Vol. XXXII Issue 6; March 2nd fortnight i ssue 2020 A DDP PUBLICATION Pages : 28 ` 20/- pl.com p ddppl.com TravTalkIndia.com Scan & Share

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 1 3/17/2020 10:53:47 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 2 3/17/2020 10:53:51 AM Vol. XXXII Issue 6; March 2nd fortnight i ssue 2020 A DDP PUBLICATION Pages : 28 ` 20/- ddppl.com TravTalkIndia.com

Airport screening tightened Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of State (I/C), Civil Aviation, has advised travellers to voluntarily get themselves checked for COVID-19, in case they have any symptoms of the disease, which has now been declared a pandemic.

Nisha Verma gone as a tourist or have come taking all external precautions Defence, External Affairs, Civil to India as part of a tour group, If someone needed, and the cabinet sec- Aviation, Home, Textiles, Com- ddressing a press confer- if they have symptoms, they came in before the retary is taking meetings every merce, Pharmaceuticals and Aence on the COVID-19 should get themselves checked. universal checking of all day. Under the overall control other officials, including State issue, Hardeep Singh Puri While the number of cases of of PMO, and the PM personally, Chief Secretaries. Each of these revealed that screening of pas- COVID-19 in India is not very passengers started, they we have two groups—one is a groups meet many times to take sengers coming from all parts high, we can’t afford to take should come forward in group of ministers headed by stock of the situation. It’s a case of the world is currently being chances. If someone came in Dr Harsh Vardhan, of which I where all parts of the govern- carried on at 30 Indian airports before the universal checking case of symptoms am a member. There is another ment are active and in 24-hour and 6,49,452 passengers had of all passengers at airports group headed by the Cabi- contact with each other. He in- been screened till March 6, started, they should come for- been identified already, and if net Secretary, which is taking sisted that all concerned agen- Hardeep Singh Puri 2020. He said, “My advice to ward for a check in case of any they show any signs, they will regular meetings with all related cies are working in cooperation Minister of State (I/C) everyone, whether they have symptoms. Some people have be immediately tested. We are ministries including Health, with each other. Civil Aviation MOT voices trade concern on TCS Rupinder Brar, Addl. Director General (ADG), , shares that they are voicing the industry's concerns on TCS to Finance Ministry and updating their website on COVID-19.

TT Bureau lated advisories on their website tle harsh and it’s for us to voice Apart from that she agreed that which clearly gives out the status for travellers and tour operators. the concerns of the industry. We COVID-19 issue and its effect on of COVID-19 for anyone planning upinder Brar says that while have done that and we will con- is serious. “We have been a trip to and from India. Also, I RMOT is taking up the issue of She shared, “On behalf of the tinue our dialogue with the MOF putting out all the advisories that should say that the screening TCS with the Ministry of Finance, tour operators, we are definitely to find a common dialogue and have been brought out by the at the airports and sea-ports is Rupinder Brar they are also updating informa- bringing it before the Ministry of see how we can resolve the con- Ministry of Health and Ministry of robust to ensure that the spread Additional Director General Ministry of Tourism tion regarding COVID-19 and re- Finance that this measure is a lit- cerns of the tour operators.” External Affairs on our website, can be avoided,” she said.

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 3 3/17/2020 10:53:53 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 4 3/17/2020 10:53:55 AM BULLETIN IATO elections on April 25 The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has announced its biennial elections, which will take place on April 25, 2020 at 10:30 am at The Ashok , New Delhi. The last date for filing nominations is March 19.

Manas Dwivedi The nomination form for con- bureau is working to formulate testing the elections can only a new mechanism for passes t the recently held interac- be proposed and seconded and sought support of IATO in Ative luncheon meeting of by active members. Only the training the applicants of the IATO, Rajesh Mudgill, Hony authorised person, who is rep- passes. Apart from this, IndiGo Secretary, IATO shared de- resenting the company in IATO, has introduced daily non-stop tails about the association’s would be eligible to propose, flights on Agra-Varanasi, Agra- upcoming elections. “The last second or contest for the elec- Bhopal and Agra-Lucknow route date for filing the nominations tions,” said Mudgill. w.e.f. March 29, 2020. Mem- is March 19, 2020, while the bers are requested to make use withdrawal of nominations In addition, Pronab Sarkar, President, IATO, said, “The Bu- of these new flights and can be done latest by 3 pm on President, IATO, addressed the reau of Civil Aviation Security, promote IndiGo.”

IATO also invited SC Kamra, Advocate and GST Consultant for IATO, for clearing doubts and queries of members on tax-related issues and inform them about the new TCS pro- posed by the Finance Minister in the Union Budget 2020-21. The amendments will be effec- tive from April 1, 2020.

According to a formal docu- ment by IATO, as per the de- cision of the Annual General March 24, 2020. The Return- members and shared the high- Government of India, has ex- Meeting, the provisional ac- ing Officer for the election is lights about his two consecu- tended the validity of Airport En- counts for the financial year Akshay Kumar, CEO, Mercury tive terms. Sharing updates on try Passes for tour operators till 2019-20 will be presented by Himalayan Explorations, and all airline-related matters, valid- March 31, 2020. No new pass- the Chartered Accountant for further correspondence for the ity of Airport Entry Passes and es will be issued till the time approval of the general body elections will be made by him. other issues, Rajiv Mehra, Vice new guidelines are issued. The before election begins.

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 5 3/17/2020 10:53:58 AM GUESTCOLUMN The business of sales calls Follow-ups for salespeople is the best tool for converting a sales call into business. While VIEWPOINT most sales professionals give up after three to four follow-ups, it would be interesting to note that one can actually close a deal after the fifth follow-up. TCS remains a stress Follow-ups close more sales Nine out of 10 salespeople, who most salespeople would tell you, Microsoft Exchange or Of- If you are a sales professional, were asked this question, said in majority of cases, the messag- fice 365 (If that is where your he outbound travel market is leaving no stone whether in inbound space or do- it slipped their mind or they just es that they send for follow-ups email is hosted). Most of these Tunturned to convince Government of India ing corporate sales, emails form forgot. There are excellent solu- are repetitive and similar in na- tools also have email tracking that the newly introduced TCS 206 (C) section a major part of your daily life. Sel- tions for doing your sales follow- ture. By writing a pre-configured built-in to let you know when dom do we get to close sales by sequence to be sent on set days, your email has been read. You would sabotage their business. Travel agents and sending a single email. if the prospect does not reply, also get a free trial to check outbound tour operators are running from pillar to Data suggests, and attaching it to your email, these tools out. post in order to give their representation to various We send an email and we wait for most sales professionals you can set it and forget it. ministries and government bodies, to make them a revert. If we don't get one, we (The views expressed are the follow up. Follow-ups, despite be- give up after 3-4 follow The sales follow-up tool works author's own. The publication may understand what they stand to lose in a scenario ing the most boring part of a sales ups and conversions on reply detection. Until it does or may not subscribe to the same.) if this tax regime comes into effect. The Ministry routine, is the most critical. usually happen after not detect a reply, it would keep of Tourism is also working to communicate the on following up, or till such time As data suggests, most sales the fifth one. There are that the sequence finishes off. issue to the Ministry of Finance. However, no professionals give up after 3-4 excellent solutions for I usually recommend a 10-step response has come from the finance ministry as follow-ups and conversions usu- sequence spread over 3-4 weeks sales follow-ups yet. Travel trade is pushing the envelope in every ally happen after the fifth one. in most of the cases. The question naturally arises way possible — right from social media to calling why sales professionals give up on autopilot. It is a set it-forget Most of these tools have been up on follow-ups when they it way and it brings results. Sales designed to work on G Suite/ Vishal Mehra out SOS meetings of associations and going Managing Partner - Acquisitions for multiple visits to government offices. The are so critical to closing sales? follow-ups can be automated. As Gmail and some do work with Roaring Representations point they want to put forward is that while the package cost will increase by 10-15%, they will also lose their business to foreign companies and OTAs. While there is still time for the Budget to be Hotel industry takes a hit officially implemented, the travel trade is hopeful of getting some relief. January 2020 witnessed a month-on-month drop in ADR, occupancy and RevPAR according to HVS’ monthly newsletter titled ‘ & Hospitality Overview India’. Both ADR and RevPAR fell short by more than two per cent, month on month.

Will domestic travel soar? Going by HVS ANAROCK’s recent analysis on the hotel sector in India in a report titled ‘Hotels & Hotel Sector Jan M-o-M Y-o-Y HO has officially declared coronavirus or Hospitality Overview India’, in the month of January Key Stats (Top 13 Markets in India) 2020 (%) (%) 2020, while ADR for the top 13 markets in India WCOVID-19 as a pandemic, a bigger reason stood at approximately `6,560, average RevPAR ADR `6,560 -2.09 0.83 why governments around the world are advising was recorded at `4,620. Occupancy 70.5% -0.15 0.50 their citizens to avoid international travel for safety Occupancy for the month stood at 70.5 per cent. concerns. While India remained comparatively The report also notes that all three indicators – RevPAR `4,620 -2.23 1.34 ADR, occupancy and RevPAR – had dropped unaffected till earlier this month, the travel in the month-on-month analysis, all three had industry, including the Ministry of Tourism, is gained in a year-on-year comparison, though Leading & Trailing Markets marginally so. pinning its hope on domestic travel under the RevPAR (Y(Y-o-Y) o Y) ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ banner. However, in the last Leading & trailing markets 15 days, cases in India are on a rise across many The year-on-year analysis of the 13 markets in India reveals that Chandigarh and Kochi recorded regions, which has now diminished the scope growth in RevPAR at 18.1 per cent (standing at of domestic travel as well. However, domestic `3,715) and 11.4 per cent (standing at `4,120), respectively. Ahmedabad and Bengaluru wit- airlines are still trying to lure people to travel by nessed a drop in RevPAR numbers by 15.9 offering discounts and offers every day. In fact, per cent (standing at `3,380) and 8.1 per cent with India closing its borders for travel to and from (standing at `4,740), respectively. the country, domestic travel remains the most Hotel performance in India was muted in the month of January 2020 primarily viable option for everyone. The point of contention because of some political unrest in the country here is how much people are willing to travel in as well as news of the COVID-19 outbreak. times where they are even scared of stepping out Chandigarh, however, witnessed double-digit RevPAR growth primarily due to increased of their homes? demand from M!CE. Source: HVS - Hotels & Hospitality Overview India

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FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 6 3/17/2020 10:53:59 AM ASSOCIATIONS MARCH 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 TRAVTALK 7 pulls out all stops for TCS An OTOAI delegation led by President Riaz Munshi made a representation to Rupinder Brar, ADG, Ministry of Tourism and presented a detailed letter on TCS.

Manas Dwivedi at a time when the industry a serious crisis of COVID-19 is reeling under crisis and scare and airlines, hotels, TOAI is working hard to can ill afford. This would logistics and transportation Oincrease the dialogue with rather result in heavy slow- and all other related busi- concerned authorities to dis- down of their business affect- nesses are facing a huge crisis, cuss the matter of TCS and ing employment instead. The with layoff of workers and (From L-R): Shravan Bhalla, Riaz Munshi, Guldeep Singh Sahni and Raghuvinder Singh with Rupinder Brar, ADG, Ministry of Tourism apprise them about the con- new provision has come at the negative growth in the indus- tour operators may be forced and employment. Such an ex- kitty at a huge cost to the busi- sequences of the tax regime worst possible time, when the try,” said Munshi in the letter. to close down their business, ercise can, at best, contribute ness and is wholly avoidable,” on the outbound travel market. world economy is reeling under “In such a scenario, many resulting in loss of business a very small amount to the he further said. After making the first represen- tation regarding the TCS amend- ments proposed in the Finance Bill 2020, an OTOAI delegation called upon the Ministry of Tourism to apprise them about the situation and consequenc- es of TCS on the outbound tourism market.

The representation was well re- ceived by the ADG and she has assured that OTOAI’s represen- tation will be forwarded to Min- istry of Finance, Government of India, with Ministry of Tourism’s recommendations.

Such an exercise can, at best, contribute a very small amount to the kitty at a huge cost to the business and is wholly avoidable

In the letter presented to Brar to withdraw the provisions of TCS on tour operators, OTOAI said that in their business, competi- tion is huge, margins are very thin, and there are lots of uncer- tainties. “This additional burden would impose huge costs, would require deployment of extra staff, maintenance of accounts, filing of returns and then matching all the figures. All these requirements require capacity building, developing capability incurring huge costs,

IMEX Frankfurt, one of the largest annual trade exhibitions for the meetings, conventions, events and incentive travel industry, has been cancelled, due to the coronavirus outbreak.

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 7 3/17/2020 10:54:01 AM 8 TRAVTALK MARCH 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 ASSOCIATIONS COVID-19: Impact and recovery Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality (FAITH) has been regularly sharing updates with the Ministry of Tourism (MOT) and Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on the impact of COVID-19 on the industry. The association recommends the utilisation of this time for creating a tourism strategy revival.

Nisha Verma ments - inbound, outbound and YForward bookings for Octo- travelled outside in 2019 and there Most MNCs are advising work Y Working capital of most tour- domestic, and almost all tourism ber 2020-March 2021, which were almost 1.8 billion domestic from home. ism corporates is hit by almost AITH has written to MOT verticals - leisure, adventure, should have started picking up, tourist footfalls. The December 60% and for micro, small and Fand the PMO to apprise the heritage, M!CE, cruise, corporate aremuted. These are showing season of 2019 took an Y Cruise tourism of all kinds has medium tourism enterprises by government on the effects of and other niche segments. The highly discouraging signs with estimated hit of almost 40-50%; come to a complete standstill with almost 80%. Margins are nil or the COVID-19 outbreak till now, whole tourism value chain across cancellations of important global the holiday season of April to no clearances. negligible in many cases. and has been sending updates hotels, travel agents, tour op- travel marts, which are market- July 2020 is likely to take a hu- to them almost every fortnight erators, destinations, , places for contracting for the Y Unexpected no-shows are If there ever was a time for the since the outbreak was declared family entertainment venues, as next season. happening and most group Central and state governments a global emergency. well as air, land and sea transpor- meetings and celebrations have and the tourism industry to stand tation has been affected.” YThe value of NRI segment from been cancelled. Even eating out together, this is it. The employees, The letter reads, “This is one of developed markets, whose major at restaurants is coming under managers and entrepreneurs are the worst crisis ever to hit the The letter also mentions: season for visit is families and serious pressure. bravely fighting for survival at the Indian tourism industry, impact- Y Inbound tourism of more than relatives, is around 60% during front line and need an umbrella ing all its geographical seg- $28 billion in value accounts for April to September. There are re- Y To save on variable costs and cover of relief and support from almost 60-65% of the total be- ports of large-scale forward can- minimise fixed costs, many small the Central and state government. This will be the time for tween October and March. As cellations from these, and unless and mid-sized hotels, and Once the virus stops progressing the news of the virus started the progression of the virus stops, mongous hit, too, which could be car rental companies are shutting and as the domestic traveller will India to start its global picking up from November, the almost the entire value for the re- as high as 80-100% unless down operations and asking staff start returning upon seeing such tourism strategy revival percentage of cancellations in mainder of 2020 season is at risk. there is positive news of the to go on leave without pay. confidence-building measures, and target even those this segment started going up progression of the virus de- the global traveller will also be exponentially, and is reaching a Y The holiday season of Indians, creasing. There are advanced Y Most Indian travel and hos- enthused. This will be the time tourist source peak of almost 80% in March both for travelling within the coun- cancellations and highly reduced pitality companies are facing de- for India to start its global tour- markets that were in many Indian locations. The try and outside it, is heavy from forward-booking pipelines for the mands for full refunds and they ism strategy revival and target value at risk from this segment April to July and from October holiday season. Only corporates are doing so out of their cash re- even those tourist source mar- travelling to our will be in multiples of tens of to December. More than 28 mil- are flying and that, too, only on serves, even for which they have kets that were travelling to our competing nations thousands of crores. lion Indians are estimated to have highly essential same-day travel. paid advance tax & GST. competing nations.

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 8 3/17/2020 10:54:03 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 9 3/17/2020 10:54:05 AM 10 TRAVTALK MARCH 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 EXHIBITIONS ITB starts processing refunds All regular visas to India suspended till 15th April David Ruetz, Head, ITB Berlin, shares that the cancellation of the prestigious event was unfortunate, but refunds will be processed. Also, a new networking platform— itb.com has been Genting Dream to start sailing out of launched to offer digital services 365 days a year for the travel industry around the world. Singapore from 27th March Nisha Verma announced, which has resulted according to the recom- He feels that the tourism in- Hence, at the forward-look- in losses. Ruetz shares, “The mendation or instruction dustry needs ITB more than ing events of the ITB Virtual TB Berlin, the prestigious an- booth designers usually start of the relevant authorities. ever. “ITB is offering digital , leading speak- Mayfair to open Inual travel trade event held working one week prior to the Only these authorities have services 365 days a year by ers from ITB will be discuss- India’s first boutique in Germany, was cancelled show. By the time the cancel- the necessary information launching itb.com. We are ing how the world’s travel tea in Siliguri for the year 2020 in the wake lation was announced, 40 per- establishing a completely industry can harness intel- in 2020 of the coronavirus outbreak. cent of the stands had already new networking platform for ligent strategies to make There were a lot of questions been constructed. We are ex- the world’s travel industry. sure it remains future-proof,” ATM postponed; new emerging after the show was pecting considerable damage shared Ruetz. dates from June 28 to cancelled, especially regard- overall, not only for us as a July 1, 2020 ing the refunds and rental fee. trade fair company, but also for ITB is offering He added, “We also Addressing the matter, David Berlin and the entire travel in- wanted to give our partners Ruetz, Head, ITB Berlin, says, dustry. Due to the timing of the digital services the opportunity to commu- Kerala records “For all main exhibitors of ITB cancellation, we ask for your 365 days a year by nicate about all the events 1.96 crore domestic Berlin 2020, the advance pay- understanding that all detailed launching itb.com. they have been planning for and foreign arrivals ment of the stand rental fee, questions regarding ITB Berlin the week (4-8 March) away David Ruetz in 2019, highest exhibitor tickets and AUMA and its subsidiaries must be Head, ITB Berlin We are establishing from the Berlin Exhibition since 1996 fee will be refunded. All trade checked first.” a new networking Grounds. Exhibitors were visitor passes for ITB Berlin asked to send us the infor- platform for the world’s HICSA postponed; ordered and paid via the ITB Many people from the and expertise to draw the mation about their planned to be held from July Berlin ticket shop will be re- industry feel that the deci- right conclusions. The respon- travel industry event. Everyone who had funded. The same applies to sion to call off the show was sible public health authority of news to share with the in- 22-23, 2020 the public visitor tickets of ITB taken too last minute. Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf dustry at ITB Berlin 2020 was Berlin 2020.” However, Ruetz feels, “Messe of Berlin had greatly in- It spans a bridge between asked to share the messag- TUI offers benefits Berlin has been pointing creased the requirements for real-life meetings and digital es on Instagram, LinkedIn, worth `4,000 for The booths at the exhibition out for weeks that the deci- holding the event in the early networking, and features inno- Facebook or Twitter using the Maldives were already under construc- sion to hold or cancel major evening (18:27 pm CET, Feb- vative tools for business, net- hashtag: #whatwewanted- tion when the cancellation was events can only be made ruary 28, 2020).” working and exclusive content. tosayatITB.” 140 buyers at The fifth edition of the Bengal Travel Mart was a brilliant showcase for the promotion of tourism destinations in the state and its neighbouring countries as well.

Vani Sunder and West Bengal in particular. Pradesh & Odisha, Sikkim were Sandipan Ghosh, General the state participants. Nepal eld at Montana Vista in Sil- Secretary, Eastern Himalaya Tourism Board, Pokhara Tour- Higuri, West Bengal, from Travel & Tour Operators Asso- ism Council, Tour Operators As- February 22-24, 2020, the ciation (EHTTOA), said, “What is sociation of Bangladesh were the event brought together tourism encouraging is that for the first international partners, while IATO, stakeholders from pan India, time, we have participation in ADTOI, ETAA, JTWA were the as- including West Bengal and its big numbers from Nepal and sociation partners of the event. neighbouring states like Nepal, Bangladesh. This would further The highlight of the event was Bhutan and Bangladesh. Around give a boost to cross-border the signing of a MoU between 120-140 buyers from across tourism promotion.” EHTTOA (Eastern Himalaya

India gathered at this event that Major hotel chains like Marriott, Travel and Tour Operators Asso- hosted 80 to 90 domestic and 40 MayFair, Sterling Holidays, Sum- ciation) and TOAB (Tour Opera- to 50 international buyers from mit Hotels, Waxpol, Golden Ho- tors Association of Bangladesh) Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh, tels, Pride Hotels, Jagjeet Hotels to promote cross border tour- and some European nations who and Resorts, Yangthang Group of ism. The mart also focused on got an opportunity to interact with Hotels, Pine Tree Group, Anand promotion of homestays, which the local stakeholders of the east- Palace, were present at the event. have mushroomed across North ern Himalaya region in general, Bengal, Gujarat, Tripura, Madhya Bengal and Sikkim.

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 10 3/17/2020 10:54:08 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 11 3/17/2020 10:54:10 AM 12 TRAVTALK MARCH 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 FAMILYALBUM Singapore & Sheeraz woo UP Singapore Tourism Board along with Sheeraz Tours organised a product update session in Lucknow, which witnessed the attendance of over 100 tour operators and agencies from Lucknow, Kanpur and Prayagraj. The event was supported by TripShapers.com, Resorts World Singapore, Dream Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and TIRUN Travel Marketing.

Right 'Connect' to success Eastbound Group’s latest initiative — Eastbound Connect — is dedicated to empower and enlighten its partners and help them achieve success in the dynamic and ever-changing travel industry.

Nisha Verma work and a society work. This is our endeavour as a group to ex- astbound Group kicked off its pand our circle of influence and E‘Eastbound Connect’ series present an industry platform for recently, which had Dr. Arokias- learning and networking.” wamy Velumani, CEO & Founder, Thyrocare, as the first speaker The portfolio would for the experiential trade en- gagement event series. The first eventually include event happened at Hotel Le Me- Amit Kishore areas of knowledge, ridien, Gurgaon, which saw a full Co-founder and Director house, where attendees listened Eastbound Group skill and leadership to the thought-provoking ses- development sion titled ‘Focus, Learn, Grow & that we opened and closed to Enjoy’, where the speaker cited a full house in the first chapter examples from his inspirational itself. The event portfolio would Kishore also said that while journey led by determination, eventually include multiple ar- this was the first such event, belief and consistency. Amit eas of knowledge, skill and they will try to take it to other Kishore, Co-founder and Direc- leadership development.” cities in future. “We’d like to tor at Eastbound Group, said, take the series to Mumbai “Eastbound Connect series is Added Prrithviraj Singh, Co- as well as Chennai and Ben- about the responsibility we take founder & Director at Eastbound galuru. However, most of our as a stakeholder of the travel Group, “It’s an individual com- in-house team and clients are industry and the importance mitment to a group effort, that in Delhi, and hence a large part we see in collaborative devel- is what makes it a teamwork, of the series will happen here,” opment. It is very heartening a company work, an industry he shared.

The Indian government has decided not to let any cruise ship from any foreign destination dock at any of its port. The measure has been taken keeping in mind the growing threat of COVID-19.

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 12 3/17/2020 10:54:14 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 13 3/17/2020 10:54:17 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 14 3/17/2020 10:54:21 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 15 3/17/2020 10:54:25 AM 16 TRAVTALK MARCH 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 HOTELS 52 Accor hotels count on India With two big openings in India soon, Accor has pinned its hopes on the India market, especially after the resounding success it saw for the fourth edition of its Accor Showcase 2020 in Mumbai and New Delhi. The events were attended by 52 global properties of Accor, conducting meetings with over 1,000 trade professionals.

Hazel Jain Kerrie Hannaford, VP, Commer- conference, they continue with cities, over 250 people pre-regis- cial, Accor India and South Asia, their plans but are now booking tered for it. The Accor Showcase rganised consecutively for said, “We have received extraor- in India. The wedding market was has truly built up its reputation in Ofour years, Accor Show- dinary response from the Indian last four years.” case has acted as a catalyst for India is probably the growth of both inbound and On marketing plans, he added, outbound customers. In 2020 one of the most resilient “We are looking at more com- as well, the Accor Showcase markets; it is very much munication with the partners, saw an enormous response coming up on a private island,” more tie-ups, more client en- Kerrie Hannaford a domestic market, with from the travel fraternity in New VP, Commercial, India & South Asia Hannaford added. gagements, people beyond the Delhi and Mumbai. Its fourth edi- huge outbound flow road, on all different platforms, tion saw participation from 52 as well Rohit Chopra, Regional Director we are looking at business with Accor properties globally. The others attended the event. Sales - India, Accor, said, “For a more segment-wise, focused – Kerrie Hannaford hotel representatives interacted Luxury and leisure segments this show, we had hotels from approach. The entire world is with more than 1,000 tourism being key aspects for Accor, Rohit Chopra different categories. We have looking towards India and that is leaders at Pullman New created a buzz at the showcase. Regional Director Sales, India phenomenal in 2019 and it con- multiple Raffles and Fairmonts a positive sign. We look forward Delhi Aerocity on February 26 and tinues to be strong even in March from different countries, and they to seeing more growth in India Sofitel Mumbai BKC on The most awaited brand, 2020, as does corporate travel.” are looking to tap the M!CE and as well.” February 28, 2020. Raffles, also attracted conver- market. We were a little nervous wedding segments. This year, we sation amongst the participants. because the world at the moment Opening soon is the Grand Mer- had participants from Azerbaijan, This year as well, the roadshow Also, the upcoming Fairmont lives in uncertain times. India is cure in Bengaluru, followed by London, North Europe as well as Fact File saw positive conversions for in Mumbai was discussed probably one of the most resilient Raffles in Udaipur by mid-2020. representatives from USA global Accor has, under its umbrella, many participants, especially amongst the industry peers. markets. It is very much a domes- “This is truly our first exclusive sales, so it’s a very proud moment more than 39 brands, ranging for Baku, Turkey and London. The all-new loyalty programme, tic market, with huge outbound luxury property opening for the for us that we are being looked at from luxury to economy. The Many corporates, travel part- ALL- Accor Live Limitless flow as well. You can see the ro- Indian market – the first Raffles for as an import point of sale by all of group has 5,000 hotels spread ners, wedding planners, travel and its offerings was also bustness of the Indian market be- India and we are so excited about them. For the first time, we went across 110 countries. agents, airline partners and a highlight. cause instead of cancelling their it. It is a whole new level of luxury for online registrations and in both TIPs from Tourism NZ Tourism New Zealand and Immigration New Zealand have launched their latest brand campaign, as well as an extension of the Tourism Industry Partnership (TIP) programme.

Manas Dwivedi faster processing of visitor visa Kesari Tours and Veena World. applications for Indian leisure Between the three new part- alled ‘100% Pure Welcome – travellers. The new arrangement ners, Indian visitors can now get C100% Pure New Zealand’, the provides Indian leisure travellers expedited visitor visa process- campaign draws from the insight a more streamlined visa service ing in 60 additional locations that morning is an important time with a faster processing time of across India.” of the day for Indians, as well as seven working days. for New Zealanders. As part of The Tourism Industry Partner- the campaign a yearlong content Steven Dixon, Regional Trade ship was originally launched in series has been released with Marketing Manager- Asia, Tour- November 2014. Valid only for ‘Good Morning World’ messages ism New Zealand said, “The incentive visas in the first year, shared by locals welcoming extension of this programme is a grand total of 876 applications

visitors from their favourite spots built on the success of our exist- were processed. Last year, dur- across the country. ing partnerships over the last five ing the period of June 2018-July years. We are grateful to continue 2019, more than 5,000 (5,492) To coincide with the brand our association with Kulin Kumar applications (which included in- launch, Tourism New Zealand Holidays, SOTC Travel and Tho- centive and leisure visas) were and Immigration New Zealand mas Cook India and we are look- processed under the partner- together launched an extension ing forward to welcoming many ship, which is a positive 627 per of the Tourism Industry Partner- more Indian leisure travellers by cent increase compared to the ship (TIP) Programme to facilitate adding Flamingo Transworld, first year.

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 16 3/17/2020 10:54:28 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 17 3/17/2020 10:54:33 AM 18 TRAVTALK MARCH 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 DESTINATIONS Top 10 things to do in RAK A hidden gem in northernmost UAE, Ras Al Khaimah is a dream destination for all travellers. The emirate boasts of magnificent landscapes featuring breathtaking coastlines, terracotta desert planes, and the Hajar mountain range with the UAE’s highest peak – Jebel Jais. With year-long sunshine & 64 kms of white beaches, RAK offers a unique experience.

Hazel Jain Jebel Jais Flight Jais Sky Tour The Jebel Jais Flight is the world’s Covering a total distance of 5 kms via a longest zipline and a bucket-list at- series of seven zip lines ranging from 337 traction for tourists around the world. metres to just over a kilometre, the Jais Those who wish to take the plunge will Sky Tour will give visitors a panoramic, get to travel at speeds of 120kph to bird’s eye view of the towering Hajar 150kph, 1,680 metres above sea level. Mountains. They will navigate their way Fitted with a special harness, visitors through the sky averaging speeds of 60 will have the chance to experience the kmph and find themselves at UAE’s high- 1thrill for two to three minutes. 2 est sky bridge, 1,250m above sea level.

Jebel Jais Viewing RAK Museum Deck Park The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah houses a collection of archaeological Viewing Deck Park is open from 8am- and ethnological artefacts. Interesting 8pm on weekdays and 8am-11pm on items include documents, manuscripts weekends. The 22,730 sqm park fea- and treaties between the rulers of RAK tures seven viewing decks complete and Great Britain. There are also exhibits with 12 binoculars. It offers visitors an of traditional weapons belonging to the opportunity to enjoy superb vistas of ruling family and archaeological displays the Arabian Gulf and Al Hajar Mountain about the earliest settlers in the area. 3valley from 1,250 m above sea level. 4

Suwaidi Pearls Farm Miss Teak Cruise Abdullah Al Suwaidi set up the region’s Tourists can cruise their way on the first cultured pearl farm. It is located vibrant waters of the Arabian Sea on a on a sliver alongside the sea and the traditionally decorated wooden dhow mountains that Al Rams nestles. Here, (yacht) along the virgin beach for Al visitors can learn the techniques of Marjan Island, as they take in pictur- pearl farming and actually try opening esque views of the city such as the pyr- an oyster. amid building at Bab Al Bahr. This allows visitors to take in the amazing views of 5 6 water and the surroundings.

Kayaking in mangroves Al Wadi Equestrian Mangroves and salt flats form a large Adventure Centre part of the coastal and inland landscape of RAK. They are home to a variety of The Ritz-Carlton RAK resort’s equestrian fauna including flamingoes, and extend centre offers lessons and experiences right to the centre of Ras Al Khaimah,. for guests of all age and skill levels. Onecan take kayak to ex- Guests can enjoy a range of activities, plore the mangroves. including camel riding and horse riding, or simply take the little ones for a fun in- 7 8 teractive experience with the ponies.

Wadi Showka Bedouin Oasis Camp For the adventurous, mountain bik- This secret haven has been designed for ing in Wadi Showka offers that added discerning customers lloking for a tradi- adrenaline rush and excitement. Expect tional experience of the Arabian desert, endless routes of downhill and uphill fused with luxury. The Bedouin Oasis is thrills passing through local farms and an authentic reproduction of Bedouin life wild camels. Guests can also join the as it used to be. The experience includes guided group ride at sunrise. Visitors activities like dune-bashing, sand-board- can also indulge in a mix of canyoning ing, barbeque dinners, and even an over- 9and hiking. 10 night stay in Bedouin-style tents.

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 18 3/17/2020 10:54:37 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 19 3/17/2020 10:54:40 AM 20 TRAVTALK MARCH 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 AVIATION SriLankan adds new Indian points V Ravindran, Regional Manager - India & Bangladesh, SriLankan Airlines, says that India remains their top source market and hence they are increasing frequencies to existing locations in the country, while looking to add Calicut and Ahmedabad to their network by the end of this year, which would boost M!CE movement further.

Nisha Verma ated. While the former led the 11/11, which is catching up operate to Sydney. We are al- airline to increase frequency, globally as ‘Single’s Day’. In ready flying four daily flights to ndia is a prominent market especially in Delhi where it now addition, Ravindran says, they Melbourne. This will be a good Ifor Sri Lanka and SriLankan are focusing on M!CE move- product for the Indian leisure Airlines, claims V Ravindran. After the unfortunate incident market specifically to Austral- “We operate in 11 destinations in Colombo in April 2019, In- ia,” he says. in India. In some of the metros dia was the quickest market to like Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai Insisting that travel agents are and Bengaluru, we have at least one of the main stakeholders double-daily flights. At other We are giving two for them, Ravindran shares, stations, we have a minimum per cent commission to “We are giving two per cent of three flights and at some, we commission to travel agents. have daily flights. That’s how travel agents. Without We try to make any fares or of- important India is as a source V Ravindran them, it is very difficult fers available to them because market for Sri Lanka,” he says. Regional Manager - India & their reach is more. It is fair to Bangladesh, SriLankan Airlines to manage are grateful to Indian tourists,” ment from India. “We have say that without travel agents, Since September 2019, Ravin- Ravindran shares. some new destinations to be it is very difficult to manage. dran adds, the Indian market has 21 flights a week instead bounce back for Sri Lanka. “In added as per business plan, We have some plans in terms has performed extremely well of 18, the latter was primarily December 2019, tourist arriv- SriLankan’s strategy is to pro- subject to aircraft procurement. of promotions as well.” in terms of both passenger on account of “fantastic per- als from India grew compared mote both the airline and the Hence, Ahmedabad and Calicut numbers and revenue gener- formance of the sales team.” to December 2018. Hence, we destination through various are going to be the latest Indian On the COVID-19 outbreak, he mediums such as direct con- destinations to be connected says, “People are reluctant to sumer marketing campaigns, via SriLankan. With that, we travel, and we need to monitor Mount Everest has shut down for the rest of the expedition season because special promotions, special are going to fly to 11 destina- and see if there are cancella- of the coronavirus outbreak. Nepal's government announced that it would event promotions, festival tions in India, and we will start tions. We are cautious and promotions, and even anniver- a minimum of four flights a taking all possible action to cancel all climbing permits from 14 March until 30 April. saries and special dates like week. We also have plans to prevent the spread, if any.” India in focus for Azerbaijan India was in the top 10 list of source countries for Azerbaijan in 2019. Ease in visa procedures and its popularity as a wedding paradise have helped the destination win tourists, but there is still a lot to explore.

Hazel Jain territory, travelling is also easy.” The Azerbaijan Tourism Board is ear 2019 was the first time also promoting special interest Ythat Azerbaijan hit the three travellers for activities such as million global visitor mark. It kite-surfing, bird watching, as was also the first year that India well as health and wellness. The made it to its top 10 international country offers the e-visa facility source markets. Sharing this is for Indian nationals. The Board Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of Azerbaijan Tourism Board, who Florian Sengstschmid says, “We received 3.2 million CEO, Azerbaijan Tourism Board We welcomed visitors in 2019 from all over the world, which was a growth of 12 65,000 Indian per cent. India especially showed “The wedding segment did very visitors in 2019, an amazing growth rate of al- well for us in 2019. Weddings in pushing India to the top most 70 per cent as compared Azerbaijan are as important to us to 2018. We welcomed 65,000 as they are in India, and we can 10 list of international Indian visitors in 2019, pushing offer everything from horses to visitors for 2019 India to the top 10 list of interna- fire shows. We hosted several tional visitors for 2019. We think big weddings in Baku last year. there is still a lot of scope to grow In fact, Indian wedding planners is also working towards finalis- this market.” have already settled in Baku. We ing a three-city roadshow across are also promoting skiing in our Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai, Speaking about the segments country. Since we have nine out with the aim of connecting with that did incredibly well, he adds, of 11 climate zones in a small tour operators,” he says.

According to HVS India Hospitality Overview 2019, Chandigarh recorded the highest growth in RevPAR (12.3%) in 2019. However, Mumbai continued to record the highest RevPAR of `6,464 in 2019.

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 20 3/17/2020 10:54:41 AM QUICKBYTES MARCH 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 TRAVTALK 21 Travel in the time of COVID-19 The COVID-19 outbreak has taken the entire world by storm, and has dealt a big blow to the travel and tourism industry across the world. Here’s how a few trade associations and travel companies are responding to the chaos that has followed after the spread of the virus. This will also help agents advise their clients accordingly.

Summer is the peak travel With the safety of our travel- We see that the slowdown in period in India. But due to the lers as the primary goal, the Glo- business is as high as 45-50 per current situation we can antici- bus family believes in giving them cent. Travellers, at least for leisure, pate a drop of 20-25 per cent in more time and flexibility with the are not travelling. The business future bookings for Southeast travel decisions. We are moni- traveller is also wary and trying to Asia and Italy. They are wary toring the situation to determine postpone his trip. With the excep- of making fresh bookings to the if additional modifications and tion of China, HK and Iran where affected locations and airfares updates are needed regarding flights are not operating, other to these places have dropped advisements and policies. We airlines are offering a waiver on Jyoti Mayal by 20-30 per cent. We have Dev Karvat are offering an interim policy for Steve Odell change in travel date but not on President, TAAI received 35 per cent of cancella- Founder & CEO – India & our travellers and agents to adjust SVP & MD - Asia Pacific Emerging Markets Regent Seven Seas Cruises & cancellations. We have postponed tion queries from clients visiting TrawellTag Cover-More travel plans and help alleviate im- our convention to and we may look The travel industry under- Oceania Cruises international destinations. mediate concerns. at a different destination. stands the severity of the virus Refund on cancellation of and has been taking measures Expect greater confidence flights and hotel bookings is defi- to ensure the safety of its cus- with Regent Reassurance. For nitely being provided to the trav- tomersr. For instance, leading all voyages beginning between ellers by the respective airlines April 3, 2020 and November 1, visa service provider VFS Glo- and hotels. As an organisation bal is discounting their optional 2020, clients can cancel up to striving towards making travel 30 days prior to sailing and re- services such as doorstep visa safer for customers, we are and even the courier return ceive a 100% credit, which can providing medical hospitalisa- be used for a new booking within services, so customers don’t tion and cancellation benefits one year on any 2020 or 2021 have to step out and go to visa to travellers whose travel book- Varesh Chopra Regent voyage. This applies to all application centres. They can Sabina Chopra ings were undertaken prior to Pradip Lulla Regional Director – South Asia existing bookings plus new book- now do this in the comfort and Co-founder and COO, Corporate the issuance of Government of Acting President & VP, TAFI Travel & Head Industry Relations, & Middle East ings made by April 30, 2020. safety of their own homes. Yatra.com India’s advisory. Globus family of brands Inputs by Hazel Jain

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 21 3/17/2020 10:54:44 AM ASSOCIATIONTALK ATOAI bats for Uttarakhand Media Partners: Captain Swadesh Kumar, President, Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), shares that he recently got a chance of putting forth the issues of adventure tour industry in front of the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand for consideration.

MARCH 2020 Nisha Verma technology to clear the snow, He mentioned that there are no but now things are better,” he rescue centres in the country, MITT Moscow 17-19 aptain Swadesh Kumar rep- added. Kumar revealed that and hence they have made a New Zealand Tourism Webinar Pan India 17 Cresented the entire adventure they have requested the Ut- request to create rescue centres tourism industry in the country tarakhand government to not for Uttarkashi, Joshimath, where Global Hospitality and Tourism Shillong 18-20 and shared some points with charge booking fee to the tour the climbing expeditions and Conference on Experiential Management and Marketing the CM on how they can boost operators for climbing or trek- trekking are going on. Insisting business in the adventure sector king expeditions. “The CM that the most crucial thing is pro- Switzerland Tourism Webinar Pan India 20 agreed to consider our request motion of tourism in Uttarakhand, of not charging any booking fee, he said, “There is no scheme IITE Bhubaneswar 20-22 Captain Swadesh Kumar President, ATOAI where you can help the industry Korea Tourism Webinar Pan India 25 in Uttarakhand to promote the nobody has opened it till now. If it They accepted products. Hence, I suggested that WTM Latin America Sao Paulo 31-Apr 2 is opened, there will be employ- all our suggestions they can do something similar to ment opportunities for the locals MOT’s MDA scheme at the state APRIL 2020 in the state. “The best part is, he and also the pressure would be and agreed to take level. I also told them to partici- accepted all my suggestions and released on the Gangotri area, action on the same pate in the travel and tourism fairs Korea Tourism Webinar Pan India 3 agreed to take action on the same which is inundated by visitors.” across the country and the world. by March 31,” he said. by March 31 There should be aggressive mar- Travel Nevada Webinar Pan India 8 He also urged the CM to get keting with the government going Sharing details, he added, “My the four pilgrimages of Gan- which goes to the tune of 65k with the industry and sell pack- Korea Tourism Webinar Pan India 9 first recommendation was to gotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and for expeditions. We have also ages on the spot. I am sure that India Tourism Conclave by CEPR Delhi 21 get the Nanda Devi sanctuary Badrinath temples to open for asked him to open new trekking if these ideas succeed in Uttara- opened. It was closed in 1982 for 12 months. “Earlier the roads routes in the area and promote khand, they can be duplicated in International Conference on Dehradun 24-27 10 years for ecology reasons, but were bad and there was no the same,” he informed. other states as well.” IATO Election Delhi 25 MAY 2020 Choking travel won’t curb spread ILTM Latin America Sao Paulo 5-8 Africa’s Travel Indaba Durban 12-14 World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has said that closing ILTM Asia Pacific Singapore 31-Jun 3 borders, blanket travel bans and more extreme government policies will not stop the spread of coronavirus. JUNE 2020 She added, “Past experience British Travel & Tourism Show Birmingham 11-12 Nisha Verma We urge shows that taking such extreme IATA AGM Amsterdam 22-23 loria Guevara, President & governments to explore action has been ineffective at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai 28-Jul 1 GCEO of WTTC and former best. We urge governments to Gloria Guevara of Mexico, has fact-based measures explore fact-based measures President & CEO, WTTC urged governments and authori- which don’t affect which don’t affect majority of JULY 2020 ties worldwide not to overreact people and businesses for whom said, “We understand there is with disproportionate measures majority of people travel is essential.” huge concern about COVID-19. TTF Kolkata 3-5 in a bid to control COVID-19. However, fatality rates remain She says, “Governments and blanket travel bans and imple- COVID-19 has a lower mortal- very low and the chances of con- International Conference on Singapore 6-7 Tourism & Hospitality those in authority must not seek menting extreme policies are not ity rate than previous viral out- tracting the virus, for majority of to choke travel and trade at this the answer to stopping the spread breaks such as SARS in 2003 people, are very remote if they TTF South Hyderabad 10-11 time. Closing borders, imposing of coronavirus.” and MERS in 2012. Guevara travel responsibly.” HICSA 2020 Mumbai 22-23

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FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 22 3/17/2020 10:54:46 AM CLIPBOARD MARCH 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 TRAVTALK 23

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 23 3/17/2020 10:54:47 AM 24 TRAVTALK MARCH 2ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 MOVEMENTS

TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND NOVOTEL HOTEL New Delhi Ahmedabad Bengaluru Vachirachai Sirisumpan has been appointed as the new Director of Novotel Ahmedabad has appointed Jayakrishnan Sudhakaran as the Shinoj Joseph has been promoted as Area General Manager for Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) New Delhi Office. He has been with new General Manager. Jay brings with him 20 years of expertise in North Bengaluru and airport region for Royal Orchid Hotels. He has TAT for more than 20 years with extensive experience sales, marketing and operations. Prior to joining been with Royal Orchid Hotels since 2017 and working in various divisions, including International Novotel Ahmedabad, Jay was the was earlier also the General Manager for Relations - Europe, Middle East and Africa at Novotel Ibis Chennai OMR. He has been Hotel Royal Orchid Suites - Whitefield. Markets, Domestic Marketing, and Policy and associated with Accor for the past five years. He has been awarded for his dedication Planning. Prior to his assignment to head He cleared the prestigious IHMP program in to the industry and the various brands the TAT Delhi Office, he was the Director 2018 and this is his first project as a General he has worked for. Joseph has over two of Southern Market Division promoting Manager of a hotel. He began his journey decades of experience in the hospitality and coordinating Thailand’s with Taj President Hotel, Mumbai in domain, especially in mid-segment hotels. southern region for domestic banqueting and later moved to be In the new role, he will ensure that Royal tourism. In his previous a part of hospitality brands such Orchid Hotels continues to make a assignment, Sirisumpan as InterContinental Hotels, The mark for itself in the Bengaluru had been posted at TAT Carlson Hotels and the Zuri region, ensuring all hotels Dubai as Deputy Director Hotels & Resorts in various are well-positioned to for Middle East. capacities within sales. meet customer demands.

ALTAIR HOTEL IBIS CITY CENTRE FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON Kolkata Coimbatore Bengaluru Ayan Mitra is the new General Manager of the , AltAir, Sandip Satange has been appointed as Hotel Manager at ibis Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar has been appointed as the Hotel Manager which is strategically located near Sector V of Salt Lake in Kolkata. Coimbatore City Centre. Satange brings with him a rich international at Four Points by Sheraton Bengaluru Whitefield. With over 18 years Mitra has been handed over the role to maintain hospitality experience with over 11 years of experience, Talwar is an outstanding the grandeur of the boutique hotel built by the across global hospitality brands in India, hospitality professional. In her current Neotia Group. He was earlier the General USA and UK, including stints with ibis role, she will be spearheading many Manager of The Stadel Kolkata. He also led London Shepherd’s Bush and ibis London initiatives that guarantee exceptional the bar & beverage operation of Swissôtel. Heathrow. His journey with Accor started guest service and financial An IHMITE pass out, Mitra started his in 2010 as the F&B Team Leader of ibis profitability. Prior to this, she was the endeavour with ITC Sonar, Kolkata followed London Heathrow. During this course, he Market Director of Sales & Marketing by The Park, Kolkata and Kenilworth hotel. successfully led the pre-opening of four at Marriott in Bengaluru. She started He achieved another milestone in his hotels and was one of the key members of her career with the Renaissance career with his association with the pre-opening team of ibis Chennai Sipcot. Mumbai and Best Western group of hotels, He also spearheaded the opening and launch then began her stint with Marriott. Chandigarh as Food & of Holiday Express, Bengaluru She has a bachelor’s degree in Hotel Beverage Manager. Whitefield as Hotel Manager. Management from the Institute of Hotel Management, Aurangabad.

THE MANOHAR HOTEL RENAISSANCE CONVENTION CENTRE THE WESTIN GARDEN CITY Hyderabad Mumbai Mumbai Chandan Kumar Chanchal has been appointed as General Manager at Renaissance Mumbai has recently announced the appointment of Shalin Jose has been appointed as the new Director of Spa at The The Manohar-Hyderabad hotel. He brings with him over 16 years of Bjorn Fernandes as the Director of Sales & Marketing for Renaissance Westin Mumbai Garden City. With over 16 years of experience in the experience in the , with core Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel & Lakeside wellness industry, Jose’s abilities span every competency in sales and marketing. He has Chalet, Mumbai – Marriott Executive facet of the industry, including management, previously been associated with other Apartments. In the new role, Fernandes will concept development, marketing, reputed brands like Hyatt, Radisson, help position the hotel among the leading branding and business development. He Holiday Inn, Sarovar Hotels, and The ones in the city, with the immense amount brings with him a wealth of knowledge Lalit. In the new role at The Manohar- of experience he brings to the hotel. Prior to the position and prior to joining The Hyderabad, Chanchal will oversee overall to this new appointment, Fernandes Westin Mumbai Garden City, was Spa hotel operations by providing strategic was appointed as the Market Director of Director for the Starwood Hotels and guidance to the team. He will ensure that Revenue Management – Mumbai Resorts for three years. In the new all operational and budgetary goals are Cluster for Marriott International. role, Jose will be responsible for the met, and that customer satisfaction is He has been part of efficient running of all existing top priority in delivering a quality the Marriott family for a spa facilities within Westin experience to guests. decade now. Mumbai’s portfolio.

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 24 3/17/2020 10:54:52 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 25 3/17/2020 10:54:55 AM LASTPAGE MOT's multilingual website Prahlad Singh Patel, Minister of State (I/C) for Tourism & Culture, recently launched the multilingual Incredible India website in New Delhi, wherein information will now also be available in Chinese, Arabic and Spanish. More languages will be introduced in the future.

Nisha Verma is provisioned on the website Patel. He says, “Majority of Sri the world, India is still much through 360 degree-experi- Lankan tourists go to Sanchi, safer. “I believe that a lot of ef- he Minister launched the ence-based walk-throughs and there we have put up sig- ficiency and responsibility has Twebsite in the presence of and stories and experiences nages in Sinhalese language been visible in the kind of safe- Yogendra Tripathi, Secretary, related to food & cuisine, within 7 days. As a result, we ty procedures being adopted at Tourism; Meenakshi Sharma, heritage, nature and wildlife, got appreciation within the all our international airports. Director General, Tourism; luxury, spiritual, adventure, art, country as well as in Sri Lanka. This has taken the respect for Rakesh Verma, Joint Secretary, shopping and much more. He This is an example would only our country at higher level. This Tourism; Rupinder Brar, Ad- added, “MOT’s Incredible In- help us in working in the future. is a topic of grave concern, ditional Director General, Tour- dia 2.0 website aims towards Wherever we have one lakh or which needs to be monitored ism; and G Kamala Vardhana showcasing the varied tourism more tourists coming, who are and analysed closely. The team Rao, CMD, ITDC, and other products of India at a global not comfortable in Hindi and is doing just that,” he claimed. senior officials of the Ministry. arena by providing visitors English, we can offer the sig- with relevant, personalised and nages in their languages and Sharma added that they will Multilingual website contextual digital experience make it easy for them." keep promoting India the way Speaking on the occasion, Pa- escalating tourism awareness, they had been, but this is tel, said, “Our targets are very attraction and opportunities.” 2021: Visit India Year? the time where “everybody clear. We want to showcase the Patel also added that while shall take a deep breath, wait diversity in the nation, in terms Sharing more details on the they want to promote domestic for the crisis to get over and of language, dresses or food, website, Meenakshi Sharma, tourism in India in 2020, and he walk forward, while taking which are the biggest identi- said, “The website is quite said that they are thinking of de- proper measures.”

Overseas agencies MOT is already in process of signing agencies to handle its overseas promotions. Sharma shared, “We are working on having one agency in Australia and one is already working with China, which we have not been able to sign yet, but we will be signing later. There will also be

ties of our cultural heritage. comprehensive, considering claring 2021 as Visit India Year, The tourists, both domestic that Indian has so much to offer. with an aim to invite people We want people and foreign, come to see this It has almost 1 million words in across the world to the coun- across the world to diversity. We should learn to each of the versions, covering try and showcase its diversity. know India and see its cater to their tastes and inter- 165 destinations, 24 experi- “We want people across the ests, and the same shall be ences, smaller websites on the world to know India and see its cultural heritage and visible on our website. In 2019, Land of Gandhi, Land of Bud- cultural heritage and its attrac- its attractions. In order India witnessed the arrival of dha, and a lot of experimental tions. In order to showcase that more than 10.9 million foreign content—crafted in India, 3D we are in discussion to declare to showcase that, we tourists, of which about 6 lakh walkthrough, museums, world 2021 as Visit India Year. We are in discussion to people speak Chinese, about 2 heritage sites, etc. We are also want to make the new multi- declare 2021 as lakh speak Arabic, and about 1 working on French, Japanese lingual website and language lakh 25 thousand speak Span- and Korean languages, which facilities at important tourist Visit India Year ish. Hence, apart from English will be unveiled in future.” sites, act as facilities to attract and Hindi, we have given space tourists from different countries one in South Africa. In all our to these three languages on the Translation of signages across the world,” he shared. eight offices, we have agen- website, so that they can take a To help tourists from Sri Lanka, cies coming in very soon. By better decision.” MOT has got signages put up in Coronavirus scare April, when the new financial Sanchi in Sinhalese language, The Minister said that while year starts, we should have He revealed that the immer- which is the native language everyone is aware about Coro- at least four agencies in sive experience-based content of the island nation, revealed navirus and its impact around four offices.”

FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 26 3/17/2020 10:54:58 AM FINAL_TT_March-2nd-2020.indd 27 3/17/2020 10:54:59 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: 15-03-2020

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