Kuoni Travel (India) Pvt. Ltd and Abacus International, Asia’s leading provider of travel solutions and services, today announced a strategic partnership further accelerating Abacus rise as India’s premium GDS (Global Distribution Network).

Kuoni will leverage the full suite of Abacus solutions including Abacus WorkSpace and Abacus PowerSuite as well as benefit from access to it’s business process and strategy consulting practice.

Speaking on the partnership Rajiv Duggal, Managing Director Kuoni India said, “Abacus is in the fore front in bringing next generation products, technologies and services to the Indian agency community. As a market leader Kuoni India focuses on new technologies and products that can further propel our growth and leadership. We have been impressed by Abacus’ next generation point of sale system, it’s portfolio of mobile solutions, and it’s mid and back office suite. Abacus solutions will enable Kuoni India to deliver a differentiated customer experience for our travellers as well as drive material increases in business productivity.”

“Abacus is proud to establish a relationship with a market leader like Kuoni India”, said Mr Brett Henry, Vice President India, Abacus International. “The Kuoni leadership team places high value on innovation, and product and technology leadership and it’s a great endorsement to be selected as their preferred product and technology partner. “Our position is to be the premium provider in the marketplace. We are really out to do something different – challenging the status quo!”

SOTC announced the launch of packages for Diwali holidays with exciting offers. Travelers can plan a vacation to destinations like Australia, South Africa, Dubai, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, Europe, Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore.

The travelers could choose from:

• 6 days Malaysia & Singapore package starting from INR 59,999/- per person
• 11 days Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore package starting from INR 79,999/- per person.
• The Amazing Europe holiday package which includes 8 days holiday to France, Belgium, Germany & Switzerland starting from INR 99,999/- per person.

All the packages include airfares, meals, accommodation and sightseeing. The above packages have Wife and Child goes free offer.

Other packages include:

• 7 days Australian Experience package including Gold Coast and Sydney for INR 99,999/- per person
• 11 Days South Africa & Shamwari including Port Elizabeth, Shamwari, Knysna, Outshroon, Cape Town, Sun City and Johannesburg starting from INR 140,999- per person
• 8 day Egyptian Wonders including Cairo, Alexandria, Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu & Luxor INR 75, 650/- per person
• 10 day Vietnam & Cambodia package including Hanoi, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City & Siem Reap for INR 1, 09,999
• 7 day Sri Lanka with Maldives including Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Colombo and Maldives for INR 59, 150 The above packages include return airfares, meals, accommodation, sightseeing, transfers and services of an SOTC Tour manager and exclude visas and taxes.

SOTC also has Super Cost Saver packages to:

• Thailand at Rs. 7899 per person for 5 days
• Hong Kong at Rs. 20,649 for 4 days
• Dubai at Rs. 16,149 per person for 4 days
• Sri Lanka at Rs.13, 999 per person for 4 days
• Singapore at Rs. 19,299 per person for 4 days

The above packages include best of sightseeing, hotel accommodation and return economy class airfare and exclude Visas and Airport Taxes.

To book call 18002093344 or visit www.sotc.in

Kuoni India was felicitated with the Award for Innovation in Operations (Travel/ Tour Operators) category at the prestigious GMR Express TravelWorld Awards 2011 on July 27 at the Taj Palace Hotel, New Delhi.

Kuoni India was conferred with this honour for the high quality and exceptional standard of the entry submitted. The award was presented by Shri Subodh Kant Sahai, Hon’ble Union Minister of Tourism to Rajiv Duggal, Managing Director, Kuoni India.

The winner for this category was selected by a panel of esteemed, non-partisan jury having exceptional domain knowledge. Kuoni India’s nomination was evaluated based on:

• Submission of detailed case-study
• Presentation to the jury members
• Innovative and out-of-the-box initiatives
• Path-breaking accomplishments in the travel industry

On receiving this accolade, Rajiv Duggal, Managing Director Kuoni India said, “We are extremely honoured to be felicitated with the prestigious GMR Express Travel World Award for our contribution to the travel industry. This success has been possible because of Kuoni India’s commitment towards innovation and excellence. The award serves as an inspiration to introduce innovative strategies and achieve new milestones.”

The GMR Express TravelWorld Awards are regarded as the travel and hospitality industry's most respected travel awards. The awards, presently in their 8th year, were conferred across 17 categories.

SOTC, Kuoni India’s outbound travel brand, was felicitated with StarBrands 2011 Award on July 6, 2011 in a gala ceremony organized by Planman Marcom at JW Marriott Hotel, Mumbai. Kashmira Commissariat COO Outbound Division Kuoni India received the award on behalf of SOTC from Anisha Motwani, Director & Chief Marketing Officer, Max New York Life Insurance and Rohit Manchanda, Director, Planman Consulting. SOTC is the only tour operator to be conferred with this honour.

Rajiv Duggal, MD Kuoni India said, “It is indeed an honour to be conferred with the StarBrands Award. We believe in creating memorable and distinct holiday experience for travelers and this award serves as a testimony to the fact that SOTC is a highly trusted and respected brand in the travel industry. The award serves as an inspiration for us to conquer new heights through innovative strategies.”

Star Brands is an annual property of Planman Marcom based on research with the consumers to select the strongest brands that created the most impact in the year. The Indian Council for Market Research (ICMR) conducted research across India on four parameters, namely, Product, Innovation, Recall Perception and Impact on Consumers to select the StarBrands. A brand is chosen as a StarBrands by the consumers and is regarded as a symbol of utmost trust and faith of consumers. StarBrands are regarded as influential tool for the Most Impactful Brands in the country.

A discount of Rs. 25000 per family

Kuoni India’s outbound travel brand SOTC announced the launch of an exclusive 7-day package for Israel-a destination with something to offer for everyone. The 7-Day Jewels of Israel holiday package from SOTC includes a guided tour to the fascinating destinations of Caesarea, Haifa, Acco, Rosh Hanikra, Jerusalem, Dead Sea, Eilat, Tel Aviv and Jaffa. This package offers the travelers a plethora of choice which includes shopping, exploring historically and archeologically significant sites and enjoying the lovely beaches and a dazzling nightlife.

The package offers travelers an opportunity to experience the sun, beaches, exotic corals and marine life of Eilat, nightlife in Tel Aviv, magical mysteries of Jerusalem and a chance to simply unwind in the Dead Sea - the lowest health spa in the world. The package includes return airfare, hotel accommodation, extensive sightseeing and meals as per itinerary, all transfers, travel insurance and services of an SOTC Tour Manager. To make the launch special for holidaymakers, SOTC announced a host of exclusive deals. The travelers could avail a discount of Rs. 25000 per family on an advance booking.

SOTC Sports and Premium TicketHub today announced its tie-up that will offer sports tours around the world. This innovative and path breaking partnership will offer customers great deals, discounts, exciting offers to various sports events exclusively for the SOTC customers. These extraordinary sports events would include European Football, UEFA Champions League, FIFA 2010 World Cup, ATP Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments (Australian Open, French Open,Wimbledon and US Open).

Kashmira Commissariat COO Outbound Division Kuoni India said "It gives me immense pleasure to associate with Premium TicketHub. Sports Tourism in India is growing and this association will intensify our efforts to offer the best packages exclusive for our esteemed customers for the most popular sports events."

Premium TicketHub is known for providing excellent customer service and premium seats without charging customers a premium price. The company's highest priority is to provide tickets to events that are often unavailable to consumers and the company is pleased to be working with the market leader SOTC Sports in offering access to some of the most in-demand sports events around the globe.

To book with SOTC Sports call 09920089666.

SOTC, India’s No. 1 holiday brand today organized an exclusive event for its esteemed customers in the presence of cricketer Sourav Ganguly at The Oberoi Grand Kolkata.

Customers who had booked during the SOTC Durga Puja Holiday Bazaar got an exclusive opportunity to meet and greet Sourav Ganguly. Booking with SOTC earned the customers an exclusive evening with their very own Dada, Sourav. Special souvenirs autographed by Sourav Ganguly were gifted to each of the SOTC custom present at the event. Customers also got the opportunity to take photographs with Sourav Ganguly during the celebrations and they were mesmerized by the sheer presence of Sourav Ganguly.

Kashmira Commissariat COO Outbound Division Kuoni India said, "Being the pioneers in the travel industry, it is our responsibility to take the lead and innovate, understand the customer and add value to the basic offering that we sell. In keeping with this SOTC introduced the Durga Pooja Holiday Bazaar that offered the best packages with attractive discounts and offered exceptional value and service to make them feel wonderful about being with us."

Daniel D’ Souza, Business Head, SOTCWorld Famous Tours said, "I would like to thank the customers for choosing SOTC and giving us an opportunity to be of service. Durga Puja Holiday Bazaar offered unbelievable packages at attractive prices specially designed for the Kolkatans with a unique opportunity to meet Sourav Ganguly. I would like to thank our esteemed customers for their support in making this evening a grand success and we look forward to introducing many more attractive packages for our customers."

Offers available during the Durga Puja Holiday Bazaar:

• 5 dayAdbhut Mauritius - Offering two nights additional plus Rs. 15,000/- off per family.
• 7 dayAitihasik Egypt –ADay trip to Alexandria, Sound and Light Show in Cairo and Rs. 25,000/- off per family.
• 6 day Mishti Malaysia with Singapore – Rs.19,000/- off per family.
• 10 day Shundor Far East – Rs.19,000/- off per family.
• 15 day Grand Tour of Europe - Cash discount of Rs 30,000/- per family.

Customers could also avail of Monsoon Special Tours to South Africa, Australia, Maldives and many exciting destinations.

For more details call SOTC at 1800 209 33 44.

SOTC and Tourism Malaysia in association with The Times of India has announced the 'The Great Malaysia Holiday Bazaar' that offers an unbelievable holiday to Malaysia starting at just Rs. 19,999. This 5 day Magnificent Malaysia package return economy class airfare, hotel accommodation, daily breakfast and dinner, half-day city tour of Kuala Lumpur, return airport transfers and overseas travel insurance. Airport taxes & visas are payable extra. SOTC guarantees that this is the best deal and is available only for a limited period at the The Great Malaysia Holiday Bazaar.

Customers booking online could avail an additional discount of Rs. 500 per person. Also there will be a lucky draw for customers booking on this package and they could win digital cameras from Nikon. Customers booking the package to Malaysia at The Great Malaysia Holiday Bazaar could opt for any of the nine exciting add on packages to destinations that include 2 nights in Penang priced at Rs. 4,850, 2 nights in Pangkor Island priced at Rs. 4,850, 2 nights in Sabah-Kota Kinabalu priced at Rs. 5,800, 2 nights in Langkawi priced at Rs. 6,250. SOTC also offers add-on packages to Cameron Highlands, Taman Negara, Tioman Island & A'Famosa Resort.

Speaking on the The Great Malaysia Holiday Bazaar Kashmira Commissariat - Head Outbound Division Kuoni India said 'The Great Malaysia Holiday Bazaar is the perfect platform to promote Malaysia as one of the ideal destination for a memorable holiday. The offer presented as part of the Malaysia Holiday Bazaar is an incredible deal. This fabulous offer for Malaysia coupled with attractive prizes is our way to express our appreciation towards our esteemed customers. With the co operation and support of Tourism Malaysia we are sure to make this holiday bazaar a huge success.'

Malaysia is as diverse as its culture. Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves. Multiculturalism has not only made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise, it has also made Malaysia home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that they love celebrating and socialising. One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts, and five-star hotels sit several metres away from ancient reefs. From exotic islands and beaches to bustling cities and towns, from serene lakes and rivers to cool highlands, Malaysia is set to leave the traveler delighted. For the perfect holiday full of surprises, eclectic cultures and natural wonders, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.

To book a holiday with SOTC to Malaysia call 1800 209 33 44 or visit sotc.in

SOTC has announced the launch of 'Monalisa' - The All-Women's Tours to Europe & Far East. This all inclusive tour is one-of-its-kind designed exclusive for the women travelers.

On the Mona Lisa tour the traveler would enjoy various benefits unlike any other tour:

• Experience the grandeur of Paradis Latin evening show in Paris
• Visit Louvre and see the original Monalisa
• Fragonard perfumery souvenirs in Paris
• Souvenirs from every country and many more exciting moments
• Enjoy the popular Thai massage
• Experience the unique foot massage with fish reflexology therapy
• Bargain shopping at China Town
• Explore the 'Venice of East' on a river cruise
• Cookery show and fashion show
• Stay in a luxurious villa at A'Famosa Resort and many more exciting moments
• Experienced Tour Manager
• Accommodation at the finest Hotels
• Delicious buffet Indian Meals everyday
• Choice of vegetarian and non-vegetarian menu's on tour
• In Switzerland, enjoy food prepared by our very own Chefs, specially flown in from India
• Special discounts to shop for bargains
• Pre-Departure meeting before the tour
• A free 'Travel Bag' specially designed for foreign travel
• Horse Bus Ride through the historic city of Antwerp
• Visit to The Fragonard Perfume Museum that holds an impressive collection that re- traces over 3000 years of the history of Perfume
• Visit to Malacca with a driver/guide in a multi-decorated trishaw
• Ride at Sentosa Luge
• Learn to cook the local cuisine and be a part of the cooking competition on the tour
• Souvenirs to be gifted in each country
• Holiday Abroad on Easy Monthly Installments

Packages offered include the 15 day Monalisa's Amazing Europe with an offer price of Rs. 1,99,999, 10 day fun filled Monalisa's Orient with an offer price of Rs. 89,999, 7 day Monalisa'a Vibrant Far East with an offer price of Rs. 69,999. These packages include return airfare, accommodation, lunch, dinner, breakfasts, visa, taxes and tips. The well informed tour manager will be your friend, philosopher and guide on tour. The Monalisa packages are designed to celebrate the spirit of Indian woman. They include safety and comfort, more time for shopping, sampling cuisines, learning new cultures and making the whole experience just like you - one in a million.

Monalisa has been inspired by Leonardo da Vinci, the world famous 16th century portrait that stands for eternal feminine mystique. At SOTC we believe that women's travel needs are unique and distinctive and hence the experience requires to be designed with a feminine perspective.

Monalisa - All Women's Tours has been created with precision and meticulous planning and is designed for woman traveler who seeks much more in her holidays, with all comforts and security of a package tour which also has loads of fun and excitement. SOTC understands that women travelers want to get away from the humdrum of life and be themselves with likeminded women companions. SOTC's Monalisa tour offers an opportunity to learn new cuisines, culture, be on the shopping spree with no one to hold them back.

Hurry! Limited departures and attractive discounts available.

For bookings call on (022) 6618 8000/ 1800 209 33 44 or log on to www.sotc.in

SOTC has been appointed as Tour Partner to Kingfisher Airlines for the DLF IPL 2009 to be held in South Africa. SOTC offers fans the opportunity to enjoy the cricket match to take place in South Africa from April 18 to May 24 2009.

SOTC Sport Abroad has introduced various attractive packages with exclusive offers. The SOTC Sport Abroad packages start from Rs. 44,900 for 3 nights 4 days and include accommodation, match tickets, airfare, and sightseeing. As part of the SOTC Sport Abroad package the cricket enthusiast could watch all the 8 teams playing with each other at the IPL.

Commenting on being appointed as the Tour Partner to Kingfisher Airlines Kashmira Commissariat - Head Outbound Division Kuoni India said, "It is prestigious to be appointed as the Tour Partner to Kingfisher Airlines for the DLF IPL 2009. SOTC Sport Abroad has introduced special packages with unbelievable offers. In addition to the excitement of cricket our packages offer special sightseeing to some of the world's most breathtaking cliffs, canyons and wilderness of South Africa. The uniqueness of our packages will be that these will be coupled with the excitement of cricket and sightseeing. Sport Abroad Division's experience and existence in the market for 6 years makes sure that you catch the best action both on and off the field."

P. Srinivas Sr. VP Special Interest Tours said, "SOTC Sport Abroad offers attractive well designed packages that promise to be as uniquely remarkable as South Africa itself. Being a specialist in sports tourism SOTC has a dedicated team of professionals across India who specialize only in sports events. These personnel are trained to understand the requirements, and offer innovative suggestions to differentiate your tour from the rest. Our services go beyond the aspects of mere travel and we take care of every single tedious detail."

With SOTC Sport Abroad one can cheer the Indian team and catch all the excitement of the cricket carnival, while SOTC takes care of all the needs of the traveler. Travel, accommodation, match tickets with seats of the traveler's choice, and an exciting tour of the city SOTC offers the best.

For bookings call 9920089555/ 9920089666

SOTC BhramanMandal has announced the launch of 'Mona Lisa' - The All Women Tours exclusive for the Maharashtrians. This all inclusive tour is one-of-its-kind designed exclusive for women travelers with well known celebrity Jitendra Joshi playing the exclusive and perfect host on tour.

On the Mona Lisa tour the traveler enjoy various benefits unlike any other tour. Some of these include:

• Marathi speaking experienced Tour Manager.
• Accommodation at the finest Hotels.
• Delicious buffet Indian Meals everyday.
• Choice of vegetarian and non-vegetarian menu's on tour.
• In Switzerland, enjoy food prepared by our very own Chefs, specially flown in from India.
• Special discounts to shop for bargains.
• Pre-Departure meeting before the tour.
• Afree 'Travel Bag' specially designed for foreign travel.
• Horse Bus Ride through the historic city ofAntwerp.
• Visit to The Fragonard Perfume Museum that holds an impressive collection that re-traces over 3000 years of the history of Perfume.
• Visit to Malacca with a driver/guide in a multi-decorated trishaw.
• A unique and revitalizing therapy, complete with a foot massage at Fish Reflexology.
• Ride at Sentosa Luge.
• Learn to cook the local cuisine and be a part of the cooking competition on the tour.
• Souvenirs to be gifted in each country.
• HolidayAbroad on Easy Monthly Installments.
• Entertained by Maharashtra's favourite - Jitendra Joshi, who will make one laugh and will engage the traveler in interesting games and contests.

Packages offered include the 15 day Monalisa's Europe with an offer price of Rs. 1,69,000, 10 day fun filled Far East with an offer price of Rs. 79,949, 7 day Magical Malaysia with Singapore with an offer price of Rs. 60,449. These packages include return airfare, accommodation, lunch, dinner, breakfasts, visa, taxes and tips. The well informed tour manager will be your friend, philosopher and guide on tour. Mona Lisa has been inspired by Leonardo da Vinci, the world famous 16th century portrait that stands for eternal feminine mystique. At SOTC we believe that women's travel needs are unique and distinctive and hence the experience requires to be designed with a feminine perspective.

Mona Lisa AllWomen Tours has been created with precision and meticulous planning and is designed for woman traveler who seeks much more in her holidays, with all comforts and security of a package tour which also has loads of fun and excitement. SOTC understands that women travelers want to get away from the humdrum of life and be themselves with likeminded women companions. SOTC's Mona Lisa tour offers an opportunity to learn new cuisines, culture, be on the shopping spree with no one to hold them back.

For bookings call on (022) 6618 8000/ 1800 209 33 44 or log on to www.sotc.in

About BhramanMandal:

On 14th January in the year 2002, BhramanMandal was born. It was the auspicious day of Sankranti. But more importantly, it was a moment of reckoning for Tourism. As SOTC, India's Greatest Packaged Tour Company launched BhramanMandal, a packaged tour division exclusively to cater to the needs of Maharashtrians. While designing the tours, every single need of Maharashtrians was kept in mind. Be it their eating habits or their likes and dislikes, every aspect was taken into consideration. But it was the experience of travelling with them, that was even more enriching, for both, the travellers and us. Within just over a year of our existence, BhramanMandal has become a household name among Maharashtrians. And this has been possible because of all of those fellow Maharashtrians who chose to travel with us.

SOTC in association with Singapore Holiday Bazaar presents “The Great Singapore Holiday Bazaar” starting at just Rs. 22,950 with attractive offers like never before. Now is the time to visit Singapore. Small in size but big on adventure, Singapore ranks as one of the region's top destinations for family vacations. With its world-class attractions, fascinating festivities, fabulous food, great shopping and a clean, safe and family-friendly environment, it's an upsized holiday experience you won't soon forget.

The exclusive special offers for SOTC Customised Holidays include free ride on HiPPO city tours and tickets to Underwater World. The amazing offer for Escorted Group Tours includes free tickets to St James Power Station and UnderwaterWorld.

The Customized Holidays 4 day 'Jewels of Singapore' holiday is priced at only Rs. 22, 950 includes return airfare, accommodation with breakfast, airport transfers, city tour on seat-in-coach basis, travel insurance and HiPPO Cruise.

The Escorted Group Tours 4 day 'Best of Singapore' package attractively priced at only Rs. 25,450 includes return airfare, accommodation with breakfast, airport transfers, Sentosa Island with entry pass for Images of Singapore, Cine Blast, Sky Tower, Luge Ride and Song of Seas with seat-in-coach transfers, Indian dinners, travel insurance and services of tour manager. Attractive offers and with prices starting as low as Rs. 22,950 it's one affordable way to plan your holiday.

So hurry and book your holiday before Feb 28 to avail of this fabulous offer. Offer valid for first 100 customers only.

For further details visit our site www.sotc.in or call 1800 209 33 44.

Tourism Australia in association with SOTC Corporate Tours, India's No. 1 MICE tour operator and Qantas organized an exclusive event for the leading corporates at TATA Experimental Mumbai. The event was attended by over 80 leading corporates.

The evening commenced with cocktails followed by Ashwin Gidwani's 'The Alchemist,' a theatre adaptation of Paulo Coelho's modern classic. This was followed by a photo exhibition curated by Kalpana Shah of the Tao Art Gallery.

The event offered an exclusive opportunity to showcase Australia as an emerging MICE destination. Corporates are looking at new emerging destinations for their MICE programs. SOTC Corporate Tours will promote Australia as a perfect destination for MICE events that include conventions, meetings and incentive trips. From Melbourne to Gold Coast, from the Great Barrier Reef to Sydney, Australia is a destination full of excitement and surprise. The continent's convention and incentive offerings are beyond excellence.

To position Australia as a prime destination for corporate meetings and incentive trips SOTC Corporate Tours, the specialist in MICE segment has innovative offerings. With a dedicated team of over 125 professionals across the country, SOTC can handle a MICE event of any magnitude, across any part of the world. From travel arrangements to visa facilitation, accommodation at the finest hotels to gala nights, from product launches to complete event management, you will always get the best. And since SOTC is the undisputed leader in the MICE segment, the buying clout will get you the best possible deals.

Over the years, companies across the world have realized the potential of travel incentive schemes. Travel is perhaps the most preferred leisure activity, and travel incentive products serve as immense motivation for internal and external customers. These products have great inspirational value, and those who qualify for overseas trips tend to perform better than their peers.

Kashmira Commissariat, Head Outbound Division Kouni India said “We are very pleased to associate with Tourism Australia and Qantas. I would like to thank Tourism Australia and Qantas for their support in making this evening a grand success. This association will help us to further intensify our promotional efforts on promoting Australia as a MICE destination. We are aiming to serve corporates to Australia specifically for MICE during 2009, with a lot of unique and exciting experiences and entertainment options, which would be exclusively offered by SOTC for its clients. Being a specialist in MICE Tours, we understand that our business associates and their customers need to be taken care of. Our services go beyond the aspects of mere travel and we take care of every single tedious detail. SOTC's personnel are trained to understand the requirements, and offer innovative suggestions to differentiate your tour from the rest."

P. Srinivas, Sr. Vice President, Special Interest Tours, SOTC said, "It gives me an immense pleasure to associate with Tourism Australia and Qantas. The Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Events (MICE) sector is an important segment of tourism. Being a specialist in MICE tours, we understand that Indian corporates prefer more than mere monotonous solutions for their MICE tour. From travel arrangements to visas, accommodation at the finest hotels to gala nights, from product launches to complete event management, you will always get the best with SOTC.

Taking your family on a Europe tour has never been this rewarding. SOTC has launched an exclusive offer wherein you pay just for yourself and book a Europe tour with SOTC’s World Famous Tours and take your wife and child for free. The package cost includes return airfare, hotel accommodation, extensive sightseeing, and meals as per itinerary, all transfers, travel insurance and services of a SOTC Tour Manager. In addition to this fantastic offer you get a cash discount of Rs. 30000 per family for the 15 day Grand Tour of Europe and a cash discount of Rs. 40000 per family for the 19 day Magnificent Europe package amongst various other packages. Visas & Taxes payable extra.

If you would like to visit South East Asian destinations then you can opt for SOTC’s 4 day Sensational Singapore package, 5 day Sensational Thailand package, 5 day Sensational Malaysia package, 6 day Sensational Orient package or a 10 day Sensational Far East package and get never before discounts of upto Rs 15,000. These packages includes return airfare, hotel accommodation, sightseeing, daily breakfast, buffet Indian dinners, transportation, travel insurance and services of a SOTC Tour Manager. This offer is valid on travel till March. Visas & Taxes payable extra.

For a holiday to Singapore, SOTC has launched a special package wherein you could choose the package attractively priced at Rs. 9999 + USD 289 per person in twin sharing. The package includes economy class return airfare, 03nights accommodation with breakfast, return airport transfers, Sentosa Island with entry pass for Images of Singapore, Cine Blast, Sky Tower, Luge Ride and Song of Seas with SIC transfers, 03 Indian Dinners, Travel Insurance, Services of Tour Manager. This offer is valid on travel till March.

BhramanMandal a packaged tour division exclusively to cater to the needs of Maharashtrians was launched on the auspicious day of Makarsankranti. Celebrating its 7th anniversary BhramanMandal has launched an exclusively offer wherein you get a discount of Rs. 35000 on opting for a 18 day Sampoorna Europe Tour and Rs. 5000 on opting for a 14 day Avismarniya Europe Tour. While designing the tours, every single need of Maharashtrians is kept in mind. Be it their eating habits or their likes and dislikes, every aspect is taken into consideration. The SOTC Europe BhramanMandal tour is available at an all inclusive price with no hidden costs.

The package includes return airfare, hotel accommodation, sightseeing, daily breakfast, lunch, buffet Indian dinners, all transportation, overseas medical policy services of a SOTC Tour Manager, tips, visas and taxes.

SOTC’s BhramanMandal tours of Europe have been designed keeping in mind the budget of the traveler without compromising on sightseeing and basic holiday needs.

On the BhramanMandal tour you enjoy various benefits unlike any other tour. Some of these include:

• Marathi speaking experienced Tour Manager will escort you from Mumbai to Europe & back to Mumbai.
• Pre – Departure Meeting.
• Bag per family + per person Passport pouch and cap.
• Tea /Coffee packets as per the duration of the tour.
• Special Maharashtrian Cuisine on tour.
• Snack hamper.
• Senior Citizen Discounts.
• Cruise on Lake Lucerne with Dinner and Swiss Folklore show.
• Carry Zero Money on tour.

For more details call SOTC World Famous Tours Toll Free on 18002093344 or visit www.sotc.co.in/ www.sotcbm.com

SOTC Do-It-Yourself Holidays offers Malaysia Bonanza package for 4 nights 5 days for Rs. 21,500 with an offer wherein you can take your companion at 50% or you can take your child free. The package also offers free visit to outdoor theme park- Genting Highlands. The package includes return economy class airfare ex Mumbai, accommodation, Daily buffet breakfast, airport transfers on seat in coach basis, Half day city tour of Kuala Lumpur.

For more details contact Toll Free Number: 1800 209 0108 or visit www.sotcdiy.com

SOTC Sport Abroad has introduced packages for the ICC World Twenty20 England 2009 tournament. These packages start from Rs. 59,800 onwards. Airline reservation, hotel accommodation, match tickets, and an exciting tour of the city; we give you the best. Our experience and existence in the travel & tourism industry for over 60 years, and a network of 68 offices, 110 Preferred Sales Agents and 3500 Travel Agents make sure you catch the best action both – on and off the field.

To book your tour and for special deals for corporate incentive groups, please call us on 09920089555/ 666 or e-mail at sotcsports@kuoniindia.com

SOTC Sport Abroad appointed as the Official Travel Agent for ICC WORLD TWENTY20, ENGLAND 2009

It’s time once again for one of the most entertaining sports event on planet earth. The ICC World Twenty20 cricket. The stage has been set. And this time it’s England – the Mecca of cricket, that’s home to 14 days of cricket extravaganza.

The action this year promises to be better than before. With India trying to defend its title, the cricket carnival is sure to be full of excitement and expectations. And what better way to experience the thrill than by being amidst the action with SOTC Sport Abroad. You can cheer the Indian team to repeat history and catch all the excitement of the cricket carnival, while we take of all your travel needs. Airline reservation, hotel accommodation, match tickets, and an exciting tour of the city; we give you the best. Our experience and existence in the travel & tourism industry for over 60 years, and a network of 68 offices, 110 Preferred Sales Agents and 3500 Travel Agents make sure you catch the best action both – on and off the field.

With packages starting from Rs. 59,800 onwards, you can now book your tour to the ICC World Twenty20 England 2009 tournament and get ready for a larger than life cricket experience. To book your tour and for special deals for corporate incentive groups, please call us on 09920089555/ 666 or e-mail us at sotcsports@kuoniindia.com

SOTC Trade Fair Tours announces packages for Agritech

SOTC Trade Fair Tours India’s leading brand catering to the Business Travel Market and appointed as the authorized representative of Agritech 2009 has introduced packages for the Agritech Trade Fair. This is the 17th International Agricultural Exhibition that will take place from May 5- May 7, 2009 at The Israel Trade Fairs & Convention Center in Tel-Aviv. 6,500 guests from abroad including 25 ministers and deputy ministers heading official delegations are expected to be present at the International Agriculture Exhibition - Agritech 2009.

The SOTC Agritech Trade Fair package includes:

• Return airfare - Mumbai/ Tel Aviv/ Mumbai.
• Airport taxes.
• Airport hotel transfers.
• Hotel accommodation.
• Daily breakfast.
• Daily Indian Dinners.
• Daily fair ground transfers.
• Visa.
• Overseas medical insurance.
• Tips & portage.
• Services of English/ Hindi/ Marathi speaking SOTC tour manager.
• Complimentary SOTC travel kit.
• Local city tour.
• Visit to technical sites/ Kibuttz and meet with the Head of Plant Protection and Inspection Services.

SOTC has access to the leading Israeli companies in the Agro field and can organise visits to different sites during your visit to Agritech. Some of these include:

• Drip Irrigation System: Drip Irrigation was invented in Israel in the 60's. There are numerous Drip Irrigation companies in Israel that are spreadout geographically around different parts of Israel.
• Dairy Industry: Israel is a country that started out with barely a cow to its name has the world's largest selection of soft, spreadable white cheeses as well as a wide array of distinctive dairy goods.
• Grapes/ Banana/ Mango Farming: Israel consumes over 100,000 tons of bananas per year, or an average of 10 kilos (22 lbs) of bananas per person per year. Israel's total mango exports reached 11,000 MT last year, while total production was at a below average level of 23,000 MT. This year a normal volume is expected, with more than 30,000 MT.

SOTC Tour Highlights & Value Additions for Agritech Trade Fair:

• Accommodation at the best hotels.
• Passengers fly on the finest airlines.
• Indian meals.
• Tour Manager at every step to guide.
• Secure Deposit Scheme (“SDS”) wherein you just pay Rs. 21,000/- as booking amount for your SOTC tour and avail the “SDS” and claim your booking amount back if you happen to cancel the tour 30 days prior to departure date.
• International SIM Card with Free incoming calls, no rentals, no deposit and no activation fee.
• Avail a special discount of Rs. 1000/- on all SOTC domestic tours.
• SOTC has access to the leading Israeli companies in the Agro field and can organise visits to different sites during your visit to Agritech.

Or further details mail us at tradefairs@kuoniindia.com or call Toll Free No: 1800 209 4777, Nashik (0253) – 2579707, 23181125, Pune (020) 26160198/ 56

SOTC achieved yet another milestone by being conferred the Best National Outbound Tour Operator Award at the Galileo Express TravelWorld Awards 2006-07, one of the most respected and premium travel and tourism industry awards in the country. The award was presented by Mr. Praful Patel Civil Aviation Minister to Mr. Sunil Gupta, Chief Operating Officer of SOTC.

This is the fourth consecutive year for SOTC to receive the Galileo Express TravelWorld Award. In the past SOTC has been awarded the Best Outbound Tour Operator by Galileo Express Travel & Tourism for 2003-04, 2004-05 & 2005-06.

Keeping in sync with SOTC’s new brand philosophy “Expect More”, this award will further strengthen the company’s current leadership position in the minds of the customer.

On receiving the award Mr. Sunil Gupta COO SOTC said, “It is indeed a great honour to receive the prestigious Galileo Express TravelWorld Award for the 4th successive year. This Award is an endeavour to recognise and encourage excellence in the Indian travel & tourism industry. This award is dedicated to our customers, who “Expect More” from us and to Team SOTC who strive hard to give it to them. The excellence we strive for would not be possible without the strong support of our partners and associates and we are thankful to them and look forward to a fruitful relationship in future as well.

Kuoni Travel Group, India achieved a key milestone by being conferred the Best National Outbound Tour Operator Award at the Galileo Express TravelWorld Awards 2008. The award is one of the most respected and premium travel and tourism industry award in the country. This award also marks a record for Kuoni being accepted and endorsed as the only luxury travel brand to receive the award. Kuoni has won the distinction of winning the accolade for five years in succession. The award was presented by MP Bezbaruah, Former Secretary (Tourism), Government of India and Permanent Representative (Honorary), UNWTO to Mr. Sunil Gupta, Chief Operating Officer Kuoni & SOTC.

The Galileo Express TravelWorld Awards continue to be endorsed by the Indian travel and tourism fraternity as the most credible industry award. By achieving this award, Kuoni Travel Group, India will further reinforce its position as being the pioneer in the travel industry committed to introducing new developments, innovative product lines and initiatives that are well received by the esteemed customers.

In the words of Zubin Karkaria, CEO & Managing Director, Kuoni India & South Asia, "coming on the back of the Kuoni Group being awarded the World's Leading Tour Operator at the 2008 World Travel awards for the tenth time, this award reinforces Kuoni's position as the best tour operator in the world as well as in India – especially in the luxury travel segment. We are honored to have received this most prestigious accolade".

Kuoni won three prestigious awards in August 2008 to add to it’s long list of awards won, and re-emphasized its position as India’s largest travel company.

• Ms. Ambika Soni, Union Minister for Tourism, presented Kuoni with Today’s Traveller’s Diamond Award on August 25.
• Mr. L. K. Advani, former Deputy Prime Minister, presented the Business Superbrand India award to SOTC on August 22.
• Dhiren Savla, CIO – Kuoni India, won IDG India’s CIO magazine’s 2008 CIO 100 Award also in August.

Today's Traveller, the premier business & leisure travel magazine awarded Kuoni India the Diamond Award for Most Successful Travel Company of 2008 and Ms. Ambika Soni, Union Minister for Tourism presented the award on August 25 at a glittering function in New Delhi attended by senior dignitaries of the travel & tourism industry. Kuoni joined other leading travel industry stalwarts like Interglobe, ITC Hotels, among others who won awards in various categories. The theme of the awards night was “Bollywood and its influence on outbound travel”, and Mr Yash Chopra, one of the icons of Bollywood was the guest of honour.

Superbrands aim to identify and acknowledge those companies which have established the finest reputation in their respective fields. The Business Superbrands India 2008 award was presented to SOTC (the flagship brand of Kuoni India) by Mr. L K Advani, Former Deputy Prime Minister & Leader of the Opposition on August 22. The award ceremony also saw the unveiling of the Superbrands book featuring many of the brands voted as Superbrands including SOTC.

IDG India’s CIO magazine has recognized Kuoni as a recipient of 2008 CIO 100 Award. The annual award program recognizes organizations that exemplify the highest level of operational and strategic excellence in information technology (IT). This year's award theme, "The Bold 100", recognizes those executives and organizations who embrace great risk for the sake of great reward. These organizations are playing not just to survive, but to win.

Kuoni Travel Group, India is a 100% subsidiary of the CHF 4.1 billion Kuoni Travel Holding Ltd. – one of the world’s leading premium tour operators. Founded in 1906, and head-quartered in Zurich, Kuoni has operations across the world today. It was named “World’s Leading Tour Operator” at the World Travel Awards in 2007 – the ninth time it has earned this distinction.

With total turnover of INR 2,000 crores, 347 offices and 2,900 employees, Kuoni India is India’s largest travel company. Kuoni India has five core activities are Tour Operating (Leisure) Travel, Destination Management Services, Business Travel, Visa Services and Travel Education.

SOTC has announced the launch of special packages for Durga Puja holidays. SOTC offers 3 exclusive packages namely Misti Malaysia with Sinagpore, Shundor Far East and Ratnomay Europe.

The Misti Malaysia with Singapore for 6 days to Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highland and Singapore starts at INR 46,990 per person. The Shundor Far East package includes 10 days packages to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highland and Singapore starting from INR 52, 990 per person. The special Durga Puja package also offers Ratnomay Europe packages. This grand holiday includes a 12 days tour to England, France, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland and Italy starting from INR 89,490 per person.

All the packages include airfares, meals, accommodation and sightseeing.

To book call 18002093344 or visit www.sotc.in

Kuoni India’s outbound travel brand SOTC Sports announced the launch of an exclusive 4 days package for travellers to feel the adrenaline rush at the Formula 1 - Singtel Singapore Grand Prix. Starting from 23rd to 26th September, this package is designed to experience Singapore Grand Prix weekend festivities at its best. Travelers can witness the city with electrifying parties, thrilling race themed events and the splendid art, culture and architecture of the city.

SOTC offers a variety of tailored 4 days 3 nights’ packages for the travelers. The basic packages include accommodation stay and Zone 4 walkabout pass to Marina Bay circuit starting for INR 27000 per person. The premium packages include accommodation in selective hotels with options of 3 day passes for Pit and other grandstands. SOTC heightens the Grand Prix experience with entry to the exclusive after race F1 party at Amber Lounge and the most awaited Linkin Park live concert on 25th September post the main race event. The package includes return airfare, hotel accommodation, meals as per itinerary, access to the most happening after race parties and private return air transfers in Singapore.

For this action packed Grand Prix weekend SOTC also offers a special corporate package for groups including accommodation in luxurious hotels like Swisstotel and Fairmont Hotel with options of rooms facing the track. These packages will be customised according to the size and preferences of the traveling groups and calls for groups planning a perfect racing weekend get together.

SOTC Sports aims to offer its customers a never before sporting experience.

Contact Details- sotcsports@kuoniindia.com