Free Copy For Visa Applicants. Not For Sale.
Volume 2 | Issue 1 | February-March 2019 TM
Unique Attractions to Experience in Latvia Handy Pullout of Sports Calendar 2019 Be ‘Visa-Ready’ With Key Services from VFS Global
Explore Switzerland
Ranveer with
CEO MESSAGE
ENHANCE YOUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCE Dear customer, Welcome to the latest edition of VFS Global COMPASSTM, a complimentary magazine exclusively for VFS Global’s visa application centre customers. COMPASSTM shares with you useful information about visa application services, as well as other interesting news on travel and destinations around the world. Travellers are already gearing up for the upcoming peak travel season, researching new destinations, applying for visas, booking hotels and flights. Needless to say, early birds will surely get the worm! It is advisable to plan your travel in advance to avoid the rush – with record high levels in travel recorded recently, we expect the trend to continue.
Zubin Karkaria CEO, VFS Global Group
Our cover story features the incredibly popular Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh talking about his Switzerland experience and sharing recommendations for what travellers can look forward to at this ever-popular destination. Explore new holiday locales, such as Kangaroo Island in Australia and scenic Ireland, that are featured in the inside pages. This issue also brings you an exclusive interview with the Ambassador of Latvia to India His Excellency Mr. Artis Bertulis on why Latvia is emerging as a popular destination for travellers looking for new experiences. At VFS Global, we are committed to enhance your visa application experience – featured here are some personalised services you can avail of, such as ‘doorstep’ visa services and the Premium Lounge service, designed to transform your visa application experience. Frequent visa applicants will also find VFS Global’s Privilege Program useful for their travels, due to the variety of services they can access anytime, anywhere. Do feel free to take this issue home for a longer read or share it with your family and friends. Bon voyage!
Lavaux vineyards in Switzerland Feb-Mar 2019 / 1
Volume 2 | Issue 1 | February-March 2019
CONTENTS Pg 14 Pg 34
Pg 16
Guide to Visa Application 06 G et your visa hassle-free with VFS Global’s value added services 12 Get your visa-related questions answered by VFS Global
People & Places
Adventure
14 Ranveer Singh talks about his Swiss adventures
40 Happy Holidays! Head to Kangaroo Island for a unique experience
20 Abdulla bin Sulayem, CEO of Seven Tides, talks about Dubai’s hospitality industry 34 Artis Bertulis, Ambassador of Latvia to India, talks about Latvia emerging as a popular tourism destination
Spotlight 16 Ranveer Recommends Ranveer’s recommendations for a Swiss experience
Cityscape 36 72 Hours in Cape Town Soak in the numerous sights of this gorgeous land
Pg 36
Pg 32 Pg 06 Pg 24
Free Copy For Visa Applicants. Not For Sale.
Volume 2 | Issue 1 | February-March 2019 TM
Unique Attractions to Experience in Latvia Handy Pullout of Sports Calendar 2019 Be ‘Visa-Ready’ With Key Services from VFS Global
Explore Switzerland
Ranveer with
Outdoor
Globetrotter
About VFS Global
44 Magic of Japan’s Sakura Head Japan during the Cherry Blossom blooming season
28 S ports Calendar A handy pullout of the best sporting events across the world. Take it home with you!
46 Residents in UAE & India benefit with VFS Global’s tech services
Leisure 26 TV Shows to Binge Watch Binge-watch these TV series during long flights
Hotspot 24 S tarry Holidays Check out where Bollywood stars rang in the New Year
Indulge 32
Baltic Wonderland Full of forests, castles and cobbled lanes, Latvia is the ultimate holiday destination
50 A host of privileges await you at VFS Global 52 VFS Global is committed to upholding human rights and ethical practices 54 VFS Global Network
Feb-Mar 2019 / 3
Volume 2 | Issue 1 | February-March 2019 TM
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TM
GUIDE TO VISA APPLICATION
Beat
APPLY IN ADVANCE TO
THE RUSH!
Apply early or opt for VFS Global’s hassle-free and convenient services to get your visa processed on time
F
or any modern-day traveller, be it for business, leisure, education or any other objective, the need to get the visa processed on time has always been of paramount importance. In view of the onset of the peak travel season just around the corner, travellers are advised to apply for visas well in advance, just like their flight and hotel bookings, rather
Interestingly, visa applications to most countries can be submitted up to 90 days before scheduled date of travel. Though most of the countries mandate an appointment system, where applicants can visit during a specific pre-decided time slot to submit their details, sometime there are instances of elaborate queuing encountered around the peak season.
than waiting till it is too close to their travel dates.
At this time, VFS Global offers additional
measures at the Visa Application Centres like setting up more submission counters or extending operational hours, etc. so that as more applications can be accepted per day, than during the non-peak months. Alongwith these measures, to meet the growing numbers of visa applications submitted, VFS Global has conceptualised and implemented a host of services that are not only tailor-made to suit the changing requirements of applicants, but also simplify the visa application process to make it more hassle-free. These services have transformed the overall application submission experience, and are especially useful during peak periods by offering convenience, exclusivity and personalisation.
Priority Services “An urgent trip to the United Kingdom has come up. Is it even possible to get a visa at such short notice?”
DISCLAIMER *Some of the above mentioned services may not be offered in some countries, or for specific missions/embassies/consulates. To check if any of the above services are available in your country, or if they are offered for a specific embassy/consulate, or to book any of the above value-added services, visit the country-specific website via www.vfsglobal.com. *Availing any of the above mentioned value-added services does not affect the processing time or decision of your visa. These remain the sole prerogative of the Embassy/Mission/Consulate. The services are charged in addition to the visa application fee.
Fret not. The Priority Visa service gives you the chance to push your application right to the front of the queue if you plan to visit, work or study application to UK. Priority Visa services offer a UK visa application to be processed within 3-5 working days while the Super Priority service ensures it is completed within 24 hours, which applicants can opt for at an additional cost to the existing fee.
Visa at Your Doorstep “My schedule is too hectic. Could I submit my visa application without leaving my home or office?” This is a popular premium service that offers the ultimate in convenience. ‘Doorstep’ visa services meet the needs of select segments like busy corporates, film production crews, travel delegations, MICE groups, HNIs (High Networth Individuals), or even large groups of families or friends who plan to travel overseas together. With flexible pricing, depending on the group size, this service can in fact be more
ATTENTION UAE NATIONALS: INFORMATION ON THE VISA WAIVER SERVICE UAE nationals wishing to go to the UK, for short trips, of up to six months at a time, can take advantage of the UK’s electronic visa waiver service, which offers visa-free travel provided travellers register online at least 48 hours before departure. Applicants can call the dedicated Electronic Visa Waiver Helpline at +971 600 565 574 for detailed information and visit the UK Visa Application Centres either in Dubai or Abu Dhabi to avail the service. This service can be applied for only by passport holders of Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates visiting the UK for tourism. Those wishing to stay in the UK for longer periods may need to apply for a visa.
economical, especially for large groups of travellers across the country who prefer not to travel to Visa Application Centres to apply.
The Premium Lounge “I’d like to sit back and relax and have an expert guide me through my visa requirements.” The exclusive Premium Lounges at select locations offer the comforts of a modern-day lounge, that efficiently caters to travel volumes during the peak season. Dedicated and trained staff equipped with local language skills can answer queries and help with quicker completion of the visa application submission process. For residents in Dubai, the exclusive Platinum Lounge facility available at WAFI Mall offers uncompromised service quality and top-notch customer support within a secure and private environment to visa applicants travelling to the UK or Australia, all within the lap of luxury.
*Locations where the Visa At Your Doorstep service is offered vary, depending on city or country where the service is offered. Please check with the VFS Global representative in your city or country for details.
Feb-Mar 2019 / 7
GUIDE TO VISA APPLICATION
Prime Time Services “Work is keeping me too busy. I wish I could submit my application outside of the normal working hours!” You can! Prime Time Services allow applicants to lodge their applications beyond the normal processing hours and help you to beat the queues and process your visa application with ease and speed. For the convenience of applicants, prime time slots are often opened outside of the usual working hours or even working days (like Saturday) at select locations, to efficiently cater to rising demand during peak season. Applicants can check for more details about this on the VFS Global website or by visiting the nearest centre.
Temporary Enrolment Centres “The nearest centre is too far away.” In some locations, Temporary Enrolment Locations allow visa application submission at regular intervals. For example, applicants travelling to UK from Thiruvananthapuram can avail the convenience of the Temporary Enrolment
ATTENTION GERMANY VISA APPLICANTS IN INDIA, BHUTAN AND SRI LANKA You can now purchase a host of convenient visa services online, including Premium Lounge, Prime Time, Courier or Photobooth services, by clicking on the ‘Buy Our Services’ option! To register and buy these services, please visit: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/login Germany visa applicants in India & Bhutan can purchase the following services online: n Courier Service n Photobooth & Photocopy Services n Premium Lounge in India n Prime Time Service n SMS services Germany visa applicants in Sri Lanka can purchase the following services online: n Courier Service n Premium Lounge n SMS services n Application Form Filling
Location which is hosted once a month on a Saturday. Plans also include setting up seasonal Visa Application Centres for select embassies that are likely to be operational through the peak season period. Watch this space for more!
Walk-in Services “Can I walk-in without an appointment?” Yes. Walk-in services allow applicants travelling to UK to submit their applications on any working day without a prior appointment. This is particularly useful for those travelling in a group such as incentive tours, business summits, destination weddings etc.
Other Services Apart from the services listed above, there are a whole host of other options that applicants can avail, which are tailored to fit their unique preferences such as Form-Filling assistance, Premium Courier Service, and Privilege cards, among others, designed to offer an applicant a seamless experience even during peak season.
HOTSPOT Lake outside Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, Beijing
China
EXPERIENCE
I
IN TRUE LUXURY
f you seek a holiday in China that surpasses your wildest imagination, then ‘China in Luxury’ will open the doors to this magnificent country like you had never
and celebrities, to unique and once-in-alifetime tours and experiences, China in Luxury offers all-inclusive ultra-luxury travel arrangements for the elite traveller.
dreamt possible.
Operated by the Diplomatic Protocol Service Center (DPSC), a specialised tourism arm of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, ‘China in Luxury’ makes visiting this country an extraordinary experience. From living in the lap of luxury at locations normally reserved only for royalty, diplomatic leaders
China in Luxury services are most popular among: Premium business and leisure travellers Destination wedding parties High-end meetings and conferences
‘China in Luxury’ is an exclusive high-end tourism initiative that offers travellers private and ultra-luxurious travel experiences in China Live in the lap of luxury DPSC has exclusive access to a range of hand-picked properties across China, where numerous Heads of State, dignitaries, Prime Ministers and even Presidents have stayed at during their visits to China. The one-of-its-kind Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, which bears the legacy of receiving over 1,330 foreign Heads of States and the ultraluxurious Four Seasons Presidential Villa in Hangzhou are amongst the illustrious list of options. Depending on your vision and stay requirements, just the right fit awaits you.
Breathtaking experiences Since every elite traveller sees the world differently, China in Luxury experts use their experience and unrivalled knowledge to design the ‘ultimate experiences’, made to measure for you in China. Taking in a sunset from the Great Wall of China would be an awe-inspiring experience in itself, but imagine delighting in a mesmerising sunset while savouring delectable cuisines atop the Great Wall! China in Luxury offers its clientele a oneof-a-kind private dining experience on the Great Wall, an evening one will be sure to cherish for a lifetime. For those looking for a more enthralling experience, the opportunity to see China from the skies awaits you! A helicopter ride with aerial views of spell-binding landscape can be arranged to capture the ethereal beauty of China for you. Additionally, VIP tours of all the worldfamous sites and must-sees in China can be intuitively included throughout one’s visit, alongside numerous sought after cultural excursions and activities to ensure you soak-in the true essence of China.
VIP services and absolute privacy To ensure absolute privacy and unmatched comfort, while you travel your arrival
Helicopter rides are also available on demand
How to make a China in Luxury booking China in Luxury service outlets are operational at China Visa Application Centres operated by VFS Global in select cities across India and at the centre in Dubai. For more details on China in Luxury services or to make a booking, please visit www.chinainluxury.com. For details, write in to info@chinainluxury.com or call +91 75066 24668 (India) or +971 50 459 3338 (UAE).
and departure can be made seamless with exclusive VIP services. Subject to a customer’s status and preferences, services such as tarmac drop-off and pick-up, fasttracked immigration and customs checks, VIP Lounge services, luggage transfers directly to VIP Lounges and private butler services. At China in Luxury, every facet of your journey is looked after with close attention to detail. Whether you are looking to travel solo or as a family, you can experience the ultimate in luxury through a world of unbridled exclusivity and breath-taking adventure. The custom-created experiences offered by China in Luxury will energise every fibre of your being, while immersing you into the magic of Chinese culture.
The Great Wall of China Butler service
GUIDE TO VISA APPLICATION
Answered YOUR TOP VISA QUERIES
HERE
Travelling abroad for the first time and don’t understand the visa process? Have a burning question that needs to be answered pronto? Here are a few answers to some questions most frequently asked on visa processing on VFS Global’s social media platforms! What is a Visa Application Centre (VAC)? VACs have been established to provide administrative support to the Embassy/Consulate for the successful submission of applications for all temporary resident categories (visitor visas, study and work permits).
What type of visa do I require? The type of visa you require depends on the purpose of your trip. To get accurate information on visa categories, please visit the visa services website of the country you wish to travel to, that you can access via vfsglobal.com.
When should I apply for the visa? Applicants should apply as early as possible keeping in mind the average processing times and their intended date of travel. Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days before your date of travel.
Can I reschedule my appointment? Of course, you can reschedule your appointment for a future date (up to a maximum of two times). If you are late or have missed your appointment on the scheduled day, you will be required to book a new appointment after 24 hours.
What will happen after I submit my application? Once you submit your application at the Visa Application Centre, the staff will perform a completeness check based on the concerned embassy’s requirements, before submitting your application on the same or the following business day. Once the Visa Office has assessed your application, they will make a decision to grant or reject a visa, and securely return your passport to the VFS Global Visa Application Centre. You will be informed of the returned passport via your preferred method of communication, and an update will be provided on the Online Application Tracking System when your passport is ready to be collected from the VAC or dispatched to you if you have opted for courier return of passport. You may then come to the VAC to retrieve your passport or await delivery of passport at your preferred address.
How can I track the status of my application? Once your application is submitted, you can track its progress through VFS Global’s online tracking service. The status will be updated as and when your passport is ready for collection/delivery. Please be advised that VFS Global cannot track your application while it is being assessed within an embassy or consulate.
PEOPLE & PLACES
d n a l r e z t i w S SHOULD BE ON
EVERY TRAVELLER’S
BUCKET LIST Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh gives us the inside scoop on exploring the treasures of Switzerland
R
anveer Singh is riding high. His charisma, good humour, and media allure, apart from ample acting talent, are driving box office success, in India and abroad. Always on the move, and full of energy, his work is taking him places, literally. While this flamboyant actor can make any location look good by the sheer force of his personality, as
Among his favourite moments on his Switzerland journey was spending time in the French-speaking part of Switzerland – the Lake Geneva Region, which is a seamless melting pot of rich history, culture, cuisine, wine and music. Here’s Ranveer’s take on the sightseeing treasures he uncovered at this unexplored gem.
a poster-boy for old-world romance, he has a strong connect with Switzerland,
Never too far from the movies
immortalised as the most romantic
A special moment for Ranveer was visiting Chaplin’s world in Vevey, in the
destination for millions of Indians.
Swiss wines are the world’s best kept secret... The trails gave me an in-depth feel of local life as I rode my bike through the narrow alleys, visited wine cellars, mountain homes and quaint villages
View of the Lavaux vineyards
Lake Geneva region. Opened in 2016, this engaging museum celebrates the life and work of the iconic comic-star, Charlie Chaplin. Exhibits at the museum include excerpts from Chaplin’s films, recreations of his film sets, family photos, and other evocative memorabilia at the Manoir de Ban mansion where Chaplin spent 25 years, such as his trademark hat and cane. Paying tribute to his favourite comic-star, Ranveer said, “Being an avid fan of the legend that is Charlie Chaplin, I was eagerly looking forward to visiting Chaplin’s World. This one-of-a-kind interactive museum, once home to the comic genius, is dedicated to his life and contribution to cinema. What caught my attention instantly was his quote on a wall that read – ‘A day without laughter is a day wasted’. It is a philosophy that I try to follow in my life as well. For me, he has always been the greatest cinematic auteur and I couldn’t be more honoured to pay tribute to one of the most multi-faceted and gifted creators who wrote, starred, directed, edited and produced and composed for a majority of his films, making him the most original creators in the movies.”
Montreux: The crown jewel of the Swiss Riviera Speaking of this beautiful resort town, Ranveer says, “Montreux, also called the Pearl of the Swiss Riviera, took me by surprise. Known for its famous jazz festival, this city on the shores of the Lake Geneva, has been the inspiration for many famous musicians, including our very own Parsi boy, Freddie Mercury. His statue overlooking the azure lake looks like he is still seeking
inspiration. The city is an ode to music, food and the good life. To just sit in one of its lake-facing cafes, and watch the world go by, is an ideal way to slow down and enjoy life.”
Chi Lakeside, Ouchy and Flon, reflect the city’s hip, urban culture. I loved the city’s upbeat vibe, its delectable aromas, hectares of gardens, unbelievable views and a fantastic waterfront.”
Compact, diverse and full of surprises
A taste of Swiss food and wine
Ranveer says he was particularly mesmerised by the charm of Lausanne, home to the Olympic Museum, the cornerstone of Olympism – sport, art and education come together through its ultramodern, interactive facilities. Lausanne is also one of the leading gastronomic cities with traditional as well as avant-garde new-age restaurants. Said Ranveer, “I explored the city by taking a long relaxing walk. Lausanne is a city of contrasts that just beckons you. Compact, diverse, and full of surprises, it is a beautiful blend of the old and the new. On the one hand, there is the city’s Gothic Old Town with its majestic Lausanne Cathedral, which takes you back to an era gone by; on the other, the neighbourhoods of the Chi
According to Ranveer, you can’t really experience a country in the true sense “until you have had a go at the local food.” A memorable Swiss gastronomic experience was at the Lavaux vineyards, Switzerland’s largest wine-growing region, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Said Ranveer, “Swiss wines are the world’s best kept secret. I experienced these beautiful sun-kissed terraces spread across 800 hectares of land. The dynamic uphill and downhill trails gave me an in-depth feel of local life as I rode my bike through the narrow alleys, visited wine cellars, mountain homes and quaint villages and restaurants. After all that cycling and working up a sweat, I gorged on local delicacies, paired with a spectacular glass of wine from the region, and what a wonderful end that was to our Lavaux trip!” Feb-Mar 2019 / 15
SPOTLIGHT
s d n e m m r eco
RANVEER
Here are a few of Ranveer Singh’s highly recommended Swiss experiences
Glacier 3000 in Switzerland
The one day ski experience Engelberg-Titlis Anyone who wants to try skiing once in a lifetime, is just right at “TITLIS Ski Experience”. Located half way up on Mt. Titlis, you get the full snow experience, easily accessible and perfect to combine with other attractions. On the spot you get the basic ski equipment and you’ll be able to immediately do your first steps with skis. A guide supervises you and will assist you with a few elemental instructions. The basic package includes one hour access to the snow experience park, but you can expand the experience with additional offers such as a ski instructor on demand, riding a snowmobile, snowtubing in our snow toys park or an excursion to the summit of Mt. Titlis.
Bobsleigh rides at top speeds St. Moritz-Celerina The Olympic Bob Run St. Moritz-Celerina is the world’s only natural ice bob run and also the oldest bob run still in operation. Bobsleigh taxi rides are offered on the only natural ice bob-sleigh track in the world. The 1,722-metre-long track only takes around 75 seconds to complete. At ‘horseshoe’ corner, you’ll experience a g-force of up to 4.5G and before the Martineau corner, you’ll reach top speeds as high as 135 km/h.
Badrutt’s Palace: for lovers of luxe St. Moritz The Badrutt’s Palace Hotel is a real vintage classic with a history that draws guests in again and again into its enchantment. Opened in 1896 by the Badrutt family and still owned by them, this hotel has a legendary reputation. It has more than
“I would like everyone to experience this country the way I have so I have done a recap of my favourite moments in Switzerland. So, pack your bags and get ready to takeoff.” 157 rooms, including 37 suites with a view of the Alps. With its discreet service, traditional elegance and a pleasant atmosphere of exquisite luxury, Badrutt’s Palace has been welcoming exciting guests from the worlds of politics, culture and showbusiness from its inception. The St. Moritz local hotspot is the hotel’s King Club with its trendy DJs plus seating for over 200.
An alpine excursion on top of the world Glacier 3000 Any holiday to Switzerland is incomplete without a snow experience. Home to the Peak Walk – the world’s only suspension bridge that connects two mountain peaks – Glacier 3000 is a must-do excursion in this region. It also has the highest situated alpine coaster in the world – take a cable car up to the top to reach the glacier that has snow throughout the year. Or try the snowbus that takes you across the glacier, or enjoy a ride on a husky-pulled sledge. The snow, the blue skies, and the huskies can make for a wonderful experience. Feb-Mar 2019 / 17
LEISURE
Anantara THE PALM DUBAI RESORT
E
xploring a city like Dubai is an exhaustive experience. Traipsing through the lanes, drinking in the sights and sinking your teeth into delicious food, indulging the shopaholic in you, requires a lot of energy and buzz. At the end of your day full of exploration, you would want to come back to a hotel that is comfortable and feels like home.
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, located on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah, is surrounded by lush green gardens, overlooking tranquil lagoons and the beach. This paradise of a vacation stay has been designed with an Asian flair where Thaiinspired decor has been infused with the spirit of Arabian hospitality. The resort is located on the East Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, connected to the Palm by a subsea tunnel, making it extremely
Anantara Exterior
Full of warmth and courtesy, the Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas are the perfect partner for you to find your adventure and savour the precious moments
nearby to the Dubai International Airport. A limousine from the hotel will escort you from here. Begin your adventure by going for a dip or simply lounging at the poolside, or make use of the brilliant gym facilities available and gear-up for your day ahead. While you’re staying at the UAE’s only Maldivian-style Over Water Villas, take your pick from the 293 elegant rooms and villas to soak in the charm. Head to the spa for some self-pampering. The resort’s highly-trained and experienced staff will introduce you to the traditional Turkish hammam in a plush setting. After a few hours when you emerge from there refreshed and energised, make your way to the Dubai Marina District nearby. It has got plenty of shopping spaces and a plethora of restaurants and cafes for you to have a fun-filled evening. You can also head to the Wild Wadi Waterpark nearby. When you
HIGHLIGHTS 260 Lagoon View and Access Rooms 12 Beach Pool Villas 18 Over Water Villas Five restaurants and bars Three lagoons Large swimming pool Signature Anantara Spa
come back, savour private moments by the lagoons accessible from your room while the kitchens prepare the best of international flavours for you to sample and indulge yourself. End your day with a drink brewed by professional mixers at one of the resort’s five bars. You can also book a table at the award-winning Mekong, a vibrant Asian restaurant with a menu of Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese dishes.
BRITISH
DUKES Dubai lobby
Hospitality AT ITS BEST
Head over to the DUKES Dubai Hotel to experience British hospitality in all its glory
D
UKES London, which has offered premium hospitality for over a century now, has found its way to Dubai. Head to this resort to experience British hospitality in all
attention to detail, whether you’re staying for business or pleasure, DUKES will make sure you have access to the best in terms of quality and comfort.
its glory. Located on the trunk of Palm Jumeirah, DUKES holds all the warmth, comfort and luxury you would want in your ultimate holiday stay. The ideal location makes this hotel even more worth it. It is just 45 minutes away from the Dubai International Airport and 30 minutes from the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.
The hotel’s 566 luxury rooms give you a choice between views of the Arabian Gulf, Palm Jumeirah or the breathtaking Dubai Marina Skyline. Let the staff and management offer you the best of quintessential British charm mixed with cosmopolitan luxury to give you the perfect vacation stay. Apart from their gorgeous infinity pool and lazy river as well as their spa facilities, you also have access to DUKES’ private beach, salon and health club while the kiddies can have fun at the DUKESY Kids Club with their favourite characters and toys. Thanks to their flair for understated sophistication and unrivalled
They have numerous options so that your meal isn’t just a simple eating exercise but a pleasurable delight. Within the property, you can choose from GBR (Great British Restaurant), DUKES Bar, The Champagne & Tea Lounge, Cigar & Whisky Lounge, West 14th and Khyber for your meals and social engagements.
HIGHLIGHTS 279 guest rooms including 64 stylish suites 215 studios and 72 one-bedroom apartments 6 eateries Private Beach, swimming pools and lazy river DUKESY Kids Club
Renowned for its indoor ski resort, the Mall of the Emirates is a 10-minute drive away, as is the Dubai Marina - a hive of activity with cafés, boutique stores and trendy nightspots. You will also be able to easily access neighbouring hubs such as Media and Internet City. What sets DUKES apart from the rest though, is their Duchess Floor, keeping in spirit with the new-age traveller. The Duchess Floor is tailored solely to cater to female travellers. The rooms are furnished with stunning Liberty London fabrics and offer dedicated amenities for women. The state-of-the-art decor and interiors here will make any female solo traveller fall in love with the hotel. DUKES Dubai Beach and Pool
Feb-Mar 2019 / 19
PEOPLE & PLACES
Buzzwords TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION:
FOR DUBAI’S HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY In an exclusive interview, Mr. Abdulla bin Sulayem, the CEO of Seven Tides, talks about the growing hospitality industry of the UAE and development of tourism in Dubai
Dubai is well known for its luxury hotels – it has over a 100 luxury hotels by some estimates. As travel to the UAE grows, what are some of the latest growth trends in the hotel industry? As travel to the UAE continues to grow, hotel operators are increasingly adopting cutting-edge technology and innovations as well as a wide range of sustainable initiatives. The hospitality industry is actively listening to consumers and using data to give an insight into trends, characteristics and spending habits. Much of the innovation we have seen across the industry is focused on easing the passenger journey, with flexibility,
personalisation and authenticity all key to enhancing a guest’s overall trip. Sustainability is another growing trend, with the industry recognising that today’s travellers, particularly those from Generation Y, are more environmentally focused and conscious of the carbon footprint they are leaving behind. And it’s not just saving energy, hotels are readily applying a reduce, reuse and recycle principle to many aspects of their operation – food waste, grey water and so on. Hydroponic planting is a huge focus for us. At present we have three hotels in Dubai, all of which consume a large amount of fruit and vegetables on a daily basis. Hydroponics is a subset of hydroculture, the method of growing plants without soil, using mineral solutions in a water solvent. This process allows you to grow almost any plant at virtually any time of the year, meaning climate and season no longer present any limitations.
We already have a large greenhouse located on the World Islands – but we are currently working to upgrade the facility, with the intention of supplying all of our hotels with the majority of the fruit and vegetables they require within the next few months. Not only is hydroponics cleaner and more efficient, it also produces better tasting produce with more nutritional value and can reduce water consumption by up to 90%. Is there a change in customer expectations from the hospitality sector today, rather than say, a decade ago? The hospitality industry, while innovative in many ways, is a service provider meeting the demands of travellers across the world. Travellers are increasingly looking beyond conventional leisure programmes and itineraries to actively seek out atypical experiences that deliver a true taste of local culture. Experiential travel encompasses the adventure, culture, heritage, wellness & spa, and cruise tourism segments, which are currently trending globally. Today more than ever before, we are seeing the hospitality industry offering their guests intangible and emotional experiences, immersing them in local culture, tradition and ways of life. It’s an appeal that can be successfully transferred to backpackers and billionaires alike. What would you say are the USPs of the Seven Tides properties? Every time we build a new hospitality property, we look for a unique feature that will make the hotel or resort stand out in what is a highly competitive market.
Travellers today are increasingly looking beyond conventional leisure programmes and itineraries to actively seek out atypical experiences
Today more than ever before, we are seeing the hospitality industry offering their guests intangible and emotional experiences, immersing them in local culture, tradition and ways of life
With Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, guests have direct access from their rooms to the resort’s lagoons and private over water villas; Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel features a magnificent grand hall with 88 giant lanterns, not forgetting the stunning gateway arch, which is larger than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris; while DUKES Dubai offers a classic British hospitality experience, with the theme being carried through from the décor and design to dining concepts and that all-important British service delivery.
Our focus will be on Palm Jumeriah and World Island resorts that offer something different to the market We launched SE7EN Residences The Palm and SE7EN CITY JLT, our first mixeduse development, earlier this year. The SE7EN brand marks a new direction for the extended space. With an emphasis on lifestyle and experience, it is positioned to appeal to young executives. The digital space – mobile apps and online booking aggregators in particular – have revolutionised the way people do their bookings. As a hotel chain, how have you adapted to these changes? With around 80% of holiday bookings made via mobile booking apps or online, there’s a magnitude of opportunities to be gained by hoteliers from embracing these technologies. The UAE is one of the fastest growing regional hospitality markets on a global scale and an innovative technologyreliant industry. Its impact on hotels and
travel and tourism is multi-dimensional, ranging from mobile apps, online booking aggregators, voice and facial recognition and chatbots to beacon technology, virtual reality, blockchain and robot concierge. Expo 2020 in Dubai is expected to be a prime growth driver for the economy. What is your view on how this will impact tourism to the UAE? The hospitality industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the UAE. Dubai Tourism figures released earlier this year revealed that the number of hotel rooms in the emirate stood at 112,381, spread across 706 establishments in September 2018, an aggregated 6 per cent increase as compared to September-end 2017. Dubai has the capacity to support many more hotels - with 160,000 hotel rooms expected in the emirate by 2020 and 25 million visitors expected annually by 2025. Our ambition for the future is to increase the number of iconic and unique hospitality properties in our portfolio to further drive the continued evolution of luxury hospitality. We will continue to be very selective about where we invest. City hotels are not something we will be looking at in the short term. Instead our focus will be on Palm Jumeriah and World Island resorts that offer something different to the market. With competition the biggest challenge facing the industry today, it is absolutely vital that we stand out from our competitors and this is our strategic focus. We do this by fundamentally offering a great product, great service and great value. Whether this is through our highly skilled and trained staff, our F&B offerings or the unique ambiance at each hotel, ensuring our guests have a memorable stay with us is of paramount importance. Feb-Mar 2019 / 21
LEISURE
THE EVER-ENTICING
Ireland
With its multifaceted draw, it is no wonder that Ireland’s many counties enchant visitors from across the globe
I
reland holds within its reaches a rich history, vibrant culture, welcoming people and a plethora of sweeping views and exciting activities to experience when visiting. From city breaks to sprawling countryside retreats, Ireland offers travellers a mix of holiday options to suit a variety of needs—from the solo travel to family holidays, and even outlets for the social energiser.
Dublin, the thriving capital of the Republic of Ireland, is likely the most well-known city. From visiting the Guinness Storehouse, offering its insightful brewery expertise and Temple Bar, with its lively dining scene and electric undercurrent, to the lesser-known yet equally fascinating, Marsh’s Library with some of its literature dating back to the early 1400’s, guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to potential avenues for adventure. The little ones will also have their hands full, as they can delight in the family-friendly museums and tours, like the Viking Splash Tour, as well as the enchanting Chocolate Warehouse, where they can learn about the history of their favourite food. Another bustling city to explore is Galway, which serves up an array of intriguing activities to guests, from tours of acclaimed
monuments such as the Dunguaire Castle, a 16th century masterpiece to those harbouring a love for wildlife enjoying a day at Burren Nature Sanctuary or Loughwell Farm Park. Both the places are a short drive out of the city. You can also experience the marvellous collection of marine life at Galway Aquarium, Ireland’s National Aquarium. Those in search of fantastic vistas can hop aboard ferries to the beautiful Aran Ashford
Island or drive to the Cliffs of Moher, where they can look out across the seemingly endless Atlantic Ocean. Amongst one of the friendliest cities in Ireland, Cork is another eclectic option not to be missed when visiting the Emerald Isle. Visitors can make their way to Garnish Island, which boasts a microclimate unlike any other the island, enabling it to shelter a
dining options. Located in Limerick, it provides guests with a relaxing stay in luxurious surroundings. A more distinctive option is to embark on a journey on board the Belmond Grand Hibernian, promising stylish contemporary interiors as the picturesque views of the surrounding scenery flash by. The train deftly weaves touches of Georgian design into its modern appeal, which when combined with the quintessentially warm Irish hospitality, make for a truly unforgettable stay.
Entrance to the Adare Manor
unique variety of plants and wildlife. On the way is a special treat for all in the form of Seal Island, home to fur seals, rare birds and the occasional dolphin. The Model Railway Village will be a hit with the little ones as they watch miniature trains make their way through exact replicas of well-known towns and villages. For a truly wondrous experience, adventurers can take to the water for a spot of nighttime kayaking at Lough Hyne, where each paddle stroke will bring to life the enrapturing shine of bioluminescent plankton.
Visit Ireland With double daily flights with Etihad and Emirates to Dublin from Abu Dhabi and Dubai, respectively, it has never been easier to visit the Republic of Ireland. For more inspiration, visit www.ireland.com
Golfing getaways are a favourite in Ireland, which is home to one quarter of all the world’s link courses. The North West Golf Course is one such hidden gem, presenting golfing enthusiasts with an extensive 18-hole experience, tucked within the rugged landscape of County Donegal. Another world-class golfing experience is presented by The Palmer Ryder Cup Course, recognised the world over as one of the greatest golf courses on the European circuit. Located at The K Club Hotel in County Kildare, the course is known to put even the most accomplished of players through their paces, as players find themselves taking on the wits of the legendary Arnold Palmer, the namesake and designer of the golfing heaven.
Cliffs of Mojher
For the avid explorers, Ireland has a number of captivating niche cultural offerings, such as its grand castles, including Ashford Castle, a 5 star Hotel in Co. Mayo, one of Ireland’s most visited castles. Originally built in the 13th century, it’s become a global icon of luxury accommodation. Besides its opulent interior, the estate is a vision during the fall when its magnificent ancient woodlands explode with colour. Guests can try their hand at an extensive range of activities available on the property; from Orvis fly fishing to Ireland’s first school of falconry. Adare Manor is considered to be one of the most opulent hospitality experiences in the world, offering elegant interiors, lush lawns and exquisite gourmet Feb-Mar 2019 / 23
HOTSPOT
TRAVEL GOALS
Bollywood STYLE
Where did the Bollywood’s who’s who travel to ring in the new year. Words: Aarti Kapur Singh
H
ans Christian Anderson had once said, “To travel is to live”, an adage that the jetsetting representatives of Bollywood seem to live by. In 2018, as always, several of the famous and glamorous set out new travel goals for us to follow. So whether you are planning your travel calendar for 2019 or are just curious about what places could be good for celeb spotting, here’s a lowdown on the destinations favoured by Bollywood’s most popular stars.
*All photos have been taken from the official Instagram handles of the mentioned celebrities
Saif Ali Khan & Kareena Kapoor Khan The royal couple of Bollywood, the Chhote Nawab and his Begum, not to forget the adorable Taimur in tow, are forever being snapped at airports by paparazzi. But it was their South African sojourn courtesy, their Instagram pictures, that made us see Cape Town in a completely new light. The royal family frolicked in the ocean, made sand castles on beaches and was snapped taking long walks in the midst of their unnamed holiday resort’s greenery. Later, the family followed a sort of tradition and rang in the new year in Gstaad in Switzerland – a favourite holiday spot. Before heading to Gstaad, Saif, Kareena and Taimur holidayed for a few days in Windsor in England too. The internet was agog with fun pictures of the gang sledging and chilling in the snowclad Swiss landscapes and Taimur seems to totally belong there. With his little nose
Jonas also favoured the cold climes of Switzerland to combine their extended honeymoon (the first leg of which was in Oman) with a family Christmas vacation. The duo have been grabbing eye balls ever since they got married in a lavish do at Umaid Bhavan Palace in Jodhpur. Priyanka Chopra took to her Instagram handle to share some pictures from her snowy vacay and those are sure to leave you spellbound. In the picture, PC and Nick can be seen posing together with the backdrop of snow-clad mountains. They were accompanied by Nick Jonas’ brother Joe, and Joe’s fiancée, Game of Thrones’ actor Sophie Turner. and cheeks just visible out of the winter jackets, all red with the cold, he looked every bit an adorable doll.
Priyanka Chopra Newlyweds Priyanka Chopra and Nick
Anil Kapoor & Family Sonam Kapoor and husband Anand Ahuja enjoyed the holiday season in London with Anil Kapoor, Sunita Kapoor, Rhea Kapoor and their extended family and
have soaked in the sun, the sea and the sand to the fullest at unspecified beaches. Apparently the family also went for a sea cruise on a private yacht. They made the most of this holiday before Nysa heads back to school in Singapore, and Ajay and Kajol head back to work on another hectic schedule of Taanaji: The Unsung Warrior.
Kriti Sanon
friends. The happy bunch headed out to catch the Hamilton Broadway show in London. Later, they thawed their bones in balmy Bali where Sunita Kapoor shared a series of photos posing with her daughters and friends. The photos show us that the house is full in Bali and they are having a memorable time there. Sunita posted the photos with a caption stating, “End to a glorious holiday.. goodbye 2018..#friendslikefamily”.
If there’s anyone who knows how to enjoy year-end, it is the Bareilly Ki Barfi actress Kriti Sanon. The actress packed her bag and flew down to the Maldives with her family to make the most out of her time while bidding adios to 2018. Kriti Sanon was rather regular in sharing her vacay pictures on her Instagram handle to show what a fun time she had in the picturesque location.
The Bachchans France clinched its second World Cup title with a 4-2 win over Croatia in a dramatic final in Moscow. The French took to the city streets in large numbers to celebrate the football team’s win. There, among the multitude celebrating the win in Paris, was Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and her daughter Aaradhya. The mother-daughter duo stepped out on their balcony to take in the sights and sounds of the country celebrating in unison. Ash let fans in on all the action by sharing selfies with her baby girl and also gave firsthand clicks of all the action unfolding on the streets below. While Ash and Aaradhya enjoyed some time together, Abhishek and Amitabh headed over to Russia to catch in on all the action live at the stadium.
Apparently, the vacation was a gift to their parents from both the sisters - Kriti and Nupur. The actress took to her social media handle to share family pictures from her vacation. The family enjoyed the holidays to a hilt, gorging on seafood, spending time sightseeing and even indulged in a few aquatic sports - almost like reliving their childhood again.
Shilpa Shetty Kundra Ajay Devgn & Kajol The Devgn family, Ajay & Kajol with their kids Nysa and Yug brought in the New Year together in Thailand. They seem to
The super-fit Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra and her businessman husband Raj Kundra always find a way to spend quality time, despite their busy
schedules. The family chose to holiday in Hong Kong. The trio explored a lot of Hong Kong – from the sights and sounds to local food and of course high street shopping.
Sanjay Dutt South East Asia also found favour with Sanjay Dutt and his wife Maanyata, who took a break from the daily grind to spend time together as a couple. Reportedly, their twins were looked after by their aunt Priya Dutt, who lives in the same building. Sanju & Maanyata did a lot of shopping and also went for long walks in the Gardens By The Bay. Feb-Mar 2019 / 25
LEISURE
WORTH A
Watch THE HANDMAID’S TALE
The first season of this truly absorbing television series got lead actress Elizabeth Moss (Mad Men) huge acclaim including a much deserved Emmy Award for Best Actress. After the dark ending that shocked viewers, how much darker could it get this time around in Season 2? Turns out, there is no end to human cruelty. Based on the eponymous, prize winning novel by literary genius Canadian author Margaret Atwood, the speculative fiction is so very possible. The USA government has been overthrown
Looking for a good way to spend long hours travelling? Give these gripping shows a try. Words: Vinod Advani
by a cabal of dictators who have turned the nation into a totalitarian state called Gilead. All child-bearing women (called Offreds) are kept in concentration camps and subjugated to inhuman abuse. They are forced to produce progeny for the autocrats whose own wives cannot give birth. June (Elizabeth Moss) is one such Offred whose instinct for survival and struggle to escape makes for compelling viewing. As each episode of Season Two unfolded, I found myself all tensed up and gasping for breath. So will you.
THE AMERICANS Imagine you are living in the 1980s. The cold war between two superpowers (USA and Russia) battling for supremacy is on full swing. There’s no Internet or mobile phones. Everyone in middle class suburbia has squeaky clean lifestyles in homes with lawns. Crime is non-existent. You are best friends with your neighbours who are as American as you are. But are they? What if your best friends are travel agent couple Philip (Matthew Rhys) and Elizabeth (Keri Russell) Jennings who are born and brought up in Russia! A charming couple of spies who have integrated years ago into the community and whose two teenage kids born in the USA have no idea about the real identity of their parents. Talk about heartpumping situations involving double agents living next door? Every episode of this six-season TV serial has at least one high adrenaline climax.
BILLIONS Do you have to be a machine to make billions? That’s the central premise of this hit TV series with two outstanding protagonists. Bobby Axelrod (Damian Lewis of Homeland fame) is fat cat entrepreneur, who believes he is the greatest guy in the world. But if he is all that great, how could a US attorney get Axe all knotted up and checkmate all his illegal money plots? Chuck Rhoades (Paul Giametti) is tactical, strategic, ruthless and power-hungry. No one, not even Axe, can escape the wrath of this US Attorney for southern New York. Here’s the challenge though – his own wife Wendy (Maggie Siff) is the performance coach at Axe Capital. Having worked for Axe over 15 years, she has a strong bond with him and finds it difficult to take sides.
WEST WORLD A mega-corporation has created the ultimate resort called Westworld, where wealthy, high paying guests can live out their every fantasy, in a controlled environment. The resort is maintained by reliable computer technology and peopled by life-like robots. The ultimate resort where nothing can possibly go wrong. But it does and how! Robert Ford (Anthony Hopkins) is the co-founder and Park Director of Westworld. The Man in Black (Ed Harris) is a sadistic veteran guest attempting to uncover Westworld’s innermost secrets. In this complicated sci-fi scenario on planet earth, the producers have created a look at a complex, thought-provoking subject through a visually stunning piece of art. Feb-Mar 2019 / 27
TRAVEL FOR JANUARY
What:
Australian Open Where:
Australia
Where:
Sweden
MAY
Cricket World Cup 2019 Where:
UK and Wales
05 to 17
JUNE
What:
Women’s FIFA World Cup 2019 Where:
30 to 14
France
SEPTEMBER
What:
Rugby World Cup Where:
Japan
FEBRUARY
What:
Alpine World Ski Championships 2019
14 to 27
What:
Sports
20 to 02
07 to 07
OCTOBER
What:
2019 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships Where:
Germany
04 to 13
VFS Global’s handy guide to plan your travel in 2019. Take it home!
MARCH
What:
Bahrain Grand Prix Where:
Bahrain
World Table Tennis Championships 2019
28 to 31
Where:
Hungary
JULY
What:
Wimbledon United Kingdom
01 to 14
Melbourne Cup 2019 Where:
Australia
Where:
South Korea
NOVEMBER
What:
21 to 28
AUGUST
What:
FINA World Masters Championships
Where:
APRIL
What:
05 to 18
DECEMBER
What:
Shenzhen Masters 2019
02 to 09
Where:
China
13 to 15
*Dates as declared on January 31, 2019
GLOBETROTTER
EVENT planner
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VH1 Supersonic February 16-17, Pune, India In the thriving metropolis of Pune gather to attend the Indian version of Ultra. Travel down to see the likes of multi-genre artists such as Marshmello, Bonobo, Cubicolor and Tropkillaz perform live. You can expect massive crowds, technicolour laser shows and lots of dancing.
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Bangkok Design Week February 02-11, Bangkok, Thailand The design festival is aimed at bringing together creative work of Thai and international designers. It will also promote opportunities for them to collaborate. You get a chance to mix with the fashion industry’s biggest names while splurging on some gorgeous pieces.
Check out what’s on around the world in the months of February and March!
Berlin International Film Festival February 07-17, Berlin, Germany For 10 days, the red carpet is rolled out to over 20,000 industry professionals and 500,000 attendees for international premieres. This is also a chance to peek behind the curtain with directors and cast of upcoming films.
Kala Ghoda Arts Festival February 02-10, Mumbai, India Celebrating its 20th year, the festival will pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 105th birth anniversary. The arts festival has sections of visual arts, dance, music, theatre, cinema and literature and a street section with stalls selling handicrafts.
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Haute Route Oman March 01-03, Nizwa, Oman Renown for its crystal clear waters and mesmeric sights, Nizwa will host its first edition of Haute Route. It offers a unique experience combining deep canyons and incredible views across the desert. The cycling route for professionals and amateurs alike will total 370km with 6,500M+ of climbing.
Camel Racing at Al Marmoom February 01-19, Dubai, UAE Experience an authentic display of Emirati heritage with this year’s camel racing season. Join droves of skilled camel riders from around the world as they compete for coveted titles and valuable prizes. The camels are especially trained for racing purposes.
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SX Music Festival
March 13-17, St. Martin, The Caribbean SXMusic is a boutique festival taking place on St Martin. Sort of Ibiza vibes in the Caribbean, only the beaches are even better, the drinks cheaper, and there’s a whole summer’s worth of DJs packed into one spectacular burst.
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Art Basel March 29-31, Hong Kong The renowned art fair brings together works from galleries and artists around the world to one platform and puts emphasis on art rising out of Hong Kong. Art Basel connects collectors, galleries and artists.
10
Port Fairy Folk Festival
March 08-11, Port Fairy, Australia Experience a music fest that combines with gorgeous scenery to deliver powerful performances. There will be hundreds of acts ranging from roots, folk, country to bluegrass, jazz, rock and more!
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Oman World Festival of Folk Music March 14-16, ROHouse, Muscat Performing artists from all over the world, including Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas will be joining Omani maestros in a spectacular venture to wow audiences over three days. Experience the bliss of folk music and rustic art. Feb-Mar 2019 / 31
INDULGE
Baltic
WONDERLAND Fairytale forests, cobbled lanes, ancient castles, Art Nouveau architecture and a number of picturesque towns make Latvia a charming destination for all. Words: Karlis Kikuts
T
he Baltic nation of Latvia is a traveller’s paradise. Fairytale forests, cobbled lanes, ancient castles, art nouveau architecture and a number of picturesque towns, Latvia has it all. With nearly half the country in a natural condition with untouched landscape, it gives visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature at its best. In the autumn months when the leaves start to change their colour, the place turns into a magical wonderland.
St. Peter’s Church at Ratslaukums Square
Kalejala is the longest. For people who like an adrenaline rush, the park offers a plethora of activities, including bungee jumping.
Alberta Iela Often regarded as Riga’s Gem, Alberta Street is full of splendid, historical Art Nouveau-style buildings, of which eight are now recognised as architectural monuments of national significance. Constructed within a short span of time between 1901 and 1908, each of the buildings is decorated with figure sculptures, façades with protruding balconies, columns and other elements of Art Nouveau.
Kuldiga
Turaida Castle in Sigulda
Gauja National Park Established in 1973, the Gauja National Park stretches over more than 90,000 hectares, protecting the most beautiful section of the Gauja Valley that lies along the Gauja river and between the towns of Valmiera and Murjani. The largest and oldest of the national parks in Latvia, the park’s major attractions include magnificent sandstone outcrops, rocks, high cliffs and caves. The caverns in the Gauja National Park are also world-renowned. Gutmanala is the most spacious grotto in the Baltic states;
Also called the Venice of Latvia, Kuldiga became an important economic, administrative and cultural centre of the Duchy of Courland in the 17th century. Granted the European heritage label in 2008, the historical buildings of the town along with its unique character, create a harmonious ensemble. While visiting, you can take the Goldingen train ride through the Old Town to see the Saint Catherine’s Church. Another highlight of the town is the Alekšupite Waterfall. The highest in Latvia (4.5 m high), it was built on the Alekšupite river and was used to operate the first paper mill in Kurzeme.
Ancient Castles While Latvia is home to over 100 castles, of all sizes, a few of them are known globally simply for their sheer grandness and historical importance. However, the smaller ones too deserve a visit for their
medieval ambience and legends. A large number of these castles are now in ruin, but a few of them, such as Turaida Castle, Cesis Castle, and Bauska Castle still stand, and can even be toured. For example, the Turaida Castle is an outstanding example of Medieval architecture from 1214 and the Cesvaine Palace has been included in the list of European cultural heritage. There are museums in many castles that inform visitors about the culture and life of the Middle Ages.
Rundale Palace and Museum Rundale Palace is the most wonderful example of baroque and rococo architecture in Latvia. Set amidst the fertile Zemgale Plains in South Latvia, the Rundale Palace and Museum works as a centre for research into Latvia’s history, through creating collections, arranging exhibitions and producing publications. Displays in the exhibition halls include applied art, fine art and historical expositions.
Riga Central Market Situated in the heart of Riga, on the banks of the River Daugava, is one of the largest marketplaces in Eastern Europe. About 80,000-100,000 people shop here per day on average. Here, you can buy Latviangrown and homemade products, exotic fruit and spices, as well as manufactured merchandise. Comprising of five separate pavilions for vegetables, dairy, meat, fish and other gastronomical products, it also has as an outdoor area with stalls and stands, a Night Market and a ‘Round-the-Clock’ Farmers Market. Feb-Mar 2019 / 33
PEOPLE & PLACES
‘LATVIA’S
unique ATTRACTIONS ARE
DRAWING TRAVELLERS’
In an exclusive interview, His Excellency Mr. Artis Bertulis, the Ambassador of Latvia to India, talks to CompassTM explaining why this scenic European nation is fast emerging as a popular travel destination In recent years, Latvia has emerged as one of the top tourism destinations in the world. What would you say is the most extraordinary tourism attraction in Latvia? Latvia, being a country in North Europe by the Baltic Sea, offers an opportunity to discover and enjoy the four seasons – winter, spring, summer and autumn. Each season has its own beauty and draws travellers from around the globe to explore the unique attractions. Latvia offers: its Song and Dance Celebration, once in five years Latvia becomes the largest choir in the world, including it in a UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage Festival, amber, wooden houses, fresh food, summer festivals, Art Nouveau architecture and much more.
How important is India as a market for Latvia tourism? What kind of outbound numbers have you observed? We are happy to see that Latvia attracts travellers from different parts of the world. Even though Latvia might not be the most common choice for Indian tourists, we are happy to observe an increase in numbers in the past years. It feels like a great match that many Indians enjoy. With the growth of students from India in Latvian universities, Latvia is becoming a more known destination for travellers from the Indian subcontinent.
Are there any new or off-beat destinations you would like to recommend for travellers to Latvia? On 18 November 2018, Latvia celebrated the centenary of its Independence. The celebrations will be taking place for five years, from 2017 until 2021. We
Old town with Dome cathedral and Daugava river in Riga city
welcome you to join the biggest birthday party that you could possibly attend!
What tips can you offer to Indian nationals applying for Latvia visas? Latvia is co-operating with the VFS Global for the visa processing in India, offering applicants the opportunity to submit visa applications at 14 centres across India. The list of the documents as well as all the latest updates regarding visa processing procedures, up to date, are available both at the Embassy and the VFS Global webpage.
How will you describe the relationship between India and Latvia? I am honoured to have come to India as we are celebrating the 100 years of established statehood of Latvia and the 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, India’s political and spiritual leader. This symbolic backdrop is inspirational for continuing to develop and expand the growing dynamics of diplomatic, trade, educational and cultural exchange between Latvia and India.
Latvia has become a more known destination for travellers from the Indian subcontinent The Latvian diplomatic Mission to India was opened in New Delhi in 2015. Since then our relationship has been brought to the next level, including historic visit exchanges at the highest levels – the Speaker of the Parliament and the Prime minister. The size of our countries differ greatly, though we are connected through our shared beliefs in democratic values and respect to human rights, justice, rule of law and joint interests to maintain the rules-based international order, which is especially crucial as we are experiencing historic shifts in global political and economic landscape. Latvia is determined also to play a proactive and constructive role in the
EU-India partnership as those who really benefit from this dialogue are ordinary people – entrepreneurs, teachers, students and travellers. Promoting connectivity, people-topeople, cultural and educational ties between Latvia and India is one of my commitments. I hope that the evergrowing interaction between our countries on various levels would result also in new and direct routes in terms of travelling between Riga and Delhi.
What do you enjoy the most about India? I have arrived to India just a few months ago and I have already been astonished by the dynamics of the country. India is an experience for all senses! Hospitality and warmth of the people, colours of the everyday life, diversity of culture and languages, yet at the same time the unity of the people, as well as surprises around every corner make this posting to be a unique experience and make every day an adventure! I am looking forward to the upcoming years in India! Feb-Mar 2019 / 35
CITYSCAPE
72 HOURS
Cape IN
TOWN
What’s the best way to soak in the numerous delights of scenic Cape Town? Vinod Advani shares his journey
I
t’s going to pour at any moment. The heavens look ready to unload, but it’s not going to deter my friends who are determined that we drink champagne at noon atop Table Mountain. Who am I to disagree? Armed with umbrellas we sit halfway up the mountain, waiting for the modern cableway that helps one reach the summit 1,086 metres above sea level. The notice board also informs us that we can get to the top ‘weather permitting’. Waiting for the officials and nature to make up their minds, we open the portable cooler, take out the bottle and pop the champers.
Table Mountain Named for its striking shape and famed as a natural wonder, Table Mountain can be accessed by cable car to the very top. The cars rotate 360 degrees during the trip and what a view it is! Below us lie pristine beaches, sheltered bays and secluded coves and between the mountain and the deep blue ocean is spread out the cosmopolitan hub of Cape Town. Table Mountain was declared a World Heritage Site in 2001. A number of species found
WHERE TO EAT There are hundreds of restaurants, ranging from expensive to affordable street food. Here are some names that will cost under Rands 50, per person. Bon appetit. One of the best seafood restaurants, Lemon Butta has an extensive menu, ranging from vegetarian to various beef cuts. Hussar Grill is a restaurant chain famed for its meat dishes. The mains are all about the meat. A family-run restaurant The Indian Chapter offers authentic Indian cuisine and its curry dishes are absolutely delicious. Ricks Café, an 80-seater restaurant, has an ambience that is right out of the classic movie Casablanca. With a lounge and cocktail bar spilling out onto a roof deck surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountains, this one is a hit with tourists.
here are unique, existing nowhere else in the world like the Table Mountain ghost frog and the well-known mountain rabbit called Dizzie Dassie! Ravines, waterfalls
Aerial view of Cape of Good Hope
and indigenous plants add to the delights offered, with something for everyone— hikers, rock climbers, paragliders and bird-watchers.
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront Cape Town’s municipal caretakers have made sure the city’s manmade charms do not suffer in comparison. Built in 1860, and still a working harbour, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront has been developed into one of South Africa’s biggest tourist attractions. Annually around 24 million visitors have fun at this food and entertainment area, which preserves its historic character. Original buildings have been renovated and new ones built, all in Victorian style. Luxury accommodation is amply available. The superb Table Bay hotel, where I have stayed twice in the past, and the Cape
Grace Hotel, where I have had some pretty memorable dinners, occupy pride of place on different sites facing the ocean. In addition, there are museums, boat cruises, restaurants, pubs, shopping centres, cinemas, an amphitheatre, craft markets, Two Oceans Aquarium, the Scratch Patch and a rich variety of outdoor entertainment! Come nightfall, visitors flock here for food and entertainment aplenty.
Mother City For the original settlers from The Netherlands who arrived here all those centuries ago around 1652, the sight of the majestic Table Mountain must have been as welcoming then as it is today, providing a magnificent backdrop to Mother City. Mother City is the area around modern day Cape Town where the country’s history of colonisation started, when the Dutch East India Company established a
The Cape Peninsula National Park is a 7750 hectares reserve of indigenous flora and fauna that is zealously protected. 17th century victualling station on Table Bay’s pristine shore. With colonisation, the Cape of Good Hope established a lasting tradition of hospitality, leading weary explorers and sailors to rename it ‘The Tavern of the Seas’.
Penguins Pirouette We’re setting out, bright and chirpy on a misty morning with our guide-cumchauffeur, who like all guides in South Africa, is fully qualified after submitting to a tough course and exam. Just out of our superb Table Bay Hotel at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, we head towards Simons Town, a picturesque, old English
seaside resort where you must stop. Five minutes away is Boulders Bay, where colonies of penguins breed, eat and swim. It’s fascinating to watch these birds walk and hop over rocks just like we humans would do and then dive into the waters like dolphins. African Penguins are also popularly known as jackass penguins because of their distinctive braying, and they’re the only penguins found on the continent.
Cape Point Remember your geography lessons in school? When they taught you about the two oceans that meet in harmony at Cape Feb-Mar 2019 / 37
CITYSCAPE
Penguins at Boulders Bay
Point? The Cape Point, with its diverse habitats, ranging from rocky mountain tops to beaches and open sea and the Cape of Good Hope, is home to at least 250 species of birds. Large animals are a rare sight here, but there are a wealth of small animals such as lizards, snakes, tortoises and insects. But let’s not forget the Papio Ursinus community, known to you as baboons who are rampant here subsisting on fruits, insects and scorpions. Anticipation is rife, as we drive through the entrance. The Cape Peninsula National Park is a 7,750 hectares reserve of indigenous flora and fauna that is zealously protected and impeccably maintained, with sign-posted roads. A great deal of care has been taken to protect the environmental integrity of the place. For the best view, you have to make your way up to the platform of the Old Lighthouse. Some tourists prefer to walk on a pleasantly landscaped path, which takes you by easy stages to the top, the other alternative is to go up on the funicular railway. There is still a climb of 125 steps from the top of the funicular to the Old Lighthouse, but the extra effort is well worth it.
REMEMBER • The local currency is South African Rand. 1 USD equals approximately 14 Rands. • A 10% tip is acceptable although up to 15% may be given if service is outstanding. Tables of over eight often have an automatic 10% service charge added to the bill. • There’s an airport bus service that operates between Cape Town International and the City Centre. Metered taxis are widely available at the airport, and a trip to city centre will cost between R300-400.
the east. The interplay between these two massive and powerful ocean currents is the key to understanding the changeable nature of the Cape weather, which we experienced firsthand, rather suddenly. One minute it’s a clear day, the next, storm clouds have appeared out of nowhere. Before we can get off the platform of the lighthouse, the sky has opened and thick cold drops come pelting down. We are wet, but we walk down to the station base happy and hungry, trooping into the one and only restaurant that seats 300 people. A window table, hot piping food and a bottle of red Pinotage wine.
Robben Island The view from the platform of the old Cape Point lighthouse is simply magnificent. I look down at the fury of the sea. Considerable disagreement has always existed as to exactly where the division between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean lies. Some put it at Cape Point and some at Cape Agulhas. It probably swings between the two, depending on whether the warm Agulhas current moves further to the west or the cold Benguela current moves to
Who in the world has not heard of Nelson Mandela? This remarkable leader spent 18 of his 27 years in prison here on Robben Island, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the island’s history predates the Apartheid regime. Over the centuries, it has acted as a prison, a military base and a leper colony. Ferries depart for the island daily from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront, and the tours (including the ferry trips) usually last about three-and-a-half hours.
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ADVENTURE
Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo ISLAND! HAPPY HOLIDAYS ON
I
magine this: seals basking on quiet
beaches, koalas munching on gum trees, echidnas wandering around without a care, kangaroos and wallabies hopping and skipping at every turn. At the Kangaroo Island Penguin Centre, the kids will love the chance to get up close and personal with a host of wildlife, including laughing
Famous worldwide for being the habitat of Earth’s most diverse range of animals and birds, a trip to Kangaroo Island is an absolute paradise for nature lovers. There are plenty of things to keep kids busy on a family holiday here. See the wildlife, go quad biking, sandboarding and snorkelling and more!
kookaburras or slithery snakes. No wonder that Kangaroo Island is known as
Don’t miss
Australia’s ‘zoo without fences’. In size,
Explore the island that has an infinite variety of attractions, all gifted by the Mother Nature. First stop is at Seal Bay, a large sandy beach and dune area where Australian Sea Lions bask in the sun after emerging from the ocean having eaten a fishy breakfast. From
it is seven times larger than Singapore! One-third of Kangaroo Island is protected as conservation and national parks. The award-winning Parndana Wildlife Park here is also famous for its birds.
Families have a delightful experience at this zoo without fences Words: Vinod Advani specially constructed platforms watch and learn about a large colony of these rare aquatic mammals and hear them sing as they nurture their young. Next is Vivonne Bay, the base of Cray fishing and game-fishing boats. After that, take a guided tour of the sinkholes and caverns in Kelly Hills Caves of ornate calcite formations. A half hour-drive away, the landscape is dominated by the awesome Remarkable Rocks! This is a cluster of massive, granite boulders towards the sea. Over the centuries, wind and weather have carved out the most awesome sculptures from these ancient granite boulders. It’s so
jaw-droppingly impressive, like a meeting of the minds of Henri Moore and Salvador Dali! Close by is the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1906. From here walk down to Admirals Arch, home to a colony of New Zealand Fur Seals. This fur seal colony now numbers over 100,000. These animals can be observed at rest on the rocks or frolicking in the surf under Admirals Arch – a spectacular coastal grotto. Ranging in size from tiny pups to 250kg full-grown two-metre long males, these fascinating creatures can dive to depths of 380 metres!
Visit a farm The locals here love getting involved in your holiday. You can watch sheep shearing or see some of the rarest farm animals. See more than 60 varieties of lavender on the island’s two lavender farms and there are also two honey farms, where you can sample some unique Ligurian honey and honey ice cream. Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park lets you feed their kangaroos and other native animals. For a real eye-opener, visit Paul’s Place. You won’t leave without patting or holding the wildlife. If you’re game, the place also has some friendly snakes. The two parks also feature large collections of rare birds. For more, visit Raptor Domain, which has daily interactive birds shows and a ‘Fang-Tastic’ reptile display. Have you ever been to a farm where the stock lay hundreds of eggs, have big claws and live under water? Two Wheeler Creek is an extraordinary farm, which produces wine, sheep for wool, native spices (lemon myrtle and native pepper) and Marron – an Australian freshwater crayfish. Here you can learn about breeding ponds, harvesting the marron and then get to sample them in the restaurant right on the farm, accompanied by Two Wheeler Creek wines. Kangaroo Island was declared a bee sanctuary to protect the only remaining population of Ligurian bees introduced from Italy in 1886. This cottage industry is emerging as an important part of the island’s food scene. Taste a range of honeys at traditional farm gate Cliffords Honey Farm.
Cape du Couedic Lighthouse
Food & wine
How to reach From Adelaide city, catch a morning flight to Kangaroo Island or drive from Adelaide to Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula to catch the car/ passenger ferry across to the island. You can either hire or take your own car on the SeaLink ferry or hire one on Kangaroo Island.
If you’re staying at Penneshaw, Dudley Wines Cellar Door is a particularly classy affair. It combines jaw-dropping scenery with a well-established range of wines and local produce. The cellar door is situated 12 kms from Penneshaw on the cliff tops of Kangaroo Island’s stunning north coast. Later explore the Dudley Peninsula. This beautiful part of the Island includes Cape Willoughby lighthouse, Feb-Mar 2019 / 41
Tourists visit the cave of Admirals Arch
Antechamber Bay and the picturesque seaside town of Penneshaw.
Dudley Wines Cellar Door
Sip your way through Kangaroo Island Brewery, which is the Island’s first cellar door microbrewery. Offering great craft beer and excellent food, it is located close to Kingscote. There are eight different craft beers available to sample; it’s a brilliant place to enjoy handmade beverages. Head to Kingscote travelling via Windmill Bay and Mount Thisby (Prospect Hill), which is the highest point in the area, and provides a marvellous view of Pelican Lagoon, the rolling hills and the Southern Ocean at Pennington Bay (a wonderful surf beach).
Adventure sports Interested in adventure sports like quad biking and sandboarding? Come to Little Sahara, an area of white sand dunes surrounded by bush vegetation. When you climb over the first ridge you are confronted by a second, much higher dune that, when scaled, reveals more dunes that are flanked by bush land. A guided Quad Bike Tour with the team at Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action is the best way to see an otherwise inaccessible part of the island. Ride your own quad bike (ATV) through 500 acres of open grassland and pristine native bush, checking out wildlife and stunning views of the Southern Ocean along the way.
Head to Kangaroo Island Brewery, which is the Island’s first cellar door microbrewery. It offers great craft beer and excellent food
you back to those rugged times. Visit the Hope Cottage Folk Museum in Kingscote to see some rare South Australian history. Kingscote was the state’s first official settlement and the museum is in one of three cottages built there in 1856. Take time to admire the old farm machinery, car memorabilia and photographs. There’s even a lighthouse to explore.
Hotels Learn about island life Early settler history on Kangaroo Island includes stories of seal and whale hunters and shipwrecks. The old whaling equipment and seal skins at the Maritime and Folk Museum at Penneshaw will take
The Southern Ocean Lodge is a true luxury lodge, offering a unique and exclusive travel experience on Kangaroo Island in South Australia. Three and four star accommodation options are also available on the island.
OUTDOOR
Magic THE
OF JAPAN’S SAKURA
If the Land of the Rising Sun is on your travel bucket-list for 2019, follow the age-old advice and head to Japan during their Cherry Blossom Season between March and May
Variations and Terms The bloom of cherry blossom depends highly on the topography of the location. Milder the climate, earlier and more longlasting is the bloom. South to North in Japan, the subtropical islands of Okinawa, have their blooming season as early as January, while on the northern island of Hokkaido the flowering can be as late as May. In most major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, the season typically takes place in early April. While cherry blossoms in their entirety are extremely pretty to look at with some common traits, there are some striking differences found within the sakura family in terms of hues, shape, size and botanical properties. Japan is home to over 200 varieties of sakura!
Words: Chhavi Nagpal Cherry Blossom Crawling Across Japan, there are several spots that are perfect for engaging in Hanami while the season is in full bloom. Here are some places you can approach to enjoy great sake and beautiful sakura. Mount Yoshino, Nara Within the Yoshino-Kumano National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Yoshino is a sprawling landscape covered in a blanket of pink sakura. The mountain is divided into four areas: Shimo Senbon, Naka Senbon, Kami Senbon and Oku Senbon. All of them have attractive hiking trails, viewpoints, parks, temples and shrines and plenty of food stalls. Alongside its 30,000 cherry trees of different kinds, the site is worth visiting for heritage structures such as Kinpusenji Temple and Yoshimizu Shrine.
Night view of cherry blossoms at Meguro river
P
ink and iconic, the Cherry Blossom is a symbol of life’s transient nature in Japanese culture. In traditional Japanese art, Irezumi, cherry blossoms are a prevalent symbol resembling clouds, being a metaphor for the ephemeral nature of life. The first bloom of the season is known as Kaika and the full bloom point is known as Mankai.
Also known as Sakura locally, the flower’s presence has been celebrated in Japan for centuries. The exquisite beauty of the blossoms attracts millions of tourists from all over the world during the blooming season between March and May, turning Japan into a riot of colours. Here are a few things you should know before you fly to Japan for a mesmerising experience:
Kakunodate, Akita Kakunodate Samurai District is a wellknown historic site for Akita Prefecture. If you are on a mission to experience both cherry blossom and samurai architecture in a single place, this is your stop. It’s a great place to visit, blessed with beautiful samurai houses and hundreds of cherry trees. You can also picnic under the cherry trees on the banks of the Hinokinai river. Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo Tokyo is a unique city full of history and tourist attractions. Shinjuku Gyoen is one
Cherry blossom at Higashiyama District in Kyoto
of the largest and most popular parks in the city. An exclusive hanami spot, the best time to visit the park is in the early hours of morning. More than 1,000 cherry trees can be found scattered throughout the park. Kawazu, Shizuoka Located on the eastern coast of Izu Peninsula, Kawazu is a small town that boasts of being one of the earliest blooming, sakura-viewing spots. Kawazu-
Sake and Sakura
While weeping cherry is the most common variety found everywhere, there are other varieties of cherry blossoms you can find in Japan. Some of them include: Somei Yashino, Yamazakura, Shidarezakura, Edohigan, Kanzan, Ichiyou, Kanhizakura, Kikuzakura, Ukon and Fugenzou.
zakura is the symbol of the town. Its bright pink-coloured petals are very appealing and the town has approximately 8,000 cherry trees to please your eyes. The Kawazu river running through the town is lined with cherry trees on both sides.
Go Hanami Rich in colour and extremely graceful, bloom of the cherry blossom is celebrated through various methods across the country, including the tradition of hanami parties. Japanese culture believes sakura trees to contain holy spirits; to pay respect to them the people used to make rice wine offerings in the past. This grew into a celebratory tradition of feasting, drinking and making merry. Hanami today is all about BYOB (bring your own bottle) picnics with home-cooked food or barbecues and a good time with loved ones. The parties are a good place to learn about Japanese culture and drinking etiquette. You can go hiking, go boating in cherry parks, sit under the tress and click photos or just have a drink or two. Hanami is often a day-long affair, stretching into the chilly spring nights with the cherry trees lit up in pretty lights! Feb-Mar 2019 / 45
ABOUT VFS GLOBAL
citizen
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Residents in the UAE and India benefit from tech-enabled public services delivered by VFS Global
s governments around the world work towards continually upgrading public service offerings for citizens, elements of digitalisation, transparency, speed and service
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efficiency are integral for public-facing services.
In India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), professionally managed citizen service centres and first-of-its-kind
Dubai Courts Services Centre in Dubai Location: Wafi Mall, 1st Floor, Sheikh Rashid Road, Dubai, UAE Services provided: : Notary Public Services, Services for Amicable Settlement of Disputes, Personal Status Authentication Services and legalisation of MOUs, MOAs, Statement of Claims and registration of Power of Attorney. Ministry: Dubai Courts Business Hours: 0800hrs to 2000hrs (Sunday to Thursday) Call: +971 43347777
Technology-driven facilities designed to deliver efficiently managed services ranging from court services, residency permit registration, health check-up services, to municipal services and
business licencing registration, among several others, are all geared towards ensuring that a resident’s needs are met seamlessly from start to finish. From seeking information online or through dedicated customer support channels to the proficient expedition of digitalised procedures, citizens are ensured an enhanced customer experience.
Medical Examination Centres for Residency Visas in Dubai Ibn Battuta Mall location: Ibn Battuta Mall, China Court, next to DEWA Customer Happiness Centre, Dubai, UAE Dragon Mart 2 location: Dragon Mart 2, 1st Floor, near Novo Cinemas, Dubai, UAE Services provided: End-to-end Medical Fitness Test Services for Residency Visa purposes with reports shared in 48 working hours to a customer’s preferred digital medium. Ministry: Ministry of Health & Prevention (MOHP) Business Hours (Medical Examination applications are accepted up to one hour prior to indicated closing time) : Sunday to Thursday: 0900 hrs–2100 hrs | Saturday: 0900 hrs–1600 hrs | Call: +971 56 5059204 / +971 50 2109073 | Email: Mec.ibn@moh.gov.ae, Mec.dg2@moh.gov.ae
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ABOUT VFS GLOBAL
SERVICES FOR OVERSEAS INVESTORS IN THE UAE To enhance the ease of doing business and making investments in the UAE, public entities of the Government of Dubai such as the DIFC Wills Service Centre (WSC) and Dubai Economy have launched services that enable overseas investors to complete a wide range of registration and administrative tasks from their country of residence. What would have normally involved making several trips for executing these services can now be conveniently completed without having to travel to Dubai. Dubai Economy Services Centre in Mumbai Location: Urmi Axis Building, Ground Floor, Doctor E Moses Road, Mahalaxmi West, Mumbai, India Services provided: Dubai Business Registrations & Licensing (BRL) services for the Indian business community in India. E-services provided at the centre include, business license issuance and renewals, reservation and renewal of trade name, and license modification and cancellation services. Ministry: Department of Economy Development, Dubai Business Hours: 09:00-17:00 hrs (Monday to Thursday) DIFC Wills Service Centre (WSC) Virtual Registry & Identity Verification Services
CITIZEN FACILITATION CENTRES IN MUMBAI
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THE NEXT LEVEL IN
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AND CONVENIENCE
VFS Global’s Privilege Program launched in the UAE and India provides applicants with tailor-made packages to deliver bespoke experiences for travellers
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rafted to delight visa applicants with a host of meaningful benefits and privileges, the VFS Global Privilege Program* simplifies the overall visa application and travel experience. Be it before or even during travel, the program’s intuitively designed services liberate members from frequently experienced travel-related complexities and apprehensions.
In India, the membership programs, tailor-made for travellers of varied groups, include the Gold Privilege, the Silver Privilege, the Gold Family Privilege, the Student Privilege and the Senior Citizens Privilege programs. In the United Arab Emirates, the membership programs, meticulously designed for the selective global citizen, include the Platinum Privilege, the Gold Privilege and the Silver Privilege programs. In both India and the UAE, members have access to ‘Always On’ services, which are available for use any number of times during the entire period of the membership validity. A dedicated global Privilege Helpdesk number enables members to simply pick up the phone and receive information on the range of membership services available to them. Furthermore, members can request for guidance on where documentation and visa related queries can be efficiently resolved, receive assistance with booking an appointment or receive help with any travel related queries they may have.
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The Premium Lounge services along with all the other privileges are exceptionally good! The staff were very helpful. The personalised assistance and the ambience of the lounge was remarkable. Dhanashree Dalvi, Silver Privilege Member
The overall service was excellent, from the speed at which my application was accepted, the comfort and ambience at the centre, to the staff courtesy. I’m so glad to have become a Privilege Program member. Piyush Tejwani, Silver Privilege Member
The benefits of this program are very helpful for a person like me who travels a lot. Nice services and I am very happy to be part of the Gold membership program! Seyed Hamidreza Khalilpour, Gold Privilege Member
It is a good service for people who care about their time and value for money. The staff help you with applying for your visa in the right way and it is also a very comfortable submission experience.
When members set out on their travels, a specialised 24x7 Global Travel SOS Helpline is available for them to call should an emergency arise. Be it the loss of a passport or legal assistance in a foreign country, help will be just a call away. When at the Visa Application Centre, members receive personalised service in the comfort of VFS Global’s world-class Premium Lounges from dedicated Relationship Managers, who personally assist them with the entire application process. Under the Platinum tier, members in the UAE can opt to submit their applications in the ultra-luxurious Platinum Lounge or via the convenience of ‘doorstep visa services’, which allows them to submit their entire application from the location of their choice anywhere in the UAE. Gold members in the UAE also have the exclusive benefit of opting for VFS Global’s doorstep visa services. A host of useful other services such as insurance, Forex, SIM cards, travel concierge services and even arrangements for driving licences are also available for added convenience to members. Additionally, complimentary services ranging from courier services, photocopying and printing to SMS status alerts, are offered to take care of a member’s every travel related need all under one roof. A holistic overview of the packages reveals that they have been created to empower travellers, who are at different stations of life. Thoughtfully enveloping the diverse needs of each category of travellers, the VFS Global Privilege Program** is proof of the company’s multi-dimensional approach to travel-care and travel facilitation.
To enroll and for detailed information on the programs and applicability to your region, please
Mohammad Reza Farahbaksh, Silver Privilege Member
visit www.vfsglobal-privilege.com. You can also call 1800 266 9720 (India) / +971 4 205 5908 (UAE), or email us at enquiries@vfsglobal-privilege.com or visit your trusted Travel Agent for more details.
*VFS Global Privilege Program services are currently available only in select countries and for select missions. ** Membership tiers and benefits vary as per the region.
Feb-Mar 2019 / 51
INITIATIVE
CREATING
value
An overview of VFS Global’s social initiatives in 2018
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World War II monument restoration Team members of the Russia Visa Application Centre in Frankfurt organised a bake sale to celebrate the restoration of the local World War II monument and tombs of the fallen soldiers.
s a global industry leader, VFS Global
Team India gives back to society
acknowledges its corporate responsibility
The Ahmedabad team, in association with the NGO Samvedana, visited a local municipal school in January 2018. The team donated non-perishable food items like biscuits, juice packets, chocolates, stationery items, soft toys and warm clothes for the children, and old clothes for their families as well as nearby villagers.
towards sustained and long-term development of its business, in line with ethical best practices and sustainability requirements of our clients.
The company is also committed to upholding human rights, anti-corruption compliance and environment-friendly operating practices. In its efforts to create the most value for the benefit of the company, its people, clients, partners and society, VFS Global teams across the world, throughout 2018, participated in a plethora of initiatives aimed at the progressive development of the communities around them.
Team London support the Romanov Rehab centre in St Petersburg The Russia Visa Application Centre team in London received a Certificate of Gratitude from the Romanov Rehab centre in St Petersburg, which they support on voluntary basis. Romanov Rehab Centre takes care of the rehabilitation of children diagnosed with cerebral palsy and asthma.
While the Mumbai team was celebrating the Indian Independence Day in August 2018, local NGO Kshitij, which employs adults with intellectual disabilities to create exquisite hand-crafted items and chocolates, was invited to sell its products.
Team Munich visits city’s oldest pet shelter
Team Europe pledges to The Shoe That Grows
The Russia VAC team in Munich raised EUR101,42 to purchase food and toys for the oldest Pet Shelter in the city. 175 years old, the shelter has several animals under its care, and the employees had an opportunity to visit them. Employees of the shelter expressed their gratitude to VFS Global for the initiative and active participation in the life of their wards.
Team Europe pledged to The Shoe That Grows, a charity that collects funds for the purchase of shoes for underprivileged children in Africa. Each shoe at the charity costs USD20. On 25 July 2018, the regional office in London participated in a sponsorship walk for the charity. Along with the team’s other initiatives, they have so far collected GBP 1,469 (more than 100 pairs of shoes).
DADOBRO.COM: MAKING A DIFFERENCE DaDobro.com is a public, non-profit voluntary organisation, based in Russia, which currently supports 75 projects across Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and the UK. Currently, 3000 volunteers from 100 companies across 50 cities volunteer their time in partnership with DaDobro.com. In a uniquely different approach, DaDobro.com does not collect monetary aid, but works towards being a ‘voluntary movement’ that concentrates on connecting companies with social needs of the day. Volunteers of DaDobro.com take care of those in need of care and support without any financial compensation. DaDobro.com’s concepts are built on global best practices of corporate volunteering. The philosophy and beliefs of DaDobro.com are based on the principles of freedom, responsibility and selfless good deeds. DaDobro.com aims at developing a volunteering lifestyle and providing companies a channel to engage their employees through encouragement of carrying out good deeds wherever and whenever possible.
VFS Global staff in Kazakhstan collecting and delivering warm clothes and food to five families in need
DaDobro.com volunteer supporting a New Year event held at a social rehabilitation centre in Vologda and Viborg in Russia
For more information and enquiries please visit www. dadobro.com or write in to support@dadobro.com. VFS Global staff in Russia participating in a large-scale environmental action, Da! to Planet, aimed at collecting harmful waste material
DaDobro.com volunteers delivering gifts to young patients at children’s hospitals in Russia as part of the “Boxes of Courage’ initiative Nov-Dec 2018 / 53
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