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Volume V Issue 11 November 2014 64 pages

A DDP Publication
Dubai Calling
World Expo 2020
All eyes
on India
Leaders
Ahoy!
Publisher & Editor

SanJeet
Editor-in-Chief
Deepa Sethi
Assistant Editor
Ekta Marwaha
Sub-Editor
Shubhi Tandon
Photographer
Simran Kaur
Design
Ruchi Sinha
Advertising
Gunjan Sabikhi
Karishma Khanna
Shovan Kanungo
Udit Pandey
2014 continues to look bright for the inbound MICE market

with the devalued rupee making India an attractive destination.
Also, with the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) on the anvil
this year for Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) and Europe making a slight
recovery there should definitely be a momentum in inbound
traffic, especially if we can make the world feel secure about their
safety in India.
MICEtalk spoke to agents, associations, corporates and hotels
about the growing demand for India as a destination. We bring
you their responses. 2014 also looks good for the outbound MICE
segment. Estimated to be around USD 600 million at present,
it is expected to grow in the next few years by 12-13 per cent.
In a bid to woo business travellers, national tourism offices
of many countries, are launching marketing initiatives and schemes
to assist in easy travel and hassle-free organisation of events.
Mauritius has become a popular destination for MICE and
weddings. The island has all the key ingredients required for
successful MICE events for small and large groups. It provides
luxury accommodation, excellent conference arrangements and
a host of team-building activity options. It registered an increase
of over 15 per cent in Indian tourist arrivals last year.
editorial
Dear Reader,
Oman, a beautiful and very clean country, is fast growing into a

very attractive destination, especially for the high-end groups, with
excellent roads, luxury hotels and resorts, beaches, mountains, the
desert and plenty of activities and souks that are a dream for MICE
delegates wanting to take that certain exotic gift back home. Read
all about it in this issue along with our regular columns, and dont
forget to keep those questions flowing in to our Life Coach expert!
Enjoy!
Deepa Sethi
Bharat Chawla
Shagun Ahlawat
Advertisement Designer
Vikas Mandotia
Nitin Kumar
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MICEtalk November 2014
contents
14
c
oVer story
India Rising
8 Facts
20 country talk
Mauritius
24 city talk
Nizwa, Oman
26 Venue talk
IFEMA Feria de Madrid
28 lets talk
Anna Singh, Assistant MD, ATPI India
30 Domestic mice
Hyderabad bullish on MICE
32 yours oFFicially
40
Cover Photo:
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi
HE Helal Almarri, Director General

Department of Tourism &
Commerce Marketing, Dubai
34 master Plan
Rishi Khandelwal, Director, Wish

Bone India
contents
22
24
26
30
36 Hotel talk
54 cHecklist
38 mice initiatiVe
56 social resPonsibility
40 ViewPoint
58 tecH talk
Reservations Check
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

NTOs Luring Indian Travellers
Food for Thought
Benson Tang, Regional Director, Asia,

Association of Corporate
Travel Executives
Appetite for Tech
42 awarDs
India Travel Awards East
46 lets connect
Highlights from Vkonect
50 exPert talk
58
Crib, Crib, Crib!
52 etiquette talk
Women, Business and Workplace
60 Visa talk
61 moVements
62 eVents
facts
facts
GBTA boosts
capacity
at GBTA
Conference
2014 in Berlin
n The Global Business Travel
Association (GBTA) and VDR,

the German business travel
association announced plans for
an additional 20 per cent capacity
for those looking to attend the
GBTA Conference Berlin.
The conference will be held from
November 12-14, 2014
and will incorporate VDRs
autumn symposium.
Abu Dhabi Tourism

goes mobile
n Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi)
recently launched its first mobile app for its online resource,
bringing all the events in the Emirate together on one platform,
making it easier for residents and visitors to stay connected.
Available in two languagesArabic and Englishthe freeto-download app is suitable for iOS, including iPhone, iPad,
Android and tablets providing regular updates on the full list of
events taking place.
IBTM Africa partners with MICE Academy

n Part of the IBTM Global Events portfolio, IBTM Africa will be partnering
with the MICE Academy in order to help carry forward the development and
enhancement of the next generation of industry professionals in Africa. Through
its subscriber based web portal, the MICE Academy has created the Continuing
Professional Development (CPD) Programme for all segments of the meetings
and events trade. An annual subscription will be given to the first 20 exhibitors
at next years IBTM Africa. This will be funded by Reed Travel Exhibitions and
the IBTM Portfolio of Events. Individuals participating in the CPD programme
will also receive an invitation to the IBTM Africa Forum education sessions and
networking events.
GBTA, on its fifth anniversary,

announced that it had attracted
a record number of corporate
buyer registrations. It also stated
that it expects to reach a total
number of about 800, in order
to strengthen its position
as Europes largest business
travel conference.
A combination of the partnership
with VDR, the commitment
from GBTAs regional members
and other partners, more than
20 education sessions, seven
leading CEO featured speakers,
a high ratio of corporate buyers
and a prime location at the heart
of the economic recovery in
Europe have all contributed to
such phenomenal interest, said
Catherine McGavock, Regional
Director for EMEA, GBTA.
The event is scheduled to
commence three days after
the city celebrates the 25th
anniversary of the fall of the
Berlin Wall.
25 years for San Diego Convention Center

n The San Diego Convention Center is turning 25 this November. In celebration of this milestone, the Convention Center
Corporation is hosting a celebratory luncheon on November 7. The event will serve as a community fundraiser to benefit the
Downtown San Diego Partnerships Make Change Count programme, which will provide aid to the homeless population in
downtown San Diego.
Unity all the way

for Pragues new
destination branding
n Prague Convention Bureau and Prague City Tourism, both
organisations that represent Prague in the field of tourism

have agreed to use a visual style of the city that is unified. With
the aim of unifying promotion of Prague and strengthening
the citys position as a tourist and convention leading
destination, both organisations have recently established close
co-operation. The new visual style of Prague Convention
Bureau that is based on Prague City Tourisms new branding
and marketing campaign will be introduced at the Prague
Convention Bureau Press Conference at IMEX America.
Book on-the-go
using ATPI Groups
mobile app
n The ATPI Group launched further enhancements
to its On the Go app, ensuring that business

travellers today have the absolute latest version
of the technology. Started as a result of direct
customer feedback, the new version offers a more
modern look and feel with enhanced mobile
itinerary features. Clients can now view flight
itineraries rail and car reservations, hotels and more
all in one place. Flight information for iPhone or
iPad users can now also be placed into a passbook
ensuring it is even easier to recover and record
travel data, including boarding passes. The new
features will support the existing features including
a sophisticated mobile database which automatically
loads itinerary details for all bookings, plus alerts
and real-time updates about flight schedules relating
to travellers specific itineraries and detailed local
weather information.
facts
facts
Exhibitors
generate
more than
400,000
each at The
Meetings
Show 2014
n According to a post show
Mumbai to go Beyond
Boundaries with INK2014
n The fifth edition of the INK Conference being held at The
Grand Hyatt, Mumbai, aims to go Beyond Boundaries. The
conference is enthused by the capacity of many to challenge
labels and limitations to take on global challenges and
envision a new future. This years theme for INK2014 is
looking to put together inspirational thoughts and stories
of those who really step beyond boundaries. Spread over
a duration of three days from October 31 to November 2,
INK Live 2014 will witness the participation of more than 50
speakers across a variety of fields, who will be delivering mind
stimulating talks over 10 sessions. The conference will consist
of direct interactions, collaborative workshops, engaging
discussions as well as other learning activities with peers.
research, exhibitors at The

Meetings Show 2014 are
expected to generate an average
of 409,551 of new business as
a direct result of exhibiting at
the show. With 474 exhibiting
companies this year, the show
saw an increase of 20 per cent
from 2013. The average number
of pre-scheduled appointments
per exhibitor was 21 with a
number of them going beyond
100 appointments. Exhibitors
also benefited from the large
number of walk on meetings.
The Meetings Show 2015 will
be held from July 7-9, 2015 at
Olympia, London. It will be
organised by Centaur Exhibitions
and is a major event for the UK
inbound and outbound meetings
industry. Put together by meeting
professionals for meeting
professionals it is focussed
around a large exhibition,
networking opportunities and
professional education.
ICCA 2014 Congress attracts

record participants
n The 53rd 2014 ICCA Congress taking place from November 1-5, 2014, in Antalya,
Turkey passed 800 registrations. Leading suppliers from the international meetings
industry from across 71 countries have registered for the upcoming ICCA Congress.
Furthermore, 197 delegates signed up and pre-qualified for ICCAs value generating
Business Exchange.
10
facts
Business
travellers
prefer
paying
with their
mobile:
SITA
report
n According to a new
New convention centre opens

at Thailands Big Mountain
n Khao Yai, already a popular weekend destination, is now all set to lure the
meetings segment with its new convention centre. Khao Yai Convention Center
(KYCC) started its operations in July this year. Residing within a multipurpose
area, the center offers 3,700 sq m of indoor meeting space, which includes an
impressive ballroom, a 970 sq m exhibition hall, and seven meeting rooms. Khao
Yai in Nakhon Ratchasima province is home to Thailands oldest national park
that translates as Big Mountain in English.
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort

launches additional event spaces
n The Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort has started new meeting facilities,
establishing that the resort is now also a suitable venue for medium-sized meetings.
There is a 716 sq m ballroom at the centre that has room for up to 350 delegates in
theatre style and 290 guests banquet style. The resort has also unveiled three meeting
rooms. Tony Pedroni, General Manager of the Resort, said that the new spaces will
allow the resort to host team-building programmes with a uniquely Thai twist.
survey by air transport

technology firm SITA
and Air Transport
World, nearly half
of the passengers
travelling by air would
prefer to use their
smartphones for
payments
while travelling.
A large number of
leisure and business
travellers were surveyed
by SITA this year, which
during the previous six
months had travelled
across the major
airports in Africa, the
Americas, Middle East,
Europe and AsiaPacific. Almost 67 per
cent of respondents
were leisure travellers,
while 33 per cent were
business travellers.
As 97 per cent of
travellers that were
questioned said they
carried a smartphone,
laptop or tablet when
traveling, it does not
come as a surprise that
many of them want to
use their mobile devices
to facilitate or enhance
their travel experiences.
11
facts
facts
Dubai to
host MICE
Arabia Congress
in Feb 2015
n The UAE is positioned as one
of the leading global hubs for

inbound and outbound business
travel. The citizens of the UAE are
exempted from visas to visit all 25
Schengen countries. There
is also an optimistic outlook
towards parallel actions for other
GCC countries. The 3rd Annual
MICE Arabia Congress 2015 will
be taking place on February 22-23,
2015 in Dubai. The event has been
designed so as to provide travel
and stay solution providers an
exclusive platform to meet one to
one with the leading corporations
from the GCC. Around 100 of the
top corporate buyers and agencies
from some of the most renowned
companies in the Middle East will
meet one-on-one at the MICE
Arabia Congress 2015.
KLCC upgrades
website to enhance
user experience
n The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre upgraded its
website with new features to enhance user experience and
overall connectivity for its users worldwide. The centre
has taken full-advantage of new technologies to make
navigation easier and introduce new, customised features
for consumers planning events. The browsing capability
and user-friendliness of the site have also been enhanced.
The latest upgrades come as an add-on to the previous
core functions of the all-inclusive facilities of the centre.
They come as an addition to the already existing value
packages and easily accessible key corporate information
including the centres policy on Environment, Social
Sustainability, Food Safety & Quality, the latest Corporate
Social Responsibility (CSR) Report and other relevant
information like awards, calendar of events, media
releases and much more.
12
3rd International
Tourism Mart held in
Shillong, Meghalaya
n The 3rd International Tourism
Mart, organised by the Ministry of

Tourism, Government of India, in
association with the North Eastern
States and West Bengal was
officially inaugurated in Shillong,
Meghalaya. The International
Tourism Mart was inaugurated by
Dr. Mukul Sangma, Chief Minister
of Meghalaya in the presence of
Shri Shripad Naik , Union Minister
of State for Tourism and Culture.
The Mart was held from October
1315, 2014.
cover story
India
Rising
Its been a while since global associations,
education forums and various reports/
surveys have been highlighting the fact
that India is being looked at as one of the
preferred MICE destinations in Asia. With
a shift in the government, emphasis on
tourism, setting up of world class hotels and
focus on infrastructural development; we
tried to find out how ready are we?
Ekta Marwaha
ccording to the ITB World Travel Trend

Report 2013-14, India is predicted to be one
of the growth drivers in the global business
travel industry. Based on the survey results,
regions such as Asia and the Middle East are expected
to close the travel gap with mature markets in the
years to come, while growth is predicted in the
South to be led by countries such as Brazil and India.
Similarly GBTAs semi-annual BTI Outlook-India,
predicts seven per cent growth to $2.6 billion in 2015,
and states that India accounts for $38 of every $100
spent globally at present.
Are we prepared?
The report maybe futuristic and things may or may

not change in the times to come, but to figure out
14
cover story
of development. On the contrary, Usman E Gani,

Manager-Facilities and Travel, Tavant Technologies
believes India is certainly MICE ready and says, We
have everything, the top hotels, beautiful destinations,
good hospitality, world food; and everyone is looking
to India because of all these reasons and more, we
need to tap into this market and show what Indias
true potential is.
Biggest Challenges
Sanjay Khanna
Deputy General Manager,
Procurement and Travel,
Birlasoft
Sridhar Shinde
Assistant Vice President
and Head Administration
and Facilities,
Concentrix
Usman E Gani
Manager-Facilities
and Travel,
Tavant Technologies
where we stand today, Sanjay Khanna, Deputy

General Manager, Procurement and Travel, Birlasoft
tells us, Its true that Indias MICE market has a huge
potential, but we still have a long way to go. Both our
government and the travel fraternity have to do a lot
as the basics are missing. Adding to that Sridhar
Shinde, AVP and Head Administration and Facilities,
Concentrix says, India is beautiful for MICE in every
way except for infrastructure. I would say, overall
hospitality and hotels are good, but I would rate India
very low in terms of connectivity and transportation.
We just cant match up with the world in that aspect.
Things may improve because of the new government
and our Prime Ministers efforts, but we need more
investors to come up front and add to the cause
Sanjay Gurav, Assistant

Manager-Corporate, Larsen
and Toubro tells us, All
are aware that tourism
is considered among the
top five revenue generating
sectors in the world, but we
arent taking it seriously.
Unless theres support from
all the stakeholders, basic Sanjay Gurav
infrastructure,
knowledge Assistant Manager-Corporate,
and awareness, systematic Larsen and Toubro
visa-on-arrival, how will we grow? The current
government has taken it up in its manifesto to promote
tourism and lets see how things shape up.
He adds, Go to any country the first person you will
encounter is the immigration officer. Even in smaller
countries, they will have basic knowledge, guide you,
comfort you and know basic language, but we know
where we stand there. Besides tangible infrastructure,
cover story
even people need to be trained; we need better tour

guides to make our tourists comfortable and have
a friendly approach.
Geetha Arekal
Regional Travel Head (APAC),
Northern Trust
Reinstating that fact, Geetha

Arekal, Regional Travel Head
(APAC), Northern Trust says,
I really dont think India
is there in terms of being
a MICE destination. Theres
a long way to go, still. Our
infrastructure and all are
still developing, and I see
much more inbound in terms
of leisure than conferences,
also because we dont have that
kind of convention centres
or space.
Measures to promote Brand India
I feel things may improve because of our current

government and our Prime Ministers emphasis
is on tourism. Stakeholders need to do their best
in promotion and invest in it too, says Shinde.
We need to do a lot of destination selling through
various travel marts that are happening across the
globe but before that we need to have a robust
structure in place so that we can manage MICE in
a more effective and efficient manner. Currently the
structure is very scattered and not in proper shape,
says Khanna.
Hopefully with the new government, we may
see a change take place. Stakeholders need
to be more involved, education forums are important
to understand global trend. We also need better
flight connectivity, a faster visa procedure, better
road transportation, and then wait and watch, as all
of it wont happen overnight, says Gurav.
Also, we see more inbound only for leisure
or business, leisure again is on your own and business
has a conservative growth. We need to have our
17
presence felt outside. Look at things from a more

modern aspect, which is not yet followed by our Indian
market. Lots of coordination needs to be done, which
we dont have. The growth is slow, but the younger
generation is spending more money, says Arekal.
With eVisa and tax waivers, a lot of people are looking
at India, and Asia is of course on the rise, at a time like
18
this we must promote Brand India and make it more

visible globally, adds Gani.
Outbound vs Inbound
With all eyes turning to India, why do our corporates

decide to look at outbound? Most of the time it is
the cost factor, says Gurav. Adding to that, Khanna
says, In my opinion, this is purely cost driven and
cover story
if budgets allow preference is given to destinations

outside India.
I dont think theres anything like that, and with
so much cost-cutting these days, incentives make
no sense. What MNCs are doing is that they are
incentivising their partners and employees with cash
reward in place of such travel. Employees also enjoy
that more than these trips. There are times when
travel is necessary but that makes sense when one has
to attend seminars, or travel for networking; and in a
case like that outbound/inbound doesnt matter. This
cash reward keeps things clear and transparent. As
they say, a penny saved is a penny earned, says Arekal.
Shinde adds, When we talk about domestic, we have
lots of options but Goa is the preferred choice followed
by Kerala. But sometimes we may get better deals for
outbound to countries such as Thailand. So, it totally
depends on the deal.
The Konkan belt has so many virgin beaches and
beautiful unexplored land, but no development has
taken place there. We actually have lots more to give to
the world in terms of destination and each state has its
own beauty but we need to create and promote them.
Right now people feel that India is limited and look
outside for exotic locations. Also, for us budget plays
an important part as if I compare tickets to Andaman
and Nicobar vs Bangkok or Pattaya; solely due to the

availability of airlines, the tickets fall way cheaper,
adds Gurav.
How do Associations add to the industry?
Associations keep you in the loop of all the latest. Its

an ongoing process that helps you remain aware and
with their regular meetings/education forums they
create a strong carry home value, help connect with
travel associations across the globe, opening up eyes
to new practices, learning, and facility management
and the exchange of ideas is great, expresses Arekal.
Associations like ACTE / GBTA, among others are a
great platform and the way they are structured these
associations can help in many ways in increasing
MICE in India. They help us network, see new
trends and create good understanding, says Khanna.
Association representation is certainly required.
They act as a messenger, give us a platform for global
feedback, create a forum for learning and exchange
thoughts and are doing a fair job. But we need more
such associations in India itself too, says Gani.
In India, I dont see many active associations, but
outside they are so active and prompt. I appreciate
such programmes and they add as a growth mover for
the industry. It is a good learning experience and India
must also become active at it, says Shinde.
19
country talk
auritius has won the bid to host the second

Annual Destination Wedding Planners
Congress to be held in 2015. Besides the
spotlight being also on Mauritius as a
most preferred Wedding Destination, this will be the
best opportunity to promote Mauritius as a primary
MICE destination vis--vis the large infrastructure
and a business-friendly environment. In the year
2013, approximately 6000 visitors from India were in
Mauritius for MICE events.
Island of MICE
Mauritius
Besides its natural splendour, Mauritius has all the key facilities
required for organising successful meetings, conferences and events.
A variety of premium accommodation, travel management service
providers, state-of-the-art venues and a vast array of team-building
activities make for a worthy MICE setup on this isle.
Shubhi Tandon
20
country talk
Maradiva Villas Resort and Spa Mauritius
Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA)

offers various incentives like cash return up to Rs. 2
Lakh, extra luggage up to seven kg on Air Mauritius,
fast-track immigration, special welcome with Sega
dance, helicopter sightseeing visits, heli-lunches or
heli-golf excursions at preferential group rates for
MICE travellers.
Venues
Mauritius has an advantage over other MICE

destinations in the Indian Ocean as it has the regions
largest and most modern convention centre, Swami
Vivekananda International Conference Centre
(SVICC) in Pailles. This centre provides all the facilities
needed for large international conferences and can
accommodate up to 5,000 people at any one time.
Located within a 10-minute drive from the capital city,
Port Louis, the SVICC stands on a land area of 53,865
sq m. The centre opened its door in January 2005.
Surrounded by a lush green landscape, the SVICC has
been built with state-of-the-art architectural concepts
and finishes.
Swami Vivekananda International Conference Centre
Mauritius
The Oberoi Mauritius
21
country talk
Mauritian hotels also offer conferencing facilities and

can cater to up to 800 people at a time.
Team-building Activities
The Island boasts a wide variety of outdoor recreational

activities that can be specifically geared around MICE
groups, ranging from golf on lush green courses with
the turquoise sea as a backdrop, to adventure sports
such as quad-biking, trekking, mountain biking, ziplining, hunting, kite-surfing, parasailing, canoeing,
sky-diving, catamaran cruises and exploring the ocean
belly in a specially designed submarine. The island
also offers countless picturesque outdoor locations for
team-building exercises. Groups can take up activities
like walking with the Lions at the Casela Park or enjoy
swimming with dolphins or marvel at the sight of the
mighty whales.
The centre is equipped with high-end technological
facilities such as broadband wireless internet (Wi-Fi),
video conferencing on-demand, satellite transmission
on demand, etc. The Atrium of 2,000 sq m serves as
a grand entrance into the centre and is perfect for
banquets, gala dinners, cocktails and receptions. The
Main Hall measures 50 m x 70 m and is 15.5 m high
and can host conventions, concerts, gala receptions,
trade shows and exhibitions.
Other venues include the International Conference
Centre in Grand Bay which accommodates up to 600
people and the Freeport Exhibition in Mer Rouge
which accommodates up to 1,000 delegates. Many
why mauritius?
Apart from having the infrastructure to cater
to MICE groups all year round, a moderate

climate throughout the year makes Mauritius
a perfect year round destination.
Mauritius accords visa-free arrivals for Indian

passport holders.
Mauritius is well connected to India by Air
Mauritius, which has flights from major

metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and
Bengaluru.
22
Food and Entertainment
Mauritian restaurants offer visitors a range of Indian,

Chinese, Arabian, Creole and European dishes. As
Mauritius has over 70 per cent population of Indian
descent, Indian food is very popular and easily
available. There is easy availability of Indian vegetarian
food as well.
Mauritius is lively even in late eveningmainly in the
north and west coast, where many nightclubs, pubs,
casinos and restaurants come alive with bustling
crowds. DJs are often invited for special occasions by
the hotels on demand for gala evenings. Sega dance,
French and English pop music, as well as techno and
jazz, are all popular night-time sounds in Mauritius.
Green Events
Talking about green events, Vivek Anand, Country

Manager, MTPA India says, According to a WHO
survey, Mauritius has the second cleanest air in the
world and is an ideal place to de-stress and rejuvenate
yourself. Green tourism in Mauritius is rapidly
growing through the number of reserves that are
beginning to open up to tourists as well. Together,
they offer many activities ranging from trekking and
canoeing to horse-riding, plus exceptional panoramic
viewpoints over the beautiful Mauritian landscape.
city talk
Omani Wonder
Nizwa
One of the largest

cities in the country,
Nizwa is about 150
km from the capital,
Muscat. The city offers
a perfect location as
a MICE getaway with
panoramic views and
heritage sites. MICEtalk
explores further the
facilities it offers for
meetings, conventions
and events.
Deepa Sethi from Oman
city talk
he Alila Jabal Akhdar in Oman is the

perfect location for a leadership programme
or retreat. Revisiting and strengthening
leadership qualities has become imperative for
organisations in todays very competitive business
environment. However, it is as important to relax and
recharge your physical and mental faculties to gain
leadership excellence.
The Hotel & Resort perched 2000 m above sea level,
is far from the bustle of modern life, the region offers
an escape to solitude, nature, fresh air and the most
amazing panoramic views. The resort is surrounded
by Al Hajar mountains, Jebel Shams (Omans highest
mountain) small hamlets, old, uninhabited villages,
caves and canyons, as well as countless small roads
connecting to new valleys and views.
The Mediterranean climate here makes it ideal for the
cultivation of many types of fruits and Omans famed
damask roses, which bloom from March to May,
covering the mountain side in swathes of pink. The
roses harvested each year are used to make Omani
rose water, a staple in every Omani household used as
a culinary flavouring, fragrance and medicinal remedy.
Meeting Facilities
The ambience is perfect as an off-site meeting place.

The service is excellent. The dcor is in very good taste
and the rooms are clean and spacious. Restaurants
are quiet, with an excellent menu. There is an air of
competence, even in such a new property.
There is a boardroom for 12 people, attached to a
library, which can be used as the breakaway room. It
also has a workstation with two computers and free
Wi-Fi. There is an endless variety of activities on offer
for people wanting more than just work. It has a wellequipped gym and spa, and the infinity pool has an
amazing panoramic view.
Environment friendly
Committed to an eco-friendly future, the resort

is designed to respect the environment and fit
places to see
The area is also a treasure for history and culture
enthusiasts, who can explore the many heritage
sites in the cities of Nizwa, Bahla, Ebri and more,
such as Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle and UNESCOprotected Bahla Fort.
access
150 km from Muscat International Airport, 2.5
hours drive from Muscat.
Only accessible by Four-Wheel Drive
(4WD)
Check applicable visa conditions for your
entry into Oman
Located in the central section of the Al Hajar
Mountains
Things to do
From trekking, canyon walks, cave exploration and other

outdoor pursuits, to discovering the cultural and culinary
traditions, connecting with the environment and community, or
indulging in wellness, Alila offers unique interactions with the
destination-based on guests personal preferences.
harmoniously into the site, preserving the natural
beauty of the region.
Event to attend
The Mindful Stillness Retreat

30 November-6 December 2014
Mindful Leadership Retreats Ltd. will host the
first mindful retreat at Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman.
Experience a 7-day mountain retreat, cultivating
mindful leadership to round up the curriculum
practices and to deepen your mindfulness leadership
meditation and the hallmarks of leadership excellence.
Daily practices, which start before sunrise and end
after sunset, cultivate mindful stillness practices in
pure nature, surrounded by breath-taking views of
the Jabal Akhdar mountains. This includes additional
effective mindful practices and a personal meeting
with the Mindful Leadership Teacher, Christian
Kurmann to discuss and guide your needs for better
cultivating and exploring your inner-self and personal
leader abilities.
getting there
Travel Directly from Muscat Airport to Alila2.5 hours. USD 310
Via Wadi Bani Auf, Nakhal or the hot water springs and Hat (the
mountains)almost a day. USD 400 including lunch and guide.
Via historical city of Nizwa, visit to Nizwa Souk and Fortfull day
trip. USD 375 including lunch at a restaurant and guide.
*In all options: 4WD car and max 4 per car. The cost is per car, tailor
made packages available for larger groups.
For more information info@omanworldtourism.com
25
venue talk
Spanish Charm
IFEMA Feria de Madrid
IFEMA Feria de Madrid is located in one of the citys most dynamic business settings,
just 12 minutes from the Madrid Barajas International Airport and 20 minutes from
the city centre, with excellent transport links and outstanding facilities.
Shubhi Tandon
n recent years, IFEMA has been a leading organiser

of international specialist professional congresses.
According to the Congress and Convention
divisions figures, Feria de Madrid hosted 382
events in 2013 including seven major congresses
with an exhibition, which were attended by 109,050
visitors. The venue therefore played a crucial role in
Madrids rise to second position behind Paris in the
International Congress and Convention Association
(ICCA) global ranking of host cities for congresses.
accommodation
The hotel offering in the vicinity of the site is
very good, with around 2,000 rooms that can
be reached within 15 minutes by taxi or bus,
while Madrid as a whole has an accommodation
capacity of 75,000 rooms.
26
venue talk
The major congresses that have been staged at Feria

de Madrid in recent years include: CphI Worldwide,
ESMO, MRO Aviation Week Europe, Microsoft Tech
Ed Europe, the ATM World Conference, WPA, the
World Psychiatric Association Congress, the World
Petroleum Congress, SAP Sapphire Now & Sapphire
TechEd and the EHRA Europace Congress.
Meeting Facilities
The space that IFEMA offers for MICE covers virtually

the entire Feria de Madrid site. A total of 12 halls,
amounting to a total covered exhibition space of
200,000 sq m; two convention centres located at the
two entrances to the fairground, two auditoriums,
which accommodate 1,100 and 600 participants
respectively, and 90 rooms with different capacities
for all kinds of meetings.
Feria de Madrid provides professional services for
the staging of congresses and international meetings,
which range from assembly, lighting, technical and
audiovisual equipment to catering and attendants plus
any other services that the customer may require.
IFEMA tailors each MICE package to the specific
requirements of the customer. In accordance with the
specific characteristics of the meeting and the needs
of the organiser, bespoke packages are put together
that include all the spaces, sites, assemblies and
services required for the smooth running of the event.
Entertainment and catering options are tailored to the
organisers requirements and programme.
Post-event activities
In line with the recommendations and programmes

proposed by the Spain Convention Bureau, the city
offers a vast array of high-quality, culturally and
socially enriching tours and visits. Visitors can enjoy
green events
IFEMA is equipped with co-generation systems,
solar PV equipment, solar energy modules, and
LED technology. The site is also equipped with
e-vehicle charging points, recycling and waste
recovery plants and sustainable systems for the
maintenance of green spaces.
gastronomic, business and cultural tours and visits to

the citys world-class museums including the Prado
Museum, the Reina Sof a Museum, the Thyssen
Bornemisza Museum, along with musicals, theatre,
flamenco shows and excursions to the outskirts of
Madrid, as well as to Toledo, El Escorial, Segovia, La
Granja palace and Aranjuez.
27
lets talk
What Corporates Want

T
Anna Singh
Assistant MD,
ATPI India
Even though outbound

MICE travel in India is showing
an upswing, an overriding
factor that is on every travel
managers mind is reducing
costs. This means better travel
management and advance
planning. Nevertheless, spouse
travel and exotic destinations
are also taking precedence.
Anna Singh, Assistant MD,
ATPI India tells us more.
Hazel Jain
28
he number one priority for business travel buyers

this year is clearreducing costs. A survey
conducted by ATPI among senior decisionmakers this year echoes this sentiment. Almost
53 per cent of respondents ranked reducing costs as
the most important factor when planning a global
travel programme.
Singh from ATPI India that offers corporate travel
products and services in India, says that MICE and
business travel are definitely the areas that are boosting
outbound travel from India.
The growing interest in MICE and incentive trips has
been phenomenal over the recent months. A case in
point is the volume of corporate passengers that we
have handled since the divisions launch this year. It
was over 1,000-plus passengers this quarter alone, and
the coming quarter looks just as busy! she informs.
lets talk
Exotic MICE
Singh reveals a new trend that the industry is

espyingSpouse Incentive Tours, where dealers take
their partners along on incentive trips.
She elaborates on a few other trends that the sector
is witnessing. The idea behind incentive travel is to
reward well-performing sales executives, dealers,
and associates for their achievements. Therefore
destinations with nightlife, casinos and beaches are
the most popular and repetitive destinations for this.
Places such as Pattaya in Bangkok, Tashkent, Bali,
Dubai, etc. are very popular, he adds.
With regards to events and conferences, Singh says
that corporate companies generally club all these
activities as a package to get maximum returns. To
have that wow factor, corporate companies demand
unexplored destinations with various engaging
experiences. Here, it is very critical for them to add a
unique element for their dealers since the same travel
package is also offered by other competitors to the
same dealers, she says.
Singh adds that as a result, clients are always looking
for a unique experience: for instance, a sunset beach
dinner with the Burj Al Arab as a backdrop or
about ATPI
ATP Event Experts, part of ATPI, was the official
organiser of the Sochi Winter Olympics 2014. It
has also been chosen as the Games Travel Office
provider for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games
2014 as well as been appointed as the Official
Travel Agency for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
ATPI survey: insights

Travel buyers are focussing on planning to help drive down costs
with over half (55 per cent) striving to make more advanced air
bookings, compared to 50 per cent in 2013. However, keeping a
keen eye on costs is followed closely by a flexible travel policy, which
has moved to second place since the same survey was undertaken
last year.
champagne and breakfast in a hot air balloon, visiting

Angkor Wat or an open-air meeting in the wilderness
of Johannesburg. Lavish dinners and exotic cuisines
at exotic locations has always been an essential
ingredient of every outbound MICE movement,
she says.
Challenges for MICE in India
Underlining some of the challenges that operators

face for conducting MICE within India, Singh says
that Indias large geographical spread is a hindrance in
terms of reach. Add to that, the lack of connectivity of
flights and bad roadsbasically lack of seamless travel
is a problem. Inadequate sources of English-speaking
manpower, limited inventory of rooms in nonmetros, fewer licensed guides, and lack of honesty
towards domestic and international touristsall
these pose a huge problem when it comes to inbound
MICE, she says.
A strong understanding between the various parties
and working hand-in-hand is a pre-requisite for
inbound and domestic MICE. Singh adds, The
tourism boards, airlines, hotels, transporters and
tourist organisationsall need to work together to
reach out to the MICE client rather than working
against each other.
29
domestic MICE
Hyderabad Bullish
on MICE
Sharad Datta, General Manager, Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre and Courtyard
Sharad Datta, General Manager, Hyderabad Marriott

Hotel & Convention Centre and Courtyard, talks about
the city becoming an ideal choice for MICE events.
arkets like Hyderabad which have probably

borne the maximum brunt of the slowdown
have seen a gradual turnaround beginning
in the third quarter. I foresee the last quarter
to be fairly strong and hopefully this should bode well
for the following year. With the separate state decision
announcement, the uncertainty should subside and
international travelprimarily for MICEshould see
a boost.
The increased stability will now help improve the
investment in the city from IT Enabled Services
(ITeS), biotechnology, pharma and aerospace sectors.
Connectivity within Hyderabad too is set to get better
with the introduction of L&T metro, which will change
the face of public transport and boost infrastructure.
30
All these elements will improve the conditions for

hoteliers. The domestic sector has supported the
industry during the difficult phase, and this should
continue to grow as a segment. Warming of travel
sentiments in major source markets like the US and
Europe post elections should give a much needed vote
of confidence for leisure and business travellers alike.
Changing demand supply dynamics
The demand-supply dynamics across the country has

changed rapidly in the last year. Most brands that
opened up from 2010 until last year were an answer
to the pent up demand situation that persisted in
the period of 2005-2007. But due to the economic
instability there has been a marginal increase in
demand compared to the increase in supply.
domestic MICE
This rise in supply has resulted in a rate pressure

across the country. The moderation in terms of hotel
rates has made hotels more affordable to the domestic
customers at several destinations. The fragility in the
market has also given an opportunity for hotels to
revisit their strategies in terms of sourcing, marketing,
cost controlling, etc. It is however important for hotels
to recognise and maintain their price points, lest
opportunities for rate corrections become untenable
during the upswing.
Hyderabad often viewed as the

ideal MICE destination, will the
trend continue?
Hyderabad has enjoyed the limelight of being a MICE

destination as it was the only city in the country that
had the infrastructure to host large conferences. The
emergence of quality convention centres in other
parts of the country is giving Hyderabad a run for its
money. However with the growing pace of pharma
and healthcare sectors in the city, Hyderabad should
remain a preferred city for most organisers. This
will greatly depend on the government focussing on
this traditional strength of the city, and supporting
marketing and infrastructure initiatives for Hyderabad.
This is also important as there is competition from
international venues for global events, and these
events, if won by Hyderabad, will enhance the citys
image as a premier MICE destination.
Emergence and impact

of online marketing
The business of travel has evolved rapidly in the last
few years and today electronic channels have become
an integral source for driving revenue. At Hyderabad
Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre, we have seen a
208 per cent increase in our online bookings since
2011 while Courtyard by Marriott Hyderabad, has
seen a 164 per cent increase.
We are at an age where our travellers are hyperconnected and prefer being well informed of the
places they are visiting and where they are staying
at. Travel review sites like TripAdvisor have become
very popular among travellers and play a strong role in
influencing choices.
Marriott Hotels regard guest feedback very highly
and has developed many processes and surveys
internally to benchmark excellence in hospitality and
service. Today a guest has many mediums to share
their feedback, which no longer remains between the
guest and the hotel management but for the entire
travel community to view. This has spiked the interest
among hotel chains to increase and improve their
online reputation.
Technologys role in improving

guest experience
Earlier technology was perceived simply as an enabler
to carry out the business but today we understand the

real benefit of technology that is to enhance the whole
guest experiencethe entertainment, the comfort,
the extent to which we can do so much to personalise
and enhance the guests experience.
The advent of smartphones has helped a great deal in
making travel easy and smart. Right from choosing the
destination to travel to, to booking a room at a hotel
and reading its reviews can now be done at the click
of a button. The Marriott website is now designed as a
mobile app compatible with all smartphones so that a
traveller can book his stay while on-the-go.
Applications like book to eat, that we use at Marriott,
helps a guest book a table at their preferred restaurant
via their mobile phones, an email confirmation is then
sent to the guest as well as to the hotel. This makes the
process much easier and efficient for both guests and
the restaurants.
Virtual concierge service again is a technology
powered process, wherein guests can share their
special requirements and preferences such as featherfree pillows, extra towels and amenities, itinerary for a
city tour, etc. with our hotels prior to their arrival. This
helps us in creating bespoke experiences for our guest.
Technology has also become instrumental in
developing green practices as there is an increase in
the number of environmentally conscious travellers.
Today we have corporates and independent travellers
asking hotels of the measures they take to preserve the
environment and this has become a deciding factor
for those who keenly seek to reduce their carbon
footprint. Spirit to Preserve is part of the Marriotts
brand ethos, where emphasis is laid on creating
innovative green practices that make the hotel more
eco-friendly and enables guests to travel responsibly.
(Views expressed in the article are that of the author)
31
yours officially
Dubai Calling
World Expo 2020
HE Helal Almarri
Director General
Department of Tourism
& Commerce Marketing
Dubai
A new strategy has

been put in place
for Dubai as a
tourist destination,
focusing on the
World Expo 2020,
but also to improve
tourism into Dubai,
while ensuring
sustainable growth
in the sector.
Deepa Sethi
32
ts very humbling to be selected for the World Expo

2020, which will attract about 25 million visitors.
However, we are not working and designing
only for this event, we are looking at long-term
opportunities Dubai is a place where different
cultures meet, for business and leisure, we plan to be
equipped for this.
This project actually started quite a long time ago. The
association was not struggling with hosting such a
large event, they were looking at how to develop their
presence and host markets from the whole world and
why dubai?
Dubai as a destination for meetings, incentives,
conferences and exhibitions (MICE) and Sports
events is growing rapidly as the infrastructure
including transportation, hotels and other
facilities are expanding along with increased
standards of services.
how Dubai would sustain them. The trade event would

be the largest in the history of Dubai in the number of
people and the number of nationalities. We thought
of how the association can have a presence and how
can we get the synergy and make sure we are able
to pack in the right resources, for which we started
working with a corporate structure. When they saw
the progress we were making they wanted to help us
on the ground to see the numbers grow more and
more. Its good for the city!
To improve airline connections, we decided to make
Dubai into an airline hub, for which we closed our
airport for renovation for this development. We
now have to ensure best practices so that the whole
region prospers.
must know
Dubai has the necessary elements and
capabilities to handle events of any size
throughout the year.
With over 80,000+ hotel rooms and furnished
flats, Dubai remains a dynamic destination where
it is easy to conduct business.
With a population of two million and counting
and over 200+ different nationalities, the city
offers a strategic location midway between the
Far East and Europe.
Dubai is the fifth most popular destination in the

world. We attract people from across the world with
world-class theme parks, the best hotels, shopping etc.
In fact, young people are bound to come back again
and again because there is always something new
happening - new attractions and new experiences!
Our gastro offering really has become second to none.
We have many homegrown brands, which cover
diverse cuisines from China to America. We look very
carefully at our product offerings to ensure diversity
for our source markets (including our home market);
depending on which part of the world we go to, we find
that people talk about Dubai differently, highlighting
world-class shopping, gold souks, sightseeing, cuisine,
restaurants, beaches, desert safaris, hotels and resorts,
MICE activities and support systems its all here!
Dubai is today recognised as a brand, as a city that
looks to the future.
33
master plan
Event Strategy
In a time when the world is looking towards India as a popular MICE
destination, Rishi Khandelwal, Director, Wish Bone India (WBI), explains
where we stand, and the key areas MICE planners must look into.
ndia ranks 27th in the MICE market with

a share of US$4.8 billion worldwide. With the new
government at the Centre declaring tourism as one
of the key thrust area as well as state governments
efforts in improving the countrys infrastructure
with state-of-the-art convention centres, the share
can only rise.
34
not necessarily always required. Along with facilities

for meetings, destinations which offer recreational
opportunities and learning in relaxed settings
are important.
MICE buyers always look for new and unique

destinations and India has so much variety
to offer, but, to give impetus to MICE tourism,
India must undertake strategic branding of India
in the international market, besides developing
amenities to facilitate business traveller.
We at WBI aim to provide solid infrastructure, long

term vendor relationship and leading technology.
With unparalleled customer service and attention to
detail, we offer suite of services to client worldwide.
We handle every detail, leaving our clients free to focus
on the message. Our goal is to continually provide a
world of difference to our client every time! Our team
is 100 per cent committed to deliver seamless logistical
and an exceptional attendee experience.
The important factors organisers must look

for in hotels are flexibility, personalisation, and
most importantly value. Choose hotels that have
greater availability and better space formats
Rishi Khandelwal
to host larger groups. Customised package and a tie-up
Director,
Wish Bone India (WBI) for a long term on better rates is the foremost demand.
Second come security and comfort. Organisers must
look for value for money and an exotic location is
Wish Bone India is a Destination Management

Company that specialises in India and the
subcontinent, primarily focussing on Tailor Made
Travel Program, customised to the taste and
preferences of discerning traveller. WBI is currently
focussing at UK, France and Benelux countries. They
participate in trade fairs and have representative
offices in UK and France.
hotel talk
Arabian Nights @
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
Uniquely positioned, Abu Dhabi
is a place where historic landmarks and
sandy beaches co-exist with international
commerce, where traditional Arabic
architecture meets contemporary
skyscrapers. A sparkling addition to this
vibrant centre is Fairmont Bab Al Bahr.
Megha Paul from Abu Dhabi
36
ith superior hospitality, state-of-theart technology and more than 2,500

sq m (26,900 sq ft) of flexible, modern
meeting space, this new, business-friendly
hotel offers an unforgettable experience of this
dynamic region.
Service and settings unlike any other, Fairmont
Bab Al Bahr promises an event like no other. Fresh,
contemporary meeting venuesincluding a unique,
open-air spacecan be divided into versatile
configurations, providing an easily customised
setting. State-of-the-art audio-visual technology
including video-conferencing and LCD plasma TV
monitorsand delightful banqueting options make
every moment productive and enjoyable.
hotel talk
guests, through details such as personal butler

service, private check-in and check-out, and
access to an exclusive 24-hour lounge, offering
complimentary refreshments.
The on-site Business Centre offers IT Butler
service, computer rental, printing, faxing and
secretarial services.
Our full-service Willow Stream Spa and fitness
centre (opening in 2010) deliver the utmost
in relaxation.
On-site recreation includes access to a private
beach and two swimming pools.
Conventions in an unconventional way

For events of any size
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr offers eight versatile meeting

rooms, accommodating a wide range of functions
from a private executive retreat to an international
convention. The lofty Saker Ballroom, which can
accommodate up to 900 reception guests, offers
splendid, floor-to-ceiling views of the Abu Dhabi
Creek. The unique outdoor function area, the Falcon
Lawn, treats guests to brilliant views of the piers and
waters of the Abu Dhabi Creek. Smaller occasions
are given no less attention to detail. The hotels
multifunctional facilities also include more intimate
rooms, such as the Dalma Boardroom and Bu Tinah
Pier, a remarkable waterfront venue that projects into
the creek for spectacular vistas of the Sheikh Zayed
Grand Mosque.
The complete experience
Throughout its modern interior and 369 guest rooms

and suites, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr is sure to impress
with a vast array of offerings, including Fairmont
Gold, Willow Stream Spa and an endless assortment
of culinary experiences.
Fairmont Gold ensures the attentive, discreet
service befitting the most discerning business
Saker Ballroom is the largest venue and features

walnut-wood panelling, a seven-metre-high ceiling,
floor-to-ceiling windows providing natural light and
magnificent views of the Abu Dhabi Creek, three
divisible areas, pre-function areas and an outdoor
terrace. Falcon Lawn, one of the citys most distinctive
outdoor function areas, rests on the shoreline of
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, with unrivalled views of the
Abu Dhabi Creek and an adjoining pier.
Bu Tinah Pier that projects into the Abu Dhabi Creek
is ideal for small receptions or an intimate dining
experience. Al Reem can be sectioned off into two
smaller areas and is best suited for medium-sized
events ranging from a business lunch for 100 guests
to an evening reception. Sir Baniyas features a prefunction area flooded with natural light, perfect for
private coffee breaks, working lunches and gathering
before the start of the meeting. The main function
space can also be separated into two distinct areas. Yas
can accommodate boardroom settings and intimate
evening receptions. The striking, contemporary
interior design sets an ambience of calm serenity.
Saadiyat, a versatile meeting space, can accommodate
product launches, workshops and business receptions.
Al Futaisi can be separated into two distinct venues that
can host everything from a stakeholders presentation
to a themed reception.
37
MICE initiative
t is truethe Indian business traveller

is a pampered one, serenaded by the hotels as
well as the destinations they are located in. New
products are being designed and exciting deals are
being cut out to attract this traveller community.
This is because the MICE segment is becoming
increasingly sophisticated with evolving preferences
and interests. Rajeev Kale, COO (MICE, Domestic
& Sports Holidays), Thomas Cook (India), says that
corporates are looking at experiential trips with higher
budgets. We always strive to introduce products
that are untouched by the rest of the marketbe it
through selection of venue, cuisine for the main event
or exciting tours. New, unexplored destinations and
engaging experiences will be the predominant factors
for corporates, he adds.
Short-haul and sweet
However, corporates do expect a certain return on

investment other than just showing their group the
destination. Hanneli Slabber, Country Manager,
South African Tourism, says, They all want something
unique that no other corporate has ever done and an
experience that the group will take back home.
NTOs Luring
Indian Travellers
She adds that MICE suppliers in her country have

pulled out all stops - from event managers to teambuilding experts to securing interesting South African
speakers or entertainment artists.
Pro-active measures like these by the international
tourism boards and NTOs have assured that MICE
travel is not seasonal. Lubaina Sheerazi, India
Representative, Ministry of Tourism, Oman, feels that
Indians are now travelling abroad throughout the year
for business. A destination attracts MICE movements
from India mainly because of direct air connectivity,
close proximity and good infrastructure to host
mega events. A good subsidy/incentive plan and easy
availability of Indian food also plays a crucial role
in attracting MICE from India, she says.
No other destination than Thailand knows this better.
The Thailand Tourist Authority has therefore created
a separate Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau
(TCEB) that caters only to this segment. Vichaya
Soonthornsaratoon, Director (Meetings, Incentive
& Conventions Department), TCEB says that the
Indian MICE outbound segment is growing faster
than the overall outbound market in India.
The business delegates look for newer experiences
and variety of options to choose from. Also, as a global
trend, more and more MICE business is coming
to Asia and we see India as our number one market.
To cater to the new outlook of the India market we
have launched the Thailand Connect Campaign
and are offering India-specific support packages like
Meeting Bonus based on various criteria depending
on group size, profile, etc., she reveals.
A slower economy might have meant fewer

meetings and incentive trips abroad, but Indian
corporates are not in a hurry to write off
international destinations from their agenda.
A few short-haul destinations talk about how
they are ramping up their offerings for the
Indian business traveller.
Vichaya Soonthornsaratoon
Director (Meetings, Incentive &
Conventions Department), TCEB
Hazel Jain
Rajeev Kale
COO (MICE, Domestic & Sports

Holidays), Thomas Cook (India)
Hanneli Slabber
Country Manager,
South African Tourism
38
Lubaina Sheerazi
India Representative, Ministry

of Tourism, Oman
viewpoint
Smart
Meetings
An increased MICE spend is driving
more companies to include MICE
expenditure management as part of
their corporate travel management
policy. Benson Tang, Regional Director,
Asia, Association of Corporate Travel
Executives, tells us more.
arlier, corporate travel was transient and one

would travel for one-on-one business meetings,
trainings, new opportunities, etc. but now its not
the same. An increasing number of corporates
are adding MICE into their travel programme.
As a global association, Association of Corporate
Travel Executives (ACTE) comprises executive-level
members in countries across the globe, pioneering
educational and technological advances that make
business travel productive, cost-effective and easy.
Based on feedback from ACTE members, an emerging
trend is that big data is out and smart data is in.
Smart data may enhance efficiency and allow for better
strategic decisions, support predictive analytics, and
improve travellers engagement. Data access and
analytics are also topics discussed in the recent ACTE
Risk mitigation has

become a priority in the
travel checklist
sessions. To factor in traveller centricity: simpler travel
policies and more emphasis in balanced cost/benefit
scorecard in MICE. To embrace innovation: increasing
usage of So Lo Mo (social, local, mobile), automatic
registration tools, and mobile applications for MICE
on-site. To re-evaluate security: corporates are reaccessing overall risk management. Risk mitigation
has become a priority in the travel checklist.
Benson Tang
Regional Director, Asia
Association of Corporate
Travel Executives
40
We strongly believe associations and international

seminars are very important to understand the
changing global market. These exhibitions and
associations have participation from across the
world, and ACTE sincerely wants the industry
to grow healthier. We are a non-profit organisation and
act just as a mediator to help people network, spread
awareness through education forums and give them
a push beyond regionalised boundaries. This way travel
managers get to learn, conventions create a platform
for frank, open and an unrestricted discussion.
(Views expressed in the article are that of the author)
awards
India Travel Awards - East 2014
Recognising
Excellence in
p Winners of the India Travel Awards with

Maya trophy
East
Indian tourism celebrated the

achievements of those behind the travel
and tourism industry at the maiden
edition of India Travel Awards - East,
held on October 10, 2014 at Novotel,
Kolkata Hotel and Residences. The awards
were graced by Bratya Basu, Tourism
Minister, West Bengal, along with a list
of distinguished personalities who came
together to acknowledge the contributions
of the best in the Travel and Tourism
industry in East India.
p
Best Design & Debut Hotel:
Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences
p
Best MICE Operator:
42
p Staff Members of Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences who

worked on the awards ceremony
Incentives and Conference Planners
awards
Neptune Holidays Pvt Ltd
q
Best
Business
Hotel:
The Peerless Inn,

Kolkata
p
Best MICE Consolidator:
India Travel Awards - East 2014
u
Best
Destination
Management
Company:
Aaryan Leisure & Holidays Pvt Ltd
p
Best Business
Travel Agency:
Discovery Holidays
p
Best Corporate
Incentive Tours
Operator:
Just Holidays Pvt. Ltd.
t
Best Corporate Travel
Agency:
Travels and Rentals
Lufthansa City Center
43
highlights
Luxury now
has a new
VKonect
unding success
After witnessing a reso
t luxury show
on hosting the VKonec
talks about
in Delhi, Punam Singh
come up
what prompted her to
w she has
with the concept and ho
d the leisure
more shows for MICE an
ar.
market lined up next ye
46
highlights
47
highlights
48
VKonect
expert talk
Crib, Crib,
Think
Positive
Crib!
Dont
worry Be
Happy
LJ
O
nce you are done with the rounds of sympathy,

then empathy, then trying to help these
people by giving advice, you just want to run
away and stop listening to these epitomes
of misery.
Even if you try to help them, they have ready reasons
that thwart your suggestions from being useful. No
solution will work for such people and they become
martyrs to their circumstances. On a lighter note, you
can however, admire their conviction, their belief in
the fact that things are really bad.
As you read this, there may be some names that you
can straightaway place in this category, but just take a
moment to check if your own name comes up. Replay
your conversations with that little voice in your head,
the one referred to as the conscience. Conversations
about everything, pros and cons, doubts, fears, hurts,
concerns and see how often are you the one doing
the cribbing?
Everyone has a mental image of what type of a person
they are and much of it is based on the kind of nature
that is projected externally, the image you have chosen
to live up to. But even in keeping up with that image,
deep inside there is a deluge of issues that bring out
50
Have you come across

those people who just
cant stop complaining?
They always have
problems, their luck is
always out and their
burdens are comparable
to the Greek Titan,
Atlas, who carries the
world on his back.
Shabnam Mehra
negative emotions. Do you always want the sympathy,

empathy and helpful suggestions? In that phase, do
you also have the conviction that things are really bad?
Do look at your own fears and feelings of shortcoming
and see how important and consistent they appear
in your secret thoughts. If you keep these thoughts
festering inside you, at least some part of you is
mirroring the same cribber you wanted to run away
from. So acknowledge and accept these thoughts and
provide yourself the same solutions you tried to help
others with. Hopefully you can help yourself and at
least you will have a different outlook when you hear
someone else crib.
Look
on the
Brighter
Side
expert talk
Readers Ask
am leading a team, and dont want to come across as a disciplinarian. How
Q: Idoenvironment?
I make sure that my team has a good balance between fun and serious work
A:
To explore the right balance, you will need to evaluate the present situation. As a leader, who
is guiding this initiative, what are the obstacles or issues coming in the way? Is it something
in your style or are your team members not being able to maintain the balance. Either ways
it may be a good idea to engage in a team discussion, where you share your intent and seek
their inputs to make office a great place. There could be a list of non-negotiable deliverables
so that core objectives are met and everyone is made aware that no slacking off is allowed
on those issues. To bring about a friendlier environment seek suggestions that add to
peoples comfort. You could relax some rules, which give people greater flexibility to operate.
Also, create a system under which gentle reminders can be given to people who are losing
focus, rather than needing to clamp down suddenly and making the situation stressful. Do
remember that while you can intend this drive and communicate as much, a lot depends on
the individuals. So, give people a chance to find balance in the way it keeps them happy. All
the best, its a great thought.
have completed three years in an organisation, but work has become mundane
Q: Inow.
How do I keep myself motivated? Also, the problem is that I am a multifaceted
person in a profession that is single tracked, and I dont know how to keep my other
sides entertained.
A:
In todays fast paced life, three years is definitely a lot of time in the same job and monotony
can seep in very easily. While you may be experiencing additional frustration because by
nature you would like to try multiple things, please consider what has come in the way of
your trying out new things in the scope of your work. Have you discussed opportunities
and options with your senior management or even take on new initiatives which add value
to your organisations output? Hopefully, your contribution would pave the way for doing
something additional and different. Or you could look at new assignments both within and
outside the organisation.
Q&a
But if that is not working out, why not consider exploring opportunities beyond work?
Consider some other activities, it could be learning a new skill, or joining a focus group and
participating in their activities. You may want to study or pick up a sport. There are many
options so you will be able to choose given, your time, interest and financial considerations.
The novelty of your new interest will provide the break you need in your work life and keep
you feeling good.
Send in your questions for advice on your professional life to us and we will get our expert,
Shabnam Mehra, to respond to your queries. You can write in at shabnamsmehra@
yahoo.com or visit her website www.reflectingangles.com
about the author

The author, Shabnam Mehra, is
the Founder of Reflecting Angles.
She specialises in Life Coaching
Skills and is an Emotional Freedom
Technique (EFT) Practitioner. She
conducts various life coaching
sessions for corporate and
individuals.
51
etiquette talk
Shital Kakkar Mehra

Practitioner of Corporate
Etiquette and International
Protocol in India
Women Business
and Workplace
The rules of business etiquette have relaxed over the last couple of decades.
However, the biggest change in this time period has been the number of
women who have entered the workforce, leading to confusion regarding
the rules of gender etiquette. Today, business has become gender-neutral
there are no men and women in the workplace, only professionals.
Top eight rules for practicing gender-neutral business
etiquettes are:
1 Introductions:
Both men and women are

expected to stand for all business introductions.
The rules for making introductions in the corporate
arena are driven by rank and hierarchy and not the
age or the gender of the person. Women on their part
should say their full name (e.g. dont mumble, Hello!
I am Leena from HR) to prevent undermining your
position and status in the organisation.
2 Ms. and Mr.:
Women are introduced or addressed

verbally and in all written communication using
the title Ms.. The titles Mrs. and Miss are no longer
used in the workplace and if a woman prefers to be
addressed as Mrs./Miss, she is expected to inform her
business associates accordingly.
3 Shake hands with everyone:
Today, there
is no masculine (read: extra firm) or feminine
(read: dainty) handshake. Offer a firm handshake and
shake hands with everyone in the group, irrespective
of gender. Also, there is no protocol regarding who
initiates a handshakethe person offering his/her
hand first has an advantage, regardless of gender.
4 Body language:
Both men and women are

expected to step from behind their desk to shake
hands, exchange business cards and offer a seat to
their visitors. Handshake is the only physical contact
between men and women in the workplace. All
professionals are expected to maintain appropriate
eye contact, respect personal space and escort visitors
to the lobby/elevator at the end of a meeting.
52
5 Should women pay?
Of course, in corporate
entertaining, the one who invites pays! Inform
the wait staff in advance that you are the host as they
often assume that the man in the group will settle
the bill!
6 Touch:
Besides handshake, an occasional pat on

the back for a job well done is acceptable. Using
terms of endearment (e.g. Honey, Sweetie, and
Darling), complimenting on looks or attire or cracking
off-color jokes are all considered inappropriate and
are backed by strict sexual harassment laws.
7 Office Etiquette:
Today, women should not

expect men to hold open doors for themthe
person who reaches the door first is expected to
hold it open for the person walking behind him/her,
regardless of gender. Similarly, the person closest
to the elevator door/car door/rotating door, exits
first. Regardless of gender, one is expected to help a
colleague carry heavy files, hail a cab or help with the
luggage in an airplane aisle.
8 Communication:
If you are addressing a

person in an email and are unsure if they are a
man or a woman, simply cut and paste the entire
name. e.g. Dear Shital Kakkar Mehra and not Dear
Sir/Madam.
Luckily, the world of business is increasingly becoming
a level playing field and it has become imperative that
we look beyond a persons gender when conducting
business. India is a traditional society, where gender
plays a huge role in the social fabric but the workplaces
are increasingly becoming gender-neutral.
checklist
Reservations
Check
To ensure tactfully managed hotel

reservations, especially with
a large delegation gearing up for
a corporate event, MICEtalk gives you
a comprehensive checklist of things
to keep in mind while selecting a hotel.
Checklist
Hotel Reservations:
54
Be sure of the specific number of rooms you

require in a hotel. Hold a few as back-up for
an increase in numbers
Ascertain the cut-off date for final hotel

reservation confirmation
Fix a date for a review before blocking the

reservation. You need to be sure by this date
about the number of delegates.
Get a dedicated person as your point of contact

at the hotel responsible for your bookings and for
your queries, if any
Assign one of your team members to be
in-charge of this job. It is essential for the success
of an event.
Be sure to learn about hotel policies for change in

bookings and deposit requirements
Remember to reserve complimentary rooms

(normally possible with large block bookings)
for:
Company staff
Speakers
Event management staff (if you are using an
event management company)
Find out about payment procedures at the hotel:

Does the hotel accept cheques?
Can you use credit cards?
Which credit cards are honoured by them

Do they accept cash, if required?
If you are holding a large conference, even up to

100-150 delegates, you need to find out about
extra hotel staff during peak check-in and checkout times
Front Desk
Bellboys
Valet Parking Attendants
Parking area for large vehicles, if buses or vans
are being used.
Do not forget to ensure support for speciallychallenged guests (Check with hotel regarding
their facilities for specially-challenged people)
Find out about room services so you can decide

what is to be paid for guests and what your
company will absorb
Mini bar
Laundry
Telephone
l Local
l Outstation (domestic and international)
Check about complimentary facilities in VIP

rooms
Bottle of wine or port
Fresh fruit
Cookies
Flowers
Book enough rooms with late check-in and

departure facilities
Review this when you have the final
ticketing done
Conference & Meeting Facilities
Before booking a hotel, checking of meeting rooms

and conference facilities is a must:
Ensure the availability of the venue on dates
required by you and the flexibility in case the
meeting date gets changed.
Check the size of the room to ensure it will be a
comfortable experience for participants.
The meeting room should have a proper view

of the speaker from every angle without any
obstruction.
Natural light in the room, or at least the breakaway room, is always an added advantage.
Check about other events taking place at the

same time if you are not booking the entire space.
If yes, be sure that the partitions are sound proof.
Make sure the location is easily accessible and

well-connected with the required air, rail and
road links.
Keep in mind the profile of delegates attending

the conference and your companys corporate
image during your selection.
The selection of venue should be appropriate for

extra events and excursions that you may plan.
Keep in mind the safety of the place.
Necessary conference requirements:
Small rooms close by for break-away meetings

Basics like
An electronic whiteboard
Projector
Stationery
Wi-Fi internet access
Laptops availability
Laptop connections
Photocopying and fax services
Good ventilation and temperature control
Tea, coffee, refreshments and meals service
Checklist
55
social responsibility
Food for Thought

Brig. Trigunesh Mukherjee, AVSM, Co-founder, Exper Executive Education
Everything we do has an element of

mutuality, the absence or presence of which
decides whether the task will thrive or fail.
Getting My Basics Right
While we were in Mizoram storms were not that

uncommon but one of those which was particularly
severe taught me a life lessonif such a term could
be coined. Two houses in the nearby village were
virtually flattened so my wife and I walked across to
see how we could help. We ran into a flurry of activity
rebuilding the houses and wonder of wonders none
of the inmates of the affected houses were involved.
They had been put up in safer places and were being
looked after fully by others. Young and old from the
villages around were rebuilding. The headman told
us, Dont worry they will have brand new houses
by the day after. True, local material is mainly used
for construction but still the pace was hectic. The
wise old man simply told us, We are doing what we
would always do. This was practical manifestation
of the Mizo code of conduct called Tlawmnagaihna
(easy pronunciation would be thlongmaina). This
code simply put, asks everyone to help and take on
the responsibilities of others who are facing hardship,
irrespective of how much bother one may have to go

through. The saying in Mizoram is, Anyone who does
not follow tlawmnagaihna is not a Mizo.
That experience taught me the fundamental and all
embracing concept of mutuality.
In recent times, thanks to a book by the same name
we have become familiar with an African way of life,
Ubuntu. Essentially meaning, I am because We are,
again illustrating the concept of mutuality.
Yet, we neither spend time thinking about this nor
practise it consciously. Let me take a few examples
which are likely to have been experienced by all of us.
When you talk to me and I listen (but do I?).
Awarding an incentivehas to appear to be an
incentive to the receiver.
Setting up an institution/organisationthe purpose
of the organisation lies outside it (satisfying an
external need).
Solving a problem without understanding
mutuality, leads to needless solutions or wrong
solution or solution for another problem.
Very often businesses/airlines/logistics fail because
adequate attention has not been paid to the others.
Dependence on the unknown cab driver.
Virtually anything we do or experience has an element
of mutuality. Effective leaders, at all levels and from
all fields, intrinsically understand the critical impact
of mutuality. Therefore, they do not shy away from
indicating their dependence while being independent.
Thriving or failing, in almost everything, is related
to the presence or absence of mutuality. Next time
give this a little more conscious thought; good luck
thinking costs nothing.
56
event talk
Celebrating 150 Years of
Winter Tourism
St. Moritz and the Engadin, Switzerland, will be celebrating 150 years
of winter tourism in the winter of 2014-2015. Celebrations will be in full
swing in St. Moritz from December 5-7, 2014. A number of events will be
taking place in the Upper Engadin to showcase its ancient tradition of
winter tourism throughout the winter season.
variety of new infrastructural additions in the

skiing areas, other Hotel & Ski Pass Offers and
a number of fun events on the frozen lake are
some of the other highlights of the season.
A range of ski and snowboard brands will be put to

test at the grand ski and snowboard equipment test
on the Corvatsch during this period. The St. Moritz
City Race, also a part of the special winter season
celebrations, expects to see many locals, guests and
celebrities competing against one another at a ski
cross event along with a cross-country skiing course
running through and through the village.
The special programme at St. Moritz and the Engadin
will run through the entire 2014-2015 winter season,
from December 5 to late April. An anniversary film
and an anniversary magazine will also be circulated,
focusing on the revolutionary force of the founding
fathers. They will also be emphasising on the different
ways in which winter tourism has grown and evolved
in the Engadin.
special offer
Guests who book more than one night at a hotel
offering the Hotel & Ski Pass package will obtain
their ski pass for CHF 35 per person per day.
The offer is valid on all Upper Engadin mountain
railways and cableways and for the entire
duration of the stay in Engadin St. Moritz.
This season will also bring with it the opportunity

for the Engadins hoteliers to once again delight their
guests with unique offers. With offers like the Hotel &
Ski Pass Offer, snow-sport enthusiasts will get to not
just extract the most out of their hotel accommodation,
but will also be able to enjoy a naturally beautiful
setting, up to 350 km of spotlessly set Pistes, 56
mountain railways and cableway, three Snow Parks
and admission to 34 mountain restaurants.
With each event following the next so closely and the
itinerary of any one attending being so action packed,
a dull moment seems unlikely.
57
tech talk
Appetite for Tech

There are a million and half things to do when you are in charge
of turning that nebulous little boardroom idea into a slick conference
or even a mega-incentive trip. We tell you how to turn that pocket
entertainment device called a smartphone/PDA/iPad into a power-assistant!
Hritvick Sen
s a MICE planner, how many times have you

wished for a squad of assistants, three more
sets of arms or even a processor or two added
to the old noggin? (If you have any or all of the
above, please feel free to ignore this article).
Chances are, its just you, a bunch of folders and your
smartphone rushing down the hall in mad abandon.
In that case, there are apps which might just be the
solution to halve or even quarter your work-load. Yes,
put that phone of yours to better use than selfies and
Facebooking (and well tell you how to incorporate
them into your event seamlessly, too).
Eventbrite
Take Eventbrite, for instance. Its a fabulous event

planner, but who says it cant be used for organising
huge group trips? First off, this app lets you create
pages with your event
(or trip, in our case).
You can also invite and
manage attendees, see
their preferences, and
customise accordingly.
And when the trips
done and the dust
settled, you can set
ablaze
Facebook
and Twitter with
Eventbrites
inbuilt
social media tools.
For conferences, this
app is like a chainsaw!
Spread word about
your event throughout
your
contact-list
Done! Keep track of
whos attendingDone! Segregate touchy VIPsDone
Yesterday! You can send them links to register them
online, issue tickets, and get more information about
your attendees.
Bizzabo
Another member of this management efficiency

clan is Bizzabo. It also works on a similar principle.
58
Visualise the event or

meeting, create a page
where you can display
all the information you
want, send invites, and
hey presto! You have
a brilliantly managed
meeting.
You
can
also track your event
attendance, give out
notes or speaker-bios, and track your attendees spread
word about the event. Bizzabo also touts its platformindependence as people can access this from desktop
or mobile, Android or iOS. It assures you of real-time
updation for guests as the event progresses. A piece
of news for bigger organisers: Bizzabo also keeps in
mind sponsor visibility and placement. All in all, a
pretty neat package.
Hootsuite
This, in essence, is a social media gobbler. OK, so the

official explanation is that Hootsuite is a social media
management system for brand management. The
systems user interface takes the form of a dashboard,
and supports social network integrations for Twitter,
Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+, Foursquare, MySpace,
WordPress, TrendSpottr and Mixi. Whew!
It tracks all the
buzz about your
event or tour, how
much of a smash
hit it was, and what
are people saying
about it, all on one
concise dashboard.
Now remember, all
of the above lifesavers are not exactly going to earn your salary for you
(A.I. is still on the way!). But what they most definitely do,
is streamline your work-processes, delegate authority,
make sure you are on top of things and help you
pull off that fabulously organised event, MICE trip
or conference.
And thats a great thing in itself, isnt it?
visa talk
Group Visa Requirements

Spain
Passport with a validity of minimum

three months
Photocopy of all the pages of the passport (even

the blank pages)
Schengen Visa Application Form: If applying

from Delhi, you need three visa application forms
and if applying from Mumbai, submit one visa
application form
The following forms also need to be duly filled,

signed and submitted along with the application:
a) Spain Authorisation Form
b) Declaration Form
Three recent passport size photographs with

matt or semi-matt finish, 60-80 per cent face
coverage, white background and without border
(Size: 35mm x 45mm)
Cover letter from the individual on the

companys letterhead with the companys
registration copy
Cover letter from the Sponsor Company stating

the employees joining date and salary details
Original company and personal bank statement

for the last six months with a bank seal
and signature
Company and personal Income Tax Returns

for the last three years
Salary slips for the last three months along with

NOC from company
Companys Memorandum of Article
Ticket itinerary
Hotel booking confirmation on its letterhead
A copy of the Pan Card and Credit Card

is required
Original Medical Insurance for the stay duration

amounting to 30,000 Euros. Separate travel
insurance for each passenger, including children.
The validity of the travel insurance must be at
least 15 days longer than the period of stay and
must cover the whole Schengen territory.
Oman
Passport with scanned copies of the first/last/

observation pages
Confirmed air ticket
Confirmed hotel booking (visa will be

procured through immigration authority
by the travel agent who is arranging
the hotel booking)
For more information, contact Udaan India at websupport@udaanindia.com
60
Hotels high on MICE
Carlson Rezidor Hotel

Group appoints Vice PresidentCommercial Operations,
Asia Pacific
Sandy Russell has joined Carlson Rezidor
Hotel Group as Vice President, Commercial

Operations, Asia Pacific. She comes with
21 years of experience in hospitality, of which
14 years were with Carlson Rezidor in sales
and marketing roles including Senior Director
of Revenue Generation, Director of Global Key
Accounts as well as Regional Director
of Sales and Marketing.
The Lemon
Tree Hotel
Company
appoints HeadCorporate Accounts

Rahool Macarius
has been appointed
as Head-Corporate
Accounts, at The Lemon
Tree Hotel Company.
Starting his career as
Management Trainee with IHG Hotels and going on
to head the sales and marketing function of Holiday
Inn Resort, Goa, he now has 15 years of experience
in the hospitality industry. He has also worked with
ITC Fortune Park Hotels as Regional Sales ManagerWestern India.
Grand
Mercure
Bangalore
Novotel Chennai
SIPCOT welcomes
welcomes General
Manager
Gaurav Shiva has
Manager of the Novotel Chennai SIPCOT.

Shoeb has an experience of 25 years
in the hospitality industry. He has
worked with brands like Starwood, ITC
WelcomGroup, Four Points by Sheraton and
Intercontinental among others. He joined
the Accor family in 2010 to launch the
Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach.
been appointed as the

General Manager for Grand
Mercure, Bangalore. Shiva
has over 17 years
of experience in the hotel
industry and has been
associated with a wide gamut of departments within
the hospitality space. He has been associated with the
pre-opening of the Grand Mercure hotels in Goa and
Bengaluru. He has worked in hotels in Europe, America
and Asia.
Novotel Kolkata Hotel

and Residences appoints
ibis Chennai
SIPCOT
Hotel and Residences (NKHR), as General

Manager. Kishan is a well-rounded hotelier
with more than 17 years of work experience
in the hospitality industry spanning
India, Switzerland, Taiwan, Singapore and
Australia. Prior to this, he was the General
Manager-Operations at Novotel Hyderabad
Convention Centre and Hyderabad
International Convention Centre. He has also
worked in some of the most renowned hotels
across the world including Hilton Taipei.
has been appointed the

General Manager for ibis
Chennai SIPCOT. Earlier,
he was the GM of The
Raintree Hotel, St Marys.
He has worked in the
hospitality industry across India, the Middle East and
Maldives. Previously he has worked with Radisson
Chennai, The Leela Mumbai and Grand Hyatt Mumbai.
General Manager
Mohammed Shoeb is the General
General Manager
Jai Kishan has joined Novotel Kolkata
appoints General
Manager
Rajesh
Gopalakrishnan
61
events
15-18
Jan
Salon Idees
Vacances
To be announced
Charleroi, Belgium
2015
16-18
22-25
India International Emitt Istanbul

Travel Mart
To be announced
Istanbul, Turkey
Cochin
event calendar
To be announced
Kochi, India
Jan30-Feb1
Dresden Travel
Market
Messe Dresden
Dresden, Germany
62
04-06
16-18
India International
Travel & Tourism
Exhibition
MMRDA Exhibition Center
Mumbai, India
Jan28-Feb1
Fitur
Feb
To be announced
Comunidad De Madrid,
Spain
2015
03-04
02-12
Satte Mumbai
West
Travel World Expo

Kuwait International Fair
Ground
Kuwait City, Kuwait
06-07
Business Travel
And MICE
Erfurt Travel
Fair
Bombay Convention &

Exhibition Centre (BCEC)
Mumbai, India
Thuringenhalle Erfurt
Erfurt, Germany
To be announced
Mumbai, India
10-12
Outbound Travel
Mart-New Delhi
To be announced
Noida, India
10-12
Travel & Tourism
Fair-Delhi
Expo Centre Noida
Noida, India
06-08
March
2015
Guangzhou
International
Travel Fair
China Import & Export
Fair Pazhou Complex
Guangzhou, China
09-15
12-14
Feria Internacional
De Turismo Bolivia
India International
Travel Exhibition
Raipur
Los Tajibos Hotel &

Convention Center
Santa Cruz (de la
Sierra), Bolivia
To be announced
Raipur, India
Postal Reg. No. :DL(ND)-11/6150/2014-15-16

WPP No.:U(C)-305/2014-2016, Posting on 29th-30th of Advance Month
PSO, Market Road PO, New Delhi-110001, Date of Publication:22/10/2014
RNI No.:DELENG/2010/34144

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Volume V Issue 11 November 2014 64 pages

Publisher & Editor

2014 continues to look bright for the inbound MICE market

Oman, a beautiful and very clean country, is fast growing into a

appearing in MICEtalk cannot be reproduced in

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Similarly, opinions/views expressed by any party in

MICEtalk is printed, published, edited and owned

DDP Publications Private Limited

MICEtalk November 2014

IFEMA Feria de Madrid

Anna Singh, Assistant MD, ATPI India

Hyderabad bullish on MICE

MICEtalk November 2014

HE Helal Almarri, Director General

Rishi Khandelwal, Director, Wish

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

Food for Thought

Benson Tang, Regional Director, Asia,

Appetite for Tech

India Travel Awards East

Highlights from Vkonect

Crib, Crib, Crib!

Women, Business and Workplace

Association (GBTA) and VDR,

Abu Dhabi Tourism

IBTM Africa partners with MICE Academy

MICEtalk November 2014

GBTA, on its fifth anniversary,

25 years for San Diego Convention Center

Unity all the way

organisations that represent Prague in the field of tourism

to its On the Go app, ensuring that business

MICEtalk November 2014

research, exhibitors at The

ICCA 2014 Congress attracts

MICEtalk November 2014

New convention centre opens

Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort

survey by air transport

MICEtalk November 2014

of the leading global hubs for

MICEtalk November 2014

Mart, organised by the Ministry of

ccording to the ITB World Travel Trend

The report maybe futuristic and things may or may

MICEtalk November 2014

of development. On the contrary, Usman E Gani,

where we stand today, Sanjay Khanna, Deputy

Sanjay Gurav, Assistant

even people need to be trained; we need better tour

Reinstating that fact, Geetha

Measures to promote Brand India

I feel things may improve because of our current

presence felt outside. Look at things from a more

MICEtalk November 2014

this we must promote Brand India and make it more

With all eyes turning to India, why do our corporates

if budgets allow preference is given to destinations

and Nicobar vs Bangkok or Pattaya; solely due to the

How do Associations add to the industry?