Gd may june issue 2018 double spread

E d i t
Global DestinationsMay - June 2018 1
Dear Friends
As with every year India had substantial presence at ITB 2018 with over 100 +
exhibitors and co-exhibitors comprising of tour operators, hoteliers, DMCs etc. At the
ITB the Indian delegation by the Minister of State (Independent charge) for Tourism K.
J. Alphons along with a few key Tourism Ministry officials. While most exhibitors
benefitted by interacting with International travelers, it was the winning of the "Best
Exhibitor Award” for Australia and Oceania category at the World`s largest Tourism
exhibition ITB (Internationale Tourismus Borse) 2018 in Messe, Berlin, Germany that
brought a cheer among both Indian expats and Indians at home. The Icing on the cake was
the tremendous success of the Ministry of Tourism’s new campaign Film “Yogi on the
Race Track” which was launched during the Indian press conference in ITB. Since its
launch on 7th March 2018, the film has had 7 Million views on twitter which is growing
by the hour.
As MICE in India is on the rise in this issue our cover story coincides with IMEX,
Frankfurt - the worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meetings and events. If you’re
a meeting and event professional then this is the right place to be as you can interact with
3,500-plus destinations, venues and suppliers from 150-plus countries in one place – from
major hotel groups and venues to the latest event tech providers. This year Indian
presence is also substantial.
We have also taken the views of two stalwarts from India = Chander Mansharamani,
MD, Alpcord Network Travel & Conferences Management Company and Amaresh
Tiwari, MD, A T & Seasons Vacations Travel Pvt. Ltd. to focus on Indian MICE Industry
The most remarkable sensation at IMEX will be in the Dark Room where participants
will taste the extra sensory experience of an educational session in pitch black total
darkness. This ‘Learning Lab’ will feature at IMEX as a result of the new IMEX Group
partnership with C2 International, the ground-breaking leader in innovative business
conferences. The partnership represents a joint effort to drive innovation and creativity
throughout the meetings and events sector.
This time in our Heritage section we have focused on UNESCO World Heritage Sites
and their importance. As of 2017 there are 1,073 WHS listed: 832 cultural, 206 natural,
and 35 mixed properties, in 167 states. A special focus is on Indian World Heritage Sites.
India has now 36 World Heritage Sites and that makes India among one of the top
countries globally in terms of a number of world heritage sites.
As HITEX, Hyderabad gears up to host its own IEIA event – an Annual Conclave of
the Indian Exhibition Industry where the Indian Exhibition Industry comes together along
with international delegates just a week before IMEX, Frankfurt we caught up with KV
Nagendra Prasad, COO – HITEX. Also HITEX completes 15 years of successful
operation.
We have also focused on CES the world’s largest tech show with almost all the brands
(except Apple) vying for space to attract the audience and media. For us journalists it
leaves us physically and mentally exhausted as we try to visit as many press conferences,
keynotes, exhibitors spread across five venues. But its 100% that we in media cannot miss
as it gives us an insight into the next 12 months.
This year was no different as more than 3,900 exhibitors showcased world-changing
technologies that spanned more than 2.75 million net square feet of exhibit space across
Las Vegas – the largest show floor in CES’ 51 year history. From major international
brands to the more than 900 startups (the startup section witnessed a substantial jump)
participating in Eureka Park (home for CES startups) CES 2018.
Editor - Chandragupta Amritkar, Managing Editor - Chandra Talware, Design - Manoj Durgam
Contact - Global Destinations, B-701, Customs Colony, Military Rd, Marol, Andheri(E), Mumbai-400 059, India.
Phone - 91-22-29252569, Mobile - 9223419060 / 9969935878 e-mail: globalfeatures@rediffmail.com
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Printed and Published by Chandragupta Amritkar on behalf of Global Features B-701, Customs Colony, Military Rd, Marol, Andheri(E), Mumbai-400 059
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Global Technologies makes all efforts to ensure that the information published is correct and reliable. However the publication holds no responsibility for
any inadvertent errors, commissions or opinions expressed.
Chandragupta Amritkar
Editor
chandraguptaa@hotmail.com
editor@globalfeatures.info
An Indian publication, Global Destinations
framed in a Ministers office

Heritage
C o n t e n t s
Global Destinations May - June 20184
Cover Story
IMEX
............................18
Event Review
ITB 2018
........................06
ITB China
.........................15
Curtain Raiser
World Heritage Sites
............................10
Express Inn
............................20
Renaissance
............................22
Fern
............................26

E v e n t R e v i e w
A
s with every year India had substantial
presence at ITB 2018. This is evident from the
fact that India took a large space for the India
Pavilion in which over 50 co-exhibitors comprising
tour operators, hoteliers etc. from different parts of
India participate. Additionally, over 25 Indian stake-
holders participated with booking space outside India
pavilion. This event also saw a participation of many of
our State Tourism Departments. The Incredible India
stand at ITB Berlin showcased Indian culture with live
henna and meditation sessions. Many guests both
Indian and International relished the ‘samosas’ and
other Indian delicacies.
While most exhibitors benefitted by interacting with Interna-
tional travelers, it was the winning of the "Best Exhibitor Award”
for Australia and Oceania category at the World`s largest Tourism
exhibition ITB (Internationale Tourismus Borse) 2018 in Messe,
Berlin, Germany that brought a cheer among both Indian expats
and Indians at home
At the ITB the Indian delegation by the Minister of State (Inde-
pendent charge) for Tourism K. J. Alphons along with a few key
Tourism Ministry officials. On winning the award K. J. Alphons
said, “"These are the biggest awards in the world and India was
the big hit in Germany. It's the first time India has won this prize
and I would like to thank the prime minister for keep the Indian
flag flying high."
He further added that the Icing on the cake was the tremendous
success of the Ministry of Tourism’s new campaign Film “Yogi
on the Race Track” which he had launched during his press con-
ference in ITB. Since its launch on 7th March 2018, the film has
had 7 Million views on twitter which is growing by the hour.
The tourism sector in India is registering continuous growth
which is significantly higher than the World Average. Foreign
Tourist arrivals during 2017 were 10.18 Million with a growth of
15.6% over same period of the previous year while global growth
of foreign tourists is only about 5%. e-Visa continues to be game
changer for tourism sector. It is now available for nationals of 163
countries and allows visits for business and medical treatment.
The Ministry of Tourism is developing a new Incredible India
website, leveraging the latest trends in technology for promotion
and marketing of our country, to provide enhanced visitor experi-
ence with personalization and to realise the objectives of the
Incredible India 2.0 campaign.
Suman Billa, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government
of India said, “Travellers when they come to India, stay longer
and spend more. The number of visitors we get is less but the
amount of money we spend is disproportionately higher.”
The Minister said that ITB was a big platform to showcase
India’s tourism product to the global tourism fraternity. At the
ITB the Indian delegation met and discussed about the opportuni-
ties that India has for international tourism with multiple stake-
holders, media persons and opinion makers.
ITB Berlin again tastes success and growth
Spread over five days, more than 10,000 companies and organ-
isations from 186 countries and regions exhibited their products
to visitors in 26 halls on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds during
ITB attracting around 110,000 trade visitors from Germany and
abroad. Once again, there was a high percentage of buyers in a
decision-making capacity: two-thirds of trade visitors said they
were directly authorised to make buying decisions for travel
India wins Best Exhibitor Award at ITB 2018
Launching Global Destinations ITB
special Issue at the hands of
K. J. Alphons, Indian Tourism Minister
E v e n t R e v i e w
products. Around 74 per cent of the ITB Buyers Circle attended
in a decision-making capacity, with budgets that exceeded one
million euros. More than one-third of the buyers present even had
ten million euros and more at their disposal.
The main reason for the industry’s positive mood is the positive
economic climate in the eurozone which according to leading
economic institutes is better than at any time since the turn of the
millennium. Dr. Christian Göke, CEO of Messe Berlin
GmbH,“The consistent forecasts of sustained global economic
growth for the next two
years decisively con-
tributed to the positive
mood among exhibitors
and visitors these past few
days. Against the backdrop
of a booming economy,
record low employment
and good wage settlements,
more and more consumers
are willing to spend money.
Furthermore, because of
the strong euro and corre-
spondingly weak dollar
holidaying in numerous
countries outside the
eurozone is becoming
noticeably cheaper.”
At this year’s ITB Berlin
attention focused on the
partner region Mecklen-
burg-Vorpommern. It
organised the opening ceremony, which for the first time left a
zero-carbon footprint. The huge prospects that medical tourism
has to offer the global tourism industry were highlighted at ITB
Berlin. Due to high demand this segment, which was introduced
only last year at ITB, was relocated to a larger hall (21b). This
year again, Travel Technology was one of the segments which
displayed strong growth. Exhibitors including eNett, Traso,
Triptease and Paymentwall, which increased their display areas,
returning exhibitors, among them Travelport, as well as the Hos-
pitality Industry Club, a newcomer, highlighted the excellent
prospects of this fast-growing segment. The large increase in
Chinese exhibitors there was particularly noticeable. The online
portal Ctrip displayed its products in Berlin for the first time.
Two new formats celebrated their debut in Berlin, reflecting
strong growth in the Luxury Travel segment. With the new Loop
Lounge @ ITB organised in collaboration with Loop, the trade
show for luxury products, ITB Berlin had created a new platform
for networking in an exclusive atmosphere with a select group of
exhibitors, and with the first ITB Luxury Late Night the show
provided an opportunity for visitors to cultivate contacts.
Currently, luxury travel accounts for seven per cent of the market
and annual growth is in double-digit figures. David Ruetz, head
of ITB Berlin, “Luxury travel is booming and with our innovative
formats we are respond-
ing to this welcome
development. With this
initiative we are also
establishing ourselves in
a role that devotes even
more attention to this
growth market and are
showcasing this trend on
the exhibition grounds.”
The ITB Berlin Con-
vention, which examined
current issues such as
overtourism and digitali-
sation, also underlined
its role as the global
travel industry’s leading
think tank. ITB hosted
around 150 sessions
featuring over 300 out-
standing speakers, the
event was also a success.
The next ITB Berlin will take place from 6 to 10 March 2019.
Malaysia will be the official partner country.
It was during ITB that my good old friend Nicole von
der Ropp, PR Manager IFA Communications, Messe
Berlin introduced me to her colleague who looks
after all ITB events - Julia Wegener, PR Manager, ITB
Events. Meeting this extremely nice and friendly girl
Julia was a pleasure. She was keen on promoting
her travel shows especially ITB Asia and ITB China
to the Indian, Asian and Middle East market where
our publication Global Destinations has a good
reach. Seeing the potential for our readers too, we
at Global Destinations have extended our support to
all the ITB events.
Dr. Michael Frenzel, President of the Federal Association of the German Tourism
Industry (BTW); Michael Müller, Governing Mayor of Berlin; Dr. Christian Göke, CEO
of Messe Berlin; Dr. Angela Merkel, Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of
Germany; Manuela Schwesig , Minister President of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern;
Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary General of the World Tourism Organization
(UNWTO) (l.t.r.)

"Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today,
and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and
natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspira-
tion"
One of my journalist friend asked me “You travel so much -
how many World Heritage Site have you visited and do you know
of any tourist who has visited every single UNESCO on the
planet?”
This got me thinking. Having visited 40 countries and select
ones like Germany – 50+ times, I wasn’t sure how many World
Heritage Sites (WHS) I had visited. I knew for sure it would be
very difficult for any tourist to visit every single UNESCO on the
planet as during the annual session of the World Heritage
Committee at least 15-20 sites get added to the list every year.
As of 2017 there are 1,073 WHS listed: 832 cultural, 206
natural, and 35 mixed properties, in 167 states. The Table of
World Heritage Sites by country lists Italy as the home for the
largest number of sites with 53, followed by China (52), Spain
(46), France (43), Germany (42), India (36), Mexico (34) and
United Kingdom and British Overseas Territories (31). India
ranks 6th amongst them by acquiring 36 sites and also tops
among South Asian countries.
The list is maintained by the international World Heritage
Program administered by the UNESCO World Heritage
Committee, composed of 21 UNESCO member states which are
elected by the UN General Assembly.
Importance of World Heritage Site
If you travel even irregular, there is a good chance that you
have already visited one or more WHS probably without even
knowing it or have been close to one and not visited it. In recent
past travel agents and tour operators have been suggesting their
clients to visit cities with WHS. Similarly countries and states are
without fail adding "UNESCO WHS" located in their
country/state/city in all their marketing materials (though unfor-
tunately many are not pumping in money for sites in need of
restoration and protection). Another major point is many tourists
are misguided by local guides, tourism organisations and get
confused between tentative heritage list with the actual heritage
site list.
H e r i t a g e
Visiting World Heritage Sites is now on the agenda of most tourists – those visiting India and Indians
travelling abroad. But it’s not just visiting and appreciating its beauty, it’s also about preserving these
for our future generations feels Chandragupta Amritkar.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
What is a World Heritage Site?
A World Heritage Site is a cultural or natural landmark that has
been recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). These sites are deemed
worthy of preservation due to their universal value to humanity,
both in the present and for future generations.
According to the 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection
of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, a site must possess
‘outstanding universal value’ and meet at least one of the ten
Cultural and Natural criteria. These include diversity of human
values, development of urban or settlement form, reference to
history or living traditions (Cultural), or superlative natural
phenomena, exemplifying geological, biological and ecological
processes, or in-situ preservation of biodiversity (Natural).
There are three types of sites: cultural, natural,
and mixed. Cultural heritage sites include
hundreds of historic buildings and town sites,
important archaeological sites, and works of monumental
sculpture or painting. Natural heritage sites are restricted to those
natural areas that (1) furnish outstanding examples of Earth’s
record of life or its geologic processes, (2) provide excellent
examples of ongoing ecological and biological evolutionary
processes, (3) contain natural phenomena that are rare, unique,
superlative, or of outstanding beauty, or (4) furnish habitats for
rare or endangered animals or plants or are sites of exceptional
biodiversity. Mixed heritage sites contain elements of both
natural and cultural significance. The ratio of cultural to natural
sites on the World Heritage List is roughly 3 to 1.
The World Heritage Convention entered into force on
December 17, 1975, and in 1978 the World Heritage List was
created. Twelve sites were inscribed to the list in its inaugural
year, among them Aachen Cathedral (Germany), the Galapagos
Islands (Ecuador), L’Anse aux Meadows (Canada), the rock
churches of Lalībela (Ethiopia), the Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal
Salt Mines (Poland), and Yellowstone National Park (United
States). Over the years the list has expanded and has 1,073 WHS
listed from 167 countries.
Every year in June/July the World Heritage Committee meets
to review the state of conservation of World Heritage sites,
inscribes new sites on the World Heritage List, and attends to
other matters involved in the implementation of the World
Heritage Convention.
The World Heritage Committee’s 42nd session is to be hosted
by Bahrain from 24 June to 4 July 2018, in Manama, Bahrain.
Sources and Photos – UNESCO, Wikipedia and Ministry of
tourism
H e r i t a g e
Regions Cultural site Natural site Mixed Site Total sites No of Countries Contributed
Africa 51 37 5 93 35
Arab States 74 5 3 82 18
177 64 12 253 36
Europe and North America 434 62 10 506 50
96 38 5 139 28
Total 832 206 35 1073 167
Overview of UNESCO World Heritage Sites by region specific

India has now 36 World Heritage Sites listed by UNESCO and
that makes India among one of the top countries globally in terms
of a number of world heritage sites. The few ones that caught my
attention include
Taj Mahal
One of Seven Wonders of the World the Taj Mahal is truly a
beauty – a wonderful white marble Mughal architecture. Built in
Agra between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor
Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, the Taj Mahal is the
jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired
masterpieces of the world's heritage. A style that combines
elements from Persian, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles.
Khajuraho
A feast to every adult’s eyes, the Temples of Khajuraho with
their erotic sculptures are the most graphic example of erotic
temple art probably in the world. Some of these erotic depictions
and sexual positions can be very difficult to implement. All said
and done these ancient temples depict some of the finest art in the
world. Built between 950-1050 AD by the Chandela Dynasty,
these temples depict various forms like meditation, spiritual
teachings, kinship, wrestling, royalty and most significantly,
erotic art.
Sanchi
The Buddhist monuments at Sanchi are classic illustrations of
Mauryan Art and Architecture in the form of stupas, holy shrines
and monasteries of the Buddha. The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one
of the oldest stone
structures in India
and was originally
commissioned by
the emperor Ashoka
in the 3rd century
BCE. Sanchi is the
center of a region
with a number of
stupas.
Hampi
Hampi is an ancient village dotted with numerous ruined
temple complexes from the Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi
predates the Vijayanagara Empire; there is evidence of Ashokan
epigraphy, and it is mentioned in the Ramayana and the Puranas
of Hinduism as Pampaa Devi Tirtha Kshetra. Almost all of the
monuments were built between 1336 and 1570 CE during the
Vijayanagara rule. The site has about 1,600 monuments and
covers 41.5 square kilometres. The Virupaksha temple is the
oldest shrine, the principal destination for pilgrims and tourists,
and remains an active Hindu worship site. The wedding
ceremony of Shiva and Parvati is celebrated every year at the
Virupaksha Temple, as it has been for centuries. The Vitthala
temple has a Garuda shrine in the form of a stone chariot in the
courtyard is an often-pictured symbol of Hampi.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) a
brilliant specimen of the Victorian Gothic style of architecture in
H e r i t a g e
World Heritage Sites in India
H e r i t a g e
India. Its remarkable stone dome, turrets, pointed arches and
eccentric ground plan are close to traditional Indian palace archi-
tecture. It is an outstanding example of the meeting of two
cultures, as British architects worked with Indian craftsmen to
include Indian architectural tradition and idioms thus forging a
new style unique to Bombay. To date, the building retains most of
the architectural designs.
Elephanta Caves
Located 10 km from the shore of Mumbai Elephanta Caves are
a network of seven cave excavations in the Elephanta group and
these are datable
from circa 6th –
7th centuries A.D.
With their
decorated temples
and the images
from Hindu
mythology, bear a
unique testimony
to a civilization
that has disap-
peared. The main
cave is universal-
ly famous for its carvings to the glory of Shiva, who is exalted in
various forms and act ions. The cave consists of a square plan
mandapa whose sides measure about 27 m.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves
Locally known as ‘Verul Leni’these represent one of the largest
rock-hewn monastic-temple complexes in the entire world. Ellora
is also world famous for the largest single monolithic excavation
in the world, the
great Kailasa
(Cave 16). The
Ellora Caves not
only bear witness
to three great
r e l i g i o n s
(Buddhism, Brah-
minism and
Jainism) demon-
strating the
religious harmony
prevalent during
this period of Indian history. The 34 "caves" being Buddhist,
Hindu and Jain rock cut temples and monasteries, were built
between the 5th century and 10th century. The 12 Buddhist (caves
1–12), 17 Hindu (caves 13–29) and 5 Jain (caves 30–34) caves,
built in proximity.
Valley of Flowers National Park
Valley of Flowers National Park located in West Himalaya is
known for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers and the variety
of flora. This richly diverse area is also home to rare and endan-
gered animals and birds, including the Asiatic black bear, snow
leopard, musk deer, brown bear, red fox and blue sheep. At 3352
to 3658 meters above sea level, the gentle landscape of the Valley
of Flowers National Park complements the rugged mountain
wilderness of Nanda
Devi National Park to
the east. The park
stretches over an
expanse of 87.50 km2
and it is about 8 km
long and 2 km wide.
Both parks are encom-
passed in the Nanda
Devi Biosphere
Reserve. The best time
to visit Valley of
Flowers is July and August.
Khangchendzonga National Park
The Khangchendzonga (High Altitude) National Park extends
from the cold deserts of Lhonak Valley and the ridges of Lachen
in the North District to the historical place at Yuksom. The
Western boundary of the Park runs along the international
boundary with Nepal and China. The Park covers an area of 1784
sq.kms. and occupies as much as 25.14% of the total geographi-
cal area of Sikkim. The Park has spectacular wilderness with one
of the world’s highest peaks towering above virtually undisturbed
mountain range. The Park has about 18 glaciers-including Zemu
Glacier that is 300 mts. wide and 26 kms. long. Besides, there are
over 17 high altitude lakes and 19 mountains and peaks.
Khangchendzonga National Park contains floral and faunal
elements akin to Palaearctic and Oriental regions and in addition,
it has a good representation of species endemic to Himalaya.
Mountain Railways of India
Who had ever thought that railways would also be included as
WHS. But not one but three of Indian trains have been included
in this prestigious list namely The Darjeeling Himalayan
Railway, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and the Kalka Shimla
Railway. Jointly, these three sites have been designated as
"Mountain Railways of India".
Still operational today, these hill passenger railways crossing
regions of great beauty are outstanding examples of bold,
ingenious engineering solutions for the problem of establishing
an effective rail link through a rugged, mountainous terrain. The
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway opened in 1881, while the Nilgiri
Mountain Railway was completed in 1908 scaling an elevation of
326m to 2,203m. The Kalka Shimla Railway, a 96-km long,
single track working rail link built in the mid-19th century to
provide a service to the highland town of Shimla.

H e r i t a g e
H e r i t a g e
Cultural (28)
Sl. No. Name of Cultural World Heritage Site State Year
1 Agra Fort 1983
2 1983
3 1989
4 Gujarat 2004
5 2004
6 Goa 1986
7 1987
8 1983
9 1986
10 1987
11 1986
12 1984
13 1987
14 2013
15 1993
16 1986
17 2002
18 1999
19 1993
20
Gujarat
Gujarat 2014
21 2007
22 2003
23 1984
24 1983
25 2010
26 2016
27 2016
28 Gujarat 2017
Natural (7)
Sl. No. Name of Natural World Heritage Site State Year
1 1985
2 1985
3 1985
4 1982
2005
5 1984
6 2012
7 2014
Mixed (1)
Sl. No. Name of Natural World Heritage Site State Year
1 2016
Sources and Photos – UNESCO, Wikipedia and Ministry of tourism
C u r t a i n R a i s e r
A
fter a very successful ITB China last year this year’s ITB
China 2018 is expected to take off extremely well with a
reasonable growth. The organizers announced approxi-
mately 700 exhibitors are expected to showcase their wares to
15,000+ visitors and 800+ buyers. An exclusive ITB China Press
Event was organized in Shanghai with more than 120 attendees,
It was addresses by well known speakers from the industry and
stakeholders which included David Axiotis, General Manager of
ITB China; David Wu, Director of Visit Finland China; Ludivine
Destrée, Chair of ETC´s China Operations Group and Wallonie
Bruxelles Tourisme Beijing Representative; Kitty Huang, Vice
President Customer Loyalty & Revenue Generation, Greater
China of Wyndham Hotel Group; Roger Qiu, GM of Europe,
Middle East and Africa, Destination Marketing of Ctrip; Aaron
Zhi, General Manager of Meituan travel marketing center and
Peter L Herweck, President of Golden Tulip China.
Speaking at the event David Axiotis, GM, ITB China said, “I
am delighted to say that in its second year ITB China is again
making a strong step forward by even surpassing the success of
its premier in 2017. The overall scale of the show has significant-
ly increased, and the attendees can look forward to an even more
diversified content and networking programme.”
Around 700 companies, destinations, organisations and travel
service provider from some 70 countries and territories will be
represented in China’s B2B event for the travel industry. Over
one-third of the exhibitors are coming from Europe, and another
third from all over Asia and China. The Americas and the Middle
East are also strongly represented. More than 800 buyers will
attend the show this year. The diversity will again be very high as
the buyers will be coming from over 300 different companies and
from all over China, thereby representing the full range of
China’s largest industry players. ITB China 2018 counts the
biggest names of China’s travel industry on its buyers.
Strong partners at ITB China 2018
This year’s partner destination is Finland, who will be the co-
host of ITB China’s official opening dinner with some 600 guests
attending and will also have information on its wide range of
tourism products in the display hall. ITB China 2018 is an official
partner event of the EU China Tourism Year, an initiative that has
been jointly announced by the Chinese government and the EU
Commission promoting touristic and cultural exchanges between
China and Europe. Hotel
industry giant, Wyndham Hotel
Group has become the official
partner hotel of the second edition of ITB China. The group
operates more than 8.000 hotels worldwide, among which more
than 1.400 hotels in China alone. ITB China also brings up two
strategic partnerships in 2018 to mutually promote each other as
well as to enhance business opportunities and raise global
awareness for the Chinese tourism industry: The China Tourism
Academy, a research institution directly under the China National
Tourism Administration (CNTA) with a focus on studies in the
tourism industry, such as tourism research, data analysis and
tourism promotion.
Another strategic partner is the China Tourism Association
(CTA). The CTA, founded in 1986, is the largest industry associ-
ation for China’s travel and tourism industry with some 4,000
members covering all major travel verticals of the industry.
Experts to take the stage at the ITB China Conference
This year the ITB China Conference will provide up-to-date
key insights of these seven areas: ‘Destination’, ‘Travel Tech’,
‘Corporate Travel & MICE’, ‘Online Travel’, and - for the first
time - ‘Unique Travel’, ‘Business Travel’ and ‘Education & Job’.
A total of 2,700 attendees are expected to take part in the lectures,
discussions and keynotes, given by some 70 industry speakers.
The conference kicks off with the opening keynote speech by Mr.
James Liang, Chairman of Ctrip. In addition other top companies
such as CITS American Express Global Business Travel, Carlson
Wagonlit Travel and BCD Travel, Merlin Entertainments,
Mafengwo, Lushu, Abercombie & Kent will be sending speakers
to the ITB China Conference.
ITB China will also be hosting a multitude of award cere-
monies: For the second time the ITB China Start-up Award will
be launched. Qyer and ITB China will, for the first time, co-
organize the IT'S MY WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2018
honoring Chinese key opinion leaders as well as global destina-
tions at this year’s ITB China. The Chinese Tourist Welcome
Award, which is being organized by the China Outbound Tourism
Research Institute (COTRI), also makes its debut at the travel
show.
ITB China 2018 will take place from 16 to 18 May, at the
Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre.
ITB China to provide key insights

H
aving visited this show for several years the show always
has something new and exceeds our expectations every
year. This year will be no different as Ray Bloom,
chairman and founder of the IMEX Group and Carina Bauer,
CEO, IMEX Group are planning some exciting experiences.
The most remarkable sensation will be in the Dark Room
where participants will taste the extra sensory experience of an
educational session in pitch black total darkness. This ‘Learning
Lab’ will feature at IMEX as a result of the new IMEX Group
partnership with C2 International, the ground-breaking leader in
innovative business conferences. The partnership represents a
joint effort to drive innovation and creativity throughout the
meetings and events sector.
In Hall 9 will be the G-Tainer, a multimedia encased two-storey
stack of meeting rooms which will feature a new ground floor
‘Chat Bar’. This casual space has been designed for people to
meet and make new contacts by holding ‘curiosity conversations’
with each other.
In the new IMEX Live Zone there will be Mr Piano – a giant,
walking piano ideal for team building events and the funky
Fotobus to a puppeteer, a caricaturist, musicians and improvisa-
tional street theatre. The new ZEUS Coworking Campus will not
only provide opportunities to check emails and to network but
also to try out gadgets and games and to take part
in pop-up events including Speed Networking.
A full programme of professional education and
insights runs throughout the three days of the show
as well as during EduMonday, taking place the day
before IMEX in Frankfurt, on Monday 14 May.
Also don’t miss out the IMEX Opening
Ceremony on 15th May at 10.30 am as the Keynote
Speaker is Gloria Guevara Manzo, President &
CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
If you’re a meeting and event professional then
this is the right place to be as you can interact with
3,500-plus destinations, venues and suppliers from
150-plus countries in one place – from major hotel
groups and venues to the latest event tech
providers.
IMEX in Frankfurt starts with EduMonday, 14
May, at Kap Europa Congress Centre. IMEX
Expo runs 15 – 17 May in Messe Frankfurt –
Halls 8 and 9.
C o v e r S t o r y
IMEX: The right place for a MICE professional
As IMEX the worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meetings and events gears up to open this month
Chandragupta Amritkar previews this all important show
Partial List of Indian Exhibitors at IMEX 2018, Frankfurt
Participant Stand Contact
Accor Hotels India F620 Rohit Chopra
Alpcord Networks B300 Chander Mansharamani
Andaz Delhi G600 Madhav Sehgal
Creative Travel A300 Rajeev Kohli
Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty G600 Ronnie Noble
Hyatt Regency Gurgaon G600 Ryan Gracias
HCVB (Hyderabad) A280 Gary Khan
ICPB B300 Madhu Dubey
India Tourism B300 Ajit Pal Singh
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar C600 Dietmar Kielnhofer
JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity C600 Karthik Ramdas
KW Conferences Pvt Ltd A460 Monimita Sarkar
NOVOTEL HCC & HICC F620 Varun Mehrotra
Pullman New Delhi Aerocity F620 Abhay Kanwar
Radisson Hotel Group - India F600 Rakesh Sawant
Renaissance Mumbai CC Hotel C600 Nicholas Dumbell
Sheraton Grand Bengaluru C600 Faiz Alam Ansari
The Leela Palace Hotels & Resorts G560 Rajat Bhatia
Ray Bloom Carina Bauer
Chander Mansharamani, MD,
Alpcord Network Travel & Con-
ferences Management Company
is a travel industry veteran for the
last 35 years. He has won the Best
MICE Tour Operator award twice
in 2009 -2010 & in 2013-2014
from Ministry of Tourism, Govt of
India along with the award for Star
Conference Organiser by Exhibi-
tion Excellence Awards 2015 and
the Best Professional Conference
Organizer Award in 2016 by Hos-
pitality India Awards. He is also currently the Vice Chairman for
ICPB (India Convention Promotion Bureau).
The entire world has witnessed the immense potential of MICE
Tourism and the indelible impact it delivers on the Economy.
Now the question arises why India should be on top of the mind
location for MICE? The major reason is the rising economic
importance of the region. India’s sterling performance in areas of
ICT, Biotechnology, and Medicine have made it an economic
hotspot. Also most academic interactions and business meets also
happen under MICE – making India a top of the mind location for
MICE.
We in Alpcord strongly believe apart from the advantage of
India being the soft power, incentivizing International Confer-
ences and making attractive proposition for them to visit India is
the key factor. Incentive may be in the nature of a Welcome offer,
either in monetary terms like an amount that commensurate with
the estimated value of business or add on that has respectable
monetary value to the Conference planner.
We take great pride in having organized three major world con-
ferences in the last six months including ‘The World Military
Medicine’ where most of the Countries were represented by high
ranking Military Officials and was inaugurated by The President
of India.
Our beautiful Heritage properties are quite suitable for
weddings but still one segment of people prefer International des-
tinations. The only way to reduce this trend is to open up old
palaces and Heritage properties and also wedding venues need to
become more competitive.
Another question doing rounds for several years is that of of
digital taking priority but I feel the concept of having face to face
meeting and interaction during the event is still a preference for.
The Digital technology is being used as an Organizational tool to
bring in more efficiency in handling of the Conference.
A. T. Seasons & Vacations
Travel Pvt.Ltd. has already created
a niche for themselves in the hos-
pitality industry providing a wide
range of MICE and holiday
options. Leading the team is the
dynamic Amaresh Tiwari, MD, A
T & Seasons Vacations Travel
Pvt. Ltd. who is also the Hon.
Secretary of ICPB. In an Interview
with Global Destinations he elab-
orates on the MICE potential in
India. Excerpts
What new avenues does India present for MICE?
MICE in India is growing very fast and future of tourism in
India depends on this sector for growth. India currently is the
fastest growing economy in the world and that forces all the
major decision makers to think about India and to have their
presence. Also remember we have largest consumer base after
china.
With India having 36 UNESCO sites, why are our MICE
operators not able to take advantage of this?
Most of the UNESCO sites in India are either in remote area
are in smaller towns other than few which are located in major
cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Agra. Being in remote zones the con-
vention infrastructure is not upto the mark. But all that is slowly
changing - Varanasi (Sarnath), Khajuraho, Bhopal (Sanchi,
Bhimbetka) are developing better supply chain for MICE
industry and I am sure this will increase in MICE inflow.
What role is your company playing in attracting MICE to
India?
Apart from A.T.Seasons & Vacations Travel Pvt. Ltd., we have
opened a dedicated MICE division ‘Meetings & Incentives
World’ and also launched a new website : www.miw.travel for
promoting MICE. We are focusing on Incentive Travel and this
year we have won two International conferences for India. Our
current focus is on Automobile, Energy, Oil and Gas, Banking,
Finance, Leadership and HR area.
How effective are events like IMEX, EIBTM for Indian
MICE growth?
IMEX and EIBTM are leading shows in terms of MICE and
yielding very good results. IMEX gives one the opportunities to
show case their products, understand the market trends, great net-
working and above all very useful knowledge sessions.
C o v e r S t o r y
Two Stalwarts open up on MICE Industry

C
ertainly one of the best place to stay in Nashik - whether
on business or on vacation, Express Inn is fast becoming
a most sought out place for events, conferences, expos
and weddings.
“It’s largely due to our patrons and support from the media
especially Global Destinations which has helped Express Inn
Nashik getting an excellent rating. With Nashik on an expansion
spree we expect to see a good increase in International travellers
including medical tourism and corporate travel. Our tie- up with
Preferred Hotels & Resorts has been a big support to attract Inter-
national travellers for us,” said Vikas Shelar, Director Express Inn
who started working with the hotel 5 years back when it was
doing 45-50% occupancy, with limited MICE and no Internation-
al presence. In a span of 5 years he has brought occupancy levels
to 75-80%, banqueting is 85%, corporate tie-ups spread across
India, global tie-ups with Preffered Hotels, PATA, ICPB.
On the MICE front the hotel boasts of several venues. The
Express Royale – The Convention Center can accommodate more
than 800 guests at a time making it the best venue for large con-
ferences and as well as weddings. Grandeur – The Banquet Hall
is ideal for a corporate conference or high-end social get-
togethers where there are around 300 guests. On the other hand
Harmony – Banquet Lounge, Symphony and Board Room cater
to less number of guests make it a good option for short business
meetings or seminar, an intimate engagement or birthday celebra-
tion. All venues are well equipped with latest technologies and
gadgets.
“Today I can proudly say our banqueting facilities are world
class. But it’s not just having best banqueting facilities in Nashik
we have an excellent F&B to back it. our Chef and F&B Team
who work in tandem to cater to our guest’s taste-buds making us
get repeat MICE business either
directly from corporate or from
travel agents,” said Vikas Shelar.
Connecting with leading online
portals, wedding planners, event
management companies and PCO's
is a regular process for Express Inn
team. Banner promotion between
Nashik - Mumbai – Pune is a reglar
feature as well as advertising in
leading publications. Active partic-
ipation in trade shows like ITB,
WTM, FITUR, IITT, OTM,
SATTE, ITM, TTF, International
Travel Roadshow (India) has helped them showcase the property.
Express Inn Nashik is a member of Preferred Hotels and resorts -
marketing our property for MICE in 60 countries through their
Network.
Add to this they have an excellent fitness center, a spa, salon,
Club X which has billiards, table tennis, play station, nutrition
parlour and the one and only squash court in Nashik.
This luxury hotel is fast becoming a wedding destination. In
addition to stylish wedding accommodations Express Inn
provides free assistance from certified wedding planners who
help the clients with everything from invitations to wedding
cakes to decorations to memorable farewells. The hotels biggest
wedding had 4,000 guests.
Nashik being a pilgrimage center and the wine capital of India,
there are lot of activates and options that MICE organisers can
give their clients. We look forward to attracting more Interna-
tional clientele from IMEX,” said Vikas Shelar.
C o v e r S t o r y
Express Inn: One of the best venues to hold an event
Great ambiance, grand
rooms, par excellence
food, good Spa,
excellent sports facilities
- gym, squash, billiards
room, swimming pool,
even a kids games room
equally efficient and
friendly staff but it’s the
banqueting facilities that
make Express Inn the
most sought out hotel in
Western India.
Vikas Shelar

I
t was when my good old friend Monica Edara, marketing
communications manager, Renaissance Mumbai Convention
Centre Hotel & Lakeside Chalet – Mumbai, mentioned that
the GM of her hotel is going to IMEX, Frankfurt that got me
interested. She and the GM of the hotel, Nicholas Dumbell were
kind enough to invite me with my family to the hotel.
Having been to Renaissance several times to cover events (and
also recommended it to my corporate friends who have success-
fully held select global events), I knew that this was one of the
best hotel based venues in Mumbai and ideal for my IMEX issue.
Situated on the banks of Powai lake and amidst 15 acres of lush
greenery and with 600 rooms it is a luxurious oasis ideal for
global events. “Location – close proximity to the airports, large
open spaces, gardens, terraces, huge room inventory, extensive
restaurant offerings spread across seven F&B outlets and one of
India’s largest convention spaces - 1,30,000 Sq ft including
indoor and outdoor spaces with some giving you the with best
view of the Powai lake make us the best option in Mumbai,” said
a smiling Nicholas Dumbell.
With 18 years in Marriott, I found Nicholas a truly multi-
cultural global citizen who was born in Brunei to Mauritian and
British parents grew up as an expat in five different Asian
countries of which four years in India. “I have truly fallen in love
with this country. Hospitality is in the heart of you people which
makes it a dual pleasure working in India,” said a smiling
Nicholas.
While the hotel is already considered a lifestyle destination, its
events and banqueting that has turned out to be the lifeline of the
hotel. “45% of revenue comes from MICE and another 15% from
group check-ins. I have noticed F&B is the top priority for
Indians and the guests expect Indian food to be spot on. So we
have invested a lot on hiring the right staff. Our chefs not only
meet the clients before the event, but also half an hour before the
event our chefs invite the organisers to taste the food and spices.
They also feel involved in the process,” said Nicholas.
The hotel being in partial process of renovation Vinay Singh,
DoSM of the hotel said, “I have to appreciate the vision of the
owners that way back in 2001 decided to have a lakefront view
hotel. It was a destination for the rich and affluent. But with more
International brands coming in Mumbai this hotel lost its ‘top of
mind recall’. Now we are renovating the hotel – both rooms and
restaurants – to make them trendy.”
C o v e r S t o r y
Two Mumbai Marriott group properties gear up for IMEX
Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel & Lakeside Chalet
Nicholas Dumbell Vinay Singh

Vinay has over 15 years of experience in the hospitality sector
including the prestigious St. Regis where he worked under the
guidance of Anurag Bhatnagar, Marriott International's multi-
property VP, Luxury, India. “I have learned a lot from him and
this is helping me a lot in my role as a DoSM here. This is my
first MICE hotel and the uniqueness that I found here is that it
gives guests an opportunity to breathe fresh air,” said Vinay.
Since Vinays arrival he has been able to attract quite a few top
end events to the property including lifestyle and fashion events.
This year they are the partners for Miss India events. The hotel is
also planning to start a discovery tour which will be a nice cruise
for guests. “Our first cruise will take stars, socialites and guests
on a luxurious yacht across Mumbai. Later on we plan to offer
this as an add-on service to our MICE guests,” said Vinay.
Apart from expansive convention facilities the hotel has an
excellent pool, gym and Quan spa with 6 treatment rooms. I was
pretty impressed by the executive lounge located on the top floor
- probably the largest in the country. Spread over a total area of
12,500 sq ft it’s meant for the exclusive few including Marriott
reward Gold and Platinum members. “We do give out this lounge
along with the Renaissance terrace and the garden for events as
they offer an excellent view of the Powai Lake,” said Nicholas.
C o v e r S t o r y
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar
W
hen Monica invited me to experience Renaissance
Mumbai she talked highly of Dietmar Kielnhofer with
whom she had interacted a lot during her Hyderabad
days - when he was Complex GM at Starwood Hyderabad. He
had recently moved to JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as the GM of
the 580 room property and would
also be at IMEX, Frankfurt.
Co-ordinating with Sanhita
Ghoshal, senior marketing & com-
munications manager, JW Marriott
Mumbai Sahar who arranged a
meeting with Dietmar Kielnhofer
at such a short notice, I visited this
huge property located just adjacent
to the airport – literally walking
distance.
“There is huge potential for
MICE in India. At IMEX we expect to showcase what India has
got and how we can attract International MICE. There’s huge
MICE potential across India that can be tapped by International
tour and MICE operators. I and Nicholas plan to work in tandem
to promote India, and not just only our properties, as an alterna-
tive option to the oversold Bangkok, Hong Kong and Singapore.
I believe India will be the hottest destination for tourism and
MICE in next 5 years,” said Dietmar, who has had over 30 years
of industry exposure across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and
Asia.
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is a recent luxury addition to the
existing Mumbai airport hotels. The hotel offers over 95,000
sq.ft. of indoor and outdoor convention spaces and has 11
meeting rooms. “It’s our unique 50,000 sq.ft. of outdoor land-
scaped garden space that can accommodate 2000 pax at any given
time that has made us a favourite for large events and weddings.
Add to this being an International brand, Marriott stands for
quality and our loyalty program is considered the best in the
world,” said Dietmar.
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar in a short time since its opening
has attracted a lot of events in various fields – Pharma, Medical,
Diamond merchants, IT etc. They have successfully held expos
catering to 60-70 exhibitors along with their conferences in their
grand ballroom spread over 10,000 sq.ft and a Junior Ballroom of
almost 4,000 sq.ft. On the F&B side the hotel is quite strong with
several renowned chefs and award winning restaurants. The
group also rates their spa as the best in Asia.
Talking on his plans at IMEX, Dietmar said “I have a threefold
agenda which I feel hoteliers world over can adopt. You have to
first promote the destination ie, India, followed by the city ie,
Mumbai and finally your own property ie, JW Marriott Mumbai.”
Dietmar Kielnhofer

How strong is Fern Hotels in the MICE segment?
We have grown to 53 hotels in 36 locations and will be opening
another 15-plus hotels in 2018-19. Our goal is to have 100 hotels
by 2020 and we are on track so far to reach that.
Our reach now extends across India, in the metros, in state
capitals, in smaller tier II cities and in key resort locations. With
this sort of spread, we are increasingly focusing on the MICE
segment as we now have properties with the inventory size to
accommodate large and small MICE movements. The MICE
segment, at most of our key locations is growing stronger year-
on-year.
Which are the best performing MICE hotels in your group?
Our hotels in Kolkata (Ibiza The Fern Resort), Hyderabad
(Manasarovar The Fern), Agra (Howard Plaza The Fern),
Ahmedabad (The Fern) and Jaipur (The Fern) all offer 80-100
rooms each and are very popular with MICE events. We also get
strong MICE movements at our hotels in Mumbai, Kadmamba-
Goa, Mount Abu, Jodhpur, etc.
What are you doing to increase MICE opportunities?
Our portfolio now offers a range of locations that have MICE-
potential. We have pan-India sales teams in the metros and
Gujarat, and each hotel also has its own unit sales team - all these
sales associates are out meeting corporate clients and event
planners for their MICE movements to our hotels. And with
hotels in locations all over India, corporate clients prefer to work
with the same group of hotels across locations. We also offer
standard and tailor-made conference packages to suit all confer-
ence types and price-point levels.
How tech savvy are your hotels?
Our hotels offer hi-speed WiFi and all the latest audio-visual
and teleconferencing aids that MICE organizers are looking for
these days.
Go Green has been your mantra for long and you have suc-
cessfully adopted it. Has it helped you get more business espe-
cially MICE?
The customer is becoming increasingly more aware on the
environment and ecology and would like to do their bit to
conserve the environment and the planet. And as we are the
leading environmentally friendly hotel brand, naturally we
become the first-choice for such companies and clients for their
hotel stays and MICE movements. So yes, our practices do help
in getting in business.
How suitable are your hotels for weddings and which are
most ideal?
Our hotels are not in the 150-200+ rooms space so we cannot
do large destination weddings. But many of our hotels are
becoming increasingly popular for smaller size wedding groups
at great-value pricing. The most ideal wedding locations for us
are our hotels in Kolkata (Ibiza The Fern Resort), Hyderabad,
Jaipur, Agra, Ahmedabad, Bhavnagar (where we have a beautiful
sprawling hotel), Pune (Amanora The Fern), Sasan Gir, Udaipur,
etc.
An offbeat question - your opinion of the GST that has been
implemented in India?
GST, if clearly defined and correctly implemented, is a definite
positive step in India’s tax regime. The problem here is that for
the hotel industry, there are 4 different GST slabs and still no
clarity on what is the correct GST tax amount payable across all
hotels. Some hotels are charging a flat 18% or 28% GST while
others vary their GST slabs from room to room and day to day.
Once these lacunae are sorted out, I think the GST regime will
simplify tax collections across industries.
C o v e r S t o r y
“The MICE segment, at most of our key
locations is growing stronger year-on-year”
An inspiration to many in the hospitality industry, Param Kannampilly the soft-spoken
chairman and managing director of Concept Hospitality rose to heights when a couple
of decades back he had the foresight that sustainability and environment-friendly hotels will
be critical for his industry. Tasting success and worldwide appreciation for his love for envi-
ronment a decade back he went on to launch his Fern brand of hotels or ecotels. The name
Fern was selected as it was the first plant that existed on earth and made his staff feel envi-
ronment consciousness while working with the group. With the hotel concentrating on MICE
and weddings we though it ideal to Interview Param Kannampilly for our IMEX issue. Excerpts
C o v e r S t o r y
You are probably the only 5-star
resort located adjacent to a theme
park in India. How do you take
benefit of this uniqueness?
Being India’s first theme park hotel we get an opportunity to
cater to a very broad and versatile segment of clients ranging
from families, corporates, FITs, leisure and business travelers. In
many ways, we are unique, from our aesthetic appeal to guest
experience, since we are always trying to incorporate an element
of fun into every experience we create. At Novotel Imagica the
fun never ends and this brand attribute demands that we create
many touchpoints of excitement & fun for our guests; often even
after their day at the theme park. One of the popular features of
the Novotel Imagica experience is the Irolic parade, where our
guests get a chance to dance with their favorite mascots while
having breakfast. Needless to say the children love this morning
ritual.
How is Novotel Imagica Khopoli suitable for MICE?
We are the largest inventoried hotel with 287 keys within the
getaway region of Mumbai-Pune, providing an array of indoor &
outdoor venues. Our location is our
strength being close to a major metro,
but still far enough to be nestled in
nature and a natural setting. From top
management strategy meets to large
exhibitions we do have the facilities &
expertise to accommodate varied client
needs. We expect this segment to
continue contributing to our revenue
stream.
What percentage is your focus on the meeting segment?
MICE contributed 64% to our occupancy in 2017 & 2018 and
we are expecting the MICE share to be at 57%. Our strategy this
year would be to displace the variance by increasing our share
from the non-qualified mix.
What authentic local experiences will guests have access to?
Any particular experiences that you want to highlight?
At Novotel Imagica our guests get a chance to be one with
nature away from the hustled city life. We organize treks & nature
trails & for Novotel guests who just want to stay at the hotel, we
have access to activities like water zorbing, archery & cool indoor
& outdoor games. We also add our imagical touch to wake our
guests up with our “Character Wake Up Calls” – a delight to
every child and family. Of course our audience pleaser “The
Irolic Parade” is definitely a uniquely engaging way to bring
everyone under one roof as they unanimously dance in sync with
the mascots over breakfast.
What does it take for a hotel to become a meetings star
winner?
A motivated & dedicated team, uncompromised service & the
desire to understand client requirements & cater to those create a
winning combination with makes our customers keep coming
back to us. Of course, well-maintained infrastructure is also a big
contributor.
MICE and weddings take a toll on the staff. How do you
best motivate your staff?
We take our theme of fun, into our human resources practices
as well. Apart from professional & personal development
workshops, we provide a fun environment to work in. We also
conduct regular recognition & leisure platforms for our team. In
any hospitality setup, our human resources are the most important
element and we constantly seek to serve from the heart.
“At Novotel Imagica our guests get a chance to be one
with nature away from the hustled city life”
Under the dynamic leadership of Srinivas Srirangam, GM, Novotel Imagica Khopoli
has already created a niche for itself as an excellent MICE destination for Indian corporate.
Located in-between Mumbai and Pune Novotel Imagica has a pillar less ballroom of 5000
sq.ft. that can accommodate upto 500 people. The hotel has exquisitely designed lawns
spread over 17,000 sq.ft. ideal for weddings. Add to this a theme park within walking
distance. In an e-interview Srinivas Srirangam highlights the potential of MICE at the hotel.
Excerpts

As you complete 15 years, how has the journey been and
how has HITEX made its name in this industry?
It is an overwhelmed feeling when we realize that our journey
strived successfully while completing the 15-year milestone.
HITEX has grown from being just a venue provider to a one-stop
facility supplier, with extremely competitive rates. Within a short
span of time, HITEX carved a niche for itself as a premier desti-
nation for national and international events, exhibitions, confer-
ences and live shows.
However, we think beyond scoring figures to stay ahead of the
curve. In our journey of over 15 years, we have catalyzed some
of the best practices that have led to HITEX's emergence as the
premier destination for exhibitions, trade fairs and various events.
It’s a proud feeling when industry giants call us ‘THE VENUE
FOR SUCCESS.’
How do you compete with your competitors within India?
The beauty of the Indian Exhibition Industry is that we never
really compete with each other as the scope for competition is
very less. Every venue has different strengths and attracts
different events across sectors. For example, based on its region
and location Venue A may be preferred over Venue B for events
of a specific sector while Venue B may be preferred over Venue
A for events of a different sector. We compete with ourselves and
make sure we retain our clientele and the sectors we are serving
by excellent customer service.
How do you promote HITEX globally and attract global
events?
HITEX is an active member of all major global Associations
and represents Indian MICE Industry on the global stage.
Hyderabad is among the most happening MICE destinations in
Asia with HITEX as the preferred venue for top events across
sectors. HITEX’s state-of-the-art facilities, location, connectivity
to the airport and abundance of hotels in the close vicinity made
it the most preferred venue in India. All these facts make our job
to promote HITEX globally easier. In addition, Hyderabad’s
unique position on the global MICE destinations map comple-
ments HITEX’s position as the premier venue for global events in
India.
Do traditional fairs still have the same significance with
growth in digital and virtual platforms?
Yes. Traditional fairs are still relevant in the current day of
digital and virtual platforms. The blending of traditional fairs and
digital & virtual platform holds the key to the future of events and
their success.
Where do you see HITEX growth coming from and which
will be your major focus sectors?
When we talk about the maximum number of recurring events
happening in HITEX, Construction and Engineering, Pharmaceu-
ticals and Medical Technology events are among the top. Other
sectors include Renewable Energy, Chemical Technology and
Furniture & Lifestyle. Thanks to the awareness about the benefits
of Trade Fairs, every sector is making Trade Fairs and Exhibitions
their key marketing avenues. We are witnessing significant
demand from various sectors and are not limited to focusing on
few specific sectors.
How do you ensure international standards and seal of
quality at HITEX?
At HITEX, our primary focus is on achieving highest standards
through adherence to best practices. HITEX has the maximum
number of CEM certified staff in India and delivers excellence
through their professionalism, expertise and dedication. Our
teams in different departments ensure the delivery of highest
quality services to our clients with predetermined audits and
checks in place throughout different modules of the events.
M I C E
“It’s a proud feeling when industry giants call us -
THE VENUE FOR SUCCES”
HITEX has played host to some of the major events that have happened in India. While Delhi
and Mumbai have always been popular thanks to one being the capital of the country and the
other the financial hub, 15 years back with the arrival of HITEX Hyderabad started becoming
a popular MICE destination. Conceptualized by German architects it is considered to be India's
most modern exhibition centre and is spread across 53 acres with close proximity to the
several hotels as well as the airport. The venue is now gearing up to host its own IEIA event
– an Annual Conclave of the Indian Exhibition Industry where the Indian Exhibition Industry
comes together along with international delegates just a week before IMEX, Frankfurt.
Under the able guidance of KV Nagendra Prasad, COO – HITEX, who is also currently the
President of Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA) and active in many national and
international industry forums HITEX has not just grown in stature but is already has setting
quite a few benchmarks in the Indian exhibition industry. We thought it focus on HITEX in our
IMEX issue. Excerpts

You recently announced a Telangana Touirsm Conclave.
What is it all about?
It is proud moment for us that the first Telangana Touirsm
Conclave will be held from June 28-30 in Hyderabad, India at
Marriott Hotel and Convention Centre. This we are organising in
association with the Global Panorama Showcase Ltd, Nagpur.
After the state bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh this is the first
Travel and Tourism event taking place with the full support of
Department of Tourism, Government of Telangana and supported
by Ministry of Tourism Government of India initiated by Federa-
tion of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh Chamber of Commerce
and Industries.
Though the youngest state of India, Telangana, has got a very
important role to play in both tourism sector as well as MICE
Sector but what we need is to increase the number of arrivals for
other reasons like medical tourism.
So you are only concentrating on Telangana and not
Andhra Pradesh?
Andhra Pradesh is also on the top of my mind. Infact the idea
of conducting the Tourism Conclave is to make it a bi-annual
event so that we can repeat the similar event in Andhra Pradesh.
We have already narrowed down on Vishakapatnam to promote
AP Tourism Conclave. With this efforts both states will get an
advantage of having their own conclave and by way of offering
familiarization tours
to each other states
delegates.
Who will benefit
from the conclave?
It is a platform for
all the stake holders of
Travel and Tourism
Industry to take part
as its not restricted to
regional level and we
are getting buyers and
sellers from India and
overseas. The aim is
to focus on all
verticals including
Medical Tourism. We
will have eminent
speakers from the
travel trade
who will
empower and
educate the
stake holders on the first day and rest two days will completely
be dedicated to B2B. We are also initiating certain new proposals
by giving white paper draft for effective policy making. We have
also identified gaps to be filled to increase potential in Tourism
Trade.
We also plan to have post tours for our guests. Telangana
Tourism offers a splendid experience of various theme tours and
one can cherish the 'experience' of visiting places of interest
appealing to individuals of different ages and walks of life. Right
from pilgrimage towns, wild life sanctuaries to modern conven-
tion centres and dams.
Hyderabad is known for its unique cuisines and represents a
distinctive blend of cuisines, beverages and eating habits. Dum
Ka Biryani, Qubani Ka Meetha, Hyderabadi special biryani, Irani
Chai, Sakinaalu, Sarva Pindi are among those specialities that
others savor in Hyderabad
What are your plans for Andhra Pradesh event?
As I mentioned we are going to repeat the event in a similar
manner in Andhra Pradesh (AP) at Vishakapatnam. It will be
called Andhra Pradesh Tourism Conclave. We have already got a
positive response
from the Minister and
Secretary of A P
Tourism. This
conclave when it
happens in Hyderabad
AP Tourism will come
forward to offer FAM
Tours to these hosted
buyers to visit few
important Tourism
sites in Andhra
Pradesh. Similarly
when the event takes
place in Vishakapat-
nam the Telangana
Tourism will come
forward to host FAM
Tours with in
Telangana.
I n t e r v i e w
“It is a platform for all the stake holders of
Travel and Tourism Industry”
Valmiki Hari Kishan, Founder and Managing Partner of Valmiki
Travel and Tourism Solutions brings with him a wealth of
knowledge and 18 years’ experience. He is also involved in a lot of CSR
wing of the Valmiki Group – Valmiki Foundation. With a view to promote
his region Telangana Touirsm Conclave has been announced. Now
Chairman for the Conclave Valmiki Hari Kishan is all set to make the
conclave a success and will use his experience of delivering a success-
ful SKAL International World Congress in Hyderabad in October 2017.
T e c h n o l o g y
T
here can be no two doubts that it’s the world’s largest tech
show with almost all the brands (except Apple) vying for
space to attract the audience and media. For us journalists
it leaves us physically and mentally exhausted as we try to visit
as many press conferences, keynotes, exhibitors spread across
five venues. But its 100% that we in media cannot miss as it gives
us an insight into the next 12 months.
This year was no different as more than 3,900 exhibitors
showcased world-changing technologies that spanned more than
2.75 million net square feet of exhibit space across Las Vegas –
the largest show floor in CES’ 51 year history. There were
860,732 tweets about CES 2018 and 450,554 uses of the
#CES2018 hashtag. From major international brands to the more
than 900 startups (the startup section witnessed a substantial
jump) participating in Eureka Park (home for CES startups) CES
2018.
“Large and small companies from around the globe came to
Las Vegas this week to use CES 2018 to launch technologies that
will change our world,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO,
Consumer Technology Association (CTA). “From 5G to smart
cities, digital health, AI, VR/AR and more, the technologies that
will shape the future of our planet and lives for the better were on
display across the show floor. CES is the global platform where
you can see the critical ingredient technologies and understand
better how they interconnect, providing both a clear snapshot of
today’s breakthrough innovations and a vision of the road ahead.”
Voice, VR and automobiles
CES to a large scale demonstrated how voice-enabled devices
and virtual assistants based on artificial intelligence (AI) will be
the future. Amazon announced a partnership with Toyota to
include its Alexa technology into their 2018 model dashboards.
While virtual reality (VR) has been the talk at CES since last 3
years and this year though HTC's Vive Pro, Samsungs Gear VR,
Lenovo Mirage Solo did attract a lot of attention most consumers
are still not very comfortable looking through VR headsets.
CES over the years has become one of the most important auto
shows in the world - primarily it's not an auto show. This year
CES witnessed new cars, autonomous cars, shuttle vans,
augmented reality dashboards powered by AI etc. Mercedes
launched its smart cockpit the MBUX, which stands for
Mercedes-Benz User Experience – basically a dashboard of the
future with two 12-inch LCDs. While BMW, Ford, and Hyundai
previously announced Alexa support, Toyota will start offering
the voice-powered assistant in its Entune 3.0 App Suite and Lexus
Enform App Suite 2.0 later this year. Nissan's B2V -- that's "brain
to vehicle" -- technology reads brain waves, which telegraph
what the driver wants to do 0.5 to 1.0 seconds before the driver's
hands or feet undertake the action. Byton and The Kia Niro
showcased their EV version.
Driverless cars have been a hot topic at CES for several years
and this year was no exception. Toyota unveiled the e-Palette, a
glassed-in autonomous vehicle that could be used by companies
to showcase a mobile retail store, deliver food or even increase
the ability for companies to get more done. Several makers had
prototype versions of driverless cars on display with some
available for demo rides.
An array of groundbreaking technologies were introduced,
explored and analyzed over the past days, showing that our world
is heading towards a more connected future. Smart Cities at CES
spotlighted many of these innovative technologies, including 5G,
AI and IoT.
The CES conference program covered the entire tech industry
through more than 900 speakers, including 240 women, across
some 200 conference sessions.
CES 2019 is scheduled in Las Vegas from January 8-11.
CES: Epitomizes the spirit of innovation
What a show. It’s growing and growing. It’s flourishing, expanding, thriving and the tech fever is seeing no end.
Chandragupta Amritkar reports from Las Vegas after again experiencing a high at CES on his
13th consecutive visit to the show

For Your Information
May 8-11 ILTM Latin America, Sao Paulo - Brazil
May 09-11 IEIA Open Seminar, HITEX, Hyderabad, India
May 10-11 International Travel Roadshow, Sydney - Australia
May 15-17 IMEX, Incentive Travel, Meetings and Events, Frankfurt, Germany
May 15-17 Global Travel Marketplace West, Las Vegas - USA
May 15-17 Airport Show, Dubai - UAE
May 16-18 ITB China, Shanghai - China
May 17-20 PATA Annual Summit, Gangneung - South Korea
May 19-23 International POW WOW, Denver - Colorado - USA
May 21-24 ILTM Asia, Singapore
May 21-22 Boutique & Lifestyle Hotel Summit, London - UK
May 29-31 European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition, Geneva - Switzerland
June 01 – 03 Karibu Travel Market Tanzania, Arusha, Tanzania
June 04 - 08 Posidonia (shipping), Athens - Greece
June 07 - 08 Future Travel Experience Europe, Dublin - Ireland
June 12-12 International Travel Roadshow, Delhi - India
June 14-17 KOFTA (Korea World Travel Fair), Seoul - Korea
June 14-17 ITE Hong Kong, Hong Kong - China
June 15-17 BITE (Beijing International Tourism Expo), Beijing - China
June 15-15 International Travel Roadshow, Pune - India
June 25-28 Private Luxury Forum Europe, St. Moritz - Switzerland
June 24 – July 04 World Heritage Committee’s 42nd session, Manama, Bahrain
July 12-14 Global Travel Marketplace (GTM), Hollywood, Florida, USA
July 25-26 MICE INDIA and Luxury Travel congress, Hyatt Regency Mumbai, Mumbai, India
July 31 – Aug 01 MICE INDIA and Luxury Travel congress, New Delhi, India
September 5-7 IBTM Americas, Mexico City – Mexico
September 7-10 21st Busan International Travel Fair, Busan, Korea
September 11-13 OTDYKH - MICE, Luxury, Leisure, Medical, Moscow, Russia
September 12-14 PATA Travel Mart, Langkawi – Malaysia
September 16-18 Luxperience, Sydney, Australia
September 18-20 IT&CM Asia and CTW, Bangkok – Thailand
September 18-21 WYSTC (World Youth & Student Travel Conference), Edinburgh, Scotland
September 19-20 Seatrade Cruise MED, Lisbon, Portugal
September 26-29 IFTM (Top Resa), Paris, France
September 26-27 Hotel Investment Conference Europe, London, UK
September 27-30 Kerala Travel Mart, Kerala, India
October 2-4 Africa Hotel Investment Forum, Nairobi, Kenya
October 4-7 International Fair of Tourism Sport Expo, Novi Sad, Serbia
October 5-7 TTF Mumbai, Mumbai – India
October 11-13 Cambodia Travel Mart, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
October 16 – 18 IMEX America, Sands Expo & Convention Center, Las Vegas, USA
October 23 – 26 INTERBAD (Swimming Pools, Saunas & Spas), STUTTGART, Germany
November 05-07 World Travel Market (WTM) London, ExCeL, London, United Kingdom
Exhibitions and conferences not only give you an opportunity to see and hear about the latest destinations, services
and products but also becomes a venue to meet and interact with International partners. One should plan much in
advance to participate in an expo so that he can get in touch with existing and prospective customers. We have
compiled a list of travel related Exhibitions for 2018
If your event is not listed, please e-mail us at editor@globalfeatures.info. It's free!
Your Dateline
If you are organizing an exhibition/Conference not listed above please get in touch with us at-
Global Technologies, B-701, Customs Colony, Military Rd, Marol, Andheri(E), Mumbai-400 059, India.
Phone - 91-22-29252569, Mobile - 9224339001 / 9223419060 e-mail: chandraguptaa@hotmail.com

Gd may june issue 2018 double spread

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