TravelScapes

www.travelscapesonline.com

TravelScapesDECEMBER 2019, PAGES 60, `100 VOL. 7, ISSUE. 12

SAILING FOR THE FUTURE INDIA’S TRAVEL AND TOURISM ANTICIPATING AN ENHANCED TOMORROW

TravelScapes PUBLISHER’S NOTE Lookin back, moving ahead! Dear Readers, comprehensive coverage of various stakeholders who, while prioritising activities that took place this year, the ongoing interventions also We are now at the end of 2019 and leverages the resources initiated by mention about how a stronger pull it turned out to be an eventful year government that in return benefitted towards the region eventually raises so far. As the seasons turn, so do the the sector and how the pioneers of the North East to a higher level of trends. Tourism is now less about tourism sector are planning to grow inclusive development. destination but experiences! The in the upcoming year while they look top brands and market leaders in back into the loopholes and high and This issue brings news and reports travel industry are promoting more the low points of the sector. about trade, hospitality, aviation and of experiences. As a travel enthusiast, the latest in tourism worldwide. When I would say travel brings treasures Moving forward, we turn our focus I hear directly from a reader that in life with experiences, learning and towards North East region of India they have learned something new or meeting new people. Now, you would that has always deserved the much simply enjoyed one of our articles, I think how does travel makes life needed attention. A mirage of hope feel the success of the magazine. We richer? Yes it does, because travel is has been raised when we see the value your feedback and suggestions more than just a vacation. It is truly an government prioritising the imminent so please do write to us on varun@ inspiration and education. You learn need to further develop and facelift versatilemedia.in. so much when you travel; it opens the NE region. To take a deeper your heart and mind and you become insight into how the region is chugging a better person. forward towards growth, delineating Happy reading! the challenges and opportunities, Our year end issue focuses on Varun Malhotra we speak with the key industry Publisher & CEO

PUBLISHER & CEO Varun Malhotra [email protected] ADMIN HEAD R Prem Lata DIRECTOR Pranav Khullar [email protected] ASST. MANAGER ADMIN Deepa Kaur ASSOCIATE EDITOR Gagneet Kaur ASST. EDITOR Sayanti Halder EXECUTIVE-CIRCULATION Hari Puri, Raja Rari ASST. EDITOR Aparna Sharma REPORTER Kritika Dua REPORTER & MARKETING ANALYST Lokesh Tuli Editorial & Marketing Office: Versatile Media: 207, Satya Mansion, Commercial Complex, Ranjeet Nagar, New Delhi-110008 BUSINESS HEAD Shilpi Sharma Contact: 011 - 45530380/83 • [email protected] AGM SALES & MARKETING (MUMBAI) Aarti Rajkhewa All information in TravelScapes is derived from sources we consider reliable. It is passed on to our readers without any responsibility on our part. Opinions/views expressed by third parties in abstract or BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP MANAGER Nitika Bisht interviews are not necessarily shared by us. Material appearing in the magazine cannot be reproduced CONSULTANT Anindya Malhotra, Jitin Mann in whole or in part(s) without prior permission. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or otherwise deal with all advertisements without explanation. All advertisements must comply with the Indian Advertisement Code. The publisher will not be liable for any loss caused by any delay in DESIGNER Shiv Nath publication, error or failure of advertisement to appear. Owned and published by: Varun Malhotra, Editor & Publisher, EB-63, Maya Enclave, Hari Nagar, New ACCOUNTS Chandan Jha Delhi - 110064 and printed at in-house facility. CONTENT DECEMBER 2019 VOL. 7, ISSUE. 12

SPECIAL FOCUS pg-10

SAILING FOR THE FUTURE INDIA’S TRAVEL AND TOURISM ANTICIPATING AN ENHANCED TOMORROW

Every year, the key stakeholders in the tourism industry wake up to some gripping issues and pricking topics that either warrant a look back or demand a peep ahead into what’s next. 2019 has been nothing different. As we reach the end of the year, TravelScapes thought this would be an ideal time to chronicle those concerns and spiking points and throw some methodical light, which can help the industry veterans in their decision making abilities besides creating a strong plan for 2020. While looking back into the loopholes and the series of considerations on the year behind us and what the travel, tourism and hospitality industry might expect looking ahead, we ask the industry frontrunners about their outlook on how various sectors have evolved in 2019 and what’s next in store for the year ahead!

UPDATE INBOUND SPECIAL FEATURE

18 “KERALA TOURISM INTENDS TO 28 WILL THE STRONG WIND OF CHANGE SHED OFF THE COCOON AROUND NOTCH 15 PER CENT GROWTH THIS NORTH EAST? YEAR AND IN 2020” There is no denial of the fact that India tourism's growth story needs to be inclusive to be relevant and economically sustainable. However, for the past few years the country’s North East Region (NER) even after having its distinct advantages, has been experiencing a comparatively slower pace of socio-economic growth, in spite of government having identified the key development areas. A mirage of hope rises while we see the government prioritising the imminent need to further develop and facelift the NE Region and work towards increasing its inter-regional contact with the next-door nations and enhance connectivity to the various corners of India and overseas. Standing at the verge of becoming a million-dollar business opportunity which still looks like a farfetched vision, North East Region deserves much more attention further boosting hopes for a brighter future

REGULAR UPDATES

8...... MoT 16...... Trade 24...... Hospitality 44...... Outbound 54...... Aviation 58...... On the Move

6 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 IN CONVERSATION HOTEL FEATURE

31 UDUPI CARVES A GROWTH 46 AL AZIZIYAH BOUTIQUE HOTEL MAP TO BOOST THE KEY A FRESH COMPOSITION OF THE ANTIQUATED AND INNOVATIVE THRIVING SEGMENTS Located in Doha’s impressive Aspire Zone, the Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel is one of the very few of the city’s urban country estates. Lush greenery and polished G. Jagadeesha, I.A.S., Deputy gardens set the scene for the most relaxing stay in one the posh feathers in the Commissioner & District Magistrate, hat of Torch Hospitality. With the charm of an English country house and its Udupi District in a tête-à-tête with unique Victorian style, the hotel welcomes its guests to explore its premises with TravelScapes reveals how Udupi a tinge of class and heritage mixed with seamless hospitality is eventually making strides on the developmental front while also affirming the tourism board’s immediate plan of action for outlining an ideal roadmap for future growth

#WHAT'S TRENDING

32 #WHAT'S TRENDING With a wide range of terrains to explore and tales to discover at mountains, beaches, palaces, religious sites, forts, ruins of ancient kingdoms and wonders of nature, the sheer diversity this world has to offer is astonishing. From adrenaline-filled adventures to enthralling stroll along the experiential trails; these destinations's distinct facets are sure to allure the visitors. Coming up with yet another distinctive product, we hereby present a selection of destinations that are buzzing across the social media and are nothing less than a blissful paradise that the vacationers can look forward to in 2020

SPECIAL FEATURE 52 HERE’S WHY YOU SHOULD HEAD TO ISTANBUL FOR MEETINGS & MORE...

Positioned on the edge of Europe, Turkey’s cultural capital Istanbul is a buzzing transcontinental beauty with humongous spots for your business meetings and conferences and an even better place to wind down the routined hassles and let one soak in the bustling vibes of the city. We spent the six days of this thrilling expedition in Turkey, which weren’t enough to fill our appetite to explore more of both the cultural and business facets that Istanbul has to offer. The more we unfolded the layers of its history, culture and locals, the more we fell in love with Istanbul since everything in the city has a stimulating story to tell

SPOTLIGHT

40 DUBAI TOURISM AIMS TO ENHANCE ITS REPEATED ARRIVALS Confident of closing next year’s target numbers with the boost provided by Expo 2020

DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 7 UPDATE MoT TravelScapes Evolve Back Luxury Resorts entitled as a India to provide Visa- ‘Monument Mithra’ by the MoT on-Arrival to Emiratis

volve Back has been chosen at various sites across the Tourism had included the miratis travelling to India can now get a Visa- Eas a ‘Monument Mithra’ by country. These adapters are heritage township of Hampi Eon-Arrival (VoA), the announcement of which the Ministry of Tourism (MoT), given the title of ‘Monument in Karnataka in its ‘Adopt a was confirmed by the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. Govt. of India, under their Mithras’ (Friends of Monuments) Heritage’ campaign, it invited Now, Emiratis can travel to India free of prior visas, ‘Adopt a Heritage’ campaign. and are to collaborate with Evolve Back Resorts to become they can get visa on arrival, the Indian Embassy said ‘Adopt a Heritage’ is a novel the Archaeological Survey of a 'Monument Mithra'. A vision recently. The VoA facility for UAE citizens already campaign rolled out by the India in carrying out repairs, proposal was called for in early started from November 16. “Government of India, Ministry of Tourism in 2017. up-gradation, beautification 2018 and three monuments with effect from November 16, 2019, has decided Its purpose is to involve the and protection of designated falling under different tourist to extend the Visa-on-Arrival facility to nationals private sector in adopting one historical monuments and their exposure categories, green of the United Arab Emirates,” a statement from the or more of the many reputed surroundings. and orange, were indicated embassy said, which was retweeted by the Indian historical monuments located When the Ministry of as available for adoption. ambassador to the UAE, Pavan Kapoor. “Evolve Back has always been committed to the principals of Responsible Tourism and becoming a Monument Mithra is another sign of our endeavour to contribute positively towards society. We believe in the preservation and development of our surrounding culture and strive daily to make a difference, small or big,” added Jose Ramapuram, Director - Marketing, Evolve Back Luxury Resorts.

MoT participates in WTM London 2019 UNWTO appoints Suman Billa

he Ministry of Tourism, India recently various tourism products, this year, the 150th Tparticipated in the three-day-long World birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and uman Billa, the former Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Travel Market (WTM) from November 4 the Statue of Unity was also promoted and SGovt. of India and President of India Convention Promotion to 6, 2019 in London, UK. The theme for publicised in the India Pavilion. Yogendra Bureau (ICPB), joined the United Nations World Tourism Organisation India Pavilion was ‘Incredible India – Find Tripathi, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Govt. (UNWTO) as the Director of technical cooperation and Silk Road Incredible India’. A total of 32 stakeholders, of India lead the official delegation which development at D1 level, at its headquarters in Madrid, Spain. He including state governments, union also included Additional Director General assumed charge of this specialised agency in the beginning of December territory administrations, Air India, IRCTC, (Tourism), Rupinder Brar. India Pavilion for the promotion of responsible and sustainable tourism. A Joint hotels, wellness resorts and tour operators at WTM was inaugurated on November Secretary in the Union Ministry of Tourism, Billa’s appointment has participated as co-exhibitors in the India 4, 2019 by the Secretary (Tourism) and been approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. Pavilion. High Commissioner of India to the UK Several activities including cultural Ruchi Ghanashyam. A panel discussion was programmes, a Yoga demonstration, Henna organised on the theme ‘Incredible India – application, Indian food tasting, turban tying, Find the Incredible You’ for showcasing India saree draping and more were organised in as an experiential destination and to make MoT participates in the three-day the Pavilion. Besides, showcasing India’s tourists realise the wider potential of India. China International Travel Mart ntending to increasing tourism and trade between India and China, Ithe Ministry of Tourism, Government of India in collaboration with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) recently participated at China International Travel Mart (CITM) organised between November 15 to 17, 2019 at Kunming, China. The India Pavilion at CITM was inaugurated on November 15, 2019, by Rupinder Brar, Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India and Dipak Haksar, Chief Executive, ITC Hotels & Chairman CII National Committee on Tourism and Hospitality along with other members. Tourism is emerging as a vital link between India and China, fuelled by an increasing level of bilateral trade, business and governmental cooperation between the two sides. The future of tourist travels between the two countries which represent 40 per cent of the world’s population continues to be promising based on the current trajectory of growth.

8 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

SPECIAL FOCUS TravelScapes

SAILING FOR THE FUTURE INDIA’S TRAVEL AND TOURISM ANTICIPATING AN ENHANCED TOMORROW

Every year, the key stakeholders in the tourism industry wake up to some gripping issues and pricking topics that either warrant a look back or demand a peep ahead into what’s next. 2019 has been nothing different. As we reach the end of the year, TravelScapes thought this would be an ideal time to chronicle those concerns and spiking points and throw some methodical light, which can help the industry veterans in their decision making abilities besides creating a strong plan for 2020. While looking back into the loopholes and the series of considerations on the year behind us and what the travel, tourism and hospitality industry might expect looking ahead, we ask the industry frontrunners about their outlook on how various sectors have evolved in 2019 and what’s next in store for the year ahead!

By Gagneet Kaur & Sayanti Halder

ver since the tax slash has been a hotel in Mumbai, almost 50 per in the last two months, we have Eapproved by the government, cent of the total cost goes to land. opened six hotels. We will be giving guests are elated and we have Plots should be subsidised just like true value-for-the-money spent witnessed an overall increase Aerocity has been established by by the guests. Moreover, we are of eight per cent in comparison JMR in Delhi. Some areas can be promoting health consciousness to last year’s occupancy. If we allotted where only hotels should to the guests by putting out ‘Quick take a closer look, the Indian be developed and land price should Fit’ brochure. We are promoting ‘hospitality industry’ is not be subsidised, which is reasonable healthy breakfast options, home- actually, an industry such as so we can have growth. Similarly, style food and tailor-made food. auto, shipping or manufacturing electricity price has been so high Our targets, in terms of expansion industries even though we are the that the state, nowadays, should and development, for the next year maximum requirement creators. be vigilant as hospitality is a high- would be having a wider network of In the hotel segment, very less intensive segment, which consumes our properties. Today, we have 49 P R Bansal, Chief Operating automisation is witnessed and more electricity. Our connection hotels out of which we are operating Officer, Lords Hotels & more is the manpower but still, has to be 100 per cent and 100 per 28 hotels and are increasing Resorts it is not considered an industry. cent power backup has to provide. another six hotels. So every two There is a lot of potential in India Around nine to 10 per cent of the months, we are increasing our hotel for hospitality but the prices of revenue goes into facilities like these. and by December 2020, we aim to available plots are sky-high. For Lords Hotels and Resorts is one have 45 hotels and working hard to example, if one considers opening of the fastest-growing chains and make it reach 49.

10 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 TravelScapes SPECIAL FOCUS

he recent tax cut on room grow, single-window clearance for specially customised for increasing Ttariffs is a welcome change for licenses and permissions, along with hotel revenue. We assist hotels the industry and a step in the right awarding hotels as an asset class with a full deck of analytical and direction. However, the effects of with infrastructure status would be intuitive inputs on managing this tax cut will be felt in due time noteworthy changes which will have rates, content and digital sales as this will start impacting the travel a positive impact on the industry as platforms. Additionally, we optimise plans for the coming years. Also, a whole. productivity from all other segments the growth in arrival and hotel stays Our service lines also include of business like corporates, leisure this year has been sluggish owing asset management and revenue and MICE. Hotelivate Asset to factors such as the closure of Jet management, which are critical Management aims at unlocking the Airways, the collapse of Thomas solutions to enhance the profitability true potential of a hotel asset by Cook, the central elections in the and total revenue of hotels, assisting the unit operations team first quarter of the present fiscal respectively. With India’s branded to challenge the status quo. In the Manav Thadani, Founder and so forth. With the share of hotel market nearing 1,50,000 short run, improved revenues or Chairman, Hotelivate domestic demand continuously operational rooms, it becomes reduced costs can vastly improve growing for business as well imperative for owners to optimise business cash flows, while in as leisure stays, we can expect their returns and concentrate on the long term; the focus is on domestic travel to depict buoyancy project ROIs. Hotelivate brings in improvement in EBITDA, which in and form the backbone of the strategic and operational levels turn typically leads to a significant tourism economy. Going forward, of Revenue Management support increase in the valuation of the for the Indian hospitality industry to through a series of activities asset.

oung India (lesser than 35 outbound. There is an ease of visas the last 15 years as a very serious Yyears of age) is increasingly in most of countries, today, and revenue driver for TBO along with travelling to outbound destinations Indian passports are very well- the simultaneous growth of the as they are making a decent income, acknowledged and it is possible to Island Hopper. We are expecting it as a couple and individuals, and get a visa within a day or two for to grow in leaps and bounds as we are keen to explore the world some countries. New inventory flight would now be putting in our own and various avenues rather than coming in is also helping the demand technology platform replacing the saving money which our previous as well as supply which is making previous technology that was used generations used to. So, the people fly more and explore new when we acquired the company. disposable income of the couples destinations. Emerging destinations Also for 2020, we would be looking is kind of a contributory factor of such as Almaty, Azerbaijan and into developing our own self-booking the growth in outbound tourism going forward, people’s interest in tool for domestic travel agents called from India. Besides that, a lot of these destinations will further grow. ‘Taxes’. This would benefit the travel Ankush Nijhawan, corporate movement today goes Millennial are very exploratory agents struggling against the big Co-Founder, Travel Boutique to overseas, which is happening and they are likely to visit the DMC due to the lack technology. It Online (TBO) Group amongst financial, IT, start-ups and destinations, which are cost-effective will be launched around January more divisions and several large and budgeted. 8. We are aiming for a 40 to 50 companies, which are building TBO would be giving more per cent growth for us; something software for these large global firms. priority to TBO Academy, which has that we are happy about already. The sporting events are also helping. been very beneficial for us. We, as a Fortunately, 2019 has been a great For example, the ICC Cricket World group, would look at new segments, year and I am sure 2020 will Cup in 2019 witnessed a growth in which we haven’t looked at in continue to be the same.

ndia has seen a massive surge in tourism by influencing destination the wind, the optimist expects Ioutbound tourism recording an appeal through films. The UDAN it to change and the leader annual growth of 10 to 12 per cent Scheme, as well as the emergence adjusts the sail’. We understand over a short span of seven years. of new airports, indicates the that to remain a frontrunner we As a result of double-income commitment of the government must constantly innovate whilst households and growing surplus to support outbound tourism. remaining cost-efficient and earnings, people are investing Likewise, the future of inbound nimble. While we continue to increasingly in indulgences tourism also looks promising with scale we are extremely particular and experiences. International subsidised GST taxation. It is of the partners we choose to carriers and frequency of flights indeed a great time to be alive in work with, we are very selective have grown in numbers along the travel and tourism sector. with recruiting and our domain with the affordability of travel The outbound industry is specialists are hired-based on packages. Playing a pivotal role on a growth trajectory and stringent criteria. We also do Amit Kishore, Co-founder & has been the internet by offering as an organisation, we have regular internal audits to pre- Director, Eastbound Group ease of booking and presenting a been fortunate to keep pace by empt any pitfalls. There is a place myriad of options to choose from registering 20 per cent annual between embracing change and and compare with. Bollywood has growth. In John Maxwell’s words, challenging the status quo. Here is also been a major vehicle to boost ‘the pessimist complains about where we’ll continue to reside.

DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 11 SPECIAL FOCUS TravelScapes

ny reduction in taxes is always can make or break the deal. The relevant. For Hyatt Regency Delhi, Awelcome and increases hospitality industry is ever-changing Food & Beverage has always been consumer buying power that has and ever-growing. With emerging the distinguishing factor and we aim a positive effect on our business. technologies and rising guest to capitalise on that in 2020. Our We must stay competitive in the expectations, it is necessary to keep team of Chefs from both home and international marketplace, we are up with the latest trends to stand abroad, select the best ingredients, often up against other major cities out. We live in a digital world and as from local organic farms and around the globe when pitching for our guests become more tech-savvy, around the world, creating the event and the level of taxation we must adapt and adjust to stay unforgettable guest experiences.

Julian Ayers, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Delhi & Area Vice President of Hyatt, North India, Hyatt Regency

nbound travel has had a lot of has been a great increase in traffic we have a joint bank guarantee Inegative effect on its growth to Dubai, Thailand. Vietnam, Bali scheme where our members can due to adverse news on Kashmir, and Turkey. On the long haul participate in a lower margin to crimes on foreigners especially with the cessation of flights on Jet their business with IATA BSP. attack woman, floods, etc. On the Airways, there was an approximate We also have three seats in the positive side eVisas’ openings to increase of fares by 30 per cent agency programme joint council 100 + countries has been positive. and therefore, the traffic to where we deliberate with IATA On the outbound side, many Europe, the USA and Australia was and airline representatives of the unexplored countries especially moderate. policy matters and challenges in Central Asia and nearby, Our members are mainly of our members. Furthermore, have opened their tourist offices outbound travel agents and tour we have started a business to or represented by Destination operators. We have taken many business portal TAFI connect Management Companies have initiatives to help our members; where our members can buy or been able to lure Indian tourists. we have our annual convention sell their products on the platform. Pradip Lulla, Acting President Further, the introduction of new in a location and country where We are also in talks with some low- and Vice President, Travel flights and the opening of new our members who register and cost airlines and hotel chains to Agents Federation of India flights by low-cost carriers have participate get the knowledge and have joint bank guarantee schemes substantially lowered fares. There experience of the destination. Then for our members.

he recent tax cuts have been Since our inception in 2010, we from the city centres, disconnected Tbeneficial in bringing the have endeavoured to deliver an from all the noise and pollution and overall cost of stays down and at the experience which is different from in calm and serene surroundings. Tree of Life, we have passed on the traditional hotels. For example, we People are now bored of going up entire benefit to the end consumers will always have relatively small a lift and walking through a long and intermediaries. It is too early inventory hotels ensuring that there corridor to get to their hotel room to say whether this has played a is a personal connection between - they are looking for different role in the significant increase of staff members who are your hosts experiences which are closer to arrivals but it is a very welcome and the guests. We would always be nature and that is what we aim to change for all of us in the industry. a short and convenient drive away deliver.

Akhil Anand, Director, Tree of Life Resort & Spa Jaipur

hile I do not fully agree with tourism offices across the world are Karnika is receiving from the trade as Wthe fact that inbound numbers making great efforts to reach not only well as the guest. It is a proud moment are showing a decline, I feel we are the top agents in tier I cities but also for us to bring to India it's very own sustaining our numbers percieved penetrating down to II and III-tiered cruise ship company and we are also earlier but the growth that was cities. This is allowing greater exposure excited to report that in less than perceived did not happen due to to destinations and products. Online seven months of operation, we have that fact that our infrastructure is information and quality of content are over 68,000 happy customers. We taking time for the same to grow so easily available that the end client is have had an amazing run at our home substantially. On the other hand, now demanding destinations from the port Mumbai and are second port I agree that outbound figures are agent. Likewise, increased availability Dubai. Indian and GCC customers robust as new destinations are being of air connectivity is another factor to now understand a year-round cruise introduced and the Indian outbound add to this number while visa remains product and our experience quality customer is prepared to experiment. a bit challenging an affair but the cruise holidays. This is historic as I feel that several reasons are huge ease of application and processing no cruise ship has done these ports contributors to this growth including by companies such as VFS have also before. The plan is to have four to five Rajiv Duggal, Strategic the basic need to discover destinations, been game-changers. The travel trade ships to cater to India’s large travelling Adviser, Jalesh Cruises ease of travel, availability of Indian food is waking up to smell the coffee called population and to change the way has also pushed Indian’s to travel more Cruise holiday as this is the future of they enjoy their holidays. We are more exciting itineraries. We continue than before. A large middle class, with travel. committed to take our guest to even to create history and we are sure decent disposal income, has always At Jalesh Cruises, the action stations more ports in India in 2020 and also India is proud of its very own cruise been our strength for any consumable work 24x7. We are very excited by announce our second ship for the company. product, in this case, travel. Also, the response that our maiden ship Indian market and introduce even

12 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 SPECIAL FOCUS

important source market for Malaysia. with one million arrivals from India. The markets for us while also The Indian visitors rank sixth, in terms federal government, state government, progressively reaching out of the arrivals in Malaysia. We are the public and private sector, as well as to promising tier II and tier currently witnessing a phenomenal 25 the general population in Malaysia, are III cities. To complement per cent y-o-y growth and are leaving thrilled and excited to welcome Indian this work on the ground no stone unturned. India was the only tourists during this campaign. There we have also tied up with place other than Malaysia, where the have been extensive collaborations with popular OTAs. Lastly, we Visit Malaysia 2020 campaign was travel agents and tour operators. We are extending the eNTRI launched simultaneously with Kuala have planned a slew of roadshows to visa until the end of 2020 Lumpur. The campaign targeted at consolidate our hold on the tier I cities, and also waving the visa achieving 30 million arrivals overall which traditionally have been strong fees.

Sulaiman Suip, Director- North & East India, Tourism Malaysia

he growth of outbound tourism Tin India can be summarised into two categories namely push and pull. The Indian economy has been consistently growing at seven per cent for the past decade. This economic growth further aided by steps such as demonetisation has meant a stronger INR, which has propelled the growth of an already big middle-class segment not only in major cities but also the tier II and tier III cities. The middle class in India has now got high incomes at their disposal and with a greater purchasing power, they can afford to travel abroad at least once, annually. The numerous infrastructure initiatives taken by the government has further fuelled this growth. The higher demand and the infrastructure development have led to not only upgrading of existing airports but the building of new airports and roads which has further increased accessibility to tier II and tier III cities. The air carriers are increasing their frequency to the existing routes and adding new routes. They are expected to add as many as 1100 new aircraft in the next 15 years. Also, the development in the fields of Information Technology (IT) with an increased smartphone and internet penetration has contributed to this growth. The ease of accessibility to travel documents such as passport has created a pool of 75 million people ready to travel. The pull factors are interdependent on the push factors. Recognising the immense potential in outbound travel from India, more than 70 National Tourist Organisations (NTOs) from around the world have set up local offices in India. The Indians are now spoilt with choice as more destinations have brought more choices and each destination is dolling out attractive and exciting offers. India has always been a very

DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 13 14 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

UPDATE TRADE TravelScapes VFS Global becomes an official ticket Scandinavia expects reseller for Expo 2020 Dubai growth in Indian arrivals FS Global has been itineraries that include We are proud to be an By Sayanti Halder Vnamed an official single- and three-day official ticket reseller for ticket reseller for Expo passes to visit Expo 2020 Expo 2020 Dubai and n a recent gathering of the for Scandinavian Tourism 2020 Dubai to be held in Dubai. Customers who look forward to extending IScandanavian Tourism Board Board in India, highlighted the the UAE between October opt to submit their visa our new, special range of in New Delhi, the tourism importance of continuous and 20, 2020, and April 10, application through the packages to customers.” representatives of the region sustainable tourism growth 2021. Customers travelling Premium Lounge or hold Khosla added, “Having highlighted the importance of from India to Norway, Denmark to the UAE during Expo a VFS Global Privilege VFS Global on board puts the fast-emerging India market, and Sweden. “Our endeavour 2020 can simply visit Program membership can us in a great position gradually topping the list of is to showcase authentic their nearest VFS Global also enjoy discounts on the to meet our ambitious the region’s source markets. Scandinavian experiences to Visa Application Centre packages they purchase. targets and draw 25 The toursm board hosted its discerning and open Indian in the GCC, India, China, Karkaria said, “We have million visits through ‘Scandinavia Seminar’ to gather traveller. From chasing Northern Russia, UK and Germany enjoyed a long-standing the gates of the World’s the travel trade fraternity for Lights on a husky safari above to plan their trip, leverage relationship with the UAE, Greatest Show. Expo a better understanding of the the Artic to going foraging in VFS Global’s services and one that has grown from 2020 will be a never- destination and its features. the wilderness, or taking a reserve their Expo 2020 strength to strength over before-seen extravaganza The board brought around swim in canals or a being in tickets. the years. We have been with something to excite, 37 delegates representing the a natural spa. Scandinavian Sanjive Khosla, Chief offering visa and citizen entertain and inspire destination’s major tourism region; Denmark, Sweden and Commercial Officer, Expo services for the UAE everyone. It’s going to be boards including Denmark, Norway are ideal to holiday 2020 Dubai and Zubin government in several the greatest celebration Sweden and Norway along with family & friends or just a Karkaria, CEO, VFS Global countries across the globe, of human brilliance and with museums, hotels and ferry solo vacation. The best part is Group, signed the contract and are pleased to use achievement, and VFS companies apart from its new that you may choose to travel on October 20, 2019, in our extensive operational Global will help make sure cities of Copenhagen, Flam, in spring, summer, autumn Dubai. VFS Global will network to provide yet everyone in the world Stockholm and Gothenburg. or winter. Scandinavia is an be offering a range of another service for them in has the opportunity to At the conference, the all-year-round destination for packages with suggested various regions worldwide. experience it.” representatives shared that the Indians” He further added, the Indian arrivals have grown “We intend to reach out to over significantly and so have the 200 travel partners across the overnights. The Indian traveller, three major Indian cities. The today, is not just aware of the business event aims to enhance Jyoti Mayal elected as TAAI capitals but going much beyond. destination knowledge of Indian The consumption pattern of travel professionals, introduce President for the 2019-21 term Indian travellers has also changed new regional travel products significantly. The millennial and besides providing an opportunity t the recent election of Travel While Jyoti Mayal registered a Generation Z often seek the same to learn and experience each AAgents Association of India thumping victory against Sanjay experience as rest of the world. other’s culture and business (TAAI) in Mumbai, the former Hony. Narula in the straight contest, the The Scandinavian Seminar needs” Secretary-General of the association entire Managing Committee headed continues to engage and inspire With four distinct seasons, Jyoti Mayal won the position of the new by Mayal had a landslide victory in the travel trade over a decade. Scandinavia has plenty to offer President followed by Jay Bhatia as the the elections. Jay Bhatia of the same From five Scandinavian partners all year long. Summer is glorious, Vice President for the term 2019-21. team was elected unopposed. The in 2009, today the tourism with a burst of golden sunlight The new team comprises Bettaiah entire Managing Committee, no would board has over 35 Scandinavian that envelops the land in a warm Lokesh as Hony. Secretary-General and consist Anoop Kanuga (Mumbai), Rajan partners including tourism glow. For the Indian traveller, it Shreeral Patel as the Hon. Treasurer, Sehgal (Delhi), P Murugesan (Chennai), boards, museums, hotels, ferry is convenient to visit the three respectively. ‘Team Progressive’ headed Devesh Agarwal (Kolkata), Paras Lakhia companies and airlines. countries—Sweden, Norway, and by Jyoti Mayal swept the elections, (Ahmedabad), Sunil Notani (Bhopal) Mohit Batra, responsible Denmark together. organised in Mumbai on November 28. and R Venkatachalam (Trichy).

16 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 TravelScapes UPDATE TRADE IHG appoints Sudeep Jain as IATO discusses RCM’s effect on GST MD - Southwest Asia By Team TS Indian Associaton of Tour Operators (IATO) IATO should take the lead and organise the InterContinental Hotels Group organised an interactive luncheon meeting event in India.” G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, the (IHG) recently announced the at The Suryaa New Delhi on November 13. new CMD of ITDC was also present. appointment of Sudeep Jain as Rajiv Mehra, Vice President, IATO along Mehra said, “Some important topics were Managing Director, Southwest with other Office Bearers deliberated upon discussed today including passing the benefit Asia (SWA) with effect from passing the benefit of GST to the end-user, of the GST to the end-user and clarification January 1, 2020. Jain who Reverse Charge Mechanism's (RCM) in terms of the RCM aspect of GST provided is currently serving as VP effect on GST and other clarifications that by the association’s GST Consultant S.C. Development, SWA succeeds association members require. The meeting Kamra. The meeting went well and the Vivek Bhalla, who has been was attended by the association’s Senior members are satisfied with it. I am seeing promoted to the role of Vice Vice President E.M. Najeeb, Hony. Secretary an increase in business in November. I have President Operations for South Rajesh Mudgill, Hony. Treasurer Ravi Gosain heard and observed that November 2019 East Asia and Korea (SEAK) and Hony. Joint Secretary Rajnish Kaistha, should be better than the same period last based out of IHG’s office in among others. Gosain informed that he year and if this trend goes then we will Singapore. Gauvin, Managing Director- represented a meeting that was held under have increased business. It appears that the In his new role, Sudeep will take India, the Middle East and the Chairpersonship of Director General benefits being passed by the government on a broader leadership agenda Africa, IHG. In his previous role (Tourism), GoI to discuss regarding holding are attracting tourists. With USD 25 visa to drive IHG’s business in the as Vice President-Development an annual congress of Association of Finnish fee more tourists are getting attracted region, covering both development SWA, Jain was responsible Travel Agents in India in April 2021 and they towards exploring India. It’s an excellent step and operations responsibilities for supporting IHG’s growth invited the association for it. He said, “Around taken by the government and our Tourism across the existing portfolio of 39 ambition and strengthening the 25000 Finnish travellers visit India as per the Minister Prahlad Singh Patel and it will in hotels representing five brands, company’s presence in Southwest data, there is also a direct Finnair flight and turn boost tourism. Hopefully, 2019 should namely InterContinental, Crowne Asia. During his tenure, IHG thus it is a crucial market for us. It was also end on a good note. Negative publicity has Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn significantly expanded the suggested that we need to know the profile of considerably stopped and IATO is also taking Express and Six Senses Hotels footprint of its midscale brands the travel agents who would visit India and some serious steps to ensure it doesn’t Resorts Spas. He will continue and reintroducing the luxury and also their expectations from us. Based on that, happen. In 2020 our business is set to to be based in Gurugram, upscale portfolio to key markets MoT GoI will prepare a questionnaire and increase and also there has to be a decrease India and will report to Pascal in SWA. send it to them. DG Tourism suggested that in taxes and monument fees.”

DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 17 UPDATE INBOUND TravelScapes “Kerala Tourism intends to notch 15 per cent growth this year and in 2020” By Gagneet Kaur

ffering oodles of famous because people are travelling with where ducks are passing by. There Oattractions, Kerala is home greater frequency and looking are numerous other models of niche to some of the country’s most beyond standard products of a tourism like playing golf, which is rewarding and exquisite experiences. destination. The shift now is on prohibitively costly abroad. But a The early lead in formulating experiential tourism. The middle tourist now can buy a ticket to Kochi, comprehensive tourism policy and class in India has more income play golf at Cochin Airport Golf Club setting long term vision for tourism and they travel every year. It has, and go back next weekend. Also, P. Bala Kiran growth, Kerala has been taking therefore, become imperative to Kerala Tourism’s latest marketing major strides forward in terms of provide novelty to them in terms of campaign, ‘Human by Nature’, is an Riding on a swift recovery, Kerala showcasing the products that are touristy products,” shares P. Bala apt illustration of the state moving has already regained its distinct both niche and traditional. Kiran IAS, Director, Department of towards niche tourism. The video reputation and bolstered its presence And as more travellers Tourism, Government of Kerala. film unravels before the tourists not in the market while the tourism have started to look to offbeat “Kerala is trying to address this only the cultural facets but also the board has simultaneously outlined destinations, Kerala Tourism issue with the concept of Responsible people of the state. Kerala’s heritage, the growth map for the upcoming capitalised on the opportunity while Tourism (RT) and an integral part Kathakali, for instance, cannot be year. “Kerala Tourism intends to offering something unique and of it is Village Life Experience (VLE) found anywhere else.” notch 15 per cent growth this year ecologically effective. “Tourism is packages. There are now 65 VLE While the God’s own country this and in 2020. Currently, it has been becoming highly competitive and packages running across the length year was hit by the devastating floods stuck at five percentage growth and it has to be constantly reoriented and breadth of the state. These which had impacted the number it can be attributed to the liquor and reinvented to ignite and sustain packages are simple but interesting of tourism footfalls for a while, the policy and devastating floods for the curiosity and interest of visitors. such as trying hands at pottery, successful differentiation of the the last two consecutive years. Activities have to be picked up that climbing a coconut tree, making a destination done by the effective But we are bullish this year with a make a destination distinct from coir rope, sowing saplings in a paddy positioning and marketing strategies new growth strategy for tourism other places. Niche tourism is now field or sailing in the traditional small continued to benchmark the state’s and should be able to touch this becoming increasingly popular boat for a ride in the backwaters performance on the tourism front. percentage,” Kiran asserts.

ADTOI organises North East Tourism roadshow and B2B meeting in Delhi

orth East Festival, with the theme entertaining. The travel trade association N'Connecting People Celebrating also organised B2B sessions with the Life', is an attempt to showcase and presence of partners from North East create awareness about India’s North and agents from Delhi NCR and beyond. East region, its people and resources. Also ADTOI President PP Khanna exclaimed, part of the initiative was the North East “North East India is now emerging as an is a grand event that is being organised for 2019, ADTOI with the support of its Tourism roadshow and B2B meeting, attractive tourism destination and with the last few years which brings together members/stakeholders in North East organised by Association of Domestic excellent connectivity to Guwahati by air the spectacular culture of North East, organised ADTOI North East Tourism Tour Operators of India (ADTOI) with and its network with other South East dance forms, drama, around 40 food roadshow and B2B meeting. Tourism Ministry of Tourism’s support; it was held Asian countries, the main bottleneck has stalls displaying best of NER cuisines, a Secretaries of Govt. of Assam, Govt on November 9 at IGNCA Conference been addressed to a great extent. Law large traditional craft exhibition, fashion of Meghalaya and Govt. of Arunachal Hall, Janpath, New Delhi. ADTOI, in and order is fine, stable functionality of shows, art, tourism destinations and Pradesh were among the dignitaries association with North East Tourism governments with increased focus from musical gigs. It is considered one of present at the event. There were 22 partners, organised this unique event on PM of India, North East India is poised to Delhi's biggest festivals. Plenty of tourists exhibitors from North East and 120 a large-scale to interact with partners take giant strides towards development. including foreign tourists come to this buyers (majorly ADTOI members from from North East and experience their ADTOI has recently launched its state festival to see the wide variety of colours Delhi/NCR) who had B2B meeting with culture. The environment created chapter in Guwahati and response has and canvass. Coinciding with this festival the sellers for the promotion of North at the festival was both vibrant and been remarkable. The North East Festival that was held from November 8 to 10, East destinations.”

18 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

UPDATE TRADE TravelScapes Vistara and SBI Card to launch premium co-branded credit cards

BI Card and Vistara, India’s benefits. Sfinest full-service carrier, have Speaking at the launch, Hardayal joined hands to launch a one-of-its- Prasad, MD & CEO, SBI Card, said, kind premium credit card for travel “SBI Card has always strived to bring savvy urban Indians. Launched in products for its customers that are two variants, Club Vistara SBI Card customised as per their diverse lifestyle PRIME and Club Vistara SBI Card, and preferences, offering maximum the new card has been designed to value and enhanced experience. Travel offer a rewarding travel experience to is one of the key spend categories cardholders, through unique benefits for our cardholders. Through our and unmatched value proposition, partnership with Vistara, India’s best on domestic and international travel airline, we aim to address unique spends. requirements of our customers, The newly launched Club Vistara especially urban millennials, whose SBI Card PRIME will further address spend on travel has increased over the evolving needs of the Indian a period of time and are looking for travellers who aspire to travel in related privileged benefits. This launch style and luxury. The card offers has increased our travel credit card benefits such as, one-way Premium portfolio that we have built over the of everyday lives of our customers. As and privileges, such as complimentary Economy tickets on joining and years, targeted at fulfilling varied needs travel spends continue to significantly Club Vistara Silver/Base Tier achieving spends-based milestone(s), of our customers.” rise among today’s urban consumers, Membership, welcome tickets on complimentary Club Vistara Silver tier Leslie Thng, Chief Executive Officer, we wish to provide more options to Vistara’s domestic network, One-Class membership, up to six free cancellation Vistara said, “Our endeavour is to the ever-increasing number of our Upgrade voucher, free cancellation of flight tickets booked on Vistara enhance the value proposition of Club loyal customers to join Club Vistara on Vistara bookings, travel insurance channels viz. website, app and helpline, Vistara and elevate its position from and enjoy the privileges of their Club protection, lounge access vouchers, and also complimentary lounge a frequent flyer program to a more Vistara membership.” complimentary membership to Priority access- up to four international and attractive, comprehensive lifestyle The two variants of the Club Vistara Pass Program and attractive rewards eight domestic, among host of other program that makes an essential part SBI Card come with several benefits on reaching milestone spends.

Yas Island’s expands portfolio of attractions for a wider reach

as Island’s expanding portfolio of accessible? Rev Up at W Abu Dhabi – Yas the form of a bold Welcome area with and seating which reflects the local Yattractions is expected to continue Island, a rebranded upscale property Bedouin inspired tents, large columns mangroves, bespoke designed welcome driving the growth trend in visitation which was formerly known desks in the shape of oil from key global markets. In 2018, the as the Yas Hotel. Ignite drops and more. destination enjoyed the successful your senses at the only The vibrant 499 guest opening of Warner Bros. World Abu hotel in the world located rooms and suites floor-to- Dhabi and later this month, Yas Island will on a Formula 1 circuit as ceiling windows offering debut CLYMB Abu Dhabi. The highly- you live it up and soak spectacular views of the anticipated sporting attraction caters to in the Arabian sun. Fuel racetrack or marina. W the adventurous at heart and will feature up on fun at world class Abu Dhabi – Yas Island the world’s tallest indoor climbing wall theme parks or kick back is the ultimate dining & and largest indoor skydiving chamber, with cocktails and savour nightlife destination with complementing Yas Island’s other the moment at the Capitals seven unique restaurants unrivalled attractions and experiences, hottest spot. Inspirational and bars ready for guests which include one-of-a-kind theme parks, architecture unravels in to steal the scene on world-class shopping and dining, a links Yas Island. The Hotel golf course, and thrilling water and motor features a spa, FIT sports. health club and a state Additionally, in 2020, Yas Island of the art kid’s zone for will unveil Yas Bay, Abu Dhabi’s newest the young at heart. W Abu Dhabi – Yas lifestyle and entertainment offering, which Island offers a total of 3520sqm of event will feature a stunning 18,000 capacity space, including the Great Room, six indoor multi-purpose arena as well as meeting rooms, four strategy rooms and The Waterfront, which will incorporate outdoor terraces for meetings and social two world-class hotels, a beach club, 37 gatherings. cafes and restaurants as well as 19 retail Also, since India is one of the potential outlets. inbound tourism markets for Yas Island, Looking for an ideal chic W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island would be accommodation where both the comfort participating in SATTE 2020 (Stand and entertainment options are easily Number: C15- Abu Dhabi Stall).

20 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

WYNDHAM DUBAI MARINA COMFORT PERFECTED Experience accessible luxury at Wyndham Dubai Marina with stays in their 495 well-appointed rooms and suites. From the moment you step into the spectacular marble lobby, you’ll know you’ve chosen somewhere special. Situated in the heart of Dubai Marina, one of the city’s most vibrant locations, the hotel offers guests the perfect opportunity to explore land and water.

WHIMSY LOCALE: meats, while the Italian restaurant Alloro serves Marvel at the breath-taking architecture of up traditional Italian favorites in an ambient Dubai Marina, take a dip in the Arabian Gulf setting. Hello Café is the perfect option for and experience the world class dining and night grabbing a coffee on the go and Chillz Bar is life options all just a short walk from the hotel. a rooftop pool bar the offers light bites and Surrounded by the waters of the world's largest refreshing beverages. man-made marina, the hotel provides convenient access to famous landmarks and top attractions BRACE YOURSELF FOR BLESIURE: such as Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Mall, Emirates If you need to plan a successful meeting or Golf Course, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa and Burj event look no further than Wyndham Dubai Al Arab. Marina. Renowned for its catering and event management, the upscale property can host THE ASSORTMENT OF events and celebrations of all descriptions. GASTRONOMY: When there’s time for leisure, guests can enjoy The hotel offers a tantalising selection of bars and a pampering session at the Dreamworks Spa, restaurants including The Blacksmith Smokehouse unwind at the sauna and steam room or enjoy a which offers authentic South American smoked dip in the rooftop pool.

22 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 A CTRIPR Invested Company Travstarz DMC Canada

5-Day Canadian Rockies & Hot Springs Winter Tour Package

CA$ 568 Per Person Twin Sharing

Package Includes • Vancouver airport pick-up and drop-off • 4-night hotel accommodations • Professional bilingual tour escort • Transportation in tour coach • Admission fee: Bonus mini ferry(Vancouver in/out guests), National Parks, Sulphur Mtn. Hot Springs

Booking Period :Now Onwards • Tax

Stay Period : Oct 2019 - Apr 2020 * **Service Fee for tour guide/ driver is extra As Per Actual T & C Apply UPDATE HOSPITALITY TravelScapes

Accor and Alibaba Group enter Lemon Tree Hotels debuts in Udaipur into strategic partnership with its new upscale brand ccor and Alibaba Group recently announced a strategic collaboration Ato develop a series of digital applications and loyalty programs to emon Tree Hotels mark the launch elegant yet comfortably informal. improve the consumer and traveller experience over the next five years. Lof the first hotel under the new With an emphasis on design, The announcement was made at a special ceremony in Beijing during the brand, Aurika Hotels & Resorts. This these hotels are a reflection of 2019 China International Import Expo. Accor was among the delegation of is the fifth hotel of the company in the the soul of the destination where French companies accompanying President Emmanuel Macron on a state state of Rajasthan, with hotels already they are located, and each has visit to China. The strategic collaboration will leverage Alibaba’s nearly present in Jaipur, Alwar and Bhiwadi. its own personality. These hotels 700 million consumers across its China retail marketplaces to enable more The majestic Aurika, Udaipur feature new-age dining and Chinese travellers to enjoy Accor’s world-class consumer offerings. It will is spread across five acres of an innovative entertainment options, allow for a seamless integration of Accor’s customer journeys within Alibaba’s undulating hilltop. The strategic complemented by invigorating fitness comprehensive ecosystem. Alibaba’s travel arm Fliggy will allow consumers to location of the hotel places it in and wellness facilities. Inspiring book hotels, access catering services, book entertainment and take advantage close proximity to major sightseeing spaces, flawless delivery and cutting of other lifestyle services. Payments can be made using Alipay, a digital destinations in the city, including City edge technological solutions ensure payment service operated by Alibaba affiliate Ant Financial. Palace, Jagmandir, Saheliyon ki Bari, that our guests can work, play and Bagore ki Haveli, Jagdish Temple and relax effortlessly. the Vintage Car Museum, amongst others. The beautiful Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace is visible from the rooms and public areas and is a short drive from the hotel. The 139 aesthetically designed rooms and suites offer unparalleled views of Aurika hotels are stylishly

Hilton expands and strengthens India leadership team Marriott International debuts JW ilton has appointed Rohit Dar Hand Ranjan Malakar as Regional Directors of Operations in India, Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa aiming to further strengthen the company’s India operations. W Marriott, part of Marriott International, Inc. announced the opening of With India’s travel and tourism JJW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa on Vagaru Island, Shaviyani atoll in the sector continuing to show significant Maldives. The opening marks the debut of Marriott International’s iconic JW growth potential, Hilton has Marriott brand in this paradisiacal island destination, with the brand-new resort appointed more than 10 senior located just 55 minutes via seaplane from the capital of Male, Maldives. leaders from across industries in The stunning new resort features 60 spacious villas, starting at approximately the last two years to lead different 2,520 sq ft, which include private pools and wooden sunbathing decks. Duplex functions and roles in India. The Overwater Pool Villas and single-story Overwater Pool Villas are set on stilts company also moved into new overlooking the clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. “We are thrilled custom-designed offices in Gurgaon to open our JW Marriott brand in this truly amazing destination,” said Mitzi earlier this year as it continues to Gaskins, Vice President & Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “With a focus on invest in expanding its business and Rohit Dar holistic well-being and enriching, thoughtfully-curated experiences, this private hiring the best industry talent. island resort will inspire our guests to be fully present and come together with Navjit Ahluwalia, Senior Vice innovation and performance.” loved ones to enjoy a getaway that nourishes not only the body, but also the mind President and Country Head, Hilton Rohit Dar brings with him over 25 and soul.” India, said, “As we seek to capitalise years of experience in the hospitality on the enormous opportunity for sector with a strong all-round the hospitality sector in India, in our knowledge of hotel operations, 100th anniversary year we continue with his most recent position being to attract top talent from across a as General Manager of Westin wide spectrum of industries and Hyderabad Mindspace. enhance our leadership team. Ranjan Malakar has over two “As such, we are delighted to decades of hospitality experience welcome Rohit and Ranjan into these in multi-functional roles across new positions which will help us locations in India, Maldives, South further improve how we operate our East Asia & Middle East. His business and drive market-leading latest assignment was as Director owner returns. Their experience will Operations, IHG Holiday Inn Express enable us to continue our spirit of & New Projects.

24 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

UPDATE HOSPITALITY TravelScapes Seaside Collection acquires Finolhu a WelcomHeritage opens luxury resort in the Maldives new property in Rajasthan

elcomHeritage (WH), India’s largest Heritage Hotel Chain Whas opened WelcomHeritage Inderpura Resort, which is situated on Delhi road State highway 37B at Udaipurwati of Jhunjhunu District in Rajasthan. Udaipurwati is known as Udaipur of Shekhawati, which was the capital of Raja Todarlmal of Shekhawat Rajput clan. It is located near a very famous Shakambhari Mata Temple. Adjoining is a Kot Dam, which has a former hunting ground (Shikarbagh) of Shekhawat Rulers. The Resort also falls on the route from Delhi to very famous Salasar Balaji Temple. Talking about the new property, Sanjeev K Nayar, GM, WelcomHeritage shared, “The addition of this property is part uxury hotel chain, Seaside Hotels, which works closely with marine biologists and of our strategy to expand and open more properties in the Lnow operates as Seaside Collection, environmental experts, so it was a good fit current financial year. Rajasthan has such abundance of cultural has successfully acquired Finolhu, a luxury for us." properties and we are extremely lucky to find few of such gems island resort in the Baa Atoll of the Maldives. Finolhu, meaning sandbank, is considered and add in our existing portfolio. Udaipurvati is a beautiful Modern and fun, Finolhu is the hotel chain’s one of the finest resorts on Baa Atoll, a location with a vivid historical importance. The picturesque eleventh boutique property and it’s first in the biosphere reserve protected by UNESCO. An location of the property and the cultural heritage of the city Maldives. environmental study for each hotel on the Baa promise to give a perfect holiday experience. Moreover this Gregor Gerlach, CEO and Managing Atoll determines what can be built and how property has close proximity to Delhi/NCR; we expect to see the Partner says, "Whilst the long stretches of things need to be maintained. In addition to business flow from this part of the country on a higher pace, beach, crystal clear waters and the abundance working closely with the Parley for Oceans especially in weekends.” This also happens to be our 10th property of marine life were almost enough to seal organisation, an in-house marine biologist in the state of Rajasthan. to the deal, it was also important that the takes care of the responsible interaction of The property is situated at the foothill of Aravalli range and is resort aligned with the Seaside Collections’ guests and the environment. To avoid plastic spread across 1.75 acres of land surrounded by hills on three sides, brand values. Environmental protection is an pollution, Finolhu has created its own facility with a clear view of the sunset. The property has an inventory important theme at the Seaside Collection for bottling drinking water, it doesn’t use of 21 rooms which are divided into three categories – Super and is something we have won awards plastic straws and discourages guests from deluxe rooms, deluxe rooms and Standard rooms. There are two for. Finolhu is largely self-sufficient and bringing plastic bottles to the resort. restaurants for the guests - A multi-cuisine restaurant that serves buffet and can accommodate 50 people indoor and another 30 in the adjoining open verandah and a Barbeque- which serves Barbequed/grilled food and beverages and is situated near the The Fern Hotels & Resorts opens hotel swimming pool. Apart from this there is facility for the corporate meetings and in Bhopal business groups as WH Inderpura Resort also has a conference hall spread across 1600 sq ft ,which can easily accommodate a he Fern Hotels & Resorts, India's Bedside Bluetooth connection. small business conferences and seminars. Besides, the resort has Tleading environmentally sensitive hotel Other facilities which the guest can beautifully landscaped gardens which can accommodate upto chain has opened The Fern Residency enjoy include, a finely-designed world 1000 guests, ideal for weddings, social gatherings and more. Bhopal, the first Fern Hotel to open in cuisine restaurant, a lounge bar, swimming Madhya Pradesh. The company also pool, fitness centre and spacious banquet manages a hotel under the Beacon brand halls for conferences, weddings and social in the state capital. This takes the number occasions. The hotel is very conveniently of hotels managed by the company to 68 located in the downtown ISBT area, with hotels across the country as well as in Nepal easy access to the city centre and the major and Seychelles. sightseeing attractions in town. Suhail Kannampilly, the CEO of the company said,” The Fern brand is expanding in the country at a brisk pace. With the opening of The Fern Residency Bhopal, we are now present in 55 cities across the country.” The Fern Residency, Bhopal is a 58-room hotel offering contemporary accommodations. The hotel offers three different categories of room viz. Winter Green, Winter Green Premium and Hazel Suite. Some of the amenities in the rooms include packaged water, eco-friendly light arrangement and bathroom conveniences, tea maker, satellite TV connections and

26 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

SPECIAL FEATURE TravelScapes WILL THE STRONG WIND OF CHANGE SHED OFF THE COCOON AROUND NORTH EAST?

There is no denial of the fact that India tourism's growth story needs to be inclusive to be relevant and economically sustainable. However, for the past few years the country’s North East Region (NER) even after having its distinct advantages, has been experiencing a comparatively slower pace of socio- economic growth, in spite of government having identified the key development areas. A mirage of hope rises while we see the government prioritising the imminent need to further develop and facelift the NE Region and work towards increasing its inter-regional contact with the next-door nations and enhance connectivity to the various corners of India and overseas. Standing at the verge of becoming a million-dollar business opportunity which still looks like a farfetched vision, North East Region deserves much more attention further boosting hopes for a brighter future

By Gagneet Kaur

lessed with picturesque gifts of Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, different people and cultures, North- and foreign tourist visits into the nature, the North East region Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura East Region provides a wonderful North East Region has always been Bof our country is known as abounding the region, vast natural opportunity for exploratory tourism at a pricking point. As per the India the "Paradise Unexplored". With resources, snow-capped Himalayas, its very best. Tourism Statistics 2017, the total seven sisters including, Arunachal tropical forests and a cauldron of The inflow of both domestic domestic tourist visits during the

28 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 TravelScapes SPECIAL FEATURE

year 2016 was 77.13 lakh, which the infrastructural bottlenecks to East strategy, opening up the air to for start-ups introduced by DoNER was a meagre 0.47 per cent of the induce sustainable development in new trade routes with Southeast Ministry. total domestic tourist visits within the region. Asia, hasn’t seen a flight take off India's north-east has been a India. The foreign tourist footfall in On the connectivity front, as since June after SpiceJet stopped focal point of its Act East Policy, as the region has been no better. The recently announced, The Airport its flights from Kolkata, citing well as a precursor of Look East. year 2016 recorded 1.38 lakh foreign Authority of India (AAI) took up operational constraints. Pakyong’s Given the region's strategic location tourist arrivals (FTAs) in the region, projects worth INR 3,500 crore for condition is similar to that of several - states here share borders with which was merely 0.55 per cent of the expansion and up-gradation of the other airports in eastern India China, Bhutan, Bangladesh and total FTAs into India. airports in the North East region. that were set up under the UDAN Myanmar - it occupies a central The North Eastern states of The AAI official said that under the Scheme and where the necessary place in many key multilateral Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, ongoing project worth INR 500 crore infrastructure has not been installed connectivity projects, such as the Nagaland and Sikkim have registered in the Agartala airport, renamed in the two years they have been India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral a considerable growth rate in FTAs last year as Maharaja Bir Bikram operational. Highway and the wider Bangladesh, in 2016 over 2015, ranging from 15 Airport, the full-body scanner Without a doubt, railway China, India and Myanmar Economic per cent in Arunachal Pradesh to would be installed here for the first connectivity in the Northeast Corridor. But progress on these around 18 per cent in Mizoram and time in India. He added that the air has progressed well. Capitals of projects has been slow, unlike on air Nagaland and more than 70 per cent connectivity developments in North Northeastern states are getting connectivity. The region, therefore, in Sikkim, however, while Meghalaya East Region will soon play a ‘change connected by rail with the rest of must modernise cross-border and Tripura have grown by around agent’ role towards the overall India. Agartala and Silchar are now supply chains to unlock value and five per cent, Assam and Manipur had development of the region in terms having broad-gauge railway lines create business opportunities. registered negative growth rates. of tourism industry, industrialisation, and connected with other parts of This has to be done jointly by The high growth in some of the trades and employment generation. India. Railway development has made state and union governments. The states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Also while speaking at the second positive impacts on common people, government and the private sector Nagaland and Sikkim may look ASEAN-India Youth Summit, which who are now more integrated with need to collaborate and take the impressive, however, in terms was organised in Guwahati, Assam, the rest of India. Indian Railways lead in providing solutions to these of absolute number; the overall Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister has already started train services problems. More reform needs to be performance of the region had Pema Khandu announced that since between the Dharmanagar, Agartala initiated in a range of areas including been dismal and distant from the Northeast India and ASEAN region and Sabroom in Tripura. The railway infrastructure as well as in creating potential that the region has in terms have less aerial distance, air service link to Sabroom is vital for the new avenues of growth through the of attracting both the domestic and could be started from at least six development of the state of Tripura, development of cross-border trade. foreign tourists alike. airports in Northeast with ASEAN and linking it with Chittagong Port Another ray of hope for the The reason for the region countries, according to a report. The will open new vistas for the entire region came up when recently gaining an immediate momentum ASEAN countries include Malaysia, NER. The railway line will reach Singh informed via Twitter that over the last few years is because Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Imphal by 2020. the construction of the ‘North East the development in the North Philippines, Cambodia, Myanmar, Railway connectivity with Convention Centre’ (NECC) for New East has caught the attention of Vietnam, Brunei and Laos. Bangladesh will be a game-changer. Delhi will begin after completion policymakers in the government. Speaking about the initiatives Today, Agartala has direct rail, road of procedural formalities. This The central government has now for Northeast recently, the DoNER and air connectivity with the rest Centre will act as a cultural and given a big push to a diverse range of Minister, Dr Jitendra Singh said of India and Bangladesh has been convention/information hub of the infrastructure projects in the North that connecting Northeast with the providing transit to all modes of North Eastern Region in Delhi. It Eastern Region. The emphasis has rest of the country is the priority transportation except railways. An will be constructed at par with the been on improving rail, road, air of Modi Government. Various steps express highway project along the international standards and will and inland waterways connectivity have been taken to boost rail, air Brahmaputra River, costing INR have a library-cum-reading room in the region which is considered as and road connectivity, he added. Dr 40,000 crores and spanning 1,300 with material on North Eastern an inhibitor for tapping the tourism Jitendra Singh said that the budget kilometres will come up and that Region, an art gallery showcasing the potential of North East. The massive to Northeast has been increased. He is expected to resolve connectivity North East. investments being made by Ministry said that a train has been started issues in Assam. Along with enhanced connectivity, of Tourism in building tourism from Itanagar to New Delhi i.e. Singh during the recent North better promotions, identification infrastructure and by Ministry of Arunachal Express and added that East Festival also highlighted that of multiple avenues for growth and DoNER (Ministry of Development the train will soon be flagged off to the North East model of development development, the level of economic of North Eastern Region) and other Bangladesh from North East. has become a reference point for activity is bound to increase and ministries in building roads, bridges Guwahati is now directly replication in other parts of India. the region becomes of paramount and improving connectivity by air, connected by air with most of There is so much to learn from the importance eventually. But the rail and waterways have helped major Indian cities and Dhaka, Paro North East. He said that some states vision needs to be realised only the region to considerably evolve and Bangkok for passenger and like Sikkim have GDP that most when there is a combined effort in terms of attracting more tourist Hong Kong for freight. However, of the other states don’t have. He of all the stakeholders and the footfalls. Building inter-regional NER’s other airports are behind of spoke about the citrus fruit park government. To take a deeper insight people-to-people contact between Guwahati in connecting with abroad. in Mizoram. The Minister said that into how the region is chugging North East India and ASEAN Air service between Imphal and North East has a lot to offer to rest forward towards growth, delineating countries, as part of India’s ‘Act Mandalay is needed to support the of India. He spoke about women the challenges and opportunities, East Policy’ and providing financial growing health and wellness tourism empowerment in Northeast. He we speak with the key industry support to the North Eastern in NER. Maiden flights from Imphal added that NE is New Engine for stakeholders who, while prioritising states for cultural events, publicity, to Mandalay and Agartala to Dhaka development of North East and said the ongoing interventions also promotion, fairs and festivals have are likely to start soon. However, the that young entrepreneurs are also mention about how a stronger pull also been the top agendas of the scenic Pakyong airport in Sikkim, travelling to the North East to find towards the region eventually raises Tourism Ministry. Several steps have at a height of 4,646 feet, which new avenues of employment. He also the North East to a higher level of also been undertaken to overcome was planned as part of India’s Act mentioned about 'Venture fund' inclusive development.

DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 29 SPECIAL FEATURE TravelScapes

POTENTIAL OPPORTUNITIES CHALLENGES & SCOPES

The very purpose of launching ADTOI state chapter in the North East Despite the best efforts, by tourism is to increase the membership base and to showcase the tourism stakeholders and the region of North East potential of the region to other ADTOI members on PAN India basis has not witnessed the amount of tourist so that tourists can be wooed to visit destinations in North East India traffic inflow the region deserves. There has through their marketing strategies. We, at ADTOI, are committed to be all round development in the tourism to promote North East India among the domestic tourists through infrastructure facilities in all the states in roadshows and B2B meetings with tour operators of North East India North East India. States may be lacking either in Delhi or by organising B2B meetings in any of North Eastern that kind of facilities the tourists both states while on FAM trip to the region. According to me, North East domestic and international are looking for. Council, an organisation dedicated to the promotion of North East is Connectivity in the region can be improved doing all their best to showcase North East through Yearly Festival to some extent by all modes including road, ‘Rongali’ in Guwahati. Ministry of Tourism also organises International rail and air. Tourism Mart every year in North East for both domestic and PP Khanna, international stakeholders of the industry to have B2B meeting with President, Association of Domestic Tour local stakeholders of the industry Operators of India (ADTOI)

POTENTIAL OPPORTUNITIES CHALLENGES & SCOPES

The current state of growth is certainly The growth in number of visitors to the North East region should encouraging for the tourism stake holders also mean direct benefit to the locals, the host communities and all of the region and this would not have been government agencies must ensure that the growth is inclusive and free possible without the tremendous efforts of the of any impediments. Unfortunately, the business of tourism is burdened government. The tourism sector is certainly with a common approach that, tourism is a business of leisure and on the path of growth and local entrepreneurs tourists spend disposable income and so the tourism businesses should and service providers are prepared to handle be taxed more, more entry fees, more toll fees and more. Without the growth in number of visitors to the region. realising that this specific approach is what impedes growth of tourism. Instead government agencies should focus on creating sustainable tourism infrastructure in partnership with local tourism and hospitality businesses and sustainable growth is inevitable. I most definitely see growth of tourism in the North East region in the coming three years but we should plan and prepare for the next thirty Nirmalya Choudhary, or fifty and consider seriously about what we are going to be leaving Chairman IATO North East States behind for the local tourism entrepreneurs of the future.

POTENTIAL OPPORTUNITIES CHALLENGES & SCOPES

Every tourist now wants to feel inspired by the Development is happening, although not on a fast track. However, what places they visit. Globalisation and technology plays the greatest role in attracting tourists is airfare. Airlines have no has led to sameness of mainstream travel options as landing and other costs are pretty high in the region, which experiences and destinations and so travellers act as deterrents for many interested tourists. Also, there has to be crave lesser-known and local authentic efficient connectivity with neighbouring countries. It is unfortunate experiences, which Northeast can offer in that the Dhaka-Guwahati flight was withdrawn on the plea that Dhaka plenty. Special interest tours thus have crucial is already connected with Kolkata. The route, Dhaka-Sylhet-Guwahati scope in boosting the tourism sector of the (instead of Dhaka-Guwahati-Dhaka) would have been a huge boost region. Over time, by observing the traveller’s since Sylhet in Bangladesh and Meghalaya has strong land trade interests, we have formalised special interest connections. This could have extended to Assam as cultural or trade or and personalised tours, even accessible tours even medical tourism since Assam has good healthcare facilities. - specially customised for guests who need Also, with regional and cross-border tourism becoming increasingly barrier-free environments. popular in the last few decades, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar Such travel products that are adventurous, Arijit Purkayastha, can play significant roles in boosting tourism in the Northeast region. personalised and attuned to local culture Chapter Chairman - North East, For example, Bhutan-Assam regional tourism can be a focus area, with resonate on a deeper emotional level. Association of Domestic Tour Operators Bhutan and Assam participating as a brand in travel fairs and road Travellers, therefore, come to NE region to of India (ADTOI) shows. Travel brand segments can likewise be developed for regions of experience its wonders as guests while they go other northeast states with each other or adjoining countries. back as friends.

30 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 TravelScapes IN CONVERSATION UDUPI CARVES A GROWTH MAP TO BOOST THE KEY THRIVING SEGMENTS G. Jagadeesha, I.A.S., Deputy Commissioner & District Magistrate & Chairman, District Tourism Development Committee (DTDC), Udupi District in a tête-à-tête with TravelScapes reveals how Udupi is eventually making strides on the developmental front while also affirming DTDC's immediate plan of action for outlining an ideal roadmap for future growth By Gagneet Kaur ituated in the state of Karnataka, developing two kilometer stretches of Swith the splendid highlands of every beach. Presently, there are five the Western Ghats on one side and houseboat and scuba diving activities striking Arabian Sea on the other, and we are further concentrating on Udupi indeed sits on the shoulders Kudru (island) Tourism, Heritage of magnificent natural beauty and Tourism, Religious Tourism, Adventure a pompous history, heritage and Tourism, Coastal Tourism and more. cultural inheritance. Acclaimed for its Going forward for 2020, we would enchanting religious places, beaches continue participating in the events, and picturesque backdrops of nature, updating the website, app and social Udupi has lately caught attention and media to engage more people and also is lauded by the tourists and nature planning to publish the brochures, enthusiasts alike. booklets and more.” "Udupi is derived from the word Recently, the Udupi Tourism ‘Udupa’ which means moon in Department received a tremendous Sanskrit and is associated with response from the buyers after the establishment of the ancient participating in the Karnataka Tourism Chandramouleshwara Temple. Travel Expo 2019 and IITE Mangalore. Geographically, the region is separated Jagadeesha feels that the involvement of from the rest of the south interior key tourism stakeholders in every event day out and adventure sports activities. boating tourism operators as an peninsula by the towering heights of and exhibition is crucial for the growth Recently, Padubidari Beach in the indication of their high environmental the Western Ghats. The district Udupi of the destination in terms of both district got nominated for the Blue flag and quality standards. Certificates, was carved out from the erstwhile revenue and visibility. certification and the work is under which Foundation for Environmental Dakshina Kannada district during Being one of the gorgeous coastal progress. When asked about how this Education (FEE) refers to as awards, are 1997,” explains Jagadeesha. towns of Karnataka, Udupi’s very development is aiding the local people, issued on an seasonal basis to beaches Adding further, he says, “Department presence is quite prominent because of Jagadeesha mentions that several and marinas of FEE member countries. of Tourism, Udupi has identified 76 its spotless beaches that add a unique job opportunities for them are made The standards were established by new tourist destinations and is now in charm to the city. With extensive available, which eventually is making the Copenhagen-based FEE in 1985, process of preparing the master plan coastlines and shimmering golden the district viable and economic in wherein a beach had to strictly comply for all the tourist destinations that sands, these stunning and clean a true sense. The Blue Flag is sought with 33 environment and tourism- focuses on the beaches which include beaches are equally perfect for a lazy for beaches, marinas and sustainable related conditions.

31 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 31 #What'sTrending With a wide range of terrains to explore and tales to discover at mountains, beaches, palaces, religious sites, forts, ruins of ancient kingdoms and wonders of nature, the sheer diversity this world has to offer is astonishing. From adrenaline-filled adventures to enthralling stroll along the experiential trails; these destinations's distinct facets are sure to allure the visitors. Coming up with yet another distinctive product, we hereby present a selection of destinations that are buzzing across the social media and are nothing less than a blissful paradise that the vacationers can look forward to in 2020

By Kritika Dua TravelScapes #WHAT'S TRENDING

ZHANGJIAJIE

amed eversince the movie 'Avatar', Fox Fairy show is a large-scale real-scene FZhangjiajie has become a refreshing musical drama featuring a love story destination bestowed with magnificent between a fox fairy and a woodsman mountain and river scenery offering that has its origin in a traditional Chinese the travellers an escape from the hustle folklore. performance area is located in the and bustle of daily life. The city features five km long valley of Tianmen Mountain. a vast variety of unique terrains be its The panoramic stage is made of glass mountainous regions, upland areas, plains and steel and provides an enriching and Karst rock areas. Interestingly, the experience. The audience is seated at mountains cover 76 per cent of the total a colossal amphitheatre at the foothill area. The famed natural heritage site of the Tianmen Mountain where the Wulingyuan Scenic Area is located on surroundings reverberate the magical folk the base of these great mountains. The songs and theatrical music. areas that would be worth visiting on a Wulingyuan Scenic Area covers several trip to Zhangjiajie city include Zhangjiajie natural features such as mountains, rise skyward from the valley floor some The experience of drifting on the National Forest Park (known as China's forests, caves, lakes and waterfalls and over of them up to 200m tall with tufts of Maoyan River is quite surreal as you can first national forest park), Suoxiyu Nature three thousand rock ridges approximately evergreen shrubs clinching to their narrow enjoy the sight of over 30 scenic spots Reserve and Tianzi Mountain Nature and around eight hundred ghylls. This summits. It boasts of the narrow valley along the river. The experience of drifting Reserve among others. Climbing 999 wonderland is shrouded with dense A Strip of Sky, Sky Ladder Plank Road, on the Maoyan River is quite surreal. The steps the riders step out onto the ‘Gateway forests. The otherworldly towering stone Barrel Cliff, Flying Fox Rushing Downhill, length for drifting is 25 kilometres and the to Heaven’ located at one of the summits forest Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is lined Pearl Wall, Butterfly Spring Waterfall as zigzags in the river offer an exhilarating of the Tianmen Mountain range. Tianmen with giant sandstone pinnacles that well as Swallow Cliff. journey.

DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 33 #WHAT'S TRENDING TravelScapes

with exciting activities including a VR room. There are some other beach resorts as well. Head to Omar Riding Club in Mehdiabad for some horse riding fun, there are several other activities that families can revel in AZERBAIJAN including a natural lake where you can ride boats or catamarans or go fishing. There’s also a mini zoo as well as a fun children’s playground. With ethereal backdrops, Azerbaijan encompasses an array of venues, from luxury and mid- range hotels, to en-suite bungalows, provincial motels and even private homestays for a perfect wedding. Besides the resorts in Baku for a dream wedding, outside of hotels host couples can tie the knot at Ateshgar or ‘Fire Temple of Baku’. Some of the activities you can indulge in Azerbaijan include riding a Gondola in Baku Boulevard, exploring the only museum of miniature books in the world Baku Museum of Miniature Books, kite surfing in Shuraabad, witnessing the intricate craftsmanship of Sheki Khan Palace, strolling around the Pearl of Azerbaijani architecture Icheri Seher which is aUNESCO he 'Land of Fire' and the 'Pearl Palaeolithic Age till the beginning Amburan Mall is in the vicinity and World Heritage Site, hiking up the Tof the Caucasus', Azerbaijan of this era. The open-air museum boasts of a kids’ entertainment zone picturesque mountains and more. is a mermersising blend of eastern also features a prehistoric cromlech. traditions and western advancement. There’s also graffiti by a Roman It’s a land of Caucasian hospitality and legionary. Here you can also witness friendliness. Ranging from alluring the remains of human settlements, natural heritage to rich culinary burials, ancient tombstones, around culture and stimulating cities, the 350 mud volcanoes and inhabited country is still undiscovered by many, caves. Travellers can go on a vivid however, has plentiful attractions journey exploring the planets and and activities to offer to its visitors. A across the galaxy at Tusi-Bohm great destination to study pre-history planetarium that is located in the of humanity and various spheres of heart of Baku. The planetarium offers a primitive art, Gobustan, rising out range of movies, cartoons, enlightening of the semi-desert, is home to over documentaries and special exhibits. 6,000 rock engravings spanning over Amburan Beach Club, a splendid 537 hectares. Gobustan’s monuments family-friendly destination, is a resort cover a period of around 20,000 years with pools, aquapark, private beach, beginning from the end of the Upper playground, kids club and restaurants.

34 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

#WHAT'S TRENDING TravelScapes

TAIWAN aiwan is a land of scrumptious than 1000m high and offers a bird’s Tcuisines, vibrant festivities and eye view of Taipei. Nicknamed the holy temples and beyond that, it 'Backyard of Taipei', Yangmingshan makes for an ideal escapade. With its is situated in the Yangmingshan towering peaks, scenic vista, cascading National Park and boasts of golden waterfalls and pristine national parks, sunsets and steam from volcanic travellers may have an extraordinary vents, waterfalls and hot springs. experience here. It encompasses The Alishan Range is located from abundant mountaineering resources, Lugu Township in Nantou County with 268 peaks over 3,000 m in to Jiguan Hill in Kaohsiung. The height awaiting climbers and hikers to highest peak of the Alishan Range explore the striking scenery. Everyone is Datashan, which has a height of with an interest in adventure, hiking 2,663 m. Among the island’s many and the outdoors should consider other tall mountains, Hehuanshan exploring the mountains of Taiwan. is the most accessible and offers the Its magnificent mountainous terrain greatest variety of attractions. Besides includes Taiwan’s and Northeast Asia’s this, some of the other mountains tallest peak, 12,966-foot Mount Yushan as Mount Jade. It’s located within the Taipei, Yangmingshan, which translates that travellers can add to their is also known Yushan National Park in the central to Bright Sun Mountain, can be one bucket list are Nenggao Historic Trail, mountains of Taiwan. The Xueshan of the favourite spots of those who Dabajianshan, Wuling Sixiu, Mount Range or Snow Mountain Range faces wish to escape the hustle-bustle of Hehuan, Mount Hehuan and Taiping the Central Mountain Range on the city life. The mountain is more Mountain, to name a few. the southeast. It extends from Santiao Chiao to the north coast of Zhuoshui River at Xinyi Township in Nantou County and has a total length of about 260 km. Xueshan Main Peak (Snow Mountain) is also the second- highest mountain peak in Taiwan and has a height of 3,886 m. Shei-Pa National Park is located around the peaks of Xueshan and Dabajianshan. Located in the outskirts of

36 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

#WHAT'S TRENDING TravelScapes

RAJASTHAN ajasthan is vibrant, exotic, Rmagnificent and enigmatic, it’s dotted with palaces, forts, desert and wildlife. Dausa, Dholpur, Karauli, Tonk, Bhilwara, Baran, Jalore, Dungarpur, Shekhawati, Hanumangarh, Jhalawar, Kota are among the relatively unexplored heavens of Rajasthan. Udaipur or City of Lakes is brimmed with alluring and expansive lakes and old palaces which enhance the architectural charm and grandeur of the city. It is hemmed in by lush green hills of Aravallis. Udaipur is also home to Jaisamand Lake and Sajjangarh temples. If geology interests you then (Monsoon Palace). The exquisite you can visit The Wood Fossil Park or City Palace Complex stretches along Aakal that is located about 15 km away the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, from the city. dominates the city landscape. Visitors Pushkar is a holy city with a tranquil can witness a display of personal royal vibe that attracts an array of tourists heirlooms, family photos and some and devotees owing to over 50 other memorabilia in the City Palace ghats and temples. It is surrounded Museum. You can even stay in the City by hillocks on three sides. The city comes alive during The Pushkar Fair or Pushkar Mela (camel and livestock Palace. The ten-day Shilpgram Festival fair) that takes place for a couple of that takes place from December 21 to days in October or November. The 30 attracts arts and crafts enthusiasts. International Hot Air Balloon Festival The scenic sandstone city Jaisalmer is held every year in Pushkar. The rises from the dunes of the Thar desert. city offers a mélange of mythological Jaisalmer fort or Sonar Qila (Golden history and architectural heritage. It Fort) is perched high on a pedestal is home to the only temple dedicated overlooking the city. The fort houses to Lord Brahma in the world. Being five palaces, hotels, shops, several Rajasthan’s only hill station, Mount temples and some ancient havelis Abu serves as a source of comfort (mansions) which are magnificent from the hot desert climate of the and generations continue to reside state. It is shrouded in vast stretches here among other residences. Desert of forests, lakes and waterfalls and is a Festival, organised around January to popular tourist destination. Here you February, is among the popular festivals can explore Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar, here. Jaisalmer is famed for camel Jain temples, Mount Abu Wildlife safaris, museums, havelis, palaces and Sanctuary and Achalgarh Fort.

38 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

SPOTLIGHT TravelScapes DUBAI TOURISM AIMS TO ENHANCE ITS REPEATED ARRIVALS CONFIDENT OF CLOSING NEXT YEAR’S TARGET NUMBERS WITH THE BOOST PROVIDED BY EXPO 2020 By Sayanti Halder

ith the ongoing surge of from 200 to 20,000 people. Wthe outbound segment of When asked about the few of travellers from the India market, the the attractions within the Expo 7th most visited city in the world, 2020 area, Khosla shares that a Dubai is working towards changing 65-metre high, 360-degree dome the usually-held perception among at the centre of the Expo will be tourists of being a short-duration one of the key attractions, followed destination. "One of our core areas by sustainability pavilion, other of focus is on increasing the length thematic pavilions and pavilions of of stays of travellers in Dubai. all the participating 192 countries. There is a perception that Dubai is He further informs that test runs a stopover destination and staying of some of the key components there for two to three days is more shaping the Expo 2020 will start than enough, however, it is not from April 2021. The event has accurate," claims Issam Kazim, already appointed 1,300 ticket CEO, Department of Tourism and resellers, globally. “The effort is on Commerce Marketing (DTCM). He to engage as many ticket resellers as further informs that visitors can possible in markets like India. The easily spend around 10 days in commissions for ticket reselling will Dubai and still not be able to see be based on the volumes,” he states. all the things that it has to offer. India, he said, is a very important Besides this, Dubai is also focusing market for Dubai Tourism and on increasing the number of visitors therefore, the tourism authority and repeat visits by travellers within keeps reinventing its marketing 2019. and promotion strategy to keep Kazim states that around 25 per active around the year. “We have cent of total arrivals, having 12 per moved from a seasonal strategy to a cent of it from India every year, are throughout-the-year-run approach repeated visitations, 80 per cent (L to R): Sanjive Khosla and Issam Kazim of marketing strategy with relevant of which is non-business. “We are campaigns throughout the year. mapping out the key areas, required visitations to the city in the first half of 192 countries. Many festivals are We cannot afford to switch off our to boost incoming tourists from of the year. scheduled around Expo 2020. There campaigns in a market like India. India by also focusing on repeat Attributing the success of Dubai’s will be 250 days of offers and deals Rather, we aim to foray into the tier visitations,” he adds while revealing tourism to the highly collaborative to attract shopping enthusiasts from II and III Indian cities with such that DTCM is also looking forward PPP model, the CEO comments that nearby regions including India, he campaigns,” he explains elaborating to the support and investments of the city has been able to achieve the added. Sharing more details about different activities such as school- private sectors for adding to the goals of the tourism strategy set in the Expo 2020, Sanjive Khosla, break campaigns, monsoon incoming footfall. Despite difficult 2013 because of this collaborative Chief Commercial Officer, Expo campaign, luxury break campaign conditions, especially on the air approach with the private industry. 2020 expresses the confidence and Diwali campaign. Also, Dubai capacity front due to the abrupt He quotes that the new incentive that the event will become one of possesses a 50 km long cycling track withdrawal of Jet Airways from scheme of 10 per cent waiver in the greatest shows that Asia has that DTCM aims to promote as an the market, Dubai Tourism is still municipality fee for first five years witnessed, which is happening for avenue of novelty. hopeful of closing the year on a for investors who set up in three the first time in the Asian continent. Further, Kazim mentions about positive note when it comes to and four-star hotels to make a more He reveals that they are expecting Dubai’s future projects of extending Indian arrival numbers. According affordable inventory available for 25 million visitors to the Expo over the Atlantis, The Palm before the to Kazim, although the capacity Expo 2020 as an example for this six months with an average footfall commencement of Expo 2020 and constraints have had a negative collaborative approach. of 1,40,000 people, per day. “The leveraging more of PPP models in the effect for a brief and numbers from Sharing the preparations that Expo area is planned to hold three city. Dubai jumped from the fourth the target of 20 million visitors are underway for the Expo 2020, lakh visitors in a day,” he says and position to the third of international by the end of 2020 were pulled the global event which Dubai is expects around 17 to 18 per cent ranking in terms of tourist arrivals. down, the same got corrected and hosting from October 20, 2020 to visitations to the Expo from India. Having received a shy of 16 million normalcy being achieved sooner April 10, 2021, the CEO said that Talking about the same, he tourists already till 2018 (10 million than later, which helped Dubai to all preparations are on schedule in mentions that there will be 20 in 2013 to 16 million in 2018), Kazim recover ground and post a marginal District 22 to make the Expo the performance venues at the Expo is optimistic of touching the said three per cent growth in Indian biggest ever with the participation 2020 with a capacity ranging numbers within the stipulated time.

40 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 Visiting WTM 2019? Stay at one of our stylish London hotels close to Hyde Park. Brilliantly located, the bustle of Paddington is a short stroll away, while the green expanse of Hyde Park, perfect for families, is equally close. Enjoy a great stay with exciting inclusions, at one of London’s best locations.

Your WTM package includes: - Complimentary transfer by deluxe coach to and from ExCel (at agreed timing) - Complimentary Indian/English breakfast - Indian TV channels - Unlimited calls to India via handy mobile services Park Grand London Paddington Park Grand Paddington Court London

Single Room Deluxe Double/Twin Room £139 £149

Rates per room per night. Terms & conditions apply. Subject to VAT

Central Reservations Tel: +44 (0) 20 7479 2273 www.parkgrandlondon.com

UPDATE OUTBOUND TravelScapes Tourism Authority of Thailand organises Loi Krathong Festival celebration in New Delhi

ourism Authority of Thailand art of making the krathongs and Plaza Delhi Airport Hotel & TNew Delhi organised a celebratory the popular umbrella painting from Thai Airways for their support evening to mark the vibrant Loi Northern Thailand. The performances in making this a successful Krathong Festival at Radisson Blu ended with a procession where Miss Loi evening.” Delhi Airport hotel on November 11, Krathong was carried on a palanquin Pinki Arora, Marketing two million Indians to Thailand which 2019. It was a splendid evening as to the pool site where she invited Representative, North and East India, I am sure we would be able to achieve several floating candles and krathongs the guests to release the candle and Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal, by the end of the year and we hope for decorated the venue, showcasing Thai incense lit krathongs. Isra Stapanaseth, , Tourism Authority of Thailand a 10 per cent increase in these figures. art and culture and celebrating the Director, Tourism Authority of informed that during Loi Krathong We support travel agents through festival of lights. Thailand, New Delhi said, “It gives us Festival people in Thailand float various ways and organise cultural The evening began with an alluring great joy to celebrate the Loi Krathong candle-lit Krahtongs as a couple in festivals, roadshows, luxury roadshows, cultural performance put together by festival in New Delhi after a gap of four any water body and this ritual is done FAM trips for travel agents and media a team of dancers from Thailand and years. This event will give the guests a to float away their sins, wish for a to experience the destination first- was led by Nang Noppamas followed glimpse of Thai art & culture, traditions bright future and pay homage to the hand and for travel agents to sell by a special Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) and of course a taste of delicious and river goddess Pra Mae Khongkha. This the destination.” Chutintorn Sam performance that was greatly enjoyed authentic Thai food. We would like festival first started in Sukhothai. She Gongsakdi, Ambassador of Thailand by the guests. They also learnt the to thank our partners Radisson Blu added, “In 2019, we aim to welcome to India released leaf boat in the hotel Radisson Blu Plaza's pool. Over two hundred guests including Dr R Kapur, Owner, Radisson Blu Hotel Delhi, Ashwani Goela, General Manager, Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport well- known personalities, HNI, media and members of the travel trade fraternity, were invited to celebrate the delightful event where candle-lit krathongs with incense stick, flowers and a coin twinkled on the water.

TCEB debuts ‘Thailand MICE Showcase’ in India to redefine marketing activity

CEB debuts its ‘Thailand MICE moment during the networking and as a sign of commitment, TCEB other countries in Southeast Asia. TShowcase’ in India on November session. Thailand welcomed the continues to invest in India. The seven MICE themes’ campaign 13, gathering a total of 119 buyers highest number of MICE travellers With the help of the local Thai was showcased and very well received from 14 cities across India to meet 31 from India, close to India 220,000 in industry partners, TCEB has by event planners especially the Thai suppliers at Le Meridien – Delhi 2019. This represents a growth of 42 successfully co-created 115 new three theme that focuses on a real sense NCR. The initiative aimed to enhance per cent from last year and it is also products located across its five MICE of adventures and team building return on investment, time and effort the first time ever the numbers from cities such as Bangkok, Pattaya, activities such as water sport and for both sides. India have exceeded the 2,00,000 Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen and Phuket. virtual reality trekking experiences The event brought opportunities mark. The Thailand Convention and Under the third phase of TCEB’s in Bangkok and Pattaya. The show for buyers and sellers to share Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) launched seven magnificent MICE themes, the also had a Thai theme showcase with knowledge during the ‘Knowledge a new campaign for the meeting bureau will be introducing nine other Siam Niramit and Blue elephant Session’ meet one-on-one during the and incentive planners to support cities in 2020 giving more MICE showcasing the Thai Cultural business session and share a lighter them winning business for Thailand destination alternatives than any elements of dance and food.

44 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 TravelScapes

BRINGING MORE HAPPINESS TO 'THE CITY OF JOY' NSCBI, Kolkata airport aims to raise the standard of entire eastern India ormerly known as Calcutta, commenced from Kolkata to Hanoi, roofing designs for the airport 240-square feet area green wall at the capital of West Bengal and in Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City to terminal are rooted with the rich the Departure Hall and two more Fformer capital of British India, Guangzhou, China has started from cultural heritage of Kolkata and green walls at the ‘Arrival’ level. Kolkata is one of India’s largest the Kolkata Airport as of October Bengal, inspired by Rabindranath The green wall is spread across four cities and one of its major ports. 2019. Tagore. On the domestic departure different locations where the indoor The city is centered on the east level of the terminal building, green wall provides insulation to bank of the Hooghly River and is PASSENGER TRAFFIC ANALYSIS three standalone art pieces keep the inside temperature of a thriving metropolis of eastern The New Integrated Terminal become the center of attraction the buildings at a consistent level. India. The vibrant city, also known Building has a capacity of handling for the passengers, a ‘Baul’ dance Kolkata Airport has also started its as 'The City of Joy' has a penchant around 26 million passengers, sculpture that gives a glimpse drive to make the airport plastic- for art and culture and flaunts annually with all state-of-the-art of the rich culture of Bengali free by curtailing the use of single- high level of intellectual vitality passenger facilities. Kolkata Airport folk songs, a figurine comprising use plastic and have introduced and political awareness. Standing witnessed 10 per cent growth in of the masks worn during folk biodegradable environment-friendly amidst the hub is the Netaji Subhash passenger volume in the year 2018- dance performances such as Chau utility items. Chandra Bose International Airport 19 with an approximate figure of 2, Dance masks, etc. and the musical (NSCBI Airport), Kolkata, which 18, 77, 350 passengers. instruments of Bengal. Another was originally known as Dum Dum remarkable artwork at the airport NEW INITIATIVES TAKEN Airport. Renamed in the honour FACILITIES is in the security hold area of the • The construction of an Air of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Kolkata Airport has 128 check- domestic departure that flaunts Traffic Control (ATC) tower in 1995, NSCBI Airport is spread in in counters facilitating CUTE the first 3D printed Durga idol of and a technical block has an area of 1641.34 acres of land (Common User Terminal Equipment) the world. As part of the 150th started with AAI getting all and is the gateway to the eastern technology, 56 immigration Birth Anniversary of Mahatma security and design approval and northeast part of India with counters, 18 aerobridges, nine Gandhi, AAI, in association with of the project an annual capacity of handling remote boarding gates and Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, • Construction of three over 26 million passengers. Kolkata 63 parking stands for aircraft. established ‘Gandhi Gallery’ hangars with annexe Airport is the fifth busiest airport In addition, 18 escalators, 13 at different airports across the building at Narayanpur in the country after Mumbai, Delhi, travellators and 31 elevators are country to propagate his ideals and side of the airport is also Chennai and Bengaluru and has there in the terminal building. A principles. In the Kolkata Airport in progress and is likely to witnessed 26 per cent growth in total of 16 baggage conveyor belts gallery, one could see Gandhiji’s be completed by mid-2020. passenger volume last financial year are also functional at the arrival area association with West Bengal, For the convenience of 2018-19. The airport is the largest in and eight at departure level. The in- displayed in 24 panels. transit passenger, a separate Eastern India having 24 international line baggage scanning system is also domestic transfer facility is and 10 domestic airlines operating provided for international travellers SOCIAL CONTRIBUTION being developed from Kolkata, therewith huge and the same is being installed for With the motto of ‘Clean India- • Construction of the Domestic prospects of the airport becoming the domestic area. Adding another Green India’ and to re-emphasise its Cargo Building has also been an aviation hub of this region. feather to its cap, Kolkata Airport commitment towards the energy- proposed in the existing became the fifth airport in India saving campaign, Kolkata Airport expansion plan of the airport, CONNECTIVITY to have CAT-III landing system, has incorporated solar-powered which will allow more space At present, Kolkata Airport is which is the second-most advanced electricity for the operation of its 2.4 and efficient movement of connected with more than 35 instrument landing system available lakh square metre terminal building. cargo from the airport destinations in India and around 13 and allows flights to operate till the Latest energy-efficient equipment • The current Kolkata Metro destinations, globally. With some visibility drops to 50 metres. It was such as green chillers, VFDs, BMS & expansion plans include two more flights in the offing, the airport commissioned on January 4, 2018. LED lighting were also adopted while new lines to the airport, one is emerging as a hub for Southeast designing NITB. from Noapara connecting at and Far East Asian countries. LOCAL ARTWORK Taking another step towards ‘Green Barasat and the other from Recently, daily direct flight has The landscape concept and under India’, the airport has developed a New Garia

DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 45 HOTEL FEATURE TravelScapes

AL AZIZIYAH BOUTIQUE HOTEL A FRESH COMPOSITION OF THE ANTIQUATED AND INNOVATIVE Located in Doha’s impressive Aspire Zone, the Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel is one of the very few of the city’s urban country estates. Lush greenery and polished gardens set the scene for the most relaxing stay in one of the posh feathers in the hat of Torch Hospitality. With the charm of an English country house and its unique Victorian style, the hotel welcomes its guests to explore its premises with a tinge of class and heritage mixed with seamless hospitality By Sayanti Halder

LIVING SPACES FOR ALL from one of the largest shopping The property offers 140 rooms malls in Doha, Villaggio Mall and through three categories, ranging just 25 minutes from the airport, from stylish guest rooms to Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel is luxurious, spacious suites all conveniently located in the heart traditionally designed and richly of Aspire Zone, overlooking the furnished, offering a cosy, warm football fields and the rest of the and comfortable feel. With its athletic venues. The hotel prides unique ambience and design, itself on high-quality services Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel and focuses on detail, with the welcomes its guests and visitors to addition of the lush greenery and experience its refreshed style, built its polished gardens, bringing a on its already known and trusted breath of fresh air in the middle success. Only a short walk away of Doha.

46 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 TravelScapes HOTEL FEATURE

REGAL RECREATION The hotel’s newly opened outdoor ‘Recreation Center’ features a 180 sq. m. outdoor leisure swimming pool, which takes centre stage with an adjusted swim-up kids’ pool with waterslides. Cobblestone pathways take the guests around the gardens’ area, ultimately leading to the Patio Café, a vibrant space nestled among blossoming pergolas. Indoor and outdoor children play zones are also available. Equipped with seesaws, swings, trampolines, football goals and hand boats and an air-conditioning playground, the area is a kids’ paradise. The ‘Recreation Center’, with its natural beauty and large space, is perfectly suitable for birthday parties, group gatherings, ceremonies and large-scale events. The property’s Fitness Center is open 24 hours for in-house guests and members and features Technogym equipment and various personal training sessions. Spa facilities in this hotel include six fully equipped treatment rooms, complemented by a set of Sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room, separated for male and female and a temperature-controlled indoor swimming pool. The Spa at the hotel is committed to creating a unique experience for each guest. Guests are welcome to enjoy a variety of massage therapies, beauty treatments and rich packages, all performed by experienced therapists.

BUSINESS WITH PLEASURE GASTRONOMICAL GALORE Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel Doha offers five elegant meeting rooms and Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel offers a wide range of dining options as well. Located on the two conference spaces designed to meet with the requirements of small- to first level, a favorite among guests, visitors and locals alike, ‘Blue’ is a grill restaurant medium-sized events, all of which feature complimentary WiFi, as well as and offers a casual dining experience serving a wide selection of premium steaks, fresh natural daylight and state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment including seafood and sushi specials while ‘Flavours’ restaurant is the hotel’s elegant all-day dining built-in LCD screens, sound systems and volume control panels. The restaurant offering international dishes that are prepared in a live kitchen. Finally, hotel’s proactive team will be always on hand to cater to all the needs and resembling an old English library and ideal for a delicious breakfast to start to the day, requirements of the guests. At 150 sq m, ‘Elite’ is the largest venue with a business lunch or an idyllic brunch, Victoria Tea Lounge offers TWG tea and organic an outdoor terrace and capacity for 120 delegates in a theatre-style setup coffee and is well-known for its traditional afternoon tea. The ‘Blue’ is an upscale dining while ‘Triumph’ offers a space of 90 sq. m. and beautiful views of Aspire restaurant offering an enchanting menu of refined steaks and the freshest seafood from Park. Both ‘Victory’ and ‘Success’ are 75 sq m., with a connecting option to around the world with vibrant interior design and a spacious outdoor terrace, with create a larger space. The Club is a more casual room of 65 sq m. spectacular views of Aspire Park’s greenery, set the tone for an extraordinary dining experience.

DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 47 UPDATE OUTBOUND TravelScapes Thailand extends Visa-on- Seychelles Tourism board Arrival fee waiver until April conducts a familiarisation trip 30, 2020 for Indian tour operators eychelles Tourism Board conducted a Travel Triangle, FCM Travel Solutions, he Tourism Authority of are all exempt from the 2,000 Sfamiliarisation (FAM) trip for Indian Ambition Travels and Orion Holidays TThailand (TAT) is delighted baht visa-on-arrival fee for single- tour operators to showcase the beauty of were a part of this educational trip and to report that the Royal Thai entry leisure travel in Thailand for its three main islands- Mahe, Praslin and the entire experience helped to enhance Government has once again not more than 15 days. La Digue. This week-long educational trip, their knowledge to better promote and approved an extension of the visa- The decision was announced gave the tour operators an opportunity to sell the destination. During their visit, on-arrival fee waiver for citizens of in the Royal Thai Government experience the paradise islands, partake these Indian travel agents received a 20 nations for another six months, Gazette on October 31, 2019. The in various activities and get inspired by warm Seychellois welcome from various from November 1, 2019 until April government first approved the the local culture and cuisine. three star, four star and five star hotel 30, 2020. Visa-on-Arrival fee waiver from While Seychelles is popular for partners. They also experienced services Thailand extends visa fee 15 November 2018 to January 14, honeymoon travel, the focus has been of the main destination management waiver scheme for tourists from 2019, then extended the measure slowly moving towards other segments companies along with Air Seychelles 20 nations. Citizens of Andorra, to April 30, 2019 and then such as family holidays, adventure travel who came on board as an airline partner. Bulgaria, Bhutan, China including extended it again to October 31, and celebrations. The FAM trip aimed The group also got a chance to interact Taiwan, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Fiji, 2019. to showcase various aspects that cater with Seychelles Tourism Board team India, Kazakhstan, Latvia, The move is meant to stimulate to the requirements of these segments. to learn about the changing trends and Lithuania, Maldives, Malta, and promote tourism arrivals Senior Management from Madura positioning of Seychelles in the India Mauritius, Papua New Guinea, while enhancing the Kingdom’s Travel Service, Flamingo Transworld, market. Romania, San Marino, Saudi ease-of-entry among foreign Arabia, Ukraine and Uzbekistan visitors. Finland emerges as a perfect winter holiday destination for Indian families ecember in India brings with it Travellers can visit a reindeer farm Da festive time and the perfect and experience a Christmas-special opportunity for a vacation. Indian sleigh ride while exploring this winter travellers are increasingly opting for wonderland. Santa lives at ‘Ear Fell’ places where they can experience (Korvatunturi) in Lapland but spends snowfall for the first time and Finland time and meets visitors at Santa Claus has emerged as a preferred destination Village. The ethereal decorations through among many as per a recent report. the renowned Santa Claus Village can be For travellers desiring a magical, ‘white’ memorable for visitors because Finnish Christmas, Finland is the perfect yuletide traditions are very different from destination, owing to the wintery fells many other countries and regions in the that encourage fun-filled adventures. world.

Brand USA and United Airlines sign global sponsorship agreement

rand USA, the destination United States through its scenic Together, we are determined to find CEO of Brand USA. Bmarketing organisation for the byways, ancient homelands, little creative solutions that impact global “At United Airlines we continue to United States and United Airlines known trails, and hidden gems that travel to the United States,” said grow our industry leading international announced a multi-year, global form the country’s natural tapestry. Christopher Thompson, President and network by adding more international sponsorship agreement to promote “Into America’s Wild” features the capacity than any other international travel across the United country’s greatest outdoor experiences U.S. carrier in 2019,” States. from kayaking Oregon's stunning said Mark Krolick, The agreement makes United coast, to traversing majestic canyons in United’s vice president Airlines an official Global Airline the Southwest, exploring the wilds of of Marketing. He further Sponsor of Brand USA and the Alaska, walking the Appalachian Trail added, “We look forward exclusive airline sponsor of Brand and more. to collaborating with USA’s next IMAX® film, “Into America’s “Our sponsorship with United Brand USA to showcase Wild”, which premieres in February Airlines grew out of our mutual passion the United States to 2020. The film takes international for sharing America’s treasures with travellers around the audiences on a journey across the the international travel community. world.”

48 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

UPDATE OUTBOUND TravelScapes JNTO signs Memorandum of Los Angeles Tourism becomes Cooperation with Emirates the first USA destination to

o further increase tourism demand September 2019. Prior to the signing Tfrom the Middle East to Japan, the of the MOC with Emirates, joint open an office in India Japan National Tourism Organization promotional seminars were also held (JNTO) signed a Memorandum of with leading travel agencies in the Cooperation (MOC) with Emirates on UAE on October 29 and 30, 2019. October 30, 2019 to jointly promote Continuing its ongoing marketing Japan as a destination of choice for efforts and commitment to the Middle travellers from the Middle East seeking East market, JNTO is also planning to authentic, unique and luxurious open a direct office in the UAE in 2020, experiences. through which promotional activities in The multi-faceted promotional the region will be further strengthened. campaign will target consumers Adnan Kazim, Chief Commercial throughout the Gulf Countries by Officer, Emirates Airline commented undertaking various joint online and on the MOC signing, saying, “We are s a sign of further commitment Angeles International Airport (LAX). media activities. pleased to partner with the Japan Ato the India market, Los Angeles Encouraged by growth indicators in In March 2019, JNTO and the National Tourism Association to Tourism & Convention Board today India – especially the market’s vastly Japan Tourism Agency highlighted the promote Japan to GCC travellers. The became the first USA destination growing outbound travel segment – Middle East as a new key market for agreement to jointly promote Japan to open a tourism office in India, Los Angeles Tourism’s latest visitation strategic development, within which underscores Emirates’ confidence in located in Mumbai. The newly forecast projects a year-over-year increased marketing activities will the potential and attractiveness of the opened office will focus on driving growth of 4.4 per cent in 2019 with take place based on the market’s high country as a world-class destination travel aspiration and motivate Indian 135,000 Indian visitors. Indian potential for luxury-based outbound that offers unique experiences, and we visitors to increase length of stay and visitation to Los Angeles is expected travel. Since then the Japan National are committed to promoting tourism spend in Los Angeles. Seema Kadam to grow by a year-over-year average of Tourism Organization (JNTO) from key target markets including the serves as Los Angeles Tourism’s first five per cent over the next five years has strengthened its promotional UAE, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Regional Director for India, which with nearly 165,000 Indian travelers presence within the region, which has Kuwait. We aim to play a major part in was previously announced this past estimated to visit by 2023. included participation at the Arabian growing the market through our strong summer. Commenting on plans for the India Travel Market 2019 in April, and connectivity to three Japanese points Los Angeles Tourism President market, Ernest Wooden Jr. said, “Los its appointment of a representative – Tokyo Narita, Tokyo Haneda and & CEO Ernest Wooden Jr. officially Angeles Tourism’s journey towards office in Dubai with AVIAREPS in Kansai International Airport in Osaka.” opened the new office alongside this milestone that we celebrate today international delegates while in the began nearly three years ago when presence of India’s tourism industry. we set off on a high-octane, strategic The office will work with the travel and long-term marketing programme. trade to develop customised and Targeted trade and consumer efforts tailored product itineraries in line with have helped establish a distinct and consumer and travel trade interests. relatable identity for Los Angeles As the 4th highest international amongst Indian travelers and this new growth market for Los Angeles, the office will strengthen our presence office will develop a cohesive strategy and interaction with the local travel with the travel trade to sustain community. We are optimistic that growth in 2020 and beyond. The the strong foundation we have laid in office will also develop and support the country will help us achieve our existing and any new air service to Los targets in the years ahead.”

BLS International is exclusive partner for Embassy of Libya for visa services in India

LS International, a pacesetter in visa, passport, application centre in Delhi. service will further enhance ease of travel to Libya.” Bconsular and citizen become exclusive visa service Commenting on the partnership, Shikhar Aggarwal, The company works with Diplomatic Missions, partner for Embassy of Libya in India, to regale Indian Joint Managing Director, BLS International said, “It is Embassies & Consulates and leverages technology travellers to Libya. an honour to work with the Embassy of Libya to ensure and processes that ensure data security. The company Embassy of Libya in India along with BLS a more convenient and faster service for travellers, now has an extensive network of centers in India and International went live from November 4, 2019 while maintaining the security and integrity of the globally for providing consular services, biometrics where BLS International will impart help for Visa and visa process. With our experience and reliability in and numerous citizen services. BLS International Attestation of documents in India. Travellers from providing seamless visa application services across the emphasises passion, flexibility and innovation to add India will be able to apply for Libya visas from the visa world and with the technological advancement, the value to clients.

50 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K SPECIALGUEST COLUMNFEATURE TravelScapes

Here’s why you should head to

Istanbulfor Meetings & More... Positioned on the edge of Europe, Turkey’s cultural capital Istanbul is a buzzing transcontinental beauty with humongous spots for business meetings and conferences and an even better place to wind down the routined hassles and soak in the bustling vibes of the city. We spent six days of this thrilling expedition in Turkey, which weren’t enough to fill our appetite to explore more of both the cultural and business facets that Istanbul has to offer. The more we unfolded the layers of its history, culture and locals, the more we fell in love with Istanbul, since everything in the city had a stimulating story to tell By Gagneet Kaur

ver the years, Turkey has altered itself into a today become a preferred choice for MICE and leisure and venue’s strategic location become the topmost hub for business and leisure. Through the mix segments of travellers. competitive advantage for the organisers to choose ICEC Oof historical and contemporary, the undisturbed for the events. Though largely untapped by the India and the buzzing, Turkey offers a pleasant surprise to Istanbul topping the charts as a leading MICE hub market currently, ICEC looks forward to strengthening the senses. And if defined precisely, there is no other MICE travel in Turkey is increasing at an incredibly engagement with the potential MICE segment from place in the world that fuses East and West with such fast pace, with the country being ranked among the India, as suggested by Handan Boyce, General Manager, ease. With a mix of popular and some of the uncharted world's top 10 meeting and congress destinations, it ICEC. gems that have been attracting tourists from all over the was revealed. According to the International Congress What else gives Istanbul its edge as a perfect world, Turkey, with its world-class hotels and remarkable and Convention Association (ICCA), the country MICE destination is its impressive and ever-evolving infrastructure, is becoming the most frequented ranks 18th globally as a growing destination for MICE infrastructure including the hotels that are revamped, destination by the Indian travellers. According to the tourism. And the city of Istanbul ranks eighth on the established to cater to the modern business travellers’ recent report, Turkey this year, witnessed a substantial global leaderboard since it is a bridge between East and needs. Their prime locations, continually expanding surge in the number of extravagant Indian destination West, both in terms of trade and culture. Over the years, facilities and high-quality services, as well as several weddings across Turkey and similarly, the number for Istanbul has seen billions of dollars invested in core conference and convention venues available within MICE travel to Turkey went a notch up at a faster pace. infrastructure projects to boost its tourism sector and the hotel premises, have helped the city evolve into a As revealed by the Turkish Tourism Board in India in enhance its position as a viable business destination. business hub, paving the way for its distinction as the September, Turkey, between the months of January to Not just Istanbul Congress Centre (ICC) is considered premier international business destination it is today. July, has registered a 56 per cent increase in the number to be one of the leading platforms that serve as a solid Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus; an established hotel in the of Indian tourist arrivals in comparison to the same foundation for the industry but another strengthening Congress valley, features a Convention and Exhibition period last year, hosting overall 130,000 Indian visitors. pillar, ICEC (Istanbul Lutfi Kirdar International center with capacity for up to 3000 guests. Also for To make the media more acquainted with its Convention and Exhibition Center) has been there for special occasions like cocktails and social gala events, top-drawer attractions in the country, The Turkish years offering excellence to the meetings and conferences the grand ballroom or the artistically illuminated Tourism Board in India in association with their India in the city. Ideal for not just the international congresses Sadirvan Saloon, the poolside and the garden areas representative Linkin Reps hosted a familiarisation and meetings, fairs and exhibitions but also for cocktails, are ideal. 27 meeting rooms with an all-day accessible trip to the fantastic cities of Istanbul and Antalya have gala dinners and cultural events, ICEC with huge spaces business center, make for a full package fantastic deal

52 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 SPECIAL FEATURE

Hagia Sofia Museum Istanbul Lutfi Kirdar International Convention and Exhibition Center

Grand Bazaar Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus for the MICE requirements. The USP of the hotel is its district, an architectural masterpiece that once served as souvenirs, essential oils, you get it all here. Unlike the location where its just steps away from Taksim Square, a Byzantine church and then an Ottoman mosque and huge covered bazaars, shopping fanatics can head to the cafes and in close proximity to the Grand Bazaar. the 17th-century Sultan Ahmet Mosque, also known as main cosmo and entertainment street of Taksim which Another award-winning property, Conrad Istanbul is Blue Mosque for its illustrious interior dotted with tile is one of the city’s main shopping streets. Serious food a prime location catering to both meetings and leisure decorations, grey cascading domes and six minarets. shopping is a must here as you get plenty of options to segments. The recently awarded the title of 'Turkey's A great sightseeing joy of a trip to Istanbul is taking a try some of the traditional culinary goodies. If you get Leading Conference Hotel' by the World Travel Awards, leisure walk amid the gardens packed in between the tired of walking, you may choose to take the historic red Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus is the perfect example of Blue Mosque and the Aya Sofya or have a hearty lunch tramway that runs up and down the street. contemporary elegance in the city. The USP of the hotel at Hagia Sofia Mansions. While after easily spending hours and days in the includes modish surroundings, marvelous interiors and Next comes Büyükada, Istanbul’s largest and most buzzing bazaars and streets of the city, later in the day, facilities, over 26 function/ meeting rooms including two popular of the Princes’ Islands, which is another star one can climb up the medieval marvel Galata Tower. The ballrooms, four boardrooms and several meeting rooms. attraction and a perfect opportunity to get away from views of the sun setting over the bright city, the amplified In addition, what makes the property one of its kind is the the city’s hustle-bustle. One has to take a ferry to music of duelling muezzins cutting through the distant Presidential Suite. Popularly called by staff as ‘Obama this no-cars-allowed island which approximately is a hum of traffic and a panoramic shot of the city is what Suite’, this space boasts luxury and elegance of another 40-minute journey from the city. On the way to Princes a Galata Tower experience can offer at once. Don’t miss level. Be it a dinner of eight people or an after-party Islands, tourists on the top deck of the ferry capture the out on having a snacking break at one of the popular event of 60, this suite not just offers the superb view of dramatic skyline and some of the magical views towards eateries near Galata, Güney Restaurant which serves the Bosphorus waterway and city panorama but also Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace and the mesmerising some of the amazing European and Turkish cuisines. features a kitchenette, fitness room, living room, study minarets of the Blue Mosque. Once you defy the bustling Well, that is aptly true that the city of Istanbul is area and a Turkish-style bathroom, a whirlpool tub and vibes of the city and reach the island, you will be amazed busy, fast, never stops, but when one needs a break airy spaces for serious meetings and casual relaxation. to go back in time and see this quaint, serene world from the fervid travelling schedule, a traditional Turkish The city’s exciting atmosphere along with its vibrancy, dotted with impressive wooden country mansions, bath (locally and popularly known as Hammam) top-notch infrastructure and enviable geographical boutique hotels, lanes with vendors selling the souvenirs comes to the rescue. Played a pivotal role since the position, stem from its unique union between traditional and local Turkish favourites and some awesome sea Roman times, hammams are a quintessential Turkish magnificence and contemporary vibes; a combination view restaurants. The small-hamlet and composed must-try experience and an ancient amenity that has that makes Istanbul an ideal place to meet for business vibes of this particular island where either bicycle or outlived centuries of modernised social norms. Apart and is extraordinarily well suited for business and horse-drawn carriage are the modes of transport, has from the steaming, rejuvenating massages and bathing, beyond. made this space one of Istanbulites’ favourite summer what amazes you more is the visuals- the colossal destinations and an exciting attraction for the tourists marble slabs, towering columns with artistic details Once unwinding, take a culture shot and a leisure who are travelling for leisure or the business travellers and the tradition that outlasts every modern norm stroll down the city who for a change would want to do a sea side meeting. today. Visitors including both enthusiastic travellers Napoleon once stated, “If the world was only one Before waving goodbye to the island, do not forget to and nostalgic locals keen to experience the cleansing country, Istanbul would be its capital.” In so many ways, have Lokma after taking a lunch break at one of the rituals are seen thronging the bathhouses. Our personal travellers throughout the ages have agreed with this restaurants lining the lanes. Lokma is a traditional fried- recommendation? Head to Çemberlitaş Hamami, which sentiment. Always been a rich mosaic of people, history, dough pastry, which is served with delicious cinnamon is probably one of the oldest bathhouses in the city. religions and cultures, Istanbul indeed is a fascinating syrup and some sprinkled cinnamon powder on the top. As vast as the magnitude of Turkey and its various city where historical sites dot every corner and center, Besides hopping on and off ferries, visitors haggle their tourism offerings is, the city of Antalya deserves an picture-worthy mosques pierce the amazing city skyline, hearts out in the colorful Grand Bazaar. This massive all the more exclusivity, and therefore, we decided chic cafes line the buzzing streets and the colorful covered market is a maze of laneways lined by shops and to portray the aspects of this beautiful city and its bazaars make you go gaga at every stop. stalls selling every Turkish souvenir and handicraft you firm focus on the global MICE markets through our Some examples of this magnificence also include could imagine, from Turkish lamps to local delicacies next detailed piece which would be rolling out in the the Hagia Sofia (Aya Sofya) Museum in Sultan Ahmet including Baklawas, the traditional ceramic bowls to forthcoming issue.

DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 53 UPDATE AVIATION TravelScapes

Qatar Airways and Indigo sign Virgin Atlantic re-launches daily codeshare agreement direct flights from Mumbai to

n-line with its international Indigo Chief Executive Office, London Iexpansion plans, IndiGo, in Ronojoy Dutta said, “This is a November, signed a one-way momentous occasion for us, as irgin Atlantic relaunched significant period of growth for Virgin codeshare agreement with Qatar we sign this codeshare agreement Vits daily direct operations Atlantic and I’m delighted that we’re Airways. As the sale started from with one of the finest airlines in the between Mumbai (BOM) to London expanding our route network by November 7, the one-way codeshare world. This strategic alliance will not Heathrow (LHR) on October 28, returning to Mumbai. Along with our agreement between the two carriers only strengthen our international 2019, complementing its long- long-standing route to Delhi, we are aimed at enabling Qatar Airways operations, but also boost economic established route between London now able to provide travellers with to place its code on IndiGo flights growth in India, by bringing in more and Delhi. The Mumbai flights an increased offering to the thriving between Doha and Delhi, Mumbai traffic and heralding opportunities operate on Virgin Atlantic’s Boeing Indian market and an opportunity to and Hyderabad. This is the second for trade and tourism through 787-9 aircraft offering customers the experience our award winning service codeshare agreement for IndiGo seamless mobility. We are confident fantastic Upper Class and Premium between the UK and India. Together as part of its growth strategy for of a successful partnership, as cabins along with three ways to with our partners at Delta, we offer international markets. Qatar we extend our signature on-time, fly Economy – Light, Classic and an excellent choice of connections to Airways will place its code “QR” on courteous and hassle-free service Delight. the USA via Heathrow Airport.” IndiGo operated flights between the experience to the passengers of The daily service will depart and Dave Hodges, Commercial mentioned destinations. Qatar Airways. These are exciting arrive in the morning at London Manager – India, at Virgin Atlantic This agreement will enable the times for the aviation industry and Heathrow, offering seamless commented, “We are really excited airline to place its code on Indigo it is our commitment to remain connections between India and the to now have a daily flight serving flights between Doha and Delhi, focused in building one of the best US. The new Mumbai flights marks Mumbai-London. Amidst the festive Mumbai and Hyderabad and is air transportation systems in the Virgin Atlantic’s 27th daily service season in India, it is a special time to the first step in strengthening world.” from London Heathrow and its third start the flight and we are confident cooperation between the ‘World’s Qatar Airways currently operates new route announcement this year. that Mumbai is going to love the best Best Airline’ and the ‘Best Low-Cost 102 weekly flights between Doha and Juha Jarvinen, Executive Vice of Bollywood entertainment and the Airline in India’. 13 destinations in India, including President – Commercial, at Virgin best Indian food onboard our state of Qatar Airways Group Chief Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bengaluru, Atlantic, commented, “2019 marks a the art 787-9 Dreamliner.” Executive, His Excellency Akbar Al Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Baker said, “We are extremely proud Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Mumbai, to secure this strategic partnership Nagpur and Thiruvananthapuram. with Indigo, the largest airline in One of the fastest growing low- one of the world’s fastest growing cost carriers globally, IndiGo, has aviation markets. We believe this redefined air travel in India over agreement will be just the first step the last 13 years with its affordable, in strengthening our relationship on-time, courteous and hassle-free and we very much look forward flying experience. Having flown more to working together to harness than 300 million happy customers, our complementary strengths and the airline currently operates close resources, to enhance the travel to 1500 daily flights to 60 domestic experience for our passengers and 23 international destinations, around the world.” with a fleet of 247 aircraft.

Domestic passenger traffic slips to 1.6 pc in September: IATA

eak economic activity, along with and the US. Wsubdued private consumption In the period under consideration, eased India's year-on-year domestic air India's domestic passenger traffic passenger traffic growth rate to 1.6 per growth was preceded by that of Japan cent in September from 4.5 per cent at 10.1 per cent, China at 8.9 per cent, observed in August. the US at 6 per cent, Russia at 3.2 per According to the International cent, Australia at 1.8 per cent and Brazil Air Transport Association (IATA), at 1.7 per cent. India's domestic air passenger volume The country's domestic available - measured in revenue passenger passenger capacity - measured in kilometres (RPKs) - was the lowest available seat kilometres (ASKs) among the major aviation markets such - contracted by (-) 0.4 per cent in as Australia, Brazil, China, Japan, Russia September.

54 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019 TravelScapes UPDATE AVIATION

JetPrivilege is now InterMiles UDAN 4.0 to offer priority routes et Privilege Private Limited centric programme to emerging J(JPPL), the independent as an everyday travel-and- connecting Bilaspur and Ambikapur loyalty and rewards management lifestyle rewards programme company, part of the Etihad as discerning consumers have airports in Chhattisgarh Aviation Group, has unveiled its shifted beyond transactional new brand identity ‘InterMiles’, rewards and cashback. In fact, ardeep S Puri, Minister of state (I/C) and prescriptive routes involving Bilaspur propelling its intent to fulfil over the last six months alone, the Hfor Civil Aviation, in a review meeting have already been included in the ensuing the evolving travel & lifestyle programme has managed over of UDAN discussed demands received for round of bidding under UDAN. There has aspirations of discerning 33 billion InterMiles. Speaking connectivity of Bilaspur and Ambikapur been immense interest expressed from consumers. InterMiles will about the development, Manish in Chhattisgarh and said that the Ministry the airline operators to connect the city encompass both the award- Dureja, Managing Director, Jet is committed to connect these airports and extend benefit of air transport to the winning loyalty and rewards Privilege Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are at the earliest. UDAN 4.0 would focus people of the region. programme (previously, embarking on a new journey on routes connecting these airports, he Bilaspur is significant on the country’s JetPrivilege) and the ubiquitous with InterMiles, built on sound added. UDAN scheme focuses on states map both culturally and commercially. rewards and recognition business fundamentals, the trust having unconnected regions. Chhattisgarh The region is also recognised for its currency (previously, JPMiles). of millions of members and the is one of the focus states for Ministry of distinct characteristics; be it the unique The programme will offer its passion of a committed team. Civil Aviation. The Ministry will soon rice quality, Doobraj or the contribution growing base of close to 10 million What started as a frequent flyer be starting bidding for UDAN 4.0 under of the Kosa silk industry to the handloom members the opportunity to earn programme has now become the which prescribed priority routes in sector. Connecting Bilaspur is expected to and redeem InterMiles, the new platform of choice that empowers Chhattisgarh would be offered for bidding. meet desired aspirations of the people of age currency of engagement, our members to fulfill their travel Bilaspur is identified as a priority airport the region. across travel, hospitality and and lifestyle aspirations. As we lifestyle services across 10+ reinforce our commitment to the categories and 150+ programme promise of making our members’ partners. journey more fulfilling, our growth LOT Polish Airlines strengthens The company has been on plan is, focused on aggregating an exciting transformational more benefits and simplifying journey over the last five years access to a growing bouquet of Budapest as its second hub to expand from an airline- experiences and rewards.” n 2020, LOT Polish Airlines, member 7, 2020. Both will be operated with Iairline of Star Alliance, would modern Embraer 195 aircraft. continue to develop Budapest as its Michal Fijol, Chief Commercial second hub in addition to its home Officer of LOT Polish Airlines, “We are base Warsaw. In summer 2020, the consequently establishing Budapest as airline will add Dubrovnik in Croatia our second big hub. In summer 2020 and Varna on the Bulgarian coast of we will offer flights from Budapest to 13 the Black Sea to its flight schedule different destinations such as Warsaw, from Budapest. In addition, LOT Polish London, Brussels, Prague and Stuttgart Airlines will increase its weekly services as well as to New York (JFK) and to from the Hungarian capital to Seoul in Seoul. Also, we have recently opened South Korea from currently three to the first Star Alliance Gold business four flights, per week. The new flights lounge at Budapest Airport so that our to Dubrovnik and Varna are offered on guests can relax or work before taking Sundays and will be launched the June off.”

Hyderabad airport holds 15-day long cleanliness drive In line with the objectives and all other stakeholders of Iof Prime Minister's flagship the airport including airlines campaign of Swachh Bharat officials, CISF, customs officials, Abhiyan, GMR-led Hyderabad Concessionaires, ground handlers International Airport celebrated and the entire airport community 'Swachh Bharat Pakhwada,' a participated. As part of the 15- 15-day cleanliness and sanitation day campaign, the airport has drive from November 15 to 30. As started an awareness campaign part of this initiative, the airport across the terminal and on on November 21 organised its social media platforms to a 'Swachhta March' on the creatively engage and promote airport premises, followed by a the importance of cleanliness clean-up drive of the environs and sanitation among the public in which the management, staff at large.

DECEMBER 2019 travelscapesonline.com 55 UPDATE HOSPITALITY TravelScapes

Karma Group announces Karma Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Sitabani in Jim Corbett National Park Resort & Spa is eyeing more Indian arma Group has announced the resort has a total of 42 suites MICE in 2020 Kthe opening of Karma in various configurations. “I am Sitabani, in the Jim Corbett tremendously excited about this By Team TS National Park, part of the Corbett very special property,” said John he Maldives is a popular choice Tiger Reserve in the picturesque Spence, Founder and Chairman Tamongst honeymooners but the heartland of Uttarakhand in of Karma Group. “Karma Sitabani island has received increased interest Northern India. Karma Sitabani gives our intrepid members and from the corporate travellers as well offers guests a truly unique guests access to India’s oldest and in recent times. “The Indian MICE opportunity to experience a side most prestigious National Park, segment is crucial for us. Although it's of India they may have never seen. regarded as the heartland for at the nascent stage, we welcomed a Karma Sitabani is named after protecting tigers in India, and the couple of MICE groups this year and the local Sitabani Temple, as a opportunity to catch a glimpse of last year. For the first time, there is a sign of respect for local culture these majestic creatures that are meaningful focus on growing the MICE and beliefs. Spread over 3.4 acres, sadly now so endangered.” opportunities as a base business. We are looking to build a base business in MICE from May to September. We are equipped with the MICE offerings and are looking forward to working very closely with our partners in India for it,” says Jennifer Lim, Director of Sales and Marketing, Sheraton Maldives and Southern Indian cuisine and it's Full Moon Resort & Spa during her operated by a culinary team of Indian recent visit to New Delhi to strengthen chefs and service staff among the the relationship with the travel trade local staff. It's been very successful fraternity. Honeymooner is another and several Indian guests have given segment of travellers that they are us feedback that this restaurant was actively looking at. They mostly travel one of the highlights. Our other USP Sarovar Hotels and Resorts during the cooler months. Gloria is that we offer a wide variety of informs that they would be building activities on the island. Besides that, expands footprint in Bengaluru more experiential-based packages there are several water sports and to cater to this unique demographic excursions at one to two-hour distance arovar Hotels and Resorts lounge, just the perfect setting for of travellers in 2020.” India is the from the resort. We have one of the Sexpands its footprint with relaxation or business networking. number one market for them. She large islands that is approximately the launch of Shravanthi Sarovar Shravanthi Sarovar Portico has exclaims that there have been 60 to 800 m and 400 m wide which gives Portico in South Bangalore. This is different decorative themes on 70 per cent occupancy level in 2019 us the space to do more and allows Sarovar’s sixth hotel after Davanam each of the four floors. From and they are expecting a 15 per cent privacy even with 176 keys.” Sarovar Portico Suites, La Marvella Scandinavian to Spanish county growth in Indian arrivals in 2020. Asked about enhancing the Sarovar Premiere, Radha Hometel, to Manhattan to the Royal, the Lim elaborates on the expectations engagement with the travel trade Radisson Blu and RBD Sarovar hotel’s theme floors and rooms will from the India market, “I am looking fraternity, she replies, “We have Portico. Shravanthi Sarovar Portico leave the traveler with a signature forward to meet our clients in India, already been very active in terms is a midscale hotel located in JP experience akin to none. Ajay understand their challenges such as of FAM trips on the property level. Nagar, one of Bangalore’s oldest Bakaya, Managing Director, Sarovar accommodating space for families We are very open to our partners to planned suburbs. The hotel offers Hotels & Resorts said, “We are with two or more children in guest bringing in their preferred agencies easy access to the Central Business happy to associate with Shravanthi rooms and also gain better insight and partners for a hosted stay to District and electronic city and is in Group for our new property in on trends and opportunities for next experience our resort. We have a close proximity to major tech parks South Bangalore. We found great year. The hospitality market in the market activation plan in place and entertainment hubs. It offers synergies with the group and are Maldives is becoming increasingly largely covering the key cities, Delhi, 80 newly renovated guest rooms, excited about our association. competitive. It's always good to have Bengaluru and Mumbai. We would an all-day dining restaurant, club With an apt location and serene feedback from your partners directly also be focusing on increasing the bar, fitness center and conferencing atmosphere, our new property will that also helps in gauging competition MICE business and cooperating with facilities. The redecorated lobby is be a home away from home for both and with a little luck and good intent GSA for the same. Sandeep Raghav, spacious and comprises of a coffee business and leisure travelers.” you hopefully stay a little ahead of Business Development Director – the curve. Although the India market South Asia, W Maldives and Sheraton has been very supportive of our resort Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa will and Maldives which we are hoping to continue to ensure that the message maintain that for the next year.” is delivered to our key partners. He Talking about the distinguishing keeps us abreast about all the new factor of the property, Lim exclaims, developments in this market. Our “The uniqueness that we provide General Manager would be visiting to our guests is the Indian food, India towards the end of next year to Masala Hut specialises in Northern further engage with the travel trade.”

56 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

ON THE MOVE TravelScapes

HARSHIT VYAS HARSHAD DESHMUKH KERRIE HANNAFORD PROMOTED AT: OYO Hotels & Homes PROMOTED AT: Lords Plaza, Lonavala PROMOTED AT: Accor India & South Asia TO: Chief Business Officer TO: General Manager TO: Vice President Commercial Accor has appointed Kerrie Hannaford as Vice OYO Hotels & Homes appoints Harshit Vyas Lords Hotels and Resorts has appointed President Commercial for Accor India and South as its Chief Business Officer (CBO). Vyas is Harshad Deshmukh as General Manager of Asia. Being well versed with Accor’s processes an early OYOpreneur who has been working Lords Plaza, Lonavala. A seasoned hospitality and systems in Sales, Marketing and Distribution, closely with founder Ritesh Agarwal since OYO’s professional, Deshmukh’s last assignment before Hannaford will be able to integrate and inception. In 2013, he joined the company as joining Lords was with Holiday Inn Express, capitalise on the current team strengths and add one of its first five core employees focusing on Ahmedabad as General Manager. He will be tremendous value to Accor. An industry Sales and business development for OYO's first city launch overseeing all operational and commercial Marketing veteran, she has been part of the Accor in Gurgaon. During his tenure here, he has led aspects of the hotel and will also be responsible family since past 15 years. OYO’s first foray in the international market. to drive the hotel’s performance in the market.

KANIKA BIJLANI RAVI KHUBCHANDANI SUDHANSHU ANAND PROMOTED AT: Travel Boutique Online (TBO) PROMOTED AT: Novotel Bali Ngurah PROMOTED AT: Key leisure Hotels TO: Senior Manager – Marketing/PR and Events Rai Airport TO: Associate Head of Sales TO: General Manager TBO appoints Kanika Bijlani as Senior Manager Sarovar Hotels and Resorts appoints Sudhanshu Novotel Bali Ngurah Rai Airport appoints Ravi – Marketing/PR and Events. Bijlani comes with Anand as Associate Head of Sales for its Key Khuchandani as its General Manager. He was an experience of nine years, having worked leisure Hotels. Anand comes with an experience the General Manager of Novotel Hyderabad with Kfactor Communications and Le Passage of over 13 years. He has worked with jüSTa Hotels Airport. He spent eight years working in to India Tours and Travels. She will be looking and Resorts as Associate Director Sales and New Zealand, specialising in pre-openings, after Corporate Communication including Marketing for leisure and MICE sales for over a renovations and business turnarounds before Advertising, Marketing, PR and will be acting as decade. Anand will be responsible for Sarovar’s moving to Pune to head ibis. Khuchandani has a key interface between the company and the key leisure hotels, bringing more business for also worked at ibis in Gurugram. respective platforms. these hotels.

MOHAMMAD ALI SHAHROM OSHTORI AMIT BAXI PROMOTED AT: Accor PROMOTED AT: The Park Mumbai PROMOTED AT: Double Tree by Hilton Pune TO: Area Director of Global Sales – West India TO: General Manager Chinchwad TO: Director of Business Development Accor appoints Mohammad Ali as Area Director The Park Mumbai appoints Shahrom Oshtori as of Global Sales – West India. In his new role, Double Tree by Hilton Pune Chinchwad has General Manager. Oshtori’s interest in hospitality, Ali will be based at the Global Sales Office in appointed Amit Baxi as Director of Business which later grew into his passion, started at an early Mumbai and provide leadership and strategic Development. Baxi was earlier Associate Director of age, from Lead Associate to F&B Team Leader at the direction to the Global Sales team to work Sales at DoubleTree by Hilton Pune – Chinchwad. JW Marriott, he subsequently moved into various towards maximising revenue for Accor from West He will be reporting to General Manager on business positions. In this role, he will provide leadership and India region. He began his journey at Accor as development, planning, budgeting and brand strategic planning to all departments in support of Director of Sales – MICE and has worked with building. He has an experience of 11 years in Sales the service culture, maximised operations and guest various renowned hospitality brands. and Marketing. satisfaction under his leadership.

58 travelscapesonline.com DECEMBER 2019

RNI No. - DELENG/2013/48401 • Licence No. : F.2(T-3) 2013 • Posting Dt. 9-10/12/2019 Place of Posting: NIEHOND 110028 • Reg. No. - DL(W)10/2208/2019-2021 • Date of publication 3-4/12/2019