Volume 1 Issue VIII June 2011 Pages 60 `50 www.ttj.co.in Cashing upon the summer time, leading agents, airlines and hoteliers have come up with special packages that will surely tempt people to pack their bags and go on a vacation! e tussle between the travel agents and online portals for the number one position in the “bookings” category continues in our Big Fight. Give your event the perfect venue and book your dream holiday with Lesiure Tours. visit us at: www.leisuretoursindia.com Plan your holidays with Leisure Tours
Transcript
Volume 1 Issue VIII June 2011 Pages 60 `50
www.ttj.co.in
Cashing upon the summer time, leading agents, airlines and hoteliers have come up with special
packages that will surely tempt people to pack their bags and go on a vacation!
�e tussle between the travel agents and online portals for the number one position in the
“bookings” category continues in our Big Fight.
Give your event the perfect venue and book your dream holiday with Lesiure Tours.
visit us at:www.leisuretoursindia.com
Plan your holidays with
LeisureTours
Travel Trade Journal
EDITOR’S note
Chutti time!Well, may be not for you and me, but the general euphoria that one can see around with kids enjoying their time off from schools and universi-ties, across various parts of India is almost infectious. You may not have kids that are still at school going - stage or for that matter, have no kids at all, but come May - June and our hearts start yearning for “chutti”…! It’s almost like the “official” time to take a break where excuses ranging from kids to tiredness to scorching heat come in real handy!
So to help you plan your holiday a little better, TTJ in its June – Sum-mer Special issue brings to you an exhaustive selection of holiday packages being offered by various airlines and hotels across a plethora of destinations in India and abroad. Now don’t tell me you will not think of going on a leave when Kingfisher is offering such a tantalizing pack-age and Singapore Airlines has ex-tended the deadline for its special packages deal, and wait, I haven’t even told you about the attractive special price offer by Taj Falaknuma Hyderabad and WelcomHeritage Lallgarh Palace, Bikaner!!
Having been associated with the travel fraternity for long, well, probably as long as the launch of MakeMyTrip in India, considering it was one of my first assignments, the “tussle” and fight for the top position between online and offline agents has been an amusing one. Every time a new portal is launched, the agents’ community cries foul play, media labels offline agents as “redundant” and the online portals are left beaming as the “leaders” in bookings. But it’s not as simple as it looks. In a country with such vary-ing demographics as India, it is very much possible for both offline and online agents to co-exist. Taking this issue up in its “Big Fight,” TTJ, this month, brings to you an interest-ing mix of opinions on the age-old tussle between the agents and the portals.
Yes it’s that time of the year again when taking a holiday becomes as natural as breath-ing and eating. Thus, tapping upon the summer months ahead, we bring to you a wide gamut of special travel packages being offered by agents, airlines and hote-
liers. Though it generated good response locally, ATM this year was a little disappointing as the India participation was really low. Nevertheless, I would like to thank you for the warm response to our Horoscope section and the appreciation and keen interest shown by all. I request you to let us know your feedback on our magazine and give your inputs on areas where we can improve.
• Know more about the upcoming Pullman Gurgaon – Pg 8
• Latest news and summer packages from various airlines – Pg 12
• India @ ATM 2011 – Pg 26
• The tussle for co-existence between portals and agents – Pg 36
• Who is new on the board? – Pg 40
• Astro Speak exclusively for you – Pg 56
• Coffee with J B Singh – Pg 58
Travel Trade JournalTravel Trade Journal
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Travel Trade Journal
June 2011 LIGHTER SIDEJune 2011 4
Travel Lawsmurphy’s
tes
t yo
ur iq
!
HOLIDAYUPDATEThe following embassies will be closed on the mentioned dates.
June 2 (Thursday) - AUSTRIA, BELGIUM, FRANCE, INDONESIA, ITALY (National Day), MONGOLIA, NETHERLANDS and SWISS
June 3 (Friday) - BELGIUM (Com-pensation Gandhi Jayanti) and INDONESIA
June 6 (Monday) – CHINA (Dragon Boat Festival), IRELAND (Bank Holiday), SWEDEN (National Day)
June 7 (Tuesday) – MALTA (Sette Guigno)
June 10 (Friday) – PORTUGAL (National Day)
June 13 (Monday) - BELGIUM, GERMANY, NETHERLANDS and SWISS
June 15 (Wednesday) – MALDIVES (National Day)
June 17 (Friday) – ICELAND (National Day)
June 23 (Thursday) – LUXEM-BURG (National Day)
June 24 (Friday) – SWEDEN (Midsummer’s Eve)
June 27 (Monday) – DJIBOUTI (National Day)
Courtesy: JETSAVE
Courtesy: TARUN YADAV
NO FLIGHT EVER LEAVES ON TIME UNLESSYOU ARE RUNNING LATE AND NEED THEDELAY TO MAKE THE FLIGHT.
IF YOU ARE RUNNING LATE FOR A FLIGHT, IT WILL DEPART FROM THE FARTHEST GATE WITHIN THE TERMINAL.
IFYOU ARRIVE VERY EARLY FOR A FLIGHT, ITINEVITABLY WILL BE DELAYED.
FLIGHTS NEVER LEAVE FROM GATE #1 ATANY TERMINAL IN THE WORLD.
IF YOU MUST WORK ON YOUR FLIGHT, YOUWILL EXPERIENCE TURBULENCE AS SOONASYOU TOUCH PEN TO PAPER.
IF YOU ARE ASSIGNED A MIDDLE SEAT, YOUCAN DETERMINE WHO HAS THE SEATS ONTHE AISLE ANDTHE WINDOW WHILE YOU ARESTILL IN THE BOARDING AREA. JUST LOOKFOR THE TWO LARGEST PASSENGERS.
ONLY PASSENGERS SEATED AT WINDOW SEATS EVER HAVE TO GET UP TO GO TO THELAVATORY.
THE CRYING BABY ON BOARD YOUR FLIGHTIS ALWAYS SEATED NEXT TOYOU.
THE BEST - LOOKING WOMAN ON YOURFLIGHT IS NEVER SEATED NEXT TOYOU.
THE LESS CARRY - ON LUGGAGE SPACE AVAILABLE ON AN AIRCRAFT, THE MORE CARRY - ON LUGGAGE PASSENGERS WILL BRING ABOARD.
1. Name one sport in which neither the spectator nor the participant knows the score or the leader until the contest ends.2. Which famous North American landmark is constantly moving backward?3. What fruit has its seeds on the outside?4. Name the only vegetable or fruit that is never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form except fresh. 5. Name six or more things that you can wear on your feet beginning with the letter ‘S.’
1. Boxing 2. Niagara Falls (The rim is worn down about two and a half feet each year because of the millions of gallons of water that rush over it every minute.) 3. Strawberry 4. Lettuce 5. Shoes, socks, sandals, sneakers, slippers, skis, skates, snowshoes, stockings, stilts
answers
Travel Trade Journal
June 2011 LIGHTER SIDE 5
Sarovar Portico is an international standard three star hotel that offers 82
well designed guest rooms and suites. Positioned in an upscale township of Jaipur, its on-site dining options in-
clude Pavilion – all day dining, Sunset Bar and a Rooftop
Terrace restaurant.
Located in the heart of South Delhi, the hotel offers a boutique experience
with 50 well-designed rooms. Twenty Ten is its multi - cuisine restaurant
that offers an interesting selec-tion of Indian and interna-
tional cuisines.
Situated in the neighbourhood of Mall-eswaram, the hotel offers 230 guest
rooms and suites. In a city known for its exciting dining options, Sheraton
brings to you a modern array of choices in step with Benga-
luru’s cosmopolitan flair.
sarovar portico, jaipur
the ashtan sarovar portico,
new delhi sheraton, bengaluru
new kids on the hospitality block
Aunique ‘business lifestyle’ hotel set in a beautiful suburb of the city, Alila
Bengaluru comes equipped with 101 contemporary Studio Rooms, 12 SOHO Suites and seven Leisure Suites. Its three restaurants will
sarovarovarov r portiortior co, sarovarovarov r portiortior co, sheratherather on, sheratherather on,
Featuring 204 guest rooms ranging from Deluxe to Executive and Suites, the
upscale hotel is a 15-minute drive from Chennai’s domestic and international airports. It also offers guests an exairports. It also offers guests an ex-
tensive array of f&b outlets with tensive array of f&b outlets with five restaurants and bars
to choose from.
hilton, chennaihiltltl on, chennaihiltltl on, chennaiJJJust 275 km from the Bengaluru Inter-national airport, the hotel offers 108
elegantly decorated Deluxe rooms, Club suites and a Presidential suite. Its dining
options include Pinxx, a 24 hr cof-fee shop, Tiger Trail – the Indian cuisine restaurant and Mix Bar
– its signature lounge bar.
royal central, shimoga
royroyr aoyaoy l cententen rarar l, royroyr aoyaoy l cententen rarar l,
the ashtathe ashtathe ash n tan tathe ashtathe ashtathe ash n tan ta
June 2011 June 2011 6
Travel Trade Journal
CLOSE UP
From a humble beginning in the hospitality circuit to moving on to launching properties, managing hotel chains and finally becoming the Managing Director – India and Regional Vice President – South Asia, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Dilip Puri has indeed come a long way and left behind a professional legacy that is tough to beat. Extremely modest, who counts success not by the properties he has launched but by the successful people he has motivated, TTJ caught up with him on a sunny afternoon to know what the veteran likes to do, when not working!
Who do you consider your mentor in life? Let me use an analogy. If I were a Roman Catho-lic priest, Mr. PRS Oberoi would be my pope, Mr. Anil Madhok would be my cardinal and Ajay Bakaya and Rajiv Kaul would be my bishops! All great hoteliers who have had a significant impact on my life and career as a hospitality professional.
Up & personal with
PRIYANKA SAXENAPRIYANKA SAXENAPRIYANKA SAXENA
Dilip Puri
How do you view life?I view life as a journey which I try and keep fairly uncomplicated. My mantra is – work hard and play harder. Enjoy every moment in life; it’s anyway too short to be filled with regrets.
1When not working, you are?Playing golf or reading a good book or spend-ing time with my friends and family. I am a keen golfer and a voracious reader. I look forward to meetings of my book club which provides me with the intellectual stimulation I sometimes crave for. For me, reading is a big passion.
2Your proud moment, professionally and personally?Professionally, opening the Holiday Inn Pune as my first GM assignment and going on to see that hotel win award after award including my receiving the GM of the year award in 1997 was a very proud time for me. Personally, be-coming a father for the first time has been a hard act to follow.
8What keeps you motivat-ed?People and their success keeps me motivated. People, whom I have nurtured, men-tored and who are success-ful today give me the motiva-tion to keep doing what I do and enjoy it.
9
What are your favourite travel destinations in India and abroad?In India, I love going to Goa, so much so that I have also bought a house there, while in-ternationally, I find Maldives the most beauti-ful. Having lived in Africa (Kenya) for a few years, I simply love the wildlife and the nat-ural beauty of the African continent. I have had some fantastic wildlife experiences during my time there.
3Any travel memory that has stayed on with you?Taking a photograph of a gigantic male lion at the Nairobi National Park with the back drop of sky scrapers from the city’s business district, watching lions kill or mate, watching the crocodile buffet when a million wildebeests and zebras are crossing rivers during the great migration in East Africa, all have been some wonder travel memories from my time in Africa. It was like seeing National Geographic, but live and in person. Simply spectacular!
4Your travelling essentials include?My books are my biggest priority. In addition to that, since I am a frequent traveller, I have a travel kit consisting of all my basic require-ments that I pick up while leaving for a trip. The latest addition to the list is my iPad.
5
Who would you say are your immediate competitors?From Starwood’s perspective, the major domestic chains and the big boys amongst the international hotel operators are our main competitors. We are clearly the market leaders in the up-per upscale within the international operators and are looking to strengthen that lead while lining up the big boys of India in our sights. We expect to remain a very dominant player in the Indian
hospitality industry and are here for the long term.
What according to you is the major concern for the Indian hospitality today?We need to stop being greedy! India has come a long way in its hospitality growth, and still counting, but that doesn’t give us the right to rob customers as per our fancy. We should look at sustainability and not short-term profit. There is a need to inculcate a long-term approach in the minds of the hoteliers today. Considering the rate at which hotel supply is growing in India, a more disci-plined approach to pricing and competitiveness is imperative. And let’s stop cribbing about lack of infrastructure, corruption, difficulty of acquiring land and building projects. If you are in the business, you should have come in with your eyes wide open and be prepared to manage your environment. Hospitality is definitely not for the faint hearted.
6
From a humble beginning in the hospitality circuit to moving on to launching properties, managing hotel chains and finally becoming the Managing Director – India and Regional Vice President – South Asia, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Dilip Puri has indeed come a long way
10
7
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June 2011 June 2011 8
Travel Trade Journal
HOTEL CONNECT
If you thought being the first five-star property in the area would have its hiccups and bottlenecks, think again, for Hilton New Delhi/Janakpuri expe-
rienced a surge of thirsty clientele that were des-perate for a high-end product in their vicinity. “We have positioned Hilton New Delhi/Janakpuri as the
first international hotel brand in West Delhi. The ho-tel will be the first choice for international travellers and local business and leisure guests. The hotel’s restaurants and bars, as well as the large banquet capabilities, mean that there will now be some great new dining and entertainment options within the neighbourhood,” says Rubal, adding, “We feel that Janakpuri and the area around it have a lot of potential that remains untapped and has not been explored by other hotel brands. Moreover, the area has a large business potential for banquet and f&b. Being the first five star hotel in this area means that we will be the first to tap into the potential of this
area and showcase what hospitality is all about.”While Rubal believes that the USP of the prop-
erty is manifold, comprising its huge lobby, comfort-able guest rooms and large banqueting facilities, it’s the dynamic food and beverage options at the property that is and can be further developed as its strongest USP. Each and every restaurant at the property has a unique feature of its own. Its Indian restaurant Zune has recently introduced the con-cept of Pickle Trolley with a pickle sommelier. Also tea lounge at Chynna Gold showcases 18 rarest varieties of teas by the TWG Tea Company in Sin-gapore. Twenty-9 the multi cuisine restaurant offers extensive buffet spread for lunch and dinner. Their recently opened Italian restaurant – Pomodoro fea-tures fine Italian cuisines, predominantly revolving around Napoli, Pidemonte, Sicily and Tuscany.
“We have our positioning clear in our mind. We are aware of our target customer and will deliver a truly Hilton experience, driving loyalty and recom-mendation for our brand. As far as competition is concerned, it will only help us focus more on our vision and brand promise,” he concluded.
Pullman is the upscale brand of Accor, placed between Novotel, the mid-scale brand and Sofitel, the luxury brand. Across the Asia Pa-
cific region Pullman is the fastest growing upscale brand with a target of 150 hotels globally in the next five years. What distinguishes Pullman from other Accor brands is its focus on MICE business, there-fore, Pullman properties, across the globe, have large conferencing facilities. Following the line, its upcoming hotel in Gurgaon, will have 285 rooms with about 17,000 square feet of conference space spread over three levels.
“Pullman as a brand specialises in MICE busi-ness and the new age business traveller. Gurgaon as a market is a perfect match for such ambitions. During last decade, Gurgaon has gone through major changes and has now developed into a
prime business and shopping district in New Delhi and National Capital Region. Thus, with the speed in growth, comes the rise of numerous hotels in and around Gurgaon. Weddings have also flourished in the city due to the quality of product that has emerged in recent times,” said Scott.
Scott further feels that with so many brands coming into the market the challenge is to differen-tiate one’s brand and product against competition. “It is becoming a crowded market place with some oversupply in certain cities in the short to medium term. The challenge is there for all the hoteliers to attract, retain quality people and grow our human resources from within,” he said, adding, “There is, of course, competition in the Indian hospitality mar-ket and there are lots of choices available for the
end user. However, Pullman as a brand has a focus on Meetings Incentives, Conferences and Exhibi-tions (MICE) market. The growth in supply is a posi-tive for the industry as the market is becoming more segmented presenting the consumer and travel in-dustry with more options across all price points to meet the needs of the business and leisure travel-ler, in particular in Gurgaon and NCR, which in turn is making the region a more attractive location.”
Hilton Janakpuri builds upon its strong f&b options
Pullman Gurgaon, the new landmark in NCR, will open this summer
It heralded the era of “five-star” hotels in West Delhi and the rest, as they say, is history. Over an year old now, Hilton New Delhi / Janakpuri is not only experiencing high occupancies but its f&b and banqueting facilities are also reaping good results. Rubal Chaudhary, General Manager, Hilton New Delhi / Janakpuri, shares his vision for the property with TTJ.
Pullman Gurgaon Central Park, once operational this year, will be the first Pullman hotel in India. Supplementing this, three more Pullman Hotels are currently under development, in Lavasa, Delhi International Airport and Bengaluru. Scott Davies, General Manager, Pullman Gurgaon Central Park speaks to TTJ about his plans and vision for the property.
PRIYANKA SAXENA
TTJ DESK
Pullman as a brand specialises in MICE
business and the new age business traveller.
We are aware of our target customer and will deliver a true Hilton experience,
driving loyalty and recommendation for our brand.
Rubal Chaudhary
Scott Davies
June 2011 June 2011 10
Travel Trade Journal
Being the first transit hotel of India, Eaton Smart is one of its kind hotel, located at Terminal 3 of the Indira Gandhi International
Airport of Delhi and is strategically placed in the middle of international and the domestic wing of the airport. “The brand currently enjoys the ben-efits of being the number one with no competition at all. However, this also brings about huge pres-sure on us to set a certain benchmark, which not only provides our customers an exceptional class of service but would also be the model for poten-tial operators in the category to imitate in the time to come,” said Vikram Khettry, General Manager - Eaton Smart.
As it is all about making transiting a more comfy experience, it is essentially a full service hotel with flexible stay options. Its domestic wing has 36 rooms while the international wing has 57 rooms reserved for those who have cleared customs. Pas-sengers travelling within India who present a valid ticket can access one of the 36 spacious rooms in the domestic wing of the T3. All the rooms are 21 sq mt in size and are available for `3,000 for five hours.
The hotel’s USP revolves round its quick turn-around, smart use of room space, contemporary designing and comfortable facilities. It also offers free internet access, a rejuvenating spa, innova-
tive Aqua Pods with wash and change facility, a gymnasium and a T Lounge serving teas, alco-holic beverages and freshly-prepared all-day din-ing menus. Soft and soothing colours have been selected for the interiors so that the travellers can forget the travelling anxiety for the time they are in the hotel. Taking its corporate social responsibil-ity very sincerely, Langham Hospitality Group also focuses on environmental management and are responsible partners in the communities in which they operate.
The first property of Four Seasons opened in Mumbai in 2008, and there has been no look-ing back since then. “Building on its success,
we are aiming to close the year 2011 in the low 70s. We are excited to expand in this market with a presence in Delhi and Bengaluru. The Delhi prop-erty will come up in four years’ time in partnership with 3C (a real estate developer). Our Bengaluru
partnership is with Westcourt to develop Four Sea-sons Hotel Bengaluru and Private Residences by 2014. We are also looking to open resorts in attrac-tive destinations like Kerala, Rajasthan and Goa,” said Harrison.
With high targets in place, the property has vari-ous marketing strategies chalked out to meet them this year. “We are looking to actively build on our corporate base as we mainly operate as a busi-ness hotel. In addition, unique quarterly promotions with our F&B and Spa facilities will help increase local footfalls. The two USPs of our property are lo-cation and service,” he said. The hotel is centrally located, linking North and South Mumbai, in the emerging district of Worli – Lower Parel, which is the commercial belt for business, shopping and lei-sure activities. Guests enjoy convenience and high
productivity due to reduced travelling to and from Mumbai’s commercial and financial districts (15 km to the South). Its well trained staff has the ability to provide speed, recognition, personalised service for a guest with a wider range of services leading to superior and prompt service delivery.
Now that there are so many new hotels open-ing up in various parts of Mumbai, the competition is definitely increasing, which in a way is good for the hospitality business as a whole. Mumbai being the economic capital of the country, increase in the room inventory reflects positive growth and confi-dence of travellers’ in the Indian market.
However, there are some concerns afflicting the hospitality industry in India today. “India has an estimated five million foreign tourists and close to six million domestic tourists every year. It amazes me that an island like Bali, looks at 10 million tour-ists a year. Surely the question to be asked is why India isn’t developing as a tourist destination wor-thy of what it has to offer? The hoteliers across the country should manage pricing v/s demand inflow. Dramatic realignment, which is a common practice amongst some of our competitors, is a dangerous precedent to set,” he concluded.
Eaton eases transit experience at T3
Four Seasons Mumbai to open new properties across India
Vikram Khettry
Andrew Harrison
With huge investments in airport infrastructure, the number of transiting passengers stand at around 1,500 per day in Delhi, which is a clear indication of the growing demand for transit facilities. Taking the lead in the segment is Eaton Smart, by Langham Hospitality Group, which is the first mover in the transit hotel category, in India.
With plans to open new resorts at prime locales in India, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai is on an expansion mode. Andrew Harrison, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, shares his success mantra with TTJ.
AKANSHA RUPAINWAR
MUMBAI CORRESPONDENT
We are looking to actively build on our corporate base as we mainly
would redefine the service standard with unparalleled
guest service. We also look forward to making our pres-ence felt with more proper-ties opening up in Delhi/NCR region in the near future.”
The contemporary and upscale banqueting hotel is raring to become the pre-ferred destination for top end MICE, elite social events,
and memorable holidays with friends and family. With an ideal location in the heart of South Delhi on the Chhatarpur Mandir Road near Mehrauli, it
is just 24 km from the interna-tional airport and 20 km from the domestic airport.
With more than 2,500 sq ft of indoor space and 35,000 sq ft of garden space, Fortune Park Boulevard is designed to host meetings and events of nearly any shape or size. In addition to a boardroom that can accom-modate 12 people, the hotel has 34 beautifully furnished rooms, some with private sit out lawn. The range of guest amenities includes Satellite LCD TV, a tea/coffee maker, an electronic safe, a mini bar, high speed wi-fi connectivity and 24-hour room service.
In case, you wake up hungry in the middle of the night, Orchid- the 24-hour multi-cuisine restaurant will gladly serve you toothsome cuisines. While the soon to open Wellness Centre with gym/steam/sauna/body treat-ment will help you to shed the avoirdupois of exhaustion Neptune – Bar & Lounge of-fers a space to both indulge and unwind. The pellucid wa-ters, the silhouettes of open space, the shady bowers of lush green trees, invite you to celebrate life and make one’s wish of that perfect wedding, a festivity or special occasion an exceptional experience customized to one’s wish list. Fortune Park Boulevard –it is where both business and lei-sure, are pleasure.
Fortune Park Hotels opens its first hotel in New DelhiLuxury has a new name, and comfort has a new address – Fortune Park Boulevard at Chhatarpur in New Delhi. Fortune Park Boulevard is the first Fortune hotel in New Delhi and the 38th hotel of ITC’s wholly-owned subsidiary Fortune Park Hotels Ltd with 63 signed alliances spread across 47 cities in India. The 34 room property is owned by Sakhuja Resorts Pvt. Ltd.NEHA SHARMA
June 2011 June 2011 12 FLYING HIGH
Marking Qatar Airways’ first new route to the African continent since early 2007,
it will now initiate with daily non-stop scheduled flights to Uganda’s sec-ond largest city of Entebbe due to begin on November 2, 2011. Four weeks later, effective November 30, the carrier expands into Central Asia introducing daily non-stop flights to Baku which continue on to Tbilisi, the capital cities of Azerbaijan and Georgia respectively. All the three new routes will be operated by Air-bus A320 aircraft in a two-class con-figuration with 12 seats in Business Class and 132 in Economy.
The Gulf carrier has fasten its seat belt for a busy summer ahead with further launches and capacity increases to a number of existing destinations. The Doha-based car-rier prepares for a few busy months ahead with the launch of scheduled flights to Shiraz, Venice and Mon-treal in June; Kolkata in July; Sofia in September and Oslo in October. “The new routes further demonstrat-ed the airline’s ambitious strategy to continue opening up new routes to popular and underserved markets,”
unveiled Akbar Al Baker, Chief Ex-ecutive Officer, Qatar Airways.
“As we take delivery of more air-crafts, we will quickly induct them into service and constantly look at new opportunities to give the travel-ling public more travel options, more choice and more flexibility,” added Al Baker. The airline currently serves 100 diverse business and leisure cities worldwide with a modern fleet of 97 aircrafts. By 2013, the airline plans to serve more than 120 des-tinations with a fleet of over 120 air-crafts.
With effect from May 30, 2011, Finnair opened di-rect flights to Singapore
which is the carrier’s 10th destina-tion in Asia. The flights are being operated using Finnair’s state-of-the-art Airbus A340 aircraft.
“Finnair’s Asian strategy has worked extremely well. The Singa-pore route will strongly support our
core strategy as well as serve our main target group of customers travelling between Asia and Europe on business,” said Mika Vehvilainen, CEO, Finnair.
The route offers superb onward connections from both Helsinki and Singapore. For Asian customers it opens up connections to the 50 - strong European destination network served by Finnair. “The new route to Singapore gives splendid support to Helsinki Airport’s position as the leading long haul hub in Northern Europe,” said Juha-Pekka Pystynen Director - Helsinki Airport. Custom-ers travelling onwards through Sin-gapore can connect with flights offered as part of Finnair’s partner network to Australia, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Finnair taps Singapore as its 10th destination in Asia
Voted as the best airline of the Middle East, Qatar Airways is once again keen to explore the international route network with Uganda, Azerbaijan and Georgia from its Doha hub from November 2011. TTJ highlights major expansion plans of the carrier for the year ahead.
Finnair’s daily flights are the fastest growing connection between Northern Europe and Singapore. By starting direct flights to Singapore the carrier has reached its mark of 10th scheduled destination in Asia. TTJ brings the news in detail to you.
Under the Mumbai special offer scheme one can fly from Mumbai to Paris in economy for `29,275 and to Zurich in `29,667. Return flight fares include all taxes and fees. The sales and travel validity of tick-ets for both the destinations are on till May 16 – June 15, 2011. The travel validity expires on June 30, 2011.(Terms and conditions apply)
QATAR AIRWAYS
Travel Trade Journal
TTJ DESK
TTJ DESK
June 2011 June 2011 14
Travel Trade Journal
FLYING HIGH
International Air Transport Association (IATA) recent-ly announced new “bag-
gage provisions selection criteria” (resolution 302) for all member airlines in decid-ing baggage allowance and excess baggage charges for journeys involving mul-
tiple carriers. This applies to all tickets issued after April 1, 2011. Baggage travel al-lowances and charges for journeys involving more than one carrier will follow the al-lowances and charges of the “Most Significant Carrier” (MSC) of the journey.
The allowances and charges will not be affected by the new rule if the com-plete journey is exclusively on Cathay Pacific and/or the sister airline Dragonair. A spokesperson from the
airline emphasised there will be no changes to Cathay Pacific’s checked baggage allowances, cabin baggage allowances and extra bag-gage charges.
For journeys after April 1, 2011, involving multiple air-lines, the baggage policy of MSC will apply. Passengers on such journeys may see an increase or decrease in their free baggage allowance or excess baggage charges,
depending on which airline is considered the MSC dur-ing the particular trip.
If one wishes to know more about the “Most Signifi-cant Carrier” (MSC), in ac-cordance with the IATA reso-lution, it can be found at the Cathay Pacific website www.cathaypacific.com. To locate the MSC of a journey, please contact the travel agent or the Cathay Pacific reserva-tions offices.
Singapore Stopover Holiday (SSH) package which was ear-lier valid up to March 31, 2011
is now open for bookings till June 30, 2011 and for travel till Sep 30, 2011. The stimulating package offers cus-tomers travelling roundtrip beyond Singapore, a one-night complimenta-ry stay in Singapore. Those travelling by Economy and Business Class can avail this amazing opportunity on the way to their destination or back. It is valid from India to any city operated by Singapore Airlines and Silk Air in South East Asia (except Singapore), North Asia, Southwest Pacific and USA. The offer is valid for minimum two passengers travelling together on the same flights on mileage accru-able classes.
“Keeping in mind the enormous response received by our customers and agents, we are glad to announce the extension dates of the SSH pack-age. Customers can enjoy the op-portunity to experience Singapore on their way to or back from their des-tinations. We look forward to offering our consumers more such deals in the future,” said G. M. Toh, General
Manger, Singapore Airlines, India.The itinerary of the package has a
bagful of variety to offer. Airport trans-fers, unlimited rides on the Singapore Airlines’ hop-on tourist bus services and comfortable one-night accom-modation at some of Singapore’s fin-est hotels. The airline traveller can also discover the city with access to some of Singapore’s leading attrac-
tions like the Jurong Bird Park, Chi-natown Heritage Centre, Singapore river bumboat tour, Marina Bay Golf Course and Sentosa Island. Foodies can relish mouth watering delicacies with a 50 per cent concession on a-la-carte food at designated outlets/restaurants in the hotel of stay and a free coffee/tea cum kaya-toast set at Ya Kun, a famous beverage chain in Singapore.
For bookings of free Singapore Stopover Holiday package, log on to www.singaporeair.com or contact your nearest travel agent today.
Cathay to adhere new IATA policy
Singapore Airlines extends its package dates
Cathay Pacific Airways will now be following the new rule set by IATA relating to the baggage allowance and excess baggage charges. TTJ tells you more about the new ruling.
The remarkable response received from customers and travel agents compelled Singapore Airlines and Silk Air to extend the free Singapore Stopover Holiday package dates. TTJ brings to you the complete information on the exciting packages being offered.
Customerscan enjoy the opportunityto experience
Singapore on their way to or back from their destinations.
Fly non-stop from Delhi to San Francisco and Los Angeles with the special offers. The fares from Delhi to San Francisco are `65,500and to Los Angeles are `64,700. The sales period is on till June 30, 2011 and the travel period is valid till June 30, 2011 (first outbound should be on/before this date). The fares detailed in the offer/promotion are subject to availability and offered on a first come, first served basis.(Terms and conditions apply)
CATHAY
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Low fares, on time perfor-mance and hassle-free travel experience are the
three highlights of the largest low-fare carrier. But that’s not the only thing they keep banking on. Once again they stand tall and strong with their latest offer-ing- Get Packing. Supplemented with exciting itineraries across the country, from Gulmarg to Ka-ziranga and Munnar to Agra this vacation package gives IndiGo travellers the chance to plan for the perfect trip. One can book holidays and business packages in one go, either on the exclusive Get Packing website http://get-packing.goindigo.in or by calling the IndiGo call centre. It aims to address all facets of a holiday - flights, hotel accommodation, air-port transfers, local conveyance, entertainment et al.
“IndiGo is always looking for ways to take the hassle out of trav-el for our customers. We want to
extend the very same features to holidays in India. Get Packing is a simple idea designed for people who are looking for a high qual-ity travel experience at low prices, with the minimal wastage of time and that too without any hassles. Get Packing will present a unique experience to plan holiday pack-ages at affordable rates without compromises. We are really ex-cited about this new product and I am sure that our customers will love it too!” said Aditya Ghosh, President, IndiGo.
To give the valuable custom-ers a wide choice of options, for the above initiative, leading chains like the Accor Group, Fortune, Sa-rovar, The Pride and Lemontree have tied-up with IndiGo along with a host of smaller chains or individual hotels. The technology front in this regard is handled by IRES Networks, an experienced player in this area.
With effect from July 28, 2011, the wide bodied Boeing 777-300ER, with
its three class configuration, will considerably enrich the in-flight ex-perience of Jet Airways’ travellers on the Mumbai – Hong Kong route. The Mumbai to Newark, via Brus-sels route will witness the change from September 23, 2011 with the same aircraft, twice a week (on Fridays and Sundays only). With eight First Class suites, having the
world’s longest airline beds, per-sonal closets, dining tables for two and 23” flat screens the guests will now enjoy ultimate luxury, privacy and comfort in the air.
“We are delighted to announce the deployment of the state-of-the-art Boeing 777-300ER aircraft on the Hong Kong and Newark routes, which has been necessitated due to growing traffic demand in the premium segment. We are confi-dent that the Boeing 777’s three class configuration will help us deliver a significantly superior and enriched service experience for all our guests,” commented Sudheer Raghavan, Chief Operating Officer, Jet Airways.
The airline’s Business Class now boasts of having 30 totally comfort-able seats that convert to 73” long perfectly flat beds. The leg room in the Economy Class of Boeing 777-300ER aircraft has now also gone a bit more generous than the normal. Guests in all three classes will have access to the high-tech Panasonic eX2 entertainment system, with 200+ movies, games and endless music choices.
‘Get Packing’ with IndiGo
Jet redefines First Class service with Boeing 777-300ER
As the holidaying season comes knocking on your doors, IndiGo is all set to take off with its itineraries of nearly 150 packages to 30 destinations. TTJ unveils the exclusive holiday offering by IndiGo and its strategy to woo its customers, yet again.
With an average fleet age of 5.15 years, Jet Airways has one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the world. Continuing with this process of enriching its inflight services, it is all set to deploy Boeing 777-300ER aircraft on the Mumbai – Hong Kong / Newark sectors. Get to know more with TTJ.
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Taking the holiday zing to another level, a trav-eller can opt for King-
fishers’ ready-to-go, “off the shelf” packages, to avail cus-tomised destinations/prod-ucts, at affordable prices. Some of its recent products include Dubai Shopping Fes-tival – centric packages, Val-entine specials, Fixed Depar-tures to Thailand and Hong Kong and its latest addition, the Fly-N-Cruise packages covering exotic destinations. With the variety of packages the airline offer, the guests are sure to be spoilt for choice!
Meanwhile, Kingfisher Airline’s total revenue for
FY11 was `6,496 crore which is a 23 per cent improvement over FY10. Higher demand and stable yields combined with higher aircraft utilisation contributed to the revenue growth. The EBITDA margin for the year was 2.2 per cent, despite an extra-ordinary cost impact of `220 crore which has been charged off in the P&L.
Domestic operations saw a Revenue per Avail-able Seat Kilometre (RASK) improvement of 19 per cent whereas the International RASK improved by 43 per cent. For the fiscal year 2011, EBITDAR was `1,124 crore vs. `404 crore in FY10. This was an improvement of `720 crore. EBITDAR margin for the year was at 17.3 per cent vs. last year at 7.7 per cent.
Kingfisher Holidays offer memorable getawaysKingfisher Holidays is offering customised international and domestic holiday packages for families, groups and corporates, to destinations across the Kingfisher Airlines network. From the finest flying experience, to luxurious accommodation and excitement-packed activities, these holiday packages provide memorable getaways for every season.
TTJ DESKKingfisher First packages starting at `137,171Hong Kong with Disneyland (four nights / five days)Return airfare inclusive of taxestwo night accommodation in base room category with breakfast in Hong Kong at Inter-continental Grand Stanford or Nikko Hotel or similartwo night accommodation in base room category with breakfast in Disneyland at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel - Garden View Room or similar Private return airport transfers.Private Hong Kong Night tour with Madame Tussauds Private Ocean Park tourDisneyland theme park with private transfersAll applicable taxes
(Terms and conditions apply)
ATTRACTIVEPACKAGE
June 2011 June 2011 18 FLYING HIGH
Travel Trade Journal
The Gwalior – Mumbai route was covered by flight AI 421/422 on April 18, 2011
with the 122-seater Airbus A319, which has a dual configuration of eight Executive Class and 114 Economy Class seats.
Vayalar Ravi, Minister for Civil Aviation and Jyotiraditya Scindia, State Minister for Commerce and Industry, flagged off the initial flight from Gwalior to Mumbai at the Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia Civil Terminal, Gwalior Airport, in the presence of Arvind Jad-hav, CMD, Air India and other main dignitaries. “After this, Air India will be launching the Delhi- Ranchi - Kolkata flight very soon with an aim to connect the tier II cities with metros,” commented Ravi.
Flight AI 421 from Delhi to Gwalior will depart Delhi at 1400
hours and reach Gwalior at 1440 noon, take off from Gwalior at 1505 hrs and reach Mumbai at 1635 hours. The return flight AI 422 will leave Mumbai at 1500 hours and arrive in Gwal-ior at 1630 hours, de-part from Gwaliorat 1655 hrs and reach Delhi at 1735 hrs. Undoubtedly, the introduction of this much needed flight will link the two im-portant cities and facilitate the movementof business and leisure travellers.
flydubai, Dubai’s first low cost airline, recently an-nounced operations to
its much anticipated second destination in India – Hydera-bad. The airline’s 37th desti-nation will provide a low cost option from Dubai to one of the fastest-growing cities in the world and will open up Southern India to travellers on flydubai’s rapidly expand-ing network.
Flights to Hyderabad will operate three times per week and will start on June 11, 2011 giving the 1.4 million-strong Indian expat commu-nity in the UAE a timely yet low-cost connection to their
home country during the peak summer holiday sea-son.
Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai said, “We are de-lighted to announce Hydera-bad as our latest destina-tion. There is a huge Indian community in the UAE and one of the reasons flydubai was established was to pro-vide low cost, quality links to places the expat community in the UAE wish to travel to. Hyderabad is an important new route for flydubai and goes a long way in our ef-forts to fulfil that commit-ment. While our Lucknow route provides a gateway to
North and Central lndia; our Hyderabad route will be a low-cost connection to South India, benefiting not only the Indian expat population in the UAE but also bringing increased tourism and busi-ness opportunities to this his-toric city.”
Flight FZ435 to Hydera-bad will depart Dubai from-Terminal 2 at 2030 hrs, arriving in Hyderabad at 0145 hrs local time.
The return flight FZ436 will de-part from Hyderabad at 0230 hrs, landing back in Dubai at
0440 hrs. A one-way fare to Hyderabad from Dubai starts at AED 585, and includes one piece of hand luggage weighing up to seven kg and one small laptop bag or hand bag. Fares from Hyderabad to Dubai are priced from AED 760. Checked bag-gage starts at AED 50 for 20 kgs. A seat with extra leg-room costs AED100.
KENYA is known for its wildlife reserves containing thousands of animal species and is sec-
ond among Africa’s highest mountain peaks. A K Nizar, Head of Commer-cial at Air Arabia, says, “Kenya’s wild-life safari entices tourists from across the globe. We have thoughtfully cho-sen this magical destination for our customers this holiday season. We are delighted to offer this exciting low-cost holiday package to Kenya from six cities in India. This convenient affordable pleasure trip is bound to serve as an exciting excursion for our customers this summer. We encour-age all travellers to take advantage of
this attractive travel offer.”This holiday package is inclusive
of a return Economy Class airfare on Air Arabia with current applicable airport taxes and surcharges. More-over, on arrival at Nairobi (the capital of Kenya), this package would also include, meet and assist service and accommodation in four star hotels/ lodges. In addition this package of-fers a daily buffet breakfast in Nairobi and full board Indian cuisine meals during the Safari. Besides, game drives, park entrance fee and all hotel taxes and service charges will be part of this summer package.
Air India bridges the gap between Gwalior – Mumbai
flydubai starts operations to Hyderabad
Fly to Kenya with Air Arabia’s exclusive summer packages
In its attempt to connect the non metro cities with the metros, the national carrier has initiated with connecting the historical city Gwalior with India’s financial capital - Mumbai and has plans to launch five to six more such flights in the coming months. TTJ tells you about the plans in detail.
Air Arabia through its Air Arabia Holidays arm has come up with an exciting summer special package – a five days four nights trip to the magical country Kenya. This trip starts from `49,500 per person on twin sharing from the following cities in India – Mumbai, Nagpur, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru and is valid till June 20, 2011.
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June 2011 FLYING HIGH 19
Lufthansa passengers travelling from India to Europe can now carry
significantly more baggage free of charge in all classes from June 1, 2011. Adopting the piece concept on all its flights globally, the airline has simplified its free baggage allowance policy. Economy passengers will be allowed one piece weighing up to 23kg. In the Business class, two bags with a combined
weight of 64kg are now per-missible and in the first class, travellers can now take up to three bags weighing 32kg each. Previously it was a total of 20kg in Economy, 30kg for Business Class and 40kg for the First Class passengers.
In addition to their checked-in baggage, Luf-thansa passengers travel-ling in First or Business Class can take two items of hand baggage on board. In Economy Class, the free baggage allow-ance remains one item of hand baggage, as
before. The weight and di-mension rules for the hand baggage also remains the same. The new baggage policy has already been suc-cessfully implemented on North Atlantic routes and of-fers simplicity and clarity.
For tickets booked be-fore June 1, 2011 the previ-ous baggage allowances, as printed on the ticket, will ap-
ply. Depending on their sta-tus, miles and more members can check in additional items free of charge.
For more information about baggage regulations from the Lufthansa service centre in India call 01 800 102 5838. A full overview of the new, simplified rules has also been posted on the Luf-thansa website at www.luf-thansa.com/baggage.
Lufthansa eases baggage allowance policySeems like Lufthansa is following the KISS (keep it straight and simple) theory as from June 1, 2011 by allowing its passengers in all classes to carry more than twice the baggage weight that they were entitled to previously. TTJ brings to you the facts in detail.
On the India to Europe and US route, special fares are offered by Lufthansa. The Delhi to Munich package starts from `33,944 and the Delhi to Amsterdam one from `37,033. They are online return fares with outbound on July 11 and return on Sept 12, 2011 depending on the avail-ability as of now. Please check www.lufthansa.com regularly to know about the latest offers.(Terms and conditions apply)
LUFTHANSAAKANSHA RUPAINWAR
Jetsave - The distinctive name in visa industry.Jetsave Holidays “Your own tour division”Jetsave Homez Premium service apartment
Jetsave India Tours Pvt. Ltd.30/28,3rd Floor,(opp.Mughal Mahal Restaurant),East Patel Nagar, New Delhi-110008Ph.: 011-45616161Fax- 011-45616171,45616172Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Visit a wide variety of destinations this sum-mer season with some
very attractive packages by Arzoo.com.
The dreamland Kash-mir package by Arzoo.com
starts and ends at Srinagar and is valid from March 1 to September 30, 2011 for duration of three nights/ four days. The itinerary in-cludes local sightseeing at Srinagar and Gulmarg. The
Standard hotel stay will be in an A- class houseboat / Hotel New Park/ similar in `9,000 and the deluxe type would be in a Super Deluxe Shahenshah Houseboat / Hotel Shahenshah / similar
for `12,000 on twin sharing basis. The package includes fixed menu / buffet breakfast and dinner, exclusive non A/C vehicle for transfers and sightseeing and shikara ride on Dal Lake.
The Ooty tour package by Arzoo.com is valid from March 1 to June 15, 2011 for duration of three nights / four days. The package starts at `6,990 for adult in twin from Coimbatore and includes the stay and sightseeing at Ooty. The standard stay would be in Lake View or similar.
Witness Thailand’s hot-test destinations Pattaya and Bangkok with Arzoo.com. The package is for duration of four nights and valid up to June 30, 2011. The stay in Pattaya would be at Beverly Plaza / Hotel Erawan and in Bangkok at Pratunam Inn / Princeton Park. The cost `25,550 from Delhi includes return economy class airfare with taxes.
(Terms and conditions apply)
Ezeego1.com has launched Europe group holidays with limited departures. Euro-pean Wonders package is for a duration of 11 days / 10 nights and includes travel to United Kingdom, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein. The fare is
`92,999 per person on twin share basis. European Odyssey package is for 15 days / 14 nights to United Kingdom, Netherlands, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria and Italy in just `1,47,799. These are inclusive of return airfare with taxes; accommoda-tion; overseas mediclaim policy; cost of UK and Schengen visa fees and service charges; services of Ezeego1.com tour leader or local representative; meals, coach transfers, en-trance fees, sightseeing and surface transportation as mentioned in the itinerary.For those looking out for a relatively less expensive package, Instant Holidays is the best option.
DESTINATION DURATION COST
Funfilled Thailand 4 Nights / 5 Days `19,999
Dazzling Dubai 3 Nights / 4 Days `21,099
Hongkong Hungama 3 Nights / 4 Days `28,439
Singapore Surprise 3 Nights / 4 Days `30,909
Spectacular Mauritius 6 Nights / 7 Days `44,999
Magical Maldives 3 Nights / 4 Days `46,599
These rates are per person on a twin sharing basis and include return airfare, airport tax-es as applicable, accommodation, sightseeing, transfers and meals as per the itinerary.(Terms and conditions apply)
June 2011 June 2011 22
Travel Trade Journal
VACATIONS UNLIMITED
Captivating trips by Cox & Kings
Spellboundingholidays by SOTC
Thankful tours by Travel Oytser
The European Experience package for 11 days / 10 nights takes you on the trip of United Kingdom, Belgium, The Netherlands,
France and Switzerland. The cost of the package is `130,000 per person on twin share basis with a discount offer of 45 per cent. The package in-cludes return airfare; accommodation; cost of travel tag / assist with insurance; services of Cox & Kings tour leader or local representative; meals,
transfers, entrance fees, excursions, sightseeing and surface transportation.
The ultimate Canadian Explorer package pro-vides visit to Niagara, Toronto, Ottawa, Quebec, Montreal, Calgary, Banff, Jasper, Whistler, Van-couver and Victoria for 14 days / 13 nights. The cost `176,000 is for per person on twin sharing ba-sis. The package includes return airfare; accom-modation; cost of travel tag / assist with insurance; services of Cox & Kings tour manager; meals, transfers, entrance fees, excursions, sightseeing and surface transportation as mentioned in the itinerary; porterage for one bag per person at all the hotels only.
Amazing Thailand package takes you to Patta-ya, Bangkok and Kanchanaburi for six days / five nights. The package includes return airfare; airport taxes, govt sales tax on air ticket, service tax and all other govt taxes, Thailand visa charges; accom-modation; services of Cox & Kings tour manager; meals, transfers, entrance fees, excursions, sight-seeing and surface transportation as mentioned in the itinerary; overseas travel insurance on a cost of `39,500 per person on twin share basis.
(Terms and conditions apply)
The 13-day Australian Splen-dour package from SOTC of-fers an opportunity to explore
mesmerising destinations like Mel-bourne, Cairns, Tangalooma, Gold Coast and Sydney. The package is valid till September 2011 and is available for `180,481. It includes In-dian lunch at the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground; full-day visit to the spectacular Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves; full-day tour of The Great Ocean Road; guided tour of
the world-famous Sydney Opera House; one night stay at Tangaloo-ma, Australia’s premium island resort with dolphin-feeding and four-wheel drive; stay in five-star luxury at Q1 Resort & Spa-one of the world’s tall-est towers with a panoramic view of the beach and much more.
The 11-day Scenic South African tour ensures you a memorable tour of Shamwari, Knysna, Outshoorn, Cape Town, Sun City and Johan-nesburg. Its includes a two nights stay at Shamwari Game Reserve; Upgrade to five star hotel in Knysna, Cape Town and Sun City; Indian din-ner at hotel in Shamwari, Knysna and
Cape Town; return air-fare, hotel accom-modation,sightseeingand meals. It starts from `138,517per person and is valid till October 2011.
The Orient 10-day long package ensures an unforgettable trip to des-
tinations like Bangkok, Pattaya, Kua-la Lumpur, Genting Highlands and Singapore. Guided city tour and Sa-fari World with Marine Park in Bang-kok, Coral Island and Tiffany Show in Pattaya, guided city tour in Kuala Lumpur, outdoor and indoor theme park in Genting Highlands, guided city tour and Sentosa Island with Un-derwater World, return airfare, hotel accommodation, sightseeing and meals as per itinerary is included in the package. The cost is ̀ 49,375 per person; valid till September 2011.
(Terms and conditions apply)
Courtesy: Kashmira Commissariat Chief Operating Officer, Outbound Division, Kuoni India.
TheGold-en Tri-
angle pack-age offers six nights stay in Zur-ich, Gene-va, Lugano, Luzern, Mt.
Titlis, Lausanne, Montreux, Bern and Geneva. The package is valid from January to December, 2011. The three star stay on twin sharing basis is available for USD$ 837. The price includes swiss rail package ticket in Second Class, two nights in Luzern, Lugano and Lausanne with break-fast and miniature city suggested.
The six nights Oytser of Alps package promises a stay in Zurich, Luzern, Mt. Titlis, Interlaken, Jung-frau, Yash Raj Film Tour, Zermatt, Gornergrat and Geneva. This one also being a January to December
2011 package offers a three star stay on twin sharing basis in USD$ 1178. The price includes Swiss rail pack-age ticket in First Class, two nights in Luzern with breakfast excursion to Mt. Titlis, two nights in Interlaken with breakfast excursion to Jungfrau-Top of Europe and two nights in Zermatt with breakfast Excursion to Gorner-grat.
The honeymoon in Switzerland package is for a duration of seven nights and shall take you to Zurich, Geneva, Luzern, Mt. Pilatus, Bern, Interlaken, Jungfrau, Schilthorn, Ge-neva and Mt. Titlis. The twin sharing three star stay is available for USD$ 1265. The package price includes Swiss rail package ticket in First Class, three nights in Luzern and In-terlaken with breakfast, one night in Zurich with breakfast and excursion to Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Titlis, Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn.
(Terms and conditions apply)
Visit us online at‘www.ttj.co.in’
to know what’s the latest in the travel industry
June 2011 June 2011 24 FLYING HIGH
Travel Trade Journal
The largest airport in India with a footfall of more than 25 million pas-sengers in 2009, the airport was to
be perceived as the ambassador of India at the XIX Commonwealth Games as In-dia prepared to welcome the world to its doors. But IGI, the international ambassa-dor of India, was still awaiting midas touch. Ansgar Sickert, Managing Director, Fraport India details, “The mammoth airport with passenger density running in millions, our task was to manage an airport, which was beyond capacity, and to upgrade build-ings beyond breaking point. To add to the freckles, the master planning was con-densed to minimum time period.” However, the stupendous results were concomitant with quick planning and quicker execution. He further elaborated, “The project of such magnitude ideally requires 60 months but we completed it in 37 months under OMDA time guideline. Considering the reputation-al risk of airport authorities, we ensured that the project was completed within the stipu-lated time frame.” Speaking of the chal-lenges faced during the project, he added, “The scenario was hugely challenging, the shortage of technically qualified work force was the first constraint. Both long term and short term experts were required since very few people were from the aviation industry. So, to find experts was tough.”
There were several key areas of im-provement such has facilities, architec-ture and technological upgradation. Every detail had to comply with OMDA (Op-eration, Management and Development Agreement) – ASQ (Airport Survey Qual-ity) guideline with passenger delight as its priority. Recalling the satisfaction of a job well done at the inauguration of Terminal 1-D, he said, “1-D made us the favour-able lot. According to common agreement
of ASQ, quality and service were the twin objectives that were to be achieved, but considering the time constraint, design and building process had to be activated simultaneously too. As a result of rigorous training and effort, we saw major improve-ments in customer service and infrastruc-ture,” he elaborated.
Sharing his views on the need for an in-frastructure makeover in India, he respond-ed, “India should look at transportation as integral to development. This country has a large deficit of land. Air connectivity can be supplemented with roads; consequent-ly, road infrastructure needs to improve.” In addition to designing and facilitating ser-vices, airline marketing was a significant contribution initiated to systematise mobil-ity at the new terminal and runways. “We brought airline marketing to bring in aware-ness about routes. New departments were created to provide parking spaces for the airplanes. We initiated routes conference cum exhibition for airports and airlines to meet and discuss traffic growth and infra-structure,” he concluded.
Amidst an increasing array of airlines, Air Astana has sculpted
for itself a space where com-fort on board is priority and commitment to service is habit. Maintaining EU EASA 145 standards, being admit-ted to the register of the IATA IOSA is equivalent to sus-taining quality with a fleet of 24 western aircrafts on close to 50 domestic and interna-tional routes.
“The extensive fleets of aircraft across global routes, steady support from GSA and enterprising agents in India have augmented In-dian tourism to Kazakhstan. Indiantouristpotentialto Ka-zakhstanis great,” detailedGam-mampila,adding,“The air-line flies to domes-tic routes such as Almatyand to some of the most fre-quented international desti-nations including Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Baku, Bangkok, Beijing, Bishkek, Dushanbe, Frankfurt, Hannover, Istan-bul, Kuala Lumpur, London, Moscow, Novosibirsk and Seoul.”
With an expansive list of destinations under its com-pass, Air Astana recorded a 15 per cent increase in 2010 passenger traffic compared to 2009 and 2008.
With a sound commit-ment to customer service, Air Astana was recognised
for its high passenger ser-vice standards in interna-tional markets. “It was rated third as the ‘Best Airline of Eastern Europe’ by Skytrax 2010 World Airlines Awards,” he said.
He amplified on the num-ber of new features that have been conducive to on board comfort of Air Astana, in-cluding KCTV and upgraded seats. The seats turn into a lie flat bed with the click of a button. The modish ambi-ance and top of the line ame-nities are synonymous with a ‘feel at home’ experience.
Responding to the fre-quency of flights out of
Delhi, he informed, “Presently, we are operat-ing three weeklyflights out of Delhi and plan to in-crease the frequency to four from win-ter sched-
ule in order to give better connectivity to our valued passengers.”
Highlighting the plans for 2011, he remarked, “We are focused on promoting leisure traffic from India to Kazakhstan. FAM trips were organised in past where people from travel trade and corporate industry were taken to Kazakhstan and we expect more visitors in the coming months.’’
The coming months are promising, for both leisure traffic and for the airline.
Fraport India added the Midas touch to the IGI Airport makeover
Air Astana providing high standard service in international markets
Year 2010, the airplane yawed at its transonic speed at Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 3, the incandescent masterpiece slicing the sun with its superlative beauty. The colossal architecture, equipped with world-class facilities, far from the frazzled face of things in 2008. The comely construction chiselled to perfection with the consulting services of one of the world’s fastest growing infrastructure company – Fraport. In a rendezvous with very polite and cordial Ansgar Sickert, Managing Director, Fraport India, TTJ brings to you the making of a masterpiece.
The first Air Astana Embraer 190 arrived at Almaty International Airport at 1830 hrs on April 30, 2011. Spanning 10 years of excellence (2001 – 2011) seeped with innumerable moments of joy, Chan Gammampila, Regional General Manager, Air Astana, shares with TTJ his version of the decade of splendid success.
NEHA SHARMA
NEHA SHARMA
Ansgar Sickert
Chan Gammampila
June 2011 25
Travel Trade Journal
SPECIAL FOCUS
Travel Trade Journal
Radisson DelhiDelivering the best in hospitalityLocated in close proximity to the Indira Gandhi International Airport, The Radisson Hotel Delhi is a landmark property for not only the business travellers but also for leisure tourists who have a taste for finer things in life.
Radisson Hotel Delhi is a connoisseur’s de-light and a preferred
choice for business and leisure travellers. The hotel has large inventory of rooms which are fine examples of elegance, luxury comfort, and are exclusively designed keeping in mind the needs of
a business guest. The hotel offers an ideal sanctuary to business travellers for con-ducting business, sightsee-
ing and shopping along with the versatile dining experi-ence and recreational facili-ties.
The hotel has 256 beauti-fully appointed guest rooms, including 20 suites and one Presidential Suite. All the rooms are aesthetically designed with rich silk up-
holstery and linen in taste-fully matched colour combi-nations. Contemporary and modern in setting, all rooms
are designed keeping in mind the needs of a business guest. They have individual climate control, bath and shower, colour television, di-rect dial, telephone, voice mail and mini bar, tea and coffee maker, daily newspaper and complimen-tary use of the wi-fi service.
Radis-son Delhi’s F&B outlets are some of the capital’s most talked about eateries. The Great Kabab Fac-tory sizzles with a wide array of kebabs and breads. NYC offers freshly prepared deli-cacies from across the globe in an interactive kitchen set up. R-The Lounge is a perfect venue for business meetings and personal rendezvous and last but not the least, the Savannah Bar offers a fine collection of liquors, wines and spirits.
Considering that people today are extremely health conscious and Spa seems to be the latest buzzword in the hospitality circuits, ‘R – The Spa’ offers a perfect wellness treat to its guests. Spread over an area of 20,000 sq ft at three levels, the spa has many facets that include Day Spa, Ladies Spa and Men’s Spa. R-The
Spa is the gateway to three new levels to Rejuve-
nate, Relax and Replenish. The underlying philosophy of the spa is to have the right blend of Asian traditions and European therapies.
Since the spa is close to the airport, it offers jet-lag packages’ to the world travelers. These packages include private suites for the single and couples, body massages, body scrubs, herbal bath, face treatment, refreshment, steam, sauna and sleep time. The number of the treatment vary accord-ing to the packages.
The Fitness Studio, the city’s most exclusive, of-fers state-of-the-art equip-ment from techno-gym from the latest cardio Series to a comprehensive selection of
strength equip-
ment and free weights. The dedi-
cated fitness counsellors and yoga experts would guide you through a per-sonalized workout regimen, yoga and meditation ses-sions and nutrition classes to restore the balance of mind and body.
Experience bliss at the Spa Salon with a range of Caviar treatments for skin contouring and exotic beauty services making a perfect treat for your skin, hair, hand and feet care.
Radisson Hotel Delhi as-sures you of the finest service in the hospitality industry, delivered with a “Yes I can!” attitude by their enthusias-tic team. Subscribing to this motto Radisson Hotel Delhi looks all set to capitalise on the current boom in the hos-pitality industry.(Visit www.radisson.com/newdelhiin
for more details)
June 2011 June 2011 26
Travel Trade Journal
EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
Although the official audited fig-ures will not be available until next month, initial estimates
for the 2011 Arabian Travel Market (ATM) make impressive reading. Par-ticipant numbers for 2011 were up more than 10 per cent year-on-year at 24,300, increasing from 21,900 in 2010. While more than 2,200 exhib-iting companies comprised a total exhibition net floor space of almost 20,000 square metres.
“Arabian Travel Market is an ef-fective barometer for the health of the regional travel and tourism sector. Notwithstanding our hugely popular seminar and conference programme, dedicated cruise and medical pavilions, the numbers and feedback comments echo the un-derlying confidence throughout the industry and the wave of optimism going forward,” said Mark Walsh, Group Exhibition Director, Reed Travel Exhibitions, organiser of Ara-bian Travel Market 2011.
ATM’s geographical break-down of attendees shows how the
event reflects the region’s appeal for international travel and tourism, not only those within the GCC but also the rest of the world. Visitors from destinations outside the Gulf (18 per cent) showed a moderate increase on 2010 figures, up three per cent on last year – particularly impressive given the ongoing challenges faced in some countries within the Middle East.
“India is one of the top key source markets for DTCM for inbound trav-ellers. The Indian market responded very well to the ATM in terms of the travel trade community. We received
good positive response
from the number of members of the Indian travel community, who visited Dubai. Preliminary figures show us that over 120 Indian travel agents and tour operators travelled to Dubai for the ATM in co-operation with our office for assistance with regards to information and so on. This is a very healthy trend because it was much larger than the previous year. This is a reflection that now that the In-dian travel trade community is very keen to promote Dubai as a year-round destination with the focus on the Dubai shopping festival and the kids-go-free campaign that is cur-rently running in Dubai. The ATM
has been very successful in secur-ing a larger level of response from the Indian travel trade community. Overall, the ATM has been also suc-cessful in showcasing to the Indian travel trade community what Dubai has on offer in the current year with new attractions, new properties and the new infrastructure that has been developed. Judging by the initial re-sponse that has come through and what we have seen on ground at the ATM, the response has been tremen-dous on a global level too,” said Carl Vaz, Director, Dubai Representative Office - India.
Meanwhile, India Tourism Dubai showcased its multitude of attrac-tions within India at the ATM 2011. At the show, India Tourism Dubai provided a glimpse of the newer destinations as also the countless cultural, spiritual and travel experi-ences that India offers. Foreign tour-ist arrivals into India have witnessed a steady increase over the years, touching 5.58 million in 2010, a spurt of a whopping 9.3 per cent over 5.1 million tourist arrivals in 2009. One of the highlights at this year’s ‘Incred-ible India’ showcase at ATM was the focus on the medical tourism poten-
ATM 2011 registered overall increase despite low participation from India
It is one of the must-attend shows for the Indian travel fraternity and the fact that many Indian travel companies, be it hoteliers, agents, states or airlines, decided to give it a miss this year, shows that Dubai is still on its recovery path and the recent political unrest in the various parts of Middle East could be the culprit too. However, all was not as bad. The local exhibitors and visitors found the show
much useful and the India Tourism press conference was much-talked about too for bringing to light the wellness and medical side of Indian tourism.PRIYANKA SAXENA & KAVYA CHAWLA
Deepak DahiyaCarl Vaz
travel trade community. We received good positive response
travel trade community. We received good positive response
Travel Trade JournalTravel Trade Journal
June 2011 27
Travel Trade Journal
EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
tial in the country. Talking about the scope for medical and health tour-ism in India, Vikas Rustagi, Regional Director (West Asia and Africa) at India Tourism Dubai, said, “India is a perfect destination for medical tourism that combines health treat-ment with visits to some of the most alluring and awe-inspiring places in the world. A growing number of tour-ists are flocking in large numbers because of the superlative medical care, equipments and facilities that India offers. This year at ATM, we would like to focus on these aspects that make India the must-go desti-nation - more so, since we have a dedicated medical tourism pavilion at ATM 2011.”
Elaborating further he said, “The cost of medical services in India is almost 30 per cent lower to that in Western countries and the most cost effective in the entire South East Asia. Indian hospitals excel in car-diology and cardiothoracic surgery, joint replacements, transplants, cos-metic treatments, dental care, or-thopaedic surgery and much more. All medical treatments and inves-tigations are done using the latest, technologically advanced diagnos-
tic equipments. The cost of infertility treatments in India is almost 1/4th of that in developed nations. You name it and we offer the best and the most cost effective option,” adding, “ATM is one of the most sought af-ter events for the travel and tourism industry worldwide, and we need to educate the visitors and delegates on the tourism potential in India. Our participation is aimed at building awareness about incredible India, attract new tourists into the country and retain more travellers from the past with newer attractions and tour-ism destinations.”
Sharing his viewpoint on the
show this year, Deepak Dahiya, Di-rector – Sales and Marketing, Gold Swiss-Belhotel Dubai, said, “All put together, we believe we have had a good show at ATM this year. The timing of the show in May beginning serves as a good reminder to the travel trade community and gives an opportunity to drive for enhanced support over the lean summer months by pushing out summer tac-tical promotions. Strategically, this period is also crucial to get FIT rate agreements in place, enabling over-seas tour operators to feature and sell their product in the next season brochures.”
For Lama Tours too, the show this year showed impressive growth. “Having enjoyed successful ATM ex-hibitions in the past, Arabian Travel Market remains to be the biggest travel and tourism event for Lama Tours. The number of visitors at our stand was particularly impressive this year. We met a lot of potential business contacts from many coun-tries around the globe and have forged alliances and contracts dur-ing the exhibition itself,” said Kul-want Singh, Managing Director, Lama Tours.
The GCC countries are impor-tant markets for Jet Airways with flights connecting 10 cities in the Gulf to various points in India and beyond. Dubai in particular oper-ates six flights a day to India, with connections across the globe, espe-cially to the Far-East. “Yes, the ATM 2011 was indeed very fruitful for Jet Airways, considering the huge foot-fall at our stand. The show provides great opportunities to interact and communicate with our trade part-ners from across the region within a span of three days,” said Shakir Kantawala, General Manager, Dubai and Northern Emirates, Jet Airways.
ATM 2011 registered overall increase despite low participation from India
It is one of the must-attend shows for the Indian travel fraternity and the fact that many Indian travel companies, be it hoteliers, agents, states or airlines, decided to give it a miss this year, shows that Dubai is still on its recovery path and the recent political unrest in the various parts of Middle East could be the culprit too. However, all was not as bad. The local exhibitors and visitors found the show
much useful and the India Tourism press conference was much-talked about too for bringing to light the wellness and medical side of Indian tourism.
Travel Trade JournalTravel Trade Journal
Shakir KantawalaKulwant Singh
June 2011 June 2011 28
Travel Trade Journal
FLYING HIGH
First flight experience is always memorable, “I will never forget the Up-
per Class experience across the Atlantic for the first time,” recalls a nostalgic Michael, adding, “With over 15 years in Virgin Atlantic airlines; inno-vation and consistently high standards of customer ser-vice embellished with a ‘Vir-gin flair’ induce passengers to fly with us every time.’’
Virgin Atlantic’s Indian air traffic, specifically Delhi-Lon-don route, remains a pivotal one. “We see further potential to grow our traffic on connect-ing services from London. In addition to strong market share to the US, and with 11 years on Delhi-London route, we continue to be one of the market share leaders on the latter. We continue to evolve our food and drinks menu and entertainment to suit the Indian preferences,” he elu-cidated.
2010 was full of felicita-tions as the airlines complet-ed 10 years on the route. “We brought a larger A340-600 aircraft back on the route to reflect the pick-up in demand and the encouraging pas-senger response. Between (January - April) our capac-ity was up by about 35 per cent versus last year (same period) and passengers up by near 40 per cent,” he re-marked enthusiastically.
2011 promises to multi-ply passenger delight with special fares in all cabins of London and New York, new baggage allowances to Lon-don with two bags of 23 kgs each in Economy and up to three bags of 23 kgs each in Premium Economy.
The airline looks forward to the A340-600 in October,
around the time of the Grand Prix in Delhi. “This year will also see the launch of our global trade website: ‘vsflyin-ghub’ that will be an engaging and exciting platform for our
travel agents,” he informed.The Virgin Atlantic Up-
per Class is a class apart with premium facilities such as Private Security Channel at Heathrow, complimentary
limo pick and drop, world class lounge, on-board bar and the fully flat bed. “We will soon come up with our student campaign to interest more students to fly the fun
and cool airline that suits their personality,” he remarked cheerfully. All in all, comfort, pleasure and luxury welcome you to experience the ‘Virgin flair’ on board Virgin Atlantic.
Virgin Atlantic: Delivering a memorable flying experienceFlying is not merely oscillating between destinations but an experience between them; Virgin flair is one such experience on board Virgin Atlantic Airways. Michael Burke, General Manager, Virgin Atlantic – India, shares with TTJ, the comfort promised and offered aboard and his plans for taking the airline to new heights.NEHA SHARMA
Michael Burke
Travel Trade Journal
June 2011 29SPECIAL FOCUS
The ambitious growth plan of
Accor’s broad portfolio of hotel brands - Sofi-tel, Pullman, MGal-
lery, Novotel, Mercure, ibis, all seasons, Formule1 and
its related activities, Thala-ssa sea & spa and Lenôtre - provide an extensive offer from luxury to budget. With 145,000 employees world-wide, the group offers to its clients and partners nearly 45 years of know-how and
expertise. India is at the fore-front of Accor’s expansion strategy by innovation, pas-sion and commitment. Ac-cor currently operates nine hotels and two convention centres throughout India, with a vision of becoming the largest hotel operator in the country with a target network of 90 hotels by 2015.
As the largest hotel op-erator worldwide, Accor is pursuing and speeding up the increase in the number of its hotel rooms, its target be-ing to add between 35,000 and 40,000 rooms per year on average. It therefore aims to achieve two ambitions by 2015: to become the lead-ing European franchise and to be on the podium as one
of the world’s three leading hotel companies.
With its extensive portfo-lio of complementary and at-tractive brands, its 4,100 ho-tels and 145,000 employees in 90 countries, Accor, which is progressively reducing its ownership of hotel buildings, is also making its mark as a provider of high added value services to its partners.
Created in October 2008, the Accor Foundation is testi-mony to the Accor group’s desire to commit and support its staff across the world in their socially-responsible ac-tions. Its ambition is to link cultures and to provide support for the development of individuals and their integration into the community.
In India, the Accor Foundation supports the NGO Dast-kar and the NGO Nireekshana.
It has been running the highly successful NATURE ba-zaars that have become a major source of marketing for artisan groups. Having helped groups of leather and fibre crafts market their products for some years. Dastkar felt the need for rejuvenating their product range to enhance the market potential and a contemporary appeal. The leather product development and skill up-gradation workshop are a part of Dastkar’s initiative to provide a fresh flow of ideas to often neglected traditional craft skills. Accor is an ideal partner in taking this forward. These workshops with par-ticipating crafts people results in the form of contemporary product development with traditional craft skills.
VISION FOR INDIAJean-Michel Casse, Senior Vice-President, Operations India, Accor, shares his plans and vision for the India market.
The hotel industry in India is going through an interest-ing phase. The growing improving economic setting
and demand for more hotel rooms across categories is influencing international hotel chains. One of the major reasons for the increase in demand for hotel rooms in the country is the boom in the overall economy and high growth in sectors like information technology, telecom, retail and real estate. Rising stock market and new busi-ness opportunities are also attracting several foreign in-vestors and international corporate travellers to look for business opportunities in the country.
The Government’s move to declare hotel and tour-ism industry as a high priority sector with a provision for 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) has also provided a further impetus in attracting investments in to this industry.
Accor is optimistic about its prospects for India. Al-most seven years ago we made a commitment to launch and grow our business in India to include Accor’s core brands. We are well on our way to achieving this ambi-tion. Our commitment to India is strong and we will con-tinue to focus on aggressively building both the size and spread of our network, across India over the next few years.
Accor brands have one of the largest committed de-velopment pipelines of any global hotel chain in India. We continue to be excited about the opportunities for growth in India. Since entering India in 2004, nine hotels representing approx 1600 rooms have opened and a further 50 hotels with over 10,000 rooms are committed, many of which have commenced construction. Between now and the end of the 2012, 21 hotels will open adding to Accor’s existing Indian hotel network.
Accor, the world’s leading hotel operator and market leader in Europe is present in 90 countries with 4,100 hotels and close to 500,000 rooms. Just like many others, for Accor too, India is an important market in its expansion strategy. The brand currently operates nine hotels and two convention centres throughout India, with a vision of becoming the largest hotel operator in the country with a target network of 90 hotels by 2015.
in India
Travel Trade Journal
June 2011 June 2011 30 SPECIAL FOCUS
SOFITEL
Sofitel is the only French luxury hotel brand with a presence on five continents with 130 addresses, in
almost 40 countries and more than 30,000 rooms. Sofitel offers contemporary hotels and resorts, which are today more suited to the demanding and versatile consumers’ expectations. Whether situated in the heart of a major city like Paris, London, New York or Beijing, or nestled away in a country landscape in Morocco, Egypt, Fiji Is-lands or Thailand, each Sofitel property offers a genuine experience of the French “art de vivre”.
The latest addition to the brand will be the Sofitel Mumbai BKC, opening in 2011.
NOVOTEL
Novotel offers nearly 400 hotels and resorts located in the heart of major international cities, business
districts and tourist destinations in 58 countries. Through a consistent top quality offer, Novotel contributes to the well-being of business and leisure travellers alike: spa-cious rooms with flexible features adapted to both work and relaxation, a balanced choice of food and beverag-es available around the clock, meeting rooms, friendly, attentive staff, children’s play areas, fitness centres and places to relax. Novotel also committed very early on to sustainable development by participating in the Green Globe environmental certification program.
The year 2011 will see the opening of the Novotel Bangalore Techpark followed by the Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach.
IBIS
ibis, the worldwide economy hotel brand of the Accor Group, offers consistent quality accommodation and
services in all its hotels, for the best local value: a well-designed and fully-equipped en-suite bedroom, major hotel services available 24/7 and a wide choice of onsite food and beverage options. Established in 1974, ibis is the European leader and one of the first economy hotel chains in the world, with more than 97,000 rooms and 861 hotels in 45 countries.
2011 is slated as the year of ibis, with six hotels opening across India in key cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Jaipur and Nasik.
PULLMAN
Pullman is Accor’s upscale hotel brand designed with the requirements of business women and men in
mind. Located in main regional and international cities, Pullman hotels provide an extensive range of tailored services, access to groundbreaking technologies, and “Co-Meeting”, a new approach to organising meetings, seminars and high-end incentives. At Pullman hotels, business travellers can choose between being indepen-dent or choosing help from our staff available round the clock.
The first one to open in India will be the Pullman Gurgaon Central Park in mid 2011. Following this will be the opening of Pullman in Lavasa, Delhi International Airport and Bengaluru.
MGALLERY
MGallery is a collection of upscale hotels with re-markable personalities, which will appeal to indi-
vidual travellers seeking distinctive services or looking for a place with a soul. Located in city centres and tourist hotspots, each hotel in the collection boasts of a distinc-tive environment and offers guests an authentic experi-ence based on a philosophy of pleasure.
Launched in September 2008 by Accor, the collection now cov-ers five continents and will grow to over 40 establishments by the end of 2011.
Accor’sbroad portfolio of hotel brands
Travel Trade Journal
June 2011 31SPECIAL FOCUS
MERCURE
For more than 35 years, within the Accor Group, Mercure has exemplified expert hospitality and
personalised service. Operating in more than 50 countries around the world, Mercure boasts of ho-tels with distinctive personalities carefully preserved through the type of services offered and the décor. The hotel managers and staff of the 700 Mercure hotels are hospitality professionals. Attentive and available, they are ready to listen and make sure their guests enjoy a stay full of genuine moments of pleasure and relaxation in a truly warm and com-fortable setting.
Mercure provides its partners with a flexible and adaptable brand allowing fast development and easy takeover of ex-isting hotels, yet visible and strong for its customers.
FORMULE1
Formule1 is destined to become the benchmark for budget hotels in India,
following the opening of the first two hotels in Pune and Noida in the fourth quarter of this year. Formule1 offers comfortable and affordable accommodation and in India will deploy the brands recently developed new guest room concept. This contemporary, award winning and efficient guest room de-sign promotes well being in a space that is flexible and cosy. Ten Formule1 sites have been secured throughout the country today.
Formule1 will be introduced in India by Novem-ber 2011 in the two cities of Pune, Hinjewadi and Greater Noida.
A|CLUB
A|Club is Accor’s loyalty program launched on September 15, 2008.
This is a worldwide program with 2000 hotels in 90 countries. It is a multi-brand, free loyalty program that is entirely web-based. The program is partnered with entities like Club Médi-terranée, Europcar, Lenôtre, Institut Pasteur and 12 major airlines like Air France KLM, British Airways, Delta Air-lines, Qantas, the Miles & More loyalty program.
The points earned never expire, provided that the member spends at least one night a year in a participating hotel.
June 2011 June 2011 32
Travel Trade Journal
SPECIAL FOCUS
Accor India network by end of 2011:
NOVOTELNovotel Hyderabad Airport
Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre
Today in India, Accor operates nine hotels, the latest of which is ibis Mumbai Airport. Between now and the end of 2012, Accor will open 21 additional hotels taking the network to 30 hotels by this time. Accor has commitments for 62 hotels in India and remains on track to achieve its previously announced ambition of 90 hotels in the country by 2015.
June 2011 June 2011 34
Travel Trade Journal
GROWING OUTBOUND
It is for all to see and for the Thai-land Tourism team to applause that in a span of not more than
three years, Thailand has perhaps become one of the most favourite destinations for Indian outbound. In the year 2010, some 800,000 Indians visited Thailand, which has been the highest number so far. And keeping the popularity of the destination in mind, TAT is expecting to touch a fig-ure of 1 million this year.
“Though Malaysia, China, Japan, Europe continue to be important mar-kets for Thailand, India too is not far behind. It figures in the top 10 most important markets for us. Thailand has a lot to offer to the Indian mar-ket. Last year, over 100 Indian wed-ding took place in Thailand, while this year, in a mere span of three months, the destination has already witnessed 36 weddings from North India alone,” said the Deputy Governor, who then went on to praise the TAT New Delhi office for their concerted efforts in bringing out this increase in tourist
figures from India.Instrumental in bringing about
this change, Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, Director, TAT New Delhi Of-fice said, “It has been under the able guidance of the Deputy Governor that TAT managed to open offices in Mumbai, Jakarta and Ho Chi Min in last few years. Though the length of an average Indian tourist has not in-creased over the years, the number of repeat travellers surely have (over 60 per cent of total visitors are repeat visitors). With 235 flights a week be-tween India and Thailand, the Indian traveller is surely spoilt for choice and can definitely find a seat within his budget at any given point in time. One of the first routes that IndiGo will operate once it goes international this year is going to be Thailand. This just goes on to prove the popularity of the destination in the Indian market.”
The objective this year is to pro-mote “cosmetic surgeries” in Thai-land. “We have a beauty consortium that has come out with some special
offers for the India market, which we will be selling to them through our agents in India. Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai have great hospital facili-ties and successful surgeries at af-fordable costs can be enjoyed here,” said Pinki Arora, Marketing Repre-sentative – North and East India, Bangladesh, Bhutan & Nepal, TAT.
TAT is contemplating at opening a office in Chennai, considering the demand from the region. Meanwhile, plans are also afoot to host a series of roadshow this year (is hosting one in Jaipur this July) comprising 20-30 private participants from Thailand who have keen interest in the India market.
Helena Fernandes, Deputy Director, MGTO (Macau Gov-
ernment Tourism Organisa-tion) was glad to share the statistics of fun and frolic at Macau, which indicated that Macau received close to 170,000 Indian visitors in 2010, representing a signifi-cant growth of 57 per cent, compared to the previous year. From a footfall of 5000 Indian tourists in 2002 to 170,000 confirms the ritzy pulchritude of Macau. As for the target for this year, she
is hopeful of witnessing a 15 per cent growth.
The mart also show-cased new hotels and ad-venture spots in Macau, further perking up the pul-sating island. A 16 minute helicopter ride from Hong Kong, Macau is also easily accessible to different parts of Asia through direct or connecting flights.
With the advent of luxu-rious hotels such as Grand Hyatt with an accommoda-tion capacity of 1400 rooms, the hotel promises a com-
fortable space to unwind. The Westin Resort with an exclusive golf course is three cheers for the sporty spirits. Helena, in her endeavour to balance the 66 per cent male
and 34 per cent female tour-ist inflow added, “The new-est attraction – Panda Pavil-ion will attract children to the one thing you must watch in Macau – the playful visual
delight of the world’s rarest species.”
Declared as a world heri-tage centre by UNESCO in 2005, Macau is an experi-ence waiting to be etched in the memory of every pro-spective visitor. Being visa free for Indians, magnificent Macau sure has several roads to Eldorado with its hidden treasures of culture, cuisine and comfort. As the twilight touched the horizon somewhere in west, the mind was heading north because that’s where Macau is.
Thailand Tourism setting records in Indian arrivals to Thailand
Magnificent Macau unfolds its splendour at the Mini Mart
When it comes to breaking records, Thailand is becoming pretty good at it. In the month of December alone, in the year 2010, around one lakh Indians visited Thailand, which was the highest, recorded ever. In India to applaud the efforts of the TAT New Delhi team, Prakit Piriyakiet, Deputy Governor – Marketing Communications, Tourism Authority of Thailand, shared his views and plans to further make Thailand more attractive to the Indians.
The recently concluded Macau Mini Mart was organised with an aim to enhance the knowledge of Indian travel agents on Macau. The mart provided a platform to Macau and Indian travel trade to fortify the existing trade relations, initiate new business relations through increased networking with senior representatives from Macau hotels and tour operators and further expand its share in the Indian outbound market.
PRIYANKA SAXENA
NEHA SHARMA
The TAT Deputy Governor (Centre) along with members from TAT New Delhi & Bangkok Office
The Macau delegation at the Mini Mart
June 2011 June 2011 36
Travel Trade Journal
THE BIG FIGHT
It was sometime in the year 2005 that MakeMyTrip made its humble entry in the Indian online market and soon thereafter many other online booking sites joined the bandwagon. Before travel fraternity could come up with a defence plan, people labelled travel agents “redundant” and the trophy of “future of travel bookings” was handed over to the online booking portals. However, six years down the lane, the agent is not as redundant as people thought he would be, and the online portals too, though doing well, still have a considerable distance to cover to become the leaders in booking. TTJ chats up with online portals and agents both to get hindsight of the mind of an average Indian traveller and his “booking” preferences.
Are portals and agents ready to share the tourism pie?
They might not exactly be shouting from roof tops stating their claim
as the preferred choice of the Indian traveller, but the
tussle between the online portals and travel agents has been brewing for many years now. While the online companies state that the faith of the Indian tourist in the online booking forum is fast increasing also given the fact that the medium allows him a wide variety of options to choose from, the agent, claims that the Indian popu-lous, or atleast a major chunk of it, lives in areas that have no clue what an internet is or for that matter, are sceptical of going ahead with a deal-ing that doesn’t have a face to it and just a web address. We present before you both sides of the coin.
As the first and only com-prehensive online travel site with real time booking for flights, hotels, holidays and cars, MakeMyTrip.com her-
alded a revolution in the way travel was bought in India. “Today MakeMyTrip contin-ues to lead the market with innovative products and ser-vices. The response to our portal has been overwhelm-ing with over 3.5 million visi-tors a month. MakeMyTrip is viewed as a one-stop shop for all travel and holiday based needs,” says Deep Kalra, Founder and CEO - MakeMyTrip, adding, “Online travel transaction is becom-ing a norm today. Success of IRCTC and portals like us is an indication on the amount of faith people have. We at our end ensure that faith is sustained by ensuring se-
cure transaction platforms. Recently MakeMyTrip has been validated compliant with the Payment Card In-dustry Data Security Stan-
dard (PCI DSS). With this certification MakeMyTrip has become the only travel por-tal in India to receive compli-ance for its online transac-tions. This move comes in light of various hacking and fraudulent practices emerg-ing over online transactions across various websites. The growth of the mobile platform has necessitated introduction of more secure measures of payments. The concept and usage of One Time Password (OTP) is in-creasingly becoming popu-lar. Though conservative and sceptical in nature, Indi-ans are surely warming up to online transactions and pay-
ments thereon.”“When we launched Ar-
zoo.com, the number of bookings for domestic air-lines was just 15 per cent
but now this has jumped up to about 70 per cent in just four years. In this, the web-sites of the domestic airlines is also included. Domestic airline booking is one prod-uct where the personal in-volvement of the agent does not matter much. For people packages, for example, while going for a 10-day or 15-day tour, is where the interaction with the call centre execu-tive is important. People still value that. Here, the growth rate for online booking is still not as high as for the other products. That is where the travel consultant hand holds the customers for suggest-ing places of interest and
takes care of the likes and dislikes of the customers. Package tour is one area where the Indian market has not matured as far as online
booking is concerned,” says Amal Purandare, Head India Operations, Arzoo.com.
According to Anil Kalsi, Chairman North India - TAFI in a level playing field, the brick and mortar travel agents have their own niche; however, it is the undercut-ting of the published fares on the net that creates the anomaly. “The airlines’ deci-sion to offer discounts and lower fares on the net is the major deterrent and is com-pletely unacceptable. The income tax rule of scrutiny of income tax returns with credit card spends of over two lakh in a financial year is a huge deterrent. In all, it
PRIYANKA SAXENA
“There is a market for both portals and traditional agents, though I see a lot of shift of point to point ticketing to online portals and of those with short-haul jour-neys. But the tradi-tional agents’ market has its own set of clients.”
JYOTI MAYALTAAI
“Online portals have a very bright future in India. The number of internet users is grow-ing and this has led to a growth in people booking online. While earlier people used to be skeptical of on-line transactions, the situation today has changed.”
NEELU SINGHEzeego1.com
“We are losing busi-ness every day to online companies. Their focus so far was ticketing and especially domestic ticketing, but they have now launched their full attention to hotel booking busi-ness and holiday packages also.”DEEPAK NARULA
Aman Travels
“Domestic airline booking is one product where the personal in-volvement of an agent does not matter much. For people packages, for example, while go-ing for a 10-day or 15-day tour, is where the interaction with the call centre executive is important.”AMAL PURANDARE
Arzoo.com
June 2011 37
Travel Trade Journal
THE BIG FIGHT
It was sometime in the year 2005 that MakeMyTrip made its humble entry in the Indian online market and soon thereafter many other online booking sites joined the bandwagon. Before travel fraternity could come up with a defence plan, people labelled travel agents “redundant” and the trophy of “future of travel bookings” was handed over to the online booking portals. However, six years down the lane, the agent is not as redundant as people thought he would be, and the online portals too, though doing well, still have a considerable distance to cover to become the leaders in booking. TTJ chats up with online portals and agents both to get hindsight of the mind of an average Indian traveller and his “booking” preferences.
re portals and agents ready to share the tourism pie?
is the disparity in fares that is the big issue since lower fare availability on the web-site dents the credibility of the travel agents. The big question in the mind of any customer is – which is the better fare, airline fare, the
CRS fare, or the web fare?” he said.
Ashwin Narayanan, Chief Operating Officer, Travel Tours Group doesn’t strictly believe that the fear of online transaction is the only deter-rent stopping a traveller from booking online. “There are different kinds of customers and while some of them are apprehensive of putting their card details online, I believe that number is reducing as we speak. The one’s that are apprehensive are skepti-cal for many reasons which could either be a bad experi-ence in the past or probably stories they have heard from others. The fact is that the
comfort and assurance they get from being able to call their travel agent when they need help for a ticket re-is-sue, a date change, recon-firm their seat preference etc is a huge value addition and cannot be replaced by a call
centre that works 9 to 5 and often cannot assist a client with his request,” he said.
However, for Ezeego1.com, the response from the market has been “fantastic”. “We currently do more than 10,000 air bookings every day and we have introduced a slew of products in the In-dian market. Online portals have a very bright future in India. The number of inter-net users is growing and this has led to a growth in people booking online. While earlier people used to be skeptical of online transactions, the situation today has changed. People do not mind swiping their card for large transac-
tions as well,” says Neelu Singh.
Agreeing that the online portals are a threat to the agents’ community, Deepak Narula, Managing Director, Aman Travels Limited says that the reach of online por-
tal to all segments and cit-ies, both large and small, is a cause of worry. “We are losing business every day to online companies. Their fo-cus so far was ticketing and especially domestic ticket-ing, but they have launched their full attention to hotel booking business and holi-day packages. Since online portals are able to generate large numbers, they are able to get better deals with sup-pliers too. But all said and done, small and medium companies can survive too, but they will have to be high-ly service oriented and com-petitive too,” he feels.
Contrary to Narula’s view-
point, Vijay Thakur, Presi-dent, IATO, feels that online travel agents are no threat for they can never match the “personalised service” that a traditional agent offers. “Tra-ditional tour operators/ travel agents are still dominating
players of travel distribution business especially due to their long experience and of-fering personalised and cus-tomised service. This brings them in dominating position in the market. They also can help the clients in critical juncture, by their physical presence and thus create confidence. They are just a call away from their clients. OTA can be good for one single booking or air ticket. But for complete itinerary with multiple destinations OTA’s are not a good option and often not cheap as they are thought to be. They may be costlier than offline oper-ators. So OTA’s are no threat
to traditional travel opera-tors. There is no substitute for ‘human interaction’. Hu-man touch is must in travel business where lots of clari-fications are needed across the table,” he says.
While agreeing that the
big portion of Indian travel market still prefers to route their booking through the traditional agent channel, Sanjay Bhasin, TravelCha-Cha feels that the dynamics of market are fast changing. “Tourism industry is a dy-namic industry which keeps on changing with the pace of time. Today, airlines and hotel are booming industries because of the presence of online travel portal. As far as my opinion is concerned, India has to reap a lot and a number of new services have to be incorporated into existing segment of online travel portal to make Incred-ible India a must see place
“The concept and usage of One Time Password (OTP) is increasingly be-coming popular. Though conserva-tive and sceptical in nature, Indians are surely warming up to online transac-tions and payments thereon.”
DEEP KALRAMakeMyTrip
“It is the disparity in fares that is the big issue since lower fare availability on the website dents the credibility of the travel agents. The big ques-tion in the mind of any customer is – which is the better fare - airline fare, the CRS fare, or the web fare?”
ANIL KALSITAFI
“Traditional tour op-erators / travel agents are still dominating players of travel dis-tribution business, especially due to their long experience and offering personalised and customised ser-vice. This brings them in dominating position in the market.”
VIJAY THAKURIATO
“Cleartrip is work-ing hard to make the online user experi-ence as delightful as ever. Our state-of-the-art booking en-gine makes sure that we have the right availability with the right pricing avail-able for our custom-ers.”TARIQUE KAHTRI
ClearTrip
June 2011 June 2011 38
among the selected destina-tions of the world.”
Tarique Kahtri, Sr. VP - Business Development ClearTrip feels that the dis-cussion on the apprehen-sion of Indian public to go for online booking is a “mis-conception” as all its trans-actions take place online. “With the introduction of VbV authentication, online fraud has reduced tremendously. According to the reports by PhocusWright almost 80 per cent of domestic air tickets sold will be online. So the fact that more and more people are transacting on-line clearly shows that the apprehensions are going away. Also with steps taken by RBI to ensure fraudulent
transactions are controlled, it has given a big boost to the confidence levels amongst people to transact online. It is no longer credit cards that contribute to a transaction. We now offer Debit Cards, Net Banking and Cash Cards. This ensures that cus-tomers have ample choices to pay on our site,” he says, adding, “Cleartrip is working hard to make the online user experience as delightful as ever. Our state-of-the-art booking engine makes sure that we have the right avail-ability with the right pricing available to our customers. We have also developed a very robust and easy to use mobile product. With one of the highest Mobile Density
(200 per cent) globally and over 20 per cent using 3G services, we feel our mobile offering will make bookings much easier.”
Towing the middle path, Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson, TAAI – Northern Region, feels that the market is big enough for the both the on-line and offline agents to survive amicably. “There is a market for both portals and the traditional agents, though I see a lot of shift of point to point ticketing to on-line portals and also of those with short-haul journeys and definite travel plans who do not expect a change. But the traditional agents mar-ket has its own set of clients. A corporate who looks at
24hrs service, a face to dis-cuss with, an agent to get his passport/visas/ insurance and other auxiliary services done. Clients always feel comfortable when they are sitting across with an agent and discussing their plans and also asking for advice and inputs on their travel. In our country we still have sys-tems where an agent works hard for his passenger to get him a booking confirmed in the lowest fare a portal will offer whatever is availably there and then,” she says.
Lastly, Sudhir Patil, Direc-tor - Kesari Tours Pvt. Ltd. feels that the concept of on-line booking is more popular with the younger clientele who are fine with the idea of
swapping their card online, while the older generation still prefers the good old trusted travel agent. “The on-line portals are not a threat to travel agents as the market is expanding and I feel that both will co-exist. The online portal, through their con-stant and attractive advertis-ing reaches the masses and tempts the clients to take holiday and hence we feel that holiday market is ex-panding on all levels. Travel agents can encash this op-portunity by offering the per-sonalised service that he is known for. Sometime, even the online portals use travel agents’ distribution chan-nel,” he says.
If figures are to be believed, al-most 20 million people travel by
rail every day in India, while two per cent of the total Indian population undertakes airplane journey. Which means, there lies a HUGE potential in terms of tapping the travel market in India under various segments – upgrading the rail travel to air trav-el, wooing road travel people to rail travel and inviting more people to air as well as rail travel. The holis-tic idea is that if the travel segment grows on all levels, there is a good share of pie for the online as well as offline agents, given the dynamic
demographics of the Indian market. The corporates, young and tech savvy or even families who have a one-stop holiday plan with not much scope for change will prefer going the online way, while the older cau-tious lot, who are planning to under-take a tour comprising a bunch of destinations with likelihood of shift in bookings and date will always prefer walking into an agent’s office and booking an itinerary for them-selves. So, in the end, we can sim-ply say that may the travel industry in India boom and we all, shall flour-ish with it!
VIEWPOINT
THE BIG FIGHT
Travel Trade Journal
“The comfort and as-surance that a traveller gets from being able to call his travel agent when he needs help for a ticket re-issue, a date change, reconfirm their seat preference etc. is a huge value addition and cannot be replaced by a call centre.”
ASHWINNARAYANAN
Travel Tours Group
“The online portals are not a threat to travel agents as the market is expanding and I feel that both will co-exist. The on-line portals, through their constant and attractive advertising reach the masses and tempts the clients to take holiday.”
SUDHIR PATILKesari Tours
“India has to reap a lot and a number of new services have to be incorpo-rated into existing segment of online travel portal to make Incredible In-dia a must see place among the selected destinations of the world.”
SANJAY BHASINTravelChaCha
SATTAL LITERALLY MEANSSEVEN LAKES
A 15 acres Campsite in Nainital District with camping and luxury tents provide opportunities to young children to live
independently, enjoy camp life and experience the varied flaura and fauna.
Its pristine beauty lends itself to envi-ronment and wildlife study.
We have fun filled activities lined up in the premises itself.
LIFESTYLE CAMPING• Camping is to help build self confidence, self determi-
nation and team spirit. Luxury tents with first class mod-ern facilities that can accommodate up to 32 guests.
• Camping tents can accommodate up to 80 campers.• Enjoy the lip smacking taste of Indian, Mughlai, Chi-
nese and Continental cuisines.• Ample parking place.
Head office: New Delhi YMCA, Jai Singh Road, New Delhi 110001Tel: 011-43644044 Mob: 9313697411 Fax: 23746032, Website: www.newdelhiymca.org
YMCA Campsite cum Programme Centre (A Division of New delhi YMCA)Kohinur, Mehragaon , Sattal-Nainital (Dt.), UttarakhandPh.: 0091-5942-247288, e-mail: [email protected]
THE MESMERIZINGHILL STATION
THE MESMERIZINGTHE MESMERIZING
June 2011 June 2011 40
Travel Trade Journal
APPOINTMENTS
welcomeaboard
Having been with ITC hotels for more than
28 years, Aragula Anand Rao has been appointed
as the General Manager of ITC Maurya, New Delhi. Highly recognised as a pioneer in areas of service excellence, posi-tioning, training and de-velopment and revenue management, he had the honour of opening ITC Gardenia in 2009. A science degree gradu-ate, Rao completed his Diploma in Hotel Man-agement, followed by a Master’s Degree in Hos-pitality Management from Cornell University, Paris, France.
rrRajiv Duggal, the
newly appointed
Managing Director of
Kuoni India is a well
known travel industry
veteran. Rajiv has been
with Kuoni India from
2001 to 2005 spend-
ing the last year as
the Sr. Vice President
of the Tour Operating
Division after which
he was appointed as
the CEO India and
South East Asia of
Destinations of the
World Pvt. Ltd. until
2008.
Deepak Manocha joins JW Marriott, Chandigarh as its
new General Manager. Associ-ated with the brand for over a decade now, Deepak brings with him close to 15 years of valuable experience of having worked with various brands of the Marriott International. He ea-gerly looks forward to its open-ing and welcoming both busi-ness and leisure guests from all across the globe.
Aloft Bengaluru Whitefield, an extension of Starwood
Hotels and Resorts property, has appointed Vikas Sharma as its new General Manager. Before this Vikas was with the Chancery Pavillion as a Gener-al Manager in Bengaluru. With over 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he looks forward to play a vital role towards the aggressive expan-sion plans of Starwood Hotels and Resorts in India and the South Asia region.
Travel Trade Journal
Pullman, Gurgaon, Central Park which will soon get operational this year has recently ap-pointed Scott Davies as its new General Manager. Scott is also the General Manager Delegate for Accor Hotel Operations in Delhi and NCR. In his last 15 years of association with the brand, Scott has worked across all Accor brands with exposure to Asia and the Pacific. He holds a Bachelor Degree in Business and Hotel Management from Vic-toria University of Tech-nology in Melbourne, Australia.
The internationally re-nowned Swiss hos-pitality chain’s maiden property in India, Swis-sôtel Kolkata, appoints Ferry Warnke as its new General Manager. He has held similar responsibili-ties in Turkey, as Interim General Manager of Swis-sôtel Grand Efes, Izmir till October 2010. He brings along a rich experience of 14 years in hospitality. With a Master’s degree in Hotel Management from the Bavaria Hotel School in Germany, he is sure to take the brand ahead.
Having been with ITC
as the General Manager of ITC Maurya, New Delhi. Highly recognised as a pioneer in areas of service excellence, positioning, training and development and revenue management, he had the honour of opening ITC Gardenia in 2009. A science degree graduate, Rao completed his Diploma in Hotel Management, followed by a Master’s Degree in HosHaving been with ITC
as the General Manager of ITC Maurya, New Delhi. Highly recognised as a pioneer in areas of service excellence, positioning, training and development and revenue management, he had the honour of opening ITC Gardenia in 2009. A science degree graduate, Rao completed his Diploma in Hotel Management, followed by a Master’s Degree in Hos
Dnew General Manager. Associated with the brand for over a decade now, Deepak brings with him close to 15 years of valuable experience of having worked with various brands of the Marriott International. He eagerly looks forward to its opening and welcoming both business and leisure guests from all across the globe.
Dnew General Manager. Associated with the brand for over a decade now, Deepak brings with him close to 15 years of valuable experience of having worked with various brands of the Marriott International. He eagerly looks forward to its opening and welcoming both business and leisure guests from all across the globe.
AHotels and Resorts property, has appointed Vikas Sharma as its new General Manager. Before this Vikas was with the Chancery Pavillion as a General Manager in Bengaluru. With over 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he looks forward to play a vital role towards the aggressive expansion plans of Starwood Hotels and Resorts in India and the South Asia region.
AHotels and Resorts property, has appointed Vikas Sharma as its new General Manager. Before this Vikas was with the Chancery Pavillion as a General Manager in Bengaluru. With over 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he looks forward to play a vital role towards the aggressive expansion plans of Starwood Hotels and Resorts in India and the South Asia region.
ITC Maurya
Pullman Gurgaon Central Park
JW Marriott Chandigarh
Aloft Bengaluru Whitefield
Kuoni India
Accor Hotel Operations in Delhi and NCR. In his last 15 years of association with the brand, Scott has worked across all Accor brands with exposure to Asia and the Pacific. He holds a Bachelor Degree in Business and Hotel Management from Victoria University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia.
15 years of association with the brand, Scott has worked across all Accor brands with exposure to Asia and the Pacific. He holds a Bachelor Degree in Business and Hotel Management from Victoria University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia.
held similar responsibilities in Turkey, as Interim General Manager of Swissôtel Grand Efes, Izmir till October 2010. He brings along a rich experience of 14 years in hospitality. With a Master’s degree in Hotel Management from the Bavaria Hotel School in Germany, he is sure to take the brand ahead.
General Manager of Swissôtel Grand Efes, Izmir till October 2010. He brings along a rich experience of 14 years in hospitality. With a Master’s degree in Hotel Management from the Bavaria Hotel School in Germany, he is sure to take the brand ahead.
Swissotel Kolkata
Leisure Tours
Services we offer:• Incentives & Corporate Programme divison
• Conference Management Division
• Outbound Tours Division
• Domestic Tours Division
• Inbound Tours Division
• Events Management Division
Plan your holidays with
Contact us at:
Leisure Tours & Travelesque International(Divisions of My Leisure Breaks Pvt. Ltd.)Approved from Ministry of Tourism
I-1,Near Kirti Nager Metro Station, Kirti Nager,New Delhi-110015 Ph: +91- 11-43738800Dir No: +91-11-43738805Mob No : +91-9910096198,9999996198Fax No :+91-11-43738811E-mail: [email protected]: www.leisuretoursindia.com
Member of:
June 2011 42
Travel Trade Journal
June 2011 June 2011 42
Travel Trade JournalTravel Trade Journal
42
Lokesh Sabharwal re-cently got appointed
as the Vice President - Development, India, Nepal, Bangladesh and
Sri Lanka – ACCOR. Before assuming his re-sponsibilities, Lokesh was Director Develop-ment, South West Asia, InterContinental Hotels Group. He is a profes-sional hotelier with over 13 years of experience in hotel development, con-sulting and operations. With a hotel management degree from the Interna-tional College of Hotel Management, Adelaide, Australia, he looks for-ward to the dynamic op-portunity.
as the Head – Marketing in New Delhi. A post graduate diploma holder in Sales and Marketing, her areas of exper-tise involves handling distribu-tor networks, product launches and product segmentation. At Neemrana, Richa will be re-sponsible for establishing new tie-ups in the travel sector, content and media planning and promotional activities.
Sonavi Chopra has recently joined Neemrana Hotels as Head – Corporate Affairs in New Delhi. Formerly she was working as Manager – Corpo-rate Affairs in the corporate de-velopment team of the Execu-tive Director of Sarovar Hotels. Sonavi has a background in hotel management with exper-tise in business development, operations, audio-visual online marketing, Ministry of Tourism star classification, and PR.
Radisson Blu, Paschim Vihar, New Delhi has appointed Neeraj Balani (left) as Director Food and Beverage.
Prior to this, Neeraj has worked with The Oberoi Group, The Park New Delhi & Crowne Plaza NFC in various posi-tions. With an experience of over 15 years in the industry, Neeraj has played a vital role in the launch of some re-puted hotels.
Manoj Kumar (right) has also been recently appointed as the Head Human Resource. Manoj has held senior managerial positions in Bharti Airtel, The Taj Mahal Hotel, Barista Coffee Company Ltd., etc. He holds a post gradu-ate degree in HR with an experience of over 15 years.
Tamir Kobrin is the new General Manager of The Leela Palace, New Delhi. He joined the open-ing team appointed by The Leela Palaces, Ho-tels and Resorts as Gen-eral Manager in 2008. With nearly 20 years of hospitality experience from almost all over the world, Kobrin is ea-ger to raise the bar in hospitality excellence for the brand and the country.
Lokesh Sabharwal re-
Sri Lanka – ACCOR. Before assuming his responsibilities, Lokesh was Director Development, South West Asia, InterContinental Hotels Group. He is a professional hotelier with over 13 years of experience in hotel development, consulting and operations. With a hotel management degree from the International College of Hotel Management, Adelaide, Lokesh Sabharwal re
Sri Lanka – ACCOR. Before assuming his responsibilities, Lokesh was Director Development, South West Asia, InterContinental Hotels Group. He is a professional hotelier with over 13 years of experience in hotel development, consulting and operations. With a hotel management degree from the International College of Hotel Management, Adelaide,
Sonavi Chopra has recently Sonavi Chopra has recently Richa Barua has recently Richa Barua has recently
ACCOR
Neemrana Hotels
Radisson Blu
Outbound Marketing
TThe Leela Palace, New Delhi. He joined the opening team appointed by The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts as General Manager in 2008. With nearly 20 years of hospitality experience from almost all over the world, Kobrin is eager to raise the bar in hospitality excellence for the brand and the country.
TThe Leela Palace, New Delhi. He joined the opening team appointed by The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts as General Manager in 2008. With nearly 20 years of hospitality experience from almost all over the world, Kobrin is eager to raise the bar in hospitality excellence for the brand and the country.
APPOINTMENTS
The Leela Palace New Delhi
June 2011 June 2011 44
Travel Trade Journal
RAZZMATAZZ
J&K Tourism to ensure responsible tourism
Ramp sizzles with the Czech Designs
On April 6, 2011 Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, Jammu and Kashmir, inaugurated the tourism workshop aiming at responsible tourism. The Ecotourism Society of India (ESOI) in partnership with WWF - India along with the support of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism and the PATA India Chapter organised the sixth two day workshop in Jammu. This workshop was initiated to spread awareness and to educate tourism service providers and other stakeholders, especially those in the MSME sector, for ensuring sustainable tourism practices.
From May 9 to 17, 2011 the best of contemporary Czech Designs from glass, porcelain, fashion and automotive industries were presented in India during the Czech Design Week in Delhi and Mumbai. It all happened on the occasion of the visit of H.E. Milan Stech, President, Senate of the Parliament, Czech Republic, to India. For the first time ever, Czech Designs were displayed in India, presenting 17 Czech prominent designers and companies.
Oman Tourism organises its first FAMOman Tourist Office - India held it’s very first, four nights five days travel agents familiarisation trip wherein the agents got an insight in to the ethnicity and gran-deur of the Sultanate of Oman. Agencies which participated in the FAM included Chrysalis Holidays, Cox and Kings, Indiana Travels, Revel Travels, Safir Tours, Thomas Cook, TUI and Vacations Exotica.
Highlighting less explored faces of Kenya to Indian agentsFrom May 1 to 8, 2011 Kenya Tourist Board conducted a successful agent’s familiarisation trip to Kenya. Its objective was to showcase less explored areas of Kenya like capital city Nairobi, Naivasha, Mount Kenya, Meru National Park, Malindi, Watamu and Mombasa. Sameer Sharma - Travel Planners, Amit Watts - Equa-tor Voyagers, Meeloni Vijay Shah - Orbitz Corporate and Leisure and Jayanti Devraj Chheda - Jay Tours and Travels along with other travel agents were the part of the team.
Travel Trade Journal
enya to Indian agentsenya to Indian agentsHighlighting less explored faces of Highlighting less explored faces of
Showcasing destination Thailand to Indian wedding plannersTourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) New Delhi and Mumbai offices, in collaboration with Thai AirAsia, recently hosted a six day FAM trip to Thailand exclusively for the top wedding planners of India. The list included planners from Bollywood Events, Ferns and Petals, Mapsor Events, Luxury Weddings etc. The group went to Bangkok, Hua Hin and Phuket to have one-to-one interaction with the hotels and get a first hand experience of the locations.
man Tourism organises its first FAMman Tourism organises its first FAMOman Tourism organises its first Fman Tourism organises its first Fman Tourism organises its first FOman Tourism organises its first Fman Tourism organises its first F
ighlighting less explored faces of Kenya to enya to enya to ighlighting less explored faces of ighlighting less explored faces of Kenya to enya to ighlighting less explored faces of ighlighting less explored faces of
June 2011 GROWING OUTBOUNDJune 2011 48
Travel Trade Journal
Yes, it truly is sensational for there is no other place that offers such a diverse mix of experiences to the discerning traveller. Not the capital, but Sydney is undoubtedly the most popular and loved city of Australia. It’s like you haven’t seen the real Australia if you let Sydney pass on your trip. So let’s give you a tantalising peek into the Darling Harbour and Oprah House!
Sensational Sydney
Iwould not like to compare it to the lakes and hills of Europe, but Australia has
a charm that is and remains unmatched by the attrac-tions in other countries. If the memory of the eternal fa-vourite of all – Dil Chahta Hai still fresh in your mind, you would remember the lovely backdrops where you have Aamir Khan serenading to Preity Zinta.
Sydney is not huge, yet it’s the most populous city in Australia, but that in no way means that the city is over-crowded. And if you thought touring a city needs loads of money, well, Sydney will surely prove you wrong! There are so many tourist at-tractions in the city that ends up giving you the best of views and natural delights, and all at no cost at all! The must-see attractions in Syd-ney include, the Harbour Bridge, Oprah House, Dar-
ling Harbour, Botanical Gardens and a plethora of museums and exhi-bition centres that are a true visitor’s delight. As for beaches, well we need to dwell separately on them.
Sydney in summertime is all about its coastline, and few stretches are as iconic as the sea-sculpt-ed section from Bondi to Bronte. Learn to surf at Bondi, join the beauti-ful people in Tamarama and swim in Bronte’s family-friendly rock pool. With its brazen beauty and eclectic crowds, Bondi Beach is the hub of many summer events. And if you happen to be in Sydney at the time of New Year, the fireworks at the Harbour and along its various beaches are a sight to behold!
To get the real feel of
RAVI SHARMA
June 2011 GROWING OUTBOUND 49
Travel Trade Journal
and harbour views, then continue past the clown face of Luna Park to Lavender Bay.
any time of the year. The sheltered harbour beaches, headlands and parks are tailor made for walking.
hectare treasury of tropical plants, green lawns, ponds and shady trees, overlooking the harbour, and with free guided walks every morning.
seasons playground, featuring free entertainment from buskers to outdoor shows and annual events like New Year’s Eve and Australia Day concerts and fireworks.
for a thrilling display that ranges from dugout canoes to a jet powered hydrofoil and a historic collection of naval vessels.
-lery of NSW. There’s a whole world of art to discover through free performances for kids every Sunday.
walk through wetlands to the bird hide, take your bike for a spin along the cycle tracks or enjoy a picnic in the 40 hectare parklands.
SOME “FREE” THINGS TO DO IN
SYDNEY
the charm of Sydney, travel across Sydney Harbour on a ferry to Manly, which sits be-tween beaches of ocean surf and tranquil inner harbour. Wander through native bush-land on the scenic Manly to Spit Bridge walk, learn to scuba-dive at Cabbage Tree Bay or ride a bike to Fairy Bower. There is no dearth of adventure and fun opportunities at Sydney, for family, lovers, couples, or senior citizens. Tourists can picnic at Shelly Beach on the ocean and sail or kayak from Manly Wharf round the harbour. You can also hire a scoot-er and do a round trip of northern beaches such as Narrabeen and Palm Beach.
Spend endless hours exploring the shops, bars and cafes along the bustling pine tree-
lined Corso and dine at world-class restau-rants with water views. Meander through the Saturday markets, browse fashion boutiques on bustling Oxford Street or discover the antique shops and art galleries in upmar-ket Woollahra. Visit the 1840s Victoria Bar-racks Army base, open to the public once a week, and see restored Victorian terraces on wide, leafy streets. Ride or roller-blade in huge Centennial Park, then stop for coffee and lunch on Oxford St or in the mini-village of Five Ways. Catch a movie at an art-house cinema or leaf through a novel at midnight in one of the huge bookstores. Crawl between the lively, historic pubs. They hum even more after a game at the nearby stadium or a race day, when girls and guys arrive in their crum-pled trackside finery.
Connectivity to Sydney from India is great. The best bet is Singapore Airlines that offers convenient, affordable and a variety of stop over travel options for tourists from India. Ad-ditionally, Malaysia Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Air India, Jet Airways, Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific and Kingfisher also offer easy and affordable connections to the region. With a bunch of activities waiting to be tried and spots awaiting your exploration, Syd-ney will surely not leave you disappointed. So head Australia this summer and live life Aussie style!
Two Indian companies in Tourism Queensland’s finalist list
New visa waiver scheme by Irish tourism
HKTB witnesses 5.1 per cent increase in Indian tourist arrival
First Domestic Tourism Conclave by FICCI and ADTOI
IHG’s new global sales office in New Delhi and Mumbai
Senai Airport - Johor Bahru, Malaysia to go international again
Etihad Airways launches BusinessConnect in India
Incredible India gears up for publicity campaigns
DTCM launches new hotel classification scheme
70 companies from around the world are now officially in the running to win $1 million (AUD) worth of Queensland incentive travel experiences, after Tourism Queensland revealed the top 70 shortlist in its global Million Dollar Memo campaign. This announce-ment brings good news to India as its leading travel company Thomas Cook and IT Company Datamatics Global Services have
made it among the top 70 which will now be running to win AUD 1 million dollars.
The Government of Ireland has introduced a visa waiver scheme for travellers with a UK visa who wish to visit Ireland. The pilot programme will run from July 1, 2011 to October, 2012. Commenting on the opportunity, Niall Gibbons, Chief Executive – Tour-ism Ireland, said, “With the government’s recently announced imaginative tourist visa waiver scheme making it easier for tourists
from emerging economies to visit Ireland, the time is right to step up promotion in markets in the Asia-Pacific region.”
Figures released by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) recently show that in Q1 2011, visitor arrivals to Hong Kong reached 9,707,971, representing a year-on-year growth of 12.6 per cent. The arrivals figures from India for the same period stood at 98,277 which is a rise of 5.1 per cent for the corresponding period in 2010. In March 2011, visitor numbers from India stood at
41,068, a 13.8 per cent rise compared to March, 2010. 25,180 Indian visitors stayed overnight in the month of March, where as 15,888 Indians were one day travellers for the month.
FICCI jointly with Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI) will organise the first ever Domestic Tourism Conclave planed for August 10, 2011 at The Lalit - New Delhi. The conclave is an attempt to chalk out a practical strategy to increase the flow of domestic tourists within India. There will be three sessions that will make policy makers and stakeholders in the domestic
tourism, understand better the vision and challenges confronting the domestic market.
The InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) recently announced the opening of its Global Sales Office (GSO) in New Delhi and Mumbai. It will allow IHG to drive increased business efficiency, better serve its key clients and bring the strength of IHG’s global scale to this fast growing market. Chris Moloney, Chief Operating Officer, South West Asia, IHG said, “By streamlining our sales
office, we can better meet the needs of our customer’s, offer more customised stays and meetings options and drive great benefits to them by leveraging IHG’s system size.”
International flights are to resume from the Senai Airport at Johor Bahru – Malaysia after a gap of almost a year. Firefly, the low cost carrier, has confirmed that it will introduce its maiden flight to the Indonesian cities of Surabaya and Bandung on August 12 and 16 respectively. It will also fly to Bangkok, at the end of the year. Shaari Mohd Nooh Johor, Director - Tourism Department, said that
Firefly, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines, is serious in wanting to make the Senai Airport its southern hub.
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has launched BusinessConnect in India, a new loyalty pro-gramme specifically for SME businesses. Being a free programme it is built upon the same platform as Etihad Guest and rewards company loyalty with benefits including free flights etc. Neerja Bhatia, General Manager, Etihad Airways – India, said,
“The loyalty programme will provide an excellent reward system for individuals as well as the businesses they work for.”
Ministry of Tourism held a pre-bid meeting with representatives of 13 agencies on May 26, 2011 to clarify certain points as part of the bid process for Incredible India’s global television and print campaigns. The call for a fresh pitch was made on May 19, 2011, following the pre-bid meeting that was held between the officials and interested agencies. Last date for submission of
proposals is June 10, 2011. The agencies that attended the pre-bid meeting included GroupM, OMD, Ogilvy India, MPG, Mindshare, Maxus Global, ZenithOptimedia, Onmicom Group, Crayons Advertising, Prabhatam Advertising etc.
On May 24, 2011 the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), Dubai Government’s tourism licensing and promotional body, announced the launch of a new hotel classification scheme. It was done to broaden the existing system in line with the organization’s vision to guide the emirate’s growing tourism industry. While the hotels have been categorised
under one to five star ratings, the new classification system added a Budget hotel category that has been kept outside the one to five star-rating.
Ne
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eJune 2011 SHORT TAKESJune 2011 50
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June 2011 51
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HOTEL CONNECT
The property was launched in September 2010 and has already carved a niche for it-
self in the hearts of wildlife lovers that are on lookout for something unique. Spread across an area of 80 acres, Blackbuck Lodge is an ultimate destination for the discern-ing travellers with its luxury villas, elite dining area, closeness to the Velavadar National Park and his-toric places of Gujarat and the in-digenous wildlife.
With 14 air-conditioned cot-tages, the wildlife resort has al-ready won the hearts of many with its attention to minimalistic chic in-teriors and stylish architecture. As the property does not share any boundaries with the national park, one gets to see the wild animals at the park from the room itself. The restaurant at the lodge caters
to traditional Indian cuisine and serves a plethora of dishes in ad-dition to regional Kathiawadi spe-cialties. The walk to the restaurant from your cottage, through the lush natural grasslands of the region is a unique experience in itself. As one enters the resort, one will also find a section dedicated to books and magazines on wildlife near the re-ception area.
Mickey Desai, Owner, Black-buck Lodge forsees to expand and add other unique features to the property. He said, “We are planning to setup a bar-be-que area along with a pool and our own little or-ganic bakery.” He also outlined that the magnificence of this secluded setting is ideal for the weekend getaways. Undoubtedly it is a great place for those who want to revel in the region’s breathtaking beauty.
Blackbuck LodgeA treat for wildlife loversAlong the Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, near the west coast of Gulf of Cambay, this wildlife resort offers unsurpassed luxury in the middle of an untamed landscape. Mickey Desai, Owner, Blackbuck Logde tells TTJ about the breathtaking beauty that’s perfect for family reunions and vacations.
June 2011 June 2011 52 VACATIONS UNLIMITED
Travel Trade Journal
Amari Vogue Krabi
HRH Group of Hotels
Clouds End Villa Cottage Lodge At Pong
Banyan Tree Samui The Claridges Nabha Residence,Mussoorie
Amari Vogue Krabi offers a treat to an enchant-ing tropical paradise. Its gateway package for
three nights is priced at `22,915 approx. It offers stay in a Deluxe room including breakfast with fruits and flowers in room, round trip airport transfers with hotel representative meeting the guest at the air-port, welcome drink on arrival, one three course set dinner at Bellini or Lotus restaurant and 20 per cent discount on spa treatment. The package is valid till October 31, 2011.
AMARI CORAL BEACH PHUKETThe Super Saver Package for five nights and six days is available for `28,560 approx. The stay is in a Deluxe room with one free set Thai dinner at Kinaree restaurant and guaranteed late checkout till 1600 hrs. All other inclusions remain the same. The package is valid till October 31, 2011.
For more information on Amari visit www.amari.com or call 011-23737348, 9899639478.
(Terms and conditions apply)
Clouds End Villa Cottage of-fers a stay in its suite with twin
beds / sitting and dining area in just `3,000. It is inclusive of break-fast and all taxes (per night basis). The cost of Standard room stands at around `2,000. An extra bed will be arranged at 40 per cent package amount. A service tax of 10 per cent will be charged ex-tra. Rates are valid till March 31, 2012.
The Standard room can be availed at Lodge at Pong for `4,000 and the Deluxe one for `5,000. It includes bed and breakfast. Lunch can be enjoyed for just `800 per person. Din-ner in `1,500 includes snacks and barbeque. Rates are on per night basis. All package in-clusions remain the same as above.
Rates are valid till March 31, 2012.
(Terms and conditions apply)
Enjoy the Summer Value Package 2011 on re-duced rates at the National Tourism Award
Winning Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur. The offer valid from April 1 - September 30, 2011 includes accommodation on a double occupancy basis
for two nights and three days, an extra bed for child under eight years of age, breakfast, bed tea, lunch or dinner and regal visits. The stay in a Palace room type starts from `22,999. The De-luxe room at Gajner Palace, Bikaner is priced at `10,999.
The Royal Retreat package at The Aodhi, Kumbhalgarh and Gorbandh Palace, Jaisalmer is valid from April 1 – September 30, 2011. All package inclusions remain the same as above. The stay in Standard room of Garden Hotel, Udaipur will cost around `9,999. The Deluxe
room is priced at `10,999.For reservations and enquiries call central
reservations, Udaipur on 1800 180 2933, 1800 180 2944.
(Terms and conditions apply)
The Royal Banyan Pool Villa at Banyan Tree, Samui combines the best elements of a tropi-
cal getaway with white beaches and sun. Under the Summer 2011 promotion it offers a two nights – stay three nights package. The cost of Garden Pool Villa is THB 21,610 and Ocean Pool Villa is for THB 23,200. The tariff includes breakfast, ex-tra person @ THB 6300 per night; stay of one child below 12 for free and taxes extra @18.7 per cent.
For more details or reservations call Delhi -011-23730477 or Mumbai- 022-24981777.
(Terms and conditions apply)
The Claridges Nabha Residence, Mussoorie is offering two nights
three days stay package from July 19 to March 31, 2012. The two types of rooms put on offer are Deluxe room, priced at `13,999 and Duplex type priced at `14,999 (11.5 per cent tax extra) inclusive of breakfast and din-ner. From 11am to 8pm, every one and a half hour, a pick and drop would be provided to the guests from the prop-erty to Mall Road. The offer is not ap-plicable on long weekends.
For more information and room res-ervations, call +91 135 2631 426 / 427 or email [email protected].
(Terms and conditions apply)
Amari Vogue Krabi
Amari Vogue Krabi offers a treat to an enchant-ing tropical paradise. Its gateway package for
three nights is priced at `22,915 approx. It offers stay in a Deluxe room including breakfast with fruits and flowers in room, round trip airport transfers with hotel representative meeting the guest at the air-port, welcome drink on arrival, one three course set dinner at Bellini or Lotus restaurant and 20 per cent discount on spa treatment. The package is valid till October 31, 2011.
AMARI CORAL BEACH PHUKETThe Super Saver Package for five nights and six days is available for `28,560 approx. The stay is in a Deluxe room with one free set Thai dinner at Kinaree restaurant and guaranteed late checkout till 1600 hrs. All other inclusions remain the same. The package is valid till October 31, 2011.
For more information on Amari visit www.amari.com or call 011-23737348, 9899639478.
(Terms and conditions apply)
Travel Trade Journal
Clouds End Villa Cottage Lodge At Pong Clouds End Villa Cottage of-
fers a stay in its suite with twin beds / sitting and dining area in just `3,000. It is inclusive of break-fast and all taxes (per night basis). The cost of Standard room stands at around `2,000. An extra bed will be arranged at 40 per cent package amount. A service tax of 10 per cent will be charged ex-tra. Rates are valid till March 31, 2012.
The Standard room can be availed at Lodge at Pong for `4,000 and the Deluxe one for `5,000. It includes bed and breakfast. Lunch can be enjoyed for just `800 per person. Din-ner in `1,500 includes snacks and barbeque. Rates are on per night basis. All package in-clusions remain the same as above.
Rates are valid till March 31, 2012.
(Terms and conditions apply)
HRH Group of HotelsEnjoy the Summer Value Package 2011 on re-
duced rates at the National Tourism Award Winning Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur. The offer valid from April 1 - September 30, 2011 includes accommodation on a double occupancy basis
for two nights and three days, an extra bed for child under eight years of age, breakfast, bed tea, lunch or dinner and regal visits. The stay in a Palace room type starts from `22,999. The De-luxe room at Gajner Palace, Bikaner is priced at `10,999.
The Royal Retreat package at The Aodhi, Kumbhalgarh and Gorbandh Palace, Jaisalmer is valid from April 1 – September 30, 2011. All package inclusions remain the same as above. The stay in Standard room of Garden Hotel, Udaipur will cost around `9,999. The Deluxe
room is priced at `10,999.For reservations and enquiries call central
reservations, Udaipur on 1800 180 2933, 1800 180 2944.
(Terms and conditions apply)
Banyan Tree SamuiThe Royal Banyan Pool Villa at Banyan Tree,
Samui combines the best elements of a tropi-cal getaway with white beaches and sun. Under the Summer 2011 promotion it offers a two nights – stay three nights package. The cost of Garden Pool Villa is THB 21,610 and Ocean Pool Villa is for THB 23,200. The tariff includes breakfast, ex-tra person @ THB 6300 per night; stay of one child below 12 for free and taxes extra @18.7 per cent.
For more details or reservations call Delhi -011-23730477 or Mumbai- 022-24981777.
(Terms and conditions apply)
The Claridges Nabha Residence,MussoorieThe Claridges Nabha Residence,
Mussoorie is offering two nights three days stay package from July 19 to March 31, 2012. The two types of rooms put on offer are Deluxe room, priced at `13,999 and Duplex type priced at `14,999 (11.5 per cent tax extra) inclusive of breakfast and din-ner. From 11am to 8pm, every one and a half hour, a pick and drop would be provided to the guests from the prop-erty to Mall Road. The offer is not ap-plicable on long weekends.
For more information and room res-ervations, call +91 135 2631 426 / 427 or email [email protected].
(Terms and conditions apply)
Book domestic tickets at ‘Unbeatable Prices’
www.bookajourney.com
June 2011 53
Travel Trade Journal
SPECIAL FOCUS
Travel Trade Journal
Palmgrove Club Home away from home
Bask in the glory of nature at Tea Bungalow
Striking a perfect harmony amid the old world charm of the tropical getaway; and the vivacious, irrepressible spirit of the contemporary resort, Palmgrove managed by Marg Hotels & Resorts is many destinations in one. TTJ tells you about this serene place away from maddening crowds.
Steeped in rich tradition and history of the colonial past, Tea Bungalow, a few months shy of 100 years, the property welcomes all to its centenary celebrations. TTJ tells you more about the exclusive luxury heritage boutique resort in Fort Kochi, Kerala.
Agreen river front property, lo-cated far enough from the mundane rushes of the city life
yet, close enough for that easy ac-cess to all the hot-spots of Cochin, Palmgrove is the one stop shop for all your getaway needs.
Tucked away in a peaceful little al-cove on the banks of the Chilavanoor River, Kerala, Ambady’s Palmgrove Club embodies the epitome of eco-friendly habitation. Built as a water-front apartment hotel the Palmgrove Club boasts of the finest suite rooms in Kochi, with unmatched contempo-rary facilities in a relaxed and tranquil ambience for business as well as for leisure travellers.
Palmgrove offers 16 studios and
three apartments for guests, fully furnished and equipped for those who like to stay indoors and cosy up. Adukala (‘Kitchen’) offers a com-plimentary breakfast buffet for its guests. Though the region is famous throughout the world for its backwa-ters, it is home to probably the only fine dining restaurant courting the backwaters. Palmgrove doubles up as an ideal destination for quaint theme weddings and functions too. Offering everything from Ayurvedic massage parlour, in house gym, pool, a small esplanade adjoining the restaurant, plush green lawns, and a small stage on the lawn, one can find peace and solace at ‘The Palmgrove’.
Established in 1912, and earlier known as ‘Brook Bond Bun-
galow’, the property was restored and renamed two years back as Tea Bungalow. The property with its distinct fusion of Portuguese, Dutch, Victorian and indigenous in-
fluences, serve up the quin-tessence of ‘Fort Cochin’.
The vibrant colours of the property seem to greet the one who enters. Pol-ished hardwood floors, French windows, floor length drapes, high ceiling red tiled roof and an exquisite chan-
delier are the first glimpses of what this luxury resort has to offer.
Tea Bungalow has an inimitable selection of 10 tastefully designed gues-trooms, all similar in size and appointments and yet each having its soul. The ten
rooms are named after ports faithful to the Indian Ocean – Galle, Goa, Malacca, Mau-ritius, Muscat, Mombasa etc. The port cities lend its spirit to each room. One can experience divine dining at, Tea Bungalow’s in house restaurant Satiate your pal-
ette, with the rich blend of the very best traditional Ker-ala, Indian and continental cuisines.
This quaint getaway has a lush green garden which envelopes the property. Tea Bungalow is endowed with not just heritage and history but also with, a dozens of trees, Mango, Jackfruit, Av-ocado, and Almond being a few of them. Its aquama-rine swimming pool is lined with leather polished gran-ite and Italian Bisazza tile. Sun loungers are arranged around the pool-deck, each one provided with a fresh, soft, snowy white towel. The pool side ambience placates the mind, letting it wander off, into books or thought. Come to Tea Bungalow.
Managed by Marg Hotels & ResortsFor Reservations call :
Bithun Kumar : +919744013222 Ph : 0484-3918867/68
Fax : 0484-3042817Website - www.marghotels.com
June 2011 June 2011 54
Travel Trade Journal
VACATIONS UNLIMITED
Devi Garh
WelcomHeritage
Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad
Fortune SelectRegina, Goa The experience history pack-
age by Devi Garh Palace of-fers an irresistible combination of the best of the old and new in India. The package offers an ac-commodation in a suite for two nights and three days on single or double occupancy basis. It also includes daily breakfast for two at the restaurant, com-plimentary usage of gym and swimming pool and complimen-tary stay for two children up to 12 years of age in parent’s room inclusive of breakfast only. Its va-lidity is from April 1- October 15,
2011 for a minimum stay of two nights. The Garden suite starts at `18,000 and the Palace Suite at `23,000 on single occupancy basis.
The Joyful Gateway promises a memorable holiday with all the ingredients of fun, adventure, relaxation and discovery at Devi Garh. The Garden Suite is avail-able for `21,000 and the Palace Suite for `25,500 from April 1- October 15, 2011 for a minimum stay of two nights. All package inclusions remain the same as above.
For more information call + 91 99289 72211 or visit www.deviresorts.in
(Terms and conditions apply)
The Royal Retreat Packages by Taj Holidays calls for stay in Umaid Bha-
wan Palace, Jodhpur. Its Palace rooms are available for ̀ 45,000 and Royal Suite for `80,000 on double occupancy basis for a minimum stay of two nights. The price includes breakfast at Rajput room, airport transfers in a luxury car and tra-ditional welcome drink on arrival.
Experience the famed Nizam’s hospital-ity with the distinguished Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad. Its Luxury rooms are available for `35,000 and the Royal Suite for `50,000 on double occupancy basis for a minimum stay of two nights. All other package inclusions remain the same as above.
(Terms and conditions apply)Courtesy- Jetsave
The WelcomHeritage Lallgarh Palace, Bikaner has been recently renovated with state of the
art facilities and plush interiors. It offers 50 well-appointed rooms, in standard and suite catego-
ries. The Standard room of the property is priced at `7,999and the suite at `13,999. The above prices are for two nights / three days inclusive of American
breakfast and taxes (CPAI). The package is valid from April 1 – September 30, 2011.
The Taragarh Palace, Palampur stay pack-age is valid from April 1 – September 30, 2011. The Heritage double room is available for `17,000 and the Superior deluxe double room for `20,500. The above package is for two nights and three days inclusive of breakfast, one major meal, bed tea and taxes (MAPAI).
For more information log on to www.wel-comheritagehotels.com.
(Terms and conditions apply)
Located in Candolim, North Goa, the idyllic epicentre of
holidays, Fortune Select Regina is an ideal retreat for a fun-filled vacation. The stay in Luxury room is available for `7,399 and Deluxe for `6,699 on per night basis. It includes airport/railway
station transfers, welcome drink, breakfast, lunch and dinner, 20 per cent discount on salon, spa and laundry, complimentary use of swimming pool and gymna-sium, inclusive of taxes.
FORTUNE SELECTDASVE, LAVASA
Positioned 2000-3000 ft. above sea level amidst 25,000 acres of lakes and hills in the beautiful and scenic locales of
Lavasa, Fortune Select Dasve is a perfect getaway offering a vi-brant and self-contained world. Its package for a Standard room stay is priced at `7,999 per night during weekends (check-in Friday, check-out Sunday). It includes room, breakfast, wel-
come drink, complimentary food voucher worth `1000 per night, complimentary beverage worth `500 per night, all inclusive of taxes. During the weekdays the Standard room is available for `6,999. All package inclusions remain the same as above.
For any enquiries call cus-tomer support 1800 102 2333 8am – 8pm.
(Terms and conditions apply)
Travel Trade Journal
Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad
The Royal Retreat Packages by Taj Holidays calls for stay in Umaid Bha-
wan Palace, Jodhpur. Its Palace rooms are available for ̀ 45,000 and Royal Suite for `80,000 on double occupancy basis for a minimum stay of two nights. The price includes breakfast at Rajput room, airport transfers in a luxury car and tra-ditional welcome drink on arrival.
Experience the famed Nizam’s hospital-ity with the distinguished Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad. Its Luxury rooms are available for `35,000 and the Royal Suite for `50,000 on double occupancy basis for a minimum stay of two nights. All other package inclusions remain the same as above.
has been recently renovated with state of the art facilities and plush interiors. It offers 50 well-appointed rooms, in standard and suite catego-
ries. The Standard room of the property is priced at `7,999and the suite at `13,999. The above prices are for two nights / three days inclusive of American
breakfast and taxes (CPAI). The package is valid from April 1 – September 30, 2011.
The Taragarh Palace, Palampur stay pack-age is valid from April 1 – September 30, 2011. The Heritage double room is available for `17,000 and the Superior deluxe double room for `20,500. The above package is for two nights and three days inclusive of breakfast, one major meal, bed tea and taxes (MAPAI).
For more information log on to www.wel-comheritagehotels.com.
(Terms and conditions apply)
Devi GarhThe experience history pack-
age by Devi Garh Palace of-fers an irresistible combination of the best of the old and new in India. The package offers an ac-commodation in a suite for two nights and three days on single or double occupancy basis. It also includes daily breakfast for two at the restaurant, com-plimentary usage of gym and swimming pool and complimen-tary stay for two children up to 12 years of age in parent’s room inclusive of breakfast only. Its va-lidity is from April 1- October 15,
2011 for a minimum stay of two nights. The Garden suite starts at `18,000 and the Palace Suite at `23,000 on single occupancy basis.
The Joyful Gateway promises a memorable holiday with all the ingredients of fun, adventure, relaxation and discovery at Devi Garh. The Garden Suite is avail-able for `21,000 and the Palace Suite for `25,500 from April 1- October 15, 2011 for a minimum stay of two nights. All package inclusions remain the same as above.
For more information call + 91 99289 72211 or visit www.deviresorts.in
(Terms and conditions apply)
Fortune SelectRegina, Goa Located in Candolim, North
Goa, the idyllic epicentre of holidays, Fortune Select Regina is an ideal retreat for a fun-filled vacation. The stay in Luxury room is available for `7,399 and Deluxe for `6,699 on per night basis. It includes airport/railway
station transfers, welcome drink, breakfast, lunch and dinner, 20 per cent discount on salon, spa and laundry, complimentary use of swimming pool and gymna-sium, inclusive of taxes.
FORTUNE SELECTDASVE, LAVASA
Positioned 2000-3000 ft. above sea level amidst 25,000 acres of lakes and hills in the beautiful and scenic locales of
Lavasa, Fortune Select Dasve is a perfect getaway offering a vi-brant and self-contained world. Its package for a Standard room stay is priced at `7,999 per night during weekends (check-in Friday, check-out Sunday). It includes room, breakfast, wel-
come drink, complimentary food voucher worth `1000 per night, complimentary beverage worth `500 per night, all inclusive of taxes. During the weekdays the Standard room is available for `6,999. All package inclusions remain the same as above.
For any enquiries call cus-tomer support 1800 102 2333 8am – 8pm.
(Terms and conditions apply)
v
June 2011 ASTRO SPEAKJune 2011 56
ARIES (MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20)You will plan something ad-venturous with children. Mind will be at ease. You will be on the move and may have to spend most time outside office. Legal mat-ters will keep taking positive shape and the final victory is not too far now. You will spend money on buy-ing some unique gifts. An old friend will pay a surprise visit.Favourable colour: Blue
LIBRA (SEPT 23 TO OCT 22)Planets bring lots of relief in career. Someone who was a threat will move out of state. You will finally lay your hands on the money which was due long time ago. Children will help you plan an ex-citing trip. There will be overnight positive changes in health of an ailing family mem-ber. All attempts will hit bull’s eye.Favourable colour: Orange
TAURUS (APRIL 21 TO MAY 20)Efforts will not go in vain; rather you will make good use of the weak oppor-tunity and turn it into a very profitable deal. Strong Sun in first will make you more popular in social cir-cle. You would not mind showing off an expensive item you purchased recently to your friends. Things will keep getting more relaxed in career.Favourable colour: Pink
SCORPIO (OCT 23 TO NOV 22)There will be dramatic chang-es in life and suddenly you will be full of energy. Project started half heartedly will take off like a bullet and will become major thing soon. You will be helped by a person who is not only suc-cessful but has lots of good connections. You have some money coming out of legal pro-cedure also.Favourable colour: Red
GEMINI (MAY 21 TO JUNE 20)Strong Venus will improve things around suddenly and you will start to enjoy life more and will stay cheerful. Favourable planets bring financial relief in a big way. You will make final pay-ments on several bills, commitments made around November of last year. You will also receive valuable advice about career from a ma-tured person.Favourable colour: Yellow
SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23 TO DEC 22)Health concerns bother-ing you for past several months will go away. Chances of addition in the family for prospec-tive couples become strong suddenly. You will really enjoy the company of a new friend. A very favour-able month for people looking for a change in career. Some of you will be getting ready for an upcoming move also.Favourable colour: Cream
You will plan something ad-venturous with children. Mind will be at ease. You will be on the move and may have to spend
-ing some unique gifts. An old friend will pay a
avourable colour: Blue
range
Planets bring lots of relief in career. Someone who was a threat will move
ber. All attempts will hit
range
Efforts will not go in vain; rather you will make good use of the weak oppor-tunity and turn it into a very profitable deal.
purchased recently to your friends. Things will keep getting more
avourable colour: Pink
There will be dramatic chang-es in life and suddenly you will be full of energy. Project started half heartedly will take off
of good connections. You have some money coming out of legal pro-
avourable colour: Red
Strong Venus will improve things around suddenly and you will start to enjoy life more and will stay cheerful. Favourable
last year. You will also receive valuable advice about career from a ma-
avourable colour: Yellow
Health concerns bother-ing you for past several months will go away. Chances of addition in
-
looking for a change in career. Some of you will be getting ready for an
avourable colour: Cream
Sanjay Narula Sanjay Sondhi
Ankush Nijhawan
Girish Vidwans
Rajnish Sabharwal
HOROSCOPEAshwin Narayanan
Travel Trade Journal
Travel Trade Journal
June 2011 ASTRO SPEAK 57
Travel Trade Journal
Though there is no real threat of any kind but mind will not be at ease for next few months of
2011. Things will continue to stay challenging in career till May and once Jupiter moves into eleventh you will have a big sigh of relief. Start of a major project in partnership still in the air. 2011 should open new doors and second income for you. You will benefit from people living abroad and from all ongoing projects overseas. Your assets will grow and you may buy another property for investment purpose this year. Around June you may also change one of your vehi-cles. Year will start with some confu-sions but right advice from someone
mature will help you adopt the correct path. Chances of moving to a nicer place are very strong during summer of 2011. You will feel more energetic and try to face the issues head on and that will be the root cause of your suc-cess this year. Take your time and do not rush into second venture quickly, otherwise you will end up losing your sleep. Wait till July to start something new. You will spend more money on children this year and will travel over-seas at least twice for business pur-pose. November will bring sudden change in career and a dream job or business will become a reality. You will receive full support from spouse and close relatives in 2011.
of the MonthStar
PANDIT PARASHARPandit Parashar is a well-recognised professional astrologer based in California and has been practicing astrology for more than 34 years. His work and predictions are carried on regular basis in prominent nationwide Indian newspapers, magazines, periodicals and on Inter-net. His careful analysis and systematic approach to astrology has earned him a respectable place in society.You can visit his website www.parashar.com
GEMINI
ANDIT PARASHAR PARASHAR P
CANCER (JUNE 21 TO JULY 22)Hard work and patience shown in the past will pay off in big way and the in-vestment will be lot less than anticipated. This could be a turning point in your career. You may suddenly develop taste for red meat or hot and spicy food. Planet in elev-enth helps you make big chunk of money through stocks. Trip will be entertaining.Favourable colour: White
CAPRICORN (DEC 22 TO JAN 19)Wait will be over and you will start hearing from other side. Negotiations will take some more time but will ultimately ma-terialise. Pay attention to a health issue that flares up from time to time. You will make few useful friends at the gathering. Letters you write will get re-sponse quickly and in positive only.Favourable colour: Blue
LEO (JULY 23 TO AUGUST 22)Lots of uncertainty will disap-pear from life and you will be able to plan things in better way with determi-nation and confidence as well. You may have some money coming from insurance or in-laws this month. You will meet few impor-tant people in con-nection with business who will immediately assure you of all help and cooperation.Favourable colour: Orange
AQUARIUS (JAN 20 TO FEB 18)Opportunities to make mon-ey will keep coming one after another. Soon a big family reunion will take place and you will be slowly work-ing towards it. Busi-ness trip will be fruit-ful and the results will be far bigger than anticipated. You may develop a taste for sweets. Idea of le-gal action to prove your point is not bad.Favourable colour: Golden
VIRGO (AUGUST 23 TO SEPTEMBER 22)There will be some changes in business partners you had been working with for quite some time. New partners will be more far sighted and easy to deal with. Some of you will be getting ready to move to an-other place. There is an overseas business trip in the air. Planets look very favourable from financial point of view.Favourable colour: Green
PISCES (FEB 19 TO MARCH 20)You will be offered a dream opportunity but without too much financial gains. People in business will experience better sales and will be motivated to spend little more on advertising. Spouse will complain about aches and pains in joint and may need to rest more. You will also make final payment on couple of credit cards.Favourable colour: Red
Hard work and patience shown in the past will pay off in big way and the in-vestment will be lot less than anticipated. This
enth helps you make big chunk of money through stocks. Trip will
White
Wait will be over and you will start hearing from other side. Negotiations will take some more time
-
-sponse quickly and in
avourable colour: Blue
range
Lots of uncertainty will disap-pear from life and you will be able to plan things in better way with determi-nation and confidence
nection with business who will immediately assure you of all help
range
Opportunities to make mon-ey will keep coming one after another. Soon a big family reunion will
-gal action to prove your
avourable colour: Golden
There will be some changes in business partners you had been working with for quite some time. New partners will be more
trip in the air. Planets look very favourable from financial point of
avourable colour: Green
You will be offered a dream opportunity but without too much financial gains. People in business will experience better sales
rest more. You will also make final payment on
avourable colour: Red
Parmod Sahini
Aishwarya Katoch
Amit Bansal
Sudhir Kaul Hament Rai
of the MonthStarStar
HOROSCOPE
Sunil Sikka
Travel Trade Journal
June 2011 COFFEE WITH TTJJune 2011 58
We anticipate a promising industry outlook for next half year: SinghTheir technology additions ensured optimisation of resources in the travel industry while instilling immense confidence in the agents’ community for closing the year with a 13.5 per cent increase in travel bookings over the previous year. J B Singh, President and Chief Executive Officer, Travelport Galileo, talks about his new product Universal Desktops, and the HR mantra that has made InterGlobe one of the best companies to work for, with TTJ, over coffee.
The year 2010 saw India becoming one of the most potential tourism
markets in the world. The number of foreign tourist ar-rivals in India for the period January to November 2010 grew by 10.4 per cent. It further expanded rapidly, upgraded income level and inauguration of various inter-national sports events (Crick-et 20/20 and Commonwealth Games); the India tourism industry fruitfully grew in a healthy manner. On the GDS front, several new technology additions were made to the system which helped in op-timisation of resources. Sev-eral product offerings from
Travelport Galileo helped in penetrating into niche mar-kets and smaller regions as well to meet the demands of the customers’ there; hence building expertise in the sec-tor. Another key trend that stood out within the GDS in-dustry was the phenomenal growth of the mobile plat-form. As an industry leader, ITQ developed the mSmart to enable its travel partners in India to maximise the po-tential of the mobile platform. ITQ experienced 16.5 per cent year on year growth in total booking volumes. The growth spurt has been fu-elled in part by the pent up demand for leisure travel as
well as the return of corpo-rate travel.
Talking about the new products and technologies that Travelport Galileo would be introducing this year, Singh said, “The Universal Desktops, as a new kid on the block, is a true example of a need resulting in in-novation that has positively impacted the travel value chain. It is going to be a boon for the travel industry! It is a technology to help the travel industry with better content aggregation and manage-ment. The travel industry feels a pressure from the demand and supply graph in the market, as the customer has become much more de-manding than before. Mean-while, a global path breaking technology will be undoubt-edly the Universal API. Uni-versal API is an information boom that would make more information available to ser-vice the customer in a better way. This will prove to be a cutting edge technology for the travel agents and OTA’s as it will be the first Applica-tion Programming Interface (API) that will offer the power and capacity to aggregate travel content and related services from multiple sourc-es through a single interface. In the first release, Travelport GDS will be made available
through Universal API.”Been repeatedly voted
as the best company to work for, InterGlobe surely has its HR practices in place. “At InterGlobe we have always lived up to the values for an employee and have always practiced high ethical stan-dards by taking personal responsibilities. We strive to make each interaction; be it internal or external; a step forward in building long last-ing relationships. It is and will always remain an ongo-ing effort from our side, to help keep the most valued group of stakeholders – our employees – satisfied and growing,” he said.
Meanwhile, as per Singh,
the biggest challenge facing the CRS industry today is the adoption of technology by travel industry. As the market is growing fast the needs of the customer are also chang-ing accordingly. On its part the GDS is investing a huge amount in providing new technology, which it believes will help every agency. It re-mains to be seen that how soon this adoption will hap-pen. The other big challenge seems to be the non-air content. As the times have changed and the world has moved on, there are robust non air content available through solid technical plat-forms, which are compatible to GDS platform.
PRIYANKA SAXENA
HOW DO YOU LIKE YOUR COFFEE?Black. No sugar
YOUR FAVOURITE CAR?Land Rover
YOUR PREFERRED HOTEL TO STAY, IN INDIA ANDABROAD?Brunton Boatyard in IndiaGrosvenor House (DXB) abroad
YOUR FAVOURITE CUISINE?Indian
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE HOLIDAYDESTINATIONS, IN INDIA AND ABROAD?Ladakh and Italy
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Volume 1 Issue V March 2011 Pages 56 Rs 50
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V March 2011 Pages 56 Rs 50
ound tourism performed in 2010 Gujarat Tourism, post the trav
Finnair, despite a bad 2010, is all geared to do well
Volume 1 Issue V March 2011 P
A cursory look on how the inbound tourism performed in 2
many celebrity and Bollywood weddings Gujarat Tourism, post the trav
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