Scan & year. But, now thatsituationis tothe had areallygoodstart from anAccorperspective, our sectorandinQ1,India, levels ofimprovementwithin year. InQ4,Indiashowedreal ues tobedifficultpredictthis predict lastyear, anditcontin- itwasdifficultto “Unfortunately, he believes. dicting thefutureisstilltricky, andpre- are againuncertain Q4 2020intoQ12021,times business inIndiamovingfrom witnessed a positive period of at Accor. And,thoughthegroup talks aboutthelast12months as well,”saysMarkWillis, ashe “ or slow down dramatically. The group alreadyhasover 25hotelsinthepipelinefor India. the pandemicimpactedeveryone acrosstheglobe, business for Accor didnotstop Mark Willis,ChiefExecutive Officer atAccor,for MiddleEastandAfrica says thatwhile for the next few months, says thetrade. and remainmentallyhealthy andstrong needstotightenitsseatbelt The industry but willalsohelpusreachnewones. forexistingclients whichwillnotonly complementourservices vertical anew excitedtostart We are very with itsownsetofopportunities. MD, Pathfinders Holidays President, OTOAIand EC Member&ImmediatePast Mahendra Vakharia Vol. XXXIIIIssue10; May 2 Times arechanging Nisha Verma I ddppl.com India will bounce back India willbounceback Share a humbling period a humblingperiod of reflection,quite t’s beenaperiod

of the journey. Last year’s challenge came of thejourney. challengecame Lastyear’s andnottheEnd another Bendin the journey an optimist I will always say, this period is few monthsthesituationwillchange.As but surely,havoc across thecountry in a pandemicmayhavewreaked COVID-19 endure thisperiod.Thesecondwaveofthe strengthtosustainand up allyourreserve demoralised withthepresentsituation–pull nottobeboggeddownor important is very and remain mentally healthy and strong. It months, wewillhavetotightenourseatbelt nd fortnight i­­ fortnight I strongly believe that for the next few Istronglybelievethatforthenextfew

App-based taxisfor Goa...... We arepaying for beingsolax..... its strong development pipeline its strongdevelopmentpipeline plansforIndia, flects inAccor’s says. Thisoptimismalsore- fully wellfromacrisis,”Willis always bouncesbackwonder is oneofthoselocationswhich so withregardtoIndiawhich er, we remain optimistic, more ticularly hardtopredict,howev- under threat.Thefutureispar CEO –MiddleEast&Africa,Accor Mark Willis

ssue 2021 Contd onpage5 - - says, “Even though a very high high says, “Eventhoughavery and outboundmarket.He ket, andisacriticalinbound China as astand-alone mar uptherewiththeUSand truly The CEObelievesthatIndiais increasing ourfootprinthere.” from growthinthecountry, and about India,ourexpectations still haveapositivefeeling at the moment, we uncertain shaky today, andparticularly So, whiletheoutlookremains which willopenlateintheyear. include asecondibisinMumbai other keyopeningsfortheyear fromtheRaffles inJaipur,Apart open overthenext36months. over 25hotelsinthepipelineto to openingsinIndia, we have our expansionplanwithregard try. Willissays,“Inlinewith and networkacrossthecoun- I MOT andIATA, meeting. thiswas ano-holds-barred virtual answering andguidingthem onsomeoftheirqueries. From AirIndiatobankguarantee, In amarathon sessionofQ&Afor itsmembers, TAAI discussedtheirwoes while themselves on the Ministry of themselves onthe Ministry also urged members to register who waschairingthesession, Jyoti Mayal,President ofTAAI, ance whereverrequired. recently andofferedguid- of queries from its members fice bearersfieldedamyriad of India(TAAI) nationalof the Travel Agents Association Register yourselfwithMOT Hazel Jain A DDPPUBLICATION about threehours, sion thatlasted n amarathonses- 06 05

Change isafootChange for M!CE...... Technology inapandemic...... - -

to developingourbrandshere.” quently, weremaincommitted from Indiaishighandconse- perspective. Theexpectation but alsofromaportfolio-growth ness generationperspective, fromabusi- not onlyimportant is over the years. The country India hasgrowndramatically still, outboundbusinessfrom segment, relies ontheinternal percentage ofbusiness in India and leisure A bettermixofbusiness long-term strategy.long-term Itisfair to in thehotelbusinessisa demands. Willissays,“Growth to thechangingconsumer is constantlylookingtoadapt ness hotelsegment,thegroup India leanstowardsthebusi- in portfolio While Accor’s but itwill.” ing, maybeinanotherform, oflicens- be notintheform are sureitwillhappen,may it out.We us andwewillsort registering, pleasereachoutto you still faceany problem with document simplified.Butif We haveactuallygottenevery call themselvesatravelagent. do thismaynotbeallowedto Very soon,agencieswhodon’t yourself ontheMOTwebsite. say itagain–pleaseregister have saidthisbeforeandIwill Tourism website.Shesaid,“I Contd onpage6

Jay Bhatia,VicePresident, Adding moredetailstothisis tickets for travel between July so muchthatconfirmed British travellersthissummer; most populardestinationsfor For example,ittopsthelistof such astheUSandUK. from majoroutboundmarkets rewarded inflightbookings That publicpositionhasbeen or recoveredfromthedisease. test nated, passedaCOVID-19 visitors whohavebeenvacci- ing awillingnesstowelcome has ledthewayinannounc- highly dependent on tourism, Greece, whoseeconomyis more steeplythanelsewhere. outbound flightbookingsclimb larly welladvanced,haveseen - tion campaignsareparticu T the key to reviving travel. international reveals thatvaccinations appeartohold The latestresearchfromForwardKeys President, TAAI Jyoti Mayal Pages : 20 TT Bureau TT Vaccinate torevive 13 09 TravTalkIndia.com UK, wherevaccina- Israel, theUSand hree originmarkets, cities areGreek,withthe veals thatsevenofthetop10 in Europethissummerre- most resilientdestinations analysis of the Furthermore, moment in2019. they wereattheequivalent 12 percentaheadofwhere and Septemberarecurrently agent oratouroperatormust who wantstobecomeatravel person –so every government men was thensubmitted to the representation fromourchair that breakthrough because the first.Wethe government got toregisterwith is mandatory ready gottenanapproval.It Telangana chapter has al- our Andhra Pradesh and and tive state governments taking itupwiththeirrespec- arealso chapter chairmen TAAI, whosaid,“Ourregional VP Insights,ForwardKeys Olivier Ponti Contd onpage12 Contd onpage6 ` 20/- -

BULLETIN Apply for ‘Industry’ status Government of Maharashtra has now announced the criteria for levying taxes and charges at the industrial rate for non-classified hotels in the state that are eligible for ‘Industry’ status. The application process is now open on the official website of Maharashtra Tourism.

ment has now announced the TT Bureau criteria for levying taxes and n a landmark deci- charges at the industrial rate sion to bolster the for the non-classified hotels, in Ihospitality sector, the special hospitality category. Government of Maharashtra The criteria are categorised in had awarded the hospital- two sections, Annexure-A and ity sector the status of an Annexure-B. industry last year. From April 1, 2021, one to five-star Annexure-A outlines 50 hotels registered with the mandatory ‘minimum basic Ministry of Tourism have standards’ that need to be been able to enjoy tariffs and du- fulfilled by the non-classified hotels. Some of them include: ties on electricity, water, proper- ethical behaviour by the reduce, reuse, separation ty, development and non-agri- v A minimum of six letable hotel staff and composting) cultural taxes at industrial rates. rooms with windows v No use of plastics For the hotels which are not Annexure-B for 'Green and/ or proper ventilation v Regular efficiency audit of registered with the Ministry, Hotel' lists 43 norms. The v Cleanliness of the hotel eco-friendly equipment an expert committee was ap- green hotel status will be given v Effective management of v Initiatives taken to spread with a view to promote eco- pointed under the chairmanship the reception and other friendly and sustainable tour- awareness and motivate of Dr Dhananjay Sawalkar, public premises ism practices. If these 10 basic customers to follow the Director, Directorate of Tour- v Clean and licensed kitchen eligible criteria are met, ‘green eco-friendly practices ism, Maharashtra, to define the v Special arrangements for hotel’ status can be attained v Seek customer feedback norms for them to avail these the disabled by a particular hotel. Some of for improvements benefits. The state govern- v Code of Conduct and them include: v Introduction of key-cards or main switches to cut Application procedure v Annual training for all hotel off electricity in unoccu- staff regarding eco-friendly pied guestrooms Interested hoteliers need to visit the official website of ‘Maharashtra practices to be followed v Adoption and use of bulbs Tourism’ and click on the ‘What’s New’ tab for the form for the indus- v A rainwater harvesting that save power try status registration. The industrial concessions will be applicable system to be in place v Use of water and from the date of registration certificate of the applicant hotel. They v Effective waste manage- should check the criteria on the official website of the government. energy eficient appliances in ment practices (waste kitchen and laundry. qw guestcolumn The present is a wake-up call ‘The second wave has been a wake-up call for India, pushing the government to increase its VIEWPOINT spending on strengthening the medical infrastructure in the country,’ says Mandeep Lamba, President (South Asia), HVS ANAROCK.

In the hour of need n the last decade, ernment also set up facilitation considerably. India has been on the crumbling healthcare India has emerged counters at major airports for one of the few countries to infrastructure in the country. Perhaps the truest measure of a trusty friend or Ias one of the leading medical travellers and launched manufacture its own COVID Hotels are providing fresh, an ally is whether they show up to help you and medical tourism destinations a portal to provide comprehen- vaccination, which is being packed meals to medical staff guide you in your hour of need. In that sense, the globally. The presence of sev- sive information on the health- used to inoculate not only In- and tying up with hospitals eral high-quality, well-equipped care facilities in the country. As dians but also people in other pandemic has been a litmus test for many – whether healthcare facilities along with a result, foreign tourist arrivals countries, clearly showcas- it is the nation’s leader, the ministry of tourism, or the a strong base of highly skilled (FTAs) on medical visas to India ing the country’s scientific various travel trade associations. Every stakeholder and specialised English-speak- have grown at a notable CAGR of prowess and capabilities. ing medical professionals of- over 30 per cent during 2014-19 Better is now closely watching each of these entities and fering world-class treatments and accounted for 6.4 per cent Moreover, India continues to healthcare creating a mental balance sheet while questioning at much more affordable costs of the total FTAs in the country be one of the most affordable themselves: Who can I count as my real friend? compared to developed na- in 2019. The medical tourism destinations for medical treat- facilities will go tions are some of the reasons segment was expected to reach ments globally, which will con- Trade associations, in fact, are the first link in the for the growth of this segment US$9 bn in 2020 as per a report tinue to be an advantage in the a long way in chain for travel agents and tour operators, and in India. Reports indicate that by FICCI, however, the onset of post-COVID world. making India medical treatments and travel the COVID-19 pandemic and possibly the immediate quarter from where help in India cost up to 50 per cent the related travel restrictions be- India competes with other a medical can arrive. Members are therefore bound to take less than that in developed came temporary roadblocks in its Asian countries that offer tourism hub stock now and reconsider their allegiance to their western countries. India has growth story. The segment has similar advantages to medi- also been successful at attract- been witnessing green shoots in cal travellers. It is, therefore, association(s). The pressure is now on these trade ing medical tourists from other the last few months with easing imperative to develop effective bodies in turn, whether national, regional or state- to provide isolation & quar- wide, to prove their worth. In light of this, the Travel antine facilities to mildly Agents Association of India (TAAI) has been taking symptomatic and asymp- tomatic patients, helping re- proactive steps. It recently conducted an open vir- duce the acute shortage of tual forum for all its members across India to par- hospital beds in the country. ticipate and address their problems to the national The second wave has been office bearers. Every agent was heard and every a wake-up call for India as problem was either addressed by the office bearers it exposed the issues in the or acknowledged and noted. Not just this, its presi- country’s healthcare sys- tem, pushing the government dent Jyoti Mayal and her team encouraged members to increase its spending on to be more active, ask more questions, and reach strengthening the medical out to them for any help. Whether it was an airline infrastructure in the country. developing nations, mainly travel restrictions and the creation marketing campaigns to create Better equipped healthcare issue, an IATA query or a flagging morale, the TAAI from Asia and Africa, looking of air bubbles, with a number awareness and communicate facilities with a strong base team was more than happy to discuss them all. The for specialised treatments that of medical travellers, especially the COVID safety measures of highly skilled and special- association has said it will conduct more such may not be easily available in those coming in for critical treat- being implemented at vari- ised medical professionals, their home countries. ments, gradually picking up. ous facilities. The campaigns along with India’s reputation sessions periodically to help their members. should not only highlight the of being one of the most af- Associations have a critical role to play in serving an Looking at the potential in this The current pandemic is an various healthcare facilities fordable medical tourism des- emerging and different set of member needs during segment, the government intro- inflection point for the medical and services offered at a much tinations globally will go a long duced the e-medical visa in 2014 tourism segment in India, giving more reasonable cost but way in making the country a the COVID-19 crisis. It’s also a time of opportunity, which, along with the other com- the country an opportunity to also promote India’s strength global medical tourism a time to experiment with new ways of member petitive advantages mentioned become a global medical tour- in alternate medicine and hub in the future,” reiterates engagement. The first step is to ask, listen, and earlier, has provided a significant ism hub as soon as international practices such as Ayurveda, Mandeep S Lamba, President boost to this segment. The gov- travel restrictions are eased Naturopathy and Yoga, which (South Asia), HVS ANAROCK. then prioritise their needs. Associations won’t know can help patients recuperate how their members are doing and what they need after their treatment. India has unless they ask them. They also need to schedule 37 JCI and 767 NABH-accred- ited hospitals and it is impor- virtual meet-ups to discuss these issues. Through tant to ensure that all these this, they will be able to to identify critical concerns, facilities meet the required do some 'group-think' to address some of them quality standards. and will help association heads understand what “The Indian hospitality sector additional resources and information its members has joined the country’s fight Mandeep S Lamba President (South Asia), HVS ANAROCK need. Associations must also continue to provide against the second wave of the pandemic and is trying its (The article is co-authored by Dipti Mohan, Senior Manager credible, trusted information to its members. – Research, HVS South Asia. Views expressed are the best to help reduce the stress authors’ own. The publication may not subscribe to them).

Vikramajit Editorial Advertising Advertising (Mumbai) Mumbai: Devika Jeet Suchita Saran TRAVTALK is a publication of DDP Publications Private Limited. information contained in this publication which is provided The publisher assumes no responsibility for returning any 504, Marine Chambers, 43, New Marine Lines, Chairman Nisha Verma Nikhil Jeet Branch Manager All information in TRAVTALK is derived from sources, which we for general use, and may not be appropriate for the read- material solicited or unsolicited nor is he responsible for Hazel Jain Director Opp. SNDT College, Mumbai - 400 020, India, Manas Dwivedi Harshal Ashar consider reliable and a sincere effort is made to report ac- ers’ particular circumstances. Contents of this publication material lost or damaged. Arumita Gupta General Manager Ph.: +91-22-22070129; 22070130 SanJeet Senior Manager curate information. It is passed on to our readers without are copyright. 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The same rule applies when there Ph.:+971-6-5528954, Fax: +971-6-5528956 expressed by third parties in abstract and/or in interviews is a copyright or the article is taken from another publica- all advertisements without explanation. Design: Nityanand Misra TravTalk is printed, published and edited by SanJeet on behalf Sudhir Mudgal are not necessarily shared by TRAVTALK. However, we wish to tion. An exemption is hereby granted for the extracts used All advertisements must comply with the Indian and Inter- of DDP Publications Pvt. Ltd., printed at Modest Print Pack Pvt. Production: Anil Kharbanda advice our readers that one or more recognised authorities for the purpose of fair review, provided two copies of the may hold different views than those reported. Material used same publication are sent to us for our records. Publications national Advertisements Code. The publisher will not be Ltd., C-52, DDA Sheds Okhla Industrial Area, Phase-I, New Circulation: Ashok Rana Delhi-110020 and published at 72, Todarmal Road, in this publication is intended for information purpose only. reproducing material either in part or in whole, without per- liable for any damage or loss caused by delayed publication, New Delhi - 110 001 error or failure of an advertisement to appear. CIN: U22210DL2012PTC230432 Readers are advised to seek specific advice before acting on mission could face legal action. Ph.:+91-11-23234177 ASSOCIATIONS may 2nd Fortnight issue 2021 TravTalk 5 Julia Simpson One must keep a cash reserve to take over as Contd from page 1 chief of WTTC COVID-19 has created three Most operators are still in Any hope for revival at least clear opportunities. It has dem- the travel business trying out The World Travel & Tour- for the Indian outbound market onstrated the need for tourism. new strategies for survival. We ism Council (WTTC) in 2021 has been laid to rest It has also shown that a more will now have to wait for the situ- has announced the de- now. We hope that 2022 shall sustainable model is needed for ation to improve. Once it does, parture of Gloria Guevara see the dawn of a new sun ris- our region. And thirdly, using we will need to be more careful after four years of leading ing and bring the travel trade digital tools for good destination on the travel protocols so that the global tourism body. out of oblivion. I believe security management will be an essential another surge in infections does Taking over the reins (financial and otherwise) for an step for us. Travel experiences not happen. Meanwhile, we may from her as the Council's unforeseen, difficult situation Mehernosh Colombowalla Pranav Kapadia Director, Beyond Borders will change immensely going for- Founder, Global Destinations need to focus on regional tour- President & CEO effective such as this should be planned th ward. So it's less about predict- ism keeping our boundaries tight August 15 is Julia Simpson, by each one of us. Only those We anticipate a lot of last- ing certainties and more about In my opinion, one of the especially in case of the North- who had this buffer could sail minute bookings when the forecasting possibilities. While key learnings from the first past this tsunami and the rest are eastern states. Though regional situation eases and things start tourism remains a means for wave of the pandemic and its left struggling. I don’t think any tourism does not help local oper- opening up. I would like to men- primary earning, it is necessary eventual impact on business new business has a long-term ators much, it provides sustain- tion here that the percentage to diversify into other priority sec- has been adopting resilience as ability to the other stakeholders. outlay currently, though I see lots a crisis management strategy. of advance confirmations has tors such as Agri business and And considering the geographi- of my trade colleagues engage With resilience you can adapt dropped considerably. As travel outsourcing services. Innovative cal and cultural trait of the region, in other businesses such as to the environment and new agents, we will also be very care- ways to overcome the impact travel within the seven states can medical, sanitation, etc. We ful in choosing or recommending circumstances to mitigate the will need to devise a new strat- and thereby survive is the need be a huge support. hotels and will only promote effects of any undesirable event. egy, innovate and evolve, to suit of the hour. The importance of those that have supported us So when the dust settled in from new business situations and a cash reserve is a learning. Julia Simpson and the clients during the first the first wave, we not only pre- President & CEO, WTTC travel patterns. phase of the pandemic. One thing pared ourselves but also advised I am confident about is that and motivated our stakeholders Executive Committee Mem- after two years when there is to be prepared for many such ber of International Airlines herd immunity, travel will boom upcoming uncertainties. Another Group (IAG). Simpson brings and will be the best business key learning has been that an with her extensive experience to be in. Until then, we must individual or a business for that of the travel & tourism sector, simply cut costs, multitask and matter, has the ability to play having served on the boards hang in there. For those who many different important roles of British Airways, Iberia rather than focusing all energies Debajit Borah cannot sustain these times will President, Tour Operators and most recently as Chief have an option of closing tem- Ranjeet Das on any single piece. As an organ- Association of Assam (TOAA) of Staff at International porarily for two years and then Immediate Past President and isation, we consistently invest in Director, Brahmaputra Cruise Airlines Group. Pradeep Saboo Adviser, Tour Operators skill development. Partner, Guideline Travels restart afresh. Association of Assam (TOAA) Inputs by Hazel Jain We are paying for being so lax With the number of COVID cases and deaths rising every day, Goa could be looking at another lockdown. But Serafino Cota, President, Small & Medium Hotels Associations, says that the state government along with the travel trade brought this problem upon themselves.

Hazel Jain 10 as COVID numbers surge, Lapse of judgement we are its stakeholders so we would like to know from the with a possibility of extending Cota is also upset that many have to take the responsibility government how much GST he state had become it further. people had been coming to of keeping our citizens safe. did it earn through room a holiday paradise – Goa not just to holiday but The government was looking occupancies and on alcohol Tan escape for who- He believes that Goa hotels to spend their quarantine at it as business. But it could as far as table service in bars ever wanted to get away from would have done better busi- days after testing positive. not achieve the quality of tour- and restaurants is concerned. the boredom of cities. But Goa ness, if not the same, had all ists who will pay GST and taxes. I bet you nothing! The govern- is now paying for the swift the stakeholders asked tourists “Their thought process was bet- ment should realise that there business it did through ris- for COVID-negative certifi- ter to have COVID in Goa than is no revenue; it is just ad- ing COVID cases and deaths. Serafino Cota cates. “In fact, we would have anywhere else. Moreover, all ditional burden on the state,” President, Small & Medium Not one to mince words, Hotels Associations received better and high-value our offshore casinos have also Opening Cota says. Serafino Cota, President, tourists. Goa offered this as a been responsible for spreading Small & Medium Hotels As- selling point –not asking for the infection. The Goa govern- up the state to all He suggests that Goa needs sociations, says that just until rude, but I have been saying certificates. I would argue with ment allowed them to remain a change of image. “We need a month ago, some hotels had this for some time – opening my CM that Goa asking for open even though they were and sundry was to make it a ‘safe’ destination started doing good business. up the state to all and sundry COVID health certificates could crowded and most of their staff very expensive at least by December 2021. will be very expensive for us. have been a better selling got it. I have voiced my concern After making it safe, we need “Then all of a sudden, cases And we are now paying for point. This would have ensured about this, requesting the gov- for us; we are to promote it as a ‘Safe’ des- started increasing in Goa it. We were allowing people that Goa is a ‘Safe Destination’ ernment to at least vaccinate tination, ask tourists to book which has led to a complete to enter Goa even without a and the people who are com- the casino staff on priority. But now paying for it only registered hotels so that shutdown. To be honest, COVID-negative certificate nor ing in will also be safe. So they nothing has been done so far. every case can be tracked some of my colleagues were checking them at any of the en- know that no one with COVID The virus is spreading like wild- and traced, and ramp up our happy with the little business try points – whether airports, or COVID symptoms will be fire in Goa,” he says worriedly. Most of them were staying in vaccination drive. Everything they were starting to get. But roads or railways. We got allowed to enter the state. If rented places – second homes needs to be controlled – from that was bad for Goa and its greedy for business,” he says. these measures were in place, “I apologise to fellow Goans – in the disorganised sector. entry points to hotels. That is people, and Goa should not al- The Goa government imposed Goa would have had a better and the trade. This problem It didn’t benefit the industry the only way safe tourism can low that. I don’t want to sound additional restrictions till May image today,” Cota adds. came through tourism and nor the state government. I start,” Cota adds. 6 TravTalk May 2nd Fortnight issue 2021 states

High-value travellers, App-based taxis for Goa Umrah segment from India target audience Two trade bodies – one a state-wide travel association and the other a regional hospitality for AlUla association – have voiced their support for App-based taxi operators in Goa which they think will Indian nationals in benefit the end-travellers by way of cheaper rates and better service to begin with. transit through a French airport require airport transit visa Hazel Jain cheaper rates as against the ex- for both the domestic as well isting taxi operators who charge as international tourists. We Minister Patel says howing support for exorbitant fares to tourists. The also suggest that the state gov- post-COVID, MOT will travellers to Goa, industry is of the opinion that ernment implement the use of focus on promoting Stwo trade bodies are lopsided trade practices are digital meters on all local taxis. offbeat destinations advocating that the state per- detrimental to progress and This will bring transparency, mits app-based taxi operators. discourage tourism in the state. and offer convenient and reli- Assam’s Rupsi Currently, only Goa Miles, the able taxi services.” Airport becomes state’s local app-based taxi The HRAWI has stated that operational, flybig is service, is operating in the Sherry Bhatia Nilesh Shah the local taxi operators’ de- Nilesh Shah, President, Travel President, HRAWI President, TTAG first airline to land state which is facing huge pro- mands are unreasonable and & Tourism Association of Goa tests from the local taxi lobby. uncompetitive while viable and (TTAG), has also spoken on Passengers to Mumbai transparent app-based options the benefits of digitisation. from 7 states need The Hotel & Restaurant As- Going online are available. He says, “Going online is the RT-PCR negative report sociation of Western India These need of the hour and that’s Vistara announces (HRAWI) as well as Travel & operators is the need of Sherry Bhatia, President, what these App-based aggre- weekly flights to Tokyo Tourism Association of Goa HRAWI, says, “App based cab gators bring to the table. Since (TTAG) have shown their sup- provide services the hour; that’s operators including Ola, Uber, the launch of Goa Miles, the from June 16 port for this. This comes on the what these and Goa Miles offer tourists the industry has received posi- Goa prohibits back of the ongoing taxi opera- at reasonable choice of their ride. These op- tive reviews from tourists with inter-state movement tors’ strike in the state against fares to tourists aggregators bring erators provide decent services regards to the transparency, of tourists, provides Goa Miles. to the table at reasonable fares to the local service, pricing and discipline exceptions to rule and commuters commuters as well as tourists, of the App-based aggrega- The HRAWI has submitted a and hence should be allowed to tor. This has not only brought 2023 is when representation to the Chief Min- operate. These taxi services are transparency and discipline in international tourism will ister Pramod Sawant and to ernment to allow app-based taxi industry. The hospitality industry operating in almost every state the taxi business but most im- resume in India: IHCL the Tourism Minister Manohar service aggregators to operate has expressed that app-based in the country but not in Goa portantly restored trust in Goan Ajgaonkar requesting the gov- in the interest of tourists and the taxis provide good services at which is a huge inconvenience taxi drivers.” Desire to travel persists 'We are trying to help'

Contd from page 1 destination perspective,” the Contd from page 1 COVID task force say we have a solid business CEO continues, “India has now register themselves with Bhatia also shared that some hotel footprint across India. been more prevalent in dis- the government and needs to of the TAAI office bearers are That footprint is growing and playing the cultural side of be a member of any national now part of a COVID task yes, the right strategy is to mix the country. From a business recognised association.” force set up as part of FAITH, business and leisure, more so perspective, India, on a global along with other associations at the moment when there is stage, has really come to the Air India woes and they are working towards limited global business travel fore and that is not going to Answering questions on Air plasma donations, oxygen and leisure is expected to re- go away. So the two elements India issues, Bhatia added concentrators, etc that may be Jay Bhatia turn faster than the business globe will surge. “Accor has a combined together allow that the TAAI team is aware Vice President, TAAI required by members. There segment. It is a focus for us number of lifestyle brands. That you to look at a very broad of the situation. “We com- will be a centralised team and we will continue to grow is where the new customer is pletely accept and acknowl- the luxury segment.” heading, but that is not to say edge the challenges members resolve matters with Air India that other segments won’t con- are facing with Air India. We bookings multiple times and He adds that when it comes to tinue to be growth segments. have taken up the matter has sought an online appoint- boutique properties, as mar- The world is growing, people The future for with Air India multiple times ment directly with the PM. kets mature and as customers are looking for something dif- Accor in and we are not stopping. But Even if it’s after 15-20 days, look to diversify their stay and ferent,” Willis shares. they don’t understand. The we want the Air India issue to increasingly seek experiences, India looks same has been highlighted to be resolved once and for all. demand for boutique properties “If you look at the last 10 MoCA. The association has They have been taking travel and lifestyle hotels across the years of India from a leisure particularly bright also written to MoCA to help agents for granted for a very long time,” he explained. that will be available to assist Business travel: Slow to recover spectrum of hotel brand op- Adding to this, Mayal said, with this. Sharing her perspec- “This is one element of the future that still remains quite unclear. With portunities for growth in the TAAI has “We were the first people to tive on the role of testing for different restrictions to travel and organisations across the globe hav- country, which also stimu- get appointments with Air India safe travel, Mayal said, “Our ing been negatively impacted financially over the last 12 months, in- lates the visibility of a brand written to but now associations are not regional chapters have been ternational business travel will be slow to return. If you see a location elsewhere and encourages MoCA to help even getting any meetings with requesting their respective like India, you can see that there was demand for business interac- people to recognise the brand them. I had made a request to states for lowering the rate for tions face to face. Unfortunately, that has stopped now because of the when they are outside India. resolve matters consider all our points in my RT-PCR tests wherever possi- impact of the pandemic, but once the country gets a hold of the situ- So, it’s vital for Accor to con- with Air India last meeting with them. We ble. At a lot of airports also, we ation with the vaccination programme, etc., you will see that segment tinue to grow its footprint in continue to talk to them. The managed to bring it down to of business returning. Zoom and Teams are wonderful platforms, the country and that is abso- bookings new Secretary is too new right `600-700. However, we must but, as always, nothing is going to replace meeting face to face. The lutely what we are doing. The now. We need to just continue remember that TAAI is not into global desire to travel will never go away,” says Wills. future for Accor in India looks multiple times our talks with Air India which business, we are only there to particularly bright.” we will do.” help people.” TRENDS may 2nd Fortnight issue 2021 TravTalk 7 Sustainable tourism is viable WTTC and faculty and scientists of the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health have released two case studies on sustainability leadership by The Travel Corporation (TTC) and Intrepid Travel. This collaboration has encouraged the sharing of best practices and has supported sustainability as a core strategic priority to ensure the viability of the sector.

TT Bureau operation and support of one another’s efforts to address How 'make travel matter' experiences Expertsspeak TTC and Harvard the topic. Sustainability is now a grow- TH Chan School of contribute to the SDGs ing business priority, with WPublic Health have a The Travel Corporation businesses expected to de- long history of collaboration, Using sustainable development NO POVERTY carbonise and adapt for the working towards a more sus- goals to drive strategy The experience contributes to ending poverty in all its forms, everywhere future. The COVID-19 crisis tainable future for travel and The Travel Corporation’s (TTC) has elevated the need for ac- tourism. Together, their work case study focusses on the QUALITY EDUCATION tion on sustainability issues. can help raise awareness, shift group’s efforts to ‘make travel The climate crisis is a risk mindsets, and enact systemic matter’ and explores the way in The experience contributes to ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education that no business can afford change. Similarly, The Travel which TTC has linked their sus- to disregard, so we must Corporation and Intrepid Travel tainability strategy, as well as GENDER EQUALITY continue to drive this mes- have a mutual understanding travel experiences directly to the The experience is helping to achieve gender equality and empowerment of women and girls sage forward in our sector. that sustainability is a shared United Nations Sustainable De- Gloria Guevara CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION Incumbent President & CEO, WTTC Ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and/or sanitation for all This is an important collab- AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY oration where sustainability, The experience is contributing to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all public health and business come together to advance REDUCED INEQUALITIES research-led practice in the travel and tourism sector. The experience is addressing and/or reducing inequalities within the country Given the importance of the travel and tourism sec- SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES tor for people, planet and Educates guests on the sustainability and resiliency of community shared prosperity, aca- demic inquiry in the field RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION is central to inclusive and sustainable growth. Educates guests on sustainable consumption and production challenge and have champi- velopment Goals. It champions Dr. Wendy Purcell Lead Researcher for the cases oned sustainability for many sustainable travel through the CLIMATE ACTION Harvard TH Chan School years. The two believe it is setting of measurable sustain- of Public Health best addressed through co- ability goals, and ensures they are Educates guests on the climate crisis and takes action to address its impacts LIFE BELOW WATER The Travel Corporation: Idea in brief I have a deep respect for Contributes to the conservation and sustainable use of marine ecosystems Intrepid’s long-standing v The Travel Corporation (TTC) embarked on its journey to efforts to integrate sustain- integrate sustainability into the business with the launch LIFE ON LAND ability into their business of its not-for-profit foundation, the TreadRight Foundation, Educates guests on the importance of natural ecosystems, wildlife conservation and believe that our col- in 2008. laboration with one another v With leadership from TreadRight, TTC adopted a strategic on the matter is indicative position on key issues including single use plastics, animal achieved through an integrated potential gaps in the expression achieve its sustainability goals of the fact that we will welfare and climate change. business function approach. of sustainability across the group, are fully engrained in the way achieve much more as a v In 2018, TreadRight and TTC’s sustainability efforts were The strategy aims to close any ensuring the group’s efforts to TTC brands operate and how the sector than as potential brought together under the banner ‘Make Travel Matter’, which group supports its efforts through competitors when it comes was adopted by the groups 40 award winning travel brands. its non-profit foundation, Tread- to truly addressing our in- Intrepid Travel: Idea in brief Right, which the group funds en- v In 2020, TTC released its sustainability plan ‘How We Tread dustry’s footprint. v Identifying as a B Corporation (B Corp) has helped Intrepid Travel tirely from its own profits. Right’ that presents 11 smart sustainability goals aligned with Brett Tollman the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. guide the business to meet the highest standards of verified so- Chief Executive Officer Intrepid Travel v The strategy closes any potential gaps in the expression of sus- cial and environmental performance, public transparency and The Travel Corporation Certified B Corporation tainability across the group, ensuring it is now fully engrained legal accountability. Intrepid Travel’s case study show- in the way TTC brands operate and how the group employs its v The ‘B’ standing for ‘beneficial’, a B Corp is a defined business classification that balances purpose and profit. cases its status as the world’s philanthropic efforts through its TreadRight Foundation. Our industry does not exist Becoming a certified B Corp is helping the company to be bet- largest certified travel B Corpora- without thriving communi- ter and do better – integrating the values, culture, processes tion (B Corp). Intrepid’s certified ties and a healthy planet, WTTC’s work in the area of Sustainable and high standards put in place by its founders and leaders at B Corp status entailed external, and we all have a role to all levels. independent assessment of its Growth focuses on eight key areas play in influencing a more v Intrepid’s certified B Corp status entailed external, inde- interactions with its workers, cus- v tomers, community and the envi- equitable future. We are Inclusion, Diversity & Social Impact pendent assessment of its interactions with its workers, ronment. The B Corp status is not proud to stand alongside v Climate & Environment Action customers, community and the environment. The B Corp specific for the travel sector, rather TTC to help advance the v Sustainable Travel & Tourism Partners status is not specific for the travel sector; rather it brings it brings Intrepid alongside global sustainability agenda and v Sustainability Reporting Intrepid alongside global brands across all sectors. organisations across all sectors, create positive change. v Destination Stewardship v In setting out on its own journey towards B Corp status in 2015, including leading brands such as v Future of Work Intrepid adopted a set of external pressures and standards that James Thornton Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s, and Chief Executive Officer v Illegal Wildlife Trade encourage the company to continue working towards its social is an example in the travel and Intrepid Travel v Human Trafficking and sustainability goals. tourism sector. 8 TravTalk May 2nd Fortnight issue 2021 AGENTS Tourist guides: Collateral damage Tapan Kumar Mishra, National Tourism Awardee for Best Tourist Guide (Odisha), discusses the plight of tourist guides across India who have no work since March 2020. He questions if the Ministry of Tourism is willing to lose the pool of expert tourist guides as collateral damage due to the pandemic?

Hazel Jain schemes, no unemployment taxis.“We have received no level – Regional Level Guides of different state governments). allowance, no on-the-job life help either from the Central (trained and licenced by the There are approximately 3,200 ourist guides are insurance – nothing.” Government or from state gov- Ministry of Tourism), State Lev- Regional Level Guides working among the worst- ernments except one or two. el Guides (trained and licenced for five Zones (North, South, Thit in the tourism Mishra adds that while Many experienced tour guides by different state governments), East, West, and North-East of sector by this pandemic with tourism was heading towards are on the verge of changing Monument Guides deployed India) and 12,000 guides in museums, monuments and normalcy in the early weeks of their profession. At this rate, at certain monuments (trained total, including State Guides, attractions completely closed. December 2020, it lasted only the Ministry of Tourism will Monuments Guides of ASI and Corroborating this statement is for about three months. “Even lose a pool of experts unless Forest or Nature Guides. Tapan Kumar Mishra, National though there was little move- Tapan Kumar Mishra we are provided a retention fee Tourism Awardee for Best Tour- ment of western tourists, there National Tourism Awardee for of atleast `20,000 per month, Mishra also points out that nor- Best Tourist Guide (Odisha) Mere ist Guide (Odisha). He says, were a few domestic tourists depending on the work experi- mally licences of Regional Level “Guides are employed season- who were on move and we ence,” Mishra adds. words won't Guides certified by the Ministry ally and are not covered by any were expecting more footfalls were possible, why did the gov- of Tourism, are renewed for social security schemes of the as lockdown opened up. But the ernment think that tourist mon- He feels that tour guides are the help them three years but since the last government. They (regional- government decided to close all uments would be hotspots?” backbone of the tourism indus- unless it is two years, it is being renewed level tourist guides) are issued tourist monuments. They were he questions. try and they need to be sup- only for six months forcing licences only after they agree open in December 2020 for ported either by retention fee, supported by them indirectly to go for ‘Tour- with the Ministry's condition limited tourists but they closed Guides changing professions collateral-free loan or through ist Facilitator Course’ to retain of not doing any other job and them again from March 2021 Another issue is the threat of PMEGP Scheme. “Mere words financial means their licence. “This is a demo- now they have no other source onwards. Meanwhile the doors de-licencing which is like the won't help them unless it is tion for them to ‘Tourist Facilita- of income. They are completely of Lord Jagannath Temple in Sword of Damocles. Mean- supported by financial means,” tors’ from the globally-accepted empty-handed since March Puri were wide open for pil- while, many tour guides have Mishra insists. and licenced by Archaeologi- ‘Tourist Guides’. It's like forcing 2020 and will have to starve. grims, even if they hardly hire changed their profession and cal Survey of India), Forest or a civil engineer with vast pro- Tourist guides are not cov- tour guides. Why? When po- are venturing into F&B, ag- There are various types of Nature Guides (trained and fessional experience to act as ered under any social security litical rallies and Kumbh Mela riculture, and even driving guides at the government licenced by Forest Department a Civil Contractor,” he says. Greater networking at FITUR FITUR 2021, that will run from from May 19 to 23, shows promise and hope of the return of travel and business of travel to the region. This year it also has a new addition - LiveConnect - an AI-powered technolgy that will form the framework of professional and commercial relationships that will take place during FITUR.

TT Bureau of professional and com- FITUR will be one of the first mercial relationships that will major international mobility ex- he Madrid Re- take place during the FITUR. periences, and we’ll be focus- gion will be the ing on tourism recovery. It will TFITUR 2021 Tour- Sharing how FITUR will be also address various cross- ist Destination Partner at this different from the last year, cutting issues such as digital special edition, the 41st. Its María Valcarce, Director, FI- transition and innovation, other theme is ‘Tourism is Back’. TUR, said it will be the first issues related to sustainable This is an excellent oppor- fair that brings the tourism development, and all the in- María Valcarce tunity for the Madrid Region Director, FITUR industry together in person dustry verticals represented to position itself once again again after the pandemic. “As as a world leader and pre- a complement to in-person ferred tourist destination The LiveConnect platform, participation, the FITUR Live- ing there. Two Indian states We hope to move forward in for international travellers. operational from May 5 to Connect online platform will have reservations still pend- this direction because cultural June, is developed with arti- allow us to extend FITUR’s ing final confirmation, but we events tourism is a significant This year, FITUR LiveCon- ficial intelligence technology, reach in time and place be- hope that they’ll be able to market driver, one that should nect platform is the new ad- will offer all professionals in yond the event days. On a be with us in the end. India’s be represented at FITUR.” dition to the show and will the sector the opportunity physical level, logically, FITUR at the different MICE tourism presence at our Fair kept showcase an opportunity to to be connected and to have isn’t going to reach the record- sections, like health, film, growing in recent years and The Madrid Region at FITUR create commercial network- an extra special content, breaking scale it achieved in cultural, language, and more. it’s a very popular destina- 2021 will present its new ing and to strengthen the in- with high-interest program- 2020. Still, we hope it will be Reminiscing India’s participa- tion for Spanish travellers brand image and new concept teraction with the international ming and a contact program a very professional edition tion in FITUR over the years, and tourism fans worldwide.” as an international tourism tourist community, beyond aimed at a wide expansion. that will contribute to tour- Valcarce said that India’s region - Greater Madrid. With the closing dates of FITUR. It will form the framework ism’s relaunch," she says. such a great and wonderful Talking about innovation in the this new name, international country and has always been FITUR festivals this year, she tourists will be able to grasp a major participant at FITUR. said, “We’ve expanded the the idea of what the Madrid Re- An Amex survey reveals that 69% of respondents want to choose an airline or a hotel that “There’s a lot of uncertainty Festivals section to include gion is clearly and that its hos- values diversity and inclusion, and whose employees reflect a diverse customer base. at the moment about India’s other cultural events in ad- pitable geographical context Travellers expect the brands they support to align with their values. participation because of the dition to the music festivals, has a surprising and extensive way the pandemic is evolv- which were its initial focus. wealth of heritage. technology may 2nd Fortnight issue 2021 TravTalk 9 Technology in a pandemic Creativity and ingenuity can often shine through when we least expect it. Despite the turmoil that our industry has been witnessing, we are seeing many start-ups being conceived and often take centre-stage. Can we learn a few tricks of the trade from them? This is part two of the start-up series.

Hazel Jain & Manas Dwivedi StreetGooser Tech Carvaa Travelers

What is it? What is it? A new entrant in cloud-based hotel management software domain, StreetGooser focuses on small to It is a caravan rental start-up based out of Delhi. It was launched in October last year with an aim to offer mid-sized properties to provide them with technology that won't break their banks. Most tech provid- comfortable travel experience within the country at an affordable price. The plan was to introduce these ers focus on big hotels and may have features smaller hotels don't need. So it tweaks its technology caravans in March 2020 but it is kept on hold due to the pandemic. The venture is a brainchild of four based on the clients’ needs. It is a one-stop shop that integrates several platforms into the umbrella. friends. Their caravans are equipped with all the essentials including a well-stocked kitchenette, wash- room, camping tents, a sofa-cum-bed, and a bunk bed. Bookings can be made for anywhere in India at a nominal additional charge. ‘Travellers are changing their planning & execution’ How important is technology for the tourism sector today? Technology has become the integral part of our life and in the present world ‘Caravaning needn’t be a luxury product’ technology has reframed the way we think, communicate and approach. What was the idea behind starting this? This has also influenced the tourism business. There is a tremendous As per an analysis we did in terms of market demand for Caravans change in planning and execution of travel concepts by travellers who before the pandemic and once the Unlock phase started, we saw have adopted technology and made travel easier and more convenient. a good increase in the number of people wanting to rent a Cara- van. However, in this current phase, things have come to a standstill. What challenges did you face while procuring funding? There is confusion about which places to visit and the restrictions in place. Binitha Sreejith There were no such major challenges to procure funds. Street- But once the pandemic situation gets better, we suppose things will get Business Development Head Gooser is a tech firm which has unique concepts that are going to be back on track. StreetGooser Tech a next level trend-setter in the travel and tourism industry. This distinc- Jigyasu Joshi tive feature has always attracted our investors. Though the pandem- What about the cost structure or funding for this? Co-Founder, Carvaa Travelers ic had made a difference in the scenario, we still can find the ray of hope. So those people who After months of research, we found out that building a caravan is not so always foresee the future trends in the travel market have shown interest and are ready to invest. costly and it doesn’t have to be in the luxury segment. Travelling in a caravan is the most sustain- able way of travelling. Anyway, while we were hesitant as to how people would receive it, to our How does your technology help your clients? surprise, there was an overwhelming response to caravans and the caravanning culture in general. We tweak our technology based on the clients’ needs. The centralised dashboard offers a state- of-the-art, built-in front-desk management system, channel manager, POS functions, housekeeping What are your plans going forward? supervision, rate shopper, reputation management, website builder, payment gateway, booking engine, Ours is not an asset-light model. We’re currently operating with two caravans and both of them have reports, analytics and more. Accommodation providers can manage multiple properties, operations, been designed by us. In the coming few months, we will set up our own manufacturing unit wherein we business relations, guests, travel agents and corporate clients from anywhere 24X7. will be making caravans for sale. We are currently looking to potential investors for the same.

zingbus Rajasthan Studio What is it? What is it? Established in May 2019, zingbus is an intercity bus aggregator and has secured an undisclosed pre- With over 250 artists, this start-up is providing an experiential art platform to art lovers from around the Series A investment from Venture Catalysts, Titan Capital, AdvantEdge founders and Arora Ventures. It world. Rajasthan Studio is a start-up focused on offering personalised, hands-on, long-forgotten art ex- has expanded its services in West India, Maharashtra and Gujarat. With extended trip designs and hub periences specially curated by master artists of Rajasthan at their workstations. Launched in 2018, it is and spoke models, zingbus model offers a much higher number of connections with a smaller fleet. a one-stop place for tourists looking to experience Indian art forms. It has another vertical, a non-profit, free-for-all artists platform called ‘The Circle’, which is now virtual due to the pandemic. ‘We have specially-designed routes’ What is your differentiating factor? As this network expands, the customer gets more options and flexibility ‘We want to build a global community of artists’ which in turn drives direct sales and builds a strong differentiator for an How did you use technology during the pandemic? operator looking for a wider network and connections. zingbus has built The pandemic led us to take our operations online, and it has now grown tools for audits, boarding and demand management. We run buses on to over 2,500 artists from around the world. The focus is to give artists a specially designed routes which enables them to increase the utilisation free-flowing platform for learning and networking. Through Instagram Live, of assets and cater to more travellers per bus. Despite the travel industry we made sure to connect our followers with the ones who are making an severely impacted due to the pandemic, zingbus has emerged better and impact in their fields. We also introduced curated virtual art experiences for leaner and has helped struggling traditional fleet owners in coping with Prashant Kumar corporates and individuals. We also organised live performances on our Founder & CEO, zingbus YouTube channel on pay-as-you-like models remunerated directly to artists the operational challenges with minimum manpower investment. With 10 Kartik Gaggar mn daily intercity bus rides in India, the market is US$15 bn in size and is via online payment channels. Founder and CEO, Rajasthan Studio growing at 18% CAGR. About 25% of this market is semi deluxe, air-conditioned buses. In what way has the lockdown opened new doors for you? How important is technology for you and the tourism sector at large? With our virtual platform, Rajasthan Studio has been able to offer online art experiences globally, not just Our technology gives it a much better online presence as compared to traditional bus operators, and also in India. In June, we held a one-of-its-kind virtual art experience festival, and since July 2020, the growth reaches the end-customers digitally in a more effective manner. Travellers can book a zingbus to their in terms of the number of artists, the reach, and all other KPIs have been 2x on a month-on-month basis. next destination through our app or via our w ebsite. Alternatively, users can also book through all major What are your plans going forward? OTAs or through 1000+ offline sales partners. When tourism fully opens up, we aim to curate art experiences in other states too.The start-up is Your plans for the next couple of years? completely bootstrapped as of now. We are working on a long-term plan.With Rajasthan Studio, I had a In the next three years, zingbus plans to run 2,500 buses across all major corridors in India. We have 10-year vision, but the pandemic has impacted it greatly because it has just taken away two good years extended our services in West India and plan to gradually enter South India. to make it a model that is investment-pitch ready.

12 TravTalk may 2nd Fortnight issue 2021 agents An agent of change Assam-based Mitali G Dutta, Founder of Food Sutra by Mitali, has become an agent of change by empowering the tribal women of the state to be an intrinsic part of its culinary tourism.

Hazel Jain a profitable business. So these This idea of empowering tribal women are helping tour- locals of rural areas through itali G Dutta is an ists experience the magic of a sustainable model had been entrepreneur based local cuisines,” she explains. considerably appraised by ce- Min Guwahati who em- lebrity chefs, renowned food powers women both in rural A two-way street and urban areas of the state The bond she shares with her through extensive workshops culture and region reflects in and training in order to be inde- her culinary sessions. Her Mitali G Dutta Tour pendent and earn a livelihood Founder, Food Sutra by Mitali training sessions are not only through cooking. She was se- confined to her studio but ex- operators are lected by the Ministry of Skill tend to the rural areas. She Development & Entrepreneur- of ex-poachers into the main- believes that people in the key players ship, Government of India, for stream so that they can earn rural areas can also be eco- uted to the tourism sector but The trade can do their bit Women's Day Recognition on a respectable living. Dutta’s nomically empowered through who can design also economically aided the Urging tour operators to also March 8, 2021, along with oth- focus is also on promoting their culinary skills. So to give itineraries more livelihood of the local tribes. be a part of this, she says, er women entrepreneurs from authentic dishes of the various shape to her belief and to Sharing her views on why “They can actually play an im- different parts of India. She has communities in Assam as it is provide an alternative source ethically and community-based tourism portant role. They are the key earlier worked for travel brands without any fusion. “Assam is of livelihood to the rural com- has become important today, players who can design their like SOTC. a diverse and colourful state munities, she curated ‘FSM responsibly especially for a destination itineraries more ethically and with various tribes and com- Food Trails’ which are culinary like India, Dutta says, “With responsibly. Marketing strate- Providing livelihood in the munities with their ethnic food tours with training and din- the increasing adverse impact gies adopted by them should remotest areas of Assam and local recipes. My aim is to ing concepts. In these tours, bloggers and travel writers of mass tourism, it is impor- be aligned with the needs of through a sustainable business revive and preserve the tradi- the rural women share differ- from India and abroad. ‘Manas tant for destinations such as the destination. Ultimately, re- where no other industry ex- tion and food culture of our ent traditional recipes of local Spring Festival’ is one such India to bring more focus on sponsible awareness will lead ists is no easy task. She also ancestors and promote them in cuisines with tourists and later noteworthy culinary event. sustainability and community- to meaningful experiences,” helps in getting the families such a way so that it becomes serve the same to them. This event not only contrib- based tourism.” she says.

A salute to the fearless Bookings at shorter notice Contd from page 1 Relaxed restrictions and vaccination island of Mykonos leading the v The correlation between the announcement of relaxed travel re- list, with summer bookings strictions and bookings is also dramatically demonstrated by currently standing at 54.9 flight tickets issued from the USA to Iceland. On March 26, its per cent of what they were government announced that all vaccinated travellers would be at the equivalent point, pre- exempt from entry restrictions and the level of issued tickets pandemic. It is followed by the soared to 158 per cent of what they were during the equivalent Spanish island, Ibiza, where week in 2019. bookings are at 49.2 per cent. v The correlation between vaccination rates and outbound travel is The next eight destinations in or- strong, as consumers gain confidence. Bookings to Europe from der of resilience are Chania (GR) Israel, which has vaccinated over 60 per cent of its population, Indian carrier SpiceJet operated a special charter flight on May 11 to fly some fearless warriors who have put their lives 48.9per cent, Thira (GR) 48.1per are currently at 63 per cent of 2019 levels and bookings from the on the line – a team of nurses – from Kochi to Jeddah. The airline’s crew also presented them with a token of gratitude UK, which has vaccinated over 52 per cent, are at 32 per cent of for their selfless service. cent, Kerkyra (GR) 47.5per cent, Thessaloniki (GR) 43.7per cent, 2019 levels. Palma de Mallorca (ES) 41.2per cent, Heraklion (GR) 36.6per cent, Athens (GR) 33.2per cent cinations appear to hold the being rewarded by strong Cross Hotels’ third in Pattaya and Faro (PT) 32.8per cent. key to reviving international surges in flight bookings. We travel, as countries that make are seeing a revival of con- Olivier Ponti, VP Insights, clear promises to welcome fidence in outbound travel ForwardKeys, says, “Vac- vaccinated travellers are from countries where there has been a successful roll- Confirmed tickets to travel between July and out of COVID-19 vaccines. September 2021 vs 2019; % of 2019 levels 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 120% Furthermore, if restrictions are eased in both origin mar- Greece +12% kets and destinations, there Cyprus are grounds for further opti- Spain Malta mism because there is strong Croatia pent-up demand and, during Portugal the pandemic, people have Italy shown themselves willing Cross Hotels & Resorts has signed a significant hotel management agreement with Kasetsinn Co to open Cross Pattaya Poland to make bookings at signifi- Phratamnak. This will be the first property after their luxury brand renaming from X2 to Cross. The 78-key hotel is set France cantly shorter notice than they to open in August 2021. Denmark 2019 Levels used to.” GUESTCOLUMN may 2nd Fortnight issue 2021 TravTalk 13

that kept me comfortable in a Dhirwani, Anoop Kumar, Nis- duplex lagoon villa facing the hank Syal, Komal Jani and Del- ocean with dolphins saying na Madon – have now become hello to me for a month. They like a close-knit family. 40 days in Maldives customised everything to our needs and did a spectacular A word of advice Anshu Tejuja, MD, Ashoka Dream Holidays, was on a trip in the Maldives job – they provided us with My virtual exercise classes when something unexpected happened and she had to be quarantined for five everything we asked for. The came to my rescue. I strongly doctor came to visit us every recommend travel insurance weeks on the island. This is her story in her own words. day to make sure your vitals for any travel during CO- VID times because if you test was quarantined on 27 and we all had to undergo positive or anyone around you an island like Rob- COVID tests. After three days, tests positive, you will need to Iinson Crusoe from two more members of the be isolated. A good insurance March 20 to April 25, 2021, but group tested positive. On the cover and a medicine kit is lived it up like a COVID warrior. seventh day, two more people very important to carry while This is a narrative about my tested positive. And then travelling. No hotel or hospi- five weeks of quarantine expe- on day 15 – which was my tal will incur your expenses, rience in the Maldives recently. last day of being quarantined hence a COVID insurance I know Maldives is a beautiful – my results also came back policy is an absolute must. country to be quarantined in. positive. In short, eight out I follow a healthy diet and do But every day was tough. of nine got infected while on yoga regularly which I think the trip. helped me a lot too. My advice My one-week familiarisation to everyone – follow the rules, trip to the Maldives with eight be calm and be patient. other travel agents from Mum- Initially, before I tested positive, tection Agency) in Maldives has were good. Besides family, bai turned into a five-week ex- No hotel or there was a lot of frustration laid down these rules for every- I did not lack anything while perience! We were supposed and anger. Imagine one month body’s safety and I am thankful there. The hotel was kind to return to Mumbai on March hospital will incur of complete isolation in a room for that. If we were allowed to enough to not charge us for all 27. We were all packed and your expenses, with no housekeeping! Initially, leave without the mandatory iso- these days and we paid only ready to fly back when we we thought the rules were too lation, I would have infected my for our PCR tests. Fellow travel were informed by the hotel hence a COVID strict. But it started to make family and so many other people agent Manjula Godia, my room that one agent tested positive. sense to me why it is pertinent on the way back. We would have partner and an angel who was As per the rules in Maldives, insurance to have them. The 15-day iso- caused so much damage. my support through all those the rest of us too had to be policy is an lation / incubation period now tough days; we got through it Anshu Tejuja quarantined for 14 nights, makes complete sense to me Gratitude together. All members of the MD, Ashoka Dream Holidays which is 15 days. So we all absolute must because anyone can catch it I am thankful to the entire team familiarisation group –Sap- (Views expressed are the author’s own. went into isolation on March within 14 days. HPA (Health Pro- at Intercontinental Maldives neal Rao, Ajay Chhabria, Sumit The publication may or may not subscribe to them.)

What should hotels focus on right now? The focus has to be on forging the right partnerships to push Change is afoot for M!CE M!CE for hotels in India today. We are looking at new ideas Highlighting a significant shift in the nature of M!CE business,Rohit Chopra, Regional and concepts for our hotels Director, Sales & Distribution, Accor India & South Asia, says that business associated to such as Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Novotel weddings, social events and sports has replaced corporate M!CE, incentives and charters. Hyderabad Airport, Pullman

Hazel Jain radic demand in segments hat is your perspec- like weddings and sports, tive on M!CE seg- movement in industries such Wment opening up? Do as pharmaceuticals, elec- you see corporates booking tronics, automobile, sports, for this year? manufacturing, movie produc- The M!CE industry almost came tion houses and white goods to a standstill in 2020 leading to should witness a faster rebound a big dent in the structure, func- Rohit Chopra Q3 onwards. Our focus has Regional Director, Sales and tioning and finances of many Distribution, Accor India, S. Asia remained on hygiene and safety businesses. Since the lock- assurance, while also keep- downs have been lifted, we have ing in check all local govern- witnessed a significant shift in While we did see a drastic in- ment norms. Trust is the new the nature of M!CE business. crease in demand for M!CE in Business associated to wed- February 2021, in the last two currency, and our endeavour will be driving M!CE revenues. New Delhi Aerocity and Sofitel dings, social events and sports months we have also witnessed is to continue winning our For India, we have been re- Mumbai BKC. Their expansive has replaced corporate M!CE, an increase in cancellation or Business guests’ confidence. ceiving some queries from space will help us continue to incentives and charters, which rescheduling because of the corporates for 100-200 pax adapt and provide experiences used to be demand generators escalation in COVID-19 cases. travel and M!CE Have your corporate clients from Q3 onwards. But they are at various levels for all our in 2019. To encourage demand, Business travel and M!CE will will be extremely already planned for this year? also keeping a keen watch on guests. We have also collabo- one of the key factors in 2021 be extremely slow, we can ex- We are confident that compa- the currently developing CO- rated with Microsoft to launch will be flexibility on commer- pect a revival closer to the festi- slow, we can nies would prefer in-person and VID-19 situation in the country. ALL CONNECT, a new hybrid cial terms & conditions, given val season, in October, depend- socially distant meetings and meetings concept supported by that these are unique times. ing on cases and vaccination. expect a revival discussions for business trans- We have been observing queries Microsoft Teams. This will en- Moreover, as international travel closer to the actions rather than conducting for Q4 2021 for safer, long-haul able corporate customers and restrictions continue, domestic What segment of M!CE do you events virtually. Moreover, as destinations, and can expect meeting planners to combine business will be driving M!CE think is opening first and why? festival season international travel restrictions similar interest for shorter haul physical in-hotel meetings with revenues for the near future. While we can expect spo- continue, domestic business destinations from Q3 2021. virtual interactions. 14 TravTalk May 2nd Fortnight issue 2021 GUESTCOLUMN A rise in wellness travellers Growth of global wellness tourism in 2021 will still be largely driven by secondary wellness travellers who seek to maintain their health and well-being while enjoying the experiences of a regular trip or destination getaway, says Ingo Ronald Schweder, Founder & CEO at GOCO Hospitality and MD at Horwath HTL Health & Wellness.

nternational wellness and wellness-centric experienc- wellness experience beyond the be at 10-15 per cent of global become more and more com- The wellness economy’s future, tourism trips grew es, the hospitality industry has hotel and vacation setting into economic output, factoring monplace across all facets of and specifically that of wellness I12 per cent annually a unique and much-needed op- the home and everyday life will in medical costs, productiv- life, and therefore, so must the hospitality, will be strongly influ- between 2015 and 2017, sig- portunity to leverage wellness continue to create opportunities ity losses caused by chronic offering and evolution of well- enced by the significant global nificantly faster than domestic as a key service proposition. for the industry, manifesting it- disease, work-related stress, ness in the hospitality sector. changes seen over the last year. tourism trips. And despite do- This can lead to the creation injuries, illness and disengage- Certainly, the predicted growth mestic wellness travel dwarfing of better brand positioning, ment. However, worldwide, less Conclusion of the pre-pandemic era will international wellness travel over increased revenue generation than 10 per cent of workplace In the wake of the coronavi- take time to correct, but due to the same period, international and a more sustainable model Well-being is benefits include workplace well- rus pandemic, global well- fast-growing trends surround- wellness trips represented a that has the ability to better ness initiatives, with the major- being is expected to remain ing health, immunity, and well- proportionally larger share of react to future crises. This expected to ity of workers more concerned sharply in focus both in being, the hospitality industry is expenditures because the av- change will engage and more about their employers meeting terms of physical need and poised to see a fast recovery if erage level of spending for an effectively service the needs be in focus in the most basic needs. Now, pri- collective cultural narrative. the correct steps are taken. international trip is much higher. of both health-enlightened terms of physical mary concern has understand- The World Bank predicts as Growth rates will undoubtedly be and uninitiated guests alike. ably shifted towards job stabil- many as 150 million people reduced over the next few years, The Global Wellness Institute need & cultural ity and workplace safety. Soon, will fall into extreme poverty but a similar or larger growth rate estimates that international concern will shift again to ad- by 2021 and suggests that a is expected to return, notably at wellness travellers spend at a narrative dress the post-pandemic need number of middle-income a faster rate than the wider hos- 53 per cent premium over the for a maintained state of health countries will see significant pitality industry as a whole.This average international tourist, and well-being, with greater numbers of urban dwellers data helps support the claim that while domestic wellness trav- self in a surge in wellness real demand for more comprehen- slipping below the poverty line wellness has never been more ellers spend at a 178 per cent estate investments and work- sive healthcare benefits and for the first time, identifying a important than in current times. premium over their standard place wellness initiatives. dedicated workplace wellness significant shift in the spending Ingo Ronald Schweder domestic counterparts. solutions. Needless to say, as power of those who may have Founder & CEO, GOCO Hospitality and Wellness as a business driver Benefits of a healthy workforce people’s expectations rise, the previously had the economic MD, Horwath HTL Health & Wellness As people begin to seek more In addition, overall rising con- The economic burden of an un- term ‘health and wellness’ and stability to enjoy travel and (Views expressed are the author’s own. experiential travel opportunities sumer interest in extending well workforce is estimated to the practices surrounding it will wellness tourism. The publication may or may not subscribe to them.) Impact of the second wave Extracts from the latest CAPA Advisory India Aviation Outlook FY2022 reflect how the second wave of the infection will impact key trends in Indian aviation in FY2022. It will take significant time to restore the confidence of inbound tourists and business travellers in India as a destination. Pre-COVID traffic is only expected to be restored by FY2024.

TT Bureau The twin shocks of the first and second waves, occurring in Update as of May 2021 n early Jan-2021, the space of a little of over 12 v The second wave is likely to accelerate the process of CAPA Advisory had months, will leave a long-term consolidation of airlines, and to an even greater strategic level. Ireleased a report on structural impact. Supply-side However, the chances of a successful divestment of Air India ‘Key Trends in Indian Avia- risks have increased markedly, may be less certain. tion in FY2022’. At that time, and were they to eventuate v Supply-side risks have increased sharply as a result of the a steady recovery in traffic they would likely result in an second wave. If realised, this will create a strategic dilemma for was visible, particularly in imbalance in the competitive policymakers and regulators. the domestic sector. For the structure of the industry, pos- v Domestic airline traffic for the full year will be higher than the next couple of months these sibly creating policy and regu- approximately 53 million passengers in FY2021. The impact encouraging trends contin- latory challenges. will be more pronounced in the international sector. Pre-COVID ued, while the number of new traffic is expected to be restored by FY2024. daily COVID cases declined. of a couple of weeks, with the ance sheets and poor liquidity. CAPA India once again urges v The severity and impact of the second wave will virtually close But since late March 2021, likelihood that subdued de- COVID inflicted massive losses the Ministry of Civil Aviation the door for most aviation businesses in terms of access to there has been a tragic turn of mand will continue for several and an increasing debt burden to create a new policy frame- lenders, in the absence of government intervention, which events, with cases and fatali- months to come. This will deal on carriers that were struc- work. The original National is unlikely. ties from the virus surging. a body blow to the industry, turally ill-equipped to absorb Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) v There is no scope for lifting fare caps and floors in the current crushing the optimism that this impact. The extent of the released in 2016 was designed environment. They will almost certainly persist for at least the The re-imposition of formal had been emerging in recent challenge is reflected in the for an environment of growth. first half of the year, and possibly for most of FY2022. lockdowns as well as pas- months. Most Indian airlines fact that Indian carriers under- Post-COVID there is a need v The current ‘bubble arrangements’ are likely to continue for at senger fear has seen traffic were already very vulnerable recovered almost USD70 per for NCAP 2.0 – possibly as an least the next six months and well into the second half. numbers halve in a matter prior to COVID, with weak bal- passenger in FY21. interim measure - to support v It appears more likely that the government may seek to renegoti- sectoral emergence from the ate bilateral air service agreements to limit the share and growth crisis through the stages of of sixth freedom carriers. This may lead to a new international survival, stabilisation, recovery IATA has called on governments to ensure that high costs for COVID-19 testing don’t aviation strategy. and eventually expansion. This put travel out of reach for individuals and families. To facilitate an efficient restart, v In light of the second wave, the likelihood of IndiGo emerging is the time to take decisions COVID-19 testing must be affordable as well as timely, widely available and effective. significantly stronger than its competitors has increased. and pursue reforms.

exhibitions ATM Hybrid ready to roll in Dubai Media Partners: With a new hybrid format for the first time in ATM history, in-person at the DWTC from May 16-19 and virtually from May 24-26, the show will see 67 conference sessions featuring 145 local, regional and international speakers. MAY-2021 Date Event Time Manas Dwivedi Thailand, Mexico and the US. Week, a 10-day-long festival of ATM Virtual, the online edition Onsite, there is a Global Stage travel and tourism events taking of the ATM exhibition. 15-16 Maharashtra Agro-tourism conference 09:00 am ow in its 28th year, which will include a hotel in- place in Dubai and online. In ad- ATM 2021 will be dustry summit, dedicated buyer dition to the in-person Arabian This year, for the first time in 16-19 Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Hybrid Dubai Nhosted at the Dubai forums for Saudi Arabia and Travel Market event, the travel ATM history, a new hybrid for- 17-19 ATB Virtual 2021 01:30 pm World Trade Centre (DWTC), as China, an International Tour- events that are part of Arabian mat will mean a virtual ATM final preparations are being put ism & Investment Conference Travel Week are: travel technol- running a week later to comple- 22 Indiatourism Mumbai Presentation 04:00 pm in place. A total of 62 countries (ITIC), as well as an aviation ogy exhibition Travel Forward, ment and reach a wider audi- 19-23 FITUR Madrid are being represented on the ex- panel and a special session on ARIVAL Dubai for the tours ence than ever before. ATM Gulf-Israeli ties. Virtual, which made its debut 25-26 FTE Virtual Expo 2021 11:30 am last year, proved to be a re- “The theme of this year’s show sounding success attracting June 2021 is ‘A new dawn for travel and It is 12,000 online attendees from 1 Digital Travel APAC Virtual Summit TBA tourism’ and the spotlight will 140 countries. be on the latest ‘COVID’ news imperative 1-4 Routes Asia 2021 11:30 am from around the world – vac- that we include a “It is imperative that we include 4-6 CMT China Nanjing cine roll-outs, the current state a virtual element. Many industry of the industry and more impor- virtual element professionals from around the 10 Spain Tourism Webinar TBA tantly, what the future holds,” world may not be able to attend 8-12 Bali & Beyond Travel Fair Nusa Dua Danielle Curtis says Claude Blanc, Portfolio in-person every year, particu- Exhibition Director, Middle East Director, WTM & IBTM Port- larly this year with travel restric- 16-18 Korea Tourism Virtual Roadshow TBA Arabian Travel Market folios. “This underscores the and attractions sector, GBTA’s tions changing rapidly around importance of ATM, connecting half-day virtual business travel the globe. Due to Dubai’s 21 International Yoga Day Celebrations Pan-India destinations with their source conference, ITIC’s Middle East commitment to maintaining the 24 Spain Tourism Webinar TBA hibition floor this year such as markets,” adds Danielle Cur- Tourism Investment Summit, highest standards of health and the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, tis, Exhibition Director Middle speed networking events for safety and its effective citywide 24-27 Korea World Travel Fair Seoul Germany, Cyprus, Egypt, Indo- East, Arabian Travel Market. digital influencers and region- management of the pandemic, nesia, Malaysia, South Korea, The event will once again play ally-focused buyer groups (in- it was awarded a ‘Safe Travels’ For more information, contact us at: [email protected] the Maldives, the Philippines, an integral role in Arabian Travel cluding China) and, of course, stamp,” adds Curtis. IN MEMORIAM

Indian hospitality veteran It is with deep sorrow that we Rajindera Kumar, Director inform you of the tragic de- at Ambassador, New Delhi - mise of Meenu Sachdeva, the IHCL SeleQtions and Former Founder Member and Manag- President, HRANI & FHRAI, ing Director of TI Infotech. She passed away on May 6. The passed away on May 11. Her 78-year-old Kumar was the extensive contributions helped son of legendary hotelier create benchmarks for the in- Late Sh. Ram Pershad, who dustry. She will truly be missed. Swapna Guha Anil Bhandari Rajindera Kumar Meenu Sachdeva was President of FHRAI and With profound grief we A doyen of tourism and HRANI for the longest period. 1968. His experience of over In a heartfelt note, her colleague and even to the extent of help- inform you of the sad demise hospitality, Anil Bhan- four decades in the hospital- and friend Arjun Sharma, ing many at personal levels. of Swapna Guha, General dari passed way due to Kumar was one of the lon- ity sector had enabled him Chairman, TI Infotech, writes, We have some extremely fond Manager - Sales & Market- COVID-19 in Delhi-NCR and gest-serving senior members to stress on the importance "We at TI Infotech are left memories of Meenu; she ing, Mansingh Group of Hotels is mourned by the industry in of the Managing Committee of HRD. with her vision, commit- will always be in our prayers and Resorts. India and abroad. of Hotel and Restaurant As- ment towards the TI Fam- and her legacy will continue sociation of Northern India Describing him as "one of ily. She served for almost to guide and inspire us. She (HRANI). He was elected our industry's legends and 31 years in the travel, tour- was a feisty and strong leader President of HRANI in 2002- statesmen", Surendra Kumar ism and hospitality sector and always passionate in all 03 and then in 2006-2008. Jaiswal, President, HRANI including organisations like she did. She cherished chal- Kumar also led FHRAI as and Vice President, FHRAI, International Travel House, lenges and had an amazing President in 2009-10. He says, "The hospitality in- MakeMyTrip and SITA World problem-solving capability. remained a true warrior of dustry has lost an advocate Travel (KUONI India) before TI Infotech and the entire the industry all his life. He of knowledge-sharing and forming TI Infotech in 2005. team is so committed to her made invaluable contribu- an accomplished ground In this journey, she worked legacy even in her physi- tions to the advocacy efforts breaker, he was definitely a on various projects giving cal absence to continue the of HRANI & FHRAI, leaving a frontrunner in the activities solutions across industries in journey she left in between. DK Beri Kamalpreet Singh Bedi special imprint across India. of the association, a man different parts of the world. This will be our tribute to her. We regret to inform you of With profound grief and Born on January 10, 1943, ahead of his time, very disci- May God bless the departed the passing away of DK Beri, sorrow we inform you of he was educated at the plined and straight forward.” Her problem-solving approach soul to his Heavenly Abode former Senior Vice President the untimely demise of School of Hotel Adminis- was incredible which has and give the entire TI family for Business & Corporate Kamalpreet Singh Bedi, tration, Cornell University, His work, ethics and wisdom helped not only in TI Infotech strength and courage to bear Affairs, Taj Hotels, and a true Manager Sales, North India, USA. He returned to India in have made an indelible mark. but many of our customers this irreparable loss." stalwart and industry icon. United Airlines, on May 11.

18 TravTalk May 2nd Fortnight issue 2021 movements

JW MARRIOTT SHERATON GRAND RESORT & SPA NOVOTEL IMAGICA Kolkata Chennai Khopoli Sumeet Suri has been appointed as General Manager at JW Marriott Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa has appointed Amit Kumar Anil Chavan is now the General Manager at Novotel Imagica Khopoli. Kolkata. He brings to the table a huge repertoire of knowledge and as its new General Manager. Kumar is set to take the reins in these He comes with almost two decades of experience in the hospitality expertise in the dynamics of hotel management, unprecedented times and steer the hotel’s objective industry, having worked in operations as well administration and operations. Upgrading of creating a safe and welcoming destination for as sales & marketing with a range of brands productivity, ensuring patron satisfaction guests. With his astute leadership in managing across India and Dubai. In his new role, and strategic initiatives are some of his key hotels, he will focus his efforts on ensuring the Chavan will focus on enhancing the overall responsibilities. Suri has earned his repute well-being of the hotel team and safeguarding guest experience at the 287-room Novotel over two decades of utmost diligence, and his the health and best interests of guests. In the Imagica Khopoli, and will be responsible robust leadership qualities and passion for the new role, he will work to strengthen the hotel for revenue growth and overseeing the industry have contributed to impeccable results operations while continuing to enhance management of the operations team. across all the properties under the stellar services and guest Formerly, he was associated with Park his ambit. Prior to moving to experiences established at the Regis, Goa and was also the JW Marriott Kolkata, he was hotel. Prior to this move, Kumar General Manager of Royal the General Manager at served in the same capacity at Tulip Mumbai (Louvre Kochi Marriott. Courtyard by Marriott Chennai. Hotels Group). The value of IP A new travel mindset UNWTO says the Intellectual Property (IP) system, be it through American Express Travel asked travellers from seven countries designs or trademarks, can create a favourable ecosystem for what was on their minds and the results were interesting. There’s innovation, entrepreneurship and investment in tourism. a clear appreciation for the benefits that travel can bring.

Hazel Jain Hazel Jain was. The extended stay trend reinforces this trend, showing a Protect competitive advantage varies by region with Card rise in reservations for second- Promote creativity Ornamental elements found Paying for future travel Members in Mexico, Canada city destinations. American While the tourism sector has in tourist accommodation in Travellers are already think- and the UK twice as likely to Express Travel consultants are taken a hit during the pandemic, niche markets may be pro- ing ahead to how they’ll book book a stay of eight or more also seeing requests for smaller it will recover and contribute to tected by design rights. The and pay for future trips. With days than those in the US, In- cities like Porto (instead of reigniting hard-hit economies. strategic use of design regis- the increase in flexible book- dia, Australia, and Japan. Lisbon) in Portugal, and Wel- In this context, IP rights are intangibles, but it also attracts tration to protect ornamental or ing options, respondents are lington (instead of Auckland) in powerful tools that can be used investments and leverages fun- aesthetic aspects of furniture, ready to book now, with 56% The new luxury travel New Zealand. Some customers to boost tourism development draising opportunities. for example, may indirectly indicating they miss traveling The pandemic has changed are open to going ‘anywhere’ and competitiveness. The IP promote a destination’s cultur- so much that they are willing to peoples’ perception of lux- they can safely travel right now. system is designed to promote Create a distinctive identity al heritage and add value to the book a trip even if they might ury travel with personalized creativity and innovation and As IP contributes to the devel- tourism experience. Owners have to cancel it in the future. experiences (82%), high Backing local communities support efforts by individuals, opment of tourism products and designers can form part- cleanliness standards (81%) Travellers want to support businesses and other actors and to the reputational value nerships in order to introduce In fact, people miss traveling and privacy (79%) being small businesses and commu- to differentiate themselves and of destinations, IP protection contemporary and/or tradition- so much that 76% of respon- the most desirable luxury nities that make a destination their products and services in and management is becoming al designs into boutique hotels, the marketplace. an increasingly important con- or to achieve market differen- sideration for NTOs and DMOs. tiation and an advantage. Protect local communities There is growing awareness The IP system ensures that of the need to protect each Add a revenue stream creativity, innovation, tradi- destination’s heritage and to In addition to technological in- tions and cultural heritage in capitalise on its tourism as- novations, tourism businesses tourism are properly protected sets in order to generate value may also invest in creativity or and commercialised and that for local tourism stakeholders. quality. These investments in the benefits are shared by all. Whether it is producing cheese, tea, pepper, wine or other products, geographical indications and appellations of origin can be used to support the growth of rural tourism and dents surveyed are creating amenities among respondents. unique. Seventy-two percent provide benefits to local com- their destinations wish list for In fact, 80% indicate they are of respondents agree that munities. It can also support future travel even though they willing to travel to destina- they are passionate about the growth of rural tourism by might not be able to travel yet. tions during the offseason traveling to destinations to enhancing tourism in agricul- so that it's less crowded. help boost tourism revenue tural rural areas. Rise of the digital nomad and the local economy, and Flexible and remote work poli- American Express Travel has 77% agree that they want to Attract investment cies combined with unique in- also seen increased interest be more conscious about sup- Different IP rights can be centives from hotels, like beach in customers searching for porting small, local businesses leveraged to raise funds. Stake- workstations and discounts on unique getaways and spa- while traveling. holders around the globe are extended stays, have influ- cious, fully equipped villas. using IP rights to add value to enced the rise of the digital no- Brands that prioritise diversity tourism services and prod- mad - someone who lives and Surge in ‘second city’ destina- Sixty-nine per cent of re- ucts, as well as to protect and This helps to accelerate the improving goods and services works while traveling the globe. tions spondents agree that promote local knowledge, creation and development of can also be protected through As many travellers look to avoid they want to choose an airline traditions and cultural heritage. SMEs. This in turn improves the IP system. Investments in Fifty-four per cent respondents the crowds, 69% of respondents or a hotel that values diver- Not only does good IP knowl- the destination’s positioning R&D, product differentiation said the freedom to live and are interested in visiting lesser- sity and inclusion, and whose edge and management help and helps to build a strong and and marketing can be protected work while traveling is more known destinations. American employees reflect a diverse to make use of the protected vibrant brand identity. by the IP system. appealing now than it ever Express Travel booking data customer base.

Postal Reg. No.: DL(ND)-11/6044/2021-22-23; WPP No.: U(C)-178/2021-23 for posting on 1st-2nd and 16th-17th of the same month at New Delhi GPO, New Delhi-110001, RNI No.: 53492/1991 Date of Publication: 15-05-2021 Emirates is eager to return UAE’s flag carrier - Emirates - has been following all necessary protocols to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. Already covering a network of 120 destinations, Emirates is looking at increasing its capacity further in the coming months.

Shehara Rizly

dnan Kazim, Chief Commercial Officer, AEmirates, says that for the airline, the focus has been to put together the right measures before re-introducing flights. He says, “We went through a lock- down at Dubai Airport in March 2020, and then on May 9 we recommenced our service with repatriation operations. We took

menced was more on rebuilding agreement with the UAE, so India – key source market our network. So, we started with when the summer travel season on hold 10 stations back in May and commences in July or August, As a key source market for gradually increased that. Now we are quite keen to reintroduce Dubai, India’s sudden surge we have over 120 destinations Bali as a destination. We are in COVID-19 cases has led in our passenger network, so also looking at reintroducing our to closure of borders with the we have recovered more than capacity to China, adding more UAE although the two enjoyed 85 per cent of the network that capacity into Asia – including In- a good network with several we had earlier. Our focus now dia and Sri Lanka. In India, too, flights being operated between Adnan Kazim will be on bringing back capacity we want to ramp up operations. the two destinations. But, Dubai Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates which will purely be determined had to be cautious, being the by the easing of protocols by hub that connects the world, to the time between March and countries,” he shares. ensure safety of all passengers May to ensure that we put the and crew, hence, borders were right measures in place in terms Kazim adds that as part of this- We have closed April 24 onwards. Com- of COVID requirements for the drive, Emirates looks forward to recovered more menting on the matter, Kazim health and well-being of our staff the Dubai Expo as a mega event says, “First of all, our prayers and passengers.” These require- that will help it achieve its goals. than 85 per cent and thoughts are with India for ments, adds Kazim, included “We are already planning for a fast recovery from what they compulsorily wearing the mask, 70 per cent of our pre-COVID of the network are going through and I’m sure extra sanitisation of flights, man- capacity to be re-introduced that we had that the government will put datory PCR test for passengers by then, and we hope that with the right measures in place to travelling on board Emirates irre- the vaccine roll-out across the earlier have that recovery happening spective of the destination they world, things will look much as soon as possible. Today, our travelled from, a second test in better starting from July-August operations in India are restricted Dubai to ensure that people who and then gradually entering the India has an air bubble agree- and the air bubble through which came to the emirate were safe, winter with more borders being ment with the UAE, and we need we operated 14 daily flights to and ensuring social distancing at opened and more people being to gradually reintroduce the ca- nine points was not restricted the airport. “We even added the able to travel without restric- pacity that Emirates had here in in carrying traffic from Dubai plastic shield so that we could tions,” he believes. pre-COVID times, without any to India. Cargo is also opera- protect our check-in staff at the restrictions on the flow of people tional and we are extending all airport,” he says. In the pipeline… travelling on the visitors’ visa. the support that India requires As Emirates looks to vigorously We, as a company, are quite dy- from Emirates in mobilising the Rebuilding the network restart its operations in Asia, namic and agile to responding required COVID equipment. Un- While the pandemic has dis- Kazim says that Bali, Indone- to requirements as we see more fortunately, for the longer term, rupted operations across the sia, is one such example where countries opening gateways and I can’t say much on operations world, for Emirates, recom- they would like to soon recover easing protocols to re-engage as decisions regarding open- mencing operations was a operations in the approaching and re-introduce capacity, and ing of borders are driven by the meticulously planned exercise. summer travel season. “Indo- linking countries as soon as government. We do hope to be “Our focus when we recom- nesia has signed an air bubble possible,” Kazim says. back soon.”