ENTERING THE EIGHTH WITH A NEW LIGHT AND BRIGHTER VISION - VOL. 9, ISSUE. 1 - TravelScapes
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JANUARY 2021, PAGES 36, `100 VOL. 9, ISSUE. 1 ENTERING THE EIGHTH WITH A NEW LIGHT AND BRIGHTER VISION
CREATING & CURATING UNIQUE
TRAVEL STORIES FOR YOU!
Being your bespoke travel specialists, we,
at Travmasters, believe that vacations build
around individual preferences can turn into
experiences of a lifetime!
OUR PORTFOLIO INCLUDES:
• Ticketing-Domestic & International
• Holiday Packages-Domestic & International
• Aviation and Charter Services
• Wedding & Events
Email: reservations@travmasters.com, packages@travmasters.com
Connect with us: Phone: 9311959555, 011-45530385
w w w . t r a v m a s t e r s . c o m
TravelScapes
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Surpassing your expectations through
the journey of eight ecstatic years
Dear Readers,
Back in the days, people would ask whether the another challenging year, we have received some
evolution of digital media signalled ‘the end of heartfelt blessings from those who have helped us
print.’ But believing in my instincts and the value grow exponentially. We promise to carry forward
we deliver through our work, I would always answer our commitment to maintain strong relationships
no—the future of print will be extraordinary ideas with our stakeholders, tourism administrators
presented in ever-more extraordinary ways. No and keep the audiences engaged and inspired and
matter what, there will always be a niche need for keep them consistently ready for travelling as they
the physical copies of the magazines, as they are get the green light to confidently book their next
a boon when the wifi is patchy or high-priced – trip.
and they have an audience that appreciates them.
Therefore, standing true to our commitment Further, as we complete one of humanity’s worst
years on record, I sincerely wish our stories of hope Varun Malhotra
of providing the best in print, we are proudly
and determination inspire you in the New Year. I’d Publisher & CEO
completing our eight years of operations with
four awards to our name, several print issues also like to thank you, dear readers, for being part
circulating in PAN India and the annual gala of our 8-year journey. Cheers to the years ahead.
affair, our very own VETA that stands apart from This issue brings news and reports about trade,
any award show in the entire travel and tourism hospitality, aviation and the latest in tourism
industry. We are also proud of the impact that our worldwide.
content has created over these past eight years.
Together with the industry’s support and our
determination to get bigger and better each year,
we further wish to create a strong platform that We value your feedback and suggestions so please
will help the industry move dynamically forward. do write to us at varun@versatilemedia.in.
And as you all know that every year, our
anniversary celebrations are nothing without your
Happy reading!
precious wishes, so taking along all the love in yet
Editorial & Marketing Office: Versatile Media: 207,
PUBLISHER & CEO Varun Malhotra varun@versatilemedia.in Satya Mansion, Commercial Complex, Ranjeet Nagar,
DIRECTOR Pranav Khullar pranav@versatilemedia.in New Delhi-110008
Contact: 011 - 45530380/83 • varun@versatilemedia.in
All information in TravelScapes is derived from sources
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Gagneet Kaur we consider reliable. It is passed on to our readers
without any responsibility on our part. Opinions/views
expressed by third parties in abstract or interviews are
AGM SALES & MARKETING (MUMBAI) Aarti Rajkhewa not necessarily shared by us. Material appearing in the
CONSULTANT Anindya Malhotra, Jitin Mann magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part(s)
without prior permission. The publisher reserves the
ART DIRECTOR Rakesh Kumar right to refuse, withdraw or otherwise deal with all
advertisements without explanation. All advertisements
ACCOUNTS Chandan Kumar Jha, Swati Jauhari must comply with the Indian Advertisement Code. The
publisher will not be liable for any loss caused by any
ADMIN HEAD Dilip Kaur delay in publication, error or failure of advertisement to
EXECUTIVE-CIRCULATION Hari Puri, Raja Rari appear.
Owned and published by: Varun Malhotra, Editor &
Publisher, EB-63, Maya Enclave, Hari Nagar, New Delhi -
110064 and printed at in-house facility.
CONTENTS
JANUARY 2021 VOL. 9, ISSUE. 1
WALL OF WELL WISHES
pg-8
ENTERING THE EIGHTH
WITH A NEW LIGHT AND BRIGHTER VISION
From initiating the operations for a single magazine to bagging “the best travel trade publication” and becoming the
pioneers of the media industry, the success story of TravelScapes is worth sharing! It all started in 2013 as a dream of
a visionary, Varun Malhotra, who had a keen insight for business development, innovation in his hands and passion
in his eyes to drive the organization through nothing but success. Giving the encouragement to his progressive views
and unique vision, Pranav Khullar joined the journey and then there was no turning back. Today, the views of the
industry about TravelScapes speak volumes as the work we have done, the content we deliver have created value and
unique quality standards. Today, while we are proud of standing on the pinnacle of success, we look back and thank
those who were an incredibly important part of this journey. As the New Year starts with new aspirations, newer
opportunities and much refreshed concept of tourism, we are extremely fortunate to begin 2021 with the valuable
wishes from the stalwarts of the industry.
LOOKING AHEAD
14 ODISHA TOURISM TO GO
VOCAL FOR LOCAL IN 2021
Jyoti Prakash Panigrahi, Minister of
Tourism, Odia Language, Literature &
Culture, Government of Odisha unveils
the focus driven campaigns that the
state is gearing up for in 2021 while he
also brings a spotlight on the state’s
game-changing model of community-
based ecotourism and the strategies on
GLOBETROTTER how Odisha is planning to maintain the
consistency in promoting responsible
28 A STROLL THROUGH THE AMAZING ALLEYS OF and sustainable travel
ANTALYA
What adds to the peerless experience of visiting this classically beautiful city
are some of the most eloquent resorts, clear sunsets, beautiful and serene
beaches, the narrow, colourful lanes of the seaside antique town wrapped
around the old harbour and more alike. Here, we list the personally experienced
top five experiences that add to the absolute magnificence of Antalya GUEST COLUMN
19 “WE ARE CONVINCED
REGULAR UPDATES THAT FREEDOM TO TRAVEL
WILL RETURN”
5...................................................................................................................................MoT Shedding a light on what still needs to
20..............................................................................................................................Trade happen to create a future-fit tourism in
24................................................................................................................... Hospitality 2021, Rakesh Bansal, CEO, Amadeus
29..................................................................................................................... Outbound India and sub-continent, connects the
dots and suggests the ways that can
31..........................................................................................................................Aviation work highly in favour of rebuilding travel-
34................................................................................................................On the Move ler confidence
4 travelscapesonline.com JANUARY 2021
TravelScapes MoT UPDATE
Ministry of Tourism organises
Domestic Tourism roadshow in Goa
M inistry of Tourism, Government of
India organised the domestic tourism
road show in Goa through its India Tourism
15 tour operators who drove into Goa to
experience the Road travel which is now
gaining popularity as travel is unlocking
office in Goa. This event was organised in across the country. 30 members of Travel
collaboration with Goa Tourism and Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG)
and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG). participated in the roadshow.
This B2B event and second in series of J. Ashok Kumar, Secretary (Tourism),
domestic tourism Roadshows in the Western Govt. of Goa informed about the release of
and Central Region that the Ministry of new Tourism policy of Goa in November,
Tourism has planned to conduct since the 2020 which aims on shifting from Coastal
COVID–19 outbreak was inaugurated by to Hinterland Tourism in the State. He also
Rupinder Brar , Additional Director General,
Ministry of Tourism .
informed about the state having a dedicated
agency for Beach Clean – up and forthcoming
IRCTC’s new Divine Train to
This roadshow featured fruitful initiative of having a dedicated Police Force cover all religious, heritage sites
engagement between tour operators from for all beaches.
Maharashtra and Goa. This event was one Goa Tourism Development Corporation in Maharashtra
of the series of roadshows being organized made a presentation on the limitless options
in the Ministry of Tourism’s Mumbai Office
(Western & Central Region). Maharashtra
Tour Operators delegation consisted of
for holiday makers in Goa and especially the
new tourism products being developed by
the state.
T he Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation
(IRCTC) is all set to start the "Divine Maharashtra" tourist
train operations from January 8 to cover the prominent religious
and heritage tourist destinations in central India.
Siddharth Singh, Spokesperson, IRCTC, in a statement said,
"IRCTC, a Railway Ministry PSU, will start the state of art AC
Deluxe Tourist Train "Divine Maharashtra" tour from Delhi
Safdarjung Railway Station on January 8." The train will start from
Safdarjung Station on January 8 and end on January 12.
"The Divine Maharashtra tour will cover the prominent religious
and heritage tourist destinations in central India. This tour will
showcase two important Jyotirlingas i.e. Trimbakeshwar Shiva
Temple in Maharashtra's Nasik and Ghrishneshwar in Aurangabad,
Shirdi Sai and Shani temples and UNESCO World heritage site
Ellora caves in four nights and five days tour," Singh added.
He said this new deluxe tourist train has a host of features
including two fine dining restaurants, a modern kitchen, shower
cubicles in coaches, sensor based washroom functions, foot
massager. Singh said the Maharashtra Divine train has been
designed in line with the Government's initiative "Dekho Apna
Desh" to promote domestic tourism. The tour package cost starts
at INR 24,120 per person for domestic tourists. All necessary health
Telangana Tourism unveils online
precautions will be taken during the tour.
The package cost is inclusive of train fare, all onboard and off
board meals, hotel stay/ arrangements at Shirdi (two nights),
portal for single-window clearance guided excursions with English-speaking tour escorts in air-
conditioned buses, monument entry fee and travel insurance for the
T ourism Minister of Telangana, V Srinivas
Goud launched TS-Industrial Project
Approval and Self-Certification System
pollution control board, municipality,
etc. All that cumbersome process is now
history. Applicants, including those setting
passengers. He said government or PSU employees can avail LTC
facility on this tour as per their eligibility based on the guidelines
issued by the Ministry of Finance.
(TS-iPASS) service to quickly process the up hotels, resorts, travel agencies and event
issuance of various licences, clearances and management companies can now apply for
certificates required to come up with hotels, permissions in the TS-iPASS portal through
resorts, travel agents, tourism events and an online single-window system, which is Himachal extends night curfew in
other activities. user-friendly.”
The portal, set to bring a major boost four key districts
to the hospitality and tourism industry of
the state, was inaugurated in the presence
of Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary,
Industries; Srinivasa Raju, Tourism Secretary
T here will be no public New Year celebrations in Shimla, Kullu,
Kangra and Mandi as the Himachal Pradesh government has
extended night curfew in the four districts till January 5 to contain
and B Manohar, MD, Telangana State the spread of COVID-19. The decision to extend the curfew was
Tourism Development Corporation (TSTDC). taken in a state Cabinet meeting chaired by CM Jai Ram Thakur,
Speaking during the launch, Goud said, said Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Bhardwaj. The curfew
“If an entrepreneur plans to set up a hotel, will be in place from 9 pm to 6 am in Shimla, Mandi, Kangra and
he needs to obtain clearances and approvals Kullu districts, Bhardwaj said. Earlier, the state government had
from 15 departments, including fire services, decided to impose night curfew from November 23 to December 15.
JANUARY 2021 travelscapesonline.com 5
UPDATE MoT TravelScapes
Govt. to launch ‘Ramayan Cruise
Service’ on the Saryu River
I n another push to tourism at the birth
place of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, the Union
government will launch a 'Ramayan Cruise
Tour' on the Saryu River in the holy city
soon.
The project was reviewed by Mansukh Kumbh Mela 2021 to take place for
Mandaviya, Union Minister of State for
Ports, Shipping and Waterways, at a 48 days instead of three months
meeting for the implementation of cruise
service. "It will be the first-ever luxury
cruise service on the Saryu river in Ayodhya.
It aims to give a mesmerising experience to
T he Kumbh Mela will be held for 48 days in Haridwar next
year instead of three and half months, Uttarakhand Urban
Development Minister Madan Kaushik said.
the devotees with one-of- its-kind spiritual "The Uttarakhand government will issue the notification for the
journeys while cruising through the famous tourists. The cruise contains bio toilets and Kumbh Mela in February instead of January 1", the Minister said.
ghats of the holy river," said a statement hybrid engines system for the ‘zero effect’ on "Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, preparations have been made for
issued by the ministry. environment. main baths to be held in March-April. Devotees can take royal bath
The cruise will be equipped with all Tourists will be taken on the during these 48 days," the Minister said while speaking to ANI.
luxury comfort and facilities along with all ‘Ramcharitmanas Tour’, of 1-1.5 hour He added, "Devotees coming to Kumbh Mela will also be allowed till
essential safety and security features at par duration, featuring an exclusively made the bath. While the Kumbh Mela had been for three and a half months
with the global standard. The interiors of video film of 45-60 minutes duration, based since years, this time the duration of Kumbh will be one and a half
the cruise and the boarding point will be on Ramcharitmanas by Goswami Tulsidas, months due to the changed circumstances."
based on the theme of Ramcharitmanas. covering the period from the birth of Lord The Uttarakhand Chief Minister has approved INR 17.34 crore for
The fully air-conditioned 80-seater Ram to his Rajyabhishek. The entire tour a surveillance system, for which INR 6.94 crore will be released as the
cruise will have large glass windows for will cover the approximately 15-16 Km first instalment. Along with this, the CM has allotted INR 15.46 crore
experiencing the scenic beauty of Ghats. distance. The tour will be followed by Saryu for purchasing material for setting up a temporary 1,000 bed COVID
The cruise will be equipped with kitchen Aarti, in which every member will be able to care centre and INR 6.18 crore will be released as the first installment.
and pantry facilities for the comfort of the actively participate.
Medical tourism could be big area for ASI lifts cap on number
of visitors to its Centrally
growth post-Corona: Patel Protected Monuments
S peaking at an ASSOCHAM conference, Prahlad
Singh Patel, Minister of State, Ministry of
Tourism & Culture, said that the tourism industry T he Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) of
M/o Culture has removed the cap on the
could benefit a lot from medical tourism in the post number of visitors to its Centrally Protected
Corona period as India has not just proved to be safer Monuments/ sites. This is as per the latest
vis a vis other places and got a lot of recognition and communication on the updated SOPs for
name in the world for this but is also the most ideal Centrally Protected Monuments/ sites, issued
for dealing with post-Corona impacts that people by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on
may still carry. Dec 18, 2020 to the Regional Directors and
Addressing the session on “Reviving the stressed Superintending Archaeologists.
sectors to support the post-COVID recovery for However, the total number of visitors to be
India” at ASSOCHAM’s virtual conference, the allowed per day may be decided by the concerned
Minister said, “ Corona is almost over now and Superintending Archaeologist/SA (I/c) with the
whatever damage it had to do has happened. Economic Forum. In the post COVID recovery, I concurrence of the respective District Magistrate,
During this period our steps brought a lot of good would like to say that we truly are a blessed land. who is the chairman of the District Disaster
name for the country. Even foreigners preferred to Having said that, we are not forgetting the global Management Committee of the district.
stay back here and felt safe. Now the post-Corona market too.” The SOP further states that selling of physical
situation is one where our system of medicine, Moderating the event, Dr. Subhash Goyal, tickets may be resumed where there are problems
local cure and wellness methods are what could be Founder & Chairman, STIC Travel Group of in QR code and network. Sound and light show
best suited to deal with it. After corona, medical Companies, said, “After Covid-19, tourism was the may be resumed.
tourism is expected to rise and we must be first to get affected and will be the last to recover. The communication also states that all
prepared for this opportunity.” However, if scheduled international flights are centrally protected monuments and sites
Rupinder Brar, IRS Additional Director General, started along with e-visas then it can also be the shall continue to be bound by the COVID
Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, said, first to bounce back. With a little financial and related protocols issued by the Ministry of
“Domestic tourism is now happening in a more taxation support, we could save about 50 million Home Affairs, Ministry of Health and Family
organic fashion as an organised vertical and has jobs and Tourism and Aviation industry could Welfare and Ministry of Culture as also any
a lot of potential. India’s natural heritage has play a major role in achieving the 5 trillion dollar specific orders of the State and/or District
been rated 6th greatest in the world by the World economy for our country.” administration.
6 travelscapesonline.com JANUARY 2021
TravelScapes MoT UPDATE
Odisha launches road trip circuits
between its key cities & Kolkata
A ddressing the ‘Odisha Tourism Virtual
Roadshow- 2020’ held for the tourism
fraternity from Kolkata, West Bengal,
mapped out in detail to give the tourist a
truly immersive experience. The first road
circuit, ‘Deep into the Mangroves’, from
organized by Odisha Tourism and FICCI, Jyoti Kolkata to Bhitarkanika via Bichitrapur
Prakash Panigrahi, Minister of Tourism, Odia Sanctuary & Chandipur (4N-5D), covers
Language, Literature & Culture, Government key destinations, Bichitrapur Mangrove
of Odisha said, “This an opportune time to Sanctuary, Talasari Beach, Chandipur’s
reach out to the tour operators from West Receding Beach, Aul Palace and Bhitarkanika
Bengal. Odisha receives 14 per cent of its National Park along this route.
tourists from West Bengal. The relation The second road trip circuit, ‘The Trail
between the two states is like two sides of of Cascades-Keonjhar’, from Kolkata to
the same coin, with similarities in culture Keonjhar – 500 km (3N-4D) covers the
and cuisine. A MoU for joint promotion Bhimkund Waterfalls, Sitabinji Caves’
of tourism between the states will surely fresco paintings, Terracota craft village
Govt plans to launch Seaplane enhance the movement of tourists between
the states.”
at Ghatagaon, Gundichaghai Waterfalls,
Sanaghagara & Badaghagara Waterfalls and
Services with potential airline West Bengal and Odisha share many Kanjipani Ghati.
cultural similarities. To promote tourism The third road trip circuit, ‘Tiger trails and
operators exchange between the two states, Odisha Royalty’ from Kolkata to Similipal – 470 Km
launched three road trip itineraries that are (3N-4D).
T he Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is initiating
the process of commencing operations of the Seaplane
services on the select routes under a Special Purpose Vehicle
(SPV) framework through prospective airline operators. The
project execution and implementation would be through
Sagarmala Development Company Ltd (SDCL), which is under
the administrative control of the Ministry.
Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Ports, Shipping and
Waterways (I/C) said that initiation of seaplane operations align
with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
to improve connectivity across the nation and make India as an
attractive destination for the tourists.
According to release issued by the Govt, several destinations
are envisaged for seaplane operations. The proposed origin-
destination pairs under hub and spoke model include various
islands of Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep, Guwahati
Riverfront & Umranso Reservoir in Assam, Yamuna Riverfront
/ Delhi (as Hub) to Ayodhaya, Tehri, Srinagar(Uttrakhand),
Chandigarh and many other tourist places of Punjab & HP;
Mumbai (as Hub) to Shirdi, Lonavala, Ganpatipule; Surat (as
Hub) to Dwarka, Mandvi & Kandla; Khindsi Dam, Nagpur &
Erai Dam, Chandrapur (in Maharashtra) and/or any other Hub
& Spoke suggested by the Operator. India Tourism Mumbai enchants mall
visitors with brand activation event
SDCL is keen to associate with the interested scheduled /
non-scheduled airline operators. The joint development and
operation of “Sagarmala Seaplane Services (SSPS)” will be
undertaken by forming a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) with
Sagarmala Development Company Limited (SDCL).
The seaplanes services will be a game-changer providing a
M inistry of Tourism’s Regional Office,
Indiatourism Mumbai launched its
Domestic Tourism marketing campaign
The seven-day event is designed to capture
the essence and unique atmosphere of
the many holiday options that India offers
supplementary means of faster and comfortable transportation ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ under the theme ‘Explore including the driving holidays, weekend
across the nation. Apart from providing air connectivity to Incredible India’ with a successful brand destinations around Mumbai.
various remote religious/tourist places, it will boost tourism for activation event in the Reliance Mall , Borivali, The Incredible India Installation in
domestic and international holidaymakers. It will save travel Mumbai from Dec 25 to Dec 31, 2020. Reliance Mall, Borivali will also showcase the
time and stimulate localized short distance travelling especially In time when destinations in India are tourism potential of Odisha which is paired
in the hilly regions or across the rivers/lakes etc. In addition to unlocking and with objective to woo the with Maharashtra under the Ek Bharat
the infrastructural enhancements at the places of operations, it Domestic travellers to choose their preferred Shreshtha Bharat initiative of Government
will enormously boost tourism and business activities. destination for their upcoming holiday of India. The installation will showcase
By providing air connectivity to numerous remote, religious/ season and weekend holidays, mall visitors Sawantwadi Toys and Warli Painting as they
tourist places and unexplored locations near the water bodies of all ages were provided travel information are one of the representatives of the artistic
will make the journey easier. It will generate employment through promotional staff and special identity of Maharashtra. They are tangible
opportunities and stimulate tourism on these new locations, promotional packages prepared by local pieces of culture that have been passed down
which will consequently contribute to the country’s GDP in the travel agents and Tour operators located in generation after generation. And nothing
long run. Borivali, Mumbai. unifies like art.
JANUARY 2021 travelscapesonline.com 7
TravelScapes
ENTERING
THE EIGHTH
WITH A NEW LIGHT
AND BRIGHTER VISION
From initiating the operations for a single magazine to bagging “the best travel trade
publication” and becoming the pioneers of the media industry, the success story of
TravelScapes is worth sharing! It all started in 2013 as a dream of a visionary, Varun
Malhotra, who had a keen insight for business development, innovation in his hands
and passion in his eyes to drive the organization through nothing but success. Giving
the encouragement to his progressive views and unique vision, Pranav Khullar joined
the journey and then there was no turning back. Today, the views of the industry about
TravelScapes speak volumes as the work we have done, the content we deliver have
created value and unique quality standards.
Today, while we are proud of standing on the pinnacle of success, we look back and
thank those who were an incredibly important part of this journey. As the New Year
starts with new aspirations, newer opportunities and much refreshed concept of
tourism, we are extremely fortunate to begin 2021 with the valuable wishes from the
stalwarts of the industry.
Varun Malhotra, Publisher & CEO, TravelScapes Magazine
"Even after I get to hear so many views about the print going down the drain after digital media taking
the lead, I still stand strong to the fact that print magazine beats even the internet and social media in
surprises and supreme satisfaction. Talking about our very own product, TravelScapes, the unmatched
covers, high resolution photographs and contemporary writing has always ensured that we stood out in
the crowd, rising to where we are today, the Best Travel Trade Magazine in India with a readership of 2,
00,000 plus despite the digital revolution. Moving forward, we will constantly strive to beat our own high
standards and continue to bring you reliable content that is both easily understood and abiding by the
trends of a new normal."
Pranav Khullar, Director, TravelScapes Magazine
"Over the years, tourism sector has become the engine that drives economic growth, improves quality of
life and creates further opportunities in the travel related fields. And we are proud to say that TravelScapes
has become one of those fuelling engines. To reach at this zenith of success where we have been recognized
as the award winning magazine and have our own very successful award show (VETA) ruling around the
capital, it surely takes perseverance and flexibility, of course. But primarily, it takes teamwork. Today, we
acknowledge all of our team members and their efforts and especially, we thank all our dear readers. If it
weren't for all of them, we wouldn't celebrate today. Their contribution has been, still is and certainly will
be crucial to everything that makes TravelScapes a vibrant reality and a monthly affair loved by all!"
8 travelscapesonline.com JANUARY 2021
TravelScapes
WALL OF WELL WISHES
Subhash Goyal
Chairman, Stic Group & Hon. Secretary, FAITH
I am delighted to know that Versatile Media is celebrating its eight years of publishing a beautiful and informative
magazine known as TravelScapes. I am very happy and proud to know that it has nearly 36,000 issues circulating
all over India and has bagged four awards since they established. Today, Travelscapes has become one of
India's trusted travel trade news sources. It provides good source of information on Tourism, Travel, Hospitality
and Aviation industry. On behalf of all the organizations, I represent and my personal behalf, I would like to
compliment Varun Malhotra - Publisher, Pranav Khullar and the whole team of TravelScapes for their eighth
Anniversary issue and wish them all the success for many more years to come.
Anil Parashar
President & CEO, ITQ
It is always a pleasure to applaud the excellent work of information harbingers as TravelScapes, especially, in
times of pandemic situation when the world stopped for a while; however, our industry communicators continued
their high spirits of delivering industry information and relevant content. Hope you will keep us all engaged and
informed in the years to come, opening avenues for wider exchange and dialogue on key industry matters, issues
and concerns. Many congratulations on your 8th year anniversary. Wish you greater outreach and engagement.
Thoyyib Mohamed Cholada Siddhivarn Suneet Goenka
Managing Director, MMPRC Director Tourism Authority of Group Managing Director, Red
Thailand Apple Group
Over the last few years Maldives has rapidly ascended Congratulations on your milestone
Heartiest congratulations to the
to the top of the list of the most preferred holiday 8th Anniversary! Wishing Varun
destinations for Indians. What was once perceived entire team at TravelScapes. Here's
& Team TravelScapes the very
as a ‘dream’ destination is now more accessible than wishing you and your entire team
ever, more talked about and increasingly more visited, best always. You have definitely
many more years of unparalleled
registering a staggering 433% growth in Indian tourist raised the standards of Tourism
visits between the months of September and October success and unrivalled corporate
Publications with great reporting,
2020. Sure, we can accredit this to its jaw-dropping services. Congratulations on this
landscape, close proximity, easy flights, aspirational Stories and extremely good quality
value etc, but an undeniable role has been played by
special day.
of physical prints making the read
media stakeholders who have brought Maldives closer
totally worth our time. Wishing
to Indians. On its 8th anniversary, MMPRC presents Happy anniversary!
its gratitude to Travelscapes for its quality editorial you all more success in all your
coverage, exceptional reportage, commendable
turnaround time and relentless support. Wish you all
endeavors.
the best and may you continue to thrive.
JANUARY 2021 travelscapesonline.com 9
TravelScapes
Dev Karvat
CEO, The Karvat Group
TravelScapes is definitely one of the magazines that I look forward to reading
every month. What sets it apart is its delivering of a fine blend of education and
entertainment from the Travel and Tourism industry with breathtaking images
from around the world. Congratulations on completing eight fruitful years. My
team and I wish you the very best for your future endeavours!
Ajay Bakaya
Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts
Our heartiest congratulations to the TravelScapes magazine for completing
eight long successful years in the industry! It’s one of the go-to magazines for all
the update on travel, hospitality and tourism industry. We hope the magazine
reaches even greater heights in future and hope it keeps entertaining passionate
readers as it has been doing with each passing day. We wish TravelScapes many
more years of success and growth.
Kush Kapoor Pronab Sarkar Jyoti Mayal
CEO- Roseate Hotels & President, IATO (Indian Association President, TAAI (Travel Agents
Resorts of Tour Operators) Association of India)
We’ve been associated with TravelScapes IATO appreciates your whole hearted support to the On behalf of my entire team at TAAI, I would like to
for quite some time now and I appreciate Tourism Industry and TravelScapes magazine has convey my heartfelt congratulations on this significant
come of age. It has anchored itself in its pursuit of 8th anniversary of TravelScapes. Over the years, your
their personalized services and
glory. The 8-year saga has seen your meteoric rise. publication has forged an impressive path, attaining
commitment towards providing us with The 36,000 issues circulating PAN India, the 4 awards widespread recognition and becoming an ideal forum
some outstanding media opportunities etched with your name and the well acknowledged for the promotion of tourism and valuable takeaways
in this competitive space. It’s an absolute quality brand engagements have catapulted for the industry stakeholders. Looking ahead, we
TravelScapes as India’s most trusted B2B travel trade are sure that your publication will continue to play
pleasure working with you all and I
news sources. It is indeed an honour to be part of your that vital role as the travel trade magazine that will
would like to thank you for being a part stupendous journey. The momentum that you have encourage the entire tourism, hospitality & aviation
of us. Roseate Hotels & Resorts wishes generated in the minds of your readership has given industry to be the best and resilient, especially in the
TravelScapes and their entire team a very you the pride of a place in your space of endeavours. I phase of recovery after COVID-19.I wish you many
wish TravelScapes a tsunami of success, even greater more creative achievements and success in all your
happy anniversary! We wish you many
accomplishment in the years to come and reach the endeavours. May the entire team of Travelscapes
more years of unparalleled success and pinnacle where your peers will dare. continues creating credibility.
best of luck for all your future endeavors.
10 travelscapesonline.com JANUARY 2021TravelScapes
WALL OF WELL WISHES
P P Khanna
President, Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India
Media is one of the means or channels of general communication, information, or entertainment in society.
TravelScapes has been contributing to the growth of Tourism through its Electronic/print media by bringing
the happening in the tourism industry for information of general public as well as the stakeholders of the
industry. The contents of their publications are very interesting, informative and illustrative whether it is about
destinations, hospitality sector, personalities or any other topic relating to tourism. It is heartening to know that
TravelScapes magazine is celebrating its 8 years of publishing- a great leap! PAN India circulation, awards and
a series of successful quality brand engagements, all speak of TravelScapes as India’s most trusted B2B travel
trade news sources. ADTOI has been associated with TravelScapes since long and it has provided the much
needed assistance in the growth of our Association. On this occasion, we wish TravelScapes all the very best and
hope they continue to inspire the tourism industry with their good work.
Ankush Nijhawan
MD- Nijhawan Group & Co-founder, TBO Group
TravelScapes has been a reliable source for daily updates from the travel
industry. I am happy to know that the magazine has completed eight years
of successful journalism in the travel industry. 2021 is going to be a year of
success and recovery for the travel fraternity. Congratulations to the team
on this major success.
Munnmunn Marwah Pankaj Nagpal Pradeep Saboo
COO, Think Strawberries Managing Director, Travstarz Chairman & MD, Guideline
Global Group Travels
In the representation business you are as good as Heartiest congratulations to Varun, TravelScapes has been one of the prominent Travel
the repute you’ve been able to build for your clients. Pranav and Team TravelScapes Trade Magazines which truly voices the opinion and
This compels a symphony of excellent teamwork that showcases the mood of the Travel Industry. Their
manifests through a tremendous outpour of effort. on your eighth anniversary. We content is a balanced mix of industry news, expert
Several specialists come together and synergize to have seen the magazine grow from opinions along with the promotion of products.
be able to create value. In this scenario where the We always look forward to the upcoming issue of
the scratch to being one of the
smallest slip could result in irreparable damage, we TravelScapes every month and appreciate their vast
find confidence in partners like TravelScapes who dominating publications in travel research and efforts to put up every news item. Its
have continued to raise editorial standards with media and we both wish you all the 8 years and counting for this wonderful team of
their unbiased reportage and razor-sharp coverage. TravelScapes.
Heartiest congratulations to the entire team at
very best for an even better future
TravelScapes for eight years of unwavering excellence ahead as we move into 2021. All the Congratulations and Happy Anniversary.
in travel news coverage. Happy to have been part of very best!
this journey.
JANUARY 2021 travelscapesonline.com 11TravelScapes
Manish Dayya
General Manager – Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and Hyderabad
International Convention Centre
On this blissful and charming day of your eighth anniversary, I would like to
thank you for being an integral part of the hospitality industry and success over
the years. We greatly appreciate and value your work in the travel trade space,
may you continue the journey of success with pride! Happy Anniversary!
Arzan Khambatta
Head, Czech Tourist Authority – CzechTourism India
TravelScapes has been one of India’s most trusted B2B travel news outlets. We
sincerely congratulate TravelScapes for completing eight successful years. A
special mention for the hardworking and very efficient team at TravelScapes,
we look forward to more fulfilling associations in the future. May you have many
more milestones in the years to come, Happy Anniversary!
BA Rahim Naresh Rawal Ravi Gosain
Director, One Above Destination Vice President – Sales & Marketing, MD- Erco travels Pvt Ltd.
Management Services Genting Cruise Lines
I always say to myself and to my colleagues these Only the best in the industry from a content and It’s always been a pleasure to read TravelScapes
words and keep reminding them “don’t be a product presentation point of view can stand the test of time Magazine during previous years, I am glad and would
be productive” as an employee or employer just don’t and team TravelScapes, under the leadership of Varun, like to congratulate team members for completing
follow instructions or follow the trend create a trend has cleared this test with flying colors. TravelScapes has 8 years and bringing interesting news from Travel,
and make others follow with it. One company in travel always stood as one of the best travel magazines which is Tourism and Hospitality world. I hope TravelScapes
digital world and a b2b magazine that has created why we have been advertising and associated with them will keep up the content quality and designing
a niche, out of the box thought is TravelScapes. My since the beginning. You have been able to connect the for readers in future as well. My best wishes for
association with Varun, Pranav and their team has magazine and brands like ours to likeminded and caring betterment and successful forthcoming editions
been from day one of TravelScapes’ incorporation travel professionals. We truly value our relationship
and I have personally seen them evolving in business and association with TravelScapes and recognize your
differently and creating an image globally. Feel proud contribution towards the travel trade which as of now is
of associating with a young and dynamic company like undergoing its toughest phase. While each one of us will
TravelScapes. do our best, media partners like TravelScapes will be a key
to communicate our efforts to the consumers and trade
partners. Congratulations once again for the 8 years and
many blessings for the next 25 years.
12 travelscapesonline.com JANUARY 2021TravelScapes
WALL OF WELL WISHES
Rayomand Choksi
Regional Director (Responsible: India, S. Asia, GCC, Iran,
Japan, Australia, New Zealand)
The Mt Titlis team joins me in wising TravelScapes a very happy 8th birthday. From a young fledgling it has
grown into a powerhouse of information and news of the aviation and the travel and tourism sector. Our
relationship with it has always been very professional with a high delivery standard. The management and
editorial team have always been cooperative and proactive. We wish it a smooth and successful journey in the
coming years and long may it continue. The accolades and awards it has been given are well deserved and may
TravelScapes continue to prosper.
Pushpendra Bansal
COO Lords Hotels and Resorts
I am delighted to hear the news that your magazine has completed eight years and has reached this position
.We are proud of our association as you show case the very best from travel and tourism in your publications.
TravelScapes has forged an impressive path, attaining widespread recognition and becoming a reputed Travel
Trade Publication. The intellectual team of TravelScapes boasts a high level of professionalism, vast practical
experience, and its own singular conception of content creation. Congratulations to you and your team once again
and best wishes for your future success, good fortune, and the attainment of new triumphs.
Noshir A Marfatia
Senior Vice President - Sales & Marketing, The Fern Hotels &
Resorts
On this milestone occasion, my heartiest congratulations to Varun, Pranav and the entire TravelScapes team, on
completing 8 years of publishing. Both TravelScapes and MICEInsiders provide comprehensive industry coverage
and insights, and the annual VETA Awards have become one of the leading platforms for recognizing hospitality
stalwarts and hoteliering achievements. My colleagues Mohit Sharad and everyone else at The Fern Hotels &
Resorts join me in wishing the team at TravelScapes continued success and higher accomplishments in your
onward journey. More power to your pen!
Rajeev Kohli
Rajeev Kohli, Joint Managing Director, Creative Travel
Congratulations Team TravelScapes. How time flies when you are having fun. I have seen you grow over the years
and mature as publication and as a team. Never stop dreaming big and never stop innovating in how you deliver
the views and news of the industry. All the best!
JANUARY 2021 travelscapesonline.com 13LOOKING AHEAD TravelScapes
ODISHA TOURISM TO GO VOCAL
FOR LOCAL IN 2021
Jyoti Prakash Panigrahi, Minister of Tourism, Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Government
of Odisha unveils the focus driven campaigns that the state is gearing up for in 2021. He also brings a
spotlight on the state’s game-changing model of community-based ecotourism and the strategies on how
Odisha is planning to maintain the consistency in promoting responsible and sustainable travel
By Gagneet Kaur
Under the dynamic leadership of the Chief Minister, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik declared tourism open,
Naveen Patnaik and praiseworthy efforts by the state barring places of worship, we progressively opened
tourism authority- Odisha Tourism Development destinations and products with protocols.
Corporation (OTDC), Odisha is excelling across all the Information dissemination: We have developed a
sectors with tourism standing at the forefront as its major comprehensive “Safety First” module as a part of the
focus. Tourism has always been one of the key areas award-winning website odishatourism.gov.in, which
for the state and that is the reason we observed Odisha informs tourists of safety measures adopted by hospitality
Tourism Development Corporation coming forward as units, guidelines and protocols and updates on the
the early adapters to the pandemic protocols and one of opening up of tourist destinations in the state.
the key innovators who used the opportunity to revive the Preserving and enriching the event calendar: Having
state’s tourism through any and every means. pioneered risk mitigation and revival strategies, Odisha
“Central to unveiling ‘India’s best-kept secret’ is has bounced back, case in example being the recently
to enrich the experience, towards which each of our organised Konark Festival and Sand Art Festival 2020. It
initiatives is oriented,” Panigrahi says and continues listing was inaugurated by our leader, Naveen Patnaik, to emerge
the focus areas and special campaigns that are aimed at as India’s first cultural festival post opening up of the
helping preserve visitors’ confidence in quality. Jyoti Prakash Panigrahi lockdown – In complete adherence to COVID-19 safety
protocols. Odisha Tourism will in 2021 add the Odissi
Eco Retreat homestays in key locations to personalise Odia hospitality Music Festival and a few other exciting events to its vibrant
The most outstanding outcome has been the Eco Retreat, – offering tourists unique cultural experiences while calendar.
Eastern India’s foremost glamping festival. Up till 28 dwelling in local family homes. Cuisine will be among the Interstate cooperation: Transcending state
February 2021, Eco Retreat Odisha has been stepped up best aspects of travel to Odisha, with OTDC’s foray into boundaries, the Government of Odisha has emphasized
to five unique locations – Bhitarkanika National Park, premium fine-dining in Odia Cuisine under the brand the need for interstate cooperation to jointly develop,
Daringbadi Hill-station, Hirakud Reservoir, Konark’s name of Nimantran. Three restaurants are set to open market and manage long duration itineraries spanning
Ramchandi Beach and Satkosia Tiger Reserve. Offering in Bhubaneswar, Puri and Sambalpur, which will push the region. It envisions the region comprising Odisha and
luxurious stays with a host of activities included in its up the exotic quotient of the underrated offering. Not far neighbouring states such as West Bengal, Jharkhand,
itineraries, Eco Retreat Odisha has received a bumper behind is heritage hospitality, which is seldom associated Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh to develop into a
response, with the last two weeks of December witnessing with Odisha. Several heritage homestays are open to tourism hotspot in general and favourite of road trip
100% occupancy. tourists, hosted by erstwhile royal families. We will also explorers and campers in particular.
launch a scheme to encourage several more heritage
Odisha By Road campaign hotels to open in the coming years. Prioritising safety of tourists:
The most enjoyable route to discovering Odisha’s The Department of Tourism has recently engaged
hidden jewels is through the state’s excellent road Community-managed ecotourism with all the stakeholders and has provided training on
network. The Odisha By Road campaign offers tourists Odisha’s most championed segment – is set for COVID-19 protocols. Consistent with Odisha’s stellar
diverse itineraries ranging from two to five nights, an aesthetic overhaul, through enhanced quality management of the pandemic, the Eco Retreats will be
through beaches, forests, hill-stations, tribal hinterlands, of accommodations and services, while preserving implemented in complete compliance with guidelines
waterbodies, cities and promising experiences in sustainability. We are targeting to double its capacity of and SOPs, as informed by the minister.
cuisine, heritage, adventure, ethnic encounters, arts and nature camps from over 300 at present to 600 in the “While Odisha presents its exciting offerings, we
handicrafts, leisure, wildlife and ecotourism. coming years. also assure utmost safety to our visitors. We have been
Keeping in mind the state offering visitor experiences scrupulously implementing risk mitigation guidelines
Experiential Activities along with also maintaining the increased awareness and issued by the Govt. of India, and our partners in the
Holidays in Odisha promise to be unprecedented in 2021, need for responsible travel, Panigrahi further highlights hospitality industry are adequately adopting technology
with the introduction of several niche experiences. Key the most critical parameters of the tourism sector’s post- and SOPs to ensure that every tourist is served with
among them is cruise tourism in the state’s beautiful COVID recovery. safety.”
wetlands – from the iconic Chilika Lake and Bhitarkanika Capacity Building: DoT conducted COVID-19 Risk “Despite the looming apprehensions in the aftermath
backwaters to the Mahanadi River and Hirakud Reservoir. Mitigation and Hygiene training sessions for OTDC of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have considerably
The Tourism and Forest & Environment Departments and Ecotour Odisha community managers and staff succeeded at convincing tourists of the proactive safety
will jointly conduct the 3rd National Chilika Bird Festival collaboration. These sessions were conducted in protocols instituted at each Eco Retreat, including good
from 08 to 10 January 2021 for birders in Mangalajodi collaboration with premier hospitality training institutions practices in contact-less check-in and check-out, PPE
and add-on itineraries including Chandaka Dampara such as IITTM and IHM in batches to enable properties kits for staff, safe procurement of consumables, regular
Sanctuary and Satkosia Tiger Reserve. to open and operate in compliance with health and safety disinfection of all rooms, facilities and contact surfaces,
guidelines. Post opening of tourism in October, DoT has in thermal screening, provision of a comprehensive
Local at its best collaboration with IITTM organised an all-inclusive Series sanitation package for each checked-in guest, luggage
Visitors to Odisha will also get to go local, with the of Workshops on “Facing the New Normal”. sanitisation, social distancing norms and more,” he
state government set to launch a scheme to encourage Opening up strategy: In the run-up to October, when further informs.
14 travelscapesonline.com JANUARY 2021TravelScapes TRADE UPDATE
OTOAI virtually holds 8th AGM;
hopeful for a better 2021
O utbound Tour Operators Association of
India (OTOAI) held its 8th AGM on the
virtual platform, briefing its members and
fees for our members keeping the tough
times in mind. However, as situation got
worse, OTOAI reduced the renewal fees
media people on all that the association has for its members by 50 per cent for the
been doing for the last one year. The AGM financial year 2020 – 2021 and introduced
started by observing one minute’s silence in
the memory of all the people who lost their
a special price for its new members.”
Sidharth Khanna, Treasurer, OTOAI, India Tourism Mart goes virtual from
lives in the pandemic.
Riaz Munshi, President, OTOAI, in his
presenting the balance sheet, gave an
overview of the ‘financial standing’ of the
Feb 18 to 20
opening remarks said, “This has been an
unimaginably difficult year for all of us.
Never in our lives did we think that in such
organisation and detailed that with the
addition of 66 new members in 2020, the
current tally of OTOAI members stand at
F ederation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality, the
policy federation of all the national associations representing the
complete tourism, travel and hospitality industry of India and cause
a fast-paced technology driven lifestyle around 500. partner AIRDA is holding its India Tourism Mart – ITM, a buyer
there will come a time when everything Himanshu Patil, Vice President, OTOAI, seller meet in a virtual format from Feb 18 to 20, 2021.
will remain grounded and people will stay gave the vote of thanks at the end of the The buyer seller meet undertaken by FAITH in 2015 was
locked up in homes. However, I am hopeful AGM and thanked all the members for their inaugurated by the PM Modi. The one in 2018 was inaugurated
that 2021 will bring better news for all of support during these tough times. “I am by Union Cabinet Minister Piyush Goyal and the 2019 event was
us. We all stand together in these tough certain that soon travelling will start again inaugurated by Union Cabinet Minister Nitin Gadkari along with
times and OTOAI is there to help you every and 2021 will bring in more business for all Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel.
step of the way in whatever capacity we of us. The new term ‘Revenge Tourism’ will The India Tourism Mart which has been actively supported by
can.” give our industry the much-needed boost Ministry of Tourism is a highly vibrant marketplace. It has seen
Shravan Bhalla, General Secretary, and by 2022, outbound from India will be active attendance from over 250 buyers from over 65 countries
OTOAI, read out the ‘report card’ of booming again,” he said. having B2B interactions from hundreds of tourism exhibitors from
OTOAI activities starting August 2019 and Vineet Gopal, Jt. Secretary, OTOAI, who India including most of the State Governments, hotel companies,
enlisted the various workshops, seminars, was moderating the entire virtual session, tour operators and travel agents and tourist transporters.
certifications programs, webinars, trade thanked the media for their continuous The elite international buyers reflect a strategic mix of target
shows, roadshows etc. the associations has support and reiterated the optimistic countries which are critical, developed and under developing
participated in during the last 15 months. outlook shared by all the members of the markets for India. The tourism verticals in which B2B interactions
“On April 1, 2020 we deferred the renewal association for a better 2021. take place reflect a mix between leisure, adventure, mice, heritage
and niche tourism sectors.
Due to the pandemic, the format this year has gone virtual
and online B2B interactions will be held between Indian tourism
exhibitors and an elite group of global buyers who will be carefully
selected from over 90 countries.
Additionally, the domestic focus will figure too prominently in the
virtual format this year with domestic tourism buyers who too will be
invited reflecting a mix of tourism trade, corporate and institutional
tourism buyers. This will be in robust alignment to being more vocal
for local and a stronger ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ from tourism.
Another landmark showcase this year will be a very engaging
virtual knowledge tourism conclave which will look to bringing the
best in tourism and policy makers to discuss how Indian tourism is
strategic to India’s socio- economic goals.
Prague Airport receives ACI Airport Health Accreditation
L ast spring, in connection with the COVID-19
pandemic, Prague Airport began to implement a
number of measures aimed at protecting the health of
procedures at the airport and took steps to make the
airport safe. Due to the situation at hand, we also
decided to implement new cleaning and disinfection
both passengers and airport employees. The correct technologies, to invest in protective gear for employees
steps taken by the airport in this area have now and in protective plexiglass. We have also increased
been confirmed by the issuance of the international the frequency of cleaning and at the same time
ACI Airport Health Accreditation (AHA) Certificate, launched a major educational campaign among
which also appreciates the fact that the standards passengers and employees. Our long-term efforts have
implemented at Václav Havel Airport Prague meet now been confirmed by the receipt of the international
the requirements of international organizations in ACI Airport Health Accreditation, which also proves
the aviation industry. At the same time, obtaining the that the set protection measures work, eliminate
accreditation proves that a high level of functioning "Prague Airport has applied protection measures travel risks and thus increase the safety of flying
protective measures ensures increased safety of to its operation as one of the first entities in the Czech from Prague," Vaclav Rehor, Chairman of the Prague
passengers flying through Prague. Republic. Therefore, we changed some check-in Airport Board of Directors, said.
JANUARY 2021 travelscapesonline.com 15UPDATE MoT TravelScapes
Plunging into the surreal hues of
Kaleidoscopic Kutch
While the incredible architecture, incomparable culinary delights, historical monuments,
remnants of ancient civilisations and lavish golf courses boast the true essence of the state of
Gujarat, liveliness and the surreal landscapes are synonymous with the magnificent beauty of its
unique marvel called ‘Kutch’. Remarkably beautiful, Kutch, with its vast spreads of the white salt
desert, comes to life during the winters when the Rann Festival is held. The enchanting scenic
beauty and the vibrancy here cast a spell that is hard to break and there are plenty of believable
reasons why Kutch is considered as the true ‘heaven descending on earth’. Here, we list the top
reasons why Kutch should be your next choice for offbeat travelling…
1 RANN UTSAV
Cornucopia of Joy, Culture and Celebration
Kutch being a hub of vibrant and traditional fairs and festivals enjoys a brimming
life where people from different tribal communities like Rabari, Ahir, Marwada and
others assemble and celebrate with extreme joy. One such carnival that is known
for the abundance of colourful celebrations is Rann Utsav. Taking place every
year between November to February, this colourful carnival, organised with the
support of Gujarat Tourism, swanks the true culture of Gujarat and also features a
plethora of activities including the huge camp settlements with cultural programs,
camel safari, musical moments, handicrafts display and adventure activities like
hot-air ballooning. One also gets the opportunity to visit the villages in Rann and
understand how locals spend their lives here and stay in one of the traditional
huts or Bhungas in the Rann. But what enhances the true beauty is the endless
shimmering view of the landscape. Especially, during a full moon night, the natural
white light flashing on the desert sand gives a sheer glimpse of a paradise found
on earth. Call it a photographer’s delight, a must-see tourist attraction, a carnival
capturing lifetime moments or a brimming profusion of natural beauty, culture and
tradition, Kutch, never fails to impress!
16 travelscapesonline.com JANUARY 2021You can also read
