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Tourism is still struggling The travel fraternity believes that the sector needs more nurturing from the government to reach its potential, as it hails the recent policy amendments in terms of GST and e-Visa fee.

Tourism is not a pampered Had we been a pampered sector, I’d like to disagree that tourism sector just because GST adjustment we would have grown by leaps and is a pampered sector. The sector is has been done and e-TV is being bounds and we’d not have been strug- working very hard and struggling, given, which was a long-standing gling at 10 million tourists. Of course, since nobody is giving us any benefit. demand for the country and was government support is also there. The government does talk about it, very important. Tourism has not been We are thankful to the government to but there is nothing on ground zero. declared as an industry, tourism SMEs reduce the GST and visa fee. However, This sector deserves more and really in the country do not get any funding there is a lot more to be done and a lot needs an impetus in terms of govern- in India, there is no regulation or can be achieved with full support of the ment policies. We are doing everything Naveen Kundu entry-level barrier in tourism that can HS Duggal government. The aim for all of us is to Rajesh Mudgill possible, but the government needs to Managing Director guarantee services and safety provided Managing Director achieve big inbound numbers and make Managing Director work in tandem. EbixCash Travel & Holidays Minar Group Planet India Travels to the tourist. India a viable destination. Contd on page 6 Are policies in line with set goals? A majority of TRAVTALK readers, 70 per cent to be precise, believe that the recent changes 30% in government policies for both tourism and hospitality will help the country achieve No its targetget o off 2 20 million tourists by 2024, while the remaining 30 per cent believe 70% thatt more work needs to be done to achieve the coveted milestone. Yes During the period January-December 2019, India registered 3.2 per cent growth in Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs).

BULLETIN SA tests e-visa for India In an effort to double its numbers from India by 2030, South Africa’s tourism ministry recently announced an e-visa regime for Indian passport holders on a pilot basis. The project was launched in the fourth week of January 2020.

Hazel Jain South Africa, said, "We want to About 32 agents attended the where a few types of travellers remove the barriers for entry morning session where they such as business travellers, outh African Tourism into South Africa for Indian trav- discussed ideas on how they diplomats, frequent travellers Srecently concluded the ellers and for this, we will intro- can push numbers. to South Africa will be afforded 17th edition of its three-city duce an online visa application multiple entries. We are waiting roadshow in Mumbai where the system (launched in January With this e-visa process, the forour Parliament to ratify this,” country’s Minister of Tourism 2020). This will be on a pilot turnaround time will be around Kubayi-Ngubane said. The joined the delegation to make basis for now and we will look five days, but with no change minister recalled that South some path-breaking announce- at introducing it formally with in visa fee. The minister added, Africa had also recently ments. Mmamoloko Kubayi- full implementation by April “We also wanted to have a visa abolished the need for the Ngubane, Minister of Tourism, this year.” This was keeping in line with the ambitious aim of This will be on a pilot basis for now and South African Tourism to cross 100,000 visitors from India in we will look at introducing it formally with 2020 and effectively doubling the numbers and touching 21 full implementation by April this year million arrivals from India by 2030. The minister also held fee waiver for Indian travellers, unabridged birth certificates an exclusive session with but this was not passed. necessary for travelling minors. key travel trade partners However, our ultimate aim for from Mumbai. India will be to waive it off. Two “We will now have a more countries – India and China – focused marketing strategy will be part of this new e-visa for India. We are very keen on pilot programme.” enhancing our sports tourism, incentive groups and weddings She added that another is- apart from families,” she said. sue with visas was multiple Her ministry is also in talks with entry. “A Memorandum of a couple of airlines – Indian Understanding has been signed and Middle Eastern – that fly to between the South African Min- both India and South Africa to ister of Home Affairs and their connect the two nations with a counterpart in India for this, direct flight. TRAVTALK brings to you news and events that made years headlines 25 years ago with relevance even today. From the archives, we VIEWPOINT present the February 2nd 1995 issue:

Make way for the Welcomgroup which strengthened its Bhavan- will offer twenty deluxe magnificent Umaid Bhavan Palace presence in Rajastahn, a thrust area rooms and twenty more will be Hotel in Jodhpur, the Royal Castle for the group’s leisure sector, with a added some thereafter. Kota, a city in Khimsar (recently renovated with Indian traveller brand new five-star deluxe property in of lakes, palaces and ancient palaces the addition of a swimming pool) Jaipur, Rajputana Palace Sheraton, and ancient temples is a mere and the Lalgarh Palace in Bikaner. has taken over the Maharaja’s three-hour drive from Jaipur and Welcomgroup is looking at more f one could list the many positive outcomes of In- palace in Kota. In the first phase very close to attractions like Bundi, palaces in Rajasthan as part of its Rs dia’s growing middle class in terms of both size and which will be completed within a Ranthambore and Jhalawar. 700 crore development plan for the I few months the Kota Palace-Umed Welcomgroup already runs the next five years. spend, rapid increase in international travel would feature in the first five entries, to say the least. The Indian traveller has both the means and the hanker- ing to travel, and yearns to share it on social media. Holiday No wonder then that the world is recognising India as Inn at one of the most sought-after outbound markets, one that can breathe new life into a country’s economy Jaipur through tourism alone. This label has made many a Holiday Inn, Jaipur, a joint venture country ease their visa regime to one that is ever- of holiday Inn more welcoming of the Indian tourist. While some Worldwide and Inn Realty Hotel have actioned visa-free entry for Indian travellers, Ventures Ltd, Jaipur some others are working their way to ease the visa opened in 1995. process altogether. Still some others are partnering to open visa application centres beyond Tier-I cities of India, helping them cater to the growth in travellers from across the country’s many regions. Government needs to do more While outbound is on the rise, domestic and inbound tourism is also being given a boost by Ministry of Contd from page 3 Tourism (MOT), Government of India. The ministry has undertaken several projects in this regard, including upgrade of facilities at India’s heritage sites which would be great value additions to visiting tourists and equipping tourist guides with the right knowledge. The ministry continues to regularly in- teract with the trade to identify key markets to tap, Pradip Lulla Rajiv Mehra Deepak Bhatnagar Ravi Gosain while also taking their requests into consideration Acting President Vice President Managing Director Managing Director when devising policies. TAFI IATO Aamantran Travels Erco Travels While these efforts do lay all the groundwork for I personally feel that It is the vision of our Tourism cannot be Our Prime Minister has growth in inbound and domestic numbers, tourism tourism in India needs a lot Prime Minister that employ- labelled as a pampered been talking of tourism for of pampering. In fact, 9.5 ment increases. This would sector. We would love to a long time and in his last stakeholders still largely feel that the steps being per cent of our GDP comes only happen if the tourism be pampered and I hope speech, he said that tourism taken were only long due. The trade feels that while from tourism and hospital- sector is pampered. There the government is able is a growth and employment a reduction in GST and amendment of the e-Visa ity, which is one tenth of the has been a revision in visa to spoil us more with generator for the country. total. Things like rural and fee, which is a big achieve- more benefits. If they Currently, tourism industry fee are steps in the right direction, it is too less, too agri-tourism could be given ment. What is left, however, would do that, it would is very stagnant and we late in India’s tourism story. The sector still awaits a boost if some sort of is that as an individual tour be beneficial to the country, are facing a lot of problems, an ‘industry’ status that would greatly benefit it and incentives could be given. operator, we all go out and do because tourism is the and I think that as a facilita- biggest employment the country, and truly make a difference to tourist Of course, the government promotions. In our meetings tor, the government should has been kind enough to with the Director General of generator for India give some benefits. Just numbers in India. reduce the GST on hotels, Tourism, we highlighted this when unemployment like we have SEIS benefits It only seems imperative that both the government but I don’t think it is a pam- issue, and that the MDA is a huge problem we are from Ministry of Commerce, pered sector. Even if you scheme be revised without facing. If we can boost it should be followed in and industry soon find middle ground for the greater see the overall package for a any clause, so that smaller numbers as tourism industry, the next financial policy benefit of tourism. M!CE conference, there are a agents could go abroad and we will generate jobs and as well. lot of taxes like VAT. do promotions. increase employment. Inputs by Nisha Verma

Vikramajit Editorial Advertising Advertising (Mumbai) MUMBAI: Devika Jeet Suchita Saran TRAVTALK is a publication of DDP Publications Private Limited. information contained in this publication which is provided The publisher assumes no responsibility for returning any 504, Marine Chambers, 43, New Marine Lines, Chairman Nisha Verma Nikhil Jeet Branch Manager All information in TRAVTALK is derived from sources, which we for general use, and may not be appropriate for the read- material solicited or unsolicited nor is he responsible for Hazel Jain Director Opp. SNDT College, Mumbai - 400 020, India, Manas Dwivedi Harshal Ashar consider reliable and a sincere effort is made to report ac- ers’ particular circumstances. Contents of this publication material lost or damaged. Ph.: +91-22-22070129; 22070130 SanJeet Arumita Gupta General Manager Senior 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 Smitha Kulshreshth 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 Jatin Sahni Manager Advertising Durga Das Publications Middle East (FZE) Senior Manager cannot accept liability for errors and omissions contained in or transmitted in any form without the permission of the VSHFLÀFSURGXFWRUVHUYLFHVRIIHUHG7KHSXEOLVKHUUHVHUYHV Susan Eapen Z1-02, PO Box: 9348, Saif Zone, Sharjah, UAE Peden Doma Bhutia Tripti Mehta Gaganpreet Kaur Sr. executive – Sales & marketing this publication, however caused. Similarly, opinions/views publication in writing. The same rule applies when there the right to refuse, withdraw, amend or otherwise deal with Asst. Editor Manager 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 Modest Print Pack Pvt. Design: Nityanand Misra Ltd., C-52, DDA Sheds Okhla Industrial Area, Phase-I, New 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 Delhi-110020 and published at 72, Todarmal Road, Production: Anil Kharbanda 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, error or failure of an advertisement to appear. New Delhi - 110 001 CIN: U22210DL2012PTC230432 Circulation: Ashok Rana 5HDGHUVDUHDGYLVHGWRVHHNVSHFLÀFDGYLFHEHIRUHDFWLQJRQ mission could face legal action. Ph.:+91-11-23234177 VISAS FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 TRAVTALK 7 Polish visa in Delhi & Mumbai

H.E. Adam The Embassy of Republic of Poland in India and Burakowski, Ambassador VFS Global have signed a contract under which Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary the latter will provide visa services for Poland in of the Republic of Poland to India through its centres in Delhi and Mumbai. India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives Manas Dwivedi said, “With the aim to bring history and culture, Poland and Afghanistan (left), along with Polish visa services closer is striking a chord with Indians, VFS Global manage- esidents of India can now to home for Indian travel- becoming increasingly popular ment, at the launch Rapply for a Polish visa lers, we are excited to have and we are honoured to be of the Polish Visa through VFS Global. Its Visa launched the centres in New offering visa services for Application Centre in New Delhi. Application Centres (VACs) Delhi and Mumbai. Rich in the destination.” have already commenced operations in New Delhi and Mumbai, and will soon be available in eight other cities - Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Chen- nai, Hyderabad, Jaipur and Kolkata. The centre in New Delhi was officially inaugurated by H.E. Adam Burakowski, Ambassador Extraordinary and Visa Application Centres will soon be available in Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Bengaluru, Jaipur, Chennai, Hyderabad, Chandigarh and Kolkata

Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Poland to India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Afghanistan. Prior to the opening of the new VACs, travellers had to visit the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in New Delhi or the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Mumbai to apply for the visa.

Speaking at the inauguration in Delhi, the Ambassador said, “Poland is becoming more and more attractive for Indians, with its rich business opportunities, touristic destinations and excellent universities. The number of visa applicants is growing fast. Also, the launch of the direct flight between Warsaw and New Delhi is a major step. We look forward to the partnership with VFS Global. We would like to make the visa application process easier for and more accessible to people.”

Sharing his view, Vinay Malhotra, Regional Group Chief Operating Officer - South Asia, Middle East & North Africa, Americas, VFS Global, 8 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 STATISTICS Peak for long-haul: ForwardKeys Big ships will start sailing in the Ganges by ForwardKeys analysed three long-haul source United Kingdom 2021: PM Modi UK has two periods of peak bookings: January and the period September markets for India – USA, UK and Australia – and to November. Interestingly, January accounts for 12 per cent of the booking EbixCash signs travel found that both USA and UK had two peak periods, volume and September-November account for 29 per cent of it. India Arrivals Bookings History by Trip origins Jan 2019-Dec. 2019 technology deal with while Australia had only one. Amadeus for expansion 140 000 ForwardKeys’ recent study analyses the time of actual 2019 inbound book- 120 000 in APAC and UAE ings data to India from key long-haul source markets – USA, UK and Australia. In order to time the marketing activities of inbound players as well as India 100 000 Homestays in West Tourism, it is important to understand the actual booking patterns of travellers 80 000 to India. Typically, marketing initiatives and customer outreach should hap- Bengal growing at 30% 60 000 pen a month before peak booking periods or timed with the peak periods. CAGR 40 000 USA 20 000 Second premium From the US, the bookings data showed that the highest number of bookings Tejas train starts happen in September and October; the two months account for 21 per cent of 0 all bookings. Even in January, there is a peak of 10 per cent. operations on Jan-2019 Feb-2019 Mar-2019 Apr-2019 May-2019 Jun-2019 July-2019 Aug-2019 Sep-2019 Oct-2019 Nov-2019 Dec-2019 Ahmedabad-Mumbai India Arrivals Bookings History by Trip origins Jan 2019-Dec. 2019 Australia 160 000 Being in the Southern Hemisphere, Australia has one peak booking period – from route July to September – which accounts for 32 per cent of the total bookings volume. 140 000 India Arrivals Bookings History by Trip origins Jan 2019-Dec. 2019 Chennai Airport to 120 000 50 000

be first Indian airport to 100 000 have five-screen PVR 40 000 80 000 multiplex 60 000 30 000

MAYFAIR to open 40 000 20 000 252-room five-star 20 000 deluxe hotel in Kolkata 0 10 000

by early 2021 Jan-2019 Feb-2019 Mar-2019 Apr-2019 May-2019 Jun-2019 July-2019 Aug-2019 Sep-2019 Oct-2019 Nov-2019 Dec-2019 0 Source: ForwardKeys

(The views, information, or opinions expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the view of the publication.) Jan-2019 Feb-2019 Mar-2019 Apr-2019 May-2019 Jun-2019 July-2019 Aug-2019 Sep-2019 Oct-2019 Nov-2019 Dec-2019

10 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 QUICKBYTES Local involvement for J&K Experts from different ﬁelds speak about the strengths and weaknesses of developing tourism in the newly-carved Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, while discussing its future at a panel titled ‘Incredible India - Incredible Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh’ at the Kashmironomics forum.

Ashwani Lohani Naveen Kundu R Gopalan Priya Sethi Jyotsna Suri Asif Iqbal Burza Chairman & Managing Managing Director Former Secy, Dept of Former Minister and Chairperson & MD Managing Director Director, Air India EbixCash, Travel and Holidays Economic Affairs, GOI Spokesperson - J&K, BJP Bharat Hotels Ahad Hotels & Resorts There is a need to put We need to involve the The administration needs Development of new The scope of tourism in We need tourists to visit tourism in perspective, which people of Kashmir in the to ensure that the needs destinations for wellness, Kashmir is huge and there is J&K and share their stories will involve promotional development process of of the local people are ad- tribal tourism, theme park a need for local Kashmiris to and experiences, as Kashmir, campaigns, digital campaigns, tourism, as without them it dressed while promoting the tourism, golf tourism, sports, get into the integration mode. besides its natural landscape, participation at events, setting won't happen. The only issue vibrant economy of the place. etc., should be undertaken. The local population needs has a unique cuisine, culture right of JTDC properties as in Kashmir is unorganised There is a need to first create We must encourage the film to be involved at every level. and way of life. From the gov- there is a dearth of good accommodation. The onus infrastructure, work towards industry to come to Jammu, Kashmir needs zero market- ernment, the tourism industry hotels, and the drive to make of lifting the ailing tourism improved connectivity, provide Kashmir and Ladakh. Also, ing and doesn’t really need needs serious handholding as it a vouched-for destination for sector is on private investors the right facilities for different the PPP model would allow promotion among the Indian it is on a ‘ventilator’. We need tourism. J&K needs to invite who need to step in and segments of tourism, offer people to invest in the UTs, or international community. bailout packages to survive the private sector for creat- do the needful. It is now good internet connectivity and which will increase the We do not need marketing, but these difficult times. The run- ing accommodation options the responsibility of the ensure a proper marketing economy of both the territo- we need people to come, and ning costs are already very and different products need residents to restore the strategy for making people ries. Ultimately, railways the destination needs to be high and it isn’t easy. to be promoted. glory of Kashmir. come to the valley. need to be brought in. sold by travel agents. Inputs by Nisha Verma NTO FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 TRAVTALK 11 Thailand records 18% growth In 2019, Thailand received 1.9 million Indian arrivals, revealed Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Asia and South Paciﬁc), Tourism Authority of Thailand. They now have new offerings for Tier 2 and 3 cities.

Nisha Verma travel agents may not sell coming up in Pattaya. people mixing business those new places if we do not Bangkok itself is improving with leisure trips. Even for he previous year proved come on board and help them rapidly with more subway weddings, it is the number- Tto be another record one with budgets and advertising, lines being opened up. one outbound wedding for Tourism Authority of especially with content.” destination, not only restricted Thailand (TAT) in terms of new attractions constantly. For M!CE, Thailand has to big cities, but Phuket and Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya Dy. Governor for Int'l Marketing (Asia & South Indian arrivals. “Last year, The deputy governor also “We have new theme parks in been a popular destination Hua Hin are also quite Pacific), Tourism Authority of Thailand we welcomed more than claimed that they are adding Phuket and have big shows for Indian companies, with popular,” he shared. 1.9 million Indian tourists to the country, which was a new record, especially with the visa waiver scheme that the country introduced for Indians. It was about 18 per cent growth over 2018. The numbers were robust last year, hence, the outlook for 2020 is also robust in terms of tourist traffic into Thailand from India,” shared Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya.

He added that with India being a large market having plenty of interest in Thailand, what We need to focus on Tier-II and III cities where there is a huge demand for travelling overseas was needed now was the latter to expand into the second- ary cities of India. “We need to focus on Tier-II and III cities where there is a huge demand for travelling overseas, and Thailand is at the very top of people’s mind,” he said.

Simultaneously, TAT is working with agents for joint promotions. “We try to talk to each agent and discern what their target markets are. For those looking for shopping, we try to work more with departmental stores or shopping places. Food has always been very important, so we are providing more inputs about restaurants and places to eat at. Apart from that, we offer some of the smaller villages and towns for a nice day-trip, which is very popular. We want travel agents to include those in their tour programmes and for joint promotions as well, providing new packages. This is because on their own,

14 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 VISAS VFS’ Italy Global app from Feb VFS Global, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Italy, will launch the ‘Italy Global’ App on February 1, to facilitate a seamless visa process for Indian travellers heading to the European nation or those interested in doing business there.

Anupriya Bishnoi Ambassador of Italy, in 10 the Indian wedding segment,” years’ time, they have doubled he says. The Ambassador he previous year was a the number of tourist visas to adds that mobile biometrics Trecord one for Italy, with as Italy. “That means Italy is be- launched by VFS will be many as 61,000 Indians travel- coming one of the top destina- available to assist with any ling to the European nation, tions in Europe for Indians. We application queries. A team of thus marking a year-on-year also encourage Indian movie VFS Global staff will visit the growth of 25 per cent. Accord- makers to come and shoot customer at the location to ing to Vicenzo de Luca, in Italy, and we aim to target collect their visa application and enrol biometric data.

Tuscany for Indian travellers Vinay Malhotra, Regional Group COO - South Asia, Vinay Malhotra Vicenzo de Luca Daniele G Sfregola “We have luxury hotels, wineries and Regional Group COO - S Asia, ME & Ambassador First Secretary, Head of Consular and special tours just for high-end travellers. Middle East & North Africa, North Africa, Americas, VFS Global of Italy Visa Section, Embassy of Italy Florence is also famous for luxury brands Americas, VFS Global, says that Indians take a lot of interest in. We that mobile biometrics will are attracting experiential travellers, too, essentially be beneficial to of the country. He shares, Global - which will go live on Visa Section, Italy, says that since Tuscany is now much more than large groups travelling to Italy “Recently, we also launched a February 1 and will act as realising the importance of the just a fashion hub. We are develop- and will reach every corner new mobile App for Italy - Italy a complete tourist guide for Indian market, the new ‘Italy ing sports and experiential activities for travellers who are either just Global’ App, being launched in tourists who want to indulge in that. We We also encourage Indian movie makers applying for a visa or those collaboration with VFS, will al- have an office in Tuscany which specialises in M!CE, especially to who are interested in doing low applicants to seek assist- Florence. Visitors can arrive in Tuscany by a high-speed train from to come and shoot in Italy, and we aim to business in Italy.” ance through navigation tools Rome, which only takes about an hour.” target the Indian wedding segment and a real-time chat interface. -Francesco Palumbo Daniele G. Sfregola, First Sec- This App will be easy to use Director, Tuscany Tourist Board Vicenzo de Luca retary, Head of Consular and and will be handy.

16 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 AVIATION Virgin upgrades product for India Keeping in the mind customer preferences on the India-London route, Virgin Atlantic is tweaking its offerings, including F&B, to ensure its Indian clients are happy. The airline will also soon go double daily between Heathrow and Delhi.

Hazel Jain with Sir Richard Branson to offer the best journey to all customers. And, of course, have good timings both ways The airline has also recently announce the new India- customers. On this route, we we offer Bollywood movies,” for Mumbai and have seen taken delivery of four A350s, orneel Koster, Executive London route. He said, “We have a great mix of British he adds. really strong load factors. but it flies them between CVice President – Custom- are so proud to be back in and Indian hospitality. We This market has been growing New York and London at the er, Virgin Atlantic Airways, Mumbai. At the same time, are very proud of our Indian The secret, Koster says, is about 25 per cent over the moment. “To India, we fly our was in Mumbai recently along this is a special year for us cabin crew and are at this in really listening to the cus- last five years. The capacity Dreamliner 787-9, which is because we are also going moment recruiting 40 more tomer. “We had about 5,300 to go double daily between crew members to have a Indian customers responding Heathrow and Delhi from good number of Indian crew to our survey this year. We March 2020. So effectively, on our flights. We have an analysed each and every one we are really going to triple Indian food critic as part of and took their inputs. So, our flying into this fantastic market. Year 2020 is also our 20th year of being in India.” We have good timings both ways for is, of course, completely a fantastic product. We have different from what it was a a couple of A330s to Delhi Speaking about its offerings Mumbai and strong load factors. This market couple of years ago. So, we as well. So, we have got a on the route, he shares that has been growing about 25% see really good opportunities really modern fleet. Our 787 the airline has been study- in the Mumbai market. We is fantastic in a three-cabin ing the market offer very good connectivity layout – Upper, Premium and its prefer- our F&B team and we are we now have better arrival upon arrival both ways with and Economy – and then we ences. “We evolving our food all the time. snacks with naan, dal and our own flights, but also with have Economy Delight with study our We now have paneer makhni murgh. We have also added our partner, Delta. We have extra legroom in the Economy markets all and biryani on-board, midnight snacks,” he says. great connectivity to the US cabin. It also has a good the time which is of amazing quality specially New York and Bos- sustainable footprint with Corneel Koster and we and we have received re- Speaking about the India ton, which are big markets for reduced CO2, noise and fuel Executive Vice President – Customer Virgin Atlantic Airways try and ally good feedback from our market, Koster shares, “We Mumbai and India.” burn,” Koster adds. AGENTS FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 TRAVTALK 17 Capturing photo tours ITDC chief meets J&K LG Abhishek Hajela, Travel Photographer, Eastbound, talks about the growing impact of photography tours and how they started this division at Eastbound.

Nisha Verma

astbound is offering Developing a photo trip is an organic Ephotography tours to its process. The photo critique and one-on-one clients, and the main idea behind these tours, according sessions are the backbones of our trips to Abhishek Hajela, Travel Photographer, Eastbound, is to Popular destinations for such Madurai. They also keep build strong community-based tours include Varanasi, small adding destinations like G Kamala Vardhana Rao, Chairman & Managing Director, India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), recently met trips that unite participants tribal villages in Rajasthan, Bangladesh, Indian festivals GC Murmu, Lieutenant Governor, Jammu & Kashmir, to discuss issues pertaining to the operations of Hotel Jammu Ashok. due to a shared passion. “Over Ladakh, Kolkata, Kochi and and walking tours. the years, I have seen growth in our database, friendships forming and growing, and participants wanting to come back on different trips together. This really brings to life the idea of showcasing a destination through photos. A picture speaks a thousand words and that is our USP. We market a trip just by showing how amazing the destination or a trip is via images,” he says.

Abhishek Hajela Travel Photographer Eastbound

Hajela insists that the highlight of these tours is to get a much deeper experience compared to a normal cookie-cutter trip. “Developing a photo trip is an organic process. You can't just go into a village and start taking pictures. It’s all about building a bond first and then photographing during the trips, which might take several years and that is what we offer to participants when they take one of our trips. We discuss different cameras, lenses, edit- ing software, camera gear, filters, etc. The photo critique and one-on-one sessions are the backbones of our trips. I have also care- fully selected guides, drivers, hotels, time of the year, etc., to come together in a seamless itinerary. Our escorts and guides then take the group to the right spots and are always on the ground to ensure the group’s safety and give them the conducive atmosphere to photograph to their heart’s content,” he claims. 18 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 NTO

This year, Singapore Tourism Board (STB) will focus on M!CE and cruise travellers from India, and provide incentives to trade partners in the form of grants on cost of travel in Singapore, co-investment in marketing promotions and complimentary experiences to their clients.

Manas Dwivedi part of a master plan, and promoting the Mandai eco- resenting Singapore tourism hub. STB is keen on Assisting travel agents by co-investing PTourism Board’s scheme corporate and incentive travel for both M!CE and cruise from India and the board “We believe in ensuring that tourists have good reason to visit Singa- segments to partner with the has envisaged two primary pore and spend more time in the country. On that front, specifically for tourism sector in harnessing schemes for M!CE travellers. cruise travellers, STB would like visitors to spend at least two days in growth opportunities, GB Under the first scheme, IN- Singapore to make sure that they have a wholesome holiday experience Srithar, Regional Director, SPIRE (In Singapore Incentive on both land and water. We are actively engaging with travel agents who India, Middle East & South Rewards Scheme), corporate are interested in promoting fly-cruise packages with pre and post- Asia, STB, shared details groups of 20-200 pax coming holiday experiences on land in Singapore. Through our support scheme, on the latest and upcoming to Singapore and staying for GB Srithar Cruise Development Fund, we are happy to assist travel agents by Regional Director developments in Singapore’s a minimum three days will India, Middle East & South Asia, STB co-investing in their marketing and in their product development of a pre and post cruise-cum-holiday programme. Over the last few months, we Raymond Lim have received good response from travel agents, who have committed Area Director, India & South It is about how we can grow connections than 250 pax, STB offers its themselves to co-invest with STB to promote such programmes. We Asia (New Delhi) with the trade and bring Singapore even second scheme - Business will continue doing the same throughout 2020.” Singapore Tourism Board Events in Singapore Scheme closer to the hearts of Indian travellers (BEiS) - meant for corporates, where the board can offer a Together’, shared Srithar. “It trade partners in the leisure, Indonesia. “We have been grant to offset some of the is about how we can grow business, M!CE and cruise steadfastly engaging travellers tourism landscape, such as be provided a selection of 60 cost of travel in Singapore. connections with the travel travel segments,” he added. through the trade, media expansion of Marina Bay complimentary experiences in trade across India and bring partnerships and marketing Sands and Resorts World, areas such as entertainment, For 2020, STB’s theme for Singapore even closer to the India is the third most initiatives. We look forward redevelopment of Sentosa nightlife and team-building, trade engagement is ‘Grow- hearts and minds of Indian important source market for to another successful year of together with Pulau Brani as by STB. For a group of more ing Connections, Achieving travellers through our travel Singapore after China and Indian visitorship,” he said.

22 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 VISAS E-visa to all regions of Russia? After offering free e-visa to Indian tourists travelling to four regions of the Russian Federation, including St. Petersburg, Leningrad, Kaliningrad and Far East region, Russia is going to further simplify the process by offering an e-visa facility to all regions of the Federation by 2021.

Manas Dwivedi the key areas of focus at the Federation, said, “Active pro- event. India is placed third in motion of information about he Federal Agency for terms of fastest growing tour- e-visas within the professional TTourism of the Russian ism exporter to Russia from community and the growth Federation, federal agency the Asian region, with 47.8 of welfare of a large part of Rossotrudnichestvo, the local per cent growth. The Federal Indians will soon lead to an organising structure for UEFA Agency for Tourism expects increase in the tourist flow Euro 2020 (St. Petersburg) that introducing e-visas for from India, and we should ac- and UNWTO together Indian citizens will be an ef- tively develop those new types organised the ‘Russia 2020 - fective way to double the flow of tourism that have been EURO as a Gift’ roadshow in of both group and individual requested, including culinary tours and expeditions.”

We should actively develop new Prashant Chaudhary Sergey Korneev Alexander F Gorokhov At the event, Alexander F Chairman and Managing Director Deputy Head, Federal Agency for Tourism CEO Gorokhov, CEO, Association types of tourism that have been requested, Salvia Promoters of the Russian Federation SONATO Union of National and Inter- including culinary tours and expeditions national Tourist Information Sergey Korneev St. Petersburg, and introduc- Director, Salvia Promoters, we will promote Murmansk, Organizations (SONATO), ing a ‘Fan ID’ that would be a said that Russia is becoming where travellers can see the spoke of the potential of the special pass for travellers who one of the most preferred Northern Lights. We expect Indian market being no less New Delhi with an objective tourists from the country. buy tickets to Euro 2020. outbound destinations among almost 150,000 Indian tourists than that of the Chinese. to present the main tourist The event was also an op- Indian travellers. “Moscow in 2020,” he said. “Three years ago, there were products of Russia to the portunity for the trade to get Partners in promoting and St. Petersburg are two 40,000 tourists and today, Indian market. The topic of details on matches in the different regions of Russia in popular destinations among Sergey Korneev, Deputy this has touched 70,000. We e-visa and the mechanism UEFA Euro 2020, the European India, Prashant Chaudhary, Indians; we have also added Head, Federal Agency for expect to hit the 100,000 mark for obtaining the same were football championship in Chairman and Managing Sochi to the list. This year, Tourism of the Russian this year,” he said. Trafalgar Holidays in Morocco

Trafalgar Holidays recently conducted a seven-day Fam tour for its top-selling agents of the year. Agents experienced the labyrinth of Moroccan bazaars and shimmering Sahara while visiting the charming cities of Casablanca, Fez and Marrakesh. The tour was organised with the aim to showcase how guests travelling on Trafalgar Holidays have a good time. Destination Weavers in Delhi

Destination Weavers, a well-knit DMC operating in the Indian subcontinent and headed by Pankaj Hingorani as its Director, recently opened its office in New Delhi. The company specialises in travel not just to India, but to Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Tibet, Nepal and the Maldives as well.

24 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 ASSOCIATION NICE to tap tri-nation potential PATA Nepal Chapter, in association with PATA India Chapter and PATA China Chapter, is all set to organise Nepal India China Expo (NICE) from February 22-25, 2020. The event is aimed at strengthening the tourism ties between the three neighbours and tapping their potential to the fullest.

Nisha Verma that. PATA Nepal Chapter has a in long-haul travel globally, so spective destinations to, from, vision of achieving five million this is the right time to tap this and within them,” he said. epal India China Expo tourists by 2030 and for that sector,” Sakya said. N(NICE) is a first-of-its-kind purpose, we are working on a Bibhuti Chand Thakur, Chair- initiative, a tri-nation tourism number of events,” he shared. Mario Hardy, CEO, PATA, man, PATA Nepal Chapter, was exposition that aims to bring According to him, the Bud- was also present in Delhi for also present at the event. He together tourism and dhist circuit is another shared the meeting. He said that the said, “We decided to organise hospitality stakeholders tourism segment between the idea behind the event was to something historical, where from India, Nepal, and China. three nations. “There are a lot share the concept with the tourism entrepreneurs of the The main objective of the of Chinese who want to come audience in India, what the three nations could come event is to contribute hugely to India and Nepal because of event was all about, and why together on a single platform. to bridging the tourism divide Buddhism. There are tremen- it’s important for the three The event would not just be and tapping the huge potential Bibhuti Chand Thakur Sunil Sakya based in Kathmandu; the Chairman Immediate Past Chairman of the region by expediting PATA Nepal Chapter PATA Nepal Chapter second edition of the event A lot of Chinese want to come to India can be held in any of the cities Programme: and Nepal because of Buddhism; we have in India, and the third edition cohesion among the was geared up towards the could be held in one of the Feb 15-21: Pre-expo Fam three countries. outbound tourism potential been able to tap only 0.1% of this cities in China.” trips for international buyers, of China, India and Nepal, Sunil Sakya sellers, media PATA Nepal Chapter recently so that tourism could move Ajeet Bajaj, MD, Snow Feb 22: Inauguration updated members of the Indian around between the three Leopard Expeditions, has ceremony and welcome dinner reception travel trade on NICE at an countries. “We have many dous opportunities and we neighbouring countries to work been made the brand ambas- event in New Delhi, where tourists coming from India have been able to tap only 0.1 together. “We’d like to bring sador for NICE. He said that Feb 23: NICE conference Sunil Sakya, Immediate Past to Nepal, and thereafter to per cent of this outbound mar- the three countries together the event will be a force multi- Feb 24-25: Business Expo Chairman, PATA Nepal Chapter, Kailash Mansarovar and Tibet. ket. We should go short-haul to understand the potential for plier, bringing the three nations (B2B session) said that the programme We would also like to promote because there is a slowdown developing tourism in the re- closer through tourism. U & I Holidays brings Bali to India Indonesia and Maldives expert U & I Holidays brought in about 25 partners from Indonesia who interacted with travel agents in New Delhi, Nagpur, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and then ﬁnally, Chennai, as part of its roadshow. The company will also formally launch its dynamic portal for the trade, which will mark its 10 years of operations.

26 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 STATISTICS APAC to brace for 1 billion visitors Pacific Asia Travel Association’s (PATA’s) key prediction in its latest report titled Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2020-2024 is that the region is set to receive approximately one billion international visitors in the next five years. If so, this will mark an almost 60 per cent growth in the additional international arrivals in APAC compared to those between 2014 and 2019.

73.44 74.84 77.15

22.68 21.27 19.40

Notes: IVAs = International visitor arrivals AAGR = average annual growth rate, expressed as a percentage 2019 Data = estimates 2020-2024 data = forecasts. Notes: IVAs = International visitor arrivals 2019 data = estimates 2024 data = forecasts. Covering the years 2019 to 2024 and 39 destinations within the region, these forecasts anticipate a The distribution of these IVAs in Asia Pacific is expected to change only marginally from 2019, with volume of over 971 million international visitor arrivals (IVAs) into Asia Pacific, by 2024. The strong the Asia and Pacific regions expected to show some relative as well as absolute increases in arrival increase in IVAs has been driven by the average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 5.3 per cent between numbers. Asia is forecast to remain as the dominant destination region, while the Americas will come 2014 and 2019, and that momentum is expected to increase even further over the next five years. in second, although its share is expected to reduce slightly over the period between 2019 and 2024.

Where India stands The top group of 11 destinations by strongest IVA increase is likely to account for 77 per cent of the IVA volume into Asia Pacific in 2024. In addition, it is predicted that nine out of 10 destinations will have AAGRs (between 2019 and 2024) in excess of 10 per cent, with India touching an AAGR of 11.5 per cent.

Notes: IVAs = International visitor arrivals AAGR = average annual growth rate, expressed as a percentage 2019 data = estimates, 2020-204 data = forecast

Notes: IVAs = International visitor arrivals 2019 data = estimates 2020-2024 data = forecasts. Notes: IVAs = International visitor arrivals 2019 data = estimates 2020-2024 data = forecasts. The relative strength of the close intra-regional flows also becomes evident in the top As a generator of IVAs into and across APAC, Asia is predicted to continue grow- 10 source-destination pairs by IVA increase. Excluding the Greater China flows, while ing in relative share, accounting for almost 68 per cent of all IVAs into the region in China will emerge as the top source market for Cambodia, Japan and Thailand among 2024. India ranks among the top 10 source markets into Asia Pacific by IVA increase, others, Bangladesh will turn out to be the top source market for India. accounting for 16.78 million international arrivals. Source: Pacific Asia Travel Association

28 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 FAMILYALBUM gets the show rolling

Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) recently concluded a part of the Nepal Sales Mission - 2020 across ﬁve cities - Amritsar, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Indore and Surat. The sales mission was aimed at educating the trade on the different regions of Nepal and updating them on recent developments. The Himalayan nation hopes to receive two million tourists in 2020. AMRITSAR CHANDIGARH

For more pictures, turn to page 30

30 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 FAMILYALBUM Jaipur & Indore greet all JAIPUR INDORE

For more pictures, turn to page 32

32 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 FAMILYALBUM NTB makes a stop at Surat SURAT

Destination-in-waiting A premier league in Ahmedabad Nizwa: The Pearl of Islam The famous Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta once noted Nizwa as “a city enveloped by orchards and streams, with ﬁne bazaars and splendid clean mosques.”

Inder Raj Ahluwalia

scenic drive from Muscat A through stark, barren mountains, brings one to a little town that shoulders a long history. Sprawled across a water–fed wadi (valley) and marking its territory in the heart of Oman’s Dakhiliyah region lies the Nizwa oasis settlement. A former capital The fort is Nizwa’s signature souvenir shopping. When there, of Oman, Nizwa is known monument, a source of pride visit the souk! Resembling a as ‘The Pearl of Islam’ and a bastion of Oman’s past. model village, the souk is a or ‘The Egg of Islam’, being From the top of the turret, you maze of narrow alleys and little one of the world’s first get a 360-degree view of the outlets selling a bewildering Islamic outposts. town, the entire valley, and the assortment of household hills and mountains in the dis- goods, spices, dry fruit, dates, tance. Watching over everything foodstuffs, and Omani sweets. Travel guide is the minaret of the mosque, The Gulf of Oman’s generosity Y Nizwa is a 90-minute its top embellished with blue can be bought at the fish mar- drive from Muscat. and gold. Several rooms and ket. Stop for lunch at Falaj Daris Y Eating-out options range chambers are wedged in Hotel that offers delectable different spots around the fort, cuisine and a ‘lived-in’ from deluxe restaurants some luxuriously appointed, sort of ambience. to humble cafés. others sporting a plainer look. Y Accommodation Tourism Cricket Premier League, TCPL 2020, powered by TBO and Nijhawan Group, recently concluded in Ahmedabad. Held The overall effect is simple and comprises star category (Through the new column, between January 3 and 4, the tournament was attended by more than 500 travel trade partners, airlines, hoteliers, and DMCs telling. The in-house Oman Destination-in-waiting, we aim to talk from across India. The final match of the tournament between Compass Tourism and I do Travels was won by the former. hotels and guesthouses. Heritage Gallery offers good about unexplored corners of the world that hold immense potential for tourism.)

ASSOCIATIONTALK IATO all for small operators Media Partners: IATO is in talks with the Ministry of Tourism (MOT) to revise the guidelines of approval of inbound tour operators, allowing members with low turnover to also be recognised by the government. FEBRUARY 2020 Nisha Verma Nepal Sales Mission Kochi 1

OTM Mumbai 3-5 he Indian Association of TTour Operators (IATO) BIT Milano Milan 9-11 recently organised its monthly luncheon, where it shared NYC & Co Sales Mission Delhi 10-12 industry updates and discussed issues with members. Talking ATOUT France Sales Mission Bengaluru 10-12 about the same, Rajiv Mehra, Visit Finland Sales Mission Mumbai 11

STATT Monthly Members Meet Madurai 11

PATA Adventure Travel Conference We had meetings with various ministerial Rajesh Mudgill, Hony. & Mart Sabah, Malaysia 12-14 Secretary, IATO, shared that departments and the most important one they are trying to change the Visit Finland Sales Mission Delhi 13 was the burning issue of DGFT scripts guidelines of approval. “The ATOUT France Sales Mission Mumbai 13-14 majority of our members are Rajiv Mehra small-time operators, and NYC & Co Sales Mission Mumbai 13-15 Vice President, IATO, said, “We their turnover is less than `2 had meetings with various accepted our justifications Tourism, on the long-pending crore. We want to give them ONYX Hospitality Sales Mission Delhi 17-18 ministerial departments and and has started giving those demand of amending the this benefit that they should the most important one was scrips now.” MOT rule so that our smaller be exempted from having a Aviation Festival Asia Singapore 18-19 the burning issue of DGFT members are not affected and specified office, staff require- ONYX Hospitality Sales Mission Kolkata 19 scrips, which was stopped by Mehra also informed that they also get the benefit of MOT ments and various other the department. We really had they are in discussion with recognition. We are working conditions,” he said. ONYX Hospitality Sales Mission Mumbai 20 to work very hard and I would the Director General (DG), in that direction and I am quite especially like to thank Suman Tourism, on the MOT criteria hopeful that in a month’s time, IATO has been working towards IITM Kolkata 21-23 Sharma, Additional Director of recognising inbound agents. something should happen.” not getting airport passes General, Directorate General He shared, “We had a meeting Another issue discussed was of discontinued and is in discus- Bengal Travel Mart Siliguri 22-24 of Foreign Trade (DGFT), who with Meenakshi Sharma, DG, the MDA scheme. sion with MOT for the same. Reunion Island Destination Training Chennai 24

Reunion Island Destination Training Bengaluru 26

Reunion Island Destination Training Mumbai 28 HRANI meets MoS, Finance

MARCH 2020 CAPA Middle East & Africa Aviation Summit Amman, Jordan 2-3

ITB Berlin 4-8

World Wedding Forum Mumbai 11-12

World Wedding Forum Delhi- NCR 14-15

OTOAI Convention Antalya, Turkey 15-18

MITT Moscow 17-19 A delegation led by Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President, HRANI and Vice President, FHRAI and comprising Garish Oberoi, Treasurer; Vinod Gulati, MC Member; Renu Thapliyal, Secretary General, met Anurag Singh Thakur, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Corporate Affairs. The concerns of the Global Aerospace Summit Abu Dhabi 17-19 hospitality industry were discussed and submitted to the Minister.

Global Hospitality and Tourism Conference on Experiential Management and Marketing Shillong 18-20 OBITUARY Rendez Vous En France- Atout France Nantes, France 19-29 IITE Bhubaneshwar 20-22 Geeta Bhagat (November 29, 1953 - January 8, 2020) IT&CM China Shanghai 24-26 Geeta Bhagat, Head, Corporate Communications, Travel agents Association of India (TAAI), passed away on UITT 2020 Kyiv, Ukraine 25-2 January 8, 2020 after having bravely fought her battle with cancer. She was passionate about her role at Travel Thailand Tourism Luxury Roadshow Bengaluru 30 Agents Association of India (TAAI), and worked with dedication and sincerity looking after corporate communications, media and convention communications since 1999. She will always be remembered for her tremendous contribution to the WTM Latin America Sao Paulo 31-April 2 association’s flagship magazine – NAMASTAAI. The Managing Committee of TAAI, and all office bearers and staff members express their heartfelt condolences and pray that god almighty give immense strength to her children and family in this difficult time. Her fond memories PATA Annual Summit 2020 Ras Al Khaimah 31- April 3 will always live on with the members of the association. For more information, contact us at: [email protected] OPPORTUNITY FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 TRAVTALK 35 36 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 MOVEMENTS

INDIGO PRIDE HOTELS PRIDE HOTEL Delhi-NCR Mumbai Chennai Sanjay Kumar, who recently stepped down as COO of AirAsia India, will Kushal Ranjan has been appointed as Corporate Revenue Director at Pride Group of Hotels has appointed Ravi Dhankar as General now be joining as Chief Strategy & Revenue Officer at IndiGo Airlines. Pride Hotels. He has over eight years of experience in the hospitality Manager for the 115-room Pride Hotel Chennai that also offers Kumar was employed with IndiGo Airlines as Chief industry, working in the revenue vertical. Prior to taking up the meeting rooms and conference halls. Dhankar is a Commercial Officer from 2007 till 2018, before current position at Pride Hotels, Ranjan worked Hotel Management graduate with over 14 years his stint with AirAsia India. With over 25 years as Director of Revenue - Cluster for Marriott of hands-on experience in hotel operations, of experience in areas of business planning, International based in Pune. He had worked client relationship management, industry strategy, network development, distribution in a similar capacity with Accor Thailand and engagement and corporate liasioning with a and sales, marketing/advertising and PR in with Zuri Hotels in his earlier assignments. blend of sales and marketing. In the new role, the aviation industry, Kumar has even The Pride Group of Hotels is an eminent he will be responsible for ensuring that targets worked with SpiceJet and Sahara Airlines, Indian hospitality brand with a presence in set are being met. Prior to joining Pride Hotels, where he worked at different locations and in major cities across the country. It presently Dhankar worked with renowned varied positions. has a network of 20 hotels that continues to brands like The Leela, Taj, Lemon grow and expand. Tree and Sarovar Hotels.

LE MÉRIDIEN RESORT AND SPA THE FERN RESIDENCY HOWARD PLAZA THE FERN Jaipur Bhopal Agra Vinay Singh has been appointed as Hotel Manager at Le Méridien Manish Kumar Jha has joined as General Manager of The Amrendra Karn has been appointed as General Resort and Spa, Jaipur, where he will be responsible for leading Fern Residency, Bhopal, a 59-room midscale hotel offering Manager at Howard Plaza The Fern, Agra, a hotel well-suited the overall operationss and management of the contemporary accommodation, a finely- for corporate as well as luxury travellers hotel. A trail-blazer inn the field of hospitality designed multi-cuisine restaurant, four to the city of the Taj. Karn has two decades with over 18 yearss of experience in banquet halls, a swimming pool and several of rich experience in hotel management, leading Indian and international hotel other facilities. With a rich experience of 20 with expertise in strategic planning, client brands, Singh possessesssesses the vision years in hotel operations, Jha’s expertise relationship and fiscal leadership. An IHM and capability to sseeee the big picture will help the hotel achieve targets that it Lucknow alumnus, he has developed his and make decisionsons accordingly. He has set and position the property as one of expertise through his tenure with leading moves to the neww rroleole frfromom tthathat of the most sough-after hotels in the city. He brands like Taj Hotels, IHG, Hyatt Complex Director ooff SSalesales and has previously worked with various and McDonald’s International Marketing at Renaissancessance hotels and hotel chains such across Nepal, UAE, Oman and Mumbai and Lakesidekeside as Clarks, ITC, The Citi India. Prior to joining The Fern, Chalet, Mumbai - Marriottarriott Residency and HHI group Karn was with Shanfari Hotels & Executive Apartments.s. of hotels. Resorts, Oman.

MARRIOTT HOTELS EROS HOTEL THE LEELA Kochi Nehru Place, New Delhi Mumbai Abanti Gupta has been appointed as Multi-Property Director Rubina Sharma has been appointed as Director of Sales and The Leela Mumbai has appointed Rohan Joseph as the new of Human Resources for Kochi Marriott Hotel, Courtyard by Marketing at Eros Hotel New Delhi Nehru Place. In the new role, she Head of Catering Sales. A seasoned hospitality professional, he Marriott Kochi Airport Hotel and Port Muziris, A will be responsible for spearheading sales and brings with him over 13 years of rich experience Tribute Portfolio Hotel. With over 25 years of marketing strategies for the hotel. She had been and a wealth of expertise in sales and operations experience in various functions and over 10 Director of Sales at Eros Hotel for the last of events. At The Leela Mumbai, Joseph’s years at the managerial level, Gupta would two years, where she honed her leadership core responsibilities will include revenue and spearhead annual wage cost budgeting, skills and streamlined the activities of inventory management for catering sales, direct employee counselling, stabilise the sales, revenue and reservation planning and execution of events as well as attrition levels and maintain employee teams, and developed a strategic action upselling of hotel services. In the past, he relations for all three hotels. Prior plan for demand generators in the has worked with prestigious hotels and prior to joining the Marriott hotels in Delhi market. Sharma comes to this, Joseph worked as Director of Kochi, she was Director of with a total experience of 16 Catering Sales at The Westin Human Resources at JW years extensively in sales Mumbai Garden City. Marriott Kolkata. and marketing.

Can you name the following places represented by emojis?

USA

Answer: Answer: Can you identify them? Answer: 1. Vigan City 2. Manila 2. City Vigan 1. Venice 4. Singapore 3. Cambridge 2. Muscat 1. Minden 3. Henderson 2. Reno 1.

LASTPAGE 2020 has much to achieve From improving hinterland connectivity and promoting Indian heritage to organising well-targeted conclaves and empowering tourist guides with certiﬁcation programmes, Ministry of Tourism is keeping itself busy.

Nisha Verma Highways Authority or by depending on each of these “In line with the focus on state governments. Discus- markets. We are engaging domestic tourism, we have n recent months, Ministry sions are also on with Min- with tour operators to create also launched the ‘Ek Bharat Iof Tourism has under- istry of Railways to improve and curate itineraries that are Shreshtha Bharat’ quiz up taken a number of steps to facilities at platforms,” specific to these markets,” until June 30, 2020. The idea boost visitor numbers to the she shared. Brar said when talking about is to educate people about country. Of these steps was MOT’s association with the the tourism offerings in the the inauguration of Kutni IITFC travel trade fraternity. “We are country. We encourage eve- Island Resort near Khajuraho, The Incredible India Tourist also in continuous dialogue ryone to join the programme Madhya Pradesh, on January Facilitator Certification (IITFC), with NITI Aayog. There is on mygov.in for this quiz. 18. Sharing details on the which was rolled out on Janu- a lot of organic interaction It’s about 20 questions that project, Rupinder Brar, Ad- ary 1 this year, already has that helps both of us develop tell you about a place and ditional Director General, MOT, 3200 enrolments, revealed our strategies as we move of course, you can also win said, “Kutni Island Resort has Brar. “The programme started forward,” she added. prizes when taking the quiz,” been launched under the fully- off really well and there has she added. funded Swadesh Darshan already been a growing Buddhist Conclave scheme of MOT. The project interest in people to join the This year, MOT is due to has been completed in two programme. Currently, there organise a Buddhist conclave and a half years and is situ- are about 3200 people who that will be held in late Sep- ated on a reservoir. It houses have enrolled,” she said. tember or early October, Brar 10 double-occupancy rooms Commenting on the reaction revealed. While dates have and is a beautiful facility. of existing guides at the not been finalised yet, MOT is We want to encourage people IITFC programme, she said, gearing up for it and expects to visit the destination.” “Typically, to any change active cooperation from all or anything new, there is stakeholders in Domestic projects always a little resistance. the process. Brar revealed that the However, these guides are government is focused on being sensitised to make 20 million by 2024 Despite a growth of 3.2 We are working with MoCA to increase air per cent in 2019, Brar claimed that there is connectivity and with Ministry of Railways to no reason why India could not get 20 improve facilities at platforms million tourists by 2024. “In fact, developing the heritage and them understand that their we are sure culture of India and that there profession in no way going to to cross this are many projects at different be hindered.” target. As stages of completion across long as we the country which are great Working with the trade put the right value additions to the experi- “They are the ones who products, ence of tourists. “We are also execute what we do in right proc- working with Ministry of Civil terms of policy thought and esses and the Aviation (MoCA) to increase vision statements. Hence, right promotions connectivity under UDAN. We we continue to have a lot in place, there is are working with Ministry of of interactive meetings and no reason why we Roads to not only upgrade, workshops. That is an ongo- cannot achieve the but also provide last-mile ing exercise. Also, we are target,” she shared. connectivity to these places working very closely with the that are being developed. We stakeholders in identifying key MOT is also develop- are also working on creating markets from where we can ing the Vision Docu- wayside amenities, whether increase footfalls to India and ment 2020 with the Rupinder Brar maintained by National also create a specific strategy PMO, Brar revealed. Additional Director General, MOT

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: 30-01-2020 Supplement of TravTalk february 1ST Fortnight issue 2020

A DDP PUBLICATION Pages: 4 To London and beyond The two-city VisitBritain India Sales Mission 2020 had in attendance 500 travel agents in all, Mumbai and Delhi included. The objective of the Mission that returned to India after almost four years was to portray a country that went beyond the tourist hotspot of London, with innovative products in tow.

Nisha Verma & Hazel Jain delegation included British Mission was a huge suc- after the World Cup, is great. focus for participants was were working closely with. It DMCs, DMOs, as well as UK cess,” she remarked. “We have been working with leisure, there were a number is largely targeted at the youth isitBritain’s two-city Visas and Immigration.” the UK industry for the past of suppliers with focus on or the ‘buzz seeker’ audience, VIndia Sales Mission in the Shuja Bin Mehdi, B2B two years, trying to convince MICE. There was a big contin- as they fondly call it. More month of January had close Jennifer Huntley, Partnership Manager, VisitBritain - India, them of the potential of the gent from north of England as and more people are also to 45 delegates that included Manager (Asia Pacific, Middle shared that it took them a Indian market that has really well. Marketing Manchester travelling to experience the service providers and repre- East & Asia), VisitBritain, while to reach a full team’s paid dividends today. Once has been working extremely Manchester Derby. sentatives of different prod- seconded Bhatia’s opinion on strength and once that was these suppliers start getting closely with us over the years ucts, attractions, hotels and the response received at the achieved, they decided to go business, especially from the and we had 20-odd suppliers Claiming that the trade should experiences across the United Mission, which came after ahead with the Sales Mission. Indian trade, I am sure we will coming from the north who explore the countryside of Kingdom. Thrilled about the a gap of four years. “We are “We got great support not get an even bigger delegation are capable of accommodat- England, Mehdi said, “They overwhelming response at the really pleased! We had more only from our own team, the next time,” Mehdi said. ing big MICE groups, like should explore Lake District Sales Mission, Vishal Bhatia, people visiting us than we but also from our region. About 60-70 per cent of sup- the Lancashire Cricket Club as a region in the North. Country Manager, India, could have imagined. We had Since the event was so pliers in the roadshow were where the India-Pakistan There is already a huge VisitBritain, said, “We had the people from Visit Portsmouth overwhelmingly successful, first-timers. match took place in June, demand about this region, but biggest-ever contingent from all the way to Shakespeare’s we are thinking of repeat- 2019. The trade was also a lot of it remains unexplored. the UK participating this time, England, Manchester and ing it next year at an even The aim of the Sales Mission able to meet some football The agents should also focus which speaks volumes of the even Scotland. The agents, bigger platform,” he shared. was to project Britain as a ho- clubs that can host big MICE on the highlands of Scotland. demand seen from India and on their part, showed a lot According to him, the kind of listic destination that spreads groups. We had a lot of sup- Visit Scotland was here after the confidence we of enthusiasm in learning interest that has developed beyond London. Bhatia pliers coming in for the first many years as part of our have in the market. The more about Britain. The in India for the UK, especially shared, “While the primary time. This is possibly due to Sales Mission, which is very new air connections launched encouraging. Hence, the fo- recently between India and cus has to shift from London We had 20-odd suppliers coming from the north who are capable of accommodating the UK. The extra load defi- to these cities within the UK, big MICE groups, like the Lancashire Cricket Club. The trade was also able to meet some nitely helps to grow demand.” like Manchester, Liverpool, He added that the Premier Edinburgh, Glasgow and also football clubs that can host big MICE groups League was something they the countryside.” 2 TravTalk february 1st Fortnight issue 2020 quickbytes Delegates hail the Sales Mission Both buyers and suppliers made the most of VisitBritain’s India Sales Mission 2020. While buyers were exuberant at the choice of offerings the British delegation had in store for them, from unique experiences to exclusive hotels, suppliers were overwhelmed by the response they received. Buyers I am impressed with how VisitBritain has put up a very I could see that the delegates were more focused on good roadshow. They always have a very good contingent of Scotland, Lake District, Manchester as well as other new suppliers and I am proud that they have got new products. destinations, and that’s the kind of information and educa- Each time that there are new products, UK and Britain al- tion required. There were a lot of suppliers from Manches- ways become a very comfortable country to sell for tour op- ter and other destinations, who have shown a lot of interest erators. This time, they had people from Manchester, Lake in the Indian market. Some of the suppliers have already District, Scotland, Liverpool and other places. I could see been active in the Indian market, and there were new faces that they were going beyond London. A lot of Indians go as well. We will take forward the communication with them Guldeep Singh Sahni to London, and keep going, which will not stop. Of course, Samina Munshi and possibly do good business. It’s a very good time of the Managing Director adding a new dimension to London is also very good. I think Director year to have such a roadshow since everybody is getting Weldon Travels they had a good selection of sellers and suppliers, which is a N Chirag Travels ready for the season and preparing itineraries, allowing us to very good thing for the industry. add new experiences and products for our clients.

I am very happy that the VisitBritain team in India With the kind of product offerings that are in the UK, I managed to bring such a diverse mix of suppliers to India. believe that the delegation could be much larger and that The event was very informative and helps us in creating more suppliers could be added in the future. VisitBritain is more exciting itineraries for clients. Most of the suppli- also one of the major partner countries with GPS, and we’ve ers are from outside London, which makes it even more seen traction from the tertiary markets also grow towards interesting since our clients are always looking for new the destination. I met representatives of some of the new experiences to indulge in when they are travelling. For in- offerings and products in the UK. Britain is very close to stance, I found the Bicester Village fascinating as they also the hearts of Indian travellers and last year, we saw a huge offer a VIP service which is especially good for high-end jump because of the World Cup and this year as well, we are clients. It also has a good variety of brands for shopping. Jitul Mehta expecting some good numbers to travel to the UK. Hence, Harmandeep Singh Anand Proprietor Managing Director, GPS and Apart from cricket, football is also big among Indians and VP Travels such roadshows, just before the season, do help in increas- Jagsons Travels, Nagpur Manchester is the place for it. ing the traction to the destination.

The Sales Mission was fantastic! VisitBritain has done the We look forward to VisitBritain roadshows that take roadshow on a big scale in both Mumbai and Delhi, and the place in India and attend them without fail. This time, it was footfall has been fantastic. People love to go to the UK and very good as I met quite a few suppliers who were new to prefer it over Europe. Punjab is a very big market for the UK us. There were new serviced apartments, shopping experi- and people go there to meet their relatives. In addition, they ences, plus a lot of DMCs and hotels as well as castles that take tours of 7-10 days to Scotland, Ireland, Liverpool and we hadn’t seen before. I found the London Designer Outlet Manchester. The best part is that there is Indian food avail- very interesting which I wasn’t aware of until now. It has able everywhere. Transportation is not a problem because been around in Wembley for the last six years! It is a perfect there are national railways, buses and other means of trans- fit for the Indian clientele as it offers medium-range brands Ashwani Gupta port, which are not very expensive. Earlier, we were only Jagat Mehta apart from premium brands, although for the high-end ones, Managing Partner President Dove Travels, Amritsar selling London, Scotland and some parts of Glasgow and Trans Travel Corporation the Bicester Village is very good. We also met quite a few Edinburgh or Dublin, as well as other bigger cities. Now, British countryside hotels in Lake District. people are asking for self-drive tours to new places.

I am very happy because this is a big team that has come This year’s roadshow has brought in a lot of niche sup- down from the UK, and a showcase like this has happened pliers and a lot of local experiences that we can now start after a long time. I am glad to see Lake District come up as a selling to our clients. It is not just about London – there is destination. This is one region that we were not effectively do- Liverpool and Manchester. Even in terms of business, there ing earlier. The Mission gave us an opportunity to make new are new serviced apartments and shopping outlets like the contacts and get a lot of information, which we can use for London Designer Outlet at Wembley Park, which also offers our 2020 itineraries more effectively in selling London and the accommodation and incentives for groups. There are a lot of UK as a product. We have already been selling UK for a long other new experiences that we have liked, which are much time, and I am sure Lake District is going to be there on every suited to our client profile. We do have a lot of groups that go itinerary because it comes with self-drive itineraries. We do a Monia Kapoor to London regularly, but henceforth we will be pushing the Henna Adl Karim Managing Director Head – Product Development lot of RV and coach rentals, and we have tied up with a few Travel O Holidays smaller cities as well. Creative Tours & Travels (India) companies, which we will put into effect in 2020. quickbytes february 1st Fortnight issue 2020 TravTalk 3 Suppliers Since 2013, Manchester has seen growing numbers Off the back of the Cricket World Cup last year that from India with over 280 per cent growth. We are looking at was hosted in the UK, we have had a few Fam trips for the the main cities of Mumbai and New Delhi, but also Tier-II Indian trade to Liverpool. The feedback that we have had cities that are driving capacity into the UK. Currently, the from those hosted trips has been really positive. They saw average Indian tourist to the UK spends an average of £960 a massively exciting destination with a vibrant nightlife. per visit. So ideally, we want to attract these visitors to ex- At the moment, football is very popular among Indian plore Manchester for four nights. In fact, Manchester is a tourists mainly because of the success of the Liverpool gateway for a wider UK experience with most heritage cities team. The stadium tour has been doing really well. In fact, and countryside within a couple of hours. ‘Accompany Us’ the first thing the agents want to talk about is football and, Victoria Braddock is our MICE specialist who will study the potential for that Sam O’Brien of course, the Strawberry Fields made famous by The Director of International Marketing Assistant Marketing, Marketing Manchester segment from India. We also have a training module called Marketing Liverpool Beatles. So, while we do get Indian tourists, I feel we ‘Manchester Master’ for the trade. can do a lot more.

The interest in UK-wide itineraries as opposed to We get a lot of queries from the trade about the visa pro- London-only as well as the number of nights people stay cess, turnaround time and cost. But, the visa fee is set by the in the country and in London has increased dramatically. UK Parliament. In fact, this year, VFS VACs will run six days So, we have benefitted by an increase in business at all our a week from 8am to 10pm. There are currently 18 perma- palaces, predominantly the Tower of London, from India nent centres in India and we are opening a centre in Noida, market. We are also promoting Hampton Court Palace as ready for peak in March. We did 512,000 visitor visas in 2019 this is a special year for us, promoting it as part of London’s and the majority came through agents. So, we are seeing at countryside which is celebrating the 500th anniversary of the least 10 per cent growth year-on-year. We work with agents Field of Cloth of Gold, and we are staging the rematch. This for our MICE schemes applicable for groups that are above takes place in May with an all-inclusive admittance fee to Ann S Wilson 150 pax. We have started training 30 additional decision- David Ratcliffe Head of Sales Regional Director, South and the palace that includes games such as Tudor games, kite- Historic Royal Palaces makers on top of our 67 currently based at the High Com- South-East Asia UK Visas & flying and drinking around the wine fountain. mission in Delhi. Immigration

The VisitBritain Sales Mission has been a great oppor- We are looking to increase the number of nights that Indi- tunity for us to showcase the product that we have, and also an visitors are spending with us. We have got a great response an opportunity for the Indian market to understand better at this mission in both Delhi and Mumbai. It’s been interest- the products we can offer with regard to ticketing, hospi- ing to meet with those buyers who haven’t heard of Lake Dis- tality and events. We want to showcase what Manchester trict before or haven’t been visiting us already. It is important and North of England have to offer. We are closely working for us to showcase what our product is and the accessibility with VisitBritain so that they understand more about us and from routes such as London or Scotland, in order to see how what we can offer to the Indian market. We are trying to we can be incorporated in those itineraries. VisitBritain has educate ourselves about the businesses within India, DMCs been giving us all the market insights and research, which is Angela Hodson in England, as well as Marketing Manchester, so that we can Francine Bult Head of Sales, Lancashire Sales & Marketing Executive what we need to develop our product offerings and transfer Cricket, Emirates Old Trafford support each other to create products that are going to open Visit Lake District, Cumbria that product knowledge to partners and buyers, and tailor up different experiences to the Indian market. those experiences according to their needs.

We are here to see how we can adapt our products or The response has been overwhelming. It’s been nice what we can do to improve our services in the Indian mar- to come and talk to so many enthusiastic travel agent part- ket. There seems to be a huge amount of interest in our ners who have heard of Birmingham as well as the west of products, which is brilliant. Since we are based in Lake Midlands. My job is to ensure that the travel trade has the District, we are ideally situated between London and correct information, and if there are any enquiries in our Edinburgh. Hence, a lot of itineraries go up to Scotland, destination, I can put them in contact with the right person, and we are an ideal stop-over. The Lake District is such a as well as help with images, videos, destination and itiner- beautiful area in the north of England and we are seeing a ary planning. One of the key events coming up in the next lot of interest from tour operators who have already been few years is the Birmingham Commonwealth Game in 2022, there and those who don’t know about it. The sales mis- Jennifer Cormack which is going to be a key focus for us going forward. I’ve Zoey Harris Sales & Marketing Director Tourism Projects Manager sion has been fantastic, as it allowed us to showcase our Windermere Lake Cruises had many agents saying that this is an event that the Indian Visit Birmingham product and our area. market is excited about.

For us in Manchester, 2019 has been the most incred- Shakespeare’s England is part of the Midlands area ible year in terms of the Indian market. The most impor- and 27 per cent of all the Indians living in the UK are tant part of our year was the India vs Pakistan cricket match living in Midlands. Hence, we have massive VFR, but we in June 2019 at Emirates Old Trafford cricket ground—an have also seen constant growth, particularly from the FIT event that has put Manchester on the map in the eyes of the point of view. The VisitBritain Sales Mission was fantastic Indian visitor. This year, we are trying to really build on the and the huge turnout meant that Indian agents are really interest that came from the cricket game to showcase every- interested in the UK market and we want to develop and thing else that the city and the region has to offer. We came grow those partnerships. With these many people, I am to the VisitBritain roadshow in full force with three people sure we’d get good business returns. There was a great Tim Manley talking about three different kinds of offerings. We are en- Helen Peters response from the agents and I am glad that many of them Marketing Manager Chief Executive Officer Marketing Manchester gaging with the agents through Fam trips, participating in Shakespeare’s England are aware that Birmingham is going to be the host city for Explore GB and other roadshows in India. the Commonwealth Games in 2022. 4 TravTalk february 1st Fortnight issue 2020 familyalbum