Korea Incentive Night celebrated in Mumbai with élan

Korea Tourism Organization, organized Incentive Travel Mart followed by ‘Korea Incentive Night’ on 29th April 2014 at ITC Grand, Mumbai. Korea Tourism Organization, New Delhi is leading the group of delegates comprising of Regional Tourism Organization from Jeju, Gyeonggi, Busan province, and Destination Management Companies and Cultural troupe from Korea.

The Travel Mart highlighted products and offerings from Korea on MICE perspective and it was attended by over 200 people from travel trade and corporates. Korea Tourism Organization is providing platform between Indian Travel Trade, Media & Corporate and Korean Suppliers. It’s a great opportunity for Business Networking among with Indian and Korean Partners for future relationship.

Korea has been ranked at no. 6 as ‘MICE Destination’ in the world. Korea has achieved the position at no. 3 for organizing the MICE events in Asia. Korea Tourism Organization is playing a core role in assisting and securing events for Korea. Korea Tourism Organization provides support from the first planning stages right to the final farewells. The utmost charm of Korea is its ‘energy’. No other country has such condensed and unique energy and charm that makes a truly memorable destination.

Korea Tourism Organization invited the Most Delicious Performance in the World ‘ Bibap’ – Bibap is a nonverbal performance based on the Korean representative dish, bibimbap (rice mixed with vegetables and beef). As a nonverbal performance, the actors mimic the sound of making bibimbap with beat-boxing and a cappella, demonstration of motions through b-boying, and acrobatics and martial arts. The performance was for about 30 minutes without any intermission.

“This is the biggest group of delegates’ of 10 organizations and over 30 people visiting India. Mumbai being Financial and Capital market of India is very important market for us to target. Since Korea is emerging as a preferred location for shooting, we will be targeting Bollywood for shooting in Korea also. Korea companies in Hi Tech, Automotive, IT, Semiconductors, Iron & Steel, Ship Building, Food and Packaging and Wellness has established globally and we will be focusing to target the same sectors in India for MICE events” Mr. Jae Sang Lee, Director, Korea Tourism Organization.

 

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To know more about planning a MICE to Korea, write to:

Ms. Seema Kala @india@knto.or.kr or Or visit:www.visitkorea.or.kr

– Report by Bienu Verma Vaghela

Wales offer exhilirating offers for the month of June, 2014

Wales offers exhilarating events in the coming months in the coming months starting from June and ending in August 2014.

Make most of your summers by visiting Wales in these months and enjoy the events lined up for visitors…

Travelknots exclusively brings for you the calendar for June 2014 events and if you decide to visit for any of the events, pls put a request on my blog.

This year the Welsh Government has planned a whole lot of events which caters to people of all genres. Whether you’re a fun seeking family, a chilled out couple, or anything in-between, there are plenty of things to do in Wales during these events. Unlock a land of myths and legends, vibrant history and culture, stately homes, mighty castles and great gardens, all enveloped by rugged coast and dramatic landscapes.
Rest assured , you won’t be bored in Wales!!!

Calendar for June 2014 events:

The 5th Seafair Haven Festival – 7th to 14th June 2014 – Pembrokeshire, Wales

Seafair Haven is a maritime festival which takes place biennially, for traditional and classic vessels and long boat rowing to celebrate the magnificent Milford Haven Waterway in Pembrokeshire. From the sheltered upper reaches, to the dramatic scenery of St Ann’s Head, there will be opportunities to meet up with old friends and make new ones whilst enjoying the heritage, culture and welcome of the picturesque Host Ports. http://www.seafairhaven.org.uk/

Gregynog Festival – 13th June 2014 – Powys in Mid Wales

Gregynog Festival is the oldest festival of its kind in Wales and one of the UK’s premier classical music events. Located in the beautiful countryside of the Welsh Borders, it brings the finest international artists together in a house-party atmosphere to perform programmes inspired by an annual curatorial theme. http://gregynogfestival.org/festival-2014/

Snowdonia Arts Festival – 14th to 15th June 2014 – Betws-y-Coed, Wales

Betws-y-Coed and the Conwy Valley have retained a strong connection with the arts ever since the original artists’ colony. Many artists and craftsmen live and work in the area, and The Snowdonia Arts Festival has been organised to celebrate the artistic heritage of the area, the artists currently working here, and the artistic endeavours of local schoolchildren through workshops and competitions.

Swansea International Jazz Festival – 20th to 22nd June 2014 – The Dylan Thomas Centre, Wales

Swansea Jazzland, in conjunction with Swansea Metropolitan University, Swansea City Council and Arts Council Wales will be presenting Swansea International Jazz Festival. A full and varied programme of jazz over the weekend with a combination of ticketed and Free events. http://www.sijf.co.uk/

Glastonbury – 25th to 29th June 2014 – Somerset, Wales

In many ways, Glastonbury is like loads of different festivals converging on the same gorgeous countryside for the weekend. Each area of the Festival has its own character, its own loyal fans and its own special attractions: so Silver Hayes (formerly the Dance Village) is as distinct from the Green Fields as the Circus & Theatre fields are from The Park. http://www.efestivals.co.uk/festivals/glastonbury/2014

Pembrokeshire Fish week – 28th June to 6th July 2014 – Pembrokshire, Wales

If you love good food, enjoy beach and out door activities or just great family fun, then you will definitely enjoy thePembrokeshire Fish Week Festival and there is plenty for non fish lovers too. There are also lots of opportunities for keen cooks to learn how to get the best out of their fish and shellfish in a variety of demonstrations and master classes with top chefs. http://www.pembrokeshirefishweek.co.uk/

Swansea Pride – 28th June 2014 – Swasea , Wales

Raising awareness about the issues and difficulties affecting the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. Cultivating a sentiment in favour of equality and diversityin particular through celebrating the diversity of the LGBT community. Staging an annual LGBT festival and smaller events throughout the region. http://www.swanseapride.com/

The Dylanathon – 28th June 2014 – Dylan Thomas Birthplace, Swansea, Wales

The Dylanathon is a photographic competition with a twist. It’s not just for the professional but anyone with a digital camera, smartphone or tablet looking for a fun and challenging day out. This competition is not just for the technically proficient. We are looking for inspired interpretations of the subjects – one photo of each of ten Dylan related subjects over an eight hour period.http://www.dylanathon.com/

All Wales Boat Show – 30th May to 1st June 2014 – Conwy Quay Marina, Wales

The All Wales Boat Show is a celebratory festival of all water-based activities & is unique to the Region with a catchment. The All Wales Boat Show, WYA will again be offering you the opportunity to refresh your boating skills and gain top tips from expert’8 instructors at the All Wales Boat Show. FREE on-the-water and shorebased workshops in partnership with Celtic Cruising & Snowdonia Sailing School. http://www.onthewater.co.uk/events/event_items/all_wales_boat_show_2014.aspx

NoFit State Circus – 23rd May to 7th June 2014 – Cardiff, Wales
Wales’ own NoFit State Circus returns home with award-winning BIANCO, a show that has set audiences alight throughout the world. BIANCO is a tale of beauty and transformation, with death defying circus skills set to intoxicating live music in a non-stop two hour celebration of life. It is an all-consuming experience where the audience is at the heart of the action. http://www.nofitstate.org/shows/bianco/boxoffice

Woodfest Wales – 27th to 29th June 2014 – St Asaph, Wales
An interactive festival, full of exciting things to do for all the family. Step back in time and see craftsmen and women carrying out traditional Crafts and skills – creating beautiful, facinating and functional art, sculptures, objects, buildings and more. Watch the latest high tech forest equipment demonstrated by working professionals. Woodfest has 7 different event arenas with exhilarating displays on constantly along with over 150 outside stands of demonstrations and trade, and 6 main marquees full of interesting and unique goods produced in this country. http://www.woodfestwales.co.uk/

Gower Folk Festival – 13th to 15th June 2014 – Gower Peninsula, Wales

Gower Folk Festival is unique, with fantastic music set amidst the scenery of Gower in an award-winning micro-brewery pub! Our atmosphere is legendary, both audience & performer are members of an exclusive musical party taking place in a very special location, the Gower peninsula. Camping is provided on site, so there will be nothing easier than sliding out of your tent into a workshop or concert. This is an area of outstanding natural beauty with sandy beaches, ruined castles & wild ponies, all within walking distance of the festival. http://www.gowerfolkfestival.co.uk/

Compilation by Bienu Verma Vaghela

Tourism Malaysia Road Show in Mumbai on March 18, 2014

 March 18, the Malaysian delegation led by the Minister of Tourism and Culture, the Honorable Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz and other top officials from the Ministry of Tourism is in Mumbai. 

As part of the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 (VMY 2014) celebrations, Tourism Malaysia is  unveiling a host of new marketing initiatives during their annual sales mission in India from March 12 to 20, 2014 in the cities of Kochi, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Delhi.

Minister of Tourism and Culture, the Honorable Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz

While the primary objective of the Minister’s visit is to strengthen Malaysia’s standing as a dream travel destination and increase tourist arrivals from India, Dato Nazri is also looking forward to driving strong support from both the Indian travel trade fraternity and media for the ongoing Visit Malaysia Year 2014. Malaysia has launched its 4^th VMY2014, with the aim of luring 28 million tourist arrivals and 76 billion RM (over 23 billion USD) in tourism revenue.

During his visit, the Tourism and Culture Minister is scheduled to meet and engage members of the media at a press conference to provide them with first-hand information and updates on Malaysia’s tourism industry.

Besides unveiling new marketing initiatives for the Indian market, the sales mission is also a platform for Malaysia’s tourism industry players to strengthen ties with their Indian counterparts. The mission will see top Malaysian Tourism Officials interact with key tour operators, associates from travel, service & hospitality sector in all cities to discuss and explore areas for collaboration to attract more Indian tourists to Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia’s Indian Sales Mission is holding road show in Mumbai on March 18, 2014. 

 About Tourism Malaysia India

Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, popularly known as Tourism Malaysia, was established to promote Malaysia as a top-of-mind tourist destination showcasing Malaysia’s unique wonders, attractions and cultures; develop domestic tourism and enhance Malaysia’s share of the market for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE). Tourism Malaysia’s objective is to promote Malaysia as an outstanding tourist destination and make the tourism industry a major contributor to the socio-economic development of the nation. In India, Tourism Malaysia offices are conveniently located in cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai.

This year, Malaysia celebrates its fourth VISIT MALAYSIA YEAR (VMY) with the theme “Celebrating 1Malaysia Truly Asia”. During the celebration of VMY 2014, the country will be abuzz with various colourful parades, carnivals, festivals, shows, events, conventions and celebrations. These will cover a wide range of activities from sports and culture to festivals and arts, reflecting a celebration of the diverse lifestyles and customs of Malaysia. It will contribute to the Government’s target to receive 36 million tourist arrivals and RM 168 billion in receipts by 2020, as outlined in the Malaysia Tourism Transformation Plan (MTTP) 2020.

– Bienu Verma Vaghela

Sepang Will Be Perfect for Indian F1 Fans, says SIC

Mr. Dhananjay Saliankar – Starwood Group of Hotels – Director Sales,
Mr. Mohamed Sathik Ali Mohd Meera – GM Western India – Malaysia Airlines
Mr. Manoharan Periasamy – Director – Tourism Malaysia
Mr. Ashutosh Mehere – Cox and Kings
Dato Razlan Razali, CEO, Sepang International Circuit

Dato Razlan Razali, CEO of Sepang International Circuit & Mr Manoharan Peraisamy, Director of Tourism Malaysia at the F1 event in Mumbai

For the first time in four years, Sepang International Circuit (SIC) – promoter and organiser of the 2014 Formula 1 Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix – has recommended for motor racing fans in India to adjust their travelling plans to Sepang, which will be hosting Round 2 of the World Championship next month.  

“Hence, coming to Sepang will provide you a 2-in-1 unrivalled package of Malaysian hospitality and F1 extravaganza. With lucrative travel packages and sales discounts, the 2014 Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix is an event not to be missed by any motorsports fan throughout the world. “It’s a case of a 2-in-1 offer package – you get the best of Malaysian hospitality at discounted prices and an unrivalled motorsports experience at one of the world’s best racing circuit.

“In fact, it would be more than just motorsports experience in Sepang. It’s a host of everything extraordinary as ‘Sepang Comes Alive’ at the 16th edition of the Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix,” Razlan added. Tickets for the world class event are as low as INR 1,820.00making Sepang, which first hosted the prestigious race in 1999, as one the most affordable venue in the Formula 1 calendar. Main Grandstand tickets, which provide excellent viewing at vantage points are priced between INR 40,230.000 and INR 6,370.00.

Razlan said: “At Sepang, fans can witness the F1 teams and drivers pushing their machines to the limit as they battle around the slick, challenging racing circuit. It would be totally different from the contest at Albert Park.  “And, you will also experience plenty more than just the best of F1 excitement in Sepang. It’s a total experience of Malaysian carnival and food festival, shopping escapade, extreme sports, auto jamboree, entertainment, fun and games, a captivating opening ceremony gimmick and a post-race concert featuring world renowned DJ, Calvin Harris as the main act,” he added.

To be staged at what is now a well-known concert venue – the SIC Helipad, the post-race concert, which would be held after the conclusion of the race, would also feature other international and local acts such as Super8 & DJ Tab, Rasztooten, Imma*Bleep*Youup! and Ben Gold. “Grandstand ticket holders as well those with C2 Hillstand tickets would get free admission to the concert. Those with C1, K2 and K3 Hillstand tickets would need to top up for the concert tickets. For the very first time in the history of the event, the off-track attractions would feature special 3D exhibition at the Mall Area, which would trace back the history for Formula 1 in Malaysia since the last 15 years.

“We would be installing over 30 3D panels, which would be designed as the Walls of Fame and take the fans to experience a special Formula 1 journey,” Razlan said, adding that fans would also be treated to a special F1 3D Motion as the climax to 3D experience.

“After the walk through exhibition, fans would be treated to a special 3D cinema on Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix,” said Razlan, who also announced that the popular Tourism Malaysia Pavilion, which showcases the wonders of Malaysia, would make its presence for a second consecutive year. Over at the national capital in Kuala Lumpur, fans can indulge themselves in countless F1-theme activities and events including various meet-the-drivers sessions, the GP Street Demo and the open-for-public pre-race Twin Tower@LIVE concert, which would be held for two consecutive days on March 28 and 28 at the Petronas Twin Tower.

To be held on March 23, the PMGP Street Demo, would be held along the stretch in front of Suria KLCC at Jalan Ampang, featuring Mercedes Petronas GP Team as well as other racers from the Petronas-sponsored racing teams.  The prestigious Gala Dinner would be held in Kuala Lumpur on March 27, but with a difference for the 16th edition of the Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix.

 “It would still be on invitation basis. But, what’s different this year is that the Gala Dinner concert will have a separated standing room allocated for general F1 ticket holders,” he said, adding that a formal announcement on the artist would be announced later. On top of that, in conjunction with the Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix, Malaysia will also play host to two international conferences starting with the Offshore Technology Conference Asia (from March 25 to 28) which will be held for the first time in Asia and expected to draw over 1,500 delegates, 500 exhibitors and 15,000 trade visitors followed by the World Airport Cities Conference from March 31 to April 2.

About Tourism Malaysia India

Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, popularly known as Tourism Malaysia, was established to promote Malaysia as a top-of-mind tourist destination showcasing Malaysia’s unique wonders, attractions and cultures; develop domestic tourism and enhance Malaysia’s share of the market for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE). Tourism Malaysia’s objective is to promote Malaysia as an outstanding tourist destination and make the tourism industry a major contributor to the socio-economic development of the nation. In India, Tourism Malaysia offices are conveniently located in cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai.

This year, Malaysia celebrates its fourth VISIT MALAYSIA YEAR (VMY) with the theme “Celebrating Malaysia Truly Asia”.  During the celebration of VMY 2014, the country will be abuzz with various colourful parades, carnivals, festivals, shows, events, conventions and celebrations. These will cover a wide range of activities from sports and culture to festivals and arts, reflecting a celebration of the diverse lifestyles and customs of Malaysia. It will contribute to the Government’s target to receive 36 million tourist arrivals and RM 168 billion in receipts by 2020, as outlined in the Malaysia Tourism Transformation Plan (MTTP) 2020.

 

Goa much more than beaches – Visit VIVA CARNAVAL 2014, February 28 – March 4, 2014

Goa is all set for hosting yet another edition of VIVA CARNAVAL 2014…this was announced with much fan fare by none other than The Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Dilip Parulekar at Bungalow 9, Bandra. It was a perfect setting for the evening as venue itself enthused the spirit of Goa and all of us had great time there.   The event kicked off with an very informative presentation by Mr. Nikhil Desai, MD of GTDC, and Director of Tourism on Goa as well as Carnaval.

This year’s Carnaval is all set to  revive the yesteryears’ fervor with larger-than-life décor, mask installations and a Food & Cultural Festival – the biggest of its kind in Goa. Goa Tourism has left no stone unturned to take the 2014 Carnaval experience to a heightened level of excitement and entertainment. The festival, as usual, will feature float parades in four cities i.e. Panaji, Margao, Vasco and Mapusa. Apart from the float parade, this year’s event will also include a Food & Cultural Festival for the first time where visitors will not only get to taste local Goan Cuisine but also cuisines of 15 other states of India. It will offer visitors the opportunity to experience cuisine and culture through a unique blend of food, fun, local and national live music performances, fashion shows, and entertainment.

An element of competition has also been introduced with entries being invited for the King Momo Contest and the cooking competition. This public event recognizes Goa’s diverse population including its vast tourist populace and promotes a message of tolerance, friendship and inclusiveness.

The other highlights of the Carnaval announced by Hon’ble Minister are:

~ Tourism Minister Shri Dilip Parulekar speaks to media in Mumbai to unveil grand plans for this year’s event. Tourism department expecting over 2.5 lakh tourists.

~ The celebrations begin on February 28 with the Food and Culture festival and go on till March 4. Brazilian samba, live performances by Raghu Dixit Project and Strings to light up celebrations

~ Announces other events and festivals lined up in 2014 to promote Goa as the ideal destination for celebrations

~Upcoming movie ‘Youngistaan’ comes on board as movie partner for Goa Carnaval 2014

While addressing the media, The Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Dilip Parulekar, said “The festivities will begin on February 28 with the inauguration of the food and culture festival and wind up on March 4. The Minister also added that this year’s event will be one of the most colourful and vibrant editions of the Carnaval. The event is Goa’s tribute to its diverse population and heritage; it aims to spread a message of peace, unity and harmony.”

VIVA CARNAVAL 2014 announcement event

Minister added, “ The Goa Carnaval is the highlight of our annual calendar and we want to ensure that this will be an unforgettable experience for locals as well as visitors to the state. Our vision is to see that the Carnaval here becomes as popular as the legendary Brazilian Carnival.”

Adding further, Minister informed that Goa Tourism is keen on promoting the state as a place for celebrations. “Goa is a place that induces a contagious celebratory spirit, right from weddings to festivals everything here is celebrated with pomp and fervor. This is why we are also promoting and packaging festivals and events like the Carnaval 2014 followed by Cashew & Coconut Festival, Goa International Travel Mart. Others like Shigmo, Sao Jao, Bonderam and Tirpurari Purnima have some quaint traditions associated with that are a testimony to Goa’s rich history. It is also our effort to preserve the heritage and cultural lineage of our state.”

Shri Parulekar then went on to enthusiastically outline the plans for this year’s event and mentioned that the state is geared up to expect and accommodate over 2.5lakh tourists during this time. The Carnaval 2014 commences with a Food and Culture festival on February 28, which will highlight the cuisine and rich legacy of Goa. This festival will also feature participation from other states. To add that element of glamour and excitement to the proceedings, a Brazilian troupe will be especially flown in for an electrifying Samba performance. Prominent musicians including the Raghu Dixit Project, Strings and some famous home-grown bands will perform at the festival too. It is expected that a fashion show and a fire display will also be included in the celebrations.

The event also saw actors Jackky Bhagnani and Neha Sharma, who star in the upcoming movie Youngistaan, speaking to the media about their experiences in Goa and association with the Carnaval. Youngistaan  is the official movie partner for Goa Carnaval 2014.

Goa Tourism is also taking measures to ensure that high standards of safety, hygenie and cleanliness are maintained in the state. Shri Nikhil Desai, MD of GTDC, and Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, said, “We have taken measures to ensure 100 per cent safety for everyone and have increased the deployment of police force at tourist spots. We are also in the process of increasing room inventory for tourists.”

 

 

Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar of Udaipur, Rajasthan India ties the knot

Spectacular wedding ceremonies conducted at Bhubaneswar; historic coming together of two of India’s most respected families to celebrate the House of Mewar and Patna Balangir union

It was in the wee hours of the morning when the Pheras and Panigrahan Sanskars or the wedding rituals of Mr Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar of Udaipur and Ms Nivritti Kumari Singh Deo of Patna Balangir were concluded at the Janta Maidan, amidst the chants of prayers, music and drum-beats, marking the beginning of their life as a newly-wedded couple. At the mandap area, the parents – Mr Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Ms Sangeeta Devi Singh Deo – along with the priests of the House of Patna Balangir blessed the couple, resplendent in their wedding attire of red and yellow and aglitter with the traditional jewellery they wore. It was an incredible spectacle at the Janta Maidan where the entire Patna Balangir palace facade had been recreated, complete with its domes and chhatris, walls, screens and ramparts.

Earlier, the guests witnessed the arrival of Mr Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar of Udaipur at the venue in a Rolls Royce. Looking dazzling in yellow poshak or robes, with rose-garlands across his chest, the groom was accompanied by his father, Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar and Mr Jyotiraditya Scindia, the scion of the Scindia family, who were attired in their traditional ceremonial robes and jewels to mark the historic occasion. The baraat party comprised almost all the important former royal houses of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhatisgarh, Bihar and Maharashtra; dressed in their ceremonial attire, carrying the family swords in hand, wearing their colourful safas and pugrees, it was a sight to behold. Every robe, sherwani or achhkan, necklace or bejewelled bracelet narrated a royal story of which the person wearing was immensely proud of. Probably never in recent history have so many former royal family members gathered together to celebrate the wedding ceremonies; the House of Mewar and Patna Balangir wedding ceremonies began in May 2013 and what a colourful and dignified climax it is now reaching in January 2014.

Under the night sky, as a waning moon rose up, the groom and baraat party were greeted with hundreds of musicians and drum-beaters whose never-ending crescendos led the way. This was the Baranugaman, marking the entry of the wedding guests or baraat party into the venue. Mr Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar of Udaipur, after alighting from the Rolls Royce, was seated atop the elephant in the silver howdah with the House of Mewar crest. The groom, atop the elephant, with the entire wedding or baraat party walking solemnly in front, seemed as if a traditional painting from the Court of Mewar had come to life! While Mr Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo did the honours of greeting Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar and the esteemed wedding guests, at every step of the Maidan’s pathway, the groom’s alighting from the elephant was also memorable as he was escorted by his wedding entourage and seated along with his father on the specially-decorated stage to be seated in the time-honoured Singhasan Arohan. The lawajma or the ceremonial signage of Mewar accompanied the groom and provided a befitting backdrop to the stage where the Patna Balangir priests began their rituals at the muharat or auspicious hour assigned.

For the wedding guests, it was now time to raise a toast to this matrimonial union of the House of Mewar with the House of Patna Balangir; at an exquisitely designed section of the Maidan, cocktails and dinner were served with music and dance matching the mood of festivities.