Travel and Hospitality (TnH) - December 2017

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20 COVER STORY 2017: The year that was 06 NEWS Cyprus Visa Application Centres now in 16 cities in India 07 NEWS TAAI elects new office bearers and Managing Committee for the term 2017-19 09 NEWS MPTM 2017 held at Bhopal from October 27 to 29 with theme to seek, discover, explore

40

06

10 LEADERSHIP What does your card say?

14 NEWS NYC & Company encourages visitors to treasure hunt at both iconic and lesser-known holiday shopping gems

26 YEAR-END REVIEW Year 2017: An eventful year for India's Travel & Tourism Industry

32

28 FEATURE Five travel companies that blew our minds in 2017 31 NEWS Virgin Atlantic and The Sleep Council reveal the secret to a good flight’s sleep 32 FEATURE Five cool franchising opportunities in the Travel and Tourism Industry

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34 FEATURE Six Indian destinations that do Christmas and New Year right 36 EVENT WATCH 11th TAFI annual convention held in Turkey 38 APPOINTMENTS 2017 Appointments of the year 2017 40 DIPLOMAT CORNER Macedonia: a country blessed with fascinating nature and history 44 FESTIVAL CORNER Popular festivals around the world to see in the next month

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46 BITE CORNER Fine-dining in Social Kitchen

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FROM THE EDITOR

One Last Look Back

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 Web Designer Mohit Chaudhary Senior Reporter Archana Sharma Correspondent (Kolkata) Swaati Chaudhury Accounts Chander Shakher Balodi Administration Executive Sarwat Jahan

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

www.tnhglobal.com Printed, published and owned by Srishti Rai. Printed at Somsons Printing Works, 1/7, DoctorÊs Lane, Gole Market, New Delhi - 110001, and published at P- 23/90, Connaught Circus, New Delhi 110001; Editor: SRISHTI RAI

Another year is upon us and as I sit here in the tail end of 2017 writing this note, I’m amazed to already be saying, Happy New Year 2018! Even though I’ve been working on story ideas, new products and collaborations for the coming year for months, the New Year has kind of just snuck up on me. Although we’ve got some exciting things ahead of us, in this issue our cover story recaps what conspired in 2017 (page 20). Refresh your memory by revisiting the outgoing year in fast forward and regroup, reexamine and revisit your business strategies and tactics for the year to come.

For some extra inspiration, we are also taking a special look at ‘Travel companies that blew our minds in 2017’ on page 28.

In this issue, along with our rewind stories, we’ve got some interesting business opportunities for your organization in the New Year. Read our story ‘Five cool franchising opportunities in the Travel and Tourism Industry’ on page 32, and explore some potentially lucrative tie-ups for your company.

As Christmas approaches, it’s time to start planning your next holiday. This time don’t run abroad, from beaches to hill stations, we have compiled a list of ‘Six Indian destinations that do Christmas and New Years Right’ (page 34).

Finally, we hope you and your family have a safe, healthy and happy holiday season irrespective of how you choose to celebrate. The travel industry is ready and rearing to go, we’re facing a New Year, a new set of challenges and opportunities, and a clean slate for the year ahead. Let's seize the moment and let’s all hope for a more prosperous year next year!

Srishti Rai Editor

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NEWS

CYPRUS VISA APPLICATION CENTRES NOW IN 16 CITIES IN INDIA Thiruvananthapuram, Goa, Gurugram, and Jaipur are the latest cities from where applicants can apply for Cyprus visas

I do believe that this centre would further expand and enhance visa services and also promote people-to-people contacts, thus contributing to our bilateral relations. Kerala is a major state with a large percentage of human capital working abroad; therefore, the centre fulfils a vital service with respect to the provision of information and guidelines to applicants who intend on visiting Cyprus for tourism, business, study as well as employment purposes. The centre would work in close cooperation with

VFS Global has expanded the

of the additional services, such

the Consular Department of the

network of Cyprus Visa Applica-

as SMS updates, courier serv-

High Commission to achieve the

tion Centres in India with cen-

ices, online tracking services,

goal of timely and efficient is-

tres for applicants now

among others.

suance of visas.”

launched in four additional

The centre in Thiruvanantha-

VFS Global has served the

cities of Thiruvananthapuram,

puram was inaugurated by His

Government of Cyprus in India

Goa, Gurugram, and Jaipur. The

Excellency Demetrios A. Theo-

since 2015. Globally, the com-

new centres commenced opera-

phylactou, High Commissioner

pany serves the client govern-

tions on 10 November 2017.

of Cyprus to India, in a cere-

ment since 2010, through a

mony held on 17 November

network of 21 Visa Application

2017.

Centres in seven countries.

The expansion of the network of Cyprus visa centres to a total of 16 cities in India signals the

Speaking at the event, His Ex-

Said Vinay Malhotra, Chief

strengthening relationship in

cellency Demetrios A. Theo-

Operating Officer – Middle East

trade and tourism between the

phylactou, High Commissioner

and South Asia, VFS Global,

two counties. Earlier, applicants

of Cyprus to India, said, “It is a

“Cyprus is fast emerging as a

in Thiruvananthapuram were

pleasure to inaugurate the

popular destination of choice for

required to travel to Chennai to

Cyprus Visa Application Centre,

leisure and business travellers

complete their visa application

operated by VFS Global. The

from India, due to its abundant

process for Cyprus. Applicants

opening is quite timely, also

natural beauty and historical

can now benefit from applying

due to a noticeable increase in

heritage. As the number of visi-

in their own city, and can avail

visa related queries from Kerala.

tors to this beautiful Mediter-

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TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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NEWS

ranean nation increases, we are

Key features of the Cyprus

Cyprus Visa Application Cen-

proud and committed to expand

Visa Application Centres in-

tre in Thiruvananthapuram

the network of Cyprus Visa Ap-

clude:

plication Centres across the

• Professional and responsive

Address:

South Asia region as a whole,

staff with local language capa-

with more centres planned in

bility, dedicated to handle visa

Centre, Tc2/2408-3, Attipra

Nepal, Sri Lanka, and

queries

Village, Kazhakuttam,

Bangladesh in the coming months.”

With Cyprus emerging as a favoured destination for out-

• Dedicated website to provide

Email:

fees and other application re-

info.cyprusin@vfshelpline.com

lated details

Website:

• Call Centre and email support to answer queries

will greatly benefit the growing volumes of applicants from

Thiruvananthapuram–695583.

information on visa categories,

bound tourism, VFS Global’s appointment as a service provider

First Floor, Asiactic Business

• Online tracking of application status

India.

http://www.vfsglobal.com/Cyp rus/India Helpline: 91-22-67866022

• Convenient and secure courier return of visa documents

Timings: 0900 hrs – 1500 hrs

to address of choice

TAAI elects new office-bearers and Managing Committee for term 2017-19 The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) elected its new national office-bearers and the members of its Managing Commit-

Sunil Kumar R President - TAAI

Sanjay Narula Vice President - TAAI

tee for the term 2017-2019. The election was held at TAAI's 66th Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) that took place on the 28th November, 2017 at hotel The Lalit, Mumbai. While Sunil Kumar

Seven newly elected members of TAAI's national Managing Committee are:

R has been reelected as the President of TAAI, Sanjay Narula of

Anil Kumar, Acma Travel Tours, Bengaluru

Apex Travel and Tours, New Delhi has been elected as the Vice

Anoop B. Kanuga, Bathija Travels, Mumbai

President of the Association. Narula succeeds Marzban Antia of

Bhagwan T. Ramnani, Vensimal World Travel Agents, Kolkata

the preceding team. Jyoti Mayal has been elected as the new

Devaki Thiyagarajan, Avocet Tours & Travel, Chennai

Hon. Secretary General. She succeeds Lokesh Bettaiah. Imtiaz

Gurmeet Singh Vij, Nova Tours & Travels, Nagpur

Qureshi of Viceroy Travels, Hyderabad has been elected the

Rajan Sehgal, Airborne Travels, New Delhi

new Hon. Treasurer. He replaces Jay Bhatia. All the new office-

P. Saravanan, Viking Tours & Travel, Chennai

bearers and the new members of the Managing Committee have assumed office, effective 28th November, 2018.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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NEWS

INFINITE WONDERS OF ABU DHABI With the Louvre opening its gates in Abu Dhabi, the popularity of the destination will be soaring high.

For those who would like to get a taste of a unique adventure world along with true Arabian hospitality, get set for Abu Dhabi. The capital of United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi boasts of having the largest mall in the Emirates- Yas Mall and the highest sand dunes in the world and moreover, the destination promises travellers to enter the mirage beyond the dunes.

Bejan Dinshaw, Country ManagerIndia, Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority informed, “The destination forms home to indigenous and endan-

gered faunal species. There is golf and cruise tourism in Abu Dhabi. The recent and greatest attraction of the Middle East- The Louvre has been opened for visitors at Saadiyat Island that forms the cultural centre of Abu Dhabi sometime on November 11, this month. Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau has opened its doors for MICE tourists. There is Warner Brothers World coming up sometime next year in Abu Dhabi.” Dinshaw was speaking at Abu Dhabi Tourism Board’s road show themed Abu Dhabi: Your extraordinary story hosted in Kolkata sometime on November 10.

Nearly 40 per cent of Abu Dhabi’s populace are Indians. So what inspires Indian tourists to touch down Abu Dhabi. Dinshaw said, “Abu Dhabi is a standalone destination and is highly

Bejan Dinshaw Country Manager-India, Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority

safe for solo women travellers. There are 36, 6082 rooms overnight in Abu Dhabi. There is something for everyone in the family of leisure travellers and the average length of stay for Indian passport holders is three nights.”

by TNH DESK

LEADING IN FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT The world’s largest entertainment theme park in Dubai is open for all age groups.

For first-time travellers to Dubai, this is one destination that is a mustvisit. And it is IMG Worlds of Adventure, best known as the world’s largest temperature-regulated indoor, themed entertainment park. It is notably the premier mega themed entertainment destination in Dubai. Lying on Sheikh Mohammad-Bin-Zayed Road over an area of 1.5 million sq ft, IMG Worlds of Adventure promises the thrill of four epic adventure zones under one umbrella.

The four zones include world famous brands- Cartoon Network and MARVEL while IMG Boulevard and Dinosaur Adventure zones are the

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TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

creations of IMG Group. Komal Seth, India Representative, IMG Worlds of Adventure informed, “The entertainment destination has a capacity of over 20,000 guests and there are exciting roller coasters, thrill rides and nerve-raising dinosaurs. India is an immense potential tourist market owing to a number of flights connecting United Arab Emirates and Dubai is a short-haul destination. The United Arab Emirates is a safe destination for women travellers and for Indians working offshore, it has emerged as the third highly-preferred destination.

For Indian tourists, Dubai is the destination for leisure, MICE and corporate events.” There are a number of theme parks in the Middle East. So what is it that makes IMG Worlds of

Komal Seth India Representative, IMG Worlds of Adventure

Adventure stand out from other theme parks. Seth said, “There is something for all age groups along with fine-dining outlets and visitors have to purchase only a single ticket

by TNH DESK for all four zones.”

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NEWS

MPTM 2017 HELD AT BHOPAL FROM OCTOBER 27 TO 29 WITH THEME TO SEEK. DISCOVER. EXPLORE Highlights: Attendance from National and International tourism professionals to put the spotlight on Madhya Pradesh as a

year round destination.

The concept of the event is a B2B platform specially created for the national and international audience. Seeing things in a new light is the ethos of the theme. "Showcasing Madhya Pradesh’s diverse offerings in a new way".

The fourth edition of Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart (MPTM) was held at Bhopal from October 27 to 29 this year. Over 200 national and international buyers and about 100 representatives of distinct Indian markets participated in it. Madhya Pradesh, a land that offers not only Bandhavgarh,

but a great mix of Spiritulism in Sanchi, rock shelter paintings in Bhim Betka and pilgrimage in Amarkantak. Madhya Pradesh also famous as heartland of the country having 3 World Heritage Sites, is not only capable to attract tourists who are in search of something new but also as a diverse travel hotspot with great opportunities and depths for serious travelers as well.

The fourth Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart bring tourism stakeholders on a platform where they would interact to explore opportunities of mutual trade.

by TNH DESK

CALIFORNIA EYES INDIA FOR TOURISM GROWTH TO THE GOLDEN STATE Visit California leads first-ever CEO Delegation to India Led by Visit California President & CEO Caroline Beteta, a delegation of 11 CEOs embarked on the first-ever California tourism CEO mission to India on November 13, 2017. The mission begins in Mumbai with meetings and events with key tourism and film industry officials, before moving to New Delhi where it will conclude with a press conference and media interviews. Throughout the week, the CEOs will make invaluable relation-

ships and build excitement around the Golden State’s commitment to the Indian market. The delegation illustrated the excitement surrounding the growth of outbound travel in the market and reflects the diversity of California experiences – from world-class cities, to breathtaking coastline, to world-renowned wine country, to luxurious destinations and accommodations. “We are very excited for the opportunity that the India market presents for travel to California and see this mission as an

important step in introducing California to Indian travelers,” said Caroline Beteta, Visit California president & CEO. “This visit will provide critical learnings on how we can best prepare our state to welcome Indian visitors as the market continues to grow.”

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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LEADERSHIP

What does your Card Say? It is hard to imagine a person in the business world without a business card. This flimsy card which usually measures only 2 inches by 3.5 inches is somehow meant to convey the overall image of your business (not easy). Although, you should not expect anyone’s business card to tell the whole story about them or their company, it does give some insights. We have taken the initiative to discuss the business cards most encountered in the travel industry…

v B SRISHTI RAI JINDAL Y

The Self-Made Man- In the

The Tycoon- The tycoon is an

self-assured.

Nazar

ultra-prosperous, high-net-worth

The Entrepreneur- Now the

started Akbar Travels, no one

individual who usually seems to

entrepreneur is usually a young

bothered too much with things

run the town or the travel industry

ball of energy, often the promoter

like branding and design. Corpo-

in this case. What sets him apart

of an online or technology wonder.

rate identity was simply the man

from a scion or a self-made man is

He is filled with passion for his

behind the brand and they all

that he usually owns several com-

business and worrying about chic

seemed to prefer the simple touch.

panies instead of just one. What’s

design is low on his list of priori-

Correspondingly, business cards of

more? Each one of these compa-

ties. Even then, there is usually

the veterans were uncomplicated

nies is usually a huge success

some young designer on board his

and straight-forward, usually a

story in itself. He usually doesn’t

company who seems to get the

simple white card with the desig-

need a business card because he

business card right with some in-

nation, phone number and address

needs no introduction but his card

teresting branding differentiators

of the bearer.

like him screams confidence. It is

that set him apart from his com-

always bold, sleek, simple and

petitors.

days

10

when

K.V.

Abdul

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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LEADERSHIP

The Scion- Scions are usually

imperative to list down every pos-

They are competent, accomplished

the torchbearers of the new wave

sible award, achievement, and af-

and polished. Their business card

of governance within already suc-

filiation of his company in the little

is more about the reputed organi-

cessful enterprises. The business

business card. His card is often

zation they represent than them-

card of these young entrepreneurs

gimmicks galore.

Unfortunately,

selves. The individuality usually

who are poised to be tomorrow's

he/she thinks over design is the

comes in with the logo of the com-

leaders usually has some impres-

key. Metallic embossing, unusual

pany they proudly represent and

sive designation like MD or Direc-

materials, finishes/shapes and lay-

the title they have earned them-

tor slapped smack in the middle of

outs do not always read expensive

selves in the ranks of their organ-

their card.

but the show-off doesn’t care. He

ization. Director, Vice President,

wants to stand out from the crowd

General Manager, Head of Opera-

but sadly not in a good way.

tions, CEO- they wear each desig-

The Show-Off- Fortunately, I haven’t come across too many of these in our industry but I hear they are all over.

Commonly,

he/she is the one that thinks it's

The Thorough ProfessionalThey

have

worked

hard

nation with aplomb.

and

climbed up the corporate ladder.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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NEWS

CELEBRATE JAMAICAN NEW YEAR IN CARIBBEAN! There is something special for everyone as we ring-in the festive season in Jamaica, this December.

For this last month of the year, Jamaica celebrates its people and Jamaican traditions with dynamic festivities. When it comes to parties Jamaica does take the word, “PARADISE” seriously. The month begins with the “Portland Paradise Weekend” which is celebrated at various luxury properties in Jamaica. From 1st December to 3rd December, Portland will embrace the lifestyle and true treasures of this extraordinary Caribbean island’s culture.

In the middle of this epic weekend take your energy level a notch higher. Bring out the sportsmen spirit in you and run in the scenic paradise with Jamaica’s premier International Marathon, “Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K” on 02nd December, 2017 in Negril. Between the run, enjoy the foot tapping beats of Reggae music with the runners from all around

by TNH DESK the world.

COX & KINGS OPENS ITS FIRST INTERGLOBE HOTELS TO BUILD IBIS PROPERTY IN HEBBAL, HOLIDAY CLUB STORE IN MUMBAI BENGALURU • InterGlobe Hotels (IGH) recently concluded an acquisition of a strategic, prime land parcel in Hebbal, Bengaluru to build an ibis property in this important commercial hub of the city • At an estimated project cost of approximately INR 90 crores, the proposed hotel will feature 153 rooms and also include a large meeting space • Currently IGH has 15 operational ibis hotels in India with Ibis Pune Hinjewadi set for launch next month and Ibis Kolkata launching early in 2018 • Located in north Bengaluru, the ibis site will cater to accommodation demand generated both from large IT parks like Manyata Tech Park and Karle Town Centre along with various other office buildings InterGlobe Hotels has acquired land in Hebbal, Bengaluru to build another ibis hotel in this established commercial hub of north Bengaluru. The land acquisition is part of a longstanding JV between Accor Hotels and InterGlobe Hotels established in

by TNH DESK 2004.

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TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

Cox & Kings, the oldest travel company in the world with operations in 22 countries, has opened its first Holiday Club store in Mumbai to cater to the increasing demand for holiday products.

The centre, located at Dadar in Mumbai will cater to the discerning clientele located in the region.

The Holiday Club store aims Karan Anand to attract a diverse set of Head, Relationships, Cox & Kings customers through innovative offers and customised solutions, and will offer a range of domestic and international holiday packages.

Also, in keeping with recent travel trends, the company has forayed into niche segments such as Enable Travel for the physically challenged, Trip 360 for adventure enthusiasts and Getaway Goddess for the women-only travel segment. The store will market and sell these packages as well.

Karan Anand, Head, Relationships, Cox & Kings said, “Central Mumbai is now the hub of retail activity and our Holiday Club store is perfectly positioned to engage with customers on a one-on-one basis, as they seek personal engagement in making

by TNH DESK sure they have a memorable holiday.’’

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NEWS

TRAVELPORT GLOBAL SURVEY PUTS INDIA TOP OF DIGITAL TRAVELER RANKINGS The highlights are: When planning a trip, 91% of Indian travelers use peer-to-peer reviews when researching a trip 87% use videos and photos posted by their friends as part of their research 85% use price comparison sites to help them find a good price or package 67% use voice search, utilising devices such as Siri or Amazon Echo, when researching a trip – 20% more than the global

by TNH DESK average

VISTARA INTRODUCES ONE-STOPSHOP FOR CUSTOMIZABLE HOLIDAY PACKAGES WITH ‘VISTARAGETAWAYS’ Vistara announced the launch of ‘VistaraGetaways’, a one stop shop for user-customizable holiday packages covering flights, hotels, cars, and sightseeing options, with all of the flexibility that is expected by discerning experienced travellers, at package prices much more attractive than purchasing the various components individually.

Customers can choose holiday packages for as many as 35 cities in and around Vistara’s network of 21 destinations, at getaways.airvistara.com. The packages include convenient air travel options on Vistara, airport transfers as well as car rental options, and carefully curated sightseeing tours, and hotel stays at the best properties in partnership with leading hotel chains such as Taj, Hyatt, Radisson, Le Meridien, and upscale boutique hotels.

by TNH DESK

WESTIN HOTELS & RESORTS DEBUTS IN KOLKATA, RAJARHAT

East India welcomes an energizing retreat for Business and Leisure travellers.

Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International Inc., continues to expand its portfolio with the opening of its eighth hotel in India, The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat. The second hotel in Kolkata & East India under theMarriott International portfolioand the

first under the Westin Hotels & Resorts umbrella, the property is set to bring the brand’s signature well-being offerings, empowering guests to be their best selves on the road. Located 8 kilometers from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and a kilometer away from the International Convention Centre, The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat distinguishes itself with the

globally-acclaimed Westin experience of superb facilities, delicious cuisine, innovative wellness initiatives and tailored services, offering an invigorating environment and personal tranquility.

The Face of Spirituality, a 105ft mural by the lobby, intricately captures the spirit of the ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata,allowing guests a sense of calmness and serene energy.

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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NEWS

GOD’S OWN COUNTRY SET FOR REBRANDING The latest promotional campaigns of Kerala Tourism are “Yalla Kerala” targeting the Middle East.

In an attempt to entice the young, new-age travellers, Kerala Tourism has made a joint endeavour with the state forest department to offer an impeP. Bala Kiran tus to adventure tourism Director, Department of Tourism, Kerala keeping the natural environment intact. According to P Bala Kiran, Director, Department of Tourism, Kerala, “We are trying to offer water-based activities that include kayaking and cruise tourism.

by TNH DESK

REALIZING THE DREAMS OF LUXURY TRAVELLERS NYC & COMPANY ENCOURAGES VISITORS TO TREASURE HUNT AT BOTH ICONIC AND LESSER-KNOWN HOLIDAY SHOPPING GEMS Driven by a passion to innovate in the world of luxury, Radisson Blu Agra has opened its luxury wing full of big surprises for high-end travellers.

The luxury hospitality set-up that depicts the Mughal era in the city of Taj stands tall in having the biggest coffee shop in the country and the second biggest banquet space with a pillar less hall in India. The top-ranking hospitality group is inevitably Radisson Blu Agra that kick-started its luxury wing sometime during Diwali this year.

by TNH DESK

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TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

NYC & Company, New York City’s official destination marketing organization, invites global visitors to the City during the festive holiday season to embark on an urban shopping excursion through Manhattan and the boroughs beyond. On the heels of the launch of NYC & Company’s new global tourism campaign, “True York City,” options for gift seekers looking to discover holiby TNH DESK day treasures are plentiful and diverse.

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NEWS

Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi concludes highly successful five-city roadshow to India Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism has successfully concluded its five-city

Aitken Spence Hotels, Aitken Spence Travels Sri Lanka and Sri Lankan Airlines conduct FAM tour for leading Indian Travel Agents Aitken Spence Hotels and Aitken Spence Travels Sri

roadshow across India which started in Delhi, before moving

Lanka, which are represented by Nijhawan Group in India, in

on to Bangalore, Chennai, Hyder-

association with Sri Lankan Airlines, recently hosted promi-

abad and Kolkata.

nent travel agents from Mumbai, India on a familiarization tour from 29th October to 2nd November, 2017.

The Department’s roadshow, which aimed to promote the emi-

Priyanka Nijhawan, Director, Nijhawan Group commented,

rate as a unique holiday destina-

“the FAM trip was a good opportunity to let the agents expe-

tion, was joined by major stakeholders including national airline Etihad Airways, Lama

Bejan Dinshaw Country Manager-India, Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority

rience the hotels along with other popular attractions in the city, which will help them advice clients planning a trip to Sri Lanka accordingly.”

Tours, Dusit Thani, Intercontinen-

trade partners and their constant

The four-day tour to Sri Lanka showcased some of the

tal, Rotana, Abu Dhabi Cruise,

support to us this year. With per-

premium hotels from the collection of Aitken Spence Hotels.

Yas Island, Royal Arabian and

sistent team effort, India has

The delegation led by Vineet Bangera, Sales Manager, Ni-

Jet Airways.

managed to retain its position as

jhawan Group consisted of prominent Travel Agents, who

a leading overseas source mar-

experienced the products with a stay at Heritance Ahun-

ager-India, Abu Dhabi Tourism

ket for Abu Dhabi. I see

galla, Heritance Negombo, Heritance Kandalama, Earl’s Re-

and Culture Authority, said: “We

suchroadshowsfurther boosting

gency and Turyaa Kalutara enabling them to promote the

would like to acknowledge the

tourism between India and Abu

properties better.

phenomenal work done by our

Dhabi.”

Bejan Dinshaw, Country Man-

by TNH DESK

by TNH DESK

Scrumptious return of the 3rd Edition for the Abu Dhabi Food Festival from December 7 to 23 The Department of Culture and Tourism –

& Friends, 2kg Burger Challenge, and a Market to Kitchen event. Sultan Al Dhaheri, Acting Executive Director, Tourism Sector, Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, said: "We are proud

Abu Dhabi has announced the full line-up of ac-

to be at the forefront of national efforts

tivities, presented in partnership with event com-

aimed at elevating the Emirate’s profile as

panies from the private sector including

a leading gastronomic destination across

Festember, Truckers, Dining & Nightlife maga-

the region. This edition will feature an ex-

zine and Zomato, taking place at the 2017 Abu

tensive event calendar that highlights the

Dhabi Food Festival. This year's festival, which

diversity of our culinary delights and our

starts on December 7th and runs until Decem-

avant-garde restaurant concepts. By col-

ber 23rd, will include a fantastic menu of events

laborating with a wide range of govern-

for foodies, visitors and families from across the

ment and private partners, we are able to

Enrico Bartolini, 2 Star Michelin Chef Roberto's Restaurant, Abu Dhabi

UAE and wider region to enjoy. Marking the festival's third edition, the event will

position Abu Dhabi as a destination of distinction that attracts visitors from across

feature the return of some all-time favourites as well as an array of international

the region who come to enjoy its unmatched offerings and exciting events."

chefs and some new gastronomic experiences.

This Abu Dhabi Food Festival will also witness the return of some of the most

Spread over 17 days across Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain and Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi

cherished events including Street Fest (14th – 17th and 21st – 23rd December),

Food Festival will serve up more than 15 new feature events including 40 mule

Ripe Night Market (9th December) 40 Mule By Festember (13th – 17th Decem-

by Festember, Truckers Carnival, Beach Feast, Truckers Park, the Big Piknik, the

ber) and Sial Middle East (12th – 14th December).

Delicious Cinema, the Street Food Market, the Truckers Exit and the Top Secret

by TNH DESK

Long Table, Food and Fashion, Caviar and Art, Longest Pizza in the UAE, Enrico

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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NEWS

IndiGo offers attractive Flexi Fares • 6E’s Flexi fares to provide

gers whose travel plans might be tentative, Flexi Fare provides the flexibility to make unlimited changes to their flights at a very small premium over Regular Fare.

In addition to Flexi Fare product,

flexibility to passengers to

6E has also extended the Stu-

make unlimited changes to

dents and Senior Citizen dis-

their flights

counts till 31st Mar 2018.

• Students and Senior Citi-

Under this scheme, Students

Ministry of Tourism awards ‘Letters of Intent’ to Yatra under its ‘Adopt a Heritage Scheme’ Yatra Online has been shortlisted for the adoption of four monuments in-

zens discounts now available

and Senior Citizens can get at-

cluding Qutub Minar

till 31st Mar 2018

tractive discounts not only on their

(Delhi), Ajanta Caves

onward journeys but even higher

(Maharashtra), Hampi

bility to our customers to re-

discounts on their Round-Trip

(Karnataka) and Leh

schedule their flights without

journeys with IndiGo. Both corpo-

Palace (Jammu & Kash-

worrying about the Change Fee,

rate and leisure customers travel-

mir), under ‘Adopt a Her-

IndiGo is offering its special prod-

ling with IndiGo will now have

itage Scheme’ of Ministry

uct called “Flexi Fare” at attractive

wider choices to make changes at

of Tourism, Govt. of India.

price levels. Aimed for passen-

lower premium.

The ‘Letter of Intent’ has been given to select companies, in-

In an endeavour to provide flexi-

by TNH DESK

Dhruv Shringi CEO, Yatra.com

cluding Yatra, for adopting certain monuments under the scheme at the closing ceremony of ‘Paryatan Parv’ held in New Delhi recently. The objective of this initiative is to increase the attractiveness of the sites, enhance the visiting experience, improve accessibility and engage with the community in addition to providing and managing basic and advanced amenities at these sites. Dhruv Shringi, CEO Yatra.com, “At Yatra, we want to create and conserve an India that is enjoyed by all visitors whether Indians, foreigners, residents or tourists, for today and future generations. By being a part of this endeavor to promote heritage and conserve India’s historical legacy, we are committed to give back to the society by putting our community at the very core of our business. ”

by TNH DESK

1589 Hotels: a legacy from Clarks Hotels Group 1589 Hotels, set up in 2014 draws its legacy from the prestigious Clarks Hotels Group. The chain was set up with a view to cater within the upscale and economy hotel segment. A professional hotel management company, with over 31 operational hotels, 1422 operational rooms. As a unique name in itself, 1589 hotels endeavour to create unique experiences & make luxury affordable to all.

It is promoted & spear headed by Anant Kumar & Udit Kumar. Young & very dynamic hoteliers by birth, fully involved, which makes a marked difference to the overall experience and delivery. The

16

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

chain Operates across a wide spectrum of hotels under its Brand umbrella of - Brij , Atre’, GenX, RnB Select, RnB & 1589 Hotels also being a brand in itself.

Pankaj Giroti, CHA – VP Business Development & PR said, the company has added the following destination within last 60 days – Bhopal (City), Alwar, Bhavnagar, Bhopal (Highway), Jim Corbett & Udaipur, adding on an inventory of 386 rooms to the brands kitty. The Target for the coming 12 months would be to add on 36 Hotels/Resort to the Portfolio and increase the room inventory up to plus

by TNH DESK 3000.

Pankaj Giroti CHA–VP Business Development & PR

December 2017--Final_Layout 1 12/5/2017 9:28 PM Page 17

NEWS

KARNATAKA SHOWCASES ITS WILD SIDE AT WORLD TRAVEL MARKET 2017 Karnataka Tourism had participated in the World Travel Market (WTM) that was held in London from 6-8 November 2017. True to its tagline, Karnataka is truly One State, Many Worlds as it is a land unparalleled in diversity; be it Heritage, Culture, Nature, Beaches or Wildlife. Karnataka is primarily known for its Heritage destinations and its Wildlife/ National Parks. Apart from that, it is also famous

GARUDA INDONESIA RENEWS COMMITMENT TO AMADEUS ALTÉA SUITE Amadeus Altéa Suite has powered Garuda Indonesia’s passenger service operations since 2013, supporting the airline’s successful transformation.

Garuda Indonesia and Amadeus have extended a longstanding IT partnership which will see the Indonesia’s flag-carrier continue to use the full Amadeus Altéa Suite, Amadeus’ cutting-edge passenger service system (PSS), and commit to exploring new partnerships with Amadeus in the areas of customer experience management, personalisation and digital.

Airline passenger service systems are mission-critical and highly complex platforms that form the technology backbone for airlines.

by TNH DESK

for its magical hill stations, spectacular waterfalls, pilgrimage centers and a 320km long coastline dotted with unspoiled beaches. Thus, making it an ideal place for a traveller with diverse interests.

What made this year special is that Karnataka Tourism has declared 2017 as ‘Year of the Wild’. Karnataka Tourism is committed to preserve the precious natural heritage of the state and this is one of the first steps taken to fulfill this objective. In many ways, Karnataka is a trendsetter of the green movement in the Indian hospitality field. Long before ‘going green’ became fashionable; the Government of

by TNH DESK Karnataka embraced the natural world.

ITDC POSTS SIGNIFICANT 14.18 CR PROFIT IN HALF YEARLY (2017-18) RESULTS India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), the public sector undertaking under the aegis of the Ministry of Tourism, posted a significant performance in half yearly results of the current financial year 2017-18. The total turnover in H1 ending September 2017 increased to Rs. 172.49 cr as compared to Rs. 170.94 cr in the corresponding H1 last year. The company registered Profit before Tax (PBT) at Rs. 14.18 cr as compared to Rs. 9.59 cr in the corresponding H1 last year i.e. 2017-18, an increase of 48 % as compared to the last financial year.

These details were announced in the Board of Directors’ meeting of the company on 14th November, 2017 at the Group’s flagship hotel, The Ashok, New Delhi. The momentum generated in last financial year has also continued in first

by TNH DESK half of the financial year 2017-18.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

17

December 2017--Final_Layout 1 12/5/2017 9:28 PM Page 18

NEWS

Hassan Madah Director Israel Ministry of Tourism, India & Philippines

Dead Sea

ISRAEL BREAKS TOURISM RECORD IN INDIA Israel also witnessed a phenomenal growth of 58% of Indian visitor arrivals in the month of October 2017 as compared to October 2016.

Israel, for the second consecutive year has broken its tourism record in

India along with reaching a whopping 3 million tourists arrival mark this year.

More than 49,000 Indians have already visited Israel until October, 2017 marking a growth of 34% from January to October vis-à-vis the same period last year as per statistics released by Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT).

Speaking about the positive growth, Hassan Madah – Director, Israel Ministry of Tourism India said, “This has

been the best year of incoming tourist arrivals for Israel and India continues to be an important contributor for us. Our effort towards promoting Israel as a dynamic holiday destination as opposed to its otherwise restricted perception as a religious destination is yielding positive results and we are witnessing successful outcomes of our increased investments in the Indian market.”

by TNH DESK

KERALA TOURISM ORGANISES CARNATIC MUSIC FESTIVAL (L-R) Rohit Ramadchandran, CEO, Jazeera Airways and SGK Kishore CEO, GHIAL

KUWAIT’S JAZEERA AIRWAYS CONNECTS TO INDIA WITH DAILY FLIGHTS TO HYDERABAD Jazeera Airways, operating regionally and internationally, inaugurated its daily flights to Hyderabad. Upon arrival in India, Jazeera Airways held a joint press conference with GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. (GHIAL), which operates Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, bringing together media partners, travel agents from Kuwait and Hyderabad and

by TNH DESK other distinguished guests.

18

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

In order to attract tourist footfall, DTPC Palakkad organized the week long Kalpathy National Music Festival in association with the cultural department. The six-day festival was designed to promote the classical music as well as the culturally rich state of Kerala as a prime tourist destination. A K Balan Honorable Minister for Cultural Affairs of Kerala inaugurated the closing ceremony of this iconic cultural event on November 13th. The opening ceremony of the event was inaugurated by M. B. Rajesh on Purandaradasa Day (Nov 8) and was presided over by Shafi

by TNH DESK Parambil, MLA.

M. B. Rajesh inaugurated the Kalpathy National Music Festival, organized by DTPC Palakkad

December 2017--Final_Layout 1 12/5/2017 9:28 PM Page 19

NEWS

LOUVRE HOTELS GROUP INAUGURATED ITS FLAGSHIP GOLDEN TULIP IN SHANGHAI EASEMYTRIP CELEBRATED CHILDREN’S DAY WITH KIDS OF BAL SAHYOG Louvre Hotels Group and its shareholder Jin Jiang International recently inaugurated the Golden Tulip Shanghai Rainbow, flagship of the brand’s new positioning and symbol of the Group’s development in Asia. Located at the heart of the Hongqiao district, this hotel welcomes business travellers with a unique experience.

A revamped hotel designed to meet new needs and demands: Offering 600 rooms, 1,100 m² of conference space, 3 restaurants and 4 bars, this hotel blends local authenticity with all the amenities demanding business clients have come to expect.

by TNH DESK

EaseMyTrip celebrated Children’s Day in the most amazing way with kids of Bal Sahyog, a social welfare organization situated in Connaught Place, New Delhi.

EaseMyTrip has always been proactive into taking initiatives to work beyond the screen and has made sure of indulging into diverse activities for not only employee engagement but social wellbeing as well. Bal Sahyog was established by late Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi in 1954, for the protection and welfare of orphan, helpless, abandoned and neglected children. Prime Minister of India is the supporter of Bal Sahyog, which also has its centers in the slums of Delhi that provide nutrition, health care, eduby TNH DESK cation and protection to the needy kids.

OYO LAUNCHES INDIA’S FIRST HOME MANAGEMENT SERVICE TO UNLOCK SECOND HOMES IN HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS On a mission to build affordable and beautiful living spaces for travellers, OYO has announced an industry-first innovation.

OYO Home is a Home Management service that utilizes the company’s existing on-ground operations, hospitality technology, housekeeping skills, revenue management algorithms and distribution prowess to deliver a hassle-free solution to second

by TNH DESK home-owners.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

19

December 2017--Final_Layout 1 12/5/2017 9:28 PM Page 20

COVER STORY

2017: The year that was...

2017 was an exciting time for the travel industry! Governments in India and around the world were putting serious focus into promoting tourism in anticipation of a rapidly growing global middle class, new technology and fiercer competition in the industry. From the introduction of GST to a cabinet reshuffle there were a lot to report in the outgoing year. So we have decided to revisit stories reported on over the year in order to present you the year 2017 in a nutshell.

v B ARCHANA SHARMA Y

January: Donald Trump’s inauguration as President of The United States and its impact on India Donald Trump’s victory in the US Presidential election

dent affected the world’s fastest developing economy.

was one of the most shocking and surprising events in

Notably, Trump’s opinion on India has largely been

world politics. But the real drama only began when he

positive. However, on the flipside his controversial

ascended to arguably the most powerful post in the

travel ban on various middle-east countries and his

world. There was a lot of focus on its impact on India.

stringent stance on immigration has had adverse im-

India and the world wanted to understand how the

pact on travel, tourism and global exchange.

world’s most economically developed nation’s presi-

20

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

December 2017--Final_Layout 1 12/5/2017 9:28 PM Page 21

COVER STORY

February: FM Arun Jaitley presented the Union Budget for the year 2017-18 FM Arun Jaitley presented an inclusive and growth ori-

more, he announced the setting up of five special

ented Union Budget for Financial Year 2017-18. The

tourism zones in partnership with the states across the

Union Budget rekindled the hope in India's growth

country. In addition, it was announced that airports

story and aimed to revive the economy and boost

would be developed in tier-2 cities under PPP to im-

spending post demonetization that had significantly

prove regional connectivity. Finally, for the first time in

slowed down the economy. The budget had some good

India’s history the Railway Budget was subsumed into

news for the tourism industry. While introducing the

the general budget in which, the Indian railways got a

Union Budget, he also mentioned the launch of the In-

boost of Rs. 55, 000 crores. Dedicated trains for tourism

credible India 2.0 campaign across the world. Further-

and pilgrimage were also announced.

March: Financial Year Ends, impact of Demonetisation continues On November 8, 2016, PM Narendra Modi announced de-

big push to the digitalization of our economy, encourag-

monetization of higher value notes of Rs 500 and Rs

ing use of digital and online payments. For the first time

1000. People got time till December 2016 to exchange

millions of Indians including small business owners like

demonetized notes. Whether we agreed with the objec-

local shopkeepers, autowalas etc. started using digital

tives of the demonetization or not, it adversely impacted

payments. Also, with a lot of fanfare Yogi Adityanath was

our economy in short to medium term. The financial

appointed as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh on 26

year-end therefore was a time for a lot of calculations,

March 2017 after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won

innovative fixes, theories, and speculations. The silver

the 2017 State Assembly elections. Also, Air India an-

lining however is that the demonetization has given a

nounced direct flights to Tel Aviv, Israel.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

21

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COVER STORY

April: TnH Awards 2016 was held with much fanfare at The Imperial, New Delhi & 'Experiential Travel’ The month of April was very important as the IIIrd Travel

and the list goes on. This time there were 29 awards

and Hospitality Awards ceremony was hosted at The Im-

presented

perial, New Delhi. The TnH Awards are the ultimate

individuals/organizations for their most outstanding

recognitions of excellence and achievement in the Indian

achievements and contributions to the Indian travel and

travel and tourism industry. The event was graced by

tourism industry. In the month of April, the trending phe-

the crème de la crème of the Indian government, diplo-

nomenon was ‘experiential travel’. Another significant

macy and industry. Some of the prominent guests pres-

occurrence was the opening of 13 new facilities in dif-

ent at the occasion were L.K. Advani, Suresh Prabhu, Dr.

ferent cities by VFS Global and the Government of Japan

Jayant Sinha, Rahul Bhatia, Ajay Singh, Ashwani Lohani

to prepare for the impending 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

in

six

broad

categories

to

select

May: 3 years of Modi Government May 2017 marked the completion of three years of the

panded to include most of countries. The Modi govern-

Modi government. Some of the remarkable accomplish-

ment also announced and has spearheading 'Swachh

ments of the Government in these years include the

Bharat Abhiyan’ to make India clean. In these three

new integrated transportation initiative for roads, rail-

years, the Modi Government took some positive steps

ways, waterways and civil aviation, introduction of the

for the development of tourism, however the tourism

new Civil Aviation Policy and UDAN scheme. Around

industry thinks that the government has not lived up

4800 crores have been invested in constructing tourism

to their promises. On May 22, a suicide bombing at

circuits. The MoT launched a multi-lingual helpline

Manchester Arena, England, after Ariana Grande con-

number to help foreign tourists. In order to improve for-

cert stunned the world with terror by killing 22 and in-

eign tourist arrival, ‘E-visa’ was launched and ex-

juring 59.

22

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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COVER STORY

June: The news of GST broke down The government broke down the news of the goods

its Presidential Candidate for Presidential Election. Cox

and services tax (GST), which is the biggest tax reform

& Kings Global Services (CKGS) announced the opening

since Independence. It announced the mega launch of

of Algeria Visa Application and Information Centres

GST on midnight of June 30. However, the hospitality

(AVAIC) at six different locations including Mumbai. The

industry was disappointed over the GST rates an-

other AVAICs are based in Pune, Ahmedabad, Goa, In-

nounced for hotels and restaurants. On June 17, another

dore and Chennai respectively. Korean Air honored as

major metro rail project 'Kochi Metro' was inaugurated

the “Best Airline Service Provider” by topping the

by PM Modi. It was the 13-km corridor between Aluva

Global Customer Satisfaction Index for 13 consecutive

and Palarivattom and longest to be inaugurated in the

years. Serena Hotels East Africa appointed Nijhawan

first phase. Also, BJP announced Ramanath Kovind as

Group as their India Representative.

July: GST came into force India’s biggest tax reform Goods and Services Tax (GST)

vatization of Air India started. The first meeting to dis-

came into effect from 1 July, 2017 to make India a single

cuss the process for same was held at finance ministry

market with a common tax structure. The GST Council

led by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, and attended by

pegged 18% GST rate for hotels charging room rentals

Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju, the then Rail-

between Rs. 2500 and Rs. 5000 and 28% for those

ways Minister Suresh Prabhu, Power minister Piyush

charging above Rs. 5000. This was criticized by the

Goyal and the then Air India Chairman and Managing

hospitality industry. In July, the beautiful city of

Director Ashwani Lohani. Ram Nath Kovind took over

Ahmedabad was declared as the First World Heritage

as 14th President of India on 25 July 2017.

City of India by UNESCO. In addition, a buzz of the pri-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

23

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COVER STORY

August: Privatization of Air India was the buzz The privatization of Air India became a very important

The Country Inn & Suites by CarlsonSM made its debut

point of discussion in the government and the civil avi-

in Kota, Rajasthan. The hotel became the first interna-

ation sector in August. With the announcement of dis-

tional brand in the city. Also, the month marked around

investment of Airline, IndiGo publicly expressed their

11% growth in FTAs. Travel Agent Association of India's

interest in Air India. The Tata group also sought details

64th annual convention was supposed to be held at

from the government in informal conversations to ac-

Kunming city of China from August 18-20, but due to

quire it. In August, the government of Malaysia intro-

the border-tension between the countries, the conven-

duced the new Multiple Entry E-Visa facility for Indian

tion was postponed. Dipak Misra was sworn in as 45th

tourists with effect from August 1, 2017 to July 31, 2018.

Chief Justice of India on August 28, 2017.

September: IATO convention, Union Cabinet Reshuffle & introduction of much-awaited Bullet train September saw a big Union Cabinet Reshuffle 2017.

minister Suresh Prabhu. Rajiv Bansal, additional secre-

Alphons Kannanthanam was appointed the new Min-

tary and financial advisor in the Petroleum Ministry,

ister of State for Tourism, replacing Dr. Mahesh Sharma,

joined as the new chairman of Air India. Also, PM Modi

who will continue to be Minister of State for Culture.

and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe inaugurated

Piyush Goyal was appointed as the new Railway Min-

India’s first and much awaited bullet train project. The

ister replacing Suresh Prabhu. Further, the appoint-

train will connect Mumbai and Ahmedabad. On the

ments committee of the cabinet appointed the then Air

trade side, the 33rd IATO was held in Bhubaneswar,

India Chairman & MD Ashwani Lohani as the Chairman

Odisha. 'Time-to-reinvent-ourselves' was the theme for

of the Railway Board. Lohani took over from A.K. Mittal,

the convention recognizing the stagnation in the

whose resignation was accepted by the old railway

tourism industry and the need to reinvent.

24

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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COVER STORY

October: Festive month of the year, TAFI Convention in Turkey The month of October had been a festive month as most

year. The Sharjah Tourism board conducted a 4 city

of the festivals were occurred during this month. From

tourism promotional roadshow for stakeholders & travel

Eruvathiyetam Onam (in Kerala) and Muharram to the

agents in Chennai, Hyderabad, Jaipur and Ahmedabad

biggest festival of India, Diwali attracted many domestic

from October 9 - 12, 2017 respectively. Also, at the end

as well as international tourists. The long festive week-

of the month Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI)

ends also made a trend of tourist influx in India this year.

2017 convention was conducted in the beautiful country

The next festival in line was Chhat Puja, the festival of

of Turkey at two unexplored cities i.e. Dalaman and An-

the Sun which attracted many international tourists this

talya. The convention was held from October 27-31, 2017.

November: WTM 2017 in London, ADTOI in Vizag; Moody upgraded India after 13-14 years The much awaited annual travel show, World Travel

structure growth. Moody upgrades India after around

Market (WTM) 2017 was conducted from 6-8 Novem-

13-14 years to attract investments in India. The news

ber, 2017. This year Responsible Tourism was one of

of legislative election to take place in Himachal Pradesh

the key themes of this prestigious international travel

was issued on November 9. Also, taking another step

trade show. Another important travel event, conducted

in providing good transportation, PM Modi inaugurated

by Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India

the Hyderabad Metro and took the first ride at Miyapur

(ADTOI) 2017 at Vishakhapatnam (Vizag) and the theme

Station to Kukatpally on November 28. He took the jour-

of the convention was “Explore India – One Country,

ney along with Telangana CM K Chandrasekhar Rao

Many Worlds.” The business sessions were focused on

and Governor ESL Narasimhan.

new ideas, the MICE industry, weddings, and infra-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

25

December 2017--Final_Layout 1 12/5/2017 9:28 PM Page 26

YEAR-END REVIEW

Anil Parashar

President and CEO InterGlobe Technology Quotient

Ritesh Agarwal

Founder & CEO, OYO Rooms

Ankush Nijhawan

MD, Nijhawan Group & Co-Founder & CEO, Travel Boutique Online

Vijay Jaiswal

Sr. VP – Sales & Marketing, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts

YEAR 2017: AN EVENTFUL YEAR FOR INDIA'S TRAVEL & TOURISM INDUSTRY Year 2017 has been quite an eventful year for India's Travel & Tourism Industry, which has been struggling to cope up with major policy changes such as GST that was introduced this year.

v B ARCHANA SHARMA Y

W

e are at the end of

happy, many are disappointed

year 2017, which saw

with the year.

various ups and

Anil Parashar, President and

downs. The year witnessed some

CEO, ITQ, said, “2017 has played

changes of far-reaching impact

an instrumental role in making

like introduction of GST, merger

tourism industry one of the key

of Railway Budget into the Gen-

growth drivers in Indian econ-

eral Budget, the launch of In-

omy. As a step towards position-

credible India 2.0 campaign and

ing India as one of the top travel

decision to constitute new spe-

markets by 2022, government

cial tourism zones, etc. However,

has initiated multiple reforms like

the implementation of the Goods

e-visa extension to more coun-

and Services Tax (GST) severely

tries and launch of UDAN. This

impacted the industry due to its

along with advent of digitaliza-

different tax rate slabs for differ-

tion, mobile wallets, increasing

ent categories of hotels rooms,

cleanliness awareness and rise

besides its poor implementation.

in disposable income of the mid-

TnH talked to some of the indus-

dle class has created a phase of

try veterans to know their view

enormous growth for the Indian

about the year. While some are

Tourism Industry."

26

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

In 2017, Foreign Tourist Arrivals grew 18 % year-on-year due to the extension of e-visa to almost 200 countries. Ankush Nijhawan, MD, Nijhawan Group & CoFounder & CEO, Travel Boutique Online, mentioned that GST was one of the key policy changes for the industry in 2017. However, its impact was over-hyped by many travel agents. For us, the GST is just a replacement of service tax.

The new tax regime has mended the business and made travel services more transparent to the customers. "In 2017, we have grown in all segments such as TBO and Nijhawan Group representation portfolio. Our TBO business grew 35% this year. The representation portfolio added Serena Hotels, iVenture Card International and Dubai Tourism this year,” added Nijhawan.

December 2017--Final_Layout 1 12/5/2017 9:28 PM Page 27

Giving a thumps up for the

Rooms said that 2017 witnessed

which was short-lived, the

year, Nishant Pitti, CEO and Co-

some big-ticket reforms such as

growth trend in the bookings for

founder, EaseMyTrip.com, said

demonetisation, RERA and GST.

online travel continued. Not

that many new things happened

"At OYO, we welcomed the tax

everyone is happy about the

in 2017. EaseMyTrip associated

relief for small hoteliers and a

events and changes that oc-

with Bollywood films like Tube-

lower slab for budget hotels,"

curred in 2017. Many are critical

light and Jab Harry Met Sejal as

said Aggarwal. On the whole,

of the implementation of GST.

distributor and also became co-

2017 has been a year that has

“The implementation of GST has

producer of the upcoming histori-

set us up for the great strides we

major impact on tourism industry

cal drama ‘Manikarnika – The

can make in the last leg of this

as the taxes has been diversified

Queen of Jhansi’. "Demonetiza-

decade, he added.

in different slabs, which has af-

tion brought a temporary slow

Apart from the impact of de-

fected majorly on our business in

down for travel industry but this

monetization, 2017 also saw the

India. Almost 70% of our busi-

change brought a positive impact

Supreme Court banning liquor

ness from India got eroded be-

as travelers got drawn towards

sale at establishments within

cause of GST," said Prakash

using plastic money for safer

500 metres from highways that

Bang, Founder & Executive Chair-

transactions," said Pitti.

impacted adversely for hospital-

man, roomsXML Solutions.

The demonetization that was

ity business across India. "Liquor

According to Maheer Singh

announced by the PM Modi on

sale alone accounts for 20-30%

Sethi, Co-Founder, Travkart.com,

8th November 2016, adversely

share of the total food and bev-

the union budget 2017-18 added

affected tourism as well as the

erage revenue. The ban also im-

some more feathers to the indus-

economy beyond 2016. But it

pacted the revenue from the

try. He said that the year 2017

also has some positive impacts.

meetings, incentives, confer-

was no different in terms of rev-

The demonetization gave a big

ences and exhibitions (MICE)

enue generation and pulling

push to the digital economy, en-

segment," said Vijay Jaiswal, Sr.

more visitors. It has been a year

couraging digital and online pay-

VP – Sales & Marketing, Sarovar

full with a rollercoaster ride end-

ments with rise of e-wallet

Hotels & Resorts.

ing on a better note as compared

companies like Paytm. Concur-

Amit Taneja, Chief Revenue Of-

ring with views of Pitti, Ritesh

ficer at Cleartrip said that post

Aggarwal, Founder & CEO, OYO

the initial knee-jerk lull period

to last year.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

27

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FEATURE

FIVE TRAVEL COMPANIES THAT BLEW OUR MINDS IN 2017 The year 2017 witnessed some of the travel companies and start-ups growing exponentially or doing something extraordinary. Company like Airbnb consolidated its position in India, registering remarkably a strong growth. Some new companies impressed customers as well as investors with their innovative travel solutions and business model. Read about some of the travel companies that gained extra momentum and made an remarkable impact this year.

v B PREM KUMAR

there is a massive 300% increase in Indians using Airbnb's homestays within India. Airbnb's lodging listings have gone up by 115% over the last one year in India. Airbnb is focusing on 230 million Indian millennials, who are travelling far more and are seeking authentic experiences.

Airbnb aims to increase listings

Y

Airbnb India

has hosted one million Indians.

in India by another 50,000 in the

2017 proved to be a very produc-

Airbnb is according high priority

coming years through continued

tive year in India for alternative

to Indian market, recognizing it as

investment into marketing, brand-

accommodations company Airbnb.

a key strategic market for itself,

ing and local partnerships. Airbnb

After maintaining a modest

which has four million properties

has also partnered with the gov-

growth rate for years, the com-

listed across 68,000 cities in 191

ernments in Gujarat, Andhra

pany witnessed an exponential

countries.

Pradesh and Maharashtra to boost

growth in India, both in terms of

The number of foreigners using

number of users as well as list-

Airbnb in India has increased by

ings in the last one year, during

187% growth, at the same time

tourism in those states. It has also partnered with Jet Airways.

which Airbnb India witnessed

Goomo

nearly 200% growth in the Coun-

Goomo, a travel tech startup,

try, and made deep inroads in

which is owned and

India. Since 2008, Airbnb

operated by Singapore

28

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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FEATURE

and Mumbai-based Goomo Hold-

TravelTriangle

operates TravelTriangle.com,

ings, surprised many in 2017 by

Founded in 2011, TravelTriangle

raised $10 million in a series B

raising $50 million (about Rs 332

has emerged as one of the lead-

round of funding. This round of

crore) in funding from Mauritius-

ing online travel companies in

funding was led Singapore-

based private equity firm, Emerg-

India. TravelTriangle brings both

based venture capital firm, RB In-

ing India. This is one of the

the travelers, and trusted travel

vestments. Existing investors SAIF

largest fundings raised by a

agents/experts on a common plat-

Partners and Bessemer Venture

startup that operate in the online

form. With its highly innovative

Partners also participated in the

travel space, besides the two big

and technology-focused product,

round of the funding. TravelTrian-

players - MakeMyTrip and Yatra.

TravelTriangle aims to cater to all

gle is investing the funds in

Goomo came into being after

kinds of holiday solutions to cus-

technology and product develop-

Emerging India acquired Orbit

tomers, and the company is very

ment. Holiday Triangle Travel

Corporate and Leisure Tours,

much on the way to achieve the

which are traditional travel com-

same.

panies, in November, 2015, and

Early this year, the Noida-based

then launched the online travel

company, Holiday Triangle

company Goomo.com in March

Travel, which

2017. Besides online, Goomo will continue to have offline presence. Goomo will provide bookings for corporate and consumer travel through its online as well as offline channels.

Goomo, which focuses on India, will be fully functional in the next two years. Goomo will provide booking solutions to customers for airlines, hotel rooms across different segments and categories, transportation services, shopping experiences and other postbooking travel services.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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FEATURE

had previously raised a $1.7 million pre-series A funding in July 2014, followed by a series A round of $8 million in April 2015.

Founded in 2011 by Sankalp Agarwal, Prabhat Gupta and Sanchit Garg, TravelTriangle connects customers to travel agents, fetches quotations, customizes trips and makes bookings online.

TravelTriangle has a team of over 400 people.

While the larger goal of the

cars club across the country. Hype

team is to create and enable com-

offers India’s first super-luxury car

fortable travel for people with dis-

rental app.

Enable Travel

abilities across mobility

While travel has become a way of

(wheelchairs), hearing, speech

designs in next generation tech-

life for most Indians, the need to

and vision impairment, the ex-

nology and business models

explore the travel interests and

perts have been working together

prompted Raghav Belavadi, the

aspirations of those with disabili-

championing the message of

CEO of the company, to found

ties who constitute 2.2% of our

making India more inclusive, one

HYPE, which already has its

total population hasn’t been re-

initiative at a time. Recently, the

presence in 16 cites. Making an

flected upon, not by many. To

team launched a petition #Ramp-

outstanding presence in ultra lux-

serve this segment of travellers

MyRestaurant addressed to Min-

ury transportation space, Hype of-

who are waiting to take their

istry of Social Welfare And

fers unparallel comfort in its

dream holiday, ‘Enable Travel’,

Development, Ministry of Tourism

luxury cars that includes best of

Accessible holiday specialist was

India and National Restaurant As-

all the luxury brands such as Audi

created early this year, by a group

sociation of India to provide a

Ax, BMW, Chrysler Limousine,

of disabled experts who share a

ramp at the entrance of restau-

Mercedes Benz, Rolls Royce etc.

common love for travel and have

rants or easy access as a tempo-

Cars of Hype are perfectly de-

defied all odds to make it happen,

rary measure until restaurants

signed to be shared, easy to

have put their collective travel ex-

become 100% disable friendly.

schedule and highly punctual.

perience to use and help other disabled individuals realise their

Hype

travel dreams. Thereby, making

A travel technology company,

this initiative ‘made by the dis-

HYPE is a mobile platform that of-

abled for the disabled’. The initia-

fers transport services in super

tive is powered by the travel

luxury cars. In a very short span

group – Cox & Kings and headed

of time, HYPE has gained reputa-

by Debolin Sen.

tion of being an icon of elite class

30

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

Creating some of the futuristic

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NEWS

Ravneet Kaur Chairperson & Managing Director

Piyush Tiwari Director (commercial & Marketing)

ITDC, STATE TOURISM DEPARTMENTS DISCUSS STRATEGIC ALLIANCE TO DEVELOP TOURISM The Management of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), the public sector undertaking under the aegis of the Ministry of Tourism invited India's State Tourism Corporations/Departments for a Round Table to find possible solutions to develop tourism

for respective states leading to overall growth of Indian Tourism Industry at The Ashok. The Session was presided over by Ravneet Kaur, Chairperson & Managing Director, ITDC in presence of Piyush Tiwari, Director Commercial & Marketing, ITDC; and other respective

heads of the divisions. Shivdular Singh Dhillon, CEO, Punjab Heritage Tourism Promotion Board and Suman Thapa, SCS, CEO, Sikkim Tourism Development Board were among the senior delegates that attended the meeting. Other State Tourism Corporations/Departments present in the meeting were from states of Assam, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and Tripura. by TNH DESK

VIRGIN ATLANTIC AND THE SLEEP COUNCIL REVEAL THE SECRET TO A GOOD FLIGHT’S SLEEP Virgin Atlantic has partnered with experts at The Sleep Council to combine airline industry tips and professional advice to help customers get some shut eye at 38,000ft.

Most travellers struggle to get forty winks whilst flying meaning they can miss out on precious hours of their holiday due to jet lag. Virgin Atlantic has launched three tailored guides for the Upper, Premium Economy and Economy cabin giving helpful information from preparation the day before, tips onboard and what to do once you’ve landed to switch to holiday mode.

Top tips include: Time for take off: A top tip from Virgin Atlantic cabin crew is to set your watch to your destination time so you

can start eating at those meal times.

You are what you eat: It’s best to avoid carb heavy food when you want to get to sleep. Instead try something lighter and snack on energy giving foods such as bananas, nuts and wholemeal grains.

Old habits sleep hard: The Sleep Council suggests sticking as much as possible to your normal evening routine. From washing your face, removing any make up and giving your teeth a good brush, all these activities help to trigger your brain to get into sleep mode.

Get some Headspace: Virgin Atlantic have partnered with the mindfulness gurus at Headspace to provide tailored meditations for sleeping in each cabin. Customers can plug in and be guided through a meditation. by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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FEATURE

Five Cool Franchising Opportunities in the Travel and Tourism Industry v B NEHA KIRPAL Y

ravel franchising is one of the most

T

flourishing industries today. Linking one's individual business with a reputed travel brand is a win-win for any player. With a boom in leisure

and corporate travellers, there are excellent opportunities abound for travel entrepreneurs. We list here five of the best franchising opportunities in the travel and tourism industry.

OYO Rooms: India's largest branded network of hotels, OYO Rooms is operated in the budget segment of the hospitality industry. The chain that started with just one city and one hotel in Gurgaon in January 2013, currently has about

a host. Guests can also check in and check out

70,000 rooms in 8,500 hotels across 230 towns

instantly without waiting at a reservation desk.

of India. It now also has its presence in Malaysia

Airbnb: An online marketplace and hospitality

and Nepal. By partnering with various hotels,

service, Airbnb enables people to lease or rent

the company aims to provide standardization or

short-term lodging including vacation rentals,

similar experiences—including features such as

apartment rentals, homestays, hostel beds, or

WiFi and breakfast and flatscreen TVs—across

hotel rooms. The company does not own any

cities. Moreover, it enables guests to do on-de-

lodging; it is merely a broker and receives per-

mand booking without waiting for a reply from

centage service fees (commissions) from both guests and hosts in conjunction with every booking. With over 3,000,000 lodging listings in 65,000 cities and 191 countries, one is able to access unique homes, experiences, and places around the world at amazing prices.

Uniglobe Travel: With presence in over six continents, Uniglobe is the world’s largest single brand travel network of family owned travel businesses. Among the top five travel management companies in India, the central hub is Uniglobe International, based in Canada. The Uniglobe opportunity is to “sell more, earn more and spend less.” By customizing the Uniglobe support system to local requirements, the cus-

32

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FEATURE

Inn hotel brands in India. The company has also launched three domestic brands: Sarovar Premiere (upscale 5 star segment), Sarovar Portico (mid-market 3-4 star segment) and Hometel (3 star segment with cheaper room).

Choice Hotels: One of the largest and most successful lodging companies in the world, Choice currently franchises more than 6,500 hotels, representing more than 500,000 rooms, in more than 35 countries and territories. A hospitality holding corporation headquartered in the US, the company owns the hotel and motel brands Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality Inn, tomer gets access to buying power and resources of a global network while retaining their independence.

Sarovar Hotels & Resorts: The third largest hotel chain in India, it is privately owned with 75 hotels across the country and overseas. The chain is affiliated with Carlson Hospitality, which comprises more than 1,570 hotels, resorts,

Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Hotel & Suites, Mainstay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn and Ascend Hotel Collection. Ranging from limited service to full service hotels in the economy, mid-scale and upscale segments, Choice-branded properties provide business and leisure travelers with a range of high-quality, high-value lodging options.

restaurants and cruise ship operations in 81 countries. The association makes Sarovar the master franchisor for the Park Plaza and the Park

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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SIX INDIAN DESTINATIONS THAT DO CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR RIGHT

Cochin Carnival

v B NEHA KIRPAL Y

It’s always fun to plan a Christmas-New Year getaway. If you’ve visited all the same old party destinations in the past and are looking for some new ideas for inspiration, then read on our list of some interesting options to celebrate Christmas and ring in 2018 in style!

1. Fort Kochi, Kerala: The Cochin Carnival celebrated annually in the last week of December is the place to be for Christmas and New Year’s

Immaculate Conception Cathedral Puducherry

Eve celebration. Nearly a hundred thousand people attend the celebration every year. It ends with a massive procession on New Year's Day

tomary festivities at all of the city’s popular

led by an embellished elephant and accompa-

Gothic churches. Further, delectable Christmas

nied by music and drums. Various south and

buffets, traditional steaks and authentic wines

north Indian folk dances are also staged as part

will be the highlight at all the fancy French

of the festivities. Everyone is seen dressed in

bakeries and bistros and restaurants in town.

fancy costumes and impromptu competitions are

The tourist rush will be high around this time

hosted. Further, the burning of the gigantic Pap-

of the year, so it is advisable to make book-

panji or Santa on Fort Kochi beach on January

ings well in advance. Every hotel in town will

1st is an annual event not to be missed.

have some lavish party with pulsating dance floors, live bands or beachside parties to bring

2. Puducherry: Pondy truly comes alive during the last week of the year. One can revel in cus-

34

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

in the new year.

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FEATURE

solutely traditional Christmas, then head to Shillong. The Cathedral Church, the oldest in North East India, offers a Midnight Mass that is attended by people from all over the world.

It’s the time of the year when the city glitters with its century-old fir trees, melodious hymns and ringing bells. With its stunning natural beauty as a backdrop, complete with living root bridges and exciting Winters in Kasol

3. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh: The new year celebration at Kasol promises to be an occasion of great music and warm bonfires. With local and Israeli

trekking trails, your end-of-year plans simply can't be wrong here.

5. Diu: Owing to its Portuguese connection, celebrating ChristSunburn festival

mas in Diu is a delight. This

food on offer, travellers have the option to stay at cozy and comfortable riverside camps in

6. Pune, Maharashtra: Special

the wilderness. Further, the city

Christmas menus and decor,

is also hosting an exciting

amazing sales at malls, night-

music festival on the 30th and

street shopping…you can expe-

31st of December. Graffiti, tattoo

rience all this and more if you

parlour, live painting, DJ line-

plan to head to Pune for Christ-

up and live band performances

Saint Paul's Church

will be some of the activities at the event.

friendly city has lots of fabulous otherwise quiet union territory

4. Shillong, Meghalaya: If you want to experience an ab-

becomes bright and lively during the peak festive season.

With several cultural shows and Portuguese dance forms such as the Corrindinho on display, vibrant lamps light up the night sky. Here too, one can attend mass in city churches like Saint Paul’s Church, Se Cathedral and

Cathedral Church at Shillong

mas-New Year. This student-

Church of Our Lady of Rosary.

New Year parties. If you want to do an offbeat vacation, then try pub-hopping at Koregaon Park's quaint cafes and bars. Another bonus this year is the legendary electronic music festival, Sunburn, which after being held in Goa for the past 10 years, will be held in Pune around New Year’s Eve this year.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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EVENT WATCH

11TH TAFI ANNUAL CONVENTION HELD IN TURKEY The 11th annual convention of Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) was held in Turkey from 27-31 October, 2017 in two places, Dalaman and Antalya. The 11th TAFI international convention was inaugurated at the Hilton Dalaman Resort and Spa. The convention opened in Turkey with a focus on sustainable success as the way forward towards creating a vision for exponential business growth for the agent community as well as the destinations they promote.

TAFI President Praveen Chugh echoed this approach in his keynote address, noting how TAFI international conventions had historically made a direct impact on Indian outbound numbers to the host destination, and that the same will likely hold true for Turkey.

Later, Indian Ambassador to Turkey, Rahul Kulshresth observed the cultural, historic and architectural similarities between Turkey and India, and how both countries had supported each other during crucial times. “It is a shared belief that as we work closely together, people-to-people contact and cultural exchange will be key to sustain this relationship and that is why bilateral tourism is extremely relevant and there is room for collaboration beyond that as well,� he said.

36

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NEWS

VIRGIN ATLANTIC BECOMES FIRST AIRLINE TO OFFER ACCESSIBLE ENTERTAINMENT FOR CUSTOMERS WITH SIGHT LOSS Virgin Atlantic has announced a global airline first, as it launches a fully accessible inflight entertainment system for customers with sight loss.

The technology will be offered throughout its fleet serving destinations across North America, the Caribbean, Africa, China, India and the Middle East.

Televisions in the sky have come a long way since the days of a single TV at the front of the cabin with seat back touch screen entertainment now commonplace across the industry.

However, while this is a benefit for many, touch screens can create a bar-

rier for customers with limited visibility due to the challenge of navigating the system. Now, Virgin Atlantic is pioneering new technology, which will

enable visually impaired customers to enjoy the full range of on-board entertainment via specially adapted iPads.

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

37

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APPOINTMENT 2017

APPOINTMENTS OF THE YEAR 2017 Year 2017 saw some high-profile appointments in Indian's travel and tourism industry and in the government. A new tourism minister as well as a new railway minister took charge in September this year in a big cabinet reshuffle. There are many other key movements in the travel & tourism industry. We have listed here top appointments of the Year 2017.

Piyush Goyal Railway Minister In the big cabinet

had appointed many new ministers, changed the portfolios of many

reshuffle that Prime Min-

and some junior-rank

ister Narendra Modi

ministers were elevated

carried out in the month

to cabinet rank. A retired

of September, Piyush

1979-batch IAS officer of

Goyal was appointed the

Kerala cadre and a mem-

new Railway Minister.

ber of the BJP's National

He replaced Suresh

Executive, Alphons Kan-

Prabhu, who was made

nanthanam replaced Dr.

new Minister of Industry and Commerce. Prior to be-

Mahesh Sharma, who continues to be Minister of

coming Railway Minister, Goyal was the Minister of

State (Independent charge) for Culture. Kannan-

State (Independent Charge) for Power, Coal, New and

thanam, who belongs to Kerala came into the lime-

Renewable Energy. As the Power Minister, Goyal in-

light in the 1990s for his encroachment-clearing

troduced many structural reforms in the power sec-

drive. He was then the commissioner of the Delhi De-

tor, improving the supply of power quite significantly

velopment Authority. Kannanthanam was also made

in the country. He brought reforms and transparency

the Minister of State for Electronics and Information

in the coal sector. Goyal continues to head the Coal

Technology.

Ministry. He is a BJP Member of Parliament (Rajya

A well-known investment banker, and a Chartered

Ashwani Lohani, Chairman, Railway Board

Accountant, Goyal is a law graduate. Goyal had been

The government of India

a member of the Standing Committee on Finance and

appointed Ashwani Lo-

the Consultative Committee for the Ministry of De-

hani as Chairman of

fence.

Railway Board, who re-

Sabha) from the state of Maharashtra. He was earlier the National Treasurer of the ruling party.

placed A.K. Mittal. Prior

Alphons Kannanthanam Minister of State (I/C) for Tourism

to becoming the Chair-

Alphons Kannanthanam took over as the new Union

was Chairman and Managing Director of Air India.

Minister of State (I/C) for Tourism in September. In

Lohani is an officer from the 1980 batch of the Indian

the big reshuffle of his Council of Ministers in the

Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers (IRSME).

month of September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi

38

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

man of the Board, Lohani

December 2017--Final_Layout 1 12/5/2017 9:29 PM Page 39

APPOINTMENT 2017

Pradeep Singh Kharola Chairman, Air India

local companies and small and medium enterprises

Senior IAS officer of the

experience. Most recently, he was Chief Operating

Karnataka cadre

Officer of TUI India. Prior to that he spent seven years

Pradeep Singh Kharola

based in Tokyo, Japan as a Regional General Man-

has been appointed as

ager at British Airways. He has also held a number of

the new Chairman and

other business development and management roles

Managing Director

at British Airways based in India, the UAE, Hong

(CMD) of Air India. He

Kong and China.

(SMEs).

Sinha has more than 20 years of experience in the travel industry, including considerable international

will succeed Rajiv Bansal — Additional Secretary and Natural Gas — who was given additional charge of

Sandeep Dwivedi COO, ITQ

the post of CMD of Air India in August this year, after

InterGlobe Technology

Ashwani Lohani moved to the Railway Board as its

Quotient (ITQ), a leading

chairman.

travel commerce com-

Financial Advisor in the Ministry of Petroleum and

Kharola is currently serving as Managing Director of

pany and an official dis-

Bangalore Metro Rail Corp. Ltd. The government has

tributor of Travelport in

not announced when Kharola will take over from

six markets of Asia Pa-

Bansal, who has been given an extension for another

cific region including

three months just recently. A PhD Holder in public

India, appointed

transport system from IIT, Delhi, Kharola had earlier

Sandeep Dwivedi as its Chief Operating Officer (COO)

been Principal Secretary to the CM of Karnataka in

to lead overall responsibility of ITQ’s growing opera-

2013.

tions including strategic business development and implementing growth strategies. He focuses on con-

Vishal Sinha CEO, CWT, India Carlson Wagonlit

tinuing to build a strong, customer-focused organization, while increasing efficiency across all aspects of operations. His new responsibilities include looking

Travel (CWT) has ap-

after E-commerce/ Innovation, Products and Network

pointed Vishal Sinha as

& IT infrastructure, in addition to Relationship Man-

its Chief Executive Offi-

agement, Marketing, Distribution, Business Excel-

cer for CWT India. He is

lence, Business Planning & Strategy verticals.

based in CWT India’s

Prior to his elevation, Sandeep was severing as

head office in Gurgaon.

Chief Commercial Officer at ITQ and he has demon-

Sinha also becomes a

strated spectacular leadership competency with com-

member of CWT’s Asia Pacific leadership team. He

pany’s growth in the market. With over 25 years in

took over from Geeta Jain, who moved into a new

executive management and business supervisory

global role at CWT as Vice President of Strategic Pro-

roles, he spearheads commercial strategy and busi-

gram. Sinha now leads CWT India’s team of over 1,

ness growth in the organization. He has had a suc-

200 people across nine offices that deliver an excep-

cessful track record for providing strong corporate

tional customer experience to more than 180 corpo-

leadership, management and direction with a keen

rate clients in India. He is also being responsible for

understanding of applying tactical business and

growing CWT’s business in India, particularly with

technological strategies.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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DIPLOMAT CORNER

Macedonia: a country blessed with fascinating nature and history Steeped in the long-fascinating history and blessed with the bounties of the nature, Macedonia is an incredibly beautiful tourist destination. A landlocked country located in the Balkan peninsula in Southeast Europe, Macedonia is emerging a favorite tourist destination. Government of Macedonia is proactively developing infrastructure to promote tourism in the country. In an exclusive interview with TnH magazine, H.E. Dr. Toni Atanasovski, Ambassador of the Republic of Macedonia, talks about the tourism potential of his country and steps to promote Macedonia as a tourist destination.

40

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DIPLOMAT CORNER v B PREM KUMAR

Q of the Republic of Macedonia.

Y

Please tell us about tourism potential

A country enormously rich in nature, Macedonia has huge potential for tourism. Our country has immense potential for tourism such as ecotourism, archeological, cultural and rural tourism. The variety of natural and cultural attractions present in the country makes us a very attractive tourism destination. We have plenty of mountains, rivers, lakes, valleys, etc. Macedonia has three national parks, Ohrid lake is the oldest and the largest lake of the country. It has been listed as a UNESCO site. Our countryside is incredibly beautiful. Tourism infrastructure has also improved in our country. Our heritage is very old and diverse. You will find every kind of monuments in our country. So there is huge

Q India and the Republic of Macedonia?

potential of archeological tourism.

How is the connectivity between flight between Macedonia and India, the two

I understand that to promote a destination,

countries are well-connected through major

you need to have good connectivity; the des-

capitals of Europe such as London, Munich,

tination should be well-connected and easily

Zurich, Istanbul, Vienna etc, and also with

accessible. On this front, Macedonia is well-

capitals such as Dubai and Doha. You can go

connected to every major region of the world

to Istanbul from India non-stop by Turkish

including India. Although, there is no direct

airlines and from there you can fly to Skopje.

You can also go from Delhi to Doha by Qatar Airways and then from Doha to Macedonia.

"We are creating awareness about our destination in the overseas markets. A considerable number of Europeans are travelling to Macedonia. The number of people visiting Macedonia is growing every year. We are maintaining a steady annual growth of 10%. Now we have also developed five-star hotels. We have professional tourist guides and inbound tour operators to assist and serve tourists who want to come to Macedonia.‰

Other option is to fly from Delhi to Vienna by Air India and then to Skopje. Indians can also go to Macedonia via Dubai. so there are many

Q taking to promote tourism? options to go to Macedonia.

What are the steps the government is

We are creating awareness about our destination in the overseas markets. A considerable number of Europeans are travelling to

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

41

December 2017--Final_Layout 1 12/5/2017 9:29 PM Page 42

DIPLOMAT CORNER

Q in Macedonia?

What are the activities tourists can do

There are a lot of things to do in Macedonia. In Macedonia you can you visit archeological sites, enjoy food and wine, stay in attractive and affordable five star hotels. Macedonia is also famous for its wines. We have 30 plus wineries.

We have some of the finest wines and wineries in the world. Indians also like wines so they would enjoy their stay in Macedonia. Macedonia is located somewhere between the east and the west so our culture has been influenced by the both parts of the world. There are lots of options for outdoor activities, you can do hiking, adventure activities, shopping, par-

Q donia?

ticipating in festivals and enjoying nightlife.

Macedonia. The number of people visiting Macedonia is growing every year. We are maintaining a steady annual growth of 10%.

Food is not a problem in Macedonia for Indians.

Now we have also developed five-star hotels.

Considering that a lot of Indian people are veg-

We have professional tourist guides and in-

etarian, they will find foods in Macedonia very

bound tour operators to assist and serve tourists

attractive. We have lots of options for vegetar-

who want to come to Macedonia. These days a

ian foods. As in India, we also use lots of spices

lot of tourists from Scandinavian countries are

in making foods. Other good aspect of our foods

coming to Macedonia by charted flights. We

is that they are very healthy. Our farmers pro-

are working in the best possible way to pro-

duce

mote Macedonia.

healthy as they use very little pesticides.

We will bring delegations of tour operators from Macedonia to India to interact with Indian tour operators; similarly, Indian tour operators

vegetables and

fruits that are very

is the visa process for Indians?

Q How It is very easy to get Macedonian visa. We

will also be taken to Macedonia to interact with

have exempted foreign visitors who have Cana-

the Macedonian tour operators. In this way,

dian, UK, US and Schengen Visa, from the re-

tourism exchange between the two countries

quirement of having the Macedonian visa to

can be improved. We will participate in trade

visit our country.

fairs like SATTE in Delhi and Mumbai. As of now not a significant number of Indians are travelling to Macedonia. Most of Indians going

42

What about foods for Indians in Mace-

kind of similarity do you see beQ What tween India and Macedonia?

to Macedonia are business travelers. We en-

An interesting link between India and Macedo-

courage Indians to visit Macedonia as part of

nia is the saint Mother Teresa, who was born

their travel to the region.

in 1910 in Skopje, the capital of Macedonia,

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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DIPLOMAT CORNER then part of the Kosovo Vilayet of the Ottoman Empire. She lived in Macedonia for 18 years before moving to Ireland and then to India. Indians will find interesting to visit the Mother Teresa Memorial House built in the memory of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mother Teresa, which is located in Skopje.

Just like Indians, Macedonians are awesome people. They are very warm, welcoming, sociable and caring. Indians and Macedonians share many family values. They enjoy togetherness and sharing. There are similarities between Indian and Macedonian cuisines. Like Indian foods, Macedonian food is also great with enjoyable dishes for vegetarian prefer-

Q tourists?

ence of taste.

How affordable is Macedonia for

ESCO World Heritage Site and the country's most popular tourist destination, is located in

Macedonia is incredibly affordable country for

the southwestern part of the country on the

tourists. Whether it is food, accommodation,

eastern shore of the incredibly beautiful Lake

drinks, transportation, everything is reason-

Ohrid. Macedonian has 3 national parks and

ably priced. Even the budget travelers can af-

33 natural reserves. Mavrovo is the largest na-

ford to travel to Macedonia. As Macedonia is

tional park in the country; Mavrovo Lake is lo-

a small country, you can visit Macedonia as

cated inside the Mavrovo park. Pelister and

part of multi-countries tour comprising many

GaliÄ?ica

neighboring countries such as Serbia and Al-

GaliÄ?ica is the second largest national park in

bania.

the country that offers terrific views of Lake

are the other two national parks.

Ohrid.

MACEDONIA IN BRIEF

Skopje, the capital and the largest city of Macedonia, is a treasure trove of archaeologi-

A landlocked country located in the Balkan

cal sites. The city has plenty of monuments,

Peninsula in Southeast Europe, Macedonia be-

statues and museums. The capital city also

came independent from the former Yugoslavia

acts as a venue of many cultural extravagan-

in 1991. Surrounded by countries such as

zas. Bitola is Macedonia's second largest city.

Greece, Serbia, Bulgaria, Albania and Kosovo.

Heraclea Lyncestis, one of Macedonia's largest

Macedonia boasts of its natural beauties that

archaeological sites, is located in Bitola. Bitola

include beautiful lakes, ubiquitous mountains,

has many neo-classical buildings, Ottoman

valleys and rivers.

buildings and monuments and old churches.

Macedonia has a long and rich history dat-

The town is also a shopping destination.

ing back millennia. The city of Ohrid, a UN-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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FESTIVAL CORNER

Popular festivals around the world to see in the next month January 27 – February 13, 2017 Location: Venice, Italy

Carnevale di Venezia The Carnevale di Venezia (Carnival of Venice) is an annual festival held in Venice, Italy. Wander Venice’s waterways and alleyways concealed behind a Bauta, Moretta, Volto, or with other classic masks it is a pre-Lenten celebration. It is the one of the most elegant Carnivals in the world. Socialites come out and play, disguised in 18th-century costumes, in a spectacle that transports visitors to an age of opulence. Venice Carnival is unapologetically upscale and thrives on it. The elaborate Carnival balls are among the world's most elite parties and come with a high price tag, but the most alluring aspect of this festival is just wandering the labyrinthine island city of historic canals and alleyways filled with costumed revelers and soaking up the one-of-a-kind ambiance.

January 27, 2018 Location: Nara, Japan

Wakakusa Yamayaki Mount Wakakusa, also known as Mount Mikasa is a 342-metre-high mountain located in Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan to the east of Nara Park. On the fourth Saturday of each January, the dead grass of Mount Wakakusa is burned in an annual festival known as Yamayaki, which is "mountain roast" or "prescribed burn". The tradition supposedly originated from a boundary dispute between two temples, Tōdai-ji and Kōfuku-ji in 1760. As the mediations failed, the entire mountain was set ablaze. Other explanations suggest the extermination of wild boars or pests as a result. The festival today begins with a ceremonial igniting by members of both temples, followed by a fireworks display. In short, peaceful park, Buddhist temples and Shinto shrine along with lots of Asia tropes exploded by the Wakakusa Yamayaki.

January 5 - February 28, 2018 Location: Harbin, Heilongjiang, China

Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival The Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival (or Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival) is an annual winter festival that takes place with a theme in Harbin, China. The festival includes the world's biggest ice sculptures. While ice sculptures are erected throughout the city, the two main exhibition areas are Sun Island - a recreational area on the opposite side of the Songhua River from the city, which features an expo of enormous snow sculptures and, Ice and Snow World - an area open at night which features illuminated full size buildings made from blocks of 2–3' thick ice taken directly from the Songhua River. Winter activities during the festival include Yabuli alpine skiing, winter-swimming in the Songhua River, and the ice-lantern exhibition in Zhaolin Garden.

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FESTIVAL CORNER Beginning of the year, January brings a lot of festivity with many colorful festival / carnivals and music festivals for a passionate traveller. There are many festivals around the world like, Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival (Harbin, China) to Rainbow Serpent Festival (Victoria, Australia). Here are some of the best festivals / carnivals which you must look for!

January 26 - February 11, 2018 Location: Quebec City, Canada

Quebec Winter Carnival The Quebec Winter Carnival or the Carnaval de Québec is a festival held in Quebec City. After being held on and off since 1894, the Carnaval de Québec has been held uninterruptedly since 1955. That year Bonhomme, the mascot of the festival, made his first appearance. Up to one million people attended the Carnaval de Québec in 2006 making it one of the largest winter festivals in the world. The most famous attractions of this winter festival are the night-time and daytime parades led by mascot Bonhomme Carnaval. The parades wind through the upper city, decorated for the occasion with lights and ice sculptures. Snow sculptures, winter sports, parades and traditional Québec activities like dogsled and canoe races are beloved highlights of the largest winter carnival in the world.

January 26-29, 2018 Location: Lexton, Victoria, Australia

Rainbow Serpent Festival The Rainbow Serpent Festival has come a long way since it started in 1998, from a small gathering in a secluded clearing to an internationally recognized festival. The festival has become an institution to many of its loyal followers. Each long weekend during the Australia Day national holiday, the small town of Lexton in regional Victoria swells from its sleepy population of around 150 to over 10,000 as festival-goers from around the world arrive for the annual Rainbow Serpent Festival. The festival is mainly known for Psychedelic trance and Minimal Techno music, but also features other genres of electronic music and non electronic music. The festival also has many art installations, workshops and other attractions. It is an extremely important creation figure in aboriginal beliefs and mythology.

January 30, 2018 Location: Lerwick, Scotland

Up Helly Aa Up Helly Aa refers to any of a variety of fire festivals held annually in Shetland, in Scotland, in the middle of winter to mark the end of the Yule season. The festival involves a procession of up to a thousand guizers in Lerwick in a variety of themed costumes. The Shetlands, Scotland’s northernmost islands, have long been an ideal target for Vikings, but today their only invaders are festival-goers. The last Tuesday of every January, Lerwick, the islands’ capital, is overtaken by costumed warriors bearing torches, which they use to set a traditional longboat aflame. This winter festival brings the heat - literally. Europe’s largest fire festival is about more than just flames. It’s a cultural celebration of Nordic heritage and ritual.

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BITE CORNER

Fine-dining in Social Kitchen According to Suman Chakraborty, Executive Chef, Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport, “Curry and tandoor dishes form the heart and soul of our restaurant.

Being the premier property of Holiday Inn in Kolkata, we wish to boost Bengali cuisine in the main course at our food outlet. Our curry preparations are mostly the North Indian delights from the states of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh or the local Bengali treats. Offering the right choice of dishes in the menu form the highpoints of our restaurant. We present delights that foodies can

v B SWAATI CHAUDHURY Y

I

f you are on a business trip to Kolkata

and would prefer to stay in the vicinity of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, here’s a five-star haunt for you: Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport that has an all-day dining food outlet well-known as Social Kitchen.

Snuggled on Biswa Bangla Road in the proximity of City Centre 2 at Rajarhat, Social Kitchen with its glitzy

interiors is a name to reckon with for those who love to savour South-East Asian, Western and Indian delicacies.

If you’re heading to Social Kitchen for buffet lunch, there are lip-smacking delights from SouthEast Asian destinations of Thailand, Malaysia, Korea, China, Japan and Myanmar. The restaurant has a live pizza, pasta and starter counters. The main menu is a blend of North Indian, Chinese and Bengali cuisine. While the dessert section is quite elaborate and there is a bewildering variety of nine delicacies.

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savour and relish and we do not believe in displaying a wide variety of preparations in order to entice customers. Moreover, the use of local and

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BITE CORNER

mixed with two kinds of chutneys- sweet chilly chutney and pine apple chutney. Non-vegetarians can try the Chinese platter- butter chilly garlic prawn that is heavy-on-the-stomach.

Before rounding off the meal, I moved to the dessert counter and was taken aback with surprise to find an astounding array of sweet delights. I skipped off gulab jamun and mishti dahi (popular fresh ingredients makes us stand out from others.

Bengali sweet curd made by reduction of milk and

Our buffet breakfast has a live local herbal counter,

sugar) and for the first time savoured coconut ras-

the only one-of-a-kind in the city. We present 12

gulla (prepared from cottage cheese and semolina

kinds of salads including 12 vegetarian and 4 non-

cooked in light sugar syrup) and it was indeed a

vegetarian ones in buffet lunch.”

true delight. I sampled other pastry delights in-

The food outlet’s vegetarian specialities are Dal

cluding the delicious coffee chocolate pastry, pine

Makhni and Makai Methi Seekh in the a la carte

apple soufflé, mango gateaux, black currant

section. For non-vegetarians, there are tantalizing

gateaux, financier- a small French almond cake,

recipes like Caesar salad (made of lettuce, crou-

Mississippi mud cake slice and passion fruit panna

tons, bacon, and parmesan tossed with anchovies

cottah comprising Italian cooked cream. The fin-

dressing, Australian lamb chops and Norwegian

ancier was nothing unusual but a simple form of

smoked salmon.

cake but mango gateaux and pine apple soufflé on

A buffet lunch for a single person comes at a

offer deserve mention.

taxes.

Verdict: The posh dining outlet is for the much-

Chakraborty said, “We have around 40 per cent

travelled class of gourmet lovers who would try all

corporate guests, 30 per cent friends and family-

delights in small quantities. This is certainly the

goers and 20 per cent travellers who halt in our

food outlet that serves a blend of North Indian,

hotel opt for dining at our restaurant.”

South Indian and Bengali delights in buffet lunch

price

pinch

of

Rs

999

inclusive

of

I had a chance to relish the culinary extrava-

apart from South-East Asian and Western cuisine.

ganza at the restaurant’s buffet lunch and began

For first-timers in Kolkata preferring luxury dining,

with the starter -honey chilly baby corn. Since

one gets to know about the Bengali dishes at So-

there a number of delicacies on offer, I decided to

cial Kitchen. The salad counter offers a wide se-

taste some of the dishes. I preferred to have pasta

lection and so does the dessert section that is a mix

salad, raw papaya salad or som tam (Thai delight)

of Bengali and Continental delights.

Khimchi or Korean salad, dahi vada and curd rice that had more of sprinkling of mustard seeds making a bitter taste.

I began the main course with Hakka noodles and vegetable biryani and Sukto (a Bengali cuisine comprising mixed vegetables cooked well with coconut gravy and local spices). Next, I proceeded towards other delights like Dal Palak, the spicy Aloo Posta with potatoes tempered with poppy seeds and Indian spices that had low salt content. I relished Gobhi Matar and a bit of Paneer Lababdar

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | DECEMBER 2017

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MOVING ON

Nandan Jha COO, Easy Trip Planners Easy Trip Planners Pvt. Ltd. (EaseMyTrip.com) has appointed Nandan Jha as the acting COO of EaseMyTrip.com, effective from November 6, 2017. Previously, he was working with News World India as COO. He possesses strong interpersonal skills and social commitments. Jha has been a veteran in the media and hospitality industry for last 12 years and his works and contributions has set the benchmark in both the industries.

Winner of National Bravery Award and Jeevan Raksha Padak awards he was also awarded by former Prime Minister of India -I.K Gujaral and former President of India – K.R. Narayanan. He took the page of News World India to the next height while working as a Chief Operation Officer. His works in Sahara India Pariwar as Corporate Consultant and JSPL is proudly commendable. On being appointed as COO of EaseMyTrip, he will concentrate on expanding EaseMyTrip operations and enhancing client experience in Indian and international markets. He will be using his past experiences to make EaseMyTrip no. 1 travel conglomerate of India.

Roshan Rajpal Hotel Manager, Grand Hyatt Mumbai Grand Hyatt Mumbai has announced the appointment of Roshan Rajpal as Hotel Manager for the multidimensional lifestyle complex in the heart of Mumbai. With over 20 years of experience, Roshan brings her operations, sales & marketing & business development acumen as well as the zeal to create moments of more for not just for our guests but also our associates.

Roshan, a graduate in Humanities has worked across global hospitality brands like Crowne Plaza, Carlson Rezidor and Accor in various challenging roles and responsibilities. Her last assignment was as Hotel Manager at Ibis Bengaluru before Grand Hyatt Mumbai. An extrovert by nature, she enjoys connecting & meeting with people. A fitness enthusiast & animal lover, Roshan loves the hustle & bustle associated with the life of a Hotelier & is excited to live the Grand life at Grand Hyatt Mumbai.

Mansi Mehta Arora Director of Sales in India for Hilton Hilton, leading global hospitality company has announced the appointment of Mansi Mehta Arora as Director of Sales, India, who will be based in Delhi. She is responsible for managing the above hotel sales teams and reporting to Pariva Rustagi, Regional Director of Sales – India.

Mansi is also expected to build and maintain relationships with key business partners, including travel agents, wedding planners, as well as conference and event organisers.

She will be involved in promoting the hotels and resorts that are managed by Hilton in India. She comes with a strong experience in the hospitality industry spanning over 16 years where she has worked with global brands, managing pre-opening of hotels, unit properties and domestic and outbound sales. She also has a rich understanding of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events) and Travel Trade segments.

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MOVING ON

Hanneli Slabber Regional General Manager Asia, Australasia and Middle East, South African Tourism South African Tourism has appointed Hanneli Slabber to the new position which is intended to bring better synergies to South African Tourism’s operations in the region. Hanneli Slabber has held the reins at South African Tourism’s India office for the past seven years and will continue to guide and influence its operations going ahead. During her tenure at the India office, she has grown to love and understand India. She has developed effective and long-lasting ties with media houses, travel trade, airlines and other authority figures in the travel industry. She has been instrumental in helping the South African travel industry understand India better, encouraging them constantly that it will be worth it to tailor not just for India but for the tastes and demands of people various regions/ states of India. Her experience in taking a destination from one-among-many to a mustsee safari and adventure hotspot with multi-segment appeal is expected to help South Africa make waves in the Middle East and South East Asia.

Vinay Raina General Manager, The Promenade & Le Dupleix, Pondicherry Sarovar Hotels & Resorts announces the appointment of Vijay Raina as General Manager of The Promenade and Le Dupleix, Pondicherry. A highly motivated individual and a passionate hotelier, He brings with him over 13 years of operational excellence and key deliverables across cross cultural teams.

Prior to joining Sarovar Hotels & Resorts, Vinay had worked with The Trident Jaipur, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels and The Claridges. In his last assignment, Vinay was working at Trident, Jaipur as the Food and Beverage Services Manager. Vinay’s hobbies include photography and playing a guitar.

Arohi Tambe Director of Marketing, The InterContinental, Chennai Mahabalipuram Resorts InterContinental, Chennai Mahabalipuram Resorts announces the appointment of Arohi Tambe as the Director of Marketing. In her new role, she will be responsible for providing marketing leadership and undertaking the innovative marketing activations at the resort.

In her present role she will be responsible for providing marketing leadership and undertaking the innovative marketing activations at the property. With almost a decade’s experience with hospitality brands, Arohi’s marketing and communications career is a result of her involuntary ability to connect with people.

Not sitting on her laurels makes Arohi Tambe an inspiring team leader; one who is constantly raising the bar. With almost a decade’s experience with hospitality brands, Arohi’s marketing and communications career is a result of her involuntary ability to connect with people. This deft skill works seamlessly between the brand and the people who wish to use it, as well as those who work tirelessly to take a brand forward.

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EVENT WATCH

S KAL D ELHI M EET Skal Delhi International hosted lunch for its members on 22nd November at Taj Palace Hotel, New Delhi. Besides having sumptuous lunch, the members informally discussed issues of common concerns.

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DL (ND)-11/6167/2017-18-19 | DATE OF POSTING: 5-6 OF MONTH | RNI NO.: DELENG/2010/33723 | DATE OF PUBLISHING: 4 th OF THE MONTH