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Editor’s Note

SEASON WITH HOPE

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nother tourism season is on board and travellers are back to pack the bags for their favourite destinations after two years of uncertainty.

Almost all destinations around the globe are facing seasonal concentrations of tourist activities.

Seasonality is a prominent Phenomenon that has no unique and precise definition. The most prominent definition of Seasonality was provided by Hylleberg in 1992. As per definition, Seasonality is systematic, although not necessarily regular, intra-year movement caused by changes in the weather, the calendar, and timing of decisions, directly or indirectly through the production and consumption decisions made by the agents of the economy.

The efficient operation of tourism facilities and infrastructure is based on a good understanding of seasonality in tourism which is very essential. To ensure a better understanding of the phenomenon in case of causes of seasonality, quantification of implications, as well as potential strategies and further examinations at different verticals are also needed.

Pressure on the ecological and sociocultural carrying capacity and inefficient use of tourism facilities are the results of the peaking of tourist demand in a few hectic weeks or months in destinations. Strategies and policies which help to extend the main season and develop additional seasons are needed.

The seasonality Phenomenon of tourism affects all aspects of supply-demand activities including human resources, supplies volume, occupancy, pricing, offered

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activities, and available attractions.

The most applied classification of seasonality causes is two categories, namely natural and institutional.

Weather like temperature, hours of sunshine, calendar effects such as religious festivals and timing decisions like vacations, holidays, tax years, and accounting periods all are included in these categories.

In India, October to March is the season while November is one of the best months to travel anywhere in India which offers wonderful weather and multiple festivals are also on the cards. The Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan is a unique event to witness, while Diwali, the festival of lights, encourages beautiful candle displays, buildings covered in lights, and celebratory fireworks all over the country. For enjoying the rain, Monsoon is the best time to visit both the hills and plains in south India and for Ayurveda therapies. The monsoon is not only the key climatic or agricultural event in the Indian subcontinent but also a key economic event. The effects of monsoon reach far beyond agricultural output, shaping political dynamics on regional and national levels.

The pace of change in the travel industry is faster than ever before because of emerging technology and shifting demographics that alter travellers’ expectations and practices.

Hope this will be a happy and productive tourism season for everyone.

Rajani A Editor www.tourismindiaonline.com

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Contents

RNI No. KERBIL/1998/7642

OCTOBER 2022 VOL. 25 NO. 06

MANAGING EDITOR Ravisankar K V EDITOR Rajani A EXECUTIVE EDITOR Raadia Mukadam ASSOCIATE EDITOR G. Ajithkumar ART EDITOR N Bhattathiri DIRECTOR - DESIGNS Anand Sankar PHOTOGRAPHERS Vivek R. Nair, Murukesh Iyer

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AP, MP, KERALA & TAJ WINS NATIONAL TOURISM AWARDS

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PUBLIC-PRIVATE COLLABORATION IS CRITICAL TO ACHIEVE A FULL RECOVERY

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KERALA TOURISM & THAILAND BAGS PATA GOLD AWARD 2022

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NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE TOURISM MINISTERS HELD IN DHARAMSHALA,HP

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“ONE INDIA - ONE TOURISM” & “ONE COUNTRY -ONE TAX”

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“KOASTAL KARNATAKA” DESTINATION ORIENTATION TRIP BY KTF

BUSINESS & EDITORIAL ASSOCIATES NEW DELHI D Anilkumar +91 9868123311 MUMBAI K V Satyanath +91 9745598126 KOLKATA Jayasree Singh +91 943306033 BANGALURU Damodaran K Nair +91 8310955261 EDITORIAL & CORPORATE OFFICE TOURISM INDIA PUBLICATIONS PVT. LTD VRA A -33/1, JAGATH NIVAS, VELLAYAMBALAM, SASTHAMANGALAM P.O., TRIVANDRUM - 695010, KERALA, INDIA TEL: +91 471 2315256 MOB: +91 9745598126 Email: info@tourismindiaonline.com CONTACT US Editorial Enquiries editor@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 9847060531 Advertisement Enquiries marketing@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 9745598126 Circulation & Subscription Enquiries circulation@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 9745598126

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TAAI REITERATED AND ADVOCATED INTERESTS OF TRAVEL TRADE INDUSTRY

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THE WORLD OF STORYTELLING AT UDAIPUR

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IATO REQUESTED PM TO INTERVENE IN E VISA ISSUE

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of TOURISM INDIA PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD. All rights reserved Copyright @2022

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MALDIVES, TAJ, CITRINE & UDS, WON SOUTH ASIAN TRAVEL AWARDS 2022

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SITGF CELEBRATED WORLD TOURISM DAY

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TALK SHOW ON “POSSIBILITIES OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN TOURISM”

Printed And Published By Ravisankar K V On Behalf Of Tourism India Publications Pvt Ltd, Vra A -33/1, Jagath Nivas, Vellayambalam, Sasthamangalam P.o., Trivandrum, Kerala, India 695010 and Printed at Maya Printers, Ernakulam for Aarsha Offset Graphix, Mettukkada, Thycaud.P.O., Trivandrum- 695014 Kerala, India Editor: Rajani A

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Contents 36

THE VIVANTA MEGHALAYA INAUGURATED IN SHILLONG

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AIR INDIA UNVEILS TRANSFORMATION PLAN: VIHAAN. AI

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AIR INDIA DEEPENS CONNECT TO US AND UK

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AIR INDIA, AIRASIA INDIA AND VISTARA SIGNED MOU WITH CSIR-IIP NEW BENGALURU TO SYDNEY FLIGHTS TAKE OFF

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INDIGO JOINS WEF SUSTAINABILITY CAMPAIGN ‘CLEAR SKIES FOR TOMORROW’

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INDIGO TO BOLSTER CONNECTIVITY BETWEEN INDIA AND MIDDLE EAST BOOKING.COM INSPIRES SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL WITH GENZ STAR SHANAYA KAPOOR AS ITS NEXT EXPLORER HEALTH REFRESHING PROGRAMS AT ITOOZHI-THE CENTRE FOR COLLABORATIVE MEDICINE

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APPOINTMENTS

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STB LAUNCHES #SINGAPOREIMAGINE MARKETING PROGRAMME TO SPUR INNOVATIVE DESTINATION PENANG CON.&EXH. BUREAU AIMS TO RECONNECT & REVIVE TOURISM GET READY TO WANDER IN LAKE TAHOE THIS SUMMER

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TOURISM MALAYSIA LEADS B2B SESSION AT TAFI CONVENTION 2022

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INDONESIA HOST ROADSHOWS TO WOO INDIAN TOURISTS 9

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NEWS / NATIONAL

AP, MP, KERALA & TAJ WINS NATIONAL TOURISM AWARDS Uttarakhand wins best state award, Maharashtra bagged the second position and Telengana won the third position in allaround development of tourism, while Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Goa honoured with Hall of Fame award in the category of Best State/ Union Territory Comprehensive development of Tourism ( Rest of India).

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r. Jagdeep Dhankhar, Vice President of India, presented the National Tourism Awards to awardees at the programme organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, to mark World Tourism Day, on 27th September 2022. Mr. G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Tourism, Mr.

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Ajay Bhatt, MoS Tourism Mr. Arvind Singh IAS, Secretary Tourism also graced the ceremony. Highlighting the achievements of the industry in 201819 a total of 81 awards were given away this year and India Tourism Statistics 2022, New Incredible India Global Promotional Films, and “GoBeyond:75

Experiences of North India” e-book were also released by the Vice President on this occasion.

During his keynote address, Vice President Mr.Jagdeep Dhankhar described India as “heaven for tourism” and asked the Indians to explore domestic tourist destinations first before

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looking at international travel. Referring to Bharat’s long civilizational history and rich cultural heritage, he underlined that most of the tourist places in the country have a deep connection with our history, folk arts, and ancient texts.

Vice President termed tourism a key driver of economic growth and employment generation in the country.

Referring to multiple dimensions of tourism, the Vice President stressed the need for fully leveraging India’s immense potential in the field of medical tourism as well as the growing global interest in

our ancient practices of healing such as Ayurveda and Yoga.

Appreciating the Government’s efforts for the development of the tourism sector in the country, Mr. Dhankhar said that the development of tourism infrastructure has been accompanied by innovative initiatives such as Dekho Apna Desh and Utsav Portal.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. G. Kishan Reddy said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, India’s Tourism sector is moving towards creative, responsible, and inclusive

growth. The Ministry of Tourism is working with a 360-degree perspective and a whole government approach for the development of the tourism sector.

With Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Culture, and Ministry of Commerce are also working on the development of this sector, which will help in establishing better synergy and convergence leading to sustainable and world-class infrastructure development.

Mr. Reddy further highlighted that

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NEWS / NATIONAL India plans to position itself as a major tourism destination during its presidency of G20 for 2023. During the presidency, we aim to showcase India as a ‘mustvisit destination at a global level. 3600 railway coaches have been allocated for tourism purposes for Circuit specific trains. Such trains have already started for Ramayana and Buddhist Circuits while the one for Krishna Circuit will start soon. Our aim is to make India one of the most prominent destinations of the world. Union Minister added that Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi is working as the brand ambassador of Indian tourism.

Mr.Ajay Bhatt, MoS Tourism congratulated all the award winners and said that the Ministry of Tourism has prepared a draft National Tourism Policy 2022 as part of the vision of New India on the high trajectory of growth and prosperity. The Policy aims at Improving framework conditions for tourism development in the country, supporting tourism industries, strengthening tourism support functions, and developing tourism sub-sectors.

During his welcome speech Secretary Tourism, Mr. Arvind Singh said that this kind of award motivates the travel and tourism sector. Travel & Tourism is one

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of the world’s largest economic sectors, creating export and prosperity around the world. The Indian Tourism sector has emerged as one of the key drivers of growth for the Indian economy post covid, he said.

Madhya Pradesh received national awards in 8 different categories. Union Minister of State for Tourism Ajay Bhatt presented the honours to Ms. Usha Thakur, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Spirituality Department,Government of MP. Indore, the cleanest city in the country has received the award for ‘Civic Management of a Tourist Destination in India’ (Category A). Shiv Mandir Bhojpur has received the award for ‘Best Maintained and Disabled Friendly Monument’. Devi Ahilya Bai Airport, Indore, has received the award for ‘Best Airport-Rest of India’. Excellence in Publishing-Hindi award for Bhatti Chitra of Malwa and Bhopal Brochure has received the award for ‘Best Tourism Promotion Publicity Material. Subhash Bhavre of Pench Reserve has received the award for ‘Best Wildlife Guide, WesternCentral’. Courtyard House Homestay at village Patara, in Kanha National Park, Mandla has received the award

for ‘Incredible India Bed and Breakfast Establishments Approved by State Government’. The state has received awards for the first time in the categories Clean Tourism Place– Western Region (Ujjain) and Incredible India Bed and Breakfast Establishment Approved by State Government (Courtyard Homestay, Mandla In a huge endorsement of its sustainable tourism practices, Kerala was accorded the prestigious “Hall of Fame” status for being the Best State/ UT in the category of ‘Comprehensive Development of Tourism for the fourth consecutive year at the National Tourism Awards 2018-19. Kozhikode’s District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) was adjudged the best in the category.

The National Tourism Awards are presented to various segments of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry, including State Governments in recognition of their performance in their respective fields and also to encourage healthy competition with an aim to promote tourism. These Awards have over the years emerged as a prestigious recognition of achievements in the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors.

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NEWS / INTERNATIONAL

PUBLIC-PRIVATE COLLABORATION IS CRITICAL TO ACHIEVE A FULL RECOVERY WTTC Members and G20 Ministers gather in Bali as part of the Tourism Ministerial meeting under the Indonesian Presidency; Public-private collaboration is critical to achieving a full recovery of the sector; said WTTC President & CEO

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TTC hosts historical dialogue between the private sector and the G20 Ministers. The Travel & Tourism private sector was invited to the G20 Tourism Ministers’ meeting when the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) addressed the Group of Twenty in Bali, Indonesia.

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During her speech at the critical meeting, Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said that while Travel & Tourism is recovering following more than two years of pain, enhanced collaboration between the public and private sector is needed now more than ever if we are to achieve a full recovery and ensure a sustainable

future.

Simpson told Ministers that Travel & Tourism is central to the world’s economic recovery as it is set to grow at double the speed of the global economy over the next 10 years.

As the current holder of the G20 Presidency, Indonesia is focussing on

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the need to create a more inclusive and sustainable foundation for growth, carrying the theme “Recover Together, Recover Stronger”.The Tourism Ministers have focused the conversation on a “People-Centred recovery” that will benefit communities and SMEs. WTTC’s latest research shows that while COVID-19 had a devastating effect on Travel & Tourism, the future looks bright with the creation of more than 126 million jobs globally over the next decade. According to the research, twothirds of these jobs will be created in G20 countries, producing 82 million Travel & Tourism jobs by 2032. However, while travellers are beginning to discover the world once again and demand is on the rise, WTTC says challenges remain.

During her address to G20 leaders, Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Travel & Tourism is seeing green shoots of recovery. The world, with some exceptions, is travelling again. “However, the recovery could be hampered by economic headwinds. Rising energy prices cost of living, labour shortages, airspace restrictions, and, of course, climate change, all threaten the full of recovery of our sector.

“In order to unlock its full potential and achieve the long-awaited recovery, the public and private sectors must join forces and collaborate more than ever.

This historic meeting gives us the best platform to establish public-private collaboration, which will help us build back a better, stronger, and more resilient

Travel & Tourism sector. “Finance Ministers should take note that this is the sector that wills turbo charge economies following the worst economic shock of the modern age, creating 126 million new jobs.”

During the meeting, Ministers and business leaders discussed policies that have the support of the Travel & Tourism sector, and which practices have been the most effective in nurturing the workforce, protecting communities and the environment, and ultimately working towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

The Ministers from Saudi Arabia, Korea, the United States, Canada, Spain, and Indonesia took part in the dialogue, joined by the UNWTO SecretaryGeneral Zurab Pololikashvili.

WTTC’s Members Arnold Donald, Carnival Corporation; Rajit Sukumaran, IHG CEO of Southeast Asia, Shirley Tan, CEO of Rajawali Property Group, Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer VFS Global, Sven Leirvaag VP Amadeus, Andrea Grisdale, IC Bellagio CEO, Beth Potter CEO Tourism Industry Association of Canada and Korea; Steven Liew, Airbnb Regional Director, representing different industries and regions. were also attended the meeting.

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NEWS / AWARDS

KERALA TOURISM & THAILAND BAGS PATA GOLD AWARD 2022 A Change of Air by Kerala Tourism bagged gold award in Printed Marketing Campaign and Say Bonjour To Paris by SriLankan Airlines won gold in Marketing – Carrier category while Second Careers by Jetwing Hotels, Sri Lanka shines in Women Empowerment Initiative section. Sustainable Tourism Livelihood Recovery Program of Nepal Tourism Board honoured with gold award in Tourism Destination Resilience (Asia Pacific) category

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he Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced the names of the winners for the prestigious PATA Gold and Grand awards in various categories and Kerala Tourism has bagged the Award in Printed Marketing Campaign category, in a huge recognition of the government’s sustained efforts to position the state as a major global destination in the post-pandemic world.

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During the 2022 PATA Gold Awards Ceremony held virtually on October 7, 2022, the PATA announced the winners of the 2022 PATA Gold Awards.

PATA presented 23 Gold Awards to such organisations as the The Ascott Limited, Singapore; Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts; Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA); Faithworks Studios; Forte Hotel

Group; Gangwon Tourism Organization; Jetwing Hotels; John Borthwick; Keelung City Government; Kerala Tourism; Korea Tourism Organization; Macao Government Tourism Office; Macao Institute for Tourism Studies; Marianas Visitors Authority; Nepal Tourism Board; Sands China; Sarawak Tourism Board; SriLankan Airlines; Tourism Authority of Thailand; Tourism Fiji;

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Tourism Malaysia; TTG Asia Media, and Quantcast. The Hong Kong Tourism Board received the PATA Gold Award 2022 Grand Title in Marketing for its “Hong Kong Neighbourhoods - West Kowloon campaign, while the grand title in Sustainability and Social Responsibility was presented to Wynn Macau, Limited, for its “Wynn Sustainability Initiatives”.

Tourism Authority of Thailand won a Gold Award for Digital Marketing Campaign for its #KhaoThaiContest while DASTA won the gold award in the Heritage category for its “Rejuvenating Ban Khok Mueang’s Heritage through a Sustainable Practise of Community-based Tourism” project.

Mr. P B Nooh IAS, Director, Kerala Tourism has received the award from Ms. Liz Ortiguera, CEO, PATA, and Ms. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandez, Director, Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) in a virtual ceremony.

“PATA Gold Award comes as a high honour for Kerala Tourism, which has stepped up efforts to market the state as a major global destination. It is also significant to note that this award comes shortly after Time magazine cited Kerala as one of the 50 extraordinary destinations to explore in 2022,” said Mr. PA Mohammed Riyas, Minister for Tourism, Government of Kerala.

“Our sustained marketing campaign has already started yielding results as the state has been witnessing a high footfall of both domestic and international visitors since the turn of this year,” Mr. Riyas added.

“PATA Grand Award is a huge affirmation of the brilliance of our marketing campaigns at a time when Kerala Tourism is poised to scale greater heights,” said Mr. K S Srinivas IAS, Principal Secretary, Kerala Tourism.

PATA Gold Awards, now in its 38th year, recognize the best in marketing, creativity, and innovation tailored for the Asia Pacific region and beyond.

Staying current with industry trends and innovation, PATA updated its PATA Gold Awards programme by introducing two new categories, Tourism Destination Resilience (Global) and Tourism Destination Resilience (Asia Pacific).

In all, 25 individual awards for specific themes were awarded. All award recipients were honoured at the virtual PATA Gold Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 7, 2022.

Kerala has been featured prominently in national and international channels, newspapers, magazines, portals, and airport displays, helping the state to regain its reputation as a must-visit destination after the pandemic-triggered crisis.

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NEWS / NATIONAL

NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE TOURISM MINISTERS HELD IN DHARAMSHALA Mr. Jai Ram Thakur, Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh and Mr. G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister for Tourism & Culture, Government of India has jointly inaugurated the conference.

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he three-day National Conference of State Tourism Ministers has successfully concluded at Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh and brought out in diverse viewpoints and perspectives from all the States and Union Territories of India on tourism development and growth and to create a direct dialogue with the States on Schemes, policies and steps being taken at a national level for overall tourism improvement in India. The conference started with a press conference chaired

by Mr. G Kishan Reddy. The National Conference also witnessed as a platform for sharing of best practices, successful projects, and tourism product opportunities from various parts of India.

The second day of the National started with felicitation of dignitaries from various States of India by Mr. Jai Ram Thakur, Chief Minister, Himachal Pradesh and Mr. G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Tourism, Culture and DoNER. Tourism Ministers of 12 States including Madhya Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Goa, Haryana, Mizoram, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh were present along with Tourism industry association leaders.

Mr. Kishan Reddy said that with the pandemic behind us, the tourism industry is all set for a revival. As a travel destination,

India offers a diversity of products and experiences. The rich heritage of India, one of the world’s oldest civilizations, is an all-embracing confluence of festivals, religions, traditions, and customs. The Union Minister added that for any global tourist, India is not just a place to see and visit, but a destination to experience and be transformed for life. If India needs to achieve its immediate goals of a 5 trillion economy and its long term goals of a developed nation then Tourism has a very important role to play.

Mr. Reddy said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasised on two aspects, First is Whole of Government Approach, where we breakdown silos and work together across Government Ministries. Second is we have to work as Team India, where the Union Government and the State Government work together hand in hand for the benefit of the citizens. “I sincerely feel that, with all the government representatives, this is the perfect platform to put forth all perspectives and put in place a vision for the sector”, he added. The Minister further added that the support of local people and communities must be enlisted so that benefits of Tourism percolate down to the grassroots. Whole of government approach and Jan bhagidari can revolutionise Tourism sector in the country, added Shri G Kishan Reddy

Mr. Reddy appealed that just like NSS, NCC we need to work on making Yuva Tourism clubs at all levels. States need to work on a war footing for establishing these tourism clubs which will familiarize the youth with the concept of Dekho Apna Desh. Shri Reddy also emphasised that to achieve true potential of tourism, the most fundamental requirement is to ensure coordination at every level. We need a proactive approach, from every stakeholder, be it centre, states or the industry.

Mr. Jai Ram Thakur said, “It is a very important day for us today as representatives from all over India are here with us. I am delighted that Himachal Pradesh got this opportunity to host all of you. This is an excellent initiative by Ministry of Tourism. Himachal Pradesh presents lots of unique destinations to the world. “ He further added that the tourism industry in India and Himachal was badly hit by the pandemic; however, now we are at the cusp of a change. He said, “Now, our government has also started the “Nai Raahein Nai Manzilein” scheme to highlight some of our lesser known tourist destinations. The state has undertaken multiple new projects to attract the tourists not only for a weekend but for longer stays too.”

Mr. Shripad Naik, Minister of State

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NEWS / NATIONAL for Tourism & Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India spoke of the successful implementation of the PRASHAD and SWADESH DARSHAN schemes of Ministry OF Tourism while also highlighting other major initiatives and efforts of the government to promote tourism. PRASHAD scheme, was launched by the Ministry of Tourism in the year 2014-15 for integrated development of identified pilgrimage and heritage destinations aims to provide last mile connectivity. The Minister also said, “The Ministry of Tourism has prepared a draft National Tourism Policy to promote India as a tourist destination in all spheres where it enjoys a comparative advantage” Mr. Ajay Bhatt, Minister of State for Tourism and Defence, suggested that it is the need of the hour to bring out our hidden cultural and natural facets to attract more tourists. “We have tackled the difficult times of COVID19 with the Dekho Apna Desh initiative. We are constantly moving forward under the able guidance of our Prime Minister.

However, despite having one of the best natural beauties, India attracts less than 2% of global tourists; and, this only points to the potential that we can achieve.”, said the minister.

Addressing the gathering, Mr.

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Sambit Patra, Chairman, India Tourism Development Corporation, said, “I firmly believe that as far as tourism is concerned it’s more about targeting the mental space. The first mantra is to appeal to the mental space with the right advertisement about our Incredible India. Pointing out the vast and diverse culture of the nation, he mentioned that in India ‘Kankar Kankar mein hai Shankar’ and we need to strive to highlight it for the prospective tourists.” He also added, “Under the able leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, India is striving to make new advances in the tourism sector with the Ramayan circuit, Buddisht Circuit, Himalaya Circuit, etc under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme” During the session, Mr. Arvind Singh IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism said, “The tourism sector was badly hit in the last two years because of COVID19. For the first time after a gap of two years, we have gathered physically here to discuss the revival of tourism sector; and, this in itself is a symbol of change in the tourism sector.” Mr. Arvind Singh also said that the G-20 presidency offers a unique opportunity for India to boost is tourism sector and the revival of tourism sector will generate employment opportunities in India.

Welcoming the dignitaries, Mr. Nakul

Anand, Chairman, FAITH said, “We meet together under a common cause which has provided livelihood to many. India, despite being the fifth largest economy in the world, accounts for a miniscule of world’s tourism share. COVID19 remained the worst crisis in tourism sector. This year brought a new ray of hope. The year ahead will also see the rise of travel in India as the nation emerges from the pandemic shock. We need to blend and promote the current tourism with our ancient culture.” He also added, “The tourism industry is now answering the demands of the times and we are moving to a tourism sector that focuses on experiential values “ The conference is divided into thematic sessions on Development of Tourism Infrastructure, Cultural, Spiritual & Heritage tourism, Tourism in the Himalayan states, Responsible and sustainable tourism, Role of digital technology for the marketing and promotion of tourism destinations, Emerging importance of homestays in the Indian hospitality sector, Ayurveda, Wellness, and Medical Value travel, and lastly on Forest and wildlife tourism.

Mr. G Kamala Vardhana Rao IAS, Director General, Ministry of Tourism proposed vote of thanks.

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“ONE INDIA ONE TOURISM” & “ONE COUNTRY ONE TAX” Mr. Nakul Anand, Chairman, FAITH proposes a novel idea to change Indian Tourism post-pandemic and the strategic pillars including the shared National Tourism vision at the National Conference of State Tourism Ministers at Dharmshala.

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espite its rich treasure trove and high rankings in Natural & Cultural resources coupled with price competitiveness, India -the 5th largest economy in the world could only capture 1.24% of the World’s International Tourist Arrivals in 2019, despite the fact that India ranked 8th on Cultural Resources & Business Travel and 14th on Natural Resources on World Economic Forum Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index 2019 out of 140 countries. We, obviously have not been able to realise the true impact of Tourism and convert our natural advantages into potential economic advantages, said Mr. Nakul Anand, Chairman of the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH) while addressing the National Conference of State Tourism Ministers at Dharmshala in Himachal Pradesh organized by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

As usual, he started his address with several interesting quotes from Puranas, Upanishads, and world history. “We meet together for a common cause. A cause that has provided livelihood and life to so many. It is our global calling card that truly unites the diversity of our country. There are decades where nothing happens and there are weeks where decades happen.

The Covid pandemic swept through the world and wreaked havoc like never before. It remains the worst crisis to hits the industry, ironically tourism relies on the same mobility that spreads the disease”.

Every storm, however, brings with itself seeds of opportunities. Opportunities are www.tourismindia.org

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like Sunrises. If you wait too long, you miss them. Uncertain times are the catalysts for reimagination and the opportunity also lies in seeing what everyone sees and imagining what no one has thought.

Archimedes saw the water level in his bathtub rise as he immersed himself.

Millions saw the apple fall, but Newton asked why. Gandhi questioned violence Buddha questioned desire Christ questioned revenge And the Wright Brothers questioned gravity.

He also reiterated the great opportunity to make Indian Tourism the mainstream engine of Socio-Economic growth through collective efforts. In our journey to the 100th anniversary of India’s Independence in 2047, it is more than possible to achieve 100 million Inbound Tourists and 10 billion Domestic Tourism Visits, with the potential employment of 150 million additional direct and indirect jobs pan India.

The FAITH chairman noted that the pandemic triggered consumers to make this the “Year of the Travel Reset”. He added the future is travelling slower and more mindfully by embracing regenerative travel, challenging overtourism and correcting under-tourism, and experiencing inclusive destinations rooted in meaningful connections with Nature, community development, conservation, and sustainability while putting purpose first. “Travel will be less about where you go and when you go.

More about who you are with and what

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The top TEN ways to WIN: 1. NATIONAL TOURISM COUNCIL“One India – One Tourism” 2. GST amendments “One Country – One Tax” 3. Infrastructure Sector and Industry Status“Quality brings Quality” 4. Export Status “Globally Competitive”Value & Volume 5. Classify Tourism in the Concurrent List 6. Domestic Travel Tax Credit“Extend Benefits to ‘Aas Paas’Tourism” 7. Create Tourism Centres of Excellence 8. Sensitisation on importance of Tourism across all states’ officers 9.Seamless Tourism Transportation- “Standardise all inter State road Taxes” 10. Integrated Tourism Marketing Campaign between Centre and States

you can do together from mass travel to meaningful travel. The year ahead will also see the rise of premium travel,” he shared.

Mr. Nakul Anand suggests various strong measures to achieve this futuristic vision and the strategic pillars and plans including the Shared National Tourism Vision, Value Accretive Regulation, Investment Drivers, and Market Excellence.

These can best be summed up in what we term as Keeping the “FAITH” in Our TEN to WIN. The top TEN ways to WIN are NATIONAL TOURISM COUNCIL- “One India – One Tourism”, GST amendments“One Country – One Tax”, Infrastructure Sector and Industry Status- “Quality brings Quality”, Export Status “Globally Competitive”- Value & Volume, Classify Tourism in the Concurrent List, Domestic Travel Tax Credit- “Extend Benefits to ‘Aas Paas’Tourism”, Create Tourism Centres of Excellence, Sensitisation on importance of Tourism across all states’ officers, Seamless Tourism Transportation“Standardise all inter-State road Taxes”, and Integrated Tourism Marketing Campaign between Centre and States.

He concluded his speech with Mark Twain’s famous quote, “India is, the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great grandmother of tradition. Our most valuable and most instructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only.”

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TAAI REITERATED AND ADVOCATED INTERESTS OF TRAVEL TRADE INDUSTRY Travel Agents Assocation of India raised the voice to protect the interests of Travel Trade Industry at Tourism Minister’s Conference held at Dharmashala in HP

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n industry devastated due to the pandemic once again retreated and advocated the interests of the Travel Trade Industry at the National Conference of State Tourism Ministers held between18th 20th of September at Dharamshala. The Conference was well attended by the Central State Ministers, and stalwarts of the Indian tourism industry, be it the travel agents, hospitality fraternity, tour operators, and senior representatives of various other verticals.

TAAI’s President, Jyoti Mayal, has always been at the forefront to highlight and bring to the notice of the highest echelons in the government the interests and issues faced by the Travel Trade.

Representing TAAI & on behalf of President Jyoti Mayal wherein the sentiments were reiterated at the Conference, Kulvinder Singh Kohli, Managing Committee Member, brought to the table the points which are the biggest hindrance to the growth of the Indian travel trade sector. In addition, he highlighted issues, which TAAI has been taking up with both State and Central levels for a long time now. Keeping the interests of the sector intact is what he emphasised, which was acknowledged by the Hon’ble Ministers attending the Conference.

While addressing the august gathering during the session on Stakeholders’ remarks, Kohli conveyed to the government the need of automating the registration process with the Ministry of Tourism. An association with the highest number of IATA-approved members has had a hard time registering with MoT. A body like IATA legitimises the authenticity of a company; however, our registration processes are so cumbersome that it consumes a lot of time and energy. And, in some cases, agents do not register www.tourismindia.org

and are therefore unable to take benefits attached to it.

On the point of providing adequate security to the travel trade from bankruptcy or default at the airline level, Kohli said that there is no security presently that the airlines have against their delayed payments. Citing the example of the pandemic, he added that the most hit always have been the Travel Agents. If an arrangement can be made to secure the interest of the travel trade, then this will protect our fraternity as well as the passengers/customer. He further added that the travel trade is not a financial institution supporting aviation.

For instance, when we pay in advance, be 23tickets then it in the form of security or for why can’t Low-Cost Carriers should have a security bond with the Government at the time of applying for a license based on per seat/per aircraft in the interest of travellers and trade.

Kohli also elaborated on the Airlines and Travel Agents model which is widely followed as per the IATA Passenger Sales Agreement signed by Agents with IATA. He informed the stakeholders that over the years the commissions have dropped from 9% to 5% to Zero as of today. None of the airlines is paying commissions to the Travel Agents other than Air India, the national carrier, whom our members

have always supported. And, with times changing and therefore post Covid era we need the government’s intervention in facilitating a revised and reworked model of remuneration, which could initially propose 5% of the total airfare, including all ancillary services of the airline that are booked by the agent. This shall ensure more transparency, and an equitable and profitable business amongst the trade, Kohli summed up.

Other important points related to mandatory Insurance, setting up a joint task force with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Ministry of Finance, etc. were shared by Kohli. His concluding remarks included the idea of having a Single Window System in-place where all States/UTs have a common presentation to share their offerings to travellers, be it domestic or international.

Kohli emphasised the fact that under PM’s Initiative of Swatch Bharat, there is NO check at all on cleanliness at places of worship, outside Monuments, hospitals, etc. During the 2 days of the Conference, the States presented clips showcasing their states but they are just photo shoots and portray a perfect picture.

Whereas in actuality when tourists do visit these places, they find a lack of cleanliness and piles of garbage here and there. The States should monitor this at each district level. Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Mr. G. Kishan Reddy in his closing remarks, acknowledged this fact and gave instructions to the State’s concerned departments.

While dwelling on Akhand Bharat a vision of India’s prime minister, Kohli further went on to say that all States should join hands to take India to the number one position in the world, a position our Ancestors commanded for Thousands of years prior to the advent of Mughals and the Britishers.

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STORY TELLING FESTIVAL AT UDAIPUR The 4th edition of Udaipur Tales International Story Telling Festival will take place on the 11th -12th and 13th of November 2022 at Bamboo Saa Resort Udaipur

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he 4th edition of Udaipur Tales International Story Telling Festival will take place on the 11th -12th and 13th of November 2022 at Bamboo Saa Resort Udaipur. Udaipur Tales International Story Telling Festival is an endeavor to popularize the oral tradition of storytelling. Three-day storytelling festival, founded by Ms. Sushmita Singha and Mr. Salil Bhandari who are firm believers in bringing back the art of storytelling which envisages a platform where the young and old can participate & enjoy storytelling and grow rich in values & experience.

The festival has become an astounding success with storytellers from across the globe taking the audience on a mesmeric journey. The event has emerged as one of the prime storytelling festivals in India.

Stories of the world echoed in the city of lakes when musicians and storytellers from around the globe took the audiences on a hypnotic journey.

The 4th edition of the festival will carve its magic and showcase different genres of Storytellers like Dr. Himanshu Bajpai Genre: Kissagoi, Prithviraj Choudhury Genre: Contemporary, Shantanu Guharay Genre: Murder & Mystery, Roohani Sisters, Genre: Sufi, Dr. Santhushya Fernando, Genre: Srilankan Stories, Susmita Mookherjee, Genre: Hues of 24

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Womanhood, Adhaar Khurana, Genre, Bittersweet political comedy, Saif Ali Khan (expected), Genre: History– history, romance, mystic, mystery, and an exclusive children’s segment.

A generous mix of folk art performances and fusion musical forms will add magical moments to the intimate edition of weaving magic with stories, spoken words, and live music.

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IATO REQUESTED PM TO INTERVENE IN E VISA ISSUE Indian Association of Tour Operators writes to Mr. Narendra Modi, Prime Minister requesting his intervention to restore e-Tourist Visa for the UK, Canada, and other important countries

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ndian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), a National body of approved tour operators in India writes to Mr. Narendra Modi, Prime Minister requesting his intervention to restore e-Tourist Visa for the UK, Canada, and other important countries The pandemic broke the back of the entire Hospitality sector but the worst hit has been the inbound tourism industry with the arrival of foreign tourists going down to a trickle. Now the pandemic seems to be over, with the Hospitality sector rebounding but a similar rebound seems to be eluding the inbound industry. There are multiple reasons for it like high airfares, restrictions on travel, and above all difficulty in procuring the visas. In this regard, IATO has made numerous representations and sent letters to the Tourism Home Affairs and External Affairs Ministry requesting the restoration of E-Visa for the UK, Canada, and other source markets as maximum foreign tourists travel to India from these countries. “Having failed to evoke any response from these ministries, we have written to the PM, hoping for a quick resolution” says Mr. Rajiv Mehra, President of IATO. It is well known that tourists decide well in advance about the destinations they will be traveling to and given the delay and difficulty in procuring Indian visas from source countries, the www.tourismindia.org

25 that was sector may not see the revival expected, and quite probable that they may travel to neighboring countries as it is easier to procure their visas. According to Mr. Mehra, “ IATO receives several requests from our members/foreign counterparts expressing their concern on the delay the intended tourists in the UK are facing in getting a Normal Visa for India as there is NO e-Tourist Visa at present. Appointments are not available to intending foreign tourists at the VFS Global offices in the UK. It is taking 6 to 8 weeks in the UK to get a Normal Indian Visa and even for that also appointments

by the VFS Global offices are not being given. Handling of Normal paper Visa for India by the Embassy in the UK/VFS Global is very discouraging and harassing for the tourists planning to come to India as it is taking 2 to 3 months to get a Normal Tourist Visa and that too after a lot of efforts”.

IATO is getting feedback that if the situation does not improve, foreign tour operators will stop selling Indian tour packages. Due to the Non-availability of E-Tourist Visa for the UK, Canada, and other source markets, we as a country are losing huge business as tourists from these countries are opting for alternative destinations. If this situation continues it will be a big loss for the Inbound tourism business and the entire season may be lost, causing further loss of foreign exchange earnings and loss of employment as one foreign tourist coming to India creates 9 jobs directly or indirectly.

“We are trying to recreate jobs for the trained tourism professionals who have lost their jobs due to Covid-19, but under the circumstances when there are a lot of problems in getting an Indian Visa, it is difficult to achieve our goal of recreating employment in the tourism sector and to contribute for the economic development through inbound tourism” adds Mr. Mehra.

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NEWS / AWARDS

MALDIVES, TAJ, CITRINE & UDS, WON SOUTH ASIAN TRAVEL AWARDS 2022 The 6th edition of South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2022 has concluded successfully at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi, the Maldives on September 29 – 30.

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he South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) for the year 2022 has been awarded on September 30 in a glittering award ceremony held at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi, the Maldives. The function was attended

by Mr. Faisal Naseem, Vice President of

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the Republic of Maldives, along with Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, Minister of Tourism, the Maldives, and other government officials in addition to several hoteliers and entrepreneurs from India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. The SATA 2022 witnessed the presentation of 106

Ms. Fathimath Afra, Chief Marketing Officer- Destination Promotion, Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation receiving the award for Maldives Tourism from Mr. Ismail Hameed, President, SATA and Mr. Suraj Khan, Vice President of SATA

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Mr. R.S. Nair, MD and Mr. Rajagopaal Iyer, CEO of UDS Hotels & Resorts receiving the SATA award from Mr. Yusuf Riffath, Managing Director, Capital Travel Group, Maldives awards in various categories; 44 gold awards, 48 silver awards, and six visitor’s choice awards.

Indian hospitality brands Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel & Spa, Uday Palace Convention Center, and Citrine Hospitality Ventures bagged the South Asian Travel Award (SATA) 2022, while Maldives properties have won 30 awards including 21 gold awards and nine silver awards. at the 6th edition of

the South Asian Travel Awards.

SATA has created a brand in South Asia, with respect, recognition, and appreciation of international brands as partners and sponsors. This year, SATA has decided to rename the Best CSR Program category to Mr. Nishan Seneviratne CSR Program of SATA, following the unprecedented global challenges and the loss of one of its beloved team members.

SATA is endorsed by over 16 regional and international bodies for its accredited work. The biggest hotelier brands in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry from the Maldives, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh participate annually in the event.

Mr. Faisal Naseem, Vice President of the Republic of Maldives in his inaugural address said how the tourism industry began in the Maldives 50 years ago

Mr. Samson Benedict, Director and Mr. Naveen Mohan, Director- Operation of Citrine Hospitality receiving the SATA award from Mr. Ismail Hameed, President, SATA

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NEWS / AWARDS

Mr. Ranjith Mathew, MD and Mr. Joseph Kodoth, Director of Nattika Beach Resort, Kerala receiving the SATA award for Leading Beach ResortIndia and still moving ahead of the other Asian and Pacific Ocean countries in the tourism sector. He stated that it was the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice of a few young pioneers who, against all odds, overcame many challenges and introduced tourism to the country. He also added that the Maldives tourism industry and the government has big expectation in the coming season and all the preparation has been completed to welcome our guest from across the world to this beautiful island paradise.

According to Mr. Suraj Khan, Vice President of SATA in his opening remarks for the event, “It gives me great joy and excitement to have this opportunity to gather again and celebrate the finest

of hospitality in South Asia after the pandemic brought our lives to a standstill. It has been very encouraging to see that the participation has grown over the years and we have a lot of support from the travel fraternity across the South Asian region.”

Mr. Ismail Hameed, President of SATA handed over the ‘Leading Destination Promoter’ award to Citrine Hospitality, and Mr. Hussain Aman, Director of Sales Hawks awarded @vanyaholidayresort the ‘Leading Jungle Resort’ title in the presence of His Excellency Faisal Naseem, Vice President of the Republic of Maldives; Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, Minister of Tourism, Republic of the Maldives and

Mr. Sanjay Basu, Founder and Chairman, Adventure River Cruises and Far Horizon Tours receiving the SATA award for Leading River Cruise - India Mr. Sooraj Khan, Vice President, SATA. Gold award winners are Best CSR Program: Dusit Thani Maldives,Leading Adventure Service Provider: Best Dives Maldives, Leading Liveaboard: Scubaspa Maldives,Leading Beach Villa Hotel/Resort: Movenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives,Leading Dive Center/Brand: Divepoint Maldives,Leading GSA: Ace Aviation

Mr. Jackson Peter, Managing Director, Bond Safari Adventure, Kovalam receiving the SATA award 28

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Services Maldives,Leading Tourist Air Transport Provider: Trans Maldivian Airways,Leading Surf Hotel/Resort: Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi,Leading Travel Agent – Outbound: Ace Travels Maldives, Leading Family Resort: Dusit Thani Maldives, Leading Designer Hotel/ Resort: Cocoon Maldives, Leading PSA: Ace Travels Maldives, Leading Dive Resort: Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Leading Yacht Marina Hotel/Resort: Crossroads Maldives, Leading Transport

Mount Xanadu Resort in Ambalavayal, Wayanad, Kerala receiving the SATA award for Leading Theme Resort- India Maagiri Hotel, Leading F&B Hotel/ Resort: Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives, Leading Heritage: Equator Village, Leading Luxury Hotel/Resort: LUX South Ari Atoll, Leading Wedding Hotel/Resort: Cocoon Maldives, Leading Wellness & Spa Resort: Heritance Aarah, Most Romantic Resort: Summer Island Resort SATA also presented six visitor’s choice awards. Maldives won the Leading Honeymoon Destination, while India won the Leading Heritage Destination and Leading MICE Destination.

Nepal won Leading Adventure Destination, Bangladesh won Emerging Destination, and Sri Lankan Airlines won Leading International Airline.

Mr Bobben Mathew MD & CEO Vanya Holiday Resort, Nelliyampathy in Palakkad, Kerala receiving the SATA award for Laeding Jungle Resort in India Provider (Land/Sea): Jalboot Marine Services, Leading Liveaboard Brand: Voyages Maldives,Leading Airport Hotel: Equator Village,Leading Beach Resort: Sun Island Resort & Spa, Leading Eco-Friendly Resort: LUX South Ari Atoll, Leading Guesthouse/Tourist Inn: Reveries Maldives, Leading Supervision Agent: Avia Maldives Silver award winners: are the Leading All-Inclusive Resort: Heritance Aarah, Leading Boutique Hotel/Resort: Reveries Maldives, Leading Business Hotel:

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Mr. Saumitra Singh, MD of The Tigress Resort & Spa, Rathambore National Park, Rajasthan receiving the award for Leading Wildlife Resort in India www.tourismindia.org

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TRAVEL REPORT

By Ajai Kumar K.S

“KOASTAL KARNATAKA” DESTINATION ORIENTATION TRIP BY KTF Karnataka Tourism Forum has conducted a Destination Orientation programe to explore coastal Karnataka from Sep. 25-28. 2022

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n connection with familiarizing and promoting the Coastal Karnataka belt, a destination Orientation Tour was conducted by Karnataka Tourism Forum (KTF) in Bangalore from 25th to 28th Sep 2022). The event was supported

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by the Department of Tourism, Govt of Karnataka, and comprises 18 noted Tour Operators and 2 travel media participants.

Two KTF officials Mr. Ravi, Vice President of KTF, and Ms. RamyaRavindra, the Manager of KTF led the trip.

The Destination Orientation Tour started with a visit to Sai Vishram Resorts, a beachside resort 4 km away from Byndoor near Udupi. The resort nestles among an unpruned garden with numerous trees and bushes right at the

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beachside. The group was received by Mr. Raghavendra. After a sumptuous breakfast, the group set out on their journey for Karwar.

The island named Kurumad Island is spotted amidst the Arabian Sea. Its shape looks like a tortoise, the green hill-like Island is called Kurumad Island by local folk. A 03 hours journey took the KTF group to the banks of the River Kali where it gets copulated with the Arabian Sea. Another 20-minute-long journey by a ferry boat that tossed over the turbulent waters of the river mouth took the group to the only private island in India The island is a tall hill surrounded by sea all around with a 15-roomed beautiful CINTACOR ISLAND RESORT. The group members were transported together by a buggy and a gypsy onto the crown of the island where the reception and the restaurant are situated along with a beautiful swimming pool overlooking the Arabian Sea. One can spot many of the Islands from the resort. The rooms are nestled among the fabulous backdrop of wild trees. Every room offers a unique “room with a view” experience. The restaurant offers a plethora of local and

North Indian cuisine.

Water sports activities stole the evening. The red sky afar the horizon with a blue swimming pool and White-chested Grey seagulls sway their wings as if exhibiting their skills before the guests are memorable views. The morning trek through the hills is an experience by itself with breathtaking viewpoints and Subash, the accompanied naturalist, made it educational with his knowledge and passion. After breakfast, the group is ferried back to the mainland to catch the bus for the next destination, Dandeli.

It was a three hours long journey through the thick wilderness of Forests, rich shadows, and meadows of tall rising trees that brought the group to Dandeli Kali Adventure Camp, run by the Karnataka State-owned group of Jungle Lodges and Resorts. The Dandeli Kali Adventure Camp was situated right on the banks of River Kali among the high towering trees. The rooms were arranged in stand-alone Huts. The group’s arrival was awaited by the local school students assembled there to celebrate the 27th of September, World Tourism Day. As their visit’s memorial the KTF Destination

Orientation Tour group has planted many trees in the surroundings of the resort. The team led by Mr. Ravi led the plantation of trees as their mission to protect nature. While addressing the group, he revealed his love for nature and social commitment. A special Campfire was followed by a grand dinner with an array of local Kannada cuisine.

The morning mist has given way to the heat of the group members’ enthusiasm to visit the nearby “Hornbill Sanctuary”.

The sighting of Hornbills is the rarest view in any forest. But in Dandeli Forests the grey hornbills were seen in abundance like the usual sighting of crows everywhere. , Five Out of the Nine prominent Indian varieties of Hornbills are there in the sanctuary. Everyone was busy spotting and “shooting” white-breasted Grey Hornbills with their brooding eyes and cameras. The highly knowledgeable naturalist Mr. Pramod Naik, a Post Graduate in Zoology led the visits by showering his extensive knowledge about the flora and fauna of the destination.

The next goal of the group was to experience “White-water Rafting”, in

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TRAVEL REPORT the locale of Dandeli, the only spot in South India to facilitate unique Whitewater Rafting. Both the calm and fury moods of River Kali were experienced and accomplished by White-water Rafting arranged by KTF as a part of the Destination Orientation Tour. A well-trained team handled the rafting experience with full safety measures that showcased another Unique Selling Product before the Tour operators. White water rafting is yet to be promoted with vigorous marketing among international and national travelers. The rafting ended into yet another resort on the banks of River Kali, named “Hornbill Resort”, again nestled among innumerable tall trees.

The lunch was at a nature resort named “Jungle County”, a haven in a remote plantation. The group members were enthralled by the presentation of Mr. Sachin Kamat, the owner of the resort with excellent hospitality. There was yet another array of local Karnataka Cuisine to covet the palates of the group members. The resort with its rustic feel is primarily meant for serious nature

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lovers and was well-appreciated by the group members. Then we proceeded to Bangalore, which was a night drive, and visited The Fern, a Hubli-based Hotel for dinner.

Mr. Ravi, Managing Director of Arjun Tours & travels, Bangalore, is a seasoned veteran tour operator that spans multiple decades and shares his industry expertise with his fellow travellers. Mr. Ravi exclaims his concerns over the relatively minimal influx of international travellers to India by comparing his recent visits to South Africa. Ravi says “the highest airfare is the biggest hurdle now. Plus, insecure feelings persist among western travellers about health. The newly found fears are the social and health-wise stigma as a result of the COVID pandemic”.

Still, he hopes that a new dawn of postCOVID Tourism is imminent.

A team member Sapna, the Bangalorebased tour operator who is the owner of Eastern Travel Needz is enthralled by her Kostal Karnataka Destination Orientation Tour. Swapna says “as my very name suggests it’s a dream for me to be on the

island as if I am in a trance whether I am in the wilderness or the beach resort. The togetherness of the greenery around and the proximity of blue-waters gives me an impression of a once-in-a-lifetime experience” The Group members were accompanied by a Holland-based Vlogger Ms. Ivana Perkovic. The members of the group are reputed Tour Operators and Travel Agents based in Bangalore. The group members were Mr. Ramesh from Ramesh Tours, Ms. Shree Prada from Globus Family of Brands, Mr. Krishna Menon Nirva Tour and Travel, E T Suresh from Alliance Travels, Ms. Suman Puri from Just Travel, Ms. Swetha B P from G R Holidays INC, Mr. Arvind from Crimsom Holidays, Mr. Ajay Kumar Singh from “ WAH! ”, Mr. Dinesh Bez from Three Friends Travels International, Mr. S H Ravindra from Inchara Holidays, Mr. Sudhir K R from Viz Tour, Mr. Krishna Prasad from Teem Travel World Pvt.Ltd, Ms. Vinutha Kiran from Travel Lounge Inc, Ms. Liza Shajan from MapNgo, Ms. Geetha Menon from Krsnaa Vacations, Ms. Deepthi K Nambiar from

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Leisure Infinite Tours and Events, Ms. Sapna from Eastern Travel Needz, Ms. Ranjeetha Raj from Yaana.and Mr. Ajai

Kumar K S (TourismIndia).

Karnataka Tourism forum founded in 2001 has a mission to bring light to the

untapped potential tourism attractions in Karnataka and Mr. Sanjar Imam as the president leads all dynamic endeavours of KTF.

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NEWS / NATIONAL

SITGF CELEBRATED WORLD TOURISM DAY South India Tourist Guides Federation, India Tourism Kochi office, Muziris Heritage Projects and KDS jointly organised the WOrld Tourism Day celebrations at Kochi

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s part of the World Tourism Day 2022, a full-day celebration was organised at Muziris in Kerala by the South Indian and Kerala body of the Regional Level Guides, in collaboration and support with India Tourism Kochi, Muziris heritage project, and Kottappuram Integrated Society (KIDS).

The celebration kicked off with a boat cruise from Varapuzha to Kottappuram with stakeholders from the Tourism

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industry on board. A seminar was also organised on the theme of World Tourism day2022 “Rethinking Tourism.”.The seminar has been addressed by Mr. Sejoe Jose ( IATO Chairman, Southern Chapter), Mr. Ravikumar (India Tourism), Mr. Jayachandran ( President TGFSI), Ms. Sajana (Muziris heritage project), and Fr. Jojo (Kottappuram Integrated Development Society, KIDS). The welcome address has been delivered

by Jairaj and the vote of thanks by Arun Kumar.

Major tour operators from Kerala, regional level tour guides and other industry stakeholders were all taken part in the event.

Mr. Sejoe Jose (IATO Chairman, Southern Chapter) addresing the gathering

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TALK SHOW ON “POSSIBILITIES OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN TOURISM” WebCRS Cochin and Kolenchery Area Pravasi Society jointly organised as part of WTD celebrations at Cochin, Kerala

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orld Tourism Day, celebrated on 27th September 2022 reminds us of the key role played by tourism in generating employment, social responsibility, and economic growth. As a part of World Tourism day, Kolenchery Area Pravasi Society and WebCRS Cochin have conducted a talk show on “Possibilities of Entrepreneurship in Tourism” at Kaloor International Stadium, Cochin in Kerala.

The main focus of the talk show was how Kerala as a state is the right destination to create new Entrepreneurs in the Tourism sector, which will enable more employment opportunities and economic growth in the ever-evolving

Kerala Tourism.

Connecting this year’s World Tourism Theme “Rethinking Tourism”, Mr. Neelkanth Pararath, founder of WebCRS mentioned the importance of promoting Tourism products by inspiring people to visit places in the country through storytelling and warm hospitality rather than discount sales. He shared the importance of value-based promotion for creating a sustainable business environment to attract investments and offer returns to investors in the sector.

Mr. Nizar Ibrahim, Chairman of Kolenchery Area Pravasi Society highlighted the economic importance of the tourism sector in Kerala and its

economic impact and how it can uplift the entire livelihood & lifestyle of the local community, and why NRIs should look towards developing enterprises in the Tourism Sector.

Mr. Praveen Muraleedharan, Founder of Ecotone Camps shared his experience and opportunities in experiential Tourism in post-Covid markets. He mentioned the aspects of Sustainable Tourism Products that would be the future of the Tourism Market in the country and how each travel trade plays an important role while promoting tourism products to the world.

Mr. Sunil Varghese, an NRI investor mentioned the ease of doing business in Kerala, especially in the booming industry such as the Tourism Sector.

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NEWS / NATIONAL

THE VIVANTA MEGHALAYA INAUGURATED IN SHILLONG The first ever five-star hotel was inaugurated by Mr.Conrad K. Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya

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n a historic occasion, Meghalaya’s first ever five-star hotel, the Vivanta Meghalaya, Shillong was inaugurated by Mr.Conrad K. Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, The event was attended by cabinet Ministers, the Hon’ble member of Rajya Sabha

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from Meghalaya, the Chief Secretary, the Director General of Police, the Chairperson, MTDC, senior government officials, and members of civil society.

Mr.Conrad K. Sangma said, “This is a truly momentous occasion in the history of Meghalaya. The works for the hotel

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had been going on since 1986 and was completed only after a strong push by the current government”. He congratulated and thanked all the stakeholders for completing the project despite the COVID-induced disruptions.

With a built-up area of about 8,800 sq. m., the hotel has 101 rooms and other facilities including a specialty restaurant, coffee shops, bar, retail shops, and a banquet hall. It is owned by the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and has been leased out for a period of 33 years on a PPP mode to be operated by the IHCL. The Chief Minister also said that the Vivanta Meghalaya, Shillong along with the upcoming hotel Courtyard by Marriott will give a huge boost to highvalue tourism in the State. This model will be further replicated going forward to transform Meghalaya into the most preferred destination for ecotourism.

The Chief Minister said that the Vivanta Meghalaya, Shillong will soon be open for guests and would herald an era of luxury tourism in the State and will go a long way in fulfilling the aspirations of the residents of the State.

Mr.Conrad K. Sangma reiterated his vision of transforming Meghalaya into the top 10 states within the next 10 years and said that tourism is at the core of realizing

this vision. He said that the Government is developing tourism on a hub and spoke model wherein Sohra, Jowai, Shillong, Umiam, and Tura will act as hubs and nearby rural tourist destinations will be developed as spokes. In line with this strategy, the Government has taken a number of initiatives to augment the accommodation infrastructure in the State. These include the construction of large resorts and tourism infrastructure in Sakaladuma in West Garo Hills, Shnongpdeng in West Jaintia Hills, Sohra in East Khasi Hills, Mawlyndep and Nongmahir in Ribhoi, Nongkhnum in West Khasi Hills, Thadlaskien in West Jaintia Hills and Pelgawari in South West Garo Hills. Tourism infrastructure and amenities at a cost of Rs. 5 -10 crores each, will also be set up in several villages.

To further augment the accommodation infrastructure, the ‘Homestay Scheme’ has been launched, wherein 2,500 accommodation units will be built over the next five years in convergence with the PMEGP. A subsidy of 35% is being given on loans of up to Rs. 10 lakh by the State government which is over and above the 35% subsidy being given by the Government of India under PMEGP. The residents stand to earn a monthly revenue of up to Rs. 50,000 by paying an EMI of just Rs. 5,000. The Government

has received over 480 applications and has sanctioned Rs. 7.1 crores to build about 75 homestays.

In addition to accommodation infrastructure, the connectivity infrastructure is also being upgraded to decongest Shillong and provide connectivity to new destinations. A fleet of electric buses and luxury tourist vehicles will be introduced to add capacity to the transport sector. Further, the works for the iconic Shillong Peak Ropeway, being taken up at a cost of Rs. 140 crores, are also expected to commence by the end of this year.

The State faces a shortage of highquality rooms and the presence of fivestar hotels in Shillong would allow the government to attract high-value tourists, and host national and international music and sports events, and other seminars and conferences. The Chief Minister also spoke about the ‘Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP)’ as part of which regular musical performances are being organized in Shillong, Sohra, Tura, and Jowai. Apart from providing livelihood opportunities to the artists and entrepreneurs, MGMP is also playing an important role in promoting the musical culture and heritage of the State and at the same time is also providing a unique experience for the tourists.

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AIR INDIA UNVEILS TRANSFORMATION PLAN: VIHAAN. AI Comprehensive multi-stage transformation roadmap towards becoming a world class global airline with an Indian heart

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ir India has unveiled its futuristic and comprehensive transformation plan, to establish itself, once again, as a world-class global airline with an Indian heart – the absolute best in class in customer service, technology, product, reliability, and in hospitality. The plan is fittingly titled “Vihaan.AI”, which in Sanskrit signifies the dawn of a new era,

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with identified objectives for Air India over the next 5 years.

As part of Vihaan.AI, Air India has put into place a detailed roadmap with clear milestones focussing on dramatically growing both its network and fleet, developing a completely revamped customer proposition, improving reliability and on-time performance, and

taking a leadership position in technology, sustainability, and innovation, while aggressively investing behind the best industry talent. Over the next 5 years, Air India will strive to increase its market share to at least 30% in the domestic market while significantly growing the international routes from the present market share. The plan is aimed at putting

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Air India on a path to sustained growth, profitability, and market leadership.

The Airline’s CEO, Mr. Campbell Wilson along with senior management members who are together driving this transformation, unveiled the Vihaan.AI plan with the entire organization through Workplace, its virtual communication and engagement platform. Over the coming days and weeks, the management team will engage employees across regions, departments, and locations through a series of physical and hybrid sessions.

Vihaan.AI has been developed after extensive feedback from Air India employees on their aspirations and hopes for the airline’s growth. Vihaan.AI focuses on five key pillars, exceptional customer experience, robust operations, industry-best talent, industry leadership, and commercial efficiency and profitability. While the immediate focus of the airline remains on fixing the basics and readying itself for growth (Taxiing Phase), the more medium-to-long-term focus will be on building for excellence and establishing scale to become a global industry leader (Take Off & Climb phases).

90 years ago, young JRD Tata piloted the first flight of the airline that would become Air India. Since then, Air India and

its employees have persevered through many challenges before its homecoming back to the Tata group. Vihaan.AI is the roadmap to restoring Air India on the global map, making it the world-class, digital, Indian airline it is meant to be.

Commenting on Vihaan.AI, Mr. Campbell Wilson, MD, and CEO, of Air India said, “This is the beginning of a historic transformation for Air India and the dawn of a new era. We are laying the foundation for a brave new Air India, with a renewed sense of purpose and incredible momentum. Vihaan.

AI is our transformation plan to make Air India the world-class airline it once was, and it deserves to be again. We are absolutely focussed on being recognized as a world-class airline serving global customers, with a proudly Indian heart.”

“The transformation has already started – a slew of initiatives in areas like refurbishing cabins, serviceable seats, and in-flight entertainment systems are already underway. We are also adopting proactive maintenance and refining flight schedules to enhance on-time performance. Our fleet expansion will involve a combination of both narrowbodied and wide-bodied aircraft to cater to varied network needs. The excitement and shared commitment to drive Vihaan.

Mr. Campbell Wilson, MD & CEO, Air India Ltd. ai is palpable across the organisation and stakeholders will recognise the changes as the new face of Air India emerges,” added Mr.Wilson.

AIR INDIA

BOOSTS DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS

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ir India has signed leases and letters of intent for 25 Airbus narrow-body and 5 Boeing widebody aircraft to augment its existing fleet in the near term. These new aircraft, which will enter service in late 2022, will increase the airline’s fleet by over25%.

Not counting the 10 long-grounded narrow-body and 6 wide-body aircraft that have been returned to service in recent months, these new aircraft mark the first major fleet expansion since AirIndia’s acquisition by the Tata Group earlier this year.

The aircraft being leased include twenty-one Airbus A320neos, four Airbus A321neos, and five Boeing B777200LRs. The B777-200LRs will join the fleet between December 2022 and March

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2023 and will be deployed on routes from Indian metro cities to the United States of America. Mumbai will see the addition of flights to San Francisco as well as to both of the New York area’s international airports, Newark Liberty 39and John F Kennedy, while Bangalore will receive a 3x weekly service to San Francisco. These aircraft will result in Air India offering Premium Economy haul flights for the first time.

The 4 A321 aircraft are expected to join the Air India fleet in the first quarter of the calendar year 2023, while the 21 A320 will be inducted in the second half of 2023. These aircraft will be deployed in domestic sectors as well as to short-haul international destinations.

Commenting on the fleet expansion,

Mr. Campbell Wilson, CEO & Managing Director, of Air India, said, “After a long time without significant growth, Air India is delighted to resume expanding Its fleet and global footprint. These new aircraft, together with existing aircraft being returned to Service, address an immediate need for more capacity and connectivity and mark a strong step forward. Air India has exciting expansion and renewal plans, of which these new aircraft are just the beginning.”

Air India’s narrow-body fleet currently stands at 70 aircraft, of which 54 are in service; the remaining 16 aircraft will progressively return to service by early 2023. Similarly, Air India’s wide-body fleet currently stands at 43 aircraft, of which 33 are operational. The rest will return to service by early 2023.

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NEWS / AVIATION

AIR INDIA DEEPENS CONNECT TO US AND UK 20 additional flights per week and strengthens operations to the US with 40 weekly flights; Enhanced frequencies to connect London, Birmingham, San Francisco

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ir India announced 20 additional flights every week to Birmingham, London, and San Francisco, as part of the airline’s ongoing endeavor to reclaim its position as a leader on the international aviation map. The additional flights to these 3 global destinations will be phased from October to December this year.

With 5 additional flights a week to Birmingham, 9 other flights to London, and 6 different flights a week to San Francisco, Air India will be able to offer over 5,000 additional seats every week to customers and ensure ample choice in

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terms of connectivity, convenience, and cabin space.

Air India’s current schedule of 34 flights every week to the UK will go up to 48 flights. Birmingham will receive extra five flights per week, three from Delhi and two additional from Amritsar. London will receive nine additional weekly flights, of which, five are from Mumbai, three from Delhi, and one from Ahmedabad. Altogether, seven Indian cities will now have non-stop Air India flights to the UK’s capital. Flights from India to the United States will increase from 34 to 40 per week. Air India will now

connect Mumbai with San Francisco with a thrice-weekly service, and reinstate a three-times-weekly Bengaluru operation. This takes Air India’s San Francisco offering from 10 to 16 weekly, with non-stop service to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD, of Air India, said, “As Air India reinvents itself under the Vihaan.AI transformation programme, adding frequency and improving connectivity from major Indian cities to more international destinations is a significant focus. This sizeable frequency increase to the US and the UK, as well as the addition of new city pairs and improved aircraft cabin interiors, comes just 10 months after Air India’s acquisition by the Tata Group. It is a clear signal of our intent, and an early step towards a much bigger aspiration.”

In addition to leasing new aircraft, Air India has been working to restore existing narrow-body and wide-body aircraft to the operating fleet. Prior to the expansion described above, the airline has already enabled frequency increases between Delhi and Vancouver as well as the addition of numerous domestic services. Unmatched customer service and convenience are one of the five identified pillars of Vihaan.AI, Air India’s transformational roadmap.

The other pillars of Vihaan.AI include robust operations, industry leadership, commercial efficiency and profitability, and attracting the best industry talent. www.tourismindiaonline.com

AIR INDIA, AIRASIA INDIA AND VISTARA SIGNED MOU WITH CSIR-IIP Tata Group airlines commit to working together towards sustainable aviation and collaborating for a low carbon future

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he airline companies of the Tata group – Air India, AirAsia India, and Vistara signed an MoU with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Indian Institute of Petroleum to collaborate and work together on the research, development, and deployment of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). The focus of the MoU is the exploration of Single Reactor HEFA Technology for Drop-in liquid Sustainable Aviation and Automotive Fuel (DILSAAF). The MOU also outlines the intent of the signatories to work together in a variety of other areas related to sustainable aviation.

The impact of the continued use of petroleum-derived fuel for aviation is considerable with greenhouse gas and carbon emissions being of significant concern across the globe. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions from their operations by 2050 in line with the objectives of the Paris agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°C. According to IATA, the aviation industry’s net-zero carbon emissions target is focused on delivering a maximum reduction in emissions at source, with the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) contributing around 65% of the reduction in emissions, in addition to innovative new propulsion technologies, and other efficiency improvements.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel is made from sustainable resources, such as forestry and agricultural waste and used cooking oil, and can be blended with fossil jet fuel www.tourismindia.org

to reduce emissions. It is a ‘drop-in’ fuel, meaning it can be added with no changes needed to the aircraft.

CSIR - Indian Institute of Petroleum is located at Dehradun and is dedicated to R&D in the hydrocarbon sector. Its charter is to provide competitive and sustainable technologies and products to meet the requirements of the ever-growing energy sector and develop capacity and capability in new energy areas such as bio, hydrogen, and solar energy and their innovative combination.

The Tata Sustainability Group (“TSG”) 41 serves as a Centre of Excellence and nodal resource on sustainability for Tata group companies. It has, since its formation in

2014, been partnering with Tata group companies to embed sustainability in their business strategies and transition them to a low-carbon scenario. The collaboration on Sustainable Aviation Fuels is being coordinated by TSG working closely with the Tata Airline Companies and CSIR-IIP. The Tata Group recently outlined a transformative vision on sustainability which envisages the Group becoming Net Zero by 2045. The Tata group has been ranked as the top Sustainability Leader in the Asia Pacific and the only Asian company to appear among the top 15 corporates globally as per the GlobeScan Sustainability Leaders Survey, 2022.

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NEWS / AVIATION

NEW BENGALURU TO SYDNEY FLIGHTS TAKE OFF QF68 will cut nearly three hours off the current fastest travel time between the two cities and significantly boost connectivity between India and New South Wales

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ustralia’s national airline Qantas has launched a new route from Bengaluru (BLR) to Sydney (SYD), providing the first direct connection between Southern India and Australia by any airline. QF68 will cut nearly three

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hours off the current fastest travel time between the two cities and significantly boost connectivity between India and New South Wales.

Since the announcement of the new service earlier this year, the route has

seen strong demand, with both the outbound and inbound inaugural flights sold out in all cabins. The new services will provide new tourism opportunities for Bengaluru and India, with a direct gateway for Australian tourists to

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experience all that India has to offer. For people living in Bengaluru and southern India, it’s a convenient non-stop flight to Sydney for a dream holiday or to visit friends and family.

Qantas Domestic and International CEO Andrew David said the flights will boost tourism and economic relations and opportunities between Australia and India.“The addition of Bengaluru to our route map deepens our ties with India and follows the launch of direct services from Australia to Delhi last year which has also proven popular. Qantas is now the only airline offering direct flights between Australia’s two largest cities and the north and south of India.”

Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL) Chief Strategy and Development Officer, Satyaki Raghunath said the start of the new Qantas Bengaluru – Sydney route was a historic moment for BLR Airport.“It gives us immense pleasure to welcome Australia’s national airline Qantas to BLR Airport. This is a historic

occasion considering that it is the first ever non-stop service connecting South and Central India to Australia.

The flights will reduce travel time over existing options and will make access to Australia and points beyond, including New Zealand and the Pacific Islands easy, particularly for leisure travellers, corporates, sports enthusiasts, and students who go there for higher studies.

“This connection is even more special because it is the eighth Oneworld carrier to begin operations from BLR Airport. The addition of this flight also puts the focus back on BLR Airport’s commitment to introducing new routes and opportunities for tourism and trade between South India and Australia.”

Qantas has recently launched the first phase of its codeshare partnership with IndiGo. There are currently 11 destinations available for Qantas customers to connect with on IndiGo to and from Bengaluru, including Mumbai, Goa, Kolkata, and Chennai. The codeshare will continue to roll out over the coming months, broadening access and making it easier for Qantas customers in India to connect with the new direct flights to Sydney.

Qantas will fly an A330 aircraft from Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport to Sydney four times per week on a Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

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NEWS / AVIATION

INDIGO JOINS WEF SUSTAINABILITY CAMPAIGN ‘CLEAR SKIES FOR TOMORROW’ IndiGo has been focused on sustainable operations for a few years and launched its first ESG report - IndiGo in 2021

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ndiGo becomes a signatory in the Clear Skies for Tomorrow, India Coalition campaign, spearheaded by the World Economic Forum.

IndiGo’s commitment to deployment of sustainable initiatives will help in achieving a significant scale for SAF to gain a critical mass and bring in cost-efficiency for widespread adoption in India.

IndiGo has been focused on sustainable operations for a few years and launched its first ESG report – IndiGo in 2021. Earlier this year, IndiGo operated its brand new A320 NEO flight from Toulouse, France to New Delhi on 18 Feb 2022 with 10% blend of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) under the IndiGo Green initiative.

On the occasion, Ronojoy Dutta, Chief Executive Officer and Wholetime Director, IndiGo said, “We are pleased to announce that we have joined the Clear Skies for Tomorrow, India Coalition campaign in-line with our commitment towards sustainable operations. Accepting this call to action is critical to reduce the impact of operations on the environment and provide a better future for generations to come. We also believe it is important for us to contribute back to the community we serve and provide our signature on-time, courteous and hassle-free service at affordable fares, onboard our lean clean flying machines.”

Lauren Uppink Calderwood, Head of Aviation, Travel and Tourism Industries said, “Sustainable Aviation Fuels are one of the key technologies available to government and industry in decarbonizing aviation. But development and production are currently limited due to high capital costs and its reliance on tech44

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nology that is yet to be proven at scale. Still, we are encouraged by the progress made by industry commitments, including IndiGo committing to sustainable flying. Together, we can build pathways and solutions in our commitment to net zero in aviation.”

Clean Skies for Tomorrow, launched in January 2019, provides a crucial mechanism for top executives and public leaders, across and beyond the aviation value chain, to align on a transition to sustainable aviation fuels as part of a meaningful and proactive pathway for the industry to achieve carbon-neutral flying.

Their goal is commercially viable SAF production (both bio and synthetic) at scale for industry-wide adoption by 2030 to support aviation’s overall net-zero pathway by 2050.

This is a global call to action to governments and industry leaders to provide comprehen-

sive policy mechanisms, targeted investments, and fiscal support to accelerate the supply and use of SAF technologies to reach 10% of global jet aviation fuel supply by 2030.

The initiative has grown from 8 founding members in 2019 to a global coalition of +80.

Clean Skies for Tomorrow consists of 5 work streams with several dedicated sub work streams. CST continues to be led by the World Economic Forum and a collaborative secretariat of the Forum and Energy Transitions Commission, Rocky Mountain Institute and McKinsey and Company. CST’s work streams enable the codesign, piloting and scaling of policy, financial and market-based mechanisms around the world for accelerating the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels as part of the sector’s global net-zero energy transition.

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INDIGO TO BOLSTER CONNECTIVITY BETWEEN INDIA AND MIDDLE EAST Announces new Hyderabad-Riyadh connection from October 30 and commences new direct flights between Mumbai and Ras Al Khaimah

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ndiGo has commenced new daily direct flights between Mumbai and Ras Al Khaimah, starting from September 22, 2022. Ras Al Khaimah is the 100th overall destination and 11th in the Middle East in the 6E network. Ras Al Khaimah was also named as Gulf Tourism Capital for the years 2020 and 2021 by Gulf Cooperation Council.

In its bid to strengthen international connectivity, IndiGo has also announced a new daily direct flight from Hyderabad-Riyadh along with additional frequencies on Hyderabad-Doha and Mangalore-Dubai routes.

Mumbai and Ras Al Khaimah This new route

and additional frequencies will enhance connectivity between India and the Middle East.

Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Chief Strategy and Revenue Officer, IndiGo said, “We are pleased to strengthen our network by introducing new international flights and frequencies. The new connection to Riyadh will enhance business connectivity and easy access to tourist attractions like Al Masmak Fortress, National Museum, Heet Caves, Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Grand Mosque, and Kingdom Center Tower, among others.

In addition, these flights will make travel affordable to the Middle East through direct

connections and additional capacity. We will strive to stay true to our promise of affordable fares, on-time performance, courteous and hassle-free service across a wide network, and onboard our lean clean flying machines.”

These flights are designed to cater to business and leisure travellers who are constantly on the lookout for new and affordable flying options to access destinations that help in building businesses and are known for their tourist attractions.

The introduction of these flights will further bolster the airline’s international connectivity.

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NEWS / NATIONAL

BOOKING.COM INSPIRES SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL WITH GENZ STAR SHANAYA KAPOOR AS ITS NEXT EXPLORER A

s travel roars back to life, the time is now for travellers to reconnect with the destinations, cultures, people and experiences that they love. With the aim of inspiring us all to rediscover ourselves and reignite our desire to travel, Booking.com, one of the world’s leading travel brands, launches the second edition of its award-winning Booking Explorers campaign today and celebrates the adventurers and trailblazers among us who have kept the spirit of travel alive, despite the struggles and disruptions we continue to face postpandemic.

Through the Booking Explorers campaign, Booking.com is bringing to life the compelling stories of 5 explorers across APAC, including the up-and-coming Bollywood actress Shanaya Kapoor, along with other leading travel personalities from Australia, South Korea, Vietnam and Japan. As part of the campaign, these APAC explorers share their travel stories and desire to explore all things new and familiar, whether it’s in their own backyards or around their home countries. Shanaya Kapoor, who is gearing up for her acting debut, shares her love for India – its colourful cities and picturesque countryside, Instagram-worthy destinations 46

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and most importantly, the need for responsible and sustainable travel among GenZs. Through this year’s Explorers, Booking.com continues to celebrate the relentless spirit of travel, and their desire to keep experiencing and exploring all things new and familiar, whether it’s in their own backyards or around their home countries.

However as much of the world seeks to travel again, we recognise the need for sustainability: from avoiding single-use plastic and making smart, responsible choices when choosing stays, to transforming how and where we travel so that we minimise our impact on the destinations we visit; and hopefully leave our destinations greener than when we first arrived.

Apart from Shanaya, this year’s campaign features four new personalities across Asia Pacific.

Former MasterChef Australia grand finalist, Simon Toohey takes us on a culinary adventure through Victoria, Australia. Multidisciplinary artist MY Q brings us alive South Korea – from underground music scenes to contemporary art galleries. Natureloving lifestyle personality Tran Quang Dai advocates for sustainable living and travelling as he takes us through Vietnam. And finally,

Japanese supermodel Ai Tominaga, a familiar face in haute couture, shares her love for tranquillity, the beauty of nature, and the countryside.

“We want to inspire travellers in Asia Pacific through the rich stories of our Explorers,” said Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director for Asia Pacific.

“They invite us to dig deeper into the sights and cultures of the countries they call home. I hope their stories stir travellers everywhere to open their hearts and minds to new experiences and put sustainability at the forefront of all they do.”

Shanaya Kapoor, the India explorer for this campaign said, “I am really excited to associate with Booking. com and be a part of the Booking Explorer campaign that celebrates the relentless spirit of travel in a more meaningful and responsible way. I personally love to travel and I feel as a young actor trying to work on my craft there is no better drama school than to travel into the unknown, find inspiration, enter new cultures, meet new characters and learn from new friends. Even if you are not an actor but knowing yourself, finding out qualities about yourself, about your personality, you will always know one new thing when you travel and that for me is a great achievement.” www.tourismindiaonline.com

With a mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, Booking.com is committed to helping travellers rediscover the beauty of travel and reconnect with the experiences they love. Offering the widest choice, great value, and the easiest experience so travellers can book their perfect place to stay, Booking.com offers the means to get around from anywhere and on any device.

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Launches the second edition of Booking Explorers campaign to celebrate the relentless spirit of travel www.tourismindia.org

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NEWS / NATIONAL

HEALTH REFRESHING PROGRAMS AT ITOOZHI-THE CENTRE FOR COLLABORATIVE MEDICINE Itoozhi Ayurveda Hospitals in Kerala and Karnataka has a range of Ayurveda treatment options and residential treatments that come with luxury accommodation and recreational facilities

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he Centre for Collaborative Medicine located inside the Olde Bangalore Resort is a wellness destination for good mental and physical enhancement.

Itoozhi- Ayurvedic hospital is now part of the unique medical destination, the Centre for Collaborative Medicine has introduced Health Refreshing Programs through Ayurveda.

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For techniques to manage stress with an improved diet, ideal lifestyle choices, and enhanced emotional well-being and mental outlook, along with a spiritual detox, the Refreshing Health Program is a healing tool.

The refreshing health programs offered at Itoozhi have a multi-approach to work on various aspects of the body and mind.

The serene atmosphere amidst nature at Itoozhi nurtures body-mind and resets physical bio-rhythms and mental equilibrium.

At Itoozhi, Ayurvedic treatments are done through these programs; Abhayangam + Bhashpa Swedam,( specific Kerala Ayurvedic Massage using ayurvedic herbal oil applied all over the body which prevents early aging and relieves muscular aches and pain )Special Shirodhara (Pouring of medicated milk on the forehead in a continuous stream for a specific period). And PadabhyangamA very thorough and invigorating treatment for the lower legs and feet using medicated oil The whole treatment package comes with a stay at the Olde Bangalore Resort surrounded by an abundance of greenery and has unique tent-style cottages.

Facilities include a swimming pool, indoor badminton court, a gym, and even a rifle shooting range! The restaurants at the Olde Bangalore curate the menus as prescribed by the Ayurvedic doctors one would need to follow, but add a gourmet twist. Situated in the heart of a booming biosphere, it is a great way to resonate with nature to add to the experience. www.tourismindiaonline.com

ANJALI YADAV IAS TAKES CHARGE AS THE DIRECTOR OF JHARKHAND TOURISM Gets additional charge of MD, Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation

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s. Anjali Yadav IAS, the new Director of Tourism, at the Government of Jharkhand has taken responsibility last month, has been given additional charge of the Managing Director, of Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation in a recent bureaucratic reshuffle by the chief minister of the state Mr. Hemant Soren.

Prior to the appointment of the tourism director, she was serving as the Deputy Commissioner of the Chatra district. Ms. Anjali, a native of Jharkhand itself passed her Civil Services Exams in 2015 and was allotted the Nagaland Cadre. However, after getting married to the IAS Officer Mr. Bhor Singh Yadav, she was transferred to the Jharkhand cadre.

POLO CUP 2022

SPONSORSHIP INAUGURATION AT THE LEELA PALACE JAIPUR

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t was a star-studded weekend of Polo in the Pink City with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts celebrating its inaugural sponsorship of the royal sport in India with The Leela Maharaja Sawai Man Singh Polo Cup 2022, in a unique collaboration with Rajasthan Polo Club. Spotted at the event were Kajal Aggarwal, Elli AvrRam, and The Royal Family of Jaipur, The Leela Palace Jaipur hosted a Royal Soiree at Mohan Mahal which included an eclectic mix of royalty, glitterati, and well-known faces from the world of Polo.

(L-R) HH Maharaj Narendra Singh, Anuraag Bhatnagar, COO, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, Gautam Kitchlu, Kajal Aggarwal, Elli AvrRam, Pria Kataria Puri, Naveen Kataria _ The Leela Palace Jaipur Polo Event www.tourismindia.org

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NEWS / APPOINTMENTS

DR. DILEEP M.R. IS THE NEW DIRECTOR OF KITTS D r. Dileep M. R., a prominent tourism academician, and researcher has been appointed as the Director of the Kerala Institute of Travel & Tourism Studies (KITTS) under the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala on deputation. Dr.Dileep, who was the Associate Professor of Tourism and Vice Principal of Pulpally Pazassiraja College.

Dr. Dileep has worked as Tourism Faculty and System-Wi Coordinator for seven years in the Ministry of Higher Education, Sultanate of Oman. Dileep is also an alumnus of KITTS and former faculty of the same institution.

KITTS is an autonomous institute under the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala catering to the needs of the global tourism industry started on

SHERATON GRAND CHENNAI RESORT & SPA APPOINTS DEVA KUMAR AS EXECUTIVE CHEF 50

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September 27, 1988, as the southern chapter of the Indian Institute of Travel & Tourism Management of Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. This ISO certified (9001: 2008) institute conducts various courses and training programmes for both students and professionals in the Tourism industry and is the part of UNWTO global education initiative as a Knowledge Network member.

KITTS offers a highly challenging and rewarding experience for its students with its array of experienced faculty consisting of academicians as well as top-notch professionals from the tourism industry.

The success of KITTS’ endeavours is attributed to the ideal Government and private sector partnership.

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r.Deva Kumar is appointed as the Executive Chef at Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort &Spa with a combined working experience of 17 years with great knowledge, skills & innovation. Deva Kumar has worked with multiple brands in the industry such as The Oberois, InterContinental Hotels Group, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and The Park Hotels. Chef Deva hails from Ranipet a small town near Chennai, and having worked extensively in Chennai as a seasoned leader in Culinary, assured that he will bring a whole new spark to the Resort Food & Beverage.

When we asked Amit Kumar General Manager – of Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa, Mahabalipuram what he thinks about the new leader on his team – “We are excited about having a great talent onboard, it’s great seeing Devakumar joining our team, his collaboration and effort will elevate the Sheraton Food & Beverage experience to the next level”.

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BHAVANA SHAH DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & CORP. COMMUNICATIONS JW MARRIOTT BENGALURU PRESTIGE GOLFSHIRE RESORT

havana Shah is appointed as the Director of Marketing & Corporate Communications at the JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa. In her new role, Bhavana will lead and oversee marketing & communication strategies designed to promote this iconic property and its services. With her enriching experience of over 16 years, Bhavana is proficient at formulating and implementing awardwinning strategic communications, Events, Socialmedia, Branding, Internal & External communications, and marketing plans. She also has proven expertise in leading and a penchant for setting strategic direction for the exposure of brands, with a focus on market penetration, and increased brand recall, by putting together powerful strategic plans, and impactful frameworks, driving tactical marketing initiatives, and hosting ultra-luxury events.

Prior to joining JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa, Bhavana was associated with some of the most renowned brands such as Elior India, The Ritz-Carlton, The Leela Palace Bengaluru, Novotel & Hyderabad International Convention Centre.

AROKYADAS MAIMARULLA DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE OF SHERATON GRAND CHENNAI RESORT&SPA www.tourismindia.org

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rokyadas Maimarulla, is appointed as the Director of food and beverage at Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort &Spa. Arokyadas comes with an extensive 14 years of working experience, starting his career in his 51 birthplace Goa working in multiple cities and international brands across India, Arokyadas has great talent with multiple awards under his credit and winning the “person of the year” in Accor South Asia Awards 2016 for his immense contribution towards the food and beverage operations. With his vast amount of experience and knowledge and with the whole food and beverage operations under him, the guest experience at Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort &Spa will be elevated to the next level.

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NEWS / APPOINTMENTS

DIDIER JARDIN GENERAL MANAGER OF FOUR SEASONS RESORTS MALDIVES AT KUDA HURAA

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ith a focus on serene island living and the charm of a Maldivian village, Four Seasons Resorts Kuda Huraa is an award-winning luxury property that beckons guests with the welcoming embrace of a lagoon, flower gardens, a private spa island in a charming village setting. The luxury resort now welcomes Didier Jardin, a hospitality veteran who has been with the Four Seasons since 1994, as the resort’s new General Manager.

Born in La Ferte Bernard, France this sailor, diver, firefighter; skydiver, adrenaline-junkie, Didier Jardin’s formative years were spent in France’s Loire Valley, a region known for its extraordinary castles and for its Sancerre and Pouilly Fume wines.

With the epiphany that a career in hospitality would afford him the chance to see the world, he commenced a twoyear apprenticeship to become a finedining waiter, then moved to Paris to practice his craft. He spent three years studying hotel management earning a CFA Food and Beverage Diploma, from Chartres, France, and a Hotel Management Diploma, Lasalle College, Montreal.

“After graduation, marriage, and three cold winters, we were craving a warmer life. Somewhere with waterfalls, beaches, and rainforest,” Didier recalls. His wife and he packed backpacks and a tent – “as a back-up in case money ran out” – and flew to Hawaii. It was a bold move.

“I applied everywhere in the islands and got offers from a Mexican restaurant on the beach and Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Looking back, I made the right choice,” he says with a smile.

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Nearly three decades later, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is Didier’s tenth Four Seasons posting. From the beaches of Santa Barbara, Bora Bora, Mauritius, and Hualalai to the cityscapes of New York, Cairo, and Chicago – the birthplace of his twin daughters – he is well on his way to achieving his goal of working for Four Seasons in every region where the brand operates.

People are key to Didier’s definition of success. “Success is built upon the happiness of your employees: if you get that right, everything else will follow,” he states emphatically. As opening General Manager of the architectural marvel of Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, he traveled through 15 further countries hiring the right team. His belief? “You can build anything from scratch but you can’t create soul: that has to come from the people you hire.”

Talking of soul: “I came from a small village of just 200 people: Kuda Huraa reminds me of that,” he says of his island home. “That genuine sense of unity

and togetherness, of coming home, of people doing things because it’s life, not work. It’s a place to share memories and stories. Life is very different when everyone lives and works on site: our team is like a family, and guests become an extended family who comes to visit.

Here, you’re at home when you’re at work and at work when you’re home. The sense of connection is magnified – that’s what gives Kuda Huraa its soul.”

Connection underpins Didier’s leadership ethos – as does his passion for “giving back and giving opportunities.”

Having started in the industry as an apprentice himself, the Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Apprenticeship program is of particular interest to him, while his open-door policy further supports his desire to be seen as just one of the team. “We’re all born the same way and all have a job to do,” he concludes. “I am firm, fair, and flexible but most of all I strive to have fun. There’s no bigger motivator than a positive working environment.” www.tourismindiaonline.com

STB LAUNCHES #SINGAPOREIMAGINE MARKETING PROGRAMME TO SPUR INNOVATIVE DESTINATION MARKETING The S$8 million programme supports local businesses across tourism and lifestyle industries to promote Singapore and recapture international demand

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ocal businesses in the tourism and lifestyle sectors are set to get more marketing support with the launch of the SingapoReimagine Marketing Programme (SMP) by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) today, as part of efforts to support tourism and strengthen Singapore’s appeal as a choice destination for business and leisure.

Under the S$8 million programme, tourism and lifestyle businesses will receive 70 percent funding on their qualifying costs, capped at S$500,000.

To encourage cross-sector collaboration, a funding booster of an additional 10 percent, capped at S$50,000, will be awarded to applicants who partner with tourism stakeholders from different sectors.

Chang Chee Pey, Assistant Chief Executive of STB’s Marketing Group, said, “Through the SingapoReimagine Marketing Programme, we hope to rally the local industry to reimagine the way they promote Singapore, and work with like-minded partners to cut through the clutter as destinations compete for a slice of the travel pie. For our tourism sector to recover strongly, businesses must cement our position as a must-visit destination with diverse and appealing offerings. I look forward to seeing the innovative and bold marketing ideas that can help us achieve this.”

Proposals will be evaluated by a panel of marketing experts comprising STB and industry representatives, and assessed against three key criteria: Creativity and relevance of campaign idea, supported by the strong application of analytics and insights, Effectiveness of media mix, and innovative use of distribution channels to deliver campaign messaging www.tourismindia.org

and emotionally connect with target audiences, and Overall cohesiveness of campaign and its potential impact to promote Singapore and inspire leisure and/or business travel.

Applications from tourism industries such as attractions, hotels, and travel agents are welcome. Lifestyle industries such as retail, dining, and leisure events are also eligible to participate in the SingapoReimagine Marketing Programme. The inclusion of lifestyle businesses is to encourage interesting cross-sector collaborations that offer unique experiences to visitors.

Ernie Koh, President of, the Singapore Retailers Association said, “We are glad that STB continues to support tourism-related sectors that influence travel decisions. The recovery of our tourism industry requires 53 a joint effort by the public and private sectors, and our retailers are open to new collaborations with tourism stakeholders and industries to strengthen Singapore’s appeal as a business and shopping destination.

By encouraging innovative destination marketing, travellers will be enticed to reimagine Singapore for themselves, providing a much-needed boost for the retail sector”.

SMP aims to enhance the desirability of Singapore as part of SingapoReimagine, STB’s international recovery campaign that welcomes travellers to realise their passion for travel through fresh

and innovative experiences. Apart from marketing support, SMP will also offer masterclasses and webinars to build industry capabilities in marketing. These upskilling opportunities are available through STB’s Marketing College, which can provide inspiration and learnings for the industry as they work on their submissions.

Kwee Wei-Lin, President, Singapore Hotel Association said, “Hotels in Singapore were able to sustain their marketing efforts during the pandemic, both domestically and internationally, due to STB’s continued efforts to catalyse the industry. With the rapid recovery of tourism, our members have a strong competitive advantage in retaining top-of-mind recall, complemented by a healthy pipeline of tourist demand.

The new SingapoReimagine Marketing Programme will spur fresh ideas and further the hotels’ competency in capturing a greater market share of revenge travel”.

The SMP builds on the success of the Marketing Partnership Programme (MPP), which was launched in 2020 to help tourism businesses maintain their international and domestic presence during the pandemic. With travel picking up pace, MPP will conclude in December 2022, while the SMP will continue to provide marketing support for the industry till December 2023.

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PENANG CON.&EXH. BUREAU AIMS TO RECONNECT & REVIVE TOURISM The Preliminary Promotional Trip to India is essential for demonstrating market readiness in India.

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he Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) has embarked on a preliminary promotional trip to India with the aim to reconnect and revive the tourism and business events industry in Penang and India through press conferences and networking nights.

The Preliminary Promotional Trip to India is essential for demonstrating market readiness in India. Some of the Indian local airlines have expressed interest in expanding into Penang after attending PCEB’s annual roadshow last year. Following the interest, the PCEB team together with YB Yeoh Soon Hin, the State Executive Councillor for Tourism & Creative Economy had a meeting with a few airlines to discuss direct flight opportunities to Penang from key cities in India. It is essential to maintain marketing momentum in order to keep

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airlines enthusiastic about the PenangIndia link.

“The efforts to ensure tourism is sustainable were taken well into consideration by incorporating the idea of Responsible Tourism into the travel and tourism sector post-pandemic. Penang is the first state in Malaysia to launch a well-designed SOS safety APP, making Penang once again the trendsetter in Malaysia’s tourism environment. With your support, we can restore travellers’ confidence to visit Penang and ensure that it remains a top destination for people from all over the world”, said Yeoh Soon Hin, the State Executive Councillor for Tourism & Creative Economy “PCEB’s dedication has not wavered, and our team is dedicated to fostering mutually beneficial relationships and working closely with the Indian

community. The establishment of a direct flight between India and Penang is one of the primary topics of conversation at the moment. We are already in discussion with airlines both in India and in Malaysia about the possibility of establishing additional direct flight routes between Penang and key cities in India,” said Ashwin Gunasekaran, the Chief Executive Officer of Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau.

“Penang has historically seen a healthy inflow of travelers from India: for leisure and business travellers as well as corporate events. As Malaysia’s national airline, we are constantly working towards making Malaysia a preferred destination and are committed to helping enhance Malaysia’s market share in the MICE industry. With the collective goal to strengthen connections and reinvigorate the Penang economy, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB). We are confident that this alliance will prove to be positive for both PCEB and MAG in many ways. We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial business relationship with PCEB.” Amit Mehta Country Manager- South Asia, Malaysia Airlines.

India, the largest country in South Asia has been one of the top 5 visitors to Malaysia for a decade and shows no sign of hitting the brakes. India’s outbound tourism market is only second to China’s.

With the Indian market being a key focus area for PCEB, the bureau is gearing up for its annual roadshow to the country in the early months of 2023. www.tourismindiaonline.com

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GET READY TO WANDER IN LAKE TAHOE THIS SUMMER

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ake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada of the United States. Lying at 6,225 ft (1,897 m), it straddles the state line between California and Nevada, west of Carson City. Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America,[5] and at 122,160,280 acre⋅ft (150.7 km3) it trails only the five Great Lakes as the largest by volume in the United States. Its depth is 1,645 ft (501 m), making it the second deepest in the United States after Crater Lake in Oregon (1,949 ft or 594 m).[1] Lake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, straddling the border of California and Nevada. It’s known for its beaches and ski resorts. On the southwest shore, Emerald Bay State Park contains the 1929 Nordic-style mansion Vikingsholm. Along the lake’s northeast side, Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park includes Sand Harbor Beach and Spooner Lake, a gateway to the longdistance Tahoe Rim Trail.

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The lake was formed about two million years ago as part of the Lake Tahoe Basin, and its modern extent was shaped during the ice ages. It is known for the clarity of its water and the panorama of surrounding mountains on all sides.

[6] The area surrounding the lake is also referred to as Lake Tahoe, or simply Tahoe. More than 75% of the lake’s watershed is national forest land, being the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit of the United States Forest Service.

Lake Tahoe is a major tourist attraction in both Nevada and California.

It is home to winter sports, summer outdoor recreation, and scenery enjoyed throughout the year. Snow and ski resorts are a significant part of the area’s economy and reputation.[7][8] The Nevada side also offers several lakeside casino resorts, with highways providing year-round access to the entire area.

Lake Tahoe is a can’t-miss summer destination. Whether you’re in search

of a fun family vacation or an all-out mountain adventure, there are plenty of things to do in Lake Tahoe in summer.

From spectacular hiking and biking, to water sports and sunbathing, to simply soaking up the fresh mountain air, summer is the season to get outside in Lake Tahoe.

SUMMER SPORTS

Take a hike. Get out there! With www.tourismindiaonline.com

Lake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada of the United States

demons.

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stunning mountain vistas, meadows painted in wildflowers, and pristine alpine lakes, it’s no wonder that one of the most popular Lake Tahoe summer activities is hiking.

One of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe in summer is to explore from the water. Lake Tahoe has plenty of water sports for adventure seekers. This is a must-do Lake Tahoe summer activity!

You can rent a speedboat or Jet Ski www.tourismindia.org

and zip to Emerald Bay, soar over the lake on a parasailing adventure, kayak or paddleboard along the shoreline to hidden beaches, or get your thrill on when you try wake-surfing and wake-boarding.

Bikers get ready! The Lake Tahoe summer season is rife with biking opportunities. As a designated Bike Friendly Community, there are plenty of trails for everyone, from paved paths for social spins to single-track for downhill

Looking for relaxing activities during your Tahoe vacation? Lake Tahoe has got you covered. There are tons of Lake Tahoe summer activities to enjoy without having to wear a helmet.

Sip artisanal cocktails at a waterfront restaurant, shop till you drop at the Heavenly Village, and enjoy live music at South Lake Tahoe summer concerts.

Don’t miss seeing your favourite band play at the Harveys Summer Concert Series, which brings Grammy-winning musicians to the south shore, and check out the Live at Lakeview Summer Music Series for jamming tunes right on the beach.

Honestly, you just can’t beat a beach day in Lake Tahoe. The beaches are simply divine with fine-grain sand and the clearest water you’ve ever seen.

There are so many things to do during a Lake Tahoe summer, you will be hardpressed to accomplish it all!

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TOURISM MALAYSIA LEADS B2B SESSION AT TAFI CONVENTION 2022 The annual convention of the Travel Agents Federation of India succesfully concluded at Kuching from the Sep. 20-23, 2022 in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, Sarawak Tourism Board and Business Events Sarawak.

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he Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) Convention 2022 in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), and Business Events (BE) Sarawak is held in Kuching for the first time from the 20th to 23rd of September with an expected arrival of over 700 TAFI members from India. This marked the third time Malaysia has become the host country for TAFI Convention, the first in 1999 followed by the second time in 2007.

Tourism Malaysia conducted a Business to Business Session (B2B) between Indian buyers with Malaysian sellers.

108 sellers from all over Malaysia took part in wooing the potential new clientele

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among more than 450 buyers from India representing more than 240 companies.

The Malaysian sellers consist of 33 travel agents, 17 product owners, 37 hotels & resorts, 1 airline, 7 hospitality-related associations, 6 state representatives, and 7 others.

With the tagline “Build Back Better”, the convention discusses sustainability, advanced greening efforts, conservation, and responsible tourism during its sessions. Several specially flown speakers will be sharing insights and experiences with the participants in steering into the new world of postpandemic. Like the rest of the world, the Indian market is growing at a steady pace

and is consistently looking for newer destinations, products, and experiences.

“Malaysia has everything for everyone, be it an outdoor adventure, a luxurious retreat, or a shopping spree of our finest arts and crafts. We also share a lot of similarities with India in terms of culture, tradition, and cuisine, which is why Malaysia is among the favourite destinations for Indian tourists,” said Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia.

Bringing forth a series of Pre & Post Tour of Malaysia’s unique attractions, Dato’ Sri Nancy also expressed her appreciation to the participating tourism associations and products, namely

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the Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA), Batik Air, TTA Johor Tourism, Desaru Coast, Desaru Fruit Farm, Holiday Inn Johor Bharu City Center, Trinidad Suite Puteri Harbour, Ibis Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Resort World Genting, Tourism Selangor, Sunway Lagoon, Sunway Resort Kuala Lumpur,

Penang Global Tourism (PGT), Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), Tropical Charters Langkawi, Lexis Hibiscus, Sabah Tourism Board, and WebBeds.

In 2019, the Indian market contributed 735,309 arrivals (22%) to the country.

Sarawak has all the pieces of a puzzle to become a much sought-after destination

in the Indian market following the latest travel trend seeking ecotourism, conservation, and sustainability.

The Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) with a membership of more than 1400 tour operators and travel agents accounts for approximately 70% of all outbound travel from India.

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INDONESIA HOST ROADSHOWS TO WOO INDIAN TOURISTS Indonesia Tourism authority held road shows in Mumbai, Chennai and Bengluru in September to attract more travellers from the West and South India region.

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he Ministry of Tourism, Government of Indonesia has organised Indonesia Sales Mission and Media Meet in Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru in September to attract more travellers from the South India region. India has currently adorned the 4th rank after Australia, Singapore, and Malaysia as a major source market for Indonesian

inbound visitors. Around 80,000 tourists from India visited the country from January to July this year. The three-city roadshow comprised 11 travel agents, 12 representatives of hotels, and two airline companies.

Indian tourists are dominating Indonesia’s South Asia market demand as per the first half of 2022. With the

ease of international arrival regulations and Visa on Arrival (VoA), travelers from India can now safely enjoy their vacation to the fullest in Indonesia. Apart from its magnificent culture, tourists can also enjoy the variety of natural beauty, adventure, and wildlife of Indonesia.

Currently, Bali is the favourite destination for Indian travellers to Indonesia and now Wonderful Indonesia is marketing five more new priority destinations which are too beautiful to be missed by any visitors. They are Borobudur, Lake Toba, Mandalika, Labuan Bajo, and Likupang.

Ms. Indri Wahyu Susanti, Coordinator of Tourism Marketing for South and Central Asia in the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy Indonesia, said, “India is one of our prime source markets and Tour operators have been asking for destinations other than Bali.

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NEWS / OUTBOUND We are developing new destinations including Mandalika, which is going to have MotoGP; Labuan Bajo, known for Komodo dragons; and Borobudur, which has the biggest Hindu temple.”

Indian tourists have started travelling to Indonesia as international arrival regulations have been relaxed and visa on arrival has been reintroduced. We came here with the spirit to boost international tourists’ visits, Wonderful Indonesia proudly presented the most highlighted destinations and new experiences at the Indonesia Sales Mission added Ms. Susanti.

Ms. Susanti also said, “The ministry is pushing for direct flights. We are getting a lot of tourists though there are no direct flights.” People travel via Singapore and Malaysia. Now Viejet is also offering daily connectivity via Hanoei and Hochimin City in Vietnam. The multi-city road shows in Chennai and Bengaluru brought together Indonesian sellers including major Hoteliers, Restaurateurs, Tour Operators, and Airline companies.

And Indian buyers consist of major tour operators, MICE agents, Wedding planners from the metro cities under one roof. The multi-city road shows were held to further strengthen the ties with the Indian travel-trade fraternity and to introduce some of the hidden gems of

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Indonesia to the ever-growing Indian outbound market. The roadshow offered a platform for Indonesian stakeholders to establish direct contact with the Indian travel trade. It is also an opportunity for the Indian travel trade to receive the latest updates on Indonesia as well as directly meet the representatives from some of the archipelago’s most popular hotels and resorts and travel agents who are participating in the Roadshow.

An overwhelming response was received from the Indian travel trade for the roadshow, indicating their level of interest in the destination. The attendees in each city included tour wholesalers, travel agents, and media.

Raffle draws were held in each city with to and fro flight tickets, hotel stay vouchers, and many other goodies being won by the attendees. Indonesia highlights its international presence this year by holding the G20 Presidency.

Adopting the theme ‘Recover Together, Recover Stronger’, the multilateral event started in December 2021 in various cities, with the event summit held in November 2022. Apart from welcoming international government boards and organizations to G20, Indonesia also successfully held global sports events this year, respectively MotoGP in March and Formula E in June. The international

exposure gained is expected to mark the economic revival of the country, as well as open up job opportunities to the affected community after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Recently, Indonesia has been ranked first among the most beautiful countries in the world, according to the Natural Beauty Report from sources.

Indonesia’s natural beauty gained 7.77 out of 10. Indian tourists are dominating Indonesia’s South Asia market demand as per the first half of 2022. With the ease of international arrival regulations and Visa on Arrival (VoA), travelers from India can now safely enjoy their vacation to the fullest in Indonesia. Apart from its magnificent culture, tourists can also enjoy the variety of natural beauty, adventure, and wildlife of Indonesia.

In addition to Bali, which is one of the most preferred islands, we have 5 Super Priority Destinations (Lake Toba, Borobudur, Mandalika, Labuan Bajo, and Likupang).

Lake Toba is a world-class geoparkbased tourism destination located on the island of Sumatra. This natural wonder is a magnificent caldera formed from a mega volcano eruption some 74,000 years ago. It is the second-largest lake in the world that offers the charm of green mountains that pamper the eyes,

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shooting fresh, clean air, and a vast expanse of lake water which can be seen from the accommodation in the vicinity.

The magnificent Borobudur is the world’s biggest Buddhist temple located

on the island of Java. The monument sits majestically on a hilltop surrounded by the beautiful scenery of lush green fields and distant hills. Built between AD 780 and 840 during the reign of the Syailendra

dynasty, the temple’s design in Gupta architecture reflects India’s influence on the region. However, enough indigenous scenes and elements are incorporated to make Borobudur uniquely Indonesian.

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Gateway Malabar Holidays (P) Ltd. is an established Destination Management Company with multi operational offices in India. We set fresh trends and establish new standards for best practices in the tourism industry enriching customer satisfaction offering sober clean packages, with professional guidance made available at every lap of your journey.

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Gateway Malabar Holidays (P) Ltd. IInd floor, Thirunilath Buildings, Geethanjali Junction, NH 47 Bypass, Vytilla OCTOBER TOURISM Branches : Cochin2022 | Calicut | BangaloreINDIA | Sri Lanka | Dubai

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