Travel and Hospitality (TnH) - September 2017

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ISSUE 12 VOLUME VIII 2017 | `50 ISSUE 8 | |VOLUME VII ||SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2017

33rd IATO

33rd IATO Annual Convention

7-10 September 2017, Bhubaneswar

Annual Convention 7-10 September 2017, Bhubaneswar

Odisha A Land of Myriad Marvels

Tips For Solo Women Travellers

Dominican Republic Nature’s Gem

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FROM THE EDITOR

Changing Times!

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

Let's head to Bhubaneswar for The Indian Association of Tour Operators' (IATO) 33rd Annual Convention. As I always say, Conferences provide an excellent environment to network with colleagues, to learn and develop professionally and to be inspired by the latest research and approaches to grow and improve our businesses. They can, however, be prohibitively expensive and exhausting for organisers and attendees. Therefore, it is a must we make the most of the conferences and conventions we attend. To help you benefit from your presence, here is my short list of tasks you must do after attending an event: Follow up with the people you connected with at the convention: Remember, it’s not about how many business cards you collect but about how deep a connection you develop. Reach out to the most promising contacts immediately after the event.

Take action on your learnings: When we attend business sessions we all take little notes of the points that appeal to us. Track and implement what you can put into action and decide what should wait. Also share what you have learned with colleagues so more than one person can utilise your learnings.

Record expenses: The longer you wait to do this, the less likely you’ll remember what all the receipts are for and how much exactly you invested on attendance.

Catch up on emails: While attending a conference it's important to keep track of what is happening back at your office too. Moreover, some connections you make might be prompt to eintroduce themselves. You should reciprocate quickly to keep the momentum going.

This issue’s cover story is on IATO's convention theme: 'Indian Tourism Time to reinvent ourselves' (pg 20). It emerges from the story that no matter the vicissitudes of the travel industry, we continue to push forward, offering an ever-greater wealth of places, products and most importantly experience to attract travellers.

Enjoy this feature and all the others and write to us with your feedback at editorial@tnhindia.com.

Srishti Rai Editor

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CONTENTS 36

26

40 20 24

COVER STORY

NEWS

IATO Convention 2017 'Time to reinvent ourselves'

St. Petersburg appoints Salvia Promoters as its tourism office in India

35

EXOTIC DESTINATION

BITE CORNER

Odisha - a land of myriad marvels

Indulge in Awadhi Cuisine @ DILLI 32, The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, Delhi

36

TRENDS

26 29

New fads in the destination wedding market to watch out for

40

TRAVEL MANTRA Tips for Solo Women Travellers

20

24 29

44

DIPLOMAT CORNER Dominican Republic: a nature’s gem in the caribbean

FESTIVALS AROUND THE WORLD Popular festivals around the world in October

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NEWS

VFS Global acquires visa service provider TT Services VFS Global completed on 22

quality visa services for its client

August 2017, the acquisition of

governments, partners and appli-

visa service provider TT Serv-

cants.

ices (TTS). The transaction en-

Zubin Karkaria, CEO of VFS

ables VFS Global to leverage on

Global Group commented: “TT

core competences and brands

Services has, like VFS Global, ex-

and to further enhance operat-

tended industry experience of

ing performance.

more than 15 years and is a

TT Services is a provider of inte-

trusted service delivery partner for

grated visa processing solutions

its clients. I see a strong fit by TTS

with global presence and a com-

joining VFS Global. This will en-

prehensive portfolio of services.

able us to further enhance and ex-

TT Services is headquartered in

tend our services towards our

the United Kingdom and has a

client governments and visa appli-

strong and long-lasting relation-

cants.”

ship with its client governments

The change of control will have

and with a commercial partner.

no bearing on the business opera-

The company operates 51 applica-

tions of the parties and act as a

tion centres in more than 35

catalyst to improved services and

countries and has 216 employees.

enhanced client and customer sat-

TTS offers a full range of high

isfaction.

On an expansion mode The national carrier of Sri Lanka is determined to consolidate its position in Kolkata and add more weekly flights to connect the city with Colombo.

In an effort to mark its association with Kolkata and offer an impetus to the tourist getaways of the island nation, SriLankan Airlines came up with a cultural extravaganza at The Oberoi Grand in Kolkata sometime on August 10.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Siva Ramachandran, Chief Commercial Officer, Sri Lankan Airlines informed, “In the global age, an increasing number of Indian travellers are planning their tour itineraries to neighbouring destinations and Sri Lanka is a curious choice of

by TNH DESK place to visit.

by TNH DESK

Zubin Karkaria CEO of VFS Global Group

Eros Hotel rings in the re-launch of the Lounge AND Bar 25th August 2017 marked a remark-

ing and juggling by the lady bartender

able day for Eros Hotel, New Delhi,

while curating exotic cocktails for the

Nehru Place, as it re-launched the

guests. But the sizzling tango dance

Lounge AND Bar with great splendor.

performance by a vibrant couple stole

The evening was attended by eminent

the show and made the evening way

guests like Diplomats, industry leaders,

more happening for the attendees.

known mavens and media fraternity.

Those present included HE Cambodia,

Guests were seen having a gala time while enjoying a selection of seemingly

Director of Embassy of South Korea, VP

endless drinks and relishing an exten-

Glatt India, Diplomats of South Africa

sive variety of lip smacking snacks, de-

High Commission, Diplomats from Cote

lectable food menu and a variety of

d'ivoire, Political Diplomat of Singapore

sinful desserts towards the end of the

High Commission, Tanvi Rustagi, Whisky

evening. Guests were delighted to pose

Sommelier at The Whisky Works among

for the camera in an elegant lounge am-

others.

bience and the adjacent outdoors amidst

Major highlights of the evening became the pulsating live music and flar-

serene surroundings overlooking the pool.

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

5

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NEWS

ITQ signs agreement with MakeMyTrip MakeMyTrip, India’s leading online

cess to approximately 400 airlines, includ-

side the significantly differentiated travel

travel agency (OTA) has signed an agree-

ing the merchandised content of over half

content now available on our platform for

ment with Travelport’s distributor for India,

of these carriers such as fares families and

both the domestic and outbound Indian

InterGlobe Technology Quotient (ITQ), for

ancillary products (paid seat assignments,

traveller.”

the use of Travelport’s Travel Commerce

baggage fees, priority boarding, etc). Trav-

Platform. Together with its well-recognized

elport has pioneered the inclusion of Low

Group CEO of MakeMyTrip added, “This is

brands, MakeMyTrip, Goibibo and redBus,

Cost Carriers on its platform for shopping

an exciting time for MakeMyTrip and we

MakeMyTrip receives over 33 Million visits

and booking and uniquely went live with

are delighted to partner with Travelport

via its Desktop & Mobile-web platforms

IndiGo in November 2016, which is now

and ITQ as part of our growth strategy in

and serves over 40 Million Mobile App ac-

India’s largest passenger airline.

the service of the travelling Indian con-

tive users each month.

sumer.”

Under the agreement, MakeMyTrip can

and CEO, commented, “India is a market

expand the use of Travelport’s technology

with enormous growth potential where

said, “MakeMyTrip is a tremendous partner

from the Ibibo Group to MakeMyTrip’s

Travelport, working with our distributor

for us and we are delighted to be building

other primary distribution channels start-

ITQ, has grown in air booking terms by

on the good work we started with Ibibo

ing in the second half of calendar year

14% in the first half of 2017 when the GDS

Group which is now part of the Make-

2017. MakeMyTrip undertook a strategic

air market has grown by 11%. Securing a

MyTrip Group. ITQ’s investment in local

combination with Ibibo Group in January

partnership with the leading online travel

support and infrastructure for the Travel-

2017 and acquired its 100% equity inter-

agency in the market, with a high growth

port platform in the markets in which we

est.

profile and tremendous track record, gives

operate has enabled us to provide the sort

even further impetus to our plans in the

of service and local touch, linked to the

ITQ which operates as its distributor in

country. The fact that MakeMyTrip has

global capabilities of Travelport, to enable

India, Bhutan and Sri Lanka, will make

elected to work with us is a testament to

us to win a customer of this calibre with

available to MakeMyTrip its industry lead-

our investment in leading edge search,

who we look forward to working for many

ing travel content featuring real time ac-

shopping and booking technology along-

years to come.”

Travelport, working in conjunction with

6

Gordon Wilson, Travelport’s President

Deep Kalra, Founder, Chairman and

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

Anil Parashar, President and CEO of ITQ,

by TNH DESK

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NEWS

ITQ appoints Sandeep Dwivedi as its Chief Operating Officer InterGlobe Technology Quotient (ITQ) has announced the appointment of Sandeep Dwivedi as its Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead overall responsibility of ITQ’s growing operations including strategic business development and implementing growth strategies. He will focus on continuing to build a strong, customer-focused organization, while increasing efficiency across all aspects of operations. He will also have the responsibility of E-commerce/ Innovation, Products and Network & IT infrastructure, in addition to Relationship Management, Marketing, Distribution, Business Excellence, Business Planning & Strategy verticals.

Commenting on his acumen Anil Parashar, President and

CEO, ITQ, said, “Sandeep has strong in-depth understanding of the market and possesses an action oriented vision to achieve aggressive business goals and plans. With his ability to develop, coach and lead action-oriented teams, we are surely to reach at greater Sandeep Dwivedi heights. He is an addition to COO, ITQ the executive team and driving business growth strategies -is his foray.”

Having previously led the position as Chief Commercial Officer at ITQ and served in InterGlobe group companies in different capacity, Sandeep has demonstrated spectacular leadership competency with company’s growth in the market.

by TNH DESK

TAT promotes Ladies Golf in Thailand As a part of Lady Golf Challenge project, a joint effort between TAT’s overseas offices and local travel agencies in their respective markets to offer special golf packages to more than 100 lady golfers from around the world. This initiative was organized to promote the ongoing ladies special month in Thailand that is celebrated throughout August 2017, as the month for the Women’s Journey Thailand campaign, a way of commemorating Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s 84th birthday on 12 August. This very special initiative is also to mark the royal benevolence of H. M. the

Crystal Skye joins the Crystal Fleet Crystal AirCruises takes possession of its groundbreaking Boeing 777.

Queen of Thailand, especially in her promotion of the wellbeing for the Thai people and the foundation of arts and crafts.

TAT New Delhi organized a trip for TAT lady golf ambassador Ms Vani Kapoor to Thailand to play golf alongside other lady golfers The Lady Golf Challenge 2017 was or-

Crystal AirCruises welcomed the newest member of its expanding

ganized at Alpine Golf and Sports Club, Pathum Thani.

fleet, Crystal Skye, during an official handover ceremony held at Boe-

Bangkok, where 10 Delhi lady golfers participated in the

ing Field in Seattle, Washington. The exquisitely outfitted Boeing 777-

tournament. The ladies were also treated to some unique

200LR was delivered to Crystal’s CEO and President, Edie Rodriguez

Thai activities and demonstration followed by a Thai Din-

from Greenpoint Technologies. Crystal Skye is the largest privately

ner. Thailand is fast becoming the most popular and a fa-

owned tour jet in the world and is deployed for chartered service, ac-

vorite destination for golf enthusiasts with world class golf

commodating some of the world’s most discriminating groups and

courses in Hua Hin, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Phuket, Khao Yai

travelers. Crystal Skye was christened in Las Vegas on August 12.

and Samui.

by T NH DESK

by T NH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

7

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NEWS

COUNTRY INNS & SUITES BY CARLSONSM ENTERS KOTA, RAJASTHAN

F

irst-ever international hotel brand to enter the city of Kota.

Country Inn & Suites by CarlsonSM made

its debut in Kota, Rajasthan recently. The

Suites by CarlsonSM Kota to our growing

Group. Spread over 45,000 square feet, the

hotel is the first-ever international brand to

portfolio in India. With 557 properties in oper-

hotel offers a host of modern amenities in-

have a presence in the city.

ation and under development globally, Coun-

cluding comfortable beds, free high speed

Strategically located in the heart of the

try Inns & Suites by CarlsonSM is a leader in

Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, minibar, cof-

town, Country Inn & Suites by CarlsonSM

the upper midscale hotel segment. We are

fee and tea making facilities, satellite TV, in-

Kota offers 85 modern rooms and suites. The

glad to partner with Prem Singh Bajor and

room dining and more. For the fitness

hotel is located within proximity to corporate

Priyavrat Singh, to pioneer the first interna-

conscious guests, the hotel offers a suite of

zones and educational service institutes

tional brand in the city and extend its hall-

wellness and recreation facilities such as a

making it the perfect stay for both business

mark, Be Our Guest service philosophy to

rooftop swimming pool, spa, steam room and

and family guests.

our guests,” said Raj Rana, chief executive

health club.

“I am delighted to welcome Country Inn &

officer, South Asia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel

by TNH DESK

IHG signs two new properties in Dubai Business Bay Caters to business and leisure travellers from India InterContinental Hotels Group has an-

line with IHG’s strategy to grow these brands

major draw for business bookers and trav-

in emerging business epicentres.

ellers, Crowne Plaza Dubai Business Bay will

Expected to open in 2019, Crowne Plaza

include a ballroom as well as several meet-

nounced the signing two new properties in

Dubai Business Bay will be situated on the

ing rooms to host conferences and events.

Dubai: Crowne Plaza Dubai Business Bay

Business Bay Canal, near the Burj Khalifa

and InterContinental Residence Suites Dubai

and The Dubai Mall, as well as other devel-

Tourism, India is the number one interna-

Business Bay. Both properties are in partner-

oping commercial and residential communi-

tional tourist source market for Dubai, and in

ship with API Hotels & Resorts, and their lo-

ties.With 290 rooms and suites, the hotel will

2016, 1.8 million Indians arrived in Dubai for

cation in Dubai’s Business Bay area, the

offer guests all day dining options, as well as

leisure and business purposes.

planned business capital of the region, is in

a gym and an outdoor infinity pool. As a

According to statistics shared by Dubai

by TNH DESK

Yatra.com, “India’s most trusted online travel brand” partners with PeopleStrong for its Digital HR Transformation Yatra.com, one of India’s leading online

PAN India.

travel portals has trusted PeopleStrong to dig-

With PeopleStrong’ s true-blue HR SaaS

itize the employee life cycle on a single uni-

technology designed “For HR, By HR”, and

fied cloud platform named PeopleStrong Alt.

powered by India’s first comprehensive HR

PeopleStrong Alt will cover the entire gamut

dance, Recruitment & Onboarding, Capability

Chatbot, Yatra.com would be able to deliver a

of talent management processes from the

Enhancement, Exit and Expense Management

unified experience to its employees, HR teams

core HR information system, Leave & Atten-

for all employees across entities and locations

and business users.

8

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

by T NH DESK

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NEWS

The Oberoi Group commences selection process for its ‘Post Graduate Management Programmes’

T

he Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development – developing the next generation of hoteliers for the Best

Hotel Brand in the World.

The Oberoi Group has commenced the selection process for its two year ‘Post Graduate Management Programme’ at The Oberoi Centre of Learning Development (OCLD). The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development is in its 51st year and the Guest Service programmeis not just a stepping stone to a job in hospitality but a firm foundation of a distinguished career with The Oberoi Group.

The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Devel-

The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development

objective, he established The Oberoi School

on-the-job training. The objective of the pro-

opment launched a new 18-month Sales

of Hotel Management as a corporate institu-

gramme is to develop the next generation of

Management programme last year for gradu-

tion of learning, where young people could

managers who will continue to practice and

ates looking for a long term career in hospi-

be groomed through a combination of aca-

nurture the organisation’s people focused ap-

tality sales.

demic instruction and comprehensive on-the-

proach to achieve the legendary Oberoi serv-

job experience.

ice excellence.

In 1966, when he established the The Oberoi School of Hotel Management

Today, the Management Programme at

P.R.S. Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The

(OSHM) or The Oberoi Centre of Learning

The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Develop-

Oberoi Group has always maintained that

and Development (OCLD) as it is now

ment is considered amongst the best in Asia

The Oberoi Group’s biggest asset is its peo-

known, Rai Bahadur M.S. Oberoi, Founder

and is a benchmark for excellence within the

ple. It is their efforts and passion that has re-

Chairman, The Oberoi Group, recognised

hospitality industry. The programme is de-

sulted in Oberoi Hotels & Resorts being

that the key to his philosophy of hotel keep-

signed to provide an opportunity to associ-

voted one of the World’s Best Hotel Brand by

ing would be carefully selected and groomed

ates to grow personally and professionally.

Travel + Leisure, World’s Best Awards, 2017,

managers who shared his obsession for

Associates are groomed through a combina-

for the third year in a row.

guest satisfaction. In order to achieve this

tion of academic study and comprehensive

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

9

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NEWS

Alphons Kannanthanam appointed as the new Minister of State (I/C) for Tourism In the big reshuffle of his Council of Ministers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appointed many new ministers, changed the portfolios of many ministers and some of the ministers have been promoted to cabinet rank. A retired 1979-batch IAS officer of Kerala cadre and a member of the BJP's National Executive, Alphons Kannanthanam has been appointed the new Minister of State (Independent charge) for Tourism, replacing Dr. Mahesh Sharma, who will continue to be Minister of State (Independent charge) for

VITS luxury hotel announces the launch of ‘VITS Devbhumi in Dwarka’ VITS Hotel Worldwide have

Gujarat.

Culture. Kannanthanam, who belongs to Kerala came into

added another landmark in

the limelight in the 1990s for his encroachment-clearing

Dwarka, with launch of Hotel

Kamat, Managing Director¸ VITS

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

VITS Devbhumi, expediently lo-

Luxury Business Hotels says,

ment Authority. Kannanthanam has been also appointed as

cated to the prominent landmarks

“We delighted to announce the

the Minister of State for Electronics and Information Tech-

of Dwarkadish temple, of Dwarka

launch of VITS Devbhumi

nology. As he is not the member of any house of the Parlia-

Devbhumi district of Gujarat.

Dwarka. This is our third property

ment, he will have to get elected to either house of the

Dwarka is often identified with the

in Gujarat and we are extremely

Parliament within six months as required by the Constitu-

Dwarka Kingdom, the ancient

upbeat on the exponential growth

tion.

kingdom of Krishna, and is be-

prospect in the region”.

by TNH DESK

Announcing the launch, Vikram

lieved to have been first capital of

JET AIRWAYS TO OFFER UNIQUE STAY EXPERIENCES WITH AIRBNB

by TNH DESK

around the world.

To announce this exciting agreement, Jet Airways is running a contest on its website www.jetairways.com, where 5 lucky winners

Taking another industry-first initiative, Jet

The partnership will not only offer a strong

have a chance to win free couple flight tick-

Airways, announced a partnership with

and differentiated value to Jet Airways’

Airbnb. The partnership will allow Jet Airways

guests, but also give momentum to the

coupon worth `35,000/- from Airbnb*. To be

to offer a wide spectrum of rapidly growing,

growth of Airbnb’s footprint in the Indian mar-

eligible for the contest, all that guests in India

global hospitality choices to its guests from

ket by establishing a deeper connect with the

need to do is to book a Jet Airways flight to

India, strengthening its portfolio of choices for

new-age Indian traveller, who is increasingly

any of the 64 destinations on its network be-

stay that the carrier currently offers its

seeking unique and interesting experiences

tween 23rd August and 01st September,

guests.

while travelling both in India as well as

2017.

10

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

ets from Jet Airways together with a stay

by TNH DESK

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NEWS

Radisson Blu Faridabad: an ideal MICE destination in the city of Faridabad Radisson Blu Faridabad is a newly opened

clude an upscale gym, spa and swimming

five-star deluxe property in the city of Farid-

pool and a well-informed concierge service.

abad, which is one of the largest business

Radisson Blu Faridabad is an ideal venue for

and industrial hubs in the NCR and is home

organizing management workshops, train-

to an array of corporate sites and tourist

ing sessions, conferences, cocktail dinners

destinations.

and other corporate functions.

The first five-star deluxe property of

by TNH DESK

Faridabad, Radisson Blu is an upscale Business Hotel. It is a perfect place for leisure travellers as well on their way while they

Executive Room

travel to Agra or the adjacent tourist destinations. The hotel boasts one of the largest

functions, and customized dining and cater-

banquet and convention venues in the city

ing packages add a touch of ease to any

center with facilities capable of accommo-

business meeting.

dating up to 1,100 guests. State-of-the-art

Situated in a thriving industrial district

audiovisual equipment, convention facilities,

just outside the capital city of New Delhi,

elegant banquet and free high-speed Inter-

Radisson Blu Faridabad offers a convenient

net enhance the productivity of corporate

location with five-star amenities that in-

SriLankan Airlines hosted an evening of cultural extravaganza in Kolkata Celebrating its months of association with ‘City of Joy’, SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier of Sri Lanka, hosted an evening of cultural rendezvous

Restaurant

Star Cruises announces SuperStar Libra’s New Triple Homeports in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Phuket from September

for its patrons & GSA’s present in Kolkata & West Bengal. The cultural event

Taps Kuala Lumpur’s

was held on Thursday, 10th August at The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata and was

growing role as top re-

attended by more than 200 guests.

gional air hub with fly-

SriLankan Airlines started operations between Kolkata & Colombo last

cruise options, boosting

year which has further strengthened the connectivity between two cities.

Southeast Asia’s cruise

Ever since the services began, SriLankan Airlines received tremendous

industry and providing

support from the GSA’s & travel community in Kolkata. The evening was a

more

celebration to acknowledge their support, strengthen the relationship and

guests in the region.

bring Sri Lanka closer to its patrons in Kolkata.

flexibility

for

Star Cruises announced SuperStar Libra’s latest deployment

The evening commenced with the welcome dance by the SriLankan

from 3 September onwards with triple homeports in Kuala

dancers and the lighting of the traditional lamp by the guest of honour &

Lumpur via Port Klang and Penang in Malaysia, as well as in

dignitaries which included CCO - Siva Ramachandran, Area Manager

Phuket, Thailand, with two cruises per week, including the 3-

Kolkata – Lalith Peiris, Manager Marketing - Pradeep Durairaj, Country

nights Kuala Lumpur (via Port Klang) / Phuket / Penang cruise

Manager – Chinthaka Weerasinghe and Chairman of STIC Travels – Sub-

or the 4-nights Kuala Lumpur (via Port Klang) / Langkawi /

hash Goyal.

Phuket / Penang cruise. With the introduction of Star Cruises’

The lamp lighting was followed by welcome speech by Lalith Peiris, Area

multiple homeports and fly-cruise options, guests in Southeast

Manager – Kolkata for SriLankan Airlines where he thanked the GSA’s &

Asia as well as the region will now have more flexibility and easy

guests for attending the evening. This was followed by another creative per-

access to take a cruise with SuperStar Libra from any of these

formance by SriLankan dance troupe where they showcased the beauty &

three well-connected key cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, which

rich culture of Sri Lanka with a stimulating dance.

is now a major aviation hub in Asia.

by TNH DESK

by T NH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

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NEWS

Boeing delivers first 737 MAX 8 to flydubai

Dream Cruises unveils Asia's first all - inclusive Luxury Cruise concept for Dream Palace Suites New first-class experience lavishes guests with a unique array of privileges and services.

Dream Cruises unveiled a new luxury experience for guests of its prestigious Dream Palace Suite and Garden Penthouses on board Genting Dream and its soon-to-arrive twin sister ship World Dream. Designed for guests who prefer the finer things in life, this unique concept sets a new benchmark in Asia’s luxury cruise industry with an unparalleled range of first-class privileges and personalized services both onboard and in-room, as well as on land.

Dream Palace is a class of its own, an elegantly regal “ship-within-aship” enclave with 142 suites and private VIP facilities including its own swimming pool, spa, gym and dining venues. The luxurious essence of

All-Boeing carrier is first in Middle East to operate Boe-

Dream Palace is embodied by the meticulous personalized services of its renowned team of Dream Butlers, chosen for their genuine person-

ing’s newest single-aisle airplane.

Boeing and flydubai celebrated the delivery of the airline’s first 737 MAX 8, making the Middle East carrier the first in the

alities, language skills and renowned for their gracious service and unparalleled expertise.

by T NH DESK

region to operate Boeing’s newest single-aisle airplane. Today’s delivery is the first of 76 737 MAX airplanes the airline will be adding to their all-Boeing fleet of Next-Generation 737s.

“We are delighted to receive our first Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from our order made at the Dubai Airshow in 2013,” said Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer, flydubai. “This marked

Frankfurt is the ideal destination for a sustainable stay and Green Mobility

the largest single-aisle Boeing aircraft order placed in the Middle East. With this new chapter, we are looking forward to continuing our work with Boeing as we benefit from increased efficiency and are able to offer an enhanced customer experience.” flydubai currently operates a fleet of 58 Next-Generation 737800s and has built a network of more than 95 destinations in 44 countries, from Russia in the north, Czech Republic in the west, Thailand in the east and Tanzania in the south. “flydubai’s growth in just nine years has been remarkable and Boeing is honored to have been part of this journey,” said Boe-

Are you a fan of eco-travel and like to get around town on your

ing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Kevin McAllister.

own steam? Is climate-friendly accommodation is something you

“This delivery marks another significant milestone in our part-

like to choose over lavish hotels? Then you’ve come to the right

nership. We are confident that the market-leading efficiency

place! Frankfurt is the ideal destination for a sustainable stay.

and reliability of the 737 MAX will play a key role in flydubai’s continued success and complement its current Boeing fleet.”

The Frankfurt Main Train Station ranks amongst Germany’s busiest railway stations, with regular rail services bringing travellers from Stuttgart

The 737 MAX family has been designed to offer customers ex-

(1 hr 18 min), Munich (3 hrs 15 min), Hamburg (3 hrs 37 min) or Berlin (4

ceptional performance, flexibility and efficiency, with lower per-

hrs 12 min) to the metropolis on the River Main both quickly and easily.

seat costs and an extended range that will open up new

As per official information in December, Deutsche Bahn (DB) will be mak-

destinations in the single-aisle market.

ing their most comprehensive timetable changes (in recent years).

by T NH DESK

12

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

by TNH DESK

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NEWS

Tourism Minister of Kerala inaugurates Responsible Tourism Mission and special Onam holiday packages ewly launched project is expected

‘Responsible Tourism Mission’project aimed

ister unveiled the promotional video and

to woo tourists for raw travelling

at the development of local communities

concept card of the festive theme “Nattinpu-

experience while promoting small

and growth of tourism to state. With the an-

rangalil Onam Unnaam, Onasammanangal

nouncement of various Onam packages

Vangam (Let's have Onam feast in villages

under Responsible Tourism mission to be

and get Onam gifts)

N

businesses and local communities.

Kadakampalli Surendran, Minister of Tourism, Government of Kerala inaugurated

available till September 30th, Tourism Min-

“Nattinpurangalil Onam Unnaam, Onasammanangal Vangam” project comprises of various Onam packages for tourists and integrates small enterprises run by the local communities and responsible tourism units.

Through this project, tourists can enjoy the raw travelling experience while participating in household Onam celebrations. Moreover, it will help interested local families to welcome tourists to their homes and treat them with Onasadya- the festival feast.

Kadakampalli Surendran, Minister of Tourism, Government of Kerala said, “The

government has allotted `4.5 crore for the new venture and all the projects executed

by Responsible Tourism mission are aimed at development of the local community.

by T NH DESK

Clarks Inn- the fastest growing hotel company in India

Clarks Inn Group of Hotels has emerged as probably the biggest success story on India’s hospitality landscape, particularly in the last few years. Today, in a span of just

Company’s portfolio count stands at 80

over 11 years, company’s corporate catch

hotel properties, including over 40 in op-

phrase has spread across India and beyond

eration, across 17 states in India and one

in Nepal where it is gearing to open its first

in Nepal in just over 11 years of opera-

international property early next year.

tion.

An astute leader with over four decades

Very few hotel companies in India have

of experience in the hotel industry, S N Sri-

successfully leveraged the growth potential

vastava, President & Co-founder, Clarks Inn

that Indian market offers. And the list sig-

Group of Hotels, helped formed this com-

nificantly narrows down when we consider

pany over 11 years ago and has led this

home grown hotel companies and brands.

growth from the front. “Clarks Inn Group of

In essence, there have been many start-ups

Hotels is a Hotel Management company that

but few successes. However, it has been a

was formed in 2006 in the wake of huge

different story for one company that flaunts

tential investors to make a beeline to part-

demand-supply gap that existed in the

its USP as ‘Inns that care’ attracting inde-

ner with it.

budget and mid-market hotel space.” he in-

pendent hotel owners, developers and po-

In business for just over a decade now,

forms.

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

13

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NEWS

MMPRC APPOINTS TRAC REPRESENTATIONS AS ITS MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE IN INDIA

B

y the white sand, near the sea, what a dreamy place to be; Maldives is truly the castaway island of your imagination. From skimming the Indian Ocean waters on a jet-ski to parasailing,

kayaking and surfing. Maldives is the ideal destination for an active beach holiday. It is one of the top tourist destinations in the Indian Ocean region. Famous for its pristine beaches, extreme water sports, relaxed environment and exotic lagoons.

India performed incredibly well for destination Maldives in the year 2016. Visitor’s arrivals from India to Maldives registered an overall growth of 27.9% over 2015 with total arrivals of 66,955 travellers. India is an important source market for Maldives as it shares a close relation with India and has distinct offerings for the Indian travellers.

by TNH DESK

Jalmahotsav returns………………..! make you reach out for your cameras to freeze the thrilling moment of your life up in the air.

This quiet, secluded place will be buzzing with activities for full month long when it will transform into a tented city to host the guests from India and abroad. Cultural extravaganza every day, after sun down including the ne w year eve -party will be something you will cherish. Craft bazaar, food bazaar, cycle rides and many more recreational activities are waiting to be explored.

There is wide range of attractive packages to choose from a tent city package to island night camping package to staying in premium / deluxe tent. The tariff ranges from 7,100/- to 20,000/-. For details log into www.jalmahotsav.com or reach tourist helpline at 18002337777.

by T NH DESK

T

he third edition of Jalmahotsav, a festival of adventure tourism in central India, is back with a bang and is about to unfold between 15th Oct 2017 to 2nd Jan 2018, at Hanuwantiya, District

Khandwa. Hanuwantiya is a serene destination by the banks of the Indira Sagar dam- one of the biggest man-made dams and offers unmatched scope for adventure lovers. The 80 days long adventure carnival will be a treat for all those who want to seek adventure other than rock climbing or mountaineering. A wide range of water , land and air activities will be available to choose from like parasailing, para motoring, hot air ballooning, wind surfing, para -sailing, island camping, jet -skiing, artificial climbing wall, Burma bridge, night camping, bird watching and lots more. Para-motoring and hot air ballooning will

14

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

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NEWS

New "Entertainment Suite" launched by Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

T

ternational events.

Entertainment Suite. Designed

a perfect venue for those that

by award-winning Hong Kong ar-

want to entertain in style. The

chitect and designer, Joyce

suite also doubles as a private

Wang, and with cutting edge

refuge in the centre Hong Kong’s

technology installed, the 2,250-

art, fashion, and dining district. At

square foot suite is dedicated to

the heart of the suite is a salon

extravagant entertaining whether

with 4-meter long ‘Cabinet of De-

that be a wedding proposal,

lights’ where guests can find

baby shower, sophisticated

boutique wines on tap, rare vin-

bachelor party, exclusive product

tages selected by Amber restau-

launch, memorable anniversary

rant’s expert sommelier, and a

party or live streaming of key in-

mixologist ‘booth’.

he Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong has unveiled the hotel’s new

The hotel’s newest and largest suite oozes high-octane glamour,

by TNH DESK

Kannur promotes pristine destination – Paithalmala Renowned Indian Footballer C K Vineeth flagged off the Paithalmala Marathon in Kannur.

Pool Side, Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, Vayalar

Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, Vayalar, focuses on green initiatives, recycles discarded towels into planter boxes!

G

reen is a huge theme at

gion of Vayalar, has started a new

Vasundhara Sarovar

process of recycling discarded

Premiere Vayalar, no

towels by turning them into a

cash prizes of `8000 and

C K Vineeth, Indian foot-

`6000 respectively. Moreover,

baller officially flagged off the

Athira Michael received prize,

Paithalmala marathon, organ-

who stood first amongst the

ized by District Tourism Pro-

three ladies participants. The

motion Council of Kannur in

district tourism board is keen

the presence of K C Joseph

on promoting the unexplored

MLA. The tourism board or-

and pristine destinations of

ganized a vertical marathon in

Kerala across the world.

the district for about 4.5 km,

Paithalmala, the scenic hill

out of which about 3.5 km

station in Kannur is one of the

were uphill. 80 contestants

destinations that have im-

from Kerala, Tamil Nadu and

mense untapped tourism po-

Karnataka participated in the

tential in Kerala.

marathon.

Shiju C.P won the marathon and was awarded with a cash

Speaking on the occasion, Mir Mohammed Ali, District

less evident than at architecture,

planter box. This initiative from

prize of `10000, certificate

Collector, Chairman - DTPC,

design and facilities in and

the Engineering & Housekeeping

and medal. Karthi P - second

event, our objective was to

Kannur stated, “Through this

around the hotel. As a part of its

department at the hotel further re-

runner up and Josbin Dominic

promote the picturesque

sustainability efforts, the premium

inforces its belief on Reduce,

- third runner up of the

beauty of this magnificent des-

backwater resort in the virgin re-

Reuse & Recycle.

marathon were awarded with

tination.

16

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

by TNH DESK

by T NH DESK

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NEWS

LGBT tourism: it presented the 10th edition of Gnetwork 360

ITB ASIA 2017 ANNOUNCES MAJOR PARTNERSHIP WITH KOREA TOURISM ORGANIZATION

INPROTUR attended the conference held from 14 to 18 August in Buenos Aires.

The Ministry of Tourism of the Nation, through the National Institute of Tourism (INPROTUR), attended the presentation of the 10th edition of the International LGBT Business Conference and Tourism (Gnetwork 360) , held in the Argentina Chamber of Tourism (CAT).

Organized by the Gay Chamber of Commerce Lésbica Argentina (CCGLAR), Gnetwork 360 is the business appointment and tourism - oriented Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) most important in Latin America, which since 2008 takes place in the City Buenos Aires, Argentina. Leading figures from industry, from around the world gather after generating more and better development opportunities for the segment. For the current edition more than 1,700 attendees are expected.

by TNH DESK

Great Outdoor Art City for the Solo Travellers in the USA For some, seeing art can be a meditative experience worth doing alone. Going at an individual pace allows for intimate moments, reflection and extra time to sketch or write, for the creatively inclined. While the U.S. has no shortage of galleries, beyond the museum walls lays a sprawling canvas of incredible sculpture parks, street murals and public installations that are prime for solo exploration.

Poydras Corridor – New Orleans, Louisiana The largest city in Louisiana is considered one of the greatest crossroads of culture in the world. It’s where American jazz was born, Creole cooking was invented and Mardi Gras was perfected. Now, the Poydras Corridor Sculpture Exhibition is putting New Orleans on the map for its visual art.

by TNH DESK

Partnership set to attract more Leisure, MICE and Corporate buyers to the milestone ITB Asia event and promote Korea as a world-class destination in Asia.

ITB Asia has secured a major partnership with the Korea Tourism Organization of Singapore (KTO). The memorandum of cooperation with Messe Berlin (Singapore) Pte Ltd, organisers of Asia’s leading travel trade show, looks to boost Korea’s appeal as a key destination place in Southeast Asia.

“Korea’s first-class transport infrastructure, worldclass readiness, as well as the popularity of Korean pop culture and fashion has boosted the country’s appeal as one of the leading destinations for today’s business and leisure travellers. We are pleased to be working in partnership with the Korea Tourism Organisation of Singapore this year and delighted that ITB Asia has been chosen as the key platform of choice for KTO in bridging more visitor and buyer connections, and boosting awareness of Korea’s thriving tourism industry,” said Katrina Leung, Executive Director of Messe Berlin (Singapore).

“Looking at the global business trends, growth in corporate travel and MICE, it is clear that Asia will be the most strategic market for us in the next decade.” said Yoon Seung Hwan, Director, Korea

by TNH DESK Tourism Organisation.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

17

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NEWS

ETIHAD AIRWAYS PARTNERS WITH INDIAN DESIGNER MANISH ARORA AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK

A getaway where well-being radiates from inside out At The Tamara Coorg traditional healing techniques meet contemporary ambience for holistic renewal.

The ancient science of life, ‘Ayurveda’, which is proudly considered as the wealth of India, is the secret of positive health and fitness. It is a legacy that has been passed through centuries. The award winning luxury resort – The Tamara Coorg, known for its pictur-

The Tamara - The Elevation Spa

esque and tranquil surrounding takes rejuvenation a notch higher with the introduction of its Ayurvedic sojourn package. The property launches the Ayurveda indulgence programme at “The Elevation Spa” in conjunction with the monsoon season when Ayurvedic treatments are the most effective in strengthening the body and mind while cur-

Globally renowned designer celebrates 10th anniversary of his French collection with exclusive showcase in Mumbai

ing illnesses and fatigue.

Etihad Airways and Lakmé Fashion Week announced a collaboration with one of the most lauded and inspiring international contemporary designers, Paris-based Manish Arora,who returns to the prestigious Mumbai fashion event after more than five years. The celebrated Indian couturier marks the 10th anniversary of his colourful Paris collection by presenting ‘CosmicLove’ at the Lakmé Fashion Week Winter Festive 2017 on August 19. His show, Etihad Airways Presents Manish Arora,

Sensing the immense and innumerable possibilities of promoting Ker-

took the star-studded audience of Bollywood celebrities,

ala as a destination for ‘Adventure and Activity based Tourism’, the State

lifestyle media and fashion lovers on a visual journey that

Tourism Department is focusing on developing new projects to utilize the

spans the tribes of Africa and the outer reaches of the universe.

same, said Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran.

Known for his astute craftsmanship and unique play on

Inaugurating a one day workshop organized by the department to give

colours – his trademark being pink and gold – Arora’s designs

shape to its tourism policy, the Minister said that the need and time has

are inspired by Indian heritage but with a contemporary vibe.

come for the tourism department to evolve itself to cater to the needs of

Etihad Airways flew Manish Arora on itsrecently-launched

activity and adventure based tourism from now on.

Airbus A380 Paris – Abu Dhabi service and onwards to India,

While the primary focus at the workshop had been to find new possi-

capturing his journey on film from the French capital to Delhi,

bilities to take adventure tourism forward in the state, the minister has

during which he speaks candidly about his inspiration from the

stressed on the need to work closely and in coordination with the Forest

varied cultures and environment for his renowned creations.

Department to realize the goals in the adventure tourism sector.

by T NH DESK

18

Kerala’s New Tourism Policy with emphasis on Adventure Tourism to be tabled in Assembly soon: Minister

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

by TNH DESK

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COVER STORY

IATO Convention 2017

'Time to Reinvent Ourselves' With 'Indian Tourism: Time to Reinvent Ourselves' as its theme, IATO will hold its 33rd Annual Convention on September 7th-10th, 2017 in Bhubaneswar, the Capital of Odisha. Choice of 'Time-to-reinvent-ourselves' as the theme for the convention recognizes stagnation in the tourism industry and the need to reinvent.

v B PREM KUMAR Y

IATO has aptly chosen 'Indian Tourism – Time to reinvent ourselves' as its theme for its 33rd annual convention after due deliberation. Pronab Sarkar, President, IATO said that the theme of year's convention, 'Indian Tourism – Time to reinvent ourselves', is very timely considering the present changing scenario in tourism. Our focus is to revitalize the efforts for diversification of tourism products and weave it in the tourism narrative taking all new initiatives, said Sarkar.

The tourism scene in India is faced with tremendous stress; increasing taxation and policy changes, changing distribution systems and competition from online operators and the neighboring countries have negatively impacted tourism growth and tour operators' business operations. "These have kept tour operators under stress and how to remain in business is prime consideration. Stakeholders are reassessing the needs and how to invest in a new future. The brands need updating to stay alive and vibrant and periodically reinvent as now the whole market scene has changed," said Sarkar, adding that the industry needs to think out of the box and beyond the Golden Triangle and start investing in the new areas. Tour Operators have to reinvent themselves with digital use to reach target audience effectively. Thrust must be on experience-led tourism. "Now the time

20

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

“Now the time has come to take a deep look on how we have been running our businesses. The time has come to consider the possibilities to reinvent ourselves and start investing in a new future.”

“We cannot keep on doing the same things we have been doing in the past and expect different results. So it is time to think afresh, come up with new ideas and reinvent ourselves.”

President, IATO

Sr VP, IATO

Pronab Sarkar

has come to take a deep look on how we have been running our businesses.

The time has come to consider the possibilities to reinvent ourselves and start investing in a new future," said Sarkar.

India's Tourism industry is facing many challenges such as an aged destination brand, low demand from key source markets, bad infrastructure, unfavorable taxation and changing distribution systems. "In such a situation, sustaining is not only hard but sometimes almost impossible. The theme of this year’s convention is in-

Rajeev Kohli

spired by such challenges. It is a fact that Indian Tourism is under enormous pressure," said Rajeev Kohli, Senior Vice President, IATO, adding "We cannot keep on doing the same things we have been doing in the past and expect different results. So it is time to think afresh, come up with new ideas and reinvent ourselves. That is where this year's theme comes from."

This year's convention will have a little bit different format. Business sessions will be more interactive. The Association aims to make deliberations to be dynamic and two way. Each ses-

September 2017--final_Layout 1 9/5/2017 1:38 PM Page 21

COVER STORY

sion will have a panel to set-up the discussion followed by dedicated discussion time with the audience on the topic. IATO wants its members to be involved in the discussion on how to take the industry out of its doldrums.

"We want our delegates to get more involved. We want them to actively participate in deliberation and in decision making process. When things are bad, it’s the best time to reinvent yourself. Your power to choose your direction of your life allows you to reinvent yourself, to change your future, and to powerfully influence the rest of creation," said Kohli. "I think unless the industry wants change, unless industry wants do something different, nothing will change. The government cannot order us to do something different; we cannot order the government to do something different. The idea is that everyone collectively discuss and decide what is it that we can do to make a change," Kohli said.

Criticizing theme of this year's convention, Arun Anand, MD, Midtown Travels, said that he really didn't understand the theme and that how the industry can reinvent in view of the current scenario. "My suggestion would have been to make the impact of GST on inbound as theme of the Convention where we could have raised the problems being faced by everyone. Issues like the prices of hotels, meals, transport and guide charges (RCM) should have been highlighted to the Government. IATO's Convention are a forum to highlight our problems and this would have been an excellent opportunity to raise the GST issues," said Anand.

Reinvention: a continuous process Anil Parashar, President and CEO, ITQ said that reinvention is a continu-

“The reinvention is a continuous process as each era brings with it a new set of trends. Only flexible and adaptive businesses can survive through decades and even centuries.

Reinvention of Indian Tourism has already begun and it is quite relevant in the current scenario. A series of policy changes and notable rules have given much needed impetus to the slow moving pace of the industry.

President & CEO, ITQ

Head, Relationships, Cox & Kings Ltd

ous process as each era brings with it a new set of trends. Only flexible and adaptive businesses can survive through decades and even centuries.

The trends right now points at the fast evolving landscape of technology and digitalization and reimagining or reanalyzing the consumer demand. In the technological front, adoption of mobile is the most important shift happening. Be it a travel agent or a traveler, the hand held device has created ground breaking shift in how travel is being promoted and embraced.

"Reinvention of Indian Tourism has already begun and it is quite relevant in the current scenario. A series of policy changes and notable rules have given much needed impetus to the slow moving pace of the industry," said Karan Anand, Head- Relationship, Cox & Kings, adding that from the tax regime that has helped the organized players and leveled the field to improving tourism infrastructure, all have

been an integral part of the reinvention process.

According to Parashar, India is the second largest nation in terms of mobile phone users and among them a huge majority belongs to the category of Smartphone users. This means that the consumer is educated and need all information handy. To match the demand, travel industry needs to adopt the latest technology and move towards Artificial Intelligence. Also important is the analyzing the thought process and preference of the traveler, who is becoming increasingly demanding – this new generation seeks more choices, personalization, flexibility and connectivity than ever before, which can be addressed by only a Travel Expert having best tools and access to wide range content or options available on travel selling platform, which is exactly ITQ is working towards reinvention and innovation.

Parashar says that introduction of

Anil Parashar

Karan Anand

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

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COVER STORY

Regional connectivity scheme and UDAN in 2017 budget has set the foundation stones for one of the largest and most dynamic sectors globally. In order to reinvent itself, the industry needs to tap the immense market potential in the tier-2 and tier-3 cities and this will help unlock further demand. It is also important to connect the nation through robust transport mediums. Diversifying Indian tourism through introduction of newer tourism verticals is imperative for the success of tourism.

The Challenges Today the industry is facing multiple challenges. "The taxation is out of sync. The new GST system unfortunately has not been very fare to us.

We have no credit system. Many elements that were never taxed before have all of sudden been put into tax bracket under GST. Consequently the entire product cost has gone up," said Kohli, adding, "We were already overtaxed and uncompetitive compared to other parts of the world, and today we have been made even more uncompetitive. It is very sad statement for us that despite all our efforts, despite speaking to so many people in

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TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

the government, the Government of India considers tourism a luxury, a non-essential part of the economy.

Unfortunately this generation of politicians will not live to see the damage that will happen down the line when India becomes even more inconsequential tourism destination."

Conservation of the country's cultural and historical resources is a big challenge. "We must all focus on preservation and enhancement of our cultural and historical resources," said Karan Anand, adding, "there are different Indian states with each possessing its own unique attribute.

Encompassing different experiences by creating newer circuits will help exhibit India in unique ways that will enable Industry's growth both domestic and inbound." Infrastructure and safety are other key challenges. Physical infrastructure has to be improved that will facilitate tourist movement.

India is one bright spot in the South Asia that has immense potential to draw a considerable portion of tourists subject to further innovations. "We need to broad base our product offerings and tour operators should innovate and introduce new products and

My suggestion would have been to make the impact of GST on inbound tourism as theme of the Convention where we could have raised the problems being faced by everyone.

Arun Anand

MD, Midtown Travels services. They should take onus on themselves and not depend on the government’s initiatives," added Karan Anand.

According to Parashar, as the government is moving from one problem solving tactic to the next, there are still certain issues that are affecting the health of tourism such as: tourist safety, especially for women travellers.

It is imperative to create a better and safer India which welcomes all its guests.

Arun Anand rues that there is not much publicity about our country in the source markets. He said that India has not been able to create a demand in the last 70 years where the customer goes to the tour operator in his/her country and asks for tour package for India. He added "We are just dependent on a few tour operators in overseas countries who are promoting India. Our advertisements should target the consumer through the local media in the respective countries."

September 2017--final_Layout 1 9/5/2017 1:39 PM Page 23

NEWS

IATO Annual Convention to bring a turnaround in Odisha tourism sector The department of tourism, Odisha is

rector, Odisha Tourism, “IATO convention is

eagerly looking to offer a push to its eco-

held across different cities of India every

tourist destinations with the forthcoming

year and Chennai hosted the convention last

IATO conclave.

year. Tour operators constitute the backbone

Here’s something to cheer for travel com-

of the state and this is an event for the travel

panies from the eastern region of India. In-

companies. We intend to offer the much-

dian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) is

needed boost to the tourism potential of the

all set to host its 33rd Annual Convention at

state and at the same time, bring the tour

Hotel Mayfair Lagoon in Bhubaneshwar from

operators from across the country under one

September 7 to 10. The conclave will be

umbrella. We would be organizing a three-

hosted in association with the department of

day familiarization trips for tour operators on

tourism, Odisha. This is incidentally the sec-

the occasion. It’s been past quite some time

ond time that IATO has selected Bhubanesh-

that we have been running advertising cam-

war as its venue for hosting the conclave.

paigns to offer an impetus to the tourism po-

The convention themed Indian TourismTime to reinvent ourselves will mark the

tential of the state.”

Odisha Tourism plans to popularize the

hopeful that the convention will augment the Buddhist tourist destinations in the

presence of around 1,000 travel companies

eco-tourist destinations of the state in a

from across the country. There will be nearly

major way. Jawle said, “The state has a

1,000 delegates from all over the country

number of eco-tourist points like Simlipal

surge in global tourist arrivals in the state?

and around 25 travel companies from

National Park, Satkosia Gorge on river Ma-

Jawle further said, “Global tourists don't visit

Bhubaneshwar will make their presence at

hanadi, Sambalpur and there are a number

the state directly but come through tour op-

the event.

of forests around Bhubaneshwar. The state

erators.

According to Nitin Bhanu Das Jawle, Di-

has around 45 eco-tourist retreats.” Jawle is

state.”

So will this convention help to bring a

by T NH DESK

Odisha waits IATO Convention with bated breath!

IATO’s Annual Convention is expected

tour operators from all over India that have

Popularizing the Buddhist tourist destina-

to bring a turnaround in inbound tourism

their establishments across the globe. Once

tions of the state remains one of the priori-

in Odisha.

they include the state in their travel itiner-

ties of IATO. Sarangi said, “It is quite

ary and brochures, then we hope that

difficult to offer a boost to all tourist desti-

of tourism potential and is among the more

global tourists can plan their trips to the

nations of the state but we plan to empha-

affordable tourist destinations but the usual

state. The convention will bring a surge in

size on Buddhist tourist getaways since a

buzz about global inbound tourism is miss-

global and domestic inbound tourism in the

number of tour operators specialize in Bud-

ing. With an effort to offer the much-

state in the coming period.”

dhist tourism. Our other areas of priority are

The land of Black Pagoda has a plethora

needed boost to the tourism potential of the land, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has joined hands with Odisha Tourism to host its Annual Convention in Bhubaneshwar in September, 2017.

Gagan Sarangi, Chairman, IATO, Odisha Chapter explained, “We want to highlight the overall tourism potential of the entire state of Odisha. We are inviting the reputed

to showcase eco-tourism and rural tourism

“The convention will bring a surge in global and domestic inbound tourism in the state in the coming period.”

Gagan Sarangi, Chairman, IATO, Odisha Chapter

of the state. The annual convention will be a great event to offer a fillip to the tourism potential of the land. We are looking ahead for the inbound tourism inclusive of both global and domestic tourists to shoot up by 20 per cent to 30 per cent in the future.”

by T NH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

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EXOTIC DESTINATION

Odissi Dance

Odisha - a land of myriad marvels Rightly called as the land of myriad marvels, Odisha is a charming state of India. Its dynamic topographical and vegetational strength have combined to extract some of the most striking destinations which offer a visual feast to its visitors. This state also provides highly educative and culturally pleasing insight into one of the oldest civilizations of the world. Read on to know more about this astonishing state…

BY ARCHANA SHARMA

he historical state of Odisha is located amidst beautiful lush green mountains of the Eastern Ghats. Odisha is blessed with palm-fringed beaches, sparkling lakes, winding rivers, mighty waterfalls and blue hills of Eastern Ghats, which are home to rich flora and fauna that impress and lure tourists from all over the world. Odisha is popular for its fairs festivals, stone carving, appliqué work, silver filigree, exotic handicrafts, and exquisite textiles. This state is dotted with many architecturally celebrated temples, sacred shrines, and heritage monuments, which makes it one of the most hidden splendid cultural landscapes in India.

Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism have flourished in this land with equal ease that pays reverence to its ancient deities with extravagant style from the religious architectural wonders in the famous “Golden Triangle of Bhubaneswar-Puri-Konark”, where tourists can get an encapsulated experience of Odisha in all its infinite charm.

T

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TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

Best time to visit The ideal time to visit Odisha is from October to March owing to its salubrious weather conditions.

What to See? Bhubaneswar It is the capital as well as ancient city of Odisha. It has many temples that are built from sandstone and dotted around Bindu Sagar Lake in the old city, including the 11th-century Hindu Lingaraja Temple. Outside, Rajarani Temple are sculpted figures of the guardians of the 8 cardinal and ordinal directions. Another must visit place is Odisha State Museum which features weaponry, Jain antiques and indigenous pattachitra paintings.

Puri Puri is a city in the state of Odisha. Located 60 kilometres south of the state capital of Bhubaneswar, it is also known as ‘Sri Jagannath Dham’ after the 12th-century

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EXOTIC DESTINATION

Shanti Stupa at Dhauligiri

How to get here?

By Air: Regular flights landing at the only major airport of the city namely Ă‚Biju Patnaik AirportĂŠ connect it to all the major cities of the country such as Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Vishakhapatnam, Hyderabad and Raipur.

Jagannath Temple

Jagannath Temple located in the city. It is one of the original Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Although princely states do not exist in India today but the heirs of the Gajapati Dynasty of Khurda still perform the ritual duties of the temple. Apart from the historic temple Puri is known for its fine sands for Puri Beach.

Konark Konark is another historic town in the state of Odisha, India. It is located on the coast by the Bay of Bengal about 65 km from Bhubaneshwar. This place has the site of the 13th-century Sun Temple, also called the Black Pagoda, built in black granite during the reign of Narasimhadeva-I. The temple is a World Heritage Site.

The temple is mostly in ruins now, and a collection of its sculptures is housed in the Sun Temple Museum, which is run by the Archaeological Survey of India. Konark is also home to an annual dance festival called Konark Dance Festival, held every December, devoted to classical Indian dance forms, including Odissi - the traditional classical dance of Odisha.

Dhauligiri Dhauligiri is a hillside with another name as Dhauli located on the River Daya banks. It is just 8 km far from the south of Bhubaneshwar. You can find splendid Edicts of Ashoka embossed on a mass of rock in Dhauli, beside

By Rail: Bhubaneshwar is the most convenient and important railway station in Odisha. An excellent train network connects Bhubaneshwar to Calcutta, Puri, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Tirupati and Trivandrum. Apart from Bhubaneshwar Railway Station, there are numerous railheads in Odisha, which link all major cities and towns to Bhubaneshwar and other important places within and outside the state.

By Road: Odisha has a wide network of roads that connects well to the rest of the country by National highways and State highways. Bhubaneshwar the capital city is well linked to all major cities within Odisha and its neighboring states.

Trivia Festivals in Odisha: Some of the popular festivals you must witness in Odisha are Kalinga Mahotsava, Konark Dance Festival, Chandan Yatra and majorly, Rath Yatra.

Specialties of this state: Ikat silk, Pata paintings, Silver filigree and beautiful Stone carving.

the way to the hill summit. It is believed that Dhauli hill was the battlefield of the Kalinga War. The spectacular Shanti Stupa or Peace Pagoda is also located here. Apart from these places, there is many to explore in this soulful state of India like the Nandankanan Zoological Park, Udaygiri and Khandagiri Caves, Ratnagiri, Taratarini Temple and Chilika Lake etc.

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TRENDS

NEW FADS IN THE DESTINATION WEDDING MARKET TO WATCH OUT FOR Planning a fairytale destination wedding? We searched for some of the latest fads in the Indian and international destination wedding market. Bold cakes, over-the-top attire, exotic cuisine, gifting lounges and more … Read on for our list!

v B NEHA KIRPAL Y

Indian trends: 1. Small intimate affair: The big fat Indian wedding is a thing of the past.

Brides and grooms these days are opting for personal and intimate celebrations with close friends and family in scenic outdoors over brunch. Short guest lists are in vogue, as the couple spends less time and money as compared to an at-home wedding. While the to-beweds typically spend an average of seven nights in their destination, the guests stay approximately four nights to extend their experience beyond the special day itself.

2. Increased use of technology: Of late, destination weddings are becoming more technologically advanced than ever—with professional websites, digital/interactive video invites and planning apps like Pinterest and WeddingWire. Image mapping is a projection technology that allows you to transform a space with lighting and moving pictures. Couples love screening a slideshow with pictures of their childhood and how they met. Those who

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TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

can’t make it can always tune into the festivities virtually—with the help of live streaming on Skype, FaceTime and photo sharing apps. Many wedding photographers also publicize their travel schedules on Instagram and Facebook.

Further, short films that capture the top snippets of the wedding are another big hit. Companies take great pains to create Bollywood-style wedding videos

and team it with a great soundtrack. Of course, there is the added excitement of sharing one’s wedding teaser on social media later!

3. Candid photography: Fun and natural wedding photos are the order of the day as they provide a more authentic feel than the traditional forced portrait shots. Local excursions and gimmicks like underwater bridal shoots help cap-

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TRENDS

ture the landscape of the unique destinations. Such activities make sure that the big day remains etched in the minds of family and friends for years to come.

Pre-wedding shoots set in dreamy settings and exotic backdrops are another rage, in which couples don fancy outfits. Some photographers even recommend a day-after shoot in natural surroundings away from all the wedding hullaballoo and rush. Drone photography is another recent trend, as more and more couples opt for cinematic aerial shots.

4. Family friendly: Destination weddings are all about catering to multigenerational celebrations as they give guests a chance to double their experience as a family vacation. For this reason, all-inclusive luxury resorts that cater to children and young adults are a popular choice.

5. Keeping it informal: The formal sit-down dinner is being replaced with more innovative options, like set-up stations, self-serve bars, food installations and trucks. Games are another new trend at weddings these days. Lawn games like croquet are a great way for guests to break the ice. Further, fun accessories like identity cards reading “Team Groom” and “Team Bride” are yet another fashion style statement.

International trends: 1. Personalization: A lot of effort is going into adding a personal touch to the guest experience, so that the wed-

ding is an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime one. Customization is the key— whether it’s focusing on local food, culture, customs and cuisines. Intimate events, such as “destination elopements” and rooftop weddings are becoming more and more popular.

Elopement packages usually include the whole setup, including photography, videography, catering and cake.

2. Outside-the-box locations: Lately, adventure is a huge draw for couples wanting to tie the knot in style—looking for experiences and getaways that match their interests, whether it’s snorkeling in Costa Rica, hiking in the mountains of Italy or boating on the coast of Australia. Even though tropical islands and beach weddings still top the list, people are now increasingly looking for unconventional locations that may surprise their guests and are not very commercialized. A cruise wedding, for instance, is the perfect idea for all those who love the ocean atop an extravagantly embellished private ship.

Iceland, Ireland, Canada and South Africa are emerging as other recent

favourites.

3. Going local: Many couples choose to bring along their own local vendors who they are familiar with, to a destination. Regional flavours of entertainment at weddings—whether it’s local musicians, traditional dishes or dance performances go a long way in creating some magical memories for guests. Locally sourced ingredients, suspended floral centerpieces and dangling décor are other popular practices that also keep costs down.

4. Portrait studios: These are the new-age photo booths. Once the photographer clicks your picture, you get a classic portrait instead of a regular photograph. Some couples also get an artist to sketch a vintage image of their guests. This works as a great momento of the occasion—one that will certainly be for keeps.

5. Destination bachelorettes: Gone are the days when only grooms would head out for the infamous bachelor party. It’s now the bride who plans a fun trip to a gorgeous destination with her girlfriends before the big day.

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NEWS

Trip 360˚ introduces

'Mission Extreme' Mountaineer Satyarup Siddhanta concludes the first Mission Extreme: Expert Speak.

For those who like pushing the boundaries and seeking adven-

Malaysia Introduces Multiple Entry E-Visa (Mev) For Indian Tourists

ture that we seldom hear about, Trip 360˚ organised an Expert

The Malaysian government introduced the new Multiple Entry E-

mountaineer Satyarup Siddhanta. The event saw an intimate

Speak to enable such mountaineers to climb the most aspirational peaks in the world: the 7 Summits. Trip 360˚ gave a short glimpse of how it feels to be on the life-changing expeditions in its recent 'Mission Extreme: Expert Speak' by its specialist and undefeatable

Visa (MEV) for Indian tourists, effective immediately, from 1 August

gathering of all the adventure enthusiasts who were eager to listen

2017 to 31 July 2018. The e-visa, which can be applied online at

to Satyarup's successful ascent to Carstensz Pyramid (4,884 m),

www.windowmalaysia.my, will allow all Indian nationals residing

Papua province of Indonesia. The Speak was organised on 26th

abroad (except Singapore), to spend up to 30 days in Malaysia per

Aug at the Institute of Hotel Management in Bengaluru.

visit, and is valid for a period of three months.

The visa fee will cost `1000, (not inclusive of the bank charges of

Carstensz Pyramid is the highest summit of Mount Jayawijaya in the Sudirman Range of the western central highlands of Papua

INR50), as well as a 25 USD service charge. Applications will take 48

Province, Indonesia. Getting there is one of the most unimaginable

hours to process. This development comes as part of Malaysia’s Gov-

tasks yet very possible. With an inspiring tone, Satyarup shared

ernment efforts in increasing tourist arrivals from India, with a targeted

his experience of meeting the dangerous tribes of the area and the

1 million tourist arrivals in 2017. India is currently the sixth top tourist

harsh, deadly terrain. A mini-movie encapsulating the entire Mis-

generating market for Malaysia, with a total 638,578 Indian visitors

sion Extreme was also screened.

recorded in 2016.

by TNH DESK

by TNH DESK

Emirates’ revamps A380 Onboard Lounge Emirates’ recently revamped its

guests and serves the finest wines from

award-winning A380 service, onboard

around the world. The six wines on offer

Lounge that made its operational debut

differ by destination but a champagne

on a flight to Kuala Lumpur. The On-

offering of Moët & Chandon or Veuve

board Lounge was first introduced on 1

Clicquot is always available.

August, 2008 and has since become a

Emirates has over 6,000 crew trained

mainstay of Emirates’ double decker air-

as mixologists who can whip up 14

craft. Now in its 9th year, the Emirates

cocktails such as its signature Bloody

A380 Onboard Lounge is arguably the

Mary or a non-alcoholic Apple Spritzer.

most popular social spot at 40,000 feet.

The lounge stocks fine spirits such as

The latest makeover of the lounge, in-

Hennessy XO Cognac and Chivas

spired by private yacht cabins, features

Regal 18 year old Scotch whisky. It also

a more intimate and social area. With a

serves over 18 different bar snacks, the

clientele made up of Business and First

most popular of which are the smoked

Class customers on board the A380, the

salmon bagels and fresh fruit skewers.

exclusive lounge accommodates 26

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by TNH DESK

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TRAVEL MANTRA

Tips for Solo Women Travellers Solo woman travel is on the rise nowadays and faces both obstacles as well as different experiences while on the journey. Travel experiences are cherishing memories for a lifetime. Although there are no fixed rules of a trip for single woman, but to enjoy your trip in all aspects you must keep some tips in mind. Read on to get some smart travel tips for the single women travellers…

v B ARCHANA SHARMA Y

Be confident The worst thing you can do for yourself both internally and externally as a solo female traveller is look fearful. In conditions like when you’re lost or in trouble, stay assertive and confident, no matter how tough or the challenging time it may be. Just remember, in the end it will all be okay. This is a major part of the challenge of solo travel.

Try to blend in with locals and behave like one Before travelling to the destination, do extreme research about the place, its culture, language and mannerism. It would help you to easily blend with the locals. As they say, when in Rome behave like Roman! So, wherever you are travelling think, act and dress like a local just to be safe from pickpockets or stop being identified as a tourist. Let’s learn about the talking mannerism, wherever you go, you must learn how to

say the following six phrases and you’ll be golden: ‘Hello’, ‘Goodbye’, ‘Thank You’, ‘How Much Does that Cost?’, ‘Where are the Toilets?’, and ‘I love You’.

These simple and polite gestures make all the difference when it comes to respect the culture of any place.

If you feel uncomfortable around a certain person or in a situation, trust your gut feeling and get away from there as soon as you can. Don’t worry about coming across as rude, your safety and well being takes the prime importance.

If you’re confronted by a stranger trying to get too friendly, get up and leave giving an excuse like you’re expecting your parents / boyfriend any minute. Be confident and don’t make yourself look defenseless at all. Pick your cell and act as if you are talking to them.

Leave a trail Try to travel during daylight When you’re travelling long term it is often difficult to keep track of time. But, the golden rule for solo female travellers should be to always arrive at your destination before nightfall. Try starting on your journey during the day and when possible try and arrive at your destination in daylight. Note down that most incidents of theft and assault tend to happen at night, so it’s best to avoid night time travel when you’re travelling solo.

‘Social media’, like everything it has its various pros and cons. It can be a great tool when travelling solo. A simple check-in at a new location or a quick photo upload will help to keep your family and friends back home of your whereabouts. Besides that you must share your travelling itinerary with your friend or family back home before leaving for travel. Also, prior you leave home, try and set a sort of ‘time frame’ for instance, if you don’t see my post for 5 days straight, you know something is wrong.

Trust your instincts

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

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NEWS

SOTC launches Darshans – crafted spiritual experiences • First national Travel service provider to

A survey by SOTC was conducted in the

enter the integrated spiritual + leisure

age group of 18-55 years and above. Find-

segment

ings from the survey:

• Over 40 curated end to end itineraries

53% are interested to opt for a pilgrimage

that cover 60 popular spiritual destina-

tour if a reputed travel operator offered their

tions; 12 standalone and 30 circuits in

services.

partnership with ePuja

47% have travelled on a pilgrimage tour.

• Offers on ground services at the tem-

38% sought assistance to plan a pilgrim-

ples to aid pilgrims

age tour.

• Premium services including pre

19% sought assistance from a local travel

booked darshan, pujas, abhisheka and

agent.

homa

45% take a pilgrimage tour once in a year.

India has been one of the richest centers of

15% take a pilgrimage tour once in 6

spirituality over the last four thousand years.

Tourism opportunities have developed immensely in the last couples of decades. Religious places are ranked high in preferred

months.

Vishal Suri MD, SOTC Travel

51% of the respondents look at a hassle free experience as the top requirement from a pilgrimage tour.

tourist destinations for Indians. The National

this period.According to National Council of

Sample Survey Office (NSSO) report shows

Applied Economic Research (NCAER) half of

that between 2007 and 2015, the share of

the package trips were made for religious

respondents in India who perceived religion

and pilgrimage purposes and about 28 per-

tual tourism in the country, SOTC has intro-

to be very important increased by 11% to

cent for leisure and holiday purposes. These

duced Darshans in association with ePuja,

80% now and the average expenditure on

are clear indicators of the expanding sector.

India’s first online portal for religious cere-

religious trips has more than doubled during

38% want sightseeing and a guided tour as part of their pilgrimage tour.

To cater to this growing demand of spiri-

monies.

by TNH DESK

Lufthansa helps Indian start-ups take off to new heights • Over 10,000 expected at India’s largest start-up event ‘Startup Expo’ • More than 75 investors, 100 partners, 500 mentors, 250 startups showcase expected • Follows nationwide SME mentorship camps in 9 cities The Start-up Expo had taken place on 23 August at GoWork, Gurugram. Co-created by Lufthansa and The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), the unique one day event brought together all that is needed for start-up success – in-

L to R- Wolfgang Will, Senior Director South Asia, Lufthansa, Alexander Schlaubitz, VP, Marketing, Lufthansa

vestors, mentors, business experts, industry

of the first Startup Expo held in 2016, the

nity to explore funding opportunities, receive

partners, government agencies, corporates

second edition featured over 75 investors,

valuable insights at expert workshops, gain

and customers – all under one roof. Partici-

100 partners, 500 mentors, 250 startup

mentorship, engage with government organ-

pation was free of cost.

showcase and drawn more than 10,000 at-

izations, network with potential partners,

tendees. It will provide start-ups an opportu-

customers and more.

Taking forward the unprecedented success

30

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

by T NH DESK

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NEWS

Travkart and Avis team up to roll out exclusive international self-drive holiday packages The strategic association aims at deliv-

fering all the enthusiastic travelers on

ering premium travel experiences com-

Travkart platform some exclusive road trip

bined with an unmatched international

experiences that will truly make their jour-

self drive car rental experience in 168

ney an exciting adventure.”

countries.

The alliance will ensure Travkart users to

Travkart, the first and only online plat-

opt from diverse lucrative international

form for fixed departures of Holidays by

packages to Bangkok, Singapore, Malaysia

Sahibji Pvt. Ltd., has collaborated with Avis,

Dubai and others clubbed with self-drive

world’s leading self-drive car rental com-

experiences. Travkart is also planning to ex-

pany, to offer handpicked outbound holiday

tend the alliance for domestic travelers who

packages designed for every type of trav-

ing. This is resulting in the trend of self-

want to explore Indian destinations by their

eler. The move underscores Travkart’s com-

drive holidays gaining immense popularity.

own. Travelers can book their self-drive

mitment to deliver carefully curated

Thus, we decided to collaborate with a

holidays from packages live on the platform

premium travel experiences, combined with

global company like Avis to make Travkart

by logging on Travkart’s website or mobile

Avis’s unmatched international expertise of

the first travel brand for introducing inter-

app.

premium self drive car rentals services. The

national travel packages with the luxury of

partnership will allow travel agents to book

self-driving, thereby creating a new bench-

self-driving holidays are now fast gathering

car rental services in 168 countries includ-

mark in the Indian travel and tourism indus-

pace among the Indians for being experien-

ing Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai,

try.”

tial and adventurous in nature. This rising

After the USA, Australia and New Zealand,

Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Scot-

Sunil Gupta, Managing Director & CEO of

trend is driven by the ease of renting a car

land, UK, US, Europe etc. through Travkart

Avis India said, “There is a rapidly growing

of their choice, rising purchasing power of

website and Mobile Application.

desire for Indian to use self-drive cars while

the middle-class families, affordable naviga-

Speaking on the collaboration, Manheer

travelling abroad. This mantra of self-drive

tion systems with a GPS and also being able

Singh Sethi, Co-founder, Travkart.com, said,

holidays is capturing the imagination of the

to drive with Indian license in many coun-

“Indian outbound travelers seeking experi-

discerning and the well-travelled Indians.

tries like Australia, New Zealand, UK, Asia

ential holidays are fast maturing and evolv-

By teaming up with Travkart, we will be of-

as well as in India.

by TNH DESK

Mumbai Airport to host Helios’ first travel retail store in India uxury watch brand Helios, from

L

captive audience, but also in terms of the

Titan, has entered the travel retail

various store formats brands can use. As

segment with its first airport store in

travellers are exposed to a range of

India at Terminal 1 of the Chhatrapati Shiv-

brands, both local and international, they

aji International Airport (CSIA), adminis-

are often more informed and conscious as

tered by GVK Mumbai International Airport

consumers.

Private Limited (MIAL). The expansive re-

The offerings at the Helios airport store

tail arena at the Mumbai Airport, coupled

cater primarily to a younger audience,

with the high number of passenger footfalls

since a majority of sales for the brand

prompted the brand to enter the increas-

come from shoppers under the age of 40.

ingly appealing segment of airport retail.

The outlet provides a global shopping ex-

Watches have become an increasingly

perience to its patrons, bringing watch and

popular purchase in the travel retail seg-

timepiece enthusiasts a bouquet of over 30

ment, not only with respect to an ideal and

brands from the world over.

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

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NEWS

Dwarka gets its first Mercure hotel

VISTARA ENTERS INTO INTERLINE PARTNERSHIP WITH QATAR AIRWAYS Vistara announced the

will provide the ‘through check-

Mercure made its debut in the

a little over two hours from the

holy city of Dwarka with the open-

Jamnagar Airport. The hotel is

ing of Mercure Dwarka.

also in close proximity to Nagesh-

Renowned as one of the promi-

war Temple, Gopi Talav

nent Char Dham and one of the

Theertham, Rukmani Devi Tem-

seven most ancient religious

ple and Hanuman Mandir. The

cities in India. Strategically lo-

opening of Mercure Dwarka

cated in the Devbhumi Dwarka

marks AccorHotels’ fourth prop-

district of Gujarat, the hotel is a

erty in the land of legends, Gu-

short drive from the Dwarkadhish

jarat.

temple, popularly known as Jagat

Featuring 99 well-appointed

Mandir. The hotel is conveniently

guest rooms, including one suite,

located at a five minute drive

the hotel offers contemporary

from the railway station, an hour’s

homely comfort in the cosmic

drive from Porbandar Airport and

land of Krishna.

by T NH DESK

FEEs from tourism in India for July 2017 and Jan-July 2017 are as below: The highlights of the esti-

`87,034 and registered a

launch of an interline partner-

in’ facility, enabling customers

mates of FEEs from tourism

growth of 14.5% over January-

ship with Qatar’s flag-carrier,

to get their boarding passes at

in India for July 2017 and Jan-

July, 2015.

Qatar Airways.

the first point of departure for

July 2017 are as below:

The partnership enables

all the travel sectors, both do-

Qatar Airways’ customers to

mestic and international, and

(FEEs) through tourism (in `

travel seamlessly on Vistara’s-

have their baggage checked-in

terms)

domestic flights, to and from

through to their final destina-

Qatar Airway’s global net-

tion.

work.Together the two airlines

by TNH DESK

Foreign Exchange Earnings

• FEEs during the month of

• FEEs in US$ terms during

July 2017 were `14,986 crore

in June 2016 and `11,982crore

to FEEs of US$ 2.125 billion

in July 2015.

and US$ 1.884 billion in July

as compared to `14,285 crore

rupee terms in July 2017 over

US$ 2.325 billion as compared during the month of July 2016 2015.

• The growth rate in FEEs in

July 2016 was 4.9% compared

US$ terms in July 2017 over

to growth of 19.2% in July 2016

July 2016 was 9.4% compared

over July 2015.

to a positive growth of 12.8% in

• FEEs during the period Jan-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

terms) the month of July 2017 were

• The growth rate in FEEs in

32

Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) through tourism (in US $

uary- July 2017 were `1,02,082

July 2016 over July 2015.

crore registering a growth of

uary-July 2017 were US$

17.3% over same period of pre-

15.555 billion registering a

vious year. The FEEs during

growth of 20.2% over same pe-

January-July 2016 were

riod of previous year. by T NH DESK

• FEEs during the period Jan-

September 2017--final_Layout 1 9/5/2017 1:39 PM Page 33

NEWS

Ashwani Lohani appointed the new Chairman of Railway Board

Rajiv Bansal is the new Air India CMD Rajiv Bansal, additional secretary and financial advi-

The appointments committee of the cabinet appointed Air India chairman and managing director Ashwani Lohani as Chairman, Railway Board. Lohani took over from A.K. Mittal, whose resignation was accepted by railway minister Suresh Prabhu.

Lohani is an officer from Ashwani Lohani the 1980 batch of the Indian Chairman, Railway Board Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers (IRSME).

Mittal’s resignation came as a surprise because the appointments committee of the cabinet had just given him an extension. The extension was cleared by the Prime Minister’s Office. The committee had approved Mittal’s continuation as chairman till he attains the age of 62 in 2018.

by T NH DESK

sor in the Petroleum Ministry, joined as the new chairman of Air India as Ashwani Lohani joins Railway Board.

Rajiv Bansal, additional secretary and financial advisor in the Petroleum Ministry is the new chairman of Air India Ltd. “He is holding additional charge for three months and

Rajiv Bansal New Chairman, Air India

the government will then take a call on who the regular person should be, whether it should be Rajiv Bansal or someone else,” civil aviation secretary Rajiv Nayan Choubey said.

Earlier, the government named the current chairman of Air India Ashwani Lohani as the chairman of the Railway Board.

Bansal, a 1988 batch IAS officer has done an earlier stint in the Aviation Ministry as a director. He has also served in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, where he looked after digital payments, IT Act, Aadhaar, and internet governance.

by T NH DESK

Sanya Tourism promotional and marketing event Sanya Tourism Development Commission, China organized a marketing event on 16th

major Asian countries. “One of the main reason and incentive for this trip was upcoming

launch of a direct China Southern flight from New Delhi to Sanya. This will not only increase travel from India to Sanya, but also from Sanya to India, as awareness will be enhanced” said Zhang.

by T NH DESK

August at Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi which was attended by prominent outbound tour operators of Delhi NCR region.

Sanya is a small tropical beach destination in Hainan Province in south of China. Sanya is also known as China’s Hawaii with 20km long stretch of beach line and packed with lot of activities for tourist like golf courses, natural scenic beauty, ethnic cultural experience, water sports such as snorkeling and jet-skiing, rainforest hiking to name a few. Sanya has 256 hotels, with 46 international brands with as many as 100 hotels on the beach.

Sanya has an airport with flights to most

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

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NEWS

ATLANTIS, THE PALM INTRODUCES MEMBER’S PROGRAMME FOR GUESTS Become a member of one of Dubai’s most popular destination resorts today. As a member of Atlantis, The Palm you can enjoy 10% off all room bookings from now until 23 December 2017. Signing up is quick and easy with an online registration that does not cost you anything. At Atlantis, guests member are offered special rates.

Make exciting plans What are your Dubai holiday plans this year? Winter or summer, relaxing or adventure-packed, we have something for everyone at our world class resort. All guests enjoy complementary unlimited access to the Aquaventure Waterpark and the Lost Chambers Aquarium during Aquaventure Waterparks Heart Pumping Tower of Poseidon, Atlantis - the Palm

their stay, as well as free Wi-Fi access.

by T NH DESK

AWARDS GALORE FOR NUSA DUA BEACH HOTEL & SPA AT THE 7TH ASIAN LIFESTYLE TOURISM AWARDS 2017 PLAZA PREMIUM GROUP AND SATS JOINTLY WIN LOUNGE CONTRACT WITH SINGAPORE CHANGI AIRPORT

Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa has been recognized as the “Outstanding Beach Resort Destination in Asia”, “Best Spa Resort Destination in Indonesia” and “Best Wedding Destination in Indonesia” at The 7th Asian Lifestyle Tourism Awards 2017.

The Gala Ceremony was held on August 21st at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. The Asian Lifestyle Tourism Awards

Plaza Premium Group and SATS join forces to provide independent air-

2017 is supported and partnered by 24 Asian Tourism Min-

port lounge services to all travellers in the New Terminal 4 of Changi Air-

istries with the objective to promote Lifestyle Tourism per-

port.

spectives in the Asian region.

Plaza Premium Group (the Group), the pioneer and industry leader in provid-

“It is an absolute honour to receive these awards and it

ing Premium Airport Services as well as running the largest independent airport

certainly is a measure of the dedication and hard work of the

lounge network around the world, is pleased to announce that its group member

wonderful staff of the Resort.” said Jamal Hussain, the Gen-

Plaza Premium Lounge Investment China Limited has been awarded an airport

eral Manager of Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa.

lounge contract in partnership with SATS Ltd. (SATS)’s wholly-owned subsidiary SATS Airport Services Pte Ltd by Changi Airport Group (CAG). Both partners are to jointly design, build, operate and manage a brand new lounge named Blossom – SATS & Plaza Premium Lounge (Blossom Lounge).

34

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

by TNH DESK

The Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa is the pioneer of luxury accommodation within the Nusa Dua area.

by TNH DESK

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NEWS

ST. PETERSBURG APPOINTS SALVIA PROMOTERS AS ITS TOURISM OFFICE IN INDIA One of Europe’s most historic cities, the alluring St. Petersburg, in Russia, emerged as the ground zero to celebrate 70 years of Indo-Russian diplomatic relations earlier this year in June.

India established its first diplomatic mission a week before it formally achieved independence on August 15, 1947.

Now as India, the world’s biggest democracy, celebrates its 70 years of independence, the de facto cultural capital of Russia, St. Petersburg has come calling on India, establishing its

Peterhof Palace, St. Petersburg

first tourism representation office in India, home to 17 per cent of global

Furthermore, he said that the deci-

to represent as Visit St. Petersburg’s

population and the fastest growing

sion to appoint Salvia Promoters as

tourism office in India is the culmination

economy amongst the world’s top ten.

Visit St. Petersburg’s official partner in

of his love affair with Russia that started

Visit St. Petersburg, the official

India is well thought out and strategic

with his first visit to the country about

tourism body of the city, has appointed

as ‘Salvia’ as a brand in India is syn-

30 years ago.

Salvia Promoters as its official partner

onymous with travel and tourism pro-

in India mandated with developing the

motion to Russia.

“Indian travellers are yet to discover the former seat of Russian empire, its

fast growing India’s outbound tourism

“Salvia has extensively worked with

grandiose architecture, the majestic

market in order to boost visits of Indian

Russia and its various regional tourism

history of the royals of the past and

tourist to the historic city of St. Peters-

boards like ourselves handling Russian

their finely preserved historical foot-

burg.

Visa Facilitation Centre in the past and

prints in The Peter and Paul Fortress,

promoting Russian tourism interest

the amazing royal art collections at the

“India is the fastest growing economy in

top

over the last one and half decades

Hermitage, the Peterhof Palace, the

economies. It has emerged as one of

the

world

amongst

the

through various tourism development

specimen of some of the most incredi-

the fastest growing tourism source mar-

platforms and road shows. We have

ble feat of Russian engineering like the

kets in the world with year-on-year an-

had wonderful experience of working

century old river bridges on Neva that

nual growth hovering at around 11 per

with Salvia in the past and are confi-

open every night to allow the big cargo

cent in the last few years. Besides, the

dent that they will deliver the best for

vessel to pass and the breathtakingly

UNWTO projects India to be a 50 mil-

us. Mr Prashant Chaudhary’s vast ex-

beautiful Summer white nights. These

lion outbound travel market by 2020.

perience and tremendous market reach

are but a very small slice of what St.

And most importantly, our two countries

in India, as well as his exclusive Russ-

Petersburg has to offer. Besides, the

are time-tested all-weather friends and

ian focus and expertise makes him the

city offers one of Europe’s most vibrant

it is important today that we further en-

best candidate who could deliver on

nightlife, the finest of authentic Russian

hance and improve people-to-people

our expectation from the Indian mar-

and international cuisines and not to

interaction between our two countries,”

ket,” Mushkarev said.

forget the best of shopping opportuni-

said, Andrey Mushkarev, Chairman of

Speaking on the appointment of

ties in the city. We are confident posi-

Committee of Tourism Development of

Salvia Promoters as Visit St. Peters-

tioning St. Petersburg amongst the

St. Petersburg, while sharing his views

burg’s official tourism partner in India,

most sought-after destination for the In-

on opening the new tourism office in

Prashant Chaudhary, Partner, Salvia

dian travellers.”

India.

Promoters, said that the responsibility

by T NH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

35

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BITE CORNER

Indulge in Awadhi Cuisine @ The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, Delhi v B PREM KUMAR Y

‘Dilli 32’ is an Indian speciality restaurant located in The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, Delhi. Recently, I went there to have dinner. The restaurant has an interesting and extensive menu, offerings many options for a gourmet experience. This restaurant is located at the third floor of the elite hotel. It is an ideal dining place for people who love to indulge in Awadhi delicacies. Awadhi cuisine (a cuisine native to Awadh region of the state of Uttar Pradesh) is known for its unique deliciousness. Awadhi cuisine includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

The meal that included both vegetarians and nonvegetarians was very eyecatching and delectable.

The quality of food was also very good. The restaurant has good seating capacity, spacious and cozy arrangement which make your dining experience an exciting one.

Other then the quality of the food, service was quite appreciable. Waiters serving the food were prompt, caring and always

ready to cater to your desire and preference.

Chef De Cuisine, Ashwani Kumar Singh was very generous in speaking Assorted Indian Breads about the food I was served and explained their ingredients and recipes.

He is an expert of the North-Indian regional delicacies.

Veg Kebab Platter with Palak ki Ashrafiyan, Makkai Akhrot ki Seekh and Paneer Tikka

The Menu & Dishes The menu offers a wide variety of mouth-watering starters. I had the GolGappa, starters’ palate with Chowk ki Tikki, Murgh Seekh Kebab and Shahi Galawat ke Kebab. They were mouthwatering. The main course consisted Chatpati Macchli, Lasooni Palak and Nehari Gosht served with assorted breads. The ‘Dal Dilli 32’ of the menu is just divine for vegetarians. The meal was followed by delicious desserts including Badam ka Halwa and Pan Kulfi.

Verdict: Whether you are with family or friends, you will appreciate your dining experience at the restaurant.

Nehari gosht

36

Dilli32, Indian Speciality Restaurant

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

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NEWS

Emaar Hospitality Group strengthens Lifestyle Dining portfolio with September opening of ‘Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera’ 3rd outlet under Lifestyle Dining also marks first Sean Connolly restaurant in the Middle East.

Emaar Hospitality Group is welcoming a brand-new restaurant concept to the Middle East with the opening in September of ‘Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera.’

Managed by Emaar Hospitality

joins the league of At.mosphere, Burj Khalifa, and La Serre Bistro

Group’s Lifestyle Dining division,

& Boulangerie in Vida Down-

the signature restaurant marks

town.

the regional debut of world-

‘Sean Connolly at Dubai

nary experiences in an ambi-

140 al fresco.

renowned chef Sean Connolly,

Opera’ stands out for its location

ence of camaraderie, informality

who is a household name in the

in Dubai Opera, the definitive in-

and down-to-earth simplicity.

southern hemisphere and has

ternational destination for per-

won over legions of culinary en-

forming arts and world-class

perience supported by efficient

Dubai Opera serves steak and

thusiasts around the world

entertainment productions, in

friendly staff, who are passion-

seafood, each dish a celebration

through his popular TV series

Downtown Dubai. His epony-

ate about delivering consistent

of Connolly’s passion for cooking

telecast in 35 nations. It is the

mous outlet is underpinned by

personalised service, ‘Sean Con-

and highlighted by his 25 years

third operational outlet under

Sean Connolly’s trademark style

nolly at Dubai Opera’ can seat

of industry experience.

the Lifestyle Dining division, and

of delivering exceptional culi-

339 including 199 inside and

Elegantly designed in coastal brasserie style, the contempo-

Assuring a product-driven ex-

rary standalone restaurant in

by TNH DESK

Puducherry set to ride high on development The erstwhile French colony has interesting plans to develop beach resorts and light up heritage monuments.

Consulate to host mega festivals like Bonjour India and International Sailing Regatta.

Besides, there will be Food Festivals, Beach Festivals, Classical Dance and Music Festi-

The spiritual getaway of Puducherry is all

vals. Flight operations will restart sometime

set to undergo a major transformation in the

in July, this year.” The former French colony

sphere of wellness.

will also have cultural events every week-

R Mounissamy, Director of Tourism, Government of Puducherry commented, “We are

end on Beach Road.

Based on the Swadesh Darshan scheme of

joining hands with the health department to

the Union Ministry of Tourism, the depart-

come up with a road map to make

ment of tourism, Puducherry is readying to

Puducherry into a state of wellness and

develop new beaches including Dubrayapet,

tion drive on beaches at a cost of `27 crore.

bolster the wellness activities like yoga,

Ariamedu, Chinna Veerampattinam, Chun-

We are also developing beaches on Island

Ayurveda and health therapies. We are

nambar, Nallavadu, Narambai, Manapet and

Numbers 3 and 5 in Yanam.”

working in close association with French

Kalapet into new tourist destinations.

Mounissamy said, “There will be beautifica-

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

37

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MICE NEWS

DUBAI BUSINESS EVENTS

GATHERS MOMENTUM AFTER STRONG H1

Steen Jakobsen DBE Director

Business events secured in the first half of 2017 set to attract over 51,000 delegates from around the world with an expected economic impact of AED 375 million.

Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city’s of-

20 million visitors each year by 2020.”

ficial convention bureau, has reported strong

In the first six months, Dubai Business

results for the first half of 2017, with 97 bids

Events won a total of 97 pitches to host busi-

submitted to host business events being suc-

ness events in the city, and is currently await-

cessfully awarded to the city. The events se-

ing verdict on 97 more that have been

cured since January, including conferences,

submitted. Key wins include: Baby Care An-

exhibitions, meetings and incentive trips,are

nual Incentive (2018), World Conference on

poised to attract over 51,636 delegates from

Desalination and Water Re-Use (2019), and

around the world, resulting in an expected

Congress of the International Association for

economic impact of approximately AED 375

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied

million.

Professions (2022).

Issam AbdulRahim Kazim Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation forTourism Marketing and Commerce

Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of

Dubai Business Events has also ramped

Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Com-

up efforts to highlight the city’s business

ness Events, said: “We’ve had a stellar start

merce Marketing, said: “Dubai has grown

events offering to international audiences.

to the year, and are well on our way to

tremendously to become a leading destina-

DBE representatives have attended over 50

achieving our targets set for 2017. As we

tion for international business events. We

trade events in the first half of the year, inter-

continue to work towards further strengthen-

recognise the significance of the business

acting with over 4,500 business events buy-

ing Dubai’s reputation of being a premier

events industry, and acknowledge the vari-

ers and planners. The bureau has also

host destination for business events, we

ous growth facets each event brings to the

facilitated a total of 16 site inspections with

have a steady pipeline of initiatives planned

city. Not only do they accelerate our journey

38 clients, and hosted 144 buyers from

for the year ahead. We are also focusing on

towards becoming a knowledge-sharing

around the world as part of four in-depth

expanding our network and reach globally,

economy, but business events are also major

Dubai study missions.

enabling businesses, event buyers and plan-

contributors towards our goal of welcoming

38

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

Steen Jakobsen, Director of Dubai Busi-

ners to benefit from our expertise.” by T NH DESK

September 2017--final_Layout 1 9/5/2017 1:41 PM Page 39

NEWS

IHG Achieves“2017 Aon Global Best Employer” Accreditation by Aon Hewitt Hotel group received“2017 Aon Best Employer” accreditation in 46 countries, including India IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group),one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced its “Aon Global Best Employer” accreditation by Aon Hewitt. The acclaimed accolade comes in the Deborah Woollard company’s first year of Vice President, Human Resources, Asia, Middle East and Africa, IHG participation in the global survey and is complemented by country-level accreditation in 46 out of the 64 countries assessed by the professional services firm, representing 97 percent of its workforce. The accreditation is part of the “Aon Best Employers” programme which evaluates an employer’s effectiveness in creating a workplace environment that engages and enables its people to deliver competitive advantage. Assessment is done from survey data collected directly from colleagues based on four indices: Engagement, Leadership, Performance Culture and Employer Brand.

IHG participated in the global survey for the first time this year, contributing more than 126,000 responses from colleaguesaround the world. The survey results were then benchmarked amongst the industry by Aon Hewitt to determine whether it qualifies for the “Aon Best Employer” accreditation.

Deborah Woollard, Vice President, Human Resources, Asia, Middle East and Africa, IHG, said: “At IHG we always say our brands represent our promises to our guests, but it is our people who deliver on those promises. And we are absolutely committed to helping our colleagues grow into their full potential. It is this commitment that has earned us the trust and loyalty of our people and being named “Aon Global Best Employer” in the industry is a huge testament to that. Achieving the “Aon Best Employer” status in so many counties in which we operate in our first year of participation is also a great achievementand we will continue to invest in our people and towards building a great workplace culture across both our corporate offices and our hotels.”

by TNH DESK

Mandarin Oriental Canouan

MANDARIN ORIENTAL TO MANAGE CARIBBEAN RESORT ON CANOUAN ISLAND IN SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

M

andarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced that it will rebrand and manage a luxury hotel, currently operating on Canouan island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,

from 1November 2017. Mandarin Oriental, Canouan will be the Group’s first property in the Caribbean.

The exclusive resort is expansive while being intimate and secluded, nestled on the powder white sands of Canouan Island which is only five square miles in total. The whole island is dedicated to leisure pursuits including sailing, kayaking, diving, fishing, tennis and hiking, as well as golf at an 18-hole Jim Fazio-designed golf course. The hotel comprises 26 suites and 12three to four bedroom villas. All suites and villas have full ocean views, and each villa comes with a large private pool, just a few steps away from the ocean. A variety of restaurants and bars provide a range of cuisines and al fresco dining and the property also features an outdoor infinity pool, a spa and health club, with two overwater treatment cabanas accessible by boat.

The Group will also brand and manage a portfolio of new Residences at Mandarin Oriental, to be located near the hotel and scheduled to be available in 2020.

“We are delighted to be introducing the Mandarin Oriental brand to the Caribbean, and to be bringing the Group’s legendary service and quality standards to the beautiful island of Canouan,” said James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. “We look forward to introducing guests to what we believe will become the Carribean’s most exclusive luxury getaway,” he added.

by T NH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

39

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DIPLOMAT CORNER

Dominican Republic: a nature’s gem in the Caribbean The second largest and the most diverse Caribbean country, the Dominican Republic is an ideal destination for tourists from across the world. With its astounding nature, intriguing history and rich culture, and most importantly, its warm and hospitable people, the country is a popular international tourist destination. In an exclusive interview to TnH, H.E. HANS DANNENBERG CASTELLANOS, Ambassador of The Dominican Republic to India talks about uniqueness and other aspects of his country as a popular tourist destination.

v B PREM KUMAR

Q

Y

How important is the tourism sector for the Dominican Republic's economy?

Tourism industry is the biggest industry in our country. In the last 15-20 years, the tourism industry has emerged as the main economic driver in our country. We have received 6.5 million international tourists till now this year and we hope our tourist arrivals will reach 7 million by the end of this year. In terms of the number of tourist arrivals, we are the second biggest tourist destination after Mexico in the region.

Q

Tell us about the tourism opportunities in the Dominican Republic.

The Dominican Republic has three main tourist destinations: Punta Cana in the

40

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

"The most important thing that makes us different from the rest of the Caribbean is our people, who are very friendly, hospitable and spontaneous."

September 2017--final_Layout 1 9/5/2017 1:39 PM Page 41

DIPLOMAT CORNER East Coast of the Island, Puerto Plata in the North Coast of the Island and Santo Domingo. Santo Domingo, a historical city is the capital and largest city in the Dominican Republic. Besides being the favorite destination for nature lovers, the city has some great historical monuments. The first seat of the Spanish colonial rule in the New World, Santo Domingo boasts of being the site of the first university, the first cathedral, the first castle, the first monastery, and the first fortress in the New World. Located in the easternmost part of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is a popular resort town known for its beautiful beaches facing both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Famous for its resorts, Puerto Plata, an important trading port in the country, is home to the only aerial tramway in the Caribbean nations.

Besides beaches, mountains and historical sites, we are also famous for our golf courses. We have one of the biggest number of golf courses in the Caribbean region including some award winning golf courses. The most important thing that makes us different from the rest of the Caribbean is our people, who are very friendly, hospitable and spontaneous. The Dominican Republic is famous for its vibrant culture and popular music such as Merengue and Bachata. It is our people that distinguish us from other Caribbean countries.

Q

How important is India for the Dominican Republic as a tourist market?

We are trying to increase the number of tourists from India to our country, but I understand the distance between the two countries does not help, and the fact that India has many neighboring countries with beautiful beaches also discourages Indians to travel to long-haul destinations such as the Dominican Republic for beach holiday experiences. Indian tourists pre-

fer to visit countries within its neighborhood such as Thailand, Maldives and Sri Lanka. However, we have big Indian diasporas in Canada as well as in the United States that do travel often to the Dominican Republic. Since we opened our embassy in India 12 years ago, the number of Indian arrivals to the Dominican Republic has been increasing. Then we used to receive meager 100 Indians; now more than 2000 Indians including NRIs from the US and Canada are visiting

Punta Cana

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

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September 2017--final_Layout 1 9/5/2017 1:39 PM Page 42

DIPLOMAT CORNER

National Palace in Santo Domingo

the Dominican Republic annually. We hope more and more Indian tourists will visit our country in future.

Q

How simple is visa process for Indians?

We have eliminated requirement of visa for those Indian nationals who hold residency or multi-entry visa of Canada or the US. Indians who live in Canada or in the US or have multi-entry visa of either country can travel to the Dominican Republic without visa. We have many Indians coming to our country and they also bring families and friends from India. We have facilitated visa for Indians planning to our country. Now Indians holding multiple entry visa of the UK, the US or Schengen don't need visa to come to the Dominican Republic. Those Indians who don't have such visa can apply to our embassy in New Delhi, and we will issue visa to them within 48 hours. If you are travelling for tourist purpose, you need to furnish your hotel reservation details along with visa application. In other cases, you need to provide the invitation you have received from the Dominican Republic.

Q

How is the connectivity between these two countries?

I think connectivity has improved a lot.

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TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

Earlier Indians had to fly via the US or Europe to go to the region; now they have new ways to go there. You have the option to go through Istanbul, Dubai, Moscow, Doha or Ethiopia. I hope Air India will soon start flying directly to the region without going to the US. I think it will eventually happen.

Q

What are the key international source markets for the Dominican Republic?

Our key source markets are Canada, US, Spain, UK and Italy but we are diversifying our markets as we realize that we cannot depend on one region or country to sustain our tourism industry because if we rely on one market and there is a crisis in that market, our tourism arrivals will be affected adversely. We have strengthened our position in Latin and north American markets. Now we are trying to get to Chinese market. We are also looking forward to welcoming more and more Indian tourists as they travel with their families and are high spenders.

Q

How do you see India as a tourist destination?

We appreciate Indian Government's decision to include our country under its evisa scheme that will definitely improve people-to-people contact and tourism ex-

change between the two countries.

Tourism industry is one of the important sectors with potential to eliminate poverty and create new job opportunities for people. It can create economic opportunities in remote areas. I think India should continue to work for more and more tourist arrivals. It must improve its infrastructure such as roads, airports and civic amenities. Tourists must get first impression in their first visit. Infrastructure around monuments should be improved.

We want India to open its embassy in the Dominican Republic to facilitate people to people contact between the two countries.

Q

What are the places you like in India? what about Indian food?

I have visited and seen a lot of Indian places. Leh, Sikkim, Srinagar and the North Eastern Part of India are my favorite places in India. I love Himalayas. I also like Kerala but it is very similar to our country. I like Chandigarh, Amritsar and its Golden Temple. Among the Indian foods, I like Murg Malai Tikka and Paneer Tikka.

September 2017--final_Layout 1 9/5/2017 1:59 PM Page 43

NEWS

BOLSTERING THE INFRASTRUCTURE OF PILGRIM POINTS Jharkhand Tourism is going all out to transform the state into a famed pilgrim destination and offer a push to its MICE destinations.

make the state a popular pilgrim destination.

Dr. Alok Prasad, Deputy General Manager, Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation Limited commented, “We have developed

The biodiversity hotspot of

a novel website- www.jharkhand-

Jharkhand is stepping up its

tourism.gov.in in order to facilitate

tourism infrastructure with a view

tourists to explore and reserve

to pull a large chunk of pilgrim

hotels online, avail of tour pack-

tourists for the forthcoming festive

ages, discover new tourist re-

occasions in the state. In its latest

treats and provide feedback to us.

initiative, Jharkhand Tourism De-

We intend to devise more online

velopment Corporation has devel-

facilities to facilitate tourism in the

oped several new initiatives to

state.�

by T NH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

43

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FESTIVALS AROUND THE WORLD

Popular festivals around the world in October Upcoming month brings a lot of festivity with many colorful and music festivals for a traveller. There are many festivals happening around the world like Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (in US) and Diwali (in India). Here are some of the popular festivals / carnivals which a traveller must witness!

October 7-15, 2017 Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a yearly festival of hot air balloons that takes place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA during early October. It is a nine-day event, and feature 500 balloons each year. The event is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world.

The Balloon Fiesta began in 1972 as the highlight of a 50th birthday celebration for 770 KOB Radio. For nine days during the first full week of October, hundreds of colorful balloons float above the city each morning as dawn breaks over the Sandia Mountains. It's no wonder this visual feast is said to be the world's most photographed event.

Nearly 750,000 visitors attend the Albuquerque, New Mexico hot air balloon festival each year.

October 12-15, 2017 Location: New York City, New York, United States

New York City Wine & Food Festival NYCWFF was born back in 2007 as a one-night event called SWEET. The following year, the festival’s founder and director, Lee Brian Schrager, decided to take the event to the next level, launching what is now the ‘New York City Wine and Food Festival’. NYCWFF is considered the largest food and wine festival in NYC! With more than 100 events, we are widely recognized for tastings in celebration of America’s favorite foods, intimate dinners with world-renowned chefs, late night parties, hands-on classes, educational seminars, coveted wine tastings and more. We take great pride in offering 50,000 passionate gourmands and aficionados something for every palate and budget. Enjoy four days each fall at the New York City Wine and Food Festival, celebrity chefs, culinary giants, mixologists, vintners and foodies unite to eat, drink and end world hunger.

October 18 - 22, 2017 Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam Dance Event The Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) is the leading electronic music platform and the biggest club festival in the world for the whole spectrum of electronic sub-genres. Amsterdam Dance event is a five-day industry and entertainment extravaganza scattered across 115 reputable venues throughout the iconic Netherlands' capital city. The festival boasts some of the biggest names in the international electronic club scene as well as its fair share of up-and-comers and underground artists. ADE takes place in October, meaning it bookends the tourist travel season and shares September’s usually favorable weather, providing attendees with exciting sights and sounds to feast their senses upon. In its entirety, ADE involves an astronomical 450 conference and music events – including over 2,200 DJs. Worldwide club music happenings fuse with industry conferences in Amsterdam’s ultimate festival.

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FESTIVALS AROUND THE WORLD

October 17-21, 2017 Location: India

Diwali An ancient celebration with deeply spiritual roots, this Festival of Lights (Diwali) is technically a tradition with a religious foundation, but that entire are willing to share in the season of abundance are welcome. Thousands of oil lamps, fireworks, lavish feasts, fragrant flowers and colored sand in the form of lotus blossoms adorn India in this annual homecoming that is Diwali. Rama needs to return home, and Hindus everywhere pitch in to help, lighting his path with thousands of oil lamps during the five-day Festival of Lights, or Diwali, to honor the Hindu god. To Westerners this feels like India’s version of Christmas, a time of celebration and unbridled joy.

Like Christmas, it’s technically a religious festival, but it’s open to anyone willing to share in the season of abundance.

October 20 - 28, 2017 Location: Phuket, Thailand

Phuket Vegetarian Festival The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is a colourful event celebrates the Chinese community's belief that abstinence from meat and various stimulants during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar will help them obtain good health and peace of mind. They decided to adhere to a strict vegetarian diet and pray to the Nine Emperor Gods to ensure purification of the mind and body. To everyone's amazement the opera group made a complete recovery. Subsequently, the festival has grown and developed into a spectacular yearly event that is attended by thousands with participants flying in from China and other Asian destinations. The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is a nine day commitment to abstinence and purity, where participants display devotion in truly gruesome fashion.

September 30 - November 26, 2017 Location: Todd Mission, Texas, United States

Texas Renaissance Festival The nation’s largest, most acclaimed Renaissance themed park. Each year, over 500,000 guests pass through the Festival’s gates and enter the magic of New Market Village, an authentically recreated 55 acre 16th century English township located 50 miles northwest of Houston, Texas. Each year, for 9 fun-filled weekends (this year-September 30 to November 26), The Texas Renaissance Festival presents an enchanted world full of Kings and Queens, Lords and Ladies, Knights, Nobles, Fairies, Elves, Pirates, Barbarians and other fanciful interactive characters. Guests will be entertained by a marvelous assortment of unique performers: musicians, magicians, acrobats, jugglers, dancers with over 200 daily performances on over 20 stages throughout the village. Finally, there are foods and drinks from all over the world to please every palate and quench every thirst.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY | SEPTEMBER 2017

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EVENT WATCH

S KAL D ELHI M EET The latest lunch meeting of the Skal International Delhi was held on 23rd August, 2017 at The Park Hotel, New Delhi. On the occasion Yoga expert Acharya Arun Pandala shared his thoughts with Skal members on Yoga, health and wellness. The interaction with Acharya Pandala was followed by a sumptuous lunch.

46

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NEWS

AEROLÍNEAS ARGENTINAS AND ETIHAD AIRWAYS SIGN CODESHARE AGREEMENT Etihad Airways and AerolíneasArgentinas have launched a new codeshare partnership.

Under the agreement, Etihad Airways customersare able to enjoy convenient connections via Rome and Madrid to Buenos Aires (EZE) and onwards to nine other popular Argentinian destinations – Córdoba (COR), Mendoza (MDZ), Rosario (ROS), Iguazú (IGR), Salta (SLA), Mar del Plata (MDQ), Bariloche (BRC), Trelew (REL) and Ushuaia (USH).

In turn, AerolíneasArgentinas guests can have access to Etihad Airways’ network of over 100 destinations from its Abu Dhabi hub via the Italian and Spanish capitals.

Mohammad Al Bulooki, Etihad Airways Executive Vice President Commercial, said: “This codeshare demonstrates the importance of Argentina as a vital travel market for Etihad Airways in Latin America given the growing tourism, cultural and business opportunities that exist between the UAE and Argentina.

“We wish to give travellers flying AerolíneasArgentinas the opportunity to enjoy the acclaimed service and hospitality for which Etihad Airways is renowned throughout the world. This codeshare will make the experience that much easier.”

Diego Garcia, AerolíneasArgentinas Chief Commercial Officer, said: "This is a very good opportunity to consolidate and increase our offer to one of the most important hubs in the Middle East. It also allows us to improve our load factors, optimise the use of the fleet and strengthen the image of AerolíneasArgentinas in the Asian market. We hope that this agreement will also be the gateway for many tourists to visit some of the most attractive landmarks in our country."

Codeshare agreements offer customers countless benefits, such as baggage check-in to their final destination and extra assistance during connections. Members of both airlines’ loyalty programmes – Etihad Guest and Aerolíneas Plus –will soon be able to earn and redeem miles on the codeshare

by TNH DESK flights.

Finnair opens new routes to Lisbon and Stuttgart, increases capacity for popular destinations in Asia, USA and Europe

I

n line with its growth strategy, Finnair is adding two new European routes for its summer 2018 lineup including new non-stop flights to Lisbon and Stuttgart, as well as increases capacity to

Tokyo, Chicago, San Francisco, Bangkok and Delhi. Finnair will also be increasing capacity on several of its popular short-haul destinations during the summer 2018 season.

With over 100 European destinations, Finnair continues to expand its route network. As of June 1, Finnair will fly four weekly flights to Lisbon, Portugal. The flights, offering convenient connections for customers travelling to and from Asia, will be operated on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays with a newly WIFIequipped Airbus aircraft. Finnair is also expanding its presence in the German market, opening a new daily route to Stuttgart, Germany. The new route, which opens April 23, will be Finnair’s sixth destination in Germany.

“Traffic between Europe and Asia continues to grow, and Finnair’s expanding network now offers more choice than ever before for our customers,” says Juha Järvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Finnair. “We are also adding frequencies and capacity to popular Europeans destinations to serve the needs of our growing customer base both in Asia and Europe. Altogether, Finnair will be increasing its total capacity for next summer by 14 percent compared to the previous summer season, including the newly announced route to Nanjing.”

by T NH DESK

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MOVING ON

Chef Santosh Rawat Multi-Property Executive Pastry Chef, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar and JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu Chef Santosh Rawat has recently been elevated to the position of Multi-Property Executive Pastry Chef of JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar and JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu. Chef Santosh brings with him an experience of 16 years with leading luxury and business hotels in India and across various cities internationally. As the Multi-property Executive Pastry Chef, he will oversee the patisserie operations at both the five star hotel properties.

One of the many masterpieces created by Chef Santosh was the first-ever life-sized replica of the beautiful chandelier made entirely from chocolate which was 15 feet in height and made using 450 kgs of chocolate. The man of many innovations has led novel initiatives such as the attempt to set a world record for the longest trail of chocolate eggs during Easter, 2017 and the gallery showcase of 50 designer cakes at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. He has also curated over 40 themed desserts as part of the meetings imagined initiative and 30 edible chocolate arts on canvas.

Vishal Khosla General Manager, Park Regis Goa Park Regis Goa has announced the appointment of Vishal Khosla as the General Manager of Park Regis Goa, a hotel managed by StayWell Hospitality Group. He will be responsible for the overall operations of the hotel in par with the international standards, whilst meeting employees, guests and owner’s expectation. He will be actively involved in short and long-term planning and preparation of the marketing strategies, hotel policies, procedures, relevant legislations and the annual budget.

Khosla brings with him, an experience of over 18 years in hospitality industry. He is proficient in operational management, both nationally and internationally. In India, he has been a part of senior management at The Club Mahindra Resort, Varca Beach, Goa, The Lalit Golf & Spa Resort, Goa, and The Kenilworth Resort & Spa, Goa. He holds a Diploma in Hotel Management. Apart from his work, he is a travel enthusiast and love to explore places abroad.

Morgan Tuckness Corporate Director – Design & Technical Services, Emaar Hospitality Group Emaar Hospitality Group announced the appointment of Morgan Tuckness, who brings extensive expertise in the field of design, architecture and technical services, as its Corporate Director - Design & Technical Services. She will also be mandated with ensuring that all requisite design and technical service standards are executed in accordance with the guidelines to deliver on-brand projects. She will report to Olivier Harnisch, Chief Executive Officer of Emaar Hospitality Group.

Morgan was previously the Director of Development & Construction for Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Latin America with Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation US & Singapore since 2006. Prior to this, she worked as an architect with leading architectural firms in the United States. She holds a degree in Architecture from the University of Oklahoma and is certified from the U.S. Green Building Council as a LEED Accredited Professional.

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MOVING ON

Nihar Mehta Corporate HR Manager, Sarovar Hotels Sarovar Hotels announces the appointment of Nihar Mehta as Corporate HR Manager.

Based out of Sarovar’s corporate office in Gurugram, he will be looking after human resources and manage employee development policies and systems. Prior to joining Sarovar Hotels, Nihar had worked in Ravi Jaipuria Corporation as Manager – HR and has led the Human Resources Department for the Retail Division for J Mart brand of Ravi Jaipuria Corporation. Nihar is a Business Management graduate from Manipal University and holds an MBA from University of Western Australia and a Masters of Human Resource Management from Monash University, Melbourne, both universities being part of prestigious Group of eight universities in Australia.

Liew How Wai Asian chef de cuisine for ‘b Café’, Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru announced the appointment of Liew How Wai to the position of Asian chef de cuisine at their all-day dining, multi-cuisine restaurant, b Café. With diverse experiences across the Asia Pacific region, Liew will bring his dynamic and practical expertise to the city of Bengaluru.

Bringing around two decades of culinary expertise under his belt chef Liew, will lead the Asian kitchen at b Café. His culinary knowledge is drawn by extensive travelling across countries finds its expressions in the diverse flavours and dishes that he will present.

Chef Liew is all set to delight guests by adding a contemporary touch to food preparation, set up and presentation while preserving the authenticity and originality of the dishes.

With Chef Liew at the helm, guests can expect a delectable dining experience that is bound to impress even the most discerning palate.

Debabrata Banerjee Food and Beverage Manager, Alila Diwa Goa Alila Diwa Goa is pleased to announce the appointment of Debabrata Banerjee as the new Food and Beverage Manager. Trained from Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, Trivandrum, Debabrata, worked at Four Seasons, Mumbai in 2008 before joining Taj Palace Hotel, Mumbai in 2014. In his role, Debabrata will oversee the Food and Beverage operations of the restaurants, bar and banquets operations for Alila Diwa Goa with 153 rooms and suites.

Debabrata comes with more than 9 years of experience in the luxury hotel and restaurant space. Previously, he has worked at The Oberoi Hotels in Bengaluru as the Senior Assistant Manager- F&B supervising the day-to-day operations for the hotel. He will introduce a fresh take on dining experiences at Alila Diwa Goa for leisure guests as well as MICE groups. He has had the opportunity to manage VIP delegates around the world.

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NEWS

'MONACO FROM THE HEART OF KASHI'

BY AMIT AGGARWAL CREATED A CULTURAL CONNECT AT LAKME FASHION WEEK WINTER/FESTIVE 2017

M

onaco Tourism brought the incredible collection by fantasy designer Amit Aggarwal at Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2017. The ensembles were a masterly showcase of craftsmanship, style, detailing and embellishments that Amit is renowned for.

Amit Aggarwal said, "I am delighted to partner with Monaco Tourism for our Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2017 showcase. The collection that started its roots in Monaco was interpreted by use of discarded vintage Banarasi saris that have a history but have lost their purpose; in a hope to find them a new life and a new home."

Speaking on the occasion, Rajeev Nangia, India Director, Monaco Government Tourist Bureau said, "Monaco is the epitome of luxury and glamour, and undoubtedly one of the finest tourist destinations' in the world to enjoy the high life. We loved the collection, "Monaco from the Heart of Kashi" exclusively showcased by Amit Aggarwal at Lakme Fashion Week. The style

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and opulence that his collection featured is truly synonymous with, the fashion extravagance that destination Monaco is bestowed with. His collection was truly in line with the mood of magnificent celebrations and weddings, one can picturise at destination Monaco. Luxury comes with a lot of responsibility and sustaining our environment, heritage, art & culture is of prime importance. Practicing sustainability in Monaco is also of prime importance and we appreciate Amit's effort to maintain the years old heritage of, "Banarsi Saris and hand work" in this collection".

Jaspreet Chandok, Head-Fashion, IMG Reliance Ltd said, "We are proud to partner with Monaco Tourism for a third time in a row as we celebrate yet another exciting facet of the destination. The show was a perfect marriage of Amit Aggarwal's sustainable bridal couture with a fantastic wedding destination."

Inspired by the gorgeous destination of Monaco on the French Riviera where the rich and famous rub shoulders, Amit's

bridal couture collection called ‘Monaco from the Heart of Kashi' was a lush story of glamour and style. Drawing his designing thoughts from the art, culture, and architecture of palaces and Opera De Monte Carlo, the motifs, carvings and drapery was cleverly matched with the brocades of Benares.

Taking his designing board further into sustainable couture, Amit worked with the traditional Banaras brocades and saris from around the country. He then brought in his expert techniques of industrial pleating; latticing and inserting recycled polymer strips. Not stopping at his signature detailing, Amit further added zardosi embroidery in dual metal and yarns, included hand pleated tape embellishments along with thread work that was blended with unconventional industrial yarns.

The result was an extraordinary line of gorgeous creations that made show stopping entries on the catwalk. Keeping the colour card rich there was amber, sapphire, ruby, jade and black diamond that glistened with the blinding radiance of gold and silver.

It was a collection that created a brilliant mélange comprising the beauty of Monaco with the blend of traditional Banarsi saris, which presented a new chapter in the fashion trends for the coming season; an unconventional collection, that is very novel for a brides' big day.

When it comes to extreme bridal couture fashion, which can turn the wearer into a showstopper, then Amit Aggarwal's ‘Monaco from the Heart of Kashi' collection presented by Monaco Tourism created the perfect timeless appeal globally.

by TNH DESK

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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