Scan & e-Tourist visatillMarch31,2022for thefirst500,000applicants. Sitharamangrateful for toFinanceMinisterNirmala themuch-awaited free reliefdeclaring ofOfficials oftheMinistry andtrade associationheadsareallpraisesTourism and Secretary, ofTourism Ministry Singh Arvind to getthemselvesregistered. tour operatorsonly, weadvisemorestakeholdersintheindustry the reliefmeasureshavebeenannouncedforMOT-recognised world, andhencethesemeasuresarewelcomebyus.Since pandemicinIndiaandacrossthe badly hitbytheCOVID-19 time likethis. isoneofthesectorsthathasbeen needed ata thatthetourismindustry is thekindofsupport Vol. XXXIIIIssue13; July 1 that have closed down since that havecloseddown since estimated number of sharing somedataonthe week in2019.That said, was 60% of the comparable defined markets,which level (43.2%)amongSTR highestoccupancy country’s ing 30May, Mumbaisawthe May. Duringtheweekend 21.5% for the week ending 30 31%, andmorerecently, just fellto cupancy inthecountry 2019. ByApril,however, oc level wasroughly73%of asthemonthly ward recovery looked tobesolidprogress (53.9%),which in February I Relief measuresbyFMvital 20,000+ rooms shut down 20,000+ roomsshutdown Hazel Jain ddppl.com

Share a pandemic high a pandemichigh cupancy reached ndia’s monthly oc tourism andhospitalitysectors,fora Finance onreliefmeasuresforthe of in discussionwiththeMinistry Sitharaman.WeNirmala havebeen recently madebyFinanceMinister free-visa announcementthatwere welcome thereliefmeasuresand promote inboundtraveltoIndia.This of the tourism sector and will ment, asitwillhelpintherevival long time.We welcome the announce st fortnight i­­ fortnight

We, at the Ministry ofTourism,We, attheMinistry - - - -

Goa needsimagerebuilding Being futureready iscrucial the pandemic.” rarily closedinIndia dueto ties (20,067 rooms) tempo presently shows270proper closures. However, ourdata possibilities andpermanent not commentonthefuture Central Asia,says,“We can ment managerforSouthand STR’s businessdevelop COVID hitus, South andCentralAsia,STR Business DevelopmentManager Vidhi Godiawala ssue 2021 Vidhi Godiawala

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of the government. of thegovernment. recognised, sothatyoucanbebenefittedbyanyoftheschemes thatpleaseget we alsowanttosendamessagetheindustry has pickedup,numberofcasesaregoingdown.Throughthis, whole wordthatIndiaisgettingreadytoopen,thevaccinationdrive plied for, willbeagamechanger. Itsendsapositivesignaltothe ADG, Ministry ofTourismADG, Ministry Brar Rupinder Ministry officials including Ar Ministry yogawith Culture, performing ter ofState(I/C)for Tourism & by Day of Yoga followed was run, Modi’s addressonInternational cast ofPrime MinisterNarendra inDelhi,wherealivetele Fort programme commencedatRed tions acrossIndia.Theday-long celebrations at75heritageloca DayofYoga,International with to commemoratetheseventh activities thatithadorganised M in aCOVID-riddled andpost-pandemicworld. DayInternational of Yoga oftheIndianheritage to lighttheimportance aimedtobring The slew of ofactivitiesorganised by Ministry Tourism to celebrate the seventh ...... Nisha Verma ‘Yoga: Prahlad SinghPatel

A DDPPUBLICATION 09 05 cluded a slew of cluded aslewof (MOT) recentlycon ofTourisministry

It is also good that the recognised for touristguidesandtouroperators. industry. We welcomethefinancialhelp the and takingupissuesconcerning relief measuresforthetourismsector ism Ministerforannouncementof , FinanceMinisterandTour 500,000 e-Tourist visasthatwillbeap being announcedfreeforthefirst ofvisa thathascomeinterms port Thesup entities arebeingsupported. Valley awaits resurgence Hybrid weddings intheoffing? , Minis

I wouldliketothankthePrime - - - - - Ourgreatestheritage’ world isgettingthem-Yoga App, has alsoannounced thatthe est heritage.ThePrime Minister Patel said,“Yoga isourgreat Speaking ontheoccasion, Mahotsav’ campaign. ofthe‘Azadi part forms kaAmrit An IndianHeritage’drivethat Independence underthe‘Yoga, to commemorate75yearsof tutions/bodies oftheMinistry of all insti active participation tural heritagelocationswiththe organised ateachofthe75cul werealso the eventatRed Fort ism. Programmes similarto and Rupinder Brar, ADG-Tour -Tourismvind Singh,Secretary Contd onpage6

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CEO, AkbarHolidays Benazir Nazar safest solution.We alsodoweddingsandhavedoneacoupleofthem easing oftravelbans.Thatisyettobeseenandwehopeforthebest, andbusyyearend,subjectto toafruitful ting, Iamlookingforward RT-PCR testsremains. Withthenumberofenquirieswehavebeenget and allow for . Butwillitwork? vote becausethey safeguard one’s health Vaccinations aregettingthepopularity and LakeComo. Destinations includePhuket,Dubai,Istanbul,Bahrain,Alula,Bahamas, ries that we wouldhaveideallyreceivedsignificantly gone down. ofthewordandinIndia.But,yes,numberinqui in differentparts Pages : 24 live a healthy and happier life.” live ahealthyandhappier life.” all thepeopleofthis worldto languages. ThisApp willhelp mon yogaprotocol,inseveral of yogatrainingbasedoncom which willprovidemanyvideos .... Minister ofState(I/C)forTourism &Culture Prahlad SinghPatel A hopeinvaccines 13 12 TravTalkIndia.com

restrictions between countries and within restrictions betweencountries and within prolonged periodsoflockdownandtravel the they wouldwanttojusttakeoffafter missed theirchildren’sholidaysandseems keentotravelnow. are very Everyone’s got boththeirdosesofvaccination.They domestic holidaysfromtravellerswhohave aswell enquiries forbothinternational strictions, and the requirement of negative strictions, andtherequirementofnegative flights not being operational, interstate re aswell.Buttherealityof the country

We havebeen receiving alotof - binar, theMinistersaidthat success. Speaking at thewe this incredibleinitiativeagreat ofYoga and making importance spreading awarenessaboutthe and allitsorganisationsin ofCulture played byMinistry He alsoappreciatedtherole the globe. the well-beingofpeopleacross pandemic and is contributing to that yogahashelpedduringthe Sri Ravi Shankar. Patel said Sri Patel alongwithGurudev of life’,whichwasgracedby a webinartitled‘Yoga: The way Later thatday, MOTorganised Contd onpage11 Contd onpage8 ` 20/-

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BULLETIN Digital marketing is key Having conducted more than 100 virtual sessions with the trade across India so far, Indiatourism has not only been encouraging them to register with MOT but also advocating digital marketing as the means to promote Incredible India – with an MDA of `50,000.

Hazel Jain at `50,000 per year. Sharing ism continues to be an impor- some of the highlights of this tant contributor to the tourism ndiatourism has been programme’s benefits, Dhat- sector providing much needed doing an ‘incredible’ tareyan says, “This is a stamp resilience. Focusing on domes- Ijob in reaching out to of standard by the Government tic tourism potential, encourag- the travel trade since the pan- of India. It is a big marketing ing fellow countrymen to explore demic hit us. The messaging tool as well and lends credibil- their own country, taking a has been consistent – register ity to the service provider. We much-needed break within their with the Ministry of Tourism have received many queries own borders will be a winning and take advantage of its MDA Venkatesan Dhattareyan from foreign tour operators and strategy for India as the country Regional Director scheme and promote India do- Indiatourism Mumbai, MOT eases lockdown. mestically as well as internation- ally. Not missing a single beat Roping in outbound agents is Venkatesan Dhattareyan, those in rural areas. Thirdly, The main More importantly, Indiatourism Regional Director, Indiatour- the Market Development Assis- has also conducted a session ism Mumbai - Incredible India, tance (MDA) scheme has been agenda is to with the Outbound Tour Op- Ministry of Tourism. Whether expanded in a big way since erators Association of India it is addressing the various December 2020. We have so far make it simpler (OTOAI) which Dhattar- travel trade association mem- conducted more than 100 virtual and easier for eyan says is quite historic. bers over multiple webinars sessions across India.” or conducting its own virtual service providers “They traditionally promote desti- sessions for one and all, he `50,000 MDA for digital nations outside of India. But they has been active consistently. marketing: MDA was expanded have now come forward to learn not only for attending trade those from other states in India about India. They will need prod- He says, “The main agenda is to shows but also conferences, asking if a particular agency is uct-specific destination informa- inform all travel agents and tour conventions and roadshows. reliable or not. We go back and tion from experts – so that they operators of the revised guide- Another major thing which was check our database and give can also understand the potential lines of the MOT to make it sim- revised is extending support a go-ahead if they are in our of Chhattisgarh or Jharkhand. It pler and easier for the service for online marketing. This how- database. This is where this gives even the outbound tour op- providers. Secondly, this is also ever does not include building recognition also helps. Agen- erators a chance to learn some- linked to the online IITF certifica- websites but paid ads on social cies also automatically get a thing new. This is another avenue tion programme for tour guides. media since digital marketing is listing in the MOT website.” that we are trying to explore – out- This is especially beneficial for an effective mode of promotion He added that domestic tour- bound operators,” he says. GUESTCOLUMN A safer, future-ready ecosystem Vinay Malhotra, Regional Group COO – South Asia, Middle East & North Africa and VIEWPOINT Americas, VFS Global, says that in essence, the future of visa processing now rests with how the enablers are able to best integrate the dire need for safety to a new, disrupted journey.

The day is here! lobalisation brought and data prowess and opera- with it game-chang- tional excellence. They say adversity is a blessing in disguise. While Ging developments that the COVID-19 pandemic did hurt the travel & tourism set precedence for economic VFS Global has consistently industry to an extent that its repercussions are still growth across geographies. invested in solutions that have One such development was been ahead of their time, and being felt today, it has opened some never-thought- the boost to cross-border travel addressed every challenge of-before opportunities for the sector. In the past year for both recreational and busi- meticulously, ensuring that ev- and a half, though we did see many in the industry ness purposes that greatly in- ery customer’s first step into fluenced the economic growth the journey is frictionless. As struggle, we also saw some taking the reins in their of countries. The increase in first-movers and creators of the own hands and innovating to survive and then thrive. demand for international travel space, VFS Global changed the Hotels offered adaptive workation and led to the need for a stream- face of visa services by revolu- lined visa application process tionising operations at the back packages, travel agents helped each other out and that would ease the customer of personalisation and customi- Procurement process by pro- rising demand, VFS Global learnt the lesson of keeping funds aside for a rainy journey while applying for a sation for both clients as well viding travellers personalised launched a COVID-19 test day, and tourism stakeholders even got together to visa and help the relevant em- as customers. services such as Visa At Your appointment booking ser- bassies/consulates with the Doorstep (VAYD), Joint Visa vice in over 40 countries, in bear airline losses only to allow domestic traffic to growing application load. Visa Application Centres were Application Centres, self-up- partnership with government trickle in and business to resume. Had the pandemic designed along the theme of load of documents, personal accredited medical service not hit the industry, many lessons may have been left VFS Global, the world's largest customer-first, providing the providers, authorised to carry visa outsourcing and tech- necessary assistance and en- out tests as per local rules unlearnt, many shortcomings in dealing with other nology services specialist, couraging real-time resolution and regulations. stakeholders in the trade may have gone unchecked, launched its services in 2001 to feedback. Optional services The strategy and people may not have been able to fully utilise to provide this very process. were designed to help custom- More recently, VFS Global has Over the years, VFS Global has ers at every step, from fill- is to offer entered a strategic partnership their potential and that of their respective businesses. expanded and launched new ing their forms to end-to-end with Affinidi’s Unifier and Ac- Now, the Ministry of Tourism has come out with convenience at credify to address another draft national policies and strategic roadmaps for aspect of safe border reopen- every step of ing. The partnership enables medical & , , as well as the journey with travellers to seamlessly book the MICE sector. India, as a country, does possess their mandatory pre-departure the power of product, but lags behind in marketing, safety at the COVID-19 swab test and keep a copy of the swab’s results packaging and delivery. Our medical and wellness core of it online via VFS Global’s net- tourism products are world-renowned, and our rural work of accredited laborato- sector remains significantly untapped even though it ries. With Accredify’s tamper- assistance, eVisa solutions, proof HealthCert solution, the has more to offer than most other countries. MICE, IVR for helpline and chatbot traveller’s test results can be too, is slowly gaining traction in the international help desks, all aimed at im- used for verification purposes arena, and the government does seem to be turning proving efficiency, turnaround by relevant authorities. Unifier time and reducing scope for then enables airlines and im- a keen eye to the sector by developing state-of-the- services at the back of innova- personalised assistance in error. As the company charts migration authorities to digi- art infrastructure in key cities. Before proceeding to tive technology, building a digi- exclusive premium lounges. the road to bringing back the tally verify the authenticity of finalise the draft strategy document and to make the tised ecosystem for travel that These services saw demand promise in travel, the strategy the test results using a simple boasts of the highest levels of grow over the years. While is to reimagine the customer QR code scan and matching document more comprehensive, Ministry of Tourism safety and security. the pandemic pushed many journey and offer convenience the health credentials against has invited feedback, comments and suggestions. sub-sectors within travel to at every step of the journey the entry requirements of the This may well be the golden opportunity that the in- The 20-year journey instinctively invest in technol- with safety at the core of it. destination country. dustry was looking for, offering their inputs in policies The journey began with VFS ogy, not as an afterthought, for Global in 2001 signing its first VFS Global it was at the heart The future of visa that would shape the future of the industry. The pan- client government, the US of their business since incep- application services demic, too, serves as an experience that stakehold- Consulate in Mumbai, as an tion. The company’s depth of As borders reopen and travel ers must inculcate in their suggestions to the govern- outsourcing partner support- operations across geographies restrictions ease gradually, a ing their administrative tasks and the burgeoning number convenient and reliable pre- ment. After all, it strengthens the country’s disaster around visa applications. To- of travellers from across the departure COVID-19 testing management programme for tourists. With safety day, the organisation works globe enabled VFS Global to solution may become a cata- and hygiene being the norms of the new normal, with 63 governments globally, introduce innovations that lyst in the recovery process with operations spanning 144 were never thought possible of international travel. Testing Vinay Malhotra the time is ripe to make the most of an opportunity countries managed via 3400+ in a consular, government-to- all passengers for COVID-19 Regional Group COO – South Asia, Middle that would make India’s tourism policies and future Visa Application Centres; a consumer setup. VFS Global prior to departure at the coun- East & North Africa and Americas, VFS Global roadmap a force to reckon with. success trajectory that can be cut through the supply chain try of origin would be a critical (Views expressed by the author are his own. attributed to VFS Global’s tech lag and streamlined the Visa success factor. To meet this The publication may or may not subscribe to them.)

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Nisha Verma be respected. All opening will need cause of travel being stopped, an incredible destination to be we had to take stock of the caution, both from government as Brar reveals that MOT, at all visited,” she shares. situation unfolding globally as he second wave of well as travellers. MOT is putting its levels, is talking to in- well as in India, factoring in the pandemic came a lot of advisories and advocacy dustry stakeholders and try- Promotional drive when to get into a more ag- Tas another major jolt on social media handles that one ing to find a way forward. Claiming that the MOT was all gressive mode of promotion. to the travel business, agrees must travel without ignoring the set to launch the global media Currently, we are sticking to so- Rupinder Brar, adding that while protocols. Many places, particu- “The Honourable Minister of plan but had to put it on hold cial media platforms of Incred- it was a challenging time, the larly in the hill states of Himachal Tourism & Culture has met a lot ible India as well as MOT’s own government is getting prepared Pradesh and Uttarakhand, will get of sections of tourism and hos- handles to share information. on the vaccine front as well as Rupinder Brar many travellers as domestic tour- pitality in dealing with the pan- However, looking at how things making sure that travel restarts, Additional Director General, MOT ism will open first, like last year,” demic and finding ways in terms Our direct pan out globally as well as in albeit with protocols in place and she points out. of how to generate confidence in India, we will need a lot of being followed. restriction of no more than 650 potential travellers, what needs role continues discussion with the Minis- people being permitted. This Industry engagement to be done, what mechanisms try of Health and Ministry of Reopening of monuments makes sense since we cannot for- In light of the trickle-down ef- we can give and what kind of to be putting a Home Affairs, so that better From June 16, all centrally pro- get COVID, and protocols need to fect on smaller businesses be- outreach should India be creat- thrust on decisions are made in terms of tected monuments, sites and ing not only for domestic but right time for opening, and our museums under Archaeological for inbound travellers as well. regeneration campaign will be in sync with Survey of India (ASI) were opened SEIS: A matter of concern This kind of discussion, at the the same as far as inbound for tourists. Brar claims that the Reacting on the industry’s ongoing demand regarding the overdue minister’s level, as well as at the of demand is concerned. Our direct role reports from visitors have been payment of SEIS for FY 2019-2020, Brar claims that it is an active level of the officials, including continues to be putting a thrust on good. “We started getting reports subject and a matter of concern for MOT. “There is great concern at all the secretary and all of us, have regeneration of demand. If travel- of these monuments being already relevant levels of MOT regarding SEIS, and we understand that it will be seen a round of meetings plan- because of the onset of the lers are coming in and business visited by a number of people from of great support to the industry. Secretary, Tourism, is himself leading all ning the way forward in ensuring pandemic, Brar says, “News can operate and open again, then Day 1. However, at some places, the discussions with the concerned officials,” she says. that India opens with great reso- started trickling in about the new automatically a lot of issues get including the Taj Mahal, there’s a lute strength and also remains variants of COVID-19. Hence, addressed,” she asserts.

Visa, Thomas Cook (India), while launching the Thomas Cook India TravShield – Safe ‘Please start planning’ Travel Commitment, said, “To provide guidance to our Urging all corporates to start thinking ahead and planning all their MICE trips, Madhavan Menon, MICE corporates and build confidence that it is safe to Managing Director, Thomas Cook (India), predicts that we are likely to witness an acute shortage travel again, we have designed a of capacity initially due to sentiments of ‘revenge’ travel. three-pronged strategy that cov- ers personal, financial and men- tal safety. Our TravShield is a Hazel Jain are going to witness constraints “So how do we start planning for comprehensive safe travel of travel at that time. I believe that these trips? I would strongly rec- commitment designed with peaking at the Thomas we are going to enter that phase ommend that you start planning meticulous health and safety Cook India ‘Mission where flights are flying to capac- your trips around some of these STomorrow’ virtual event ity and seats are full. People are events. For instance, Dubai is dedicated to MICE travel, the wide open. It is leading the global company’s Managing Director, TravShield is Madhavan Menon, urged the in- dustry to plan for the future now. a safe travel He said, “What is likely to happen tober, and the T20 WC in Dubai in Rajeev Kale We are going President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, in the next 12-18 months: I think November. And I haven’t even got Visa, Thomas Cook (India) commitment there will be a huge amount of ac- to 2022 yet! My concern is that to witness designed to safe tivity starting with IPL 2 in Dubai the last quarter of 2021 and the in September, Expo 2022 in Oc- entire 2022 will see a rush – we shortage of to be normal – normal in terms of guard customers capacity. Travel availability of seats. We are going – Rajeev Kale Madhavan Menon to witness shortage of capacity What is TravShield? MD, Thomas Cook (India) is coming back initially. Travel is coming back. Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have announced a two-pronged – Madhavan Menon And the most heartening news is strategy: TravShield and First & Pay When You Return. all this speculation around health protocols to safe guard our TravShield is designed with meticulous health and safety protocols to going to go into revenge mode has been killed. They MICE customers, and encom- safeguard customers across Holidays, MICE and and since they couldn’t travel for two are now saying if you have a passes and enhances compa- encompasses and enhances the companies’ existing Assured Insured years. I can see domestic and in- charge back to normalcy. Europe government-issued registration nies’ existing Assured Insured Secured Travel Program. The health and safety Assured Program, in ternational travel bouncing back.” and the US will follow. Asia is that you are vaccinated will be Secured Travel Program.” He- partnership with Apollo Clinics, is inbuilt into TravShield. The Holiday also likely to open up by end of adequate,” he said. reiterated, “We want Thomas First & Pay When You Return scheme provides customers the flexibility Menon added that Thomas Cook the year. Please plan your trips. Cook to be the ‘Safest Travel of paying once they return from their holiday. India is focused on inducing travel What we are going to witness in Rajeev Kale, President & Coun- Partner’ when consumers start in the safest possible conditions. the next 18 months is not going try Head – Holidays, MICE, travelling again.” 6 TRAVTALK JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 QUICKBYTES

Arshdeep Anand to A strong, symbolic message lead Women’s Task Force of ATOAI Turnaround time for Contd from page 1 In my opinion, the most posi- I must thank the Hon’ble tive part in the recent announce- Prime Minister and the Finance travel bookings quicker this It’s a welcome move by the ment by Nir- Minister for the relief measures. time than 2020: Yatra.com Finance Minister to announce mala Sitharaman is the five lakh They say better late than never; I package or relief for the travel AP tourist sites reopen, tourist visas that will be given am happy to learn about the move agents and the tourism people, domestic roadshow free to FTAs. The other highlight to grant free visa to first five lakh especially the tourist guides, who planned is the ten lakhs that will be given tourists visiting India, which will are registered on the MOT web- in form of loans to travel agents. greatly help in reviving tourism. Travelport and Amazon site. However, I still feel that more But the underlining part is that If, somehow, we could not attract should have come for the tourism Web Services join hands Rajiv Mehra it will only be given to agents MP Bezbaruah five lakh tourists by 31 March, to digitally transform sector, which is really suffering a President, IATO who are registered with the MOT Secretary-General, HAI 2022, the scheme should be travel retailing huge cash flow crunch, seeing which is only 904 agents. This extended to 2023. Secondly, the low business and are not even ITB Asia 2021 will be an We are grateful for the relief will obviously not cover the ma- The FM's announcement on government should extend visas looking at any business coming to the tourism industry whenever all-virtual event, to be held jority of the travel trade. TAFI is free visas has a very strong sym- of the travellers who are already and reviving quickly. I think more visas are open, and we are grate- therefore writing to the FM to at on 25-29 Oct bolic message that we have the holding visa for India since the needs to be done; only 10% of ful to the Hon’ble Tourism Minis- least look at including all the IATA confidence to welcome visitors lockdown was imposed. Thirdly, IRCTC cancels first 17 stakeholders can benefit from this ter for supporting us. I am hopeful agents in this. The other part is and that tourism and hospitality the commencement of interna- scheduled departures of package as it includes only regis- e-Tourist visa will open soon and that the interest, although it is a is a strong pillar of post-COVID tional scheduled flights should Maharajas’ Express from tered agents/ tour operators. The have appealed to the PM that vi- sovereign guarantee and banks economic recovery strategy. We also be announced, so that the Oct 3 to Jan 23 industry in general, has not been sas for duration of 30 days be free should be able to give loans on sincerely hope that such mea- industry can prepare. helped. But, it’s a small light at the for all those who apply for visa till that, should be low. This is defi- sures will be logically followed by st FHRAI urges extension end of the tunnel. 31 March 2023. I thank the gov- nitely a positive step. measures to make the industry to implement FSSAI ernment for considering loan to recover and be ready to welcome license number the tour operators and guides, but tourists - measures like liquid- request that the government also Fairmont Jaipur ity support and exemption from consider giving one-time finan- statutory taxes. HAI would like to re-opens from 27 June cial grant to all recognised tour after months compliment the FM on this initia- operators which could be 50% of tive and look forward to some Switzerland lifts entry the wages paid by the tour opera- more pragmatic initiatives to cre- tors in 2019-20 and `2.5 lakh to restrictions for vaccinated ate jobs and livelihoods through a Subhash Goyal Indians under all visa each tourist guide recognised by rejuvenated tourism and hospital- President, Confederation of Tourism categories MOT/State Government as one ity industry. We will be there for a Professionals of India Jyoti Mayal time grant. Pradip Lulla President, TAAI Acting President and VP, TAFI committed role to be played. Inputs by TT Bureau Phuket Sandbox: A test for travel KD Singh, Founder & President, TravelBullz, in a message to travel trade partners, has said that the success of ‘Phuket Sandbox’ is part of a bigger effort to reopen Thailand for international tourists. The Phuket Sandbox initiative allows vaccinated foreign tourists to enter Phuket from July 1.

without causing any major The Phuket Government is work- Manas Dwivedi increase in COVID infections ing tirelessly to vaccinate at least or cases, it will serve as the 70 per cent of the Phuket com- lthough India and other foundation for the rest of the munity to create herd immunity, high-risk countries are plans to be implemented. in partnership with local tourist Aunlikely to be open organisations and bodies. Im- soon for tourists, KD Singh munisation will be given to tour- emphasises on the importance ism and hospitality companies, of the Phuket Sandbox as an im- guides, drivers, spas, salons, portant step in the re-opening of KD Singh It will serve as and everyone else connected Founder & President, TravelBullz Thailand to international tourists. the foundation with the tourism industry on “This is a constantly changing top priority. environment, and everyone we The good news is that properly for the rest of know in the Thailand tourism vaccinated tourists will not need TAT has also created a higher industry is doing everything to go through quarantine and the plans to be spec for the SHA Certificate, they can to ensure that Phuket there would be no minimum implemented called SHA PLUS. TravelBullz Sandbox is a success, paving night’s stay restrictions if they is an SHA-certified company the way for Thailand’s reopen- do not plan to visit other cities in and has started an awareness ing plan to continue on track. Thailand. Guests who wish to campaign regarding the re- travel to other cities will be man- fort by the government to reopen Over time, the tourism industry, opening of Thailand. “We have Possible reopening strategy by Thai government datorily required to first stay in Thailand as a tourist destina- THA (Thai Hotels Association), started a campaign on e-filers, Phuket for 14 to 15 days, after tion,” he elaborates. TAT (Tourism Authority of Thai- Facebook, WhatsApp and other July 1-Sept 30: Phuket Sandbox – No Quarantine Required plan which they are free to travel to land), Tourism Ministry, and social media to be able to bring Oct 1-Dec 31: 8 more provinces on No Quarantine Required plan, any place in Thailand as long as Pinning his hopes on a suc- other commercial and govern- FAQs and updated information including Chon Buri (Pattaya), Samui, Chiang Mai their RT-PCR test remains nega- cessful reopening, Singh shares mental stakeholders will col- to all our stakeholders and all Jan 1, 2022: All of Thailand to welcome international tourists tive before departing Phuket. The that there is eager anticipa- laborate to ensure Phuket sets TravelBullz partners. I would re- without quarantine success of Phuket's Sandbox is tion for Phuket Sandbox to go the benchmark and succeeds,” quest them to accept the link,” thought to be part of a bigger ef- well. “If everything goes well, he believes. Singh informs.

8 TRAVTALK JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 QUICKBYTES Korea enthrals Indian buyers The recently-concluded Korea Travel Expo saw buyers from across India having B2B meetings with over 15 suppliers from South Korea, including DMCs, RTOs and attractions. While many buyers appreciated the positive attitude of exhibitors from Korea, others are planning to travel to Korea as soon as borders open.

The Korea Travel Expo experi- Korea is a key partner for us. My experience was overall ence was good, and I thoroughly The destination offers significant fascinating as I have come to enjoyed it. I got a chance to meet opportunity for Indian consum- know about Korea in detail. The many old and new partners. It ers when borders reopen. The presentation, itinerary discus- was an informative and valuable Korea Travel Expo is hence an sion, information about MICE two days. The platform was easy invaluable initiative that offers us and leisure groups is very helpful to use and beautifully designed. I a networking platform with ac- to organise events. In this pan- loved the interactive map of South cess across key stakeholders demic, a virtual platform is the Korea, very interesting content, as of the Korean travel & tourism stage where people can interact Gaurish S Dharwadker Manoj Nair Sumit Churiwalla well as the quiz. We had excellent CEO, Travel Shop ecosystem – across destinations more often. The interactions meetings with all the partners, as and provinces, tourism boards, National Marketing Leader, FCM were fruitful. It will help to con- Director, Nimbus Tours & they provided valuable and help- attractions, transportation, hospi- vert meetings into real business The appointments were Korea Travel Expo was a great I really liked the virtual ex- ful information, which will help tality, etc. This is a powerful ex- once tourism opens. We are seamless. I enjoyed connecting forum to meet partners from perience at Korea Travel Expo. me incorporate in our travel pro- change platform. looking forward to it. with Korean suppliers with whom tourism boards to DMCs. I am It kept me engrossed for quite a grammes when borders open. we can work once the COVID situ- happy I could attend this forum while and I loved the games (ea- ation improves. Virtual platforms and catch up with key people gerly waiting for the results) and are here to stay. I am delighted that who keep the wheels of tourism other details it had to offer. It is all my meetings were successful, running in Korea. All my meetings one of the best platforms I have and the suppliers sounded eager were fruitful and it was great hav- used for an expo of this level. to work with Indian agents. Also, ing those conversations with the We could experience everything they were ready to share all re- partners based out of Korea, and by sitting in my office in Kolkata. quired material and guide us on it will materialise into something Best part was we didn't have to tourism aspects, and were happy beneficial for the destination, us log in to different Zoom links to to reply to some ‘silly’ questions. and the partners. Travel industry talk to different exhibitors. It was The supportive nature of Korean Suzanne Pereira people are a very resilient lot and Abin Bhattacharjee all in one place. Pradnya Naik suppliers conveyed their eager- SVP – Trade Relationships, these meetings confirm that while Head - FIT Products & Communications & Service Quality Senior Manager, MICE - International Contracting, Kesari Tours ness for the Indian market. Thomas Cook (India) we are down, we are not out. Operations, Zenith Hospitality Inputs by Nisha Verma A solution to stress Budget hotels will benefit

Contd from page 1 despite India being a developing big achievement for India, as the Price is the most important factor to 47% of consumers when selecting ac- country. Domestic tourism in the solution for all these problems is commodation, according to a poll by GlobalData. With less budget for travel ‘Yoga for Wellness’ slogan given country reached new heights as in India,” he shared. but a strong desire to escape, many will turn to budget providers. by the PM is being followed in Indians explored places within all programmes throughout the the country. Even at the onset of Tourism Secretary Singh nation. He further said that there also shared the point of view of TT Bureau Gardner continues, “The pan- will likely push travellers to is discussion around the world Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on demic has placed a consid- budget travel options, forgoing regarding post-COVID recovery. how to attract foreign tourists us Gardner, Associ- erable strain on travellers’ loyalty benefits in the process. “The permanent solution for or promote India at an interna- ate Travel and Tourism finances. Despite this, travel de- To counteract the shift towards post-COVID issues is in India, in tional level post the pandemic, GAnalyst at GlobalData, mand is still high, and many are budget alternatives, mid to the form of Yoga, Ayurveda and comments, “Budget op- looking to escape in desperate upper-scale hotels should focus Ayush,” he claimed. the pandemic, foreigners visiting erators will be well positioned need for a change of scenery. their efforts on price promo- India preferred to remain here in- to benefit from an increase in Travellers are more likely to tions. Offering additional dis- According to Patel, there are stead of going back to their own bargain-hunting travellers look- trade extras offered at mid to counts for loyalty programme three things that make India an country because they felt safer The permanent ing for the cheapest accom- upper-scale hotels for a more members, freebies, or free incredible nation and have im- here and trusted the ancient ways solution for modation possible. With many basic ‘pay for what you need’ upgrades could entice those proved its perception across of medicine in India,” he said. countries still only permitting the world. “Firstly, it was the post-COVID outbound travel to a hand- international recognition of Yoga Patel added that after the sec- ful of countries and domestic and the UN declaring 21st June ond wave, the situation remains issues is in India, holidays booming in the short as International Yoga Day and grim and all the ancient prac- in the form term, accommodation prices everyone embracing it with full tices in India are in the minds have risen. Travellers will be fervour. This took India’s stature of people. Quoting the PM, he of Yoga looking for a bargain among a service standard.” The same looking to make their stay more higher in the world. Secondly, said the journey from insanity sea of inflated rates.” GlobalData poll showed that comfortable despite a depleted when COVID-19 was causing or mental issues to charity can ‘prestige and loyalty offered’ travel budget. As travel begins mayhem across the world, it was be done through yoga. “UN be- by promoting India’s heritage GlobalData’s consumer sur- was the least important factor to return, post-pandemic travel- India which distributed essential lieves that yoga CDs should be & culture and niche products vey (Q1 2021) showed that when selecting a hotel. Many lers are likely to have reduced medicines for nations in need, made available to bring people with a special focus on the travellers are more price sensi- upscale hotels have invested in funds, and budget hotels will right from US to Brazil. This was out of depression and this is a Northeast region. tive than before the pandemic, developing a loyal follow- benefit. Price promotions and which is unsurprising given ing. However, the pandemic incentives could be a crucial that 87 per cent of global re- has caused a shift in travel- strategy for mid to upper-scale spondents expressed that they ler sentiment that could im- hotels to counteract this trend, Taj, renowned for its world-class customer service and standing at a brand value of were concerned about their pact this type of investment. however, travellers are more US$296 million, is now the world’s strongest hotel brand, with a Brand Strength Index personal financial position Gardner adds, “The financial likely to be influenced by price (BSI) score of 89.3 out of 100 and a corresponding AAA brand strength rating. during the pandemic. squeeze from the pandemic in the initial recovery period.” STATES JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 TRAVTALK 9 Goa needs image rebuilding After a surge in infection rates that debilitated tourism in Goa, two state tourism association presidents are urging the authorities to carefully plan out and conduct an image rebuilding exercise for the state so that it can restart tourism on a fresh note. The plan must be comprehensive, entailing everything from A to Z.

Hazel Jain ity sector will open fully only that Goa needs a change of to keep citizens and tour- after the positivity rate falls un- image. “We need to make it ists safe in Goa, ensuring all delegation from the der five per cent. The associa- a ‘safe’ destination at least tourism-related businesses Travel & Tourism tion has insisted that tourism by December 2021. After take only 50-75% of their ac- A Association of Goa has to be started at the earliest making it safe, we need to tual capacity for atleast six (TTAG) met Chief Minister with all protocols in place, and promote it as a ‘Safe’ destina- months, special quarantine Pramod Sawant and Tourism that tourists who are vaccinat- tion, ask tourists to book only centres for tourists, entry pro- Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar ed must be allowed entry into registered hotels so that ev- tocols into Goa till October, and recently. They had a two- the state freely. “We told the ery case can be tracked and no high-capacity events till pronged agenda: to request Nilesh Shah Serafino Cota government that the state traced, and ramp up our vac- March 2022. for relief for the state’s tour- President, TTAG President, Small & Medium Hotels Associations should be projected as a safe cination drive. Everything ism industry and to suggest an destination. The key to opening needs to be controlled – from The Goa CM has gone on re- image-building exercise. is vaccination. We can’t keep entry points to hotels. That is cord to say, “Most tourism ac- Everything the industry closed. The live- the only way safe tourism can tivities are closed in the state. Sharing details of this meeting, The livelihoods lihoods of lakhs of people start,” Cota adds. We can think of restarting it Nilesh Shah, President, TTAG, of people needs to be dependent on tourism are at only after first dose of vac- says, “Our team met the CM stake,” Shah said. Some of the points sug- cine has been administered to along with the Tourism Min- dependent on controlled, from gested by TTAG towards this everyone that means only after ister, Chairman GTDC, Chief entry points Meanwhile, Serafino Cota, include online and social 30th July. Third wave is being Secretary, Tourism Secretary, tourism are President, Small & Medium media campaigns showcas- spoken about. At present, we and Director Tourism of GTDC. at stake to hotels Hotels Associations, suggests ing all measures undertaken can't predict.” We have requested them to conduct image-rebuilding exercise for Goa to undo the fected the image of Goa as a gestions for both demands. The total value of the world’s top 50 most valuable hotel brands has declined by 33% negative publicity received by safe and secure destination.” (US$22.8 billion) as the sector negotiates fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. Leisure the state during the last two The association has submitted The government has informed & tourism brands have also taken a hit, and the cumulative brand value is down 40%. to three months which has af- a 10-point document with sug- TTAG that the state’s hospital- Reforms that can save aviation ‘We have run out of words to describe the state of Indian airlines,’ states CAPA India in its airline outlook for the financial year 2022. The company believes that if India is to achieve the vision of affordable connectivity as a critical enabler of economic transformation, the viability of the airline sector must receive the highest level of attention.

TT Bureau large pools of capital. Massive, ers have by and large closed sudden impact of COVID have perennial losses have created a their doors to airlines, even for CAPA India recommends reforms resulted in a high level of solven- APA India has repeat- debt trap which has resulted in restructuring purposes; and les- cy risk for most airlines which v Bring ATF under the GST framework with full input tax credit edly emphasised that most airlines having very limited sors will soon have no option could impact the entire industry, v Reduce customs excise and duty on ATF Cthe industry is standing means of recapitalisation. The but to start applying pressure including airports. This can- v Full refund of IGST on import of aircraft repairs on the edge of a cliff. This is true Government of India is providing on defaulting airlines, it believes. not continue, says CAPA India. v Extend airport tariff control period in AERA Act from 5 years to even for airlines with access to almost no direct support; lend- Simultaneously, the aviation sec- If we are to achieve the Prime 8 years Minister’s vision of affordable v Reduce regulatory costs connectivity as a critical enabler v Serious implementation of ‘Flexible Use of Airspace’ of economic transformation, v Hiving-off of ANS to ensure sufficient capital for investment the viability of the airline sector in capacity must receive the highest level v Introduce financial fitness and solvency tests for AOP issuance of attention and support from and renewal the Ministry of Civil Aviation and v Implement a refund protection scheme for consumers the entire industry. Reforms are v Remove all restrictions on commercial decisions needed to mend the core of In- v Measures to reduce financial stress specifically for airports which dia’s aviation sector, and CAPA have around 80% fixed costs, incurred huge losses in FY21 & India has some viable solutions FY22, and a capex commitment of USD 10.9 billion up its sleeve. CAPA expects that Indian airlines will lose a consoli- dated USD 4.1 billion in FY2022, tor is heading into a higher cost has chosen to pursue profitless similar to that in FY2021. This environment, while staff morale growth, resulting in chronic loss- will take total losses over two is declining. es for many years. Two major years to around $8 bn as a result airlines have failed in the last 10 of the two COVID waves. FSCs Lurching from crisis to crisis years leaving a trail of USD 7 bil- are expected to contribute $2.1 has become a familiar story lion of liabilities. Yet, nothing has bn of losses while LCCs would since 2004 because the industry changed. The twin waves and account for USD 2 billion. 10 TRAVTALK JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 MOT Aiding the trade is a priority Anil Oraw, Regional Director, Indiatourism North, believes that in the last 1.5 years, the travel patterns across the world have changed, with almost no travellers from overseas. Hence, on Ministry of Tourism’s advice, Indiatourism North has taken a few initiatives to facilitate better traffic.

Nisha Verma of their travel if they go on a Pradesh. Such exchange pro- Institute of Hotel Management with them, to ensure all protocols sales call within India, twice a grammes were organised by and Catering Technology, which are maintained and a positive im- nil Oraw shared that year. Under this, we will provide other Indiatourism offices too. comes under the MOT. Under age is created for the tourists and they are trying to focus the airfare, accommodation, All costs of these programmes the programme, for example instil confidence. “We have asked Aon domestic travellers, transportation expenditure, after students from J&K went to Tamil the tour operators to promote that who have great potential. “They submission of bills and papers on Nadu and Telangana students our drivers and guides are vac- are economically sound and have return by reimbursing the cost. came to Haryana. When Telan- cinated; the hotels they are going disposable income, and we not This policy has been modified We promote gana students visited Haryana to stay has its staff vaccinated only promote known destina- now, as it earlier covered agen- two roadshows were held in IHM and the rooms are thoroughly sa- Anil Oraw tions, but focus on lesser-known Regional Director, Indiatourism North cies approved by MOT. However, lesser-known Panipat, where students from nitised; so that potential visitors or unknown destinations, festi- now it is available to all tour op- both states displayed the cuisine, know that they are with some- vals and some adventure circuits erators or stakeholders approved or unknown dressed in traditional costumes, body safe. There also needs to be as well through our webinars,” he ners, which resulted in increas- by the state or UT, twice within destinations, performed different dances and an assurance that there is 24 hr said. He added that it is possible ing the tourist flow between the India across all states. In case cultural shows, so that they had medical support during the tour. for states to attract tourists by states,” he adds. they are travelling to Northeast festivals a complete heritage exchange. Such assurance is also given by offering them incentives. Another and Ladakh, they can avail the People from nearby areas and the tour operators to the clients, step they have taken, especially Working with the trade scheme thrice in a year.” and adventure parents of the students were also who get 100% surety they and during the pandemic, is to build Claiming that one of the key fo- circuits invited. Expenditure for these pro- their families are safe,” he added. the confidence of people. “This cus areas for them was to start Apart from that they also organ- grammes was also borne by us. has been done following the pro- supporting the travel trade and ised inter-state roadshows. “We The vision behind it was that the Also, he stressed that today tocols issued by MOT & MoHFW, any stakeholder approved by invited tour operators from one students could motivate parents people prefer booking after per- and instructions from Disaster the MOT, or by the state gov- region to other regions. Indiatour- were borne by the MOT,” he to go to Haryana or Telangana. sonal interaction with a physical Management. We ensure that ernments, Oraw said, “We are ism Delhi had organised a road- informed. They also organised Hence, it was indirect selling or instead of making these protocols are maintained supporting the tour operators show by inviting tour operators exchange programmes for stu- promotion,” he shared. online bookings. “This gives by the hotels and by tour opera- through the Marketing Develop- from Bihar and UP to Shimla, dents. “Under the ‘Ek Bharat 100% assurance and ensures tors. We also tried to connect the ment Assistance (MDA) scheme, where they did B2B meetings Shreshtha Bharat’ scheme, we With respect to the tour op- safety of the tourists and their tour operators in various man- by reimbursing 90% of the cost with tour operators of Himachal targeted the students of Indian erators, they had video meetings families,” he stressed. Nip the counterfeit threat in the bud! Vaccination security is the major new issue facing the travel industry, according to Adam Schrader, Director of Operations at travel risk intelligence company Riskline. Counterfeit vaccination passports and certificates will seriously undermine their role in reopening travel and events sectors unless the issue is addressed quickly.

OVID-19 Vaccine addressed – counterfeiting. If cinated to take up some jobs or who is responsible for verifying Moving away from paper docu- Set to Become vaccination passports are to be to attend theatre or music events people’s documents is that there ments would make counterfeiting ‘Cthe World’s Most the key to accessing so many will also push more of them to are far too many proposed dif- more difficult. Powerful Passport in 2021.’ aspects of life when they re- December – as soon as vaccina- seek out suppliers. ferent certificates, many of them This headline from SchengenVi- open, then there is a very strong tion began in the country - that Whatever happens, if or when saInfo.com captures extremely motivation for millions of people fake COVID vaccination cards In countries where, due to ‘vac- they are introduced, all business well the potential importance of to acquire a fake passport when were being sold for £5 on Tik- cine inequality’, the roll-out of travellers are set to experience vaccination documents now and they haven’t yet had their jabs, Tok, while thousands of people vaccination may take several A growing considerable extra delays as in the year ahead.Throughout the are trying to obtain forgeries in years, very few people will be eli- there will be long queues when travel, meetings and events in- Israel where their ‘Green Pass’ gible for legal vaccine documen- number of they are being checked; and dustry worldwide, vaccinations is already being used to access tation. In addition, every nation even longer queues if there are passports and certificates are Standardisation gyms and venues. A rapidly has a minority of anti-vaxxers and templates for different designs and fake docu- widely viewed by governments growing number of templates COVID-deniers who have decided fake documents ments in circulation. and airlines, as well as travel, of design, like for fake documents are being of- not to be vaccinated because they meetings and leisure associa- fered on the dark web. are fearful or concerned about are being offered tions as the catalyst to restart there is for data sharing and privacy so don’t their industries and kick-start identity Strong driving forces want to be ‘on the system'; but on the dark web economies. The implementa- There are many different driving they still want to fly and take part tion has started; Singapore passports, is forces for different audiences in events. Airlines is now testing the IATA around the world to acquire a paper or card, and no imminent Travel Pass on its Singapore- urgently needed counterfeit document. In the With so many people wanting signs of consolidation. Stan- London route. West, where many older people them, market forces will make dardisation of design, like there have already been vaccinated, many forgeries of good and bad is worldwide for identity pass- Adam Schrader An immediate consequence of either by choice or lack of op- millions of younger people will quality readily available very ports, is urgently needed, along Director of Operations, Riskline this development will be a major portunity. A clear indication of become frustrated by waiting to soon. What will make this easier with the introduction of sophis- new issue which will seriously this came in The Sun newspaper travel this summer. The possible for the criminals and more con- ticated anti-fraud measures in (Views expressed are the author’s own. The publication may or may not subscribe to them.) undermine their role unless it is in the UK which reported in early requirement to have been vac- fusing and difficult for everyone the design and manufacturing. TECHNOLOGY JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 TRAVTALK 11 ‘We need a universal solution’ Ideas such as health passports will be a foundation to ensure safe cross-border travel. But it’s going to be a long time until governments decide on a universal solution, says Virendra Jain, Co-Founder and CEO, Safe Travel Barometer – a B2B solution that monitors and benchmarks traveller health and safety measures.

Hazel Jain until governments decide on Airlines have certainly matured and safeguard health security a singular, universal solution in their incorporation of spe- within its own borders. You’ll find How are different destinations which strikes a balance between cific initiatives from a COVID-19 countries across a range of pre- India, China, and responding to fully vaccinated user privacy and verifying their health and safety perspective. paredness per se, to handle an international travellers? health status, which now is a We strongly believe that aspects outbreak while balancing with its others need to As countries reopen to travellers, critical health security matter. related to personal and health hy- vaccination rollout. It’s a dynam- align themselves most destinations want to main- giene will become a norm. Bear ic tandem between lockdown tain and safeguard health security Give us a perspective on how in mind that only a fraction of the versus preparedness. Countries in order to be within their borders. Accordingly airlines are faring and some of world is currently fully vaccinated which are reopening to others are they are striking a balance be- the things they are doing right and it’s going to be a multi-year Virendra Jain primarily assessing COVID-19 reconsidered Co-Founder and CEO tween the share of their own pop- that will serve them well in the affair to hit a critical mass, not- Safe Travel Barometer infections trends, share of popu- safe source ulation inoculated before opening next 1-2 years. withstanding the evolving muta- lation vaccinated and ultimately if borders to international travellers. tions. Health safety initiatives vaccinated. Specific to the US, the vaccine is recognised by the countries We’ve seen this play out in Israel will be incorporated in various there is an ongoing tug of war destination. Historically, major and Seychelles, for example. We lifestyle aspects including but not between federal and various source countries such as India, are also observing similar state- Safety limited to , hospitality, state governments regarding China, and others need to align of prioritising vaccination of its ments or sentiments made by airlines, tours, etc. the use of vaccine passports & themselves to the above in or- own citizens. However, travellers Thai and Canadian governments, initiatives will be discriminating non-vaccinated der to be reconsidered as a safe have given impetus to the con- wherein they want to achieve a How will cruising restart going travellers from cruising. source country. cept of vaccine tourism, simply certain share of their population incorporated in forward? Will 2021 see the ear- because they have travelled to fully or partly vaccinated before lifestyle aspects ly signs of revival for cruising? Why don’t travel bubbles Your views on vaccination tour- another part of the country or reopening for tourism. We have already witnessed river consistently work? Will they ism? Is it a viable business the world to get their jabs. We including, but not cruises restart in a controlled work better when travellers are proposition for tour operators? are also seeing early glimpses Concepts such as health pass- environment within Europe, and fully vaccinated? Vaccine tourism may not be of domestic vaccine tourism ports will be a foundation to limited to, the recent guidance by the US Once again it could potentially be directly commercialised by wherein people are travelling to ensure safe cross-border travel. hospitality CDC is encouraging towards narrowed down to every country governments or tourism depart- nearby cities or crossing state But it’s going to be a long time restarting cruises for the fully thinking what’s best to maintain ments for the obvious reasons borders to get their jabs.

Singapore to Surge in travel demand soon get three new attractions Contd from page 1 The choices Indians have It has been more than a year ingapore is all set for holidaying internationally since the COVID-19 pandemic to have three new are limited at the moment with struck, and people are now over- Stourist attractions only Russia welcoming Indi- done with quarantine and staying in a few months, reveals ans. Personally, I have not been at home. They are just waiting to GB Srithar, Regional Director pushing clients to start travel- be able to step out and holiday. - India, Middle East & South ling yet. I think, as responsible In fact, we have been getting Africa, Singapore Tourism travel curators, we should wait queries from clients who are Board (STB). “First is Mu- a while for the wave to settle waiting to get out and willing to Jay Bhatia travel anywhere. Our clients are Hasan Patel Rajeev Kale completely lest we break into Director, Tulsidas Khimji Holidays Director, Tripjack President & Country Head – Holidays, 3.0. Once the borders do open, already travelling within India to MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) I will personally recommend We are getting loads of que- whatever options are open and Global trends of leisure travel that clients travel only after available. Once the borders open bouncing back after successful In response to surveys ries from travellers who have both the doses of the vaccine and India is off the red zone list, vaccination is very promising. conducted by us in June 2021, completed both their vaccine to be safe. I have been making tourism will blossom. I truly hope As we look towards the west, 81% of respondents indicated doses. The challenge faced by bookings for clients who have even Covaxin gets approved by travel consultants are seeing they have already been vacci- us in India is that destinations made up their minds to travel. In WHO for international travel since huge growth in booking requests nated and this is one of the key where Indian visitors will be al- fact, some of them are making a lot of people have taken it; they as the nation’s vaccination drives drivers of travel demand. While lowed do not have direct con- bookings to Kashmir for Novem- were unaware of this and are continue. We have started ob- GB Srithar initial demand was restricted to nections. Similarly, destinations ber onwards. now panicking. serving similar hotel bookings Regional Director - India, Middle our HNI/UHNI segment, what is to which airlines are carrying East & South Africa, STB and international sector growth in noteworthy is that our teams are passengers, tourists are not per- our 30,000 travel agent network seeing interest from across seg- mitted to enter. Holidays in India seum of Ice Cream, for which in India. Russia, Serbia, Uzbeki- ments and not merely from met- are also gaining momentum Singapore will be the first-ev- stan, Mexico, USA are seeing ros but also tier-II markets like since mid-June this year. Kerala, er international location after good bookings. Last year, when Jaipur, Lucknow, Coimbatore, Karnataka, Kashmir are on the US. It will open later this year. destinations like Maldives and Mysuru, Chandigarh, Surat, top, other than local drivable The second is Asia’s tallest Dubai had eased travel for Indi- Baroda, Nagpur, Patna, etc. Cur- destinations for weekend breaks. slingshot, which will be a new ans, there was a huge surge in rently, the domestic favourites We are confident that with num- thrill-ride concept, and will demand. This year with the vac- include Leh-Ladakh, Kashmir ber of cases going down, a lot be open ing later this year in cine around, the demand is likely and Himachal with interest in of international destinations are Clarke Quay area. Finally, the to be even higher. international destinations like expected to open up for us. We Sky Helix Sentosa, which is Nagsri Prasad Sashidhar expect an increase between Anshu Tejuja Dubai, Maldives, Bali, Thailand Chief Happiness Officer Managing Director due to open in 2022,” he said. and Mauritius. NAGSRI (Mumbai) mid-July to August 2021. Ashoka Dream Holidays Inputs by Hazel Jain 12 TRAVTALK JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2020 QUICKBYTES Hybrid weddings in the offing? The pandemic has brought on some serious changes to the travel, tourism, events and hospitality world. As with everything else, the parameters of the wedding segment are also witnessing tremendous alterations. TRAVTALK speaks with six industry experts to find out what these changes are.

Almost 80% of the weddings Guests are now using their Intimate celebrations are be- are now waiting to happen in July budget to have an intimate hy- ing preferred by guests with the 2021. People aren’t planning brid wedding. The year 2021 approximate group size of 50 much in advance except for the had almost 50% of the year’s guests. There is also a preference super auspicious dates. But ho- auspicious dates in Q2 how- for residential weddings. The lead tels are asking crazy amounts of ever due to the second wave times have reduced with guests money – `75,000 only for rooms. we saw the entire quarter planning events within 10-15 Clients want to spend but they wiped out which postponed days. Room rates remain dynam- are not getting the opportunity most of the weddings for later ic as always and we try to work Mahendra Vakharia Jitendra Kejriwal with the best possible rates. With Ankur Sarawagi to do so because of the restric- this year. Room rates for saya Chairman, Arika Tour & Travels MD, Pathfinders Holidays a reduction in number of guests, India Country Head - The Knot tions. Nevertheless, weddings days have gone up, and we are Worldwide and social events, unlike business also vigilantly observing behav- families are exploring unique ele- There is good interest and Weddings have been hap- events, are here to stay in India. ioural changes in guests and ments and lavish menus to make demand for destination weddings pening right now albeit with only Couples started looking The day things get normal, there adapting accordingly. it memorable. starting November. The lead time 25-30 people. So the total expen- at intimate weddings and adopt- will be revenge celebrations! for final confirmations is definitely diture has gone down. But we are ing tech innovations to plan getting down as clients are look- hoping that by July 15, 2021 – by their weddings. Our wedding tech- ing at making final confirmations which date most people would nology platform, WeddingWire In- and payments not too many have taken the first dose of the dia, saw a 30% jump in queries in months in advance. The popular vaccine – things will start to ease H1 2021 for vendor services vis- destinations are evergreen Rajas- up. And by November-December, à-vis last year. This showcases than, Mussoorie, Mahabalipuram, we can expect the wedding sea- increased interest in planning and Goa, Sukhvilas at Chandigarh, and son to kick in. We are expecting scheduling weddings in the Sept- for intimate weddings with 50 pax this season to be very good. Dec 2021 period. The demand for approx. small boutique hotels like We expect last minute bookings destination weddings has gone up Indeco Hotels, few heritage prop- for December as the situation is by 62% with Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Rohit Chopra Esha Ghosh Rajeev Jain erties in Gujarat and Rajasthan are Regional Director - Sales & volatile. The booking time could Director of Events Udaipur being the top choices. Director, Rashi Entertainment getting very popular. Distribution, Accor India & South Asia be reduced to 20-25 days. Hyatt Regency Pune Inputs by Hazel Jain

ibis extends aid to community Tour operators are crucial Anand Singh, Director, Earthen Experiences, believes that government policies must not be designed only to support prime stakeholders like airlines and hotels, but also strengthen the tour operator community.

he Ministry has data nesses supported by banks. They are the ones who, by of registered tour op- They did some business dur- now, have lost all their assets Terators - the number ing the COVID pandemic also. and are desperately looking to of people employed with each Airlines flew without leaving the government to bail them can be verified from EPF, the IT middle seats empty and hotels out of misery. It is the travel department or from the amount hosted marriages and stayca- agent whose connections act ibis hotels has joined hands with The Robin Hood Army to extend its support to the community by providing meals to of turnover and tax paid - and tions. They will recover fast and as a broadband and reach bil- the less privileged. Through this initiative, ibis aims to deliver over 5,000 meals every month across Delhi, Gurugram, so should come up with a lions within the country as well Jaipur, Nashik, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Kolkata, bringing smiles to the less privileged. stimulus package accordingly. as overseas. It is that relentless It could be in the form of a tour- work that brings business not ism recovery fund like the one It is the travel only for airlines and hotels but in Austria, a working capital also for transporters, guides Relief camp in the Sunderbans loan like in Brazil, a tax pay- agent whose and craftsmen. It is the tour ment deferral like the one seen operator that will bring a smile in Costa Rica, or a three-month connections reach back to the rickshaw puller tax suspension on sales. What billions within the near Delhi’s Jama Masjid or the is inevitable here is that these boatman at Srinagar. packages should quickly reach country as well as those going through unbear- able financial suffering, people overseas at the grass-roots of tour- ism, the true stakeholders. it has been seen that the mo- As was earlier, the govern- ment the situation improves, ment’s concern should not be there is an unrealistic price confined to support only prime surge defying the demand and stakeholders such as airlines supply economics. This time, Anand Singh The Yaas relief and health check-up camp organised by ETAA Eastern India Chapter in association with CAS, NatureMates and and star hotels. Airline and the government should focus Director, Earthen Experiences The Rotary Club of Calcutta (South Central) was completed smoothly in June 2021 in Mousuni Islands, Sunderbans, despite the hotel owners are mostly inves- more on tour operators as they (Views expressed are the author’s own. challenges of bad weather, flooded roads and unavailability of public . tors who run multifaceted busi- have a wider base and reach. The publication may or may not subscribe to them.) OPINION JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 TRAVTALK 13 Valley awaits resurgence The Kashmir valley was one of the most frequented destinations after the first lockdown was lifted. However, the good days didn’t last long and the second wave bereaved the destination of tourists. Now, the vaccination drive and the number of positive cases going down is seeing travel and hospitality stakeholders pinning hopes on domestic tourists once again.

Nisha Verma before the second wave. “Un- the verge of extinction. Under clients have started visiting val- fortunately, I lost all bookings. the situation they need a com- ley too since last fortnight,” hen international travel The second wave was like a prehensive bailout package so shares Shah. halted because of CO- bad dream and dealt a serious that they can pay their debts and WVID in 2020, it was blow to the tourism industry raise the equipment afresh.” For Vivanta Dalview, Srinagar the domestic destinations that of Jammu and Kashmir. All as well, “leisure travel is leading picked up after the lockdown the stakeholders, including Green shoots with revival of domestic travel, was lifted. Kashmir was the hoteliers, houseboat owners, Owing to cases being reduced with many guests opting for long go-to destination for most do- travel agents, shikara owners across the country, there is stays with remote working con- mestic travellers. Abdul Hamid Zahoor Qari and others are worried in the Roop K Pandita some hope rising again in the tinuing to be a trend for many,” Chairman, TAAI - J&K Chapter General Manager, Welcomhotel Narwari, Chapter Chairman, valley due to 90% cancellation Pine-N-Peak Pahalgam valley. Rashid shares that the in- adds Rashid. ADTOI - J&K Chapter, says,“We of bookings.The industry has terest is visible in bookings at the received good number of do- suffered a loss of about `1500 hotel. “The recent phase-wise mestic tourists from Diwali 2020 crore during this period. How- unlocking and ease of travel re- onwards till March-end. Kashmir We are of the ever, the tourism businessmen The penetration strictions, especially across key was almost sold-out till June 15, hope that it will have pinned their hopes high on cities, is now seeing a steady 2021, but unfortunately second the government and believe that of the vaccination and significant increase in book- wave came, and we started be a good the situation will improve soon ings at the hotel,” he shares. receiving cancellations start- in the Union Territory” drive is Even Shah says that most of the ing March 15 onwards. By first season provided helping bolster tour operators have started get- week of April 21 almost all book- Whatever business that was ting queries “as arrival since last the third wave Irshu Hazari ings were cancelled,” he said. happening, came to a grinding confidence week have picked up to nearly Director, Euphoria Travel Services will not hit us halt immediately from April 6, 600 tourists visiting Kashmir on when most of the states includ- in travel daily basis.” ing the UT of J&K announced people were keen to escape the lockdowns, says Shah. “The Qari adds, “This time tour opera- The second confines of home, leading to a tourism arrivals dipped to open for public by first week of tors are also exploring other des- growth of drive-cations. Further near zero, but fortunately we July,” he adds. tinations and are trying that we wave was like buoyed by the festive season, bounced back and from June 15 should not confine our tourists we saw an exponential increase onwards, good number of tour- Qari further shares that almost to limited destinations(Gulmarg, a bad dream in bookings, especially in winter, ists are visiting valley. Although all hotels were empty with about Pahalgam and Sonmarg). and dealt a when Kashmir is akin to a magi- only high-end tourists are com- 90% cancellations. “Tour opera- cal fairyland.” ing to Kashmir, owing to closure tors are the main sufferers who Abdul Hamid Narwari serious blow to Chapter Chairman, ADTOI - J&K Chapter just have started their business- Roop K Pandita, General Man- es after a period of more than the industry ager, Welcomhotel Pine-N-Peak two years, which started since Pahalgam, echoes the thought. August 2019 after the abroga- Adventure tour “At Welcomhotel Pine N Peak, tion of Article-370,” he says. Better days ahead the bookings saw an uptick Pandita adds, “The operational The industry believes that busi- operators, who and almost reached pre-COVID performance slowed down. ness would pick up now and have raised levels. There was an influx of The second wave did leave an things would certainly improve. domestic bookings from stays impact however, it sublimed Nasir Shah “The penetration of the vac- equipment, are to dine-ins,” he says. owing to the pace of Indian Chairman IATO, Jammu & Kashmir Chapter cination drive is helping bolster Basharat Rashid economy bouncing back ahead confidence in travel,” says Pan- on the verge But the boom came with its Director of Sales - Vivanta Dalview of expectations and enabling dita. “We all live on the hope fair share of issues. Nasir factors being provided by that business in coming months of extinction Shah, Chairman IATO, Jammu the government.” The government should improve despite July and & Kashmir Chapter, reveals, August being a lean period in “When the small portion of The phase Case of adventure tour operators didn’t pay much Kashmir,” opines Shah. Post-COVID boom in started moving into Highlighting the plight of ad- Zahoor Qari, Chairman, TAAI- J&K, RT-PCR test was not made wise unlocking, venture tour operators, Narwari heed to our Narwari hopes that things get bet- J&K Chapter, agrees, “Almost mandatory by the UT Govern- adds, “Tour operators involved request, resulting ter now. “The people of Kashmir all hotels were sold out espe- ment as they firmly believed in especially in key in the adventure activity have are facing almost three years of cially at Gulmarg and Pahalgam. doing Rapid Antigen Test at the cities, is now raised huge infrastructure and in increase of lockdown now and tourism is These destinations had become entry points and at the airport. equipment for white water raft- providing vital role in Jammu & overcrowded. Many Bollywood IATO, including other tourism showing increase ing, paragliding, snow skiing, COVID cases Kashmir GDP,” he points out.While people had shown their pres- stake holders voiced our con- mountaineering, trekking & business would certainly revive, ence in the valley. Also, organ- cern with the government that in bookings camping equipment and equip- says Qari, “We are of the hope that ising winter games brought our RT-PCR Test must be made ment for other allied soft and Hence, they are providing itiner- it will be a good season provided valley in the limelight throughout mandatory in the larger interest hard adventure activities. They aries to tourist destinations and the third wave will not hit us again. the world.” of the society. The government of international destinations, as have procured this equipment can have at least a week's com- Presently our focus is on domestic didn’t pay much heed to our about 80-85% of budget ho- by getting loans from banks and fortable stay of their choice.” tourism and it will be satisfactory.” The hotels still are gushing over request, resulting in increase of teliers and houseboat owners other financial institutions, the the business that came their way COVID cases before the start of suffer without business, primar- adventure tour operators are fac- All about leisure The same thought is expressed at the time. Basharat Rashid, Di- second wave.” ily because not many trains are ing tremendous problems as for However, the incoming queries by hospitality players. “We have rector of Sales - Vivanta Dalview, available to Jammu from most last 3 years they have not been are predominantly for leisure again begun to see an uptick Srinagar, says, “We saw green Mayhem of second wave of the cities. Highway presently able to pay any EMI to banks. In- travel. “I believe whatever tour- in travel with the recent unlock shoots of travel begin to revive, Irshu Hazari, Director, Eupho- is still posing some problem, but stead, to make both ends meet, ism we get here, 99% of that is across key metros and a gradual with domestic travel driving de- ria Travel Services, says that good news is that new Banihal they have started selling their only leisure tourists, as MICE relaxation of travel restrictions in mand. An increasing number of he was getting good business Tunnel of 8.5 kms will be thrown assets. These operators are at has not yet started. Corporate the state,” informs Rashid. 14 TRAVTALK JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 GUESTCOLUMN

Sports tourism is something hours, you need to party harder Saraf has started with his son the other 16,” he shares. Manav, who joined Gainwell The tide must turn! a few years ago. “Manav is a Achievements & accolades sports enthusiast and both of us Professionally, one of the big- love watching cricket and other gest achievements, according Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, Manoj Saraf, MD, Gainwell Travel, sports together. Hence, seven to Saraf, was when they accom- has business in his blood and travel in his heart, and these two things have years ago, we started Gainwell plished handling a big group Sports and we became the offi- to Singapore on Star Cruises. made him achieve many successes while making sure he lives life to the fullest. “We had 1200 people on board, coming on 14-15 different he travel bug bit me cricket matches in London, Abu flights. There were two truck- early,” says Manoj Dhabi, Australia, etc,” he adds. One must loads of luggage (around 1500 TSaraf who is the pieces) to transfer at 10-12 dif- third generation in a family of The Gainwell journey ultimately run a ferent hotels and not a single entrepreneurs with business “When we started Gainwell piece was lost. It was a very spanning the automobile and nearly 30 years ago, it was actu- business like a satisfying experience to take 26- construction material sectors. ally a passion for travel and be- 27 buses for sightseeing and to Schooling, for Saraf, happened cause my wife Madhulika wanted business restaurants. They also went to in Darjeeling at St. Paul’s, to do something on her own. It Malaysia later. After that, groups post which he graduated from started with an all-ladies team, of 500-600 people used to be a St. Xavier’s, Kolkata, followed by when my wife got together with cial agent for the ICC World Cup breeze for us. I believe that travel a Masters from the US. some professionals. This gave in England and thereafter the has a lot to teach and logistics is us a headstart. In 1991, when World Cup in Australia, which one of them,” he shares. As a student, Saraf had many we got our IATA accreditation, got postponed. We even plan passions, one of which was we threw a huge cheese and to do the football world cup and car rallies. “Not many people champagne party, where we in- other big sporting events. The know that I enjoyed car racing vited almost all of Kolkata to the youth wants live stadium experi- and I even wanted to become Manoj Saraf, MD, Gainwell Travel, with his wife, Madhulika Saraf Oberoi Ballroom,” he enthusiasti- ences,” he exclaims. a race car driver at one point. me pursuing it. Hence, I had laysia and many other coun- cally shares. And while Gainwell In my early 20s, I participated to stop,” he reminisces. Today, tries,” he shares. began as a means to utilise time So how does the ever-busy in some car rallies, mainly the though car rallies are out of the and have some fun while at it, Saraf wind down? “I love watch- MRF monsoon rally in eastern picture, he does still enjoy tak- Another sport that Saraf enjoys The company soon began pick- ing movies, listening to music India and even the Himalayan ing the car out on long drives. is the ever-favourite cricket. He ing up as a larger scale business as well as singing. I even tried Guldeep Singh Sahni Car Rally. However, at that “I explore places while driv- was even part of both his school and the entrepreneur in Saraf my hand at cooking during the MD, Weldon Tours & Travels point the rally scene in India ing not only in India, but also and college teams. “Besides took over. “One must ultimately lockdown. I also help my wife wasn’t professional and my internationally. I have driven playing and watching cricket, run a business like a business,” in gardening. My mantra is that (Guldeep Singh Sahni talks about the lives of travel professionals outside of work. Views expressed are his family wasn’t very keen on all over Europe, America, Ma- I love travelling abroad to see he says. if you are working hard for eight own; the publication may not subscribe to them.)

Tripjack conducts vaccination drive Redevelopment underway A redevelopment project approved for the Emirates Old Trafford includes plans for a 1,025-seater stand, a heritage centre, and a new retail store. It also includes significant expansion of the Hilton Garden Hotel.

TT Bureau the Club could continue to host major competitions, matches ancashire Cricket has and events, as it has done announced that the throughout its storied history. LClub has received This redevelopment will play approval from Trafford Council a key role in the Club’s long- In order to ensure safety for its employees, Tripjack recently conducted a vaccination drive for its staff at its Mumbai for a new venue redevelopment term financial strategy. The office and managed to vaccinate more than 250 members. Hasan Patel, Director, Tripjack, said, “We urge each and project at Emirates Old Trafford. revised plans provide greater everyone to take this necessary step towards ending this pandemic.” The new project includes plans for a 1,025-seater stand, a her- Daniel Gidney CEO, Lancashire Cricket itage centre, a guest services hub, and a new retail store fac- This will enhance ing directly on to Brian Statham events capacity by up to 200 Live blissfully in the Far East Way. The new stand, which re- additional guests for confer- our reputation places the Red Rose Suite, will ences and events. include enhanced pitch-view- as a world-class ing facilities for Lancashire’s The hotel expansion will pro- venue for Members, comprising a dual- vide new opportunities to host aspect suite located within the even more large-scale events. business, sport spectator viewing terrace. Daniel Gidney, Chief Execu- tive at Lancashire Cricket, said, and leisure Also included within the plans “The new stand and hotel ex- is a significant expansion of the tension complete the redevel- Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, with a opment of Emirates Old Traf- revenue generation opportu- new extension situated within ford and will further enhance nities in the short and long the existing stadium footprint. our reputation as a world-class term and, crucially, enable us This includes provision of a fur- venue for business, sport and to upgrade Emirates Old Traf- Far East Village Hotel Yokohama, managed by Far East Hospitality, has opened doors to guests. This is the ther 100 bedrooms, taking the leisure. The decade-long £60 ford’s facilities, increase our company’s second property in Japan, and is located within a five-minute walk from Sakuragicho Station on JR Line and Yokohama Municipal Subway or Bashamichi Station on Minatomirai Line. total hotel capacity to 250 on million redevelopment of the overall capacity and improve site, and increases the venue’s ground was undertaken so that the event-day experience.” FAMILYALBUM JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 TRAVTALK 15 Yoga: The ultimate balance The 21st of June has been recognised as International Day of Yoga by the UN. This year, celebrations were emphasised by the growing importance of this ancient Indian practice in fighting the COVID menace and staying fit, and the tourism industry enthusiastically relayed the message ‘health truly is wealth’. We share some glimpses…

Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways and MSME, performs yoga Uttarakhand's tourism minister, Satpal Mahraj, meditates in the State capital Tourism Minister PS Patel and Rupinder Brar, ADG, MOT, are all smiles at Delhi's Red Fort

Children showcase their talent at Chandrasekhar Azad Park in Uttar Pradesh Some more yoga techniques showcased by enthusiastic children at Chandrasekhar Azad Park, UP People stretch their muscles out at Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat

A group of dancers in traditional attire at Karnataka's Hampi Saree-clad students perform yoga on stage at Institute of Hotel Management, Chennai

'Reaching for the sky,' people perform yoga in Goa A cultural music performance celebrating International Day of Yoga in Goa Ravi Gossain, Managing Director, Erco Travels, performs the Surya Namaskar

Officials of Indiatourism Delhi perform Yoga on a lush green lawn Acing that stretch, people perform yoga at Basavanna Lipakshi, Karnataka 16 TRAVTALK JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 STATES Suggestions invited for Forts Scheme Maharashtra Tourism has invited suggestions and objections from people and experts on its Forts Scheme till July 8, the document for which is available on its website. The state has also received a nod from the Urban Development Department to charge water tax and property tax from non-classified hotels registered with DoT as per industrial rates.

TT Bureau dustrial rate for non-classified hotels that fulfil the mandatory and non-agricultural tax avail- hotels. The concerned depart- ‘minimum basic standards’ and able to the registered hotels as aharashtra Tourism ments have to issue circular/ are registered with the Director- per industrial rates.” Around 300 will provide basic tour- resolutions/letters to the con- ate of Tourism. Mist amenities at 337 cerned authorities. non-classified forts, under the Dr Dhananjay Sawalkar, Di- ‘Maharashtra Forts Scheme’. Similarly, on 14th June, the Joint rector, Directorate of Tourism, These basic tourist amenities Secretary, Revenue and Forest Maharashtra government, said, Giving Industry include approach road, drinking department, issued a letter to “Giving Industry status to hospi- status will make water, , toilet, electric- Dr Dhananjay Sawalkar GR to all the Commissioners, all the Divisional Commission- tality sector will make electricity Director, Directorate of Tourism ity, solid waste management, Government of Maharashtra Municipal Corporations and Di- ers and Collectors to apply non- rates, electricity charges, water charges and signages, tourist information rector, Directorate of Municipal agricultural tax as per the indus- bill, property tax, development centre, guides, caravan camp- Administrations, to charge water trial rate to all the hotels/ green tax, additional floor space index taxes available ing, parking and beautification experiential tourism, implement- tax and property tax from non- to registered of the vicinity. The document is ing agencies of the scheme, pro- classified hotels registered with up on the Maharashtra Tourism motion of fort tourism, functions the Directorate of Tourism, as hotels at website and will be open for of the agency selected for the per the industrial rates. suggestions and objections till 8 promotion, availability of funds, industrial rates July, 2021. Suggestions and ob- committees for selection of the Government of Maharashtra jections can be shared on diot@ forts to implement the scheme, had awarded Industry status maharashtratourism.gov.in. terms of reference of the com- to the hospitality sector in April non-classified hotels, from all mittees, etc., have been made 1999, but that remained only over Maharashtra, have applied Maharashtra is home to over 400 available on the website. on paper and wasn’t imple- to avail the tax benefits with the forts, out of which approximately mented. Last year, the state Directorate of Tourism (DoT). 350 forts are on records. Through ‘Industry’ status gets nod government issued the GR, an- After inspection, if these hotels this scheme, all the facilities to be On 21st June, the Urban De- nouncing the criteria for levy- fulfil all the said criteria, they will provided in and around the forts, velopment Department issued ing taxes and charges at the in- be eligible for the same. Demand is re-emerging Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel surveyed over 4,000 customers across India’s Tier I-III cities in a recent survey to identify emerging consumer behaviours and trends that will drive travel preferences in the COVID era. The survey reveals strong travel demand with 69% respondents keen to resume travel in 2021 and 31% in 2022.

TT Bureau Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, Nagpur, travel behaviour and customer highlighted by 48% and 34% v Demand for both Domestic v International: Dubai-Abu Surat, Baroda, Bhubaneswar, expectations: respondents, respectively (54%) as well we Interna- Dhabi, Maldives, Mauritius, he survey by Thomas Lucknow, Chandigarh, Mysuru, tional (46%) destinations Thailand, Europe, etc. Cook (India) and SOTC Coimbatore, Visakhapatnam, v Strong Travel Desire/ Intent: v Willingness to Increase TTravel covered consum- Guwahati, Patna, etc. A significant 69% respon- Spends basis Health & v India: Kashmir, Leh-Lada- v Duration of Stay: 35% re- ers of India’s top eight metros, dents indicated keen interest Safety: 66% are willing to kh, Himachal Pradesh, the spondents chose holidays mini metros like Pune and key Tier The data analysis has to travel in 2021 post ease increase spend to ensure Andaman Islands, Goa, between 3-5 days; 52% for II & III markets of Jaipur, Indore, revealed valuable insights on in restrictions - with 18% better health & safety Kerala, etc. 6-12 days; 13% for a holiday ready to travel immediately of over 12 days post unlock and 51% within 3-6 months v Travel Companions: 62% respondents prefer to travel v Financial Safety: 81% re- with family/friends; 20% as spondents reiterated their couples/solo;18% in a vac- need for refundable/zero cinated group cancellation products v Need for Human Touch/ v Physical/Personal Safety: Expertise: 77% respondents 70% respondents rank continued to express strong Health & Safety as a preference for interaction key consideration with an expert for guidance/ reassurance - 27% opting v Re-sanitation of rooms: This to purchase holidays was selected by 52% respon- through retail outlets; 17% for dents as a key requirement home service; 33% preferred a contactless ex- v Fully vaccinated hotel perience of a virtual store/ staff, drivers was a need video chat. HOTELS JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 TRAVTALK 17 Offering the best of both worlds Amidst the several hotels, , serviced residences and homestays mushrooming across the country, Earthaa Escapes comes as a breath of fresh air. Founded by Sehar Shamim along with Sanjay Wadhawan and US Jamwal, Earthaa has already opened its first , in Mashobra.

Nisha Verma tioned to fill a gap in the market. stays for the traveller who wants its launch and is running at Travellers had to earlier choose to sit back and enjoy their holiday. 100% occupancy. However, ex- or Sehar Shamim, the from a fully serviced hotel or a Earthaa provides the service of a pansion is on cards. “We plan Earthaa Escapes brand non-serviced homestay, wherein luxury hotel with the privacy and to bring 20 homes under our Fis an amalgamation of a they had to buy groceries, cook space of a homestay,” she says. umbrella this financial year, and luxury hotel and a private home- food and clean after themselves, reach a milestone of 50 homes in stay. “Earthaa is a luxury home- thereby taking away valuable The company’s flagship prop- two years. We will be focusing a stay start-up creating curated family time during their breaks. erty, Aranya, at Mashobra, lot on our operational excellence experiences for the discerning Earthaa intends to fill this void has seen great response within each home. Currently, we traveller. The brand is being posi- by providing fully serviced home- within a couple of months of are looking at many locations, in- cluding Himachal Pradesh, Utta- rakhand and Goa to begin with,” Shamim shares.

For sales, they are reaching the consumers through different channels and will also launch their own website enabled with bookings status in their respec- She believes that experiences a booking engine. “We are ac- tive homes,” she informs. For like Earthaa would change how tively using the OTAs and offline promotions of Earthaa, they are travel is perceived in India. “Ear- agents who deal with the luxury aggressively marketing through thaa is poised to bring a steep segment. We are also launching their own network, social media, change in the experiential holi- our website in July complete with travel agents and OTAs. “Soon day market through its curated a booking engine and payment our website will be live, and we experiences in luxury, fully ser- gateway integration. The website will be using that also for pushing viced homestays. The discerning also has a separate section for our marketing and promotional traveller is ready for this change,” homeowners for them to view the strategies,” adds Shamim. she says. The invincible travel agents While it was widely predicted that the internet was going to kill off travel agents when digital tools were placed at every traveller’s disposal, that event hasn’t occurred due to several reasons. Now more than ever, travellers need agents to not just secure bookings but also help them in times of emergencies.

Hazel Jain along with connections way too edge of the carriers and actual short or way too long – ones that aircraft, means they can advise Agent expertise no responsible travel agent would on how to reach the destination at No one knows everything about let their clients book. Good travel the best possible price and in the travel, no matter how deeply they agents do not just know what the most comfortable configuration. are involved in the industry. Some best hotel is, they know what the travellers cheat their way around best hotel is for you and your Special deals by sticking to brands wherever budget and can help you find the Whether you are trying to book they go. But in many tourist hot- right fit. space at a coveted 8-villa sa- beds, all the best hotels are the fari lodge in Africa or get a ones you have likely never heard During emergencies room in a top Paris hotel dur- of. This is where a travel agents’ Stuff happens and big weather ing Fashion Week, most hote- knowledge comes handy. And events have become more liers keep emergency inven- while even the best travel agent widespread, and sooner or later tory and guess who gets it? can’t know everything either, the Mother Nature is going to strike good agencies have experts and us when flying. But there are Their preferred travel partners they all work together. plenty of non-weather events are usually the ones who used a etc. In such a situation, it’s the and you will lose the safety net they have known for years who disrupting flights, cruises, trains travel agent. travel agent who can help travel- advisors provide when things go give them a lot of business! The best fit and destinations, from civil un- lers navigate all of this and avoid wrong. But in a couple of other Anytime there is scarcity, there is The major search sites routinely rest to volcanic eruptions to dis- Cutting through clutter the travel landmines that lay in cases, buying your air through no substitute for personal con- leave out flights and even entire ease outbreaks to massive wild- There is an information overload front of them. an agent can actually save you nections, and the best agents airlines in their results. A lot of the fires, and even airlines that went right now with thousands of new money, or miles, or both. What have built these over years or flights they do show are the ones bust and shut down suddenly. hotels on the scene, all sorts Safety net agents can do is unparalleled decades. Plus we are living in travellers don’t want, starting Anything that causes cancel- of new cruise ships, passport Even the best advisors prob- to anything travellers will find the age of ‘’ with ‘basic economy’ fares that ations means hassles, but the and visa issues, weather, transit ably can’t get it for less than elsewhere in terms of value. and good advisors create one come with tons of restrictions people who get through this strikes, political unrest, natural you can buy it online, though of kind experiences most people and fees, so the price you see process the most smoothly and disasters, , travel you still have to deal with all the Their negotiated air contracts, would never have imagined in the isn’t the one you end up paying, the ones who get rebooked first providers going out of business, pitfalls of the online travel sites along with their in-depth knowl- first place. ASSOCIATIONTALK Progressing on climate action Media Partners: UNWTO is inviting public and private stakeholders from around the world to take part in a Global Survey of Climate Action in Tourism and help identify front-running initiatives and opportunities to accelerate said action. JULY 2021 Manas Dwivedi Network. The Survey is also part Date Event Time of the preparations for the UN Cli- he objective of this mate Change Conference COP26 1 Spain Tourism Webinar 03:00 pm global survey is to and the results will be presented 6 Israel Tourism Webinar 03:00 pm Tbetter understand the ongoing climate action efforts in 8 Spain Tourism Webinar 03:00 pm the tourism sector and identify G20 Tourism Ministers, highlight- 9 Thomas Cook India webinar TBA front running initiatives and op- ed the need to transform tourism The green portunities to accelerate climate operations for climate action. 13 Israel Tourism Webinar 03:00 pm action. It is addressed to tour- Zurab Pololikashvili Otherwise, emissions from transformation is 15 CAPA India webinar on Airport slots 04:00 pm ism destinations (governments Secretary-General, UNWTO global tourism could rise by at 29 CAPA India webinar on Aircraft Financing 04:00 pm and organisations), businesses least 25% by 2030, as estimated needed not just (accommodation providers, tour In May, the Tourism Ministers in the latest research carried out for the planet, operators and transport provid- of the G20 nations stressed by UNWTO and ITF. The survey ers), associations and networks. the need to rethink tourism and is led by UNWTO in collaboration but also for AUGUST 2021 The deadline to reply is July 15. shape a more resilient, sustain- with UNFCCC and with support 13-15 Holiday Expo Vadodara able and inclusive sector. They from the Trade tourism itself On this, Zurab Pololikashvili, also committed to take action Association (ATTA), San Francis- 23-25 Global Youth Tourism Summit Sorrento, Italy Secretary-General, UNWTO, said, and to promote such a green co State University and Tourism 26 CAPA India webinar on India-ME Aviation 04:00 pm “The pandemic and its impact on transformation. The UNWTO Declares a Climate Emergency. It in November in Glasgow. It has tourism, jobs and revenues, offers Recommendations for the Tran- is implemented within the frame- been developed within the frame- an unprecedented reminder of the sition to a Green Travel and Tour- work of the work of One Planet Sustainable SEPTEMBER 2021 need to rebalance our relationship ism Economy, welcomed by the Programme of the One Planet Tourism Programme. 10-12 TTF Kolkata with people, planet and prosperity. The green transformation of the 23-25 TTF Ahmedabad sector is needed, not just for the The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has launched the Jobs Factory, powered by 29-1 Oct TTF Mumbai planet, but also for tourism itself, Hosco, the global hospitality network. This innovative platform is designed to connect talent boosting competitiveness and in- For more information, contact us at: [email protected] with employers across the sector, being the perfect solution for hospitality recruitment. creasing resilience.” Travelexic offers digitised MICE Ops Travelexic has joined hands with Thomas Cook and SOTC to develop a custom solution for their MICE vertical. Their technology aims to replace the human-intensive MICE Ops. Travelexic also provides a mobile application for ease of engagement and management of the tour.

Nisha Verma a family, many times over. In our fully White-labelled traveller seamlessly and efficiently. Tools other words, there is repetition App helps raise the overall ex- for engagement include broad- ravelexic is a SaaS- of work across multiple pas- perience by keeping the traveller casting, polling, chat and so based business pro- sengers, requiring large teams informed of the entire process forth. Additionally, we offer tools Tcess automation solu- and redundant processes to including his visa status, travel- for expense recording, inventory tion for tour and MICE operators, minimise errors and meet related updates, tickets, etc. and attendance management. co-founded by Dhruv Chauhan. deadlines. Moreover, since it is The traveller gets a paperless Moreover, we relieve him/her “It helps create a bridge between B2B, the scope of error is next experience by having access from the inconvenience of car- fulfilment teams, the handler and to nil.” to all his documents, itinerary, rying hard copies by providing ultimately the end traveller. Our tickets, etc. In addition, our tools access to passenger details solution brings value by helping Chauhan says that Travelexic for on-ground engagement such including meal plans, rooming, teams cut cost, improve service aims to replace the traditional as polling, chat and broadcast arrival/departure details through delivery, and enhance traveller human-intensive nature of ensure traveller remains en- the TM App,” he explains. experience,” he says. MICE operations through gaged and always connected. technology. “Our approach Lastly, we maximise collection Speaking on the partnership Claiming that it simplifies the combines automation with of feedback through a trigger- with Thomas Cook and SOTC, processes for companies design thinking to achieve driven custom feedback tool,” he shares, “It has been a dream that are handling big incentive both efficiency and increased Chauhan explains. come true! Our system has groups, Chauhan adds, “Large productivity. The document and bulk reminder-cum-QC mails other big focus area has been benefited immensely from their groups require all the effort that information collection process ensure the operators' produc- the experience of the end travel- The highlight of Travelexic is the inputs and allowed us to build goes into managing travel for is one such workflow, where we tivity is maximised. Other such ler and the corporate in case of tour manager (TM) App. “Once a solution that will not only help use a combination of Travelexic workflows include traveller reg- MICE. A global report by SITE the tour is on ground, the tour them cut cost but significantly forms and bulk mailing to make istration and approval, bulk doc- back in 2019 had highlighted the manager is the single most criti- improve their customer experi- Access Travelexic the entire process seamless. ument sharing and rooming,” growing importance of traveller cal aspect of the tour. Our tour ence." Chauhan also claims To learn more about Travelexic, The document tracker gives you he says. There are many other experience and their feedback manager App helps augment that the ability to work remotely, log on to www.travelexic.com a single view of all pendency, benefits for companies opting on the overall success of an in- his capabilities and provide him yet be productive, will now incoming documents, plus our for Travelexic, he insists. “The centive programme. Here again, the necessary tools to manage be showcased.

20 TRAVTALK JULY 1ST FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2021 MOVEMENTS

CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS QATAR NATIONAL TOURISM COUNCIL VIVANTA DWARKA Mumbai Qatar New Delhi Cathay Pacific has appointed Abhijit Abhyankar as the airline’s new Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) has appointed Deveekaa Vivanta New Delhi - Dwarka has appointed Dhananjaai Singh as its Regional Head of People. He will manage South Asia, Middle East and Nijhawan to lead the International PR and Communications team, to General Manager. Singh brings with him years of valued knowledge Africa (SAMEA) during his tenure at the company assist in marketing the destination in key markets and experience gained from his association with and will be stationed at Mumbai. He will as part of the country’s strategy to become a leading international and domestic hospitality be heading the people team and will be world-leading tourism destination. Nijhawan’s groups including being the Executive Vice responsible for Human Resource strategy and remit covers key markets including India, President at a renowned chain in New Delhi. execution, internal stakeholder management United Kingdom, Germany, Australia and He has been instrumental in elevating the and collaboration, talent management and United Arab Emirates with a focus on overall positioning of hotels by implementing succession planning, employee engaging and penetrating travel trade several strategic initiatives and carefully leading engagement, people cost and consumer media. Here, she the execution of key aspects of the business budgeting as well as will execute QNTC’s tailored global plan. Singh is a hotel management business continuity. communications campaigns. graduate from the Pusa Institute of Technology, Delhi.

THE LEELA PALACES, HOTELS AND RESORTS RAFFLES RENAISSANCE CENTRE HOTEL Mumbai Udaipur Mumbai The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has announced the appointment Raffles Udaipur, the brand’s first forthcoming hotel in India, has Prabdip Singh Arora has been appointed as the Director of Rooms of Natasha Mehta as Vice President - Special Projects and Brand announced the appointment of Abhishek Sharma as General for Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel & Lakeside Chalet Experience. In her new role, Mehta will lead a Manager. He is a well-recognised leader with – Mumbai, Marriott Executive Apartments. In his critical function of Special Projects that will over two decades of outstanding experience current leadership role, he will be responsible help the company further elevate the brand in luxury hospitality and has an exceptional for handling the entire Rooms Division experience. She brings with her over 17 network across the industry. In his new Operations for the complex and ensuring that years of comprehensive expertise in role, Sharma will lead the task of introducing the guest experience is raised to exceptional the having worked the legendary Raffles brand to the levels. Armed with a decade of experience with The Oberoi Hotels and Resorts at country, and taking charge of operations in the field of hospitality, Arora has been renowned hotels like The Oberoi New for Raffles Udaipur. He joins the hotel with associated with leading palace hotels like Delhi, The Oberoi Udaivilas, and The over nine years of leading teams in the Umaid Bhawan Palace – Jodhpur and Trident Hyderabad. Prior to this, role of GM, throughout luxury Rambagh Palace – Jaipur. Mehta was the GM at The hotels and resorts. Oberoi Mumbai.

CROWNE PLAZA TODAY OKHLA New Delhi Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla has appointed Shuvendu Raffles Udaipur has announced the appointment of Rajan Malhotra With over two decades of relevant experience in Marketing & Banerjee as the new General Manager. With an illustrious experience of as Director of Sales and Marketing. He will be a part of the pre- Communications across several hotels and other industries, more than two decades, Banerjee has held leadership opening leadership team at India’s first outpost Aparna Banerjee Paul has recently joined as positions and worked with renowned domestic by the iconic brand Raffles. In his role, the Marketing and Communications Manager and international hospitality brands across the Malhotra will take charge of introducing the at Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre country. In his new role, he will be responsible for world-renowned Raffles brand experience Hotel & Lakeside Chalet, Mumbai – the continued success of the hotel by combining in the country as well as planning and Marriott Executive Apartments. She will be cutting-edge hospitality with innovative implementing strategies to support the responsible for overall marketing activities experiences for the guests. A company veteran hotel’s unrivalled positioning. He will be including devising appropriate marketing having spent over 14 years at IHG Group, leading the sales and marketing team, strategies towards maximising hotel Banerjee moves to this role from exploring business opportunities revenues. Prior to this, Paul was heading Crowne Plaza Cochin. and will be responsible for the Marketing & Communications at budgeting, etc. The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata.

Sunil Kumar, General Manager, The Westin Goa, says, The biggest stress-buster for Amandeep Kaur, The lockdown has given Reuben Kataria, GM, The “It is imperative to spend time and indulge in activities General Manager at WelcomHotel by ITC Hotels, Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru, the time to experiment that make you happy. I find solace in my two dogs. Bengaluru, is her 7-year old son. She has also and hone skills in the kitchen. “I tried my hand at Spending time with them brings restarted her yoga practice cooking European and Italian cuisine. so much joy and lights up my during the lockdown. She Also, once travel resumes, I mood.” His next holiday will be says, “I have started definitely want to explore a to the United Kingdom. “I have practising Asthangna place which is well-known been there before, enjoyed the yoga again and I also for its art, gastronomic delightfully diverse offerings catch up on my reading indulgences, opulence, of the place right from the food which I have been and culture – all coinciding - scones and cream being my wanting to for some beautifully in one place. And I all-time favourite, the pebble time.” Speaking about cannot think of a better place beaches; their enthusiasm travel, Kaur shares, than Paris for that,” he for sports and music. “My next holiday will says. When travelling is be Himalayas." permitted, my first destination would be the UK,” he shares.

LASTPAGE Kerala on fast-track revival Kerala will complete its tourism projects in a time-bound manner by giving top priority to those under the government’s 100-day programme, according to Tourism Minister of the state, PA Mohamed Riyas.

Manas Dwivedi Mentioning about the state’s ment is working to provide COV- revised budget for 2021-22, ID-19 vaccination to everyone in fter reviewing ongo- he said the move will give a the tourism sector of the state. ing tourism projects in big thrust to the revival of the Athe states, the Tourism pandemic-riddled tourism sec- “We are mulling to make fa- Minister said that the authorities tor in Kerala. “The additional al- mous tourist destinations in the will hold urgent meetings with location of `50 crore proposed state 100 per cent vaccinated the heads of various department for mounting massive market- zones by July 15 with the sup- and district administrations to across the state on the lines of ing campaigns will help Kerala port of the health department. achieve the aim. The announce- the one at Veli in Thiruvanan- ments come after Kerala Chief thapuram, the first of which will Minister Pinarayi Vijayan an- come up in Kadalundi,” the Min- nounced a 100-day action plan ister further added. to help the state tide over the economic slowdown triggered Talking about other initiatives, he by the second wave of the CO- said the online booking system VID-19 pandemic. of the hotels of Kerala Tour- ism Development Corporation Riyas also said discussions will (KTDC) will be upgraded with be held soon with people’s rep- the introduction of Channel resentatives and district admin- Manager Software to make the istrations regarding the tourism booking of rooms from any part development activities to be im- of the world quick and hassle- plemented in Wayanad district, free. “The upgrading of the on- Kozhikode city and Fort Kochi. line booking system is the first Tourism attract visitors from The government has already major step to connect the prime niche markets and new seg- started providing vaccines to properties of KTDC to global ments. Similarly, new projects those working in the industry tourism networks. The system and circuits will ensure that all after including them in the pri- KTDC hotel will connect KTDC hotels with regions of the state would ben- oritised list considering them as major booking websites like efit from tourism development. frontline COVID-19 fighters,” the chains will be Booking.com, Agoda and Indian The budget has also taken due minister said. booking engines like MakeMy- care of the interests of the stake- renovated under Trip, Goibibo and IRCTC of the holders of the key sector by the project Indian Railways, giving them proposing that sufficient working greater international visibility,” capital and other credit support ‘Mission Facelift’ Riyas said. of over `400 crore would be made available for the growth The Minister insisted that the of industry through financial “The government would initiate ongoing projects will raise the institutions like Kerala Finance ways to increase the arrival of comfort and quality of services Corporation (KFC). A provision tourists by appointing Keralites of top hotels of KTDC to interna- of `30 crore as Government residing in Arab countries, Eu- tional standards. He informed, share has been made to work rope and the US as brand am- “The projects will be completed out a Rejuvenation Package for bassadors of state’s tourism,” within the timeframe set for tourism enterprises,” he said. he added. them. The quality and choice of dishes served in KTDC restau- Additionally, all popular “KTDC hotel chains will be reno- rants will also be improved, by holiday destinations vated under the project ‘Mission including local delicacies in their in the state of Kerala Facelift’ after classifying them menu, which will make the food may also soon be on a priority basis,” he revealed, served by them appealing to the declared as com- announcing major projects under local patrons as well as tourists. plete ‘vaccinated the tourism corporation. “More- The ambience and service of all zones’ as the PA Mohamed Riyas over, floating restaurants will allied facilities at KTDC hotels state govern- Minister of Tourism, Government of Kerala be set up in select destinations will also be improved.”

Postal Reg. No.: DL(ND)-11/6044/2021-22-23; WPP No.: U(C)-178/2021-23 for posting on 1st-2nd and 16th-17th of the same month at New Delhi GPO, New Delhi-110001, RNI No.: 53492/1991 Date of Publication: 30-06-2021