Travel and Hospitality (TnH) - October 2015

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Travel Hospitality Issue 1 | Volume VII | october 2015 | `50

pa g e s 5 2

NATIONAL TOURISM POLICY 2015

...?

ESTO

R

Design by Sunny Singh

INDUSTRY

Of course, in winter one c

FROM THE EDITOR

Policy delayed is progress delayed

Publisher & Editor srishti rai Director bharat s. rai Managing Editor prem Kumar General Manager - Marketing prem sagar premsagar@tnhindia.com (m) +91 99106 81111 Art Director sunny singh Correspondent (Kolkata) swaati chaudhury Accounts chander shakher balodi " !

Administration Executive % sarwat Jahan IT Executive Naveen manchanda

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As you are aware that our government was to unveil the New National Tourism Policy in May this year, but the proposed policy is still It is more appealin the making despite the Minister of Tourism i committing at a meeting in March that that “from now on, a new work culture will be implemented in which a task will be identified and assigned to a person. The timeline will As most of also be fixed and the implementation willyou be closely monitored.” m It is high time that the MinistryWith of Tourism over (MoT) should announce the new Tourism Pol2 icy. One and half year is more than enough for any government to formulate its policy and set its agenda. As entrepreneurs and investors Top decision patiently await the announcement of themaknew e Tourism Policy, delay in its announcement will only slow down the progress in the tourism sector and hurt the industry as well as the overall economy of the country. A new tourism policy is a long overdue because a lot have

www.tnhindia.com 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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I changed since 2002 when the government had announced the last National Tourism Policy.

Moreover, any policy of a democratic government must be aimed at the inclusive socioeconomic development of its citizenry through employment and income generation. So while finalizing the new tourism policy, the government must incorporate these objectives into the new policy.

Once the new policy is announced, the key to success of the government’s tourism policy will be its effective and time-boundIndia implemenis an tation. Howsoever perfect our policy may be, a unless it is implemented properly, we will not be able to achieve the desired goals. We all know that implementation is a key concern area in our country. So the MoT must ensure that the new policy is effectively implemented in a time-bound manner. Read our cover story titled ‘NPT 2015 still in Making’ at page no. 30 to know in detail the consequences of delay in the announcement of the new tourism policy.

Delay in the announcement of the new policy is a direct loss of employment and tourism receipts as a strong tourism policy has the potential to spur growth. Example of Turkey and Thailand are classic examples of tourism growth in a sharp contrast to where India stands today. So the sooner NTP 2015 is announced, the better it will be for Indian tourism sector.

As the new inbound tourism sets in India, we have also done a story (at page no. 6) on the expected business in the new inbound season. We found that traditional enthusiasm for the season is missing among the inbound tour operates, and their expectation is very modest. However, the industry must keep its fingers crossed and intensify its efforts to get maximum of the new season. Let’s hope for the best!

contents

october 2015

40

30

17

OURISM NATIONAL TTOURISM NATIONAL PPOLICY OLICY 22015 015

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06

COVER STORY

06 New Inbound season may disappoint: fears the industry

12

Festive travel surges in Bengal amidst global recession

17 Air India – The Brand That Connects 30 NTP 2015:

Still in The Making

32

12

38

32 MoT launches several new

42

40 Mandarin Oriental, Taipei:

An abode of impeccable luxury

initiatives on World Tourism Day

38

Explore the Awe Aspiring Sun Festival in South Egypt

MICE Movement in Mumbai

42 Trends Perspectives and Expectations!

TRADE

New Inbound season may disappoint: fears the industry Business prospect in the new inbound season does not look very promising as many global economies are faring worse this year and travellers are less enthusiastic to travel long-haul destinations.

v B PREM KUMAR Y

Every year India’s travel & tourism industry of the country looks forward to the arrival of the inbound tourism season in the country, and so is it doing this year, but the business sentiment in the industry is currently subdued to some extent.

Traditional enthusiasm for the new inbound season is missing. Speaking about the business prospect in the new inbound tourism season in the country, Rajeev Kohli, Joint Managing Director, Creative Travel India said that this season definitely looks a bit soft.

“International economies are faring a lot worse this year and that is diverting consumer attention from long-haul travel. My feedback from colleagues in the industry and some hoteliers is

Rajeev Kohli Joint Managing Director, Creative Travel India

Arun Anand Managing Director, Midtown Travels

that although there is business, there is no in-

financial year. The lack of growth in arrival figure

crease and in fact some pockets are showing ei-

is also being attributed to the fact that although

Commenting on the growing list of India’s e-

ther stagnancy or a decrease,” said Kohli.

the government launched e-visa visa facility with

visa eligible countries, and how much it will im-

Arun Anand, Managing Director of Midtown

much gusto, the government so far has not been

pact the foreign tourist arrivals in the inbound

Travels is also not very positive about the new

effectively communicate to the nationals of the

season, Kohli, “It is most certainly helpful and a

inbound season. Sharing his anticipation of the

countries which are eligible for e-visas. Ideally

step in the right direction, however the problem

new season, Anand said, “The business for the

both, the government and private sector should

is that in many countries people do not know

coming high season is not looking good despite

have aggressively communicated the availability

about the system.” He further said that the exist-

the fact that both the USD & EURO are very

of e-visa in eligible overseas markets. It is pos-

ing Visa processing agents who were appointed

strong at the moment.’ He expressed hope that

sible that recent bureaucratic changes in the

in certain markets are playing games and mis-

the business will pick up from November to at

MoT would have disrupted its focus on the over-

leading people in trying to make them apply the

least the level of the last winter.

son.

seas marketing efforts. Although our PM Naren-

traditional way so that they can make money.

It seems that government’s initiatives to pro-

dra Modi keeps talking about tourism wherever

“We need to promote the system more aggres-

mote tourism in the country are being counter-

he goes, the MoT under his government is un-

sively in our key source markets,” said Kohli.

acted by external factors, such as economic

able to walk his talk.

Kohli’s sentiment is shared by many in the in-

recession prevailing in many countries. In fact,

North American countries like the US and

dustry. Agreeing with what Kohli said, Anand

many voices in the industry also feel that the

Canada, and Middle East countries are ex-

stated that the e-tourist visa facility is very good

government has not done enough to attract for-

pected to fare comparatively better, as their

but it has to be advertised in each country. “India

eign tourist arrivals, particularly on marketing

economies are bouncing back, and recovery

Tourism can take a lead and with India promo-

front. E- Tourist Visa facility launched last year in

looks sustainable.

tional advertisements, they can highlight this e-

November 2014, originally named as Visa on Ar-

Kohli believes that the North America may per-

rival enabled by Electronic Travel Authorization

form a bit better. “We had high hopes from South

Expressing the widely shared view in the in-

(ETA), has not made much difference as far as

America, but the economy there is in poor con-

dustry, Anand said, “At the moment, we have not

growth in the tourist arrivals is concerned, al-

dition and it has reversed their trends from last

started marketing the e-tourist visa facility in

though e-Tourist Visa facility is now available to

year,” says Kohli. According to Anand, the Amer-

these countries. Yes, the numbers can increase

nationals of 113 countries, and the government

ican, the Middle East and South Asian markets

a lot and this can be a game changer for India,”

intends to take this number to 150 by end of this

is expected to do better than the last winter sea-

added Anand.”

6

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

tourist visa facility also,” said Anand.

TRADE

‘Tourism will grow in the new inbound season’ Rishi Puri, Vice President, Lords Hotels & Resorts, says that there are few factors, both internal as well as external which make him confident of growth in the new season.

We are very optimistic about the growth of inbound tourism this season.There are few factors which are both internal and external which make us confident of the growth this

Crows Lake in North Sikkim

year.The external fac-

Rishi Puri VP, Lords Hotels & Resorts

The need of the hour is that the govern-

of Indian Embassies/Consulates to promote

tors include rolling out of liberal e-visa scheme

ment needs to do more to promote tourism

India. You must have seen that smaller coun-

by the government which wishes to make India

in the country and as far as increasing for-

tries are doing more promotions as com-

a favorite tourist destination.Secondly the recent

eign tourist arrivals in the new inbound

pared to us and they are reaping the

depreciation of Indian Rupees vis a vis US Dollar

tourism season is concerned, the govern-

benefits.

makes India an inexpensive destination.

ment should undertake 360 degree marketing blitzkrieg in overseas market.

According to Kohli, we need to promote the advantages of selling India to the global

“We are a beautiful country offering lovely

India appears to have overcome the issue of

destination but we have not marketed our-

women's safety and dollar less growth to draw

selves well. If we do so, sky is the limit,” said

at least 10% more tourists than last year. Signif-

Rajesh Puri, VP, Lords Hotels.

icantly the increase in tourists can also be seen

tour operator market. “We need to talk about

The industry believes that benefits of intro-

due to the recent development of e-tourist Visas.

our safety. We need to express our USPs. We

duction of e-Tourist Visa is being undermined

The traffic will surely increase this season. Not

are being far too quiet. We are more or less

by the several unfriendly introduction of bio-

only this even the state governments are also

absent when it comes to marketing and pro-

metrics.

getting more prompt over tourist and tourism re-

motion when compared to our global competitors.”

Subhash Goyal IATO’s President has

lated issues. Special measure are being taken

lamented many a time on different platforms

by government to facilitate International and do-

As a tourist destination, India definitely has

that requirement of biometric for the regular

mestic tourism by upgrading Air, Road & Rail

a wide range of products, slowly and gradu-

tourists visa is discouraging tourists as bio-

services .The connectivity isn’t a big problem

ally tourism infrastructure is also improving

metric process makes visa process costlier,

now with more smoother roads and more over

in the country, but the country has been slow,

complicated and lengthy for tourists. Goyal is

online booking portals and information are even

inconsistent and ill-quipped to promote its

of the view that all kinds of visa should have

further helping the tourist to visit the places eas-

tourism products. India’s tourism potentials

biometrics only on arrival at the airports.

ily which was quiet a task earlier .

are poorly represented and marketed in the

Currently the e-Tourist visa application

Right now there is one issue with E-visas and

overseas markets. The marketing infrastruc-

cannot be submitted earlier than 34 days

that is limited entry points for entering the coun-

ture required to market such as huge and

from the date of arrival in India. The e-visa is

try. Say a person who is travelling to Kochi will

varied destination is lacking in the overseas

valid for 30 days only and entry is also limited

have to first enter Delhiget his e-visa stamped

markets. Even at places the India Tourism

to single point. The industry feels that the du-

here and take another flight to Kochi,though

has its offices, the marketing efforts have

ration for applying e-visa should be in-

there was a direct flight between his city and

been less than impressive.

creased and entry should be allowed through

Kochi.Government is aware of this issue and try-

Anand laments that the country lacks pro-

multiple points. So the government must ad-

ing to resolve this by opening more e-visa cen-

motional efforts in a lot of countries and we

dress these issues on urgent basis to get

ters in the country.Besides our embassies

need to step this up. Wherever, there are no

maximum of this season.

should publicize the e-visa’s scheme in the re-

India Tourist offices, we should take the help

spective countries where they are based.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

7

MARKET TRENDS

Singapore most preferred destination of Indians in the 1st half of 2015: HPI Report

the first half of 2014 was replaced by the new en-

Pune replaced Thiruvananthapuram for International travellers, says HPI report.

the top 2 spots, Bengaluru which is known as the

trant, Bali in the first six months of 2015.

While Delhi and Mumbai continued to reserve IT capital of India swapped Goa bagging the 3rd

According to the latest Hotels.com’s Hotel Price

and New York (US) retained their4th and 5th spot

position. Destinations such as Chennai, Hyder-

Index report, Singapore‘the Lion City’ replaces ‘the

respectively. Destinations such as Paris which

abad, Jaipur and Kolkata retained their5th, 6th, 7th

Desert City’ Dubai taking the top position as the

ranked the 8th position in the first half of 2014

and 8th position respectively.Once the bastion of

most preferred international destination by Indian

moved upwards to the 7th position, dropping Hong

the Maratha Empire Pune, having acquired a rep-

travellers in the first half of 2015. The US and UK

Kong, Las Vegas to the 8th and9th position respec-

utation as an educational centre, was the new en-

continue to charm Indian travellers asLondon (UK)

tively. Kuala Lumpur which spotted the 10th rank in

trant at 9thspot moving Cochin to the 10th spot.

Top overseas destinations for Indian travellers H1 2015 H1 2014

Top overseas destinations for Indian travellers H1 2015H1 2014

10

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

TRADE

TrawellTag Cover-More Regional Office gets a new face Market leader in Indian travel ancillary services, TrawellTag Cover-More inaugurated its regional office at Rajendra Place, Delhi-NCR on 23rd September 2015.

The opening of new office in Delhi is the most recent expan-

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Speaking on the occasion, with pride and delight, Dev Karvat, Managing Director, TrawellTag Cover-More said “The opening of new office in Delhi marks a new milestone for TrawellTag Cover-

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TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2015

11

TRADE

Statue of Independence, Kuala Lumpur

Hua Hin Railway Station

Festive travel surges in Bengal amidst global recession With the rupee hitting low against the dollar, there are fewer trips to long-haul global destinations but there’s no stopping for travel junkies of Bengal who want to pursue their travel passion to overseas during the festive season.

v B SWAATI CHAUDHURY Y

age group. There is no doubt that the weakening of the rupee has affected the outbound tourism sector to a certain extent but there are no such cancellations. More number of outbound global tourists prefer complete tour packages. There has been a marginal increase of around 10 to 15 per cent in both global and domestic travel. All the South-East

The peak travel season in Bengal during

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)

Asian carriers operating from Kolkata Airport

festive times is never dull and is always vibrat-

needs to look into the matter to sort out the cri-

like Thai Airways, Air Asia, Silk Air and Cathay

ing with life. With financial turmoil in Greece,

sis.” Churiwala also pointed out that airline

Pacific Airways are running full occupancy in

volatility in currency market, refugee crisis pre-

players are not paying commission to the

economy class during the festival days.” Ma-

vailing in Europe and the recent bomb blast in

travel agents.

niar also added that owing to school holidays,

Bangkok making news, nothing has deterred

Most holidayers are planning to visit domes-

the family leisure travellers from urban, upper

the wanderlust spirit of Bengal travellers. Al-

tic destinations like Gujarat, Jammu and Kash-

middle-class are flying to holiday destinations

though outbound travel to global destinations

mir, Kerala and Himachal Pradesh. Churiwala

while the upwardly mobile class with high dis-

have been affected to a certain extent, but all

said, “With Mihin Lanka Airlines operating from

posable income travels round the year.

airlines flying out of Kolkata Airport have full

Kolkata Airport, Sri Lanka is the emerging

South-East Asia aside, there are beach

occupancy in both business and economy

destination for Bengal outbound tourists.

destinations in India that are the current travel

class during the puja days.

There is around 30 to 40 per cent drop in out-

hotspots including the Andamans. Devesh

T& H interacts with prominent travel person-

bound global travel this time. It is mostly the

Kumar Agarwal, Chairman, Eastern region,

alities in Kolkata to find out the real situation

family and free individual travellers from urban,

TAAI, commented, “The Andaman Islands are

prevailing in the outbound travel sector of Ben-

middle and higher- income bracket who are

a good bet and tourists mostly go to visit the

gal during the upcoming festive season. Ac-

packing their bags to travel hotspots. Also the

Havelock Island. Even business class seats

cording to Rajendra Churiwala, Director,

offshore destinations like Dubai, Hong Kong,

are full in South-East Asian carriers flying out

Eastern Region, IATA Agents Association of

Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur that have direct

from Kolkata Airport during festival days. More

India, “The recent crash of the rupee against

flight connectivity from Kolkata are ruling the

number of tourists prefer to travel and utilize

the dollar has hiked the cost of global travel.

roost.”

their holidays but the flight seats are limited.

Outbound global travel is quite slow during this

Festive travel season in Bengal has never

Hence there exists a gap between demand

festive season as compared to previous years

been insipid and the current period is no such

and supply in outbound global travel during

owing to global recession. The current shape

exception. Sanjay Maniar, President, West

the peak travel season. The domestic air fares

of jute and steel industries is far from being

Bengal, IATA Agents Association of India said,

are dynamic and season-based. There is

sound and the overall industrial scenario is not

“The current festive period has been more en-

surge in both outbound domestic and global

so bright across the country. The airlines are

couraging than last year since more tourists

travel. Although there is rupee devaluation but

extorting huge money in the form of fuel sur-

are bitten by travel bug. South-East Asia is the

travel-crazy people make an all-out-effort to

charge and high cancellation fees. The bag-

biggest attraction for tourists from Bengal this

plan their holidays during the peak travel sea-

gage allowance has been reduced. The

time since it suits their budget and is for every

son in Bengal.”

12

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

TRADE

IWTE: a unique alliance for unique wildlife experiences & safaris in India ranga Tiger Reserve, Lion Safari Camp in Gir Na-

Purequest Adventures India, an arm of Le Passage To India, has allied with India’s finest, boutique jungle lodges to form a grand alliance for building and promoting wildlife tourism to India. The alliance, named as Indian Wildlife Travel Experts (IWTE), will work as a bridge between best safari operators overseas and boutique lodges in India.

tional Park and Rann Riders in Little Rann of Kutch.

The launch of IWTE was announced at an event in New Delhi, which was attended by representatives of LPTI, Purequest Adventures India and member lodge owners. The alliance will work together to market India’s wildlife tourism worldwide through its shared presence, whether at select

Mario Habig MD, Le Passage to India

“

travel fairs or through roadshows in source markets in association with the India Tourism offices.

The alliance aims to showcase the best wildlife ex-

tainable and responsible manner, Purequest Ad-

periences in India to the international tourists and

ventures, the adventure and wildlife arm of Le

wildlife enthusiasts through a collection of excel-

Passage to India has joined forces with wildlife ex-

lent itineraries. IWTE would highlight India’s wildlife

perts and select lodge owners across the country

potential at various international fora through ed-

to launch a first ever industry initiative – Indian

ucation, workshops and blogs.

Wildlife Travel Experts. This initiative as an alliance

The alliance will harness the expertise of lodge

between Purequest Adventures India and 16 unique safari lodges is a concerted effort to promote exceptional wildlife experiences in India.

Purequest Adventures India is a part of a global adventure platform with special interest in curating wildlife and safaris experiences in the sub-continent. PQA India promotes its specially crafted ex-

Indian Wildlife Travel Experts is an alliance between India’s finest, boutique jungle lodges and Purequest Adventures India for promoting responsible wildlife tourism to India. Selected carefully, each member of IWTE represents some of India’s most unique wildlife experiences.

periences through its 16 local offices in India.

I am very excited about the new venture as this is the first strategic and structured approach between the best safari lodges in India and a DMC to bring Indian wildlife on the global map. We have hand-picked best lodges as well as naturalists in the country who have put together exceptional experiences.

“

With an aim to promote wildlife tourism in a sus-

Explaining the methodology of the initiative, Prabhat Verma, Director- India, Purequest Adventures said, “The initiative will work as a bridge between best safari operators overseas and

The 16 lodge owners who are the members of

owners and wildlife experts who know the variety

boutique lodges in India. We will go out of our way

the alliance are Kipling Camp in Kanha Tiger Re-

of products available and Purequest Adventures

to educate our partners and create awareness of

serve, Jim’s Jungle Retreat in Corbett Tiger Re-

has a deep understanding of client preferences.

India’s magnificent wildlife wealth.”

serve, Sarai at Toria in Panna Tiger Reserve,

This alliance can derive benefits from its global

Svasara Jungle Lodge in Tadoba Tiger Reserve,

client access.

The IWTE will be a bridge between suppliers as well as clients while promoting ethical, eco-friendly

Forsyth Lodge in Satpura Tiger Reserve, Orange

Mario Habig, Managing Director, Le Passage to

sustainable practices. Endorsing this view, Belinda

County in Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, Chambal

India welcomed such an initiative and said, “To

Wright, OBE, Executive Director, Wildlife Protec-

Safari Lodge in National Chambal Wildlife Sanc-

conquer new frontiers it is important that things are

tion Society of India said, “Eventually it is us, in-

tuary, Sherbagh in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve,

done differently. I am very excited about the new

dustry members who must take responsibility for

Jawai Leopard Camp in Jawai - District Pali, Ra-

venture as this is the first strategic and structured

protecting wildlife and their natural habitat while

jasthan, Samode Safari Lodge in Bandhavgarh

approach between the best safari lodges in India

putting India on the world wildlife tourism map. The

Tiger Reserve, Blackbuck Lodge in Velavadar Na-

and a DMC to bring Indian wildlife on the global

alliance will benefit from the fact that the members

tional Park , Tree of Life Jaagir Lodge in Dudhwa

map. We have hand-picked best lodges as well as

are not driven purely by commercial gains but are

Tiger Reserve, Mary Budden Estate in Binsar

naturalists in the country who have put together

interested in showcasing the best of Indian

Wildlife Sanctuary, Diphlu River Lodge in Kazi-

exceptional experiences.”

wildlife.”

14

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

by T NH DESK

AVIATION

SpiceJet creates history in the Andamans!

Becomes first airline to perform a civilian night landing at Port Blair, opening new horizons for the growth and development of the Andamans.

Vistara Signs V2500 Engine Services Agreement with Pratt & Whitney Vistara, a TATA SIA JV and India’s fastest growing full service carrier, has signed a V-Services agreement to maintain its fleet of 26 V2500® engines.

SpiceJet, the country’s favourite low-cost carrier, accomplished yet another milestone after its flight SG-251 from Kolkata successfully carried out the first ever civilian airliner night landing at Veer Savarkar International Airport at Port Blair on September 11, 2015 at 6.10pm, 50 minutes after sunset at 5.20pm.

The V2500 engine is offered through IAE International Aero Engines

Under the command of Capt. Gurcharan Arora and Capt. Ranbir Singh,

AG, a multinational aero engine consortium whose shareholders com-

SpiceJet’s 212-seater Boeing 737-900ER aircraft VT-SLD was greeted

prise Pratt & Whitney (NYSE:UTX), Pratt & Whitney Aero Engines Inter-

upon arrival by a grand water cannon salute, an aviation tradition to mark

national GmbH, Japanese Aero Engines Corporation and MTU Aero

key milestones.

Engines.

The aircraft later departed for Kolkata at 6.45pm as SG-261, thereby

“Since our operational launch, we have been able to achieve on-time performance (OTP) in excess of 90% and we want to consistently main-

completing a cycle of landing and take-off from the Port Blair airport during the night time.

by TNH DESK

tain that superior level of service for our customers. We needed a reliable and effective maintenance partner and we are confident that the V-Services agreement with Pratt & Whitney will help us minimize unscheduled removal of engines and provide the highest standards of safety,” said Phee Teik Yeoh, CEO, Vistara.

Turkısh Airlines and Monocle unveil the top 20 emerging destinations and the top 20 dynamic cities The airline and the international lifestyle publication have launched two special projects - “Emerging Cities” on the printed magazine and ‘The Voyager’ on the Monocle 24 radio station – that will allow travelers to discover the newest, worth-discovering and most dynamic destinations worldwide.

Turkish Airlines and Monocle, two global brands, have joined forces in order to deliver travelers with a cutting-edge guide to the top 20 dynamic cities and to the top 20 emerging destinations, by launching a new radio program called “The Voyager” on Monocle 24 radio station and publishing a series of articles under the theme of “Emerging Cities” on Monocle Magazine.

The new “The Voyager” radio program will focus on 20 dynamic cities, dis-

“Vistara has done a remarkable job in its initial phase and we are excited to support this full service carrier as it continues to grow in the Indian market,” said Greg Gernhardt, president, Pratt & Whitney Commercial Engines. “Our job is to help Vistara, maintain a superior level of service with consistent high on-time performance and provide safe and reliable air travel for their customers as we take care of the engines.”

At present, Vistara offers 245 weekly frequencies to 10 destinations in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Goa, Guwahati and Bagdogra.

16

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

by T NH DESK

coverable thanks to the Turkish Airlines global network of connections.

AVIATION

Air India – The Brand That Connects Air India needs no introduction. Generations of air travelers in India and overseas have made Air India their airline of choice. The endearing Maharajah, the airline’s mascot, is symbolic of a service brand that has endured and grown.

When Air India came into being in 1932, it

work, Air India offers the best connectivity in

System’s implementation. Air India has always

pioneered civil aviation in India and carved for

the country. The air traveller is the direct ben-

been committed to the highest level of safety

itself a special place in India’s civil aviation his-

eficiary; the economy is the indirect one. Far-

in all its aspects of operations.It has met inter-

tory. Over the years, the airline has kept pace

flung areas of the North-East, Ladakh,

national best standards and practices apart

with trends and technology; changing con-

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, are brought

from meeting standards set by DGCA. The na-

sumer needs and preferences and, has

into the economic and social mainstream

tional airline was the first airline in India to ob-

evolved to successfully meet the challenges of

thanks to the lifeline offered by Air India flights.

tain IOSA and ISAGO (IATA Safety Audit of

the times. It is not just an airline that transports

No wonder, one of the main reasons for con-

Ground Operations) certifications.

people and cargo. It is an institution in itself.

sumers choosing Air India is its excellent con-

From standing by the nation during any cri-

The airline has assiduously built infrastructure

nectivity. Air India’s overseas reach covers 38

sis, reflecting the tradition and culture of the

like engineering and maintenance facilities,

destinations across USA, Europe, the Far-

country, or showcasing the strength of emerg-

well-equipped training schools and simulators

East, South-East Asia and the Middle-East.

ing India – Air India has always been identified

for pilot training and extensive ground handling

Air India has always delivered keeping con-

with India. Air India was part of the evacuation

facilities, all of which help to keep men and

sumer needs in mind. Be it connectivity, fre-

of Indians and other nationals from the war

material in top gear.

quency

service,

torn country of Yemen. Air India positioned two

of

flights,

on

board

Air India is also young at heart. Its 130 plus-

competitive pricing, aircraft comfort or cuisine,

of its A321 aircraft in Djibouti for the operation

strong fleet, a mix of B787 Dreamliners,

Air India has responded to passenger feed-

and evacuated 3614 people from Sana’a of

B777s,B737s,A320 family,apart from CRJs

back with improvements. Proof of this is its

which 682 were foreign nationals. While the

and ATR aircraft, is one of the youngest in the

frequent flyer loyalty programme Flying Re-

Yemen evacuation was still fresh in the minds

world. A key boost to the brand comes from

turns, with its huge base of nearly 15 lakh

of people the national carrier was again called

the comfort that these aircraft offer. Many of

members.

upon to bring back stranded people in the

Air India’s long haul flights are non-stop yet

Air India became the 27th member of Star

passengers have marvelled at the comfortable

Alliance - an elite global alliance of leading in-

Air India enjoys high brand equity, especially

flying experience. On the anvil is the introduc-

ternational carriers, in 2014. The national car-

with its premium Business and Overseas seg-

tion of Delhi -San Francisco from Dec 2015,

rier is the first airline from India to have been

ments. The airline also has excellent brand re-

one of the longest haul flights from India.

inducted into this prestigious group – thereby

call and endorsement - it has been rated the

scripting a new chapter in the annals of India’s

most trusted and dependable airline in the

domestic aviation.

country - winning the Readers Digest Trusted

Undoubtedly, the result of technologically advanced aircraft like the Dreamliner, which have made long flights truly dreamlike. Air India has 21 of these birds in its fleet.

With 67 domestic destinations on its net-

Air India has cleared the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) renewal successfully which also includes the Safety Management

quake devastated country of Nepal.

Brand Award for a record ten times and the ET award in 2014.

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

17

AVIATION

IndiGo enhances connectivity with new flights on its domestic network IndiGo introduces its 1st daily flight from Varanasi to Goa (via Mumbai). Also commences its 1st daily non-stop flight between Kolkata and Varanasi.

IndiGo, India’s largest and fastest growing airline and favorite on-time performer, is enhancing its customer experience in the domestic market with the launch of nine new flights connecting Bengaluru to Varanasi (via Kolkata), Varanasi to Mumbai, Ahmedabad to Pune, Delhi to Pune, Mum-

“We have a fair understanding of the potential of Mumbai traffic that receives regular feed from South India”

Owen Zhou Zengrong General Manager-India, China Eastern Airlines

Global airline symbolizing Eastern charm Spurred on by the prime motto to provide comfort to flyers, China Eastern Airlines offers economic fares for all segments of flyers.

v B SWAATI CHAUDHURY Y

bai to Goa, Bengaluru to Kolkata and Delhi to Lucknow. Furthermore,

In this era of global travel, prospective tourists who have a penchant

the airline is also introducing its first flight on the Varanasi-Goa (via Mum-

to travel to the Far East and the United States by China Eastern Airlines

bai), and Kolkata-Varanasi routes, effective September 01, 2015.

should plan their travel in advance to avail of competitive fares. Rated as the top five global airline player in terms of passenger transport volume, China Eastern Airlines is synonymous with world-class hospitality

Vistara forays into the Holy city of Varanasi Vistara recently announced bookings for its 12th destination – Varanasi. Starting October 21, 2015, Vistara will offer daily flight on the Delhi-Varanasi-Delhi route.

representing Eastern charm.

Headquartered in Shanghai, the airline player offers classy comfort to all its flyers including economy class. Owen Zhou Zengrong, General Manager-India, China Eastern Airlines explained, “Our airline serves nearly 80 million flyers annually and we are a prestigious member of Sky Team alliance. We are into offering Continental, Asian vegetarian and Indian cuisine to flyers travelling to long-haul destinations. Also on

Close on the heels of opening bookings for Bhubaneswar last month,

offer are Jain meals in our flights flying out of India for which flyers have

Vistara recently today announced bookings for its 12th destination –

to send their requests at least 72 hours in advance. Flyers travelling be-

Varanasi. Starting October 21, 2015 Vistara will offer daily flight on the

yond China in business and economy class are provided with two pieces

Delhi-Varanasi-Delhi route.Varanasi, one of the oldest and colorful cities

of baggage.”

of India, also regarded an abodeof Hinduism, is Vistara’s third destination in the northIndia after Delhi and Lucknow.

The airline flies out from New Delhi to Shanghai and also operates regular flight services from Kolkata to Kunming.

Tourists throng Varanasi to get the quintessential divine experience and enjoy the city’s unique mysticalcharm. Situated on the banks of the holy River Ganges, it is commonly known as Banaras. Roots of Varanasi can be traced back 5000 years and its existence has been noted in many Hindu scriptures. Being a popular commercial and industrial center, the city is famous for its muslin, perfumes, ivory works, sculptures and silk fabrics.

18

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

by TNH DESK

Strategies of China Eastern Airlines: •To connect Mumbai and Shanghai in the coming period.

•Offers competitive fares for all segments of flyers.

•Flyers travelling beyond China are provided with two pieces of baggage.

•Jain meals on offer for requests made 72 hours in advance.

AVIATION

Qatar Airways Expands its Dreamliner Service in India The airline will introduce the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to Kolkata on 1st December 2015. Additional Seat Capacity of more than 76% compared to current Kolkata operation.

Qatar Airways has announced an expansion of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner route network to India with the launch of services to and from Kolkata starting 1st De-

British Airways launches new and improved on Business Loyalty Programme Brings Customers Better Offers, Reward Discounts and Upgrades. Offers SMEs the opportunity to win a seat on an exclusive ‘Mentoring Flight' to Austin, Texas. which will helpsmall and medium sized businesses make

cember 2015.

The increase in demand for travel to and from the region and the airline’s stead-

even more of their travel budgets.The program brings together

fast commitment to the Indian market has resulted in the introduction of the state-

British Airways, Iberia and American Airlines business program

of-the-art Dreamliner on the daily flights between Doha and Kolkata bringing an

allowing customers to collect and spend on all three under one

additional capacity of more than 76% compared to the A320 which is being op-

scheme. The new and improved On Business programme,

erated on the route. Qatar Airways’ daily seat capacity to Kolkata has nearly dou-

which already saves customers £30million a year on flights,

bled from 144 seats on the A320 to 254 seats on the 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

now rewards points based on spend rather than distance trav-

Qatar Airways currently operates the 787 Dreamliner twice daily to capital city

elled or number of flights.

To mark the re-launch of On Business loyalty programme,

Delhi.

British Airways is delighted to offer SMEs the opportunity to win a seat on an exclusive mentoring flight to Austin, Texas the heartland of innovation in the USA. To enter the competition, eligible participants must complete the entry form on ba.com/flywithleaders and submit in approximately 150 words why they should be on the flight and the benefit that this would provide for their business or employer.

This presents a once in a lifetime opportunity for businesses to win a chance to interact, learn and share experience with

Flight Schedules from Kolkata to Doha are: Depart Kolkata QR541 at 03:15, arrive Doha at 06:25 Depart Doha QR540 at 18:45, arrive Kolkata at 01:45 next day

ace entrepreneur and mentoring experts, Josh Baer and Steve Welch from the Austin-based Capital Factory, known as a centre of gravity for start-ups in the United States.

Lufthansa introduces Premium Economy Class on Mumbai – Frankfurt and Mumbai – Munich Routes

Royal Jordanian, Turkish Airlines Sign Code Share Agreement Royal Jordanian (RJ) and Turkish Airlines (TK) have signed a Codeshare Agreement on routes between Jordan and Turkey on September 14.

The Codeshare Agreement on

As a special gesture, Lufthansa introduces inaugural fare of Rs 69,000 on its Mumbai – Frankfurt route for limited period

routes between the two airlinesis

Lufthansa Passenger Airlines announced the introduction of

two airlines. The agreement has

Premium Economy Class on its Mumbai-Frankfurt route effec-

came into effect since September

tive September 23, 2015 and Mumbai – Munich route effective

21, 2015.

October 26, 2015. Mumbai, after Bangalore and Delhi, be-

by TNH DESK

set to further expand travel opportunities for the customers of the

The signing ceremony took

comes the third city in India to welcome the Premium Economy

place at RJ’s headquarters in Amman. Royal Jordanian President/CEO Captain

offering.

Haitham Misto and Turkish Airlines Deputy Chairman and CEO Temel Kotil, PhD

As a special gesture for its customers, Lufthansa announced a special inaugural fare of Rs 69,000 on its Mumbai – Frankfurt route.

by T NH DESK

signed the deal in the presence of officials from both sides.

This new code share agreement is bound to broaden the commercial partnership between the two companies. At the same time, passengers of both airlines will be given more travel options between Jordan and Turkey.

by T NH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

19

TRADE

VFS Global launches Visa Application Centres for the Czech in India

The Czech Republic Visa Application Centres’ address: New Delhi centre No 15-26, Block E, 2nd Floor, International Trade Tower Nehru Place, New Delhi – 110019 Mumbai centre Trade Centre, 3rd floor, ‘G’ Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East), Mumbai – 400051 Helpline: 022-67866023 Email: Info.czechindia@vfshelpline.com

VFS Global has launched Visa Application Centres for the Embassy of the Czech Republic in New Delhi and Mumbai. For the first time the Embassy of the Czech Republic in India has outsourced its visa application process.

Catering to the growing interest in the Czech Republic as a travel destination, VFS Global has launched Visa Application Centres for the Em-

Vinay Malhotra COO – South Asia and DVPC, VFS Global

bassy of the Czech Republic in New Delhi and

Commenting on the initiative, Vinay Malhotra,

Mumbai. This is the first time the Embassy of the

COO – South Asia and DVPC, VFS Global, said,

Czech Republic in India has outsourced its visa

“We are honoured to partner with the Embassy

application process.

of the Czech Republic in India in providing serv-

The centre in New Delhi is located at No 15-

ices to facilitate the visa process to this beautiful

26, Block E, 2nd Floor, International Trade Tower,

European country that is fast emerging as a pop-

Nehru Place, New Delhi – 110019. In Mumbai,

ular destination for business and tourist travelers

the centre is located at Trade Centre, 3rd floor,

alike. We are committed to provide professional

‘G’ Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East),

and convenient services to applicants and are

Mumbai – 400051. Services at both locations

confident of delivering an efficient, world-class

commenced on 09 September 2015.

service that is safe and secure.”

Interest in the Czech Republic as a travel destination has been growing at a steady pace. In 2014, the Embassy of the Czech Republic received 9000 visa applications, and this year, received 7500 applications in the first six months alone, the Czech Republic Ambassador Designate H.E. Milan Kovorka said at a recent media briefing in Mumbai.

Speaking during the inauguration of the new centre in New Delhi, H.E. Milan Hovorka, Ambassador Designate for the Czech Republic in India, said, “The new visa facilities demonstrate continuous commitment of the Czech authorities to improve quality of service for visa applicants.

Their opening provides the right answer to the substantially increased interest in visiting the Czech Republic. I invite all to benefit fully from this new service.”

20

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

The key features of the centre include: Convenient and centrally-accessed location Professional staff with local language capability to handle queries and applications Automated queue governance for smooth flow of applicants Dedicated website for easy access to information including visa categories, requirements, check-list and applicable fees 100% secure handling of passports, documents and personal information SMS alerts for visa status update Door-step delivery of passports

Business hours (New Delhi): 0900hrs to 1700hrs (Monday to Friday) Business hours (Mumbai): 0800hrs to 1600hrs (Monday to Friday)

Timings in New Delhi: Submission Timings: 0900hrs – 1630hrs| Monday - Friday (except holidays as declared by the Embassy) Document Collection: 0900hrs – 1700hrs | Monday - Friday (except holidays as declared by the Embassy) Timings in Mumbai: Submission Timings: 0800hrs – 1200hrs and 1300hrs – 1530hrs| Monday - Friday (except holidays as declared by the Embassy) Document Collection: 0800hrs – 1600hrs | Monday - Friday (except holidays as declared by the Embassy) VFS Global will be responsible only for accepting applications for the Embassy of the Czech Republic. All applications submitted will continue to be assessed and processed by the Embassy of the Czech Republic.

Timelines for turnaround of visas are as per the discretion of the authorities.

GOVERNMENT

Gujarat Tourism Policy 2015-20 gives industry status to tourism Policy will offer capital subsidy for setting up new hotels in Gujarat.

In order to promote tourism in the state, Gujarat government under the leadership of Chief Minister Anandiben Patel announced the new tourism policy. Saurabhbhai Patel, Minister for Tourism, Gov-

Mission (1) To unlock the immense untapped/under tapped potential of tourism in the state (2) To develop tourism products and strengthen infrastructure

ernment of Gujarat said that “Since the foundation

(3) To undertake tourism-specific skill develop-

of Gujarat state, it is for the first time that Tourism

ment leading to gainful employment and self-em-

sector has been granted status of an industry

ployment especially for the local populace

under the leadership of Honorable Chief Minister

(4) To preserve and upgrade environment as

Anandiben Patel. With this initiative, tourism sector

also to encourage responsible tourism in the state

will now get all the benefits that industry gets.

The policy aims to create employment opportunities for over 20 lakh people by year 2025 with reforms in skills and knowledge development.

This new Tourism Policy is expected to attract fresh investments to the tune of Rs. 15,000 crore.

(5) To create an investment-friendly policy framework and suitably ensure access to requisite tourist infrastructural facilities (6) To focus on promotion and branding of Gujarat as a leading tourist destination the world over.

(5) To promote tourism for all segments off the society especially facilitating senior citizens, the differently-abled, homemakers, farmers and students by ensuring affordable accommodation and travel circuits (6) To provide tourism infrastructure in terms of tourist information, transport services, accommodation and way-side amenities (7) To enhance the use of ICT in the sector and further improve the quality of services (8) To upgrade skills, knowledge and professionalism and promote employment opportunities for additional two million persons by 2025 (9) To promote responsible tourism in the state

Objectives

and develop tourism products in an environment friendly manner

The new policy will give greater encouragement

(1) To make Gujarat one amongst the top five

for self-employment. Professionals in Khadi,

tourist states of India in terms of local, national and

Handicraft and other such sector will also benefit

international tourists footfalls by 2025

a lot.

repeat visits

(2) To attract the MICE segment by creating

Highlight of New Tourism Policy 2015-2020

convention/exhibition facility and support infra-

Vision

structure

(10) To create enabling framework for public-private partnerships in developing tourism products, projects and services Policy period and coverage This policy shall come into force with effect from

To position Gujarat as a vibrant tourist destina-

(3) To leverage innovative forms of tourism such

the date of issuance of the policy GR and shall re-

tion, with an emphasis on improving visitor expe-

as adventure, cruise, event-based, inland water-

main in force till 31st March, 2020 or till the decla-

rience,

ways, medical and others

ration of a new or revised policy, whichever is

livelihood

linkages,

environmental

concerns and enhancing investment opportunities.

(4) To develop diverse tourism packages and

earlier.

products to augment tourist stay and encourage

Muziris wins PATA Gold Honour for Kerala Tourism Hailed for global leadership and innovation in tourism practices.

by TNH DESK

held during PATA Travel Mart in Bangalore.

Kerala Tourism was awarded the PATA Gold in the Heritage and Culture category, honouring the state tourism department's leadership in carrying out the Muziris Heritage Project.

The PATA awards, which are sponsored by the Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO),

Kerala Tourism was bestowed the top Pacific

praised Kerala Tourism for the Muziris project's con-

mar. "Muziris Heritage Project is a mammoth con-

Asia Travel Association (PATA) Award for heritage

servational aspect, uniqueness and impact on local

servation undertaking never before attempted in

conservation in an honour that highlights the state's

community.

our country in recent times in terms of its size and

trendsetting efforts in reinventing the millennia-old Spice Route heritage.

"The award is an acknowledgement of the initia-

scale."

tive to bring back our tradition and history for the

Kerala Tourism Secretary Shri G Kamala Vard-

The international award, which recognises excel-

sake of the modern generation and through it

hana Rao received the award at the ceremony held

lence and innovation in global tourism practices,

achieve the goal of growth and development for our

at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre

was presented to Kerala at a awards ceremony

people," said Kerala Tourism Minister AP Anilku-

during the PATA Travel Mart.

22

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

by T NH DESK

GOVERNMENT

The President gives away National Tourism Awards 2013-14 President Pranab Mukherjee presented the National Tourism Awards 2013-14 at a function held at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi recently.

Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated the award winners and said that these exceptional individuals and institutions who have been felicitated today have distinguished themselves through their dedication in promoting India as a tourist destination. He said that broader social contacts between tourists and receiving communities go a long way in enhancing mutual understanding, tolerance, and awareness between peoples. India offers one of the best tourism experiences in the world, he added.

this objective. He emphasized that the safety

an ‘Industry of Smiles’ and the Government gives

The President said that with the growth of the

mechanisms that we create, the precautions that

top priority to Swachhta, Suraksha and hospital-

Indian economy and the increase in disposable

we put in place must reassure our guests - so that

ity as the 3 pillars of tourism promotion in the

income of the people, we may expect tourist in-

they never have to be apprehensive about their

country. Highlighting the recent steps taken by the

flows to remain on a positive trajectory in the

personal safety or that of their belongings.

Government, Dr. Mahesh Sharma said that Wel-

years to come. We must pay focussed attention

Highlighting the contribution of tourism to the

come Booklet is being distributed at the Interna-

to the building of a high quality tourism infrastruc-

economy, the Union Minister of State for Tourism

tional Airports, giving important information

ture in the country. The launch of two initiatives -

(Independent Charge), Culture (Independent

including Dos and Don’ts to the foreign travellers.

Swadesh Darshan and PRASAD (Pilgrimage Re-

Charge), Civil Aviation, Dr. Mahesh Sharma said

Similarly, 24X7 helpline has been set up which is

juvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) -

that the country earned Rs1,23,000 Crore rupees

currently functional in Hindi and English and will

aiming at integrated development of circuits and

of foreign exchange through tourism last year . It

soon be functional in 12 International languages.

pilgrim centres would go a long way in achieving

contributes 6.8% to the GDP. Tourism, he said is

by T NH DESK

the flow of MICE tourists. Santosh Mishra said, “We

Chhattisgarh Tourism kicks off unique, niche tourism products

have kicked off infrastructure development to cater to the needs of MICE tourists. Dandamani Tourist Resort at Chitrakote in the vicinity of Chitrakote waterfall has been rated as one of the best properties

Santosh Mishra Special Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Government of Chhattisgarh

In its latest initiative, Chhattisgarh Tourism Board has introduced one-of-a-kind tourism products and is looking ahead to promote the state as one of the most popular Buddhist hotspots across the globe.

with facilities for MICE tourists. Besides this, some of our existing conference and convention facilities for MICE tourists are Huien Tsang in Sirpur and exhibition facilities at Johar Chhattisgarh in Raipur. Convention centres are coming up in Raipur.”

The land of Chhattisgarh with its profound her-

out the niche products. We are offering a boost to

The state has experienced an upswing in the

itage, ethnic tribes and vast forest cover provides

water sports in a major way and we are thinking of

growth of domestic tourists over the last couple of

tremendous scope for a plethora of adventure activ-

popularizing cycle tours, hill biking, camping sites

years. Santosh Mishra added, “The domestic tourist

ities. Keeping in mind that coming-of-age tourists are

and caravan tourism. We are trying to tap the South-

arrivals are on the rise at a rate of 12 to 15 per cent

inclined to gain rich experiences and are more inter-

East Asian tourist market since we intend to make

on an annual basis over the past few years. We have

ested in niche destinations and products, Chhattis-

the state as one of the most preferred Buddhist des-

received around 2.54 crore travellers last year. Global

garh Tourism Board has rolled out some interesting

tinations across the world. We are into aggressive

tourists constitute minuscule number since we are

projects that are rarely found in Central India.

promotion of the tourism potential of our state and

not virtually on the radar of global tourists. However,

Santosh Mishra, Special Secretary, Tourism and

we are eyeing tourists from the states of Gujarat,

we are making an effort to woo more number of

Culture, Government of Chhattisgarh explained,

West Bengal, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. We

global tourists and we are initially starting with draw-

“Quite recently, we have come up with two novel

hope to receive sound tourist footfall from these

ing 5,000 global travellers into our state every year.

products- Sirpur Heritage Walk and Walking with the

states.”

We would gradually increase the global tourist footfall

tribe. The tourism board has entered into an agree-

Chhattisgarh is an emerging MICE destination

ment with New Delhi-based India City Walks to roll

and its promotional activities are targeted to develop

24

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

by focusing on tourists from South-East Asia and the Far East.”

by TNH DESK

GOVERNMENT

award. We are extremely proud to be the pioneer in establishing an International Convention Centre in Agra. Jaypee Palace Hotel & International Convention Centre at Agra is par excellence as we set benchmarks each year for meetings and

Jaypee Palace & International Convention Centre, Agra awarded Best Meeting Venue Hotel at National Tourism Awards 2013-14

conventions. Jaypee Palace Hotel & InternaJaypee Palace and Convention Centre, Agra

tional Convention Centre has always created

has been conferred the National Tourism Award

something unique in all its ventures and this is

under the category ‘Best Hotel Based Meeting

recognition for our endeavours. ”

Venue Hotel’ recognizing their performance in

Jaypee Palace Hotel and International Con-

hospitality industry. The award was presented to

vention Centre, Agra was commissioned in

Manju Sharma, Managing Director, Jaypee Ho-

March 1999. A hotel par excellence, it blends the

tels and Resorts by President of India, Pranab

luxury of five star deluxe comforts. The regal

Mukherjee and Mahesh Sharma, Minister of

hotel is a glorious structural blend of red sand-

State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Tourism

stone and marble complementing city’s architec-

& Culture, at a function held at Vigyan Bhawan,

ture and is spread over an unbounded 25 acres

New Delhi.

of elegantly landscaped luxuriant greenery.

Manju Sharma, on this special occasion said, “We are honoured to receive this prestigious

by TNH DESK

Kairali takes on a unique Leh Road trip to spread good health Kairali came up with a unique concept wherein it invited people from all walks of life to join them in a bike rally to raise awareness and spread good health across the globe through yoga and Ayurveda, for the welfare of the people.

A group that comprisedof journalists, business

with getting acclimatized, wonderful workshops

owners, NGO workers, corporates and Kairali

of Yoga were conducted for the local villagers.

employees travelled from Delhi-Leh-Srinagar-

These workshops were really well received and

Delhiin of 8 bikes and a car to spread the mes-

enjoyed.

sage of Good Health through ancient Indian

From Manali to Leh it was a 3 day trip with

As you decent into Leh slowly you are wrapped in a feeling of peace and solitude are

halts in Keylong and Sarchu. Manali to Leh road

greeted by

With lot of cheer, goodwill and enthusiasm

trip is an unforgettable journey of about 475km

and Thiksey monasteries. After a rest at Leh the

that was almost infectious the trip was flagged

into enthralling valleys, craggy terrains, striking

group proceeded towards Nubra Valley. To the

off early morning from Indrasprastha Park, New

mountains and attractive landscapes. Navigat-

north-west of Leh lies Nubra Valley, accessed by

Delhi on4th August 2015. On Day 1 after riding

ing through winding roads and High Mountain

the snow-bound KhardungLa, which at 18,380

all day the team reached picturesque Manali and

passes that almost touches the sky – this route

feet, is considered the highest motorable road in

stayed on for two days. In these two days, along

awed everyone with its incredible beauty.

the world.

sciences of Yoga and Ayurveda.

26

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

magnificent and legendary Shey

by TNH DESK

GOVERNMENT

submitted to the Union Minister for Tourism, the state has sought the clearance of a Rs 283-crore Pilgrim Tourism Circuit (with focus on Anantha Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram), a coastal tourism project of Rs 108 crore, an eco-tourism project of Rs 77 crore (of which Rs 52 crore is for Vagamon-Thekkady and the rest Rs 25 crore for Gavi in Pathanamthitta district) and Rs 100 crore for Nila Tourism Project.

“Of this, the Centre has assured the clearance of Rs 100 crore for the Pilgrim Tourism Project,” the minister added.

The 1981-founded Kerala Tourism, which is headquartered in the state capital Thiruvananthapuram, is a government organisation that undertakes policy formulation, implementation of

Kerala bags highest awards at National Tourism Awards 2013-14 Kerala received 10 accolades at the National Tourism Awards 2013-14 held in New Delhi.

Kerala Tourism got four awards whereas six went to the state’s private entrepreneurs

projects and marketing of ‘God’s Own Country’ as a tourist destination.

Kerala Tourism Secretary G Kamala Vardhana Rao said the establishment has been consistently striving to position the state as a global destination with a focus on sustaining and preserving the land’s nature, culture and tradition.

“We have managed to make the destination a

Imaginative ventures backed by precise exe-

known brand in key source markets,” he added.

cution enabled Kerala to bag the largest number

As for the German-language brochure, it de-

of honours at the 2013-14 National Tourism

scribes new experiences in Kerala, by showcas-

Awards distributed today, as President Pranab

ing its variety mouth-watering cuisine, adventure

Mukherjee conferred the southern state’s

trails and shopping opportunities. It features a

tourism ventures with a total of ten titles.

Kerala Culinary Trail that takes readers on a jour-

While the Kerala Tourism Department got four

ney to discover the historical, geographical and

awards in categories ranging from literature to

cultural facets of Kerala’s rich cooking tradition.

cinema to IT to a pioneering project involving

The Kerala Adventure Trail takes readers across

local people, the state’s private entrepreneurs in

tourism.org won the award in the category for the

the hills and mountains, beaches and backwa-

the industry got six.

Best Website, even as its novel Thekkady initia-

ters, tropical rainforests and grasslands to pres-

Kerala Minister for Tourism A P Anilkumar re-

tive enabled it to share the top honours for the

ent the intense e counters with nature possible

ceived the National Tourism Awards for Excel-

much-touted Responsible Tourism Project which

only in God’s Own Country. The Shopping Trail

lence in Publishing Foreign Language, Best

encompasses all forms of tourism that seek to

unearths the shopping delights, throwing light on

Tourism Film, Most Innovative Use of Information

minimize negative economic, environment and

the variety of souvenirs and products available in

Technology and, fourthly, for its success in Re-

social impacts.

the state.

sponsible Tourism Project. The function held in

In the private sector, the awardees were: Dra-

The award-winning film, which had also won

the national capital was attended, among others,

vidian Trail (in Foreign Exchange Earnings), Co-

the Golden City Gate Award 2015, in Berlin

by Union Minister of State for Tourism & Culture

conut Creek Farm (Bed & Breakfast), Coconut

showcases typical Kerala life around the back-

Dr Mahesh Sharma.

Lagoon (Heritage Classic Category), Marari

waters: fishing, toddy tapping, farming and boat-

While it was a German brochure kit headlined

Beach Resort (3-star hotels), Vivanta By Taj, Ku-

racing—all around the ubiquitous presence of

‘Eat Shop Trek’ aimed at wooing the tourists of

marakom (4-star) and Somatheeram Research

water. With its perspectives, shown across three

that Western European country that won Kerala

Institute & Ayurveda Hospital (Wellness Centre).

different topographical variations commonly vis-

Tourism the award for Excellent in Publishing

Minister Anilkumar, after receiving the award,

ible in the backwater world—the river network,

Foreign Language, a movie titled ‘The Great

said Kerala has submitted to the Centre a multi-

the lakes and the islands—the film brings life in

Backwaters of Kerala’ earned recognition as the

project plan worth Rs 568 crore that aims to

its freshness around these diverse terrain.

Best Tourist Film. The portal www.kerala-

boost the state’s tourism profile. In a proposal

by T NH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

27

GOVERNMENT

Focusing attention on safety and progres JTDCL has identified three tourist circuits- Jain, Buddhist and nature throwing plenty of choices for all segments of tourists.

Dr. Alok Prasad Deputy General Manager, JTDCL

v B SWAATI CHAUDHURY

Attractions from the land of Kanchenjunga and rhododendrons Sikkim, the Himalayan land where nature smiles is calling tourists with a string of amazing festivals during the upcoming festive season.

v B SWAATI CHAUDHURY Y

For mountain lovers, here’s a piece of good news to cheer about. Sikkim

Y

Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) is gearing up in full swing to

For tourists who have a yen for adventure and wildlife, the best desti-

receive a large number of domestic and global tourists during the upcom-

nation that is quite wallet-friendly is beyond doubt Jharkhand. The land is

ing festive season. For the first time, STDC is going all out to host Interna-

steeped in vast swathes of wilderness and has a plethora of pilgrim points

tional Travel Mart at Saramsa Garden in Gangtok. The three day

for Hindus, Buddhists and Jains alike. In its latest initiative, Jharkhand

extravaganza will be held from October 14 to 16 with cultural festivals.

Tourism has embarked upon a new journey in the vertical of tourism de-

STDC has a host of festivals lined up in the coming months. Bineeta Rai,

velopment. Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation Limited

Chief Executive Officer, STDC stated, “The Himalayan state has a tremen-

(JTDCL) has come up with a gamut of interesting projects to bolster its

dous potential for adventure tourism and we are trying our best to tap

tourism. Dr. Alok Prasad, Deputy General Manager, JTDCL stated, “We

global adventure tourists from Europe. We are all set to organize 1st Inter-

have kicked off adventure tourism activities like mountain climbing, rope

national Kanchenjunga High Altitude Marathon at Yuksam in West Sikkim

climbing and water motor boats for adventure tourists in the state. We

sometime in the months of October and November. We are exploring the

have appointed locals as Paryatak Mitra to offer help to tourists and these

tourism industry of South India to pull in

include life savers and security guards. We would appoint tourist police in

domestic tourists.”

order to make travellers travel safe in the interior areas of the state. At the

Sikkim is the land where rhododen-

same time, we are into providing tourist vehicles for tourists going to dif-

drons bloom in abundance and the

ferent points at a reasonable rate.”

tourism department has mulled plans to

JTDCL has come up with hotels, wayside amenities at pilgrim points,

come up with International Flower Festi-

waterfalls, dams, highways, wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that

val in Gangtok sometime in the year-

“

are managed by trained professionals. “We have developed

end.

Rai

informed,

“The

state

three major tourist circuits- Jain Circuit, Buddhist Cir-

government has opened the new route

cuit and Nature Circuit. Very soon, we are coming

for Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra through

up with our website that would help online

Nathu La Pass in Sikkim in the current

booking of all tourism facilities inclusive of

year. Nearly 215 pilgrims have com-

transportation,” informed Dr. Prasad. The

pleted the holy trail through the Nathu La

land has an array of national parks like

Pass that was on from June 17 to August

Betla National Park and Palamau Na-

20.”

We have appointed locals as Paryatak Mitra to offer help to tourists and these include life savers and security guards

“

The state government has opened the new route for Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra through Nathu La Pass in Sikkim in the current year Bineeta Rai Chief Executive Officer, STDC

tional Park flaunting diverse flora and fauna. “We are pulling Jain tourists from the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. We are looking at Thailand,

Sri Lanka, Korea and Japan to entice Buddhist tourists into the state. Around 1.5 lakh global tourists and 3 crore domestic tourists dropped into our state last year.

‘Centre to promote Medical & Wellness Tourism through a focused approach’ The government will take strict action against travel agents/tour operators using Incredible India brand without permission.

We are expecting 4 crore domestic tourists this year,” Dr. Prasad added.

The Ministry of Tourism has announced the establishment of the Medical

The highest number of domestic tourists visiting the state is from West

& Wellness Tourism Board and its functioning on the occasion of World

Bengal. The state has caught the fancy of global tourists from Sri Lanka,

Tourism Day on 27th September 2015. The Minister of State for Culture (In-

Bhutan and Bangladesh. The tourism corporation is into promoting lesser-

dependent Charge), Tourism (Independent Charge) and Civil Aviation, Dr.

known tourist spots. “We are promoting Maluti as a prime destination that

Mahesh Sharma informed this while interacting live on the social media with

has attracted the attention of global tourists at the Republic Day parade

BBC Hindi in New Delhi. Dr Mahesh Sharma said that there will now be a fo-

held in New Delhi this year,” further added Dr. Prasad. Maluti, a small town

cused approach to Medical Tourism& all the information will be made avail-

in Shikaripara of Dumka district has 72 old shrines that are edifices of the

able on a single portal. The Minister disclosed that information dissemination

kings of Pala dynasty.

will also take place through the 14 overseas offices of the Ministry of Tourism.

28

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

COVER STORY

NTP 2015:

NATIONAL TOURISM POLICY 2015

by 4.3 per cent (Internationally the figure grew by 4 per cent in 2012) and 5.9 per cent in 2012

Still in The Making

and 2013 respectively.

However, this is the first time since the

Tourism industry’s expectations from the government begins to show signs of abatement on the promised ‘deliverance’, ‘time-lines’ and accountability. The inordinate delay in finalising and announcing the new tourism policy is at the cost millions of new employment opportunity and economic growth for the country

v

BY SHAYAN

“From now on, a new work culture will be implemented in which a task will be identified and a person assigned for the task. The timeline will also be fixed and the implementation will be closely monitored.”

Dr. Mahesh Sharma

MALLICK

tourism boom over 12 years (Since 2003) ago that arrivals to India have gone below the world average if we compare the current international tourist arrival figures into the country with that of the latest available figures of annual global tourism growth for 2014. Interna-

Dying Euphoria

on deliverance, time-lines and accountability

tional tourist arrivals to India grew at a rate of

When Narendra Modi became the first Prime

which were much propagated earlier but lot

4.5 per cent in the first eight months (January-

Ministerial candidate ever to put ‘Tourism’ in

less noised now.

August) this year as against 4.7 per cent, rate

the spotlight as part of his ‘5Ts’ electoral plank

The current state of India tourism, particu-

in the run up to the last year national elections,

larly for inbound, with its dwindling growth rate

This is certainly not a happy story. In order

the entire tourism industry across the country

is serious concern for all. And the govern-

to achieve the once-again-revised target of in-

and across its various sub-sectors were jubi-

ment’s failure to deliver the new tourism policy

ternational arrivals, FTA will need to be in the

lant. Not only had the industry overwhelmingly

(National Tourism Policy 2015) that will provide

region of 15 million by 2020 from 7.68 million

voted for his election, his landslide victory was

the overarching direction to the country’s

in 2014. This means the number needs to dou-

celebrated vigorously by most as tourism now

tourism sector on time will only further jeopar-

ble over the six year period (2014-2020) and

had the most ‘distinctive voice’ in the PM him-

dise the new revised targets (Current target is

average annual growth rate required will be

self and that the sector will now find a promi-

to achieve 1 per cent market share in interna-

around 15-16 per cent.

nent place in the Government’s various

tional arrivals of global tourism by 2020) that

policies like ‘foreign’, ‘trade’ and other strategic

we keep hearing about.

areas.

at which global tourism grew last year.

Highly unlikely if we do not have a tourism policy that’s a ‘watershed’ and hence lose opportunity of creating millions of job that

That the industry has been a loyal and vocal

The current state

tourism, as one of the most employment inten-

support and lavish in the use of adjectives for

According to United Nation World Tourism Or-

sive sectors, promises to a job

the Government in the hope of better future for

ganisation (UNWTO), international tourist ar-

starved, deeply hinterland-ed,

tourism, there is also a tendency across sec-

rivals reached 1,138 million in 2014, a 4.7 per

terrorism and naxal affected

tors to hail those in power and rarely criticise.

cent increase over the previous year. In India,

Anyway, a year and half later have things

international tourist arrivals reached 7.68 mil-

started rolling for the hitherto loyal tourism

lion in 2014 recording a growth of 10.2 per

sector as was expected by most, if not all?

cent. International tourist arrivals to India grew

Definitely not. If social media posts are any indication then the chinks are beginning to show in many of the diehard believers’

INVE

STOR

expectation from the government

MOT

30

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

COVER STORY frameworks.

country like ours.

TAAI, ITTA, IHHA, AIRDA, ADTOI among others.

These are and will be the cost of failure to deliver an effective and delayed National

NTP 2015 in the making

Tourism Policy 2015.

In probably what was his first major interaction

The industry continues awaiting the new tourism policy even after a good four and half months! Some even say (But not ready to the

Addressing participants at a workshop held on the formulation of NTP 2015 on March 18th earlier this year, Minister of State for Tourism & Culture (Independent Charge) and Civil Aviation, Sharma had announced that the new tourism Policy will be launched on May 15. The announcement was made in the presence of several industry bodies including FAITH, IATO, TAAI, ITTA, IHHA, AIRDA, ADTOI among others.

Turkey, Thailand Shining Examples The determination of Turkish Tourism saw the international arrival numbers climb from just 8 million in 2000 to over 21 million in 2005. And since then the number has climbed close to 40 million today making it the 6th most visited tourist destination on the planet.

Both Turkey and India received 1.2 million international tourist arrivals in 1980. Today as India is inching towards where Turkey was in 2000 (8 Million), Turkish arrival figures are hovering around 40 Million!

Neighbouring Thailand has grown from just

‘bell the cat’ by coming out in the open) that the NTP 2015 could very well have been NTP 2014, but now it looks more likely that what finally comes out will be NTP 2016!

While highlighting that Prime Minister Modi is working as the greatest Ambassador of Tourism for the country Sharma had said that his efforts will be taken forward rapidly by the Ministry of Tourism. Notably the minister had also firmly committed that “from now on, a new work culture will be implemented in which a task will be identified and a person assigned for the task. The timeline will also be fixed and the implementation will be closely monitored.”

over 14 million in 2009 to about 25 million last year, growing by a whopping 80 per cent dur-

with the industry at a meeting co-ordinated by

The industry stakeholders who had wel-

ing the five year period. However, for the same

FAITH in association with Ministry of Tourism

comed and hailed now await the actualisation

period international tourist arrivals into India

and Ministry of Civil Aviation in January this

of the ‘new work culture’ that was promised.

has grown from 5.17 million in 2009 to 7.68

year at Le Meridien Delhi, Dr. Mahesh

million last year, growing by about 50 per cent

Sharma, Minister of State for Tourism & Cul-

Price we pay

for the same period.

ture (Independent Charge) and Civil Aviation,

Now this is no minor or harmless delay and

Turkey and Thailand are shinning example

had sent out a strong assurance to the indus-

the damage to MOT’s appeal to the industry,

of constant success that our country cannot

try stakeholders to work in a time-bound man-

its reputation as well as to India tourism is im-

much boast of other than the golden phase of

ner.

mense as the new tourism policy is expected

growth that India had between 2003 and 2007.

While addressing the concerns of the air-

to fill the gaps and improve upon the previous

Or Australia’s policy progress that has in-

lines at the meeting, the Minister had stated

policy in order to attain the objective of faster,

that their issues and concerns will be ad-

inclusive and responsible growth for the sec-

dressed in a single-window, time-bound man-

tor.

Both Turkey and India received 1.2 million international tourist arrivals in 1980. Today as India is inching towards where Turkey was in 2000 (8 Million), Turkish arrival figures are hovering around 40 Million! cluded ‘Tourism’ in the ‘Ministry of Trade & Investment’ portfolio giving so much more scope for the Australians to make tourism a key compo-

INDUSTRY

ner from “today onwards.” “Give us three days

NTP 2015 will not only be the guiding prin-

to have the house organised and we will de-

cipal but will help the policy makers and indus-

clare the time frame within which the issues

try respond to new challenges and emerging

will be addressed,” he had said in response to

opportunity in an effective and time-bound

issues raised by an airline executive and in

manner. And therefore this delay is at the cost

line with the new government’s commitment to

of millions of new employment opportunity and

the people that the government will take up is-

economic growth for the country.

sues and concerns and initiatives in a timebound manner.

These are high-stake and no ordinary statements from the government.

Whether or not the current leadership bear responsibility, the accountability for the delay must be fixed and pointed at. It is high time Sharma delivered upon his promise of system

nent of their ‘foreign’, ‘trade’

Addressing participants at a workshop held

overhaul in order to deliver the “new work cul-

and other key policy

on the formulation of NTP 2015 on March 18th

ture in which a task will be identified, people

earlier this year, Minister of State for Tourism

will be assigned for the task, timeline will be

& Culture (Independent Charge) and Civil Avi-

fixed and implementation closely monitored.”

ation, Sharma had announced that the new

But first and foremost deliver the National

tourism Policy will be launched on May 15. The

Tourism Policy 2015.

announcement was made in the presence of several industry bodies including FAITH, IATO,

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

31

GOVERNMENT

MoT launches several new initiatives on World Tourism Day On the occasion of World Tourism Day, Union Ministry of Tourism announced the formation of Medical and Wellness Tourism Board.

The ministry also announced the Tourism Vision Document 2030.

same for the purpose of promoting tourism. It is

Development Corporation Ltd.,(ITDC) a PSU

for this reason that the Government took the im-

under Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India. As part

The Union Minister of State for Tourism(Inde-

portant decision of setting up the Medical and

of its contribution towards supplying trained man-

pendent Charge) , Culture (Independent Charge),

Wellness Tourism Promotion Board. The Board

power to the Hospitality Industry, ITDC has envi-

and Civil Aviation, Dr Mahesh Sharma an-

will have a corpus fund of Rs 2 crore initially, the

sioned to set up a Centre of Excellence in

nounced the constitution of the Medical and Well-

Minister disclosed. Dr Mahesh Sharma said that

Hospitality Education at Hotel Samrat, New Delhi.

ness Tourism Promotion Board at a function in

the AYUSH facilities will be promoted along with

The courses offered by AIH&TM are a blend of

New Delhi today. The Board has been formed to

regular medical facilities.

the rich heritage and culture of India and hospi-

tap the potential and advantages that India has in the field of medical and wellness tourism. The

The details of some of the new initiatives launched today are as below:

tality management education system. It provides the students with a world class contemporary ed-

Centre of Excellence in Hospitality Education to

Medical and Wellness Tourism Promotion

operate from Hotel Samrat in New Delhi was also

Board: The Board will provide leadership of the

Tourism Vision Document 2030: The docu-

inaugurated at today’s function. Release of

Government within a framework of prudent and

ment goes into the challenges for the sector and

Tourism Vision Document 2030, launch of the re-

effective measures, thereby enabling promotion

details the way towards Vision 2030. ‘Tourism vi-

vamped

Tourism

and positioning of India as a competent and cred-

sion 2030’ has been commissioned by the Expe-

http://tourism.gov.in/ which has now been made

ible medical and wellness tourism destination.

rience India Society and prepared by KPMG.

bilingual, release of Audio Visual Presentation ‘In-

The Board will be chaired by the Union Tourism

Launch of Bi-Lingual Website of Ministry of

troduction to India’ and a seminar on the theme

Minister and consists of members representing

Tourism: The official website of the Ministry

of World Tourism Day 2015 “One Billion Tourist,

the related Government Departments, Tourism &

http://tourism.gov.in/ has been revamped and

One Billion Opportunities” were some of the other

Hospitality sector and experts in the Medical,

translated in Hindi. This Administrative website of

highlights of today’s function on the occasion of

Wellness and Yoga.

the Ministry of Tourism contains the activities and

website

of

Ministry

of

World Tourism Day.

ucation to have an edge over others in the field.

Ashok Institute of Hospitality & Tourism

information of all the divisions of the Ministry in-

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mahesh Sharma

Management – Centre of Excellence : The

cluding the web based E-Recognition System for

said that low cost medical facilities are India’s

Ashok Institute of Hospitality & Tourism Manage-

recognition of Travel Trade Service Providers and

strength and we must take advantage of the

ment is part of the HRD division of India Tourism

Approval and Classification of Hotels.

Audio Visual Presentation ‘ Introduction to India’ : The Indian Association of Tour Operators, the Apex Body of Tourism Industry and especially promoting inbound tourism to our country has produced a 6 minutes AV presentation depicting all tourism products of India and a element of human engagement with the various tourism products . This video presentation is to be used

by IATO in all its promotional activities including Road Shows, international travel marts and other industry Interactions.

32

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

by TNH DESK

HOSPITALITY

Renaissance Hotels Debuts in North India Renaissance Hotels has opened its first hotel in North India, in the city of Lucknow.

With 16 floors and 112 stylish rooms, it is the

The Renaissance Lucknow Hotel features a

hotel patisserie that specializes in freshly baked

tallest hotel to open in Lucknow and offers stun-

contemporary design that is juxtaposed against

pastries, sandwiches, cakes and brewed coffee;

ning views of the Gomti River and the city’s land-

the heritage background of Lucknow. The cen-

and the Sky Bar – the poolside bar located on

scape.

trally located hotel provides easy access to busi-

the 16th floor offering exquisite wines, cheese

Renaissance Lucknow Hotel is the brand’s

ness hubs as well as popular leisure destinations

boards and an exclusive range of International

second hotel in India after almost 14 years, with

in the city. Designed with refined sophistication

beverages. Leisure facilities at the hotel also in-

the first Renaissance hotel being based out of

and exuberant fun, the Renaissance Lucknow

clude a well-equipped fitness centre, a yoga stu-

Mumbai city. Marking the occasion said Rajeev

Hotel has 96 tastefully appointed rooms and 16

dio and a rooftop infinity pool and Jacuzzi.

Menon, Chief Operating Offer – Asia Pacific (ex-

suites that offer modern luxury and unparalleled

Conveniently located in Lucknow city centre,

cluding Greater China), Marriott International.

convenience to its guests. All guest rooms fea-

the hotel offers extensive facilities for social

“Lucknow is fast emerging as a cultural and busi-

ture cotton rich linen, 42-inch LED HD televi-

events and meetings. Spread over 26,000 sq ft,

ness hub in Uttar Pradesh and makes for the

sions, spacious work and seating areas

the versatile indoor and outdoor space features

perfect location for a Renaissance Hotel. Renais-

along-with a modern three-point bathroom.

the Renaissance Hotels signature R.E.N. meet-

sance Hotels is a global, lifestyle hospitality

The hotel features a variety of dining options

ings program, designed to bring live entertain-

brand that seeks to inspire and provoke its

that include L – 14, the international cuisine all

ment and the best of the local destination to your

guests to discover something new and different

day dining restaurant; Sepia – the Awadhi spe-

business or social gathering.

each and every time they visit.”

ciality fine dining restaurant; Coffee & Cakes - the

by T NH DESK

The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Kerala:

occupancy, Breakfast, lunch and dinner each day on-

perfect way to experience backwaters of Kerala

seeing excursion with a guide, evening entertainment

board The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Kerala, sightand Airport transfers. The offer is valid for a minimum

Discover the Backwaters of Kerala on a two nights or three nights Itinerary on-board The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda!

two night itinerary. All applicable taxes.

by TNH DESK

The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Kerala is the perfect way to experience the picturesque backwaters of Kerala, one of India's most enchanting holiday destinations. Discover its rich heritage and fascinating backwaters on a two night or a three night journey.

The backwaters of Kerala and The luxurious Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda offer a venue and an experience that is one of its kind!

Priced at INR 1, 06,000, per cabin, for two nights and INR 1, 41,000, per cabin for three nights, the offer includes: Accommodation in a cabin on single/double

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

33

HOSPITALITY

Sarovar Hotels holds its 21st Annual Meet Sarovar Hotels recently organised its 21st Annual Meet on September 11 – 12, 2015 at the Optus Hometel, Bhiwadi.

This annual event was attended by Corporate

Sarovar Premiere, Solapur Hotel of the year

Heads, General Managers of all 70+ Sarovar ho-

(Mid-Market Category) :Davanam Sarovar Por-

tels across the country & East Africa, as well as

tico Suites, Bengalure

key Sales & Marketing associates from across

General Manager of the year:

all regional offices in India. Themed as ‘Together

Amit Tayal, Mahagun Sarovar Por-

Towards Tomorrow’ the agenda of this 2-day

tico, Vaishali Chef of the year (Pre-

event was carefully put together with a host of

miere Category): Chef Devender

external speakers from varied fields.

Kumar, Park Plaza, Shahadara

The meet witnessed presence of renowned

Chef of the year (Mid Market

speakers like Ritiesh Aggarwal, Founder, OYO

Category): Chef Radhesh Nair,

Rooms, Jagbir Singh, Ex Olympian; RJ Friedlan-

Gokulam Park Kochi

der, Founder and CEO of ReviewPro and Pawan

Sales Person of the year (Unit

Hora, Founder, Wishbox Studio. The meet also

Sales): Hrushi Reddy, Sales Man-

had the presence of Anil Modhok, Managing Di-

ager, Aditya Park, Hyderabad.

rector, Sarovar Hotels and Ajay Bakaya, Executive Director of the group.

The theme of the two day event was around

Sales Person of the Year (Regional Sales): Nimish Pitale, Mumbai

the flavors of Rajasthan and had special cultural

Employee of the year: Pungavanam K - En-

shows by the local artists. Sarovar Awards 2015

gineering Associate, Park Plaza, Bengaluru;

was another highlight of the meet, which recog-

Ramesh Pawar - Housekeeping Supervisor –

nized outstanding employees and properties of

Hotel Marine Plaza, Mumbai; Kulamani Prad-

the year. The winners included:

han, Aditya Park Hyderabad - F & B Executive.

Hotel of the year (Premiere Category):Balaji

by T NH DESK

Leelaventure Limited sells The Leela Goa to MetTubeSdn. Bhd. This is the largest single asset acquisition in hospitality sector in India. The hotel continues to be under the management control of Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts.

(BTA) to sell The Leela Goa (Goa Hotel) to MetTubeSdn. Bhd., Malaysia (“MetTube”) Ceres Hotels Private Limited (Ceres), a wholly owned Indian subsidiary of MetTube, agreed to acquire the Goa Hotel for a total consideration of Rs. 725 crores. The Goa Hotel would be transferred to Ceres by way of a slump sale under the BTA subject to satisfac-

The Leela Goa blends local culture with the re-

tion of certain conditions precedent, including

gion’s Portuguese heritage. The 206-room

regulatory approvals.

Leela Goa is spread across lush 50 acres with

Pursuant to a Hotel Management Agree-

direct access to the pristine Mobor beach. The

ment, HLVL shall manage and operate the

resort has the advantage of being on the

nounced that (subject to regulatory approvals

Goa Hotel and the hotel shall continue to be

banks of river Sal at the far-side of the prop-

and specific conditions being met) it has en-

known as the ‘The Leela Goa.’

erty.

Hotel Leelaventure Limited (HLVL) has an-

tered into a Business Transfer Agreement

34

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

As one of India’s premier luxury properties,

HOSPITALITY

Kairali Ayurvedic Group Enters Nagaland Opens Therapeutic Ayurvedic Centre at Dimapur Kairali Ayurvedic Group has brought authentic Ayurveda from Kerala to the Nort Eastern State of India at Nagaland. The Group in Franchise agreement with Mind Fresh Health Care Centre has opened its first Ayurvedic Therapeutic Centre at the largest city of Nagaland, Dimapur.

The Centre inaugurated by Honorable Health and Family Welfare Minister of Nagaland Mr. P. Longon will offer exclusive Ayurvedic therapies and treatments to the people at Nagaland and the region. Located at 2 1/2 Miles Opposite Telco Services, Dimapur, Nagaland, the property is in-

surrounded by excellent view of herbs and

clusive of 4 Treatment Rooms and Covering a

shrubs.

carpet area of 2000 Sq. Ft., offering Wellness

“We want ayurveda to reach at every door

therapies like beauty & skin therapies along with

step in the country. The North East region in

many health related treatments.

India including Nagaland has an ideal atmos-

Speaking at the occasion Mr. P. Longon said

phere for Ayurveda. We are also offering

“let’s hold our hands together with positive efforts

Ayurveda medicines with the proper consultancy

in thoughts & actions to make it a successful

of doctor” said Abishek K Ramesh, Director

centre. There can be no better group than Kairali for this initiative”.

Ayurveda has become more effective with the

Kairali Ayurvedic Group. freshness in atmosphere, that’s why the centre is located far away from hustle bustle of the town

Clarks Inn Retreat at Khajuraho Clarks Inn Group of Hotels recently organised its 7th Annual Corporate Retreat at Clarks Khajuraho. The Retreat was attended by Clarks Inn’s various corporate heads along with the General Manager of all its units from across India. The Annual Retreat are platforms where the Clarks Inn’s key managers along with all its unit heads get together to evaluate its performance and growth, learn from each other, chalk out strategies and the future course of action as well as unwind and relax.

36

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

by T NH DESK

DESTINATION

Explore the Awe Aspiring Sun Festival in South Egypt The Sun Festival takes place every year in February and October at the exquisite Abu Simbel Temple in Aswan in Southern Egypt to celebrate the life of the Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh ‘Ramses II’

v B PRIYAANKAA MATHUR Y

The Sun Festival held at Abu Simbel Temple

People from across the world gather around

in Aswan in Southern Egypt celebrates the life

the Abu Simbel Temple in months of February

of the ancient Egyptian Pharaoh ‘Ramses II’ and

and October every year to see the sunrise and

happens to be an awe inspiring event that

also the statues inside the temple getting illumi-

amazes all, who get an opportunity to experi-

nated by the rising sun on these two days

the

ence it. Built by Ramses II the exquisite temple

around the year. The assembled people often

p h a r a o h ’s

of Abu Simbel in Aswan was dedicated to the

meditate during the wee hours around the tem-

family members

Sun Gods ‘Re-Harkhti’ and ‘Amen-Re’. The tem-

ple. It is interesting to note that the main temple

namely his favorite

ple was also meant to celebrate every year the

remains dark all through the year, but the statues

wife

two most important occasions in the life of the

get illuminated by the rising sun on just these

mother and his son Prince

Pharaoh Ramses II himself, one being his own

two days around the year. One definitely won-

Amonherkhepshef.

Birthday on October 22nd and other being the

ders about the fact that The God of Darkness,

Day of his Coronation on February 22nd that

‘Ptah’ who sits besides the Sun Gods and ‘Ram-

continues to be celebrated till date, since the

ses-II’ still remains in dark throughout the year

past 3,200 years at the Temple of Abu Simbel.

and he is still exempted from the enlightenment.

Nefertiti,

his

Things to do in Aswan and Abu Simbel Witness the Sound and Light Extravaganza

This exotic temple bestows in itself a unique

The temple of Abu Simbel happens to be one

architectural marvel wherein the temple is an-

of the largest rock cut temples in Egypt and was

For all those who still want to experience the

gled in such a way that on these two days in the

built out of carving the Sandstone Mountains be-

galore of the enchanting temples in Abu-Simbel,

months of October and February at the break of

sides the Nile River. As per the Egyptian belief

they must watch the wonderful sound and light

dawn, a distinct stream of light gradually pierces

these mountains were considered the abode of

show at night played 3 times daily at 6, 7 and 8

the gloom inside the temple and illuminates the

the Sun deities, who emerged from the earth

pm. Be the part of the masterful spectacle to vi-

statuettes of ‘Ramses-II’ along with the statues

creating a bulge in the otherwise flat land, where

sualize the great facades of the Abu Simbel tem-

of Sun Gods ‘Re-Harkhti’ and ‘Amen-Re’ sitting

the temples were later constructed. The temple

ple endowed with enthralling light, sound and

beside him in the Santorum and this enlighten-

stands 100 feet tall and displays exquisitely

visual effects complementing with inspiring nar-

ment is commemorated in Egypt as the Sun fes-

carved 4 statues of Ramses each 66 feet high

rations, taking you back to the era of Ramses

tival!

that guards the entrance and includes statues of

and the great Egyptian history thousands of

38

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

at Abu Simbel

DESTINATION

years ago. The show is scripted in 9 languages

the teetotalers, can definitely enjoy varieties of

Egyptians controlled floods by measuring the

English, Arabic, French, Italian, Spanish, Ger-

flavored tea along with the typical Egyptian or

rise and fall of water levels in the Nile River and

man, Russian, and Chinese and Japanese; one

Arabic coffee.

thus predicted the relative success in harvest.

can choose the language as per convenience.

Visit the Aswan’s botanical garden also known Sail through the Nile

as ‘Kitchener's Island’ that boasts of exotic plant

Enjoy local Egyptian Culture and Cuisines

Aswan happens to be an oasis-kind-of-place

varieties collected from across Asian and African

After taking a good look at the Abu Simbel, one

with a subtropical desert climate. Best time to

regions.

can enjoy Egyptian folklore, dances and singing

reach Abu Simbel is October-May. One can

by the local troupes. Not to miss the mouth wa-

spend a day to a week in Aswan and Abu Simbel

tering local Egyptian cuisines like - Ful

depending on the variety of activities one intends

Abu Simbel is located about 290 kms southwest

Medames (mashed fava beans), Kushari –

to explore. Enjoy the felucca sailing down the

from Aswan in the middle of a desert. There are

a mixture of rice, macaroni and lentils or

Nile River south from Luxor. Explore the journey

three ways to communicate to Abu-Sambel. One

the Falafel an original Egyptian de-

on the Nile that is sometimes, curvy, sometimes

can board flights from Cairo to Aswan Airport,

light. For all those who are fond

calm yet attractive facing the desert deep down

since there are no direct flights to Abu Simbel.

the opposite bank.

From Aswan airport one can further travel by bus

of alcohol will have a tough time to find one, as alcohol is not widely drunk

Travel and Accommodation in Abu Simbel

to the temple. If you love to travel by road, take Excavate through the monuments

a bus trip to explore the desert to the full. Hon-

in Egypt it being a

If you have boarded the luxurious Nile cruise,

eymooners and luxury travelers can take the 4-

Muslim coun-

stop over a couple of wonderful, monumental

5 days on ‘The Nile cruise’ floating over Lake

try. While

temples on the way – ‘Edfu’ and ‘Kom Ombo’.

Naseer from Aswan to Abu Simbel. Book your

Across the Nile visit Aswan’s major highlight the

trip to Abu Simbel through small or mid-range

‘Elephantine Island’ that is known for its colorful

hotels that work on collaborative arrangement to

mud –brick houses and palm tree plantations.

organize travel to the temple for their guests in

For the history buffs Aswan’s Southern end

single vans or buses that turns out to be more

boasts of its oldest civilization ‘Ruins of Abu’,

cost effective. Whichever mode of travel you

the ‘Aswan Museum’, ‘Temple of khnum’ and the ‘Temple of Satet’ can be of prime interest.

choose Abu Simbel is worth the trip.

It is impossible to comprehend human creation at Abu Simbel as it is astonishing to know

Aswan do stores its ‘Nilome-

that the temple does not sit today in its original

ter’ –the ancient stone

location. The temple suffered serious risks of

hewn wells for the sci-

getting drowned in 1960s due to the rising wa-

ence

enthusiasts

ters of the lake Nasser. Thus the expert mem-

who would be

bers from (UNESCO) in collaboration with

interested

Egyptian architects orchestrated a massive re-

to know

location project that moved the temple 690 feet

how

away from its original site. Piece by piece the craftsmen removed the massive stones carefully reassembling them on a new cement and steel mountain that was safe from the water’s edge.

However the project could not restore the exact precise orientation of the monument and resulted into a shift in the days of illumination that now occurs on 21st of February and 21st of October every year.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

39

INTERNATIONAL

Mandarin Oriental, Taipei:

An abode of impeccable luxury With its large-size rooms & suites, stylish design and high-quality restaurants coupled with luxurious hospitality, Mandarin Oriental, Taipei has set a new benchmark of luxurious hospitality in the capital of Taiwan.

v B PREM KUMAR Y

Mandarin Oriental, Taipei is superb luxury hotel! During my recent trip to Taiwan, I had opportunity to stay at this hotel and experience its magnificent hospitality and luxury. Suites, rooms, suave restaurants, spa and overall hospitality, everything was so majestic! It was an amazing and memorable experience for me to stay in this hotel. The hotel has become the city’s most luxurious hotel, bringing an exciting era of the best

interior of the hotel. The hotel has stunning art

in luxury hospitality to the city.

collection. Mandarin Oriental, Taipei’s interiors in-

Speaking about the USP of the Mandarin Ori-

clude exquisite accommodations which add a

ental, Taipei, its General Manager Paul Jones

new dimension to luxury accommodation in

said, “Mandarin Oriental, Taipei is located in

Taipei. They combine elements of contemporary

Taipei’s most established business district. Taipei

luxury with classic style whilst offering the city’s

Arena, the city’s premier entertainment venue for

most spacious accommodations. “Most impor-

concerts, art activities and events is within short

tantly, it is the people that make the biggest dif-

walking distance. The hotel is just five minutes

ference. Taiwanese hospitality is very genuine,

by car from Songshan International Airport and 40 minutes to Taoyuan International Airport, making this the perfect base for both business and

warm and helpful. By combining this with ManPaul Jones GM, Mandarin Oriental, Taipei

darin Oriental’s Legendary Service, it makes for very engaging service experiences,” said Jones.

leisure travellers to enjoy Taipei’s many attrac-

whether it is to capture the beautiful façade, the

The hotel has 256 well-appointed rooms and

tions.”

central courtyard or the landscaping,” said Jones.

47 stylish suites including the luxurious Mandarin

“The most unique feature of Mandarin Oriental,

The hotel’s interior décor is elegantly fur-

and Presidential Suites. The rooms and suites

Taipei is the remarkable architecture. The design

nished. Many sculptures and paintings adorn the

have been designed with classic inspiration and

of the Mandarin Oriental, Taipei has been created

contemporary touches. All the rooms and suites

with iconic architecture reflecting European

are equipped with latest technology, luxurious

styles, and has become one of the city's presti-

marble bathrooms and walk-in closets. The hotel

gious landmarks. Many visitors stand outside and admire the building and photograph it,

40

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

boasts of having most spacious rooms and suites

ting decorated by arts. Located adjacent to the

excellent service and state-of-the-art technology.

in the city, ranging from 55 square meters.

lobby, the Jade Lounge is the place to visit for

The hotel offers a versatile range of event spaces

Rooms and suites are elegantly decorated. The

Mandarin’s renowned afternoon tea. The Jade

including the Grand ballroom, which can accom-

hotel’s rooms and suites are among the best in

Lounge offers a wide selection of Artisan teas,

modate up to 1200 guests and the Mandarin

Taiwan.

coffees and beverages.

Ballroom for up to 550 guests. A contemporary

Two magnificent Presidential Suites including

The restaurant staff at the hotel is extraordinar-

and café-like breakout area for refreshments and

a Mandarin Suite, each at almost 400 sq. m with

ily caring for their guests. They are highly prompt

breaks is centrally located amidst the various

a private spa and gymnasium, offer the ultimate

in welcoming the guests at the restaurants

rooms.

in luxury, comfort and indulgence. All suite guests

whether they are for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The spectacular Grand Salon on the eighth

can also enjoy the prestigious Oriental Club.

The Spa at M.O., Taipei offers holistic signature

floor is a prestigious and exclusive venue for

Friendly and caring staff will never give you

treatments including a comprehensive range of

wedding ceremonies, fashion events and product

chance to complain about anything and are al-

wellness, beauty and massage programs. The

launches. The Grand Salon has stunningly luxu-

ways ready to serve you.

spa offers a true urban escape with its elegant

rious setting with a balcony overlooking the roof

Wide range of dining options at the hotel in-

design, serene atmosphere and excellent facili-

garden and a stately 21-metre high domed roof.

cludes French, Italian and Cantonese cuisines,

ties. A retreat for complete rejuvenation, the spa

Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan and China are

and Jade Lounge. The restaurants and bars at

follows a personalized approach to treatment,

key source markets for the hotel, says Jones,

Mandarin Oriental, Taipei showcase innovative

and offers a host of bespoke treatments and ther-

adding, “Europe and the US are also important,

concepts and superlative cuisine in stylish and

apies, where the guests get a holistic rejuvenat-

which in the past have been market for business

sophisticated settings. The contemporary French

ing experience.

visits but we increasingly see a growing trend of

brasseries, Café Un Deus Trois offers classic

Spread over two floors, the spacious spa offers

discerning leisure travellers coming to explore

brasserie fare along with other international fa-

12 tranquil treatment rooms including four cou-

the delights of Taipei and Taiwan.” For a long

vorites. Ya Ge, the fine dining Cantonese restau-

ple-suites and two VIP suites. The spa offers a

time, Taiwan has been particularly well known in

rant provides a beautiful setting to enjoy excellent

range of specialized beauty and body treatments

the Asia region as one of the most exciting world

cuisine.

for the best spa experience. The Spa has won

food destinations to visit, but it has so much more

The Italian restaurant Bencotto serves authen-

three major international awards including ‘Best

to offer beyond gourmet delights; rich culture,

tic, heart-warming cuisine from a team of Italian

Luxury Hotel Spa’ at the World Luxury Spa

stunning landscapes, extensive hot spring expe-

chefs in a lively atmospheric with a large open

Awards in 2015.

riences and of course the renowned warmth and

kitchen. Guests can also enjoy the fine patisserie,

The hotel also has a high-tech fitness centre,

cakes and pralines created by the world Choco-

a yoga studio and a 20-metre outdoor swimming

late master, the Frank Haasnoot.

pool at the hotel.

friendliness of the Taiwanese.

Taipei is a vibrant city renowned for its traditional heritage and modern thinking. MO Taipei

The stylish M. O. Bar serves an extensive

Mandarin Oriental, Taipei offers ultimate venue

provides the perfect choice for guests to experi-

range of the cocktails and champagnes in a set-

for meetings, events and weddings along with its

ence the excitement of this attractive destination.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

41

MICE

MICE Movement in Mumbai Trends Perspectives and Expectations!

Indian MICE tourism market has started evolving hugely in the Business travel space especially in metro cities like Mumbai that today has become a travel hub for the MICE sector. Mumbai offers a unique amalgamation of culture, history, tradition, beauty, luxury and modern world-class hotel infrastructure facilities that certainly appeals today’s business and MICE travelers. Travel and Hospitality Magazine intends to explore the trends, perspectives and expectations that the city of dreams ‘Mumbai’ bestows for the MICE tourism industry…

v B PRIYAANKAA MATHUR Y

catering very well to the need of the MICE event organizers.

The MICE Industry in India is bound to grow by leaps and bounds with the

The Mumbai city possesses world class infrastructural standards for MICE

development of sharp technical and execution skills. Indian MICE industry that

sector catering to the requirements of the meeting planners for whom compli-

currently organizes around 700 trade shows annually makes India as one of

ance, cost and travel time are all noted as top drivers whereas personalization,

the emerging MICE destinations to hold conclaves in various sectors such as

flexibility and value for money, better space formats along with themed oriented

medical, pharmaceutical, automobile, education, tourism and security to name

packages do play an important. They are ready to explore larger set of choices

a few. According to the International Congress and Convention Association

with new and exotic destinations, with better road and air connectivity that

(ICCA), total 400,000 conferences and exhibitions are held every year world-

Mumbai city readily provides. As per the Cushman & Wakefield‘s Hotel 2015

wide at the total outlay of US$280 billion, wherein India’s share is pegged at

report -The average contribution of MICE segment in Mumbai has been

US$4.8 bn standing 27th in the global meetings market. Indian inbound MICE

steadily growing from a 20-25% in the market and the demand for MICE busi-

segment is growing at the rate of 15 to 29% annually with an estimated con-

ness in Mumbai is expected to grow steadily with the Reliance Convention

ventions and conference market to be Rs. 4,000-5,500 Crores annually.

Centre set to be developed at Bandra-Kurla Complex by 2017.

The MICE industry today stores in itself a high growth potential bringing with

Karan Anand, Head of Relationships and

it large industry associations along with opportunities for employment, that en-

Supplier Management for Cox & Kings India

ables in-turn in efficient utilization of assets by the government. The long term

Ltd: “All the top financial regulatory bodies in

sustainability of the conference business can only be insured with state- of-

Mumbai attract banks and insurance companies

the art convention centers and infrastructure development, skilled and trained

to the city. The city boasts of rich human resources

staff, well developed air and road connectivity, ample room inventory, excellent

and skilled labor. The emerging three and four star

connectivity to the venues along with attractive tourist spots to act as incentives

category hotels in North Mumbai are acting as

for the large Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibition (MICE) events.

cost effective options to event organizers. Key corporate MICE markets are for-

Karan Anand

Mumbai the Gateway city to India happens to be the financial and entertain-

eign and local companies that host product launches, pharmaceutical confer-

ment capital of the country that definitely contributes to a big chunk of interna-

ences. Although the city requires more hotels to come up, the estimated 10,000

tional tourist arrivals to the Indian shores. Initially, Mumbai happened to be a

new hotel rooms to be opened in and around Mumbai by 2017 will certainly

coastal land primary into fishing occupation by the Koli community, that still

solve the room inventory issues in the city. In my opinion Mumbai city ranks no

represents the cities costal culture. Eventually this city transformed to a cos-

3 on the scale of 1-5 in comparison to other cities in India”

mopolitan, economically viable land, inhabiting diverse cultures and religions

Sharat Dhall, President, Yatra.com: “Banks,

that saw substantial influx in its population that today counts to not less than

Financial players and global industries are now

18.4 million. This metropolitan city became the centre of economic activity in

looking towards Mumbai as a potential MICE des-

India and contributes today to approx. 6.16% of India's economy. Mumbai hap-

tination. Mumbai offers a host of executive busi-

pens to be the world's 29th largest city by GDP that has become India’s eco-

ness hotels and venues such as Nehru Centre are

nomic hub of commerce, industries and related services including tourism.

very well equipped to host conventions of global

Boasting of its own entertainment industry ‘Bollywood’ the city provides many

standards. In my opinion Mumbai can be rated at

excursion tours to various film studios and television sets in its suburbs, sight-

a point 4 on a scale of 1-5 and is considered a close competition to our national

seeing tours to many places like Ellora caves, Gate way of India and boasts of

capital. It rates high because of all the world class facilities and the well-struc-

a vibrant night life which attracts companies to stage their product launches in

tured event venue options and excellent connectivity by air, rail and sea from

the city. Thus Mumbai provides high-end leisure opportunities for incentive tours

most of the locations.”

42

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

Sharat Dhall

MICE A lot of MNCs are trying to enter the Indian market with large Fortune 500

gathered thousands of the best ideas, trends, and images to help deliver more

Companies planning their annual conferencing calendars to work with MICE

impactful and inspired meetings. MeetingsImagined.com is the digital platform

space providers in India. Mumbai has slowly but surely become a preferred

that houses the brands visual inspiration and expertise and is used for

choice for MICE Organizers with the focus on improving infrastructure, the in-

ideation, planning and collaborating. In my opinion Mumbai would rank no 1

troduction of metro, and other public transport systems, connectivity has in-

on a scale of 1-5 in comparison to other Indian cities considering the infra-

creased immensely which is one of the focal requirements for any event

structure, connectivity and accommodation options it has to provide. Not to

organizer. Further the new international airport has helped in opening doors for

forget being the financial capital of the country merits the city acting like a

more inbound travel to take place. Mumbai witnessed many industry specific

magnet to MICE Organizers.”

exhibitions and conclaves like CPHI, NASSCOM, FICCI and many more.

Trends Embarking the Mumbai MICE Infrastructure:

Challenges and Breakthroughs Nothing comes without its challenges and Mumbai city too is not an ex-

Mumbai MICE Industry can be categorically divided depending on the nature

ception. Mumbai has been ranked as the most expensive city amongst

of the event as there are more Hotels Brands in luxury and upscale venue seg-

nine key Indian cities for the third consecutive year according to “Trip

ment namely - St. Regis Mumbai, Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Renaissance

Index Cities” an annual survey by Trip Advisor. One of the main challenges

Mumbai Convention Centre and Hotel, Taj Mahal Palace, Taj Lands End, Trident

the city faces is road transportation facilities within the city. The large bot-

BKC, Grand Hyatt, ITC Maratha, ITC Grand central for holding conventions

tle necks in Central and South Mumbai needs to be worked upon. This

and conferences. For holding large Conferences and Inter-Cultural Extravagan-

will help to distribute business uniformly across the cities North and Cen-

zas –NCPA, Nehru Centre, World Trade Centre and for Exhibitions cum Con-

tral areas likewise and avoid the shift in focus towards North Mumbai ho-

gresses venues like Bombay Exhibition Centre and MMRDA ground are more

tels in the Santa Cruz-Vile Parle-Andheri belt, that are easy to commute

ideal. Large players like Reliance is investing in convention spaces like JIO Gar-

than the Central Mumbai areas. The city requires more hotels to come

dens in BKC only speaks about the future of MICE in Mumbai ,which is growing.

up, which is in pipeline already. The entertainment tax and luxury taxes

The newly adapted MICE upscale and luxury properties of today are well

charged from organizers is also a significant cost acting as a discouraging

equipped to take up the MICE challenge as reflected by their high end meeting

factor to hold events in the city and thus Mumbai tends to lose out de-

technology ranging from high resolution HD projectors and modern LED lights

pending on the nature of the event, while a convention centre could act

and fixers, video conferencing, direct satellite feeds to outdoor landscapes and

as a game changer.

break away spaces, to attract the clients who are very selective in terms of nov-

Change is inevitable and yes we see a definite prominence in the sys-

elty without compromising the quality of services. Moreover the Mumbai airport

tem on strengthening the MICE possibilities in Mumbai as a city and India

finally getting its long awaited T2 will welcome more MICE organizers to plan

as a whole. The government recognized the need to upgrade and ease

large scale events in the city. India is served by over 80 airlines, from more than

out the local transport in Mumbai and thus has promised connectivity with

45 countries Mumbai being a major stop over, certainly increases many possi-

Metro 2 and Metro 3 lines that will cover South Mumbai to North Mumbai,

bilities.

estimated to complete by 2019. The government has also promised to fast track the Coastal Road connecting Nariman Point to Malad for

Dhanjay Saliankar, Regional Director, Starwood Hotels & Resorts: “Mumbai city in my

smoother road connectivity. With the Indian Governments move to liber-

estimation should see an average of 8-10% growth

alize visas for MICE conferences and meeting organized by public sector

considering the supply in accommodation and

undertakings, public institutions, central educational institutions, RBI, UN

meeting space that is progressively increasing.

and affiliated organizations is indeed a great move ahead to boost MICE

The key geo source markets primarily include

Tourism to the country and of course to its financial capital ‘Mumbai’- The

China with other significant cities in Asia Pacific.

US, UK and Europe are great feeder markets. Be-

Dhanjay Saliankar

sides having large hotels with accommodation space, it is imperative Mumbai should have a modern Convention Centre located at its epicenter. In most probability this would attract MICE not only from Indian cities but also from global markets. In my opinion Mumbai would rank at No- 3 on a scale of 1-5 in comparison to other MICE cities in India based on the current infrastructure available.”

Megha Ajgoankar, Director of Sales and Marketing, Renaissance Mumbai Convention Center and Hotel: “In an endeavor to create more engaging experiences to support desired outcome - whether it is a successful product launch, an enriching training session, or a decisive board meeting, the experts at Renaissance Mumbai have

City of Dreams…

•Bombay Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) area 45,000 sq.ft.

• Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre and Hotel indoor and outdoor convention space area 230, 000sq.ft with largest ballroom area of 13000sq.ft accommodates 1,800 pax. Room inventory of 583 rooms including 30 suites and 4 duplexes.

• St. Regis Mumbai Ballroom area of 6500 sq ft along with multiple meeting areas 22,000 Sq.ft plus.

• Trident BKC Ballroom area 10,000 sq. ft. capacity 550 pax.

• Westin Mumbai Garden city area of 10,000 sq. ft.

• ITC Maratha and ITC Grand central together have a facility of over 25,000 sq.ft including outdoor venues.

Megha Ajgoankar

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

43

INTERNATIONAL

Tourism Australia presents new attractions

Coast, Cairns, islands on the Great Barrier

Indian travellers are looking for experiences beyond monuments, museums and markets and travel buffs can dig forever in tourist hotspots of Australia with a slew of events and attractions.

Reef,

v

travelling for the sec-

BY SWAATI

Sydney

and

Melbourne and those

CHAUDHURY

Tourism Australia is working in close asso-

The Indian government has signed MoU on

ciation with travel companies of Indian metros

tourism with the Australian government some-

and is targeting eight major cities of India to

time last year and the premier meeting to ex-

pull in Indian travellers. The tourism group has

tend the bilateral ties in tourism would be held

makes up around 5 per cent of Indian tourist

joined hands with Air India to roll out special

in October. Kashikar commented, “Australia is

arrivals in Australia. Nearly 8,000 tourists from

fares for Indian travellers jet-setting to Australia

one of the leading tourist destinations that In-

Bengal visited the country in the current year

from September 30 to October 31, 2015.

dian travellers lust for. The highest numbers of

and with the rise in global travel among the

Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager, India

Indian tourists travel from Mumbai and New

middle-class populace in Bengal, the figure is

and Gulf, Tourism Australia informed, “We have

Delhi to Australia. There are 85 travel agents

likely to double up next year. Australia figures

launched cheap air fares for festive season and

across the country to process the electronic

as the top three destinations for Bengal tourists

Air India is offering a round trip fare of Rs

visas for Indian tourists planning to visit Aus-

that contribute about 38 million AUD.”

58,000 for a single person. Malaysian Airlines

tralia. We are working with 10 travel companies

Tourism Australia is planning to revamp

has also come up with affordable air fares for

in Kolkata to ensure that there is a significant

Aussie Specialist Programme for the Indian

Indian tourists looking to travel to Australia. We

rise in tourist arrival from Bengal to Australia

travel trade in October and there are as many

have unveiled two new tourism products some-

during festive season. Besides, we are partner-

as 2,000 Aussie Specialists in India. The num-

time last year including self-drive holidays and

ing with national tour operators like Cox &

ber is likely to go up by 50 per cent in June,

luxury lodges in Great Barrier Reef and Kan-

Kings Limited and Kuoni Holidays to pull in In-

next year. “There is an increasing demand

garoo Island. We are ready to collaborate with

dian tourists.”

among Indian MICE tourists to fly to Australia.

ond time drop in at Nishant Kashikar Country Manager, India and Gulf, Tourism Australia

Perth and Western Australia. West Bengal

Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways and Cathay

Indian wedding is one such area that the

There are around 6,000 Indian MICE visitors to

Pacific Airways to devise affordable fares for

tourism group would like to explore in future.

Australia every year. The country has a

travellers. India is the 8th largest source market

Leisure travellers form around two-third of the

plethora of MICE-related activities with excel-

and Indian tourists constitute the 10th largest

Indian tourist footfalls in Australia. Kashikar

lent facilities for conventions,” further added

high-spenders in Australia.”

added, “Bengal tourists love to visit Gold

Kashikar.

Singapore Tourism Board appoints TRAC Representations as its Marketing Representative in South India Singapore ranks amongst the most aspired travel destinations for Indians.

Gupta have been appointed as marketing representative for Chennai & Bangalore market.

Shreekala is an expert business leader and customer service consultant in the Tamil Nadu travel industry. She has worked with various leading travel companies of Chennai and with an experience of over 11 years. Meenakshi in Bangalore office has over 20 years of work experience. She has been working closely with the South Indian travel trade. She has extensive

It is consistently one of the top visited desti-

With two existing offices in India operating

experience in sales, PR and marketing and has

nations for families, honeymooners, cruisers,

out of Delhi & Mumbai, the Singapore Tourism

undertaken promotional activities for various in-

business travellers and incentive groups from

Board (STB) has appointed TRAC Represen-

ternational tourism destinations. Both have a

India. Visitor arrivals from India to Singapore

tations as their marketing representative for the

strong background in each and every aspect

reached more than 520,000 in the first half of

South India market to strengthen trade rela-

the travel trade, which is an added advantage.

2015 with a 6% year-on-year growth. South

tions and execute marketing initiatives in Tamil

The key objective of the marketing represen-

India is an important source market with direct

Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana

tative is to enhance the positioning of Singa-

flights from 8 different cities to Singapore, con-

and Kerala. TRAC will be operating offices in

pore as a favoured travel destination for leisure

tributing nearly 30% of Indian visitor arrivals in

Bangalore and Chennai for STB.

and business amongst the travellers from the

2014.

44

Shreekala Sukumaran and Meenakshi

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

South India market.

by TNH DESK

TECHNOLOGY

RezNext: An integrated strategic distribution platform for hotels RezNext is an integrated and intelligent strategic distribution platform for large hotel chains. For budget and mid-market hotels, it is an easy platform to get online. In an interview with TnH, Mike Kistner, CEO, RezNext Global Solutions, talks about vision and achievements of his company.

v B PREM KUMAR What have been the ideas behind the Q foundation of Reznext? What is the Y

hotel’s property management system allowing inventory and rates to flow automatically to the

Q

Your hotel distribution platform is integrated with revenue management? So

long-term vision of your organisation?

channels and bookings from the channel to flow

how does it help hotels in revenue manage-

RezNext was founded to address the deep need

back into the hotel PMS.

ment?

to demystify online distribution for hoteliers and

RezNext is also the only distribution technol-

Our intelligent distribution platform has inbuilt rev-

to simplify the manually managed complex en-

ogy company to offer a completely integrated so-

enue tools to help hoteliers maximie their yield

vironment. Also the need for a comprehensive

lution suite that addresses all the pain points in

from the channels that they are connected to. In

integrated solution suite addressing all the func-

the hotel distribution industry today and also pro-

addition, our distribution platform has a seamless

tions in the distribution value chain across rev-

vides a roadmap to hotels for sustained prof-

integration with ReV- our revenue management

enue management, channel management,

itability and growth.

solution. This allows hoteliers to leverage the data

pricing, reputation management was high. Hote-

in their PMS to arrive at an accurate forecast of

liers especially in the mid-market segment are

demand, identify the right target segment, analyse

far behind in adopting online distribution and

the business sources and their performance.

have not leveraged revenue management prac-

Q

tises to boost their online revenues.

Q

What kind of growth do you see for your organisation in future in the Indian mar-

How has your organisation grown and

ket?

expanded since its inception? What

India’s projected hotel supply in the mid-market

has been your success mantra?

space seems very promising. Combined with this,

RezNext addresses the need for a single intelli-

the need for intelligent tools to optimise revenues

gent distribution platform that delivers the con-

is also high among hoteliers. As an industry leader

cept of integrated strategic distribution (for

we are well-positioned to leverage this market

groups/large chains), automates operations and

trend. Hoteliers are also seeing profound impact

improves profitability (for independent hotels)

on their bottom lines using our technology. We will

and provides an easy platform to get online and leverage its potential (for budget to mid-market

Mike Kistner CEO, RezNext Global Solutions

double our penetration in tier two cities that are emerging as new business hubs and leisure destinations.

hotels). process end-to-end freeing up resources for

Q

hoteliers to focus on guest satisfaction. Hoteliers

RezNext primarily caters to mid-market hotels.

are able to improve their collaboration with de-

But our model has also been well accepted by

like yours?

mand generators, improve their visibility online

the high-end 3 star to 5 star properties.

The hospitality industry inIndia is at an inflection

Our technology automates the reservation

and leverage the revenue tools to drive additional demand and improved profitability.

Generally, what kinds of hotels avail your services?

Q

How will you describe the current appetite of Indian hotels for organisation

Depending on the segment they fall under,

point. Increasing proliferation of international

each hotel has different factors that influence its

chains, growing internet penetration, techsavvy

distribution strategy. For small independent ho-

consumers, rapidly changing consumer needs,

Kindly explain your role in hotel distri-

tels the need is to create an online presence

consumers seeking more value for their travel

bution. How is it different from other

through third party channels as well as through

spend, mobile adoption, growth in domestic travel

online hotel distribution system?

its own website. For luxury hotels, while they

and international tourists; all of this is changing

RezNext supports a true real-time distribution

have adopted digital marketing as a key differ-

how hoteliers look at technology. There is an in-

Q

model that levels the playfield for hoteliers allow-

entiator, an integrated approach across their op-

creased awareness about the reduced complexity,

ing them to quickly get online and leverage the

erations is essential. For large groups the focus

savings and improvements in business that tech-

opportunity the internet presents today. Hotels

in on improving their ADR and tapping into addi-

nology can deliver. Increasingly new hotel entre-

distributing their inventory through our platform

tional revenue opportunities. RezNext’s inte-

preneurs are digitally savvy individuals themselves

are connected real-time to leading demand gen-

grated solution suite address these needs

and see internet technologies especially as a

erators. Our platform is also integrated with the

across all hotel segments.

must have for their hotels.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

45

EVENT WATCH

Skal Delhi felicitates Mandeep Singh Soin Skal International Delhi hosted its latest lunch meeting on September 16 at The Lodhi Hotel, New Delhi. On the occasion, in addition to conversing over scrumptious and lavish lunch, members of Skal Delhi felicitated their fellow member Mandeep Singh Soin for his recent achievement of receiving the Citation of Merit from the world's leading Exploration body - the Explorers Club -thus becoming the first Indian and the first Skalleague worldwide to do so.

46

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

EVENT WATCH

IATO holds its interactive Luncheon Meeting In its recent monthly interactive luncheon meeting held on 12th September, 2015 at Hotel The Park, New Delhi , IATO welcomed the new Union Tourism Secretary, Vinod Zutshi and Ashwani Lohani who has taken over as CMD of Air India. On the occasion, IATO also bid farewell to Girish Shankar, former Additional Tourism Secretary, GoI.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

47

NEW APPOINTMENTS

Neerja Bhatia Vice President, India & Indian Sub-Continent, Etihad Airways Etihad Airways has appointed Neerja Bhatia to the position of Vice President India and Indian Sub-Continent (ISC). Bhatia joined Etihad Airways in 2004 as Sales Manager Western India, shortly after the airline had launched its flights to Mumbai, its first Indian destination. She then progressed to become Manager for Western and Southern India, before being appointed as General Manager India in 2007. Neerja has played a key role in the expansion of Etihad Airways in India during the last 11 years and has a wealth of experience and expertise which will be key to the continued alignment of our activities together with our strategic partner Jet Airways in this important geographical area. Etihad Airways currently operates flights from Abu Dhabi to eleven destinations in India: Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Calicut, Chennai, Cochin, Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapuram.

Nalin Mandiratta General Manager, Crowne Plaza Today Gurgaon Nalin Mandiratta , has been appointed as General Manager, Crowne Plaza Today Gurgaon. He was previously General Manager of the Soaltee Crowne Plaza Kathmandu. With over 24 years of industry experience, hospitality veteran, Nalin has been associated with well known hotel brands like Hilton, Marriott and Carlson. He is a progressive thinker and believes in ‘Management by Objectives and Motivation’. He started his career with IHG in May 2010 as General Manager of the Crowne Plaza Rohini Delhi during its pre-opening stage.

Sahdev Mehta General Manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad Double Tree by Hilton hotel - Pune has appointed Sahdav Mehta as the General Manager. Sahdav Mehta has more 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry and has worked across different verticals.

Prior to joining Double tree by Hilton- Sahdav was leading the F&B team at the Marriott Pune as the Executive Chef. He was responsible for handling the entire F&B department at Marriott pune. Sahdev recently has been appointed as the GM of Double tree by Hilton in Pune and guided the transition from a raw project stage to a fully operational and vibrant hotel overseeing each aspect of the transformation. It is to his credit that the property opened three months before deadline and saved project cost by seven percent.

Satyajit Kotwal General Manager, The Resort, Mumbai

The Resort, Madh-Marve, Malad has announced the appointment of Satyajit Kotwal as its new General Manager. Prior to this, Kotwal was the Hotel Manager at Keys Hotel Temple Tree, Shirdi -- a brand of the Berggruen Hotel. In his new role and capacity at The Resort, Kotwal will be overseeing the hotel’s operations.

Kotwal brings to the table a rich and diverse experience of over 10 years in the Hotel Operations, Human Resources, and Training sector. Armed with a degree in hospitality from the Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, Mumbai, Kotwal has worked with some the leading hotels in the country in various capacities.

Sanjay Jayanth Routes, ASM, Head of Business Development, Asia

Jayanth brings 16 years of aviation experience to market-leading route development events and consulting businesses. UBM EMEA has appointed Sanjay Jayanth as Head of Business Development, Asia for Routes & ASM, leading a dynamic team to cultivate the growing Asian market for the two sister businesses.

Jayanth has held positions in network development; operations; marketing strategy; revenue management; competitive analysis; cargo and product development for KLM, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Northwest Airlines and most recently GMR Group. He has held key positions for GMR including Airline Marketing and Route Development for Delhi International Airport as well as positions at GMR Male International Airport.

48

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

NEW APPOINTMENTS

Aditya Singh Director Sales & Marketing, Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi has appointed Aditya Singh as its Director for Sales and Marketing. He will spearhead the Room Sales, Catering Sales, Marketing and Revenue divisions in addition to building and honing a dynamic sales team. Aditya Singh has experience in the hospitality industry for over 19 years, having experience with international Hotels chains. Recently, he was associatedwith Kempenski Ambience Hotel, Delhi as Director of Sales & Marketing. Pri r to that, he also headed Sales & Marketing for properties of good repute like The Grand, JW Marriott (Chandigarh), Hyatt Regency Delhi etc. Singh is an expert in various aspects of sales and marketing including pricing strategies, property reactive sales, proactive sales accounts and segment sales, local and social catering sales, and destination sales.

Kamaljit Singh Resident Manager, Alila Diwa Goa Kamaljit Singh has been promoted to Resident Manager of AlilaDiwa Goa. Prior to this Kamal was the Executive Assistant Manager, Food and Beverage. Kamal brings with him over 18 years of experiencein luxury hotels having worked as Director Food and Beverage at Radisson Blu Resort, Goa before joining Alila Diwa Goa. He has also worked with other hospitality brands that include Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, Maldives, Radisson Plaza Resort and Spa, Kerala and Radisson White Sands Resort, Goa. Kamal had previously also been a part of Alila Diwa Goa’s pre-opening team as Food and Beverage Manager in the year 2009–2010.

Poonam Dhamdhere Executive Housekeeper, The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi has appointed Poonam Dhamdhere as Executive Housekeeper.

Poonam has been associated with Starwood Hotels and Resorts since 2013, with her last assignment at Sheraton Bangalore, Brigade Gateway as Executive Housekeeper.

She was previously associated with key brands such as Sofitel Abu Dhabi, Marriott, Lemon Tree and Inter Continental.

In her current role, Poonam will be over seeing the Housekeeping operations at The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi and reporting the same to Ms. Archana Gupta, Director of Rooms at The Westin Gurgaon.

Ashis Rout Executive Chef, Intercontinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort Ashis Rout has been appointed Executive Chef at the InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, which will open in October 2015. He will oversee all culinary activities at the resort and will be responsible for three highly distinctive restaurants. With fifteen years of experience in the food and beverage field, Ashis displays an innovative and contemporary approach. He uses the freshest ingredients to produce high quality dishes which pleasantly surprise the most discerning palettes. Having worked at the Park Hyatt in Milan and at The Grand in Bangkok, his cuisine reflects the various cultures which influenced his creative approach to cooking over the years. Ashis Rout started his career with The Hyatt in Kolkata. He was also responsible for developing and revamping the culinary concept at Ananda-In The Himalayas.

Deepak Yadav Pastry Chef, Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon Courtyardby Marriott, Gurgaon is delighted to announce the appointment of Deepak Yadav as the new Pastry Chef for the hotel. Deepak will be responsible for the overall bakeryand confectionary section of the hotel ensuring quality and excellence in the department. Speaking on the occasion, Deepak Yadav stated,“I am excited to join a talented team of chefs and look forward to an exciting culinary journey at Courtyard by Marriott Gurgaon”. Deepak joins Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon from Gourmet Empire Pvt. Ltd, Chandigarh, where he was working as an Executive Pastry chef. Commenting on the appointment, Kanika Hasrat, General Manager stated.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

49

INTERNATIONAL

President of Kenya launches new international brand campaign to support tourism drive ‘Make it Kenya’ to support Kenya’s position as a leading global tourism destination.

New campaign encourages a 'sick day-stow away' to Queenstown

The President of Kenya, His Excellency Uhuru Kenyatta, recently officially

Destination Queenstown has launched a light hearted new marketing campaign encouraging “our Aussie mates” to stow away to Queenstown for a spring break.

launched Make it Kenya, a new international brand campaign that has been introduced to promote the scale and variety of tourist and investment opportunities the country has to offer.

Tourism is a vital pillar of Kenya's economy, environment, identity and well-

What better excuse is there to take a sick day than an extra long weekend spring skiing in Queenstown, New Zealand?

being; the industry is responsible for 1 in 10 jobs and over 12% of GDP. Kenya is renowned for its amazing beaches and world-class safari offering that pro-

The temptation to take a sick day off work grapples with the best of

vides visitors with ‘once in a lifetime’ experiences. The country is also focusing

us, but when the reward is incredible spring skiing in Queenstown the

on the promotion of business (MICE), sports, adventure and cultural tourism,

guilt doesn’t seem to be so bad.

which helping to take the diversity of the country’ offering to new audiences.

Destination Queenstown has today launched a light hearted new marketing campaign encouraging “our Aussie mates” to stow away to Queenstown for a spring break. Designed to encourage trans-Tasman visitors to make the most of fantastic spring skiing conditions and the huge range of activities on offer in Queenstown, the “sick day, stow away” campaign takes a tongue in cheek look at pulling a sickie to escape for a holiday. According to Destination Queenstown, research shows, that of the 1,005 full-time-employed Australian surveyed, four in five (81%) have taken a sick day at some point in their career when they’re not really ill, with the most common reason given to employers for the feigned day off being ‘piggybacking on a bug sweeping through the workplace’ (18%). When it comes to taking a sick day, Australians also like to plan ahead, with the average Aussie worker taking three days to plan their pretend illnesses.

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TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | OCTOBER 2015

by TNH DESK

(L-R) Celebrity Designer Narendra Kumar was presented with a voucher for a stay at Hotel Fairmont, Monaco by Rajeev Nangia, Director, Monaco Government Tourist Bureau. This was presented during Lakme Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2015 collection. Monaco Government Tourist Bureau associated with the famous designer Narendra Kumar. He showcased his collection inspired by charismatic fashion character and style of Monaco.

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