December 2015 by whereabouts

RNI No.: DELENG/2014/59308

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Volume II Issue III December 2015

Annual Subscription ` 660

In Conversation

Vasudha Sondhi MD, Outbound Marketing

Need to Know

Technology Middle East online travel market to double in value to US$35 billion in next two years

DUDHWA

NATIONAL PARK Feedback The 4th International Tourism Mart for the North East Region 2015 Whereabouts

Seven Must See Places in the Picturesque City of Philadelphia

NEWS IN BRIEF

AVIATION

NTO

HOSPITALITY

DISCOUNT & OFFERS

6 INTERNATIONAL 8DAY OF YOGA News in Brief

Recommend to read

ASSOCIATION COVER STORY

New appointments at WTTC-II WAI launches India Chapter

Recommend

ENCOURAGES INDIAto read TOURISM TO CONCENTRATE TRAVEL BUSINESS ON THIS IMPORTANT COMPONENT OF TOURISM

VFS Global opens largest visa application centre in Asia at ASSOCIATION New Delhi OTOAI elects EC members for the term 2015-17 Recommend to read

11 14 Vasudha Sondhi 16 MoT

Nothing Official About Itâ&#x20AC;Ś Implementing Sustainable Tourism Criteria for India

EXCLUSIVE

Recommend

to read Rajasthan gears up to attract 50 million domestic & 2.5 million STATE foreign tourists by 2018 Kerala Tourism announces Partnership Meets 2015-16 AVIATION

Qatar Airways announces first A350 XWB route to Recommend USA to read

NTO

25 28 OMAN 30 34 TRADE

Bulgaria to open six more visa centres across Indiaof the Travelport's Student Year brings talented Recommend to read candidates to the industry

WHEREABOUTS

WHEREABOUTSSeven

Must See Places in the Picturesque City of Philadelphia Recommend to read

HOSPITALITY

Park Inn by Radisson enters The Leading in Amritsar MICE Destination NTO

Recommend

to read Jordan to promote diversity TECHNOLOGY of the country through various platforms Amadeus to build & foster travel tech start-up community in Asia NTO Pacific with Amadeus Next GNTO embarks upon Recommend to read tier II cities HOSPITALITY

We are not after the top-line; rather we are keener in building the business the sustainable way: Prakash Bang

ON THE COVER

IN CONVERSATION

AVIATION

Airbus unites businesses in MD, Outbound Marketing India under single company Recommend to read

AVIATION IN-CONVERSATION

My has Aireach Indiaassignment launches maiden flight to given a new insight in to San me Francisco various aspects of hospitality Recommend business & industry nuances: to read Sudhir Sinha

AVIATION NEED TO KNOW

Dudhwa National Park NALANDA

Ancient Seat of Learning Recommend

team@whereabouts

to read

Editor & Publisher

Marketing Executives

rajesh@whereabouts.in

Dheeraj Anand Regional Head-North &West

Managing Editor

Principal Advisor

Rajesh Tiwari

Mamta Tiwari

Anil Prakash

Editorial

Design

Jai Kishan Kaparwan Alvin

Sales & Marketing Solomon Sexena Country Head solomon@whereabouts.in

Mithlesh Kr Gupta

Accounts Prem Prakash Mishra

Legal Advisor Brijesh Tiwari

ON THE COVER-MURAL ART, PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY

EDITOR’S NOTE

WHO SAID WHAT For Varanasi it is double good news. The city joins @UNESCO Creative Cities Network & new convention centre will be built with Japan’s help. Narendra Modi, PM, India

Dear Readers, ETV -The Electronic Travel Authorization (renamed as e-Tourism Visa) launched in November 2014 initially for 47 countries with a target to add at least 147 countries has been the talk of the town during the year 2015. It has been prime focus and big hope to be the driving force for inbound tourism industry. The relaxation in visa policies is being considered as a promising way to draw tourists to India, but at end of the day how much we got after all these relaxations? Almost negligible.

The address of Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Culture & Civil Aviation at the inaugural of the 13th National Steam Congress was indeed inspiring. A simple down to earth man with a zeal to work is how our Minister can be best described. His support to the cause of steam locomotives shall indeed prove vital in the preservation and limited operation of this glorious heritage of mankind. Ashwani Lohani CMD Air India

INFOTAINMENT

The biggest drawback for the Ministry of Tourism, govt of India has been creating awareness about e-TV and lack of clarity on formalities to obtain visa for India. There has been a lot of confusion between Electronic Travel Authorization and Visa of Arrival.

IATA ‫@‏‬IATA Dec 9 Worldwide airline share prices fell 6% in Nov. amid concerns Paris attacks may impact demand http://ht.ly/VEDv2

We have been receiving the press releases from Ministry of Tourism showing tremendous growth in FTA’s over the same period in 2014. However, the response from industry doesn’t support this growth and according to them the ‘Organized Tourism’ (inbound) has gone down.

UNWTO ‫@‏‬UNWTO Dec 11 Did you know? #Tourism accounts for 10% of global GDP! Learn more: http://ow.ly/FqwMz

I hope the govt will have a re-check and get better response from e-TV in the year 2016.

Keep Visiting, Keep updating Just one click & enter into the world of information. All the latest from Travel Business be it Tourism, Aviation, Hotels, Technology, Cruise, OTA, Visa & much more... MANTRA MEDIA GROUP

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NEWS IN BRIEF

UNWTO Affiliate Members Board elects new Chairman

he UNWTO Affiliate Members Board has elected Edmund Bartlett as its new Chairman at the Board’s Meeting held at the sidelines of the World Travel Market (WTM, London, United Kingdom, 3rd November 2015). Former Minister of Tourism of Jamaica (2007-2011), Bartlett is the Co-Founder of CTICo. Besides his career in tourism, for which he was named Man of the Year in 2009 by the Jamaica Observer, Bartlett has championed the cause of education and capacity building throughout his career. He is the founder of the Jamaican Foundation for Children, which he continues to support. As a Minister of Tourism of Jamaica, he served as a member of the UNWTO Executive Council, representing the Americas as well as ViceChairman of the UNWTO Regional Commission for the

Edmund Bartlett Chairman UNWTO

Americas and Chairman of CARICOM’s Sub-Committee in the areas of Tourism and Transportation/Civil Aviation. He has also served as Vice President for the World Conference on Cultural Policies and as a Vice-Chairman of the UN International Youth Year Advisory Committee during International Youth Year.

All India Institute of Ayurveda to be opened shortly

ll India Institute of Ayurveda is going to be set up shortly. The institute is at advanced stage of completion. The construction of the building is almost complete. OPD is working with 9 Ayurveda specialties. Basic medical equipments, machinery and all allied services have been procured. Government had approved an amount of Rs. 134 crore for the project but later on it was revised to Rs. 157 crore in March, 2013. According to Minister of State (I/C) for AYUSH, Shripad Yesso Naik, the progress of the project is being

6 December 2015

First Global Conference on Wine Tourism

reviewed from time to time with the concerned agencies in the Project Management Committee Meeting. The slow progress is due to delay in obtaining statutory clearances from local bodies.

he 1st UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism is scheduled to be organised in Kakheti wine region Georgia from 7-9 September 2016. As explained by UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, who led the presentation with the Head of Georgian National Tourism Administration, George Chogovadze and the Georgian Ambassador to Spain, Zurab Pololikashvili, “Wine tourism represents a growing segment with immense opportunities to diversify demand. In the case of Georgia, this potential is wellknown and we are very pleased to be holding the first UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism in the country.” “Georgia’s unique wine-making traditions date back 8,000 years and are part of UNESCO’s

intangible heritage, creating the ideal base to host the Wine Tourism Conference.” said Dimitry Kumsishvili, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. Gastronomy and wine have become key components for experiencing the culture and lifestyle of any destination and a growing travel motivation. To foster the development of this segment UNWTO has launched in September 2015, the UNWTO Gastronomy Network.

Sikkim to build reptile park & yak golf course

he Chief Minister of Sikkim Pawan Chamling met the Minister for State (I/C) Tourism and Culture Dr. Mahesh Sharma regarding a few proposals of new tourism projects in Sikkim. Chamling appraises Dr. Sharma of the on-going tourism projects in the Sikkim and sought his co-operation in establishing a ‘Reptile Park’ in Sikkim as four to five types of Reptiles are frequently found in Sikkim and such a unique Park will attract tourists. Chamling also proposed for a ‘Yak Golf Course’ near Nathula Pass in Sikkim which may be the highest Golf Course in the World. Dr. Mahesh Sharma assured the visiting Chief Minister of all sorts of cooperation of Ministry of Tourism in the promotion of

tourism in Sikkim and told him that the 10 percent of the Plan Allocation of the Union Ministry of Tourism is earmarked for North Eastern States. He informed the visiting Chief Minister that under Swadesh Darshan Scheme, ‘North-

East India Circuit’ is one of the Twelve Thematic Circuits identified initially. The proposals of Sikkim government will be considered under Swadesh Darshan Scheme. Besides these, the Union Government has also taken many initiates to promote tourism in the North –East region.

NEWS IN BRIEF

PATA signs strategic partnership agreement with Talent Basket

Mizoram to be developed as bamboo state

he Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce a new strategic partnership agreement with San Francisco based cross-border emerging media consulting and artist management company Talent Basket LLC. As part of the agreement, Talent Basket will work with PATA to develop a ROI (return on investment) driven strategy and programme to increase engagement with members and improve marketing and social media presence.

PATA CEO Mario Hardy said, “Their work helping travel destination offices and travel service companies capitalise on new opportunities by developing integrated digital strategy,

nion Minister of State (I/C) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Dr Jitendra Singh said, the government is committed to develop Mizoram as the ‘Bamboo State of India’. According to him the State of Mizoram is blessed with very high production of bamboo, which can be turned into a major source, not only for furniture but also for paper supply to the rest of the country. This could, not only generate

Mario Hardy CEO PATA

channel partnerships and APAC & Chinese marketing programs will be of immense value for our organisation and members.”

Indian Railways improves travel facilities to foreign tourists

ith a view to facilitate travel of foreign tourists the Indian Railway has enhanced the standard of facilities for smooth and hassle free travel in India. The facilities are announced are mentioned below. Advance Reservation Period of 360 days has been provided for foreign tourists. Foreign Tourist Quota is earmarked in identified trains based on demand pattern. During the financial year 201415, approximately 7.06 lakh berths/seats were earmarked under this quota to facilitate these passengers. The quota so earmarked is reviewed on periodical basis based on utilisation and adjustments are made wherever required. Separate facilitation centers are operating at several tourist destinations to provide facilities to foreign tourists.

revenue for the State, but also create opportunities for youth outside India. In this regard, he said, he had already initiated an effort to reinforce Bamboo Development Board of India.

Incredible Air India Holiday Packages to cover varied places of interest

shwani Lohani, CMD, Air India and senior officials of State Tourism Departments met in New Delhi to work out the modalities of the Incredible Air India Holiday Packages to be launched from December 1, 2015. Among the states represented were Maharashtra, Karnataka, Sikkim, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Jammu & Kashmir. Tourists will have the option of choosing from 3-4 packages in each state. The packages will cover a wide range of interests like wildlife reserves, religious places, adventure sports like skiing in Gulmarg and Srinagar, paragliding in Kangra, forts, museums, festivities & fairs like Pushkar in Rajasthan, etc. The two nights/three day packages will be attractively priced and will be available for direct purchase from the Air India website. The CMD of Air India also shared that the airline would be increasing intra-state connectivity with ATR-72 aircraft, operated by subsidiary Alliance Air. The ATR-72 operations provide the tourists a convenient means of transport within states, for short sectors. Alliance Air is currently operating ATR-72 flights under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) basis, in the North-Eastern states, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep Islands, Karnataka and Puducherry.

December 2015 7

ASSOCIATION

New appointments at WTTC-II WH Desk

he World Travel & Tourism Council-India Initiatives (WTTC-II) has appointed new Chairman and Vice Chairman for WTTC-II. Kapil Chopra, President of The Oberoi Group has taken over as the new Chairman while Ashwani Lohani, Chairman & Managing Director of Air India will be the new Vice Chairman, WTTC-II. The announcement was made during the Annual General Meeting of the association held in Delhi recently. “Maintaining the momentum of the WTTC-II Report, Tourism Action Plan 2014, presented to the Government, we have recently requested urgent interventions at the Prime Minister level,” said Kapil Chopra while addressing the

gathering. According to him, one of the most important interventions needed at this moment is the revival, recasting and re-launching the Incredible India Campaign 2.0. The E-Tourist Visa on Arrival (ETVoA) scheme, currently extended to 113 countries, must be communicated effectively to consumers through the ‘Incredible India 2.0’ campaign as awareness continues to be low.” “One of the primary needs of tourism is easy access to a destination, and Civil Aviation and Tourism must be linked to address this objective. Delineating or isolating both these functions will not see the desired growth. Tourism and aviation must be integral to make India an accessible and

Kapil Chopra Chairman WTTC-II

affordable destination,” said Ashwani Lohani. Since its launch in 2000, The World Travel & Tourism Council, India Initiative (WTTCII) with the active support of industry leaders, had identified priorities

Ashwani Lohani Vice Chairman WTTC-II

in a Manifesto. The Status Paper - India, The Tourism Imperative authored by WTTCII in August 2001 was presented to all the stakeholder of the industry and many issues raised were taken cognizance of.

WAI launches India Chapter The India chapter of the Women in Aviation International (WAI) was jointly inaugurated by H.E. Richard R. Verma, the U.S. Am bassador to India and Secretary Rajiv Nayan Choubey, Ministry of Civil Aviation in the presence of its 15 founding members. WH Desk

he India chapter pioneered by Radha Bhatia, Chairperson, Bird Group and mentored by C J Collins, Senior RepresentativeSouth Asia, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will connect, educate and empower women across all verticals in the Indian aviation and aerospace industries. “I believe that the Indian aviation sector offers immense opportunities for women to touch heights in their careers when provided with adequate guidance and support. With a firm belief to engage, educate

8 December 2015

and empower women through various initiatives to augment inclusive growth, I together with CJ Collins initiated the formation of India chapter of the Women in Aviation, International,” shared Radha Bhatia, Chairperson, Bird Group. “The India chapter will provide women aspiring for a career in aviation to connect, engage and draw inspiration across all verticals such as commercial, operations, engineering, financial and human resource to achieve their dreams,” she added.

as manufacturing, leasin g, law, engineering, MRO. ”

CJ Collins, Senior Representative to South Asia, Federal Aviation Administration shared, “With the launch of WAI India chapter, we aim to educate, train and recognise women in aviation industry while empowering them with necessary skills and avenue of growth. Our goal will be to highlight career avenues in verticals which is largely dominated by men force such

The members represent a diverse mix of professions related to aviation namely Neelam Pratap Rudy, Dr. Shefali Juneja, Director, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Neelam Mathews, Senior Correspondent Aviation and Defence, Travel and Tourism, and Engineering News Record, Dr. Ranjana Kaul, Partner at Dua Associates, Chitra Sarkar, Retired Executive Director Air India, Kiranjeet

The members of Women in Aviation International at the launch

Jain, Vice President- Marketing, GMR, Captain Preeti Singh, Pilot with SpiceJet and Shweta Singh, Deputy Chief Flight Operations Inspector, DGCA. WAI was founded in 1990 as a non-profit organisation to encourage the advancement of women in all aviation careers, and has more than 12,000 active members worldwide, with chapters located in eleven countries. This is the first WAI chapter in the South Asian region.

ASSOCIATION

‘Nothing Official about It’ What is your favourite holiday

Delhi is famous for its old

together along with all the staff

destination? And why it is so?

world charm and the amazing

at the office. Other than that

variety of food and being a

evenings are usually for family

foodie myself I suggest anyone

time and outings. I make sure

who has 24 hours in Delhi,

that we go for a long vacation

the best is to explore Old Delhi

with everyone at-least twice a

area and try the delicacies

year to a place where we can

hidden in the bylanes of the

spend time with each other and

famous Chandni Chowk,

not just visiting attractions and

Dhaba food at Connaught

shopping.

My all-time favorite destination still remains Thailand even though I have been their numerous times. The main reason is the levels of Thai hospitality that you experience is unmatched anywhere in the world and the beautiful beaches, the amazing

What is the activity you do in

variety of sea food and the

Where in Delhi do you take

your spare time?

famous Thai street food make

your guest for local food?

I am very fond of cooking and since food has been our family business so all men in our entire family are exceptional cooks as well. So most of my spare time goes into trying out new recipes both Indian and international and entertaining friends and cousins at our

it worth the experience.

I normally take them to Chor

What do you do during your

Bizzare at Hotel Broadway,

free time?

Ansari road which offers

As you know I am a Singer and a Composer myself with my own Music Album in 2006, so most of my free time goes into music…either singing or

Pankaj Nagpal Managing Director Travestarz

Place is a must try too…

the old world charm with its ambience and amazingly good food which is mildly spicy to suit the taste buds of our guests.

creating music…nowadays

How do you manage your time

however most of my time goes

between family and business?

with my son who is a upcoming cricketer and has just been selected for the Delhi State Team and being a former cricketer myself I spend a lot of time on the field with him.

Well we have several business interest and me, my father and my wife are all involved in the business. However we have a common office for all our businesses and get to spend

What would you recommend to

time with each other even in

travellers who have 24 hours

office. Lunch time is usually

in Delhi and NCR?

bonding time when all of us eat

house. How is travstarz is doing at the moment? By grace of God Travstarz has been steadily rising and is one of the top reputed companies in India today in the B2B space. We have soft launched our Online Portal www. travelrezonline.com already and are gearing up now for its big launch.

IGTA interacts with Bulgarian Golf Course owners WH Desk

In an attempt to increase the golf tourism exchange between India and Bulgaria the India Golf Tourism Association (IGTA) interacted with the Bulgarian golf course owners and tour operators recently in New Delhi.

ccording to IGTA President, Rajan Sehgal, “More than 15 golf tour operators from India had an opportunity to interact with the Bulgarian golf course owners and tour operators. During the interaction a host of ideas were exchanged to promote golf tourism between these two countries. “The well known Indian golfer Shiv Kapoor has been appointed as the brand ambassador for Golf Tourism in Bulgaria. This will have a

win-win impact on both of the countries in terms of growth of golf tourism.

Rajan Sehgal President IGTA

Pointed out at the strategies to promote a destination Sehgal said that workshops and training programmes plays a vital role in attracting a large chunk of travellers. Bulgarian golfers are keen to play golf in India but what we need at the moment is creating awareness and more packages to promote this segment.

December 2015 9

TRAVEL BUSINESS

VFS Global opens largest visa application centre in Asia at New Delhi Located in the capital’s prime commercial hub, Connought Place at the Shivaji Stadium metro station, spread across 67,000 sq. ft. the centre is VFS Global’s largest Visa Application Centre in Asia. Out of 35 countries under VFS Global for visa application service, 31 will be served at this centre. WH Desk

Constructed according to International Building Code

ÂÂSingle collection area for all passports ÂÂOne-stop-shop for visarelated value added services such as printing, copying, photographs, Internet kiosks, etc.

standards, the building housing the centre has comprehensive safety features, including inbuilt earthquake resistance (up to 7.5 Richter Scale), a fire refuge corridor running along the building, and multiple fire exits. The Centre represents VFS Global’s commitment to the development of the Indian travel and tourism industry, and a commitment to excellence in the service industry. VFS Global today handles the visa

application service for 35 foreign governments in India, with a total of 328 visa application centres across 19 cities. A pioneer of the outsourced visa services industry, VFS Global was conceptualised and launched in India in 2001 before it expanded its operations globally. The company started offering India visa services in 2008, and today serves the Government of India in 9 countries.

Paytm to boost travel segment, appoints Abhishek Rajan Paytm is betting big on its recently launched travel segment. It has brought on board Myntra’s head of mobile and digital business, Abhishek Rajan to lead the vertical as Vice President

at businesses that will help us to be profitable, and there is a lot of incumbency in the online travel segment in India. Abhishek, with his experience, is the right person to lead our efforts.”

WH Desk

Speaking on the growth opportunities in travel segment Abhishek Rajan said, “The travel segment holds a lot of promise as far as Paytm is concerned. I will be looking at leveraging the company’s existing strengths across digital and mobile platforms to establish it as the most prominent player in the online travel space.”

he company unveiled its travel business in December last year. Pegged to be the fastest $10 billion category for the company, Abhishek would be driving growth for this category. It will be looking to optimise the mobile platform to establish leadership in the category on the back of this new appointment. On his appointment, Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder & CEO, Paytm said, “We look

10 December 2015

ÂÂMultiple biometric booths with plug-and-play capability for faster turnaround times ÂÂPremium Lounges for personalised service and play area for children

Dr Mahesh Sharma, MoS for Tourism & Culture (I/C) and Civil Aviation Govt of India (centre) inaugurating the VFS Visa Application Centre

ith a total of 153 counters, the centre is equipped to process in excess of 12,000 visa applications per day. Ensuring smooth movement, service, and monitoring of applications within a contiguous space, the centre sets a new standard for visa application centres globally in service innovation, design and security.

Key Services

Abhishek, an IIM-Ahmedabad alumnus will be based out of Bengaluru and will primarily focus on scaling this category.

This is his second stint at Paytm where he had earlier played a critical role in setting up the digital payments and e-commerce business. Paytm is India’s largest mobile commerce platform. With its mobile first strategy, Paytm does more than 100 million transactions of various digital and physical goods every month. Launched in 2014, Paytm wallet is India’s dominant mobile payment service platform. Consumer brand of India’s leading mobile internet company One97 Communications, Paytm is head-quartered in Delhi NCR. The company’s investors include Ant Financials (AliPay), SAIF Partners, Sapphire Venture and Silicon Valley Bank.

ÂÂExtended operating hours during peak season Key Features ÂÂRegistration area with 22 counters and seating for over 200 people ÂÂSpecial provisions for differently-abled applicants, including ramps, washrooms and lifts ÂÂRegular CISF patrolling, and multi-layered security checks ÂÂWell-connected by public and private modes of transport with ample parking

HOSPITALITY

Preferred Hotels & Resorts joins forces with Love146

referred Hotels & Resorts announced a partnership with Love146, an international human rights organisation whose mission is to end child trafficking and exploitation. Confronting the reality that, according to the International Labor Organization, there are more than 20 million enslaved victims, including millions of children, Preferred Hotels & Resorts has expanded its corporate social responsibility program, GIFTTS – Great Initiatives for Today’s (Tomorrow’s) Society by committing to help Love146 abolish child trafficking through a combination of financial and educational resources.

MoT

Implementing Sustainable Tourism Criteria for India WH Desk

he Ministry of Tourism has launched a Comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Criteria for India (STCI) for three major segments of tourism, namely accommodation, tour operators and Beaches, Backwaters, Lakes and Rivers sectors during the sensitisation Workshop for Stakeholders on Sustainable Tourism organised in August, 2014. The criterion has been adopted by the stakeholders. Further, the Ministry has guidelines for approval of Hotel Projects at the implementation stage and also guidelines for classification/re-classification of operational hotels under various categories. As per these guidelines, hotels at the project stage itself are required to incorporate various ecofriendly measures like Sewage

Treatment Plant (STP), Rain Water Harvesting System, waste management system, pollution control, introduction of nonChloro Fluoro Carbon (CFC) equipment for refrigeration and air conditioning, measures for energy and water conservation etc. Under the guidelines for project level & classification/ re-classification of operational hotels it has been prescribed that the architecture of the hotel buildings in hilly and ecologically fragile areas should be sustainable and energy efficient and as far as possible be in conformity with the local ethos and make use of local designs and material. The tour operators approved by Ministry of Tourism have to sign a pledge for commitment towards Safe & Honourable Tourism and Sustainable

Tourism to fully implement Sustainable Tourism practices, consistent with the best environment and heritage protection standards, such that the present tourism resource requirements optimize both local community benefit and future sustainable uses. The Ministry of Tourism holds a constant dialogue with State Governments/U.T.

Administrations, various tourism related institutions and stakeholders for drawing up strategies for development and promotion of tourism in the country including Sustainable Tourism. The Ministry of Tourism supports from time to time various seminars and events that deliberate or focus on tourism in the country including Sustainable Tourism in rural areas.

ITDC gives dividend to MoT The decision for the payment of Dividend was taken during ITDC 50th Annual General Meeting held at the Group’s flagship hotel, The Ashok, New Delhi. WH Desk

hairman & Managing Director of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) Umang Narula, on behalf of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) and Kumarakruppa frontier Hotels Pvt. Ltd., handed over two cheques amounting to Rs 18.88 crore to Union Tourism Minister Mahesh Sharma, towards dividend payment to the Government of India for the year 2014-15. Present on the occasion were Secretary – Ministry of Tourism – Shri Vinod Zutshi, Joint Secretary,

Shri Suman Billa, Ministry of Tourism, V.P. (Finance), Shri P K Aggarwal, ITDC alongwith other Sr. officials of MOT & ITDC. The ceremony took place at Minister’s office at Transport Bhawan, New Delhi.

It may be noted that ITDC, a PSU under the administrative control of the Ministry of Tourism has declared a dividend of 20% amounting to Rs.17.15 crore for 2014-15, the highest ever in terms of amount and the highest since 2007-08 in terms of percentage and Kumarakruppa Frontier Hotels Pvt. Ltd., another PSU under the Ministry of Tourism has declared a dividend of 450% amounting to Rs.4.39 crore for 2014-15. For the financial year 201415, ITDC posted a robust performance registering the Net profit of Rs.38.95 crore on a turnover of Rs.504.19 crore,

the highest since 2007-08. Of the overall performance, the Hotel Segment i.e. the Core area of ITDC achieved an impressive turnover of Rs.283.90 crore with a profit of Rs.10.81 crore. Besides Hotels, the other segments dealt by ITDC are Tours & Travels, Events Division, Institute of Hospitality & Tourism Management, Consultancy & Engineering Services, and International Trade Division all under the brand of Ashok.

During 2014-15, the Events Division of ITDC hosted “IndiaUS CEO Forum” [ chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India & His Excellency The President of USA];”India-US Business Summit” [ chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India & His Excellency the President of USA]; besides many other prestigious events organized by the Government of India.

December 2015 11

MoT

MoT extends Central Financial Assistance to promote adventure tourism The Ministry of Tourism extends Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for the development Adventure Tourism projects. WH Desk

he National Tourism Policy 2002’ and the ‘Report of the Working Group on Tourism’ for the 12th Five Year Plan lay thrust on development and promotion of the adventure tourism segment. The steps taken by the Ministry of Tourism to promote this segment, inter alia, include issuance of guidelines for approval of

adventure tour operators, formulation of basic minimum standards for adventure tourism activities, etc. “The ministry has extended financial support for capacity building/training programmes in the adventure tourism sector. In addition, the guidelines for basic minimum standards for adventure tourism related activities has identified the following categories of adventure tourism viz. land, water and air based activities which include mountaineering, trekking, river running, hang gliding, paragliding and bungee jumping,” informed Dr Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State for

Culture & Tourism (I/C) Govt of India. Safety-precautionary measures to prevent any untoward incidents are under the purview of concerned State Governments/Union Territory Administrations. The Ministry of Tourism had launched a campaign ‘777 days of Incredible Indian Himalayas’ on 27th September 2013 to promote the tourism potential of the Indian Himalayas. The campaign, inter alia, aimed at promoting Indian Himalayas as an incredible tourism product and to make it as round the year destination. This campaign

ICIS & NBCC inks deal for construction Tirupati & Noida centres The construction of Indian Culinary Institutes (ICIs) at Tirupati and Noida is all set to begin, with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Culinary Institute (ICI) Society and the National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd. (NBCC). WH Desk

he main objective of setting up of ICI is to institutionalise a mechanism to support efforts intended to preserve, document, promote and disseminate the Indian Cuisine, meet the sectoral requirement of specialists specific to Indian Cuisine, as also of teachers, and promote Cuisine as a Niche Tourism product. The ICIs are proposed as Institutes of Excellence that will offer structured regular programmes of study specific to culinary arts leading to graduate and post graduate level

12 December 2015

Dr Mahesh Sharma MoS for Culture & Tourism (I/C) Govt of India

was conceived after holding a detailed discussion with the representatives of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI).

ITDC takes clean India Drive at Qutub Minar

I The MoU was signed by Dr. Preeti Srivastava, Joint Secretary & Ex-officio Director, ICI and Rajendra Chaudhari, Director (Commercial) NBCC Ltd. in presence of Vinod Zutshi and Suman Billa.

degrees, promote research and innovation, organize demand driven certificate and diploma courses, document and create data base specific to Indian cuisine and commission studies and survey on cuisine. The need for ICI is felt as the formal education specific to Indian cuisine, a culinary art, with pan-India sweep is conspicuous by its absence. There is no regular credible institutional source at apex level for supply of cuisine specialists to the sector. Also, at present there is no institutional mechanism to document and disseminate information related to cuisine.

In India at present, there is dearth of ideal training ground to groom chefs of international standards. To fill this void, the ICIs would provide the appropriate training ground at par with the culinary schools functioning in different parts of the developed world. The edifice to be created would be exclusive and one of its kind at selecting and training the best talent through intensive programmes of one to three years duration. This effort will facilitate building a super-speciality food production work-force to assure positions of Chefs and beyond in the hospitality industry.

n line with Prime Minister’s Clean India Initiative Ashok Institute of Hospitality & Tourism Management (AIH&TM), a premier hospitality training institute under the HRD division of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), today organized a cleanliness awareness campaign at Qutab Minar for domestic as well as foreign tourists. As a part of the awareness campaign, the students from AIH&TM enacted a Street play on the campaign’s theme ‘Clean India.’ Present on the occasion were Sh. Anup K Chatterji (GM-HRD and Principal AIH&TM), Mrs. Divya Singh (Sr.Manager-HRD), Sh. Pradeep Khanna (AM-HRD), Mrs.Bharati Bajaj (AM-HRD), Sh. Rohit Sharma (AM-HRD), Sh. Saurabh Siddhu (Chef-HRD), Ms. Sapna Kaintura (AM-HRD), and others. The officials of ITDC also took a pledge along with the students of Ashok Institute of Hospitality & Tourism Management and the tourists present at the monument to keep Qutab Minar premise clean and hygienic.

STATE

Kerala Tourism announces Partnership Meets 2015-16 The second phase of Partnership Meet will be hosted in the selected city’s strategically located venue - preferably a premium banquet space. Last date for registration is December 20, 2015. WH Desk

o help both sides leverage this opportunity, Kerala Tourism has planned a series of Tourism Partnership Meets that will enable networking between the Kerala travel and hospitality trade and local travel agents and tour operators in select Indian cities that present the greatest potential for inbound Kerala tourist traffic. Hoteliers, tour operators, houseboat operators, home stays and Ayurveda centres would be adequately represented. The format will be that of a day-long B2B event with a focus on the promotion of Kerala Tourism through public-private partnership. It will enable buyers from target cities to

understand what the state has to offer and thus help their customers explore it to the fullest extent.

table allotment:9:00 am Cultural show: 1.00 pm Lunch break: 1.30 pm to 2.30 pm

To participate, trade participants from Kerala would have to first register and remit the required fee. Each participant will be allotted a marketing space to interact with the local guests. Kerala Tourism will ensure, through invitations, the presence of the source market’s buyers - viz, tour operators and travel agents. The event will be done in morning sessions in certain cities and in others it will be done in evening sessions.

Highlights of the meets

Program flow and timings Evening session Business session for buyers: 3:30 pm to 8:30 pm Kerala trade registration and table allotment: 3:00 pm Cultural show: 8.00 pm Dinner :8:30 pm Morning session Business session for buyers: 9:30 am to 5.30 pm Kerala trade registration and

Effective one-to-one interactions Comprehensive business hours Scratch and win prizes for buyers Theme based venue branding Lunch/Dinner and hi-tea for the trade

Scratch n’ win activity The Scratch ‘N’ Win Activity at partnership meets will provide an opportunity for trade partners from respective host cities to win valuable gifts from Kerala Tourism. Buyers attending the business session will have to visit the seller’s table to avail Scratch ‘N’ Win coupons; effectively greater the number of seller tables visited, greater the probability of winning prizes. The Scratch ‘N’ Win prizes could include gold coins and other valuable gifts.

SCHEDULE FOR PARTNERSHIP MEET 2015-16 - PHASE II

Sl. No.

City

Date 6 Jan 2016

Day

Session

Wednesday

Evening

Coimbatore

Visakhapatnam 12 Jan 2016

Tuesday

Evening

Bangalore

15th Jan 2016

Friday

Evening

Guwahati

19th Jan 2016

Tuesday

Evening

Kolkata

21st Jan 2016

Thursday

Morning

Patna

25 Jan 2016

Monday

Evening

Delhi

28 Jan 2016

Thursday

Morning

Mumbai

17 Feb 2016

Wednesday

Morning

Pune

23 Feb 2016

Tuesday

Evening

th th th

Punjab celebrates Heritage Week WH Desk

unjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board supported DRONAH Foundation in association with UNESCO - New Delhi, INTACH -Punjab Chapter, ASI Chandigarh Circle, Department of Architecture – Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar and Chitkara University in organising Heritage Week in Punjab, Amritsar, Patiala and Chandigarh from 19th to 24th of November. The first leg of the Heritage Week was successfully kicked off in Amritsar on the 19th of November. The activities

14 December 2015

included a Heritage Walk, painting competition for school children and a panel discussion on ‘The State of Tourism and Heritage in Amritsar’ hosted by Department of Architecture, Guru Nanak Dev University. The heritage walk led by Punjab Tourism State guides took students from colleges around the built structures of the city while school children participated in a painting competition on the theme culture and Heritage and Punjab. The first day of the Heritage Week was successful in raising some important issues related to heritage and tourism. Next stop

for the celebrations are Patiala (21st and 22nd November) and Chandigarh (24th November). The events are aimed at increasing participation of the community

in issues related to heritage and culture in which Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board is taking positive strides.

IN CONVERSATION

In Conversation with Vasudha Sondhi

Every day is a new day and every challenge is new; you can never have a boring day syndrome

16 December 2015

Having learnt the travel and tourism business from the best of the industry, SITA World Travels, Taj Group of Hotels and Carlson Companies, a generous and hard working Vasudha Sondhi, MD, Outbound Marketing is well renowned women entrepreneur of the travel and hospitality industry. At the peak of her career, she plunged into becoming an entrepreneur which according to her was the appropriate time to start a venture. She established the company ‘Outbound Marketing’ in February 2002 in response to the growing demand for new market approaches and cost-effective distribution solutions. And today, under her dynamic leadership the Outbound Marketing has become a one stop outsourced solution for national tourism offices, hotel companies and tourism destinations, theme parks etc. Graduated in Public Administration from Osmania University Hyderabad followed by Hotel Management from IHM Mumbai, she absolutely loves the hospitality & tourism industry and never thought to be anywhere else. Whereabouts brings more about her, here are the excerpts of a conversation with Rajesh Tiwari…

IN CONVERSATION

What encouraged you to make your career in travel and tourism industry? I studied Hotel Management at the IHM Mumbai and I really liked the concept of service, and the ability to create happiness by good service. One of my early inspirational figures was Ms. Thangam Philip who achieved so much despite all odds. My travel industry experience was with SITA World Travels under Mr. Inder Sharma and I learnt from the best. I never wanted to change to another industry after that.

How has your Travel & Tourism journey been over the years? It has largely been very good, and as with everything in life, has not been without the usual challenges. Setting up ‘Outbound Marketing’ was a big gamble for me. At the peak of my career, I plunged into becoming an entrepreneur. But for me it was all about the timing. If I did not do it then, it would have never happened. Also it was about the opportunities and the unique skill set we provided.

What were the key turning points of your professional side? Great learning at Hyatt, and that was when I moved from F&B service to sales and marketing. The next turning point was when I joined SITA and learnt the

TOP3 Destination (India/ Overseas): Ramgarh in district Nainital/ Paris

At the peak of my career, I plunged into becoming an entrepreneur. But for me it was all about the timing. If I did not do it then, it would have never happened. Also it was about the opportunities and the unique skill set we provided. travel and tourism business, my role as Regional Director Sales and Marketing for a leading hotel group, and Outbound Marketing has been a tough chapter. Even the last 13 years of handling Outbound Marketing has been immensely rewarding. With every client, I would say there has been a turning point. The two different clients are never alike or have similar needs from the market except about the bottom line. But who delivers to that bottom line, what needs to kept in mind is all so different.

What are the best, and most challenging parts of your job?

I am meant to be associated with hotels and resorts in one way or the other. It gives me great satisfaction to handle and market such fabulous hotels/ resorts and give our clients great experiences. For me it’s just not about selling rooms, it’s always been about the experience. My challenges are more with skill enhancement of the team and keeping them motivated.

How do you see the growth of ‘Outbound Marketing’ in next couple of years? I definitely see Outbound Marketing being a leader in Hotels Representation. Clearly we put the sales back in the representation business.

What are the latest initiatives taken for Outbound Marketing? I follow very much the philosophy of ‘The Customer Comes Second’ (great book by Hal Rosenbluth read by me just as I started working) we try to do a lot of things as a team. They are fun, and yet meant to be training initiatives, such as Reading Club. In December we try to put together a month of working out together. We call it ‘Arriving In Better Shape’ (not just health, but also has a larger meaning including better delivery of sales service, better guests experiences, better at our jobs and lives).

tete-e-tete How would you describe yourself? Professional and hard working, generous and mostly a private person.

Where have you travelled last/recently with your family? I have travelled to Indonesia during previous year.

Do you have any favourite childhood travel memory to share with us? My favourite childhood memory is related to my grandfather’s farm in Chengleput and his house in Koonur near Ooty. He used to drive his ambassador at a speed (very slowly), we could almost walk faster than his driving speed.

How do you make a balance in your personal and professional life? During my initial years I had to sacrifice a lot to get the business up and to be able to deliver contractual obligations. Having a supportive family is a huge blessing, and I am very lucky to have an extended family of staff who has been with us forever and that’s made it easier for me. I took my children wherever I could, focused on work and home and now they are grown up, so it is much easier.

If not a travel and tourism professional; what would you be? I can’t think of any alternative. I absolutely love the travel and tourism industry.

Cuisines: Asian Airlines: Emirates, Etihad, SQ

December 2015 17

AVIATION

Ethiopian operates All Women Functioned Flight WH Desk

thiopian Airlines operated an All-Women Functioned Flight on November 19, 2015 on the Addis Ababa Bangkok route. This historic flight was aimed at crystallising Ethiopian corporate conviction of ‘Women Empowerment for a Sustainable Growth’, and it is the first of its kind in Ethiopian 70 years of service. This historical flight was operated by an All-Female crew led by female flight deck crew members and senior female executives onboard that flight. On ground flight preparations

were also conducted by females only such as cabin operations, airport operations, flight dispatcher, load controller, ramp operations, on-board logistics, aviation safety and security, ticket offices, catering, air traffic controllers as well as global call center.

of being an equal opportunity employer. We are very proud of their achievements and contributions and it is our sincere belief that this will continue with an enhanced magnitude and passion to sustain Ethiopian on its fast growth trajectory.

Speaking on this Tewolde GebreMariam, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, said, “It is a great honor for us to have competent Women Aviation Professionals at Ethiopian in every aspect of the aviation field, which portrays Ethiopian as gender responsive organization that strives to pursue its underlying stance

Above all, this is an ample opportunity to inspire young African female students to believe in their dreams and embark to fill the skill gap for Aviation professionals. Women are the continent’s greatest untapped resources, and hereby fully dedicated to ensure the increase number of women in decision making positions on

Fine on airlines for acting like a cartel WH Desk

he Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed penalties of ` 151.69 crores on Jet Airways, ` 63.74 crores on Indigo and ` 42.48 crores on SpiceJet for concerted action in fixing and revising Fuel Surcharge (FSC) for transporting cargo. In order to protect the interest of passenger and bring transparency on charges for the facilities offered by airlines, DGCA has issued the following Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs) & Air Transport Circulars on Passenger Facilitation: ÂÂCAR, Section -3, Series-M, Part-I on ‘Carriage by Air of Persons with Disability and/ or Persons with Reduced Mobility’.

18 December 2015

ÂÂCAR, Section -3, Series-M, Part-II on ‘Refund of Airline tickets to passengers of public transport undertakings’. ÂÂCAR, Section -3, Series-M, Part-IV on ‘Facilities to be provided to passengers by airlines due to denied boarding, cancellation of flights and delays in flights’. ÂÂCAR, Section -3, Series-M, Part-V on ‘Facilitation in case of diversion’. ÂÂAir Transport Circular ATC Circular ATC 03 of 2015 on Unbundle of services and fees by scheduled airlines. ÂÂAir Transport Circular 02 of 2010 Publishing of Tariff - Rule 35 of Aircraft Rules, 1937. The above regulations have been issued in consultation with the stakeholders, thereby ensuring the protection of their interests.

Tewolde GebreMariam Group Chief Executive Officer Ethiopian Airlines

top of key operational areas by consistently grooming and mentoring successor female employees for top managerial, technical and operational positions.

Lufthansa launches Book a Group Groups of more than ten passengers can be booked directly and instantly with the new online portal ‘Book a Group’. WH Desk

he booking of travel groups is now much easier with a new online tool for travel agents and tour operators. Using ‘Book a Group’, travel agents can directly and independently arrange all steps of their group bookings in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Japan for the first time. This new portal allows the registered IATA agency to find suitable flights, request availability and prices, book with instant confirmation, and what’s more, to change and manage existing bookings. The travel agent remains the contact person for the travel group’s customers who have booked with them, because the agent can independently manage all of the processes. The travel agency can also make enquiries in real time to check on flight connections with the Lufthansa flight number, to be able to offer interested customers what they

want without delay. The online features are intuitive and easy to use. In addition to all regular rates, special rates will also be available. The new portal will be up and running in all retail markets for over 12,000 travel agencies by the end of the year. A one-time registration is needed at www.lh-bookagroup. com. Until now travel agents have used an online form or sent an email to Lufthansa to enquire about offers for groups. Therefore, the offer could only be created after a time delay and usually included only one travel option and one rate. On the new portal, travel agents can independently manage each process up to departure and can immediately comply with all customer requirements with different options available on the portal. “Book a group”, which can be used in 14 languages, provides time-saving features like increasing or deceasing the number of passengers in a group and a practical upload of the passenger names directly from an Excel list.

AVIATION

Air India launches maiden flight to San Francisco Slated to be one of the longest flights in the world, Air India will currently operate three flights services a weekWednesday, Friday and Sunday, from Delhi, using Boeing 777 LR (long-range) aircraft. Air India operates daily non-stop flights to Chicago and New York (from New Delhi) and Newark (from Mumbai). WH Desk

he introductory flight will be connected to other metros like Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad etc. to reach out to travellers from these cities wanting a nonstop service to the West Coast of the United States of America. Starting from Bengaluru, the flight will travel non-stop from Delhi to San Francisco and passengers travelling to San Francisco will undergo customs and immigration formalities at Bengaluru airport for their onward journey. The flight AI 173 from Delhi with 230 passengers on board

AI targets Operating Profit

Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Minister for Civil Aviation, Govt of India, Ashwani Lohani, CMD, Air India and Seema Vohra of Sartha Marketing at the event

landed (December 2) at 5:40 AM with airport traffic control tower lit in the Indian tricolour to welcome the maiden Air India flight to the city. A number of officials from the US and India, including Indian Consul General Venkatesan Ashok, attended a formal ribbon cutting ceremony to mark beginning of the services. With this non-stop flight Air India became the first domestic airline to provide a direct air connection to the US west coast. India is a very significant growth market for San Francisco Travel. In 2014 the city witnessed 149,000 Indian travellers and

India ranks among the top 10 international markets, in terms of arrivals as well as of spending per visitor. While expressing happiness on Air India’s initiative Tom Kiely, Executive Vice President and Chief Tourism Officer, San Francisco Travel stated “We are delighted to partner with Air India on the introduction of this new airline route for our valued travelers including both business and leisure. This expansion of new route is key in strengthening our commitment to the growing and important Indian market.”

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India and Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of the Government of Republic of Korea giving effect to the following: ÂÂEnhancement in capacity entitlements from 6 services to 19 services per week for the designated carriers of India as well as Republic of Korea. ÂÂGrant of two additional points of call in India - Chennai and Bangalore for the designated carriers of Republic of Korea.

ÂÂGrant of two additional beyond points of call - Seattle and Vancouver for the designated carriers of India ÂÂGrant of additional intermediate points of call - Ho-chi-Minh city for the designated carriers of both sides. ÂÂBoth sides agreed to allow domestic code-share to any four points in their respective countries. Under agreed provision, designated carriers of both sides are eligible to make operations on India - Republic of Korea route subject to permission granted by respective Governments.

Air India has taken the following steps to improve the current seat occupancy in the First and Business Class: ÂÂOffering attractive fares in the First and Business Class. ÂÂe Super Saver Scheme for Business Class on. ÂÂUpgrade from Economy to Executive Class and Executive to First Class with the ‘Get Upfront Offer’ at the airport at nominal charge, to prevent last minute seat spoilage. ÂÂShort term cut and pay incentive scheme for travel agents in India for First and Business Class.

Tigerair connects Singapore-Lucknow

MoU on air services between India and Republic of Korea WH Desk

Air India is targeting an Operating Profit of Rs. 6.20 crores as per the Budget Estimates of Financial Year 2015-16. The airline is also targeting Passenger Revenue of Rs.17017 crores in the Budget Estimates for Financial Year 2015-16 as compared to the Passenger Revenue of Rs.15793.36 crores achieved in Financial Year 2014-15. This is an increase of 7.75 percent.

WH Desk The Tigerair has launched a direct flight from Singapore to Lucknow on December 3rd. The flight from Singapore TR 2676 will depart at 17:30 hrs and arrive in Lucknow at 20:00 hrs. The return leg TR 2677 will depart Lucknow at 21:00 hrs and arrive in Singapore at 04:35 hrs. The flight will commence on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. To celebrate the new route launch, the airline offers Lucknow passengers a special return fare of INR 10,999,

available for purchase from 4 13 December 2015, which can be used for travel from, 12 January to 14 April, 2016. “We have been steadily growing our presence and expanding services to India in the past eight years,” said Teh Yik Chuan, Sales and Marketing Director, Tigerair. “With our inaugural fare, we wish to provide the opportunity to travellers not only from Uttar Pradesh but also other neighbouring districts to visit Singapore, experience the warmth of our services and explore the Tigerair network further.”

December 2015 19

NEED TO KNOW

Dudhwa National Park THE DUDHWA NATIONAL PARK IN LAKHIMPUR KHERI DISTRICT IS LOCATED IN THE TERAIBHABHAR REGION BORDERING NEPAL, ABOUT 230 KM FROM LUCKNOW. WH Desk

he Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is a protected area in Uttar Pradesh that stretches mainly across the Lakhimpur Kheri and Bahraich districts and comprises the Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. It covers an area of 1,284.3 km (495.9 sq mi) and includes three large forest fragments amidst the matrix dominated by agriculture. It shares the north-eastern boundary with Nepal, which is defined to a large extent by the Mohana River. The area is a vast alluvial floodplain traversed by numerous rivers and streams

flowing in south-easterly direction.

watchers’ haven. A large number of rhinos are also found here.

Dudhwa attracts the visitors with its two core area as Dudhwa National Park and Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary which are separated by each other with an area of 15 km agricultural land. Unlike other celebrity parks of India like Jim Corbett National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park etc, the uncommercialised ambience of this park makes it an ideal habitat for the wild creatures to find nature’s serenity and comfortability in a more natural way.

BIRDS OF DUDHWA NATIONAL PARK

Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is one of the finest few remaining examples of the exceedingly diverse and productive Tarai eco-system. It is well known sanctuary of the swamp deer and is home to tigers, leopards, antelopes, elephants, jackal, hyena etc, amid thick green forest and grassland. It is also a bird

Dudhwa National Park, together with Kishanpur and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuaries, represent the best natural forests and grasslands left in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh. There are about 10000 bird species in the world. In which 1300 bird species are found in India. Uttar Pradesh has more than 550 species of them. Dudhwa’s birds in particular are a delight for any avid bird watcher where Bengal florican is most popular between bird watchers. The marshlands are habitat for about 400 species of resident and migratory birds including the swamp francolin, wild boar, python, gharial, otter, monitor lizard,turtles, blue bull, great slaty woodpecker, Bengal florican, plenty of painted stork, sarus crane, several species of owl, Asian barbet, woodpecker etc. Much of the park’s avian fauna is aquatic in nature and found around Dudhwa’s lakes such as Banke Tal. BUTTERFLIES OF DUDHWA NATIONAL PARK There are about 1500 species of butterflies in India. They vary greatly in colour, habits and size. The largest butterfly, the Southern bird wing has a wingspan of up to 19 cm, while the smallest the Grass Jewel has a wingspan of 1.5 cm. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve has

20 December 2015

St. Francis Xavier Church

approx. 43 species of them. In a protected area butterflies are equally important like other species. They form the preferred food of many species of birds, reptiles, spiders and predatory insects, hence are important components of food chain. REPTILES OF DUDHWA NATIONAL PARK Dudhwa Tiger Reserve has two types of crocodiles Marsh or Mugger and Ghanal. Both crocodilians show certain structural adaptations for a successful aquatic life. The nostril is placed at the tip of the snout enabling the animal to breathe when the rest of the body is submerged. Some of snake species are found in Dudhwa Tiger Reserve. ÂÂIndian Python (Python molurus)

NEED TO KNOW GETTING HERE AREA 550sq. km (including buffer zone) LOCATION The sanctuary is located in Behraich district of Uttar Pradesh, along the indoNepal border. LOCAL TRANSPORT Coach / Jeep / Boat ride is also available to the tourists. ACCESSIBILITY AIR Nearest airport is Amausi , Lucknow 215 km from here.

ÂÂIndian Rat Snake (Ptyas mucosa)

DEERS OF DUDHWA NATIONAL PARK

ÂÂCobra (Naja nab)

Apart from many mammals Dudhwa National Park has five species of deer. Deer are different from anti lope. The Swamp deer or Barasingha lives on marshland and is state animal of Uttar Pradesh. A stag stands 135 cm. at the shoulder and scales 170 to 180 kg. Average horns measure 75 cm. round the curve. The colour of coat, almost woolly in texture, shades from brown to yellowish brown. The coat of Barking Deer is bright chestnut. They are seen single or in pairs or in small family parties. They are fairly diurnal in habit. The call from distance sounds much like the bark of a dog. The name Hog-Deer has probably been suggested by the squat pig-like appearance of this animal and by its hog-like movements. When running it keeps its head low down. The

ÂÂRussel ‘s Viper (Daboia russelii) ÂÂHimalayan Pit Viper (Gloydiushimalayanus) ÂÂCommon Krait (Bun gurus caeruleus) ÂÂBanded Krait (Bungarus fasciatus) ÂÂFresh Water Snake (Enhydris enhydris) ÂÂCheckered Keelback (Xenochroph is piscator) ÂÂBlind Snake (Ramphotyphlops braminus) ÂÂRed Sand Boa (Dyxjohnii) ÂÂCommon Vine Snake (Ahaetulla nasuta) ÂÂCommon Kukri Snake (Oligodon arnensis) ÂÂRussell’s Kukri Snake (01i,rdon taeniolcaus) ÂÂCommon Cat Snake (Boiga trigoncaa)

Cheetal is perhaps the most beautiful of all deer. Its coat is a bright rufous-fawn profusely spotted with white at all ages and in all seasons. Old bucks are more brownish in colour and darker. The Sambar is the largest Indian deer and carries the grandest horns height at shoulder nearly 150 cm., a full grown stag scales from 225 to 320 kg. BEST TIME TO VISIT The best time to visit Dudhwa National Park is between November and May. The park remains open to public from 15th November to 15th June, though the months of May and June are a little too hot for comfort. While visiting the Park during winter you must remember to take woolen clothes as it can get pretty chilly, particularly between December to February.

RAIL The railway station in the sanctuary are at Kakraha , Murtiha, Nishangarah and Bichhia, They are located on the Gonda-Behraich Branch railway line ( meter gauge) of NER. Katerniaghat can be approached from Gonda also, which is situated on the main railway line from Lucknow to Gorakhpur. ROAD The sanctuary is located at a distance of 205 km from Lucknow, 60 km from Behraich – Nanpara route and about 7 km from the Nepal boarder. The best way to go Katerniaghat is by road from Lucknow. The first range of Katerniaghat WLS – Motipur is around 205 km from Lucknow via the cities of Sitapur and Lucknow. From Lakhimpur one has to take the Assam Road towards Beharaich till Mihinprwa, where a forest department barrier welcomes one to Katerniaghat. Contact Director General Directorate of Tourism, UP Rajarshi Purshottam Das Tandon Paryatan Bhavan, C-13, Vipin Khand, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Ph: 91-522-2307037 Fax: 91-522-2308937 E-mail: upstdc@up-tourism. com

December 2015 21

FEEDBACK

The 4th International Tourism Mart for the North East Region 2015 by Stuart and Margaret Miller

e were invited by the India Tourism, London, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India to attend the 4th International Tourism Mart for N.E. India organised in Gangtok Sikkim from 14th -16th October followed by ten days familiarisation trip to Arunachal Pradesh. We were glad of the opportunity to visit N. E. India and thank the authorities who gave us the opportunity. Regrettably, if the Fam. Trip was to sell Arunachal Pradesh to us in order that we could sell it to clients, it failed miserably. We always believe that clients will put up with a lot as long as they know the conditions in advance but, unfortunately, the conditions of roads and hotels are so bad in A.P. that we are confident it would be a step too far to ask clients to accept them.

We appreciate that a lot of people put in a lot of work to produce the Mart and the Fam. Trip but we feel that, however hard their efforts, they do not have the necessary experience of western tourists to do a good job. If you want to attract western tourists you must provide at least a 3* hotel of western standard in the towns being used for overnight stops. We respectfully suggest that one or two high ranking managers/ ministers travel the route we travelled staying at the hotels we stayed at (we do not suggest the ones we rejected) so that someone in authority knows exactly what we experienced which may help them to push for change. We have travelled all over India â&#x20AC;&#x201C; north, south, east and west but have never experienced roads as bad as those in Arunachal

Pradesh. It must be very difficult to keep mountain roads in good order but, in the case of A.P., it appears that very little effort is made. If the rubble from landslides can be used to fill the bigger potholes it would only cost the transport and labour. The Tourist Authority will have nothing to do with the roads but we urge you, if you want to attract visitors, to lobby your government to get the roads improved. Tourism has the potential to bring in a lot of money to the area but it will not happen as things are. We saw two military runways during our travels; one at Ziro and the other at Aalo. If you can persuade those in authority to allow domestic flights - one or two days a week - it would make a fantastic difference to the number of travellers. Sadly we have heard that other

foreign delegates did not have any better experience than we had; at least hotels were booked for us which was not the case with the other group that travelled in A.P. Nor did delegates on tours of other areas fair any better. We hope that our plain speaking does not cause offence â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is meant to be constructive criticism and is not aimed at any one person or department. Thank you again for inviting us. We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enjoy the roads or the hotels but we do like mountains and thoroughly enjoyed the scenery and the company.

This feedback was shared by Stuart and Margaret Miller, Partners, Complete India & Asia. They have shared a detailed report with us that highlight the handling of delegates which according to them was not up to the mark.

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22 December 2015

NTO

Visit Britain launches Bond is Great campaign in India In association with Sony Pictures Entertainment and Metro-GoldwynMayer Studios, VisitBritain kicked-off the global film tourism campaign ‘Bond is GREAT’ in more than 60 countries, encouraging Bond fans and travel enthusiasts to choose Britain the home of Bond for their next holiday. WH Desk

s SPECTRE provides a great international showcase for some of Britain’s iconic locations, Bond fans can experience the adventure and luxury flavour of Britain in the movie. As part of this year’s ‘Bond is GREAT’

campaign, 007 fans from India and around the world, will also stand a chance to win a ‘Bond Lifestyle’ weekend through an exclusive online competition – The Sweepstake. By sharing their dream of Bond lifestyle adventure in Britain, one lucky winner could get a chance to live the Bond lifestyle including a chauffeur driven Aston Martin, private visit to Madame Tussauds and a stay at one of the exclusive Radisson Blu Edwardian Hotels, immersing themselves into the world of Bond in Britain. “Recent films have demonstrated that they deliver a real increase in visitor numbers with just under half of our potential visitors to Britain wanting to visit places they have seen featured in films or

TV so we are doing everything we can to capitalise on this ‘set-jetting’ phenomenon, said Sally Balcombe, Chief Executive Officer, VisitBritain. “That’s why we are working hard to encourage and inspire more people to holiday in Britain through our ‘Bond is GREAT Britain’ campaign, leading to a measurable increase in international visitor numbers and visitor spend across the nations and regions of Britain,” she added.

As part of the ‘Bond is GREAT’ campaign in India, an exclusive four city SPECTRE premiers and networking dinner will be hosted by the British High Commission, UKTI, VisitBritain and British Councilacross New Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata and Chennai on Thursday, 19th November. The event will highlight why Britain is great for business, tourism and education whilst bringing to life the landscape, rich culture and heritage of the UK.

EVENT & PROMOTIONS

Hong Kong your Winter Wonderland

For 24-hours Google places ‘Join Queen Rania’

WH Desk

ith Jingle Bells rocking from every corner, lights aglow and Christmas Trees decorated with red and gold, Hong Kong is your Winter Wonderland. This is the perfect opportunity for people of all ages to explore and experience Hong Kong. Families who are travelling with young children can explore all the theme parks like Disney Land, Ocean Park and Noah’s Ark which will all come alive with Santa Claus Ho Ho Ho-ing and all that is Christmas. This is just an excuse for the adults to bring out the child in them that they thought have been tucked away quite safely. Join in the fun in 2015 and enjoy romantic winter moments with your loved ones in Hong Kong. Just when you think you have had the best time you could imagine, New Year’s Eve will sweep you off your feet. Every New Year’s Eve, hundreds and thousands of spectators gather at Victoria Harbour to celebrate the countdown with spectacular fireworks display.

24 December 2015

mman - Narrated by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, the Petra Street View video will be featured on the Google search homepage of different countries around the world for 24 hours at a time, alternating across continents over the next few weeks. Queen Rania and Google recently collaborated on an international campaign that aims to promote Jordan, Petra, and the country’s many rich wonders to the rest of the world. The campaign features a video tour, available globally on YouTube, of the rose-red city and is narrated by Queen Rania; that and Queen Rania and Petra will both featured on Google’s home page across the world for the coming 24+ hours. To launch this international campaign, Her Majesty wrote a blogpost for Google Blog in which she said, “People all over the world now have a window

into our magical Kingdom in the heart of the Middle East.” The Queen added, “This allows people to understand more about each other’s stories and cultures and histories and helps them realise that we are more alike than we are different,” she added. Since November 23rd, 360-degree street view imagery of Petra and 30 other landmarks in Jordan became available on Google Maps for the first time. This technology lets users explore places around the world like landmarks, natural wonders, as well as culturally and historically significant sites.

NTO

Bulgaria to open six more visa centres across India Republic of Bulgaria has formed the Ministry of Tourism for the first time. This step of Bulgarian government shows their eagerness to get more from tourism industry. The newly appointed Minister for Tourism, Nikolina Angelkova visited India to interact with the tourism professionals of the country and encouraged them to send more travellers from this part of the world. During her interaction with the media she unfolded a host of plans to be executed in near future; opening six more visa centres and launching a common tourism product (in association with neighboring countries) is among them. Here are the excerpts. Rajesh Tiwari

ue to its contribution to the economy of Bulgaria tourism sector plays an important role in the country. Last year, tourism contributed 13.1 percent share of the total GDP with 12.1 percent total employment through its

various segments. The country received more than 7.3 million international tourists in 2014 with a 6 percent increase over 2013 while the international tourism receipt increased by 1.9 percent over the same period.

the destination. “A layout has been prepared and the pilot project will be started soon. This will be an opportunity for Indian travellers to visit more destinations and stay longer in Bulgaria,” she added.

The government of Bulgaria has appointed the Minister for Tourism for the first time. A separate ministry has been formed to expedite the growth of tourism sector. The same will be responsible to create a favourable environment for the growth of tourism and its stakeholders.

The authorities of the country look at Bollywood to create awareness and promotion of the country as a tourist destination. Elaborating more on this the Minister said, “From next year we are expecting a huge chunk of business from this market. Movies like Dilwale shot in Bulgaria will help in promoting our destination and the interest of the travellers is likely go up. Indian film makers are showing their interest in Bulgaria and five more Indian movies are slated to be filmed in Bulgaria next year.”

India is among the leading markets for Bulgaria with 46th position, 8 445 visits and 60 percent increase in 2014. From January to September this year, Bulgaria welcomed about 7,000 Indian travellers. The country aims at 300, 000 travellers from India in next five years. to achieve this target the country is planning to open 6 additional visa centres in India. “We look forward to unveil visa centres in New Delhi, Mumbai, Amritsar, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Chennai by end of 2016; more cities will be added later on,” she added. In association with Turkey, Greece and Romenia, Bulgaria is preparing the common tourism products for traveller visiting

Nikolina Angelkova, informed that she interacted with the Minister of State (I/C) for Tourism and Culture Dr. Mahesh Sharma to discussed the issues of mutual cooperation for the promotion of tourism sector in both of the countries. According to her the Tourism Minister of India assured the delegation of the cooperation of his Ministry in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries and said

Nikolina Angelkova Minister for Tourism Republic of Bulgaria

that all possibilities would be explored for promoting tourism. Establishing a direct connectivity between these two destinations took centre stage during the discussion. India Tourism had conducted a seminar for travel agents in Sofia, Bulgaria in November 2014 which was attended by 69 Travel Agents. Lack of Direct Air Connectivity between India and Bulgaria is one of the major reasons for small number of tourists travelling between the two countries. Tour operators and Travel Agents of both the countries may interact with each other in order to promote two way tourism between India and Bulgaria.

Visit the Philippines Again 2016’ campaign Philippines has launched the Visit the Philippines Again 2016 campaign following the success of the Visit the Philippines Year 2015. WH Desk

he campaign is a retail based campaign to draw foreign travellers to visit the Philippines and return in 2016 for experiencing more of Philippines’ offerings. Returning

visitors will be given exclusive travel deals, special incentives and discounts on flights, hotel accommodations and tour packages on presenting proof of their previous visits.

lovers; the 2016 Ironman 70 and the Asia-Pacific Championship for the sports and outdoor enthusiasts; and the MTV Music Evolution 2016 for music and concert lovers.

VPA 2016 highlights various events that the tourists can participate during their stay in the country including the Asian Tourism Forum 2016 and the Routes Asia 2016 for travellers and business people; the Madrid Fusion Manila 2016 for food

The Indian market has continued to be one of the important contributors of international visitors to the Philippines. India has jumped up to the twelfth position for tourist arrivals in the Philippines till September this year, with over

22.40 percent more Indians choosing the country as their preferred travel destination. The month of February in 2015 showed the impressive growth of arrivals of almost 40 percent.

December 2015 25

NTO Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna shoots in Oman for a television show The Chef Vikas Khanna was visiting Oman for the television shoot of the food and travel show anchored by him called Twist of Taste –The Persian Trails where he shot four episodes in the destination.

WH Desk

he show which is in its 5th season is on air every Wednesday and Thursday at 9 pm only on Fox life India channel and the episodes on Oman will be on air from the last week of December. Talking about his experience in Oman, Chef Vikas Khanna said, “Oman has always been on my mind for this show. But from whatever I had seen of Oman before arriving here, I can say that no

Thailand lunches six-month multiple-entry visa

pictures can do justice to Oman. The destination is beautiful from all angles and the people of the country are wonderful. I had an absolutely wonderful time shooting in Oman.” Lubaina Sheerazi, India Representative, Ministry of Tourism - Oman spoke about the association with the show, “This is our maiden television association with any Indian channel. The reason we chose to associate with FOX life channel is because the audience of the channel matches our target group. People who view the channel are young and middle aged urban spenders with high disposable income who are ambitious and spend more on travelling, dining out and in pursuit of new hobbies, destinations and experiences. Oman as a destination is niche

and for the experiential traveler and through this association we hope to reach out to this segment of travellers.” The episodes shot in Oman showcases the opulence of the destination and its culinary delights. Supported by the Ministry of Tourism - Oman, the hospitality partners for the shoot were Al Bustan Palace – a Ritz Carlton Hotel, Alila Jabal Akhdar and Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa and travel partner was Zahara Tours.

Abu Dhabi interacts with Kolkata trade fraternity to create more packages & itineraries WH Desk

op-of-the-line travel professionals representing Kolkata and Eastern India Market were present and interacted with the TCA Abu Dhabi team for developing new itineraries and packages. “This trade initiative in Kolkata further reiterates our commitment to this market. We are here to present a diverse mix of Abu Dhabi attractions and expand our profile with the Indian travel trade, to stimulate further increase in Indian visitors to Abu Dhabi in 2016, said Bejan Dinshaw, Country Manager India, TCA Abu Dhabi. “Our activities with the travel trade emphasise our continued initiatives with all stakeholders on a pan-India level, especially in the key outbound gateway of Kolkata,” he added.

26 December 2015

Abu Dhabi is fast becoming the new hot-spot for the high-end Indian traveller and as the destination continues with its marketing and promotional activities the response from the Indian market has been extremely positive. “Abu Dhabi has experienced consistently high double-digit growth from the Indian market over last few years. As the market matures, we are now placing greater emphasis on its growth potential, tailoring products to suit the needs of experiential Indian traveller. We endeavour to consolidate the destination’s growing popularity amongst the leisure, luxury and lifestyle holiday segment,” he added. Abu Dhabi is continuing its surge as the preferred outbound destination for the up-market and aspirational Indian traveller. Abu Dhabi welcomed 200,015

Indian hotel guests in January to September 2015, at a growth rate of 23 percent over the same period last year. India is the No. 1 Overseas Source Market for Abu Dhabi. The authorities keen to showcase Abu Dhabi as the perfect choice for Family Holidays, Duty Free Shopping, Arts & Culture, Destination Weddings & Honeymoon, Golfing, Formula 1 Racing and MICE facilities. Abu Dhabi is closer than ever for the Indian market, with a huge choice of flights and customised packages. The Etihad-Jet Airways combine operates daily direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata, providing excellent connectivity in a short span of just over three hours.

hailand’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs (MFA) has launched a new sixmonth multiple-entry tourist visa (METV) on November 13, 2015. The visa, costing INR 10,000 (5,000 baht) will grant the traveller multiple entries during a 6-month period, for up to 60 days per entry. All foreign nationals are eligible to apply for METV. There has been speculation about the METV since August this year with travellers and travel trade in India excited about the prospective added convenience. Soraya Homchuen, Director, TAT Mumbai office says, “Thailand has gained popularity for weekend getaways, especially on long weekends, in addition to already being India’s favourite for family vacations and annual holidays. I am certain that the convenience of already having a visa in-hand will encourage more impromptu trips to Thailand.” Indian travellers must be able to show a proof of funds in excess of INR 400,000, 12-months’ validity on their passports and must display an intention to travel to Thailand at least twice during the six-month period in order to be eligible for the METV. One can only apply for an METV at a Royal Thai Consulate. It is not available on-arrival.

They being the accommodation specialist, we get the very best. - Travelguru.com | India

In case of a heart attack, who will you trust more? The general physician or the cardiologist? It’s only natural to depend more on the expertise of a specialist. The chances of the expert knowing more about the heart is pretty high.

15 036/quiksel.com

This fact holds true with wholesalers in the travel industry too. By offering every travel product under the sun, a wholesaler has to divide its resources across the board, leading to compromises. Thankfully, there are specialists in the travel trade too. roomsXML for instance. It does nothing else but accommodation. By focusing in just one area, we have no other option but to do things more efficiently – robust technology, de-duplicated inventory, dependable 24x7 global support and of course, competitive rates. roomsXML – the accommodation specialist.

Seven Must See Places in the Picturesque City of Philadelphia As America’s birthplace, Philadelphia is the nation’s only UNESCO World Heritage City. Where else can you walk from the sites where political luminaries debated standing up to a king to the home of the largest collection of Rodin sculptures outside of Paris before making your way through a giant-sized human heart. And nowdays the city has become the place where young artists collaborate to innovate everything from food to fashion, creating a renaissance environment. Complied by WH Desk

hiladelphia is the second largest city on the East Coast and ranks fifth in the USA, with a metropolitan population of 5.8 million. The city is conveniently located in the middle of the Northeast Corridor, 100 miles south of New York, 133 miles north of Washington, D.C., and 55 miles from Atlantic City. More than 63 million people approximately a quarter of the U.S. population live within a 5.5-hour drive from Philadelphia. ROCKY STEPS Visit the Rocky Steps outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art which is the site of the famous running of the stairs by Rocky Ballboa played by Sylvestor Stallone in the ‘Rocky’ movie series. Walk or run up to top step to enjoy the amazing view of Philadelphia as seen from this Philadelphia Art Museum entrance. EASTERN STATE PENITENTIARY HISTORIC SITE A trip to Eastern State includes

28 December 2015

an audio tour narrated by Steve Buscemi, hands-on experience that allows visitors to unlock an escape-proof cell door, history exhibits in addition to other activities. In the fall, Eastern State also offers one of the scariest haunted houses in the country, Terror Behind the Walls. Eastern’s massive, medieval frontage stands in stark contrast to it’s church-like interior. Opened in 1829 and known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world’s first true ‘penitentiary’, a prison designed to enthuse penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of convicts. FRANKLIN INSTITUTE Franklin Institute is a premier science center offering exhibit experiences and programs that inform and inspire. Interactive exhibits include Space Command, Sir Isaac’s Loft: Where Art Physics Collide, The Franklin Air Show. Two-stories high, the Giant Heart would be the accurate size for a 220-foot tall person someone as tall as the Statue of Liberty. No visit to

The Franklin Institute would be complete without visiting the icon that generations love with all their hearts. INDEPENDENCE NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK Independence National Historical Park (INHP) is located on the site of many of the seminal events that carried the nation through its founding as a global leader of democratic ideals. INHP welcomes more than 3.5 million visitors every year. Many of these visitors line up to see what is the park’s most visited and most famous attraction, the Liberty Bell.

WHEREABOUTS found elsewhere in the region. The Court and the Plaza at King of Prussia combine to make the largest mall on the East Coast. A veritable shopper’s paradise, the mall features eight department stores (including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s), more than 40 eateries (including Morton’s and The Cheesecake Factory) and nearly 400 specialty shops (including Burberry, Apple, Louis Vuitton and Sephora). GETTING HERE The Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, the New Hall Military Museum, Franklin Court, the Bishop White House and the Graff House are just some of the buildings that make up Independence National Historical Park all of which are free. Parks are safe, with activities part of the daily life of the people and families who come to relax, eat, play and stroll READING TERMINAL MARKET Satisfy your groups’ appetites with delicious food from more than 80 merchants at Reading Terminal Market, an authentic 115-year old farmers market in the heart of Center City. The historic Reading Terminal Market is home to 80 renowned merchants who offer the best of Philadelphia’s famous specialties. Made with the finest and freshest ingredients, visitors to the Terminal have access to an unparalleled variety of international and local cuisine, including Pennsylvania Dutch specialties; mozzarella cheese made on site at the Valley Shepherd Creamery; and winner of Travel Channel’s Adam Richman’s Best Sandwich in America, Tommy DiNic’s roast pork sandwich.

both public and private tours available, including trolley, walking, train and step-on. All tours include detailed information about the murals themselves, the artistic process and the history of the diverse communities that serve as the backdrop for this unique art form. KING OF PRUSSIA MALL King of Prussia Mall is the premier shopping destination of the East Coast, featuring seven world-class department stores and more than 400 shops, boutiques and restaurants. It boasts more retail space than anywhere else in America and features stores that cannot be

BY AIR Philadelphia International Airport is just seven miles from Center City. SEPTA’s R1 line directly links the airport to Philadelphia’s downtown for a fast, hassle-free connection. Philadelphia taxis charge a flat rate of $25 for travel between Center City and the airport. PHL is served by all major domestic carriers and is a major hub for US Airways. The New International Terminal features 13 new international gates, 56 U.S. immigration booths and more amenities to make your trip to Philadelphia as pleasant as possible. BY TRAIN Philadelphia is served by Amtrak, which operates rail

service along the Northeast Corridor stretching from Boston to Washington, and other major cities in the United States and Canada. Amtrak’s 30th Street Station is minutes from the Pennsylvania Convention Center and Center City hotels. BY CAR, the city is just two hours from New York City, 90 minutes from Baltimore, three hours from Washington D.C. and about an hour from Lancaster County, Atlantic City and the New Jersey shore via major highways. SHOPPING Philadelphia offers the best of both worlds, from chic and sophisticated to funky and fun. In neighborhood pockets all over the city, dozens of indie stores attest to the unique sensibilities of their owners. So grab your wallet and head to the spot that fits your style best! With a wonderful mix of urban shopping districts and some of the nation’s largest retail centers, you’ll need an extra bag to bring everything home. Go ahead, get that extra pair of shoes at the King of Prussia Mall or browse the high-end shops of Rittenhouse Row as clothing and shoe purchases are tax-free. ACCOMODATION

Alexander Inn 12th and Spruce Streets Philadelphia, PA 19107 The Windsor Suites Philadelphia 1700 Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, PA 19103 Sonesta Hotel Philadelphia 1800 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 More Information:

Ms Poonam Makhija Sartha Marketing Tel: +91 1 49210004 Email: poonam.makhija@ sarthaindia.com

MURAL TOURS Travel around the world’s largest outdoor art gallery by taking a Mural Arts Tours, a rare peek into the collection of over 3,600 murals, with a variety of

December 2015 29

HOSPITALITY NEW LAUNCH

Park Inn by Radisson enters in Amritsar WH Desk

ark Inn By Radisson Amritsar Airport, has opened its doors to welcome international and domestic travellers to experience its warm and friendly hospitality. This is the ninth property of the group in the state of Punjab and first in the city of Amritsar. The location is a delight for business travellers as the hotel is conveniently located on Airport Road and less than fifteen minutes’ drive from the city centre. The Golden Temple, Durgiana Mandir and Jallianwala Bagh are all within a 12 km radius. Another tourist attraction is the Wagah border, which is 33 km away. It is also the only hotel in

the city offering complimentary shuttle transfers to the city centre, railway station, airport and Golden Temple. “The hotel brings to Amritsar a bright, bold, fresh and energetic mid-market brand that provides great value. With this addition, Carlson Rezidor in India has 74 hotels in operation and 39 in the pipeline,” said Raj Rana, Chief Executive Officer, South Asia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. Rajan Gill, Owner of Park Inn By Radisson Amritsar Airport said, “We already have the Radisson Blu Amritsar in partnership with the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. We are very happy with our relationship with Carlson and are confident their management expertise will enable the hotel to outperform its competitors. I look forward to

a mutually rewarding long-term relationship with the group.” The property features 89 rooms, The Sky Lounge, RBG Restaurant, a swimming pool, fitness centre and 53 square meters of meeting space. The hotel has rooms under different categories such as Superior, Premium, Deluxe, Executive

NEW LAUNCH

Tux Hospitality launches Ganga Sadan by Hive WH Desk

suite and Premier suite. The Sky Lounge has been specially designed for the use of the guests staying in the Premier suites and is suitable for small personalized parties. A jacuzzi is also available at the Sky Lounge, for guests to pamper themselves.

DISCOUNT & OFFERS

Usher in the New Year at InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort

ux Hospitality expands its mid segment affordable luxury brand of Hotels from Hive Alwar, Hive Panipat to Ganga Sadan by Hive, Haridwar. Tux seeks to deliver the best of facilities and services at Haridwar with Ganga Sadan by Hive. Having taken factors such as connectivity and convenience into the account, the property is strategically placed not only amidst the best of surroundings but just 0.5 kms away from the railway station. The property Ganga Sadan offers 36 rooms and suites equipped with modern facilities and premium amenities with private bathing on Ghat located on the bank of the River Ganges. It offers multi-cuisine roof top restaurant with the view of Ganges which serves purevegetarian Indian, continental, chinese and south Indian delicacies.

30 December 2015

nterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort offers a variety of packages, perfect to bring in the New Year. Guests will be welcomed from eight o’clock to enjoy jazz music and cocktails by the picturesque Bay of Bengal, followed by a delectable dinner. Watch your dreams for 2016 take flight as the illuminated lanterns brighten up the sky. Dance your heart away to the foot-tapping beats of DJ and be a part of a celebration that will be bigger than any other. Located 30 km from the Chennai International Airport, the resort offers world-class accommodation and understated luxury experiences to its discerning guests. THE OFFER Stay for two nights and enjoy daily breakfast at The Melting Pot, a New Year eve lavish dinner, an elaborate New Year’s Day brunch and a few surprises with compliments. Rates start at INR 46,000. If you wish to extend your stay, indulge in a 3-night package that includes 20 percent off on spa treatments and food and beverage, a relaxing session of morning yoga and meditation and evening pranayama by the sea, and more! Rates start at INR 53,000. For more information, visit www.intercontinental.com/chennai

HOSPITALITY

Marriott International to acquire Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide WH Desk

arriott International, Inc and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc announced that the boards of directors of both companies have unanimously approved a definitive merger agreement under which the companies will create the world’s largest hotel company. The transaction combines Starwood’s lifestyle brands and international footprint with Marriott’s strong presence in the luxury and select-service

tiers, as well as the convention and resort segment, creating a comprehensive portfolio. The merged company will offer broader choice for guests, greater opportunities for associates and should unlock additional value for Marriott and Starwood shareholders. Combined, the companies operate or franchise more than 5,500 hotels with 1.1 million rooms worldwide. The combined company’s pro forma fee revenue for the 12 months ended September 30, 2015 totals over USD 2.7 billion.

The transaction is subject to Marriott International and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide shareholder approvals, completion of Starwood’s planned disposition of its timeshare business,

PROMOTION

Crystal Lagoons to build largest manmade lagoon in India Crystal Lagoons is expanding its global presence with its first project in India with the launch of a 6.5-hectare lagoon in the Indian state of Maharashtra. WH Desk

ebut project in Pune will be the centerpiece of a US$1.5 billion community development; company’s first foray into the country to combine unprecedented design for transportation with high impact crystalline lagoon technology. Under a phased development over a decade-long period, the lagoon is scheduled to be operational upon completion of phase one of the project, which has a scheduled launch date of Q2 2016. Located at the heart of the Dream City project, which is currently under phase one of development by leading Indian real estate company, D. S. Kulkarni Developers, the mixed-

32 December 2015

regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. Assuming receipt of the necessary approvals, the parties expect the transaction to close in mid-2016.

Golden Tulip launches Privilege Club Member Card

use community will feature a sparkling crystalline lagoon used for recreational activities and, due to the layout of the lagoon, a means of transport throughout the development via water taxis. “Entry into the Maharashtra state, home to 114 million people, marks Crystal Lagoons 12th MENASA project and takes the global tally to over 300,” said Carlos Salas, Middle East Regional Director, Crystal Lagoons. “This landmark signing underscores Crystal Lagoons global expansion and further highlights our expertise in creating manmade lagoons through the application of our revolutionary technology,” said Salas. The one million square metre project will be home to eight thousand luxury residential units and 50,000 people when completed as well as a host of office buildings, targeting both NRIs, local buyers as well as investors. The development will also cater to a burgeoning tourism market and the city’s

WH Desk

four million inhabitants with a five star hotel, marine club, multiple restaurants, malls and multiplexes. In addition to the many sports available on land, Crystal Lagoons will also incorporate a diverse range of experiences for keen water sports enthusiasts and families alike. Not only will the network of canals provide a means of transport they will also provide opportunities for kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing and swimming. A total of 100,000 cubic metres (310,600 gallons) of water will be required to fill the 6-hectare lagoon, which will be fringed by a range of recreational areas and estimated to be in the region of US$200 million investment and will be one of the biggest Lagoons in Asia once completed.

olden Tulip Hotel South Asia, part of an International chain, Louvre Hotels Group announced an innovative collaboration by inviting their distinguished Privilege Club Members to a host of delightful and exclusive privileges. The privilege vouchers offer the esteemed privilege club members to enjoy a lavish cocktail of leisure, rejuvenation and celebrations exclusively served in true Golden Tulip style. The card holders will be entitled to 20 percent discount at on food and beverages consumed at the restaurant and bar, spa, salon, business centre, pastry shop, and designated rooms. Further to this, the voucher will entitle its guests to a complimentary buffet/ fixed menu meal for two at Golden Tulip’s all day dining restaurants.

HOSPITALITY NEW LAUNCH

APPOINTMENT

Niranta Transit Hotel ready to welcome guest With its convenient location and pay-by-the-hour booking system, Niranta provides a time-saving option for passengers to relax in the lap of luxury with great value for money.

Kodesia joins Park Plaza Noida as F&B Manager

WH Desk

he International Hotels and Resorts Private Limited (IHAR) has launched the Niranta Airport Transit Hotel and Lounge for transit passengers at Terminal 2 of GVK Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (CSIA) in Mumbai. International and domestic travellers transiting through Mumbai can avail of the luxurious accommodations and curated guest services at Niranta, which offers worldclass facilities with fine detailing for comfort. Niranta is wholly managed and operated by International

Airport Hotels and Resorts Private Limited. True to its name, which is derived from the Sanskrit words Nirantar (which translates to constant) and Nirant (which means peace), Niranta is designed to refresh and rejuvenate travelweary guests with its soothing ambience and tasteful interiors. Comfort and care are a hallmark of all services and facilities at Niranta. Highly skilled chefs work round the clock in a 24-hour kitchen to serve their guests with a wide

menu of gentle, slow-cooked cuisine the ultimate in ‘comfort gastronomy’. Niranta houses the only lounge-cum-bar and spa at Terminal 2 arrivals. Guests, if they wish, can experience the best of ancient healing therapies with expertly administered foot reflexology and Asian spa treatments. Niranta also serves the business and work needs of travellers, with a spacious work area, a media hub and complimentary Wi-Fi for its guests.

TIME Hotels hosts first ever Dubai Waiters Race WH Desk

he runners faced a unique challenge with speed and dexterity the order of the day as they were required to complete the run carrying a loaded tray containing two full glasses and a bottle of water. The waiters were judged on the amount of water lost, waiter standards (posture, grooming, smile) and timing. The race took place on 20 November 2015. Speed, agility and balance were challenged at every turn as they raced as fast as possible along the 1.5-kilometre course, with participating hotels including TIME Hotels, Atana, Golden Tulip, Gloria Hotel, Boutique 7, Auris and First Central. Co-ordinated by Festivities Dubai, the starting point for the inaugural race was the TIME

Sivankar Kodesia Food and Beverage Manager Park Plaza Noida

ivankar Kodesia has, recently, joined Park Plaza Noida as Food and Beverage Manager. He comes with over 14 years of experience. At Park Plaza Noida, he would be responsible for directing all Food and Beverage efforts towards achieving the operational goal of the hotel. Prior to joining Park Plaza Noida, he was with Hilton Worldwide. He has also worked with DoubleTree By Hilton Gurgaon as a Food and Beverage Manager.

Oak Hotel & Suites in TECOM, with the 35 eager participants. “The Waiters’ Race really brought the community together, overall it was a great success and we are already receiving entries for next year’s event; so we look forward to making it an even bigger, better and more competitive race,” said Mohamed Awadalla, CEO, TIME Hotels.

Dinesh Warnakulasuriya, a 28-year old waiter at the Ristretto Café in Golden Tulip Al Thanyah, beat off stiff competition at the first ever TIME Hotels Dubai Waiters Race. The Individual Race was won by Golden Tulip, with Atana taking second place, and TIME Hotels coming in third. The Relay Race was won by Atana, followed by Golden Tulip, with Gloria Hotel in third place.

In the past , he has had stints with hotel companies like Imperial New Delhi, Shangri-La New Delhi, Thistle Group of Hotels(U.K Based company),Jaypee & Intercontinental Hotels Shivankar’s Education Qualifications include 3-year diploma in Hotel Management from Institute of Hotel Management, Lucknow and MBA in Hospitality and Tourism from IMI Switzerland.

December 2015 33

TECHNOLOGY

Amadeus to build & foster travel tech start-up community in Asia Pacific with Amadeus Next WH Desk

madeus Next leverages Amadeus’ technology, expertise, reach and funding, to evolve new and original ideas in travel, empowering travel start-ups in Asia Pacific to shape the future of travel. It also serves as a driving force to build an ecosystem of likeminded partners and organisations that are excited about travel technology, and looking to challenge the status quo. To date, there are six travel technology start-ups on board, including Klook, Orahi, Triposo and TopDocs, a platform for medical tourists to book a seamless medical travel experience. “Amadeus Next is not a short-term project or a one-off investments, it’s a long-term partnership and commitment to create a collaborative travel tech startup

community in Asia Pacific. To truly shape the future of travel, we need to work together, across the industry, and with travel players big and small, to create a collaborative ecosystem with the traveller at the centre,” said Simon Akeroyd, Vice President, Corporate Strategy and Business Development, Amadeus Asia Pacific. “Amadeus is at the forefront of the travel technology industry and a major player in the travel start-up scene in this region. So partnering with ‘Amadeus Next’ was a no brainer. For our success and to go grow quickly we need access to leading travel technology, expert advisory from a global network with funding opportunities which Amadeus is providing,” said Cassandra Italia, CEO & Founder, TopDocs. Additionally, JungleVentures, CyberAgent Ventures Techsauce and Hubba, Thailand’s start-up leader in terms of co-working

spaces, technology events, technology media and startup education, have joined Amadeus Next. Amartit Charoenphan, Founder, CEO Hubba, commented, “We believe that big corporations have a lot to offer to start-ups, but Amadeus Next goes one step further. They truly work and think like a start-up and what they’re doing will be pivotal to the industry and to start-ups in the travel technology space”. WHAT AMADEUS NEXT OFFERS START-UPS TECHNOLOGY: Start-ups gain access to Amadeus’ technology and solutions to build and validate the Minimum Viable Product, as well as leverage decades of experience in travel technology. EXPERTISE: Start-ups can work with Amadeus experts to incubate and validate new ideas and businesses. They will also

Simon Akeroyd VP, Corp Strategy & Business Dev Amadeus Asia Pacific

receive mentoring and guidance to navigate their way to success. REACH: Start-ups will be able to connect to the right network with Amadeus’ support to test, validate and pilot new business models with Amadeus customers and industry players. FUNDING: Amadeus will help start-ups to connect to investors and venture capital around the world. Globally, Amadeus also has a dedicated Amadeus Venture Fund which offers early stage minority investments in start-ups.

Middle East online travel market to double in value to US$35 billion in next two years By the end of 2017, according to a joint study conducted by Travelport and Phocuswright, online travel bookings, which currently account for 25 percent of all bookings in the Middle East, will rise to 36 percent. WH Desk

rowth in online travel planning and booking across the region will underpin the Travel Tech Theatre focus at Arabian Travel Market 2016, with research firm Phocuswright reporting that the Middle East’s online travel market is forecast to almost double in value within the next two years, rising from US$18 billion to US$35 billion by 2018.

34 December 2015

According to research released by Euromonitor International, in 2014, 60 percent of airline reservations and ticketing was made online by Dubai based travellers alone, driven largely by a younger tech-smart generation for whom online and mobile technology is the preferred booking channel. Looking at it regionally, 46 percent of airline tickets in the UAE are booked online, followed by Kuwait (34 percent), Saudi Arabia (23 percent), Lebanon (18 percent) and Egypt (12 percent). Around 50 percent of the UAE population relies on the Internet as the first port of call when planning or purchasing travelrelated products, and the rising use of mobile technology is also supporting online trends, with 50 percent of travellers from the UAE and 35 percent from

Saudi Arabia leading the region in using their smart phones to make travel arrangements. “The region has seen phenomenal growth in online engagement in the last two years, transitioning from a traditional face-to-face booking model to a new virtual reality where 24/7 updated information is a basic expectation and speed of access is essential when it comes to planning, researching and booking,” said Nadege Noblet-Segers, Exhibition Manager, Arabian Travel Market, which takes place at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre, on 25-28 April 2016. “Airlines and hotels are the acknowledged market leaders when it comes to highly effective online marketing and consumer engagement, and this is an

Nadege Noblet-Segers Exhibition Manager Arabian Travel Market

area where all industry players needs to ensure that they look at increasing market share and awareness through a blend of creative messaging teamed with ongoing technology investment, especially when it comes to mobile applications,” said Noblet-Segers.

CRUISE

TIRUN collaborates with Singapore Tourism Board & Changi Airport Group WH Desk

irun Travel Marketing continues its association with the Singapore Tourism Board and Changi Airport Group to offer attractive incentives to cruisers. This year, guests who book a Royal Caribbean cruise onboard the largest ship in South East Asia, Mariner of the Seas, get free passes to Singapore’s most exciting tourist destination, Sentosa Island. Cruisers will have access to five of the island’s most superlative attractions including the Trick Eye Museum, the Segway Fun Ride, one 4D Adventure Land Show of their choice, the Cable Car ‘Sky Network’ and a Wings of Time show. “We have been partnering with the Singapore Tourism Board and Singapore Changi Airport Group for the last 3 years. The results have been great as guests find great value in the added incentives we are able to bundle along with their cruise. Like every year, we aim to generate significant excitement around the association through radio and digital promotions. The goal is to enable travellers

to extract maximum benefit when they cruise with Royal Caribbean International from Singapore,” said, Ratna Chadha, Chief Executive, TIRUN Travel Marketing. Elaborating on the initiative, Yuemin Li-Misra, Area Director, India and Bangladesh, Singapore Tourism Board, said, “It’s a great time to be in Singapore right now, with the year-end celebrations just around the corner. We have seen a double digit growth in 1H of 2015 in cruise passengers from India to Singapore and have partnered Changi Airport Group and TIRUN Travel Marketing to promote cruising

from Singapore to keep the momentum strong. She further said, “To make the Singapore cruise journey a memorable one for new and repeat cruisers, we have put together an attractive experience pass offering some of Singapore’s newest attractions such as the Trick Eye Museum, the Segway Fun Ride, a 4D Adventure Land show, the Cable Car ‘Sky Network’ and Wings of Time show in Sentosa Singapore. There is so much more to discover and enjoy in the Lion City and we urge you to join in on the fun.”

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BOSS The Scent launches exclusively at Delhi Duty Free WH Desk

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eltin Suites, the luxurious 5-star hotel in Goa, is offering exciting packages to turn your celebrations merrier. Deltin is synonymous with world-class accommodation, impeccable services and unrivalled experiences in the heart of this tourists’ paradise. Deltin Suites have come out with two brand new exclusive deals to make your short vacations memories of a lifetime.

SHOPPING

` 1500/- worth One Time Playing Chips (OTPC) This package is valid from 1st October 2015 till 31st March 2016 and is inclusive of breakfast. Package will not be applicable during the blackout date and subject to availability. OFFER: 2 Nights / 3 Days – Premium Stay and Play Package for 2 only for ` 33,000/-

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Delhi Duty Free retail space at T3, IGI Airport will be the only place to try and buy the new Hugo Boss. In May, BOSS Perfumes announced the launch of their latest fall fragrance, The Scent, alongside the advertising campaign for the perfume’s new ambassador, Divergent actor, Theo James. Delhi Duty Free customers are the first people in entire Indian Subcontinent who will be able to buy the fragrance. Boss the Scent will be available in 50ml and 100ml Eau De Toilette priced at $57 and $78 respectively. DDFS Spokesperson, Abhijit Das, Head of Marketing added, “Perfume and Cosmetics (P&C) is one of the largest and most important categories in Delhi Duty Free. The key emphasis of this category is placed on bringing best and latest to customers with assurance of International level service & quality. Delhi Duty Free is the largest duty free operator in India is known for leading the paradigm change in travel retail in the region. With an estimated 12 million travelers passing through the international airport, Delhi Duty Free offers a comprehensive range of Perfumes and is proud to launch “Boss The Scent “– an exquisite perfume for Men. Also, customers will find many exciting offer and launches in coming weeks as part of Diwali celebrations. “Boss The Scent” was part of many promotions planned for Diwali shopping season.

This package is valid from 15th October 2015 till 31 January 2016 Package will not be applicable during the blackout date and subject to availability.

December 2015 35

FACT & FIGURES

Performance of domestic airlines for the year 2015 Traffic data submitted by various domestic airlines has been analysed for the month of October 2015. Following are the salient features. Passenger Growth

Passenger Complaints during the month During October 2015, a total of 727 passenger related complaints had been received by the scheduled domestic airlines. The number of complaints per 10,000 passengers carried for the month of October 2015 has been 1.0. The airline-wise details are as follows:

Passengers carried by domestic airlines during Jan-Oct 2015 were 660.60 lakhs as against 550.69 lakhs during the corresponding period of previous year thereby registering a growth of 19.96 percent. (Ref Table 1).

Passenger Load Factor The passenger load factor in the month of October 2015 has shown increasing trend compared to previous month primarily due to the onset of tourist season. The passenger load factors of various scheduled domestic airlines in October 2015 are as follows (Ref Table 2).

On-Time Performance (Scheduled Domestic Airlines) On-Time Performance (OTP) of scheduled domestic airlines has been computed for four metro airports viz. Bangalore, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai. Airline-wise OTP at four metro airports for the month of October 2015 is as follows:

Cancellations The overall cancellation rate of scheduled domestic airlines for the month of October 2015 has been 0.57 percent. Airline-wise details of cancellations are as follows:

36 December 2015

FACT & FIGURES EXPEDIA VACATION DEPRIVATION REPORT 2015

Lack of vacation days keeps Indians from travelling to new destinations

xpedia released the results of the 2015 Vacation Deprivation study, an annual study of vacation habits across multiple countries and continents. The survey highlights that India is the fourth most vacation deprived nation globally, with 65 percent of Indians saying they feel very or somewhat vacation deprived, and 20 percent saying they are very vacation deprived. “Vacations play a critical role in creating a work-life balance as it reenergizes people to be more focused at work (53 percent Indians agree). According to Expedia’s 2015 Vacation Deprivation Survey, 54 percent of Indians would prefer more vacation days over a pay rise, the highest globally. Sixty-one percent of Indians associate vacations a great deal with their overall happiness. In fact, 94 percent are ready to make sacrifices for just an extra day of vacation. The deprivation Indians are feeling may stem from the fact that 68 percent of Indians have cancelled or postponed their vacation due to work commitments.” said Manmeet Ahluwalia, Expedia India. “The interesting fact is that while Indians are receiving on average, one addition vacation day this year (from 20 days last year to 21 this year) and are more likely to say their bosses are supportive of them taking their vacation time than they were last year (from 64 percent to 70 percent), they continue to take fewer days than they receive (an average of 16 days this year and last year). This clearly shows that Indians are addicted to their work so much that they often choose to work even when they have earned their time off,” he added.

Do we travel? We do, but can’t get enough! Indians are the most likely of any country to have taken at least one business trip in the past year (80 percent), followed by Mexicans (69 percent) and Malaysians (60 percent) Indians (91 percent) are also among the most likely to have taken at least one leisure trip in the past year, along with Mexicans (94 percent), Italians (94 percent), Thai (93 percent), Hong Kongers (92 percent), Norwegians, Germans and Malaysians (91 percent) Indians (9 percent) along with Malaysians (8 percent) and New Zealanders (7 percent) are also more likely to tie trips to weddings or family obligations. They are also more likely to extend work trips to include vacation (6 percent) along with those from Thailand (6 percent) Malaysia and Spain (4 percent) Indians are the most likely (61 percent) globally to associate vacationing a great deal with their overall happiness, followed by Thailand (56 percent) and UAE (55 percent). In fact, vacations continue to outrank finding money, getting a tax refund, celebrating a birthday and even being told they look younger than they are, as the thing that makes Indians the happiest. Despite not taking all the vacation days they receive, 73 percent of Indians feel they deserve more vacation than they currently get, and those who feel they deserve more vacation time, on average, feel they should receive 15 extra days.

Indians (65 percent) are ranked as the 4th most Vacation Deprived country in 2015 preceded by UAE (76 percent), Malaysia (73 percent) and Singapore (71 percent). With this in mind, it is perhaps not surprising that 54 percent of Indians would prefer more vacation days over a pay raise (the highest globally), followed by Sweden (42 percent) and Japan (37 percent).

Worry that important work decisions will be made without them, with mentions highest in India (18 percent), Malaysia and Brazil (13 percent), Hong Kong (12 percent)

Possible reasons for not taking all their vacation days:

Biggest barriers for planning:

A desire to bank/carry over the days to next year for a longer vacation, with this highest among Sweden (41 percent), India (32 percent), and Singapore (30 percent) Difficulty coordinating a time that works with their spouse/ partner/family member/ friend’s schedule, with this highest in India, Malaysia and Thailand (30 percent), South Korea (28 percent), Hong Kong (26 percent) The ability to get money in exchange for unused vacation days, with this highest among those in Brazil (30 percent), Denmark (28 percent) and India (25 percent) Having a personal schedule that does not allow for vacation, with this mention highest in Thailand (31 percent), India (27 percent) and Malaysia (25 percent) A fear that taking all of their vacation time will be perceived negatively by their employer, with mentions highest in South Korea (18 percent), India (13 percent) and Malaysia, Thailand (11 percent)

A tendency to use up all vacation time because of illness, with mentions highest in Indians (10 percent), USA, Mexico, Malaysia (8 percent) and Thailand (7 percent)

Work demands of the employee, with this highest among those from Hong Kong and South Korea (46 percent), Thailand (45 percent) and India (41 percent) Work demands of a spouse or partner, with mentions highest among those in Malaysia (42 percent), South Korea (39 percent) and India (32 percent) If they had more vacation days Some would take longer vacations, highest in Singapore (63 percent), Malaysia (54 percent) and India (53 percent) Some would travel to new places (rather than favorite/ usual ones), highest among those in India (67 percent), Thailand (66 percent) and Malaysia (64 percent) Some would travel further, highest among those in Hong Kong (54 percent), Singapore, Japan & Malaysia (48 percent), South Korea (45 percent) and India (44 percent)

December 2015 37

APPOINTMENT & EVENTS DOMESTIC TRAVEL & TOURISM FAIR (TTF) January 08 - 10, 2016 Chennai, India SATTE January 29-31, 2016 Pragati Maidan, New Delhi INDIA TRAVEL MART (ITM) (Intâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Travel and Tourism Exhibition) February 06 - 08, 2016 Chandigarh, India

INTERNATIONAL Jitesh Patta General Manager Four Points by Sheraton Bengaluru

Jitesh Patta has been appointed as General Manager, Four Points by Sheraton Bengaluru, Whitefield. He has been involved with the hospitality industry for the past 18 years. His previous association with Four Points by Sheraton saw him in the role of General Manager at FPS Dehradun. Prior to his association with the Starwood Hotels and Resorts, he has worked with brands like Carlzor Rezidor, Country Club India Limited, Tivoli Garden, Royal Goan Beach Club, Fortune Jodhpur, The Clarks and The Surya New Delhi.

Ankur Mehrotra Director Sales & Marketing Park Plaza Noida

Ankur Mehrotra has been appointed Director Sales & Marketing at Park Plaza Noida. With an enriching experience of 12 years, Ankur aspires to direct all sales and marketing efforts towards achieving the operational goal of the hotel. His previous assignment was with Country Inn & Suites Sahibabad as Director of Sales. Other assignments in the past include hotel companies like The Claridges, Jaypee Hotels & Intercontinental. Before joining here he has worked with Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group for three and a half years.

Your B2B Partner

38 December 2015

Sapna Jairam Director of Sales & Marketing Four Points by Sheraton Pune

Sapna Jairam has been appointed Director of Sales & Marketing at Four Points by Sheraton Pune. She has been associated with the hotel since 2013 as the Director of Sales of the hotel. She comes to Four Points by Sheraton Pune with an experience of more than 13 years in the hospitality industry. In her previous stints, she has worked closely with leading global hospitality brands including Marriott Group of Hotels, Intercontinental Hotels Group and Holiday Inn Group.

GREEK TOURISM EXPO December 04-06, 2015 Athens, Greece TRAVEL TURKEY IZMIR (Trade Fair & Conference for Tourism) December 10 - 13, 2015 Izmir, Turkey FITUR Intâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Tourism Trade Fair January 20 -24, 2016 Madrid, Spain

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Volume II Issue III December 2015

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In Conversation

Vasudha Sondhi MD, Outbound Marketing

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