TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 1 Vol. XXXIIssue4; 2 February ddppl.comppl.com nd fortnight i fortnight ssue 2019 A DDPPUBLICATION Pages : 28 TravTalkIndia.com 2/19/2019 11:45:19 AM ` 20/- TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 2 2/19/2019 11:45:21 AM Vol. XXXI Issue 4; February 2nd fortnight i ssue 2019 A DDP PUBLICATION Pages : 28 ` 20/- ddppl.com ddppl.com TravTalkIndia.com Fresh set of creatives In an exclusive interview with TRAVTALK, Yogendra Tripathi, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, elaborates on scaling up India’s tourism promotional efforts to enhance its visibility worldwide.

Kanchan Nath session. Incredible India and its exercise at the moment and we have already become active on The growth in terms of people partner pavilion were declared should be ready with it in the social media in a major way.” availing e-visa was 42 per cent ndia received the Award of as ‘Best in Show’ at the New next few months to propagate in 2016 over the previous year; IExcellence for ‘Best in Show’ York Times Travel Show this India’s diverse tourist attrac- On the ease of visa facilities for it further grew by 26 per cent at the recently-concluded year.” He further added that tions across the world. We also international tourists, he added, in 2017. Currently, about 25 New York Times Travel Show MOT is all set to participate per cent of visitors enjoy the (NYTTS) 2019 in New York, at ITB Berlin 2019 along with The Incredible India websites in six major e-visa facility. This means that USA. Yogendra Tripathi, trade partners and travellers do not have to visit Secretary, Ministry of Tourism state governments. international languages should be ready in the Indian embassy but can (MOT), said, “In New York, we the next few months to propagate India’s directly obtain their visa online were the ‘Presenting Partner’ at Keen on taking Incredible India after submitting the requisite NYTTS. We had the opportunity to newer heights, Tripathi wants diverse tourist attractions across the world documents.” This has

of interacting with a number Yogendra Tripathi the websites to be available been extended in order to of leading travel professionals Secretary in at least six major interna- want our digital media to have “Now e-visa facility is available make travelling to India a from the US at the main trade Ministry of Tourism tional languages. “That is our a better reach for which we to citizens of 166 countries. seamless experience. Tourist routes in focus for UDAN 3 The results of Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA’s) Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme’s Round 3 witnessed a major inclusion of tourism routes in coordination with MOT.

Nisha Verma said, “We are working closely MOT which in turn is giving that asked us to conduct tourism the airport, which they are with Ministry of Tourism and money to aviation ministry for route-wise bidding, for which wanting may have enough nder UDAN 3, MoCA Ministry of Commerce as we these routes.” they will be providing funds. ÁLJKWVEXWWKHUHPD\QRWEH Uawarded 235 routes to have sanctioned a programme The difference between MOT DÁLJKWEHWZHHQWZRWRXULVW different airlines, out of which of 12 champion sectors of Rajeev Nayan Choubey, route and the conventional destinations. Hence, the 46 are tourism routes, and 189 service development under Former Secretary, Civil Avia- RCS UDAN route is that MOT MOT’s intention was that we are under Regional Connectiv- which `5000 crores were WLRQVKDUHGWKDWIRUWKHÀUVW wants tourist places to be should conduct the bidding, ity Scheme. Suresh Prabhu, allowed as sanctions. Part of time, MOT came on board connected among them- not for individual airports, Suresh Prabhu Union Minister of Civil Aviation Union Minister of Civil Aviation, that money is being given to for the UDAN scheme. “MOT selves. It may happen that Contd on page 10

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 3 2/19/2019 11:45:23 AM TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 4 2/19/2019 11:45:25 AM BULLETIN Travel tech takes centre stage For the first time, ITB Berlin will witness more than 250 travel technology exhibitors. Lectures, panels and workshops on digital mobility, AI and payment systems will be organised at the eTravel World.

TT Bureau tion programmes will also be place in digitalisation at destina- ers, how revenue management displaying their products. tions. A session titled ‘When can improve hotel performance t ITB Berlin, numerous tourists are more of a curse and how hotels should prepare Atopical themes and informa- Over 70 sessions, panels than a blessing’ will highlight themselves for the digital revo- tive examples of best practices DQGZRUNVKRSVÀUVWKDQG the issue of overtourism. lution in the hotel room. The 2nd await visitors to the eTravel knowledge on trendsetting ITB Hospitality Tech Forum on World from March 6-9, 2019. technological solutions will be Events at the eTravel Lab March 7 is a must for all hotel Those interested in travel available from travel technology will focus on social media, industry decision-makers,

WHFKQRORJ\FDQÀQGRXWPRUHLQ experts. At the eTravel Lab pay- storytelling and community. In where technologies in the exclusive area featuring new ment system, specialists will WKHKRVSLWDOLW\LQGXVWU\HIÀFLHQW hospitality will be analysed technologies, digital marketing look at how the trend towards technology is becoming an with regard to AI, distribution and social media. Companies online payment solutions is increasingly decisive factor for and payment systems. Interna- representing global distribution impacting on destinations, tour establishing successful busi- tional specialists will talk about systems (GDS), tour operator operators and the hospitality ness models. A number of ses- new trends and developments databases, reservation sys- industry. Destination manage- sions will highlight solutions, in guest communications, tems, payment systems, travel ment professionals can get an including how chatbot services upselling and hotel revenue agency software and calcula- overview of the progress taking can overcome language barri- management strategies.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 5 2/19/2019 11:45:27 AM TRAVTALK brings to you news and events years that made headlines 25 years ago with relevance even today. From the archives, VIEWPOINT we present the January 1994 issue: MOT looks Northeast FROM THE ARCHIVES he last one year has witnessed an increased fo- Then Now Tcus on the Northeast under the Swadesh Darshan scheme of Ministry of Tourism (MOT) with a range of projects being inaugurated in Manipur, Nagaland, 0HJKDOD\D DQG 6LNNLP LQFOXGLQJ D IHZ ÀUVWV IRU these states. While a number of projects have been launched, many others are in the pipeline, with money already sanctioned by the government. This, added Vasudha Sondhi Vasudha Sondhi with increased connectivity to the Seven Sisters, in- Manager Managing Director cluding new domestic routes to these states and even Trac Representations Outbound Marketing

international routes from Guwahati under UDAN 3 Vasudha Sondhi, Managing Director, Outbound regional connectivity, has upped the tourism quotient Marketing, has been a prominent face in the travel for the region. Domestic tourists are already looking and tourism industry. In 1994, she had been appointed as Manager of Trac Representations in Delhi. at the Northeastern states with a new fervour and are keen to explore the region. The lifting of PAP restric- tions has also worked in favour of inbound tourism for these states, thereby attracting foreign tourists in great numbers. While these developments would cer- tainly help to get the required numbers, elements like India records fastest growth sustainability and overtourism should not be ignored. The India domestic market posted the fastest full year domestic growth rate for the fourth year in a row (18.6 per cent), according to an International Indian hospitality Air Transport Association (IATA) report.

boom is here Domestic RPK growth by market Domestic demand in India 2018 2017 was underpinned by a HVSLWHÀJKWLQJ*67FRQFHUQVOLTXRUEDQVDQG 7.0% robust economic expansion Industry 7.0% Deven demonetisation issues in the recent past, as well as by increasing Domestic India 18.6% number of domestic pairs. the hospitality industry in India is on a new high. 17.5% The country recorded its 11.7% 50th consecutive month of The year-end Hotel Market Review by Horwarth HTL Domestic China 13.6% double-digit annual growth 9.0% for 2018 revealed that occupancy at all India level Domestic Russia 10.7% in October. touched its highest point for the last 10 years in 2018 5.1% While globally, domestic air Domestic USA while ADR is the highest since 2012. The same tra- 3.5% travel climbed 7 per cent 4.8% last year, which remained Domestic Brazil 4.9% jectory was seen in RevPAR, which reached its 10- unchanged from the rate in 2.0% year high for Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune and Jaipur. Domestic Japan 4.9% 2017. All markets showed annual growth, led by India The report revealed that 90,000 rooms are sold per 1.4% Dom. Australia 1.2% and China, which both day on an average. Bengaluru emerged as the city posted double-digit annual 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% increases, the report stated. with the largest inventory crossing 14,000 while Domestic revenue passenger kilometres (year-to-date, % year-on-year) Delhi NCR remained in the league too because of Source: IATA Economics, IATA Monthly Statistics its location and connectivity coverage. This growth can be credited to the growth of budget and mid- Do you want to... scale hotels across the country. Additionally, MiCE has been a major contributor to the high ADRs. The WRITE A GUEST COLUMN growth shall continue with positive amendments to OR CRZ guidelines and the tax structure; and we shall SHARE NEWS FROM YOUR REGION see this segment shining like never before. Contact: [email protected]

Vikramajit Editorial Advertising Advertising (Mumbai) MUMBAI: Devika Jeet Suchita Saran TRAVTALK is a publication of DDP Publications Private Limited. information contained in this publication which is provided The publisher assumes no responsibility for returning any 504, Marine Chambers, 43, New Marine Lines, Chairman Nisha Verma Nikhil Jeet Branch Manager All information in TRAVTALK is derived from sources, which we for general use, and may not be appropriate for the read- material solicited or unsolicited nor is he responsible for Hazel Jain Director Opp. SNDT College, Mumbai - 400 020, India, Manas Dwivedi Harshal Ashar consider reliable and a sincere effort is made to report ac- ers’ particular circumstances. Contents of this publication material lost or damaged. Ph.: +91-22-22070129; 22070130 SanJeet 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 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: Amrita Ghosh 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 Asst. Desk Editor Z1-02, PO Box: 9348, Saif Zone, Sharjah, UAE Peden Doma Bhutia Susan Eapen the right to refuse, withdraw, amend or otherwise deal with Sr. executive – Sales & marketing this publication, however caused. Similarly, opinions/views publication in writing. The same rule applies when there Ph.:+971-6-5528954, Fax: +971-6-5528956 Managing Editor Vikas Mandotia / Nitin Kumar expressed by third parties in abstract and/or in interviews is a copyright or the article is taken from another publica- all advertisements without explanation. Advertisement Designers are not necessarily shared by TRAVTALK. However, we wish to tion. An exemption is hereby granted for the extracts used TRAVTALK is printed, published and edited by SanJeet on behalf advice our readers that one or more recognised authorities for the purpose of fair review, provided two copies of the All advertisements must comply with the Indian and Inter- of DDP Publications Pvt. Ltd., printed at Modest Print Pack Pvt. Design: Nityanand Misra Ltd., C-52, DDA Sheds Okhla Industrial Area, Phase-I, New Sudhir Mudgal may hold different views than those reported. Material used same publication are sent to us for our records. Publications national Advertisements Code. The publisher will not be Delhi-110020 and published at 72, Todarmal Road, 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 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_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 6 2/19/2019 11:45:30 AM NTO FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 TRAVTALK 7 Fostering greater cooperation In an endeavour to achieve 646,000 arrivals from the Indian market by 2020, Tourism Malaysia is promoting greater awareness among tour operators and members of the travel fraternity about new with the Malaysian Home Af- destinations and products that the country has to offer. fairs Ministry and Immigration department to make the visa process seamless for Indians. Manas Dwivedi also have a slew of new excit- gramme for Indians travelling Travel Registration & Informa- ing products coming up.” to Malaysia from January 1 to tion (eNTRI), an online facility Further, the Deputy Minister alaysia is a value-for- December 31, 2019. Instead of provided by Government of of Tourism reiterated MiCE as Muhammad Bakhtiar Bin Wan Chik money destination with Malaysia has also recently obtaining a visa, travellers will Malaysia. On this, Chik said one of the focus areas in the Deputy Minister of Tourism M Arts and Culture, Malaysia many attractions to appeal to all introduced a visa waiver pro- need to register via Electronic that they are working together country’s tourism plans. segments of the Indian market, according to Muhammad Bakhtiar Bin Wan Chik, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Malaysia. “In 2017, we received around 25.9 million tourist arrivals from all over the world and India is among the top 10 tourist generating PDUNHWVIRU0DOD\VLD8QRIÀFLDO numbers from 2018 suggest that there was a rise of 7.5 per cent in the number of tourist ar- rivals from India in comparison to 2017. Last year, we wel- comed 594,098 Indian tourists. Consistent promotional efforts in the market and better air accessibility have contributed to this growth,” says Chik.

Along with ongoing efforts for better visa facilitation and vari- ous marketing and promotional activities lined up, Malaysia is looking forward to welcoming more Indian tourists. Com- menting on the growth from India, Chik is forecasting the QXPEHUWRULVHVLJQLÀFDQWO\+H says, “Malaysia has good air connectivity from India. Now, we have IndiGo plying from India too along with Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia and Malindo Air operating between India and Malaysia. Further, Malaysia Airlines has announced to reintroduce the Kochi route from Kuala Lampur with its LQDXJXUDOÁLJKWRQ0DUFK 2019. With better connectivity, we are now expecting more Indians to visit Malaysia. I hope the numbers continue to grow as we welcome to partner with travel trade, associations, travel agents and individuals.”

Talking about the interests of In- dian travellers in Malaysia, Chik informs that most travellers from India travel to Malaysia for shopping and visiting theme parks. “Malaysia has some amazing destinations including serene beaches, Sipadan Island and newly opened Desaru Coast. Indian visitors are also opting for Malaysia for wed- dings and honeymoons. We

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 7 2/19/2019 11:45:32 AM 8 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 NTO Bahrain eyes MiCE & weddings Offering a bit of everything to the Indian traveller, Bahrain is actively promoting MiCE and weddings in the country. In conversation with TRAVTALK, Yousef Mohammed AlKhan, Director of Marketing and Tourism Promotion, Bahrain Tourism & Exhibition Authority (BTEA), talks about his plans to tap the Indian market.

Manas Dwivedi from Bahrain Bahrain in 2018, the year has to offer to the Indian traveller. What are your promo- In last few years, Bahrain has convention centre that will been great in terms of growth Its rich culture, history, adven- Qtional plans to market emerged as a prime wedding have 10 exhibiting halls with How important is of tourism in Bahrain. Bahrain ture sports and activities, the country? destination due to various at- a total sqm of 95,000 and a Qthe Indian market for appeals to wide range of Indian amazing gastronomy and We have been proactively WULEXWHVOLNHWKHÁ\LQJWLPHIURP conference hall that can house Bahrain? What are your audience due to its hospital- various entertainment op- promoting weddings and MiCE ,QGLDDQGWKHQXPEHURIÀYH 4,000 people. plans to enhance your ity, family-friendly culture and tions make Bahrain a new by taking part in various trade star international hotel chains. presence in India? short travel time. In terms destination to look for in the fairs and wedding exhibitions. Amazing banquets and various With numerous weddings, of plans, we are proactively GCC. BTEA along with its Last year, we conducted venues for every event make corporate and MiCE groups to promoting Bahrain with travel it an appropriate destination to agents and tour operators to conduct Indian weddings. have a new destination in the Our rich culture, adventure sports and id you bucket list of every traveller. amazing gastronomy make Bahrain a new With regards to MiCE, Bahrain %DKUDLQKDVDQRIÀFHLQ,QGLD offers islands, beaches and to promote the destination destination to look for in the GCC desert areas as top locations and is investing heavily in the in order to tap the growing The region’s biggest wedding and MiCE sectors. UHSUHVHQWDWLYHRIÀFHVDUHYHU\ roadshows in Bengaluru and MiCE segment as well as the event, Formula 1 Gulf Air BTEA’s focus lies on attracting closely working with wedding Chennai. In order to tap the events market. The kingdom Bahrain Grand Prix 2019 more tourists from markets planners/MiCE agents and potential market, we are also is infrastructure ready with from March 28 to 31, is like India, UK, Germany, France tour operators to showcase involved in joint promotions convention centres, amazing set to be the landmark and Russia. the uniqueness of the destina- with travel agents. accommodation facilities th 15 edition of the desert tion. With an aim to increase and scenic locations that are race that promises What sets Bahrain arrivals by 2020, Bahrain is What is the prospect capable to host small, intimate to be a spectacular apart from other emerging as the new MiCE of promoting Bahrain to very large MiCE events. extravaganza of racing Q Q Middle Eastern countries? and wedding destination as an ideal destination Bahrain is building a new and entertainment Bahrain has a bit of everything from India. for wedding and MiCE? state-of-the-art exhibition and Additions to Eurail Pass Rail Europe announced the addition of Great Britain, Lithuania and Macedonia to its Eurail Global Pass this year, apart from new routes and ways to save.

TT Bureau cent cheaper. Note that Eurail travellers who wish to explore Global Passes purchased in a single country, the Eurail One ail Europe is offering 2018 will not be valid for use Country Pass is now available Rmultiple new and upgraded in Great Britain in 2019. for six days in one month. options for exploring Europe A Eurail Lithuania Pass and in 2019. The Eurail Global 7UDYHOOHUVHQMR\JUHDWHUÁH[LELO- Eurail Macedonia Pass are also Pass now features unlimited ity and do not need to decide new. Moreover, seniors aged rail travel in 31 countries, with upfront where to go. They can 60 and over receive 10 per the addition of Great Britain, begin travel within 11 months cent off the adult fare on any Eurail Global Pass or Eurail 2QH&RXQWU\3DVVIRUÀUVWDQG second-class travel.

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Those who wish to explore the Bernese Oberland region including Bern, Lucerne, Brig and Lithuania and Macedonia in of purchase and cover all mul- Emmental can now use 2019. A new pricing structure ti-country travel with a single the new Berner Oberland makes it a better deal as well. pass. To accommodate shorter Regional Pass for travel Compared to 2018 prices, itineraries, a new three days by rail, PostBus or boats Eurail Global Passes are now in one month Eurail Global on Lake Thun and Brienz permanently up to 37 per Pass has also been added. For

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 8 2/19/2019 11:45:35 AM TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 9 2/19/2019 11:45:39 AM 10 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 NEWS beckons Indian visitors Rolling out its latest campaign ‘2 20:20’, Taiwan is set to gain a strong foothold in India by organising roadshows across the country and establishing partnerships with tour operators and travel agencies to encourage Indian travellers to choose Taiwan as their next holiday destination.

TT Bureau the campaign means that we they ask for the availability of training programme through ruary next year,” he informed. want to achieve 20 per cent Indian food in Taiwan. At our which agents can learn about or Taiwan Tourism Bureau, growth by year 2020.” recent roadshow, we invited Taiwan,” he shared. While big MiCE movements FIndia is one of its focus an Indian chef who has lived in from India to Taiwan are on markets, and this was evident “We want the top tour operators Taiwan for more than 12 years Since MiCE is also an important the cards, direct connectivity at its recent roadshow in to promote Taiwan so that it be- and runs an Indian restaurant segment for Taiwan, Lin is limited to the destination. Delhi. Speaking about the Indian comes a popular tourist destina- there,” he insisted. shared that while organising Lin shared, “Currently, we only market, Trust HJ Lin, Director, tion among Indians. Right from have China Airlines operating Taiwan Tourism Bureau, said, Diwali to Christmas last year, we thrice a week between Delhi “From January to November had run a campaign at airports With only China Airlines operating thrice and Taipei. We are looking for 2018, Taiwan recorded 10.8 per and a seven-star theatre, apart Trust HJ Lin PRUHÁLJKWVEXWWKHWZRZD\ Director a week between Delhi and Taipei, we are now cent growth in Indian arrivals from displaying advertisements Taiwan Tourism Bureau WUDIÀFDWWKHPRPHQWLVOHVV to Taiwan against 4.2 per cent at shopping malls through working with airlines and tourism boards to than 6 lakh, a reason why growth in the previous year. which we focused on the top 2 Á\IRUFUXLVHRUWDNHDFUXLVH airlines cannot increase their We feel great to have recorded per cent,” he said. with a stop-over in Taipei,” have a two-city or stop-over in Taipei frequencies. Under these double-digit growth from India. Lin claimed. circumstances, we now coop- For 2019-20, our new strategy Most of the travel from India to Lin also informed that they have roadshows, they bring a differ- erate with different airlines and is ‘2 20:20’ — ‘2’ refers to our the island is business-related He is assured that the destina- been working with the travel ent MiCE DMC every time with tourism boards to have a two- focus on the top 2 per cent of due to the huge technology tion would appeal to Indian trade for a long time and are traditional DMCs for FIT. “We try city or stop-over programme higher-income travellers with market in Taiwan. “Business is travellers. However, he doubts undertaking many initiatives for and make a good package of in Taipei. We are working with a purchasing power to travel GHÀQLWHO\WKHSULRULW\VHJPHQW that the lack of Indian food in educating them. “We participate DMCs for Indian tour operators. Malaysian Airlines, Cathay RYHUVHDV7KHQWKHÀUVW¶· for us, followed by MiCE. Ad- Taiwan makes people think at travel shows around the In fact, at the Delhi roadshow, 3DFLÀF6LQJDSRUH$LUOLQHVDQG represents our aim to cooperate ditionally, Taiwan is the second twice before travelling to the country. We also conducted I have been told by one of the Scoot. I hope that the stopover with top 20 tour operators in cruise destination in Asia. destination. “Every time I talk a six-city roadshow this year. DMCs that a group of 435 pax and twin-city programme India while the second ‘20’ in Therefore, many Indians either to tour operators in India, Besides, we also have an online is set to come to Taiwan in Feb- increase in the future.” UDAN 3 promises enhanced links

Contd from page 3 were made available to the sion of tourism routes in coor- cost should be able to do ports. Elaborating about the airlines—Un-served routes dination with MOT. The second so. Thirdly, we are launch- water aerodromes, Prabhu but for routes which are connecting un-served/under- innovation is the inclusion ing seaplane operations for revealed that the destinations VSHFLÀHGE\WKHP027KDV served airports (RCS routes) of North East Region (NER) connecting water aerodromes. connected by seaplanes will in turn got the list of routes and Under-served routes routes. These are certain The fourth innovation is UDAN include Guwahati River Front, collated by interacting with connecting served airports, routes in the North East region International in which interna- Nagarjuna Sagar, Sabarmati tourism professionals, both which would be called tourism where Alliance Air had been WLRQDOÁLJKWVZLOOEHODXQFKHG River Front, Shatrunjay Dam, in the private sector as well routes. However, there will be Á\LQJWKDWZHUHJLYHQWRWKHP from Guwahati to Bangkok Statue of Unity and Umrangso as the government sector, no exclusivity of operations on nomination basis. Under and Guwahati to Dhaka.” Reservoir. “We are happy that including state governments for the airline as well as no UDAN 3, we have decided that under UDAN 3, a staggering and other stakeholders be- airport concessions. these routes should also be Under UDAN 3, 16 unserved 69 lakh new seats will be fore giving it to us,” he said. brought within the ambit of the airports, 17 underserved added. We are now set to Rajeev Nayan Choubey Choubey claimed that there bidding parameter so that any Former Secretary airports and six water aero- move into the next round As proposed by MOT, two are four new features in UDAN airline wishing to take those Civil Aviation dromes will be connected, that will be UDAN 3.5,” different types of routes ´7KHÀUVWRQHLVWKHLQFOX- routes at the lowest possible apart from 50 served air- he revealed.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 10 2/19/2019 11:45:40 AM AGENTS FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 TRAVTALK 11 Six years of success Jalesh to set sail from April 2019 As the bespoke travel company celebrates six years of wowing Indian travellers and helping them explore the world, it continues to invest in R&D and re-invent itself.

TT Bureau from others and etching its uniqueness on a canvas that aresh Koyande, Founder is replete with cookie-cutter Hand Managing Director, LWLQHUDULHV´2QHFDSÀWVDOO started World Travel Studio is passé and bespoke is the (WTS) in February 2013. Six way to go. Travellers are more years later, it is the proud recipi- informed and do recognise the ent of the ‘Best Tour Operator difference between a tour and ²2XWERXQG·E\,QGLD7UDYHO a holiday. We always design $ZDUGV²:HVWIRUIRXUVXF- the latter to great perfection, cessive years. Looking visibly EHÀWWLQJWKHSURÀOHWUDYHOKLV- Haresh Koyande ecstatic, Koyande says, “We are Founder and Managing Director tory and style of these clients very happy to be celebrating our started World Travel Studio and their repeat holidays with sixth anniversary this February. us to newer destination bears out this fact loud and clear,” Koyande shares.

The company’s focus is on providing fresh experiences With each passing year, we occasion as this? Receiving in popular destinations. “Our have grown and evolved congratulatory messages website has some exotic immensely. With all humility, from our esteemed and vast itineraries to choose from. We I owe this to my committed customer base is a celebration are also thankful to the tourism team, my valued clientele and and not to forget, we do party ERDUGVDQG'0&VZKRÀQGXV trade partners. I have deep hard to celebrate this journey.” most receptive in embracing gratitude for all of them. Who experiences and locations that Zen Cruises will launch India’s premium cruise line called ‘Jalesh’ on April 17, 2019 in Mumbai with the purchase RILWVÀUVWVKLSWKH3DFLÀF-HZHO²DWRQSDVVHQJHUVKLSIURP3 2$XVWUDOLD7KLVZDVUHYHDOHGE\ will not want to celebrate suc- The company has carved are trending much to the delight Jurgen Bailom3UHVLGHQW &(2=HQ&UXLVHVDWDSUHVVEULHÀQJLQ0XPEDL cess and that too on a special a niche by being different of the end user,” he adds.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 11 2/19/2019 11:45:43 AM 12 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 FAMILYALBUM attracts 165 countries FITUR 2019 became the global meeting point for tourism professionals and has once again become the leading trade fair for Latin America. The fair has grown 8.3 per cent and this year’s edition was its biggest ever with the participation of 886 stand-holder exhibitors and more than 10,487 companies from 165 countries and regions.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 12 2/19/2019 11:45:52 AM HOTELS FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 TRAVTALK 13 SunLux makes Sun City shine bright South Africa’s premium hotel brand – The SunLux Collection by Sun International Group – wants the Indian tour operators to patronise its 1,800-key Palace of the Lost City in Sun City again.

Hazel Jain Allaman also shared that properties. All properties adds, “We will conduct when agents book more have Indian chefs and Jain site inspections for the pread over 11,000 than one SunLux Collec- groups are allowed to bring trade. We did this several Shectares, the Palace of the tion hotel for a group, they their own chef. This year will years ago but it has evolved Lost City in Sun City, overlooks FDQUHDSÀQDQFLDOEHQHÀWV see the hotel group host op- and the product has also Sherene Allaman Vasudha Sondhi the Pilansberg Nature Reserve They can do this by weaving erators on educational tours changed, and the agents need Vice President—International Sales Managing Director and Marketing, Sun International Outbound Marketing in South Africa. It opened in the itineraries around these to their properties. Sondhi to see that.” 1992, making it more than 26 years old. This is why it has DOUHDG\VWDUWHGLWVÀYH\HDU plan in terms of renovation, says Sherene Allaman, Vice President—International Sales and Marketing, Sun International, who was in Mumbai recently as part of South African Tourism’s four-city roadshow.

While the property has been popular with Indian travellers, it was experiencing a dip in numbers from the India market. Allaman adds, “Last year was challenging for us as the tourist arrivals into South Africa witnessed a slight drop. However, we are already seeing the numbers rising with forward bookings. And we will be promoting all RXUÀYHSURSHUWLHVLQ6RXWK Africa with a special focus on Sun City as it is ideal for Indian visitors, specially big groups.”

Vasudha Sondhi, Managing Director, Outbound Market- ing, that promotes the group in India, agrees and adds, “The Sun City resort is per- fect for big groups, whether it is incentives or weddings. It has four properties in one resort. We need to ensure that the millennial traveller understands the property and knows all the activities that can be done there. We want to bring Sun City back into the limelight.”

The SunLux Collection also hosted an appreciation dinner for its trade partners in Mumbai. It currently has ÀYHOX[XU\SURSHUWLHVLQ 6RXWK$IULFD²7KH7DEOH Bay in Cape Town, The Boardwalk in Port Elizabeth, The Palace of the Lost City in Sun City, The Maslow Hotel Sandton and the one-year-old Maslow Times Square in Pretoria which opened in March 2018.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 13 2/19/2019 11:45:54 AM 14 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 NEWS TBO awards stars of the trade TBO Group recently organised its awards’ night and networking event in Delhi and Mumbai for its travel partners. More than 1600 trade partners, airline partners, tourism boards and government bodies attended the event in Delhi while 800 guests marked their presence in Mumbai. The event was a great networking platform that provided partners an opportunity to interact with TBO team members from India and its international offices across the globe.

More arrivals welcome Shannon Creado, Area Director—Sales & Market- ing, Banyan Tree Phuket, believes that direct air connectivity between India and Phuket will bring in good business for the property.

Anupriya Bishnoi not all that the property is looking to charm. Creado urrounded by a saltwater adds, “We have a grand new Slagoon, Banyan Tree ballroom that is going to be Phuket has been marketed opened by April, and with as the beachfront resort in that we hope to not just get Thailand’s island province. business clients for meet- With all-pool villas, the resort ings, but our target will also is just 20 kilometres from be the celebrations market Phuket International Airport that includes weddings, (HKT). Located just hours anniversary parties, birthday Shannon Creado from India by air, Phuket is a Area Director for Sales & Marketing celebrations, etc.” popular choice among many Banyan Tree Phuket of India’s holidaymakers. The To accelerate arrivals from recent move to begin direct with the direct connectivity. India, Creado says, “We are air connectivity between In- The new connectivity from in the process of appoint- dia (from Delhi and Mumbai) Delhi and Mumbai to Phuket ing our own representation and Phuket can only spell promises to get in more tour- in India. This will help us well for the two. Commenting ists, especially over understand the Indian market on how this will bode well for the weekend.” better in terms of what they the resort property, Shannon are looking for and the kind Creado, Area Director for The resort offers villas of customisation they need.” Sales & Marketing, Banyan for a luxurious stay, meeting Tree Phuket, says, “India is facilities for the corporate Creado also adds that the a very important market for traveller, and several F&B year 2019 looks very us. For Banyan Tree Phuket, options to all its guests. promising already, as the there are going to be new With a bouquet of offer- brand has quite a few hotels avenues that will be opened ings, the leisure traveller is in the pipeline.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 14 2/19/2019 11:45:59 AM AGENTS FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 TRAVTALK 15 Travstarz opens in Bali, Maldives Spreading its wings further, Travstarz Global Group has now opened an office in Bali and is set to launch another one in Maldives soon.

TT Bureau a lot of destinations along PRUHGUDVWLF7KHÀUVWWKUHH and new destinations. “With with Star Cruises and Dream quarters have been great as we our DMC network spreading ravstarz Global Group Cruises to our portfolio. In the have already over-achieved our wings, we hope to increase Tis undergoing many past three years, we’ve grown last year’s turnover by almost those numbers drastically. new developments, revealed 100-115 per cent year-on-year 50 per cent,” he shared. 2IFRXUVHWKHÁLJKWEXVLQHVV its Managing Director Pankaj each year. This time, after is going to improve but the Pankaj Nagpal Sucheta Nagpal Nagpal. “We have now the infusion of funds, we are He also claims that their focus focus will be on cruises.” Managing Director Director and CEO Travstarz Global Group Travstarz Global Group entered the cruise vertical and expecting the growth to be even ZLOOLQFUHDVLQJO\OLHRQÁLJKWV mentioned Nagpal. are working on a lot of other divisions, too, that are going to be announced soon. We have already announced the opening RIRXU%DOLRIÀFH/DVWPRQWK ZHRSHQHGRXU6UL/DQNDRIÀFH Now, we will soon be making a formal announcement of our Maldives centre,” he shared.

Sucheta Nagpal, Director and CEO, Travstarz Global Group, shared that all the new RIÀFHVZLOOKDYHDIXOOWHDPDQG transportation. “We have also launched a loyalty programme for our travel agents who have been working with us for years. It will be an exclusive programme for a few agents where they can log in and claim their rewards. We have another portal, trip2 islands.com, open to all our agents as most of them work with honeymooners and look for island destinations. Instead of sending us emails and going on ‘click on b2b’or ‘in.resb2b’, this year they are going to log in directly to trip- 2islands.com, where we have ready packages to be booked right away,” she informed.

Having witnessed great support from travel agents for cruises, she claimed that they are looking for this to continue for all the cruise brands, right from Singaporean cruises, Dream Cruises, Star Cruises and even Australian cruises.

For Nagpal, 2018 was a phenomenal year as the com- pany and its entire dynamics changed when Ctrip came on board. “That was a big boost to us not only in terms of funding but also in terms of technol- ogy and our reputation in the market. After that, we’ve added

id you

Travstarz over-achieved its last year’s turnover by almost 50 per cent

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 15 2/19/2019 11:46:01 AM 16 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 AWARDTALK Better reach with social media Striking a balance between traditional promotional strategies and digital media, winners from India Travel Awards and India MiCE Awards share views on the use of social media as an effective means of promotion.

TT Bureau

Best MiCE Organiser — Mach Conferences Fastest Growing MiCE Travel Agency — SKIL Laveena Bhatia, Director, Mach Conferences & Events be- Using social media platforms to showcase client testimonials lieves that social media has grown in functionality and has and services provided, Trishal Rao, CEO, SKIL opines that vis- changed the way brands interact with their target audience. ual content reaches and connects the best with people through “Along with having a website, we are expanding our online social media and helps the company get new clients. He men- outreach to social media platforms. Social networking sites tions, “A lot of newer generation companies have more online such as Facebook and Twitter are essential for maintaining presence and we believe in leaving a strong online footprint. a competitive edge. Companies that are not active on social Social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter and Linke- media handles risk, thereby missing out on numerous mar- dIn help us get in touch with a larger audience that we would keting opportunities. The user-generated content has become otherwise not be able to reach out to. Right from the younger a popular source of inspiration for modern travellers. Due to the generation planning for a camping trip to the older generation authenticity of user-generated or earned content, there has been a transformation in not only looking for a leisure trip, they all remember what they see in pictures on social platforms. It the travel buying process but also in the post travel exposure,” says Bhatia. has become a very important part of planning a trip.”

Best Organiser of Incentive Programmes- International — Best Travel Agency — Nextourism Ambassador Express Holidays Saurabh Sanghavi, Director, Nextourism feels that social media According to Saurabh Mahajan, Director, Ambassador Express today is the fastest medium of promotion. “Technology has made Holidays, Facebook and Instagram are the most important mediums things more transparent. Today, anyone can access social media, to showcase a brand effectively. “We use these platforms to distrib- anytime, anywhere, rather than traditionally going and meeting a ute information and attract the attention of potential clients interested travel consultant during initial inquiries. We are aggressively using all in those products. This has helped us increase the new customer the means of social media such as Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, In- base by 15 per cent YOY. Today, a lot of tourism boards and hotels stagram and LinkedIn. People are very conveniently getting to know are attracting people to offbeat destinations without having their about our current offers and it is also helping us in showcasing our representatives in the Indian market. Social media allows travel- services. We also post our best offers on social media platforms, lers to virtually experience destinations prior to actually visiting them,” he shares. which is giving us better results.”

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 16 2/19/2019 11:46:05 AM NTO Nepal enters Tier-II cities Having witnessed participation from over 700 trade partners, the eight-city Nepal Sales Mission 2019 organised by Nepal Tourism Board seeks to strengthen relationship with Indian travel trade and generate higher business for both the countries.

TT Bureau Fishtail Tours & Travels, Herit- age Tours & Travels and n an endeavour to tap the Outdoor Expeditions. Ilucrative Tier II, III markets and educate the trade about On organising the roadshows its key offerings, Nepal Tour- in Tier-II cities, Pokharel said, ism Board (NTB) organised “The purchasing capacity of roadshows in in Lucknow, every potential Indian traveller Agra, Jaipur, Bhopal, Indore, is increasingly on the rise. For Kochi, Coimbatore and Ma- this, we are looking to tap this for nature-based, pilgrimage durai. Nabin Pokharel, Man- market for the future growth and cultural tourism. There ager—Tourism Marketing & of Nepalese tourism. We are certain elements in Nepal Promotion, NTB said that India came to India to communicate cannot be found elsewhere as is its most important source to the Indian travel trade about it is blessed with many market. “Nepal recorded a Nepal as the right choice for enriched treasures,” he growth of 25.1 per cent in every kind of traveller where further explained. visitor arrivals from India in tourists can experience luxury 2017, attaining a remarkable with nature-based tourism. To further promote Nepal surge over the previous year. We want to create awareness among global travellers, the 17%KDVFRQÀUPHGUHFRUGLQJ about the tourism offerings government of Nepal and 200,438 visitors from India in of the country among NTB along with all the travel 2017. This data excludes the potential travellers.” trade partners of Nepal have number of Indian tourists who travelled to Nepal via road,” The Indian travel trade has already he said. started realising Nepal is a ‘value for money With an objective of educating the travel trade about the destination’. The country is ‘home away from country, the sales mission home’ for Indian travellers as they can travel successfully paved way for greater tourist movement international with domestic preparations from India to Nepal. In each city, keen buyers were able Pokharel hopes that more and launched the campaign ‘Visit to conduct meetings with the more Indian travellers will visit Nepal 2020’. The government Nepalese delegation, which Nepal in the coming days after of Nepal is working rigor- included several private play- the sales mission. “We are ously to ensure a successful ers such as Apoorva Tours & aggressively promoting Nepal tourism period till 2020. The Travels, Kathmandu Holiday in India and the Indian travel tourism board has set a target Tours & Travels, trade has already started of achieving two million tour- realising that the country is a ist arrivals in 2020. Currently, very good ‘value for money the country sees nearly one destination’. Nepal is ‘home million visitors annually, and away from home’ for Indian this is expected to double as travellers. An advantage for the board continues promot- them here is that they can ing the campaign. travel international with domestic preparations.” By 2020, the government plans to operate two new in- Busting the myth that ternational airports - Pokhara Nepal is only a good and Lumbini - and introduce destination for trek- the Airbus 330-200 to provide king and mountain- airline services to the grow- eering activities, ing number of tourists. The he says, “Nepal government also plans to run is an all-season Tribhuvan International Airport destination for an additional three hours and very from the regular 18 to ensure well known continued availability of

service to both incoming and outgoing tourists.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 17 2/19/2019 11:46:07 AM 18 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 FAMILYALBUM All routes now lead to Rome Celebrating its first year of successful operations between Rome and New Delhi, Alitalia awarded its top trade partners at a glittering ceremony in Delhi. The event was attended by stalwarts of the industry who networked over cocktails and dinner.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 18 2/19/2019 11:46:17 AM ASSOCIATIONTALK FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 TRAVTALK 19 IATO adds members IAAPI gears up for expo With a new chairperson at the helm for Maharashtra The association gets ready for its 19th expo in Chapter, the association focuses on adding more Mumbai that will showcase exhibitors from 20 members from the state and have a dialogue with countries and attract decision-makers from the the government about reducing the tax burden. amusement, hospitality and entertainment industries.

Hazel Jain ment Corporation to conduct TT Bureau attractions like bowling alleys more familiarisation tours and virtual sporting games, he new team of Indian for members. he Indian Association are attracting youth in large TAssociation of Tour Tof Amusement Parks numbers. This has helped in Operators (IATO) recently Sundaram reveals, “We are and Industries' (IAAPI) 19th generating employment as KHOGLWVÀUVWPHHWLQJDIWHU also looking at Tier-II, III cities. Amusement Expo, the biggest well,” Sharma concludes. Vasuki Sundaram, Chairperson But the fact is that we don’t re- B2B exhibition on sourcing for (Maharashtra Chapter), was ally need to go into the interiors the amusement and theme park The expo will witness a gather- RIÀFLDOO\VHOHFWHGLQ'HFHPEHU because agents have come to industry in South East Asia, will ing of over 142 exhibitors from 2018. Despite being relatively Mumbai to attend IITT where be held from March 6-8, 2019 India and 20 other countries, new in the position, Sundaram we had more than 130 people at Bombay Exhibition Centre, and will be spread across an has managed to hit the ground Vasuki Sundaram show interest in becoming our Goregaon (East). The exhibition Pradeep Sharma area of 10,000 square metres. Chairperson (Maharashtra Chapter) President running. She is clear in her Indian Association of Tour Operators PHPEHUV6RZHQHHGWRÀOWHU is supported by Ministry of IAAPI Participating countries include vision for the chapter and the these names and then choose Tourism, Government of India, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Dubai, DVVRFLDWLRQDQGWKLVLVUHÁHFWHG association and its members because IATO lays emphasis under its banner of ‘Incredible adrenaline. IAAPI can share France, Germany, Hong Kong, in the roadmap she has drawn at trade shows and exhibitions. on quality membership.” India’ and Madhya Pradesh a state-wise list of amusement Italy, Kuwait, Luxembourg, up. “Our focus area for this year “We want members to come Tourism as partner state. SDUNVZKLFKZLOOEHQHÀWWRXU Philippines, Poland, Russia, is increasing our membership. and participate in exhibitions operators when creating Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Speaking about how tour oper- travel itineraries.” The Netherlands, Turkey, UK We want to encourage members to bond DWRUVFDQEHQHÀWE\DWWHQGLQJ and USA. They will display this expo, Pradeep Sharma, Sharma also shares his views rides, equipment for amuse- with each other because strength lies in President, IAAPI, says, “We on upcoming trends in India, ment parks, theme parks, water recommend tour operators to which include virtual reality, parks, adventure parks and numbers. We also want our members to include at least a day’s visit trampoline parks, paint ball indoor amusement centres. attend more association meetings to an amusement or a theme and PUBG to name a few. park while creating itineraries. “Indoor and outdoor sporting We are hoping that members and bond with each other be- It is important to propose this arenas which include actual id you will come together and lay more cause strength lies in numbers. She is also keen on continuing because it encourages families dedicated play zone areas for emphasis on collaborating We also want our members to the dialogue with the state tour- with kids and youth who are football, cricket and golf is with each other. Members can attend more association meet- ism ministry on reducing the otherwise glued to gadgets witnessing growth along with get together and market the ings,” she adds. tax burden for the industry at to engage in physical activity high-thrill rides. Moreover, The Indian amusement product together. So there is large. “The hotels suffer more through outdoor games, rides highway dhabas and large industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of more more productivity and there is The chapter will conduct more as a room rate of `8,500 is and attractions which are restaurant chains are investing than 25% with the annual co-operation amongst them,” training sessions for its mem- hardly enough to cover the ex- educational and fun. Visit to in indoor amusement centres. revenue of around `2261 cr she says. EHUV²VRPHDORQJZLWK,QGLD pense for the hotel and they are the amusement park also The dedicated play zone creat- ($315 mn) in 2018 and is Tourism. IATO Maharashtra taxed on that. It becomes too helps foster bonding with ed for kids helps in generating estimated to grow to `6250 Another area that her team is Chapter is also working with expensive for us to then market families and friends, relieves additional revenue. In metros, cr ($884 mn) by 2022 working on is visibility for the Maharashtra Tourism Develop- India,” Sundaram adds. stress and provides a rush of sports bars, which offer Karlsruhe Tourism’s Mumbai session

Delegates from Karlsruhe Tourism, Germany were recently in Mumbai to conduct a knowledge session for members of the trade. Led by Hector Dsouza, India Representative, South West German Tourism, the interactive session was aimed at travel during the summer season.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 19 2/19/2019 11:46:20 AM 20 TRAVTRAVTALKTATALK FEBRUARYFEBRUARY 2ND FFORTNIGHTORTNIGHT IISSUESSUE 22019019 ATTRACTIONS

Unlock the gate to enlightenment

Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (MPSTDC) has undertaken a project to conceptualise, design and supervise the John Marshall Museum and Buddhist Theme Park in Sanchi. The museum will be established in an existing heritage building.

he objective of the project is to establish a museum in of the time which is uniquely displayed at Sanchi. Sanchi is a Tmemory of renowned archaeologist John Marshall and tranquil ode to the magnificent undying Buddhist faith. All the a Buddhist theme park representing the Sanchi site as well Buddhist monuments evoke the presence of Buddha and his as the philosophies of Buddhism through specially designed teachings. The cultural landscapes of Sanchi mark the broad immersive exhibits. The proposed concept and storyline en- concept for the Buddhist Theme Park at Sanchi. able its audiences to explore the social and cultural impact of the ancient past and get in-depth knowledge of the Buddhist Another component of the project is the John Marshall Mu- philosophy. Other important objectives are to work out a plan seum. Over the centuries, archaeologists have played a major to implement innovations in the landscaping components, role in documenting, studying and conserving the monumen- physical infrastructure, specific actions to increase visitation tal edifice at Sanchi. Marshall played a vital role in creating and develop staffing plan. an artistic monograph for Sanchi. Today, the site is under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of The concept revolves around the teachings of the Buddha. His India with the precincts being maintained by PWD and teachings lean on the religious and philosophical vocabulary horticulture department.

‡Sanchi - Sanchi is a Buddhist complex famous for its Great Stupa ‡Dev Kuthar (Rewa) - Deorkothar/Deur Kothar is known for its on a hilltop at Sanchi town in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. It Buddhist Circuit in MP Buddhist stupas and was discovered in 1982. These stupas are is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in 46 kms north-east of credited to the Mauryan emperor, Ashoka. Bhopal. It was originally commissioned by the emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. Its nucleus was a simple hemispherical brick ‡ Bharhut (Satna) : Bharhut, a village located in Satna district, is structure built over the relics of Buddha. known for its famous relics from a Buddhist stupa. ‡Great Stupa No 1 - During the later rule of the Shunga, the stupa Sanctioned components at Rewa and Satna - Interpretation centre was expanded with stone slabs to almost twice its original size. cum meditation hall, tourist reception centre, development and ‡Great Stupa No 2 & 3 - The stupas which seem to have been EHDXWLÀFDWLRQRI$SSURDFK5RDG commissioned during the rule of the Shungas are the second and then the third stupas. The relics of Sariputra and Mahamoggallana, ‡Dharmrajeshwar (Mandsaur) - Dharmrajeshwar is an ancient disciples of Buddha are said to have been placed in Stupa No 3. Buddhist and Hindu cave temple site of 4th-5th century in Sanctioned components at Sanchi– Development of Marshall House, Mandsaur district. It is an example of Indian rock- cut architecture, %XGGKLVW7KHPH3DUN7)&'HYHORSPHQW %HDXWLÀFDWLRQRI3DWKZD\ situated in Garoth tehsil of Mandsaur district at a distance of 4 km Light & Sound Show, etc. from Chandwasa town and 106 km from Mandsaur city. Sanctioned components at Mandsaur (Dharmrajeshwar) – Interpretation centre cum meditation hall, Approach road, premises ‡Satdhara & Sonari Stupas - Satdhຫra, around 14 km from ‡Gyaraspur and Murelkhurd - Gyaraspur is a small town of great development Sanchi, has around 20 stupas, many of which had been recon- historical importance, medieval period in Madhya Pradesh. This structed. The stupas here were the site for the relics of Ven Saripu- comes under Vidisha district and is 35 km away from Vidisha. The tra and Mahamogggallana, which are now in the Mahຫbodhi temple name is derived from a fair held during the eleventh month of the ‡Bagh Caves (Dhar) - The Bagh Caves are a group of nine at Sanchi; and the area around here is also associated with one of Hindu calendar. This is a small town and all the monuments can be rock-cut monuments situated among the southern slopes of the the Buddha's great disciples, Ven. Mahຫkaccຫyana who lived in the visited walking around. Vidhya’s in Bagh town of Dhar district. The caves were quarried Avanti area. in the 5th -6th century AD in the very late stages of Buddhism in ‡Murelkhurd - There are 37 stupas at Bhojpur (Pipalia) near India and long after most of the Indian Buddhist Caves had ‡Sonari - It is the archaeological site of an ancient monastic Murelkhurd on the top of hill. complex of Buddhist stupas. The site, positioned on a hill, is located been built. Sanctioned components at Satdhara, Sonari, Murelhurd & Gyaraspur- about 10 km southwest of Sanchi. The stupas were excavated Sanctioned components at Dhar - Tourist reception centre, Approach Development of last mile connectivity, meditation centre and around 1850 by Alexander Cunningham who discovered two boxes Road and premises development. containing relics. premises development.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 20 2/19/2019 11:46:24 AM ATTRACTIONS FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 TRAVTALK 21 Resounding yes to Yas Island Yas Island Abu Dhabi is developing into an independent destination on its own, especially with a focus on family and MiCE travel with new attractions like Warner Bros World.

TT Bureau

as Island is growing in Ypopularity as a destina- tion for Indians travelling to connect with APIs to integrate Abu Dhabi, and according to packages in their own offer- Marina Cipriano, Gen- ings. We are simultaneously eral Manager, Yas Island Abu working for the MiCE potential 'KDEL,QGLDLVRQHRIWKHÀUVW because we have a one-of- source markets for Yas Island a-kind destination with a lot

and Abu Dhabi. “Every year, Marina Cipriano of offerings unique for MiCE we see a lot of growth and re- General Manager events,” she said. newed interest from the Indian Yas Island Abu Dhabi market. In fact, visitation from In order to tap this segment, India increased by 20 per cent the experiences on the island Yas Island is strengthening in 2018. The booking pattern like Yas Mall, Yas Marina its team in India. “With our of Indian guests has changed Circuit, Yas Beach, Yas Links presence in Delhi and Mum- over the years. Earlier, they and everything that can cater bai, we recently opened an used to come for a day. The to the family,” she claimed. hotels on Yas Island and number of nights that Indians the Indian tour operators office in Bengaluru. We have opening of Warner Bros World have recently launched a B2B are choosing for Yas Island and travel agencies. “We a team on the ground that is Abu Dhabi in July 2018 has Indian travellers still prefer to portal where travel agencies as they begin to realise that conducted a few webinars for meeting with trade partners increased the total number of combine the destination with FDQÀQGSDFNDJHVWKDWLQFOXGH Abu Dhabi and Yas Island are travel agents in 2018 and we to explore and understand theme parks to three. Indians Dubai. Noticing a change in theme parks and rest of the destinations of their own,” will continue to organise mar- their necessities and share now tend to stay for two or this pattern, Cipriano says experiences on the island in she shared. keting activities in the country. all the relevant information three nights to make sure that they are taking steps to the future. We are already We are also expanding our on the destination to they make the most of all the ensure that people stay longer witnessing an increase in Cipriano wants to reinforce B2B portal and we give to customise a MiCE event theme parks as well as rest of at Yas Island. “We have seven the length of the stay or the their partnership with all our partners the possibility to they want,” she shared. Bringing China closer to India With the launch of a Beijing flight, Air China has managed to develop multiple business opportunities for travel companies in both countries. In keeping with this, Air China recently organised a training session for the travel trade in Mumbai on two unique products from China – Yangtze Gold Cruise and Top View Travels.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 21 2/19/2019 11:46:32 AM OPPORTUNITY

Media Partners:

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TTH Expo Ahmedabad 1-3

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Thailand MiCE Roadshow Hyderabad 6

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ITB Berlin 6-10

Thailand MiCE Roadshow Jaipur 8

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AccorHotels Showcase Mumbai 13

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IITE Bhubneshwar 15-17

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For more information, contact us at: [email protected]

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 22 2/21/2019 3:18:58 PM OPPORTUNITY FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 TRAVTALK 23

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 23 2/19/2019 11:46:35 AM 24 TRAVTALK FEBRUARY 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2019 MOVEMENTS Boeing Cygnett Hotels and Resorts Outbound Marketing Delhi Bangkok Delhi Boeing has named Salil Gupte as its India head, effective March 18, Cygnett Hotels and Resorts has appointed Bernard Houppertz as its Mamta Pall has been appointed as Group Director at Outbound 2019. Gupte succeeds Prat Kumar, who was appointed Vice President Vice President—Development & Operations, South Asia & Africa. He Marketing. In her current role, she will be responsible for the sales of DQG 3URJUDP 0DQDJHU RI %RHLQJ·V ) ÀJKWHU will be leveraging his expertise to help Cygnett Louvre Hotels Group in India. In addition to this, her aircraft programme in November last year. Gupte in formulating new developments to extend SURÀOH ZLOO DOVR LQFOXGH VDOHV IRU GLYHUVH KRWHO will join as President of Boeing India from the Cygnett’s reach in South Asian and African brands in the Outbound Marketing portfolio. aircraft maker’s wholly-owned subsidiary markets. He will also be responsible for Prior to this, Mamta was the Director of Boeing Capital Corporation, where he served streamlining operations in the territories Sales—South Asia for lebua Hotels & as Vice President. In his new position, Gupte mentioned above. Houppertz has Resorts and she brings with her 19 years of will advance the development and execution spearheaded operations and pre-openings experience in the industry. In the past, she has of Boeing’s strategy in India, integrate business for world-leading hotel groups been associated with Outbound Marketing activities across company's commercial along with private brands and previously during which she handled airplanes, Boeing defence, space properties. Prior to joining WKH*OREDO6DOHV2IÀFHIRU5RWDQD and security, its global services, Cygnett, he worked with Hotels in India. She has also and lead the growth and international hospitality held several senior management productivity initiatives in India. organisations. positions in companies like SOTC Kuoni, TUI and Uniglobe.

The Grand New Delhi Azaya Beach Resort Goa Renaissance Mumbai Convention Delhi Goa Centre Hotel The Grand New Delhi has announced the appointment of Pradipta N Azaya Beach Resort Goa has announced the appointment of Biswas as the new General Manager. An industry veteran with over Jaspreet Singh as its General Manager. With over a decade in Mumbai 24 years in the hospitality industry, Biswas the hospitality industry, Singh brings with Ritu Rana has been designated as the Director of Sales for brings with him a holistic experience him a deep understanding of the industry Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel and Lakeside Chalet, including pre-opening and expertise in after having worked at different hotels Mumbai - Marriott Executive Apartments. She revenue analysis, yield management across India. In his new role, he will be will be spearheading the sales functions of and sales and marketing. In his new accountable for offering guests cordial both the hotels. Prior to this, Rana was role, he will be in charge of overseeing hospitality and intuitive custom-made heading the corporate segment at The the transformation of The Grand New services that Azaya aspires for. Prior to this, Westin Mumbai Garden City. She has over Delhi. An alumnus of Presidency College, Singh, in the capacity of Commercial eight years of experience in the hospitality Bengaluru, he possesses an 'LUHFWRU ODXQFKHG WKH ÀUVW industry, involving business planning in-depth understanding of the Andaz hotel in India, adding and leadership development. She was Delhi-NCR market coupled to Hyatt’s luxury lifestyle actively involved in strategy formulation, with sound knowledge of collection of 15 other management acquisition and hotel operations. Andaz hotels worldwide. retention management.

The Oterra Bengaluru Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty Guideline Travels Bengaluru Kochi Bengaluru Ajinkya Kulkarni has been promoted as the Director of Sales and Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty has designated Rashmi Kamboj as its Guideline Travels Mumbai has appointed Nagesh Babu B as Marketing at The Oterra Bengaluru. Prior to this, he was working Director of Convention Sales. She will provide leadership, strategise Manager Sales for South India. He joins the company with a vast with the Crowne Plaza Bengaluru as Director of and drive the convention business of Lulu Bolgatty experience of 22 years in the travel industry serving Sales. Kulkarni started his career with Estique International Convention Centre, adjacent to the B2B vertical at various positions held in Hotels in Pune and then moved to Oakwoods. Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty. With over two reputed companies. In his new role, Babu will He has over 10 years of work experience decades of experience in the convention take care of southern India sales for Guideline in sales. Kulkarni holds a degree in hotel and hotel industry, Kamboj has been part Travels, which is also a PSA for leading cruise management from IIHM Pune and has many of leading brands such as Taj, Marriott and brands. He started his travel journey with awards and accolades under his wings. the Hyderabad International Convention Travel Tours in Bengaluru in 1996 as frontline Centre. A Hotel Management graduate, staff and in 2008 moved to TAReps (Division Kamboj’s last assignment was with of TTG) as Sales Manager (Karnataka). He KW Conferences, one of the later joined Cruise Club in 2016 where leading professional conference he was responsible for promoting organisers in India, as Head of Ocean Cruises, River Cruises Marketing and Sales. and Expedition Cruises.

Sachin Shet, General Manager, Alila Diwa Goa relaxes Ranjan Banerjee, General Manager, Crowne Plaza For Mizan Uddin, Hotel Manager, ibis Kolkata Rajarhat, by spending time with his family, listening to music and Today New Delhi Okhla, is an avid reader and a frequent leisure time is mostly a creative time. “I add on to the playing outdoor games. “I am most passionate about traveller. “Not many people know that I love playing interiors of my house by creating something new is food and adventure sports. I have badminton along with my daughter out of waste. On some occasions, even completed full marathons. RQ6XQGD\VDQGWKDWLVGHÀQLWHO\ I visit institutes to share my take I also enjoy travelling. Most of the best part of my week. on the hospitality industry. my holidays are memorable, Besides, I love travelling to My love for travel has helped but my trip to Udaipur and offbeat places and experience me to explore newer local Tuscany were the best so far. nature and cultural heritage destinations,” he reveals. That makes Udaipur one of my closely. I am also very fond For Uddin, ‘the road less favourite holiday destinations RI UHDGLQJ ÀFWLRQ ZLWK $\Q travelled’ has always caught within India. Outside the country, Rand as my go-to writer and his attention as he strongly feels it has to be Florence in Italy. My philosopher,” he mentions. the joy of exploring the less favourite cuisines are Banerjee recalls beaten tracks is Goan, Thai and fond unparalleled. Italian,” he memories says. from his trip to New Zealand.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 24 2/19/2019 11:46:42 AM TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 25 2/19/2019 11:46:43 AM AVIATION Spice zing to int’l UDAN routes SpiceJet turned out to be the biggest winner of routes in Ministry of Civil Aviation’s (MoCA’s) ambitious UDAN 3, with around 24 proposals being awarded. Ajay Singh, Chairman and MD, SpiceJet, shares the details and gives insights into the future of Indian aviation.

Nisha Verma bid for two routes from Guwa- Singh further added, “Spice- Singapore, etc. We also need hati to Bangkok and Guwahati Jet is the largest player in the to create global airlines in India he UDAN routes would WR'KDND²ERWKRIZKLFKKDYH UDAN scheme. We already and for that to happen, we need Tinclude two routes for been awarded to us.” have 23 operating routes un- WRKDYHDOHYHOSOD\LQJÀHOG water aerodromes as well der UDAN 1 and 2 and we will Apart from providing funds as two international routes. He believes that seaplane be starting another 20 routes for airports infrastructure and Talking about the seaplane operations is an innovative under UDAN as soon as the additional funds for UDAN, the operations, UDAN 3 and project, considering the dearth airport infrastructure is ready. primary focus for the govern- international operations as of airports and time taken to Even in UDAN 3, the largest ment should be to bring down part of the scheme, Ajay build them. “Seaplanes is a number of routes have been the cost of Aviation Turbine Fuel Singh, Chairman and Manag- unique idea because it takes awarded to SpiceJet. Not only (ATF),” he demanded. ing Director, SpiceJet, says, time to build airports and it’s is this scheme commercially “It was an experiment that not always easy to get land viable but is also increasing He agreed that stability of the international destinations to build them. We should use connectivity across India.” rupee against the dollar and the would also be included under water bodies as they exist UDAN. The state governments in large numbers throughout had approached the central our country to take tourists to Apart from providing funds for airports government for assistance destinations. The beginning infrastructure and additional funds with the bidding process has already been made with for international proposals of water aero- for UDAN, the primary focus for the UDAN. Assam dromes and SpiceJet LVWKHÀUVW Á\LQJVHDSODQHVLQ government should be to bring down the state which Assam, Gujarat and cost of Aviation Turbine Fuel has come the Andamans. It’s forward with a great start and Aviation is one of the shining slight cooling off of crude oil this initia- we will see how it sectors of the Indian economy, prices have certainly improved tive. For this, fares in the future,” points out Singh. “We have the situation. “The situation has SpiceJet has he added. been growing at 20 per cent improved dramatically from every year. India is the fastest what it was a few weeks ago. growing aviation market in Even airlines such as SpiceJet the world. It has been our are adding new planes that are longstanding request that what technologically advanced and India really needs is to create consume less ATF. We also international global hubs in the hope that airlines will work country as opposed to shipping together to ensure that yields our hubs to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, are higher,” he shared.

Plans for long haul With Indians increasingly wanting to travel overseas at a UHDVRQDEOHFRVWPRUHLQWHUQDWLRQDOÁLJKWVDUHVHWWREHUROOHGRXW SpiceJet has added the Max aircraft, which has a longer range than other aircraft. Having such an aircraft would allow SpiceJet WRÁ\WRPDQ\PRUHGHVWLQDWLRQVEH\RQGWKHH[LVWLQJRQHV$VD consequence, SpiceJet will be looking at many more international ÁLJKWV7KHDLUOLQHZDQWVWRVWDUWZLWKLQWHUQDWLRQDOÁLJKWVXVLQJ LWVQDUURZERGLHGDLUFUDIWDVLWLVWKHPRVWHIÀFLHQWDQGFRVW effective way. As far as wide-bodied planes are concerned, the airline will keep exploring and examining its options.

TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 26 2/19/2019 11:46:47 AM TT_February-2nd-2019_FINAL FILE-13-02-2019.indd 27 2/19/2019 11:46:49 AM 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: 15-2-2019

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