JULY 2016

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Volume II Issue XXII JULY 2016 Annual Subscription ` 660
In Conversation
Sandeep
Dwivedi
CCO, ITQ
Exclusive
National Civil
Aviation
Policy 2016
What does the
UK’s exit from the
EU mean for travellers?
Need to Know
Adventure
In Sikkim
CAPE TOWN
South Africa’s Mother City
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CONTENTS
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REGULAR
NEWS IN BRIEF 6
TRANSPORTATION 14
STATE 18
NTO 27
HOSPITALITY 30
CRUISE 36
FACT & FIGURES 37
APPOINTMENT & EVENTS 38
TRAVEL BUSINESS
BREXIT
What does the
UK’s exit from the
EU mean for travellers?
EXCLUSIVE
National
Civil Aviation
Policy 2016
8
10

EDITOR’S NOTE
NEED TO KNOW
Adventure
In Sikkim
20
Dear Readers,
Well after a long time, the much talked about National
Civil Aviation Policy has become a reality. In a significant
move the cabinet has approved the new NCAP proposed
by Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India recently.
WHEREABOUTS
CAPE TOWN
South Africa’s Mother City
Apart from three major decisions; capping of fares (on
non-established air routes), moving from 5/20 to 0/20 norm
and revised Bilateral Traffic Rights; the policy introduces
several changes which are expected to encourage more
connectivity and enable carriers to expand operations
faster. Also, the policy has some changes that should
unlock regional connectivity as well as open up
opportunities for carriers entering India. It should drive
growth in the hugely under-penetrated domestic market
and catalyse economic growth in the secondary and
tertiary destinations.
26
However there are several issues that need more attention
and clarification. The Policy is silent on critical aspects of
economic regulation such as the rate of return, regulatory
asset base, separation of airport assets and costs, etc.
It does not provide the sector with the institutional
infrastructure required for long-term growth, and not
focused on creating structures for managing growth. The
long pending structural issue of high sales tax on aviation
turbine fuel (ATF) has not addressed properly. And it
is silent on formation of an independent Civil Aviation
Authority (CAA).
Our readers will have an opportunity to know the feedback
from industry stakeholders published in this edition.
Keep reading…
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NEWS IN BRIEF
Insights into the Chinese
outbound market
ASSOCIATION
The 6 th PATAcademy-HCD, under the theme ‘100+ Million
Chinese Outbound Travellers – Learn How To
Increase Your Market Share’, successfully ended on June
15, 2016. The three-day interactive programme took at the PATA
Engagement Hub in PATA Headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand. The
programme attracted 18 rising stars from 13 public and private
organisations coming from seven destinations.
Dr Mario Hardy, CEO, PATA said, “According to our latest visitor
forecasts, arrivals from China to Asia Pacific destinations will climb
from an estimated 102 million in 2015 to more than 150 million by
2020, dominating the region’s international tourism landscape.
Our delegates had the opportunity to gain further insights and best
practices on how to increase their market share into this highly
lucrative segment.”
In addition to the presentations at the PATA Engagement Hub, Local
Alike took participants to a half day tour of Talat Noi, one of the
oldest Chinese communities in a lesser known part of Chinatown
in Bangkok. Participants were given the opportunity to discover the
authentic experience of the local Chinese community and took part
in a traditional Chinese food workshop.
ASSOCIATION
SME’s tour operator organised protest
against OTA’s for selling below the cost
The Small and Medium travel agents/tour operators from across the country organised
a peaceful protest against the OTA’s (Online Travel Agents) for selling hotel rooms and
tour packages below the cost. The group claims that the OTA’s are following unethical
practices which are affecting the reputation and livelihoods of the small and medium travel
agents in India. More than thousand SME’s tour operators came together from all over India
to protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.
Speaking at the occasion Subhash Goyal, Immediate Past President, Indian Association
of Tour Operators said, “I congratulate the SME’s tour operators for starting the national
movement against the unethical practices by foreign funded OTA’s who are buying a hotel
room for Rs. 2000 and selling it for less than Rs 1000. With this type of practice none of
the small operator can compete and slowly they are going bankrupt. This is a very serious
situation and the government and travel associations must look into the matter.”
Ministry of Tourism
ASSOCIATION
MoT organises various activities on International Yoga Day
Ministry of Tourism celebrated the second International Day
of Yoga on 21st June 2016 by organising various marketing
and promotional activities. The Overseas Marketing
Division of the Ministry hosted a FAM tour for a group of 50 foreign
delegates consisting of tour operators, travel agents, media
professionals, opinion makers and scholars from 20 countries which
are source markets and the markets that matter for promotion of
Yoga and Wellness.
This group of 50 delegates divided into two groups, which
participated in Delhi and Chandigarh on 21st June, 2016, separately.
Both the groups followed a tour programme including visit to the
wellness and spiritual centres in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Trivandrum,
Cochin, Neyyar (Kerala), Pondicherry and Chennai.
The Publicity Division of the Ministry organised following activities
for publicity and promotion and to market Yoga and its benefits
worldwide:
ÂCreative  of posters, Standees etc. to promote International Day of
Yoga have sent to India Tourism Offices – Domestic and Overseas
for production.
ÂThe  Ministry of Tourism re-printed ‘India – The Land of Yoga’
brochure, the soft copy of which is being sent to the India Tourism
Offices overseas for production/ distribution.
 ÂThe Ministry promoted International Day of Yoga through Social
Media.
6 July 2016

NEWS IN BRIEF
Travel Boutique Online takes strategic
equity in Deyor Camps
TRAVEL COMPANY
Travel Boutique Online has taken
strategic equity in Deyor Camps,
India’s first and only chain of branded
camps. Deyor Camps was founded by
Dheeraj Jain (Redcliffe Capital), Chirag
Gupta, Aakaar Gandhi and Gautam Yadav to
meet the demands of unorganiSed sector of
adventure travel market in India. The teams
of Deyor Camps and TBO will work closely
to sell campsites offered by Deyor Camps
through vast network of TBO.
Travel Boutique Online, backed by Naspers
is India’s largest B2B travel portal with more
than 19,000 travel agents who are actively
involved in selling their travel solutions.
TBO enables its partners to serve their
customers efficiently with the right pricing
and inventory. With strategic equity in
Deyor Camps, TBO will now create unique
advantage for its partners by enabling them
In a recent development at Travel Agents Federation of India
(TAFI), Praveen Chugh has elected as the new President of the
association for the new term. The elections were held during
22nd Annual General Meeting of Members of the association on 30th
June 2016 at The Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad. The new team was
elected for the post of four Office bearers and Managing Committee
Members through secret ballot.
Ministry of Culture (MoC) is responsible for conducting
Festivals of India (FoIs) abroad as part of focused strategy
for strengthening international cultural relations and
enhancing India’s soft power. This scheme was revived by
the Ministry in 2013. The events in Festival of India generally
include Dance, Music, Theater, Films, Food, Literary Festival,
Yoga demonstration, Folk Arts, Performing Arts, Exhibitions and
workshops etc. It may be noted that the main focus of a FoI is to
connect and enhance the perception of India in the minds of the
locals.
The Festivals of India are organized in various countries through the
Indian Missions situated there. In this endeavour, the autonomous
to sell branded campsites at more than 45
locations in India. This will also allow Deyor
Camps to further strengthen its leadership
position in camping and adventure travel
market.
Speaking on this, Ankush Nijhawan,
MD of Travel Boutique Online said, “We are
excited to announce our strategic equity
in Deyor Camps, as the value proposition
offered by Deyor Camps is unmatched in
this market.”
The startup also aims at expanding into the
neighbouring South and South-East Asian
market to leverage the demand for alternate
accommodation. Deyor has signed 3-year
exclusive contracts with all over 100 main
campsites in 45 locations and additional 75
campsites over the next month. The target is
to have 300 campsites by end of the year and
Praveen Chugh elected as the new President of TAFI
TAFI Office Bearers
ÂPresident  - Praveen Chugh
ÂVice  President - Pradip Lulla
ÂNational  General Secretary - Aditi
Bhende
ÂTreasurer  - Jayesh Tharani
Ministry of Culture
Managing Commitee
Members
ÂDarshan  Shah
ÂBharat  Shah
ÂRajat  Bagaria
Â4. Â Urvashi Dogra
Â5. Â Basheer Ahmed
also additional supply by aiding the process
of establishing campsites in new locations.
All the campsites are centred around
underlying adventure activities, which
become the focal point of the site, for
example, our campsite in Bir is focussed
around Paragliding as the main activity with
other adventure activities in and around
the campsite including Rock Climbing,
Rappelling, Trekking, etc.
ASSOCIATION
M/O Culture invites proposal for Festivals of India Abroad
organizations, private institutions/NGOs/Universities/individuals
contribute towards making Festivals of India a success.
All the agencies, which are desirous of participating in the Festivals
of India abroad, are requested to visit M/o Culture Website: http://
www.indiaculture.nic.in/ in this regard and to provide details of the
events/performances in the prescribed format within given time to
the Festival of India (FoI) Cell in the Ministry of Culture for inclusion
of artists/events in Festivals of India abroad. A brief concept paper
for each event along with link may also be included. Those artists
who have earlier applied and graded by the Ministry need not apply
again.
July 2016 7

TRAVEL BUSINESS
BREXIT
Brexit is an abbreviation of British Exit, which refers to
the June 23 rd , 2016 referendum by British voters to exit the
European Union. The referendum roiled global markets,
including currencies, causing the British pound to fall
to its lowest level in decades. The outcome has prompted
jubilant celebrations among Eurosceptics around Europe
and sent shockwaves through the global economy. Here
is the response from industry stakeholders what does the
UK’s exit from the EU mean for travellers.
Jai Kishan Kaparwan
What does the UK’s exit from the
EU mean for travellers?
Destination Britain
To Get Cheaper
Travel experts predict that, in the short
term, travel between Europe and the
U.K. is not expected to change, at least
until the breakup is formally negotiated over
the next two years. There may be hardly
any immediate effect on ease of travel, since
there are no changes in aspects like visa
processes.
It is probably in the next couple of years
that any further developments on this front
would play out.
For those planning a vacation in the future,
the exchange rates are expected to provide
for 5-7 percent savings in package costs.
However, industry experts are already
projecting uplifts for the UK’s inbound
business due to a weakening pound and
preliminary findings by IATA suggest that
international arrivals will increase as a
weaker pound has raised the attractiveness
and affordability of the UK relative to other
destinations. Over the past year, Britain has
enjoyed a surge in international visitors,
especially from the U.S. and Canada.
“Regardless of whether you believe that
Brexit was a positive or negative move
for the UK, there will undoubtedly be
repercussions for travellers in light of the
decision,” said Ross Veitch, CEO and
co-founder of Wego. “The UK Pound has
dropped 9.8 percent, with the value of the
pound to the dollar at 1.3415 in early trading
since the referendum result has become
clear, which means a UK holiday is going
to be cheaper for most foreign tourists
than it has been for about 20 years,” Veitch
continued.
“In-destination trip costs such as
accommodation, dining, entertainment and
shopping will allow significantly better value
for the foreign traveller after exchanging
their local currency,” he added.
According to, Aloke Bajpai, CEO and Cofounder
of India’s top travel aggregator ixigo.
com there could not be a better time to take
that dream trip to the UK than now. “Along
with the favourable impact of GBP fall and
aviation fuel rate drop, the British summer is
also expected to hold strong for another two
months. We have also seen an immediate
impact on a few flight routes between India
and UK with about 5-6 percent drop in the
fares.”
Impact on Incentive
Travel Business
The Brexit outcome has created a lot of
uncertainty and the long-term implications
on the incentive travel business are
unknown. Members of the Society for
Incentive Excellence (SITE) from around
the globe share their perspectives on how
the decision may impact the industry in the
short term.
“It is critical that our industry maintain a
keep calm and carry on approach in order to
minimise any potential impact on incentive
travel programs and other business events,”
cautioned Paul Miller, SITE Past President
and Managing Director, Spectra DMC
headquartered in London. “The democratic
process has taken place and should be
respected regardless of the outcome and
which side of the debate you sat. Britain
will work through this and will find a way to
work with the EU and vice versa. It’s really
business as usual and, in fact we are already
seeing an increase in RFPs from both the US
and Europe.”
“The UK is a significant source market for
many Asian countries and the referendum
results have undoubtedly created a level
Rajeev Kohli
President
SITE
of uncertainty for the Asian region,”
commented Rajeev Kohli SITE President
and Joint Managing Director, Creative Travel
Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, India.
He further said “The concerns are the
potential shift of outbound British groups
away from long haul destinations due to
the cost implications brought about by the
severe depreciation in the British Pound.
There is also the potential impact on
suppliers’ bottom line for groups already
contracted for the near future. Having said
this, we do find that British travellers tend
to be very resilient and, after a period of
adjustment, we should see a degree of
normalcy return.”
SITE board member Jennifer Glynn,
Managing Director, Meeting Encore Ltd. in
Canada shared a similar perspective. “Brexit
brings opportunity for some groups to get
better value on their programmes due to the
exchange rate and the expected economic
downtown. As a result it may increase
incentive programs considering UK in the
near future.”
8 July 2016

July 2016 9

EXCLUSIVE
National
Civil Aviation
Policy 2016
ÂÂ
Focused on Regional Air Connectivity
ÂÂ
Capping of Fares
ÂÂ
Moving From 5/20 to 0/20
In a significant move the cabinet has approved new Civil Aviation
Policy proposed by Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of
India recently. Apart from three major decisions; capping of fares
(on non-established air routes), moving from 5/20 to 0/20 norm and
revised Bilateral Traffic Rights; the policy introduces several changes
which are expected to encourage more connectivity and enable carriers
to expand operations faster. In an attempt to understand the impact
of the newly introduced policy Whereabouts interacted with the
industry stakeholders. Here are the excerpts…
10 July 2016

EXCLUSIVE
Rajesh Tiwari
This is the first time since
independence that an integrated
Civil Aviation Policy has been
brought out by the MoCA.
Elaborating on the policy the Minister of
Civil Aviation P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju
said, “The centre-piece of the policy is to
make regional air connectivity a reality.”
According to him, “The policy aims to take
flying to the masses by making it affordable
and convenient, establish an integrated
eco-system which will lead to significant
growth of the civil aviation sector to promote
tourism, employment and balanced regional
growth, enhance regional connectivity
through fiscal support and infrastructure
development and enhance ease of doing
business through deregulation, simplified
procedures and e-governance.”
The growth of airlines has been ensured
by introduction of lower fares. The
government’s Capping of Fares at Rs
2500 per hour for hereto forth unconnected
routes, revamping of airports and air-strips
etc. are going to boost the air traffic. Also,
the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) created by
this rate fixture (Rs 2500 per hour) would
be provided by the government to airlines
that will fly on these routes. This would
further inspire airlines to join hands and
provide services on non-established routes.
However this needs a clarification whether
this capping is applicable for last minute
bookings as well.
The much talked about point of the policy is
Abolishment of the 5/20 norm, where
a domestic airline is allowed to operate
internationally only after flying for five years
domestically and operate at least 20 aircraft.
The new formulation allows airlines, both
new and old, to commence international
operations if they operate 20 aircraft or
20 percent of total capacity, whichever is
higher, for domestic operations.
This move is very encouraging for the new
entrants and ensuring a catalyst effect for
travel and tourism as a whole.
In response, the airlines have welcomed
this step but according to them the 5/20
norm should be completely abolished to
ensure that Indian aviation achieves its full
potential. The move from 5/20 to 0/20, have
effectively translated to 3/20 as it will take at
least 3-4 years to have a 20 aircraft fleet.
The Bilateral Traffic Rights is another
measure that will push the Indian aviation
We are concerned with
the way the policy on
Hybrid Till was written.
While the draft NCAP
indicated that ‘tariff
at all future airports
will be calculated on a
Hybrid Till basis’, the
final policy states ‘future
tariffs at all airports will
be calculated on a hybrid
till basis,”
Conrad Clifford
industry to yield better. The open sky policy
would permit international airline partners
belonging to SAARC nations and countries
beyond 5000 kilometers radius to land and
operate flights within Indian territories. This
will increase options for travellers, making
the market more competitive and enhancing
further lowering of air fares- encouraging
the masses to fly internationally often.
Reacting to the NCAP International Air
Transport Association (IATA) has
expressed concerns regarding changes
made to the final Policy. “We welcome the
fact that the government has responded
to some of the feedback from the industry.
However, we are concerned with the way the
policy on Hybrid Till was written. While the
draft NCAP indicated that ‘tariff at all future
airports will be calculated on a Hybrid Till
basis’, the final policy states ‘future tariffs
at all airports will be calculated on a hybrid
till basis,” says Conrad Clifford, IATA’s
Regional Vice President for Asia Pacific.
“India needed an
aviation policy which
is strategically aligned
and supportive of PM’s
bold and inspiring vision
for the Indian economy.
Unfortunately, NCAP does
not provide the sector
with the institutional
infrastructure required
for long term growth.
Kapil Kaul
According to him, this change will impact
the basis for tariff determination for private
airports in India, and also signal AAI to
switch from the Single-Till approach used
currently, to the Hybrid-Till. This makes
AERA a toothless entity. Passenger charges
in India will increase, making air travel
more expensive. And it contradicts one of
the stated intentions of the NCAP to make
flying affordable.
“The NCAP has reduced economic
regulation in India to a single bullet point by
mandating Hybrid Till as the basis for tariff
determination, while being silent on other
critical aspects of economic regulation such
as the rate of return, regulatory asset base,
separation of airport assets and costs, etc.
says Clifford. “It ignores the conclusions
reached by AERA and the Ministry of
Finance after an extensive evaluation
that the single till is the most appropriate
approach for India, with no explanation
given for upturning AERA’s earlier order,”
he added.
July 2016 11

EXCLUSIVE
According to Centre for Asia Pacific
Aviation (CAPA), the National Civil
Aviation Policy does not provide the sector
with the institutional infrastructure required
for long-term growth. Noting that the policy
shows a clear missed opportunity and is a
significant disappointment given the MoCA
spent almost nearly two years in drafting
the new policy, the Centre for Asia Pacific
Aviation said it was expecting a more
structured and well-thought outcome in the
form of final policy.
“India needed an aviation policy which is
strategically aligned and supportive of PM’s
bold and inspiring vision for the Indian
economy. Unfortunately, NCAP does not
provide the sector with the institutional
infrastructure required for long term
growth. CAPA was expecting strategic
shift given the time and effort spent on the
“We do not directly
benefits from this move.
However, if lower rates
mean increased air traffic,
then the GDS industry
is also in for momentous
growth. More air traffic
means more seats selling
and ancillaries with
increased GDS usage,
which means more
facilitation and thereby
increased profit margins.
Anil Parashar
policy,” said Kapil Kaul, CEO-India Sub
continent, CAPA.
On the other side, not addressing key and
structural issues is a big disappointment.
The NCAP is ambitious about growth but
has not focused on creating structures for
managing growth, said Kaul.
“Without a clear infrastructure plan in place
– don’t know how job creation can happen,”
he said.
GDS Perspective
Elaborating on the NCAP as a whole
Anil Parashar, President & CEO,
InterGlobe Technology Quotient said that
in the wake of Civil Aviation Policy getting
implemented, it is not hard to predict what
the future has in store. Not only will the
aviation industry receive a growth boom
but the masses of the country also would
By subsidising the shorter
domestic routes for the
airlines, the government
has given a strong push to
regional connectivity by
capping fares and thereby
expanding the market A
cap of Rs 1200 for 30 min
flights and Rs 2500 for 1
hour flights should really
drive growth in a hugely
under-penetrated domestic
air market.
Sharat Dhall
experience a more convenient way of air
travel at affordable prices. Although, the
policy requires a significant amount of
time and resources to lay down the basic
infrastructure, but the intent being in place,
the aviation industry is set to receive the
required growth momentum.
While evaluating the policy from the
perspective of GDS industry Parashar says,
“We do not directly benefits from this move.
However, if lower rates mean increased air
traffic, then the GDS industry is also in for
momentous growth. More air traffic means
more seats selling and ancillaries with
increased GDS usage, which means more
facilitation and thereby increased profit
margins. As per the ministry, the policy is
going to drive in 300 million air passengers
annually by 2022.”
While elaborating on the issues that could
be important but ‘failed to see’ in this
policy Parashar said that the policy no
doubt offers a great impetus for the highly
potential Indian aviation market having
potential for this colossal move to reach its
peak of productivity. However, there are a
few unexplained parameters that need to
be detailed by the government. “One such
question in this context is the capping of
fares. Will the capping be applicable for
last minute bookings as well? Further, as
per CRISIL Research’s Report, the policy
does not throw light on the long-pending
structural issue of high sales tax on
aviation turbine fuel (ATF) and this can be
very crucial for long term planning of the
industry,” he explained.
OTA’s Perspective
The long-awaited new NCAP has some
path breaking changes that should unlock
regional connectivity as well as open up
opportunities for carriers entering the
Indian market. The abolition of the 5/20
rule has come as a respite to many of the
carriers that have entered the market in the
last few years and enable them to expand
their services internationally now.
By subsidising the shorter domestic routes
for the airlines, the government has given
a strong push to regional connectivity by
capping fares and thereby expanding the
market. A cap of Rs 1200 for 30 min flights
and Rs 2500 for 1 hour flights should really
drive growth in a hugely under-penetrated
domestic air market and catalyse economic
growth in tier 2 and tier 3 markets,” says
Sharat Dhall, President, Yatra.com.
12 July 2016

EXCLUSIVE
“The much-awaited National Civil Aviation
Policy has been approved and this is a
welcome step. This is expected to boost
regional connectivity. There will be
considerable shift to the airlines from the
railway and bus passengers. Thus, we see
an increase in airline bookings and a spurt
in flight movement from the Tier II and Tier
III cities. This clearly spells better business
opportunities for OTAs as well, says
Kousik Bhattacharya, Head-Marketing
and B2C Business, VIA. “The reduction in
flight cancellation fees should help boost
the trust of consumers and facilitate more
airline booking, especially for short-haul
destinations where the gap between railway
cancellation fees and air cancellation fees
has been extremely high till date.”
There will be
considerable shift to the
airlines from the railway
and bus passengers.
Thus, we see an increase
in airline bookings and a
spurt in flight movement
from the Tier II and Tier
III cities. This clearly
spells better business
opportunities for
OTAs as well.
Kousik Bhattacharya
Intrenational Airlines
The Bilateral Traffic Rights is another
measure that will push the Indian aviation
industry to yield better. The open sky policy
would permit international airline partners
belonging to SAARC nations and countries
beyond 5000 kilometers radius to land and
operate flights within Indian territories. This
will increase options for travellers, making
the market more competitive and enhancing
further lowering of air fares- encouraging
the masses to fly internationally often.
“The policy is very comprehensive, covering
22 areas of the Civil Aviation sector. The
National Civil Aviation Policy 2016 will
transform the aviation sector and greatly
benefit passengers. I fully endorse the
“The National Civil Aviation
Policy 2016 will transform
the aviation sector and
greatly benefit passengers.
I fully endorse the Prime
Minister when he indicated
that the Civil Aviation
Policy gives an impetus
to affordability, regional
connectivity, safety,
infrastructure, which is
vital for transforming India.
Tadesse Tilahun
FEEDBACK
The airlines have welcomed Moving From
5/20 to 0/20 norm but according to them the
5/20 norm should be completely abolished to
ensure that Indian aviation achieves its full
potential. The move from 5/20 to 0/20, have
effectively translated to 3/20 as it will take
at least 3-4 years to have a 20 aircraft fleet
Welcome Points
 ÂCapping of Fares
ÂMoving  From 5/20 to 0/20 norm
ÂRevised  Bilateral Traffic Rights
ÂAviation  Security, Immigration & Customs
ÂMaintenance, Â
Repair and Overhaul
ÂGround  Handling Policy
ÂAirport  PPP/AAI
ÂAviation  Education and Skill Building
Missing Points
ÂThe  Policy is silent on critical aspects of
economic regulation such as the rate of
return, regulatory asset base, separation
of airport assets and costs, etc.
ÂThe  Policy does not provide the sector
with the institutional infrastructure
required for long-term growth, and
Qmanaging growth
ÂThe  Policy does not throw light on the
long-pending structural issue of high
sales tax on aviation turbine fuel (ATF)
ÂThe  Policy is silent on formation of an
independent Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)
Prime Minister when he indicated that
the Civil Aviation Policy gives an impetus
to affordability, regional connectivity,
safety, infrastructure, which is vital for
transforming India,” says Tadesse
Tilahun, Regional Director- India Sub
Continent, Ethiopian Airlines .
“The Government has proposed to take
flying to the masses by making it affordable
and convenient. Systems and processes
which affect this sector will need to be
simplified and made more transparent
with greater use of technology without
compromising on safety and security”,
shares Tilahun. The growth in aviation will
create a large multiplier effect in terms
of investments, tourism and employment
generation, especially for unskilled and
semi-skilled worker. Enhance ease of doing
business through deregulation, simplified
procedures and e-governance.
July 2016 13

TRANSPORTATION
Etihad Cargo launches Luxury
Car Service for summer 2016
Etihad Cargo, the freight division of Etihad
Airways, has launched a unique, new travel
offer for guests who want to travel with their
luxury car over the summer period.
WH Desk
Drivers can enjoy up to 20 percent off
air cargo rates and their seat, when
they book in First or Business Class.
The cargo section for the national carrier
of the United Arab Emirates is also offering
additional services this year, arranging hotel
accommodation and having the car delivered
straight to the driver’s doorstep.
The offer is now available from Abu
Dhabi to European destinations including
Amsterdam, Berlin, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt,
Geneva, London, Manchester, Milan, Munich,
Paris and Zurich.
David Kerr, Senior Vice President of
Etihad Cargo, said, “Through our use of a
mixed fleet of aircraft, we have a range of
options that enable us to transport cars in
the hold including some of the new additions
to our fleet such as the Airbus 380s.
“We have several years of experience in
transporting vehicles for manufacturers to
luxury car markets around the world and
will aim to provide a first class service for
those clients who are looking to take their
vehicles with them to Europe during the
summer,” he added.
With upgrades and expansions having
been made to the passenger fleet, it is
possible to move vehicles in the bellyhold
of Etihad’s aircraft such as the Airbus 380.
This also provides guests with access to
The Residence, the world’s first three-room
private suite on a commercial aircraft, which
is served by a personal Butler.
For cities such as Dusseldorf and Zurich,
guests are able to experience the Etihad
Airways Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft,
which also features the airline’s highly
acclaimed next-generation interiors with
Business Studios and Economy Smart Seats.
The number of cars transported has been
steadily rising over the last few years
and Etihad Cargo carried hundreds of
automobiles during 2015. With additional
aircraft and supporting services being
added to the fleet this year, the cargo team
is aiming to increase those numbers during
2016.
The category of cars being transported
has included F1 cars, Super Sport cars as
well as luxury car brands such as Ferrari,
Porsche and Lamborghini. The airline’s
links to Formula 1 are extensive and are
underscored by the company’s sponsorship
of the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
To book a flight, drivers can call Etihad on
800 2324 to book their car and flight package
together.A customer agent will collect the
car and flight details as well as offer an
array of services; from door to door delivery
to export, custom clearance and hotel
accommodation. The special offer is running
from now until the 30 September 2016.
flydubai partners with Booking.co
flydubai is partnering with Booking.com,
adding a wide range of hotels and other
accommodation options to its website
flydubai.com.
WH Desk
Hotels.flydubai.com is powered by
Booking.com and is designed to help
passengers find the perfect stay
that suits their preference and budget from
over 954,000 accommodations world-wide.
Passengers will be able to browse other
guests’ reviews and book flexibly with a
range of payment options.
Commenting on this partnership, Ramesh
Venkat, Chief Information Officer (CIO),
flydubai, said, “With this website, we are
able to offer our passengers even more
options when travelling with flydubai,
making it easier for them to organise their
holidays or business trips. With Booking.
com, we will offer one of the largest
accommodation databases in the world and
we are pleased to be able to extend these
numerous opportunities to our customers.”
“Our aim at Booking.com is to connect
travellers from all over the world with
their ideal stay in the most seamless and
enjoyable way possible,” said Bryan
Batista, Head of Global Partnerships,
Booking.com. “Partnering with flydubai is
a great opportunity for us to engage with
even more customers flying in and out of
Dubai, enabling them to quickly find the
perfect accommodation that meets their
unique needs, whether they’re travelling for
business or pleasure,” he added.
flydubai’s website (flydubai.com) will offer a
personalised online experience by receiving
customised content based on a customer’s
location and previous interaction with the
site. Passengers can purchase tickets from
website, flydubai travel shops or through
travel partners. Further information and
details of the carrier’s car rental and travel
insurance services can also be found on the
website.
Singapore Airlines
allows bid for
seat upgrade
Singapore Airlines has introduced a
system that would allow a few select
passengers to bid online for a seat
upgrade a few days before their departure.
The city-state’s flag carrier, at its discretion,
will invite fliers who have booked economy
class seven days in advance to bid for its
premium economy class, which offers
relatively more comfortable seats, according
to the company’s website. Results of the
auction will be known 40 hours before the
scheduled takeoff.
“Invitations are made at Singapore Airlines’
sole discretion based on certain criteria and
combination of factors, which are dynamic,”
the airline said on its website. The system
may be extended to other classes at a later
stage, said Harry Chu, a spokesman.
Asia’s premium carriers including Singapore
Airlines and Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. are
facing intense competition from regional
low-cost carriers as well as major rivals
based in the Middle East. The report was
published in Bloomberg.
14 July 2016

WH Desk
TRANSPORTATION
IRCTC launches the Tiger Express
Tiger Express pans to create awareness
about wildlife in India and takes you
to two of Madhya Pradesh’s bestknown
national parks Bandhavgarh and
Kanha as well as Dhuadhar Waterfalls. If its
wildlife you are interested in, Tiger Express
is the train you need to get on to. The new
semi-luxury train is part of IRCTC’s latest
initiative to promote wildlife tourism in
India and, in particular, raise awareness
about tigers. Tiger Express will take you to
Madhya Pradesh’s most popular national
parks Bandhavgarh and Kanha known for
their tiger population. The train will also
include a stop at Dhuadhar Waterfall in
Bedhaghat near Jabalpur.
Tiger Express is a semi-luxury train, which
means you cannot expect the kind of service
you get in, let’s say, Palace on Wheels but
it will be a fully air-conditioned train. The
Tiger Express package includes a five
night-six day tour of the two national parks
and the waterfall. The journey begins from
and ends at New Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway
Station. Tiger Express will leave at 3 pm
from Safdarjung and will chug into Katni
railway station at 5.40 am the next day.
The semi-luxury train will offer two classes
of travel; AC First Class and AC Two-tier
Sleeper Class. AC First Class has cabins
with lockable doors with two or four beds.
Sleeper Class has curtains with four open
beds. What sets Tiger Express apart, though,
is the fact that it has shower cubicles and
even a dining car.
These rates are applicable only to Indian
citizens and are inclusive of the hotel
accommodation at Mogli Resorts with all
meals, water, local transfers, sightseeing
costs and safari fees. If you are a foreign
national you need to pay Rs 4,000 extra per
person to cover the safari charges, which
are higher for non-Indian nationals/
You can make you bookings by calling the
IRCTC toll free number: 1800110139
Itinerary
Day 1: Depart from Safdarjung Railway
Station.
Day 2: Arrive at Katni. Leave for
Bandhavgarh after breakfast and check into
the hotel. Head out for an afternoon safari;
return for dinner and overnight stay at
Bandhavgarh to check in to your hotel. After
an afternoon safari, you head back to the
hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Proceed to your stay in Kanha.
Head out for an afternoon safari. Retire for
the night.
Day 4: After breakfast, head out for a
morning safari.
Day 5: Head to Jabalpur to see the Dhuadar
Waterfalls. After high tea, you get on board
the Tiger Express.
Day 6: Arrival at Safdarjung railway station
at 3.50 pm.
The Tariff
AC First Class:
Single occupancy: Rs 49,500 per person
Double Occupancy: Rs 45,500 per person
Triple Occupancy: Rs 44,900 per person
Child with bed (5-11 years): Rs 39,500
AC Two-tier:
Single Occupancy: Rs 43,500 per person
Double Occupancy: Rs 39,000 per person
Triple Occupancy: Rs 38,500 per person
Child with bed (5-11 years): Rs 33,500
Super Fares’ by Air India for Unconfirmed
Bookings of Rajdhani Express
Offers all-inclusive one way fares on
select routes at a fare equivalent to that of
Rajdhani Express (1A)
WH Desk
Air India brings joy to passengers
who are unable to get confirmed
bookings on Rajdhani Express with
its Super Fares scheme. Under the scheme,
passengers can book the tickets 4 hours
prior to the flight departure at a fare which
is equivalent to that of Rajdhani Express
(1A). Passengers can avail an all-inclusive
economy class one way fare on select Air
India domestic routes starting June 26 th ,
2016 till September 30 th 2016.
Currently 21 Rajdhani Express trains run
across the Indian Railways Network and
close to 20,000 passengers travel with the
train on daily basis. However, thousands
of passengers are unable to get confirmed
tickets due to non-availability of seats. Air
India will bridge this gap as passengers can
book the tickets through Air India booking
offices or from www.airindia.com and
reach their destination at the same cost of
Rajdhani Express, but in much lesser time.
While booking the tickets through Air India
website, customers need to apply promo
code ‘SPOT’.
Air India to operate direct flights on
Bengaluru-Hubli route
The national carrier, Air India is set to
commence operations from Bengaluru to
Hubli on July 20 with an ATR-72-600 aircraft,
stated a release. Air India will operate
this service under its ‘Connect India’
programme. Flight AI 9509 on Bengaluru-
Hubli shall operate three days a week on
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The
flight will take-off from Bengaluru at
1545 hrs and reach Hubli at 1705 hrs. On the
return leg, flight AI 9510 will take-off from
Hubli at 1725 hrs to reach Bengaluru at
1835 hrs.
July 2016 15

IN CONVERSATION
In Conversation with
Sandeep
Dwivedi
The use of Digital wallet is
going to redefine the way
travel is sold and make
it an easier, safer and
seamless process. Going
cashless for business or
fun would be the new way
of booking travel. Sandeep Dwivedi
The frequent technological innovations have given
travel companies numerous opportunities and
floated a lot of expectations among them. During
last few years, the Indian travel industry has grown
exponentially. It has given birth to numerous
technological innovations which have, in response,
created a milieu of online travel related services.
However, keeping pace with technology is the most
challenging task as what was great a few years
ago, is almost obsolete today.
In an attempt to keeping pace with the technology
(new entrant or existing) and understand
its impact on the entire travel industry, we
approached the most advanced technology player
- InterGlobe Technology Quotient and had an
opportunity to interact with none other than
the Chief Commercial Officer of the company
Sandeep Dwivedi. Here are the excerpts of this
conversation.
Rajesh Tiwari
According to you which is the latest technology or
software that will leave its impact on the entire travel
industry in the year ahead? Is it a new entrant or existing
technology that will shape the way for more growth in
2016?
As per the latest technological developments the most influential
change is the introduction of e-Visa. Although, this was introduced in
the year 2014, but its expansion to include 150 countries worldwide
is causing the desired impact of connecting more and more inbound
tourists to the country, thereby benefitting the national tourism
sector.
Another important evolution in the field of technology is Smartphone
penetration and the resultant use of Digital wallet- not only as a
travel booker or surfer device, but also as a payer of funds. The 2016
is going to be an important year for online payments in the travel
sector. Although, Digital wallet is still making its presence felt in the
travel domain, Smartphone penetration is relatively low in India. As
per Vserv, India has over 160 million smartphone users and this user
base is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 26 percent from 2013 to 2017.
The interactions of these smartphone users with their devices is
generating vast amount of information. However, this information is
not yet being understood and utilised efficiently.
The use of Digital wallet is going to redefine the way travel is sold
and make it an easier, safer and seamless process. Going cashless
for business or fun would be the new way of booking travel.
Innovations in travel technology have floated a lot of
expectations among the small travel agents; however
where do we really stand at this point of time in terms of
reaching to the end users?
Although technological innovations have etched a new phase in
travel world but making them accessible to travel agents far and
wide has become a challenge. Reaching out to the small travel
agent needs a cumulative effort of the industry so that these new
introductions can be passed on to all travel agents and they can
service their customers with the best available options as well as
facilities.
16 July 2016

IN CONVERSATION
For the same purpose, InterGlobe Technology Quotient (ITQ) has
introduced numerous initiatives in the past. One such step was the
launch of soft skill trainings for travel agents across India, where our
trainers trained the travel agents and their frontline staff on various
skill development techniques. We also conduct networking sessions
where we introduce the latest technologically advanced products
that delivers superior quality of services once installed.
What is the current market scenario of travel technology
space in India?
The Indian travel market has grown exponentially in the recent
years. During the last few years, it has given birth to numerous
technological innovations which have, in response, created a milieu
of online travel related services. Presently, travel market is thriving
in the technology area and in order to suffice the necessities of the
domain, the GDS sector has also evolved abundantly. It has become
more user-focused which has made travel surfing and booking for
travel agents a far easier job. The advanced set of features has made
GDS smarter with time thereby contributing further in the area of
travel technology.
Which are the other countries leading in travel and
technology space, and where do we (India) stand? What is
the advantage/disadvantage we do have in India?
The increased penetration of Smartphone has become the key
estimator of adoption in travel technology. In the Asia Pacific, China
stands at the highest level of technology adoption as the country
hosts the largest population of Smartphone users in the region at
present. Its travel and technology space has also emulated the
technologically smart version to stay ahead in the present context.
But due to the slowing economy it will probably lose its superior
position in the coming years.
On the other hand, India is booming in the travel and technology
space. Multiple measures are being taken up in the regard to make
the industry more organised and profitable. As per the India Aviation
Report by KPMG and FICCI, India will emerge as the 3rd largest
aviation market by 2020. And in order to support this boom, efficient
technology should be in place. As a developing country, we have
immense potential to make our tourism market grow and flourish.
Have you noticed any latest trend in this space? What
role will be played by Smartphone and social media sites?
Travel is bought and sold every second of the day, and we see that
both online and offline reach out has become equally essential for
distribution. However recently with the increase in Smartphone use,
everything has become ‘mobile’. Apps, payments, shopping surfing
have become a matter of few clicks. We are presently living in an
age, where technological innovation has become crucial. As a result
of this, ‘smarter’ steps have been initiated to revolutionise products
and services in the industry. Today, Smartphone have turn out to be
essential tool for booking and surfing travel.
Also technology has offered an innovative way of experiencing travel
without moving an inch through virtual reality. Many organisations
have come up with ideas to push the reality a bit farther and helping
travellers to explore the pleasure of being in a faraway land, without
being present there in reality. And the remarkable thing is this trend
is gaining more and more acceptance with time.
Social media has become the medium of estimation and
presentation, now-a-days. A common man’s rich resource of
information who zeroes-in on a location based on the reviews on
social media channels. Needless to say, social media has also
become a strong advertising platform where travelers get their
information on trips and exclusive offers.
What are the latest initiatives or development at ITQ that
you would like to share with us?
Launch of skill development initiative in collaboration with CAP
foundation has been a big step for us. We have initiated this program
to train underprivileged children with skills required to begin a
career journey in the travel world. This program would benefit 300
students and help them build a brighter future for themselves. They
will be trained in 5 different regions across India and made ready for
the travel world.
We conduct ‘Student of the Year’ contest every year with an objective
to identify the best performing students in the travel domain and
give them a chance to begin their professional journey in the best
way possible. The entire process of online selection, evaluation and
nomination of the top performing students happen through a series
of tests that give these students an opportunity to analyze their
skills and knowledge. In addition, the exposure they get through
this contest is beneficial for them in terms of confidence and
professionalism.
Is there any new technology/updated version that may hit
the Indian market in near future from your end?
We are in the process of upgrading Travelport Smartpoint. The latest
version would further add to the technological evolution thereby
making the process of travel booking even more seamless for our
travel partners. The modified version will offer a futuristic interface
that will deliver exceptional travel business experience across
boundaries. It will be an one-stop shop travel booking platform
that will continue to offer updated content, ancillaries, images of
cabins and seats in a single window, accurate product description,
ancillaries provided within the fare and much more. In the age of
automation, Smartpoint will continue to offer exceptional services.
The important evolution
in the field of technology
is Smartphone
penetration and the
resultant use of Digital
wallet- not only as a
travel booker or surfer
device, but also as a
payer of funds. The
2016 is going to be an
important year for online
payments in the travel
sector.
Sandeep Dwivedi
Kindly throw some light on Travelport Rich Content &
Branding? Why is it attracting more and more airlines?
More than 150 airlines have selected Travelport Rich Content
and Branding within a short span of two years. This favoritism
is because Rich Content and Branding addresses certain key
challenges the travel industry faces today. It is a ground-breaking
technology product that enables airlines to display and market their
fares, ancillaries and brand proposition to travel agents as they
would on their own websites.
This provides airlines with greater control on how their content is
visually presented. With rich product descriptions and graphics, the
platform is designed to allow airlines to implement sophisticated
retailing techniques that align with their product branding in order
to drive sales of core fares, ancillary products and optional services
such as seats with extra legroom.
July 2016 17

STATE
Karnataka appoints Tourist Guides & Tourist Mitra
WH Desk
The Department of Tourism,
Government of Karnataka,
issued Guide Licence
and ID cards to new ‘Tourist
Guides’. The new ‘Tourist
Guides’, who have completed
the Comprehensive Guide
Training programme at various
universities, will be available at
various tourist destinations in
the state to provide information
to tourists. They play a very
important role in promoting the
destination and thereby, act as
the ambassadors of the state
and country.
The Department of Tourism
tied up with five universities
across the state to provide
comprehensive guide training
programme. The 111 students
completed the training
programme successfully and
were handed over the guide
licence and ID card on the
occasion.
WH Desk
Under this training programme
the selected candidates are
taught about tourist places, with
good communication skill and
friendly behaviour. Apart from
history of the places, students
are also trained in soft skills and
any one foreign language like
French, Russian and German for
seamless communication with
respective foreign tourists.
The designated Tourist Guides
will be given uniforms bearing
the new ‘Tourist Guide’ logo.
The ‘Tourist Guides’ will help
the tourist in understanding the
rich culture and history of the
places.
TOURIST MITRA
On the occasion, the second and
third batches of ‘Tourist Mitra’,
consisting of 298 home guards
were also inducted. 84 female
Tourist Mitras were part of this
induction ceremony. In the
second batch a total of 174 Home
Guards out of which 66 female
home guards were trained and
From Left: G. Sathyavathi, Vijay Sharma, Amar Kumar Pandey,
Dr. Rajkumar Khatri, Asagodu Jayasimha, Chairman, JLR, R.V. Deshpande,
Hon’ble Minister for L & M and Tourism, S.A. Hussain, Sampath Kumar,
M.S.Raghavan, Samad Prantiya and Krishna D. Udupudi.
in the third batch 123 home
guards out of which 18 female
home guards were trained under
this programme.
‘Tourist Mitra’ is a programme
by the Department of
Tourism and the Karnataka
State Tourism Development
Corporation (KSTDC) along
with the Home Department,
Government of Karnataka.
The first batch of 174 ‘Tourist
Mitras’, covering 13 districts
were deputed in November 2015
at selected tourist destinations;
Uttarakhand Tourism Board signs MoU with OYO
OYO will leverage its
expertise in transforming and
standardising hospitality realestate
units and make local
homestays better equipped to
suit the need of visitors and
tourists.
The partnership is geared
to develop tourism-related
hospitality ecosystem
in the state. In first phase of
this alliance, OYO has already
standardised 15 homestays
registered with UTDB. The
standardisation process, will
be followed by listing and
marketing these properties
on OYO’s well-established
channels.
Shailesh Bagauli, CEO, UTDB
said, “Uttarakhand Tourism
Development Board is happy to
partner with OYO, the leading
brand of hotel-networks in the
country. We are confident that
OYO’s expertise in standardizing
and marketing large inventories
to customers in different parts
of India will drive immense
value to this partnership. We
look forward to our joint efforts
contributing to increased
tourist influx and a better
stay experience for visitors to
Uttarakhand.”
Commenting on this
development, Abhinav Sinha,
CEO, OYO said, “We are very
proud to partner the efforts of
the Uttarakhand Government
in building a tourism-friendly
infrastructure while sustaining
local communities. The
pace of our efforts is aligned
towards ensuring that while
infrastructure is upgraded
and standardized, the local
ecosystem is not disrupted.
OYO has built deep expertise
in standardizing amenities
and guest-experience in the
unbranded hotels segment. This
tie-up gives us the opportunity
Shailesh Bagauli
CEO
Uttarakhand Tourism
to transfer these skills and
learnings to the state of
Uttarakhand.”
Uttarakhand is not only a
preferred destination for
families and adventuretravellers,
but also a focal
point for pilgrims on the Char
Dham Yatra. OYO-standardized
homestays are located in
a total of 472 tourist friendly
home guards are deputed to
provide proper safety and
security to the visiting tourists.
The 174 Tourist Mitras trained in
the second phase are deployed
in the following 12 districts:
Belagavi, Kalburgi, Koppal,
Dharwad, Chamrajnagar, Gadag,
Chikkaballapura, Kolar, Tumkur,
Davanagere, Ramanagar and
Chickmagalur. The third batch of
Tourist Mitras will be deployed
in the remaining 5 districts.
key towns like Dehradun,
Nainital, Mussoorie, Haridwar
and Haldwani. Unlike typical
homestays, these properties
are equipped with standardized
OYO amenities to provide
a predictable experience
to visitors. So, visitors can
check-in with the assurance
of flat-screen TV, free wi-fi and
complimentary breakfast as
well as CCTV cameras for their
security.
Using the OYO app, travelers
can create bookings in as little
as five seconds and three taps.
With a large network of 6000
hotels present across 180 cities
in India, OYO also enjoys strong
supply channels. It will connect
homestay owners with vendors
and facilitate the procurement
of best in quality products at a
reasonable price, making the
standardization process more
cost-effective.
18 July 2016

Madhya Pradesh Tourism
Development Corporation has
announced the 3 rd edition of the
Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart
from 14-16 October, 2016 at
the Hotel Lake View Ashok in
Bhopal.
WH Desk
The mart will be
inaugurated by
Honourable Chief Minister
Shivraj Singh Chouhan, along
with other dignitaries from
Madhya Pradesh and special
invitees from other states.
The three-day event in Bhopal
will promote the diverse
offerings of the state to
international buyers from some
of the top source markets such
as Europe, South East Asia,
Eastern Asia, the United
States, Canada, Australia,
Middle East, South
America, and South Africa.
Top Indian buyers are also
invited to attend the event.
Elaborating on the event
Hariranjan Rao, Managing
Director, MPSTDC said, “The
show promises to provide an
opportunity to tap into this
market by bringing a forum of
exceptional one-to-one business
Third edition of MPTM will be
held from 14-16 October
Hariranjan Rao
Managing Director
MPSTDC
meetings.” “The mart aims
to create a platform that will
offer the perfect environment
for the like-minded people
to interact and do business
together. Our goal is to ensure
each participant, whether its the
exhibitor, buyer or visitor, gets
value for their investment and
time spent,” he added.
Speaking on the same lines
Tanvi Sundriyal, Additional
Managing Director, MPSTDC
said, “The objective of this
event is to reinforce Madhya
Pradesh as a world-class
destination for Wildlife, Nature,
Heritage, Pilgrimage, Adventure
Tanvi Sundriyal
Additional Managing Director
MPSTDC
and MICE. The event offers
opportunity to meet, network,
and share expertise with
professionals who want to learn
about various products.”
The B2B Exhibition at MPTM will
have some of the top exhibitors
from Madhya Pradesh’s Wildlife
Segment, Hotels, Destination
Management Companies,
Conference Venues, Car Rentals,
Tour Operators, Heritage Hotels,
and Wildlife Parks etc. There will
be post event FAM Tours for the
buyers and media which will be
organised by Madhya Pradesh
State Tourism Development
Corporation.
STATE
The event hopes to enlist the
support of major travel – trade
and hospitality association
in India such as ‘Association
of Domestic Tour Operators
Association of India (ADTOI),
Adventure Tour Operators
Association of India (ATOAI),
Indian Association of Tour
Operators (IATO), Travel Agents
Association of India (TAAI),
Travel Agents Federation of
India (TAFI), Federation of Hotel
& Restaurant Association of
India (FHRAI), etc.
Madhya Pradesh is India’s
second largest state which is
amongst the most travelled
destinations in the country.
Madhya Pradesh is home to
some of India’s biggest tourist
attractions. From UNESCO
World Heritage sites and
cultural pursuits to the greatest
diversity of wildlife after Africa
offering discerning tourists a
fascinating range of touristic
experiences. Bhopal is the
capital of Madhya Pradesh
and is India’s 17th largest city,
home to numerous institutions
and installations which are of
national importance.
Tamil Nadu to attract over 15cr tourists by 2023
WH Desk
According to a report
published in Deccan
Chronicle, the state of
Tamil Nadu aims to attract
unprecedented number of
tourist to the state under
the Vision 2023. Elaborating
more on this Vellamandi
N. Natarajan, Minister for
Tourism, Government of Tamil
Nadu said, “More than 15 crore
tourists are expected to visit
Tamil Nadu by 2023, bringing
revenue of INR 10 crore. To
Vellamandi N. Natarajan
Minister for Tourism
Government of Tamil Nadu
achieve this target, under
the Vision-2023 document,
for promotion of tourism,
various development activities
at tourists’ spots have been
undertaken.” He revealed that
in the year 2014, the state had
been placed first for wooing a
large number of tourists.
Further elaborating on this,
Natarajan said the Chief
Minister had been interested to
promote tourism, particularly
for providing infrastructure
facilities for Yelagiri Hills,
considered ‘Poor Man’s Ooty’.
He said he would take up with
the Chief Minister the proposal
to convert the Andiyappanur
dam into a tourist spot.
Dr Nilofer Kafeel, Minister
for Labour Welfare, Government
of Tamil Nadu, in her speech
said that the Chief Minister had
ordered to undertake various
development works for the
promotion of tourism. She said
the Yelagiri Hills comprised a
boathouse, besides a waterfall
and temples for Lord Shiva and
Muruga.
July 2016 19

NEED TO KNOW
Adventure In Sikkim
Travellers embarking on a journey to Sikkim will have an opportunity to discover a
mystical wonderland of spectacular natural beauty. The panoramic perfection of the
snow-capped Himalayas, the heady scent of flower-bedecked meadows, the vibrant culture
and joyous festivals, the infinite variety of its flora and fauna makes it a holiday that is at
once fascinating and challenging. The crowning glory of Sikkim Mt. Khangchendzonga;
the third highest mountain in the world, River Teesta and Rangeet makes the state
paradise for the adventure lovers. This edition of Whereabouts brings more on this
fascinating state of India.
Compiled by WH Desk
Sikkim has much to offer all her
visitors. From popular home stays
where one can get a firsthand
experience of rural Sikkim to endless
possibilities for adventure sports, from
ancient monasteries and flamboyant
festivals to all the amenities of the modern
world. The State is naturally gifted having all
sorts of destinations and circuits required
for the tourists. Tourism in Sikkim have
impressive varieties of products, some of
them are Eco & Wildlife, Village Tourism,
Adventure, Wellness, Health, Yoga, Herbal
and Medical, Religious, Culture, Heritage,
Pilgrimage and many more.
Must Do Activities in Sikkim
River Rafting
From gentle rides through amazing
mountain landscape to thundering rapids
that only the most experienced rafter can
navigate, river rafting on the Teesta can
be the most adrenaline pumping adventure
ever. Meandering down the rough and
rugged mountain river is a great way to
enjoy both nature and adventure. The
riverbanks have deep forests, with some
patches of terraced cultivation, and small
villages. Plenty of white sandy beaches
exist, offering good campsites. Rapids of
classification two to four are interspersed
with placid floats, making rafting an
enjoyable experience.
A trip down the river also allows you to take
in the beauty of the countryside. Beginners
as well as experienced adventurers can seek
the assistance of the Department of Tourism
and travel agents for arranging river rafting
trips. Prices are generally reasonable,
and will include food, equipment,
lifejackets, helmets, an expert guide, and
accommodation. Most of these have good
riverside camps, and are well-frequented
by organised rafting groups during peak
season.
20 July 2016

NEED TO KNOW
Trekking
Sikkim offers some of the finest trekking
experience in the Himalaya. The state’s vast
unspoiled mountain range is a trekker’s
delight and its Barsey Rhododendron
Sanctuary passes through forests of silver
fir, hemlock, magnolia and rhododendron
with a view of Kangchendzonga peaks in the
background.
The Dzongri- Goecha La Trek is the
most popular trek in Sikkim and famed for
great mountain views, a floral spectacle in
summer, bird and views of pristine forest.
The trek to Green Lake, the base of Mt.
Kangchendzonga on the Zemu glacier in the
North Sikkim is the most enchanting of all
treks in this area with a variety of flowers
such as rhododendrons, primulas and blue
poppies. Trek to this route needs a trekking
permit from Tourism Department after
getting clearance from Defense, Ministry of
Home Affairs, New Delhi.
Some of the popular and recommended
trek routes in Sikkim are; Monastic
Trek, Rhododendron Trek,
Khangchendzonga Trek, Coronation
Trek, Khedi Trek, Singalila Trek,
Samartek Trek, Rinchenpong/Soreng
Trek, Himalayan Trek (South Sikkim),
Tosar Lake Trek (North Sikkim) and
Tendong Hill Trek.
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking is another adventure that
has been recently introduced in Sikkim
and the state is fast becoming a favourite
destination for mountain bikers. There are a
number of mountain bike routes throughout
the state. While some are ideals for a
technical mountain biking experience, other
routes offer landscape to ride through.
Currently there are a number of new
routes that have been introduced in
Sikkim:
ÂGangtok- Â Rumtek- Sang- Sirwani- Temi-
Damthang- Rabong- Kewzing- Tashiding-
Yusum- Pelling- Dentam- Rinchenpong-
Soreng- Sombaria- Jorthang- Namchi-
Rangpo
ÂGangtok- Â Phodong- Rangrang- Dikchu
Makha- Sirwani- Temi
ÂGangtok- Â Rumtek- Sangh- Sirwani- Temi-
Namchi- Jorethang- Melli
ÂGangtok- Â Rumtek- Sang- Sirwani- Temi-
Namchi- Namthang- Rangpo
Other Mountain biking routes in
Sikkim:
ÂRangpo- Â Rhenock- Rongli-
Barapathing- Pakyong- Ranipool-
Gangtok-Rumtek-Sang- Temi-Ravang-
Tashiding-Pelling-Khechopalri
Lake-Yuksom-Rabong-Dikchu-Mangan-
Lachung-Yumthang and back.
Yak Riding
Yak Riding is another popular and exciting
experience in Sikkim. Around 35 km
from Gangtok at an altitude of 12,310 ft is
the ethereally beautiful Tsomgo Lake.
Colourfully decorated Yaks with woolen
knitwear over the horns and forehead
and strings of bells around the necks are
ready to take you for a ride around the
lake or go up the mountain. The Tourism
and Civil Aviation Department as well as
private travel agencies on prior booking
also organises Yak Rides in Dzongri, in West
Sikkim, a popular trekking point.
Bird Watching
Sikkim is rich in avifauna and is considered
to be a birdwatchers paradise. Its avian
population extends to almost 550 species.
The climate varies between the tropical
heat of the valleys and the alpine cold of
the snowy regions. The altitudinal zones
of vegetation range from tropical, sub
tropical, temperate to Alpine. In some
places only 10 Kms in a direct line separate
the warm valleys from perpetual snow.
The telescoping of terrain has created
marked altitudinal zones in the humidity,
rainfall, climate and vegetation. This factor
is responsible for the great variety and
abundance of the resident bird life, making
this area arguably one of the richest areas of
its size anywhere in the world.
State’s BirdWest Sikkim offers great
birding opportunities. Barsey, located at
3300 m, on a massive ridge covered with
July 2016 21

NEED TO KNOW
protected forests of Silver Fir, hemlocks,
magnolia, and Rhododendrons is one of
the best birding areas in Sikkim. Around
Pemayangste and the nearby village of
Pelling there are several excellent birding
sites and hikes. Some important species like
the Maroon-Backed Accentor, Redfaced
Liocichla etc are found around
these forests.
Cuisine in Sikkim
The state’s cuisine is very popular across
the country. Dishes like Thukpa and
Momo have become preferred street foods
in other parts of the country. But Sikkimese
cuisine is much more than just Momos
and Thukpa, with every community having
their own special way of cooking, using
ingredients typical to them. This results in
a wide variety of dishes, each with a unique
taste and flavour.
Kinema, a fermented soybean food, rich
in protein and with a unique flavour is
eaten with rice while Gundruk and Sinki
are two traditional fermented vegetable
products which are sun dried after
fermentation and stored for consumption.
These are later used for soups, curries and
pickles.
Chhurpi, a fermented dairy product
prepared from cow milk with a mild sour
taste is used for making soups and Achar.
It is often used with Ningro, a wild fern to
make a most exotic combination.
Accompanying the food often is Chaang, a
fermented cereal-based alcoholic beverage.
It is sipped from a bamboo receptacle using
a thin bamboo pipe. The receptacle which
has millet in it is topped with warm water
a few times until the millet loses its flavour.
No visit to Sikkim is complete till you try
this atleast once.
Entry Formalities
Foreigners must obtain Inner Line Permit
(ILP) to visit Sikkim. These can be obtained
from all Indian Missions, Sikkim Tourism
Offices at New Delhi, Kolkata, District
Magistrates Office of Darjeeling, Siliguri, and
Rangpo on the strength of an Indian Visa.
The 30 days duration Permit is issued on the
spot without any delay provided photocopies
of the passport and visa along with two
pass port photos of the applicants are made
available. The permissible duration of the
stay for foreign tourists is 30 days initially.
For those interested in going for trekking in
the interior region of the state, the Tourism
and Civil Aviation issues Protected Area
Permit (PAP) at Gangtok which is available
for certain specified area for groups
consisting of two or more foreigners subject
to condition that the trekking programme is
arranged through a registered travel agency.
Do’s & Dont’s
DO’S
ÂAlways  travel with a guide
ÂVegetation  is fragile; follow route
ÂRespect  local culture by taking permission
before taking photographs
ÂBe  aware of the customs and manners and
culture of the local people
ÂIt  is customary to leave a donation at
a monastery and to circle shrines in
clockwise direction
DON’TS
ÂDon’t  disturb wildlife or its habitat
ÂDon’t  buy endangered species or antiques
ÂDon’t  smoke, drink alcohol or talk loudly
near sacred places
ÂDon’t  pluck plants or flowers
Reaching Here
Sikkim is well connected by airways,
railways and roadways. In spite of being
a hilly state, transportation of Sikkim is
comfortable and more frequent to enjoy the
ride on the world’s most beautiful valley.
Airways: The airport located nearest to
Sikkim is Bagdogra Airport of West Bengal
which is only 124 Kms away from Gangtok.
India’s national carrier, Indian Airlines
including almost all other domestic airlines
such as Jet Airlines, Air Deccan run regular
flights from the important cities of India
such as Kolkata, Delhi etc.
Bagdogra is connected with Gangtok by
daily helicopter service operated by Sikkim
Tourism development Corporation and it
will take only 20 minutes to reach Gangtok
from Bagdogra. This helicopter service is
subjected to the weather conditions.
Railways: New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri
are the two rail stations nearest to Sikkim
located in West Bengal. NJP is 125 Kms and
Siliguri is 114 Kms from Gangtok and is
well connected to all the major cities. Ticket
reservation facilities are available from
Sikkim Nationalised Transport office in all
working days.
Roadways: The lifeline of Sikkim, which
is National Highway 31A connects Gangtok
with Siliguri and this picturesque highway
runs through the lush green forests along
the bank of river Teesta on one side and
sky touching mountain ranges of Eastern
Himalaya on other side.
Sikkim Helicopter
Service
Height of Luxury: For the more
discerning travellers, Sikkim Tourism
presents the Sikkim Helicopter Service from
Gangtok to Bagdogra Airport and back. The
five-seater Helicopter offers an exclusive
mode of transport not merely enabling
connecting flights, but also to see Sikkim
from an entirely new view.
22 July 2016

July 2016 23

CAPE TOWN
South Africa’s Mother City
Beautifully tended with breathtaking beauty Cape Town
blazes with colour from the brightly painted facades
of the Bo-Kaap, the contorting singing musicians at
Victoria and Albert Waterfront to the city’s lovely
manicured hotels and the natural contrast of the greengrey
Table Mountain rising majestically against a
vibrant sky and a cool blue coast. This South African
metro is alight with possibilities for the visitor in search
good clean fun. This edition of Whereabouts brings
more on this fascinating City of South Africa.
Compiled by WH Desk
Cape Town is home to the world-famous Table Mountain and
Robben Island. With an international airport and busy port,
the city is a bustling metropolis that is particularly popular
with international travellers for its cultural mix, urban
sophistication and stunning scenery.
A top attractions itinerary for the Mother City ought to include a trip
up the aerial cableway to the top of Table Mountain, a New 7
Wonder of Nature; a boat trip to Robben Island, where worldrenowned
humanitarian Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18
years; a tour of the Winelands in Durbanville or Stellenbosch;
a sightseeing trip along Chapman’s Peak Drive; a relaxing
afternoon at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront (V&A
Waterfront); and a drive to Simon’s Town, where a breeding
colony of African penguins lives on Boulders Beach.
Cape Town is the ideal prelude to a South African itinerary, lying
as it does only 40km from the Cape of Good Hope. The soaring
contours of Table Mountain, dominates the skyline and infuses the
city with a sense of glowing optimism. Nothing quite prepares you
for Cape Town’s beauty and this is where one can feel perfectly in
tune with the new South Africa.
Here, one strongly feels the pulse of the past though young by
Indian standards this over 360-year-old city has a number of
historic buildings and sites such as the oldest synagogue, the oldest
continuously occupied building (The Castle of Good Hope) and
the oldest garden (The Company Garden) in South Africa. There
are many art galleries, museums, restaurants and bars that add to
its charm and vibrancy.
Must-Visit, See and Do
Discover Cape Town in Unique and Interesting Ways
ÂTake  the cable car up to the top of Table Mountain for a bird’s eyeview
of the city. For outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, you can
even hike up to the top.
ÂWhile  atop the majestic Table Mountain, don’t take the beaten path
back down. Instead, you can abseil off or take a ride down the zip
line.
ÂA Â heliflip over Cape Town is an exciting option and offers stunning
aerial views of the city, where the bustle of city-life is perfectly
juxtaposed with the magnificence of nature.
ÂEnjoy  an open-air experience of Cape Town and the Cape
Peninsula while being chauffeured around in a vintage World War
II motorbike with a sidecar, wearing cool retro biking gear.
ÂUnder  the looming Twelve Apostles and Lions Head, with views
out across the turquoise-coloured sea, Camps Bay is one of Cape
Town’s chic and undeniably pretty suburbs. Incidentally, another
recommended trek is to the summit of Lion’s Head, particularly on
a full moon night.
ÂSwim, Â surf, sunbathe, play a sport or simply hang out at the Blue
Flag beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay.
24 July 2016

WHEREABOUTS
Art, Culture, Heritage & Nature
Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in art, be steeped in
nostalgia or simply allow yourself to be taken over by the colourful
vibe in the city, Cape Town offers you the apt setting. Not far from
V&A Waterfront is Nobel Square where larger-than-life statues
of South Africa’s four Nobel Prize winners including Nelson
Mandela are great photo opportunity for visitors. The Two Oceans
Aquarium at the Waterfront is a magnet for kids.
Explore City Bowl, Cape Town’s commercial heart, burrow into
the leafy Company’s Gardens and check out the Victorian and Art
Deco architecture. People from all walks of life come together at the
Old Biscuit Mill to share experiences, enjoy art, food and hearty
laughter at this market.
There’s even some great distractions for kids including Two Oceans
Aquarium at the Waterfront; Ratanga Junction which a theme
park with thrilling rides and a sense of fun, and the MTN Science
Centre that makes science fun and accessible to kids.
Apart from all of these attractions you have events taking place
around the year, which you should definitely check out for on your
trip. Food and Wine Festival will be underway in Hermanus in
early August and in early October will kick-off the Two Oceans
Whale Festival there. While September will see Cape Town
celebrate Creative Week, Cape Town International Kite
Festival will take-off from 31st October to 1st November.
Nightlife in Cape Town
Cape Town’s energy is unrivalled and the day does not end at
sunset. Revel in some of the most happening party places across
the city. From old school bars and beerhouses to new cool sports
bars and comedy clubs, Cape Town has it all. If you are looking to
pull an all-night party, Long Street is the place to be. There are
bars, restaurants, jazz lounges, clubs – you name it, everything is
available on Long Street which is at the heart of the Capetonian’s
passion for food and partying.
Camps Bay sports some of the trendiest places in Cape Town
to see and be seen at. Victoria Road in Camps Bay is Cape Town’s
sunset capital where on a breezy summer evening you can perch
yourself at one of the tables out on pavements and platforms in
restaurants, and sip on cocktails while witnessing a spectacular
view of the sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean. If you want the
merriment to keep going even after the last of the parties have
winded down, then make your way to the Grand West Casino.
July 2016 25

WHEREABOUTS
Shop Till You Drop
Cape Town shopping and its suburbs can be an exciting experience.
For the international tourist, shopping in Cape Town is relatively
inexpensive due to the favourable exchange rate and comparatively
low production costs. Shop till you drop at the well-designed malls
such as the Victoria Wharf at the V&A Waterfront, The Cape
Quarter at Green Point, The Cavendish Square in Claremont
and Tygervalley Shopping Centre.
You can also get the best of your Jewellery designs here as many
of South Africa’s most artistic goldsmiths and Jewellery designers
reside in Cape Town. Antique shops, craft markets, flea markets
and art galleries thrive in Cape Town. Pan African Market in Long
Street brims with trinkets and artifacts from across the continent.
Eating Out
South African food rejoices the country’s rich cultural heritage and
the natural bounty of plants, seafood and meat; the cuisine is rich in
colour, flavor and taste. The country has mastered the art of serving
delectable cuisine that suits every mood and palette. Majority of
the restaurants in Cape Town will serve vegetarian and vegan food
keeping in mind the growing Indian tourist arrivals in the country.
Eating out in Cape Town is a pleasure as it is known as one of the
world’s finest culinary capital. Stroll down Kloof Street, the
beachfront at Camps Bay, V&A Waterfront and Parklands
where you will come across multi cuisine restaurants from Middle
Eastern, Mexican, Italian, Thai, Continental, Sea food and
Indian.
The Test Kitchen is Africa’s best restaurant and has made it to
various World’s Best lists. Owner and head chef, Luke Dale-Roberts
applies his inventiveness to bring Nouvelle Latin cuisine reimagined
with a South African touch. La Colombe is yet another widely
acclaimed and wildly popular restaurant nestled in the Western
Cape. Set in the tranquil luxury of the Constantia Uitsig Wine Estate,
La Colombe is a must visit experience.
Accommodation
Being one of the world’s prime leisure destinations, Cape Town has a
wide range of accommodation available.
Luxury Hotels in Cape Town
ÂThe  Taj, Cape Town
ÂThe  One and Only Cape Town
ÂCape  Royale Luxury Hotel
ÂThe  Table Bay at Waterfront
ÂThe  Westin
ÂManna  Bay, 12 Apostles
Budget Hotels in Cape Town
ÂThe  Fritz Hotel
ÂProtea  Hotel Cape Castle
ÂAdderley  Hotel
ÂHoliday  Inn Express
ÂLady  Hamilton Hotel
ÂTsogo  Sun Waterfront
Need to Know
Best Time to Visit: The very best time to visit Cape Town
is during the summer, when the weather’s great and there are
activities and events galore. Winter is less crowded with visitors,
and there is still plenty to do.
Get Around: Self-drive is a good option and hiring a vehicle will
give you the freedom to move around at will. However, additional
transport options (buses, trains, taxis, minibuses) are available.
What to Pack: Cape Town is hot and dry (and sometimes very
windy) in summer (November to February). In winter, the rainy
season, make sure you take rain-resistant gear, and warm jerseys or
jackets for the evenings.
Getting Here
Cape Town is a popular long-haul destination and there are daily
flights into Cape Town International Airport from numerous overseas
destinations. The Mother City is well-serviced by domestic fights.
You can also drive to Cape Town on good roads from South Africa’s
other cities.
Contact
Cape Town Tourism Information
Tel: +27 (0)21 405 4500
Email: info@tourismcapetown.co.za
26 July 2016

Think Strawberries celebrates anniversary along with
rapid growth, client retention and market expansion
Think Strawberries is a leading travel
representation company offering sales,
marketing, public relation and media
services in India and the Middle East.
Jai Kishan Kaparwan
NTO
The company is a uniquely positioned,
dynamic venture of some of the finest,
most high profile travel professionals,
along with a talent pool of handpicked senior
achievers from the top corporates. It’s aim
is to provide a differentiated edge, aligned
to cross-industry best practices, as its the
only company offering 360-degree travel
representation services. The company
also offers digital marketing and planning,
communication and creatives, travel trade
events and exhibitions and overall brand
development services.
Think Strawberries was founded with
the combined vision and idea of its cofounder,
Amit Kishore, and a board of
international travel experts to create a new
kind of enterprise; one dedicated solely
to be a market and thought leader in the
travel representation business. Over the
last 10 years, digital, social, and mobile
technologies have changed how and how
much people travel. The result of this
transformation is a new era in travel where
India has become the global travel giant.
India is currently the world’s fastest growing
outbound market and in absolute numbers
it is second only to China. It is predicted
that India will account for nearly 30 million
outbound tourists by 2018.
“We built Think Strawberries to channel
the India outbound market which is on
an upward surge. Tourism boards, theme
parks or hotels, are all looking to invest in
India’s outbound traffic and we are there to
define their business and its opportunities
in the Indian market. Our goal and vision
is finding shape thanks to our customers
and partners, who, like us, seized the
opportunity to put Think Strawberries on top
of the pile. The vision of our company is to
continue to innovate and grow in the travel
space,” says Amit Kishore, co-founder,
Think Strawberries.
Munnmunn Marwah, COO, Think
Strawberries, comments, “Our success is
testament to Think Strawberries innovation,
client-centric philosophy, which is
supported by outstanding teams for sales,
marketing and PR. In the structure of people,
Amit Kishore
Co-founder
Think Strawberries
process, and technology, we have become
the leader which have provided critical
foundation to our future successes.”
THE THINK STRAWBERRIES
SUCCESS STORIES
Think Strawberries has been representing
Taiwan Tourism Bureau since 2011, and
Taiwan has shown a tremendous growth
from 18,000 passengers in 2011 to 32,000+
passengers in 2015. This has resulted in
more China Airlines flights between India
and Taiwan.
Jordan Tourism Board has been with Think
Strawberries since 2014, and till April
2016 the numbers have been very positive.
Maldives is another success story – they
have signed with Think Strawberries for
the third year consecutively in 2016, and
New Discovery in Petra
This discovery was recently reported
by archaeologists Sarah Parcak and
Chris Tuttle in a study published
in The Journal of American Schools of
Oriental Research (BASOR). Lina Annab,
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities stated,
“The historic discovery of something this
monumentally significant brings us to a
state of pride, joy and awe. The fact that
technological advancement has given us a
glimpse into our history is a sign that we
must further invest in the future to be able to
see and uncover our past.”
Munnmunn Marwah
COO
Think Strawberries
the numbers to Maldives are registering a
14-16% growth year on year. Yas Island and
Ferrari World are with Think Strawberries
since 2015 and continue to be best-sellers in
the Indian market.
“We deliver where it counts, if you are a
destination, your numbers will increase;
if you are a hotel, we promise increase in
room nights and if you are a theme park, we
will increase your ticket sales. We believe
in hard-core sales and all our marketing
and PR activities tie in with this ultimate
goal. The company has succeeded in
positioning itself as a model for the travel
industry in India and the sub-continent,
as well as in expanding its operations to
several other parts of India and abroad; and
in consolidating a world class corporate
culture,” says Marwah.
Elaborating on this she further said, “This
discovery brings us closer to our heritage
and tounder standing the prosperous
civilization of the Nabateans. With that
said, we’re proud to further look into drone
technology, satellite imaging and excavation
ventures in hopes of bringing more of
Jordan’s hidden treasures to light. We’re
also very excited to see the enthusiasm with
which this amazing finding was welcomed
globally, hoping it bodes well for Jordan’s
tourism industry.”
July 2016 27

NTO
South Korea’s Boryeong Mud
Festival starts from July
One of the most popular summer
festivals of South Korea will be held on
the west coast at Daecheon Beach Mud
Plaza in Boryeong begins from 15th
July for ten days.
WH Desk
The Boryeong mud, which is rich
in mineral component is collected
from the yellow sea. The mud has
elements, which prevent skin aging.
Every year, this festival attracts youth
from different parts of the world. The
side events like mud bath games, mud
wrestling, swimming in the mud mega
tub and the vibrant music nights offer the
visitors to have fun.
Visitors feeling particularly energetic
can try the marine mud-training course,
whilst those looking for something more
chilled can relax in the mud massage
zone. In the evening, music and fireworks
continue the party on the beach.
According to Byungsun Lee, Director,
Korea Tourism Organization, India, “The
Balboa Park extends summer
hours and offerings
WH Desk
From pandas and koala bears at
its iconic zoo, to a remarkable
collection of museums and gardens,
this oasis in the heart of the city has
been a vibrant part of San Diego culture
for a hundred years. First and foremost,
Balboa Park is a horticultural marvel:
the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose
Garden alone has more than 130 varieties
of roses.
This summer Balboa Park museums
come alive after 5 p.m. Adding to the
evening bustle of organ pavilion concerts,
dance and theater performances, and
restaurant activity, numerous institutions
Boryeong Mud Festival is one of the
offerings from the land of festival, South
Korea. It attracts the biggest number
of foreign visitors during the season. I
would like to invite the Indian visitors to
experience this enjoyable and exciting
mud experience in South Korea this
summer.”
The admission tickets to experience
zone range from INR 450 - INR 600
approximately. The Festival is open to
all from 10:00 am till 6:00 pm at the
Daecheon Beach and Downtown area.
The beach is easily commutable through
train and intercity buses or car from
Seoul.
in the park will offer extended hours on
select evenings till Sept. 2, 2016.
The following museums will stay open
until 8 p.m. on Fridays: Japanese
Friendship Garden, Mingei International
Museum, San Diego Art Institute, San
Diego Automotive Museum, San Diego
History Center, San Diego Museum of
Man, San Diego Natural History Museum,
and The San Diego Museum of Art.
The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center
may begin extended hours July 1. The
Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA)
will continue to offer extended evening
hours on Thursdays. On Fridays from
May 6 through Sept. 2, 2016, four or more
food trucks will park in Balboa Park’s
centrally located Plaza de Panama from
5 to 9 p.m.
The park will offer additional
entertainment, photo booths, games and
other activities, some on a discounted
basis. The Old Globe Theater in Balboa
Park and San Diego Public Library will
host a series of public events related to
First Folio.
New riverbank
development enhances
accessibility in Adelaide
The $6bn redevelopment of the
Adelaide Riverbank precinct which
includes the Bio-Medical City, Adelaide
Convention Centre and Adelaide Oval
projects is about to enter its next phase
with works to commence in August
on the 25,000sq metre Festival Plaza
development.
WH Desk
The project site, located a oneminute
walk east of the Adelaide
Convention Centre will see the
entire Riverbank region linked to become
the most connected and easily accessible
business, events and entertainment
precinct in Australia. All Riverbank
facilities as well as 3,500 hotel rooms are
situated within 5 minutes’ walk of the
Adelaide Convention Centre situated in
the heart of the Riverbank Precinct.
This new phase will include a $220m
redevelopment of the plaza around
the Festival Theatre - transforming
one of the city’s most important public
spaces into Adelaide’s premier meeting
and entertainment hub including an
expansion of the existing green space in
response to public consultation. Wide
promenades will connect major city
streets to the plaza, the Adelaide Oval
footbridge and through to the Convention
Centre.
In addition to the Riverbank precinct
development, the Adelaide City Council
in conjunction with the State Government
has announced a $15m upgrade to the
laneways connecting the Riverbank to
the famous Adelaide Central market.
In a move that further enhances the
accessibility and ease of movement
around the city, the largest undercover
fresh food market in the Southern
Hemisphere offering fresh local produce
as well as international delicacies and an
array of dining options will be linked with
a pedestrian and cycle friendly pathway
through 5 laneways to the Riverbank.
Speaking on the development, Damien
Kitto, CEO, Adelaide Convention Bureau
said, “Adelaide’s Riverbank precinct will
surprise and delight those new to the city
and those who have not visited in some
time. It is nationally unique in its ease
of accessibility and walking distance
proximity to key city attractions and
venues as well as a multitude of boutique
bars, restaurants and major hotels.”
28 July 2016

NTO
New York City to host IGLTA’s 2019
Annual Global Convention
WH Desk
NYC & Company, New York
City’s official destination
marketing organization, and
the International Gay & Lesbian Travel
Association (IGLTA) announced that
New York City will host IGLTA’s 2019
Annual Global Convention, the premier
educational and networking event for the
lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender
tourism industry. More than 600
participants are expected to attend the
three-day convention in spring 2019.
“In 2019, New York City will celebrate the
50th anniversary of Stonewall and IGLTA
has chosen to share this celebration
with the global LGBT travel industry,”
said IGLTA Board Chair Juan Julia. “Our
members will be able to attend a great
conference and also experience New
York City’s incredibly vibrant LGBT
community. Rich with history and the
cachet of being the city that never sleeps,
there’s never a shortage of things to do
in New York City, whether you’re looking
Taiwan remains a youth magnet
for the new generation willing to
understand and uncover the gem
that resides in its geography. The
dazzling metropolis of Taipei is home
to a number of experiences - both
youthful and cosmopolitan.
WH Desk
The exotic country of Taiwan is
adventurous and offers a mosaic
of scenic beauties to fulfill the
quest for travelling pursued by young
travellers. Young educated youth with an
easy access to technology and available
information find the Taiwanese cities
fascinating to travel and engage in a
plethora of youthful activities.
Explore the iconic landmark of Taipei
101, shop in the bustling night markets
or go clubbing in the sprawling clubs to
soak in the infectious vibe of the city that
never sleeps. Taipei 101 Mall features a
world class shopping destination to shop
for luxury goods, fine dining and fashion.
for theater, film screenings, museums,
restaurants or world-class gay bars and
clubs.”
The announcement comes on the heels of
New York City’s annual Pride celebration,
which took place June 19-26 and is
among the most popular in the world.
Each year, millions of people participate
in events including The March, PrideFest,
Dance on the Pier, and The Rally.
“We are thrilled that in 2019, just months
before the 50th anniversary of the
historic events at Stonewall, New York
City will be home to IGLTA’s Annual
Global Convention,” said Fred Dixon,
President and CEO of NYC & Company.
“We look forward to showing IGLTA’s
membership exactly what makes New
York City the most vibrant and welcoming
LGBT destination in the world.”
Taiwan remains a must-visit
destination for young travellers
Steeped in tradition and culture, Taipei is
home to famous monuments, landmark
sites and premier centers for performing
arts. Moving further away from Taipei,
Hsinchu, Hualein, Kaohsiung, Taichung,
Puli and many other destinations offer a
myriad of experiences.
A land of rugged mountainous terrain
with abundant rainfall, for experienced
mountaineers and hikers, it is the
most sought after destination to go for
mountain adventure. Young travellers
oozing with the passion to explore the
hidden gems of nature can participate
in outdoor activities that include: The
underwater adventure in the tropical
surface, hiking in the foothills close to the
city or climbing the roof of Taiwan, Mt.
Hade at nearly 4,000 meters above sea
level, the highest mountain in Northeast
Asia.
Economical stays and warm hospitality
of the locals makes it very convenient
for youngsters to travel to Taiwan where
adventure never seems to end.
Australian High
Commission
grants 150,000th
visitor visa
WH Desk
India is becoming one of the fastest
growing markets for Australian
tourism and visitors. The Australian
High Commission in New Delhi has
granted a record 150,000 Visitor visas
during the 2015-16 program year.
Australia’s High Commissioner to India,
Harinder Sidhu, said, “It is a landmark
achievement. This is the first time ever
that we have reached the 150,000-mark
in visitor visa approvals in India for a
year.”
“One hundred fifty thousand visitor visas
is a sign of the growth of the relations
between our two countries. I welcome it
as a positive milestone. The achievement
underlines the fast expanding links
between Australia and India.”
“More and more Indians are travelling
to Australia for business, tourism and to
study in our universities, as well as visit
family,” Sidhu said.
July 2016 29

HOSPITALITY
Dream Hotel Group announces expansion
plans with eight hotels in new destinations
WH Desk
Dream Hotel Group took the
opportunity to announce $200
million in properties in India at Goa
and Jaipur and another $1.5 billion in new
hotel development, including Doha and five
other locations, all with independent hotel
development partners. Future U.S. locations
include Nashville, Dallas, Palm Springs, and
two additional New York properties in Times
Square and Long Island City.
“We are thrilled that the Dream brand of
hospitality, marked by vibrant nightlife
and dining opportunities, has resonated so
widely,” said Jay Stein, CEO, Dream Hotel
Group. “These new developments double the
footprint of our founding brand and give our
loyal guests many more options to explore
the other side of themselves.”
The new locations mark a thrilling new
chapter for Dream Hotels, the group’s
founding luxury lifestyle brand positioning
them as international hospitality innovators.
The Dream Hotels brand is on track to have
five hotels operating in renowned U.S. cities
by early 2019, with an additional opening
in Doha, Qatar, Dream Hotels’ first foray
into the Middle East. India development
will begin this year and the properties are
expected to be ready by 2019-20.
WH Desk
30 July 2016
“We will be announcing additional properties
in the coming months, continuing to solidify
our burgeoning portfolio,” added Stein.
“The expansion stands as testimony to the
passion that the Dream team shows me
every day in bringing rich experiences to our
guests.”
“We always believed in the Dream brand,
but it’s exciting to see so many of our
development partners believing in the same
dream and turning it into a reality,” noted
David Kuperberg, Chief Development Officer,
Dream Hotel Group.
Dream Hollywood will be a driving force
in the ongoing revitalization of Hollywood.
The hotel features 179 guest rooms and
suites, five dining and nightlife venues in
or adjacent to the property, and a spacious
11,000-square-foot rooftop. The property is
expected to open in September 2016.
Dream Nashville will be located in
the heart of the city’s historic downtown
featuring 169 rooms. The property is
expected to open in mid 2018. Opening in
the second half of 2018, Dream Dallas
will be a 260 room Dream Hotel Group
development. Slated to open in 2018,
Dream Palm Springs will have 175
rooms.
The first of two planned New York openings
for the group, Dream Times Square
Wyndham Hotel Group unveils strategic global
transformation across 16 brands
Wyndham Hotel Group unveiled its vision
for the democratization of travel, bringing
the hospitality industry one step closer
to providing great value and quality
experiences at every price point. WHG’s
roadmap for the strategic transformation of
its iconic brands is aimed at elevating the
travel experience for millennials and the
diverse global middle class.
The product of an 18-month study focused
on 50 recognised hotel brands along with
the primary decision drivers of thousands
of business and leisure travellers around
the world, WHG’s global transformation will
reposition and revitalise its 16 economy,
midscale and upscale brands to meet the
needs of travellers regardless of their budget
or traveling style. From rejuvenated interiors
and refreshed marketing campaigns to
enhanced perks targeted to the kinds of
travellers each brand welcomes, guests will
begin to see changes throughout WHG as
early as summer 2016.
“We believe travel is about creating lasting
memories, but given what’s currently
available in the market, travellers are forced
to compromise enriching experiences
because of price,” said Josh Lesnick, WHG’s
Chief Marketing Officer. “It’s time for the
hospitality industry to get democratization
right – it’s not just about value for money,
it’s about the freedom to explore your world
the way you want. Wyndham Hotel Group’s
transformation enables that freedom.”
WHG’s transformation is unlocking the
untapped opportunity to serve the everyday
traveller, whose needs and preferences
are often more nuanced than the existing
‘economy’ options available to them. Travel
will open in the second half of 2018. The
239 room property will be located in New
York’s iconic entertainment destination.
Dream Long Island City will see the
lifestyle hotel group’s foray into the city’s
underutilised Queens Borough, a gallant
follow-up to the celebrated Dream Hotels
properties in Midtown and Downtown. The
254 key property is expected to open in
2019.
Dream Doha, a development with Al
Alfia Holdings with design by Meyer Davis,
will open in late 2019. The ambitious 325
room property, featuring nine dining and
nightlife venues, is the first Middle Eastern
development for the brand and a pivotal step
in the expansion strategy.
and tourism is one of the fastest-growing
industries globally, with its contributions to
the global GDP expected to rise from $7.2
trillion to $11 trillion over the next decade as
the global middle class more than doubles
from 2 billion to 4.9 billion.
With its powerhouse portfolio of nearly 8,000
hotels worldwide in the economy, midscale
and upscale segments, WHG is well-poised
to meet these demographic tailwinds and
lead the hospitality industry in empowering
guests to have great experiences at a great
value.
“We are transforming at a time when
the $7.2 trillion global travel and tourism
industry is growing faster than the global
economy, fueled largely by millennials and
an increasingly travel-curious middle class,”
said WHG chief executive officer Geoff
Ballotti.

July 2016 31

HOSPITALITY
‘OYO for Business’ now live on app
WH Desk
OYO has announced the availability of
its self-serve platform for business
travellers on its mobile app. Called
‘OYO for Business’, the platform offers
rooms to cater to the needs of corporate
travellers. Amenities include air-conditioned
rooms equipped with flat-screen television,
free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast and
24x7 customer-care support.
Speaking on this launch, Ritesh Agarwal,
Founder & CEO - OYO, said, “OYO has
ushered in an era of reliable customer
experience in the highly fragmented and
unpredictable category of unbranded hotels
in India. We are thrilled to extend our brand
promise to business travellers across India’s
premier corporate, SMEs and start-ups. We
are confident that business travel in India
will become more rewarding and hassle-free
once booked through OYO for Business.”
The platform offers ease of creating bulk
bookings via the web and mobile app
along with the added convenience of
travel-expense management. Companies
that enrolled in the pilot phase include
Hotels.com announced the integration
of Uber into its mobile app, enabling
customers to book an Uber to take them
directly to their hotel at the touch of a
button.
WH Desk
corporates such as Citibank, Sony, E-value
serve, Ranbaxy, Capgemini and L&T and
start-ups including Zomato and Snapdeal.
Since launch, more than 4500 corporate
have come onboard with OYO for Business
with recurring demand from 1500 of
them. Top clients include ITC Limited,
Bharti Airtel, HCL Technologies, Tech
Mahindra, Ernst & Young, Bennett Coleman
& Company, AMW Motors, Hitachi and
start-ups such as Delhivery, Grofers and
IndiaMart.
Hotels.com integrates Uber into
mobile app
This integration is powered by
Button, the mobile economy app,
so customers using the Hotels.com
Android app can now book an Uber in 30
different languages and in all countries that
Uber operates in.
Dan Craig, Senior Director, Mobile, Hotels.
com explained, “At Hotels.com we pride
ourselves on being at the forefront of mobile
technology developments in the travel
industry, so being one of the first OTAs to
offer this Uber service is fantastic news.
Like us, Uber are technology leaders in their
field and together we’re making it easy for
travelers to get to their hotel in a hassle-free
way, so they can start their trip sooner. We
are always looking for ways to enhance our
in-stay mobile offering, so watch this space
for more exciting features coming soon.”
Ritesh Agarwal
Founder & CEO
OYO
Customers staying at any of the properties
available through Hotels.com will see an
Uber Button appear in their app on the
day their hotel stay begins, both on the
homepage and in the reservation section.
When a user taps the ‘Ride there with Uber’
button, their current location and hotel
address is automatically pre-populated
within Uber’s application, making the entire
experience seamless.
Button is the marketplace behind the
integration and offers a simple and efficient
way to scalably build partnerships on
mobile; that add complementary services
and drive revenue, all with a great user
experience.
“Button continually proves that the best way
to build monetisable experiences is to think
about the user first,” said Michael Jaconi,
CEO & Co-Founder, Button. “By giving
users access to the things they want when
they need it most - in this case, a quick
way to hail an Uber, and get to your hotel
faster - Button opens up a revenue channel
that delivers value for all parties involved
including, and above all, the user.”
K.B. Kachru appointed
Chairman Emeritus
and Principal Advisor,
Carlson Rezidor
WH Desk
Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, one of
the world’s largest and most dynamic
hotel groups, has appointed K.B.
Kachru as Chairman Emeritus and Principal
Advisor, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, South
Asia, effective July 1, 2016.
In his new capacity, Kachru will continue to
be on the board of the Group’s South Asia
K.B. Kachru
Chairman Emeritus & Principal Advisor
Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, South Asia
business entities, serve as an outstanding
ambassador and represent the company
at industry forums and governmental
affairs, while enabling strategic growth
opportunities.
Kachru has been instrumental in building
the business in India since 1998. Most
recently, he was Chairman and a Mentor
to Raj Rana, Chief Executive Officer, South
Asia, of the Group, since 2013. Prior to that,
Kachru served as Executive Vice President,
responsible for the overall strategy, hotel
development, management and functional
support of key markets within South Asia,
overseeing Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s
joint venture companies in India.
“K.B. has made outstanding contributions in
building and growing Carlson Rezidor Hotel
Group’s South Asia business from strength
to strength in the past 20 years. India is
our fortress market in Asia Pacific and we
remain not only committed, but accelerated
and invested in this market. I wish him great
success in his new role as we continue to
leverage his industry standing, strong owner
relationships and goodwill to reinforce our
lead position in the country,” said Thorsten
Kirschke, president, Asia Pacific, Carlson
Rezidor Hotel Group.
32 July 2016

Treebo Hotels earns 2016 Tripadvisor
Certificate of Excellence for 9 Properties
WH Desk
Treebo Group of Hotels, the Bangalorebased
chain of budget hotels has
announced receiving the TripAdvisor
Certificate of Excellence for 9 of its
properties for 2016. In its sixth year, the
achievement upholds hospitality businesses
that have earned great traveller reviews on
TripAdvisor over the past year. Urs Regency
(Bangalore), Orchard Suites (Bangalore),
Natraj (Delhi), Turtle Beach Resort (Goa),
Woodsvilla Suites (Jaipur), Raya Inn (Jaipur),
Hummingbird (Mumbai), Archana Residency
(Mumbai) and Urban Oasis (Mysore) are the
recipients of this recognition for delivering
quality customer experience under the
auspices of Treebo Hotels.
Sidharth Gupta, Co-Founder of Treebo
said, “This award recognises our efforts
in consistently delivering the best service
WH Desk
and experience at our properties for
travellers. This recognition is special to us
as it is based on the reviews by our guests.
Receiving such positive feedback is quite
encouraging and we endeavour to constantly
guarantee memorable experiences for our
existing as well as future guests.”
“With the Certificate of Excellence,
TripAdvisor honours hospitality businesses
that have consistently received strong
praise and ratings from travellers”, said
Heather Leisman, Vice President of Industry
Marketing, TripAdvisor. “This recognition
helps travellers identify and book properties
that regularly deliver great service.
TripAdvisor is proud to play this integral
role in helping travellers feel more confident
in their booking decisions.”
The Certificate of Excellence accounts for
the quality, quantity and recent reviews
ExperienceTshampua, an ancient
Indian massage at V Resorts
V
Resorts focuses on introducing the
harried Indian traveller to unexplored,
sublime destinations in the
country. And so they aim to curate holiday
experiences that are novel, memorable and
extremely unique. Experiences around the
undiscovered facets and destinations, the
local gems of India are at the centre of this.
Keeping in sync, V Resorts offers Tshampua,
an age-old tradition of dry massage still
practiced in the rural parts of the country.
Link @ Sheraton
Happy Hours
A nearly-dry (essential oil can be used on
request), head and foot massage, it involves
kneading and applying friction to give
relaxation. A head and foot massage in trueblue
desi style brings immense relaxation
and relief from stress related symptoms.
Mentioned in Ancient Indian texts too,
the Tshampua is known to invigorate and
stimulate the muscles and firm up the skin.
Tsampua is our attempt to revive the age-old
technique of relaxation. As with the advent
of more and more spas and fancy therapies,
the head started to get increasingly ignored.
Sidharth Gupta
Co-Founder
Treebo
HOSPITALITY
submitted by travellers on TripAdvisor over
a 12-month period. To qualify, a business
must maintain an overall TripAdvisor bubble
rating of at least four out of five, have a
minimum number of reviews and must have
been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12
months.
Ironically, it is the head, along with face,
neck and upper shoulders that accumulates
most stress.
Have you been eyeing on that delicious
slice of cake at Sheraton Hyderabad
Hotel? If yes, you are in for a treat
as Link @ Sheraton is offering products
at half the price From 7pm to 10 pm daily,
treat yourself to half-priced breads, pastries
and cakes Honestly one of the best deals in
town!
Relish an assortment of irresistible baked
goods at Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel,
Gachibowli.
July 2016 33

HOSPITALITY
Djubo crosses 1000 Indian hotels
client mark in a span of 9 months
WH Desk
DJUBO is a fast growing hotel tech
company that has made its presence
known in more than 150 cities in
India and has over 1000 Indian hotel clients
within a span of 9 months of funding.
They are managing daily bookings worth
1.1 Cr every single day which amounts to
approximately 1 percent of the entire hotel
industry in India. Managing 3300 room
night transactions every single day is quite
a big feat as compared to some OTAs. For
practically every single client they have
increasing online revenue in a very short
time.
In today’s Indian hotel landscape, only 20
percent of hotel inventory is visible online
in spite of all the OTAs and Aggregators
present. The biggest challenge faced by
Hoteliers was that using SAAS products
only gave efficiency gains in terms of time
WH Desk
but their revenue gain was not increased.
Since only 80 percent of hotels are utilizing
either very little or no technology, more than
90,000 hotels in India are missing out on the
internet and OTA bandwagon. The hotel tech
products that are currently in the market
today are not well equipped to solve the
Indian hotelier’s major pain points, but are
more focused to helping hoteliers in other
developing countries.
Tarun Gulati from DJUBO said, “Early
mentors had warned us against starting
a SAAS business in the Indian SME space
citing poor payment collections especially
in the hospitality sector. They had wanted
us to look outside India. But, we felt that the
Indian hospitality industry was in need of a
revamp. In order to ease the hotel industry
into the online market, we came up with a
360° sales platform.”
Cambodia Joins the Six Senses
Assemblage of Amazing Destinations
The portfolio of inspiring destinations
that create the settings for Six Senses
Hotels Resorts Spas is to expand to
an exciting island location in Cambodia, a
country steeped in history and reemerging
onto the world stage of exotic destinations.
Six Senses Krabey Island is scheduled to
premiere in 2017.
From its beginnings in 1995, Six
Senses quickly became recognized as
the hospitality industry’s pioneer of
sustainable practices, demonstrating that
responsibility can be successfully wedded
to uncompromised high-end facilities. Six
Senses Krabey Island further reinforces
this dedication to the environment and the
community.
Located on the island of Krabey, the resort
is comprised of 40 pool villas set around
the naturally landscaped 30-acre island,
with its highest point being 137 feet (42
meters) above sea level. Guests arrive at the
mainland reception before the short water
transfer to the island. Sihanoukville Airport
is less than a 10 minute drive from the
mainland jetty, Phnom Penh International
Airport is a three-and-a-half-hour drive
and Siem Reap International Airport is a
scenic eight and a half hours. Sihanoukville
Airport has domestic as well as international
flights from Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh
and Siem Reap, and also has the capability
to facilitate international private jets and
helicopters.
“We are delighted to add this gorgeous
gem to our portfolio of island escapes,”
said Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas
President Bernhard Bohnenberger. “It is a
great pleasure to align with a like-minded
and committed owner when it comes to
sustainability and wellness. RPB Investment
company based in Cambodia has taken
careful steps to preserve and protect the
island of Krabey and is also employing
thoughtful and conscientious design into the
project’s building practices. We are eager
to offer an enticing holiday option and new
destination to travelers bound for Cambodia
and Southeast Asia.”
The resort’s private pool villas exemplify Six
Senses’ commitment to using sustainable
material while embracing modern
technology for total guest convenience and
comfort. Living rooms will include a day
Monsoon offer-
Romance in style at
One&Only Royal
Mirage, Dubai
This monsoon surprise and delight
your partner and enjoy the wonder
and romance of Old Arabia amidst
the splendor of One&Only Royal Mirage
in Dubai. Breathe in the moments to be
remembered forever, from playing in the
sea and indulging at the award-winning spa
to dining on fabulous cuisine and dancing
barefoot in the sand.
Starting from AED 1,440 (INR 27,000
approx.) onwards per room per night,
reserve your stay for minimum 2 nights to
enjoy the package. The package includes:
ÂComplimentary Â
breakfast in bed
ÂOne  romantic dinner for two per stay in
any of the 7 restaurants
Â2 Â for 1 on Traditional Oriental Hammam
or One&Only Spa Experience
Booking period: Book by 30 September 2016
Valid for travel: Till 30 September 2016
bed that can be adapted to an additional
bed, minibar and working desk. The master
bedroom will feature a bed with a netting
canopy while the bathroom includes a
generous bathtub. Some villas will also
feature outdoor showers. All units include
a private plunge pool and decking ideal
for sunbathing and al fresco poolside
dining. The resort will offer the Sleep with
Six Senses experience which includes
Naturalmat mattresses and dedicated sleep
ambassadors to guide guests in achieving
the very best night’s sleep. Retreat and
Reserve villa categories will offer mini wine
cellars.
An all-day restaurant will serve a fresh
breakfast buffet and a la carte selections,
a la carte casual lunches and seasonally
themed dinners.
34 July 2016

July 2016 35

CRUISE
Costa Group Asia Partners with
Hello Kitty to Offer Themed
Vacations in China
WH Desk
Costa Group Asia and Sanrio
Company Ltd. will enter into a
two-year strategic partnership to
launch the first ever Hello Kitty
design tailor-made for a cruise liner
Costa Group Asia together with Sanrio
Company Ltd. announced the launch of the
first Hello Kitty designed specifically for use
on a seagoing vessel, providing exceptional
cruise vacations for Chinese passengers in
the upcoming summer
Under a two-year strategic partnership
agreement, the specially designed Costa
Hello Kitty will be introduced on three of
Costa Group Asia’s China-based vessels
-- Costa Atlantica, Costa Serena and Costa
Fortuna -- pairing the much loved Hello
Kitty with the ships’ elegant Italian style
to deliver a unique cruising experience.
Passengers will enjoy Hello Kitty-themed
cabins with walls and doors featuring the
image of Hello Kitty and her dolls. The iconic
image will also be presented on soft sheets
and fluffy pillows
NTO
Tirun brings
Weekend
Special offer
DISCOUNT & OFFERS
The first time ever Tirun Travel
Marketing brings a short sailing
opportunity to make the leisure time
precious and memorable for you. Get ready
to make your weekend valuable with the
quick and refreshing journey to Italy and
France.
This Voyage takes you from Rome and
back – just enough time to explore the
Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and
the Coliseum. Then it’s off to Saint-Tropez,
France, a charming old world French Riviera
town. A day in Portofino, Italy, presents
the perfect photo opportunity as the ship
approaches the Multi coloured homes built
into the side of the hills overlooking the
water. And Back to Rome, because one day
is just never enough.
Sailing Date: August 19, 2016
Ship: Azamara Journey
Itinerary: 3 Night Weekend
Departing from: Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
Sailing To: Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy,
Saint-Tropez, France, Santa Margherita
(Portofino), Italy,
Price: $709* per person
Tourism New Zealand announces Kiwi Link India 2016
Tourism New Zealand’s annual
travel trade event, Kiwi Link
India, is scheduled to take
place from July 11-13, 2016 in
Mumbai.
WH Desk
In 2006, Costa Group Asia became the first
international cruise company to enter the
China market. The innovative spirit and
intuitive understanding of what Chinese
passengers desire comes naturally to
the brand, which is celebrating its 10th
anniversary in China this year. Appealing
to Chinese children and adults alike, this
joint effort will further cultivate the “cruise
is the destination” concept and create a new
cruise holiday experience for passengers of
all ages.
“Over the past decade, Costa Group Asia
has understood the market in China better
than any other player and we will remain
committed to providing the most innovative
and high-quality cruise products for our
Chinese passengers,” said Buhdy Bok, Costa
Group Asia president. “Costa Group Asia
is dedicated to making strong partnerships
with leading brands across diversified fields.
Together with Sanrio Company Ltd., we hope
that we can combine our Italian style cruises
with the image of Hello Kitty to provide
special voyages full of happiness and joy for
our passengers.”
Steven Dixon
Regional Manager-South & South East Asia
New Zealand Tourism
The event will include full day
workshops on July 11 & 12 and a
frontline training for travel trade
agents in Mumbai on July 13, 2016. The
event will provide the opportunity for the
Indian travel agents, product managers
and planners to interact with New Zealand
operators and understand the new
developments in the tourism sector.
Kiwi Link India 2016 will be seeing
participation from 35 operators from New
Zealand, 4 Airlines, Immigration New
Zealand and 80 Indian delegates. Tourism
New Zealand will also be hosting key buyers
from around India in Mumbai for the first
two days of the event. Throughout the threeday
Kiwi Link event, Tourism New Zealand
aims to connect New Zealand operators
with Indian travel agents to strengthen trade
relations between the two countries. The
event helps travel partners highlight the
destination’s unique range of offerings from
New Zealand along with showcasing new
products and services that are available.
Speaking about the event, Kevin Bowler,
Chief Executive, Tourism New Zealand,
said, “ Having a well-informed travel
trade is critical to converting interest into
bookings. This event provides an ideal
platform for us to strengthen relations with
our stakeholders in the Indian travel trade,
supporting their ability to sell travel to New
Zealand, particularly during the shoulder
seasons.”
Steven Dixon, Regional Manager-South
and South East Asia, Tourism New Zealand,
said, “Tourism from India to New Zealand is
on a rise and we are very confident to keep
this momentum going for our new financial
year as well. The experiential nature of
Indian travellers has also put the country at
a high rank for New Zealand operators. In
a pre-budget announcement during TRENZ
2016, the Prime Minister John Key confirmed
an additional USD 8 million over four years
for Tourism New Zealand to target visitor
growth opportunities in the USA and India.”
36 July 2016

WH Desk
Improving Flight Operations
Delivers Green Benefits
While aviation looks to the upcoming ICAO Assembly for
a global market-based measure for carbon emissions,
environmental improvements in daily operations continue
apace Fuel efficiency is improving about 2 percent a year,
well ahead of the average 1.5 percent improvement targeted
through 2020. IATA presented a detailed report. Here are the
excerpts.
And though a global offsetting scheme needs to be agreed
at the forthcoming ICAO Assembly, if aviation is to achieve
the next milestone of carbon-neutral growth from 2020,
operational and technological enhancements that drive fuel
efficiency will continue to play a significant role in the industry’s
environment strategy.
Better operational practice and new technology are two of four
industry pillars on climate action, alongside positive economic
measures and improved infrastructure.
Last year, the Air Transport Action Group (ATAG) worked with IATA
and other associations to publish a set of efficiency case studies by
the industry, Aviation Climate Solutions. “The case studies show
the wide variety of climate action across the sector,” says ATAG
Executive Director, Michael Gill. “Carbon emissions reduction
projects by over 400 organisations in 65 countries are represented.
But this is only a snapshot of the projects underway. The most
impressive realisation is the sheer amount of collaboration between
industry partners, helping to drive efficiency. Action is taking place
in all parts of the world: not only at large organisations, but also
through partners in emerging economies.”
Airline Innovation
Many roads lead to better fuel efficiency. Lufthansa and Israel
Aerospace Industries have developed the TaxiBot aircraft tug, for
example, that gets an aircraft to its departure position without using
the main engines, saving fuel, noise, and emissions. It has been in
regular operation at Frankfurt Airport since February 2015.
Meanwhile, Croatia Airlines aligned its potable water use with
demand resulting in annual fuel savings equating to about 40 tonnes
of carbon dioxide (CO2) per A319/A320 while cabin reconfigurations
have similarly reduced aircraft weight and fuel use, cutting CO2 by
80 tonnes per year per aircraft.
South African Airways takes fuel efficiency seriously, according
to Tlali Tlali, Manager of Media Relations. “We remain keen to
implement new measures aimed at promoting more fuel efficient
methods in our operations,” he says.
Singapore Airlines notes several fuel efficiency projects in
its 2014-2015 Sustainability Report. Its A380s have adopted new
operational procedures at London’s Heathrow Airport and it has
also instigated tailored arrivals and continuous descent approaches
elsewhere; measures that are saving fuel while maintaining safety.
It has also been working with its OEM partners to tweak engine
performance, lessen aircraft drag, and minimize aircraft weight.
Nasa Technology
FACT & FIGURES
Electric vehicles on the ground, new generation aircraft in the air—
the day-to-day business of flying has scrutinized and tweaked just
about every aspect of performance.
The next phase of development continues this exciting progress.
The EU’s Clean Sky Joint Undertaking (CS JU) program recently
demonstrated an ‘all electrical aircraft’ (AEA), for example, using
an ATR 72 prototype. The technologies used on the AEA were jointly
developed by ATR’s shareholder Finmeccanica, Liebherr, and Thales
as well as other CS JU partners.
Meanwhile, NASA has completed its Environmentally Responsible
Aviation (ERA) project, that could help cut airline fuel use in half.
Jaiwon Shin, NASA’s Associate Administrator for Aeronautics
Research has claimed that the technologies identified by ERA could
amount to $255 billion in operational savings between 2025 and 2050.
Eight integrated technology demonstrations were completed by ERA
researchers, including tiny embedded nozzles that blow air over
the surface of the vertical tail fin. This proved aircraft could fly with
smaller tails, reducing weight and drag.
Partnerships
As the manufacturers’ work on engine development illustrates,
airlines cannot maximize fuel efficiency on their own. As has been
the case from the outset of the industry’s environment strategy, the
aviation value chain has important contributions to make.
Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) typifies the
widespread collaboration. Information sharing should cut down on
such delays as unnecessarily long taxiing times or extended waits
at the runway for take-off. It is estimated in the European Aviation
Environment Report 2016 that A-CDM could save 12–36kg of fuel in
the taxiing phase per flight.
Global Offsetting Scheme Update
ICAO’s global aviation dialogues (GLADs)—a series of regional
outreach and education sessions—took place in March 2016 as
negotiations continue toward the adoption of a global climate
agreement for air transport.
Air Transport Action Group (ATAG) Executive Director, Michael Gill,
says that the GLADs were a vital tool to help build consensus among
governments. “The development of a global carbon offsetting scheme
for aviation is crucial if aviation is to meet its climate obligations,
while also continuing to meet the economic and connectivity growth
desired by many countries around the world,” he notes.
July 2016 37

APPOINTMENT & EVENTS
DOMESTIC
Kerala Travel Mart KTM
September 27 - 30, 2016
Kochi, Kerala
Travel & Tourism Fair
September 16 - 18, 2016
Mumbai, India
Madhya Pradesh Travel
Mart
October 14-16, 2016
Bhopal Madhya Pradesh
INTERNATIONAL
Shul Ambwani
Director of Rooms
Hyatt Pune
Sascha Lenz
Executive Assistant Manager F& B
Grand Hyatt Goa
Simmi Sood
Marketing Comm. Manager
Hyatt Regency Gurgaon
PATA Travel Mart
September 7 – 9, 2016
Jakarta, Indonesia
With a rich experience of over
a decade by his side, Ambwani
will continue to shape the hotel
with his rich insights. His forte
has always been maintaining
excellent guest relations in some
of the best hotels in India. He
started his career in 2005 with
Taj Banjara, Hyderabad and this
was followed by his association
with brands including Park
Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa, and
Novotel Hyderabad Convention
Centre where he advanced as
Front Office Manager.
With over 18 years of experience
in the hospitality industry,
Sascha has been associated with
hotels such as the Sheraton and
the Mandarin Oriental, prior to
joining Hyatt, in the year 2007.
Originally from Germany, Sascha
started his career in 1999 after
which his impressive food and
beverage knowledge; as well as
managerial skills have taken him
from his home country to the
United States of America, Hong
Kong, Russia and then to United
Kingdom
Simmi comes with over 15 years
of experience in the Media and
Marketing space, and a strong
background in communication
and marketing. In her new
capacity, she will develop, drive
and oversee the marketing and
communications functions of
the hotel .She is responsible for
developing and implementing
marketing and public
relations strategies to drive
the positioning of the brand,
business and performance goals.
She started her career with a
media group and then moved to
hospitality industry.
JATA Tourism EXPO Japan
September 22 – 25, 2016
Tokyo, Japan
HICAP
October 19 – 21, 2016
Hong Kong
World Travel Market
(WTM)
November 7 – 9, 2016
London, England
ILTM
December 5 – 8, 2016
Cannes, France
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38 July 2016

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