Goa Tourism takes the spotlight at the TT Awards 2024, celebrated for its pioneering efforts in regenerative tourism and elevating the travel experience.
India’s premier travel, hospitality, and aviation magazine, Today’s Traveller, celebrated its 27th anniversary with an extraordinary event at the iconic Taj Palace, in New Delhi. The event was a grand celebration of visionary leadership, featuring a Summit, the highly anticipated cover launch of the Collector’s Edition of “Today’s Traveller Magazine” titled “Strategists of Success,” and the distinguished Annual Today’s Traveller Awards.
Today’s Traveller Summit – Leadership Discussions
To commemorate its 27th anniversary, Today’s Traveller hosted a grand Summit at the Taj Palace, New Delhi. This prestigious event proved to be a landmark occasion in the travel and tourism calendar, drawing the industry’s most influential figures—from top executives and government officials to renowned travel influencers and celebrities.
The Leadership Discussions began with a Curtain-raiser Video by Goa Tourism. This compelling video presentation highlighted Goa’s diverse tourism offerings, emphasizing the state’s commitment to restoring and renewing its natural resources while preserving and enriching its cultural and social heritage.
The captivating video on Goa effortlessly brought to life the state’s vibrant cultural attractions, showcasing everything from its rich heritage sites to its bustling local markets. The video also highlighted Goa’s forward-thinking regenerative tourism initiatives, which are paving the way for sustainable travel experiences that respect and preserve the region’s natural beauty.
Adding to the allure, viewers are taken on a visual journey through Goa’s dynamic festivals, where tradition meets celebration, creating unforgettable moments. The video also spotlighted the exhilarating water sports that make Goa a haven for adventure seekers, from parasailing over azure waters to diving into the depths of its aquatic wonders. This visual narrative was a perfect blend of culture, sustainability, and thrill, offering a comprehensive glimpse into what makes Goa a must-visit destination.
In her welcome speech, Kamal Gill, Editor of Today’s Traveller, remarked, “Today’s Traveller Summit looks to explore new partnerships and leverage collective influence, steering the industry towards a trajectory of shared success with fellow industry leaders. The Summit encourages open dialogue, and as leaders in hospitality and tourism align their visions and resources, they set the stage for groundbreaking initiatives. I’m confident that the insights shared today will contribute to the future of our industries and inspire us all to think bigger and bolder.”
The ceremonial lamp was lit, followed by the grand cover launch of the Today’s Traveller Collector’s Edition 2024 “Strategists of Success” by the Chief Guest, Hon’ble Justice Shri Kurian Joseph, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court, and Judge of Kerala High Court; Mr V K Duggal, Former Governor of Manipur & Mizoram: Mr Subhash Goyal industry doyen and former President IATO, Mr Kewal Gill, Chairman Gill India Group, Ms Kamal Gill, Executive Editor and Managing Director Today’s Traveller and Gill India Group,
Hon’ble Justice Shri Kurian Joseph addressed the audience, reflecting on the bright future of the tourism and hospitality industry, and later presented the prestigious 16th Annual Today’s Traveller Awards to this year’s outstanding achievers.
Today’s Traveller Awards and Recognitions for Goa Tourism
In a moment of great pride for Goa, the prestigious “Excellence in Tourism Leadership” award was conferred upon Hon’ble Shri Rohan Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa by Chief Guest, Hon’ble Justice Shri Kurian Joseph, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court, and Judge of Kerala High Court.
This accolade honours Shri Rohan Khaunte for his visionary leadership in positioning Goa as a premier global tourism destination and his pioneering contributions to showcasing the state’s diverse attractions, including Regenerative Tourism. His focus on sustainable tourism practices has established a benchmark, propelling Goa to the forefront of this critical sector.
On the occasion of Goa’s 62nd Liberation anniversary, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte launched India’s first regenerative tourism model, a groundbreaking initiative centred around four key pillars: spirituality, indigeneity, civilization, cultural nationalism, and conscious tourism.
Kamal Gill, Executive Editor and Managing Director, Today’s Traveller & Gill India Group said, “Congratulations to Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism Goa, for his exemplary work in leading by example and setting new benchmarks in promoting Regenerative Tourism. Your visionary leadership and commitment to sustainable tourism practices have rightfully earned you the recognition of Excellence in Tourism Leadership. Your efforts not only pave the way for a brighter future for Goa but also inspire others to follow in your footsteps.”
Further elevating its list of accolades, Goa Tourism received the Today’s Traveller Award 2024 for Best State for Regenerative Tourism in the Domestic Tourism category.
The award was proudly accepted by Mr Vikas S. Kamble, GCS, Deputy Resident Commissioner, Government of Goa. Goa goes beyond sustainability by actively enhancing and restoring ecosystems, communities, and cultures. Its regenerative approach leaves a lasting positive impact, enriching the well-being of destinations and fostering resilience by revitalizing natural and cultural assets for future generations.
These distinguished awards were presented during the Today’s Traveller 27th Anniversary Celebrations and Awards, held at the iconic Taj Palace, New Delhi, on Friday, 23 August 2024. The event, a pinnacle of recognition within the corporate, hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors, was graced by the esteemed Chief Guest, Hon’ble Justice Shri Kurian Joseph, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court, and Judge of Kerala High Court. The award presentations were the highlight of the evening.
This year’s ceremony also marked the launch of the Collector’s Issue of Today’s Traveller Magazine, aptly titled Strategists of Success. The unveiling of the cover and the award presentations were the crowning moments of the evening, led by Hon’ble Justice Shri Kurian Joseph.
The event celebrated the exceptional contributions of leaders who are shaping the future of tourism in India, with Goa Tourism emerging as a beacon of sustainable and regenerative tourism practices.
The Today’s Traveller Summit
The Today’s Traveller Summit served as a platform to discuss the future of travel and tourism, with a sharp focus on innovation, sustainability, and the evolving dynamics of the global travel economy. Attendees had the unique opportunity to participate in insightful panel discussions, listen to keynote speeches from industry leaders, and engage in networking sessions that fostered collaboration and partnership.
The Summit featured a series of impactful panel discussions and addresses by industry leaders beginning with a compelling session titled “Trailblazers at the Table: Young Turks Envision the Future,” where some of the brightest minds in the hospitality industry came together to share their visions for the future.
The panel featured industry leaders such as Mr Atul Jain, Chief Operating Officer, Best Western Hotels & Resorts; Mr Hoshang Garivala, Country General Manager, The Ascott Limited; and Mr Anupam Dutta, Chief Acquisition Officer, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited & Board Member – Nature Trails. Moderated by the astute Mr Rattan Keswani, Consultant and Author and Erstwhile Dep Managing Director, Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd and President Trident Hotels, the discussion was both engaging and forward-thinking, offering insights into the strategies that will drive the industry forward.
Mr. Dimitris Manikis, President, EMEA Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, delivered a thought-provoking address on “Future-ready Hospitality: Workforce Challenges and Gen Alpha” focussing on the workforce challenges posed by the arrival of Gen Alpha. His insights set the stage for a lively discussion on “Building Brand Loyalty” and driving growth in an increasingly competitive market.
The panel, which included Mr Dimitris Manikis, President, EMEA Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Mr Parveen Chander Kumar, Executive Vice President – Sales & Marketing, Indian Hotel Company Limited. The session, moderated by the veteran entrepreneur Mr Sudhir Gupta, Chief Executive, TLC Relationship Management explored the evolving expectations of modern consumers and the strategies needed to meet them.
Gill India Concepts Pvt. Ltd. at Today’s Travellers Awards 2024
In a brilliant Fireside Chat, industry veterans Mr K B Kachru, Chairman, Radisson Hotel Group, and Mr Rahul Pandit, President & Executive Director – Hospitality, Valor Estate, delved into the long-term goals and aspirations for India’s tourism and hospitality sectors. Their discussion offered a forward-looking perspective on what the industry might look like in 2047, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Another standout session, Seizing Opportunities: The Next Wave of Investments in Hospitality and Tourism, featured insights from visionaries like Mr. Snehdeep Aggarwal, Founder and Chairman, Bhartiya Group, and Mr. Sanjay Saraf, Chairman, Saraf Group. Moderated by the charismatic Mr. Rajiv Kaul, Founder, Kaul Advisory, the panel explored the new wave of investment opportunities within the industry, emphasizing the critical role that strategic investment will play in shaping the future.
Capping off the day was the electrifying panel, “Leadership Makeover: The Rise of Development Leaders in Hospitality Companies,” where distinguished industry leaders such as Mr Anil Chadha, Divisional Chief Executive, ITC Hotels; Mr Mohit Nirula, Chief Operating Officer, The Oberoi Hotels; Mr Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, IHG; Mr Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President (ASVP), South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group and Mr Zubin Saxena, Senior Vice President & Regional Head, South Asia, Hilton shared their insights on the evolving role of leadership in hospitality.
The stand-out session, moderated by the seasoned specialist Mr Mandeep S. Lamba, President, South Asia, HVS, provided a nuanced discussion on how development leaders are reshaping the industry, setting new standards for growth and innovation.
The Prestigious Annual Today’s Traveller Awards 2024
The highly anticipated presentation of the prestigious 16th Annual Today’s Traveller Awards, recognized this year’s outstanding achievers in the fields of travel, tourism, aviation, hospitality, and allied industries. These awards celebrate excellence and innovation, honouring individuals and organizations that have made remarkable contributions to their respective sectors.
The awards were presented by the Chief Guest, Hon’ble Justice Shri Kurian Joseph, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India and Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court & Judge of Kerala High Court, in a ceremony that underscored the importance of leadership, vision, and dedication in driving the industry forward. The winners were celebrated for their exemplary achievements, setting new benchmarks for the future of the industry.
An Unforgettable Celebration Night
The evening culminated in a gala networking session, cocktails, and a dinner celebrating the 27th anniversary of Today’s Traveller. The event was flawlessly curated by the team at OptiMICE Events, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for all attendees.
In closing, Kamal Gill, Executive Editor and Managing Director expressed her gratitude, stating, “This evening has been a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. I am deeply thankful to all our partners, esteemed guests, and the incredible team behind Today’s Traveller for making our 27th-anniversary celebrations truly memorable. As we look to the future, we remain committed to fostering growth, celebrating leadership, and continuing our journey of excellence in the travel and hospitality industry.”
She added, “I would like to express my deep sense of gratitude to our Partners for the 27th Anniversary Celebrations of Today’s Traveller: Summit and Anniversary Gold Partner: Goa Tourism; State Partner: Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board; Gold Partner Delhi Tourism; Real Estate Partner: Sobha Limited, and Gifting Partner: SoulTree.”
Today’s Traveller Collector’s Issue: Strategists of Success
Passion is a powerful driving force that can inspire and influence those around us. In times of adversity, emerging leaders have risen to the occasion and significantly impacted various industries. Their unwavering dedication to success sets them apart and forms the foundation of their achievements. The theme of Today’s Traveller Collector’s Edition 2024 will encapsulate the relentless pursuit of excellence, strategic adaptability, and redefinition of the success of brands and leaders.
These visionaries, with their innovative strategies and forward-thinking approaches, not only drive their companies to unparalleled heights but also contribute significantly to global welfare. This Collector’s Edition of Today’s Traveller aptly titled, “Strategists of Success” explores how these corporate titans are leading by example, particularly through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities and welfare missions, which have become benchmarks of corporate excellence.
About Today’s Traveller
Today’s Traveller is India’s only consumer travel magazine that consistently produces the highest quality content for the most influential audiences. With over 26 years of service, the magazine has become a trusted source for up-to-date domain knowledge and quality content marketing, reaching a diverse readership that includes key decision-makers, high-net-worth individuals, and frequent travellers.
Today’s Traveller is the only travel magazine to bag the PATA Gold Award four times and the Marriott Golden Circle Award for Editorial Excellence. Over the years, content, readership, and high-quality production have grown tremendously, backed by a well-targeted distribution.
Targeted Readership: Reaches the mass consumer market, key decision-makers, upmarket leisure and family travellers, High-net-worth individuals and frequent travellers, corporations who buy business travel and MICE, wedding planners, Adventure travellers, Millennials, Travel agents and tour operators (inbound, outbound, and domestic).
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