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TravTalkIndia.comkIndia.com PagesP : 32+8Pages Supplement 6/4/2018 12:48:00 PM ` 50/- TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 2 6/4/2018 12:48:03 PM TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 3 Vol. XXXIssue11; June 1 &RQYHQWLRQ5HVRUWVDQG6SD%HQJDOXUXEDJJHGWKH''37UDLOEOD] QHQWRD$URWZV '*P&KDQJHU *DPH ''3 ZDV $LUSRUW ,QWHUQDWLRQDO ofLegendstrophywhile SherifTravel theGallery Chairman, wasconferred andCargoServices, ,)6RIÀFHUDQG0DQDJLQJ'LUHFWRU.DUQDWDND6WDWH7RXULVP'HYHO Attractions ruletheroostforIndians Gallery ofLegends: SherifSalman Gallery son, NigelColaco) DDP Trailblazer: Colaco(receivedbyhis Ronald The 5 Maya glittersinSouthyetagain ddppl.comddppl.com th edition of India Travel Awards—South was held at Clarks Exotica Convention Resort and Spa, Bengaluru, amidst the stalwarts of editionofIndiaTravel amidstthestalwarts andSpa,Bengaluru, Awards—South washeld atClarksExoticaConventionResort st fortnight i fortnight ssue 2018 were othertravel factors, with15.4percenteach. approximately agoodnumber ofvacationers. Shoppingandadventure With travelling becomingaway oflife, Indiansseemtobeupbeatabout attractions, accordingtoapoll. Beachesfollowed suit,catchingthefancy of their summerplans. Interestingly, theirholidays aremostlydriven by Vivek Kumar DDPTrailblazer: VivekKumar 0QJQ'UFR OUV UM RHV3LH RSWOWDQG +RVSLWDOLW\ 3ULGH +RWHOV %ULM &ODUNV 'LUHFWRU 0DQDJLQJ  A DDPPUBLICATION HUDZDUG RSPHQW&RUSRUDWLRQDQG Nirupa Shankar DDP Game Changer: Raj Andrade DDP GameChanger:Raj Anita Mishra 'LUHFWRU%ULJDGHKRVSLWDOLW\ZDVDZDUGHGWKH''3)DFHRIWKH Raj Andrade Raj *ODGUDJV0UV,QGLD0DKDUDVKWUDSUHVLGHGRYHUWKHFHUHPR 9LFH3UHVLGHQW³%XVLQHVV'HYHORSPHQW0DUNHWLQJDQG6WUDWHJ\

(C) Shopping TravTalkIndia.com (D) Adventure DDP Face oftheFuture: NirupaShankar Pages : 32+8Pages Supplement UMDD RSWOWDQG +RVSLWDOLW\ %ULMUDPD (D) 15.4% (C) 15.4% the tourismindustry. ChiefGuest 7.7% 7.7% (E) (B) 23.1% (E) Others (A) 38.5% Ronald Colaco Ronald

)XWXUHWLWOH (A) (B) Beach Attractions 6/4/2018 12:48:09 PM , Owner, ClarksExotica ` Kumar Pushkar 50/- Q\ Sherif Salman %HQJDOXUX , an , an , TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 4 6/4/2018 12:48:12 PM BULLETIN Cancel ticket free of charge According to MoCA’s draft passenger charter, cancellation charges won't be levied for air tickets. However, it has to be within 24 hours of booking and not less than 96 hours before boarding.

Nisha Verma charter has been released in ture, he will have to pay a can- the public domain for consulta- cellation charge.” ayant Sinha 0LQLVWHU RI tion and we want inputs from all JState, Civil Aviation unveiled stakeholders on this. We have Sinha also revealed that the proposed Passenger Char- tried to introduce with some- both domestic and international ter and Air Sewa along with thing that is passenger-friendly airlines can provide internet Rajiv Nayan Choubey, Sec- while protecting the airlines, onboard in Indian airspace. Ac- UHWDU\ 0R&$ Guruprasad thereby enabling passengers to cording to Passenger Charter, Mohapatra &KDLUPDQ $$, B S Bhullar 'LUHFWRU *HQHUDO Cancellation charges have been a '*&$ 6DW\HQGUD 0LVKUD -6 0R&$ DQG .XPDU 5DMHVK major point of friction between airlines and &KDQGUD'*%&$6 passengers. The draft passenger charter Jayant Sinha 8QGHU WKH 'UDIW 3DVVHQ- Minister of State Civil Aviation has been released in the public domain JHU &KDUWHU ZKLFK GHÀQHV WKH rights of passengers, Jayant this waiver would not be eligible GR D KRXU ORFNLQ IRU WKHLU Wi-Fi services can be provided Sinha revealed that there will be IRUDWLFNHWERRNHGKRXUV  UHVHUYDWLRQ 'XULQJ WKHVH  from the moment the plane D ¶ORFNLQ· SHULRG RI  KRXUV days) before the departure of hours, they can change their takes off with personal elec- post booking for passengers, WKHÁLJKW´&DQFHOODWLRQFKDUJHV reservation, route and name WURQLF GHYLFHV RQ ÁLJKW PRGH allowing them to cancel or KDYHEHHQDPDMRUSRLQWRIIULF- without incurring any charges. 0RELOHVHUYLFHVFDQEHDOORZHG amend the ticket without any tion between airlines and pas- But once a passenger is within only when an aircraft is over an FKDUJHV+RZHYHUKHVDLGWKDW sengers. The draft passenger the four-day window of depar- DOWLWXGHRIPHWUHV

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 5 6/4/2018 12:48:15 PM

years

VIEWPOINT TRAVTALK brings to you news and events that made headlines 25 years ago with relevance even today. From the archives, we present the June 1993 issue: Art of acquisitions FFRU+RWHOV· UHFHQW DFTXLVLWLRQ RI 6ZLVV KRWHO FKDLQ³0|YHQSLFN +RWHOV LV RQO\ RQH RI WKH s Archana Airways started operations in May 1993 with its 17 seater A L-410 Czech aircraft. The airline purchased four such aircraft. PDQ\DFTXLVLWLRQVWKDWWKH)UHQFKKRVSLWDOLW\EUDQG s AK Bhartiya, Chairman of the airline, said that L-410 class aircraft has done in the recent years. It was only a few years was seen for the first time in this region and was perfect for extreme DJRWKDWWKH\DFTXLUHG)5+,+RWHOVDQGJUDEEHGDELJ conditions in India. VKDUHRIWKHOX[XU\KRWHOVHJPHQW,QIDFW$FFRU+R- s He also said that it was not required for every airline to compete for WHOVKDVVSHQWPRUHWKDQPLOOLRQHXURV  routes with Indian Airlines (now Air India), as there are many places in the country that need flights. million) in the last four years on startups. According WRUHSRUWV$FFRULVVHWWREX\&KLOH·V$WWRQ+RWHOV ZKLOHLW·VDOUHDG\DFTXLULQJDOWHUQDWLYHDFFRPPRGD- tions provider, concierge service, and event special- LVW7KHVDPHDJHQGDLVYLVLEOHLQ0DUULRWW·VDFTXLVL- FROM THE ARCHIVES tion of Starwood a couple of years ago, which now Then Now Then Now sees the two giants working together to provide cus- tomers a taste of their hospitality in every segment. ,Q IDFW LQ ,QGLD 0DUULRWW KDV DOUHDG\ FURVVHG WKH KRWHOPDUNUHFHQWO\/RFDOEUDQGVOLNH6DURYDU +RWHOV 5HVRUWVZKLFKVROGPDMRULW\RILWVVWDNHV WR/RXYUH+RWHOVODVW\HDULVQRWWRRIDUEHKLQG(YHQ Raj Bajaj Raj Bajaj Prabhat Verma Prabhat Verma Executive Director President- Perfect Travels, Manager Tours- North India Director Australia-based StayWell hospitality was taken over Perfect Travels Adventure World (India) and Bajaj UVI Holidays PureQuest Adventures Indian Homestays & Hotels (A division of Le Passage to India) E\-DSDQ V3ULQFH+RWHOVUHFHQWO\1RWRQO\GRWKHVH EC member, IATO DFTXLVLWLRQV KHOS WR ERRVW WKH EUDQG SRUWIROLR EXW An alumnus of Delhi College of Engineering, Raj Bajaj Prabhat Verma was appointed as Manager Tours- North joined his family business, giving up his engineering India for UVI Holidays. Today, he drives the adventure & also give them the right reach in various markets. career. In 1993, he was the Executive Director, Perfect wildlife outfit for India’s leading DMC, Le Passage to India Travels and today he is the President of Perfect Travels, as the Director of PureQuest Adventures. Adventure World (India), Bajaj Indian Homestays & Hotels as well as The Luxury Trains of India. Indians on attractions ndians are aspirational travellers—especially, the Imiddle class which is making sure to travel to all Domestic air traffic 24.41% the popular destinations and ticking their sightsee- ing checklists. In fact, NTO representatives around Domestic air traffic grows by 24.41 per cent from January-April YOY, according the country vouch for Indian travellers to pack as to a latest report by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The many things in their itineraries as possible and leave passenger load factor in the month of Apr 2018 has shown increasing trend no time to relax. Shopping, beach, adventure, and compared to previous month primarily due to beginning of tourist season. everything else comes after they are done with the Passenger Growth PDMRUDWWUDFWLRQVRIWKHSODFH,WLVDIWHUDVSLUDWLRQDO 1000.00 ™3DVVHQJHUV ÁRZQ E\ Growth: YoY = +24.41% domestic airlines in January- travel that Indians progress to experiences, which 900.00 MoM= +26.05% $SULO VWRRG DW  ODNKV LVWKHPDMRUEX]]ZRUGIRUWRGD\EXWWKLVVHJPHQW 800.00 RYHU  ODNKV LQ WKH FRUUHVSRQGLQJSHULRGLQ is more for the seasoned traveller than those who 700.00 7KH SDVVHQJHU WUDIÀF PRQWK DUHYLVLWLQJDGHVWLQDWLRQIRUWKHÀUVWWLPH+HQFH 600.00 2017 RQPRQWKKDVULVHQE\³ IURP  ODNK LQ 0DUFK travel companies, while making sure to offer busy 500.00 453.03 2018 WRODNKVLQ$SULO 400.00 364.13  $FFRUGLQJ WR WKH GDWD itineraries for the growing middle class in India, are SpiceJet continues to have also venturing into specially-crafted itineraries for 300.00 the highest Passenger Load

Pax Carried (in Carried Lakhs) Pax 200.00 )DFWRU 3/) IROORZHG experiential travellers. With demand for both these 91.34 115.13 E\,QGL*RZLWK*R$LU 100.00 FDPHLQWKLUGZLWKDQG sectors growing, the current holiday season is sure 0.00 9LVWDUDZLWK3/) to record high numbers. YoY MoM Source: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)

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

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 6 6/4/2018 12:48:16 PM NTO JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 7 Morocco aims big for India The North African country is the latest to enter India to attract its growing outbound traffic. It will soon set up a direct office in New Delhi and is in talks with airlines for improving connections.

plan a strategy for the India VKRRWLQJ RI ELJ ÀOPV LW ZLOO +D]HO-DLQ We are currently in talks with some PDUNHWRQFHZHRSHQRXU0R- now offer incentives to pro- ordering the Atlantic Ocean URFFDQ1DWLRQDO7RXULVW2IÀFHLQ GXFWLRQ KRXVHV RI XS WR  BDQGWKH0HGLWHUUDQHDQ6HD Indian airlines for better connections 'HOKLµ0DOLNLDGGHG per cent in reimburse- 0RURFFR H[XGHV ¶H[RWLF· IRU between India and Morocco and may ments of expenses of the average Indian traveller, One of the segments any production that DQG WKH .LQJGRP RI 0RURFFR even look at a direct connectivity if it 0RURFFR KDV EHHQ DFWLYHO\ H[FHHGVGD\VRI will build its strategy on this tapping is the Bollywood in- VKRRWLQJ DQG 86' perceived image, apart from makes sense to the airline GXVWU\ +DYLQJ IDFLOLWDWHG WKH PLOOLRQ culture and history. This was UHYHDOHG E\ +LV ([FHOOHQF\ Mohamed Maliki, Ambassador RI WKH .LQJGRP RI 0RURFFR EDVHGLQ1HZ'HOKL

+HDOVRUHYHDOHGWKDW0R- rocco will soon be opening a WRXULVP ERDUG RIÀFH LQ 1HZ 'HOKL ´7KH QHZ RIÀFH ZDV supposed to open in January this year but got delayed due to technical reasons. We will an- QRXQFHWKHRIÀFHDQGWKH&(2 who will head it soon,” he said. +H ZDV LQ 0XPEDL WR LQDXJX- rate the ninth visa application centre which is contracted to &R[  .LQJV *OREDO 6HUYLFHV It also has visa application cen- WUHV LQ 'HOKL &KHQQDL .RONDWD Ahmedabad, Pune, Goa, Indore DQG %HQJDOXUX 0DOLNL KRSHV to open three more centres by HQG

0DOLNL DGGHG WKDW WKH two countries had recently signed a bilateral agreement IRU DYLDWLRQ ´:H DUH LQ WDONV with some Indian airlines for connections between India and 0RURFFR DQG PD\ HYHQ ORRN at a direct connectivity. We are currently connected to India WKURXJK D IHZ 0LGGOH (DVWHUQ and European airlines,” he said. Of course, the opening of a GLUHFW DLU VHUYLFH UHTXLUHV IHD- VLELOLW\DQGSURÀWDELOLW\VWXGLHV ,QWHUHVWLQJO\ 5R\DO $LU 0DURF 5$0  WKH 0RURFFDQ QDWLRQDO FDUULHUÁLHVWRQHDUE\'XEDLDQG $EX'KDEL

These developments in- dicate a growing number of ,QGLDQ WRXULVWV WR 0RURFFR ,Q WKH1RUWK$IULFDQFRXQWU\ ZHOFRPHGDERXW,QGLDQ YLVLWRUV ´:H KRSH WR GRXEOH WKLV QXPEHU E\  :H ZLOO About 0RURFFR 0RURFFRLVGLVWLQJXLVKHG by its Arabian and European cultural influences. Its seat of government resides in Rabat but its economic capital is Casablanca

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 7 6/4/2018 12:48:18 PM 8 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 STATES Rajasthan vies for the top spot Rajasthan witnessed a robust tourism season last year with a total of 475.27 lakh tourist inflow in 2017. With the recent addition of Amber Fort as one of the 10 iconic sites, the state is developing tourism-related infrastructure at various destinations and undertaking illumination projects at various heritage monuments.

Ankita Saxena Expressing gratitude to- MXPS DQG 5DMDVWKDQ ZLOO RQFH +H VDLG ´$LUFUDIW PRYH- wards the support given by again become the hub for tour- ment has grown by 35 per cent QRXWRIWKHWRWDO WKH 0LQLVWU\ RI 7RXULVP 5DMH LVPµVDLG5DMH6KHODXGHGWKH LQ-DLSXUSHUFHQWLQ-RGKSXU IODNK WRXULVWV  ODNK ZHUH informed that the state received announcement by the Govern- DQGSHUFHQWLQ8GDLSXU$VRI international, registering a over ` FURUHV IRU 3XVKNDU ment of India to add Amber Fort GDWH-DLSXUDLUSRUWRSHUDWHV growth of 6.36 per cent while `63 crore for Sambhal, over as one of the top iconic sites in ÁLJKWV GDLO\ FRPSDUHG WR  LQ WKH UHPDLQLQJ  ZHUH ` FURUH IRU WKH +HULWDJH India and hoped to develop simi- ZKLFKLQGLFDWHVWKDWWKHUH domestic tourists, register- Circuit, `93 crore for the Spir- lar destinations for tourists. is a strong demand for air travel, LQJDJURZWKRISHUFHQW itual Circuit and ` FURUH a key proxy to tourism. Flights LQ  RYHU  LQIRUPHG IRU WKH .ULVKQD &LUFXLW XQGHU Subodh Agarwal, Addi- from Tier-II and Tier-III cities are Vasundhara Raje &KLHI 0LQ- various schemes of the Govern- tional Chief Secretary—Tour- now operational with the Udan LVWHU*RYHUQPHQWRI5DMDVWKDQ PHQW RI ,QGLD ´, KRSH WKDW WKH LVP$UW &XOWXUH*RYHUQ- scheme while international car- state will continue to receive PHQWRI5DMDVWKDQSURYLGHGDQ riers have recently started di- 5DMH SRLQWHG RXW WKDW DF- the enormous support for three Vasundhara Raje Subodh Agarwal update of the hospitality spec- UHFW ÁLJKWV EHWZHHQ -DLSXU DQG Chief Minister Additional Chief Secretary— FRUGLQJ WR 9LVLRQ  WKH RWKHU SURSRVHG SURMHFWV³7L- Government of Rajasthan Tourism, Art & Culture, Government WUXPLQWKHVWDWH+HLQIRUPHG Southeast Asian countries.” state had set a target to receive JHU 3URMHFW HFRWRXULVP DQG of Rajasthan WKDWLQWKHDYHUDJHKRWHO PLOOLRQWRXULVWVLQ5DMDVWKDQ 'HVHUW &LUFXLW 7KH VXFFHVV RI Jane Kya As of date, RFFXSDQF\LQ5DMDVWKDQJUHZ Lauding the efforts of the state the campaign—Jane Kya Dikh WRSHUFHQWGXULQJ Niche Tourism tourism department, she in- JayeLVVLJQLÀFDQWIRUWKHVWDWH Dikh Jaye has Jaipur airport DVFRPSDUHGWRSHUFHQW formed that with the support as it triggered interest for the GXULQJWKH\HDUEHIRUHWKDW+H 5DMDVWKDQKDVDGGHG resulted in the operates 70 cultural tourism products extended by the travel trade, destination amongst domestic cited the increase in inven- like fairs and festivals to the target is going to be met in and international travellers and increase of flights daily tory as one of the reasons for attract more tourists  WZR \HDUV LQ DGYDQFH has resulted in the increase of this growth and pointed out VLQFH RYHU  PLOOLRQ WRXULVWV footfalls of tourists in the state. footfalls of compared to 38 that hotel inventory has Illumination of monu- ments and night tourism have already visited the state by With our progress, I believe tourists in 2015 JURZQE\RYHUSHUFHQWLQ are other initiatives WKHHQGRI WKHFXUUHQWÀJXUHVDUHJRLQJWR the past years.

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 8 6/4/2018 12:48:20 PM TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 9 6/4/2018 12:48:23 PM 10 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 QUICKBYTES Travel trade go Dutch! The King’s Day celebration in New Delhi recently brought together the Dutch and the Indian community to interact and enjoy a gala evening. The key tourism industry attendees shared the importance of such gatherings and the status of tourism between the two countries.

TT Bureau These events allow the two coun- The event is getting better year-on-year tries to come together to understand because of the strengthened ties between Indian travellers to The Netherlands is each other’s cultures and traditions and the two countries. We had very good con- on the rise, especially during the sum- thus boost relationships. We have seen nections between India and Amsterdam PHU 7KH (PEDVV\ RI 7KH .LQJGRP RI immense growth in numbers to The once we moved our hub from Brussels Netherlands in India should speed-up the Netherlands in the last two years and to Amsterdam two years ago. We are wit- visa processing to allow more number of Amsterdam remains the most popular nessing an increase in demand from India travellers to visit the country. Self-drives city. Indians usually combine two to three to not only Amsterdam but also beyond have become very popular and the tour- countries when travelling to Europe and to other destinations in Europe, the US Riaz Munshi QRZZLWKGLUHFWÁLJKWVWKH\DUHPDNLQJ Kavita Joshi and Canada. None of our staff can get on ism board should conduct more train- Managing Director Head—North India ing programmes with travel agents to N Chirag Travels Amsterdam a stop-over place before Jet Airways WR WKH ÁLJKWV GHVSLWH KDYLQJ IUHH WLFNHWV Guldeep Singh Sahni educate them about activities that can be transiting to other destinations. The since they are chock-a-blocked. Past President, Outbound canal cruises, sightseeing and miniature world are popular Tour Operators Association done in and around The Netherlands. of India attractions among Indians.

An annual event like this helps industry The relations between The Nether- An event like this really strengthens the partners to have one-to-one interaction ODQGVDQG,QGLDKDYHEHHQTXLWHVWURQJIRU ties between the two communities—the with the gathering to understand the right years now. The numbers from India to the 'XWFK DQG WKH ,QGLDQ GLDVSRUDV , WKLQN partners for business. Amsetrdam is the destination are on an upswing. With more WKHWUDIÀFWR7KH1HWKHUODQGVIURP,QGLD most popular destination amongst Indian ÁLJKWVFRPLQJLQIURP'HOKL0XPEDLDQG KDV JURZQ QHDUO\  SHU FHQW ,Q IDFW travellers, but there is a shift in the seg- Bengaluru, I feel that soon it will become a the demand to stay longer in The Nether- ment of travel. Earlier, it was assumed that destination by itself rather than be a stop- lands is on the rise. The delegation from only younger travellers visited the des- over point for travellers. There is a lot the country not only boosted the rela- tination for parties but now families and PRUHWRGRLQ7KH1HWKHUODQGVWKDQMXVW tions between India and The Netherlands Shravan Bhalla Sharad Thadani Ranjana Sharma women groups have started to travel for Proprietor one city. It is a good getaway for families Honorary Consul but also pushed tourism between the Managing Director Tulip Festival and other activities. Hi Flyer and to take a relaxed holiday. Kingdom of the Netherlands two countries. Trav n Tours International

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 10 6/4/2018 12:48:26 PM TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 11 6/4/2018 12:48:28 PM 12 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 AGENTS Exclusivity of private tours Delhi-Iceland at `13,499 Globus has launched a new style of travel—Globus WOW air has launched its operations in India with an Private Touring, allowing travel agents to convert inaugural fare of `13,499 from New Delhi to Keflavik any Globus Europe vacation to a private tour. airport, and further to Europe and North America.

TT Bureau choose a tour from Globus Eu- TT Bureau peat in India as well. Wherever rope portfolio then let us know we go, we happen to stimulate lobus Private Touring aims that you're interested in book- ow air was launched in In- the market with our prices,” re- Gto offer the expertise of the ing a Private Tour along with Wdia recently at a grand cer- YHDOHG0RJHQVHQ world’s largest escorted touring the number of travellers. An emony, where Skúli Mogensen, company yet allows operating additional premium, based on &KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2IÀFHU DQG For distribution in the In- tours exclusively for a smaller the overall number of travellers founder of WOW air, announced GLD PDUNHW 0RJHQVHQ DGGHG number of travellers without is charged for each traveller on LWV LQDXJXUDO ÁLJKWV IURP 'HOKL ´:HKDYHSURPLVHGWRRIIHUWKH having to share the coach with top of the published tour price,” WR.HÁDYLNDLUSRUWLQ,FHODQGDW others. Varesh Chopra, Region- he says. `7KHÀYHWLPHVDZHHN The flight path DO 'LUHFWRU³6RXWK $VLD DQG ÁLJKW ZLOO VWDUW RSHUDWLQJ IURP 0LGGOH (DVW *OREXV H[SODLQV The company incentiv- 'HFHPEHU from India, our ´7UDYHOOHUV FDQ HQMR\ D PRUH ises its travel partners by way Varesh Chopra Skúli Mogensen first Asia market, intimate European vacation with Regional Director—South Asia of offering commissions on ´2XUODXQFKLVLQV\QFZLWK &KLHI([HFXWLYH2IÀFHUDQGIRXQGHU all values one expects from a and Middle East, Globus sales of any Globus Private India’s aviation growth story of WOW air to North America Globus tour. They are differ- Touring vacation. and we look forward to being ent from Indian private tours Chopra further explains part of it with our very afford- air can also break-up their long is superior to any as the travellers will have their that private tour offers greater able fares to North America and haul transatlantic trip and relish other market from own dedicated international ÁH[LELOLW\ LQ SDFH DQG H[SHUL- Greater Flexibility Europe on board brand new the scenic beauty of Iceland tour director, their own pri- ence. The company is targeting $LUEXV $QHRV :2: DLU RQWKHLUZD\´,QGLDLVRXUÀUVW this region vate transportation, driver and families and friends who would The company is targeting DOVR SODQV WR DGG PRUH ÁLJKWV market in Asia and we see a professional local guides.” like to travel exclusively and not families and friends who to India in the future,” said great opportunity here. The cheapest fare on our website. Every private tour includes ZLWK D ODUJHU JURXS +H HODER- would like to travel exclu- 0RJHQVHQ7KHIDUHZRXOGYDU\ ÁLJKW SDWK IURP ,QGLD WR 1RUWK Locally, we are working with all visits and VIP access to rates that travel agents can sively. Travel agents can for different classes, i.e., WOW America is superior to any other WKH %,5' JURXS IRU GLVWULEX- popular attractions as out- convert any Globus European convert any Globus basic, WOW plus, WOW comfy market from this region. Our WLRQ +RZHYHU, ZRXOG H[SHFW European vacation to a lined in the original published vacation to a private touring private touring experience  :2: SUHPLXP 0RJHQVHQ ORDG IDFWRUV DUH RYHU  SHU primary sales channel would Globus itinerary. H[SHULHQFH´2QHKDVWRVLPSO\ DGGHGWKDWWKRVHZKRÁ\:2: cent globally and we hope to re- still be online.”

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 12 6/4/2018 12:48:31 PM TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 13 6/4/2018 12:48:32 PM 14 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 AGENTS Indian food is Sun Siyam’s priority In order to cater to Indian guests in every way, Sun Siyam can not only offer vegetarian and Jain meals at all its properties but also has tailored packages for families that include free stay for 2 children under 15.

TT Bureau rants in all our properties,” 0DQLNDGGV ood is a number one pri- Fority for Indians travelling New properties anywhere and the Sun Siyam The group is also busy Resorts understands this ba- launching new properties this VLFQHHGKHQFHWKHDGGLWLRQRI \HDU,WV6XQ$TXD,UX9HOLZLOO Indian cuisine to its properties. RSHQ LQ 2FWREHU  D QHZ Zulaikha Manik, Executive concept for its high-end clients. 'LUHFWRU 6XQ 6L\DP 5HVRUWV The villas are decorated in a mix VD\V´)RRGWRSVRXUOLVWDSDUW of tropical island style with a di- from plenty of other things one verse modern infusion and state- can do at the resorts. The Sun RIWKHDUWPRGHUQIDFLOLWLHV´7KH 6L\DP,UX)XVKL0DOGLYHVRXU Zulaikha Manik GLVWLQFW SURSHUW\ KDV ÀYH UHV- Executive Director ÀYHVWDUOX[XU\SURSHUW\RIIHUV Sun Siyam Resorts taurants with bars that present WKH ODUJHVW VHOHFWLRQ LQ ) % a world of culinary choice. We including an Indian restaurant, garnered positive response not also offer an Indian food menu Taste of India. Indian menu is MXVWIURPLWV,QGLDQJXHVWVEXW IRUWKRVHZKRZDQWWRHQMR\,Q- champagne breakfast, dine include water villas with pools, winning spas at our properties. available at the a la carte res- from guests all over the world. GLDQGLVKHVµ0DQLNUHYHDOV around, daily shisha per room, additional service facilities, over We offer treatments ranging taurants at all our properties. ´:HNQRZWKDWIRRGLVDQLP- selection of water sports water spa and a world-class from ayurveda to Balinese to We see the demand and tailor portant element for Indians. /X[XU\ DVLGH 6XQ $TXD and excursions. 0L&(FHQWUH Thai, all customised to suit the our services to cater to the We make sure that we have the Iru Veli will introduce private personal needs and choices changing needs.” ability to tailor special dietary pools in all the rooms, which The group will also make 0DQLN DGGV ´0DOGLYHV of our guests. Our guests can UHTXLUHPHQWV OLNH -DLQ DQG ZLOO WRWDO  +RZHYHU WKH additions to its existing property LV RQO\ D VKRUW ÁLJKW DZD\ HQMR\DVSDFUHGLWRI86' The idea was to main- vegetarian food for our Indian main highlight will be the Sun ²WKH2OKXYHOL%HDFK 6SD0DO- from India and is not merely a per person, per day for a ho- tain authenticity for its Indian JXHVWV 0RUHRYHU ZH KDYH $TXD 6LJQDWXUH PHDO SODQ dives – which will get some new beach destination but a place listic treatment of their choice, guests. The presence of Indian also introduced Indian-themed the most comprehensive room categories and facilities in for total relaxation. Guests can available under our Extreme All chefs in all its properties has buffet once a week at restau- premium all inclusive – from WKHODVWTXDUWHURI7KLVZLOO be pampered at the award- Inclusive plan.”

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 14 6/4/2018 12:48:36 PM TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 15 6/4/2018 12:48:41 PM 16 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TECHNOLOGY Amadeus brings ACUS to India The launch of Amadeus Airport Common Use Service (ACUS) will mean airports in India can offer a futuristic, more efficient and convenient check-in service as the number of international and domestic travellers increases.

TT Bureau create a vision for the future of senger numbers over the past world are looking at how new Common Use in the country. GHFDGHDVLWVFLWL]HQVWDNHDG- technologies and solutions can madeus introduced the vantage of better connectivity improve passenger experience A‘Airport Common Use Sarah Samuel +HDG and cheaper fares. With this and operations throughout the Service’ (ACUS) to key stake- RI $LUSRUW ,7³$VLD 3DFLÀF hike in travellers comes more airport. Behind the scenes and holders in the Indian avia- $PDGHXV VD\V ´7KH UDSLG congested airports. The archi- in front of the passenger, we are WLRQ LQGXVWU\ DW ,QGLD·V ÀUVW growth of passengers travel- tecture of Amadeus ACUS al- pleased to introduce ACUS to Common Use Roundtable, ling in India means airports ORZV¶À[HG·FKHFNLQFRXQWHUV India. It is indeed a milestone an event hosted by Amadeus are under a lot pressure. Now to be rapidly redeployed any- moment for us as we demon- and Bird Group. Imagine being more than ever, they need to where within the terminal, and strate our commitment to offer FKHFNHGLQ IRU \RXU ÁLJKW DW think differently to provide the to ‘off airport’ locations, to en- best-in-class solutions to our the hotel or at your congress service expected by consum- able the airport to access ad- business partners across the centre before you leave for the ers. The airport industry has Sarah Samuel Rajesh Suri ditional passenger capacity on Indian subcontinent.” +HDGRI$LUSRUW,7³$VLD3DFLÀF Executive Vice President, Business DLUSRUW 7KHVH DUH MXVW VRPH advanced tremendously from Amadeus Development, Bird Group demand to meet short notice of the options that Amadeus’ the days of dedicated airline RUVHDVRQDOÁXFWXDWLRQV Not only does ACUS pro- ACUS offers to improve the check-in desks towards a Globally, we ACUS YLGH PRUH ÁH[LEOLW\ LQ RSHUD- way airports and airlines PXFKPRUHÁH[LEOHDQGVKDUHG are now seeing Fast and easy to implement, tions and reduced passenger serve their passengers. environment. Globally, we are demonstrates with ACUS and an internet con- processing costs for airlines, now seeing airports ready to airports ready to nection, passenger processing it also delivers substantial To mark the launch of embrace change in order to our commitment services can be easily extended energy savings reducing the ACUS in India, Amadeus and maximise commercial and op- embrace change to offer best-in- to include off-airport locations RYHUDOO &2 HPLVVLRQV RI DLU- Bird Group recently held India’s erational performance.” to maximise such as hotels, exhibitions, con- ports. Already implemented ÀUVW&RPPRQ8VH5RXQGWDEOH class solutions vention centres, train stations LQRYHUGHVWLQDWLRQVDFURVV LQ 'HOKL 7KH HYHQW EURXJKW Samuel further men- commercial and to partners in and cruise liners. ACUS can be the globe, ACUS is a highly together India’s senior airline WLRQHG ´$LUOLQHV DUH DOUHDG\ operational used on any device including competitive solution. and airport industry leaders to running many critical applica- the Indian laptops and relocatable devices. share insights, learnings and tions that are centrally hosted performance The adoption of ACUS will allow subcontinent airports to eliminate costly on- .H\IHDWXUHV site systems, lowering their op- and accesible by their agents erational expenses and minimis- of ACUS YLD WKH LQWHUQHW ZH DUH QRZ ing their environmental impact. Application virtualisation seeing the airport industry fol- technology low this trend with Amadeus Airlines will also be able 'HOLYHUHGYLD6DD6 ACUS. Our platform has ena- to reduce costs owing to model, centrally hosted bled the airport ecosystem to centralised connectivity to air- in a state-of-the-art data use its resources more intel- SRUWVDQGVLPSOLÀHGSDVVHQJHU centre ligently, ultimately improving processing with offering new- Based on secure network the passenger experience and generation, multiple choice, FRQQHFWLYLW\DQG*FRP- munications taking the next step towards enhanced check-in serv- becoming the airport of the fu- ices to its passengers. This Connection to all airline 'HSDUWXUH&RQWURO6\VWHP ture. We look forward to work- will further enhance passenger DLUSRUWDSSOLFDWLRQV ing with airports in India and experience. Complete end-to-end establishing a place for ACUS solution delivery in the market place.” Rajesh Suri, Executive Compatible with industry 9LFH 3UHVLGHQW %XVLQHVV 'H- standards India has experienced a velopment, Bird Group shared, Energy saving six-fold increase in air pas- ´$LUSRUWVDQGDLUOLQHVDURXQGWKH In-flight Wi-Fi could be game changer in business travel

)&07UDYHO6ROXWLRQVDQG.30* VUHFHQWZKLWHSDSHUWLWOHG¶7KH'LJL6PDUW,QGLDQ%XVLQHVV7UDYHO- OHU·IRUHFDVWVWKDW,QGLDQWUDYHOOHUVKDYHKLJKHULQFOLQDWLRQWRZDUGVLQÁLJKW:L)LDVFRPSDUHGWR travellers from other countries, according to a survey by Inmarsat. With current nil penetration and KLJKGHPDQGDPRQJVW,QGLDQWUDYHOOHUVLQÁLJKW:L)LFDQEHDSRWHQWLDOJDPHFKDQJHULQHQKDQFLQJ EXVLQHVVWUDYHOOHUH[SHULHQFHFRQVLGHULQJWKDWÁLHUVDUHSRWHQWLDOO\ZLOOLQJWRVKLIWWUDYHOH[SHULHQFHV for onboard Wi-Fi. For business travellers, the need for seamless connectivity makes them natural XVHUVRIWKHVHVHUYLFHV:KLOHWKHXVHRILQÁLJKW:L)LVKRXOGEHHQFRXUDJHGLWLVQHFHVVDU\WR FRQVLGHU YDULRXV IDFWRUV LQFOXGLQJ DLUFUDIW XSJUDGH UHTXLUHPHQWV FRQQHFWLYLW\ VSHHG DQG TXDOLW\ cybersecurity concerns, etc.

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 16 6/4/2018 12:48:42 PM AGENTS JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 17 Innovative & innstant solutions Innstant Travel aims to provide the best travel booking experience to its clients. A leading global provider of wholesale travel products and services, the company offers innovative solutions to increase sales and profits.

TT Bureau tools needed to stay ahead in mechanisms we use. Firstly, ing to the new price and save today's fast-paced and com- we have a lot of direct connect costs”, Ismail elaborates. ith a client base of over SHWLWLYH WUDYHO LQGXVWU\ ´2XU agreements, which means we W WUDYHO DJHQFLHV wholesale division, which are connecting directly with In addition, the company and tour operators worldwide, is Innstant Travel, we have the hotel chains assuring offers other features especial- Innstant Travel services travel  KRWHOV ZRUOGZLGH TXDOLW\ DQG UHDOWLPH LQYHQ- ly designed for the travel pro- SURIHVVLRQDOV LQ RYHU  and in addition to that we are tory. The other factor setting fessional, making life easier VRXUFH PDUNHWV ´:H KDYH QRZ DGGLQJ  DSDUW- up apart is our clever applica- and simultaneously providing three main business units ments worldwide. Our port- tion of technology. We have great service in an instant! - wholesale, travel technol- ogy, and a hotel property and Innstant Travel offers travel profession- system management divi- Innstants USPs sion. In terms of opportunity als a state-of-the-art booking engine and in the Indian market, we see The company has a lot tools needed to stay ahead in today's of direct connect agree- that all three of them have fast-paced and competitive travel industry ments, which means we a good proposition,” says are connecting directly Darryl Ismail 'LUHFWRU with the hotel chains Innstant Group. folio is comprehensive and created new products such DVVXULQJTXDOLW\DQGUHDO we even offer same day avail- DV WKH SULFH GURS DOHUW  +R- time inventory :LWKDSHUFHQWUHY- ability. We contract different tels use dynamic yield tools With the clever ap- enue increase from India in a and getting more agents to LVFRQÀGHQWWKDW,QGLDZLOOEH room types, from standard these days and hotel prices plication of technology, year, Innstant Travel is gaining work with us,” says Gagan amongst its top three markets rooms to penthouse suites,” can change a few times. Our the company has created SRSXODULW\´:HKDYHRYHU Kakkar&RXQWU\+HDG³,QGLD with the fullness of time. adds Ismail. system is monitoring these new products such as Indian agents already using Innstant Travel. Committed to drops and if the price drops, the price drop alert. The the system and this list is the Indian market and seeing Innstant Travel offers Staying ahead of the the system sends an alert system sends an alert growing. We are working on it as a competitive market to travel professionals a state- JDPHDQGEHLQJXQLTXH´RXU providing an opportunity for whenever the price drops introducing more solutions do business, Innstant group of-the-art booking engine and differentiator is the pricing the agent to update the book-

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 17 6/4/2018 12:48:44 PM 18 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 STATES J&K comeback on tourism map Sarmad Hafeez (IAS), Secretary, Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir, hopes that tourism is going to revive in the state post the TAAI convention, coupled with the increased promotions and investments in tourism infrastructure, along with organisation of roadshows in major Indian cities.

hotel chains have been intro- frastructure in adventure tour- state offers some of the best as we will able to move in the TT Bureau GXFHGLQ.DVKPLUOLNH7DM/DOLW ism and eco-tourism under the golf courses for golf lovers. right direction.” TAAI convention 6KHUDWRQ 0HULGLHQ ,7& .K\- +LPDOD\DQFLUFXLW:HKDYHDQ he recently-concluded TAAI EHUHWFµDGGHG+DIHH] opportunity for pilgrim tourism Busting the myth +DIHH] VDLG WKDW WKH LQ- TConvention in Srinagar in- and hence we are developing 'HVSLWH VR PDQ\ HIIRUWV WHUHVW LQ .DVKPLU LV LQFUHDV- VWLOOHGKRSHLQ- .WRUHYLYHLWV Way forward some pilgrim sites. Our herit- there are many countries, in- LQJ ´7KH QXPEHU RI DUULYDOV WRXULVP $JUHHG 6DUPDG +D- The Secretary shared DJHGDWHVEDFNWR\HDUV cluding the United States of is higher than last year. The IHH]VD\LQJ´,WZDVDIWHUPRUH WKDWXQGHUWKH3ULPH0LQLVWHU and we have to preserve and America, which have taken out bookings for travel agents are WKDQ  \HDUV WKDW 7$$, FDPH 'HYHORSPHQW )XQG -DPPX work towards that. Apart from travel advisories against visit- already looking good. We are EDFNWR.DVKPLUZLWKRQHRIWKH .DVKPLUUHFHLYHGDVSHFLDO tourism, we are focusing on LQJ.DVKPLU+DIHH]VDLG´:H expecting a few more con- biggest gatherings. When travel package of ` FURUH HV- horticulture like cultivation of are working with the embas- ventions as well. We are in agents come and visit the state, sies of such countries and as talks to do a FICCI all women they can see how stunning and Every year we will get about `400 crores things improve I am sure some convention here, with around beautiful it is. This convention Sarmad Hafeez of these countries would lift  ZRPHQ , EHOLHYH WKDW (IAS), Secretary has given them a chance to Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir for various initiatives. We are building these advisories. In fact, some by creating good activity and experience the hospitality of conference centres for MiCE, creating of them have already shown EX]] KHUH ZH ZLOO EH DEOH WR .DVKPLUÀUVWKDQGµ are also running an advertise- interest in the same, because improve the numbers as well,” ment campaign and simulta- roadside facilities & infrastructure in adven- .DVKPLU LV D VDIH SODFH WR he added. New initiatives neously trying to improve our ture tourism under the Himalayan circuit travel. In fact, National Crime +DIHH] LQVLVWHG WKDW WKH\ infrastructure. Even during our Bureau’s records clearly show are taking multiple initiatives low time when fewer people SHFLDOO\ IRU WRXULVP ´(YHU\ almonds, apples, cherries and that there has been no attack Rising .DVKPLU to promote the tourism offer- ZHUH YLVLWLQJ .DVKPLU ZH LQ- year we will be getting about strawberries. We also have our and crime against a tourist in The state is also focus- LQJVRI- .´:HKDYHDOUHDG\ WURVSHFWHG DQG WULHG WR ÀJXUH ` FURUHV IRU VHYHUDO LQL- UHQRZQHG .DVKPLUL KDQGLFUDIW the last two years. We have ing on horticulture like KHOGDIHZURDGVKRZVLQPDMRU out ways to improve the sce- tiatives we are undertaking. including paper mache, walnut even received positive feed- cultivation of almonds, cities and are inviting people nario in the state. Today, the We are building conference wood furniture, copper ware, back from women travellers. apples, cherries and from different states to come infrastructure has improved FHQWUHV IRU 0L&( WRXULVP pashmina shawl, etc,” he re- +HQFH ZH DUH KRSHIXO WKDW strawberries and experience the state. We considerably as many national creating roadside facilities, in- YHDOHG+HDOVRVKDUHGWKDWWKH these advisories will be lifted

The following regular column provides you a brief update on world events and World Talk how they impact the tourism sector.

Canada Charlevoix, Canada – Local leaders are H[SHFWLQJWKHP price-tag of hosting Sydney, Australia WKH*VXPPLWZLOO help them showcase $\HDUROGER\ the cultural, tour- decided to take matters ism and economic into his own hands when informed by his diversity of Canada’s parents that they won’t Quebec region. be going on holiday this \HDU'UHZXVHGKLV parents credit cards to PDNHÁLJKWDQGKRWHO bookings to Bali online (researching that airlines Hawaii, USA DOORZ\HDUROGVWRÁ\ unaccompanied). Could The eruption of this be the start of a .LODXHD9ROFDQRKDV new tourism trend? inspired a new breed Colombia of adventure tourism. As the country holds Lava tourists are LWVÀUVWHOHFWLRQDIWHU ÁRFNLQJWRWKHYROFDQR the historic peace deal to catch glimpses of between the govern- the orange rivers. ment and the FARC, could this be a start of increased tourism to South America? Experts are hoping the recent peace treaty will help attract tourists.

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 18 6/4/2018 12:48:47 PM TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 19 6/4/2018 12:48:50 PM 20 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 FAMILYALBUM Amadeus to ease airport woes To mark the launch of 'Airport Common Use Service' (ACUS) in India, Amadeus and Bird Group recently held India’s first Common Use Roundtable in Delhi. The event brought together India’s senior airline and airport industry leaders to share insights, learnings and create a vision for the future of Common Use in the country.

Contd. on page 22

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 20 6/4/2018 12:49:01 PM TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 21 6/4/2018 12:49:05 PM 22 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 FAMILYALBUM Smooth passenger movement

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 22 6/4/2018 12:49:17 PM NTO Tiered cities at GTM At the recently-held Germany Travel Mart (GTM) 2018 in Dresden, a delegation of Indian agents and media explored Destination Germany and met suppliers from around the country.

Nisha Verma tion from the trade, especially we have seen a shift in travel- from Tier-II and Tier-III cities in OHUV· SHUFHSWLRQ RI 'HVWLQD- KH  HGLWLRQ RI *70 India,” he said. tion Germany. While our trade Twitnessed a big delegation and business statistics con- from India, held at the scenic Theophilus further added tinue to grow steadily, we have KLVWRULFDO FLW\ RI 'UHVGHQ LQ that the exhibition is perfect witnessed a surge in Germany. Romit Theophilus, for operators looking at broad- number of travellers visiting 'LUHFWRU *HUPDQ 1DWLRQDO HQLQJ WKHLU KRUL]RQV DQG H[- the country for leisure. With 7RXULVW 2IÀFH *172  ,QGLD ploring beyond the traditional our focus on theme-based VDLG ´6LQFH *70 LV KHOG LQ LWLQHUDULHV ´7KH HYHQW DOORZV marketing, our core theme for a different city every year, it tour operators to meet new   ¶&XOLQDU\ *HUPDQ\· gives participants an oppor- suppliers and helps them get lays stress on the diverse tunity to experience a diverse updated on the latest offerings and rich culinary herit- region and its culture. The and attractions. Further, with age of the country as well FKDUPLQJFLW\RI'UHVGHQIDOOV WKH RSHUDWRUV PHHWLQJ '0&V as the niche and upcoming in the eastern state of Saxony.” 1H[W \HDU *70 ZLOO EH KHOG Germany Travel Mart allows tour IURP0D\LQ:LHVEDGHQ operators to meet new suppliers and helps +HFODLPHGWKDWWKHLQWHU- est of Indian travel agents is them get updated on the latest offerings HYHUJURZLQJ IRU *70 ´7KH and attractions. With the operators meet- platform provides operators with an opportunity to have ing DMCs and other suppliers face-to- one-on-one interactions, with face, this platform helps operators build suppliers they would work closely with, in the coming on their existing trade relations years. This year too, we saw an enthu- siastic participa- and other suppliers face-to- PRGHUQWUHQGVRQWKHVXEMHFWµ face, this platform helps op- he informed. erators build on their existing trade relations translating into Another focus area for better business.” Theophilus would be to tap the ZHGGLQJ PDUNHW LQ ,QGLD ´*HU- Later, GNTO India works PDQ\ KDV D SOHWKRUD RI XQLTXH towards materialising these DQGSLFWXUHVTXHORFDOHVWKDWDUH meetings into business with ideal for a destination wedding. DJHQWV ´$W *172 ,QGLD Add to this, excellent value for SRVW*70ZHDFWDV money and the destination D OLDLVRQ RIÀFH IRU stands out as a top con- the suppliers and tender for this segment. In the buyers to stay coming years, we hope to work connected, and closely with trade partners look- build on mutually ing at promoting this segment EHQHÀFLDO EXVL- for their clients,” he shared. ness opportuni- ties,” claimed 7KHRSKLOXVUHYHDOHG´8Q- Theophilus. WLO )HEUXDU\  *HUPDQ\ ZLWQHVVHG  YLVLWRU This year, RYHUQLJKWVIURP,QGLDDSHU the Indian contin- cent increase over the same gent consisted of period last year. Conservatively  PHPEHUV IURP speaking, we hope to achieve the travel trade, and DSHUFHQWJURZWKLQYLVLWRU Theophilus said that RYHUQLJKWVLQµ WKH VL]H RI ,QGLDQ GHO- egates along with the media has remained Focus Areas constant over the Apart from emphasising \HDUV´7KLVLQGLFDWHV on the diverse and rich the unwavering inter- culinary heritage of the est and support of the country, another focus area for GNTO India would Indian trade in destination be to tap the wedding Germany,” he added. market in the country

GNTO India will now Germany has a plethora RIXQLTXHDQGSLFWXUHVTXH be focusing on promot- locales that are ideal for a ing the latest global theme in destination wedding WKH FRXQWU\ ´2YHU WKH \HDUV

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 23 6/4/2018 12:49:19 PM 24 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 FAMILYALBUM Southern stalwarts bask in the The fifth edition of India Travel Awards–South was recently held at Clarks Exotica Convention Resort and Spa, Bengaluru amidst the presence of stalwarts of the travel and tourism industry. Recognising the efforts of regional industry players in tourism and hospitality, the awardees are selected based on a non-biased system of voting.

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 24 6/4/2018 12:49:31 PM FAMILYALBUM JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 25 sun at India Travel Awards

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 25 6/4/2018 12:49:42 PM ASSOCIATIONTALK ADTOI for Northeast chapters JUNE 2018 The Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India is keen on IATA $*0 Sydney, Australia 3-5 Northeast chapters. PP Khanna, President, speaks about border International Travel Roadshow (ITR) Delhi International Travel Roadshow (ITR) Kolkatatourism, women empowerment and skill management programme. International Travel Roadshow (ITR) Pune International Travel Roadshow (ITR) Hyderabad TT Bureau be done. In the south, we have After assuming charge International Travel Roadshow (ITR) Kochi chapters in Andhra Pradesh and Qas President, do you ,QWHUQDWLRQDOChandigarh LQJ PRUH WUDYHO DJHQWV WR MRLQ 0\ PDLQ DJHQGD ZDV WR Skål Asian Region Congress Macau  chapters? the association. have a committee of Research 7&(%0L&(5RDGVKRZ Indore This is our ninth chapter DQG 'HYHORSPHQW :H KDYH $PD]LQJ7KDLODQG:HGGLQJ5RDGVKRZ Indoreand our motive is to promote What is ADTOI’s next a Chairman for this wing and $PD]LQJ7KDLODQG:HGGLQJ5RDGVKRZ Chennai +DU\DQD DQG &KDQGLJDUK LQ Qagenda? have come up with the idea terms of farm tourism, village We have our new website of border tourism. Our chair- PATA India Chapter Update Delhi 2XWORRN0HHWLQJ tourism, highway tourism, golf which is dynamic, and we have man has already made four tourism, ecotourism and ad- asked our members to mention WRÀYHYLVLWVWR.DUJLOWRZRUN 7&(%0L&(5RDGVKRZ Chennai venture tourism. We wanted to their professional skills so that on it. Women empowerment +5$:,&RQYHQWLRQ Sri Lanka  PP Khanna convey the message to tourism their expertise can be understood President is another area where we are 7HODQJDQD7RXULVP&RQFODYH Hyderabad  PLQLVWULHVRI3XQMDEDQG+DU\D- for tasks to be assigned accord- ADTOI focusing. We have appointed India International Travel Exhibition (IITE) Raipur -XO na that there is a potential, which ingly. For example, if a person one female personnel to work is not being explored. For exam- has sound knowledge about various state tourism bodies on how women can work in the ple, the partition museum which .HUDODDQGLIVRPHERG\HOVHLV to start a training programme tourism industry. We have also was opened last year is not pro- good with Andhra Pradesh, they so that members get to know held roadshows and women- moted enough. We have to work can be deployed appropriately. where a product can be sold. fam trips. JULY 2018 with agents in these states and The website is also connected We also plan to work with in- +RWHO2SHUDWLRQV6XPPLW,QGLD Delhiunion territories. ZLWK WKH 0LQLVWU\ RI 7RXULVP stitutions who can train our When is the next Government of India and the members to interact with tour- ADTOI elections 7&(%0L&(5RDGVKRZ Bengaluru 3 Q Are any new chapters state tourism departments. ists. With a lot of competition in scheduled? 7&(%0L&(5RDGVKRZ Mumbai 5 Qin the offing? the industry, we have to make We have our current term GPS Chandigarh  We are thinking of open- How is ADTOI working sure that tourists are given ac- till August this year. The new towards skill manage- TTF Kolkataing chapters in northeast states Q curate information, and don’t election date has not been and are working with the local ment programme? go to others for services with ÀQDOLVHG ,W PD\ WDNH SODFH LQ Travel Wedding Show Jaipuragents there to study how it can We are in touch with cheap prices. June or mid-June. .LZL/LQN,QGLD Mumbai Tourism New Zealand Frontline Training Bengaluru GPS Ahmedabad  DDP Game Changer Ajeet Bajaj Tourism New Zealand Frontline Training Delhi TTF Hyderabad  along with daughter scales Mt Everest Singapore Tourism Roadshow Trichy Singapore Tourism Roadshow Ludhiana ACTE Global Summit Singapore  Singapore Tourism Roadshow Lucknow Singapore Tourism Roadshow Coimbatore GPS Lucknow  Singapore Tourism Roadshow Kochi Singapore Tourism Roadshow Kolkata Singapore Tourism Roadshow Surat Focus Philippines Goa  Singapore Tourism Roadshow Visakhapatnam ,,70 Bengaluru  UNICEF Adventure Expo Noida  AUGUST 2018 GPS Kolkata  ,,70 Chennai 3-5 Ajeet BajajIURP6NnO,QWHUQDWLRQDO'HOKLUHFHQW- India International Travel Exhibition (IITE) Indore 3-5 O\VXPPLWWHG0W(YHUHVWZLWKKLVGDXJKWHUDQG XQIXUOHGWKH,QGLDQÁDJRQLWVSHDN7KH\FUH- 7RXULVP)LML5RDGVKRZ Mumbai DWHG KLVWRU\ E\ EHLQJ WKH ÀUVW IDWKHUGDXJKWHU 7RXULVP)LML5RDGVKRZ Kolkata duo to have climbed the highest peak together. "Unfurling the Indian tricolour on the summit 7RXULVP)LML5RDGVKRZ Delhi 9 RI0W(YHUHVWZLWKP\GDXJKWHU'L\DZDVRQH 7RXULVP)LML5RDGVKRZ Chandigarh of the proudest and most emotional moments RI P\ OLIH VDLG %DMDM ZKLOH VSHDNLQJ RI KLV GPS Kochi  IHDW6NnO'HOKLDQGDOOWKHPHPEHUVMRLQHGWR- OTOAI Convention Cape Town  gether to send congratulation messages to this dynamic duo for their fantastic achievement. For more information, contact us at: [email protected]

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 26 6/4/2018 12:49:45 PM TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 27 6/4/2018 12:49:47 PM 28 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 OPPORTUNITY

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 28 6/4/2018 12:49:49 PM CLIPBOARD JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 29

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 29 6/4/2018 12:49:51 PM 30 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 MOVEMENTS The St Regis, Mumbai Seoul Tourism Organisation Marriott International Mumbai Seoul Bengaluru 7KH 6W 5HJLV 0XPEDL KDV DQQRXQFHG WKH DSSRLQWPHQW RI Jae-sung Rhee IRUPHU ([HFXWLYH 9LFH 3UHVLGHQW RI .RUHD 7RXULVP 0DUULRWW,QWHUQDWLRQDOKDVUHFHQWO\DSSRLQWHGPranay VerdiaDV0XOWL Saurabh DubeDV'LUHFWRURI6DOHVDQG0DUNHWLQJ'XEHEULQJVRYHU 2UJDQLVDWLRQKDVEHHQDSSRLQWHGWREHFRPHWKHÀUVW3UHVLGHQWDQG 3URSHUW\*HQHUDO0DQDJHUIRU&RXUW\DUGE\0DUULRWW%HQJDOXUX2XWHU \HDUVRIULFKH[SHULHQFHLQWKHUHDOPRI%XVLQHVV &(2RI6HRXO7RXULVP2UJDQLVDWLRQ+HZRUNHGDWWKH 5LQJ5RDG)DLUÀHOGE\0DUULRWW%HQJDOXUX2XWHU 'HYHORSPHQW DQG 6DOHV DQG 0DUNHWLQJ ZLWKLQ .RUHD7RXULVP2UJDQLVDWLRQIRU\HDUVIURP 5LQJ5RDGDQG)DLUÀHOGE\0DUULRWW%HQJDOXUX WKH OX[XU\ VHJPHQW DQG KRVSLWDOLW\ LQGXVWU\ +H WRDQGKHOGWKHSRVLWLRQRIGLUHFWRULQHYHU\ 5DMDMLQDJDU:LWKRYHU\HDUVRIH[SHULHQFH will lead the dynamic sales team of the hotel, department within the organisation. With his in hospitality, Verdia has been associated with creating and overseeing revenue plans and hands-on experience and expertise, leadership YDULRXV SURSHUWLHV RI 0DUULRWW ,QWHUQDWLRQDO VXUSDVVLQJ WDUJHWV 'XEH KDV EHHQ DVVRFLDWHG abilities and global sensibility, Rhee is regarded across India. Prior to this, he has worked at with leading international and Indian hotel chains DV DQ H[SHUW LQ WKH ÀHOG RI WRXULVP 3UHVLGHQW )RXU 6HDVRQ +RWHO 0XPEDL DQG 3DUN +\DWW where he has successfully helmed the sales 5KHHMRLQHGWKH6HRXO7RXULVP2UJDQLVDWLRQDV Goa Resort and Spa in different roles. and business development teams, LWRIÀFLDOO\UHODXQFKHGXQGHUDGLIIHUHQW +H MRLQHG WKH 0DUULRWW IDPLO\ leading them to achieve both legal status, after it was restructured LQ  DW 5HQDLVVDQFH business growth and market from a government-invested 0XPEDL +RWHO  &RQYHQWLRQ dominance within the respective corporation into a government- &HQWUHDQG0DUULRWW([HFXWLYH competitive markets. funded foundation. Apartments.

The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi Courtyard by Marriott Raipur Indore Marriott Hotel NCR Raipur Indore Rahul PuriKDVEHHQDSSRLQWHGDVWKH*HQHUDO0DQDJHUDW7KH:HVWLQ Rajneesh KumarKDVEHHQGHVLJQDWHGDVWKH*HQHUDO0DQDJHUDW ,QGRUH 0DUULRWW +RWHO KDV DSSRLQWHG Devesh Rawat as its new *XUJDRQ1HZ'HOKL:LWK\HDUVRILQWHUQDWLRQDOH[SHUWLVH3XULZLOO &RXUW\DUGE\0DUULRWW5DLSXU+HEULQJVWRWKHWDEOHKLVYDVWUHSHUWRLUH *HQHUDO 0DQDJHU +LV UROH LQFOXGHV RYHUVHHLQJ DOO GHSDUWPHQWV now focus on the overall operations at the property, of running and managing successful hotels and managing the commercial and operational drive hotel performance, guest satisfaction, KDV DQ H[WHQVLYH H[SHULHQFH RI DOPRVW  performance of the hotel, ensure full diversify Food and Beverage experiences, focus years in the hospitality industry. Spearheading compliance to hotel operating controls, on strong brand positioning of the hotel while RQH RI WKH ÀQHVW ÀYHVWDU GHOX[H KRWHOV LQ SOPs, policies, procedures and service FUHDWLQJDSRVLWLYHZRUNIRUFHHQYLURQPHQW+H &KKDWWLVJDUK .XPDU LV UHVSRQVLEOH IRU WKH VWDQGDUGV DQG VDIHJXDUGLQJ WKH TXDOLW\ RI MRLQHG0DUULRWW,QWHUQDWLRQDOLQDW6KHUDWRQ associates’ elicit performance, culminating RSHUDWLRQV5DZDWEULQJVLQ\HDUVRIULFK +RQJNRQJ+RWHODQG7RZHUDQGWKHQWUDQVLWLRQHG ÀQH JXHVW H[SHULHQFH DQG DFKLHYLQJ YLVLRQ experience of working with luxury hotels and LQWR WKH UROH RI $UHD 'LUHFWRU IRU 5HYHQXH RI WKH KRWHO +H LV FRPPLWWHG WR SURYLGH resorts. Throughout his career, he 6WUDWHJ\IRU,QGLD$XVWUDOLDDQG0DOD\VLD strategic leadership expertise that ensures proved to be one of the strongest LQ  ZKLFK FXOPLQDWHG LQWR KLV HIIHFWLYHDQGHIÀFLHQWRYHUDOOPDQDJHPHQW SLOODUV RI WKH ) % LQGXVWU\ DV most recent assignment as Senior DWWKHKRWHO3ULRUWRWKLV.XPDUZDV he simultaneously won many $UHD 'LUHFWRU RI 5HYHQXH 6WUDWHJ\³ 'LUHFWRU RI 2SHUDWLRQV DW -DLSXU awards and accolades year- South Asia. 0DUULRWW+RWHO on-year.

Azaya Beach Resort Goa Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort The Small Maldives Island Co Goa Goa Maldives $]D\D%HDFK5HVRUW*RDKDVQDPHGRajesh KR Gupta as the General Vishal Khosla *HQHUDO 0DQDJHU RI 1RYRWHO *RD 'RQD 6\OYLD Tanushree Joshi KDV EHHQ DSSRLQWHG DV 6DOHV 0DQDJHU RI 7KH 0DQDJHU ,Q KLV QHZ UROH KH ZLOO EH UHVSRQVLEOH IRU RIIHULQJ JXHVWV Resort, brings over two decades of hospitality and management 6PDOO 0DOGLYHV ,VODQG &R IRU WKH ,QGLD PDUNHW hospitality and personalised services. An industry H[SHULHQFHWRKLVQHZUROH.KRVODLVUHVSRQVLEOHH[SHULHQFHWRKLVQHZU She comes with a wealth of experience and veteran with over two decades in the hospitality forfor spearheading operationsoper at the beach resort, has been associated with tourism boards industry, Gupta brings with him an experience of andand ensuring growth with innovative strategies. DQG OX[XU\ KRWHO FKDLQV LQ KHU  \HDUV RI pre-opening and expertise in revenue analysis, +LVVWURQJWHDPEXLOGLQJVNLOOVH[SHUWDSSURDFK+LVVWURQJWHDPEXLOG experience with the hospitality industry. In yield management and sales and marketing. Prior towards business development,dev comprehensive KHUFXUUHQWUROH-RVKLZLOOVSHDUKHDG6DOHV  WR WKLV *XSWD ZRUNHG ZLWK 2UFKLG (FRWHO +RWHO knowledgeknowledge of internationalintern standard service 0DUNHWLQJIRUWKUHHUHVRUWV+XYDIHQ)XVKL 3XQHLQWKHFDSDFLW\RI*HQHUDO0DQDJHUZKHUHKH proceduresprocedures and a resilient background in Amilla Fushi and Finolhu. She is not a new was in charge of overseeing the transformation hospitality, provides strategic and IDFH WR 0DOGLYHV DV VKH KDV SUHYLRXVO\ IRU WKH KRWHO +LV FDUHHU DOVR ERDVWV WDFWLFDO GHSWK WR WKH KRWHO +H worked with Sun Siyam hotels. of a successful stint at The Orchid bringsbrings international experience 0XPEDL DV *HQHUDO 0DQDJHU WR VSDQQLQJVSDQQ WKH 8. 8$( DQG eventually leading the team as ,QGLD,QGLD .KRVOD KROGV D 0%$ LQ Vice President–Operations. 0DUNHWLQJ0DQDJHPHQW0D

Swadesh Kumar, President, Adventure Tour Operators Hugh Aitken6HQLRU'LUHFWRU³6WUDWHJLF3DUWQHUVKLSV Runeep Sangha ([HFXWLYH 'LUHFWRU 3$7$ ,QGLD Association of India, believes in living life to the fullest. Skyscanner, spends his free time travelling with family. &KDSWHUEHOLHYHVLQÀQGLQJKDSSLQHVVLQZRUN6DQJKD +HVD\V´:KHQHYHU,JHWIUHHWLPH,ORYHWRVSHQGLW ´,QGLDLVYHU\FORVHWRP\KHDUW,ZRXOGORYHWRWUDYHO loves to explore South America, Greece and South ZLWK P\ JUDQGFKLOGUHQµ .XPDU to more parts of India, New York and San Francisco,” $IULFD +LV DGYLFH WR QHZFRPHUV LQ possess immense love for says Aitken. The destinations the industry is, "Work, read and the mountains and thus, he on his bucket list H[SORUHWREHFRPHDVXEMHFW is found in the hills most LQFOXGH 6ZLW]HUODQG DQG matter expert. Always RIWHQ $FFRUGLQJ WR .XPDU Scandinavia. Addressing think from the customer’s ´$WUDYHOOHUPXVWKDYHDQRSHQ the the tourism aspirants, point of view. Customer PLQGZKLOHWUDYHOOLQJWKDWLVD $LWNHQ RSLQHV ´, UHTXHVW loyalty delivers revenue and travel essential.” As a veteran WKHQHZMRLQHUVWRVHHWKLV HYHQWXDOO\SURÀWV RIWKHWRXULVPLQGXVWU\.XPDU·V industry as a career and message for newcomers in not as a stop or wait for the industry is that one something else.” should work honestly and to the best of one’s abilities.

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 30 6/4/2018 12:49:58 PM TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 31 6/4/2018 12:50:00 PM Postal Reg. No.: DL(ND)-11/6044/2018-19-20; WPP No.: U(C)-178/2018-20 for posting on 1st-2nd and 16th-17th of the same month at NDHO, New Delhi - 110001, RNI No.: 53492/1991 Date of Publication: 30-05-2018 Head to SA for adrenaline kick With over 300 adventure activities, South Africa is undoubtedly the adventure capital of the world, and India is the biggest adventure market for the country, believes Hanneli Slabber, General Manager– Middle East, Asia & Australasia, South African Tourism.

$PULWD*KRVKIURP'XUEDQ est possible period. They are VD\V´,Q6RXWK$IULFDZHQRZ venues including large conven- activity-driven, knowledgeable, observe that a lot more spe- WLRQ FHQWUHV ORFDWHG LQ 'XUEDQ ndians travelling to South Af- LQWHUDFWLYH DQG TXLWH LQQRYDWLYH FLDOLVW UHTXHVWV DUH FRPLQJ LQ Johannesburg and Cape Town Irica seem to perfectly reso- in their approach to holidays. And we have offerings like our which skillfully cater to events of QDWH WKH ROG VD\LQJ ´$GYHQ- The travel period for Indians is book clubs and horse riding ac- any stature.” A variety of options tures are to the adventurous.” EHWZHHQ0DUFKDQG6HSWHPEHU tivities.” On workingrking with Indian exist to cater for conferences, With a diverse set of activities which is low season in South travel trade, SlabberSlabber stronglystrongly HHYHQWVDQGLQFHQWLYHVRIDOOVL]HVYHQWVDQGLQFHQWLYHVRIDOOVL]HV ranging from mountain bik- Africa,” Slabber mentioned. believes that an appropriate un-un- aandnd budgets.budgets.”” ing, shark cage diving, bungee derstanding, methodologyethodology and MXPSLQJ WR KRUVHEDFN VDIDULV On Indaba, Slabber said logic is essentialal to be applied the Indian crowd is always on that Africa's Travel Indaba is like while forging relationshipselationships with the search for experiencing a one-stop shop for the tour- the Indian trade. adrenaline rushes, says Hanneli LVP LQGXVWU\ ´$Q\ERG\ ZKR Slabber *HQHUDO 0DQDJHU² needs to buy a tourism product Talking aboutout the targets 0LGGOH(DVW$VLD $XVWUDODVLD LQ$IULFDFDQMXVWFRPHKHUHDW VHW IRU  6ODEEHU6ODEEHU VD\V 6RXWK$IULFDQ7RXULVP´,QGLDLV our biggest adventure market in With more than 60,000 different the world. It is also important LQWHUPVRIMREFUHDWLRQDPRQJ tourism packages, it is difficult to decide the locals as compared to other which ones to offer and which ones to countries. Earlier, only the young crowd used to take the plunge pull out as Indians want to cover the EXWQRZHYHQ\HDUROGSHR- SOHDUHHTXDOO\XSEHDWIRUDGYHQ- maximum within the shortest period. They tures,” says Slabber. are activity-driven, interactive and innova-

The challenge, however, tive in their approach to holidays comes with the variety of prod- ucts South Africa has on offer. this trade show. From an inter- ´/DVW\HDUZHDOPRVWWRXFKHGOPRVWWRXFKHG ´:LWK PRUH WKDQ  GLIIHU- action point of view, meetings WKHNPDUN7KLV\HDUZH7KLV\HDUZH ent tourism packages to visitors, DUH H[WUHPHO\ LPSRUWDQW +RZ ZDQWHG WR UHDFKFK NNVR VR LW LV GLIÀFXOW WR GHFLGH ZKLFK we measure the success of the we want to breakbreak alike.alike. ones to offer and which ones to show is because of the presence -DQXDU\ WR 0D\0D\ ORRNHGORRNHG pull out as Indians want to cover of our online diary system - we incredibly good.d. We have the maximum within the short- don’t measure success by the mixed feelings aboutabout the next number of exhibitors or buyers two months.” but how many actual meetings Number Game we have set up and how many From Januaryary to Sep-Sep- RIWKRVHZHUHDFWXDOO\IXOÀOOHGµ WHPEHU  0L&(0L&( FRQFRQ- ,Q,QGLDQV WULEXWHG WR  SHU FHQWFHQW travelled to South Africa, as per the latest figures by South Africa is one of the of total Indian arrivalsarrivals ttoo South African Tourism preferred destinations for Indi- South Africa. Onn new in-in- ans looking to holiday abroad centive programmesmmes for $FFRUGLQJWR81:72 as it is perhaps the only coun- 0L&( 6ODEEHUH[SODLQV ´:H´:H per cent more international tourists visited Africa in try where adventure, history are coming up wwithith a new con-con- SXVKLQJXSWKH and lifestyle seamlessly inte- YHQWLRQDOEXUHDXIRU0L&(RSXIRU0L&(RS- number of tourists to 5 grates into each other. Talking erators. South AfricaAfrica is a hub per cent about the changing demands of for meetings inn Africa, with agents over the years, Slabber PRUH WKDQ  FRQ FRQIHUHQFHIHUHQFH

TT JUNE 1ST 2018_FINAL.indd 32 6/4/2018 12:50:03 PM CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 1 clients whichincludes,pre- hassle-free experiencetoits toofferasmooth, services the companywillinnovateits and President, TravelBullz, cording to innovation inthisdomain.Ac- and towards customerservice the year2018isdedicated ence andforthecompany, enhance customerexperi- T its-kind inaDMCmodel. This willupgrade thecompany’s SICLandCombostoafullyguidedpackage. This year TravelBullz LandComboPackages planstooffer itsEscorted for Bangkok andPattaya, afirst-of- Innovating withlandpackages transactions seamless business, therebymaking play amajorroleinhospitality computerised experience seem morehumanthana making GoogleAssistant the texttospeechwithAI, Google’s technologieslike Duplex technologymergedall AI Ankita Saxena challenging the norms to challenging thenorms ravelBullz isconstantly

Artificial Intelligencewould Artificial The latestlaunchofGoogle in business ddppl.ind KD Singh , Founder 60 13 09 06 conventionally wehavealways Groups/MiCE business.“While healthy growthforbothFITand cals ofTravelBullz witnessing company withvariousverti- strongnoteforthe on avery outbound seasonhasstarted Singh explainsthatthisyear’s presence,” saysSingh. replicated inallcitieswithour success andsoonitwillbe this newproducttobeabig the DMCmodel.We expect JXHVW7KLVZRXOGEHDÀUVWLQ and dailywaterbottlesforeach daybreakfast such asarrival package withvalueadd-ons Land Combostoafullyguided will completelymoveourSIC onaSICbudget.This service guests getthebestonground which ensuresthatallour ages forBangkokandPattaya LandComboPack- Escorted WKLV WRZDUGV goal, isthelaunchofourfully VWHS ÀUVW ´7KH ground services. sales, postandon- eyes MiCE Suryaa The Supplement of

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JUNE 1 ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE2018 arrival daybreakfastanddailywaterbottlesforguests Combos toafullyguidedpackagewithvalueadd-onssuchas service onaSICbudget.ThiswillcompletelymoveourLand and Pattaya ensuresthatallourguestsgetthebestonground The launchofEscortedLandComboPackages forBangkok the cards properties on Parfait’s numbers whiletoSin- cake ingrowthwithrespectto The Philippineshavetakenthe tinations likeDubai,Baliand holidays,des- For short-haul destinations inWestern Europe. favourite followedbytheusual from India,USAhasbeenahot regular long-hauldestinations He pointsoutthatofthe changing trendsinthemarket. Pages: 16 gapore have also gapore havealso seen steady seen steady growth. He growth. He adds, “In adds, “In terms

of seg- TravTalkIndia.com ments, MiCE H RQV XWD$UWLÀFLDO WKDW Intelligence wouldplayama- RXW SRLQWV +H FKDQJH VLJQLÀFDQW PRVW WKH isgoingtotravelthrough ryone feels thatasanindustry, eve- unprecedented rise,Singh and mobiletransactionsonan With businessesgoingdigital celebrations.” and anniversary events likeweddings,birthdays tial travelandforsocial of momentumareexperien- which havebeengainingalot ever, thetwonewsegments recorded steadygrowth.How- ellers, FITbusinesshasalso oftheIndiantrav- tion pattern Keeping upwiththeconsump- travel hasbeengrowingrapidly. market enters Tier-II The Park

5/25/2018 8:47:14 PM reservations onbestavailable reservations through websitesandmaking planning itineraries,scanning or GoogleAssistantwouldbe “It wouldnotbelongwhenSiri leled toanythingseenbefore. ing userexperienceunparal- through valuechainsandmak- transactions seamless,cutting hospitality business,making jor roleinalldevelopments experience,” addsSingh. human thanacomputerised Google Assistantseemmore text tospeechwithAI,making Google’s technologieslikethe technology whichmergedall latest launchofGoogleDuplex prices. Acaseinpointisthe 2 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 2 5/25/2018 8:47:16 PM GUESTCOLUMN JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 3 Are you ready for travel yet? The much-awaited holiday season is around the corner and we're packing our bags. While you have closed the ‘to-do’ list, it’s the financial protection cover which is needed to safeguard and make your trip hassle-free, a must-have travel insurance policy. Antony Jacob, CEO, Apollo Munich, ticks off some of the boxes...

n the excitement of explor- such as increasing the length ting injured in an accident, or ZLOOEHUHTXLUHGWREX\VSHFLÀF ÁLJKWV DW WZRWKUHH DLUSRUWV last thing one should consider Iing a new location with your of the stay, change in tickets, JHWWLQJ \RXU ÁLJKW FDQFHOOHG travel insurance plans. which also increases the risk ZKLOHÀQDOLVLQJWKHLUSROLF\ loved ones, it’s important to expense on food and travel due to inclement weather but of baggage loss or delay, a be mindful of things which are – all of which, which has not it makes sure that you have YGeography: Travel insur- policy which covers this clause So, let’s cover ourselves not under one’s control - from been accounted for. assistance when you really ance plans can be bought for VKRXOGEH\RXUÀUVWEHW well before we enjoy that break minor incidences like cancel- need it. global or a particular geogra- we have earned. After all, pre- lation of trip, loss of baggage Let’s talk about another phy-based coverage. So ensure YSeamless experience: Do vention is better than cure. to major incidences such as scenario – you need to at- Selecting the best policy your travel destination is cov- look for a policy which prom- Have a safe trip! unexpected accidents, losing tend a business meeting the A best policy is nothing ered before choosing a plan. ises a seamless experience. your passport in a foreign land, day you land, but the airline but the amalgamation of your Also, to enjoy this, it’s advis- (The views expressed medical emergencies and loss has misplaced your baggage. requirements and the offer- YTrip cancellation cover: able to declaring all items that are solely of the author. of baggage. So, will you spend time wait- ings. For instance, if you are a Do double check whether the you plan to carry along for The publication may or may not subscribe to the same.) ing in the airport or would like frequent traveller, multiple trip policy covers cancellation \RXUWULS7KLVPDNHVWKHÀOLQJ Preempt and prepare to prepare for your meeting? policy is something you should FKDUJHV LQ DQ HYHQW RI ÁLJKW process easier and relatively Before packing your bags, Goes without saying that the look for. A quick glance on the cancellation due to unforeseen hassle-free. do ensure you are prepared most obvious question here below shall help you arrive at circumstances. This aspect for the uncertainties, should would be are you covered for what you are looking for: QDWXUDOO\ ÁRZV LQWR UHSODFH- YReviews: A must-do be- something unpleasant happen this loss – loss of time, energy, PHQWRIWLFNHWVÁLJKWVDQGWKH fore you hit the click button to while travelling. Consider a mental exhaustion? YUnexpected expenses: expenses incurred on them. buy the policy you like. In this scenario where a family holi- Ensure that your trip expenses With the world moving towards digital age, I can’t emphasise daying to make memories and But if such unwarranted are covered which typically in- customer experience, do opt enough the need and impor- due to weather change, the situations are preempted and cludes protection for medical for a policy which keeps you in tance of a quick search to youngest member falls under worked around in advance, expenses, emergency evacu- the centre and is ready to cover ÀQG WKH UHYLHZ RI \RXU the weather. The treatment in a there is no way it will work as ations, loss of baggage and your alternate expenses. shortlisted policies. foreign land will ruin the whole a deterrent in the foreign land. belongings. However, senior experience of the vacation. Not A travel insurance policy can’t citizens and travellers with pre- YDelay of checked bag- YPremium: However entic- Antony Jacob to mention additional problems stop you from falling ill, or get- existing medical conditions gage: If you have connecting ing this may sound, this is the CEO, Apollo Munich IATO's new team meets members The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) organised its first luncheon meeting for members at The Leela Ambience Gurugram post electing its new team in April. The new team members addressed the gathering and shared their plans ahead.

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 3 5/25/2018 8:47:20 PM 4 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 FAMILYALBUM Indaba creates new stories Held in Durban, Africa’s Travel Indaba welcomed visitors, exhibitors, delegates and buyers from across the continent and world. The theme for this year’s show was about telling African success stories, and a big part of this will be celebrating the centenary of Nelson Mandela’s birth with tourism delegates from all over the world.

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 4 5/25/2018 8:47:29 PM NTO JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 5 Qatar sets eyes on India market With its recent opening of a representative office in Mumbai, Qatar Tourism Authority focuses on multiple segments in India like MiCE, weddings, FITs, family and weekend travellers.

TT Bureau good premium offerings. Be- sides its resorts, beaches, 7$·V UHSUHVHQWDWLYH RIÀFH shopping and F&B offerings, it Qatar attractions Qin India will oversee a wide will also showcase its culture, The tourism board aims range of promotional initiatives, desert and marine experi- to promote Qatar as an af- fordable luxury destination including workshops, sales vis- ences to the India market. with premium offerings its, travel agent destination train- MiCE will be a key seg- ing through QTA’s online Tawash ment in its strategy for India Besides its resorts, programme, partnerships with KDYLQJ LWV QDWLRQDO FDUULHU Á\ beaches, shopping and F&B offerings, it will show- tour operators, familiarisation over 150 destinations. case its culture, desert and trips, media campaigns and a marine experience variety of innovative activities to Rashed Saeed Al-Qurese About 70 per cent of Qa- UDLVH4DWDU·VSURÀOHDVDOHLVXUH Chief Marketing & Promotion tar’s hotels are under four and and business tourism destination 2IÀFHU4DWDU7RXULVP$XWKRULW\ ÀYHVWDU FDWHJRULHV ZLWK JUHDW among Indian tourists. Speaking meeting facilities and two con- DW WKH WRXULVP RIÀFH RSHQLQJ visa free entry and more than vention and exhibition halls in Rashed Saeed Al-Qurese, Chief  ZHHNO\ ÁLJKWV EHWZHHQ Doha. In 2017, Qatar recorded 0DUNHWLQJ  3URPRWLRQ 2IÀFHU the two countries. We look to over 3,33,708 Indian tour- Qatar Tourism Authority said, focus on multiple segments in ists. For the period January to “India is an important source the country like MiCE, wed- April this year, it recorded 1, market for us. With an eye on In- dings, FITs, family travellers 56, 726 Indian tourists, an in- crease of 15 per cent as com- India is our market for future expansion pared to the year 2017 for the same period. not only because of the number of tourists but because of the accessibility, visa free entry and more than 174 weekly flights between the two countries

dia in the past few years, we felt and extended weekend travel- WKHQHHGWRÀ[RXUYLVDSROLFLHV lers given that we are a short ÀUVW/DVW\HDUZHKDGUHYDPSHG haul destination from India.” the visa policies for 80 countries, The tourism board aims to including India, which allows promote Qatar as an afford- visa free arrival for Indians into able luxury destination with Qatar. Then we had our market study and appointed tourism UHSUHVHQWDWLYH RIÀFH EDVHG LQ Mumbai. We want to know our industry partners and build a good relationship with them in the Indian market.”

Al-Qurese further adds, “India is our market for future expansion not only because of the number of tourists but because of the accessibility,

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 5 5/25/2018 8:47:31 PM 6 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 HOTELSXYZ

The Suryaa eyes MiCE The Suryaa New Delhi, has refurbished its public areas and banqueting facilities to meet guest expec- tations and offer add-on value. This year, the hotel will focus on boosting its MiCE business. working hard to TT Bureau increase its digital presence in the mar- he Suryaa New Delhi, has ket. Kumar points out Tundergone a refurbishment that the focus area is to of its public areas and has drive traction through the ho- also upgraded its F&B serv- tel website for which the portal ices at the hotel. The hotel’s has been revamped. “While our General Manager, Dhananjay OTA partners sell rooms online, Kumar, explains that today, this year, we want to sell the the best products are avail- minor operating departments con- able everywhere but if service independently through digital vert and personal touch is miss- platforms. For example, guests traction Dhananjay Kumar ing, one cannot survive in this General Manager who stay for more than three of in-house competitive market. “This is 7KH6XU\DD1HZ'HOKL nights can get laundry services guests towards where we stand out. Our USP at a competitive price or book the hotel’s F&B is providing personalised serv- and other depart- ice, exceeding guest expecta- While our OTA partners sell rooms ments to drive rev- tions and making sure they are enue,” he explains. looked after. Along with this, online, this year, we want to sell the minor we understand that upgrading In order to add another our products is also impor- operating departments independently stream of revenue generation, tant. Thus, all our public ar- through digital platforms. The aim is to the hotel will also focus on MiCE eas, banqueting facilities have business in the city. Kumar our been redone. Also, the menu at convert traction of in-house guests elaborates, “Since the summer ban- our F&B outlets has been ap- season in the city is based on queting plauded by the guests and we pates at domestic and interna- a spa and salon services at a long stays, corporate and MiCE services to hope to continue to offer them tional trade fairs and has been discounted rate. The aim is to business, we have revamped attract MiCE an elaborate spread of inter- travellers. national cuisine. We sell what We have many is demanded by our guests,” breakaway rooms says Kumar. equipped with state-of- the-art audio-visual con- In terms of marketing and ference facilities to cater to promotions, the hotel partici- the segment.”

Social media is also a MiCE in focus focus area and the hotel has been inviting bloggers to re- soft- Since the summer view the property. Facebook, ware to season in Delhi is based Instagram and Twitter are some get guest on MiCE business, the hotel has revamped its channels being used to drive feedback banqueting services to at- awareness. Kumar further adds DQG ÀJXUH RXW tract MiCE travellers. It has that liking a page and follow- what percent- many breakaway rooms ing it increases reach, but it age of the same equipped with audio-visual does not bring in guests. The would be a repeat conference facilities hotel has been using its clientele.

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 6 5/25/2018 8:47:34 PM XYZ AGENTS JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 7

Radar now on Latin America Senkay Tours and Travels is targeting the Latin American mar- ket for the leisure segment of trav- el to India and is devising new itin- eraries for its inbound guests from Italy, Spain and Russia.

TT Bureau s a company, Senkay Tours Aand Travels specialises in the Italian and Spanish mar- kets and this year, it is eying travellers from Latin America. According to Anil Kumar, Managing Director, Senkay Tours and Travels, the cultural ethos of the company is in sync

with the travellers from Latin Anil Kumar America and thus the company 0DQDJLQJ'LUHFWRU will aim to leverage this fact to 6HQND\7RXUVDQG7UDYHOV Arun Khanna 'LUHFWRU attract more travellers to the &RORQHO·V5HWUHDW country. He says, “We are tar- With Senkay geting largely the leisure market from this new market but with Global division deal- Senkay Global division, which ing with tours and Mid-segment is dealing with tours and event management, we are getting event management, actively involved in the MiCE business as well. Our research we are getting is the future and development teams are actively involved in quite active in devising newer Colonel’s Retreat plans to enhance the itineraries, researching new and MiCE business potential markets and collabo- quality of its existing properties and boost rating with new partners.” a favourable tourist destination. Foreign guests have many ap- business through marketing. Kumar feels that India’s prehensions about the country unique proposition is its un- which means that they are not TT Bureau digital platform is the new way to market one’s company. “We matched hospitality but the tour adequately informed by their re- are using digital marketing tools like SEO, SMO, Google Adwords operators selling the destina- spective partners in India.” Ku- Colonel’s Retreat offers proper- to increase visibility of the company. Apart from this, we partici- tion lack in terms of knowledge mar further claims that there are ties strategically located in the capital pate in travel trade shows like GITB.” about the requirements of the issues with lack of proper infra- city coupled with handcrafted holidays foreign guests. He explains that structure and unfortunately not to non-group travellers or FITs. Arun Identifying a phenomenon in the hospitality industry, this gap can be bridged by get- enough is being done neither by Khanna, Director, Colonel’s Retreat, says, Khanna points out that future opportunity for hotel chains lay ting to know the foreign guests the industry nor the state level “We specialise in catering guests with our per- in the mid-segment market, the space where Colonel’s Retreat better but before that, it is more authorities. “It is often observed sonalised services and plan to keep improving is already operating in. “The base of travellers both inbound and important for the service pro- that various meetings conduct- than look at expanding properties. We have been domestic is increasing, the e-Visa facility has boosted tour- viders to know India better. “In ed amongst the government successful so far with our product offer and value-add, ism in general. A traveller cannot always spend $300-$400 on fact, I believe that most of the authorities and trade is more and we aim to continue following this model.” hotel rooms, they want deals on the hotel stay and it is thus destination management com- of a symbolic gesture which is important to bridge the gap between budget and high-end panies do not have enough not taken to any concrete In terms of promotional plans, Khanna explains that the accommodation choices.” knowledge to present India as conclusion,” he adds.

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 7 5/25/2018 8:47:37 PM 8 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 FAMILYALBUM Agents network at GTM 2018 The 44th Germany Travel Mart (GTM) opened in Dresden, Germany and saw the presence of tour operators and journalists from around the world. After a short welcome of the delegates at the Church of Our Lady of Dresden, the inaugural ceremony took place at the Kulturpalast Dresden. The Indian delegation comprised 11 agents and six media people.

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 8 5/25/2018 8:47:46 PM AGENTS JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 9 Parfait’s properties on the cards Parfait Hospitality will soon launch its 28-room resort property in Manali, followed by a 56-room hotel in Zirakpur which will be equipped with all the necessary MiCE facilities.

TT Bureau at their hotels. The company we are recording 10 per cent business across our proper- lower rates may provide direct currently works with hotels year on year growth and hope ties. At the property in Jim EHQHÀW WR WKH FRPSDQ\ IRU hotel management, en- on three models—manage- to perform much better in Corbett, we outsource series a short run but in the longer Alargement, marketing and ment, lease and branding and the future.” departure tours for the hotel.” run, destroy the travel agent branding company, Parfait soon will reintroduce its mar- network,” says Tuli. Hospitality provides consist- keting model in 2018-19. Largely focussed on the He further explains that ent, economical and comfort- domestic segment of travel, almost 85 per cent of the com- Apart from participation able hospitality experience Raman Tuli, Managing the company receives its pany’s business is sourced at major travel trade shows Director, Parfait Hospitality, informs that the company had Target Group inaugurated its 48-room prop- Our Bikaner property is the only one which is pitched to the erty in Shimla in October 2017 Largely focussed on inbound guests. If our expectations are met then we will do about 10 and will now launch its four- the domestic segment per cent of inbound business across our properties of travel, Parfait Hospitality star, 28-room resort property receives its guests through in Manali by mid-2018. The various tour operators, new properties in the pipeline guests through various tour through the travel agent net- and advertisements in OTAs and corporates include one 56-room hotel in operators, OTAs and corpo- work. “I feel that in an attempt print media, the company Zirakpur which also has ban- rates. Tuli points out, “Our to compete with others on makes use of various If expectations are met, queting facilities of 15,000 Bikaner property is the only the digital platform, we may digital marketing tools the company will do sq ft along with a rooftop and one which is pitched to the have to lower the price of the and social media to 10 per cent of inbound F&B services. “We recorded a inbound guests. If our expec- product to sell it in volume, promote its brand business across its major dip in business, almost tations are met then we will do which would eventually lower and markets its properties 26 per cent, in 2014 but now about 10 per cent of inbound the value of the product. The products.

AHS to market Sri Lanka Visit Victoria visits Mumbai Absolute Hospitality Services (AHS) India, the sister company of Rockstays, has been appointed as the sales representative for Sri Lanka-based Amago Tours.

TT Bureau mago Tours specialises Ain crafting amazing expe- riences for its guests while handling customised FIT and group travellers visiting the tropical Indian Ocean. Accord- ing to Asanka Nanayakkara, Carmen Smith, Head of International Markets, Visit Victoria, recently met up with key tour operators in Director and Owner, Amago 0XPEDLRYHUDQLQIRUPDOJHWWRJHWKHU,WZDVKHUÀUVWYLVLWWRWKHFRXQWU\DQGVKRZHGWKHVWDWHRI9LFWRULD V Tours, the destination is commitment to the India market. popular among all segments of travellers ranging from Asanka Nanayakkara Anuradha Singh 'LUHFWRUDQG2ZQHU 'LUHFWRU honeymooners, FIT travellers $PDJR7RXUV $+6,QGLD and family groups to large corporate travel. “We are companies and hotels covers Turkish Airlines is game happy about our association countries in Asia, Middle East, ditional marketing and sales with India and really excited Africa and Europe. channels, new age technology to receive Indian clients,” systems and social media to says Nanayakkara. Absolute Anuradha Singh, Director, boost business. “We will pro- Hospitality Services is a tour- AHS India explains that as the mote Sri Lanka as a destination with a focus on personalised Absolute Hospitality Services is a tourism and curated travel experiences. These will include Colombo, advisory and marketing company and its Bentota, Galle, Kandy among other unique destinations portfolio of destination management com- within Sri Lanka and also ac- panies and hotels cover countries in Asia, WLYLWLHVVXFKDVVXUÀQJZKDOH watching, heritage sightseeing, Middle East, Africa and Europe etc. Our target market will es- sentially be B2B with a focus 7XUNLVK$LUOLQHVWKHRIÀFLDOWLWOHVSRQVRURIWKH(XUR/HDJXH%DVNHWEDOOFKDPSLRQVKLSUHQHZHGLWVFRPPLWPHQW ism advisory and marketing exclusive marketing and sales on Tier-I cities such as Mum- to the game in which Real Madrid became the champion team of the exciting Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final company and its portfolio partner of Amgo Tours in India, bai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Four 2018, following a decisive victory at Belgrade’s Štark Arena in Serbia. The EuroLeague Basketball cham- of destination management the company will use both tra- etc,” says Singh. pionship was established in 2000 as the most important basketball competition in Europe.

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 9 5/25/2018 8:47:48 PM 10 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 FAMILYALBUM Travel trade engage & interact Intime Travels recently organised a gala evening in Mumbai for the travel trade partners to allow them to network and discuss future business opportunities. The event saw the who’s who of the tourism and hospitality industry mark their attendance to meet and greet their industry colleagues.

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 10 5/25/2018 8:47:58 PM HOTELS JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 11 Treehouse on an expansion drive Treehouse Hotels and Resorts recorded an increase in occupancy but stagnant average room rates last year. This year, the company has signed up two new properties in Jodhpur and will target to market itself extensively through digital platforms and an increased trade connect.

consists of smaller inventory remained static or even dipped tel in Gurugram this year.” towards marketing. Showcas- which have received fabulous TT Bureau but higher value.” Singh further at some locations. She adds, ing ourselves at important trade response in terms of branding reehouse Hotels and Re- points out that this year, though “The property at Ranthambore On the marketing and pro- shows is an integral part of the and lead generation.” The ho- Tsorts, a mid segment hotel the company recorded an aver- picked up occupancy by two motional front, the company will plan while we partner with vari- tel chain is actively engaging brand operates 17 hotels in age occupancy of 58 per cent, per cent but the room rates use various digital platforms ous online platforms to create with ADTOI and IATO and has business and leisure locations an increase of three per cent remained static. Our average and word of mouth to generate synergies. The digital marketing become members of these as- like NCR, Bhiwadi, Goa, Neem- from last year across its prop- occupancy has shot up also business. “The digital platform front includes our own web- sociations to boost inbound and rana, Ranthambore, Jodhpur, erties, the average room rates because we added another ho- KDV EHHQ RXU ÀUVW DSSURDFK site, campaigns on Facebook domestic segments alike. Chail and Jaipur. The hotel group takes pride in offering large spaces and in some cas- es Club facilities are provided for the local non-residents. It’s palace hotels, located mostly in Rajasthan, come replete with HLWKHU KHULWDJH FHUWLÀFDWLRQ RU are done in the palatial style, while the serviced apartments are large and spacious with a full kitchenette in locations with availability of entertainment hubs and restaurants in the vicinity.

Richa K Singh ([HFXWLYH9LFH3UHVLGHQW 7UHHKRXVH+RWHOV5HVRUWV 6HUYLFHG$SDUWPHQWV

Our focus remains on expan- sion in Rajasthan, Goa and the hill stations. Our hotel portfolio consists of smaller inventory but higher value

Richa K Singh, Executive Vice President, Treehouse Ho- tels Resorts Serviced Apart- ments, informs that the com- pany has recently signed up with two new heritage hotels in Jodhpur with 47 keys and 25 keys. “We have also launched our 63 keys property in Neem- rana in May which aims to be a great getaway for travellers from Delhi/NCR. Our primary focus remains on expansion in Rajasthan, Goa and the hill stations. Our hotel portfolio

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 11 5/25/2018 8:47:59 PM 12 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 HOTELS WelcomHeritage in Nainital Minar’s Vilasa eyes French market Get ready for summers with a stay at the newly-opened After recording success for its luxury brand—Vilasa, WelcomHeritage Ashdale in Nainital—an old manor in the US and Latin American market, Minar Travels from the British era, offering the best in comfort and is now planning to introduce the product in its French local experiences in the midst of nature. market this year.

TT Bureau been renovated and refurbished who want to explore the sur- TT Bureau designed tour programmes aim to convert it to a posh boutique rounding areas can request the at a new approach to luxury trav- elcomHeritage has opened property, which will meet the hotel for a nature walk up to ilasa is the luxury brand of el so that one can explore India Wan all new property in VWDQGDUGV RI WKH KLJKSURÀOH Dorothy Seat, Cheena Peak and VMinar Travels India, which and its neighbouring countries Nainital—WelcomHeritage Ash- guests that will be staying here. Snow View. Guests can also ex- aims at a new approach to beyond the well-known paths dale in Nainital, taking its portfo- The hotel has 24 meticulously plore picnic options to Bhimtal, luxury travel in India. “We at Vi- of conventional travel,” says lio size to a total of 41. The co- designed guest rooms with Saat Tal, Naukuchia Tal and lasa, with our in-depth research, HS Duggal, Managing Director, lonial structure which was built balconies and verandahs, over- many other beautiful locations honest commitment to quality Minar Travels. by the English as their summer looking the green spaces in and around Nainital. Those who do and personalised services are residence is now owned by the around. The galleries provide not want to go too far can opt FRQÀGHQW WKDW RXU OX[XU\ WUDYHO Coupled with vast infra- Royalty of Sahaspur. a glimpse into the bygone era for horse riding or sailing on the tours in India and beyond are the structure and network of ex- through historical pictures. The tranquil lake. best-of-its-kind. Our thoughtfully ceptional heritage properties HS Duggal Sunil Gupta, CEO, Wel- 0DQDJLQJ'LUHFWRU comHeritage shared, “Adding 0LQDU7UDYHOV WelcomHeritage Ashdale in our group is a part of our expansion Currently, we are not looking at large numbers with Vilasa and are targeting few, high-value clients without diluting the product

Sunil Gupta CEO WelcomHeritage and top hotels in India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Maldives, Minar Travels’ luxury product Like every helps its clients with memo- rable travel experiences. “We WelcomHeritage launched this product in the US property, Ashdale is and Latin America and are now looking at introducing the same also a true reflection in the French market this year. of Indian culture. We The response has been very good and in our third year of are proud to have it operations, we recorded nearly 200 per cent growth. We are not in our family. With looking at large numbers with Vi- this, the group has lasa and are targeting few, high- value clients without diluting the now increased the product,” adds Duggal. list to 41 properties in India Going Beyond 0LQDU7UDYHOV WKRXJKW- plans for 2018. This heritage fully designed tour building, which is now converted programmes aim at a new into a hotel, is a unique property, approach to luxury travel so nestled amidst the green oaks that one can explore India and its neighbouring coun- and deodars. What makes this tries beyond the well-known property more unique is seren- paths of conventional travel ity of the location and old-world charm which is still untouched. Like every WelcomHeritage property, Ashdale has also been furniture narrates the story of a nd DWUXHUHÁHFWLRQRI,QGLDQFXOWXUH gracious lifestyle. Explore around We are extremely proud to have IHCL signs 2 Ginger in Vizag it in our WelcomHeritage family. The guests here will be in For those who want to explore the surroundings The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) signed a new Ginger hotel in Visakhapatnam. It will be Ginger’s With this new addition, the group for a culinary fest at the multi can go for a nature walk up second hotel in the city. Ginger Hotels’ portfolio has 45 operating hotels and seven hotels in the pipeline. The has increased the list to 41 prop- cuisine restaurant - Green Oak, to Dorothy Seat, Cheena DQQRXQFHPHQWUHÁHFWVWKHFRPSDQ\·VVWUDWHJLFGRPHVWLFH[SDQVLRQWRGULYHJURZWKPRPHQWXP7KHQHZ erties in India.” serving Indian, continental and Peak and Snow View. *LQJHULQ9LVDNKDSDWQDPZLWKURRPVDQDOOGD\GLQHUPHHWLQJURRPDQGDÀWQHVVFHQWUHLVORFDWHGDW Chinese cuisines. Apart from Guests can also explore Gajuwaka amidst a commercial hub with close proximity to companies like Tata Motors, Nestle, BHEL, GAIL The bungalow, which be- these, there is also a pictur- picnic options to Bhimtal, and many others. The hotel is slated to open mid-2019. longs to the 19th century, has esque tennis court. For those Saat Tal, Naukuchia Tal

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 12 5/25/2018 8:48:00 PM HOTELS JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 13 The Park enters Tier-II market With the launch of Zone by The Park, Jodhpur, The Park Hotels is targeting Tier-II cities for this contemporary yet affordable brand. The hotel chain aims at 20 Zone properties by the end of 2020.

lot of potential and at the same Arora feels that imbalance TT Bureau time there is a vacant market between demand and sup- he Zone by The Park is cur- for good hotels.” ply created over the years Trently present in Coimbatore, has now settled in metros like On the marketing and promo- trade shows at domestic and platforms and digital marketing Jaipur, Chennai ORR, Raipur Identifying hospital- Delhi/NCR and the industry is tional front, the hotel chain will international platforms while tools to boost sales and brand and Bengaluru with upcoming ity trends in the Indian market, witnessing an upward trend. continue to participate in travel it will also use the new media awareness, adds Arora. properties in Mahabalipuram, Coorg, Goa, Gurugram, Indore, Kolkata, Igatpuri, Lucknow, Pondichery, Srinagar, Surat, Vijayawada and Noida. “We are launching The Zone by The Park, Amritsar, which will be commissioned in the next two years. We plan to have 20 Zone properties by the end of 2020. The target segment for these properties is largely the Tier-II cities with a mix of both leisure and corporate segment of travel,” says Rohit Arora, Area General Manager, The Park Hotels.

Rohit Arora Area General Manager 7KH3DUN+RWHOV

We plan to have 20 Zone properties by the end of 2020. The target segment is the Tier-II cities with a mix of both leisure and corporate travel

The hotel chain recorded a growth of almost 14 per cent in ADRs in 2017-18 over the year 2016-17 while the chain recorded year-round occupan- cy of about 90 per cent. Arora LGHQWLÀHV WKDW WKH =RQH EUDQG of the hotel chain is very con- temporary yet affordable and WKXV ÀWV WKH PDUNHW LQ 7LHU,, cities where there is a gap of good quality hospitality serv- ices. He says, “We felt that the market in smaller cities has a

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 13 5/25/2018 8:48:02 PM 14 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 OPPORTUNITY

CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 14 5/28/2018 2:20:50 PM JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 15

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CITYTALK_June-1st-2018_FINAL.indd 16 5/25/2018 8:48:06 PM Supplement of TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 Pages: 8 A DDP PUBLICATION

JAIPUR | APRIL 7-8, 2018

Show REPORT

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY 2 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVEL LUXURY SHOW

Ushering in the era of luxury

The third edition of Travel Luxury Show, recently held in Jaipur, recorded nearly 1800 meetings over two days. The show was marked by intensive one-on-one interactions between 30 exhibitors and 60 buyers, and also included knowledge sessions on the changing dynamics of luxury travel in India.

SIMRANJEET SINGH ARORA about the experience and the quality of service that makes the holiday luxurious. epresentatives from various Mohan explained that it was important hotels like AccorHotels, Ayada There is no set definition for luxury because to understand the requirements of the RMaldives, Corinthia Hotels and clients before suggesting a product while Resorts, Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the trends in this segment change constantly. Kriplani felt that many times, travellers RARE, etc. showcased a variety of booked luxury holidays to brag about luxury offerings at their properties The only way an exhibitor can sell product in them later. to cater to the Indian luxury travel the market is by way of staying updated about segment. Various tourism boards new trends in the industry The show also offered a platform to like Holland Tourism, Department of exhibitors and buyers to interact in pre- Tourism, Philippines, Korea Tourism scheduled B2B table-top meetings. This Organisation, participated at the show in fact luxury has become all about travel designers,’ who do not only sell format, lauded by all attendees, allowed to educate and spread awareness the experience of the journey and luxurious products but also add to a them to discuss potential business about the destination and its products the destination alike. He elaborated, traveller’s life experience. in a time-bound manner. Sahni that can be offered to the high-end “Coming here at a show like this is further explained, “Buyers can get to Indian travellers. luxury in itself. I feel that there is The show presented a panel know about the availability of luxury no set definition for luxury because discussion where in Christine products in the market from various The show was inaugurated by the trends in this segment change Mukharji, Director—India, ANTO exhibitors present at the show. The Guldeep Singh Sahni, Past President, constantly. The only way an exhibitor India; Manish Kriplani, MD, Baywatch exhibitors on the other hand can then Outbound Tour Operators Association can sell his or her product in the Travels and Shoba Mohan, Partner, understand the needs of the clients and of India (OTOAI). According to him, market is by way of staying updated RARE India discussed how the concept match them with the products, by way luxury is a variable concept, defined about new trends in the industry and of luxury travel was changing over of customisation and personalisation. by each individual differently. this is where a show like this becomes the years amongst Indian travellers. Travel Luxury Show always surprises Sahni believes that in today’s era of very relevant.” Acknowledging the The panel highlighted that the Indian me even after I have been attending travel, luxury is no longer about the latest trends in the market, Sahni felt traveller has evolved and thus for him, this show year after year and helps me grandest hotel a client can stay in that those who offer customised and luxury is no longer about the Business to understand what luxury means or the First Class seat in an aircraft; personalised holidays are like ‘luxury Class flight or a five-star hotel; it is more to the world.” JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 3 ,W¶VWLPH IRUEXVLQHVV Travel Luxury Show offered a platform to exhibitors and buyers to interact in pre-scheduled B2B table-top meetings. This format allowed them to discuss potential business in a time-bound manner. Exhibitors

CHRISTINE MUKHARJI TEKLA MAIRA SHOBA MOHAN Director - India Director Luxury Sales- India, Founder - Partner Austrian National Tourist office AccorHotels Rare India

All the buyers It’s always a Being associated had an in-depth pleasure meeting to one of the best knowledge about new people, with new shows in the country the destinations we ideas. It’s almost the has been a pleasure. were showcasing. beginning of holiday The quality of buyers The show had a good season and we get has only increased selection of travel agents who actually meant to know the demands of the client which will year on year. Two features of the show are business. Meeting their expectations and further help us to make amendments in our pre-fixed meetings between exhibitors and working with them is the way forward and business structure as per the requirements buyers, and the precision in terms of time we are looking forward to it. of the market. with which the meetings are conducted.

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Exhibitor’s feedback as received from the show

SHANNON CREADO SUNIL MATHAPATI SANDEEP DUTTA Director of Sales and Marketing Country Manager - India, Bahrain Marketing Manager, Anantara- Kalutara Luxury Resort Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Korea Tourism Organisation New Delhi Travel Luxury Show This show gives This is the second brings in travel us a chance to time we are agents from across understand the attending this show. the country. Buyers requirements of the The closed door and from Ahmedabad dynamic market. To fixed appointments and Chennai have understand luxury, format is one of the shown great interest in Sri Lanka as a we would need to meet different people but things I really like about the show. Every promising destination for the luxury segment this show gave us that one platform where exhibitor is able to execute a fair amount of of travel. I hope this interest will contribute we could meet most of the players from the meetings over a span of two days. It’s very to the growth of tourism in Sri Lanka. industry and discuss the same at length. rare to find such potential events. 4 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVEL LUXURY SHOW

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KARAN SINGH RACHNA JUNEJA MOUMITA MUKHERJEE Chairman & Co- founder Sales Manager – Global PAUL 1524 Bespoke Travel Experiences Accounts, Taj Hotels Palaces Head – Sales and Marketing, Resorts Safaris India, Centara Hotels and Resorts Around 30 exhibitors About 1800 one- This is our second came together on-one meetings consecutive time to display their included a large at the show. Travel products. With the number of partners. Luxury Show outbound season just We met many has been very around the corner, new travel agents prosperous for our we got a chance to meet with travel agents from cities like Hyderabad, Bengaluru and business. It’s more of an investment to come doing outbound tourism. We could get a clear Mumbai who are focused on the outbound to the show and meet over 60 buyers over a picture about the requirements to provide tourism business. I feel this is one of the short span of two days. For us, this show is relevant products and services. most potential shows in the industry. perfect and a great experience.

KUNAL MUNSHAW CLAUDINE N TRIOLO VIKAS SHARMA Partner – Avant Garde Director – Sales and Marketing, Assistant Vice President, Oberoi Consulting Rayavadee, Krabi Hotels & Resorts

This platform With the huge I was able to introduced us to new number of Indians enhance my reach trends in the markets flying into Thailand, and showcase and demands of we have taken my product. The buyers. The platform the initiative to products and made it convenient for us to showcase understand the services offered to our products.Since the definition of luxury latest trends in the luxury segment. Travel travel agents in the luxury segment can be varies from one another, we were able to agents have shown keen interest in Thailand well showcased with the closed door format. understand the same from the perspective of and I think this show will help us grow. The We were able to understand the demands of the travel agents. show has been very professional. the buyers to cater them better. Buyers

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Buyer’s feedback as received from the show JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018 TRAVTALK 7 Buyers

GULDEEP SINGH SAHNI MANISH KRIPLANI SHRUTI SHARMA Managing Director Managing Director Associate Vice President - Weldon Tours and Travels Baywatch Travels Luxury Escapades Cox and Kings I really appreciate I am able to meet This show is an the selection old colleagues from excellent platform to process of buyers the industry as well meet hoteliers and and sellers as well as network and be partners. We are as the amount of familiarized with the made aware about time dedicated for new people. Travel offers from sellers one-to-one interaction. We are able to learn Luxury Show always brings new products to and then make a decision if they suffice our about many new products and also share our the fore and is an important tool to update requirements for future business prospects. requirements with the exhibitors to bridge the travel fraternity of the latest trends and This is a great show with a potential to bring the knowledge gap in the market. demands from the market. in business in the luxury segment of travel.

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Buyer’s feedback as received from the show

MAITREYEE PATEL GAURAV SHARMA ANSHU TEJUJA Director Director Managing Director, Ashoka Pathfinder Holidays Luxury Living Dream Holidays

The show has been The format of the The show offered an informative in the show is the highlight amazing collection context of dealing where a 15-minute of exhibitors. Even with the luxury window allowed though we were products. To cater us one-to-one aware about the to a huge luxury interaction with a products offered market like India, it is very important for us large number of exhibitors. This interesting by many exhibitors at the show, there were to stay updated about the trending luxury show was also instrumental in showcasing many new exhibitors and various new products available in the market to fulfil the new products and services in the luxury products in the market to learn about from requirements of our client. travel market. this show.

SAHIL WAHID REENA RAVI SACHDEVA CHETAN YALLAPURKAR Director Founder Managing Director Revel Travel Links Travel Arena Honeymoon Travels

Sometimes we do Travel luxury Show As buyers, we look not get a chance to is focused, well forward to newer meet some stand- paced and relevant associations with alone properties for today’s market suppliers in order to and suppliers, which needs. In one day’s match the demands were easily available time, we are able of our clientele. to us at the show. We have been able to to meet around 30 new suppliers from the This is a win-win situation for all where the exchange information and discuss market and learn about the various products exhibitors too can understand the needs of our requirements in detail with trending in the market. I would say it’s a the buyers to customise their offerings for the exhibitors. very well-organised show. the same. 8 TRAVTALK JUNE 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2018