A Study On Tourism Travel Operations Management Of

Neema Tours And Travels

PROJECT REPORT

Submitted by

SHERYL ANGELINE REBECCA M

Reg No: 239207230031

Under the guidance of

Asst.Prof.Madhankumar
(Airline & Airport Management)

In the partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of

M.B.A (Airline & Airport Management)

DEPARTMENT OF MBA (Airline & Airport Management)

NEHRU COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS AND APPLIED SCIENCES

COIMBATORE – 08

2023-2025
 CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the project report entitled “A Study On Tourism Travel
Management Of Neema Tours And Travels” is a Bonafide record work done by
SHERYL ANGELINE REBECCA M, register no: 2392072300031 in the
partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of M.B.A (Airline & Airport
Management).

DEAN & DIRECTOR SUPERVISOR

Dr.P.R.Balaji Asst.Prof.Madhankumar
Dean & Assistant Professor
Director MBA (A&AM) - NCAAS
NCAAS

Submitted for Viva voice Examination held on

INTERNAL EXAMINER EXTERNAL

EXAMINER
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First of all, I immensely and whole-heartedly thank Dr.P.R.Balaji, Dean &

Director, NCA&AS, and Prof.E.Mallika, HOD - MBA(A&AM) for giving me
this opportunity and approval to do my project work.

With deep sense of gratitude, I extend our earnest and sincere thanks to my
guide Asst.Prof.Madhankumar, MBA (A&AM) for his kind guidance and
encouragement for completing my project successfully.

At this pleasing moment of having successfully completed my project, I wish to

express my sincere thanks to all My Faculty Members of MBA Airline &
Airport management for their valuable suggestions and support.

I am externally grateful to MY FAMILY for the constant support and I am

thankful to GOD without which I would not been what I am today.
 DECLARATION

I SHERYL ANGELINE REBECCA hereby declare that the project report

entitled “A Study on Tourism Travel Management Of Neema Tours And
Travels” in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of M.B.A (Airline &
Airport Management) is a record of the original work done by me under the guidance
of Asst.Prof.Madhankumar MBA (A&AM) during my study at Nehru College of
Aeronautics and Applied Sciences, Coimbatore during the year of 2023-2025.

SIGNATURE
 CONTENT

S.No Chapter Number Title Page No.

1 1 Introduction 1 – 21
2 2 Company Profile 22 – 25
3 3 Airport Operations and 26 – 37
Management
4 4 Findings 38– 66
and Suggestions
5 5 Analysis and 67 – 73
Interpretation
6 6 Conclusion 74 – 75

7 7 Bibliography 76 - 80
 1

INTRODUCTION

The business of travel agency has undergone significant changes in the last two decades.
Gone are the days when there were no formal travel intermediaries to help travelers visit
places of interest. Several travel obstacles discouraged people to travel distance places. Only
a selected few managed to travel due to their own curiosity, motivation and spending ability.
Many could not make it due to the lack of communication network along with facilities and
amenities. Leaving behind the job of a travel agent, a destination did not even have minimum
facilities to hold the visitors for an hour long. So many changes have taken place over the
centuries. Tourism destinations are connected by modes of transport and visitors find a place
of stay at the destinations. 4 When modern communication system came into existence in
18th and 19th centuries, the world could witness mass travel leading to the demand of luxury
transport and advance arrangement of stay and sightseeing. Those advance bookings of train,
ferry, bus, airlines, theater hall, entry fees, etc were organized by a person with sound
experience and information. In the beginning of travel agency business, travel agents could
help their own community members or fellow members travel safely. Later, it became a
formal business with all professional practices. Gradually, the business has grown in such a
scale that competitive multinational travel companies have entered into this travel business.
This lesson will explain the origin of travel agency business in the world with reference to the
contribution of Richard Cox and Thomas Cook for having set up professional travel agency
in the 18th and 19th centuries respectively.
 2

Origin of Travel Agency Business

The nature of travel agency business is to provide holiday-related services such as ticket
booking, transfer arrangement, hotel room booking and arrangement of ground transportation,
venue selection and booking for MICE activities. The scope of business of travel agents was
narrow and confined to selected services. Moreover, the business was managed with small
investment. It was risky business as it was depending upon the natural and socio-political
along with cultural factors. The amount of profit was too little to attract new entrants to do
this business. A number of restrictions were imposed by the government on travel agents and
tour operators for entry into tour operation business. Tour operators had no choice, but to deal
with other problems like confirmation of hotel rooms, safety in travel, quality of foods, travel
documents, volatile political system, language differences, cultural differences, cumbersome
and tedious travelling, long journey, etc. However, invention of railways and steamship as a
common mode of transport changed the perceptions of people on travelling distance places.

Cox & Kings

Cox & Kings in the second half of eighteenth century became pioneer in providing travel
logistics to British Army stationed at various locations in the world. It claims to be 5 the
oldest travel agency in the world. The origin started from the appointment for making
arrangements of auxiliary services to the First Foot Guards as Regimental Agent. Richard
Cox worked under the mentor of Colonel Lord Ligonier for providing necessary services to
the Army Officers in the overseas. The Company became the most reliable military agents for
British Government. In the subsequent period, business got expanded to banking, shipping
and tour operation business. Being a 250-year old company serving leisure and business
travelers, it maintains business and operational networks across the world. Over the years, the
company has created a huge brand and credibility in the outbound travel market. Its
international offices and representatives are located in UK, USA, Japan, Germany, Spain,
South Africa, Russia, Italy, Sweden and Australia. Cox & Kings was renamed as the Eastern
Carrying Company Limited as per the Indian Companies Act, VII of 1913. Fortunately, the
company got back its generic name as Cox & Kings in 1950. It was registered as Private
Limited Company in 2001 and an enlisted company of National Stock Exchange of India. It
is a premium brand in offering all travel related services in the Indian subcontinent. About
5000 trained staff members are working at 14 offices, 25 associated offices and 44 associate
offices in India. In addition to its
 3

headquarters in Mumbai, 12 branch offices are located in New Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore,
Kolkata, Ahmadabad, Kochi, Hyderabad, Pune, Goa, Nagpur and Jaipur.

The company offers competitive tour packages to suit all segments of Indian customers. Its
areas of operation include leisure and corporate holidays, insurance and frontier formalities.
Its outbound package tours are promoted in the brand name of Duniya Dekho. This particular
package has become so attractive due to packaging, pricing and marketing strategies. It is a
group tour comprising destinations in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, US, Canada, Far-East,
Middle East, South Africa and Mauritius. Cox & Kings is a professionally managed Public
Limited Company working for FIT and GIT travel as one-stop travel solutions point. Other
services include charter flights, cruises, foreign exchange and MICE. The Flexihols is an
outbound holiday for FIT customized for independent travelers wishing to travel to Europe,
Far East, America, Australia, New Zealand, and Africa. At the same time, many trade fare
packages are also promoted for traders, exporters, importers and manufacturers to organize
technical visits, factory visits, and buyer-seller meets. For example, Cox & Kings organized
package tours for 75 corporate houses in 2006. 6 It is a recognized active member of TAAI,
IATA, PATA, ASTA, IATO, ICCA and ICPB Charter. The Government of India, Ministry of
Tourism conferred on Cox & Kings as the Best Conference Agent for consecutive seven
years. Radius is a business associate to maintain its operations across 4,640 branches around
the world. The company acquired Holiday Break PLC for GBP 323.43 million in 2011 and
the CVCI private equity investment has been made in Cox & Kings Ltd’s UK Subsidiary
2012. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted the Company as Category II Foreign
Exchange License. It works with authorized dealer’s foreign exchange nominated banks.

Thomas Cook and Its Origin

Thomas Cook is known to have aroused interests to help people in England undertake travel
within the country or neighbouring country. The 9th June, 1841 is a red letter day in the
history of travel trade in the world. On this day, Thomas Cook walked from Harborough to
Leicester to attend a temperance meeting and he stumbled upon with an idea of arranging
train tickets for the members of Temperance Society where he was serving as an evangelist
and Baptist book seller. He started his carrier as a Cabinet Maker. A 32-year old cabinet-
maker could become world’s founder professional travel agent. He achieved many milestones
during his lifetime and many were achieved by his son John Mason Cook. Thomas Cook
was much
 4

worried about the Victorian social problems due to the consumption of heavy alcohol. He
thought of bringing some changes with the travel that could be possible due to invention of
railway system. Thomas Cook was the first travel agent who introduced hotel coupons,
circular notes, credit cards and advance reservation as part of its travel innovations. Thomas
Cook showed the path of travel business to other contemporary travel agents with his
organized package tour for leisure tourists. His pleasure and continental travel are now being
studied by many new-age entrepreneurs in travel trade. First Excursion The history of
professional travel agency business started with a day-long excursion tour for his 570 friends
in the Temperance Society from Leicester to Loughborough in 1841. He took the services of
the British Railway. All his friends were charged one shilling for this excursion. That
excursion tour was accompanied with a band to play typical hams and a picnic lunch of hams
along with the afternoon tea for refreshment.

Thus, the successful conduct of the first excursion tour by Thomas Cook led to introducing
all- inclusive package tour. Subsequently, a series of trips were conducted between Leicester,
Nottingham, Derby and Birmingham on behalf of Local Temperance 7 Societies and Sunday
Schools to provide experience of train travel. Thomas Cook described the first excursion as
Enthusiastic Philanthropy as he did not have any intention of making money. He was printing
posters and hand bills to facilitate people to travel comfortably. Establishment of Modern
Travel Agency The beginning of the establishment of modern travel agency in the world
started with the railway journey from Leicester, Nottingham and Derby to Liverpool. He
made some profits from this trip. The first mass tour across England with entertainment
activities began in 1845 to provide value-for-money package. Sir Joseph Paxton, architect of
the Crystal Palace, persuaded Thomas Cook to devote himself to bringing workers from
Yorkshire and the Midlands to London for the Great Exhibition of 1851. The untapped
opportunity was grabbed by Thomas Cook with a lot of determination and enthusiasm.
Thomas Cook conducted tours for 150,000 people to visit the Great Exhibition in Hyde Park
from Yorkshire and the Midlands in 1851 followed by the first continental tour in 1855. He
accompanied two landmark tours to the International Exhibition from Harwich to Antwerp,
Brussels, Cologne, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Strasbourg and to Paris.
 5

Travel Innovations

Thomas Cook introduced Hotel Coupons in 1868 to help customers check in hotels without
any hassle. Hotels also honoured the hotel coupons issued by Thomas Cook. It reduced the
cumbersome procedures of payments through cash. Hotels accepted the coupons for
providing rooms and other allied services such as food, entertainment, transport etc. Hotels
were benefited from the coupons as bulk numbers of rooms were booked in advance and it
was only transaction. Thomas Cook in turn received commission from hotels as both
maintained the accounts of their periodic transactions. Thomas Cook introduced Circular
Note in 1874 to help customers travel safely. Circular Notes were accepted across the hotels,
restaurants and transport operators at several tourism destinations and cities in the Europe and
the USA. The Cook’s Circular Note got circulated in New York and it was treated as an early
invention of traveler’s cheque in the world. More particularly, the circular notes were easily
exchanged against the local currency that provided much relief to the travelers in meeting the
contingency expenditures like shopping, tips, transfer, extra services, etc.

Package Tour for Middle Class

The massive industrialization in the mid 19 th century made massive impact on the increase
in income and consumption. It created sizable middle-class people with much disposable
income. Taking the advantage of the trends, Thomas Cook took the benefits of rising middle-
class customers when customized package tours were designed to suit their travel needs.
Those middle-class customers demanded for visiting destinations in Switzerland and Italy. He
negotiated with innkeepers and hoteliers to provide rooms and meals at good prices.
 6

Tour Across Intra-Continental

Thomas Cook continued to expand his business in Europe too. He conducted Grand Circular
Tours to Brussels, Cologne, the Rhine, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, Strasbourg and Paris, with
return trip to London via Le Havre or Dieppe. He undertook the familiarization tours to
Switzerland in June 1863 to visit the places of interest, contact hotels and innkeepers. He
accompanied sixty affluent class clients and conducted the tour to Geneva. Thomas Cook
organized trips in the Northern and Western Europe in 1863. With the co-operation of the
Paris, Lyons and Mediterranean Railways, Thomas Cook began to issue Circular Train
Tickets (in both English and French) between Paris and the Alps. He then conducted the first
circular tours to Switzerland, after having made an immediate success. He also arranged the
package tour across the Alps. The first Italian tours organized in the summer of 1864 during
which Thomas Cook escorted two large groups. One group was taken to Florence and parts of
central Italy and the other one was accompanied to Rome and Naples.

Intercontinental Tour

Thomas Cook conducted the tour to the USA in the North American continent. He
introduced the ready-made package tour to London, Paris, Rome and Geneva. In the
subsequent time, the Atlantic Ocean was crossed for conducting outbound tours to North
America. It was Mr. John Mason Cook (son of Thomas Cook) who conceived the operation
and management of the first- ever American tour. Thomas Cook undertook an exploratory
trip to the North America in 1865 for the sake of gathering information about the transport,
accommodation, food, sightseeing, safety and security, etc. The Company extended its
operation to Egypt and Palestine in the year 1869 in order to cater the demand for visiting
Pyramids in Egypt and religious 9 visit to Jerusalem. He managed to develop a system of
tours that covered 4,000 miles of railways journey. The objective of aligning with the
AMTRK helped in conducting safe and affordable package tour in the USA.
 7

Great Journey

That trip was practically possible to travel to Egypt via China in 1869 following the opening
of the Suez Canal and the completion of a rail network linking the East and West coasts of
America. Finally, Thomas Cook and his small party managed to travel across the Atlantic
Ocean by steamship to discover a new route of world. In 1869, he conducted his first party up
the river Nile with the help of two steamers. He set out for the Round-theWorld-Tour from
Leicester in 1872 when he reached at the age of 63. They travelled from New York to San
Francisco by rail. They cruised to Japan followed by to China across the Inland Sea. He
visited Singapore, Ceylon and India. While leaving Mumbai (then Bombay), they crossed the
Indian Ocean and the Red Sea to Cairo. He travelled back to London from Cairo, Egypt.
Thomas Cook alone set off on an extended tour of Egypt and Palestine. Finally, he reached
back home after traveling through Turkey, Greece, Italy and France. It was a 222 - day World
Tour. He was speechless after seeing the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal and the
Pyramid. The world tour was a great achievement for expansion of business to different parts
of the world. He gathered information about the people, culture, political systems, economic
systems, facilities, amenities, transport connectivity, etc. Free Independent Travelers (FIT)
started buying packages from Thomas Cook. There were more demands of FITs to buy the
Round-the-World Package Tour. Independent travelers visited those places explored by
Thomas Cook and his party. Some of them traveled to Asia via Australia and New Zealand
rather than China and Japan.

Second Generation Thomas Cook Business

Thomas Cook was very fortunate to have his son John Mason Cook as an able successor to
manage promotion, marketing and administration of company affairs. Mr. Cook could
manage the Thomas Cook’s business empire during the World Tour. His son took the control
of Thomas Cook business after the head office got shifted to Ludgate Circus. Mr. Cook went
for expansion of business to different countries and he took the decisions at a time when
telegraphy was in the beginning and telephone was not invented. 10 Mr. Cook set up overseas
editions of “The Excursionist”. It was the newspaper launched by Thomas Cook in 1851 to
educate customers about the places interest in France, Germany, India, Australasia, America
and the Far East in the package tour. The newspaper was renamed as “The Traveller’s
Gazette” in May 1902. It continued to be published until 1939.
 8

John Mason Cook’s Remarkable Contribution

The British Government appointed John Mason Cook in 1884 to organize a relief expedition
up the Nile to rescue General Gordon from Khartoum. Arrangements were made for the
movement of 18,000 troops, nearly 40,000 tons of supplies, 40,000 tons of coal and 800
whale boats. Mr. Cook undertook The Gordon Relief Expedition for the British Government
as a part of social service to the nation. Mr. Cook and his Egyptian managers supervised the
entire operation. Despite all the efforts, Khartoum fell in January 1885 and Gordon was
killed.

Merger and Acquisition

Thomas Cook and John Mason Cook died successively during the 1890s when the company
got consolidated its operations worldwide. Mr. Cook’s three sons Frank Henry, Ernest
Edward and Thomas Albert could manage the operation. They introduced winter sports
holidays, tours by motor car and commercial air travel. The company was registered as
Thomas Cook & Son Ltd in 1924. The office headquarters was shifted from Ludgate Circus
to the aristocratic residential area at Berkeley Street in Mayfair in 1926 Later, the
headquarters of Thomas Cook and Son Ltd was used as the Centre of London Society.
Thomas Cook & Son Ltd was sold to the Belgian Compagnie International edes WagonsLits
et des Grands Express Européens in 1928. The Wagons Lits was a leading operator of most of
Europe’s luxury sleeping cars, including the Orient Express. The Wagons-Lits headquarters
in Paris was seized by British forces and Mr. Cook’s British assets were requisitioned by the
British Government immediately after the outbreak of World War II. A deal was struck to sell
the company to Britain’s Four Mainline Railway Companies. Thomas Cook & Son Ltd struck
a deal with Wagons-Lits to hold 25% stake in overseas business. The Nationalized British
Railways has taken over the company in 1948. In 1972, Thomas Cook & Son Ltd was taken
over by a consortium of Midland Bank, Trust House 11 Forte and the Automobile
Association. A new standardized corporate logo was conceived and introduced. Fortunately,
Thomas Cook managed to overcome that period and survived the recession in 1970. As a
result of which, Thomas Cook enhanced its reputation for providing excellent service by
launching a Money Back Guarantee scheme in 1974. Thomas Cook began to concentrate on
its long-haul tours program by acquiring Rankin Kuhn Travel in 1982. It closed the operation
of short-haul travel market in 1988. The company made a comeback to the core short hauls
package tour market in 1996 after it acquired Sun world. Thomas Cook family members
celebrated 150 years of its long journey in 1991. The company
 9

was acquired by Westdeutsche Landes bank (West LB). It is the Germany’s third largest bank
and the LTU Group became the Germany’s leading charter airline in 1992. Thomas Cook
Ltd. became a wholly-owned subsidiary of West LB in 1995. Thomas Cook & Son Ltd. got
benefited from the Post-World War holiday boom, which witnessed one million British
nationals travelling abroad by 1950. The Company set up a Business Travel Service (BTA)
and renovated the holiday camp at Prestatyn (which had opened shortly before the outbreak
of war). Although Cook’s remained the largest and most successful company in the industry,
but its dominance in the ravel market was subsequently being contested by the emergence of
new travel firms.

The First German Travel Agencies

The first German Travel agencies in the line of modern travel agencies were known as
Immigration Agencies. These agencies were engaged in booking ship’s passages and
sometimes group journeys from a collection point to the point of embarkation. The oldest of
such agencies was Reiseburo Rominger in Stuttgart in 1842. This agency subsequently
extended its activities to the whole range of travel services in Europe. To make traveling
simple for the individual, the concept of tickets for means of transport were introduced and
issued by these larger agencies in Europe.

The First Indian Owned Travel Company

Pallonji Katgara & Jamshedji Dastoor created the Jeena and Company (a shipping and export
company) with a seed capital of US$ 75 in 1900. The Jeena Tours and Travels was
established in 1920 with the privilege of being the first Indian - owned travel company. In
1961 the Company was merged into Travel Corporation (India) Pvt Ltd to become India’s
largest travel company under the leadership of the Katgaras.

People were not aware of services of travel agency and they used to face several types
of difficulties to arrange tour on their own. Travel agents were appointed for the purpose of
arranging logistics for the army personnel or reliefs for war victims. They used to work for
providing postal and courier services to the government. In the due course of time, some of
the travel agents provided travel information like the time table of arrival and departure of
trains and buses to the local people and visitors. As such, there were not organized contacts
 10

of travel agents with the accommodation service providers and transport operators prior
to the establishment of the first professional travel agency by Thomas Cook in 1841.
Even
though, Cox and Kings became the first travel agent established way back in 1757 in UK to
work as agent for British Army stationed at various colonies of British Government,
Thomas Cook revolutionized the business of travel agency for their innovative travel
solutions like
Hotel Coupons, Circular Notes, Guide Books, the travel magazine, etc. On the other hand,
the American Express Company also introduced the Travelers’ Cheque and Credit Cards
to the travelers. The contribution of these three travel agencies is remembered for several
business experimentations and innovations. This lesson has highlighted the achievements
of American Express Company along with the history of travel trade in India.

The American Express Company celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2000 as a branded
Credit Card and Traveler’s Cheque Company. It has created its own niche in the credit card
segment. Today, the company is the world’s largest wholesale travel agents and
consolidators with provisions of travel solutions for flights, hotels, car rentals, holiday
packages, cruises and money exchanges to individuals, groups and corporate travelers.

Beginning of Traveller’s Cheque

American Express is a global company serving public as well as government agencies
with its unique supply chain management system to deliver travel products flawlessly at
distance places for the last one and a half decade. Travelers are familiar and comfortable
with traveler’s cheque issued by American Express from several locations around the
world. It was a travel solution for long-haul travelers carrying money for spending on
transport, accommodation, food, tips and shopping. Traveling to distance places was not
safe and travelers were attacked on the way to snatch valuables including money. People
found travelling far-off places risky and unsafe. Cox & Kings and Thomas Cook in UK
and American Express in USA started travel business for helping general public travel
and sojourn safely.
 11

Among them, American Express has become popular worldwide for its Money Order
Business. It is a generic name when someone thinks of sending money to distance places.
Being an oldest and largest travel company in introducing innovative travel solutions, it had
a humble beginning with freight business in 1850 in USA. The Company was an authorized
freight agency of banks in USA to transport small parcels containing currency notes, bills,
certificates and other negotiable instruments.
American Express started the Money Order business in 1882 as an agent to deliver
money to the receivers at several locations. It collected some charge from the senders.
This was the history of success of American Express Company. In the subsequent time,
it introduced the world’s first Traveller’s Cheque in 1891. Travelers deposited money at
American Express counter and they were issued cheque in different denominations. Those
cheques were surrendered for exchange of money at American Express branches/franchises
or any authorized commercial banks across the USA.
There were two benefits for American Express Company.

➢ It collected service charge for issuing cheques

➢ Money, which was deposited for issue of cheque, was invested for earning interest.

Traveler’s cheque business became very lucrative for the company and it expanded
its network across the USA and other European countries including UK. American
Express Company became a popular and reliable agency for the general public and
government for its Money Order as well as Traveler’s Cheque.

Philanthropic Work
The historic assistance of the American Express Company with its cheque earned
names and fames for the company to receive wider acceptability. The stranded passengers

in European cities during the First World War were given cash against its traveller’s
cheques and money orders instantly. It was a timely help for passengers that helped
passengers
spend for routine things. Thus, it is a notable contribution of American Express during
World War I. That needed service enhanced the brand loyalty and attachment of people
for American Express services. The general public or travelers in USA and Europe
trusted
 12

the service. The Commercial Banks highly recognized the credibility of American Express
Company. In the due course time, the British government engaged the Company to take the
responsibility of supplying relief materials to the British prisoners of war in the countries
like Germany, Bulgaria, Holland, Norway, Switzerland and Turkey. The company slowly
expanded its business to commercial banking services in Europe.

Diversification of Business
Cargo and baggage handling and money exchange were the core business until 1915.
A 30,000-mile world cruise tour connecting and stopping at different countries such as
Cuba, Panama, Japan, China, Singapore, India and Egypt along with the
Mediterranean

countries was conducted for passengers in 1922. The duration of the cruise tour was
fourmonth long.
The company also entered into the direct sale of bus, train and cruise tickets.

The diversification of business did not bring about visible changes in the business
due to the political turmoil followed by two World Wars in a gap of two decades. After
the end of World War II, there were political unions across the world and many countries
deeply realized the impact of wars on the trade and commerce. Neighbouring countries were
engaged in dialogue for promoting trade and commerce. That resulted in the movement of
people from one country to another.
American Express took the advantage of the mass movement of people in early

1950s and the business got revived. The first Credit Card was introduced in 1958. As a
result, credit cards were issued with easy formalities for the general public in America to
use it extensively. People took it a status symbol and hassle-free way of purchasing and
paying.

Acquisitions for Expansions

The American Express went on acquiring companies which were directly and
indirectly associated with the travel business. The names of the companies include Shearson
Loeb Rhodes, First Data Resources, Trade Development Bank, Lehman Brothers, Kuhn
Loeb and Investors Diversified Services. All the diversifications and acquisitions took place
 13

between the 1970s and 1980s. This had a significant impact on the revenue generation. The
profit reached to the tune of $1 billion in 1986.
There was a setback to the company’s turnover when restaurant operators did not
use the cards due to high rates for accepting the payments through the Amex cards. The
Company maintained strategic links with airlines, banks, retailers, and other tourism
business establishments to increase the circulation of Amex Card.

History of Travel Agency Business in India

Travel agents were not merely meant for selling travel-related services, but also
used to take part individually or with group for promotion of tourism destinations. The
international travel organizations like Thomas Cook, American Express and Cox and King
have made remarkable contributions to the growth of travel agency and tour operation
business.

Those travel agencies brought several new ideas to the limelight. Similarly, travel

agencies in various countries followed and practiced the innovative business strategies.
Travel trade in India was not considered as a business to grow given the scanty demand of
people for traveling in domestic and foreign countries during the pre-independence period.
Apart from Thomas Cook’s organized package tour, there was hardly any entrepreneur
from India who ventured into the business. The Government of India took a slew of
measures during the post independence period to increase tourist traffic to India. It
increased the inbound tourist traffic to India after 1950.
 14

The growth of travel agency business was not so significant in the first phase of
the Post-Independence Period. Nevertheless, several initiatives were taken to increase the
share of India’s in international tourist arrivals and revenue receipts. The evolution of travel
agency business in India is presented below.

Pre-Independence Period
The evolution of modern travel agency and tour operation business in India does
not have a long history unlike the history of travel agency business in Western Europe
and North America. The overseas travel agents like Cox & Kings and Thomas Cook used
to operate the inbound tour in India. There was no formal and organized travel agency in
small cities to handle the foreign visitors. Thomas Cook& Cox and Kings used to
conduct the world tour and special interest tours for royal family members. Package tours
were regularly conducted to India for British officials and their family members and
relatives. They used to visit Kashmir and Agra.

The royal visit of Queen Victoria to Kolkata after the Sepoy Mutiny in 1858 was
organized by Thomas Cook. Queen Victoria’s visit to India removed the threat of safety and
security from the minds of British nationals. The connectivity through sea route between
India and the countries in Europe made travel easy, safe, comfortable and affordable.

Peninsular and Oriental Steamship Company in 1878 was used to bring a group
of British tourists to India. The group landed in Mumbai followed by a visit to Agra by
train to see the Taj Mahal. The group finally visited the Kashmir valley. When Thomas
Cook conducted this particular tour in India, he established the Thomas Cook and Sons
International (Ltd.) at Mumbai and Kolkata for the inbound operation in 1880. The Eastern
Princess Department was also established in 1887 to cater the travel needs of Indian royal
family members. As reported, the British, the French and other nations in Europe visited
Taj Mahal, Jammu & Kashmir, Shimla, Goa, Ajanta & Ellora, other hill stations and beach
resorts.
 15

A sizable number of young Indians travelled to England for higher study and
preparation for civil service examinations. At the same time, Indian political leaders
traveled to England to participate several round-table discussions. Thomas cook started
booking train tickets, reservation of guest houses and arrangement of small car, mini coach,
horse carts and animal-driven carts to transfer tourists from the railway stations to guest
house followed by conducting sightseeing tour.

Being a pioneer in operating tours in India, Thomas cook confronted many

hindrances while conducting the tours.

➢ Lack of proper road, bridges, railway stations, accommodation, money

exchanger and public toilets

➢ Lack of trained tour conductors, guides, escorts and interpreters

➢ Untrained staff in the guest houses and other eating places

➢ Cab drivers without having basic etiquette

Unlike in the Europe, the Indian railways system was much underdeveloped in the

context of integration with the travel agents and tour operators in the promotion of inbound
and domestic package tour. The issue has not been addressed fully as yet. In the similar
instance, the airlines had limited role to work with travel agents and at the same time, there
were not much airlines connectivity with India. Because airlines were generally operated
within the domestic sky and countries did not venture for linking airline services beyond
the boundary of country for two important reasons like political turmoil and low-engine
capacity for long-haul journey.

These are the following observations of Thomas Cook while conducting tours in India

➢ Travel agents did not have qualified and trained staff to manage

➢ Travel agents did not have access to technology

➢ Travel agents were not given credit facility for the reservation of hotel rooms

and airlines tickets.

➢ Travel Agents hadlimited scope for diversification of business.

 16

➢ Travel agents did not consider advertisement or sales promotion or publicity as

the ways of increasing volume of business.

The First Indian Travel Agents

Jeena & Co., Lee & Muirhead India Pvt. Ltd and Jamnadas & Co. Ltd were the first

travel agents and they were doing inbound and outbound tour business in Mumbai. Thomas
Cook and American Express used to operate the inbound tour with the help of Jeena and
Co. Thus, Mr. J. N Katgara became the pioneer travel agent in India with the establishment
of Jeena & Company in 1920 to cater the domestic travel needs.
Mr. Katgara took the advantage of business of Mumbai city and ventured into cargo
and courier business. He subsequently concentrated on ticket booking, hotel
reservation, package tour, transport arrangements, etc. There were many developments
in the travel trade in the Post- Independence period.

Post Independence Period

Some of the events during Post Independence Period opened windows of

opportunities for the travel agents to expand more functions. One such event is the reported
prepared by Sir John Sargent in 1945 about the development of means of travel from nearest
railway station, residential accommodation, travel brochures and guide books, provision
of authorized guides, etc. The formation of Tourist Traffic Branch coordinated with the travel
agencies and tour operators in India and overseas to promote domestic and inbound tourism
in 1949. The branch also established coordination for conduct of conferences on tourism
and coordination with railways. Establishment of Tourist Bureau in States and
development of tourist centers and the training of guides were some of the initiatives of the
Central Government for promotion of tourism.
 17

Overseas and Regional Tourism Offices

Two overseas tourism offices were opened at London and New York and Regional
Tourism Offices were also opened in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai. These offices
coordinated and controlled various segments of travel trade. In the later period, 18 overseas
tourism promotion offices were aggressive in exhibiting tourism attractions of India.
Foreign tour operators also included India’s selected tourism places like Agra, Kashmir,
Ajanta and Ellora, Varanasi, etc in the promotional brochures. At the same time, India’s
overseas tourism promotional offices maintained continuous dialogue with the foreign
tour operators to participate in the familiarization tour program in India. Air India hosted
the familiarization tour to several places of tourism interests. It was major step of the
Union Ministry of Tourism to print brochures with colourful photographs to create better
image in order to remove perceptions of foreign visitors about India.

Creation of TAAI In 1951

A group of twelve leading Travel agents formed the Travel Agents Association of India
(TAAI) in 1951. The primary purpose was

➢ To protect the interests of those engaged in the industry;

➢ To promote its orderly growth and development; and

➢ To safeguard the rights of the travelling public.

TAAI is the largest Travel Association of India and it is recognized as the voice of
the Travel and Tourism industry in India. There are over 1800 Active; Allied and
Associate members. These members are IATA accredited Travel Agencies, tour operators,
transports, Airlines & General Sales Agencies, Hotels and Tour operators and educational
and training institutions.

Merger in Indian Travel Agency Business

The Jeena and Company organized group tours in overseas and in India for Indian
travelers. It handled the first group of foreign tourists in 1950. However, the Company
and
 18

other two Indian Travel Agencies were merged with the name they have been recognized as
Travel Corporation of India Ltd. (TCI) since it was formed in 1961.

At the same period, the bulk of International tourists were handled by the Thomas

Cook and Sons and The American Express Company. At the same time, Student International
Travel Agents (SITA), Thomas Cook India Ltd. American Express, Cox and King, Ind
Travel,
Travel House and Stic Travels entered into the travel agency and tour operation business
in India. With the change of foreign exchange rules, Thomas Cook India (Ltd.) was set up
under the Companies Act 1956 in 1978 as per the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act
(FERA) 1973.
The Asian Games were hosted in 1952 in India and attracted a good number
of inbound traffic to India. Majority of travel agencies dealt with airlines tickets and
inbound operations between 1951 and 1961. Some travel agents opened branch offices
and headquarter at Delhi, Agra and Jaipur as these are the iconic places and named as the
Golden Triangle of India. More particularly, travel agencies were resorting to the
ticketing business and inbound tours in the circuit.
Travel Agencies used to face the shortage of vehicles to conduct sightseeing tours.
Travel agents had no choice, but to take longer time to confirm the booking of hotels,
transports, train tickets, guide services and other ground arrangements. Today, there are
more than thousand travel agencies and tour operation companies in India.
The report of Ad-hoc Committee on Tourism submitted by the Jha Committee in
1963, recommended the role of public sector in the promotion tourism. India Tourism
Transport Undertaking was set up in 1965.
It later merged with other two tourism public sector undertaking subsidiaries of

Government and gave birth to India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) in 1966.
ITDC took several steps to provide luxury transport facilities at the key destinations.
The ITDC hotel properties came up and met the demand of foreign tourists in the
creation
of international standard rooms, facilities and amenities at par with the international
star hotels.
 19

Moreover, the Overseas Tourist Promotion Offices showcased India to the tour

operators and travel agents in Europe in 1968 and in the USA in 1971 in a massive scale.
However, the overseas tourism promotion was jointly sponsored and organized by the
Department of Tourism with Air India’s active participation and support. The tourist
arrivals registered a growth from 17, 000 in 1950 to 188,820 in 1968. From the year 1965,
there has been a constant increase in the number of tourists visiting India and
International tourists arrivals also increased to 13.29,950 in 1990.

Post Liberalized Period

The strategy of the Ministry of Tourism was to position tourism as a national
priority and enhances India’s competitiveness as a tourism destination. It also took steps
for improving and expanding product development, creating world-class infrastructure
and drawing up effective marketing plans and programmes. Thus, all those developments
directly contributed to the growth of travel agents and tour operators.

Changing Roles of Travel Agency Business

Traditionally, travel agents were the travel intermediaries to make arrangements of
travel, stay and movement for which they used to get base and override commission. Pay for-
performance and override commissions are widely prevalent method of making the

profit that is sustainable for large travel agents. Apart from ticketing, travel agents have
focused on travel insurance, hotel bookings and foreign exchange. Package tours have
remained to be the core source of business and tour operators concentrate more on selling
holiday packages. The travel business in India is largely divided into leisure and business
for inbound and domestic and employment/migrant travel. For example, Thomas Cook India
and KUONI as an outfit of SOTC outfit in India focus on adventure tourism, incentive
tourism and convention tourism.
 20

India’s Outbound and Inbound Growth

The outbound market is surging due to the competitive international airfares,

increasing disposable incomes of consumers and aspiration to travel abroad increasing.

The GIT and incentive travel market is growing in India. India expects about 10 million
overseas visitors and as outsourcing cities like Bangalore and Hyderabad draw more
business travellers. The busiest airports in New Delhi and Mumbai have been modernized
to accommodate more flights and passengers.

➢ Shrinking revenues from ticket sales

➢ Harder to maintain profitability

➢ Bargaining power of middle and upper-class customers

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India gives away the National Tourism
Awards to inbound operators, adventure tour operators, domestic tour operators, MICE
operators, Most Innovative Tour Operator and Tourist Transport Operators on the basis
of their foreign exchange earnings and innovation in promoting. Travel agents and tour
operators can take the advantage of the emerging tourism areas like Medical Tourism,
Rural Tourism, Cruise Tourism and Convention Tourism. These key areas of tourism
can be tapped in the future course by the travel agents and tour operators.

Role of TAAI AND IATO

TAAI brings in changes in the travel trade sector in the country. TAAI has been
working on delivery of highest service, build trust and credibility in the marketplace and
apply technical skills. Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) was established in 1982
in New Delhi. It has more than 4000 members comprising active, allied and associate. It
maintains connections and constant interaction with other Tourism Associations in US,
Nepal and Indonesia. Indian travel agents and tour operators regularly present the issues
like clogged and creaking airports, ageing air traffic control systems and a chronic hotel
shortage, combined with slow and cumbersome bureaucracy.
 21

The Development of the Travel and Tourism Industry

The travel and tourism industry is one of the largest and fastest growing sectors

in the world. By 2030, it is estimated that there will be 1.8 international tourist arrivals –
which means an average of 5 million people crossing international borders every
single day. As powerful as the travel and tourism sector is in terms of its reach and
economic impact, it is unique in the diversity of its composition. Stakeholders in
travel and tourism range from global hotel chains, cruise lines and seaports, and
airports and airlines turning over billions of dollars every year, to individuals
running a bed and breakfast, teaching a cooking class or leading a tour through
their local community. Thinking of the industry in such a way allows us to picture
not only the vast economic impact that it has at the global level, but also to
consider
the life-transforming effects it can have on real people in destinations across the world.
Looking to the next decade, 100 million new jobs could be created in the travel
and tourism sector by 2028 – 64.5 million of these will be in the Asia Pacific
region, with 35 million in China and 10 million in India.
 22

CHAPTER 2
COMPANY PROFILE
 23

COMPANY PROFILE

Neema tours and travel is a professional travel agency and conceived in the year 1974 by Mr
David Simon. The travel agency is located in the centred part of RS Puram, Coimbatore,
Tamil Nadu - India. The company has grown to become one of the best preferred travel
companies, because the motto is to provide a safe, secure, lovely and memorable trip with
uncompromised quality service and personal attention to even minor detail to make their
customers feel like home. The company has recruited skilled professional staff to provide an
outstanding service and assistance with all travel needs.

They introduced themselves as a well-organised and efficient travel agency for travel related
services around the world

The company promises a complete assurance to give a trouble free, non-bothering and a
magnificent trip to a paradise on Earth, with a warm welcome and a beautiful send off to
carry back home containing enormous sweet memories.

With decades of hard work and adherence to ethics and integrity, they have emerged as the
airline consolidator and travel facilitator with market share of approximately 12% of the
travel market . They sell directly as well as provide access to selling comprehensive travel
services to agents across India and Malaysia.
 24

Over the years, the module has evolved to include – Air tickets for domestic and international
travel with lowest fare guaranteed , Domestic and International Package tours, Religious
Tours, Cruise Tours, Special Interest Groups, Training in Travel & Tourism and Student
Travel and Travel Technology, Reservation of railways as the authorised agent of IRCTC,
Hotel Bookings, Passport, Visa, Travel Insurance, Forex and more. they offer ancillary
services like airport assistance, lounge access and pick-up and drop facilities.

The company is proudly committed to operating our business in a professional and

responsible manner, Travel experts are inspired and guided by our core principles, allowing
us to satisfy a substantial number of customers. They have created a niche in the travel
market, giving significant standing among our suppliers and clients. They believe travelling is
an experience in itself. Hence, it should be easy and hassle free.

The company constantly strive to make travelling a one-of-a-kind experience and completely
automated travel solutions are exactly the thing we need. The turnaround time and deadlines
are critical while dealing with travellers. Delivering the perfect solution to the ever changing
needs the clients is their ultimate. The glorious number of clients and their testimonies can
verify the company profile.
 25

The company is the member of TAAI – Travel Agent Association Of India , Ministry Of
Tourism, ETAA – Enterprising Travel Agent’s Association, Department Of Tourism – Tamil
Nadu, Indian Chamber Of Commerce. GSTIN – 33AGUPS0779G1ZU
 26

CHAPTER 3

TRAVEL AND TOURSIM OPERATION MANAGEMENT

 27

TRAVEL AND TOURISM OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT

International tourist traffic is expected to cross one billon and it is projected to touch 1.5

billion by 2015. One can imagine the volume of tourism business worldwide in current

decade. The role of tour operator and travel agent is significant as they are expected to

contribute so much for achieving this target of the UNWTO. As such, tour operators and

travel agents promote

destinations through their different packages and they are linked with service providers at the

forward and backward points. As a business firm, a big tour operating company or a large

travel agent operates the business activities that in turn help them yield revenue. There are

more than a dozen functional or operational areas that directly and indirectly determine the

quantum of business that a travel agency or tour operation firm manages for profit as well as

customer satisfaction. In this lesson, major functions of travel agencies and tour operators

include travel information, booking tickets, itinerary preparation, designing of tour packages,

travel

documents, insurance, foreign exchange, franchising, conducting tours, marketing and

publicity, research and development, training and development, etc.

Provision of Travel Information

Information is an essential function of travel agency and tour operation. An

information seeker can become a customer to buy package tours when detailed information

is given to customers. Information must be clear and it must describe the places of tourist

interest pertaining to climate, accessibility, amenities, facilities, activities, people, culture,

etc. More particularly, tour brochure contains description with images about the places,

hotels, transports and other inclusive services. Thus, travel agency and tour operators
 28

provide information free of cost through telephone and internet. For example, Cox &

Kings and SOTC have created toll free number for information seekers. Auto reply or reply

through customer care executives disseminates information. Specific information like travel

mode, accommodation, meal plan, attractions, activities and events at a destination is also

provided.

Market Research and Development

Tourism is a new generation business and many entrepreneurs find it challenging

to be successful in their business ventures. Customers are more informative about the new

destinations and information is readily available on the finger tip. Travel products are now

becoming more competitive and customers have more bargaining power in the marker. It is

no longer monopoly package tour market a handful of few players like Thomas Cook and

Cox and Kings. So much innovation has taken place in package tour business. In view of the

fast changing market, travel agents and tour operators do have any choice other than selecting

the ways of resorting to research on customer satisfactions various parameters of services

and the quality of destinations. Thus, research and development activities are carried out

continuously for exploring new destinations, events or attractions and assessing the effects

of package tours.

Research work is done on trends of market, itinerary, elements of services in package

tours, customer preference, branding and costing of products. Large tour wholesalers are

committed for research work and field-based study for assessment of products. It is the tour

wholesaler that shows interest in research and development work. For example, Duniya

Dekho is an international outbound package of Cox and Kings and it has been appealing

the customers for the last several years. Research helps in the innovation of travel

products.
 29

Reservation of Tickets

Travel agencies and tour operators sell a variety of products but reservation of tickets

is still one of their sources of revenue. Reservation of airlines tickets, railway tickets, cruise

lines and bus tickets can be done either at agency counters or through reservation engines

available online these days. Due to stiff competition amongst airlines and low cost carriers

in India and globally to an extent, airlines are working on zero margin commission for

travel agencies. In the recent years, the scenario is slowly changing and online travel

agencies

especially are selling tickets online. Global Distribution Systems have changed the way

ticketing used to be.

Reservation of Hotel Rooms

The Computer Reservation System (CRS) or the Global Distribution Systems have

enhanced the simplifications of reservation of hotel rooms. Hotels put up all the necessary

information in advance on their web pages. It includes type of hotel, room, facilities and

services, meal plans, tariff and seasonal offers. It gives wider options to customers to

search, compare, chose and finally book a room of their choice. Online booking can be done

with the online transfer of payments through internet banking or debit/credit cards upon the

arrivals.

Reservation of Ground Services

Ground handling operators of destination management operators have the sole

responsibility of providing cars, coaches, caravans, entertainment entries, guides,

interpreters etc as per the contract or exchange order of the principal agents. Tour operators
 30

select the ground operators by taking several factors into considerations.

Selling Cruise Package

The business of cruise lines is growing unlike air ticketing in case of revenue

maximization. The new-age travellers wish to have experience of cruise line and it has

become affordable for lower middle-class person. It has limited scope for direct sales but

tour operators and travel agents largely sell the package tours. Travel agencies and tour

operators have identified cruise packages to prospective clients as more lucrative. Most of

these agencies are promoting and marketing cruise packages with a variety of offers and

discounts to attract tourists.

Preparation of Itinerary

Itinerary is an important exercise that tour operators engage senior executives to

design in a methodical way. Itinerary reflects the nature of tour, types of services and

duration of tour. Package tour is operated as per the descriptions and instructions in itinerary.

Tour

operators make full-proof survey of the places of tourist interest, facilities and amenities, etc

before finalization of itinerary. In brief, the sale of package tour is determined by itinerary

and programmes. The process gets initiated two or three years before the launch of package

tour in the market. It involves collection of information related to the duration of stay at a

particular destination and check-in and check-out time.

Costing Package Tour

Costing is an important activity of a tour operator while developing package tour.

It includes variable and fixed costs. Itinerary preparation and costing go together. Tour

operators take all precautionary measures to reduce the cost that helps in maximizing profits
 31

and passing benefits to customers. Thus, tour operators go for bargaining and negotiating

with primary service providers for best possible or competitive rates. For example, hotels

offer attractive discount or flat discount on the sale of bulk rooms. Thus, it is a key function

of tour operator to do costing systematically to optimize the benefits from the available

resources.

Designing Package Tour

Tour operators are now devoting their full resources for developing innovative

package tour as it is the business of tour operator to generate revenue as compared to

traditional ticketing business. Expert and experienced executives are assigned the work

of developing packages for different segments of customers. In order to design attractive

package tour, tour operators ensure for good itineraries, familiarization trips, feasibility of

itineraries. It is followed by package tour designing, costing and promoting package tour

directly or through travel agents. It is an important function as it earns maximum profit for

tour operator.

Conducting FIT, GIT and FAM Tour

Tour operator is more particular about the operation of FIT, GIT and FAM tour in a

professional manner. Developing an appealing package tour does not end the

responsibility of tour operator rather responsibility increases for conducting tour for

individual and group travelers. It requires different types of ground arrangements for FIT

traveler as compared to GIT travelers. Tour manages, travel associates, interpreters,

arrangement of guides, processing of travel formalities are some of the issues to be taken

care of. Travel agencies and tour operators also conduct FAM tours apart from FITs and

GITs as part of feasibility

 32

of the itinerary/package tours or as promotional methods in collaboration with destination.

Promotion and Publicity

Marketing and publicity of tourism places of interest is an important function

of tour operator and travel agent. Tour operator designs tour packages and sells directly

to customers or through retail travel agents at various locations. They are primarily

intermediaries for marketing tour packages, hotel services, MICE, air services, car rental

services, travel insurance etc. Marketing is a key function that a tour operator earmarks

budget to spend on advertisements, sales promotions and publicity.

Publicity is a promotional method that travel agents and tour operators prefer to

popularize the products with minimum costs. Participating in road shows, exhibitions,

mass plantations, etc helps in the promotion of package tour.

Reservation and Cancellation

Reservation and cancellation are two important functions of travel agents and tour

operators. Booking of air and bus tickets, hotel rooms and cruise line is the primary

activity of travel agents and tour operators. There are systematic procedures for making

reservation of rooms and airline seats .

Management of Ground Services

Both travel agents and tour operators can act as ground operator as a part of

diversification of business. Travel agents sell domestic and outbound package tour and

conducts sightseeing as a ground operator. It is hardly to see an independent ground

operator which exclusively deals with services at destinations. Tour operators also provide

the services as ground operator at important port of entry of inbound traffic into the country.
 33

Managing ground services is an important function of tour operator as it involves

direct interactions between guests and ground operator. Service conditions included in

package tour are realized at the destinations when ground operators. Ground operators

provide a variety of ground services like cars, coaches, caravans, entertainment

entries, guides, interpreters etc.

Travel Documentations

Travel documentations are processed for FIT and GIT package tours. Travel

documents include processing of passport, visa and health certificate along with currency

endorsements before the commencement of tours. The most important task is to follow

the issue of visa from Consulate Offices. It takes time to get the VISA clearance from the

embassies. As far as tourist visa is concerned, there is no much hassle to get visa processed

when it is pursued by tour operator. Visa is an endorsement on a passport indicating the

holder is allowed to enter, leave or stay for a specified time period in a country visited.

Health certificates, vaccination, insurance, foreign currency and restricted area permits are

also processed much before the commencement of tour. All these formalities are managed

by travel agencies and tour operators to help customers or member of GIT and FIT travel

comfortably.

Preparation of Annual Budget

Financial management of travel agency and tour operator is an important function.

Tentative income and expenditures statement is prepared to ascertain the company’s

financial position. Budgeting for different activities is prepared taking different business

diversification plan into consideration. In case of a multinational company with branches

 34

across the countries, each branch submits the annual income and expenditures to the

Regional Office and it is finally consolidated and submitted to the Corporate Office for

preparation of annual budget. Majority of travel agents and tour operators approve annual

budgets in the apex level meetings. Without proper budgeting and sufficient allocation of

funds, it is difficult to find the growth of business in a given financial year.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Ethical and fair-trade, responsible, pro-poor and sustainable tourism aims to provide

maximum protection to local ecology and environment. These tourism philosophies teach

best practices to travel agent and tour operators to follow and contribute to local destination

and community. Tour operators share the revenue for helping educational empowerment or

social welfare. The concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is explained as a social

obligation on the part of a firm or organization towards the welfare of communities. For

example, IATO, New Delhi is involved in counter pollution and contamination programmes

like Carbon Neutralization and Carbon Trading. This national body is also funding to the

NGOs for plantation programmes. Thus, the role of travel firms through CSR stands

vital to travel industry.

Training and Development

Travel agency and tour operation deals with intangible and perishable aspects for

which the job of qualified and skilled human resource is needed to provide services. In the

past, training and development was not given due importance as it was run by members

of family. Travel agency was a family business and different attributes were generally

inherited from the senior members of family. Many small travel agencies have become
 35

large business enterprises with more branches and diversified business. Majority modern

travel agencies and tour operators are now visiting for on-campus placement to tourism and

travel management institutes. In-house training is conducted for the employees with help of

professional trainers or senior executives.

Maintaining Relationship with Tourism Ministry

Various operations and activities of travel agents and tour operators are regulated

and supported by the National and State Tourism Organizations. As per the guidelines of

Tourism Policy, a travel agent or tour operator must be an enlisted and recognized business

firm or enterprise to run the business. The Ministry of Tourism also provides links to

recognized travel agents and tour operators in the official websites. At the same time, it

encourages them to take part in familiarization tour and exhibitions within the country or

abroad.

Membership of National and International Travel Organization

Memberships of different travel and tourism bodies provide much exposure to the

members in annual conventions and meetings. Apart from using the logo in letter head,

signboard and websites, it helps the members meet foreign and domestic travel agents

to initiate new business. Travel Agents and Tour Operators usually become the active

members of Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Travel Agents Association

of India (TAAI) Universal Federation of Travel Agents Association (UFTAA), Pacific

Asia

Travel Association (PATA), American Society of Travel Agents Associations (ASTA)

World Association of Travel Agencies (WATA for sharing common data and policy

suggestions for mutual benefits.

 36

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a new business area that constitutes an attractive source of

revenue. Customers are much aware of safety of their travel and compensation of package

tour. There are attractive insurance schemes introduced by insurance companies to take

care of life and package tour insurance. Premiums for these two purposes are added into

the cost of package tour or sometimes it is excluded from the cost of package tour.

Typical travel insurance may cover insurance for life, accidents, medical treatment,

baggage loss, trip cancellation and similar losses.

Currency Exchange

All outbound and inbound tours need authorization from Reserve Bank of India

(RBI) to do the transactions of receiving and paying through different foreign currencies

like US Dollar, UK Pound, Euro, etc. These foreign exchange dealers are governed as per

the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). A minimum commission is charged to

customers as per RBI rules.

Operation of MICE

Event management is today a completely professional business. Organising seminar,

conferences, conventions and exhibitions is also being undertaken by travel agencies and

tour operators apart from their regular travel services though there are specialised event

management companies for handling such events and programs. It may be noted that

most large travel firms are now offering exclusive Meetings, Incentive travel, Conventions/

conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) packages which are handled by their MICE divisions.
 37

Disaster Preparedness

Due to growing uncertainty about natural and manmade disasters such as cyclones,

floods, earthquakes, tsunami, landslides, accidents, fires, stampedes, terror strikes and

others, disaster preparedness is the most inevitable function of travel agency and tour

operations. Safety and security of visitors is prime responsibility of the operators and they

should be prepared to handle any such disasters. A team of professional is trained to

handle such incidents and avoid any harm to their clients to a great extent. They also

coordinate with the local disaster management teams to face any such challenges.

Use of Information Technology

Information technology has become an enabler for the growth of the travel agency

and tour operation business. Travel agencies have no choice but to adopt new technologies

to maintain quality standard of services. The modern gadgets include telephones, fax,

electronic mail, photocopiers and computers as essential communication equipment for travel

information. Proper use of communication technology can reduce time and costs. The staff

members are selected on the basis of their adequate computer skills.

 38

CHAPTER 4

FINDINGS AND SUGGESTIONS

 39

FINDINGS AND SUGGESSION

Over the years, the module has evolved to include – Air tickets for domestic and international
travel with lowest fare guaranteed , Domestic and International Package tours, Religious
Tours, Cruise Tours, Special Interest Groups, Training in Travel & Tourism and Student
Travel and Travel Technology, Reservation of railways as the authorised agent of IRCTC,
Hotel Bookings, Passport, Visa, Travel Insurance, Forex and more. they offer ancillary
services like airport assistance, lounge access and pick-up and drop facilities.

AIR TICKET AND RESERVATION

A flight travel is the most fastest and convenient mode of transport that is opted by many
tourists and travellers from all over the world. The number of passengers opting for a flight
travel is increasing day by day. Be it a business trip to meet delegates in a different nation or
a pleasure trip to simply enjoy a vacation abroad with family and friends.

Along with the average Indian’s ambition, air travel has also soared to new heights in recent
times. Local airlines have taken to the skies, while airline prices have decreased, making air
travel attractive to people. There was more than 20% increase in air travel passengers in
2016. This can be explained by a boom in cheap airline flights, accommodative airline
schedules, attractive airline ticket deals, and ease in the booking system. Passengers now also
find it easy to compare airline tickets online, assuring them of the best possible deals. Low-
cost airlines have played a huge part in the rise in number of Indian flyers.

Rise in Business Class Travel

No wonder, India is the fastest growing airlines market in the world. A testament to this is the
rise in airline reservation in business class seats on international travel, as corporates expand
their interests globally. From January to August in 2016, bookings in this segment rose by
around 75%. Not just business purposes, the younger generation prefers flying in the
premium cabin for leisure trips too.
 40

List of Domestic Airlines in India

The most important factor for Indians, before choosing an air carrier, is finding cheap airline
flights. Other parameters include leg room and flight punctuality. MakeMyTrip brings you a
list of airlines in India to help you choose the best airline tickets.

 Air India - No Indian airlines list is complete without Air India. It is a state owned
enterprise and offers both domestic and international operations. Its
symbol ‘Maharaja’ is a sign of Indian hospitality. Air India Flight Status Air India
Web Checkin

 Indigo - Indigo is one of the fastest growing of all airlines in India. Headquartered in
Gurgaon, India, it is the largest airline in India, in terms of the passengers carried. It
offers low fares, on-time arrivals, and a hassle-free flight and booking experience. It
promises great value for money. Indigo Airlines Flight Status

 Spicejet - Starting its operations in 2005, it is one of the cheapest domestic airlines. A
popular low-cost carrier, its tagline “Flying for everyone” sums up its philosophy. It
has primary hubs in airports in New Delhi and Hyderabad. Spicejet Flight Status |
Spicejet Web Checkin

 Vistara - Recently formed in 2015, it is a joint venture between Tata Sons and
Singapore Airlines. It offers the best of both worlds, with great hospitality and
affordable airline rates. Its name signifies infinite expanse, and the desire to push all
boundaries to be the best airline flights and air travel.

 GoAir - GoAir flights are famous for their efficiency and offering state of the art
services at the minimum cost. If you want great Indian airlines offers and cheap
airline
 41

tickets, then look no further. Its network spans prominent business and leisure spots in
India. Go Air Flight Status | Go Air Web Checkin.

Why book airline tickets for domestic travel?

The fastest way to travel: If you want to reach a destination that is quite far away from your city,
a flight will let you reach faster than any other mode of travel. As several domestic airlines
offer flights at various times of a day, you can choose to book an airline ticket based on your
preferred flight schedule. Moreover, you have the option of returning the same day to your
city. One of the major no-frills airlines known for never being late is IndiGo.

The most comfortable: Full-service airlines such as Air India and Vistara offer a range of
comfortable options in their different travel classes. In Air India’s Economy cabins, there are
temperature control systems. On the other hand, in Vistara’s Economy Class, the seats are
well designed and come with headrests.

Seamless journey with web check-in: All the domestic airlines offer web check-in facility. This
allows passengers to avoid the long queues at airports. They can print out the boarding pass,
book a desired seat and head straight to the airport an hour or two before departure. However,
this applies only to those who are only carrying their hand luggage.

Cheap air tickets: Regardless of wherever you are travelling to, the domestic airlines offer
attractive prices from time to time to match up with their competitors. MakeMyTrip also
offers a number of subject-to-change deals frequently. Moreover, if you book air tickets a
month or two ahead, it will be economical.

Inflight entertainment options: A number of domestic airlines offer a range of inflight

entertainment services. SpiceJet’s complimentary inflight service, Spic NEngage, offers web
series and cartoons and passenger can watch on their iOS and Android devices. Air India has
movie screens in all the travel classes as well .

Great food onboard: To make the passengers’ journey more comfortable, the full-service airlines
in India offer a variety of complimentary meal options. For the low-cost carriers, passengers
can pre-book meals and save on the overall airfare.
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NEEMA TOURS AND TRAVELS IN DOMESTIC DESTINATIONS AND

ITINERIES

SHIMLA AND MANALI

Shimla and Manali are popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh with many places to
visit, including:

Solang Valley

A valley with snow-capped mountains, meadows, and streams that's a popular destination for
adventure sports like paragliding, skiing, and zorbing

Hadimba Temple

Also known as the Dhungri Temple, this temple is dedicated to Hidimba Devi, one of the
wives of Pandava Prince Bhima. It's located in a grove of deodar trees.

Rohtang Pass

A well-known tourist destination that's 13,000 feet above sea level and offers breathtaking
views, especially in the winter when it's covered in snow
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THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE

The Golden Triangle is a region in India's northwest that includes the cities of Delhi, Agra,
and Jaipur:

City Known for

Agra Home to the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world

Jaipur Home to the Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage site that includes the world's
largest stone sundial

Delhi One of the three most visited cities in India

The three cities are connected by straight lines on a map, forming a triangle. The region is
considered a highlight of India, and is often included in tour packages. Some things to see
and do in the Golden Triangle,

NEPAL

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is the country’s only metropolitan city. Widely known as
the city of peace, Kathmandu is situated within the folds of a valley surrounded by the
Himalayan mountains. Besides its surrounding natural beauty, the old city is popular for its
maze-like alleys and Durbar Square . Durbar Square’s palace; Kasthamandap, which is a
wooden Hindu temple; and Hanuman Dhoka are some of the top draws of Kathmandu Nepal.

Pokhara

Pokhara is one of the highlights of Nepal tourismand is rightly known as the “tourist capital
of Nepal.” Situated at an altitude of 900m, it’s one of the highest cities globally. It also acts as
a gateway to the Annapurna trekking circuit, a famous trail along the Himalayas. On
Pokhara’s eastern shore lies the Lakeside district, popular for boating on the Phewa Lake. It’s
also home to various charming cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You can find various Nepal
famous food dishes here.
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Lumbini

Lumbini, situated near the India-Nepal border and in the lap of the Himalayas, is widely
known as the birthplace of Lord Buddha. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lumbini is home
to 2000- year-old stupas and various monasteries commissioned by dynasties of the past.
Travellers from around the world visit this city to learn more about Buddhism, engage in
yoga, and practice yoga.

GOA

Goa, a coastal state in India, is famous for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, rich history,
and scenic landscapes. Here are some of the top destinations to visit in Goa:

1. North Goa

 Baga Beach: Popular for its lively nightlife, water sports, and beach shacks.

 Anjuna Beach: Known for its vibrant hippie culture, flea market, and sunset views.

 Calangute Beach: One of the most popular beaches for tourists, offering a mix of
relaxation and activities.

 Candolim Beach: A more relaxed beach, perfect for a peaceful retreat with a variety
of water sports.

2. South Goa

 Palolem Beach: Known for its crescent-shaped beach and laid-back vibe, perfect for a
relaxed holiday.

 Colva Beach: A popular beach with white sands, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

 Benaulim Beach: A quieter beach, perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility.
 45

3. Historical and Cultural Attractions

 Basilica of Bom Jesus: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for housing the
mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.

 Se Cathedral: A stunning example of Portuguese colonial architecture, located in Old

Goa.

6. Nightlife

 Tito’s and Mambo’s: Famous clubs in Baga known for their vibrant nightlife scene.

 Club Cubana: Situated on a hilltop in Arpora, known as "the night club in the sky."

 Sinq Nightclub: Located in Candolim, it is popular for live music and DJs.

 Lush Goa: A trendy nightclub in Vagator, known for its great music and party
atmosphere.

7. Adventure Activities

 Water Sports in Calangute and Baga Beaches: Paragliding, jet-skiing, and banana
boat rides.

 Diving and Snorkeling: Locations like Grand Island, Butterfly Beach, and Palolem
Beach offer diving and snorkeling experiences.

 River Cruises: Take a river cruise on the Mandovi River, offering beautiful views,
especially at sunset.
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SHIRDI

1. Shri Sai Baba Temple

The primary reason for visiting Shirdi is the Shri Sai Baba Temple. It is the most visited
religious site in the town, where devotees gather to offer prayers and seek blessings. The
temple complex includes the Samadhi Mandir (the temple housing Sai Baba’s Samadhi),
Dwarkamai (Sai Baba's resting place), and Chavadi (where Sai Baba stayed at night).

2. Dwarkamai

Dwarkamai is a mosque where Sai Baba spent a significant part of his life. It is believed to be a
place of miracles, and devotees often visit to seek peace and blessings. Inside, there is a
sacred fire that has been burning since Sai Baba's time, and it is considered highly auspicious.

3. Chavadi

Chavadi is a small building where Sai Baba spent alternate nights. The site has a significant
place in the history of Sai Baba’s life. Every Thursday, the palki (palanquin) procession from
the temple to Chavadi is an important event, attracting a large number of devotees.

4. Sai Heritage Village

Sai Heritage Village is a cultural and religious park dedicated to Sai Baba. It showcases various
aspects of Sai Baba’s life through sculptures, a replica of the temple, and an exhibition about
his teachings and miracles. It’s a great place to understand the life of Sai Baba in a peaceful,
serene setting.

5. Saibaba's Museum

Located near the Sai Baba Temple, Saibaba’s Museum is home to a collection of items used by
Sai Baba during his lifetime, including his clothes, footwear, and other personal belongings.
It’s an insightful place to get a glimpse of Sai Baba’s simple, humble life.

KASHMIR

Kashmir, often referred to as "Paradise on Earth," is a region known for its breathtaking natural
beauty, including snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, pristine lakes, and vibrant gardens. It
 47

is a top tourist destination in India, offering a unique blend of scenic landscapes, historical
sites, and rich culture. Here are some of the must-visit tourist destinations in Kashmir:

1. Srinagar

 Dal Lake: Famous for its floating gardens, houseboats, and Shikara rides, Dal Lake is
the crown jewel of Srinagar. The picturesque landscape of the lake, surrounded by
mountains, is a sight to behold.

 Mughal Gardens: Srinagar is home to beautiful Mughal gardens like Shalimar

Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, known for their terraced lawns, water
channels, and vibrant flowers.

 Jama Masjid: An important historical mosque, known for its wooden architecture,
located in the heart of Srinagar.

2. Gulmarg

 Gulmarg Gondola: One of the highest cable cars in the world, the Gondola ride takes
visitors up to Apharwat Peak and offers stunning views of snow-covered mountains
and valleys.

 Skiing and Snow Sports: In winter, Gulmarg transforms into a skiing paradise,
attracting adventure enthusiasts. It’s also great for snowboarding, tobogganing, and
other winter sports.

 Golf Course: The Gulmarg Golf Course is one of the highest golf courses in the
world and is a beautiful spot during the summer.

3. Pahalgam

 Betaab Valley: Named after the Bollywood movie Betaab, this valley is known for its
lush greenery, crystal-clear streams, and snow-capped mountains, making it an ideal
spot for picnics and nature walks.

 Aru Valley: A small, picturesque valley offering stunning views of the surrounding
mountains and meadows. It’s perfect for trekking and nature walks.

 Baisaran Valley: Often referred to as "Mini Switzerland" of India, Baisaran offers

lush green meadows and majestic mountain views.
 48

 Lidder River: Known for trout fishing, the Lidder River is also a popular spot for
rafting.

4. Sonamarg

 Thajiwas Glacier: A major attraction in Sonamarg, this glacier is accessible by a

short trek and offers breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and valleys.

 Meadow of Gold: Sonamarg, meaning "Meadow of Gold," is surrounded by verdant

meadows and rivers, making it an ideal destination for trekkers and nature lovers.

 Fishing and Camping: Sonamarg is also a great place for fishing, camping, and
enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.

5. Kupwara

 Wular Lake: One of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes, Wular Lake is a serene spot
surrounded by mountains and is a haven for birdwatchers.

 Bangus Valley: Known for its untouched beauty, the Bangus Valley offers lush green
meadows and is a perfect spot for camping and hiking.

 Kheer Bhawani Temple: A revered Hindu temple dedicated to the Goddess Ragnya
Devi, located near the town of Tulmulla in Kashmir.

ANDAMAN

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a tropical paradise in the Bay of Bengal, offering
pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and rich biodiversity. These islands are an
ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those looking for a peaceful
retreat. Here are some of the top tourist destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands:

1. Port Blair

 Cellular Jail: The Cellular Jail (Kala Pani) is one of the most significant historical
sites in India. It was used by the British to imprison political prisoners during the
Indian independence struggle. The light and sound show at the Cellular Jail is an
unforgettable experience.
 49

 Chidiya Tapu: A popular spot for nature lovers, Chidiya Tapu is famous for its
sunset views, birdwatching, and peaceful beaches. It's an ideal place to relax and
enjoy nature.

2. Havelock Island

 Radhanagar Beach: Frequently ranked among the best beaches in Asia,

Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island is known for its white sand, crystal-clear
waters, and stunning sunsets. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

 Elephant Beach: Famous for its water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and
sea walking, Elephant Beach is a must-visit spot on Havelock. The underwater coral
gardens are mesmerizing.

3. Neil Island

 Laxmanpur Beach: Known for its natural beauty, Laxmanpur Beach offers clear
waters, white sand, and coral reefs, making it perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.

 Sitapur Beach: A secluded beach that is perfect for those seeking peace and serenity.
It is ideal for early morning walks and sunset views.

 Natural Bridge: A natural limestone formation near Laxmanpur Beach, the Natural
Bridge is a popular sightseeing spot offering picturesque views and photo
opportunities.

4. Ross Island

 Ross Island is a small island that once served as the administrative headquarters of
the British in the Andaman Islands. Today, it is a historical site with ruins of old
churches, colonial buildings, and lush greenery. The island also has a museum that
showcases its history.

 Wildlife: The island is home to various species of animals, including deer, peacocks,
and exotic birds.

5. Baratang Island

 Limestone Caves: Baratang Island is famous for its Limestone Caves, which can be
accessed by a boat ride through dense mangroves. The caves are known for their
stalactites and stalagmites formations.
 50

 Mud Volcanoes: Located near the village of Diglipur, the Mud Volcanoes in
Baratang are a natural phenomenon worth visiting.

 Parrot Island: A small island near Baratang, Parrot Island is known for the large
number of parrots that visit during sunset. It’s a serene place for nature lovers.

NEEMA TOURS AND TRAVELS IN INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION

AND ITINERIES

DUBAI

Dubai, known for its modern architecture, luxurious shopping, and vibrant entertainment, is a
top tourist destination in the Middle East. Here are the top 3 must-visit destinations in
Dubai:

1. Burj Khalifa

Description: The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building and an iconic symbol of Dubai's
skyline. Standing at 828 meters (2,717 feet), it offers stunning views of the city from its
observation deck on the 148th floor.

Top Attractions:

At the Top: The observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors provide panoramic views of the
city, the desert, and the Persian Gulf.

The Burj Khalifa Fountain: Located at the base of the tower, the fountain features daily water
shows with music and lights, offering a spectacular visual display.

Why Visit: The Burj Khalifa is a must-see for its breathtaking views, luxurious design,
and status as a global architectural marvel.

2. The Dubai Mall

Description: The Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world, with over 1,200
shops, an indoor ice rink, a massive aquarium, and countless dining and entertainment options.

Top Attractions:
 51

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: One of the largest suspended aquariums, home to
thousands of aquatic animals, including sharks and rays. Visitors can walk through a tunnel
for a 270-degree view of the marine life.

Dubai Ice Rink: A large Olympic-sized ice rink offering public skating and ice hockey games.

KidZania: An interactive city for children to role-play various professions, making it a family-
friendly attraction.

Why Visit: The Dubai Mall is a shopping paradise with a variety of entertainment
options, making it perfect for both shopping enthusiasts and families.

3. Palm Jumeirah

Description: Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island in the shape of a palm tree, one of Dubai’s
most ambitious engineering feats. It's home to luxury resorts, upscale dining, and beautiful
beaches.

Top Attractions:

Atlantis The Palm: A luxury resort with an underwater aquarium, water park (Aquaventure),
and exclusive dining experiences. The Aquaventure Waterpark is famous for its thrilling
rides, including the Leap of Faith waterslide.

The Pointe: A shopping and dining complex offering stunning views of the Atlantis resort
and the Arabian Gulf.

Trunk and Crescent: The Trunk is lined with luxury homes, hotels, and attractions, while the
Crescent offers exceptional views of the Dubai coastline.
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THAILAND

Thailand is a beautiful country offering a rich mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Here are
three of the top destinations in Thailand:

1. Bangkok

Why Visit: The vibrant capital of Thailand, Bangkok is a bustling city that combines modern
skyscrapers with historic temples and traditional markets. It's a hub of culture, food, and
entertainment.

2. Phuket

Why Visit: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Phuket is Thailand's
largest island and a top beach destination. It offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and luxury.

3. Chiang Mai

Why Visit: Chiang Mai is the cultural heart of Northern Thailand, known for its ancient
temples, vibrant markets, and nearby natural beauty. It's a great destination for history,
nature, and adventure lovers.

SINGAPORE AND MALAYSIA

Singapore and Malaysia are two incredible Southeast Asian destinations, each offering
unique experiences for travelers. Singapore is a modern, cosmopolitan city known for its
clean streets, iconic skyline, and cutting-edge attractions like Marina Bay Sands and
Gardens by the Bay. The Singapore Zoo and Sentosa Island offer family-friendly
experiences, while Chinatown
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and Little India provide a rich cultural immersion. Malaysia is a diverse country, with
vibrant cities like Kuala Lumpur, famous for the Petronas Twin Towers, and a thriving
food scene. Langkawi and Penang offer beautiful beaches and heritage sites, while
Cameron Highlands is perfect for nature lovers and tea plantations. Singapore boasts
world-class shopping on Orchard Road and a dazzling array of dining options, from street
food to Michelin-starred restaurants. Malaysia's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its mix
of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, with landmarks like George Town and the Batu
Caves.

SRILANKA

Sri Lanka is a stunning island nation known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes,
and beautiful beaches.

Visitors can explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura, home to sacred temples and
historical ruins, or visit the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a marvel of ancient
engineering.

The island is also famous for its lush tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, where visitors can
enjoy scenic views and tea-tasting experiences. Kandy, with its Temple of the Tooth, is a
cultural heart of Sri Lanka, offering a glimpse into its spiritual traditions.

For nature lovers, Yala National Park provides thrilling safaris to see leopards, elephants,
and other wildlife.

Sri Lanka's pristine beaches, like Mirissa and Unawatuna, are perfect for relaxation and
water activities.
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The island is also renowned for its vibrant local cuisine, offering delicious curries, seafood,
and tropical fruits.

BALI

Bali is a tropical paradise in Indonesia, renowned for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes,
and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the sacred temples like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot, or
immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of Ubud, famous for its rice terraces and art
scene. Bali is a haven for surfers, with world-class waves at Kuta and Canggu, while those
seeking relaxation can unwind at luxury resorts in Seminyak and Nusa Dua. The island also
offers a rich cultural experience, from traditional dance performances to unique ceremonies
and festivals. Adventurers can trek to the summit of Mount Batur for a sunrise hike, or enjoy
underwater adventures like diving and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Bali's warm
hospitality, exotic cuisine, and vibrant nightlife make it a top destination for travelers seeking
both relaxation and adventure.
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New Zealand, the USA, and Canada are three of the world’s most diverse and captivating
travel destinations, offering unique experiences for all types of travelers.

1. New Zealand is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, from the rolling hills of
Hobbiton to the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland National Park and the Southern
Alps.

2. The country is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering activities like bungee
jumping, skydiving, and trekking in places like Queenstown and Rotorua.

3. The USA is home to iconic landmarks such as the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone
National Park, and the Statue of Liberty, offering a wide range of outdoor, cultural,
and urban experiences.

4. Cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco showcase a mix of world-
class museums, entertainment, shopping, and history.

5. Canada offers spectacular landscapes, from the rugged beauty of the Rocky
Mountains to the pristine lakes of Banff and Jasper National Parks.

6. Vancouver and Toronto are vibrant cities known for their cultural diversity, scenic
waterfronts, and thriving arts scenes.

7. New Zealand's Māori culture adds depth to the travel experience, with opportunities
to learn about indigenous traditions through performances and guided tours.

8. The USA’s diverse regions offer something for everyone, whether it's the tropical
beaches of Hawaii, the historical charm of Washington, D.C., or the natural wonders
of the Pacific Northwest.

9. In Canada, visitors can explore cosmopolitan cities like Montreal and Ottawa while
also enjoying outdoor activities like whale watching in Vancouver or skiing in
Whistler.

10. All three destinations are also renowned for their warm hospitality, making them
must- visit countries for those seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable
experiences.
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ANCILLARY SERVICES OF NEEMA TOURS AND TRAVELS

1. Visa Assistance

 Visa Applications: Travel agencies assist clients in obtaining visas for international
travel by guiding them through the application process, helping with documentation,
and submitting forms.

 Visa Processing: Many agencies partner with visa processing centers to handle the
entire visa process for customers.

 Travel Insurance: Some agencies offer travel insurance services, covering trip
cancellations, health emergencies, and lost baggage.
 57

2. Airport Transfers

 Private Transfers: Travel agencies arrange private car, taxi, or limousine services for
travelers to and from airports, hotels, or other destinations.

 Shared Shuttle Services: For budget-conscious travelers, agencies may offer shared
shuttle services to popular destinations or hotels.

 Meet and Greet Services: At airports, travel agencies often provide "meet and greet"
services where a representative meets travelers upon arrival and assists with customs,
baggage collection, and transfer to the next destination.

3. Car Rentals

 Vehicle Rentals: Travel agencies often partner with car rental companies to provide
rental cars for travelers at their destination.

 Self-Drive or Chauffeur-Driven: Depending on customer preferences, agencies may

offer self-drive or chauffeur-driven options for more convenience.

 Car Hire Packages: Agencies may offer special deals or packages for long-term car
rentals or off-season bookings.

4. Guided Tours and Excursions

 Local Sightseeing Tours: Many agencies offer organized group or private guided
tours of local attractions at the travel destination.

 Adventure and Eco-Tours: These could include wildlife safaris, mountain treks,
diving expeditions, and cultural heritage tours.

 Customizable Itineraries: Travel agencies can curate personalized itineraries for

customers with specific interests, such as culinary tours, shopping experiences, or
historical site visits.
 58

5. Cruise Bookings

 Cruise Packages: Travel agencies book cruises for travelers, including ocean cruises,
river cruises, and luxury cruise lines.

 Cabin Selection and Upgrades: Agencies assist in selecting cabins based on

customer preferences and may offer upgrades or special deals.

 Excursions and Shore Activities: Agencies help book shore excursions or activities
during port stops, ensuring travelers get the most out of their cruise experience.

6. Group Travel Services

 Group Bookings: Agencies handle group bookings for corporate trips, family
vacations, school trips, or destination weddings.

 Custom Group Itineraries: Travel agencies can design special itineraries and
package deals for groups, including transport, accommodations, meals, and guided
activities.

 Corporate Travel Management: Many travel agencies offer services for managing
business travel, including flight bookings, hotel reservations, transportation, and
handling expense reports.

7. Event and Conference Arrangements

 Corporate Events: Agencies help organize conferences, seminars, team-building

activities, and corporate events at various destinations.

 Incentive Travel: Companies use incentive travel to reward employees or clients.

Travel agencies can organize destination events, team-building activities, and
accommodations.

 Wedding and Honeymoon Packages: Travel agencies often offer specialized

services for destination weddings and honeymoon packages, including venue
arrangements, travel, and local services.

8. Travel Insurance

 Comprehensive Coverage: Agencies often sell travel insurance that covers health
emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and trip interruption.
 59

 Specialized Insurance: Some agencies also offer more specialized insurance, such as
travel insurance for adventure sports or coverage for elderly travelers.

9. Hotel and Accommodation Services

 Hotel Bookings: Apart from flights, agencies handle hotel bookings and can often
secure discounts or upgrades for clients.

 Villas, Resorts, and Alternative Stays: Travel agencies may also arrange unique
accommodations like private villas, resorts, boutique hotels, or vacation rentals.

 All-Inclusive Packages: For luxury travelers, agencies may offer all-inclusive resort
packages that include meals, drinks, and entertainment.

10. Travel Itinerary and Planning

 Personalized Itineraries: Many travel agencies offer custom-built itineraries based

on the traveler’s interests and preferences, including sightseeing, shopping, and
activities.

 Destination Recommendations: Agencies provide expert advice on the best

destinations for a variety of travelers (families, couples, solo adventurers, etc.).

 Itinerary Updates: Agencies may offer mobile apps or online access to help travelers
keep their itineraries up to date.
 60

11. Currency Exchange and Travel Money

 Currency Exchange Services: Some travel agencies offer foreign exchange services
to help travelers obtain the local currency of their destination.

 Prepaid Travel Cards: Agencies may sell prepaid travel cards or assist in getting
forex cards for safe and easy money access abroad.

12. Destination Knowledge and Consultation

 Expert Advice: Travel agencies often offer consultations to help clients plan the best
possible experience at their destination, recommending restaurants, shopping, and
must-visit attractions.

 Travel Documents Assistance: Agencies assist in ensuring travelers have the

necessary documents for smooth travel, including passport checks and visa guidance.

13. Luggage Services

 Baggage Handling: Some travel agencies may offer baggage handling services,
including baggage delivery, excess baggage arrangements, or luggage storage.

 Luggage Insurance: Insurance for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage can also be
arranged.

14. Special Assistance Services

 Assistance for Disabled Travelers: Agencies may arrange for specialized services
like wheelchair assistance, special accommodations, and accessible transport.

 Family-Friendly Services: Providing amenities such as babysitting, children’s

activity packages, or kids’ travel kits.

 Pet Travel: Arranging travel for pets, including pet-friendly accommodations, flights,
and care services.
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A travel agency partnership with a restaurant can be a mutually beneficial collaboration that
enhances the customer experience and increases business for both parties. Here are some
ideas for how a travel agency and restaurant can partner effectively:

1. Special Travel Packages with Dining Experiences:

 The travel agency can offer exclusive travel packages that include meals at the
partnered restaurant, either as part of a tour or special event. This could be an
incentive to book a tour, where customers enjoy a curated dining experience after a
day of sightseeing.

2. Discounts or Vouchers for Travelers:

 Travelers who book with the agency could receive a discount or special offer at the
restaurant, encouraging them to visit during their trip. Conversely, the restaurant can
offer vouchers or coupons to diners that can be redeemed for travel discounts,
promoting cross-promotion.

3. Private Events or Themed Dinners:

 The travel agency could organize private events or themed dinners at the restaurant
for travelers, where the restaurant provides a special menu tailored to the destination
or the tour. This gives both partners a chance to showcase their offerings and create a
memorable experience.

4. Collaborative Marketing:

 Both businesses can engage in joint marketing efforts, such as co-branded ads, social
media campaigns, or website promotions. The restaurant could showcase the travel
agency’s tours in their establishment, and the travel agency could promote the
restaurant in their travel brochures or email campaigns.

5. Culinary Travel Tours:

 The travel agency could create special culinary tours that include visits to renowned
restaurants, food markets, and cooking classes, where the partnered restaurant plays a
central role. This could attract food lovers who wish to explore both local and
international cuisine as part of their travels.
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6. Customer Loyalty Programs:

 Both the restaurant and travel agency can offer loyalty programs where customers
earn points with one business that can be redeemed at the other. For example, diners
at the restaurant can collect points for booking travel services and vice versa.

7. Host "Tasting" or "Travel" Nights: Diversification of Business

 The restaurant could host special tasting nights or cultural events that focus on the
cuisines of different destinations that the travel agency offers. This allows potential
travelers to sample food from various countries and learn more about travel packages
to those locations.
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SUGGESTIONS

1. Leverage Digital Marketing

 Website Optimization: Create a user-friendly, professional website that highlights

the agency’s services, packages, and customer reviews. Ensure it's mobile-responsive,
as more people are booking travel through smartphones.

 Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Optimize the website with relevant keywords
(e.g., “affordable vacation packages,” “family-friendly tours,” “luxury travel deals”)
to rank higher on search engines like Google.

 Content Marketing: Regularly publish engaging content such as travel blogs, guides,
tips, itineraries, and destination spotlights. This positions the agency as an expert in
the field and helps with SEO.

 Social Media Marketing: Actively engage on platforms like Facebook, Instagram,

TikTok, and Pinterest. Share beautiful travel images, customer testimonials, special
offers, and real-time updates about travel packages or discounts. Use targeted ads to
reach specific demographics (e.g., adventure seekers, luxury travelers).

 Email Marketing: Build an email list to send out personalized offers, travel tips, new
packages, and exclusive discounts. Regular newsletters keep potential customers
engaged and encourage repeat bookings.

 Google Ads & Facebook Ads: Invest in paid advertising to target specific audiences
and promote special offers, seasonal discounts, and exclusive deals.

2. Offer Attractive Discounts and Deals

 Seasonal Offers: Create limited-time promotions during holidays, festivals, or off-

peak seasons to attract price-sensitive customers.

 Group Discounts: Offer discounts for group bookings (corporate trips, family
vacations, weddings, etc.). The larger the group, the more significant the savings.

 Early Bird & Last-Minute Deals: Promote early booking discounts or last-minute
deals to encourage spontaneous bookings.
 64

 Loyalty Programs: Create a rewards program where repeat customers can earn points
or discounts on future bookings. This builds customer retention and word-of-mouth
referrals.

3. Partnerships and Collaboration

 Collaborate with Hotels, Airlines, and Local Businesses: Establish partnerships

with hotels, airlines, car rental agencies, and local tour operators to offer bundled
deals and exclusive packages. Joint promotions can increase visibility and offer better
deals for customers.

 Corporate Partnerships: Partner with companies for business travel packages,

incentive travel, and corporate retreats. These partnerships often lead to long-term,
bulk bookings.

 Influencer and Blogger Collaborations: Partner with travel influencers, bloggers, or

vloggers who can promote your services to their large following in exchange for
discounts, free trips, or commissions. This helps in expanding reach to new
customers.

4. Create Unique, Niche Travel Packages

 Customizable Packages: Offer personalized travel packages that cater to individual

needs (e.g., family-friendly vacations, honeymoon trips, adventure tours, luxury
getaways).

 Themed Tours: Create special-interest tours, such as culinary tours, wildlife safaris,
yoga retreats, wellness vacations, and eco-tourism packages. Target customers with
specific interests.

 Destination Weddings and Honeymoons: Specialize in destination weddings and

honeymoon packages, which are high-margin services.

 Solo Travelers and Female-Friendly Travel: Develop packages catering

specifically to solo travelers or female travelers, offering safety, security, and unique
experiences.
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5. Customer Engagement & Reviews

 Provide Excellent Customer Service: Ensure that customer service is prompt, reliable,
and helpful. Happy customers are likely to return and recommend the agency to
others.

 Collect Customer Reviews: Encourage customers to leave reviews on Google, Yelp,

Facebook, or travel platforms like TripAdvisor. Positive reviews act as testimonials
and build trust.

 Referral Programs: Offer referral discounts or incentives to customers who

recommend your travel agency to others. Word-of-mouth referrals can be one of the
most powerful marketing tools.

 Interactive Engagement: Use social media polls, contests, and live Q&A sessions to
engage with your audience, offering small rewards like discounts or free travel
accessories.

6. Adopt Technology and Innovation

 Online Booking System: Implement an easy-to-use online booking system that

allows customers to browse and book flights, hotels, and tours directly through your
website.

 Mobile App: If feasible, develop a mobile app that allows customers to book, track,
and manage their travel plans with ease. The app can also offer personalized
recommendations based on travel history or preferences.

 Chatbots and AI: Use AI-driven chatbots on your website or app to answer customer
queries instantly, offer suggestions, and provide booking assistance 24/7.

7. Attend Travel Fairs & Expos

 Participate in Travel Expos: Attend or exhibit at travel trade shows, expos, or

conventions to network with industry professionals and meet potential customers.

 Local Marketing: Sponsor local events, community festivals, or charity functions to

gain exposure in your area and attract local travelers.

8. Emphasize Sustainability and Ethical Travel

 Eco-Tourism: With growing awareness about sustainability, offer eco-friendly travel

packages and promote destinations that focus on sustainable tourism practices.
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 Promote Responsible Travel: Encourage responsible travel by offering packages

that support local communities, wildlife conservation, and preservation of cultural
heritage.

 Green Certifications: Partner with environmentally conscious hotels and tour

operators and promote their green certifications, appealing to eco-conscious travelers.

9. Offer Value-Added Services

 24/7 Customer Support: Provide round-the-clock support to assist customers with

last-minute changes, cancellations, or emergencies during their travels.

 Travel Insurance: Promote and sell travel insurance as an add-on service to provide
travelers with peace of mind.

 Concierge Services: Offer concierge services to assist with restaurant reservations,

local excursions, private guides, or other special requests during the trip.

10. Target Niche Markets

 Senior Travelers: Develop packages catered to senior citizens, such as leisurely

tours, senior-friendly accommodations, and special health-related services.

 Adventure & Sports Travel: Focus on adventure tourism, such as trekking, scuba
diving, skiing, and wildlife safaris, targeting thrill-seekers.

 Family-Friendly Packages: Provide packages for families, including child-friendly

accommodations, activities, and transportation options.
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CHAPTER 5

ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

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ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats)

NEEMA TOURS AND TRAVELS located in the heart of the city that has been in business
for over 50 years providing domestic and international travel packages along with various
ancillary services helps in understanding its position in the market and identifying strategic
directions for growth. Here is an analysis based on the provided details:

Strengths

1. Established Brand Reputation:

Being in business for over 50 years gives the agency a strong reputation and
recognition in the market. Customers are likely to trust a brand with such
longevity, especially for both domestic and international travel services.

2. Experienced Workforce:

Over 50 years of operation means the agency has a wealth of experience in

handling various types of travel, customer preferences, and market changes.
Experienced travel consultants can provide expert advice to customers, which
is a competitive advantage.

3. Strong Customer Relationships:

Long-standing presence in the market allows the agency to build loyal

customer relationships, leading to repeat business and referrals. Personal touch
and customized services can create a strong bond with customers.

4. Central Location:

Being located in the heart of the city offers great visibility and accessibility,
attracting both local customers and international clients who may be looking
for a nearby travel agency.
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5. Comprehensive Service Offering:

The agency’s provision of both domestic and international travel packages

along with ancillary services (visa assistance, airport transfers, insurance,
etc.) makes it a one-stop shop, catering to all customer needs and offering
convenience.

6. Diversified Market Reach:

Offering both domestic and international packages allows the agency to cater
to a broader audience, from local travelers to international clients seeking
travel services.

Weaknesses

1. Limited Digital Presence:

While the agency has a long-standing reputation, if it hasn't fully adapted to

digital marketing, an outdated online presence could limit its reach, especially
with the rise of online travel platforms and agencies.

2. Small Business Scale:

As a small agency, it may struggle with limited resources compared to larger,

global competitors, especially in terms of advertising budgets, technology
investment, and negotiating large-scale travel deals.

3. Dependency on Traditional Business:

The agency may still rely heavily on traditional methods of booking (in-person
or over-the-phone bookings) and may not have fully embraced online booking
systems or digital customer service channels.

4. Inflexibility in Services:

Being a small agency with established practices, there could be a lack of

flexibility when it comes to customizing packages for very specific customer
needs, especially when compared to larger agencies or online platforms.
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5. Inconsistent Marketing Efforts:

If the agency has been more focused on repeat business and local clients, it
might not have put enough effort into marketing campaigns, targeting new
customer segments, or utilizing social media effectively.

Opportunities

1. Online Presence Expansion:

There is a significant opportunity to strengthen the agency’s digital presence

through a professional website, SEO, social media marketing, and paid ads.
Offering online booking systems and virtual consultations can appeal to the
tech-savvy traveler.

2. Targeting Niche Markets:

Developing specialized packages for niche markets like eco-tourism,

adventure travel, luxury travel, or solo travelers can attract new customers
who are looking for unique, personalized experiences.

3. Collaborations and Partnerships:

Forming partnerships with airlines, hotels, and local businesses can open up
new revenue streams. For example, exclusive deals on flights or
accommodations could help in offering more attractive packages to clients.

4. Loyalty Programs:

Developing customer loyalty programs or referral incentives can encourage

repeat business and attract new customers through word-of-mouth marketing.

5. Corporate and Group Travel:

Expanding into corporate travel management, incentive programs, or group

travel services (such as corporate retreats or group tours) could be a lucrative
opportunity to tap into a new, high-volume market segment.
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6. Sustainable Tourism:

Emphasizing sustainability in travel (such as eco-friendly tours and

responsible tourism practices) can attract environmentally conscious travelers.
This is especially relevant as more customers are prioritizing green travel.

7. Post-COVID Travel Surge:

With the world recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a surge in
pent-up demand for travel, especially international travel. Capitalizing on this
demand with flexible booking policies and promoting safe travel experiences
can yield significant profits.

Threats

1. Intense Competition:

The travel industry is highly competitive, especially with online travel

agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb providing a wide
range of options and convenience. These platforms often offer more affordable
pricing and a vast array of choices.

2. Economic Uncertainty:

Fluctuations in the global economy, inflation, or recession can have a direct

impact on customers’ willingness to spend on travel. An economic downturn
can reduce the demand for travel services, particularly luxury vacations or
international travel.

3. Rising Operational Costs:

The cost of doing business (e.g., rent, utilities, staff salaries, and other
operational expenses) may increase over time. If these costs are not managed
efficiently, it could impact the agency’s profitability, especially if it cannot
pass on the higher costs to customers.
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4. Changing Travel Trends:

Shifting consumer preferences, such as the rise of budget travel, solo travel,
and last-minute bookings, could affect the demand for traditional packages
and services offered by the agency. There is also an increasing preference for
experiential travel, which may require the agency to adapt its offerings.

5. Regulatory Changes:

New government regulations or travel restrictions (such as visa requirements,

safety measures, or tariffs) could impact the agency’s ability to offer certain
services or packages, especially for international travel.

6. Pandemic-Related Risks:

Ongoing or future health crises (such as COVID-19 or other global

pandemics) may lead to travel restrictions, reduced bookings, and customer
hesitation in traveling. Agencies need to be flexible with cancellation policies
and offer insurance to protect customers.

7. Technological Disruption:

The rise of AI-powered travel assistants, chatbots, and automated booking

engines poses a threat to traditional travel agencies. Failure to integrate or
offer technological advancements could result in losing customers to more
tech- savvy competitors.

Summary of the SWOT Analysis

 Strengths: Strong brand reputation, experience, loyal customer base, central location,
and comprehensive service offerings.

 Weaknesses: Limited digital presence, small-scale operations, reliance on traditional

methods, and potential inflexibility in service offerings.

 Opportunities: Digital expansion, targeting niche markets, partnerships, loyalty

programs, group/corporate travel, and sustainability.

 Threats: Competition from OTAs, economic downturns, rising costs, changing travel
trends, regulatory challenges, and pandemics.
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Strategic Recommendations:

1. Invest in Digital Transformation: Build a strong online presence, offer an intuitive

booking platform, and utilize digital marketing tools.

2. Enhance Customer Loyalty Programs: Develop incentives for repeat customers and
encourage referrals.

3. Diversify Service Offerings: Expand into niche markets (e.g., eco-tourism, adventure
travel) and corporate or group travel.

4. Adapt to Changing Travel Trends: Stay updated with new travel preferences (e.g.,
experiential travel, solo travel) and offer customizable packages.

5. Strengthen Partnerships: Partner with airlines, hotels, and local businesses to offer
exclusive deals and enhance package offerings.
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CHAPTER 6

CONCLUSION
 75

CONCLUSION

The study of Neema Tours and Travels reveals the company's remarkable journey in the
travel and tourism industry, showcasing its consistent growth, adaptability, and ability to
cater to both domestic and international travelers over the years. Through its comprehensive
range of services, including tour packages, hotel bookings, and other ancillary services, the
company has successfully navigated the evolving dynamics of the tourism sector. The
development and management strategies employed by Neema Tours and Travels reflect the
broader trends seen in the travel industry—embracing digital platforms, personalized travel
experiences, and efficient customer service models. As the tourism industry continues to
evolve, future innovations such as artificial intelligence, virtual tours, sustainable travel
options, and the integration of emerging technologies like blockchain for secure transactions
will play a crucial role in shaping the sector. Companies like Neema Tours and Travels, by
leveraging these innovations, will have the opportunity to stay competitive, enhance customer
satisfaction, and contribute to the continued growth and development of the travel and
tourism industry globally. The future of the travel industry holds exciting possibilities, and
the adaptability and forward- thinking approach of companies will be key drivers in its
success.
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CHAPTER 7

BIBLIOGRAPHY
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BIBLIOGRAPHY

WEBSITES:

1. Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

 Website: https://tourism.gov.in

 Overview: This official government portal provides information on tourism policies,

schemes, initiatives, and statistics for the Indian tourism sector. It is an authoritative
source for national-level tourism developments and promotional activities.

2. Incredible India

 Website: https://www.incredibleindia.org

 Overview: Managed by the Ministry of Tourism, this website promotes tourism

across India. It provides comprehensive details on destinations, cultural experiences,
government initiatives, and promotional campaigns.

3. Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH)

 Website: https://www.faithindia.org

 Overview: FAITH is a national umbrella organization of tourism, hospitality, and

travel trade associations in India. It works on policy advocacy and offers reports and
insights related to the Indian tourism and hospitality industry.

4. Tourism Research & Marketing (TRM)

 Website: https://www.tourism.gov.in/research

 Overview: The Ministry of Tourism also provides detailed research and statistical
data on inbound and domestic tourism trends, market performance, and sector
development. This portal is useful for accessing comprehensive industry data

5. Indian Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC)

 Website: https://itdc.co.in
 78

 Overview: ITDC is a public sector undertaking that promotes tourism and develops
infrastructure. The website offers information on tourism products, services, and
government initiatives, along with statistics and market insights.

6. National Accreditation Board for Hospitality and Tourism (NABH)

 Website: https://www.nabh.co

 Overview: NABH is an accreditation body that certifies tourism and hospitality

services in India. It provides useful resources related to the quality standards of
tourism operators, hotels, and other tourism services.

7. Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI)

 Website: https://www.taai.in

 Overview: TAAI is one of India’s oldest and most prominent associations for travel
agents and tour operators. The website offers industry news, updates, and insights into
the travel business in India, along with a platform for networking and training.

8. Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO)

 Website: https://www.iato.in

 Overview: IATO is the apex body of tour operators in India, promoting Indian
tourism globally. It provides resources on industry trends, tourism policy, and market
analysis, making it a key reference for the Indian travel industry.

9. Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI)

 Website: https://www.adtoi.org

 Overview: ADTOI is an association of domestic tour operators in India. It provides

information on the domestic tourism market, marketing strategies, and opportunities
for operators working within the country.

10. Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC)

 Website: https://thsc.in
 79

 Overview: THSC works on the skill development of the tourism and hospitality
sector in India. The website offers resources, reports, and training materials focused
on workforce development in the travel and tourism industry.

11. PATA India Chapter (Pacific Asia Travel Association)

 Website: https://www.pataindia.org

 Overview: The PATA India Chapter provides insights into the travel and tourism
sector in India and the Asia-Pacific region. It focuses on trends, marketing strategies,
and industry forecasts related to tourism in India.

12. Travel and Tourism Federation of India (TTFI)

 Website: http://ttfi.in

 Overview: TTFI is a federation that represents the tourism sector in India. It offers
news, research, and policy updates for tourism stakeholders, including government
and private-sector players.

13. Indian Hotel and Restaurant Association (AHAR)

 Website: https://www.ahar.in

 Overview: AHAR represents hotels, restaurants, and tourism service providers across
India. The website includes industry reports, news, and updates on hospitality trends
in the country.

14. MakeMyTrip – Industry Insights

 Website: https://www.makemytrip.com

 Overview: MakeMyTrip is one of India's largest online travel agencies. Its blog and
resource section provides insights into the latest travel trends, consumer preferences,
and market developments in India.
 80

BOOKS AND GUDIES

"The Art of Travel"

 Author: Vikram Seth

 Overview: Although not solely focused on India, this book includes profound
reflections on travel, exploring the essence of traveling within India and other parts of
the world. It's a philosophical exploration of travel, making it a great read for those
interested in the broader aspect of tourism.

"Indian Tourism: A New Perspective"

 Author: Dr. M. S. S. Bhat

 Overview: A deep dive into the evolution and future of tourism in India. The book
examines trends, government policies, challenges, and the growing tourism industry
in the country.

"Tourism in India: An Overview"

 Author: K. K. Sharma

 Overview: This book provides a detailed overview of the tourism industry in India,
its economic impact, government initiatives, and key challenges. It’s a great resource
for students or industry professionals looking for a deeper understanding of the
tourism sector.

“India's Incredible Destinations"

 Author: Sudeep S.

 Overview: This book offers detailed information about lesser-known yet incredible
travel destinations across India, including offbeat locations, cultural hotspots, and
hidden gems that are perfect for the curious traveller.