Mega plan for Navi Mumbai airport connectivity- Business Standard, India

The Maharashtra [ Images ] government has prepared a comprehensive project, costing Rs 86,647 crore (Rs 866.47 billion), for efficient connectivity between the proposed Navi Mumbai [ Images ] international airport and Mumbai.

The plan includes construction of metro rail and mono rail lines, rail overbridges, extension of existing railway lines and flyovers.

Apart from government agencies, Union and state, the government expects the private sector to also be involved in implementation.

As much as 44 per cent of the proposed investment is expected to come from the private sector.

The airport's first phase is scheduled for launch by 2015.

The City and Industrial Development Corporation would issue the first stage of bids for the airport in September.

Tanaji Satre, joint MD of Cidco, told Business Standard: "The sole objective is to put in place effective connectivity through multiple agencies.

The government is keen to encourage public-private partnership to carry out these projects."

He said some of the associated projects are already under implementation, such as the Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar metro and a mono rail between Jacob Circle & Chembur.

The plan comes in the wake of a study by LEA Associates, commissioned to study the regional transport network.

It estimated 80,000 passengers would travel to or from  the airport daily  by 2031.

In addition, at least 100,000 others would travel to the airport and its vicinity for work.

It predicted 85 per cent of passengers would go in cars or taxis and the est by bus or a mass transit system by 2021.

By 2031, the number of passengers using taxis or cars would be 55 per cent and the rest though buses or mass transit.

The study lists several ways to enhance connectivity to the airport.

This includes bus services from key junctions, a rail line between CST and Mankhurd, a Mankhurd-Panvel metro line and a trans-harbour Sewri-Nhava Sheva sea link, with bus services and a metro.

"We are laying stress on augmenting the railway harbour line, metro connectivity and improving the road network," said T C Benjamin, principal secretary, urban development.

A new 40-km Andheri-Mankhurd metro line to link the existing Mumbai airport to Navi Mumbai airport has also been recommended in the study.

However, state officials are learnt to have expressed reservations on this plan, as the Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar metro is being built.

The plan is being revised to connect Ghatkopar-Mankhurd, a government official said.

Rahul Asthana, metropolitan commissioner, overseeing the metro and trans-harbour sea link project, said the Ghatkopar-Mankhurd metro was being discussed.

"We have appointed a consultant to do a feasibility report for the trans-harbour sea link project. We are provisioning for a metro along with the sealink.

"The estimated project cost is Rs 10,000 crore (Rs 100 billion). We hope the work will begin in the third quarter of 2012 and finish in five years," he said.

Ansgar Sickert, managing director of Fraport India [ Images ], said rapid and easy access was critical for the Navi Mumbai airport but there was no clarity on how the connectivity would be enhanced.

"Who will guarantee whether the metro and road projects will be completed on time? Will there be penalties if these works do not meet the deadline?" he asked.

Transport consultant Beena Balakrishan said the government needed to focus on developing a multi-modal transport interchange like the one in Kuala Lumpur which provides train and bus access to the airport from a central station.

"Passengers can even check in their bags at the station," she said.




Crosswoods holidays 2011

F1 may turbo-charge tourism- Ruchika Chitravanshi(Business standard)

The tourism industry expects the inaugural Indian Formula One (F1) Grand Prix would bring the world to New Delhi this October. It hopes the event would be able to do what the Commonwealth Games, the last major sports event in India, could not in terms of attracting tourists.
But with just two months to go before the three-day event opens on October 28 in the Delhi satellite town of Noida, many complain it has not been promoted widely, neither by the organisers nor by the tourism ministry, as was the case with the Commonwealth Games.

“We are expecting predominant demand to come from within India since things got finalised late. The event has not been promoted well. But F1 will see the usual enthusiasts coming from the West Asia, UK and Europe,” said Arjun Sharma, managing director of Le Passage to India, a premier travel group headquartered in New Delhi.
“F1 is bound to generate a lot of international interest, but it depends on how it is marketed. Otherwise, our expectations may not be met,” said Vijay Thakur, president of the Indian Association of Tour Operators.
Some tour operators are yet to market their packages aggressively. “There is an apprehension that the event might get postponed, so we will devise our strategy when there is more clarity on the issue,” said Subhash Goyal, chairman of Stic Travel Group.
Tickets for the October 30 race at the 120,000-capacity Buddh International Circuit went on sale last Saturday, with prices ranging from Rs 2,500 to Rs 35,000. This is one of the reasons that the profile of travellers expected to come for the event is in the premium category.
“We believe the inaugural F1 in India will generate a lot of interest not only amongst Indian F1 enthusiasts but also tourists coming from overseas. We have got a lot of enquires from tourists who have booked their tickets on their own and wanting to visit places like Agra and Jaipur,” said Karan Anand, head — relationships, Cox and Kings.
With hotels in the NCR getting filled in advance, the cost of packages is also expected to go up. Hilton and Double Tree, Hilton Worldwide’s two hotels in the vicinity of the F1 venue, have almost full bookings for the F1 weekend. “We are witnessing a significant increase in demand through this period even at other hotels in New Delhi,” a company spokesperson said.
India received 486,000 foreign tourists in October 2010, six per cent more than a year ago. With the tourist season starting from October, the travel industry is hoping for further buzz around the Grand Prix so that tourist numbers go up significantly.


Crosswoods holidays 2011

Kerala Tourism - Explore God's Own Country

Indian country is blessed by the several amazing tourism destinations like Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, etc but none of them can be compared with South Indian state Kerala because its untouched natural beauty. Due to its serene environment and natural beauty the state is also renowned as the God’s own Country around the world. National Geographic Travelers, a famous traveling magazine of United Kingdom includes Kerala in ten paradises on earth for its unmatched natural beauty and wonderful tourism destinations.

The state is worldwide accepted for its admirable beaches, backwater destinations, flourishing green surroundings, wildlife destinations, hill stations, tea gardens and spice plantations. Apart form these attractions the state is also a very popular destination in India for Ayurvedic treatment and oil massage therapies.

Numerous world class Ayurvedic therapy centers are located in this state. These centers have experienced and trained professional and use important medicinal herbs for their treatments. These treatments can cure people form lost of serious disease and rejuvenate them form their tired daily life routine.

Beaches are the most popular attraction of Kerala. The state is known as the home of some famous beaches around the world. Kovalam is regarded as one of the finest beaches across the world located in this state in Trivandrum district. It is made up of three crescent shape beaches and there are several medium to luxury resorts are also present in surroundings for the comfort of tourists. Some interesting places are also present in and around Kovalam beach like Travancore Heritage, Kovalam Tourist Village and Guruprakash Ayurvedic Centre. Some other popular beaches of Kerala are Varkala, Alappuzha, Cherai, Fort Kochi, etc.

Backwaters of Kerala are also worth visit attraction for travelers. Alleppey and Kumarakom are the two most popular backwater destinations of this state. There are numerous luxury backwater resorts are present at these destinations. Here tourist can enjoy the romantic houseboat journey over tranquil backwaters of Kerala. This boat cruise promises to offer an unforgettable experience to the travelers.

Except beaches and backwaters, several hill towns and wildlife destinations are also praiseworthy attractions of Kerala tourism. There are numerous beautiful hill towns located in this state; Munnar is the most popular in all of them. It is also regarded as the best hill station of south India. Scenic hill peaks, lush green surroundings and tea gardens are the major attractions of this hill stations. With all these attractions Munnar is emerging as a favorite destination in Kerala honeymoon travel.

These are the some popular attractions of Kerala Tour Packages. Apart from these, travelers can also visit some exciting wildlife destinations like Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Eravikulam National Park on their trip of Kerala. So plan a trip of Kerala and enjoy this vacation at God’s own Country with your beloved one.


Crosswoods holidays 2011

Policy push for cruise liners- KARAN CHOUDHURY (TelegraphIndia)

New Delhi, Aug. 14: The government is working on strategies to promote cruise tourism.

The tourism ministry has lined up several schemes for infrastructure development including a permanent terminal for liners at five ports — Mumbai, Goa, Chennai, Mangalore and Kochi.

“Cruise liners are great crowd pullers world over. We just have to promote this form of tourism and develop infrastructure for the industry. Cruise tourism will also be part of our Incredible India campaign. A standalone terminal just for cruise liners will make things easier not only for luxury liners but also its passengers. The ministry of shipping is also involved and plans are being formulated to develop the terminal,” said a senior official of the tourism ministry.

“We are providing assistance for products and infrastructure development for destinations and circuits and help for large revenue generating projects,” added the official.

In June 2008, the government approved the Cruise Shipping Policy, which includes development of facilities at ports and connectivity through rail, road and air. It is also taking efforts to ensure speedy completion of immigration formalities and hassle-free custom clearance.

An inter-ministerial steering committee with the shipping secretary as the chairman was set up in June 2010.

“On the promotion side, we are participating in cruise liner conventions, taking advice from major players in the industry and working on marketing strategies so that it attracts tourists and yields revenues,” the official said.

With demand for cruise tourism on the rise, private operators will increase services to Maldives and Lakshadweep from Kochi.

Various spots in and around Goa and Chennai are being identified and new routes and destinations are being mapped. Several operators are also planning to purchase luxury liners.

Crosswoods holidays 2011

Kerala Tourism Having Wide Variety of Attractions- Shahid

Kerala not just a place of mountain resorts with amazing beaches, back waters, full of fun, but a place that has much more to it, as houseboats, beautiful temples andnational parks. A place that is a major tourist destinationfor people from abroad and India is a must for anyone who really wants to see the natural beauty. A place where nature comes to play Kerala, is also called “God's country, " the. What is true enough in view of thebeautiful landscape and heritage diversity it offers?

It is truly said that the beauty of this place can not be expressed in a few words. People come here not only for memorable family trips, but for their romantic honeymoon or even a fun trip with friends. This place is having all the features that a tourist calls for. The versatility of this place is also due to geographical conditions. A holiday in Kerala for newly married couple gives them many options to choose from, most preferred are the Tour of Kerala Houseboats. Experience to be enjoyed, the view of the beautiful backwatersand comfort really makes it a popular choice.

Admired among the backwater destinations, Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi happens to be the most well-likedattraction in India. Backwater cruise is a very pleasant experience, especially because the houseboat offers all the comforts, such as A/C service. Dock distance is the ultimate experience, is enchanting sight. Read the coconut villages, forts, temples, representing a heritage resort set back, and even places to Ayurveda, all together are a rare treat for the eyes, look for the beauty of nature. Views sunrise and sunset is something you can keep the houseboat good people.

Now coming to the beaches, the beaches here are very beautiful. Another tourist favorite is also a white-sand beach, which are very attractive to the eyes.

Beach sports are always fun, and appreciated by all.

The beaches are a place that meets the person suddenly a huge thrill, endless views of the water, sand, without any fuss, the quiet, everything is absolutely perfect.

Another attraction for some may be of clinical Ayurvedic treatments of Kerala that really turned off. Some things are an unforgettable experience, a massage or spa that is truly natural and rejuvenates the heart, especially in a place that is so natural.

A tourist can also enjoy the cuisine of this unique land with such exotic flavors as the place there is never a chance that you get more with it. With many options for vegetarians and non vegetarians, this place has the most delicious seafood to offer its guests. Other attractions are the mountains, plantations, etc.

It is easy to visit the place, courtesy for many tour operators available.

Author is an eminent analyst and writer in Kerala Tourism Services Related Articles. He has authored many books on tour guide for Kerala Tourism and Resorts in Munnar

Crosswoods holidays 2011

2nd International Travel Mart from Oct 21-23- TOI

PANAJI: 'Refresh Goa!' is the theme of the second three-day Goa International Travel Mart (GITM), scheduled from October 21-23.

Dubbed as "the state's biggest industry event", the GITM is organised jointly by Goa tourism development corporation (GTDC), the state tourism department and others.

The event is meant to offer a networking platform for buyers and sellers from the tourism industry and ultimately to boost Goa's travel and tourism industry.

Elaborating on the theme, GTDC managing director Nikhil Desai said that GITM will stress on looking beyond Goa's beaches and will focus on the state's as-yet unexplored hinterland, heritage, churches, temples, cuisine, etc. Desai also said that GITM is tailor-made to facilitate smaller players from Goa's tourism industry to achieve global outreach.

Stressing on the need to go beyond Goa's beaches, Desai said "the sands are tending to slip" with stiff competition from Sri Lanka, Dubai and other neighbouring locations. Goa has not reached the half million mark, yet, in foreign tourist arrivals and neither is it in the top bracket in domestic tourist arrivals, he added.

Desai expressed pride that a prestigious entity in the form of ITB Berlin has shown willingness to partner with GITM in its second year itself.

Tourism director Swapnil Naik also stressed on the theme 'Refresh Goa', saying the tourism department is making attempts to diversify from beach tourism to offer a bouquet of experiences to tourists.

Towards this end, the tourism department has floated expressions of interest for 18 tourism-related infrastructure projects in Goa.

The co-organisers of GITM 2011 include India Tourism, Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).

GITM 2011 is scheduled to be held at the Grand Hyatt, Bambolim. Over 200 buyers have registered so far through the official website www.gitm.co and the numbers are expected to increase to over 1,500 buyers over the next few weeks.

Leading brands partnering with GITM 2011 include: Tourism Authority of Thailand, Le Passage to India, Kuoni India, Air India and Grand Hyatt.

Goa tourism secretary D C Sahoo, said, "The international travel and trade mart, held last year, was a phenomenal success. We are confident that an event like GITM, which is being organized on such a scale, will boost trade and result in increased visitors to the state to experience our unique culture. We will showcase our strength to the global travel industry." 

Crosswoods holidays 2011

FICCI to organise annual travel mart to promote Domestic Tourism- P Krishna Kumar, New Delhi

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) has decided to initiate one more travel mart, one dedicated to Domestic Tourism. From next year, FICCI will organise this mart christened as Great Domestic Tourism Bazaar (GDTB) in New Delhi every August. It will be on the lines of FICCI’s successful inbound mart, Great India Travel Bazaar (GITB) organized annually in Jaipur. The announcement of setting up a mart dedicated to Domestic Tourism was made at the recent one-day Domestic Tourism Conclave organised jointly by FICCI, Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India and ADTOI in New Delhi. Apart from this, FICCI, with its knowledge partner, Yes Bank is working on launching a travel card for tourists. The card will be marketed as ‘Yes Incredible India Card’ and will be introduced shortly.

Dr Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson, FICCI Tourism Committee said that the decision to launch a dedicated travel mart for Domestic Tourism has been taken considering its vast potential in the country. “While inbound into the country is growing at a rate of three per cent annually, the growth in outbound from India is almost 15 per cent. While inbound travellers are not high spenders, Indians are considered as high spenders overseas and other economies are benefiting from Indian travellers,” stated Dr. Suri. She said that Indian travel and tourism industry can benefit and more jobs can be created if the outbound traffic can be tapped and induced to take a holiday within the country.

“FICCI played a pioneering role in launching an inbound exhibition, GITB, four years ago, and GDTB will be another success story in itself. It has been a continuous endeavour of FICCI to engage different state governments to understand the potential of tourism as a revenue and employment generator,” Dr. Suri added. According to Rajiv Kumar, Secretary General, FICCI, GDTB will be a platform for state tourism boards, industry stakeholders, and customers to come together and share “best practices” in the Domestic Tourism industry. 


“We are trying to give a fillip to Domestic Tourism by launching a dedicated platform where all the stakeholders can come together and discuss best practices which have made their mark in Domestic Tourism in one part of the country and explore ways where others can replicate the same for a sustainable Domestic Tourism,” stated Kumar.


Crosswoods holidays 2011

Best of Rajasthan Travel and Tourism- Santosh Ets

Rajasthan, the largest state of India, is an internationally famous tourism destination of India. It boasts numerous tourist attractions and interesting tourist places. Have a look at some of popular tourist places which will give you best experience of Rajasthan travel and tourism.

Jaipur: Jaipur is the largest and capital city of Rajasthan. Famed as the Pink City of India, this beautiful city boats many magnificent monuments such as forts, palaces, temples, havelis, museums and heritage hotels. When you will visit this city you will come across prominent tourist attractions like Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Govind Devji Temple, Birla Temple, Raj Mandir Cinema, Hawa Mahal, Rambagh Palace, Ramniwas Gardens, Jaipur Zoo, Albert Hall Museum, Kanak Vrindavan, etc. Jaipur is also a prominent attraction of golden triangle tour in India.

Jodhpur: Jodhpur is a majestic city with royal charm. Famed as Blue City of India, this majestic city is located on the edge of the vast Thar Desert (Great Indian Desert). When you will explore this city you will come across many prominent tourist attractions such as Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada Memorial, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Balsamand Lake & Palace and Mandore Gardens.

Bikaner: Bikaner is a beautiful city in the state. Located on the edge of the Thar Desert, the city boats many interesting tourist attractions such as Camel Breeding Farm & Research Centre, Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Fort Museum, Laxmi Vilas Palace, and nearby desert villages.

Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer is an important city and wonderful tourist destination on Rajasthan travel and tours. The city is located in the heart of the vast Thar Desert. The Golden Fort (Sonar Kila) is the most important attractions in the city. There are many beautiful Jain temples, havelis and buildings in the fort complex. Tourists can take excursions to nearby tourist places such as Desert National Park, Sam Sand Dunes and Khuri Village.

Udaipur: Udaipur is a beautiful city and important tourist destination in Rajasthan. According to Travel + Leisure, it is the best city in the world. It is the city of lakes and palaces. There are many fairytale palaces and crystal clear lovely lakes in this city. City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Lake Palace, Pichola Lake, Fateh Sagar Lake, Udaipur Solar Observatory, Monsoon Palace, Jagmandir Palace, Saheliyon-Ki-Bari, Vintage Car Collections, etc are attractions you will see in Udaipur, Rajasthan.

These destinations are key attractions of almost all major Rajasthan tour packages. Exploring these famous cities will surely give you best experience of travel and tourism in royal Rajasthan.

About the Author

Santosh Ets is an eminent analyst and writer in Tour and Travel related topics. He has authored many books on Travel guide for Rajasthan Travel and Rajasthan Tour Packages. 

Crosswoods holidays 2011

Few attractions never to be missed while your Kerala Tour- Shahid

Located on the tropical Malabar Coast of southwestern India, a country of God? Kerala is one of the smallest states in India, which has an area of ​​about 1% of the total area of ​​India. This vast area of ​​natural beauty, Kerala has an area of ​​about 40,000 square kilometers of land. Kerala is especially famous for its beautiful beaches, lakes, natural beauty and picturesque places of interest. It has some of the finest beaches and most beautiful beach resorts in India.

It is believed that Kerala tourism is the fastest growing place in Asia and one of the most demanding tourist destinations in the world. When you visit Kerala, you can enjoy the fascination of Kerala with its unique geographical features and rich. You will see that this land of natural beauty called as God's own country. No doubt, blessed with stunning views of this small but beautiful land of Kerala never fails to seduce.

Kerala is known for beautiful beaches and seaside resorts? Perhaps Kerala is having one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. During visits to the beach of Kerala, tourists are attracted to the palm-fringed beaches and famous for surfing calm and blue water. Voyagers experience these sun sand kissed beaches like a paradise on earth.

Kerala is also known for its amazing backwaters. When you visit Kerala backwater you be deceived by these waters. Backwaters of Kerala are a chain of lagoons and lakes. Parallel to the Arabian Sea, parts in Kerala are a network of five large lakes. Houseboats of Kerala are one of the most important tourist attractions in the state of Kerala. When you visit Kerala houseboat you can enjoy the backwaters and other picturesque landscaped areas and beautiful small villages in Kerala through the barges. Living in houseboat is a unique experience and mostly honeymooners and newly married couples prefer backwater cruise stays. It’s really an amazing experience that could be expressed in words so rather make a ride while visiting Kerala.

Each year a large jamboree of tourists come especially for Kerala backwater tours and Kerala houseboat tours. Most tourists visiting Kerala will be rejuvenate as healthy and happy persons that attract them to come back with sweet memories of Kerala backwater tours and Kerala houseboat tours. But Kerala is not only famous for its beautiful beaches, lagoons, houseboats, but also for its Aurveda - an ancient system of Vedic and health care. Health tourism, medical tourism is the emerging trends across the globe and state. 

Medical tourism in the state is favored by Ayurveda treatments, spa therapies and herbal cure. The state has many Ayurvedic treatment centers in all most beach and lake resorts that attract tourists to Kerala Medical Tourism Sector.

Kerala is also having many other wildlife sanctuaries and national parks for its tourists. Fair and festival are conducted every year and that increases in rise of tourists to arrive Kerala from international and national sides. The state also has some of the great monuments and temples. Bekal Fort one of the largest fort’s that have been best preserved of the state of Kerala and the Guruvayoor temple a pilgrim center in Kerala, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna is also considerate to attract tourists.

Make your Kerala holidays a mesmerizing one through visiting these attractions and tourist places.

Author is an eminent analyst and writer in Kerala Tourism Services Related Articles. He has authored many books on tour guide for Kerala Tourism and Resorts in Munnar

Crosswoods holidays 2011

Goa to have full-fledged tourist security force - TOI

PANAJI: Goa will be the first state in the country to have a full-fledged tourist security force (TSF) reporting directly to the tourism department by early next year. 

The TSF's task will include: patrolling Goan tourist hotspots, preventing crime and generally aiding tourists. 

The tourism department, already, has an informal tourist security force of about 35 ex-servicemen working on contract basis. Now, it has advertised for 246 posts of tourist wardens and 230 posts of assistant tourist wardens. The physical tests of the candidates will be conducted from August 16 to August 30 at various centres in the different talukas of Goa. 

Tourism director Swapnil Naik told TOI that only a few states in India have tourist security forces. For example, Tamil Nadu has enlisted ex-servicemen for such a force. However, Goa will be the first state to have a full-fledged force of 476 men under 25 years of age in two categories. The tourist security wardens are required to be matriculates and will be on the level of police constables. The assistant tourist wardens may be under-matriculates. The force will report directly to the tourism department. 

Naik said the TSF will be deployed at tourist attractions in Goa such as beaches, churches, and temples. "Initially, they will not be armed but the government has plans to later give them powers under the police act and even equip them with arms," Naik said. 

After the physical tests in August, interviews will be conducted and recruitment will be completed by October. The force should be operational by January or February, 2012, Naik said, adding that the personnel will receive six-months training on various subjects including aspects of law, information on Goa, language skills, etc. 

Beside law and order, the TSF will monitor and enforce certain aspects of tourism, like ensuring that beach shacks comply with government regulations. The force will prevent nefarious activities on the beach to the point of even ensuring that only the permitted number of deck beds are put on the beach by shack owners. 

The idea was originally mooted by the central government and has been on the state government's wish-list since 2008. In fact, discussions in the Goa legislative assembly in 2008 had proposed that the TSF could be helpful in combating the problem of beggars, hawkers, vendors and masseurs on Goa's beaches. 

source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/Goa-to-have-full-fledged-tourist-security-force/articleshow/9547456.cms
Crosswoods holidays 2011

IRCTC to launch tour packages to holy places - TOI

Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) will launch tour packages for holy places of Shirdi Dham and Shani Singhnapur, Mata Vaishno Devi shrine and Dakshin Bharat Yatra.

Dakshin Bharat Yatra will begin on August 31 and end on September 11. Shirdi Dham and Shani Singhnapur Yatra will commence on September 21 and end in three days. The tour to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu will start on September 30. This tour will culminate on October 3.

All the three tour packages will commence from Kanpur Central railway station. The three tours will culminate in Kanpur.

A passenger, by paying a sum of Rs 6,156, can be a part of the Dakshin Bharat Yatra which will cover Tirupati, Rameshwaram, Madurai and Kanyakumari.

Shirdi Dham, Shani Singhnapur and Mata Vaishno Devi shrine packages are available at Rs 2,052 per passenger.

Manoj Sinha, chief regional manager, IRCTC said that the three tour packages will commence at different dates from Kanpur.

IRCTC will provide confirmed reservation. "We will also arrange accommodation and provide vegetarian food to the passengers three times a day. The passengers are not required to pay anything extra as fooding and lodging prices are included in the packages," Sinha added.

The passengers will be taken to the pre-decided tourist places in non-AC buses.

The can get the seats confirmed by contacting the IRCTC office at platform number one of Kanpur Central. The passengers can also book tour tickets online by logging on to www.railtourismindia.com.

Sinha said that seats in all the three tour packages are limited, therefore, the passengers should get the seats booked in advance.

source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kanpur/IRCTC-to-launch-tour-packages-to-holy-places/articleshow/9540853.cms
Crosswoods holidays 2011

Agra promises a better deal for tourists- TOI

Agra's tourism industry is preparing for the tourist season beginning Sep 1 by launching luxury buses, upgrading monuments and even recruiting English-speaking policemen - all of which is expected to improve the appeal of the city of the Taj Mahal.


Latest figures of the financial year ended March 31, 2011, from the central tourism ministry confirm Agra is at the top position among tourist destinations in India. The Taj Mahal earned around Rs.20 crore ($4.5 mn) from sale of entrance tickets alone. It topped the list of Archaeological Survey of India's Agra circle monuments with 4.18 million Indian and 624,000 foreign tourists visiting it last year.

"Time has come to consolidate the gains and not fritter away the advantage, through increased cooperation and coordination among various government agencies and the local industry," said Rajiv Tiwari, a senior tourism industry leader.

District authorities in cooperation with the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department have finalised a number of schemes that would broadbase facilities for visitors.

Clearly, the flow of tourists has increased which is good for the city, said Rakesh Chauhan, president of the Agra Hotels and Restaurants Association. "One of the measures we are all set to launch this independence day is running a local tourist bus service," Amrit Abhijat, divisional commissioner, said.

Visitors will now be able to board luxurious air-conditioned specially done-up Marco Polo buses, for a tour of the city from the Agra Cantt railway station.

Four buses will take the tourists to Fatehpur Sikri, Sikandra, Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort, according to the regional manager of the state roadways, Neeraj Saxena. Buses will have women conductors and a woman constable.

The buses were being given a trendy look compatible with Mughal heritage, Saxena said.
Tourist guides and brochures would be provided in the buses for convenience. LCD screens will provide relevant information about the monuments. "Four villages in the district have been given 'Tourist Village' status to enable tourists to see our rural culture from a closer angle," the commissioner said.

Government departments have been asked to coordinate and provide amenities for tourists and streamline infrastructure to attract tourists to these villages. Facilities at Bateshwar ghats are being upgraded and better connectivity is being provided. Recently the Yamuna aarti like in Haridwar and Varanasi was started at Batehshwar, the birthplace of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, 70 km from the city.

The state tourism department is already working on the Heritage Walk project which will enable tourists to witness the grandeur of the heritage city on foot, Abhijat said. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Aseem Arun has unveiled a package of police reforms that will not only increase the visibility of cops but also quicken their response.

Cops on sleek bikes, speaking flawless English, with the latest gadgetry will hopefully be seen around monuments to instil a sense of confidence in tourists. Funds from entrance tickets to various monuments collected by the Agra Development Authority would be used to give a makeover to the police image.
The Tourist Thana on Fatehabad road, a special police station for registering the complaints of tourists, is being given a new look.

The DIG has taken the initiative to provide five brand new cars which will patrol the monuments. The selection process for inducting smart English-knowing cops has begun.To add to the sense of security, Arun has ordered the posting of horse-mounted cops around the monuments.

Women cops on scooties are already on the move keeping an eye on eve-teasers. Police teams are being provided with latest state-of-the-art gadgets, belts, night vision cameras and laser beams.
A proposal to print helpline numbers on entrance tickets to various monuments has been green-signalled. Providing helpline numbers would better address the grievances of tourists, said hotelier Sandip Arora.


Crosswoods holidays 2011

Medical tourism industry to touch Rs 10,800 cr by 2015: Assocham

Market size of the Indian medical tourism sector is likely to more than double to Rs 10,800 crore by 2015 from Rs 4,500 crore at present, industry chamber Assocham on Friday said in its study. 

The inflow of medical tourists in India is also likely to cross 32 lakh by 2015 from the current level of 8.5 lakh, it said. 

"Top notch healthcare facilities like cardiology, joint replacement, orthopedic surgery, transplants and urology at a low price are certain key factors making India a favoured destination in terms of medical tourism," the study said. 

States like Andhara Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerela, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and New Delhi are fast emerging as India's best medical centres with several hospitals and specialty clinics coming up in the cities, it said. 

India is also offering other medical services like yoga, meditation and ayurveda, which is increasingly becoming popular as a non-surgical treatment for various ailments among the foreign patients. 

The country attracts large number of medical tourists from the Middle East, America, Europe and also from neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan. 

However, it said that the country is facing tough competition in the sector from nations like Australia, Belgium, Greece, Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa and Thailand that are actively promoting healthcare tourism worldwide. 

The study has proposed to develop 'Multi-Specialty Health City' on public-private partnership basis at 10 centres - Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Chennai, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, New Delhi, Pudducherry and Pune. 

"The proposal envisages setting up super-specialty hospitals in an eco-friendly atmosphere...with highly trained English-speaking healthcare professionals at affordable price," it added. 

Both central and state governments need to play key role in setting up these centres.

Crosswoods holidays 2011

Tamil Nadu Tour and Tourism: For an Unforgettable Experience: Sofia jaiswal

It is a delighting visitor’s place of South India. It is sought by points of visitors every year. People visit here to see its mysterious wildlife, hottest beaches, wonderful hill stations, charming temples and many more things. It is universally well known place amidst tourists for spending pleasant holidays. The convolute attraction of ancient culture and vogue attractions calls on scores of tourists to this place from several parts of the globe. The well-known attractions of Taamilnadu are:

Kodaikanal

It is a destination for idealistic holiday in South India. It is sanctified with awesome charm of Raj-era Bungalows, blue-green Vegai Plain, blossoming gardens and breezy atmosphere. Completely several a times, the destination is being explored by tourist who wants to take pleasure in the adventure of para-gliding and hang-gliders. The assumable analysis might be its skyward altitude, which measures more than two thousands.

Kanniyakumari

It is explained as the land’s end of this country, the southernmost end of this state, or the point where the three seas meet or Cape Comorin is one of the well known tourist destination in the state. Climate is so impressive at this place that numerous other beaches of India pale by comparison. It looks as if it is by earlier arrangement.

Thiruvannamalai

It is situated at the hoof of a hill from Chennai. It is one of the bigger shrine centers in this country. There are many distinct shrines were sanctified to lord Siva for worshipping him in the form of five elements of namely, nature, earth, water, wind, ire and ether. The Arunachaleshwara shrine in this place is one of them and Siva is worshipped in the form of fire.

Vellore

It is presently beating with bustle as a departmental, commercial, educational and medical centre.

It had the perquisite of being the reclining of the many kingdoms. It evolved into a busily city gradually since the 6th century changing the rulers and growing in importance. It has well known Christian Medical College and Hospital where patients from all angles of the globe get advanced medical treatment.

Madurai

It is reputed as Athens of the East; it is a destination of important historical and amazing cultural importance. It is the oldest city in this state and it lies on the edge of the well known River Vaigai. It is one of the energetic cities in South India it was generally reputed as Kadambavanam or the "forest of Kadamba" or the Nauclea kadamba.

Mamallapuram

It has reserved its integrity in stone. It is amidst the best extraordinary samples of Dravidian art and architecture and a jewel in the crown of this state. It grapes its own, and settles as a silent yet eloquent witness to the glory of its creators. The wonderful dance festival of this place is celebrated every year during winter season. The dance happens during the weekends.

If you think out a journey to South India enjoy this state as it is full of amazing attractions.


Article Source: http://travel.ezinemark.com/tamil-nadu-tour-and-tourism-for-an-unforgettable-experience-7d2fb50ea16b.html

Crosswoods holidays 2011

Foreign Tourist Arrivals To India Jumped 24.2 per cent: Gagan Sharma

According to Tourism Ministry, foreign tourist arrivals to India in 2010 jumped 24.2. per cent. Tourist arrivals in India reached 17.9 million in 2010 comparing to 14.4 million in 2009.


Tourism was helped by the advertising campaigns in several countries as well the road shows in major cities around the world by the Tourism Ministry of India.

The prospect of Indian tourism looks good following the 2 years slump due to the global recession and Mumbai terror attacks in 2008. Domestic tourism too soared 10.7 per cent to 740 million in 2010.

Despite the strong growth, rising cost of travel in India remains a big concern for the Tourism Industry. Hotels rate are rising quite sharply across India. Tourism Ministry believes that shortage of 150,000 to 170,000 as major reason for the spike in hotels tariff.

Rising travel cost comparing to other Asian countries like Thailand, China and Malaysia not only threatens foreign tourist arrivals but domestic tourism as well. High prices of hotels and airfare to Goa has turned hundreds of tourists from North India to spend vacation in Thailand.
Crosswoods holidays 2011

Free and Paid Press Release Distribution: PRSafe.com – Bharat Book Bureau - Asian Medical Tourism Analysis (2008-2012)

As per new research report “Asian Medical Tourism Analysis (2008-2012)”, the Asian medical tourism industry revenue is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 20% during 2010-2013. Asian countries, such as India, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand have been pouring investments into their healthcare infrastructure to meet the demand for supreme quality-assured medical care through first-class facilities and highly trained medical specialists, including tertiary hospital care.

Free and Paid Press Release Distribution: PRSafe.com – Bharat Book Bureau - Asian Medical Tourism Analysis (2008-2012)

Crosswoods holidays 2011

ICPB, SKICC join hands to promote convention tourism Smaller: GK News

Srinagar, July 30: The Indian Convention Promotion Board (ICPB) and Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) have joined hands to promote Kashmir as a destination for convention tourism.

The board during a recent visit here was impressed with the facilities at the SKICC which they considered fit for conventions. 

The ICPB, a joint effort between the private and public sectors, propagates India’s ability to hold conventions and conferences of all shapes and sizes.

Conceived 24 years ago, and sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism, ICPB today is the only travel industry body that can boast of participation from the entire Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry with members from central and state governments, hotels, airlines, tour operators, travel agents, exhibition suppliers, professional conference organizers, event managers, educational institutions and more, a statement here said.

What makes ICPB unique is this cross segment membership base. “This allows for dynamism in how we collectively market India as a MICE destination as well as for buy-in from the all stakeholders from the entire travel industry,” it said.

The ICPB is chaired by Devesh Chaturvedi, Additional Director General of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism Government of India with the support of 14 private sector members on the Governing board.

Meanwhile, the board held an interactive session today with eminent dignitaries from the tourism department including Minister of Tourism and Culture, J&K Nawang Rigzin Jora and MOS Home and Tourism, Nasir Aslam Wani at SKICC here. 

Director SKICC, Dr G N Qasba on that occasion presented the welcome address and introduced the ICPB members.

Others present included Commissioner Secretary Tourism, Atul Dhullu and Director Tourism Kashmir Farooq Shah. 

Jora urged members of the tour and travel community and the hoteliers present to be proactive and said that all those involved with tourism must work together as a body to help improve the livelihood of those dependant on travel and tourism as they are all common stakeholders of this industry.

“MICE tourism should be given prominent focus while looking at newer areas of business expansion for the tourism industry. 

The ICPB board was represented by Rajeev Kohli – Vice Chairman ICPB and Joint Managing Director Creative Travel

Chander Mansharamani – Hony Treasurer ICPB and Managing Director Alpcord Events
Sudip Sinha, Board Member and Head MICE, International Travel House
Naveen Chibber, Board Member and General Manager Orient Express Travels & Tours
Ritu Chawla, Board Member and Air India
Deepali Bhatia, Board Member and North India Head MICE Taj Group of Hotels
Rajesh Khanna, Board Member and Executiev Director, Sales & Marketing  Ambercombie & Kent

The ICPB has agreed to bring in international trainers on MICE to help train and build skills of the local tourism and travel community which will go a long way in enhancing the opportunities of Kashmir to attract MICE business.

Crosswoods holidays 2011