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Vol. 9 | Issue 6 | April 2019 | Pages 60 | `50

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Dear Friends,

Outbound market is no doubt on an upsurge and this is one such segment which is uprising year-on-year basis. The statistics seems positive and the year seems

positive for outbound market. With millions of people travelling outbound from India for tourism is really an appreciable number. The outbound sector is one which earns more taxes and has generated more jobs not only in the metro cities but in tier II and tier III cities, than any other tourism sector.

The millennial are doing wonders and their creativity, ideas and way of putting things are commendable. The issue speaks to the young turks of the industry and highlights their thought on how the industry is evolving and what are the key mantras to success.

The sudden demise of Praveen Chugh left the industry in great shock. He was not only a veteran in the field but was an influential personality. TTJ pays homage to Praveen Chugh.

Happy Reading!

Edi

tor’s

Des

k

Ravi [email protected]

Travel Trade Journal (TTJ) • Volume 9 • Issue 6 • April 2019

Team Sampan

Editorial and Marketing Office :Sampan Media Pvt. Ltd., B-7/114A, 3rd Floor, Safdarjung Enclave, Near Sukhmani Hospital, New Delhi – 110029 Ph: 9560264443, [email protected]

All information in Travel Trade Journal (TTJ) is derived from sources we consider reliable. It is passed on to our readers without any responsibility on our part. Opinions / views expressed by third parties in abstract or in interviews are not necessarily shared by us. Material appearing in the magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part(s) without prior permission. The publisher assumes no responsibility for material lost or damaged in transit. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or otherwise deal with all advertisements without explanation. All advertisements must comply with the Indian Advertisements Code. The publisher will not be liable for any loss caused by any delay in publication, error or failure of advertisement to appear.

Owned and published by: Ravi Sharma, Editor & Publisher, 18/3, Railway Colony, Sarojini Nagar, P.S. Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021 and printed on his behalf at Polykom Offset, C-138, Naraina Industrial Area, Phase-1, New Delhi-110028.

Email:[email protected]

Editor & Publisher : Ravi Sharma

General Manager : Naveen Lal

Senior Editor : Sudipta Saha

Assistant Editor : Bharti Sharma

Bureau Head (West) : Prashant Nayak

Management Trainee : Sonali Ahuja

Contributing Editor : Gurjit Singh Ahuja

Consulting Editor : Sonia Dutt

Sr. Designer : Subhash Chaudhary

GM - Marketing : Sonika Bohra

Bureau Head (East) : Partha Chatterjee

Manager PR : Ankit Dixit

Photographer : Parth Sharma

Asst. Manager Administration : Kuldeep Singh

System Co-ordinator : Rahul Tahilramani

Accounts Manager : Priyesh Ranjan

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ADTOI launches its 10th chapter in North EastTo promote North East Region extensively ADTOI is launched its 10th

Chapter on April 6, 2019 at Taj Vivanta coinciding with Rongali Festival in Guwahati (Assam). ADTOI delegation led by P P Khanna, President will be participating in the launching ceremony from Delhi. The event was attended by State Tourism officials, tour operators and hoteliers. Arijit Purkayastha of Koyeli Travel, Guwahati and ADTOI member is being nominated as the Chairman of ADTOI North East Chapter. He will be supported by other Offic bearers of the Chapter.

Air Seychelles intensifies its presence in Madagascar Air Seychelles the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles intensifies

its presence in the market ahead of the launch of its seasonal flights on July 3, 2019. The event held at the Carlton Hotel was attended by the Madagascar Minister of Transport, Tourism and Meteorology, Joel Randriamandranto, media houses based in Madagascar, travel and trade professionals as well as other key representatives from the local Ministry of Tourism. The Air Seychelles delegation was led by Remco Althuis, Chief Executive Officer included the airline’s Chief Commercial Officer, Charles Johnson, Sheryl Barra, Head of Corporate Affairs, Michelle Lafortune International Sales Manager and the airline’s general sales agents.

Ethiopian to serve as official carrier for 2019 World Press Freedom Day Global Conference

Ethiopian Airlines, the largest aviation group in Africa and SKYTRAX certified Four Star Global Airline, is pleased to announce that it has been chosen as the Official Carrier for the 2019 World Press Freedom Day Global Conference to be held in Addis Ababa from May 1-3, 2019. The conference is jointly organised by UNESCO, the African Union and the Government of Ethiopia under the theme ‘Media for Democracy: Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation’. As the official carrier, Ethiopian will provide air transport service to the 1000-1500 participants who will be coming to Addis Ababa from around the globe.

Lords Hotels and Resorts celebrates grand opening of Diyalo Lords Plaza Birgunj - Nepal

Lords Hotels and Resorts announced grand opening of its 60 rooms property, Diyalo’ Lords Plaza Birgunj- Nepal. This hotel is an ideal choice for discriminating travellers visiting Raxual or Birgunj and it provides best of both worlds for business and leisure traveller. Diyalo’ Lords Plaza Birgunj features contemporary rooms and suites, business center, four conference rooms, three food and beverage outlets - bar, multi cuisine restaurant and roof top dining, spa, gym, pool and casino.

Lufthansa inspires India to travel with its new brand campaign #LifeChangingPlaces

Building on the global success of its latest brand claim ‘say yes to the world’, Lufthansa launched a new cross-media brand campaign in India, namely #LifeChangingPlaces. Following the brand’s legacy of promoting open-mindedness, this campaign celebrates five real-life explorers who were rewarded with enriching experiences on their travels. Through strong visual storytelling, #LifeChangingPlaces invites global travellers to explore the limits of who they are and findout who they can be. First launched globally in 2017, the campaign has now come alive in India with the story of Somnath Haldar. An IT consultant based in India, Somnath turned to music after he stumbled upon New York’s vibrant Jazz scene on a trip to the city. The journey transformed his life, leading him to leave his job and pursue his passion as a music teacher back home in India.

Explore Dubai with Emaar Hospitality Group

Emaar Hospitality Group, the hospitality and leisure business of Emaar Properties PJSC, announces attractive and exceptional value Dubai stopover packages at its Address Hotels + Resorts, and Vida Hotels and Resorts. The package is also applicable at Rove Hotels, a joint venture of Emaar Properties and Meraas, promising guests a memorable experience in Dubai. Enjoy your stopover and immerse yourself in world-class entertainment destinations or break your long-haul journey and explore the leading attractions in Dubai. Visitors stopping for 12 hours in Dubai can experience the magical city with a package that includes two complimentary tickets to Dubai Aquarium and underwater Zoo and At The Top, Burj Khalifa, plus airport transfers from Dubai International Airport and preferential rates at the participating hotels. On the way to your destination, you can also stay for 24 hours in the city at one of the deluxe rooms to additionally indulge in complimentary breakfast and access thrilling destinations.

TAFI President Praveen Chugh passes away

Travel industry leader and President of Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) passed away due to a heart attack in Delhi. He was also serving as Vice Chairman of the World Travel Agents Association Alliance (WTAAA) and COO.

Japan Airlines and Travelport agree to launch new joint venture

Japan Airlines and Travelport Worldwide, a leading travel technology company, agreed to form a joint venture to take ownership of Travelport Japan KK (‘Travelport Japan’) and JAL’s 100 per cent owned subsidiary, Axess International Network (‘Axess’). Under the unified Travelport Axess brand, the joint venture will operate a Global Distribution System (GDS) tailored to the needs of the Japanese travel industry. The proposed joint venture, which will operate under the

brand name Travelport Axess, will combine Axess’ expertise in Japan and Travelport’s global technology leadership. Travelport Axess will continue to offer travel agents services through Axess’ GDS platform, ‘Axess’, and enable access to Travelport’s GDS platforms, ‘Apollo’ and ‘Galileo’. The proposed joint venture will provide online, mobile and corporate travel propositions including global booking and expense management tools as well as access to New Distribution Capability (NDC) content, offering Japanese travel agencies and their customers the best of locally developed products with best in class global connectivity and capabilities.

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Seychelles Tourism Board’s first of its kind global advertising campaign

Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) has launched its global advertising campaign film that will be showcased across traditional and digital mediums in the India market. The film is a first of its kind initiative of Seychelles Tourism Board, India Office and is directed and developed by digital content creators –TheVibe. The film captures the essence of Seychelles and highlights diverse aspects of the destination. Seychelles being a popular destination for island hopping, the video begins with mesmerising aerial views of the main islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and highlighting the world’s most photographed beach Anse Source D’Argent known for its beautiful granitic boulders. Moving on from the views of powdery soft sand and clear blue waters, it takes the viewers through the journey of a young couple enjoying various adventure activities on their romantic vacation.

Find your Fortune in the pristine paradise of Mashobra, Shimla

Fortune Hotels, a member of ITC’s hotel group, has recently opened Fortune Select Cedar Trail in the unspoilt hill station of Mashobra, Shimla. Mashobra is untouched by commercialisation and home to beautiful sanctuaries, nature treks, apple orchards, streams gushing through valleys and adventure activities. Also known as the peaceful Shimla, Mashobra takes pride in being one of the most offbeat hill stations in India and is an ideal destination for family holidays, solo trips, honeymooners and corporate offsite. Mashobra lures travellers with a large number of activities like rafting, paragliding, rock climbing, trekking, rappelling, quad biking, bird watching and more.

Rent a Finn encourages travellers to learn true happiness from

the FinnsVisit Finland is inviting people from around the world to

experience how the Finns live in true harmony with nature through their new initiative, ‘Rent a Finn’. This summer, Finnish citizens will work as happiness guides and welcome visitors into their homes, showing them how to connect with nature and understand the Finnish art of relaxation. The application period for guests is open until April 14, 2019. Studies show that nature can balance our minds and alleviate stress. Even a short walk in nature lowers the blood pressure and pulse while boosting endorphin levels. In 2018 the UN ranked Finland as the happiest country in the world, thanks to its special connection with nature.

WelcomHeritage opens new property in Jaisalmer - WH Kalyan

Bhawan WelcomHeritage, India’s largest heritage hotel

chain has added one more property to its existing portfolio - WelcomHeritage Kalyan Bhawan in Jaisalmer. WelcomHeritage Kalyan Bhawan was the former home of the ruler of Jaisalmer - Maharawal Jawahir Singh ji and was called as ‘Kanwar Pada’, meaning Princes’ Residence in local parlance. It is a centrally located property amidst the walled city of Jaisalmer. The property features 22 exquisite rooms and has been refurbished in the original art deco style to meet the requirements of the modern traveller and caters both leisure and business travellers who want to enjoy the local flavors of town.

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Assam can become one of the most sought after destinations in the country because of its magnificent tourism products

such as exotic wildlife, awesome scenic beauty, colorful fairs and festivals, age old historical monuments, lush green tea gardens and golf courses, massive river Brahmaputra and its tributaries, serene and tranquil country side and warm and hospitable people. “Assam is a place for natural beauty and wildlife along with several religious institutions, we are taking multi prolonged strategies to promote Assam. We are undertaking very aggressive branding of the state under ‘Awesome Assam’. Priyanka Chopra Jonas has come on board as a brand ambassador as she has a fantastic following outside India and we are trying to use her platform to draw in people. She has been associated with us very closely and her popularity can help us to get in more traffic in the state. As a state, we are participating in national and international events making our presence more visible and strong,” says Shri Rajesh Prasad.

Tourism activities in Assam have developed from time to time and in an unplanned manner. But this time, the department aims at adding up new tourism product and showcases the hidden gems of the state. In the same line, Shri Rajesh Prasad said, “Apart from Kaziranga National Park, Kamakhya Temple, Manas National Park, we are promoting smaller places which have a lot to offer. Our another strategy to promote tourism is, developing infrastructure and this year,

the State Government has sanctioned a healthy amount in order to develop infrastructure in the regions which are lesser visited by tourists making it tourist-friendly. We have also come up with tourism policy offering incentives to people interested in investing in this sector. Besides, we are also promoting film tourism in the state.”

Assam Tourism is also working hard to market Assam as a hot destination for the tourists from East and South East Asian countries. Apart from this, they are also focused on leveraging innovative forms of tourism such as cruises, ethnic tourism, tea and golf, leisure tourism, transit tourism, adventure tourism and monsoon tourism. “As far as connectivity is concerned, we are in talk with the concern departments and airlines and very soon we are going to be

directly connected with Thailand and Bangladesh and later with other neighbouring countries. The rail network has increased and having a direct

connectivity to the major cities of India, we aim to achieve a satisfying number,” adds Shri Rajesh Prasad.

On promotional front, the department aims to go digital in a big way, lots of social media campaigns will be run. They also intend to build some kind of curiosity about the destination on the social media platform which will encourage travellers to visit the state. Besides, the department has tied up with Indian Railways and the train Yeswantpur Express is completely painted with Awesome Assam branding. They have also tied up with three trains and are planning to avail Assamese cuisine on demand. Hoardings in major parts in the state have been put up, in order to boost inflow of domestic tourists. Domestic tourism is our major thrust, as far as international tourism is concern we are more focused on Southeast Asian countries as historically they connect to each other, and share similar food habits and culture.

“We cannot add much to the destination, but what we are looking at is adding value to the destination. We want to offer the travellers a flavour of raw culture, the rural lifestyle and thus we are promoting Majuli in a bigger way. We are also promoting the traditional dance, the mask and pottery making and I am sure that the culture part is going to lure many tourists. Therefore, people who want to experience the flavour of life would definitely come and visit us,” concludes Shri Rajesh Prasad.

ASSAMrevels it’s treasure

trove to domestic and international tourists

Assam, the most vibrant of eight states has a vivid array of products for the inbound and domestic visitors. Well, the state might not have been able

to achieve the major chunk of business which they actually deserve, but they still stand strong

strengthening their presence in the national as well as international platform. The state is positioning itself as a most preferred destination by offering a range of tourism products. Shri Rajesh Prasad (IAS), Principal Secretary to the Government of Assam, Department

of Agriculture and Tourism and Agriculture Production Commissioner Assam shares more with TTJ.

Sudipta Saha

We cannot add much to the destination, but what

we are looking at is adding value to the destination. We want to offer the travellers a flavour of raw culture, the rural lifestyle and thus we are promoting Majuli in a

bigger way.

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Punjab, doesn’t needs an introduction, the flavour of its culture, music and food can be tasted anywhere in the

world. This vibrant state is blessed with handsome tourism arrivals whether for pilgrimage tourism or for heritage tourism, whatever the reason might be but the end result is the numbers. Tourism in Punjab is growing on a daily basis; the report says that the footfall is increasing. Previous year’s data shows that the there’s been an appreciable increase in the tourist arrival. Adding to it, Shri Malwinder Singh says, “We have been receiving an appreciable tourist footfall and Amritsar itself receives a major chunk. In order to maximise the footfall and promote Punjab as a most preferred destination to visit, we have been aggressively promoting Punjab on the national and international platform. We are participating in all the major marketing events in order to maximise the exposure and disseminate information about the tourism products available in the state. Since, we are actively conserving heritage monuments in order to add variation to the tourism products and attract maximum footfall. After one year, most of the heritage building in Punjab will be conserved and few of them will also have museums and interpretation centers and once the project is completed by June 2020, an upsurge in arrival is very obvious.”

People from all over have started showing interest in Punjab. In Amritsar, apart from The Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh and Wagah

Border, and now a Partition Museum, Gobindgarh Fort, the War Memorial and museum-where the entire history of military is on the display. “We also have other destinations Pul Moran which dates back to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s era, just 200 yards from the Pakistan border. We have also started the nature trails in the wetland of Keshopur and have recently concluded a bird watching festival. The numbers of migratory birds was more than the Bharatpur Birds Sanctuary this year. Apart from Keshopur Wetland, we have Harike Wetland, Ropar Wetland, Kanjli Wetland and are developing them for the nature lovers. We are also planning to create new tourist products in Kapurthala, Patiala and even Gurdaspur district. At present, the major focus is on Kapurthala and

Patiala because of the abundance of heritage buildings located in the region. In Patiala, we are building a boutique heritage hotel in the campus of Qila Mubarak which is lightly to be opened by the end of 2020,” mentions Shri Malwinder Singh.

The USP of Punjab is ‘agriculture’ and the state is trying to encash it. Punjab has few very mesmerising farm

stays and best of them can compete with any of the five-star hotels. Today, 12 per cent of the total employment in the state is generated from tourism and its related fields. “We are coming up with the new policies, encouraging film and medical tourism. We have huge NRI population and the cost of medical treatment is quiet expensive abroad and thus a lot of people are visiting for bypass surgery, knee replacement, cosmetic surgery, etc. They recuperate here and then go around,” states Shri Malwinder Singh.

Another major highlight is that the state has already liberalised the film policy and any film maker who wishes to come to Punjab for film shooting is more than welcome. In fact, some of the destinations are renamed on social media after the films which have been shot at that particular destination or spot. The state has everything to offer from Punjabi cuisine to its hospitality to the overpowering music to name a few.

“We are neither looking at enticing tourists nor at buying tourists, we are aiming at facilitating the tourists, film makers, medical service providers so that all of them have a very congenial, healthy, warm and hassle free environment here. Punjab is one of the most peaceful states which instills a sense of safety, security, support and warmth of the people. We see subsidies as a cruches, we become enablers and would like to enable people and want them to win the race,” concludes Shri Malwinder Singh.

PUNJABplays a knock out

session, promotes, develops and

encourages tourismPunjab is representative of abundant things

bestowed with a rich tangible heritage. Reflecting its history are the countless sites

that dot the state: impressive forts and palaces, ancient monuments, architectural marvels and

many a battlefield making it one of the preferred destinations. Shri Malwinder Singh Jaggi (IAS), Director, Punjab Tourism shares more with TTJ.

Sudipta Saha

At present, the major focus is on Kapurthala and Patiala because of the abundance of heritage buildings located in

the region.

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TrawellTag Cover-More aims

to be the largest global travel insurance provider

in three yearsIn a recent select media round-table meeting at the TrawellTag Cover-More office in

Mumbai, there was considerable quality discussion and understanding about the travel insurance market in India. Judith Crompton, CEO, Asia Pacific, Cover-More Group who

was in India for the meet and Dev Karvat, Founder & CEO, TrawellTag Cover-More, India and emerging markets were most happy to let us know about the prevailing insurance

market conditions and the growth and future plans of their progressive organisation, with operations in 22 countries across five continents.

Prashant Nayak

TrawellTag Cover-More is one of the leading travel assistance and insurance providers in India. TrawellTag Cover-More offers

global assistance including online tracking of lost luggage, medical and travel insurance, family protection, concierge assistance and ancillary products. With their fully integrated and in-house claims assistance service, TrawellTag Cover-More protects more than 3.8 million travellers every year. Thus, Cover-More, now a part of Zurich Insurance Group, has reaffirmed a strong commitment to driving growth and differentiation for their TrawellTag Cove-More business in India.

Judith Crompton was in India as part of Cover-More’s new global growth strategy roll-out. She was appointed as Cover-More’s CEO, Asia Pacific in October 2018; previously she was based in Zurich, Switzerland as Cover-More’s CEO for Europe, Middle East and Africa. Earlier, Judith was a senior airline and travel industry executive with more than 30 years’ experience with some of the largest and most innovative travel companies in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. She was Chief Commercial Officer with Virgin Australia from 2012. Prior to joining Virgin Australia, Judith held senior positions at Qantas, Etihad Airways and Flight Centre. Her talent, drive and international experience have enabled to leverage her company’s global insurance business to maximum effect.

During the media meet, Judith said, “India remains one of the most exciting economies in Asia with growth in travel insurance uptake almost double that of more mature markets. Cover-More remains very positive about the outlook for travel

in India, especially international travel. In recent years, we have also seen significant growth in the number of outbound travellers understanding the importance of quality travel insurance.”

On his part, Dev Karvat mentioned, “Being part of a global player allowed the business in India to intelligently apply Cover-More’s travel insurance capabilities to de-commoditise the product offering and grow the share of the traveller wallet. In recent years, we have also become the partner of choice for airlines and leading Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) including GoAir, IndiGo and Goibibo which underlines the strength of our integrated travel insurance offer and our ability to deliver differentiated solutions for our distribution partners.”

TrawellTag Cover-More enjoys over 50 per cent market share in India, along with leveraging on the local experience of TrawellTag and brand name of Cover-More. They believe that India is ‘less mature’ compared to the global scenario since travel insurance here is still not a priority. Their mission now is to make more people acquire travel insurance. In this regard, TrawellTag Cover-More conducts the Travel Agent Engagement Programme (TAEP) for front line staff in 12-15 cities annually. They also monitor the conversion rate pre and post conducting the TAEP. They have seen that agents in the tier-II and III cities benefit immensely from TAEP since TrawellTag team is able to demonstrate and train the staff on converting queries.

On this Judith also added, “In major markets, the travellers are used to buying insurance and a country such as India, where insurance is not much of a priority the potential is high. Our ambition is to be the

largest provider of travel insurance globally in three years while growing our existing customer base with our partner agents. The process of partnership is similar across the world but educating the agents about the business becomes necessary as they can be the biggest influencers in a country like India.”

Talking about India market, Dev was of the opinion that selling travel insurance on the domestic front is a challenge, and they need to work on training the agents to ‘cross-sell’. That is an area they are considering seriously since the potential is huge. Travel Insurance is becoming the need of any travel itinerary as people are looking out for adventure and experiences with high risk factors.

On the technology front, TrawellTag is investing in data mining and also deploying artificial intelligence to record and analyse behavioural pattern of travellers. On this, Dev opined, “The next step for us is a deeper dive into the e-commerce sector with enhanced technological know-how and support from the Cover-More and aligning that with the changing business scenarios in India.”

Cover-More acquired TrawellTag in 2012 and subsequently Cover-More’s global business became part of Zurich in 2017, making combined business the third largest travel insurance business in the world. On acquisition of TrawellTag by Cover-More, Dev feels that the Zurich Insurance Group has brought in its best practices to India business. Their process-driven platform supports their business module, making it robust and dynamic while India is surely an exciting market for travel insurance.

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Success is not a 20-20 match, it’s just like a test match. You slowly and gradually keep running

between the wickets to score high on the score board. TBO has a similar story of success, They have been generously and gradually growing with their outstanding business strategy. Recently, TBO acquired Island Hopper and Clickitbookit widening their horizons.

Speaking on this acquisition, Ankush Nijhawan, Co-Founder, TBO Group said, “The idea was very simple and they have built a very clean, lean and agile business, something which TBO never did or could not match in this sector. Five years back, when we were trying to compete with them and many others as well, my study said that the rates which they had along with the ground transfers, sea planes were by far the best. Thus, my key objective was to look into these markets and build size and scale for these islands and lastly the air connectivity to these islands is going to increase which will open several opportunities.”

He further added, “Island Hopper will be headed by Sandeep Bhasin as the Vice President who has been the pillar in building this business, and they will be based in the TBO head office. Island Hopper is going to gain an advantage from TBO, the southern market where their presence was limited will get exposed. The whole distribution market of TBO which is by far the largest network in the country will get exposed to Island Hopper team. The brands, Island Hopper and Clickitbookit will continue as two separate brands under the TBO umbrella. The technology

has integrated now, knowing our technology we will further build more features in the portal making it more robust and efficient for the travel partners to use. It is indeed going to be a win-win for us going forward.”

With this acquisition, TBO expands its leisure travel product footprint and scope in these island nations too. This acquisition brings tremendous opportunity and pricing advantage coupled with quality service to our b2b partners and will make TBO an overnight leader in these fast-growing island markets. With this acquisition, TBO will now start exploring possibilities with other emerging island markets globally.

Sandeep Bhasin, Vice President, Island Hopper further mentioned, “This acquisition started as a conversation and it grew leaps and bounds. In less than six months, we stand as a company 100 per cent acquired by TBO. I feel that with the reach and the existing network of TBO, this will take Island Hopper to newer heights. The idea is to increase the revenue, ensure that we double

the business and this financial year, we are looking at 100 per cent growth. We already had the rates, products with us, with TBO we also bring in reach, buying capacity, network of agents which itself is a boost. Island Hopper for us is a product which we have created and it has grown in our own arms, when you hand over something which is precious, you ensure that the one who buys it values it and TBO was the best bet who would value the product.”

Highlighting his role, Sandeep shared, “I will be instrumental in driving and doubling the business on Island Hopper pan India and also ensure that the island business ie Greek Island and Indian Ocean for TBO as a group grows worldwide. The idea is to ensure growth for Island Hopper in the Indian region and ensure growth as a business for these islands. At present, we aim to stabilise the business before we plan too much, at least in the short term planning I don’t want us to over commit and under-deliver rather consolidate and grow the business and then add more destinations.”

TBO acquiresIsland Hopper and Clickitbookit,

another feather in their capTravel Boutique Online is spearheading the industry and is moving on a fast pace breaking

all barriers. In their recent move, TBO announced the acquisition of one of the leading companies in terms of number of passengers visiting the island nations of Mauritius,

Maldives and Seychelles- Island Hopper and Clickitbookit. They seem unstoppable and their gala of success is impeccable, inspiring others to think upon.

Sudipta Saha

Ankush Nijhawan Sandeep Bhasin

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TAT is focusing on highlighting exclusive and high end offerings in various destinations in Thailand.

Isra shares, “Revenue spend by Indians visiting Thailand has increased by a staggering 31 per cent thus making luxury holidays very popular in Thailand. A luxury traveller looks for special experiences such as tailor-made itineraries, personalised services, world-class facilities, availability of different cuisines and five star hotels and resorts. Thailand can cater all the demands and offers it all. In terms of luxury holidays, Thailand has world-class spas and has become a popular destination for spa holidays. Thailand offers a variety of wellness and spa experiences in luxury hotels and resorts. Gastronomy tourism is also a segment catering to the luxury holiday seekers, which is being promoted highlighting Michelin star restaurants.”

For Indians, Thailand is one of the most popular and preferred destination when it comes to planning a holiday. Stapanaseth shares, “Some of the USP of Thailand especially for the Indian travellers are- wide variety of products and services, close proximity to India, visa on arrival facility, warm Thai hospitality, beautiful beaches, value for money destination, world class hotels, availability of Indian and vegetarian food, even halal food, a variety of shopping options at great prices, perfect destination

for all celebrations including weddings. Apart from the above, Thailand has something to offer for every kind of traveller and on any budget.”

Undoubtedly, Thailand is promoting itself in every possible way. However, the country is constantly developing itself keeping in mind the new age travellers. He tells, “Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui and Krabi are the usual favourite holiday destinations for Indian travellers. For families, we are promoting destinations such as Koh Chang which is an amazing beach destination in the East coast and Koh Samet near Rayong, The hills in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai in the North and Khao Yai which is closed to Bangkok and is a destination famous for wineries and golf courses. We have also introduced new destinations such as Amphawa and Samut Songkram which are very close to Bangkok and offer unique local activities and attractions for tourists.”

Thailand is known for its spas which have traditional Thai massages and healing massage techniques as well as the world-class wellness retreats which attract the luxury travellers specially. Talking about the upcoming segments, Stapanaseth comments, “This year, we will be promoting special interest tourism such as wellness.

Destinations such as Koh Tao and Trang are hidden gems and are perfect romantic getaways with beautiful untouched beaches. Trang also hosts the unique under water wedding every year in February that is a great experience for couples to renew their vows underwater. For adventure enthusiasts, Thailand offers many activities such as rock climbing zip lining, marathons, biking tours and certified courses for scuba diving apart from a number of water activities, which are popular among the youth.”

Thailand has been taking a note of the potential segments and also the visible changes in buying behaviour. Stapanaseth shares, “Another segment that Thailand is very popular for is sports tourism. Whether it is playing golf in the internationally acclaimed golf courses in Thailand or learning the art of Thai Boxing-Muay Thai. All these sectors have been contributing significantly towards the growth of more and more new age tourists to Thailand. This was earlier attributed only to the travellers from tier I and metropolitan cities but now even travel enthusiast from smaller cities and tier II and III cities are showing a keen interest in traveling to Thailand to enjoy offbeat products and experiences.”

Thailand continues to be a popular destination for Indian travellers. India stands

at number six in terms of tourist arrivals to Thailand. In 2018, the country welcomed

close to 1.6 million Indian tourists registering a remarkable increase of whooping 23

per cent from last year. Thailand has set the target of two million Indian tourists in

2019 and has been working hard towards achieving the goal by promoting new destinations and products for Indian

travellers. TTJ spoke with Isra Stapanaseth, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, New Delhi Office and discuss the ever-evolving

potential of the country. Bharti Sharma

Thailandto explore facets of tourism

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Indian tourist arrival brews up for Turkey

Glorious turquoise coast, ancient ruins, alpine pastures and mountainous headlands make Turkey

the most famed destination for tourists. The vast landscape of Turkey expresses its beauty individually when it comes to history, nature and culture. Turkey is an absolute delight for every domain of tourist. H Deniz Ersoz, Culture & Tourism Counsellor, Turkish Culture and Tourism Office in India talks about its

diversified market and emerging tourism products.Bharti Sharma

2019 is announced as the Gobeklitepe year in Turkey, the place in South Eastern part of Turkey known to have the oldest

temple in the world rooted to 10.000 BC. With 18 cultural heritage sites in the permanent heritage list of UNESCO and 77 cultural sites in the tentative list make Turkey one of the richest countries in the world in terms of cultural heritage. The country hosted 46 million tourists in 2018 registering a pragmatic growth. H Deniz Ersoz, shares, “The main source markets for Turkey in 2018 were Russian Federation and Germany consisting leisure tourists. However, we would like to diversify our tourism markets and products by offering new and different segments of tourism. In that sense, 12 countries in the world have been specified as strategic countries by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism including India as well. Turkey is known as an open air museum being a crossroad country between Europe and Asia, East and West. Showcasing the cultural uniqueness of Turkey will be the main issue which can also be counted as diversifying our main tourism product which is known as sea-sun-sand concept.”

In 2018, Turkey made a record with 1.5 lakh Indian tourists and 70 per cent growth and expects to have more tourists this year. He shares, “The local carrier Indigo started to fly from Delhi to Istanbul directly on March 20. We have welcomed their decision to double their daily flights to Istanbul and are very excited about the developments in aviation industry in India. With the increase of direct air connectivity between our countries, it will contribute the mutual tourism flow between India and Turkey. We would like to make India among the first 20 countries in terms of the tourist arrivals to

Turkey. We would like to see more Turkish tourists in this beautiful country as well. In this regards, we are ready to collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism of India as well.”

Last year, Turkey hosted around 15 big Indian weddings whereas

this year’s aim is to have 30 weddings. Turkey’s main strength in destination wedding segment is its big hotels with high quality services and having DMCs which has lots of experience in organising Indian weddings. He shares, “Destination weddings are important for us. We are very happy about the demand of Indian families for organising their weddings in Turkey. Although, Antalya has already emerged as a wedding destination and there are lots of things to explore in Antalya as well. Besides, Canakkale region, Gobeklitepe region also deserves attention. When it comes to India, we have witnessed a growth in FITs. Istanbul, Cappadocia, İzmir, Pamukkale, Mugla and Kusadasi are among the most popular places that Indian like to visit in Turkey. However, we also suggest our Indian friends to visit other attractive places of Turkey as well.”

In addition to FITs, Turkey has also gaining popularity in terms of MICE. Istanbul, Antalya and Izmir have been attracting a lot of cooperates. He adds, “By the end of 2019, Istanbul will be

hosting more than 20 cooperates with more than 1,000 visitors each. We also like to showcase Antalya as a MICE destination having huge facilities for MICE with reasonable prices and all-inclusive system. Turkey offers different products for every type of tourist and this makes the country powerful in tourism industry. Cappadocia and Pamukkale can be explored by having a hot air balloon tour. Variety of water sports can be experienced in Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman and Izmir. Indian young people can experience different types of entertainment in different cities of Turkey such as İstanbul, İzmir, Canakkale and Mugla.”

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Roop holds a Masters degree in hospitality from the University of Ashland, and has earned a specialisation in Asian

Tourism patterns from the University of Nanyang (Singapore). He has closely worked and assisted in setting up many of the family owned ventures. Skilled in strategic planning and implementation to achieve the organisational goals, he has enhanced his practical knowledge as an entrepreneur. He has built on his proficiency of business development, brand management, people management, client nurturance, team building, cultivating teamwork, corporate sales and redefining business processes.

In the mystical land of Mahabharata, awe-inspiring Noor Mahal, the ‘Incredible Indian Palace Hotel’ has been built on a monumental scale. It is a five star luxury palace hotel inspired by India’s rich heritage and captures royalty experience enjoyed by Indian Maharajas over the centuries. This royal abode of modern kings and queens has become an extremely preferred destination for leisure, MICE and weddings. “Started 10 years ago with about 60 rooms, in this short span of time we have achieved around 60-70 per cent occupancy. That

was when we planned to increase our room inventory to 125, at the

present scenario we will be crossing 75 per cent of the

occupancy. I have areas from 900 sqft to 2000 sqft and entire 3 lakh convention space, making it a preferred MICE destination. MICE contribute around 60 per cent of the revenue and the rest 40 per cent comes from leisure, staycation, etc,” says Roop Pratap Choudhary.

Noor Mahal is more than just one

of the country’s most majestic luxury

palace hotels. It is an architectural

landmark that personifies

the grandiose, elegance and spirit of India’s rich royal heritage. A reflection of Rajputana and Mughal architecture, it stands out as a true blend of history, culture and aesthetics. Haryana has not been able to strengthen its position in the touristic map and then Roop Pratap’s father thought of creating a place which was destination in itself and where Noor Mahal came into existence. “Customer experience has evolved, as an independent hotelier. I make sure anybody walking to my doors is taking a memory with them. I believe in creating experiences in all sorts. The hotel is amidst an agricultural base and therefore we are offering them farm experiences and lot more in the kitty to experience,” adds Roop Pratap Choudhary.

Roop has proved that if someone has the enthusiasm and the motivation to succeed, then it doesn’t matter how young they are. A great listener and passionate to try everything, he connects to the staff with conviction and consistently motivate them with a gentle approach and a steady hand. Attentive to detail and highly service-orientated, he looks at every tiny aspect and make sure it is more than perfect to exceed customer expectations. True to ethics, Roop encourages transparency and believes in developing talent and loyalty. Customer focused, result oriented, striving for higher standards, high energy and positive attitude define him appropriately. Roop has been investing his knowledge and skills into making the Noor Mahal and other ventures of Jewel Group of Hotels a great success.

Talking on the challenges, Roop Pratap Choudhary mentions, “Brands have gone bigger and there is a big mis-match of demand and supply in the place like that. It is a capital incentive industry, I feel if you are not from the same industry it becomes bit tougher. Today, whoever wants to owe a hotel, invests in the same and gives to the brands to run. It definitely impacts the independent hotelier like me when it comes to marketing strategy, the amount of money put into staff. But, yes I can compete with them when it comes to experiences, I can offer differential experiences which is for a lifetime. I can offer flexibility, a sense of exclusivity.”

Roop Pratap Choudhary, understands the intricacies and the profundity of the hospitality world

He is well versed with the do’s and don’ts of

the hospitality industry, understands the market with the in-depth knowledge of the industry. Roop Pratap

Choudhary, Managing Director, Noor Mahal and

Jewel Group of Hotels is an hotelier, both by profession

and passion. In an exclusive interview, he shares about

his journey and plans. Sudipta Saha

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In 2017, JNTO opened office in India with strong and focused plans to increase tourist from India to Japan. With an endless amount of things

to do for tourists of every segment starting from adventurer, nature, shopping or food lover, exclusive bullet trains, gadgets and many

more. Kenichi Takano, Executive Director JNTO, India talks about the new range of products and destination for India market.

Bharti Sharma

Kenichi Takano

Abu Dhabi to become the next ‘go to’ destination

Thrilling motor racing, contemporary art fairs, exciting sailing, pristine beaches and winter sun is what Abu Dhabi serves. For those looking to engage with Gulf culture, Abu Dhabi offers opportunities to understand the UAE’s history through museums, exhibitions and tours. A city with the world’s largest hand-loomed carpet, the fastest roller coaster, the highest high tea, the tower with the utmost lean, the largest cluster of

cultural buildings of the 21st century. Bejan Dinshaw, Country Manager, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi shares details about

this exciting city where nothing stands still.Bharti Sharma

Bejan Dinshaw

India has always been one of the leading overseas markets for Abu Dhabi. In fact, it gained the number one position last year

with 415,000 Indians visiting the Emirate, with 15 per cent growth from 2017. Bejan comments, “With various facilities being added to the destination, like the recently opened Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, the restored Qasr Al Hosn and the presidential Palace, Qasr Al Watan is a visual treat that narrates the story of UAE’s heritage. Upcoming is the Clymb, which is an indoor skydiving centre. Abu Dhabi is all set to inaugurate its new International airport slated to open in Q3, this year. With so many attractions, we are anticipating double-

digit growth for this year too.”Talking about the upcoming segments,

Bejan shares, “Over the years, the leisure segment has grown immensely with double-digit year-on-year growth. Another emerging segment is the MICE. We are focusing to strengthen the MICE movement from India to Abu Dhabi and have had good success last year. Another aspect we are focusing is the Weddings. Abu Dhabi is becoming the favourite destination amongst Indians to host the weddings. In 2018, Abu Dhabi hosted around 20 Indian weddings with large group numbers.”

Abu Dhabi caters to every age segment and gives opportunity to write their own extraordinary story. “Firstly, the connectivity between India and Abu Dhabi is seamless. We have a total of 262 direct flights from 12

Indian cities every week. Secondly, there is a connect between the two countries. India and Abu Dhabi are culturally rich regions and this creates a connect between them which encourages Indians to experience Abu Dhabi. Also, it has something to offer to everyone in the family. Art aficionados can visit the cultural district, Wildlife Safari, Saadiyat Island, that houses Louvre Abu Dhabi.”

Bejan tells, “New age travellers are more into the experiences, a destination offers to them. Abu Dhabi has a lot to offer in terms of experiences. There are various watersports activities such as snorkeling, Kayaking and rafting. Desert safari at Arabian Nights Village which gives experiences such as dune bashing, Quad biking, etc.”

JNTO has 21 overseas offices including India. More offices will be coming up as required and part of future market

expansion plans by the head office. In order to secure higher spending Indian tourists, JNTO will reach out to the high net worth Indians spread across metros and beyond. It will be done together with trade, direct media, PR activities and seminars for travel agents. They will continue to deepen their geographic reach in India, to touch right travellers base through existing and innovative touch points. Kenichi shares, “In January 2019, we head started with two seminars for travel agents in Delhi and Mumbai, subsequently. Followed by a marketing initiative, #JapanSurprise campaign was shot with the actress Dia Mirza in Japan for three promotional episodes telecasted on

Times Now with digital amplification, sharing her experience in Japan. Top bloggers and journalist were also the part of same campaign story. During fam trips, we carefully select the journalist and influencers, who have premium traveller’s audience. Nonetheless, we are continuously in touch with travel agents for support, feedback and Japan Specialist program.”

In 2018, Japan witnessed 154,029 visitors with a growth of 14.6 per cent over last year. They aim to continue the growth in India market and target more HNI, experienced travellers together with MICE and Business segment. He further tells, “MICE, especially incentive tours are growing. Emerging economies plays a key role in the development of tourism and we are pleased to see India as one of the major source market for quality outbound tourist to Japan. Of course, the strong relationship between India and Japan has further pushed the limits and helped us in growing numbers.”

He adds, “We wish to promote Japan as a

wedding destination and to start with, Okinawa is a perfect match for Indian wedding taste. We work closely with Okinawa prefecture. Recently, we arranged recce tour for few wedding planners from Delhi to Okinawa, southern islands of Japan for their upcoming wedding project. Coming years will be glorious for Japan Tourism and we are hopeful to see high growth in tourist’s numbers from India to Japan.”

Many people travel to Japan and get amazed to see the society etiquettes and culture which is truly, an out of the world experience. Kenichi Takano says, “Japan brand is a big advantage and I see lot of excitement among Indian tourists to visit the country. Japan is a global icon of respect, humbleness, equal status treatment to everyone irrespective of background, a perfect blend of age’s old culture and tradition with advanced technology. I believe Japanese family and society values are global symbol and standard, looked up by many emerging and developed nations. They have to visit Japan to experience it!”

An amalgation of age’s old culture and tradition with advanced technology

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Contemporary hues with the tinges of antiquity on the Slovakia Canvas

The Slovak Republic is truly a gem in the heart of Europe. The crossroads of different influences, artistic and cultural movements’ provide a

traditional way of life intertwined with characteristics of modern Slovakia. H E Ivan Lan ari , Ambassador, Embassy of the Slovak Republic in New

Delhi elucidates about his plans as he targets high end travellers to discover the destination, listing the various offerings of the place.

Sonali Ahuja

H E Ivan Lan ari

Slovakia is a modern vibrant country with universal beauty, charm and diversity, cultural and historical

sites complemented by favourable climatic conditions. It is a strategically located country. The Slovak Republic joined the Euro zone and is a part of the Schengen area. H E says, “Slovakia is a member of European Union. The business icons have already discovered the place and now it’s time for the tourists to discover Slovakia. Last year we had 2.2 million foreign visitors and roughly 12000 visitors from India.”

Indian traveller is now a smart traveller and wants to gather experiences. The destination has snow covered mountain resorts, healing spas and the majestic forests making the travel more happening and an unforgettable experience. His Excellency opines, “India is a huge market because of the growing interest of middle class people

who want to travel abroad. We can offer them fantastic opportunities for both summer and winter vacations such as beautiful mountains, lot of resorts at countryside that are easily accessible by car. Indian people will discover Slovakia. There is definitely potential from India market because there are direct flights from Delhi by Air India to Vienna. From Vienna to Bratislava, takes 45 minutes to walk in the heart of capital. Using motorways, one can reach the most alluring islands in Slovakia in two to three hours.”

The Slovak Republic has one of the most dynamic GDP growth rates in the Euro area. “Tourism in Slovakia generates revenue of five billion Euros every year. It represents 5.2 per cent growth of our GDP. There are 16000 employees in tourism sector in Slovakia,” he shares.

Slovakia has a wide range of adventurous offerings for the tourists such

as skiing, hiking, cycling, trekking, etc. It has more than 12000 thermal and mineral springs. The temperature in Slovakia remains between +10 degrees to – 5 degrees. The river Danube provides the extraordinary views of flora and fauna that is unique to the peninsula. The historical places and monuments such as the castles are the testimony of the country’s rich history and the strategic geographic location of the country. Slovakia serves the most demanding culinary connoisseur. It is a place perfect for travellers seeking relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the daily routine.

Be it yachts to supercars, chic café to Michelin-starred dining, Royal casino to latest slot machines, wellness to well-being,

festivals to glamorous nightlife and outstanding hospitality to lavish rooms, Monaco gives you endless experiences which are exclusive and outstanding. Rajeev Nangia who is the India Director - Monaco

Government Tourist Bureau is delighted by the way Indians are opting to travel to Monaco and love the experience.

Bharti Sharma

Rajeev Nangia

A visit to Monaco is an experience in itself, be it your first or one of your many visits. Monaco never fails to

surprise. It is not about any one aspect but it’s all about the encompassing experience of hi-life that one can enjoy while in Monaco. Rajeev shares, “In the initial phase, demand for destination Monaco was very low and consumption habits of Indian HNI’s revolved around ‘Word of Mouth’. We embarked upon celebrity influencers talking about the destination thus creating aspiration among Indian HNI’s to discover the destination. Our focus was to involve influencers from various walks of life, be it renowned authors, opinion generating journalists, top bracket sports personalities, leading film makers, fashion fraternity leaders and designers and erstwhile royalties to highlight their experiences at the destination Monaco. This generated a positive wave towards

the destination in the top strata of Indian Society. These initiatives lead to destination gaining popularity and increase in HNI’s leisure, MICE and even big fat Indian weddings taking place in Monaco.”

Indian tourists want to explore the world in an opulent manner. 2018 was a year of constant growth in the number of people travelling to Monaco. He comments, “Year 2018 was an exceptionally good year from India to Monaco, as we see an increase of nearly 40 per cent and jump in position to 14th from 22nd in overall arrivals to Monaco. We take this opportunity to thank the Indian travel trade and MICE organisers for supporting us and hope the support will further grow in the year 2019. As of now India is among the top 15 markets producing travellers for Monaco and we expect the growth momentum to continue with an aim to be in the top 10 markets for Destination Monaco.”

While luxury cannot be static and has to innovate, Monaco continues to innovate its product offerings. Another feather in the cap, the newly renovated Hotel de Paris as well as One Monte-Carlo, is not-to-be-missed brand new experience for MICE in Monaco. A place for rich and famous people who aspire to take experiential holidays. Talking about the newly introduced experiences, Rajeev tells, “We continue with our strategy of sustainability and will continue to revolve around ‘Green is the New Glam’, which will be used to promote, Monaco as an eco-friendly Destination.”

Opulence redefined at Monaco

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While the USP of Czech Republic are its historical towns, castles, chateaus and exploring the amazing countryside, the aim is to

promote not only the capital Prague (one of popular destination in Europe among Indians) but also other cities and locales of the country.

Arzan Khambatta, Head, Czech Tourist Authority – Czech Tourism, India, shares more on the thought process to market this relatively

new country with the Indians. VFS Global is the official Tourism Representative of Czech Tourism Authority in India since 2016.

Prashant Nayak

India is a significant and growing market for visitors to the island of Ireland. They have an ambitious target for 2019 and beyond. The

first quarter of the year was good for Tourism Ireland and they hope to achieve their targets. Huzan Fraser, India Representative, Tourism Ireland, tells us that Ireland is committed to grow in this market as the opportunity is big with India being one of the world’s fastest growing

outbound travel markets and tourism.Prashant Nayak

Arzan Khambatta

Huzan Fraser

With a 12.5 per cent growth in tourist arrivals from India to Czech Republic in 2018 over last year,

the year began with a promising start. Beginning January, Czech Republic – Land of Stories participated in SATTE (South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange) and had a destination seminar along with the partners from the Czech Republic.

Since one of the main focus this year is MICE, Arzan says, “Czech Republic – Land of Stories interacted with some corporates presenting the various activities and state –of-the-art infrastructure in place and its capacity to hold large corporate groups. We expect to continue with our double-digit growth, with now having more airline

connectivity, Czech Republic becomes more accessible to the Indian travellers. Czech Republic has a lot more to offer other than Prague, we are also hoping the travellers to visit the land of many stories – popular for its architecture, music, spa towns, castles, UNESCO sites, etc. “

Bollywood movies such as ‘Rockstar’ and ‘Jab Harry Met Sejal’ have been shot in the Czech Republic, showcasing the natural beauty of the central European country. With growing travel aspirations among Indians across demographics, activities such as wine tourism, spa tourism, pristine nature stays have been driving Indian tourists to the Czech Republic. The Indian tourists in the Czech Republic visit not only the capital city of Prague, but also Karlovy Vary and fairy tale town Český Krumlov which is a favourite spot for honeymooners.

Adding more, Arzan mentions, “The theme of the Land of Stories in 2019 is the happening cities of the Czech Republic such as Prague, Brno, South Moravia and cultural experiences of castles and chateaux where families can relax and rejuvenate. The Czech Tourist Authority – Czech Tourism India will continue to promote the land of stories through various promotional activities, including sales visit, training, familiarisation trips, MICE seminars and joint co-ops with various travel agents.”

As Czech Republic continues to be one of the most favoured destination worldwide, they look forward to welcoming more Indians in years to come. They will be promoting the country as a premium destination targeting families, experiential travellers, business tourists, MICE, honeymooners and leisure travellers.

Ireland is witnessing an increase in leisure travellers as well as MICE groups from India. The British Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) allows travel to and

around Ireland and the UK on a single visa. In 2017, Ireland welcomed 38,000 Indian visitors and they expect a 15 per cent to 20 per cent year-on-year growth.

Fraser shares, “Tourism Ireland has just launched its new campaign – ‘Fill Your Heart with Ireland’ in December focusing on the regions of Ireland. We brought the idea to life by filming the new campaign with the heart-rate data of its visitors. Our ambition is to promote less well known attractions and regions. This new campaign

presents Tourism Ireland with a great opportunity to drive continued growth to the regions, this year and to encourage visitors to travel off-peak. It features locations that have been less visited by overseas visitors and will highlight outdoor activities such as cycling, walking and kayaking.”

Northern Ireland is increasingly used as a location for international and local TV and film productions. The majority of filming for ‘Game of Thrones’ show takes place in Northern Ireland and in the Titanic Studios Belfast. Ireland is also focusing on promoting regional experiences through ‘Ireland’s Hidden Green Heartlands’ where one can explore the off beaten track. There’s an infinite variety of things to do for all ages grow along the length of the Shannon.

“As far as marketing activities are

concerned, Tourism Ireland has been working with travel trade partners as part of joint co-operative campaigns to promote the island of Ireland. In addition, we have been giving destination trainings to the travel trade on a regular basis. Furthermore, we keep the Indian travel trade updated with latest happenings at Ireland through our trade e-zines,” tells Fraser.

Other attractions in 2019 are the St Patrick’s Festival in Dublin, where one can take guided history walks in famous sites including St Patrick’s Cathedral, the Guinness Storehouse and its museums. Dublin Theatre Festival 2019 will be held from September 26 - October 13. In 2019, they have the UEFA EURO 2020 and the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 is taking place in England and Wales and this will give a great opportunity to travel to Ireland.

Czech Republic keen to receive footfalls from India

“Tourism Ireland is committed to grow in the India market”

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Visit Brussels targets luxury and experiential tourismAs a tourism board, Visit Brussels is very optimistic and has been receiving positive request from Indian travel fraternity surrounding

itineraries and unique local experiences of not just Brussels, but Belgium as a country. Visit Brussels is represented by AVIAREPS in India and

Ellona Pereira, Account Director, Visit Brussels, believes the journey so far has been quite interesting, since their prime focus is in building brand

awareness surrounding this magnificent European capital.Prashant Nayak

Unique and varied Mauritian experiencesFrom untouched pristine beaches to lush green forests, Mauritius provides a break from city life. A delight for the nature lover’s paradise, it offers fabulous culinary options

with great habitat. With a plethora of tourism products on its platter, Mauritius is now eyeing the MICE and golf

tourism. Vijaye Haulder, Deputy Director, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority shares more.

Bharti Sharma

Ellona Pereira

Vijaye Haulder

During the first quarter of 2019, Visit Brussels targeted markets such as Ahmedabad and Chandigarh

through ‘training programs’ as they believe both these markets have a great potential. Together with the strong collaboration of the Belgium Consulate, they had also organised a b2c networking event at the Diamond Bourse for their families. Moving ahead, they will focus on more activities targeting the FIT luxury segment as well as the MICE segment. In fact, for the year 2018 (Jan-Oct), 24, 880 Indians visited Brussels and there was a 20.5 per cent growth in arrivals from India as compared to 2017 in the same period.

To achieve targets for 2019 Ellona speaks, “I would like to reiterate that our focus for this year will be FIT luxury segment with a clear objective of ‘experiential tourism’. Apart from the normal tourism ‘must see agendas’, we will promote

the ‘must experience agendas’ such as chocolate making, waffle making, local cooking class and the famous ‘Brusselicious’ gastronomic tram experience or the unforgettable gastronomic experience in the skies over the capital. For the ardent beer lovers, we have several beer experiences with the soon to open ‘Beer Palace’ at the stock exchange, which will be a key highlight.”

Brussels celebrates many festivals all the year, which attract tourists from all over the world. Iris Festival in May, Ommegang in June, Brussels Summer Festival and Flower Carpet in August , Beer Weekend and Comic Strip Festival in September are the must go ones amongst the many festivals celebrated in the Belgium capital.

Speaking of museums and attractions, Eliona elaborates, “Brussels, caters to a host of child-friendly activities such as fascinating dinosaurs at the Natural Science

Museum, magical trains at Trainworld, dream cars at Autoworld, a step back in medieval times at Coudenberg palace, an original take on Europe at Mini-Europe, an encounter with their favourite comic strip heroes at the Belgian Comic Strip Centre and the Museum of Original Figurines, and even the history of Belgium from a child’s perspective at the BELvue Museum. You name it, Brussels has got it!”

For those looking for a deep aquatic experience, Brussels has ‘Nemo 33’, which is the second deepest diving pool in the world and is considered a true paradise for divers. Moreover, Nemo 33 also offers amazing underwater views through seven giant windows at its Thai restaurant and bar.

In 2019, Mauritius will continue to showcase ‘Mauritius beyond the Beach’. It is an island for exploring,

with Indian temples, colonial houses, botanical gardens, and opportunities to spot rare birds among soaring ebony trees, walk with lions or swim with dolphins. Vijaye states, “It was 35 years ago, MTPA came into India market and since then, we have seen it growing tremendously. The arrivals to our destination have increased. We are very much present in the India market. Through various roadshows, we tend to educate the travel agents and tour operators about our new products and offerings. The plan is to target the high spending demographics in India. 2018 has been a good year for us considering the airlift constraints. We expect a growth of about 8 per cent in 2019. The

percentage of Indian tourist to Mauritius is about 7 per cent at the moment. ”

Plentiful watersports, world-class spas, top-flite golf courses and gourmet cuisine make it the most preferred destination. He shares, “During the last two years, we started attracting Indian weddings, this has been growing consistently and this year we will focus much more on the wedding segment. We received about 10 Indian big fat wedding and are expecting to grow. We have revised our MICE strategy, helping operators to bring groups of one hundred and above, by giving them facilities as required. More family travel has been witnessed in Mauritius along with MICE. We started promoting Golf tourism. Golf is another segment which is bound to grow. There are 10 international golf courses in the island.”

MTPA conducted a series of roadshows in another five tier II cities, the objective was to maintain the reservoir and expand the reach. Vijaye adds, “The motive is to keep the travel trade aware of the latest products and destinations in Mauritius. If you are informed about the products, you sell them with confidence. The objective is to work closely with India’s leading trade stakeholders to promote the destination as an ideal choice for the discerning consumer. In next six months, we are going to do another series of four-five cities, covering all the metro cities as well as tier II and III cities.”

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Bahrain, a perfect blend of relaxation and luxury in a marbled splendour

Bahrain is turning out to be an all round destination for every traveller. Earlier, Bahrain was well known with business travellers as it was the financial capital of the Middle East. In recent times, their Tourism Board has a

focused approach and currently, it is targeting leisure, adventure, MICE and weddings. Sunil Mathapati, Country Manager, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority, (BTEA) India is closely working with every segment to ensure that

Bahrain is projected as a new tourist destination in the Middle East.Prashant Nayak

Sunil Mathapati

The first quarter of the year was great in terms of growth for Bahrain tourism. Their focus was to promote adventure

related activities along with weddings and MICE. In terms of marketing activities, they had a fitness influencer trip where they had renowned celebrities who visited Bahrain for an adventure filled fitness trip. In terms of trade engagement activities, they actively participated in various exhibitions and roadshows such as IITT and the four city roadshow to promote the destination. In order to tap the potential market, they are also doing joint promotions with the travel agents.

“India market has been great in terms of

growth of tourism in Bahrain. We had numerous weddings, corporates and MICE groups to Bahrain in 2018. The destination witnessed 34 per cent year on year growth, with 43 per cent jump in tourist arrivals compared to the previous year. As of now, our major focus is MICE weddings and we have been proactively promoting this by taking part in various trade fairs and wedding exhibitions,” tells Sunil.

In terms of events, Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is one of the biggest events held in March. Regarding festivals, Bahrain observes the holy month of Ramadan and during Eid they have a variety of activities for families and young children. They have recently started the pearl diving activity. Bahrain has been known for its vast stores of lustrous pearls since 2000 BC. Visitors can explore the island for pearls with a diving program endorsed

by the professional association of diving instructors.

Bahrain is going to launch world’s largest underwater theme park, covering an area of over 100,000 square meters. The dive site will have a 70-meter long decommissioned Boeing 747 as its center piece, the largest aircraft ever to be submerged.

Adding on Sunil says, “We also have events, which keeps on happening throughout the year which would interest our visitors. We have exciting events for art lovers, foodies, kids, and other as well in the pipeline. A number of new hotels are also coming up in Bahrain. The kingdom has infrastructure ready with convention centres, amazing accommodation facilities and scenic locations that are capable to host small, intimate to very large MICE events and weddings.”

Tourism Malaysia focuses on travel trade engagements

From the urban energy of Kuala Lumpur to pristine natural rainforests and beaches, Malaysia offers unique experiences and the country is explored by tourists from across the globe. Mohd Hafiz Hashim,

Director, Tourism Malaysia, Mumbai just wants travel partners to know that Malaysia is much more than Kuala Lumpur. They are working to increase their tourism products and showcase the unparallel charms

and beauty that Malaysia offers while reaching out pan India.Prashant Nayak

Mohd Hafiz Hashim

Tourism Malaysia started the first quarter with a good arrival record of around 53,736 tourists from India

in January 2019 which is 18 per cent increase compared to same month last year, which showed the success of the promotion campaigns. They participated in Tourism Malaysia two-city roadshow, followed by IITT in Mumbai and SATTE in Delhi. Recently, they winded their four-city product briefing seminar in Indore, Surat, Nashik and Pune in association with Kesari Travels.

Mohd Hafiz Hashim shares, “India is one of the most important markets for Malaysia Tourism, as it is strategically closer to the country and for its bio-diversity factor. Indian

tourist arrival recorded around 8.6 per cent increase in 2018 as compared to 2017. We are happy to see the overwhelming response from the travel trade fraternity and I am confident that with their support as well as the support from the media, we expect a good tourist arrival season this year too.”

Malaysia Tourism has observed that the number of Indians travelling overseas is growing rapidly from 15 to 20 per cent per year, to reach 50 million by 2020. Thus, they will be strategising their marketing approach to meet this demand. Along with the metros, they are aggressively targeting tier II cities in India. It was evident from the product briefing seminar in Surat, Indore, Nashik and Pune, as they felt these cities had a lot of potential.

Also, on other fronts, Mohd Hafiz Hashim further shares, “We are aiming to tap people looking for destinations to hold weddings and Malaysia could be one of

them because of economical packages, top class resorts and beaches. Malaysia is blessed with mesmerising beaches and attractive scenic locations, along with many heritage and religious places. Hence, we will be promoting Malaysia as a filming and a religious destination.”

Malaysia is a prime holiday destination in South East Asia offering a wide variety of options in terms of beach and varied destination tourism. Malaysia is also famous as a shopping destination with shopping complexes and street shopping being popular among tourists. This year, Tourism Malaysia is preparing a campaign ‘Visit Malaysia 2020’ and thus, much more activities will be geared up towards the campaign. All the states in Malaysia will have their own activities and events to attract more tourists to visit their respective state. Indians, indeed have to encash this splendid destination.

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Los Angeles eyes Indian vacationers this summerThe primary focus of Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board over

the next few months is to tap into the huge summer outbound travel market that exists in India. They hope to welcome families who wish to provide their children with the perfect mix of entertainment and education. Kathy Smits, Vice President, International Tourism, Los

Angeles Tourism and Convention Board feels when in the United States for a vacation, Los Angeles, is an ideal leisure and beach destination for Indian travellers looking to escape the sweltering Indian summer.

Prashant Nayak

Spain counts on the millennial to boost tourist growth from India

This year, Tourism Office of Spain would want to continue banking on their popular festivals to bring new experiences for their Indian

consumers. Miguel-Nieto Sandoval, Director and Tourism Counsellor, Tourism Office of Spain in India and Abu Dhabi, feels that potential Indian travellers can choose to celebrate their own festivities with a

‘twist’ on the Spanish ground and hence, believes that Spain remains a friendly, welcoming and experiential destination for all Indian explorers.

Prashant Nayak

Kathy Smits

Miguel-Nieto Sandoval

Los Angeles has unique attractions like the Space Shuttle Endeavour at the California Science Center or the

Dinosaur Hall at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, which are sure to capture imaginations and allow families to travel in time! Nothing beats a backlot tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, where visitors go behind the scenes of a real working movie studio. Griffith Park houses must-visit family attractions, including the LA Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Autry National Centre which offers an experience of the American West, and the Griffith Observatory, home to unbeatable views of the City of Angels and the educational planetarium.

“India’s 2018 performance has been extremely encouraging and we are pleased to see continued desire amongst Indian travellers for the Los Angeles experience. We witnessed

a 5.1 per cent year on year growth in 2018, welcoming 130,000 Indian travellers during the course of the year. Our marketing strategy in India has resulted in the market gaining one spot, from being the fourth highest international year on year growth market in 2017 to being the third highest in 2018. Our focus for the remainder of 2019 will be to maintain and grow this success trajectory in India,” shares Kathy.

Given that 173,000 Indian travellers are projected to visit LA by 2023, strategic trade and consumer initiatives are being explored as part of their long term plan for the market. Kathy adds, “We want to introduce the vast array of immersive and engaging offerings that the destination has to the prospective Indian traveller, while also familiarising them with our geographical spread and stimulating culture. Given synergies between Indian consumer preferences and our core destination

offerings of arts and culture, culinary, outdoor and wellness and sports and entertainment, we intend on accentuating these in the market. We are aiming at creating a distinct and relatable identity for the destination in the minds of the Indian traveller through targeted media and brand partnerships, content curation and influencer advocacy programmes.”

In March, the tourism board rolled-out a digital campaign with popular celebrity Sonam Kapoor and her husband Anand Ahuja. They are also focused on product development and will be looking at strategic and targeted joint marketing associations with various trade partners.

As it was evident from the movie, ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’, Spain has rich and varied culture just like India. Spain is

a country of fiestas and festivals. Each city, town or village, no matter how small, have their own unique celebrations making Spain a friendly and an experiential destination. Many of their festivals are popular all over the world and they correlate with many Indian festivals. For example, La Tomatina (Tomato Fight) of Buñol is much related with the most-celebrated festival of Holi in India during which they play with water and fancy colours. Spain has the castellers, which are human castles, something very similar to the Govinda (Dahi Handi) festival of India which makes an ideal ground for the young Indian traveller.

“Digitisation is leading the way for travel and tourism industry in India and we feel it is evolving rapidly and is the future for travel

decision making. Also, we are exploring to connect with the millennial this year which we believe is a consumer group having high disposable incomes, is more aware of different tourist destinations, and is more willing to experiment and have more lifestyle choice. This new consumer group will continue to drive our growth in 2019,” explains Miguel-Nieto Sandoval.

They have already registered a good number of visas to Spain during the upcoming peak holiday season. While they look forward to this number catapulting in the coming years as and when the Indian traveller becomes more and more aware about their destination and the various tourist benefits it has offer for each and every kind of traveller.

Gastronomy is an integral aspect of Spain and India; they do not just ‘eat the food’ but ‘live the food’. Spain is synonymous with being

par excellence when it comes to its varied gastronomic offerings that differ from region to region. On this Miguel speaks, “We would like to share that there’s a new Spanish Capital of Gastronomy for 2019, and it’s Almeria (in the region of Andalusia). The southern city was chosen for many reasons; among them is its unique and exceptional culinary offer that combines land and sea. Holding this prestigious title implies a busy year for the city, and more than 300 gastronomic activities are already planned. This, in turn, will help stimulate gastronomic tourism to the city and to Spain.”

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The success weaver millennialsWith new travel enthusiasts coming in the travel frame, the industry is showing a new

picture altogether. Coming up with different techniques, ideas and giving a new definition to travel, these millenials are all set to make their distinctive place in the heart of travel

trade industry. Let’s have a look… Bharti Sharma

Arjun Mukundd Senior Engagement Manager- Tourism RepresentationsT&A Consulting

Nishant GulliyaManaging Director & CEO, Q’rius Connect

Niche and unique concept, long term focused action plan, fully committed and

passionate team and a good network are the key elements for starting and running a successful business.

With 360 million smartphone users in India, travellers indeed have become wiser and empowered by digital tools. Thanks to easy access to the internet. Plethora of options and flexibility at the fingertips of travellers is already leading to a new era. Those with new stories to tell are marketing immersive experiences that build relationships with people, places, culture, and community over Instagram-worthy photo ops and mass touring. Experiences are given a focus. It could be learning to cook a local meal or a walking tour, what makes it unique is what matters. International pre-wedding shots, bachelor/bachelorette

parties, birthday parties, babymoon – people are making reasons to travel and not looking for reasons.

I got an access to a mobile phone when I was in the first year of college. Today, my niece who is six years old is asking me to gift her mobile phone or an iPad for her birthday. Youngsters are already exposed to technology and internet. They are more aware than most of us and they are the key decision makers of a holiday. They are full of energy, ideas and passion. With 50 per cent of the population under the age of 25, of course the youth needs to take a step forward and urge youngsters with creative blend of mind to use technology as a tool for success. Young at heart senior citizens – empty nesters have got all the time in the world and travel is becoming a hobby that they’re picking up these days.

The curiosity and vis a vis knowledge have significantly changed the overall

travel trend with a sharp rise in the growth of tourists. All the knowledge and research are derived from technology which has become an integral part of a traveller’s DNA and it plays a most influential role apart from other factors like word of mouth publicity or a reference from friends or family. The main categories leading to an overall growth is the business travellers, leisure and VFR. Also, a huge potential can be realised in MICE segment as corporates has become keener to consider international destinations for their MICE movements. Whereas, international destination weddings and tailor-made holidays have shown a significant growth over the past half a decade. In the foreseeable future, travel industry is expected only to grow, and Indian travellers especially millennials are likely to embrace it heartily.

You have to hold a passion and confidence in your thoughts and plans when you want to execute them. A different attitude towards challenges, hurdles and failures will always work well. Consistency, ethics, long

term approach, dedication, accountability and curiosity are something that plays a key role. I am sure these work well for everyone. There would be all set of people around, who will appreciate or depreciate and compete. For me, all are equally respected and loved.

Being a passionate marketeer, I strongly feel that innovation and development goes hand in hand. New ideas and thoughts are what make you more synchronised and that’s how you tend to stand different. Today, we see young travellers are emerging as avid travellers, so an effective communication plays a vital role when you promote or offer a product, simultaneously consistent changes are important in order to bring out the best. I live for passion and dedication, which I am sure drives the other young entrepreneurs and executives too. Every young mind should possess a promising nature towards their responsibility and valuable contributions to the industry. Things have been positive and good, so I am not really keen to go back and reshuffle, rather I look forward and try to be consistent. I have a message for all the young leaders- Just Stay Q’rius.

“Youngsters are full of energy, ideas and passion”

“Consistency, ethics and curiosity work for everyone”

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Yuji UenoDeputy Director

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Delhi

Office

Biswajeet KarmakarSales DirectorGuiddoo World

Neeraj GuptaDirector

Peekay Holidays

I’m working as JNTO Officer from young age, but nowadays tourism trend is being

set by young generation. When it comes to international travel, young generation gather the information about sightseeing spot and events from our smart phones. Sometime, we use SNS to share that experience with friends. To know what Indian young people want to do, I need to think what I want to do and what experience grasp me. This perspective is most important.

Indian millennials are major contributor for setting up trends, changing the way travellers seek information or communicate or influence others and leading to decisions that are more

independent. All this together has changed the business landscape of Indian travel and tourism industry. In response to this effect, we will concentrate on media mix to enhance the awareness of Japan and introduce new activity in Japan like a summer festival and new destination such as Okinawa and Tohoku, which Indian travellers do not know. Okinawa is the best place for honeymoon, wedding and even for MICE activity.

Previously, Indian traveller was heavily dependent on the traditional travel agents and today, prospective travellers can have access to professional travel services directly through mobile phones.

Focus on your niche segment and getting things right which can be scaled are key

ingredients to starting and running a business. Post this a good team is the most essential element that can add thrust behind your growth. There are two main things that I see is happening on the travel space-increase affluence and cash spending power which will boost travel in India and secondly, the rise of the independent traveller who wants to experience destinations at his own pace on his own taste. Overall this I believe will lead to the increase in the overall pie as well as reconfiguration of group vs independent travel.

The industry is definitely in need of innovation and niche creation. It is not just about using

innovation to come with great consumer facing solutions but also things that will help optimise the structural problems of the travel industry. Use of big data for trend analyzing and customisation, use of AI to provide 24/7 service support or product discoveries by consumer data analysis are some of the points that come to my mind as innovations still missing.

I would love to time our pivot from an audio guiding model to the transactional model that we are in. We did the pivot two years back, a little earlier would have been a big time saver. In my opinion travel is the new black, it is definitely a big industry just that we need to find our niches and add technology band data to grow faster.

Today starting a travel company is very easy, there are multiple platforms which instantly

support new comers and help them become a professional. But, the key to success is definitely perseverance. Every business has challenges but in our travel profession, every challenge is unique since there are factors sometimes that are beyond our controls to fix as we rely majorly on our partners for everything, right from the flight tickets to the ground handling. So, it is very important to have the right partners and good PR skills to establish a successful and smooth flow of business.

Then, I feel is that your team at work as we call them are key players are most important since every part of the organisation has to synchronise well in order for the establishment to function well and grow in the right path. It is always the unique plan and ideas of a holiday that you can offer your client which will differentiate you from the competition and in order to achieve the knowledge I strongly recommend one has to go, do a firsthand research of a destination and gain the experience himself to be able to stand out from the crowd and offer something out of the ordinary.

I feel that our industry definitely needs to have some ethics and rules and regulations to follow, there have to be some norms of being a part of the industry and to start an establishment. The new generation is all about social media and exploring

new destinations, hence we as travel professionals must be able to cater to the demands but without negotiating on our values of what we deserve. We need to form some sort of unity for the hard-work and efforts that we put in to create unique ideas and exclusive itineraries for every individual. I believe that if we all start with a uniform consultation fees from our client’s the business would be better and more serious and efficient. This is a serious step I wish that everyone today in the profession considers seriously just like how other professions charge their clients.

Travel industry is always a changing profession, the trend keeps changing and updating every year almost now. There is frankly nothing to go back in time and change since everything that is happening is for the good I feel. Client’s are more aware about destination these days which is a good factor since we get to work on some extra ordinary holiday plans other than the run of the mill itinerary. It is always going to be better for the India market in the coming years since the outbound market is only going to be increase more and more. The industry has become a world of exposure through technology, everything is easily available to compare research and then decide but I feel that over the years to come nothing can match the true human element and the personal touch that a professional can offer to make a holiday memorable and unique.

“Indian millennials are major contributor for setting up trends”

“Travel is the new black”

“The key to success is definitely perseverance”

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Summer outbound travel fuelled by passion and experiences for Indian travellers

Summer holidays are not limited only to families, but the trade also sees a rise in India’s passion seeking travellers. These travellers seek experiential holidays ranging from outdoor adventure, cuisine-culinary, photography, art and culture seekers and plenty more. TTJ tries to understand

from the travel fraternity about new and emerging outbound travel trends and moods of the travellers in the upcoming holiday season.

Prashant Nayak

The summer vacation season coinciding with school holidays sees significant demand for long-haul destinations such as

Europe, Australia, New Zealand and the USA. For families looking to indulge in a short holiday and last-minute bookers, no-visa or easy visa regime destinations are hence in high demand, such as Dubai-Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bali, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Summers are also the preferred time for cruise holidays as families now prefer destinations that have kid-friendly beaches, clear seas, favourable weather and an adequate list of enjoyable activities. Also, for the upcoming school holiday season, families are showing an increased interest in destinations with popular theme parks such as the Warner Bros theme park in Abu Dhabi, IMG Worlds of Adventure in Dubai, Disneyland in Hong Kong and The Universal Studio in Singapore.

On popular summer destinations, Anand Menon, Brand Leader, Travel Tours, Leisure Travel Brand of FCM Travel Solutions opines, “Attractive offerings like the visa-on-arrival facility at international destinations such as Indonesia and Thailand along with other driving factors such as increased connectivity, proximity, attractive airfares, etc, make them favoured destinations amongst holiday-goers. Dubai, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Singapore continue to garner demand and popularity as they have a bit of everything for families as well as couples. A lot of travellers booking their holidays through Travel Tours are also heading to the tranquil beaches in Seychelles. The more adventurous travellers are opting to scuba dive at the

Great Barrier Reef in Australia or spend the night in the great outdoors during night safaris in Kenya.”

Anand is also of the opinion that new travel trends and preferences help the industry overall as they entice travellers to explore more destinations. Changing traveller preferences and trends from international festivals, movies and social media also help them come up with attractive summer holiday packages that suit every pocket and are easily customisable.

On the other hand, Rajeev D Kale, President & Country Head- Holidays, MICE, Visa & Passport Services, Thomas Cook India has seen a series of changing pattern for summer travel. “Feedback from customers is always the key and helps design and customise our offerings, keeping in tune with the changing consumer palette. We do not see it as a compulsion, but rather as an enabler for providing delightful new experiences. Further technology (in terms of online bookings, destination reviews etc.) and changing growing consumer propensity to spend is also driving change. We are also always mindful of the developing new segments of travellers including millennials/the DINKs-SINKs segment and ad-hoc groups of friends and families demand a special focus.”

Having recognised India’s high potential segment of women travellers, they have also recently launched an exclusive Ladies First, women-only group tours, to popular domestic and international destinations. The children too are increasingly becoming the protagonist in the travel story and hence this was the

genesis of our launch of ‘Theme Park Tours’ that are seeing delightful demand from families.

Rajeev further adds. “We are also seeing a strong uptake for ‘selfie-travel’ among India’s working millenials where photo ops are being maximised to showcase the traveller; an iconic monument or scenic destination. As a result, an increasing emphasis on non-traditional elements being selected as part of the itinerary are ‘wow factors’; adding to the brag-worthy quotient of the traveller. These travellers are showing strong preference for non-standard or quirky experiences such as kite surfing in the Philippines, fissure snorkelling in Iceland or unique accommodation such as ice hotels/caves or a lighthouse, and all forming part of instagram/facebook live, gopro, you tube clips. Additionally, we are seeing a rise in demand for experiential travel among corporates, apart from conventional sightseeing. Examples include off-roading, zip-lining, helicopter tours, etc.”

Travel is now being fuelled by brag worthy experiences such as chasing the Aurora Borealis (northern lights) in Finland, adrenaline infused elements such as an F1 drive around Yas Island’s Marina circuit, or decadent food and wine tours in France and Italy. Young India is displaying increased appetite for the esoteric and hence strong demand for vespa/luge rides in Singapore, pool parties in Las Vegas, staying in a tree house in Malaysia or learning Muay Thai/kick boxing in Thailand. Festival tourism seems to be the new buzz word for India’s new age travellers as the Indian traveller seeks to

Anand Menon Rajeev D Kale Karan Anand

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combine spiritual elements with unique cultural experiences such as Songkran in Thailand, Mardi Gras in the US or the Carnival in Brazil/Venice Italy.

“Outbound travel during summer has been on growth trajectory since the past few years owing to the high disposable income and improved air connectivity. In the last one year, many new international routes have been introduced such as- Mumbai to Milan, Frankfurt, New York, Manchester, Phuket and Male, Bangalore to London, Pune to Singapore, Delhi to Hong Kong, Ahmedabad to Abu Dhabi, Chennai to Kuwait, Kolkata to Bangkok and so on. Since it’s the opportune time for family, vacation travellers don’t want to miss their chance to travel in this period. Considering these factors, we expect outbound leisure travel to pick up by another 22 per cent this season,” tells Karan Anand, Head, Relationships, Cox & Kings.

At Cox & Kings, though the destinations remain same, fresh itineraries are curated every year to match up to the current trends and tastes of customers and to enhance their experience. For example, all inclusive, fully loaded itineraries with lot of sightseeing and child-friendly activities cruise holidays and exotic international destinations are likely to drive the demand during summer. At the same time, they also add some of the most unconventional and off the track travel experiences in their scheme of holidays for novelty seeking travellers.

Indians are known to be smart travellers, especially when it comes to choosing destinations. The smart Indian traveller is constantly on the lookout for best bargains on tickets, combo deals, etc to maximise the value for time and money basis which they choose their holiday destinations. Daniel D’Souza, President and Country Head (Leisure), SOTC Travel shares, “As the summer season witnesses an increase in family tours, these destinations become apt choices as they offer unique experiences catering to different age groups. With short haul destinations finding swift favour, destinations such as Singapore, Thailand and Maldives are becoming more family-friendly. The Indian consumer today, looks for value driven packages. Therefore, destinations with visa-on-arrival facilities,

discounted airfares, and accommodation are most sought after; because they are value for money.”

SOTC recently launched ‘On The Go’, a travel service for personalised tours. The portal captures the best a region has to offer, and curates it to suit the travellers’ needs. They go extra mile by helping the travellers add something to their itinerary, even while they are on their holiday. Such innovations are always at the core of SOTC strategy. Having launched their summer products (Summer 2019) early last year in October, their bookings display a vibrant growth led by long haul destinations like Europe, the USA which have shown good momentum.

On asked about, if new travelling trends and preferences of their customers which changes year on year, compels them in regularly strategising to meet their targets in the outbound business? Maitreyee Patel, Director, Pathfinder Holidays, says, “Yes! It does compel us to keep upping our product knowledge and awareness of a destination constantly. In fact, I will say that it is a continuous process and we have to keep updating and collaborating with newer attractions, products, partners who can offer alternate tours, etc, for our clients. The clients are truly looking at very interesting experiences to include in their itinerary. To keep ourselves updated, we have to keep travelling regularly and invest time and money to attend different destination travel marts, exhibitions international trade fairs, travel exhibitions, tourism board invited fam trips etc, as this is very important and critical to the nature of business.”

Being an optimist and from the last so many years of experience, Maitreyee feels the trend is going to be good and they expect a good and favourable outbound tour season for sure even this summer. However, the National Elections have come at a wrong time for the outbound industry as the voting dates are all in April end. So this should have a slight impact in slowing down the flow, but only temporarily. And after the results are declared on May 23, it will be business as usual and normal.

Vinay Agarwal, Director, Business Development, Victoria Travels, shares

his point of view, “There is no doubt that the pie for outbound travel continues to grow at a fast pace but the very visible change in customer behaviour is that we now see a very discerning Indian traveller emerging – particular choice of accommodation (based on location, room size, amenities etc), bespoke tours, cultural immersion, local food and nightlife experiences are now part of most itinerary discussions and not just restricted to the high end traveller. As the annual or half yearly family vacation ritual is becoming popular – travellers are now willing to explore new and uncommon destinations. We also notice that niche categories such as solo travel, bachelor/bachelorette trips, special interest groups focused on sports, photography, road trips, etc are becoming more mainstream opening up new avenues for outbound agencies. Overall we see healthy growth in the upcoming season and are very optimistic on what the future holds for us.”

Vinay also points out some other changing outbound trends as he mentions, “The best part about the outbound market from India is that currently we are seeing demand growth at all price point levels – primarily on account of the customer moving up the value chain and large new additions happening at the bottom of the value chain. For example customers who are already well travelled through mainstream Europe/US are choosing more bespoke destinations such as Malta/Lake Como (after the famous weddings)/Monte Carlo/ Montreux, Scandinavian Countries, Iceland, etc. Customers that have done the Far East, etc, are now looking at Europe – for the first timers in Europe – Prague, Budapest, Vienna Romania, etc, are becoming popular other than the regular Amsterdam, Paris and Switzerland route. With new flights coming in, locations such as Turkey are now seeing longer eight-10 days itineraries instead of the usual three-four days Istanbul stopover. The Far East market continues to grow on account of large number of people moving up the value chain from domestic/local tours. We have seen a very healthy growth on cruises – both the shorter tenor ones from Singapore and Hong Kong and even on the longer tenor ones in the Mediterranean and Alaska.”

Daniel D’Souza Maitreyee Patel Vinay Agarwal

Manish Synghal Alefiya Singh Terence Cardoz Vishal Chawla

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These DMC’s provide destination experiences that go beyond the ordinary and expected

In the outbound business, DMCs (Destination Management Companies) play an important and a prominent role in travel comforts. They provide a hassle free event and tour

experience through their resources. Any DMC has to maintain in-depth knowledge of the country they represent. The skill sets and experience needed for this business has to be unique. TTJ speaks to a few DMC’s to understand their valuable offerings which stand

them apart and which brings out maximum benefit to their clients.Prashant Nayak

Manish Synghal, Chairman and MD, Dimaz DMC

Dimaz DMC handles customised individual and group travel packages, MICE, film shootings, fixed group departures, visa assistance to Russia and former USSR countries. Promoters of Dimaz DMC have vast experience of more than two decades in Russia and CIS countries related to travel and tourism. Dimaz DMC is known for its high quality and standard of professional international travel related services.

The number of Indian travellers to Russia and former USSR countries is increasing day by day and these beautiful and tourist friendly destinations have become very popular among Indians. There is a good growth of MICE and shooting of Bollywood films in these countries in past few years. Dimaz DMC has been promoting b2b outbound travel to Russia and CIS countries since the year 2012, and every year the growth is around 20 per cent. We have preferred partners in different regions in India and we take active part in exhibitions and roadshows in metro, tier II and III cities for one to one interaction with the local travel agents to brief them about our travel packages, provide all necessary information related to the destinations managed by Dimaz DMC enabling them to promote these destinations in their respective regions. We do active online marketing as well.Alefiya Singh, Director, Iris Reps

We represent renowned International DMC’s such as Tour Managers, Fiji, who owns and operates its own fleet of deluxe transport and offers a variety of custom made destination packages. Yatule Resort and Spa is located

on Fiji’s famous Natadola Beach is owned by Tour managers, also provide limousine transfers. IMT, Greece are specialised in planning, organising and running incentives, conferences, special events, leisure travel and shore excursions in Greece. Pacific Pearl is New Zealand based DMC which only employs specialised staff who are highly skilled and multi lingual with intimate knowledge of New Zealand and Australia, so we can cater the diverse tourist market.VFC Tours and Travel, Philippines has established its presence in India market by delivering exceptional services in many groups operating in the Philippines. Millennium Tours, Azerbaijan, is one of the largest companies in Azerbaijan, which has over 12 years’ experience of successful work in the field of tourism. So instead of trying to compete, we focus on pointing out the unique benefits of our services. We have established a niche travel market for our products, which means, we are selling something that no one else sells, and that is why our product is different in some ways.Terence Cardoz, Managing Director, Divine Holiday Management

We are specialist for worldwide holidays for FITs, groups, MICE, events, cruises, student groups, Industry visits, medical tourism, spiritual tours, destination weddings and film shoots. Our main USP is film tourism. We are also getting into beauty pageants are doing the finale for ‘Glamour faces Miss World 2019’ this October in the Philippines. Contestants form more than 40 countries will compete in the finale. We are also doing Indian and international films in different countries.

Clients are looking for new and affordable destination, so we have to keep looking for new destinations that we can promote to our clients. We use social media and also regular marketing e-mails to our existing clients and also new clients giving them our offerings.Vishal Chawla, Director, 1 Above, Russia

Our company provides full services for all type of travellers for FIT, MICE groups and leisure groups such as visa support letters (electronic and original), accommodation services starting from budget hotels to luxury hotels, meal services for vegetarians and non-vegetarians, internal travel services by air, bullet trains, night trains or by coach. All type of sightseeing and entertainments such as cruises, hot air balloon ride, tank rides, helicopter rides, horse carriage rides, etc in Russia.

Due to rapidly growing demand for travel to Russia (especially after FIFA 2018), the company keeps increasing internal structure starting from sales to the operations team. As for external measures – the main targets are to study the market in terms of newly opened hotels, restaurants (suitable for Indian clients), and new places of entertainment to keep the travel product diverse and updated. In terms of product development, Russia keeps growing in terms of more cities to become places of attraction with built infrastructure, comfortable connections, known chains of hotels with international standards; so we keep our inspection visits schedule full in off season in order to be able to keep offering new places of interest which provide best experience for our clients.

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How to make more money selling cruises?

It is a well known fact that cruises offer an all inclusive vacation option which could seldom be replicated on a land

option. Another well known fact is that even the most discrete passengers also always come back with positive feedback after going on a cruise. Still, we notice that despite the wide

acceptance of cruises as a holiday option for honeymooners, couples, young families and even for corporate groups, there

is a very small percentage of agents which are proactively promoting cruises amongst their client base. The reasons could be many, but, the result is same – passengers looking at cruise

vacation opt for the online route to ascertain their choices or reach out to the few travel agents who could professionally

assist them in finalising their cruise vacation.Nishith Saxena, Founder & Director, Cruise Professionals

Instead of providing a complicated solution to agents, I have a three step formula which could help them become cruise sellers in a very

short time on a PILOT basis and then, they could eventually take up promotion of cruises seriously and on a regular basis.

Identify and invest The agency which wants to promote

cruises on a sustainable basis needs to first identify the regions which could be promoted by the agency - ideally a good combination would be of one popular regional destination (Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia or Dubai) with one newer destination in the portfolio which the agency is not promoting but is a potential destination for the agency (Alaska, British Isle, Scandinavia, Japan or Norway). Once the agency has identified these two regions, then the agency needs to invest time and energy in understanding both these regions from a cruising perspective – which cruise lines operate there, duration of the itineraries, learning about different ports, shore excursions and onboard experience. Most of this could be done without any initial help from the cruise lines or their representatives.

Connect with the Cruise LineNext step for the agency is to

connect with cruise lines local representatives – as most international cruise lines fiercely protect their GSA’s due to the investments made and distribution established over years, it is a folly to surpass the GSA distribution

system. The ultimate objective of any cruise line is to increase sales from various source markets and India is one of the important ones. The interaction between the agency and the cruise line GSA should be on the lines of enhancing the already existing business by agency taking identified and measurable steps in collaboration with the cruise line GSA. One of the most effective ways to make a difference is to take space blocks for a few departure of the same itinerary and start promoting this on ‘Cruise Only’ basis or through ‘Fixed Departure Package Route’. This ensure better pricing and better commercials for the agency in most cases.

Market aggressively and review constantly

Once the agency has the space blocks, than the cruise offering is the ‘Product’ literally owned by the agency, hence to sell the inventory, the agency must use all possible channels for this to be consumed. Normally, all cruise lines are willing to provide customised destination videos, e-mail templates, images which could be sourced by the agency and used for conventional as well as new-age marketing. The marketing efforts must be shared and evaluated on a weekly basis and tweaked if necessary and so should be the space blocks. No cruise line would want the agent to lose money on cancellations for unutilised space –therefore a proper review cycle must be followed to minimise the financial risk to the agent as well as the cruise line.

Always remember, the cruise passengers are seeking agents who are proactive and knowledgeable about cruising. If the agents which are keen to follow the above steps, there are greater chances of success compared to someone who is reacting to passenger’s requirements in an unprepared manner. This process also ensures that the agency is continuously enhancing its cruise portfolio and is engaging with its customers more often with newer offerings. It is only a matter of tasting success once in this PILOT project after which replicating this on various other cruise lines and different destinations to produce greater cruise sales is just a matter of choice.

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A trendsetter in the art of

selling cruisesThere were many times that I have met Kishan Biyani, Director,

Ark Travels and each time he has left an impact on me as a dynamic go getter, a person who exudes charisma and a man with an easy approach which brings out confidence in others.

He is known for his selling skill and excellent interpersonal relationships. He is now the master of cruise sales in India and is recognised for his innovative cruise concepts. TTJ wanted

to know more about this gentleman who is popular in the travel fraternity and when the opportunity came it was interesting to find more from the person himself on the many aspects of cruising and

about his personal life.Ravi Sharma

Recently, Ark Travels achieved a milestone by being the first Indian PSA to send 50,000 passengers

from India to travel on board the fleet of Genting Cruise Lines comprising of Star Cruises and Dream Cruises. Kishan seems to be an instrumental person behind this achievement with full support from his great team, Cruise Principals and their big set of retail travel partners. No doubt, it was a collective and collaborated achievement.

Kishan attracts people with his pleasant disposition and accessibility. Though, he looks modest, he is very enterprising and truly aggressive in his business sense. This acumen comes from his family business of textiles and he has been into it from over 20 years now. Though, he is full time into the travel business, he does give a helping hand to his textile business whenever required.

The travel quotient was not much embedded into Kishan’s mind back in 1997, when he had ventured into the travel business. He was a sleeping partner then. It was in 2007 when the cricket world cup took place, that Kishan felt the excitement and began to feel the impact of travel. At that time, Kishan was 50 per cent owner of Guideline Travels before they split in 2009. Afterwards, Kishan moved to Ark Travels of the Tandon’s and there is no looking back. Now, over 18 years into travel, his name is synonymous with Star Cruises in the travel agents fraternity.

“I have been a marketing and a

sales guy from the beginning. One fine day, the excitement of cruise took over me as it sounded like a new selling concept and very few were interested in cruise marketing and sales. The cruise business done was also different in India then. As the passion continued, I took it as a challenge and tried looking into minute details of cruising. I did achieved appreciable numbers but for more numbers. I also learnt that you had to change the way you sell and thus started creating themes and parties over the years with multi-dimensional facets such as India nights, rain dance, holi celebrations, neon parties, etc. Not all innovations work, but out of the six to seven party or themes three or four always get successful which are adept for cruising,” confides Kishan.

It is very evident, that the innovative ideas have led to the growth of Ark Travels in the last one decade. Kishan is very optimistic about the future of cruise tourism in India. Back in 2009 around 50,000 passengers did cruising and they were the fly-cruise module. Now, India must be doing at least 2,00,000 passengers per year.

Kishan shares, “In 2007 cruising got bigger in India with advent of Star Cruises. People experienced it, loved it and the market started growing. However, considering the total population of our country, the one per cent mark still remains untouched. So that is how big the potential and scope is. Even now out of 2,00,000 cruise passengers or so in India there are 1,60,000 going exclusive to Singapore for the sails, out of which we do

around 55,000 or so. With all sailings put together, we do around 60,000 passengers. So looking at the vibrancy and the concept of cruising opening up, there is huge potential in the market where growth can be in double digit. 4,00,000 passengers should not be a big problem in the next three to four years.”

Indeed, it looks like a big opportunity, but Kishan also believes that there is no focus on cruising in the travel trade. However, by focussing in one product they can enhance their business manifold. There are many examples to be taken when business is focused, Kishan stands to be a specialist and master of the product. Cruise is one concept that even a small player can optimise in the present context but it is only that he has to be focused.

Adding to the potential is domestic cruising with companies such as Jalesh Cruises is all set up to take the India market by storm. On this Kishan remarks, “Surely, Jalesh should excite people without passports or the corporates where they do not have the policy for international incentive travel. Definitely, it will create a different segment and make an impact on local travellers. However, India is not developed in many numbers of ports. Amazing destinations such as Andamans and Lakhswadeep are the kind of an essence for our local cruise itineraries. Lack of ports makes it difficult for long sailing itineraries. So for us, it is now time to wait and watch.”

Everyone is amazed at Kishan’s energies and synergies which one can

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see in Ark Travel’s trade networking or events either on ships or on land. He can be seen partying till the wee hours of the morning but he will also ensure the all the partners are there at breakfast and for the next day sessions. In his speeches too, you can feel the motivational factors which sincerely enlighten you and bond people together. He just likes the word ‘chartering’ and loves the challenges and thrill elements in taking up the monumental task.

It is interesting to note how Kishan responds to his image as a fun loving person and a team builder. He tells, “When I invite people, I am completely devoted to them for that three or four days. It’s like calling them to a wedding where great hospitality and personalised service ensure to everyone. In each of my travel events, trying to the my partners understand that along with enjoyment, there is a learning of doing business with the concept thrown before them. It’s a plain and simple business module but looks glamorous. I am here to showcase business and motivate them. And at the same time, partners should get invigorated and take benefit from the experience. So to tell the truth, I get energy purely from my travel partners being present who in turn take it to the next level. In fact, they are my motivators. Their presence keeps

me going. It is like singing on a stage where you perform better when you get that boost.”

However, Kishan has great gratitude for Genting Cruises and respect for Naresh Rawal who looks after the India operation of Genting Cruises. “Naresh is a wonderful person and has always been a good friend for long. He is also a pillar and support in whatever risk is taken on his ships. If I walk a step, he will walk two steps nearer. A clap is a result of two hands and that is the bonding we have. I have always been a risky player for him but he knows that it is this kind of risk which brings out results. We get complete support from him and his team for all our endeavours and that keeps us going and in doing more business with them,” concludes Kishan.

Advices: If you buy cheap don’t sell cheap. Sell at the market price.

Control the finances and don’t get into rolling finances. Get updated with technology. This will help to earn even from home. Be focussed in business and try to be a specialist.

Best Sailing experience ever: Copenhagen to Russia covering five countries

Favourite Cruise Ship: Genting Dream and Norwegian Epic

Favourite time of the day: Early in the morning when I sit with my wife for tea and it is a quality time for me for an hour at least and I make it compulsory, if not travelling

Holidays: Two holidays in a year, one of 10-12 days and other is of 6-7 days. I am quite bonded with my family.

Hobbies: I am crazy about movies and take inspiration from them. Even the dumbest movies have something as inspiration. 3 Idiots is my all time favourite

Responsibilities: A huge one is taking care of the staff and their needs. I cannot see them in trouble of any kind and always there for them

Dream: To fly-cruise 1, 00,000 passengers by 2022 and have also thought of chartering Genting Dream for 3,500 passengers in one go

Nostalgia: To charter and relive those three days onboard Super Star Gemini in 2017 and when everybody was in the swimming pools in their coats and tuxedos late in the night.

Giving back to the society: In 2001, I had opened a girls school in Rajasthan where around 600 girls are studying and presently, I wish to open a Gurdashram with a piece of land which I own.

Khalid GoriCOO, Ark Travels

I and Kishanji enjoy a jovial

relation of almost 19 years. Looking back at those years, only thing

that can be said is that Kishan ji is a Man-of-Moments. I believe Kishanji’s family business has helped him to gain essential qualities to sustain in competitive industry such as cruise travel. Selling a cruise to price sensitive Indians was never an easy task, but with the strategies backed by powerful sales team and propositions set to approach the market, selling cruises to the same clientele became a cakewalk. The positive approach, the eagerness to learn new things every day, sense of creativity, sense of humour, sense of party, his capability to take bull by its horns sets him apart among its peers. His farsightedness, decisions, the way he takes along his family/friends and team together is commendable. However, his business calculation is what I am always fond off.

Naresh RawalVice President, Sales and Marketing, Asia Pacific, Genting Cruise lines.

I would say most important,

business acumen is something that is acquired by enhancing one’s awareness of key skills required for better management and leadership. He has an innate ability to see the bigger picture to lead his team on the forefront. Kishan has been able to master over years and hence is a recognised persona in Cruise Sales in India. The dedication of Genting Cruise lines towards our partner such as Ark Travels, the efforts and the constant go getter attitude of Kishan and his team is the key element of this partnership to grow and bloom. A formidable relation from a business perspective is very well set and we hope that the graph only climbs up with the leadership that both the brands recognise and synergise.

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With Indians on cruising mode, a great time to be a cruise specialist

We are now witnessing that the Indian travellers are opening themselves to the concept of cruising and geared up to understand various outbound cruising destinations and venturing out

to a lot of offbeat cruising too.TTJ interacts with some of the cruise operators and specialists who speak about the positive growing trend of Indians opting cruise and also letting us know, if

the travel fraternity has scope in cruise marketing or being a cruise specialist?Prashant Nayak

The Indian mind is beginning to evaluate a cruise as a perfect holiday and is on the bucket list of many travellers

whereby they are either combining it with a land package or just taking a fly+cruise package. The main reason Indians love the concept of cruising is because they enjoy the plethora of food options, entertainment, and ease of traveling to multiple ports without packing/unpacking and attractive pricing making it a great value for money vacation.

Kunal Sampat, GM, MSC Cruise, India, tells, “Indian travellers are still warming up to the concept of cruising and do have certain inhibitions on how comfortable a cruise holiday can be. We are sure with the way cruise holidays are picking up, these inhibitions or perceptions about cruising being an expensive affair as compared to land holidays will subside. We are quite happy that forward bookings started very early for summer 2019, which is a sign that Indian travellers are slowly realising the importance of booking their travel arrangements in advance. We have a healthy mix of both individual travellers

as well as group bookings (including MICE and leisure groups).”

The cruise industry across the world is growing at 5 - 10 per cent p.a. For India the growth is healthier at 15 - 20 per cent pa. With the coming of a domestic cruise company home ported in Mumbai, the Cruise numbers in 2019 ex- India are likely to increase by nearly 40 per cent. It is seen that the common Indian traveller is gradually getting over the stigma and fear associated with a cruise holiday. With more options available closer to home, Indians are now ready for cruising in a bigger way.

On the same, Manoj Saraf, MD, Gainwell Travels opines, “In the upcoming holiday season, Cruise tourism in India is set to boom. Jalesh Cruises are all set to make its debut from Mumbai in mid April. Being a domestic product, Jalesh Cruises alone is targeting two lakh passengers in the first year along with outbound itineraries. Thus, the total cruise market from India is projected to grow at nearly 100 per cent in 2019-20.”

“A cruise vacation today is very aspirational for any Indian traveller

considering an overseas vacation. It can be a cruise in South East Asia, Far East, Mediterranean, Caribbean or Alaska it is definitely on the to do list. The Indian traveller today looks at an experiential vacation, and is actively pursuing longer itineraries and higher categories of onboard accommodation,” speaks Gurjit Singh Ahuja, Head - Cruises & Alliances, TBO Group. Summer vacations in India is always a super busy time and cruise vacations are no exception. “Cruises from traditional cruise ports of Singapore, Hong Kong, Barcelona, Venice, and Seattle are in high demand. Now with Jalesh Cruises positioning their ship Karnika, out of Mumbai, the Indian traveller’s exposure to cruising will be further enhanced. We are very positive on cruises this season,” adds Gurjit.

By and large the Indians still see cruising as a purely ocean experience, however the regular Indian outbound travellers are now opting for cruising as a complete vacation option and not only a part of their holiday as they would do earlier. They are now seeing cruising as a unique vacation combination of leisure and adventure.

Kunal Sampat Manoj Saraf Gurjit Singh Ahuja Ian Banerjee

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Ian Banerjee, Director, Global Anchor Cruises, remarks, “The outbound market has been showing very positive signs. Last year, we had stellar advance bookings for the current year. Of course, the popular Alaska, Baltic and Europe are much in demand but we have seen a spike in Antarctica and river cruise bookings too. To add to this, there is great excitement for India’s first luxury cruise line (Jalesh Cruises) which I believe will introduce the culture of cruise vacationing to the Indian travellers.”

However, in the Indian cruising context, a lot has to be done on perception of cruising. There are many myths that cruising is only for the elderly, or cruising is only for the ultra-rich and that sea sickness is a big problem. These myths need to be challenged by the trade and media. Cruises in India need to grow substantially. First, this can be made possible with the help of convenient and accessible port infrastructure. Secondly, improvement in sufficient passenger services such as quick immigration and security through cruise terminals will go a long way to help especially in port cities such as Mumbai, Goa and Kochi.

Kunal Sampat: Every travel agent or trade partner has a potential to be a cruise specialist. It all depends on their inclination on how they would like to generate more revenue for themselves by selling cruises which pays the highest commission amongst all other verticals of the travel trade.

Gurjit Singh Ahuja: With air tickets and hotel accommodation now being almost commoditised a travel agent has to actively pursue other options to make up for lost earnings. Being a cruise specialist opens up an entirely new segment and also maintains the travel agents relevancy as a cruise counselor or cruise expert.

Manoj Saraf: 15 years ago cruise sales was considered a niche market for the travel trade. Today even a small travel agent can become a

cruise specialist. Information is easily available for both seller and buyer and closing a deal is much easier.

Ian Banerjee: I strongly believe that cruising as a product is primarily for the entire travel fraternity to be able to sell regions they have never sold before. We have partners who are specialists in South East Asia or are primarily air ticket agents who are now giving us double digit guest bookings for regions like Alaska, Baltic and Europe. Cruising as an experience is all inclusive in offering (regardless of the brand) stay, food, travel and entertainment to the travellers. This enables every travel agent to be able to sell cruises with great ease. A little bit of hand holding to start with and soon travel agents get on their way to become cruise experts.

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Accor to densify its presence in existing cities

Accor Hotels spreads its silver wings with the recent opening of its 51st hotel in India. And this does not end here! Known for its world-class hospitality and network, it has a pipeline

of more than 20 signed projects. The brand’s aim is to ensure it excels in delivering the bespoke hospitality. Jean-Michel Cassé, Chief Operating Officer, India and South Asia, and Arif Patel, Vice President Sales, Marketing, Distribution & Loyalty, India and South

Asia Accor give a sneak peek on the upcoming brands and also, sheds some light on the recently concluded Acoor Showcase.

Bharti Sharma

After more than a decade of accelerated growth in India, Accor today has more than 9,500 rooms and nine

brands that have created a niche for the brand. Talking about the growing outbound market from India, Jean-Michel asserts, “For outbound, India is the biggest market in Asia Pacific. The major chunk of growth in Accor comes from the Asia Pacific market. India is the number one market for Singapore and number two for Thailand. Along with that, a good percentage growth has been witnessed in Australia as well. This summarises that Indian outbound is growing and there are a lot of opportunities and we want to grab them. With approx 21 million outbound travellers, 76 million passport holders and growing economy, India has become very significant for us. The market is expected to touch 50 million mark in next few years as they want to discover the world like the Chinese did few years ago.”

Over the years, the Accor Showcase has served as an ideal platform to ideate on working together to leverage a thriving domestic and outbound tourism market in India. He shares, “Our platform, Accor Showcase is organised every year in different cities so that our own hotels interested in India market can come here and understand the market. It’s a good story to have this exchange of views between our hotels and the India market.”

There are 25 hotels under development in the region and most of it is coming up from India. At the same time, Accor has expanded its footprints in Singapore with properties varying from mid-scale to ultra luxury and Raffles will be opening doors after renovation this year in October.

Jean-Michel truly believes that customer response and business are tied together only when your customer likes what you offer and appreciates you for creating various brands at various locations. He opines, “Our philosophy and objective is to grow by densifying in the existing cities. In Mumbai, we have two Ibis, Novotel, Sofitel and three are under development and are expected to open this year which includes Fairmont as well. Along with that, the plan is to add the core brands in the key city such as Novotel in the mid-scale and then Ibis in the economy. Accor has become the second largest operator in the luxury space globally which is giving the company more opportunity to bring these brands to India. Where there are opportunities to develop luxury brands, the first priority is to develop existing brands Sofitel, Pullman and Fairmont. In terms of new brands, we look forward to bring Raffles to India definitely.”

When Indians travel, they want to have value for money, Jean-Michel feels that Ibis is the perfect brand that way. He further shares, “Today, when

we speak about Ibis and the way Ibis has been repositioned and revamped is quirky and extremely millennial. Here, we have a temptation to say that the Indian like to have luxury but not to pay much. It’s still a very economy model and you are in the centre of the city. You find Ibis in almost every city so whether your activity is professional or leisure. In terms of online booking, Indians would be very comfortable with Ibis and Novotel brand because we have created the brand in India and they are aware of what it is.”

Talking about the recently concluded Accor Showcase, Arif Patel, tells, “Showcase has become double in three years, in terms of number of participants and number of visitors. It provides us the opportunity to present services we offer be it for the first time or the frequent guests. The tremendous feedback and turn-out for the event are the evidence of the faith and love for the Accor brand amongst our esteemed customers.”

He adds, “In terms of our point of sales activities, we have built global sales organisation and have presence in eight cities with 42 people. Currently, the hospitality industry is in its best phase as the hotels and resorts are enjoying high occupancy rates across. One of the factors is MICE and weddings as they remain key business elements for both our international and Indian properties.”

Loyalty programmes have become key elements for development and operations as their value as business drivers is significant. He comments, “The numbers of loyalty programme holders are growing at 20 per cent CAGR. We witnessed three digit growth in terms of enrollment and engagement in Le Club Accor Hotels Meeting Planner which is our b2b reward programme or loyalty programme. Corporate, tour operators, travel agents and OTAs see value in what we offer and it’s beyond any price.”

Arif PatelJean-Michel Cassé

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Are you ready to experience the lavish sea journey! This season get on to Pandaw Cruise and explore destinations with a newer perspective from different horizons. The renowned

and acclaimed Pandaw Brand reenters in India. Here’s a lookTeam TTJ

Get on to a

luxury expeditionwith Pandaw Cruise

Breaking all the barriers finally India gets its own cruising experience. Pandaw Cruise, pioneered in offering river expeditions launches three K Class ships – RV Katha,

RV Kalaw, RV Kindat which have already arrived in Kolkata on the sacred river- Ganges and all clearance have been obtained. The prettiest journey ever, a voyage on the lower Ganges or Hooghly will take you on an incredible journey full of experiences and memories. The river wends its way through the lush countryside of West Bengal with its culturally significant towns crammed with temples and palaces. A rich and vibrant rural life abounds with never a dull moment as it sedately plies pleasant waterways.

The Pandaw experience is all about exploring remote and often hard-to-navigate rivers and coasts in specifically designed luxury small ships. Each ships, hand-finished in brass and Burma teak by traditional craftmen, is itself an object of great beauty.

The secret of our success is that, whilst luxury and comfort are ever-present, on our ships it is the colonial-era character and friendly atmosphere that predominates. All our Pandaws have ultra-shallow drafts and can travel to remote areas, which are unreachable by other passenger-carrying vessels, let alone overland.

The ship is beautifully designed equipped with all necessary amenities making the journey comfortable. A Pandaw adventure is very different from that offered on an ocean-going cruise. The ships are small scale, and the atmosphere is informal and very friendly. On arrival, the guests are welcomed with open arms and the crew is on their toes making your journey a lifetime experience.

A familarisation tour will be shortly organised and founder of Pandaw Brand the legendary Mr Paul Strachen is also going to join this cruise. His love for Ganges has got him back and back with full commitment and conviction.

Pandaw River Cruises

RV Katha PandawBuild 2011 in SaigonLength: 180ft / 40mBeam: 29ft / 808mDraft: 3ft / 90cmBerths: 28 pax

Accommodation4 upper deck, 10 main deck

RV Kalaw PandawBuilt in 2014 in YangoonLength: 187ft / 57mBeam: 29ft / 8.8mDraft: 3ft / 90cmBerths: 36 guests


RV Kindat PandawBuilt in 2014 in YangoonLength: 187ft / 57mBeam: 29ft / 8.8mDraft: 3ft / 90cmBerths: 36 guests


Culturally inclusive and diversified experiences at Marriott

With 15 well established brands and 116 hotels spread across the length and breadth of India, Marriott International is one of the largest hospitality brands with an ever growing portfolio. With core values of fostering a positive well-being attitude, the graph pointer for growth of Marriott International has a heads up. Ramesh Daryanani, Vice President, Global Sales Asia-Pacific (excluding Greater China),

Marriott International opens up more about the offerings.Sonali Ahuja

Marriott International has a culturally as well as globally diversified integrity. The recently launched website

‘marriotteventasia.com’ caters all the exclusive event offers as it quotes, ‘Celebrate Your Way’. Ramesh shares, “This year Marriott will launch 12 new hotels across India in both major cities and secondary cities. Across Asia-Pacific we are at 710 hotels today and are looking to grow that to a 1000 hotels by 2020. In India, we will be launching our 16th brand, the Tribute Portfolio in Kochi later this year and are looking forward to many more.”

To enhance the customer experience while their stay at the hotel, the hospitality group recently launched a new programme called ‘Marriott Bonvoy’. Elucidating about the same, he says, “The reason why we choose the term ‘Bonvoy’ is because it means good travel. The group believes that travel enriches people and unites them, so Marriott Bonvoy is not just a hotel programme rather a travel programme. We are looking not just to hotel stays and redemptions but also to provide experience to customers as they travel to all the global destinations. Experience is something that money can’t buy and it is illustrious from the new partnerships that the brand has. For instance, partnership with the Manchester United, Maroon 5, the Hong Kong 7 which is a rugby match, customers can use their points to the events and come to the VIP booth. These experiences are not easily available and that’s where Marriott is, more than just hotels and redemptions.”

Technology has been transforming events for a while now. Whether it’s the video conferencing technologies in the meeting room or its virtual reality where a customer is transported to a particular destination or an event, technology is at the forefront of all of the experiences. “For networking an event or planning an event or the engagement during the event, technology is the platform that is being used today to enable most of the things. For example, in meetings these days, customers prefer large LED screens versus the same old projectors like they used to. Hotels and ballrooms are designed with technology required, where people don’t need to go out of their way to source new technology. If it’s inbuilt into the meeting room, Marriott can deliver experience that makes it stand out versus the competition,” Ramesh comments.

He further adds, “The mantra at Marriott is to provide the best local experience that one could get in the hotel. Food and beverage is also an important

part and generates over 40 per cent of revenue across Asia-Pacific. The recipes in rooms are sometimes influenced by family while some recipes have been handed down from generation to generation or a Michelin star chef made food, all the gastronomic experiences are served under one roof. Marriott caters to both spectrums on the food and beverage side and the leisure side. The recently launched website provides access to the inspirations that people are looking for, across Asia-Pacific, where customers can see what kind of setup, cuisines, etc is available.”

Talking about the niche segments, Ramesh explicates, “MICE is a huge focus and is close to 20 per cent of our business across the region, whether it is in form of social event or MICE. The approach to both of them is different. In India, on the wedding side, the brand has launched ‘Shaadi by Marriott’ which is Marriott International’s take on how weddings look like. The team has done a great job of hosting weddings internationally that have been the talk of town and are working more upon this segment.”

Serving the best of hospitality is inculcated in the team and is also inherited culturally. “The sales force goes through rigorous training before they get into their job and it is focused around being solution focused and understanding the needs of the customer. With that in mind, Marriott enables its teams with the right tools and resources, the exposure that is needed to best cater the needs of the customer. There is a big focus on training at Marriott both in terms of skills, leveraging the tools and resources. So the sales people are the best trusted advisors for the customer and that’s how we have been helping the customer journey. Truly understanding the customer needs, providing customised solutions by working with hotels and then executing and delivering those so that the satisfaction that they have from the events is second to none,” he shares.

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India, a sound development and source market for

the ultra luxury brand Jumeirah

The Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts are popular for its Burj-Al-Arab property in Dubai and have undertaken lots of developments done with others

coming up shortly. They have recently opened two hotels in China, the Jumeirah Nanjing and the Jumeirah Guangzhou Living and two other hotels in Abu Dhabi, UAE which are Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa and the Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort. The Middle East and China are both important markets for them and they have more expansion plans for these regions. They will be opening their first hotel in Saudi Arabia, a 1000 room luxury property in Mecca. Also, they have announced hotels in Oman, Malaysia and Bali scheduled by 2022. Jumeirah currently manages a portfolio of 24 properties, out of which a third is owned in the UAE, and the rest are all managed hotels. So, they are planning to open 50 new properties within the next 10 years. There is planning to launch more serviced apartments.

When looking at India and with the growth of the luxury segment in the country the group is optimistic and they are certainly open to the idea of opening a Jumeirah hotel here. They have a strong developments team who are always on the move to recognise potential cities and locations globally. The team is exploring India too and hopefully there are some great cities in India, such as Mumbai and Delhi that would suit a brand like Jumeirah. Butt personally is fond of Mumbai and hopes one crop up in the city.

However, India is important for both of them, as a development and a source market. On this, Butt tells, “India is indeed a big potential market for us and it has

also been in the top 10 markets for most of our hotels sales. Most of the Indians are frequent visitors to our properties in the UAE, Europe and Maldives and we also have some patrons in China and Germany as well. We know that our Indian guests appreciate our luxury and hospitality. Thus, the India market knows Jumeriah well but there is always more from Jumeirah to showcase to the market. We really want to share more about what our Indian guests can enjoy, for example in Dubai, we know they love our stunning beach properties and places like the Wild Wadi Water park .Our hotels in particular have an excellent and wide choice of dining options which they all enjoy. Similarly, Indians do explore our hotels in other locations - the Maldives at Jumeirah Vittaveli, which is a stunning resort and a very popular honeymoon destination.

India, according to Butt has high-potential travel and hospitality agents in India to reach out to ultra-high luxury travellers and the MICE and weddings segment. Over the last three years, they have been active in India and participated in many roadshows across the key cities of India including Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru to gain more partnerships and build existing relationships with their valued partners. Moreover, they are now focussed on the b2b market, working with online travel agents. Importantly, they are also trying to focus more on the b2c segment. This year they participated in the Luxury Lifestyle Weekend 2019, which happened in Mumbai. Besides, they are looking at exploring more targeted advertising through mediums like radio, cinemas and airports, other than their key online channels to enhance b2c exposure. On the B2B front again, they work very

closely with a number of partners from the hospitality sector, including tourism boards and airlines.

Blue Square Consultancy is their appointed agent in India, who helps them to direct MICE, wedding business and leisure guests to their hotels around the world. Their global sales team also visits India often thus establishing relationships and finding opportunities to grow business in all segments. For MICE and weddings, they already have some exciting offers that were brought to the trade attention recently. Recently they have launched some enticing wedding packages are available on their website.

“For Jumeirah, there are three distinct brand promotion strategies which foremost revolve around delivering personalised guest experiences and service beyond expectations. Secondly, at Jumeirah, we appreciate how important f&b is to the overall guest experiences and we have embarked on elevating our f&b experiences across our portfolio and which is too our huge focus area. With the recent appointment of a renowned epicure, Michael Ellis as Chief Culinary Officer, Jumeirah will drive creativity and reinvigorate its dining concepts and gastronomic experiences across our portfolio. The third is to focus on product, design and architecture, so that Jumeirah guest’s travel is enhanced by both warm atmosphere and the sense of a place that Jumeirah hotels evoke. In terms of luxury, guest surroundings are also important for their experience. Jumeirah’s luxury within and its exquisite spaces is what makes a stay truly memorable. Jumeirah is vibrant in creating ideal environments to stir your emotions, whether in a restaurant, spa, guest room or the lobby,” concludes Butt.

The Jumeirah Group is one of the most distinct global luxury

hospitality chains. With a presence of 24 luxury Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts in eight countries,

the brand is a leader in luxury hospitality. Shaf Butt, Regional

Director of Marketing, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific Regions,

Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts, was recently in Mumbai and it was great

to hear from him about the group’s plans and marketing strategies for

India market. Butt has been with the group for quite a long time now and has played

a commendable role in the Jumeirah brand

international growth story.Prashant Nayak

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Soak in Maldivian experiences at Heritance Aarah

The Resort is located on its own private island Aarah, in the Raa Atoll and can be reached by a 40 minute seaplane journey from Male International Airport. During this brief journey, guests are

greeted with breath taking views of the Indian Ocean.

The island resort of Heritance Aarah is perfectly suited for couples, families or groups of friends looking

for a relaxing island hideaway where turquoise waters beckon from your choice of 82 intimate luxury duplex ocean suites and sunset ocean villas as well as 75 land villas ranging from Beach Villas, Pool Beach Villas, Family Beach Villas and Family Pool Beach Villas.

The opportunity of ultimate relaxation on a pristine Maldivian Island while exploring one of the greatest diving destinations awaits you. Whether on honeymoon or celebrating a special occasion, Aarah is the ideal place to unwind any way you choose. If you are seeking a

haven for pure relaxation or an active holiday retreat for the whole family, the choices are endless. Offering a range ‘all inclusive’ options, friendly staff with a high commitment to service assures you a carefree holiday. Leave your shoes and cares behind and enjoy an island where you are free to be you.

• Premium Plus – unique ‘premium all-inclusive’ holiday plan

• Some of the largest entry level beach villas in the Maldives – 950 sq ft

• One of the largest lagoons in Maldives

• 40 min Sea-plane transfer from Male through a direct charter operation

• 82 Water Villas inclusive of 25 Luxury two storied Ocean Suites inclusive of an exclusive over water restaurant and private butler service

• ‘Ocean’ a unique infinity wade-in pool exclusive for Water Suite guests

• Dedicated dining outlets for different room categories inclusive of three specialty themed restaurants where guests can use

the option of food credits

• World-class PADI certified dive centre and water sports

• Tennis-court and fully equipped gymnasium

• Extensive kid’s club facilities and young adults activities for our younger guests

• Unique over water spa

Accommodation 157 Villas and Suites

Aarah Maldives offers 157 villas and suites separated by tropical vegetation for privacy. All villas have direct access to the pristine white beach and the beautiful turquoise lagoon. The entire resort has been designed and built with a fusion of indigenous architecture, offering an overall contemporary feel with a Maldivian touch-offering privacy, comfort for a well-deserved holiday experience.

The Beach Villa at Aarah Maldives is one of the largest entry level beach-front villas in the Maldives, elegantly designed with guest comfort in mind with an indigenous touch and open air bathrooms. The Beach Villas are nestled along the long stretch of beach surrounding the island with

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each individual villa having direct beach access just few meters in front of their large open air veranda.

Arguably one of the largest family beach villas in the Maldives, these interconnecting beach villas provide separate outdoor access proving ideal for guests holidaying with families. The Family Beach Villas are identical in design to the Beach Villas and offer privacy to be also occupied by individual guests or families with adult kids who need more privacy.

Pool Beach VillasThe Pool Villas are the signature

land accommodation units at Aarah Maldives offering exclusivity and truly are a cut above the rest offering the best ultimate luxury island holiday. With an expansive outdoor private area, including a large veranda, each individual villa has a private pool complete with sun loungers. In addition to the above, the villa provides direct beach access overlooking the vast azure lagoon of the Island.

Family Pool Beach VillasThe Family Pool Villas are identical

in features and amenities to the Pool Villas except with the addition of a 09 m² private plunge pools for one of the Villas. These Family Pool Villas can be occupied by individual guests or families with adult kids who need more privacy.

OCEAN VILLASA private sanctuary for two,

overlooking a vast seascape, with a spacious bathroom and sundeck. A strong sense of place, tastefully incorporating indigenous elements

throughout the design of the guest rooms is extended to the outdoor arena where guests can choose to unwind on a day bed, opt for a lounger on the sundeck or descend the bungalow steps to the shimmering lagoon beneath.

LUXURY OCEAN SUITESEach of our striking Luxury Water

Suites features a magnificent plunge pool and the ultimate in romantic settings. A spacious bedroom on the upper floor is designed with a king size bed that is dressed in the finest linens.

PRESIDENTIAL OCEAN SUITE

Providing a strong sense of place the spacious living room on the ground floor tastefully incorporates indigenous elements throughout. Occupying the edge of the premium water suites, the ultra-lux two bed-roomed water suite offers the most premium accommodation option in the Resort. An elaborate plunge pool, sumptuous ocean views from the terrace are just some of personalised experiences guests can enjoy. The Suite is designed with two bedrooms, while spacious living areas provide for an indulgent getaway.

BEACH VILLAS and

FAMILY BEACH VILLAS

Guests are provided with the dining facilities at the all day dining restaurant

POOL BEACH VILLAS and FAMILY POOL BEACH

VILLASGuests are provided with dining

facilities at the all day dining restaurant. in addition, pool villa guests can dine at the Specialty Lagoon Restaurant once during their stay, subject to a minimum stay of four nights with prior reservation.

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Unplugged experiences at The Village Coconut Island

Located just five minutes from the Phuket mainland, The Coconut Village Island is a unique getaway to rejoice. The Island retains the tranquil old world charm as well as matches the modern time clock.

Although discovered hundreds of years ago by the shipwrecked explorers, it offers privacy decked with comforts of luxury. Jintana

Ngorsurachet (Yok), Assistant Director of Sales, The Village Coconut Island opens up more about the holiday destination with TTJ.

Sonali Ahuja

Anilana Resorts strives to provide an authentic and

memorable serviceThe Anilana Resorts, appointed IRIS Reps as their

representative in India. IRIS Reps will be responsible for sales, PR and marketing activities to develop the brand

awareness of Anilana Resorts within India, as well as drive business to its properties.

Team TTJ

Jintana Ngorsurachet (Yok)

The Village Coconut Island has everything to attract the Indian travellers. Adding to it Jintana

says, “India market is a very big market especially for Thailand. The percentage of tourists from India market, specifically for Phuket is increasing with the year on year sale of the resort, witnessing 30-60 per cent growth. Direct flights have made it even more convenient for the Indian travellers to travel to Phuket even on the weekends.”

“The marketing and promotional activities largely depend upon the

segments. We are being represented by the Nijhawan Group in India market. The Island targets every segment such as wedding, MICE, FITs and female traveller. One of the big fat Indian weddings was held in the resort before. The market segments are getting better every year for the resort,” she shares.

The destination serves as the perfect blend of peace, splendour and adventure. For those seeking solitude plus the adventure, the Coconut Island has it all. When asked about the unique selling points, she elucidates, “Our USP is our product. The Village Coconut Island Resort, located on the Coconut Island is situated close to the Phuket mainland. The Island has its own speed boats where

one speed boat can occupy 30-35 people in total. There are 236 stand alone villas in total, starting from one bedroom up to five bedroom villas.”

The resort has all the five star facilities such as the spa, the fitness center, high end restaurants and bar, sailing, kayaking, etc. The location of the resort serves as the gateway to many beautiful beaches and serene islands. “Village Coconut Island has a private beach. There is a 24 hour water taxi service available for the customers to further explore the area. The activities offered include special Thai cooking classes, mountain biking, aqua aerobics and a lot more. Indians are very interested in Thai cooking classes,” she concludes.

One of Sri Lanka’s youngest and newest brands, Anilana offers contemporary designs

with traditional Sri Lankan hospitality. In April 2014, it opened doors for Anilana Nilaveli together with Anilana Craigbank in Nuwara Eliya. Dinesh Pandey, Chairman & Managing Director, Anilana Resorts said, “We felt it was imperative to extend our reach in the Indian market and make our products available to more consumers through their preferred travel partner. In doing so, we’re delighted to have the IRIS Reps represent and assist us in further developing and strengthening our

partnerships with the Indian travel trade.”

“We opened Anilana Pasikuda our first beach front hotel property in March 2013. Operating as a luxury brand, we focus on providing a personalised and intimate experience. Our resorts are designed to be unique, and original, striving to provide an authentic and memorable service.We are keen on making success stories for Anilana resorts, who are bejeweled as luxury resorts located in Sri Lankan. We are confident that our association with IRIS Reps will further lead to even more guests from the subcontinent indulging and

experiencing the warm hospitality with its unique product offerings.”

Alefiya Singh, Director, IRIS Reps added, “We are excited about this new collaboration with Anilana Resorts. IRIS Reps will be able to communicate the benefits and unique experiences that Anilana Resorts properties aimed at providing Indian agents. We will make efforts to enable the travel agents to create and develop new tourist destination. The unspoiled east coast of Sri Lanka which has a lot to offer to the different segments of Indian travellers. Our focused approach will be MICE also aiming to attract the Indian destination wedding market.”

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Endorsing upbeat Sri Lankan hospitality with resolute MICE offeringsSituated in the heart of the city and just a short distance away from many tourism hotspots,

The Kingsbury offers an unparalleled Sri Lankan hospitality. The plan is to enhance the footprint in India and entice guests from the subcontinent to indulge and experience the

warm hospitality and wonderful product offering. Being part of the Hayleys conglomerate, one of the largest and most diversified conglomerates in Sri Lanka, the brand expands its presence to other destinations in the island as well. Amanda Weeraratne, General

Manager, Sales & Marketing, The Kingsbury shares more with TTJ.Bharti Sharma

Amanda WeeraratneThe rise in industrialisation in Sri Lanka has been attracting a lot of business/corporate tourists from India. As tourists want to explore the sights

and sounds of Colombo, they seek to locate a central location in the city. The Kingsbury is located in the heart of the capital with an easy access to shopping (Dutch Hospital precinct), sites (Old parliament building and Galle Face promenade).

Colombo is flourishing with a multitude of nightlife options for the discerning traveller, with CÉ LA VI at its epicenter. Amanda tells, “CÉ LA VI is an award winning entertainment and lifestyle brand. Resting at the top of The Kingsbury, the CÉ LA VI Colombo lounge lets viewers into the terrace outside or sit inside comfortably as they provide guests the opportunity to sip on our refreshing cocktails as they take in the stunning vistas of Colombo, move to a global beat from our A-list musicians.”

The Kingsbury is dedicated to make the traveller’s stay the most memorable and influential experience. In order to serve the Indian customers with the best of their services, they have been promoting themselves extensively with various roadshows. She further comments, “We have witnessed a growth in arrivals from the Indian market to The Kingsbury which indicates that the hotel stands out from the competition as a preferred hotel among Indian clientele. We expect this to grow in the following years with the increased direct connections from all major cities in India.”

As Colombo has become a popular attraction for leisure segments and continues to gain traction as a favoured destination among the MICE segment, The Kingsbury plans to take the necessary steps to ensure that it cements itself as a preferred hotel in these market segments. Amanda Weeraratne says, “We are focused on MICE with a special emphasis on Indian weddings and the corporate segments. For

example, the hotel currently has a range of facilities including an array of business lunches in many of our restaurants including Modern Asian cuisine, Chinese, Seafood and gourmet grills with consistently superior service. Furthermore, the hotel has breakout rooms to hold meetings and various halls which are ideal to host business functions ranging from intimate gatherings to large conferences.”

Talking about the upcoming property, Amanda says, “The developments for The Kingsbury Negombo are underway and the project is expected to be completed in 2021 as we provide more options for all of our guests to receive the signature Kingsbury experience in other parts of the emerald isle.”

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Indomitably easing trips

Sometimes our intuition guides us towards those things that we love the most, so we can push past them and

emerge stronger as a result. We all will agree that EaseMyTrip is indeed a fine example of such results. Nishant Pitti, Co-Founder and CEO, EaseMyTrip has

metamorphosed every situation into a successful venture. Implementing the core values of strong management, guiding employees to maximise the efficiency and the

effectiveness, he has dispelled the myths of businesses.Bharti Sharma

Nishant along with his brother always wanted to set up own business to utilise their entrepreneurial skills. It was the energy of two young brothers who were

quite enthusiastic about becoming industrialists and taking new challenges. At the same time, their enthusiasm was packed with high commitment to do justice to his line of work. Started with a small team of four members at home garage, EaseMyTrip, presently is among the leading travel companies of India with a team of more than 500 employees. He contentedly reminisces, “Being an inexpensive industry to start, travel business is something that you can often begin with limited staff and little upfront cost. The idea of founding EaseMyTrip first clicked in our mind when we realised of being conned by our travel agent on personal travel. We became very keen to save on the travel cost of our family members and successfully executed this. This finally led us to establish a travel agency. We invested all our oomph to take this company ahead.”

Time and successful people have been Nishant’s inspirations in life. He credits his father Anil Pitti who has been the guiding star and source of motivation. Other than that, there are several personalities from corporate world who have inspired him often. He apprises, “My father not only supported us in terms of being a financial backup but also shown his complete faith in whatever we were doing to setup our business. He walked that extra mile with us and gave his full support whenever we needed it. Eminent names of the business world such as Ratan Tata and Narayan Murthi motivate me a lot. Their contribution to the world makes me amazed. Seriously, I wonder that how one can be so charismatic with this much of simplicity. Actively working at this age, both work earnestly for their companies. It is hard to find people with such energetic personalities and philanthropic efforts.”

An entrepreneur at the helm of the fastest growing companies, Nishant has kept the momentum going. He always managed to stay focused and did not really dilly dally with the issues at hand. Talking about the travel trade industry, he

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feels that many things have transformed in the last two decades as travel has become an integral part of everyone’s life and social media platforms are playing a vital role in bringing revolution in tourism business. Nishant opines, “Earlier, holidays were mostly limited to family travel but presently, business travel, solo travel and travelling in groups have become trends now. Today’s travellers love exploring new places, including nearby tourist hubs to short-haul and long-haul destinations. We are seeing that foreign tours and luxurious stays have become a regular thing now. You can see a new phase of Indian travellers, who are passionate about holidaying and familiar with the constant changes in the industry.”

The path to success lies in evolution, whether it is evolution of ideas, services and products or technology. It is imperative to understand that the only way to keep at the top is to keep on changing and evolving with the time. Nishant broadly accepts this and says, “The latest advancements in technologies turned to be the most challenging turnaround for our business that allowed us delivering convenient, contextual and significant booking experiences to the customers by personalising their needs. It gave us a

strong hope for retaining our clients by judging their behaviours, interests and past travel information.

Determination and grit to grow every single day has pushed Nishant and eventually EaseMyTrip to cultivate by leaps and bounds. Let me tell you, he doesn’t plan to stop here. Sharing his future plans, Nishant optimistically tells, “EaseMyTrip is my biggest accomplishment and the plan is to grow. We have plans to open EMT Holiday Hubs in all major cities to increase revenues from Non-Air Products, including hotels, bus, holiday packages and car rentals. We also want to expand our product portfolio and planning to further diversify our hotel booking category. At present, we have over seven thousand properties onboard on our platform that comprised of Sterling group of hotels, Leisure Group of Hotels, Fabhotels, Clarks Group of Hotels, 1589 Group of Hotels, CGH Earth Group and several others. In our quest to offer the best travel services to our customers, we aim to make EaseMyTrip a go-to platform for all travel-related needs. In coming few years, we would love to be introduced to more verticals and would look for exploring other markets as well.

Setting up this travel business has made Nishant’s dream of becoming an

entrepreneur come true. He feels great about being able to bring change in someone’s life by planning their trips. “Through this travel trade business, I am proficiently impacting younger people and enabling this generation to cope up better with the modern day pressure. As a person, I have also acquired a more positive outlook towards life after coming into travel industry.”

For all the achievements, goal accomplishments and recognition, Nishant expresses gratitude to the travel trade. He recalls, “There are many things about travel trade that make me being thankful of it. Travel trade has made many people’s lives simpler by taking their stress level really low. Thanks to the travel industry, now people can explore different cultures and places and no matters how different their way of living is, a common thread ties them together.”

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Travelling just happened to be a hobby for me but

now it has turned to be my passion. I have learnt to value experiences over things and

became more open about beliefs and cultures.

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Signature Tours offers a journey that is meticulously planned with a unique collection of premium and boutique

accommodation, well-considered dining options, exclusive experiences and tours turning one-of-a-kind moments into lifelong memories. Harjit tells, “We are passionate about showing the world to travellers with a different set of eyes. With global alliances that provide access to some of the best partners in the travel industry, allow us to offer destinations and experiences others can’t. Our passion lies in creating unique and engaging experiences to amaze even the most experienced travellers. We curate experiences that capture the soul of destination be it a relaxing cruise, glamorous nightlife, food and wine explorations, wildlife photography, adventure tourism and much more. Each itinerary is crafted with

relevant experiences for our guests – be it honeymooners, senior citizens, millennials and families.”

Signature has always believed in strong relationship with their trade partners and brought to India the most premium line of travel products in the world. Harjit comments, “Insight Vacations and Luxury Gold offering over 200 luxury and premium travel options across 70 countries. This is a whole new ways of experiencing new cultures and making new friends from around the world. There is probably nothing like it available in India. It is truly about the art of travelling in style. Victoria Cruises is the only American cruise line currently sailing China’s Yangtze River. We proudly offer departures year round with international multilingual cruise directors. Our trade partners just have to offer these programs to their guests and earn great commissions and incentives.”

Culture, fashion, festivals, food and wine, romance, wildlife and city breaks are the themes around which their programs are

designed. Talking about the unique crafted products, Harjit shares, “We believe our guests travel to experience a country and so our chosen accommodation allows guest to get out and explore on your own without having to waste time in taxis. There is a range of modern or authentic heritage properties at the best locations.”

Being the part of Creative Travel family of brands, which is India’s oldest and largest privately owned destination management company showcasing luxury in the Indian subcontinent for 41 years. Signature Tours wants to replicate the same service standards for Indian guests travelling out of India. Harjit shares, “We are a premium travel company offering crafted journeys across the globe. Our association with luxury DMCs across the world gives us the platform to deliver seamless travel experiences. We are dedicated to creating extraordinary experiences tailored to meet every need. We value relationship with trade - travel agents, tourism boards, airlines and overseas partners.”

Best of the world on the ‘Signature’ platter

Signature Tours, part of the Creative Travel family of brands was created to offer a very special style and level of service around the globe to the discerning Indian traveller. It marks a statement of their position as a specialist in the art of premium outbound travel. Let’s know more about the unique products from Harjit Singh, General

Manager of Partnership Development, Signature Tours.Bharti Sharma

Harjit Singh

The AGM was chaired by Manish Synghal, President, IAAI, Maharashtra State Committee and attended by Biji

Eapen, National President, IAAI, Manu Nair, Director, IAAI, Aruna Shetty, Director, IAAI, TU Shamsuddin, CEO, IAAI, Rajesh Acharya, Vice President, IAAI-MH, RT Iyer, Secretary, IAAI-MH and Sarosh Parak, Treasurer, along with the managing committee members and the members of IAAI Maharashtra state.

Biji Eapen requested the IAAI members to raise their queries and concerns wherein some members clearly raised their concerns

and gave their valuable suggestions too. While Eapen voiced on many issues, he was instrumental in sharing knowledge about current developments in the travel trade in the meeting. He raised concerns which were not only affecting the IAAI but the travel industry as a whole. He suggested members to become active participants in such forum, raise issues, problems and collectively fight for the cause.

Eapen also announced the formation of Women Empowerment Committee. Aruna Shetty who is the National Director of IAAI

will lead the women cell which will be launched in June this year.

The other topic which was heavily discussed

was the i-Top, the first in the world of its kind–offering two platforms- ticketing through GDS and NDC via internet. “Our aim is to commercialise the i-Top project so that all the members the stake holders in this project will get their respective share. We are in process to formulate a strategy. Many products are already integrated to the i-Top platform and now we need a dedicated team to work for its promotion and marketing,” said Eapen.

Manish Synghal, President IAAI-MH & Chairman of the i-Top Executive Committee briefed the members about the progress of the Indian travel agents own portal which called as the ‘magic lamp of IAAI’. Manish also announced, “The IAAI trade partner members (non-IATA agents) will also avail the benefits of the i-Top.”

Earlier, in an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) of the Maharashtra State Committee of IAAI was held in the December 2018 following the resignation of the President and Secretary. In that meeting Manish Synghal, Rajesh Acharya, R T Iyer and Sarosh Parekh were elected as President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer, respectively for Maharasthra. The AGM also ratified their election.

IAAI to launch women cell, announced during the AGMIAAI (IATA Agents Association of India) AGM was recently held

at the Sahil Hotel, Mumbai where members present raised their queries and concerns related to the present situation in

the association and also the travel industry. The members also provided their valuable suggestions and inputs.

Prashant Nayak

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Buddhist Circuit in MP sanctioned under Swadesh Darshan Scheme of MoT, GoI

Team TTJ

Destinations covered under Buddhist Circuit

1. Sanchi 2. Mandsaur3. Dhar 4. Satna5. Rewa 6. Satdhara7. Sonari 8. Murel khurd9. Gyaraspur

• Sanchi: Sanchi is a Buddhist complex famous for its Great Stupa on a hilltop at Sanchi town in Raisen District of the State of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is UNESCO World Heritage Site, located 46 km north-east of Bhopal. It was originally commissioned by the emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. Its nucleus was a simple hemispherical brick structure built over the relics of the Buddha. Sanchi was also the birth place of Ashoka’s wife, Devi as well as the venue of Ashoka’s wedding.

• Great Stupa No 1: During the later rule of the Shunga, the stupa was expanded with stone slabs to almost twice its original size.

• Great Stupa No 2 & 3: The stupas which seem to have been commissioned during the rule of the Shungas are the Second and the Third stupas. The Relics of Sariputra and Mahamoggallana, the disciples of the Buddha are said to have been placed in Stupa No 3.

Sanctioned components at Sanchi– Development of Marshall House, Buddhist Theme Park, TFC, development and beautification of pathway, light and sound show, etc.

• Satdhara and Sonari Stupas: Satdhāra is situated around 14 km from Sanchi. There are around 20 stupas

at the site, many of which had been reconstructed. The atmosphere was very quiet and meditative. The stupas here were the site for the relics of Ven Sariputra and Mahamogggallana, which are now in the Mahābodhi temple at Sanchi; and the area around here is also associated with one of the Buddha’s great disciples-Ven

Mahākaccāyana, who lived in the Avanti area.

• Sonari: It is the archaeological site of an ancient monastic complex of Buddhist stupas. The site, positioned on a hill, is located about 10 km southwest of Sanchi. The stupas were excavated around 1850 by

Alexander Cunningham who discovered two boxes containing relics.

• Gyaraspur and Murel khurd: Gyaraspur is a small town of great historical importance, medieval period in Madhya Pradesh. This comes under Vidisha district and is 35 km away from Vidisha. The name is derived from a fair which is held at the 11th month of the Hindu calendar, ‘gyaras’ means joy at the eleventh. There are many monuments of importance belonging to 9th-10th century. This is a small town and all the monuments can be visited walking around.

• 1. Athakhamba (9th century) –

• 2. Hindola Torana (10th century)

• 3. Chaukhamba (10th century)

• 4. Mala Devi Temple (9th century)

• 5. Bajra Matha (10th century)

• 6. Dhaikinath Stupa (6th-7th century).

• Murelkhurd: There are 37 stupas at Bhojpur (Pipalia) near Murelkhurd on

the top of hill.

Sanctioned components at Satdhara, Sonari,

Murelhurd and Gyaraspur- Development of last mile connectivity, meditation center and premises development.

• Dev Kuthar (Rewa): Deorkothar/DeurKothar is a location of archaeological importance in Madhya Pradesh, Central India. It is known for its Buddhist stupas and was discovered in 1982.These stupas are credited to the Mauryan emperor, Ashoka.

• Bharhut (Satna): Bharhut is a village located in the Satna district of Madhya Pradesh, central India. It is known for its famous relics from a Buddhist stupa.

Sanctioned Components at Rewa and Satna - Interpretation Center cum meditation hall, Tourist reception center, Development and beautification of Approach Road

• Dharmrajeshwar (Mandsaur): Dharmrajeshwar is an ancient Buddhist and Hindu cave temple site of 4th – 5th century in Mandsaur district in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is an example of Indian rock- cut architecture, situated in Garoth tehsil of Mandsaur district at a distance of 4 km from Chandwasa town and 106 km from Mandsaur city.

Sanctioned components at Mandsaur (Dharmrajeshwar) Interpretation centre cum meditation hall, approach road, premises development

• Bagh Caves (Dhar): The Bagh Caves are a group of nine rock-cut monuments, situated among the southern slopes of the Vidhya’s in Bagh town of Dhar. The Bagh Caves were quarried in the 5th-6th century AD, the very late stages of Buddhism in India, and long after most of the Indian Buddhist Caves had been built, many of them since the 2nd or 1st centuries BCE.

Sanctioned components at Dhar (Bagh caves): Tourist reception centre, approach road and premises development.

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Korean Air hosts awardsnight for its agents in Delhi

Considering the potential of its agents, Korean Air hosted an award night in Hotel Pullman, New Delhi, Aerocity. San Wook Han, Regional Manager, Korean Air, Delhi felicitated the top

10 travel agents who have largely contributed to the prospering sales of the airline.Sonika Bohra

The award night was embraced by many prominent members of the travel fraternity. Korean Air praised the agents for

their dedication and hardwork. The award winning travel agencies were MakeMyTrip.com, Riya Travels and Tours, Akbar Travels, Yatra.com, Cox and Kings, Inko Travels, FCM Travel Solutions, Travel Boutique Online,

Balmer Lawrie, American Express Global Business Travel, Korea Tourism Organization. San Wook Han thanked all the awardees and the airline partners for their continuous support, also hoping to achieve newer heights as a combined effort.

One of the awardees, Gurpreet Kaur, Senior Manager, Airline Contracting-

MakeMyTrip.com shares, “Korean Air is a great product to fly with as I have personally experienced. Their hospitality is overwhelming. In case they add more flights from Indian metro cities, their passenger count will definitely increase for Korea and beyond. The airline has competitive fares in the market and capacity to grow.”


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Named as the world’s Best Indoor Ski Resort in 2018, Ski Dubai offers plethora of adventure activities to its

visitors. Came into existence in 2005, it is the world’s second largest indoor ski slope at about 5.5 skiable acres. Talking about the response from the India market, Bashar asserts, “At the moment, India is the most potential market for us and its number one in terms of footfall. Presently, we receive about 32 per cent of our visits from the India market. Until 2017, it was GCC thriving with largest numbers to our venue but in 2018, Indians took over with their interest to experience the place. In India, there are five offices representing us. This country demands this kind of presence, you need to have different sales person in different states as per your source market.”

Bashar feels there is tremendous opportunities in tier II and III cities and they don’t want to leave any stone unturned to capture these potential cities. He adds, “We have stopped doing any anything in tier I cities for now. Because in tier I, people are aware of Majid Al Futtaim and Ski Dubai. However, if you visit the tier II and III cities, they are not receiving that amount of information. Hence, we started focusing on these cities and witnessed a significant increase to our venues from the cities eg Chandigarh.”

Elaborating on their plans to deal with the travel trade in India, Bashar shares, “The motto of our sales team here is to spread the technology to the tour operators and travel agents. When they have access to the technology, they can access our

products. The outbound travel agents in India still depend on the DMCs based in Dubai. However, many of the big agents have started opening their own offices in Dubai which makes it easy for them and also for us. On the other hand, technology has played a big part to deal with the market easily and directly.”

“Though, there are so many theme parks and roller coasters flying around but there is no product like ours. We are Ski Dubai, it’s a ski resort in the middle of the desert. We are the home to the penguins and I don’t think anybody in Dubai has this kind of place right now or will have anytime soon. Also, it’s been named as the most visited attraction in Dubai. I really appreciate the support India has given to us,” concludes Bashar.

Timeless opulence of Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria

This iconic Amalfi Coast hotel was founded by the Fiorentino family in 1834 in Sorrento, Italy. The family’s fifth generation is running the hotel today, keeping alive a long tradition in the name of the Italian hospitality excellence.

Team TTJ

Guido Fiorentino

A member of the Leading Hotels of the World since 2000, the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is a five-star luxury hotel of exclusive style

and elegance with its authentic interiors and furnishings. The hotel is located in Sorrento town centre and sits on a high cliff with spectacular views over the Gulf of Naples with Mount Vesuvius. This is the same place where the legend goes, the Roman Emperor Augustus had his own villa. Easy to recognise when arriving from the sea, the hotel’s three classic style 19th century buildings are just above the town harbour. The property is surrounded by lush greenery of unique Mediterranean garden of 20,000 sq metres where guests also find the spa and pool area.

Over the years, in its long history, the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria was part of the Grand Tour and it has welcomed monarchs, politicians, artists and celebrities. Among others, Richard Wagner, Enrico Caruso, Jack Lemmon, Marilyn Monroe, Luciano

Pavarotti, Sophia Loren and Lucio Dalla have all appreciated the hotel’s elegance and its attentive service.

All 84 guestrooms at Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria are elegantly furnished with antiques collected over the years. No two rooms are the same and many have original bathrooms. The hotel’s Michelin-starred seafront restaurant, state-of-the-art fitness room, outdoor pool and spa facilities are sure-fire hits with couples.

As the gateway to one of the most romantic destinations in Europe, Sorrento is as beautiful and authentic as you’d expect. Known for its lacework boutiques, ceramics and marble intarsia, the town is an excellent base for exploring the entire region of Amalfi Coast. Guests don’t have to stray too far to enjoy the area’s striking coastline. The seafront is just 300 metres away and easily accessed via the hotel lift and a stroll along the promenade where hydrofoils leave for day trips to Naples and Capri.

Guido Fiorentino, is the President & Chief Executive Officer for the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria in Sorrento, Italy. He belongs to the family who first founded the hotel in 1834 and is still running it since five generations. He manages the hotel keeping alive a long tradition in the name of the Italian hospitality excellence, combining elegance with all the amenities and services expected by today’s travellers. Guido Fiorentino has held his current position since November 2010. Prior to this, he was the Chief Executive Officer for Meridian VAT Italia Srl for 21 years.

A skiing escapade in DubaiSkiing, sledging, tobogganing, zipline and even up close personal encounters with penguins, don’t miss Ski Dubai, a tremendous ski slant arranged in Mall of the Emirates. Tourists can now visit the

desert and hit the ski inclines at the same time. Most of us already know about the place because of their continuous efforts to tap and cater the India market. TTJ spoke to Bashar Aljbael, Senior Sales Manager, Majid Al Futtaim Leisure & Entertainment and

Cinemas and discuss the amazing offerings of Ski Dubai.Bharti Sharma

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ITB 2019 receives 3 per cent increase in terms of trade visitors,

A dry show for IndiaSudipta Saha

Being a yearly affair and Mecca for travel trade professionals, ITB 2019 remained to be of utmost attractions. Trade visitor numbers rose to 113,500, a three per cent increase as compared with last year. The number is undoubtedly impressive, but India pavilion failed to pull handsome numbers, whereas other pavilions were brimming with visitors.

Who to blame, what went wrong might be a history, but if a right decision is not taken at the moment, India might lose its deserving shares in terms of tourist arrivals.

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Jetsave offers e-Visa on arrival to Thailand for tourist travellers

Jetsave offers e-Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) for travellers travelling to Thailand for tourist purpose. The key features of e-VoA are as:

• e-Visa Thailand is currently available if you are arriving at one of four main international airports in Thailand

• Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)

• Bangkok Don Mueang International Airport

(DMK)

• Phuket International Airport (HKT)

• Chiangmai International Airport (CNX)

However, more Thailand entry points can be waiting in the line for the implementation of the e-Visa Thailand online system. Faster immigration check as the queue is separate from visa on arrival queue. e-VoA is date specific i.e. is valid only on the arrival date mentioned on the visa and offers 15 days stay from the date of entry. This means, if the visa starts from 10th February 2019, the applicant has to make an entry only on 10th February 2019 and not later

• Documentary requirements for e-VoA are as below in scanned manner

• Passport Copy

• Photograph

• Confirmed air ticket

• Confirmed Hotel Booking

• Processing time is two-three working days and express requests can be considered on case to case basis

• First port of entry is very critical to be informed to us for e-VoA

• Economical option as the cost is very low.

Applicants having valid the USA visa (> 6 month validity) do not require a Chilean Tourist Visa

As informed by the Embassy of Chile, with effect from April 1 2019, all Indian passport holders having a valid USA visa (with validity of six months or above) do not require a Chilean Tourist visa. Period of stay will be decided

by the immigration upon arrival. Please note:

1) Passport validity should be more than 6 months at the time of travel

2) Applicants should have enough financial support for their stay in Chile

3) Purpose of travel is tourism only

For Business travel, visa needs to be obtained from the Embassy of Chile.

No urgent submission for foreign passport holders informs The Embassy of China

As informed by The Embassy of China there will be no urgent submission for any foreign passport holders. Hence, only normal submission process will be applicable for foreign passport holders.

Visa update

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‘Explore Solan’to unwind the hidden gem of

Himachal‘City of red gold’, Solan is the emerging tourism hub between Chandigarh and Shimla. The district in the

state of Himachal Pradesh has high potential, yet it is an unconventional destination. ‘Explore Solan’ was an initiative

taken to introduce the destination across the globe.Ravi Sharma

The ‘mushroom city of India’ remains a hidden gem for not only the local Indian tourists, but the travellers

around the world as well. To bring the destination to notice, ‘Explore Solan’ was the initiative taken by HRA Solan, with extreme efforts of Raminder Bawa, Managing Director, Sai Vacations who is also the General Secretary of HRA. The idea was to introduce the highly potent yet untapped destination. The motive was to take the travel professionals and travel media houses to explore Solan as a holiday destination.

To unwrap the beauty Solan is blessed with, as many as 70 travel agents and

media professionals came from different parts of the country. The three days event kicked off on March 15, 2019 with guests taken to different sites such as Nauni University, The Horticulture and Forestry Lab, The Menri Monastery, Jatoli Temple, Mohan Shakti Park and Dharon ki Dhar which are among the key attractions of Solan.

The themed nights such as Himachali night, Punjabi bhangara, gidda night and Sufi night along with gala dinners was very rejoicing. There were some adventurous experiences to add on the thrill element to the itinerary such as zip line, valley crossing, trekking, etc at the Heavens Retreat. Shagun hotel hosted lunch for everyone and Anand Complex Market Association welcomed the guests with cake cutting at Chanakya eating point. There was a spectacular show by immensely talented dancers at Mall Road that left everyone spellbound. Deventure

Hotel hosted a high tea along with introducing its offerings. There were quite a few hotel inspections as well by the travel agents.

The official website for Solan Tourism ‘www.solantourism.com’ was launched on March 17th by the Honourable DC, Solan. He addressed the audience with the words of wisdom along with many other prominent personalities such as ADM Solan. The participants were felicitated with the certificate of attendance.

The event was well received by both travel agents and media houses. There were productive b2b meetings where hoteliers, restaurant owners and travel agents from Solan showcased their products and offerings to the visitors. It also served as an oppurtunity to work with each other and explore further. It was indeed a super successful show, well appreciated by everyone. Solan is expected to attract a significant number of tourists in due course.

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EKTTA Convention catapults tourism opportunities in Odisha

An initiative to explore the new avenues in capacity building for tourism in Odisha, the convention was organised by Enterprising Knot of Tourism and Travel Associates, EKTTA.

EKTTA brings the destination to the limelight.Ravi Sharma

The inaugural ceremony witnessed prominent figures such as Shri Priyadarshini Mishra, MLA; Smt Aruna

Mohanty, Padma Shri awardee, renowned sand artist as well as Padma Shri awardee, Shri Sudarshan Pattnaik and Shri Utpal Kumar Pati, Joint Director of Odisha Tourism shared their vision and experiences on the subject.

Learned panelists such as Prof Sarat Kumar Lenka, Nodal Officer, IITTM, Lopamudra Tripathy, C4D Specialist UNICEF, Benjamin Simon, MD Travel Link, Shri Gagan Sarangi, Odisha Chapter Chairman, IATO, Ravi Sharma, Editor-in-Chief, Sampan Media, Shri Jeevan Patnaik, former Superintending Archaeologist, ASI, Shri Sunila Patniak, Asst Director, Odisha Tourism, Jatindra Dash, Senior Journalist and Dilip Satpathy, senior journalist graced the occasion. The panel discussions were moderated by Nilambar Rath, senior journalist and Editor-in-Chief OdishaLIVE and Sanjay Mohanty, MD, Ecsel Travels. There were important subjects for the panel discussion such as introducing Man/Woman on Spot and Tourism Theatre to boost the tourism sector in Odisha.

The main aim of the convention was to provide a common stage to all the stakeholders of the tourism together at one stance with a motive to develop the concept of MoS (Man on Spot) and WoS (Woman on Spot) focusing on the local representatives. The tourism

management certainly requires a lot of geographical knowledge along with other information like cuisine, cultural activity, emergency support, logistics, etc.

Stretching the list of treasures that Odisha has to offer, there is the Black Pagoda, the Jagannath Temple, the Lingaraj Temple and so on. To bring the unexplored secrets of the state and to develop the local tourism of Odisha, EKTTA (Enterprising Knot of Travel and Tourism Associates) came up with their first annual convention. With the initiative to explore and pull out the new avenues in capacity building for tourism in Odisha, the full day power packed conclave was held in Bhubaneswar.

The EKTTA Convention was a holistic initiative that focused on promoting Odisha tourism worldwide and also to develop new points and generate ideas to create a proper mechanism and channel for tourism management. To have a dependable/reliable/

knowledgeable point of local contact, one who can take care of the guests for any support that might be required or to defuse the crisis, local resource is the best. The Idea of creating a local source point who can understand the specific geographical and cultural stance will certainly give a strategic boost to the state tourism.

The event had various b2b sessions and some presentations made by key stakeholders of the industry. This one day event is expected to open new paths of exploring and encouraging the tourism in Odisha.

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After the huge success of TTJ TRAVMART 2017 and 2018, TTJ organises the show in Chandigarh with an aim at tapping the business potential of tier II and III cities. The event was held at The Piccadily Hotel on March 27, 2019. After completing a successful journey of two years in 19 cities, the show extends the business opportunities to the travel trade fraternity of the

city and adjoining cities such as Mohali, Solan, Ludhiana, Amritsar, Ambala, Panchkula and Kapurthala.

encourages the business potential of Chandigarh

Sellers such as Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Trully India, Africa Incoming, Fortune Hotel, Entire World, Noor Mahal,

Simply Vacation, WelcomHeritage, Globus Holiday, Track Holidays, Cruise Professional, 1 Above, Oman Air, Jazeera Airways, Adi Holidays/Visa Waale, Diverse Hotel and Price Beat were the prestigious partners.

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IATO

Rahul Chakravarty has joined as COO of IATO on April 1st, 2019. He was earlier working with FICCI, heading the tourism division since last 15 years.

THE LEELA GOA

R. Srijith has been appointed as the new Director of Sales & Marketing at the Leela Goa. Starting his hospitality career with Ginger Hotels in 2008, Srijith has worked determinedly

to carve a niche for himself. He has an MBA in Marketing and Hospitality Management from Srinivas Institute of Management Studies, Manglore University. He carries with him a rich experience of 11 years in sales and marketing, having worked with IHHR Hospitality, Mahindra Namaste and Ginger Hotels before joining The Leela group in 2014. Before joining The Leela Goa, Srijith was with The Leela Kovalam (A Raviz Hotel) as the Director of Sales and Marketing.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, BENGALURU

Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru announces the appointment of Saharsh Vadhera as Director of Sales and Marketing. In his new role, Saharsh will head the hotel’s sales, events, revenue

management, reservations and marketing divisions. His key responsibilities will include overseeing all aspects of hotel sales and marketing strategies, optimising the hotel’s revenue and market share.

TAAI, PUNJAB CHAPTER

Ashwani Gupta, Accredited Representative and Managing Partner of Dove Travels, Amritsar, is appointed as the Chairman of TAAI Punjab Chapter. He will serve as the

Chairman of the Chapter for the interim period ending with the AGM of TAAI to be held during 2019. As per proposed schedule, there will be an election for the three positions of TAAI Punjab Chapter during July/August 2019 for the term 2019-2021.

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT SILIGURI

Having over 20 years of experience, Rohit Bajpai has been appointed as the Hotel Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri, the first Marriott Property of the North-East. His intrinsic

trait to pay attention to detail and make critical judgments has undoubtedly led to the services and facilities for the properties being top – notch in all aspects. In his current role, Rohit will be overseeing all aspects of operational and strategic management of the 17th ‘Courtyard by Marriott’ branded property to open in South Asia and the first in the east of India outside of Kolkata.

NOVOTEL IMAGICA KHOPOLI

Novotel Imagica Khopoli announced the appointment of Sachin Malhotra as the new General Manager, who comes with over 18 years of experience across a broad spectrum of

hospitality functions and holds specialization in hotel operations with an avid interest in f&b. In his new role, Sachin will spearhead the business operations, overall implementation and business development at Novotel Imagica Khopoli, ensuring its growth and expansion through innovative strategies. His impeccable attention to detail and hardworking nature has led to his achievements.

The Kempinski group of hotels, a group of luxury hotels and resorts organised a three city roadshow in March that covered New Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai. There

were representatives from 13 hotels that showcased their properties at the event. Kempinski hotels from Istanbul and Barbaros Bay Bodrum (Turkey), Dubai, Geneva, Munich, Red Sea and Dead Sea (Jordan), Budapest, Venice, Bali, Singapore, Vienna and Kitzbühel (Austria) were the exhibitors.

The prominent members of India’s travel and trade fraternity attended the luxury b2b show that was concluded by a raffle draw.

Kempinski steps up for a luxurious display of its properties

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Accor concludes Showcase 2019

with record breaking hotel and resort representation

The Accor Showcase this year saw more than 1,400 attendees that interacted with Accor representatives from hotels and resorts in India and abroad

representing 1,500 properties. For the past three years, the Accor Showcase has brought together key industry and Accor hotels and resorts representatives from India and around the world.

Over the years, the Showcase has served as an ideal platform to ideate on working together to leverage a thriving domestic and outbound tourism market in India. This year saw some of the most prominent corporates, wedding planners, leisure travel planners, travel agents, OTA’s (Online Travel Agencies), etc. as attendees.

RNI No. DELENG/2010/36163Reg. No. DL-SW-1/4155/2017-19 Posting Dt. 6-7/04/2019Date of Publication 5/04/2019 Posting at N.D.P.S.O

travmart pandaw lucknow, ahmedabad and many more …traveltradejournal.com/ttj-april-2019.pdf ·...

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