Tag Archives: influencers

Goa’s tourism sector performing better than national average: Minister

Goa’s tourism sector is performing better than the national average, Minister Rohan Khaunte said on Monday, and underlined the State government’s efforts in sensitising visitors about local culture and traditions.

The Tourism Minister addressed a conclave of tourism stakeholders in Goa.

“Goa is performing better than the national average. Goa has great resilience and adaptability in the competitive tourism and the landscape,” he told reporters while dismissing reports on the decline in tourist footfalls in Goa.

Khaunte said tourist destinations throw up unique challenges, pointing to issues raised by certain social media influencers.
“We have summed up all the issues for raising them in the Goa Tourism Board meeting chaired by the CM. After the meeting, the chief secretary will prepare an action plan,” he added.

He said the government is aware of the friction between local people and tourists due to overcrowding at Baga and Calangute beaches.
“There are issues related to waste management, public transport, and cleanliness of beaches,” he said.

The Tourism Minister referred to reports about disregarding local culture and rules in certain areas visited by budget travellers.
“There are some complaints regarding taxis but we would like to highlight that traditionally the taxi fellows have been our ambassadors in attracting long-term tourists who visit every year,” he said.

Khaunte said the government is making efforts to educate visitors about respecting local culture, tradition and boundaries.
“As a State, we have our own restrictions for open-air policy. We can’t be compared with Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam in the number of tourist footfalls, and tourism from a different perspective. We don’t want to be Thailand,” he added. (Source: PTI)

Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection organises virtual walk-through at Inorbit Mumbai

Over the weekend at Inorbit Mall, Malad, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection concluded the one-of-its-kind virtual walk-through event highlighting the iconic Al Habtoor Palace Dubai and V Hotel Dubai Curio Collection by Hilton.
This innovative activation provided attendees with an immersive visual experience, underscoring the unmatched luxury and magnificence of Dubai’s most prestigious hotels.

The event engaged the visitors with a virtual treat through the opulent interiors and intriguing amenities that Al Habtoor Palace Dubai and V Hotel Dubai Curio Collection by Hilton offer. Esteemed influencers from Mumbai, Roop Verma and Karishma Rawat, were present to capture and share their excitement ahead of their familiarisation trip to the grand hotels.

As part of the activation event, Roop and Karishma have bagged an exclusive opportunity of an all-inclusive luxurious three/four-night stay at Al Habtoor Palace Dubai and V Hotel Dubai Curio Collection by Hilton, complete with tickets to the spectacular La Perle Dubai show. The familiarisation trip will include airport transfers, full-board meals, and access to all amenities at the hotels, ensuring a truly memorable experience for Roop and their assisting guests.
Capturing the entrepreneurial spirit and energy of the city, The V Hotel Dubai Curio Collection by Hilton was born to be the headquarters for those who like to inject fun into their travel. Unexpected and creatively designed with a retro-futurism concept, the hotel is known to spark imaginations, inspire brilliant minds and empower the savvy. V Hotel Dubai Curio Collection by Hilton is part of Curio Collection by Hilton – a global collection of five-star hotels that surprise and delight world travellers with unique, interesting and rare experiences.

Soufiane ElAllam, Complex Commercial Director, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, said, “We are delighted to have hosted this unique virtual walk-through event at Infinity Mall, Malad, offering the existing and prospective guests a glimpse of the exceptional hospitality and experiences awaiting international travellers from Mumbai and beyond. As we approach the summer holiday season, Al Habtoor Palace Dubai and V Hotel Dubai Curio Collection by Hilton stand as the ideal venues for travellers who seek bespoke luxury and unforgettable memories for their wedding, honeymoon, families, etc.”

 

South African Tourism records 43% growth in Indian arrivals for 2023; Delhi remains second largest source market

Determined to build over the strong travel momentum witnessed in the previous year, South African Tourism wrapped up the second chapter of its 20th Annual India Roadshow at Shangri-La Delhi. Kickstarted on 12th February in Jaipur along with a panel discussion on 11th February, the trade schedule will now move forward to Ahmedabad on 14th February, Bengaluru on 15th February and conclude in Mumbai on February 16th.

India is currently one of the fastest growing outbound travel markets for SAT, outpacing Asia and may countries around the world. The country is amongst the top-3 focus markets for South African Tourism and holds immense potential in the years to come. The 20th multi-city schedule achieves a vital milestone for South African Tourism, marking more than two decades of its growing investments in India.

Led by Neliswa Nkani – Hub Head – Middle East, India and Southeast Asia, South African Tourism the event welcomed more than 550 travel trade partners in Delhi and shared critical local market insights enabling them to capitalise on growing demand. In addition, the tourism board partnered with the hotel to offer authentic South African cuisine and a glimpse of its culture to the guests.

Strengthening the relationship between Rainbow Nation’s indigenous businesses and Indian buyers, the roadshow hosted 42 prominent trade exhibitors from South Africa. The congregation allowed Indian trade partners to evaluate their inventory and identify potential future collaborations. It is worth noting, amongst the local businesses were 14 SMMEs who along with their counterparts presented a portfolio comprising of 40% new products showcasing diversified and affordable offerings. Such events present businesses from both the nations a platform to engage and establish mutually beneficial partnerships.

Commenting on the occasion, Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head – Middle East, India and South East Asia, South African Tourism, said, “The 20th Annual India Roadshow marks more than two decades of South African Tourism’s commitment to the Indian market. 2023 emerged as another successful year for us and we witnessed 43% increase in travellers from India compared to its previous year. This achievement would not have been possible without relentless efforts from our Indian trade partners and the affection showered upon the Rainbow Nation by India travellers; we are truly grateful.”

She continues “Post resumption of travel activities we have seen India’s outbound tourism market bounce back much stronger compared to rest of the world. Given the immense potential that lies in the Indian market, it continues to remain amongst our top three focus market for 2024 and holds a position of strategic importance. We hope to keep this momentum going and welcome “more & more” Indian travellers to the Rainbow Nation.”

Delhi is currently the second largest market for South African Tourism in India and contributes profoundly to leisure, business, and MICE segments. In 2023, South Africa witnessed an increase of 43% in overall inbound travellers from India. Interestingly, 36% of Delhiites travelled to the Rainbow Nation for business purposes while 72% of travellers from Delhi spent most on shopping when in-destination. The tourism board will continue with its efforts to improve accessibility and encourage dialogues aimed at establishing direct routes to boost tourism and trade between the two nations.

Promoting the destination through the eyes of Indian influencers and entice consumers to explore new provinces, South African Tourism is currently running its flagship “More & More” brand campaign across target cities. The tourism board is also set to host its renown Corporate Think Tank in the coming months to engage with Indian corporates and address their business and MICE travel needs. At present, several stop-over flights fly from India to South Africa, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways and Air Seychelles.

Auxilia Networks appoints Sylvia Fernandes as Head of PR & Trade Engagement

Auxilia Networks has appointed Sylvia Fernandes as Head of PR & Trade Engagement, based in Mumbai.

With over 20 years of experience in the travel trade, working with international Tourism Boards as well as Events and Media organisations, Sylvia has an enviable track record of trade and media activities including famils, coordinating co-op partnership campaigns and other key promotional and marketing work. She has an impressive network of trade contacts in the travel, hospitality and exhibition spheres across all of India as well as in Europe and south-east Asia. Fernandes also maintains strong relationships with key media influencers including bloggers, vloggers and consumer & trade media houses, PR agencies, and has many years of experience of working with these personalities for media promotions and coverage for her clients.

She will manage Auxilia’s operations, PR/media engagement and marketing activities from her Mumbai base.

Commenting on this development, Paramjit Bawa, Founder & Principal, Auxilia Networks, said, “We’re thrilled to get Sylvia on board to give our operations a huge boost, not just in west India but all across the country, as well as with managing the needs of our international clients. Having worked with Sylvia previously at VisitBritain, I know well her capabilities and skills. She will be a great asset to the team as we grow the business.”

‘The Indian market has successfully reached the targeted spending amount of JPY 200,000’

Japan is keen to entice the Indian traveller with its varied landscape, geographical spread, food & beverage offerings, and natural wonders. Bunno Ryo, Executive Director, Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Delhi Office, spoke to TravelBiz Monitor about their inbound numbers from India, potential source markets for 2024, and multi-faceted marketing strategies to reach the desired visitor target.

1. What are the India statistics for JNTO until September 2023 as compared to the target numbers listed for the year?

The Indian market holds immense potential and significance for Japan’s tourism industry. Over the past years, we have witnessed a growing interest from Indian travellers in exploring the unique cultural, historical, and natural wonders that Japan has to offer. In 2019, we saw over 1,75,000 Indian visitors. To meet the 2019 milestone is our objective for 2023. So far, from January to June 2023, we have witnessed close to 79,500 visitors to Japan from India.

As we continue to strengthen our ties with the Indian travel industry and tailor our initiatives to the preferences and needs of Indian tourists, we remain optimistic about the bright future of Japan’s tourism market in India.

2. As per the 2023-2025 tourism plan, Japan is looking to boost per-person spending to USD 1,500 (JPY 200,000) through aggressive marketing efforts, kindly elaborate on the strategies being planned or implemented?

We are delighted to announce that the Indian market has successfully reached the targeted spending amount of JPY 200,000. This achievement stands as compelling evidence that visiting Japan holds undeniable value for Indian consumers, known for their discerning emphasis on value for money. To further bolster our aim of achieving a per-person spending target of USD 1,500 (JPY 200,000), our current marketing strategies are strategically tailored to resonate with the discerning Indian travellers. This includes leveraging digital platforms for targeted advertising, collaborating with prominent Indian travel agencies, promoting exclusive cultural experiences, and introducing tailored travel packages that highlight Japan’s unique offerings. Additionally, we are exploring strategic collaborations with popular Indian influencers and implementing personalised promotional campaigns to enhance the overall tourist experience and encourage higher spending. To achieve the target of increasing per-person spending, we have adopted a multi-faceted approach that includes a mix of strategic marketing efforts including, but not limited to Online, Offline channels, SNS and various collaborations, etc.

Collaborating with travel agents and tour operators is an essential part of our strategy. We work closely with our partners to create enticing travel packages to encourage Indian tourists to explore Japan more extensively across segments like leisure and MICE.

The goal to increase per-person spending is not just about driving revenue but also about providing a richer and more fulfilling experience for our visitors. We remain committed to making Japan a compelling destination that offers exceptional value for Indian tourists.

3. The tourism plan also focuses on promoting destinations beyond Tokyo, kindly elaborate and what sets these destinations apart?

Japan is a country known for its remarkable combination of land size and geographical diversity. Japan’s land stretches 3000km from North to South, featuring a climate ranging from the cold zone to the subtropical zone. You can witness the enchanting cherry blossoms as early as January or February in Okinawa and as late as May in Hokkaido. Remarkably, approximately 70% of Japan covered by forestland, making it a remarkably green and environmentally conscious country. Moreover, Japan’s cultural diversity encompasses not only traditional Japanese culture but also the Ainu culture in Hokkaido and the Ryukyu culture in Okinawa.

Japan’s natural beauty extends far beyond Tokyo. The country is blessed with diverse landscapes, from the stunning cherry blossoms of Hirosaki Park in Aomori to the breathtaking landscapes of Hokkaido and the picturesque beaches of Okinawa. Promoting these destinations allows us to showcase the full spectrum of Japan’s natural wonders.

Additionally, the food culture in Japan is incredibly diverse, and travellers can savour regional dishes that are distinct to the area they visit. Whether it is the fresh seafood of Hokkaido, the street food of Osaka, or the kaiseki cuisine of Kyoto, regional food experiences are a significant draw for tourists.

Japan’s regions are filled with historical significance. For example, Hiroshima, with its Peace Memorial Park, is a place of historical reflection, while Nara boasts the stunning Todai-ji temple and the iconic Great Buddha. Travellers with an interest in history find these destinations incredibly compelling.

While Tokyo remains a popular destination, some travellers seek to escape the crowds and experience a more relaxed, authentic side of Japan. Destinations beyond Tokyo offer just that. Visitors can explore historic streets and beautiful landscapes without the hustle and bustle often associated with major cities.

Promoting destinations beyond Tokyo is not only about showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of these regions but also about ensuring that travellers have a more well-rounded and enriching experience during their visit to Japan. We are committed to highlighting the distinctiveness of each region, and our marketing strategies focus on telling the stories and offering compelling reasons to explore the less-visited gems.

4. What are Japan’s top-performing markets as of 2023 and the emerging potential markets for 2024?

As of 2023, Japan continues to welcome travellers from a host of countries. Some of the top-performing markets that have contributed significantly to our tourism industry include China, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, United States of America, Australia, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore and UK.

Regarding emerging potential markets for 2024, we are actively exploring and investing in various regions that show promise in terms of tourism growth like India, Middle East, and Nordics among others. These markets hold significant potential, and it is essential for JNTO to continue our marketing efforts and foster strong partnerships to capitalize on this potential.

Our strategy for 2024 and beyond will include tailored marketing campaigns and initiatives to further tap into these emerging markets. We understand the importance of building strong relationships and we work very closely with travel partners, airlines, and local stakeholders to promote Japan as a preferred travel destination for these potential visitors.

5. Indian travellers today are looking for unique experiences, how does Japan fit in and cater to Indian travellers?

Japan has always been a treasure trove of unique and enriching experiences. We understand that Indian travellers today are looking for more than just the conventional tourist destinations; they seek immersive, authentic, and one-of-a-kind experiences and Japan caters to these requirements.

Japan is known for its rich and diverse culture. Indian travellers can participate in traditional tea ceremonies, witness mesmerizing geisha performances in Kyoto, explore ancient temples and shrines, and even stay in a ryokan (traditional inn) for an authentic cultural experience.

Japanese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its exquisite flavours and presentation. Indian travellers can savour regional dishes unique to different parts of Japan, from the famous sushi of Tokyo to the kaiseki cuisine of Kyoto. Japanese street food is also a hit among travellers looking for quick and delicious bites. And to bring Indians closer to home, Japan has over 2,100 Indian restaurants spread across the country serving authentic and delicious Indian delicacies.

Travellers can soak in hot springs or onsens in places like Hakone, enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring, and marvel at the vibrant autumn foliage. For fans of Japanese pop culture, Japan is a paradise. From visiting anime and manga cafes in Akihabara to experiencing themed cafes and visiting the bustling entertainment districts, there’s a lot to explore for enthusiasts. Adventurous Indian travellers can enjoy activities such as hiking in the Japanese Alps, skiing in Hokkaido, or scuba diving in Okinawa.

Japan is an incredible shopper’s paradise, offering something for every shopper, with Yodobashi Camera and BIC Camera catering to tech enthusiasts, while Don Quijote and DAISO – 100 YEN cater to budget-conscious consumers. The iconic Uniqlo and upscale shopping in Ginza, Tokyo, further enrich the diverse shopping experience, making Japan a shopaholic’s dream.

Japan is known for its safety and the warm hospitality of its people. Indian travellers can explore the country with a sense of security and be welcomed with open arms. We understand the evolving preferences of Indian travellers and continue to adapt our offerings to meet their desires for authenticity and uniqueness.

 

Goa signs MoU with Temple Connect to position the state as spiritual destination

Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, has announced the plan to establish the state as a premier spiritual destination by highlighting various efforts made by the Department of Tourism wherein visitors from all over the world could seek spiritual experiences across Goa. He made this announcement at the 11th Empowered Committee Meeting in the presence of Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism Goa, Girish Kulkarni, Founder of Temple Connect and the members of the empowered committee.

Khaunte stated, “Today the 11th Committee Meeting took place with a main focus on Marketing and Public Relations to ensure that people who visit can see the spiritual side of Goa along with wellness activities. Direct flights from Mopa Airport for locations such as Uttarakhand, Dehradun, Nagpur, and Guwahati will bridge the travel divide between Uttarkashi and Dakshin Kashi, to enhance tourism and connectivity and will attract more tourists in Goa.”

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between Government of Goa and Temple Connect, a prominent organization dedicated to promoting Spiritual Tourism.

In celebration of the upcoming Shiv Jayanti festival, plans were revealed to organise the festival in six cities across the state. This festival will showcase the rich cultural heritage of Goa and attract visitors from near and far.

Furthermore, Khaunte announced a conclave in October that will serve as a platform for engaging with influencers and stakeholders in the tourism industry. This conclave aims to build meaningful connections and foster collaboration to develop spiritual circuits, including yoga, wellness, and other spiritual experiences.

The involvement of Youth, Yuva Tourism Clubs, and students in promoting and preserving Goa’s spiritual identity was highlighted. He emphasised the significance of engaging the younger generation in maintaining the authenticity and sanctity of the state’s temples and spiritual sites.

In a bid to also promote Sports Tourism, Khaunte mentioned the possibility of hosting commercial sponsorship for Ironman 70.3 based on the great response received. Through this, the government aims to boost sports tourism and attract athletes and sports enthusiasts from around the world to participate and witness these events.

Girish Kulkarni, Founder of Temple Connect, stated “Digitising content about temples and organizing events can help in documenting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of these sacred places. It also opens up new opportunities to showcase smart temple management practices and create awareness about the importance of temple conservation. By promoting exposure to important temples and historic sites, we can encourage tourism and contribute to the development of infrastructure and ecosystem in Goa. Additionally, increasing engagement through various activities can attract more visitors, thus boosting footfall to Goa.”