Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P1

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SOCIAL EVENTS IN INDIA UNIQUE INDIAN OPPORTUNITY

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**Service Fee for tour guide/ driver is extra As Per Actual Validity 16 Sep To 13 Oct 2019 Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P6 A good 2019…so far… 020 is fast approaching. With 2only two months left to go, the travel trade industry, both in India and abroad, is going the extra mile to make the best of the festive season. In India, Dussehra and Diwali tourism is gaining Our Team popularity with respect to both outbound and inbound. While Managing Editor foreigners are coming into India Rohit Hangal this season to witness the Festival [email protected] of Lights, Indians are going abroad to celebrate the traditional festival with their loved ones residing Editor outside the country. Caroline Diana A lot of events took place in the [email protected] past few weeks. India International Travel Mart, which held two Creative Head editions in Mumbai and Delhi Shyam Vishnot witnessed participation from travel [email protected] agents, tour operators, provides, destination management companies, hotels, Senior Designer , and homestays. This countries and territories attended opportunity to gather detailed Devaraj Varma only further reiterates the point the record-breaking show over three insights of some of the best practices [email protected] that tourism, both domestic and days. “This year’s ITB conference and trends that are defining the international, is here to stay. brought together thought leaders future of MICE events at ITB Asia’s Advertising & Marketing Later, this month, Goa will host its from across the MICE, Leisure, inaugural MICE Show Asia. Mob: +91 98440 92150 very own travel show, titled, Goa Corporate, and Travel Tech sectors MICE is gaining momentum in [email protected] International Travel Mart. Over 250 to explore how businesses can India with corporates using new hosted buyers and 55 hosted media turn creative ideas into bold, yet ways to reduce costs. will take part in the event, which practical, initiatives to keep pace Publishers will comprise B2B networking with technological developments in With so many positive changes Surinder Hakhu events, FAM trips, hotel visits and the travel industry. Across the three happening around, 2019, hopefully, [email protected] more. days of the conference, attendees will end on a positive note. In Asia, the talk of the town was were able to hear from more than Rohit Hangal ITB Asia where more than 27,000 270 speakers, including Booking. [email protected] business appointments were made, com, Expedia, IBM, OYO,” stated exceeding past years’ performances. a press release issued by ITB Asia. Caroline Diana Over 13,000 participants from 132 Attendees this year also got an Editor

Pg16 How to manage corporate travel expenses Pg18 Social events in India # 245, Amar Jyothi Layout Domlur, Bangalore - 560 071, India Ph: +91 - 80 - 4083 4103 Fax: + 91 - 80 - 4083 4101 [email protected] WTM 2019: Pg29 www.spheretravelmedia.com What to look

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INDUSTRYBUZZ Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P8

Bluemont Beacon Hotel opens at Kapashera he Fern Hotels & Resorts has opened TBluemont Beacon Hotel at Kapashera, New Delhi, taking the tally to 14 hotels managed under the Beacon brand by the company. Overall, this is the 67th hotel managed by the company. On the overall growth of the company, the brand’s CEO Suhail Kannampilly said, “It is a matter of great satisfaction that all our brands, be it The Fern, The Fern Residency and Beacon Hotels have all been well received by our guests. We are looking forward to serving our clientele in New Delhi with this hotel.” Bluemont Beacon Hotel is a 45-room hotel offering contemporary accommodations, Reni Pani completes 10 years of conscious luxury a finely-designed multi-cuisine , and eni Pani Jungle Lodge, which is a part of the RARE India Community of hotels that believe in conscious three state-of-art banquet halls and meeting Rluxury, has successfully completed a decade of offering a contemporary wildlife and conservation- rooms. focused luxury hospitality experience in Satpura. Reni Pani Jungle Lodge’s Owner and Head Naturalist Aly Rashid said, “The journey of Reni Pani has been a journey of Satpura as we know it. For the last decade, since Anurak wins opened in Satpura, Reni Pani has been a pioneer and at the forefront of promoting responsible Tourism award nature-based tourism. It has been a great journey full of memorable experiences with exceptionally interesting people who we have been privileged to host.” Located in the Satpura National Park and Tiger nurak Community Lodge in southern Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, the Jungle Lodge offers twelve rooms and four luxury tents nestled in forested AThailand has won the global 2019 SKAL nooks with each accommodation unit having its own private butler. Sustainable Tourism Award in the Rural Accommodation category. The award was presented during the opening ceremony of the Stay at Four Seasons, 80th SKAL World Congress held onboard the Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas cruise discover St Petersburg ship 15 September in the waters off Florida. ow, Indian citizens can visit Russia’s cultural The 20-key Anurak Community Lodge, which Ncapital St. Petersburg and the surrounding opened in 2016 in a forest setting on the edge region via e-visa. Applicants need to simply of Khao Sok National Park, was one of nine fill out a form on the web site of the Consular winners. The other awards were for community Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry and and government projects, countryside and upload a photograph, and pay the consular fee. biodiversity; educational institutions/programs With the hassle of a visa out of the way, the only and media; major tourist attractions; marine and coastal; tour operators and travel agents; thing left to do is plan a spectacular itinerary. tourism ; and urban accommodation. Those who choose to discover St. Petersburg can do so via a stay at the iconic Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St. Petersburg. Guarded by Ixigo launches travel two marble lions at the entrance, this historic cleanliness campaign Hotel sits within the walls of a 19th-century royal palace in the Admiralteysky district, where the ravel platform ixigo has launched a new opulent stylings of imperial Russia are alive and Ttravel cleanliness campaign ‘Jaisa Ghar Waisa Desh’ to address the growing concern well – and every bit as inspiring as they were around lack of hygiene and cleanliness at centuries ago. The hotel is ideal for intimate tourist destinations. The campaign, in the form getaways as well as get-togethers. of a counter-intuitive video, aims to sensitize travelers on the impact of littering and how it transforms beautiful tourist destinations into unpleasant spots. The campaign sheds light on the double standards that citizens have when it comes to maintaining cleanliness at home and in public places. The short video shows a family dirtying their house making it unlivable. The concept draws a parallel between maintaining hygiene and cleanliness in all public places as one would do in their homes. RCI India launches ‘ALL SET’ campaign n , RCI has unveiled a Obrand campaign – ‘ALL SET,’ in line with RCI’s core values of keeping customer in the centre and providing informed choices to customers towards fulfilled holidays. RCI’s objective Suiran grabs Japan’s top spot behind the campaign is to engage with existing uiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto, has bagged the first place in the “Top 10 Hotels in Japan” category and prospective travelers, communicating Sin the 2019 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. This is the second consecutive year that the RCI’s key offerings and delivering on providing hotel has won the coveted award. Suiran graces the banks of the tranquil Hozu River in Kyoto, Japan’s world-class to travelers. The All-Set ancient imperial capital. The intimate and luxurious 39-room and suite hotel features a blend of traditional campaign is born out of Customer Insights on architectural design and contemporary comfort, set in an elegant Japanese garden. Some guest rooms and vacation exchange providing the best options suites feature private gardens and open-air onsen baths, with natural hot springs. The property is located for families. The digital campaign will be on for three months on the official RCI website and on the west end of Kyoto, a city with more than a thousand years of history as a retreat for Japan’s imperial across high-impact social media platforms. and aristocratic families. The is a haven of peace and serenity, with gourmet dining options and private spa facilities providing a relaxing escape from the everyday world.

INDIAOUTBOUND Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P10 Visit Brussels hosts travel trade networking session

VW BUREAU

isit Brussels recently organized Va Brussels Tourism Mission in India and interacted with over 200 trade and media partners from the travel fraternity in Mumbai and Delhi. The mission was led by Pieter Callebaut, Business Development Leisure, visit. brussels, and Ellona Pereira, Account Director, visit.brussels-India with a clear mandate of ensuring that the travel trade should experience the rich hospitality that not just this European Capital has to offer but Belgium as a whole destination. The week-long visit to Mumbai and New Delhi were jam- packed with meetings with leading travel agents in both cities, training program for frontline travel staff selling Brussels as a destination but most importantly the day event in Mumbai highlighted Belgium gastronomy, MEET-UP: Over 200 trade and media partners from the travel fraternity were present at the two-city event. wherein participants were offered a spread of Belgian delights from waffles for Brussels’ tourism industry and present were the two starred attractions European Capital through workshops, to beers to fries to an interactive briefed travel partners on the various of Brussels namely Atomium and sales visits, travel agent destination chocolate making workshop. attractions in the capital. Mini Europe who presented their trainings and much more. This year so Ambassador of Belgium to India “Brussels is growing to become an product offerings. Turkish airlines far, Visit Brussels has targeted markets H.E. François Delhaye hosted a important “go-to” destination in all our preferred travel partner gifted two such as Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, “networking cocktails and dinner” the European itineraries. In 2018, 28, economy return tickets to the winners Kolkata, Pune, Nagpur and Hyderabad for select travel trade partners at his 756 Indians visited Brussels and there of the lucky draw along with 2 nights through “training programs”. In residence in Delhi while the Consul was a growth of 22 percent in arrivals stay at Amigo Hotel in Brussels and coming months, we aim to organize General of the Kingdom of Belgium, from India as compared to year 2017. 2 nights stay at Marriott properties in more training programs for agents Pierre-Emmanuel Brusselmans was Also in the same period, a significant Brussels. from other key cities of India with an present at the event in Mumbai. rise of 30 percent in the number of As part of our promotional activities objective to strengthen the image of Pieter Callebaut spoke about the nights spent in Brussels by Indians in India, Visit Brussels is focused on Belgium and in particular Brussels as importance of the India market has been observed”, he added. Also, growing awareness and visibility of the a tourist destination.

Taiwan Tourism Bureau turns 1 in Mumbai VW BUREAU The summit will gather notable speakers like R. T. Tsai, Vice  Fully Browser based Software Awarded he Taiwan Tourism Bureau will President, Delta Electronics, “Best Online Product”  Multiple User Login Tcelebrate its one-year anniversary Taiwan; SK Chang, Professor at IITM, New Delhi, 2017 in India and the Taiwan Roadshow in and Director, Advanced Public Mumbai on October 16. Transport Research Center; and To mark the milestone, a diverse Naresh Pradhan, Project Officer- program has been lined up for the Transport, Asian Development Enquiry Management grand celebrations to be held at the St. Bank. The expo will comprise Regis Mumbai. exhibitors from Delta Electronics, Also taking place in October is the Ahamani EV Technology and Tour Itinerary & Tour Quotation Smart Asia — Expo & Summit Acer Being Communication of the 2019. Smart city solutions and smart Acer Group. Smart Asia 2019 will Billing (10 types) & Credit Notes technology applications will be the also feature ‘Taiwan Excellence’ focus of the event, which runs from and ‘COMPUTEX’ pavilions, , Hotel & Vehicle Voucher October 17 to October 19, 2019. exhibiting Taiwan’s diversified For the first time, the expo and award-winning and AI-incorporated summit — organized by the Taiwan smart solutions for their Indian Receipt/Payment Cash & Bank entries External Trade Development Council counterparts. (TAITRA), in association with James Huang, TAITRA chairman, said, Auto GST Calculation & Report Generation Federation of Indian Chambers of “After a successful stint in Bangalore Commerce & Industry (FICCI) — will in 2018, where we witnessed over be held in Mumbai at the Bombay 70 per cent of players adopting our Pro t & Loss Report Exhibition Centre. technology with a potential impact Industry leaders in the smart city on approximately 150,000 end domain will be present, while the expo consumers, the need for smart city will showcase solutions from some solutions became evident. Special Price for Travel Agencies INR 10,000 of the brightest players in Taiwan as Moreover, with significant uptake Oer for Limited Period well as address areas such as urban from the city planning segments in city planning, IoT solutions, smart India like real estate, infrastructure energy, smart transportation, smart and transportation, we look forward For free Demo & Purchase, Please contact water management, environmental to offering our Artificial Intelligence Mr. Pushkar Gokhale: +91 9822498293 | 7774098988 | 020-24466699 sustainability, and future smart cities (AI)-driven urban city solutions that Email: [email protected] development in India. will significantly boost productivity.” INDIAOUTBOUND SWITZERLAND

AUTUMN OR FALL TRIPS TO SWITZERLAND ARE GAINING POPULARITY AMONG INDIANS AS IT’S A SHOULDER SEASON, A TIME WHEN THE BEST HOTEL AND AIRLINE DEALS ARE AVAILABLE.

VW BUREAU number of younger travelers who unexplored side of the country and want to experience winter sports. introduced Indian travelers to regions ndian tourists are increasingly Switzerland offers opportunities like Montreux, Lausanne, Lavaux, Ilooking at Switzerland as a such as the first ski experience Glacier 3000, Golden Pass Panoramic preferred travel destination because which allows the traveler to try out The train and more. of the plethora of offers available for the sport with the least hassle. The campaigns “We are very pleased with the way all seasons and all age groups. Indian package includes not just a ski pass, Indian travelers are increasingly travelers are getting more diverse, but also an instructor as well as ski we did this looking at Switzerland as a 365- adventurous, and experiential and are equipment for a half-day experience year with day destination that has something now also exploring seasons other than in an all-inclusive offer. for every member of the family. the traditional summer period Switzerland has a lot of experiences Ranveer Singh and for The campaigns we did this year and traveling in the autumn months as and activities to offer in its boutique 'The Grand Train Tour', with Ranveer Singh and for 'The well as in winter. cities such as Zurich, Lucerne, Grand Train Tour', were very well Switzerland’s growing popularity Interlaken, St. Moritz and Montreux were well received. received by viewers as they were amongst Indians can be attributed to the and Lausanne in the Lake Geneva able to see Switzerland and all the successful promotion of the diversity Region, be it adventure, sports, new and unexplored experiences and in options the country offers across culture, food, or experiences. Zurich RITU SHARMA destinations it has to offer. Both 2017 seasons. It is a 365-day destination however still remains the most popular Deputy Director, and 2018 have been really exciting that is ready for visitors any time of region and enjoys a 35% market share Switzerland Tourism India years for us. We saw a 9.6% increase the year, with every season presenting of all nights spent by Indians because in the overnights spent by Indians in the country in a new light. Although Indians prefer staying in Swiss cities has been one of the most important Switzerland during 2017-2018. Our summer remains the most popular as they are small, easy to navigate aspects of the promotions for 2018- overnights in 2017 stood at 739,185 season, autumn or fall is gaining yet very close to nature with all the 19, with strategic campaigns running while they moved up to 809,940 popularity amongst Indians as it’s a comforts of a city. across new media with specially in 2018. In 2019, too, we hope to shoulder season, a time when the best The Swiss Travel Pass - an all on one curatedGrand Train Tour videos using continue with this growth,” said Ritu hotel and airline deals are available ticket valid on all modes of public popular television celebrities and Sharma, Deputy Director, Switzerland with perfect weather conditions. transportation is also very popular influencers as they are very relatable Tourism India. Lucerne, Interlaken and Lake Geneva with Indian tourists due to its the to Indian audiences. Switzerland Tourism also held their Region make for a perfect autumn convenience and ease-of-use for Of course, a big contributor to annual roadshow in the cities of holiday for solos, couples, families as tourists, in fact India stands at no- 2 Switzerland’s increasing number of Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, well as adventure seekers. worldwide in the sales of the Swiss Indian overnights is the passionate Ahmedabad and Chennai. These Destinations like St Moritz, Zermatt, Travel Pass. and effervescent Ranveer Singh who is roadshows which included 21 Swiss and Engelberg-Titlis are popular The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland the brand ambassador for Switzerland partners including destinations, winter destinations as they offer encompasses the country's top Tourism. With his unparalleled charm hoteliers, transport partners as well as exciting winter sports activities panoramic trains and gives tourists and energy, he has helped showcase mountain representatives like skiing, tobogganing, and snow- an opportunity to explore all the main Switzerland in a very attractive from various parts of Switzerland tubing. In the past few years, the attractions of Switzerland via these and diverse light. His last trip to were well received by the travel trade country has seen an increasing scenic routes. 'The Grand Train Tour' Lake Geneva Region showcased an in these cities. DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF MADHYA PRADESH

WITH SPECTACULAR LOCALES AND ANCIENT FORTS, MP IS THE PLACE TO BE. cenic landscapes, stony structures, and silk saris that spell elegance — SAll these you will find in the Magnificent state of Madhya Pradesh. In existence since the 11th century, Chanderi is blessed with scenic beauty in and around it. While picturesque hills, lakes and forts surround the charming town, its exquisite hand-woven Chanderi saris would make every Indian woman beam with joy — and pride. The town of Chanderi, with its regal radiance, will leave you spellbound, and often, feeling like the royalty, you used to playact as a child. The neighboring historic town of Orchha, nestled on the banks of river Betwa is yet another . It was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput Chief, Rudra Pratap. Here, the river Betwa splits into seven channels, also called the Satdhara. Legend has it that this is in honor of the seven erstwhile Chiefs of Orchha. This ancient town seems frozen in time, with its many monuments continuing to retain their original grandeur even to this day. Here you will find some of the most fascinating temples and palaces that you have only seen in your dreams. In the same circuit is Gwalior with its imposing hilltop fort, which was famously described as ‘the pearl amongst fortresses in India.’ Gwalior is one of the most visited cities in Madhya Pradesh. Historically, the city has been the cradle of a number of dynasties that ruled it over the years. Their influence is clearly seen in the many regal structures that dominate the cityscape. In a sense, Gwalior continues to retain a medieval majesty. Gwalior holds an unparalleled reputation in Sangeet and has retained Indian traditions and the wealth of music intact over the years. The Gwalior Gharana is one of the oldest Khayal Gharanas and the one to which most classical Indian musicians can trace the origin of their style. Legendary musicians like Tansen and Baiju Bawara belonged to Gwalior. When visiting Madhya Pradesh, make sure you do not miss the Chanderi- Orchha-Gwalior circuit.

- Advertorial TravelBiz Monitor | September 16-30, 2019 | 00

Online B2B Appointment System Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P14 ‘Wowing the guest can’t be found in a manual’ CAROLINE DIANA experience is the key to creating loyal In your opinion, what is the best way guests. In the , guest to market an Indian hotel? yatt Regency Delhi has always satisfaction largely depends on the Marketing a hotel involves following a Hbeen a favorite among travelers. quality of service and going that extra step-by-step approach and consistently Julian Ayers, who recently took over as mile to ensure all your guests have a Guest putting efforts to get results. In my the property’s , lays super visit. opinion, word of mouth is the winner. out his plans to bring more to the table. service is Having a personal recommendation is What does customer service defined always the best. Beyond that, we live You recently took over as the General personally mean to you? in a digital world and as our guests Manager of Hyatt Regency Delhi, The guest service is central to the by the drive to exceed become more and more tech-savvy, we alongside overseeing operations hospitality industry. Great guest service guest’s expectations and must adapt and adjust to stay relevant. in other Hyatt properties in North is key for increasing revenues but is to always work from the India. Considering the wealth of also helpful for brand development and What lies ahead for Indian experience you’ve gained by working guest retention. For me, guest service is heart. hospitality? in properties around the world, defined by the drive to exceed guest’s The Indian hospitality industry has what best practices do you intend expectations and to always work from JULIAN AYERS grown at a huge pace and is directly to implement to enhance the value the heart. Wowing the guest cannot be linked with the tourism industry. The proposition of brand Hyatt? found in a manual, it can be inspired by General Manager, industry is expected to grow further My main focus is to bring my global outstanding working conditions and a Hyatt Regency Delhi with an emphasis on sustainability. experience to invoke a spirit of genuine desire to help people. With the rising awareness amongst innovation and diversity at Hyatt In general, what are the challenges Regency Delhi along with doing little Having worked in properties around people about the harmful effects of faced by the Indian hospitality plastic - to the environment as well as things that make a difference and make the world, what were your key industry? someone’s day whether it is a guest or a learnings during your tenure? the people, hotels all over India have India’s hospitality industry is growing team member. First, no two assignments are alike, started taking steps and measures rapidly and competition is increasing what worked in once place doesn’t to reduce plastic in their day-to-day constantly as well. Within the hotel In your opinion, what are the three mean it will work in the new place; so business. For instance, Hyatt Regency key attributes that are required for a make use of the wealth of knowledge industry, one bad experience is enough Delhi has actively taken steps to end hotel to bring back repeat customers? already in your team because one size to turn away guests. Driven by guest plastic use at the hotel. A step in that In order to be successful in any business, really does not fit all. Second, don’t try expectations, the hotel industry is direction The fully automated water- it is not enough to just attract new to fix things thing that is not broken - facing a vast set of challenges. Shortage bottling plant aims to end the use of guests. Retaining the existing guests change for the sake of it is not a good of skilled employees, shortage of approximately 1.08 million plastic and bringing back guests is equally thing, Third, it needs to be fun - if the rooms, intense competition and guest bottles a year by switching to reusable important to create a name in any team is enjoying their work then the expectations are few of the challenges glass bottles. This process saves 28 industry. Creating an amazing guest guests will enjoy their visit. faced by the hospitality industry. tonne of plastic waste every year. Gupreet Singh Sandhu learns to drift in Jordan VW BUREAU sheer rock face by the Nabataeans, with the treasury or the ‘Khazneh’ f ever there was a country that being the most visually stunning. Iperfectly aligned with stunning Entrance to the city of Petra is through backdrops for driving and drifting -- the Siq, a narrow gorge, over 1km it has to be Jordan, and the Mars-like in length, which is flanked on either landscape of Wadi Rum in particular. side by soaring, 80m high cliffs. As A maze of monolithic rockscapes rises you reach the end of the Siq you will up from the desert floor to heights of catch your first glimpse of Al-Khazneh 1,750m creating a natural backdrop for (Treasury). It is an awe-inspiring the video captured during the Red Bull experience to see the massive façade, Drifting shoot in Jordan recently. This 30m wide and 43m high, carved out exciting project was a collaboration of the sheer, dusky pink rock-face and between Red Bull and the Jordan dwarfing everything around it. It was Tourism Board. carved in the early 1st century as the The entire drifting experience in Jordan tomb of an important Nabataean king starred trailblazer Indian footballer and and represents the engineering genius the goalkeeper of the National Football of these ancient people. Sandhu visited Team Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. The both these major tourist attractions in goalkeeper of Bengaluru FC in the Jordan while he was filming. India Super League, and also a Red Sandhu was in Jordan to learn how to the annual King of Desert series – a car is steered sideways to intentionally Bull Athlete Sandhu is the first-ever drift from the drifting star of the Middle title he retained in 2017. A favourite lose traction on the wheels. With Indian to play a competitive match East and Red Bull Athlete Ahmad saying of his is “sideways is the new prolonged skidding and a rapid build- for a top-division team in the UEFA Daham. Winner of multiple Red way forward”! With a huge fan base up of friction, the tyres of drift cars are Europa League when he represented Bull Car Park Drift championships, all around the Middle East, he always burnt through within a few minutes. Norwegian side Stabaek FC. Daham has been crowned King of the takes the time to talk to his fans, giving At the Madaba Circuit in Amman, Gurpreet recently travelled across the Desert twice and he is the Guinness them advice on tuning and driving. Jordan, Sandhu went through a natural wonders of Jordan that is the World Record holder for the longest Drift racing is one of the fasting thrilling experience of learning from Dead Sea and Petra. At over 400m twin drift. In addition to holding growing motorsports in the Middle Daham how to do donuts, the figure of (1,312 ft.) below sea level, the Dead the Guinness World Record for the East. Pioneered by Japanese street eight and drift around a corner on the Sea is the lowest point on the face of longest twin drift, Daham stacked up racers in the 1970s, it evolved into track on a 700 horsepower car. the earth where you can float without a series of big wins. He followed up a mainstream international sport in sinking. Petra, known as the ‘rose red his 2014 Jordan Drift Championship the early 2000s. In recent years it has Sandhu also hitched a ride with Daham city’ is a world wonder, and without a by winning the Red Bull Car Park gained popularity, particularly across for an experience of a lifetime when doubt Jordan’s most valuable treasure Drift championship that same year, Jordan. they both drifted through locations like and greatest tourist attraction. It is repeating the feat in 2015. In 2016, In drift racing, instead of driving Namala Road, Wadi Rum and dropped a vast, unique city, carved into the he was crowned King of the Desert in straight like in conventional racing, the Sandhu off at the Dead Sea. TECHNOLOGY CONTINUES TO TRANSFORM THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY. PLANNERS NEED IT. ATTENDEES DEMAND IT. THE CONTINUED ADVANCEMENTS IN AREAS SUCH AS THE APPLICATION OF ROBOTICS AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, FACIAL RECOGNITION, AND VIRTUAL REALITY ARE EXCITING. THESE TECHNOLOGIES ARE BRINGING TO MEETINGS WHAT MANY ATTENDEES ALREADY USE AND EXPERIENCE IN THEIR DAILY LIVES, MAKING MEETING EXPERIENCES MORE IMMERSIVE AND EXCITING, WHILE INCREASING THE ABILITY FOR MEETING OWNERS TO ACHIEVE THEIR MEETING GOALS. SOURCE: AMERICAN EXPRESS Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P16

How to manage

CorporateTravel Expenses

VW BUREAU expenses, a majority of organizations into which airlines and lodging their the organization may not have a (67 percent) continue to use corporate travelers are using, and if travel formal policy in place prohibiting According to new research from credit cards, with 60 percent saying policies are being followed. this; second, travelers are motivated the Association of Corporate Travel they are very or extremely satisfied “For many organizations, the adage by the appeal of earning cash back Executives (ACTE), developed in with them. Sixty-three percent of ‘if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it’ rewards, frequent traveler points collaboration with Mastercard and say it is their preferred payment applies when it comes to payments,” or other travel benefits like airport the NAPCP, a global professional method. And while just 15 percent said Leigh Bochicchio, executive lounge access. association serving the commercial of organizations surveyed use virtual director, ACTE. “The corporate card However, the drawbacks for the card and payments industry), the use cards or single use accounts for has long been the gold standard for organization are clear. The use of of corporate cards for business travel, another 28 percent the industry, and its benefits should personal cards offers little or no continues to expand globally due the plan to adopt them in the future. not be discounted. The beauty of a transparency into spending, inhibits security, efficiency and convenience corporate card program is it can be travel managers’ ability to perform that both employees and companies Why Corporate Cards? customized based on the needs of the their duty of care responsibilities, derive from their usage. Travel Traveler and travel managers’ need organization and its culture.” prevents organizations from imposing managers also report increased for simplicity underlies the continued reasonable restrictions on cards’ use, utilization of virtual cards and single leadership of corporate cards. For Personal Cards Are Not Well and can make it extremely difficult to use accounts to help manage spend many travelers, using corporate Suited for Business Travel manage reimbursement and expense for infrequent travelers, helping cards avoids the need to pay for A key payment challenge reconciliation. manage a bigger piece of the total travel costs up front and eliminates organizations contend with is “When organizations’ employees corporate travel budget. onerous reimbursement processes. employees’ use of personal credit use corporate T&E cards, they’re The global study conducted by For companies’ travel management cards. Forty-eight percent of able to capture enriched data to ACTE, Evolving Payments in executives, corporate cards allow respondents say personal cards are reconcile expenses, prevent misuse Corporate Travel, found that when it for better expense tracking and used within their organzsations, and overspending, and ultimately, comes to paying for corporate travel reconciliation, provide transparency likely driven by two factors: first, negotiate better rates with suppliers,” Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P17

IMAGE CREDIT: MATTHEW HENRY

A majority of organizations continue to use corporate credit cards, with 60 percent saying Travel Expenses they are very or extremely satisfied with them.

said Jeff Feuerstein, senior vice the answer, they still require an for organizations to add to their evaluating their options. The size president, Global Commercial alternative solution to personal cards. payment toolkit,” said Heather Miller, of their organisation, centralized Product Management at Mastercard. The solution may lie in virtual community engagement manager or de-centralized nature of travel “The cost of employees using their cards, which offer travelers a single for the NAPCP. “Organizations have programme management, volume of personal cards far outweighs the or multi-use account number for found success in using virtual cards employee travel, budget limitations, benefits, so it’s crucial to have clear corporate travel purchases. These as a solution for contract employees, how the organisation utilises data, and corporate card usage requirements cards offer many of the benefits of interview candidates and non-frequent tools at their disposal for managing and to educate employees about why corporate cards (e.g., the ability to travelers. and analysing travel spend all have corporate card usage works in both capture spend data and avoid the use A virtual card offers all the benefits a strong influence on the types of the organisation’s and their favour.” of personal cards) while also solving of the traditional card programme, payments that will work best in any other challenges. For example, virtual such as data visibility and controls, organisation. There Is a Better Way cards allow travel managers to place while creating a better experience for Bochicchio said, “Adopting a new While there is a continued preference limits on which merchants travelers the traveler who does not need to pay payment method should be approached for corporate cards, the study showed can spend at, which categories they out-of-pocket for company expenses. the same way as any change to a that there are unmet needs for some can spend on, when in time the funds The industry anticipates a growth corporate travel programme: Identify travelers and travel managers, can be spent, and on budget. Other in the adoption of virtual cards as what your organisation needs and particularly in areas of controlling key benefits of virtual payments more organizations start to realise the what’s acceptable within your culture or limiting card usage. Managing include the enhanced data captured benefits.” and work closely with your card the spend of those who do not for each transaction and the absence provider to design and implement have company-issued cards, like of physical cards, which reduces the The Path Forward the right programme within your consultants, interview candidates, or administrative burden of managing There are clear benefits in utilising company. There is no one ‘right’ way infrequent travelers, rose to the top credit limits and monitoring ongoing each of these company-issued card to do things in this industry other than as well. While not all companies usage of traditional cards. payment options, yet travel managers to be nimble and open to new options feel as though corporate cards are “Virtual cards can be a great tool have numerous considerations when and technology.” Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P18

SOCIAL EVENTS IN INDIA UNIQUE INDIAN OPPORTUNITY CREATING UNIQUE BRAND IDENTITIES AND FOCUS ON EVENT SPACES WILL TAKE ON BRANDED HOTELS, ESPECIALLY IN THE FOUR- AND FIVE-STAR SEGMENT.

ROHIT HANGAL to the table! We are not talking about any occasion and do hotels strategize to interested in getting to the magic corporate events yet, that brings in the woo this burgeoning segment. Having number of 100 properties in India than here there is an opportunity, big moneybags. been in the industry, before the evolution creating a right variation to their product Wthere stems a devil! The country of the term ‘Event Management’ to now to suit the Indian market. Service and simply loves to celebrate! With made- The Indian Event Space ‘Event Activation’, have hardly come Amenity standards currently being across hotels creating a specialized enforced in the name of global parity to-order occasions created out of thin The ‘Indian Promotion marketing center to add commercial is absurd. There have been investments air or a six-month-long meticulously Bureau’ states ‘Of a total of 8,294 value to their event spaces apart from made in crores to create a profitable designed wedding, hotels in India never events tracked, India has a market share a few branded five-star hotel chains. At entity, and have left Indian hoteliers had it this good. The Indian hospitality of 1.1% (Asia & the Middle East has most hotels the banquet management in the lurch, not necessarily due to the industry’s unique revenue trait, where 19.5% share) with an estimated size team, is not necessarily your Event economic situations we endure. Food & Beverage contributes more of the MICE industry in India around to the revenue kitty than the segment marketing team. The revenue stream One set of hotels in Bangalore with a Rs 4,000 – 5,500 crores. Still, a very is credited. The Meetings industry’s can just bigger with inputs of Food combined inventory of 500 rooms, a minuscule part of a global market space mite seldom goes challenged with the & Beverage, rental of audio-Visual couple of international brands to make of over USD 65) Billion! discerning Indian finds more occasions equipment, hall rental charges, accrued the owners feel proud, has meeting to celebrate! Events to celebrate business from rooms, etc. room infrastructure of a banquet hall anniversaries, birthdays, kitty parties, Personal Events: Unique Indian Speaking about the new era hotels measuring 2500 square feet! How do family and friend’s get-togethers, Perspective that seem to be flooding the market you explain to a prospective client, naming ceremonies and of course, the What goes into a family in selecting a with imported standards especially who wishes to book a hotel for his big fat Indian wedding all bring cheer suitable venue to create an event out of from Europe and US, who seem more mega residential conference or wants Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P19

IMAGE CREDIT: JAZMIN QUAYNOR

to host his big fat Indian wedding, centers such as Event Spaces, Health is not far. Creating and managing an continue to add opportunities in terms that he can take his room business, Clubs and one might be tempted to add ‘Event Space brand’ will bring in Event of weddings and social gatherings, but has no venue to host the banquet! Laundry services to the list! standards, improved guest feedback corporate sales conferences, product Indians, by trait, need any excuse to What’s in for the hotels? What does and enhanced occupancies. Creating launches, etc. With made-to-order get a gathering on to host a lunch or it take to position your event spaces unique brand identities and focus for occasions created out of thin air or a dinner, whether it is for a baby naming amid your glowing hotel brand? If Event spaces will also take on branded six-month-long meticulously designed ceremony or an anniversary party. The your Event Spaces Food & Beverage hotels especially in the four- and five- wedding, hotels in India never had scorn for Food and Beverage sales is contribute more than 30% of your star segment. It is not far ahead that, it this good. The Indian hospitality not justified, when in India, sometimes turnover, get it a branding strategy! The with the increased demands with industry’s unique revenue trait, where F&B sales constitute up to 50% of hotel brands bring with its standards regard to technology, enhanced client Food & Beverage contributes more revenue. It should do well for hotels to and total recall, but the right unique requirements, the era of specialized to the revenue kitty than the segment broad base their client profile. For city brand identity for your event space companies managing Event spaces is credited. The Meetings industry’s hotels, corporate business is welcome, will make it stand out amid hardened are not far behind! Outsourced Venue mite seldom goes challenged with the business on weekends is priceless! competition. In an era when hotel Management! discerning Indian finds more occasions Somehow hotels around the world have projects are more often part of a multi- to celebrate! Events to celebrate always been reluctant a radical shift in use facility with retail, residences and More Action in Smaller Cities anniversaries, birthdays, kitty parties, branding strategy. But in an era, where commercial spaces thrown in, event The action is not limited to the bigger family and friend’s get-togethers, competition gets fierce, specialization spaces will have to strive its own metros. More action is happening in naming ceremonies and of course, the takes over, it is never too late to reinforce unique niche. A day when you will have tier 2 and tier 3 cities. When smaller big fat Indian wedding all bring cheer branding standards on individual profit branded and franchised event spaces cities vie for action, meeting spaces to the table! Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P20 Banyan Tree Phuket organizes MICE tour for Indians

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ine leading outbound MICE Ntour operators and travel agents from India were invited to visit Banyan Tree Phuket and Angsana Laguna Phuket, as part of a familiarization (FAM) trip organized by the two hotels in association with airline partner Indigo and on-ground partner Travel Bullz. Banyan Tree Phuket Area Director of Sales & Marketing, Shannon Creado and Angsana Laguna Phuket Area General Manager, Michael Zitek, welcomed and accompanied the tour operators during the familiarization. The MICE agents were given a product presentation and detailed information on the offerings and benefits of booking with Banyan Tree Phuket and Angsana Laguna Phuket at special rates for the Indian market. FAM TRIP: MICE tour operators from India visit Banyan Tree Phuket and Angsana Laguna Phuket in association with Creado said, “We are seeing a huge IndiGo Airlines & Travel Bullz. opportunity in the Indian MICE sector especially with weddings and an in-depth understanding about the operators from India and look Ankush Nijhawan, Managing special occasions. Our experiences properties, their service and cultural forward to working very closely with Director-Nijhawan Group, said, “Our are uniquely designed keeping in insights that are outlined to cater to them to cater to the ever-growing key focus is to bring milestone events, mind the requirements the organizers these segments of the Indian market. market of corporates, weddings and special events, weddings, corporate and their guests. Our all Pool villa During their visit, the agents explored event in India, especially now with and MICE groups to experience the resort and brand values are one-of- select offerings of luxurious stays, the launch of our new venue ACES.” world-class hospitality and services a-kind and promise an exclusive conference rooms, event facilities, To enhance their experience, the at Banyan Tree Phuket and Angsana experience, catering to the needs of world-class cuisine and wellbeing properties also showcased multiple Laguna Phuket. Nijhawan Group’s those who book with us.” Offering therapies of both Banyan Tree Phuket activities to showcase the beautiful continuous support will educate crafted experiences for leisure and and Angsana Laguna Phuket. destination that is the island of the MICE, corporate and wedding MICE, Banyan Tree Phuket and Zitek said, “We are thrilled to Phuket along with shopping and operators about the products in India Angsana Laguna Phuket aim to create welcome some of the leading MICE local experiences. market.” Seoul debuts Int’l Bar Association Annual Conference

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eoul’s debut hosting of SInternational Bar Association (IBA) Annual Conference is the latest example of one of several major global organizations utilizing the city’s popular PLUS SEOUL support programs and services for meetings this fall. The large-scale gathering of the legal profession follows in the footsteps of the International Standards Organization (ISO)’s TC258 Plenary Meeting from Sept. 23-27, while the Computer Vision Foundation (CVF) and IEEE Computer Society will bring ICCV Expo 2019 to Seoul from Oct. 29 – Nov. 1, all using PLUS SEOUL to enhance their activities. Hosted at Coex, Seoul’s largest meeting facility, the IBA Conference AT COEX___: The IBA Conference was held in Korea’s capital for the first time since the association’s inception in 1947. was held in Korea’s capital for the first time since the association’s at Seoul Dragon City, a new Accor hotel to hosting. This includes bidding highly-safe and capable international inception in 1947. Attended by some complex in Seoul’s Yongsan district. clinic, promotion, site inspections of event destination has contributed 5,000 legal professionals from 120 The gathering was attended by 60 ISO recommended venues, conference strongly to its selection by event countries, the event also featured a representatives from 38 countries. apps, and other programs, plus the planners for global conferences. The strong local government presence, Also set to take place at Coex, ICCV option to use local trained multilingual city currently ranks in third place including Mayor of Seoul Park Won- 2019 will unite 5,000 individuals in operational event staff. PLUS SEOUL worldwide for the number of meetings soon, former UN Secretary-General the field of computer vision, including also provides highly-customized hosted the previous year, according to Ban Ki-moon, and a video message academics, professionals, researchers, add-on features for events, ranging the latest UIA International Meetings from President Moon Jae-in. and students. from branded and partial Statistics Report – a position it has Meanwhile, the ISO TC258 Plenary Upgraded for 2019, PLUS SEOUL bus wraps to special teambuilding now held four years’ running. Seoul Meeting – one of many annual ISO provides a wide range of support for activities, cultural performances, also sits in 15th place in the ICCA city gatherings hosted in Seoul – took place international conferences from bidding and more. Seoul’s attractiveness as a ranking. Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P21

IMAGE CREDIT: STEVEN UNGERMANN THE HOTEL ROOM FUTURE VW BUREAU in, room keys, upgrades, and check- one step further, many hotels are as intelligent and intuitive. With out. With the implementation of a looking into creating “connected mobile-based innovation, hoteliers aplox, a developer of mobile mobile key technology platform, rooms” for their guests. Connected can completely transform the guest Zguest journey software for you can offer each guest a complete rooms would give guests complete experience to be seamless, simplified, hotels and casinos, has come up with mobile experience. This includes control — from their mobile device flexible and frictionless. Hotels interesting insights to decode the reservations, pre-arrival messages, — to turn off on and lights, adjust of the future will deliver guests a hotel rooms of the future. mobile check-in, mobile keys, the heat or air conditioning, adjust personalized experience where the Technology is continually evolving special offers, upgrades, mobile window covering, and personalize room knows them, and they know at a rapid pace, leaving industries check-out and more. their room entertain entertainment their room. eager to remain ahead of the With this technology in place, you with technology. advancements that continue to can effectively nullify the traditional redefine their respective offerings hassle of front desk lines and check- The era of complete personalization Hotel room and demands. Within the hospitality in delays for a seamless arrival. Not With the help of mobile platforms Technologies industry, we see hotels investing in only that, but guests can directly utilized within hotels, guests new technology to meet emerging access their room using their will even be able to save specific · Intelligent mini-bars (which guest expectations and define what smartphone, manage their rooms, preferences before an upcoming automatically notify staff the hotel room of the future looks view and act on special offers and stay. For example, if a guest has when replenishment like. When it comes to the ongoing upgrades based on their stay, check- a preferred room temperature or is needed) mobile-centric movement, most out and book their next stay right lighting setting, they can set the · Bathroom mirrors that hotel services will be accessible right from their phone. When you perfect room to those specifications before conceal flat screen TVs from the palm of guests’ hands as the basics, you guest is free to view they arrive, directly through the · Adjustable massage beds hoteliers seek to simplify the travel (and interact with) your hotel with app. Guests can also establish voice- · Smartglass shower walls experience at every turn. This means a new, uninhibited perspective. activated preferences for certain that morph from frosted that many traditional and manual Further to that, you’re also freeing TV shows, channels, apps and to transparent with the functions will soon be available at your staff to invest their time in more other commands to limit time spent single press of a button the touch of a screen, delivering personalized, genuine interactions scrolling or searching for a specific · AI and Voice-enabled constant connection and personalized with each guest. With the driving offer or information. personal assistants convenience to each and every guest. trend in hospitality innovation being This technology will also ensure · The provision of personal the personalization of the guest each guest is connected to virtual iPads/tablets Simplifying the basics experience, this capability is of assistance 24/7 for any and all · Bedside tables that Nothing can ruin a guest’s incredible value to your hotel. requests (alarms, room service, wirelessly charge cell phone perception of your hotel, quite like housekeeping services and more) by the breakdown of primary touch- Connected hotel rooms voice or app. -SOURCE: Zaplox points, such as reservations, check- Taking the mobile device integration The hotel room of the future is Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P22 The Rising

MICESegment in Asia

IMAGE CREDIT: ALEJANDRO CARTAGENA

VW BUREAU According to the World Travel According to the World Travel Travel agencies continue to play an Monitor, between January and August Monitor®, Asians stayed for an important role sia’s growing economy is having 2019 outbound travel from Asia rose average of 5.9 nights on outbound While Asians continue to rely heavily Aa positive impact on the business by six per cent, once again making trips. This was a slight increase over on the internet for information and travel market. From January to August Asia the biggest growth driver in the last year’s figure (5.6 overnights). bookings, nearly 50 per cent of Asian 2019, 17 per cent of Asians traveling market. ”Growth However, the figure was much lower travelers still attach great importance abroad were on business / MICE trips, in Asia’s foreign travel market than the global average (eight nights). to the personal advice offered by travel which compared to the previous year continues to exceed the global average, Despite this, at 1,570 euros per trip agencies. Furthermore, they make was an above-average increase of which during the first eight months spending by Asians abroad during the much greater use of this individual eight per cent. The MICE segment, of the year was only four per cent“, service than the global average. The with incentive travel and trips to trade said Julia Mühlberger, marketing first eight months of 2019 significantly exceeded the global average (1,280 World Travel Monitor shows that fairs, was largely responsible for this consultant, IPK International, at ITB during the first eight months of 2019 growth, whereas traditional business Asia 2019. euros). 85 per cent of Asian outbound travelers trips were in decline. A closer look at the latest figures booked over the internet but also 40 Trips abroad from Asia are continuing shows a further upward trend in trips City breaks are booming per cent at travel agencies. to increase. After surging by seven to destinations within Asia. During Among Asians, city breaks remain per cent in 2018, during the first the first eight months of 2019, for the by far the most popular form of Slower growth expected in 2020 eight months of 2019 they rose by first time foreign trips within Asia outbound travel. They recorded the According to IPK International, in a further six per cent. This is in part accounted for nearly 80 per cent of highest increase, as in the year before, due to international trips within Asia, the market. During the same period 2020 outbound by Asians and between January and August will grow by five per cent, outpacing which are a significant growth driver. European countries registered a slight 2019 grew by a further nine per cent, Despite an anticipated decline in year- increase in travelers from Asia. At 15 the forecasted global trend. Against occupying 35 per cent of the market. on-year growth, the prospects for 2020 per cent, they occupied a sound share the backdrop of global economic Following a downturn last year, remain good. These are the findings of the market. In contrast, America’s developments, the experts anticipate of the first trend analysis of the World popularity with Asian travelers fell round trips recovered. Asia’s second- slightly lower growth rates for next Travel Monitor, to be presented by IPK for the third year running. The country largest holiday market grew slightly year. These forecasts are based International at this year’s ITB Asia in now accounts for only eight per cent of by three per cent and accounted a on the findings of the “World Singapore. the market. market share of 24 per cent. Beach Travel Confidence Index” of IPK Per trip, Asian travelers spend holidays continued the previous year’s International, which as part of World Growth in Asia’s outbound travel considerably more than other upward trend, rising by 6 per cent and Travel Monitor polls people’s travel market exceeds global average nationalities, despite shorter stays. occupying 21 per cent of the market. intentions for the next 12 months. Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P23 ‘Travel agents must provide experiential trips’ CAROLINE DIANA and provide their clients with unique Social media has become an and lesser-known experiences, that inevitable communication tool to he travel and hospitality industry they cannot get elsewhere. influence consumers on various Thas evolved significantly over practices. We, at IHCL, have created the years. Delna Jasoomoney, Guests With the advent of social media, the first of its kind, command center Associate Vice President, Travel travelers have started looking called Taj. Live. This enables us Industry Sales, The Indian Hotels today are for recommendations through to monitor in real-time all social Company Ltd., sheds light on how looking trending hashtags. How have this media activity across the world properties can go the extra mile to impacted Indian hotels? that is pertinent to our hotels. It, capture the hearts of customers. for personalized, curated The impact of social media on therefore, enables us to be more experiences and are the travel industry is tremendous, agile, intuitive and responsive to Besides the cost and location, willing to explore the especially in its holiday travel all our customers’ requirements and what are the three key elements segment. The role and impact of feedback. At all Taj, SeleQtions and that people look at when booking new. social media on the travel planning Vivanta hotels, we strive to provide a hotel? process are before, during and after warm and unmatchable hospitality Guests today are looking for DELNA JASOOMONEY the trip, providing insights on usage to our guests for an unforgettable personalized, curated experiences Associate VP, Travel Industry Sales, The levels, the scope of use, level of experience. and are willing to explore the new Indian Hotels Company Ltd. influence, and trust. Social media are and the unknown and while doing predominantly used after holidays How has the travel and hospitality so they are in a constant pursuit for offer our loyal customers, multiple for experience sharing. There is a industry evolved over the last immersive experiences, steeped in options and choices. strong correlation between the level three years? local traditions, rituals, and cuisines of influence from social media and The travel and hospitality industry coupled with special experiences What are the key aspects that a changes made to holiday plans. To has evolved significantly through that stand out. travel agent should consider while most people today, predominantly the years. Consumers have started We provide experiences beyond recommending a hotel to a client? millennials and Gen Z - user- looking for a holistic experience, the accommodation for our guests The added value that travel agents generated content is more trusted hyper-personalization, shorter to enjoy the experience of the add to any holiday is to provide than official tourism websites, travel breaks, reconnecting with friends destination, they are in; from local an experiential trip to their clients. agents, and mass media advertising. & family, milestone celebration F&B offerings to wellness, to unique From choosing a destination to a holidays, Bleisure and solo trips. experiences that allow guests to hotel to all the activities that go along Today’s guests are highly Millennials have started traveling reconnect and refresh, when on with it. People today are looking demanding. With every positive more often which in turn gives a holiday. In keeping with this, we for much more than what they can and negative review going up boost to the economy at large. The at IHCL are not only expanding go online and purchase. In order on social media, what steps are consumers rely heavily on digital our portfolio but opening new and to stay relevant, a travel agent must the hotels taking to ensure that platforms and social media for a unique destinations such as the have in-depth knowledge about the the guests enjoy their stay at the seamless process in taking a decision Andamans, Theog, Rishikesh, etc. to destination they are recommending property? when it comes to traveling.

growth and establish an opportunity to create a brand new market. Medium sized Indian cities have emerged as one of the fastest growing markets or quality leisure products and 'Holiday Expo' is just the perfect Travel Exhibition reachout to this very market, thus ensuring your product profits to its optimum potential.

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IMAGE CREDIT: NATHAN DUMLAO Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P24 FESTIVALS of the WORLD

Olive and Olive Oil Festival November 9-11, Spain

Fan of olives? Then head to the Spanish town of Baena, located in the Province of Córdoba, Andalusia. This enchanting province will play host to the annual Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Olive and Olive Oil Festival (Las Jornadas del Olivar y el Aceite), a three-day November 15- December 1, Japan event that celebrates the end of the olive harvest. The program includes a Jingu Gaien Ginkgo is an annual autumn festival at Jingu Gaien, wine and food market where you can buy various kinds of olives and olive oil, which centers around the perfectly shaped, sunset-yellow cooking demonstrations, workshops, exhibitions, concerts, culinary contests, ginkgo trees that form a 300m-long boulevard stretching live music, dancing, and more. Baena is located in the region of Andalusia that between Gaienmae and Aoyama-itchome stations. This is Tokyo’s accounts for some 75% of Spain’s production of olive oil. While at Baena, you quintessential autumn scenery, which has graced countless can also visit the Olive Museum that opened in 1993. The museum aims to Instagram accounts. Enjoy the golden foliage together with some present the most important aspects of the olive culture. It hosts an exhibition typical seasonal fare, sold at the many food stalls around the dedicated to the diverse uses of olive oil, various educational activities and Gondawara area and at Nikoniko Park just around the corner temporary exhibitions, a library, and an archive. from the trees.

Espelette Pepper Harvest & Festival October 30 - December 1, France

If you are a fan of spices, especially peppers, Espelette is the place to be. Legend has it that a Basque sailor who accompanied Christopher Columbus on his adventures, came back to his native town, bringing back some dark-red chilli peppers with him. Today, this spice is an integral part of Basque cuisine and the specific variety grown in this area is named Piment d’Espelette. When the summer comes to end, people harvest the peppers and hang them up on facades, windows, and balconies of houses to allow them to dry out. The harvest is at its peak for ten weeks between mid-August and late October, but the season continues well into November and until December 1, when the first frosts come. The houses in Espelette are mostly white. As a result, the entire town turns into perfect scenery for taking some pictures and videos. Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival November 13, United Kingdom

Get set for UK’s only Ice Jet ride, featuring a fantastic sound and light show. The Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival is returning for 2019 and the iconic waterfront location will be dramatically altered for the season, packed with family-friendly attractions including a large ice rink, ice-themed rides, a funfair, and food stalls. The large outdoor rink returns to the Pier Head venue complete with a canopy for skating whatever the weather. Due to popular demand last year, the availability of penguin skate aids has been doubled and are available to book online now, along with ice skating tickets. Festival-goers can enjoy the thrills of the UK’s longest ice slide with three, 30-meter-long slides for an exhilarating ride and panoramic views of the iconic Three Graces due to its elevated position. A fun day out for all, the pop-up food and drink stalls complete the experience, selling a variety of seasonal treats including traditional German bratwurst, mulled wine, and hot chocolate.

Suwanee Wine Fest 2019 November 2, United States

Enjoy an array of wines from around the world and craft beer samples. Grab complimentary food samples, live entertainment, delicious food for purchase, and a variety of activities + shopping experiences provided by vendors. November 2 marks the 7th Annual Suwanee Wine Festival, brought to you by organizers of the award-winning Suwanee American Craft Beer Fest. Local wine experts from Beverage SuperStore will hand-select over 150 premium wines from around the world for you to sample. New this is year is the addition of the Georgia Wine Trail. The organizers have worked hard with Georgia Wineries to create a special tasting experience. Georgia Wine Trail ticket holders will have access to one exclusive wine at each Georgia Winery tent. Wine Trail ticket can be purchased as General Admission or VIP. Suwanee Wine Fest is proud to announce Annandale Village as its benefiting charity.

The Rolling Stone Beach Festival November 15 &16, Germany The Rolling Stone Beach Festival will take place in the holiday resort Weissenhäuser Strand, situated right at the coast of the Baltic Sea. The resort provides fully equipped apartments, hotel rooms and several , cafés and bars. The concerts and performances take place indoors on three stages and several unexpected floors. And when, after a long night of dancing and head-banging the neck feels a bit stiff and the head a bit heavy, a nice walk on the beach or a jump in the pool followed by some time in the sauna or a relaxing massage will feel just right and help to get one’s energy back. The Rolling Stone Beach Festival combines the fun part with the recreational effect of a short trip. It is a rock festival - but you won’t have to take a couple of days off to recover afterward.

Loi Krathong November 13, Thailand

Every year, Thailand celebrates an interesting festival called Loi Krathong, which roughly translates to “float a basket.” The festival takes place on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar. This year, the event takes place in November. According to King Rama IV, writing in 1863, it was a Brahmanical festival that was adapted by Thai Buddhists in Thailand to honor the Buddha, Prince Siddhartha Gautama. The candle venerates the Buddha with light, while the krathong's floating away symbolizes letting go of all one's hatred, anger, and defilements. People sometimes cut their fingernails or hair and place the clippings on the krathong as a symbol of letting go of past transgressions and negative thoughts. Many Thais use the krathong to thank the Goddess of Water, the Hindu Goddess Ganga, Phra Mae Khongkha. EVENTREPORT Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P26 IITM 2019 Delhi & Mumbai highlights

VW BUREAU the travel industry and discerning and hospitality industries. The time productive countries for the travel trade buyers from the travel trade and for IITM Delhi was perfect for the industry both for leisure and business his September, the Indian travel corporate sector an opportunity to do upcoming holiday season in India, travel. A combination of factors is Ttrade community came under one business. Dussehra (Vijayadashami also known responsible for the growth and demand roof to discover more opportunities to IITM showcased a variety of as Dasara, Dussehra or Dussehra is of travel trends from India. The visitor increase both inbound and outbound destinations from different spheres such a major Hindu festival celebrated at profile is on a B2B & B2C format like travel figures. as pilgrimages, adventures, culture and the end of Navratri every year) and and will have over 15,000 buyers over Sphere Travelmedia & Exhibitions heritage, beaches, hills and much more. Deepavali, with long weekends as well three days”. hosted the 117th and 118th edition of The participants included travel agents as round-the-year travel, and Tourism Studies and Trends indicate ‘India International Travel Mart’ in and tour operators, DMCs, hotels and business plans. that the year 2018 – 19 will see these two cities to connect buyers with resorts, national tourist organizations, Speaking on the occasion, Sanjay more than 20 million Indian tourists sellers, both national and international. cruises, airlines, online travel portals Hakhu, Director, Sphere TravelMedia embanking on overseas travel and with With this year’s edition of IITM Delhi, etc. said, “India in spite of the present the advent of low-cost international Sphere Travelmedia & Exhibitions The three-day event will showcased business environment is fast emerging airfares and holiday packages that completes twenty years of providing glimpses from the travel, tourism as one of the most interesting and are available on monthly instalments Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P27

payable over a period of time, adventure trips, cultural pursuits, unmatched networking opportunities and acts as a catalyst for the furthering International travel is no longer a shopping tours, etc. to interact with Travel-Trade and the economic growth in view of its luxury. The India International Travel Corporate Buyers alike. wide-ranging linkage effects and Some of the international players who Mart provides an ideal marketing Rohit Hangal, Director, Sphere multiple impacts. The participants took part in this year’s IITM were opportunity and excellent backdrop to Travelmedia added, ‘The domestic from the states of Karnataka, Kerala, Bhutan, Iceland, Nepal, Thailand, enhance the participant’s brand-equity travel is the backbone’ of India’s Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and more. Delhi was the ‘Host State’ in the eyes of the discerning end tourism portfolio with an estimated Himachal Pradesh, and many more while Jharkhand was the ‘Feature consumer and the travel-trade. 561 million domestic tourist visits. destinations will be seen aggressively Destination’ at the event. Other states This segment is probably only second marketing their products will be that were represented in these travel Boost for to China in terms of sheer size. With the there with their travel and tourism marts include Karnataka, Maharashtra, The event showcases travel and rapid economic development taking stakeholders”. Kerala, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, hospitality products from every part place in the country and availability of IITM 2019 is the region’s premier Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and more. of the country, making it one of the greater disposable income combined B2B & B2C networking opportunity, Diverse tourism segments were on biggest congregations of travel-trade with affordable holiday packages, for all professionals within this ever- display, such as pilgrimage travel, in the country. The event provides tourism in India is increasing steadily growing industry. FLIGHTTALK JFK Airport launches facial recognition boarding VW BUREAU Terminal One is a partnership between growing quicker within their existing save time and gain efficiencies. Vision-Box, TOGA, and US Customs footprint. Our Vision-Box Orchestra HOW IT WORKS ision-Box and Terminal One and Border Protection (CBP). With platform enables airports and 1. The passenger approaches a self-boarding eGate. Group Association (TOGA) rising passenger volumes and demand airline’s capacity to grow digital and V 2. A biometric-enabled camera have announced a landmark for quicker and contactless processes, substantially improve performance ergonomically integrated in the agreement providing seamless TOGA turned to seamless biometrics as indicators, while seamlessly securing eGate captures the passenger’s biometric boarding at New York’s a primary solution. Boarding airplanes passenger’s journey and privacy.” facial image. John F. Kennedy International with up to 500 passengers in under 20 The biometric platform is designed 3. The image is securely sent to Airport (JFK). Lufthansa is the minutes have tremendously improved to securely identify travelers with a the CBP TVS (Traveler launch carrier deploying the one- the guest experience with using facial brief glance at a camera and instantly Verification Service), which step paperless biometric boarding recognition to replace and verify their identity with US CBP. conducts a matching process process at their largest US gateway. boarding pass checks. The seamless and efficient one-step with the stored digital facial Air France, Japan Airlines, and Miguel Leitmann, CEO and Founder process validates the eligibility of the token, captured at the initial Norwegian Airlines are expected of Vision-Box, said, “It’s become traveler without having to present a immigration process or to follow suit, as part of all 22 crucial for airports and airlines to passport or boarding pass. Aircraft from the US passport. international carriers operating from adopt biometric capabilities along the entry is accomplished with a full 4. Within seconds the system JFK Terminal 1. processes which require interaction digital boarding experience, where reconciles the passenger The digital advancement of the with the traveler, therefore enhancing passengers are boarded in a seamless identity and his eligibility to enter the flight.· passenger experience at JFK’s and scaling operational capacity for and paced way, allowing the airlines to

More options from T3 for flydubai passengers VW BUREAU

ubai-based carrier flydubai has Dannounced that flights to seven destinations will move from their current operating base of Terminal 2 and relocate to Terminal 3 at Dubai International (DXB). Other flydubai services will continue to operate from Terminal 2. From October 27, flights to Almaty, Basra, Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Nur-Sultan, Sofia, and Zanzibar will operate from Terminal 3. Flights to these destinations before October 27 will continue to operate from Terminal 2. These destinations have been chosen to help improve connections between Emirates and flydubai with smooth and quick transit times.The additional 07 points will bring the number of destinations operated out of Terminal 3 at Dubai International (DXB) to 22. This move is part of the innovative partnership with Emirates that goes beyond code sharing to several initiatives spanning commercial, network planning, airport operations, the alignment of the frequent flyer programs and an enhanced customer journey. “As our partnership with Emirates continues to grow, the addition of these seven destinations to Terminal 3 builds on the success of last year’s move and provides more opportunities for us to optimize connectivity for our passengers,” said Alex Mackenzie, Senior Vice President, Airport Services at flydubai. “By working closely together, Emirates and flydubai are able to offer passengers even more options to travel and to connect from the world’s busiest airport,” he added. Passengers booked to travel to these destinations will be able to check-in for their flight at the Business Class and Economy Class desks in the departures area of Terminal 3. Business Class passengers will be able to enjoy lounge access and fast track services through immigration and security, while transiting passengers benefit from faster connection times. Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P29 2019 What to look forward to

IMAGE CREDIT: BEN GARRATT

ACROSS THE TWO DAYS OF TRAVEL FORWARD DELEGATES WILL HAVE LEARNED ABOUT THE TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT TECHNOLOGY ACROSS THE TRAVEL LANDSCAPE, AND HOW TO HARNESS DIGITAL CAPABILITIES TO DELIVER ON THE JOINT GOALS OF BETTER CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES, AND SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS VALUE.

VW BUREAU She started her career as a consultant Their recent flagship project was the He will be followed by Accor’s Frederic at Accenture before joining Google new KLM Crown Lounge at Schiphol Fontaine who will use case studies elegates at Travel Forward – 13 years ago, and is also a mentor for Airport, which welcomes 5,000 visitors from the hotel giant to demonstrate Dthe travel technology event co- Ceresa, a mentoring initiative to help from around the world every day. how organizations can change in a located with WTM London – will hear more women take on leadership roles. She will be followed by three sustainable way, and put the customer from the likes of Google, Facebook She will be followed by Harj Dhaliwal speakers for the session entitled ‘The at the center of their planning. and Expedia about hi-tech ways from Virgin Hyperloop One, a zero-friction customer journey’ – In the Final Panel: Rethinking digital that travel will innovate from 2020 pioneering mass transit system that Alex Dalman from advertising and transformation session, speakers and onwards. aims to transport people and goods at marketing firm VCCP; Morwenna panelists from across the two days will Expert speakers from global tech nearly 700 miles per hour. Francis from EasyJet; and Siobhan review insights and discuss: how can giants will join executives from Plans for the world’s first hyperloop McWeeny from Facebook. delegates take these learnings forward, multinational travel firms such as project have been approved in India, Dalman helped to create easyJet’s embracing strategies to deliver easyJet, Accor and KLM at a two- aiming to link Pune and Mumbai in Look&Book app which enables users innovation across their organizations? day conference, which is part of the less than 35 minutes – compared to to book a flight from just a photograph Richard Gayle, Event Manager for three-day Travel Forward (Monday 4 the current three-and-a-half-hour road and she will join Francis to discuss Travel Forward said: “Last year’s – Wednesday 6 November). journey. how it has helped the no-frills airline. inaugural event was a great success The keynote speaker on the first Dhaliwal will outline how the $10 McWeeny will reveal trends and and we’re building on that to offer morning (November 4) is Becky billion scheme can create a blueprint insights from Facebook showing delegates even more in 2019 – more Power from Google UK, who will for a hyperloop network across India delegates how they can reduce friction ideas about how the industry will discuss how advances in digital – and update delegates about plans for for customers. look in the 2020s and more solutions technology can help travel businesses similar Virgin Hyperloop One projects The keynote speech about Generation to overcome the biggest challenges to stay competitive and improve across the globe, from the US to the Alpha by Andrew van der Feltz, from facing the travel industry. customer loyalty. Middle East. Expedia Group Media Solutions, “Travel Forward is the event that Her session will look at the latest The afternoon sessions will showcase will feature research findings of the embraces fresh concepts and innovations in the travel industry, hi-tech ways to improve the experience emerging cohort of travelers born innovative projects to inspire with case studies outlining how for leisure and business travelers. after 2010. They have grown up with delegates. The motivational speakers technology has been successfully Anette Schouls from KLM will talk technology, digital content and instant in our keynote theatre will share applied within the industry – and how about how she and her team harness gratification and can influence family their stories of entrepreneurship and these breakthroughs been driven by the latest digital technology to help holiday decisions and the future of cutting-edge technology, which will the changing needs of consumers. the airline’s passengers. travel. galvanize our visitors,” he said. India’s Premier Travel & Tourism Exhibition

Ensure your place in the most happening destination of travel! EVENTS CALENDAR A Spectacular showcase to stimulate the Domestic and Outbound travel industry. More customers, business improvements strategies, star status, 2019-20 wide audience and extra mileage. Everything to lead your business to non-stop activity-only at IITM. Pune Discover a great new potential and reap greater pro ts. 29, 30 Nov, 01 Dec 2019 Real excitement as you’ve always desired!

Hyderabad Supported by Partner Associations 06, 07, 08 Dec 2019 Kochi 23, 24, 25 Jan 2020 Kolkata Member 21, 22, 23 Feb 2020

SPHERE TRAVELMEDIA & EXHIBITIONS PVT. LTD. , th Main, Amar yothi Layout, Domlur, engaluru , India. P inoiitmindia.com www.iitmindia.com www.spheretravelmedia.com Thomas Cook unveils ‘Double Protection’ VW BUREAU their holidays with Thomas Cook India are protected, Thomas Cook India’s Trip homas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s Protection and Guaranteed Departures Tleading integrated travel and travel Programs have been designed to secure related financial services company, has its customers best interests. introduced ‘Trip Protection Program’ Under the Trip Protection Program, and ‘Guaranteed Departures’, two customers can avail reduced cancellation unique offerings aimed at protecting the charges for international bookings Indian traveler interests. The program depending on the number of days prior ensure a stress free period between to departure date and in view of any the booking and departure window, unforeseen circumstances; including by guaranteeing departures, as well as visa rejection or delay, hospitalization reduced cancellation fees, in case of or death of a family member and blood any unforeseen circumstances. Thomas relatives. The program covers Thomas Cook India operated 98% of the Cook India’s Simply Series product departures announced in 2019, which offering as well as destinations such as India’s Premier Travel & Tourism Exhibition is amongst the highest in the industry, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, encouraging the brand to introduce the Europe and USA. While normally program. customers stand to lose in case of any Travel has become non-negotiable for cancellations made between 46-59 days Indians today. With schools closed, the prior to departure, under this offering, summer and winter breaks continue the cancellation fee for the same period BENEFIT: Under the Trip Protection Program, customers can avail reduced to remain key vacation periods for the stands as low as 5%*. The Guaranteed cancellation charges for international bookings. majority of Indian travelers. Thomas Departures Program on the other hand a customer’s holiday experience begins comprising Trip Protection + Guaranteed Cook India’s internal data further ensures guaranteed group departure* to much before their actual date of travel. Departures aimed at protecting traveller reveals a majority of consumers international destinations. It is therefore important for us to ensure interests does precisely that. So now booking their vacations well in advance Abraham Alapatt. President, Group that the holiday that they have booked customers, particularly those availing to ensure that their preferred dates are Head - Marketing, Service Quality & with us delivers a seamless experience our attractive early bird offers, can secured while making the best of early- Innovation, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., including a worry-free period from the rest assured and look forward to the bird offers. Keeping this in mind and said, booking date to the actual date of travel. memorable experiences that a Thomas to allow customers to rest assured that “We at Thomas Cook India, believe that Our unique ‘Double Protection Program’ Cook India Holiday ensures!” Travel Tours expands with new store in Mangaluru

VW BUREAU having Karnataka’s first Travel Tours store outside Bengaluru be launched in ravel Tours, the leisure travel Mangaluru, is strategically aligned with Tbrand of FCM Travel Solutions, Travel Tour’s vision for its southern has launched its first-ever store in market.” Mangaluru to increase their presence With the opening of this latest store in the south markets. This store will be the national reach for Travel Tours’ Travel Tours’ 40th such store in India extends to a total of 40 stores across and 6th in Karnataka. The store will Mumbai, Delhi, Chandigarh, Jalandhar, be inaugurated by the chief guest M Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Pune, Ravalnath Prabhu. Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, Anand Travel Tours aims to ensure their and Mangaluru via a combination of customers receive life-defining owned branches and newly opened Ensure your place in the most happening experiences every time they choose to franchise outlets. destination of travel! travel with them. As such, the stores are EVENTS CALENDAR A Spectacular showcase to stimulate the Domestic and Outbound travel designed to give consumers a convenient industry. More customers, business improvements strategies, star status, access to the best tour packages and 2019-20 wide audience and extra mileage. Everything to lead your business to options with unbeatable pricing and non-stop activity-only at IITM. quality services in leisure Travel. The Pune Discover a great new potential and reap greater pro ts. store at Bejai Road, Mangaluru offers a Real excitement as you’ve always desired! wide range of services such as domestic 29, 30 Nov, 01 Dec 2019 and international flights, customized and group holidays, hotels, car transfers, visa, cruise vacations, Hyderabad Supported by Partner Associations packages, adventure holidays and more. 06, 07, 08 Dec 2019 Anand Menon, Brand Leader, Travel Tours, Leisure Travel Brand of FCM Kochi Travel Solutions, said, “Focusing on 23, 24, 25 Jan 2020 high potential markets like Mangaluru has proven to be a growth driver for Member Travel Tours. Mangaluru has a unique Kolkata advantage of being a Tier-II city with 21, 22, 23 Feb 2020 a massive tourism potential, especially with its very own international airport. A primary aspect of tourism in the city is the outflow movement of travellers to the Gulf region but more recently the coastal city has tried to push tourism in different ways like cruise tourism. SPHERE TRAVELMEDIA & EXHIBITIONS PVT. LTD. Keeping these developments in mind, SOUTHERN PRESENCE: Travel Tours’ new store in Mangaluru is located on Bejai Road , th Main, Amar yothi Layout, Domlur, engaluru , India. P inoiitmindia.com www.iitmindia.com www.spheretravelmedia.com TRAVELTRENDS Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P32

TrendsTRAVEL AGENTS need to know

VW BUREAU changing industry. As data capture shift as monumental as NDC, and help enhance the booking experience. increasingly enables personalized who best to embrace these changing What’s more, a whopping 3 in 5 ccording to a recent APAC study human-to-machine interactions, it’s distribution dynamics than those who respondents indicate that personalized Aby Global travel technology up to the data owners to responsibly sell travel? Travel agencies are just as requests are the main reason why provider Sabre Corporation, several and intelligently leverage that data. eager as airlines and travel technology customers reach out, allowing them new travel trends have made it to As new data capture technologies companies like Sabre are committed to to create unique packages that reflect the list. The study, which compiled emerge in the travel industry, mindful decoding the new influx of information each traveler’s needs. insights from over 500 travel collaboration and transparency are in a way that makes sense to the travel professionals from 24 countries, has crucial to delivering success for all. consultant. Silver is Golden come up with interesting findings A network of industry partners is The Asian population is quickly aging, which would prove useful to travel shaping the landscape of travel Here are the top travel trends: with the region on track to have the agents around the world. Players like booking. Sabre’s mission is to lead Forever Young oldest population in the world in just Amazon and Google are often cited the way by integrating three new With more content for travelers a few decades. More than 40% of as the biggest influencers in the rise intelligent retailing solutions in Sabre to choose than ever before, it can consumers served by travel agents of online shopping, but as early as the Red 360: New Distribution Capability sometimes be difficult to cut through are over the age of 50, and over one- mid-nineties, airlines and agencies (NDC), New Airline Storefront, and the clutter. This means that travel third of those surveyed identified that began to offer travelers the option Content Services for Lodging. agents are more relevant than ever retirees are among their most popular to book tickets online. Around the before, acting as strategic allies for customers, just after families and same time, an online catalog of hotels NDC Dynamic Air Offers Add to travelers on a quest to book the best couples. In fact, 4 in 10 agents confirm became available for travelers around Traveler Options fare, and holiday. Travel professionals that travel for groups of retired people the world to browse and book. These Airlines leaders and industry experts reveal that those aged between 35-50 is on the rise, with packaged tours early players in the online travel space are working together to develop to the make up close to 60% of their customer listed as the main reason why people cemented the travel industry’s role in New Distribution Capability (NDC) base, proving that despite the rise of over 50 reach out to travel agents. the e-commerce revolution to come. standard and create a highly intelligent online platforms meant to facilitate A total of 46% of those included in Technology providers are constantly air shopping experience. It takes personal bookings, there’s nothing the 50-69 branch, and close to 60% exploring new ways to influence the partnership to achieve a paradigm quite like having a professional to of the 70 and over age group request Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P33

IMAGE CREDIT: ANNIE SPRATT

packaged tours that include flights, Sadly, the survey also reveals that only and below to book their next sport and business objectives,” he added. hotel, and transportation bookings, 2% of leisure travelers across Asia , which accounts for As the industry continues to evolve, with wellness or religious activities Pacific ask to purchase carbon credits. approximately 50% of group bookings, both airlines and agencies are looking often being the main reason for their or simply to identify better prices for to their technology providers to address bookings. The Gender Gap their customers, travel consultants are the greater need for personalization. With solo travel growing year on trained professionals who play a big part Sabre has launched Sabre Red 360 – Green Giant year, the Sabre Traveler Trends in making dreams come true. a revolutionary platform that changes Travel is a truly powerful tool, Survey discloses that in Asia, men “As the leading technology provider the way travel agents go about doing providing the ability to bring people account for 10% more of the solo to the global travel industry, Sabre is business with their customers. As and cultures closer together. However, travel bookings than women. When pleased to support suppliers, airlines, Sabre’s smartest workflow, Sabre with tourism rates continually rising it comes to bookings, women tend to hotels, and travelers with smart Red 360 is transforming how travel from one year to the next, the ecological prefer traveling in groups. However, technology solutions that facilitate agencies across the region book travel, footprint created by the travel industry when it’s time for a couples’ getaway, their end-to-end journey,” said brand and build their offer to better cannot be overlooked. Consumers the survey reveals that both parties do Todd Arthur, Vice President, Sabre cater to traveler needs. With the roll- in APAC are increasingly taking the their part, with nearly 40% of both men Travel Network Asia Pacific. “As we out in motion, and full-deployment environment into consideration when and women reaching out their travel look towards 2020 and continue to expected in 2020, Sabre connected making purchases and travel is no consultant to assist with the booking. reimagine the future of travel, Sabre travel consultants in Asia Pacific will different. Sabre’s Traveller Trend is committed to the development of soon be equipped with cutting-edge Survey found that over 60% of travel Me, Myself and I cutting-edge innovation that allows technology that has personalization consultants identified a growing As consumers across the board expect travel consultants to better know at its core. With Sabre Red 360, concern for the environment among customization to be part of their and better serve their customers. In agents will be better equipped to travelers. The survey also reveals that retail experience, a shocking 60% of a market as dynamic as Asia Pacific face the challenges brought on by the an impressive 70% of travelers are respondents indicate that personalization it is essential that travel consultants fast-changing travel landscape, and asking for sustainable tourism options, is the main reason why they are called leverage intelligent retailing practices turn these into profitable business and close to 30% are requesting for upon to book travel. Helping to fulfill and tools to ensure they maintain opportunities that will ensure their alternate modes of transportation. the growing demands of those aged 34 their competitive edge, and fulfil their business success, now and in the future. HAPPENINGS Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P34

Gold Medal to boost its India presence

old Medal, the largest travel consolidator in the Middle East, has Gexpanded its operations in India. Travel agents in India can now benefit from the company’s extensive sales, marketing, and operational expertise, advanced booking and reporting system, and excellent customer service. Gold Medal will initially provide its Indian customers with access to flight bookings, offering over 100 airline partners’ services at competitive rates. The company is planning to launch its full product portfolio, including also a hotel, car hire, insurance services and visas in India. Preetham Kiron, MD for Gold Medal in India, said, “Our broad partnership network and innovative solutions enable travel agents to efficiently manage and grow their business while providing the best possible services to their customers. Our dedicated team will ensure that our Indian partners can make the most out of our offering. Gold Medal will launch its offering in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad, as well as in other strategic locations in India.

IHCL adds 8 bungalows to Ama brand he Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the addition of Teight bungalows to its Ama Stays & Trails portfolio. The company signed six bungalows across multiple locations including new leisure destinations. It also opened two charming villas in Candolim, Goa. “Ama Stays & Trails is India’s first branded product. They are a group of heritage bungalows, guesthouses and homestays at unique locations across the country. With these exciting new additions, guests can now have a much wider choice of local and immersive experiences in off-beat destinations.” said Prabhat Verma, Executive Vice President – Operations, South India. The two villas in Goa are Cardozo House and Villa Braganza. The four bed-roomed Cardozo House is an exquisite heritage Goan cottage that has been restored to perfection. The signings include two bungalows in Maharashtra; one each in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and two in Kerala.

Hilton Mumbai adds fun to cake-mixing ith Christmas fast approaching, Hilton Mumbai International Airport Whas already begun to mix fun with festive cheer. This September, the team at Hilton Mumbai kicked off an enterprising cake-mixing ceremony, which witnessed participation from over 50 guests, comprising the young and the old alike. This is the hotel’s third annual X-mas cake mixing ceremony. “This event marks the start of Christmas festive period and this year, the hotel welcomed the guests with a melodious song performed by the singing talents of the hotel. A group photo session captured the spirit of Christmas before the proverbial ‘fruit soaking ceremony’ began. The joy on the faces of guests across all age groups was a sight to behold as the richness of colorful ingredients and the rich aroma filled the venue,” said Brijesh Singh, F&B Manager, Hilton Mumbai International Airport.

Sheraton Grand gets set for Xmas

heraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & brightened Sthe festive season as they recently hosted a spectacular Cake Mixing Ceremony. The Christmas cake mixing event was held in advance to let the nuts, dry fruits and assorted spirits infuse perfectly. With an elaborate set up, the breathtaking ambience of the hotel, festive décor and cuisines to match the festivities made it a perfect blend of aroma and cheer. The cake mixing was followed by a scrumptious Sunday brunch curated by the chefs at Feast. Faiz Alam Ansari, General Manager of the hotel, said, “We at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center gloriously celebrated our first cake mixing ceremony. The dedicated team of chefs organized a grand Sunday fare to follow the fun-filled activity of cake mixing for our associates and loyal guests. We look forward to hosting many more of such festivities at our hotel to become the ideal gathering place for the community.” Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P35

ITB Asia kicks off in Singapore TB Asia opened its doors at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Marina IBay Sands, Singapore. From October 16 to October 18, the show will see organizations from across the travel industry gathering to establish high- quality contacts and conduct business. The opening ceremony was graced by four guests-of-honor: Chee Hong Tat, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry and Ministry of Education, Republic of Singapore, who was attending for the second year running; Michael Müller, the Governing Mayor of Berlin, Federal Republic of Germany, who is attending ITB Asia for the first time; Dr Christian Göke, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Messe Berlin GmbH and Keith Tan, Chief Executive of Singapore Tourism Board. Katrina Leung, MD, Messe Berlin (Singapore), said, “Working in close collaboration with international exhibitors, travel companies and international buyers from across the MICE, leisure and corporate travel markets, we look forward to unveiling this year’s engaging and exciting programs that will benefit all.”

IATO awards Skyway for innovation kyway International Travels has bagged the Best Marketing Innovation SAward on CD/Video Category at the 35th IATO Convention held from 12- 15 September 12 to September 15. The event hosted at ITC Royal Bengal, Kolkata, under the theme, “Is Tourism Thriving? Challenges and Opportunities” witnessed participation from the Indian travel trade fraternity. Skyway has been the recipient of this award for the past three years. S. Mahalingaiah, Director and Venugopal, Sr. Manager from Skyway International Travels, received the award from Rajiv Mehra, Convention Chairman, IATO, and Sr. VP, E.M. Najeeb and Rajesh Mudgill, Hon. Secretary. Amidst mega fanfare, the IATO convention was inaugurated at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in Kolkata. A high-level government delegation including Goutam Deb, , West Bengal, Debashis Sen, Chairman, HIDCO & Addl Chief Secretary, Government of West Bengal, Jyoti Prakash Panigrahi, Minister for Tourism, Odia Language, Literature and Culture and Atri Bhattacharya, Principal Secretary Tourism, Government of West Bengal were present.

V.R. Costa Brava hosts networking session .R. Costa Brava, a destination management company specializing in the VCosta Brava region of Spain hosted its maiden networking event for the travel trade fraternity in Mumbai in September at Su Casa, Bandra. The objective was to introduce the company’s offerings and highlight its USPs among key tour operators, up-market leisure agents and media personnel with an aim to enhance commercial ties with the industry. The event commenced with a presentation by the organization’s founder Namrata Malu leading to an interactive session followed by a networking evening over cocktails. Less than two hours by road from Barcelona, Costa Brava is a year-round holiday destination with June to August being the busiest months for tourism while December to February have mild winters making it ideal for Indian tourists. Costa Brava is the coastal area that runs all the way from just above the city of Barcelona to the French border.

IHCL unveils Vivanta in Manipal he Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the signing of Ta Vivanta hotel in Manipal, Udupi, Karnataka. This hotel is a management contract with Harinath Builders & Developers Pvt. Ltd., a sister concern of Ballal Developers Ltd. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “The signing of Vivanta Manipal is aligned to Aspiration 2022 with its focus on aggressive domestic growth. We are delighted to have partnered with Ballal Developers for this hotel and through this association provide a contemporary suite of offerings to both business and leisure travelers.” Strategically located on the main Udupi – Manipal Road on NH 169A, Vivanta Manipal is just 1.5km from the campus of the world- famous Manipal Academy of Higher Education and is within walking distance of various shopping malls, commercial complexes, and entertainment options. The proposed hotel will comprise 100 well-furnished guest rooms. Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P36

THE ONLY MULTI DESTINATION EVENT THE ONLY B2B TRADE SHOW FOCUSSED ON OUTBOUND TRAVEL

India Edition 1 14th - 21st January 2020 Mumbai | Bengaluru | Chennai | Delhi

Middle East 16th - 19th February 2020 Dubai | Kuwait | Qatar | Oman (Optional) India Edition 2 16th - 20th March 2020 Mumbai | Ahmedabad | Jaipur | Delhi

A B2B trade event connecting buyers & suppliers of outbound travel industry from across the globe, o ering unparalleled networking & contracting opportunities.

• The Middle East Edition of OTR - 2018 witnessed a footfall of 550 eminent buyers across Dubai - Kuwait - Qatar - Oman. • India Edition 2 for 2018 held across Delhi - Ahmedabad - Mumbai witnessed an overwhelming presence of over 1200 buyers. • Over 1800 buyers attended the India - Edition 1 of OTR in January, 2019 across Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Mumbai. • OTR is the only focused buyer event on invitation basis; & witnesses key decision makers amongst the travel trade

For Participation Please Contact: Email: [email protected] | [email protected] Mob: +91 9945279001 | +91 9845238980 For Sponsorship Please Contact: Email: [email protected] Mob: +91 8748929534 www.outboundtravelroadshow.com Voyager’s World | October 2019 | P37 EXECUTIVE HIRES

Rahul Maini Tania Thomas General Manager, MarComm Manager, Jaipur Marriott Hotel Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield

ahul Maini has been appointed ania Thomas has been appointed Ras the General Manager of Tas the Marketing and Communi- Jaipur Marriott Hotel. He has over cations Manager at Sheraton Grand two decades of experience and have Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel and Con- handled several premier properties. vention Center. With over 10 years His career with the Marriott brand Anand Athavale of experience in Marketing Com- began with the Marriott Executive munications, Public Relations and Apartments and Renaissance Director-Sales & Marketing, Digital and Social Media Marketing (Mumbai), in March 2001. He The Leela Mumbai in the hospitality industry, she excels moved to various luxury properties Himanshu Kumar in brand management, marketing and since then. In his current role, he nand Athavale has been ap- Revenue Manager, corporate communications. At Sher- will work towards driving revenue Apointed as the new Director of The Leela Mumbai aton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Ho- and elevating and enhancing guest Sales and Marketing. A result-ori- tel and Convention Center, Thomas services. Rahul holds a Diploma ented professional with over 14 will be responsible for developing imanshu Kumar has been in Hotel Management, Catering years of experience, he brings with annual marketing communications appointed as the new Revenue Technology and Nutrition from him a wealth of expertise in the H plans, monitoring trends within the Manager of The Leela Mumbai. the National Council of Hotel sales and marketing domain. At The industry as well as maintaining rela- In his new role, Kumar will be Management. Leela Mumbai, Athavale’s core re- tionship with the media. looking after the company’s revenue sponsibilities will include planning function alongside the development and implementing of the hotel’s and implementation of the right sales and marketing strategy, max- rate strategy. He will also help the imizing hotel’s revenues, exploring brand to maintain a trajectory of business opportunities through growth, maximizing overall revenue events, setting annual budgets, fore- and identifying new business casting, analyzing revenue reports opportunities. Prior to joining The and strategy, amongst others. Leela Mumbai, he worked as the Director of Revenue Management at Double Tree by Hilton, Pune.

Aditya George Siddharth Pandey F&B Manager, Director of Revenue, Doubletree Suites by Hilton Novotel Hyderabad Bangalore

iddharth Pandey has been ditya George has joined Sappointed as the new Director ADoubleTree Suites by Hilton Anitha Simon of Revenue for Novotel Hyderabad Bangalore as the new Food and Convention Centre and Hyderabad Director-HR, Beverage Manager. George has a International Convention Cen- deep understanding of restaurants, Sheraton Grand Chennai tre. In his new role, Pandey, who events, catering set-up and banquet brings over 10 years of hospitality planning, pre-openings, optimizing nitha Simon has been appoint- experience, will be leading revenue guest satisfaction and overall Amit Sangwan operations for Novotel Hyderabad hotel operations management. A Aed as the Director of Human Director-F&B, Resources at Sheraton Grand Convention Centre and HICC. Be- hospitality professional with over Fairmont Jaipur ing a seasoned professional in ana- 11 years of rich experience, his Chennai Resort & Spa. Bringing with her 13 years of experience in lytical and functional operations, he current role is to position all the will be responsible for forecasting food and beverage outlets including the service industry, Simon takes mit Sangwan has been appointed on the leadership position to create and strategizing monthly growth the upcoming rooftop restaurant as Aas the new Director of Food & targets and driving the hotel’s fair the preferred choice for in-house a positive environment, wherein Beverage at Fairmont Jaipur. A national the team is aligned with the goals market positioning by guiding the guests’ as well as local residents. award winner, Sangwan comes with sales and marketing team. of the hotel. As the Director of Hu- more than 16 years of experience in the man Resource at Sheraton Grand luxury market. In his new role, he will Chennai Resort & Spa, Simon will oversee the food quality and costs in implement her interpersonal com- achieving customer satisfaction, menu munication skills, critical thinking, planning, outlets profitability, and busi- budget handling, counseling, and ness development, alongside ensuring management skills to further boost the best hospitality experience for the the dynamic energy at the resort. guests. Prior to joining Fairmont Jaipur, he was associated with renowned hotels like Pullman, Novotel, and The Leela. CALENDAR NOVEMBER 2019

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HOLIDAY EXPO HOLIDAY EXPO VISAKHAPATNAM, VISAKHAPATNAM, INDIA INDIA

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HOLIDAY EXPO VRMA CONNECT ITMI ANNUAL WTM LONDON ASIA TOUR TOKYO INTL. TOURISM VISAKHAPATNAM, NEW ENGLAND SYMPOSIUM LONDON, UK TOKYO, JAPAN CONFERENCE INDIA FALMOUTH, USA BRANSON, USA DUBROVNIK, CROATIA BBT / ACTE FORUM HONEYMOON WTM LONDON WTM LONDON LONDON, UK & DESTINATION LONDON, UK LONDON, UK ASIA TOUR WEDDING THE LUXURY HONG KONG SHOWCASE TRAVEL FAIR HONG KONG MINNEAPOLIS, USA LONDON, UK 03 04 05 06 07 08 09

TAIPEI INTL. TAIPEI INTL. ASIA TOUR TRAVEL MOBILITY TRAVEL MOBILITY ROMANIAN ROMANIAN TRAVEL FAIR (ITF) TRAVEL FAIR (ITF) SHANGHAI DAYS DAYS TOURISM FAIR TOURISM FAIR TAIPEI, TAIWAN TAIPEI, TAIWAN SHANGHAI, CHINA DEAUVILLE, FRANCE DEAUVILLE, FRANCE BUCHAREST, BUCHAREST, ROMANIA ROMANIA GBTA CONFERENCE GBTA CONFERENCE ROMANIAN BUENOS AIRES, BUENOS AIRES, TOURISM FAIR GOEXPO-FINLAND GOEXPO-FINLAND ARGENTINA BUCHAREST, HELSINKI, FINLAND HELSINKI, FINLAND ROMANIA 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

ROMANIAN ADVENTURE THE TOURISM BIZ TRAVEL TRAVEL MEKST TOURISM FAIR TRAVEL CONGRESS FORUM (BTF) TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE BUCHAREST, CONFERENCE OTTAWA, CANADA MILAN, ITALY SUMMIT NOVI SAD, SERBIA ROMANIA LONDON, UK NEW DELHI, INDIA BIZ TRAVEL GOEXPO-FINLAND THE TOURISM FORUM (BTF) MEKST HELSINKI, FINLAND CONGRESS MILAN, ITALY CONFERENCE OTTAWA, CANADA NOVI SAD, SERBIA 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

MEKST TRAVEL-TECH CHENGDU INTL. CHENGDU INTL. CHENGDU INTL. CONFERENCE DISRUPT TOURISM EXPO TOURISM EXPO TOURISM EXPO NOVI SAD, SERBIA RISHON LETSIYON, (CITE) (CITE) (CITE) ISRAEL CHENGDU, CHINA CHENGDU, CHINA CHENGDU, CHINA

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K Gokulam Grand beckons you to transcend in luxury and comfort

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115 Gokula Extension, BEL Circle, Bangalore 560054, India. Phone: +91 80 4300 1000 www.gokulamgrandblr.com