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Vol. XXXIII Issue 23; December 1st fortnight issue 2021 A DDP PUBLICATION Pages : 24 ` 20/-
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Airport on the anvil in Haryana...............................05
Virtual flexibility wins agents..................................10
Gearing up to talk tourism.......................................15
Vol. XXXIII Issue 23; December 1st fortnight issue 2021 A DDP PUBLICATION Pages : 24 ` 20/-
TravTalkIndia.com
ddppl.com
Aim to target traditional markets Elevating Aviation
Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Civil Aviation
Arvind Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, shares the way forward Minister seeks dip in VAT on aviation fuel and
for the Ministry, as the borders open for international tourists, including work hand-in-hand to boost the aviation sector.
international promotions, working with states, and upcoming events.
Nisha Verma
Nisha Verma Focus markets were happening in a digital mode.
In terms of focusing on We were doing many webinars, yotiraditya M. Scindia,
ow that borders are markets or countries for pro- or online and hybrid meetings. recently addressed a
opening, international motions, Singh shares, “We Now, associations are planning conference of the civil
promotions are a pri- will target traditional markets physical conventions and large aviation ministers from the states
ority for Ministry of Tourism, that have been doing very well meetings. Gradually, as vaccina- and the UnionTerritories, where
says Arvind Singh, Secretary of in the past, like the US, UK, tion improves and the number he urged that all the stakeholders,
MOT. “We are planning to launch France, Germany, Russia, and of active COVID-19 cases goes particularly the states and the
digital and social media cam- the top 10 markets. However, down, we will see more physical Union Territories, cooperate and
paigns within this month. We we will focus on the emerg- events,” he suggests. However, support the strengthening of the
also have plans to organise ing markets such as Australia, he adds that hybrid events will be civil aviation sector. Stressing that Jyotiraditya M. Scindia
physical events wherever pos- Singapore, Spain, Portugal, Arvind Singh the preferred mode as of now. this industry contributes a lot to Union Civil Aviation Minister
Secretary, Ministry of Tourism
sible. Apart from our India tour- Japan, and Korea, where the economic development of the
ism offices, the government has we have potential, but not Scheduled Flights country, Scindia says, “The Civil strive for the sector’s expansion
also nominated as many as 20 many visitors. Hence, these Change in promotions Ever since visas have opened, Aviation sector has suffered the and decentralisation.” Assuring
nodal officers in the missions. 20 missions, where we have While during COVID-19, all the industry has been request- most due to the pandemic in the the states and the union territo-
Hence, with their help, we nodal officers are in the top events and promotions were ing to restart scheduled inter- last year. With collective efforts, riess of full co-operation and
intend to launch promotional 10 markets and in the top 10 happening digitally, but things will national flights. Singh agrees, the industry can work to provide support from the centre, the
campaigns,” he adds. emerging destinations.” change now, he says. “All events Contd on page 8 better passenger facilities and Contd on page 18
No cut in wedding budgets IATO to drive tourism in Guj
Inspite of few flagging bookings, the unanimous opinion is that 2022 will Because of its efficient policy implementation process, in past two to
be a jackpot for the wedding industry, not just for domestic destinations three years, Gujarat inspite of COVID-19, has received 40 to 50 per cent
but with families venturing into international locations as well. of the FDI that came to India.
Hazel Jain tions emerging such as Vizag. Janice Alyosius every sector. Because of which, in
For families looking for offbeat the past two to three years, in spite
he great Indian wed- experiences and the novelty fac- he Indian Association of COVID-19, 40 to 50 per cent of
ding – a once-in-a-life- tor, our newly launched resorts of Tour Operators’ foreign direct investment (FDI)
time event for many – and hotels are being considered (IATO) hosted a lun- came to Gujarat, Shukla said.
has seen a tumultuous last 24 as attractive options as they also cheon meeting recently with
months. But the upcoming sea- double up as safe leisure get- Hareet Shukla, Secretary, Guja- Speaking of the government's
son promises to bring the colour aways,” he says. rat Tourism as the chief guest. plan to open its doors for interna-
back to an otherwise 'pale' in- Giving details about the tional tourists, he said, “We have
dustry. While many weddings To meet this demand, Radisson IATO’s 36th annual convention, a calendar of events, beginning
are back in full swing, albeit Hotel Group is offering immer- Rajiv Mehra, President, IATO up- from January, festival-to-des-
within the country, for others it is Rajeev Jain sive guest journeys customised dated members about the ongo- Rajiv Mehra tination ones such as Navratri,
still a wait and watch situation. Managing Director, Rashi Entertainment for couples, families, and their ing initiatives with the govern- President, IATO Saputra, Rann Utsav, so that
guests, with initiatives such as ment. Shukla invited the there is an event every alternate
Zubin Saxena, Managing Director ceremonies in-person, albeit with speedboat transfers and cham- members to Gujarat to discern tourism and discovering new month. We are also coming out
and Vice President (Operations), a focus on health and safety pro- pagne welcomes at resorts. the development made by the destinations for domestic and in- with destinations of world-class
South Asia – Radisson Hotel tocols. “Our hotels across Goa, Saxena adds, "We have further state and promised to make the ternational tourists. Stating that standards such as Kevadiya. We
Group, feels that the surge in vac- Udaipur, Alibaug and Lonavala introduced refreshed menus with experience memorable for them Gujarat is a progressive and poli- are keen to attract international
cination rates has given Indians and Karjat are seeing an uptick signature cuisine options from in Gandhinagar. The government cy-driven state, the tourism sec- tourist footfall to Gujarat.”
the confidence to host wedding in numbers with newer destina- Contd on page 11 is making efforts to promote retary said they have policies for Contd on page 15
BULLETIN
Airport on the anvil in Haryana
Haryana involves private stakeholders in planning and discussion of the upcoming Hisar
Airport. The state plans on developing the airport as an Integrated Aviation Hub. With the
airport coming up in the vicinity, Hisar and surrounding regions will develop.
Janice Alyosius The location of Hisar is impor-
tant because there is a lot of
embers from Civil Avia- urban development taking place
tion department, Gov- in the region. As per a study, it
ernment of Haryana was indicated that by FY 2024,
held a meeting with the private 2.1 million passengers are likely
stakeholders to discuss the from Hisar airport.
planning of Maharaja Agrasen
Airport in Hisar. The airport is Pradeep Kumar, Chief Advisor,
expected to provide opportuni- Pradeep Kumar Anil Kalsi Civil Aviation, Haryana. “Hary-
Chief Advisor Joint Secretary,
ties for growth and development Civil Aviation, Haryana TAFI ana is focusing on air cargo.
in Hisar and surrounding areas. This will help the economy of
It will be built on a 7,200-acre the state, especially the west-
plot of land with the development ern districts. Representatives
cost estimated around Rs 950
crore. As per a study, passenger Involving senior Hisar airport will from cargo associations at-
tended the meeting and pointed
traffic from Hisar is predicted to
reach 2.1 million by 2024.
representatives have many new out the shortcomings they have
witnessed in various airports in
will help in features which the past. Involving them in the
The objective is to develop Hisar
airport as an Integrated aviation successful run of are not there in planning stage and incorporating
their suggestions will help in the
hub, including the construction
of cargo railway line in addition
the airport existing airports run of the Hisar airport,” reveals
Pradeep Kumar, Chief Advisor,
to a passenger line. In the first Civil Aviation, Haryana.
phase, the licensing of the Hisar
airport as the first DGCA licensed integrated manufacturing cluster high-speed rail connectivity to Anil Kalsi, Joint Secretary, TAFI,
public aerodrome was com- is in process. In the third phase, New Delhi and separate lines/ appreciated the efforts taken by
pleted. In the second phase, the Aerospace manufacturing, Avia- yards for passenger and cargo the government and said, “Hary-
development is in process. The tion training centre and aviation are also being planned. Sudhir ana is taking inputs as to how
ongoing work involves site clear- university, building commercial Rajpal, Additional Chief Secre- the planning should be done and
ance for airport development, and residential aerotropolis have tary, Civil Aviation department, it is interesting facet that this is a
constriction of the runway, for- been planned. The project's third Haryana Government took note planned airport in India and it will
mation of SPV to undertake de- phase is proposed to be under- of the viewpoints and provided have many features that are not
velopment tasks and planning of taken through PPP mode. The suggestions to stakeholders. there in the existing airports”.
statistics
Survey forecasts slow recovery
VIEWPOINT Collinson and CAPA experts believe COVID-19 testing to ease curbs in most nations by
2022, thanks to vaccination. Verification processes are set in place at many airports and
entry points, in the wake of fraudulent COVID-19 testing results.
On the brink of revival?
TT Bureau
Much to the relief of the entire industry, border Respondents' percentage expectations of recovery by 2022 or 2023 relative to
restrictions have been rolled back, and foreign s the travel ecosystem
pre-pandemic levels, as well as their overall opinions of the global situation
continues to adapt to
tourists have started arriving on our shores. As of the ongoing COVID-19 Markets will not reach
20 per cent of pre-2019 levels
now, the industry is in a celebratory mode and India pandemic, a newly launched sec-
Feel travel to be more stressful
tourism offices have welcomed some of the first ond edition of the ‘Asia Pacific
Travel Recovery Report’ from Less than two-third of long-haul corporate
tourists with garlands, rose buds and kits.With the Collinson, a global end-to-end travel will return
spirits high, IATO has even announced its physical travel experiences, airport servic- Short-haul business travel recovery to pre-
pandemic levels
convention in December. es and travel medical company,
Dip in confidence despite the
and Centre for Aviation (CAPA) wiidespread vaccine rollout
Indian tourism has already tasted the flavour of do- survey predicts the recovery pro- Quarantine measures will be phased
mestic tourists, which reached new heights after cess for industry for the coming out by the end of 2021
year and beyond. Vaccine documentation is of 'vital' importance
the pandemic led to a shutting down of borders in
Concerned by reports of fraudulent
March 2020. It was domestic tourists, who kept the The over 400 C-Suite and senior Covid-19 test results
tourism business moving as they flocked to not just managerial level travel experts Testing to be the key to re-opening
of borders until 2022-end
from leading global travel brands
the tourist hotspots but explored new unknown des- reveal that they are expecting a Border re-openiing to ease by 2022
tinations too. It also boosted the number of homes- ‘full recovery’ to 2019 pre-pan- Complete recovery by 2023
tays, boutique hotels and many other alternate stay demic levels in 2023. In addition,
concerns around quarantine and 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
options. After serving domestic clients, all these
fraudulent COVID-19 test results
places are ready to receive foreign tourists and the continue to remain a worry.
hospitality industry is geared to service them. to be significant for re-opening line with Priority Pass’s global reach. Recovery to pre-COVID-19
Re-opening of borders borders until the end of 2022 and drive to enhance lounge experi- levels is likely to take longer than
The same gusto is seen in the aviation sector. While Polarisation with regards to travel continue until 2023. This mindset ences for travellers; with the any of the other sectors, with
international scheduled flights have not started yet, controls, testing and policies can be seen by the recent border introduction of Be Relax Spas respondents becoming less con-
across the globe continue to re-openings in Singapore, Austra- for the pre-flight relaxation, and fident due to travel curbs remain-
but the Vande Bharat operationsand flights with change over the course of the last lia and the United States; they cite contactless food and beverage ing imposed far longer than an-
many countries under air bubble agreements are few months. An increasing num- COVID-19 tests as components
making sure to bring not only Indians staying abroad ber of experts expect re-opening for reduced quarantine or even
home, but also foreign visitors who have been wait- quarantine-free travel. Research results of travellers' sentiments
ing to travel to India.The number of international v Compared to forecast of five months ago, the expectation of
To address the concerns of
flights operating to/from India now are around 40- The results show fraudulent COVID-19 test results,
travel resuming to pre-pandemic levels in 2023 has increased
v Fears of fraudulent travel and testing documents, as well as the
a likely increased
45 per cent of the pre-pandemic period. In 2019, Collinson is partnering with more
than 30 airlines, airports and impact of travel on mental and physical well-being, are predicted
there were around 1,200 daily international flights
desire to be technology providers across to remain top traveller worries.
in the winter schedule, but now in November-end the globe to help implement en- v Business and long-haul travel will continue to be the slowest-re-
2021, only 495 international flights were operated ‘away from the hanced verification processes at covering travel segments in 2022, while short-haul leisure travel
will experience a resurgence in some areas
maddening
key checkpoints in the journey
to/from India, ferrying over 75,000 air passengers. and to make accredited corona v In the Asia-Pacific region, optimism is low, as senior aviation
There is a rise in routes being announced for con- crowds’ testing accessible to travellers. and tourism professionals are more cautious than their
global counterparts
necting major cities with Tier II and Tier III cities, ow- Travellers' state of mind
ing to domestic demand. However, the same is still Many experts believe that travel is
of borders to ease or substan- ‘safe’ if everyone adheres to pre- offerings such as Ready 2 Order ticipated. According to a majority
not visible on the international aviation front. With
tially ease in 2022, while a third ventative solutions (e.g., wearing set to double its presence across of respondents, two-thirds of the
low number of flights and capacity allowed, the de- of global respondents still expect face masks, social distancing the lounges for a seamless business/corporate travel market
mand is high, and the airfare is skyrocketing. How- border reopening arrangements etcd.,). But that said, the figure dining experience. will be back in 2022.
ever, recently Secretary, Civil Aviation, has said that by governments to evolve at dif- has dropped, reflecting a de-
ferent rates in the next year. This crease in confidence level despite Reboot for business travel Priyanka Lakhani, Commer-
scheduled international flights are expected to start is a significant reduction from the the widespread vaccine rollout, While short-haul business and cial Director, Middle East and
by end of this year, which has been a long-standing April 2021 survey of 56 per cent, and given the nuances as to what corporate travel has made a Africa and Director South Asia,
demand by both inbound and outbound operators. where uncertainty dominated. individuals may consider to be cautious comeback in certain Collinson said: “This research is
safe solutions. sectors, there’s been little move- critical to understand the industry
We hope that it happens soon and with the vaccina- Signalling confidence in the test- ment between the April 2021 and sentiment and as a result, taking
tion rates getting higher by day, it would guarantee a ing protocols enabling a safer re- The results show an increased September 2021 surveys. On the the necessary steps to ensure
Happy New Year for everyone. turn to travel, several respondents desire to be ‘away from the other hand, long-haul business the safe and long-term return of
expect robust COVID-19 testing maddening crowds’. This is in travel remains the furthest from global travel.”
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mot december 1 st Fortnight issue 2021 TravTalk 7
Border tourism: Focus on Ladakh Children under 5 years
arriving into India will
not need COVID tests:
Border tourism in the state to be promoted by boosting confidence of locals. The Union Territory Health Ministry
Administration will soon launch its tourism policy, in which border tourism will be included. The centre The IRCTC and the MOT
recently announced to construct four new airports and 37 helipads to increase air connectivity to the region. sign an MOU to strengthen
the country’s hospitality
and tourism industry
Janice Alyosius the UT has potential in the tour-
ism sector. Ladakh has been an IATA reports: Undisciplined
adakh administration is attraction for international tour- passenger incidences are
emphasizing on pro- ists since 1974. The U.T. will be on the rise
moting border tourism organising a month-long Winter MoCA aims to double
in the region, and at the same Sports Festival for the adventure number of airports in India
time, the UT is focusing on pre- enthusiasts in Feb next year to
by 2023-24: Jyotiraditya
serving its environment, ecology promote winter tourism.
Scindia
& culture through responsible
and sustainable tourism. Rupinder Brar K Mehboob Ali Khan Jamyang Tsering Namgyal Rupinder Brar, IRS, ADG, MOT EaseMyTrip acquires Spree
The GoI has announced air con- IRS, Additional Director General, IRS, Secretary Tourism and Culture, Lok Sabha MP mentioned that border tourism Hospitality; adds new
Ministry of Tourism Administration of U.T. of Ladakh BJP Ladakh
nectivity to Ladakh by planning will enhance the lifestyle of the revenue vertical for the
to construct four new airports people in Ladakh’s rural areas company
and 37 helipads. Border areas and create employment oppor-
Global Destinations, now a
are sparsely populated and it is
necessary to bring the commu- Border tourism The Ladakh Since 1974, tunities for the locals.
proud member of the Global
nities into the mainstream, ex-
plains K Mehboob Ali Khan, IRS,
will enhance the Admn. stresses Ladakh has Brar says that physical connec-
tivity is crucial for the travellers
Travel Representation
Alliance (GTRA)
Secretary Tourism and Culture, lifestyle of the on Sustainable been an and service providers. “In last
MOT to have its iconic
Administration of U.T. of Ladakh.
rural areas in and Responsible attraction for few years, there has been a rea-
sonable thrust on development of
week in July 2022 for
Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav:
Though, Border tourism was not
popular in Ladakh due to restric-
Ladakh Tourism global tourists infrastructure such as roads and
telecom towers, which has Arvind Singh
tions of the border areas. “The brought both physical and digital The National Aquarium,
Administration has done away connectivity in the region in a bid largest aquarium in Middle
with the ILP for domestic tour- needs to be paid in Leh,” he said istration will launch its tourism Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, to promote tourism in the State,” East, opens in Abu Dhabi
ists though an environmental fee and informed that the admin- policy, with Border tourism. Lok Sabha MP, BJP Ladakh, said Brar says.
Revival of Odisha tourism
With the tourism sector excitedly anticipating a revival in the
coming days, EKTTA (Enterprising Knot of Travel & Tourism
Associates) is in 'Walk-the-Talk' mode.
TT Bureau An exclusive interaction Odisha for overall growth of
with Chairperson HRAO and tourism in the state. A riveting
KTTA resolved to re- Swosti Group, Jitendra Kumar presentation of Dubai Tourism &
vitalise focused action Mohanty was organised on Commerce Marketing (DTCM)
on the subjects it has the theme of ‘Vocal for Local’ in India supported the event
been talking about since its in- to create a synergy among the by educating our members on
ception, namely, empowering
and enabling the industry with
effective workshops and knowl-
edge sharing, catalysing organ-
ic and inorganic growth with
tie-ups and networking, and so
on, at its much-anticipated An-
nual General Body Meeting held
at Swosti Premium Hotel on
November 12. Without wasting local travel agents/tour opera- new products and opportuni-
any time, two crucial tasks were tors and the hoteliers with the ties, as well as the latest SOPs
carried out immediately follow- sole aim of bridging the gap in Dubai, in order to make it
ing the Annual General Meeting. between the stakeholders in genuinely experiential.
8 TravTalk december 1 st Fortnight issue 2021 interview
Incredible India still a strong brand
The key to developing tourism holistically is to have an integrated strategy between regional airports, regional
and national tourism boards of India, and airline/tour operators. Gavin Eccles, Managing Partner, GE Consulting &
Advisory, shares his perspective.
Hazel Jain adaptive to changing condi- caps on numbers of routes, and four-LCCs on product, service, Ryanair, on average, it is half
tions. In markets such as Eu- seats to be sold etc., It is time for and price. So, potentially six of their European legacy coun-
ow can the country rope, the key LCCs of Ryanair, the carriers adapted to the new airlines with no differentiation, terpart. Research focused on
develop its domestic Wizz Air and EasyJet are able realities and ensured that the de- and, when such a market has analysis by the Indian DGCA,
tourism? to work on pan-European mand drives the business. this kind of environment, it is highlights Indigo with an equiv-
Key, is an integrated strategy routes as the markets opened. the price that falls, and, com- alent of 2.9 ` per km, with Air
between the regional airports, However, the carriers such as Demand is higher than supply moditization kicks-in. India at ` 5.7 for the same trip.
regional/national tourism board British Airways, Air France, in India. Yet most Indian air- Indigo is working the cost-side
of India, and, the airline/tour KLM among others were con- lines are struggling. Why do Airlines cannot make money of the approach well, and,
operator partners. As Goa wit- necting North America, with Gavin Eccles you think this is so? when all are offering the same matches the halving of the flag-
nesses a reduction in airlines Asia-Pacific, were difficult for Managing Partner Stating that the airlines should goodies. Either become the carrier airline model that is Ry-
GE Consulting & Advisory
from Europe focusing on winter to re-start. Also, the flexibility be ready to work with the new anair v/s Lufthansa and the like.
sun, competitor destinations of the LCC model allowed much operational realities is only one
such as Mombasa (Kenya) and easier discussions with airports similar approach to that of LCCs half of the story. The other is However, the same research
Zanzibar (Tanzania) in Eastern to move to, two-week planning in the US and Europe have been commercial. Looking at the It is time for the shows Revenue per Available
Africa are gaining both char-
ters and new long-haul leisure
of services. following. IndiGo, SpiceJet, Go
First and Air Asia India should
Indian model, the four major
domestic focused LCC play- carriers to adapt Seat Kilometre (RASK) is at
` 3.4 for Indigo. So, it costs `
routes from Eurowings Dis-
cover. Incredible India is still a
What have we learnt as we
come through the pandemic?
be ready to adapt, and, look
at how they plan and support
ers are all similar. In essence,
there is no difference, and, as
to new realities 2.9 to fly, and, we make ` 3.4.
Ryanair, on the other hand, costs
strong brand, but a brand needs Well, an airline that has the route development, according Michael Porter says, “There and ensure that 3.2-euro cents to fly, and, they
more than just promotion. chance to make quick route
decisions, and build connec-
to key changes in the tourism
and aviation demand. Ensuring
can only be one cost-leader.
So, does that mean one is prof- business thrives make 4.2-euro cents. A differ-
ence of a 17 per cent increase
Since the pandemic, LCCs are tions on changes in consumer demand is driving supply, and itable, while the other three are on CASK to RASK for Indigo, vs,
being touted as the best model demand will be more effective. trying to adapt our supply to losing money. And, throw-in 34 per cent for Ryanair. Ryanair
to have. Is this true for India With this in mind, many ana- the new demand. The process Air India/Air India Express and low-cost leader, and push this is able to make such a difference
as well? lysts believe in the LCC model. should be in-place, and, airlines Vistara, that, are not LCCs by as a key DNA of your approach. in revenue generation with– an-
The pandemic has shown that Coming back to India, four of implementing accordingly, and, definition, are they not, also of- If you look at the Cost Available cillaries – that is, making money
the LCC model has been more the major six carriers follow a as the Civil Aviation removes all fering no real difference to the per Seat Kilometre (CASK) of beyond the selling of a flight.
MOT's iconic week in July 2022
Contd from page 3 he adds, “With international travel tended the event. In fact, many these guidelines will be circulat- try has tried to collect all these
easing, there will be confidence to states have come up with poli- ed to all the states very soon.” practices. We have discussed it
“The industry has been in touch organise and participate in more cies where they are giving in- However, when it comes to with the players who were ac-
with us. They have also been talk- physical events.” centives and trying to make it homestays or alternate accom- tive in this sector and have tried
ing to the MoCA, and the govern- easier for filmmakers to get per- modation, Singh says that the to come up with guidelines that
ment is aware of this concern. The Going digital mission to shoot in their states. goal is to collect best practices will encourage other states to
challenge is how to increase the Ministry of Tourism is working It was good to get the industry also go down the same path,”
number of seats available since on expanding NIDHI 2.0. “We and the states together, and we he stresses.
we are all operating in an air bub- want to expand it to include a plan to continue these series
ble regime and the demand seems database of tour operators and Arvind Singh
Secretary, Ministry of Tourism
with other states too. Hopefully, Once the situation National Tourism Policy
normalises, we
to be going up,” he adds. other stakeholders. We have set that will lead to easier shooting When asked about the long
up a self-certification system, permission in the states and at- pending National Tourism Policy,
What comes next
After the tourism and culture min-
making it much more robust. We
are also working on the national
towards making it easier to get all
the permissions. All the players of
tract filmmakers to come and
shoot more within the coun-
can plan a meeting Singh says, “Many things have
changed. The policy will be
isters’ conference of southern digital tourism mission, which the industry will be linked digitally, try, instead of going abroad of all the tourism launched soon."
ministers in
region and the ITM in Nagaland, will link all the stakeholders in and information will flow seam- and spending more money on
Ministry of Tourism is planning the system on one platform, as lessly. Hence, the increased adop- foreign exchange.” Amrit Ka Mahotsav
a meeting with the tourism min-
isters of all the states, reveals
has happened in the case of the
health sector. There will be many
tion of the digital applications and
techniques by the states will help Rural tourism
the country With regards to it, celebra-
tions for 75 years of Indian
Singh. “Once the situation nor- digital initiatives, which have been in the process.” After 2020 World Tourism Day, independence, Singh reveals,
malises, we can plan a meeting one of the highlights of COVID-19 there has been a lot of focus on “Every ministry has been given
of all the tourism ministers in the and have resulted in a shift to Film tourism rural tourism, assures Singh. of the sector. “Some states a week, which is known as an
country,” he adds. digital forms of communication Sharing that recently they had He adds, “There will be devel- and some parts of the coun- iconic week, where they have
and the use of more information conducted a symposium on opment towards rural tourism. try have done very well. In HP, to launch events. Ministry of
International travel shows technology based applications.” film tourism in Mumbai, Singh We also have a strategy papers Northeast India among others, Tourism's iconic week is in July
While the Ministry of Tourism dele- he confirms. claims, “We had a very good ready, as well as draft guide- one can see good examples 2022, and at that time there will
gation from India did not attend the response from nine states that lines for homestays, which are of homestays. Hence, one of be major events that we will be
WTM this year, Singh shares that Speaking about the single win- participated and showcased mainly in the rural areas, and the institutes under the minis- undertaking.”
the event saw participation from dow clearances for infrastructure their products. Positive feed-
Indian tourism representatives in development in states, Singh back came from representa-
Kerala has introduced Responsible Tourism (RT) Classification for hotels and resorts,
London. However, the response asserts, “Everything we are do- tives of the film and motion
was quite moderate. Regarding ing, including the national digital picture industry, television
giving added thrust to environmental protection and ecological-restoration. They will
participation in more such events, tourism mission, are all steps channels, and others who at- be classified into RT Diamond, RT Gold and RT Silver categories.
nto december 1 st Fortnight issue 2021 TravTalk 9
Spain is safe for tourism
With the acceptance of Covaxin for entry into Spain and with the majority of Spanish population fully vaccinated, the
European destination is bound to climb popularity charts for Indians once again, especially since the Consulate General
of Spain in Mumbai is processing visas in one day!
Hazel Jain Spain has been fully vaccinated. Visitors can fill the health decla- instructed by our Foreign Minis- Director of DDP Group. He said, from Sri Lanka. In the past few
We are processing visas very fast. ration form on the website www. ter to prepare a visit to India early “I give Spain full credit for being months there have been many
o take advantage of the The visa comes from BLS office spth.gob.es or by downloading next year. We hope this visit will the first European destination students going to Spain mainly
upcoming holiday sea- and it is processed within one day the mobile app ‘Spain Travel strengthen our relationship. This to open up. In fact, Spain feels to study architecture.”
son and with the World by the Consulate!” Health SpTH’. This will give them political development is further that by 2022, it may be back to
Health Organisation recognizing a QR code on successful valida- proof that Indians and Spaniards the pre-COVID levels in terms of Highlighting the strategy for the
Covaxin as a COVID vaccine in He added, “There is no need tion. This QR code is required are working together to identify tourist numbers. We don’t need outbound market, Elisa Robles
its Emergency Use List, the for quarantine when visiting for boarding and health control and promote our common inter- to be afraid of COVID, rather Fraga, Director of Turespaña in
Tourism Office of Embassy of Spain. There are three entry at entry. Minors under 12 years ests. This include commercial learn to live with it. I believe, the India, says, “We have a positive
and financial but also cultural most vaccinated country right outlook for the future. We have
and tourism. Tourism is an enor- now is Spain, which is remark- also introduced a microsite
mous field where we can work able. India, and in fact South that has information regard-
together and increasing tourism Asia, is expected to reach 29 mn ing Spain and safety norms
between the two countries will outbound tourists by 2024-25.” and regulations called ‘Travel
mean increasing our friendship.” Safe Spain’ and is available at
He revealed that in 2019, India Regional markets key https://travelsafe.spain.info/.
registered more than 83,000 Sharing her views on what I believe this will do an excel-
arrivals from Spain while Spain would attract more Nepalese lent job in conveying all relevant
welcomed more than 2,22,000 tourists to Spain, Ambica information. Spain is one of the
Fernando Heredia Noguer José María Ridao Helena Escorial Lopez Indian tourists. Shrestha, Honorary Consul of safest countries with strict hy-
Consul General HE Ambassador of Spain Head of the Consular Section
Spain in Mumbai to India at the Embassy of Spain in India
Spain is now Developing We work through
open for safe bilateral tourism BLS offices and
tourism as 90.5% between India visa applicants
of the population and Spain means must submit their
in Spain is fully increasing our visa applications Ambica Shrestha
Honorary Consul of
Priya Jayawardena
Honorary Consul
Elisa Robles Fraga
Director
vaccinated friendship as well through them Spain in Nepal of Spain in Sri Lanka Turespaña in India
Spain in India (Mumbai) recently
conducted a travel trade webinar.
requirements as tourist: a valid
Schengen visa, a vaccina-
are exempted from presenting
vaccination certificates. They
A key segment There have We have
Focused on the Spain (Schen- tion certification, and a health only need a valid Schengen visa of travellers from recently been introduced a
gen) visa for India, Nepal and the
Sri Lanka market, the session
declaration form. There is no
need to show your vaccination
and the QR code from the app
or website. However, children Nepal that visit many university microsite with
saw attendance from more than
2,000 participants from the
certification when you go to
apply for your visa. You only
between 12-18 years who aren’t
vaccinated cannot enter Spain.
Spain are those students going to information called
travel trade. need it to enter Spain. You can who travel for Spain mainly to ‘Travel Safe
One of the key announcements
enter Spain 14 days after your
second dose. With regards
Bilateral relationship
Speaking on the potential of bi- business study architecture Spain’
during the discussion was made to the vaccination, we have lateral relationship between the
by Fernando Heredia Noguer, some amazing news for our In- two countries, His Excellency
Consul General of Spain in Mum- dian friends. You can now enter José María Ridao, Ambassa- Sharing some key details on the Spain in Nepal, said, “A lot of giene and protocols approved
bai. He said, “We have good news! Spain with Covaxin also along dor of Spain to India, says, “Our procedures and requirements for people from Nepal have started by the Health Ministry and are
Spain is now open for tourism and with Covishield. No RT-PCR prime ministers – Narendra travelers for non-essential travel flying out of Nepal especially being followed at all tourism
safe tourism at that because 90.5 test required to enter Spain if Modi and Pedro Sanchez – visa, Helena Escorial Lopez, for their holidays. But the most establishments. With tourism
per cent of the target population in fully vaccinated!” met recently and we have been Head of the Consular Section at important segment of travel- activity picking up, we expect
the Embassy of Spain in India, lers that visit Spain are those to engage the travel trade even
said, “We work through BLS for business. For leisure, tour more with hybrid and physical
offices. Applicants must apply operators who create Europe events in 2022 in India, Nepal
through them and then we will packages now must include and Sri Lanka. We also have
resolve their visa application. Spain. Nepalese people, mostly plans to organise FAM trips for
Regarding Nepal and Sri Lanka, families, feel they must visit the trade next year.”
there is a BLS office in Kath- Spain. Madrid and Barcelona
mandu. For Sri Lanka, they can are the most popular places.
come to New Delhi to apply at The market needs to be devel- Key announcements
our Embassy or through office oped further to have more Nep- v 90.5% of the Spanish
of BLS in India, or through the alese people visit other places population fully vaccinated
Embassy of France in Colombo. in Spain as well.” which makes Spain a safe
Spain welcomes all tourists from destination for tourism
India, Sri Lanka and Nepal.” Priya Jayawardena, Honorary v Covaxin now accepted for
Consul of Spain in Sri Lanka, entry to Spain
The session was moderated by said, “Apart from tourism, many v Faster visa processing
Sanjeet, Founder & Managing business people also visit Spain
10 TravTalk december 1 st Fortnight issue 2021 AGENTS
Virtual flexibility wins agents
Virtual events have been a lifesaver for the travel industry during the pandemic. A targeted audience, low cost, and
maximum results are making agents and NTOs stick to webinars and online travel shows. Online events help in reaching
out to a wider audience, giving a chance to interact with suppliers from remote destinations.
Nisha Verma person." As a result, everyone Innovations galore sidered as platforms for B2B form or company has done,” ers from remote destinations,
saves time and has access to While virtual events existed prior engagements, events, and exhi- he claims. which were either not visible
he pandemic saw all the information they require. to the pandemic, they have got- bitions. COVID-19 made people earlier or had never participated
technological solu- While meeting in person has its ten a new lease on life in the last think of them as a way of con- Learnings in physical events before.”
tions for meetings own benefits, attending online two years, thanks to an increase necting with potential buyers, Qari says that keeping the audi-
run over time, with people dis- events allows you to be spe- in the number of users. Qari en- and they have been active since ence actively engaged is essen- Munshi's big takeaway from
covering a new way to conduct cific and focused on what one joys the breakout sessions in May 2020,” he claims. tial, e.g., by throwing questions virtual events has been that
B2B meetings, conferences, is looking for. "Virtual will be and asking for brief input, etc. they provide information on
and exhibitions. the way forward for specialised More targeted what's going on in the industry
and time-specific events even Saraf claims that virtual events and new trends. "People have
The positives after physical events open," are more targeted. “They defi- attended virtual meetings to
Harmandeep Singh Anand, MD, Harmandeep adds. nitely save time as you do not update and educate themselves
Global Panorama Showcase have to travel for them.” across all parts of the trade,
(GPS), one of the first physi- Zahoor Qari, Chairperson & not just tourism." This is the
cal shows with a strong focus Managing Executive, Air Links Echoing similar thoughts, most efficient strategy, we were
on technology and virtual par- Tours and Travels, also says, Bhalla adds, “Virtual meetings saved by the virtual world since
ticipation. "The most significant “Virtuality provides us the Riaz Munshi
save a lot of time as webinars we were able to obtain informa-
benefit of a virtual event is that President are largely attended. Secondly, tion and stay connected. People
participants can access or con- OTOAI virtual meetings give access to will use this platform for target-
Shravan Bhalla
nect at their convenience. Since all the agents in tier-2 or 3 cities General Secretary ed meetings in the future, sav-
2016, GPS has been doing so to be a part of the events.” OTOAI ing time and money," he adds.
by going paperless and using
the GPS Connect App and an Virtual will be the Anand says that while everyone Suggestions
way forward for can walk into a physical event, in
virtual events, both buyers and Agents from
In order to make sure that agents
do not just attend virtual events to
specialised and sellers can filter their meetings
accordingly. “International desti- small towns showcase their presence online
without gaining any knowledge.
Manoj Saraf
Managing Director
time-specific nations can only have meetings and cities were Bhalla suggests, "To overcome
Gainwell Travel
events able to connect
these issues, the destinations
digitally
One can connect virtual events since they allow
for targeted talks. "Being from
Harmandeep Singh Anand
Managing Director from anywhere, J&K, though, having high-speed “Otherwise, there is a tendency
saving money,
Global Panorama Showcase internet and an uninterrupted for the audience to lose interest.
power supply is a bit of a 'wild Virtual attendance saves com-
time, and logistics goose chase. I would want
some innovations to ensure Zahoor Qari
muting time, so the attendees
have more time to spend with
Participants can in the process the availability of alternatives to
Chairman & Managing Executive
Air Links Tours and Travels family and engage in personal Monia Kapoor
access or
EC Member of OTOAI and
those key factors for successful care activities,” he adds. CEO of Travel O Holidays
online events.”
connect to virtual luxury of attending events in Saraf says that ultimately, a hy-
events at their
the comfort of our own homes. "Since virtual events became a Virtuality provides brid model or a combination of
Therefore, we are relaxed and reality on Zoom, Google, and
the luxury of
both virtual and real meetings
Online events
convenience more focused.” other such platforms, there will emerge as the way forward.
help in
have been a lot of improvisa-
attending events
Lifeline during the pandemic
Shravan Bhalla, General Sec-
tions," Saraf adds. A travel trade
show such as SATTE, WTM, or in the comfort of
Bhalla agrees that the webinars
save time. Also, he mentions reaching
online platform to connect buy-
ers and sellers. "GPS Connect is
retary, OTOAI, claims that
there were many advantages
ITB, for example, provides the
feel of a real event with real our own homes
that with most countries opening
doors for Indians, they feel many
out to a wider
a recurring platform that allows for a travel agent during the people behind virtual booths." issues related to travel (visa audience
buyers and sellers to connect pandemic to attend various issues, COVID-19 protocols,
whenever they want by mutual webinars and exhibitions. The video feature of such events, with outbound operators, while health pass, air bubble, flight is-
agreement," he explains. “They got connected to the according to Monia Kapoor, EC domestic operators can only sues etc.) are being addressed. should provide a quiz session, with
right people for future busi- Member of OTOAI and CEO of focus on states and not NTOs. This “We are pleased that the prices at the end, so as to keep them
Agrees Manoj Saraf, MD, ness prospects. When there Travel O Holidays, is a terrific as- plays a major role in virtual plat- majority of tourism boards are active throughout the webi-
Gainwell Travel, “The best part was no business or hardly set. "The aspect of virtual events, forms,” he claims. actively engaging with agents nar and, at the end, offer a
of attending an event online is any business, all agents kept which permits video conversa- by hosting virtual joint events participation certificate to the ac-
that people can connect from themselves busy by gaining tions and direct communication He also informs us that with and inviting visa counsellors and tive participants."
anywhere in the world, and knowledge and updates on with one other, gives them the GPS Connect, agents can ac- airlines to address various pro-
save money, time, and logistics various destinations and virtual impression of a physical event cess previous webinars, which cedures and protocols and an- He also adds, “We have seen
in the process.” product training events. It was and is critical for all events." were held three to six months swer relevant questions/issues a state few tourism boards
the only way to stay connected back. “It is like a Netflix platform to make things easier.” make the virtual events lively
The convenience of a vir- with colleagues. In fact, agents Anand adds that despite being created for the industry, where by making agents participate
tual event, according to Riaz from small towns and cities in existence for almost 10 years, buyers can watch the webinar or Online events help in reaching in cocktail or mocktail-making
Munshi, President, OTOAI, is were able to connect digitally, virtual platforms like Zoom and a session that we conducted at out to a wider audience, claims virtual events by sending a
unrivalled. "There's no need to which was not always possible Google were only used by large their own convenience. In terms Kapoor. “We have had a chance personalised kit to all registered
travel, and you will have more for them when they attended corporates based in Europe and of technology, that is what GPS to interact with many smaller participants, making it a fun-
time to interact with the other actual meetings.” the US. “They were never con- has done, which no other plat- destinations as well as suppli- filled event.”m!ce december 1 st Fortnight issue 2021 TravTalk 11
Wedding industry to witness rise
Contd from page 3
demic is more or less over now. I and the like are doing roar-
our more than 100 hotels. With believe that international weddings ing business currently. We all
the pace of travel and consumer are opening up fast, and by 2022, should be prepared to cater to
confidence levels both picking we will witness many international an increase in weddings that
will take place in the next year,
with new domestic destinations
and out-of-the-box ideas at our
disposal. For all of us, we all
have huge business opportuni-
ties for the coming seasons.
The client/s will spend more on
entertainment as new concepts
arise. The expenditure on food
and clothes will also increase as
Zubin Saxena Meera Charnalia the number of functions go up
MD and Vice President (Operations), Senior Vice President & Head
South Asia – Radisson Hotel Group MICE significantly since they are being
held in India. "
Meanwhile, Meera Charnalia, hosting sun-downer weddings," has its resorts are doing well for budgets depend from client to
We are optimistic Customers Senior Vice President & Head
(MICE), Thomas Cook India
Charnalia adds. pre-wedding shoots, Upadhyay
claims. “It is about convenience
client. It starts from `25 lakh
onwards. That is why you can
about this are also open reveals that her division has Small, convenient weddings when it comes to destination see every year at least 10 to
wedding season to the idea of
executed several weddings and Perhaps as a result of the pan- weddings now. Hence, city 12 luxury resorts opening up in
related events this year, with a demic, many families, it seems, banquets such as Indore, Pune, India," Singh opines.
with consumer planning it on several events lined up in the
next few months. "The wed-
are opting for convenience rather
than sticking to saya dates. Atul
Nagpur, Ahmedabad, New Delhi,
and Kolkata are equally popular. Meanwhile, Jitendra Kejriwal,
confidence non-saya dates dings are mostly booked during Upadhyay, VP (Operations) at Our locations at Bharatpur, Ra- Chairperson of Arika Tour &
picking up this year
the saya dates, but due to the Pride Group of Hotels, feels op- jkot, Puri, Goa, Mussoorie and Travels and Chapter Chairper-
COVID-19, the customers are timistic that COVID-19 cases are Dapoli are quite popular and son, IATO-Maharashtra, states
also open to the idea of planning declining and restrictions are be- busy. Our team allots an internal that the entire wedding indus-
them on non-saya dates this
up, we are optimistic about this weddings across the world. Do- year. A majority of these are des-
wedding season. " mestic destinations are already tination weddings with themed
an 'in' thing now. We are getting weddings. The families of brides
Are saya dates still winning? enquiries, but all are for saya dates and bridegrooms are now dis-
One of the most ardent advocates only," he says. playing an appetite for increased
of non-saya, or non-auspicious spending in order to move out
dates for Indian weddings, Rajeev Forever the optimist, though, of their home location to host
Jain, Managing Director at Rashi Jain adds that one will find many the ceremony at a dream loca-
Entertainment, feels that the Indian new opportunities opening up tion. Some of the destinations
wedding industry continues to such as new domestic desti- in demand for lavish weddings Atul Upadhyay Dharmendra Singh Jitendra Kejriwal
VP (Operations) Director, Plaisir Hospitality Services and Chairman of Arika Tour & Travels and
at Pride Group of Hotels Maharashtra Chapter Chairman, ADTOI Chapter Chairman, IATO-Maharashtra
Small weddings We are getting All wedding
have become the queries and two properties have
new normal with of them are in the been sold out.
live streaming finalisation stage We are looking
and virtual guest for February and at Indore and
attendance March 2022 Hyderabad
suffer because of the pandemic. nations. Jain adds, "Dedicated include Jaipur, Udaipur, Hyder-
"But we at Rashi believe that the tourist spots such as Goa, Jai- abad, Lonavala, Mahabalesh- ing eased. "With the new normal, representative to each event,” try is sold out until February
Indian wedding industry will wit- pur, Jodhpur, Mahabalipuram, war, and Alibaug among others. the wedding business will take- says Upadhyay. 15, 2022. "All bookings are
ness a significant rise as the pan- Udaipur, Kerala, and Khajuraho Goa and Kerala are famous for time to revive. But currently, the exclusively in India this year
wedding season looks promising. No budget cuts and all wedding properties are
Many have taken the vaccination, Only those families that can af- sold out, including for non-
and at this point, small weddings ford to spend, plan for fantasy saya dates. The rates for saya
have become the new normal, weddings on dream destina- dates have skyrocketed.The
with live streaming and virtual tions, says Dharmendra Singh, Leela Goa is around ` 45,000 to
guest attendance alongside. Yes, Director, Plaisir Hospitality Ser- ` 50,000 plus taxes per night."
this goes for non-saya dates as vices and Maharashtra Chapter
well. Nowadays, it’s more about Chairman, ADTOI. "We are get- "The clients’ budgets are the
availability, convenience, and ting queries and two of them are same as pre-COVID-19 levels;
combining with holidays rather in the finalisation stage for Feb- they have not come down and
than just saya dates," he says. ruary and March 2022. People the people are okay with spend-
are interested in doing destina- ing now." For March 2022, some
Destinations such as Goa, tion weddings in places like Goa, of the clients are inquiring about
Dapoli, Gangtok, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Jodhpur, international wedding destina-
Mussoorie where Pride Group and Jaipur. Nowadays wedding tions," Kejriwal adds.12 TravTalk december 1 st Fortnight issue 2021 cruises
Indians holiday into a new dawn
Cordelia Cruises is working closely with the Government of India, the shipping authorities, the port authority, as well
as the travel industry to ensure that Indian travellers can experience the joys of cruising safely even within the country
and outside it, whilst enjoying the benefits of an Indian offering which is on par with global standards.
Hazel Jain Cruising, after all, is a great op-
tion to unload the stress, relax
ordelia Cruises by Wa- and holiday. What, after all, is
terways Leisure Tour- better than being away from
ism Pvt ltd is India's the hustle and bustle of our
only premium cruise liner. True maximum cities than immersing
to its name, Cordelia Cruises ourselves in the expanse of the
aspires to promote and drive the ocean on a cruise which offers
cruises culture in India through something for everyone and of
experiences that are for fami- every age group.
lies, stylish, luxurious, and
most importantly, inherently Cordelia Cruises is working very
Indian. It's a cruise for Indians closely with the Government of
catering to the way Indians love India, shipping authorities, port
to holiday. authority, and travel industry
to create a future when travel
Cordelia Cruises is the new way can safely start again after the
to holiday that eliminates all the current pandemic of Corona
hassles of multiple travels to passes away, and Indians can
reach your destination, curat- cruise and enjoy the proud
ing and following itineraries etc. Indian offering of global
Cruising is the new and super- standards and quality.
agents can avail of their advanced There will also be simple home- non-stop entertainment, musical
online booking platform. Also, made pasta, burgers, and pizzas performances, live bands, ad-
the best part for travel agents is at 'The International Grill' and venture activities and shopping
also that they get a 10 per cent exotic kebabs and bread at 'Hot that ensures 24X7 entertainment
upfront cut, there is no long Clay Tandoor'. for everyone on-board!
waiting for that.
There will be dedicated Jain cui- Everything offered on-board
Eclectic cuisine sine service for guests to enjoy Cordelia cruises is especially
Given that food is arguably one traditional Jain dishes. Authentic designed and meticulously cu-
of the most important aspects Indian recipes is on offer at the rated to cater to the likeness
of hospitality, Cordelia has part- 'Vegetarian Bang'. There is also of our Indian audiences. The
nered with the Apollo Group homestyle thali restaurant being preferences of cuisine, Bolly-
for its food and drink offerings. introduced onboard. A variety wood centric music and dance
With immense variety, the food of comforting hot soups, subs, shows, magic performances
aboard Cordelia includes a and rolls will be available at the etc. And we take pride in offer-
plethora of cuisines and flavours 'Kettle & Bunn' and classic Indian ing all that is liked by our au-
catering to wide ranging palates sweets to specialty cakes and diences. It’s safe to say that
and tastes. From flavours of In- pastries to satiate your sweet Cordelia is Indian at heart with
dia to authentic vegetarian and tooth at ‘Sugar N Spice’. most of its crew being Indian
lative version of a #staycation. Upfront agent cut booking convenience of all age international cuisines, we also offering the best way India likes
It’s a one stop travel destination It is key to note that Cordelia be- groups. Alternatively, guests can cater to preparations for our ded- The Empress comprises 796 to holiday.
that covers everything you might lieves in delivering these experi- also reach out to travel experts at icated Jain customers. Some of cabins, 11 decks, food pavilion,
wish for in your travel itiner- ences right from the guest’s first their contact centre for booking the highlights include an eclectic a fine dine restaurant, speciality Since it’s launch, Cordelia
ary. From breath-taking views, interaction with them. They have assistance or get in touch with mix of flavours from Kashmir restaurants, bars, lounges, busi- Cruises is proud to have suc-
adventure activities, music and an end-to-end fully online reser- their nearest travel agents for to Kanyakumari and Mumbai ness centres, spa, salon, dive in cessfully catered to ensuring
dance, international cuisine, ev- vation system designed for the Cordelia Cruise bookings. Travel to Kolkata at 'Essence of India'. theatre, casino, marquee theatre, best holiday experience to
erything is taken care of under those who have been on-board
one roof. with us. We have received
great positive feedback from
Entertainment 24x7 our travel partners and guests
Cruising through this holiday alike. We have been praised
you will witness India's most for our efficacy in seamlessly
popular entertainment shows at travel bookings (online and
the Marquee Theatre with en- offline), addressing queries
thralling ‘live’ music and stand- and complains, offerings and
up comedy gigs, mesmerizing discounts and most important-
magic shows, outdoor movie ly our services once the guest
nights and professional theatre is sailing.
performances. Unparalleled ex-
citement for everyone will keep For the team at Cordelia Cruises,
you entertained throughout your it is motivating to hear positive
stay onboard. To add to this, you feedback which in turn gears
may just be lucky enough to see up everyone at Cordelia team
Dolphins prancing around in the to do and offer their best to all
sea while you hang out on the those who want to make their
sprawling deck, sipping a hand holiday a memorable and
crafted cocktail. unforgettable experience!You can also read
