TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 1 Vol. XXIXIssue21; November 1 ddppl.com st fortnight i fortnight ssue 2017 A DDPPUBLICATION Pages : 88 TravTalkIndia.com 03-11-2017 12:21:10 ` 50/- TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 2 03-11-2017 12:21:13 Maya dazzles in Ahmedabad The fourth edition of the West Travel Awards recognised and celebrated the achievers in the travel and tourism industry of the western region at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre recently. The award winners were applauded for the efforts undertaken to develop tourism and hospitality over the years.

Mahesh Shirodkar, Managing Director, Tamarind Global was DDP Game Changer Mahendra Vakharia0DQDJLQJ'LUHFWRU3DWKÀQGHUV+ROLGD\VZDV''37UDLOEOD]HU NE one of MOT’s focus at WTM World Travel Market London, a global event, responsible for reshaping the travel industry of the world is finally here. Rashmi Verma, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India, who will be leading the Indian contingent at WTM, tells us how they are gearing up for their participation at this event from November 6-8.

NIKHIL ANAND nies to find and network with Verma, Secretary, Ministry ticipation from the industry resentatives not just under The Ministry will also play nearly 51,000 travel profes- of Tourism, Government of and the state governments the Incredible India pavilion host to all the key tour opera- orld Travel Market Lon- sionals, key industry buyers, India, who will be accompa- to give a greater impetus of the Ministry of Tourism, tors and media representa- Wdon, the leading global journalists, digital influenc- nied by Meenakshi Sharma, to tourism in the country. but also in their own might tives that it has called upon to event for the travel industry ers, students and tourism Speaking about the focus in the form of independ- showcase some of the new is in its 37th year and re- ministers. Given the event’s areas for the delegation, ent pavilions. Elaborating initiatives of the government of mains as prominent and as proportion and proposition, Verma said, “This time the on the efforts in place to India in the tourism sector and opportunistic as ever for all India has always looked to nucleus will be sustainable further substantiate India’s also in the North East sector. the participating nations in- put their best foot forward tourism and we will be show- position in the global market Through these direct interac- cluding India. The three-day to attract bigger tourist num- casing niche products to our as a destination of choice tions with the global travel fra- mega event will bring to- bers into the country. This key and emerging markets. amongst international travel- ternity and media, the ministry gether almost 5000 exhibit- year, leading India’s delega- While UK and other Euro- lers, she further added “This is hoping to achieve a lot of ing destinations, technology tion at the World Travel Mar- pean countries have always year, we will be hosting an mileage and interest into India and private sector compa- ket London will be Rashmi been an extremely important India evening, and this will as a destination. source market for us, the help give a greater perspec- fact that WTM London will tive into India to the world Post WTM London, the India is partner country @ FITUR ensure participation from all representations who will be Ministry of Tourism will also Rashmi Verma over the world, makes it a present at WTM. Apart from be conducting roadshows in India is the partner country at FITUR 2018, which is set to Secretary be held from January 17-21 in Madrid, Spain. Hence, we will be Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India very key activity for us.” this there is going to be a key markets like Europe and participating in a very big way and the campaign has also been separate North East evening Canada along with emerg- planned for the event in and around FITUR exhibition. We have In recognition of the as well, which will focus on ing markets like Russia and many plans for it. Since the clientele in Spain is different, we will Additional Director , presented platform, India fulfilling the tourism potential Japan. The roadshows will look at the countries which are participating at FITUR and offer amongst other ministry offi- has always seen a strong in the region by giving it the commence from the end our niche products as per their specific markets. cials. The Indian delegation representation of state gov- advertisement it needs at the of November and will span will also boast of a huge par- ernments and industry rep- global level.” across till March 2018.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 3 03-11-2017 12:21:17 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 4 03-11-2017 12:21:19 BULLETIN FAITH appoints new members The Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality elected its team of office bearers. Nakul Anand, Executive Director, ITC, remains Chairman, while Subhash Goyal has been elected its Secretary.

TT BUREAU tary of the organisation, while requesting the President to Garish Oberoi, Partner, Ho- inaugurate the same.” AITH has elected its new tel Uberoi Anand, who was Fteam of office bearers nominated by Federation of Talking about the path with Nakul Anand, Execu- Hotels and Restaurant Asso- ahead, he informed that they tive Director, ITC, reinstated ciation of India (FHRAI), has are planning to form an or- as the Chairman. Anand was been declared the Treasurer. ganising committee for the represented by Hotel Asso- Aashish Gupta continues convention, which will write ciation of India (HAI), while his role as the Consulting to the president. “We will also Akshay Kumar, CEO, Mer- CEO of FAITH. bring out the FAITH newslet- cury Himalayan Explorations, ter, which will be circulated nominated by Adventure Tour The election of the team Subhash Goyal to the members. We want the Operators Association of In- was done unanimously by Chairman, STIC Travel Group, taxation on tourism industry dia (ATOAI) is the new Vice- all the 10 member associa- India Travel Award Winner to not be more than 5 per Chairman. The apex associa- tions of FAITH. Goyal, said, cent, whether they are tour tion has created an additional “As far as the new team is country. We also know that operators, hotels or transport- position of Vice-Chairman, concerned, we are already Indian tourism industry is ers, we should be able to take and has elected Sunil on the right track so we’ll facing various challenges input credits so that net effect Kumar R, CEO, Travel World, continue with what we are and problems, so FAITH be- of the taxes on the package or for the same. Kumar was doing. However, I will per- ing the apex organisation, the product is not more than nominated by Travel Agents sonally make an endeav- will be taking up all those the 5 per cent. We will also Association of India (TAAI), our to closely work with the issues as well. We are also set up GET INDIA Exhibition of which he is also the Presi- state tourism boards, state planning to start All India once again. Last time, Prime dent. Subhash Goyal, Chair- governments and also the Convention, which will be Minister of India attended it man, STIC Travel Group, central government, so that the mother of all conven- and we are planning another nominated by Indian Associa- we may further carry on tions where we would like big exhibition jointly with Min- tion of Tour Operators (IATO) with using tourism for eco- all the ten associations to istry of Commerce focusing is the new Honorary Secre- nomic transformation of the get involved and we will be on tourism,” he added.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 5 03-11-2017 12:21:22 STATISTICS Make Incredible India a reality India has now released the second edition of the most well-recognised VIEWPOINT destination campaign in the world. But it will benefit from tweaking the gaps that have widened over the years. Excerpts from World Economic Forum’s white The WTM call paper titled ‘Incredible India 2.0 India’s $20 Billion Tourism Opportunity’.

big contingent from India led by Rashmi orld Economic Forum’s tions and state-level bodies, of tourism boards, their roles Trending now W(WEF) white paper on no public-private organisation and activities, as well as out- The new single Goods and A Verma, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, India’s tourism industry re- represents the industry, and comes. Their research found Services Tax (GST), applied on Govt of India, is heading to London, for the leased in September 2017 these bodies work independ- that most tourism boards in- the Indian hospitality market much-awaited World Travel Market. UK is outlines the country’s US$ 20 ently to drive forward their own clude a mix of public and pri- since July 1, 2017, is likely to the biggest market for India inbound, and billion tourism opportunity that agenda. No single ministry is vate-sector representatives. be highly detrimental to the lies underneath the issues responsible for all the policies industry. The GST proposed in hence WTM holds a special place for inbound that needs resolution. Its Glo- affecting the aviation, travel This White Paper also India is the highest across a tour operators. In fact, last year, India was bal Competitiveness Report and tourism industry. The Min- recommends a state-level broad range of markets in the the premium partner at the event and had 2016-17 ranks India at 39th istries of Civil Aviation, Tour- approach, with a proposal to region, amounting to 28 per a plethora of presentations to showcase at position, bringing it up 16 ism, Home Affairs, Culture create a pilot in a state that cent for hotels with room tariffs places in each of the last two and Road Transport and High- the event. With the new Incredible India 2.0 years. India has shown im- ways, among others, have all campaign and a fresh website, India is all provement across the board been actively involved in the &RPSDUDWLYH7D[5DWHVLQ$VLD3DFLÀF geared up to welcome more tourists. The and particularly in goods industry’s policies. Country Rooms(%) Food & Beverage inbound operators are also looking forward market efficiency, business and Catering Outlet (%) sophistication and innovation. This board could sup- ,QGLD   for the same to attract business. However, port enhancing industry co- Australia 10 10 there are challenges that they are facing The research conducted ordination, joint messaging, 6LQJDSRUH   currently, the most crucial one being the new by Bain & Company estimated building Indian talent, driving 7KDLODQG   that this increase in tourism forward industry-wide policy ,QGRQHVLD%DOL   GST regime, which has now made packages China 6 6 receipts would come from a recommendations and en- more costly, especially when it is compared to 0DOD\VLD   growth in international arriv- acting change through poli- Vietnam 10 10 other neighbouring countries. Infrastructure, als to 20 million in to India. cies, as well as public-private monument fee and upkeep are other issues, To realise its objective of wel- policy initiatives and small but the ministry is taking them up in a big way coming over 15 million foreign and medium-sized enterprise has traditionally welcomed of US$115 and above. Given tourists by 2025 and becom- growth, while considering fewer international visitors, that, over 70 per cent of hotel and we can expect better days to come for this ing the largest aviation market India’s reality and best prac- and to develop a few of its accommodation is consumed sector. With more and new tourism products by 2030, India needs to focus tices from other countries. destinations via public-pri- by business travellers and the being developed in India, the future of Indian on its opportunities and under- vate cooperation. market still faces significant tourism would only shine and we hope that it stand its current limitations. room shortages, hotel rooms Survey on the Digital platform are not a luxury. happens sooner. Already endowed with Incredible India 2.0 must incredible natural beauty and Perception of India engage travellers on Insta- Creating a powerful nar- cultural heritage, India must as a Destination gram, Facebook, Snapchat, rative is not enough. India foster an enabling environ- Response % Twitter, among other digital must establish an enabling MICE rules the roost ment for the industry to pros- 'LYHUVLW\  platforms. It should consider environment for business per. This White Paper puts &XOWXUH  which influencers will inspire development and for both he year 2017 has been a taxing year for the forward recommendations, Incredible 13 people to visit India. As India domestic and foreign invest- 6SLULWXDOLW\0\VWLTXH  hospitality industry with major blows like highlighting the importance prepares to launch Incredible ment. As shown in the table T of public-private cooperation &KDOOHQJHV XQVDIHLQHTXDOLW\ India 2.0 with a budget of over and highlighted specifically demonetisation, followed by liquor ban and in execution. FRQJHVWHGSRYHUW\   $46 million, it will need to deter- by India’s ranking on the GST as the final one. However, the industry Vibrant 6 mine its message to the world, first five indicators, empha- &KDRWLF  A national define its audience, messen- sis should be put on ensur- still managed to stay afloat with some hotels *DVURQRP\  tourism board ger and channels of communi- ing that India’s environment recording profits in the last quarter. While 'HYHORSPHQW*URZWK  A proposal to create a +LVWRU\  cation, and forge partnerships supports the development of many attribute this on their relationships Tourism Board is put forward. Cheap 3 to ensure success. the industry. with the guests as well as the service, a lot Currently, India’s travel and 6SHFLÀFVLWHV of credit does go to the corporate and MICE tourism industry lacks a uni- 7DM0DKDO*RD   Travel and Tourism competitiveness fied public-private body to %HORQJLQJQHVV3ULGH  sector. In fact, Indian MICE and wedding represent the industry. India Ranking: Countries Compared business is not only keeping the domestic has more than 50 active for- Pillar India China Singapore Thailand hotels afloat but also catching the fancy eign tourism boards, yet the Bain & Company un- *OREDO5DQNLQJ     of hotels and destinations internationally. country does not have its own dertook a seven-economy BussiQHVV(QYLURQPHQW     tourism board. While it has a analysis, investigating the 6DIHW\DQG6HFXULW\     Brands known in the country as well as new number of industry associa- governance and organisation +HDOWKDQG+\JLHQH     names are entering the Indian market to woo +XPDQ5HVRXUFHVDQG     not only FITs and family business, but also to Tiffany Misrahi, Com- have been actively involved Labour Market ,&75HDGLQHVV     get a chunk of the big MICE pie that India is munity Lead, Aviation, Travel in the creation of the Incred- & Tourism Industries, World ible India 2.0 report. On the Prioritisation of Travel DQG7RXULVP     currently offering. In fact, they are adopting Economic Forum, says, “The basis of the report, we hope ,QWHUQDWLRQDO2SHQQHVV     marketing techniques, including Fam trips Minister of Civil Aviation P. to have discussions with a 3ULFH&RPSHWLWLYHQHVV     for corporates, networking and educational Ashok Gajapathi Raju, the wider range of stakehold- (QYLURQPHQWDO6XVWDLQDELOLW\     sessions for them. From what is projected, Minister of State for Civil Avi- ers to consider how to best $LU7UDQVSRUW,QIUDVWUXFWXUH     ation Jayant Sinha, as well support India in achieving its Indian MICE is only going to get bigger with *URXQGDQG3RUW,QIUDVWUXFWXUH     as with the Chief Executive goals of becoming the larg- 7RXULVW6HUYLFH,QIUDVWUXFWXUH     more multinational companies and industry Officer of NITI (National Insti- est aviation market by 2030 1DWXUDO5HVRXUFHV     giving way to more jobs in the country. tution for India Transforming and welcome over 15 million &XOWXUDO5HVRXUFHV     India) Aayog, Amitabh Kant, tourists by 2025.” and Business Travel

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TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 6 03-11-2017 12:21:28 NEWS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 7 Synergy works at WTM London VXUJHLQIRUHLJQDUULYDOV The Ministers’ Destination Investment Symposium at WTM London will bring together on eTV in September YOY

international investors, government ministers and destinations to explore possible As per the latest data released 2017 were Airport by the Ministry of Tourism, FTAs (53.4 per cent), Mumbai Airport ways of working in tandem with each other for growth of the global tourism economy. on e-Tourist Visa during Septem- (18.5 per cent), Chennai Airport ber 2017 was a total of 1.18 lakh (6.7 per cent), Bengaluru Airport the country. The panel will also to innovate. The programme This annual report polls both tourist as compared to 0.69 lakh (6.3 per cent), Kochi Airport (4.2 TT BUREAU show how Airbnb has launched also includes sessions on members of the global industry during September 2016, regis- per cent), Airport he event is being organ- Trips, which encourages ac- how social media can help and 1,000 UK holidaymakers tering a growth of 71 per cent. (2.8 per cent), Kolkata Airport Tised in collaboration with commodation owners to turn World Heritage Sites manage to create an important snap- During January-September, (2.2 per cent), Amritsar Airport International Hotel Investment tour guide. The session will ask tourism sustainably. shot of travel habits and inten- 2017, a total of 10.67 lakh tour- (1.1 per cent), Trivandrum Air- Forum Berlin (IHIF) and UN if this new collaborative model tions. The attendees will also ists arrived on e-Tourist Visa as port (1 per cent), Ahmedabad World Tourism Organisation is the way forward. WTM London 2017 will be able to learn about the cities compared to 6.75 lakh during Airport (0.9 per cent), Trichy (UNWTO). Building on WTM also be a hotspot for debate which are expected to be travel January-September, 2016, reg- Airport (0.8 per cent), Dabolim London’s expertise within the Artificial Intelligence will informed by new research into stars for 2017, 2020 and 2025 istering a growth of 58 per cent. (Goa) Airport (0.6 per cent), international travel industry also be a key topic where ex- a variety of sectors. The latest as detailed in the WTM Lon- The percentage shares of Calicut Airport (0.5 per cent), and IHIF Berlin’s leadership perts will discuss how AI has trends in the travel and tourism don Top 100 City Destinations top 15 ports in tourist arrivals on Jaipur Airport (0.4 per cent) and in hospitality investment, the become more important for industry will be unveiled in the Ranking Report, incorporating e-Tourist Visa during September Pune Airport (0.2 per cent). symposium is open to inves- the industry and how to use it WTM 2017 Industry Report. Global Travel Trends. tors, ministers and their aides, city mayors, tourism board di- rectors and senior government officials. At the event, two panel debates will take place – the Investors’ Panel and the Min- isters’ Panel – plus a keynote speech on sustainable devel- opment. The Investors’ Panel will explore what makes a destination attractive to inves- tors and travel trends that will affect future investment deci- sions. The Ministers’ Panel will look at how governments work with the travel and hospital- ity sector to make destinations successful, and it will consider issues such as infrastructure, regulations and public-private partnerships. Simon Press, Senior Director, WTM London,

commented, “We’re very proud to be working with IHIF Berlin and the UNWTO on these im- portant questions. IHIF Berlin is very influential within the hospi- tality industry and together with the UNWTO, our symposium can address crucial issues sur- rounding the development of destinations, which in turn can generate tremendous econom- ic benefits and employment opportunities. High-level deci- sions about developing desti- nations can commit millions of pounds to long-term projects, so it’s crucial that investors and ministers have a forum to discuss trends and ideas, and network with each other.”

Also, how destinations market themselves as social media grows in importance, will be a key topic at WTM London 2017. This discussion is expected to be crucial for marketing professionals as the panel would discuss the topic - ‘Is influencer marketing the way forward for destinations?’ The following discussions will look at the topic with a differ- ent angle. ‘Why destinations have to change how they sell themselves’ will examine how Airbnb and Visit Sweden have worked together to promote

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 7 03-11-2017 12:21:29 8 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 STATES Exploring Gujarat through its festivals Gujarat has chosen an interesting way to showcase its various tourist destinations – through its colourful and exciting festivals. Jenu Devan, Managing Director and Commissioner of Tourism, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited, shares more details in an exclusive interview with TRAVTALK.

HAZEL JAIN year originated from within Gujarat. The share of other How is the inbound states was 25.6 per cent. In QVTCHſEHQT)WLCTCV! the current year, 114.76 lakh The gross flow of tourists tourists from other states during 2016-17 was 448 lakhs. visited Gujarat. Maharashtra It was 16.9 per cent higher than continues to top the list (37.2 2015-16. The flow of tourists per cent of other states), fol- within Gujarat also increased lowed by Rajasthan (19.4 per with a 15 per cent growth. Dur- cent), Madhya Pradesh (15.6 ing this period, the NRI and for- per cent), and Uttar Pradesh/ Jenu Devan eigner tourist flow to our state Managing Director and Commissioner of Bihar (12.9 per cent). Busi- boomed with 22.6 per cent and Tourism, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited ness purpose tops the list fol- 31 per cent growth, respec- lowed by religion. Leisure and tively compared to the previous :HJHWPD[LPXPWUDIÀF other purposes follow next. year. A total number of 9.24 from Maharashtra, MP lakhs foreigners/NRIs visited What are your the state during the year which and Rajasthan. Interna- QUQWTEGOCTMGVU! accounted for 2.1 per cent of WLRQDOO\8.WRSVWKHOLVW We see the entire India as the total flow. Out of this, NRIs our source market. However, were 5.19 lakhs, while for- IROORZHGE\86$:H we get maximum traffic from eigners were 4.05 lakhs. The would like to receive our neighbouring states of Ma- growth story of Gujarat Tourism PRUHWUDIÀFIURPWKH harashtra, MP and Rajasthan. began from 2006 onward and Internationally, UK tops the list hence, there is tremendous SE Asian markets followed by USA. We would like scope for tapping the potential to receive more traffic from the of inbound tourism. South East Asian markets as

Darshan, which is another watching, exhibition of weap- is poised to have a fantas- How are you of our mega festivals – Na- they are short-haul destina- great example of Border Tour- ons, photo gallery and a film tic tourism infrastructure Qpromoting yourself vratri in September/October tions for India. ism in India. Infrastructure on BSF. for both the inbound and CDTQCF! and the Rann Utsav in De- provided at the site includes domestic tourists. Gujarat Tourism for the cember/January through Fam WJCV RTQFWEVU CTG audio-visual room, retreat The state’s Tourism past few years has been reg- trips. Inbound traffic sees its Qyou promoting in the ceremony area, amphitheatre, Policy 2015-20 has become ularly participating in mega peak in Gujarat between Sep- OCTMGVEWTTGPVN[! VIP lounge, food stalls, public a tremendous success. Till tourism fairs of WTM London tember and February. Currently, we are promot- toilets, selfie zone and view- date there are 220 applica- Reaching Out and ITB Berlin and we plan to ing our various destinations ing tower. Special attractions tions for various tourism We reach out to the participate in these shows this How big is your through festivals of Navratri, include retreat ceremony by projects like hotels, resorts, LQERXQGGRPHVWLFDJHQWV financial year too. We reach QFQOGUVKEOCTMGV! followed by Rann Utsav and the Border Security Forces amusement parks, etc HVVHQWLDOO\GXULQJWZRRI out to the inbound/domestic About 72.3 per cent of International Kite Festival. We (BSF), fusion band perform- worth `9,000 crore. So in our mega festivals- agents essentially during two the total flow of tourists this have recently started Seema ance, camel show and bird the next few years, Gujarat 1DYUDWULDQGWKH5DQQ8WVDY

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 8 03-11-2017 12:21:34 AGENTS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 9 Caper plans to give back with NGO Caper Travel Company is venturing into newer markets like the Middle East and China and is planning to support smaller tourism units under its banner. Bharat Bhushan Atree, Managing Director, Caper Travel Company, elaborates on the company’s vision and opines the way forward to boost inbound tourism.

TT BUREAU In the near future, them a sense of pride in Q what are the plans It is our endeavour to continue to expand in allied services. Our their own history and culture. 9JCV PGY ECP DG for expansion of the Though India has evolved QGZRGEVGF HTQO %CRGT EQORCP[! latest and upcoming project is to open an NGO under with regard to tourism and 6TCXGN%QORCP[! Expansion is an on- CSR with the aim to provide basics for the under- hospitality infrastructure over Caper Group is venturing going process and it is the past few decades, the into newer territories such as a prerequisite for any SULYLOHJHGFKLOGUHQDQGVHQLRUFLWL]HQV:HKDYH need of the hour is addition the Middle East and China. organisation to survive and also started working towards making Caper Group of more soft skills, values, There is also a regular up- sustain. At Caper, we experiences, a warm and gradation and introduction of are expanding our D3XEOLF/LPLWHG&RPSDQ\LQFRPLQJWLPHV positive atmosphere, peace new products for clients from horizons through the acqui- Bharat Bhushan Atree and maintenance of law and various parts of the world. We sition of smaller companies Managing Director, Caper Travel Company order to enhance India’s are opening offices not just which are unable to pre- popularity as a travel desti- in India but also overseas. serve themselves, bring- nation of choice. ASI should We have already branched ing them under the banner also invite and involve large into related services such and extending support in corporates or tour operators as flight handling with Jet finance, marketing, operations under the ‘Adopt a Heritage’ Concepts, software develop- and any other areas %CRGT 6TCXGNU you apart from the rest, but to stand united and seek campaign as a CSR activity ment with Softix, transport requiring assistance. Q TGEGKXGF VJG 0CVKQPCN they also add credibility to the favourable polices from for better upkeep, landscap- with Pegasus and hotel ac- Tourism Award this year. company especially for new the government instead of ing and beautification of the quisition, management and How will the 2NGCUGEQOOGPV agents from new markets. It adopting strategies which monument. This could be hospitality with Era. It is our Q XCTKQWU XGTVKECNU Caper Group has been definitely boosts business as it are detrimental for the tour- a great initiative and every endeavour to continue to ex- QH %6% DG KPUVTWOGPVCN the recipient of the National acknowledges reliability, repu- ism industry as a whole. We firm for whom this is com- pand in allied services. Our in growing inbound Award for Tourism now for tation and acceptability. all know that tourism is an mercially viable should latest and upcoming project VQWTKUOVQ+PFKC! eight times. To be recognised employment generator, for- engage themselves in this is to open an NGO under CTC has its verticals on a nationwide platform and AEEQTFKPI VQ [QW eign exchange earner, pro- endeavour. Over and above CSR with an aim to provide placed strategically in differ- chosen among the many Qwhat strategy should moter of art and culture and everything, I feel, we as citi- basics for the underprivileged ent markets to avoid a clash hundreds, adds laurels to our the tourism and hospitality hence, is a major contribu- zens have to be proud of our children and senior citizens. of interests. All verticals of the achievements. An award is not industry adopt to boost tor in the process of nation country’s heritage, culture We have also started working group are profitable and work just for oneself but for the en- India’s position on the building. There is an inherent and diversity. It is only then towards making Caper Group in a way that complement tire staff who works unwearied INQDCNVQWTKUOOCR! need to sensitise the masses can we expect foreign tour- a Public Limited Company in rather than compete with to provide services to each In today’s times, it is regarding the importance of ists to show interest and visit the coming times. each other. traveller. Awards not only set important for the industry tourism and thereby, give our country.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 9 03-11-2017 12:21:36 STATES Kerala to exhibit the unexplored Kerala’s tourism department will soon launch a promotional campaign for the European and North American markets to showcase Northern Kerala, which includes unexplored destinations like Kozhikode, Wayanad, Bekal and Kannur and Malappuram. P. Bala Kiran, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, reveals more about their plans...

tourism department truly un- fast-track clearance for tour- in Kerala through participa- HAZEL JAIN derstands the significance of ism projects and residential tion and partnerships. The How is Kerala PPP model for overall growth tariff for home-stays. state government also plans Qpromoting itself in the of the tourism sector. We to develop 10 eco-tourism KPVGTPCVKQPCNOCTMGV! believe in being a promoter HQY OWEJ CTG [QW circuits to connect various Kerala Tourism has of the industry, rather than Qinvesting in upgrading forests in order to promote planned several B2B meets a regulator. The state has VQWTKUOKPHTCUVTWEVWTG! green tourism. across high-potential interna- been following robust in- With the aim to increase tional markets such as the UK, frastructural development the geographical spread of WJCV CURGEVU QH VJG France, Spain, Germany, Rus- plans through responsible and arrivals to the state, Kerala QVQWTKUORQNKE[CTG[QW sia, West Asia, China, Japan, sustained tourism. Tourism plans to promote HQEWUKPIQPTKIJVPQY! North America and Australia. its Malabar region aggres- With the prime focus on As part of the ambitious pro- We have Kerala’s first sively through a Rs 325 crore promoting adventure tour- motional campaign for the on- BOT (build, operate, transfer) project, which includes unex- ism, the department has going financial year 2017-18, model, eco-tourism project plored destinations such as been working closely with Kerala Tourism has planned under the PPP model called Kozhikode, Wayanand, Bekal the State Forest Department. 24 roadshows and 12 trade ‘Jatayu Earth's Center’. It and Kannur. The joint endeavour will result fairs with an estimated cost of around Rs 11.5 crore. The Department has chosen inter- Middle East is one of the high-potential markets national markets for the trade events after analysing tourist IRU.HUDOD:HUHFHQWO\ODXQFKHG¶

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 10 03-11-2017 12:21:37 AGENTS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 11 Seven companies under 28% growth expected for STHI ¶$GRSW$+HULWDJH6FKHPH· Gagan Kumar, Director, STHI Group, believes that by offering new Arun Jaitley, Union Finance ments, Jajpur, Odisha. Yatra On- destinations and products to the customers, they would achieve double digit and Corporate Affairs Minister, line Pvt. Ltd. would adopt Hampi, presented the Letters of Intent Karnataka; Leh Palace, J&K; growth this year. They are now creating a list of exotic destinations. to seven shortlisted companies Qutub Minar, Delhi and Ajanta under ‘Adopt a Heritage Scheme’ Caves, Maharashtra. Travel Cor- of MOT at the closing ceremony poration of India Ltd. was short- tinations which are popular much. “MICE business is just all our efforts in streamlining of Paryatan Parv held at listed for Mattancherry Palace TT BUREAU among Indians currently are the same from India, and is giving one stop solution to Lawns, New Delhi on October Museum, Kochi and Safdarjung agan Kumar, Director, “Singapore, Hong Kong and like old wine in a new bottle,” our esteemed clients.” 25. Stakeholders from hospital- Tomb, Delhi. Adventure Tour GSTHI Group has been in Macao for short haul travel, he said. ity, travel and banking industries Operator Association of India the business for quite some while Australia is popular for were shortlisted for final selec- (ATOAI) would adopting Gangotri time. Under his leadership, those preferring to travel long With the advent of tech- Survival ofWKHÀWWHVW tion of Monument Mitras. SBI Temple Area and Trail to Gau- the company is growing year haul, as all these destinations nology things have changed  7KHFRPSDQ\LV Foundation was shortlisted for the mukh, as well as Mt. Stok Kangri, on year. Talking about the have kids friendly attractions,” for better in the travel indus- UHTXLUHGWRRIIHU adoption of Jantar Mantar, Delhi, Ladakh, J&K. Special Holidays growth figures for the cur- he revealed. try. Kumar agreed, saying, new products and while TK International Limited Travel Pvt. Ltd., along with Rotary rent year, he said, “We have “Technology is definitely add- services for custom- would be adopting Sun Temple, Club of Delhi were shortlisted for seen a 19 per cent increase In terms of MICE, he ing value to our work ethos, ers to sustain in the Konark; Raja Rani Temple, Bhu- , Delhi and NBCC in numbers from previous said that the MICE business which is eventually rolling up LQGXVWU\WRGD\ baneshwar and Ratnagiri Monu- would adopt Purana Quila, Delhi. year and now we hope to from India has not changed to our goals in collaborating scale this growth up to 28 per cent,” he said.

In order to reach this tar- get, they are doing a number of things and offering new prod- ucts to customers regularly. “Right now, we are creating a list of exotic destinations for repeat travellers. We still need to finalise the same and we will be putting it across once it is done. It is required to offer new products for customers to sustain in the industry today,” added Kumar.

Gagan Kumar Director STHI Group, India Travel Award Winner

We have seen DSHUFHQW increase in numbers from SUHYLRXV\HDUDQG now we hope to scale this growth XSWRSHUFHQW

Talking further regarding how the industry is changing with the times, he said, “The travel fraternity is amalga- mating all services under one roof these days. However, my opinion is different in this re- gard—an agent or an opera- tor should do only one thing that they excel in. According to me, this kind of approach is better in the long run.”

Today, India is one of the biggest markets when it comes to travel, with increas- ing number of people opting to travel both domestically and internationally. They are exploring popular, as well as new destinations and experi- ences. In his opinion, the des-

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 11 03-11-2017 12:21:39 12 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 ASSOCIATIONTALK Understanding a new world order Nakul Anand, Executive Director, ITC Hotels, at the recently-concluded FHRAI Annual Convention, shared his vision on how global trends are ushering in a technological era for travel and hospitality.

KANCHAN NATH to give up alcohol and choco- explains Anand. He further and everything, companies future generations. Anand will be led by China at $199 lates to get it back. Social me- adds, “There has been a be- are constantly seeking to up says, “This is what we call billion, followed by India at akul Anand claims that dia is beyond jurisdiction, it’s havioural shift; a mass meet- their game. “In this world, the ‘Curse of excess’. Glo- $91.2 billion.” Nwith the rise of digital ownerless. It consumes, pun- ing and online culture has there are no secrets; there is bal consumption levels are and mobile consumer usage, ishes, damages and destroys emerged where individuals only transparency of prices, five times of what they were Trend 4: Health the control has completely in seconds. Numbers are con- share, engage, create and opinions and standards. That 50 years ago. All this comes There is more and more gone into the hands of the stantly on the rise- Facebook collaborate, contrasting the is what we call ‘Responsibil- with a price tag- there has interest in wanting to be consumers. “We see a flurry today has 1.18 billion users; century-old dimension of ity Revolution’, where only fair been an 82 per cent increase healthy. There is no point in of industry changes. Online YouTube has 1 billion users; me, myself and I. The shift trade can survive. Efficiency is in carbon dioxide over the having money if you don’t search engines are explor- in 60 seconds, 16 million text is from ‘me’ to ‘we’. Genera- a minimum threshold attribute, last 52 years. It now takes have good health. Anand ing advertising models and messages are sent and 156 waiting for service is unpalat- the earth one year and six feels that health, wealth and metasearch companies are million emails are sent; 120 able, and patience is a rare months to regenerate what looking good are high on the moving to assisted bookings. new accounts are created on virtue. We are an on-demand we use in a single year. We priority list of most people. There is a blurring of industry LinkedIn and 342,000 mobile society. ‘Nowism’ is fuelled by are indeed living danger- They are increasingly talk- value chains and data is the applications are downloaded.” a cash-rich, time-poor society. ously. The way forward is ing about controlled diets new oil. The travel industry Saving time, the new currency, that we must try and live off and health farms. People remains the leader in e-com- Emergence of the is the greatest luxury. There the ‘interest’ of the planet’s are staying healthy longer merce maturity, with high on- online culture is a new breed of business resources and not take the and living longer. Wellness line penetration. It is this twin Everyone today is a travellers that live by the rules ‘capital’, the non-renewable tourism, by the end of this rise of mobiles and social socialite, true privileges they break, connect through resources. Almost one-third year, is expected to grow to media that has made all the are those that are earned disconnect and believe in re- of the world’s population more than $675 billion. difference,” he says. on merit. Anand describes lationships, not statuses. They agrees that ‘Green’ is not this ‘Statusphere’ as a so- work from the couch and not only a cool thing to do but is Trend 5: Security Nakul Anand Anand elaborates on the cial status that measures Executive Director from the desk. They are not in- also the right thing to do.” We are living in a world five major global trends that your ‘statusfaction’. “Status ITC Hotels dulgent, but when they travel, that is extremely suscepti- will be influencing the world boosters boost your ‘status they are zero-waste travellers,” Trend 3: Geopolitics ble to terror attacks. Effec- and every business. skills’. Earlier, only the very says Anand. Today, Asia is at the tive security will not come rich, and being extremely tion-G endorses generosity centre of most things. Re- from barbed wires or more Trend 1: Technology small in number, would enter as the leading societal and Trend 2: Sustainability iterating this fact, Anand guards and guns, it will Smartphone this sphere; today, every hu- business mindset.” The information and says, “More than 50 per come from accepting a new and social media man being who has access technology explosion has cent of the global traffic will reality that the world order Anand says, “Interesting- to the internet can be part of Reviews- the new made human beings realise come from the Atlantic. If we has changed. We ourselves ly, 79 per cent of people say it. The more you share, the advertisement that we have not inherited go by the origin of traveller, need to ensure that we pro- that if their cell phone were tak- higher your social status and With instant online re- the earth from our predeces- the maximum travel expendi- vide as much security as we en away, they would be ready the higher your satisfaction,” views available for anything sors but borrowed it from ture in Asia Pacific in 2030 can at hotels.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 12 03-11-2017 12:21:41 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 13 03-11-2017 12:21:44 14 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 STATES Lucknow takes centre stage Odisha brings immense potential st at 1 7UDYHO7UDGH0DUW Ashok Chandra Panda, Minister of State, Department of Tourism, Government The Travel Trade Associa- of Uttar Pradesh, inaugurated of Odisha, shares that they are implementing policies that would strengthen the tion of Uttar Pradesh (TTAUP), the mart. Vivek Pandey, Presi- a local travel trade association dent, TTAUP, says, “This is the state’s agenda of furthering its tourism spectrum. of the state, organised its first first time we have hosted such Travel Trade Mart (TTM) 2017 in a show. We felt that many times Lucknow. As many as 30 exhibi- it was not possible for the trade TT BUREAU Temple in Konark, and the have made no compromise tors showcased their products in UP to attend shows in Delhi, Mukteshvara and Lingaraja with the safety and security to the travel agents and tour Mumbai, Chennai and other comprehensive plan has temples in Bhubaneswar. Eco- of tourists visiting the state. To operators of UP. These exhibi- metro cities and unfortunately Abeen drawn for efficiently tourism, ethnic tourism, Bud- make their visit hassle-free, tors encompassed all segments not many shows come to UP. and effectively tapping Odi- dhist tourism, MICE, etc., have we have introduced police pa- sha’s tourism potential, tar- gained momentum. Nature trolling in the Puri- Konark and geting a substantial increase has been very kind to Odisha; Puri-Satpura regions. Tourist in arrivals to the state. Talking it is unique in its mineral and Police has been introduced in about these initiatives, Ashok natural resources with almost places frequented by domestic Chandra Panda, Minister of 35 per cent of the state cov- and international travellers. We State, Department of Tour- Ashok Chandra Panda ered with dense forests. It has have sound and light shows at Minister of State, Department of Tourism, ism, Government of Odisha, Government of Odisha a coastline of 480 kms and the Dhauli, where the Kalinga bat- at the inaugural session of largest brackish water body, tle was fought in 200 BC, and FHRAI’s 52nd Annual Con- Lake Chilika.” also at the thirteenth-century vention, said, “Odisha was Odisha has fabu- Konark Sun Temple. If CRZ the host state for FHRAI’s lous tourist spots Relax GST of norms are eased, it will give golden jubilee convention. spread across the 28 per cent a boost to coastal-circuit tour- We also recently concluded Odisha, of late, has ism. In the Samuda project, the IATO convention. In an- length and breadth emerged as an investment 1000 acres of land has been of tourism and hospitality like The purpose is to offer a plat- other initiative, we, along with of the state, and destination in the country, procured for construction of cruises, tourism boards, destina- form to the agents of the state FICCI, have invited the tour- eastern ports specifically for hospitality. “We world-class infrastructure for tion management companies, to gather product knowledge, ism industry to the first Odi- formed a new tourism policy a tourism project that will cater hotels, airlines, etc. The show information and be connected sha Travel Bazaar, which was which make it an in 2016, one of the most at- to the requirements of high- was attended by over 200 travel to the various suppliers directly held between October 15 and ideal destination tractive tourism policies in end tourists. agents and tour operators from rather than route it through big- 17, 2017, in Bhubaneswar. for tourists the whole country. Investors various cities in Uttar Pradesh ger cities. This would allow us to Odisha has fabulous tourist can derive maximum benefits At the recently con- like Lucknow, Kanpur, Bijnor, contain business of UP within spots that are spread across from this policy for speedy cluded IATO conference in Allahabad, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, UP and grow the tourism indus- the length and breadth of the arrivals to the state is about 9 clearance of tourism projects Odisha, a lot of concern was Agra, Mau, Muradabad, etc. Rita try in the state. This year was state, and eastern ports that per cent, which is more than on fast-track basis and single- expressed by delegates on Bahuguna Joshi, Minister of an experiment and it turned out make it an ideal destination for the global tourist arrival rate window clearance systems. the 28 per cent GST on the Women Welfare, Family Wel- extremely well. Next year, we will tourists. The state has some of 4 per cent. This is a positive Odisha’s image has also been hospitality sector. To promote fare, Maternity and Child Wel- increase the scale and scope of destinations from the Stone sign for the state. Odisha has transformed with the success- tourism, the GST of 28 per fare and Tourism, Government this show manifolds.” Age that are still unexplored. magnificent temples with Ja- ful organisation of the Asian cent needs to be relaxed,” Presently, growth of tourist gannath Temple in Puri, Sun Athletics Championships. We added Panda.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 14 03-11-2017 12:21:45 QUICKBYTES NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 15 Adventure abound beyond Himalayas The Ministry of Tourism, in its revamped campaign - Incredible India 2.0, plans to lay emphasis on developing and promoting adventure tourism to India. Industry stakeholders and key players identify new circuits beyond the Himalayas, challenges in the industry and suggest the way forward to boost this segment of travel.

ANKITA SAXENA We are looking forward to the government’s initiative and its impact on the adventure travel sector. Besides the full-throttle exposure and promotion of new activities and destinations, my strong recom- I believe adventure tourism is the mendation to the government would be an equal emphasis on bringing out the right regulation and only segment of travel that has the safety guidelines for adventure tourism across India. Adventure is a niche travel activity and safety is capacity to double the Indian tourism always a major concern. Therefore, such regulation and standardisation is fundamental for long-term economy within two years and wipe growth in this sector along with aggressive promotional plans. The government needs to work with lo- out the lean season during summers cal operators in various regions to understand the potential, niche advantages and opportunities of the as the Himalayas offer the perfect destinations and also establish local infrastructure for adventure tourism. In addition to the Himalayas, location during this season. There there are exciting and growing adventure opportunities across the diverse Indian landscape, be it in is a need to develop accessibility Sanjay Basu the traditionally leisure destinations such as Kerala and Rajasthan, which are opening up to adventure Ravi Tickoo into remote areas with a three-tier air Managing Director, tourism; the tribal belt of Chhattisgarh; Rann of Kutch in Gujarat; Madhya Pradesh, etc. Managing Director Far Horizon Tours connectivity of wide-bodied Active India Holidays aircrafts to easily connect- able destinations. Small turbo props, fixed wing air- crafts and seaplanes need to be deployed to remote regions with Greenfield air- strips. Also, choppers can be used to traverse the vari- ous regions in the Himalayas and the islands. Extensive publicity of Indian adventure tourism attractions is also very important to boost this segment.

Mohan Tickoo Founder and Managing Director, KVT Holidays

The government needs to consider zero-tax on ad- venture tourism, at least for a few years, as this segment is the worst hit by GST due to Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM) applicable on services sourced from the unorgan- ised sector. Adventure tour- ism is largely dependent on the services procured from the unorganised sector like porters, ponies and field staff that include mountain guides, sherpas, camping staff, small lodges and homestays and thus, due to GST, the package cost for all adventure activities in the Himalayan region has gone up by 20-23 per cent. India is blessed with a long coastline, deserts, rivers and many other natural heritage sites where adventure and active travel products can flourish. We have huge poten- tial for aero sports and water tourism in the country. Inland waterways and sea cruising along with water adventure sports is possible in states and union territories like An- daman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep Islands, Ker- ala, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Ben- gal, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Ma- harashtra, Gujarat, Goa and Daman and Diu.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 15 03-11-2017 12:21:47 16 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 ASSOCIATIONTALK FHRAI: Progression with prowess Garish Oberoi has been elected as the new President of FHRAI for the term September 2017-18. Oberoi has been in the hospitality industry for over three decades. He previously held the post of Vice President and Treasurer, FHRAI. In an exclusive interview, he tells us about his vision for the Association and plans that would help fulfil it.

KANCHAN NATH We have been trying to Tell us about the Committee (EC) as well as other regions, the same peo- convince the government to QXKUKQP FQEWOGPV HQT outside it. FHRAI’s consti- ple have been coming in for What will you be not treat us as a luxury. The VJG#UUQEKCVKQP. tution says that you can be the last 3-4 years and that’s QEQPEGPVTCVKPI QP CU GST slab of 28 per cent is The vision document for on the EC Board for eight where the concern was; they 2TGUKFGPVQH(*4#+! still very high. We had been FHRAI was first started by one continuous years and then do have their own reasons The last tenure of the fighting for a low slab of 8 per of our former President Kam- you must take a break, post though. I reached out to President and the Board saw cent and will keep fighting lesh Barot. I am taking a cue which you can come back some of the senior past pres- a very shaky year for the hos- to get a slab of 12 per cent from that document and also for four more. The last EC idents who were unhappy pitality industry from demon- across the Board to try and trying to bring all four presi- Board wanted to make some with the changes in the con- etisation and the liquor ban end the 18 and 28 per cent dents on the same page so changes to that because it stitution and I assured them to getting used to the GST. In slabs. I do hope that we get that once we have a consen- felt that in 2018, 60 per cent that as I take over, I will have Garish Oberoi the liquor ban issue, we went some success on that. My President sus, we will have a vision doc- of the Board, that is, the a consensus with everybody to court and the state govern- agenda is that I will be meet- FHRAI ument for the next five years of elders on the Board, may and have a feasible solution ments as well. A lot of effort ing, through my Board and FHRAI. One of the key items have to retire because of to the issue. That consensus and energy went into that; I personally, the finance min- Embracing the on the vision document is to this constitution. There was has been given and everyone am happy to say that we could isters of different states and encourage the membership a debate within the Board is now on the same page. win 90 per cent of the battle, try and get them on board to digital age, it is base. The other is to bring all wherein they said that they where the court appreciated reduce this further. imperative that the the regional associations and should retire, but only one Where is the next our situation and most of the other travel trade associa- by one and not in one go be- QCPPWCN EQPXGPVKQP hotels and bars that were af- Industry status, catego- Association tions on the same platform as cause then the experience UNCVGFVQVCMGRNCEG! fected by the ban were eventu- risation of hotels in Red and FHRAI. I am looking forward that they held would not The next convention will ally reopened. There are still a other concerns on guidelines provides information to implementing that this year be passed on. be taking place in Lucknow. few bars and restaurants that issued by CPCB and MoEF, to all stakeholders itself. All associations are The convention has never are left since there is a little dialogue with Ministry of working together but they are FHRAI is a dynamic taken place there in the lacuna at the Gram Pancha- Consumer Affairs, issues re- LQVWDQWO\WKURXJKDOO being represented individu- body where the six Board past; it will be a new destina- yat as well. There are states lated to MRP, PPL and IPRS, kinds of social media ally; they should all be brought members are from different tion and the city now offers like Kerala and Maharashtra and FSSAI regulations are under FHRAI, that being regions. So, it’s up to the good connectivity as well. where the Gram Panchayats the major areas wherein the the parent body. region whether they want to Numerous 3-star, 4-star, are the challenging areas, Association needs to focus digital age. Providing infor- repeat the person or have and 5-star hotels have come forestalling the opening of new in days to come. The Asso- mation to all stakeholders IU VJGTG TGEWTTKPI a new person come in. In up in Lucknow. We have hotels, restaurants and bars. ciation also needs to adapt instantly through all kinds of QHCEVKQPCNKUOKP(*4#+! the North, we have always some exciting things in store We must address this issue to the pace of the chang- social media is the need of There had been some been repeating, as also for all our members in 2018 and it is a top priority for me. ing world by embracing the the hour. dissent within the Executive in the West. In a couple of in Lucknow.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 16 03-11-2017 12:21:48 STATES NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 17 Goa invests in tourism infrastructure The state tourism board is serious about developing the coastal circuit and providing basic tourism infrastructure like public conveniences at key beach locations with an investment of `270 crore (around USD 41 million).

HAZEL JAIN ETV regime Dsouza says, “Goa is a tiny Needless to say, the sports events are held in Goa the Middle East. The latest one Countries on radar state but stretched over with eVisa regime offered at the by international sports organi- was the International Trade hile promoting the state Goa’s new Tourism Policy beautiful beaches, historical Goa International Airport in sations. While we are focusing Fair for Travel & Tourism Forum Win international markets, will also be finalised soon that sites and wildlife. We promote Dabolim extended to 150 on key markets in UK, Middle at OTDYKH 2017 in Moscow. Goa’s tourism department will give a push to Goa Tour- each and every location of Goa, countries, has taken off in a East and South East Asia, we has also been simultane- ism. Several discussions and be it the waterfalls, museums, big way and is showing good are also reaching out to the ously building on infrastructure meetings have already been forts, churches, temples, home- increase in numbers. The entire globe, especially those Goa Numbers and creating new adventure conducted in this regard and stays or our beaches. A variety state’s tourism department is countries that are under the Goa received a total of activities. Menino Dsouza, will be unveiled shortly. of elements like monsoon tour- therefore trying to tap tourists ETV regime,” Dsouza adds. IRUHLJQYLVLWRUV Director of Tourism, Govern- ism, eco and wellness tourism, from these 150 countries. “Goa LQ7KLV\HDUXSWR ment of Goa, reveals more. Speaking about the aspect cuisine, festival tourism, herit- is also growing as a MICE des- Goa continues to par- 0DUFKWKHVWDWHKDV He says, “We hope to start of Goa that the state’s tourism age tourism, adventure tourism tination and many corporate ticipate in key travel and DOUHDG\UHFHLYHG full-fledged operations of the department wants to push and medical tourism are all pro- companies want to host events trade fairs, roadshows held in international tourists. Duck Boats as well as new in the international markets, moted in international markets.” here. So also many mega Moscow, London, Berlin and

Menino Dsouza Director of Tourism Government of Goa Our focus is to develop the coastal circuit and provide public conven- iences such as toilets, changing rooms, locker facilities, proper access and parking facilities at NH\EHDFKORFDWLRQV

activities like bungee-jumping, Segway tours, and horse- riding. Our focus is to develop the coastal circuit and provide public conveniences such as toilets, changing rooms, locker facilities, proper access and parking facilities at key beach locations.” Goa Tour- ism is also looking at open- ing tourist information centres on beaches.

All this infrastructure, Dsouza says, will come through the investment that the Centre as well as the state is making. The Union Ministry for Tourism un- der the ‘Swadesh Darshan Scheme’ has sanctioned Rs 200 crore to Goa. While Rs 100 crore has been sanc- tioned in the first phase, an- other Rs 100 crore has been sanctioned in the second phase. Coastal areas, both in North and South Goa, will be covered in both phases. “The Goa government is committed on completing the infrastructure projects under this scheme within the next one year. There is also a state component of Rs 70 crore which will be used for tourism infrastructure,” Dsouza adds.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 17 03-11-2017 12:21:49 18 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 STATES Karnataka tourism is flourishing RV Deshpande, Minister for Large & Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development, Government of Karnataka, talks about Karnataka’s growing popularity as a tourism destination and policies to help further this.

TT BUREAU as Karnataka is concerned, Union government was seri- ments in Karnataka have been for roadshows in the UK and tourism is our thrust sector. In ously considering relaxation friendly to the industry and speak about Karnataka and here is a dire need to the last four years, we have of CRZ norms. I was a part supported investments. We its capital city, Bengaluru. To- Tpromote infrastructure strived to improve roads for of that. It will give a boost to brought Karnataka Tourism In- day, Bengaluru is recognised development in the country better connectivity for tour- tourism in the South. Mahar- frastructure Limited on the fast as one of the most dynamic for other sectors to thrive. ism. Karnataka has always ashtra, Odisha, Karnataka, track, supported facilities at cities of the world. It is the big- Addressing the audience at been a visionary state. The Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu tourist destinations and facili- gest R&D centre with more FHRAI’s 52nd Annual Con- budget for tourism in Kar- and Kerala would benefit. If tated PPP models. We wanted than 500 international com- vention held in Bengaluru, nataka has brought about beach resorts can come up to develop Cauvery, Mysuru, panies carrying out research RV Deshpande, Minister for rich dividends. Footfalls have 15, 20 or 30 metres from the Pandya, Chamunda Nagar, here. Now, whenever I travel Large & Medium Industries increased and we are one High Tide Line (HTL), why do and Guru among others. The abroad, I no longer have to RV Deshpande and Infrastructure Develop- of the top five states in the Minister for Large & Medium Industries and we restrict them to 250 me- Cauvery Tourism Develop- explain to others which part ment, Government of Kar- country leading in tourism.” Infrastructure Development, Government tres? I think the matter needs ment Authority has also been of the country Bengaluru be- of Karnataka nataka, said, “Tourism is the to be taken up once more. formed to develop tourism longs to. Karnataka has all highest employment gen- Tourism for the Relaxation of CRZ norms will along the Cauvery belt. We kinds of tourism opportunities erator. No sector can add common man )RRWIDOOVLQ.DUQDWDND give a boost to tourism in the also brought The Karnataka and the richest potential. It has as much employment as A new wave of travel entire area. Security in tour- Tourism Trade (Facilitation and eco-tourism, medical tourism, tourism can. India’s biggest has taken over the world have increased and we ism, especially for women, Regulation) Act, 2015 to bring beach tourism and spiritual concern is still employment and more people are getting is another area of concern. more investment in tourism; tourism. We don’t have snow, as automation, digitalisation hooked to this fast-paced DUHRQHRIWKHWRSÀYH In Karnataka, we have most states do not have this. but we can create that as and robotics are replacing trend. “There was a time VWDWHVLQWKHFRXQWU\ taken a lot of initiatives to well,” said Deshpande while human beings. The world when tourism was restricted achieve this.” Another area of concern speaking about the popular- has become competitive, and to a certain section of the so- leading in tourism, is that of guides. Since we did ity that the city as well as the quality and consumer satis- ciety, only the well-off could bringing about Karnataka for tourism not have professional guides, state have garnered over faction have become the or- have the benefit. Today, tour- and investment we selected a few and trained the past years. der of the day. We hope that ism has reached the com- rich dividends Promoting tourism them in foreign languages. by 2025, India will have the mon people. They all want doesn’t come easy and every The industry must look into largest young population in to travel with their families, minute detail needs to be this. If we have good human CRZ Concerns the world. so now when we develop looked over. It is essential that resources in terms of guides, tourism, we need to see the Relax CRZ norms and the building blocks of the sec- security and road officials, Relaxation of CRZ norms Infrastructure must also needs of those people as improve security tor are strengthened along tourism will flourish.” will give a boost to tourism improve. Karnataka is one of well. Infrastructure remains Tourism in coastal states with identification of realms in the entire area the best-connected states in the key for any development has not grown much. Reit- that hold potential. Addressing Bengaluru beckoning It will give a boost to the country vis-à-vis national be it economic, social or any erating this thought, Desh- a rapt audience, Deshpande “There was a time in tourism in the South and district highways. As far other,” added Deshpande. pande said, “I remember the said, “Successive govern- 1995-96 when I used to go

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 18 03-11-2017 12:21:51 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 19 03-11-2017 12:21:53 20 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 STATES Chandigarh- UP tourism policy on the cards Bangkok direct ÁLJKWIURP Uttar Pradesh is planning to release its draft Tourism Policy 2017 by November this year to December 11 strengthen its tourism sector. The state will also focus on developing tourist infrastructure and will soon chart out an aggressive marketing and promotional campaign to attract more tourists. Air India is set to start its first direct flight to Bangkok from Chandigarh from De- ANKITA SAXENA policy receives the Cabinet’s tourist visits to the state and introducing light and sound cember 11. The announce- approval, it will soon be re- 3rd in terms of foreign tourist shows at key attractions, ment is significant, following ttar Pradesh is abound leased. The industrial policy footfalls, but this is not sat- laser shows are being intro- a long delay in the starting Uin tourism products of the state is in place and isfactory. Given the products duced; we also sanctioned of the flight due to delivery of of every kind, be it herit- under the Tourism Policy we have in UP and the scope, `170 crore for the beauti- new aircraft to the Air India. age and culture, religious of 2017, a lot of incentives UP should be number one in fication of parks and land- tourism, spiritual tourism, have been provided to the all forms of travel.” scaping of the Taj Mahal.” eco-tourism, wildlife tour- private players and inves- ism, etc., but still does not tors.” She further elaborates Travel agents and tour Uttar Pradesh is also draw as many tourists as that of the total tourist arriv- operators are the backbone working on strengthening its it is capable of, feels Rita als to Uttar Pradesh, a major of the tourism industry and hospitality segment, for which Bahuguna Joshi, Minister share is contributed by reli- Rita Bahuguna Joshi the government has deep the state tourism department Minister of Tourism, of Tourism, Government gious and spiritual tourists Government of Uttar Pradesh interest in growing this sec- plans on offering various in- The first flight is said to land of Uttar Pradesh. She ex- and the state is working very tor with policy initiatives centives and subsidies to the at Chandigarh Airport on De- plains that the state has hard to strengthen this seg- and incentives for them, private players of the sector. cember 11 at 9.20 am and the charted out its plan of action ment by way of providing the Of the total tourist asserts Joshi. She explains Other key focus areas of the same flight would then depart where firstly, it is identify- tourists with advanced, that the state is focusing on state are to develop wildlife for Bangkok at 2 pm and would ing key destinations where state-of-the-art facilities. DUULYDOVLQ83DPDMRU showcasing the vast herit- tourism and eco-tourism. arrive in Bangkok at 8.15 pm they can provide tourists She opines that tourists VKDUHLVFRQWULEXWHGE\ age and culture and in ef- (Bangkok local time). The in- with incentives to stay for at need to be allowed to experi- religious and spiritual fect the tourism potential of augural fare for a round trip is least 1-2 nights. Also, Uttar ence the philosophy and his- the state through aggres- Ruling the roost said to be around Rs 22,000. Pradesh will work on ways tory behind each attraction tourists, and the state sive branding campaigns. The flight would operate thrice to enhance the day-tours which has been a topic of “Recently, we had floated Travel agents and a week. For the Chandigarh- to various key attractions to research across the world. is working hard to an Expression of Inter- tour operators are the Bangkok flight, Air India will give a better experience to strengthen this segment est and received propos- backbone of the tour- operate Airbus’s latest variant the visitors. Joshi feels that travel has als from various agencies. LVPLQGXVWU\DQGWKH government has deep A320 Neo. The carrier has 12 become a habit with people with advanced facilities The selected agency will interest in growing this business class seats and 150 Joshi says, “We have who can afford it and those be responsible for devising VHFWRUZLWKSROLF\LQLWLD- seats for the economy class. improvised upon the Tour- who cannot have aspirations the branding strategy for tives and incentives for The aircraft has better sitting ism Policy formulated in to travel. She adds, “Travel and position Uttar Pradesh Uttar Pradesh as well as them so as to showcase arrangements with additional 2016 by the previous gov- could be to nearby places or in order to attract a larger the Kumbh Mela, which we the tourism potential of leg space in both the classes. ernment and will release the to the farthest destinations. It number of tourists. We rank want to project as a major a particular state draft in November. Once the is up to us, how we present 2nd in India in terms of overall event in the state. We are

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 20 03-11-2017 12:21:55 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 21 03-11-2017 12:21:58 22 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 AGENTS First EDWIN conquers Ladakh The first Educational Destination Workshop-International (EDWIN) by Global Panorama Showcase (GPS) concluded recently in Ladakh. Harmandeep Singh Anand, Managing Director, GPS, shares how the first instalment of the workshop went and what are the key takeaways from it.

PRITI KHANNA FROM LADAKH may not have access to even BQVJ)25CPF'&9+0 WJCV CTG VJG MG[ tion in addition to the current though they may visit India Qtarget tour operators QVCMGCYC[U HTQO VJG summer months, which lasts How and when was for their product promotions. CPF&/%UKP6KGTII and Tier ſTUV'&9+0! for only about five months in Q'&9+0EQPEGKXGF! EDWIN includes a day of B2B III EKVKGU &Q [QW ſPF VJKU EDWIN participants have a year. EDWIN BY GPS was interaction in addition to vari- UGEVQT OQTG TGURQPUKXG gathered a lot of knowledge conceived as early as 2009 ous hotel inspections, product CPFEQOOKVVGF! about destination Ladakh and WJCV YGTG VJG OCLQT when it was still a part of Jag- orientation and experience by The purpose of GPS is some existing myths have QJKIJNKIJVU QH '&9+0 sons Travels. At that time, we the participating attendees, to educate and empower the been cleared by being there .CFCMJ! started taking travel agents who are referred as EDWIN’S. travel fraternity particularly in person. All attendees of We had CA Manish Gadia associated with us on educa- from the Tier II and III cities EDWIN-Ladakh are now better (GMJ & Co.) with us on this tional trips so as to give them What was the Harmandeep Singh Anand and EDWIN in due course will equipped to sell the destina- trip who interacted with the India Travel Award winner and Managing a first-hand experience of QTGURQPUG VQ VJG ſTUV Director, GPS create a level playing field for tion to their clientele, thereby attendees on GST matters. the destination. These were '&9+0JGNFKP.CFCMJ! these professionals. Though not only selling a package to We also did a session with the small groups of about 10-12 Within 24 hours of open- the target is agents from the client but rather a complete travel industry leaders, with re- agents. It was then we real- ing the registration for ED- EDWIN participants Tier II and III cities, but we experience with a whole lot of gards to GST and its implica- ised that pan India there are WIN – Ladakh, we received have gathered a lot also take on board seri- information on do’s and don’ts, tions to the region of Ladakh many such travel profession- close to 200 registrations. ous professionals from the as well as the precautions as as prior to July 8, 2017, there als who need hand-holding It had an overwhelming re- of knowledge about metro cities exceptionally. Ladakh is not like any of our were no taxes applicable to and destination education, sponse of 800 per cent as we destination Ladakh The main intent is to qualify other destinations and needs the region. We were very well enabling them to be a better had limited space for about agents who have attended our special guidance and planning. received by the people at large professional seller of a desti- 50 attendees only for the first and some existing GPS events. in Ladakh, as also the industry nation to their clients. edition of EDWIN to Ladakh. P\WKVKDYHEHHQ HQY FQ [QW VJKPM leaders of various organisa- What are your future Q'&9+0 YKNN DGPGſV tions were present to interact How different is Any reason to have FOHDUHGE\EHLQJ Qplans and vision VQWTKUO VQ .CFCMJ QT CP[ with our attendees. We plan to Q'&9+0 HTQO QVJGT QEJQUGP.CFCMJHQTVJG regarding'&9+0! future destination you do a larger EDWIN in Ladakh FamVTKRU! ſTUV'&9+0! there in person. We plan to have at least EJQQUG! in April 2018 in association In addition to familiarising Yes. Being in India, we felt six EDWIN destinations in a All EDWIN’S have with the complete travel trade the agents with the destina- that it would be ideal to start off year, and are working closely pledged to promote Ladakh as of the region In the current tion, it also gives an opportu- EDWIN from our home country kh—Tundup Dorjey from Over- with various entities, destina- a sustainable and responsible edition, we had participants nity to the local trade to get ex- itself. This is probably one of land Escape and Kamlesh tions and agents alike. The tourism destination, thereby from about 18 states and 35 posed to the agents from the the most secluded and less ex- Lalan from Ravine Trek, were intent of EDWIN is to bring the retaining the serenity of the cities across India who quali- Tier II and III cities PAN India, plored destinations, but one of very keen to get such a large travel fraternity of professionals region. We also informed and fied as Educational Destina- where the products and serv- the most desirable ones in the attendance from various parts closer and remove the territo- educated agents on promoting tion Workshop International ices from a particular region world. Our partners in Lada- of India into Ladakh. rial boundaries. Ladakh as a winter destina- Specialist (LADAKH). EDWIN: A true learning Hari Kishan Valmiki, Founder and Managing Partner, Valmiki Travel & Tourism Solultions, talks about the experience at the first-ever EDWIN which was held in Ladakh.

TT BUREAU sell such unique and niche products, you need personal WJ[FKF[QWEJQQUGVQ experience. This cannot be QRCTVKEKRCVG KP VJG ſTUV read and understood over '&9+0VQ.GJ.CFCMJ! Lonely Planet or watching a When every other or- travel channel on television. ganisation is giving famil- Since we have witnessed iarisation through webinars, what is the peak when we online tests and road shows, travelled above sea level it's only EDWIN who came – 18,500 ft - by touching forward with the focus on Hari Kishan Valmiki the Khardung-la, we have Founder and Managing Partner first-hand experience by Valmiki Travel & Tourism Solultions also understood what charging nominally and giv- kind of challenges our ing exposure to the desti- clients can face. This will nation of Leh Ladakh. The 0\REMHFWLYH help us in guiding them in beauty of inviting local emi- is to get a feel of a better way. nent personalities and get- ting them to speak about the product and 9QWNF [QW NKMG their own destination is an- experience Qto highlight any other attraction, which I think RCTVKEWNCTVJKPICDQWVVJKU was helpful. the extreme RTQITCOOG! cold weather Yes – This particular WGTG VJG QDLGEVKXGU product cannot be sold to QOGV! conditions with each and every client. I Definitely – as my ob- ORZR[\JHQOHYHOV will ensure that I educate jective is to get a feel of the and empower my fellow product and experience the travellers to be responsi- extreme cold weather with ble and help protect the low oxygen levels. I had Will this help you destination under Respon- been told about acclimatisa- QOCTMGV .GJ .CFCMJ sible Tourism, followed by tion, but have now come to better to your end Sustainable Tourism as understand it by undergoing EWUVQOGTU! Ladakh does not need one full day of doing nothing Of course, at the end of quantity but quality but acclimatising. the day, for the confidence to passengers.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 22 03-11-2017 12:22:00 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 23 03-11-2017 12:22:02 24 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 QUICKBYTES Experiences abundant at exhibitions International travel exhibitions not only make new and unheard-of products accessible to the Indian delegates but also help build confidence between business partners and nurture a relationship that can last a long time. The industry shares if these exhibitions are just a networking opportunity or bring in some serious business.

TT BUREAU Though the entire world is going Travel exhibitions are losing their online right now and information is importance these days. The tour Relevance of travel exhibitions de- available at your fingertips, the dis- operators cannot reach out to every pends on which exhibition we are dis- tribution channel for travel and tour- exhibition and therefore, have to cussing, as some are good and others ism products is still local. To spread pick and choose. Secondly, avail- are not. Many international exhibitions awareness about your brand and ability of all information on the In- are turning out to be the usual net- products, it is still important to be ternet is another reason. To add to working platforms or they’ve earned a visible in person and register your that, the overall expense is usually name where industry feels it is a must- presence. International exhibitions quite high and the returns on the to-attend event overlooking what offer that platform. It helps us meet same are quite poor. However, I feel the exhibition actually offers. Many Jatinder S. Taneja and network with potential busi- Sudhir Patil that some of the international travel Founder & Director times, sellers do not find the worth of Managing Director, Travel ness partners and more importantly, Homa Mistry Spirit International, India exhibitions are important to visit as Veena World the money they spent on participa- Travel Award winner build confidence between two par- CEO, Trail Blazer Tours, they offer a good platform for India Travel Award winner tion as they do not get good returns. ties – something that the internet cannot do. I have person- buyers and suppliers. The quality of visitors and hosted ally experienced these benefits. A 10-minute meeting has buyers is going down every year. concluded with us signing a million dollar business deal.

I feel international trade shows and The international exhibitions are The international travel exhibi- exhibitions are relevant only for the new no longer effective in promoting in- tions are a platform to bring the players in the market. However, the old bound tourism. The hefty amount of entire industry together under one companies have already established money spent does not bring returns. roof and are instrumental in updat- their clients in the international market The stalls are not manned by pro- ing oneself with new trends and and meet repeat buyers. These shows fessionals. The foreign tourist offices products. However, over the years, only serve as networking grounds for need to be updated with relevant in- there are too many of these similar them. I firmly believe that if inbound formation, digital product material and trade shows, and thus people are tourism has to be truly promoted, then knowledge of the market where they losing interest. Also, the quality of India should host its own travel show of Sarabjit Singh are promoting India. Rather than hav- Rajan Sehgal buyers is poor. These shows have Vikas Abbott an international standard to showcase India Travel Award winner ing multiple stalls of states, we should Director become only networking platforms. MD, Vasco Travel, India itself in its glory and diversity. and Managing Director, do product based marketing and Arrivals Air Services The functioning of these shows need Travel Award winner Travellite (India) states can display their offerings within these products. major change. Contd. on page 26

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 24 03-11-2017 12:22:07 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 25 03-11-2017 12:22:10 26 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 QUICKBYTES Build partnerships at the best avenue Contd. from page 24 Travel exhibitions are great meet- Over the years, most of the major Every industry needs a trade plat- ing places. These meetings create a travel exhibitions are losing their sheen. form that not only facilitates exchange bond and help start a lasting busi- The number of visitors and buyers is of ideas but also creates conducive ness relationship. IATO has been declining year-on-year especially in Eu- atmosphere of global peace through having wonderful conventions in the rope and UK-based exhibitions. There right ‘communication.’ Travel trade ex- past, wherein we have seen great are hardly any new buyers to promote hibitions are good exposure to all the ideas emerge. These exhibitions are India and exhibitions are more like travel trade representatives to share a great meeting place for the - meeting places with existing partners. ideas, upgrade, update and strengthen tic tourism industry. Only few states We need to look beyond these satu- AV Moorty themselves. As a tourism company, have very active tourism depart- rated markets and participate in coun- Director, Narayani Holidays, we would like to attend international Rajat Bagaria Viney Tyagi ments, which organise roadshows. Director try-based travel exhibitions that are India Travel Award winner travel trade exhibitions around the Managing Director, Thus, we as an industry, rely on Uni Crystal Holidays the new emerging source markets for world, which are great platforms to Shrishti Holidays these travel exhibitions to expand our inbound tourism for India. We need an meet our business objectives. An exhibition is the place horizon in terms of learning about destinations and to meet aggressive marketing and advertising campaign for brand where we can meet delegates of national and international with stakeholders from all parts of the country. Incredible India in the emerging markets. level from various sectors of tourism industry.

Technology may have shrunk the Attending travel shows and con- International travel exhibitions globe and many would say that the end ferences is an important business are meaningful as long as there are is approaching for international travel ex- practice that can benefit tour compa- healthy debates and discussions hibitions. However, it all depends upon the nies in many ways, including building alongside these exhibitions. Besides, planning, structure and content of the ex- professional relationships, meeting international travel exhibitions are hibitions that will ensure that they sustain the media, leveraging tips from other more of a branding exercise. For these in the long race. Many exhibitions have like-minded business, learning new shows to be relevant, it is important changed their format to keep pace with ideas from industry experts, gaining that tour operators, first-time visitors the times and quite a few have also re- an understanding of best practices, and younger travel agents take back invented themselves. The travel and hos- and of course, meeting new friends Nitin John something in terms of added knowl- Hector D’souza Louis D'souza along the way. edge, market information and valuable pitality fraternity looks forward to certain Executive Director Director President, L’orient Travels exhibitions which bring in quality buyers, Tamarind Global Services Riya Holidays contacts from these shows. have time-bound and value-added for- mats, and where the emphasis is on people rather than fancy ex- hibits. While ‘Incredible India’ did make an impact, we need to ask International travel exhibitions have relevance in the markets that they address. They are now ourselves the big question – ‘What will it take for us to rank among being segmented under MICE, luxury, weddings, etc., and cater to specific segments of tour oper- the top countries in tourism?’ We have everything and much more ators, travel companies and service providers. The challenge is to get the right mix of participants to attract every possible kind of tourist, but the numbers are just at these destinations to optimise the value for both the buyer and the exhibitor. There is also a risk not inclined to come our way. Tourism can be a real game changer of too many exhibitions happening in one location and that can cause confusion and also dilute benefitting various aspects of our economy. We should look at the the importance of international travel exhibitions. EASE of being tourist friendly… Evolved – technology friendly, Subhash Motwani Affordable – fitting every wallet, Simplified – processes like visa Contd. on page 29 applications, Exciting – making a tourists visit truly memorable. Director, Namaste Tourism

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 26 03-11-2017 12:22:13 AGENTS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 27 Buyout to strengthen TrawellTag *67GHPRQHWLVDWLRQPD\ Not only will TrawellTag Cover-More benefit from Zurich’s superior IT systems, LPSDFWZHGGLQJV$662&+$0

brand credibility and access to capital, but also offer a robust protection to The upcoming wedding sea- likely to face much adverse son starting in November may impact of GST and demoneti- customers, acting as a game changer for the company in the India market. be impacted by 10-15 per cent, sation as it is already a costly particularly wedding services affair which mainly lures for- treat them there, or ensure Highlighting other advan- policy issuance system or the like marriage garden/marriage eigners, NRIs, rich and fa- HAZEL JAIN that the line of treatment they tages of this acquisition, Kar- back-end system, or servers. hall booking, tent booking, mous people for weddings at pecialist travel insur- are getting is correct.” vat says, “One is of course, We can use their entire IT in- confectionery services, pho- beaches and royal palaces, Sance company Trawell- we get this huge brand cred- frastructure to accelerate our tography and more, reveals in- says the ASSOCHAM paper. Tag Cover-More has much to Karvat adds that WTP as ibility of Zurich. They have growth in the Indian market as dustry chamber ASSOCHAM. All footwear above Rs.500 is celebrate this festive season. the integrated entity takes that very large underwriting capa- well as the other markets that The GST rate on most of these taxed at a whopping 18 per When the Swiss-based Zu- value proposition a few notch- bilities including re-insurance. we are present at. The third services has risen from 18 to cent. Tax on gold and diamond rich Insurance Group (Zurich) es higher for TrawellTag Cover- That brings huge capabilities aspect we can leverage is the 28 per cent. Destination wed- jewellery has increased from bought 100 per cent stake in More. It is now not only man- for us. Secondly, they have access to capital where we ding or the wedding tourism 1.6 per cent to 3 per cent. The the Australian Cover-More aging claims but it has a strong some robust technology sys- can continue our acquisitions sector in India which accounts booking for a five-star hotel will Group, it not only recognised in-house support system which tems which we get access across the world. We are look- for less than 10 per cent share cost 28 per cent extra in the the good work that Cover- can take care of its customers to. We can just pick any sys- ing at two very interesting op- in the overall industry is not form of GST. More was doing globally, it wherever they are in the world. tem we want – whether it is a portunities at the moment.” also brought direct benefits to TrawellTag Cover-More. But what Dev Karvat, CEO- Emerging Markets, Trawell-

Dev Karvat India Travel Award winner and CEO- Emerging Markets, TrawellTag Cover-More 8QOLNHRWKHULQVXUDQFH providers, Cover-More has its own assistance FRPSDQ\FDOOHG&XV- tomer Care and Zurich also has its assistance business called World 7UDYHO3URWHFWLRQ :73

Tag Cover-More, wants his partners in India to focus on is the huge advantage that this development brings to their customers.

He says, “One advantage which is going to be a game changer for us specially in the Indian market is the benefit of Zurich’s strong protection arm. Most insurance provid- ers in India outsource their assistance business to a third party. Cover-More has its own assistance company called Customer Care and Zurich also has its own assistance business called World Travel Protection (WTP). We have merged both these entities and it is now called WTP. That gives us a very, very strong proposition on protecting the customer while they are overseas. We have moved way beyond reimbursing a client or facilitating a cash- less transaction. Our focus is to make sure that if the cus- tomer falls sick or needs as- sistance, the most important thing is how we can bring them back home safely, or

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 27 03-11-2017 12:22:14 28 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 QUICKBYTES A bleak 2017, but 2018 offers hope On the sidelines of PACE (PIHMAA Annual Conclave & Exchange) 2017, TRAVTALK finds out from prominent hoteliers in the country how the year 2017 has been so far for the industry and what they expect from the coming year.

ANUPRIYA BISHNOI AND KANCHAN NATH

It’s been a very difficult year for Business was majorly impacted Overall, I have seen the rates go the food and beverage business, first this year. One reason was demoneti- up, which is positive because so far with the liquor ban and then the un- sation. GST also made sure that com- the challenge was that occupancies certainty of business. Around 29 of panies postpone their plans on MICE were climbing up steadily but rates our hotels were impacted. We had movements and conducting confer- were static. There has been a 4-8 some restaurants and bars to open, ences. Liquor ban resulted in another per cent growth in rates. Some hotels but couldn’t. However, we are grate- 3-4 month loss of business. What the have even seen 10 per cent growth. ful to the Supreme Court for having government needs is to do consist- Hotels that rely heavily on foreigners amended and lifted the ban to a rea- ent policymaking. Once we stabilise have done extremely well. The dollar- Kapil Chopra K.B. Kachru sonable level. Business seems to be the base, things will only look positive Sanjay Sethi to-rupee ratio has stayed steady, so President Chairman Emeritus & Principal picking up and occupancies are bet- in the next two years. We are on the &KLHI2SHUDWLQJ2IÀFHU has not affected buying patterns. A The Oberoi Group Advisor, South Asia ITC Hotels & WelcomHotels Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group ter. We are seeing a positive change right track. I see a promising Novem- large amount of the leisure growth but more would be known during the ber-December, the fourth quarter is showing signs of recovery. has come through the domestic seg- next off-season. There is more domestic business which is Great days are ahead as long as policymaking is consistent ment. For the first time, we have seen a double-digit growth happening now and I hope MICE business also improves. and we are not surprised by events like liquor ban. among foreign leisure tourist arrivals.

All the challenges faced this year, There were some initial bumps The hospitality industry has been including GST, liquor ban and demon- and a lot of apprehension and anxi- through a terrible patch. For almost etisation, were definitely a disruptor ety, especially with demonetisation seven years we felt the stress as for us but all said and done, the in- and GST being implemented back-to- capacity and supply of inventory of dustry is limping back to normalcy. A back. I think we crossed over well and rooms increased in almost all our key recent respite has come in the form of are back to business. We are very op- cities and demand shrunk. There's GST for restaurants, which could go timistic from a MICE and luxury per- now enough evidence that the indus- back to 12 per cent. This will be a wel- spective. We see a significant upside try is perhaps at the beginning of an come move for the industry. If I look at because there is an ease of doing upcycle. Last year the occupancy lev- Anurag Bhatnagar el in almost all key cities went up, this the year ahead, occupancy will con- Raj Rana business. In 2018, we are forecast- Mandeep S Lamba Multi-property is a precursor to ADRs going up. Our tinue to increase and rates will con- &KLHI([HFXWLYH2IÀFHU ing an almost double-digit growth in Managing Director, India Vice President Luxury (India) tinue to soar as well. The economy is South Asia terms of what we have done this year. forecast for the industry over the next JLL Hotels and Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group Marriott International slowing down; this is something we are There is a lot of transparency now four to five years is that we are head- Hospitality Group watching very closely because our hotels, especially Radis- and a feel-good factor of how business is conducted in India. I ed for a bull run. Unless something son-branded ones, are largely dependent on corporates. think it all augurs well for our business. goes drastically wrong, we are confident of an upcycle.

The industry was hit by demonetisation, GST and liquor ban this year. This raised challenges for some of our hotels, especially be- cause of the liquor ban. It impacted our F&B revenue as well as the room revenue. I don’t think demonetisation had a huge impact on ho- tels except in the wedding segment, but challenges bring their own opportunities and it gave us the chance to look at our cost structure. Most of the hotels did very well and came out with great results. Overall, the challenges were well handled. Despite the setbacks, most of our hotels have grown over the past months. The upcoming year, without any hiccups, looks better. We are expecting firm rates Arindam Kunar with occupancies doing relatively well. It’s all about managing better Area General Manager, South India rates in 2018. Gaining guest loyalty is going to be the biggest game InterContinental Hotels Group changer. It will include loyalty programmes, customer satisfaction, personalised services, etc. With OTAs and players such as Airbnb coming in, loyalty can be a differentiating factor. We are not competing with each other in the hotel space; we are fighting technology and other lines of business. So, what is going to really make a mark is gaining the loyalty of consumers.

The year 2017 was tough. We started with the liquor ban, then the GST. However, it’s been a year that will set us right for the future. At the end of the day, when business is tough, you have to reinvent yourself; you look at your expenses and efficiencies. I am convinced that it will be better now as we have seen that food and beverage revenue, especially in banquets, is back on track since September 2017. Also, we are looking at an increase of 10 per cent Michel Koopman in RevPAR. I am hopeful that the last quarter will be the best in General Manager terms of revenue. The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences

The industry faced a lot of challenges because of the liquor ban. Liquor is one of the most important components of the in- dustry and we didn’t realise its importance until it was gone. When the liquor ban was imposed, we saw how the entire gamut of busi- ness moved around liquor and how hotels struggled. With GST, it was not very clear how it was to be implemented and till date, hotels are struggling with what’s right and what’s not. A few amend- ments are still awaited. Overall, we are a very resilient industry; Shipra Sumbly Kaul General Manager whatever happens, we bounce back. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bengaluru Racecourse

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 28 03-11-2017 12:22:18 QUICKBYTES NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 29 Are exhibitions still relevant for trade? Contd. from page 26

The relevance of international exhi- According to me, in the present It is important to participate in bitions in tourism promotion plays very scenario, Internet, Social Media international travel trade exhibitions important role. It helps the Industry networking and other communica- for inbound operators. It is possible focus on three main agendas. First is tion modes are more active. The for us to create new source markets evolving towards value-creating indus- relevance of International Travel only by participating in International try by building a brand in international Exhibitions is going down with travel trade exhibitions. These days, market. People across the globe are time. Since the number of buyers the travellers from emerging mar- looking for value add in services be- is reducing, they should consider kets prefer to plan their travel with ing availed, and this component is key using e-marketing more. Also , with the help of tour operators and new Surpal S Deora to any tourism oriented country. Sec- Harvinder S Duggal Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) tie-ups from emerging markets can Anish Kumar P. K Director ond factor is stimulating new demand MD, Minar Travels, getting stronger by the day, I don’t be built through participating in CEO Maxxfun Holidays The Travel Planners by showcasing the product. The last India Travel Award winner see much future of International trade fairs and road shows. As far agenda is promoting a tourism nation through this medium Travel Exhibitions in the near future. This method of pro- as we are concerned, we are cur- establishing awareness among participants from various coun- motion and sales is getting redundant by the day and rently focusing more in China and Eastern Europe mar- tries at such platforms. The creativity in promotion plays a key there is a need to explore technological advancements kets by participating in trade shows in every part of the role. Through the exhibitions platform, we can showcase the and move forward. The times are changing and we have world. The networking opportunities on offer at these shows technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and 360 degree videos, to adapt accordingly. are unparalleled. which are immersive medias that are transforming how brands showcase themselves online and offline and in hardware headsets from Samsung and Google.

Zia Siddiqui CEO, Alliance Hotels, India Travel Award winner

Participating in travel and trade exhibitions is one of the best ways to improve and develop businesses these days. It is a platform where one can exchange views with the overseas tour operators and update them about the development of new tourism products in the country. It’s the best way to showcase what the country has to offer and explore interesting itiner- aries so that foreign tourists can have a great experience in the country.

Sanjay Basu MD Far Horizon Tours

All activities in promotion and marketing are relevant today, especially interna- tional travel exhibitions are extremely relevant for mak- ing B2B contacts. They are a great platform to witness new products and people and gain knowledge about what’s happening in the industry. However, these need to be followed up with strong road- shows as during trade fairs you make contacts and dur- ing roadshows, you convert them into contracts.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 29 03-11-2017 12:22:21 30 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 VIEWPOINT Technology connects, so does travel Travel is going through a myriad changes owing to the evolving technology and the corresponding new-age customer. Travel agents are now questioning the survival of the offline mode of business in this digital age. Experts and key stakeholders of the travel industry deliberate on the nature of change and opportunities that lie ahead with adoption of technology.

Moderator Participants

Guldeep Singh Sahni Sumanth Kapoor Nikhil Dhodapker Ankush Nijhawan Himanshu Patil Jaal Shah India Travel Award winner and Head-Strategy, Identity and CEO, TUI India India Travel Award winer and Director, Kesari Tours, India Group MD, RezLive.com, President, OTOAI Citizen Services, VFS Global MD, Nijhawan Group Travel Award winner India Travel Award winner

Technology has There are three elements Today, the relevance of a travel I am not worried about change I believe that technology is The outbound travel market in changed the game in of change- the magnitude agent is decided by the cus- because this will be a constant definitely changing the game India is very mature and the the travel industry and of change, the frequency of tomer. The travel market is only feature. There will be compa- in travel and creating one’s trade too is quite advanced. change and the predictability increasing and information is nies which can disrupt the cur- niche in the industry is the way This is why understanding many travel agents are of change. Over the past two- available at a click of a button. rent functioning. There has to forward to evolve. Business the online travel trade is the struggling to adapt three years, the magnitude It is up to the industry to accept, be a risk taking appetite and margins are shrinking and it way forward. The most recent to this change. There and frequency have moved adopt and adapt to the changing travel agents need to be open is important that travel agents change is the shift of market- is fear of survival from high to low. Though a lot customer. If the travel agents can -minded to spend capital behind introspect into their business ing strategies on the social in the market. What of things are under wraps, no provide a level of service far bet- technology. Intellectual technol- models. Invest in technology; platform. One has to under- according to you is breakthrough will happen at ter than anyone else, then there ogy is important but not cheap one does not have to reinvent stand that social media is not the direction to take the drop of a hat. However, is no question of their survival. If and one has to understand the wheel again and again; just about uploading pictures predictability of change is the one tries to become Make My that there is capital investment the agents can make use of and status on Facebook and in order to create space where risk and opportuni- Trip and Yatra for the sake of go- behind building, innovating and the technology already avail- Instagram. They are actually opportunities for ty both reside. One way to tackle ing online and make a website maintaining technology. You able in the market but put it to tools to do business as well. business? this is through incubation cells. I to follow the e-commerce wave, have to find the niche to own better use. Risk taking appe- Content is the ruling element feel we could invest in new start- then that is a mistake. To be- the customer. Acquisition has tite is necessary as one has to to keep your customers en- ups to keep a track of new tech- come a digital giant takes a lot of become the way forward as no explore and diversify the seg- gaged and investment in nology coming up in the market. investment and research. one is building new things now. ment of travel. technology is inevitable.

#UVQNFVQ#PMKVC5CZGPC

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 30 03-11-2017 12:22:25 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 31 03-11-2017 12:22:29 32 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 DEBATE Incredible India 2.0 comes refreshed The second India Travel Summit organised by Thomas Cook India in New Delhi recently saw the stalwarts from the Indian tourism industry discussing on how the recently-launched Incredible India 2.0 might change things for India, or if more work is needed, as well as other plaguing issues that prove to be a challenge to get enough inbound numbers to the country.

India tourism has come a long way, but we still need to cross the 10 million mark of inbound tourists and NISHA VERMA then head for the 20-million target. Now, apart from targeting certain high spend markets and e-Visa that We believe that a good tourism has been a big gamechanger, we need to have easier and liberal policies as well as good aviation access. campaign should define how a country However, we need to get India ready for the future and I believe that the Incredible India 2.0 campaign is go- is perceived around the world. A cam- ing to put us on a different platform altogether. While we will be getting customers, the new campaign would paign should not narrow down to sell ho- change the mindset of people in the coming years. Another thing we need to be ready for is what happens tel rooms, instead, we should be looking 5-7 years from now. While India is a difficult destination to promote, we need to see that the average stay at how much we are pitching in for India. of international tourists in the country ranges between 12 and 14 nights, which is much more than many I think Incredible India should become other countries. While infrastructure is an issue currently, in terms of aviation, the government needs to open skies and allow increased flight connectivity to smaller destinations like Jaipur and Goa. The hotels around the mother campaign and Make in India Dipak Deva and other such campaigns should be the country saw 65 per cent occupancy last year, which was highest since 2007-08; ARRs were up by 2.4 Managing Director, percent, REVpars were up by 6 per cent, and the number of rooms in the country are increasing by the day. Destination Management, Suman Billa drawing from that strength. We need Sita, TCI and Distant Joint Secretary From 24,000 rooms in 2000, we have up to 119,000 hotel rooms now and we still need more. However, a to go out and create that framework in Frontiers Ministry of Tourism, the mindset of the people that India is lot of inbound depends on beach tourism, and owing to CRZ guidelines in the country, not many hotels are Government of India a great wonderful place to be in. There coming up on beaches around the country, which remains a big concern for the industry. Another big challenge is the development needs to be a lot of work to be done. of convention centres around the country, for which private investment could play a big role in attracting tourists. There are two fundamental changes that we are looking at cur- rently. Firstly, we have done a generalised campaign till now, under which we have been running one common film that is a collage of everything that is wonderful in the country, and playing it in all the While many think India needs to open its skies and have more bilaterals for increasing flights into the country, markets. We need to change that and create a systematic cam- I don’t think it is the case. There are many countries with which we have open skies. However, I think there is an paign. The communication has to be market specific, and we need excess of supply currently from India, because of which the airfare is very low. It is cheaper to fly to Dubai and to create that sensitivity around what that market wants. Secondly, even a few European countries from India than flying domestic, and domestic fares are cheap too as compared we need to create campaigns that are product specific because to global standards. The pricing is an indicator of the demand and supply balance and the fares are so low that it India has a range of tourism products, but the challenge is that it’s shows that the demand is very high, because we drop fares to fill the seats. I don’t think our challenge is not hav- extremely difficult to market, because those planning to visit the ing enough flights. We have a great destination in India, but it needs work in terms of infrastructure, cleanliness, country have many options, which overwhelms them. The same ease of travel and commute. The country gets good attendance from luxury travellers who travel in chauffeured happens when we want to market India as there are so many cars, opulent hotels and escorted visits; as well as from backpackers like students from Israel. However, for the things to do. Hence, we are creating product specific creatives, Sanjiv Kapoor vast majority of mid-segment travellers, India is a very difficult destination. Many other smaller countries are doing not just on general media but also on digital media, which is one Chief Strategy and Com- better than us and hence, we need to have a tourism infrastructure, which is just not the tourism ministry’s job. We of our main strategies to tap the travellers. PHUFLDO2IÀFHU9LVWDUD need participation from all quarters. In terms of aviation and hotels, it is world class and much better than many (Tata - Singapore Airlines) other places. For Incredible India 2.0 we need to create a safe environment where anyone can roam around freely anywhere in India, without any hesitation. I think until we fix all these problems, it’s going to be difficult for us to leave a good impression amongst the tourists coming to India. We need to create an environment in India where people feel safe and comfortable.

The biggest challenge in India, according to me are the hotel rates. In terms of rates of resorts, we are comparable globally, but the luxury hotel rates in cities are lowest in the world. The highest rate for a city hotel in India goes between The Leela Palace, New Delhi, Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai, or The Oberoi, , with an average room rate of around USD 250 throughout the year. It is half of what city hotels charge globally. That leads to our second problem—the investments that have gone into the hotel sector make most of the companies incur losses. Amongst the four major hotel chains in India, two have recorded quarterly losses. The bigger challenge is not further investment into Kapil Chopra hotels and capital constraints, but return on capital. More people want President to open up hotels, but long gestation periods, licensing and the time it The Oberoi Group requires to open a hotel, prove to be a hurdle. In terms of beach hotels, while it’s difficult to even see the ocean from a hotel in Goa, hotels in Maldives offer rooms in the middle of the sea. Until CRZ guidelines in India are taken out, we will be killing beach tourism completely. In Mumbai, if only 10 cruise ships are docked on the coastline, the entire infrastructure around the area could change and there will be increased room nights, shop- ping, restaurant visits and there will be a vibrant economy sustaining on that. Capital runs after vision. Even in terms of convention centres, the entire economy of a place changes if it has a state-of-the-art convention centre, including hotel business.

The question here is that how we can create a balance between growth of tourism and sustainability. I am hopeful that the campaign would draw focus on that as well. We know that many countries have ho- tels right on the beaches, but that does not mean that it is the right way to go because many times the effect comes in 10-20 years down the line. Australia today has lost its Great Barrier Reef owing to increased tourism activity. Timely intervention could have saved it. One should abide by the precautionary principle, as the coastline is shifting and coming nearer to the shore could be dangerous to the tourists as well. Mandip Singh Soin The same goes for mountains. We need to educate the tourists and Founder & Managing Director, tell them that environment is the king and not the customer. They will Ibex Expeditions and Founder understand as everyone has an innate sense of responsibility, and they President, Ecotourism Society of India would respect us for the same. I have been running camps in the Hima- layas for 38 years and have never had a camp fire, as it would mean taking the wood, which is the livelihood of locals there, away from them. When we communicate it to the travellers, they respect it. The industry needs to bring in a little balance between what the scientists suggest and what they plan to construct, and I am sure customers will be happier and feeling better about doing things in the right way.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 32 03-11-2017 12:22:32 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 33 03-11-2017 12:22:34 34 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 QUICKBYTES Luxury quotient on an ‘UP’ward swing At the recent Travel Trade Mart (TTM 2017) organised by Travel Trade Association of Uttar Pradesh in Lucknow, the local travel agents identify that the market has a huge potential for high-end luxury travel and gradually newer destinations like Vietnam, Korea, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand are now climbing up the popularity charts.

TT BUREAU We received many queries from a This exhibition was well-organised variety of travel agents and tour oper- and gave me a platform to meet all This is the first time that Travel ators for the portfolio we represented leading agents from Lucknow and Trade Mart (TTM 2017) was organ- at the show. I found a lot of queries Kanpur and allowed to connect with ised in UP and I must say the or- for Vietnam which is an upcoming agents from nearby cities like Alla- ganisers did a great job. The buyers destination; a fair interest for Europe habad, Gorakhpur and Varanasi whom and sellers were asked to register while Dubai remained the most popu- I may not have met otherwise. We found themselves online in order to have a lar. Sri Lanka however, did not attract that the aspiration to take a cruise holi- smooth event. I met many potential too much interest. We found a huge day is high in UP. The only deterrent in buyers from the region and found potential of high-end clients from the growth of cruising from UP was lack of that there are a lot of high-end clients Preeti Duggal UP market. This exhibition brought us information. However, gradually we ob- Gaurav Sharma Regional Manager- that we can cater to for Singapore Director served that travel agents have become Shahnawaz Zafar YS Hospitality in direct contact with the agents who Business Development, Country Manager-Sales (India), and the Far East. Earlier, tourism require our services. I feel the market more confident and are aware of our Cruise Professionals, India United Travels and Tours boards targeted metros like Delhi, in Tier-I cities is mostly handled by big players of the industry. products. They are able to advise their Travel Award winner Mumbai and Chennai but now, have The Tier-II market is developing and gaining confidence which clients on right destinations and itinerar- gradually started moving to Tier-II and Tier-III cities. Lucknow has allows companies like ours to bridge the gap in the market. ies instead of routing their business through bigger cities. become a central point for UP.

TTM was a fantastic initiative to We received excellent response This show proved to be very fruit- bring together various stakeholders of from the buyers towards the product ful for me as I found the right part- the tourism and hospitality industry un- portfolio we offered and moving for- ners. I met buyers from Lucknow, Al- der one roof to allow them to showcase ward, I am sure we will drive good busi- lahabad, Kanpur, Varanasi and also their products to the tour operators of ness out of the meetings we conducted closed business from a few groups for Uttar Pradesh. This is a growing market during the show. We saw a lot of que- Singapore. So, I have been satisfied with and has very high potential. We show- ries for Australia and increased interest the return on investment for this show. cased 18 destinations under our portfo- among agents for island destinations. Apart from budget travellers, UP also lio where we have our own offices. We The buyers we met from Lucknow, has a huge high-end luxury clientele met with agents from Lucknow, Kanpur, Sujit Nair Azamgarh, Kanpur, Amethi etc. mostly Gagan Kumar which seeks high standards of service. Amit Gupta Varanasi and other nearby cities. Ear- Founder and Group MD, catered to the cruising aspirations of Director, STHI Group, People in UP have money to spend but Manager-Sales & lier this market was constrained to the Akquasun their clients and the honeymoon seg- India Travel Award winner are not so aware about the destinations Contracting, Holidays by Sahibji, India Travel Far East but gradually has started mov- ment. The show proved to be a very good platform to highlight and thus, education of travel agents is Award winner ing to destinations like South Africa, Europe and the US. the tremendous potential of Tier-II and Tier-III cities. most crucial in the state.

Since this was the first outbound tourism show to be hosted in Lucknow, we decided to venture into the UP market as this is a growing and developing market with a lot of scope. The travel agents we received were from Lucknow, Kanpur and other nearby areas and it was very helpful to be connected with these agents directly rather than have their business routed through other agents in Delhi and Mumbai. We show- cased St. Petersburg and other parts of Russia and received a warm response. This was a very well-organised show and it is commendable that the organisation was able to put up such a good quality show in a Akanksha Chaudhary short span of time. Senior Manager Salvia Travels

The first Travel trade mart in Uttar Pradesh offered a wide variety of exhibitors showcasing their products to the travel agents and local tour operators of Uttar Pradesh. I saw few DMCs which came to the Uttar Pradesh market for the first time and this was a very positive sign for the tourism industry in the state. In terms of inbound, Uttar Pradesh has various destinations on offer to the foreign tourists like Lucknow, Varanasi, Sarnath, etc. along with a wide variety of tourism products. In terms of outbound, Southeast Asia remains popular with destinations like Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia; Dubai is a major attraction from the UP market while other destinations like Korea, Australia, New Zealand Shailesh Agarwal and all major European countries are also catching up fast. Sales Manager Get My Trip

TTAUP is a fairly new organisation and the team did a wonderful job. This was a first-of-its-kind UP based event for the travel agents of the state and it proved to be a positive step as many times it is not feasible for the local agents to attend shows in Delhi, Mumbai and other metros. I saw that 80 per cent of the products showcased at the show are new to the UP market like St. Petersburg, Korea and Vietnam. Till now the UP travel agents were confined to destinations like Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau and Dubai but with newer destinations coming in, I am sure the trend will change. The spending capacity is Hina Zaidi very high amongst travellers from the state but the lack of information Director-Sales and knowledge among the agents act as a deterrent for the industry. Sheeraz Tours

Contd. on page 37

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 34 03-11-2017 12:22:37 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 35 03-11-2017 12:22:40 36 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 NTO Delhi ranks high in Australia's list Maharashtra ranks first while Delhi ranks second among the biggest Indian markets for Australia in terms of tourist arrivals, reveals Nishant Kashikar, Country Head India and Gulf, Tourism Australia, who was in the capital recently and shared plans for the market and India at large.

here tend to contribute quite of achieving it well ahead jectives. In the last six-eight Indian Travel Mission, which NISHA VERMA significantly to the country’s of time. India is expected to months, we have worked with was recently held in Pune, ishant Kashikar re- economy through tourism be ranked amongst the top a lot of television channels, where we had 100 agents Nvealed that Tourism Aus- activities under all segments five markets for Australia by both mainstream and region- from across the country. We tralia started with a represen- including group travel, free 2025, and we‘d like to bring al. Thus, there is a lot of focus also have Australian Tourism tation agency in Delhi before individual travel and the hon- that target closer and reach on content on TV. Advocacy Exchange, which is going to setting up its own office. “We eymoon segment. In fact, this that mark by 2020 itself.” is another element of our take place next year in the have developed a very strong is the market that has helped strategy and we have signed city of Adelaide, and we have relationship with the travel us establish Australia as a On repeat visitation, up with Parineeti Chopra as good participation from Delhi industry here and we keep great honeymoon destina- Kashikar reveals that 50 per Tourism Australia’s friend of as well. We have Dreamtime, nurturing it. Also, given the tion as well. As per our Tour- cent of visitors to Australia Australia. She recently trav- which focuses on MICE, and Nishant Kashikar elled to Australia and posted is happening in December in aviation access, with the only ism 2020 strategy, our goal is Country Head India and Gulf come back because it is such direct connection between In- now to drive yield and spend Tourism Australia a huge continent that cannot on Facebook, Instagram and Brisbane. Apart from that, my dia and Australia being on Air per person, and this market be explored in one visit. “We Twitter, and has around 30 team trains almost 12,000 India from Delhi to Sydney will play a very important role :LWKWKHRQO\GLUHFW are seeing an increase in million followers across all agents across the country and Melbourne, as well as in helping us achieve that ob- dispersal where people are platforms. There is going to in any given year. These are the embassy and High Com- jective,” he says. connection between In- travelling to cities beyond the be an increase in investment customised and bespoke mission being here, Delhi has key traditional gateway cities. on digital media as well. It’s training programmes based become very important for Talking about the Tour- dia and Australia being This is how it will help us to not going to be pure display on the agency requirements," us. We’ve seen some good ism 2020 potential, he says, on Air India from Delhi, achieve our yield,” he shares. advertisements, but a lot he says. growth from this market over “When we launched Tourism To propagate repeat visita- of focus on search, the past 12 months. We had 2020 plan in June 2012, we DQGWKHHPEDVV\DQG tion, they are focusing on the programmatic search and almost 32,000 tourists from had set out three objectives— +LJK&RPPLVVLRQEHLQJ western part of Australia, the videos,” he shares. Delhi's Aussie link the state of Delhi alone, who to achieve 300,000 visitor ar- northern territory, Tasmania  $OPRVWWRXU- travelled to Australia last year rivals by 2020; achieve AUD here, Delhi has become and other destinations which In terms of propagation ists from Delhi alone, and these tourists contrib- 1.9 billion in spend; and to YHU\LPSRUWDQWIRUXV are also gaining popularity through trade channels, he travelled to Australia uted almost (Australian dol- achieve the top six out of re- and awareness in the Indian revealed that they have the ODVW\HDUDQGFRQWULE- lar) AUD 165 million, which is gion ranking from the Indian market. “Content, advocacy Aussie specialist programme XWHGDOPRVW$8' an increase of 26 per cent as market. The good news is Thus, these targets are not and digital will be our three in India, for which they have million, which is an compared to previous years. that we have made it to the far if we maintain the current strong pillars and these will around 6,000 registered LQFUHDVHRISHUFHQW Delhi is also important for top six in the region ranking growth momentum. For the be supported by partner- members and almost 3,500 as compared to us from a yield perspective, and we will be achieving our third target of the AUD 1.9 bil- ships with agents, OTAs and are certified Aussie Special- SUHYLRXV\HDUV which means tourists from arrivals target in 2017 itself. lion spend, we are confident airlines to achieve our ob- ists. "We organise events like The City of Nawabs dazzles at TTM 2017 The 1st Travel Trade Mart organised by TTAUP for the local travel agents in Uttar Pradesh was hosted in Lucknow, where key players of the tourism and hospitality industry gathered under one roof to grow the outbound market from UP.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 36 03-11-2017 12:22:49 QUICKBYTES NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 37 TTM makes inroads 3$7$H[WHQGV0DULR+DUG\·VWHUPIRU\HDUV The Executive Board of the our primary mission of promot- cialised aviation businesses on the subject of Exponential for tourism boards Pacific Asia Travel Association ing sustainable and responsible with a focus upon data analyt- Technologies. (PATA) has extended the con- tourism development through- ics and technology, occupying PATA Chairperson Sarah Contd. from page 34 tract of Chief Executive Officer out the world as we encourage leadership roles in Montreal, Mathews said, “I am delighted Dr. Mario Hardy for a period of travel to, from and within the Vancouver, London, Beijing that Mario has agreed to continue This show was very informative for three years commencing Janu- Asia-Pacific region.” and Singapore. as our Chief Executive Officer. me as till now i was working with only ary 1, 2018. Dr Hardy said, “I Mario Hardy joined PATA In 2016, he received an Under his outstanding leadership, a few suppliers but after attending am delighted to have an op- in 2012 as Chief Operating honorary Doctorate of Let- the Association has made consid- TTM 2017, I was able to meet many portunity to work with our out- Officer and was appointed ters from Capilano Univer- erable progress and I am confi- new ones who are capable of offer- standing management team Chief Executive Officer on No- sity for his philanthropic work in dent he will continue to lead PATA ing better rates and will be beneficial in building upon the PATA suc- vember 1, 2014. He is a past Cambodia where he helped and support the needs of our for my overall business. For example, cesses of the past three years. Chairman of the Board of Trus- develop a school for under- members. PATA remains an asso- one exhibitor offers an online portal to We still face many challenges tees of the PATA Foundation, a privileged children and for his ciation dedicated to all its mem- check the availability of packages for as a membership organisation non-profit organisation with a support in the development bers and will continue to assist Mauritius, for which we were depend- but our determination to add focus on the protection of the of a Community Based Tour- them in the ever-evolving land- ent on our suppliers; earlier I knew Abdul Jabbar Khan value to the many benefits of environment, the conserva- ism (CBT) project in Vietnam. scape of tourism and travel. Mario Director, Jet View Travels only one supplier for packages to Rus- PATA membership is being rec- tion of culture and heritage, In January 2017 Mario Hardy and his team are best placed to sia but now I have met three different ognised in the public and private and support for education. He graduated from the Singularity help drive a continued period companies for CIS countries and Russia. Agra in particular sectors. We shall continue with worked for 26 years in spe- University, Executive Program of growth.” has good high-end traffic for Europe where people have the spending capacity as high as Rs 50,000 per night in a branded property.

Manoj Rawat Director, Express Worldwide Holidays India

I congratulate the team for organising such a wonderful show. TTM has been very successful in providing expo- sure to the small time agents of the region and being a local show, it also brought many industry professionals together under one roof. I was able to meet vendors here which I was unable to meet at larger trade shows, The qual- ity of exhibitors was on a par with the bigger shows organ- ised in the metros and that is commendable.

Prateek Jain Proprietor A. S. Tours and Travels

UP is a much diversified market and it is very impor- tant to look at this market carefully. Most of the travel shows take place in met- ros like Delhi, Mumbai and this is for the first time that Lucknow has been brought to the fore. In travel busi- ness, trust is the foremost priority and the exhibitors at the show have been able to convince us of the quality of the products they have to offer. Pricing of the products is also very crucial and we hope that now after we are directly connected to the variety of suppliers, we will find better prices for our cli- ents and grow business.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 37 03-11-2017 12:22:51 HOTELS JA strengthens its foothold With a positive year in the Indian market, JA Resorts & Hotels is leaving no stone unturned in making the brand a known name amongst Indian travellers.

NISHA VERMA or JA Resorts & Hotels, it Fhas been a year of hav- ing representation in India and the going has certainly been good, claims William Harley-Fleming, Cluster General Manager, JA Mana- faru Maldives, JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort, JA Shooting Club & JA Centre for Excel- lence Dubai. “The last one William Harley-Fleming Thomas Grundner year for us in the Indian mar- Cluster General Manager, JA Group Director of Sales & Manafaru Maldives, JA Jebel Ali Marketing ket has been very successful. Golf Resort, JA Shooting Club & JA JA Resorts & Hotels Kunal Munshaw and Pooja Centre for Excellence Dubai Wadhwa from Avante Garde Consulting have done a fan- There has been a The wedding market tastic job. We have seven properties within the port- massive uptake in LVRQHRIWKHNH\ folio in Dubai, Maldives and source segments we Seychelles, and for us it’s the number of Indian about getting the message travellers to the Mal- ZDQWWRWDSQRWRQO\ out that we are different from any cookie-cutter hotel and GLYHVZLWKRYHU because we have have a brand that is unique per cent increase fantastic hotels, but with a heart of hospitality, attention to detail, and per- \HDURQ\HDU also a desert retreat sonalised service. For us, it’s not just about putting it on a piece of paper, but also a very strong Indian base. It of- but also because we have having one-on-one meetings fers perfect space with the way a desert retreat, Al Sahra with the travel agents, our the apartments are split as Desert Resort, where we can partners, corporate clients as well as a good location that is host up to 10,000 people with well as the media,” he said. close to the city as well as the an amphitheatre set up right beach. Then there is our prime in the middle for concerts and He added that they have product— JA Palm Tree Court other functions.” got a number of Indian guests and JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel, through all channels includ- where one can have the best The key focus for JA Re- ing the trade and individual beach that stretches 800m, a sorts & Hotels, however, is es- bookings. “We’ve seen mas- golf course, marina, shooting tablishing the brand and creat- sive uptake in Indian travel- range as well as stables. It is ing awareness for it in India. lers to the Maldives, with over a destination in itself,” he said. “We knew creating awareness 500 per cent increase year- of the brand is going to be a on-year. There is about 100 JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel challenge in India when we per cent increase for Dubai and JA Palm Tree Court are entered the market. However, and about 150-200 per cent quite close to Dubai Parks & I think seeing is believing and increase in Seychelles. Since Resorts, which is one of the we have seen positive results we started with a very low oc- latest attractions in Dubai. from this market,” said Flem- cupancy from India, it’s a very Grundner revealed that they ing. “We are willing to look at good increase. However, we are working closely with the an opportunity in India, but are looking to continue that attraction and once it be- first we want to establish a growth,” shared Fleming. comes popular, the business name in the market because to the properties would also we want to build a strong foun- In order to push the brand see a rise. “We are also try- dation and make sure that the further into the Indian market ing to bring the popularity of day we come into India, we they have on board Thomas Dubai Parks & Resorts into have a good recognition and Grundner as Group Direc- the market, which would not understanding in the market,” tor of Sales & Marketing, JA only help us in driving more he added. Resorts & Hotels, who said room nights, but also drive that they are looking at all more traffic into the park. We Now, the focus for their sectors from India including have a free shuttle service India strategy will be having FIT, MICE, weddings and in- between the resort and the a brand ambassador, which centives. “If we are getting an hotel, and guests at our prop- would be key in creating incentive, wedding or MICE erties get free entry to the awareness about the brand. group, it would increase the parks,” he revealed. Grundner said, “We have occupancy rapidly because stronger presence in the everybody comes from the Elaborating further on market through regular sales same source market. For JA the wedding business from trips, functions for our part- Manafaru Maldives, it’s more India, Grundner said, “While ners, stronger relationships of the FIT business, but we we are reaching out to key with the trade, content shar- are also targeting the wed- players in the wedding busi- ing and a brand ambassador ding market. We want to make ness, the biggest challenge to get better exposure. We sure that people come for their for us is the size of the wed- have started discussions on honeymoon to the property as dings because based on our the same and are looking at well as to celebrate special inventory, some of the wed- Bollywood celebrities as well. occasions. Dubai, on the other dings are too big. However, There needs to be a right per- hand, gives all the segments the wedding market is one of son who fits in with the brand, the opportunity, especially the key source segments we understands the ethos be- with the JA Oasis Beach Tow- want to tap, not only because hind it, and appreciates what er apartments, where we have we have fantastic hotels, we are trying to achieve.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 38 03-11-2017 12:22:54 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 39 03-11-2017 12:22:56 40 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 FAMILYALBUM Marching towards sustainability The Young Environmentalists Programme recently organised a World Tourism Day Conclave on the theme 'Sustainable Tourism - A Tool for Development' in association with Creed Entertainment in Mumbai under the aegis of UNWTO. The event saw various state and international tourism boards, travel associations and airlines participate in the business sessions. Based out of Mumbai, the programme has been accredited by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 40 03-11-2017 12:22:59 AGENTS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 41 Fancy travelling to the Balkans in 2018? Tourism Enterprises recorded a handsome growth of 22 per cent in 2017 over the previous year. Recently the company added Bohemia Travel Agency to their network, a destination management company, which provides services in the Balkan countries especially to Bulgaria, Macedonia and Serbia.

TT BUREAU several countries; the most Identifying trends from the One can experience the Eu- $700 per person which in- trade partners through per- popular being Dubai, Cen- India market, Gosain points out ropean charm in this region cludes stay in a 3-4 star hotel sonal visits, mailers, trade fairs ourism Enterprises based tral Europe, Sri Lanka and that MICE travel to Europe is at a cheaper price, familiarise and transport within the region. and arranges local city based Tin New Delhi and Mumbai, Greece. “With Central Europe currently very popular and the themselves with the culture, seminars and also ensures the brings some of the world's best gaining popularity in the India company is trying to take the cuisine and traditions of the Utkarsh further elaborates quality, stability and reliability of destination management com- market, we are also offer- groups to the Balkan region region before they head out that the company is also look- the DMC which they promote panies (DMCs) to India to offer ing trips to Prague, Vienna, as well. Families and friends to explore the rest of Europe,” ing at the incentive travel seg- in the Indian market. The com- services to outbound operators Salzburg, Budapest and Mu- are also travelling to this region says Gosain. He further adds ment, families and groups as pany will continue its market- nich through a DMC brand from India. “We are targeting that the average duration of they demand personalised ing efforts by way of attending in Czech Republic,” says the middle-class travellers for stay for the Indian traveller is programmes in comparison roadshows, travel trade fairs Kumar Utkarsh, Senior Man- the Balkan countries because minimum 6-7 days and their to set departure tours. Tour- and familiarisation trips for ager, Tourism Enterprises. this region is very affordable. average spend is about $600- ism Enterprises reaches its agents in 2018.

Ravi Gosain Managing Director Tourism Enterprises MICE travel to (XURSHLVFXUUHQWO\ YHU\SRSXODUDQG WKHFRPSDQ\LV WU\LQJWRWDNHWKH groups to the Balkan region as well

in India. The last three years have been successful for the company and they are looking forward to a robust 2018. “We are aggressively promoting Morocco, Italy, France, Poland

Kumar Utkarsh Senior Manager Tourism Enterprises With Central Europe gaining popu- ODULW\ZHDUHRIIHULQJ tripsto Prague, Vienna, Budapest and Munich through a DMC brand LQ&]HFK5HSXEOLF

etc. to our B2B network in India. Outbound from India is steady, although it’s price sen- sitive. The proximity to inter- national destinations with new flights and promotional airfares is also a value-add,” says Ravi Gosain, Managing Director, Tourism Enterprises.

In 2016, Tourism Enter- prises sent approximately over 8,000 Indian tourists to

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 41 03-11-2017 12:23:02 42 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 STATES Mumbai prepares for cruise liners The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) along with the Mumbai Port Trust (MPT) has made major upgrades at the port to make their disembarkation and offshore experience a seamless one.

TT BUREAU Cruise tourism is a new the potential is for 955 ships an upgraded terminal report- and exciting area of tour- which can take the passen- edly at the cost of Rs 225 ppointed in May 2017, ism in Maharashtra. While ger count per ship from about crore for a modern passen- AVijay Waghmare, Man- the port trust has taken the 1,250 today to 4,200 pas- ger terminal. aging Director, Maharash- initiative, MTDC is one of sengers when the demand tra Tourism Development the major players which will increases. Most of the five Tourist guides Corporation (MTDC) has be co-ordinating with MPT in major ports – Mumbai, Goa, Training of guides is been busy since. If it’s terms of cruise operations. Kochi, New Mangalore and also a major concern for not tackling the tourist It is currently chalking out Chennai – will have e-visa international tourists. With guide problem that has the nitty-gritties and fixing facilities and e-landing cards the increase of cruise tour- been hampering Ma- the logistical aspects that from this season. “There is ism, the demand for guides harashtra tourism, then tourists disembarking at an issue of biometrics, which will also increase, spe- he’s busy co-ordinating Mumbai get annoyed with. Vijay Waghmare Sanjay Bhatia we are getting resolved by cially the foreign-language with Mumbai Port Trust Speaking about this, Wagh- Managing Director, Maharashtra Tourism Chairman putting additional machines speaking ones. “We will MPT (MPT) to make the off- mare adds, “We want to wel- Development Corporation (MTDC) of 30 each at Mumbai and be providing training for shore experience of cruise come international tourists Kochi ports. Then, for securi- this. In the first phase, we passengers easy. when they get off the ship We want to There is an issue of ty, so that passengers are not are planning to certify 100 stopped multiple times, a ma- tour guides and we will be provide interna- biometrics, which jority of the ports now have focusing on people who MTDC pushes remote yet tional tourists with we are getting access control and RFID on have proficiency in foreign vehicles so that everyone languages. Four cities have beautiful spots as B&Bs a glimpse of UHVROYHGE\SXWWLQJ can swipe and enter. This been identified for the first will be introduced at Mumbai phase: Mumbai, Auranga- Its tie-up with online hospitality service AirBnB aims to Maharashtra's additional machines port from September 2017,” bad, Nasik and Nagpur,” develop areas such as hill stations and forts. Waghmare FXOWXUHZKHQWKH\ of 30 each at Mumbai Sanjay Bhatia, Chairman, Waghmare adds. says, “We want to develop tourism in areas that are remote MPT, reveals. yet beautiful by virtue of it being unexplored. While the initial get off the ship DQG.RFKLSRUWV work, after our tie up with AirBnB recently, has started with After separating the Fixing the bug Mumbai first, we want them to concentrate on remote areas cargo and cruise terminals of Maharashtra such as hill stations and fort areas – spots MTDC is chalking out at all five ports, they now WKHQLWW\JULWWLHVDQG that are beautiful but lack infrastructure and accommodation in a way that they can also Facilities for cruise have electronic permits and À[LQJWKHORJLVWLFDO facilities. We recognise a new and exciting opportunity of get a glimpse of what passengers e-payments, and single-win- aspects that tourists promoting these areas as B&Bs destinations. This will also Maharashtra is about – Ever since MPT took dow systems. Port charges disembarking at Mumbai strengthen the economy of these areas.” places to see, our cuisine, action a year ago, 158 ships are also getting reduced. JHWDQQR\HGZLWK our culture.” have come into Mumbai. But Mumbai, of course, is getting

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 42 03-11-2017 12:23:05 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 43 03-11-2017 12:23:07 44 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 AGENTS Ireland lures Indian cinephiles Tourism Ireland conducted its annual sales mission in Mumbai and Delhi to apprise the travel trade of new tourism products for Indian travellers. Ireland is promoting screen tourism to showcase the shooting locations where Game of Thrones and Star Wars were shot.

TT BUREAU as though the stay is shorter, around the theme of screen the expense is higher. Tradi- tourism.” She further adds n the words of David tionally, visitors would stay that Tourism Ireland works IBoyce, Head – Develop- two-three nights in Ireland as very closely with the Indian ing Markets, Tourism Ireland, part of their UK trip but we travel trade. “We conduct 2-3 30,000 Indians currently visit are working hard to increase trade Fam trips each year, Ireland each year and the the length of stay,” adds do training workshops, joint destination believes that this Boyce. Tourism Ireland is cooperation activities among number can grow to 50,000 also investing to revamp the other campaigns for the over the next two-three website for Irish Specialist trade. MICE and group travel years. Considered to be an programme to make it easier is picking up in Ireland from important market for Ireland, David Boyce Beena Menon Huzan Fraser Motivala for the trade to engage with India and business is mostly Head – Developing Markets Representative – India Representative - India the destination plans to keep Tourism Ireland Tourism Ireland Tourism Ireland the destination. driven from West and North in touch with the Indian travel India to various cities in Ire- trade through the Sales Mis- According to Huzan land,” she adds. sions in India. 12 Irish agen- We have good ,ULVKDJHQFLHV Ireland has been Fraser Motivala, Repre- cies participated in the sales FRQQHFWLYLW\ZLWK declared as the sentative - India, Tourism Ire- participated in Ireland beckons mission this year, held in Emirates, a double Game of Thrones land, there is an increased Mumbai and Delhi which was the sales mission interest among Indian trav- Tourism Ireland is attended by over 100 travel GDLO\VHUYLFHE\ WKLV\HDUZKLFKZDV 7HUULWRU\E\WKH ellers towards Ireland and investing to revamp the agents in each city, informed Etihad and now makers of this TV an annual growth of 14 per website for Irish Special- Beena Menon, Representa- held in Mumbai and cent is testimony to the ist programme to make tive – India, Tourism Ireland. 4DWDU$LUOLQHVZLWKLWV show and we hope same. She points out that Delhi. Over 100 it easier for the trade to operations beginning to capitalise on the the British Irish Visa Scheme engage with the Boyce explains, “The air (BIVS) has been one of the travel agents in destination service has never been bet- from India through VDPHE\RIIHULQJ key drivers to the growth. ter. We have good connectiv- the Middle East HDFKFLW\DWWHQGHG various tourism Motivala says, “Ireland has MICE and group travel ity with Emirates, a double been declared as the Game is picking up in Ireland daily service by Etihad and into Ireland the event -related products of Thrones Territory by the from India and business now Qatar Airlines with its makers of this TV show and LVPRVWO\GULYHQIURP operations beginning from “We have seen a growth Currently, leisure travel is interest in MICE travel to the we hope to capitalise on West and North India to India through the Middle of about 34 per cent up till predominant in Ireland but country. MICE and incentive the same by offering vari- various cities in Ireland East into Ireland.” the end of August in 2017. we have seen an increasing travel is a revenue generator ous tourism related products

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 44 03-11-2017 12:23:10 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 45 03-11-2017 12:23:12 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 46 03-11-2017 12:23:13 HOTELS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 47 Anchor offers Dusit’s Offering hotel solutions 24x7 hospitality globally After covering the Middle East, India and Africa, 24x7Rooms.com is now exploring the immense potential that the European market has to offer. Anchor Destinations and Travel

Management is a global wholesaler for TT BUREAU been supporting 24x7Rooms. The company is coming com from the past few years. up with an all-new version Dusit Thani Resorts and Pathumwan fter making its mark in We are sure that having a of 24x7Rooms.com, which Princess Resorts MBK in Bangkok. AMiddle East, the Indian direct presence in this re- should go live by the first subcontinent and Africa24x- gion will help us. We are par- quarter of 2018. It will bring 7Rooms.com is focusing on ticipating in WTM London to car rental as a new module Anchor Destinations TT BUREAU the European market. They understand the market. We to its portfolio of hotel plus plans to participate in various opened the first European have a packed schedule with transfers plus sightseeing he year 2017 has been a roadshows pan India in 2018. GSA branch in Macedonia prospective partners and will for worldwide destinations. Tgreat year for Anchor Des- The company also plans to last year and are registered constantly try to evaluate how “We have excellent XML API tinations as the company re- organise familiarisation trips in the UK. Mushtak Gafoor, our solutions will be best suit- connectivity for those look- corded a growth of more than for its best-selling agents for CEO and MD, 24x7Rooms. Mushtak Gafoor ed to market requirements. ing for special deals in the 40 per cent over last year. The various destinations and will com, says, “We have seen an CEO and MD We will also look out for GSA Middle East, South East company has added another make use of multiple plat- encouraging response from 24x7Rooms partners who will promote Asia and African regions,” feather in its cap as it has now forms of digital marketing. few select partners who have our brand in their markets.” Gafoor adds. been appointed as the glo- bal wholesaler for the Dusit Thani Resorts in Thailand and Pathumwan Princess Resorts MBK in Bangkok. Khanna, Founder and CEO, Anchor Destinations, says, “Dusit Resorts is a great brand and needs no introduction to the Indian market. With a per- fect blend of Thai hospitality and its international presence, it is an ideal property for hon- eymooners, families, weddings and groups. We are marketing exclusive packages combined with many sightseeing pro- grammes for the same.”

Deepika Khanna Founder and CEO Anchor Destinations

Talking about the fu- ture plans of the company, Khanna feels that within a very short span of time, the company has made a mar- ket place for itself in terms of service delivery and com- petitive rates and the com- ing months are definitely promising in terms of new destinations like Italy, Spain, Maldives and various hotels that the company is offer- ing to its clients. “Our focus as a global whole seller for the Dusit Thani Resorts in Thailand and Pathumwan Princess Resorts MBK in Bangkok includes increas- ing the room nights of the contracted resorts in Thai- land and offering more vis- ibility to the brand in terms of combined packages and resort focused promotions. As a complete B2B opera- tor, we are focused on the travel trade partners by way of offering various promo- tions, visibility through our emailing campaigns, special rates for MICE operators and/or wedding organisers,” adds Khanna.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 47 03-11-2017 12:23:20 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 48 03-11-2017 12:23:22 NEWS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 49 Tiger Trust to involve youth A different side of South Africa Tiger Trust wants to involve the youth in the field of conservation by tapping schools and colleges at national and international levels. Its vision is to plan a national meet so that they can participate in policy-making decisions.

The Trust’s vision is to build necessary to have a serious TT BUREAU an effective legal infrastructure, relook for granting permissions iger Trust was founded by strong network of trained and for fresh hotels, carrying capac- TPadmashri Late Kailash empowered forest staff that ity in the forest and educate Sankhala, Founding Director provides long-term support for the tourists about the behav- of Project Tiger which was wildlife conservation, especially iour and concern for the wild government of India’s princi- tigers in national parks. Gos- animals. Wildlife tourism should pal initiator of tiger conserva- ain says, “I believe that wildlife invoke passion and a feeling of tion, in India in 1989, to protect tourism and its concept has to responsibility among tourists. 6RXWK$IULFDQ7RXULVP 6$7 KDVH[SDQGHGLWVRIIHULQJLQWKH,QGLDPDUNHWZLWKQHZHUUHJLRQVRIWKH*DUGHQ5RXWH tigers in their natural habitat. change with the times. In view Hence, a well planned and a DQGWKH(DVWHUQ&DSHZKLFKLQFOXGHWKHWRZQVRI.Q\VQD*HRUJH2XGWVKRRUQ3OHWWHQEHUJ%D\3RUW(OL]DEHWKDQG The trust functions in a three- of increasing human-animal friendly approach has to be (DVW/RQGRQ7RVKRZFDVHWKHVHGHVWLQDWLRQV6$7RUJDQLVHGDQGD\WRXUIRUDIHZWUDYHODJHQWVIURP,QGLD pronged approach, namely conflict, it has now become taken by the stakeholders.”

Anjana Gosain &KLHI)XQFWLRQDU\2IÀFHU Tiger Trust Tiger Trust has big SODQVIRUWKH\RXWK LQWKHÀHOGRI FRQVHUYDWLRQE\ involving school and college students at national and international levels

capacity building, awareness campaigns and working with the frontline officers of forest department and tribal peo- ple in the peripheral villages including schools around the national parks.

The trust is now led by Anjana Gosain, Chief Func- tionary Officer, Tiger Trust. Speaking about the direc- tion that the trust has taken, she says, “Tiger Trust has big plans for the youth in the field of conservation by involving school and college students at national and international levels. It has already received support from Clemson Univer- sity, South Carolina, National Association for Tigers and several schools and colleges in India to make this dream come true. The vision is to plan a national meet that will involve the youth in policy- making decisions and to have a forum to address these is- sues and also travel in promi- nent parks together. This is planned for 2019.” Gosain is a practising advocate in the Su- preme Court and High Court with specialisation in environ- mental law and has a standing practice of over 39 years.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 49 03-11-2017 12:23:25 50 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 NTO FEEs earned GXULQJ6HSW· VoA soon for Indians in Zimbabwe recorded at Talking about the importance of the Indian market, Karikoga Kaseke, Chief Executive, `FURUH Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, says that on the behest of the tourism industry the country

According will now be offering visa on arrival to Indians by the end of 2017. to the data re- leased by Min- PRITI KHANNA FROM ZIMBABWE that food is important for visi- tive in the Indian market. We istry of Tour- tors from India. In every town are concentrating not only in ism, Foreign Exchange WJCVKUVJGUKIPKſECPEG How big is the India in Zimbabwe we have many the big cities and metros but Earnings (FEEs) during QQH VJG 5CPICPCK 9QTNF QOCTMGVHQT

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 50 03-11-2017 12:23:29 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 51 03-11-2017 12:23:31 52 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 QUICKBYTES Does India pack the right punch? India has a myriad tourism offerings, but do these assets manage to get enough tourist arrivals to the country? Industry stakeholders share the challenges they face while selling the destination internationally.

TT BUREAU India is a beautiful country, with varied landscapes, offering a range Despite various challenges faced by Destination India in the inbound tourism traffic from traditional of tourist destinations to choose from, markets, India is showing regular increase in the tourist arrivals. Though the stagnation of demand is felt making for a perfect revitalising holi- as a challenge, the Indian tourism industry has started reaching out to alternate potential markets and day. From snowy hills, majestic moun- started cultivating them and generating increased inflow to India. According to FORBES Asia, South Asia tains, scenic valleys, serene beaches is predicted to be the fastest growing region as India outpaces China in the near future. Major countries and calm backwaters to sultry deserts projected to experience strong travel and tourism GDP growth will be India, China, Thailand, Indonesia, and lush forested areas, India has Peru, and Kenya. It is evident that the coming decade will see tremendous growth and revolution in the it all. The magnificent country offers travel, tourism, hospitality and aviation industry. As part of this global phenomenon, India and this region EM Najeeb a plethora of tourist destinations for Santosh Kumar Sharma will be playing a vital role. With that being the future, it goes without saying that the tourism industry will Chairman & Managing thrilling adventure sports, relaxed and Director Director, Air Travel Enterprises Foresee Aviation have a lot to do creatively. Group of Companies (ATE) refreshing holidays as well as memora- and India Travel Award Winner ble romantic vacations. The terror attacks that struck Mumbai in November 2008 dealt a strong blow to tourism in the country. Security has also been a major problem for tourism growth for a number of years. The Golden Tri- angle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur) is India’s only circuit which is world famous. For a vast country like India with di- verse tourism offerings, de- velopment of circuits for vari- ous segments like heritage and culture, adventure, reli- gious, eco, beach, wellness, agri and rural is required.

Lally Matthews Director, Vacations Travels & Tours and Hony. Secretary, IATO

The MOT has taken up many initiatives, including cleanliness drive as well as a new marketing campaign. The effect of all this will not be visible immediately, but in due course of time. UK remains one of the biggest source markets for the coun- try and people keep coming to India as they know about our country. India offers a wide range of tourism prod- ucts, right from heritage, cul- ture, beaches, yoga, wildlife and mountains, which many neighbouring countries can- not offer. However, as a tour operator we are facing many challenges, including high taxation and we hope that it gets rationalised. Cleanli- ness should be our priority, and I am glad that the gov- ernment has taken initiatives for monument maintenance. The hotel rates in India are higher than other destina- tions in Southeast Asia. Although, the government has strengthened its mar- keting approach and with the Prime Minister visiting various countries, people around the world know about India. Contd. on page 56

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 52 03-11-2017 12:23:34 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 53 03-11-2017 12:23:37 54 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 FAMILYALBUM Networking time for JA Resorts & Hotels JA Resorts & Hotels hosted a networking evening for the trade in Mumbai, where a delegation from the hospitality group headed by its COO David Thomson, William Harley-Fleming, Cluster General Manager and Thomas Grundner Group Director of Sales & Marketing for the group welcomed them. The evening saw the guests interacting over cocktails and dinner, while discussing mutually benefitting opportunities.

Europamundo lures Indians Europamundo Vacaciones has witnessed a 30 per cent growth from the India market in 2017 over 2016 and hopes to grow by 50 per cent in 2018.

TT BUREAU

uropamundo Vacaciones, Ea coach tour company from Spain, operating globally, saw 30 per cent growth in the number of Indian travellers taking their services in 2017 over 2016. Luis García Co- drón, Chief Executive Officer, Europamundo Vacaciones, says, “We started offering Aparna C Basumalik our product in India only two Luis García Codrón &KLHI([HFXWLYH2IÀFHU Country Head-India years ago and have catered Europamundo Vacaciones Europamundo Vacaciones to almost 6000 Indian pas- sengers till now. This year we saw a 30 per cent growth over mountains, etc. “We are very clients travelling with us have our debut year last year and happy with the response we a variety to choose from. hope to record around 50 per have received from our Indian They can either take an entire cent growth next year with over clients and this will help us ca- coach tour from one destina- 9000 Indian passengers.” ter to them in a better way, we tion to the other or can choose are going to introduce special to take a part of the trip with Codrón informs that itineraries designed for the us, de-board and board again the company caters to over Indian clients. We understand at some other destination. 150,000 passengers every that Indians are very sensitive The beauty of our service is year from across the globe about their meals and hence, that no trip is ever cancelled.” and is planning to introduce we will offer Indian meals dur- The company is a pure B2B some newer itineraries for ing the tours,” says Codrón. provider wherein Europa- Morocco, Italy, France, Scan- mundo sells various products dinavia, Japan and Russia Aparna C Basumalik, to the distributers in India and in 2018. He points out that Country Head-India, Europa- no customer can make direct the Indian travellers are very mundo Vacaciones, believes bookings with them. The com- interesting as they have an that the USP of the company mission offered is higher than eye for detail and tend to en- is the flexibility they offer to the average market standard, joy landscape, nature, snow, their clients. She says, “The informs Basumalik.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 54 03-11-2017 12:23:45 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 55 03-11-2017 12:23:48 56 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 QUICKBYTES 5D]GDQZLQV5DLG'H+LPDOD\D([WUHPH&DU5DOO\ Is India ‘incredible’ 7KHthHGLWLRQRI5DLG'H+LPDOD\D([WUHPH&DU5DOO\ZDVKHOG IURP2FWREHUZKHUH6DQMD\5D]GDQ'LUHFWRU5D]GDQ for tourists? +ROLGD\VVHFXUHGWKHÀUVWSRVLWLRQLQ&&FODVVDQGZDVGH- st clared the overall 1 UXQQHUXSLQDOONLQGVRIFDUV5DLG'H+LPD- Contd. from page 52 OD\DLVFRQVLGHUHGWKHWRXJKHVWFDUUDOO\LQ,QGLDZLWKFDUVUDFLQJLQ extreme conditions, extreme temperatures, crossing some of the The October season for inbound KLJKHVWSDVVHVLQWKHZRUOG7KLV\HDUWKHUDOO\URXWHZDV0DQDOL ²*UDPSKX²/RVDU².D]D²/RVDU²*UDPSKX²3DQJ²'HEULQJ² business to India has been low 'DW²'HEULQJ²/HK²6DQNX²8PEDOD²'UDVV²8PEDOD²6DQNX as compared to previous arrivals ².DUJLO²3HQ]LOD².DUJLO²'UDVV²8PEDOD6DQNX²/HK in these months. The new Incred- ible India 2.0 campaign has been launched. However, the visibility in travel shows would work only if the tax regime is rationalised. Also, there is widespread negative pub- Rajiv Mehra licity brought about by media cov- Director, Uday Tour & Travels erage outside India, which is not and Vice President, IATO good for tourism. In terms of rates, we need to be competent with neighbouring destinations, but that is not the case. Promotion of tourism outside India should be done by tourism offices in those countries as embassies can’t do it. However, those offices are short of staff at most of the places. While e-Visa has been good, there are long queues at the immigration counters for the same be- cause of shortage of staff at the airports. Despite all these challenges, we are expecting November to be normal in terms of business and arrivals, while Decem- ber and January could prove to be a challenge for us. We are expecting Feb- ruary and March to bring decent business.

NS Rathor CEO, Garha Tours & Travels

For the time being, GST has killed the inbound business and foreign tour- ists are preferring to go to neighbouring destinations like Bhutan, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong and Sri Lanka instead. I don’t think we are going to have a very good in- bound season this year. To make the business bloom again, we need to settle the GST regime first as it has put us in the highest bracket of tax and made the packages costly. While the tax on ASI monu- ments has come down, we still end up paying 12 per cent GST on tickets. However, the management in the Tourism Ministry is in best hands today with a dynamic minister and secretary. We hope that they are able to turn things around for us.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 56 03-11-2017 12:23:52 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 57 03-11-2017 12:23:55 58 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 STATESXYZ Himachal Pradesh has many hidden hamlets vying to charm travellers with their pristine natural beauty and cultural innocence. One can also take the road less travelled to discover the many secret hideaways in this mystical land, which is already a hotspot for adventure and religious tourism. Road less travelled in Himachal Pradesh Barog: Barog, on the Bhaba Pass: From Badrinath towards the north. tropical monsoon rains, the Kalka-Shimla highway, has Wangtu, a road turns off to This is an excellent area for valley is one of the offbeat grown from a mere stopover Kafnu and here begins one trekking during summer and tourism destinations in the to a full-fledged destination. of the most beautiful trek early winter. state. There are beautiful Surrounded by pine forests, routes in Himachal. To the valleys within the Pangi it presents a fascinating east, the Bhaba Valley leads Dharamkot: Situated on region like Sural, Saichu, view of the Churdhar Peak, to the Pin Valley in Spiti the crest of a hill 11km from Kumar-Parmar, Hundan which poetically translates and to the west, the routes Dharamshala and 2km from and Sechu. All these valleys into 'Mountain of the Silver move to Kullu through the McLeod Ganj, the village are connected by the Bangle'. HPTDC runs Hotel Parbati Valley. Dharamkot is a picnic spot that Zanskar range. Pinewood here and Barog affords a panoramic view of is increasingly becoming Chindi: Hillsides covered the Kangra valley, Pong Dam Renuka Lake: The most Lake and Dhauladhar Range. important place of tourist Dharamkot village is a good interest in Sirmaur is the base for trekkers undertaking sacred and picturesque short and long treks. lake of Renuka, 38km from Nahan via Dadahu. It is one Janjehli: At a distance of of the most beautiful lakes in 85km from Mandi, Janjehli Himachal Pradesh, having is one of the virgin tourist crystal clear water and shaped places, where tourists chance like a sleeping woman. upon nature at its best. It is also a paradise for hikers, Shoja: This is a vantage offering treks up to a height of point for a complete 3,300m. The famous unique panorama of the Kulla area. temple of Shikari Devi is It provides an encompassing about 15km from Janjehli. In view of snow peaks and this valley, tourists can also valleys, meadows and visit the Kamrunag temple forests, rivers and streams. and a sacred lake. Bifurcating from Aut from the National Highway, Shoja is a popular conference with thick forests, acres filled Karsog: The wide Karsog just 5 km short of Jallori Pass. destination too. with apple orchards, small valley lies below Chindi A walk of 5km from the Pass picturesque hamlets and re- and has good excursion takes you to the Sarolsar Barot: Situated 22km away markable views in all direc- spots. Apple orchards add Lake among deep forests. from Joginder Nagar, and tions make up Chindi and thier attraction to the area The road further connects ruler of Kangra region Hall' and some exquisite 11km away from the Haulage the area around it. It is an and Chindi is surrounded to Rampur, Narkanda and from 1806 till 1824. Known frescos on the walls Trolley, Barot packs an enor- excellent offbeat destination by them. Karsog valley in Shimla via Ani and Luhri. as a builder and patron of of Narbadeshwar and mous range of outdoor activi- that holds the charms that the Mandi district is famous Pahari miniature paintings, Gauri Shankar temple ties. A trout-breeding centre Himachal is famous for. Mo- for apple orchards and Sujanpur Tira: Sujanpur a fortified palace at Tira are testimony of Sansar makes it a wonderful place for torable on the Shimla-Mandi dense forests. In the Karsog was a refuge of Sansar overlooking Sujanpur town, Chand's abilities. angling. Across the river Uhl highway via Tattapani, it is a area, Kamaksha Devi and Chand Katoch, a great remnants of 'Barahari is the Nargu Wild Life Sanc- beautiful and unexplored des- Mahunag are the famous tuary, home to the Ghoral, tination in Karsog Valley. temples. Tattapani, that lies in Himalayan Black Bear and a the Mandi district, is famous variety of pheasants. Churdhar: Dominating for hot water springs. the entire landscape of fields, forests and ravines Pangi valley: Full of Experiences Galore is the Churdhar Peak, a grandeur and tribal majesty Barot, a trout-breeding trekker's treat from Nahan is the landlocked valley centre makes it a wonder- and Renuka. Approached by of Pangi, 173km from ful place for angling road from Dadahu, Sangrah, Chamba via Sach Pass From Wangtu, a road Bhawal, Gandhuri and (4,414 m). It is one of the WXUQVRIIWR.DIQXDQG Nauhra, it is a 50km trek. subdivisions of Chamba here begins one of the The peak offers a fine view of district, surrounded by the most beautiful trek routes the Gangetic plains and the Peer Panjal and Zanskar LQ+LPDFKDO Satluj River in the south, and ranges. Beyond the reach of

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 58 03-11-2017 12:24:05 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 59 03-11-2017 12:24:08 60 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 FAMILYALBUM EDWIN: Agents say Juleh to Ladakh Ladakh played host to 50 travel agents and tour operators who participated in the first Educational Destination Workshop-International (EDWIN) by Global Panorama Showcase (GPS). The delegation, led by Harmandeep Singh Anand, Managing Director, GPS, explored popular sights and attractions at the destination and interacted with the local operators in Ladakh.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 60 03-11-2017 12:24:14 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 61 03-11-2017 12:24:16 62 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 FAMILYALBUM Almaty mesmerises Indian agents Destination Travel Services along with Air Astana Airline, Ritz Carlton Hotel and Rizox Hotel, hosted a familiarisation trip to Almaty. It was the company’s second Fam trip where they hosted key travel agents from India to showcase the country's tourism potential.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 62 03-11-2017 12:24:25 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 63 03-11-2017 12:24:29 64 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 AGENTS MICE as a new era of tourism Follow the digital wave In a positive move for the MICE sharamani, Vice Chairman, ICPB was chaired by Rajan and moder- segment, the government aims to and Managing Director, Alpcord ated by Rajan Sehgal, Member, Having recoded a significant growth in business in 2017, Akash roll out the National Tourism Policy, Network Travel & Conferences FICCI Tourism Committee, Chair- Travels plans to follow the digital revolution and become an which is expected to provide single Management Company, said that man- Northern Region, TAAI and window clearance for organisa- MICE was an economic activity President, India Golf Tourism As- online travel platform soon to offer bookings for flights, hotels tion of meetings and conferences. and there was an imperative need sociation. The session threw light This was indicated by Satyajeet for the creation of a market for on how India as a country can work and holiday packages on the go. Rajan, Director General, Ministry the sector. on its diverse qualities of unique of Tourism, Government of India, The state of West has MICE offerings. Rakhi Kankaria, at the recently-held second edi- sprung lucrative potential of MICE Member FICCI Tourism Commit- TT BUREAU travel software to create pack- makes one tour preferable tion of Global MICE Travel Mart tourism, stated Amitava Rathod, tee, elucidated on how a collabo- ages faster and with simplicity to another. He says, “Akash (GMTM) from September 14-15, Deputy General Manager, West ration between government and kash Travels plans to go so that the response time to a Travels is eager to offer top 2017 in Delhi. Rajan opined that Bengal Tourism Development agencies can help develop MICE Athe digital way by making query of the customer is less level services to our valued there was a pressing need to Corporation. With the advent of in the country optimally. With states their company an online travel and the customer can be pro- guests. We suggest that one conduct a study to assess size of Digha and Bagdogra coming up in like Maharashtra and West Bengal portal. This move will allow vided with a quote in real time,” should consider the additional the industry and that a consultant the state, West Bengal is bound to state governments going gung-ho their customers to book flights, says Akash Agarwal, Propri- benefits and value we have to was being appointed to suggest a lead the country in MICE tourism, on the MICE facilities in the respec- hotels, holiday packages and etor, Akash Travels. offer over and above the de- workable roadmap for the develop- he added. A panel discussion on tive states, the future of MICE in In- all other travel accessories liverables when comparing ment of the sector. Chander Man- the 'Next big step on MICE in India' dia looks bright. on a single platform. “We are Agarwal feels that it is the our products with those of making use of automated special attention to detail that other operators.” He appeals

Akash Agarwal Proprietor Akash Travels

We need to create an environment for valuable and comprehensive in- formation coupled with an aggressive PDUNHWLQJVWUDWHJ\ in order to boost inbound tourism

to the travel industry to al- low for a level playing field to make space for companies of all sizes to do business.

Agarwal believes that tourism is an important pillar for the economy of almost eve- ry country. While some coun- tries have done well in terms of this sector, others need to pull up their socks to do bet- ter. “In case of the tourism sector in India, the Incredible India campaign will be instru- mental in boosting inbound segment of travel. We need to create an environment for valuable and comprehensive information coupled with an aggressive marketing strat- egy to boost inbound tourism,” adds Agarwal.

On the marketing front, the company plans to launch its TV promo soon. Other forms of marketing and promotional plans include collaboration with various media platforms and participation in travel trade shows and exhibitions. The company also engages in SEO marketing, Google Ad market- ing and marketing through so- cial media platforms.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 64 03-11-2017 12:24:31 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 65 03-11-2017 12:24:33 66 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 AWARDTALK Ahmedabad welcomes our very Ahmedabad played host to the fourth edition of the West India Travel Awards, held at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre on October 15. Pioneers and achievers from the travel and tourism industry in this region were rewarded for their hard work and sincere dedication in the interest of the entire industry.

CHIEFCHIEF GUESTGUEST GUESTGUESTO OFF HONOURHONOUR GUESTGUESTO OFF HONOURHONOUR Bhupendrasinh Manubha Chudasama, Cabinet Minister, Revenue, Education Nirav Munshi, Manager (Tours & Travels), Gujarat Tourism Dr. Marisha Kaul, Gladrags Mrs. India–North 2017 (Primary, Secondary and Adult), Higher and Technical Education, Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs, Government of Gujarat

BESTBEST GENERALGENERAAL MANAGERMANAGER MOSTMOST TRENDINGTRENDING PPERSONALITYERSONALITY MOSTMOST ENTERPRISINGENTERPRISING CORPORATECORPORATE TRAVELTRAVEL SanjaySanjay Kaushik,CrowneKaushik,C Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre Nagsri Prasad PROFESSIONAL Ikson Menezes

BESBESTST EEXPERIENTIALXPERIENTIAL TOURTOUR OOPERATORPERATOR BESTBEST GLOBALGLOBAL DDISTRIBUTIONISTRIBUTION SSYSTEMYSTEM (GDS)(GDS) BESTBESTC CASINOASINO HHOTELOTEL CCoxox & Kings Travelport Galileo Deltin Suites

BESTBESTB B2B2B TTRAVELRAVEL PORTALPORTAL BESTBESB T MICEMICE OOPERATORPERATOR BESTBESB T ADVENTUREADVENTURE DESTINATIONDESTINATION Travel BoutiqueBoutiqu Online Club 7 Holidays South African Tourism

BESTBESSTC CUSTOMISEDUSTOMISED TOURTOUR OPERATOROPERATOR BESTBESTB BUSINESSUSINESS TTRAVELRAVEL AAGENCYGENCY BESTBESTF FOREIGNOREIGN EXCHANGEEXCHANGE AGGREGATORAGGREGATOR XtremeXtrem Destinations Nextourism FxKart.com

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 66 03-11-2017 12:25:16 AWARDTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 67 y own Maya with arms wide open

BESTBESTW WEDDINGEDDING ANDAND MICEMICE HOTELHOTEL BESTBEST TOURTOUR OOPERATORPERATOR BESTBESTC CITYITY HOTELHOTEL Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre Napolitan Travel Agency Co. Sayaji Hotels Kolhapur

BESTBEST AAIRLINEIRLINE - DOMESTICDOMESTIC BESTBEST MID-MARKETMID MARKET HOTELHOTEL BESTBEST DESTINATIONDESTINATION MMANAGEMENTANAGEMENT COMPANYCOMPANY SpiceJet Hyatt Place Pune Hinjawadi STHI Holidays India

BESTBEST MIMICECE DESTINATIONDESTINATION BESTBESTB BEACHEACH RESORTRESORT PREFERREDPREFERRED MIMICECE SOLUTIONSSOLUTIONS The Deltin Daman MAP5 VILLAGE RESORT, GOA PROVIDER Trip Navigator

BESTBEST LLEISUREEISURE HOTELHOTEL BESTBEST LUXURYLUXURY TOURTOUR OPERATOROPERATOR – OUTBOUNDOUTBOUND EXCELLENCEEXCELLENCEI INNC CUSTOMERUSTOMER SERVICESERVICE Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Alibaug Mercury Travels Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan

BESTBESBE T DDESTINATIONESTINATION MMANAGEMENTANAGEMENT COMPANYCOMPANY – BESTBESB T VISAVISA FACILITATIONFACILITATION COMPANYCOMPANY FASTESTFASFA TEST GROWINGGROWING TRAVELTRAVEL COMCOMPANYPAANYANY AMERICAS Udaan India Xplore Destinations 7M Tours Contd. on page 68

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 67 03-11-2017 12:26:12 68 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 AWARDTALK Honouring stalwarts in West India

Contd. from page 67

BEST DESTINATION WEDDING RESORT BEST DESTINATION MANAGEMENT BEST FOREIGN EXCHANGE BEST DESTINATION Madhubhan Resort & Spa COMPANY- SOUTH EAST ASIA COMPANY MANAGEMENT COMPANY - TravelBullz CentrumDirect DOMESTIC Mountain Edge Tours & Holidays

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY BEST FLOATING CASINO HOTEL BEST TOUR OPERATOR- BEST TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY Solanki Holidays Deltin Caravela OUTBOUND Ciclo Tourism Pvt. Ltd World Travel Studio

BESTBEST BOUTIQUE TOUR BEST CORPORATE TRAVEL PRACTICE BEST MICE CONSOLIDATOR BEST TOUR OPERATOR - OOPERATORPER Mahindra & Mahindra JJs Tours VEGETARIANS/JAIN NexusNexus TravelsT Nextourism

BESTBEST SPORTSSPORP TS TTOURISMOURISM COCOMPANYMPANY FASTESTFASTEST GROWINGGROWING HOTELHOTELB BRANDRAND BESTBESTC CASINOASINO SportsSports KKonnecton MAP5 HOTELS Deltin Royale

BEST TTRAVELRAVE INSURANCE PROVIDER BEST BUSINESS HOTEL BEST CORPORATE HOTEL TrawellTagTrawellTag CCover-Moreov Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad Holiday Inn Express Ahmedabad

HOSPITALITYHOSPITALITY PPARTNERARTNER PREMIERPREMIER PPARTNERARTNER Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre Mystifly Consulting India

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 68 03-11-2017 12:27:15 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 69 03-11-2017 12:27:17 70 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 STATES Manipur The Land of Jewels

Seek refuge in the quaint state of Manipur and explore nature’s bounties, ancient remains of an erstwhile kingdom, in addition to innumerable festivals that reflect the rich culture of the region.

anipur is strategically located in the Northeastern corner of India bordering Myanmar. Nes- tled at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, the state is considered the Gateway to South- East Asia. The serene beauty of the state, that Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru once described as the M‘Land of Jewels’, leaves every traveller spellbound. Least touched and least discovered, the state is a promising tourist destination for adventure and nature lovers alike.

TOP THINGS TO DO: Today, Kangla is developed attracts large number of devo- into a unique archeological tees who participate in various Loktak Lake and Keibul and heritage park. The Ima devotional activities. Tourists Lamjao Market, which is counted as are welcomed to come and For any visitor, the prin- one of the largest women-only join in the daily festivities at the cipal attraction of the state is markets in Asia, is a stone’s historic Govindajee temple and the Loktak Lake in Bishnupur throw away from the Western other temples in and around District. It is a beautiful stretch Gate of Kangla. Imphal city. of water resembling a miniature inland sea. A day spent at Lok- Escape to the green Celebrate festivals with tak Lake is a lifetime of memo- hills the locals ries. Visitors can catch a bird’s Head to Ukhrul district Manipur is a land of festi- eye view of the lake from Send- and enjoy the company of the vals and almost every month the people of Manipur get together to celebrate vari- *RYLQGDML7HPSOHDW.DQJOD

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ra. Fishermen living in the float- locals—the brave and colour- ing islands called Phumdis, in ful Tangkhul tribe. It is situ- floating huts known as Phum- ated 40 miles away from the sangs, are unique sights of this Imphal City and is famous for lake. A part of the lake hosts the its Shirui Lily – a species of Keibul Lamjao National Park, lily found nowhere else in the .KDQJNKXL&DYH8NKUXO .DQJODVD which is home to the Brow Ant- world other than the Shirui Hill lered Deer – Sangai, only found range. The Dzuko track in Se- ous festivals, which reflect the 6KLUXL+LOODQGLWV/LOLHV3LFE\3UL\RMLN$NRLMDP in Manipur. napati and the Bunning track in state’s rich culture, tradition Tamenglong also offer a chal- and religious practices. Ya- Kangla lenge to the intrepid adventur- oshang, Gaan Ngai, Chei- A visit to Kangla at the ous traveller willing to explore raoba, Lai-Haraoba, Kang, heart of Imphal city unfolds the the unexplored. Heikru Hidongba, Kut and Lui proud history of the erstwhile Ngaini are just some of the Asiatic Kingdom dating back Shree Govindajee festivals celebrated by differ- to 33 AD. The British took over Temple ent communities in the state. in 1891 and buried their influ- Shree Govindajee Temple Manipur Sangai Festival, ence on architecture. It is the is another historic centre of celebrated every year from quintessential symbol of the the Vaishnavites in Manipur. It November 21-30, is a major state’s culture and heritage. is a twin-domed temple which tourist attraction.

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TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 71 03-11-2017 12:27:41 STATES Known for its natural beauty and panoramic landscapes, Jammu and Kashmir is moving from the obvious to promote adventure tourism in the Adrenaline kick in state. Places like Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Jammu & Kashmir Pahalgam and Drass are brimming Rafting are organised on a regular the luxuries fitted that make with opportunities With the intricate net- basis are Apsarasas, Chong playing golf a memorable work of Mountain Rivers Kumdan, Teram Kangri experience while the Royal for adventure and flowing through myriad rocky Group, Tughmo Zarpo and Spring Golf Course has been sports enthusiasts gorges, forests, flowers and Saser Kangri. Places like voted as India’s best Golf high mountain villages, the Pahalgam, Gulmarg and course. to explore. Lidder River, Pahalgam pro- vides ideal locales for the perfect water adventure. The suitable period for river running depends on the ad- equacy of water volume. Thus, the period between April and September is most appropriate. Skiing Skiing is one of the prime attractions in Kash- mir and is apt for adventure seekers. Gulmarg is con- sidered to be the best ski resort in the Himalayas and is accredited as the highest cable car enabled ski resort in the world mainly due to a Gondola Cable Car Lift. For skiers visiting Gulmarg, ac- commodation is available at the JKTDC Huts situated at Patnitop, Sanasar and Kud Sonamarg serve as base apart from the several private camps for trekking tours to hotels available for booking mountain peaks. at Patnitop and Kud Golfing Para Gliding Kashmir offers a unique Aero sports are a rage opportunity to play golf in among travellers in Kash- invigorating surroundings, mir. Amongst the numerous where the wind whispers aero sports, paragliding is through enormous trees of the most popular. Also, it is chinar and stately pine. The one of the latest adventure golf course at Gulmarg, situ- sports that is picking up fast ated at an altitude of 2,650 in the Valley. Paragliding m, is the highest green golf takes you on a tour of the course in the world. The green valleys and majes- Kashmir Golf Club has all tic mountains of Kashmir. Looking from above, you will find the breathtaking sight of the Valley below. The very best time for pa- ragliding, specifically in Sa- nasar, will be the interval of May-June and September- October. Mountaineering Climbing in the Himala- yas can be very stimulating. Rich in flora and fauna, the summits of most peaks are an exhilarating experience. More recently, peaks in the restricted area of the Nubra Valley in the Inaian Karako- rams have also been opened to foreign and Indian tour- ists. The popular peaks of Ladakh and Kashmir where mountaineering expeditions

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 72 03-11-2017 12:27:45 AGENTS NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 73 Pave way to a road less travelled Ethiopia offers e-visas to Parveen Holidays wants to promote rare products such as the Hidden MICE participants Temple and Cave tours and Submerged Temple tours to make Destination Ethiopian Immigration and Na- ism, Ethiopia has still a lot to do tionality Affairs main Department to tap into the sector and the India even more appealing to discerning inbound tourists. in collaboration with Ethiopian launching of an e-visa service Airlines Group launched e-visa for MICE is an impetus for the services for African and inter- exponential demand of Ethio- TT BUREAU countries and talking to them Meanwhile, the domes- In India, it serves its cor- national participants of Meet- pia’s conference tourism; saving about our unique products that tic market remains its main- porate clients by providing staff ings, Incentives, Conferences, time and cost besides inducing arveen Holidays, a unit of we have to offer to internation- stay. He says, “Our domestic transportation. On an average, and Exhibitions (MICE) held in a modern online visa applica- PParveen Travels and win- al travellers. We are focused tourism business is huge more than 36,000 corporates Ethiopia effective September 20, tion process with more simplicity ner of the South India Travel on promoting market-wise as compared to other seg- every day are using its luxury 2017. With this, MICE travellers and efficiency. Ethiopian offers Awards, is an integrated trav- products, some of which are ments. However, a stream- fleets. “Apart from this we have to Ethiopia will be able to issue special fares and discounts be- el, tourism and technology around the birth and growth of lined structure is required to our international branch in their visas online, book, pay and sides availing custom designed company, with more than 50 Indian civilization tours, sub- educate the travel agents and Dubai, 40 branches and 300+ check-in their flight with Ethio- tour packages to various tourist years of industry experience. merged architecture, hidden tour operators or even the affiliated agents exclusively pian, all online. sites in the country. I thank our It has more than 1,000 luxury caves and temples of India, ticketing agents about it. We working with us in India. We Ethiopian Airlines' Group IT team and colleagues at Ethio- fleets of buses and sedans as and tribal tours. These are the have our own B2B network want to take the number of CEO Tewolde Gebre Mariam, pian Immigration and Nationality well as exclusive contract with products that foreign tourists across India from Tier II, III affiliated agents to 7,000 this remarked, “With the immense Affairs main Department for a all-category hotels and re- love,” Krishna adds. and IV cities.” year,” Krishna adds. potential for conference tour- gratifying collaboration.” sorts, such as jungle resorts, eco resorts, floating resorts,

Murali Krishna Asst. General Manager Parveen Holidays As of now, our inbound business LVQ·WPXFKEXWE\ QH[W\HDUZHDUH planning to achieve more than SHUFHQWRIWKH LQERXQGWUDIÀF

backwater resorts, beach re- sorts, tree houses and luxu- ry-home stays across India.

Murali Krishna, Asst. General Manager, Parveen Holidays, says, “We believe in presenting India in a way that is quite unique, with tours on submerged temples and hid- den architecture, which reflect the ancient civilizations of In- dia and give a glimpse of our unexplored culture and tradi- tion. International tourists love such tours as they are always interested in the Indian history. We aim to project India the way it is and showcase its uniqueness to the interna- tional market.”

He highlights the mar- kets where Parveen Holidays is focusing and adds, “As of now, our inbound business isn’t much but by next year, we are planning to achieve more than 20 per cent of the inbound traffic.” For this, the company participates in various international shows like JATA, ITB Asia, WTM London, FITUR Madrid and ITB Berlin.

“We are reaching out to local tour operators in these

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 73 03-11-2017 12:27:47 74 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 QUICKBYTES Shorter breaks mark inbound trend With the advent of technology and new players in the tourism industry, inbound tour packages have undergone many changes, compelling tour operators to change gears to cater to the demands of the new-age foreign tourists.

TT BUREAU The dynamics of inbound tour The addition of newer products, There is a shift in inbound travel packages has changed dramati- development of infrastructure and pattern to India especially from Europe cally over the years. The number of evolving technology has changed the and the UK. Among the foreign tourists dynamics of travel. OTAs are becom- from these source markets, we have days spent in India by foreign tour- witnessed a trend that tourists are tak- ists has reduced from 14-21 days ing more aggressive and competitive ing shorter breaks with shorter lead to mostly 3-5 nights now. Earlier, with their user-friendly tools and are time. This season in particular, has the advance booking period ranged bypassing the middlemen. Today, tour- seen an increase in this phenomenon from one year to six months where- ists ask for hassle-free and value-for- and looks like a definitive changing as today, foreign tourists book with money holidays. Foreign tourists of Arup Sen Sunil Gupta all budgets travel to India and thus, Vikram Madhok pattern. Earlier, foreign tourists would Director - Special Projects, a few days to spare as the dynam- Director India Travel Award winner and book well in advance but more recent- Cox & Kings, India Travel ics of online booking has led to a Travel Bureau the duration ranges from 3-21 days. Managing Director, ly, they are booking only 2-3 weeks be- Award winner paradigm shift in the way tourists Budget travellers and backpackers are Abercrombie & Kent India increasingly using online platforms to book hotels, train and bus fore travelling in the same month. Also, approach travel. The increase in air seat capacity both on the duration of stay has come down to 5-6 nights as compared tickets and domestic flights. Golden Triangle, Rajasthan, Kerala the inbound and domestic sectors has also given custom- to several weeks in India. Demand for experiential products in and Varanasi along with the Buddhist tours are very popular. India is on the rise. ers the flexibility to book at the last minute.

The dynamics of inbound tours is An inbound tour package in India The dynamics of travel is chang- changing at a breakneck speed. With is no longer about the Golden Tri- ing not only in India but globally where internet and technology, destinations angle. Now, tourists are asking for technology has played a big role. With to be sold have to be re-discovered, packages to specific destinations changing times, the customer profile, re-branded and re-packaged. Tour like Kerala where they want to un- too, has changed and this is leading the operators are re-engineering their dertake Ayurveda therapies, stay in innovation which is required when tour business to sustain competition not the house boats and visit Munnar, packages are formulated. There are two only from within the industry, but from Kumarakom, Thekkady, Kovalam, categories in business; one is technol- global operators as well. With dimin- etc. Packages for adventure travel ogy and price oriented while the other is Prateek Hira Subhash Goyal Debjit Dutta ishing margins and disseminated President & CEO are increasingly gaining more popu- India Travel Award winner and knowledge and innovation based and we India Travel Award winner and knowledge among intending tourists, Tornos India larity and offbeat destinations are in Chairman, STIC Travel Group have to find our expertise, capacity and Founder & CEO the industry has to learn and evolve in higher demand. Foreign tourists have also research the profile of the customers. Impression Tourism Services order to match the knowledge of travellers and cater to the unique demands like Bollywood tours; medical tourism; We can no longer sell destinations; we have to sell products which unique demands for niche experiences. Yoga and meditation courses, etc. are specific to the customer profile and the market dynamics.

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 74 03-11-2017 12:27:50 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 75 03-11-2017 12:27:52 76 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 STATES Popularly known for its spiritual connect, Bihar offers heritage, culture, eco-tourism and much more to its domestic and international tourists. In order to boost tourism in the state, the government is formulating an aggressive marketing campaign, informs Pankaj Kumar, Secretary-Tourism, Government of Bihar.

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TT BUREAU Please share Bihar will come up with a market- The tourism circuit development plan includes QTourism’s plans for ing campaign for Bihar. We How has tourism been an integrated development approach which 2018. will utilise a mix of traditional QKP$KJCTKP! A focused set of initia- as well as new-age marketing Bihar hosted as many as LQFOXGHVUHYDPSLQJRINH\DWWUDFWLRQVDQFLOODU\ tives will be put in place for media, including digital media, 28,516,127 domestic tourists products and development of amenities the necessary development to launch the brand campaign. and 1,010,531 foreign tour- which will primarily focus ists in the year 2016. Bihar such as shopping, food & beverage, on positioning Bihar among is ranked at the 13th posi- UHVWVKHOWHUDQGWRLOHWV its target audience. We also tion in India in terms of total aim to empower enablers domestic tourist arrivals and Pankaj Kumar which will in turn uplift the ranked at the 18th position in Secretary-Tourism service standards and qual- terms of total foreign tourist Government of Bihar ity of the tourism industry in arrivals. The largest source the state. These interventions markets for the state for in- How does Bihar Please share an terms of basic infrastructure, have been planned keeping bound tourists are Sri Lanka, Q6QWTKUOYQTMYKVJVJG Qupdate on the tourism better connectivity, variety of in mind the complete tour- Bhutan, Nepal and South- VTCXGNVTCFG! RTQLGEVU CNTGCF[ KPKVKCVGF products, etc., to enhance ism value chain and strategic east Asia. The travel trade is an es- by the state tourism board. their experience. The plan focus areas which are to be sential part of functioning in the Bihar is working on the comprises an integrated de- addressed in the coming year. What are the tourism tourism industry and we work development of various tour- velopment approach which For the marketing and brand- Qassets  RTQFWEVU QH very closely with them. The Bi- ism circuits like the Buddha includes revamping of key ing of Bihar, we are develop- $KJCT! har State Tourism Development Circuit, Ramayana Circuit, attractions, ancillary products ing a targeted communication Bihar offers its tourists Corporation (BSTDC) works Guru Circuit, Shiv–Shakti and development of ameni- design and strategy to reach a variety of tourism products in the direction of increasing Circuit and the Sufi Circiut. ties such as shopping, food out to the target population in that can cater to the varied tourism in the state in collabo- Work is going on for the Jain and beverage, and shelters. definite geographies and we Maner Sharif tastes of travellers and ap- ration with the trade. Various Circuit, Kawariyan Circuit, peal to people across all ages. packages are available with Gandhi Circuit and develop- Please elaborate on Bihar has always been known BSTDC, which give tourists ment of Mandar hill and Ang QVJG WREQOKPI GXGPVU as a destination for religious a variety of choice according Pradesh. A centenary year KP$KJCTKP. sites but the fact is that Bi- to their preference. Introduc- of Champaran Satyagrah is The coming season is har is also very rich in herit- tion of seasonal packages is being celebrated by the Bi- the season of festivals and age and culture and has a an ongoing process. Some of har Government in 2017. The events in Bihar. A month-long plethora of products that cater these packages are directly development of such circuits Sonepur Mela will be held to eco-tourism and spiritual sold by BSTDC while some will help the tourism depart- from November 2, 2017. From tourism among other types of are sold through trusted travel ment to provide better tour- November 25-27, 2017, Bihar travel segments. trade partners. ist facilities and services in will celebrate Rajgir Mahotsav, a three-day-long celebration %RGK*D\D at Rajgir, Bihar, where various local and international artists will showcase their art. In Jan- uary 2017, Bihar was host to the 350th Prakash Parva. Now, the state will celebrate the concluding ceremony of this festival from December 23-25, 2017, where the Government of Bihar will set up a tented city at Bypass and Kangan Ghat for the devotees, along with the pandals for this cul- tural programme. Mahabodhi Mahavira

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 76 03-11-2017 12:27:58 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 77 03-11-2017 12:28:00 78 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 STATES Walk through a myriad experiences in Delhi Indian capital Delhi, with its meandering lanes, offers ments from the late-Mughal heritage walk of period. The park is a delight for nearly 1.5 km for its visitors a unique sense of history and culture. nature lovers and bird lovers. about two hours. This walk of 1.5 km takes two The best time to Travellers can absorb vibes of the old historical city hours to complete and is an experience his- exquisite experience. tory in this area while taking walking tours through modern-day Delhi or is between 8 am and 10 am. just grab a rickshaw. Archaeological Park Popularly known as Jamali Jama about two hours to complete. Kamali, this park is unique in Masjid & The best time for this walk is being dotted with ruins from lanes of Chandni Chowk is the main from 8 am to 10 am. early medieval times to the street of the old city of Delhi 19th century. Its main attrac- One of the (Shahjahanabad). Chandni tions include the and largest Chowk literally means moonlight This heritage walk ex- tomb of Jamali, a step-well and in Asia, the Jama square and derives its name plores the medieval ruins in residence of a British official. It Masjid offers an ex- from the fact that originally, a Hauz Khas Village and Deer takes about two hours to com- cellent view of the entire old Neighbourhood of canal ran down the centre of Park. The madrasa and tomb plete this heritage walk of ap- city. This walk takes guests Old Fort of Sultan Firuz Shah Tughluq proximately 2 km and is a walk through the narrow lanes Close to River Yamuna are unique among monuments down the history. of Old Delhi with mansions, and dotted with ruins from in the city of Delhi. There are colourful bazaars, Jain tem- the medieval period, the classrooms, living quarters and 1857 Uprising: ples and stalls selling street walk includes the Khairul remains from the 14th century, Kashmiri Gate and food. The walk is a foodie’s Manazil built by Akbar's chief built along the edge of a lake. neighbourhood paradise and within two hours, nurse, Maham Anga and the The , too, has some This walk in the old city of participants can get a taste of place from where a murder- massive buildings with incred- Delhi takes guests through the India’s flavour. ous attack on the king took ible names like ‘The in landmarks of the uprising of place; the shrines of Khwaja the garden of the world’ and India in 1857 against the Brit- Nuruddin and Shaikh Abu ‘The gifted dome’. Guests meet ish rule. It also covers life and A 14th century capital of Bakr; the burial (that might at the entrance to the Deer Park times of British living in the city Delhi, Tughlaqabad is ruins not be) of one of most revered in Hauz Khas Village. This 1.5 before the revolt broke out. The frozen in time. The remains of poets of Persia - Bedil; and a km walk can be completed in trail includes Nicholson Ceme- this massive complex stretch temple for Bhairon, established one and a half hour. One can tery, Kashmiri Gate, St. James as far as the eye can see. to protect the legendary visit this area anytime of the day Church, old campuses of Hin- This fort includes a royal . Various experts though the sunrise and sunset du College and St. Stephen's, tomb that once stood in like Delhi Heritage Walks, are mesmerising experiences. Dara Shukoh’s library, Tel- a lake, palace buildings, Delhi Walks, etc. offer per- egraph Memorial and re- dungeons and a secret fectly tailored walking and Lodhi Garden mains of the British magazine. escape route. Guests can rickshaw tours for tourists who Lodhi Garden is Delhi's Guests gather at the Nichol- explore this walk of 2 km in hope to explore the city at the street with ith pools at major most beautiful and popular son Cemetery and take this about three hours. their own pace. intersections that would reflect park. Here, monuments are moonlight. Today, the stream located amidst a landscaped is gone and Chandni Chowk is garden. It has the royal tombs an extremely busy road. There of medieval rulers of Delhi are shops, schools, residences, - Muhammad Shah Sayyid places of worship, both old and and Sikander Lodi; a gateway new, along the road. Guests called with an meet at Sri Digambar Jain Lal exquisitely decorated mosque Mandir, opposite . This - ; a 16th century heritage walk of 1.5 km takes bridge and a couple of monu-

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 78 03-11-2017 12:28:17 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 79 03-11-2017 12:28:24 80 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 STATES The third edition of Jal Mahotsav, a festival of Activities galore at adventure tourism in central India, is being held from October 15, 2017 to January 2, 2018 at Hanuwantiya, District Khandwa in Madhya Pradesh.

TT BUREAU gazing, all terrain vehicle Hot air ballooning, land para rides etc. There are multiple sailing and para motors are et up in the lap of water sports activities also available for those who wish Hanuwantiya Island available to suit the travellers. to indulge in air activities besides the pristine Take motor boat rides, speed while for the nature lovers, S waters of Indira Sa- boat rides, banana rides, the guests can experience an gar Dam, the picturesque short cruises or indulge in wa- exotic island stay which is ac- escapade here comple- ter zorbing, water para sailing cessible from Hanuwantiya by ments the joy that lies in the and jet ski at Hanuwantiya. boat in 45 minutes. spirit of adventure.

Flying above the spar- kling waters or speeding through it, India’s one of its kind water festival – Jal Ma- hotsav, is full of land, water and air adventure activities. This 80-day long adven- ture carnival, will be a treat for all those who want to seek adventure.

The festival also rep- resents the culture of Mad- hya Pradesh - a culture that stands for rich skill set of its artisans, rich heritage and not to miss out, sumptuous Connectivity cuisine. This quiet, secluded  'LVWDQFHRI+DQXZDQ- place will be buzzing with WL\DWRXULVWFRPSOH[LQ activities for full month long .KDQGZDGLVWULFWLV when it will transform into NPIURP,QGRUH,WLV a tented city to host the NPIURP0DKHVKZDU guests from India and km from Omkareshwar abroad. Cultural extravagan- DQGNPIURP za every day, after sun down .KDQGZD%\GLIIHUHQW routes from Bhopal, including the New Year GLVWDQFHRI+DQXPDQWL\D party will be something you LVWRNP will cherish. Craft bazaar, food bazaar, cycle rides One can travel to Bhopal and many more recreation- E\6KDWDEGL([SUHVV and from there hop on al activities are waiting to a bus or private car for be explored. +DQXZDQWL\DRUWDNH ,QWHUFLW\([SUHVVWUDLQWR Guests can choose from Indore and then take a a number of land activities bus. MP tourism can also like zip lining, tug of war, vol- help avail a car to leyball, paint ball, archery, +DQXZDQWL\DDVZHOO bull cart ride, kite flying, club Flight options to Indore house, wall climbing, star DUHDOZD\VDYDLODEOH

0DJQLÀFHQWMP The festival represents the FXOWXUHRI0DGK\D3UDGHVK - a culture that stands for rich skill set of its artisans, rich heritage and not to miss out, its sumptuous cuisine

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 80 03-11-2017 12:28:57 OPPORTUNITY NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 81

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 81 03-11-2017 12:28:59 ASSOCIATIONTALK ADTOI launch theme for convention The Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI) will host its 8th NOVEMBER 2017 Annual Convention-cum-exhibition at Novotel, Varun Beach, Promote Iceland roadshow Ahmedabad 1 from November 17-18 and have decided on the theme for the same. Promote Iceland roadshow Delhi NCR 3

South Australia roadshow Bengaluru TT BUREAU Khanna further informed that the convention will ad- 7RXULVP(YHQWV4XHHQVODQGZRUNVKRS Kolkata he theme of ADTOI con- dress key industry issues Tvention this year is ‘Do- like GST and its impact on WTM Londonmestic Tourism: Explore India domestic tourism; threat of - One Country, Many Worlds,’ online travel agents to the South Australia roadshow Mumbaiunder which the association small and medium busi- South Australia roadshow Delhi NCR  will explore various facets of its nesses and will also deliber- convention venue - Visakhap- ate on the ways the central -XPHLUDK*URXSRI+RWHOVURDGVKRZ Mumbaiatnam. P P Khanna, Presi- government, state govern- dent, ADTOI, says, “We are ment and private players can Scandinavian Tourism board roadshow Delhi NCR expecting over 300 delegates work in collaboration to im- P P Khanna Rajat Sawhney President Vice President and Convention from across India. Through prove tourist infrastructure in ADTOI Chairman, ADTOI Scandinavian Tourism board roadshow Chennaithis convention, we hope to the country. Andhra Pradesh showcase the world-class fa- Tourism Authority is the state Scandinavian Tourism board roadshow Mumbai 16 cilities in Andhra Pradesh and partner for the Convention not have a significant pres- nam has been perceived as -XPHLUDK*URXSRI+RWHOVURDGVKRZ Delhi NCR 16 its vast potential for domestic while the association is also ence in South India. With this a business destination but tourism. The ratio of domestic seeking support from other convention, we hope to leave we want to showcase it as a Swiss Tourism roadshow Mumbaitravel in America, which has state tourism boards like an imprint in various parts of leisure spot. The city is bless- a population less than India, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, South India which will also ed with natural beauty, hill ADTOI Convention Visakhapatnam  is 1:6 which means that one Kerala, West Bengal, Odi- benefit our members from the ranges, pristine beaches and person travels six times within sha, Jammu and Kashmir region. We also plan to start lush, natural valleys. Some Cambodia Travel Mart Cambodia  America in a year. The same and Telangana. a state chapter in Andhra of the interesting destina- Swiss Tourism roadshow Ahmedabad ratio in India, the most popu- Pradesh soon.” Commenting tions of tourist interest are the lous country in the world, is Rajat Sawhney, Vice on the choice of Vizag as the Araku Valley, Borra Caves, Swiss Tourism roadshow Chennaionly 1:3. This shows that President and Convention convention venue, Sawhney Hill, RamaKrishna the potential of domestic travel Chairman, ADTOI, adds, “We elaborates, “Our purpose is Beach, Submarine Museum Dubai Leisure roadshow Delhi NCR in India is huge, and needs to realised that despite being a to offer a new destination to and the Dolphin’s Nose to be leveraged.” national association, we did the members. Visakhapat- name a few.” Swiss Tourism roadshow Delhi NCR

Dubai Leisure roadshow Pune Spanish Travel Show Bengaluru ATOAI takes Kerala on an adventure Travel East Kolkata  th Spanish Travel Show Mumbai The 13 Annual Convention of Adventure Tour Operators Association

Dubai Leisure roadshow Ahmedabad of India (ATOAI) held in Kumarakom, Kerala, was attended by over 400

IITM Pune  delegates from 16 states. Around 50 exhibitors showcased their products.

Dubai Leisure roadshow Mumbai TT BUREAU standing risk and managing “A sustainable, responsible, ,QGLD+RVSLWDOLW\$ZDUGV Delhi NCR outcomes; getting practical eco-friendly world is increas- India MICE Awards Delhi NCR he ADTOI Convention at with adventure insurance; ingly gravitating towards TKerala received an excel- practical application in ad- the offerings of this genre 7RXULVP(YHQWV4XHHQVODQG Kochilent response from the partici- venture travel operations whose core is now being pants, informs Tejbir Singh and how the industry players defined as being in a natural 7RXULVP(YHQWV4XHHQVODQG Coimbatore 30 Anand, Vice President, can benefit from introducing environment, learning and ATOAI. He elaborates, “With systems, processes and au- meaningful experiences. &KHQJGX,QWHUQDWLRQDO7RXULVP([SR &,7(  China 'HF each year, the ATOAI con- tomation in their business. The new adventure travel- ventions have been getting ler is seeking transforma- better. We moved away from Anand feels that Kerala tion, expanded worldview, Tejbir Singh Anand DECEMBER 2017 the regular format of just busi- Vice President has been at the forefront of nature and discovery, men- ness sessions. Our conven- ATOAI Indian tourism and is now tal health, learning, con- IITM Hyderabad 1-3 tions now offer real time ac- attempting to brand itself as nections, fun and thrill, Travel Business Show New Delhi tivities and experiences along :LWKDURXQG a great destination which of- better physical health and with knowledge sessions. It is fers adventure and active ex- unique experiences.” ,QWHUQDWLRQDO/X[XU\7UDYHO0DUW ,/70  Francebased on a three-night four- delegates experiencing periences too. “With around Bahrain Tourism roadshow Mumbai 6 day format with maximum .HUDODRQWKHDFWLYH 400 delegates experiencing Further, in the field of deliberations. It has deeper Kerala on the active side, it adventure tourism, products ,QGLD7UDYHO$ZDUGV 1RUWK  New Delhi impact on all delegates to go side, it has made an has already made an impact are being created across back with hands-on experi- and the trade has gone back the length and breadth of ence to sell the destination impact and the trade after witnessing the potential the country, beyond the JANUARY 2018 and product accurately to has gone back after of active journeys in Kerala. Himalayas. Every destina- their clients.” Kerala, after realising the tion is curating and creating IITM Kochi 11-13 witnessing the potential potential of adventure tour- its own adventure products. GPS Nagpur  The theme of the con- ism, has already sanctioned Anand says, “New adventure vention - Emerging Path- RIDFWLYHMRXUQH\V a lot of funds for the pro- products and newer regions ),785 Madrid, Spain  ways - resonated through motion and development of offering adventure activi- OTM Mumbai  the business sessions and tential to break profit barriers adventure travel in the state,” ties are populating the map. the destination that was and grow business through adds Anand. These are very interesting 'XVLW,QWHUQDWLRQDO,QGLD2IÀFHURDGVKRZ Mumbai chosen for the convention. identifying and tapping into times for our industry. These SATTE Delhi  Anand points out that the previously untapped mar- Identifying the trend in new opportunities also come business sessions encour- kets. The sessions also travel business, Anand as- with new sets of challenges, 'XVLW,QWHUQDWLRQDO,QGLD2IÀFHURDGVKRZ Bengaluru 30 aged stakeholders to create dwelled upon untapped serts that adventure travel is like safety and sustainability, 7RXULVP(YHQWV4XHHQVODQG Chennai 30 partnerships and engage opportunities and out-of- now redefining travel in gen- skilled manpower and right 7RXULVP(YHQWV4XHHQVODQG Bengaluru 31 with seemingly non related the-box ideas from the best eral. This segment, which regulatory environment, brands in the apparel, media in the business; acquiring was once niche, has not only educating and develop- and communications sectors practical knowledge about become mainstream, but is ing the right perspective for For more information, contact us at: [email protected] etc. which may have the po- digital marketing; under- now leading it. He explains, the fraternity.”

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 82 03-11-2017 12:29:00 CLIPBOARD NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 TRAVTALK 83

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 83 03-11-2017 12:29:02 84 TRAVTALK NOVEMBER 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2017 MOVEMENTS World Travel & Tourism Council Vistara The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace London Gurugram Hyderabad 7KH :RUOG 7UDYHO  7RXULVP &RXQFLO :77&  KDV DQQRXQFHG WKH Vistara has appointed Leslie Thng DV LWV &KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2IÀFHU Abhirath Sah has been elevated to the position of Director of Sales election of Christopherer J. Nassetta3UHVLGHQWDQG&(2RI+LOWRQ3UHVLGHQWDQG&(2RI+LOWRQ HIIHFWLYH 2FWREHU   +H VXFFHHGV 3KHH 7HLN

WelcomHeritage Hotels Lords Hotels & Resorts Radisson Blu Atria New Delhi Porbandar Bengaluru Sanjeev K Nayar*HQHUDO0DQDJHU:HOFRP+HULWDJHLVRYHUVHHLQJ Lords Eco Inn,Inn, Porbandar has appointed Manish Kumar as its Radisson Blu Atria, Bengaluru has appointed Gaurav Taneja WKHVDOHVDQGPDUNHWLQJIXQFWLRQVDORQJZLWKGHYHORSPHQW1D\DU 22SHUDWLRQV0DQDJHU3ULRUWRMRLQLQJ/RUGV+RWHOVDQG5HVRUWVSHUDWLRQV0DQDJHU3ULRUWRMRLQLQJ/RUGV KH DV LWV QHZ *HQHUDO 0DQDJHU+H FRPHV ZLWK PRUH WKDQ  \HDUV ZLWK PRUH WKDQ  \HDUV RI LQGXVWU\ sservederved as the Director of Operations RI LQGXVWU\ H[SHULHQFH ,Q KLV FXUUHQW experience has been with the ITC ZLZLWKWK0 0RKDPPDGRKDP 2PDU %LQ +DLGHU role, Taneja will continue to lead the +RWHOV:HOFRP+HULWDJH EUDQG IRU ++ROGLQJROGLQJ *URXS*U 36& *URXS RI formulation and implementation WKHODVW\HDUV:HOFRP+HULWDJHLV ++RWHOV+HFRPHVZLWKRYHU\HDUVRWHOV+HF of strategies to enhance guest the joint venture between ITC Ltd. RRILQGXVWU\H[SHULHQFHLQIURQWRIÀFHILQGXVWU\H H[SHULHQFHDQGRSHUDWLRQDOHIÀFLHQF\ DQG -RGKDQD +HULWDJH ZRUNLQJ management,managemen general operations ZLWKLQWKHKRWHODQGPRVWLPSRUWDQWO\ towards supporting and assisting the DQGDQG UHYHUHYHQXHQ PDQDJHPHQW +H building and inspiring the team to restorations of heritage properties. KDV ZRUNHGZRUNH ZLWK PDQ\ UHSXWHG greater perfection. Prior to joining 7KH EUDQG KDV LQ LWV NLWW\ VRPH KRVSLWDOLW\ H HVWDEOLVKPHQWV LQFOXGLQJ Radisson Blu Atria, he worked RI WKH ÀQHVW KHULWDJH SURSHUWLHV GGrandrand MillenMillennium, Dubai; Sheraton with several leading brands in the LQWKHFRXQWU\ ++RWHOV'XEDL$U\DQD+RWHOV6KDUMDKRWHOV'XEDL FRXQWU\ VXFK DV 1RYRWHO 0XPEDL 8$(8$(/RQG /RQGRQ &URZQ +RWHO 'XEDL -XKX%HDFK2EHURL*URXSRI+RWHOV $VWRULD$VWRULD + +RWHO DQG $PEDVVDGRU +LOWRQ 7RZHUV 0XPEDL DQG +RWHO'XEDL+RWHO'X Renaissance Mumbai.

Etihad Aviation Group The Suryaa Dubai New Delhi The Chairman of Etihad Aviation Group, Mohamed Mubarak Fadhel 7KH6XU\DD1HZ'HOKLKDVDSSRLQWHGChetan Kapoor as Director of Hema DhokeKDVEHHQDSSRLQWHGDV'LUHFWRURI6DOHVDW7KH6XU\DD $O0D]URXHLFRQÀUPHGWKHDSSRLQWPHQWRIFRQÀUPHGWKHDSSRLQWPHQWRITony Douglas as Group 6DOHV 0,&(  ,Q KLV FXUUHQW UROH .DSRRU ZLOO EH LQ FKDUJH RI WKH New Delhi. She brings along an operational and sales background &(2 ZKRZ ZLOOLOO MRLQ WKH FRPSDQ\ LQ -DQXDU\ sales department with various verticals in all E\YLUWXHRIKDYLQJZRUNHGZLWKEUDQGVKDYLQJZRUNHGZLWKEUDQGV 'RXJODVMRLQV(WLKDGIURPWKH8QLWHGODVMRLQV(WLKDGIURPWKH8QLWHG 0,&(WUDYHOWUDGHDQGLQERXQGJURXSV+H OLNH7DM*URXSRI+RWHOV$FFRU+RWHOVSRI+RWHOV$FFRU+RWHOV .LQJGRP·V0LQLVWU\RI'HIHQFHZKHUHKH0LQLVWU\RI'HIHQFHZKHUHKH KDVDVWURQJKRVSLWDOLW\H[SHULHQFHZLWK DQG &DUOVRQQ 5H]LGRU+HU \HDU has served as CCEO.EO. As GGrouproup CCEO,EO, hhee DFDUHHUVSDQQLQJRYHU\HDUVGXULQJ experience includes opopeningening will work withth thethe BBoardoard anandd lleadershipeadership which he has been associated with hotels, headingading sales and team to expandand anandd iimplementmplement a ranrangege VHYHUDO SURPLQHQW KRVSLWDOLW\ EUDQGV marketing, andand ensuring highhigh of strategic initiatives to positionposition Etihad such as Le Méridien, Taj Palace, The UHYHQXHVDQGSURÀWGSURÀW IRUVXVWDLQHGVXFFHVVLQDQLQFUHDVLQJO\GVXFFHVVLQDQLQFUHDVLQJO\ 2EHURL 7KH 5R\DO 3OD]D +RWHO &URZQH competitive reregionalgional and globalglobal aviation 3OD]D(URV+RWHODQG+LOWRQ-DQDNSXUL market. The divisional CCEOsEOs will reportreport GLUHFWO\WR'RXJODVLQFOXGLQJ3HWHURXJODVLQFOXGLQJ3HWHU Baumgartner,er, CEOCEO of Etihad $LUZD\V

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TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 84 03-11-2017 12:29:10 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 85 03-11-2017 12:29:11 India tourism fest takes centre stage In a span of just 20 days, Paryatan Parv or The Great Indian Tourism Festival envisaged a greater sense of national pride amongst the masses. Through this initiative, the Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with key ministries, celebrated all that makes up the country’s allure to the global market.

NIKHIL ANAND

n line with the vision of Prime Minister INarendra Modi, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, undertook the big- gest nationwide initiative from October 5-25, 2017, termed ‘Paryatan Parv’, to foster the principle of ‘Tourism for All’ whilst celebrating India, in all its colours, cultures and magnanimity.

Marked with grandeur and celebra- tory activities across the country, Parya- tan Parv has made great inroads into .-$OSKRQVDORQJZLWKWKHIRUPHU7RXULVP0LQLVWHU'U0DKHVK6KDUPDOLJKWWKHODPSDWWKHLQDXJXUDWLRQ ensuring a swifter, steeper rise of the RIWKH´3DU\DWDQ3DUYµ5DVKPL9HUPD UGIURPOHIW 6HFUHWDU\7RXULVPLVDOVRVHHQKHUH country’s tourism sector. Inaugurated at Humayun’s Tomb on October 5 by dance and culture, and to cultivate self- Music shows and performances Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State discovery and pride amongst the people on weekends near monuments (Independent Charge) for Culture and towards our great country.” Another key was another new element added by Minister of State for Environment, For- component of the Parv was the inaugu- this initiative, which the ministry plans to take to the next level by conducting such shows on weekdays as well in times to come.

Alphons further added, “We are proud to have successfully executed such an initiative in a short time and to have achieved overwhelming turnouts at all events under the Paryatan Parv banner. We hope to continue these cel- ebrations every year and endeavour to have more such festivals throughout the country.” In wake of the growing realisa- tion and chorus for tourism to become the key driver of the Indian economy 7KH8QLRQ+RPH0LQLVWHU5DMQDWK6LQJKSOD\VWKHGUXPGXULQJWKH2SHQLQJ&HUHPRQ\RI*UDQG)LQDOHRI in the near future, this initiative by the 3DU\DWDQ3DUYLQ1HZ'HOKLDV.-$OSKRQVDQG6XPDQ%LOODFKHHUKLPRQ Ministry of Tourism ensured that the est & Climate Change, the Parv culmi- ration of the ‘Adopt a Heritage’ campaign spotlight was given to the country’s nated with a three-day-long grand finale wherein the private sector will be handed myriad offerings as a destination, not at New Delhi from October 23-25, which the charge of taking care of civic amenities just to the domestic traveller but also to included performances by different state in and around our heritage monuments. the global traveller. troops and craft and food fairs from dif- ferent regions across India. The three chief components of the Parv were ‘Dekho Apna Desh’, ‘Tourism for All’ and Cherishing India in all its glory and grandeur ‘Tourism and Governance’, all of which The main goal of this initiative was to encourage Indi- equally propagated a holistic and robust ans to see India, and to propagate the same we conducted industry with greater contribution to the campaigns, events, showcased the various sites on social GDP of India. media and gave a traveller’s perspective of the country. In Looking back at the first-of-its-kind addition to the cultural and traditional events, we also con- initiative, K.J. Alphons, Minister of State ducted sensitisation programmes to drive skill development, (Independent Charge) Tourism, Govern- governance, innovation and to give a fillip to tourism into ment of India, said, “We had over 1100 India including that in J&K and the North East. With the help events spread across the country that saw of our 18 key sister ministries, including Ministry of Rural tremendous participation from schools, Development, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways and colleges, institutions and every citizen of Ministry of DONER, etc., we managed to turn India into a land of celebrations. the country across all states and union ter- Suman Billa ritories. Our aim was to showcase and cel- Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India ebrate India – its culture, traditions, music,

TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 86 03-11-2017 12:29:14 TT_November-1st-WTM-2017.indd 87 03-11-2017 12:29:16 Postal Reg. No.: DL(ND)-11/6044/2015-16-17; WPP No.: U(C)-178/2015-17 for posting on 1st-2nd and 16th-17th of the same month at G.P.O. New Delhi - 110001, RNI No.: 53492/1991 Date of Publication: 30-10-2017

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