June 2009 – Travel Magazines Articles
The South Asian Life & Times, India
It is a matter of privilege and pride to have Rajmata Gayatri Devi of Jaipur grace the cover of this issue. An icon of grace and dignity - she celebrates a milestone birthday in May this year
The South Asian Life & Times, India
Rajmata Gayatri Devi (or The Queen Mother) as she is now known, lives in ‘Lilypool’ – a home she and her husband built for themselves in the sixties – amidst the serene and tranquil surroundings of their Rambagh Palace (now hotel).
The South Asian Life & Times, India
The South Asian Life & Times, India
Thirty kilometers from Gurgaon is the Pataudi Palace, a 1930s colonial mansion dripping with cricket nostalgia. Its billiard room and the passage leading from it to the banquet room are virtual cricket galleries of sepia and black and white cricket images, shields and trophies. The palace grounds also have a cricket field!
The South Asian Life & Times, India
About 85 kms from Gurgaon, on the Delhi-Jaipur highway, is the Neemrana Fort - a 15th century fort-palace, built in the Rajput architectural tradition, atop a plateau surrounded on three sides by the Aravalli ranges – its ten stepped levels commanding spectacular views of the Neemrana village below. Restored by architect/planner Aman Nath in 1992, from a state of utter ruin, for adaptive re-use as a heritage hotel, this former royal home with a series of courtyards on ten different levels now offers 37 rooms, 13 suites, a swimming pool, hanging gardens, banquet halls, amphitheatre and a museum.
The South Asian Life & Times, India
A four-hour bone-rattling drive for most of the 185 km stretch on pitted roads gets one from Gurgaon to the Shekhawati region in north Rajasthan, known for its crumbling havelis richly painted with now-fading images of gods, aeroplanes, gramophones, locomotives, and cars. Despite its trash-cluttered, and often dilapidated streets, the place casts a spell. Shekhawati region has several little towns and villages – Nawalgarh, Mandawa, Bagar and Fatehpur to name some of the well-known ones. Shekhawati is famous for its painted havelis (stately homes) built by Marwaris (described best as traders from Rajasthan) who have become India’s most successful entrepreneurs and long since moved out of these magnificent homes.
The South Asian Life & Times, India
About 6 kms from Rajiv Chowk in Gurgaon, off the chaotic Sohna Road, is a lazy lane that meanders seven kilometers down to Tikli Bottom – a Lutyens style four-bedroom private guest house run by the English couple Martin and Annie. It is located at the bottom of Tikli village, just at the edge of the village of Baas – hence the name Tikli Bottom. Adjacent to a stud farm, Annie and Martin Howard bought the 2-acre parcel of land in the 1990s to build a home for themselves. The quiet and alluring charm of the surrounding Aravallis was something they wanted to share with friends – and soon enough what was to be their retirement retreat turned into a private guest house. It is not a walk-in set-up – you need to book well in advance. The rooms are limited but not the guests wanting to stay there. The tariff of Rs 12,000 per night for a double room is inclusive of all food and drinks.
The South Asian Life & Times, India
The 2,900 km long Brahmaputra River is no ordinary river. It is one of Asia’s principal rivers and perhaps the most turbulent. It originates from the icy glaciers of the Himalaya, passes through much of Tibet, the North Eastern states of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam and finally merges with the Ganges and empties into the Bay of Bengal.
Elephant - icon of new style leadership
The South Asian Life & Times, India
Sustainability constitutes nothing less than a set of new rules in the game of business. If companies are to survive and thrive in this changing environment, they are going to need a new generation of leadership skills. The old top management style - typical of the impressive predatory instincts of the lion - is increasingly going to become a liability. Relentlessly hunting bigger profits, reduced costs, higher share prices, greater market share and more extravagant executive packages, while compromising broader social and environment goals, is going to come back to bite. Merciless lion companies will find themselves bleeding, some even mortally wounded.
The South Asian Life & Times, India
The Elephant Festival of Jaipur is an annual event, introduced 30 years ago as a celebration of the most sagacious living being in the animal kingdom – the elephant.
The South Asian Life & Times, India
He is of medium height, and deep-chested. His self-assurance and that firm torso exude the kind of authority and sensitivity that does not need advertising. In repose, his gray eyes are hooded, inscrutable, yet twinkling with buoyancy, "the unbearable lightness of being". In one of his self-portraits, wearing a beret he could almost pass off as a French wine maker.
World's First Climate Refugees of Sunderbans
The South Asian Life & Times, India
Climate change is one of the biggest challenges of the twenty-first century. The worst affected will be the disadvantaged and the poorest people of the planet – who consume the least resources, have no role in global warming, have a minimal carbon footprint, and are also the least prepared to cope with the devastating effects of climate change. Sunderbans is one such site that is already in the grip of the effects of climate change.
Most Spectacular Himalayan Golf Courses
The South Asian Life & Times, India
The British brought golf to India, and preferred to play the sport in the cool of the mountains, where they laid out several courses. The Himalayan golf courses are not exactly the game's green cathedrals, in fact many are nine-hole courses where one plays eighteen from different tees – all thousands of feet above sea level, surrounded by towering peaks, in hill stations that are now remnants of the British Raj in India.
The South Asian Life & Times, India
The original six-hole golf course in Gulmarg, a tiny hill station near Srinagar, was built in 1890 by a British army colonel. In 1901, the Maharaja of Kashmir donated land that was turned into a separate course also known as the ‘upper course’, which was redesigned in the 1970s by Peter Thomson, into the Gulmarg Golf Club – a links style public course. The turf, since it lies buried six to eight feet under snow for five months of the year, is soft. The greens are a combination of moss and a variety of high-altitude grass, which are fast to play on, and the thin air carries the ball further.
The South Asian Life & Times, India
The Royal Springs Golf Course is located over an expanse of 300 acres of rolling hills, natural marsh, deciduous forests, lakes and wilderness, near Srinagar’s picturesque Cheshma Shahi (Royal Springs) garden, laid by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Designed by the renowned golf-course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. in 1996, the course overlooks the Dal Lake against the backdrop of Zabarwan mountains.
The South Asian Life & Times, India
Surrounded by Himalaya and dense Himalayan cedar, it is one of the oldest and yet another picturesque golf courses in India. It is now an 18-hole course – with an ancient temple by one of the greens. The sloping glade makes it a challenging course
Himalayan Golf Course, Pokhara
The South Asian Life & Times, India
Nepal is not considered a golfing destination and certainly is not high on most ‘must play’ lists. Trekkers and climbers are more at home here, with Everest, Annapurna, Lhotse & Nuptse, and hundred other peaks in their peripheral vision.
Royal Thimphu Golf Club, Bhutan
The South Asian Life & Times, India
The narrow fairways of this 35-year-old Himalayan course, surfaced a great underdog success story from Bhutan last year – Ziwang Gurung, a 16-year-old boy who worked here as a caddy and hit shots in his free time, was sent to Vietnam for a qualifier for the Faldo Series, the World Cup of junior golf, in September. He finished second in the 12- to 15-year-old division, and will now play in the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final in China in March (25th to 27th).
Awards | Pevonia aisaSpa India Awards 2008
asiaSpa India, India
An evening brimming with energy, celebrations and champagne toasts, the second Pevonia asiaSpa India Awards at the Leela Kempinski Gurgaon were a toast to the brightest and best names in the spa industry. Here are some special moments from the show.
asiaSpa India, India
When it comes to skin care, don't play dumb. Smarten up. asiaSpa tells you how.
asiaSpa India, India
Serving up a cocktail of peace and pleasure for years, Club Med Bali is where you should head for good times.
Spa Personality | The First Lady
asiaSpa India, India
Get up and close with Neelam Khanna who demystified spa culture in India with the first spa destination here, Ananda in the Himalayas. She is our Spa Personality.
Wellness Home | Elemental Harmony
asiaSpa India, India
Use the five elements of life to create a balance of holistic wellness in your home. AsiaSpa shows you some great ways to create a house charged up with positive energy.
Dare to Dream | Virtuoso Villa
asiaSpa India, India
Sip your favourite French wine on the terrace of this luxurious villa, overlooking the stunning Pampelonne Bay. Or sunbathe in its garden followed by a refreshing dip in its aquamarine swimming pool.
asiaSpa India, India
Escape the bustle of the city to enjoy some rare treats like Cashew and Moroccan Spice Body Scrub at Spa Oasis, The Grand, New Delhi.
asiaSpa India, India
Enjoy the hottest entrée in spa menu, hot stone therapy, at R the Spa at Radisson Hotel New Delhi.
asiaSpa India, India
Hills have always been a preferred destination for wellness. Discover a new you at Sansha Ayurvedic Health Spa, Jaypee Residency Manor, in the heart of picturesque Mussoorie.
Lifelines | Lost and Found - Atlantis
asiaSpa India, India
Shark thrills, friendly dolphin experiences, scrumptious food, elegant abode, stylish boutiques� Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai is a fairytale in brick and mortar.
Lifelines | Harmony of mind and body - Club Mahindra
asiaSpa India, India
Ayurveda spas have found a new address, Goa. Let's take you to Svaastha Spa at Club Mahindra, Goa to tell you what else you can do in this beach state.
Lifelines | Fresh Appeal - Le Meridien
asiaSpa India, India
Chintz, archery and yoga, Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort in Thailand sprouts unlikely surprises for guests.
Lifelines | Customised comfort - Martinez
asiaSpa India, India
Looking for a perfect spa break? Head for Hotel Martinez on the palm-shaded beach promenade in Cannes.
Cover Story | Shobhaa De Spa Diva
asiaSpa India, India
Writer, columnist and media personality beyond compare, Shobhaa De embraces age with amazing grace.
asiaSpa India, India
Angsana Day Spa | One Sprit, Two Spas
asiaSpa India, India
Tucked away in Bangalore, Angsana Day Spa is all about luxurious treatments, magnificent ambience and pure beauty and p
Spa Harnn | Spa for Just-Too-Tired Shoppers
asiaSpa India, India
After winning accolades from spa lovers from all over the world, HARNN, the natural home spa products brand is here in India. Go indulge yourself.
Vital Signs | Chilly - Fiery little things
asiaSpa India, India
Native to Bolivia, chillies come in a variety of species, ranging from the mild bell pepper, to the medium jalape�o to the rough-skinned naga jolokia or bhoot jholokia which are rated as the hottest in the world. Though considered vegetable, chillies are generally used as a spice in culinary delights. They have an interesting history too.
Vital Signs | Lemon - Fresh and Juicy
asiaSpa India, India
Its tangy taste will make you passionate about anything sour! The juicy lemon will always leave you asking for more. The Citrus limon or lemon belongs to the family rutaceae.
Business Travel Still On Track
feBusinessTraveller, India
Low-cost carriers have, no doubt, spread their wings far and wide. But when it comes to short distance travel, it is the Indian Railways that still holds sway for the business traveller, especially after the Railway Budget 2006-07. Reema Sisodia finds out
AFL launches India's first retail chain
feBusinessTraveller, India
AFL, provider of integrated supply chain services in India, has launched AFL TouchWorld, India's first 'Convenience Services' retail chain. The various services offered at this store include forex, money transfer, international telephony, international an
New Search Engine For Best Travel Deals
feBusinessTraveller, India
A new search engine, Travelguru, for the best travel-related deals and prices has been launched recently by Ashwin Damera, its CEO and co-founder along with Ganesh Rengaswamy. The travel solutions company claims to be the first to quote prices inclusive o
Jet To Introduce Online System For Tracing Missing Baggage
feBusinessTraveller, India
Jet Airways will become the first Indian airline to offer the facility of tracing missing baggage online to passengers. By means of this facility passengers can now check the status of their missing or delayed baggage through the worldwide computerised ba
Aircraft Fractional Ownership By Club One Air
feBusinessTraveller, India
Club One Air, Asia's first Aircraft Fractional Ownership company has launched its services in Mumbai. It will provide Mumbai's industry captains a chance to own an aircraft at a fraction of the actual cost and run it as per their own requirement.
Shubh Yatra’ For Frequent Train Travellers
feBusinessTraveller, India
The Indian Railways has flagged off an initiative - Shubh Yatra - for those who travel frequently by trains. This scheme for frequent travellers has been launched through its subsidiary IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation Limited) in join
Emirates to fly to Bangalore from October ’06
feBusinessTraveller, India
Emirates has announced its plans to start services to Bangalore, effective 29 October 2006. It will launch eight flights a week to Bangalore, offering a total weekly capacity of 2,108 seats in each direction. By the end of this year, Emirates would have l
Etihad Connects Abu Dhabi To Manchester, Muscat
feBusinessTraveller, India
feBusinessTraveller, India
Air Deccan has announced daily schedules between Chennai and Tuticorin, and Hyderabad and Rajahmundry from 1 April 2006. The launch of the Chennai-Tuticorin flight was delayed due to pending clearances from government authorities. Bookings have been open
feBusinessTraveller, India
Tushiv presents an exclusive patented collection of three-dimensional holographic sculptures inspired by ancient cultural and religious symbols of Asia especially India. Indian gods like Krishna, Ganesha, Mahavira and Buddha form a part of the exquisitely
Where There's A Rail There’s A Way
feBusinessTraveller, India
Rationalising travel costs rather than cutting them is what Indian corporates are opting for today and the reduction in fringe benefit tax from 20 per cent to 5 per cent in this year's financial budget has brought some cheer to India Inc. However, the int
feBusinessTraveller, India
Give some, take some' has been the new motto of the Centre - a stance that has been clearly vindicated through both the recent and last year's Union Budget. Savio Rodrigues takes a look at the new changes on fringe benefit tax and service tax, and its imp
feBusinessTraveller, India
Taj Chandigarh, located in Sector-17, heart of the city's business district is a recent addition to the Taj Hotels portfolio. The hotel with 149 rooms offers a range of dining facilities, interesting leisure options and first class business amenities in a
In Accordance With Luxury And Comfort
feBusinessTraveller, India
Chennai is fast transforming into a prominent Meetings Incentives Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) destination and a hub for business travellers and the growing number of chic business hotels in the city is a testimony to this trend. An embodiment of ma
feBusinessTraveller, India
Not as exciting as walking on the moon, but it comes close. Bhavika Jhaveri takes you through a underwater excursion on the virgin Baina beach in Goa
Calendar Of Major Trade Shows in May’06
feBusinessTraveller, India
European Business Aviation is the premier business and service event for aircraft maintenance, ground support and FBO services.
feBusinessTraveller, India
Come join me on a walk back in time. Let’s get a taste of the previous centuries as we zigzag our way through the gallis of Old Delhi's historic Chandni Chowk. Should you have the time and the inclination then you must give your tastebuds a treat. Today I
feBusinessTraveller, India
The food here is prepared with great attention to detail - both by way of the unstinting use of ingredients and spices which are ground, pounded (no readymade mixes) and the laborious hours spent in simmering the curries to achieve the distinct flavour. T
feBusinessTraveller, India
The metro-sexual man is as interested in his appearance as his female counterpart. In this race of being groomed, the bold is slowly morphing into the beautiful as well. Priya Krishnaswamy reports
feBusinessTraveller, India
feBusinessTraveller, India
It is where the tuk tuks run parallel to the sky trains and tiny food joints are as popular as Burger King. Experiencing Bangkok's confluence of traditional and the contemporary, Hazel Jain comes away mesmerised.
feBusinessTraveller, India
From the deep surreal blue of Bay of Bengal to Indians whipping up tasty steak grille or gratin de legumes faster than tandoori chicken, the myriad facets of Pondicherry intrigue Preeti Kannan
feBusinessTraveller, India
This alpine resort surrounded by mist and mountains, offers a soul-embalming experience where one can bond with nature, say Gustasp and Jeroo Irani
Stress on the Happiness Factor
feBusinessTraveller, India
In current times, stress is synonymous with hectic work schedules and an even more hectic lifestyle. Bibhas Chatterjee gets to the heart of the matter and meditates on the ways we can deal with this new age phenomenon
feBusinessTraveller, India
The most famous resident of the Bandipur Tiger Reserve, the wild elephant, remained elusive to Achal Dhruva but his forays on foot in the outskirts of the reserve were much more rewarding
A Blend Of Genius, Power & Magic
feBusinessTraveller, India
Running a delicate framework of an organisation, that of human resource is not a cakewalk - it takes a rare knack, zeal, acuteness and loads of patience to tackle this fickle area. Hari Thalapalli, senior VP (HR) at Satyam Computer Services Limited is loa
feBusinessTraveller, India
Explore the enchanting Chamonix Valley, a majestic world of high mountains with breathtaking view of the Mont Blanc range and alpine beauty of France with the Chomonix Summer package of Cox & Kings. Apart from the picturesque hamlets along Alpine Lakes, t
Express Travel World, India
The portfolio of Kumari Selja, the Minister of Tourism, Government of India, reads as Housing, Urban Poverty Alleviation & Tourism. Though it features last in the portfolio line up, one can only wish that she does not put tourism at the bottom of her prio
Post-DGCA intervention, associations get support from bigger operators
Express Travel World, India
After a meeting with the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the trade associations of TAAI, TAFI and ETAA recently held an 'informal' meeting with multinational travel agencies and big tour operators in Mumbai and Delhi to strengthen their case ag
ADTOI wants joint Budget proposals with other associations
Express Travel World, India
While the norm is for different trade associations to issue individual sets of memorandum annually and propose to the tourism ministry for consideration in the annual budget, this year the Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI) is trying
Manipur govt looks to lift Protected Area Permit
Express Travel World, India
In a bid to attract foreign tourists to the state, the government of Manipur is negotiating with the Centre to lift the Protected Area Permit (PAP) requirement. The state is currently under the protected area regime under the Foreigners (Protected Areas)
easemytrip.com to empower traders as franchisees
Express Travel World, India
New Delhi-based Easy Trip Planners' easemytrip.com is enabling traders, who frequently fly for business, to become its agents through franchise retail outlets. The business platform allows them to book their air tickets and earn commissions as well. Nisha
ATE '09 views swine flu, economic crisis, as temporary setback
Express Travel World, India
The Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) 2009 which took place for the Eastern hemisphere in Melbourne in June aimed to send out a clear message - that the current concerns facing the industry are only temporary and that Australia is keen to get back to busi
We've had incremental business in the non-air front'
Express Travel World, India
To a large extent, the online travel agents have been looked upon purely as an online ticketing agent. However, things seem to be changing, believes Neelu Singh, COO, ezeego1.com. Speaking to Express TravelWorld, she says, "Our focus has been purely on bo
Express Travel World, India
Leading Hotels of the World will reward its travel consultants and meeting planners in the Asia Pacific region. With every reservation made through The Leading Hotels of the World, agents will increase their chances to win an exclusive holiday to the dest
Express Travel World, India
The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2009 can be rightly described as an event that aimed at sending across the message that the Middle East market (especially in the business of travel, aviation and hospitality) though currently under the weather, is waiting
Express Travel World, India
With higher disposable income, the Indian market is an exciting one for courting leisure travellers. This edition of Abacus' ten-city road show, covering Calicut, Kochi and Thiruvanathapuram showcases solutions to cater successfully to this segment
Express Travel World, India
Some are of the opinion that Germans are very organised - almost to the point of being mechanical. Whether there is any truth in that, I cannot say, but this year's German Travel Mart (GTM 2009) did impress me. It not only exemplified a well-organised tra
Express Travel World, India
With a stable government at the Centre, the travel industry has huge expectations on the Union Budget 2009-10 which is to be presented on July 3, 2009. Express TravelWorld spoke to presidents of various trade associations about their outlook on the upcomi
Express Travel World, India
Being hospitable comes naturally to people of a country where guest is considered as sacred as god. The concept of home-stays on its part isn't unheard of and there's much more talk now about promoting it as a serious business.
Express Travel World, India
Air Proxy has appointed Maanus Mätlik as its MD. He replaces Helena Roots. Mätlik has 14 years' experience in the freight sector, having held a number of sales and operational posts at ASG and its successors Danzas and DHL, before joining Estonian company
Express Travel World, India
French Ambassador Jerome Bonnafont (right) becomes the first guest at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach. He is seen here with Jean-Michel Casse, senior VP of Accor India
Switzerland Travel Mart 2009 - A showcase
Express Travel World, India
A New Era Has Dawned for Sri Lanka Tourism
Asian Traveller, India
The defeat of terrorism and successful end of war in Sri Lanka has certainly lifted the spirits of all and sundry
Thailand Unveils Marketing Strategy to Attract Business Events
Asian Traveller, India
The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has unveiled three strategic initiatives to boost awareness and confidence in Thailand as a dynamic business event destination. The "Meetings More Memorable and
Asian Traveller, India
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has aggressive plans to tap the Wedding Tourism segment from India. TAT India has formulated a special scheme to be launched specially for the Wedding Tourism segment. Under this scheme, if the couple gets married in Thailand
Sri Lanka Benefits From Using .travel
Asian Traveller, India
Global Travel & Tourism Summit Ends on an Optimistic Note
Asian Traveller, India
The recently concluded 9th Global Travel & Tourism Summit by the World Travel & Tourism Council held in Florianópolis, Brazil has once again reaffirmed its integral role in today's business of travel and tourism. There was a high number of delegate
WTTC Announces Winners of Tourism for Tomorrow Awards
Asian Traveller, India
The Tourism for Tomorrow Awards was presented at the annual Global Travel & Tourism Summit, held in Florianopolis, capital of the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina. The 2009 winners are Grupo PUNTACANA, Dominican Republic - Destination Stewardship Award, NatureAir, Costa Rica - Conservation Award, Zakoura Foundation for Micro-Credits, Morocco for Community Benefit Award and Marriott International Inc, USA and Global won the Global Tourism Business Award.
Hiran Cooray, Chairman-Elect of PATA for 2010-11
Asian Traveller, India
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced Hiran Cooray, the Chairman of the JETWING brand as its Chairman Elect for 2010-11. Hiran Cooray has been bestowed this honour at the Annual General Meeting of PATA, held in April. This is the first time a Sri Lankan will take up this high office, in PATA.
World Tourism in the Face of Global Economic Crisis and Influenza Threat
Asian Traveller, India
International tourism demand has deteriorated further due to the impact of the global economic recession. International tourist arrivals declined at a rate of 8 per cent between January and February this year, leaving the overall volume at the same level as recorded in 2007. At the same time,
ATM Concludes on an Optimistic Note
Asian Traveller, India
Arabian Travel Market 2009 the Middle East's premier travel and tourism event has ended with senior industry figures predicting the region would defy current global economic conditions to buck world-wide trends and international downturns in travel to record solid growth.
UNWTO Gets New Secretary General
Asian Traveller, India
Dr. Taleb Rifai, former Tourism Minister of Jordan, has been elected as new Secretary. General of United Nations World Tourism
Asian Traveller, India
The 16th edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM 2009), the Middle East's premier travel and tourism exhibition, will be held from 5 to 8 May at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The event's signature awards scheme, the New Frontiers Awards, will be staged for the fourth time in 2009. Presented to a destination that has made a remarkable recovery and positive contribution to tourism development in the face of the overwhelming adversity, the award, which is chosen by a panel of judges consisting of regional and international industry professionals, is one of the show's highlights.
Three Finalists Announced for New Frontiers Awards
Asian Traveller, India
Reed Travel Exhibitions, the organizers of ATM 2009, has announced China, Mumbai and Palestine as the top three finalists for the 2009 New Frontiers Awards.
Asian Traveller, India
The 2009 edition of ITB Berlin which concluded in Berlin on March 15 saw 110,000 trade visitors, of which 42 per cent were from abroad. The industry experts think that in times of crisis more market players are making increasing use of the world's leading platform for the industry.
Asian Traveller, India
Singapore has been ranked as the highest-ranked country in Asia, and 10th out of 133 countries measured for the attractiveness of their environments in developing the travel and tourism industry, according to the World Economic Forum’s latest Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2009.
ITB World Travel Trends Report 2009
Asian Traveller, India
Asia's final outbound travel figures for 2008 and prospects for 2009 have been revealed in the ITB World Travel Trends Report 2009 which was presented at ITB Future Day on March 11, 2009. Internet bookings will surge, demand for online virtual, meetings will gather pace, domestic travel will stay stable or grow, as will demand for low cost flights
WTTC Unveils 2009 Economic Impact Report
Asian Traveller, India
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the results of its 2009 Economic Impact Research at its annual ITB Berlin press conference in the presence of industry leaders from different sectors of travel and tourism - high-level government representatives, and its research partner Oxford Economics.
WTM to Run Summer Travel Conference
Asian Traveller, India
World Travel Market will be hosting a summer conference focusing on the global travel market in June at Portland Place, London. The half day WTM Vision event will incorporate a worldwide industry overview, debates on responsible tourism and a comprehensive review of the UK outbound market.
TAAI Managing Committee Visits Dubai
Asian Traveller, India
The management committee team of Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) have visited Dubai on a three-day familiarization tour aimed at further promoting Dubai as a value-for-money destination targeting the Indian outbound travellers.
ITB Berlin Expected to Set New Attendance Record
Asian Traveller, India
ITB Berlin will provide impressive confirmation of its significance as the global travel industry's leading trade show. The fair which will take place from March11 to 15 this year, the fair management is expecting some 11,000 exhibiting companies and organisations from more than 180 countries in the 26 halls on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds.
WTTC Announces Finalists for 2009 Awards
Asian Traveller, India
The World Travel and Tourism Council recently announced the 12 finalists for the 2009 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards. The Awards recognize best practices in sustainable tourism in four different categories - Destination Stewardship, Conservation, Community Benefit and Global Tourism Business
Asian Traveller, India
Continuing its efforts to expedite the revival of the Thai travel and tourism industry, the Royal Thai government has agreed to exempt the fee for tourist visa applications for a three month period, effective 5 March, 2009 to 4 June, 2009.
IT&CM China 2009 Draws Biggest Chinese Participation
Asian Traveller, India
IT&CM (Incentive Travel & Conventions, Meetings) China returns to Shanghai in April for the third year with a bigger Chinese contingent. Show organisers - TTG Asia Media and MP International, have confirmed the participation of four of China’s tourism hotspots in the all-encompassing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) tradeshow.
Corporate Social Responsibility Day
Asian Traveller, India
This year, in addition to the ITB Aviation Day and the ITB Hospitality Day, the ITB Berlin Convention is for the first time organising a Corporate Social Responsibility Day (CSR) for the tourism industry. The global travel industry's leading trade show will present the first empirical survey on CSR and travel at the CSR Day on 12 March 2009, in collaboration with GfK. Leading speakers will also be presenting and talking about their practical experiences
One Third of Leisure Travellers Say Plans Not Affected by Economy
Asian Traveller, India
Despite economic turbulence worldwide, the Asia Pacific tourism industry has received a welcome boost from data contained in the Visa and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Asia Pacific Travel Intentions Survey 'Determining Travel Preferences in 2009 and Beyond'. The survey found that, of the 5,554 people surveyed, 36 percent said they did not expect to make any changes to their travel plans in the near future while 64 percent of respondents were reviewing their plans in the light of economic uncertainty.
Activities that You Just Cannot Miss In Philippines
Asian Traveller, India
The Philippines offers countless destinations to see, adventures to experience and activities to do. The country is blessed with a rich
Skills Training to Boost Business Event Sector in Asia
Asian Traveller, India
UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, is promoting its 2009 exhibition management degree course to boost Asia's skill base in the highly competitive business event industry. The 2009 UFI Exhibition Management Degree (UFI-EMD) course will be
Asian Traveller, India
The third IT&CM China event will be the platform for international and leading Chinese players in the MICE industry to explore exciting business opportunities, generate new sales leads and strengthen business partnerships with existing clients.
Singapore Visas Now Available in 24 Hrs
Asian Traveller, India
Singapore Tourism Board has launched e-visas across India, which will be introduced shortly across the country by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The new facility will now reduce the time for Indian travellers to obtain a Singapore visa, giving a general boost to both leisure and business travel alike. This much-awaited initiative, aimed at introducing hassle-free visa facilities, will commence on April 2009.
SLTDA plans Rest Houses and Holiday Resorts for Budget Travellers
Asian Traveller, India
In keeping with the Narambamu Sri Lanka project launched by the Ministry of Tourism, in partnership with Sri Lanka Tourism, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has initiated a campaign to refurbish the existing, SLTDA owned rest houses and holiday resorts. The Narambamu Sri Lanka project singularly aims to spur interest in domestic tourism, and encourage Sri Lankans to travel within our own country, discovering lesser known attractions among the more widely known, and popular sites of historic and cultural interest.
Malaysia Targets Six Lakh Tourists from India
Asian Traveller, India
Malaysia Tourism plans to attract at least six lakh travellers from India in 2009. According to Zulkefli Sharif, Director – South Asia, West Asia and Africa Division, Malaysia Tourism Development Board, Malaysia, a delegation from that country, comprising tour operators and hoteliers, is scheduled to meet their counterparts in India and explore mutual business opportunities and to offer new packages featuring new itineraries, fresh locales focusing beyond Kuala Lumpur tourism products. “India is the sixth most prominent tourism source market for us,” said Sharif. Pricing a two-night-three-day package at Rs 20,000 a person (which includes travel, stay and food), the country targets beyond metros at cash-rich tier-II and tier-III cities in India.
Thailand Targets School Tours from the Middle East
Asian Traveller, India
Exploring and developing lucrative niches in established source markets is an intelligent response to the global recession. A great recent example is the Tourism
10 Unique Venues for MICE Travellers in Singapore
Asian Traveller, India
With an array of interesting venues, teambuilding activities and inspiring experiences for rewarding and motivating MICE (Corporate Meetings, Incentive Trips, Conventions and Exhibitions) groups, Singapore is fast becoming the natural choice for business combined with pleasure and entertainment.
First Non-Profit Luxury Eco-Resort
Asian Traveller, India
The first non-profit and luxury eco-resort to commit 100 percent of operating profits to environmental protection and social improvements will be built on a 124-acre private island in the Calamianes archipelago, at the northernmost tip of the Palawan Biosphere Reserve in the Philippines. The property, named Cacao Pearl, will occupy an entire private island, with 124 acres of lush rainforest and towering coconut trees fringed with over a mile of pristine beaches, according to its operator, Cacao Resorts.
Asian Destinations Popular Among Indian Travellers
Asian Traveller, India
With growing disposable incomes, increasing numbers of Indians are travelling abroad for leisure and business. Asian countries are their most popular destinations according to the Nielsen India Outbound Travel Monitor 2008, conducted in partnership with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).
Inaugural ITB Asia Attendance Exceeds Expectations
Asian Traveller, India
The inaugural ITB Asia B2B travel show closed in Singapore with 6,208 delegates joining the three-day event. The attendance was 24.2 per cent more than the 5,000 anticipated by event organiser, Messe Berlin.
PTM 2008 Hyderabad An Unmatched Success
Asian Traveller, India
The current edition of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart held at Hyderabad International Convention Centre, India has been a great success with the tremendous participations, volume business generation, supplementary events and the superior quality of the international event.
Asian Traveller, India
According to a leading European leisure travel company, Asia and Russia offers a huge growth opportunity for the future. Peter Long, CEO of TUI Travel PLC, speaking at the ITB Asia Convention said, "We expect to see another 600 to 700 million people travelling from and within Asia over the next five years - and mainly to other Asian destinations."
IT&CMA and CTW Trade Exhibition Concludes
Asian Traveller, India
The IT&CMA and CTW trade exhibition and conference held at the brand new Bangkok Convention Centre (BCC) at CentralWorld from October 7 to 9 has concluded on a high note. The tone for the 16th IT&CMA (Incentive Travel & Conventions, Meetings Asia) and 11th CTW (Corporate Travel World) Asia-Pacific has been set with this year's theme, "New Frontiers- Optimise Returns".
Positive Digital Storm Brewing
Asian Traveller, India
A"positive digital storm" is being created that will bring unprecedented opportunities and power to online travel companies. That was the assessment delivered by Philip Wolf, President & CEO of PhoCusWright, a US-based travel industry research company. He told delegates at the ITB Asia Convention that unlike a "perfect storm" which had negative connotations, the imminent "positive digital storm" would allow companies to solve big problems for customers, exploit fantastic advances in technology, and avoid skills-focused decision making and business model preservation. The number of agency locations has declined and their market share has slipped. Facing significant upheaval in their industry, many in the agency community have had to respond strategically, tactically and - most of all - aggressively, to adapt, survive and succeed.
India Gets New Tourism Minister
Asian Traveller, India
Kumari Selja is India's new Tourism Minister. Indian President, Pratibha Patil administered the oath as Cabinet
ITTE 2010 to Promote India Globally
Asian Traveller, India
UBM India (a part of United Business Media Limited, which is a leading global business media company)and the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) has announced the most eagerly awaited event for the Indian travel trade industry, India Travel Trade Expo, which will be held from 18th to 20th February 2010 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai
MGTO Organises Trade Workshop in Mumbai and Delhi
Asian Traveller, India
The Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO), India has recently organised trade workshops in Mumbai (on April 8, 2009 at Hotel Inter Continental, Marine Drive) and in New Delhi (on April 29, 2009 at Hotel Le Meridien). The aim of the workshop was to educate and update the travel trade fraternity on the existing and upcoming tourism facilities at Macau, apart from showcasing Macau as a family & MICE destination.
TN Mulls Website in Other Languages
Asian Traveller, India
The Tamil Nadu Tourism is planning to introduce its website in other Indian languages as the state is becoming popular among tourists in the virtual world. The Tamil version of the site was launched recently and the Hindi,
Asian Traveller, India
Arvind Jadhav, IAS, has assumed charge as the new Chairman and Managing Director of National Aviation Company of India Limited (NACIL). Jadhav was earlier Principal Secretary, Infrastructure Development Department, and Government of Karnataka. Jadhav joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1978 and belongs to the Karnataka cadre.
Bharat Hotels to Unveil Resort at Bekal
Asian Traveller, India
The Lalit Resort & Spa at Bekal, a Bharat Hotels undertaking, is nearing completion at Bekal in Kerala. It is coming up in one of the resort sites of the Bekal Resorts Development Corporation.
AVIAREPS to Promote Disney Destinations in India
Asian Traveller, India
Disney Destinations has appointed AVIAREPS as its new sales and marketing representative in India. The Mumbai-based AVIAREPS subsidiary will be responsible for maximising exposure and sales through Indian consumer and travel trade channels.
TN to Promote Rural Tourism in a Big Way
Asian Traveller, India
Under the theme of ‘Enchanting Tamilnadu’, the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) plans a wide range of unique experiences for tourists who are willing to explore the rural Tamil Nadu
TN to Promote Rural Tourism in a Big Way
Asian Traveller, India
The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) plans to focus on promoting Religious Tourism in the state. In addition to its existing pilgrim-cum-tourist spots like Tirupati and Bhadrachalam,
Chithirai - Festival of Madurai
Asian Traveller, India
The Chithirai festival, one of the renowned attractions in Tamil Nadu is held at the Madurai temple, 500-km from Chennai. The festivity starts on the full moon day of the Tamil month Chithirai (April-May) and ends on the tenth day. The celebration is filled with pomp and festivity.
MoT Announces Incentives for Visit India Year 2009
Asian Traveller, India
The Ministry of Tourism has undertaken a series of confidence building measures to minimize the negative impact of the recent global economic meltdown followed by the terrorist attack in Mumbai and to promote tourism to India. Incentives are also being offered to give a boost to the travel industry in the country.
Demand For Hotel Rooms In India May Rise
Asian Traveller, India
According to a report released by global property consultants, Cushman & Wakefield demand for hotel rooms in India in the organised sector is expected to post a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8-10 per cent a year by 2011. This includes 5- star deluxe, 5-star, 4-star and 3-star categories. The average supply CAGR is estimated to be nearly 22 per cent a year over the same period (2008-2011).
Galileo, HKTB Join Hands to Reward Opportunities for Travel Agencies
Asian Traveller, India
Galileo, a leading Global Distribution System (GDS) and Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), has announced a joint initiative to reward the Indian travel trade. This first of a kind programme utilizes the strength of the GDS distribution to augment the Indian arrivals into Hong Kong. The 60-day activity targetes at over 6,000 agencies in 11,000 touch points, which are spread at 333 cities in India.
TTDC to Upgrade 20 Loss Making Hotels
Asian Traveller, India
Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) plans to improve profitability by upgrading its hotels and restaurants. About 20 loss-making hotels have been franchised for over a period of 10 to 15 years. The state has approved the proposal of franchising 30 hotels and seven restaurants. Small hotels with five rooms are franchised for 10 years and bigger ones for 15 years. TTDC is allocating Rs 200 crore for development of tourism every year and has spent about Rs three crore this year for upgradation of hotels. TTDC has three main operations, namely hotels, transport and fairs. The department has 54 hotels and 11 restaurants under its control.
IRCTC, Cox & Kings launch Luxury Train Co
Asian Traveller, India
The Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation and Cox and Kings India Ltd. had set up a company called the Royale Indian Rail Tours Ltd., to manage and operate the first pan-India luxury tourist train, scheduled to start operations in the third quarter of 2009. The train will carry nearly 100 passengers in 15 passenger coaches and will have two bars and two restaurants. It will have an ultra modern kitchen and a boutique. Of the two seven night itineraries planned for the train the first is the Princely India Tour starting from Mumbai to Delhi via Ahmedabad, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Jaipur. The second is the Classical India tour through Delhi-Agra-Gwalior-Khajuraho-Varanasi and Patna.
Asian Traveller, India
Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, the state corporation running hotels and resorts has been transformed to a company; Kerala Hotels and Resorts Ltd. The decision was taken a cabinet meeting of the Kerala government. The move was to avoid confusion of the clients as the name does not suit a hotel and resort chain and many others took advantage of it, according to a release. The company will be retained by the Government will serve better in terms of marketing.
Groundservices.ca Appoints AVIAREPS as GSA in India
Asian Traveller, India
Groundservices.ca a reputed and leading global online travel service & distribution solution company has appointed AVIAREPS as their General Sales Agent in India. As part of the mandate AVIAREPS will be responsible for all sales marketing and PR activities in India on behalf of Groundservices.ca and Abreub2b.com. Groundservices.ca has introduced the revolutionary concept of 'Assist Cards' especially designed for Indian tourists. Assist Card will help travellers have a hassle free travel experience, with travel assistance for tourist in over 170 countries
Punjab Hires UNWTO Consultants To Develop Tourism
Asian Traveller, India
Punjab has hired services of international consultants from UNWTO to develop tourism in the state. The consultants have already arrived in the state to conduct the research. At the end of their study they will submit a master plan for the development of tourism in Punjab
Lemon Tree Plans Rs 1,200 crore Investment in India
Asian Traveller, India
Lemon Tree Hotels, plans to set up a chain of pan-India hotels, investing Rs. 1200 crore. As per the capex plan, the company intends to have 20 hotels aggregating 2,500 rooms by 2011. There will be hotels coming up in 15 major cities in India, including South Delhi,, Gurgaon, East Delhi, Pune, Goa, Alleppey, Indore, Aurangabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Shimla and Ahmedabad
Taj Group to Expand Serviced Apartments Business
Asian Traveller, India
The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), which owns the Taj Group of Hotels, plans to expand the serviced apartments business. It also plans to widen the portfolio of its wildlife resorts. According to reports this is part of IHCL's strategy of doubling the number of its rooms to more than 20,000 in four years. IHCL is in advanced stages of exploring the opportunity of setting up about 700 serviced apartments across various cities in the current year. The company is also expanding its international presence by setting up hotels in Thailand and South Africa apart from having clinched two management contracts in West Asia at Dubai and Saraya Island respectively
Lulu Group ties up with Marriot Hotels
Asian Traveller, India
The $3-billion Lulu Group has entered into a management contract with Marriot Hotels to run the 20-story 300-room business hotel property now under construction in Kochi. The hotel is coming up as part of the Rs 1,200-crore hypermarket-multiplex-airlines tower complex, which is being built by the Dubai-based group. The Group, which has 70 outlets spread across the Gulf countries
Suchirindia Diversifies into Theme Parks, Budget Hotels
Asian Traveller, India
Suchirindia Developers is diversifying into entertainment, hospitality and theme parks. It is in the process of setting up a casino in Colombo. The company is awaiting necessary clearances for the casino from the Sri Lankan Government. Suchirindia has announced the Papyrus Port, an Egyptian resort-type theme park, about 15 km from the new international airport, with an investment of Rs 20 crore. It plans to invest Rs 40 crore for the second phase.
Taj GVK Launches Property in Chennai
Asian Traveller, India
Taj GVK Hotels and Resorts Ltd on Monday launched its new property in Chennai - Taj Mount Road. The hotel, with three restaurants, a bar and a host of other facilities, is positioned as a five-star business class hotel. The seven-floor property has 220 rooms, including 16 suites and a presidential suite. The property, which was acquired from Sri Tripurasundari Hotels Ltd in 2004, was originally planned to be launched in 2006. The Chennai property is Taj GVK's fifth hotel in the country. It has three hotels in Hyderabad and one in Chandigarh.
UNESCO to Showcase Chettinad Heritage
Asian Traveller, India
Chettinad - the cultural heritage region in Tamil Nadu is all set for a major transformation with UNESCO pledging to preserve and promote it as a heritage zone.
TTDC Plans to Renovate All Its Hotels and Resorts
Asian Traveller, India
The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) is planning to renovate all its hotels and resorts and bring them on par with star category hotels. All 25 TTDC-owned hotels in the state will be renovated at a cost of Rs six crore. Renovation for Mamallapuram Resort alone will cost about Rs two crore.
Bullock Cart Rides For French in Karaikudi
Asian Traveller, India
Embarking on an innovative approach for creating employment opportunities, especially for women and disadvantaged groups, a tourism project has been launched to revive art, culture and craft of this region of Tamil Nadu. Termed as "tourism of a different kind", villagers offer bullock cart rides to visitors, including foreigners, while playing hosts. Besides the bullock cart ride, visitors are also treated to the rich culture of Chettinad, including its unique architecture, cuisine and folk dances
Welcomheritage Signs Six More Heritage Properties
Asian Traveller, India
India’s fastest growing chain of heritage hotels & Resorts, WelcomHeritage, a joint venture between ITC and Marudhar Hotels of HH Jodhpur, has announced six new additions to the chain. With these additions, the WelcomHeritage chain goes up to 60 properties, spread across 19 states in India.
KTDC Hotels and Resorts Targets Global Customers
Asian Traveller, India
The KTDC Hotels and Resorts, formerly known as the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation
Bekal Becoming an International Travel Destination
Asian Traveller, India
The encouraging signs of developmental activities at Bekal, one of Kerala's well-known beach destinations are sure indications of it becoming a destination of international repute in the near future.
Mobile Phone to Become A Key Publicity Tool
Asian Traveller, India
Along with the popular radio and television mediums, Kerala Tourism has resorted to the emerging popular medium of mobile phones to invite the attention of domestic tourists to Kerala.
The Sounds of Kerala to Hit Radio Waves in Key Metros
Asian Traveller, India
Never shy to try a new or innovative idea, Kerala Tourism, has associated with Radio Mirchi to promote the state to listeners in New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Bangalore
MIR- Taking Liesure to New Dimensions
Asian Traveller, India
MIR Hotels & Resorts is the hospitality vertical of the South India based, INR 150 crore business house 'MIR Group' that has proven expertise in diversified sectors including tourism, real estate, consultancy, international trade, biotechnology, infrastructure and education.
Dentistry in the Time of Crisis
Asian Traveller, India
Have you ever heard the phrase "dental tourism?" To most people this combination of words doesn't sound too pleasing because the following question comes immediately to our minds: what do tourism and vacations have to do with cosmetic dentistry? The fact that they might not be obviously related doesn't mean that there is no connection between each other.
The Leela Kovalam Wins Pevonia Asia Spa Award
Asian Traveller, India
The Divya Spa at The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach was recently awarded the prestigious Pevonia Asia Spa Award for the Best Ayurvedic Spa (Hotel), 2008. Divya Spa features Ayurveda, an age old Indian science of life in contemporary settings which offers ancient remedies to today's needs. Instituted in 2005, the Pevonia Asia Spa Awards recognises exceptional and sensational spas in Asia
Leela Kovalam Introduces More Asian Cuisines
Asian Traveller, India
The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach resort becomes the first resort in Kerala having a restaurant the four Asian cuisines under a single roof. The Tides is also the first restaurant to have the combination of Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese and Malay Cuisine in south India
Kerala Tourism Steps into New Markets In Sweden And Russia
Asian Traveller, India
Kerala's beaches, backwaters and houseboats are key attractions that are being promoted in new markets prone to catch the God's Own Country' travel bug.
Asian Traveller, India
Owing to the grand success of the 2008 edition of the Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF), the Minister for Tourism, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan has announced the formation of Trade Fair Authority for the annual conduct of GKSF. The 2009 edition of GKSF will be conducted by this authority. According to the minister, GKSF proved that such an exercise can be successfully conducted with the support of various government departments as well as the business and trade community in the state. In the backdrop of Kerala now placed as a well-known travel destination in the world,
KTDC Launches City Tour in Thiruvananthapuram
Asian Traveller, India
Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has launched 'City Tour' (Nagara Darshan), which will give the visitors to the city a
NRKs to Partner in Tourism Growth of Kerala
Asian Traveller, India
The two-day event 'Ente Nadu' held in Kochi was an earnest effort by Kerala Tourism to join hands with the sizeable number of non-resident Keralites for giving a new direction and added growth to the tourism sector. The two-day meet held in Kochi had about 200 odd projects that came up for consideration,
Single Window System Mooted for Tourism Projects
Asian Traveller, India
To ensure the speedy implementation of various tourism related projects, Kerala Tourism will put into place a single window system with the Tourism Director as the nodal officer. This was one of the major announcements made at 'Ente Naadu' - the meeting of Non Resident Keralites recently held in Kochi. The Minister said that many investors had approached the state with big projects for the tourism sector
Kerala Plans Visit Kerala Year 2009
Asian Traveller, India
As part of its plans to attract visitors, especially from other states in India, Kerala Tourism plans a year-long umbrella package called 'Visit Kerala Year 2009' from January 2009. This was disclosed by Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Minister for Tourism, Kerala while addressing the meeting of Non-Resident Keralities (NRK) 'Ente Naadu' in Kochi.
Asian Traveller, India
Grand Kerala Shopping Festival 2009, the second edition of event highlighting the destination's shopping potential has been a success story and has bettered its first year records. The attractive discounts, gifts and the bumper prizes has pulled the crowds to the shops bearing the GKSF
Asian Traveller, India
A timely one and a new-year gift, the Online Reservation System (ORS) recently introduced by Kerala Tourism is expected to find a large user base, especially single property owners in the hospitality sector of Kerala. Once again, the facility has been the outcome of Kerala Tourism's successful ongoing partnership with the private sector.
My Country Initiative Unveiled
Asian Traveller, India
The My Country initiative or 'Ente Nadu' conference will be held at Le Meridien Convention centre in Kochi on December 23 and 24 and will be jointly organised by the state tourism and industry departments,
Asian Traveller, India
Kerala: A Poem in Green and Gold", a 250 page book published jointly by Kerala Tourism and Invis Infotech has been released recently. Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Minister for Tourism, released the book by handing over a copy to Cherian Philip, Chairman, KTDC. Written by K. Jayakumar , poet, lyricist and senior civil servant, the is a study into the rich social, cultural and political heritage of Kerala and provides the reader with an insight into the development of the state into an important tourist destination well described as "God's Own Country".
Single-Window System to Monitor Tourism Works
Asian Traveller, India
The Kerala Government is planning to introduce a single-window system to monitor and coordinate tourism development works being implemented by various departments, said the Minister for Home and Tourism, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. Answering questions in the State Assembly recently, the Minister said that the global economic crisis and the terrorist attacks in Mumbai had not yet affected tourist arrivals in the State. The Government had devised a new marketing strategy to overcome the crisis and promote the State as a safe tourism destination. Besides, Tourism Destination Development Councils had been set up.
Paathiramanal to Become a Bio-Park
Asian Traveller, India
Pathiramanal, a picturesque island in the Vembanadu Lake, is all set to become a bio-park. The project, which is meant to protect the natural beauty and environmental specialties of the place, has been inaugurated by V. S. Achuthanandan,
Kerala Sets Up Working Group to Study the Impact of Global Recession
Asian Traveller, India
Kerala Government has set up a working group to study the impact caused by the global financial crisis on Kerala tourism. The committee comprises four representatives of resorts in the State, three representatives of tour operators, one each from the travel media, houseboat and home-stay sectors
Hindustan Beach Retreat Leisure by the Reefs
Asian Traveller, India
Hindustan Beach Retreat, a beach hotel in Kerala’s emerging beach tourism circuit, Varkala, is perhaps the only resort to enjoy so much proximity to the sea. With 27 well appointed rooms, each one with a spectacular sea view, it lets you experience the sea at its best. An exotic seafood restaurant on the roof top,
Assam Unveils Its First Ever Tourism Policy
Asian Traveller, India
Assam Government has unveiled its first ever tourism policy.
MoT Initiates Development of Four Mega Destinations
Asian Traveller, India
Indian Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned integrated development of four mega destinations/circuits in the country as part of its development plans during the second quarter of 2008-09. They include (1) Hampi World Heritage Site, Karnataka (2) Heritage Tourist Circuit in Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh (3) Ganga Heritage River Cruise Circuit, West Bengal (4) Gangtok Mega Destination, Sikkim.
MoT Asks Tour Operators to Promote New Tourism Circuits
Asian Traveller, India
In continuation with its dialogue with the stake holders in the tourism sector in India to assess the impact of global meltdown, the Ministry of Tourism has held a meeting with Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) and Hotel Association of India (HAI). The seven member IATO delegation was led by its President
Asian Traveller, India
Kerala Tourism and Jet Airways have announced the launch of 'Jet2Kerala', a new domestic travel initiative at the Triden
Paramount Doubles Services to Kolkata
Asian Traveller, India
Paramount Airways, India's first premium service, all business class airline has announced a second daily service from Chennai to Kolkata following the high demand on its recently launched Kolkata flight. The new daily return will offer increased flexibility and convenience making it ideal for business travellers. The schedule is effective from May 14, 2009. The service will offer connections to Coimbatore, Madurai, Hyderabad, Cochin, Pune, Ahmedabad and Goa.
Paramount Airways Plans Foray into East
Asian Traveller, India
Paramount Airways, the Coimbatore based “all-business class airline”, is planning to launch operations in the eastern region in June with two-three daily flights between Chennai and Kolkata, said M. Thiagarajan, Managing Director.
Royal Jet Introduces Unique Personal Chef Services
Asian Traveller, India
Royal Jet, the international luxury flight services company headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has launched another ‘world-first’ by becoming the only private jet charter company to offer its guests a personal chef, providing them with bespoke gourmet dining based on their own individual preferences. The Royal Jet chefs offer pre-flight consultancy at the time of booking and are then available to travel with the clients for the entire duration of the journey.
Global Airport Traffic Remains Flat
Asian Traveller, India
Preliminary traffic results for 2008 show that for the full year, worldwide passenger traffic remained flat, thanks to strong growth in the first quarter which balanced the year-end Decemberline, whereas year-end results in the freight sector, which did not benefit from any significant surge in traffic during the year, retracted in 2008 (international freight -3%, domestic -7% and the worldwide average -4.5%).
Paramount Introduces Smart Flyer APEX Fares
Asian Traveller, India
Paramount Airways recently introduced another scheme, "Smart Flyer APEX Fares" which offers passengers to travel on all sectors in the South and West by booking tickets fifteen days ahead of travel. The lowest fare on the APEX Fare Scheme starts from INR 1825/- inclusive of all taxes, varying from sector to sector.
Bird Group Partners with VistaJet to Offer World Class Business Aviation Experience
Asian Traveller, India
Bird Group, India's fastest growing travel conglomerate has announced an exclusive marketing agreement with VistaJet Holding S.A. headquartered in Switzerland and the fastest growing business jet company outside North America. The agreement was signed by Ankur Bhatia, Executive Director, Bird Group and Ira Trivedi from VistaJet at Aero India 2009, Bangalore.
IBS Launches iFly Solution Suite
Asian Traveller, India
IBS Software, one of the leading providers of new-generation software solutions to the travel, transportation and logistics (TTL) industries, has launched the iFly, the next generation airline passenger services solution suite, which address the entire gamut of Passenger Service functionalities for airlines, including passenger reservations, airport departure control, loyalty & CRM, holidays & tours
AAI Receives Miniratna Category-I Powers
Asian Traveller, India
The Government of India has inducted four non-officio Directors to the Board of Airports Authority of India and with this restructuring AAI can now exercise its Miniratna Powers which was already been accorded to it last month. The non-official Directors include Deepak Parekh, CEO and Executive Chairman, Housing Development Finance Corporation, Hafeez Contractor, renowned Architect, Sajjan Jindal, Industrialist and Arun Bongirwar, former Chief Secretary of Maharashtra.
Singapore Airlines Introduces Promotional Offer to Popular Destinations
Asian Traveller, India
Singapore Airlines yesterday announced special New Year promotional offer to popular destinations this season. The new scheme offers customers to travel to select destinations as Singapore for Rs 16,830,
India, Malaysia Revises Air Services Agreement
Asian Traveller, India
Delegations representing the Governments of India and Malaysia met in New Delhi to discuss and revise air services between the two countries. The two countries have agreed that the designated airlines of each country shall be entitled to operate 20,410 seats per week in each direction on the routes specified in the respective Route Schedule with effect from Summer 2009, which include 5,620 to Delhi, 3,770 to Mumbai, 4,740 to Chennai, 1,000 to Kolkata, 2,730 to Bangalore, 2,550 to Hyderabad.
Paramount Launches Special Promotion
Asian Traveller, India
Paramount Airways recently announced the launch of its new promotion, A Special holiday bonanza offer. The offer allows passengers to purchase one Elite Business class ticket and receive a ticket for free (INR1500 payable for taxes and surcharge on the companion ticket). This offer is valid for travelling in the peak holiday season
Paramount Expands Further Into Western Region
Asian Traveller, India
Paramount Airways has launched daily flights Kochi to Pune via Chennai and from Chennai to Goa. The inagural flight from Chennai took off on October 22 and the Kochi Pune flight was launched on November 12.
Sarovar Hotels, IndiGo Airlines Announce Marketing Tie-up
Asian Traveller, India
Sarovar Hotels and IndiGo Airlines, a low-cost domestic airline, recently announced a marketing tie-up to offer customers the benefit of hassle free travel and stay. Through this tie up, Sarovar Hotels will sell combined holiday packages, which will include airfare, room, sightseeing, all meals, cruise and transfers. Economy category travellers will be targeted
Viva Macau Joins Hands with Venetian Macao Resort
Asian Traveller, India
Viva Macau Airlines, Macau's only international low-fares airline joined hands with Asia's largest integrated resort Venetian Macao Resort and world-famous Cirque du Soleil to launch attractive air-hotel-show packages for Australian travelers. The special VIVA/Venetian/ZAiA packages are available at Macau's only travel portal Macau.com till January 15, 2009. Four packages are offered from 2-nights-3-days to 5-nights-6-days for travel period between
Asian Traveller, India
Lemuel Herbert started his career more than a quarter century ago and at present is Associate Vice President & General Manager, The Park Chennai. Tell us about your hotel and its USPs
Asian Traveller, India
My USP is ofcourse the location 15meters from the sea, the largest inventory, the best of facilities with combination of services. Now it has been re-branded as a wellness resort with ayurveda, spa and an in-house dental clinic. The branding is 4 star at the moment and I feel the main USP's are value for money, service to the guests are like a home sure, flexible to the clients and to the agents, more domestic-guest-friendly and a view of the sea from the balcony
Asian Traveller, India
The Sheraton Shanghai Honqiao has been one of the first International hotels in Shanghai and is renowned for its impeccable service delivery and warm interior for 23 years now. We are close to the Hongqiao Airport and about 45 minutes away from the Pudong Airport terminals.
Asian Traveller, India
Our Hotel is an oasis of luxury and grandeur for our valued guests where they can lure in the warm and cozy ambience. We are committed to give the best service available in the industry by providing quality workforce, amenities, ambience and dining maximum hygiene thereby reach the goal of ultimate customer satisfaction.
Asian Traveller, India
Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai opened its doors officially in May 2008, and despite it being a new player, wO feel confident in the success of our hotel. Our product has been build to the highest standards and the genuine and personalised service we provide is truly a unique asset, which will differentiate us from our competitors.
Asian Traveller, India
We have 61 heritage properties, with each being different and with its own unique USP. For instance, we have a number of properties located at National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, which are famous for their special category of wildlife and foliage. There are Palaces and Forts, built more than a century ago which are famous for their luxury and history.
Asian Traveller, India
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok is located in the heart of the shopping, entertainment and business district. With its hand painted silk murals, ceilings, wall panels and carefully selected antiques, the hotel provides a strong sense of place
Asian Traveller, India
Goa is a great leisure destination and Leela has been here for the last eighteen years. We have completely redone about ten years ago and thereby set the tone for Leela to be one of the top hotels in Goa - not only in terms of facilities but the look, services
Asian Traveller, India
Le Meridien Cochin has created a niche in the global market as one of the finest resort and MICE destination in South India. We have achieved this distinction through hard work and dedication to the industry we serve. For this, I have to give credit to my associates
Asian Traveller, India
Sindhuri Hotels and Resorts is a 20 year old group that comes under the Swagath brand. The hotels cater to the budget segment. The group own 12 properties now and by 2010 three more will be added to it. Our main attraction is the cuisines we offer.
Asian Traveller, India
The Orchid- an Ecotel Hotel is Asia's first certified eco-friendly five-star hotel and worlds only Ecotel to be certified as ISO-14001. It has received more than 54 national and international awards for its commitment to save environment by practicing responsible tourism. The Group is managed by Concept Hospitality.
Asian Traveller, India
We position ourselves as a premium product in the market. Although classified as a Resort, we can cater to all kinds of clientele. Hence rather than targeting a particular segment, we are attacking all up market segments
Asian Traveller, India
A gold medalist from Kerala Press Academy, Kochi with a Post graduate diploma in Journalism and Mass
Asian Traveller, India
Jana Linhartova - Samdani is married to Ghulam Samdani, Area Director (Southern Region), Sarovar Hotels & Resorts. Though a qualified tourism professional (who had worked as a tour guide and front desk staff in Prague, a resident manager at a resort in Italy,
Asian Traveller, India
The state of Assam has a lot of potential and it can be rated among the top five tourism states in India. In reality we are not marketing ourselves as much as the other states. So we are in the middle level in the tourism map. I wouldn't include our state in the first or the last segment and would rate five in a scale of ten.
We Hope for a Better Turn Out Next Season
Asian Traveller, India
The boom which was on in the 2007 -08 is no longer there, which is mainly due to the global economic slowdown and terrorist activities like the Mumbai incidents. These happened at the start of the tourist season which resulted in a lot of cancellations, especially from the foreign tourists.
Keys Hotels to Have 38 Hotels in India by 2014
Asian Traveller, India
We are a young group which is only three years old in India. We are backed by an American fund to build out a global business of budget and mid segment hotels in India and the other emerging markets. In India we have seventeen projects underway in which three are in Kerala. The first of our built-out hotel is in Thiruvananthapuram with 104 rooms and it will be ready in two or three months time
Sikkim to Give Prominence to Adventure, Eco Sectors
Asian Traveller, India
Sikkim, the tiny state nestling at the foot of the Himalayas, is a small paradise which has a variety of attractions and activities to offer the visitors.
Thai Travel Industry Back to Normal
Asian Traveller, India
The traditional markets of Thailand include Japan, Malaysia, China and Korea which counts about one million arrivals. From Europe the main markets are UK, Germany and France which is about half a million
Dubai Has Much More Than Shopping to Offer
Asian Traveller, India
We have already made significant changes and developments in promoting Dubai beyond a shopping destination. Historically Dubai is known as a shopping destination but in the last six years there has been a gradual shift from merely DSF to a destination promoting sporting events. We have the travel agents in India promoting Dubai as an international sporting destination for Dubai Desert Classic
India is an Important Market for Malaysia
Asian Traveller, India
We have been in this industry for some time now starting from the late 60's. The major markets we have are from the regions in Europe, Asia and Oceania. Now we are looking more at Asia and countries like India which is in South Asia. We are also looking at West Asia. At present our number one market is South and Southeast Asia followed by West Asia and Europe.
Asian Traveller, India
We are ranked as one of the topmost destinations not only in India but across the world. We are proud of the place and we are there to stay.
Himachal Pradesh, A Picture Postcard Destination
Asian Traveller, India
Himachal Pradesh is located in the northern part of the country and it is one of the most beautiful places in the country. Our USP is that we are one of the safest places to spend a holiday with picturesque locations, snow capped mountains, lush green valleys, a cool climate and hospitable people.
Philippines Beckons Indian Travellers
Asian Traveller, India
For the Philippines the first market is Korea followed by North America, Japan, China, Australia and from Europe it would be from the UK and Germany. We are getting good tourist traffic from Russia too. India is our new market
Macau Plans More Promotional Activities
Asian Traveller, India
The main markets for Macau Tourism include the mainland China and the others from the Southeast Asian countries. If we look at India as a whole we are doing about 30 - 40 per cent more than the last year
Down Under Eyes Indian Travellers
Asian Traveller, India
In this part of the world, India and China are the two markets for Australia Tourism. China is a larger base and India a comparatively smaller one but with very good quality. In a global perspective the UK, Europe, America
Andhra to Promote Budhist Circuits
Asian Traveller, India
There are dream destinations and then there is Awesome Andhra Pradesh, says the official website of Andhara Pradesh Tourism. Andhra Pradesh offers everything from amazing beaches to appetizing biryanis, dense forests to dynastic fort
HHR Targets Metros, Tier II Cities in India
Asian Traveller, India
Hampshire Hotels and Resorts is based in New York. We have over 2500 rooms in New York City just in Manhattan and Bavaria. We are the single largest operator of rooms there. All the hotels are Hip, Chick and Botique hotels
Country Club Luxury and Leisure
Asian Traveller, India
Rajeev Reddy entered the real estate business in 1981 with Rs 4 lakh that he had borrowed from his relatives and started Amrutha Estates, named after his mother. Now Country Club India Ltd is one of the fastest growing entertainment and leisure conglomerate in India
Bringing Together Global Standards and Local Knowledge
Asian Traveller, India
The AVIAREPS Group is the world's leading service provider in the aviation and tourism representation sector. We are a financially secure organization with offices in almost forty countries worldwide, specialized in providing services for airlines, airports, destinations, hotels, car rentals, cruise lines, attractions and shopping centers
Asian Traveller, India
Taj Residency Trivandrum is a contemporary premium business hotel which will cater to a wide segment of the clientele as it has 137 keys to offer. The different categories of rooms from the superior rooms to the presidential suite will ensure that they hotel will enjoy an interesting mix of business travelers and leisure clients. Taj Residency Trivandrum will fill the void that existed in Trivandrum by providing a much needed destination for anyone who wanted to come to this region for business or pleasure. The size and layout of the hotel ensures that each segment is able to carve out its own space and enjoy the premium services and facilities of the hotel.
Asian Traveller, India
Thailand gets the most number of visitors from East Asia, which accounts for more than 50 percent of tourist arrivals in the country- 55.18 percent in 2007 to be precise. Malaysia, Japan, China and Korea are the main for Thailand tourism
Shahram Saber - Regional Director (Asia) PATA
Asian Traveller, India
As a membership based organisation PATA has and continues to support its members and the Travel and Tourism industry through a range of services and products aimed at enhancing development of the industry in Asia Pacific and beyond. Asia is a critical region due to its importance as a regional market with high growth potential and also as it is home to a large number of PATA members.
Internet to Play a Major Role in Promotional and Marketing Activities
Asian Traveller, India
The performances has been excellent, the figures has shown remarkable increase. The international tourist arrivals have improved by 20 percent and domestic by six percent. The more important thing is the extension of the season. The international season used to be over by February and in this year the bookings continued and the last chartered flight landed in the month of May
Asian Traveller, India
Pariva Rustagi, is the Director of Sales & Marketing (Delhi) of Marriott Hotels India Pvt. Ltd.
Asian Traveller, India
After qualifying for the IPS I wanted to make it to the IAS and in the interim explored the possibility of joining the hotel profession for a year as an alternative and ended up joining the Hyatt as Guest Relations Officer. The hospitality industry had just begun to open up and over years it has grown immensely.
Asian Traveller, India
When I finished high school - most of the traditional career choices were available. I was not interested in any of them, I wanted to be part of a global environment, be creative and enjoy work. A family friend introduced me to the idea of hotels and I applied to Pusa Institute for Hotel Management
Asian Traveller, India
When I was in college I got myself a world map big enough to be a wall paper and pasted it on a wall opposite my bed. So when I woke up every morning I would look at it and remind myself that I would like to at least have seen half of the world by the time I was 30
Asian Traveller, India
I have been a globetrotter all my life. During my travel, restaurants and hotels have always fascinated me. While my passion for hospitality grew with years, my marriage paved the way for my formal entry into this business. I used to visit Savera Hotels with family and friends to attend parties. When the business stretched to the second generation, we got the opportunity to be part of the management and operations.
Asian Traveller, India
It was certainly not a planned career. I left my home to study at Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics when I was 17 and after graduation I wanted a job that would keep me afloat financially so I could become independent. I applied for a job with an airline through an advertisement and I got the job. Once I became a part of the trade there was no looking back - now I am on my 17th year in the travel trade.
Asian Traveller, India
I started my career with KLM Airlines with the ground team then moved on to United Airlines handling corporate marketing and sales
Asian Traveller, India
Although I am textile designer by training, I have spent my entire working life in the aviation industry. Prior to joining Etihad, I worked with Galileo India
Asian Traveller, India
I started my career with Mauritius tourism in the year 1996. After four years there, I started working with Singapore tourism board for two years and since 2002 I am with the Switzerland Tourism Board.
Asian Traveller, India
I started my Career with Kimberly Clark, Pune in Industrial Sales. From there I moved on to advertising with Trikaya Grey, now called Grey Worldwide. I then took a break from work and went to Washington DC, there after a few months I got an offer to do a project with a company in San Jose, California. While working on the project in California I made up my mind to return to India. On my return a head hunter called me for the role of marketing head for Virgin Atlantic - that was in 2000. Rest, as they say, is history.
Asian Traveller, India
I had always aspired to become a heart surgeon. It was by chance that I got into the travel industry. I was waiting for my post graduate classes to begin and in the interim took up the job of a summer trainee at SITA World Travels for three months and I have to admit that the journey since then has been quite interesting. It has been fascinating. Travelling to destinations that I only heard of and learning changing customer profile
WelcomHeritage Adds Three More Properties to the Chain
Asian Traveller, India
WelcomHeritage, a joint venture with ITC Ltd and His Highness of Jodhpur
Asian Traveller, India
A few months ago, I was booking a flight ticket to Singapore by our national carrier for my wife to visit our daughter. The journey was fixed and the ticket was obtained. While making the booking I gave my mobile number for the sake of
Chinese, Portugese, Dutch and Kochi
Asian Traveller, India
Arriving in Kerala's Fort Kochi after travelling around nearby towns and cities, I was struck by the quiet tranquility of this quaint town on the southwestern coast of India
Asian Traveller, India
Did you take a look at one of your photo albums lately? Did you talk to one of your old friends about the good old times? Or did you return to some places where you have been many years ago, maybe for holidays?
Asian Traveller, India
One of the leading institutes of business management in down South of India once invited me as a guest lecturer for their graduation ceremony. And after a while, the same institute called me up if I could stand in for a scheduled lecturer-trainer who could not turn up for the workshop on organizational leadership for practicing managers organized by them. I was one of the five lecturers for the workshop. Barring me, the remaining four of them were full-time academicians, holding doctorates in their respective fields, and certified trainers
Gateway to Periyar National Park
Asian Traveller, India
On my travels through India I definitely wanted to check out one of the National Parks. To choose one is not very easy. There are quite a few. In the end I have selected the Periyar National Park in Kerala. The park measures 777 square kilo meters and lies close to the Tamil Nadu border
Asian Traveller, India
The year was 1995. The airline was just two years old. My team and I as its leader were very much part and cause of the airline's evolution and growth in our own way at that time
India Has to Take Action in Fighting Pollution
Asian Traveller, India
Although there have been coming more tourists to India every year, in 2008 about five million which still means a growth rate of more
Asian Traveller, India
In every organisation, the standing grievance of any employee is that the organisation is least bothered about his or her promotion or career growth. Many a time, employees deem it fit that their mere tenure of service is more than enough to claim the move up. Never do they realize that a promotion for one follows the act of one's giving promotion to the organisation
Asian Traveller, India
They used to be thrilling to watch… early Boeing 707s, DC-8s and Convair's taking off with an earth-shaking roar and thick black smoke spewing from their four turbo-jet engines were sufficient inspiration for any youngster who beheld that spectacle, to dream of flying those jets someday. A lot of them realized their dreams and today fly modern commercial airliners which despite their relatively larger sizes, behave far more politely in society, in terms of noise levels and emissions than their predecessors of the 60s.
Asian Traveller, India
We are all seeking happiness. But do we know what happiness is all about. I have seen people cudgeling their brains for hours to make a list of ten things that would make them happy. No wonder they are not finding happiness in life
Satyam - Hidden Truths in Aviation
Asian Traveller, India
Never has a word developed into a cliché faster than the word 'Satyam' has, in the context of Indian business. I guess some would have seen it coming when the promoters of the company launched yet another business venture but decided to do a 'shirshasan' with the Satyam name and turned it into one of India's most notorious anagrams - Maytas.
Asian Traveller, India
It was the history class and Winston Churchill was the student. The subject was the Battle of Plassey, an important battle that was very decisive for the British in India
Safety on the Ramp Getting Out of Fashion?
Asian Traveller, India
The Mumbai terror strikes were unique in several aspects. It cut across a spectrum of social and economic strata to affect one and all in a collective, destructive embrace. It impacted the common man as much as it did the rich and the poor
Asian Traveller, India
Quite often we do hear of and talk about'Thinking differently', 'Thinking laterally', and 'Thinking positively' etc. Many a time my sense of wonderment goes even deeper
Asian Traveller, India
Delhi - the capital city of India, one of the busiest cities in the world, home of Shahrukh Khan, place of residence of so many companies from all over the world, heavy traffic, a city which is always awake - the idea I had of New Delhi was a mixture, a combination of impressions garnered from books and narrations of friends who had been there. "Overcrowded, strange people, very dusty and annoying," said on
Asian Traveller, India
Former President of Coca-Cola, Donald R. Keough has authored an excellent book titled 'The Ten Commandments for Business Failure'. It is a remarkable 'How Not To' manual among thousands of 'How To' series on business success, management, and leadership.
Asian Traveller, India
In a recent survey, India was found to have the most number of road accident fatalities per annum. Without any intended black humour, I sometimes think that the air-side at most of our airports, are the inadvertent flag-bearers of this dubious distinction.
Asian Traveller, India
The words 'delegation' and 'legacy' are inter-related. Delegating is nothing but successfully passing on your legacy to the next in line. How many of us are doing it, be it a family situation or a company environment? A successful management is more of 'delegating' than 'doing'.
Souvenir Shopping in Tamil Nadu
Asian Traveller, India
Tamil Nadu is acclaimed as a souvenir-shoppers-stop. Stone and bronze carvings were heavily patronized by the Cholas, Pallavas and the Chettiars. The modern
Flanders Opens Tourist Office in India
Asian Traveller, India
The Tourism Office for Flanders- Belgium today officially launched their India offices in Mumbai and Delhi respectively. Sabine Denis- Advisor to Flemish Minister of Economy, Enterprise, Science, Innovation and Trade, Jozef Vercruysse General Administrator Tourism Flanders and Piet Jonckers, Area Manager Intercontinental Markets, Tourism Flanders were also present to grace the occasion
Asian Traveller, India
Situated off the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea, Phuket one of the southern provinces of Thailand was formerly known as Tha-Laang. It is one of the largest islands of the country spanning 48 km in length
Asian Traveller, India
Krishnagiri, one the nature's bounty to the Tamil Nadu tourism is a mountainous terrain and full of flatlands. It is also the headquarters of Krishnagiri District. The best time to visit is between the months of November and March.
Asian Traveller, India
Elagiri Hills, a haven for those seeking peace, solitude and nature is one of the upcoming hill stations in Tamil Nadu. Situated at an altitude of 1410 meters above sea level the place is 163 km far from Bangalore and 240 km from Chennai.
Asian Traveller, India
Over my two-day train trip from Tanzania to Zambia, I glimpsed bits of Africa's immense landscape, waved at children who greeted us from the tracks, mingled with other adventurous travellers, and spent hours with the local police in the unlikely hope of recovering the bulk of the belongings I had carried on board
The Sun, The Sand - A True Australian Holiday
Asian Traveller, India
Queensland, the northeastern state of Australia, is home to many tourist attractions. Bordered by the Coral Sea and Pacific Ocean, this Australian state offers diverse attractions and options for holidaying. Queensland occupies about 25 per cent of Australia and has a broad multi-cultural community including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descendants. The region enjoys a tropical climate, top holiday spots, relaxed and casual atmosphere and its friendly people make it an ideal holiday destination. The main tourist
Asian Traveller, India
Historic Rangpur, about a mile south of the present Sivasagar town of Upper Assam, was the fourth capital of the Ahom kingdom. It completed 300 years of its glorious existence in 1999. The old city dotted with architectural marvels and sculptures,
Asian Traveller, India
But above all stands the cultural vibrancy of Philippines and the Filipinos.
Asian Traveller, India
Kaziranga, the abode of the world famous one-horned rhino, in Assam is on its way to become one among the new Seven Wonders of Nature. Besides Kaziranga, the other three entries from India include the Sundarbans forest, the Ganges and Pangong Lake
Asian Traveller, India
Junbeel Mela in Assam is unique in the sense that barters trade system, though passé in other parts of the globe is still in vogue
Asian Traveller, India
The present book on The Lallgarh Palace, Bikaner written by Princess Rajyashree Kumari, the great granddaughter of Maharaja Ganga Singhji, is a unique piece of work, perhaps the only one of its kind. Beginning from 1902 A.D
One-Stop Solution for Tourists Visiting Northeast
Asian Traveller, India
A tourism hub in the capital city of Assam, Guwahati, is ready for inauguration shortly. With the coming up of the tourism hub, tourists willing to visit the Northeast India need no longer run from pillar to post to get all the information required for visiting the country's 'paradise unexplored'.
Be the First to Discover Ko Chang
Asian Traveller, India
Ko Chang Marine National Park is new and virtually unknown to the outside world. Few people know of its secret wonders. Some even boldly call it "the last paradise islands in Southeast Asia". A paradise it is, Ko Chang Marine National Park has been a heaven to the people who need to replenish their mind and energy, to recharge. Ko Chang is the largest of the 52-island Ko Chang Marine National Park, all of which are untouched by modernization with their natural resources kept intact. Thus, qualifying the park as a dream escape, a true hideaway, far from the bustling city life.
The First Four Seasons Property in India
Asian Traveller, India
Hotel Mumbai, the first property of the Four Seasons in the Indian subcontinent provides a distinct feel of hospitality with a significant change in design and concept of the conventional trade
Under the Sea, I will marry Thee...
Asian Traveller, India
Heard about medieval 'marriage of the sea' custom in Venice or read Jane Alison's novel by the same name? Here is an opportunity to go a step further and have a 'marriage under the sea' in the Philippines. The Philippines, the archipelago spanning three seas, may be the best destination to 'dive into a relationship'. A bouncy world of stunning waterscapes, the Philippines offers a unique opportunity for underwater nuptials. Take the plunge of your life, and get married in traditional Filipino style, on the beach or five meters below the undulating surface.
The Sun, The Sand - A True Australian Holiday
Asian Traveller, India
Queensland, the northeastern state of Australia, is home to many tourist attractions. Bordered by the Coral Sea and Pacific Ocean, this Australian state offers diverse attractions and options for holidaying. Queensland occupies about 25 per cent of Australia and has a broad multi-cultural community including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descendants. The region enjoys a tropical climate, top holiday spots, relaxed and casual atmosphere and its friendly people make it an ideal holiday destination. The main tourist
Asian Traveller, India
The entire travel trade is posed with various fears. Many experts have been expressing the fear of a large number of travel shops will down their shutters, more than one lakh persons will loose jobs, thousands of families will be affected.
Mawlynnong - Where Ceanliness is a Way of Life
Asian Traveller, India
Situated off the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea, Phuket one of the southern provinces of Thailand was formerly known as Tha-Laang. It is one of the largest islands of the country spanning 48 km in length, 21 km at its widest and an area of approximately 570 square km. The name Phuket is derived from the Malay word 'bukit' meaning hill as the island appears like one from a distance.
Asian Traveller, India
Camping holidays in the UK have seen resurgence in popularity amongst British holiday makers as the effects of the credit crunch are forcing them to cut back on luxury spending. Camping holidays in Britain were aonce very popular, with thousands of sites across the country being filled up every summer with families looking for an affordable get away
Asian Traveller, India
It was Christopher Columbus who described The Dominican Republic- who discovered it during his first voyage to the New World - as "a beautiful island paradise with high forested mountains and large river valleys", in 1492, and it holds true even now. A colorful tapestry of Spanish, French, Haitian, and African influences woven by a rich and storied history the Dominican Republic offers an exciting and unique cultural experience that will captivate the senses of the visitor besides the comforts of sun, sea, and sand. This is a destination like no other - a sensual feast of dazzling landscapes, exotic cuisine, and a remarkable variety of arts and entertainment
Asian Traveller, India
Singapore Tourism Board has appointed Jessica Sim as Area Director, Northern and Eastern India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan.
National Geographic Traveller
National Geographic Traveller
National Geographic Traveller
National Geographic Traveller
This green and clean Colorado city has shops, restaurants, and scenic views that are worth a look.
National Geographic Traveller
National Geographic Traveller
National Geographic Traveller
National Geographic Traveller
National Geographic Traveller
Sign Up for the A*List Newsletter
National Geographic Traveller
National Geographic Traveller
The best overnight slumber parties offered at zoos across the country.
National Geographic Traveller
Take our quiz and test your knowledge of festivals throughout the world.
National Geographic Traveller
Use our interactive maps to explore Kyoto and other cities.
National Geographic Traveller
National Geographic Traveller
Don George reviews Hot House Flower and the 9 Plants of Desire by Margot Berwin.
National Geographic Traveller
National Geographic Traveller
Outlook Traveller, India
You know that game where you ask everyone in turn: Cat Person or Dog Person? Beatles or Rolling Stones (or whatever telling binary you happen to be
Outlook Traveller, India
If all the sensational news that has been trickling out of Dubai is to be believed, the emirate may have finally lost the plot. As it happens, the plot of land I’m staring at claims to be the lost continent
Outlook Traveller, India
t’s a small, untidy town.What lifts it up and makes it bigger is its inherent spirituality.Madurai fairly pulsates with religiosity.Everywhere you turn,people are
Outlook Traveller, India
Standing in the church square of Old Goa, I feel overwhelmed by the remnants of 17th century Portuguese power on the tiny Goan island of Tiswada, Europe’s first gateway to India. I try to imagine how
Outlook Traveller, India
Beloved of the British, Nainital was Jim Corbett’s home for many years, and he talks about the town fondly in his books. When P. Barron stumbled upon the valley of Naini Lake in 1839, he was smitten.
Outlook Traveller, India
At Fatehpur Sikri, Akbar created an artificial lake in the middle of the..
Outlook Traveller, India
I was in Gurgaon in last week of June and chose Bristol Hotel to stay at
Outlook Traveller, India
Dear Marco,I plan to travel to New York, Washington, Niagara, Orlando, San Francisco, Lo
Outlook Traveller, India
It had been a charming day, flitting in and out of pretty houses, which in Goa is not a difficult thing to do. I was staying at the Vivenda dos Palhaços, a century-old Portuguese residence in ..
Outlook Traveller, India
Before this trip,I hadn’t known anyone who had been to Club Med(or had admitted to it),but I realised that my friends and I shared the same befuddled notions of a ‘time-share’resort..
Indian Inbound: Exploring new horizons
Travel Biz Monitor, India
This line used by Lonely Planet India 2007 edition best describes the experiences that India has to offer to international, as well as domestic travellers. The country has varied and unlimited offerings that even a lifetime would perhaps seem less to expl
Indian Outbound – Getting the right mix!
Travel Biz Monitor, India
The global travel and tourism industry was badly hit last year and is still reeling under the financial meltdown which set in mid-2008. US and European markets were most affected by the meltdown.
Travel Biz Monitor, India
I'm loving it...Just do it.....Intel Inside...are all well established tag-lines defining the product, service, company or an organisation and distinguishing it from its competitor. Typically, a tag-line if conceptualised keeping in mind the product offer
Cashing in on the rains: Monsoon and Wellness Tourism
Travel Biz Monitor, India
“Raindrops keep falling on my head…” and for the travel trade the raindrops will also keep jingling their cash registers. For the past few years the travel trade and the state tourism boards have been aiding the trend of travelling during the rains by int
Exploring Brand India at ATM 2009
Travel Biz Monitor, India
As a growth strategy for this year, major tourist offices along with airlines and travel suppliers around the world are focusing on domestic and short haul destinations. The focus is to attract markets that are not badly affected by the global upheavals.
Airport modernisation on its way in India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
India’s airport modernisation program delivered its first major results in 2008 with the opening of the Greenfield airports in Bangalore and Hyderabad on a Public Private Partnership basis. Although not immune from controversy, these new facilities have b
India’s airline sector appears headed for another round of consolidation this year: CAPA
Travel Biz Monitor, India
India's airline industry is expected to post a combined operating loss of USD two billion for the 12 months ending March 31, 2009. The financial performance of Indian carriers has been repeatedly battered since 2005 by deep discounting, the fuel price spi
Europe: Targeting Resilient India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Talking about the Indian outbound market in particular, approximately ten million travellers visited an international destination last year and an estimate figure of 16 million has been predicted to travel to international destinations by the end of 2010.
Honeymoon segment: Revenue stream for all seasons
Travel Biz Monitor, India
You can now target over 70,000 travel and allied professionals from the travel trade, travel managers in corporate sector, aviation, tourism boards, tour operators as well as allied sectors providing support services. The target audience’s profile ranges
Travel Biz Monitor, India
The global economic crisis of 2008 shook the entire world to the core and has impacted industries across the board. One of the most affected industries is tourism, as travel is considered to be more of a luxury and not a necessity. The industry is still n
Paving the Way into 2009 - Global Trends
Travel Biz Monitor, India
The WTM Global Trends Report 2008, in association with Euromonitor International, demonstrates its underlying strength and influence in people’s daily lives worldwide. Regardless of references to ‘meltdown,’ inflation, fuel prices and falling disposable i
Winter Tourism - a potential growth area in India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Winter tourism has existed in India since the initial growth phase of tourism in India. Today, the ones marketing the concept of ‘Winter Tourism’ highlight it under winter festivals, winter adventure sports and beautiful winter locations. The states promo
Terrorism ruins tourism in India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Ever since the economic crisis in the mid-90s, the tourism industry has been struck by a series of setbacks – 9/11, the war in Iraq, SARS, tsunami, climate change and more recently the financial turmoil. The global credit crunch and rupee depreciation had
North East region is developing Eco, Rural and Adventure segments to realise tourism potential
Travel Biz Monitor, India
A region of rugged yet breath taking scenic beauty and diverse culture, the North East is drawing attention of tourists for all the right reasons. The North Eastern states are once again making a concerted effort and taking every initiative to get noticed
OTAs – Are they getting it right?
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Just a ‘click’ and you can book yourself on a desired airline or buy a holiday package. The wired world has indeed ‘shrunk the world’. With more and more travel companies jumping on to the online bandwagon, traditional travel agents fear the consequences
Social Networking Sites: Emerging Marketing Tool
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Every Internet user is believed to be a part of at least one social networking site, be it Facebook, Orkut, MySpace, Hi5 or LinkedIn. Reasons may be many. Some want to keep in touch with old friends, while most others look for friendship online. Through t
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Non-air products: Moving beyond ticketing
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Kerala Travel Mart: Showcasing the best
Travel Biz Monitor, India
PATA India Chapter: The story so far
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Online branding: Can brands find a place on the web?
Travel Biz Monitor, India
M-Commerce: The next big thing
Travel Biz Monitor, India
IATO 2008: Forging Bonds and Encouraging Tourism to Eastern India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Infrastructure: Key to Accessible Tourism in India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Need and Opportunity: Accessible Tourism in India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Radio Cabs: Switch to top gear in India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Agents and Airlines: Living on the Edge
Travel Biz Monitor, India
The Golden Era of Agency Commissions
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Pilots: The crying need of Indian aviation
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Changing face of Indian aviation
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Trends in Indian Outbound - First in the series of anniversary special cover stories
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Business Jets: Next revolution in Indian aviation
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Agri-Tourism: Rich benefits to be reaped
Travel Biz Monitor, India
Kerala Tourism, India
Kerala Tourism, India
Kerala Tourism, India
Kerala Tourism, India
Have you ever wished you could play with your food? And look back unhappily at all .....
Kerala Tourism, India
Innovedics Ayur Health Care Pvt Ltd. based in Thiruvananthapuram aims to offer innovative ........
Kerala Tourism, India
Paradise Resort located near the pictur esque Kumarakom Lake in Kottayam distrct,.....
Kerala Tourism, India
On the banks of the Vembanad Lake, spread over 18 acres of landscaped.......
Kerala Tourism, India
Delightful Scenes from ITB Asia
Kerala Tourism, India
A business-to-business trade show and convention for the travel industry, which is designed to become the primary event for the Asia Pacific travel industry, the ITB Asia was held at Suntec Singapore on October 22 to 24, 2008. Both Messe Berlin and the Si
Charming Traditional Encounters
Kerala Tourism, India
Blending modern day comfort with elements of traditional Malabar charm, Kadavu, on the banks of the Chaliyar in Kozhikode, showcases the best of the region’s rich traditions and unending natural beauty. Malabar’s only five star accredited resort-cum-busi
Comprehensive Travel Solutions
Kerala Tourism, India
Intersight Holidays (P) Ltd, a leading travel and tour services company in India with registered corporate office at Cochin, Kerala, and branches in various Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Nagpur, and Kovalam, has established itself as a l
Kerala Tourism, India
Thomas Holidays and Resorts has launched three new properties in Kerala: the Turtle, a seafront resort with all the splendour of the alluring Kovalam beach, forms the perfect place to spend languid evenings tinged by the sunset and listen to the rhythm of
Kerala Tourism, India
Sreeragam Home, a luxury villa retreat, which is the first property of its kind in Kerala with all most modern facilities and services, is a typical Kerala style home. An ideal place for the Honey Moon Holiday, Business meetings of company Executives and
Kerala Tourism, India
Often called Kumarakom’s little jewel, the Taj Garden Retreat, Kumarakom is perfectly cushioned in the beauty of its rustic surroundings. Over a century old, the colonial bungalow houses newly built luxury villas, heritage rooms and charming cottages desi
Kerala Tourism, India
Backwater Ripples is a landmark in the expansive Vembanadu Backwater Lake Shore. An eco-adventure backwater resort cosseted by swaying palms and over 7 acres of landscaped courtyards, the resort exudes a special traditional charm with its intricately carv
Kerala Tourism, India
Welcome the dawn listening to the chirping of birds and the multifarious sights and sounds of nature at Waterscapes, the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) owned backwater resort at Kumarakom offers travellers a unique holiday experience. Nestl
Kerala Tourism, India
Spread across 25 acres of lush landscaping and the backdrop of the serene Vembanad Lake, encompassing heritage, luxury and natural beauty is Kumarakom Lake Resort, acclaimed as the finest luxury heritage resort in India. Like other The Paul Hotels and Re
Kerala Tourism, India
A new full-service three-star facility on the shores of the enchanting Vembanad Lake, The Backwater Resort is spread across three acres of lush coconut groves. Blending a typically Keralan ambience with every modern convenience, 20 well furnished cottages
Kerala Tourism, India
Homestays have caught on well in Kerala. Homestays are spread across the length and breadth of the State. Families have opened their heritage homes, intimate cottages, estate bungalows and farmhouses in picturesque locations to welcome visitors from all p
Kerala Tourism, India
One of the five handsome heritage homes owned by the ‘Parayil Tharakans’, a land-owning Syrian Catholic family of Kerala, Olavipe is a backwater cum heritage homestay located on an island about 25 km from Kochi. Olavipe means ‘gift of the waves’, and this
Kerala Tourism, India
For the first time in the history, a monument is coming up to mark the well known legend .......
Kerala Tourism, India
Inviting and appealing - that is how we can briefly describe the newly launched brochure of ......
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