micetalk november 2013

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Volume IV Issue 11 November 2013 60 pagesA DDP Publication

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6 MICEtalk November 2013

Dear Reader,

With the weather getting cooler and more pleasant and the

fall of the rupee against the greenback, India is actually seeing

a rise in tourism figures, especially for MICE, not only from

international destinations but also domestically. Corporate

houses are preferring to travel for their events within the

country rather than flying to distant shores at the cost of

much larger bucks, due to the exchange rate. It’s a big point

for discussion… read our Let’s Talk section.

MICEtalk spoke to some of the Indian destination

management companies and tourism industry leaders about

their opinion on expectations of today’s clients and the

advantages and disadvantages of MICE events held in India.

We bring you their opinions in the cover story of this issue.

When you talk about India, Yoga cannot be far behind. With

the popularity of India’s wellness and spiritual tourism growing

at a very healthy rate, Zambhala is a unique Yoga festival

being organised in Goa in December.

And if you have to travel far, then let’s go all the way to

Australia and New Zealand. Both the countries are putting

great efforts to building the MICE infrastructure and making

incentive travel more exciting. And now with Air India flying

the Dreamliner to Australia since August 2013, it has become

easier for MICE and incentive groups to reach these countries

conveniently.

We also have our experts tell us the right way to shake

hands at a business event, and be more systematic while

travelling… On that note I wish you all Happy Reading!

Deepa Sethi

reader’s PAGE

to the editor...“MICEtalk is a magazine that is developing its focus on technology and social media with great intent. And since here, at Internet Moghul, it has always been our belief that technology and social media are the leading trends for the MICE industry, we enjoy the magazine and the Tech Talk articles and have even contributed to them.”

Cheers Avijit

Avijit Arya, Chief Mogul, Internet Moguls

8

36

Facts

MICE CountryAustralia

MICE InitiativeMelbourne lures MICE travellers

Let’s TalkDollar fluctuation makes India more

attractive for MICE

Incentive TalkIncentives Galore in New Zealand

Domestic MICEKochi

Your’s OfficiallyReem Khokhar, Regional Manager,

VisitEngland

Event TalkMITT, Russia

Expert TalkLife Management

Hotel TalkITC Grand Chola, Chennai

Etiquette Talk

Tips for the Right Handshake

TechnologyProviding exhibitors with revenue generating leads

Movements

Events

Cover StoryProfiling India as a MICE destination

contents24

40

12

48

‘Thailand CONNECT’ campaign to boost MICE tourismThe Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau

(TCEB) unveiled ‘Thailand CONNECT, a global

marketing campaign for corporate buyers and

meetings organisers to promote Thailand as a

premier MICE destination. The campaign will

focus on three key aspects – diversity of Thai

destinations, unrivalled business opportunities,

and the high quality of Thailand’s MICE

professionals.

It is accompanied by a number of specific

promotional packages that will extend financial

support to MICE events and delegates attending

MICE events in Thailand, depending on their

country of origin and duration.

Malaysia expecting Unique Venue by 2015The Golden Bridge – a future icon in recognition

of Sarawak’s 50th Golden Jubilee Year, is set to be

a potential unique venue for cocktail parties and

themed events for that value-added experience

Sarawak has to offer. Named Golden Bridge in

recognition of Sarawak’s 50th Golden Jubilee Year of

independence from British rule, it measures 400m

long and looms 12m above the water. The S-shape

structural design was inspired by the meandering

rivers in the state.

Rail Europe’s mobile app acts as a travel guideRail Europe has launched a new mobile app

which is available on Android and iOS platforms.

One of its striking features is the ‘Station Guide’

which contains details of over 70 stations on

the Rail Europe network. It also comes with

a map that’s linked to Google Maps or Apple

Plan, which makes navigation easier. Its best

feature is a section for FAQs and help. If a

passenger (Indian) posts a question in Europe,

it immediately connects to the Indian Support

Centre for further assistance.

Madame Tussauds Museum to open in Beijing in 2014China will have its fourth Madame Tussauds

waxwork museum open next year in central

Beijing, close to Tiananmen Square. The attraction

will include a range of Chinese and international

celebrities from the worlds of sport, politics,

movies and TV, with no ropes or barriers

separating guests from the figures.

FA

CT

S

facts

‘China Products Exhibition’ in Mumbai to boost trading opportunitiesThe 11th edition of ‘China Products

(Mumbai, India) Exhibition’ will take

place from November 26–28, 2013 at

the Bombay Convention and Exhibition

Centre, Goregaon (East), Mumbai, India.

This unique trade expo showcases more

than 40 industries and will have an added

attraction in the form of a Hong Kong

Trade Development Council (HKTDC)

pavilion where companies from Hong

Kong will showcase their products.

Providing complimentary business

matching services, the Exhibition assists

Indian businesses in meeting their

future business partners from China and

Hong Kong.

facts

FA

CT

SRevolution in Event CommunicationsMarketingConnect is an integrated marketing

automation solution, designed to utilise event and

attendee behaviour information gathered from

other GenieConnect tools to generate relevant &

personalised content, which is then channelled

through attendee communications channels like

email, in app and push messages. This allows event

organisers to send highly targeted and relevant

information to attendees to maximise engagement

throughout the entire event life cycle.

Perfect Meeting Package by HiltonHilton Bandung launched two innovative,

exciting and carbon-neutral corporate events

programmes that creatively incorporate the

destination into the programmes. For the Perfect

Balance Meeting package, Hilton Bandung has

hitched one end of this initiative to Bandung

Treetop, a team-spirit and corporate bonding

specialist offering adrenaline-charged zip-line

flights, obstacles courses, tests of strength and

gravity-defying Tarzan leaps through the lush

rainforest and cool dense woodlands of Bandung.

Sydney to host the AYTE in 2014Sydney has been chosen as the host destination

for the 2014 Australian Youth Tourism Exchange

(AYTE). Held over three days from May 20-

22, 2014, Sydney will host the event for the

second time. The event includes scheduled

workshop appointments between distributors

and suppliers, networking events and post-

event familiarisations. In addition to AYTE, the

annual Australian Backpacker & Youth Industry

Conference (ABYIC) will be held in conjunction

with the event.

‘Work Now, Stay Later’ offer by Starwood HotelsStarwood Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s largest

luxury and upper-scale hotel, launches its latest

meetings offer ‘Work Now, Stay Later’ with over

200 participating Starwood hotels in Asia-Pacific

valid until December 31, 2013 for meetings uptill

March 31, 2014.

As part of this promotion, members of the Starwood

Preferred Planner (SPP) will get one free night’s stay

to be credited to their accounts, for every 50 room

nights that they book. This is in addition to the

Starpoints® they will earn through revenue generated

by the Group booking.


as a MICE destinationProfilingNeha Oberoi

India

Much has been said in the last couple of years and in our previous issues about the great potential of MICE in a country and how it helps boost the economy. In this issue, we are focussing on India, the promise it carries and the severity of the challenges it faces. Read on…

The commerce of MICE holds a lot

of allure for any country. Going

just by the ballpark figures, a single

person travelling for business purposes

spends approximately 5 times more than

a leisure traveller.

Fairmont Jaipur

cover story

MICEtalk November 2013 13

cover story

Right: India Expo Centre, Greater Noida

Incentive destinations in IndiaAnup Nair, President, Site India Chapter, opines, “There are separate segments that

constitute MICE. If it’s a large Meeting, Conference or Event, the bigger cities (with good

flight connections) and sometimes even smaller ones may be selected. It is the purpose

and objective of the event that will dictate this. The situation with Incentives is different.

The places we promote for incentives are where ‘experiences’ can be delivered and a ‘wow’

impact created. The most popular destinations are the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra and

Jaipur) and also other regions in Rajasthan – Samode, Neemrana, Jodhpur, and of course,

Udaipur. Incentive trips to Kerala are very regular and Mumbai and Goa are also quite

popular. Bangalore, Chennai and Mahabalipuram are also on the circuit, but not

that common.”

Expectations from a venueThe Indian MICE industry comes with dynamic business opportunities and splendid venues for events,

exhibitions, conferences and meetings. Evidently, the travel industry is thriving due to a phenomenal rise in

MICE activities.

While talking about India’s MICE industry, Sudeep Sarcar, General Manager,

India Exposition Mart Ltd, shares, “We are witnessing the emergence of new destinations

within the country. We are also seeing second-tier cities developing quickly and attracting

MICE business from major cities such as Mumbai and Delhi. This is further fuelled by the

opening of new hotels with MICE facilities, increasing the focus of DMCs. At the moment,

I would agree that India’s MICE industry is fragmented, with less specialisation than some

other destinations.”

He believes that the main challenge, currently faced by the industry, is the global

economic climate which has encouraged meetings industry suppliers to become a lot more

resourceful to generate the greatest return on investment. He further informs that, “In the present scenario, the

organiser basically wants a

one-window operation from

the venue so that they may

save time and energy from

approaching one department

to another to meet their

requirements. Also, since an

exhibition centre caters to

exhibitors and visitors from

both India and abroad, the

organisers expect the facilities

to be world-class to avoid any

awkward situation in front of

their clients.”


cover story

Adding to the discussion, Shagun Sethi, Director - Sales & Marketing,

Fairmont Jaipur, points out, “Availability of large room inventories, spacious and

flexible meeting/banquet spaces and the latest technology and infrastructure attract

any event organiser. A positive history of successful events, a perception of safety and

security, close proximity to leisure experiences and a range of quality accommodation

are also crucial.”

Today, technology largely influences venue selection because the needs of attendees

differ according to the theme, purpose, location and volume. Size of a convention centre

is also critical because area layouts are specifically configured to maximise lines of sight

and attendee participation. The availability of comfortable and luxurious on-site accommodation is also a major

influencer clubbed with an eclectic array of fine dining options. Below: Fairmont Jaipur

On comparing

India with other

destinations,

Sanjay Grover,

General Manager,

TravelSpiderTM

(A division of

Paharpur Business

Centre), opines

that, “MICE industry has a huge scope for

growth and is at a nascent stage in India. It is

fragmented and requires to be streamlined.

We need to have some effective strategies to

make it successful.”

Discussing about the venue expectations,

Sanjay updates that organisers expect a venue

to be easily accessible in terms of domestic

and international flights and equipped with

amenities like Yoga and Ayurveda Centre,

Discotheque, Spa and Health and Wellness

facilities along with sports activities.

Below: Spa/Wellness Centre at Lebua Lodge, Amer

“It is an added advantage if a venue is equipped with amenities like Yoga & Ayurveda Centre, Discotheque, Spa & Health and Wellness facilities along with sports

activities like Tennis, Squash, Badminton, Golf Course, etc.

Above: Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

cover story

The need of the hourMarketing a destinationA key driver of success for a hotel and convention space is being able to market itself as an appropriate venue.

Given the requirements of its guests, the efforts involve marketing the city, highlighting the support infrastructure

available and creating a unique experience for delegates.

Michel Koopman,

General Manager,

The Leela, speaks of

the same phenomenon,

“Hotels are big

beneficiaries of MICE

business but first the

destination is to be

sold. It is the allure of

the destination that

will invite traffic and

only then can we get

into the nitty-gritty of

convention spaces. We

need people to look

beyond the perception

of India as a mystic

place and more as a

MICE destination.”

Karan Anand, Head - Relationships, Cox & Kings Ltd, voices his opinion, “India

attracts its fair share of MICE movements though we could do even better. In cities such

as Mumbai, Delhi and NCR or for that matter Chennai, we need more 2 and 3-star hotels

that can accommodate a large number of delegates. The government should also be

more liberal in granting licenses to promote nightlife as it becomes very important when

choosing a MICE destination for companies.”

Below: Lobby of The Leela, New Delhi


cover story

India has the potential of becoming a leading MICE player, but the lack of integrated convention centres that

people expect hampers the development per se.

Naveen Rizvi, Sr. Vice President- India & Head, ICE- Integrated Conference & Event

Management & TUI- Meetings & Incentives, says, “Though there has been considerable

improvement in the number of hotels and convention centres being opened, lack of quality

infrastructure is a major concern for MICE business in India. The country offers myriad of

experiences but the concentration is limited to a few places only. The Andaman & Nicobar

Islands, offering exotic beach vacations on the Indian Ocean, lack good quality hotels and

have extraordinary high airfares for a domestic incentive tour. Agra - the city with the

world famous Taj Mahal- has good MICE potential as it is situated on the famous Golden

Triangle route, however, has no direct air connectivity. Another destination which lacks

infrastructure from a MICE point of view is Goa. The destination has all ranges of hotels, event venues, ample of

pre-post tour options, except for a good convention centre. Only Grand Hyatt Goa offers convention facilities in

its premises to accommodate up to 1000 people. Also the fixed flight arrival/departure timing in Goa is of concern

for a good MICE Movement.”

World-class Infrastructure

cover story

Support from the government

Priti Khanna, Chairperson,

MCI Management India Pvt. Ltd., comments, “We need

some standard operating procedures in place where the

government steps in to provide support for conference

movement. The challenge for us is not infrastructure.

That’s secondary. Major challenge is government support

to make India an inviting MICE destination especially

in terms of approvals, permissions, letters, etc. Given

the broad canvass the support needs to come from

a joint effort of all relevant stakeholders such as the

government, airlines, hotels, convention centres, etc.”

The government is providing financial support for developing international convention centres

and tourism-related infrastructure but it is a process that is moving at a snail’s pace.

“ India has made

stupendous development in terms of

infrastructure and economy

and is working on upgrading

its MICE facilities.”

Below: Terminal 3 at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi


cover story

As an emerging globalised service industry, MICE is valued by the government for its high growth

potential, large opportunities for employment, large industry associations and efficient utilisation of

assets. India is synonymous to warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage and has a strong appeal as

a MICE destination. With great hopes we can say that India is perched positively on the MICE path!

Sanjay Grover, GM, TravelSpiderTM, also feels

that taxes including service, luxury, entertainment,

sales or taxes on transportation and aviation turbine

fuel, levied across the tour operators, transporters,

airline industry, hotels, etc., make India an expensive

MICE destination. He further elaborates, “This

definitely requires a focussed approach if we want

MICE to become an integral segment of the overall

Tourism Industry. At present, incentive is the major

component in a mature MICE market. Indian

corporate world has been showing interest in taking

up MICE activities since few years. These days,

companies reward their employees with special

tour packages to motivate them. Starting from an

adventure trip to a hill station to a desert safari, one

can find out ample of options to offer as incentives.

Incentive schemes have to be promoted, which is

another challenge.”

Umaid Bhawan Palace,

Jodhpur, is one of the

largest heritage style

boutique hotel.

Above: Taj Lake

Palace, Udaipur


Australia Offering Exclusive Meetings and Incentive options

Australia offers a plethora of MICE options with a bent towards innovative incentive activities. More and more business travellers are choosing it as a prime destination to add flavour to their incentive activities. Here’s a breakdown of the cities and the popular activities available:

Sydney Opera House at night

country talk

why Australia?


“Australia offers an

exceptional range of top-end

corporate meeting experiences

and unique incentive options

that provide the perfect

atmosphere to reward and

energise. Australia has a

competitive advantage in its

vibrant cities, coastal lifestyle,

native wildlife, and vast

outback. For the year ended

July 2013, there was 21 per

cent increase in convention

and conference arrivals from

India, compared to the same

period last year.”

Nishant Kashikar,

Country Manager India,

Tourism Australia


Sydney Convention Centre ,

Darling Harbour

Australia has a host of cities, each offering their own

unique experience for business events. Australia’s

coastal centres are perfect for business events with

excellent facilities right on the ocean front.

SydneySydney is one of Australia’s most cosmopolitan cities

with meeting facilities and venues complemented by

sustainable urban practices. Known for its architecture,

the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge

make this city a very attractive MICE destination.

Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre,

Darling Harbour

and monorail station access. Ferries and water taxis

provide a unique alternative journey between the

Cities with MICE facilitiesCentre and the city’s harbourside attractions.

delegates, six exhibition halls and 30,000m2 of total

exhibition space.

productions and event management.

Signature Incentive Activities

journey will provide some breathtaking views.

Opera House. Popular as an events location, the

Opera House also caters Indian food.

on Sydney Harbour.

motorcycle en route to the famous Bondi Beach.

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country talk

Skyline of Sydney

Gold Coast With 70 km of coastline, theme parks, private islands,

35,000 accommodation rooms and more than 600

restaurants and cafes, Australia’s Gold Coast continues

to enhance its business events reputation through the

acquisition of major infrastructure, the growth of

unique venues and different incentive based activities.

The Gold Coast offers award-winning, purpose-built

convention venues combined with unique meeting

spaces. The city can cater up to 6,000 delegates.

Signature incentive activities

with an Australian surf instructor.

touring the houses of the rich and the famous.

your delegates in a private evening at the picturesque

location can be set up for intimate dinners,

complemented by the luxurious cruise home.

just metres from rare Bengal and Sumatran tigers.

Delegates can even pat the tigers.

to the island of Tangalooma, famous for feeding

dolphins, is an unparalleled experience.

Gold Coast

Convention and

Exhibition Centre

The Palazzo Versace the Gold Coast

Queensland, Australia

Gold Coast offers

award-winning,

purpose-built convention

venues combined with

unique meeting spaces.

Perth Convention Exhibition Centre has 15,000sqm of exhibition floor space and a plenary facility for 2,500 delegates, supported by 18 additional meeting rooms.

venue capacity

conversions to historic homes. The ‘Six Star Green Star’ rated Melbourne Convention Centre boasts a 5,500 seat plenary, 52 meeting rooms, grand banquet room and foyer for 8,400 guests. The integrated Melbourne Exhibition Centre is 30,000 sqm.

venue capacity


Melbourne A city of style and substance, Melbourne has more

than 25,500 rooms located in the Melbourne Tourist

Region with approximately 16,100 rooms in the City of

Melbourne and 9,400 in the central business district.

Incentive Options

at sunrise then sharpen your wine appreciation skills

at acclaimed vineyards.

vegetation program.

PerthThe sunniest city in the world, Perth boasts coastal

charm, colonial history, fantastic seafood and fabulous

wine. Perth has over 8,000 rooms to suit a variety

of budgets.

Incentive options

Coral Coast.

- pet koalas, wombats and other native wildlife at

Caversham Wildlife Park

of Perth’s iconic structures, the Bell Tower.

country talk

Above: South Wharf & Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Below: The bright green blob-like sculpture by Perth-born artist James Angus, at Forrest Place

Above: Formula One Grand Prix

Melbourne lures MICE travellers

MICE Initiative

GROUP SIZE MCB SUPPORT

100 – 299

Welcome Pack AWelcome bags, Official Visitors Guide,Melbourne mapSouvenir for every delegateWelcome banner at Melbourne AirportVIP gifts (numbers to be pre-determined)Welcome letter from MCB’s CEO

300-499

Welcome Pack AHosted pre-event site inspection includingground transfers, official meals andaccommodation for one delegate(3 days, 2 nights)

500 and above

Welcome Pack BWelcome speech by MCB’s CEO Hosted pre-event site inspection includingone economy flight, ground transfers,official meals and accommodationfor up to two delegates(3 days, 2 nights)Financial support towards use of theMelbourne Convention and ExhibitionCentre, if applicable(subject to government approval)

Melbourne moves strategically further in inviting incentive movement to Australia. MICEtalk puts forth their new incentive scheme to enhance group movement.

‘Melbourne Values You’ offers

(Support from Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB))

The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) has

teamed up with 30 of its members in the categories

of hotels, venues, attractions and team-building

companies to bring a series of special offers designed to

make booking and planning an event in Melbourne not

only seamless but cost effective.

The following table outlines the list of discounts or

complimentary services available through Melbourne’s

premier business events suppliers, which includes

everything from free Wi-Fi and hotel room upgrades

to reduced entry into attractions and on food and

beverage packages.

To take advantage of these offers, organisations must adhere to the

following criteria:

launch of this program in February 2013

Please note: Additional terms and conditions may apply.

All costs quoted are in Australian dollars.


Below: The Arts Centre, Melbourne

Dollar fluctuation makes India more attractive for MICEThe depreciating of the Indian rupee is ringing alarm bells across sectors in the country. The fluctuating dollar is on everyone’s mind. MICEtalk talks to some hotel stalwarts to know how the hotel industry is going to be affected and what is the next step forward? Read more...

let’s talk


let’s talk

VELLA RAMASAWMYGeneral Manager, Kempinski Ambience Hotel, Delhi

Witnessing Marginal Growth

We are ready to cater to large

format conferences along with World

congresses into India.

Hoping for Positive SignsJAGAN LASCHERGeneral Manager, Pullman Gurgaon Central Park

“MICE Industry dynamics are relatively sensitive to currency

more lucrative and competitive for large International Conferences vis-a-vis regional destinations like Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, etc.

In recent times, Indian hotels have seen increased dependency on domestic conferencing. Since a strong dollar has hit aviation fuel prices, resulting in hike in airfares, overall budgets for domestic conferences

India has become more lucrative and

competitive for large International

Conferences vis-a-vis regional

destinations like Singapore, Bangkok,

Hong Kong, etc.


Below: Lobby of Shangri-La, New Delhi

let’s talk

With greater buying power in India, we have

witnessed an increase in numbers from key

markets like UK and some unconventional

markets like Africa.

Expecting customers from new marketsSAURABH KHURANA Director of Business Development & MICE, Shangri-La’s - Eros Hotel, New Delhi

important to note that the rupee had depreciated by about 15-16 per cent against the greenback over the last six months and hence, the consumers have shifted their focus to non-dollar destinations.

the MICE Industry is building up of quality convention centres in the country in

Incentives Galore in New Zealand

Roaring Meg on the Kawarau River

incentive talk

New Zealand’s unforgettable mix of breath-taking natural landscapes and vibrant cosmopolitan centres makes it a perfect location for conferences, business events and incentive visitors. With companies increasingly looking at overseas incentive and team-building destinations, the country boasts of an array of activities and experiences.



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incentive talk

equipped to cater to different requirements and offer a range of Indian-style vegetarian options

travellers. Language is not a barrier as English is

USP of New Zealand

connectivityconnectivityconnectivityconnectivityconnectivity


Popular activities for incentive tripsCompanies can reward their best employees with all

manner of experiences, from exhilarating jet boat

safaris and heli-skiing to award winning food and

wine, luxurious spas and fascinating Māori cultural

experiences. There’s also a wide range of luxury

accommodation available, from lakeside villas with

awe-inspiring views to cliff-top lodges with world class

golf courses on site.

Wild on Waiheke

experience. Try archery, laser clay bird shooting and

brilliant team-building challenges such as the Great

Escape – an experience that is part ‘Amazing Race’,

part ‘Survivor Waiheke Island’.

3600 view of Auckland: The Only way to

experience the Auckland Harbour Bridge by foot!

Climb under, around, up and over one of Auckland’s

incentive talk

rafting, abseiling and other outdoor

activities near Dunedin.

experience with Adventure Waikato.

Don’t miss The Tomo Escape – abseil into

an underground world with your team and

work together to find your way out.

Agroventures, near Rotorua, race

against each other in teams of two on

the Schweeb – a unique pedal-powered

monorail circuit.

Scale New Zealand’s tallest building,

the Sky Tower, for a SkyWalk around the

tower’s spectacular outdoor walkway. A

full body harness and overhead safety lines

keep you safe as you gaze over Auckland

from 192m up.

Above: Sky Diving over Lake Taupo

Below: Race down a mountainside on a three-wheel luge kart at Skyline Rotorua


most iconic landmarks on this 1.5 hour personally

guided tour with extensive commentary.

Terrace Downs Resort for team-building

experiences in the foothills of the Southern Alps.

Options include clay target shooting and archery,

and there’s also a world-class golf course on site.

forest canopy in Queenstown. This

unique experience involves zipping through the trees

while harnessed to a zipwire or flying fox.

Nomad off-road adventure.

Moonlight Country

tailor-made team-building experiences including

orienteering, sheepdog trials, clay target shooting

and quad bike riding.

Mountain Biking: Rotorua has over 90 km of world-

class mountain biking trails – all located in lush

native forests - that are popular with both amateurs

and experts alike.

Milford Sound: Milford Sound is breathtaking

in any weather. The fiord’s cliffs rise vertically

from the dark waters, mountain peaks scrape

the sky and waterfalls cascade downwards.

Boat cruises are an excellent way to experience

the Sound.

Boomrock Lodge near

Wellington and experience rally car racing, all

terrain 4WD, archery, knife throwing, extreme golf,

clay target shooting and a chance to fly a helicopter.

Above: Challenge yourself with some adventurous outdoor activities in Queenstown

Below: Boasting steaming mineral pools and luxurious mud treatments, Rotorua is

a haven for relaxation.

domestic MICE

Owing to the boom in tourism, IT and the shipping sector, Kerala’s commercial capital is developing as the focal point for hospitality in the state. Used as a transit point, enough demand from MICE and leisure segments has helped in the evolution of the destination.

MICE and Leisure Drive New InventoryMegha Paul

in Kochi

Above: Lobby of Crowne Plaza, Kochi


This September, Kochi witnessed two important

events in the travel and hospitality sectors. The

Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO)

organised its 29th

Kochi and the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant

Associations of India (FHRAI) concluded its 48th

annual convention at the same venue. The region that

was earlier used more as a transit point was undersold

in Kerala. With a slew of events in the past and enough

demand from the MICE and leisure segments has

helped in the evolution of the destination.

According to Saji Joseph, General Manager,

Le Meridien Hotel, Kochi, MICE is not just about a

meeting but also about value proposition that offers

more to clients. Kerala has a lot to offer in terms of

cultural learning, culinary

journeys, Ayurveda and

wellness that clients can

take back. This makes it

easier for the hotels to

market the destination. In

South India, Kerala has

been considered a hub

for medical events. This

has been a flourishing

segment for long. With

new inventory coming in

the city, the hotels need

to market and showcase the destination globally for

other industrial and service segments.

Feels Shilendran M, Vice President-Sales, CGH

Earth, hotels in Kochi are based in two geographical

locations. One is the hotels in the region of Kakkanad,

which is the fastest

developing commercial

and IT destination. Hotels

in this area are mainly

focusing on corporate

segment, which has seen

a relative growth in the

last two years. “Thus,

prices are extremely

competitive. In the other

side of Fort Kochi, the

hotels cater to strictly

leisure clientele. This

side of Kochi needs to garner more investments

and gear up to emerge as a MICE destination,”

he informs.

Talking about the Kochi hospitality,

Sanjay Kaushik, General Manager, Crowne Plaza

Kochi, points out, “Kochi has emerged as a gateway

to Kerala in the last five years. The hospitality industry

has seen a major transformation from the city being

dominated by local and

regional players to the

launch of almost all major

global hospitality players.

Kochi was treated as a

typical transit destination

but now it has evolved as

an emerging destination

for MICE. The growth

in corporate and IT

segment has increased

tremendously since most

of the corporate giants

have anchored in the city with their corporate offices.

This has boosted the hotel industry by reducing

dependence on seasonal international leisure travellers.

Consequently, it has helped the industry to have an

equal mix of domestic and international or business and

leisure travellers.” The region is witnessing occupancy

of about 50 per cent in the luxury five-star category,

he adds.

domestic MICE

Below: Holiday Inn, Kochi

Hotels in this area are mainly

focusing on corporate segment,

which has seen a relative

growth in the last two years.

yours officially

“England

England is not an unfamiliar destination to Indians and London has always been a favourite place for MICE and leisure travellers. Reem Khokhar, Regional Manager – Asia Pacific, VisitEngland, in conversation with MICEtalk clarifies some misconceptions related to visa clearance, shopping in London, etc., and provides vital information related to MICE opportunities in the country.

What kind of growth do you see from India in the MICE segment?Business visitor numbers from India to England was

approximately 90,000 in 2012. We’re hoping to see an

increase of at least an additional GBP 2 million worth

of business.

How do you intend to position England in India?England is synonymous of world-class facilities,

variety, accessibility and a truly memorable

experience. You can explore the excellent range of

world class conferencing facilities across the country –

from Brighton to NewcastleGateshead; unique venues

for meetings or gala dinners like Spitbank Fort where

you could have a lovely private island reserved for the

group or a stunning gala dinner in Bath at the Roman

Baths and Pump House with an atmospheric backdrop

of the steam rising over the hot water springs, the

torches alight with the magnificent Bath Abbey rising

up in the background.

There are other Asian destinations which get a major chunk of the Indian MICE traffic. What are you doing to increase your market share?As groups look for new experiences and destinations,

we feel that England has a very strong offering. There is

a familiarity, yet a novelty attached to the image of the

country, because there are so many great destinations

and experiences that MICE groups may not know of

and are intrigued when they learn about how much

more is on offer.

We reach out to various stakeholders in building

awareness and promoting the destination. Attending

events like IBTM India and other MICE B2B events

to network with MICE operators, associations and

corporates. We also do one-on-one meetings in a

few key cities and have participated in corporate

networking events. Destination training in the metros

along with the other British tourism partners for the

travel trade; as well as in-office trainings on request

for sales teams; and MICE brochures with a few key

operators, are ways in which we are working to increase

awareness and reach out to the relevant audience.

Media FAM trips and some online promotional

activity for MICE organisers across the Asia-Pacific

region are also in the pipeline.

What kind of challenges do you face dealing with the Indian market specially with big MICE groups?

Our biggest challenge is changing perceptions –

expense being something that comes up sometimes.

England is a compact country. If in a city, you’re never very far from the countryside. Thus you can easily integrate a varied landscape into your itinerary – planning a fun treasure hunt in the countryside for a day or adventure sports like coasteering around the coastal parts of the country.

accessibility

Offering exclusive MICE opportunities


yours officially

“England has so much to offer to MICE

groups. Many organisers may not be

aware that on certain components of

MICE trips, one can claim the value

added tax and may save up to 20

percent of the total costs.

one can get some really cost-effective options as well

do come down as well as prices for accommodation;

something we are working on.

The perception that visas are hard to get is

misleading – as most Indians who apply for a business

or visitor visa get one. Yes, it does involve some

visa applications in 2012 and issued almost 102,000.

They received 56,000 business visa applications in

2012 and issued almost 54,000. The advantage for

MICE groups are that their timing of their travels are

pre-decided, which gives one enough time to plan for

a group.

Above: Newcastle Gateshead

Below: Royal Pavilion2, Brighton


Explore Russia’s

Date: March 19–22, 2014Venue: Expocentre, Krasnaya Presnya, Moscow

Russia’s largest and most established travel and tourism

exhibition, MITT’s 21st edition brings together the industry’s

most influential professionals to explore Russia’s fast-growing

outbound tourism market.

With over 3,000 participating companies and 198 destinations, MITT is an excellent strategic meeting place for

the international travel industry and an opportunity to catch up with current and potential clients. It enables

participants to increase awareness of their destination, gain a real feel for the Russian travel market and gauge

the demand for their services. MITT welcomes both trade and consumer visitors, with specific ‘trade only’ days.

accessible by a network of public transport links.

Over the four days during MITT, an intensive business programme will be held in 15 conference halls. It will

include press conferences, presentations of new destinations and services, seminars, master-classes and other

events. For more details visit www.mitt.ru.

event talk

tourism marketat MITT

Frankly, your preference has no impact on the

schedule departure time. So you can sweat it,

stress it or shun it, that flight will take off just when

it is supposed to. Even though there may be technical

delays, the only thing that is relevant is that you know

you will make it to your next destination.

Now reflect at life from the same angle. We are all

ambitious and we have goals and we keep waiting for

the right opportunities that will take us to our next

level, the next destination. Again what is relevant

is that we know what the next destination is. We

continue to direct our efforts in the right direction and

have faith that we will reach where we want. But also

remember things will happen when they are supposed

to – The flight will take off when it is supposed to.

A lot of stress happens in life when we don’t get

what we desire immediately. So if you feel you are ready

for a raise or a promotion and it doesn’t happen one

loses faith and is frustrated but if you knew in advance

that the promotion was a year away and there was a

logical reason why it didn’t come through right away –

I guess you could crib but would you still get stressed

about it. ?

Everybody recommends that we live in the

‘present’, but sometimes the ‘present’ becomes a little

Shabnam Mehra

How often have you strategised on the correct time to reach the airport to catch a flight and how often have you gotten the timing perfect? You could keep a big margin and factor all obstacles and yet at times you rival an Olympic champ making the final 100m dash all the way to the aircraft. While some other occasions leave you with time enough to twiddle your thumbs and regret your own punctuality. Well! Which situation do you prefer?

too overwhelming. Overawed, we start defining our

entire life with that one lens and the big picture gets

hazy. To make the big picture a lot clearer, we need

to remember that the future is only a moment away

and will bring with it, a lot of new perspectives, new

insights, deeper understanding and a whole lot of

fresh opportunities.

So sit back and relax, and ponder on the proverb

‘This too shall pass’. And after you have absorbed

the essence, analyse your options (and if you are

truly positive in your approach, then analyse your

opportunities), and consider what actions can you

take? And like the fly by wire technologies that

planes use to overcome turbulence, glide back to your

chosen route.

There will be some around you who will cry in

alarm, but they are only voicing their fears. You are

responsible for the way your life shapes up so take

charge. Taking charge does not stop you from seeking

support but just reinforces your desire to move ahead.

So you can still debate the time you want to reach the

airport but choose to accept the outcome as only a

step in the long journey ahead.

For further details contact

[email protected]

expert talk

Life Management



Apart from high-profile destination weddings, luxury car launches, it has hosted prestigious exhibitions like World Crafts Council

Madras Week celebrations and art exhibitions in support of noble causes, to name just a few.

past events

Neha Oberoi

A tribute to Southern India’s greatest empires – the Imperial Cholas, The ITC Grand Chola is located in Guindy in close proximity to Chennai’s business district. It is also the closest luxury hotel to the IT hub on the Old Mahabalipuram Road. The hotel boasts 522 rooms and 78 serviced apartments.

hotel talk

Offering

ITC Grand Chola

Exhibiting International MICE Potential


hotel talk

The ITC Grand Chola is 7 kms from the domestic and

international airport and the proposed metro line is

just a stone’s throw away.

Convention space

Rajendra is one of the country’s largest pillar-less

banquet halls and can accommodate a floating crowd

of 3000. It has its own pre-function area of 1584 m2

and can be divided into eight separate halls, each with

sound proofing possibility. Hence, it facilitates hosting

multiple functions simultaneously.

elevator capable of accommodating luxury cars, drop

Kaveri meeting rooms are four spaces, of a total area of

240 m2. Keeping in sync with individual requirements,

these 4 boardrooms can seat 12 guests each and

are versatile enough to be merged into one distinct

meeting space.

Tanjore is equipped with futuristic boardroom

cameras which can be controlled directly from the

table and drop-down screens. Spread across 980 sq ft,

it can seat 24 persons.

Cuisine & Relaxation

ITC’s tradition of culinary excellence is reflected in:

the Royal Vega - luxury vegetarian cuisine of India,

Ottimo – the Italian kitchen, Pan Asian, the Indian

North West Frontier Cuisine at Peshawri, the all-day

dining at Café Mercara Express, the finest three-

meal buffet experience at Madras Pavilion, sinful

indulgences at Nutmeg – the Gourmet Shop and The

Cheroot –

This is further complemented by ITC’s

internationally acknowledged indigenous spa

brand, Kaya Kalp – The Royal Spa and The Marina

pool complex.

Customised MICE

ITC Grand Chola offers several options for MICE

which can be customised in accordance with the

preferences of its guests.

Premium Meetings allows you to arrange meetings

amidst luxurious environs as you choose from an

array of gastronomic delights specially crafted and

customised for your requirements.

Dynamic Meetings provide the perfect blend of

business and pleasure. Enjoy your meetings with a

delightful culinary mix in its grandest setting.

business meetings with our Meet & Dine option.

Green Meetings

conducted with efforts to reduce carbon footprint. The

deliverables, right from the emissions of the lighting

they use to the size of the dinner plates, add towards a

greener tomorrow.

Imperial Exhibitions

ITC Grand Chola presents dynamic spaces, enhanced

by futuristic technology and state-of-the-art features,

making it the preferred choice for exhibitions and

expos. Their dedicated team of professionals provide

seamless support in designing, planning and executing

your event. Imperial Exhibitions can be tailor-made to

your needs.

location

Zambhala A Unique Yoga Festival

Elaborate on Zambhala, its significance and how did

you feel the need to organise a yoga festival?

India’s domestic wellness and spiritual tourism market

is growing at a healthy rate, and of course, Zambhala

will act as a focus for it. Zambhala is the largest festival

of Yoga, Spirituality, Music and Dance ever organised

in India. It features many from India and the world’s

greatest experts in the five classical forms of Indian

Yoga, together with masters from the US, France,

Canada and South East Asia.

How have Corporates accepted Yoga within their

business events?

Certainly in the USA, where over 20.4 million adults

(8.7 per cent of the adult population) practice Yoga,

corporate Yoga has become a mainstay of many

internal HR and fitness programmes. In India, where,

in a sense, Yoga is ‘in us’, the organised corporate sector

has been slow to take it up - but we have no doubt that

we are at the rising edge of a very large wave.

What does India offer in terms of spiritual tourism?

Spiritual Inbound Tourism into India is dominated

by Yoga and the culture and practice of staying in an

Ashram. The different spiritual practices that attract

tourists are myriad: At Zambhala, in addition to

covering the most important 5 schools of Indian Yoga,

along with many other forms of Yoga, we are featuring

speakers and experts of different spiritual and health

related disciplines: for example, past life regression,

pranic healing, meditation, dream interpretation,

fitness, dance therapy, together with the world’s

leading Nutritionists and naturotherapists.

Why have you chosen Goa as a venue for this festival?

Goa still retains the purity of the 1960’s experience: a

clean beach, waving palms, a laid back and welcoming

energy. And also, we have on the 21st and 22nd

December a huge captive audience in Goa to enjoy

themselves, and, we hope, they will experience a

world that is entirely different from their normal

urban existence.

Differentiate Zambhala from other yoga festivals and

mention its USP.

Zambhala is different, it is unique for India in that

it brings together many worlds - Yoga, Spirituality,

Fitness, Diet, Health, Mental and Physical balance -

and places them gently within a luxurious, modern

and comfortable festival environment. We will have

music and dance.

Do you practice yoga and how does it benefit you?

I do, and it helps me strengthen - physically and

mentally - my ability to deal with a busy work and

home life.

Martin da Costa, CEP,

70 EMG

event talk

December 21-22, 2013Goa


etiquette talk

Shital Kakkar MehraPractitioner of Corporate Etiquette and International Protocol in India

The recent furor over the ‘casual’ handshake extended by Microsoft founder Bill Gates to South Korea President Park Geun-hye raised several questions – Was it a case of cultural differences or plain bad manners? Also, was Bill Gates trying to show superiority by tucking one hand in his trouser pocket while extending the other to the Korean President?

the Right HandshakeTips for

American President Obama’s

greeting style came under fire

when he extended a combination

of a handshake and an awkward

90 degrees bow to the

Japanese Emperor.


Handshakes in politics grab attention. American

President Obama’s greeting style came

under fire when he extended a combination

of a handshake and an awkward 90 degrees bow to

the Japanese Emperor. Bill Clinton’s smiling face as

Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestinian

leader Yasser Arafat shake hands was a high point of

his presidency. Closer home, Rahul Gandhi’s unique

demonstration of China’s strong ‘push-you-down’

tactics by extending a bone-crusher to the host at a

high-powered industry meet was much talked about.

Tips for a good handshake

Right hand: At meetings and networking events, keep

your right hand ready for a handshake. Hold your

folder or drink in the left hand (the condensation from

a chilled drink can make your hands clammy).

Body language: Handshakes create the best impact

when accompanied with direct eye contact and

a smile. While shaking hands, never look over

the person’s shoulder in a bid to spot a more

important person.

Present correctly: Keep your hand perpendicular

when extending for a handshake; palm down can be

viewed intimidating or aggressive while palm up is

translated as subservient in body language.

Convey warmth: Extend a flat palm and connect

with the other person’s web (skin between thumb and

index finger).

LORDS Expanding Horizons

Keep your hand

perpendicular when

extending for a handshake

Handshakes to avoid

Bone-crusher: This macho handshake is extra firm

and displays physical power. It intimidates the other

person and non-verbally conveys that you like to

maintain a dominant position.

Limp handshake: This kind of handshake conveys

lack of self-esteem and confidence.

Glove handshake: Common amongst political

leaders, it involves covering the person’s hand

with both your hands to subtly signal ‘I am there

for you’. This handshake is ideal for funerals and

condolence meetings.

Extended handshakes: Pumping the hand several

times and refusing to let go is embarrassing and

creates awkwardness.

Recently, Lords was awarded as ‘The New Fastest Growing Hotel

Chain’ for the second time in a row.

Before getting any property on board,

importance and value of MICE travellers.

Abiding by the rule with 19 operational

and board rooms at 13 of its properties.

Namely: Ankleshwar, Surat, Silvassa,

Bhavnagar, Kandla, Jaipur, Kathgodam,

Porbandar, Rajula, Saputara and

our Kathgodam Hotel has the largest

banquet in town and Silvassa Hotel

has 5400 sq ft of pillar-less banquet.

Addressing to the need of corporates,

and do arrangements accordingly.

It is no secret that exhibitors attend events in order to find new business, re-establish existing relationships and demonstrate products and services. New tools, marketing methods and communication systems add greater value to an exhibitor’s participation; before, during and after the event.

technology

Providing exhibitors with revenue generating leads

The fully-customisable software integrates with the event’s existing website and also offers new and exciting revenue generating products.


Darren Edwards is the founder of Invisage Creative

Services in Australia. With more than 20 years’

experience and knowledge in the meetings and events

industry, Darren continues to drive creativity in events

and the way they are run.

Contact: [email protected]

about the author

Th In recent years, Event Apps have become a

dynamic promotional and resource sharing

tool that exhibitors have been able to harness

and exploit. Recent enhancements to these apps,

such as true leads modules (not basic business card

capture scanners) which allow real-time lead capture

and analysis, have added additional real return on

investment for exhibitors.

New Software Platform

GoExpo, founded in 2008, is the tradeshow

software designed to bring more qualified buyers

to exhibitor booths by matching attendees to their

product interests.

It provides a private social networking platform,

an online exhibitor directory, interactive floor plan,

dashboard emails, newsletters, an online conference/

speaker system, show planners, booth contracts,

segment marketing, social networking, messaging,

appointment scheduling, a self-service portal,

exhibitor email invitations, 3rd party support,

mobile apps, and many other easy-to-use features

that enhance the show experience for the attendees,

exhibitors and show management.

GoExpo integrates seamlessly with leading event

apps, allowing registrants to immediately access the

system upon the completion of their registration

and exhibitors to immediately access the system

upon completion of their booth contract. Using the

attendees’ demographic profiles, GoExpo’s search

engine returns recommended exhibitors, products

and seminar matches in real-time. Attendees can

easily add these recommendations to their planner,

or contact exhibitors for more information via the

internal GoExpo messaging system.

In addition to traditional sponsorship

opportunities, exhibitors can purchase enhanced

product listings and entries in an online (or onsite)

product showcase. All purchases are handled online

through the secure e-commerce interface in GoExpo

or can be entered manually when the event wishes to

collect payments directly.

For more info visit www.goexposoftware.com

technology

Movements

The Suryaa, New Delhi appoints new GMThe Surya announces the appointment of Pankaj Mathur as its new GM. Pankaj comes with a rich experience of over two decades and has worked significantly with International Hotel Chains like Starwood, Hyatt, Marriott, Oberois, Taj and ITC Welcomgroup. In his new role, he will help enhance the image of the organisation through directing the operations of the business with focus on identifying and managing growth opportunities; to rebrand and reposition The Suryaa as singularly the main choice among the leading hotels of New Delhi.

Sheraton Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway appoints

Director Sales & MarketingDebanjan Kundu is the new Director Sales & Marketing of Sheraton Bangalore

Hotel at Brigade Gateway. With over 10 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, Debanjan has demonstrated

capabilities in evolving innovative sales and promotional strategies. Prior to

joining Sheraton Bangalore, he was the Director of Sales at Westin Hyderabad

Mindspace and was associated with Starwood since

March 2011.

Park Inn by Radisson Gurgaon Bilaspur appoints new GM Akash Roy Saigal is the new GM for Park Inn by

Radisson Gurgaon Bilaspur. He has 13 years of hospitality experience, out of which he worked as General Manager at The Palms Town and Country Club, Gurgaon for three years. A great team player, he is well-versed in maintaining the positioning of the brand in a competitive market.

Tourism New Zealand appoints Country Manager, Marketing Communications Manager and PR Manager Neha Bola joins Tourism New Zealand as Country Manager. Neha has over 12 years of experience in the travel and tourism space with experience in Business Development, Product Development, Contracting, Sales, Operations, and CRM.

Nisha D’souza has been appointed to the role of Marketing Communications Manager.

She has rich experience of working with Blue Square Consultants, Cox & Kings, and Ogilvy One.

Naomi Lobo is the new PR Manager. She has previously handled media relations for Korea Tourism Organisation, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Star Cruises and Resorts World Sentosa.

Shangri-La’s - Eros Hotel, New Delhi, appoints Director of

CommunicationsAnjori Kumar is the new Director of Communications of Shangri-La’s - Eros Hotel.

With a Masters in Public Relations and Communication, Anjori comes with over 6 years of resonance in strategic Public Relations, Brand Building, Integrated Marketing Communications and Press Relations.

The Lalit Chandigarh welcomes new GMAshish Gawari is the new General Manager of the The Lalit Chandigarh, moving from his previous role as General Manager of the The Lalit Srinagar. In his new role, he will be responsible for the management of this business property which is also a recent venture of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group.

DD


eventscalendar

events

EVENT VENUE/PLACE CITY/COUOUOUOUOUNTRY DATE

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Postal Registration No.:DL(ND)/6150/2011-12-13WPP No.:U(C)-305/2011-13

for Posting on 29th-30th of Advance Month at New Delhi P.S.O.Date of Publication: 22/10/2013, RNI No.:DELENG/2010/34144

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