Asian Traveller December 2011

in this issueVOL.5 . NO. 03 . DECEMBER 2011

6 Betting big on cinemaIndia has taken a slew of measures to promote tourism, in the fi rst two weeks of December. The move that surprised many would be the decision to use cinema to promote various destinations in the country.

18 Ahmedabad readies for International Kite Festival 2012There is no better time to visit Ahmedabad, the Manchester of the East, than when it hosts International Kite Festival. Organised by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL), the festival will be held along the Sabarmati riverfront, between the Gandhi bridge and the Nehru bridge, from January 9-12, 2012.

19 Meet Santa at GalaxyBe at the Galaxy Hotel, a fi ve star luxury deluxe hotel based in Gurgaon, if you want to add extra cheer to this year’s X’mas and New Year celebrations.

20 India sets up hospitality development and promotion boardUnion government has approved the constitution of a Hospitality Development and Promotion Board (HDPB), to facilitate the clearances for hotel projects in a time bound manner and provide policy advice for the development of the sector.

41 Explore Dubai during DSF, with Jet Airways

42 Qatar Airways to introduce fi fth fl ight to London

43 Globus allows travellers to personalise vacation

45 It’s cake mixing time at Vivanta by Taj

45 Sharjah to host ITM 2012

Exclusive Interview As I Travel

V. DURAIKKANNANP 30

KARAN KAPURP 28

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4 ASIAN TRAVELLER | DECEMBER 2011

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Travellers might have cut their trips short. However, it is unlikely that they have shed the travel plans completely. It was this wanderlust amongst travellers that has assisted the travel and tourism industry to weather the

storms of downward dive of the economy brought about by the debt crisis and downgrading of the US economy. And it is a proof that the travel and tourism industry will be in the business, as long as people decide to travel, come what may. If 2011 was not as bad as projected for the industry, it owes to the travellers a lot. And the industry can repay them only through providing quality tourism experience. This will, in turn, create a win-win situation for both the travellers and the industry.

In 2011, travellers also did not spend much on luxury, as the economic climate was unstable. It is often hard times such as this that bring to light the sustainability of and the need for affordable luxury and affordable products and services. The demand for such kind of projects, products and services will surely shoot up in the near future, as the industry is seeing an unprecedented increase in the budget oriented travellers, year after year. In this wake, the stress should be on providing quality experience, while designing products for budget oriented travellers, as otherwise this fast growing market segment may see a natural death.

As far as the tourism industry is concerned, the year was eventful, as a lot of initiatives were seen across the globe, to grow

the industry in a sustainable and a responsible manner. This was also a year that saw several

countries identifying and admitting the potential of tourism, to bring in a comprehensive economic

growth. Looking ahead, 2012 holds a lot of promises for the industry. According to the European Travel

Commission, globally, overnight tourist arrivals will rise by around fi ve per cent in 2012, up from three

percent in 2011. It gives the travel and tourism industry a reason to welcome the New Year, on a happy note. We

wish all the readers a Merry X’mas and a Prosperous New Year.

G. Biju KrishnanEditor & Publisher

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Editor & Publisher : G. Biju Krishnan Chief Executive Officer : M. P. Sreekumar Group Editor : Anil Mathew* Brand Consultant : Shine Gopal Vice President : Sharath Kumar R Senior Sub Editor : Krishnadas P Sub Editor : Jagadeesh Narayan N Editorial Team : R. Parameswaran, Arya Anil, Lekshmi P, Smitha R Director - PR (Mumbai) : Ashok Bania Director, Tour Division : Joby K G GM (Marketing) : Briji Abraham GM (Finance) : Sreedevi R Manager (Marketing) : Ashok G SMarketing Coordinator : Dhanya Rajan Financial Advisor : Jayachandran S Legal Advisor : Adv. G.S. Prakash GM -Tamil Nadu : P. Deenadayalu

USA : Jiju K. Thomas Tel: 281-709-5433UK : Abdul Najeeb Tel: 0044-7769940391UAE : Sanjeev S L Tel: 00971 508914709Kuwait : Mariam Titus Tel: 00965 6638670Mumbai : Ashok Bania Tel: +91 9322915695Bengaluru : Sophy K. Magal Tel: +91 9343983719Kolkata : Sobha Joshi Tel: +91 9477406768Chennai : Nisha J Tel: +91 9841008588Hyderabad : K.S. Johnson Tel: +91 9441236010Indore : Manohar Bhati Tel: +91 9893559563Madurai : P. Deenadayalu Tel: +91 9843129535Ernakulam : Briji Abraham Tel: +91 9895703660TVM : Ashok G S Tel: +91 9745444177

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The news items and Advertisements published herein have been collected from various source, which are considered to be reliable. Readers are however requested to verify the facts before making business decisions using the same. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission from the Publisher.All rights reserved. Copyright © 2009*Responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act

5ASIAN TRAVELLER | DECEMBER 2011

As far as the tourism industry is concerned, the year was eventful, as a lot of initiatives were seen across the globe, to grow

manner. This was also a year that saw several countries identifying and admitting the potential

of tourism, to bring in a comprehensive economic growth. Looking ahead, 2012 holds a lot of promises

for the industry. According to the European Travel Commission, globally, overnight tourist arrivals will

rise by around fi ve per cent in 2012, up from three percent in 2011. It gives the travel and tourism industry

a reason to welcome the New Year, on a happy note. We wish all the readers a Merry X’mas and a Prosperous New

Year.

India has taken a slew of measures to promote tourism, in the first two weeks of December. The move that

surprised many would be the decision to use cinema to promote various destinations in the country. It is a concept fast gaining ground, across the globe. The growth of the entertainment industry and the increase in international travel are the major factors that have turned cinema as a medium, to promote destinations. Compared to other communication tools, cinema can be more effectively used to enhance awareness and create interest amongst travellers. Appealing to wide and diverse markets, film tourism offers something for everyone, just like the films themselves, and tourism organisations can use films as springboards, for marketing campaigns.

It has been widely recognised that destination image greatly influences tourist destination choice. The more favourable the image of the destination is, the more the likelihood of it being selected as a destination of choice. Countries like Thailand, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Spain, etc., have already, at different levels, used this medium to find a place on the global tourism map. While announcing the decision to promote film tourism, Union Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahay was candid in admitting

the role of cinema in promoting tourism worldwide and even mentioned the impact of the movie Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara had on Indian travellers. The film, no doubt, has created a sudden desire among the Indian travellers to explore various attractions in Spain.

Despite having a lot of natural and perfect filming locations across the country, presently, India hardly figures in the list of destinations of foreign film directors. If India wants to establish itself as a preferred destination for filming, the tourism ministry should spare no efforts in promoting these destinations. There should be proactive

efforts to encourage producers and studios to film at the location, efforts to generate media publicity around the film and its location, marketing activities that promote the film location after production and peripheral marketing activities that leverage film tourism potential. For this, the best option is to appoint public relations specialists. During and after the release of a film, media attention can be attracted to the film location. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), for example, heavily advertised its attractions during release of the film The Beach (2003).

One of the major economic benefits that film induced tourism can bring to the local community is enduring tourism receipts. Film locations can be all year, all weather attractions and hence there won’t be problems of seasonality in the tourism industry. Another significant benefit of the film tourism is that it increases the cultural value of the film location. Film tourism is a medium through which a range of cultural meanings and values may be communicated. Many heritage sites that serve as film locations gain popularity after the film release, because these places acquire specific meaning through film narration. Film can enhance the destination image and increase the awareness of the host city.

Betting big on cinema

� ASIAN TRAVELLER | DECEMBER 2011

OVERVIEW

� ASIAN TRAVELLER | DECEMBER 2011

THE BIG INTERVIEW

Would you please take us through the birth of Concept Hospitality Group? How do you see the growth graph of the company so far?

I set up Concept Hospitality in 1996, along with a team of professionals, as a hotel management company, to set up, manage and operate hotels and resorts. Concept launched its brand, the Fern Hotels and Resorts in 2009 and today, it is the leading environmentally sensitive hotel group across India. We presently operate 20 hotels, nine Fern Hotels and 11 independently branded hotels, with an inventory of 1246 rooms. Our growth graph so far has been very gratifying and by March

2013 we should double our inventory. The Fern has undoubtedly become a name in the hospitality sector and with this venture India has seen the birth of Ecotels. Was the Fern on the cards, when you co-founded Concept Hospitality along with Kamat Group?

While I was the Technical Director of Kamat Hotels, the brand Fern was not on the cards. However, when I bought over the company from Kamat Hotels, I decided to launch a new brand and focus on the same. We believe in growing horizontally and vertically, as opportunities come up, while never losing sight of our vision to provide

responsible tourism that will not harm Mother earth.What all factors have helped the group to build a brand in the Fern? Was the journey a cake walk?

Brand Fern has been developed and nurtured over a period of 2.5 years, with a dedicated team of

professionals, some of whom have worked and grown along with me, over the years. And, it was not a cake walk, although I was surprised to see so many new owners, who were willing to accept our brand, which was yet to prove itself. I guess, their faith in our team made them decide

Architect of the Fern brand

New concepts often take birth, when people want to trudge an entirely different path, to be different from the rest. And those ideas gain ground, when they yield productive results. Not only such innovative concepts, but the ones who introduced them also become popular. The success story of Param Kannampilly, Chairman and Managing Director of Concept Hospitality Group, who introduced the Ecotel concept to the Indian hospitality sector, should be a learning lesson for the new age entrepreneurs. He has shown to the world how a new concept can be introduced and turned into a trend, in a challenging environment. In an interview to Asian Traveller, besides taking us through the growth path of the Concept Hospitality Group, he detailed at length on the importance of going green and tier II and tier III markets. Edited Excerpts:

�ASIAN TRAVELLER | DECEMBER 2011

to support this new brand and my team and I are eternally grateful to our owners, who placed their trust in us.

The strength of our sales network in major cities/metros and the tie up with all online channels, both in India and abroad, have been the key factors in our growth. Our hotels are present on all online travel sites and GDSs and with our direct marketing and a dedicated team of operational heads, we have been able to focus on the branding of our properties being environmentally sensitive and developing them into Ecotels. For us, Ecotel is the hallmark of environmentally sensitive hotels.What motivated Concept Hospitality to travel the green route? How beneficial was such a move to the company?

The three positions in the hotel sector, i.e., professionalism, hospitality and cuisine, were already

occupied in the Indian hotel sector, by existing hotel chains. So, we dedicated to create the fourth position in environmentally sensitive certified hotels and launched the Fern brand of hotels and resorts, which is today the leading environmentally sensitive group.

Yes, the move has been beneficial to owners/investors, as green business is certainly good for any business. Reduction in wastage (in terms of water, energy and food) impacts the profitability of any unit, which results in increased operating profits. It, in turn, increases the value of their investments, paying rich dividends. The green move has also been beneficial to guests, as about 69 per cent of guests patronise environmentally sensitive hotels. We provided them a better environment to live in.

Then, we at Concept Hospitality has benefited from better profits due to increased GOPs, with implementation

of environmental initiatives resulting in better efficiency, in operating systems and procedures. When you compare with developed and other developing countries, how do you see the efforts of Indian hospitality players at reducing environmental impact and preserving natural resources? Have such efforts paid off in any way?

Compared to the developed and other developing countries, the presence of India in the global eco tourism market is negligible. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has estimated that if India concentrates on eco tourism, an additional 10 lakh visitors would come in an year and generate additional income of Rs 4300 crore annually. And, every 10 lakh invested could help create 47 jobs in tourism, 13 jobs in manufacturing and 45 jobs in agriculture.

It is unfortunate that the takers for eco tourism among Indian hoteliers are far fewer, than in other countries. If every Indian hotelier joins this mission, we can undoubtedly reap rich dividends, both in terms of business growth and preservation and conservation of natural resources.

Of course, development of Ecotels has definitely paid off. Take for instance one of our properties in Mumbai, Meluha The Fern, a five star Ecotel hotel. It has recently won the Today Travelers Award for the best Environment Friendly Hotel 2011, for its environment initiatives to reduce wastage and thus saving in terms of water, energy and other resources, resulting in better GOPs. Despite craving out a niche for Concept Hospitality Group in the hospitality sector, why is it that you are only focusing on managing properties, instead of owning them? What are its major advantages?

Owning a hotel property is a conflict of interest and we will not do it. We focus on creating wealth and reputation for the owners, who have placed their trust in us. Concept Hospitality presently owns the brand Fern Hotels and Resorts, which consists of the Fern and the Fern Residency. Would you please share with us the group’s expansion plans? When you go about expanding the presence, what are the factors you take into consideration, before venturing into a destination?

2011–2012 is a year of consolidation. We are strengthening the presence of our brand, the Fern. We are opening over five new hotels by March 2012 and are strengthening our sales and marketing, and operational teams. By March 2013, we should have 35 hotels, with an inventory of over 3500 rooms.

Presently we are operating The Fern Jaipur, an Ecotel hotel; Meluha The Fern Mumbai, an Ecotel hotel; Manasarovar the Fern Hyderabad, an Ecotel hotel;

The Fern Citadel Bengaluru, a business hotel; The Fern Gir Forest - Sasangir, Junagadh, an eco friendly hotel; The Fern Gardenia Palolem Goa, an eco friendly resort hotel; The Fern Residency Gurgaon, an Ecotel hotel, The Fern Samali Resort Dapoli, an eco friendly resort and The Fern Surya Resort Mahabaleshwar, an eco friendly resort.

Our independently branded hotels include The Floatel Kolkata, an eco friendly hotel, The Uppals Delhi, an Ecotel hotel, The


THE BIG INTERVIEW

Cabbana Jalandhar, an Ecotel hotel, The Seasons Service Apartment Hotel – Koregaon Park, Pune; The Seasons Service Apartment Hotel – Aundh, Pune; The Lagoona Resort Lonavala, an eco friendly resort; The Wall Street Jaipur, an eco friendly hotel; The Rodas Hotel Mumbai, an Ecotel hotel; The Quality Hotel The Regency Pune and The Hotel Eden, Dona Paula, Goa.

The Fern hotels that are due to open by march 2012 include Beumonde The Fern Kochi, an Ecotel hotel; The Fern Residency Chandigarh, an Ecotel hotel; The Fern Residency Rajkot; The Fern Residency Mumbai; Reseda The Fern Chennai, an Ecotel hotel; The Fern Residency – Omr, Chennai; The Fern Residency Solapur; The Fern Residency Tezpur and The Fern Residency Tirupur.

Before venturing into any destination, we do a complete market study/survey, to check to see the need for this property in that particular location. All factors, such as the competition, infrastructure, distance from airport, railway stations, business district, shopping centers, floating population, etc., are all considered, before making the final decision, to go ahead or not. How important a market will tier II and tier III cities be for the company? Why?

The influx of MNCs in the country that has started after liberalisation is to continue after the brief slump that has recently occurred. This will add to the flurry of industrial activity in the country, particularly in tier II and III cities where cheaper land, other resources and labour are available in plenty, compared to the metros. This will result in an increased demand for hotel rooms in these areas, in the next decade. We look forward to tremendous growth in the near future in tier II and III cities, thanks to the huge upwardly mobile domestic market coming up there, even as other markets like US and UK are witnessing a de-growth. The Indian hotel industry will more than triple the number of rooms, from the current levels, in the next 10 years. The rate of development of rooms would be much higher, something that we have not seen in the past 10 years, in the current and immediate industrial growth scenario. Would you please update us on the status of your plans to enter into markets such as Bangladesh, South Africa and Tanzania? Why have you selected these destinations to make your presence in overseas?

Entrepreneurs from these regions have contacted us to develop their properties/ take over their existing properties and develop Ecotels for them.

12

INDIAN PANORAMA

A classic landThere are some places which will entirely transport you to a bygone era. Hampi is one such destination. What you see here is not just ruins of a glorious past, but classical frames that depict the grandeur of a golden era

If dreams were made of stones, Hampi in Karnataka is a vast

graveyard of shattered dreams. There could not be a more apt description for a place so beautiful. At Hampi, the remnants of an unbelievably glorious past that lies scattered on the banks of the Tungabhadra River will extend you a hearty welcome. Even in its ruined form, Hampi speaks of its glorious past – of diamond and pearl

markets, of palaces, of kings and queens, and of temples. Look around and it will strike you that it is a rocky land. Even an ordinary looking pile of rocks may have a saga of great significance to tell. So, leave no stone unturned.

Doted around the hills and valleys are innumerable monuments, which have stood the ravages of time. They still have in it the power to evoke memories of the grandeur of a bygone era. Take your each step bearing

in mind that there is a surprise awaiting you at every turn.

Hampi has an epical history, as the capital of Kishkindha, the monkey kingdom mentioned in Ramayana and an empirical history, as the capital city of the Vijayanagara empire. The whole of Kishkindha Kanda episode of Ramayana is built in and around Hampi. This is the very place, where Hanuman was born, where he met Lord Rama, where Bali

Now a UNESCO world heritage site, the glory of the yesteryear Hampi can be found in the ruins spread over an area of about 25 square kilometres. The attractions include, giant temples, palaces, aquatic structures, fortifications and aplenty of ancient monuments


INDIAN PANORAMA

fought his brother Sugriva and where Rama had stayed. Hampi and its environs are considered holy ground and many of its sites and names, including Anjeyanadri hill, Matanga hill and Malyavanta hill are connected with the episodes of Ramayana.

The empirical history of Hampi says that this village, located within the ruins of Vijayanagara, was founded by Maharani Gayathri Giri of Anna Rubber. It was Krishnadevaraya, the greatest ruler of Vijayanagara, who built a large number of royal buildings in Hampi. It was a period that saw resurgence in art and architecture. The golden period ended as the Deccan Muslim Confederacy laid siege to it.

Now a UNESCO world heritage site, the glory of the yesteryear Hampi can be found in the ruins spread over an area of about 25 square kilometres. The attractions include, giant temples, palaces, aquatic structures, fortifications and aplenty of other ancient monuments. Since a visit to Hampi is a sojourn into the past, the best way to experience this heritage site is to take a leisurely stroll through the eloquent ruins. Most of the

important structures and ruins are located in two areas, which are generally referred to as the royal centre and the sacred centre.

To get the most authentic evidence of Hampi’s glorious era, visit the archaeological museum, located at Kamalapura. You will

surely be astonished at the collection of the remnants of Hampi. The museum has four galleries and the main attraction is the replica of Hampi valley that features, among other things, image of Krishnadevaraya and his queens greeting visitors at the entrance. The museum has

on display a large number of artefacts belonging to the Veerabhadra cult and Shiva worship, an array of tools, arms, coinages and other objects that were in use in Vijayanagara and antiquities from the prehistoric and proto historic period.

Once you are back into the present Hampi from the museum, visiting its temples will be the next best thing to do. One can start with Virupaksha temple, which rises majestically at the western end of the famous Hampi Bazaar, as all journeys to Hampi start and end here. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the oldest active temples in India. The temple comes with a sanctum, three ante chambers, a pillared hall and a Mukha Mantap/Ranga Mantap or an open pillared hall. A pillared cloister, entrance gateways, courtyards, attendant shrines and other mantaps surround the temple. The Ranga Mantap consists of 38 pillars, which are divided into two vertical sections. One section is cut to resemble a rearing Yali (a mythical lion) standing on a crocodile, while the other

The most splendid monument in Hampi is undoubtedly the Vittala temple complex, which is built in the shape of a sprawling campus, with compound walls and gateway towers. The highlights of the temple are its impressive pillared halls and stone chariot

section is basically square and depicts mostly Shiva themes.

The east end of the temple ends at the foothill of Matanga Hill, which is the best spot to get an aerial view of Hampi and its surroundings. It is the most talked about hill in Hampi and the Veerabhadra temple is located at its top. You can take any of the three paths to reach atop it, from where you can enjoy a memorable sunrise and sunset. Hemakuta hill, one of the tallest hills in the region, is situated nearby and it is also a known spot that offers a spectacular sunrise and sunset. Here you can find remains of stonewalls that were tall and wide.

On the slope of the hill, there are two shrines, each featuring huge stone images of Ganesha. The Sasivekalu Ganesha temple has in it an idol of Ganesha that is about 2.5 metres, while the Kadalekalu Ganesha shrine features a huge seated Ganesha sculpture that is about 4.5 meters tall. The temple is also one of the important vintage points, from where one can have the breathtaking view of the monuments in Hampi.

The most splendid monument in Hampi is undoubtedly the Vittala temple complex and it can be referred to as the epicentre of Hampi’s attractions. Built in the shape of a sprawling campus, with compound walls and gateway towers, the temple is dedicated to Vittala, a form of Lord Vishnu. The highlight of the temple is its impressive pillared halls and stone chariot. The giant granite pillars of the halls feature wow-inspiring sculptures and the outermost of these pillars are carved in the shape of musical instruments and emit musical tones when tapped. The music performed with these instruments, which are

still functional, during the festivals can be heard at a distance of 10 kilometres away from the temple.

The stone chariot located inside the temple complex is almost an iconic structure and it resembles the temple chariots or ‘rathas’, in which the idols are usually taken out on a traditional procession. In fact, as you enter the temple complex, this chariot will be the first thing that grabs your attention. An image of Garuda, the vehicle of lord Vishnu, was originally enshrined within its sanctum. The chariot is built on a rectangular platform and is richly carved with mythical battle scenes. Though the chariot is not resting on it, the four giant wheels attached mimic the real ones, complete with the axis shafts and the brakes. A series of concentric floral motifs decorate the wheels and there are two elephants in front of the chariot, giving the impression that they are pulling the chariot. You can also spot a broken stone ladder in between the elephants that once gave access to the sanctum. The chariot, one will admit, truly represents the sparkling creativity of the artistes of the 15th century.

To the southwest of Vittala temple, there is another attractive monument in the King’s Balance, where kings were weighed against grain, gold or money, which was then distributed to the poor. Nearby, you can also locate Purandaradasa Mantapa, a small open pillared pavilion with whitewashed top, dedicated to the legendary poet Purandaradasa, who lived in Hampi. It is situated on the banks of Tungabhadra. If you stroll along the riverside path, you can pay a visit to the big Sugriva Cave, where Sugriva, according to the legends, kept Sita’s jewels. The cave is marked with red and


Incredible India

white colour, and the white mark on the rock is believed to be Sita’s sari border.

For an entirely different experience, you can head to the underground temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. On the way, if you wish, you can stopover to take a look at the Lakshmi Narasimha idol, a giant monolithic statue, and Sister Stones, a natural archway formed by two massive stones leaning on each other. The ruined underground temple is fairly large and its sanctum and other parts are perennially under water. Then, it is also worth visiting Hazara Rama temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. Believed to be the royal family’s private place of worship, the temple depicts incidents of Ramayana through brilliantly carved stone images, on the exterior walls. Hampi is also home to Bala Krishna temple, Yantrodharaka Anjaneya temple, Kodanda Rama temple, Achyutaraya temple, Hemakuta Hill temples and Pattabhirama temple.

If you are through with the temples, it is time to head to the Royal enclosure. Sprawling over several hundred square meters, the fortified area of Royal enclosure is scattered, with a number of interesting relics. The most imposing structure in this area is the Mahanavami Dibba/Dussehra Platform/House

of Victory, which was built when Krishnadevaraya came back victorious, defeating the king of Orissa. As the name indicates, this was the platform from where the kings reviewed the nine-day festivities of Dussehra. King’s audience hall or the 100-pillared hall is located within the enclosure, in the northwest area and it

is a sight in itself. Remains of pedestal of a palace, decorated with the bold carvings of elephants, horses and dancers, and remains of the stepped tank built in chlorite schist, are other major attractions at the Royal enclosure.

Then, there is Zenana enclosure or the ladies quarters that consists of the Queen’s palace, Lotus Mahal,

quarters for maids and a water pavilion. Lotus Mahal is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture. Located outside the Zenana enclosure, on the east, is the Elephant stables, which was once a shelter for the royal elephants. This long structure is made of a series of chambers, with domical roofs. Another attraction that will

catch your eyes is quarters for guards. The rectangular structure with a veranda in front has a very fine façade, comprising of eleven arches. On the Kamalapura-Hampi main road you can find Queen’s Bath, the bathing place of the royal women.

Trip to Hampi does not end with visits to temples and palaces. It is also a

place where you can spot a number of water tanks and canals. Raya Canal, Basavanna Canal, Turthu Canal and the huge tank at Kamalapura, which are still in use, are just some of the major irrigation works of the Vijayanagara rulers. Take the local coracle ferry services, a circular shaped country boat, to get access to places like Virupapur Gadde and Anegondi. The journey itself will be a rare experience and a fascinating one. Major tourist attractions in Anegondi include a hill-top shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Pampa Sarovar with a sacred tank, ruins of Gagan Mahal, a stone bridge, Chandramouliswara temple and Ranganath temple. You can also find caves dating back to prehistoric times.

A complete world in itself, tour to Hampi is never ending. There is much to be seen in Hampi than what is listed.

1� ASIAN TRAVELLER | DECEMBER 2011

INDIAN PANORAMA

Take the local coracle ferry services, a circular shaped country boat, to get access to places like Virupapur Gadde and Anegondi. The journey itself will be a rare and fascinating experience

NEWSLINE

Ahmedabad readies for International Kite Festival 2012There is no better time

to visit Ahmedabad, the Manchester of

the East, than when it hosts International Kite Festival. The sight of sky filled with kites of different colours, shapes and sizes is awesome and very beautiful and it is something that will linger in your memory for long. With a bigger and a better festival on the cards in 2012, this largest city in Gujarat deserves to find a place in your itinerary, in January next year. Organised by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL), the festival will be held along the Sabarmati riverfront, between the Gandhi bridge and the Nehru bridge, from January 9-12, 2012. This is also the time of the year, when hundreds of thousands of tourists throng to the streets of Ahmedabad, exploring its various attractions, while enjoying every moment of the kite festival.

The International Kite Festival, coinciding with the festival of Uttarayan or Makar Sankranti, is always

how Ahmedabad enjoys kite flying on January 14. Gujarat celebrates Makar Sankranti on January 14 every year and it is the time of the year when the family members come together and enjoy the jest of cutting each other’s kites.

It is learnt that TCGL has plans to take the international

held at bustling Ahmedabad. People start flying kites at the onset of dawn and the craze continue the whole day. Even after sunset, you can find illuminated kites gliding high into the sky, competing with the stars. Usually, people occupy rooftops or terraces, for flying kites. With the air full of music and traditional delicacies on offer, the kite flying festival is also an opportunity to know Gujarat, more intimately, as visitors can splurge on food, shop from craft bazaars and enjoy watching kites of different size and shape flying along the banks of Sabarmati.

“This year, besides kite flying, the International Kite Festival will also include other activities. There will be a light and sound show, workshops and training on kite making,” says, an official at TCGL. There will also be a separate pavilion to showcase history and significance of kites, to introduce people to the novel concept of kite flying. “We will also call some of the kite makers so that people can know how kites are made,” adds the official.

TGCL also plans to showcase the traditional Gujarati way of celebrating the kite festival to those visiting the city. As part of this, they may take foreign kite fliers to a pol and let them watch for themselves

kite fliers to Kutch and organise kite festival there. “The idea is to promote Kutch as a tourist destination. The kite festival in Kutch will be part of Rannotsav and it will also become one of the features to attract more people to Kutch during this season,” the official signs off.


With a 78-room four star property in Chembur and

a 120-room five star hotel in Goregaon, Concept Hospitality, which manages the Fern brand of Ecotels, is set to double its room inventory in Mumbai, by 2013. While the property at Chembur will be an addition to the Fern Residency brand, the company has not yet decided on branding of its proposed property in Goregaon. The expansion will bring the company’s room inventory in the financial capital of India to over 400. Currently, the company has 212 rooms operational

in the city.In another move, Concept

Hospitality will open Magnolia, a fine dining continental restaurant in Mumbai, soon. “We plan to give our guests an experience of high-end dining, complete with limousine pick-up and the best continental cuisine, in an ambiance to suit. These offerings are available in very few hotels in Mumbai,” says, Suhail Kannampilly, Vice President - Operations, Concept Hospitality.

Concept Hospitality’s expansion plans are not limited to Mumbai, alone. The company is expected to open an 80-room hotel at

Be at the Galaxy Hotel, a five star luxury deluxe hotel based in Gurgaon,

if you want to add extra cheer to this year’s X’mas and New Year celebrations. You can shop for amazing X’mas and New Year gifts at its sprawling retail space, experiencing Indian art and heritage through the eclectic selection of products on offer and then, savour aromatic coffee and delicious cakes at Beanstalk, its café and

pastry shop at the centre of the shopping arcade. The hotel is located just off the NH 8 and will take only 20 minute drive from the domestic and international airports.

At Galaxy, you can feel the spirit of Yuletide and Santa, and the music belted out by a live band at Howzatt, India’s first pub brewery, adds to the festive mood.

Realising that no X’mas and New Year celebration is complete without delicious

Meet Santa at Galaxy

cakes and puddings using finest ingredients, the hotel has come up with delights such as succulent dry fruit plum cake, plum cake with white icing, German stollen bread, plum pudding with mixed fruits, mince pie cake and dandy cake with almonds.

You can gather with your family and friends atop the terrace and the sparkling wine and live barbeque will offer you some unforgettable moments and memories. “The festival offerings at Galaxy comprise of favourite and secret recipes, and the

cakes and pudding menu have been handpicked, in order to introduce the best of the confections to our customers. We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a fantabulous New Year,” says, Vivek Sharma, General Manager, Galaxy Hotel.

Concept Hospitality to bolster its presence in Mumbai

Pimpri, Pune by October 2012, construction of which is under progress. It has also acquired the management contract

for an existing property, The Citadel Bangalore, which will be renamed as The Fern Citadel Hotel Bengaluru.

1�ASIAN TRAVELLER | DECEMBER 2011

NEWSLINE


NEWSLINE


Indian hospitality sector may see speedy implementation of

projects in the near future, as the union government has approved the constitution of a Hospitality Development and Promotion Board (HDPB), to facilitate the clearances for

hotel projects in a time bound manner and provide policy advice for the development of the sector. The board will be chaired by the Tourism Secretary, Government of India, at the central level. The move comes in the wake of various reports indicating

that the country may require an additional four lakh hotel rooms by 2016, to provide a comfortable stay to the growing number of inbound travellers.

The union government has also asked the state/union territory administrations to

set up similar boards, to boost the growth of hospitality sector. Mizoram, Manipur and Maharashtra already have state level HDPBs, while Bihar takes care of the needs of its hospitality sector through State Investment Promotion Board (SIPB).

India sets up hospitality development and promotion board

Captain C P Krishnan Nair, Chairman and Founder of the Leela

Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award, at the launch of Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Travel Awards in India. Hosted by eminent media personality Anish Trivedi, the glittering event, which was graced by the presence of Subodh Kant Sahay, Minister of Tourism, Govt. of India and Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, was held at The Leela Palace New Delhi, recently.

Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Travel Awards, internationally recognised as a benchmark for excellence in the travel and tourism industry, are adjudged by the

travellers. Every year, the US and British editions of Condé Nast Traveller conduct these awards. This is the first time Indian readers have voted for their favourites.

The recipient of several prestigious accolades, Captain Nair was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his inspiring leadership, unprecedented grit, unwavering commitment to excellence and outstanding business acumen that has established The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts as one of the leading hospitality brands in India.

“It is a great honour to be recognised by the industry. The hospitality industry is one

of modern India’s big success stories and I am honoured and humbled to be a part of it,” smiles a modest Nair, a known environmentalist, hotelier and a visionary.

For Captain Nair it was a double delight at Condé Nast

Traveller’s Readers’ Travel Awards. The Leela Palace Udaipur, the group’s modern palace hotel on the banks of the Lake Pichola in Rajasthan, was voted as a favourite by Condé Nast Traveller’s readers in India. With 80 rooms and suites facing the placid waters of the lake, the hotel offers uninterrupted views of the heritage city.

With beautifully embellished spa tents to blend in with the ethos of Rajasthan and private plunge pools, ESPA at The Leela Palace Udaipur, was voted as the second Favourite Hotel Spa in India.

Condé Nast Traveller honours Capt. Nair with lifetime achievement award

A Rocking Water WorldWith its miles of sandy beaches, towering limestone cliffs, mysterious caves, stunning coral reefs, spectacular waterfalls and lively national parks, Krabi will offer you an unmatched holiday experience


THAILAND

It is not the miles of sandy beaches adorned with deckchairs and beach

umbrellas that will capture your eyes, first. Not because they are not attractive enough! But, the beauty of the stone formations is simply more captivating and compelling. Then, slowly, you notice the awe-inspiring scenery around. It will surely take another

couple of minutes to realise that you are standing in the natural shadow provided by the trees. If, at the very first sight, you are transported to

an entirely different planet, it is just the beginning of the great Krabi experience awaiting you. The coral fringed islands will intoxicate

you like anything and you are sure to feel like trying your hands at sailing, scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, rock climbing and trekking, all at the same time.

Facing the Andaman sea, idyllic Krabi has in it destinations, where you can indulge in exciting soft and extreme adventure sports. Some of the beaches here are accessible only by longtail boats and the journey to such secluded beaches is gonna be one of its kind experiences that will fill you with lasting joy. It is also one of those destinations, where you can enjoy the most photogenic sunsets by beachside (bar) and sip the taste of an active nightlife, to its tilt. This alluring tropical coastal area in the southern province of Thailand has in it all the ingredients, from excellent beaches, water sports, limestone cliffs, coral reefs, caves, waterfalls, to national parks, bird watching centres, hot springs, wildlife sanctuaries, topographical rarities and fine seafood, to offer you a memorable holiday. In fact, with enough avenues to turn both days and nights into great holidaying experiences, one could easily spend weeks in this southern province of Thailand.

Krabi, situated along the banks of Krabi River, is a charming riverside town filled with cosy cafés, where you can savour authentic Thai cuisine, enjoying the panoramic views around. The atmosphere is tranquil and the cool breeze from the riverside just adds to the romantic ambience. Visit any of its café in the evening, for a perfect dining experience. It is an important port city and the local fisher men at work, is a common sight. To gain insight into Thai culture, all that one needs to do is to just wander


THAILAND

To gain insight into Thai culture, all that one needs to do is to just wander around the Krabi town. Pay a visit to the bustling market, in the morning and take a stroll along the banks of the river, in the evening. And, you will know the pulse of Krabi

around the Krabi town. Pay a visit to the bustling market, in the morning and take a stroll along the banks of the river, in the evening. And, you will know the pulse of Krabi.

If you prefer to spend the day in Krabi, with attractions such as Krabi Contemporary Art Gallery and Tiger Cave Temple, you are sure to have a great time. As the name indicates, the temple is located in a cave and there are about 1237 monumental steps,

leading to a mountain top. Atop the mountain, there is a statue of Buddha. The temple is surrounded by mountains and a rich tropical forest. The sight from atop the mountain is impressive enough and you can have the full view of the

Krabi countryside, on a clear day.

If you had enough of spiritual experience in a stunning natural surrounding, it is time to plan a trip to the hot springs that is located about 40 kilometres

Hat Noppharat Thara beach, with its rocky, limestone islands, is known for the spectacular scenery it offers to the travellers. This beach destination is home to Susaan Hoi, or Shell Cemetery, where fossilised shells lie perfectly preserved, embedded in layers of shell and rock

from the site of shrine. The pool can be visited at any time of the year and do not forget to enjoy its natural water, until you are content enough. Then, there are options in Emerald pool, Namtok Ron Khlong Thom (a waterfall situated near the Emerald pool), Sa Kaeo (where you can spot eight small natural ponds) and Khao Khanap Nam (two mountains with beautiful caves), to spend the rest of the day. Once you are back in Krabi town, head to its contemporary art gallery, to get the taste of works of local artists. Though not the top destination in itself, Krabi can be considered as the travel centre, from where you can take the ferry to nearby attractions, including Hat Noppharat Thara, Ao Nang, Railay and Ko Phi Phi National Park.

After relaxing at Krabi, make your move to Hat Noppharat Thara, a quiet beach destination located around 18 kilometres from Krabi town. The beach lies within the Hat Noppharat Thara-Koh Phi Phi National Park and the striking feature about this three-kilometre long sandy stretch is the casuarina trees that line up along it. If you prefer natural shade, it is an excellent beach for you. Buy a beach mat, select a spot of your choice,


THAILAND

sip a drink, have some snacks and enjoy the beauty of the beach, in all its glory. It is an ideal beach for the ones, who like to swim, eat and laze in the sun.

Hat Noppharat Thara beach, with its rocky, limestone islands, is known for the spectacular scenery it offers to the travellers and hence one won’t regret the time one spends here. This beach was earlier called Hat Khlong Haeng, which in local language meant dried canal beach. The canal usually dries up during low tide and at this point of time one can easily walk across to Koh Kao Pak Klong Island. Once in Hat Noppharat, it is a must to visit Susaan Hoi, or Shell Cemetery as it is popularly called, where fossilised shells lie perfectly preserved, embedded in layers of shell and rock. You will surely find the entire thing fascinating and there are only two other sites of its kind in the world, one in US and the other in Japan. There is a small museum nearby it and here you can take a journey back to the history of the site and details of fossils. You can also find a couple of shops, from where you can buy shells of varied shapes, sizes and colours.

From Hat Noppharat Thara, set out to Ao Nang, one of Thailand’s best and busiest beach destinations. Located just around six kilometres from Hat Noppharat, Ao

Nang is predominately a soft and adventure sports destination. Do not hesitate to enjoy snorkelling, kayaking, scuba-diving, white-water rafting and fishing, as otherwise your beach experience at Ao Nang will remain incomplete. Besides

water sports, it also offers enough avenues for elephant trekking, hiking, rock climbing and shopping. If you are travelling with family, you are guaranteed a great time here. For party lovers, there are a number of pubs and

nightclubs, offering enough facilities to enjoy one’s heart out. Foodies will surely be spoilt for choice, as Ao Nang has in it restaurants offering authentic Thai, Italian, Indian and Scandinavian food. This pristine beach destination is also home to numerous

spas, massage parlours and beauty shops, and they are just perfect for one of the best rejuvenating experiences.

From Ao Nang, take a longtail boat to stunning Rai Lay beach. It will take only about 20 minutes to

reach this luxurious tropical paradise that is cut off from the mainland, by the towering limestone hills. Surrounded by the Andaman Sea, the beach offers a secluded ambience and the limestone cliffs along with lush forests and twisted rocks add to the beauty of this adventurous tourist spot. The water is crystal clear and warm and hence it is an ideal place for swimming, kayaking and snorkelling. Paddling silently through spectacular rock formations or along the network of canyons or mangroves will surely be a pleasant experience. Also, this beach destination is home to a number of caves that are worth exploring. Another

Home to numerous limestone cliffs, overhangs and caves, Rai Lay has in it something to challenge everyone, from a professional climber to a complete beginner


THAILAND

important activity on offer at Rai Lay is rock climbing. Whether one is a serious climber or not, one will find it hard to resist trying one’s hand at rock climbing. Home to numerous limestone cliffs, overhangs and caves, Rai Lay has in it something to challenge everyone, from a professional climber to a complete beginner. The view from atop such cliffs is breathtaking and will remain in one’s mind for a long time.

Your beach experience does not end with Rai Lay beach. There are as many as about 80 other small islands in the Krabi province, such as Lanta, Koh Lanta, Ko Ha, Ko Hai, Poda Island, Mu Ko Poda and Phi Phi Island, which are

ideal locations for adventures, yachtsmen, scuba-divers, day-trippers, etc. Each of these beach destination offers you a unique atmosphere, which in turn instils in you a desire to explore every spot, with a longing to be in an entirely different world.

Other not to be missed attractions in and around the Krabi include Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, Than Bok Khorani National Park, Namtok Ron Khlong Thom,

Wat Khlong Thom Museum, Pa Phru Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam, Sa Kaeo and Khao Khanap Nam. Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, Krabi’s only on land national park, with its lush forest, mountain ranges, waterfalls, streams and caves, is sure to catch the imagination of any holidaymaker. Here, besides about 250 species of birds, you can spot wild animals such as Asian tapir, Sumatran serow, Asiatic black bear and Fishing cat. Your trip to this national park will remain incomplete, if you are not including waterfalls such as Namtok Huai To and Namtok Huai Sade, in the itinerary.

It is also worth visiting Than Bok Khorani National

Park. Covered by a canopy of diverse species of trees such as wild gardenia, asoka and apocynaceae, this national park has in it attractions such as Tham Phi Hua To, a cave with prehistoric paintings, and Mu Ko Hong, a group of limestone islands with crystal clear water, fine beaches and coral reefs. The verdant mangrove forests offer a pleasant sight and it is recommended that you take a longtail boat ride through

Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, Krabi’s only on land national park, with its lush forest, mountain ranges, waterfalls, streams and caves, is sure to catch the imagination of any holidaymaker

it, to take home a memorable experience. From this national park, you can easily access attractions like Than Bokkhorani stream, Tham Lot, a tunnel under a limestone mountain where stalactite and stalagmite formations are found and caves such as Tham Phi Hua To and Tham Chao Le.

There are still a lot of places to be explored in Krabi. Pranang beach and cave,

Wat Khlong Thom Museum, Namtok Hin Phoeng, Khao Khanap Nam, Mu Ko Poda, Thale Waek, Tham Sadet, Tham Suea Khao Kaeo Ao Luk Thanu, Pa Phru Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam, Namtok Ron Khlong Thom, Khao Pra-Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary, Ko Talabeng and Tham Khao Phueng are some of them. No wonder, if you feel like extending your trip to Krabi indefinitely.


THAILAND


Incredible India


EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

The TFS ManIdentifying a business opportunity in a nascent segment would not be a difficult task. It, however, takes a lot of courage to venture into such a sector, with a determination to turn it a success and offer quality services that exceed the expectations of the target group. The success story of Travel Food Services (TFS), which has changed the entire concept of food and beverage (F&B) experience of travellers at airports, has its root in such a daring move. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Karan Kapur, Director, TFS, cut a clear picture of the role of F&B segment in large scale travel infrastructure projects. Edited Excerpts:

Muscat and Salalah airports, in Oman. What would you say are TFS’ core strengths that have helped the company to create a strong operating profile, even though the industry is nascent and evolving?

TFS’s core strength is its passion for food, which is the foundation for everything it does. Our strong and proven execution expertise within the airport, which is far more challenging than other operating environments, is another factor that has helped us make this venture a huge success. Next in line is our relentless focus on research, development and innovation - we keep our ears very close to the ground, listening to our travelling customers, anticipating their requirements, understanding their mindset and psyche, at the outset of a journey. We have been in the F&B industry for almost 40 years and our deep customer and passenger insights, we believe, enable us to connect to them and ensure high quality food and services to all our customers. Catering to local tastes is crucial and today, customers are very discerning and expect a refined and a unique offering that always exceed their expectations. What are the initiatives you have taken to transform the F&B landscape within the travel industry? How far have they paid off?

Not too long ago, there was a time, airports were not considered a place to relax and spend time. In terms of food and beverage, people used to only look forward to ‘fly and eat’. But today, we believe, the new range we have introduced has been instrumental in developing a thought amongst consumers to ‘eat and fly’, an attitude and a mindset change that is extremely defining. We have

In the travel industry, food and beverage (F&B) is usually an uncommon choice of venture. What went behind the inception of TFS and why did you choose to operate in the niche ‘travel infrastructure’ segment?

TFS was incepted in 2009, to focus on F&B opportunities in the niche travel infrastructure segment. The transformation of Indian airports, in recent years, has been the fountain head of a new entrepreneurial spirit, amongst the country’s travel retail companies. The emergence of low cost airlines brought in a paradigm shift in the model of air travel and enhanced the connectivity between major metros and smaller cities. The change in

thought process of airport operators, especially post the privatisation of Indian airports, opened up a huge opportunity in the airport F&B segment, which was initially totally untapped. It offered new links in the value chain that highlighted the potential for better non-aeronautical revenues. This saw the integration of more stakeholders and a renewed emphasis on ‘enhancing the food and beverage experience’ of air passengers.

In a short span of time, we have expanded rapidly and are already catering to about 50 million passengers, across a number of airports. TFS is an F&B master concessionaire, at both Mumbai and Delhi airports.

Would you please take us through the growth path of TFS, since its launch in 2009?

TFS has played the role of a catalyst, to maximise F&B sales and complement airport revenues. It has made us an integral player within India’s fast growing airports. Over the past two years, TFS has expanded its operations and will soon touch 100 outlets, with 20 different bespoke partner brands like KFC, Nirulas, Café Coffee Day, Haagen-Dazs and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, and over 10 unique proprietary brands such as Curry Kitchen, Cafeccino and Idli.com. In addition to Mumbai and Delhi airports, TFS also has operations in Trivandrum and Cochin airports, in India and


EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

created unique concepts and a wide range of products at different price points, to cater to various customer needs. We want to offer customers a lasting memory of a particular location and in doing so, we ultimately create loyalty. The creation of ‘signature dishes’ is central to TFS’s tailored approach, at each airport. People want a souvenir and we can offer them the same through unique local food. For example, in Mumbai airport we offer a version of chicken biryani that is unique to the city and in Delhi, we serve ‘parathas’, a kind of flat bread that is a popular Delhi street food. Idli.com is a quick service concept and offers a wide selection of unique ‘idlis’, a favourite south Indian dish.

We offer a multi brand environment at airports, with the best mix of proprietary and global brands, to cater to diverse customers with varied food preferences. Through different formats, including QSRs, fine dining, lounges and bars, we offer passengers a truly refreshing world class travel experience, as far as F&B is concerned. Therefore, I believe, TFS has taken a leadership role in creating and offering new standards in airport F&B, which is already on the way to redefine the travel experience.What is the opportunity you see for TFS in large scale travel infrastructure projects? How do airports benefits from ventures like TFS?

Privatisation has brought in a totally new opportunity for TFS and it has led us to focus on innovation and believe in customising offers for passengers. We work closely with our airport partners, to consistently exceed expectations of all our stakeholders. TFS has a proven ability to manage large scale projects, while delivering

a one-to-one connect with each consumer. Our proven execution capabilities, operational excellence standards and strong network of chefs and brands (both internally and externally) help us to deliver and customise our services, to the requirements of a large scale travel infrastructure landlord. As of now, how involved are you in designing, or while planning, large scale travel infra projects? How important it is that the authorities concerned take your inputs into consideration, in such projects?

TFS, through a constant research and engagement process, understands the Indian food preferences and the domestic customer’s taste buds. Great thought has been applied to structural planning and execution, while

developing all the concepts at the airports. Attention to details, including ambience and design elements such as lighting, furnishings, accessories, uniforms and furniture placement, have been given great emphasis, as they are vital elements in customer experience. To create unique experiences, we interact with landlords on a regular basis and in certain cases, we sit with them to plan the right range, locations, as well as facilities that are needed for our projects. Landlords are extremely

receptive and positive on this and we have seen increased cooperation between the landlord and F&B operator. The results have been far greater for the customer experience.How is TFS being able to cater to the growing number of passengers, at the airports and how do you convert them into customers?

In Mumbai and Delhi airports, we have set up entire kitchen facilities to dish out fresh food every day, to our consumers. Besides, we have a strong and dedicated team that works extremely hard to deliver a consistent high quality product 24 hours, a day and 365 days, a year. Constant innovation, consistent and high quality food and motivated staff, who will not only help the customer make the right

choice but also introduce him to our new offerings, are just some of the ingredients behind the success of TFS. Have you charted any growth plan for your operations in India and abroad?

TFS has a long term growth strategy in place, to leverage emerging opportunities within large scale travel infrastructure projects. While our main focus remains on India, we are also aggressively looking to expand our operations beyond the country. Recently, we have commenced operations in

the Muscat International and Salalah airports and it is TFS’ first attempt at going global. The 12 units in Muscat and Salalah airports have received an encouraging response from the passengers and it has motivated us to plan further expansion within the region. What has been your experience in handling the diverse categories of passengers and catering to their unique needs?

The stress has always been on on-going learning process, since the launch of the company. In order to handle a wide consumer base with different tastes, TFS spends significant time to conduct passenger preference research, to create right offerings, right service style and right products. We believe our people are our strongest asset and this has been the driving factor in delivering quality services to customers in a way that exceed their expectations. How has the response been from the passengers at airports? How challenging a task it is to meet their changing needs?

The response has been encouraging, so far. TFS will soon have over 100 outlets at the airports. We expand the outlets in proportion with the increase in passenger ratings. Currently, TFS has expanded its operations near the arrival area, with an aim to accelerate the grow momentum.

On a day-to-day basis, there is always a challenge to keep up-to-date with the market as well as consumer preferences and their changing mindsets. We face such challenges very positively and undertake meticulous research, to shape up products and services that meet the need of the hour. This shows our commitment to provide a world class F&B experience to all passengers at airports.

V Duraikkannan

COLUMN

ASIAN TRAVELLER | DECEMBER 201130

We talk about vagaries of weather. The vagaries of

countries and their customs and practices are even more interesting and intriguing. I was away at Macau for a convention, in the third week of November 2011. The city looked as if it were essentially designed for gambling, Asia’s answer to America’s Las Vegas! Interestingly enough, Las Vegas boasts of gambling as one of its top two industries (the other one being Divorce - It is very easy to get a divorce there, just as to get married!). Though it gets tagged along with Las Vegas as a Sin City, Macau is not that sinful, but for the casinos in galore. The innumerous casinos in Macau do operate 24x7. They have all kinds of gambling, including games like baccarat, blackjack, roulette, boule, ‘big and small’, fan-tan and hundreds

of arrays of slot machines, which the locals very appropriately call ‘hungry tigers’. ‘Feeding the dragon’ is the local term for playing the slot machines. A fellow traveller of ours lost $4000 just like that in one sweep!

The history of Macau dates back to some six centuries. Macau was established as a trading post on the famous Silk Road, thanks to its strategic location at the mouth of the Pearl River. Fishermen were the first settlers and true to the spirit of the commerce happening there,

it was known as ‘Ou Mun’ (‘trading gate’), then. When the Portuguese settlers came down in the early 1550’s, the locals were calling the place ‘A Ma Gao’ which meant ‘place of A Ma’. A Ma was the Goddess of Seafarers. ‘A Ma Gao’ over time has become Amagao, Amacao and finally Macau. One can notice the curious similarity the words have to Hindi. ‘Ma Gao’ in Hindi means ‘Mother’s place’, or by extension, ‘Goddess’ place’!

Macau is having the seventh largest hotel property in the world. Venetian Macao, where we stayed, has 3,000 rooms. This Chinese hotel is similar to the one in Las Vegas and the space is so vast that it can hold over 80 jumbo jets.

Macau and Hong Kong, though part of China, are rather independent countries by themselves. They have their own currencies (Macau has Pataca – ‘Pataca’ is Portuguese for ‘Peso’, while Hong Kong has Dollar). Each requires its own independent visa (though it is free on arrival). The People’s Republic of China calls Macau and Hong Kong, as Special Administrative Region (SAR) and it operates on the

principle of ‘one country, two systems’.

Macau to proper China is just about 30 minutes journey by bus. Again, there is another immigration and visa process, if one wants to enter the dragon land. Zhu Hai is the first city in China you enter, just as you exit from the immigration complex. Zhu Hai is a beautiful city, well laid-out, neat and clean. It is located at the estuary of the Pearl River, where the river flows into the South China Sea bordering Hong Kong, by sea and Macau, by land. Very fittingly, the Chinese city is named Zhu Hai, because in Chinese ‘zhu’ means ‘pearl’ and ‘hai’ means ‘sea’. The city shines like a beautiful pearl in the South China Sea! The Chinese call this city the most


Romanic City, which one will concur with upon seeing its breathtaking panoramic landscape. There is a long Lovers Avenue on the beach and it testifies to the name romantic city. Zhu Hai, with its 146 charming islands, is officially announced as one of

the top 40 attractions in the entire China.

The birthplace of Sun Yat-sen (1866-1925), the Chinese statesman who organised the Kuomintang and led the revolution that overthrew the Manchu dynasty in 1911-1912 and established the modern China, is very close to Zhu Hai, just about 35 kilometres away. The place is called Zhongshan, after the original name of Sun Yat-sen,

Sun Zhongshan. The name in Chinese means ‘Fragrant Mountain’, another living proof of the Chinese sense of aesthetics of yore!

The highlights of Zhu Hai city are hot springs. The Ocean Hot Springs are a treat

to one’s eyes and body. A hot spring is a spring that is produced by the emergence of geo-thermally heated groundwater from the earth’s crust and by definition it is 70º F or above. The water in the hot spring is arranged to flow in such a graded fashion that the step-down pools have varying temperatures – from hot to warm to tepid!

When my colleague and I sat down for a beer at the hotel in Zhu Hai, on the eve of our departure to India, we found two beers’ names listed in the menu - Tsingtao and Haizhu. While Tsingtao was priced 16 Yuan (Yuan is the basic monetary unit of China and in Chinese the word’s literal meaning is ‘round’, perhaps referring to the shape of the coin in the olden days), Haizhu was listed as local beer and priced only half of it, i.e., eight Yuan. I was just wondering whether Tsingtao, which was very much brewed in China, (and the name says it all!) was a foreign stuff at all. While I pondered over that moot point peering at the label of Haizhu beer, something struck me - Haizhu is just the reverse swap of the city’s name Zhu Hai! Perhaps that was the ‘local’ touch!

COLUMN

The story of phoenix is something which everyone on earth is

familiar with. It is with great passion one reads/listens to the story of the phoenix, the bird of fire with shimmering feathers, which, after every 500 years, burns itself, when it begins to feel weak and old. Each time, the Phoenix rises up from the ashes, fresh and new, and young again. Phoenix has captured the hearts of generations and who else have not wished to see a phoenix, at least once in their lifetime? If you have Gujarat marked on your travel chart, you may not want to miss out Somnath temple in Saurashtra, which has a tale

to tell the phoenix lover in you. Somnath temple, situated near Veraval, on the shores of

Somnath Sea, is often referred to as the eternal shrine, as it has been destroyed six

times and rebuilt as many times. The rising Phoenix of reconstruction may find its most eloquent expression in Somnath Mahadev temple.

As per the legends, Somnath temple was originally built of gold, by the moon god Soma, to express his gratitude to Lord Shiva, who gave him respite from the curse of Daksha, a son of Brahma, because of which Soma lost his lustre. Daksha is said to have cursed Soma for loving only one of his 27 daughters, who were married to him and Soma built a Shivlinga at the Prabhas Tirth and prayed to Shiva, who in turn blessed him to wax for half the month. The word

Small WonderDotted with temples, sandy beaches and rivers, Somnath is a place where a strange peace will engulf you. And you feel a deep sense of contentment

Constructed in the ‘chalukya’ style of architecture, Somnath temple is a perfect illustration of the immense talent of the Sompura Salats, the master masons of Gujarat


GUJARAT TRAVELLER

Somnath means ‘protector of the moon god’ and one may wonder whether the legend holds any water.

The temple was then rebuilt of silver, by the sun god Ravi, of wood by Krishna and of stone, by Bhimdev. The existing one is the seventh shrine and the construction of this structure was taken up in 1947. The

great freedom fighter Sardar Vallabhai Patel has played a vital role in the renovation of the temple and you can find his sculpture, at its entrance. The current temple is built in traditional design and sports a symmetrical, sinuous structure. It features a 50

metres high tower that rises in clusters, which can be seen from far away. The temple duplicates its original and in keeping with the legend, the stone facade appears golden, at sunset.

Constructed in the ‘chalukya’ style of architecture, Somnath temple is a perfect illustration of the immense talent of the Sompura Salats, the master masons of Gujarat. The main deity of the temple is Shiva and it is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple consists of ‘shikhara’, ‘garbhagriha’, ‘sabhamandap’ and ‘nrtiyamandap’, and there is a ‘kalash’ (pot) on the top of the temple. What is unique about the temple is that there is no land on straight line between the temple and the Somnath seashore. You can find an arrow pillar called ‘baan-stambh’ on the sea protection wall, indicating that between the temple and the South Pole

there is no land area.It is very convenient for

travellers to combine their pilgrim travel with a leisure trip and vice versa, as the temple is situated on the shores of Somnath Sea. The fresh blue water, humming waves and the sandy beach

offer a captivating sight and a perfect setting for a relaxed holiday experience. Here, you can take a camel or a pony ride, if you wish, and enjoy a spectacular sunset, while relishing local made snacks and tender coconut that you can buy from the nearby stalls. Some distance away from the beach, there is an ancient dock and port. It is a place worth visiting, as it will offer you an opportunity to see how vessels are made of wood, by hand.

Just about four kilometres away, you have another attraction in Prabhas Patan. It is a place of pilgrimage, as it is where Lord Krishna is believed to have died, hit by an arrow in the foot. This place is also known as Bhalka Tirtha and there is a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is located near a tree, planted in memory of Lord Krishna. It has a sculpture of Lord Krishna in a reclining posture and its feet

are painted in pink. There is also a beautiful tribhangi idol of Krishna playing his flute. The Prabhas Patan Museum is situated in its close proximity and is an interesting place to visit. It houses remains of some renowned old temples, including stone sculptures, inscriptions and potteries that date back to several decades. Baldev Gufa is located nearby and it is the cave through which Lord Krishna’s elder brother Baldev disappeared

to the netherworld. From Prabhas Patan one

can easily reach Triveni Sangam, the holy confluence of three rivers - Hiran, Kapila and Saraswati - where one can take a holy dip. It is a sacred place for the Hindus and the large bathing wharf is called Dehotsarg. The facilities on offer are decent and meet the needs of the pilgrim travellers. Besides a huge memorial, there is a Geeta Mandir with eighteen marble pillars, each

It is very convenient for travellers to combine their pilgrim travel with a leisure trip and vice versa, as the temple is situated on the shores of Somnath Sea


GUJARAT TRAVELLER

of which features a chapter from Bhagavad Gita.

For pilgrims, Somnath still has plenty of options in it. Some of them include Sun temple, Shree Parshuram temple and Shree Shashibhushan Mahadev and Bhidbhanjan Ganapatiji temple. Said to have built in the 14th century, Sun temple, which has an imposing entrance porch, houses idols of sun god and his two attendants. As the name indicates, Shree Shashibhushan Mahadev and Bhidbhanjan Ganapatiji temple, located around four kilometres from the Somnath-Veraval highway, is dedicated to Shashibhushan and Ganesh. The Jara poacher is said to have taken aim from this spot, while shooting the arrow that hit on the foot of Lord Krishna. Shree

Parshuram temple is situated on the banks of holy Triveni, where Parshurama, sixth avatar of Vishnu, conducted long penance, to get rid of the curse of killing Kshatriya.

Before packing your bags to explore far away attractions, it will be worth

spending some time in Veraval, to catch a glimpse of different kinds of fishing trawlers, dhows engaged in fishing, boat building industry, seafood industry and to enjoy its picturesque dockyard and shorelines. You can also head to Mai

Puri Masjid, which is in fact the main gateway to Somnath from Veraval. It is an impressive piece of architecture, covered with blue and white tiles.

From Somnath, one can easily access Ahmedpur Mandvi and Chorwad beaches. While Ahmedpur Mandvi is a perfect beach for lazing on a hammock with a book, sea bath, dolphin sightings and adventure water sports, Chorwad beach is more suitable for relaxing and enjoying the ocean breeze.

Let you be a devotee visiting the shrines to offer your homage, or simply a lover or admirer of art and architecture, Somnath has in it attractions that will lure you for a visit back. This tourist spot is centrally located, with nearest airport at Keshod and railhead at Veraval.

It will be worth spending some time in Veraval, to catch a glimpse of different kinds of fishing trawlers, dhows engaged in fishing, boat building industry, seafood industry and to enjoy its picturesque dockyard and shorelines


GUJARAT TRAVELLER

The very name Tamil Nadu conjures up the images of ancient

temples, art, architecture, hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries and beaches. Seldom does one connect this southern state of India with a benthic world bursting with life. Earth’s ocean depths are often referred to as the planets’ last great unexplored frontier. The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever. No matter where you end up, the best part is that it allows you to see the world in an entirely new perspective. The serenity of floating in the deep blue depths can’t be compared to anything you have ever experienced. And, Tamil Nadu has in it the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, to offer you such a unique experience.

Strung along the stretches of the coasts of Ramanathapuram and Thoothukudi (Tuticorin), about 150 kilometres away from Madurai, are 21 separate pieces of land, surrounded by an ever changing cornucopia

of flora and fauna, that form an integral part of the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park. Spread over about 623 hectares, the park is a protected area and comprises 21 small islands, with estuaries, mudflats, beaches, forests and marine components like algal communities, sea grasses, coral reefs, salt marshes and mangroves. About 23 per cent of the 2,200 fin fish species in Indian waters are found in the Gulf, making it the most highly diverse fish habitat in India.

The area, described as the Pamban-to-Tuticorin barrier reef, was declared a national park in 1986 and later converted into a Biosphere Reserve in 1989. It is the core area of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve and includes a 10 kilometres buffer zone around the park. There are about 125 villages along the coastal parts of the biosphere reserve. The park is known for the diversity of plants and animals in its marine, intertidal and near shore habitats. The park is home to about 3600 plant and

animal species and here you can spot globally endangered species, including Sea Cow and six mangrove species endemic to peninsular India.

Its surrounding shallow waters harbour three species of seagrass that are found nowhere else in India. Representatives of every animal, but amphibians, are found on this island. A chain of low islands and reefs, known as Rama’s Bridge or Adam’s Bridge, separates the Gulf of Mannar from the Palk Strait, which lies to the north between India and Sri Lanka.

Deep in the blue

For all lovers of marine world, Dr S Bakthavatchalam gets the offerings at the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, Tamil Nadu’s one and the only marine park


TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

Tamiraparani River from the coast of India and the Aruvi Aru from the coast of Sri Lanka merge with the Indian Ocean, on both sides of the park.

All the 21 islands are 1-10 kilometres away from the coast of mainland and their extent varies from 0.25 to 130 hectares. The inhabitants are mainly Marakeyars, a

local community principally engaged in fishing. It appears that the coral reefs of this park are in good condition, despite high rates of sedimentation and other threats. Sea grass beds dominated by families like Hydrocharitaceae and Potamogetonaceae, and mangroves, including Rhizophora mucronata, Avicennia alba, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Ceriops tagal and Lumnitzera racemosa are also common in the stretch. Marine creatures such as dolphins, sea-horse, sea-cucumber and sea-anemone are also found in large numbers. Around 137 coral reef species form the basis of the ecosystem and here you can find five endangered marine turtles - Green turtle, Olive ridley turtle, Hawksbill turtle, Leatherback turtle and

Loggerhead turtle. Another attraction is peculiar animals like Balanoglosses, living fossil linking invertebrates and vertebrates.

The Gulf of Mannar is rich in sea grasses, which provide food sources for the sea mammals, particularly Dugong, its flagship marine mammal. The park is also an important habitat for

Cetaceans and hence Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, finless porpoise and spinner dolphin are a common sight.

Bird-watchers will surely love this place, as nearly 180 birds, including warders and sea birds, are found here. The islands form a good habitat and a stopover between Chilka Lake, Point Calimere and Sri Lanka, for migratory birds. While one can easily spot Lesser sand piper, Curlew sandpiper and Little stint, lucky few can take the sweet memories of watching rare birds like Red knot, Eastern knot, Crab plovers, Bar tailed Godwit, Broad billed sandpiper, Dunlin, Long toed stint and Red necked phalarope. Besides, thousands of larger flamingos winter here, before returning towards Rann of Kutch.


TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

Bird-watchers will surely love this place, as nearly 180 birds, including warders and sea birds, are found here. The islands form a good habitat and a stopover between Chilka Lake, Point Calimere and Sri Lanka, for migratory birds

The circuits route Abin K I takes a close look at the role of tourism circuits, in offering a holistic travelling experience to the travellers

Kerala is both a global tourist destination and a known brand

name, across the globe. This southern state of India is one of the trend setters in tourism business as well as a true role model for others, thanks to its continuous and consistent innovation in tourism products and services. This lush green tropical state, wedged in-between the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats, is truly an ideal destination for developing all forms of tourism, be it based on nature, culture and heritage. Tourism was declared as an industry in Kerala in mid

1986 and in 1995 the state saw the introduction of tourism policy. Thenceforth, this booming industry has played a vital role in the economic growth of Kerala. Having developed its destinations into tourist hot spots, it is time that the state focused its attention on creating tourism circuits.

Travelling to a single destination is an old concept and is fading out, fast. Tourists, nowadays, prefer to visit all the attractions in and around a main destination and plan the itinerary, in a way to facilitate the same. As a result, the concept of tourism circuits has gained ground, universally. Tourism

circuit is one of the best ways to tap the full tourism potential and offer something new to the travellers, who revisit a destination. At the IATO annual convention, industry experts have called for more well designed, well developed and well marketed tourism circuits that can be offered as a complete package to the travellers.

Travel/tourism circuits have a major role to play in the growth, development and promotion of tourism, in a state like Kerala. A tourism circuit is a chain or a network of destinations scattered in and around, or far, with rich and diverse tourism

potential. A travel/tourism circuit consists of three or more destinations and provides diverse or similar forms of tourist attractions. Once a new tourism circuit is developed, a number of other developments take place in and around it, which in turn will lead to increased jobs, regional development and more business opportunities. North Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are the pioneers of the concept of tourism circuits, in India.

Tourism circuits can be established on the basis of different criteria. It can be developed within a state


GUEST COLUMN


(intra–state) or a district, or between two states (inter-state) or two districts within a state. Inter–state circuits could be based on various themes or on effective transport connectivity. It connects destinations situated in two states and the Coutrallam–Palaruvi–Thenmala–Konni circuit is a perfect example for inter–state tourism circuit. These types of circuits will greatly benefit the states, as it is an effective tool to draw more tourist arrivals. Take the case of Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep. These destinations can be promoted with the adjoining mainland states. To reach Lakshadweep one has to pass through Kerala. This is the era of value addition and circuits like these will offer a holistic experience to the visitors. Realising the need of the hour, Tamil Nadu has introduced rail and road tours that also include the states of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Intra–state tourism circuit has its focus on destinations situated within a particular state and it is a great way to develop tourist spots located in a region. The Kovalam–Varkala–Alleppey–Kumarakom–Cochin circuit is an example for intra-state tourism circuit. Then, there are district level tourism circuits, in which all the destinations are situated in a district. Kerala has a district level tourism circuit in the Fort Cochin–Mattancherry–

Cherai circuit. It is also possible to

develop a tourism circuit based on certain themes, such as backwater tourism, beach tourism, eco-tourism, heritage tourism, wildlife tourism, river tourism, island tourism, waterfall tourism, dam tourism, adventure tourism, rural village tourism, urban tourism and hill tourism, etc. Circuits can also be created by combining destinations that are known for diverse features and attractions. Take the case of Munnar–Thekkady– Kumarakom–Alleppey–Cochin circuit. This circuit offers tourists an opportunity to experience city life, Chinese fishing nets, tea plantations, mist clad hills, trekking, wildlife, backwaters, canals, houseboat cruise, beaches, etc., at a go.

The key drivers of tourism circuits are attractiveness, accessibility, connectivity and better infrastructure. The ongoing Nila Heritage Tourism Circuit and Malabar Tourism Circuit, if properly implemented, will surely boost the growth of the tourism industry in Kerala. Once such circuits are in place, effective marketing and promotional activities should be taken up to place them on the world tourist map. Kerala has been working on tourism circuits, since tourism was declared as an industry. Yet, most of the newer circuits are in the proposal stage.

Often, states sign Memorandum of

Understanding (MOU) to facilitate circuit tourism and the entire effort die a natural death, as a particular decision maker moves out. The Mowgli trail is one of the classic examples of a failed attempt. Announced in 2003, Mowgli trail was conceived to connect forests in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, on the lines of Jungle Book. A few years ago Uttar Pradesh tourism had announced a number of circuits, including Sufi circuit, Mahabharat circuit, Ganga circuit, Hastshilp circuit and Wildlife circuit, but

how many of them have been activated is left to be seen. Buddhist circuit holds a lot of potential in India but the country is yet to develop the same. It is a stark example of how complete mismanagement and shoddy infrastructure development can kill a perfectly sound product.

However, there are certain success stories, as well. Gujarat has developed the Kutch and Junagadh regions, while West Bengal has identified circuits in the North Bengal region, covering Dooars and

GUEST COLUMN

places like Lava and Lolegaon etc., along with other circuits covering the temple town of Bishnupur, Bankura, Tarapith and Shantiniketan and historical circuits covering Plassey and Murshidabad. Kerala too has a number of small and big circuits.

The private sector has a crucial role to play in building

tourism circuits and they can join hands with the state tourism boards as product suppliers, as most of the circuits are implemented and promoted by tour operators. Increased synergies and concerted efforts among the tour operators, travel agents, hoteliers, state tourism boards and ministry of tourism will

help to fruitfully implement and promote new sustainable tourism circuits. There are private tour operators in the state, who have taken the initiative to design special interest itineraries, covering various destinations in one trip. While some use beaches as the focal point, others turn to adventure and wildlife

tourism, yoga and meditation packages, rural tourism, forts and palaces packages, desert circuit tours, etc., to design special interest trips. There are a number of tourism circuits that are promoted with the help of private participation and the Char Dham Pilgrimage Circuit (Uttarakhand) is one such.


GUEST COLUMN

For those packing their bags to Dubai, a veritable shopper’s

paradise, to live the moments of famed Dubai Shopping festival, JetEscapes, an exclusive holiday product from India’s premier airline Jet Airways, has unveiled exciting holiday packages. Travellers can choose between two attractive holiday packages – Free and Easy, and Extravaganza - both spread over four days and three nights. The packages will be on offer from January 5, 2012, to February 5, 2012.

“The Dubai Shopping Festival continues to remain arguably the

world’s premier shopping festival, with a dazzling array of products on offer, catering to every price point. Through JetEscapes packages to Dubai, we aim to make travel and shopping experience for our guests joyful and pleasurable.

We are confident that our packages to Dubai will prove to be extremely popular with travellers,” smiles, Sudheer Raghavan, Chief

Commercial Officer, Jet Airways.

While both packages include return Jet Airways economy air fare (inclusive of all taxes), Visa, airport transfers, three-star hotel accommodation with breakfast, city tour and travel insurance, the Extravaganza package also includes, in addition, a jet boat ride, a dhow cruise with dinner and desert safari with barbeque dinner.

Explore Dubai during DSF, with Jet Airways

Sudheer Raghavan, Chief Commercial

Officer, Jet Airways

The German carrier Lufthansa has won the Fast Travel Award

from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), for its innovative, flexible solutions to simplify and speed up the passenger experience. Lufthansa Group Chairman and CEO Christoph Franz received the coveted Gold Award from IATA Director General Tony Tyler. The main aim of the fast travel initiative is to make the passenger’s transition through the airport as smooth as possible and to reduce waiting times.

Lufthansa wins IATA award


AVIATION

Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate

of Oman, has commenced its services between Muscat and Zurich, very recently. Oman Air offers four flights a week between the two destinations and Zurich is its 41st worldwide destination and sixth in Europe.

The new service will offer travellers an opportunity to experience Oman Air’s luxurious new fleet of Airbus A330 wide body aircraft, which feature the world’s best business class seat and the world’s first complete on-board connectivity service that

allows passengers to make phone calls, send SMSs, check emails and surf the internet. Customers can enjoy unbeatable space and comfort in every class. For business and first class travellers, there are extra-long, fully lie-flat seats, with direct aisle access.

Oman Air flies to Zurich

As the London readies to host 2012 Olympics, Qatar Airways has unveiled its

plans to introduce a fifth daily flight between Doha and London Heathrow, from the start of the Northern Summer schedules on March 25, next year.

The new addition will take Qatar Airways’ capacity on this highly popular route to 35 flights a week, from 28 a week, now. The carrier’s flagship Boeing 777 long-haul aircraft will be deployed for the new service, with a capacity of 42 seats in business class and 217 seats in the economy class.

Flight times have been scheduled to offer more convenient connections across its route network in Asia Pacific. Flight QR075 is scheduled to depart Doha at 0635 every day

and arrive at London Heathrow at 1200 hrs, local time. The return flight QR076 will take off from London Heathrow at 1600 hrs and arrive at Doha at 0050 hrs, local time, the following day.

“Our move to introduce fifth flight reflects the growing importance of London, to the airline’s international operations and it will help us to meet the demand for the Olympics taking place in the British capital, next summer,” says, Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways.

Qatar Airways to introduce fifth flight to London


AVIATION

Globus, the world’s largest travel company, has

launched MyGlobus, a new online feature that will, for the first time, allow travellers to fully customise their vacations, before they travel. All that one needs to do is to go online to select and pre-book optional excursions and activities, for one’s vacation. One can also depend on a travel agent, to book the trip.

“Indians are distinct in their travel preferences, particularly when they are touring to destinations like Europe or North and South America. Travellers, today, are seeking package tours to these regions, insisting on an element of personalisation. Some like museums, while others want to spend on unique cultural evenings or wine tasting,” says Gauri Jayaram, Regional Director

– South Asia and Middle East, Globus family of brands, throwing light on the rationale behind the launch of MyGlobus. “This level of personalisation that puts the choice at the travellers’ fingertips is not available through any other tour operator in India,” she adds.

The company has also introduced 15 brand

Globus allows travellers to personalise vacation

new itineraries for 2012, incorporating new selection to Italy, Greece and Turkey. Travellers choosing Greece and Turkey will be able to combine their land vacation with Mediterranean cruises, while those visiting Holland, Luxembourg and Belgium will have the golden opportunity to take part in the spectacular once-a-decade Floriade World

Horticultural Exhibition. The company has also unveiled packages to Jordan.

For 2012, Globus is offering not just amplitude of vacations and the unique ability to personalise experiences, but also a series of standing deals and discounts, including savings on early bookings, second tours, group tours and concessions for repeat travellers and young travellers.

“At Globus, we value our travellers’ time, money,

their interests in bringing destinations and cultures to life through site exploration and hassle free experiences. So, in addition to providing unparalleled value on our tours, we are making it simple for travellers to save valuable money, every day of the year, with a selection of savings options,” smiles, Jayaram.


MARKETING

The New7Wonders Foundation has selected Jeju Island, the largest

island in South Korea, as a ‘New7Wonders of Nature.’ Though Jeju is just one of the seven provisional winners that were announced by the New7Wonders Foundation this month, after the first count of the global vote, it is hopeful of becoming an official New7Wonders of Nature, after the final results

are out in early 2012. Jeju is known for its attractions such as Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, Manjanggul Cave, Mt. Hallasan National Park and Jeongbang Falls.

Jeju is the world’s first and only place to be awarded a triple crown in the natural science field by UNESCO, as a Biosphere Reserve in 2002, a World Natural Heritage in 2007 and a Global Geo park in 2010. Jeju Island, 130

kilometres from the southern coast of Korea, is the largest island and the smallest province of Korea. Jeju special governing province is a premier tourist destination in Korea and is famous for its scenic beaches, waterfalls,

cliffs and caves. Jeju Island is also an appeal

to the MICE market, thanks to world-class facilities and comprehensive meeting services. It was ranked as the ninth most popular meeting destination in Asia.

Jeju Island selected as a New7Wonders of nature


EVENTS

In an attempt to showcase the vast richness of Indian tourism and the variety

it has to offer to the world, Indian Travel Mart (ITM) will be held at Sharjah, UAE from February 29, 2012 to March 2, 2012. Organised by Giant Marketing Service FZC in association with the Indian Trade and Exhibition Centre m.e., the event is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of exhibitors and visitors from across the globe.

“Indian Travel Mart 2012 is tailor-made to unlock the business potential for the Indian tourism industry in UAE. The three day event will feature major Indian destinations catering to adventure sports, eco tourism, heritage spots, beaches, holiday retreats, spiritual sites, and health and wellness resorts, under one roof. It

will also showcase a diverse range of accommodation options, breathtaking tourism attractions and new airline routes, to different destinations in India,” say the organisers of the event.

ITM 2012 will feature an array of products from the Indian travel and tourism industry and therefore the event is expected to act as the right platform to meet and interact with international clients, to acquire new markets, service existing markets, or acquire market intelligence for your products and services.

The exhibitor profile for the ITM 2012 include tourism boards in India, state tourism offices, tour operators, travel agents, trade/services industry related to travel and tours, hospitality sector, airlines, etc.

Sharjah to host ITM 2012

It’s cake mixing time at Vivanta by Taj

To welcome the tourism season in a grand manner, Vivanta by Taj – Kovalam, one of the finest seaside resorts in Kerala, has organised cake mixing function,

recently. G Biju Krishnan, Editor and Publisher of Asian Traveller was the Chief Guest at the function and he was joined by the Hotel’s GM Mathew Thomas, Chef Sonu Koithara, Sales Manager Sarath Sasi and Indu Thampi, former Miss Kerala. Lens view of fun filled moments…

1. WhatisKodokanInstituteinTokyofamousfor?

2. WhichbeachcityinUSAisknown

as‘27MilesofScenicBeauty’?

3. If‘SiliconValley’isCalifornia,

whatis‘SiliconPlateau’?

51

Compiled by Deekay

Send in your answers to [email protected] TYKC 51 in the the subject line.

Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month.

Answers to TYKC 50

1. English cricketer Bernard Bosanquet (reason why googly at times is called ‘Bosey’). 2. Sea of Azov, Russia (maximum depth 46 ft). 3. Naypyidaw. 4. A facetious term for a mini laptop. 5. Headquarters of Apple Inc. 6. Lava of Lava-Kusa. Lavapur became Lahore. 7. Frozen Yogurt (all the Android versions are given desserts names). 8. Las Vegas (seven of the TOP TEN are here). 9. Post-It adhesive notes. 10. Theoretically 100 kms as famously described by the Karman Line

WINNER OF TYKC 50

Rajeev ThomasKaduvinal

Parakkod PO.Adoor, Kerala

One all-correct entry will getFree Stay at UDS, Kovalam

[ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]*

* Conditions apply

Vikas Chadha has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer of Berggruen Hotels Pvt Ltd

Bijoy Mathew has joined Back Water Ripples Kumarakom as F&B Manager

With its sleek and stylish design, Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel is nothing less than a golden feather in the cap of Kovalam beach. Located just 15 metres from the sea, this four star hotel can well be categorised into a destination in itself. Its philosophy of combining the best elements of incomparable lifestyle, with the convenience of today’s modern world through exceptional standards of luxury, elegance and services, is well reflected in its products and services and has put the Uday Samudra Beach Hotel, popularly known as UDS, at the top position, in Kovalam. What is more noteworthy about UDS Kovalam is the international flair it sports.

4. Whatistheonlyrockthatfloatsin

thewater?

5. Whatisa‘milkname’?

6. Whatwouldthecocktail‘pinacolada’mean

initsoriginalSpanish?

7. WhatisthemeaningoftheancientcitynameBabylon?

8. Whosewasthefirstvoicetoberecorded

onEdison’sinvention,thegramophone?

9. Whoinventedthemicrochip(integrated

circuit)?

10. WhatisthemottoofGuam?


VARIETY

January 2012Dubai Shopping Festival, UAE January 5 to February 5London Boat Show, ExCel UK 6-15Bikaner Camel Festival, Bikaner 8 - 9ASEAN Tourism Forum, Indonesia 8-15Hotel Investment Forum India (HIFI) 11-13International Kite Festival, Gujarat 9-12Kite Festival, Jaipur 14FITUR, Madrid, Spain 18-22Modhera Dance Festival, Gujarat 20-22IITE, Nagpur 20 -22IITM, Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium Kochi, India 27 - 29Nagaur Fair, Rajasthan, India 30 to Feb 2

February 2012Desert Festival, Jaisalmer, India 5 – 7EMITT, Istanbul, Turkey 9-12SATTE, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi 10-12Gujarat Travel Mart, Ahmedabad 13-15BIT, Milano, Italy 16 - 19FKCCI, Palace Ground, Bangalore 17 - 20Goa Carnival, Goa 18 - 21AIME, Melbourne, Australia 21 -22Nishagandhi Dance Festival, Thiruvananthapuram, India 21-28ITM, Sharjah, UAE 29 – March 2

MarCH 2012

ITB Berlin 7 -11Elephant Festival, Jaipur, Rajasthan 7IITE, Vijayawada 15 -17MITT, Russia Moscow 21-24Asia Pacific Business Outlook 2012, Los Angles 26 -27GIBTM, ADNEC, UAE 26 - 28


Incredible India


Incredible India

Documents

Asian Traveller December 2011