Welcome to Kaziranga Park land of Rhino

The Kaziranga National Park opens to tourists on 1st November, 2015 at 7.00 AM. All tourists are welcome. 

Kaziranga National Park – a world heritage site, the park hosts two-thirds of the world’s Great One-horned rhinoceros. Kaziranga also boasts the highest density of tigers among the protected areas in the world and was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006. Though sighting of tigers are difficult because of the tall grasses that provide excellent camouflage, their presence can be felt everywhere by way of pug marks, kills and territorial markings. The park is home to large breeding populations of elephants, wild water buffalo and swamp deer.

Kaziranga National Park and its Addition Areas

Climate : The park experiences three seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. The winter season, between November and February, is mild and dry, with a mean high of 25 °C (77 °F) and low of 5 °C (41 °F). During this season, beels and nallahs (water channels) dry up. The summer season between March and May is hot, with temperatures reaching a high of 37 °C (99 °F). During this season, animals usually are found near water bodies.The rainy monsoon season lasts from June to September, and is responsible for most of Kaziranga's annual rainfall of 2,220 mm (87 in). During the peak months of July and August, three-fourths of the western region of the park is submerged, due to the rising water level of the Brahmaputra. 

   

Greater one-horned rhinoceros 

   

An Indian roller at Kaziranga

   

Wild boar family

   

Asian elephants

 

Grasslands and deciduous forests of Kaziranga

   

A board proclaiming the biological heritage of the park

 

Census figures for elephant and rhinoceros in Kaziranga

 

 Entrance gate of Kaziranga National Park

   

Bonoshree Tourist Lodge in Kaziranga, maintained by the Government of Assam 

Xorai welcome to Kaziranga on NH 37

 

Survey Reveals Travellers from Asia Pacific the Most Tech-Savvy

The need to stay connected at every corner of the globe, has made technology both a trusty companion and an indispensable resource for leisure travelers.

According to Visa’s Global Travel Intentions Study 2013, phones are the top choice as a holiday companion (80%), followed by cameras (70%), computers (54%), and entertainment devices (32%).

Gadgets are used to find essential information and easily share their travel experiences with friends and family which is why 65% of global travelers take a smartphone with them.

 Asian tourists are also particularly tech-savvy with 73% choosing to check-in online while abroad.

This emerging trend is not just limited to the trip itself – 71% of travelers share their holiday experiences online after returning from their trips.

Asian travelers are even keener to share their experiences with 77% of tourists updating the web with their adventures.

Internet capability also rates highly when deciding which gadgets to bring on holiday, coming in as the top consideration for affluent travelers (45%) ahead of gadget size and weight – possibly due to the 25% who require access to internet banking while away.

First-time travelers, however, listed size as being the most important factor (41%).

Online sources such as travel review, service provider and official tourism websites are used by 71% of global travelers for trip planning, 65% for bookings of independent travel and 57% for information while traveling.

 Travelers from Asia Pacific are the most tech-savvy, with these numbers increasing to 80%, 76% and 73% respectively.

Ross Jackson, Head of Cross-Border, Asia Pacific, Central Europe, Middle East & Africa, at Visa Worldwide, said, “Technology has impacted every aspect of our lives, and the way that we plan and enjoy holidays is no different. While traditional word of mouth reviews from friends, relatives and guidebooks are still used – especially among travelers from Africa & the Middle East – online resources that offer reviews from frequent travelers as well as a host of other information such as currency converters, pictures, booking and discount facilities are becoming the first source of information for most global travelers. In a positive sign for providers who are offering both information and booking solutions online, global travelers are saying that online booking processes are fast and getting easier. Visa understands this and provides a number of ecommerce solutions to make online payments secure and convenient for both merchants and customers.”

Travel & tourism industry supports relief work in Uttarakhand

The travel and tourism industry has come forward wholeheartedly to support the relief and rescue operations of the government agencies in flood-ravaged Uttarakhand. Travel and tourism associations have asked their members to participate in providing succour to people stranded, as well as those who have lost their livelihood in the natural calamity. The paramilitary forces have so far evacuated close to 90,000 Char Dham pilgrims from the affected areas.

Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has urged its members to contribute generously to the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund to help the government in the rehabilitation work for the affected people. Similarly, the Indian Tourist Transport Association (ITTA) had sent 30 tourist coaches on June 20 and 21 from Delhi to Uttarakhand with relief materials. These coaches were flagged off from Delhi by Sheila Dikshit, Chief Minister of Delhi. “We have also requested members to contribute to the Relief Fund and are getting good response. ITTA has decided to participate in the rebuilding of Uttarakhand in collaboration with the state government and local administration,” said Krishan Dutt Yadav, President, ITTA.

Delhi Hotel & Restaurant Association, an umbrella association of guest house owners of Delhi, has decided to offer free rooms, food and medicines to pilgrims evacuated from affected areas, who are on transit to different places in the country. Sandeep Khandelwal, President, Delhi Hotel & Restaurant Association, said that about 250 member hotels will provide rooms, food and medicines to pilgrims who arrive in Delhi, en route to their destinations in different parts of the country.

Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has urged the government to announce a comprehensive financial package for the reconstruction of tourism infrastructure in Uttarakhand. In a statement, Vijay Pande, Secretary, FHRAI, said that the recent natural calamity had “dealt a severe blow” to the tourism and hospitality industry, which comprises largely “small- and medium-sized" establishments.

“On account of these incalculable losses, the sector faces a perilous future, which also threatens the livelihood of lakhs of people. FHRAI makes an urgent appeal to the Union Government and financial institutions to formulate a comprehensive relief package for the state’s hospitality and tourism industry, in the form of loan waivers, tax exemptions and subsidies,” Pande said.

Kerala Tourism to start seaplane service next month

The seaplane project of Department of Tourism (DoT), Government of Kerala, which was showcased at the Emerging Kerala Global Connect event held in Kochi in September last year is all set to take off. The non-scheduled service operated by Bengaluru-based Kairali Aviation Pvt Ltd, will be inaugurated at Ashtamundi Lake, Kollam on June 2, 2013. The company currently has a Cessna 206 aircraft (five passenger capacity) and will operate flights from Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Calicut to Punnamada in Allappuzha district and Astamundi in Kollam district. Kairali Aviation is the first to commence the service among four operators that have registered with the Kerala government to start sea plane service. The sea plane project is aimed at providing swift and convenient last mile connectivity to various important tourist destinations in the state.

Commenting on the service, Suman Billa, Tourism Secretary, Government of Kerala said, “The product offers tremendous potential to boost tourism in Kerala. The service will provide a unique experience to travellers, both as a joy ride and as an effective mode of transport to distant destinations. For e.g. a tourist, who travels from London to Kerala to visit Munnar can reach the destination via a seaplane from Cochin Airport within 20 minutes instead of six hours by road.”

According to Col. (Retd) Sasikumar, Chairman and Managing Director, Kairali Aviation, the company will soon extend its services to Kumarakom and Bolgatty. He informed that a half hour flight is priced between Rs 4,000 to 5,000.

“While clients can currently book through the Kairali Aviation office, very soon we will launch a booking website for the service. We plan to work closely with the travel trade and are in touch with numerous travel agents and tour operators, both in India and abroad. We plan to add another aircraft (Dornier 228 with seating capacity of nine passengers) after the monsoon season and plan to have a fleet of three aircraft by year end,” stated Col. (Retd) Sasikumar.

Kerala Tourism Infrastructure Ltd. (KTIL) was assigned to coordinate the project and was appointed as the nodal agency. According to KTIL, The state government has provided the necessary infrastructure by setting up waterdromes with facilities like a floating jetty, passenger frisking, etc., to operate seaplane services, based on an open sky policy. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) was prepared by Pawan Hans Helicopters Limited, which is a Government of India undertaking. Security of the waterdromes is ensured by a specially-formed Airport Security Group (ASG), trained and certified by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) of India, under the Kerala Police. Seaplane operations are limited to daytime and the project aims to connect 25 tourist destinations.

Riaz Ahmed, President, Kerala Travel Mart Society (KTMS) and Managing Director, Abad Group of Hotels, said, “Seaplanes are quite new in the Kerala tourism industry. The product gives value for money. It will definitely give a boost to tourism, and will help connect destinations such as Alleppey, and Kumarakom that houses the Vembanad Lake.”

Austin Varghese, Chairman Kerala Chapter, TAAI and Chief Executive, Austin International Travels, said, “It is good that seaplanes are being launched in Kerala. There are plans to offer pick-up services from Calicut, Thiruvananthapuram and Cochin airports to backwater destinations. The approximate cost will be Rs 6,000 per hour, which is not affordable by all classes of tourists. Thus, they should curtail the flying fees and make it economically viable for tourists. No special packages have been launched as yet for the travel trade."

E M Najeeb, Chairman Kerala Chapter, IATO and Chairman and Managing Director, Air Travel Enterprises (ATE) Group of Companies, said, “The seaplane is a new product in India itself. Kerala as a tourist destination is lucky to get all the required permission from authorities to unveil it. I would like to congratulate the state for taking this initiative and we will offer all the support. This will help tourists travel form one point to another quickly and offer last-mile connectivity to destinations. This will be a new experience for tourists."

Johny Abraham George, Chairman Kerala Chapter, ADTOI and Chairman & Managing Director, Intersight Tours and Travels Pvt Ltd, said, “This is a new product. The outcome is yet to be experienced. Though, it should save tourists time. For example, a tourist on an eight-day holiday in Kerala spends lot of time travelling. Seaplane services will help them save travel time. This is mainly suitable for high-end clients."

Jose Dominic, Joint Honorary Secretary, Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) and Managing Director & CEO, CGH Earth, said, “This is a new product in the Indian tourism industry. It will help tourists reach far-flung areas of Kerala such as Munnar or Mattupetty, which is at a six-to-seven-hour distance from Cochin Airport. This kind of product is good for all states in India."

Paulose K Mathew, Chairman, TAFI Kerala Chapter and Managing Director, Coraz Travel & Trade Links Pvt Ltd, said, “With tranquil beaches, beautiful backwaters, lake sides, lush green forests, hill stations, exotic wildlife sanctuaries, mountains, and hill stations, Kerala is a very beautiful tourist destination. Seaplane services will help tourists explore every nook and corner of the state, especially backwater destinations like Alappuzha. In addition, it is a new product and will give a different experience to tourists. Seaplane services will definitely be successful in Kerala."

KTDC plans to attract tourists from Middle East, Russia with Age Halt Ayurveda programme

Buoyed by the growing popularity of its Age Halt programme that provides Ayurveda treatment on the go, Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) is planning to woo tourists from the Middle East and Russia during the monsoon season this year. “Our Age Halt programme, launched last year, has sparked huge interest among tourists in India and abroad. It is a unique product that seamlessly combines Ayurvedic treatment and travel,” said N Prashant, Managing Director, KTDC.


The Age Halt programme provides Ayurveda packages through KTDC properties such as Samudra (Kovalam), Bolgatty Palace, Bolgatty Island Resort and Marina House (Kochi), Tea County (Munnar), Lake Palace and Aranya Nivas (Thekkady), and Periyar House, inside the Periyar Sanctuary, a release stated.

“A tourist may be confined to one location for 10-15 days while the Ayurvedic treatment is on, forcing him/her to forego the recreational aspect of travel. Age Halt is a combination of both recreation and treatment. A tourist who opts for a rejuvenation package at one place can move to other properties of KTDC without any interruption under continuous medical supervision,” Prashant said.

KTDC has tied up with Santhigiri Ashram at some of its properties for providing Ayurvedic therapy. The duration of the packages is up to 21 days and the tariff varies from Rs 1,900 to Rs 192,500. 

Currently, tourists majorly from Germany, Britain, Russia and France opt for the Age Halt programme, but KTDC is keen to enter the Gulf countries in a substantial manner. “We had organised special roadshows in the Gulf last year, and the Arabs are now coming to Kerala for the treatment of lifestyle diseases. They (Arabs) are tempted by the sight of rainfall. If we combine it with the Ayurvedic therapy, it will be a big opportunity for Kerala to leverage its traditional medicine system as a strong wellness quotient during the monsoon,” Prashant noted.

Rani George, Tourism Director, Kerala, said that Ayurveda, as a tourism product, has great prospects in the Middle East, Australia and Russia, besides the traditional markets in Germany. Kerala Tourism has already started a campaign, ‘Kerala - The Home of Ayurveda’, in the domestic as well as international markets.

Kerala is also pinning hopes on domestic tourists to sustain its Monsoon Tourism. “We can’t afford to ignore domestic tourists. Monsoons are a vacation time in the Northern states, and Kerala gives a relatively cheaper option to people from these states to avail of Ayurveda therapy while on the move,” said Prasanth, adding that KTDC would soon launch a monsoon package, including Ayurveda and indoor games. He also revealed that KTDC is setting up a drive-in beach resort at Muzhappilangad beach in Kannur district, which will be the largest in Asia.

Kerala recorded 7.9 lakh international tourist arrivals and one crore domestic tourist arrivals last year.

Tourism Authority of Thailand to promote motorbike tours in India

In a bid to tap this growing adventure segment in India, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is looking at promoting guided motorbike tours in the country. The bikes with over 1,000 cc, like Harley-Davidson, Ducati, and BMW, are apt for such tours. TAT had invited eight journalists from various sports magazines and bike tour operators for a Familiarisation (FAM) trip to Thailand, covering Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Khao Sok, Cheow Lan Lake, and Pattaya. Sethaphan Buddhani, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Mumbai, said that motorbike tours are conducted for five to seven days, and a group of 12-15 people can easily be accommodated. Buddhani was speaking on the sidelines of the event organised by TAT on reaching one million tourist arrivals from the Indian market.

TAT, in association with Lonely Planet Magazine India, had organised 'A Million Thanks Evening', a grand event at Shangri-La Hotel in Mumbai, to thank the trade, media and corporate partners. The dignitaries present at the event were Suraphon Svetasreni, Governor, TAT; His Excellency Nat Pinyowattanacheep, Thai Consul General; Runjuan Tongrut, Director, North & East India, Bangladesh, Bhutan & Nepal, TAT; Pichest Laeietpiboon, General Manager - Mumbai, Thai Airways; Lubaina Sheerazi, Head, Blue Square Consultants (West, South India Representative of TAT), and the who's who of the travel trade.

Svetasreni said, “We have reached the one-million mark of Indian arrivals to Thailand. Four years ago, India was not even in the top ten, but now the country is one of the top six source markets for Thailand, with China being the number one source market for Thailand, followed by Malaysia, Japan, Korea and Russia. we thank the travel trade for their support. Ever since we set up our offices in India (Delhi and Mumbai), the numbers from this market have been increasing. We have witnessed a double-digit growth from the Indian market in most of the years. Also, at the time of crisis, India never reported any significant drop and was the first country to bounce back. Such support strengthens and reaffirms our belief in the Indian market.”

Thailand received 1,100,561 Indian arrivals in 2012, which is an 11 per cent increase from the same period in 2011. “This year we are expecting ten per cent growth from the Indian market. Over 60 per cent of Indian travellers to Thailand are repeat travellers. Thailand hosted over 100 Indian weddings last year. We welcomed Bollywood celebrities, and had television series, music videos, advertisement and films shot in Thailand. The first six months of 2012 witnessed 158 films, mostly from South India, being shot in Thailand," added Buddhani.

Besides motorbike tours, TAT is focusing on tapping high-end travellers, bird watchers, photography and gastronomy enthusiasts. TAT is looking at expanding its marketing arms to Tier-II and III cities like Coimbatore, Ahmedabad, Nagpur and Ooty.

Odisha Tourism wins PATWA award in Historical Heritage Monument category at ITB Berlin 2013

Odisha Tourism has received the PATWA (Pacific Area Travel Writers Association) award in the Best Historical Heritage Monument category at ITB Berlin 2013, as per a release. The award was received by Ashok Kumar Tripathy - Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Odisha along with the Odisha Tourism team from the Executive Director of United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The award function was held at the International Congress Centre (ICC), Berlin.

Odisha boasts of temples, stupas, shrines, built over several centuries. This heritage bears testimony to the architectural and historical excellence from the past covering almost 2,000 years.

Odisha Tourism has been receiving PATWA International Awards for the last three years at the leading travel trade show, ITB Berlin. It has been participating in ITB Berlin for last few years for promotion of its tourism potential. A large number of tour operators and travel agents visited the Odisha Tourism stall at ITB Berlin 2013 and had fruitful interaction with delegates from Odisha Tourism.

Goa Tourism wins PATWA award for Best Beach Destination at ITB Berlin 2013

Goa Tourism won the PATWA award in the Best Beach Destination category on the second day of the ongoing five-day ITB Berlin 2013, which commenced on March 6. The award was given by Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) and was received by Dilip Paruleker, Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa. The award function was held at the International Congress Centre (ICC), Berlin.

The award has been given in recognition of the positive steps being undertaken by the Goa government for improving the image of the state as a safe and attractive tourism destination by implementing the concept of tourist police, proper regulation of beach shacks and watersports, improvement of infrastructure on all beaches, formulation of a tourism master plan and a new tourism policy, innovative marketing and promotions.

Paruleker expressed satisfaction and said that the award would cement Goa's position as one of the best beach destinations in the world. He further said that the state government would rapidly ensure completion of all tourism infrastructure works and see to it that Goa becomes a safe and a year-round destination. He felt that the award would boost international tourist arrivals to the state.

First Westin hotel opens in Chennai

Travelers eager to head to Southern India are in luck. As soon as they touch down from Air India flights to Chennai they can make their way to the city's newest hotel, which should help to usher in a new era of luxury travel. If you are in the midst of planning your next adventure, look no further than the bustling city of Chennai, which has recently welcomed the new accommodation.
Located just a 20-minute drive away from the airport for travelers who use a Chennai car rental, the Westin Chennai Velachery hotel is set to revitalize experiences in the southern portion of the country. With more than 200 rooms and suites to choose from, all with stunning views of the city or the landscaped grounds and top-notch amenities, guests will be able to find comfortable accommodations in this growing metropolis. The Financial reports that the hotel is something of a modern-day oasis for weary travelers, offering natural decor throughout the property and even a 10-meter waterfall in the lobby.
Nestled in Chennai's business district, the hotel is ideal for business travelers or jet-setters who want to be in the center of the action. It's the sixth Westin hotel in India and just one of seven expected to open in the Asia-Pacific region in 2013, making it easy for globetrotters going to any corner of the region to find a great place to stay, Business Traveller reports.
"The Westin Chennai Velachery is a significant addition to our strong Westin portfolio in India," said Brian Povinelli, brand leader for Westin. "... The prime location of The Westin Chennai Velachery and the draw of the signature Westin experience, designed to provide our guests a bit of well-being in the center of the vibrant city of Chennai, make us confident that this new landmark hotel will soon become a preferred destination for both business and leisure travelers."
Guests who are ready to dine on some local fare can take advantage of the three restaurants now open on the property. The eateries range from a poolside grill and Willows, a cricket-themed lounge to an all-day establishment called Seasonal Tastes. Of course, travelers are not limited to just the hotel's offerings, no matter how convenient and delicious they may be. Places like The Raintree, which is widely considered to be one of the can't-miss spots in Chennai,  serves up authentic Indian cuisine in a wonderful laid-back atmosphere.

India extends Visa on Arrival facility to four ASEAN countries

In an initiative to boost tourist traffic from Association of Southeast Asian (ASEAN) nations, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh recently announced Visa on Arrival (VoA) facility for nationals of Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and the Philippines. The facility can be availed starting January 1, 2011.

According to a report in Economic Times, while addressing the 8th India-ASEAN Summit in Hanoi, Vietnam Singh said, “We invite many more tourists from the ASEAN countries to visit India to see the splendour of its rich cultural heritage. As a concrete measure, I am happy to announce that we will extend our Visa-on-Arrival facility to the nationals of Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines and Laos with effect from January 1, 2011.”

Stressing that ASEAN was the core around which the process of economic integration of the Asia-Pacific region should be built, the Prime Minister said that India hoped to sustain nine-ten per cent growth rate in the coming years, thus offering a whole lot of trade and investment opportunities.

UNWTO Welcomes World’s One-Billionth Tourist

A British tourist visiting Madrid, Spain on 13 December has been revealed as the symbolic face of the one billion international tourists travelling in 2012.

The tourist was welcomed by the Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism of Spain, José Manuel Soria, UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, and the Mayor of Madrid, Ana Botella, at an event in Madrid’s Museo del Prado, held to celebrate a record one billion international tourists in 2012.

“Today, we welcome the symbolic arrival of the one-billionth tourist,” said Mr Rifai. “The one-billionth tourist, Mrs. Dale Sheppard-Floyd from the United Kingdom, is visiting Spain for three days. During that time she will experience a new culture, meet new people, support the local economy and help to sustain the jobs of waiters, tour guides and many more working in tourism, as well as of all those whose jobs are indirectly linked to tourism such as taxi drivers, food producers or shop attendees. If we multiply this impact by one billion, we begin to understand the enormous significance of reaching this milestone.”

The celebration was held in Madrid’s Museo del Prado, the city’s most visited tourism attraction, in the presence of UNWTO representatives and Spanish tourism and private sector officials, as well as many of the museum’s daily visitors from around the world. As it is impossible to know exactly where the one-billionth tourist arrived, many countries celebrated the occasion by also welcoming tourists arriving on 13 December.

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism of Spain, José Manuel Soria, thanked UNWTO for choosing Spain to celebrate the official celebrations of the international campaign and stressed that “Spain is one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, where the sector represents 11% of the country’s economy.” The Minister further highlighted the importance of tourism in economic development and job creation.

Minister José Manuel Soria noted that Spain was expected to reach a record 58 million international tourist arrivals in 2012, alongside an increase in tourist receipts. The Minister recalled Spain’s intention to increase and retain its large number of tourists who visit the country to experience its diverse tourism attractions.

“Madrid City Council is happy to be hosting this symbolic act, since it strengthens the reputation of the city as one of the world’s great tourism destinations. Tourism is one of the principal drivers of Madrid’s economy. Indeed, in its current strategic plan, the Madrid Visitors & Convention Bureau aims to transform tourism into a pillar of wealth and employment creation for the city,” said the Mayor of Madrid, Ana Botella.

The event was held as part of the UNWTO campaign, One Billion Tourists: One Billion Opportunities, calling on tourists to make a difference when traveling abroad and recalling the positive impact that even the smallest actions can have if multiplied by one billion.

Outside the Prado, as well as in Madrid’s famous Plaza Mayor, tourists visiting the city became Faces of the One Billion by adding their photos to a giant mural, reminding tourists that they are part of the one billion and that all their actions count.

Air India offers promotional fares for international flights

Air India Ltd has launched special all-inclusive promotional return fares for its international destinations. “The scheme is valid for out-bound travel with immediate effect to the Far East and Near East. On sectors to the US, the UK, Europe and UAE the validity of travel will be from January 21, 2013. The sale is open for seven days,” Air India said in a statement.

The return fares, inclusive of all taxes, under this scheme are incredibly low ranging from Rs 15,999 to the UAE to just over Rs.50,000 for the US, the statement said. “For travel originating at Delhi, the fares would be higher by Rs 2,000 to all the destinations. The fares have been launched for travel on more than 15 city pairs worldwide,” it said.

Some of the fares under the scheme are: America (New York, Newark and Chicago) Rs 51,999, UK Rs 40,999, Europe (Frankfurt and Paris) Rs 35,999 and UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah) Rs 15,999.

IHG Signs New Holiday Inn Hotel in Korea

InterContinental Hotels Group has signed a new Holiday Inn hotel in Korea.

 Scheduled to open in mid-2014, the Holiday Inn Incheon Songdo will mark the entrance of the Holiday Inn brand into Incheon Songdo – South Korea’s first free economic zone – and its third Holiday Inn property in South Korea following Holiday Inn Seongbuk and Holiday Inn Gwangju.

The 202-room property is nestled within Songdo Central Park, a green oasis in the midst of the country’s first international hub city. It is situated above the Central Park subway station and other attractions within the vicinity include Muui Island, Ulwang-ri, as well as famous Korean drama sets. It will be within close proximity to the Incheon International Airport, and a 40-minute drive from the Seoul Metropolitan areas. The area will also be further enhanced with medical centres, malls and entertainment facilities, which are all in the pipeline.

Spanning 16,000 square metres, the 12-storey property will offer a variety of rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, lobby lounge bar, a multi-purpose ballroom, as well as meeting and function facilities alongside business and fitness centres.

There are currently 112 Holiday Inn hotels and resorts spread across the Asia Pacific region with another 70 to come over the next three years.

ASSOCHAM asks for bailout of Kingfisher Airlines

The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) yesterday suggested a bailout for the grounded Kingfisher Airlines following the government's decision to rescue the ailing national carrier Air India, saying there is no difference in the financial woes of both the airlines. The suggestion comes within days of reports that LIC and the Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) snapped up the entire Rs 7,400-crore bond issue of the debt-ridden Air India, as per a PTI report.

“If Air India deserves to be given a bailout package, there is no reason why Kingfisher should be treated differently by banks and government organisations," D S Rawat, General Secretary, ASSOCHAM said in a statement.

Rawat's statement also comes days ahead of the November 30, 2012 deadline set by the bankers to the Kingfisher promoters to pump in fresh capital to the tune of USD one billion and table a comprehensive revival plan.

Sitting on a debt pile of over Rs 15,000 crore, including Rs 7,000 crore bank loans and payments due to various vendors and tax authorities, Kingfisher has not been operating since October 1 this year following a strike by its pilots and engineers over the non-payment of salaries.

Following the shutdown, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation had suspended its flying licence on October 19, 2012. “The circumstances under which both Air India and Kingfisher went down under are almost similar, largely emerging from demand slowdown, high cost of aviation fuel and other rising overhead costs," Rawat said.

However, some industry experts attribute the mounting losses and huge debt of the Vijay Mallya-owned Kingfisher to a flawed business model. As far as Air India is concerned, some parliamentary panels have attributed it's financial woes to factors such as giving away its profitable routes to private carriers and a flawed aircraft acquisition policy for the carrier.

Of the Rs 7,400 crore issues, LIC has agreed to subscribe to Rs 3,000-crore worth of non-convertible bonds while the rest Rs 4,400 crore worth bonds will be subscribed to by the EPFO. On its part, the government has announced Rs 30,000 crore bailout plan to revive Air India in April this year.

Air India offers stopover packages at Delhi airport

State-owned Air India is wooing passengers with several attractive offers, including a trip to Taj Mahal from its T3 terminal at New Delhi airport. The airline is offering stopover packages at competitive prices, including a visit to the Taj Mahal. Besides drawing more passengers, the latest effort also aims at promoting its T3 hub in the capital, which is being used by about 3,000 Air India's transit passengers daily. “The stopover package will enable passengers transfer-connecting on Air India flights over Delhi to experience the city, with a range of accommodation on offer to fit all budgets,” Air India said in a statement. Air India has established Delhi as its hub and it has designed its flight schedule in a manner that facilitates easy transfer connections at the T3, particularly from domestic to international flights and vice versa. The packages offer the facility of web-based hotel booking, airport/hotel transfers and sightseeing options in and around Delhi, Air India said. A range of hotels, from budget to five-star category, located in and around the airport having made available under various packages, including the hotel located inside T3 itself, it added. Besides, the stopover packages also offer 'day rates', which allows 'wash-and-change' facilities to the passenger at select hotels. In addition, it also offers overnight stay rates inclusive of airport pick-up, breakfast and taxes with option to upgrade room, extended stay, day-use rates for 'wash-and-change' facility (four/six hrs as per hotel rules), departure transfers, sightseeing as well as a day trip to the Taj Mahal, the airline said.

Ecotourism: Spreading its roots in India

Ecotourism in India is fast gaining prominence and more attention. All stakeholders of tourism industry are looking to cash in on the opportunities in this niche segment. The Centre and states are also gradually realising the immense potential of ecotourism, as India has all the ingredients required to be a world class eco-tourist destination write Arti Saggi and Lakshmi Vishwanathan

The thought process of today’s tourist has changed as he is aware of the hazards of harming the ecological balance. The ‘Green Laws’ of conservation has made people aware across the globe of how man and environment can live symbiotically for time to come and how ecotourism is the only way to maximise the economic, environmental and social benefits of tourism. Everyone is a stakeholder in the process and we clearly need to avoid our past shortcomings and negative impact that they have had.

In India ecotourism is gaining momentum. The government at the centre is already addressing this issue and is also promoting this concept in the country. Though the concept is new to the Indian travel trade it is catching on fast. In fact, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) India Chapter’s Environment and Ecotourism Committee is currently working on procuring an approval from the Ministry of Tourism (MoT), to mention the organisations which have won national and international awards for good environmental practices or ecotourism on their website, along with links. The primary objective of this move is to encourage eco-friendly practices in the industry. Currently, there are many certified hotels and travel companies in India that practice eco-friendly measures. If this approval comes through, these organisations have a chance of being promoted as recognised eco-friendly promoters on the MoT website, thereby garnering not just Indian, but international exposure.

Commenting on the move, Mandip Singh Soin, Chairman, PATA India Chapter, Environment and Ecotourism committee said, “We have worked closely with MoT, on popularising ecotourism in the country and the Ministry has always supported the cause. If approved, this initiative will help the organisations garner higher visibility, thereby resulting in better business.”

The PATA India Chapter’s environment and ecotourism committee’s long term plans also include facilitating certification of ecotourism operators, lodges, hotels and organisations. Commenting from MoT’s point of view, Sanjay Kothari, Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism, maintained, “The Ministry has always been actively promoting ecotourism in the country. As far as mentioning the names and links of reputed eco-friendly organisations on the website are concerned, we are yet to take a call on that front.” The India Chapter is hopeful that on grant of this recognition, more travel and hospitality partners would adopt eco-friendly measures

In addition, the centre earlier this year has decided to revise the existing ‘National Ecotourism Policy’. According to a highly placed source in MoT, “We will be soon formulating a new National Ecotourism Policy. Currently, the Ministry of Environment and Forests is working out the new guidelines. Once approved within their Ministry, the new guidelines will be incorporated in the current policy along with a review of the existing guidelines.”

The need to review the National Ecotourism Policy was spelt out by Ambika Soni, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture at a conference where she remarked that the existing National Ecotourism Policy needs to be revived in the light of the ongoing international debate on climate change.

“Often I come across complaints that our bio-diversity is being eroded further on account of adventure, wildlife and ecotourism. There is a genuine concern that adventure tourists are not only polluting the place, but have little regard for conserving the existing natural resources. Last year, when I took up the matter of reviving licenses of adventure tour operators with the Uttarakhand Government, these were the main issues that were highlighted by the Ministry of Environment of Uttarakhand,” said Soni.

Ministry of Environment and Forests is coming up with new forest based eco-tourism guidelines for revising the existing National Ecotourism policy. Currently, the recommendations made by the Tiger Task Force and other divisions within the Ministry of Environment and Forests are awaiting approval from the Ministry. Once approved, they will be sent to the Ministry of Tourism (MoT).

Rajesh Gopal, Inspector General of Forests and Member Secretary of National Tiger Conservation Authority, Ministry of Environment and Forests, said, “We are working on the guidelines to redefine the National Ecotourism Policy. There will be forest based ecotourism guidelines and recommendations on ecotourism in rural areas, which will help the local and ethnic belts to derive benefits from tourism. Currently, we have just put forth the recommendations. Once approved by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, the guidelines will be presented to the MoT. But, currently, everything is at an initial stage.” He further added, “By making new guidelines, unexplored areas can be brought under the tourism map of the country. If ecotourism practices are followed in restricted areas, then their potential can be harnessed for boosting tourism.”

Various states in the country, including the emerging ones in the toruism arena have made ecotourism as one of their main focus areas. There have been several initiatives ranging from creation of destinations cricuits, policies and Joint Ventures to promote and market this niche segment.

 

India will require 200 airports for general aviation by 2020: AAI

Looking at the burgeoning demand for air travel in India, V P Agarwal, Chairman, Airports Authority of India (AAI), said, “India would require 200 airports by 2020 for general aviation purpose.” He was speaking on the sidelines of the recently concluded CAPA (Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation) India Aviation Summit 2012. Elaborating on the subject, he said, “The growth in general aviation would benefit the aviation industry in Tier-II and Tier-III cities as a significant part of general aviation travel is focused on infrequently connected airports. By 2020, the Indian general aviation fleet is expected to reach 2000 from 680 today; growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13 per cent. The direct and indirect economic contribution of general aviation could be close to USD four billion per annum by 2020.”

Further he revealed that modernisation of 60 non-metro airports has been decided by AAI, out of which development of 35 airports have been undertaken. The modernisation work for 27 airports has been completed, whereas, work for airports like Khajuraho, Ranchi, Bhubaneshwar and Jaisalmer is expected to be completed by end of this year. Besides this, Raipur airport in Chhattisgarh is expected to be inaugurated by Pranab Mukherjee, President of India on November 7, 2012. Furthermore, planning is underway to start work for Goa, Vadodra, Imphal and Port Blair airports.

He stated that AAI has undertaken development of a greenfield airport at Pakyong in Sikkim with a target date of completion by June, 2013. Besides this, greenfield airports planned at Kohima in Nagaland and Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh are also in process.

“India is one of the fastest growing economies globally with an average GDP growth of over 8.9 per cent in last five years. Aviation is an important part of national infrastructure and is one of the prime movers for economic growth and employment generation. Air transport has grown at twice the rate of GDP. For past several years the growth has been impressive with international passengers growing at CAGR of over 14 per cent and domestic at almost 22 per cent,” he added.

At present India has 454 operational and non-operational airports / airstrips, wherein, AAI operates 125 airports, which includes 14 international airports, 80 domestic airports, 12 custom airports and 19 other civil enclaves.

Dr K Chiranjeevi sworn in as Tourism Minister

Dr K Chiranjeevi was yesterday sworn in as the Minister of State with Independent Charge (I/C) for Tourism, Government of India. He replaces Subodh Kant Sahai, who recently tendered his resignation as Minister for Tourism, Government of India. Dr Chiranjeevi said that he will “shoulder the responsibility” to the best of his ability to justify the confidence reposed on him by the Prime Minister and the ruling party. The Minister was speaking to the media soon after the swearing-in ceremony at the Rashtrapathi Bhavan here.

Addressing a crowded press conference in Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in Delhi, Chiranjeevi said that India is a country of “incredible heritage” and “rich culture” and has the potential to attract far more foreign tourists. A cine-star-turned politician, Dr K Chiranjeevi is a member of the Rajya Sabha from Andhra Pradesh since April, 2012.

AirAsia Launches KL - Lombok Flights

AirAsia has launched flights between Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Lombok, Indonesia.

 The new Kuala Lumpur – Lombok route is available 3 times weekly on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

 The route is the fifteenth Indonesian route that AirAsia operates from Kuala Lumpur, with a total of 17 from hubs in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Kota Kinabalu.

To celebrate the launch AirAsia is offering promotional all-in-fares from as low as RM149, with the booking period from now until 21 October 2012, for travel between 3 January and 31 March 2013. Terms and conditions apply.

The celebrations did not end in Kuala Lumpur. Flight AK 1408 received a grand welcome at Lombok International Airport upon touching down at 11.45am on the same day.

 “It’s an honour for us to welcome AirAsia to Lombok. The airline’s new direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Lombok will definitely contribute to the number of business and leisure travellers arriving into Lombok. This ‘bridge’ will greatly contribute towards strengthening Malaysian - Indonesian ties and help enhance the economy both ways, through more business and tourism activities,” said West Nusa Tenggara’s Vice Governor Ir. Badrul Munir. “We are proud to open more doors for visitors to experience the beauty and wonders of Lombok, a place which presents stunning sceneries, calming waters and adventurous outdoors, bound to satisfy the diverse preferences. The people of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara also benefit from this new connectivity, as they can now enjoy direct access to various places in Malaysia and the rest of the world via Kuala Lumpur as the gateway.”

Hong Kong Visitor Arrivals in August 2012

Visitor arrivals to Hong Kong in August 2012 rose 20.5% year-on-year to 4,898,843. [See: Hong Kong Visitor Arrivals in August 2011]

 In the first eight months of the year, visitor arrivals rose to 31,591,383, 16.0% more than in the corresponding period in last year.

In August 2012, Hong Kong received about 2.48 million overnight arrivals, which represented approximately 51% of all visitor arrivals to the city and more than a 10% increase over the same month in 2011.

 Same-day visitor arrivals exceeded 2.42 million (49.4% of total arrivals), up 32.2% compared with the previous August.

Cumulatively, overnight arrivals and same-day arrivals between January and August stood respectively at 15.68 million and 15.91 million, or 49.6% and 50.4% of overall arrivals.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board has also just published the “Total Tourism Expenditure Associated to Inbound Tourism” (TEAIT) for the first half of 2012, which was HK$138.37 billion, a year-on-year increase of 17.7%.

 The per capita spending of visitors also went up – with that of overnight visitors up 7.8% to HK$7,736 and that of same-day visitors up 3.8% to HK$2,075.