Akshay

Tourism Industry in India

THE BOOMING TOURISM INDUSTRY
The year 2004-05 saw tourism emerging as one of the major sectors for growth of Indian economy, the foreign exchange earnings increased from Rs. 16,429 crore to 21,828 crore up to December. Similarly in the last year, tourism industry registered a growth rate of 17.3% in foreign tourist arrivals, which has been the highest in last 10 years. Foreign exchange earnings grew at an even higher rate 30.2%.

India's tourism industry is thriving due to an increase in foreign tourists arrivals and greater than before travel by Indians to domestic and abroad destinations. The visitors are pouring in from all over the world: Europe, Africa, Southeast Asia and Australia. At the same time, the number of Indians traveling has also increased. Some tourists come from Middle East countries to witness the drenching monsoon rains in India, a phenomenon never seen in desert climates.



Domestic tourists are also fueling the industry's revival. Many of them escape from the summer heat on the plains to resorts in the Himalayan Mountains. One of the major beneficiaries this year is Kashmir, where a cease-fire between India and Pakistan has reduced violence, if not completely, at least enough to help revive the state's sagging tourism industry.

Among the most favoured tourist destinations in India, Kerala for its scenic beauty, Agra for Taj Mahal, Khujraho for its sculptures and temples, Goa for its beaches and some pilgrimages are the most important.

Interesting feature of this growth is that it has come even as global tourism has dropped, due to the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States, the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome in East Asia, and the Iraq war. Even the disastrous tsunami didn't affect India's tourism industry, as tourist arrivals in India rose 23.5 percent in Dec 2004 and tourist arrivals crossed 3 million mark for the first time in 2004.. The disaster was expected to have a negative impact on India's tourism in terms of large-scale cancellations of tourists to India but nothing of that sort was seen.


REASONS FOR THIS BOOM
There could be several reasons for the buoyancy in the Indian tourism industry. First, the upward trend observed in the growth rate of Indian economy has raised middle class incomes, prompting more people to spend money on vacations abroad or at home. Also, India is booming in the information technology industry and has become the IT center. Aggressive advertising campaign " Incredible India" by the government has also had contribution in changing India's image from that of a land of snake charmers, and sparking new interest among overseas travellers.

TOURISM CONTRIBUTION TO THE INDIAN ECONOMY
It is not hidden that tourism is among India's important export industries. Even with comparatively low levels of international tourist traffic, tourism has already emerged as an important segment of the Indian economy. Tourism also contributed to the economy indirectly through its linkages with other sectors like horticulture, agriculture, poultry, handicrafts and construction.

Foreign exchange earnings from tourism during 2003-04 were US $ 3,533 million ( Rs 16,429 crore).

Besides being an important foreign exchange earner, tourism industry also provides employment to millions of people in India both directly and indirectly ( through its linkage with other sectors of the economy.) It is estimated that total direct employment in the tourism sector is around 20 million.



MEASURES TAKEN FOR TOURISM PROMOTION
Recently, Indian government adopted a multi-pronged approach for promotion of tourism, which includes new mechanism for speedy implementation of tourism projects, development of integrated tourism circuits and rural destinations, special capacity building in the unorganized hospitality sector and new marketing strategy.

A nation wide campaign, for creating awareness about the effects of tourism and preservation of our rich heritage & culture, cleanliness and warm hospitality through a process of training and orientation was launched during 2004-05. The aim was to rebuild that sense of responsibility towards tourists among Indians and re-enforces the confidence of foreign tourist towards India as a preferred holiday destination. More than 6500 taxi drivers, restaurant owners and guides trained under the programme.

Government also took several other initiatives to promote Indian tourism industry and increased the plan allocation for tourism i.e. from Rs 325 crore in 2003-04 to Rs. 500 crore in 2004-05. Road shows in key source markets of Europe, Incredible India campaign on prominent TV channels and in magazines across the world were among the few steps taken to advertise Indian tourism. In addition a task force was set up to promote India as prominent health tourism destination.

However, in order to attract more visitors, India still needs to upgrade its airports, roads and other infrastructure to global standards. Even with the recent surge, tourist arrivals are just a mere percentage of those in such popular Asian destinations like Bangkok and Thailand.

RECENT DEVELOPMENT IN TOURISM INDUSTRY

India Tourism office at Tokyo won two International Awards in Tour Expo held at Daegu in Korea for excellent tourism promotion. Indian Pavilion won the Best Booth Design Award as well as Best Folklore Performance Award competing with major players in tourism such as China, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia and Canada.

The theme of pavilion was the Buddhist pilgrimage in India. Multi promotional activities undertaken by Tokyo office drew a large crowd to India Pavilion, which added colours to the entire travel show. The Korea’s leading newspapers published on the front page the Incredible India booth’s photographs highlighting various aspects. The live Yoga performance and Indian traditional snacks at the pavilion were enjoyed very much by the visitors.

__________________
If at first you don't succeed, call it v1.0!

Akshay

An old article from the ministry of external affairs


Tourism

India has significant potential for becoming a major global tourist destination. The country witnessed foreign tourist arrivals of 2.75 million in 2001.

• Travel and tourism is the second highest foreign exchange earner for India, and the government has given organisations in this industry export house status. The industry is waking up to the potential of domestic tourism as well, with an estimated 4.7 billion domestic trips in 2001. Tourism spending within India in 2001 was US$ 22 billion.

• There is considerable government presence in the travel and tourism industry. Each state has a tourism corporation, which typically runs a chain of hotels /motels and operates package tours, while the central government runs the India Tourism Development Corporation. Divestment of these state-run tourism corporations have either already taken place or are in process.

• Incoming foreign tourist arrivals have shown a 6% compounded annual growth rate over the last 10 years. The government has realised the potential and has advanced several incentives to promote infrastructure growth in the tourism sector.

• Current investments are likely to see hotel room capacity increase by 20% over the next three years, with several international hotel chains entering the hotel industry. Similar growth is anticipated in air travel capacity.

Policy Initiatives

• The New Tourism Policy released in May 2002 has outlined the following policy initiatives for the tourism sector:

• The new policy is built around the 7-S Mantra of Swaagat (welcome), Soochanaa (information), Suvidhaa (facilitation), Surakshaa (security), Sahyog (cooperation), Sanrachnaa (infrastructure) and Safaai (cleanliness).

• The new policy envisages making tourism a catalyst in employment generation, wealth creation, development of remote and rural areas, environment preservation and social integration. The policy also aims to spruce up economic growth and promote India’s strengths as a tourism destination that is both safe and at the same time exciting.

• The policy proposes the inclusion of tourism in the concurrent list of the Constitution so as to enable both the central and state governments to participate in the development of the sector.

• No approval is required for foreign equity of up to 51 per cent in tourism projects. Enhanced equity is considered on a case-to-case basis. NRI investment is allowed up to 100%.

• Approvals for Technology agreements in the hotel industry are available on an automatic basis, subject to the fulfilment of certain specified parameters.

• Concession rates on customs duty of 25% for goods that are required for initial setting up, or for substantial expansion of hotels.

• 50% of profits derived by hotels, travel agents and tour operators in foreign exchange are exempt from income tax. The remaining profits are also exempt if reinvested in a tourism related project.

• Approved hotels are entitled to import essential goods relating to the hotel and tourism industry up to the value of 25% of the foreign exchange earned by them in the preceding licensing year. This limit for approved travel agents/tour operators is 10%.

• Hotels located in locations other than the four major metro cities are entitled to 30% deduction from profit, for a ten-year period.

• The expenditure tax has been waived in respect of hotels located in the hills, rural areas, places of pilgrimage or specified place of tourist importance.

http://www.tourismofindia.com



Benefits to customers

Since the economy opened up in 1991, several foreign chains have entered the Indian market, including Hyatt, Four Seasons, Hilton, Regent, Radisson and Holiday Inn. The result is that the quality of service has improved. The overseas players have brought in efficient systems and service standards from Europe and the US. Competition has forced Indian hotel groups to improve their standards. The customer has benefited in many ways. The influx of foreign players has led to major price wars in the industry. In an attempt to woo customers, Indian hotels have reduced their tariffs significantly. According to one hotelier, "India has become a normal market -– like others in the West or in Southeast Asia – with demand and supply determining the price".

Akshay

Looking North-East
India tourism to unlock tribal art, tea tours
AGENCIES
Posted online: Wednesday, July 26, 2006 at 1538 hours IST
Updated: Thursday, July 27, 2006 at 1110 hours IST


LONDON, JULY 26: India tourism has launched a campaign to attract British tourists to the North East region, describing it as a 'paradise unexplored'.

While India attracted a sizeable number of foreign tourists, efforts were being made to ‘show-case’ scenic spots in the North East which had hitherto remained unexplored owing to several factors, including inadequate flights, Vivek Angra, director of India Tourism in the UK told a gathering of tour operators here last night.

Manoj Jalan of Purvi Discoveries demonstrated with the help of slides the different packages available for foreign tourists.

The packages include a heritage tea tour around the tea estates of Assam, visit to exotic tribal art and culture, treks and botanical tours in the eastern Himalaya and wildlife and nature tours.

Another package speaks about "a pilgrimage through the pages of history".

It includes visits to Dibrugarh, the gateway to the 'hidden land' of eastern Arunachal Pradesh and to Dibru-Saikhowa National Park housing Royal Bengal Tiger, leopard, jungle cat and Malayan giant squirrel.

Jalan said "the Mancotta Chang Bungalow located about 20 km from Dubrugarh town is the highpoint of visit to Dibrugarh. This 140 years heritage Chang bungalow built by pioneering Scottish tea planters offers a unique experience of the traditional plantation life."

"Intermingled with local culture, folk dance and music, the Mancotta experience is indeed a life time experience," Jalan said.

He said another star attraction was the Kaziranga National Park - a world heritage site and the oldest park in Assam. It has 65 per cent of the total world's population of the great Indian one-horned rhinoceros and over 50 per cent of the world's population of wild buffaloes and swamp deer respectively along with Asiatic wild elephants, hog deer, jungle cats, tigers and leopards.

Rajat Bagchi, Minister, coordination, in the Indian High Commission said "North Eastern part of India is one of the most scenic places in the country." he suggested that states like Nagaland, Mizoram and Assam had much to offer to foreign tourists by way of their art, culture and scenic beauty.

"North East is the treasure house of India," he said.

Akshay

An old article but would be helpful for some research towards the topic

India opens new tourism doors
By Raja M


When pioneer carmaker Henry Ford's great-grandson recently announced plans to set up a US$500 million ski resort in India, he joined the scramble to cash in on India's booming tourism industry.

The first phase of the project in Himachal Pradesh will have a 250-room hotel, ski-lift and other facilities up and running within three years, entrepreneur Alfred Ford said. When completed, the plan provides for 700 five-star hotel rooms, 300 villas, 150 condos, shops, restaurants and spas, making the Himalayan Ski Village the first of this size in India.

Skiing is just one of the new recreational options opening up for tourists in India. Apart from the usual Taj Mahal and Goa beach attractions, other options such as adventure tourism, eco-tourism and even medical tourism (tourists get medical treatment as part of a vacation) are finding more takers. Apart from Ford's ski resort, tourists can find rock-climbing in Courtallam, eco-tourism in Thenmalai and heli-skiing near Manali.

The Tourism Ministry quotes sources such as Chicago-based iExplore.com (affiliated with the National Geographic and Forbes adventure travel sites) that included India as fifth among its top 10 destinations for 2004. India rocketed up from 36th position in 2003.

The World Travel & Tourism Council says India will emerge as the second-fastest growing tourism economy globally between 2005 and 2014, followed by China. Successful promotions such as the Tourism Ministry's hit "Incredible India" multimedia campaign and the budget air travel boom are reckoned to have contributed to the tourism gold rush.

The Tourism Ministry, headed by firebrand politician Renuka Chowdhury (who on October 27 said she had persuaded the Dalai Lama to act as India's tourism ambassador to promote the country's vast Buddha-related circuit), is eagerly pitching in a $48 million advertising campaign for 2005-06. Its website includes a 20-page safety guideline for adventure sports operations - from mountain biking and bungee jumping to para-sailing. Yet given India's diversity and culture, other ideas to exploit the potential are still in short supply.

Numbers support investments such as Ford's. Despite being visited by major disasters such as the December 26 tsunami, India enjoyed a record 3.37 million foreign tourist arrivals last year and 367 million domestic travelers, contributing to $4.8 billion in earnings, 4.47% of gross domestic product. Leading industry professionals reckon the numbers are only the tip of the potential iceberg. Tourism had a 24% growth in 2004, a leap from 14% growth a year earlier, posting impressive gains despite a dip in tourist arrivals in the rest of the world. Arrivals from Europe and Asia Pacific headed the list.

The terrorism-troubled Jammu and Kashmir in the Himalayas has also enjoyed a travel boom since India and Pakistan brokered a shaky peace two years ago. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Ministry told the media that the earthquake that rocked Pakistan five weeks ago, killing about 90,000, did not affect popular tourist spots.

A senior official said tourism arrivals there increased by 90% in the past 24 months, with 400,000 domestic tourists this year, compared to 225,000 last year. The figure is expected to pass half a million by March 2006, with winter tourists coming from Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore and Malaysia. The winter snow and a ride on the famous houseboats in summer are big draws for the area.

India's increased number of wealthy is helping drive this tourism surge. A National Council for Applied Economic Research (NCAER) survey says the number of millionaires in rural India is increasing. The number of Indian households with an annual income equivalent to $226,449 has grown by 26% since 1995-96 to almost nearly 20,000 in 2001-02, the report says. By 2005-06, the number is expected to more than double, and reach 140,000 by 2010.

"With the economy growing at the pace it is, the consumption story has been hitting the roof," said the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), a Ministry of Commerce and Industry initiative to promote the India brand. "Driven by a young population with access to disposable incomes and easy finance options, the consumer market has been throwing up mind-boggling figures."

Tourism operators now sell heli-skiing packages for the Himalayan regions of Gulmarg, Hanuman Tibba, Rohtang Pass, Deo Tibba and Chanderkhani Pass near Manali, where skiers are flown by helicopter to pristine slopes on snow-draped peaks 14,000 feet high.

Other troubled areas such as northeast India are opening to tourism, with state-owned Indian Airlines offering holiday packages to the violence-torn region. The Indian government has also budgeted $33 million for improving air connectivity in this mostly hilly and underdeveloped territory.

Eco-tourism, growing globally at 5%, is ranked by the World Tourism Organization as the fastest-growing segment in the global tourism industry. The Washington-based International Eco-tourism Society defines eco-tourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people".

Thomas Cook, offering 13 holiday packages to India costing from $560 to $1560, sells an eco-tourism tour of tribes in the eastern Indian state of Orissa starting at $1,300. But surprisingly, India does not yet have an eco-tourism society unlike other Asian countries such as Thailand, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Medical tourism is another sector enjoying booming times, and it is expected to be worth $2.3 billion by 2012, according to a McKinsey consulting report. "We are getting people in the thousands from various parts of the world with most of them coming for bypass surgeries, dental and orthopedic treatment, and even for plastic surgeries," Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss told the media. The Indian government will soon identify multi-specialty hospitals and specialist doctors to serve the rush of overseas patients, he said. This work is to be executed by a new body called the Accreditation Foundation of India.

Akshay

Tourism gets a big boost in India

New Delhi.– Incredible India is being heard alright. Now its being seen as well. Tourism is begining to break new grounds.

In the last two years not only has the number of tourist arrivals swelled, but infrastructure has developed faster and international projection of India as ideal destination become more pronounced. Lonely Planet selected India amongst the top 5 destinations from 167 countries.

India achieved a significant growth in terms of foreign tourist arrivals in the last two years. Tourist arrivals grew 27% and 13% respectively during 2004 and 2005. In numbers, it was 2.73 milion and 3.92 million

Forex eanings also grew by 35% or $3.5 billion and 20% or 5.7 bilion in 2004 and 2005, respectively. World Travel and Tourism Council has estimated that demand for India tourism will grow annually at 8.8% over the next decade.

Revival of tourism in J&K despite sporadic attempts among extremist forces to thwart travellers, a boost to rural tourism, medical tourism, spiritual tourism, etc and bolstering of infrastructure in terms of hotel accomodation, restaurants and roads has helped the cause of Indian tourism in a big way.

Akshay

The best (and worst) destinations for women worldwide
Updated 7/27/2006 11:40 AM ET

By Jessica Labrencis and RaeJean Stokes, SmarterTravel.com Staff


As avid travelers, it's hard for either of us to say which countries are "good" or "bad" for women to visit. We don't want to give any one place an advantage over the next, since so much of traveling is what you put into it. For every horror story, there's one of jubilation and acceptance, and for every cab ride from hell, there's a tale of someone being welcomed home for an authentic local meal.

As a starting place for your trip planning, we've compiled two lists of destinations worldwide. In the first, Jessica Labrencis outlines five places that have a reputation for being women-friendly, while in the second, RaeJean Stokes looks at five regions where women should use extra caution. This is by no means a finite list, as terrible things can happen in safe places all over the world, and vice versa.

You can also ensure a good experience wherever you travel by arming yourself with knowledge. Learn essential phrases in the local language, read about the country's culture and religion, and watch how local women behave. And, most importantly, exercise common sense whether you're in a city or in the countryside, and even when you're in a so-called "safe" destination. For more safety tips, read Contributing Editor Christine Sarkis' feature Ten tips for women traveling alone.

Women-friendly destinations, compiled by Jessica Labrencis

In every part of the world, there are cities and countries that are safe for women to visit. In compiling a list of destinations, I spoke with several women's travel experts about their favorite places, and spotlight some of their recommendations here. Although the destinations I detail are generally considered safe, remember that there are risks wherever you go. Even when you're in a "safe" place, it's important not to let your guard down and always use common sense as you're sightseeing, shopping and dining.

Amsterdam

Most cities in Western Europe are considered safe for women to visit, either alone or with companions. Public transportation is generally safe, English is widely spoken, and European women have many of the same rights as American women. However, the same cities and countries kept coming up in my discussions with women travelers, including Amsterdam.

Evelyn Hannon, editor of Journeywoman.com, a comprehensive online resource for women travelers, says "From experience, I suggest Amsterdam ... English is spoken everywhere. The Dutch are completely pragmatic and believe that women should be independent. I seldom experience male harassment in that city." Phyllis Stoller, president of Women's Travel Club, a tour provider that organizes group trips, agrees with Hannon's assessment and remembers that she felt very comfortable in Amsterdam. Stoller says, "the Dutch are the most angelic people in the world. [Amsterdam] is a very friendly city where everybody speaks English."

SmarterTravel.com Editorial Assistant Kate Hamman took a month-long trip to Europe in the fall of 2005 that included three days in Amsterdam. It defied her dubious expectation of a city that revolved around sex and drugs. Hamman says, "I thought I might be harassed, but I actually found it to be an excellent place to wander around alone ... I wouldn't recommend wandering around the Red Light District alone at night, but there's so many great areas that most people overlook."

Ireland

Ireland is another destination that came up again and again in my conversations about safe destinations for women. It is known for its friendly people, beautiful countryside, and pubs that keep the Guinness flowing. When asked about women-friendly countries, travel expert Pauline Frommer says, "Ireland, absolutely. [It is] a very welcoming destination where everyone is really made to feel like family and the pubs are friendly, non-threatening places to party." She goes on to recommend Ireland's many family-owned B&Bs that allow travelers to feel part of the local culture. B&Bs are also good for meeting locals and other travelers who can share insights about where to go for a good meal, or off-the-beaten-path attractions to visit.

SmarterTravel Associate Editor Molly Feltner agrees with Frommer. In her experience, "Irish people, both men and women, are very gregarious, and the women feel no need to edit themselves or be quiet in the presence of men. The women also feel very comfortable initiating conversation with men in pubs and asking them to go on dates. There also isn't a stigma attached to women drinking." Unlike in some countries where women consuming alcohol is taboo, it's generally safe to have a beer in a pub in Ireland without attracting unwanted attention or feeling like a target.

Costa Rica

Much of Latin America has a bad reputation as being unsafe for women, with tales of "forward" men, pick-pocketing, and harassment prevalent. However, Costa Rica has been increasingly popular with Americans, and it's considered one of the safest Latin American destinations, particularly outside of San Jose, the capital.

Editor-in-Chief of travelgirl magazine, Stephanie Oswald, recommends Costa Rica based on two visits to the country. Before she and a girlfriend left for Costa Rica on one of her trips, other friends were concerned about the two women traveling without other companions. But the trip went smoothly, with Oswald and her friend driving both the city streets of Quepos and unpaved, mountainous roads to Monteverde, without incident.

Oswald says that she found the locals to be friendly, and had a particularly positive experience that might have turned out differently in another country. At a restroom stop, Oswald left her wallet behind, complete with at least $100 and her passport. When she contacted the U.S. Embassy, the wallet had already been returned and the person who returned it also included a small handcrafted wall hanging. "I have it hanging in my kitchen to remind me of how nice the people are," Oswald says.

Costa Ricans have adopted the motto "pura vida" or "pure life," which has various meanings, but roughly translates to "living the good life." Many locals with this attitude seem very laid-back, and go out of their way to help visitors. In April 2005, I had several positive experiences with locals, and one in particular has stayed in my memory. In La Fortuna, as my friend and I descended a steep hill on a hot day, a man in a pick-up truck pulled over and offered us a ride. In the U.S., I never would have accepted the ride, but I felt so safe in Costa Rica that I hopped in. The man dropped us off a few blocks from our hotel with a wave.

Costa Rica is also a good destination for women on a budget. Comfortable, safe accommodations are available for less than $40 per night, and Costa Rica has plenty of ecotourism and luxury accommodations as well. Shared vans shuttle small groups of tourists around the country so you don't have to rely on public buses or a rental car.

India

India has been popular with backpackers for years, but now both business and leisure travel to India is beginning to boom. U.S. carriers are consistently adding service to India, and low-cost carriers within the country have sprouted up to make traveling long distances easier.

India is not for the faint of heart—there are crowded, dirty and poverty-stricken areas mixed in with the beauty of places like the Taj Mahal. Many travelers who have been refer to the difficulties and rewards of visiting India when they say, "Once you've been to India, you can travel anywhere." This can be intimidating for a woman who hasn't been there. But, more than one female traveler I spoke with recommended the country as a destination where women can feel safe, and with some careful research or the help of a knowledgeable travel agent, a trip to India can be the experience of a lifetime.

Phyllis Stoller of the Women's Travel Club immediately recommended India when thinking about women-friendly places she's visited. She described several "great experiences with locals," including sharing photos of her baby with local women, who were "so appreciative, so nice." Stoller also noted that in India, women are generally respected, and may hold important jobs in the tourism industry, such as managing hotels or manning the front desk. And, many locals, particularly in popular tourist areas, speak English.

Travelgirl's Stephanie Oswald says that "people think [India] is so far away and underdeveloped, but in the last four years, it's become extremely luxurious." According to Oswald, the safest way to experience India is to work beforehand with a tour operator or travel agent specializing in India who can recommend local drivers and hotels. Stoller and Oswald both suggest saying in three- or four-star hotels for safety's sake.

Oswald mentioned that as a blond American woman traveling alone, she did attract attention. Indian tourists wanted to have their photos taken with her, an experience she described as jarring but understandable. Vendors in markets were also aggressive in selling their goods, but Oswald says, "it wasn't that I was singled out because I was a woman, or an American ... They were just doing their jobs."

Vietnam

In 2005, Vietnam was named one of the world's safest countries by Aon, a large insurance broker. In the past, Vietnam was considered an off-beat alternative to Thailand, but as more travelers discover the charms of Southeast Asia, it is becoming a popular destination in its own right.

Viet Value Travel, a tour provider specializing in Vietnam, says that "women and independent travelers have found it relatively hassle-free and easy to travel throughout the country." As more English-speaking tourists explore the country, its tourism infrastructure has become more developed. Vietnam tourism was the topic of a BBC News article in which Claire Boobbyer, a writer for Footprints Travel Guides, says "[The Vietnamese] have a good background in the service industry, and they know what service means ... There is a good range of services for tourists, from high-class hotels to backpacker's hostels. And I was amazed for what you could get on a budget."

Susan Cortell of Montauk, New York, traveled to Vietnam in May on a Gutsy Women Travel tour (in conjunction with Women's Sacred Travel tours) that focused on sightseeing and shopping, and included emphasis on wellness (massage) and the metaphysical (a Buddhist cleansing ceremony).

When asked about her experiences in Vietnam, Cortell says "I loved Vietnam ... I not only felt safe there, but very, very welcomed. Especially in Hanoi and Hoi An." Cortell also notes that she appreciated how far her dollars went in Vietnam. She remembers paying $3 per person for a three-course dinner in Hoi An, and buying silk scarves for less than $5. In fact, Cortell says "a group of us want to go back just for the shopping, as the savings will pay for the trip."

Destinations where women need more caution, compiled by RaeJean Stokes

The three weeks I spent in Turkey with my fiance were the best vacation either us had ever taken. We found the people gracious, the food amazing, the culture fascinating, and the country overall a very hospitable place for budget travel. But, when I first ventured out on my own one morning to get breakfast in Istanbul, I felt the men staring at me. I noticed some women were veiled. I was not. Most of the women had on long pants. I did not. I never felt threatened, but I did feel that I was on display for all the local men drinking their morning tea.

For a lot of women, this kind of encounter is enough to deter them from traveling to some of Earth's most interesting places. Don't let it be so for you. Here is some advice, taken from personal experience and the experience of other women travelers, about how to feel more secure in destinations where taking a few extra precautions is a good idea.

Middle East and Northern Africa

Before traveling to the Middle East or Northern Africa (or anywhere, for that matter), do your thorough research on the culture and society you'll be encountering. Religion in particular is a big part of daily life in many of these countries, so learn about it. You'll not only be saving yourself potential embarrassment by committing a faux-pas (such as walking into a mosque with bare shoulders), but you'll also get more out of your trip.

In Turkey, for example, you'll see summer tourists from across the Middle East flock to Istanbul. As such, you're likely to see many women in full hijab, or at the very least covered discreetly by veils, long shirts, and flowing pants. No one will tell you that you have to follow suit, but if you're planning a trip, consider these details when you're packing. Leave the tank tops and miniskirts at home.

Caroline Chalouhi, Coordinator of International Students at the American University of Beirut in Lebanon, says, "Respect for local tradition and culture on the part of the woman traveler is very important. Of course, this doesn't mean that female travelers shouldn't exercise caution. [In Beruit], like any big city in the world, women should use common sense, street smarts, not look strange men straight in the eye, not walk down dark deserted streets and always ignore cat calls and advances."

The laws may also be different than you expect. For example, the State Department warns: "In many Islamic countries, even those that give tourist visas and do not require sponsorship, a woman needs the permission of her husband, and children need the permission of their father, to leave the country. If you travel or allow your children to travel, be aware of the laws of the country you plan to visit. Once overseas, you are subject to the laws of the country where you are; U.S. law cannot protect you." In both Iran and Lebanon, there is little the U.S. government can do to assist an American woman married to a local man who wants to leave the country without her husband's permission.

The Mediterranean Coast

"Around 4:00 a.m. I woke up and was startled to see that someone was sitting at the end of my bed. I didn't have my glasses on, it was dark, and I am blind as a bat. I figured that maybe the train [from Rome to Naples] had filled up and the poor guy had no where else to go. So I kept trying to scrunch my legs up more and more to give him room but he kept on touching my feet. Then I realized, in my sleepy state, that he was giving me a foot massage. I thought, maybe I am imagining this and then he started to unzip my sleeping bag. I woke up my friend and we both started screaming at him. The only word he knew was, "Problem? Problem?" and we just shouted, "Yes!"

Unfortunately, stories about overly aggressive male suitors, courtesy of Timber Sorochynskyi of Edmond, Oklahoma, who traveled to Italy with a friend, are not uncommon from women traveling along the Mediterranean. Another friend who works a coordinator for international exchange programs was traveling in Greece when she met a friendly, older married man who offered to take her to some off-the-beaten path sights. Younger at the time, and "more naive", she accepted. Nothing happened; in fact she said she had a great time. However, she adds, "Just when I thought everything was cool, on the way back, he stopped the car and put his hand on my leg and straight-out asked for sex. I said no, and he accepted that, and we drove back in silence."

Older and wiser, she now realizes the mistake she made. "I would advise that any woman traveling [in the Mediterranean] be on her guard about [accepting invitations]."

The United States

Nary a woman has not faced sexual harassment in this country. But American women tend to falsely believe that we're safer in our own country than we are overseas. If anything, this is only true because most of the time we speak the same language and share a common culture. We think we understand each other and therefore there is less fear of the unknown.

According to an FBI report, nearly 100,000 rapes are reported in the U.S. every year. While most sexual violence is attempted by friends or acquaintances, a large portion of crime is still random. Some of this is violent, and it can affect anyone, including the female traveler.

Don't assume that just because your destination is Denver, Miami, or Los Angeles that you can let your guard down. Women still need to be aware while traveling domestically. Don't text message or chat incessantly on your cellphone in public because you won't know what's going on around you. Ask the locals about which areas to avoid, and avoid them. Sometimes certain neighborhoods can get a bad reputation for the wrong reasons, but your vacation is not the time you should be seeking to right these wrongs. If you go anywhere alone at night, make sure it's well lit and well traveled. And above all, follow your instincts. Armed with common sense and some simple street smarts, you're less likely to be a target.

Latin America and the Caribbean

American women traveling south of the border, whether to the Caribbean, Mexico, or other Latin American countries, should prepare themselves for attention. Cat-calling, groping, and staring are all common complaints.

Occasionally however, it's not all so benign. One traveler, who preferred not be identified, found the attention she got in Jamaica to be relentless. While exploring the island, she was continuously propositioned and asked if she wanted to buy drugs. "Nearly every time I went into a shop and drifted from my companion to browse, some man would try to corner and harass me."

Her advice for women traveling south? "Go out and do excursions with a group from your resort and stick together. If you are going on an independent excursion, like a horseback ride or snorkeling trip, ask the company if anyone else signed up for it. And never assume that women in groups means power. Being by yourself is definitely the worst, but traveling with another woman or two still attracts attention in terms of harassment."

However, you can have a safe visit to the Caribbean or Latin America by being aware of the issues and using some common sense. Ignoring aggressive men and moving on, preferably into a well-lit area with lots of other people, is a good idea. Do your best to avoid compromising situations in the first place. At the very least, travel in pairs, don't wander around unknown areas at night, and avoid excessive drinking. It goes without saying that alcohol impairs judgment.

The states of the former U.S.S.R.

Women traveling to Russia and the states of the former U.S.S.R. may not encounter the same aggressive cat-calling they might find in the Mediterranean, but other safety issues warrant precaution. Public transportation needs a special category all its own in this respect, and is probably the one place American women need to exercise the most caution. While living in Ukraine and traveling throughout the region, I heard horror stories about attempted sexual assaults on trains, and was the victim of more unwanted touching than I care to remember.

Throughout the states of the former U.S.S.R., the smile most Americans effortlessly put forth may cause you trouble. Culturally, the smile in former Soviet countries has come to mean that you're sly, crazy, or you're interested in the person at whom you're smiling. This may stem from the repressive nature of the former Soviet regime. It's hard to look stoic and indifferent, but I recommend practicing your best emotionless face in preparation for a trip to the region.

Lastly, a trick that sometimes works to discourage unwanted attention is slipping a simple gold band on your right ring finger. Putting it on your left hand, like in the U.S., will only signify widowhood, and hence availability. Whenever I saw men approaching me on the trains, I turned my grandmother's ring around so that only the band showed and pretended that I was married.

Akshay

OVERSEAS MARKETING MEET ON INDIAN TOURISM BEGINS

SMT. AMBIKA SONI UNDERLINES NEED FOR GREATER INTER-MINISTERIAL COORDINATION

The Minister of Tourism & Culture, Smt. Ambika Soni has underlined the need for better coordination between the Ministries of External Affairs, Home Affairs, Civil Aviation so as to smoothen various procedures relating to grant of visa and clearances etc. to foreign tourists desiring to visit India. Inaugurating the 2-day Meet on Overseas Marketing of Indian Tourism, here today, Smt. Soni said that very often these are the constraints that result in avoidable delays in grant of visa and other necessary clearances to tour operators for bringing foreign tourists to India on chartered flights etc. and affect the growth of Indian tourism.

Smt. Soni said that Tourism is not merely a commercial activity. We have to provide the tourists a lifetime experience of visiting India in a manner so that he is induced to come again and again. If somebody has visited the Taj and other cultural monuments in his first visit, let him be attracted to come again for experiencing other tourists circuits like the Buddhist Circuit, Tea Garden Tourism, Rural Tourism, Adventure Tourism and so on. For this it is necessary that we provide clean room, clean water, improve cleanliness by removing garbage etc. which is often seen in the vicinity of cultural monuments. We have to provide for budget hotels so that the middle class segment of tourists can be attracted in a big way.

Underlining the need for reviewing the functioning of overseas marketing offices of the Indian tourism, Smt. Soni said that we may have to open some more offices or relocate some other keeping in view the emerging tourism industry. She called upon the Overseas Tourist Offices to recognize that the modern day tourist very often does not come to the Tourist office for information and booking etc. rather he prefers to do this from the Internet. etc. As such we have to be more imaginative and pro-active besides being focused on the needs, aspirations and requirements of the prospective tourists. ‘Those who have the responsibility of promoting India have to do it in a spirit of mission and with a passion’ so that more and more people are attracted towards India, she added

Smt. Soni released a report on the Incredible India Campaign-2005-06 on this occasion. A number of promotional films produced by BBC and CNN on different aspects of Indian Culture & Tourism like Heritage India, Contemporary India, India as a Golfing Destination, India as an Ayurvedic Destination, India as a Medical Tourism Destination etc. were also released by the Minister in the Inaugural session.

Earlier, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Shri Ashok Kumar Mishra said that the rate of growth in tourism sector has been commendable in the last few years as tourism accounts for roughly 6% of the GDP and about 9% of the total employment. Nevertheless, in volume terms we are way behind. Whereas a small city like Macau with 4.5 lakh of population is handling 17.5 million tourists, our country with such a great variety of tourism products received only 3.92 million tourists last year, he added.

Shri Mishra said that since the private sector is the driver of real growth in the Hospitality and Travel industry, our strategy should be to function as a facilitator for them to the extent that we extend support both to the overseas and domestic tour operators, arrange interface between the two. We are contemplating to broad base the overseas brochure and advertisement support scheme. We propose to create a revolving fund for this purpose. The Ministry also proposes to increase the allocation under market development assistance scheme to enable larger number of domestic tour operators and hoteliers to take part in travel marts, road shows abroad so that we may realize our aim of achieving an overall target of 25% growth in Tourism sector, he said.

Apart from Heads of Overseas offices of India Tourism, various stakeholders in travel industry are participating in the 2-day Meet, which has been organized by the Ministry of Tourism. A number of Interactive Sessions and Presentations by representatives of Central/State Governments and members of the Travel Industry are being held with a view to getting inputs and perspective on international tourism trends and marketing strategies vis-à-vis India. There will also be country/regional presentations by the Overseas officers of Indian Tourism coming from places like Sydney, Tokyo, London, New York, Paris, Frankfurt, Milan, Dubai and various other places highlighting the potential and current travel trends in certain important and emerging overseas markets and proposed strategies for further growth.

AK/JA

Akshay

India's earnings from foreign tourism doubles in three years

New Delhi, July 26. (PTI): Reflective of India's growing popularity as a tourist destination, the country's earnings from foreign tourists has almost doubled between 2002 and 2005.

The foreign exchange earnings from inbound tourism, estimated at 2923 million dollars (approx 13153.5 crore) in 2002 rose to 5731 million dollars (approx 25789.5 crore) in 2005, showing a growth of 96 per cent in three years time, Union Tourism and Culture Minister Ambika Soni told Rajya Sabha in reply to a question.

Soni said her Ministry has taken several initiatives for promoting arrivals of foreign tourists and increasing earnings from tourism that include the 'Incredible India' campaign, creation of world class collaterals, centralised electronic media campaign, focusing on growth of hotel infrastructure and direct cooperative marketing with airlines, tour operators and wholesalers overseas.

Orissa: The Centre has identified the Bhubaneshwar-Dhauli-Puri-Konark circuit in Orissa for development as a major tourist draw.

Soni said the Government has sanctioned Rs 720.09 lakh during 2005-06 for integrated development of the circuit.

In reply to another question, the Minister said MoUs have been signed between the Orissa Government and three hotel companies for setting up star hotels in the state.

Star hotels are proposed to be set up in places like Bhubaneshwar, Puri, Konark, Paradeep, Duburi, Jharsuguda, Satapda and Barakul within three years.

Soni also told the House that her Ministry had prepared a 20-year perspective tourism plan for Orissa, which has been sent to the State Government for their guidance.

Akshay

ESTABLISHMENT OF GURUKULS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL TOURISM

Lok Sabha

The Minister of Tourism & Culture, Smt. Ambika Soni told the Lok Sabha today that the Government has decided to establish Gurukul at the sites identified for development of Rural Tourism product with the assistance of Ministry of tourism for spreading the attributes of Indian Art and Culture within and outside the country, thereby enabling the visitor to gain first hand experience of diverse art and craft skills at the various rural tourism sites and generating further tourist arrivals.

The Minister further informed that the names of the proposed Gurukul sites, where various arts and artists to be promoted, to get the benefit out of the next tourist season, are as under:-

· Pochampali (Nalgonda Distt, Andhra Pradesh)

· Raghurajpur (Puri Distt., Orissa)

· Hodka (Kachchh District, Gujarat)

· Pranpur (Ashok Nagar Distt., M.P.)

· Aranmula (Pathanamthitta distt., Kerala)

The Minister added that the promotion of rural tourism can lead to increased tourist arrivals to rural sites and in the process can strengthen rural livelihoods including benefit to the youth, through income from visitor handling services apart from income through art and craft activities.

This information was given by the Minister in reply to a question by Shri K.S. Rao.

AK/JA

Akshay

SCHEME FOR PROMOTION OF TOURISM IN NE STATES

Lok Sabha

The Minister of Tourism & Culture, Smt. Ambika Soni told the Lok Sabha today that Development & Promotion of tourism is primarily the responsibility of the State Government/Union Territory. However, in order to give boost to tourism in the North Eastern States, Central Financial Assistance amount to Rs.12709.57 lakhs has been sanctioned by the Government of India for tourism infrastructure development during the financial year 2005-06. In addition, Ministry of Tourism has produced collaterals and promoted and marketed North-East as a tourism destination through print and electronic media and also by enabling them to participate in international travel marts.

Acknowledging that the “Inner Line Permit” is a hurdle in the development of tourism industry in North East, Smt. Soni said that the ‘Inner Line Permit’ falls within the purview of the State Government and it is enforced or relaxed by them based on the prevalent security scenario, local needs and tourism trends. No time frame has been drawn out by the State Governments regarding abolishing this permit, she added.

The Minister further said that the Government is encouraging Private sector participation is encouraged in promotion of different segments of tourism sector.

This information was given by the Minister in reply to a question by Prof. Vijay Kumar Malhotra, Shri Mohan Rawale and Shri Chandra Mani Tripathi.

AK/JA

Akshay

Indian Ministry of Tourism
Two-day overseas marketing reviews Indian tourism industry
Thursday, June 29, 2006

A 2-day meet on Overseas Marketing of Indian tourism began at New Delhi under the aegis of Ministry of Tourism. Apart from Heads of Overseas offices of India Tourism, various stakeholders in travel industry participate in the 2-day Meet and will have a review of various marketing strategies and action plans for promotion of Indian tourism being pursued in various overseas markets.

The Meet also has Interactive Sessions and Presentations by representatives of Central/State Governments and members of the Travel Industry. Such Interactive Sessions will help in getting inputs and perspective on international tourism trends and marketing strategies vis-a-vis India.

The Meet inaugurated by the Minister of Tourism & Culture, Smt. Ambika Soni. The inaugural session also marked the release of a report on the Incredible India Campaign-2005-06 together with release of a number of films produced by BBC and CNN on different aspects of Indian Culture & Tourism like Heritage India, Contemporary India, India as a Golfing Destination, India as an Ayurvedic Destination, India as a Medical Tourism Destination etc.

Furthermore, the Meet has a number of sessions and panel discussions devoted to issues like `Human Resource Development & Capacity Building for Tourism Growth’, `Civil Aviation as a Catalyst for Tourism growth’, `New Initiatives by the Railways’, `Infrastrcuture Initiatives’, `Marketing India on the World Wide Web’, `Rural Tourism’ etc.

There are also country/regional presentations by the Overseas officers of Indian Tourism coming from places like Sydney, Tokyo, London, New York, Paris, Frankfurt, Milan, Dubai and various other places. These presentations will highlight the potential and current travel trends in certain important and emerging overseas markets, the activities of the overseas offices and proposed strategies for further growth.

Akshay

YEAR 2007 TO BE OBSERVED AS INDIA-JAPAN TOURISM YEAR

JAPANESE TRANSPORT MINISTER DISCUSSES IMPLEMENTATION PLAN WITH SMT. AMBIKA SONI


The Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of Japan, Mr. Kazuo Kitagawa called on the tourism & Culture Minister, Smt. Ambika Soni, here, today.

The two Ministers discussed the plan for observance of the year 2007 as India-Japan Friendship and Exchange Year. This is one of the key element of the eight-fold initiative for strengthening India-Japan Global Partnership as agreed to by the two Prime Ministers during the visit of Japanese Prime Minister, Mr. Koizumi to India in April, last year. The Plan aims at strengthening of people-to-people contacts between India and Japan through promotion of tourism and is being drawn in consultation with the Japan Foundation. It envisages introduction of a number of package tours to be implemented through greater cooperation and exchanges between the tour operators of India and Japan. Exhibition of Indian culture in Japan and vice versa and exchange of artists between the two countries are also being planned.

Earlier, welcoming Mr. Kitagawa, Smt. Soni said that India attaches high priority to strengthening relations with Japan. She recalled the visit of Prime Minister Koizumi to India last year and conveyed her deep appreciation for the personal commitment and contribution that Mr. Kitagawa himself is making in strengthening partnership and cooperation between the two countries.

Mr. Kitagawa said that there is great degree of interest among Japanese people to visit India. Mr. Kitagawa underlined the steps taken by his country to make its visa regime tourist friendly. Smt. Soni also appraised Mr. Kitagawa about the initiatives taken by her Ministry with the M/o Home Affairs to ensure greater visa facilitation to tourists.

The need for enhancing air connectivity between India and Japan was also underlined during the discussions.

The meeting lasted for about half an hour.

AK/JA