TOURISM INDIA JANUARY 2015

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January 2015 Vol. 16 No. 09 Price: India ` 75 US$ 4.99 GBP 2.99

Five theme based Circuit Kuoni Exit from Tour Operations Airline Profitability & Oil Prices

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Two sides of Tourism Coin: Culture and Shopping

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ultural tourism and Travel for shopping are becoming an important parts of the tourism value chain, it has become a decisive factor at the time of choosing a destination and, in some cases, the primary reason for travel.

According to UNWTO, there is an unique opportunity for tourism and culture stakeholders from all across the world to discuss how to further harness the power of tourism and culture to alleviate poverty, create jobs, protect heritage and promote international understanding, contributing to the post-2015 development agenda. Shopping Tourism has also can contribute to inclusive economic growth, social development and cultural preservation a destination.

Shopping and Culture are two side of a Tourism coin and the main challenge is how policymakers, experts and practitioners in tourism and culture to identify the key challenges and opportunities for stronger cooperation between these highly interlinked areas.

In India our traditional handicrafts, artifacts and handlooms are already have big demands in Travellers souvenir markets. Pashmina shawl and designer jewellery from Kashmir to metal mirror of Aranmula in Kerala and fine tuned embroidery works from Western India to Terracotta and metal sculptures from Eastern India are some of the favorites show pieces to buy. Our Festivals, Costumes and Cuisines are sure shot of cultural aspects to show case to the travelers from around the world which India can easily merged The two main attractions of Tourism are Culture and shopping which will help to market the Brand Incredible India around the world. Already we have done some initiatives in this filed, but still there is lot of space to fill to position our destinations to next level.

Modern travelers are more alert and independent and they prefer experiential travel than cozy and luxury offerings. At the same time many of our state governments are still in their infant stage to identify the shopping and cultural tourism products. Industry stake holders can do more on this regard to encourage our local craftsmen and artists for better performance and creativity to position our country to the next level.

Hope this new year resolution of the Incredible India stake holders will be identify, packaging and marketing new Cultural and shopping products to provide a better experience to each and every traveler, those who visit Incredible India.

Ravisankar K.V.

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January 2015 Vol No. 16 No 09

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India Tourism will launch five theme based- Circuits.

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Enjoy Free Wi-Fi in the sky on Emirates A380s

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Airline Profitability Improves with Falling Oil Prices

www.tourismindiaonline.com

January 2015 Vol. 16 No. 09 Price: India ` 75 US$ 4.99 GBP 2.99

Five theme based Circuit Kuoni Exit from Tour Operations Airline Profitability & Oil Prices

Cover Photograph : A spectacular display of Art and Music from Taiwan Photo couretsy

by Taiwan Tourism

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New Zealand all set to host Cricket World Cup 2015

Nishagandhi Puraskaram for Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam

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Anatara’a Banana Island Resort opens at Doha

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World Islamic Travel Summit 2015 To Debut In Abu Dhabi 13

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inistry of Tourism, Govt of India has set a target to achieve one percent share in global tourism arrivals by 2015.

While speaking at ‘Make in India’ National Workshop on Tourism, Media, and Entertainment in New Delhi Dr Mahesh Sharma Minister of Tour-

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ism said that to achieve this target a multipronged strategy is being worked out. The focus of the ministry is on improving the cleanliness, hospitality and safety aspects of Tourism, he added.

Also the synergy of the three Ministries i.e., Tourism, Culture, and Civil

Aviation will be improved substantially to take tourism to new heights.

Highlighting the aspect of accessibility, the Minister said that good connectivity to tourist destinations is the key factor for improving tourism. The Ministry of Tourism has allotted Rs. 500 crore for

the development of five theme based-circuits i.e., Ganga , Krishna , Buddha , North East and Kerala circuits Tourism Ministry has drawn plans for the development of five important circuits . Elaborating the new initiatives, Dr. Sharma said that a ‘Cruise plan’ will be ready for implementation soon.

Similarly, a comprehensive plan will be prepared with the Ministry of Environment and Forests for promoting wild life tourism.

Dr Sharma said that since Dhabas along the highways are very popular among tourists, the Dhaba owners will be trained to provide hygienic food to tourists and travelers. Similarly, the souvenir industry should be developed to give fillip to local skills and craftsmanship.

Among the steps taken recently, the Government has identified 25 monuments for Adarsh Smarak Campaign, in which they will be developed as

model monuments. The path breaking initiative of E-Ticketing at monuments has already begun with the launch of E-Ticketing at the Taj Mahal at Agra and Humayun’s Tomb at Delhi. The focus will be to promote both foreign as well as domestic tourism.

He urged the leaders in the tourism sector to take bold decisions to improve the Tourism industry.

Dr. Lalit Panwar IAS,

Secretary (Tourism) said that the Ministry is taking several new measures to re-launch tourism and taking India’s rich cultural heritage to all corners of the world. The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharamanwas also present at the workshop.

Many of the Tourism industry stalwarts were attended the workshop.

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Ashwani Lohani

assumes charge as Commissioner

& Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism

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r. Ashwani Lohani has took charge of his new assignment as Commissioner & Managing Director of Madhya

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Pradesh Tourism. He had earlier served as Managing Director of MPSTDC ( June 2006 to December 2009 ) and during this period Madhya Pradesh Tourism bagged the National Tourism Award for ‘Best Tourism Performing State in the Country’ in 2008. Prior to this he was working as the Chief Administrative Officer of the Indian Railway Organisation for Alternate Fuels since December 2013.

Mr. Lohani one of the prominent face of India Tourism has considered

as authority of Indian Heritage Railway .He had earlier worked as Chairman & Managing Director of India Tourism Development Corporation , Director in the Ministry of Tourism Government of India, Director, National Rail Museum, New Delhi , Chief Mechanical Engineer, Northern Railways and Divisional Railway Manager, Delhi. He has earlier been on the board of Andhra Pradesh Tourism and still on the board of Directors of Chattisgarh Tourism.

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ttarakhand a tiny hilly state situated in Northern part of India is rightly called the abode of Gods. From the famous 5 Dhams ie. Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamnotri and Hemkund Sahib. The holy Ganga as well as the Yamuna originate in the mountains of Uttarakhand.

Tourism contributes substantially towards the GDP of the state and the Uttrakhand offers everything besides the above mentioned holy shrines, Haridwar and Rishikesh the famous pilgrimage centres.

Rightly so Uttrakhand is a tourist delight from Adventure Sports like white water rafting on the great rivers to hiking in the Himalayas and scaling the mighty peaks.

It also has the famous wild life sanctuaries - Jim Corbett National Park and Rajaji National park. The state also has popular hill stations like Nainital, Ranikhet, Mussoorie and recently we have added “Tehri� as a new destination which is fast emerging as a hub for water sports activities at the Tehri Lake.

During winters one can enjoy skiing at Auli which is located approximately 250 Km from Rishikesh.

Needless to say that Uttrakhand has it all and added to the fantastic connectivity by Air, Rail

Tourism contributes substantially towards the GDP of the state and the Uttrakhand offers everything besides the above mentioned holy shrines, Haridwar and Rishikesh the famous pilgrimage centres. and Road Uttrakhand is a very convenient destination for all Seasons.

Recently the government has introduced the

winter Char Dham Yatra wherein devotees desiring to visit the holy temples can pay obesiance to the Gods when the deities come to their winter Abode of Joshi Math, Ukhi Math, Mukhba and Kharsali.

In a unique initiative the Government of Uttrakhand represented by The Secretary Tourism Dr. Umakant Panwar and the Hoteliers of Uttrakhand have come to Bangalore to invite the people of Karnataka and the whole of South India to visit Uttrakhand and savour the various gifts of nature which Uttrakhand has in abundance.

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The ceremony took place at Minister’s office at Transport Bhawan, New Delhi.

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r. Girish Shankar, Chairman & Managing Director of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) on behalf of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), handed over a cheque for Rs 3.73 crore to Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Union Tourism Minister recently, towards 5% interim dividend payment to the Government of India for the year 2013-14. Present on the occasion were Secretary - Ministry of Tourism - Dr. Lalit K. Panwar, Director (Commercial & Marketing) Cmde (Retd.)

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tor (Finance) Mr. Trinath Behera along with other Sr. officials of MOT & ITDC. The ceremony took place at Minister’s office at Transport Bhawan, New Delhi.

The decision for the payment of Dividend was taken during ITDC 49th Annual General Meeting held at the Group’s flagship hotel, The Ashok, New Delhi. The Corporation has closed the year with an all round increase in the performance as compared to the previous financial years. The turnover of the corporation has increased by 6.57% to Rs.

470 crore approximately.

The net profit before tax increased by 118% to Rs.11.93 crore while profit after tax increased by 214% to Rs 9.42 crore.

The corporation has also declared a dividend of 5% amounting to Rs. 4.29 crore approximately 45.5% of net profit which is as recommended by the Board in the meeting held earlier last year. The Corporation, besides showing improvement in turnover and profitability, has also shown a significant improvement in the operational efficiency. Further, the turnover of almost all the operational verticals have increased during the year.

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erala’s statewide campaign focused on Responsible Tourism -titled ‘God’s Own Country, People’s Own Tourism’ - was inaugurated

by Mr. Oommen Chandy ,

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Chief Minister of Kerala at the Legislative Assembly complex, Trivandrum recently. The initiative, which is part of Kerala government’s Mission 676, aims to link tour-

ism with the mainstays of rural Kerala including agriculture, traditional trade, village lifestyles and art forms. It will be implemented through 112 selected local self

government groups and as a participatory project is expected to strengthen both tourism and the lives of the people touched by it.

The Chief Minister released the logo of the new promotional campaign by handed it over to Mr. A P Anil Kumar ,Tourism Minister ,Kerala Mr. Chandy said Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s praise for Kerala tourism at the recent Chief Ministers’ meeting symbolised recognition for state tourism at the national level.

“The Prime Minister has shown special interest in the developing possibilities of Kerala Tourism. The project under the Kerala Government’s Mission 676 will be of benefit to the Tourism industry as well as the public,” he added.

Even though Kerala Tourism has conducted several campaigns at the national and international level to promote RT, this is first of its kind in the state, said Mr. A P Anil Kumar. He also pointed out that an awareness campaign will be launched next week to inform the people on the possibilities of tourism possibilities. “Various television channels and cinema theatres will serve as a platform for the ‘God’s Own Country, People’s Own Tourism’ campaign,” he added.

“The Prime Minister has shown special interest in the developing possibilities of Kerala Tourism.

The project under the Kerala Government’s Mission 676 will be of benefit to the Tourism industry as well as the public,”

Three films, produced by the Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS), the nodal agency for Responsible Tourism in the state, were screened at the function.

The films conceived by Stark Communications and directed by the renowned filmmaker Anwar Rasheed premiered at the

special session of World Travel Mart (WTM) held at London .

The films ‘Guide’, ‘Farmer’, ‘Chefs’ focuses on the rural lives of Kerala and shows how Responsible Tourism has helped the local people, who have excelled as tourist

guides, and organic farmers, and culinary experts, market their products to the tourists respectively.

Tourism Secretary Mr. G .Kamala Vardhana Rao IAS, Kerala Tourism Director Mr. P I Sheikh Pareeth IAS and KITTS Director Dr Rajashree Ajith were present on the occasion.

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ERALA tourism is looking forward to the second edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB) to recoup the loss suffered due to bird flu and flawed liquor policy. The 108-day contemporary art festival, which started on Friday, is arguably India’s biggest congregation of art and artists and expected to bring more people interested in art and culture tourism under one platform. Most of the venues are abandoned spice warehouses and trading centres for tea. This year, the biennale’s theme centres very much on Kochi and Muziris, which

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were important trading centers of spices. “So far, India has been very poor in marketing its art and culture market. Venice, Liverpool and Sydney are known to receive millions of visitors and rake in lot of money. Let us hope that we make gains to offset the loss suffered due to bird flu and other problems,” Sanjeev Nair of Team Hospitality said.

Major tourist destinations like Kovalam are short by 40-50% tourists this season and the impact on the economy could be huge. House boat tourism in Allepey has almost touched nil due to the bird flu alert issued by

various governments to their people. “Weekend arrivals of domestic tourists in Wayanad and Munnar have declined due to the liquor policy. Liquor is not available on Sunday as it has been made a dry

the biennale was visited by four lakh visitors and KMB Foundation expects it to increase this time due to the visibility and success of the first, Boney Thomas, research coordinator of the KMB Foundation said. KMB sources estimate more than eight lakh people to visit the sites as part of the biennale. The three-month event will use heritage buildings and other structures to regenerate the region’s history and open its culture to the world.

A fresh coat of paint,

gions and culture came to the Indian sub-continent.

Judaism, Christianity and Islam came to India through Muziris. Jainism and Buddhism flourished near the ancient trade centre. Chinese and the

acrylics splashed across walls and strange graffiti across street walls have brought a fresh lease of life to an old Jewish settlement that was once known as the terminal market for spices across the globe. “Kochi and Muziris were the two windows to the world through which trade, reli-

Arabs had their colonies in both ports. We adopted Kochi-Muziris as the central themes because of the universal outlook of the people and place,” Boney added. The biennale will also feature cultural programmes, cinema, seminars and lectures, besides partner projects and collaterals.

day as part of the new liquor policy which envisages complete prohibition in ten years. Conferences and business tours have also declined,” he added. The first edition of

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The men behind the biennale: Co-founders Riyas Komu and Bose Krishnamachari with curator Jitish Kallat (centre) in Kochi.

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he Nishagandhi Puraskaram Instituted by the Department of Tourism , Government of Kerala has been bestowed on celebrated Bharatanatyam exponent Dr Padma Subrahmanyam for her contribution to Indian classical dance.

The annual Nishagandhi Puraskaram honours eminent personalities in the fields of dance and music in India. The award carries a purse of Rs 150,000, citation and a statuette.

Dr Padma Subrahmanyam has performed

at various prestigious venues and festivals across the globe known for her distinctive style and versatility. She is also known for her meticulous research into Indian classical dances. She is the recipient of several awards and honours, including the Padma Shri in 1981 and the Padma Bhushan in 2003.

“Dr Padma Subrahmanyanm is without doubt one of the finest exponents of Bharatanatyam in the country and has played a significant role in reinvigorating the dance

form across the world and her influence on generations of young people to learn and sustain our rich classical traditions is phenomenal,” said Mr.A P Anilkumar, Kerala Tourism Minister while announcing the award. “She is also responsible for developing new techniques to expand the vocabulary of Bharatanayam beyond the scope of its traditional tenets,” he added.

“Dr Padma Subrahmanyam has made remarkable contributions to the Indian classical dance traditions,” and Kerala

Tourism is proud to honour such contributions that enrich the cultural heritage of our country,” sai d Mr.P I Sheikh Pareeth IAS, Kerala Tourism Director .

The Nishagandhi Puraskaram is presented as part of the annual Nishagandhi Festival organised by the state Department of Tourism every year in Thiruvananthapuram.

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A p p o i n t m e n t s

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r. Sandeep Kapur has been promoted as Chief Operating Officer of Creative Travel New Delhi. Mr. Sandeep has over two and half decades of industry experience and has been elevated to this new role to manage the company’s growth and expansion strategies.

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r. Sunil Hasija has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer of ‘Signature Tours by Creative Travel’, outbound travel division of New Delhi based Creative Travel. Recently Signature Tours has also been appointed as the India GSA for Insight Vacations, the global luxury travel specialist.

r. Vishal Gupta has been appointed as General Manager for Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum, a Five star property managed by hospitality major Hilton Worldwide situated near Government Secretariat, Trivandru. Mr. Vishal reports to Daniel Welk, Vice President, Operations - India, Hilton Worldwide.

Mr. Vishal has 14 years of experience in the lodging industry having worked primarily with Marriott International Inc. in India, the United States and the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Most recently he was Director of National Sales - Delhi NCR, overlooking Travel Trade, MICE & Corporate segments for Marriott International Inc. in India. Prior to that he has held several positions in Sales and Food & Beverage with Greenbelt Marriott and College Park Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, USA; Marriott St. Kitts Resort & Royal Beach Casino, Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis; Renaissance Goa Resort, Goa, India; Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, Baltimore, USA; and Hotel Intercontinental, Sydney, Australia.

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Kuoani, one of the top five travel companies in the world, also India’s leading Travel brand’s parent arm has decided to exits from their tour operation business across the globe.

This includes group’s tour operating interests in Switzerland, Benelux, Hong Kong/China, India and Scandinavia.

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uoani, one of the top five travel companies in the world, also India’s leading Travel brand’s parent arm has decided to exits from their tour operation business across the globe. This includes group’s tour operating interests in Switzerland, Benelux, Hong Kong/China, India and Scandinavia.

In its new set-up, Kuoni Group will be structured into three divisions, Global Travel Distribution (GTD), Global Travel Services (GTS) and VFS Global which are well placed to benefit in particular from the rapidly increasing number of Asian travellers. These core businesses benefit from leading global positions and exposure to high growth markets. They already represent around 60% of Kuoni’s current consolidated turnover. Kuoni’s

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position as a unique service provider with a strong focus on Asia offers attractive opportunities to further drive growth and profitability by leveraging the Group’s scale, exploiting cross-selling opportunities and developing more new business.

Kuoni decided to focus the company’s activities on its core business

as a service provider to the global travel industry and to governments.

In particular, Kuoni will focus on markets with attractive, long-term growth potential such as Asia, the Middle East and Africa. The travel market environment is likely to remain fast-changing, requiring travel companies to choose distinct development priorities. Kuoni

has therefore decided to focus its resources and to divest its tour operating activities. On a pro-forma basis, the new Kuoni Group employs approximately 8 000 people and generated a turnover of CHF 3.4 billion in 2014. Post-divestment, as a unique and clearly focused company, Kuoni Group aspires to become a leading service provider to the global travel industry and to grow significantly faster than the travel market as a whole.

All three divisions Global Travel Distribution (GTD, previously FIT) is an industry pioneer and a highly experienced, leading global B2B wholesaler and provider of hotel accommodation and land services. It sells approximately 38 000 room nights per day online. Around 43% of its

turnover is sourced from fast-growing Asia/Pacific, the Middle East and Africa markets.

The reduced portfolio of activities will enable Kuoni – re-branded as Kuoni Group - to focus on three key strategic initiatives to accelerate growth as investment of additional resources in Asia, the Middle East and Africa by leveraging its existing footprint and expanding its capabilities across all divisions. Kuoni Group will focus on enhancing its customer service and increasing efficiency by developing new technology platforms and further digitalising its businesses.

The company aims to selectively expand its service offering and provide its existing services to a wider range of customer segments by utilising its crossselling potential.

Kuoni’s tour operating activities offer outbound leisure travel from European and Asian source markets including a variety of tailor-made, individual and packaged holidays, predominantly to local end-consumers. Kuoni

operates under a range of premium and specialist brands and is well known and trusted due to its long-standing experience and significant expertise in the travel sector. Kuoni ranks among the top five tour operators in Europe and has a well-established presence in Hong Kong and India. In spite of this position, Kuoni’s outbound business faces increasing challenges from changing market conditions. In consideration of the fundamental changes in the industry and the unique position of Kuoni Group as a leading service provider to the global travel industry, the Board of Directors and Group Executive Board have decided to focus the company’s resources on those core activities in which Kuoni already enjoys a leading market position with attractive prospects.

Kuoni has therefore decided to exit the tour operating businesses. Following the decision to refocus Kuoni’s activities, responsibilities within the company’s Group Executive Board have been adjusted with immediate effect as follows: Peter Meier (CEO), Thomas Peyer (CFO), Ivan Walter (Global Travel Distribution), Rolf Schafroth (Global Travel Services) and Zubin Karkaria (VFS Global). In addition, Rolf Schafroth will continue to lead Kuoni’s outbound activities.

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ir India’s uplift in domestic market has gone up by 15% from 30,313 passengers a day in December 2013 to 35,100 passengers a day in the first half of December 2014. Similarly on a network basis its uplift has gone up by nearly 12% from 45,100 passengers a day to 50,500 passengers a day. Along with its subsidiary Air IndiaExpress, Air India carried 58,160 passengers in first half of December 2014 as against 53,720 last year, a

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growth of 8%. Its average passenger revenue was Rs.52.70 cr. a day inclusive of Air India Express during the first half of December 2014. The average passenger load factor on its domestic network was 85.2% and on the entire network was 75.0% and in line with the Turnaround Plan. Its yield on the domestic network wasRs.6.92 per ton pkm. (passenger km). The subsidiary Air India Express also averaged passenger load factor of 81.5%.

Air India also operated 403 flights a day out of which 267 were on the domestic network.

Certain international routes operated with the B787 aircraft had passenger load factors of over 80% including London, Australia, Bangkok, Sin-

gapore and Dubai etc. On domestic sectors Kolkata and Bangalore showed high load factors ranging from 86 to 92%.

Air India is planning to ramp up capacity on the domestic sector by inducting one B747, one B777-200LR and one B777-300ER to clear the holiday rush. In addition, it is also planningto induct one additional B787 on the domestic route.

Air India is also planning to induct five new A320 aircraft on lease in its fleet from February 2015 onwards. Air India has also issued a tender for taking 14 A320 CEOS/ NEOS (current engine option/new engine option) in an all economy configuration to be inducted in 2015 onwards in the domestic market.

Enjoy Free Wi-Fi in the sky on Emirates A380s

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ver 200,000 passengers have used Emirates’ free onboard Wi-Fi since October this year, taking advantage of the airline’s service to connect with family, friends or colleagues when they fly.

On most Emirates A380s passengers can access 10MBs of free data, enough to send emails, blog, tweet, post on Facebook, or browse the Internet. Emirates currently offer Wi-Fi connectivity on 86 aircraft - on board all of its 56 Airbus A380s, as well as on 30 of its Boeing 777s. A comprehensive retrofit programme is also underway to install Wi-Fi capability across the rest of its fleet. On 51 of Emirates’ A380s, the first 10MB of data is free, and a token $1 charge is levied for the next 500MB. On all other aircraft, getting online costs US$1 due to the current hardware and software installed.

“Emirates sees inflight WiFi as an essential value-add service that should be freely available for our customers to connect with friends, family and business. Most of our flights are long-haul inter-

national routes, and we know that many of our customers want to stay in touch when they travel.

At the moment, software and technical limitations mean that on some of our aircraft we still have to levy a token charge for Wi-Fi. We are working hard to overcome this but until then, it is only $1 to get online. We’ve been providing free Wi-Fi and $1 Wi-Fi on the fleet since early October and up to 35% of passengers are using the service, especially on long flights,” said Mr. Patrick Brannelly, Emirates’ VP for Corporate Communications - Product, Publishing, Digital and Events.

Since Emirates introduced onboard Wi-Fi three years ago, more than 600,000 passengers have connected to the service, and usage is rising in tandem with the growing penetration of mobile devices and changing lifestyles.

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irline Profitability Improves with Falling Oil Prices Financial Health Drives Consumer Benefits The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced an outlook for improved industry profitability in its Economic Performance of the Air Transport Industry report. Airlines are expected to post a collective global net profit in 2014 of some $19.9 billion (up from the $18.0 billion projected in June).

This looks set to rise to

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$25.0 billion in 2015.

Lower oil prices and stronger worldwide GDP growth are the main drivers behind the improved profitability.

Consumers will benefit substantially from the stronger industry performance as lower industry costs and efficiencies are passed through. The airline industry is highly competitive. After adjusting for inflation, average return airfares (excluding taxes and surcharges) are expected to fall by some 5.1% on 2014 levels and

cargo rates are expected to fall by a slightly bigger 5.8%.

The expected $25 billion net post-tax profit represents a 3.2% margin.

On a per passenger basis, airlines will make a net profit of $7.08 in 2015.

That is up on the $6.02 earned in 2014 and more than double the $3.38 earnings per passenger achieved in 2013.

The return on invested capital (ROIC) is expected to grow to 7.0%. This is a substantial improvement on the 6.1% ROIC expect-

ed to be achieved in 2014.

This is still 0.8 percentage points below the 7.8% weighted average cost of capital (WACC), so there is still some ground to cover before achieving sustainable margins.

“The industry outlook is improving. The global economy continues to recover and the fall in oil prices should strengthen the upturn next year. While we see airlines making $25 billion in 2015, it is important to remember that this is still just a 3.2% net profit margin. The industry story is largely positive, but there are a number of risks in to-

day’s global environment— political unrest, conflicts, and some weak regional economies- among them.

And a 3.2% net profit margin does not leave much room for a deterioration in the external environment before profits are hit,” said Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO. “Stronger industry performance is good news for all. It’s a highly competitive industry and consumers—travelers as well as shippers—will see lower costs in 2015 as the impact of lower oil prices kick in.

Airline investors will see ROIC move closer to the WACC. And a healthy air transport sector will help governments in their overall objective to stimulate the economic growth needed to put the impact of the global financial crisis behind them at last,” said Tyler.

2015 Forecast Drivers Oil Prices: Oil prices have fallen substantially in recent months and this is expected to continue into 2015 with the full-year average price expected to be $85/barrel (Brent). If that assumption is correct, it would be the first time that the average oil price has fallen below $100/ barrel since 2010 (when oil averaged $79.4/barrel).

Fuel Prices: Jet fuel prices are expected to average at $99.9/barrel in 2015 for a total fuel spend of $192 billion which represents 26% of total industry costs. It is important to note that the impact of lower fuel prices will be realized with a time lag, due to forward fuel-buying practices. Improving fuel efficiency continues to be a priority for airlines. Fuel efficiency is estimated to have improved by 1.8% in 2014 and a further improvement is expected in 2015. Fuel efficiency improvements could be accelerated by reducing the 5% of wasted fuel burn as a result of airspace and airport inefficiencies.

Economic Growth: Global GDP is expected to grow by 3.2% in 2015, up from 2.6% in 2014. This will be the first

time that global GDP has broken over 3.0% since 2010 (when global GDP grew by 4.1% in a postrecession bounce back), this time boosted by the fall in oil prices.

Passenger Trends: Passenger traffic is expected to grow by 7.0% in 2015 which is well-above the 5.5% growth trend of the past two decades. Capacity growth is expected to outstrip this slightly at 7.3%, pushing the passenger load factor to 79.6% (slightly down on the 79.9% expected for 2014). The fall in the price of fuel is expected to lead to cheaper airfares for consumers. After adjusting for inflation, average return air fares (excluding surcharges and taxes) are expected to fall by 5.1% to $458 in 2015.

Total passenger numbers are expected to grow to 3.5 billion and passenger revenues are expected to grow to $623 billion.

Cargo Trends: Cargo volumes are expected to grow by 4.5% in 2015 (slightly ahead of the 4.3% growth expected for 2014). The air cargo business has faced weak markets and increasing competition since 2011.

There has been an uptick in demand recently but cargo remains a tough business. The real cost of transporting goods in 2015 is expected to fall by 5.8%. In total, some 32

53.5 million tonnes of air cargo is expected to be flown in 2015. Total cargo revenues are expected to rise to $63 billion, but that is still some 5% lower than in 2010.

Regional Trends All regions are expected to report improved net profitability in 2015 over 2014. However, there are stark differences in profitability among the regions. Current and forward-looking industry financial assessments should not be taken as reflecting the performance of individual airlines, which can differ significantly.

North America: The strongest financial performance by far is being delivered by airlines in North America. Net posttax profits are the highest at $13.2 billion next year (up from $11.9 billion in 2014). That represents a net profit of $15.54 per enplaned passenger, which is a marked improvement from just three years earlier. Net profit margins forecast at 6% exceed the peak of the late 1990s. This improvement has been driven by consolidation, helping to raise load factors (passenger + cargo) to 65% this year, lower fuel prices and ancillaries, which together push breakeven load factors down below 60% next year.

Europe: European airlines continue to struggle as evidenced by the highest breakeven load factors among all regions (64.7%). European airlines compete vigorously in the continent’s open aviation area. But they are hampered by high regulatory costs, infrastructure inefficiency and onerous taxation. As a result, and despite the industry in the region achieving the second highest load factor, financial performance has been poor. Net profits of $4 billion next year (up from $2.7 billion in 2014) represent only $4.27 per passenger and a net profit margin of 1.8%.

Asia-Pacific: Airlines in the Asia-Pacific region are expected to achieve a net profit of $5.0 billion in 2015 (up from $3.5 billion in 2014) for a 2.2% net profit margin. That translates into $4.30 per passenger. Some strengthening of cargo markets, particularly important in this manufacturing region, plus lower fuel costs, are expected to drive the moderate improvement on 2014.

Middle East: Middle East airlines have one of the lowest breakeven load factors (58.6%).

Average yields are low but unit costs are even lower, partly driven by the strength of capacity growth. Passenger capacity is expected to expand

by 15.6% in 2015 (up from 11.4% in 2014). Post-tax net profits are expected to grow to $1.6 billion in 2015 (up from $1.1 billion in 2014). This represents a profit of $7.98 per passenger and a net profit margin of 2.5%.

Latin America: Latin American airlines have faced a mixed environment. Weak home markets have hampered performance, but a degree of consolidation and some long-haul success is expected to boost net profits to $1 billion in 2015 (up from $700 million in 2014). That would be a profit of $3.53 per passenger and a net profit margin of 2.6%.

Africa: Africa is the weakest region, as in the past 2 years. Profits are barely positive ($200 million in 2015 which is an improvement on the break-even performance in 2014), and represent just $2.51 per passenger.

Breakeven load factors are relatively low, as yields are a little higher than average while costs are lower. However, few airlines in the region are able to achieve adequate load factors, which are the lowest among the regions by almost five percentage points. Performance is improving, but slowly.

Connectivity, Jobs, Taxes and Environmental Performance

Despite relatively weak profitability, the airline industry continues to add value to its consumers, to the wider economy and to governments: Aviation’s global connectivity now spans 16,161 city-pairs (2014), which is nearly double the number in 1994. This connectivity is a catalyst for economic benefits both for users and the wider economy. Over that same period, airlines have halved the cost of air transport, after inflation, which has been a major stimulus for trade, tourism, and foreign direct investment associated with global supply chains.

The number of aviation jobs is rising although the pace of hiring is expected to taper slightly in 2015.

Total direct employment in the sector is expected to reach 2.45 million (up 1.5% on 2014). The total airline payroll in 2015 is expected to reach $149 billion (up from $142 billion in 2014). Average unit labor costs are expected to fall by 2% in 2015 as productivity per employee improves by 4.8% (almost double the 2.5% improvement in 2014). Airline employees are also extremely productive for the economies in which they work, generating gross value

added (GVA – which is the company level equivalent to GDP) of $108,610 per employee in 2015 (up 6.3% on 2014).

The industry tax bill is expected to grow to $125 billion in 2015. That is a 7.2% increase on 2014.

Airlines’ environmental performance continues to improve. Airlines are expected to use some 282 billion liters of fuel in 2015. In doing so, the industry is expected to emit 751 million tonnes of carbon. While that is a 5.1% increase on the previous year, it is decoupled from the 6.8% (ATK) increase in overall capacity to meet consumer demand. Investments in new aircraft are a major driver of fuel efficiency improvements.

In 2015 airlines are expected take delivery of 1,700 new aircraft worth $180 billion. About half of these are expected to replace less fuel-efficient older aircraft.

The industry remains committed to achieving carbon-neutral growth from 2020. This is in addition to a 1.5% average annual improvement in fuel efficiency to 2020 and complements the long-term goal of cutting net emissions in half by 2050 (compared with 2005 levels).

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M

arriott International has announced the opening of its fifth hotel under the company’s flagship Marriott Hotels brand in India, Kochi Marriott Hotel. This will be the second Marriott International property in the Kochi city and is located amidst the Lulu Mall campus, Kochi Marriott exteriorone of the larg-

est malls in the country.

Strategically located at just 22 km from the Kochi International Airport and 9 km from the main City Center, the hotel design embraces a wonderful blend of contemporary style, warmth and sophistication, all inspired from the natural landscapes of the city.

Mr. Ramesh Chennith-

ala, Minister for Home, Kerala has officialy inaugurated the Kochi Marriot Hotel on December 21, 2014 in the presence of Mr. M. A. Yusuf Ali, Managing Director of Lulu Group, Mr. Abraham Kunhu, Minister for Public Workds, Kerala, Mr. Benny Behanan MLA and Mr. Rajeev Menon, Area Vice President- South Asia-

Marriott International.

Mr. Rajeev Menon, Area Vice PresidentSouth Asia- Marriott International said, “Kochi Marriott Hotel is an exciting addition to the Marriott Hotels portfolio. This property embodies the brand’s drive to enable its guests to Travel Brilliantly. We believe the city of Kochi has tremendous potential for business and

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hospitality growth, making it an obvious choice for the Marriott Hotels brand.” He further added “The Kochi Marriott Hotel will set new standards in offering guests a dynamic hotel experience.”

Kochi Marriott hotel offers its guests 274 spacious and elegantly designed rooms which include 25 club suites, one vice presidential suite and one plush presidential suite. Coupled with state-of-the-art facilities and services, these rooms provide an elevated standard of design and décor that reflects real comfort and style. Conceptualized to meet the varied tastes of travellers; business and leisure alike. With 720 sq. mts. of stylish banquet and meeting space, equipped with the latest technology and amenities, the hotel would make an ideal venue for large conference’s and intimate gatherings alike.

The hotel offers an exciting range of dining options, each one special in its own authenticity and flavours. “Cassava”, the exclusive Kerala Cuisine specialty restaurant, will have on its menu delicacies from across 3 influential cultures, i.e. Moplah, Syrian- Christian and Sadya that give Southern cuisine its perfect blend of taste and flavours.

The menu has been crafted by masters of these respective cuisines, from recipes that have been passed down over many generations.

“Kochi Kitchen” the all-daydining, will be the place to spend quality time with friends and family, as the restaurant offers indulgent menu options, of world cuisines across Asian,

Continental and Italian specialties. Lit with beautiful, natural sun-light the restaurant pulsates with warmth and energy.

From dawn to dusk, we have it all at the Kochi Marriott Hotel, unwind after a long day’s work at “10 Degree’s North”, a classic wine and whiskey bar, with just the right mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and delectable finger food accompaniments. Catching up with friends, or just some “me time” on your mind, this is the place to be To complete this holistic experience, the wellness floor at the Kochi Marriott Hotel has the renowned “Quan Spa” offering both Western and traditional Ayurveda treatments, a well-equipped fitness center and a lap size pool. Indulgence has never looked or felt this good.

As a part of Marriott Hotel’s transformation, the iconic brand has been innovating throughout its hotels globally.

The brand new Marriott mobile app makes travel easier than everwith a brand new design, improved user experience, and enhanced features such as Mobile Check-in and Checkout.

Reflecting the transformative change, Marriott Hotels has also launched a new multi-year global marketing campaign called “Travel Brilliantly,” a bold move amplifying the brand’s dedication to leading the future of travel. The dynamic campaign reflects the lifestyle of the next generation of travelers, who seamlessly blend work and play in a mobile and global world.

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he countdown to one of the world’s biggest sporting events, ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 jointly organized by New Zealand and Australia is now well underway. The preparation is already over and the host nation, New Zealand is warming up to field a summer of cricket and one-off festivities on an international scale.

In New Zealand, ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 will play out in seven host centres offering sports fans a chance to experience one of the most passionate sporting coun36

tries on earth. Along with the Kiwi summer weather at its best, travelling fans will find that match venues are all within easy access of unique attractions. Roll in a calendar of fun events to celebrate the occasion - a nationwide ‘festival of cricket’ - and there’s going to be plenty for cricket fans to pack in.

Even before the tournament officially begins, all eyes will be on Christ church as the South Island city hosts a spectacular opening event on 12 February 2015 .The free opening event in Christchurch’s North Hagley Park

- the biggest party the city has seen in years - will be a celebration of host nation New Zealand’s culture and passion for cricket, and will feature appearances by New Zealand cricket legends Sir Richard Hadlee, Stephen Fleming and current New Zealand cricket captain Brendon McCullum.

Festivities will also follow the tournament into some of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions.

All this thirties romance and style comes to life en masse each February during Napier’s world famous Tremains Art Deco Weekend (18 - 22 February 2015) - a joyful weekend that’s stretched into a week-long party of over 200 Art Decothemed events, dozens of luxury vintage cars and

live jazz on the streets, and crowds dressed to party in flapper dresses and Great Gatsby styles.

Hamilton - one of New Zealand’s fastest growing urban centres - will host three Cricket World Cup matches between 15 February and 13 March.

This is the region that has given New Zealand one of its most talked-about tourist attractions - Hobbiton Movie Set, created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies and the only permanent movie set in the world, is an easy 45-minute drive out of the city, near the charming country town of Matamata.

At the top of the South Island - just across Cook

Strait from Wellington - Nelson is renowned as one of the sunniest spots in New Zealand with a splendid necklace of gold-sand beaches, three national parks and a creative community that has been drawn to this beautiful slice of New Zealand.

It also holds a significant place in the history of New Zealand cricket as the earliest known match was played here in 1844.

And then there’s the ‘Nelson’ - a quirky cricketing tradition that Nelson is preparing to demonstrate to the world. At lovely Saxton Oval, visitors will be able to join in to ‘do the Nelson’, hashtag #Nelson111 or the 111 world record.

On 14 February kids will have a ball at TahunaSportsground playing their own mini-version of the Cricket World Cup and learn about all the teams and cultures represented. March 1 is the day when Nelson’s cricket and heritage will come together for Race Unity Day - an annual festival of cultural diversity that will be extended to welcome the cultures of all the international cricket teams competing in New Zealand and Australia.

These local celebrations are just a taste of what New Zealanders have in store across the country to provide visiting cricket fans with the memories of a lifetime.

J

amaica is the choice destination for music lovers from around the world. The year 2015 will start on a melodious note with the globally renowned Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival. This event is set to blaze new trails with some of the most talented artists gathering for this an-

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nual extravaganza, now in its 19th edition. The much anticipated festival is set to attract music enthusiasts from 29th to 31st January, 2015 at Trelawny Stadium. The Jamaica Jazz and Blues will be all about connecting patrons to their inner fun self via musical per-

formances that inspire, uplift and put people in a good mood. The three day festival will feature legendary international singers and music bands coming together at this blockbuster musical event filled with pure enthralling music.

Global Superstar Mariah Carey has been confirmed as the headline star for the annual festival. Her performance in Jazz and Blues will mark her Caribbean debut and is a major triumph for the world-renowned festival presentation. Jamaica is in for a high impact performance from the R&B icon, Charlie Wilson who will also perform at the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival. This will mark his first appearance at one of most anticipated event on JamaicaÂ’s music calendar. A seven-time Grammy nominee, Charlie Wilson has been criticallyacclaimed around the world for his live perform-

ance. The mega-popular and chart-topping SOJA is also confirmed to perform at the festival, which will mark the bands first visit to Jamaica and its debut performance on the Reggae Island.

The Jazz and Blues Festival has paved its way to become an important event recognized globally. Jamaica will be the go-to destination for all music lovers to experience the overwhelming feeling of being bonded together under the spell of music. The 19th Annual Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, 2015 will feature soulful music, with the island’s picturesque setting as its backdrop and sumptuous Jamaican and international delicacies to be savored in its comfortable food court. Jamaica is a complete musical paradise where visitors can move to the soulful beats and experience the holiday of a lifetime.

in eastern India, including the northeastern states. It hopes to play a positive role in promoting tourism through informative articles on the tourism potential of different states in the region besides interesting news and events relevant to tourism and hospitality sector.

H

otel & Restaurant Association of Eastern India (HRAEI), the largest association of the Hospitality fraternity in North East India comprising 13 states and Union Territory has just launched the maiden issue of its bimonthly magazine ‘Mystic East’. The magazine is edited by well known journalist Dheer Kothari.

The inaugural issue has covered in detail the tourism and hospitality industry of West Bengal and Mizoram.

In addition, there are interesting features and analysis of current events including the North East Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy, 2007.

The 56-page glossy magazine will be dedicated to developments in tourism industry

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D

iscover a New Island Paradise in Qatar at Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara has opened its doors, offering guests a taste of traditional Qatari hospitality and a unique resort experience with the first and only over water villas in Qatar as well as a dedicated wellness centre which is one-of-a-kind in the Middle East. Nestled in the Arabian Gulf off the coast of Doha, the resort offers a paradise island setting with extensive facilities for everyone from honeymooners to families and unlimited opportunities for relaxation and adventure, wellness, romance and indulgence.

The distinctive crescent shape of the island provides a natural harbour framed by an 800 metre long private beach where guests can relax and swim 40

in the calm, safe waters of the turquoise sea.

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara feels a world away from bustling Doha but is only a 20 minute journey by luxury ferry from Al Shyoukh Terminal located in the city’s downtown area or a 10 minute helicopter ride directly from the airport with bird’s eye views of the spectacular coastline.

The 141 luxury guest rooms, suites and villas are designed in Arabian style with signature Anantara touches including 54 Premier Sea View Rooms, 16 Deluxe Sea View Rooms, eight Sea View Suites, 18 Anantara Suites and 34 spacious Sea View Pool Villas featuring a personal pool and poolside cabana. The eight two-bedroom Over Water Villas and trio of prestigious three-bedroom Anantara Over Water Villas offer 360 square

metres of luxurious space and a 62 square metre personal pool, ideal for families and groups of friends.

The resort boasts its own marina with 30 berths and a fully equipped dive centre with a practice pool, ideal for beginners. Water sports range from the relaxing pace of kayaking, pedalos and stand up paddle boarding, the thrills of wakeboarding, banana boat, triple tube and donut rides, water skiing and jet skiing, to fishing trips and luxury yacht cruises. In the resort’s two lane surf pool the waves can be controlled to suit different skill levels, making it easier to master surfing techniques than out at sea. Guests can energise themselves with laps or a leisurely dip in the 100 metre long lagoon pool or enjoy the fun at the children’s pool

complete with water slides.

Guests looking for recreation options on dry land are also spoilt for choice, from tennis, beach volleyball and a fitness centre, to an entertainment centre with a ninehole putting golf course, eight pin bowling alley and VIP cinema theatre.

With dedicated facilities and fully qualified professional child minders, families are welcome at the Cool Mint Kids’ Club and Pepper Mint Teens’ Club, where they can make new friends and socialise, play games and get active on the obstacle course and in the adventure zone.

The resort’s dedicated Balance Wellness Centre is the first and only facility of its kind in the Middle East within a resort, offering holistic programmes for relaxation, detox, de-stress and radiance, fitness, weight management, yoga and alternative therapy, as well as pre- and post-natal and anti-ageing journeys. Unique facilities include an indoor botanical garden, oxygen fern room, and female only hydro pool, along with nutritional wellness cuisine with menus crafted by specialist chefs. Wellbeing goes hand in hand with expert pampering at Anantara Spa’s tranquil over water sanctuary, featuring separate male and

female Turkish hammams and Jacuzzis and a treatment menu that pays tribute to Doha’s ancient tribal traditions and rich cultural heritage.

Eight dining options offer a mouthwatering choice of Middle Eastern, Italian and international cuisines at spectacular locations all around the island from the marina, poolside, by the shoreline and on over water decks with tranquil views and soft sea breezes. Al Nahham, offering a blend of Arabic Mediterranean cuisine, is the flagship

by Design’s selection of specially crafted menus and intimate settings, enhanced by the services of a personal chef and butler, will make any occasion special. Offering a richly interactive culinary experience, guests can learn to recreate traditional Qatari cuisine with a master chef in a Spice Spoons cooking class showcasing the Middle East’s coveted spices and exotic ingredients.

For travellers with the time and inclination to explore beyond the island, the resort is well

restaurant of the resort.

Guests can enjoy signature creative juices and exotic mocktails at sunset, shisha with ambient soundtracks, and fine dining under the stars overlooking Doha’s dramatic skyline. Specialty dining outlets include an American style diner and an organic café to complement the Balance wellness offering. Dining

placed for guests to discover Qatar’s rich wealth of cultural and natural treasures with Doha only 20 minutes away.

To make a reservation, call +974 4040 5050, email reservations.doha@ anantara.com or go to http://doha.anantara.com Photo Courtesy: TTG Mena Luxury / Anantara Reorts 41

A

unique series of manmade floating islands - called the 5 Lagoons Project – have begun to take shape in Maldives, which will be a series of almost 1,300 islands in the Indian Ocean. The floating islands are part of a joint project that many hope will be the solution to the impending environmental crisis the islands could face over the next 50 years.

Thanks to climate change and the forecast of increasing sea levels, the Maldives - which are now only one and a half metres above sea level — could one day be totally submerged. The project is a joint venture between the Maldivian government and Dutch Docklands, a Holland-based firm that specializes in building everything from floating prisons to floating conference and hotel complexes and homes.

The 5 Lagoons Project — 80 million square feet — will include: a private islands project with $10

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million villas; a floating 18-hole golf course with an undersea tunnel; a conference complex and hotel; 185 $1-million waterfront homes connected along a flowershaped quay as well as a separate floating island with homes for residents of the Maldivian capital.

Privately financed, the project is a joint venture between the Maldivian government and Dutch Docklands.

Mr. Paul Van de Camp, chief executive officer of Dutch Docklands, and his company worked for two years with the Maldivian government to come up with the plan. Key to the deal was allowing foreign ownership of the highend villas that would be constructed. In exchange Van de Camp’s company would build a separate floating island with homes for the bulk of the country’s population. All of this will be done with an eye to protect the islands’ natural resources and environment, said

Van de Camp. The floating islands will not hurt or touch the coral reefs and coral beds that surround the island nor the other marine life in the Indian Ocean that surrounds the Maldives. “The Maldives are the biggest marine protected environment in the world,” said Van de Camp. The government is very cautious about anything that could potentially harm the aquatic life, the environment and tourism. The floating islands will be anchored to the seabed using cables or telescopic mooring piles. They will be stable even in storms, the company says. One of the reasons designers decided to build a number of small islands instead of a few big ones was to minimize any damage to the seabed and marine life.

T

he World Islamic Travel Summit (WITS 15), the largest showcase of Halal travel & tourism solutions, is to debut in Abu Dhabi city, the capital of the United Arab Emir-

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ates from October 19-21, 2015.

The pioneering conference and exhibition will run over two halls at the state-of-the-art Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The multi-faceted event will include an exhibition with over 200 participants plus a 1,000-delegate conference, comprising keynote sessions, panel discussions, a Ministerial debate and 150 presentations from 70 international

speakers.

Organised under the theme Driving The Halal Tourism Revolution, the event will bring together an unprecedented array of international specialists, projects, suppliers and policy-makers.

The Halal tourism market is booming and it now represents 13% of the global market, said Mr.Hosam Moustafa WITS15 Events Manager.

A recent Muslim travel report, released by the

consultancy DinarStandard and rating agency Crescent Rating, projects that until at least 2020, Muslim international tourism will increase faster than conventional tourism 4.79% versus 3.8%. At that point, overall annual spending for international Muslim tourism is expected to reach US $192 billion and these figures excludes estimated Hajj and Umrah expenditures.

The time is right for an event of this size and scope to address the needs of this vast international sector and Abu

Dhabi, with its awardwinning ADNEC and event facilities in the heart of this market, is an ideal venue and host.

WITS15 is being brought to the UAE capital by organiser Cacti Events with the support of Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau the dedicated business events promotion arm of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi).

Many Muslim majority markets are now fast emerging economies, with higher than average population growth rates supported by a young demographic, said Sultan Al Dhaheri, Acting Executive Director Tourism,

TCA Abu Dhabi. Against this background, expenditure by Halal tourists is expected to rise more than 6% per annum in future, which is almost double global industry growth. With Abu Dhabi now specifically targeting the Halal tourism sector with segment-specific accommodation and product, the staging of this event in the UAE capital will put the spotlight .WITS15 is expected to draw high profile international attendance from government delegations, tourism associations, market-leading private sector operators and leading financiers funding Islamic tourism projects.

More than 60 countries will be represented at WITS15, with many exhibiting and others contributing presentations and speakers to the conference sessions.

WITS15 will focus strongly on the intra tourism between the 57 members states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) - the second largest inter-governmental organisation after the United Nations with a membership spread over four continents.

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A

prestigious and world renowned percussion group from Taiwan “U-Theatre” was in Mumbai recently to perform on the invitation of the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai’s Festival “Mood Indigo”.

The group has earned significant praise and awards in Taiwan and on international stage and it was their first show in India. “We have been dedicated in promoting

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cultural communication between India and Taiwan in the last two decades” said Ambassador ChungKwang Tien, Representative of Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India (TECC).

He also said “The “Ju Percussion” in the year 2011 and “Ten Drum” in 2013 has won overwhelming success in Delhi and Mumbai. This year the “Utheatre” is to bring its latest prestigious program

“Sword of Wisdom” to the campus of IIT, Mumbai.

I believe this cultural communication will enhance mutual understanding of the people and excite the young generation of India and Taiwan.”

A welcome dinner was organized for the U Theatre group at ITC Grand Central a day prior to their performance at Mood Indigo, which was attended by Ambassa-

dor Chung-Kwang Tien and his team from New Delhi; members of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Representative Office in India; Subhasis Chaudhuri, Deputy Director (Academic and Infrastructural Affairs) & Professor of Electrical Engineering.

Chih Chun Huang, Music Director, U-Theatre said, “Drumming, martial arts and meditation are the major training of U-Theatre. We visualize the music through movements; we musicalize the movement through music. They both energize and stimulate each other, breaking the boundary of the two and creating a new language. This elaborates the expression of movements and music.

One can be seen and the other can be heard. However, the essences of both two are the same.”

The performance of U Theatre has several aspects. There are music, body language, drama and Zen, which all are the basic training of our Theatre. A performance combining all these elements is already unique.

In essence, U Theatre combines arts and Tao. Arts visualize Tao and Tao provides arts with rich meanings. This is where U

Theatre stands out from other performing groups.

In the performance, audience can see only not motion through silence but also silence through motion and eventually the power of silence.

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