go now magazine october 2011

• SUKHBIR SINGH BADALON BRAND PUNJAB

• LUXURY UPGRADE INBRITISH AIRWAYS’ FIRST

• AHMEDABAD HOTELS ON ANOVERDRIVE

• ISLAND WONDERS OF THEDUTCH CARIBBEAN

• BLUE WATER LUXURY ATONE&ONLY REETI RAH

POSTCARDS

PUSHKAR FAIRSeason of Colour, Frolic, Culture

and Bustling Tourists

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| GO NOW October 2011

November 18-27

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Restoring the city ofPushkarA temple town near Ajmer,Pushkar is one of the oldesttowns in India and is on thecrossroads of managingburgeoning tourism vis-à-visdegradation of naturalenvironment. Only last year,the lake, showpiece of townwas replenished afterremaining dry for two years.This was due to scanty rainfalland rapid development oftourist facilities generatingtoxic waste discharge into thelake. Administration is hopefulof restoring the lake.

New properties foraccommodationNew properties have comearound the town. Fourkilometers from the town liesAnanda Spa & Resorts offeringaccommodation starting atRs 6,000 per night. PushkarBagh is a good option withrooms available around Rs4,500. With the upcomingannual camel fair inNovember, it is advisable tobook early to get best deals.

Kaleidoscope ofcolours: Pushkar FairThe temple town of Pushkar inRajasthan, home to India’sonly Brahmam temple gets un-usually crowded with visitorseach November. Cattle traders,shopkeepers, merchants, danc-ers, musicians and artisanscongregate in large numbersfor a four-day event whichholds the distinction of beingIndia’s largest cattle fair. Thefair is a cocktail of sights,smells and sounds which bringtogether everything Rajasthani.During the annual event (heldthis year from 18th to 27th No-vember) Pushkar’s narrowlanes feature trade, merrymak-ing and rejoicing that hasattracted scores of touristsfrom across the globe.

POSTCARDS

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• BA’S £100 MILLION FIRST• STOPOVER AT ISTANBUL’S LUXURY LOUNGE• THE ABC ISLANDS OF DUTCH CARIBBEAN• SCENIC INDULGENCE IN ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH• THE ORIGIN OF BUBBLY: CHAMPAGNE• BEACH GAZING IN UNPRECEDENTED PRIVACY,KANI LANKA

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AIRLINES & AIRPORTS BUZZ

Compiled by MANAVI SIDDHANTI

SWISS VOTEDEUROPE’SBEST BUSINESSCLASS AIRLINEVoted Europe’s BestBusiness-Class Airlinein World TravelAwards 2011, SwissInternational Air Lines(SWISS) serves 72destinations in 39countries all over theworld in the currentsummer schedule. Thedistinction is based onthe votes of more than183 000 specialistsfrom the travel andtourism sector all overthe world. A part ofthe Lufthansa Groupand a member of theStar Alliance,Switzerland’s nationalairline operates as anindependent carrierwith its own brand. InIndia, SwissInternational Air Linesoffers non-stop dailyflights betweenMumbai and Zurichand between Delhiand Zurich.

NOW CONNECTDAILY ON EMIRATESTO DUBLINEmirates announced recently that it will begin daily flights to Dublin from January 2012,marking its first route to the Republic of Ireland. The daily service, from 9th January next year,will leave Dubai at 0700hrs and arrive in the Irish capital at 1130hrs. The return flight leavesDublin at 1255hrs and gets into Dubai at 0025hrs the next day. An Airbus A330-200 will bedeployed between Dubai and Dublin, offering First, Business and Economy class. Dublin willbe the airline’s 29th route in Europe and Emirates’ customers in Ireland who currently travelthrough some UK gateways, will be able to fly non-stop for their convenience.

FIRST BOEING INLUFTHANSA’S LIVERYThe first Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental emerged from thepaint hangar at Boeing’s Everett factory near Seattle,resplendent in the Lufthansa livery. After completingextensive ground tests, the aircraft will undergo initial testflights in November, and is scheduled to go into service nextspring. Lufthansa is the launch customer for the passengerversion of the Boeing 747-8 and has therefore been involvedfrom the outset in the design of the aircraft. The Boeing 747-8 has been stretched by six metres, making it the world’slongest passenger airliner. The Boeing 747-8 consumes 13 percent less fuel than the Boeing 747-400. Lufthansa has ordered20 Boeing 747-8s, which are due for delivery from thebeginning of 2012 through to mid-2015, and also has optionson further 20 aircrafts.

AIR FRANCE KLM,RESPONSIBLE LEADER INTRAVEL & LEISUREAIR FRANCE KLM has been recognized as the air transportleader for 2011 in the field of corporate social responsibilityfor the seventh time in a row and confirmed in the two DowJones Sustainability Indexes – DJSI World and DJSI Europe.Thanks to its performance, the Group is also leader of theentire “Transport and leisure” sector for the third time. Thisrecognition is awarded to the 19 most sustainable companiesworldwide, each in their own sector. In 2010-11, the Grouphas made progress in areas such as the development ofsustainable biofuels, the implementation of recyclinguniforms and meals trays served on board, as well assupporting several humanitarian projects.

HEALTHY FOOD ON-BOARDAMERICAN AIRLINESAmerican Airlines has enlisted the expertise of prominent,well-respected chefs to help define the direction of its in-flight food service. American Airlines plans meals accordingto the U.S. nutrition guide and offers a variety of vegetarianand meat dishes. For Delhi-bound flights, American Airlinesenlisted Vermilion Executive Chef Maneet Chauhan, alongwith American Airlines employees including flight attendantsand Gate Gourmet chefs including Marc Lopez, to develop amenu reflective of the culinary characteristics and exoticflavours commonly appreciated by Indian customers.American Airline also offers the following special dietarymeals: diabetic, gluten intolerant, vegetarian vegan; and,Vegetarian Hindu on Delhi flights. Special meals areavailable on Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snack and BreakfastSnack flights when ordered at least 24 hours in advance ofthe customer’s flight.

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Malaysia Airlinesintroduces Boeing777-200 to increasethe comfort levels forits customers. Theairlines aircraftoperations for itsDelhi - Kuala Lumpurevening flight iseffective fromSeptember 26 2011.

The Boeing 777-200 which has a to-tal capacity of 280 seats, compris-ing 35 seats in Golden Club Class(Business class) and 245 in Economy

class, will operate from New Delhi to KualaLumpur. Set to make travelling to Malaysiaand beyond more stylish, comfortable andenjoyable, clubbed with unmatched in-flightservice of MH – Malaysian Hospitality ensur-ing customers reach Malaysia relaxed andfresh for their leisure, business trips.

Malaysia Airlines Regional Senior VicePresident, South Asia, Mr. Azahar Hamidsaid, “The Boeing 777-200 with its custom-ized enhancements is an upgrading of ourproduct on the Delhi-Kuala Lumpur – one ofour most promising routes between Indiaand Malaysia”.

New features in business classThe Business Class seat design embodies thespirit of exclusivity and is uncompromisingin meeting the needs and comfort of passen-gers. Each seat has its own privacy shellwhich transforms into a more personalspace for work, play or relaxation. The anglelie-flat seat can be reclined and convertedinto a mini bed. The seat is longer, widerand ergonomically designed to accommo-date passengers of varying sizes. The seating

positions are electrically adjustable with pre-set buttons for convenience.

Other features and facilities include a lightpreset 10 minutes massage, an in-seat poweroutlet for PC and other personal electronicdevices, a 10.4-inch touch screen TV, satellitetelephone and LED reading light.

More comfort for economy classThe highlight of the Boeing 777-200 is the seatdesign in Economy class, which spells quality

MINI BEDS, FLAT SCREENS ONMALAYSIA AIRLINES’ BUSINESS CLASS

all the way featuring adjustable reclining posi-tions, footrest, lumbar support, headrest andretractable armrest. Other features of the air-craft includes within easy reach a 6.5-inchin-seat personal TV, individual overheadreading light and a coat hook for each seat.

Malaysia Airlines currently operates a totalof 40 flights to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia fromNew Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore andHyderabad. www.malaysiaairlines.com

by MANAVI SIDDHANTI

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AIRLINES & AIRPORTS FEATURE

LUXURY IN THE SKIES

BA FIRSTThe new cabin, with a £100 million price tag, is theultimate in luxury and is being rolled out across the

British Airways fleet. With a 90 year long heritage, theairline claims to have reached a new milestone for

its passengers. Go Now finds out about the comfort &privacy on-board British Airways’ First Class.

T o produce the first new experi-ence, the airline’s in-house teamcollaborated with design firmTangerine to reassert luxury in

travel and accommodate 14 premium pas-sengers in premium simplicity.

Cabin, comfort and seatingThe cabin drawing on the airline’s heritageavoids ostentatious gadgets and gimmicks andfocuses instead on simplicity and quality. Aftercarefully working on the layout, the suite at 31inches across and is 12 inches wider than of-fered, maintaining the herring bone structure.

The seats recline a full 180 degrees into a fulllie flat bed position. Every cabin has a 15"screen with AVOD, USB charging point and anRCA jack. Each seat has a unique frosted pri-vacy screen that can be activated with a onetouch button for instant privacy.

“Our experience and skills” says JudyJarvis, Regional Commercial Manager, SouthAsia, British Airways PLC “have produced abed that is up to 60 per cent wider at theshoulders than the previous version”. Thebed also uses the latest technology with asprung diaphragm, rather than the tradi-tional layer of foam on a metal base,

significantly increasing levels of comfort.The suite control unit makes moving the bedextremely smooth and simple, with threepre-defined positions: fully upright, taxi,take-off and landing, and fully flat.

Different hues, varying moodsComfort extends beyond the physical seatwith new lighting that will change through-out the flight to create a different mooddepending on the time of day. The newcabin draws on the colors and fabrics of se-nior ranking British naval officers’ uniforms,known as Naval Barathea.

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Business en-route BAAlong with the main table, a side table hasbeen introduced to the arm of the suite forcustomers who want to continue workingwhilst they snack. The main table can alsobe folded in half to become a writing deskcomplete with leather trim. The Concorderoom houses a dedicated concierge deskthat enables all sorts of bookings, a discreetboardroom that enables customers to con-duct meetings, and a Work & EntertainmentZone that provides free internet access andexpansive download content.

A la carte dining, flexi hours“British Airways new menu is heavily inspiredby the Heston Blumenthal partnership”, saysJarvis, “following British Airways” challenge tocelebrity chef Heston Blumenthal to create theultimate in-flight dish.” Breakfast is a traditionalEnglish cooked breakfast, bacon rolls or forthose looking for a lighter option, a bakery se-lection, fruit juices, smoothies, yoghurts andcereals. The Afternoon Tea service is inspiredby the iconic London hotel, The Dorchester.

The dining experience will begin with anamuse bouche, in the style of top restaurants.

The cabin drawing on the airline’sheritage avoids ostentatious gadgetsand gimmicks and focuses insteadon simplicity and quality. Aftercarefully working on the layout, thesuite at 31 inches across and is 12inches wider than offered,maintaining the herring bonestructure. The seats recline a full180 degrees into a full lie flat bedposition. Every cabin has a 15"screen with AVOD, USB chargingpoint and an RCA jack. Each seathas a unique frosted privacy screenthat can be activated with a onetouch button for instant privacy.

A la carte dining follows and customers canenjoy a formal meal service. White linen table-cloths and fine bone china set the scene fora menu of British classics and regionaldishes on specific routings. “Customers whowould just like a snack”, continues Jarvis“can choose a more informal a la carte ser-vice. There is even a bistro selection, shouldthey fancy something a little lighter.” Most ofthe cuisines offered on board are extremelywell accepted and pleasing to cosmopolitanIndian travellers.

Customised kits for passengersThe iconic Anya Hindmarch wash bags arefilled with D.R. Harris & Co. productsincluding a facial cleanser, skin tonic,moisturiser and eye gel amongst others. Apopular sleeper suit remains a stapleoffering and a soft wool-rich day wrap isprovided for added comfort and warmth. Aturndown service is offered by cabin crewwho will lay out a 200-thread count Egyptiancotton mattress accompanied by a400-thread count duvet and pillow.www.britishairways.com

by MANAVI SIDDHANTI


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Arriving 4 hours before interna-tional departure has now become a bad dream from thepast. For those whose jobs

makes it quintessential to fly frequently,would find their lives more comfortable withthe introduction of this feature at some ofthe busiest airport terminals in Europe. Auto-mated check-ins’ seem to have become theneed of the hour with travellers demandingmore flexibility, choice and control in theirlives. In an age when business travel isemerging as a separate sector, a few of thebusiest departure terminals ask for minimaltime check-in process.

Lufthansa’s self service atMunich airportLufthansa’s self-service automation programseems to be a pioneer in this field. The one-

stop check-in for travellers is tailor-made forthose who want to get to the plane as quicklyas possible, security checks notwithstanding.Taking innovation a step further, Lufthansahas also started to automatically check pass-ports, using systems that can read the barcodes or magnetic stripes on passports, atsome major airports like the Munich Airport,Franz Josef Strauss International Airport.

Self bag drop terminalsTo use the new service, passengers must bein possession of a boarding pass with a barcode – either in the form of a paper ticket oran electronic ticket. The bar code allocatesthe baggage to the flight booked by the pas-senger, who then receives a baggage tag thatcan be fastened easily to the bag that is beingchecked in. Finally, all the passenger has todo is activate the conveyor belt, which then

transports the bag to the airport’s baggagehandling facility.

Lufthansa app for IpadAn interactive world map for users to finger-tap intuitively, one can explore the entireLufthansa route network: The departure anddestination airport are simply zoomed-in forthe user to select a flight. The map shows therequested route, making flight booking orflight planning intuitive, easy and fast. Famil-iar functions – “Check-in”, “Miles & MoreMileage Account” and “My Flight Bookings”– are all within easy access on the navigationbar. The destinations are graphically illus-trated and accompanied by exclusive andunusual travel information.

User friendly check insThe first time someone uses an automaticcheck-in at an airport like Heathrow it seemslike no one is in charge, and everyone knowswhat to do except you but that is only untilyou have experimented with the system. If youwalk through it once it would seem moreconvenient and time saving. The check-inkiosks might look daunting but they can makelife simple by just following these simple steps:

STEP 1. To begin an airport check-in,press the Start button on the kiosk screen.

STEP 2. Find your itinerary by scanningthe barcode of your printed itinerary orboarding pass. You can also insert your creditcard or SkyMiles card or enter your SkyMilesnumber, confirmation number, or ticket num-ber. (And a small tip: Any credit card will doas long as it has your name). However, if youhave a booking reference number instead ofthe printed itinerary then the machine will beprogrammed to ask for that.

STEP 3. Select the passenger name, enterthe number of bags that are being checked-in, and make any changes to your itinerary (ifrequired). Most airlines have strict and clearguidelines of the weight of the baggage thatone is allowed on that air bus.

STEP 4. Take the printed boardingpasses and any receipts needed for records.

STEP 5. The checked bags will nowneed to be dropped at the nearest countermarked “Baggage Drop-off” (marked by ared Baggage Drop sign) and then one canproceed towards security. You have success-fully checked-in, assured of being called onby the airline staff at closing the gates.www.munich-airport.com

by ROLI MAHAJAN and MANAVI SIDDHANTI

AUTOMATIC CHECK-INS:A GIANT LEAP FORWARDFor hassle free commutes, Europe’s biggest airportshave opted for automated check ins. With minimalinterference from airport officials, Go Now finds outhow it in works on Munich International Airport.


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After a seven hour journey fromMumbai, a super smooth de-scent into Istanbul unveiled apanorama of towering minarets

and an aerial view of the Bosporus strait, asI stepped into the Atatürk International Air-port. Devouring the fragrance of freshBaklawa around cafes serving traditionalTurkish delights and listening to musicpieces by Ashik Mahzuni Sherif andTamburi Cemil Bey re-assert the ideal Turk-ish mood. Istanbul’s is probably one of thefew airports in the world that bares the markof the country’s authentic culture within itsparameters. Be it the ice-cream vendors inbright red Fez caps or the ‘Old Bazaar’ withendless varieties of traditional souvenirs, is asheer kaleidoscope of colors.

Luxury business lounge: TurkHava YollariRated as Europe’s No.1 airline, Turk HavaYollari extends its legendary hospitality toguests in the air and on ground throughwhat is known as one of the world’s finestluxury lounges. The contemporary Turkishstyle interiors radiate warmth and comfort

The climax of a super-smooth Business Classexperience extends to Atatürk International

Airport’s luxury lounge – Turk Hava Yollari Go Nowrelives privileged Turkish hospitality at Istanbul.

LUXURY ATTURK HAVA YOLLARI


AIRPORT LOUNGE,ISTANBUL

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factfile• Turkish Airlines Turk Hava Yollari hasdirect non-stop flights to Istanbul andconnecting flights to several destinationsacross the globe.• Turkish Airlines has been rated Europe’sNo.1 Airline, renowned for its efficiency,in-flight hospitality and dining and itsBusiness Class services.www.ataturkairport.comwww.turkishairlines.com

Equipped with fully furnishedluxury suites and four showerrooms, Business Class, Elite, ElitePlus or Star Alliance Gold memberguests with 4 to 7 hours in transitcan freshen up and catch up on themuch needed rest. For the latestnews updates, the BusinessLounge offers a television areawhere international guests canwatch the latest news in severallanguages through headphonesconnected to the television setsand also surf a wide range ofvaried channels or even avail offree internet access at thecyber section.

collection and a pool table is ready forthose waiting in transit.

Elaborate eatery delightsA buffet breakfast from 5 to 11 am, lunchfrom 11 to 2pm, a soiree of mouth-wateringdesserts from 2-6pm followed by dinner arenothing short of gourmet treats. The Mezeplatter, Turkish flat bread pizza and Pitabread by Chef Fatih at the Business Loungeare pure culinary treats.

To do justice to your sweet tooth, aViennese style Demel counter reminiscentof a typical Austrian café offers sinful des-serts ranging from sought-after TurkishBaklavas to Austrian varieties.

To uplift the senses, an exquisitely de-signed Piano Bar offers more than liltingbackground music while you wine anddine. Listening to some meditative rendi-tions on the legendary ‘Feurich’, the bar ina 150 year-old tree takes you into a worldof its own. The all-time Serafin Merlot2009, Turkish Kavakl, Bogazkere andOkuzgozu are some of the labels presentin the prized selection truly honorsthe palate.

Massage center and kidsplay paradiseApart from the charming waitresses unmatchedin their courtesies, one can also spot a spir-ited massage therapist waiting to attend toyour muscles with some relaxing treatment.“A long flight can take a toll on your hamstrings,deltoids and neck muscles” he smiles, work-ing his sturdy fingers on my tired shoulders!

A colorful kids section with bright carica-tures and interesting toys is a kiddiesparadise. One can find children frolicking atthe Curio City as their parents unwind, pre-paring for the onward journey.

by KRISHNARAJ IYENGAR

and a touch of subtle class as you relax overa glass of local wine. Equipped with fully fur-nished luxury suites and four shower rooms,Business Class, Elite, Elite Plus or Star Alli-ance Gold member guests with 4 to 7 hoursin transit can freshen up and catch up onthe much needed rest.

For the latest news updates, the BusinessLounge offers a television area where inter-national guests can watch the latest newsin several languages through headphonesconnected to the television sets and alsosurf a wide range of varied channels oreven avail of free internet access at thecyber section. A library housing a fine book


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Once known as the Desert Hot Springs Motel, Hotel Lautneris a stunning modern day oasis in the desert. Built in 1947 byfamed modernist architect John Lautner, the property wasbought by Tracy Beckmann of Tracy Beckman Design andfurniture designer Ryan Trowbridge of Brown + Trowbridgewho spent 3 years on its meticulous renovation. Open to thepublic this September, Hotel Lautner features four distinctlydesigned interlocking suites with top-shelf features, vintagemodern furniture, luxurious baths, contemporary kitchens,private gardens, relaxing spa pool and outdoor lounge areas.Introductory rate: starting Rs.10,000 on weekdays, Rs.15,000on weekends. Tax not included.For more [email protected]

STAY ONE MORE NIGHTAT THE NAM HAI, VIETNAMResting on the pristine Hoi An beach, near the ancienttrading port of Hoi An in Vietnam, The Nam Hai is a luxuryresort that offers unobstructed ocean views. The resort thatfeatures 60 one bedroom villas and 40 pool villas announcesa Stay one more night at The Nam Hai package by which youpay for two nights and stay an extra night. Guests can choosefrom the one bedroom to five bedroom pool villas, each withits own landscaped gardens and views of the East Sea andCham Islands. A 2 Night/3 Day stay for a couple is from Rs.53,286 to Rs. 2,65,540. Offervalid till December 31, 2011. For details:[email protected]

Amari Coral Beach Phuket,a paradise on earth promisesbeauty, serenity andturquoise waters with trueAsian hospitality. Nestled onthe secluded headlandof Phuket’s most popularbeach, and surrounded by68 acres of forest, the resortoffers spectacular views ofthe picturesque bay andworld renowned diving sites.On offer are three packages:Phuket Escape Package atRs 30,029 includes 4 nightsin Superior Room includingbreakfast, roundtrip airporttransfers, Phuket Sun KissPackage – 90 Minutes, 20%spa discount, fruit andflowers in room, 20%laundry service discount.Amari Spa PackageRs 35,419 includes 3 nightsin Superior Room includingbreakfast 2.5 hours SeaBreeze Package, one setmenu dinner at Rim TalayRestaurant, fruit and flowersin room, roundtrip airporttransfers, 20% spa discount.Amari Romance Packageat Rs 40,919 includes 3nights in Superior Roomincluding breakfast 2.5hours Sea Breeze Package,fruit and flowers in room,roundtrip airport transfers,

TRAVEL BUZZ

PARADISE ON EARTHAT AMARI PHUKET

free honeymoon cake inroom, a romantic breakfastin room, sparkling wine inroom and romantic dinner.

All packages are valid untilDecember 23, 2011.For more:www.amari.com

AN ICONIC DESERTHIDEAWAY

A DISCOVERY TOUROF MACAOThe Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel offers a specialDiwali Package exclusively for residents of Indiaarriving between October 9 and November 30, 2011.The promotional package includes accommodation,meals, transportation, shopping, entertainment, andsightseeing. Two nights of accommodation for two willbe provided at the lavish Royale Suite of The VenetianMacao which features the world’s largest casino, witha massive gaming space of over 50,000 square meters.The package also includes complimentary one-wayferry tickets for two from Macao to Hong Kong, a half-day Discovery Tour of Macao. The package starts fromRs 22,000 per couple for two nights whereas children’srates start from Rs 1,200 per child.Email: room.reservations@ venetian.com.mo

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TRAVEL BUZZ

A DELIGHTFULAUTUMN IN PRAGUEConsidered a Golden City, Prague has ample charms thatinclude stunning architecture, wonderful music and art, cosycafés and stylish restaurants, not to mention the MandarinOriental’s fabulous,award-winning Spa,restaurant and bar.This autumnMandarin Oriental,Prague announces aunique doubledelight offer. If youbook a Deluxeterrace or Premierroom now through25th December2011, they will upgrade your accommodations by twocategories to a Junior or Deluxe Suite.Phone: +420 233 088 888Email: [email protected]

A LAVAUX WINE PACKAGESitting on a ten-acre private garden with breathtaking viewsof Lake Geneva and the Alps beyond, Beau-Rivage Palace,Lausanne is a world of refinement and luxury. The spectacularhotel located five minutes from the city center and shoppingdistrict and a 30 minute drive from the Geneva airport is idealfor business or leisure. Currently on offer is a special LavauxWine Package that includes 2 nights accommodation, a glassof wine, buffet breakfast or continental breakfast, restaurantvoucher, visit to the oldest vineyard and free acess to the Spaand fitness centre.Valid till 30th November.Price: starting from Rs. 69,000Phone: 0091 22 6638 7261Email: [email protected];[email protected]

UNWIND IN THEMAGICAL ISLANDOF BALIThe Legian is an exclusive all suite luxuryresort set in tropical gardens offeringspectacular views of the Indian Ocean.Beautifully integrated with landscapedgardens and lotus ponds, The Legian boastsa range of luxurious options foraccommodation - from studio suites to oneand two bedroom suites and a beachhouse. While dining options offer Europeancuisines with an Asian influence andgourmet dinners, the Spa at The Legianprovides a sanctuary for healing traditionsand relaxation and guests can choose froma variety of activities such as private yachtcharter, deep sea diving, and more. A 2nights/3 days deal for a couple is betweenRs 52,800 to Rs.2,78,000 without taxes. Offervalid until December 31, 2011.For more: [email protected]

LUXURY SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARIIf you are keen to spot the Big Five, there’s nowhere better to do so than in South Africa’smost famous game reserve, the Kruger National Park, and the private reserves that hugits borders. Lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino can all be found, and highlyskilled and experienced rangers know just where to look. Bird life is prolific and forsheer variety of flora only the impenetrable Amazon rivals the species density to befound here. African Blue Sky specializes in tailor making Safaris to Southern Africawhere you can be assured of the ultimate vacation. Using extensive local knowledgeand expertise on African Safaris, African Blue Sky will ensure that a Safari to Africa willleave you with lasting memories of the wild and amazing land. For custom dealscontact: www.africa-safari-holidays.com/Luxury_safari.html

Compiled by ESTHER WILLIAMS

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LEADING HOTELSSPA ESCAPES

TRAVEL BUZZ

More than a discount on accommodation,come state of the art treatments in spaescapes all over the world. With a 30%discount on stay, luxury hotels now offerspa service getaways and experiences.

The TabacónGrand SpaThermal Resort,Costa RicaThe resort is in the world’smost beautiful locations –the thermal mineral springsset amidst the Costa Ricanrainforest at the foot of theArenal Volcano. Treatmentsare given in 11 open-airbungalows, all withJacuzzis, a fully equippedgym, outdoor manicure/pedicure areas, and anopen-air Yoga Center andAyurvedic focused spamenu. The wide range oftreatments and therapiesfeatures the Temazcalritual, a native purifyingand detoxifying ritualperformed in a sweat lodgeby a Shaman (native

doctor). Rates are startingfrom Rs. 19,000 per night,based on doubleoccupancy.www.LHW.com/tabacon

Fuchun Resort,Hangzhou, ChinaSituated in China's inlandlake region on a rollinghillside tea plantation, theFuchun Resort has anatural air of calm that’sreflected in its stellar spa.Inspired by the pristinesurrounding environment,treatments focus onspiritual as well as physicalwellness, witharomatherapy, shiatsu, taichi and morning sessionsof traditional Himalayanyoga on offer.Conceptualized and

Hôtel MajesticBarrière, CannesLocated on the CroisetteBoulevard, facing the sea,the Hôtel Majestic Barrièrein Cannes features the USpa Barrière; a haven ofwellbeing devoted to relax-ation, serenity and recharg-ing your mind and body.The spa is a modern andsophisticated source ofharmony and tranquility. Itoffers a range of personal-ized body and beauty treat-ments with four treatmentrooms and also includes ashower experience, sauna,steam room, relaxationroom and fitness hall. Ratesare starting from Rs. 17,000per night, based on doubleoccupancy.www.LHW.com/majesticca

developed exclusively for Fuchun Spa, the menufeatures a series of pampering treatments that utilizetraditional Chinese herbal elements including theresort's famed Longjing tea. Rates are starting fromRs. 24,000 per night, based on double occupancy.www.LHW.com/fuchun

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, MaldivesNestled in the one of the largest lagoons in theMaldives, it is a resort for romance and rejuvenation.Its Jiva Grande Spa offers contemporary techniquesblended with traditional Indian in the sanctuarypavilion, and has a yoga deck for sunrise practice.Healthy and organic dishes are served in thededicated spa restaurant. Rates are starting fromRs. 39,500 per night, based on double occupancy.www.LHW.com/tajmaldives

The Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort

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Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives

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The Netherlands Antilles – compris-ing Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao –lie in the far south of the warm

Caribbean Sea, just 30 kilometres off thecoast of Venezuela. Although the ABCmoniker suggests a neat little package,the three islands are in fact remarkablydifferent, each offering the sun-seekingisland hopper a unique experience.

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DUTCHCARIBBEAN

The ABC of the

WORLD TRAVELLER DESTINATION

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Mention the Caribbean and most imagine the islands, beaches inWest Indies or the ethnic sounds of rumba or salsa in Havana. ButHolland is certainly not what springs to mind. Yet, hard as it is to

believe, the Netherlands, too, laid claim to their own sliceof paradise in the times of colonial conquest.

rious display. The custom states that themore stones you can balance the morewishes you’re granted – but should the deli-cate tower fall, you’ll be left with nothing-somake sure you’ve got a steady hand.

With less than 20 per cent of the islandprotected from development, the EU-fundedArikok National Park is a great way to getacquainted with the island’s nature andwildlife- a half-day hike along the trails offerssome great photo opportunities.

The city of bustle: OrangestadThe capital Oranjestad is a colourful affair,with bright orange, blue, pink and yellowpainted buildings in its centre, and modernmalls where designer boutiques share retailspace with simpler shops selling souvenirs.The large marina is littered with impressiveyachts and sailboats, and also welcomeslarger cruise ships that dock on a regularbasis, constantly refreshing the island’s manyvisitors. Oranjestad is also where you’ll find themany glitzy casinos and nightclubs that keeppatrons entertained well into the early hours.

White water wonders: A for ArubaWith gorgeous, year-round weather, Aruba is a beach lovers paradise that offers water sports,vegas-style shows and relaxation.

With Aruba’s fan club including thelikes of Richard Gere, Tom Cruise

and John Travolta, the island has long beenpopular among vacationers especiallyAmericans who fly in from Miami and be-yond. Aruba is the smallest of the threeABCs, measuring just 33km long, and it’s easyto explore its various attractions by privatecar or by booking yourself onto one of themany tours that shuttle visitors to and fro.Rounding the tip of the island, Aruba’s famousbeaches appear one after the other: Arashi,Boca Catalina, Malmok, Palm Beach andEagle Beach. They are undeniably beautiful,with their divi-divi trees blown into twisted,contorted shapes by the coastal winds.

Wish rock garden & moreAlong the harsh north coast, where gentlewaves lapping at sandy beaches are re-placed with rocks and pounding surf, you’llfind the so-called ‘Wish Rock Garden’. As faras the eye can see locals have carefullyplaced small pyramids of stones piled ontop of each other, creating a wonderfully cu-

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Luxurious stay, American feelQuality, luxurious accommodation is easyto come by on the white sands of Aruba’sfamous Eagle Beach and Palm Beach.Choose from vast all-inclusive beachresorts that cater to your every need, or getcosy and romantic in one of the manysmaller boutique-style hotels popular withhoneymooners and those seeking a morerefined holiday experience. Austrian-owned Bucuti Beach Resort falls into thelatter category and offers stylish andcomfortable rooms just a stone’s throwfrom one of the island’s best beaches. Onecan watch the waves break on the soft,powdery sand from your private balconyor enjoy a local Balashi beer in theexcellent Pirate’s Nest restaurant as thesun sinks below the horizon.

While all this stateside attention hasgiven Aruba an unshakeable American feel,with the US dollar the preferred currencyand well-known American chain stores andeateries, the mix of American and Dutch in-fluences is intriguing.

WORLD TRAVELLER DESTINATION

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mice buzz

Ashort hour-long flight east takes youto Bonaire. There is a huge amount to

justify a visit to this stunningly beautiful rockin the ocean, but the stamp inked into yourpassport on arrival is worth it alone, with itsunique, eye-catching flamingo icon. Boo-merang- shaped Bonaire is the secondlargest of the three ABCs, yet it’s the leastpopulated and least developed, so makes foran entirely different experience compared toAruba. For one, you won’t find any trafficlights anywhere on the island and all build-ings are intentionally kept small andlow-rise.Snorkelling & diving havenBonaire is an absolute paradise for divers,snorkelers and nature and wildlife lovers –and that’s no exaggeration. The Bonaire Na-tional Marine Park, which all divers on theisland help fund through the compulsoryUS$10 fee, is often cited as one of the best inthe world, and its effectiveness is evidentfrom the first time you dunk your head un-der the beautifully clean, clear water.

You’re spoilt for choice: simply stroll intothe sea from almost any point on the island,and after just a few short steps you’ll en-

Blue Water Paradise: B for BonaireBonaire is known for its world class scuba diving, windsurfing,snorkelling, Kayaking with flamingos and indulge in tranquility.

Paradise for Snorkelling and Diving

Saltpans of Bonaire

counter the most amazing coral reef scenesof riotous colour and abundant life. Plus it’seasy to rent gear and organise your dives, asmost hotels boast their own dive centre. Justensure you follow the strict dos and don’ts -rules that apply in all waters off the island upto 60 metres deep, and which guarantee thereefs and marine life stay undamaged andabundant for years to come.Kayaking with flamingosEven if you’d rather stay above water, there’splenty to keep you occupied. Kayaking amongthe mangroves, which play such avital role in preserving the natural environ-ment, is a real highlight. Imagine paddlingthrough maze-like channels, dense mangroveson either side, or then suddenly emerging at awidening lagoon filled with pink flamingos,turquoise waves breaking on a reef in the dis-tance. If this doesn’t live up to your vision ofCaribbean paradise, nothing will.

As on Aruba, it’s best to hire your ownfour wheels if you’re keen to explore the is-land. Driving down to the southern tip ofBonaire, the important role that salt hasplayed and continues to play on the islandbecame clear. Saltpans stretch far and wide,

transforming the landscape into a shimmer-ing sea of white. It’s a curious thing to seethe giant pyramids of salt glistening in theheat of day, appearing almost as pure snow.Quaint hotels & resortsNeither will you find any tall buildings norwill you come across the usual list of big glo-bal hotel chains. Instead, the island’smultinational visitors can choose fromquaint hotels, lodges and some of theCaribbean’s best resorts, like the highly rec-ommended Harbour Village Beach Club.

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factfileHOW TO GET THEREThere are flights available from Mumbai,Ahmedabad and Bangalore to Amsterdamby Air India, Swiss International Airlines,Kingfisher, British Airways and VirginAtlantic.From there, Dutch airlines Martin Air(www.martinair.com) and KLM(www.klm.com) fly direct from Amsterdam’sSchipol Airport to Aruba and Curacao.Inter-island flights are operated byInsel Air (www.fly-inselair.com) andDutch Antilles Express (www.flydae.com).

WHERE TO STAY• Bucuti Beach Resort, Aruba.www.bucuti.com• Harbour Village Beach Club, Bonaire.www.harbourvillage.com• Renaissance Hotel, Curacao.www.marriott.co.uk/renaissance-hotel/travel.mi

FOR RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES• Catamaran snorkelling, Aruba.www.depalm.com• Mangrove kayaking, Bonaire.www.mangrovecenter.com• Diving at Captain Don’s Habitat,Bonaire. www.habitatbonaire.com• Eric’s ATV Adventures, Curacao.www.curacao-atv.comCuracao Dolphin Academy:www.dolphin-academy.com

FOR MORE INFORMATIONwww.aruba.com; www.curacao.com;www.tourismbonaire.com

The final stop on your island-hoppingtour of the ABCs is Curacao, the largest

of the three. It’s less than an hour’s flightfrom Bonaire, or you could always make theshort journey by boat. Curacao feels farmore like a living, breathing country in itsown right than its two sister islands. There’sindustry here, a population of almost150,000 and the capital, Willemstad, is a bus-tling, lively place, split into two parts –Punda and Otrobanda – by the large naturalharbour that so attracted the Dutch whenthey came here in the early 17th century. Itshistoric centre is colourful and could easilyhave been plucked from the canals ofAmsterdam, while its picturesque suburbsstretch far beyond in all directions.Capital life and recreational sportsThe capital itself is definitely worth a day’sexploration, the bustling Venezuelan float-ing market making an interesting stop asyou take in the surrounding architectureand soak up the carefree vibes. If it’s abeach holiday you’re after, rest assuredCuracao boasts its fair share of stunningsandy stretches, but really there’s far moreto this bustling island, which makes it ideal

for those who like to stay active and mix itup a little.

Active pursuits include an off-road tourof the island on an ATV quad bike withEric’s ATV Adventures. You can also try theCuracao Phoenix and let its crew sail youout to a beautiful dive or snorkelling spotclose to Caracas Bay on the southern shore.The clear waters and excellent visibility en-sure you’ll have plenty of sights to keep youbusy for hours.Angelica’s kitchen & moreAngelica’s Kitchen, on Hoogstraat inWillemstad, offers fun-filled Caribbean-in-spired cooking lessons in light, airysurroundings with a private garden. A half-day spent cooking and, more importantly,sampling regional delicacies accompaniedby lively local music is certainly a memo-rable experience and a good way to meetlocals and fellow holidaymakers alike.

Another worthwhile stop is the DinahVeeris Botanic and Historic Garden, a quiet,peaceful place where more than 300 herbspecies and trees – all of them traditionallybelieved to have healing properties.

Text & photographs by HFU REISENHOFER

Deep Blue Sea: C for CuracaoWith ruggedly beautiful landscape, Curacao provides an endlessbeauty of fun divers lane.

The capital of Willemstad

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WORLD TRAVELLER LUXURY

TROPICAL LUXURY, BROODINGPRIVACY AT ONE&ONLY

REETHI RAHC ontemporary design,

re-shaped isletAlong a six kilometres coastline,lies this 109 acre island which

was re-shaped and enlarged by DennistonInternational Architects to ensure maximumprivacy and exclusivity for guests. The aes-thetics of the island were maximised to offer134 villas and 12 perfect powder-soft whitesandy beaches- each one lying in a secludedcove. Guests of One&Only Reethi Rah arriveon the resort’s own yacht, and make theirway through a spectacular Reception, to betaken to their villas.

134 villas nestled in privacyThe villas at One&Only Reethi Rah are someof the most luxurious and spacious in the

Indian Ocean and take the concept of islandchic to new heights. There are 79 beach vil-las with large verandas and private poolsand 30 water villas with split level verandasand ocean hammocks on the deck for sunlazing. The island also has 6 duplex villasand 6 grand villas with spacious bedrooms,infinity pools overlooking the ocean. Eachvilla, whether on a private beach or sus-pended above the waters, is a totallyself-contained sanctuary. Made from Balanwood from the Malaysian part of Borneo,each villa is separated by vegetation to af-ford complete privacy.

Simple exteriors, flamboyantinteriorsJean Michel Gathy, Design Director, Denniston

Surrounded by thecrystal blue waters ofthe Indian Ocean, seton one of the largestislands in North Male,One&Only Reethi Rahlives up to itsnamesake, ‘BeautifulIsland’ in Dhivehi. Withspectacular scenery, itprovides luxuriousamenities andunprecedentedprivacy.

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Scenic Water Villa

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International Architects says, “I wanted therooms to be architecturally simple andblending into the island feel but create dra-matic interiors with an almost flamboyantfeeling of space, height and flair.” The décoris heavily influenced by Asian style, with theuse of strong vivid colours, mixed with tropi-cal materials and natural textures – teak,rattan, mahogany, coconut shell, and silk.The large bathrooms each have two vanitiesand an over-sized, custom-made terrazzobath tub is at the window, with views overthe Indian Ocean. The bathrooms also havewalk-in showers, which offer the option ofrainforest or power showers.

Varied choice, flexible diningFine dining, fusion cooking and the sheerenjoyment of food take on dining experiencesat One&Only Reethi Rah. “The whole con-cept is about total flexibility in being able toeat what you want, when you want it,” com-mented Mark Hehir, General Manager. “Thatdefines luxury to me.” The key is the quality

of the ingredients, which is why the Reethi RahTeam of Chefs focuses on the finest organicproduce and freshest fish from the IndianOcean – such as crayfish, tuna and snapper– for a consummate gourmet experience.

Main dining at reethi restaurantReethi Restaurant is the main dining lodgeof One&Only Reethi Rah and offers a theat-rical experience with spectacular settings,rich colours, and the ever-changing sceneryof the sky and ocean all around. The stylishpoolside bar, Rah Bar has been designed onthree levels, so that everyone can enjoyviews of the sea. Approached from the RahBar, guests pass a glass-fronted wine roomand a huge wall opening onto an Asiankitchen with two large woks, an impressiveBeijing duck roaster, a dim sum steamer anda specially built Tandoori oven. The moreconventional kitchen lies to the rear servingbreakfast, lunch and dinner serving contem-porary cuisines from the Mediterranean andthe Far East.

Tapasake and FandithaAn over-water restaurant on the western tipof the island, Tapasake is the ideal place tosavour delicious Japanese tapas and enjoythe freshest fish at the Sushi Bar. On thenorthernmost point of the island is Fanditha,an exotic beach restaurant and bar with car-pets in the sand, chill-out swing sofas,inviting day beds and giant cushions.Special evening events include catch-of-the-day feasts, lobster BBQs and full-moonbeach parties.

Tailored therapy at One&Onlyspa by EspaAn oasis of serenity surrounded by waterand lush vegetation, One&Only Spa byESPA offers pure relaxation and signaturewellness journeys. 8 luxurious treatment vil-las are each nestled beneath its ownthatched roof, uniquely designed to form aluxurious natural environment. Customizedtreatments are based on Ayurvedic tradi-tions infused with western luxuries. An

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all-encompassing experience with swirlingvitality pools, crystal steam rooms, saunasand stimulating ice fountains. Two over-water double treatment suites are anenticing retreat offering the ultimate per-sonal spa experience for a couple. A hairsalon and the celebrated Bastien Gonzalezpedicure and manicure studios provide ad-ditional facilities.

Multitude of recreational activitiesGuests have complimentary use of such facili-ties as canoes, kayaks and windsurfing. Theisland’s lagoon and house reef are home to ahuge variety of fish; snorkelers will seeturtles, Napoleon wrasses, white-tip sharks,butterfly fish, the ubiquitous tuna and manymore. The island is also blessed with someof the best diving sites with visibility ofaround 40 meters as the PADI-certified diveOne&Only spa by EspaOne&Only spa by Espa

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factfileHow to get thereMale, the capital of Maldives has theInternational airport. There are regularflights from Maldives to Colombo,Thiruvananthapuram, and Dubai. Maleairport is only 1 Km away from the maincity and can be reached by boats orseaplanes. No prior visa is required to enterthe Republic of Maldives. A 30-day visitorpermit will be granted upon arrival withPossession of a valid passport for at leastsix months and a valid return air ticket.Average cost for twoAccommodation for 2 at the One&OnlyReethi Rah, Maldives for period of Sept endis Rs. 46,100 per room per night.Ongoing packageStay 4, Pay 3 package includes 1 nightcomplimentary stay, breakfast for two andboat transfers. The rate is 10% commis-sionable to IATA affiliated travel agencies.For [email protected]

Custom made Terrazzo bath tub

centre offer excursions for all levels.Day-trips off the island include traditional

handline fishing aboard a Maldivian Dhoni,luxury cruising in a Catamaran or to go forprivate island picnics. Other water-basedsports that are available for a fee includebanana and tube rides, knee boarding, wa-ter-skiing, paragliding and deep-sea fishing.

Haute chic meets beach chicMerchandise on offer is from some of the

best known labels in fashion and includesbikinis from Brazil, special resort wear fromEuropean designers Missoni, and AntikBatik. Shoe Halston and Maloles, ChristianLouboutin, Anya Hindmarch havecreated exclusive lines for One&Only. Theboutique personnel provide a personalshopping service for guests wanting tochoose merchandise in the privacy of theirown villa.

by MANAVI SIDDHANTI

Exterior, Beach VillaExterior, Beach Villa

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WORLD TRAVELLER CHECK OUT

If you’re looking for a destination that can take your mind away fromthe woes of life in the city, head to Kani Lanka Resort near Kalutara inSri Lanka. Plush with necessities, the resort is nestled away in nature’sideal location for sun bathing, beach gazing and kayaking.

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NATURE’S HIDEAWAY TO UNWIND AND RELAX

KANI LANKANATURE’S HIDEAWAY TO UNWIND AND RELAX

KANI LANKA

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factfileHow to get thereFrom Colombo, Kani Lanka Resort is anhours’ drive whereas a two and a half hourdrive from the Colombo International Airport.

For reservations:Telephone +94 (112) 233215Email - [email protected]

Located on the south west coast of SriLanka, Kani Lanka Resort and Spa isabout two hours away from the In-ternational Airport. The resort that is

famous for its stunning location nestles in aunique habitat of lush greenery and the se-rene river, Kalu Ganga, barely 10 minutesaway from the historical town of Kalutara.Varied accommodationThe hotel offers 6 superior suites, 83 superiorrooms and 16 standard rooms with Wi-Fi fa-cility, and central air?conditioning. Facilitiesinclude bathrooms with bath tub and sepa-rate shower cubical with rain showers alongwith safe lockers, a stocked mini bar and aLCD TV with satellite channels.Theme nights at the Palm RestaurantAs far as food and beverage options go, theresort has two bars – Miridiya and KaradiyaBar to enjoy the beginnings of evening over-looking scenic delights, not to mention thespectacular sunsets. Kani Lanka’s main res-taurant- the Palm serves elaborate buffets

with sea food specials. Also available is CaféSaffron – ideal for outdoor dining with A lacarte menus.Recreational activitiesFor those who love the pristine waters, KaniLanka resort offers wind surfing, canoeing,kayaking and boat cruises. Excursions to thecity of Kalutara, Hikkaduwa, Galle and Unawa-tuna, Kandy, Sinharaja Rain Forest andRatnapura are available. Apart from weeklycultural Shows and music performances,Table Tennis, Billiard, Darts, Carom, Chess,Card Games, Volleyball, Beach Volleyballand Floodlit Tennis can also be indulged in.Kanilanka Spa by AmaanAt Amaan, the purpose is to help you relaxand become aware of yourself and mergewith nature, just as the river and the oceanblend together in harmony without a beginningor an end as in a perfect circle. A mini havenin nature’s best surroundings, the facility hascertified spa therapists and offers treatmentssuch as body wraps, ayurvedic therapies,slimming treatment, immune system boostersalong with facial and hair treatments.

by MANAVI SIDDHANTI

WORLD TRAVELLER CHECK OUT

travel and discover a sub-continenttravel and discover a sub-continenttravel and discover a sub-continenttravel and discover a sub-continenttravel and discover a sub-continent

• SAVOURINTERNATIONALEXPERIENCE AT BIALOUNGES• HOTELS CHECK-IN ATAHMEDABAD• JIVA BECOMES A ONE-STOP SHOP FORBENGALURU• ROYAL TREATMENT ATTHE IMPERIAL SALON

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Leather fashion brand Da Milano recently launched two ofits flagship stores at Mumbai airports, Domestic andChatrapati Shivaji International Airport. According to Mr.Sahil Malik, Managing Director, Da Milano “We are nowvisible at Mumbai and Delhi airports and in this financialyear we promise to come up with 10 new outlets acrossIndia.” Spanning 800 - 1000 sq. ft. area of each store, the retailarea features the latest Autumn Winter’11 Collection. Thestore provides consumers with a highly personalized way toshop by the latest trend and style. Da Milano has a plethoraof leather products and accessories which goes with urbanlifestyle and travel. www.damilano.com

AIRLINES & AIRPORTS BUZZ

The Number 1 Europeanairline in India, has takeninteractive mobile tech-nology to a new level withits exciting new game –‘the Lufthansa Park & Fly.’Developed in collaborationwith MRM Worldwide, thegame challenges players topark a Lufthansa A380 in itshangar using their mobilephones.Displayed on back to backscreens in malls across thethree cities, the gameprovides a visual spectacleto not only the thousands who will play it,but even to those who just witness it. Withvideo footage and superb graphics, playersexperience the thrill of maneuvering theaircraft with keys on their mobile phonesand get 2 minutes to accomplish the task.The game is expected to catch theimagination of the youth, the driving forcebehind the rapidly expanding Indiangaming industry. All players need to dial in

from their mobile phonesat the Lufthansa Park & FlyZones set up at malls toplay the game. With theimpressive visualsdisplayed on huge screenscontrolled by just theirmobile, the game willprovide a unique gamingexperience.Perks such as two BusinessClass tickets to the US onthe Lufthansa A380 arebeing given away to awinner in each city.“Lufthansa Park & Fly

allows players to experience the thrill ofmanoeuvring a commercial aircraft," saidMandeep Sharma, VP and GM of MRMWorldwide India, “and is guaranteed togenerate tremendous excitement with itsblend of fun with technology”.Launched on September 17 the LufthansaA380 Park & Fly game travels to Delhi,Mumbai and Bengaluru.www.lufthansa.com/in

FLY LUFTHANSA A380WITH YOUR CELL PHONE

DA MILANO FLAGSHIP STORESAT MUMBAI AIRPORTS

BMI LAUNCHESDIRECT FLIGHTSFROM AMRITSARTO LONDONstarting October 14, travel-lers from Amritsar can reachLondon in 12 hours withBritish Midland Internation-al. This flight will operate 3times a week is the onlydirect service to the UK viaAmritsar. Economy Classreturn fares start from Rs.38,091 including taxes. A mem-ber of Star Alliance, BMI isthe second largest airlineoperating from LondonHeathrow Airport. Service toand from Amritsar will beoperated on Airbus A330-200aircraft with a total of 232seats. This is further dividedinto 196 Economy classseats and 36 Business Classseats. In the journey, theflight is scheduled for a shortstopover in Kazakhastanwithout changing aircraft.www.flybmi.com

Largest online company, Expedia, Inc. joined hands withlow cost carrier, AirAsia, offering a complete range ofgreat value flights, hotels, and holiday options for Indiantravellers. As India’s online travel market has grownexponentially between 30%-40%, this joint venture focuseson travelling unique travel offers in least time.Cashing in on this, Expedia is focused to bring amazingvalue holidays with Air Asia’s compelling offers for airtravel. Combining together Expedia’s large hotel

inventory, Air Asia’s network across the region offersaffordable rates in this region. On the launch, ScottDurchslag, President, Expedia Worldwide said, “With thisJV we have yet again, redefined the Indian travellandscape to deliver to a ‘never before experience’ toSouth East Asia, at the click of a button.” With theconvenience of an online portal, a 3N/4D stay with returnfare will cost Rs. 17,340 to Phuket.For more: www.expedia.co.in and www.airasia.com

SE ASIA GETS CHEAPER FORINDIAN TRAVELLERS

compiled by MANAVI SIDDHANTI

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Comfortable setting, luxurious environs are a few prerequisites that helpBengaluru International Airport (BIA) stand out from other hubs in India.Apart from offering high-end services to a group of travellers, BIA’s lounges areideal for a busy traveller in transit.

With the technology advancement sprucing up at a fastpace, the aviation and travelindustry is fortunately not far

behind in terms of upgrading and bringingnew innovations. Thankfully, most of the air-ports across the globe boast of lounges thatooze sophistication and royalty to the core.Nestled in Devanahalli, BIA houses some ofthe breathtaking lounges in India. Apartfrom offering high-end services to a myriadgroup of travelers, these lounges are muchtalked about due to its décor that are taste-fully done up. They boast of world-classamenities like spas, gyms, showers, internetaccess, bar, private meeting rooms and more.

The Reserved Lounge,Check-in HallAs the name says it all, Reserved lounge isexclusively designed for the high-profile andimportant travelers. Situated past the eleva-tors at the check-in hall of the BengaluruInternational Airport, this 24/7 lounge is ac-cessible to both departing as well as arrivingguests. The lounge is fully equipped withluxurious loungers, single sofas, Wi-Fi facility,and an in-house pantry, restroom with showerfacility, television, and reading material. Tohold confidential meetings or relax, there isalso a separate private room. This space isoften teeming with MPs, chief secretaries, vis-iting dignitaries and other high-profile

AIRLINES & AIRPORTS LOUNGE

A LONG LOUNGE AFFAIR AT

BIAA LONG LOUNGE AFFAIR AT

BIA

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executives. Maintained and serviced by tenwell trained guest relations staff from BIAL,this lounge is a perfect blend of comfort andpeace. All the rooms of reserved lounge arewell-lit and teams faultlessly with the darkbrown sofas adorned with bright orange flo-ral patterns. Capable of accommodating 16individuals at a time, reserved lounge is trulyan epitome of luxury combined with cuttingedge interiors.

The Oberoi Lounge,International DeparturesThe warm interiors teamed with excellentguest services of Oberoi lounge is bound tocreate a lasting impression on the minds oftravellers. This plush and inviting executivelounge seeps exquisiteness in every inch. Tomatch up the ambience and sparkling floors,local history is captured in picture frames oflocated in and around Bangalore. The en-trance to the lounge lined with single sofas,colorful flowers and beige colored walls isimpressive. Catering to first and business classpassengers of international airlines, the Oberoilounge is remarkable in terms of services,ambience and comfort. Some of its featuresare an lazyboy chairs, exclusive showerroom, a dedicated bar and Wi-Fi access.

The Kingfisher Lounge,Domestic DeparturesBusiness tycoon and the ‘King of GoodTimes,’ Dr. Vijay Mallya is the man behindthe snazzy Kingfisher lounge. The seating,floors, lightings and paneling are vibrant, in-triguing and highlighted in its corporate redcolor. Premium class travelers – both busi-

ness and first class can access into this loungeand avail a range of services like high-speedbroadband Internet access, food and bever-age, library, communication and showerfacilities. Designed to cater to 70 businessclass and 20 first class travelers at any time,the lounge also houses a business centrecomplete with Apple desktops, scannersand printers. Those who like lazing away dis-creetly can head towards the individualbucket sofas. For informal discussions andstriking a conversation, are high bar stoolswith chic seats. The food and beverage ser-vices is have an array of choices available.

Air India Lounge, DomesticDeparturesAir India lounge is not just visually appeal-ing but also soothing to eyes. Launched inthe year 2009, this plush lounge is spaciousand has the capacity to accommodate 72

guests. The sparkling mosaic floor is a de-light to walk on and compliments well withthe whole ambience of the lounge. he ceil-ings are beautiful and fixed with low-voltagelight bulbs.

One can while away time peacefully ei-ther by lazing on the white sofas, listen tothe sounds of a rippling water fall nearby orcatch on the latest news while sipping achilled beverage. Televisions, reading mate-rials, access to Wi-Fi, and an in-house pantryare some of the available facilities. Air Indialounge is simple yet sophisticated and suitedperfectly for not just the elite business groupbut also for the frequent flyers.

by NIVEDITHA JAIN & MANAVI SIDDHANTI

Kingfisher Lounge

Kingfisher Lounge

Arrival Lounge

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EXPLORE THE ANDAMANSWITH SAROVAR PORTICOExperience nature’s bounty to the fullest, at thePeerless Sarovar Portico, Port Blair’s only beach resort.Located in the scenic Corbyn Cove, the hotel has 50

guest rooms and premiumcottages with privatebalconies offeringpicturesque views of theexpansive greenery around.Located within 8 kms fromthe airport and city centre,Peerless Sarovar Portico hasall modern amenities. Their

special package valid until 30th November includesairport transfers, local sightseeing, sound and lightshow at the cellular jail and entry to monuments. A 3Night/ 4 Day Package for two is available in Rs 23,999.Email [email protected]

A 16th century city in the heart of Rajasthan, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the AravalliMountains, Udaipur is immensely rich in heritage, culture and leisure.The stunning setting of The Leela Palace, Udaipur, guarantees a breathtaking view to itsdiscerning guests from its 72 rooms and 8 Suites. The Leela Palace Udaipur has lakeview andheritage rooms, luxury suites, duplex suites, royal suite and a maharaja suite, each of whichoffer luxurious comfort. Apart from 4 meeting rooms, the hotel offers 3 banquet halls- TheMewar Room 120 guests), the Marwar Room (100 guests) and the Royal Ballroom (200 guests).Diwali Specials includes stay, breakfast and dinner at lake view room with for Rs. 22,000 pernight and Heritage View Room for Rs.24,000. Package includes welcome drink on arrival, twoway airport transfers by luxury car, dinner for two at the Dining Room, sunrise and sunsetyoga. Rates are inclusive of all taxes and the offer stands till October 31, 2011.Email: [email protected]

LUXURIOUS GETAWAYSAT THE LEELA PALACE,

UDAIPUR

TAJ SAFARI’S SPECIALWINTER OFFER

Imagine waking up on a crisp winter morning with sun rayscutting through the morning mist when you catch the sightof a majestic tiger walking through the tall grass. You canexperience all that and more at the Taj Safari Wildlife lodges.Taj Safaris offers the legendary Taj hospitality and theexpertise of &Beyond, Africa’s leading Ecotourism Company,while exploring the wilderness at Kanha, Panna, Pench andBandhavgarh National Parks in Madhya Pradesh. Taj Safarisis a union of like-minded hospitality companies pooling vastresources and experience to build a circuit of extraordinarylodges in India’s renowned Tiger Reserves. For Madhu Kothi,Tola, Banjaar and Baghvan peak season asks for Rs.27,000 fortwo while Pashan costs Rs. 19,000 for two till November 30,2011. E-mail: [email protected]

If you are planning to watch live the Formula One Grand Prix, Glow Studios is the ideallocation to camp in. Located at Knowledge Park III, Glow Studios in Greater Noida has aspecial package valid from 24th October to 31st October which includes buffet breakfast fortwo, WI-FI in room, use of gym, newspapers, mineral water and coffee/tea. Glow Studios willalso provide shuttle service to and from F1 venue for your convenience.A Studio room costsRs 9,000 per night for single/double occupancy whereas a Grand Studios Room is for Rs.11,250 per night for single/double occupancy. For more: www.glowstudios.com

TRAVEL BUZZ

CATCH THEFORMULAONE GRANDPRIXAT GLOWSTUDIOS

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WEEKEND GETAWAYSAT THE DESERT RESORT,MANDAWASet against the land of Rajputs, their havelis and forts lies TheDesert Resort, Mandava in Rajasthan. The best place todiscover the legacy of Shekhawati is from the comfort ofCastle Mandawa, a fortress, now converted into a luxuriousheritage hotel. The cost of package for a couple for 2 nights/3days ranges from Rs 20, 000 to Rs 25,000 including all meals,camel ride once during the stay, unlimited use of pool, andindoor games. For more: www.mandawahotels.com

Set amidst serene surroundings, combining moderntouches and traditional charm, is the HeritageVillage Resort & Spa Manesar. The Rajasthani Havelistyle palatial resort promises to restore your spiritand the only pressure you feel is from the masseuseat the Spa. Spread across 12 acres of greenery, theresort has luxury rooms & suites built in four double-storeyed clusters or ‘Mohallas’ each interconnectedthrough open archways. Their all-inclusive one dayspa indulgence package comprises signaturetreatments for a couple which include massages,steam, sauna, scrub, reflexology and anaromatherapy couple bath and unlimited food,snacks in-between meals, in house beverages andentertainment activities for the whole family in Rs.11500 + taxes.Email: [email protected]

INDULGENT SPATREATMENTS AT SPA

ARUNA

If you’ve been dreaming of getting away from the regularDiwali celebrations, whisk away to one of these beachdestinations. Starting October 21st–31st 2011, the Diwalipackage assures royal extravagance for 3 nights and 4 days fora couple at Zuri White Sands Resorts & Casino and Zuri RetreatGoa and The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala, Resort and Spa.For Zuri White Sands and Resorts, Goa the offer includesaccommodation, hotel transfers, buffet breakfast, lunch anddinner, half day sightseeing, a 15% off on recreational use ofspa and free access to internet. Live entertainment, culturalshows are also included. Package rates are according tochoice of Garden view room (Rs.36,000), Premium Room (Rs.42,300) and Deluxe room (Rs. 45,400). Zuri Retreat, Goa offersthe same deal and also includes rangoli competition,

BEACH GETAWAYS AT ZURIRETREATS

RELAXING STAYAT THE RADISSON,SHIMLAIdeal for those who want to head to the hillsthis season, The Radisson in Shimla offers 2nights/3 days package includingaccommodation, welcome drinks, dailybreakfast and dinner, usage of recreationalfacilities with discount on other F&B services.Additional charges for children apply- the offeris valid till the end of October, 2011.Email: [email protected]

tambola amongst other attractions for Rs.18,000 per couple.Extra costs for children are application for both properties.The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala, Resort and Spa include a 2nights/ 3 day stay, buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, asunset cruise on Vembanad Lake and a complimentaryrecreational ritual. Package rates start from 26,000 for a

TRAVEL BUZZ

lagoon view room, Rs.34,200for a cottage and Rs. 65,000for a pool villa.www.thezurihotels.com

compiled byESTHER WILLIAMS

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NEW INDIANMENU ATJOLLYROGERS,GURGAONEnjoy a whole new Indianmenu at Jolly Rogers,

Gurgaon with over 16 food items being added to the list.Chef Dhiraj has creatively penned some of the bestIndian dishes such with Paneer lababdar, MushroomHara Pyaz, dal makhani, Aaloo makai seekh kebab andmeat options including Murg Makhani, Gosht Rogan JoshAjwaini Fish Tikka, or Chicken curry.For more, call 9810870773.

HALLOWEEN NIGHTAT URBAN PIND –THE URBAN BAR

The Goblins will be haunting, and the monsters willmash, it’s time to get ready for Halloween Bash only atthe Urban Pind - Urban Bar. Get Evil and wicked asyour favourite hangout transforms into a Wild andHaunted Halloween haven with Costume Party,Costume Stall, Halloween Body Art, Halloween Drinks,decorations, mummies at Urban Pind, Greater Kailashstarting 9 pm on October 31, 2011.

Inspired by the vintage lookof stately bars in Delhi, nU.Delhi QBA at Malcha Marg,Chanakyapuri fuses aunique look in one of it’s sixoutlets in New Delhi, withelements of a totally uniquelook, feel & experience. Onthe food platter, QBAprovides a vast selectionavailable from its grills withspecials Lamb chops, cheloKebabs, & grilled prawnsalong with Chicken tikka.

But the biggest attraction at nU Delhi QBA is their live band from Philippines, Big BandTheory. The all new 'nU.Delhi Big Band Theory' is an upscale, collaboration of Philippinesskilled musical persons working together with the sole intention to entertain. The band hailsfrom Davao, Philippines and comprises of 7 members performing an array of musicalselections ranging from the latest pop favorites to the classic treasured tunes from a widerange of genres. The nU.Delhi Big Band Theory is a representation of the highest quality inlive entertainment the Philippines has to offer coupled with talent, skill and musical precision,the band is versatile in Rock, Blues & Jazz.So catch them while you sip on the finest spirit selections available in town at 14/48, MalchaMarg Market, Chanakyapuri. For reservations, call 47378800.

ALL NIGHT MENU ATMOBIUS, HOTEL SAMRAT

FAT FREE FOODAT URBANPIND, GREATERKAILASHThis festive season, indulgeyour senses into yummyfood without thinking ofpile-on calories at UrbanPind and Urban Café (Khanmarket and Saket). Café’sgot something special for allthose health consciouspeople with an innovativetwist. Rush and grab thechef’s special fat-free andhealthy Exotic VegetablePenne Pasta with Olive oiland Cheese as no festivitycelebration is completewithout the yummy food onthe plate. Made from freshparsley, Mushroom,asparagus, baby corn, greenbeans and broccoli andgarnished with gratedParmesan Cheese will costyou between Rs.1500-2000for two.Valid all October, formore: 011-32514646

by MANAVI SIDDHANTI

For late nights and hectic schedules, Mobius offers a lavishmenu from 1 am till 6.30 am including The Mixed Meat Paella;“Zattar” Spiced Grilled Chicken; the Insanity Sandwich;Grilled Tiger Prawns, Roast Chicken Salad with Burnt Garlic& Balsamic. Vegetarian patrons can choose from The RisottoPan; The Greek-Salad; Wild Mushroom & Smoked SpinachLasagne; Grilled Zucchini & Asparagus –Fettucine cream ofmany peppers among others. Meal for two costs Rs.1200 plustaxes. For more: 011-24121841/42/43

DINING OUT BUZZ

NU DELHI QBA & BIGBAND THEORY

October 2011 GO NOW

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Aswift elevator ride transformsyour surroundings as the Sam-pan sits proudly on the rooftopthe Suryaa in a posh area of

South Delhi. While the dimmed city switchesto bright lights, you find your place at the re-opened restaurant, Sampan.

Majestic view, sophisticated decorDesigned by Minnie Kashyap, the ambienceof the restaurant instantly gauges its guest,enveloping you in the personal of a contem-porary setting. Comfortable couches, purplechandeliers and brocade lining are some ofthe highlights of the tasteful atmosphere.Apart from dining tables, the restaurant hasa lounge which faces the view of Lotustemple along with the cityscape. An openterrace for functions, a private dining roomto accommodate 17 and a tea room for 40

are also available in thiswide expanse.Authentic flavours,varied varietySampan’s food offeringsextend cuisine wise andnot by courses – consist-ing of Japanese, Chinese,Thai, Malay and Vietnam-ese delicacies to taste theauthentic flavours of Asia.The South-East Asian sec-tion offers lesser knownjewels from Myanmar likethe delicious Monhinga,Mandalay curries and thePanthé. The Thai selec-tion is extensive withrobust Massamans, the hung lay from northand the Penang style seafood and commer-cial styles from Bangkok. The Japaneseselection is an aesthetic collection of Cevichestyle Sashimi, Chirashi sushi, Hina MatsuriBentou, Tendon to a Macha-Misu. Apart froma teppan counter, the show kitchen has adumpling steamer, a duck rotisserie and alive sushi counter. The restaurant has a wellstocked bar with the finest selection of singlemalt whiskies in the capital. A separate col-umn for local dishes like Gobi Manchurianand Sarojini Nagar Dumplings catch the eye.Signature dishes and newexperimentationsAfter an introduction by Chef Rakesh Prasadand Shiladitya Dey, Assistant Manager whatfollowed was a cold selection challengingyour palate. Yum Ma Muang – a thai mangosalad and Some Tam Salad which was madeof spicy papaya and fox seeds were reallyexceptional.

Despite my lack of appreciation of Japa-nese food, Chef Rakesh insisted to includeTori Karage – delicious chunks of chickenserved with tonkatsu sauce along with woktossed pepper chicken – a dish for those

REVAMPED ‘SAMPAN’ NOWSERVES PAN-ASIAN DELIGHTSAfter an exhaustive renovation, the rooftop restaurant at TheSuryaa hotel re-launched this month. From a chinese cuisine,the restauran now boasts of pan-asian meals, sophisticatedinteriors and a friendly service.

factfileWhere: Sampan, Rooftop, The Suryaa,New Friends Colony, New Delhi-110025Cuisine: Pan AsianMeal for two: Rs 4000 plus taxes

For information/ reservation:011-26835070, 99996-21855Email: [email protected]

☛ Gou Tie – pan fried dumplings☛ Tea smoked tender lamb☛ The Suryaa Roll☛ Tori Karage☛ Thot Man Khao Phot☛ Chicken Mongol Kublai

recommends

ChefRakesh Prasad

who indulge in extreme herbs. A Shandongstyle tea smoked lamb was delicious whilesignature corn patties also called Thot ManKhao Phot were done to perfection.

The entrees included steam basa in blackbean sauce and my personal favourite-chicken mongol Kublai with mushrooms,scallions and peppers done in an iron wok.Signature dishes included Kaenu khiew mit-vegetables in Thai green curry along with ex-otic veggies and tofu in clay pot. Dessertincluded a platter a dark chocolate pastry,and an assortment of fruits.

The staff is well groomed, and friendly-tending to its guests with a knowledge oftheir elaborate menu.

by MANAVI SIDDHANTI

CHECK OUT FOOD

42


AHMEDABADA city on high growth trajectory

Call it the megacity effect. Brisk growth and robust economicdynamics are leading hoteliers to queue up to check

into the city with star-category projects.

CITY ANALYSIS

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Darius MerchantGM, THE GATEWAY HOTEL UMMED

In the last five years, what has happened in this marketis that if the supply has grown by 100%, demand hasgrown by only 50%. As a result, either the occupancylevels are stagnant or ARRs have dipped. Establishedplayers are not worried in the short term but it is adifficult scenario for new hotels coming in.

Ahmedabad is the largest inlandindustrial center and the secondlargest industrial center in westernIndia after Mumbai. The grossdomestic product of Ahmedabadmetro was estimated at $16 billion in2010. It is the largest supplier ofdenim and one of the largestexporters of gems and jewellery inthe country.

‘Manchester of India’, the seventh largestcity in India, the commercial capital ofGujarat – there are many ways to describeAhmedabad. But one thing is certain: it ison a high-paced growth trajectory. Whiletextiles and the garment industry continueto grow, the city is also a thriving center forchemicals, pharmaceuticals, petrochemi-cals and automobile industries.

The economics of the city are impres-sive. The remarkable infrastructure andindustrial development in and aroundAhmedabad is making it a major commer-cial hub in the Western region afterMumbai. It has more than 11 special eco-nomic zones (SEZs), 10 industrial parks,and about 12 industrial estates at variousstages of implementation.

That’s good news for hoteliers alreadypresent in the city as well as those eyeing apiece of this fast-growing pie. Last five yearshave seen over 10 four- and five-star hotelscome up in Ahmedabad. Another eight toten projects are in the offing. The newhotels that have come up recently includeSt Laurn, Courtyard by Marriott, CambayGrand, Metropole, Ramada Inn, SarovarPortico, Country Inn, Park Plaza, CambaySapphire and Royal Orchid. Aloft, CrownePlaza, Ista, The Fern, and Radisson are theones in the pipeline.

What’s driving visitors to the city?The government is aggressively wooinginvestors. Events like Vibrant Gujarat,seminars, and workshops have increasedtremendously and that is driving business.Further hotels have been getting around 12%business from meetings, incentives,conferences and exhibitions (MICE).

It is this industrial growth in and aroundthe city that is luring leading hospitalityplayers to extend their footprint in Gujarat’scommercial capital. “The opportunities inthe city are excellent. The business is

Nepal SinghGM, ROYAL ORCHID

Government policies are extremely hassle-free;it is very easy to get clearances. Also, there areregularly several events that attract business.For instance, IATO is coming up and there hasbeen a lot of planning in advance. This gives youa lot of confidence.

CITY ANALYSIS

44


Rajiv PrasharGM, HOTELS, DB HOSPITALITY (LE MERIDIEN)

As the supply increases in the city, there is arate war already happening and thecompetition is set to get intense. The roomrates have dropped by up to 30% since lastyear. There must be some benchmark tocheck a further fall in rates.

Vishal JamuarGM, PRIDE HOTEL

As of now the market is a 50:50 between being abuyers and sellers market. There is noimmediate fear of an over-supply simplybecause there is some kind of cautiousness. Alot of projects have been delayed as there isscarcity of funds so there will be a balance.

CITY ANALYSIS

increasing. The automobile sector isexpanding at a fast pace. Also, the financesector is getting very big here with GIFT(Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) citycoming up,” says Anirban Bhattacharya,Director (Sales & Marketing), St. LaurnHotels, one of the latest entrants in themarket.

The city has potential for attractingleisure tourists as well with its rich historyand culture. The government has beenactively promoting tourism with AmitabhBachchan’s campaign creating a buzz butthe city hasn’t benefitted too much.“Ahmedabad remains a business destinationeven though it is capable of drawing leisuretourists as well. We have initiated activities tointroduce our guests to the local culture,”says Rajiv Prashar, GM, Hotels, DB Hospitalitythat owns Le Meridien in Ahmedabad .

Demand-Supply SituationAt present, there are some 30 known hotels inthe city having around 2,500 rooms (350 ofthem being in premium category hotels). Bythe end of 2012, 15 additional hotels are ex-pected to come up in the city, taking thenumber of rooms in the region of 5,000.

While growth is steady, competition isintense, having triggered a price war in themarket. Experts see the price war gettingfiercer as new projects begin. “Ahmedabadwill see a situation similar to the oneexpected in the US and Bangkok in thecoming years. ARRs (average room rates)will go down further and the market will seean average of $60-100 room rates. Till aboutfour years ago, the average room rate was Rs8,000. Today it is down by at least 20-30%.Some properties offer as much as 40 per centdiscount on group bookings as compared tothe 20 % offered earlier,” says Somani.

Government policies here are hassle-free.That explains growing investor interest in themarket. Some hoteliers in the city feel thatthe government might be going overboardwith granting licenses as demand has keptpace though not at the same level.

Says Darius Merchant, GM, The GatewayHotel Ummed, Ahmedabad: “In the last fiveyears, what has happened in this market isthat if the supply has grown by 100%, de-mand has grown by only 50%. As a result,either the occupancy levels are stagnant orARRs have dipped. Established players arenot worried in the short term but it is a diffi-cult scenario for new hotels coming in.”

October 2011 GO NOW

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Narendra SomaniCMD, THE GRAND BHAGWATI GROUP

Ahmedabad will see a situation similar to the USand Bangkok in the coming years. ARRs will godown further and the market will see an averageof 60-100$ room rates. Till about four years agothe average room rate was Rs 8000. Today it isdown by at least 20-30%.

Hrishikesh JoshiGM, KEYS CAMA HOTEL

The biggest advantage of operating in Gujaratis the lack of political interference. Thegovernment is really doing a commendablejob. We have regular meetings with thegovernment, discussing issues and concerns.That gives you a lot of confidence.

CITY ANALYSIS

Economic ViabilityTill about five-seven years ago, the averageoccupancy rate in city hotels was 60-70%.Today, the city average is 55%. However,seen relatively with the significant growthin new supply in 2009-10, there hasn’t been asignificant impact on occupancy levels.According to a research study by HVS, thecity witnessed only a 7% decline in overalloccupancies. This means the strong demandgrowth in the market was able to support thenew supply entering the market. However,the new entrants in the market have adoptedaggressive pricing strategies, leading to adecline in average room rates of 16.6%. Thishas put a strain on margins.

Rajiv Prashar suggests a check on fallingrates by the industry to prevent a downfall.“As the supply increases in the city, there is aprice war already happening and the com-petition is set to get intense. The room rateshave dropped by up to 30% since last year.There must be some benchmark to check afurther fall in rates,” he says.

However, the situation in the short term isunder control at least for the establishedplayers in the market. Vishal Jamuar, GM,Pride Hotel, sums it aptly: “As of now themarket is a 50:50 between being a buyersand sellers market. There is no immediatefear of an over-supply simply because thereis some kind of cautiousness. A lot of projectshave been delayed as there is scarcity offunds so there will be a balance. The marginsare certainly getting thinner. New hotels arefinding it increasingly difficult to survive asROI is bound to take a lot of time.”

The UpsideThe state government’s outlook is one of thebiggest advantages hoteliers in the city have.“Government policies are extremely hassle-free; it is very easy to get clearances. Also,there are regularly several events that attractbusiness. For instance, IATO is coming upand there has been a lot of planning in ad-vance. This gives you a lot of confidence,”says Nepal Singh, GM, Royal Orchid.

Agrees Hrishikesh Joshi, GM, Keys CamaHotel, “The biggest advantage of operatingin Gujarat is the lack of political interfer-ence. The government is really doing acommendable job. We have regular meet-ings with the government discussing issuesand concerns. That gives you a lot of confi-dence.” Cama is one of the oldest hotels inthe city. The 50 year old hotel recently

46


Anirban BhattacharyaDIRECTOR (SALES & MARKETING), ST. LAURN HOTELS

The opportunities in the city are excellent. Thebusiness is increasing. The automobile sectoris expanding at a fast pace. Also, the financesector is also getting very big here with GIFT(Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) citycoming up.

Parul Thakur,GM, COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

It is best to adopt a wait and watch policy as ofnow. My optimism comes from the newerbusiness segments growing fast in the city.Pharma, textiles and automobile sectors arealready bringing in business and the Government isnow trying to push for IT/ITes as well.

CITY ANALYSIS

entered into a management contract withBerggruen Hotels and has been rechristenedas Keys Hotel Cama.

The ‘Dry Status’In spite of possessing a variety of tourist at-tractions such as wildlife, scenic beauty,pilgrimage centres, exotic traditional craftsand a varied cuisine, Gujarat ranks 7th interms of tourist arrivals in India. One of themajor reasons for that, according to hote-liers, is the state’s ‘dry status.’

Restricted liquor laws haven’t let MICEsegment bring in business as much as hote-liers would have liked to. Says NarendraSomani, President, Hotel & Restaurant Asso-ciation of Gujarat & CMD, The GrandBhagwati Group, “Ahmedabad could be atop MICE destination in the city if liquor lawsare relaxed. MICE, which is only 10-15% ofthe total business, at present will be a hugegrowth driver for a boom in business.”

However, Vipul Mittra, Principal Secretary,Tourism Department, says that it is not aserious hindrance and that tourists canconsume liquor; only that they aren’t wellinformed about the laws. “People are notwell educated about the issue. A tourist canget liquor with a permit. There are liquorshops in hotels like Taj and Fortune. It isalso available at the airport. ”

ChallengesShortage of skilled manpower is one ofthe serious challenges in the market. Surveysshow an immediate shortfall of 30-40% in thesupply of quality manpower. Consequently,the attrition rates are high in the city. “Itbecomes difficult to retain people whenevera new hotel comes up in the city. And there isa dearth of new talent as there are onlylimited hotel management institutes,” saysMerchant of Gateway Ummed Hotel.

With a limited pool of skilled workforcein the state, hotels have to bear higher costs.“Our labour costs have increased from 11%to about 17% in the last 2-3 years as there ismore demand and less supply of trainedmanpower,” says Jamuar of Pride Hotels.

The government says it is alreadylooking at improving the supply of trainedmanpower for this industry. It is workingtowards opening more hotel managementinstitutes in the state and has proposed tostart an institute of hospitality management(IHM) at Patan in North Gujarat soon. “Wehave received the proposal by the tourism

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Manoj SinghalMD, NEESA LEISURE LTD (THE CAMBAY GRAND)

New hotels coming in and increasingcompetition isn’t a cause for worry becauseinvestments made under the Vibrant Gujaratis said to drive growth in the tourismindustry in Gujarat, and it will attract morebusiness tourists.

Vipul Mittra, Principal Secretary, Tourismtalks about hospitality scene in AhmedabadQWe see an active promotion of

Gujarat Tourism with AmitabhBachchan’s campaign making waves.How has the campaign helpedattracting tourists?The Bachchan campaign has worked verywell in attracting tourists. Gujarat has seen18-20% growth in inflow of tourists sincelast year. Intriguingly, Gujaratis themselveswere not aware of several tourist places inGujarat. The campaign has increased theawareness. Rann of Kutch, for instance,saw a whooping increase in the number ofvisitors at the Rann Utsav. The work willsoon begin on phase-II of the campaignwhere Saputara will be one of the places tobe showcased. Also, we have taken anumber of other initiatives like promotingadventure, religious and beach tourism. Thestate Government has plans of developingits tourism hubs in a phased manner.

QWhat is your take on the hospitalitybusiness in Ahmedabad? Do you

think the market is heading towards anover-supply situation which will lead tosevere competition?Ahmedabad is a great business destination.

It saw an increase of 14% in tourist inflowlast year. So I’d say the hospitality biz isbuoyant. The demand is growing withseveral businesses coming into the state. Ifeel there are several hotels in the city thatare not being run well. For survival in thelong run, it is important for hotels to focuson service improvement, getting qualitymanpower and overall better management.

QAs you mentioned shortage ofskilled manpower is one of the key

challenges in the market. What is theGovernment doing to address that?The Government is looking at openingmore hotel management institutes in thestate and has proposed to start aninstitute of hospitality management (IHM)at Patan in North Gujarat soon. We havereceived the proposal by the tourismdepartment to develop an IHM at Patan. Itis in the process of being examined at themoment. It will be run by the PatanUniversity. At present, the state has oneIHM in Ahmedabad that is affiliated to theNational Council for Hotel Management.We have asked them to increase thenumber of seats.

QAnother issue that bothers hoteliersin the city is the ban on liquor. The

industry is of the view that there will betremendous increase in the business ifthe liquor laws are relaxed. Yourcomments?The problem is that people are not welleducated about the issue. A tourist can getliquor with a permit. There are liquor shopsin hotels like Taj and Fortune. It is alsoavailable at the airport. So there is no banin the strict sense of the word. However,the discussions are on for removal of banon liquor for tourists.

department to develop an IHM at Patan. Itis in the process of being examined at themoment,” says Vipul Mittra.

A Wait-and-Watch Situation AheadAt present demand is matching supply to agreat extent. Parul Thakur talks optimisticallywhen asked about the future outlook on thecity, “There is enough scope for everyone togrow right now. It is best to adopt a wait-and-watch policy as of now. My optimism comesfrom the newer business segments growingfast in the city. Pharma, textiles, and automo-bile sectors are already bringing in business

and the government is now trying to push forIT and ITes businesses as well. Nasscom hasregular events here and then there is GIFTcoming up. So there is no reason why onemust panic, at least in the short term.”

Manoj Singhal, MD, Neesa Leisure thatowns The Cambay Grand, echoes the samesentiment. “New hotels coming in andincreasing competition isn’t a cause forworry because investments made under theVibrant Gujarat is said to drive growth in thetourism industry in Gujarat, and it willattract more business tourists.”

by PURVA BHATIA

48


Snuggled cosily in the lower lobby ofthe Vivanta by Taj hotel, Bangalore,the location of the hotel in the heartof the city makes it a one-stop desti-

nation for those looking forward to rejuvenatethemselves and experience a haven of well-being. The lounge space is made of anearth-toned floor casting a spell of tranquil-ity. As one enters and gets seated, it doesn’ttake too long to realise the spa’s philosophyof personal attention to each of their guests.A special concoction Vishuddhi Chai madeout of jaggery tea with lime and a hint of ba-sil leaves is served to guests – this is vital toremove the toxins from the body, embarkingthe spa treatment.

There are a total of 4 spa treatment roomsbounty with amenities like relaxation areas,changing rooms for men and women, lockers

JIVAA ‘Spa’tacular

Experience in Bengaluru

Located in the heart of Bengaluru, Jiva Spa is not just a great space toindulge in luxurious treatments but also a visual delight that calms thesenses with its serene ambience and warm hospitality.

SPA CHECK OUT

50


A state of the art salon for men and women, The Imperial Salon has recentlyopened its doors to hotel guests and luxury seekers in the capital city. After its

success with the luxury spa, the Imperial Salon is ready to provide itscolonial interiors complemented with sophisticated technology

and a team of well trained professionals.

Exclusive grooming at the

IMPERIALSALON

The Imperial Salon is a part of theImperial Hotel, Delhi, but seems tobe an independent haven. A shortwalk from the hotel reception, an

underground glasshouse shines brightly,ushering one in a zone of tranquility withthe push of a door. While the spa waslaunched last year, the upscale salon for a

complete solution in hair therapy, skincareand make-up made its debut this year.

Mughal ambience, furnishedin MalettiDesigned by Delhi’s own Chandu Chadda,the Imperial Salon and Spa is distinguishedby high ceilings and expanse that follow theSufi philosophy. “Earlier, the salon was in-

side the hotel,” says Jacqualine Tara Herron,Director of the Imperial Spa and Salon. “Myjob was to conceptualize the spa and salonas a bigger project for hotel guests andluxury indulgers in the city.” The salon’s in-tention is keep the décor subtle andsoothing with finishing touches in marble.The rock is also used in water features along

WELLNESS CHECK OUT

October 2011 GO NOW

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imperial salon’s offersTHE BRIDE’S JOURNEYWith careful customisation, thepackage lasts four weeks tending tocareful and rigorous skin care, hairtherapy, enriching body treatments,and make-up till the wedding way.Rs 30,640.

PRE PARTY FIXThis includes a back treatment, ahair ritual and a makeover starting fromRs 6,000 with 20 per cent off.

IMPERIAL GLAMOURA package including one hair service,facial, and hand/foot care will be givena discount of 20 per cent.

with mini chandeliers that glitter over galler-ies and rooms – in consonence with theMughal theme. Paintings on silk have beenhandpicked from the hotel’s archive andframed in contemporary designs. This royalelegance continues in every aspect of thesoothing space - even its furniture. Thechairs are either handmade or have beenbrought from Udaipur. The equipment isfrom Maletti, an Italian brand known for sa-lon equipment including Jacuzzi pedicurechairs. Art and technology surely go to-gether under one roof.

Customised services, high endproductsA salon which aims at customized service forboth men and women, it employs 8 to 10trained professionals during business hours.The canopy-covered sub section for womenadds glamour with its well placed lighting.For all aspects of hair styling, hair therapy,bonding and colouring, the salon usesKerastase products only. For customized hairrituals, the hair spa only begins after a visualexamination of a guest’s hair through a cam-era. My personal experience of a signature

experience. The backwash area uses a moonlight and provides a quieter place for special-ized body and back treatments includingCitrus Drench and Collagen Quench amongstother options. They also serve as bride roomsfor a four-week bridal package in the weddingseason which now round the corner. Carefullychosen products for use also include Essie nailpolishes, Yves Saint Laurent and Krylon for du-rable make-up. The Imperial Salon has alsolaunched its range of beauty products underthe name Sufi. Some of these have been putup for retail as well. The salon also sells NaturaBisse products which have been a big hit withthe consumers.

“For the men’s section,” said Herron, “Iwanted the décor to resemble a retro barbershop in London with colours and masculinefurniture.” The salon provides basic haircare to hair rituals and treatments withKerastase, skin care by Natura Bisse andL’occitane shaves along with hand and footcare.

by MANAVI SIDDHANTI

ritual - nurturing and conditioning – lasted formore than 90 minutes. Apart from a memo-rable hair ritual, the salon promises aresult-oriented skin experience with NaturaBisse. “We use the best products in the salonand Natura Bisse gives us promising results inour signature facials-Oil Balancer, The Cureand Timeless Age,” says Herron.

I also opted to experience the Imperialpedicure, a Jacuzzi pedicure and a pamper-ing massage. It was, undoubtedly a relaxing

“The Imperial Salon’s luxeinteriors powered by exemplaryservices of handpicked highlyskilled stylists and hairdressers,makes it an opulent hair andcosmetic salon for men andwomen. It is divided into 4 lavishrooms which are for malegrooming, splendid backwash area,female grooming and two ultraluxurious and stunning cosmeticrooms. Contemporary cuts, stylesnail care and satiating beauty andhair treatments makes it a worldclass state-of-the art salon inthe city.”Vijay WanchooSenior Vice President & GeneralManager, The Imperial New Delhi

52


In the 80s this hotel made waves withboth the foreign tourists as well asIndian holiday makers. MughalWelcombreaks were a trendsetter for

Delhites in the offseason summer months.ITC Mughal ruled over the tourist market formore than a decade.

Business then began to go slow even asnew hotels sprung up. Two hotels made no-ticeable entries – Jaypee with its largeconvention centre and Oberoi’s Amarvilas,bringing with it a new level of upmarketluxury. All this while, the Mughal watched onsilently, even if somewhat helplessly.

But change was inevitable and a makeoverimminent. Two years ago, first came the spa,over 1,00,000 sq ft of covered area, boasting ofan unseen and unheard of aura and magic.

The Mughal spa has already won many ac-colades – it’s a good enough reason for youto plan a visit to Agra. In between also came anew conference centre with breakaway roomsthat can accommodate 800-1,000 delegates.

Now its new rooms and suites, new lobbyand superbly crafted restaurants and barhave been unveiled. For old timers, thechange is heralded with a new contempo-rary chic chandelier, bespokingly imposing– gone is the old chandelier, that had out-lived its charm. The lobby gates and doorsare driven by glass and natural light; theshopping arcade has moved out and givenway to an exclusive lounge for group check-in. The ‘Maikhana’ Bar at the lobby level ismodern and inviting.

The new suites are amazing in their

warmth, thought to detail, enclosedveranadahs and exclusive lap pools. The inte-riors are subtle with all the modern luxuries.

ITC Mughal has extensive lawns, huge out-doors for family activities and refreshingwalks. And before you ask about the swim-ming pool, the centrepiece of the hotel,encircled by rooms and suites, we couldn’tsee it as it was closed for renovation. Wegather it will open very soon, and sureenough, this too will be a stunner.

ITC Mughal is no longer a Sheraton; its nowLuxury Collection, one notch higher in thepecking order of the Starwood family. Today, itis a comprehensive resort for meetings, spaholidays and just chill out experiences, all inthe luxury space.

by NAVIN S BERRY

THE MUGHAL MAKEOVERWith new rooms and suites, extensive upgradation of the lobby, other

public areas and amenities, it is a resort worth rushing to.

HOTELS CHECK OUT

ITC Mughal is Top-end Luxury

all that connects with travel& tourism, encompassingthe larger visitor experience

• INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT TO DRIVE TOURISM IN PUNJAB• MADHYA PRADESH HIGHLIGHTS LITTLE-KNOWN DESTINATIONS• CHHATTISGARH FOCUSSES ON ECO-TOURISM POTENTIAL• WITNESS THE CHANGE IN COIMBATORE• INDIA CAN HAVE MORE HERITAGE HOTELS ONLY IF ...

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Tourism is a seamless experience that involves an entiregamut of services. The state is working towards this

end, developing a tourism friendly infrastructurethat will make Punjab a world class destination

TOURISM IN THE STATES

BRAND PUNJAB

W e understand that whileyou are developingPunjab comprehesively,your efforts are particu-

larly aimed at Amritsar, your gatewaycity and perhaps the core of DestinationPunjab. What efforts are you making todevelop Amritsar?Amritsar is a major destination for Punjab.The Darbar Sahib is not just for Sikhs but forpeople of all faiths. It is a place of pilgrimagefor all, just like one of the holy cities in theworld, cities like Jerusalem.

Our problem has been that the city hashad little infrastructure. We have neither hadthe desired connectivity, nor decent accom-modations in any of the star categories.

If you see the magnitude of the problem- an attraction like the Wagah Border getsover 10,000 to 15,000 visitors every day. It is aunique parade where the armies of twocountries come face to face in a daily ritual.Visitors come and witness a rare spectacleevery day, and we have not been able tocapitalise upon their visit. We want toconvert this experience into a business

He has youth, dynamism, educationand exposure. He comes through assuave, simple, and forceful andbelieves in what he is saying. Heunderstands the needs, the scope andpotential of tourism and is carefullydrawing up the seeds of a grandtourism plan. Go Now speaks toPunjab Deputy Chief Minister SukhbirSingh Badal. Excerpts...

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opportunity for tourism, by giving them morereasons to stay longer, to shop around,witness and experience more of theauthentic Punjab. Amritsar is a world famouscity. Our efforts are now on to make it aworld class destination.

To achieve this grand ambition, whathas been your strategy?We need planned investments in the stateand in each of the major cities. What wehave managed to do so far, is to create amore tourism infrastructure friendlyreputation. To create a more favourableenvironment where hoteliers will come,and they have started coming. Some of thebiggest names in the business of hotelieringare either already with us or underconstruction. In Amritsar, for instance,we already have some big names – Taj,Radisson, Marriott, and many more. Nearlyevery brand is rushing into Amritsar. Landhas become so expensive that buildinghotels may have lost its profitability. Wetherefore embarked upon a pro-activepolicy for hotels by auctioning sites basednot upon price but as a percentage ofrevenue.

Can hotels be trusted to pay on the ba-sis of revenue?Yes, times have changed and people havebecome more professional. And you have totrust people.

Apart from hotels, what else?A number of infrastructure projects have

been initiated. To improve transport withinthe city, we have tied up with BAA, for theirpod transport system. Tourism is not justabout airports and hotels, a number of ele-ments complement each other intoproviding a seamless experience.

The impressive Maharaja Ranjit SinghFort has been taken back from the Army -restoration is afoot, and we have involved theUNWTO for the project.

What steps have you taken to ensurebetter connectivity?We are a landlocked state and have beenexploring how we can attract investments.For this we also need access into the state.First of all, we need airports to get peopleinto the state. We now have five of them atBhatinda, Pathankot, Ludhiana, Mohali andAmritsar with the last two being interna-tional airports.

By road, plans are fast being

implemented to have 4-lane expresswaysthat connect major cities across the state. Intwo years we hope to finish this agenda. Inevery major city, again, we are introducingradio cabs, Mercedes and Volvo buses forpublic transport.

With regard to the state as a destinationfor visitors from overseas, how best doyou think we can get the required con-nectivity?I think states should be allowed to negotiatetheir own bilaterals with other countries. Veryoften, power play at various national levelscan inhibit capacity induction in terms offoreign airlines.

Within the country, we need to createmultiple options to facilitate travel. We needbullet trains, I don’t see why Amritsar andDelhi should not be covered within twohours. Let them put the tracks and let privatesector run the trains - we should be able toauction these services like they have abroad.I feel the government should not be in anybusiness at all.

We have some unique brands in states.Rajasthan is unique for its colour, forts

and palaces, Kerala for its backwatersand its beaches; what do you thinkBrand Punjab stands for?Ours is an agricultural state. Even though weconstitute some 2 to 3% of the total landarea of the country, we grow some 55% of thefood produce of India. We are known as thegranary of India.

We are also home to a proud Sikhheritage, the community and its associatedlifestyle. Brand Punjab is Sikh history, itsrugged and yet friendly and most hospitablepeople. We have traditional festivals thatcelebrate a most glorious history thatrepresents also the joy of living. Our cuisineis world famous.

Talking of economic levels, if you see thetwin cities of Ludhiana and Jullundur, apartfrom Delhi and Gurgaon, these are the mostprosperous cities in Northern India.

What do you plan to do to promoteBrand Punjab?These are being harnessed together into amore contemporary experience. Thesehave existed for generations and drawnpeople from far and wide. To develop them


“Land has become so expensivethat building hotels may have lostits profitability. We thereforeembarked upon a pro-activepolicy for hotels by auctioningsites based not upon price but asa percentage of revenue...I don’t see why Amritsar and Delhishould not be covered within twohours. Let them put the tracks andlet private sector run the trains -we should be able to auction theseservices like they have abroad.”

56


further we have been constrained byinsufficient infrastructure – our problemhas been just that.

We have plans to link the various takhts,including Darbar Sahib and Anandpur Sahib.We have started a tourist train that can givethe visitor glimpses of various shrines.

We are also looking at other brand at-tributes unique to us. Like a big emphasison rural sports. We have initiated RuralOlympics, with kabbadi as the main sport.Some 16 countries are playing later thismonth. Then we have the rural animalchampionships, where right from a dog to ahorse, various animals will participate – thisis another unique event. With all suchevents we have augmented and enhancedour own annual calendar.

In all these diversified efforts, where doyou see the Punjab Tourism story going?How does it all fit into one piece?Tourism wants a safe and secure environ-ment. It comes as a package that goesbeyond just a hotel, it envelopes an entirecity or state, as an experience.

We have to first create that experience,that surety. I have to first create the requisite

Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Governmentof Punjab resolutely wants to put Punjab as one of the topranking tourist destinations in the country. Besides ongo-ing infrastructure development projects such asconstruction of roads, airports and convention facilities,there are a series of steps that the State Government hasundertaken to promote tourism.

● Tourism infrastructure developmentAsian Development Bank has approved the Infrastructure Develop-ment Programme for Tourism in Punjab for Rs 398 crore over 10years in 2 phases. The project includes improvement of tourism in-frastructure in Amritsar and Mohali. The main objective is toprovide economic growth and livelihood opportunity for the localcommunity through tourism infrastructure development.

● Golden Temple plazaThe government envisions revitalizing the area around SriHarmandar Sahib (Golden Temple). The Corridor project around thecomplex started in 1994 and was divided into five phases. The firstthree were completed by 31st Dec 2000. It was in the fifth phase thatthe concept of Golden Temple Plaza was conceived and Rs 12.72crore was spent on land acquisition and shifting of shops.

● Heritage walk in AmritsarVisitors to Amritsar can now explore 450 years of history of the holycity through Heritage Walk organized by Punjab Heritage andTourism Promotion Board (PHTPB). The walk has been designedwith the help of a local historian. It touches a total of 17 stop pointsof religious and historical importance including sites like DarshanDeori, Qila Ahluwalia, Town Hall, Sangalwala Akhara andJallianwala Bagh, Crawling Street and Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Taksal.Similar walks in Patiala, Sultanpur Lodhi and Jullundur willcommence in 2011.

● State cultural heritage policyThe Government of Punjab has taken a unique initiative todevelop a State Cultural Heritage Policy to help preserve, manageand use its cultural heritage. A memorandum of understandingwas signed on 26th Feb 2011 under which UNESCO would givetechnical assistance to the state to develop the policy andstrategic frameworks, as well as the implementation strategy forprotection and conservation of its cultural resource. Themonuments and museums to be covered in the first phase havebeen identified and the proposal forwarded to GOI and PunjabGovt. The project is stated to be for a period of 18 monthscommencing from March 2011.

“Tourism wants a safe and secureenvironment. It comes as apackage that goes beyond just ahotel, it envelopes an entire city orstate, as an experience.We have to first create thatexperience, that surety. I have tofirst create the requisiteexperience in its totality and onlythen push the brand. I could notdo that before.”

Ingredients to Building Brand Punjab


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● Skill development in hospitalityPunjab leads in its effort to develop human resource in thehospitality sector vis-à-vis the other states. The Ministry of Tourismruns a 6 to 8 weeks programme – ‘Hunar Se Rozgar'- in severalcolleges. The partners include Chitkara School of Hospitality, DeshBhagat Institute of Hotel Management, City Institute of HotelManagement Jallandar, KC Institute of Hotel Management. Theministry has also sanctioned introduction of hospitality courses in 5colleges at Mohali, Amritsar, Bathinda, Ludhiana & Sangrur.

● Farm tourismVisitors to Punjab can experience rural/farm life as a part of FarmTourism wherein the visitors get to be a part of farming activities andgain knowledge on organic farming, floriculture, horticulture, naturalhealth management, animal breeding, horse breeding and muchmore. PHTPB had signed an MoU with Mahindra Home Staysrecently to market and sell the farm houses under its brand. The MoUwill help reach the product to a wider market. This will eventuallyhelp the farmhouse owners and bring money to the villages. Atpresent there are a total of 32 farm houses across Punjab.

● Tourist trainPunjab Tourism had initiated the 'Panj Takhat Tourist Train' in Dec2010. The first luxury train in Punjab, supported logistically byPHTPB was a huge success. Based on the successful running of thetrain, Punjab Tourism is planning a suitable model to run such trainon continuous basis in PPP mode.

● Heritage developmentPunjab Government has been allotted Rs 100 crore for heritage inthe 13th Finance Commission. Department of culture has selectedmonuments, museums, artifacts, archives etc where these funds willbe spent. The proposal has been sent to Finance Deptt. Punjab forforwarding it to GOI to get the funds for the first phase.

● Tour guides trainingPHTPB has entered into an agreement with IITTM, to provide a onemonth tour guide training. The course will provide students withtraining on basic tour guiding skills and related information;knowledge of local/regional tourism products; sensitization forresponsible tourism; and hands on tour guiding experience.Successful candidates will be awarded a certificate in state leveltour guiding for Punjab by IITTM and PHTPB that will entitle themto be considered by the State/UT governments for license.

● Launch of a statistics cellRecognising the need for tourism statistics and market research,

the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) in 2008 prepared a TourismDevelopment Master Plan. As a follow-up, PHTPB established theStatistics and Research Unit to facilitate tourism planning. The unithas prepared comprehensive lists of accommodation units,restaurants, travel agents, tour operators and tourist transportoperators. The procedure has enabled them to prepare: a HotelDirectory which currently lists 772 hotels; 320 tourist sites; andrecorded over one crore visitors to the state over the years.

experience in its totality and only then pushthe brand. I could not do that before.

It we are not ready with our infrastructure,pushing the brand before hand will result inadverse publicity and negate the very pur-pose that we have set out to achieve.

When will Brand Punjab take off?In another year and a half. We have com-pleted planning for the major infrastructuralprojects, plans are under implementation.

If all this takes that much time, it will beelection time again.That does not matter. Development is anongoing process. An election is never meantto come in the way of progress!

Where do you see India’s tourism effortgoing?In India, we have not created a favourableenvironment for tourism. We have not beenprojecting our country right. We have not ad-equately shown its positive side. Dubai andSingapore have done this so well. Ours is avast country and the branding of ‘IncredibleIndia’ has not happened the right way. ‘In-credible India’ has not showcased thediversity of the country. I liked the branding

of ‘Go Goa’, also of Kerala as ‘God’s OwnCountry’. India has to be more aggressiveand should be sold on the basis of packages.

Is this a failure of marketing?On the ground, I feel that traveller conve-niences have not been seen through.Somebody has to sit down and chalk out theprocess of a tourist arriving and goingthrough the entire experience. We have toensure it is seamless.

At the industry level, at the level of PPPin tourism, what would be your line ofapproach?Everything is marketing. I feel we have not

marketed the country right. We should beable to get the top ten stakeholders, and getthem to do a genuine and meaningful SWOTanalysis and then get on with the job. Weshould be able to identify countries withgrowth potential for us, give incentives to thetravel agents community.

What reason would you give for this de-lay or oversight?The fact is that at the national level, tour-ism and sports have never been given thepriority they deserve. The fact is that theperson with the maximum clout in govern-ment should be assigned both theseportfolios.

Should this then be the Prime Ministerhimself?Not really, as the Prime Minister is meant tobe busy with other things. The fact is thattourism also builds the country’s brand.That brand will help pull investments, im-prove levels of lifestyle, and the entirecountry benefits. Tourism is the best invest-ment we could have made, and for somereason we have remained shy of investinginto it.

by NAVIN S BERRY

“On the ground, I feel thattraveller conveniences have notbeen seen through. Somebodyhas to sit down and chalk out theprocess of a tourist arriving andgoing through the entireexperience. We have to ensure itis seamless.”


58


MADHYA PRADESHGears up to Claim its Share of Projected

Doubling of India’s Tourist ArrivalsThe state is on an overdrive to attract more touriststhrough print and television ads and is focusing onharnessing its little-known destinations.


“Madhya Pradesh is growingfabulously in tourism and wants tobe the finest, largest and thebiggest tourist state. We want to bethe tiger state. We have everythinghere, hill stations like Panchmarhi,historical monuments like Orchha,wildlife at the Satpura tiger reserveas well as religious tourism. Wealso have some of the best touristspots like Khajuraho, Bhimbetkaand Sanchi.”Tukojirao PuarTourism Minister, Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh has been con-sistently innovating, whether itbe creating new products orinventing some of the more

creative advertising campaigns for tourismin the country. Its television campaign, forinstance, has been artistically adopted evenfor mobile ringtones! It is also among thefirst states to have started celebrating theAnnual World Tourism Day every year. Thisyear was no exception.

With architecture, religion, history, wild-life and nature on its side, Madhya Pradeshis on an overdrive to showcase its prowessin tourism. This was amply demonstratedon the World Tourism Day on September27 when state Tourism Minister TukojiraoPuar said that Madhya Pradesh will soon

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SNAPSHOTSemerge as the best tourism state in thecountry.

The minister released three guide booksdevoted to different tourist destinations andtwo print advertisements. Puar said:“Madhya Pradesh is growing fabulously intourism and wants to be the finest, largestand the biggest tourist state. We want to bethe tiger state. We have everything here, hillstations like Panchmarhi, historical monu-ments like Orchha, wildlife at the Satpuratiger reserve as well as religious tourism.Some of the best tourist spots likeKhajuraho, Bhimbetka and Sanchi are inMadhya Pradesh.”

The minister said with all kinds of touristresources in the state, it only has to be pro-moted within India and then internationally.He said that in the coming days, tourism willbe the most efficient department that willearn the maximum revenue for the state.

Managing Director of Madhya PradeshTourism department, Pankaj Rag said thatIndia wants to double its share of interna-tional tourist arrivals and the state is workingtowards that end through aggressive market-ing and infrastructure development.Currently the state gets about 3.9 crore do-mestic tourists and 2.5 lakh internationaltourists.

Rag said that attention has been paid tothe development of lesser known tourist des-tinations located close to well-known touristplaces so that a tourist stays back for extradays. He added that connectivity is a bigproblem in bringing tourists to the state.Therefore, an air taxi link between Agra andKhajuraho is being established. Besides, thethree cities of Bhopal, Jabalpur and Indoretoo will be connected with flights.

Stressing on current efforts in marketingthe state, Rag said a tourism park is beingdeveloped near Khajuraho. The state has al-ready introduced caravan tourism, started aboat-ride and is now looking at private sec-tor investment through the PPP model. Hesaid: “As Madhya Pradesh has been afavourite destination for film makers, thestate is participating in a road show inMumbai in October.” The department is alsodeveloping new tourism circuits includingBundelkhand and Chambal.

The occasion also witnessed the givingaway awards for excellence in tourism tostakeholders both from the private sectorand those working for the government.

by RAHUL KUMAR

Himachal Pradesh to Open New Tourism CentresThe state cabinet has given its approval to a number of travel and tourism related mat-ters including opening up of new tourist information centres at Shimla, Solan, Nahanand Suket Fossil Park. The cabinet has also approved a proposal in which the IndianRailways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) will provide catering services atthe newly opened information centres.

The cabinet has also given approval for amending the river rafting rules 2005 toadopt new river rafting rules 2011. The state, which is famous for many adventure sportslike rock climbing, white water rafting, rappelling, skiing, zorbing, paragliding and oth-ers has witnessed accidents in the past. The new river rafting rules will ensure safety oftourists and will allow authorities to book the organizer in case of mishaps.

In other tourism related decisions, the cabinet also approved opening the Lahauland Spiti Valley for river rafting activities. In a bid to attract more tourists, the govern-ment is also strengthening infrastructure in small towns like Parwanoo, Hamirpur andUna by constructing bus stands and improving road connectivity.

Goa to Get New Tourism ComplexThe Goa government plans to build a new mega tourism complex to bring all stakehold-ers in the tourism sector under one roof. The Rs 30 crore project will be built at Pattowhich currently houses the state’s tourism department. The new complex will bring to-gether the Tourism Department, State Tourism Corporation, offices of travel agencies,tour operators, airline offices as well as the tourism boards of other states.

Even the office of the Union ministry of tourism will be located in the same complexwhich will provide all tourism related services, facilities, information to facilitate domes-tic and foreign tourists visiting the state. The project is estimated to cost Rs 30 crore andwill be undertaken by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC).

Karnataka Tourism Launches Jungle CampsKarnataka Tourism has launched a new programme for budget tourists, Jungle Campsand Trails (JCT) in the southern part of the state. With the launch of this programme,the department hopes to target the low-budget tourist interested in soaking in the natu-ral splendours of the state. The government already has another initiative, the JungleLodges and Resorts programme, which is aimed at the high-profile nature tourist. Thenatural tourist spots include forests, beaches, hill stations, rivers and wildlife sanctuar-ies as well as the elephant camp.

The JCT provides authentic eco-tourism experiences through jungle camps that of-fer visitors an opportunity to explore, experience and appreciate various wildernessareas spread across Karnataka. Each camp is uniquely situated in a different forest eco-system and provides a different ambience. The camps provide comfortableaccommodation and a number of eco activities among which are cave explorations,hornbill safari, butterfly trail, herbal trail, herpeto-trail, nature walks, machan night-outs,river rafting, forest treks, bird watching and boating.

Some of the JCT properties are the Sakrebyle Elephant Camp, Kulagi Timber TrailsCamp, Anshi Evergreen Camp, Gopinatham Country Camp, Bhagawati Herbal Camp,Seetanadi Herpeto Camp, Aanejhari Butterfly Camp, Muthodi Trogon Camp, CastleRock Adventure Club and also Jogimatti Nature Camp.

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CHHATTISGARHExperience the Joy of Discoveringthe New and the Unknown, is what

the State will Promote Soon


Chhattisgarh promoteseco-tourism throughrich bio-diversityhotspots, India’s oldesttribal communities andwildlife comparative toAfrica’s.

I n its promotional programmes, theChhattisgarh tourism tagline says ‘fullof surprises.’ It could not have beenmore apt, say state officials, for there

are things about the newly carved state thatwould pleasantly surprise anybody.

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Sahoo, adding that this has attracted consid-erable investment, leading to spurt inbusiness travel.

Training programmeThe Chhattisgarh Tourism Board recentlypartnered with the Kuoni Academy to im-part training to about 400 travel agents andtour operators. Aimed at increasing aware-ness about tourism opportunities in thestate, the training programme is being un-dertaken across nine cities in India–Delhi,Bangalore, Raipur, Kolkata, Mumbai,Ahmedabad, Vishakhapatnam, Nagpur, andHyderabad.

The first and foremost is that Naxal orMaoist militancy is not as damning for tour-ism as it might appear. Maoist activity afterall is limited to just 15 per cent of the state,said Sahoo. “Besides, extremists don’t targettourists. Anyway, we advise the visitors totake certain precautions.”

The new state is bullish on its tourismpotential and is leaving no stone unturnedto tap it. State officials are confident thattheir efforts will bear fruit.

by TEAM DI


“We get phone calls from foreigntourists who enquire about remoteplaces. They want to know if aparticular spot has mobileconnectivity. We nervously reply inthe negative, and they book forseven days and spend 15 days!”Subrat SahooSecretary, Chhattisgarh Tourism

“Our natural wonders and culturaltreasures are renowned throughout Indiaand the state is so large-the size of England-that it’s always peaceful and relaxing, nomatter how many visitors we have,” saidSubrat Sahoo, Secretary (Tourism, Culture,and Sports), and Managing Director,Chhattisgarh Tourism Board. In a recentinteraction with a group of select journalistsin New Delhi, he announced that a publicitycampaign would soon be launched.

A young state, it was referred as ‘DakshinKosala’ in ancient texts. Rich in mineral re-sources, it can boast of the country’s densestforests which cover 44 per cent of the state.Biodiversity is stupendous. One-third of thepopulation is tribal, leaving a unique impri-matur on the socio-cultural milieu.

Escape to the wildsThe state has attracted the tourists who justwant to escape the din of urban life. Sahooelaborated the type: “We get phone callsfrom foreign tourists who enquire about re-mote places. They want to know if aparticular spot has mobile connectivity. Wenervously reply in the negative, and theybook for seven days and spend 15 days!”

Chhattisgarh has reasons to promoteecotourism. It has the country’s largest wa-terfall, the world’s second most dense forestcover after Amazon, wildlife like Africa, alarge number of bio-diverse hot spots, andIndia’s oldest tribal community, saidChhattisgarh Tourism Development Corpora-tion Managing Director Tapesh Jha.

It will soon launch an integrated advertisingand marketing campaign, ‘I discovered…’which draws from the joy of experiencingthe new and the unknown. The six-monthcampaign worth Rs 7 crore will highlight thesplendors the state offers, said Jha.

Apart from picturesque landscapes, thestate offers a peek into the life of tribals.They are famous for their dances and music.But they are not a monolithic lot; there aredozens of ethnic minorities, some of thembeing the oldest indigenous people. In theBastar region, each has a distinctive cultureof its own-an entire set of spirits, deities,dance, music, costumes, and crafts.

Unique DussheraDusshera, the most important festival of theregion, is unique as it is more about thearea’s female deities than Lord Ram. GrandHindu traditions blend with local beliefs to

synthesize into a festival that lasts for 75days, the longest Dusshera in the world.

Chhattisgarh is also known for its archi-tecture, with monuments including templesand palaces. Bhoramdeo, Dantewada, Deepa-dih, Dongargarh, Jogibhatta, Rajim, Sirpur,Malhar, Sita Bhengra, and Sheorinarayan aremajor attractions.

Then there is Sirpur, which was exca-vated in the 1950s and sites dating back tothe seventh century A.D. were brought out.“Recently, another level, thought to be 2,000years old, has been found beneath the origi-nal,” said Sahoo.

With such a variegated mix of offerings,Chhattisgarh is zealously promoting tourism.It is taking its first steps in building the hospi-tality sector. It offers 200-300 rooms in starhotels and 3,000 rooms in all categories. Thegrowth rate, however, is impressive, therooms getting double in the last three to fouryears, said Jha.

The state government gives fiscal incentivesto hoteliers, but these come with conditions.

Chhattisgarh is the fastest growing state inthe country, which is power surplus andtherefore there is no load-shedding, claimed

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BUSINESS BRINGS CHANGE TO

COIMBATOREThe textile city till now, Coimbatore is adding muscle with rapidly

growing information technology, education, health and hospitality.

T he Manchester of south India,Coimbatore, is slowly shedding offits old image. The second-largestcity in Tamil Nadu is a hub of varied

businesses that include specialized health-care, IT and education apart from industrialunits and the manufacturing of automobileparts. There are a large number of unitswhich are 100 per cent export oriented. Allof these have turned the city into one of thetop ten fastest growing cities in India.

The General Manager of Aloft CoimbatoreSinganallur, Saurabh Mathur, says the city isbecoming cosmopolitan by the day becauseof the industry. “It is so not just because of thevarious communities like the Marwaris andPunjabis who are here because of businessbut also because the city has attracted manyprofessional people.” Professionals whoflock to the city include those working in thesoftware industry, the large hospitals andnumerous educational institutions.

That the city is on an overdrive can begauged from the fact that hotels are checkingin at a scorching pace. From just one upmar-ket hotel about a year back, the city now hasfour – The Residency Coimbatore, LeMeridien Coimbatore, Park Plaza and AloftCoimbatore Singanallur. Three of these havebeen commissioned in 2011 itself. From just

over a 100 rooms till last year, the city has allof a sudden got close to 600 rooms.

But Mathur disagrees that there is anovercrowding. “On the face of it, it mightseem like a possibility now but once the ITPark opens up, there will be a shortage ofhotels once again. The second IT park ofTamil Nadu is coming up at Coimbatore. Bythe way, there will be another top class hotel

in the city very soon.” An HVS report for2009-2010 on Coimbatore’s hotel industrysays, “Although historically Coimbatore hasbeen a stable market, the market dynamicsis expected to change with the addition ofbranded supply. The market occupanciesand average rates are expected to see a mar-ginal correction in the next two to threeyears but overall we anticipate steadygrowth for the city.”

The mainstay of Coimbatore has beenthe textile industry, which includes the yarn,knitting and dyeing units. But with the adventof industrial units, the two came together toform the textile machine manufacturing.

With such dynamism in the city, there is bigmovement of expatriates. Foreign designerswho visit the city for its textiles stay back forweeks at a stretch. Interestingly, HVS pointsout that Japan is a major feeder market forCoimbatore owing to visitations for the tex-tile manufacturing units.

The hotels find the city gifted for becominga MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences

and exhibitions) destination. Le MeridienCoimbatore, which recently had a soft launch,hosted a big medical conference by the As-sociation of Plastic Surgeons of India. Thegeneral manager of the hotel, Sanjay Gupta,says: “People were impressed with our facili-ties. Thanks to this conference, we got twomore bookings for medical conferences thisyear. Coimbatore has numerous large hospi-tals with up to 500 beds. It is the same witheducational institutes. There are five universi-ties here and many educational institutes havetie-ups with foreign universities. Internationalfaculty keeps visiting the city frequently.”

Having recognized the industrial poten-

DESTINATION BUSINESS

(HOTELS FIND THE CITY A PERFECT MICE DESTINATIONBECAUSE OF A LARGE CONCENTRATION OF SPECIALITYHOSPITALS AS WELL AS BIG EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS THATHOLD REGULAR INTERNATIONAL-LEVEL INTERACTIONS.

CODISSIA is one of the largestexhibition venues in South India

Air traffic to and from the city is increasing at a fast pace

October 2011 GO NOW

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tial of the region, the Central governmenttoo is now aiding the development of a com-mon physical Infrastructure for the Microand Small Enterprises. Units related to themanufacture of foundry engineering, pumpand motor parts will benefit from such de-velopment. The city also has one of thelargest trade fair centres called CODISSIAwhich can host fairly large exhibitions. Manyof the new hotels have come up close to theCODISSIA complex.

The Coimbatore airport sees nearly 40landings and take-offs every day, bringing invisitors from as far as Delhi, Mumbai, Hydera-bad, Bangalore, Chennai, Ahmedabad andeven Singapore and Sharjah. Though growthis visible, there are hurdles as well. Flight con-nectivity is still thought to be poor. Eventhough airlines have load, Coimbatore needsto be opened up to more international sectors.Passengers from the US have a number ofstopovers, of which at least one can be mini-mized if only a link to Dubai is opened up.Gupta says: “Coimbatore will be benefittedenormously with easy access to Europe andthe US if we are directly connected to Dubai.”

Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, the cityboasts of a breezy pleasant climate through-out the year. Tourists flock to the city not forits scenic charms but because it remains agateway destination. The city attracts touristsnot for itself but those who are headed to

the picturesque hill stations of Ooty andKodaikanal. From Coimbatore, touristsmove on to the various wildlife sanctuaries,waterfalls and wellness and yoga retreats.

With broadening industrial activity, sev-eral big medical centres and educationalinstitutes and travelers of all hues visitinginto the city, it is with satisfaction thatCoimbatore’s hotels are looking forward tothe future. At the same time they are helpingdevelop the city, introducing new cuisinesand also fulfilling the needs of the locals.

by RAHUL KUMAR

DESTINATION BUSINESS

SNAPSHOTS

India to Hold First International TourismExhibition in 2012India will hold its first ever International Tourism Exhibition – Global Travel Mart In-dia – next year to showcase the country’s tourism potential to the world. The Ministryof Tourism also plans to hold a conference of Tourism Minister of those countrieswhich have a MoU on tourism related matters with India. Both the events are ex-pected to promote India as one of the major tourist destinations internationally.

India currently receives just 0.5 per cent of international tourists and the UnionMinistry has set an ambitious target of doubling the tourist arrivals to one per cent bythe end of the 12th Five Year Plan. This would take tourist arrivals from 5.5 million toalmost 12 million tourists. The Union Ministry also plans to hold a conclave ofcountries having large Buddhist populations in India early next year to give a boost toBuddhist tourism as India has a large number of sites, temples and destinations spreadacross the country that attract religions tourists from South-East Asian countries.

Ministry Launches ‘Hunar Se Rozgaar’ InitiativeThe Union Ministry of Tourism has launched a scheme to impart training in the tour-ism and hospitality sectors to youth belonging to the economically weaker sections.The scheme is part of the Ministry’s larger initiative namely Hunar Se Rozgaar thatdraws upon the fact that drivers with skill and in adequate numbers are essential forsustaining tourism as the Ministry has laid major thrust on developing tourism as a keyeconomic driver that has a large employment potential.

The scheme is open to young men and women in the age group of 18 to 28 yearswho are at least 10th pass. It will initially give preference to persons belonging to thebelow poverty line category. The scheme, by subjecting eligibility to an economiccriterion, explicitly bars those who have the wherewithal to afford this training. Thetraining will have two distinct aspects - training to impart driving skills and also eti-quette training. The scheme will be delivered by the State Governments and the UTAdministrations.

Himachal Pradesh to Identify HistoricDestinationsThe Himachal government is providing infrastructural facilities at historically impor-tant destinations in the state. Speaking at a function, Chief Minister Prem KumarDhumal said that places of historic interest were being identified, developed andequipped with basic infrastructural facilities to facilitate visits of tourists. He said his-torical information and facts were being gathered about all such places to developthem as prominent tourist destinations.

The chief minister said that the state had received a record 4.53 lakh foreign tour-ists which speaks volumes about the state as a safe tourist destination. He said thatsuch an achievement had been possible due to the rich hospitality, tradition and cul-ture of the state and the immense natural grandeur present in the state. He added thatwhat also contributed to additional numbers of tourists was the commendable lawand order.

The chief minster said that Himachal Pradesh has a vast tourism potential whichcould help in generating employment for local youth. He added that tourism tourismhad been in vogue in India since centuries, as saints and sages have been travellingplaces on pilgrimage, as a part of religions tourism. He said that Sikhs had been un-dertaking pilgrimage to pay their obeisance at Nankana Sahib in Pakistan andsimilarly the Muslim brethren had been travelling to Mecca and Medina.

Hotels Category Rooms F&Band suites outlets

Le Meridien 5-star 254 7plus

Aloft 4-star 167 4deluxe

The Residency 4-star 135 8deluxe

Park Plaza 4-star 110 4deluxe

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Little Town of Many Miracles

SHIRDIThe core miracle remains: clear and

luminous.He came from nowhere, vanishedfor a short while, returned and re-

sumed his seat in a ruined mosque. Heasked for nothing, spoke little and his familyand his past are still a mystery. Yet, in spiteof the enigma of his origins, he radiated somuch empathy, gave so much solace by hispresence, that people were drawn to him forthe comfort they received. So, since theydidn’t know his name, and he never revealedit, they gave him the respectful title of SaiBaba. One interpretation of that is ReveredMendicant, but there are also many others.And as his devotees grew, so did the little vil-lage which he had chosen as his home.

When we first visited Shirdi at the start ofour travel writing career, years ago, it wasstill a village: quiet, not very developed but

Seventy thousand pilgrims visit theshrine ever day, rising to 1,25,000on Thursdays and weekends andsoaring to 2 lakhs on festivals.

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centered around Sai Baba’s grave whichhad, naturally, become a shrine.

On our return recently, we found thatShirdi had retained very little of its old vil-lage character. We spotted a herd of cowsmeandering down its main street, but theyhad to manoeuvre between cars, autos andcrowded buses. Upscale hotels rose wheredhaba shacks had once stood and an ironfence sequestered the shrine complex: it re-minded us of the one around BuckinghamPalace without the gold assertions of royalty.Gold, however, did glitter in some profusion.Above the sanctum, a golden tower rose. Thesanctum, within, was framed in a golden archbeyond which red-robed priests sat on bothsides of the Muslim savant’s grave and minis-tered to his garlanded statue, whichthey now accepted as an idol. His idolhad a golden crown and it sat on agolden throne. This was in contrast tothe grainy, blown-up, black-and-whitephotographs of the Baba framed inthe Museum. He had, always, dressedlike a simple fakir and one of the dis-plays holds his very humble personalpossessions. The fire he had lit to cooka Sufi seer’s meal for his followers, stillburned and its ash was treated as holivibhuti. His growing mass of devoteesnow worshipped this unassuming as-cetic as a god.

That is the second miracle: an Is-lamic seer, whose mosque is stillvenerated, who is now worshippedby Hindus and who draws devoteesof all faiths, all ages, all walks of life.The term ‘national integration’, is a liv-ing, burgeoning, reality here. We saw it in thequeues waiting to reach the sanctum, in thegirls clustered at the tinsel-glittering shops,the tree-shaded plaza where visitors rested.

Standing in the shelter of a neem tree ris-ing above a small monument, we skimmedthough a little booklet produced by the or-ganization that manages this great charitableundertaking. It listed miracles reported bydevotees who said that these were answersto their prayers to the Baba. At least oneresearch scholar claims that the small monu-ment at which we were standing marks thespot where the Baba had buried his mentorfollowing the Sufi practice. This had been aforest then. A devotee told us that the leavesof this unusual margosa tree were sweet butpilgrims could not pluck them now becausethey had been protected by a fence to pre-

vent eager visitors from denuding and killingthe revered tree. We didn’t doubt that: thenumber of pilgrims have grown exponen-tially over the years.

Happily, so have the facilities offered tothem by the trust.

We spoke to the Deputy Executive Officerof the Shri SaiBaba Sansthan Trust (Shirdi),Dr. Yashwantrao Mane. He is one of the twogovernment officials appointed to keep awatchful eye on the trust. Seventy thousandpilgrims visit the shrine ever day, rising to1,25,000 on Thursdays and weekends andsoaring to 2 lakhs on festivals. To cater tothis great influx of visitors, the state govern-ment set up the trust in 2004, taking over fromthe earlier private trust that had been in exist-

ence for 81 years. Two years after the newtrust took control, the Shri SaiBaba Hospitalwas inaugurated and three years later, in2009, the ultra-modern Sri Prasadalaya diningcomplex opened its doors to pilgrims.

In the sunlit atrium of the hospital, relativesof patients stood in front of a statue of SaiBaba, singing bhajans in praise of the Baba.Heart Surgeon Dr. Vidyut Kumar Sinha told usthat he had joined the hospital when it opened.Then they did only 3 open heart surgeries amonth, today they do between 55 to 60 andup to 4 a day. We learnt, later, that though theworld recovery rate for such operations is 90%,it is 95% to 98% in this hospital. The bhajansingers had completed their hymns and werewalking past when they overheard thedoctor’s conversation. Two of them stoppedand said “It is all the grace of the Baba. He is

still here, still watches over everyone inShirdi!” A strong faith definitely aids recoveryand in the IC ward, Jowar Srirang Nandlal,wired into an oxygen mask and monitoringinstruments, nodded when we asked him ifwe could take his photograph. He had hadhis operation 24 hours before we saw him.

Some distance down the road, the greatPrasadalaya dining complex spread. Standingin its manicured grounds was a covered ped-estal holding a larger-than-life statue of Babastirring an enormous cauldron of food. Mush-rooming the roof of the Prasadalaya, risingbehind the image of Sai Baba, was an array ofhuge dish antenna: or rather, they looked likedish antenna. In fact, they were solar collectorspumping the sun’s heat into the largest solar

kitchen in the world, directly below.The corridor leading to the kitchenand dining hall held offices withCCTV screens focused on the crowdsof pilgrims flocking into the Sai Babashrine. Monitors, looking at thescreens, assess the number of dinerslikely to eat in the Prasadalaya. This istransmitted to the kitchen and thestainless steel kneaders, fryers andboilers are programmed accordingly.

Senior cook Kardele Pralhad toldus that, on an average day, they boil2,500 kgs of rice, 600 quintals of daland a large quantity of cooked veg-etables. In the huge dining hall, onebatch of 1,000 diners had just left.Stainless steel thalis were collected,tables scrubbed, a mechanizedsweeper swirled its brushes acrossthe floor, squeegees and swabs dried

them. An army of apron-wearing attendantsdistributed clean thalis on the tables. The nextbatch of diners entered, sat down on sturdymetal chairs, were served their meals fromtrolleys. The turn-around takes half an hour,and 30,000 are fed on a normal day out ofthe many who queue up for the darshan in thesanctum. It is an efficient, hi-tech, operation.

It struck us then that though people whocome to Shirdi donate generously to the trust,they have visible proof that their contribu-tions are not being squandered or siphonedaway. They believe that no one dares to be-tray their faith in the Baba because he stillkeeps a careful watch over his people. Thatbelief, and its purifying consequences, is themost pervasive miracle of Shirdi.

Text and photographs byHUGH & COLLEEN GANTZER

DESTINATION PILGRIMAGE

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According to CAPA India, SouthAsia’s largest aviation consulting,research and knowledge practice,international passenger traffic to/

from India has accelerated since 2004/05.During the same period, Indian carriers haveincreased their share of total internationalcapacity from the long term average of ap-proximately 30% (where it had stabilised forseveral years), to close to 35%. (See Graph 1)

Indian Carrier PerformanceIn the 5 years to 2009/10, Indian carriers grewtheir international passenger traffic fasterthan foreign carriers. During the previousfive year period, foreign carriers had outper-formed Indian airlines in four of those years.

Growth of Growth ofInternational International

Passengers on Passengers onIndian Carriers Foreign Carriers

2000-01 3.9% 8.6%2001-02 -3.8% -2.7%2002-03 14.5% 8.9%

2003-04 7.6% 12.7%2004-05 17.6% 18.2%2005-06 22.8% 14.3%

2006-07 16.4% 15.7%

2007-08 21.3% 14.1%

2008-09 10.0% 4.8%

2009-10 15.8% 8.4%

Source: CAPA, DGCA

Foreign Visitor Arrivals to IndiaForeign visitor arrivals into India have seen astrong increase since 2004 (growing morethan 3x faster), except for a decline in 2009which was due to a combination of theweak economic situation in the key sourcemarkets of the US and Europe, as well as theimpact of the aftermath of the Mumbai ter-rorist attacks. (See Graph 2)

Indian National OutboundDeparturesIndian national departures also increasedstrongly over the 5 years to 2008, growing attwice the rate of the previous five year pe-riod. The acceleration of outbound departureshas been smoother than inbound, reflecting

the steadily growing economic prosperity ofthe Indian traveller. (See Graph 3)

India Economic Fundamentals■ Growth: Planning Commission is target-ing GDP growth of 9% per annum for thenext 20 years – historically GDP is the pri-mary driver of air traffic.■ Demographics: 50% of the population isaged under 25. Over the coming years thiswill reduce the dependency ratio and in-crease consumption.■ Consumption: McKinsey estimatesmiddle and high income consumption willincrease 14x between 2005 and 2025.■ Urbanisation: By 2025, the urban popula-tion is expected to account for 37 % of thetotal population, up from 20% in 1991.■ Trade: Imports and exports continue togrow at double digit rates, government hasset target of 25% growth in exports in 2011/12. India has forex reserves of US$313bn■ BUT inflation is a concern, recent indus-trial growth is sluggish.

CAPA REPORTIndian Carriers Grow MarketShare on International Routes

Go Now brings you a report prepared last month exclusively for the DGCAby CAPA India, the globally recognised provider of industry research andanalysis. Indian carriers have improved their market share from 30 to 36%.

AVIATION TRENDS

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million pax in 10 years.■ Projection for India is growth from 142mpax to 452 million pax in 10 years.

In fact the projected growth is slowerthan achieved in China over the last decade.China’s airport sector handled an additional80 million passenger movements last yearalone.

– Courtesy CAPA India

Graph 1

Graph 2

Graph 3

Domestic Passenger TrafficForecasts to 2021Over the 10 years to 2021, total domestic traf-fic at all Indian airports is forecast to growfrom 105 million to 356 million, or 3.5x. Dueto constraints at Mumbai Airport, Delhi isexpected to emerge clearly as the largest do-mestic airport in the country with projectedtraffic of almost 78 million, by which stage itwill be one of the largest airports in theworld. The other 4 metros of Bangalore,Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata will formthe next tier of large airports, slightly largerthan Delhi and Mumbai are today.

International Passenger TrafficForecasts to 2021International traffic will grow more slowlythan domestic, but still represents strongand sustained double digit expansion. Traf-fic is forecast to grow from 37 million to 96million over the next decade. Delhi is againexpected to be the largest airport, althoughMumbai will not lose as much ground as indomestic as the airport is likely to prioritiseinternational services in order to increasethe average number of passengers per air-craft to maximise the efficiency of scareslots. In the next tier of airports, the fourother metros will also be joined by Cochin.

Growth Ahead will DwarfRecent Experience

Domestic International Airport Growth AbsoluteAirlines Airlines Pax Multiple GrowthPax Pax

2000/01 14 m 14 m 42 m

2010/11 52 m 37 m 142 m 3.4X 100 m

2020 / 21 178 m 90 m 452 m 3.2X 310 m

■ CAPA’s forecast is based on a GDP growthassumption of just over 8% per annum, how-ever the Planning Commission has a moreoptimistic target of 9% until 2027. In addi-tion, some of the key states which drive alarge share of traffic, are expected toachieve State Domestic Product growth ratesabove the national average.■ Several forecasts – Airbus, Boeing, Air-ports Council International – project thatIndia will have the fastest growth rate in theworld in air traffic over the next 20 years(close to 10% p.a.)■ CAPA believes that the growth in trafficand aircraft movements over the next de-cade may be even stronger and moresustained than anticipated.

■ India is expected to emerge as the 3rdlargest aviation market in the world within10-12 years.

A Precedent for this Rate of GrowthThe growth projections for India are stagger-ing, but there is precedent, suggesting thatthey are feasible.■ China went from 134 million pax to 564

SO

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CE

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AP

A,

DG

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India’s heritage hotels are going througha massive process of transformationas these change from being family runhomes into professionally managed

hotels. What has played an important parthere is the demand from guests who are nolonger awed by their mere stay in a fort or apalace. With people demanding facilitiesand wanting value for money, the heritagehotels too have adapted. Despite the poten-tial, converting heritage buildings into hotelsis a slow and difficult process.

Rakesh Mathur, former CEO of Welcom-Heritage says: “Gone are the days whenpeople were satisfied with merely staying ina Maharaja’s palace. And, here I talk aboutordinary guests who want facilities like spas,activity rooms and facilities for children aswell as bars and lounges.” As guests becameexacting, heritage hotels too started improv-ing upon their conveniences likebathrooms, beds, better service and trainedstaff. Guests are now particular about gar-bage and environment and also hygieneand cleanliness. Thus heritage hotels startedbecoming eco-friendly also.

It is not just that. Another change that hasbecome visible at these hotels is reposition-ing the product and changing the focusfrom just heritage to a ‘total experience’.

Hotel managements started highlighting theuniqueness of their properties - emphasisingtheir exclusive locations like forests andlakeside and packaging experiences likenights in a tent or a desert safari.

Mathur says India has plenty of existingheritage structures that can be convertedinto upmarket hotels but due to various rea-sons these remain untapped. “Most of theseproperties are either in rural areas or incrowded city areas. The ones that are in ru-ral areas lack power, suffer from poorconnectivity, face hygiene and sanitation is-sues; while those in urban areas have nowalking space, are crowded and dirty. Ifthese issues can be addressed, so many newproperties can be restored and added to ourheritage hotel list.”

Similarly, several heritage buildings cur-rently run government offices across thecountry. These suffer from improper mainte-nance either due to lack of funds or simplybecause the government does not have thewherewithal to maintain them. Mathur, whois one of the founders and honorary vice

HERITAGE HOTELS

president of the Ecotourism Society of India,says: “As these buildings were essentiallymade for residential purposes, they are inef-ficient for office use. On the contrary, asthese are at excellent locations for hotels, Iwould rather that the government convertsthese into heritage hotels and builds new ef-ficient buildings for offices. It is possible tohave such an arrangement under the publicprivate partnership.”

What are the other factors that hamperconversion of buildings into heritage hotels?“Availability of trained manpower locally, orin rural areas, is a big issue for heritage ho-tels. Most heritage properties are located inthe countryside and these areas lack skilledhospitality people. I am not talking abouttraining at management levels. We need justthe basic training for local people that can

Evolving to Provide a TotalExperience and no LongerJust a Piece of HeritageIndia has plenty of existing heritage structures that can be

converted into upmarket hotels but due to a plethoraof reasons these remain untapped.

Bal Samand Palace

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HERITAGE HOTELS

“Most of these properties areeither in rural areas or incrowded city areas. The onesthat are in rural areas lackpower, suffer from poorconnectivity, face hygiene andsanitation issues; while those inurban areas have no walkingspace, are crowded and dirty. Ifthese issues can be addressed,so many new properties can berestored and added to ourheritage hotel list.”Rakesh MathurTill recently, President,ITC WelcomHeritage

British and also Pondicherry homes with aFrench legacy to Indian havelis. Built duringdifferent periods, these units have differentstyles and varied architectures. Indianhomes, rather the havelis, which were builtaround the concept of a joint family systemhave a courtyard as well as separate sections

inculcate simple skills in hygiene, cleanli-ness, environment consciousness, apartfrom basic skills in housekeeping, front of-fice, cooking etc” says Mathur.

India is fortunate to have been blessedwith splendid diversity in heritage buildingsbut only a few state governments havemanaged to encourage the growth ofheritage hotels. Rajasthan has had acomprehensive tourism policy which alsodeals with heritage hotels therefore suchhotels have prospered in the state. On theother hand, the heritage tourism policy inMadhya Pradesh, which is a rich repositoryof heritage buildings, has not beenimplemented properly. The tourism policiesof states do not address the issues ofheritage hotels adequately.

Then there are other constraints that bogdown heritage hotels. The two bugbears arethe liquor license fee and the conversioncharges for a heritage building into a heri-tage hotel. Mathur says: “Most heritagehotels are in rural areas where there are nowalk-in customers for a bar. The scenario isdifferent in a city hotel where a lot of cus-tomers are locals. Similarly, another issuethat goes against heritage hotels is the highconversion rates. As the properties are resi-dential they have to pay conversion charges.But due to the fact that these propertieshave large land banks, conversion chargesare levied on the entire land.”

The country has approximately 170 regis-tered heritage hotels. And these includeheritage homes; right from the Goan homesbuilt by the Portuguese to tea homes by the

for the men and women of the house.The diversity of historical buildings is

simply amazing. The other kinds of heritagebuildings which have been converted intohotels include forts, palaces as well as thosebuildings which were built by the British fora myriad of uses. “Another set ofarchitecture that exists consists of summerlodges and hunting lodges, many of whichhave step-wells, built specifially forrelaxation and recreation. These wereconstructed by the rulers to escape the heator go hunting. Such buildings are spread allover India, particularly in HimachalPradesh, Rajasthan and South India. TheBundelkhand region is particularly rich insuch buildings,” says Mathur.

The lack of a Central policy on heritagetourism is acutely felt. Even though thestates have their own policies, a comprehen-sive heritage tourism policy at the Centrallevel will help. Till then the owners of heri-tage properties will have to wait and so willthose people who want to enjoy a day outliving like an Indian royal with a blend ofthe modern.

by RAHUL KUMAR

Khimsar Fort

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With tourism undergoing ametamorphosis all over theworld, it is time industrypeople realized that they

have to rethink and keep pace with thechange in tourist profile. They have to rein-vent their business models and add newelements to acquire the competitive edge.Contemporary art offers an opportunity to

TOURISM CAN PROVIDE A NEW

ART CONNECT

what was built hundreds of years ago butalso what is happening now, what form In-dian creativity is assuming, what is beingdone in this day and age. While it is true thatthere is fascination for Old India among asection of people in the West, there is alsocuriosity about the contemporaneous.

“We have organized a dinner against thebackdrop of works by progressive artists,” saysSingh, adding that such demands come fromvery high-end visitors. But it is indubitable thatthere is demand for out of the ordinary. Andthis calls for thinking outside the box.

Tour operators and other stakeholdershave to expand their horizon and envisiontheir sector beyond the Delhi-Agra-Jaipur cir-cuit, Khajuraho, and Goa. “At present, thereis not even a mention of art galleries in bigcities. I am sure that contemporary art canattract a lot of foreign tourists,” he says.

They do come in large numbers to SouthDelhi’s Hauz Khas Village where the DelhiArt Gallery is situated. Singh, who is also asenior journalist, insists that DAG is morethan a gallery: “It is an institution.”

DAG mostly sells modern and contempo-rary Indian Art, with a strong focus on Indianmodernists. It has a large collection of over20,000 artworks which include works on can-vas and paper. It also has a large collection ofphotographs and rare books. There is also alibrary which can be used with permission.“Our purpose is to reach out,” he says.

Foreign visitors just walk in and savor theworks of modern and contemporary Indianart. “They have a desire to know modern Indiaand its arts. Our paintings are expensive, asthey are by masters, so not many buy artworks.But they have a desire to know and learnabout Indian art. And they are eager learners.”

Singh says that this interest can be trans-lated into innovative tour packages, for somuch is happening in the world of Indian art.“There are so many art galleries which areactive and offer a huge tourism connect.”

And it is not just art; other finer aspects oflife also can become means to promotetourism. “Why should we showcase onlyclassical dance? Why not contemporarydance,” he asks.

Then there are literary festivals.The need of the hour is lateral thinking.

Indian tourism has to look beyond the obvi-ous and the time-honored for a big boost tothe sector. Like politics, tourism can also bethe art of the possible.

by RAVI SHANKER KAPOOR

add a dimension to tourism.“How many forts and palaces you can

watch,” asks Delhi Art Gallery Head (Exhibi-tions) Kishore Singh. “After a standarditinerary, the tourist is sick and tired of archi-tectural marvels. The last of the forts theywatch like zombies.”

What tour operators don’t realize is thatvisitors to India are interested not only in

Art galleries can satiate the desire of foreigntourists about India, therefore tour itineraries

should include galleries also.

TOURISM ART

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TOURISM CULTURE

WORLD ARTAT NEW DELHI’S DOORSTEP

The fifth edition of the Delhi International Arts Festival is allset to bring global culture to Delhi – a fit tribute to the city that

commemorates its 100 years as India’s capital.

T he centenary year celebrationsof Delhi as India’s capital areset to get bigger. Delhi’s signa-ture arts festival, the Delhi Interna-

tional Arts Festival (DIAF), is getting morecountries to participate in the fortnight-long cultural extravaganza that begins in

November this year. Prathibha Prahlad, thefestival director says, “the festival is not justthe capital’s but the nation’s first initiative inbringing together a variety of arts. DIAF 2011will have more than 2,000 internationalartistes from around 30 countries perform awide range of music, theatre, dance, art and

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TOURISM CULTURE

many more cultural forms for a fortnight. Forus it is a wonderful opportunity to exposeour culture and country to a large numberof foreign artistes.”

Cross pollination of culturesDIAF goes beyond merely staging perfor-mances. It has out-of-the-box ideas that helpcross-cultural ideation. For example, a high-light of the 2010 festival was an event fromRussia with an inimitable name, the WorldTea Party, which had the participants dis-cuss the arts over unlimited cups of tea.Though not happening this time, it has beenreplaced by the Colloquium that will allowthe performers to network. Prahlad says:“Due to multiple avenues, the artistes do notget the time to interact with each other. TheColloquium, which will be held at the IndiaInternational Centre every day, will havequestions, debates, film clips and delibera-tions to set the mood. It is both formal andinformal but the idea is to have cross-polli-nation between cultures.”

The genesisA well-known dancer, Prahlad says: “Festi-vals that promote cultural tourism take placeacross the world. I had participated in theEdinburgh festival in 2001 and later in theTokyo festival which set me wondering whyIndia does not have a similar fest. Aftermuch pondering over, I met the then Minis-ter of Tourism who agreed to support asmall cultural festival.” Well, that wasenough to set Prahlad going.

Soon enough, the India Tourism Devel-opment Corporation, Indian Council forCultural Relations, the Sangeet Natak Acad-emy and other organisations came togetherand with Prahlad acting as a binding force,a small festival was organised in February2007. The three-day event was a SouthAsian cultural affair with participation fromIndia, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal.“This gave us the confidence to hold an-other one in December, the same year, andthat became the first DIAF. Can you imag-ine, we brought together six countries, 12days and 800 Indian artistes and we werenot even sure how this would happen. Butat the last minute we got a corporate spon-sor,” says the famous dancer.

Marketing Indian cultureThe DIAF not only brings India’s performingarts to Delhiites but also showcases it to the

larger arts and cultural fraternity that de-scends on the city. The fifth DIAF, with its2,000 foreign artistes from 30 countries, willundoubtedly have a major impact. “Partici-pants come here and then they want to seeIndia. Once the event is over, they spreadout across the country. The artistes are nothere merely to perform and be appreciated;they are here also to experience the countryand its people,” says Prahlad. The touringartistes not only get to soak in India and itscultural diversity; they also gain from wit-nessing the culture of other countries.

Former Doordarshan news readerGitanjali Aiyer, now associated with DIAF,says, “the city gains as hotels are filled upand travel and tourism gets a leg up. Withthe festival happening during the tourist sea-son, the festival spices up the evenings forvisiting tourists as they love to check outsomething in the evenings.”

Tagore gets a tributeThis year the opening itself will be grand.DIAF plans an international tribute to NobelPrize winner Rabindranath Tagore on theoccasion of his 150th birth anniversary by

featuring groups from India, Hungary, Brazil,South Africa, Bangladesh and China.Prahlad say that Tagore was among the firstIndians to have connected to the world. “Hewas a world traveler therefore the openingceremony will have performances fromcountries which had Tagore’s influence onthem. The countries that he travelled to andestablished contacts with are diversified andamazing. He was an extraordinary personal-ity who cut across art boundaries, thereforethe tribute to him,” Prahlad adds.

The highlights at the two-week long ex-travaganza include Colombian musicianCesar Lopez who will play a unique musicalinstrument called the escopetarra which is ashotgun guitar; a Indo-French contemporarydance festival DanSe Dialogues; a perfor-mance by Italian Flamenco dancerFarruquito; Korean traditional dances aswell as presentations from Peru, Uruguay,Argentina and others. With so many coun-tries, diverse cultures such a wide range ofperforming arts, the DIAF promises to holdtrue to its motto, ‘the new arts capital of theworld.’

Text & photographs by RAHUL KUMAR

“The festival is not just thecapital’s but the nation’s firstinitiative in bringing together avariety of arts. DIAF 2011 willhave more than 2,000international artistes from around30 countries perform a widerange of music, theatre, dance, artand many more cultural forms fora fortnight. For us it is a wonderfulopportunity to expose ourartistes, the culture and country toa large number of foreigntourists.”Pratibha PrahlandFestival Director

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TOURISM OUTREACH

I n 1999, during the Kargil war manycame forward to help the families ofthe war heroes. While that was impor-tant, Rita Khattar's attention turned to

the poor civilian population affected by thewar in the area. Rita wanted to reach out tothem personally to ensure that the money shedonates actually reaches those in need. Readywith Rs 1 lakh, she happened to mention it toher sister-in-law, Pam Kapoor and friend Dr.Naresh Trehan that she was off to Kashmir.Both of them showed willingness to contrib-ute and just then something struck Trehan.He suggested starting an NGO that wouldhelp people during such crisis or natural ca-lamities. That is how ‘Insaniyat’ was born.Working during crisisIt’s a social welfare organization workingduring crisis to help those bereft of home,family and food. During Kargil the trust col-lected huge amount of money donated bypeople and sent several trucks of suppliesfor about 5,000 families on the Dras-Lehroad. All the three trustees stayed there andensured the supplies reached the right

have to look for solutions and go ahead.During Kargil for instance, we had someproblem in getting the trucks to send thesupplies. Then Ajay Bijli (of PVR) came for-ward and arranged all the transportation. Iespecially thank for all his generous contri-butions always,” she quips.

Neither the hurdles deter the trust with itsmission nor do the perils scare them. So isshe never scared of going to an area whichmight be dangerous? “I am not scared ofanything. The only thing I am scared of isreptiles,” says a valiant Khattar.

Asked on what makes the organization dif-ferent from the others she says it’s the assurancethat the donations made actually reaches theright people. “There are many people whowant to donate but do not know how to goabout it. Often, the money never reachespeople. We have seen instances where trucksdisappear and the supplies are sold off it thelocal market. That does not happen with usas there is always at least one of the threetrustees who goes to the site,” she says.

by PURVA BHATIA

OVER TO SIKKIMINSANIYAT REACHES OUT IN THE CRISIS

Insaniyat exemplifies the phrase ‘where there is a will, there is a way.’Undeterred by hurdles, the trust reaches out to people in times of

crisis. Go Now speaks to Rita Khattar, one of the trustees…

people. The trust did similar work aftervarious natural calamities like earthquakesin Kashmir and Bhuj, tsunami in Andamansand floods in Leh and recently the quakein Sikkim.

Insaniyat is a fine example of giving backto the society. Khattar’s family owns theDelhi-based Avalon Resorts that owns threeproperties – Avalon Courtyard, an Ayurvedaresort in Mussoorie and The Farm in Philip-pines. Khattar feels they have reached a stagewhere giving gives more pleasure. She israther modest about her efforts and says 'it isno big deal’. “There is nothing extra-ordinaryin what we are doing. There are scores ofpeople willing to do some charity work andanybody can do it. But the important thing isthat it has to be done fast,” says Khattar.Nothing deters InsaniyatMany a times when other social welfare or-ganizations have wondered how to proceed,Insaniyat has simply gone ahead withoutworrying about the dangers or hurdles instore. “Sometimes arranging logistics andpermissions take a long time. But then you

Rita Khattar Pam Kapoor

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HOTELSCAPESA L L A B O U T H O T E L S & H O S P I TA L I T Y

• MOVENPICK DEBUTS IN BENGALURU• GREENWASH OR NOT? HOTELIERS SPEAK OUT• INTERIORS GO CONTEMPORARY• LE MERIDIEN DELHI CHANGES COLOURS• STARWOOD LAUNCHES ALOFT AND FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON

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MOVENPICKDebuts in Bengaluru

NEWSMAKER THIS MONTH

After marking its presence in Europe, Africa, Middle East, and parts ofAsia, Swiss Hotel Company Movenpick Hotels and Resorts enters India

with plans to stay and multiply. Movenpick Hotel and Spa Bangalore, is amodern and classy hotel in the city’s industrial hub.’

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We are delighted to sign a secondproperty in Dharamshala. Addingthis landmark property to aportfolio follows our objective toexpand our presence in India as welaunch the Movenpick Hotel & SpaBangalore this season.

ANDREASMATTMULLERCOO MIDDLE EAST AND ASIA

The next time you visit Bengaluru,you have an option of experi-encing Swiss hospitality in thecity. Thanks to the Swiss hotelchain Movenpick that has now

entered India while operating 72 hotels inEurope, Middle East, Africa and Asia after along wait. Conveniently located near thebusiness districts of the city, the hotel is alsocarefully branded as the first upscale prop-erty enroute Bangalore International Airport.Keeping the property’s décor modern andcomfortable, their prime customers are pro-jected to be business travellers. “We areexpecting a lot of MICE business,” said GaryMoran, General Manager, Movenpick Hotel &Spa Bangalore “with estimates of 70 per centindividual travellers versus 30 per cent ofgroup travellers.”

Distinctive offers & facilitiesThe hotel design aims to be progressive, withcontemporary crystal chandeliers and illu-minated staircases as some of the detailsthat catch your eye. The hotel has 182 rooms,varying between 35 square meters to 175square meters, which include six categoriesof well-appointed rooms, eight ExecutiveSuites and one Presidential Suite. Rooms areequipped with LCD screens, state of the artfurnishings and Wi-Fi in offered throughoutthe hotel premises.

The hotel boasts of four F&B outlets-thefirst is ‘Obsidian’, a retro bar furnished withhigh chairs and a vintage finis and the sec-ond is an ethnic Italian restaurant‘Mezzaluna’’which offers gourmet delights.Eateries also include ‘My Place’, a 24 houreatery already attracting the local crowdwith their house full Sunday brunch. A roof-top restaurant and lounge, ‘Perfect Sky’promising the scenic sights of Bengaluru, isyet to be opened.

Andreas Mattmüller, COO - Middle Eastand Asia, Movenpick Hotels & Resortslighting the lamp at the conference.


Promotional offerAs a part of the introductory offer, youcan enjoy a stay at Rs 7,500 per night.This offer includes: ❐ Buffet breakfast at My Place❐ 24 hours check-in and check-out❐ 24 hours internet access❐ One way airport transfer❐ One way office drop❐ One set of laundry per day❐ 20% discount on your bill at My Place❐ Drink voucher

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Wooing business travellersThe contemporary hotel offers a rooftopgym, ‘Aasman’, equipped with the latest kitsand an indoor and outdoor swimming pool.For locals, they offer gym and pool mem-berships at a lower price than some of theiradversaries, also throwing in off-peak andcouple offers. In a bid to attract more cus-tomers looking to experience solitude andluxury, Movenpick is set to woo global trav-ellers with Sohum Spa. With the interiorinspired by Hindu temples, the Spa boaststhe use of copper and silverware for thera-pies along with professional healers,specializing in Indian, Oriental and Euro-pean rituals.

The entire ground floor has been dedi-cated to business centers, convention halls,

boardrooms and social events. Apart froma grand ballroom, it has a total of 9 meetingrooms with the capacity of accommodating600 individuals.

Unique introductory offersIn a market where Movenpick has competi-tors spurting in the vicinity like Sheratonand Taj, the strategy is to offer high end fa-cilities coupled with launch offers. “Forfrequent fliers,” elaborated Moran,“Movenpick offers a 24-hour rate where theguests are billed only from the moment theyarrive, unlike other hotels.”

To increase visibility in India“Soon after its soft launch in June 2011, thehotel has already seen a couple of sold-out

nights,” said Lokesh Kumar, Vice President De-velopment and Marketing, India. MovenpickBangalore helps the brand gain visibility inIndia, thereby increasing the company’s out-bound business in other parts of the world.In the last decade, there has been an up-surge in the number of hotels in Bengalurubut Prem Joseph Moevenpick, Bengaluru’sDirector Sales and Marketing sees a lot ofmaturity in the market too. On the launch, hesaid “There has been a bifurcation for hotelsand Movenpick is clearly positioned in theupscale category. With no more state sub cat-egories in local and international ratesdomestic travel trends have only increasedand multiplied”, an aspect that will only helpthem in time to come.

The group will soon open its secondproperty in Dharamshala. The upcomingproperty will have 100 plus suites and a35,000 square foot spa to relax and unwind.Also, Movenpick is planning to acquire man-aging operations in Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon,Udaipur, Jaipur, Mumbai, Kolkata, Cochin andChennai; they plan to open 12 new hotels inthe next five years.

– MANAVI SIDDHANTI

❐ Only high scale hotel located near BIA❐ 182 rooms, 8 suites, 1 presidential suite❐ Wi Fi access, LCD TV screens, state ofthe art furnishings❐ 24 hour restaurant, meeting, socialevent venues for 600 people❐ Indoor/outdoor swimming pool, state ofthe art rooftop gym, Aasman❐ Sohum Spa with Ayurvedic, Oriental andEuropean therapies available


factfile

The 24 hour eatery My Place

Gourmet Italian at the Mezzaluna

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GOOGLE HOTEL FINDER:ARE INDIAN HOTELS READY?

“The right ERPsolution allows

hotels to leveragesocial media,

increase their onlinepresence andinteract with

potential guests inan informalmanner. ”

Binu Mathews explains how the hospitality industry can adoptan automated solution to make their presence felt, both off-line

and on-line in preparation for the Google Hotel Finder.

come to them, but need to get closer to guests.These hotels are turning to Global DistributionSystems and Internet Distribution System solu-tions that give them visibility online. However, avast majority of hotel rooms are still sittingwithin the registers of tiny hotels.

Partnering with the righttechnology partnerCan hotels across segments afford to ignore thesigns any longer? Launched as a pilot in the US,it is only a matter of time before Google’s HotelFinder goes global. Then, a guest will be plan-ning the location of his stay, looking at picturesof his room, sifting through the menu, scoutingfor guest reviews and booking his stay with theaid of a credit card.

In such a scenario what a hotel needs, irre-spective of its size and market segment, is highquality Hotel ERP solution and an experiencedtechnology partner. A Hotel ERP not only auto-mates its internal processes, it also introducesefficiency, helps better manage costs and inte-grates with a GDS, IDS and the hotels own webbooking engine. A good property managementsystem also enables the hotel to capitalize onSmartphone technology so that it can interactwith guests at multiple touch points.

The right ERP solution allows hotels to lever-age social media, increase their online presenceand interact with potential guests in an informalmanner. It also helps smaller properties to adver-tise and increase their online presence in a costeffective manner.

The answer seems clear, the leisure industry,irrespective of the size of the property, needs toadopt an automated solution that helps them in-tegrate both their off-line and on-line presenceto capitalize on tools like the Google HotelFinder and the shift towards the initial touchpoint being the internet.

The author is President & COO, IDS NEXT

Google’s recent venture into the hospitalitysegment with its Hotel Finder tool showsgrowing receptiveness to technology as

travellers plan their itinerary and book hotelslong before they arrive at their destination. With itsHotel Finder tool, Google has added competitionto existing tools like that of Bing and given awhole new spin to services offered by currentholiday booking sites, Makemytrip, Yatra, Cleartrip,and others.

For a quick introduction to Google HotelFinder, it is a new experimental tool that makes iteasier to find, compare and book hotel roomsbased on price, location and user ratings. UsingHotel Finder one can specify ideal location, filterby preferences, sort results and if one finds a greathotel, all they need to do is click the ‘Book’ buttonto make a reservation.

With the launch of Google Hotel Finder it isnow almost certain that no hotel, restaurant, re-sort, spa or other hospitality and leisure industryproperty, in India or elsewhere, can afford to ig-nore the internet or shy away from it.

Are our hotels ready for Googlehotel finder?The tourism industry in India is poised to grow atan annual growth rate of 9.4% and promises todevelop into a US$275.5 billion business by 2018.With India an obvious star attraction for travellers,what do tools like Google Hotel Finder mean tothe hospitality industry?

International statistics reveal that a third of theworld’s travel sales will be conducted online bythe end of 2012. According to PhoCusWright’sGlobal Online Travel Overview Second Editionreport, online leisure and unmanaged businesstravel bookings will grow twice as fast as the totalmarket, to surpass US$ 313 billion by 2012.

In response to impressive statistics like these, agrowing number of hotels in the country are real-izing that they can no longer wait for guests to

GUEST COLUMN BINU MATHEWS

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How much is Real, Howmuch is Greenwash?

GREEN HOTELS

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The Oberoi Gurgaon

FORUM

Jose DominicCEO, CGH EARTH

With environmental concerns upper-most in people’s minds, ‘Green’ is thebuzzword not just in hotels but also inautomobiles, house construction andin the eco-responsible practices of cit-ies, states and countries. The constantdebates on climate change, rising sealevels, melting of glaciers and ice caps

of the Himalayas and the Arctic region, have made people aware thatthere’s cause for concern. While car manufacturers have launchedgreen versions, hotels have adopted green initiatives, enlisting guests’cooperation with regard to re-using linen and so on.

Customers today want the satisfaction of knowing that their enjoy-ment acknowledges responsibility to the environment and thecommunity. Hence the industry is aware that their green achievementsneed to be shown to their customer as well as declared to the world.

To practice responsible tourism, energy conservation, water con-servation and waste treatment are vital. While some hotels sincerelypractice green principles, with certifications (like LEED) ensuringthat they adhere to the principles, others merely greenwash. But thetime for greenwashing is over as people can see through it. Beinggreen now means taking a holistic and integrated approach – ensur-ing quality of customer experience; conservation of environment;inclusion and benefit to the local community. Further, procedures forwater and energy audits are essential as also a budget set aside tofulfill their ecological and social responsibilities.

At CGH Earth, environment consciousness, social inclusion and

CSR are vital to our business strategy. In The Spice Village, we arenow going completely solar, the first in the country to do so. The60 room hotel depends solely on the sun’s energy that comes froma 65 KW solar panel, achieved at a cost of 4 crores.

Sushil TyagiCHIEF ENGINEER, THE OBEROI,GURGAON

Hotels that are conscious of their im-pact on the environment takeinitiatives – big and small to save en-ergy, water and reduce waste. At TheOberoi, Gurgaon, our Green philoso-phy is to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.We encourage our employees and

guests to participate in our ongoing green initiatives. The Oberoi, Gurgaon is a zero discharge hotel and sustainability

is at the core of its design and architecture as well as its services andamenities. One-third of the 9-acre premises of the hotel is covered byforest, landscaped greens or water bodies, that are sustained by re-cycled waste and water from the hotel, making the property acomplete, self-sufficient ecosystem.

Each guest room is equipped with the INNCOM Integrated RoomAutomation System that detects and regulates room temperature byreducing the use of HVAC and lighting when the room is vacant, thusconserving energy. So if the room is vacant, lights and AC areautomatically switched off. The double glazed vacuum sealedwindows conserve energy and reduce noise.

Water treated at the sewage treatment plant (STP) is used to water

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Orchid hotel, Mumbai

the forest and gardens of the hotel. Significantly the STP results inzero waste discharge into the municipal drainage system. Further,area wise metering of water consumption is undertaken todetermine areas of high usage and initiate further conservationmethods. Up-to-date machines have been installed in the laundryand kitchen to reduce the consumption of water. The 6 rain waterharvesting pits preserve and replenish ground water level.

We also enlist guests’ cooperation in reusing linen. Every area ofthe hotel lets in plenty of natural light, thereby reducing the need forartificial lighting while the use of CFL and LED lighting reduces en-ergy consumption by 15-20 %.

Pradipta BiswasGENERAL MANAGER,THE ORCHID HOTEL, MUMBAIThere are ways to tell whether a hotelis truly concerned about its environ-mental impact or whether it is simplygreenwashing to join the bandwagonof environmentally conscious hotels.One way is through certifications suchas Green Globe, LEED etc. that inform

the public that a hotel is adhering to international norms throughregular audits and checks, giving stakeholders some assurance thatthe company is genuinely environment friendly and not justGreenwashing. Further, a hotel should allow its guests to see its envi-ronment friendly practices. Transparency and certification together,give authenticity to the hotel’s claims of being environment friendly.

For a hotel to be truly green, it must demonstrate eco-sensitiv-ity in waste management, energy efficiency and waterconservation. Merely switching over to energy efficient lighting isinadequate, although it can cut down on energy costs. The ratio-nale for going green should be to reduce carbon footprint ratherthan monetary benefits. Having said that, going green can be ex-pensive - such as when investing in a sewage treatment plant totreat waste water; or a bio gas plant to biodegrade organic waste.Nevertheless, such investments are made by certain hotels to savethe environment.

At the Orchid, we use solar panels to generate electricity for roof-top lighting and train our staff to adopt eco-friendly practices. As forour guests, they help conserve energy by re-using linen and by set-ting the thermostat to the energy conservation mode in their roomsor pressing the eco button on their bed side control panel.

Niranjan KhatriGM, WELCOMENVIRON INITIATIVES,ITC HOTELSPrior to environmental issues takingcentre stage in the hospitality indus-try, ITC Hotels in 1988 made a humbleforay into an uncharted territory, at-tempting to address all the crosscutting eco challenges holistically. Inthe bargain it has become the 1st

chain in the world to introduce special audits concerning use ofenergy and water as well as mapping material intensity. This effort

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FORUM

was also extended with different stakeholders, now referred to asthe 'triple bottom-line philosophy.’

Currently, the chain sources 25 % of its energy requirementsfrom renewable energy. Roping in every one to ensure energy effi-ciency in hotels is a challenging task, hence we have unleashed anarray of technology to manage energy efficiency through design,which we also call ‘design frugality’. The service provides you whatyou need by intelligent design, but cuts down on power throughmotion sensors, smart cards and a variety of intelligent devices, lead-ing to conspicuous conservation.

Green washing is a terminology used by organizations for overstating green initiatives, since today’s customers look out for signsof good practices in different organizations. Since the subject isnew and evolving, organizations begin with small initiatives in theirgreen wash efforts, but gradually migrate to higher levels of perfor-mance, by learning from others and on many occasions are goadedby market forces and legislation to better their efforts.

With customer awareness increasing, rather than look for shortterm benefits through green laundering, organizations should de-velop a clear cut road map for execution.

To help customers differentiate between ‘the real green’ asagainst ‘a green wash’, every ecologically aware country in theworld, has its own labeling (or rating) standards (BEE, USGBC,LEED). ITC Hotels as a global ecological pioneer and its ‘beyondcompliance philosophy’, has strived for a LEED platinum rating forall its luxury hotels. The chain’s efforts have raised the bar toachieve a new standard known as ‘Responsible Luxury’ at all theITC Luxury Hotels.

Mukesh DharmaniDIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING,THE IMPERIAL

When a hotel ensures conservationof water, fuel and energy and has sys-tems in place to reduce, reuse andrecycle waste, it is considered green.There is also a strong emphasis on us-ing locally sourced materials, naturallight, heat, fresh air and solar energy to

generate heat, water and electricity; minimum use of wood in con-struction; and use of herbal soaps and eco-friendly cleaning agents.

At The Imperial, we have asked our suppliers to reduce packagingmaterial. We recycle paper and send waste to recyclers. The use ofchlorofluorocarbons is being phased out from refrigeration equip-ment; and use of natural light, air and heat is under implementationin our restaurants. The hotel uses CFL lamps, occupancy sensor lightcontrols (in locker rooms), energy saver cards for guest rooms, vari-able frequency drive motors and timers for building lights and freshair units. Besides, we have dual flushing system in toilets, bio blocksfor urinals and self closing taps in staff toilets. Staff are trained tosave electrical energy, water and fuel.

We also harvest rainwater, use natural gas for boilers and cooking;use eco-friendly cleaning agents and waste water for gardening; sendwaste food to a piggery, and waste oil for recycling. We hope to in-stall a solar water heating plant, a biogas plant and a larger watertreatment plant. – COMPILED BY ESTHER WILLIAM

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Hilton Worldwide, which al-ready has a wide presencein India, has recently intro-duced a new brand,DoubleTree by Hilton in the

country. The upscale, full-service hotels andresorts brand trademarked by HiltonWorldwide is known for a high-level ofcomfort globally. The sentiment is wellreflected in its tagline ‘Where the little thingsmean everything.’

People who have stayed at a DoubleTree byHilton would be familiar with the ‘cookie’ wel-come! As a signature style, every guest is greetedat check-in with a chocolate chip cookie as anexpression of welcome, unique to the brand.

Brand characteristicsDoubleTree by Hilton targets modern daybusiness travellers. It defines itself as an up-scale, full service, business class hotel fortravellers ‘looking for a professional, yet re-laxed, lively and refreshingly welcominghotel experience.’ It is purportedly warmerin its appeal than other Hilton brandspresent in the country. Catering to the needsof business travellers, the hotels have meet-ing and event facilities ranging from 2,500 to150,000 square feet. A warm welcome andattention to small details for the comfort ofguests is what makes the brand amicableand popular among its loyalists.

DoubleTree by Hilton:A Full-service, Ritzy & Cordial Brand

DoubleTree by Hilton is the latest addition toHilton Worldwide’s fast growing portfolio inIndia. The brand made its debut in the countryearlier this month…

History of the brandFirst Doubletree Hotel in Scottsdale, Arizonaopened in 1969. Doubletree Corporationwas formed in 1994, following a mergerbetween Guest Quarters Suites Hotels andDoubletree Hotels, creating the first newnationwide hotel brand to appear in theupscale market in several years. In 1997,there was a merger between Promus HotelCorporation and Doubletree Corporation.Two years later, Doubletree Hotels,Embassy Suites Hotels, Hampton Inn,Hampton Inn & Suites and HomewoodSuites officially become a part of the HiltonFamily of Hotels, creating one of the world’slargest, strongest hospitality organisations.

BRAND ANALYSIS

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Debut in IndiaIt was in 2009 that Hilton Hotels had an-nounced the signing of a long-termmanagement agreement with JMD Ltd., for aDoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Gurgaon,which was supposed to be its first hotel inthe country. The project has, however, takena longer time to complete than expected.

The brand has now finally made its debutwith a property (in Mayur Vihar, New Delhi)owned and operated by Eros Resorts & Ho-tels Ltd, an Eros Group company, andmanaged by Hilton Worldwide. The hotel is apart of a twin-tower complex, sharing spacewith Hilton Hotel & Resorts developed un-der the same agreement between the ErosGroup and Hilton Worldwide.

Sharing his vision for India, Rob Palleschi,Global Head, DoubleTree by Hilton said,"The debut of DoubleTree by Hilton in Indiawith the opening of the DoubleTree byHilton New Delhi-Mayur Vihar is a significantmilestone in our brand's continued growthstrategy to provide outstanding hotel offer-ings in the world's gateway cities.”

DoubleTree by Hilton brandsThe DoubleTree by Hilton has its productline which includes DoubleTree by HiltonHotels; DoubleTree by Hilton Guest Suites,DoubleTree by Hilton Club; and DoubleTreeby Hilton Resorts. There are more than 200hotel properties of this brand in gateway cit-ies, airport locations and suburban marketsthroughout the US.

Outside the United States, hotels arebranded as DoubleTree by Hilton. The brandhas seven locations in the UK, five hotels inChina, three in Italy, two in Canada, two in Peru,two in Costa Rica, two in Tanzania, two inSlovakia, one in Malaysia, one in Russia, onein Norway and one in Ras Al Khaimah UAE.

Hilton's Expansion PlansOf the total 10 brands under its umbrella,the company has plans for six brands inIndia including Hilton, Conrad,Doubletree, Hilton Garden Inn, Hamptonand Waldorf Astoria. Currently, HiltonWorldwide manages six hotels underthree brands in India in New Delhi,Chennai and Mumbai. It aims to open atotal of 10 new hotels by 2012; it alreadyhas a total of over 20 properties undervarious stages of development across itsportfolio of brands in India.

– PURVA BHATIA

The debut of DoubleTree by Hilton inIndia with the opening of theDoubleTree by Hilton New Delhi-Mayur Vihar is a significantmilestone in our brand’s continuedgrowth strategy to provideoutstanding hotel offerings in theworld’s gateway cities.

ROB PALLESCHIGLOBAL HEAD, DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

BRAND ANALYSIS

Signature DoubleTree cookies❐ DoubleTree by Hilton gives out approximately 60,000chocolate chip cookies each day.❐ Globally, the brand claims to have shared more than 230million DoubleTree cookies with guests and customers during the

past 25 years.❐ Every DoubleTree by Hilton hotel follows the same

recipe and exact baking instructions. So you get thesame taste no matter which DoubleTree you visit.❐ Each cookie is filled with an average of 20

melty chocolate chips - that's more than 580,000pounds of chocolate chips each and every year!

Source: doubletree.hilton.com

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Every project presentsa unique opportunityto allow differentiationthrough the creation ofa distinctive andmemorableenvironment andexperience.

DESIGN ANALYSIS

Interiors Move Towardsthe Contemporary

With business travel inascendance, functionality is the current flavorin hotel designing. Notthat hoteliers and their

clients have nothing to do with the local andthe traditional, but what dominates thescene is the straight line rather than the cur-vilinear plans, says Anil Badan of theDelhi-based Studio B Architects (SBA) whichspecializes in interior design.

This is not surprising because businesshotels are the fastest-growing segment of thehospitality sector. Big luxury hotels preferheavy interiors and often want to depict thelocal content, he says. “We are doing proper-ties in Kerala and Kashmir. Both have interiors

Most hotels are following greennorms. They are using energysaving devices. Being ecologicallyresponsible is also financialrewarding, as you end up saving30-40 per cent on electricityexpenses. While all new hotels areusing eco-friendly technologies,the established ones are alsogoing green.

ANIL BADANPRINCIPAL DESIGNER,STUDIO B ARCHITECTS

in tune with the surrounding environment.”The company has just finished work at

Radisson Blu, Agra, and Sarovar Portico,Surajkund. Recently, SBA also did a hotel inNairobi. The client wanted a strong local fla-vor, so Badan’s firm interacted with localartists and guided them to create ethnic arti-facts by adopting modern themes.

This, however, is not always the case, hesays. “There is a line of thinking that if a guestis in, say, Jaipur, he goes out and sees the city.When he comes back to the hotel, he maynot like the Rajasthani ambience that he sawthe whole day.”

Besides, a business traveller prefers to be ata place where feels at home. He prefers thepaintings in his rooms to be contemporary ab-

Sarovar Portico Surajkund – theperfect ambience to unwind.Sarovar Portico Surajkund – theperfect ambience to unwind.

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DESIGN ANALYSIS

stracts rather than traditional miniatures.Unsurprisingly, contemporary interior designhas a proclivity towards efficiency, he says.

Loyal to the briefBadan points out that SBA follows a simplephilosophy: to stay loyal to the client’s briefand meet the operator’s requirements offunctionality, while creating an interior thatmeets the highest international standardsand provides a unique and memorable ex-perience for the guest. “Understanding ourclients positioning and precisely interpretingtheir unique needs is of paramount impor-tance at the outset.”

For every project, careful consideration isgiven to all design elements, both great andsmall. “By the end of any project, a seamlessintegration of imaginative planning, dailyinteractions with our clients, technical exper-tise, and artistic vision completely transformthe environment,” he says.

His firm offers services to, among others,hotels, restaurants, bars and lounges in notonly India but also the Middle East, China,and Africa. “We provide the highest caliber ofplanning and color schemes for interiorspace to articulate the personage style and

Costing varies from project to project, loca-tion to location. “Inflation has to be taken intoaccount. If a hotelier wants to go green in in-teriors, the cost surely goes up, because themanufacturers of the materials used have topay for green certification,” Badan says.

Do interior designers face problems withsuch technologies? “Not much. The challengeis finding optimum green-certified material.While it is available, the choice is limited. Tothat extent, it is a challenge. But the situationshould improve in five to six years, he says.”

In general, however, the supply of materi-als required is not a problem, he says, addingthat everything that is needed is made in In-dia. “Mostly, the 70-75 per cent items we useare domestically manufactured. A few thingsare imported for quality and specifications.Imports having been eased by governmentpolicy, it is a smooth process accessing theoverseas merchandise.”

The real challenge is not related to sourc-ing of materials but meeting the requirementsof clients. “We use the art of design to opti-mize space and profits. We combine designtalent with business acumen,” says Badan,adding that this is the secret of their success.

– RAVI SHANKER KAPOOR

true nature of each client, while meetingtheir cost constraints. We use the latest CADand administration system and an extensivein-house library of the most up-to-date fin-ishes. Our best acquired characteristic is thesynchronization of our style with the ide-ational and cultural aspects of a place andthe client’s requests.”

Sticking to their work philosophy of beingloyal to the clients, SBA listens carefully tonot only what they say but also what theydon’t say or whisper. “We try to understandyou and your thinking, feeling, and require-ments. Only then, we begin work. We canturn those hidden fantasies into a reality, cre-ating a world where color and style blendinto each other leaving a feeling of immensepleasure and tranquility,” Badan says.

Going greenAnother trend that is catching up is that of be-ing eco-friendly. “Most hotels are followinggreen norms. They are using energy saving de-vices. Being ecologically responsible is alsofinancially rewarding, as you end up saving 30-40 per cent on electricity expenses. While allnew hotels are using eco-friendly technologies,the established ones are also going green.”

Bar, Radisson Blu, Agrafor an inspiring break.

Contemporary hotel luxuryin Sankara , Nairobi.

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ALOFT COIMBATORECaters to High-tech TravellersStarwood Hotels and Resorts that has over 50 Aloft properties globally is

expanding the brand’s presence in different countries.

We have heard of hospitality chains designing ho-tels for business guests,the tourist and the budget traveller. Now we

have a hotel chain designing a hotel for the“Facebook people”. At the launch of themultihued Aloft Hotel in Coimbatore, thethird in India after Chennai and Bengaluru,international hotel group Starwood empha-sized that this brand addresses the needs ofthe young individual who travels globallyand is tech-savvy.

The Coimbatore launch was special asthe chain celebrated the opening of its 52nd

Aloft globally since 2008, making it one ofthe fastest growing brands.

Customer profileAs Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President,Specialty Select Brands (Aloft, Element, FourPoints by Sheraton), said: “We started in allthe regions at the same time so that we couldaddress the need of the global traveller. Bythe end of this year, we will open up in Lon-don as well. In India, the next two Alofts willbe at Chandigarh and Ahmedabad.”

Profiling his target customer, McGuinnesssaid: “We want to connect to the guest who isyoung, professional, goes to the café, thebeach, and uses the latest gadgets. Someonewho is social and is as comfortable in thecity as he is in the suburbs, therefore, we arelooking at people who were leaders atschool, are design and fashion forward, buythings for their cool factor not the status fac-tor and hold creative non-traditional jobs.”

Ambition levelsMuch like the other international chainsstepping into India nimbly, Starwood toohas plans. It aims at having 100 hotels, cut-ting across brands, price points and targetcustomers by 2015. This ambitious numberincludes hotels that are operational andthose for which deals have been signed. AsRajan Bahadur, Regional Director Sales andMarketing, South Asia, said: “We already havesix of the nine Starwood brands here. Weplan to introduce two more – W Hotels inMumbai and St. Regis in Delhi NCR. Cur-rently there are 33 operating propertieswhile 18 more are in the pipeline.”

He added that the group plans to set up

The lobby radiateswith vibrant colours.

Mediterranean restaurantEstia has a Greek look.

Re:fuel is a grab-an-go cafefor yogurts and fruits.

NEW HOTELS ON THE SCENE

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We want to connect to the guestwho is young, professional, goesto the café, the beach, and uses thelatest gadgets. Someone who issocial and is as comfortable in thecity as he is in the suburbs,therefore, we are looking at peoplewho were leaders at school, aredesign and fashion forward, buythings for their cool factor not thestatus factor and hold creativenon-traditional jobs.

BRIANMcGUINNESSSENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, SPECIALTYSELECT BRANDS (ALOFT, ELEMENT,FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON)

five sales offices across the country. “We areinvesting in a unified sales team for ourbrands. We have a new strategy for a market-place like India as we see growth in all ofour different brands here.”

Local partnershipsAloft’s expansion strategy rides piggybackon a local partner. Chennai-basedAuromatrix Holdings, that independentlyruns two hotels, is the local partner in allthe three cities. Managing Director ofAuromatrix, Udday Kumar Krishnan said:“We have invested about Rs 100 crore inAloft Coimbatore and plan to stay with thisbrand. The launch of Chandigarh andAhmedabad hotels is next.”

Why Coimbatore?Aloft decided to check in at Coimbatore as itis an old textile hub and was under-servedwith just one upmarket hotel. The city at-tracts a large number of tourists who head tovarious temples, wildlife sanctuaries and theattractive hill town of Ooty – all of which areclose by. The hotel is just 3.5 kms from theairport and is close to the CODISSIA tradefair centre, one of the largest in south India.Future growth will also be driven by the factthat Tamil Nadu’s second info-tech park iscoming up at Coimbatore.

Coimbatore is now blessed with four upmarket hotels, two each in the four and thefive-star category. Starwood itself has oneeach in these categories with a luxurious LeMeridien about to open soon. For the mod-ern-day traveller headed to Coimbatore andits nearby areas, there is not only enoughchoice of stay, but the hotels are themselvesbecoming destinations for those looking fora change and to unwind.

– TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHS BY RAHUL KUMAR

Hotel FeaturesThe hotel has 167 rooms, a lounge, a bar,an eating space for small eats, yogurtsand fruits, free wifi across the property, aswimming pool, a gym and a play areanear the lobby with board games and asnooker table. It has an all-day diningrestaurant and another one thatintroduces Mediterranean cuisine to thecity. The colours are trendy and no twowalls are the same shade. The interiorsare all done in vibrant colours surpassingthose of a rainbow – a design elementthat starts from the porch and followsthrough the hotel.


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Starwood brands are notdistinguished by star categories oron the basis of rates. These arelifetsyle brands where each brandis marketed uniquely. A customerwould choose a particlaur brandnot because of the price but for thelifestyle it offers.

DILIP PURIMD, INDIA AND REGIONAL VP, SOUTHASIA, STARWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS

Four Points bySheraton Opens in Pune

Visitors to Pune are spoilt forchoice when it comes to op-tions to stay. Starwood Hotelsloyalists more so. After Westinand Le Meridien, the global

hospitality major has added yet anotherbrand, Four Points by Sheraton, to the city.

The 217- room hotel serves short stay visi-tors with 168 hotel guestrooms as well asthose looking for long stays with 48 servicedapartments within the hotel. The hotel hasnearly 10,500 square feet of meeting andfunction space with seven separate areas formeetings and conferences.

Brand PositioningStarwood likes to define the brand as‘classic and timeless, casual and relaxed,honest and authentic’. “It is for someonewho’s modern but not trendy and practicalyet stylish,” says Brian McGuinness, SeniorVice President, Specialty Select Brands(Aloft, Element and Four Points by Sheraton).“Four Points is casual and relaxed in styleunlike its sister brand, Sheraton,” he adds.Dilip Puri, MD, India and Regional VP, SouthAsia, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, says,“Starwood brands are not distinguished bystar categories or on the basis of rates. These


Four Points by Sheraton, Starwood’s third-largest brand and one of thefastest growing in the group, has opened its 4th property in India.

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are lifetsyle brands where each brandis marketed uniquely. A customerwould choose a particlaur brand notbecause of the price but for thelifestyle it offers.”

Wooing business travellersA typical guest at the hotel is someonewho “appreciates quiet time, is practicaland enjoys good value and is down-to-earth,” adds McGuinness. The hotelexpects to get 80% occupancy from thecorporate travellers. “We are targetingmainly IT, manufacturing and autocompanies,” he adds.

USP of the hotelAccording to Pankaj Mathur, GM, the af-filiation of the brand with Starwood isone of the biggest advantages FourPoints has over its competitors. The

Hotel FeaturesRooms and FacilitiesThe residences in the hotels aim to provide a home away from home for theguests. There are 48 residences from a studio to 750 sq. feet, 1 bedroomspacious apartments that feature spacious living room, dining room, and fullyequipped gourmet kitchen with basic appliances, two 32" LCD TV’s, hometheatre system and DVD player. Guestrooms are equipped with facilitiesincluding high speed internet access, the signature Four Points by SheratonComfort Bed, and free bottled water.

About the BrandFour Points is Starwood’s third largest brand after Sheraton and Westin. Thebrand name ‘Four Points by Sheraton’ represents four corners of the world. Itdefines the vision of the group to be present in all the corners of the world. Thebrand caters to business travellers but has an identity sharply distinct from theothers in Starwood’s portfolio.’


Address: 5th Mile Stone,Nagar Road, Pune,Maharashtra - 411014 IndiaTel: 91-20-39406699Tariff: Rs 5,000 onwards(depending on best available rate)

brand is the third largest, as per the rat-ings, for the group. “Starwood has itsloyalists who settle for nothing less. Thisbrand from the family offers honest, un-complicated comfort and that is thebrand’s biggest USP,” says Mathur. Also,the other advantage the hotel has isthat it is located within a 15 minutesdrive from the airport.

Food & BeverageThere are two food and beverage out-lets – Panash, serving Pan Asian cuisineand an all day dining restaurant, TheEatery. Also, there is a lounge bar, TheBest Brew where guests can enjoyfreshly brewed beer.

Expansion plansThe brand made its debut in India in2009. With this launch there are now fourFour Points in India including the one inJaipur, Navi Mumbai and Vashi. Globally,the brand is expected to grow to nearly180 properties by 2012. In India, the nextFour Points will open in Delhi NCR by2013. With the opening of this 170-roomproperty, the brand will have 5 hotels andwill cross the 1000 mark.

– PURVA BHATIA

factfile

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SPUNK &LIGHT

Le Meridien, New DelhiTakes on New Colours

MAKEOVER IN ACTION

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worked on a five-year plan to renovate theproperty to turn it into a hotel that could beanywhere in the world,” says Tarun Thakral,the Chief Operating Officer, Le Meridien.“We began the process by doing two mockup rooms in 2003 and started taking feed-back from the guests. The rooms were slickand clean in design. One had more glasswhile the other one had more wood. We putin mood-lighting in the rooms which en-abled the guests to change the colour oflight in their room according to theirmoods,” says Thakral.

Why the change?Since its opening in 1988, the hotel had not

seen significant changes. Moreover, repeatguests had begun to take notice of the dateddesigns and had started commenting. AsThakral says, “The change was purely a re-quirement and also a constant reminder byour guests.” People wanted more of light,modern designs, better acoustics, comfort-able working spaces, no carpets, airyambience and modern-day furnishings.

Meena Bhatia, Vice-President – operationsand marketing says, “Guests want facilitiesthat they are accustomed to – a good phonesystem, new television sets, the internet anduncluttered working space for their laptop.International hotel designs are headed inthis direction.”

With the Indian landscapewitnessing the launchof a hotel a day, wellalmost, strong winds ofchange are blowing

across the industry. As new groups bring thelatest ideas, innovative concepts and thrill-ing designs, the old ones too ramp up withbetter service, improved cuisines and funkyinteriors. This is precisely what theMeridien, Delhi, has done over the last halfa decade – a completely new hotel insidethe old façade.

Spurred by guest feedback, the Meridiengave a straight-line brief to the designer –make the hotel contemporary and slick. “We

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The process of redesigningThe challenge was to run the hotel with aslittle inconvenience to the guests as possibleand simultaneously carry out the renovation.The lean tourist period from April to Septem-ber was identified for the changes. Differentwings were taken up at different times. Just1/3 of the rooms were put under renovation,therefore the first year saw 95 rooms beingdone up. The second year had 104 and thethird year too had the same number. In thefourth year, the lobby was taken up and inthe fifth, it was the atrium lobby and the ban-quet halls.

The hotel is proud that the process wascleverly done. Dust-proofing and sound-proofing were done so that guests were notdisturbed. The hotel was strict with the con-tractors to ensure that deadlines wereadhered to.

Behind-the-scene changesIt is not just gloss and glamour in the rede-sign. An important part of the makeover wasthe improvement and overhaul in thebackend. Bhatia says: “Everything has alifespan. Even a building has one. Therefore,we paid attention to the kitchens, the air-con-ditioning system and also the fire-fighting

We began the process by doing twomock up rooms in 2003 and startedtaking feedback from the guests. Therooms were slick and clean indesign. One had more glass whilethe other one had more wood. Weput in mood-lighting in the roomswhich enabled the guests to changethe colour of light in their roomaccording to their moods.

TARUN THAKRALCHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

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Eau De Monsoon has usheredin new concepts and cuisines.

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equipment. Now practically everything isnew.” She adds that the concept of the restau-rants also changed. “The style, thepresentation, the food, cuisines – everythingis different now.

The hotel changed the concept behindthe Indian cuisine completely. Indianmeals are served in a European-styledmanner. Moreover, Indian food is now aseven course wonder and the guests areshown photographs of the food on a tablet.Under its signature breakfast, the hotel hasintroduced a mind-boggling concept aneye-opening shot, made of unconventionalcombinations of fruits, herbs and spices toawaken the guests and prepare them for theday ahead.

Starwood steps inRight in the midst of the changes, Starwoodtook over Le Meridien in 2006. But by thistime, much of the work had been conceptu-alized. Still, Starwood brought in fresh airyideas – the LM100, Unlock Art and signaturebreakfast.

LM100 is an advisory group of renownedcultural innovators and artists who advisethe hotel on creative innovations and alsohelp it enrich the guest experience. This is a

global group comprising visionaries rangingfrom painters to photographers; musicians todesigners and chefs to architects.

Explaining Unlock Art, Bhatia says: “Yourkey not only unlocks your room but also un-locks your mind. Under the Unlock Artconcept, we are creating a voyage of art anddiscovery for our guests. We have tied upwith art galleries around the world so thatour guests can access galleries merely by

showing the room key – which in itself is awork of art.”

The remnantsIt is no surprise that few know about themammoth changes taking place at theMeridien more so because the façade, thedriveway and the lawns remain unchanged.But why were these left out? Thakral says: “Wedid not change the façade for two reasons.One, it is architecturally difficult and also be-cause it is a part of the city skyline. The glasscurtain wall was the first in the country at thattime and remains a sort of a landmark.”

The elevator car has not been changedfor sentimental reasons even though its ma-chinery has been replaced. Bhatia says:“This elevator capsule was the first of itskind in Delhi. People used to line up just totake a ride in it, so for these emotional rea-sons we have retained it.” Is any otherchange coming or is the makeover com-plete? The 20th floor still remains but willbe taken up next summer.

With the tourist season round the corner,the time is right to head to the Meridien toawaken the senses, soak in the new designand revel in contemporary art.

– RAHUL KUMAR

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Le Meridien is one of the fewto have an atrium lobby.

The tablet complements the menu card.

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Friday’s offers its customers apremium experience in a casualenvironment. It targets a youngupwardly mobile executive who isdriving India’s growth story. Helives a comfortable lifestyle, aspiresfor more and doesn’t mind paying apremium for a quality experience.

ROHAN JAITLEYVP, DEVELOPMENT AND MARKETING,BISTRO HOSPITALITY PVT. LTD.

perience in a casual environment,” saysRohan Jaitley, VP, Development and Market-ing, Bistro Hospitality Pvt Ltd. Ask him whoa typical customer at the restaurant is andhe says, “A young upwardly mobile execu-tive who is driving India’s growth story. Helives a comfortable lifestyle, aspires for moreand doesn’t mind paying a premium for aquality experience.”

Success mantra: flavour ofinnovation & authenticityThe brand competes with Ruby Tuesday,Chili’s, Hard Rock Café and others offeringsimilar menus. “The USP lies in offeringauthentic experience in a fun environment,”says Jaitley . “Everything from décor to themusic and ambience and from menu to thequality of food is the hallmark of authentic

TGI FRIDAY“Good quality food and drink, authenticity, superior serviceand a fun atmosphere – that’s Friday’s recipe for success.”

Eat, Drink & be Merry atTHE F&B STORY

When T.G.I Friday’sentered the Indianmarket back in 1996,casual dining as aconcept that we know

today did not exist. Dining out on a Fridaynight with friends, either meant going to aritzy restaurant in a posh hotel or to alocal eating out joint. T.G.I Friday’s saw theopportunity then and pioneered theconcept of casual dining in India.

It brought in a dining out space whichwas very unlike the ‘restaurants’ in this mar-ket. It provided a fun ‘American’ atmospherefor young affluent consumers, creating aniche for itself. However, in the 15 years of itspresence in the country, the brand has onlynine outlets in – Delhi NCR, Mumbai,Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Slow and steadyseems to be the mantra and the brand isnow expected to see rapid expansion.

Targeting the upwardly mobileT.G.I. Friday’s promises great food and bever-ages in a fun atmosphere. It describes itselfas a ‘refreshing concept that embodies allthe fun and camaraderie and “let your hairdown” feeling that comes before a weekendand distils that spirit into a wonderful, casualdining experience...’ It is essentially a casualdining establishment offering a varied menuof excellent appetizers, meals and desserts.The extensive international menu offersMexican, Cajun, Pastas, Pizzas and TGIFriday’s speciality foods.

The experience, however, comes at aprice. The average bill at the restaurant ismore than that of its close competitors.“Friday’s offers its customers a premium ex-

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American dining experience that the brandpromises. It is for this reason that thecustomers don’t mind paying a premium,”he adds.

Friday’s believes the key to success lies inconstant innovation. “At Friday’s, we have ayear-round research and development pro-gram in place, monitoring food andbeverage trends and ensuring that we main-tain our innovative tradition,” quips Jaitley .

The paper on the table lists several newmenu options which qualify as promotionalmenu. The popular items from these areadded to the main menu, replacing a not-so-popular item on the menu.

The brand assures quality and authenticfood with its efficient supply chain. “We do

not compromise on quality at any cost. Togive you an example, the supply of FrenchFries we get here do not match our interna-tional standards of required amount ofproteins. So we import them from US andFrance to give our customers the same inter-national quality of food.

Money matters & marketingactivities The average guest count per month is about430 at popular outlets like in Vasant Viharand Palladium in Mumbai. The new projectswill be funded by internal accruals and thecompany expects to close this fiscal at Rs 50crore. The restaurants are said to cost any-where between Rs 3 crore to Rs 7 croredepending on the size and location.

Positioned as a high-end restaurant, itwas surprising to see it offering lunch buffetat Rs 199. The objective was to target vol-umes during the leanest hours of weekdays.“T.G.I.F as a concept attracts people duringevenings when they want to unwind. Thelunch hours went mostly vacant and the of-

fer worked well to attract customers,” assertsJaitley .

What the offer also did was to opendoors to new customers who did not visitbecause of the premium tag.

Synergy with CarlsonFriday’s is currently operated by Bistro Hos-pitality Pvt Ltd, in which 25 per cent stake isheld by the US-based hospitality firmCarlson. One wonders why there are noFriday’s at Carlson Hotels. But Jaitley ex-plains why it does not make sense. “HavingFriday’s at the hotels would spell competi-tion for the in-house restaurants. Also, thepositioning of the brand is different andtherefore, the target audience too is differ-ent,” he adds.

However, there are internal synergieswhere in the employees get benefits. That is

important for retaining staff in a segmentwhere attrition is high.

Expansion plans: large formatsin bigger numbersBistro Hospitality has plans for aggressive ex-pansion in India. At present, the firm hasnine TGIFs in India, out of which four aresmall formats. It aims to open a minimum oftwo to three outlets every year. This financialyear, the company will open three new TGIFsin Mumbai and Bengaluru. Besides, the com-pany is also looking to enter new cities suchas Pune, Kolkata, Chandigarh and Chennai.

“With cultural dynamics changing in In-dia at a fast pace and spending powerincreasing the time is right for us to expandaggressively,” says Jaitley .

In its expansion spree, the focus will nowbe on large formats. So far, the outlets have acapacity of 150-200 covers. From now on thenew outlets will have a seating of 250 plusguests, with a carpet area of 5,000 to 7,000square feet. Recently, the firm has opened alarge format outlet in Bengaluru having anarea of 6,500 square feet with a seating ca-pacity of 280 guests.

“Friday’s is all about experience. And it’sin a large format store that you can enjoyFriday’s original experience to the fullest,”explains Jaitley talking about how the origi-nal design of the brand comes alive in abigger space with the signature propeller, ascull, etc.

The Indian expansion is a part of an inter-national strategy, under which the companyaims to open a total of 500 TGIFs outside theUS in the next five years, up from over 330 atpresent. The company operates over 1,000outlets worldwide, including the US market.

– PURVA BHATIA

Genesis of the BrandThe Friday’s restaurant chain was foundedby Alan Stillman in 1965. With $5,000 of hisown money and $5,000 borrowed from hismother, Stillman purchased a bar he oftenvisited, The Good Tavern at the corner of63rd Street and First Avenue, and renamedit T.G.I. Friday’s after the expression “ThankGod! It’s Friday!” from his years at BucknellUniversity. T.G.I. Friday’s on Manhattan’sUpper East Side quickly became a popularhotspot for single adults, totaling $1 millionin revenues in its first year.

THE F&B STORY

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WHY HOTELS SHOULDIMPROVE SERVICE STANDARDS

“Sometimes wetry to be everythingto everybody andthis just doesn’twork. We cannot

treat leisurecustomers with the

efficiency of abusiness traveller

and vice versa.”

Mathew Cooper discusses the shift in customerexpectation over the years and suggests ways by

which hotels can meet their requirements.

should not have to accept masala in every dish.I literally benchmark the cooking in our hotelto that of our mums. My guests would not ac-cept food quality lesser than that which theywould receive at home. If your mum makes abetter dosa than a trained chef, then why onearth would you pay for one in a hotel? Ourguests, Indian or International use the samebenchmark. My mum makes the most amazingbraised corn beef and if the chef at my hotelcan not make it as well then I say you have twochoices-learn or don’t bother! One techniquewe have employed at Marriott is that we askour guests at every meal period to tell us ifthey were writing the menu what they wouldput on it. We even ask them to help us roadtest the taste. With the success of TV shows likeMasterchef, Food Food and Health MangeMore (by the way my Executive Chef SahilArora is the star of this show) our customersare very much in touch with their inner chefand they actually enjoy this interaction. Againit doesn’t work on all guests but our long stayguests love it.

Sometimes we try to be everything to every-body and this just doesn’t work. We cannottreat leisure customers with the efficiency of a

business traveller and viceversa. India is no longer a oncein a lifetime adventure destina-tion. The “this is India” excuseno longer works with ourguests. Our guests have beenhere before, they have given usfeedback and they are waitingfor us to act upon it. We haveasked the world to come to usand now we need to ensure weare ready for them becauseguess what...they are coming.

(The author in GM atCourtyard by Marriott Gurgaon)

The hotel world has long regarded Indianservice and hospitality to be the finest onthe planet. I too agree. For years, interna-

tional hoteliers have been enviously watchingthe subcontinent hotel companies master the artof exceptional service – the art of being alwaysat hand without being obtrusive, the ability to beservice- focused without being subservient. I was,and still am in awe of some of my colleaguesand competitor hotels in this country. But overthe last few years there has been a shift in cus-tomer expectation; our guests are changing andthe execution of service that these new guestswant is not necessarily moving with this shift.

We need to understand why our guests arecoming and truly ask what they need to be suc-cessful whether that be business, pleasure,discovery, adoption, expatriation or repatriation.Shockingly, not all of guests are here to see theTaj Mahal. We need to accept that.

The first thing you may notice about Indianhotels when you arrive here is that there is com-fort in numbers. It seemed that if you hadenough good-looking staff in the lobby, not do-ing anything in particular, eventually you wouldrun into a guest and this would force an inter-action! This blanket coverage is not necessarilywhat our guests want. I mean itis nice to get the VIP treatmentat the door on arrival but after Ihave been on a flight for 16hours I really just want to get tomy room and have a shower. Iwonder if instead of having 10people to say hello on arrival ifwe could not use this money toupgrade our bandwidth andensure it works.

Our service gaps in India areno more evident than in foodand beverage operations. If ourguests don’t like chili they

GUEST COLUMN MATHEW COOPER

go now magazine october 2011

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