Travel & Hospitality (TnH) - October 2014

www.tnhindia.in

A N D

Travel Hospitality Issue 01 | Volume VI | oCToBeR 2014 | `50

||FROM THE EDITOR || CAN OUR GOVERNMENT KEEP ITS PROMISES, FINALLY? It’s October again, which marks the beginning of another inbound tourism season in our country.

With our new government’s emphasis on tourism and its big-ticket announcements of several smart visa schemes, everyone is hoping that tourists from all over the world will throng to our country this season.

Our cover story, “Tourism Industry Expects A Buoyant Inbound Season (pg. 36) ” discusses our industries expectations in detail.

It also discusses the industry’s deep-seated fear that everything will not go as planned. It seems many tour operators are concerned that the much-awaited electronic travel authorization (ETA) or e-visa facility may not be launched in time to benefit from the current inbound season.

The worry is no-doubt legitimate.

After all, our country has a tainted history of delays in projects due to corruption and sloppy government management. Nonetheless, it’s important to stay optimistic! The way for

progress is paved because we learn from our mistakes. While what lies ahead is always a mystery, let’s hope our country has learnt its lessons and the proposed projects are completed on time.

On a slightly different note, I hope you all took part in Modi’s ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' mission. None of us can deny that it’s a bit embarrassing when our foreign friends and clients talk about the peculiar smell in India.

Especially, when they land at ChatrapatiShivaji International Airport Mumbai. Keeping the surroundings clean is an easy and effective way in which a citizen can serve his country. Besides, cleanliness is low-hanging fruit that can significantly enhance India’s image as a preferred tourist destination and all of us should do our part in this mission.

So let’s follow our PM, pick up brooms and make India clean and truly Incredible!

srishti Rai editor

Contents Publisher & Editor Srishti Rai Director Bharat S. Rai

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28

18

Managing Editor 06

IHG partners with Penfolds

08

EaseMyTrip.com produces its first Bollywood film: Hemant Madhukar’s Mumbai 125 KM

10

IATO Convention 2014 concludes on resolve to make new beginnings with fresh ideas

18

Safari Seclusion & Sunshine in Kenya

Sunny Singh

20

Tourism & Culture Sectors have never been accorded such high priority by Government: Naik

Correspondent (Mumbai)

28

Qatar Airways to start non-stop services from Doha to Phuket

30

Starwood to relocate its global headquarters to India in March 2015 for month-long immersion

32

Clarks Inn debuts at Binsar, Uttarakhand

36

Tourism industry expects a buoyant inbound season

40

Dubai Tourism conducted 5- city roadshow in India

46

In Conversation with TnH: Pascal Gauvin, COO, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG

Prem Kumar General Manager - Marketing Prem Sagar premsagar@tnhindia.com (M) +91 99106 81111

Art Director

Anand Shah Correspondent (Kolkata) Swaati Chaudhury Accounts Chander Shakher Balodi Administration Executive Sarwat Jahan

36 COVER STORY Tourism industry expects a buoyant inbound season

46 In Conversation Pascal Gauvin COO, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG

IT Executive Naveen Manchanda

For any query, write to us at: info@tnhindia.com

www.tnhindia.in

32

Printed, published and owned by srishti Rai. Printed at somsons Printing Works, 1/7, Doctor’s lane, Gole market, New Delhi - 110001, and published at P- 23/90, Connaught Circus, New Delhi 110001; editor: sRIsHTI RAI

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34

6

NEWSTODATE

IHG PARTNERS WITH PENFOLDS

great new selection of fine

InterContinental guests also can

cluding exclusive wine flights, ac-

wines to hotel dinner tables

expect exciting new programmes

cess to rare and limited wines

and bars, enhancing dining ex-

and events specially tailored for

and a bespoke wine list to match

periences across the region.

the wine connoisseur in them, in-

every dining occasion in each hotel. Hotel teams at InterContinental hotels and resorts across the region will undergo training

by Treasury Wine Estates to pro-

New Partnership Offers Guests the Chance to Explore their Wine Palettes

vide curated wine lists specifically tailored for each restaurant, bar and lounge in the property.

InterContinental Hotels & Re-

IHG has announced new part-

sorts will also have access to the

nership with global wine com-

entire portfolio of Penfolds wines

pany, Treasury Wine Estates, to

including exclusive selections

offer a premium selectionof wine

available in limited quantity.

from award-winning Australian

In addition, exclusive benefits

marque Penfolds at more than 65

such as invitations to member

InterContinental hotels and re-

only events will be open to IHG

sorts across Asia, Middle East

Rewards Club members.

and Africa (AMEA).

The collaboration will bring a

by TNH DESK

WB TOURISM TO FOCUS ON FESTIVALS & RELIGIOUS HERITAGE

W

est

Bengal

Tourism

took part in Gurgaon Travel Mart.

Govern-

ment of West Bengal has decided to participate in all major Travel Tourism Festivals spanning across India consequent upon the realization with the growing trend of

ume, genesis, and other dimen-

Tourism will be participating in

colorful festivals, West Bengal and

tourism in the domestic market

sions of the festivals This Depart-

travel festival even in B Categories

Kolkata are destinations made fa-

would ensure a prosperous econ-

ment has confirmed participation in

cities like Lucknow, Chandigarh,

mous for its cultural and religious

omy.

tourism fairs at Surat, Pune, Hyder-

Nagpur, Vizag, Coimbatore to

heritage. The Sites of Gangasagar,

In view of this changing perspec-

abad, Kochi and others apart from

reach out to the target audience in

Dakshineswar, Kalighat among

tive and thriving potentialities, West

the metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi,

a result oriented way.

many other important sites of reli-

Bengal Govt. is keen to attend in

Chennai, Ahmadabad in an as-

West Bengal Tourism will also

gious importance shall be part of

various travel and tourism shows

sertive way for ensuring better busi-

focus on its festivals and religious

the marketing plan to showcase

being conducted by various travel

ness to cater inbound travel market.

heritage. With West Bengal blessed

West Bengal in all its cultural glory.

tour organizers, irrespective of vol-

Unlike other years, West Bengal

with landmark pilgrimage sites and

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

| NEWSTODATE

GOIBIBO.COM COMPLETES 5 YEARS: CELEBRATES ITS 5TH ANNIVERSARY WITH ITS CUSTOMERS The 5-week long jubilation includes honoring its valued customers of last 5 years.

G

oibibo.com,

Besides this, on a daily basis 5

country. The business has con-

lucky online bookers will get

stantly added applications and

Rs.1000 in goCash, 5 weekly

features: Mobile apps, hotels, in-

bookers have a chance to win

ternational flights, goCash, bus

Rs.5000 in goCashon bookings

ticketing, online re-scheduling, in-

made during the week and the 5

stant refunds etc.

mega winners will win Rs.50,000

5-year stint in the market. We

in goCash on bookings made in

have carefully nurtured the brand

the 5-week period.

to help it reach its present status

Goibibo.com has captured its'

as the most popular travel web-

India’s

when Goibibo was just starting

5 year journey via an info

site in India. Our valued cus-

leading online travel

out along with a goCash gift

graphic. In the journey that

tomers have played a very

aggregator completed

voucher worth Rs. 10,000/-.

started in September 2009,

significant role in helping us

its 5 years journey. The company

Goibibo's first booker is Mr.

goibibo.com has been growing

reach this milestone. Through the

is celebrating the 5th anniversary

Sandeep Arya from Gurgaon

by more than 100%+ on a year

5-week mega celebration we

with the “Goibibo management

who works with Gartner and the

on year basis. Traffic growth as

want to demonstrate our grati-

team” meeting the first 50 book-

second is Mr. Richard Barraud

per Comscore has been 97%

tude and appreciation for their

ers in person and honoring them

from Delhi who is an Architect

year on year (August 2014),

loyalty by rewarding them with

with a certificate of appreciation

and teaches at “School of Plan-

making it the most rapidly grow-

these incredible deals and of-

for showing faith and confidence

ning and Architecture”.

ing online travel aggregator in the

fers.”

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

by TNH DESK

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8

TRADE |

language, the film is likely to be re-

EASEMYTRIP.COM PRODUCES ITS FIRST BOLLYWOOD FILMHEMANT MADHUKAR’S

leased in Tamil and Telugu as well.

While talking about this association, Hemant Madhukar says that they have joined hands because they realized that their take on movies is quite similar and wanted to make a certain kind of cinema to entertain their audiences. Nishant Pitti also seems excited about his association with Hemant Madhukar and said, “Hemant is a very talented film maker and we hope to make something fresh for our audience with this three-film deal. Our travel portal is renowned for its ex-

Nishant Pitti, CEO & Co-founder, EaseMyTrip.com, has recently signed a 3-film deal with Hemant Madhukar, son of veteran film producer & director K. Baburao.

D

cellent travel services and now, we also hope to excel in the film pro-

Nishant Pitti CEO & Co-founder EaseMyTrip.com

duction and create a space for ourselves in Bollywood as well.” Till

irector-turned-producer

working hard to make it India’s top-

ation with IRA), which has been

today, EMT was involved in promot-

Hemant Madhukar of Light

most travel agency. To offer more

presented to the company, lately.

ing movies, but this Mumbai 125

and Shadow Films met

comfort and ease to its clients,

Pitti at a Bollywood party and over

EaseMyTrip already has hired over

taken new initiates in keeping a

EaseMyTrip.com

has

always

KM is the film it is a part of.

As far as the beginning of this or-

some other meetings they get to re-

120 travel consultants for this

new approach towards travel and

ganization is concerned,

alize that their taste of films is quite

process and is planning to double

its expansion. Thus, it has taken a

started the company as Duke Travel

similar and decided to join hands to

this number in coming year. The re-

step forward in brand promotion by

Agency, where he got good ability

Pitti

make films to entertain the audi-

sult is that at just 6th year of its op-

associating as well as becoming

to understand the different dimen-

ence with a different kind of genre

eration in the year financial ending

travel partners of over 13 Bolly-

sions of the travel and tourism in-

where travel will play an important

March 2014, EaseMyTrip.com did

wood

branding

dustry. The first office was at

role in the story. The first film of this

the turnover of INR 1100 Crores.

process has taken another lift by

Karkardooma with a small team of four members and today EMT is a

movies.

This

association is the upcoming 3D

The company has a staff of over

Nishant Pitti, by signing a three-film

horror-thriller ‘Mumbai 125 KM’.

400 well-experienced staff at its

production deal with director ‘He-

well-established name in Indian

EaseMyTrip is related with this film

main head-office in Patparganj In-

mant Madhukar’. The entire shoot-

travel market and making a niche

as one of its co-producers. The

dustrial Area and it is one of the

ing of this deal’s first film “Mumbai

for itself in the country, the com-

Mumbai 125 KM (3D) film is ex-

largest retailing networks of travel

125 KM” is done using stereoscopic

pany has extended its wings by

pected to be released on October

industry with its excellent B2B and

3D cameras and the music is given

opening a branch in Bangkok in

B2C affiliated services with 35, 000

by Mani Sharma that will be one of

year 2013. The branch is new but

travel agents across India. As a re-

the major highlights of the film. The

the ambitions are the same of pro-

17, 2014.

EaseMyTrip.com was established in the year 2008 by Nishant Pitti

sult of its constant and competitive

audio of this film has already been

viding cheaper travel products with

and Rikant Pitti. This online travel

efforts, EaseMyTrip.com has been

released in August. As per Mani

excellent services. With consistent

portal provides an array of travel

getting various awards over the

Sharma, Mumbai 125 KM is the

efforts and determination, Bangkok

solutions including flight booking

years. Some of the most prominent

first film in India that has been

office of EMT is offering the best

(both domestic & international),

ones amongst them include, "Best

made with real 3D technology and

Thailand tours. As of now, this

hotel, bus bookings, car rentals and

Online Travel Company of the Year"

Dolby’s Atmos Sound system.

branch has seen a fantastic suc-

customized holiday packages (both

by Business Leadership Awards in

‘Karanvir Bohra’, ‘Veena Malik’,

cess in short span of time by pro-

domestic & international) at reason-

the year 2013, “Best Online Travel

‘Vedita Pratap Singh’, ‘Joey Debroy’

viding

able prices with excellent 24 X 7

Agency" by India Travel Awards

and ‘Aparnaa Bajpai’, are the star-

experiences to the clients and

customer support. The company is

2014 and the “Leisure & Travel

ring the film, where Veena Malik will

growing progressive technology to

managed by a well-skilled as well

eRetailer of the Year” by Industry

be playing the role of main horror

meet the ever-changing global de-

as experienced team that keeps on

Eminence Awards 2014 (in Associ-

element in the film. Along with Hindi

mands.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

memorable

travel

by TNH DESK

10

TRADE |

IATO Convention 2014 concludes on resolve to make new beginnings with fresh ideas The 30th Annual Convention of Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), held on September 4-7, 2014, at Kempinski Ambience Hotel Delhi, concluded on a very positive note. Apart from discussing the various issues concerning the travel and tourism industry of the India, IATO lauded the vision and efforts of the new government led by PM Narendra Modi to promote tourism.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

| TRADE

I

ATO at its 30th convention ex-

11

about 1,200 delegates from across

pressed its happiness over pro-

the country and from various seg-

tourism initiatives taken by the

ment of the travel and tourism in-

new government at the Centre led

dustry. The convention offered and

by PM Narendra Modi. IATO was

debated many new ideas on how to

quite happy that tourism has be-

better the tourism industry of the

come a key talking point of the cur-

country and take it to a new height.

rent policy discourse and is getting

Speaking at the inaugural session

due and much-desired attention

of the convention, Subramanian

from the new Central Government.

Swamy, Senior BJP leader and a

According to IATO, this is the new

member of Rajya Sabha, and a for-

beginning for the India travel and

mer Minister, asked the industry to

tourism industry, and now Indian

focus on the rich culture and her-

tourism industry certainly has a

itage of the country to promote

promising future.

tourism. He also exhorted industry

The convention also emphasized

to focus on neighborhood markets

the need to make new beginning in

to increase the number of foreign

terms of fresh ideas and new policy.

tourist arrivals in the country. He

The convention indeed proved to be

also calls for new tourism policy with

a platform of exchange of great and

focus on the culture and traditions

noble ideas. With its theme as ‘New

of the country such as Yoga and

Beginnings, Fresh Ideas and Vi-

Ayurveda.

brant Future’, the 30th annual con-

Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of

vention of IATO was attended by

State with Independent Charge for

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

12

TRADE |

Tourism and Culture, Govt. of India,

the government the full-support of

sion on civil aviation, Ashok Gajap-

the

pervading

high

baggage

who could not be present for the in-

IATO to realize the potential of

athi Raju Pusapati, Union Minister

charges and limits on the weight

augural ceremony of the Conven-

tourism in India, said that the Con-

for Civil Aviation, said that India has

that a tourist can carry on an air-

tion, through a video message,

vention and its deliberations would

huge potential in the aviation sector

craft, are problems being faced by

appreciated IATO for its efforts to

revitalize the industry to prepare for

with a growing middle class and in-

tourists, Pusapati informed that his

promote India as a preferred desti-

future competition. Kohli called for

creasing disposable income. He fur-

ministry are looking into these issues seriously.

nation.

replacing old ideas with new one to

ther said that the new government

In his address at the inaugural

make a new beginning in the travel

understands the role of seamless

R H Khwaja, former Tourism Sec-

session of IATO session, Subhash

and tourism industry of the country.

air connectivity in development of

retary, Govt. of India, suggested the

Major Vijay Singh Mankotia, Vice

tourism, and is committed to im-

formation of a high-level inter-minis-

provement of civil aviation infra-

terial committee on tourism headed

Goyal, President, IATO said, “We welcome the spirit of the new gov-

Chairman,

ernment led by PM Narendra Modi.

Tourism Development Corporation,

structure in the country. The Minister

by the Prime Minister on tourism-re-

The new government has given

urged the government of India to set

said that it is important that Indians

lated issues. Sarab Jit Singh, Sr.

tourism industry new hope. This is

up a dedicated body compromising

develop pride in their destinations,

VP, IATO, said that implementation

for the first time that tourism has

Himalayan states of India to develop

culture and traditions. In order to en-

of e-visa would certainly give a big

been granted such a high priority.”

tourism infrastructure in the Hi-

courage this, the government is

impetus to Inbound tourism in the

Goyal said that tourism is the only

malayan states.

keen to develop no-frill airports at

country.

Himachal

Pradesh

industry today which has potential

Ashok Chandra Panda, Minister

places where there is currently no

Speaking at the valedictory ses-

to eradicate poverty from the coun-

for Tourism & Culture, Govt. of

air connectivity, he stated. “We have

sion of the Convention, Sripad

try by creating sufficient employ-

Odisha asked the industry to adopt

to bring closer the places that are

Yesso Naik said that MoT is working

ment opportunities and income for

a ‘Look East’ policy to promote

not currently easily accessible,” he

towards

the people of the country. Rajeev

tourism in the Eastern and the

said. Pusapati also informed that

Tourism, MICE Tourism, and fast

Kohli, VP, IATO and Chairman, IATO

North-Eastern region of the India.

Government is formulating a bill on

implementation of e-visa.

Convention 2014, while assuring

Participating in a business ses-

hijacking of airplanes. Agreeing that

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

promoting

sustainable

by TNH DESK

14

TRADE |

EPIC INDIA TO MANAGE ICCO GLOBAL SUMMIT IN OCTOBER The International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO), voice of over 1700 public relations consultancies around the world, is going to host its annual ICCO Global Summit in association with Public Relations Consultants Association of India (PRCAI) at Shangri-La Eros Hotel in New Delhi on 9th and 10th October.

ROOMSXML SPONSORS EXHIBITION OF TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHS In aid of an orphanage roomsXML sponsors an exhibition of travel photographs; raises Rs 520,000

P

T

rakash Bang, the founder

of roomsXML is also pas-

sionate about photography

- especially landscapes. Whilst his

he summit is back to India

partners for the event, while The

after eight years and the

Holmes Report and Mint (business

event will be managed by

newspaper of HT Media Ltd) are on

Epic India Tours and Events. ICCO

board as Media partners.

business takes him around the

Global Summit, a unique event that

The Summit will feature many of

world, he finds the time to explore

brings together international lead-

the Asia-Pacific agency leaders

the great outdoors and capture the

ers from public relations consultan-

and international experts on the re-

nuances of various destinations he

cies around the world to explore the

gion, such as Huntsworth plc. Asia-

visits.

issues and opportunities affecting

Pacific Chairman, Bob Pickard and

Once in 4 years, he holds an ex-

the industry. It aims to unite direc-

Edelman CEO APACMEA, Robert

hibition in aid of charity. In the

tor-level and above consultants to

Holdheim. It will be attended by

month of August 2014, from 23rd

only a medium. The donors had to

spark debate, share best practice

over 150 senior practitioners from

to 25th, an exhibition was held in

give the amount directly to SO-

and strengthen PR community.

PR firms of India and across the

Pune in aid of Shrivatsa, an or-

FOSH. And I would gift them the

India, country with such a robust

phanage managed by the Society

picture-frame they liked. The re-

and rapidly growing PR industry

Francis Ingham, ICCO Chief Ex-

of Friends of Sassoon Hospitals.

sponse has been more than en-

with a firm commitment and proven

ecutive, said: “We are delighted to

On display were 52 exclusive and

couraging."

world.

success in leading PR thinking in

partner with Epic India Tours and

duly

The exhibition was very well

ethical, creative and effective way,

Events for an opportunity to host

mounted, framed and signed by

covered by the media. Despite

will become the only Asian country

our Summit in India, a country with

Prakash.

heavy rains in the evening; people

to host this summit twice.

such a vibrant and fast-growing PR

unpublished

pictures,

Says Prakash, "There was a

from all walks of life came in - in-

Entitled “New markets. New Busi-

logic to display 52 images. My re-

cluding many from the travel indus-

ness. New PR”, the 2014 Summit

Pankaj Malhotra, Director, Epic

quest was a donation of Rs 21,000

try.

will seek to explore opportunities for

India Tours and Events, says, “Our

and communications industry.”

per image.The amount would take

Good to know that Prakash logs

PR in emerging markets across the

role involves ideation, planning, ex-

care of meals of 65 orphans and

his travel on his blog named

Asia-Pacific regions, as well as

ecution and overall management of

destitute children for a week at

www.YoGoYo.com. To build their

highlight the latest PR best practice

the entire event. We are more than

Shrivatsa. If am able to find 52

travel websites and brochures, the

in the areas of creativity, innovation,

glad to partner with ICCO and

donors; I would have taken care of

Travel Agents only need to ask for

digital convergence and client-

PRCAI once again for the success-

the images and the content they

agency relationships. MSLGroup

ful fulfillment of their event needs.

like.

and DTA Consulting are the gold

the less fortunate for a year!"

Prakash further adds, "I was

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

by TNH DESK

16

TRADE / GOVERNMENT

FICCI GOLF TOURISM SUMMIT TO PROMOTE INDIA AS A GOLF TOURISM DESTINATION First of its kind in India, FICCI Golf Tourism Summit is being held on October 8-10, 2014 in New Delhi with an aim to promote golf tourism in the country.

❖

BY PREM KUMAR

T

he event is supported and guided

by

Ministry

WB TOURISM LINES UP A STRING OF INITIATIVES The West Bengal government has firmly decided to focus on development of tourism and has lined up a string of initiatives to enhance tourism development in the state.

25th Travel and Tourism Fair

Bengal has a long coastline lined

was held recently in Kolkata with

with casuarina forests and prides

the presence of nine global na-

in having India’s richest biodiver-

tions and 28 Indian states.

sity - the mangrove forests of

of

Inaugurating the fair, Bratya

Tourism and India Golf

Basu, Minister-in-Charge, De-

Sundarbans.

West

Bengal

Tourism has tourist bungalows in

Tourism Association (IGTA). “The main aim of FICCI Golf Tourism

Bratya Basu Minister-in-charge, Department of Tourism, West Bengal

Summit is to promote India as a golf tourism destination and create awareness by inviting the leading golf tour operators from all over the world,” said Rajan Sehgal, President, India Golf Tourism Association, who is also the chairman of the Northern Region of Travel Agents Association

Rajan Sehgal President, India Golf Tourism Association

“

of India (TAAI - NR) According to Sehgal, FICCI Golf Tourism Summit has invited the professionals who will present India a great golf destination with other attractions of India. “FICCI Golf Tourism summit is the first of its kind in India and its main ob-

“At the same time, we are trying to boost the local indigenous art like Chhau dance of Purulia and Baul songs of Bolpur in Shantiniketan,” partment of Tourism, West Bengal explained, “Tourism has

The golf industry in India growing fast with signature golf courses of international standards from Jammu and Kashmir to deep South and Indian professionals playing in famous golf tournaments and represent as ambassadors of India and do lots of promotion, but we are still lacking in terms of infrastructure, connectivity and marketing compared to other Asian countries.

emerged as a theory that defines the likes of culture and spiritual inclination of travellers and the way we look at our environment and society. The travel mart

Big tourism projects of WB Govt •Developing Gajoldoba into eco-tourism hub in Jalpaiguri district.

•To make Jharkhali an ecotourism destination in sundarbans.

•stressing on circuit tourism in Purulia.

• Focusing on Jhargram ecotourism project in West midnapore.

•Promoting ethnic art of Bengal like Chhau dance and Baul songs.

golf courses, hotels and golf re-

“

serves as a convenient platform

standards from Jammu and Kash-

tional harmony and all-round

sorts. The golf media has also

mir to deep South and Indian pro-

growth of the country. West Ben-

been also invited,” informed Seh-

fessionals playing in famous golf

gal shares three international

“We have taken up a string of

gal. Around 43 foreign golf tour

tournaments and represent as

frontiers- Bangladesh, Nepal and

projects based on public-private

operators and golf media and a

ambassadors of India and do lots

Bhutan. The lust verdant forests

partnership (PPP) model like

large numbers of Indian golf tour

of

Sehgal,

of Dooars, the Royal Bengal tiger

Gajoldoba in the district of Jal-

operators, golf courses, hotels

adding, “But we are still lacking in

of Sundarbans and the Darjee-

paiguri, Jharkhali in Sundarbans,

jective is to create right platform for golf tourism by inviting the leading golf tour operators from various parts of the world for arranged pre-structured meetings with Indian golf tour operators,

promotion,”

said

for travel groups, hospitality setups, MICE, inbound and outbound tourists. Tourism is one of the key global industries that is labour-intensive, offers a boost to local attributes, provides interna-

30 locations in the state.”

The tourism minister informed,

and resorts will be participating in

terms of infrastructure, connectiv-

ling Himalayan Railway declared

Jhargram eco-tourism project in

the event. “The golf industry in

ity and marketing compared to

as a World Heritage Site offer

West Midnapore and circuit

India is growing fast with signa-

other Asian countries.”

glorious experiences to tourists.

tourism in Purulia.”

ture golf courses of international

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

by TNH DESK

18

DESTINATION |

SAFARI SECLUSION & SUNSHINE Kenya the Ideal Honeymoon Destination

K

enya is a very romantic country and

an ideal honeymoon destination to

celebrate your love and begin your

life’s journey together. Iconic wildlife, epic

landscapes, ancient wonders, and an incredible variety of cultures that have intrigued intrepid adventurers for centuries!

However, this vast and beautiful continent also has its sweet side, and it's a perfect place for newlyweds looking to experience the ultimate romantic getaway. A honeymoon, after all, is an once-in-a-lifetime affair, so why not make it unforgettable. From a candle-lit desert oasis to a dreamy tropical archipelago, Kenya has a wide variety to offer to its honeymooners.

Whether it’s spotting the real-life cast of the Lion King, exploring a big city, or lazing around on some of the best unspoiled beaches in the world, Kenya’s got every honeymooner’s wish list covered.

Honeymooners who are looking for a more adventurous honeymoon will love Kenya's Maasai Mara National Park. The Masai Mara, one of Kenya's most popular parks, is home to a stunning variety of animals including the famous "Big 5" of the African grasslands and serves as the backdrop to the world's most awe-inspiring animal migration. Beyond the wildlife and

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

| DESTINATION

unique local culture, couples can also re-

water. The best way to appreciate the

serve stays at some of the more luxurious

beauty of this region is on the lake itself.

bush camps and spend their evenings sip-

Enjoy a drink with your partner as the sun

ping exotic drinks riverside or taking an al-

goes down. Indulge in conversation with

fresco shower while the sun sets over the

your spouse under the relaxing embers of

countryside. You can have plush or rustic

a campfire. Listen to the sounds of ani-

accommodations as you wish and almost

mals in the forest as darkness falls on the

all camps and small lodges have a "hon-

graceful plains like a blanket.

eymoon tent" or "honeymoon suite" lo-

One of the real joys is to spend a night

cated in a way to ensure maximum

sleeping out under the stars with your

privacy.

partner. Yes it can come true only in

When you are in Maasai Mara, there is

Kenya. Placed on a high wooden platform,

no better way to start the day than rising

with a private bathroom under a thatched

gently above the plains in a hot air balloon.

roof, star bed is wheeled out from under

As you ascend, dawn begins to creep over

the thatch to make your night one of the

the horizon, illuminating the landscape in

most memorable. The sounds of Africa are

an ethereal light and setting the scene as

all around you. You look up into a huge

the animals begin to stir and a new day

starry sky and are lulled to sleep to the

begins. As you float in the air you will have

distant call of the leopard. It offers the hon-

a bird's eye view of the wildlife. Hour-long

eymooners privacy and serenity as they

excursions set off at dawn and end with

enjoy the nature’s wonders around them.

champagne breakfasts. This incredible

Loisaba Wilderness is an outstandingly

once in a lifetime experience offers fantas-

beautiful

tic view of Kenya's scenic splendour.

Whether sleeping under the undisturbed

with

its

abundant

wildlife.

At Kenya’s Western frontier lays the

African night sky on our unique Star Beds,

great expanse of Lake Victoria. This mas-

rafting down the majestic Ewaso Ngiro

sive lake, commonly known as Nyanza, is

and Ng'are Narok Rivers or watching

twice the size of Wales. The destination

Africa’s best wildlife stroll past on a game

carries magic to spice up your married life.

drive, a visit to Loisaba will revive your

Enjoy breathtaking views and the natural

mind, rejuvenate your body and revitalize

beauty of the surrounding. The sun shines

your soul.

brightly, and gentle breezes rise from the

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

by TNH DESK

19

20

GOVERNMENT |

‘TOURISM & CULTURE SECTORS HAVE NEVER BEEN ACCORDED SUCH HIGH PRIORITY BY THE GOVERNMENT’ Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism and Culture spoke on initiatives, achievements and policies of both the ministries under his charge.

“T

here has never been a time when

the Tourism and Culture Sectors have been accorded such high pri-

ority by the Government of India. For the first time these sectors have found a special mention in the Prime Minister’s Independence Day Speech. The Hon’ble Prime Minister is a firm believer in the significant role of culture and tourism in the economic and political growth of the country. The Hon’ble Prime Minister entrusted me with the charge of both Culture and Tourism Ministries so that the synergy between

“Both my ministries have been working in coordination in a number of areas such as conservation and protection of heritage sites, which enriches the experience of tourists and in turn increases tourist visits and repeat visits. Many initiatives have been started by both the ministries.”

Shripad Yesso Naik Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism and Culture announced. Tourism Ministry is upgrading its official website and has also begun work on translating it into eight international languages. Various

the two Ministries can be used for the holistic

services for the industry like hotel classification

development of tourism industry at the same

and recognition of tour operators and travel

time promoting our culture and preserving her-

agents are now online.

itage sites,” said Minister of State (Independent

to work together signifying a ‘co-branding’ exer-

Charge) for Tourism and Culture Shripad Yesso

cise under the Incredible India umbrella and have

Naik at a press conference on Initiatives,

jointly organized Festivals of India and Road

Achievements and Policies of MoT and Ministry

Shows for example, in China and in all the Festi-

of Culture.

vals organized by the Ministry of Culture. India

“Both my ministries have been working in co-

Tour Operators are being encouraged to encash

ordination in a number of areas such as conser-

on the interest in India created by these Festivals.

vation and protection of heritage sites, which

On its part the Ministry of Tourism has played an

enriches the experience of the tourists and in

active role in promoting abroad cuisine from dif-

turn increases tourist visits and repeat visits.

ferent parts of the country.

Many initiatives have been started by both the

“Both my ministries are laying special empha-

Ministries and a number of positive achieve-

sis in digitalizing the available data and

ments have been made. Rani ki Vav (Gujarat)

processes. As you will see I will be e-launching a

and the Great Himalayan National Park (H.P.)

new website and a logo of the Ministry of Culture,

were inscribed on the World Heritage List in

mobile applications giving details of cultural ac-

June this year. Such inclusion generally guaran-

tivities being organized by the various cultural in-

tees an increase in international footfalls,” said

stitutions. We are also starting facilities for online

Naik.

filing of applications pertaining to various

The project ‘MAUSAM’, ‘Maritime Routes and

schemes of the Ministries of Culture and Tourism.

Cultural Landscapes’ has also been launched.

Ministry of Culture has also become active on so-

This new initiative of Ministry of Culture in itself

cial media platforms,” said Naik. He added that

is expected to enhance tourism as well as pro-

both ministries under his charge have been put-

mote India’s soft power.

ting into use technology for service delivery to the

Both Ministries have also taken the initiative

stakeholders. Electronic Visa on Arrival has been

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

by TNH DESK

Initiatives & achievements of MoT & Ministry of Culture •2015 will be celebrated as the Year of China in India and 2016 will be celebrated as the Year of India in China.

•Ministry of Culture has circulated a draft MoU to all the State Governments with a view to ensuring hassle free movement and in providing quality services in and around various ASI sites.

•MoT is developing Buddhist Circuit.

• Ministry of Culture is organising Buddhist Festivals in East Asia.

•Rs. 100 crores has been allocated to ASI for preservation of archaeological sites.

•Development of new tourist circuits.

22

HOSPITALITY |

MOSAIC HOTEL NOIDA OFFERS A IDYLLIC VARIETY TO ALL ITS GUESTS Mosaic Hotel, Noida is fully-fitted with amenities and technology to gratify all the business needs of the corporate travellers.

T

he hotel offers 48 well-ap-

mendations is another unique fea-

rate belts of expressway and Sec 55

pointed business rooms in

ture.

to 63 are 7 km and 9 km proximity.

Deluxe,

Mosaic Noida is located at 27 km

We are also in the near vicinity of

Club and Suite. Talking about USP of

three categories:

from the IGI Airport. New Delhi Rail-

other corporate belts like Mohan Co-

Mosaic Hotel, Harjeet Wasan, VP-

way station is 14 km from the hotel.

operative Industrial Area, Okhla,

Tux Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., said, “Mo-

The nearest Metro Station, Sector

Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Nehru Place

saic Hotels is a full-service designer

and New Friends Colony,” said

boutique hotel located in the heart of

Wasan.

Noida, which provides an idyllic vari-

Leisure and Shopping Centre is

ety for all its guests. Being a principal

next door at 100 meters with known

corporate destination, the hotel is

Indian and international brands, In-

fully fitted with amenities and technol-

dian handicrafts and international

ogy to gratify all the business needs

goods. The Great India Place, one of

of the corporate travellers.” Mosaic

the biggest Malls in the NCR and

boasts of state-of-the-art conferenc-

Amusement centre, is walking dis-

ing and banqueting facilities with top

tance from the hotel. “As we are lo-

of line audio-visual equipment in dif-

cated in the hub of business activities

ferent seating arrangements under

we are preferred destination for cor-

the brand name of Summit, for the

porate lunches,” said Wasan, adding

varied social event in the neighbour-

Harjeet Wasan

that to promote the hotel, “we con-

hood. Mosaic has in offer, excellent

VP Tux Hospitality Private limited

centrate on three to four social media

specialized Food & Beverage outlets,

channel and are attentive to those.

namely; Latitude – Indian Specialty

18, Noida is 100 meters from the

Facebook and Twitter are our first pri-

Restaurant, Flluid- the Lounge Bar,

hotel.

ority and are also obligatory for most

and MLounge – The Pastry Shop.

“Apart from the hotel being posi-

of the boutique hotel, Google+ is also

The chef’s interaction with the guests

tioned in the business and shopping

a smart choice for the promotion and

for ordering the food and his recom-

sphere of Sector-18, the key corpo-

we are also in to it.”

by TNH DESK

INTERGLOBE ENTERPRISES IHG REWARDS CLUB ANNOUNCES 'INTO THE OPENS DOORS TO ITS BOUTIQUE DINING CONCEPT NIGHTS’ PROMOTION NOOBA AT GOLF COURSE ROAD IN GURGAON IHG Rewards Club members can

earn at least two free nights, 50,000 IHG Rewards Club bonus points or

T

Candlewood Suites Hotels and

EVEN Hotels.

“We strive to create relevant and

he restaurant offers the sig-

the guests have an extensive range

10,000 bonus miles.

‘Into the

rewarding travel experiences for our

nature Nooba experience –

of noodles & rice dishes to choose

Nights’ promotion offers IHG Re-

loyal guests. This promotion pro-

authentic

fare,

from. Nooba has been conceptual-

wards Club members their choice

vides an even greater opportunity

paired with wines and spirits, ele-

ized as a boutique dining restaurant

of IHG Rewards Club bonus points,

for our members to further enjoy

gant décor and an informal setting.

serving authentic Chinese cuisine

bonus airline miles or free nights at

our portfolio of hotel brands around

The restaurant is testament to the

with a stylish and contemporary

any IHG-branded hotel anywhere in

the world,” said Bruce Lahood, vice

success of the brand and compli-

ambience. Speaking on the occa-

the world including InterContinental

president, Global Loyalty Con-

ments InterGlobe Enterprises’ ex-

sion,

Aditya Bhaskar, GM said,

Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza

sumer Marketing, IHG. “We are re-

quisite offerings like the award

"We are delighted to announce the

Hotels & Resorts, Hotel Indigo Ho-

ally excited to reward our members

winning L’Angoor and China Club

launch of our second Nooba restau-

tels, Holiday Inn Hotels, Holiday Inn

with what’s most important to them

restaurants.

rant in Gurgaon With elegant interi-

Resort Hotels, Holiday Inn Club Va-

– IHG Rewards Club bonus points,

The word "Nooba" originates

ors, attentive service and exquisite

cations, Holiday Inn Express Ho-

bonus airline miles or free nights.”

from the word noodle bar, where

delicacies from China." by TNH DESK

tels, Stay bridge Suites Hotels,

Chinese

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

by TNH DESK

26

AVIATION |

AIRASIA BIG LOYALTY PROGRAMME PARTNERS WITH HILTON HHONORS FOR INDIA DEBUT Hilton HHonors and AirAsia BIG announce strategic alliance to offer travellers more ways to earn rewards

H

tels and timeshare properties within

gional carrier’s loyalty programme

the Hilton Portfolio around the

which rewards our Hilton HHonors

globe.

members with twice the number of

“The low-cost carrier sector, par-

BIG Points. We are pleased to be

ticularly in Asia, is experiencing

working with a partner that has the

strong growth with massive de-

experience and standing of AirAsia

mand

fast-growing

to offer members more options to

economies and rising intra-regional

earn HHonors Points and BIG

travel", said Mark Weinstein, vice

Points that can be used to create

president, Commercial Services

memorable travel experiences".

driven

by

ilton HHonors, the loyalty

loyalty programmes. The partner-

Strategy, Loyalty Programs & Part-

With this partnership, members

programme

for

Hilton

ship allows members of both AirA-

nerships, Hilton Worldwide. "We

of both programmes can earn 10

Worldwide’s

11

distinct

sia BIG Loyalty Programme and

continue to build upon our pioneer-

HHonors Base Points plus two BIG

hotel brands, recently announced

Hilton HHonors to earn BIG Points

ing spirit in being the first global

Points for every U.S. dollar spent

entering into a partnership with

and HHonors Points when they stay

hospitality company to form a

during their stay at any hotel in the

AirAsia BIG, one of Asia’s leading

at any of the more than 4,200 ho-

strategic alliance with a key re-

Hilton Portfolio.

connections over the international

guests. With the seamless connec-

gateways

and

tions offered by this arrangement, we

The codeshare flights are on sale

see a further increase in demand for

from 1st August, 2014, for travel

business and tourist travel between

starting 4thAugust, 2014.

India and Vietnam.”

VIETNAM AIRLINES AND JET AIRWAYS SIGNS CODESHARE AGREEMENT Guests from India to enjoy seamless connectivity to Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi from Singapore and Bangkok gateways.

of

Singapore

Bangkok.

by TNH DESK

are confident that this codeshare will

According to Gaurang Shetty, Sr.

“This agreement is a demonstra-

VP – Commercial, Jet Airways, “This

tion of the value of the partnership

new partnership between Jet Air-

between Vietnam Airlines and our

keting code on Vietnam Airlines’

ways and Vietnam Airlines illustrates

strategic partner in India. We shall

carrier of Vietnam, and Jet

flights from Bangkok and Singapore

our Group’s strategic positioning that

make all possible effort to maximize

Airways have entered into a

to Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. In turn,

continuously strengthens our offer

the opportunities offered to our com-

V

ietnam Airlines, the national

reciprocal codeshare agreement to

Vietnam Airlines will place its mar-

between India and the rest of the

bined network in order to bring the

offer guests enhanced connectivity

keting code on Jet Airways’ services

world by developing our network. We

most convenience to our valued cus-

and seamless access when travel-

between Bangkok to Mumbai, Delhi,

are delighted to announce a code-

tomers who travel from India to Viet-

ling throughout the combined net-

Singapore to Mumbai, Delhi and

share partnership with Vietnam Air-

nam via Bangkok/Singapore and

works of both airlines.

Chennai. The codeshare will provide

lines as it will further strengthen the

vice versa”, said Duong Tri Thanh –

Under the codeshare arrange-

more choice for guests between

global network of both airlines and

VP, Vietnam Airlines.

ment, Jet Airways will place its mar-

India and Vietnam, with convenient

provide increased benefits to all our

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

by TNH DESK

30

HOSPITALITY |

STARWOOD TO RELOCATE ITS GLOBAL HEADQUARTERS TO INDIA IN MARCH 2015 FOR MONTH-LONG IMMERSION Betting big on India, international hospitality giant Starwood Hotels & Resorts’ announcement to relocate its global headquarters to India in March 2015 for monthlong immersion reinforces the company’s belief in the opportunities the region provides.

S

tarwood Hotels & Resorts

Worldwide, Inc. has announced that it will relocate

its global headquarters from the

United States to India in March 2015 for a month-long immersion. Frits van Paasschen, President & CEO of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and the company’s top executives will split their time between Mumbai and Delhi, conducting day-to-day business from this important global des-

Frits van Paasschen

tination with immense potential for

President & Ceo, starwood Hotels & Resorts

outbound travel. Following the company’s successful relocations to

2030. We all know of India as a

Starwood executives from around

Starwood is seeing many new

China in 2011 and Dubai in 2013,

hotbed of technological innovation

the globe will conduct business in

growth opportunities unfold.

this third leadership move under-

and global services. Coupled with

India, nearly 8,000 miles and 10

Van Paasschen added: “With

scores Starwood’s unique approach

the rise in entrepreneurship and in-

time zones away from the com-

South Asia as our home base, we’ll

to cultivating a global culture and

vestment, millions of people are join-

pany’s Stamford, Connecticut head-

be within a five-hour flight from

fostering relationships in key growth

ing its middle class every year. And,

quarters. During the month, the

nearly 40% of our global pipeline for

markets.

“Global trends are revolutionizing travel. Rapidly growing markets and a more interconnected world are bringing high-end travelers to new markets like never before,” said van Paasschen. “As a company with operations in over 100 countries, we at Starwood know that there is no sub-

Starwood’s month-long immersion in India in March 2015 •CEO and senior leadership team to conduct day-to-day business out of India •Announcement reflects the strategic relevance of South Asia as Starwood’s 3rd largest market •Following insightful relocations to China in 2011 & Dubai in 2013, the move will bring the company closer to owners, associates, guests and customers in a key growth region

stitute for witnessing firsthand this huge transformation.”

new hotels. This includes major cities as well as some of the world’s most remote and untouched destinations. As we look at these growth markets, we will explore how we create opportunities for the thousands of people who will enter the global workforce through Starwood. We will also work to find ways for humans to coexist with nature while

of course, this means millions of

team will travel to cities throughout

preserving it.”

van Paasschen continued: “This is

new travelers. At the same time,

India to meet with associates, cus-

Starwood’s legacy in India dates

a particularly exciting time for us to

India is both unique and immensely

tomers, owners and prospective de-

back to 1973 with the debut of its

relocate to India. Its renewed focus

diverse. Our extended time there

velopers,

Bangalore,

Sheraton brand in Mumbai. Star-

including

on travel infrastructure is much

will allow us to immerse ourselves

Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, and

wood has consolidated its lead as

needed, as travel demand is fueled

and appreciate new approaches to

Kochi, and also throughout South

the largest high-end global operator

by economic growth and a popula-

the business of hospitality.”

Asia to Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka,

in India with a strong footprint.

tion expected to overtake China by

Over the course of the relocation,

Bangladesh and Maldives where

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

by TNH DESK

32

HOSPITALITY |

CLARKS INN DEBUTS AT BINSAR, UTTARAKHAND

markets like Bareilly, Haldwani

tions as potential new market to

and Deoghar among others and

expand our footprints and pro-

placing them firmly on the tourism

mote not just our properties but also the destination. Binsar is the

Hospitality major Clarks Inn Group of Hotels recently opened its first hill-station property, Clarks Inn Binsar, in the picturesque surrounding of Binsar in Almora district of Uttarakhand.

❖ B PREM KUMAR Y

T

The hotel provides 27 well-ap-

he 39-key hill-top resort is

pointed rooms and six tastefully

the 27th operational prop-

done

erty of the hotel company

aimed at the well-travelled FIT

and its first such at a hill-station in

and corporate segments looking

two-bedroom

cottages,

India. Located at one of the high-

to explore new and virgin destina-

est point in Binsar at over 6,000

tions as well as niche segments

feet above the sea-level in the

like honeymooners.

Clarks Inn Binsar •Clarks Inn Binsar is the first hill-station property of Clarks Inn. •Binsar is a picturesque hill-station in Almora district of Uttarakhand.

•The resort has 27 rooms and six elegantly done two-bedroom cottages.

first feather in our cap and perfectly fits the strategic development plan that the Clarks Inn Group of Hotel envisions,” said Nihit Srivastava, Regional Director - Business Development, Clarks Inn Group of Hotels. Clraks Inn has significant presence in Delhi NCR, Pune, Bengaluru, Agra, Jaipur, Goa and Lucknow to name a few.

“With

and hospitality map of India. We

Nainital

being

over-

crowded and full of city-like

quaint and sylvan surrounding of

“Clarks Inn has significant pres-

have been the pioneers in open-

chaos, there is great demand of

tall Alpine and Deodar forest, the

ence in various tier-I cities all over

ing new markets and destinations

new destinations in the Kumaon

hotel offers breathtaking view of

the country and also wears the

and promoting them successfully.

region of Uttarakhand. Binsar is

the snow-clad Himalayas ranges.

distinction of opening several new

We have now identified hill-sta-

the perfect place to fill that gap

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

| HOSPITALITY

and offer visitors the serenity and

erty, we see this as the perfect

peace the people visit a hill-station

marriage. The alliance will drive

for. It’s quaint, serene, away from

better guest traffic to the property

the city and hundred percent nat-

and also help promote the desti-

ural. We would like to open this

nation in the national and interna-

property to FITs and honeymoon-

tional markets.”

ers as well as drive corporate and

The Alpine and Deodar draped

incentive traffic. This is a great

Clarks Inn Binsar is also a great

property in the best of destina-

place for outdoor meetings, con-

tions,” said Nitin Srivastava, Gen-

ferences, banquettes. The hotel

eral Manager - Sales & Marketing,

offer state-of-the-art conference

Clarks Inn Group of Hotels.

halls for 100 and 60 pax respec-

Also speaking on the occasion of

tively. Claks Inn’s multi-cuisine sig-

the launch of the hotel, Amarjeet

nature restaurant brand ‘The Delhi

Singh, Owner of Clarks Inn Binsar,

Diners’ will be an all-day dining

said, “Clarks Inn is a renowned

catering to guests’ penchant for In-

brand

footprint,

dian and international as well as

with

national

whereas Binsar is a pristine and

local cuisines. Café Bar will offer

unexplored destination of great

an array services including tea,

potential. With Clarks Inn taking

coffee and mock tails.

over the management of this prop-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

33

34

TRADE |

ASSOCHAM TO SET UP ‘BUDDHIST TOURISM PROMOTION CENTRE’ ASSOCHAM has made certain recommendations to Shripad Yesso Naik, Union Minister of State (I/C) for Tourism & Culture, for the promotion of the Buddhist tourism circuit. As per the recommendations of ASSOCHAM, Infrastructure, IT and Skill development are key to success of the Buddhist tourism circuit. ASSOCHAM made the recommendations at ‘The International Meet on Buddhist Tourism’ organised recently by it at Hotel ITC Maurya, Sadar Patel Marg, New Delhi .

ith development of

W

Buddhist Circuit. The development of

cially Women, must be accorded ut-

the tourism sector

this hub alone, into a world class

most priority; a point re-iterated by

• India’s rich Buddhist heritage

accorded priority by

tourism centre is expected to fuel a

Hon’ble Tourism Minister at the “Na-

should also be made more accessi-

the Government, it

sizeable, 15% annual growth in the

tional Conference of State Tourism

ble to tourists through such programs

is imperative that the immense po-

Tourism industry of the Buddhist cir-

Ministers”, recently, on 21st Aug.

tential of the Buddhist Tourism Circuit

cuit.”

• This is also extremely important

last decade in Korea

3)Collaboration with International Agencies - The Government under

is harnessed. According to AS-

In its recommendation to the Union

for “Enhancing the visitor Experi-

the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Min-

SOCHAM, the Sarnath-Bodh Gaya

Tourism Minister, ASSOCHAM has

ence” –One of the strategies outlined

ister Shri Narendra Modi has collab-

by the Government.

patch alone is expected to fuel a size-

highlighted a few focus areas that

able 15% annual growth in the

can be collectively realized in order

2)India should look to replicate

Japan International Cooperation

Tourism industry. “Towards the fast

to provide significant boost to this crit-

successful ideas / initiatives from

Agency etc., primarily for Infrastruc-

track growth of the Tourism in the

ical sector. These focus areas are:

other countries:

country, it is an imperative that we

1)

orated with the World Bank - IFC,

ture development of Buddhist Circuit.

Infrastructure Development

• Republic of Korea’s ‘Temple Stay’

We must continue to reach out to

must harness the potential of Bud-

- The Landmark infrastructure proj-

Programme provides a unique op-

such valuable international agencies

dhist Tourism Circuit. Today, Buddhist

ects, such as the proposed Kushina-

portunity to domestic & international

for other areas including Skill Devel-

Tourism has the potential to shape

gar International Airport, will provide

tourists to experience Korean Bud-

opment, Brand Building, and Involve-

the contours of India's cultural diplo-

a great boost to the tourist traffic

dhism, its lifestyle & rituals.

ment of local communities.

macy as we engage with our part-

• We must ensure that this project

ners in East and South East Asia

is completed in time to leverage it ef-

regions. The Buddhist Circuit is not

fectively for Increasing the Interna-

only an important pilgrimage destina-

tional & domestic Tourist Flow

tion for the 450 million practicing Bud-

• Further, it is important to develop

dhists, but also for the vast number of

the ancillary infrastructure esp. visitor

• It entails staying at a traditional Buddhist

temple

and engage in daily

monastic

activities.

This

programme has

other travelers interested in history,

amenities like Tourist Information

had more than

culture or religion,” said Rana Kapoor,

Centers / Contact Cen-

850,000 partici-

President, ASSOCHAM and MD &

ters. PPP mode will be

CEO, YES BANK. He added, “The

integral to carry forward

Buddhist pilgrimage not only brings

required infrastructure

in large volume of tourists, but foreign

upgrades.

exchange as well to our shores. As such, the development of this sector

by TNH DESK

pants in the

• Moreover, we need to

ensure

tourist

has been accorded priority by the

friendly, fair & depend-

Central Government in its first budget

able,

transportation

itself with Union Finance Minister,

across other modes as

Arun Jaitley, focusing on the develop-

well. Needless to say,

ment of Sarnath-Bodh Gaya patch of

safety of tourists, espe-

(From L to R): Shripad Yesso Naik, MoS (I/C) for Tourism & Culture and Rana Kapoor, President, ASSOCHAM and MD & CEO, YES BANK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

36

COVER STORY |

Prashant Narayan, COO & Head, Leisure Travel Inbound Business, Thomas Cook India & TCI

“Tourist footfalls in 2014 have shown an upward trend. The new government’s pro-tourism intent is indeed encouraging to the tourism industry as a whole.”

Neelu Singh, COO, Ezeego1.com

Sandeep Dwivedi, Chief Commercial Officer, ITQ

E M Najeeb, Chairman, ATE Group of Companies

“India’s total foreign tourist arrivals in 2013 stood at 6.84 million, which was lower than our expectation. However, we are expecting revival of economic climate in key markets, which will help the industry. Further, depreciation of the rupee is likely to boost inbound tourism in 2014-15.”

“e-visa across nine airports in India is likely to encourage global tourism in India. The Indian travel and tourism industry is expected to grow by 7.3 per cent this year, thus outperforming the general economy by 2.5 per cent.”

“The coming tourism season would surely be an upbeat one as there have been enough efforts and thrust for its growth from all corners including the government. There is definitely an increase of close to 5 per cent every year in the FTAs compared to the previous year.”

TOURISM INDUSTRY EXPECTS A BUOYANT INBOUND SEASON With the government of India according high priority to the development of tourism in the country, the travel and tourism industry hopes that number of foreign tourist arrivals in the country would see significant growth in the new inbound tourism season.

❖ B PREM KUMAR Y

the upcoming inbound season.”

year. India is determined to promote

Sandeep Dwivedi, Chief Com-

qualitative tourism projecting its rich

mercial Officer, InterGlobe Technol-

culture and nature. Much focus is

ogy Quotient (ITQ) said, “The

falling on infrastructure develop-

initiative to introduce e-visa across

ments like roads, airports, ports,

nine airports in India is likely to en-

etc,” said Najeeb.

courage global tourism in India. The

“The buzz is definitely more pos-

Indian travel and tourism industry is

itive. The new season is now upon

expected to grow by 7.3 per cent this

us and we hope the buzz will trans-

year, thus outperforming the general

late into positive sales,” said Rajeev

countries, enhanced infrastructure,

economy by 2.5 per cent. With the

Kohli, Joint Managing Director, Cre-

Economic recovery in key source

and a number of hotels with excel-

help of the Airport Authority of India

ative Travel & Vice-President, IATO.

markets is also going to help aug-

lent facilities are expected to further

and Public-Private Partnerships, de-

Pronab Sarkar, Managing Direc-

ment foreign tourist arrivals in the

contribute towards developing new

velopment is also likely to take place

tor, Swagatam Tours & Hony. Secre-

country. Speaking about expectation

tourism hubs.”

in tier I and tier II cities, thus boost-

tary, IATO, said, “We are hopeful that

ing the inbound tourism in India.”

in all circumstances this coming

from this inbound season, Prashant

Neelu

Singh,

COO,

Narayan, COO & Head Leisure

Ezeego1.com, said, “India’s total for-

According to E M Najeeb, Chair-

season will be a better one compar-

Travel Inbound Business, Thomas

eign tourist arrivals in 2013 stood at

man, ATE Group of Companies, the

ing the last year. The economic situ-

Cook India and TCI said, “Tourist

6.84 million, which was lower than

coming tourism season would surely

ation in Europe and America is also

footfalls in 2014 have shown an up-

our expectation. However, we are

be an upbeat one as there have

improving, therefore, it is expected

ward trend. The new government’s

expecting revival of economic cli-

been enough efforts and thrust for

that we shall get better numbers this

pro-tourism intent is indeed encour-

mate in key markets, which will help

its growth from all corners including

year.”

aging to the tourism industry as a

the industry. Further, depreciation of

the government. “The new govern-

Arun Anand, Managing Director,

whole. The initiatives by the new-

the rupee is likely to boost inbound

ment’s strategic economic policy

Midtown Travels, said, “The tourist

government with regards to their pi-

tourism in 2014-15. Moreover, the

among its 5Ts has included tourism

season looks good because of the

oneering

visible focus of this year’s Union

as one of the economic drivers.

image of India. All the hotels and

support

towards

the

state-of-the-art airports now at par

Budget has been to position India as

There is definitely an increase of

other suppliers are supporting by

with international standards, ex-

an attractive tourist destination, thus

close to 5 per cent every year in the

maintaining the same rates as last

pected e-visas for a large number of

creating a window of opportunity for

FTAs compared to the previous

winter. The tour operators are pro-

| COVER STORY

37

Pronab Sarkar, MD, Swagatam Tours & Hony. Secretary, IATO

Rajeev Kohli, Joint MD, Creative Travel & VP, IATO

Arun Anand, MD, Midtown Travels

Capt. Swadesh Kumar, MD, Shikhar Travels India & VC, ICPB

“We are hopeful that in all circumstances this coming season will be a better one comparing the last year. The economic situation in europe and America is also improving, therefore, it is expected that we shall get better numbers this year.”

“We need an aggressive and positive PR campaign. India has not done any concrete marketing overseas for a few years now. We also need to have a more positive spin on our image.”

“The tourist season looks good because of the image of India.

All the hotels and other suppliers are supporting by maintaining the same rates as last winter. The Tour operators are promoting India in a big way.

But our biggest problem is the issuance of Indian Visa.”

“What we really need is a positive image of the country especially women’s safety and easy visa rules and hassle free travel in the country which are some of the priorities.”

moting India in a big way. But our

ing in and we hope this will continue.

some of the key source markets like

Ravi Gosain, Managing Director,

biggest problem is the issuance of

Fortunately, there are many trav-

Japan, China and now the US! We

Erco Travels & Hony. Joint Secretary,

Indian visa. Now in more and more

ellers who make last minute deci-

anticipate the increasing attention of

IATO, said, “I presume upcoming in-

countries, biometric enrollment has

sion to travel and it is a good sign.

the global media and the resultant

bound season will be good, this is

started and it is really difficult for

We are confident that there will be a

curiosity about India to translate into

what we see as of now. This year we

tourists

positive growth for the industry.”

major growth in the coming months.”

have confirmed bookings for winter

to

go

the

Indian

embassy/high commissions or their agents.”

S M Shervani, President, Federa-

Srivastava foresees a 2003-2007

which wasn’t a case last year, so

tion of Hotel and Restaurant Asso-

like growth for inbound tourism in the

seems things are getting back to

Tony Marwah, Managing Director,

ciations of India (FHRAI), said, “In

coming years if few issues like high

normal. I have no doubt that pro-

Indian Travel Promotion Company

view of a renewed international

taxation are looked into. “The gov-

posed ETA will add numbers of visi-

(ITPL), said, “The coming season

focus on India post-general elec-

ernment needs to act fast in order to

tors. Overall it will give positive

looks very bullish. I am hopeful India

tions as well as the global economic

cash on the current wave of enthu-

signals to FTOs and they will be en-

will do much better with foreign

recovery gaining momentum, we

siasm and the new found interest in

couraged to promote India as much

India,” said Srivastava.

as possible. I am expecting not less

tourist arrivals. Bulk of our arrivals is

are confident that this recent up-

the Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) es-

trend is sustainable and the forth-

Pradeep Kalra, Senior Vice Pres-

than 20 per cent growth in tourist ar-

pecially from countries like the

coming peak tourist season can

ident, VP, Sales & Marketing,

rivals in coming months.” However,

United States, the United Kingdom

comfortably register at least 16 per

Sarovar Hotels said that stable gov-

Gosain lamented that Indian tourism

and Canada to name a few. These

cent growth in FTAs.”

ernment is giving out a strong signal

industry is still over-taxed as com-

VFRs are the ones that contribute

Expressing his optimism about

in the overseas market, building

pared to other business sectors in

largely to the so called number of

the inbound season, S N Srivastava,

positive feedback on India as a des-

India as well as our competitive

FTAs.”

President & Co-founder, Clarks Inn

tination. According to Kalra, early

tourist destinations. “This is some-

Capt. Swadesh Kumar, Managing

Group of Hotels, said, “There has

implementation of e-visa will cer-

thing where Govt. of India has to ini-

Director, Shikhar Travels (India) &

been a rejuvenation of sorts for the

tainly help attract increased number

tiate some serious efforts. There are

Vice Chairman, India Convention

inbound tourism since a strong gov-

of foreign tourists to the country, as

other related factors which can in-

Promotion Bureau (ICPB), said,

ernment led by Prime Minister

the existing process is too cumber-

crease FTAs, like security to tourist,

“The expectation of the industry for

Narendra Modi has formed the gov-

some and time consuming. E-visa

positive image building worldwide,

the upcoming inbound season is

ernment. The business environment

will ease travel documentation which

cleanliness etc. I appreciate the

very positive. The slide has now

is looking upbeat and brand India is

in turn should see an increase in

clean India campaign by PM Naren-

stopped and the bookings are com-

being seen in significant new light in

FTAs in the country.

dra Modi. I am sure people will par-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

38

COVER STORY |

great move in that direction. This will not only help increase arrivals, but also allow for spontaneous travel decisions by tourists. In addition, it will allow people living in countries different than their nationality to travel to India without having to go through the longer process of applying for a visa. We expect the new system to S M Shervani, President FHRAI

“In view of a renewed international focus on India post-general elections as well as the global economic recovery gaining momentum, we are confident that this recent uptrend is sustainable and the forthcoming peak tourist season can comfortably register at least 16 per cent growth in FTAs.”

S N Srivastava, President Clarks Inn Group of Hotels

Tony Marwah, MD, Indian Travel Promotion Company

“There has been a rejuvenation of sorts for the inbound tourism since a strong government led

by Prime minister Narendra modi has formed the government. The business environment is looking upbeat and brand India is being seen in significant new light in some of the key source markets.”

“The government has taken a positive step in putting tourism on priority and we have to see how this can be translated into increased arrivals. We still need better infrastructure in terms of highways, a more friendly tax regime, better highways and airport connectivity, cleanliness of cities.”

be truly a game changer.”

Welcoming e-visa initiative, Srivastava said, “The availability of evisa will remove a major bottleneck from the ‘process of visa facilitation’ that has deterred thousands or may be millions to choose other destinations over India. Also the government must launch a massive global media campaign to spread public awareness about the availability of e-visa. Overseas India Tourism of-

ticipate wholeheartedly and sin-

should be included in the first phase

cerely,” said Gosain.

Our archaic and overly bureau-

to grow in large volumes, and will

fices and our foreign consulates all

of the ETA/e-visa roll-out,” said Sher-

boost tourism in India in a big way,

over the world must aggressively

vani.

according to Najeeb, who said that

bring it to the knowledge of overseas

cratic visa norms have for long been

PM Narendra Modi has an-

visa liberalization has always been

trade/ FTOs as well as the travelling

a systemic impediment for the coun-

nounced visa-on-arrival facility for

a need in our tourism development

public.”

try's tourism industry. In this context,

US citizens during his visit to the US.

measures. The government will pro-

Swadesh Kumar said, “E-visa will

FHRAI had been vigorously pursu-

“The grant of this facility to US citi-

vide e-visa facility to about 180

definitely help the industry grow. For

ing with the Government at the high-

zens is certainly expected to add

countries. “The e-visa facility will

example, there has been a com-

est level, the issue of adopting a

great impetus to the US arrival fig-

ease out the tourist’s effort of visiting

plaint from the US with regard to the

streamlined and modern e-visa

ures, leading to an impressive up-

an Indian mission for visa and would

long delay in obtaining visas for

regime for international tourists,”

take

said

facilitate them to make an online ap-

travel to India with illogical formali-

said Shervani, who welcomed the

Narayan. “The e-visa implementa-

plication before they start from their

ties and the recent development and

firm commitment given by the Fi-

tion will certainly add to Destination

country,” said Najeeb. However, he

the Prime Minister’s announcement

nance Minister in his budget speech

India’s favoured nation status, creat-

added that tourists arriving India will

to issue visa-on-arrival for the Amer-

that a phased introduction of the

ing an immediate window of oppor-

have to undergo a biometric identifi-

ican travellers will be a very positive

ETA/ e-visa facility will begin in Nov-

tunity for the upcoming inbound

cation to receive the 30 days visa.

step towards the growth of tourism.”

of

inbound

traffic,”

Dec. “If pragmatically structured and

season,” said Narayan, adding, “This

“The authorities expect that India

Marwah said, “The implementa-

implemented as per schedule, this

will certainly to facilitate the building

would have one of the friendliest

tion of e-visa is a positive step and

initiative has the potential to be

of critical mass-momentum thus in-

visa regimes as the Electronic Visa

will definitely contribute to increased

game-changer for Indian tourism

fusing the much-needed demand

facility is in place. It will surely multi-

arrivals. I am not able to comment

and will be a pivotal part of our ef-

into the under-leveraged inbound

ply the volume of tourist inflow into

on what percentage increase this

forts to achieve the goal of doubling

sector and to benefit the country

this country,” said Najeeb.

will entail for this season. This prom-

FTAs to 12 million and increase the

with an additional six million travel-

On e-visa implementation, Kohli

ising step has to be widely and glob-

country's foreign exchange earnings

ers.” Narayan expects that new e-

said, “Any move that makes access

ally advertised.” He added, “The

from tourism to over $30 billion. We

visa facility will result in a clear up

by the tourists easier is most cer-

government has taken a positive

have urged the Government to en-

gradation of inbound traffic by a min-

tainly a welcome move. We in the in-

step in putting tourism on priority

sure that a majority of those coun-

imum of12- 15 per cent, and this is

dustry

been

and we have to see how this can be

tries which constitute the top 15

only the start!

lobbying for relaxation in our visa

translated into increased arrivals.

rules for some time and this is a

We still need better infrastructure in

source markets for FTAs in India

The e-visa facility will help tourism

have

collectively

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

| COVER STORY

mentation, India is now likely to be

years, resulting in being at par with

perceived as a more easily accessi-

other attractive destinations like

ble and lucrative destination for

such as Thailand and Malaysia.”

leisure and business tourists.” She

Pradeep Kalra, Sr. VP, Sales & Marketing, Sarovar Hotels

Ravi Gosain, MD, Erco Travels & Hony. Joint Secretary, IATO

“stable government is giving out a strong signal in the overseas market, building positive feedback on India as a destination. early implementation of evisa will certainly help attract increased number of foreign tourists to the country, as the existing process is too cumbersome and time consuming.”

“I presume upcoming inbound season will be good, this is what we see as of now. This year we have confirmed bookings for winter which wasn’t a case last year, so seems things are getting back to normal. I have no doubt that proposed eTA will add numbers of visitors.”

39

According to Dwivedi, the most ur-

added, “Our current infrastructure

gent step was changing the percep-

capabilities need to be improved in

tion that India has in terms of ease

order to efficiently handle a large in-

of doing business. The new Govern-

flux of tourists. This includes physi-

ment is already working towards

cal infrastructure as well as urban

changing this perception by signing

infrastructure. Also, airport modern-

more free trade agreements to ac-

ization across the country, especially

tively engage with an increasingly

in smaller towns, is required for bet-

globalized world. “While there has

ter management and operation,

been a marginal growth in FTAs in

which will serve to boost inbound

India, it is believed that foreign ex-

leisure and business travel. Most im-

change earnings from tourism are

portantly, there is a pressing need to

likely to grow at 13 per cent per

change India’s image as an unsafe

annum and touch USD 26 billion by

destination and position it as being

2015,” said Dwivedi.

tourist-friendly.”

Welcoming the government deci-

Echoing widespread sentiment of

sion to implement e-visa, Sarkar

the industry, Srivastava said that

said that the e-visa is a very positive

India tourism is highly taxed, and

move by the Government an-

terms of highways, a more friendly

for 40 countries including India. Viet-

hence a costly destination. “I have

nounced by our Finance Minister

tax regime, better highways and air-

nam issues online authorization to

always said and reiterate this once

Arun Jaitley in his budget speech.

port connectivity, cleanliness of

most of the countries where after

again that India tourism is highly

This has also been repeated by our

cities, making monuments more

approval, one can get visa stamped

taxed making it a prohibitively costly

Prime Minister at New York. “We are

handicap friendly and most impor-

on arrival. Anand feels that ETA and

destination vis-à-vis neighbouring

waiting to hear the actual date of im-

tantly making India affordable as

VoA will be a game changer for India

destinations like Thailand, Malaysia,

plementation. With this new develop-

compared to our neighbours. We are

and the tourists arrival can double in

Singapore, and Hong Kong among

ment I am sure there will be an

losing a large share of our arrivals to

the next 5 years. “The immediate

others. The government also ac-

increase of tourist arrival by 15 per

the South East and the Far East

step required is to have a big Incred-

cepts this at the highest level as was

cent per annum. This will give posi-

countries.”

ible India campaign in the overseas

evident in the address of Finance

tive boost to the tourism industry

Expressing his apprehension over

an-

Minister Arun Jaitley at the recent All

and

the delay on the implementation of

nouncements showing that India is

marketing,

especially

with

India Tourism Ministers Meet,” said

tourism shall get the share of this

e-visa, Anand said, “We have been

a tourist friendly country and now

Srivastava, adding, “E-visa needs to

growth,” said Sarkar.

hearing about ETA or VoA for a long

will issue visas on arrival through

be supported by visa-on-arrival for

He added, “I see the future of In-

time but there is no announcement

ETA,” said Anand.

the key source markets as well as

dian tourism is very bright with our

everyone

connected

with

of the date of implementation of this

Neelu Singh on e-visa initiative

the potential market that could be

Prime Minister talking tourism from

scheme. We were told that this will

said, “Any policy that does away with

developed. Now is the time to act,

the ramparts of Red Fort on15th Au-

and act fast.”

start from October but until now,

stringent regulation is always help-

there is no announcement of the

ful, as it eliminates hurdles and

The introduction of the new e-visa

his visit to the US he has expressed

date, visa fee, modalities as to how

makes the process easier. India’s in-

by the Government, Dwivedi said,

several times that tourism shall bring

the visa will be issued. The decision

bound sector has huge potential but

would also drive success for busi-

prosperity and new jobs to the coun-

has been taken by the Government

is largely under-leveraged. The e-

nesses directly or indirectly with the

try. In order to receive the additional

but unless they announce the date

visa authorization will help tap this

tourism industry. He added, “Imple-

foreign tourist to our country I expect

and to which nationals this will be

latent potential and increase tourist

menting the ETA for multiple entry

Government to take priority in devel-

applicable, we cannot update our

influx, thus successfully boosting

visas with longer duration stays will

oping the tourism related infrastruc-

counterparts

overseas.”

gust and also at every forum during

Anand

businesses that are connected ei-

increase its efficiency and appeal,

ture along with private sector and

added smaller countries like Myan-

ther directly or indirectly with the

thus allowing India to see an in-

encourage investment by the Indian

mar has announced visa-on-arrival

tourism industry. With this imple-

crease in tourism over the next few

companies in the country.”

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

40

INTERNATIONAL |

DUBAI TOURISM CONDUCTED 5-CITY ROADSHOW IN INDIA Roadshow was aimed at consolidating Dubai’s position as India’s number one outbound destination.

D

ubai’s

Department

of

ators, travel agents, cruise special-

Tourism and Commerce

ists, wedding planners and MICE

Marketing (DTCM), lead a

specialists.

delegation of representatives from

Dubai Tourism along with its co-

the Emirate’s tourism industry on a

participants comprising leading

merce

commented:

fic into Dubai. We are thus happy to

B2B roadshow of five key metro

hotel chains, resorts and destina-

“India consecutively ranks as the

be tapping this important market

Marketing,

cities across India, with the aim of

tion management companies up-

second top source market globally

through our unique B2B workshop.

further increasing the number of vis-

dated

with

for visitor traffic into Dubai. In 2013,

Our delegation comprising of 17 or-

itors to Dubai from its second

information on Dubai’s new tourism

the total number of Indian visitors

ganizations is supported by our co-

the

retail

trade

biggest source market. The road-

product offerings that can further

totaled 888,835 representing a

sponsors such as Emirates Airlines,

show came shortly after Dubai was

enhance Indian visitor experiences.

16.34% increase over 2012 and the

Sofitel The Palm, Dubai and Bonton Tours & Travels.”

named the number one interna-

The multi-city workshops follows

current first half 2014 figures indi-

tional destination for Indian holiday-

close on the heels recent an-

cate a healthy trend, with more than

Commenting on the upcoming

makers, in a poll by Hotels.com.

nouncement of multi entry visas for

490,000 Indian guests staying in our

Dubai India Roadshow 2014, Carl

As part of a multi-pronged 2014

Indian travelers and the strong po-

hotels between January and end

Vaz, Director-DTCM India said, “Our

marketing strategy to further boost

sition that India occupies as one of

June 2014. Our B2B workshops

roadshow creates a platform of inter-

the overall number of Indian trav-

the top source markets of travelers

play a vital role in facilitating the

action for tour and travel operators,

ellers to Dubai; the roadshow in

to the Emirate of Dubai. Longer

overall number of inbound travelers

cruise and MICE specialists and

New Delhi was held on the 15th of

term, Indian visitors will continue to

into Dubai as it helps build a strong

even wedding planners from various

September which was followed by

be a key strategic focus for Dubai,

alliance between the Indian and

parts of India to widen their product

visits to the cities of Kolkata (16th

especially as the United Arab Emi-

Dubai private sector retail chain.”

knowledge and thus enhance Indian

September), Chennai (18th Sep-

rates readies to stage the iconic

Hoor Mohammad Noor Al Khaja,

traveler experience creating more

tember), Bangalore (19th Septem-

World Expo 2020, marking the first

Head of Region at Dubai Tourism,

first time and repeat travelers. Our

ber) and Mumbai on the 20th of

time the mega event will be held in

said, “We are excited about conduct-

key market segments this year are

September. During the five city visit,

the Middle East, North Africa and

ing our multi-city B2B roadshows in

leisure group series departures and

the delegation led by Dubai Tourism

South Asia (MENASA) region.

India. India is a very lucrative market

the family segment in addition to niche segments.”

interacted with over 1,300 Indian re-

Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai

and we are aware of the potential it

tail partners that include tour oper-

Corporation of Tourism and Com-

holds in terms of inbound visitor traf-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

by TNH DESK

42

INTERNATIONAL |

ABU DHABI RECEIVED 124,912 INDIAN HOTEL GUESTS IN JANUARY-JULY 2014

❖ B PREM KUMAR Y

A

bu Dhabi Tourism & Cul-

ture Authority has made inroads

into

the

global

tourism market with multi-faceted

attractions, renowned events and the recently concluded highly successful Abu Dhabi Summer Season. India is currently Abu Dhabi’s leading overseas source market for hotel guests. According to Dinshaw, Abu Dhabi is generating a high

India is currently Abu Dhabi’s leading overseas source market for hotel guests. Bejan Dinshaw, Country Manager, India, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority informed that Abu Dhabi received 124,912 Indian hotel guests from January to July, 2014 at a growth rate of 35% over the same period last year. These guests delivered 475,177 guest nights, which was up by 24% on year-onyear basis.

level of interest as a multi-faceted,

Bejan Dinshaw Country manager, India, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority

increasingly popular with Indian travellers as a complete entertainment destination. There are multiple attractions, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, and the Yas Marina Circuit. Soon to open – just prior to this November’s Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, is the eagerly awaited Yas Mall, which will be the

unexplored and exotic destination

Zayed Grand Mosque.

for the upwardly-mobile aspirational

Visitors can tour on a daily basis

Indian traveller. “The unmatched

through a complimentary guided

coming Bollywood movie Bang

“For the art and culture lovers,

experiences, entertainment and

tour.

Bang, which has been extensively

we have the Saadiyat Island – with

shot at various scenic locations

its sweeping beach, Saadiyat

across Abu Dhabi.

Beach Golf Club and stunning

blend of culture and tradition are at-

“We have the crystal clear waters

tracting the Indian Leisure, MICE

of the Corniche – where you can

as well as special interest, destina-

cycle alongside the beautiful beach

strated by Indian superstar Hrithik Roshan in the up-

Eco-boat cruises are the latest

emirate’s largest shopping complex.

beachfront resorts,” said Dinshaw.

tion wedding and honeymoon seg-

by hiring a bike and then head for

activity to be offered at Abu Dhabi’s

Saadiyat Island will also soon be

ment, and niche travellers,” said

afternoon tea in Emirates Palace or

stunning Eastern Mangroves Na-

home to a series of world-class cul-

Dinshaw, adding, “Our target is to

visit the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers,

ture Reserve. Another great adven-

tural institutions. The Jean Nouvel-

continue our current performance

where you can catch some stun-

ture lies amidst the huge dunes of

designed Louvre Abu Dhabi will

with a sustained growth in the num-

ning aerial views atop the Observa-

the Liwa Desert in the magnificent

open next year, followed a year

ber of hotel guests from India stay-

tion Deck at 300,” said Dinshaw.

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by

later by the Zayed National Mu-

Anantara.

seum and the Guggenheim Abu

ing in Abu Dhabi.”

Fly boarding near the Corniche is

One of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic

a popular activity, with the action-

With a vast range of attractions,

landmarks is the famous Sheikh

packed experience being demon-

Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island is becoming

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

Dhabi in 2017.

44

INTERNATIONAL |

MONACO TOURISM CARVING A NICHE Monaco Tourism conducted residential workshop in Udaipur

M

onaco Government Tourist

& Convention Bureau’s prime objective has been

speaker for the second day. He

to carve out a niche market among

shared an insight of how luxury is

the Indian travellers. India has al-

perceived in different ways and

ways been an important emerging

Monaco being a synonym to it.

market for Monaco. From time to

Guillaume

time Monaco has taken numerous

Rose,

President,

Monaco Government Tourist and

steps to enhance the destination vis-

Convention Authority said, “India is a

ibility and knowledge.

growing market and we want to en-

In order to further educate the In-

gage the travel trade to promote

dian travel trade about the destina-

Monaco as a destination for leisure

tion and facilitate interaction with the

travellers. We see a lot of potential in

private sector of Monaco, Residen-

this market and our prime objective

tial Workshop was organized at

was to create a platform for the India

Udaipur. Travel agents from 13 differ-

travel trade and Monaco Hotel part-

ent cities i.e Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmed-

ners for more business opportuni-

abad, Bangalore, Chennai, Vadodra,

ties. It was a great learning

Kolkata, Kanpur, Nagpur, Pune,

experience. Spending quality time

Chandigarh, Amritsar and Hyder-

with the Indian travel Trade has given

abad were invited for the Residential

us enhanced insight into the needs

Workshop.

and demands of the Indian travellers.

The objective of the Residential

The thought process behind select-

Workshop was to bring potential and

ing Udaipur was to reflect the royal

selective travel agents from across

aura and magnificence of the city. An

India under one roof and showcase

effort was made to project the best

product options for leisure, experien-

possible standards of royalty that is

tial, special occasion and honey-

befitting and representative of the

moon travellers.

character of destination Monaco.”

Monaco is known for its scenic

Treasure hunt was organized

beauty, classy lifestyle, spectacular

received and appreciated by the

senior journalist throwing light on the

where the travel agents and Monaco

architecture and renowned casinos

Travel Trade.

and the list is never ending when it come to luxury and glamour.

destination in Indian market. He

delegation took part and were di-

The renowned Indian print and tel-

spoke about luxury travel and

vided into teams. It was a team build-

evision journalist, columnist and talk

Monaco as a preferred destination

ing exercise and learning about

The workshop was designed to

show host, Vir Sanghvi was the

for leisure and grandeur in French

Monaco in a fun and frolic manner

share insights of the destination as

Keynote speaker at the welcome

Riviera.

like F1 race was replicated, teams

well as Indian consumer’s luxury as-

dinner. It is imperative to note that

Jamal Shaikh, the Editorial Direc-

had to put their creative shoes on

pirations in a fun and business envi-

this was the first of its kind of inau-

tor of the most influential luxury mag-

and paint keeping in mind Monaco

ronment.

gural session where NTO had very

azine, Robb Report was the guest

as a theme, etc.

The event was well

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

by TNH DESK

| INTERNATIONAL

45

CRICKET WORLD CUP VISA PERIOD ANNOUNCED

BRAND USA SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDES ITS 3RD INDIA TRAVEL MISSION

Immigration Minister Michael Woodhouse has announced a 10-week window will apply to the TransTasman visa agreement for the 2015 Cricket World Cup.

Launches Culinary Guide and USA Discovery Program in India Brand USA recently concluded its third annual India Travel Mission The

“From 26 January to 5 April

mission across three Indian metro

2015, cricket fans and other visi-

cities witnessed a tremendous re-

tors

New

sponse with over 600 Indian travel in-

Zealand will only need to apply

dustry professionals attending buyer

for one visa under a new Trans-

seller meetings in Bangalore, Mum-

to

Tasman

Australia

Visa

and

Arrangement,”

bai and New Delhi. The US delega-

Woodhouse says.

tions comprised of 41 participants

Jay Gray

“Over this period, New Zealand

representing 30 US companies in-

will grant a three month visitor

cluding destinations, attractions, ho-

VP - Global Partnership Development, Brand usA

visa on arrival to those who al-

tels and receptive operators. The

dian travel agents to sell USA like

ready hold an acceptable Aus-

India Travel Mission extended its

never before. Jay Gray, VP, Global

tralian visa. This will make it

will take place from 14 February

reach this year by including Ben-

Partnership Development at Brand

easier for cricket fans to follow

to 29 March 2015. An extended

galuru in the programme, and re-

USA said, “Like earlier years, the

their team in both countries, and

window for the visa arrangement

turned to the major metros cities of

India Travel Mission has been a great

encourage those who may not

will also enable fans to visit New

Mumbai and New Delhi.

success and has been enthusiasti-

have

planned

to

visit

New

Zealand, to do so.”

Zealand before or after the official tournament.

The mission provided a platform

cally received by the Indian travel

for US suppliers to interact with

trade. New initiatives like the USA Discovery Program will engage the

“We’re sending the message to

In addition to making it easier

India’s travel buyers. During the mis-

everyone coming for the Cricket

for international tourists to come

sion, Brand USA announced the

travel trade to learn the diverse travel

World Cup, that the only barrier

to New Zealand for the event, this

launch of their training programme,

options in the US. Additionally the re-

between you, and a fantastic

agreement will also allow people

the “USA Discovery Programme” for

cently published Culinary Guide with

New Zealand experience, is your

already in Australia on most per-

the Indian travel trade. The “USA Dis-

encourage gourmet enthusiasts to

plane ticket.”

manent or temporary visa types

covery Program” is an online learning

discover cuisines of the USA like

to come to New Zealand.

tool created to train and empower In-

never before."

The 2015 Cricket World Cup

PHLCVB JOINED 3RD BRAND USA INDIA TRAVEL MISSION

interact with our Indian travel industry partners. We have recently appointed an in-market representative and are happy to state that 2013

Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), the official tourist

promotion

agency

of

by an additional media day in New

saw an increase of 24% in

Delhi.

overnight stays by Indian travelers

Jack Ferguson, President and

in Philadelphia from the previous

Philadelphia, successfully partici-

CEO represented PHLCVB at the

year. India is now in the top 5 over-

pated in the third Brand USA India

Mission and he was supported by

seas feeder markets for Philadel-

Travel Mission from 7th – 13th Sep-

Ms. Svetlana Yazovskikh, Interna-

phia. We look forward to welcoming

tember 2014 in the three Indian

tional Tourism Sales Manager dur-

more and more Indian visitors and

metro cities of Bengaluru, Mumbai

ing his business meetings with

establishing the image of Philadel-

and New Delhi. During this Mission

members of the Indian travel trade

interactive travel trade events were

and media. Seeing the response

Ferguson said, “We thank Brand

organized at all locations, followed

generated by the mission, Mr. Jack

USA for providing us a platform to

phia as a world class tourism desti-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

nation.”

46

IN CONVERSATION |

“Holiday Inn offers a consistent and reliably welcoming experience” Holiday Inn hotels offers the perfect mix of business and pleasure for today’s comfort-seeking traveller by providing an inviting, familiar atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy themselves, says PASCAL GAUVIN, Chief Operating Officer, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG. In Conversation with TnH, Gauvin talks about USP of Holiday Inn brand of IHG. He also speaks about IHG’s ambitious expansion plans for the Holiday Inn brand in India.

❖ B PREM KUMAR Y

indly give an overview of

K

Holiday Inn brand in terms of its origin, objectives and evolution.

Holiday Inn was born out of a family

man's vision. Before he became the man behind the world's most recognised hotel brand, Kemmons Wilson took his family on a road trip only to be disappointed by the quality of places to stay. He set out to

London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

change that and the first Holiday Inn hotel

In 1991, we launched Holiday Inn Express,

was opened in 1952 in Memphis, Tennessee.

which is part of the Holiday Inn family of brands.

It was the first hotel brand to consistently offer

Holiday Inn Express appeals to guests who are

TVs, air-conditioning, free parking, a full-service

after a refreshing, comfortable and convenient

restaurant and a pool, all at an affordable price.

stay in city-centre locations around the world - all

Today, Holiday Inn continues to champion the

while managing their money wisely. Guests are al-

family-friendly values that Kemmons first envis-

ways welcomed with the same genuine hospitality

aged and every year 100 million people stay at Holiday Inn (and Holiday Inn Express) hotels around the world. Globally there are around 1,200 Holiday Inn hotels with 268 properties in the development pipeline.

It’s a brand that has a history of firsts, including being the first international hotel brand to open in China 30 years ago, the first hotel brand to take an online booking in 1995 to the first Olympic Partner to help run the Athletes’ Village at the

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

“We feel that mid-scale is a big opportunity in India. We have ambitious expansion plans for the Holiday Inn brand family in India; close to 85% of our development pipeline (by number of hotels) in India are Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express hotels. We’re making sure that our brand is locally relevant by bringing our global brand standards to India but customised for the Indian market.”

| IN CONVERSATION

47

Consumer demand in India is booming, driven by

hotels); the Brigade Group to develop 10 Holiday

urbanisation and growing incomes. We feel that

Inn Express hotels in South India, and with the

mid-scale is a big opportunity in India. We have

Jain Group to bring three Holiday Inn hotels to

ambitious expansion plans for the Holiday Inn

West Bengal.

brand family in India - close to 85% of our de-

We’re actively developing strategic partnerships to expand in India and will continue to explore opportunities.

In India how has been the performance of the existing hotels under this brand?

velopment pipeline (by number of hotels) in India by a name they can trust - Holiday Inn. What is USP of Holiday Inn brand? What seg-

We have seen an enthusiastic response to Holi-

are Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express hotels.

day Inn hotels across the country. The comfort,

We’re making sure that our brand is locally rele-

convenience and friendliness that the brand is

vant by bringing our global brand standards to

recognised for worldwide, has been appreciated

ments of travellers is this brand targeted at?

India but customised for the Indian market - for

by guests at our India hotels. The fact that we

Whether travelling as a family, or booking a busi-

example by tailoring our dining concepts to re-

bring our global brand standards customized to

ness meeting, Holiday Inn hotels offer a consis-

flect regional tastes and cultures. We’re using

the Indian market through F&B offerings, décor,

tent and reliably welcoming experience in more

consumer insight to provide guest experiences

services has also been recognized. Developing

than 70 countries around the world. It offers the

that are locally relevant.

the Holiday Inn brand, is core to the IHG growth

comfort-seeking traveller by providing an inviting,

How has this brand grown in India? Do you

brand is a perfect offering for the globetrotting new-age travellers in India.

perfect mix of business and pleasure for today’s

strategy in India as we are confident that the

familiar atmosphere where guests can relax and

have any plan to enter into a strategic tie-up

enjoy themselves. For guests travelling with their

with other company for Indian market in near

families, Holiday Inn was the first hotel brand to

future, on the lines of your tie-up with Duet

What are the pros and cons of Indian market?

offer ‘Kids Stay & Eat Free’ programme. Holiday

India Hotels or otherwise?

How will you compare Indian market with

Inn Resorts have specially designed KidSuites

Currently, we have eight Holiday Inn hotels and

other key markets in terms of doing busi-

and Family Suites, Kids Club, and facilities de-

two Holiday Inn Express hotels across major

ness?

signed especially for the youngest family mem-

metros and secondary cities. In addition to our

India is a key growth market for IHG as we see a

bers.

20 year management contract with Duet India

positive outlook for both domestic and interna-

Hotels Group, we have also signed agreements

tional tourism in the country. The new govern-

How does this brand suit to markets like

with, the Amrapali Group to open six hotels (two

ment has recognized the vital role hospitality

India?

Holiday Inn hotels and four Holiday Inn Express

plays in generating integral foreign exchange dol-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

48

IN CONVERSATION |

lars and creating significant employment oppor-

we have an online system we call IHG Green En-

tunities. Additionally, the decision to extend visa-

HOLIDAY INN OVER THE YEARS

gage which measures the impact our hotels have

on-arrival to tourists from 180 countries and

2013: IHG signs an agreement with Brigade group to develop 10 Holiday Inn Express hotels in South India.

2012: The first Holiday Inn Express hotel is opened in India - Holiday Inn Express Ahmedabad - with Spence Wilson (son of Kemmons Wilson) in attendance.

2012: Holiday Inn celebrated its 60th anniversary 1984: Holiday Inn is the first international hotel brand to open in China with Holiday Inn Lido Beijing.

1973: Asia’s first Holiday Inn hotel opens in Kyoto, Japan.

1967: The first Holiday Inn in Europe opens in the Netherlands, Holiday Inn Leiden.

1960: The first Holiday Inn opens outside of the US, in Montreal.

1952: Holiday Inn was founded in Memphis Tennessee by Kemmons Wilson.

on the environment, and helps them manage

relaxation of lending rules for infrastructure developments signify bright prospects for the Indian tourism industry.

Whilst the tourism industry in India has seen many positive developments, there remain a number of challenges across markets that need to be addressed in order to boost the tourism industry on the state and national level. These challenges are: DEVELOPING A SKILLED & MOTIVATED WORKFORCE A major challenge in development of tourism sector is lack of a skilled workforce. By 2020, the hospitality sector in India will require an additional 180,000 rooms and more than 200,000 people to run them. The industry itself has to play a role in skill development. One good example is the partnership between IHG and one of India’s largest

costs. This is done by tracking energy, carbon and water that our hotels use and how well they’re managing waste. It also tells our owners what they’re spending and saving.

How do you look at opportunities and competition in mid-market segment in India, with many domestic and international chains focusing on mid-market segment?

The Indian travel market is evolving as consumers are constantly exposed to international brands, concepts and trends. We recognize that travellers are becoming increasingly value-conscious and thus, there is a strong demand for mid-scale hotels. Our growth plans are accordingly focused on the mid-scale segment which for us comprises of Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express brands. We have ambitious expansion plans for the two brands with close to 85% of our

vocational training organisations, IL&FS Skills.

Travellers are becoming more educated about

development pipeline comprising of Holiday Inn

Such collaborations provide hotel companies op-

environmental issues, and in turn increasingly en-

and Holiday Inn Express hotels.

portunities to share industry knowledge and en-

vironmentally conscious. This has not gone un-

In this highly competitive landscape, one of the

hance the skills of those who want to build a

noticed by the industry and we now see hotels

key areas which set us apart is our talent. In the

career in tourism and hospitality. It also allows us

actively adopting sustainable practices such as

future, we intend to continue investing in nurtur-

to contribute to local communities in a sustain-

measures to reduce water and energy consump-

ing that talent. We are able to continuously differ-

able and meaningful way.

tion. On an industry level, we also see hotel com-

entiate ourselves and deliver consistent guest

panies investing in systems to help their hotels

experiences, through our brands and our service

implement sustainable practices. For example,

levels that ultimately drive preference.

IMPLEMENTING SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

| EVENT WATCH

SAROVAR HOTELS HOLDS ITS 20TH ANNUAL MEET AT ISB MOHALI Sarovar Hotels recently organised its 20th Annual Meet on Septmeber 4 – 6, 2014 at the beautiful campus of Indian School of Business (ISB) Mohali. This annual event was attended by all Corporate Heads, General Managers of all Sarovar hotels across the country & East Africa, as well as key Sales & Marketing associates from across 13 regional offices in India.The agenda of this 3-day event was carefully put together with a host of external speakers from varied fields. This yearTourism Secretary Parvez Dewan graced the occasion as the key note speaker.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

49

50

APPOINTMENTS |

Steven Dixon Tourism New Zealand

Mona Cheriyan Thomas Cook (India)

Raghu Sapra Hilton Mumbai International Airport

Mohammed Shoeb Novotel Chennai SIPCOT

Tourism New Zealand has announced changes to its Singapore based business events, trade and management team.

Current Tourism New Zealand's Business Events Manager for North America, Steven Dixon has been appointed to the role of Regional Manager South and South East Asia, effective from November.

Prior to joining Tourism New Zealand Steven worked in hotel management and development roles in Dunedin and Christchurch for five years including the highly successful launch of Hotel So in Christchurch.

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. announced the appointment of Mona Cheriyan as Chief Operating Officer & Head – Human Resources.

With a career spanning almost 30 years, Mona started her work life as Associate Professor at Sophia College before moving on to NIIT as a Sr. Systems Executive. Her foray into the human resources domain began as a Training Officer with the ESSAR Group, followed by a tenure of 16 years withOracle Financial Services Software Ltd (earlier known as Citicorp Information Technology Industries Ltd and i-flex Solutions Ltd.).

Raghu Sapra has been appointed as the General Manager of Hilton Mumbai International Airport, the intimate boutique-like hotel conveniently located near the domestic and international airports. Raghu’s career in the lodging industry spans 17 years and includes positions in India with Marriott Hotels, Hyatt Hotels and Resorts and The Imperial, New Delhi. He joined Hilton Worldwide in 2011 and, prior to successfully launching DoubleTree Suites

by Hilton Bangalore earlier this year as the General Manager, Raghu was part of the pre-opening team of Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks as Director of Operations.

Mohammed Shoeb is the General Manager of the Novotel Chennai SIPCOT (Accor Group of Hotels), located at Old Mahabalipuram Road the IT Hub of Chennai.

Mohammed has done his Post Graduation in Tourism and Hotel Management and carries an experience of 25 years in the Hospitality Industry. He has a strong and sound background of opening new hotels, operations, sales & marketing and Guest Relations. Mohammed has had wonderful opportunities to work with brands like Starwood, ITC WelcomGroup, Four Points by Sheraton & Intercontinental to name a few.

Rajesh Gopalakrishnan ibis Chennai SIPCOT

Manoj Mathpal Shervani Hospitalities

Geetika Sharma Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon

Atul Goyal Hilton Worldwide

Rajesh Gopalakrishnan has been appointed as the General Manager for ibis Chennai SIPCOT. In his leadership role, he is responsible for spearheading operations at the Ibis Chennai Sipcot. Prior to this, Rajesh was the General Manager of The Raintree Hotel, St Mary’s.

Fascinated with the hospitality industry since his early years, Rajesh has worked at various levels in the hospitality industry across India, the Middle East and Maldives.

Starting out on the culinary side, within a span of four years, Rajesh joined the Taj group of Hotels in 1992 as a Trainee Chef.

Shervani Hospitalities Ltd., a chain of Hotels, Resorts & Restaurants in Uttrakhand and Delhi, recently announced the appointment of Manoj Mathpal as the new General Manager-Sales & Marketing.

Manoj comes with an experience of 10 years in the travel and hospitality industry. Armed with Bachelor in Commerce from DSB Campus, Nainital and Hotel Management from YMCA New Delhi degrees, he was serving as Deputy General Manager- Sales & Marketing at Country Inn Hotels & Resorts prior to joining Shervani Hospitalities. He started his career with Alpcord Network.

Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon has announced the appointment of Geetika Sharma as Manager, Human Resource. In her role with the company, she will develop and manage the human resource operations and support the management team in building an energetic strategy for Human Capital. With a strong inclination towards training and mentoring, she will also take charge of leading team members to successfully deliver high end results.

With a practice of over 10 years in the hospitality industry, Geetika has been delivering exceptional results in the key areas of her expertise.

Hilton Worldwide has announced the appointment of Atul Goyal as Head of Human Resources for India. Atul is based at the India Regional Office in Gurgaon and reports to Brendan Toomey, Vice President, Human Resources - Asia Pacific, Hilton Worldwide.

Atul’s experience in human resources spans almost a decade and includes a range of industries including hospitality, oil and gas, consumer durables and Information Technology.

Most recently, he was the Regional Human Resources Manager – India, Accor Hotels.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2014

Dl (ND)-11/6167/2014-15-16 | DATe oF PosTING: 6-11 oF moNTH | RNI No.: DeleNG/2010/33723 | DATe oF PuBlIsHING: 4 th oF THe moNTH