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Vol. XXVII Issue 21; November 1st fortnight i ssue 2015 A DDP PUBLICATION Pages : 96+24 Pages Supplement ` 50/- ddppl.com TravTalkIndia.com FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 2 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout11/2/201510:21AMPage3 Joint Secretary, ofTourism Ministry Suman Billa ‘Land ofyoga&wellness’atWTM inaugurating thesecondeditionofWest IndiaTravel Awards, heldrecentlyatTheGrandMercureGoaShrem Resort. (L-R): Mrs.India2015Tanushree SanJeetwithArjunSharma, Pandey, DilipParulekar, NikhilDesai,KamalHingorani,Rohan Sable West India Travel Awards inGoa ddppl.com who gatherevery year in national travel professionals nesses acongregation ofinter- World Travel Market (WTM)wit- B Suman Billainforms thatyoga willbetheevent’s andwellness tourism highlight. India attendsthe World Travel Market London2015withapromisingagenda. A 2-5, 2015,inLondon,the eing hostedfromNovember HANA G URUNG a bigsplashatthe WTM this plans to create brigade tourism of Tourism, theIndiantravel and Billa and conductbusiness. November negotiate tonetwork, , JointSecretary, Ministry According to Suman the private sector. Alongside, we from received alotofsupport around 800squaremetresfor says. “We alsohave aspaceof the Tourism Ministerhimself,” he will beattending WTM, ledby year. “A hugeIndiandelegation the Indianpavilion andhave

Contd. onpage48 TravTalkIndia.com NOVEMBER 1 buyer andgive themapreview whole ideaistotargetevery Indian food willbeserved. The Incredible Indiadecorand space willbebranded by lounge thisyear wherethe theBuyers’are sponsoring Club , and Harmandeep SinghAnand , andHarmandeep ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE2015 TRAV TALK 3 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 4 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 5 BULLETIN Sikkim's 1st airport by Dec 2016 The 4th edition of International Tourism Mart 2015 saw participation from 52 international delegates, comprising of tour operators from 23 countries.

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he mart, organised by the TMinistry of Tourism (MOT) in association with the Northeastern states and the state of West Bengal, was inaugurated by Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State for Tourism and Culture (Independent Charge) and Civil Aviation, along with Pawan Chamling, Sikkim Chief Minister, in Gangtok, The centre will work to create Northeast region in terms of Cambodia, France, Germany, Sikkim. At the inauguration, better road connectivity for the all aspects–tourism, educa- Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Dr. Sharma said that the mart public through National tion, health, transport net- Malaysia, Nepal, New helps to showcase to the Highways for the North East. works, telecommunications, Zealand, Norway, Russia, world the rich and untapped He assured that he will dis- information technology, elec- Singapore, South Korea, potential of the Northeastern cuss the matter of road con- tricity grids, flow of investment Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, states. He said that promoting nectivity with the concerned and trade and everything else UK, USA and Vietnam. Post- tourism in these states will be ministry. Dr. Sharma appreci- that is needed to harness its Mart Fam trips to the states one of the prime focus areas ated the fact that Sikkim is economic and commercial have been arranged for the of MOT. He said that improving soon going to become the first potential and raise the stan- delegates from overseas to connectivity is key to promot- cent per cent organic state dards of living of our people create awareness about the ing tourism in the Northeast. in the country. in this region. rich and varied tourism The minister informed that products of the Northeastern Sikkim will have its own airport Vinod Zutshi, Tourism The delegates at the region and to give them a in Pakyong, 35 km away from Secretary, MOT said that the mart came from Australia, first-hand experience of Gangtok by December 2016. Government is developing the Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, the destination. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 6 STATISTICS FTAs continue strong growth According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) VIEWPOINT from Jan-Sept 2015 registered a growth of 4.6 per cent over the same period last year. The highest number of tourists arrived on e-Tourist Visa (eTV) eTV ensures from the US during Jan-Sept.

inbound booms Percentage share of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India during September 2015 he Government of India launched tourist Singapore Pakistan Afghanistan Visa on Arrival enabled by Electronic France 2.13 1.61 FTAs during Sept 2015 were T Nepal 2.39 1.27 Travel Authorization (ETA), presently known 2.44 540,000 as compared to FTAs of 509,000 during Sept 2014 as the e-Tourist Visa scheme (eTV) on Canada 2.51 and 454,000 in Sept 2013. November 27, 2014. The eTV facility is There has been a growth of 6.1 making sure that visa issues don’t pose a Germany per cent in Sept 2015 over the Bangladesh hindrance for foreign tourists. As it extends 2.89 same period last year. FTAs to more countries, it is evident that tourism Japan 18.81 during the period Jan-Sept occupies pride of place in the country’s 3.2 2015 were 5,608,000 showing a China USA growth of 4.6 per cent over priority list. At present e-Tourist Visa facility Sri Lanka is available for citizens of 113 countries 3.37 UK 10.99 Jan-Sept 2014. Bangladesh 4.69 Malaysia 7.96 topped the list of source arriving at 16 airports in India. Australia 4.72 countries for FTAs, followed by There were 5,608,000 Foreign Tourist 3.39 China, UK, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Arrivals (FTAs) from Jan-Sept 2015, in fact among others. during September 2015 India received 540,000 FTAs compared to 509,000 during September 2014 and 454,000 in September 2013. Out of these 5,608,000 FTAs a total of 2,01,705 tourists arrived on e-Tourist Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India during September 2015 among Visas as compared to 19,290 during the the top 15 ports Ahmedabad same period last year, registering a growth Airport Ghojadanga 1.35 Land check post of 945.6 per cent. The percentage share of Tiruchirapalli Trivandrum Airport 1.26 AttariWagha Land check post Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) during The percentage share 1.94 1.55 Gede Rail 1.05 September 2015 among the top 15 source of FTAs in India during Amritsar countries was highest from Bangladesh 2.02 Airport Sept 2015 among the top 0.75 (18.81%), followed by USA (10.99%) and 15 ports was highest at Hyderabad Airport the UK (7.96%) among others. Delhi Airport followed by 3.03 Mumbai Airport, Foreign Exchange Earning (FEE) during Cochin Airport Haridaspur land 3.23 Delhi Airport the month of September 2015 was $1.436 check post, Chennai 30.08 billion. FEE from tourism in January- Airport, Bengaluru Chennai Airport September 2015 was $14.453 billion Airport, Kolkata Airport, Kolkata Airport 4.02 8.91 Haridaspur showing a growth of 3.2 per cent over the among others. These top Land check Mumbai Airport same period during 2014. 15 ports account for post 17.21 93.54% of total FTAs Bengaluru 10.57 Airport The rising FTA rate is clearly due to the during Sept 2015. steady performance of the Indian economy, 6.57 which has brought about industrial growth and economic development, leading to the emergence of India as one of the most promising markets in tourism in the very near Percentage share of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India during September 2015 future. Contrary to the belief that tourism in India is still restricted to traditions, this industry Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) during the is booming with new domestic and month of Sept 2015 were US$ 1.436 billion. FEEs international airlines offering affordable fares from tourism in Jan-Sept 2015 were US$ 14.453 and all kinds of innovative packages to woo billion showing a growth of 3.2 per cent over the same inbound visitors into India. With better period during 2014. FEEs during Sept 2015 were ` 9,512 crore as compared to ` 9,057 crore in connectivity and hotel accommodation September 2014. The growth rate in FEEs in rupee available in every segment, not only in metros terms during September 2015 over September 2014 but tier II/III cities also, we can only move was growth of 5 per cent. FEEs from tourism in forward, providing jobs and livelihood to many rupee terms in Jan-Sept 2015 were ` 91,737 and creating a new class of skilled youth… crore showing a growth of 3.2 per cent over the same period during 2014. Source: Ministry of Tourism

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STATES NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 7 Telangana seeks guidance from agents B. Venkatesham, Secretary Tourism and Culture, Government of Telangana, was in Delhi recently to promote the Bathukamma festival. He urges travel agents to coach the new state and says that if everything goes well, 2017 will be ‘Visit Telangana Year.’

SAMAPTI D AS economical or exorbitant and celebrated only by women and men in the family we are the most enthusi- relationship between earth, water luxurious. We as a new state, urge are only spectators. astic and most active. and human beings. Telangana is the youngest the agents to guide us and become QIndian state. What are you our coaches. Are you planning to Tell us about the This is an ideal occasion to visit doing to promote it? Qparticipate in the foreign QBathukamma festival Telangana which offers its visitors a Telangana is the youngest state What are you doing to attract travel marts? It is a festival of Telangana plethora of places of pristine natural of India but it is a confluence of all reli- Qmore foreign tourists? We are participating in all the for- celebrated by women, with flowers beauty, abundant wildlife, magnificent gions, nationalities, languages and We are trying to bring out eign marts as well as the domestic that grow exclusively in each palaces and forts reflecting architec- regions. It is a place where everyone our past glories and cultural ones. We participated in ITB Berlin region of the state. It is a symbol tural blends along with immense is comfortable. It has the most hos- ethos like the Bathukamma and now we are participating in WTM of Telangana’s cultural identity opportunities to explore its artistic and pitable climate. We are working on festival which is a unique festival London also. Being the youngest kid and thus exalts the inherent cultural enrichment. massive urban forestation in order to maintain that. If everything goes well, we will declare 2017 as ‘Visit Telangana Year.’

B. Venkatesham Secretary Tourism and Culture, Government of Telangana

We are inviting all the travel agents to host their annual conferences and regular meetings in Hyderabad, We urge agents to guide us and become our coaches

What is the USP of QTelangana as a tourism destination? I think Telangana is the most suitable state of India for a better livelihood. It is a melting point of India. Secondly, it is the best MICE destination in India. The HICC is capable of handling almost 10,000 delegates which no other convention centre in any part of India has. Telangana has epic cultural, architectural and sculptural capacities. We have a great historical past in Warangal and adjoining areas. We offer Medical Tourism also. Hyderabad has low cost medical facilities as compared to other states of India. The real estate is the cheapest.

How closely are you Qworking with the travel agents? We are inviting all the travel agents to host their annual conferences and regular meetings in Hyderabad. Telangana can accommodate all kinds of tourists, whether FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 8

8 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 STATES Goa betting big on MICE, adventure This year Goa Tourism is participating in World Travel Market (WTM) London 2015 and plans to showcase an all-new portfolio of facets to impress global visitors from far and wide. Ameya Abhyankar, Director of Tourism, Goa, tells us about the initiatives to make Goa the top tourist destination.

VA ISHALI D AR Goa is abuzz with activi- performance and authentic ties for several reasons which dinner, followed by informal oa is taking tourism to the mainly include: Adventure interaction with tourism Gworld in a new avatar. Year Tourism (Hot Air Balloons, officials, offering the country after year, Goa Tourism partic- Amphibious Vessels), ropeways, a true flavour of Goa,” ipates in leading global events bungee jumping, scuba diving, says Abhyankar. for the travel industry. “Yes, horse riding, and initiatives such Goa Tourism is participating at as Segway Tours, Seaplanes As per the latest inbound numbers, a total of 4,058,226 arrived in Goa in 2014, domes- The interaction consists of a tic check-ins were 3,544,634 presentation on Goa, screening of a and foreign arrivals were 513,592. Prime international film on Goa, entertainment source markets for Goa performance and authentic include Russia, the UK, Germany, France, Middle dinner, followed by informal tination all through 2015. The e- women taxi service. Goa over 70 sub-categories, with East and South East Asia. interaction with tourism Tourist Visa (eTV) facility has Tourism showcases its clean many parallel artistic and fun “Due to several geo-political proven to be a big boon for Goa. beaches as a result of events and activities. factors there has been a dip in officials, offering the country a “Within a short span of eight the Comprehensive Beach foreign tourist arrivals. But this true flavour of Goa. months as many as 17,100 Cleaning Management Plan Goa Tourism gives an is a temporary phase and the eTVs have been issued at and other Clean Beach opportunity to the tour and coming season should be bet- Ameya Abhyankar the Goa Airport in Dabolim,” Initiatives. Goa Tourism will be travel operators to promote ter. We could hope for a 10 per Director of Tourism, Goa says Abhyankar. celebrating art and culture with their products and services. cent growth or even more in Delphic Games in February “B2B interactions and partici- international tourist arrivals. For the safety and securi- 2016. The 5th Youth Delphic pation in travel trade shows, The e-Tourist Visa regime ty of tourists, the government Games is the world's only com- networking events gives a per- introduced by the central gov- WTM 2015,” says Abhyankar, among others are on the anvil. has made arrangements for mon floor for art and culture fect platform to showcase ernment which has now “and this year too we are A hotspot for weddings and cel- beach patrol with 676 life which is coming to India for the products to the masses. The extended eTV benefits to 113 proudly showcasing all new ebrations, the state has bagged guards and an additional 117 first time. It will attract 125 coun- interaction consists of a pres- countries will boost numbers portfolios with facets which will several awards as a leading personnel on beach patrol till tries with over 7,000 partici- entation on Goa, screening of in the coming season,” impress global visitors.” wedding and honeymoon des- midnight, tourist police and pants, six art categories and a film on Goa, entertainment explains Abhyankar. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 9

EDUCATION NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 9 Tourism manpower short by 5 million Looking at the National Skill Development Council’s studies on skill gap, Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (Independent Charge) and Parliamentary Affairs, Govt. of India, suggests that 12 weeks of skill training is as important as 12 years of secondary education to make people employable.

KANCHANNATH important. The prime minister Enumerating the indus- the next five years, assuming “We have 310 million one, two or three months. So in feels that though 12 years of tries that need employment, that the rate of growth people who need to be trained the next five years you need omparing figures of skill secondary education may be he said, “We are talking about goes up by eight per cent. immediately. So out of every `5,00,000 crore just to address Cdevelopment across the very important, it is 12 weeks 500 million people to be And 1.7 crore people are 100 people that you need to the basic training of these peo- globe, the Minister says, of our training that will make trained in India which is a required in the retail sector, train, 30 can pay for them- ple. Somehow we have failed to “Even in China which has a you employable. That is the dif- huge number. If you look at one million in furniture fur- selves. The other 70 have to be integrate vocational education population of about four billion ference we are talking about. the skill gap studies done by nishings, one crore in textiles, paid for. This means that 230 as aspirational at the school now, 46 per cent of the work Have we gone wrong some- the National Skill five million skilled people in million people have to be paid educational level. People force is skilled. By skilled, I where in making education Development Council, the tourism and hospitality, five for. On an average after school kept harping on finishing mean employed. United aspirational, but not skills that construction sector requires million people in automotive education, you require `20,000 degrees even as unemploy- States has a 58 per cent make you employable?” about three crore people over care and so on. per head to train one person in ment rises.” skilled workforce, Germany has about 70 per cent, UK has about 68 per cent, Japan 80

Rajiv Pratap Rudy Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (Independent Charge), and Parliamentary Affairs, Govt. of India

The prime minister feels that though 12 years of secondary education may be very important, it is 12 weeks of our training that will make you employable

per cent and Korea has 96 per cent. However, in India the percentage of skilled workers stands at only a dismal four and half per cent of the world’s skilled force.”

Reemphasising on skill enhancement, Rudy says, “In the last 68 to 69 years, the country has been stressing on education as being most

Need for Skill 500 million people need to be trained in India 1.7 crore people are required in the retail sector, one million in furniture furnishings, one crore in textiles, five million skilled people are required in tourism and hospitality, five million people in automotive care FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 10

10 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 QUICKBYTES Incredible foot forward @WTM London As WTM London is set to welcome travel and tourism industry professionals from across the globe, speaks to the Indian travel trade to find out about their expectations from the event.

TT BUREAU roomsXML.com has been exhibiting This year I expect WTM to be far better at WTM for the past several years. As than previous years particularly for We are participating in always we expect to meet some of our India. All sources of advertising are WTM with a lot of enthusi- global clients and also showcase our attracting tourists to India but I person- asm and optimism with our recent innovations to potential clients. ally feel that India shall witness a signif- new itineraries supported roomsXML.com anticipates that India's icant growth with the e-Tourist Visa on by our value added fea- inbound tourism will grow in 2016 due arrival now in operation for many promi- tures which make our pro- to certain measures taken by our gov- nent countries. I would also like to wit- grammes more fascinat- ernment like the e-Tourist Visa facility. ness travel technology developments ing. One of the key points In anticipation of the inbound demand, roomsXML.com has and get an exposure on the innovations of strength of SenKay scaled up its inventory of luxury Indian hotels (4,273 hotels as in technology in the global scenario Tours and Travels is to be distinctive in enriching the on October 15, 2015). itineraries with something special of greater intensity. Ankush Nijhawan We do believe that the choice of itineraries is impor- Prakash Bang Managing Director, Nijhawan Group tant, but not more than their contents. Hence in our Managing Director, roomsXML Solutions role as DMC, we keep our partner tour operators consistently updated about our value added features WTM is a perfect platform to connect and the latest infrastructure in the country through Since TraveLibro is a unique brand with existing and prospective clients, the efforts of our research and development team. and one of the first to cater to trav- industry associates and trade part- el social networking out and out, ners. During this period, we also get Anil Kumar the strategy is to spread the word an opportunity to get an insight of the Director - Marketing, Operations, out. We want to reach out to world- changing trends of the industry. This Product Development and Finance Contracting SenKay Tours and Travels wide agents, tourism boards, and time we are showcasing our two sig- bloggers to spread awareness. We nature products which are Travel Cloud would like to educate the agents Suite (TCS) and Travel Assist. and tour operators across the Inbound tourism performance in India globe on how they can improve their business sitting in their has shown some remarkable growth in the past. India has some office through our website. great potential in this sector in future. Monish B. Shah Meenu Sachdeva Chairman and MD, TraveLibro Managing Director, TI Infotech Contd. on page 12 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 11 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 12

12 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 QUICKBYTES Identifying global trends @WTM

Contd. from page 10

We will showcase all three properties at WTM. We have been regularly participating in WTM They are Hotel Pushkar Palace, Jagat Palace since we have a diversified portfolio of hotels and Royal Desert Camp. We always show- catering to the inbound leisure traveller. The case these properties at international fairs like objective of participation is to enhance our WTM. We also have online presence. We want brand visibility in the overseas markets and people who visit WTM like travel agents from to meet up with foreign tour operators pro- around the globe, to know about us and visit moting India and update them on new hotel our properties. We are hopeful that this time openings. With increased focus of the the mart will be much better than last year. Government in promoting India and the fact that global economy is showing signs of Jagat Singh Rathore recovery, we expect 2016 to be much better in terms of foreign We have been participating in major CEO, Hotel Pushkar Palace international travel marts to promote arrivals and spends. Maharashtra in the international mar- Pradeep Kalra ket. It gives us a great platform to sell Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing our products to the international travel Sarovar Hotels trade. We have been working on a lot As hotel exhibitors, we have been participat- of tourism products to promote our ing in World Travel Mart (WTM) in London for state and I am happy to inform that we decades in order to boost our visibility and are also looking at the possibility of saleability amongst the buyers. Our expec- developing mining tourism in tations have remained the same over the Our hotel has a host of indoor and outdoor Maharashtra in some of the coal mines years, i.e., the event will help us further boost facilities including an authentic Ayurveda of Vidharba region in Chadrapur or our visibility in the international market and centre, large swimming pool, mountain bik- Yavatmal area. WTM is also an oppor- also grow overall inbound numbers. ing, jogging court, bird watching and nature tunity to enhance knowledge and iden- walk trail. We also offer detoxifying mas- Last year, we witnessed a growth of 10.20 tify new trends in the global market of sages, rejuvenation treatments, organic per cent in inbound arrivals despite it being an election year and signif- travel and hospitality industries. I per- meals, yoga experience, meditation, and icantly improving upon the previous two years when arrivals grew by sonally feel that the organisers must wellness guidelines. 4.3 per cent and 5.9 per cent in 2012 and 2013 respectively. recognise regular participants, be more A. Shelly Thenuwara We expect a better growth this year. In India we have of plenty and co-operative and to not evaluate every- Managing Director therefore, her diversity of tourism products is what I see as greatest thing in terms of money. Tree of Life Nature Resort pull for international tourists. Paraag Jaiin Nainutia MD, Maharashtra Tourism Development S N Srivastava Corporation President & Co-founder, Clarks Inn Group of Hotels Contd. on page 15 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 13 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 14 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 15

QUICKBYTES NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 15 Foreign arrivals aplenty in 2016

Contd. from page 12

We are looking forward to the tourists from the Particularly for singular hotels, platforms like UK and Europe to newer destinations like WTM provide relevant business opportunity Madhya Pradesh and hope for good growth to maintain contact and meet a qualified dias- of this market which is low at the moment. We pora of travel professionals globally. Backed are expecting a growth in India inbound by stable socio-economic environment where tourism as this year. IATO showcased MP as India is seen as a destination for international a destination to inbound agents beyond investment and positive travel sentiment, we Bhopal. Indore, Ujjain, Omkareswar, Mandu are hopeful to witness a positive growth, both and many more are in focus now. There are in business and leisure in-bound travel. popular destination in India for inbound tourism International travel to India is maturing with tourists going beyond the The prospects for inbound tourism in like Rajasthan, Kerala and MP, one can travel to MP year round for its obvious itineraries. Some of the emerging circuits include extended the year 2016 look very bright driven Night Food Market (Sarafa) and other activities like pilgrimage. itineraries into Rajasthan spanning across Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner by steady flow of foreign tourists. Going and Shekhawati belt; culture and heritage travel to Hampi, Varanasi; Vishal Kumar by the recent booking trends, it indi- Group Head, Sales & Marketing, Sayaji Group of Hotels Buddhist Circuit in and around Bihar and wildlife across Gujarat and cates one of the best years in terms of Madhya Pradesh. inbound tourism with major interna- Saurabh Rai tional meets being planned which will Area Managing Director, Preferred Hotels & Resorts bring a lot of international tourists to WTM is a great platform to bring together India. All these factors indicate healthy travel professionals from across the globe growth over the past few years. The under one roof. For the past six years we e-Tourist Visa scheme has eased the are participating in WTM as an exhibitor. Just giving eTV is not a solution to boost attaining of visas for those looking to This year also, we expect to get better inbound tourism. Yes, it is beneficial and is visit India. Promotion campaigns mar- response and generate more business. In the first and a very important step. But unless keting India as an exotic destination the inbound space, operators are moving there is a co-ordinated National Policy which have also played their role. Domestic towards automation in their backend is applicable to all state tourism boards, it is stability and relative inexpensive value processes and providing online services of no use. It is very important to ensure that of rupee in terms of major foreign cur- to their clients irrespective of their physical the focus is on development of the appropri- rencies is also an important factor in presence. This change in approach has made India as one of the most ate infrastructure to make a tourist feel at making India an attractive destination. searched and desired destination to visit, thus increasing the inbound home, apart from marketing and promotional activities to attract them. Rishi Puri tourism to India. Vice President Abhishek Jangid Mahendra Vakharia Lords Hotel and Resorts VP – Sales & Marketing, QuadLabs Technologies MD, Ahmedabad-based Pathfinders Holidays and Chairman Western Chapter, OTOAI FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 16

16 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 GUEST COLUMN JAL, Vistara connect Kolkata to Varanasi on a river cruise Tokyo to 11 Indian cities Since 2009, Heritage River Cruises, and now its sister company, Heritage Vistara has entered a formal River Journeys, have sought to bring diverse historical and life experiences partnership agreement with Japan Airlines (JAL) allowing for contemporary travellers on river cruise ships. passengers on JAL’s daily direct services between Tokyo (Narita) and Delhi to connect with eritage River Cruises and tle explored part of east- Vistara to 11 Indian cities. To fur- HHeritage River Journeys ern India. During all this ther enhance its presence in have sought to imagine growth, the companies Japan, Vistara has appointed Air diverse historical and life have tried to keep the System Inc. (ASI) as its new Phee Teik Yeoh experiences for travellers on environmental and social General Sales Agent (GSA) in CEO their cruise ships, the RV impact of tourism on the Vistara the country. ASI will now provide Bengal Ganga and the MV communities along the Vistara with reservations, ticket- are thrilled to have established Ganges Voyager. The manag- river to a minimum. ing and sales services. “Japan a presence in Japan through the ing director of these compa- Local transport and local is among the fastest growing partnerships with Japan Airlines nies, Raj Singh, started to forms of culture are part travel markets in the world and and ASI. With Vistara’s growing explore river cruising in India of the tourist’s ‘India’ the origin of significant business domestic network, we look for- in the 1990s but earnest experience. ward to providing seamless con- and leisure travel in India,” says exploration of the waters began in the mid-2000s. With Photograph by: Debanjan Das © Heritage River Journeys The ships are staffed the help of the Inland with crew from different Waterways Authority of India, lack of infrastructure were just October and late March when parts of the country, of diverse Inland Water Transport of the some of the difficulties that the river’s waters are plentiful social backgrounds and attract Government of West Bengal the companies and their ships yet calm. The Ganges intrepid travellers who wish to and numerous individuals, he have encountered and dealt Voyager, chartered for the see the Ganga for its famed delved into the possibilities of with to deliver a tourism expe- next four years by the interna- mysticism. All commercial ven- cruise tourism. rience that is of a very high tional tourism organisation tures need to make money. But standard. Each ship has 28 Haimark, is a hotel on water, how we make that money is Sailing on an IWAI sur- cabins, a dining room, a bar, with suites and interior deco- equally important. Our collective vey vessel, he planned an itin- a spa, and viewing decks. ration reminiscent of the Raj. vision is to build companies that erary and imagined anew the There is a crew of 35 on each It sails between Kolkata and do their business honourably, in Phee Teik Yeoh, CEO, Vistara. nectivity for Japanese cus- possibilities of starting pas- vessel which maintains and Murshidabad once a week. an ecologically thoughtful “Cities like Tokyo and Osaka tomers to and from various senger cruising from Kolkata services the ship and its pas- way, as well as bring pleasure account for the majority of traffic parts of India.” In the coming to Varanasi after nearly a sengers. The Bengal Ganga A new vessel, the and the security of a good liveli- coming to India and this trend is months, Vistara plans to open a break of more than a 100 is an expedition river craft, Ganges Voyager II, is about to hood and great travel experi- expected to grow progressively new lounge at Delhi Airport, add years. Pontoon bridges, vary- made entirely out of Burma be launched in 2016. With all ences to many. new aircraft and launch new ing levels of water, different teak and iron. It sails from three traversing the river, with the strengthened coopera- Annapurna Garimella tion between both countries. We domestic routes. regimes of state and central Kolkata to Patna and down- approximately 3,500 passen- Vice President government taxation and the stream to Kolkata between gers a year will travel to this lit- Heritage River Journeys FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 17 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 18

18 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 STATES

London gets third AI flight AP’s ‘Epic Scheme’ for agents from Delhi Andhra Pradesh Tourism is all set to come up with a new Buddhist Circuit and backwater Air India will start a third fre- destination. Neerabh K Prasad, Principal Secretary-Tourism, Government of Andhra Pradesh, quency between Delhi and discusses its new products and ‘Epic Scheme’ that urges travel agents to partner with the state London from November 1, 2015. The flight will operate to develop tourism. daily with a B-777- 200Lr aircraft. There is already a daily Mahayana sect of Buddhism which flight from Mumbai making this KANCHAN NATH AND SAMAPTI DAS began in Amaravati— our new state the fourth daily flight between What are the new initiatives Any travel agent who wants to partner capital. We have fabulous Buddhist India and London. Qthat Andhra Pradesh Tourism with Andhra Pradesh or any other monuments and museums there. There The national carrier is taking? entity providing tourism service in is a tremendous demand for this new will commence operations The Chief Minister recently product including the Nagarjuna Konda between Mumbai and Diu launched the Tourism Mission docu- the state, will be fully supported by which is the remains of the erstwhile from October 26, ment in Vijaywada prescribing the 5, us through awareness, Fam trips Nagarjuna University, Amaravati and the 2015. The state 10 and 15 years’ goals. In the five surrounding areas. The second product carrier had years’ goal, we aim to double our and participation in various exhibi- is targeted to the Hindu diaspora all over tourist arrivals. We are targeting 173 tions, so that they can become the world. People know the importance million tourists by 2020. The tourism of Tirupati but find it difficult to visit. So, policy was also launched which has a effective stakeholders. we are offering an integrated product approached various State lot of incentives and operating benefits. which will include airport transfers, tem- Governments to operate For example, now VAT will be at uni- Neerabh K Prasad ple darshans and pujas, all taken care flights to Tier II and Tier III form five per cent for all the tourism Principal Secretary-Tourism, by AP Tourism. Government of Andhra Pradesh cities under Viable Gap infrastructures. This will be for the exist- Funding (VGF). ing as well as the new units. We are tar- What are the products you geting nearly 10,000 crore invest- offer to attract domestic Subsequently, the gov- ` Q ments in the next few years in the tourists? ernment of Diu has shown a tourism sector itself. There are two new products for keen interest and a 72 seater, ing tourism service in the state, will be Are you introducing any new the India market also. One is ‘Another ATR 72-600 aircraft will start What are the special offers you fully supported by us through aware- product for the international Backwaters’. Everyone knows about operations on the Mumbai-Diu Q Qplan to introduce for travel ness, Fam trips and participation in var- market? Kerala, so we are offering Konaseema route. Other state govern- agents? ious exhibitions, so that they can We are introducing two major surrounded by East and West ments have also shown their We have introduced a new become effective stakeholders. I would products for the international market. Godavari. There are a number of hotels interest and are in the process scheme in the tourism policy called the appeal through you to travel agents One is the Buddhist Circuit. Everyone and house boats around the Godavari of finalizing the terms of ‘Epic Scheme’. Any travel agent who who want to contribute in any manner knows the traditional circuits of delta. We are also positioning operations under the wants to partner with Andhra Pradesh to tourism development in Andhra Bodhgaya, Sarnath in India and Visakhapatnam as a new beach desti- VGF route. or the AP Tourism Development Pradesh to become a member of the Kushinagar, Lumbini in Nepal. But in nation of India and developing a num- Corporation or any other entity provid- ‘Epic Scheme.’ China, Korea or Japan, they follow the ber of beaches there. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 19

HOTELS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 19 Govt support must for inbound growth

With a boost in domestic air connect and airport infrastructure, road transportation and enhanced convention ability, Saurabh Rai, Area Managing Director, Preferred Hotels and Resorts, says an increase in inbound tourists to India is certain.

TT BUREAU deals and packages in right propor- Which are the most popular and wildlife. International travel to value the support from our travel tions, have been instrumental in Qdestinations in India today India has been evolving and there is trade partners and are committed to What are your expectations attracting inbound tourism. India got for inbound tourism? a segment of repeat visitors to India provide them with offers from world Qfrom WTM London? few of the vital travel components There are a certain set of pri- who are now going beyond the obvi- over. We are dedicated to timely WTM continues to be one of the together early in time and the first sub- mary inbound destinations within the ous itineraries. commission payments, up-to-date most relevant travel and tourism plat- segment to do so was the upscale to country that range from the Golden information, and outstanding forms worldwide. Hoteliers eye this luxury hotel segment. It is heartening Triangle up North, Goa on the West Do you offer any special service. We offer an exclusive forum for critical business introduc- to witness a tremendous boost in coast and Kerala down south. State Qdeals or packages to the monthly e-communication for travel tions, building new relationships, other related segments such as Tourism Boards have been playing an travel agents? agents. The itinerary features special negotiating and transacting business. domestic air connect and airport infra- important role in accentuating their Preferred Hotels & Resorts act programs and promotions as well as Our global portfolio of independent structure, road transportation and own tourism attractions, showcasing as the perfect conduit connecting news and updates on our hotels member hotels and resorts has enhanced convention capability. cultures, gourmet, history, landscape travel agents globally. We immensely and resorts. always exhibited a strong interest in participating at WTM. Particularly for singular hotels, such a platform provides a relevant business opportunity to

Saurabh Rai Area Managing Director Preferred Hotels and Resorts

We are dedicated to timely commission payments, up-to-date information, and outstanding service

maintain contact and meet a large qualified diasporas of travel professionals globally.

Are you expecting a Qgrowth in India inbound tourism in 2016? We are bullish on inbound travel prospects for India. Backed by a stable socio-economic environment, as India is seen as one of the foremost destinations for international investment and positive travel sentiment, we are hopeful that India will witness a positive growth, both in business and leisure inbound travel. With tangible support from the Central Government on strategic initiatives like e- Tourist Visa facility, it is quite realistic to expect larger number of arrivals into the country.

What are the factors Qthat help the most in attracting tourists to India? All platforms like travel marts, Incredible India advertising, roadshows, online travel sites, word of mouth, good FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 20 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 21 RAILWAYS Railways’ App services The Minister of Railways launched a number of IT initiatives that reduce the waiting time and also benefit the railways by helping them cope with higher ticket sales using lower investments.

A HANA G URUNG of Northern Railway from today. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, About 50 Currency-cum-coin- Dadar Central, Panvel, Thane ollowing the Prime Minister’s cum-card Ticket Vending and Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, FDigital India vision, Indian Machines (CoTVMs) are now Andheri, Mumbai Central, Railways recently launched a functional over various stations. Borivali, Dadar Western, number of IT-enabled passen- I am also happy to inaugurate Dadar Central, Vasai Road, ger services through video con- the Currency and Coin Bandra, New Delhi and ferencing. Present on the occa- Operated Ticket Vending Nizamuddin stations on Northern Railway, Western Railway and Central Railway. Paperless Season tickets on suburban sections of Western Railway, Central Railway and New Delhi-Palwal Section of Northern Railway can also be booked through the app.

The Railway Minister also launched the Train Enquiry mobile app on iOS sion, Minister of Railways, Machines (CoTVMs), being which was created by Centre Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu installed at various stations of for Railway Information unveiled following the new IT ini- Central and Western Railway,” Systems (CRIS). The mobile tiatives and said, “Moving ahead he elaborated. app is based on the National in the direction of making Digital Train Enquiry System (NTES) India, today, I am happy to inau- Through the UTS, pas- which provides information on gurate the System for Paperless sengers can now avail paper- real time train status through Unreserved Tickets, Paperless less unreserved ticketing serv- various interfaces like nation- Season Tickets and Paperless ices through mobile phones on wide unique rail enquiry num- Platform Tickets through mobile suburban stations over Central ber 139, website, mobile inter- phones, in the Mumbai Railway. Furthermore, paper- faces, touchscreens, face-to- Suburban system of WR and less platforms tickets can also face enquiry and display CR and Delhi – Palwal section be booked for stations like boards at stations. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 22 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 23

STATES NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 23 Odisha Tourism on the anvil A recent World Bank report states that Odisha is the seventh friendliest state in India to do business in. The state government’s newly launched Industrial Policy Resolution 2015 adds to the tourism policy and provides many fiscal benefits for investors.

TT BUREAU the tourism set-up and by meeting international standards spe- n Odisha investors’ confer- cially with regard to safety, Aence, organised by security and hygiene. This is Federation of Hotel & possible with Public Private Restaurant Associations of and Peoples Partnerships India (FHRAI) in Delhi, high- (PPP model). I have been visit- lighted the “ease of doing busi- ing Odisha for many years. ness” in the state. The Odisha Whatever endeavours I have Tourism Policy of 2013 undertaken have been a great declares tourism to be a success with the blessings of means of economic and inclu- Lord Jagannath. The more sive growth. Aiming at the sus- investors experience Odisha, tainable tourism development the more they will understand of the state, the policy invites that the government likes to all stakeholders to participate showcase the tourism and hos- in the development of tourism. pitality potential.” be the focus sector for the state Bhubaneswar is one of the first ous fast trains are connected 448 MBA power is available, L N Gupta, (IAS), for the next five years along planned cities of India like to Bhubaneswar. It also has water is assured and connectiv- Principal Secretary to with auto, agro, food process- Chandigarh. Earlier there used well maintained national high- ity in terms of road infrastructure Government, Skill ing, IT, pharma and handi- to be one flight, today there are ways–NH5 and NH6.” is in place. The construction of Well-connected Development & Technical crafts. It aims at transforming six flights from Delhi, five flights the boundary wall is going on. It Education Department & Odisha into a more vibrant and to Kolkata. More than 40 flights About development plans, will be ready for allocation as The headquarters of the Tourism Department, said, “We industrialised state.” come to Bhubaneswar. In fact he said, “There is a Special soon as the PPP model is set.” South Eastern railways are in the process of amending Air Asia is also thinking of con- Tourism Area near Puri, which is in Odisha and numer- the Tourism Policy 2013 after Talking about infrastruc- necting Bhubaneswar directly is called the Samukha project. TS Walia, former ous fast trains are con- IPR 2015 has come out but for ture and connectivity he said, to Malaysia. Air India has The initial plan was to develop President, FHRAI, said, nected to Bhubaneswar the time being you can look at “The state capital is already started an international 3,000 acres of land. Against “Odisha has historically seen either policy. IPR 2015 Bhubaneswar and the older flight to Abu Dhabi from that, 972 acres has already major transformations in the It also has well main- announces tourism as the pri- parts of the city are 2,600 Bhubaneswar. The headquar- been acquired and is in the gov- ancient past and now is the time tained national high- ority sector, and it is just about years old. There are more than ters of the South Eastern rail- ernment’s possession. IFC is for another major transforma- ways–NH5 and NH6 15 days old. Tourism shall also 300 temples. The new ways is in Odisha and numer- working as a consultant. Around tion in development in terms of FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:21 AM Page 24

24 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 FAMILY ALBUM Agents let their hair down in Mauritius

To build on the success of the recent roadshow and take advantage of the promotional fare offered by Air Mauritius, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) organised a familiarisation trip for tour operators from Delhi and Mumbai in September this year. The agents from Delhi were led by Anuj Singhal of MTPA India, and the Mumbai Group was led by Nelson Samuels of Air Mauritius. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 25 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 26

26 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 HOTELS India a market of choice Gourmet dining in Chennai Jean Michel Cassé, Senior Vice President, Operations – Located 30 kms from the Chennai International Airport, the AccorHotels, India, elaborates on some of the Corporate Social InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram offers world-class Responsibility (CSR) initiatives started by the company. accommodation to discerning guests.

TT BUREAU favourable economic and polit- TT BUREAU mented, “The opening of a spa that offers relaxing thera- ical situation, the sector is on InterContinental Chennai pies including indigenous sea- Kindly elaborate on the crossover of a much nterContinental Hotels Group Mahabalipuram Resort marks inspired beauty treatments and Qthe CSR initiatives of expected growth trajectory. I(IHG) recently announced an important milestone in yoga. The resorts expansive AccorHotels India. the opening of InterContinental IHG’s journey in India. Chennai and versatile indoor and outdoor AccorHotels has been Early signs from the Chennai Mahabalipuram is a city that boasts the perfect venues are ideal for confer- recognised for its corporate government to drive tourism Resort in India. The resort will mix of diversity and culture ences, meetings, and special social responsibility initiatives through several strong policy join InterContinental Mumbai with a glossy layer of cosmo- occasions such as wedding by ‘Team France’ under the initiatives such as the intro- Marine Drive to be the second politan glamour. Whether a celebrations. InterContinental education category for the duction of e-Tourist Visa and Chennai Mahabalipuram offers ‘Accor Centre of HOPE’ by Jean Michel Cassé specific funds for developing three gourmet dining options H.E. François Richier, French Senior Vice President tourist destinations could which includes The Melting Pot Operations – AccorHotels, India Ambassador to India. The bring in stronger demand, with three live kitchens that ‘CSR Impact Prize’ recognises supporting the industry over serves the best in European, the contributions of French Sustainable development and the next 12 to 18 months. South Asian and Peninsular MNCs in India and bestows solidarity are also key priorities India is on a strong economic Indian cuisine, a Chinese awards to recognise the con- at AccorHotels. The group has rebound and remains the Specialty Restaurant, and Tao tributions made by them taken a strong stand on the market of choice. Of Peng & Lounge Bar. through radical and transfor- planet and the communities mative changes in the devel- hosting its hotels with its Planet What are some of your Vijai Singh, GM, opment arena of innovation 21 programme. Qnew initiatives? hotel under the company's lux- business trip, corporate retreat InterContinental Chennai and excellence. The group plans to dou- ury portfolio in India. The resort or a leisure break, our newest Mahabalipuram Resort, said, In your opinion, how ble the network of hotels in is located in a picturesque property in Chennai will offer “The InterContinental brand The Accor Centre of Qhas Indian tourism coming years, across all location overlooking the Bay of unrivalled facilities and access is trusted around the world for Hope provides vocational train- industry changed over the brand categories. We have Bengal on East Coast Road, to many cultural and business its superior service which ing to improve the employabil- past decade? invested in various brands making it one of the most opportunities in one of the guests have come to know ity of young women and men As the domestic and at strategic locations with exclusive properties in the city country’s biggest cities.” and appreciate. The resort from unprivileged backgrounds global travel continues to grow the luxury and upscale and joins the award winning will be one of the first five in the Delhi-National Capital with the rise of the middle segment such as Sofitel InterContinental Hotels & The 105-room resort star beach resorts on the Region and has attracted and class, we particularly see Mumbai BKC and Pullman Resorts around the world. offers a full range of facilities and east coast of India and is fostered talents by developing, growth emerging in Tier II and Delhi Aerocity that is amenities to guests, including sure to offer unforgettable training and motivating people III markets. Given the current scheduled to open in Shantha de Silva, Head an outdoor swimming pool, a memories to the guests to work in the service sector. demand-supply dynamics, November this year. of South West Asia, IHG, com- fully-equipped health club and visiting the city.” FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 27 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 28 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 29 INTERVIEW Next-gen agent has arrived On the sidelines of the Travelport e-volve Middle East Summit 2015 at the Shangri-La Bosphorus Hotel, in Istanbul, Turkey, spoke to Matthew Powell, Senior Director, India, Travelport, about the Indian market and the new age travel agent.

KANCHAN N ATH FROM I STANBUL, TURKEY content that they have not necessarily had before, for eg owell has been working back to Travelport, realising the niche exclusive boutique prop- Pwith Travelport now for over value we offer in the way we erties, smaller properties. 20 years. He wears the product market their product. We offer Airlines have changed so hat as well as the technology a rich and wide range of con- much that the product that the hat and also manages India tent and we have a global airline offers on each plane in from a commercial perspec- presence. I feel that is similar each airline is different. Travel tive. Bullish on the Indian mar- to what is going to happen in agents need to have access to ket, he says, “We have seen India, India has a lot of LCCs, this kind of information while the Indian market grow roughly IndiGo for example have doing the bookings for potential clients. They should be able to pinpoint the value-add of each ticket in terms of space, We believe that the next genera- type of bed, bar, shower, etc. tion travel agent is already they should be able to see pic- here. They do need to have tures and videos and actually say to that traveler, that it’s an more information. They need overnight flight but it’s not to be one step ahead of trav- a flat bed.” ellers. The travelers today He concludes by saying, are savvier than they “We are seeing such a trend to move towards the mobile plat- have ever been. form. Trend is to research for trips on the mobile and go Matthew Powell back to PC and book for cor- Senior Director, India, porate travel. The key remains Travelport for the GDS backend to provide the extensive range of information. Travel agents by 10 to 12 per cent Year-on- recently ordered more than need now to become experts, Year with regard to air travels. 200 new aircrafts. Even as the fully aware of activities and Going forward with the GDP domestic travellers rise, the more. It is truly now the consul- growth that the Government is high yield is going to come tancy side that the agent now trying to achieve, we do not from the US, Europe, Asia and brings to the table.” see this number reducing.” more and that is where Elaborating on the potential of the GDS model really the market he says, “Every makes sense, in providing the traveller on a train in India is a global reach.” Next-gen Agents potential air traveller for the market if the correct price point Talking about the next Need to be one step is given to them. With the generation travel agent, he ahead of travellers LCCs this is being achieved exclaims, “We believe that the Need an access and will lead to an increase in next generation travel agent is to content that they the number of domestic flyers.” already here. They do need to have not necessarily have more information. They had before Giving his perspective on need to be one step ahead of the European market vis-à-vis travellers. The travellers today Should be able to India, Powell says, “Just are savvier than they have ever pinpoint the value-add recently, Ryanair has gone been. They need an access to of each ticket Korea’s Jeju Island forays into India market

To promote Jeju Island in Korea Special Self-Governing Provincial destination. The number of Indian as an ideal destination for Indian Government, said, “As India is a tourists visiting Jeju Island was tourists, Jeju Special Self- relatively new market, travel recorded at 1,165 in 2014, which Governing Province, Jeju Tourism agents are an important aspect of spent $1,250.50 in Jeju Island. Organisation, Jeju Tourism business. We are providing incen- Jeju Island is also targeting Association and Jeju Convention tives and special offers to travel business travellers, offering vari- & Visitors Bureau organised agents in India to help promote ous incentives to boost MICE. a press conference on October the destination better. As of now “Corporates can have meetings 14, 2015. we have around 1,000 agents and events in caves, in traditional Jeju Island is promoting the working with us.” houses, near the beach or in gar- destination for honeymoon, Korea saw a total of dens at Jeju. We have the ICC leisure, MICE, adventure sports, 14,201,516 visitors in 2014 out of Convention Centre and are look- medical and wellness tourism and which only 1.04 percent were ing at more properties to have cultural heritage site. Discussing Indians, amounting to an increase team building exercises at the the role of agents, Lee Jung of 19.9 percent over 2013. Jeju scenic location,” said Jin-hun Hwan, General Director, Culture, Tourism Organisation is now pro- CHO, Marketing Director, Jeju Tourism & Sports Bureau, Jeju moting Jeju as an independent Convention & Visitors Bureau. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 30

30 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 FAMILY ALBUM Kerala MICE for Belmond showcases its 46 products

Japanese CEOs Belmond International recently held its first roadshow in Delhi and Mumbai. Kerala Tourism has sought the support of the Japanese government in turning Kerala into a Andrea Filippi, Executive Director, Worldwide MICE destination for chief executive officers Sales, Belmond, says the travel agents extend- (CEOs) of prominent companies in Japan and ed a warm welcome to those based in India. "The honourable Ambassador of Japan Takeshi Yagi has assured the delegation and his full support towards Kerala government's showed a remark- efforts to transform the state as a MICE destination able level of for the business heads from his country," said G Kamala Vardhana Rao, Tourism Secretary, knowledge of the Kerala. The Kerala Government had slashed the brand and its 46 luxury tax on auditoriums and convention centres products. having rents above ` 20,000 from 20 per cent to 10 per cent in the budget last year to attract MICE tourism. Yagi sug- gested a meeting of the representatives of the Indo- Japanese Chamber of Commerce, an independent business body, in Kerala to explore the possibility of inviting investment in hospi- Kamala Vardhana Rao Tourism Secretary, Kerala tality and tourism sector in the state. Praising Kerala's natural beauty, Yagi also offered his embassy's support in promoting Ayurveda in Japan. "He pointed to the tremendous opportunity for promoting Ayurveda, which is a time tested traditional medicinal system, among the people of Japan” said Rao. The meeting with the Japanese Ambassador along with Toshihiro Yamakoshi, Counsellor, Embassy of Japan in New Delhi on October 6, came before the Kerala Tourism roadshow in Tokyo on October 19. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 31 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 32

32 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 ASSOCIATIONS Members demand commissions Now that the dust has settled and the new team is in place, it is time to look at what the members of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) want from them. This poll was conducted before the election results were declared.

TT BUREAU There are so many issues that the The main issue is that of the com- The new TAAI team needs to be a new team must look at. The week- mission which was eliminated by little more concerned about the small ly payment is one of the most airlines a few years ago. It is one and medium agent members. They urgent issues. The other worrying thing that all of us unanimously are looking mainly for two to three issue is that of the commissions. want the new president to take up. things: one is that the commissions Even the LCCs aren’t paying us Then there are other matters like should be restored. Secondly, the commissions. Then there is web the passport issue. The agent no payment schedule should be disparity which means that trav- longer has any authority to submit changed from seven days to a fort- ellers are booking their tickets their clients’ passports. These are night again. These small agents are directly from the airline website the main issues that have affected looking to the leaders to create more and bypassing us. Let’s see what the new team will do about the earnings of the travel agents. avenues from where they can generate more income.” these issues. Ashish K. Mittal Devesh Kumar Agarwal Narinder Singh Co-Founder and CEO, TSC Travel Services Chairman (Eastern Region), TAAI, and MD, Victoria Travels CEO, Narinder Tours & Travels

All the members are now looking The last election was a real disas- Today, the agents are going through for a change. There is a yawning ter, so first we need to unite all the lots of challenges. One of the major gap between what TAAI was and members. We need to generate challenges is the commission itself. what it has become. The new the same confidence that TAAI as A couple of years ago the commis- team has its work cut out; it will an association used to instill sion itself got eliminated. Now the need to raise TAAI back to its days among its members. So regroup biggest challenge for the new pres- of glory. It will also have to bring everyone and put some three to ident is to revive the commission on the members together and draw four agenda in place for the new one side and on the other side he good participation from everyone. team so that they can re-instill faith will also have to guide the travel TAAI needs to be united and rise back in TAAI. agents on how they can find various up high once again in the travel fraternity. avenues to supplement their income. Rajan Dua Tina Kanuga MD, Udaan India Niranjan Gupta Director, Bathija Travels MD, Navras Travels FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 33 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 34 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 35

HOTELS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 35 Worldhotels to push Lalit overseas The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group partners with Worldhotels to strengthen their sales and marketing reach globally for their properties in New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata.

A NKITA SAXENA accounts and RFPs from coun- customer base,” he added. tries which can afford suites Talking about the MICE facili- ith presence in over 11 and leisure travel, the hotels will ties at The Lalit Hospitality Wkey destinations in India be able to increase the ARRs. Group, Suri adds, “We are offering finest hotels, palaces Jegge discussed their plans to a preferred destination for and resorts, the Lalit Suri partner with travel agents to conferences, exhibitions, Hospitality Group is focusing have preferred listing and list seminars etc, and 20 per cent on tapping the international Lalit higher and leverage on of our business can be market with its alliance with their partnership. “We are look- attributed to MICE. We will now Worldhotels. Worldhotels offers ing at redirecting client traffic to take these MICE facilities to the 450 hotels in 250 destinations The Lalit website to retain the global level.” and 65 countries worldwide.

Discussing the genesis of the partnership, Keshav Suri, Executive Director, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, says, “The story of The Lalit and Worldhotels matched along the lines of ownership, history and personality. With the country being marketed globally, it was high time we took our brand to the global level.” Roland Jegge, Executive Vice President, Asia Pacific, Worldhotels, says, “Lalit was a perfect match for us in terms of size and location of their properties which offer us an inven-

We are looking at redirecting client traffic to The Lalit website to retain the customer base

Roland Jegge Executive Vice President Asia Pacific, Worldhotels

tory of many hotel rooms and business hotels with MICE facilities. With this partnership, we will help bring out The Lalit out to the world and share our story and DNA of the brands.”

Explainig the collaboration with travel agents, Suri says, “We work well with travel agents and offer a loyalty programme for event management companies, embassies and travel agencies. We also offer commissions to our travel agents and work well with OTAs too.” However, looking at the global scenario, Suri expressed the need to have a world recognised loyalty programme to improve business.

Jegge says, “We are looking at an overall addition of value in all segments be it business, leisure or MICE travel. We shall expand the properties in places where The Lalit may not be present currently and notch up the sales and marketing.” Suri adds that through GDS, some non-negotiated FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 36

36 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 EXHIBITIONS FITUR to showcase shopping & health A major representation of the worldwide tourist offering will be put together for another year at FITUR, the International Tourism Trade Show, which brings forward the dates of its 36th edition to January 20-24, 2016.

TT BUREAU Exportación e Inversiones itate encounters and the possi- (ICEX Spain Exports and bilities of commercial exchange ITUR, organised by Investments), highlights the and agreements –at the past FIFEMA, will again prove to most innovative solutions staging, more than 5,000 be the international tourism associated with tourism man- scheduled meetings materi- industry’s largest business agement in Spanish compa- alised at the Fair’s B2B Space platform, for it attracts the nies and developments and at the service of exhibitors and most comprehensive exhibi- their potential in gaining visitors, where multiple trade tion of proposals and services access to markets abroad. collaborations were closed. The from businesses, organisa- FITUR B2B Hosted Buyer tions and institutions from 165 FITURTECH, hand in Workshop will again be staged, countries and regions world- hand with ITH, the Hotel unfolding an intense schedule wide. This is why, with more Technology Institute, is staging of personal, previously than three months to go its 10th edition, bringing us the arranged appointments before it is staged, FITUR tourism of the future. between participating compa- 2016 is intensifying the prepa- nies and a broad selection of rations for its upcoming stag- Also in collaboration with international hosted buyers. ing in the confidence that it will the ITH, and together with the repeat last year’s magnificent World Tourism Organisation results, which broke the UNWTO, FITUR is organising record of participation with the seventh staging of FITUR Highlights 12 per cent more international Green, which advances inno- FITURTECH, hand in professional visitors. This vation and sustainability in the hand with the Hotel means that over those five tourism industry as the way to Technology Institute, is days 125,084 professionals drive competitiveness forward staging its 10th edition, from 139 countries visited the offered by the new trends in cessfully launched at the to successfully confront the in both businesses and desti- bringing us the tourism Trade Show, which boasted a tourism. In this regard, the last staging in response to two challenge of innovation in nations, uniting current trends of the future total of 222,551 attendees International Tourism Trade sectors with significant tourism management. Thus with consumer expectations including the weekend public. Show is structuring its offering growth potential. the fourth edition of FITUR and demands. FITUR is organising the around the different spaces it Know How & Export, promot- seventh staging of One of FITUR’s charac- has gradually developed and, The remainder of sec- ed by the Ministry of Industry, FITUR will boost its pro- FITUR Green, which teristics is its ability to adapt to in particular, the latest novel- tions is proving to be equally Energy and Tourism, through gramme of B2B meetings, tai- advances innovation market realities and to bring to ties, FITUR Shopping and effective in helping tourism SEGITTUR and in collabora- lored appointments and sched- and sustainability in the participants the possibilities FITUR Health, which were suc- professionals to find the key tion with ICEX España uled agenda of contacts to facil- tourism industry FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 37 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 38

38 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 STATES Wellness is Maha mantra Now, Film City tours Taking a cue from its southern counterpart, Maharashtra is Amidst announcements of a one-window system to get permits exploring ways to promote its newly-packed wellness products for film shooting in Maharashtra, the news is that Mumbai’s to the incoming tourist traffic. famous Film City will be developed for tourism as well.

H AZEL J AIN lishing a certification system – TT BUREAU diamond, gold, silver certifica- We will develop about 112 acres hile it hasn’t really been tion – for the center depending he Maharashtra govern- of land within the Film City which Wable to package this prod- on the quality of their facilities. Tment has been trying to uct well yet, the state’s AYUSH Once we do that, we know what use its assets, package it well will not only have better facilities division – short for Ayurveda, facilities are available in which and promote it to the rest of for film shoots and production Yoga, Unani, Siddha & centres and then we can tie-up India and the world to attract Homoeopathy – is keen on tap- with the tour operators and more tourists. One such but also promote tourism. ping the inbound traffic inform them about these cen- project involves developing Maharashtra already receives. tres and the kind of facilities that Mumbai’s famous Film City in Vinod Tawde Minister for Education & Culture Prof. K. R. Kohli, Director of Prof. K. R. Kohli they have. We want to inform Goregaon where most of AYUSH, Government of Director, AYUSH international tourists coming into Bollywood shoots its movies. Government of Maharashtra Maharashtra, who is in charge Government of Maharashtra India about the health and well- of promoting this wellness prod- ness centres available in Vinod Tawde, Minister These include amenities it down to a single online appli- uct, says that AYUSH should be Maharashtra contributes some Maharashtra,” he says. for Education & Culture, for tourists, entertainment cation. “If you apply for the incorporated into the tourism revenue to the Government of Government of Maharashtra, avenues and hotels and F&B shoot and that area includes industry just as Kerala has done. Maharashtra,” he says. Prof. Kohli adds that while recently announced that he outlets apart from film shoots, the Mumbai Port Trust, it is not planning to conduct any wishes to make Mumbai the pre and post production then automatically the applica- “Kerala has a lot of treat- Prof. Kohli’s aim is to not roadshows, it will participate in ‘entertainment capital of Asia’. facilities, and skill develop- tion will move to them - they ment centres, panchkarma only popularise traditional all exhibitions related to travel “I don’t think any city in any ment institutes. The minister need not apply separately,” and wellness centres and remedies of Maharashtra and tourism, including interna- other country in Asia has such added that they are just about Tawde said. many Europeans and through AYUSH but also con- tional and domestic shows. a large film and television to issue a global tender for Americans come and stay tribute to a small share to the industry like Mumbai. We will this project. The master plan of Film there to get their necessary state’s revenue. AYUSH is a develop about 112 acres of City and Bollywood museum treatment – whether it is short government body in India and land within the Film City which This news comes amidst under the PPP model has term or long stay. Maharashtra means “long life” in English. Think Fit will not only have better facili- the announcement of a single- been submitted before too has a similar product but AYUSH is in the ties for film shoots and produc- window clearance system for the Infrastructure Committee we haven’t promoted it well. “We are trying to become process of establishing tion but also allow tourists and permissions to shoot films, tel- of the Government of We are now trying to promote a nodal agency for Maharashtra a certification system promote tourism. We want to evision serials and advertise- Maharashtra. The Government Maharashtra’s AYUSH and where if any tour operator wants for wellness centers make Film City the place for ments in the entire state of of Maharashtra has decided to wellness centres, its panchkar- to tie up with any of the wellness depending on their shooting as well as a place for Maharashtra. From a minimum appoint Film City Corporation ma centres so that the inbound centres they can come to us. quality of facilities tourism that will not disturb the of 27 applications, the state as the nodal agency to co-ordi- tourism coming into We are in the process of estab- shoots,” he said. government has now brought nate this activity. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 39 HOTELS Agents are here to stay Umang Narula, Chairman and Managing Director, India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), tells how important offline travel agents are for their business.

Even in Q1, 2015-16 we agents and tour operators are TT BUREAU continued the momentum gen- one of the most important What are the recent erated in the last financial by sources to get foreign clien- Qdevelopments at posting profit yet again. The tele i.e. the leisure travellers. ITDC? total turnover in quarter To ensure that we meet all the Looking at the future ending June 2015 stood at demands of today’s aggres- requirements of skilled man- ` 105.96 cr as compared to sive competitive market, the power and employability in the ` 103.63 cr in the correspon- Ashok group of hotels offers tourism and hospitality indus- ding quarter last year. special packages to travel try, we have recently launched agents. The market volatility The Ashok Institute of What will be strategies differs from one region to Hospitality and Tourism Qfor 2016? another. Some markets are Management (AIH&TM)- To increase the customer highly price sensitive as com- Centre for Excellence at Hotel base we not only participate in pared to others. Keeping in Samrat in New Delhi in affilia- fairs, shows and travel marts mind different market seg- tion with The National Council like WTM, ITB, ATM and IMEX ments like Europe, the for Hotel Management and etc but also engage with UK, USA, Far East etc, we Catering Technology (NCHM- clients from corporate sector, work with various travel agents as per specific requirements of the markets they In the tourism industry if operate in.

travel is considered as the How important offline leg for the industry, then the Qtravel agents are to travel agents are the very you in the era of online travel agents? important backbone of Even though the Internet the whole system. has created revolutionary changes in the tourism indus- Umang Narula try, the travel agencies cannot Chairman and Managing be replaced. At the same time Director, India Tourism we cannot ignore the upcom- Development Corporation ing new businesses which (ITDC) OTAs have opened and therefore we have entered into agreements with most of the CT) to offer B.Sc course in travel and tourism industry and online travel agents. The Hospitality and Hotel through online media. To con- volume of business that we Administration (HHA). To pro- solidate our presence in our are able to source from mote our country’s rich culture target segment specific strate- these OTAs has seen a and heritage, ITDC has also gies are being chalked out for tremendous growth. implemented new Sound and different verticals. Light shows at popular her- At the same time, we itage sites across country. We are also designing strongly believe that offline Recently we have installed a special packages for specific travel agents play a vital role in Sound and Light show at segments by way of pro contributing to the growing Delhi’s Old Fort. It also uses active engagement with cus- business of the Ashok group of the latest video-mapping tech- tomers in order to improve hotels. The group business nology which makes the nar- Occupancy Rates in our still comes through offline ration realistic. Additionally, we Hotels. To deal with the travel agents and hence have also opened Duty Free competitive environment we these agents/associations are Shops at Mumbai and Paradip are marketing more aggres- here to stay. seaports. ITDC through its sively than ever. Dynamic Ashok Tours and Travels pricing, long term tie ups with Lately, some of the division also intends to targeted segments are some travel agencies have forayed foray into cargo handling of the marketing initiatives that into the MICE market business to improve its have been taken. In addition, segment which brings a great turnover and bottom line. we will very soon be launching benefit to our flagship a new brand campaign hotel The Ashok in New Delhi How has the year 2015 through different media in as it is a popular MICE venue Qbeen for you/ITDC? the country. in the capital given its The financial year unmatched convention 2014-15 has been an interest- How closely are you facilities and a huge inventory ing year for ITDC. During Qworking with travel of 550 rooms. the year FY 2014-15, agents/ agencies/ associa- ITDC posted a robust profit tions? Do you give them with an all round increase in any special offers or incen- the performance as compared tives? New Ventures to the previous financial years. Travels agents, agencies ITDC has opened Duty The total turnover for FY and associations play a vital Free Shops at Mumbai 2014-15 stood at ` 504.19 role in tourism and hospitality and Paradip seaports crore as compared to ` 469.58 sector. It is rightly said that, ‘In crore in the previous year the tourism industry if travel is ITDC through its 2013-14, clocking a growth of considered as the leg for the Ashok Tours and 7.37 per cent while the net industry, then the travel Travels division profit before tax has increased agents are the very important also intends to foray by 226.48 per cent. In backbone of the whole sys- into cargo handling fact, the profit earned by ITDC tem.’ ITDC has been working business to improve during 2014-15 has been very closely with many its turnover and at an all time high in the travel agents/ agencies/ asso- bottom line last 7 years. ciations since decades. Travel FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 40

40 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 EXHIBITIONS Maharashtra on the right path forward The three-day Maharashtra International Travel Mart (MITM) 2015 held in Mumbai was a perfect platform for the state government as well as Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) to showcase their products.

H AZEL J AIN We want MITM to be an annual We have revamped our beautiful event. We have 75 international buy- Deccan Odyssey luxury train spe- We have been working on a lot of ers here for B2B meetings with the cially for MITM. Its exterior has tourism products to promote our intention of showcasing our prod- been altogether changed with state and I am happy to inform that ucts and our culture. This has been Warli paintings and other images we are also looking at the possibility taken from the idea of WTM London that depict Maharashtrian culture. of developing Mining Tourism in and ITB Berlin shows and we want The rates for tourists however Maharashtra in some of the coal to make this event as big as that. We remain unchanged. mines of Vidharba region in want to promote Maharashtra on an Chadrapur or Yavatmal area. We are Swati Kale international level through this plat- currently in discussions with the General Manager, MTDC form with its 720 km coastline, Bollywood, tiger sanctuaries, Western Coalfields Ltd and we hope Deccan Odyssey, Ajanta Ellora, the Lonar crater. to enter into an agreement with them for Mining Tourism soon. Satish Soni MITM has been a really good Paraag Jaiin Nainutia Joint Managing Director, MTDC MD, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation attempt at showcasing regional tourism by MTDC where they The first edition of MITM was very have tried to bring out the Lavasa is an important part of well organised – it was compact essence of Maharashtra. Today, Maharashtra’s tourism roadmap with good number of participants you can’t limit yourself to inbound and we had to be present at this and visitors. ITB will be celebrating or outbound tourism. We also first edition of MITM. We wanted 50 years in 2016 so we are gearing have a big segment which is our presence to be felt here spe- up for a bigger and better ITB next growing in terms of domestic cially since all the other important year. India as always will have a big tourism. We now even need to tourism players of Maharashtra presence with an entire hall. We are concentrate on cities beyond the obvious tourist circuits. It were going to be here. We happy to have India coming back is not only Delhi-Agra-Jaipur; it’s not just a few cities in work very closely with MTDC to ITB again and again. Kerala. MTDC has also invited a few agents to go on Fam specially when it comes to trips to showcase its products. participating in exhibitions. Rika Jean-François Commissioner (Corporate Social Responsibility), ITB Berlin Gurjit Singh Ahuja Bhupesh Kumar CEO & Co-Founder, Cruise Mantra Assistant VP (Tourism), Lavasa FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 41 AVIATION Dreamliner for Oman Air Boeing and Oman Air celebrate the delivery of the airline’s first 787 Dreamliner, along with a suite of services to ensure ongoing efficiency and cost savings for its fleet.

TT BUREAU

s Oman Air’s first Boeing A787 Dreamliner was finally delivered recently, the airline has announced that its first Dreamliner will be deployed to Saudi Arabia and Europe. The six 787-8s were ordered in November 2011as part of the airlines’ expansion plans. confidence in the 787 and the with Oman Air dates back value it will add in terms of reli- almost 15 years during which Paul Gregorowitsch, ability, operational efficiency time the airline has been oper- CEO, Oman Air, says, “We are and comfort.” ating the 737 family. We’re delighted to receive our first delighted to help introduce Dreamliner which, combined “We’re proud to have Boeing twin-aisle airplanes into with Oman Air’s award-win- Oman Air join our growing base its growing fleet,” he said. ning service, will provide an of 787 customers in the Middle excellent travel experience for East and around the world,” The 787 family has been our customers. Our decision says Boeing Commercial designed by Boeing with supe- to invest in this game-chang- Airplanes President and CEO rior effectiveness that allows ing airplane underlines our Ray Conner. “Our partnership the airlines to profitably open new routes to fly people directly where they’d like to go in We are delighted to receive our first exceptional comfort, keeping in mind Oman Air’s overwhelming Dreamliner which, combined with preference. The 787 family Oman Air’s award-winning service, will has opened more than 50 new non-stop routes around provide an excellent travel the world ever since it experience for our customers entered services in 2011 and is one of the most Paul Gregorowitsch, CEO, Oman Air super-efficient families of commercial planes.

VisitScotland woos Bollywood, honours SRK

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan was invited to Scotland’s capital by the prestigious University of Edinburgh to be conferred with the honorary degree of Doctor Honoris Causa. VisitScotland has researched and created a special online map, Bollywood Scotland, which highlights dozens of Scottish locations which provide the stunning backdrops for some of Bollywood's best-loved stars and most iconic musical sequences. In total, the map showcases 23 Indian films that have been shot in Scotland. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 42

42 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 HOTELS 10 new properties Ballroom for 900 guests Cygnett Hotels and Resorts is targeting to have 10 properties Shangri-La, which ventured into India with its first hotel in operational in India, Nepal and Bangladesh by 2016, says Delhi more than a decade ago, has recently opened its Vikram Malhotra, CEO & Co-founder, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts. second hotel with 397 rooms in Bengaluru.

TT BUREAU offer extensive conference M EGHA PAUL largest guestrooms and an facilities at some of our enviable inventory of 30 suites How do the agents upcoming properties to target Banking on Silicon all with spectacular views Qwork with Cygnett this segment specifically. Our Valley across the city. Hotels & Resorts? Are you Summit Conference hall at Shangri-La Hotel and offering any special pack- Kolkata and Columbia at Resorts is a well-known brand MICE matters ages or deals to the travel Guwahati have the capacity to internationally and with over 90 Shangri-La Hotel, agent? hold around 200 people, properties, it is well received Bengaluru offers comprehen- Travel agents are a key where we offer banquet and abroad. Shangri-La Hotel, sive meeting and event facili- part of our distribution strate- conference facilities, meet- Bengaluru is their second ven- ties, with seven flexible function gy. We have tie-ups with ings, conferences, training ture in India, the first being in Jens Corder rooms with a pre-function area various travel agents all over Vikram Malhotra programmes, product launch, Delhi. With two hotels and General Manager covering a total space of 1,996 CEO & Co-founder Shangri-La Hotel Bengaluru India and we offer special and Cygnett Hotels & Resorts social gatherings etc. upcoming projects in India, we square metres. It also has a introductory rates for our aim to position the brand as the dedicated events team to properties. In addition, we What kind of technol- ideal choice for both business upscale finish and contempo- assist in planning events from offer support to our hotels are targeting all major busi- Qogy additions are you and leisure travellers. Located rary styling features are an beginning to end with style and from our regional sales and ness, industrial, tourists, pil- looking at for your hotels? in the heart of the city at the cen- attraction in their own right. attention to detail. For confer- marketing teams in targeted grimage locations. We are also Our tie up’s with the tral business district, the hotel is Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru ences of up to 900 guests in feeder markets. actively targeting the Middle major global distribution sys- perfectly positioned and caters redefines luxury, hospitality theatre-style seating, the East from our office in Dubai. tems allow our hotels access to all needs of business trav- blending stylish design and hotel’s Grand Ballroom is the What are your targets to over 6, 50,000 travel agents ellers. The room rate starts from innovation incorporating gue- newest and largest meeting Qfor the coming year? What are the target worldwide and our reservation `8,000 for a deluxe type room strooms, function and meeting destination among premium We will have 10 opera- Qsegments for the engine allows for seamless exclusive of taxes. venues, signature restaurants, hotels in the city. In addition to tional properties in India, Nepal hotels? website booking for our cus- bars and spa with the unique the state-of-the-art conferenc- and Bangladesh by the end of We target both business tomers. In addition, we actively New offerings blend of contemporary ing technology and tailor-made 2016. We are coming up with and leisure travellers. Our use social media to propagate Besides an F&B destina- Indian hospitality. Located at catering services, Shangri-La hotels at Nepalgunj in Nepal hotels in Kolkata and business at our hotels. We are tion, Shangri-La Hotel the prestigious blue ribbon Hotel, Bengaluru offers a wide and one more hotel in Assam. Guwahati cater to business in the process of implementing Bengaluru will also feature as address of Palace Road range of business and secre- We will be launching our resort travellers while the property in a central reservation system to a destination to bask in Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru tarial support services. A ded- properties in Mussoorie and Goa is ideally located for offer active support to our grandeur with its unique pack- brings together the renowned icated glass elevator connect- Digha, West Bengal. Some leisure guests. The MICE mar- properties as well as an App to ages offering distinctive luxury hospitality of Shangri-La with ing the lobby and banqueting more projects are under dis- ket is an attractive and fast- facilitate ease of bookings in experiences. Furthermore, our the legendary Indian cultural spaces serves as an added cussion at various cities. We growing market. We intend to our hotels. design elements with a grand chic. Showcasing the city’s convenience for guests. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 43

CRUISES NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 43 India needs more ports for cruises

Sean Treacy, Managing Director, Singapore and Southeast Asia, Royal Caribbean Cruises, speaks about the fleet of ships to be launched and the first-ever marketing collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board and Changi Airport Group.

VAISHALI D AR We have entered into an and Changi Airport Group figure over the next three to agreement with the Singapore (CAG) to promote cruising out four years with the growth of Tell us about Royal Tourism Board to cooperate with of Singapore. And in turn, attract cruising in South East Asia, QCaribbean Cruises’ us to spend more in terms of the cruise line’s largest number which is huge opportunity for business plans for India. marketing dollars to promote of overseas fly-cruise guests. the Indian market. There is a There’s a lot going on in cruise in South East Asia and in growing awareness of the Royal Caribbean Cruises glob- India. Royal Caribbean What is the growth rate of cruise market, which is being ally. With 22 ships in our fleet, International has signed a first- Qcruise tourism in India? driven by TIRUN Travel Has there been growth Yes, future business can we will be adding one of the ever multi-million dollar market- The overall total cruise Marketing Team and we need Qin the demand of triple. This year has been a largest cruise ships in the sum- ing collaboration with the market is about 100,000 cruis- to build the market in support cruise vacations from record year as we have dou- mer of 2016 called ‘Harmony of Singapore Tourism Board (STB) ers annually. We can triple the of travel and trade partners. India? bled the growth. the Seas’ based in Barcelona. This is an ideal ship for the Indian cruise market. Another important billion dollar ship will be ‘Explorer of the Seas’ which will cruise from Europe to Asia, stop in Kochi, go for a three-

Sean Treacy Managing Director, Singapore and Southeast Asia, Royal Caribbean Cruises

We have over 40 cruises with three to five cruise nights, which is ideal for the Indian cruise market as it will help drive a lot of growth in this market

night cruise to Singapore and then head to Beijing with 4,000 passengers. Next year, we are going to have the longest season ever out of Singapore. We have over 40 cruises with three to five cruise nights, which is ideal for the Indian cruise market as it will help drive a lot of growth in this market.

There are a few things we need to work on to build local India cruise departures. We need to have more ports for cruise departures and better infrastructure. We should be able to take large ships as the average cruise length is three to five nights in India, which can be done through an intra-India cruise. Since you can’t have the same kind of cruise experience due to tax regulation and there’s no duty-free shopping, tax on beverages as in a normal cruise, so we have to make all these into viable options. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 44

44 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 HOTELS Exploring Central Asia All-suite villa resort in Munnar Amit Sharma, General Sales Manager, Travels Mantra, talks Aiana Hotels & Resorts has signed a management agreement about promoting Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, future plans of the with Moonriver Resorts to operate Aiana Munnar – A Moonriver company and its relations with travel agents. Resort. The property is scheduled to open in 2016.

TT BUREAU flight bookings and hotel TT BUREAU bookings to make the perfect alking about the initiative, holiday. The transparent pric- iana Munnar – A Moonriver TSharma says, “We have ing and seamless operations AResort is an all–suite villa come up with the Russia CIS are complimented with best resort spread across 20 acres series as a flagship product for personalised services for our of lush greenery. The resort is FIT, MICE and family tours. We partners,” says Sharma. are also promoting Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, also Travels Mantra operates from known as the ‘Switzerland of Central Asia at Tashkent, Central Asia’. We are the first Uzbekistan apart from other tour operators in India to organ- Amit Sharma locations. “We are a leading General Sales Manager ise a group tour of 60 people on Travels Mantra inbound tour operator dealing Moonriver Resort heralds an Alex Vacha, Managing direct flight to this destination. with the Middle East, Asia exciting journey for Aiana Director, Moonriver Resorts, Bishkek is being promoted as a Pacific and European countries. Hotels & Resorts in India. As said, “Aiana Munnar – A destination to look forward to for was formed to revolutionise The local office in Tashkent pro- our first property in India, Moonriver Resort has been MICE and FIT.” and redefine the quantitative vides our B2B partner and Aiana Munnar – A Moonriver envisioned as a grand retreat business in Uzbekistan and clients more reliability and com- Resort solidifies our commit- and luxury resort, created for the On the company’s association India. We believe in providing fort,” adds Sharma. Amruda Nair ment to offer locally relevant discerning traveller looking for a Joint Managing Director and Chief Executive with travel agents, Sharma full satisfaction to our client Officer, Aiana Hotels & Resorts L.L.C design and authentic experi- unique experience within a nat- explains, “We offer the best dis- and travel agents who work Explaining the packages that ences. We are happy to part- ural environment. A lot of detail- counts from our end to the travel with us.” Having completed 10 the company is charting out, ner with Alex and Tsarina ing has gone into the finer agents and clients. Travels years in the industry, Travels Sharma says, “Our Uzbekistan set amongst natural springs, Vacha as their expertise in aspects of the project and traces Mantra has been catering to the Mantra operates its own travel team is working on various itin- scenic views and will feature design and commitment to of local elements have been B2B segment since its early agency licensed by the eraries for Silk Road. The Indian authentic dining experiences preserving the natural environ- incorporated to stay true to the days and are now among the Ministry of Tourism of team is working to popularise and an extensive Ayurveda- ment is in line with Aiana’s destination’s rich heritage. ” top B2B travel networks with a Uzbekistan and Certified by the unique historical destination inspired spa. brand philosophy. As an reach of over 20,000 travel Euro Asia Standard and in the Indian market. We have upcoming leisure destination The development also agents. Travels Mantra now acts Quality. Travels Mantra is a options of package combination Amruda Nair, Joint with great connectivity and offers a unique real estate as both B2B and B2C platform.” fast growing online portal and with ‘Five Stan’ countries which Managing Director and Chief natural beauty, Munnar lends opportunity for buyers to a brand of Amro Voyage. “We include Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Executive Officer, Aiana itself to the creation of unique own a part of the luxury Talking about the company, support and work on all Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Hotels & Resorts, said, “The experiences that will be the resort under the fractional Sharma adds, “Travels Mantra domestic and international Turkmenistan.” signing of Aiana Munnar - A hallmark of Aiana Hotels.” ownership model. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 45 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 46

46 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 HOTELS A window to promote luxury hotels UK-based representation and PR Consultancy Window to Luxury (WTL) brings together some of the smaller, unique and luxury properties from exotic destinations in India. Sanjay Mechery, Director, Window to Luxury-London, tells what is expected from WTM, the scope and attractions of these properties and their past international business.

TT BUREAU What kind of interna- and Ireland by way of our mar- Social networking. We work Qtional business have keting and meeting one to one closely with our clients to cre- What are your expecta- these properties received We work very closely strategy with tour operators ate clear and realistic plans Qtions from WTM this in the past? with the travel trade, and key decision makers. customised to meet their year? There has been a huge mainly with tour opera- requirements to ensure We have a carefully select- interest and surge in the How does a traveller increased sales and growth in ed niche market segment of enquiry levels. We have to tors who decide the Qdifferentiate between business. The UK market saw boutique properties in experien- commend our new Visa policy destiny of our products. these properties and a a huge vacuum thereby result- tial places. We will be showcas- too which has eased a lot brand? ing in a genuine demand for a ing them under one roof-Window from the previous years. WTL We promote the Brands have done their representation of such unique, To Luxury (WTL), and capture has been in business only properties by creating jobs. There is a market for boutique hotels and resorts the attention of the luxury tour from the past two years and them, no doubt. I can confi- from India. All these are some operators who matter. we have already seen a huge awareness of their dently say that the products of the positive advantages surge of over 30 per cent of story lines. we represent are second to WTL hotels enjoy. What are the products the UK guests to The Serai none with regards to the actu- Qthat these properties alone over the last year which Sanjay Mechery al destination of the hotel or are showcasing? in many ways is a positive and Director, Window to resort, positioning, service We have categorised our welcome beginning. Luxury-London levels, food standards and hotels into Wildlife, Wellness, above all there is a personal Strong Start Heritage and Beach Retreats. How are these proper- touch in terms of experience. WTL has categorised WTL has an exciting collection Qties being promoted? the industry, attending semi- That is where the storyline of properties, all different and We work very closely nars, road shows, and exhibi- Are you targeting only plays a main role and that our hotels into Wildlife, Wellness, Heritage and unique in their own way. They with the travel trade, mainly tions like WTM, Destinations, Qthe UK and European indeed is an increasing trend may be small, large, estab- with tour operators who The Luxury Travel Fair, market or are other mar- amongst visitors. Beach Retreats lished, luxurious, adventurous decide the destiny of our prod- Adventure Travel Fairs, Bird kets also in the list? It has witnessed huge with wildlife experiences, etc ucts. We promote the proper- Fair etc. We conduct training WTL primarily looks at What advantage do surge of over 30 per but all have a unique story to ties by creating awareness sessions with travel consult- the UK and Irish Markets, but Qthese properties have cent of the UK guests to tell or relate to, making of their story lines by means ants across UK and are we are making inroads into the when working with you? The Serai alone over the them different and interesting of one to one meetings dedicated to a digital interac- European sector too. As of WTL’s strength lies in last year for the guests. with key decision makers of tion with travel trade. now, we are covering entire UK client representation, PR and FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 47 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 48

48 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 COVER STORTY Wellness & yoga Social network for the trade top selling points Social networking is becoming an important tool for the travel trade in attracting Contd. from page 3 to make conscious efforts to clients and TraveLibro is leveraging this demand through its innovative product. re-establish the fact that India of what India is like and what we is indeed the land of yoga and have to offer.” He adds that out- wellness,” he comments. TT BUREAU ting in their office spending door campaigns have been TraveLibro not only provides free time on one link. At the same planned and the Incredible India Billa seems positive ravel planning is a lot more leads to an agent but is also a space time tourism boards are high branding will be sited all over the about the reception and the Tthan just booking hotels on our list to connect with in city. Video screens will also dis- outcome of WTM, more so before traveling. That's where to showcase their work. We also order to own their pages.” TraveLibro’s key feature of con- provide each agent with detailed necting with travel agents of He emphasizes that We are expecting to see good results specific specialisations comes analytics on their followers, people TraveLibro's heart remains with especially since we are highlighting in. This recently launched web- who have viewed their profile. the travellers and connecting site allows a travel agent to reg- them with experts. “Hence, the yoga and wellness tourism. This ister for free and gain access to Monish B. Shah activities will be concentrated works as a strong advantage and a world of travellers. It’s a highly Chairman and Managing Director, TraveLibro on getting quality genuine wan- customised App and the portal derers, globe trotters, honey- I am sure we will receive an will connect agents who have mooners and every travel lover incremental inbound growth expertise in the area of request with a trip which is well-planned. Travelibro has included them in onto the platform to experience to travellers. That's where the experience of its strategy as opposed to book- travel as never before. The Suman Billa the travel trade comes in. Gone ing portals. Users can now effect of this will be seen direct- Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism Monish B. Shah, are the days of taking trips in judge which agent they should ly by specific trade partners Chairman and Managing herds to show a location which plan their next holiday with who would invest their time and Director, TraveLibro, says, has been replaced with online based on their work, specialisa- effort for their content and “TraveLibro not only provides bookings and a traveller ventur- tions and followers. presence on their portal more play the Incredible India since London is hosting the free leads to an agent but is also ing out on their own. This has consistently. We also cover the commercial. prestigious travel trade event. a space to showcase their work happened because agents Shah adds, “Since best travel agents on our He explains, “The UK is a fair- and agency. We also provide around the world have not TraveLibro is a unique brand newsletters and social media On speaking about the ly established market and each agent with detailed analyt- accepted the change globally to and one of the first to cater to regularly. We will also be par- projection of India, Billa elabo- Europe is familiar with India ics on their followers, people start doing more business travel social networking out ticipating in travel trade fairs rates that the main focus is to and its culture. We are who have viewed their profile, online. TraveLibro brings the tra- and out, the strategy is to regularly,” Shah reveals. promote the country as a well- expecting to see good results itineraries viewed and down- ditional way of booking holidays spread the word out. Agents, ness destination and the land especially since we are high- loaded and a cutting edge lead through an expert in a new-age tourism boards and travellers TraveLibro’s Travel Diaries of yoga. “After the Prime lighting yoga and wellness monitor. Global travellers will technology-driven travel world.” will all be targeted at one event helps agents track all their travel Minister’s International Yoga tourism. This works as a now be able to reach the travel to spread awareness. We experiences on one single pro- Day initiative received such a strong advantage and I am agents on TraveLibro.com!” TraveLibro's planner would like to educate the file with the help of an interactive huge response, we are high- sure we will receive an allows travellers to plan a holi- agents and tour operators map, travel tracker, itineraries, lighting the country as a well- incremental inbound growth,” Shah says, “A traveller’s day and share it with friends. To across the globe on how they journeys, travel memories, buck- ness and yoga hub. We need he wraps up. experience will be completed reach the last step of bookings can improve their business sit- et list, bookmarks, etc . FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 49 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 50

50 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 ASSOCIATIONS Travstarz’s hosts agents in Thailand 410 mn arrival into Asia International arrivals into the Asia Pacific region continued strong growth momentum of previous years with a gain of 5.4% during the first half-year of 2015.

and Japan captured more than TT BUREAU 4.1 million additional arrivals from China, period over period hese are some of the top- in 2015. level findings contained T The impact of the con- within the Annual Tourism traction in the Russian Monitor 2015 Final Edition outbound market is also con- released by the Pacific Asia sidered in light of destinations Travel Association (PATA). Highlights of the Annual across the Asia Pacific Tourism Monitor 2015 Final region in early 2015, with Edition include: Thailand, Turkey and Mario Hardy China being particularly International Visitors CEO negatively affected. arrivals to the Asia Pacific PATA “Understanding the region – as defined by the immediate impacts of changes 45 destinations covered in this top three generating markets in the foreign inbound markets report – have collectively for all international arrivals allows us to contain the nega- shown significant growth within the Asia Pacific region in 2014, although there were tive consequences and boost over the last five years rising the positive. This Final Edition significant deviations in that from almost 455 million of the 2015 PATA Annual grouping from sub-region to in 2010 to over 552 million Tourism Monitor therefore pro- sub-region. in 2014. vides an important first step in For early 2015, the 39 Asia continued its dom- quantifying these changes and inance in 2014, capturing more destinations in the Asia Pacific allowing us to make resource than 410 million foreign arrivals region with arrivals data for deployment decisions based – a relative share of more than early 2015 show a collective on those quantification met- 74% - led by Northeast Asia gain of 5.4% year on year, rics,” said PATA CEO Mario with a share of 47% of compared to growth of five per- Hardy. “Our publications along total international arrivals into cent for the same destinations with PATAmPOWER are valu- Asia Pacific. and periods of 2014. able tools for those planning A Fam trip was organised by Travstarz with Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa, a leading hotel for Indian destination weddings, MICE and leisure travel. The participants included leading travel agents from Delhi and Mumbai and China, Hong Kong Early 2015 indictors for and making important deci- explored two Islands of Rayong and Koh Samet in Thailand. SAR and the USA were the the key source market show sions in allocating their that Thailand, Hong Kong SAR resources for the future.” FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 51

AVIATION NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 51 Red-eye flights, new routes on SG SpiceJet recently announced several new initiatives such as its very first red-eye flights within the domestic network on the Delhi-Bengaluru route, a new flight on the Delhi-Nanded route, along with serving Dubai direct from eight Indian cities.

TT BUREAU able Sikh pilgrims to visit the ating 4 flights in a week i.e. tions after Bangkok, Colombo, direct from eight Indian cities, between Kozhikode - Dubai Hazur Sahib by offering them Monday, Thursday, Saturday Kabul, Male (Maldives) and Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Amritsar – Dubai. While jay Jasra, General a convenient yet affordable and Sunday. SpiceJet operates Muscat. Services to Pune, Kochi, Madurai, SpiceJet will operate daily AManager (Corporate mode of travel. SpiceJet three flights currently on this Kathmandu, which had been Amritsar, and Kozhikode, with flights on the Kozhikode – Affairs), SpiceJet, says, "Red- launched direct flights to Dubai route. The new red-eye flight on temporarily suspended, will connections from dozens of Dubai route, flights on the eye is a popular concept in the from Amritsar and Kozhikode Delhi – Bangalore sector resume in the future, and more cities including Kolkata, Amritsar – Dubai route west as they generally tend to and flight services will start would be available at fares additional international desti- Chennai, Hyderabad, and will operate on all days be more economical than the from November 15, 2015. starting ` 3,899. nations will be announced in Bengaluru. To celebrate the except Saturdays. It will be day-time flights. More so, night the coming weeks. With the launch, the airline is offering deploying its Boeing flights are a smart option to On the Delhi – Bangalore Dubai is one of the air- launch of these flights, the air- tickets at an introductory fare 737NG aircraft on the newly business and other frequent sector, the airline will be oper- line’s six international destina- line will be serving Dubai of ` 4,999 all-in one way launched routes. travellers as they can conve- niently attend their business meetings and take a late-night flight back thus avoiding road traffic during peak hours. We

Ajay Jasra General Manager (Corporate Affairs) SpiceJet

We are in the process of adding close to half a dozen red-eye flights in the coming winter schedule as they serve our objective of boosting connectivity 24x7

are the process of adding close to half a dozen red-eye flights in the coming winter schedule as they serve our objective of boosting connectivity 24x7.”

On Delhi – Nanded sector, the flight SG 671 will operate this flight service twice a week on Monday and Thursday on this route. SpiceJet is the only airline to operate to and fro flights from Nanded and the airline is looking forward to carry innumer-

Spice in the air On Delhi – Nanded sector, the flight SG 671 will service twice a week on Monday and Thursday On the Delhi – Bengaluru sector, the airline will be operating 4 flights in a week i.e. Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 52

52 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 NEWS Hahn Air salutes top agents AssociationTalk Bengaluru witnessed its share of glitz as Hahn Air acknowledged TAAI forms 8 committees its top-performing travel agencies and partners for 2015. The new team of Travel Agents Association of India took TT BUREAU important decisions at its first Managing Committee meeting,

ahn Air hosted an awards including forming special committees that focus on specific areas. Hceremony to celebrate its top-performing travel agencies TT BUREAU and valued business partners Other key conclusions List of portfolios assigned: for the year 2015. With India nder the chairmanship of from the meeting include form- Airlines Council being one of Hahn Air’s top 10 the newly-elected TAAI ing an arbitration forum to U Chairman: Jyoti Mayal markets worldwide, the airline President Sunil Kumar, some resolve disputes between mem- Co-Chairman: Shreeram Patel has established itself as one of important decisions were bers and TAAI to avoid the pos- the leading ticketing specialists taken during the first sibility of a litigation and manda- Tourism Council across the sub-continent. Managing Committee meeting tory Region/Chapter meetings Chairman: Jay Bhatia held from October 7-8, 2015 with members held at least once Co-Chairman: Imtiaz Qureshi Over 50 travel agents in Hyderabad. in 60 days. from Bengaluru attended the Allied Services including Insurance prestigious awards ceremony. One of them included It was also decided that Matters Hahn Air awarded a certificate forming committees with the TAAI Managing Chairman: Bhagwan Ramnani Co-Chairman: R. Krishna Rao of appreciation recognising its special portfolios. All portfolios Committee meetings will top 10 agencies for their con- assigned are for one become a two-day program Membership Development tinued support and for being Kimberley Long- extremely promising and we year, after which it will be and will be held in various Chairman: Anil Kumar among its top business part- Urbanetz, Vice President look forward to greater coop- reviewed towards the end of parts of India to offer an Co-Chairman: Bhagwan Ramnani ners. The top three agencies, (Sales & Agency Distribution), eration with our valued busi- the first year of the current opportunity for interaction with based on the criteria of highest was there to present the ness partners.” term. Important committees the local membership of Technology; Website and CRS revenue per travel agency, took awards along with Hahn Air’s will have more than one Regions/Chapters. Chairman: Shreeram Patel home trophies featuring Hahn Director Global Account To acknowledge the co-chairperson. Co-Chairman: Anil Kumar Air’s mascot ‘Martin, the smart Management for Southern importance of the market, The second TAAI meet- Legal Matters travel agent’. India, Bharat Kapoor. She Hahn Air has established a Region-Chapter chair- ing has been proposed for Chairman: Imtiaz Qureshi said, “We are very optimistic dedicated service desk for persons and members with November/December 2015 Co-Chairman: Devaki Thiyagarajan The top agency for the about the Indian market as it India which can be reached 24 experience who can and will be held along with the evening was Riya Travel & holds great potential and hours. There are also three support TAAI in its pursuit to Office Bearers of all Taxation Tours (India) while FCM Travel Indian travel agencies have regional Global Account resolve challenges will be Regions/Chapters and the Chairman: Devaki Thiyagarajan Solutions (India) was awarded increased their business with Directors in charge of their added to committees. These Chairpersons of various com- Co-Chairman: Bhagwan Ramnani second place. GBT India Hahn Air to date by over 20 respective regions for market- committees will be further mittees will make presenta- Private Limited took home the per cent in 2015 compared to ing and sales support and developed in the future tions on what their commit- Cultural/Sports Council third trophy. 2014. Our outlook for 2016 is related activities. MC meetings. tees aim for. Chairman: R. Venkatachalam FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 53 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 54 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 55

HOTELS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 55 668,500 rooms in 71 countries

Daniel Ruff, President and Managing Director, Europe, “Last year we had about 6 million people coming into India but internationally India’s image has been portrayed in a very wrong manner. But Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and Indian Ocean still people don’t feel very safe when they are travelling to India because regions, Wyndham Hotel Group, and Rahul Rai – of the stories that they have heard. But now I think the government under- stands that there is a potential of calling 20 million people to India next Executive Director (Marketing, Sales & Distribution), year. I think today hotels are doing occupancies that is not generating profits for them. So once we have the additional number of tourists coming Unique Group, tell about the hotel’s plans for into India and all the hotels start doing 70 per cent occupancy instead of 50 per cent occupancy with may be a ` 500 rise in the ARR, I think every- India market. Rahul Rai body will do well. That has already started happening. Also few days back Executive Director (Marketing, Gujarat Tourism recognised tourism sector as a separate industry and it Sales & Distribution) Unique Group investments and wherever doors for has not clubbed it with real estate. At least now we know there is some A N UPRIYA B ISHNOI investments open, the infrastructure paper lying with the government which says that tourism has to be there separately. The debts that the improves. So that’s all connected with banks give to the hotels have to be calculated separately, it should not be in line with real estate which Tell us about Wyndham and how we are promoting ourselves and why gives massive hope to hoteliers. In Bangalore travel agents contribute around 40 per cent to our business. Qits USP? we are targeting India as one of the most impor- The future we see with them is excellent.” Wyndham Hotel Group is the world’s tant markets. largest hotel company based on number of hotels. As both a leading hotel brand franchisor and hotel management services provider, the company’s

Daniel Ruff President & MD, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), Wyndham

The government is proactive and doing a lot to boost tourism. I think that’s opening up doors for investments and wherever doors for investments open, the infrastructure improves

global portfolio consists of approximately 7,700 properties and over 668,500 rooms in 71 countries.

How important is QIndia market for you? What makes your product suitable for the India market? It’s actually a thrilling destination for international guests as well as domestic travellers. With the development of India, and with the development in infrastructure, the country is bringing excitement around the globe. The service culture in India has always been there and now you are also building infrastructure alongside. I am sure India is destined for greater things.

Also the government is proactive and doing a lot to boost tourism. I think that’s opening up doors for FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 56

56 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 AGENTS Offering niche tour options Adventure lures FTAs Amit Malhotra, Director, India Operations, Bestway Tours & Rishi Khandelwal, Managing Partner, Wish Bone India, talks Safaris, gives an account of their USP and predicts the about different factors that play a crucial role in attracting Indian tourism industry’s course for 2016. FTAs to India.

TT BUREAU Malhotra says, “Our USP are a fast growing company and TT BUREAU New concepts such as adven- lies in our special interest tours, with the expansion of the team, ture, rural, golf, wellness ith a vision to promote which are niche tourism prod- we are looking to add more pecialised in providing Wthe rich heritage and cul- ucts and an alternative to mass special interest tours to our Sunique experiences, Wish tourism, each with its ture of India, Bestway Tours & tours. It is the provision of cus- exhaustive list of itineraries.” Bone India helps travellers distinct characteristics and Safaris provides a host of tours tomised leisure and recreational plan inspiring vacations that to their customers, ranging experiences driven by the spe- For the forthcoming year, bring them closer to the offerings, are increasingly Malhotra predicts a positive essence of the locations. The playing a pivotal role in future for the tourism industry in business and luxury travel Some of the unique tours India. “In the Tourism 2020 agency offers MICE, inbound increasing FTAs. we have included are textile Vision document, WTO fore- and domestic packages that casts that India has the potential cover locations such as the Rishi Khandelwal tours, women only tours, to reach nearly 8.9 million inter- Kerala backwaters, wild Managing Partner, Wish Bone India bicycle tours, photographic national arrivals by 2020,” he reserves, Himalayan heights, mentions. “With the introduction among numerous others. experiences, every aspect is mentions that it is India’s rich tours, culinary tours and of e-Tourist Visa to 113 nation- discussed with the customer heritage and geographical battlefield tours. alities worldwide, inbound traffic Speaking of their USP, to ensure the combination diversity which attracts them to India has been on the rise Rishi Khandelwal, Managing works perfectly. to the country. “India’s rich her- Amit Malhotra consistently. So, in all, Partner, says, “We are itage, cultural and historical Director, India Operations, we can say 2016 will be focussed on extending “Our key markets are resources and geographical Bestway Tours & Safaris prosperous year for inbound authentic and immersive France, Belgium and the diversity play a crucial role in travel,” he adds. experience of each destina- UK,” says Khandelwal. “We attracting FTAs,” he says. tion. Providing personalised plan to continue emphasising “Moreover, new concepts such from cultural, adventure, cific expressed interests of indi- and seamless service is what these three markets. Despite as adventure, rural, golf, beach, Ayurveda, culinary, viduals and groups.” Regarding distinguishes us from the oth- the global slowdown and wellness tourism, each with its yoga and spa tours, and much some new and interesting tours Unique Products ers,” he adds. Wish Bone increasing competition from distinct characteristics and more. Headquartered in that have been added to their Some of the tours offered develops every itinerary after the Asia-Pacific region, we offerings, are increasingly Vancouver, Canada, Bestway itinerary he elaborates, “Some by Bestway are textile first researching about the are very bullish on India’s playing a pivotal role in now serves major tour opera- of the unique tours we have tours, women-only tours, customer’s needs and under- tourism growth outlook,” increasing FTAs. Thanks to the tors in North America, Europe included are textile tours, bicycle tours, photo- standing their exact require- he comments. ease in visa regulations, we and the Middle East, apart women-only tours, bicycle tours, graphic tours, culinary ments. From the destination can expect even more arrivals from covering India, Bhutan, photographic tours, culinary tours and battlefield tours to the mode of travel and style When it comes to foreign in the months to come,” he Sri Lanka, Nepal and Tibet. tours and battlefield tours. We of accommodation to the tourist arrivals, Khandelwal signs off. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 57 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 58 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 59

EXHIBITIONS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 59 Buyers get a ‘taste of India’ @WTM An array of exhibitors will be partying in style during the WTM London’s Festival programme on November 4. Countries including India will showcase their cuisine, culture and traditions at this international platform.

TT BUREAU while Indonesia, a country with we decided to do them again a rich festival tradition, will this year. he Caribbean Tourism demonstrate its diverse coun- TOrganisation (CTO) and try of origins and religions. “This year the festivals Mexico are among many look to be even bigger and bet- exhibitors that will be hosting World Travel Market ter with plenty of opportunity WTM London festivals until tination showcases its colourful London, Senior Director, Simon for informal networking and fun 8pm on the Wednesday traditions. Press, says, “The WTM for all attendees. If you have evening of WTM London. The London festivals were only the opportunity, come and festivals give everyone the Nepal’s festival will be introduced last year to celebrate experience the culture, opportunity to socialise after focusing on nature, culture and the 35th year of WTM but hospitality and cuisine of the traditional working hours in adventure during its festival they were so successful that these exhibitors.” a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Those attending will experience the culture, hospitality and cuisine with each hosting exhibitor offering something unique.

With 2015 being declared the Year of Mexico in the UK, there is likely to be a lively party atmosphere on its pavilion. Mexico will be showcasing its gastronomy with tastings from its 80 exhibiting destinations as well as a live band to entertain the visitors.

The CTO will be hosting a street party in the Caribbean Village Area at WTM London 2015. Visitors will be treated to live Calypso and steel drum music with savouring local cuisine and tropical rum punch.

Meanwhile, India will be showcasing ‘Taste of India’ themed festival where one can enjoy the diverse cuisine from every corner of the country. Whilst experiencing live Indian dance and music, taste aromatic local Indian wines from the boutique wineries or Indian beer as they portray the rich cultural heritage of their country.

The Polish Tourist Organisation and Polish travel industry partners are hosting a Networking Party which will give the opportunity to liaise with the country’s travel industry representatives. There will also be a party atmosphere with Polish hospitality offering local special- ities with live music.

Famous Vietnamese street food is likely to attract plenty of attention as the des-

Festivities Galore India will showcase its diverse cuisine and culture Vietnamese street food will attract attention Polish travel partners will host networking and parties Nepal will focus on nature and culture FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 60

60 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 AGENTS Thinking beyond 1bn tourists agenda ‘Reactivating’ Nepal Anil Kumar, Director - Marketing, Operations, Product Development and Finance Contracting, SenKay Tours and Travels, talks about the journey of the company.

TT BUREAU

enKay Tours and Travels, Our new offerings are itineraries Sone of India’s leading with the spirit of developing new DMCs, believes in an India which is a true blend of ancient programmes. We want to traditions, values and globally reactivate Nepal as one recognised professional services of the modern era. “Our pri- of the most fascinating mary goal is to make the trav- destinations. eller experience a unique journey with something special, Anil Kumar which imparts an unforgettable Director- Marketing, memory for our clients. The Operations, Product choice of routes is important, Development and Finance but not more than its contents,” Contracting, SenKay Tours Kumar says. and Travels

“Continuous and consis- tent involvement of Team ings are itineraries with new destinations within India SenKay in searching for fasci- the spirit of developing new as well as outside. nating non-classical places programmes in order to be and its understanding of the different outside the usual On the latest trends in traveller’s requirements makes patterns but inside the the tourism industry, Kumar it the most trusted DMC in intensity of the destination says, “A series of decisions India for developing new itiner- without any additional cost. with reference to the increase aries with value-added fea- “We also want to reactivate in the entrance fees and tures, which give a different Nepal as one of the taxes, taken in the recent and unique experience of trav- most fascinating destinations,” months have put all of us in a A two-day seminar on “Tourism and Hospitality: Beyond the Agenda for One Billion Tourists and One Billion elling,” Kumar adds. he adds. tough situation. As tourism Opportunities” was organised at University Institute of Hotel Management & Tourism (UIHMT), Panjab University fraternity we must take the (PU), Chandigarh. The seminar was organised under the aegis of HOSTOCON-2015 and witnessed a number of On its new offerings, Kumar says the new age right decisions at the right speakers from across the country and abroad. Kumar says, “Our new offer- traveler is always looking for time,” he adds. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 61 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 62

62 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 NTO VIA Rail Canada sales Fiji promotes luxury in India up by 67% in Aug Specialist Destination Management Company Tour Managers, based in Fiji, has VIA Rail Canada recorded a are key market drivers and we growth of 67 per cent from India are focusing on both to grow this unveiled a luxury brochure for Fiji in India with Namale Resort & Spa and Tourism Fiji. onboard VIA Rail Canada for market organically. This is a pos- August 2015 compared to the itive sign and we hope to contin- same month sales last year. End ue the same trend in 2016.” Tourism Fiji India was also TT BUREAU present and the support from of August in 2015, VIA Rail VIA Rail now offers an all Fiji’s NTO has also been crucial Canada showed a Year-on-Year new Prestige Class on the he Managing Director of in promoting and educating the growth of 34 per cent in agency Canadian, one of the most luxu- Fiji-based Tour Managers, Indian travel trade. Through the sales from this market. ry experiences on any train jour- T Damend Gounder, truly tireless efforts of Alefiya Singh, Ashish Saran, Account ney with several improvements believes in introducing the best Director of Mumbai-based Iris Head, VIA Rail, says, “67 per and modifications done to vastly of Fiji to the India market. With Reps that represents Tour cent increase during the month improve the travel experiences this vision, he has introduced Managers in India, and Saroj the Tour Managers’ luxury Gounder, Contract Manager brochure at an exclusive (India Division) for Tour launch in New Delhi followed Managers, the India market Alefiya Singh Damend Gounder by an additional event in Director Managing Director share continues to be consoli- Mumbai this September. Iris Reps Tour Managers dated with exciting growth in key Gounder says, “Tour Managers off-peak periods for the India is committed to the internation- traveller. "As far as unexplored al markets including India, Mature Our aim is to and exotic destinations go, Fiji China, the US, New Zealand is right up there. Mature Indian and Australia. This is evident by Indian showcase the travellers are always looking for the increased staff strength in travellers are best of Fiji and new places to explore and India. Our aim is to showcase this island country is perfect for the best of Fiji and of course always keep in mind them - specially honeymooners of August is a positive jump in of guests onboard VIA. There are keep in mind the market senti- looking for the market and HNIs. Much of the country sales for train journey travel for several improvements on various ments and preferences.” is uncrowded with fantastic hotel Indians travelling to Canada. classes of service, which include new places sentiments and properties, making it a perfect Considering Indians are more specially prepared menus with The island-themed event to explore preferences luxury destination,” Singh says. inclined towards convenience locally sourced food and was attended by high profile and cost, this positive number wine, fresh, increased on-board niche travel agents who exclu- Tour Managers Fiji also reconfirms that VIA Rail is a pre- entertainment. Even the food sively promote high-end made an exciting announce- mium train with convenience and and wine service is accompa- resorts for destination Fiji. One market-friendly specials which Namale along with airfare and ment for the soon to be affordability as a prime focus. We nied with performances by of these resorts is Namale are highly enticing for the India ground support from Tour launched online portal for are trying to reach out to more home-grown artists and Resort & Spa that has been traveller. Namale Resort & Spa Managers for agents selling India and other key markets consumers though the travel musicians onboard to give the instrumental in proactively India representative, maximum Namale rooms for which will prove to be a valu- trade. Education and information feel of real Canada assisting the growth of the Kanishka Kapoor Khimani, the sale period valid until able tool in making Fiji India market by creating India announced free stays at October 2015. more sellable. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 63 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:22 AM Page 64 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:23 AM Page 65

AVIATION NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 65 SQ’s Premium Economy Class Singapore Airlines launches its new Premium Economy Class on the Delhi and Mumbai routes. David Lau, General Manager – India, Singapore Airlines, explains the features of the new offering and its importance for the India market.

SAMAPTI D AS collaboration with Singapore Talking about Indian trav- Tourism Board, passengers el agents, Lau says that the ingapore Airlines intro- on Singapore Airlines can travel agents are equally Sduced its new Premium purchase the Singapore important and Singapore Economy cabin class on the Explorer Pass - a one-time Airlines would love to Delhi and Mumbai routes from access pass to 23 different provide them special offers October 25, 2015, and January attractions and benefits over if they are ready to partner 2, 2016, respectively. It is avail- the duration of the pass at spe- with them. able on the Airbus A380 serv- cial rates. David Lau unveils the Premium Economy Class ices from both cities to Singapore and onwards to Auckland, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, London and Sydney. The Premium Economy Class will be introduced across the Singapore Airlines global network on 19 Airbus A380s, 19 Boeing 777-300ERs and the first 20 Airbus A350s. The airline showcased the Premium Economy seats at DLF Promenade, Delhi from October 10-11, 2015.

Travel agents are equally important and we would love to provide them special offers if they are ready to partner with us

David Lau General Manager – India, Singapore Airlines

Following a two-year development programme and an investment of about $80 million, the Premium Economy Class will welcome customers to a contemporary and stylish design. Each seat has a width of 19.5 inches (on the A380) with an eight inch recline and a seat pitch of 38 inches in a 2- 4-2 layout. Together with active noise-cancelling headphones and a sleek 13.3-inch full HD monitor, the largest in its class, featuring an intelligent and unique touch-screen graphical user interface (GUI), customers can look forward to an enhanced KrisWorld In-Flight entertainment experience.

David Lau, General Manager – India, Singapore Airlines, says, “Our decision to introduce Premium Economy is in response to the feedback received from our customers which highlighted the increasing global acceptance for this new cabin class. The product offering has been specifically tailored to provide Economy Class passengers an alternative for medium – long haul travel with extra comforts.” In FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:54 AM Page 66

66 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 SPECIAL FEATURE 10 th Annual UNIGLOBE Travel Regional 300 UNIGLOBE Travel Professionals from across South Asia gathered in Udaipur to celebrate individual and collective achievements, interact, sharpen skills, network and gain insights.

TT B U R E AU service and cost containment knowledge, skills, talents solutions to clients. and the power of the he 10 th Annual UNIGLOBE UNIGLOBE system.” Our theme for this year, ‘Go for the TTravel Regional Con- “We are very excited as Magic’, was chosen to inspire ference and Excellence we cover another milestone by The conference was Awards were conducted moving our brand story to the marked by an array of educa - UNIGLOBE Travel professionals to recently at The Radisson Blu, world of television, with a tional, team building and unleash the hidden potential of their Udaipur. Themed ‘Go for the brand new hot-off-the-press experiential sessions. These mind to deliver magical services to our Magic’ this year’s conference TV commercial. The commer - included a session on the ‘Art of clients by using knowledge, skills, talents and the power of the UNIGLOBE Travel (South Asia), organises UNIGLOBE system. the conference every year to support Michelle Desreux COO and Executive Director inter-agency networking, professional UNIGLOBE Travel (South Asia) development and to build relationships with each other and with key suppliers cess, further inspired audi- that will undoubtedly make us The awards included from the South Asian region, as well as ences to tread their own better travel professionals.” recognition for Counselors, path of success. Managers, Sales, Accounts, other parts of the globe. Over 20 suppliers from Leisure and Facilitation Sanjay Arya Other insightful sessions different categories including personnel at various levels of President, UNIGLOBE Franchise at the conference included one leisure, technology, insur - performance assessment. Owners Association (UFOA) by Desreux, that focused on ance, banks, hotels, airlines The awards, organised by Tata imparting the importance of and destination management AIG, saw the introduc- understanding habits and companies came together for tion of three new categories

was hosted in the magnificent cial effectively underlines how Persuasion’ by world renowned city of Udaipur, known for its UNIGLOBE Travel, meets the mentalist, Roy Zaltsman , lakes. With over 300 needs of travellers and travel where he shared techniques of We are very excited as we cover another milestone UNIGLOBE Travel profession - buyers, the UNIGLOBE persuasion that could be instru - by moving our brand story to the world of als attending, insightful educa - Way - Travel. Simplified.,” says mental in effective client com - television, with a brand new hot-off-the-press TV commercial. The commercial effectively underlines The UNIGLOBE Regional Conference has how UNIGLOBE Travel, meets the needs of travellers emerged as one of the most sought out events and travel buyers, the UNIGLOBE Way - for members of the UNIGLOBE family and we are Travel. Simplified. Ritika Modi proud to be a part of it. Like every year, this year’s Regional President, UNIGLOBE Travel (South Asia) conference has lived up to its promise of offering new perspectives and great insights that will using them effectively, and The Supplier Showcase, that this year to include undoubtedly make us better travel professionals. another by Amadeus, leading served as a platform for Manager Admin/HR, Manager Sunil Narain travel technology solutions participants to establish, Accounts, Manager Leisure company, that elaborated on renew and build successful making a total of 11 categories Chairman & Managing Director, the different segment of trav - partnerships with their and 96 awards. UNIGLOBE Air Travel Bureau ellers and how technology was preferred suppliers and gain playing a role in simplifying a better understanding of “The two days at the travel for them. their offerings. conference have been both tion sessions and entertain - Ritika Modi , Regional munication. His second ses- insightful and inspirational. ment packed evenings, the President, UNIGLOBE Travel sion focused on ways of chan - Sunil Narain , Chairman Top performing agencies After attending the conference, two-day conference turned out (South Asia). nelising the power of the mind & Managing Director, were rewarded for achieving we are better positioned to to be a great event. with the right effort for success UNIGLOBE Air Travel Bureau, the organisation’s highest make improvements that Michelle Desreux , COO in personal and professional says, “The UNIGLOBE standards of growth through can make all difference “UNIGLOBE Travel and Executive Director, lives. Another highlight of the Regional Conference has professionalism and customer and lead us towards greater (South Asia), organises the satisfaction at the conference. success,” concludes Paras conference every year to sup - Awards for top-level sales and Lakhia , Executive Member, port inter-agency networking, revenue growth achievements UFOA Board. professional development and The two days at the conference have been were given to the owners to build relationships with each both insightful and inspirational. After attending of UNIGLOBE member agen - The conference conclud - other and with key cies from across the South ed with a gala dinner themed, suppliers from the South the conference, we are better positioned to make Asia region. Also awarded ‘The Big Fat Indian Wedding’, Asian region, as well as improvements that can make all difference and were the top performing preceded by a comical play, other parts of the globe,” says agency personnel for continu - ‘Bottoms Up’, starring Anant Sanjay Arya, President, lead us towards greater success. ally pushing the benchmark of Mahadevan , Jayati Bhatia and UNIGLOBE Franchise Owners Paras Lakhia excellence higher. Bharat Dabholkar . Association (UFOA). Executive Member, UFOA Board

The conference saw the unveiling of the first ever tele - vision commercial by UNIGLOBE Travel (South conference was a session by emerged as one of the most UNIGLOBE Travel. Taglined, Asia), says, “Our theme for this celebrated actor, theatre sought out events for members ‘Travel. Simplified.’, the com - year, ‘Go for the Magic’, was artist and ad man, Bharat of the UNIGLOBE family and mercial targets corporate chosen to inspire UNIGLOBE Dabholkar , that stressed on the we are proud to be a part of it. and leisure travellers, position - Travel professionals to unleash significance of practice in a Like every year, this year’s ing UNIGLOBE as travel the hidden potential of their service driven industry like trav - conference has lived up to its procurement specialists, mind to deliver magical servic - el. His session where he also promise of offering new per - delivering high quality es to our clients by using spoke about his journey to suc - spectives and great insights Art of Persuasion by world renowned mentalist, Roy Zaltsman FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:23 AM Page 67

SPECIAL FEATURE NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 67 Conference creates magic

Gold award for Excellence in Domestic Travel Gold award for Excellence in International Gold award for Excellence in Leisure Gold award for Excellence in Manager Gold award for Excellence in Manager Gold award for Excellence in Manager Counselor category Travel Counselor category category Accounts category Admin, HR category Leisure category

Gold award for Excellence in Travel Accounts Gold award for Excellence in Travel Gold award for Excellence in Travel Gold award for Excellence in Travel Gold award for Excellence in Travel Silver award for Excellence in Domestic category Counselor category Facilitation category Manager category Sales category Travel Counselor category

Silver award for Excellence in International Silver award for Excellence in Leisure Silver award for Excellence in Manager Silver award for Excellence in Manager Silver award for Excellence in Manager Silver award for Excellence in Travel Travel Counselor category category Accounts category Admin, HR category Leisure category Accounts category

Silver award for Excellence in Travel Silver award for Excellence in Travel Silver award for Excellence in Travel Silver award for Excellence in Travel Bronze award for Excellence in Domestic Bronze award for Excellence in International Counselor category Facilitation category Manager category Sales category Travel Counselor category Travel Counselor category

Bronze award for Excellence in Leisure category Bronze award for Excellence in Manager Accounts category Bronze award for Excellence in Manager Admin, HR category Bronze award for Excellence in Travel Accounts category

Bronze award for Excellence in Travel Counselor category Bronze award for Excellence in Travel Facilitation category Bronze award for Excellence in Travel Manager category Bronze award for Excellence in Travel Sales category

UNIGLOBE Adyar Travel Bureau, awarded UNIGLOBE Air Travel Bureau, awarded for UNIGLOBE Air Travel Bureau, awarded for UNIGLOBE Bharath International Travel, UNIGLOBE CP Travel, awarded for Top UNIGLOBE Koniva Tours & Travel, awarded for super for super performance by TATA AIG super per formance by TATA AIG Top Sales & Revenue Volume & Top awarded for Top Sales Volume Revenue Growth performance by Tata AIG Sales Growth

UNIGLOBE Shergill Travel, awarded for Top Sales & Revenue Volume and Highest Sales & Revenue Growth

UNIGLOBE Le Travelworld, awarded for super UNIGLOBE Mod Travel, awarded for super UNIGLOBE Mod Travel, awarded for Top UNIGLOBE Sai Pooja Travel, awarded for Top per formance by TATA AIG performance by TATA AIG Revenue Growth Revenue Volume

UNIGLOBE Sri Sai Travel, awarded for Top Sales Growth

A comical play ‘Bottoms Up’, starring Anant Over 20 suppliers from various industries interacting with 300 Interactive Session with Bharat Dabhoklar, Ad man, who talks about his success UNIGLOBE Utopia Travel, awarded for super Mahadevan, Jayati Bhatia and Bharat Dabholkar participants story to the participants performance by Tata AIG FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:23 AM Page 68 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:23 AM Page 69

EXHIBITIONS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 69 Africa Travel Association: 40th Congress The Africa Travel Association (ATA) will hold its 40th Annual World Congress in Nairobi, Kenya from November 9-14, 2015.

TT BUREAU ATA Executive Director tourism to show that Kenya is emony at Lake Nakuru ground operators, airlines, Edward Bergman said, “On an incredible destination, is as a symbol of long-lasting hotels and accommodations, he international tourism the occasion of ATA’s 40th open for business, and relationships and as an initia- service providers, and travel Tmeeting will be hosted by anniversary, we are eager to deserves our attention. We tive to achieve a better media. Participants from the the Kenya Ministry of East return to Kenya for this mile- encourage the travel industry global environment. corporate, nonprofit and aca- African Affairs, Commerce and stone in ATA’s history. We are to stand with Kenya and sup- demic sectors are also expect- Tourism under the auspices of delighted to bring together the port tourism.” ATA Congress delegates ed to attend along with travel Cabinet Secretary Hon. public and private sectors, trav- include African tourism minis- and hospitality students. Phyllis Kandie. el industry, and media to par- During the Kenya Host ters, industry professionals Pre- and post-Congress ticipate in the Congress. This Country Day, delegates will of the Host Country Day and representing tourism boards, tours will also be available to Known as Magical also comes at an important visit the magnificent Lake an ATA tradition, delegates will destination representatives, explore Magical Kenya beyond Kenya, the country offers an time to showcase Kenyan Nakuru National Park. As part take part in a tree-planting cer- travel agents, tour operators, the Congress. abundance of wildlife opportunities, as well as an astonish-

Edward Bergman Executive Director ATA

We are delighted to bring together the public and private sectors, travel industry, and media to participate in the Congress

ing diversity of landscapes and cultures. As the East African hub for business and technology, the country is known for its excellent domestic travel infrastructure and the wide range of tourism activities and services it provides for its visitors. From tropical forests and beaches to vast deserts and majestic mountains, tourists in Kenya can experience a different safari every day.

ATA Congresses provide a unique networking, learning, and agenda-shaping platform for Africa tourism stakeholders. The 2015 programme will include a line-up of educational and professional development sessions; a Tourism Ministers’ Roundtable; sessions to Meet the Ministers, Meet the Media, and Africa Meets the World, where buyers and suppliers will meet; visits to Nairobi’s top sites; and a range of networking events, including a Kenya Culture Night and ATA Awards Ceremony, receptions, working lunches, and a gala dinner. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:23 AM Page 70

70 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 HOTELS IITTM’s HR Conclave focuses Kanha: Agents get 40% biz on skill development in trade Navneet Maheshwari, Owner, Kanha Village Eco Resort, says agents play a very important role for the resort and it offers premade and tailor-made packages for agents and tour operators.

TT BUREAU It’s a difficult task but we love the challenge. We do face What is the USP of some problems in our working Qyour resort? and maintenance but that is Kanha Village Eco Resort part of the game. Like, almost is an eco boutique wildlife lodge 90 per cent people working based at world famous Kanha with us are local tribal and train- National Park. We offer all mod- ing them to handle guests is ern amenities for guests within not very easy but that is part of a tribal village setting and mud our initiative to help them grow houses. Guests staying with us along with us and we will do it. get a chance to enjoy the rustic Navneet Maheshwari Owner luxury with feel of staying inside Kanha Village Eco Resort Do you deal with travel the forest which makes them Qagents? What pack- experience wilderness in a bet- ages do you offer them? ter way. complements our present busi- Travel agents are the ness which will be up and run- mouth, hands and leg of travel Will you be expanding ning hopefully by mid-2016. business. They help us in Qportfolio in the future? reaching wider market, tell the What locations would you Being an Eco Resort, travellers about us and work choose and why? Qwhat kind of chal- hard to help us in getting busi- Yes, we would love to lenges do you face? ness. We deal with travel expand but not in the immedi- At present we do not get agents and tour operators and ate future. Eco sensitive prop- lot of eco sensitive tourists but have on offer both premade erties do not get enough pref- we are sure by creating aware- and tailor made packages. erence. However, slowly the ness we will be able to get bet- At present our revenue awareness is increasing and ter response. Biggest chal- from travel agents is around 40 we hope that as demand rises lenge is to make our travellers per cent of total business Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management organised an HR Conclave on the occasion of World Tourism we would be able to offer the differentiate between a real and we generate and we are Day at its campus in Noida, with the theme of “One Billion Tourist One Billion Opportunities”. The central theme of same kind of rustic luxury to fake eco sensitive property expecting this will go up since HR Conclave was to nurture talent and skilling of youth to leverage the ‘One Billion’ opportunities so mooted by our guests at other wilderness since almost all accommoda- more and more travel agents the UNWTO for the tourism industry. Chief Guest for the occasion was His Excellency Ahmed Mohamed, High destinations. We are also plan- tion providers in any national are looking for eco sensitive Commissioner – Designate of Maldives to India. ning to enter rural tourism as it park write themselves as one. properties now. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:23 AM Page 71 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:23 AM Page 72

72 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 FAMILY ALBUM Trade partners explore B.C.

Destination Canada organised a Fam trip from September 19-27, 2015, for travel trade partners from across India to the province of British Columbia. The trip gave the trade partners an opportunity to experience varied locale of British Columbia. The group visited Kelowna, Vancouver, Victoria and Whistler. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:23 AM Page 73 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 74

74 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 FAMILY ALBUM Vkonect opens world of luxury The second edition of Vkonect Luxury was held from October 10-11, 2015, at The Westin, Gurgaon, where 25 India travel, luxury and hospitality companies participated in the premium B2B meetings platform. The two-day event witnessed networking sessions between luxury buyers and exhibitors, followed by exclusive business sessions in a tabletop and round-robin format. Guest speakers were also present at the event where they shared their thoughts on the growing luxury sector in India.

See more picture on page 80 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 75 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 76 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 77 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 78

78 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TECHNOLOGY Clay Telecom goes global Clay Telecom makes it easy to identify global partners to leverage market share both locally and internationally without making huge investments. Gaurav Dhawan, Executive Director, Clay Business Group, and Aditya Joshi, Chief Operating Officer, Clay Telecom, explain why partnering with their company is beneficial in order to expand business.

Group which started its oper- With a presence in interna- The substantial invest- nies are looking at bundling TT BUREAU ations in 2,000 as an international destinations and ment in infrastructure and com- their products with value-add hey say that gone are the tional mobility solutions India, the Clay Business prehensive CRM software has services. These help them Tdays when businessmen provider in India and Group is one of the fastest enabled Clay to streamline make a separate revenue used to run operations only in has now expanded its reach growing service providers business processes, make stream from ancillary services the local market. Now they in the US, UK, Europe and serving the HNI segment. the system robust and offer such as international SIM, understand the importance of Japan. They have not only “With our focus on service transparency to both partners insurance, forex etc., and offer going beyond their home grown geographically, but levels, we are the first and customers. a bouquet of services under country and reaching out to also forayed into different ver- brand of choice for world one roof to heighten their cus- larger market share. A perfect ticals like hospitality and leaders and its customers,” With immense opportuni- tomers’ travelling experience. example is the Clay Business the IT sector successfully. says Dhawan. ties available, the travel compa- Joshi says, “We are also adopt- Gaurav Dhawan Executive Director Clay Business Group

With our focus on service levels, we are the first brand of choice for world leaders and its customers

ing the same approach and are associating with global partners like American Express, Cox & Kings, Kuoni Travels, Flight Shops and others. Clay is also keen on expanding its operations in other international destinations and is actively looking at strategic partners in the US, the UK and Europe and other countries to become the first choice of an international traveller.”

Such strategic partnerships are enabling companies to set-up their business operations in India and beyond without investing in infrastructure, technology and human resources. This is a lucrative deal for both collaborating partners as it helps to cut down investment costs and improves their bottom line in the business. Joshi further states, “We are visiting international fairs like ITB Asia, WTM etc. in search of global partners and have also started discussions with large set- ups for mutual beneficial associations.”

Why partnering is beneficial? To expand business locally and internationally To bundle products with services and vice versa For exciting margins with great profits To offer value adds and build trust among customers FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 79 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 10/23/2015 4:35 PM Page 80

80 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 FAMILY ALBUM Luxury gains momentum with Vkonect Contd. from page 74 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 81 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 82

82 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 STATES

UP: A favourite with foreignersChhota Imambara, Lucknow

Uttar Pradesh contributed 12.9 per cent to the total share of FTAs to India and 14.3 per cent to the total domestic tourists coming to the state. Om Prakash Singh, Tourism Minister, Uttar Pradesh, tells about the tourism products that the state has to offer.

TT BUREAU received 29,097,359 foreign tourists in 2014 amounting to ttar Pradesh offers abun- a total share of 12.9 per cent Om Prakash Singh Udant attractions and tourist out of the top 10 states con- Tourism Minister Uttar Pradesh destinations for discerning tributing to FTAs. The number travellers. Singh says, “We of domestic tourists visiting UP may not have oceans and was 182,820,108 making it the mountains but the state makes second most popular state We had 404,133 up for it in terms of religious with a share of 14.3 per cent visitors who did and heritage sites of the high- out of the top 10 states con- est repute. We have the tributing to domestic tourism. e-ticketing for the world’s oldest city ‘Kashi’, and Taj from December Lord Rama’s birthplace “The Taj Mahal alone saw 2014 to April 2015. ‘Ayodhya,’ which see massive up to 6,072,263 visitors from domestic tourism.” January to December 2014, Out of these out of which 694,467 were for- 277,126 were Uttar Pradesh gets the eigners and 5,377,796 Indians,” third highest number of foreign Singh says. The e-ticketing for foreigners and tourists visiting the country. It Taj Mahal has received a posi- 127,007 Indians Taj Mahal South Gate

Taj Mahal Agra Fort

tive response. “We had 404,133 24, 2016, in Lucknow. The small areas/monuments/ visitors in total who booked state has allotted ` 441 crore events which were regionally through e-ticketing from to Mathura, Ayodhya and renowned but lacked national December 2014 to April 2015. Kashi Buddhist circuit out of exposure. Some such events Out of these 277,126 were for- the `1,600 crore received from are the Mangla Aarti, Dev eigners and 127,007 Indians,” World Bank as funds earlier Diwali and Bharat Milap in he adds. this year. Varanasi, Ramnagar Fort, and Shahi Taalab in Lucknow. We With the success of Uttar Discussing the tourism organise light and sound show Pradesh Travel Mart 2015, facilities provided by the state, in Jhansi and Sarnath, Singh showed enthusiasm Singh says, “Our renewed Varanasi, and a musical show about organising the next focus on heritage-based for the aficionados called Travel Mart from February 22- tourism has revived many Subah-e-Banaras.” Ganga Aarti FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 83 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 84

84 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 NEWS Tahiti DMC enters India Growing proximity to trade Mumbai-based Outbound Konnections will now represent RezLive.com is keen on working more closely with the travel Tahiti DMC Group in India for trade servicing, marketing and agents around the globe. Jaal Shah, Founder, RezLive.com, public relations activities. talks about its expansion plans.

TT BUREAU “The group witnessed expo- TT BU REAU the whole world at the finger- nential growth by capturing tips of our travel partners. We ahiti DMC Group has about 43 per cent of the mar- Tell us about are looking at expansion into Tappointed Outbound ket share from the Indian out- QRezLive’s new initia- Africa, Europe and other Konnections as its sales and bound tourism sector in the tives. markets within the Asia marketing representative for year 2014. The growing dis- Global expansion is on Pacific to get closer to the India. The Tahiti DMC Group is posable income along with the cards for us and we have local travel trade. a Destination Management changing lifestyle makes India focused on increasing both our Company of Tahiti and her a high potential market for regional and international pres- How do you work with Islands and comprises ‘Tahiti Tahiti and her islands.” ence this year with our new Qthe travel agents? Nui Travel’, ‘Tekura Tahiti Travel’ offices in Thailand, Sri Lanka Jaal Shah We are purely a B2B and ‘Tahiti Tours’. Anjum Lokhandwala Tekura Mullez, Director, and Romania. We also have Founder company and work hand-in- Director Tekura Tahiti Travel, adds, successfully launched our RezLive.com hand with travel partners. They Outbound Konnections Outbound Konnections “Though the total number of Thailand inbound product, play a vital role in the overall will be the local representative Indian arrivals to the ‘RezLive Thailand.’ This is the bound travel. Our aim is to con- growth and development of the of the Tahiti DMC Group and and conventional itineraries, Polynesian countries is not first choice of our travel partners tinue to consolidate our expan- organisation. We also try to be will be responsible for aggres- Tahiti with its realm of luxurious huge, the growth we have wit- who want to offer the best expe- sion into international markets, in constant touch with them sive sales and tourist promo- and traditional delights, offers nessed Year-on-Year has riences in Thailand to their like Africa and Europe, while through our sales team and the tion activities including travel distinct facets and attractions established a strong belief in clients. The key USPs of this maintaining growth in the different marketing activities trade servicing and soft that suit new and evolved trav- our making inroads and taking product are best price guaran- Middle East and Asia. We will and networking sessions we public relations. elers, especially for honey- the first step into India market.” tee, 24x7 support services, also continue working to give conduct regularly. We have mooners. Our initiatives will expertise operations team, our valued partners extra ordi- even started one of its kind Anjum Lokhandwala, focus on around making Tahiti Diana Chin Choi, round-the-year availability, cus- nary support service and diver- Product Training Session (cur- Director, Outbound the preferred destination of Director, Tahiti Tours, states, tomised beach activities and sified inventory. rently on a pilot stage in Konnections, says, “We are choice for luxury holidays and “Outbound Konnections has the local market understanding. Ahmedabad) in which we invite overwhelmed by our selection honeymooners’ delight. Our right network and approach, What new projects are local travel agents in different and the trust and confidence expanding portfolio highlights which can comprehend What is your growth Qyou focusing on now? batches/sessions and orient being bestowed by the Tahiti Outbound Konnections’ knowl- and achieve our objectives; Qstrategy? This year we will be them about different offerings DMC Group on our organisation edge and understanding of the destination positioning and the The Middle East and looking at revamping under our Travel Designer as their sales, marketing and Indian mindset.” distribution reach, thereby, Asian regions especially India RezLive.com and making our Group Umbrella. We will con- PR arm for the India markets. augmenting the Indian traffic have delivered an outstanding inventory bigger than ever by tinue doing more such activities With the new age Indian trav- Raphaela Taufa, and higher revenue generation performance due to demand for contracting with other leading to further cement out strong eller exploring beyond the set Director, Tahiti Nui Travel, says, to the group.” this market for inbound and out- hotel chains, so that we put relationship with them. Buggy rides for hotels Maini Materials in enhancing ‘guest experience’ in the hospitality sector. SA Mohan, CEO, Maini Materials, IHA winner shares the future initiatives of the company.

TT BUREAU This year, we plan to introduce new Maini Buggy Tell us about your with futuristic and first-of-its- Qorganisation? kind features, revolutionising Maini Materials the Battery Operated Vehicles Movement is a premium brand (BOV) industry. in material-movement and in- campus electric mobility solu- Are you facing any tions. The first mass produced Qkind of challenges? electric car – Reva, India’s first Going green has been on comprehensive range of bat- the agenda and it’s now one of SA Mohan tery operated material han- CEO the fastest growing trends. In dling equipment and only India Maini Materials, IHA Winner this effort, many are opting for – made electric buggies, are BOV at their premises and testimony to this. We operate hence confirms on the scope of from a state-of-the-art design keeping, laundry, fire safety, growth in the usage of BOV in and manufacturing facility mail transfers etc. unconventional spaces, apart based in the Indian IT capital, from hospitality and lifestyle Bengaluru, leveraging What are the new ini- industry. The challenge lies in best-in-class processes and Qtiatives that the com- tapping into this latent demand technology. pany is taking? which can only be achieved We recently launched through increased awareness What are the products Wheel Chair Buggy for the first among the different users. Qand services that time in India, for people with you offer? Reduced Mobility (PRM). With MMM is an original a capacity for two PRM with Smooth Ride equipment manufacturer in three escorts and 150 kg bag- India to manufacture buggies gage, this buggy is ergonomi- Maini Materials spe- – Battery operated vehicles cally designed with special cialises in custom (BOV). We offer passenger emphasis on passengers’ made buggies for buggies in two, four, six, eight, safety, helping airports, hospi- cargo, F&B, house- 11 and 14 seating options. We tals, large corporate and edu- keeping, laundry, fire specialise in custom made cational premises to be safety, mail transfers buggies for cargo, F&B, house- ‘Disabled friendly’. etc. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 85 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 86

86 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 FAMILY ALBUM Thailand’s third luxury showcase

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently held its third ‘Amazing Thailand Luxurious Pleasure Roadshow’ where 16 luxurious service providers and representatives from the best boutique and luxury hotels, resorts and airlines, golf course and premium inbound travel agents from Thailand showcased and promoted their products to the Indian travel agents. FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 87 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 88

88 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 STATES MP showcases over 100 products

The Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart 2015, held from October 16-18 at Lakeview Ashok, Bhopal, highlighted the state’s potential in wildlife, heritage, culture and tourism, and welcomed the presence of 200 buyers and media from over 20 countries.

TT BUREAU the biggest gathering of pil- India (TAAI), Sarab Jit Singh, grims in the country and we Vice President, Federation of he second edition of would like to invite travel With 2015 being the Visit MP Year, the Associations in Tourism and TMadhya Pradesh Travel agents to promote this event in government has initiated several Hospitality (FAITH), Jyoti Mart took place over three a big way,” he added. Kapur, President, Association days in Bhopal where over 200 projects to increase visitors to the state to of Domestic Tour Operators buyers attended the B2B plat- Surendra Patwa, Minister see some of the country’s best kept world of India (ADTOI), Capt. form to share and explore busi- for Tourism, Government of Swadesh Kumar, Vice ness opportunities for discern- Madhya Pradesh, mentioned heritage sites, and it’s amazing landscapes. Chairman, Indian Convention ing travel and tourism products. about the various proposals and The state also offers a safe and secure Promotion Bureau (ICPB), schemes by the Madhya Akshay Kumar, President, During the inauguration, Pradesh Government, to give a environment. ATOAI, among many others. Madhya Pradesh Chief fillip to the industry in the state. Minister Shivraj Singh Veera Rana, IAS, Secretary Shivraj Singh Chouhan Chouhan said, “With 2015 Tourism, MP Government gave Chief Minister being the Visit MP Year, the details of the second edition of Madhya Pradesh government has initiated sev- MPTM while Subhash Goyal, In the heart of India eral projects to increase visi- President, Indian Association of MP unveiled tourism tors to the state to see some of Tour Operators, spoke about the from Madhya Pradesh such as Australia, South Africa, United ent at the travel mart. The inau- products such as pil- the country’s best kept world various facets of the tourism pilgrimage, heritage, adven- Kingdom, USA, Canada, guration saw the presence of grimage, heritage, heritage sites, and it’s amazing industry and how Madhya ture, corporate hotels, wildlife Germany, France, Italy, the who’s who from the travel adventure, corporate landscapes. The state also Pradesh has been at the fore- resorts, travel agents and tour Bulgaria, UAE, Sri Lanka, trade and hospitality industry, hotels, wildlife resorts, offers a safe and secure envi- front of tourism marketing. operators, handicrafts, culture Latvia, Greece, Ireland, namely Jyoti Mayal, Member travel agents and tour ronment. With the Simhastha pursuits of Madhya Pradesh. Philippines, Malaysia, Managing Committee, operators, handicrafts, 2016 taking place from April 22 The event showcased Travel trade and hospitality del- Indonesia, Poland, Slovakia, Chairperson Airline Council, culture pursuits to May 21, we will see one of over 100 different products egates from countries like Czech Republic, etc were pres- Travel Agents Association of 200 buyers from 20 countries connect @MPTM FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 89 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 90 OPPORTUNITY CLIPBOARD

NOVEMBER 2015

INTERNATIONAL 2-5 London World Travel Mart 8 - 9 Brussels, Belgium UFTAA AGA + Forum 17-19 Barcelona, Spain IBTM, World

NATIONAL 6-8 Visakhapatnam Holiday Expo 19 Chandigarh India Hospitality Awards North and East 20-22 Guwahati Travel & Tourism Fair 22-24 Amritsar CII Tourism Fest 22-24 Chandigarh CII Tourism Fest 23 Delhi German National Tourist Office B2B Roadshow 24 Bengaluru German National Tourist Office B2B Roadshow 25 Ahmedabad German National Tourist Office B2B Roadshow 25 Mumbai Monaco Government Tourist & Convention Bureau B2B Roadshow 26 Mumbai German National Tourist Office Networking Event 27 Mumbai German National Tourist Office B2B Roadshow 27 Delhi Monaco Government Tourist & Convention Bureau B2B Roadshow 27-29 Pune India International Travel Mart 27-29 Ahmedabad India Travel Mart 27-29 Kolkata Travel East

DECEMBER 2015

NATIONAL 1-3 Bhuj Rann Utsav 3 Delhi European Quartet B2B Workshop 4 Bengaluru European Quartet B2B Workshop 4-6 Hyderabad India International Travel Mart 5-7 Jaipur India Travel Mart 5-13 Kolkata East Himalayan Expo 5 Mumbai European Quartet B2B Workshop 11-13 Madurai India International Travel Exhibition 18-20 Siliguri Tourism Fair 23-27 Haridwar CII Uttarakhand Fair

JANUARY 2016

INTERNATIONAL 20-24 Madrid, Spain FITUR 11-13 Milan, Italy BIT NATIONAL 8-10 Nagpur Global Panorama Showcase 8-10 Chennai Travel & Tourism Fair 14-16 Kochi India International Travel Mart 15-17 Bengaluru Travel & Tourism Fair 15-17 Mumbai India International Travel & Tourism Exhibition 22-24 Nagpur India International Travel Exhibition 22-24 Coimbatore Holiday Expo 29-31 Delhi Satte

For more information, contact us at: [email protected] FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 91

CLIPBOARD NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 91 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 92 HOTELS Largest pillarless ballroom Pullman Novotel New Delhi Aerocity is ready to open its doors from November. Tristan Beau De Lomenie, General Manager-Delegate, Pullman Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, tells us about the hotel’s large pillarless ballrooms and other distinct features.

ANUPRIYA BISHNOI Also Pullman New Delhi expanding rapidly in this seg- Aerocity has the largest pillar- ment through its Novotel and What is the USP of less ballrooms with 13 meeting ibis brands. Qyour property? How is rooms, three boardrooms and your hotel different from a business centre, each aes- There is an equitable dis- the rest? thetically designed with state- tribution of room supply across The biggest USP of our of-the-art technology. The ver- the different areas that indicate hotel is the guests staying with satile meeting rooms can be a maturing hotel market. We us in either of our hotels, adapted to suit various size are also witnessing the whether it is Pullman or and format requirements with upscale hotel segments follow- Novotel, are free to visit the flexible seating layouts. ing closely behind. With restaurants and other public Tristan Beau De Lomenie renewed economic senti- General Manager-Delegate areas without any limitations of Novotel New Delhi Pullman Novotel New Delhi Aerocity ments, momentous growth in the other hotel. Pullman New Aerocity, a unique premium the market and the recent changes in visa policies, we With renewed economic sentiments, What are your expec- are positive that the country momentous growth in the market Qtations in terms of will drive more inbound busi- ARR and Occupancy for ness travel. and the recent changes in visa the coming year? policies, we are positive that the We remain upbeat with country will drive more inbound the long term growth prospects Salient Features in the hospitality industry, business travel especially as global travel con- Pullman New Delhi tinues to increase with the rise Aerocity has the largest Delhi Aerocity is located in the combo from AccorHotels, of the middle class pillarless ballrooms with trendiest new destination in the combines modernity, design, market. The optimistic 13 meeting rooms, capital and is a perfect mix of and simplicity. The outlook of the hospitality indus- three boardrooms and a luxury and convenience. Our virtual concierge at the try suggests solid growth business centre guests at Pullman can choose lobby of Novotel called with economy and business The Moncierge at the from a selection of dining Moncierge is an interactive hotels segments forming a Novotel is an interactive options –Café Pluck, Honk, forum that helps guests to larger percentage of the forum that helps Pling. Our 16,000 sq ft spa - check flight timings, to give total room inventory and guests check flight tim- Woo with eight treatment feedback on the hotel and now accounting for nearly half ings, to give feedback rooms and a heated swimming learn about the happenings of all the hotel rooms in the and learn about the pool attracts leisure guests. around the city. country. AccorHotels is events in the city Delivering agents’ promises Prafulla Mathur, CEO and Founder, WUDSTAY, talks about expectations from WTM and hopes for an increased inbound travel.

TT BUREAU to sell the potential markets of Discussing the expected India.” WUDSTAY has been growth of inbound travel UDSTAY, a five-month working with travel agents in a Mathur expressed, “The Wold company has taken big way. Mathur says, “Travel inbound sector shall definetly to standardise the facilities pro- agents are an important grow better with the e-Tourist vided in budget hotels and aspect of business. We are Visa facility coming in. At our is working towards offering looking at increasing their rev- end, we are maintaining the better value propostions to enue, and deliver on services standards, providing staff train- their travel agent partners and that they promise their clients ing and embracing hospitality their clients. to further business.” Talking nuances even at the level of about the product and its deliv- budget hotels. The brands are “We feel the country has ery, Mathus adds, “We believe doing a brilliant job with their Prafulla Mathur been painted in a bad light CEO and Founder that travel agents need to be services and we are making where the traveller may feel WUDSTAY confident about the products sure that the budget unsafe and dirty and thus hotels also pull up to the thinks more before travelling. standardised expectations.” However, at WTM, one of the We believe that travel agents need largest gatherings of travel to be confident about the products Mathur identifies and cat- trade professionals, we hope that they showcase and this can egories the popular inbound that this image is dispelled and tourism circuits based on loca- we are able to communicate to only happen when we as travel tions. “There are many popular the foreign traveller that we companies back them up with tourism circuits, like Russia- have taken care of all short- efficient and good services Goa is a huge corridor; Israel- comings and are on our way to Himachal Pradesh is another. better facilities and value addi- Lot of backpackers come to tions,” says Prafulla Mathur, to sell India better, Mathur that they showcase and Rishikesh, Kerela is another CEO and Founder, WUDSTAY. says, “We just need to deliver this can only happen when popular circuit. We can cate- on our promises made to the we as travel companies back gorise these circuits as adven- Discussing the various client. If you do this alone, we them up with efficient and ture tourism, heritage, well- efforts made by travel agents shall not need any marketing good services.” ness, leisure, religious etc.” FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:24 AM Page 93

CLIPBOARD NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAVTALK 93 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:25 AM Page 94

94 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 MOVEMENTS

Cozmo Travel Hilton Worldwide Four Points by Sheraton Mumbai Gurgaon Vishakhapatnam Praveen Nair has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer of Hilton Worldwide announced the appointment of Kaushik Four Points by Sheraton Vishakhapatnam has recently appointed Cozmo Travel. He has nearly 22 years of experience in the travel Vardharajan as Vice President, Development – India. His career Mayank Uniyal as the Director of Sales & Marketing. Uniyal comes industry. He started his career with a GDS with the firm spans almost 15 years and with a vast experience of 14 years in the hos- company and then went on to the online included positions in North America and pitality industry and has worked with reput- platform. His last assignment was with Asia. Most recently, as Partner Managing ed hotels including IHG, The Leela Hotels, a Thailand DMC. Cozmo Travel India is Director, Asia Pacific, HVS Hospitality Sarovar Hotels and Starwood Hotels. Prior Air Arabia-owned travel company with Services, Vardharajan spearheaded to this, he was the Director of Sales with more than 70 branches within UAE and strategy for the region driving overall Holiday Inn Cochin, where he led the GCC. The Mumbai branch will be its first performance of the firm. He holds a sales, marketing and revenue functions. branch in India. Masters in Hospitality Administration as In his new role, Uniyal will be spearhead well as a Bachelor of Science in Hotel – Strategic Sales & Marketing initiatives. Restaurant / Institutional Management from Johnson & Wales University, Providence, RI.

Park Plaza Marriott Hotels Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa Gurgaon Kochi Goa Harpreet Vohra has been appointed as the General Manager at Rejin Thomas has been appointed as the new multi property Sunishchal Parasnis has been appointed as Director of Sales for Park Plaza Gurgaon. Prior to this, Vohra was working at Radisson Director of Sales & Marketing for Marriott hotels in Kochi: Kochi Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa, the first Park Hyatt Hotel in India. Blu Agra. An enriching experience of 17 years Marriott hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Kochi After a fruitful tenure at Grand Hyatt Mumbai includes his stints at Hyatt International, Taj Airport hotel. Thomas comes with over 11 in various roles in the Sales and Marketing Hotels, Golkonda Resorts and Angsana years of experience in the hospitality industry. team, Parasnis will be supervising and Spa, The Lalit New Delhi and Hyatt Prior to joining Kochi Marriott hotels, Thomas supporting the sales and events team of Regency in Mumbai. He holds a bach- was the Director Sales & Marketing of the the hotel both in Mumbai and Goa. He elor’s degree in commerce from Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention has been associated with the hospitality Bhopal University along with Center and Courtyard by Marriott, industry for almost a decade now, with Hotel Management. Hyderabad. Thomas has been with Marriott nine years in Hyatt India. since June 2012. Previously he had been working with The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts.

Mosaic Hotels Pullman Novotel New Delhi Aerocity The Westin Pune, Koregaon Park Noida New Delhi Pune Mosaic Hotels, Noida, has appointed Lalit Sharma as the new Ram Chatterjee has been appointed as ‘Director of Spa’ at Pullman Manmeet B. Singh has been appointed as the Director of Food and Assistant F&B Manager. A hotel management graduate, Sharma Novotel New Delhi Aerocity. Chatterjee comes with more than 20 Beverage at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park. He will be responsible began his career as an Assistant F&B Manager with years of experience in hospitality industry. In his for enhancing and sustaining guest experiences at all restaurants, The Oberoi Maidens Hotel, New Delhi and new role at Pullman Novotel New Delhi bars and events at The Westin Pune. was promoted as F&B Supervisor with the Aerocity, Chatterjee will be responsible Singh’s career in the hospitality industry same hotel. He worked for a decade in for developing the concept of flagship spans over almost two decades and The Oberoi Maidens Hotel, New Delhi. Spa & Fitness division of Accor India includes maximum experience in the Sharma will be responsible for enhanc- Group of hotels based in New Delhi, food and beverage department, being ing the image of the organisation through India. Chatterjee has been associated associated with hotel chains such Hyatt directing business & planning and also with hotels and like Grand Hyatt Goa, and Intercontinental Hotels. Prior to The enhance on establishing Mosaic Hotels, Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Hyatt Regency Westin Pune Koregaon Park, he worked Noida as the main choice among the dis- Kolkata, Taj hotels and ITC hotels. at the Hyatt Regency, Ludhiana as the cerning customers. Director of Food & Beverage.

Vikas Suri, Associate Vice President, Lords Hotels & Resorts, Pankaj Saxena, General Manager, Country Inn & Suites Santoshh Kumar Sharmma, Director and Vice President, is a go-getter and believes in acting quickly. “With whatever By Carlson, Mysore, says he balances his time between Foresee Aviation, is a cricket buff. "I am a big cricket fan and free time I get, I spend that with family and close friends. I enjoy hotel operations and spending quality time with family. whenever I get time, I play cricket with my eight years old son weekends with my daughter, indulging in swimming or a game "Most of the personal time I have, I spend with family, and friends," he says. In his free time, Sharmma likes to listen of tennis or badminton. I also like to read and especially my daughter," he says. to Kishore Kumar's songs. He also has listen to music. In leisure time I also Saxena likes to travel and study an interest in photography. "In love to cook and explore different graphology. "Trekking and India, I have travelled to many cuisine,” he adds. Suri says as he nature exploration expedition cities. However, my favourite travels a lot, he makes sure that he is my keen interest too," he will always remain Jaipur for samples the popular dish of that adds. He prefers Kerala cuisine its historical places like Jal area. Alaska and Caribbean and loves to travel to Goa, Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, etc. As islands are my favourite West Europe and Southeast far as a foreign destination is destinations and would love to visit Asia with his family. concerned, I thoroughly enjoyed them again with family my trip to Maldives," he says. sometime in Sharmma adds that he loves the near Indian cuisines, especially future.” South Indian food.

Talking People is a special dedicated corner, created as a sounding board for who’s who of the Indian and International travel industry. With Talking People, it is our endeavour to bring you face-to-face with people.Contributed by: Ruchi J. Singh & Shivani Kaul FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:25 AM Page 95 FINAL_TTNovember-1st_2015:TT Layout 11/2/2015 10:25 AM Page 96

Postal Reg. No.: DL(ND)-11/6044/2015-16-17; WPP No.: U(C)-178/2015-17 for posting on 1st-2nd and 16th-17th of the same month at New Delhi PSO, New Delhi - 110001, RNI No.: 53492/1991 Date of Publication:30-10-2015 Tier II cities on the horizon With a clear focus on offering lower fares without compromising on quality, AirAsia India will be investing more in the India market and connecting more destinations, especially Tier II cities, says Mittu Chandilya, CEO & Managing Director, AirAsia India.

TT BUREAU

Tata has recently upped its Qstake. How does this development change AirAsia India's plans? The very fact that the Tatas have tunity in the increased their stake in the airline indi- country and we cates that they trust us and that they will be investing more. Although our policies, etc. Though the Indian aviation believe in our growth strategy. Both AirAsia plans have changed, our vision has not is a challenging one, nothing has and the Tata Group have some great val- been altered. Our focus has been to be deterred us from taking the risk and ues and together we have already been a pioneer in offering low fares to our spreading our wings. successful in stirring the airline market in guests without compromising on quality. India. We are now focused on increasing Are there any new developments frequency and we will continue to work How has the Indian aviation Qat AirAsia India that we can look towards enabling every Indian to fly the Qmarket evolved since AirAsia forward to? true low cost way. We have aggressive entered India? At AirAsia we are constantly work- plans for the near future and the next AirAsia India completely ratio- ing towards the development of our prod- phase for AirAsia India is growth. nalised the fares when it entered the ucts and services. Our premium seats Indian market. Even during the low sea- and variety of great food options have What is the kind of roadmap you son, we have managed to stimulate book- left a mark in our corporate travellers. Qhave planned for the next year? ings through our much awaited ‘Big AirAsia India is the only Indian LCC to offer a loyalty program to its flyers with BIG. Guests can earn and redeem flights on AirAsia India and other international We are now focused on flights operated by the AirAsia Group by increasing frequency and we signing up for our Loyalty Program with BIG. We also have a corporate product will continue to work towards called ‘Premium Flex’ which gives our enabling every Indian to fly the guests more flexibility in their booking and travel with value added bundles. We true low cost way. We have also have something called the ‘Red aggressive plans for the near Carpet’ service that gives guests addi- future and the next phase for tional privileges on their travel. We are looking to expand our fleet size, increase AirAsia India is growth. our frequencies and add more new routes which will offer enhanced connec- Mittu Chandilya tivity to our customers. CEO & Managing Director AirAsia India AirAsia Facts AirAsia India commenced opera- Our strategy has always been to Sales’ and promotional fares. We are also tions in June 2014 make air travel affordable to every slowly getting Indian travellers to get used The airline currently has Bengaluru, Indian. With that thought in mind, our pri- to the concept of early bookings. mary focus will be to increase frequency Planning their travel in advance works Kochi, Goa, Chandigarh, Jaipur, in the current destinations we travel to. out to be much more cost-effective for Pune, Vizag, New Delhi, Guwahati Beyond that, we will also be looking at the guests as there is a general rise in and Imphal on its destination connecting more destinations especially price trends while booking close to the network Tier II markets. period of travel. AirAsia expects the civil aviation policy to quash the 5/20 rule among The new civil aviation policy will Aviation in India is going through so other developmental and regulatory have a great amount of impact on our air- many changes right now and the last changes line’s performance. We do look forward six months have been quite a run for the It sees necessary approvals, to the quashing of 5/20 rule among other industry. Compared to the global sce- increase in air turbine fuel, airport developmental and regulatory changes nario, the obvious roadblock has been that the civil aviation policy can bring. I necessary approvals, increase in air charges, and changing policies as have to admit that we see a great oppor- turbine fuel, airport charges, changing obvious roadblock C E O ,

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4 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 WEST INDIA TRAVEL AWARDS

GALLERY OF LEGENDS Kesari Raoji Patil , Founder and Chairman, Kesari Tours joins the ‘ Gallery of Legends ’. He is felicitated by Dilip Parulekar , Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, Nikhil Desai , Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation, Tanushree Pandey , Mrs India 2015 and SanJeet , Director, DDP Group

DDP GAME CHANGER Urrshila Kerkar , Executive Director, Cox & Kings joins the ‘ DDP Game Changer ’. She is felicitated by Dilip Parulekar , Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, Nikhil Desai , Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation, Tanushree Pandey , Mrs India 2015 and SanJeet , Director, DDP Group NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAV TALK 5

TOURISM AMBASSADOR Arjun Sharma , Chairman & Managing Director, The Select Group and Le Passage to India joins the ‘ Tourism Ambassador ’. He is felicitated by Dilip Parulekar , Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, Nikhil Desai , Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation, Tanushree Pandey , Mrs India 2015 and SanJeet , Director, DDP Group

DDP TRAILBLAZER Nitan Chhatwal , Chairman & Managing Director, Shrem Group was awarded the ‘ DDP Trailblazer ’ and was received by Krishani Chhatwal, Director, Shrem Group on his behalf. She accepts the award from Dilip Parulekar , Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, Nikhil Desai , Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation, Tanushree Pandey , Mrs India 2015 and SanJeet , Director, DDP Group

FACE OF THE FUTURE Ruchir Bang , Executive Director, roomsXML Solutions. joins the ‘ Face of the Future ’. He is felicitated by Dilip Parulekar , Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, Nikhil Desai , Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation, Tanushree Pandey , Mrs India 2015 and SanJeet , Director,DDP Group 6 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 WEST INDIA TRAVEL AWARDS

Chief Guest Dilip Parulekar , Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa being honoured with Pearl Trophy ‘Maya’

Guest of Honour Nikhil Desai , Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation being honoured with Pearl Trophy ‘Maya’

Thanking Tanushree Pandey , Mrs India 2015 for her support to India Travel Awards NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAV TALK 7

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR The award was given to Aparna Basu Mallik , CEO, Club7 Holidays and was felicitated by Dilip Parulekar , Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, Nikhil Desai , Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation, Tanushree Pandey , Mrs India 2015 and SanJeet , Director, DDP Group

BEST AIRLINE The award was given to SpiceJet and received by Kamal Hingorani, Sr. VP & Head of Inflight Services and Customer Experience, SpiceJet

BEST TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY The award was given to Travstarz Holiday & Destinations and received by its Managing Director, Pankaj Nagpal

BEST LUXURY MICE & WEDDING HOTEL The award was given to Sayaji Indore and received by its Corporate Head Sales & Marketing, Vishal Kumar 8 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 WEST INDIA TRAVEL AWARDS

BEST TOUR OPERATOR - OUTBOUND The award was given to World Travel Studio and received by its Founder and Managing Director, Haresh Koyande

BEST CITY HOTEL The award was given to Novotel Pune and received by its Director of Sales & Marketing, Rohit Chopra and General Manager, Bandish Mehta

BEST VISA FACILITATION COMPANY The award was given to TT Services and received by its Senior Manager - New Projects and Transitions, Gaurav Talwar and Global Marcoms Manager, Madhu Bharthi V

BEST NTO The award was given to Department of Tourism Philippines and received by its Account Director, Navritu K Rai and Senior Sales Manager, Shubhangi Chitre NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAV TALK 9

FASTEST GROWING HOTEL BRAND - FRANCHISE The award was given to Ramada and received by its Director Sales & Marketing - Indian Ocean, EMEAI, Amit Garg

BEST FOREIGN EXCHANGE COMPANY The award was given to Centrum Direct and received by its Senior Vice President and General Manager - West, New Initiatives & Tie ups , Anil Menon

BEST SPA & WELLNESS RESORT The award was given to Grand Mercure Goa Shrem Resort and received by its General Manager, Rohan Sable

BEST LUXURY CAMP The award was given to The Ultimate Travelling Camp and received by its COO, Rajnish Sabharwal 10 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 WEST INDIA TRAVEL AWARDS

BEST LUXURY HOTEL The award was given to JW Marriott Hotel Mumbai Sahar and received by its General Manager, Saeid Heidari

BEST LUXURY TOUR OPERATOR The award was given to Meandering Vacations and received by its Director, Amita Nair and Director, Deepali Wagle

BEST DESTINATION MARKETING CAMPAIGN The award was given to South Africa Tourism and received by Country Manager, Hanneli Slabber

BEST BEACH DESTINATION The award was given to Goa Tourism Development Corporation and received by its GTDC PRO, Deepak Narvekar NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAV TALK 11

BEST SMART CITY TOURISM The award was given to Lavasa Tourism and received by its Asst. Vice President Tourism, Bhupesh Kumar

BEST MICE OPERATOR The award was given to Club 7 Holidays and received by its Vice President - Western India, Rajesh Bist

BEST BUSINESS HOTEL The award was given to Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre and received by its Director of Sales and Marketing, Mayuresh Deodhar

BEST TRAVEL PORTAL The award was given to atlastravelsonline.com and received by its Director, Hussain Patel 12 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 WEST INDIA TRAVEL AWARDS

BEST DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANY - AMERICA’S The award was given to 7M Tours and received by its Director, Akarsh Kolaprath

BEST MID MARKET HOTEL The award was given to Mercure Lavasa and received by its General Manager, Novotel Lavasa & Area General Manager Lavasa Hotels & Convention Centre, Manish Dayya and Hotel Manager, Mercure Lavasa and Lavasa International Convention Centre, Sachin Malhotra

BEST CORPORATE TRAVEL PRACTICE The award was given to Mahindra & Mahindra and received by its Deputy General Manager AO & TRS, John D’sa and VP AFS Admin ER and CSR, Vijay Nair

BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL The award was given to Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa and received by its Director Operations and Business Development (India), Nihit Srivastava NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAV TALK 13

BEST GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM (GDS) The award was given to Travelport Galileo and received by its Regional Head West, Anesh Kavle and Business Development Manager - Goa, Melicio Fernandes

BEST SPORTS TOURISM COMPANY The award was given to Sports Konnect and received by its CEO, Shashank Shekhar Mishra

BEST EMERGING TRAVEL SHOW The award was given to Global Panorama Showcase, Nagpur and received by Jagsons Travels’ Executive Director, Jagtar Singh Sethi and Managing Director, Harmandeep Singh Anand

BEST ALL INCLUSIVE HOTEL The award was given to Heritage Village Club Goa and received by its General Manager, Guitry Velho 14 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 WEST INDIA TRAVEL AWARDS

BEST CORPORATE INCENTIVE TOUR OPERATOR The award was given to Kesari Tours and received by its Vice Chairperson, Sunita Patil

BEST DESIGN & WELL MAINTAINED HOTEL The award was given to Novotel Goa Shrem Resort and received by its General Manager, Rohan Sable

BEST CUSTOMISED TOUR OPERATOR The award was given to Hither and Thither Tours and Travels and received by its Director, Nilesh Singh and Director, Meghana Gautam

BEST DEBUT MID-MARKET HOTEL The award was given to Effotel Hotel by Sayaji and received by its General Manager, Kunal Katoch NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAV TALK 15

BEST BOUTIQUE RESORT The award was given to Upper Deck Resort, Lonavala and received by its General Manager, Saurabh J. Bamane

BEST INNOVATIVE PRODUCT OF THE YEAR The award was given to JJ’s Tours and received by its Managing Director, Jagrut Thakkar

MOST INNOVATIVE TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY The award was given to Bonton Holidays and received by its Founder and Managing Director, Avanish Sharma

BEST GAMING DESTINATION The award was given to Deltin Royale and received by its Manager Marketing, Floyd Tavares 16 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 WEST INDIA TRAVEL AWARDS

FASTEST GROWING FOREIGN EXCHANGE COMPANY The award was given to Weizmann Forex and received by its Managing Director, B.S. Shetty

BEST ECONOMY HOTEL The award was given to ibis Navi Mumbai and received by Associate Director of Sales, Ashuthosh Ruia

BEST TRAVEL SHOW The award was given to IITT - Mumbai and received by its Exhibition Director, Mohit Mewani NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAV TALK 17

PARTNER STATE The award was given to Goa Tourism and received by Dilip Parulekar , Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, Nikhil Desai , Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation

HOSPITALITY PARTNER The award was given to Grand Mercure Goa Shrem Resort and received by General Manager, Rohan Sable

BEVERAGE PARTNER The award was given to Aspri Spirits and received by its Area Manager - Telangana & Goa, Geethanjali Rajput 18 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 WEST INDIA TRAVEL AWARDS Maya hangs out with travel NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAV TALK 19 trade glitterati in Goa 20 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 WEST INDIA TRAVEL AWARDS Talent in the West recognised NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAV TALK 21 through India Travel Awards 22 TRAV TALK NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 WEST INDIA TRAVEL AWARDS Maya only for the best in NOVEMBER 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2015 TRAV TALK 23 West India travel trade