Vol. XXXIssue1; 1 January ddppl.com st fortnight i fortnight ssue 2018 A DDPPUBLICATION NAGPUR

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North India revels with Maya he 4th North India Travel Awards was held at The Lalit New Delhi amidst the stalwarts of the tourism industry. Chief Guest Vijay Goel, Minister of TState for Statistics & Programme Implementation and Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India and Guest of Honour Shivdular Singh Dhillon, IAS, Special Secretary-cum-Director, Department of Tourism, Cultural Affairs, Archaeology, Museums & Archives, Punjab and CEO, Punjab Heritage & Tourism Promotion Board, presided over the ceremony. Krishan Kumar Amla, Chairman & MD, Broadway Enterprises was conferred the Gallery of Legends trophy while Hanneli Slabber, Regional GM, Asia, Australasia and Middle East, South African Tourism, was DDP Game Changer. Sujit Banerjee, Secretary General, WTTC, India Initiative, received the Legend in Public Service award and Pankaj Srivastava, Commercial Director & Board Member, Air India, bagged the DDP Trailblazer award. Amit Sankhala, MD, Encounters Asia, was awarded the DDP Face of the Future title.

(L-R) SanJeet, Sham Nijhawan, Runeep Sangha, Shivdular Singh Dhillon, Vijay Goel, Dr. Marisha Kaul, Sujit Banerjee, Sarab Jit Singh Restructuring overseas presence? The shutting down of seven foreign tourist offices by the Government of India has sent the travel trade in a tizzy. TRAVTALK asks industry experts about the impact of this decision on the tourism business within and outside the country.

lagued with the vacancy of several posts and lack of Psenior officers, the Ministry of Tourism has decided to close down some of its foreign offices. The Ministry will now open a new office at Moscow, with the Russian Federation as the fourth largest source market for India in terms of foreign tourist arrivals. TRAVTALK brought together Rajiv Mehra, Vice President, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO); Vikram Madhok, Hon. Treasurer, PATA, Homa Mistry, CEO, Trail Blazer Tours (India), Bharat Bhushan Atree, Managing Director, Caper Travel Company and Sandeep Jain, Hon. Joint Secretary, IATO, to discuss the benefits and pitfalls of this sudden Rajiv Mehra Vikram Madhok Homa Mistry Bharat Bhushan Atree Sandeep Jain move by the Ministry. For details on the second edition of the Think TRAVTALK series, see page 14 HARVEY’s Pre- X’MAS BRUNCH – 2017! Harvey World Destinations' CEO Joe Rajan alongwith Executive Director Harsh Jain, and Managing Partner Aarti Manocha, hosted the much-awaited annual Pre-Christmas Brunch at Verbena. Spotted at the elegant venue were prominent dignitaries from the world of Bollywood film Industry, Hospitality industry and Politics. It was an eventful brunch with the teams of Harvey and partner event company MtoM, ensuring that the guests had a memorable time and enjoyed the delectable delicacies of Christmas. Advertisement PATATALK PATA India Chapter elections PATA India Chapter held its 47th Annual General Meeting on December 19, 2017, at The Claridges, New Delhi. The event was presided over by Rashmi Verma, Chairperson, PATA India Chapter & Secretary - Tourism.

TT BUREAU

ashmi Verma, Secre- Rtary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, will lead PATA India Chapter as its Chairperson for the term 2017-19. Verma appreciated the role PATA plays and rec- ognised its business develop- ment initiatives. She felt that in the years ahead, PATA should work more closely Runeep Sangha will con- trade shows and industry tourism bodies and under- with the Ministry to promote tinue as Executive Director, updates. “We still have to stand what the states have to tourism and bring greater PATA India Chapter. finalise our plans. We were offer,” Madhok said. value to its members. speaking about taking the “We concluded, quite Executive Committee meet- Talking about new PATA also announced successfully, our 47th Annual ing to another state, because initiatives taken up by the its Executive Committee and General Meeting. I am very we haven't had it in a while. association, Taneja said, Office Bearers for the term pleased to say that we elect- Since PATA India Chapter is “For the regional chapter 2017-19. SanJeet, Direc- ed an Executive Committee North specific, as most mem- meetings, we will be inviting tor, DDP Publications, has without the need to go into bers are based in Delhi, it PATA Chapters from neigh- been re-elected as the as- contest amongst members,” would be nice to engage with bouring countries like Nepal, sociation’s Vice Chairman Sangha said. other parts of the country. So Bhutan and Bangladesh, along with J.S. Taneja, MD, there was an active debate etc. We will be conducting a Travel Spirit International, as Madhok pointed out on whether to go to the North minimum of two roadshows Hon. Secretary, and Vikram that PATA India Chapter has East, or South India to Ker- in 2018 and the Government Madhok, MD, Abercrombie 14-15 agenda for the year ala, Tamil Nadu or Goa. The of India has been very & Kent, as Hon. Treasurer. which comprises seminars, objective is to engage the supportive of that.” GUEST COLUMN Adrenaline rush for MICE The MICE market in India is marching ahead to catch up with the world by VIEWPOINT opening up the sector to new activities. More corporate groups are opting for high-power, adrenaline-pumping activities over boardroom boredom.

Should old friends lease watch the instruc- early will know the perennial attended by over 1,200 pax risks associated with such ‘Ption video very care- challenge lies in offering the where we took over the entire activities and hence, avoid fully as the choices you have attendees the destination Aamby Valley Resort for our extreme adventures or en- be forgotten? made today are of high risk and activities they have not event and converted it into a courage them only at an in- in nature and you consent done before. This evolution complete experiential zone. dividual level. very business is built on relationships. that you have chosen them has encouraged MICE plan- without any prejudice,’ says ners to reinvent the wheel Risky business Adrenaline MICE is EThis is true across industries despite the the voice in the safety video. and explore newer experi- Apart from existing in- still in its nascent stage but element of virtual interface invading the space. The incentive group listens ences like never before. frastructure at Aamby, we the demand for the same is Human to human interaction can never go out carefully before venturing into added a few experiences bound to go up as the thrill of style, which forms the basis of a strong and its first ‘Edge of Space’ high- Moreover, with the ad- including an entire site for seeking millennials start dic- adrenalin MIG-29 flight at vent of tech companies bungee-jumping. We in- tating the boardrooms as flourishing business association. And so, the SOKOL air space in SOKOL there has been an explosive stalled heavy machinery well as fill up cubicles. Tradi- turn of yet another year is as good as any airfield near the Russian city growth of millennials at all and commercial cranes to tional MICE is passé for the other time to look back and acknowledge the of Nizhny Novgorod. levels who, as we all know, execute this which involved newbie traveller; adrenaline people who have helped us reach the place are well-informed. The glo- lengthy checks and balanc- and experiential MICE is the MICE activities of balisation of business has es for safety. The adrenaline new credo. we are in and the person we have become the yesteryears have now also ensured that a location quotient of young media em- today. Perhaps Robert Burns was similarly evolved into a different beast which was a huge incentive ployees is usually very high retrospecting when he wrote Auld Lang Syne altogether. They are no long- earlier by itself is not enough. and undoubtedly, we had (The views expressed in the 18th century. The travel and hospitality er limited to coach guided This is the era of travel be- long queues of adventure are solely of the author. tours or attractions; it has be- ing Facebook brag-worthy junkies that took the leap The publication may or may industries have jointly witnessed a volatile come ever more adventurous which is also the new unwrit- of faith. In another event, not subscribe to the same.) 2017 with challenges appearing in many and exciting. I am reminded ten brief for MICE planners. a whole group of travellers shapes and forms. The only way we can of the famous advertisements Globally, experience provid- tookover the sky to experi- overcome the pains of a discouraging year with the theme ‘Dil Maange ers have realised this ever- ence skydiving from 14,000 More’ and the newer ‘Aur growing demand and have feet in Miami. is by doing it together. People and close-knit Dikhao, Aur Dikhao’. Adren- created experiences like communities can help us carry our load. It aline is the answer to the never before including the A few clients had the may not lessen the losses but it can definitely ever-challenging question of likes of ice driving like James thrill of riding a battle tank lighten the burden. ‘What new can we do to en- Bond on perfect slabs of ice, and crushing a car with it. gage our stakeholders’ for the shark-cage diving, bungee- To complete the experience, MICE planners? jumping, tower walks, cir- they even had the tank drive cuit car racing, Ducati bike over them as they were made Been there, not tours and even working with to lie down in the centre. 2018 for domestic done that stunts team. While most of these activi- The MICE movement in ties are usually finding their t is always assumed that the Tourism India has erupted in the last I am reminded of an way into corporate itinerar- Birju Gariba decade and a half and for event we had curated for a ies, the multinationals are at CEO and Executive Director, Platinum World Group IMinistry’s focus has always been inbound. those who boarded this train media conglomerate that was the same time aware of the However, this time around, MOT is vocally supporting domestic tourism and realising its true might. By understanding the spending power of an Indian tourist, MOT has put forth many initiatives including HRIDAY and Prioritising winter destinations PRASAD schemes, which they have now What does a traveller want? This question sure haunts many a travel agent. TRAVTALK brings merged. There has been an increased focus on adventure tourism as well, and the Ministry, you snippets from a recent survey to identify the needs of the great Indian traveller. in association with ATTOI has declared 2018 Destination as the ‘Year of Adventure Tourism’. Spend Out of 1592 respondents who took part in the 31% Top Destinations of the respondents winter survey, 64 per cent opt for domestic Domestic Apart from promoting the North East are willing to spend over international destinations abroad, MOT is making an attempt to create above `50,000 on the ‡*RD enough noise for these states within the holiday. 30% and 24% ‡0DQDOL&LUFXLW0DQDOL.XOOX 66% are willing to spend Kasol, Rohtang etc country. The various other circuits that the between `10,000 – Travellers are also embarking on domestic ‡$QGDPDQ /DNVKZDGHHS 25,000 and `25,000 – MOT is planning are also being developed travel for shorter yet frequent trips as 66% Islands `50,000, respectively keeping in mind the requirements of the respondents said that they are looking to ‡.DVKPLURURWKHUKLOO domestic tourists as well. In fact, the advent travel for less than seven days destinations of budget hotels in India is also catering Frequency to the tourists in India and is the major Accommodation International engine in driving the growth of domestic 52% 46% ‡'XEDL want to spend less than travellers are looking to ‡7KDLODQG6LQJDSRUH0DOD\VLD tourism in India. It is inevitable that with a travel 2-4 times a year `2,500 per night on ‡8. focused approach on this sector, it will only accommodation grow further.

Source: Yatra.com

Vikramajit Editorial Advertising Advertising (Mumbai) MUMBAI: Devika Jeet Suchita Saran TRAVTALK is a publication of DDP Publications Private Limited. information contained in this publication which is provided The publisher assumes no responsibility for returning any 504, Marine Chambers, 43, New Marine Lines, Chairman Nisha Verma Gunjan Sabikhi Branch Manager All information in TRAVTALK is derived from sources, which we for general use, and may not be appropriate for the read- material solicited or unsolicited nor is he responsible for Hazel Jain Director Opp. SNDT College, Mumbai - 400 020, India, Ankita Saxena Harshal Ashar consider reliable and a sincere effort is made to report ac- ers’ particular circumstances. Contents of this publication material lost or damaged. Ph.: +91-22-22070129; 22070130 SanJeet Karishma Khanna General Manager General Manager curate information. It is passed on to our readers without are copyright. No part of TRAVTALK or any part of the contents Editor & Publisher Shivani Kaul Priyanshu Wankhade any responsibility on our part. The publisher regret that he thereof may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system This publication is not meant to be an endorsement of any MIDDLE EAST: Desk Editor Gaganpreet Kaur Manager Advertising Durga Das Publications Middle East (FZE) Manager cannot accept liability for errors and omissions contained in or transmitted in any form without the permission of the VSHFLÀFSURGXFWRUVHUYLFHVRIIHUHG7KHSXEOLVKHUUHVHUYHV Z1-02, PO Box: 9348, Saif Zone, Sharjah, UAE Peden Doma Bhutia Susan Eapen the right to refuse, withdraw, amend or otherwise deal with Marketing Co-ordinator this publication, however caused. Similarly, opinions/views publication in writing. The same rule applies when there Ph.:+971-6-5528954, Fax: +971-6-5528956 Managing Editor Vikas Mandotia / Nitin Kumar expressed by third parties in abstract and/or in interviews is a copyright or the article is taken from another publica- all advertisements without explanation. Advertisement Designers are not necessarily shared by TRAVTALK. However, we wish to tion. An exemption is hereby granted for the extracts used TRAVTALK is printed, published and edited by SanJeet on behalf advice our readers that one or more recognised authorities for the purpose of fair review, provided two copies of the All advertisements must comply with the Indian and Inter- of DDP Publications Pvt. Ltd., printed at Super Cassettes Design: Nityanand Misra Industries Ltd., C-85, 86, 94, Sector-4, Noida, Distt.: Sudhir Mudgal may hold different views than those reported. Material used same publication are sent to us for our records. Publications national Advertisements Code. The publisher will not be Gautam Budh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh - 201301 and published at in this publication is intended for information purpose only. reproducing material either in part or in whole, without per- liable for any damage or loss caused by delayed publication, Production: Anil Kharbanda 72, Todarmal Road, New Delhi - 110 001 error or failure of an advertisement to appear. CIN: U22210DL2012PTC230432 Circulation: Ashok Rana 5HDGHUVDUHDGYLVHGWRVHHNVSHFLÀFDGYLFHEHIRUHDFWLQJRQ mission could face legal action. Ph.:+91-11-23344179 EXHIBITIONS JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 7 GPS ups the game with 8 cities in 2018 The 6th edition of GPS, beginning in Nagpur from January 15-17, will travel to eight cities in 2018. This year, GPS plans to launch its membership card and introduce two products—RainbowCTM and Trip38. The attendees will also be able to participate in around six EDWIN workshops to be hosted this year.

eight cities. The GPS App has plete travel management solu- ANKITA SAXENA become an essential part of With the addition of Hyderabad and Lucknow tion for the small and medium fter the Nagpur edition, every attendee. The lead scan- travel agencies. “The attend- AGlobal Panorama Show ning tool for the exhibitors is a to our portfolio of events this year, we envisage ees will engage with two of our (GPS) will be hosted in Hy- USP of GPS and if used opti- an overall increase in our market reach to over products—RainbowCTM and derabad (February 8-10), mally, it can reap high returns Trip38. Exhibitors in India and Ahmedabad (July 5-7), Chan- for the exhibitors.” 8,000 travel agents and travel professionals in overseas will be able to promote digarh (July 12-14), Lucknow 2018 across all the eight cities. their services and products to (July 19-21), Kolkata (August New cities the Indian travel trade through 2-4), Kochi (August 9-11) and With GPS Lucknow, the the App as well as through the Pune (August 23-25). Harman- travel trade of Uttar Pradesh, Harmandeep Singh Anand RainbowCTM platform. We ex- deep Singh Anand, Manag- Uttarakhand, Bihar and India Travel Award winner and pect this platform to be a game ing Director, Global Panorama Jharkhand will be targeted Managing Director, Global Panorama Showcase changer in the travel industry in Showcase, explains that the and an attendance of over the coming times. Trip38 would purpose of GPS is to educate 500 delegates is expected be a travel assistant tool for the and empower the agents in the over three days. The GPS Format and Sessions ducting a session with Manish tual card and thus there is no agent’s client database. These tertiary markets. Anand says, Hyderabad is being hosted GPS has a fixed format Gadia, a chartered accountant, need to carry it physically. It will products would be agent-friend- “With our presence in six cities in collaboration with the Fed- where the event is conducted to address the major issues be stored on the cardholder’s ly and may become one of the across India in 2017, and an at- eration of Telangana and over a three-day period with regarding GST. Other sessions smart phones. We plan to of- largest market places for the tendance of over 7,000 visitors Andhra Pradesh Chamber Day 1 exclusively for product will be on time management, fer the annual membership at travel industry and possibly the across all the events, we real- of Commerce and Industries presentation and education. cross selling, up-selling and op- a rate of `2000 + GST,” adds best source for travel trade re- ised that there are areas which (FTAPCCI) and the travel pro- The number of exhibitors is timising revenues with the avail- Anand. Those enrolling for lated information,” he explains. still need to be covered to en- fessionals from Telangana, restricted to about 110 at the able resources that an agency GPS membership will have a compass all Tier-II and Tier- Andhra Pradesh and Karna- Nagpur edition while 75-80 may have at their disposal.” full year access to the GPS EDWIN’18 III cities in India. Hence, we taka will be focused upon. exhibitors participate at other App at no additional cost. All In 2018, GPS is planning decided to add Lucknow and “We are expecting the tour- cities. The exhibitors at GPS GPS Membership new tie-ups, offers and ben- to conduct at least six Educa- Hyderabad to our portfolio of ism boards of Telangana and will range from tourism boards, GPS will launch the GPS efits would be available to the tional Destination Workshop events this year. With the addi- Andhra Pradesh to showcase airlines, DMCs, technology pro- membership card—‘GPS 10X registered members. International (EDWIN) to allow tion of these two new cities, we the region and thus invite viders and ancillary services re- Membership’ which will allow GPS attendees avail the op- envisage an overall increase in stake holders from across the lated to the travel trade. Anand the cardholders to avail dis- New product launch portunity to earn points and dis- our market reach to over 8,000 country and over 500 attend- points out, “GST continues counts on various products According to Anand, the counts. Bali is scheduled from travel agents and travel profes- ees are expected during the to be a burning issue for the and services across India, highlight at GPS 2018 edition March 5-10, where over 200 sionals in 2018 across all the three-day event,” says Anand. industry. Thus, we will be con- informs Anand. “This is a vir- will be the launch of a com- attendees are expected. 8 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 QUICKBYTES Ushering 2018 with hope in sight Following setbacks caused by GST and demonetisation, the tourism and hospitality industry is moving forward with a positive attitude to reverse the negative impact of these roadblocks. The aim is clear, to ensure India tourism thrives. TRAVTALK speaks with industry leaders to gauge the mood for the New Year.

TT BUREAU As the Vice President of TAAI, I’d As 2017 draws to a close, we an- be focusing on our industry events. ticipate a fruitful season in 2018 with As the President of OTOAI, I want We hope to make some big an- an increase in the number of tour- to create a platform for the Tier-II and nouncements soon. We recently had ists. We also are eagerly awaiting Tier-III regions of the country to be one office-bearers' meeting. Look- the launch of our software in 2018. well represented and be exposed ing forward, the business is going to The New Year will see us spread our to outbound. Also increasing mem- definitely grow. TAAI members have wings further in the genres of the bership is on the agenda for 2018. been spending a lot of our time and travel trade and ventures that have been brewing in the past year. Every On the business front, 2018 will be energy in selling products, which are year, we periodically add niche and about consolidating the destinations airline and hotel related. We need to Sanjay Narula Bharat Bhushan Atree Vice President traveller friendly products, and also which we are already promoting and look beyond and outside. My focus is India Travel Award winner expand the business with interre- TAAI expand product portfolios of our exist- and Managing Director, going to be on a certain part of India lated verticals within the company Mahendra Vakharia ing markets. New markets are being Caper Travel Company India Travel Award winner for domestic tourism as well as inter- to complement the existing business. introduced to us through new and ex- and President, OTOAI national tourism for my clients. We would perhaps also consider ex- isting agents, thus providing us a platform to reach many more pansion in other locations outside Ahmedabad. countries and travel destinations.

We, at Ezeego1, are looking at Government is diligently work- New Year 2018 is going to be expanding our presence in the retail ing on improving the ports and in- special for us as we look forward to space significantly. We will be identify- frastructure and is serious to make some interesting developments for ing markets and establishing our prod- cruise tourism a success in India. the company. We are expecting to uct in those regions by providing the Major ports are set to cut berthing grow more than cent per cent this best content and technology. We will charges for cruise ships and there year as well as we expand our offer- also be evolving in the franchise con- will be e-landing and e-visa facilities ings and also our sales teams and cept across India. Home-based agents for the tourists. This year, the coun- presence across the Indian sub- are another focus in India which is try witnessed 60,000 cruise tourists continent. We are looking forward to Neelu Singh growing quite substantially, and we through 55 ships and there is a po- Pankaj Nagpal launch our upgraded online system CEO & Director Ratna Chadha definitely want to be a part of it. tential to increase it to 30 lakh cruise India Travel Award winner which has been in the works for over Ezeego1 CEO and MD, Travstarz TIRUN Travel Marketing tourists in the coming years. As we Global Group two years and will bring about some all know that the cruise business is unique features to make us the best In 2018, we expect the trend of cyclical, we hope for promising years ahead. online product both in terms of offerings and technology. customer preference for brands over distributors to solidify further as their experiences and exposure increase. While we explore the potential of We had a satisfactory 2017 and The lines between home-sharing new technologies surfacing, we are with our newly-renovated hotel, we aim and professional hospitality services keen to embed Block Chain-based to successfully reposition ourselves as will also blur further. In fact, hotels solutions for travel trade, including a super luxurious offering. Three years are likely to seek some form of alli- the CRM capabilities to fulfil the cy- before the renovation started, we were ances with home-sharing platforms, cle and a universal solution which No 1 in RevPAR (Revenue per avail- much like OYO has already initiated Ritesh Agarwal can cater to the offline travel agency able room) in entire Delhi-NCR region with OYO Home - India's first home- Founder & CEO, OYO business as well. We are considering and we hope to achieve this position management service. New trends are emerging as decision- a free-to-use core module for travel by early April. Owing to the impecca- making power shifts to the millennial generation. agencies to be able to run their oper- Vivek Sanghi ble services and ambience we offer Sonica Malhotra ations smoothly. One of the important Founder our guests, Radisson Blu MBD is now JMD At Helanka Vacations, we have ecare Technology MBD Group and critical areas we are focusing on perceived as the ‘true value for money invested heavily in new infrastruc- is to enter into selected international markets to expand our hotel’ in Ludhiana. And, this is having a great impact on our ture this year by moving into our own reach and presence. ARR (Average Room Rate) as well; in 2017 our hotel revenue five-storey premises in Colombo. By performance had an upward graph. utilising our full group strength, we expect to see extensive growth in this year and create new partnerships to In the New Year, we have ex- The New Year will be one of the support us with our targets. pectations from the Government to most dynamic years, with the travel have many more tourism friendly sector growth expected to touch the Rishantha Mendis Director, Helanka Vacations policies, which will help to build double digit mark. Other than Anda- better infrastructure and tourism man, Goa, Kerala, Kashmir, Ladakh, friendly environment for growth and Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, With the dust on GST now clearly also sustenance, which is very im- Maldives and Malaysia, destina- settling down, I see 2018 as a year portant. A better global economic tions such as Hanuwantia in Mad- where travel shall simply rise to new scenario will encourage people to hya Pradesh, and internationally, heights. The year 2018 will see new Debasish Bhowmik travel more, thereby helping every- Manheer Singh Sethi Bhutan, Tashkent, Russia, Iceland, peaks in the Indian travel industry Sr. Vice President one to fulfil their targets and act as Co-founder, Travkart.com, Balkan Region (Croatia, Romania, with a booming economy and well- Hotel Clarks Shiraz India Travel Award winner an incentives for further develop- Serbia, Czech Republic) are gaining settled trade parameters. We are tar- ment and growth. popularity. The economic changes have been more than ben- geting at least a 20 per cent growth eficial barring some issues in the initial run. year-on-year in 2017-2018. Pradeep Saboo Partner, Guideline Travels LLP

2018 is a very exciting year for us as we will be celebrating the Tamarind Global has drawn up a ‘Vision 2020’ which defines our 20th anniversary of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai being shot in Scotland. strategy for the next four years. The four verticals of Tamarind Glo- The Bollywood movie was released in October but we will be cel- bal—Tours, Events, Weddings and Corporate Services, have big ebrating the movie throughout the year through various activities. We plans for the coming year. The four verticals have clearly defined have come up with a trip planner to allow travellers to visit the filming goals, in line with our vision, which is ‘to be the most desired brand, locations throughout Scotland. We will also be working on consumer building sustainable enterprise value, by creating unforgettable ex- activities in collaboration with Dharma Productions and continue to periences’. The plans include opening of three new international of- offer highest level of content and experiences to sell to our travel trade fices as well as expansion of our verticals in more locations in India. partners in India. Weddings and high-end MICE business will be key drivers of growth Kirsten Spence Mahesh Shirodkar for the coming year. Senior Manager- Emerging India Travel Award winner, Markets, VisitScotland MD, Tamarind Global Contd. on page 17

10 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 QUICKBYTES Exploring tourism growth segments Some segments of Indian outbound tourism are showing maximum gain. To identify these segments-from small groups, large groups, leisure travellers, incentive travel or other categories-TRAVTALK speaks with industry players.

INDER RAJ AHLUWALIA France has witnessed an unprece- Several Indian outbound dented growth of Indian tourists in the segments are yielding more gain. With middle class families spending last few years. This growth is across While MICE and family – travel are more on foreign travel, India is a poten- segments, especially the group se- the largest segments, small groups tial market for Malaysia. On our part, ries, and FITs choosing France as a of luxury travel are giving the high- we have multiple attractions for all seg- solo destination. The corporate incen- est gains per passenger. In Israel, ments. While virtually all segments - tive segment has also surged. France we’ve seen growth in the last year honeymooners, single people, DINKS, is also becoming a very aspirational from two sectors, mainly luxury and students, families, ladies’ clubs, and choice for destination weddings. This High-End travel, and selective MICE senior citizens, etc. are growing, the upward trend can be attributed to our Sheetal Munshaw groups with high spends. Wed- Hassan Madah number of leisure-trip seekers is con- concerted efforts to position France Director dings and honeymooners are also Director stantly increasing. More Indians are as a premier destination by showcas- Atout France spending more. The number of In- Israel Ministry of Tourism Sulaiman Suip ing it to our Indian travel trade part- dian honeymooners visiting Israel has visiting to admire nature, enjoy theme Director parks, and exploit the bargain shopping Tourism Malaysia ners, and our efforts to better equip the French travel industry grown impressively. opportunities offered. to adapt to the specificities of the Indian clientele.

South Africa’s overall attraction While almost all segments of trav- FITs and MICE as the two maxi- makes it popular for all segments, but ellers from India are increasing, some mum growth segments to Ireland. over the last couple of years, young segments have shown extraordinary In FITs, self-drives are increasing, couples and families are two of the growth. The maximum growth and with visitors wanting to set their own key India market segments visiting gain segments are weddings, hon- route, and choose their own itinerary. the country. Young couples get to eymooners, leisure holiday-seekers, Ireland offers remarkable choice; bond over the numerous adventure and incentive travel. The incentive thanks to two world-class touring activities, wildlife safaris, bush walks travel sector is booming. Thailand routes, namely, Wild Atlantic Way and diverse culinary experiences. has become a preferred destination and the Causeway Coastal. Screen Hanneli Slabber Families find themselves drawn to Isra Stapanaseth for these segments because of its Beena Menon tourism also continues to grow, with India Travel Award winner South Africa owing to the wide varie- Director, Tourism wealth of attractions that are avail- Representative – India the filming of the Game of Thrones Regional GM-Asia, Australa- ty of adventure-led activities for every Authority of Thailand able at reasonable rates, backed Tourism Ireland series in Northern Ireland, and the sia and Middle East, South 1HZ'HOKL2IÀFH Star Wars films on the Wild Atlantic African Tourism family member to indulge in – kids, up by sustained marketing in the parents and even grandparents. The Indian market. Way. MICE is also growing phenomenally. The British Irish country is very inclusive when it comes to children, and sen- Visa Scheme, improved air access to Ireland, its proximity iors are encouraged and assisted in participating in every- to the UK, and availability of Indian food are all boosting thing from bungee to shark-cage dives and wildlife walks. this sector.

MICE and group tourism are the maximum growth sectors to Germany. Germany’s extensive and world-class convention facilities make it an ideal MICE destination, and these are sought-after by Indian companies. Group tourism is also showing great gains, thanks to its location in the heart of Europe! Almost all groups Sonia Prakash to Europe include Germany in their Romit Theophilus Destination Vice President, itinerary due to it’s all-round tourist Director India, German Holland infrastructure and attractions. 1DWLRQDO7RXULVW2IÀFH Large group tours with brands like Cox & Kings, The Philippines Department of Thomas Cook India, SOTC Tourism has been actively promoting India and other standalone the archipelago not only as a nor- tour operators, are showing mal holiday destination but also for maximum growth and gains luxury visitors, MICE, weddings and in Indian traffic to Holland. small groups. While most segments This is mainly owing to in- are increasing, the maximum gain segment from India has been small creased MICE movement groups and honeymooners. to the country. Holland Arjun Kant Chadha is one of the high-selling Manager, Philippines Tourist destinations in Europe and 2IÀFH,QGLD7UDYHO$ZDUGZLQQHU has different attractions for all kinds of tourists–from the beautiful canal city of We have been actively promot- Amsterdam, Madurodam ing the castle city not only as a (miniature Holland) and not holiday destination but also for oth- er segments which include luxury, to miss, Keukenhof garden MICE and small group travel. While is an all time favourite of In- overall traffic from India has grown, dian tourists. Now, with Jet the maximum gain segments are Airways and KLM starting groups – both small and large – new flights between Ben- which visit the city during their Euro- galuru, Delhi and Mumbai, pean tours. Eckard Kremer and Amsterdam there will Asia Head be more Indians travelling 0XQLFK7RXULVW2IÀFH to the country.

12 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TECHNOLOGY New certification tool for agents Travelport’s new PCI DSS Certification Wizard Tool would change how agents deal with customer credit information and work through a simple streamlined process, says Sandeep Dwivedi, Chief Operating Officer, InterGlobe Technology Quotient.

TT BUREAU lined process. This certifica- card transactions is required Security Standards (PCI Speaking on the aim ance with the new PCI DSS tion is necessary for IATA to provide proof of PCI DSS DSS) is a more secure en- behind launching this certi- protocol, we released new ravelport has launched certified travel agencies compliance to IATA,” says cryption protocol, Transport fication, he says, “Travelport versions of Galileo SSL and Tthe new PCI DSS Cer- to combat criminal activity Sandeep Dwivedi, Chief Layer Security (TLS) 1.2 or and ITQ as key members Travelport Smartpoint (for tification Wizard Tool to that is critical when dealing Operating Officer, InterGlobe higher, designed to encoun- of the travel fraternity have Travelport Apollo and Galileo streamline processes for with customer credit card Technology Quotient. ter fraud and hacking cost- the responsibility to ensure users) this November.” agents. “The PCI DSS Cer- information. From March ing the global travel industry compliance with the new PCI tification has been launched 2018, any IATA agent who The new certifica- bears annually. Currently the DSS standard and IATA reso- Travelport has also tied to help all customers achieve accepts card transactions tion is going to help the frauds have reached an es- lution. We are serious about up with SecurityMetrics, on PCI DSS certification before against its own merchant agencies in the long run. timated value of one billion data security and therefore, which Diwvedi says, “After March 31, 2018 through a agreement or issues Billing “The latest version of Pay- dollars y-o-y and growing,” to help facilitate travel busi- a lengthy selection process, simple, low cost and stream- and Settlement Plan (BSP) ment Card Industry Data reveals Dwivedi. nesses’ continued compli- Travelport chose to partner with SecurityMetrics. With this partnership, we have made a very complex proc- ess of certification, a simple, low cost and streamlined process. The PCI DSS Cer- tification program provides customers with an online

Sandeep Dwivedi COO, InterGlobe Technology Quotient, India Travel Award winner

We have released new versions of Galileo SSL and Travelport Smart- point to help facilitate travel businesses’ continued compliance ZLWKWKHQHZ3&, DSS protocol

Wizard Tool to guide agents through the self-assessment questionnaire process. The multi-language tool enables Travelport’s agency custom- ers worldwide to achieve PCI DSS compliance, a require- ment by the card industry for every business that touches card payments,” he stresses.

When asked about why this certification would be advantageous for Travelport, Dwivedi reveals, “Combin- ing consumer protection with customer-driven solutions is essential as it creates frictionless payment proc- esses. We're delighted to offer this PCI DSS certifica- tion program in partnership with SecurityMetrics. It is our commitment to ensure our customers’ businesses oper- ate within a compliant envi- ronment so they are able to adhere to industry regulations and become a trusted partner to their customers.”

DEBATEDEBA Closing of overseas offices:

TRAVTALK brought together five travel trade experts to discuss about how the closure of India tourism offices at seven overseas locations would affect the industry. BONE OF CONTENTION HIGHLIGHTS CHALLENGES How will this impact the inbound industry? Y Plan is to encourage more participation Y Out of the seven offices, three were in exhibitions and roadshows with gov- located in cities which generated the ernment and private partnership maximum number of tourists

Has the trade been kept in the dark about this Y Despite the Minister’s assurance in the YLooking at NITI Ayog's three-year move or were they aware of it? functioning of the offices abroad, the de- programme, this decision is only a part cision came as a major blow and trade of the process associations have written to the Ministry to review and rationalise the same

Should the offices now move to embassies/Air Y The presence of embassies in most of Y Air India already has its job to do India offices? the countries gives a wider reach and and embassies are more like forts serves as a point of contact for the local where not everyone can enter for se- market in helping consumers and trade curity reasons. There is a need for a with the right data separate entity for this job which may be done through PR agencies

Where will the money saved now be invested? Y One-to-one roadshows hold value along Y The money would rather be used in with inviting the foreign tour operators to training the guns for top source mar- India and allow them to experience the kets like the Americas, UK, France, destination themselves. There is also the etc. that generate maximum inbound need to tap new markets and convince tourists rather than venture onto newer them to include India in the itineraries markets such as Russia How useful were these offices? Y They were very helpful in identifying the Y The current offices are not up to the right tour operators with whom the trade mark. To better showcase Incredible could interact and promote India as a India, there is a huge requirement of tourist destination professionals to run the offices along with the Ministry

Opinion

We are not closing down our offices, we are only restruc- the whole structure is being revamped. We are not just turing our overseas presence in terms of creating some ma- looking at closing of offices, as we might relocate some jor hubs in the international market. Now, we will perhaps offices as well. However, the numbers might come down have 7-8 hubs where we will have our presence through in terms of hubs. Regarding the low manpower at the these foriegn offices. In rest of the countries, we will be hav- existing offices, I would like to say that we did not fill ing India Tourism Marketing Representatives (ITMR), and the existing offices because we were in the process of they will be carrying out work under direction of these hubs, restructuring our overseas offices. However, now, all which we will be creating in our key markets. Also, these the manpower we have around the world will be relocated to Rashmi Verma hubs will be engaging PR agencies, who will be working in the hubs, and thus the number of people in each hub will be Secretary, some of these key markets and emerging markets. Thus, much more than what it is currently. Ministry of Tourism Government of India DEBATEATE Great job or a great loss?

These offices should not be shut down completely The change is welcome and the shutting of these but strengthened with more staff and experienced offices is by far the best decision. Management by officers. Active steps should be taken to participate the right people at these offices has proved benefi- in exhibitions and undertake activities to promote In- cial in the past. So if the decision has been taken dia rather than wait for the clients to come to them. to shut them down, I am sure the authorities have We were not informed of the news officially but thought of an alternative to spend the money in some only through sources that a decision was in process other direction. I do not feel that the numbers should to shut the foreign offices in April and as IATO we ad- come down in any way with this decision. The dressed the same to the then Tourism Minister. In Oc- destinations as products are already competing tober we met the new Minister and were assured that amongst themselves but it is the people who run steps are being taken to ensure that these offices the show and decide the results. We have to look Rajiv Mehra would not be closed down. However, we were shocked at the bigger picture where the plan is to participate Homa Mistry Vice President, Indian Association of when the decision was announced in December India Travel Award winner, Tour Operators (IATO) more in exhibitions and roadshows with government CEO, Trail Blazer Tours (India) despite having written to the Ministry to review the and private partnership. With these proposed plans, same. These foreign tourist offices were not meant to generate enquires. a higher number of inbound tourists are expected to be generated. Thus, we They were very helpful in identifying the right tour operators with whom the are headed in the right direction. The traditional marketing method has to be trade could interact. Their main role however was to create awareness revamped. If we need to capture the attention of a larger audience in today’s about India and project it as a viable destination to promote. They are not respon- age with lesser investment, social media is the way forward. Also, we have to sible for individual marketing. I believe money has to be invested in promoting invest funds to target the young generation. Digital marketing is an important India through social media and other media platforms. We also need to fund the tool to counter negative sentiments about India and then we can walk the foreign offices to gear up and deal with crisis. If leveraged properly, the foreign streets for sales. The government of the day is bringing in change in various offices are capable of crisis management. Now that the offices are being closed aspects of travel and I feel that we should appreciate the same. The change may down, there is a need for more roadshows in the untapped potential markets for be different than expected in terms of marketing strategies, etc. but I feel that the inbound tourism. future will be better.

Closing down the offices is a rash decision which has not been thought over well. I believe that if the offices were not doing justice to their roles, issues should have been resolved rather than just shutting them down. In fact, out of the seven offices, three were located in cities from where we received the maximum number of tourists. When we meet tour operators at newer destinations, they need an additional push to promote India. The foreign offices would create a sense of assurance among the local trade regarding the political and socio-economic Bharat Bhushan Atree stability in India and also validate the idea of India Travel Award winner, MD, Caper Travel Company promoting India as a tourist destination. They may not have generated leads but played a major role in I believe NITI Ayog has taken a learned decision to the gamut of things to create goodwill for India. Social media is important but shut a few offices. I agree that we need some form of offline media promotions are equally important. Also, the foreign offices host representation abroad for India but the current offices festivals where the local community is invited to celebrate. If the rationale behind are not up to the mark. We are staffing these officials shutting the foreign offices is to cut expenses, then shifting these offices with who are probably not the best resources. If we really the embassies or Air India offices sounds like a solution. The idea is to have a want to move forward in showcasing Incredible India, separate entity to do the promotional and marketing work professionally. There we need professionals to run the offices along with are only two markets from where we get the charter business—the UK and the Ministry and get the best people to man these of- Russia where the latter is far ahead. fices. What the NITI Ayog has in mind for these offices is a closely guarded secret. However, the position has been made clear that the government is eager to scale up the numbers for inbound tourism and create Vikram Madhok There has been a shift in the market from the platforms to promote Incredible India. Logic defies me India Travel Award winner and traditional to the emerging. Given the present scenario as to why a foreign office is being opened in Russia. Honorary Treasurer, PATA where the foreign offices are being shut down, there It could be linked to a G2G position. Also, a strong is a need to spend the money on positive publicity economy of the nation allows its citizens higher disposable incomes and hence for India. Though social media and digital marketing the propensity to travel. The USA economy is solid currently which is also an im- are important tools of today’s age, traditional media portant market but with the same logic, Russian economy is not the strongest and platforms like print, electronic and hoardings are people do not have large sums of money to spend on long haul holidays. I would equally important for promotion. Also, one-to-one put the money in training the guns for the top source markets like the Americas, roadshows hold value along with inviting the foreign the UK, France, etc. that generate maximum inbound tourists rather than venture tour operators to India and allow them to experience onto newer markets such as Russia. the destination themselves. There is also a need to tap new markets and potential tour who have Sandeep Jain Hon. Joint Secretary was live a wide market reach to the Southeast Asia and the IATO Middle East and convince them to include India in the December 19, 2017 at 11:07 itineraries. I believe that shifting the foreign offices within embassies is a good idea because the presence of embassies in most of the countries gives us a wider 2,354 People reached reach. Also, embassies are a point of contact for the local market and can help with 980 Video views the right data regarding the consumers and trade as well. However, professionals within the embassy have to handle the job while the embassies can monitor 77 5HDFWLRQVFRPPHQWV VKDUHV the activities well. 16 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 NEWS Innovative & unique Philippines brands taxis products on offer The Department of Tourism, Philippines, branded taxis and buses in Mumbai and Delhi in order to increase the visibility of the archipelago. Her Excellency Ma. Teresita C.Daza, Ambassador, Republic of Iris Reps has plans to bring in Philippines to India, inaugurated the promotional campaign along with SanJeet, India Representative, exciting products that have a unique Philippines Tourism, with 50 taxis in Mumbai and two HOHO buses in New Delhi. proposition on offer.

TT BUREAU rmed with a strategy to Abring about changes in the dynamics of the market, howev- er small, Iris Reps is hopeful of bringing in newer and exciting products into the market. Ale- fiya Singh, Director, Iris Reps, says, “We hope to expand our portfolio in the new year with unique clients to create excite- $OHÀ\D6LQJK ment in the market. We should Director, Iris Reps be able to get more unique destinations, boutique hotels, says, “It is better to approach apartments, and theme parks the traditional markets for new as India as a market has now products and seek to explore opened up to new experiences.” newer, tiered cities for the regular products. Kochi is one In 2017 alone, Iris Reps of the newer markets we are added three new products to looking at for our principals.” its client list - Coco Collection, VISTA DMC for Spain and Iris Reps recently Portugal, and MGM Macau. conducted a Fam trip for its “We have a lot of activities client Swiss Garden Interna- earmarked for our travel part- tional Hotels in Malaysia in ners for 2018. Our strategy is association with Sri Lankan to aggressively promote MGM Airlines and Akquasun Holi- Macau and MGM Cotai in the days. The trip showcased its new year,” Singh adds. MICE possibilities and how Swiss Garden is ready to Speaking about the strat- handle incentive and wedding egy she plans to adopt, Singh groups from India. Tripping keeps them on their toes Trip Tap Toe recently hosted a B2B networking event for its travel trade partners in Chandigarh. The company brought together key industry stakeholders from the region to meet and greet under one roof and plan the way forward for the upcoming year. QUICKBYTES JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 17 The New Year promises to look up

Contd. from page 8 We shall soon announce new We have carried around 60,000 routes into Europe and Africa that We look at 2018 with great expec- passengers in 2017 till October and is most likely to start by summer. tations and excitement. With cruises that represents a growth of 34 per These new routes will comple- gaining popularity, we believe that cent. Majority of these passengers ment our services connecting to passengers now understand that are from Russia, Kazakhstan and more destinations from India. The cruising is the next best way to see Central Asia. The number of Indian coming year shall also witness our the world. We are amazed to see passengers remain relatively small at new 787 Dreamliners on long-haul bookings for 2018 already. Guests just about 10 per cent of the total. We routes and Boeing 737 Max aircraft have locked in their deposit and se- are hoping to increase that number. on short-haul destinations. We also Sunil V A lected offers for their 2018 travel. We hope to get the Astana flights to Peter Foster look forward to big-ticket weddings in Regional Vice President-ISC President & CEO Also, the myth that only elderly Ian Banerjee (Indian Sub-Continent), daily. Thereafter, we will certainly be Oman. In 2017, there were eight big Air Astana guests travel on cruises is now bro- Director Oman Air looking at Mumbai, which would most Global Anchor Cruises weddings in Oman from India and in ken and Gen-X has been booking likely happen in 2019. This could be connected to Astana, as 2018 we expect this segment to increase. We will channelise premium cruise liners for their travel. we have a new airport there— Astana Nursultan Nazarbayev our energies to continue our focus on corporates, premium, International Airport. MICE and Europe traffic.

We hope that the operating en- 2018 is going to be an exciting In 2018, we will continue our Fam vironment in 2018 will improve to year for Indian aviation. Improved trips for the influencers of travel like reflect better yields and higher load infrastructure and digitisation will travel bloggers and B2B media, factors. However, we do expect that be key drivers for us. With Regional which has proven to be very suc- the passenger business will continue Connectivity Scheme - UDAN taking cessful in increasing awareness and to be affected by overcapacity and off to a good start in 2017, passen- generating interest for our products. strong competition from other air- gers can look forward to flying to un- While in 2017 we worked on sustain- lines. We are addressing the indus- served and underserved routes and able growth of the clients we repre- try challenges through our corporate sectors at affordable fares. Contin- sent, in 2018, we will also look at ex- Mark Sutch transformation and by expanding our Amar Abrol ued and increased support from Komal Seth panding our representation portfolio. Regional General Manager route network, increasing frequen- MD & CEO, AirAsia India, the Central & State Govt. and the Director SriLankan Airlines will focus on its – South Asia, Middle East India Travel Award winner Outbound Konnections DQG$IULFD&DWKD\3DFLÀF cies on our most popular routes and tourism ministry in certain areas will Business Class fares and services Airways buying more fuel-efficient aircraft. help in creating reform. Standardisation in terms of includ- to the India market and the new Melbourne route connect- We expect to see the benefits of ing ATF under GST, uniformity in airport charges, revival of ing India via Sri Lanka. Sharjah Tourism will come in a big our transformation in 2018, as it will help us to increase pro- ghost airports, automation of processes at existing airports, way through round the year marketing campaigns for B2B ductivity and reduce costs while improving the quality of our will be key factors for airlines to serve travellers efficiently and consumer markets. services to customers. and help everyone fly! 18 TRAVTRAVTALKTALK JANUARYJANUARY1 1STST FFORTNIGHTORTNNIGHIGHT ISSUE 20120188 FAMILYALBUM India Travel Awards returns to

India Travel AAwardswa travelled to North India for its fourth edition to honour and recognise the talent and excellence of the travel and tourism industry.indu The black-tie regional event was held at The LaLit, New Delhi on December 21, 2017, in the presence of the who's who of tthe industry. The starry awards night was made memorable with entertaining performances, cocktails and dinner. FAMILYALBUM JANUARYJANUARY 1STST FORTNIGHTFORTNIGHT ISSUE 20182018 TRAVTRAVTALKTALK 19 North India for its fourth edition 20 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 ATTRACTIONS Experience South Africa with a twist To ensure that 100,000-plus Indian travellers who visit South Africa annually experience something new and different, the South Africa Tourism Board has been promoting places beyond the cities of Cape Town and Durban and activities that are novel and exciting. Here are 10 reasons why they will want to return to the country.

WESTERN CAPE Wildlife Ranch offering a hair- HAZEL JAIN Plettenberg Bay in raising crocodile-cage dive. It ndian travellers, a lot of Western Cape is becoming is also one of the few places Iwhom are repeat travellers popular amongst adventure in the world to enjoy a meer- to South Africa, want more junkies due to its proximity kat safari. experiences. An Indian trav- to the Bloukrans Bridge. Just eller demands an average outside of Plettenberg Bay is EASTERN CAPE of six activities per day in the largest single dome free- A contemporary setting and a laidback charm gives East London a distinc- tive identity. Well-travelled love playing in the shallow wa- RedBerry Strawberry Farm Indians would appreciate ters, as adults sit in their deck plucking fresh strawberries. this picturesque city, still chairs and marvel at the Kny- untouched by tourist com- Port Elizabeth houses sna Heads. The town also has Inland from the Cape’s mercialisation as the perfect South Africa's third larg- to its name an Oyster Festival famous Garden Route, trav- solution for leisurely vaca- est national reserve where amongst other annual events, travellers can watch hun- where approximately 200,000 dreds of African elephants oysters are consumed over a roam around freely, making South Africa. They want to flight multi-species bird avi- 10-day period. it a great safari experience. spend less time and money ary in the world, called Birds The Addo National Park on transfers and prefer stay- of Eden. Wildlife lovers will Halfway between Cape also has a thriving marine ing out of metros to expe- also find themselves drawn to Town and Port Elizabeth on life and rich flora, offering rience a different kind of Monkeyland, a primate sanc- Garden Route, George – the only Big 7 safari options shopping that involves local tuary nestled in the forests of Garden Route’s largest city in the world. This safari is a indigenous artists. Coastal the Garden Route, just next – is a tourist mecca with of- combination of marine sa- towns like Plettenberg Bay, to Birds of Eden. ferings that cater to all age fari searching for sharks and Knysna, George, Mossel groups. Travellers can dance ellers will find Oudtshoorn tions clubbed with a variety whales and the famous Big 5 Bay, Oudtshoorn and Port Situated in the heart of the night away on the Insom- – popularly known as the of adventure experiences in safari. Port Elizabeth also in- Elizabeth on Garden Route Garden Route, Knysna plays niac Party Bus, a 40-seater ostrich capital of the world. very untouched natural set- cludes Nelson Mandela Bay and East London a little fur- host to numerous adventure single decker bus complete The town is home to several tings. East London is also where one can find Route ther on, are picturesque are- activities. Knysna Lagoon, a with bar, DJ booth and bath- interesting attractions like one of the few places where 67 – a collection of 67 art as where travellers can pack must-see in the town, opens room facilities for group Cango Caves with its truly one can see the White pieces celebrating the years in a lot of action into shorter between two sandstone cliffs tours. Families can choose to grand stalactite and stalag- Lion at the Inkwenkezi Na- Nelson Mandela devoted to time spans. known as the Heads. Children spend a day of bonding at the mite formations and Cango tional Park. public life.

Travkart appointed PSA 10 years of connecting Delhi-Guangzhou for Madame As China Southern Airlines celebrates ten years of its New Delhi to Guangzhou flight, TRAVTALK maps their journey so far and takes a look deeper in to its future course. Tussauds Delhi diversity and quality improve- New York, Christchurch, Ad- ed out to numerous travel NIKHIL ANAND Travkart, a unit of Holi- ments but what we drew most elaide, Toronto and Mexico. agents to recognize their ef- days by Sahibji that spe- t was back in October 2007 from the Indian market was forts in aiding the growth of cialises in fixed departure Iwhen China Southern Air- cooperation and strength The celebratory evening the airline. Expressing grati- and themed holidays be- lines began their tryst with out of this relationship. I feel also marked the unveiling tude to the travel agents for comes the preferred sales the Indian market. From a that this journey has been of the airline’s new flight to their continued business and humble beginning, com- equally beneficial to both the Cairns from December 4, support, Wang stressed the prising only three flights a countries. India continues to 2017. Cairns will be the sixth pivotal role played by the week, the airline has come be a very valuable market destination for China South- agents to promote China a long way to now operate for us and we look forward ern airlines’ operations into Southern Airlines as the double dailies between New to continue providing our air Gloria Wang Australia and give the Indian main carrier between India Delhi and Guangzhou. With services and develop strong- General Manager traveller another convenient and China and also beyond. no direct connectivity into er bonds with the Indian China Southern Airlines option to fly to the land down For the next decade as Guangzhou before China travel community.” under via Guangzhou with well, the airline will look Southern commenced op- India continues to three weekly flight options. to further its partnership erations, Indian travellers The airline, Wang add- be a very valuable Speaking about the airline’s with the Indian travel trade agent (PSA) for Madame had to go all the way to Hong ed, is doing really well in this commitment to the Indian to fuel success for both Tussauds Delhi. The attrac- Kong and then take alterna- market owing to its popularity market for us and market, she also added, “Our parties cohesively. tion opened to public on tive means of commute or amongst travellers looking to extensive global networking December 1, 2017, visitors travel to other intermediary visit China and beyond and we look forward to allows us the ability to trans- may buy tickets on Travkart points like Bangkok, etc. is currently seeing an aver- continue provid- port Indian travellers not Achieving Milestone website and mobile app. age passenger load factor of only to China but also to the  &KLQD6RXWKHUQ$LUOLQHV th ing our air serv- Manheer Singh Sethi, To celebrate their 10 over 80 per cent. Due to its world. With the largest fleet hosted a glitzy evening Co-founder, Travkart said, anniversary milestone with sheer size, the Indian market ices and develop in the People’s Republic of in Delhi, raising a toast “We are extremely delighted the Indian trade, China has increasingly become one China, we have connections to the long-standing to be the first online travel Southern Airlines hosted a of the key emerging markets stronger bonds ranging from North America relationship with the platform to have been se- glitzy evening in the national globally and China Southern with the Indian to Australia to New Zealand, Indian industry lected as a PSA by such a capital, raising a toast to Airlines was quick to realise etc.” She further added that The celebratory evening globally renowned brand the long-standing relation- the potential of the country. travel community by 2020, the airline will have also marked the unveil- like Madame Tussauds for ship with the Indian industry. The airline is looking forward over 1000 aircraft in its fleet ing of the airline’s new the launch of its first ever Addressing the gathering, to expanding its operations Indian market, it has also and their flying map will cov- IOLJKWWR&DLUQVWKH attraction in the country. Our Gloria Wang, General in India, with new routes made attempts to leapfrog on er many more international airline's sixth destination platform offer customers a Manager, China Southern and frequencies in the com- the global scale with the aug- destinations. in Australia with three wide selection of activities Airlines, exclaimed, “Over ing years. While in the last ment of new destinations like weekly flight options and must-see places they this 10-year journey we not 10 years the airline has ce- Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, The cocktail event also from India can book.” only witnessed innovations, mented its presence in the Vancouver, San Francisco, saw agency awards hand-

22 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 FAMILYALBUM Scotland woos Indian travel trade VisitScotland recently conducted its three-city roadshow in New Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai in partnership with Etihad Airways. The tourism board will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of Bollywood blockbuster Kuch Kuch Hota Hai being shot in the country through various trade and consumer activations throughout the year in 2018. NEWS JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 23 Gourmets along the river Decoding shopping tourism AmaWaterways takes its cruisers on hosted culinary tours This year under the FITUR Shopping Section, the where foodies and wine connoisseurs can delve into the trade show will focus on some of the key issues for the local flavours amidst serene landscapes. development of shopping tourism.

TT BUREAU TT BUREAU shopping tourism will revolve around a series of round ta- Lab 2018 with six practical maWaterways has part- he annual travel trade fair bles that will discuss topics workshops that will provide Anered with James Beard TFITUR, organised by IFE- such as, ‘Shopping Tourism at solutions for digital tourism. Award-winning cookbook au- MA will be held from January the Destination: Global Brands The workshops will be lim- thor and Master Chef Jonne 17-21 at Feria de Madrid. As and Local Design’; ‘Shopping ited to 20 attendees and will Weir for its special sailing, the World Tourism Organisa- Tourism in distinctive Madrid require prior registration. Last ‘Taste of Bordeaux – Culinary tion (UNWTO) has highlighted, shops’ and ‘Shopping Tourism year the event saw participa- Cruise Hosted by Joanne shopping tourism is now one and Digitisation.’ tion of 9,893 exhibitor com- Weir’. The seven-night cruise of the main motivations for mil- panies from 165 countries/ will embark on July 26, 2018, former residence of French stays in Paris or a post-cruise lions of people when it comes FITUR Know-How and regions; 135,838 trade par- travelling through the Bor- philosopher Michel de Mon- tour of the Loire Valley are to choosing a destination for Export will also conduct the ticipants and 109,134 visitors deaux region along the Gar- taigne. Optional pre-cruise also available. their holiday. The session on second edition of SEGITTUR from the general public. onne and Dordogne Rivers.

Fans of Weir will have the opportunity to engage with the celebrated chef both on board and during shore excursions exploring local culinary and viticulture high- lights. “Food and wine have become such critical parts of the way travellers expect to experience a country or city that it is important that we continue to propose a diversity of culinary expe- riences on our ships and during our excursions,” says Rudi Schreiner, President and Co-owner, AmaWaterways.

To enhance the AmaWa- terways experience the cruise line has sales offices in Mum- bai and New Delhi as well for its guests and patrons. AmaWaterways offers unfor- gettable river cruises with 19 ships that sail Europe’s Dan- ube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhone, Seine, Garonne, Dordogne, Dutch and Belgian Waterways and Douro Rivers, South East Asia’s Mekong and Africa’s Chobe River.

The company is re- nowned for its award-winning dining including ‘The Chef’s Table’ specialty restaurant as well as complimentary fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. The 2018 Culinary Cruise will take guests through the Bordeaux region of France, one of the world’s undisputed wine capitals, and will be punctu- ated by a comprehensive choice of complimentary shore excursions highlight- ing French culture, food, and wine, including visits to vineyards and a wine festival exclusive to Ama- Waterways’ guests. Led by knowledgeable local guides, guests will make their way through the renowned vine- yards of Saint-Émilion, Pauil- lac, Pomerol and Libourne, discovering timeless tradi- tions from the winemakers themselves. They will also visit iconic chateaux for wine tastings, including a tasting at the 14th century Château de Montaigne, once the 24 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 NEWS Agents soar with Hahn Air Philippines boost for India Hahn Air recently hosted an award ceremony at Radisson Blu Hotel, The Department of Tourism (DOT), Philippines signed a Memorandum of Chennai City Centre, to celebrate and recognise the continued support of its Agreement with Singapore International Airlines (SIA) to undertake joint travel partners. Over 100 travel agents from Tamil Nadu were invited, where marketing initiatives to promote the Philippines to the Indian market through the airline awarded certificates of appreciation to its top 10 agencies. social media, familiarisation tours, roadshows, among others.

Atout France honours travel partners In a glittering gala night in Mumbai, Atout France continued the tradition of recognising three travel agencies for an exemplary showcase of France through published itineraries and two tour operators for exceptional achievements in the visa domain. The event was graced by the pres- ence of His Highness Shriji Arvind Singhji Mewar of Udaipur and was attended by decision makers from trade. OPPORTUNITY JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 25 JUNE

International 3-5 Sydney, Australia IATA AGM 2018 15-17 Beijing, China BITE JULY

National 5-7 Ahmedabad GPS 6-8 Kolkata TTF 7-8 Jaipur Travel Wedding Show Event Talk 7-9 Delhi Hotel Operations Summit India 2018 February Contd... 9-10 Mumbai Kiwi Link India JANUARY International 12 Bengaluru Tourism New Zealand Frontline Training 5-7 Abu Dhabi, UAE IBTM Arabia 12-14 Chandigarh GPS National 11-13 Milan, Italy BIT 13 New Delhi Tourism New Zealand Frontline Training 6 New Delhi GlobDO+RVSLWDOLW\&RQFODYH 20-21 Melbourne, Australia AIME 2018 13-15 Hyderabad TTF 8 Bengaluru 8 ,5RDGVKRZ 21-22 Olympia, London Business Travel Show (BTS) 19-21 Lucknow GPS 9 Ahmedabad 8 ,5RDGVKRZ 21-22 Olympia, London TTE International 11 Kolkata 8 ,5RDGVKRZ 21-23 Istanbul, Turkey $&(RI0,&( 17-18 Singapore $&7(*OREDO6XPPLW 11-13 Kochi India International Travel Mart (IITM) 21-23 Abu Dhabi, UAE 3$7$$GYHQWXUH7UDYHO 5HVSRQVLEOH   7RXULVP&RQIHUHQFHDQG0DUW 11-13 Mumbai IITT AUGUST 12 New Delhi 8 ,5RDGVKRZ 15 Pune 8 ,5RDGVKRZ MARCH National 15-17 Nagpur GPS National 2-4 Kolkata GPS 16 Mumbai 8 ,5RDGVKRZ 9-11 Kochi GPS 16-18 Goa India Travel Mart (ITM) 16 Kochi ITM B2B Event, Tourism Australia 17 Mumbai JNTO B2B Trade Seminar International 17 Kolkata ITM B2B Event, Tourism Australia 18-20 Mumbai OTM 18 Goa ITM B2B Event, Tourism Australia 7-11 Berlin, Germany ITB 18-19 Kolkata Destination East 20 Mumbai ITM B2B Event, Tourism Australia 13-15 Moscow, Russia MITT 19-21 Ranchi Jharkhand Travel Mart 23-25 Pune GPS 18-20 Brisbane, Australia Routes Asia 27-29 Nagpur India International Travel Exhibition (IITE) 20-22 Kiev, Ukraine UITT 29 Mumbai Dusit International Roadshow SEPTEMBER 20-22 Shanghai, China ,7 &0DQG&7:&KLQD 29 Chennai Philippines Business Mission 21-23 Mexico *%7$&RQIHUHQFH National 30 Bengaluru Dusit International Roadshow 7-9 Ahmedabad TTF 30 Chennai Tourism Events Queensland 14-16 Surat TTF 30 New Delhi JNTO B2B Trade Seminar APRIL 25 New Delhi GNTO B2B Roadshow 26 Bengaluru GNTO B2B Roadshow 30- Mumbai &$3$,QGLD$YLDWLRQ6XPPLW National Feb 1 27-30 Kochi Kerala Travel Mart 4-5 Mumbai+,&6$ 31 Bengaluru Tourism Events Queensland 28 Mumbai GNTO B2B Roadshow 7-8 Delhi TTF 28-30 Pune TTF 31 Delhi SATTE 7-8 Jaipur Travel Luxury Show Feb 2 International 19-20 Gurugram Phocuswright India International 4-6 Florida, USA/D&LWD 22-24 Jaipur Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB) 17-21 Madrid, Spain FITUR 12-14 Langkawi, Malaysia PATA Travel Mart International 19-22 Helsinki, Finland MATKA, Nordic Travel Fair 18-20 Bangkok, Thailand ,7 &0$ &7:$VLD3DFLÀF 5-7 Baku, Azerbaijan AITF 22-26 Chiang Mai, Thailand ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 20-23 Tokyo, Japan JATA Tourism Expo 2018 5-7 Dhaka, Bangladesh Dhaka Travel Mart 25-28 Istanbul, Turkey EMITT 25-28 Paris, France IFTM Top Resa 12-14 Novosibirsk, Russia SITT 26-28 Kazakhastan Astana Leisure 15-17 Cape Town, ILTM Africa FEBRUARY South Africa 15-19 Adelaide, Australia Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) OCTOBER National 16-18 Beijing, China COTTM National 2 Hyderabad Tourism Events Queensland 17-19 Singapore 'LJLWDO7UDYHO6XPPLW $3$& 30 New Delhi Scandinavian Tourist Board Roadshow 3-5 Chennai India Travel Mart (ITM) 18-19 Buenos Aires, :77&*OREDO6XPPLW 5-6 Mumbai ANTO B2B Workshop 31 Bengaluru Scandinavian Tourist Board Roadshow Argentina 7 Bengaluru ANTO B2B Workshop International 18-20 Almaty, Kazakhastan KITF 8-9 New Delhi ANTO B2B Workshop 17-19 Singapore ITB Asia 22-23 Dubai, UAE ILTM Arabia 8-11 Hyderabad GPS 31- Shanghai, China ,/70&KLQD 9-11 Ahmedabad India Travel Mart (ITM) 22-25 Dubai, UAE Arabian Travel Mart (ATM) Nov 2 9-12 Mysore Mysore Travel Mart 10-12 Italy TTG Incontri 12-13 Mumbai South African Tourism Roadshow MAY 14 Kolkata South African Tourism Roadshow NOVEMBER 15 Bengaluru South African Tourism Roadshow International 16 Delhi South African Tourism Roadshow 6-8 Adelaide, Australia $QQXDO0HHWLQJV (YHQWV,QGXVWU\ National 16-18 Chennai TTF   &RQIHUHQFH 1 Mumbai Scandinavian Tourist Board Roadshow 19 Ahmedabad South African Tourism Roadshow 6-8 Dresden, Germany Germany Travel Mart (GTM) International 20 Pune Tourism Events Queensland 7-10 Dunedin, NZ TRENZ 5-7 London, UK WTM 21 Mumbai ENIT Italy B2B Roadshow 8-10 Durban, South Africa INDABA 28-30 Khon Kaen, Thailand PATA Destination Marketing Forum 22 Ahmedabad Tourism Events Queensland 8-11 Sao Paulo, Brazil ILTM Latin America 23 Kolkata ENIT Italy B2B Roadshow 15-17 Frankfurt, Germany IMEX DECEMBER 23-25 Kolkata India International Travel Mart (IITM) 15-17 Amsterdam, Phocuswright Europe 23-25 Bengaluru TTF Netherlands National 16-18 Shanghai, China ,7%&KLQD 26 Delhi ENIT Italy B2B Roadshow 1-2 Hyderabad Travel Business Show 17-20 Gangnueng, Korea PATA Annual Summit 2018 28- Bengaluru Karnataka Travel Mart International Mar-02 21-24 Singapore ,/70$VLD3DFLÀF 3-6 Cannes, France ,/70&DQQHV

For more details, contact: [email protected] The dates shown on the annual event calendar are subject to change. Please refer to Event Talk in TravTalk to track the changes in dates CLIPBOARD JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 27 28 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 MOVEMENTS Park Hyatt Chennai The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat Hyatt Hotels Chennai Kolkata Gurugram Vishal Mehra takes over as the new General Manager of Park Hyatt Vikram Singh Chauhan joins The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat as the Hyatt Hotels has appointed Sunjae Sharma as Vice President &KHQQDL:LWKRYHU\HDUVRIH[SHULHQFHLQWKHLQGXVWU\DQGHLJKW *HQHUDO 0DQDJHU ,Q KLV FXUUHQW UROH &KDXKDQ ZLOO PDQDJH WKH of Operations for India. A seasoned hospitality professional, hotel openings, Mehra has worked at leading RSHUDWLRQV DQG ZLOO EH UHVSRQVLEOH IRU WKH SURÀWDELOLW\ Sharma will lead Hyatt’s India operations brands like Burj Al Arab, Grand Hyatt Dubai, guest experience and strategic initiatives for and will be responsible for executing +\DWW 5HJHQF\ 'XVKDQEH +\DWW &DSLWDO the hotel. He will also work with the Westin’s the company's operational and growth Gate, Abu Dhabi, Park Hyatt Hadahaa; global and regional brand teams at Starwood strategy in his new role. He will and Hyatt Place Dubai. Experiences like +RWHOV  5HVRUWV LQ WKH GHYHORSPHQW DQG assume his new position at Hyatt's the quick turnaround, offering extreme implementation of brand standards in Gurugram headquarters. Prior to this OX[XU\ ÀQGLQJ FRQVWDQW ZD\V WR LQQRYDWH operations and service. With a career appointment, Sharma was the Area Vice experiences, maximising employee talent, VSDQQLQJ  \HDUV &KDXKDQ KDV ZRUNHG 3UHVLGHQW IRU 6RXWK  :HVW ,QGLD DQG ensuring that the team loves what they across six countries. General Manager of Grand Hyatt Mumbai, do and contributing towards making these where he oversaw the strategic and hotels a success story are his most ÀQDQFLDO SHUIRUPDQFH RI ÁDWWHULQJDFKLHYHPHQWV 16 hotels.

VisitBritain Destination Queenstown SOTC Mumbai New Zealand Mumbai Vishal BhatiaKDVEHHQSURPRWHGWR&RXQWU\0DQDJHU²,QGLD+H Destination Queenstown (DQ) has appointed Kiran Nambiar as the Vimmi Deshpande has been designated as General Manager–Trade has been working with VisitBritain since February 2013 when new Business Development Director. Nambiar has over 20 years UHODWLRQV LQ 7RXU 2SHUDWLQJ GLYLVLRQ DW 627& ,Q KHU FXUUHQW UROH he started out as the Deputy Manager and of experience in the tourism and travel industry. Deshpande will lead the end-to-end functioning subsequently as B2B Manager. He was Nambiar will oversee all channel sales and RIWKH7UDGH5HODWLRQVGHSDUWPHQWDW627& ,QWHULP &RXQWU\ 0DQDJHU IURP -XQH trade marketing activity including domestic She comes with an experience of over 21 December 2016. He has been integral in and international travel trade, industry years in travel trade. Deshpande has delivering the India strategy, while leading SDUWQHUVKLSV EXVLQHVV HYHQWV & ,  DQG previously managed a wide array of on all B2B activities in market. Bhatia has study. He has held senior positions as Vice roles at Kuoni Travel which extended extensive market knowledge and expertise 3UHVLGHQW DQG &RXQWU\ 0DQDJHU 8QLWHG from being a Branch Manager – Leisure of the local travel landscape. In this role, 6WDWHVZLWK&R[DQG.LQJV*URXS+HKDVDOVR Sales to being General Manager for Bhatia will be taking on the day-to-day recently completed an MBA from Rotman Do-It-Yourself Holidays and Kuoni aspects of VisitBritain’s operations in India. 6FKRRO RI 0DQDJHPHQW 8QLYHUVLW\ RI /X[XU\ 6KH MRLQV 627& IURP 7RURQWR&DQDGD Writer Business Services, where she served as Head - 5HORFDWLRQV  ,PPLJUDWLRQ Services, India.

Grand Hyatt Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport StayWell Hospitality Group Mumbai Mumbai Delhi Roshan Rajpal has joined Grand Hyatt Mumbai as Hotel Deepak Sampath joins Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport as StayWell Hospitality Group named Vivek Singh as its Regional Manager. Rajpal, a graduate in Humanities has over 20 years of Rooms Division Manager. Sampath brings aboard over 16 years of Revenue Optimisation Manager. He will be responsible for the overall experience across global hospitality brands H[SHULHQFH LQ KLV ÀHOG ,Q KLV QHZ UROH KH ZLOO revenue management of the group with key focus on OLNH &URZQH 3OD]D &DUOVRQ 5H]LGRU DQG be responsible for securing a consistent generating maximum revenues. He will be AccorHotels in various challenging roles high guest feedback rating by putting in actively involved in short and long-term and responsibilities. Her last assignment measures that include training the team, planning and preparation of the marketing was as Hotel Manager at Ibis Bengaluru guest relations management and repeat strategies, hotel policies, procedures, relevant before joining Grand Hyatt Mumbai. guest business through loyalty program legislations and the annual budget. Singh Rajpal brings her operations, sales and enrolments. His responsibilities also include brings with him an experience of over 11 marketing and business development administering internal expense control \HDUVLQKRVSLWDOLW\LQGXVWU\+HLVSURÀFLHQW acumen as well as the zeal to PHDVXUHVWRHQVXUHKLJKHUSURÀWDELOLW\RIWKH in revenue management with both national create moments of more not division. Prior to this, Deepak has worked and international brands. He has just for their guests but also for LQ ÀYHVWDU KRWHO RSHUDWLRQV ZLWK earlier been associated with their associates. The Park (Bangalore), Ista Hotels, global brands like Hyatt, IHG, Hyatt Bangalore and Radisson Starwood, AccorHotels, %OX0DKDEDOLSXUDP&KHQQDL Marriott, to name a few.

Mohit Batra, Representative–India, Scandinavian Sharad Dutta, General Manager, The Westin Mumbai Narendra Prabhu*HQHUDO0DQDJHU6LJQDWXUH&OXE Tourist Board, is a fond golfer. He loves to enjoy his *DUGHQ &LW\ KDV D IHZ ZD\V WKDW KH GHVWUHVVHV ´, Resort, loves to spend time with his family and that peace and quiet in his free time. Lofoten, Bornholm love spending time with my three-year-old daughter. includes movie nights. "To de-stress, I play sports and Visby are three destinations Batra wishes to Going for a swim, watching movies and playing guitar after a day's hard work. My work is one thing I am see within Scandinavia. However, are also ways I unwind. I am extremely passionate about and Japan, Peru and Ecuador are also passionate about golf and care for deeply," he says. destinations on his bucket list. look for every opportunity to One of his most memorable “Scandinavia is very close to play,” he says. Dutta enjoys holidays is one at my heart but apart from that, travelling and his most Madhumalai, with his team I love Austria, Lebanon and the memorable vacation was the DW 6LJQDWXUH &OXE 5HVRUW 8. DQG ORYH WR UHYLVLW WKHP ÀUVW KROLGD\ KH WRRN ZLWK KLV "We went bird watching and The newer generation entering daughter at a beach destination. trekking through the thick the travel fraternity should not “It was a treat for us to watch forest at night. Ooty is look for shortcuts. You her enjoy playing one destination have to know in the sand. In that is in your products India, I prefer WKHWRSÀYH well and be Srinagar and vacation passionate internationally, spots for about the it has to be me." industry,” Barcelona,” says Batra. he adds.

Concrete foundation for students Former Managing Director and Regional Vice President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, South Asia and industry veteran, Dilip Puri, has announced his new education venture – Indian School of Hospitality (ISH), with a promise to reimagine hospitality education in India.

KANCHAN NATH

How are you going We are preparing students to enter hospitality and allied indus- Qto bridge the gap tries through the management cadre of the country. between supply and I think hotels need to take responsibility for the demand of talent in the industry? education of students, when they are on these Firstly, we are not looking industrial training and internship programmes. to meet the scarcity of talent where we are promising to Dilip Puri provide 80,000 students. We Former Managing Director and Regional Vice President are very clear we are an insti- of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, South Asia tution of higher learning to de- velop management talent for the industry. I am not into skill development, at least not at this stage. We are preparing of the order to India, so that and knew the market better. this is that it is these students students to enter hospitality the programme is afford- We are getting huge amount who are the brand ambassa- and allied industries through able, yet provides the same of value addition from them. dors of the institute. They are the management cadre of value and quality in terms of the ones who will sell ISH in the country. My sense is that leadership development. Is quality over the future. that we will not be catering Qquantity something to just the hotel industry. We What was the idea you believe in? What role are the expect companies to recruit Qbehind choosing Yes, I do. We have kept Qpanelists going to for retail, aviation, fashion, École hôtelière de our recruitment number so play at ISH? luxury, FMCG, banking, and Lausanne as a partner? small that we cannot afford They will play various financial services. These are ISH envisions its cur- a student who doesn’t meet roles, including providing companies that recruit from riculum design to be a global the criteria. Our own selection mentorship to our students. international hotel schools. I benchmark of hospitality edu- criteria of profiling a student We believe that every stu- want to make sure they come cation in the near future and before taking him/her into the dent should have an indus- and recruit from ISH as well. I in order to do so, has entered college clearly suggests that try mentor. The panellists am not looking to fill the gap into a strategic partnership quality is way more important will also provide internship in hotels, and I think hotels with Lausanne Hospitality for us. One simple reason for and placement opportuni- ties, and their executive and senior managers will be the faculty at ISH.

Fact File The ISH campus is under development and will be ready by May 2018, in time for the maiden batch of students in August 2018 Location: Sector 83, Gurgaon Fee Structure: `5.5 lakhs per annum. If one opts for accommodation there is an incremental cost of `10,000 per month have started to realise that Consulting (LHC) for curricu- they have to look beyond lum development and faculty the hotel institutes to recruit. training. ISH has partnered The courses on offer For the last three years, they with LHC in preparation for The core academic programmes being offered at ISH have been going to colleges an academic certification by are a four-year hospitality management programme and and recruiting. By following École hôtelière de Lausanne a four-year programme in culinary arts. The education this practice, we are not limit- (EHL), the world’s oldest and structure at ISH is aimed at providing the ideal founda- ing ourselves to hiring people top-ranked hospitality man- tion for managerial and leadership development, strategic from hotel institutes alone. agement higher education thinking- leveraging both macro and micro perspectives, institution. In addition to the as well as building emotional and intellectual intelligence. Today, Cornell does a four-year hospitality manage- Beside the core academic programmes, ISH will also 10-day General Manager’s ment programme, ISH will offer various short-term programmes in culinary speciali- programme. If you do the pro- offer several long and short- sations as well as a whole range of executive education gramme, that’s a great lead- term programmes in both culi- programmes catering to professionals in hospitality, trav- ership development for you. nary and executive education. el, aviation, retail and other customer-focused industries. We want to bring that kind of education to India. We have When I was looking for ISH has received the Letter of Intent from the Depart- three verticals at ISH, one is options for a good academic ment of Higher Education, Government of Haryana, to Hospitality Management and partner who understood set up a self-financing degree college affiliated to a state the other two are Culinary our market, they were right university. Education and Executive there. Lausanne Hospitality The institute’s Advisory Council comprises leaders Education. In Executive Edu- Consulting’s CEO, Yateendra from hospitality and other service sectors, who will provide cation, for instance, instead Sinh, is of Indian origin and strategic inputs, guidance, and mentorship to the faculty of following a Harvard or Cor- has worked here in the past and students, as well as support ISH in terms of internship nell executive programme, with Oberoi Hotels. He under- and placement opportunities in India and overseas. we want to bring something stood the opportunities well

Postal Reg. No.: DL(ND)-11/6044/2018-19-20; WPP No.: U(C)-178/2018-20 for posting on 1st-2nd and 16th-17th of the same month at NDHO, New Delhi - 110001, RNI No.: 53492/1991 Date of Publication: 30-12-2017 Supplement of TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018

India A DDP PUBLICATION

Pages: 16

1st

ALPHONS KANNANTHANAM Minister of State (I/C) for Tourism and Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India 2 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 3

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

he MICE industry in India is a prominent segment of the booming tourism and hospitality industry. Seen as a T lucrative arm that incoporates the meetings, incentives, conferences and events, the sector is a perfect amalgamation of exhibiting trends, infrastructure and packages for MICE groups in the tourism industry. As a tribute, India MICE Awards recognises the achievers of the MICE and the tourism industry, who have worked steadfastly towards enhancing the environment to allow the growth of the MICE wing in the country. Our topmost honour, the Gold Maya, is awarded to those stalwarts who have shaped the industry to the way it is today and created innovative ways and products to take this sector a notch higher. We also honour young guns who are paving the way forward for the industry with their innovative thinking and proactiveness. At the black-tie, Silver Service event, various performers enthral and amuse the audience. The first edition of India MICE Awards in Delhi ensures the beginning of a new journey of long- term associations. India MICE Awards will be travelling to various other cities in India in its subsequent editions. Thus we take it upon ourselves, in our own small way, to revive and enhance MICE in India and award these who are taking this industry to a greater height. SanJeet

India MICE Awards

Vikramajit MARKETING PRODUCTION All information in India MICE Awards is without prior written permission. unsolicited material nor is he MUMBAI: derived from sources, which we consider The same rule applies when there is responsible for material lost 504, Marine Chambers, 43, New Marine Lines, CHAIRMAN Gunjan Sabikhi Anil Kharbanda reliable. Information is passed on to our a copyright or the article is taken from or damaged in transit. Any Opp. SNDT College, Amit Bhasin readers without any responsibility on our another publication. Publications material submitted to India MICE Mumbai - 400 020, India, part. The contents of this publication reproducing material either in part or Awards will not be returned. Ph.: +91-22-22070129; 22070130 SanJeet Seema Datt CIRCULATION contain views of authors and are not the in whole, without permission would The publisher reserves the rights MIDDLE EAST: EDITOR & PUBLISHER Sonia Butalia Ashok Rana views of DDP Publications. face legal action. to refuse, withdraw, amend Durga Das Publications Middle East (FZE) Abhinav Goswami or otherwise deal with all Z1-02, PO Box: 9348, Saif Zone, Sharjah, UAE Jaspreet Kaur Similarly, opinions/views expressed Editorial enquiries and enquiries advertisements without explanation. Ph.:+971-6-5528954, Fax: +971-6-5528956 EDITORIAL by any party in abstract and/or in concerning the reproduction of All advertisements must comply INDIA MICE AWARDS interviews are not necessarily shared/ articles should be emailed to talk@ with the Indian Advertisements is printed, published and Peden Doma Bhutia edited by SanJeet on behalf of DESIGN do not necessarily reflect any opinion ddppl.com, advertising and circulation Code as well as the Advertisements Devika Jeet of DDP Publications. All rights reserved enquiries should be e-mailed to Code of South Asia. The publisher Durga Das Publications Pvt. Ltd., printed will not be liable for any damage or at Cirrus Graphics Pvt. Ltd., Kanchan Nath Nityanand Misra throughout the world. Reproduction [email protected]. strictly prohibited. Material appearing loss caused by the late publication, B-61, Sector-67, Noida, (U.P.) 201 301 and published at Shivani Kaul Vikas Mandotia in India MICE Awards cannot be The publisher assumes no error or failure or advertisement or 72, Todarmal Road, New Delhi - 110 001 reproduced in whole or in part responsibility for returning editorial to appear. Amrita Ghosh Nitin Kumar Ph.:+91-11-23344179 4 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018

India MICE Awards debuts in Delhi A first-of-its-kind, India MICE Awards, made its debut at The Lalit New Delhi on November 27, 2017. The award ceremony, which had the Tourism Minister Alphons Kannanthanam and Tourism Joint Secretary, Suman Billa as the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour respectively, left no stone unturned in keeping the guests engaged and entertained throughout the evening.

Kanchan Nath serious business. This sector brings in said, “The objective is to have a he delightful awards ceremony people and creates jobs - a mandate comprehensive website which will be Thighlighted the growing for the development of the tourism useful to the traveller. Also, we are importance of the Meetings, Incentive, industry.” The Ministry of Tourism is coming up with a new website that Conferences and Exhibitions focused in its approach to the tourism would show India comprehensively to (MICE) sector. Gracing the evening and hospitality sector and is willing the travellers. It will be in user-friendly as Chief Guest was Alphons to undertake initiatives that will help languages, formats, fonts, etc. Travellers Kannanthanam, Minister of State broaden its spectrum. Elaborating on who wish to know more about the (I/C) for Tourism and Minister of State, this, Kannanthanam said, “We will be country shall witness a seamless Ministry of Electronics and Information coming out with a tourism policy in experience through the website.” Technology, Government of India. In 2018; it has to go to the cabinet for his address to the audience, he said, the approval, we are in the process SanJeet, Mentor, India MICE Awards, “The MICE sector creates a lot of of drafting and finalising that. The said, “We are glad to create an employment and at the end of the day whole objective is to create the right all-India platform to recognise those as a tourism minister, I am concerned infrastructure, milieu for people to visit behind the success of the MICE about employment generation; this our country and for Indians to travel industry and to make them feel like sector does both. Since hospitality around. The idea is to make it a happy achievers. We are happy and proud to plays such an important role, we experience for them.” announce the India MICE Awards as have to go out of our way to promote an exclusive one-of-its-kind event. The such functions. Also, MICE attracts Informing on the soon-to-be launched award ceremony will be people who are interested in doing website of Incredible India, the minister held annually.” TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 5

Chief Guest ALPHONS KANNANTHANAM he Chief Guest of the glittering awards, Alphons Kannanthanam, Minister of State (I/C) for Tourism and Minister of State, Ministry of Electronics and TInformation Technology, Government of India, expresses, “Initiatives like India MICE Awards are great because this is one sector which showcases tremendous potential. It results in long-stay guests and occupied hotel rooms. Therefore, we need to focus on how to bring in more of MICE into the country, because they are huge money spinners.”

Alphons Kannanthanam, Minister of State (I/C) for Tourism and Minister of State, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India, recieved the award for Chief Guest and was felicitated by SanJeet, Mentor, India MICE Awards; Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson and Managing Director, Bharat Hotels and Suman Billa, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. 6 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018

Guest of Honour  SUMAN BILLA ourism policies and procedures are undergoing continuous change. Speaking about the induction of single-window clearance Tfor group visa in the new tourism policy, Guest of Honour, Suman Billa, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, says, “We are still in talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs because even though we have e-Visa, it does not apply to conferences. Firstly, we want to electronically upgrade the conference visa, secondly, we want to initiate group clearance for conferences.” “We want to harness the growth of the MICE industry. We want to set up convention promotion bureaus at various destinations and at state levels. We also want the ICPB board to become the mother body,” concludes Billa, while speaking about the potential of the MICE industry and how it can be made competitive.

Suman Billa, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, received the award for Guest of Honour and was felicitated by Team, India MICE Awards. TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 7

Gallery of Legends AMAN NATH wards received, should impel one to work and grow even more, feels Aman Nath, Founder and AChairman, Neemrana Hotels. He further says, “We at Neemrana are passionate about what we do. We want to be in every state and touch every ruin. We want to bring employment and empower people, that’s our aim.” Elaborating on the awards, he says, “I receive this award in humility. I think that in the journey of karma, an award is just a milestone, it’s not the destination, because you never know how far you are going to travel. Receiving an award should not be an impediment and one should try and achieve more. The journey is continuous.”

Aman Nath, Founder and Chairman, Neemrana Hotels, received the award for Gallery of Legends

DDP Game Changer SUNIL GHADIOK ommenting on the awards’ evening, Sunil Ghadiok, Chief Executive Officer, Nidra Hospitality (a part Cof Shanti Hospitality Group), says, “I think DDP puts in a huge amount of effort, which is commendable. I think it’s a huge process in selecting the right and the most deserving people. To reward them is a great encouragement, not only for all the players in the industry, but also the people who have put in effort into making what MICE is in India today.”

Sunil Ghadiok, Chief Executive Officer, Nidra Hospitality, received the award for DDP Game Changer

DDP Trailblazer  HIMMAT ANAND e left the corporate world to pursue his decade old dream of creating a hospitality brand. Himmat HAnand, Founder, The Tree of Life Resorts & Hotels, shares, “The awards, which begun a few years ago are an amazing success story. The fact that you have taken it pan India and diversified it to not just tourism and travel, but other segments as well. The awards recognises the best of the best. I wish the team all the best.”

Himmat Anand, Founder, The Tree of Life Resorts & Hotels, received the award for DDP Trailblazer 8 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018

Guest of Honour  MARISHA KAUL arisha Kaul, Gladrags Mrs. India–North 2017, expresses, "It was indeed a pleasure being present Mat the India MICE awards as the guest of honour. Kudos to the organisers for taking up the initiative to recognise, honour and encourage all those behind the success of this industry and organising the event so well. I feel a prestigious recognition of this kind will stimulate much more talent in the years to come."

Dr. Marisha Kaul, Gladrags Mrs. India–North 2017 being honoured with Pearl Trophy ‘Maya’ for her support to India MICE Awards

Best MICE Hotel CROWNE PLAZA, GREATER NOIDA rowne Plaza Greater Noida boasts of being more than just a hotel, with the most versatile meeting Cspaces, including indoor and outdoor options, magnificent and functional venues, personalised service and exceptional food. They are always “one step ahead”, says Greesh Bindra, Regional General Manager, North & West India IHG and General Manager Crowne Plaza Greater Noida. "Winning this award is like a testament of our claim to be the most preferred international hotel brand for business, events and celebrations. The inaugural edition of the India MICE Awards was truly grandeur as it brought the entire hospitality industry together," he adds.

The award was given to Crowne Plaza, Greater Noida and received by Nivesh Bhagtani, Duty Manager and Greesh Bindra, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida

Best Experiential MICE Agent BLUE MOON TRAVELS tating that MICE is the only way to grow in this competitive trade, Vijay Dadhich, Managing Director, SBlue Moon Travels, says, “We believe we need to raise our bar. For MICE, we have done all shapes and sizes of people. We have been the official travel partner for IFFA for the past 10 years. We have done MICE from Las Vegas, to Europe to Asia, all the way to Australia, and within India. We have always been looking for an experiential journey for our customers. The awards ceremony was wonderfully executed. SanJeet always felicitates people who do good work in the industry.”

The award was given to Blue Moon Travels and received by Sachin Varma, Manager, Business Development and Vijay Dadhich, Managing Director TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 9

Best Organizer of Conferences - DomesticICE GROUP INDIA hrilled to have received their first award, Disha Shah, Director, ice Group India, expresses, “It was a good evening and a well Torganised event. We are very thrilled to have received this award. We will keep doing the hard work and hope to be here again next year. It was the first MICE awards and I must compliment the organisers.”

The award was given to ice Group India and received by Disha Shah, Director and Mohit Khanna, Managing Director

Best Business HotelCROWNE PLAZA NEW DELHI MAYUR VIHAR he hotel is at a short distance of 20 minutes from the commercial hub of Noida. The destination provides an excellent base for guests Ttravelling to key business districts such as Mohan Cooperative Industrial Area, Jasola and Nehru Place. Corporate travellers can appreciate amenities including the 24-hour business centre with free high-speed internet access.

The award was given to Crowne Plaza New Delhi Mayur Vihar and received by Vikas Oswal, General Manager and Veenu Rastogi, Area Director - Sales & Marketing, North & West India

Best MICE Operator - Domestic COX & KINGS e it a business executive, a frontline salesman, a neighbourhood retailer or a business agent, there are a few things that drives one Bto perform at their peak. Cox and Kings ensures its customers some extraordinary offerings that exhibits excellence. The company surpassed its performance to win the recognition of Best MICE Operator - Domestic at the India MICE Awards.

The award was given to Cox & Kings and received by Nagender Panwar, Head Operations

Leading MICE Company  CONCEPT CONFERENCES rateful to his team for their contribution, Ashish Jagota, Executive Director, Concept Conferences, says, “It’s amazing to receive Gthis award. It’s not just an award but a responsibility to go on. I am thankful to my team for getting us to this platform. These awards are a good appreciation for our clients who we work with. It’s a good recognition in the industry.”

The award was given to Concept Conferences and received by Executive Directors, Venessa Williams and Ashish Jagota 10 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018

Best MICE Travel Agency of the Year  TED TRAVEL & EXPERIENCES tating that the event goes a long way in promoting the industry, Manoj Raina, Domestic Operation – Head, Ted Travel & SExperiences, shares, “This is a good event, we should do such programmes often, just to promote our industry. We are just a two-and- a-half-year-old company and have been doing good business, domestic as well as international. We have achieved a 100 crore business in the last two years.”

The award was given to Ted Travel & Experiences and received by Aakash Tufchi, Manager Sales, Manoj Raina, Domestic Operation - Head

Best MICE Destination NBTC HOLLAND TOURISM ooja Sabharwal, Account Director, Destination Holland - India, says, “It is such a proud moment for NBTC Holland Tourism to Preceive the award for Best MICE destination. Year 2017 was a great year for Holland not only with respect to leisure tourism, but also with respect to being pitched as a top European destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and events. Being the proud recipient of ‘Maya’ was possible due to the continued commitment of our travel partners to promote the MICE facilities in Holland amongst Indians.”

The award was given to NBTC Holland Tourism and received by Pooja Sabharwal Account Director and Team

Best MICE Start-up TENTH PLANET GROUP enth Planet Group is a leading digital technology company from Mumbai. Shivdutt Das, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, TTenth Planet Group, on receiving the accolade says, “We have been nominated because we are one of the most promising start-ups today and are working a lot in the digital space. The kind of footprints we have created in the past one year is remarkable and that’s what brought us here." Expressing on the ceremony, he said, "I think the ceremony has opened a door of opportunities. The recognition makes us more responsible towards our customers.”

The award was given to Tenth Planet Group and received by Shivdutt Das, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder

Best Customized Tour Operator  MYUZ HOLIDAYS ncouragement through awards can be a great motivating factor, feels Ripos Das, Managing Director, Myuz Holidays. He further shares, “This is the first time for Eus and its very special. For the last seven years we are delivering in the service industry. The accolade is amazing and encourages us to provide better services to customers. We are further motivated to improve our services.”

The award was given to MYUZ Holidays and received by Ripos Das, Managing Director TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 11

Best MICE Resort - 4 Star  POOVAR ISLAND RESORT nspoilt and unexplored, enveloped by the most serene backwaters, and opening out to the Arabian Sea, Poovar Island Resort is truly Ua window into paradise. Built on 25 acres of lush green coconut gardens alongside the beach, the resort comprises of elegant land based superior rooms, and is unique for the floating cottages and villas. Located 30 kms from Trivandrum International Airport, the resort is accessible only by a 10-minute boat ride on the river.

The award was given to Poovar Island Resort and received by S. Jaykumar, General Manager (extreme right)

Best Emerging MICE Travel Agency MADRAS TRAVELS & TOURS rivileged and excited to have won the recognition, Vatsala Subramanian, COO, Madras Travels & Tours, Chennai, says, “I am Pfeeling highly energised, motivated and encouraged after receiving this award. In the last six to eight months, we have done quite a few groups, ranging group size from 35 to 300 to various destinations, due to which we were nominated. I think it’s a wonderful initiative. We are thankful to DDP publication. It not only encourages and motivates us, it’s a milestone and we hope to cross many more year-after year.”

The award was given to Madras Travels & Tours and received by Vatsala Subramanian, Chief Operating Officer

Best Conference Venue  18.99 LATITUDE BANQUETS lated to witness MICE being recognised through this one-of-a- kind platform, Shantanu Wagle, Regional Sales Head - West, E18.99 Latitude Banquets, says, “We are a one-year-old organisation based in Mumbai, which is blessed with an ideal location, completely suited for the discerning corporate and social requirements. It is pleasing to see that MICE category is being recognised on such platform. We are witnessing collaboration with all kinds of players. I think the future is very exciting for the industry and such gatherings will only encourage the industry to grow swiftly.”

The award was given to 18.99 Latitude Banquets and received by Rajneesh Wakhloo, Regional Sales Head - North and Shantanu Wagle, Regional Sales Head - West

Fastest Growing MICE Travel Agency  FRONTIER HOLIDAYS ward functions always excite everyone because of the appreciation for the hard work that is put in. When it is organised as well as Athe India MICE Awards, it is a great to participate in them, says Bharathi Shetty, MD & CEO, Frontier Holidays. "This award has set a higher benchmark for us, as a team to deliver more. We wish to bring the hidden treasures, well informed and ever demanding traveller needs. We at Frontier always believe in being a go getter and for us the sky is the limit," adds Shetty.

The award was given to Frontier Holidays 12 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018

Best Meetings and Conventions Hotel  LULU INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER & GARDEN HOTELS wards empower those who work behind the scenes, constantly contributing to a company’s success, shares Jose Sebastian, AGeneral Manager, Lulu International Convention Center & Garden Hotels. He says, “These awards are important for the companies who exhibit their performance at the national level.”

The award was given to Lulu International Convention Center & Garden Hotels and received by Reji Mathew, Assistant General Manager and Jose Sebastian, General Manager

Best Event Organizer  WIZARD EVENTS & CONFERENCES rom one of the leading MICE agencies in the fraternity, Kapil Arora, Director- Sales & Operations, Wizard Events & Conferences, Fon receiving accolades shares, “It’s a good initiative and MICE itself is a very big industry, so, it needs to be differentiated. It was a good initiative by DDP. The awards showcased good players who are helping to grow this industry well.”

The award was given to Wizard Events & Conferences and received by Kapil Arora, Director- Sales & Operations

Best Convention & Exhibition Centre  CLARKS EXOTICA CONVENTION RESORT AND SPA he glittering ceremony saw exceptional work being recognised on an industry platform. Varun Sharma, Director - Food & Beverage, TClarks Exotica Convention Resort and Spa, shares, “The event was organised “flawlessly”. This platform aims in developing innovative, creative hoteliers who stand the chance to become global players.”

The award was given to Clarks Exotica Convention Resort And Spa and received by Varun Sharma, Director - Food & Beverage and Ramachandra Bhat, Director - Finance

Best MICE Concepts EPIC INDIA TOURS & EVENTS pic India Tours and Travels believe that their faith in ‘Hard Work comes with a price, Work Smart’ culture gets them closer to Eperfection everyday. Pankaj Malhotra, Director, Epic India Tours & Events, shares, “India MICE Awards was a well organised and very professional curated event along with the element of wit, which took it to a different level."

The award was given to Epic India Tours & Events and received by Pankaj Malhotra, Group Head, Rahul Dham, Associate Director - MICE Operations, Nupur Sood, Director, Kapil Dev Chhawary, Assistant Manager - MICE Operations

Best Debut Hotel - MICE  EFCEE SAROVAR PORTICO, BHAVNAGAR he awards give you a benchmark to improve yourself further, feels Komalkant Sharma, Chairman & Managing Director, Efcee TSarovar Portico, Bhavnagar. He further states, “We are from Leela group of companies, primarily into ship breaking and construction. It’s our maiden property and a year has been completed. These awards for sure are motivational. Also, it generated a good networking platform for newcomers like us.”

The award was given to Efcee Sarovar Portico, Bhavnagar and received by Komalkant Sharma, Chairman & Managing Director TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 13

Best Organizer of Conferences - International PARRY TRAVELS well organised event can be a pleasure for all to attend. Talking about recognition through the awards, Laxmi Angara, BU Head, Parry Travels, says, “We are A more specialised in international exhibitions and annual conferences, more of MICE events. We also do trade shows, buyer-seller meets. The evening was very well organised, the flow of the event was awesome. We are proud to receive the award."

The award was given to Parry Travels and received by Laxmi Angara, BU Head

Best Hotel and Event Facilities  UDAY SAMUDRA LEISURE BEACH HOTEL & SPA DS located at the famed beaches of Kovalam, just 15 meters from the sea, is an exclusive 5 Star leisure beach hotel - a destination by itself. The setting, facilities, Upeople, spa, cuisine and its whole philosophy is dedicated to one's personal wellness in a luxurious environment. The landscaping has its own serenity, a harmony of a defined architecture, spacious lawns, blue water pools and soaring coconut grooves all set in four tranquil acres by the sea.

The award was given to Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel & Spa and received by Raja Gopaal Iyer, CEO

Best Destination Management Company STHI HOLIDAYS INDIA he Leaf Holidays has been established by a group of experienced professionals with a deep knowledge of the hospitality industry, Tspearheaded by finest individuals from the trades of the hotel/ travel industry. The team guarantees the best services at all times. The Leaf Holidays Singapore has its branch office in Malaysia, Dubai and India.

The award was given to STHI Holidays India and received by Krishan Gupta, CFO and Vinil Kumar, IT and Admin Head

Best Conference Hotel  CROWNE PLAZA NEW DELHI ROHINI ining the accolade highlights our dedication towards the services and facilities that we provide to our guests, says WSarad Upadhyay, General Manager, Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini. "We direct our efforts towards making each guest feel at home and ensure that they enjoy their time with us. We aim to work hard and look forward to achieving many more," he adds.

The award was given to Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini and received by Srishti S. Narula, AM - PR & Marketing and Sarad Upadhyay, General Manager

Best Strategic Business Unit  PACIFIC WORLD e received the recognition due to the kind of work we have done in the MICE business,” says Naveen Rizvi, Regional Director India & Indian “WOcean, Pacific World. He added, “I think receiving the award will help us take the company forward. This will add credibility to our business.”

The award was given to 3DFLÀF :RUOG and received by Naveen Rizvi, Regional Director India & Indian Ocean 14 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018

Best Organizer for Incentive Programme HI WALK TRAVELS ajesh Gupta, Founder, Hi Walk Travels, while receiving the award shared that it was Hi Walk’s ability to display creativity and imagination, while Rservicing its incentive clients, which was the key reason for garnering the prestigious recognition. Apart from thanking clients, he says, “DDP did a fantastic job, the event was extremely well structured and precise. The award reassures us that we are on the right track.”

The award was given to Hi Walk Travels and received by Rajesh Gupta, Founder

Best Small Hotel for Meetings & Incentives SAROVAR PORTICO JAIPUR he corporate traveller will find the state-of-the-art business facilities and conference rooms exceeding his expectations at this hotel. On receiving Tthe award, Rahul Sinha, General Manager, Sarovar Portico Jaipur, says, “The MICE award is a good recognition, for a hotel like us. The accolade showcases to the world, our numerous offerings on the MICE segment.”

The award was given to Sarovar Portico Jaipur and received by Sharafat Ali, Sales Manager, Rahul Sinha, General Manager

Best MICE Operator - International  ADIONA TRAVELS ncentive travel is a global management tool, it uses exceptional travel experiences to motivate participants for increased levels of performance Iin support of organisational goals. Pawan Kharab, Director, Adiona Travels, shares, “I appreciate the award ceremony. It was fantastic. Recently, we organised MICE tour of 700 people to Thailand and 500 people to Australia for which I feel we have been recognised. It’s a great feeling when you get an award, especially in your own field, its always a double pleasure.”

The award was given to Adiona Travels and received by Directors, Lalit Sharma and Pawan Kharb

Gold Partner ASPRI SPIRITS spri Spirits today represents some of the finest brands in the world of wines, beer, cider and spirits and has emerged as the top player in the alcoholic Abeverage segment. The company with its commitment to ensure higest quality standards focuses on the sales, marketing and distribution is dedicated to building premium international brands in travel retail and domestic markets across the Indian sub-continent.

The award was given to Aspri Spirits and received by Sachin Abrol, Controller Sales - North & East

Hospitality Partner THE LALIT NEW DELHI eshav Suri, Chairperson and Managing Director, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, says, “For any hotelier, it is a matter of pride and Khonour to be nominated and to win. I would like to congratulate the team for carving this niche and also thank them for recognising the initiatives we have taken at The Lalit and awarding them.”

The award was given to The Lalit New Delhi and received by Vishal Sharma, Head of Sales Banquet and Vijay Bhalla, National Head - Corporate Sales TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 15

GLIMPSES of India MICE Awards 16 TRAVTALK JANUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018