COMPLETELY OFF TARGET - UNION BUDGET 2022-23 - TRAVELBIZ MONITOR
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R.N.I. No. MAHENG/2007/22231 Reg. No. MCS/180/2019-21 vOL 15 | ISSUE 09 | Pages 24 February, 2022 Price: 40 www.travelbizmonitor.com 1 Union Budget 2022-23 Completely Off Target
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TravelBiz Monitor | February, 2022 | 03 India@dctabudhabi.ae #GetawayToAbuDhabi #InAbuDhabi #TheTimeIsNow
For news updates and more information
4 news round up TravelBiz Monitor February, 2022
n log on to www.travelbizmonitor.com daily
Body Blow for cruise tourism with the winding
up of Genting Hong Kong’s brands
TBM Staff | Mumbai before terminating operations here after burning hands with high
operational costs and expensive port charges. It, however, gained
T he cruise industry globally, and specifically in Asia has been
dealt with a body blow with the winding up of Genting Hong
Kong that owns the Star Cruises, Dream Cruises and Crystal Cruises
popularity in the Asian waters having made the fly-cruise concept
an aspiration for Indians with the Star Cruises’ brand ships being
home ported in Singapore. Having gained popularity among Asian
brands. The company failed to secure funding to pay its debts after the travellers, so much so that India became its number one fly-cruise
insolvency of its shipbuilding subsidiary, MV Werften in Germany. source market for the Star brand, Genting Hong Kong launched
Separately, Dream Cruises has also filed a winding-up application Dream Cruises as its up-scale brand with much fanfare couple of
with the Bermuda Courts. years ago.
TravelBiz Monitor contacted India representatives and officials of The fallout of Genting’s closure will have immediate and direct
Genting Cruise Lines, however, they refused to comment. impact locally as well as internationally with millions of job losses,
curtailing or complete closure of dedicated cruise teams in travel
agencies, already embattled with massive loss in business due to the
two long years of pandemic.
Genting Hong Kong’s Chairman and CEO Lim Kok Thay resigned
and its deputy CEO, Au Fook Yew also stepped down, the company
informed in a filing to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange last week.
Earlier this month, the company had warned that it faces potential
cross-default amounting to USD 2.78 billion, following the insolvency
of its German shipbuilding subsidiary, MV Werften, after it failed to
secure funding for the completion of its Global One mega-liner.
Genting Hong Kong is part of a bigger conglomerate that also
includes Genting Malaysia and Genting Singapore. Among its assets,
the conglomerate owns the Resorts World leisure park chain, which
includes those in Singapore, New York City, and the United Kingdom.
Cruising in Asia, with sailings out of Singapore was dominated by It also has 30 casinos across the U.K. Genting also owns the Resorts
Genting Hong Kong. In fact, it was the Star brand that introduced World theme park in Manila, and Crystal Cruises line which offers a
the cruising concept in India in the mid-2000s with Mumbai sailings range of round trips from Miami, Antarctica and Barcelona.
National Ropeways Development Programme will boost Alex Cruz may take
tourism in the country: Aditya Chamaria, MD, DRIL over as Air India CEO
Prasenjit Chakraborty | Mumbai hope that all of these ropeways will be on the TBM Staff | Mumbai
Make in India initiative that will boost tourism
N irmala Sitharaman, Union
Minister while announcing the Budget
2022 mentioned that as a preferred
Finance and various Indian industries that make various
equipment, construction, material, etc.,” pointed
out Chamaria.
Aviation veteran Alex Cruz,
former chairman and CEO of
British Airways, might take over
ecologically sustainable alternative He also said that wherever a as Air India CEO soon. Cruz
to conventional roads in difficult ropeway is created, it leads to an headed the
hilly areas, the National Ropeways influx of tourists. “It is especially British Airways
Development Programme will be taken true for temples on hills that require for five years
up on the PPP mode. The aim is to people to climb; the traffic increases till 2020,
improve connectivity and convenience significantly if a ropeway is built. after leading
for commuters, besides promoting The surrounding areas of ropeway Spanish low
tourism. see parking facilities, shops come cost airline
Hailing the move, Aditya Chamaria, up, and infrastructure improvement. Vueling.
MD, Damodar Ropeways & Infra Limited (DRIL), The ropeways set off a chain reaction of overall Cruz quit from his role in British
said, “We are happy that the Government has taken development,” said Chamaria. Airways after the airline cut
note of the importance of ropeways in commuting The Government’s focus on ropeways in 13,000 jobs in October 2020,
and promoting tourism. The announcement of the congested cities where conventional modes of owing to the Covid-19. Later,
National Ropeway Programme, where 8 projects transport would not work, speaks volumes about the he stepped down as chairman
will be taken up on PPP basis, will help accept government’s futuristic planning for the country. too. An MS in industrial
ropeways as a mode of transport.” The Budget’s focus on improving connectivity, engineering from Ohio State
Talking to TravelBiz Monitor, he said that the especially through sustainable modes of transport University, the veteran is also a
new projects would hopefully come up in the areas such as ropeways, will take India on a path of professor at the IESE Business
that were not previously accessible. “If that is the growth, help in increasing tourism and lead to School. However, Tatas haven’t
case, there will be a major impact on tourism innovation in the cable car industry. officially commented on Cruz’s
depending upon the place’s popularity. We also prasenjit.chakraborty@saffronsynergies.in appointment yet.
www.travelbizmonitor.com
TravelBiz Monitor February, 2022
n Spotlight 05
© Emmanuel Virin © Emmanuel Virin
Reunion Island
TBM Staff | Mumbai
R
eunion Island ticks all
the right checkboxes
A Land of Paradise
for an island getaway.
Breathtaking scenery, a
balmy tropical climate year-round,
and a friendly population that will
be delighted to share Reunion’s
fusion cuisine and culture with cari poulet, rougail saucisse: there’s Seychelles as well as Mauritius. from a visit of underground
you. And in addition, a range a long list of local delicacies that The music from Maloya is lava caves, to mountain biking,
of leisure and outdoor activities you can – and should – savour. The unique to Reunion Island. Sega canyoning, horse riding, or an
offered to you to complete your island’s cuisine is a mouthwatering has a distinct resemblance to exciting paragliding experience
island experience! blend of Indian, Chinese, African, the ballroom dance genre and is above the lagoon. In Reunion
Located east of Madagascar in and European-influenced dishes. usually accompanied by beats from Island, you can experience a wide
the Indian Ocean, Reunion Island For an in-depth discovery of the western instruments, including array of outdoor activities in an
is undoubtedly one of the most ingredients and spices that go into the guitar and the harmonica. exceptional natural environment.
unusual island paradises on the the cuisine, a visit to a farmer’s In contrast, Maloya is a musical Its temperate climate ensures that
planet and woos its visitors with its market is recommended. At least expression that is native to the these experiences can be enjoyed
charming French way of life. one farmer’s market takes place on island. It is a type of ceremony almost all year round.
While the island has an array of the island every day. The two best- dance performed during the night Trek on scenic hiking trails: The
factors that contribute to its appeal, known are Saint-Paul on Fridays and usually around a lit bonfire. island has more than 1,000 km of
one of its most striking features is and Saturdays, and Le Chaudron Maloya, which combines music, well-signposted paths, and there
its cultural and ethnic diversity. (in Saint-Denis) on Wednesdays song and dance, is a tradition that is something to suit all tastes and
The unique Creole culture—a and Sundays. The island is also has been passed down for several abilities. Must-trek hikes will take
result of ethnic mixing—is a very well-known for its rhum generations on Reunion Island. It you to the summit of the Piton des
testament to a culture shaped arrangé which is a combination of was brought by slaves from East Neiges, into the remote, isolated
by an amalgamation of Indian, local rum and fruits left to macerate Africa or Madagascar. Since 2009, cirque of Mafate, to Grand Bénare,
African, European, Chinese and for 6 months to 2 years. Maloya has been classified as an or to Roche Ecrite. Shorter walks
other cultures. Temples, mosques, Music & Dance: Two distinct intangible cultural heritage of are also possible, for example
churches and pagodas stand in music forms are known to have humanity by UNESCO. around Grand Etang lake, at Voile
unity on the island, and visitors are originated on Reunion Island. Outdoor sports activities: The de la Mariée waterfall, or to the
invited to take part in the several Sega and Maloya. Sega is a island is a paradise for those who headland of Cap Jaune.
different cultural festivals that music genre typical in Rodriguez, enjoy adventure sports. Choose Saint-Gilles’ Vibrant Night
are held through the year. These Life: Don’t leave the island without
diverse factors contribute to the experiencing its dynamic night
appeal of the island. life. The locals of the island love
festivals and celebrations. In the
5 compelling reasons to visit district of Saint Gilles, you will find
Gastronomy: The island’s cultural spirited bars and restaurants where
diversity can be seen in the you can eat, drink, and dance all
delectable gastronomic specialties night. Apart from that, one can also
available to visitors. With each enjoy jazz lounges, live bands, and
culture ascribing to a particular traditional island performances –
set of flavours, each delicacy is all promising a good night out on
a representation of the different the town!
cultures who reside on the island. For more information
Samoussas, bouchons, bonbon on Reunion Island, visit:
© Brice Marquis Sebie
piment, macatia, gâteau patate, https://en.reunion.fr/
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6 Viewpoint TravelBiz Monitor February, 2022
n
Editor-in-Chief & CEO
Sheldon Santwan
Assistant Editor
GIVE THE MAHARAJA A BREAK
I t’s time for a fresh start since in present times nostalgia might
Prasenjit Chakraborty
prasenjit.chakraborty@saffronsynergies.in
+91 9819263364
survive in only just one place - the past.
Editorial Team
There is an expected sense of excitement at the much vaunted
Mumbai and awaited change in the ownership and consequent management
Chief Sub-Editor: Disha Shah Ghosh in Air India.
disha.shah@saffronsynergies.in
There is barely a word yet from its new owners on any meaty or
Sr.Reporter: Asmita Mukherjee
asmita.mukherjee@saffronsynergies.in tectonic shifts from how the company operated so far. Legions of pundits are rushing forth with I-told-
Contributors you-so’s, homilies and advice. Let’s also add our two-bit to the mix.
Hugh & Colleen Gantzer, Anurag Yadav, The sudden revival of interest in the Maharaja logo is a case in point. Experts aver that it’s a myth to
Hector D’souza & Amala Dantas
believe that customers are brand agnostic. The old logo, we are told, has history and strength on its side.
Marketing Team
Mumbai
There have been suggestions the Air India brand can be revived in public consciousness by establishing
Head - Sales & Marketing a reconnect with nostalgia garnished with more efficient deliveries. There is also an idea doing the rounds
Ajay Wadode
+91 8087127814 that Tatas can strike an emotional bond with the market if the brand is shown to progressing towards its
ajay.wadode@saffronsynergies.in
old glory. Indeed, the Maharaja logo does connect, but possibly more so with a much older clientele.
Goa
Head - Goa
It’s a very young world out there. A corpulent moustachioed and turbaned mascot might not be the
Harshad R. Bhonsle genie from the magic lamp at this hour to grant any wish. The smartness of the first public contact will
+91 8999047490
harshadrbhonsle@gmail.com go much further than nostalgic trips of clever advertising. True, there is a historical connect between the
Coordination, Subscription & Database
airline, its logo and its owners but the jury is out on whether it will reverberate with a modern clientele.
Gauri Sawant: +91 8369080796 There is a steady opinion that ‘the comfort appeal of brands that belonged to a bygone rose-tinted
gauri.sawant@saffronsynergies.in
age could work’ and that the new owners could build upon that brand essence through a contemporary
filter. Perhaps a survey that nails public opinion could better determine the strategy than sepia-tinted
reminiscences of old hands.
*Responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act Given the surprises Tatas can spring up, who knows all these surveys are already done and dusted
and decisions are firmed up? Perhaps a new brand, totally disconnected from the past, is already well
on its way.
Anurag Yadav
Industry Expert
Sterling House, 5/7 Sorabji Santuk Lane,
Opp.Dr.Cawasji Hormasji Street, Dhobi Talao, Marine Lines (E), Anurag Yadav is a travel author and columnist, writing on hospitality and design. An avid traveller,
Mumbai 400 002 he has published five books and divides his time equally between Delhi and London.
Tel: 91-22-6101 1700 / 701 Fax: 91-22-6712 1854
The views expressed in the column are of the author, and may or may not be endorsed by the publication.
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Paramjit Bawa Carl Dantas Rakshit Desai Rajiv Duggal Manoj Gursahani T C Guruprasad Zubin Karkaria Dev Karvat
Country Manager - India, Chairman Emeritus Managing Director Director President Managing Director & CEO CEO
Destination New South Wales ETAA India, Flight Centre Travel Group Travel Specialists LLP Visit USA Committee Board Member, EbixCash VFS Global Group Karvat Group
Jehangir Katgara Kapil Kaul Mark Mendes Iqbal Mulla E M Najeeb Ankush Nijhawan Ajay Prakash Sriram Rajmohan
CMD CEO - India & Middle East, Industry Consultant Chairman, Treasure Tourism Chairman MD, Nijhawan Group & Chief Executive, Nomad CEO & MD
Trail Blazer Tours India Pvt Ltd CAPA Corporation Ltd ATE Group of Companies Co-Founder, TBO Group Travels & President - IIPT India Club7 Holidays Ltd.
Naresh Rawal Dhananjay Saliankar Arjun Sharma Vasudha Sondhi Sheema Vohra Kiran Yadav
VP - Sales & Marketing Head - Sales & Marketing, Chairman, Le Passage to India Managing Director Managing Director VP
Genting Cruise Lines Fortune Hotels & MD Select Group OMPL Group Sartha Global Marketing IIPT India
www.travelbizmonitor.com
For news updates and more information
log on to www.travelbizmonitor.com daily TravelBiz Monitor February, 2022
n news round up 7
Parliamentary Committee suggests reviewing tax
regime to increase India’s share in global tourism
TBM Staff | Mumbai recast its website in a more user-friendly that deter inbound tourism and have led to
manner. tourist packages being out priced vis-a-vis
A Parliamentary Standing Committee
has recommended that the tax regime
applicable to the travel & tourism sector be
“The Ministry should formulate an
integrated marketing and promotional
strategy to position India as a favoured
those in competing tourist destinations of
other countries,” it said.
The committee further pointed out that
reviewed in order to increase the tax structure applicable
India’s share in the global to hotel accommodation, air
tourism market from the travel, food and beverages
present 1.24 per cent to five consumption, not only “leads
per cent. to tourist packages being
The Committee on over-priced but also obstructs
“Promotion of Indian Tourism seamless flow of tourists to
in Overseas Markets – Role of our historical sites.” It also
Overseas Tourist Offices and noted that despite inbound
Indian Embassies”, headed tourism being a major foreign
by MP T G Venkatesh, said exchange earner with foreign
the Ministry should conduct exchange earnings of INR
surveys periodically in 2,11,661 crore in 2019, the
important source markets for taxes levied on inbound
India to assess the impact of tourism are among the highest
the publicity campaigns on the decision of tourism destination in the tourism generating in the country.
foreign tourists to visit India, the perception markets overseas and increase India’s share “The committee, therefore, recommends
of the foreign tourists about the various of the global tourism market from the present that the tax regime applicable to the travel
facilities at tourist destinations, the preference 1.24 per cent to 5 per cent in the years to and tourism sector be reviewed holistically
of foreign tourists about the tourism products come.” so that with suitable amendments India can
and destinations. “One of the major reasons for India’s inbound convert its comparative natural and economic
The committee in its report tabled in tourism remaining grossly under-utilised has advantages into competitive advantages for
Parliament on proposed that the Ministry been the high rates and multiplicity of taxes the tourism sector,” it said.
Covid booster dose mandatory for
entering France, the rule came into
effect from February 2
TBM Staff | Mumbai “compelling reason”. This could mean
a dying relative, for example, but not for
A ccording to international media
reports, France will not allow
tourists to enter the country if they
holidays.
Eurostar services have already warned
customers, announcing, “If you had
ICC appoints Gainwell
received their Covid vaccine more than your full vaccine course nine months Sports as hospitality agent
nine months ago. However, travellers ago or more and you haven’t had a
COVID-19 vaccine for T20 WC Australia
booster, you must
follow the rules TBM Staff | Mumbai
for unvaccinated
passengers to enter
France.” Simon
Calder an eminent
G ainwell Sports, part of Kolkata-based Gainwell
Travel, has been appointed as the hospitality
agent for ICC T20 Cricket World Cup Australia 2022
freelance UK travel with access to premium VIP match tickets for all
journalist and matches, including India vs Pakistan on October 23
broadcaster also at Melbourne Cricket Ground. As official hospitality
criticised the move. agent, Gainwell Sports will offer food-and-drink-
France’s new rule inclusive Match tickets packages at face value with
came into effect commissions to travel agents.
from February 2. Gainwell Sports is a growing sports travel company
However, there is with official Match tickets, inclusive of packages
without a recent Covid vaccine can no official confirmation from the France for the world’s biggest sports events, promoted by
only enter France if they have a government yet. Gainwell Travel.
www.travelbizmonitor.com
8 Perspective TravelBiz Monitor February, 2022
n
When was the last time you gazed at the sky?
By Dr Nimit Chowdhary, Professor of Tourism,
Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Jamia Millia Islamia
Y
es. When was the last time you popular entertainment after dark, often attraction- while access to attractions is
spent some time gazing at the lasting until the wee hours of the following available during daytime, say 8.00 am to
sky? Remember those childhood day. It includes opportunities for extravaganza 8.00 pm can be extended for visitors until
days when we slept on roofs, for visitors during nights with nightclubs, late in the night. Two, the night view of the
played and watched stars twinkle for hours. concerts, theatres, cinemas, parties, pubs same heritage asset would render an entirely
The natural night sky is our shared universal and bars. It is often a factor for many visitors different experience at night. Therefore, they
heritage. Unfortunately, however, our new while choosing a destination. This nocturnal may be offered as an altogether different
generations have remained obfuscated from social carousing turned flamboyant with the product. For example, visiting the Taj Mahal
it. Darkness is being viewed with scepticism advent of artificial lighting, more so, the at night, especially full moon night, would
and fear. For many years we have dispelled domestic and outdoor lighting adding to the be much different from visiting it during
darkness with artificial light. Though there sculptural and chromatic value of a place’s the daytime. The Palace Museum in Beijing
is little evidence that increased lighting landscape. Undeniably, nightlife contributes offers a lantern festival light show late
reduces total crime, bad outdoor lighting can to the development of culture and socio- evening. Many forts and palaces in India
decrease safety through easier exposure. political movements and is thus an integral also offer late evening light and sound shows.
We are all familiar with the concept of constituent of a place’s personality. Rajasthan started talking about night tourism
nightlife, a collective term for available Night as a resource manifests in two a few years back, extending access to Amber
products- urban nightlife and the dark fort until late in the evening. In Rajasthan,
night sky. Unfortunately, while nightlife for example, while the days are extremely
has for quite some time attracted tourism warm during the summer, the evenings are
attention, the unsullied dark night sky has particularly cooler and pleasant due to sand
missed out. The nightscape is a precious and sandstone. Thus, by opening up at night,
natural resource for all life on Earth, which tourism can also be expanded to summers.
has inspired science, religion, philosophy, Many resorts in the Thar desert of
art, and literature since times immemorial. Rajasthan are now successfully offering
Our ancestors have immaculately gazed at night safaris coupled with traditional
stars to make sense of times, climate, and entertainment culminating with stargazing.
terrestrial movements and even navigate A typical evening after a hot, bright day
the globe. may begin with a camel ride to sunset
Night sky and terrestrial dynamics have points on the vast serene dunes of the Thar
been essential elements of most religions and as the breeze turns chiller. Then, visitors
their cultural manifestations. In addition, return to an eco-friendly, makeshift seating
they have often been subjects of literary arrangement. The traditional music and
expressions- all to remind us of the vital role folk performances entertain them, and the
they play in our lives to which we have gotten traditional cuisines are served under the
detached in our mundane modern lives. In star-speckled night sky, which adds tints to
most spiritual traditions, night skies have the multi-coloured evening on harsh and dry
had an important place. As transformational land. Finally, guests retire to makeshift tents
tourism gains currency, gazing night sky gazing at stars until they fall asleep. This
allows an intimate connection with the nocturnal tourism is also becoming popular
world. Unsullied night sky cultivates non- in Gujrat, Punjab and Haryana.
conceptual awareness when looking at Several unconventional dark night
Dr Nimit Chowdhary is a Professor at nature. The nocturnal landscape thus has a tourism products have potential. For example,
spiritual connotation. stargazing, observing, astrophotography,
Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. He
Locale within the context of the landscape storytelling, night river cruises, dune night
has more than 28 years of academic
is a trigger for visitor interest. Often a lot of surfing, and other nocturnal activities
experience, of which he has been a full community folklore is weaved around the can augment visitors’ spiritual, rural,
professor for 15 years in India, China, terrestrial constellation formation. The troika and eco-tourism experiences. Moreover,
and Mexico. In addition, he was a visiting of the sky, people and place always provided venturing out at night is rising, particularly
faculty at Gotland University (Sweden), a premise for harvesting and production and, among millennials. Therefore, offsetting
the University of Girona (Spain), IIM over time, has become the tradition. This is apprehension associated with darkness and
Sirmaur, IIQM, and EDII. He is a recipient a cultural manifestation of the nocturnal liveliness of night can contribute to reviving
of many academic awards and recognitions landscape. tourism post-COVID-19.
who has authored 13 books and more than Another way of looking at night tourism “No sight is more provocative of awe
is presenting and making available than is the night sky.”
150 academic papers. He has travelled
conventional daytime heritage products ‘The views expressed in the column are of the
extensively to around 40 countries and
at night. There are two ways of looking author, and may or may not be endorsed by the
almost all states.
at it. One this enhances the supply of the publication.’
www.travelbizmonitor.com
TravelBiz Monitor February, 2022
n IN CONVERSATION 9
of each of these brands. year. Access to some of the coolest
We have always focused on travel experiences available in
building the foundation stronger the market. During their travels,
rather than chasing expansion our guests experience a seamless
at record speed. Over these paper free experience with a
years we have established our digital itinerary.
name in the luxury travel space To say customers have become
to be accredited as preferred more demanding may not be a
partners for more than 15+ global correct approach I feel. Everyone
hospitality brands like Four has been confined and restricted
Season, Marriott, Rosewood, from travelling. Hence, when they
Aman, Shangri La, TravellerMade, get a chance to get out they want
to name a few. We have also won it to be more meaningful, more
some prestigious awards such experience driven. Our designers
as best marketing campaign at work endlessly to create their
Luxperience in Australia to being wishes into a reality as long as the
best honeymoon travel brand demands are reasonable.
for last two consecutive years as
awarded by WeddingSutra.
Q You feel that it is high time
for ATD Journeys to scale
Q Incustomers,
terms of servicing your
what are the
up. What is your roadmap for
this?
Over the years we have worked
‘A successful luxury travel brand is all hard to build the foundation and
set the brands up. Scaling up a
about managing the guests expectations’
luxury travel service business
is not an easy task. We have our
work cut out to try and fill this
space. Technology will play a big
‘‘
It may not be right to Q How is the luxury travel
segment evolving especially Q
say that customers after the pandemic? It’s about hearing them out, learning
The luxury travel segment has
have become been leading the recovery in the about their personalities and being
more demanding. travel industry ever since the
able to custom design something that
rules were relaxed in 2020. With
Everyone has no commercial flights, people suits their profile. We play the role of
been confined and retreated to private jets. Instead
a travel atelier for our guests. Through
of taking a few rooms, we saw
restricted from buyouts of smaller properties and our global exposure we bring in some
travelling. Hence, private luxury villas. Long stays
became a norm for many. The prominent travel trends year on year.
‘‘
when they get a longingness to travel and not take
it for granted made the chase for
chance to get out unique experiences even more in
they want it to be demand. As things settle down innovations you brought in? role in this and it’s something
(hopefully!) we expect some of Do you think customers have we are working on. We had some
more meaningful, these trends to continue in the become more demanding now? interesting plans in place for
more experience future. We are definitely seeing When someone asks me expansion even pre-covid. We
a trend for bucket list trips where what business are you into? I feel it’s time now to execute those
driven, says Pritish guests are not shying away from always highlight that we are ideas.
Shah, Founder spending big money. in the business of “managing
Q company two years down
expectations”. Over the years How do you visualise your
& CEO, ATD
Q You have said that ATD
Journeys have achieved
we have come to realize that a
successful luxury travel brand is the lane?
Journeys Pvt Ltd, many milestones since you all about managing the guests We like the Apple business model.
in a conversation started your journey in 2013. expectations. It’s about hearing Expensive ticket items and yet
Could you elaborate? them out, learning about their they have achieved the volume.
with Prasenjit We started ATD in 2013 in Calcutta personalities and being able All our designer journeys are a
Chakraborty. and then moved our HO to Mumbai to custom design something high ticket spend. With our focus
in 2017. From a singular travel that suits their profile. We play on volume from here on we truly
brand we have now expanded the role of a travel atelier for aim to become a global luxury
to three luxury brands focusing our guests. Through our global and lifestyle brand in the years
on different verticals. We have exposure we bring in some to come.
specialists on boarding taking care prominent travel trends year on prasenjit.chakraborty@saffronsynergies.in
www.travelbizmonitor.com
10 Travel Monitor TravelBiz Monitor February, 2022 n
IATA’s Overview of Air Transport in 2021
The year RPKs recovered to 42% of 2019 levels in 2021
Air cargo remained strong (up 7% vs. 2019)
gone by
RPKs & CTKs, % ch. vs. the same month in 2019 Full year 2021 vs.
saw slow 20% Global CTKs
full year 2019:
6.9%
resumption of 0%
international -20%
Domestic RPKs
-28.2%
travel with -40%
Total RPKs
-58.4%
Asia Pacific -60% -75.5%
lagging -80%
International RPKs
behind all -100%
May-20
Aug-20
Nov-20
May-21
Feb-20
Oct-20
Dec-20
Feb-21
Oct-21
Aug-21
Nov-21
Dec-21
Jan-20
Apr-20
Jun-20
Jul-20
Sep-20
Jan-21
Apr-21
Jun-21
Jul-21
Sep-21
Mar-20
Mar-21
regions
2 Source: IATA Monthly Statistics 25 January 2022
with travel
restrictions Performance of domestic markets varied
Russia the strongest, China impacted by zero-COVID policy
in place.
However, 60%
Domestic RPKs, % change vs. the same month in 2019
Full year 2021 vs.
Australia Brazil China Russia US full year 2019:
there have 40%
24.2%
20%
been no clear 0% -27.2%
indications of -20% -23.8%
links between -40% -24.4%
-60% -62.4%
travel -80%
restrictions -100%
Apr-20
Apr-21
Jan-20
Feb-20
Mar-20
Jun-20
Jul-20
Sep-20
Oct-20
Dec-20
Jan-21
Feb-21
Mar-21
Jun-21
Jul-21
Sep-21
Oct-21
Dec-21
May-20
Aug-20
Nov-20
May-21
Aug-21
Nov-21
and new
cases. 3 Source: IATA Monthly Statistics 25 January 2022
TravelBiz Recovery in international travel was slow
Monitor Asia Pacific lagged the rest of the industry due to closed borders
presents the 20%
International RPKs, % change versus the same month in 2019
International 0%
Air Transport -20% Africa Asia Pacific Europe Full year 2021 vs.
full year 2019:
Latin America Middle East North America
Association’s -40% -65%
(IATA) global -60%
-72%
overview of -80%
-93%
2021. -100%
Apr-20
Jan-20
Feb-20
Mar-20
Jun-20
Jul-20
Sep-20
Oct-20
Dec-20
Jan-21
Mar-21
Apr-21
Feb-21
Jun-21
Jul-21
Sep-21
Oct-21
Dec-21
May-20
Aug-20
Nov-20
May-21
Aug-21
Nov-21
4 Source: IATA Monthly Statistics 25 January 2022
www.travelbizmonitor.comTravelBiz Monitor February, 2022 n Travel Monitor 11
Premium and economy international RPKs
recovering at the same rate
Premium and economy class international RPKs, % of 2019 levels
Int’l RPKs, % of the same month in 2019
45%
40%
Premium class Economy class
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
Jan-21 Feb-21 Mar-21 Apr-21 May-21 Jun-21 Jul-21 Aug-21 Sep-21 Oct-21 Nov-21
But willingness to travel remains strong
5 Source: IATA Monthly Statistics 25 January 2022
Ticket sales rebounded in South Africa after Omicron restrictions eased
0%
Total bookings, % ch in 7-day MA versus 2019 South Africa New COVID cases per million, 7-day MA
500
-10% 450
New COVID cases Bookings
-20% 400
-30% 350
-40% 300
-50% 250
-60% 200
-70% 150
-80% 100
-90% 50
-100% 0
15-Nov
17-Nov
19-Nov
21-Nov
23-Nov
25-Nov
27-Nov
29-Nov
1-Dec
3-Dec
5-Dec
7-Dec
9-Dec
11-Dec
13-Dec
15-Dec
17-Dec
19-Dec
21-Dec
23-Dec
25-Dec
27-Dec
29-Dec
31-Dec
2-Jan
4-Jan
6-Jan
8-Jan
10-Jan
12-Jan
14-Jan
16-Jan
Bookings date
6 Source: IATA DDS, Our World In Data 25 January 2022
No clear link between new cases and travel restrictions
Restrictions often maintained after cases have fallen
Travel restrictions, weighted average of regions New COVID cases, 000s 7-day MA
4 - total Peak at 2,200
border closure4 1000
900
3 - closed to 800
some regions 3
700
Global travel restrictions 600
2 - quarantine (LHS)
arrivals from2 500
high risk regions
400
Global new COVID cases 300
1 - screening
1
(RHS) 200
100
0
0 - no measures 0
Apr-20
Aug-20
Apr-21
Aug-21
Jan-20
Feb-20
Mar-20
Jul-20
Sep-20
Feb-21
Jul-21
Sep-21
May-20
Oct-20
Dec-20
Jan-21
Mar-21
May-21
Oct-21
Dec-21
Jun-20
Nov-20
Jun-21
Nov-21
7 Source: IATA Economics using data from ECDC, Oxford University 25 January 2022
www.travelbizmonitor.com12 In Focus TravelBiz Monitor n February, 2022
Union Budget 2022-23
Completely Off Target The Union Budget 2022 is a complete lacklustre one for the travel
and tourism industry. Except the extension of ECLGS for MSMEs until
2023, the Budget is virtually silent for the travel & tourism industry.
The Economic Survey which was released just one day before the
Budget admitted that the travel, tourism and hospitality sector still had
a long road to recovery. Naturally, the players of the industry hoped that
there will be some tangible direct relief in the Budget. But that hasn’t
happen and the Government remains ambivalent. Hence,
the stakeholders of the industry reacted sharply.
Ajay Prakash, President, TAFI states for hotels and travel-tour operators. We were also expecting
We live in hope and die in despair! After to the least that travel and tourism be brought under the concurrent
the Union Tourism Minister reported that list for industry status.
the industry lost 21.5 million jobs in the
first 3 quarters of 2020, after the Economic Aashish Gupta, Consulting CEO, FAITH
Survey admitted that the travel, tourism It’s a missed opportunity. The Union
and hospitality sector still had a long road Budget provides some relief and medium
to recovery, one had hoped that at least after to long term infrastructure measures
the tribulations of the last 22 months there to stressed tourism travel & hospitality
would be some tangible direct relief, but industry, but there was an immediate
that hasn’t happened.Our demand for infrastructure status has fallen opportunity for more direct intervention
on deaf years. MoT has an ambitious plan and an audacious vision to support the highly stressed tourism
for India@2047. But who will service those anticipated numbers of travel and hospitality companies and their
tourists if tourism businesses are driven out of business? employees.
Rajiv Mehra, President, IATO Madhavan Menon, MD, Thomas Cook
Most disappointingly none of our concerns (India) Limited
found mention in the Budget presented. Just The Union Budget has been disappointing.
few years ago we were earning huge foreign The Budget made no reference to the
exchange for the government and in this hour industry’s recommendations to aid revival,
of despair we expected some handholding including rationalization of taxes (a
by the government. An extension of the loan complete GST holiday, exemption of TCS
under ECLGS has been announced, but it on outbound tours, reduction in indirect
is of no use for the inbound tour operators taxes), removal of SIES benefit capping
as they are not able to pay EMIs of the loan of INR 5 crore. For a sector that is a key
they have already taken. contributor to the GDP and brings in valuable foreign exchange,
a stimulus would have created significant value in supporting the
Jyoti Mayal, President, TAAI country’s road to recovery and growth.
Our trade has been ignored once again.
We suffered tremendously due to the Aditya Chamaria, MD, Damodar
pandemic and it was expected that the Ropeways & Infra Limited
government would at least work towards The Budget’s focus on improving
positive upliftment of the travel & tourism connectivity, especially through
in India, which they always portray as sustainable modes of transport such as
a priority? In our representations to the ropeways, will take India on a path of
Finance Minister we had requested for growth, help in increasing tourism and lead
GST input credits be made available across to innovation in the cable car industry.
www.travelbizmonitor.comTravelBiz Monitor February, 2022
n In Focus 13
Vishal Suri, Managing Director, Dhruv Shringi, Co-Founder and CEO,
SOTC Travel Yatra.com
The two noteworthy announcements of We are grateful that the government has
issuance of e-passports and the expansion taken relevant measures to revive the
of the ECLGS scheme for the hospitality travel and hospitality industry as it is one
sector will help boost the travel and tourism of the major contributors to the growth of
industry. However, this Union Budget our economy. The extension of ECLGS
did not provide the industry the respite services, as well as an increased cover for
we anticipated. We hoped this Budget the hospitality sector, will definitely bring
would offer incentives to Corporates for in the much-required relief. Yatra.com
organising meetings and conference in India through partial or full remains optimistic that the industry will continue to see buoyant
tax exemptions. growth driving overall economic growth in the country.
Rahi Vaghani, Managing Director, Zubin Saxena, Managing Director and
Monteria Resort Pvt. Ltd Vice President Operations, South Asia –
We are welcoming the initiatives Radisson Hotel Group
announced in the new fiscal Budget. We welcome the Union Budget and the
The 400 new Vande Bharat trains and allocation of strategic aid that will enable
ropeway projects signify the government’s the speedy recovery of the hospitality
commitment towards bettering our tourism sector. The extension of the ECLGS with an
infrastructure. The extension of the ECLG increased cover of INR 5 lakh crores for the
scheme till 2023 with an additional corpus hospitality sector is a positive move. With
of INR 50,000 crore dedicated to hospitality domestic travel picking pace, we believe
and related sectors should provide relief to most establishments that the government’s highway expansion plans will facilitate
especially the smaller ones. accessibility and strengthen this demand further.
Jurgen Bailom, CEO and President, Ronojoy Dutta, Whole Time Director and
Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd CEO, IndiGo
While the travel and tourism industry has We welcome the new incentives of issuing
suffered significantly through the pandemic, of E-passport and introduction of digital
it has also received an encouraging boost in currency. The government’s relentless focus
the form of domestic travel. This momentum on national transportation infrastructure
must be retained. Indians are travelling in development with the PM Gatti Shakti
India and choosing local destinations. We plan will strengthen the much-needed
hope there are mindful considerations in multimodal connectivity. Having said
place for the industry overall and especially that, we were expecting tax concession to
cruising: which is a fairly new and unique offering in the subcontinent. the aviation industry with cut on ATF excise duty and allocation
With a coastline as vast as glorious India’s, cruising could grow by of concessional finance to airlines to help us come out of the
leaps and bounds and this dream will be a reality once the government pandemic.
further supports its gargantuan potential.
Rikant Pittie, Co-founder- EaseMyTrip
Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint MD, BLS International travel has been severely
International impacted by the pandemic, which is why
We would like to applaud the government we are pleased with the introduction of
for this progressive announcement today e-passports with embedded chips. This
about the introduction of e-Passports using will provide a big boost to travel and add
embedded chip to be rolled out in 2022-23. a level of convenience for international
A well thought initiative like this will help travelers. Additionally, the expansion of the
to boost the overall travel industry and also Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme
ease out the process for overseas travel and by Rs 50,000 crore to Rs 5 Lakh crore will
augment global mobility. enable the small travel operators and stakeholders within the travel
and tourism industry to reel back from the disruptive impact of the
Daniel D’souza, President & Country pandemic.
Head, SOTC Travel
While we are certain that the modern infra Aloke Bajpai, Group CEO & Co-founder, ixigo
developments of roads, railways, airports, International travel is likely to recover
ports, waterways, and the national ropeway soon despite the progress being slowed
project mentioned under the Prime by the current variant. The introduction
Minister’s PM Gati Shakti plan will be the of innovative initiatives like e-passports
key drivers of domestic tourism economy, will boost security and will enhance the
the industry would have benefitted if the convenience of international travelers by
government extended more direct and cutting down long queues at immigration
immediate support to the sector. We had requested the government counters. This will help support a faster
for respite which were unfortunately not addressed and would have revival of international travel in a
aided to the revival of the industry. pandemic-driven environment.
www.travelbizmonitor.com14 Sustainability TravelBiz Monitor February, 2022
n
Busy Year Ahead
By Ansoo Gupta, Founder, OneShoe Trust
T
he first month of this year has been imperative that the 5 proposed missions can
a mixed bag of emotions for Indian percolate down to the smallest businesses.
travel & tourism industry. As the 1.National Green Tourism Mission to
government was announcing the mainstream sustainability in the tourism
new draft policy and incentives to boost sector. The aims of this mission include
the sector, the wild spread of Omicron reducing water consumption and waste
was curtailing the new year holiday travel generation; ensuring efficient energy
plans yet again bringing the businesses to a utilisation; roping in regional bodies for
pause once more. However, the future looks implementing tourism projects and thereby
promising. As the world heads towards enhancing the incomes of local people as
better management of Covid-19 and its many classification of tourist destinations into well as their living standards.
variants, the travel & tourism will restart categories, special tourism zones and This focus on ‘local people’ as opposed to
with due checks and balances in place and creation of five missions are among the tourist can be the real 2game changer
recovery will be rapid. All we must do is be provisions stipulated in the draft of the here.
correctly prepared for it. new national policy to ensure sustainable, 2.National Digital Tourism Mission to
A mobile app for E-tourist visa, direct air- responsible, and inclusive development of digitalize the sector seeks to empower
connectivity with major overseas markets, tourism. All this and more is being done stakeholders in the tourism sector in
with a goal of making India a top global utilising digital technologies. As I said
destination by 2030. This is a lofty target before, integrating modern technology is
but is definitely achievable if we all work critical for every business to be able to scale
towards a well-crafted plan. up and to ensure better customer experience
At a macro level, the sector has already while running a cost-efficient operation.
put forth its suggestions for sops and tax 3.Tourism and Hospitality sector skill
breaks such as IT deductions on domestic mission : Given the high employability of
travel and tourism spends, allowing for LTA the sector, this Mission on skill development
exemption every year etc. to be granted for is to ensure that India has the best trained
sector revival. And while the government and qualified manpower to maintain high
figures out its way around it, at a micro standards of service
level, at our own operations level, two 4.National Mission on Destination
elements need careful consideration. As Management Organisations : to focus on
always, after a recession, comes a steep ensuring synergy and coordination among
period of rapid growth and to make full public and private stakeholders. According
use of that, it will be worthwhile for every to the Central Govt, new tourism destinations
travel business, big or small, wherever have to be identified and both government
they are in the value chain, to diligently agencies as well as private entrepreneurs
look into (1) Scaling Up with Technology have to be involved in the process.
:Is your operation taking full advantage of 5.National Mission on Tourism MSMEs to
modern technologies available in all parts support and facilitate the start-ups, micro,
of your business (2) A keen eye towards small and medium enterprises
environment protection : Not only are As we move forward, it will be crucial
more and more consumers gravitating to see how we are progressing on each.
towards greener choices and even willing We can speed up achieving our targets
Ansoo Gupta is founder of
to pay a little extra for zero-waste holiday by managing the overlaps between the
OneShoe Trust which is a , conservation programmes etc, this is missions : for example MSME mission and
global advocacy platform for imperative for us if we want to sustain our Green Tourism Mission can achieve great
Responsible & Mindful Travels. destinations for a long time. Think of it as results faster when working in synergy.
an AMC we should pay for the destinations. I am personally very excited about all
Gupta a Science graduate in
Just as a factory owner takes care of their these five missions and would like only one
Physics and Mathematics with machine’s wear and tear for long-term more to be added significantly: educating
a post graduate in business gains, similarly we should do too. travellers on how to travel more responsibly.
management and a certification Government’s new draft policy seems to By following these through we are in a good
have its heart in the right place and eyes position to really catapult Indian travel and
in Data Science & Machine
fixed on the right target. However, like all tourism into a new orbit.
Learning from HarvardX. plans, the key to success is its execution.
What will be crucial is to set the right ‘The views expressed in the column are of the
targets which are measurable and that all author, and may or may not be endorsed by the
stakeholders can directly contribute to. It is publication.’
www.travelbizmonitor.comTravelBiz Monitor February, 2022
n Spotlight 15
UK Virtually with VisitBritain
TBM Staff | Mumbai
W
ith the travel restrictions in place
until January 2022, VisitBritain
in association with TravelBiz
Monitor, organised a Virtual
FAM for the Indian Travel-Trade bringing the
destination virtually closer than ever before.
London is the most saleable and the highest
visited city in the UK for Indians. With its rich
culture, history, heritage and love for sports,
India and UK have a lot in common, making
attractions such as the ‘Historic Royal Palaces’
and ‘Merlin Entertainment’ some of the most
popular activities for Indians. Keeping that
in mind, VisitBritain partnered with both
these attractions giving the Indian trade a
virtual look and feel of Tower of London and
Warwick Castle.
The VisitBritain team of Mr. Shuja Mehdi, Warwick Castle
B2B Manager and Ms. Tishtar Parakh,
Travel Trade Executive, welcomed the trade Crown Jewels collection, part of the Royal Kensington Palace, K Hillsborough Castle and
in joining the programme, while Ms. Ann Collection, are the most powerful symbols of Gardens representing thousand years of history
Wilson, Head of Sales joined by her teammates the British Monarchy and holds deep religious and Britain’s tumultuous past.
Ms. Marie-Charles Houston, Sales Manager and Moving on to the second leg of the virtual
Mr. Matthew Coulter, Sales Executive led the Fam was where Mr. Gaurav Seth, Head of
first leg of the session, showcasing the Tower of Sales, India for Merlin Entertainment gave the
London and its hidden gems. trade a taste of the Warwick Castle & Knight’s
The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Village, showcasing the global presence of
Heritage site which was beautifully showcased Merlin group and an insight to its presence all
in a 20 minute video, giving the trade a peak over the UK.
into not only the main tower, but also a tour of Warwick Castle is conveniently located at a
the secret areas that are not open to general two-hour drive from the City of London, with
public. In addition to that, a painting of Jesus options for self-drive, coach tours and train
Christ, along with caricatures of Mother visits. Warwick Castle & Knight’s Village is a
Mary which was discovered in 1953, during more engaging option for guests. It enjoys 1,100
restoration was also something that the trade years of history, 64 acres of epic grounds, shows
got an opportunity to enjoy. Another such area and cultural significance in UK’s history. The and Entertainment, one of the Britain’s finest
is the room with the oldest bell that is rung Historic Royal Palaces termed as ‘Place to medieval fortress, palaces to eat and sleep. The
even today - every night, which has witnessed Sit and Be Stirred’ include Tower of London, Warwick Castle has the largest collection of
the execution of 75 noble men in the past. The Hampton Court Palace, Banqueting House, armoury in the UK in its Great Hall.
Its Time Tower offers a 10-mintue immersive
multimedia experience capturing the unknown
stories of Warwick Castle’s rich and vibrant
history. There are two F&B options inside the
Castle. At the Conservatory Tea House one can
indulge in an afternoon tea, while enjoying the
stunning surroundings of the Peacock Garden;
as well as a varied list of food options for
vegetarian guests as well. Entertainment shows
like the Falconer’s Quest, which will be part of
ticket cost, twice a day. Other shows include
the Bowman Show, War of the Horses and The
Castle Dungeon, located between first and
second tower, a 15-minute activity, showcasing
the darker side of the city and location.
The session ended with a Q&A segment
where the trade got the chance to interact with
the tourism board and the two partners which
Tower of London
proved to be very fruitful.
www.travelbizmonitor.com16 Spotlight TravelBiz Monitor February, 2022
n
Beach. According to Bandara, “Banquets will
drive 6% of overall F&B revenue during the
year. Compared to 16% in the previous year,
this is low. However, overall F&B revenue has
increased in the budget and banquets alone by
69%. Local and destination weddings will be the
main area of focus during the year. Staycations
certainly play a role in inspiring other local
guests to want to stay with us and have the
same experience.”
Couples and families form their biggest
chunk of customer segments. Apart from this,
the property also receives a lot of travellers
from Europe. “We have guests who travel all
the way from Russia, UK and Germany to visit
us. Our main markets in December were Sri
Lanka – 55%, Russia – 11%, UK – 7%, India –
6%, currently in January it’s the CIS Markets
(Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan) that are having
Cinnamon Bentota Beach
the bulk of the bookings,” revealed Bandara.
It is important to mention here that Cinnamon
Bentota Beach is very popular among Indian
travellers. The reason behind this, according to
targeting Indian weddings
Bandara, is its rich culture and history that is
displayed almost at every turn, which presents
them with more than just a typical hotel stays.
“Our Indian guests look for the beach, water
sports, Indian cuisine and luxury rooms. It can
The rich culture and history that is displayed almost at every turn, makes the also be the experiences we offer to guests,” said
Bandara. Experiences at the property include
property more than just a typical hotel stay and becoming increasingly popular
fun activities for children including water
among Indian travellers, writes Prasenjit Chakraborty. sports, curated excursions and specialised
C
destination dining that feature authentic Sri
innamon Bentota Beach, the five- of the most influential Asian architects Lankan cuisine. “Guests are spoiled
star resort in Sri Lanka spread over of his generation, the hotel offers a for choice with six specialised
an area of 11 acres of land across rich cultural value, a repository restaurants, the highlight being,
Bentota Beach enjoys a unique of art, and lavish gardens. Nossa, an all-day dining
location, boasting vistas of the Indian Ocean and As it is known that the restaurant which depicts a
the Bentara River. The property has 159 rooms pandemic has thrown hawker street, with different
with traditional design elements unique to the spanner in the work and due types of cuisine,” he said.
destination combined with luxury amenities. to this every hotel and resort Additionally, the seafood
Each room offers its own view of the ocean or globally has to redefine their restaurant, Sea-Meats-Spice,
vast gardens, and is enhanced by the hotel’s strategy to ensure minimum and Asian restaurant, Zest,
signature experiences and services, including a revenue loses. When asked to specialising in Sri Lankan, Indian
personal lifestylist for the Suites. comment, with much lesser number and Chinese cuisines, pay tribute
Cinnamon Bentota Beach is a luxury, of business events due to Dilan Bandara to dishes from this part of the
GM, Cinnamon Bentota Beach
upscale beach resort that creates bespoke the pandemic, how are you world. “Meanwhile, Ottimo
experiences for the modern traveller. Set in the compensating the decline in MICE revenue? serves a variety of pizzas and pasta together
natural beauty between the Bentara River and Dilan Bandara, GM, Cinnamon Bentota Beach, with premium cuts of steak and features a choice
Bentota Beach, it is the master of detail, from replied that they will focus on promoting the of Italian wines among many other unique
its contemporary architecture and design to its property for weddings. “But now with tourism culinary offerings. Traditional local experiences
artful cuisine. Designed by Geoffrey Bawa, one picking up in Sri Lanka, we will continue to are introduced at an in-house Artisan Village
focus on this property being a first-choice offering an array of activities such as mask
meeting venue for visiting business tourists. We carving, puppetry, coconut leaf art, drumming
are still getting a share of local MICE events and Beeralu lessons; all traditional handicrafts
and we have a few locked in for February as that are found in this region,” explained
well, however international MICE programmes Bandara.
are getting postponed. And biggest demand we What about various guidelines that an Indian
are seeing so far with international MICE is for tourist needs to keep in mind while visiting
Indian Weddings at Bentota,” he pointed out. Sri Lanka and Cinnamon Bentota Beach?
As far as attracting guests is concerned, the “Apart from the general COVID19 health and
property is focusing on potential wedding parties safety guidelines, we just ask our guests to be
to select them as their wedding venue. Besides respectful of the art and history that make this
this, they are also targeting travel influencers, hotel unique,” concluded Bandara.
bloggers to experience Cinnamon Bentota prasenjit.chakraborty@saffronsynergies.in
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