THE ESCALATING ARCOF INDIA’S CONVENTIONS

SWITZERLANDA Treasure Trove of Experiences

JULY 2019, PAGES 36 VOL. 2, ISSUE. 6

Editorial & Marketing Office: Versatile Media: 207, Satya Mansion, Commercial Complex, Ranjeet Nagar, New Delhi-110008Contact: 011 - 45530380/83 • varun@versatilemedia.inAll information in MiceInsiders is derived from sources we consider reliable. It is passed on to our readers without any responsibility on our part. Opinions/views expressed by third parties in abstract or interviews are not necessarily shared by us. Material appearing in the magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part(s) without prior permission. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or otherwise deal with all advertisements without explanation. All advertisements must comply with the Indian Advertisement Code. The publisher will not be liable for any loss caused by any delay in publication, error or failure of advertisement to appear.Owned and published by: Varun Malhotra, Editor & Publisher, EB-63, Maya Enclave, Hari Nagar, New Delhi - 110064 and printed on his behalf at Acme Tradex India Pvt. Ltd. ( Unit : Printing press) B - 70, Sector - 80, Noida - 201305

Dear Readers,

In our July issue of MICEInsiders, we go deep into the serious business of trade and exhibition. We have labeled it has the ‘Convention Special’ issue as we comprehend how the vast segment of conference and exhibition is dwelling here in India. As we keep handpicking certain developed and emerging destinations, in India and abroad, we keep shifting our focus on its progress as a MICE destination. For this month, we did the same with the capital city of Tamil Nadu, Chennai. With the rapid technological boom across the state where the distance between A to B isn’t measured in kilometers but in hours, Chennai has the potential to be one of the best ‘MICE’ destinations in the near future.

Moving ahead, we go straight to the dream town of Switzerland that was recently named ‘the best country in the world’ for the third year in a row because of factors and that’s not the Bollywood. But we believe there are plenty of other (more surprising) reasons why the

country is so great. Here are just a few of them in our July’s issue’s ‘Overseas’ section.

Coming back to our soil, we move straight up to the Northeast of the country. Considered as the pride of the Brahmaputra River Valley, with a spur down to the hilly southeast, Assam is the largest and most accessible of the Northeast states. Well known for its national parks abounding several species, it welcomes visitors with a subtly flavoured cuisine and a hospitable population with a vibrant artistic heritage.

Other than this, we bring to you the latest and on-going news from across the segments of the industry including the names that join the travel and tourism clan.

I thank you all again for your kind support. We value your feedback and suggestions so please do write to us at varun@versatilemedia.in.

Happy Reading!

P u b l i s h e r ’ s N o t e

PUBLISHER & CEO

Varun Malhotra

varun@versatilemedia.in

DIRECTOR

Pranav Khullar

pranav@versatilemedia.in

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Gagneet Kaur

ASST. EDITOR

Sayanti Halder

REPORTER

Kritika Dua

REPORTER & MARKETING ANALYST Lokesh Tuli

BUSINESS HEADShilpi Sharma

AGM SALES & MARKETING (MUMBAI) Aarti Rajkhewa

BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP MANAGERNitika Bisht

CONSULTANT

Anindya Malhotra, Jitin Mann

DESIGNERShivnath

ACCOUNTS Saroj Thakur

ADMIN HEAD

R Prem Lata

EXECUTIVE-CIRCULATION

Hari Puri, Raja Rari

4 JULY 2019

IN CONVERSATION

14 URGING THE GOVERNMENT TO RECOGNISE ‘MEET IN INDIA’ INITIATIVEITPO LOOKS FORWARD TO EXPANDING ITS PORTFOLIO BY TAPPING KERALA

LC Goyal, Chairman and Managing Director, India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) shares how the priority should be shifted to enhance the branding of India as an exhibition hub instead of just making money out of the existing projects

6 ........................................................................................................................ Inbound12 ...........................................................................................................................Trade20 ..................................................................................................................Outbound28 ............................................................................................................... Hospitality 32 ..................................................................................................................... Aviation34 .........................................................................................................Appointments

HOMEWARD30 ASSAMNATURE’S ULTIMATE SCHEME FOR SPLENDOR

REGULAR NEWS

CONTENTPage No. 16Spotlight

OFFERING A BALANCE BETWEEN INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS AND QUINTESSENTIAL NATIVE EXPERIENCES

Gradually coming under the spotlight as the city that means actual business, this “cultural capital of India” is now becoming highly specialised and preferred option for the corporates. Talking about the changing façade of the city and factors leading to this ongoing revolution, we gather some of the key inputs from the observers of the southern market who further underscore why Chennai is a seamless blend of corporate indulgence and efficient networking solutions, meanwhile being a heady cocktail of truly desi and truly global experiences

OVERSEAS22 SWITZERLANDA TREASURE TROVE OF EXPERIENCES

6 JULY 2019

News

INBOUNDProgress of projects in North Eastern Region

MoT sanctions development of coastal tourism circuits in Tamil Nadu

Govt. allocated INR 1100 cr for amenities at 125 protected monuments

Ministry organises multi-country roadshow to attract Buddhist tourists

Budget 2019: Marginal increase in outlay for culture and tourism ministries

The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) has sanctioned the project ‘Development of Chennai- Mamamallapuram – Rameshwaram – Manpadu – Kanyakumari’ In Tamil Nadu under Coastal Circuit theme of Swadesh Darshan Scheme in the year 2016-17 for INR 99.92 cr. The components sanctioned under the project include SEL show, last mile connectivity, Information signages, Illumination, sea-view seating plazas, CCTV surveillance equipment, rescue boats, walking tracks, among other basic tourist amenities such as first aid kiosks,

drinking water kiosks, public conveniences etc. Prahlad Singh Patel, Minister of State (I/C) of Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Tourism, mentioned in a statement to Rajya Sabha recently.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has taken up the work for providing / upgrading public amenities at about 125 protected monuments including forts. Government has allocated INR 1,12,076 funds and expenditure incurred is INR 1,11, 708 for conservation, preservation and environmental development of monuments including historical forts during the last three years.

The Ministry of Tourism undertakes various promotional activities on an ongoing basis in the international markets including those with a Buddhist population. Some of the important promotional initiatives taken in this regard are mainly to showcase and promote the Buddhist Heritage in India and to boost tourism to the Buddhist sites in the country, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, organises an International Buddhist Conclave, biennially.

Participants in the conclave include eminent Buddhist scholars, opinion makers, tour operators and media personalities from overseas. The Ministry of Tourism has organised roadshows in Yangon (Myanmar), Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Phnom Penh (Cambodia) and Bangkok (Thailand) for promotion of India’s Buddhist Heritage. The Ministry of Tourism has produced a short film on Buddhist sites in the country which has been promoted through the digital and electronic media.

Major projects taken up in the North-East Region inter alia include Comprehensive Telecom Development Project for the North-Eastern Region, Comprehensive Scheme for strengthening of Transmission and Distribution Systems, North Eastern Region Power System Improvement Project, Special Accelerated Road Development Programme for North East, Bharatmala Pariyojana, Projects under Swadesh Darshan Scheme for Integrated Development of Tourist Circuits and PRASAD Scheme for tourism infrastructure, National Sports University at Imphal, Greenfield Airports and upgradation of airport infrastructure at airports including Guwahati, Imphal and Agartala, Greenfield airport at Pakyong and Hollongi, Agartala-Akhaura Rail-Link to connect the existing Agartala station in Tripura to Akhaura Station of Bangladesh Railways, development of Brahmaputra and 19 new waterways including Barak.

The Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2019 to 2020 in Parliament on July 5, 2019. The finance minister said the government will take measures to ensure that the rich tribal culture of the country is preserved. The outlay for tourism and culture ministries saw marginal increase of 1.82 per cent and seven per cent respectively in the Union Budget 2019 to 2020. INR 1,378.53 crore has been allocated for building tourism infrastructure, while INR 575.50 cr. has been allocated for promotion and publicity. For the culture ministry, an allocation of INR 875.33 cr. has been made for central schemes

and projects.With a focus on developing infrastructure, Sitharaman said that 17 ‘iconic sites’ will be transformed into world-class destinations to give a boost to the tourism sector. “The government is developing 17 iconic tourism sites into world-class tourist destinations and to serve as a

model for other tourism sites. The iconic tourism sites would enhance visitor experience which would lead to increased visits of both domestic and international tourists at these destinations,” she said in her maiden budget speech.While the funds for the tourism ministry was INR 2,150 cr. in the 2018 to 2019 Budget, it rose to INR 2,189.22 cr. in 2019 to 2020. The allocation for the culture ministry, which was INR 2,843.32 cr. in 2018 to 2019, increased to INR 3,042.35 cr. for 2019 to 2020. The finance minister said the govt. will take measures to ensure that the rich tribal culture of the country is preserved.

Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC)Exhibition Ground, RIICO Industrial Area, Sitapura,Sanganer, Jaipur - 302 022 Rajasthan, India

Email: sales@jecc.inCall: 9587884120

JAIPUR EXHIBITION & CONVENTION CENTRE

A Top-notch Venue for Corporate Events

World Class Venue OptionsExhibition Hall:2 pillar-less halls of 1,00,000 sq. ft. eachCeiling height of 52 ft.

Convention Centre & Ballroom1 Ballroom of 12,000 sq. ft with a VIP lounge and 2 green rooms

PPre-function AreaPre-function Area of 9,000 sq. ft

Multiple Breakaway13 Venues split across two levels for smallconferences

Sprawling Lawn35,000 Sq. ft outdoor lawn

World class venue to accommodate over 30,000

people.

Air conditioned halls o ering cluster & theatre

seating for over 8,000 people.

Ballroom with retractable seating with

auditorium/cluster options.

PParking space of over 2500 vehicles.

15 minutes away from Jaipur International Airport.

2,000 room inventory available within 8 km radius.

Why choose us?

EXHIBITIONS

CONFERENCES

CORPORATE MEETINGS SEMINARS

SPORTS EVENTS

PRODUCT LAUNCHES

TRADE SHOWS

DAY CONFERENCES

AWARD CEREMONIES

8 JULY 2019

TRADE

MICEInsiders speaks to the representatives of the top convention centres in India asking about the much-needed requirement of introducing class-apart standard venues in order to witness equilibrium in global bidding. Also, we discuss the way ahead for these convention centres, gearing up for the remaining 2019

THE ESCALATING ARC OF INDIA’S CONVENTIONS

By Sayanti Halder

MICE venues making all the difference in resilient business

Special Focus

Special Focus

Within a span of just four years, JECC has been able to establish its identity on a national level by hosting some of the biggest exhibitions and conventions from various sectors of the economy. Owing to the progressive growth that JECC is currently witnessing in terms of its growth and return on investment, Vyas reveals that the JECC has fastened its seatbelts for a mounting business in order to conclude 2019 with more profits and repute. “The past quarter had begun with a sturdy April. However, May and June were extremely slow in terms of business, primarily due to elections as all activities by corporates and diverse associations were at a halt for the results for a new government and policies. Going forward, we are looking at several corporate, government agencies, doctors’ conferences and associations in the remaining half of 2019 to enhance business potential and revenues,” he adds.

Speaking about the overall growth of the exhibition and convention industry that in return is fueling the facilities like JECC, to name one, Vyas explains that the government is providing utmost support for drawing more of international events in India. “The government has been actively trying to assist the MICE industry to draw both business and leisure travellers, helping the industry grow. It is working on providing incentives to the MICE sector, where revenues have been crimped following policy changes like with the introduction of the Goods and Service Tax (GST).” He further advises that besides relaxing visa norms and conducting MICE promotions, the tourism ministry should also focus on the study of the size of the market and revenue generation potential through MICE activities.

On the contrary, Vyas opines that it is crucialto follow global standards in order to make and operate world-class exhibition and convention centres. “Government of India and respective state governments have their corresponding guidelines and standards that one needs to adhere to whilst building and operating exhibition cum convention centres.” Currently, as per the released statistics,

there are 745 exhibitions using almost 7.3 million sq. m of space whilst there are subsidies by the government to get international exhibitions to the country. However, this is not enough as they are very minuscule in nature. “The government is gradually recognising the potential of the exhibition industry in propagating trade and also showcasing government policies in different sectors to the masses. There is a further need to streamline and also create strong policies to enable India to get more international exhibitions to India,” he emphasises.

Spread across a 42-acre plot, Vyas informs that JECC is one of the largest pillars-less exhibition-convention-entertainment facilities of its kind in all of South Asia, attributing to which, the standard and

expectations from this facility is always on the higher notes. Like most exhibition centres, JECC is also a member of various professional organisations, nationally and internationally, that helps in bidding for exhibitions and conventions. Apart from that, JECC has a strong online presence on various

platforms, as a strong as its sales network to bid for exhibition/convention business.

JECC AIMS TO ENHANCE BUSINESS POTENTIAL AND REVENUESInsists the government focus on revenue generation’s potential through MICE eventsIn an exclusive conversation with Aashish Vyas, General Manager of Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC)

JULY 2019 9

10 JULY 2019

2019 for India Expo Centre & Mart began with a big bang with the commencement of metro rail services right at the venue’s doorstep and the grounding of Jewar International Airport. The state-of-art convention centre – India Expo Centre & Mart hosted some of the mega events in the first half of the year and was the prime partner venue for MICE industry’s flagship event, IEIA Open Seminar in June 2019 where over 28 countries’ representation was made with over 400 delegates from convention industry. Followed by this, Sarcar boasts how the remaining half of 2019 is equally engaging and occupied for India Expo Centre & Mart.

“We are enthusiastic to host numerous big events such as the second edition of India Expo Centre & Mart’s own event India International Hospitality Expo 2019 (IHE) and first edition of World Assembly of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy 2019 (WAAYN); The fourteenth session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP 14)- where 5,000 delegates from nearly 197 countries to take part; Delhi Machine Tools Expo 2019; 12th edition of Renewable Energy India Expo (REI); Electronica & Productonica 2019 with concurrent event SmartCards Expo 2019; 16th Congress of the Asian Society of Transplantation ;48th edition of IHGF-Delhi Fair Autumn 2019; 3rd RE-INVEST 2019; 21st edition of LED EXPO 2019 and 13th Edition of CPhI & P-MEC.” Additionally, the facility has got an additional impetus to its business owing to the temporary closure of the centrally-located Pragati Maidan. “We have established the trust of all big event organisers and triumphantly hosted some of the mega events such as SATTE, PETROTECH, CEIF, LABEL Expo, LED Expo, and REI,” he further adds.

Observing the on-going traffic of shows and business, Sarcar informs that India Expo Centre & Mart is giving utmost importance to its modern amenities and conveniences in order to raise its status, further in the market. “Technology is the

key focus for today’s success and sustainability for both the MICE industry and India Expo Centre & Mart keenly follows it. Recently, we have installed two GBPS internet facility for WiFi & LAN in HA mode with latest security appliance implemented, centralised our WiFi/ PA Systems/ Tele/ Fax/ CCTV/ IBMS in the entire area of the facility and implemented full HD video streaming for a live demo and live telecast. There are in-house touch screen kiosks available for client for digital branding, an event

navigation system, information counter and online feedback form.”

Discussing his views on how the convention centres in India can fastrack the process of attracting more international events, he states that offering adequate space, connectivity, excellent services and modernisation/

digitalisation; sustainability and profits are considered significant factors for foreign event organisers. Indian convention centres

must achieve and adapt accreditations to demonstrate their commitment to reduce environmental impact and being profitable

can be helpful. “It is equally important that we focus and follow established environment/

global sustainability standards. I am of the view that all venues should work towards the

UN sustainable development goal. It is not important to simply call a venue as

a green venue and get a green certificate, it is important to have the sustainability goal in place with clearly defined carbon emissions and efforts made towards achieving this established goal,” says Sarcar and adds, “The government support

is required in order to smoothen the process

for organising permission, visa, and more. The district

administration should come forward to promote the destination and encourage event

organisers.”

INDIA EXPO ACCELERATES ON A GROWING SPREEUpgrades the facility’s digital facets and facilitiesIn a one-on-one conversation with Sudeep Sarcar, Chief Executive Officer of India Expo Centre & Mart

Special Focus

Am

eric

a

LLC1230 Jasmine Drive, Madison. WI. 53719,USA.

Call Us: Tel: + 1 (608) 692 - 7750Email: contact@one-above.com

With the presence of our office in USAregistered by the name ONE ABOVE LLC. we are one of the leading & niche DMC for Incoming tourism to USA.

Our USP are the numerous satisfied clients,who has gone back with the fondest of memories of their USA trip.

Be it FIT, Leisure or MICE Group, we take pride in keeping the highest standards of deliverance and the same can be vouched by our many trusted travel partners.

Countries we cater in America includes USA, South America & Canada.

Aslam Director aslam.usa@one-above.com Novalis Rodricks Manager - Operations novalis.usa@one-above.com Vahid Sales & Marketing - N.America ops.usa@one-above.com Konjita Rodricks Asst. Manager - Operations konjita.usa@one-above.com Amit Sanghare Operations Executive ops.usa1@one-above.com

WE ARE 100 PERCENT B2B DMC

YOUR MOST TRUSTED DMC

12 JULY 2019

News

PATA announces new Executive Board 2019/20

TCEB holds roadshows in tier II Indian cities

India Convention Promotion Bureau (ICPB) recently announced that the association’s flagship event the 12th Conventions India Conclave will be held from August 29 to 31, 2019 at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty. The theme of the conclave is ‘Mapping the sustainable MICE future of India’ and the focus area will be India aiming to be the top ten meeting destinations in the world by 2023. The two day event will include sessions and panel discussions on various topics such as “Can India spearhead this 2 X growth in just four years” - A Hard talk with Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India and Secretary Tourism,

Govt. of Kerala. The conclave will provide the perfect forum of opinions, views and standpoints on India’s meeting and convention Industry.

Along with this, ICPB successfully organised an interactive MICE Seminar to deliberate on how Goa can be promoted as a MICE destination. Madhu Dubey, Executive Director ICPB presented the role bureaus can play in repositioning Goa as a MICE destination. The highlight of the day’s discussion was the panel discussion “Marketing Hotels – Key Segment for MICE in Goa”. It was quite an interesting deliberation with panelists from various MICE segments,

Incentives, Exhibitions and Convention & Meeting, discussing about the power of Incentive, challenges for holding large conferences, meeting design. The panel was represented by Amaresh Tiwari, Sanjay Soni and Amit Saroj from ICPB and also Gaurav Apte from Marriott Goa. The outcome of the deliberation was the strategies

of attracting business event which is totally different from that of Leisure Market. The sessions were moderated by Chander Mansharamani, Vice Chairman – ICPB. After getting a good response from Goa, ICPB now plans to have similar Interactive Day programs in various cities to promote MICE across the country.

Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) is making headways into the India market, especially in the secondary cities namely Hyderabad, Jayapura, Kolkata and Lucknow, via a series of targeted MICE roadshows. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of TCEB, shared that his organisation has high hopes for the Indian MICE market, which has the second largest number of MICE travellers after China.

So far, two roadshows were held in March and April respectively. The first was in Hyderabad and Jayapura, both cities with very well established MICE travel agents. According to TCEB, MICE travellers from these cities are also not foreign to holding meetings in Thailand. The second roadshow was held in Kolkata and Lucknow. While smaller cities in comparison, TCEB is confident in the MICE travel agents there and the opportunities they bring. According to the TCEB President, establishing and maintaining connections

with agents in secondary cities at such an early stage will help to form long-term business relationships in the future. Overall, it is expected that the events will bring a total of 63 meetings and incentive events from India to Thailand, attracting more than 13,000 MICE travellers. potential revenue, too, is expected to be around THB one billion (USD 32 million).

ICPB to hold its 12th Conventions India Conclave in AugustTRADE

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) announced the ratification of the PATA Executive Board 2019/2020. Dr. Chris Bottrill, Dean of Fine and Applied Arts, and Director, International at Capilano University in North Vancouver, Canada and Sarah Mathews, Head of Destination Marketing APAC – TripAdvisor, Hong Kong SAR have been formally approved to continue for an additional one-year term as Chairman and Immediate Past Chairperson, respectively.

During the PATA Annual Summit 2019 in Cebu, Philippines, PATA also elected five new members to its Executive Board including Soon-Hwa Wong, CEO – Asia Tourism Consulting Pte. Ltd., Singapore; Benjamin Liao, Chairman – Forte Hotel Group, Chinese Taipei; Jennifer Chun, Director, Tourism Research – Hawaii Tourism

Authority, USA; Vinoop Goel, Regional Director – Airports & External Relations, International Air Transportation Association (IATA), Singapore, and Henry Oh, Jr., Chairman – Global Tour Ltd., Korea (ROK). Soon-Hwa Wong was elected as the new Vice Chairman, while Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes remains Secretary/Treasurer.

On the election of the new Executive Board PATA CEO Mario Hardy said, “I look forward to working with our new Executive Board in supporting our members in creating a more responsible travel and tourism industry in the Asia Pacific region. Our Executive Board this year is truly an example of PATA’s diversity and expertise. I am especially proud to recognise that PATA has five women on its Executive Board and five representatives from the Pacific, who will

work alongside our other members representing the Americas, Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia and South Asia. I am confident that all of us together will continue to support the productive efforts of the global tourism industry and our core values at PATA.”

14 JULY 2019

To take the India exhibition industry to the next level, ITPO is looking forward to several initiatives apart from adding a face-lift to its much-famed Pragati Maidan. Syncing in tandem to this thought, Goyal shares that the idea is not to make money but promote India as a brand name for the trade market, globally. “I have requested the government with a proposal of launching a program called ‘Meet in India’ with an idea based on the patronisation of ‘Make in India’ scheme that would certainly enable the expo industry both on the Indian and international levels and supplement India’s brand value in the global market. This program should see the light of the day, sooner than later and ITPO would also be benefitted by this in terms of trade promotions.”

He further adds that Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA) organises an annual meet called ‘Open Seminar’ that ITPO hopes to restructure in its facility from next year as this association can act as the anchor for the ‘Meet in India’ scheme. “ITPO is a service provider and we have to provide quality, friendly services to the exhibitors and event organisers. If we don’t come out as a friendly unit, then our infrastructure won’t be used much. We will not just be a mere member of the association but also a major consultant for the authority and look into the issue that both the industry and the government face,” suggests Goyal and continues that this venue will set a trend along with our additional venues developing in Mumbai and Bengaluru. Also, to further regain the strength of the organisation’s portfolio and expand the brand value of India as an exhibition market, ITPO is now looking at Kerala for developing a facility in Kochi. Goyal reveals that he is trying to promote an ITPO venue in Kochi, which is expected to be developed in no time.

As per the recent figures and Goyal’s information, ITPO directly hosts about 15 to 16 events annually at Pragati Maidan and few other places across the country. “Apart from these and other flagship events such as IITF, AHAAR, Leather Show, India International

Security Expo, we also play the dual role of both providing the venue as well as organising the events in it, unlike the other facilities in India.” Other than these, ITPO has around 20 to 22 exclusive Indian events being hosted abroad and the organisation also participates in well-known events and expos on the foreign lands that have currently amounted to over 44 annual events, especially across North America. “With the emergence of the new complex, that is expected to compete with the best ones in the world, I expect more international exhibitions and events getting organised, thereafter. We would be fully-commissioned with this new complex by the end of next year,” boasts Goyal.

Speaking about the development of the Pragati Maidan, he says that with an additional thousand square metres of extra space along with its existing 3,75,000 sq. mt. area that is expected to be developed in the next two to three years. He mentioned that around INR 3,437 cr. has been invested for the project by ITPO, no specific budgetary been taken. “I can tell you without any hesitation that we are 100 per cent on schedule. And this entire money is ITPO’s own money. It is being monetised through Pragati Maidan’s revenue and its revenue from the events. Unless I reorient the attitude and approach of my staff as an interface with outside stakeholders, I will not be able to ensure the optimal use of my venue.”

He further states, “As a part of that, in May 2018, we created SPC – ‘Single Point Contact’ that is now a part of our business development region. Anybody interfacing with ITPO may not go to different divisions like finance, marketing, security, and more.; they only need to coordinate with the SPC. I have received very positive feedback for SPC. I have delegated full power to the Deputy General Manager with regards to the decisions to be made about SPC. Another initiative that we are taking is related to the numerous approvals and clearances that event organisers need from other acting agencies such as government bodies, DCP licence, traffic, entertainment, fire, electricals, which

makes around eight to nine such clearances that need to be procured. We are now in process of getting a General Premises License so that all the exhibition and convention organisers at Pragati Maidan do not need to obtain separate clearances barring Fire and Security.”

For 2019-20, Goyal predicts a fall in revenue generation but expects that 2020-21 will be a good year for revenue generation. As of March of 2018, ITPO had a surplus of INR 1600 cr. and out of that, the body has only utilised INR 1200 cr. as Goyal informs and exclaims that no industry has a better multiplying effect like that of the exhibition industry. The industry needs to recognise the potential of the MICE and trade promotion’s potentials in India. Many more world-class venues are required to boost this segment of the business. “The time has come for this industry to respond to the initiatives taken by both the government and private bodies,” emphasises Goyal. As the future of the exhibition industry lies mainly in Asia and India, to be specific, he seems confident that a big opportunity is waiting for India’s trade and exhibition industry.

URGING THE GOVERNMENT TO RECOGNISE ‘MEET IN INDIA’ INITIATIVEITPO looks forward to expanding its portfolio by tapping Kerala

By Sayanti Halder

The premier trade promotion arm of the government, India Trade Promotion Organisation has been successfully promoting trade domestically and overseas for over 45 years now together with promoting exports. In an exclusive conversation with MICEInsiders, LC Goyal, Chairman and Managing Director, ITPO shares how the priority should be shifted to enhance the branding of India as an exhibition hub instead of just making money out of the existing projects

In Conversation

16 JULY 2019

Spotlight

Chennai, being a profusion of wonders, both modern and ancient, offers endless varieties of choices for corporate groups. Fast becoming a business hub to reckon with, Chennai today is under process of transforming itself from mere a stopover city of Tamil Nadu into a swanky choice for business travellers and is now joining the list of Indian cities that are preferred as MICE destinations globally. Thanks to the growing influx of business travellers, increase in connectivity, introduction of state-of-the-art convention centers, the hoteliers and travel agents are now rolling up sleeves for further lending credibility

towards face-lifting the MICE scene in the city. Gradually coming under the spotlight as the city that means actual business, this “cultural capital of India” is now becoming highly specialised and preferred option for the corporates. Talking about the changing façade of the city and factors leading to this ongoing revolution, we feature some of the key inputs from the observers of the southern market who further underscore why Chennai is a seamless blend of corporate indulgence and efficient networking solutions, meanwhile being a heady cocktail of truly desi and truly global experiences.

Gone are those days when business meetings with customers were confined to just four walls of our office with the LCD projector fixed in front of you to make presentations. Corporate companies have become creative to hold meetings in exotic destinations, combining leisure and business in order to promote creativity and thereby generate fresh and innovative ideas for business.

In Southern India, undoubtedly Chennai is gearing up to be one of the ideal MICE destinations for both domestic and international companies. The world-class hotel brands such as ITC Grand Chola, The Leela Palace and more are offering now plenty of luxurious options for corporate customers. With spacious banquets and conference rooms, they have state-of-the-art conferencing facilities. Theme dinners can be organised with ease with world class cuisine and local Indian food.

Apart from these hotel chains who are capable of hosting hundreds of visitors at ease, Chennai’s Metro Rail project is doing wonders in making Chennai more appealing for corporate travellers. Once this project is 100 per cent completed, traffic that hampers the time-sensitive works in Chennai will no longer be a night mare for event organisers.

Chennai does provide endless varieties of choices for corporate groups who visit the city as part of meetings / conference. Regardless of the objective of their trip, these travellers also aim at making the most of the trip wherein pre and post conference tours come handy for them. Mahabalipuram being the closest beach destination and with excellent spread of high profile hotels with sufficient number of inventories, they do suffice the requirement of MICE tourists and are always high in demand.

K. PandianDirector, Cholan Tours Pvt. Ltd.

By Team MI

OFFERING A BALANCE BETWEEN INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS AND QUINTESSENTIAL NATIVE EXPERIENCES

CHENNAI

“Chennai has undoubtedly evolved eventually as a MICE destination”

JULY 2019 17

Spotlight

New hotels beckon the business class. With one lakh sq. ft. of convention area, 30,000 sq. ft. of pillar-less halls, 17 five-star hotels, 2,595 rooms and additional 1,550 rooms, Chennai is climbing the charts as an ideal MICE destination. The city has 15 properties to choose from, with the Chennai Convention Centre known far and wide.

The major advantages of Chennai as a MICE major tourism hotspot are its strong IT, healthcare, automobile, heavy engineering ecosystem, excellent connectivity and robust MICE infrastructure. The city is gearing up to be one of the preferred MICE destinations for both domestic companies and beyond. One of the main objectives of MICE travellers is to exchange ideas in an environment that’s conducive and comfortable. If a company wants a premium destination to host its annual meeting, it need not look any further than Chennai.

Sasikumar UVice President, Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram

Chennai has, over the years, metamorphosed into a highly valued and preferred MICE destination. The city is the considered a choice for reputed trade fairs, congress, medical conventions and exhibitions, courtesy the incredible facilities at the Chennai Trade Center, where most of these events are conducted. As the acknowledged hub of the automobile, pharma, IT and ITES industries and that of medical tourism, Chennai has burgeoned into a viable business and MICE destination. The city has in recent years, hosted a significant number of hi-decibel domestic and international conferences and the list is growing. Today, Chennai figures are evident on the global map as a MICE destination which leads to its economic growth.

The city being the preferred choice among corporate travellers can be attributed to these factors: supportive government policy and regulations, world-class infrastructure for meetings, accommodation and entertainment, excellent connectivity between worldwide destinations, authentic positive tourism credentials, reliable service sector support, recognised mature industry in the hinterland and its safe, secure identity as a destination.

Some of the prestigious MICE events that have been held in the hotel include World Business Council for sustainable development, International Nuts and Dried Fruit Congress, India Live and FSM Conference.

Kuldeep BharteeArea Manager South, ITC Hotels & General Manager ITC Grand Chola

“Chennai figures are evident on the global map as a MICE destination”

“The city is gearing up to be one of the preferred MICE destinations for both domestic companies and beyond”

18 JULY 2019

Spotlight

Few years back only during winters, Chennai was considered for limited conventions. One used to be a major medical event in December and another one Leather Fair in first week of February. Now the situation has changed, with addition of convention spaces as throughout the year, events are happening in Chennai. With a strong presence of reputed and multi-specialty hospitals, most of the medical conventions are hosted in Chennai, according to my observation, one event is happening in every two months ranging from 500 to 5000 attendees. We saw growth of international travellers in 2018 mainly visiting to attend the events. International connectivity and world-class infrastructure are the key contributors to this growth. Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet organised by the state government in 2017 and 2019 helped to gain more visibility for Chennai among other countries. Tamil Nadu Travel Mart in association with Tamil Nadu Tourism Department promoting Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu by

participating in and promoting all international travel events. Availability of space within city limit is a major advantage for Chennai and this must be one of the main reasons behind being the host for DefExpo India Show that was held in 2018.

Chennai is charming in its way as one of the most preferred destinations in South India. This can be attributed to factors such as the recent development in infrastructure, increase in branded inventory and direct flight connectivity from key cities. It is one of the most bustling commercial districts in the country coupled with an array of entertainment and leisure activities being the reason behind the destination’s popularity.

The city is well-equipped to absorb large conventions to destination weddings, conferences and off-sites comfortably. In Chennai, Accor has the single largest international branded room inventory with 1200 rooms. Strategically located with proximity to business hubs and leisure spots, offering state-of-the-art meeting and conferencing facilities, our properties address to MICE catering, both onsite and offsite.

Suresh AntonyGeneral Manager, The Raintree, Anna Salai

Rohan SableGeneral Manager Delegate, Novotel ibis Chennai OMR and Novotel Chennai Sipcot

“Chennai is well-equipped to absorb large conventions to destination weddings, conferences and off-sites comfortably”

“Availability of space within city limit is a major advantage for Chennai”

Relax

At the foothills of Himalayas and just by the Ganges, this beautifully located property has been designed to make people happy, which we believe is the biggest faith or religion (Dharam) of a man

kind. Luxuriously designed to be the world’s first 7 Star Dharamshala or as we like to call it-”A Happy Home”

Address: MODI YOGA RETREAT - 238, VIRBHADRA ROAD,

RISHIKESH, UTTARAKHAND 249201Tel : +91-7303552333, Email : contactus@modiretreat.com

Modi Yoga Retreat, Rishikesh

For Bookings visit - https://modiretreat.com/

Beauty lies in a healthy mind

Rewind Rejuvenate

final.indd 1 4/17/2019 6:05:20 PM

20 JULY 2019

AIM Group International main partner for the Lions Clubs World Convention Milan 2019

Russian Convention Bureau holds General Members Meeting

VisitEngland launches online b2b platform

Discover Puerto Rico reports highest tourism revenue visitor numbers in the island’s history

AIM Group International, a leading company in congresses, events and communication, is a main partner of the 102° Lions Club International World Convention to be held in Milan from July 5 to 9 2019. More than 25,000 participants and 150 territorial delegations are expected in Milan. This mega convention will be hosted at MiCo Milano Convention Center and will involve numerous social, charity and flagship events that will take place across the whole city for several days. On Saturday 6th July,

a spectacular International Parade of Nations will wind through the city centre and will be attended by more than 10.000 delegates from 125 nations, wearing their traditional costumes and holding their flags and Club banners.

The joint effort of a successful bid team comprised of Fiera Milano Congressi, the Municipality of Milan, Lions Club Italy and AIM Group International secured Milan as the venue for this year’s event. It was a great success since it is the fourth time that the annual world

convention came to Europe in the long history of the international association, and the first time to an Italian city. The Lions Club estimates that this convention will greatly benefit the travel, hospitality and conference economy, generating an estimated €60 million in revenue for the destination.

“We are really proud of the part we played in bringing this mega event to Milan” declares Gianluca Scavo, CEO AIM Group International. “Lions Club has a long-standing history in Italy and this event will

involve the entire city with the magnificent Parade, extensive charitable & service projects and many social events held every day. The event will have a lasting impact on the memory of the Milanese citizens”.

To date, AIM Group has supported the smooth organisation of this complex mega event and as experts of the destination developed a personalised program, offering delegates memorable experiences in special locations with a truly local taste.

TThe General Meeting of members of the Russian Convention Bureau was held on June 27, 2019. The meeting discussed the results of the RCB’s work and a number of important organisational issues. The meeting became an important event because it took place at the venue of the new Congress Hall of Yekaterinburg-EXPO International Exhibition Center (Yekaterinburg, EXPO-Boulevard and it became the first event to be held at the new venue. This fact is even more remarkable given that the first guests of the new venue at the Russian Convention Bureau event were the leading representatives of the Russian event industry who could appreciate the grand scale and potential of the new convention and exhibition venue.

Alexey Kalachev, Director, Russian Convention Bureau, said, “The new venue must become one of the flagships of the Russian event industry, intended for business events at the highest level. I am sure that the upcoming major event: the Second Global Manufacturing and Industrialization Summit will allow to demonstrate the increasing event potential of Sverdlovsk Region on the Russian and international markets.”

VisitEngland has launched a business-to-business digital platform that enables tourism suppliers to connect to multiple international distributors. Tourism Exchange Great Britain (TXGB) is a one-stop shop for English tourism suppliers including accommodation providers, visitor attractions and experiences, to link to distributors with international reach and sell their products overseas.

VisitEngland Commercial Director Carol

Dray said, “TXGB will drive bookings for the hundreds of thousands of tourism businesses in England by making it easier for them to access new markets and ultimately more customers. England’s tourism product will be on show internationally to global distributors and their customers, promoting the latest tourism products, services and experiences, driving bookings and inbound tourism across the country, boosting regional economies.”

Discover Puerto Rico, the Island’s first-ever Destination Marketing Organisation celebrates its one-year anniversary, announcing that tourism is the strongest it’s ever been, as the destination tracks towards a record-breaking year. Year-to-date revenue is the highest in history, with USD 445M reported through May. The Island has received 1.67M visitors across the San Juan, Ponce and Aguadilla airports in the first few months of this year, the highest number of airport arrivals in the January-April timeframe in the Island’s history.

“Despite the World Travel & Tourism Council estimating a recovery between 2021-2022 and New Orleans taking eight years to get back to the days before hurricane Katrina struck, we set an aggressive goal to fast-track the visitor economy at a record pace, for the benefit of local communities,” said Brad Dean, CEO, Discover Puerto Rico. Since its inception last July, Discover Puerto Rico quickly embarked on a mission to reposition Puerto Rico’s brand, fully capitalising on the Island’s rich tourism product to thrive as a leading Caribbean destination.

News

OUTBOUND

News

JULY 2019 21

OUTBOUND

ICCA announces Tirol as destination for 2020 Association Meetings Programme

MICE-in-the-Bag brings European corporate and independent buyers to Borgo La Chiaracia

European Cities Marketing, the association for Tourist Boards, Convention Bureaux and City Marketing Organisations in Europe and Simpleview, the worldwide leading provider of CRM, CMS, website design, digital marketing, revenue generation, and mobile technologies for DMMOs, has just signed a two-year industry partnership agreement.

Partnering with Simpleview strengthens ECM’s need and constant wish to provide its members with more education and feedback from key industry players on opportunities to be more productive with effective solutions, focusing on key issues like the

importance of building visitor-centric websites, making the case for content strategy, or the shift to data driven marketing.

About this new partnership, Petra Stušek, ECM President said, “It is important that ECM continues to develop industry partnerships that will help our members in their daily work life. Simpleview is a worldwide leader in its field and I am pretty certain that many ECM members will be interested in Simpleview’s products and services that help make them savvier and more efficient at their job.”

Partnering with European Cities Marketing reinforces Simpleview’s

desire to tap into and integrate best practices from a very diverse family of DMMOs across Europe. The partnership not only expounds on an already meaningful relationship with ECM, but also strengthens Simpleview’s footprint at must-attend industry events. It also

fortifies the collaboration between the two entities on ECM Event Impact Calculator. Simpleview has long championed the Calculator powered by Destinations International, a tool that’s integrated within Simpleview’s Destination Management System (DMS).

The International Congress and Convention Association announced during the Closing Ceremony of the fourth edition of the ICCA Association Meetings Programme, which was held in Durban, South Africa from June 18 to 20, 2019, that the 2020 edition of the event will be held in the Tirol region of Austria. The destination of Tirol and cities of Innsbruck and Alpbach will

act as joint hosts.A globally-renowned ICCA flagship event, the

AMP is designed to bring ICCA Members and Association Executives from all over the world together for open exchange through small-scale networking and interactive knowledge transfer about bidding, designing, organising and promoting international association meetings.

Borgo La Chiaracia, a five-star resort nestled in the Umbrian countryside of Castel Giorgio (Italy), was the destination for M.I.C.E.-in-the-bag’s FAM trip. It brought budget-ready MICE buyers and also wedding planners. Attendees came from the UK, Germany, Poland, Italy and the Netherlands. The FAM trip took place from June 12 to 14, at the beginning of a shiny summer delivering its best in such amazing surroundings. Borgo La Chiaracia, located at the border with Lazio and Tuscany, has been designed as a modern escape, a little world

apart where the essence of tradition combines with an innovative approach.The property comprises three inter-connected buildings. Its 23 rooms and

three suites are characterised by a refined elegance, in which the furnishings have been carefully selected to reflect the shapes and colours of the local countryside, thus creating a seamless link between the internal and the external spaces of the resort. This, far from being a detail, is the actual source of the magic of the place.

Most of all, there’s probably the most updated cutting-edge technology for meetings of any Italian housing facility: the latest generation in video-conferencing systems, wireless and wired fibre optic networks and broadband connections with a capacity of up to 100 Mbps. A private, protected storage space on the Borgo La Chiaracia Cloud is always available. Participants from remote can work together with Borgo’s guests in real time with the aid of video-conferencing and collaborative tools, viewing and saving both graphics and presentations to mobile devices connected to the wireless network of the meeting room. The buyers highly appreciated all this, some of them even asking to extend the stay through the whole of the weekend at their own expenses.

European Cities Marketing (ECM) partners with Simpleview

22 JULY 2019

Overseas

Think Switzerland and you are bound to picture cheese and you can not only savour it here but also learn about the process. This country offers much more; Switzerland surprises its visitors with a plethora

of sights, scenery and activities. There’s something for everyone from outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, cultural tourists and culinary addicts. Discover a range of experiences, which you won’t

want to missBy Kritika Dua

Rhine Falls Boatride It is Europe’s largest waterfall and experiencing the mighty power and vibration of the water while boating is difficult to describe in mere words. It can only be felt as you get closer to the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen via a boat ride. While you are here, don’t miss the stunning sights of the castles of Wörth and Laufen, the Rhine Falls Basin and the mighty rock in the midst of the waterfall. Sit on the viewing platform with your near and dear ones and enjoy the hypnotic charm of the gushing water. The new visitors’ centre, a children’s playground and the Historama, an interactive exhibition about the Rhine Falls, are few of the other attractions.

Hop on the Bernina Express This scenic Bernina Express connects the north of Europe to its south, right through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Rhaetian Railway, passing by awe-inspiring glaciers on its way down to the striking palm trees. Crossing the Alps in this train certainly makes for a spectacular experience. In totality, the train passes through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges on its way from Chur to Tirano. The travellers onboard are treated to splendid sights during this unique journey, such as the Montebello curve with a view of the Bernina massif, the Morteratsch glacier, the three lakes Lej Pitschen, Lej Nair and Lago Bianco, the Alp Grüm and the Brusio Circular Viaduct. During summer months the travellers can book the open panorama coaches on the Bernina Express between Davos Platz and Tirano. Bringing you even more closer to nature is the glass-free Cabrio coaches and it also lets you click ‘insta-worthy’ photos of the astounding scenery!

SWITZERLANDA Treasure Trove of Experiences

JULY 2019 23

Fun-filled Toboggan Ride from Mt. Eggli to GstaadEnjoy a toboggan ride from Mt. Eggli to Gstaad and accompanying you will be the incredible view that includes the Sanetsch and Spitzhorn. First, take an impressive yet tranquil cable car ride from the car-free chalet village of Gstaad to the Eggli mountain station. The adventurous downhill toboggan run begins a few metres behind the cosy mountain restaurant with pleasing panoramic views from the sun terrace. This toboggan run will let the travellers pass through secluded forests and the picturesque Gstaad mountains. From the top, you can gaze at the side valleys as far as Turbach, Lauenen and Gsteig.

Skydiving in InterlakenSwitzerland is indeed one of the best destinations for sky diving experiences as you can enjoy the bird’s-eye view of the snow-capped Alps, unspoiled lakes and lush valleys. Relish an adrenaline-fuelled jump from the height of 14,000 feet above the land while you skydive in Interlaken. This resort town located in central Switzerland has plenty to offer you once you come down after this exhilarating adventurous experience.

Overseas

MUST-DO!• Go green with E-Grand Tour of Switzerland• Hike to a surreal mountain glacier• Learn the art of crafting chocolates• Visit a museum of your interest• Go to a carnival• Build an igloo you can sleep in • Try skiing

Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2019 concludes on a high note

Thailand Travel Mart Plus or TTM+ 2019 is Thailand’s leading B2B travel show which was held from June 5 to 7, 2019 at the Ocean Marina, in Pattaya. The theme was ‘New Shades of Emerging Destinations’ as part of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) strategy to promote 55 provincial destinations. It is an incredible gateway to the biggest travel business to business opportunity and it will focus on luxury and romance products and services. During this three-day event new buyers from new markets had the opportunity to match with sellers from emerging new Thai destinations and learn about new travel products. The objective is to create jobs and distribute revenue countrywide, from major cities to local communities, while creating sustainability by balancing the number of visitors to the destinations.Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said, “As this is an era of constant change, especially for travel trade shows, we decided it was time to change the entire concept of the TTM+ in order to ensure that everyone gets value for time and money. Thanks to the feedback from all the sectors,The event was held for the second consecutive year in Pattaya to emphasise its new image as a tourist destination for families and luxury travellers with a broad diversity of tourism products and services. TAT invited 338 buyers from 51 countries. In addition to top markets, such as China (64), the UK (25), and India (23), the invitees included carefully-selected buyers from emerging source markets, such as Argentina, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Egypt, Estonia, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lebanon, Turkey and Ukraine.The number of exhibitors totalled 370, of whom 89 were first-timers to the TTM+. By category, the exhibitors included Hotels and Resorts (277), Emerging Destinations (20), Associations (9), Entertainment Businesses (12), Tour Operators/Travel Agents (23), private companies from the GMS countries (10), National Tourism Organisations from the GMS (10) and other travel services (9).The revamped innovative and creative content and business format of the TTM+ 2019 has proven to be a resounding success, as indicated by the post-event survey responses from buyers, sellers and participants. The 18th TTM+ was highlighted by the participation of new buyers and media from new source markets, new exhibitors from Thailand’s new emerging destinations, a line-up of all-Thai speakers at the knowledge-sharing platform, new tours linking the Eastern Corridor of Thailand to neighbouring Cambodia, a product showcase for community-based enterprises, and total dedication to environmental preservation.

News

TRADE

24 JULY 2019

JULY 2019 25

Guest Column

Hiring an event management company for your next MICE conference could end up saving you several days of stress! MICE tourism is nothing but business tourism. MICE tourism presents ultimate opportunities for business development, whether it’s an informal conversation with old partners, meetings with prospective investors, introduction to new technologies or information exchange.

An agency, like ours, acts as a consultant in suggesting, guiding and finalising the various components involved in organising a successful event and also takes ownership for smooth execution of each of these components. Any event has various major as well as minor components. The major components may include destination suggestions, hotel selection, banquet facilities, travel itinerary, ground transfers, venue setup, to name a few, while other components may include but not be limited to team building activities, delegate kits, identity cards, take away gifts, internet connectivity, special transfers, special food requirements, and more.

The major components can be thought off and worked out in advance but a well-coordinated effort at the time of execution and the smooth functioning of planned and unplanned activities at the venue

during the event is what makes a difference in the experience of the attendees. Strength of an agency lies in the fact how smoothly are the last-minute changes managed without making a huge commercial impact. These can be related to cancellations or no shows, changes in travel plans and managing services of important guests.

Moreover, food can be another tricky area, which, at times, might require special attention and can play a decisive role in ensuring the success of an event. This might need a detailed working on the various menus, spreads and venues being used. A smoothly executed event is remembered by the guests for long and gets accolades for the organisation while ensuring brand visibility and recall value. In addition to this, a good event management company offers one-stop shopping for all types of transportation, from shuttles and airport transfers to special event and VIP transportation.

The changing trend in organising events is the use of digital technology in various aspects of operations for better information flow. Mobile apps are being used extensively for pushing information on a real-time basis. This has made the work easier for people managing groups and information can

now be shared with the audience at the click of a mouse. With an increased focus on health, people are becoming specific about their food requirements and what they eat. This brings more responsibility on the agency’s shoulders to ensure that food is served to keeping mind the specific needs of guests.

MICE are usually affiliated with large corporate agencies; they must hire an event management company in order to have their MICE tourism take place in the most standardised way. Organising conferences in a different city is not an easy task. There are many things that are too difficult to be managed by own. In such situations, event management companies play a great role. Kapil Arora, Managing Director of Wizard Meetings & Incentive Travel explicates further

The broader purpose of

assembling a conference

Report

26 JULY 2019

Italy’s conference tourism on the riseThe numbers are out and show that the country’s tourism sector is boomingThe Italian Survey of Conferences and Events (Osservatorio Italiano dei Congressi e degli Eventi-OICE), the study on the Italian conference and events tourism promoted by Federcongressi&eventi and conducted by the Graduate School of Economics and International Relations of Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore – ASERI, was presented in Rome recently. The number of events promoted by companies to strengthen their presence on the market continues to grow, while effective measures need to be developed for association conferences to see off international competition.

In 2018, Italy hosted 421,503 conferences and events for a total of 597,224 days, posting increases of 5.8 per cent and 6.7 per cent from 2017. The average duration, at 1.42 days, remains stable, while participant numbers were down slightly to 28,386,815 (-2.4 per cent), as was the overall attendance figure, to 42,319,349.

The slightly negative growth figure for these last two pieces of data was mainly due to the fall in conferences promoted by international associations, showing that Italy urgently needs to undertake substantial promotional activities to meet increasingly fierce competition from competitor destinations.

These are the key figures from the Italian Survey of Conferences and Events, the research project promoted by Italy’s meeting industry association Federcongressi&eventi, conducted by the Graduate School of Economics and International Relations of Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore and coordinated by Professor Roberto Nelli.

Now in its fifth year, the study continuously monitors the events and conferences organised in Italy, showing the size, characteristics and trends of a sector that not only generates economic activity.

Who stages events in Italy: companies continue to invest, incentives needed for associationsCompanies are the main promoters of events, registering steady growth year-on-year. Conventions, meetings, product launches and incentive events were confirmed as effective marketing, communication, brand-awareness building and lead/sales generation tools for companies, and accounted for 65.5 per cent of the events held in Italy in 2018, an increase of over 10 percentage points compared with 2015 (55.4 per cent). Associations were the second largest promoters, but their share of the total continues to fall. Last year, association events – mainly conferences – accounted for 22.8 per cent of the

total, versus 25.5 per cent in 2017, 31.6 per cent in 2016 and 34.8 per cent in 2015. The third group of promoters by number of events organised was organisations and institutions, whether government, political, union or social, which accounted for 11.7 per cent of events, a slight rise from 2017’s figure of 9.9 per cent.

The constant decline in the share of events organised by associations – albeit with marked differences between the regions shows the need for ad hoc institutional measures to boost Italy’s appeal as a conference destination. Given their duration and number of participants, conferences – particularly those promoted by international associations – are the most desirable events for destinations, as they offer benefits in terms of economic impact, media and social visibility and regional development.

“Internationalisation, planning and quality are the three elements Italy needs to compete and get out of the impasse we have observed in the associations markets”, commented President of Federcongressi & eventi Alessandra Albarelli.

“Internationalisation means strengthening Convention Bureau Italia’s role in promoting the country as a MICE destination, in partnership with national tourist board ENIT; planning consists of implementing, together with all the institutions, particularly the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policies and Tourism, long-term, targeted strategic activities for the sector; quality consists of providing operators with more effective training to seize the opportunities offered by the market. The association has always been committed to developing regional aggregations (convention bureaus) and will respond concretely to the need for solid and constantly updated marketing expertise, launching, from the autumn, an academy with two courses, dedicated to “venue managers” and “destination managers”. We will only be able to meet the challenges ahead if we know how to combine the individual and collective commitment of public and private stakeholders”.

Events have a local dimensionMost conferences and events (59.5 per cent) are local in dimension – that is with participants

(excluding speakers) mainly coming from the same region as the host venue. National events, i.e. those with participants mainly from outside the region, decreased, from 35.2 per cent in 2017 to 32.4 per cent, while international events (those with a significant number of participants coming from abroad) increased, from 7.9 per cent in 2017 to 8.1 per cent in 2018. The North is leader, but the South and the Islands continue to gain ground By geographical region, the North attracts the most conferences and events. Of the 421,503 events surveyed by the Italian Survey of Conferences and Events, more than half (57.7 per cent, a rise of 7.8 per cent on 2017) were held in northern regions. The figure comes as no surprise, since the North is the is the richest area in terms of event venues (52.6 per cent) and companies, the main promoters of events. Central Italy (with 25.3 per cent of venues) was the destination chosen for 24.6 per cent of events. Despite the number of venues, the South and the Islands continue to grow as an events destination, as a result of both the effective promotional activities conducted by convention bureaus and local public authorities, and investment in infrastructure and services. In 2018, the South and the Islands (with 13.7 per cent and 8.4 per cent of venues respectively) hosted 17.7 pc of events, an increase of 8.3 per cent.

SUBSCRIPTION FORM

For any subscription related enquiries, Please contact:Versatile Media

207, Satya Mansion, Commercial Complex, Ranjeet Nagar, New Delhi-110008Tel:. 011-45530380/83, Email: info@versatilemedia.in

Payment Option : DD/Netbanking/Cheque to be drawn in favour of Versatile Media

Bank Details for RTGS/ NEFT

Name of Account : Versatile Media

Vender PAN No. : AAKFV2122J

Name of Bank : Bank of Baroda (Subhash Nagar, New Delhi)

Bank Account No : 41550200000119

Branch IFSC Code : BARB0SUBDEL (Zero)

Branch MIRCR No. : 110012157

Branch SWIFT Code : BARBINBBKAR

Name Mr. Ms. ...............................................................................................................................................................

Designaton ...................................................................................................................................................................................

Company.......................................................................................................................................................................................

Delivery address.........................................................................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................................................................................................

City ..........................................................................Pin code ....................................................................................................

State ...........................................................................GST No. ...................................................................................................

Phone .............................................................................Email ....................................................................................................

SUBSCRIBE NOW!

No. of issues Cover price You pay

12 `1200 `1200

24 `2400 `2000

36 `3600 `3000

India’'s leading Travel Trade Publication

subcription_2019.indd 14 6/14/2019 2:20:10 PM

News

TRADE

28 JULY 2019

HOSPITALITY

Best Western opens first hotel in Chiang MaiBest Western Hotels & Resorts’ Asian expansion strategy has reached a new milestone as the group launches its first-ever hotel in Chiang Mai, the largest city in northern Thailand. Opening its doors in June, Best Western Prime Square Hotel, Chiang Mai is a brand new hotel that brings modern midscale comfort to the capital of Thailand’s ancient Lanna Kingdom. Perfectly positioned in the centre of Chiang Mai, the hotel is a five-minute drive from trendy Nimmanhaemin Road and just a short drive from Chiang Mai International Airport and the cultural attractions of the old walled city.

A boutique-style hotel, Best Western Prime Square Hotel features just 48 keys, with a choice of Superior Rooms (24 sq m) and Deluxe Rooms (36 sq m). Whichever option guests choose, they will enjoy comfortable bedding, contemporary décor, working desks, flat-screen TVs, mini-bars, tea and coffee making facilities and complimentary WiFi in all areas. Best Western Prime Square Hotel has been developed by Prime Square Co., Ltd, a leading Chiang Mai-based real estate company.

Millennials evolving wedding business from traditional to eclectic In the last few decades, the wedding industry has witnessed a rapid evolution. Owing to growing customer demand, a myriad of new ideas, careers, desires, destinations and possibilities have arisen. Millennial couples want their weddings to be customised uniquely for them. They demand extraordinary concepts and ideas from the wedding planners, to be executed in a way which is traditional yet modern in approach. It is a fast-evolving ecosystem and wedding planners must plan to be at the forefront of the changes that the wedding industry is undergoing every day. This will help them to tailor their approach to better plan the most celebrated occasion of a person’s life, as highlighted by Tamarind Global.

As elucidated by Kunal Rai, Vice President-Wedding and Events at Tamarind Global, “Millennials are

taking a much more active role in the decision-making, because of which the entire process and expectations from a wedding have changed quite a bit.” He explained how this change has affected the wedding planning process, “Over the years, we have tweaked our approach, business model and teams based on the changing landscape of the industry. Today, one of our biggest assets is our large in-house team, which very few other planners retain on an annual basis. In addition to it, the team is a perfect blend of experienced professionals along with young, passionate and dynamic individuals with the millennial gene. The wedding business is a complete people driven and we have invested in the best and most creative talent and take care to groom, mentor and train at each level. All this enables us to provide the best-in-class service and the utmost professionalism and expertise.”

Phuket Hotels Association launches “Business Meets Beach” campaign to drive MICE businessPhuket Hotels Association is inviting groups to stage their special occasions on the sun-kissed shores of Phuket, with a new collaborative campaign and an enticing promotion designed to drive more business events to Thailand’s largest island. Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the ‘Business Meets Beach’ initiative will see the association’s 70 member hotels join forces to promote Phuket as the premier destination for the MICE industry. Building on the island’s world-class facilities and spectacular natural scenery, the campaign will aim to show how Phuket’s captivating culture sets it apart from the competition.

“With its rare combination of stunning scenery and outstanding indoor and alfresco MICE venues, Phuket has everything that professional planners could wish for. But the island is more than simply a venue for meetings and events; it is a giant canvas on which guests can paint their own stories, themed on Phuket’s rich local culture and heritage. This is what makes our island truly special,” said Anthony Lark, President of the Phuket Hotels Association.

Whether guests are planning a large-scale corporate conference, a creative team-building retreat, an intimate incentive or any other kind of get-together, Phuket has a unique ability to inspire guests. Groups can also add locally-inspired experiences, such as cultural discoveries, shopping trips, CSR activities, sightseeing excursions and offshore adventures, to ensure that every event lives long in the memory.

JULY 2019 29

Rove At The Park opens doors in Dubai Parks and ResortsRove Hotels, a contemporary midscale hotel brand, has opened its sixth hotel in Dubai – Rove At The Park – in Dubai Parks and Resorts, the largest integrated theme park destination in the region. Rove At The Park has 579 comfortably-sized rooms and interconnecting family rooms, making it an ideal choice for families and groups. Guests at Dubai Parks and Resorts can access more than 100 fun and adrenaline-packed rides and attractions spread across MOTIONGATE Dubai, BOLLYWOOD PARK Dubai, LEGOLAND Dubai and LEGOLAND Water Park. This is in addition to free access to themed zones, street ambience and numerous shops and restaurants at Riverland Dubai.

On the opening of the new hotel, Paul Bridger, Corporate Director of Operations, Rove Hotels, said, “Guests love Rove Hotels for

their convenient locations, funky interiors, chilled ambience and great service, which have made the brand one of the most popular in the city. We are excited to open Rove At The Park, our sixth and largest property in Dubai. Dubai Parks and Resorts is a dynamic leisure destination with attractions that appeal to families, couples and theme-park enthusiasts from around the globe.”

Ahmed AlRayyes, Chief Retail and Hospitality Officer, DXB Entertainments, the company that owns Dubai Parks and Resorts said, “Opening a second hotel is part of Dubai Parks and Resorts’ strategy to have more than 1,300 keys at the destination by the second half of 2020. We look forward to welcoming even more tourists who will now be able to enjoy rides and attractions at the park, with the option of a conveniently located hotel in the vicinity.”

Centara launches new beachfront hotel in Sriracha

Meliá Hotels International to open Meliá Cartagena KarmairíMeliá Hotels International has announced its opening of the all-inclusive, adults-only Meliá Cartagena Karmairí. Located in the Manzanillo Del Mar – just 15 minutes from Cartagena De Indias and the second most travelled to destination in the Caribbean – Meliá Cartagena Karmairí offers guests the opportunity to explore the historic and colonial charm of the city while also boasting a magical beach retreat. The hotel is a destination of wellbeing and rests for guests seeking harmony between mind and body.

“We are excited to welcome guests to the new adults-only, all-inclusive Meliá Cartagena Karmairi,” said Victor Domnez, Operations

Senior Director for The Americas Region. “Designed as a retreat for wellness and relaxation, we wanted to accommodate today’s modern traveller, whether they’re looking to explore the urban landscape or the natural surroundings of the Caribbean coastline.”

Incorporating Meliá Cartagena Karmairi’s natural surroundings was a key element when designing the new adults-only property. Its restaurant, Merkado, is surrounded by water, a life-giving, integrated natural element aimed to create a fresh, cool sensation of wellbeing for diners. The property also features pedestrian paths and viewing areas to allow its natural surroundings to take centre stage.

News

HOSPITALITY

Centara Hotels & Resorts has added a new destination to its Thailand collection with the launch of a beautifully designed seafront hotel facing the Gulf of Thailand in Sriracha. The newly built Centara Sonrisa Residences & Suites Sriracha is the first Centara hotel in Sriracha. The beachfront location along the coast of Thailand’s eastern seaboard in Chonburi Province is 90 minutes by car from Bangkok. The striking design of Centara Sonrisa Residences & Suites Sriracha, with its cool whites and hues of blue throughout, evokes the waters of the Gulf of Thailand in Sriracha, once a traditional Thai fishing village that retains an old-world charm and a slower pace of daily life, making it perfect for a relaxing couples getaway and a fun family holiday destination as well.The 145 units offer an array of accommodation options, beginning with Superior, Deluxe and Deluxe Seaview guestrooms, which are ideal for two adults.

Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre Hotel opensThe Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) opens its doors, joining two other Waldorf Astoria properties in the UAE. The 275-room hotel is a welcome addition to Dubai’s bustling financial district, bringing a slice of the French Riviera with its stylish rooftop bar and pool, a piece of New York City with acclaimed restaurant Bull & Bear and a timeless design that evokes the elegance of the 1960s.

“We are delighted to expand our luxury presence in the region with the opening of Waldorf Astoria DIFC which is located in an important economic hub within the region,” said Rudi Jagersbacher, President, Middle East, Africa & Turkey, Hilton. “Earlier this year, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum approved the launch of DIFC 2.0, which will add 13 million square feet of space to the centre. We are pleased to be part of this rapidly growing district and look forward to delivering unparalleled experiences to guests staying in DIFC.”

30 JULY 2019

Homeward

ASSAMNature’s Ultimate Scheme for Splendor

Considered as one of the most prominent of the seven North eastern states of India and fittingly situated just below the eastern Himalayan foothills, Assam is a land of blue hills, green valleys and

red river. Apart from its verdant greenery and picturesque sceneries, it is home to some stunning national parks, temples, the mighty Brahmaputra and the one-horned Rhinoceros. MICEInsiders

walks around furthermore to foray into the ‘Land of Tea’By Sayanti Halder

Also known for its handloom industry, Assam is a land where the magicians reside. While every Assamese home has a weaving machine, the best of it can be witnessed in Sualkuchi, which a cencus town in the Kamrup District that produces the best quality silk in the state. Located only 35 km away from Guwahati, at Sulakuchi, the ‘Manchester of the East’, visitors will feel like they have stepped in a haven of silk fabrics if they are too fond of textiles and handloom offerings. This picturesque village offers authentic fabrics ranging from the golden Muga to the ivory white, ‘Pat’ and the light beige ‘Eri’ or ‘Endi’ silks. Purchasing the traditional Assamese ‘Mekhala’ as a souvenir would be ideal.

Cruising in the heart of the ever-flowing Brahmaputra River and witnessing the sunset hitting the horizon, at far, is certainly one of the best ‘must-do’ adventures to do in Assam. No traveller should afford to miss this no matter what the urge for adventure is for them as an individual. This thrilling and happy-hormone inducing journey offers beautiful views and moments that would fill all the hearts with ecstasy and excitement while leaving the visitors with a zillion memories to cherish for lifelong. Conclude the day with a vast spread of local cuisine, served to its guests on the deck of the boat that mingles with the surrounding fresh breeze, giving the right Assamese essence.

Witness the weaver’s magic

Spike bliss while cruising

TRADE

Homeward

The Bihu is the most famous festival of Assam, which is celebrated thrice in a year, with the major one being observed in April of every month, to welcome and appreciate the offerings of different seasons. If travellers are holidaying in this state during this time of the year, they must make sure to become a part of the festivities as it is one of the most cherish experience that one may have in Assam. From folk music to colorful attires, one would get to witness every element of joy and festivity, here. Other than this, the Dehing Patkai Festival (January), Ronker (annual) and Ambubachi Mela (June) are ‘must-experience’ fiestas of Assam.

Be a part of the festivities

Providing abode to the great Indian one-horned Rhinos and many other exotic species, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kaziranga National Park is a major attraction because of which, visiting it is one of the best things to do in Assam. The vast terrains of the park have lush greenery and gorgeous flora. Apart from the rhinos, visitors can also spot swamp deer, leopards, Hoolock Gibbons, to name a few. Kaziranga National park is also claimed to be the best place for tiger sighting in northeast India. Indisputable nature and wildlife enthusiasts may also visit the Manas National Park or the Nameri National Park for an intense wildlife spotting and safari.

Go wildlife spotting

32 JULY 2019

TRADE AVIATION

Flight delays, diversions continue at Mumbai airport

Etihad celebrates the launch of A380 services to Seoul

British Airways will add flights to its current schedule between Mumbai and Heathrow from March 2020. British Airways currently operates 49 flights a week from five cities in India, with a double daily from Mumbai and Delhi and a daily service from Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. In summer 2019, the airline added four additional flights to its existing schedule from Mumbai to London, increasing the weekly total from 14 to 18 flights a week. The airlines will further enhance its schedule to Mumbai in March 2020 by adding an additional service to London, offering customers three flights a day to choose from.

This increase will take British Airways’ weekly schedule from 49 to 56 flights from India to the UK. The daily flights will be operated by the state-of-the-art 787-9 aircraft offering a four-

cabin configuration including First, Club World, World Traveller Plus and World Traveller.

Moran Birger, Head of Sales Asia Pacific and the Middle East at British Airways, said: “As the financial capital of the country, Mumbai is a vibrant city full of discerning international travellers who are always on the lookout for great travel experiences and better travel options. With these additional flights, we will be offering a convenient choice of three flights a day from Mumbai to connect to our worldwide network of over 200 destinations. “We are committed to providing our customers with more choice, convenient travel options and unparalleled service and we look forward to welcoming travellers on our new flights.” We look forward to welcoming them on this new flight to London.”

The Union Cabinet recently approved the proposal of the aviation ministry to lease out three airport projects, currently operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), to Adani Enterprise.

“Cabinet approves the proposal for leasing out of three airports namely Ahmedabad, Lucknow and Mangaluru of Airports Authority of India through Public-Private Partnership,” government spokesperson announced it through a Twitter upload.

The report suggests that the transfer of

all six assets to Adani Enterprises will start after this. Employees at the airports, currently being run by AAI, will have the option of joining Adani Enterprises or staying with the state-owned organisation. These airports are part of the six airports, including Trivandrum, Guwahati and Jaipur – all the six airports were won by Adani Enterprise for a period of 50 years in a bid process that saw participation from GMR, NIIF, Cochin International Airport, AMP Capital, among others.

Etihad Airways recently celebrated the deployment of its first Airbus A380 ‘super jumbo’ on its scheduled daily services to Seoul, Korea. The occasion was marked in style with a spectacular ‘Abu Dhabi Night’ evening reception at The Shilla, Seoul’s most iconic landmark hotel, with the venue hosting a unique opportunity to showcase the two cultures, Korean and Emirati, coming together. The event was attended by leading figures from the local government, diplomats, media, corporate partners, and the travel trade.

To highlight the cosmopolitan nature of Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates and to promote cultural fusion between Emirati and Korean people, the evening featured a series of performances by Arabic and Korean artists, and also offered a tapestry of cuisines fusing the cultures together through taste.

Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport continued to report flight delays and diversions, owing to prevailing weather conditions and the main runway being unavailable for the third day in a row. Operations at the main runway of the city airport have been shut for a long time after a SpiceJet aircraft skidded and a part of the runway was blocked. A Mumbai International Airport Ltd. spokesperson said efforts were on to retrieve the disabled aircraft at the earliest.

A team of Air India Engineering Services Ltd. is undertaking the aircraft retrieval using a Damaged Aircraft Recovery Kit. Flights are currently being operated at the secondary runway, which has the lesser capacity, leading to delays in both arrivals and departures.

News

Cabinet approves the award of three out of six airports to Adani

British Airways to increase flights from Mumbai to Heathrow

Navigating challenge and change the Asia Pacific is the largest business travel region in the world, according to the July 2016 GBTA BTI Outlook Report, comprising 40 per cent of global business travel. Travel spend has grown at 7.7 per cent, annually since 2000, but it is expected to slow over the next few years. Off the back of economic growth, Australia’s corporate travel spend has grown at an average 3.5 per cent since 2010 and is predicted to experience annual gains of 4.2 per cent through to 2020. Whilst not the strong increases forecast for our Asian neighbours such as India and China, it is steady and a healthy sign for the future of corporate travel in our market. Despite these positives, there are still real challenges for travel procurement managers: traditionally, travel budgets can be seen as a drain on the bottom line and it can be hard to quantify the return on investment. Some companies may not want to increase their travel budgets to keep pace with growth, so finding ways to maintain or even increase the volume of travel within those constraints will become increasingly difficult. To add to this, business travellers are increasingly expecting more personalisation. They want a travel experience that allows for their preferences, for example, seat allocation, type of transfer or style of accommodation. They want to book what they want, when they want, how they want. The upside is a happier, more productive worker; the downside is a slide towards more ‘unmanaged’ travel with increased potential for policy leakage and risk

to travelling employees. The end result is that travel procurement is being squeezed from both ends: travellers want more flexibility and choice in order to be happy, productive workers on the road, while companies want more bangs for their buck; to get more out of their travel program for less cost.

The good news is there are ways, driven by technology, to keep travel costs down without needing to reduce the quantity or quality of travel.FINDING THE BALANCEFinding the balance between cost control and traveller satisfaction could be the holy grail of corporate

travel management and it’s no secret that technology can play a big part in achieving it. Having the right IT solutions is the obvious path to better efficiency and often its small features or changes that can make a significant difference. Choosing the right technology can help by:• Making booking travel faster and

easier• Bringing all the required elements

of a trip together in one place• Making fulfilment by your travel

management company fast and efficient

• Contributing to overall cost savings

• Providing valuable information on travel booking habits and spends

And that’s just for starters. Many of the factors in achieving cost control and better travel experience are contingent on having great IT in play.

CORPORATE TRAVEL’S ‘BIG SQUEEZE’How to keep costs down and travellers happy

Report

JULY 2019 33

Finding the balance between cost-control and traveller satisfaction could be the holy grail of corporate travel management. So how can a travel management program keep everyone happy, including the travel procurement manager? We look at the ways one can achieve travel management harmony as per the recent Amadeus discussion paper

34 JULY 2019

KIERAN TWOMEY Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) in Singapore has appointed Kieran Twomey as Group Chief Operating Officer. Prior to this, Twomey has held various hospitality leadership roles in regional/corporate headquarters and property level with focus on establishing guests and employee engagement, growing the market share, profitability and owners return. His 30 years of experience in the industry spans across key cities in Asia including Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Macau, Taipei, Bangkok, Manila and Jakarta.

LUBOSH BARTA Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, Thailand has appointed Lubosh Barta as General Manager. The hotel is anticipated to open in late 2019. Barta began his Four Seasons career 15 years ago at the company’s former location in Bangkok, where he was Director of Food and Beverage. Demonstrating leadership qualities from the outset, he was transferred to Chiang Mai before taking on his first General Manager position in Koh Samui.

ANAND SARODE Lords Hotels and Resorts has appointed Anand Sarode as General Manager – Sales. Sarode carries more than two decades of experience in hotel sales. At Lords he would be involved with all Regional Sales Offices and giving them a strategic direction and leading the team from the front. He will be responsible for furthering the sales network through TA, Corporate and other HNI clients. Prior to this, Sarode’s last assignment was with Mahindra Holidays & Resorts.

PRERNA DAGA The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi and The Westin Sohna Resort and Spa Appoints Prerna Daga as Multi Property Assistant Director – Marketing and Communications. Daga brings over 14 years of well-rounded experience in the realm of Marketing, Communications and PR within the luxury segment and hospitality industry. Her last assignment was with PVR Cinemas– The Luxury Collection, where she was heading Marketing & PR for the luxury arm comprising formats such as Director’s Cut and Gold Class.

VIKRAM MUJUMDARThe Westin Desaru Coast Resort in Bandar Penawar, Malaysia has appointed Vikram Mujumdar as General Manager of the 275-room resort. Mujumdar is a well-experienced and respected industry veteran with over two decades of knowledge of all aspects of management and operations of hotels worldwide. Prior to this, he was most recently Task Force General Manager at The St. Regis Vommuli Resort on Dhaalu Atoll in the Maldives, , overseeing the team during the opening of the 77-villa luxury resort.

BISWAJIT CHAKRABORTYPullman & Novotel New Delhi Aerocity have announced the appointment of Biswajit Chakraborty as General Manager Delegate (Cluster General Manager), who will spearhead the operations of the prestigious tripartite venture between Singapore GIC, InterGlobe and Accor. With an intricate understanding of the luxe segment, Chakraborty considers himself a catalyst that adds impetus to his team, by further creating finer experiences for the luxury and upscale travel and business market in the country.

HANNES BOSRadisson Hotel Group appoints Hannes Bos as Vice President, Commercial, Asia Pacific. An experienced hotel professional and revenue leader, Bos embarked on his hospitality career with AMS Hotel Group in Amsterdam. Specialising in revenue management, he also held senior management positions with Concorde Hotels in Paris and Millennium & Copthorne in London and Singapore. Bos has worked for VinGroup, Vietnam’s leading tourism and hospitality conglomerate and has 18 years of hospitality experience.

BEDE BARRYRosewood Hotel Group in Hong Kong, Hong Kong (SAR) has appointed Bede Barry as Vice President, Operations – Americas. Barry has more than 30 years of experience in the luxury hospitality industry. He was earlier VP of Operations at The Venetian Macao and The Parisian Macao under Sands China Ltd.. Prior to joining Sands China, Barry was the General Manager for Mandarin Oriental Macau, in addition to several other management positions with the Hyatt brand.

APPOINTMENTS

News

Y O U R E X T R A O R D I N A R Y S T O R Y

visitabudhabi.ae

Louvre Abu Dhabi#InAbuDhabi

AS LIGHT RAINS DOWN

UPON CENTURIES

OF INSPIRATION

you step back through gal ler ies

of t ime in a universal museum

stretching over the sea.

You are moved by the story

of humanity under a f loat ing

dome of l ight where there

is no end to art in s ight .