Carotrans Teams Up With Leading Middle East NVO, The CSS Group

Union, NJ, August 8, 2011 – CaroTrans, a leading global NVOCC (Non vessel operating common carrier) and ocean freight consolidator, announces today a new alliance with the CSS Group (Consolidated Shipping Services Group), a fast-growing NVOCC and total logistics company based and headquartered in Dubai, UAE. Together, these well-established NVOs will deliver the most comprehensive FCL (full container load), LCL (less than container load), and breakbulk, out of gauge and ro-ro cargo handling services to and from North America, Middle East, and Africa. CaroTrans has been involved with the Middle East trade for over 16 years.  Now with CSS, CaroTrans expands its service capabilities to include a seamless network of offices in the Middle East and Africa region, as well as a team of dedicated ocean transportation experts with local market experience and knowledge.  CaroTrans offers weekly direct consolidation services to Dubai from their primary gateways of Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, Charleston and New York.


“We are excited to be partnering with CSS, an industry leading NVO in the Middle East.  Both our companies have similar cultures focused on customer care, best in class service and the highest quality standards. This partnership enables us to provide the high level of service and support our customers are accustomed to,” said Greg Howard, CaroTrans, Global CEO.


The Chairman of CSS, T.S. Kaladharan, commented, “CSS is delighted to partner with CaroTrans.  The synergy of CaroTrans and CSS provides first class service, resources and expertise to the marketplace. The senior management teams of both companies have worked hard on this project and are 100% committed to making this a major success for our customers.”


CSS enhances CaroTrans’ position in the Middle East market and opens new markets including Iraq.  CaroTrans’ overall global network of import and export operations consists of the United States, Europe, United Kingdom, Africa, India, Japan, South America, Oceania, Asia and Middle East.  CaroTrans strategically partners with premiere neutral NVOs, regional leaders with strong brand recognition, in key global markets where it provides for the best customer service.


About CaroTrans


Established in 1979, CaroTrans International is one of the world’s leading NVOCCs providing global LCL, less than container load, and FCL, full container load services.  Through our network of offices in Asia, South America, Oceania, and the United States, along with our strong local partners, we offer a global reach that is truly unique.


CaroTrans is a people driven company with dedicated, experienced and knowledgeable team members who engage customers with passion and experience on a local level.


For additional information, please visit www.carotrans.com


About The CSS Group


Consolidated Shipping Group is one of the fastest growing NVOCC in the region it operates. Headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.  With a team consisting of over 750 experienced and dedicated professionals, across 20 offices, CSS has what it takes to meet your freight forwarding requirements, be it by sea, land or air. CSS has always adapted itself to the latest trends in the industry to offer efficient and most feasible solutions to its clients’ and associates.


For additional information, please visit www.cssgroupsite.com


CONTACT


CaroTrans  | Greg Howard   |  9082061067  |  gregh@carotrans.com

CSS Group  | Ken Dinnadge  |  971504564390  |  ken@cssdubai.com

CKL Communications  | Carol Lerner  |  9736356923  |  ckl.communications@gmail.com

CSS Group Marketing  | Amith Horra   |  971504567536  |  amith@cssdubai.com

Ritchie BROS.

As CSS Dubai works closely with Ritchie Brothers Auctioneers (RBA) we are pleased to recommend RBA who are committed to delivering first-class, innovative services that help their customers buy and sell equipment with confidence. On July 1st, Ritchie Bros. launched new equipment financing, warranty and insurance services.


Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Inc. (NYSE and TSX: RBA), the world’s largest industrial auctioneer announced the launch of a bundle of new valued-added services for its customers in the U.S., Canada and around the world. These new services, which include detailed equipment information, real-time auction results through www.rbauction.com, equipment financing, powertrain service warranties and property and cargo insurance, will complement and further enhance the wide range of customer services already offered while including comfortable first-class auction facilities, flexible bidding options, convenient on-site refurbishing services and a 21-language web site.


“Providing innovative business solutions that enable the world’s businesses to exchange equipment with ease and confidence has been our company’s mission since our inception, “says Steve Barritt, Regional Manager, Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers. “Our attention to detail and our constant endeavor to provide value added services to our customers has been the cornerstone of our success. The new services that have just been launched are evidence of how we’ve run our business for over 50 years, which is keeping our customers’ needs in mind.”


Detailed Equipment Information – launched globally July 1, 2011


Beginning July 1, Ritchie Bros. will collect and provide more equipment information online for all of its industrial auctions around the world. Available in 21 languages exclusively through Ritchie Bros.’ web site www.rbauction.com, detailed equipment information will include up to 50 high-resolution photographs of each item, allowing customers to clearly see key components of an item, along with a multi-point summary of those components and comments on basic functionality. This new service will enable customers to assess equipment online more efficiently and in greater detail prior to inspecting it at the auction site in person.


Real-time auction results through www.rbauction.com – launched globally July 1, 2011


Beginning July 1, Ritchie Bros. will provide real-time auction results for all customers viewing its auctions online through www.rbauction.com. Customers will instantly be able to see how much items have sold for and will be able to scroll back to see pricing for items they may have missed earlier in the day.


The Heavy Equipment Logistics division of CSS attended the two-day auction from July 19-20th, 2011. The team was able to network with the buyers and sellers at the auction while promoting its first class logistical solutions to the end user. The next RBA auction in Dubai, United Arab Emirates is scheduled for September 27-28, 2011.

Automechanika

CSS Dubai recently attended the largest ever edition of Automechanika Middle East, which was held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dubai, UAE.


The 9th edition of the largest international automotive aftermarket trade fair in the wider Middle East welcomed 17,310 trade visitors from 130 countries.


In terms of exhibitors, 1,102 companies featured products and services across the entire spectrum of the automotive aftermarket industry represented from 52 different countries, rendering it a truly international exhibition.


During this year’s event Dubai Customs revealed the latest import/export figures for 2010 and 1st quarter of 2011 within Dubai’s automotive aftermarket sector.  Dubai’s direct trade in the automotive aftermarket for Quarter 1, 2011 enjoyed an 11% increase over the same period in 2010.


“Whilst the event was full of potential freight and logistics business for CSS and its global partners, it was also an excellent opportunity to meet our existing and potential customers. In my opinion, its one of most important shows in the region for automotive aftermarket and we will certainly attend the next show,” says Ken Dinnadge, VP Business Development, CSS.


Ken Dinnadge, VP Business Development, Rahul Mathew, Key Accounts Manager Heavy Equipment Logistics and Hinna Hussain, Key Accounts Manager Projects, Oil & Energy represented CSS Dubai at the recent trade exhibition held in Dubai, UAE.


Some key facts from Automechanika Middle East 2011 :

Devas Chundan Lifts The 59Th Nehru Trophy

Devas Snake boat powered by Jesus Boat Club lifted the prestigious Nehru Trophy in a pulsating final match with Karichal at Punnamada Alleppey on the 13th of August, Saturday. Devas whizzed past Karichal Chundan of Freedom Boat Club and Muttel Kainakari of United Boat Club in a thrilling race witnessed by hundreds, including a large number of foreign tourists.


Over 4,000 oarsmen put on display their rowing skills in the event in which competitions were also held for different types of smaller craft. Union Health Minister Guhlam Nabi Azad had inaugurated the boat race, which was instituted in early 1950s, to commemorate Jawaharlal Nehru’s boat ride in the backwaters of Kuttanad area during a visit to the state.


The race of long and sleek ‘snake boats’, unique to Kerala and known as ‘chundam vallams in local parlance, is the highlight of the event in which 16 teams competed.


Enchanted by the beauty of the palm-fringed villages on the banks of the backwaters and the sporting spirit of the people, Nehru suggested that the boat race to be held on an annual basis.


He also sent the trophy to be given to the winning team. The boat race is held on second Saturday of August every year.


In the women’s category of Thekkan Odi, Devas retained the title for the third time. There were cheer leaders from all parts of the world in a special boat organized by the CSS Group Chairman, T. S. Kaladharan. “ We must win” that was what Kala said before the competition and we won.


The people of Kuttanad call it the water Olympics of Kerala. As the saying goes, “the people of Kuttanad village can live without food and water, but they cannot live without snake boat races”, which is a way of life here.

Homeward Bound

When it comes to moving one’s home or office, the enormity of the task is sure to set in. The hassle attached with packing precious belongings safely and moving them without damage to the new location is best to be left to the professionals. CSS Homeward Bound has made it their motto to ensure that your precious cargo is treated just as we would treat our own.


CSS Homeward Bound was set up by Consolidated Shipping Group to meet the ever-growing demand for relocation among the expatriate community. Over the years it has evolved into an experienced and professional team capable to deliver substantial services in dismantling, packing, loading, moving, custom clearing and unloading. Shipments can commence from anywhere within the UAE, and be delivered to any doorstep in the world.


“Providing relocation services to individuals and organizations in the UAE is quite exciting and rewarding as the CSS Homeward Bound team is able to interact with the diverse nationalities and expatriate community here in the UAE.  We learn new customs and cultures by working closely with our clients ensuring their precious sensitive belongings are handled in an error free manner. Our dedicated team of professionals offer various packing methods based on the job requirements says, Binita D’Cunha Assistant Manager, CSS Homeward Bound.”


“The CSS Homeward Bound staff assists and execute all areas of your move, whether home or office. Our qualified and well-reputed staff begins the process with a survey that determines your relocation needs whether locally or internationally and in turn are able to provide the most competitive rate for all of your relocation requirements”, she adds.


THE SERVICES OFFERED


Worldwide packing and moving of personal effects
Local and International removals (Homes and Offices)
Customs clearance and door – to – door services
Warehousing
Transportation
Industrial packing and lashing
Comprehensive insurance


THE FACILITIES / STRENGTHS


Own warehouse facility of over 10,000 sq. ft.
Operating a fleet of own trucks
Multilingual experienced professionals


CERTIFICATIONS AND ASSOCIATIONS


A member of the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM)
A member of International Association of Movers (IAM)
A member of Asian Relocation Association (ARA)


For further information
Please Contact :


Binita D’Cunha      Asst. Manager        binita@csshomeward.com
Savita Vinod     Sr. Coordinator        savita@csshomeward.com

Onam

Onam is the largest festival in the Indian state of Kerala. It falls during the first month of the Malayalam calendar which is Chingam (August–September) and marks the homecoming of the legendary King Maveli. The festival lasts for ten days and is linked to many elements of Kerala’s culture and tradition. Intricate flower carpets, elaborate banquet lunch, snake boat races, Puli Kali, and the Kaikottikkali dance all play a part in the festival. It can be undoubtedly said that these elements constitute the diversity, richness and colorfulness that no other festival can claim in the world.


Onam is an ancient festival which still survives in the modern times. Kerala’s rice harvest festival and the festival of rain flowers which fell on the Malayalam month of Chingam celebrated the annual visit from the under world (Pathalam) of the very noble Demon King Maveli (Mahabali). Onam is unique since King Maveli is revered by people of Kerala from prehistory.


According to the legend, Kerala witnessed its golden era during the reign of King Mahabali. Everybody in the state was happy and prosperous and the king was highly regarded by his subjects. He was that much highly regarded among the subjects that even the Gods under Indra became jealous of Mahabali, they approached Mahavishnu claiming that Mahabali is now equivalent to an Indra. Since a world with two Indras represents imbalance, Mahavishnu assumed the form of a dwarf, the Vamana avatara and tricked him to Pathalam, the Underworld. However, as Mahabali is equal to an Indra, he is to wait until the next Yuga where he would be the Indra. In the meantime, with the grace of Mahavishnu, Mahabali visits his people on an annual basis. Mahavishnu serves Mahabali as a gatekeeper in the world of Pathalam as the Lord himself serves his greatest devotees.


The most important things about Onam are the onakkodi, the new clothes worn on this day and onam sadya, a feast which is quite elaborate. This is usually a feast served on banana leaves and serves rice along with an array of 18 to 32 dishes. Traditional pickles and papadam are also served. Dessert is usually ‘payasam’, a sweet dish made of milk, sugar and other traditional Indian savories.


One can assume this way too as this could be the only day that around 40 million people around the globe eat the same food with Joy and Happiness.


CSS Group Wishes you a wonderful Onam.

FPS AGM heads to Indonesia in 2011

FPS Group announces that their annual AGM (Annual General Meeting) will be held at the Intercontinental Bali Resort in Indonesia, from October 18th to 21st 2011. The FPS Group AGM sets the stage for members around the globe to take part in discussions and network with their fellow freight forwarders from across the globe. The AGM allows for members to have the opportunity to discuss and develop the networks direction and development and also gain a deep insight into the group’s future developments.


The FPS AGM will be filled with one-to-one meetings, group meetings, networking sessions, gala dinners and social gatherings for all of its members.


Commenting on the theme “Together We are Strong”, FPS Chairman Kettivit Sittisoontornwong says: “Our forthcoming annual general meeting and conference continues to be an excellent opportunity to examine where the group is going and discover what the priorities are for developing our operations in the future.


“There can be no question that we have experienced some tough business conditions in the last couple of years. Members will have plenty of experiences to share about how they have come through and opportunities to share strategies about how they intend to expand in the future.”


CSS Group will be well represented during the AGM with active participation from its network offices. Dean Landers, General Manager CSS Kuwait, Jairam KR, Director CSS India, Rajesh Arora, Asst.GM Import CSS India, Narayan R T, General Manager CSS Bahrain, Siby C Kurian, General Manager CSS Dubai, & Rajagopal, Sr. General Manager CSS Dubai will be representing CSS Group for the FPS AGM 2011.


ABOUT FPS:


YOUR VISION IS OUR MISSION


The journey of a global network under a unified brand started in 1994 with the establishment of Famous Pacific Shipping Australia and was soon followed by Famous Pacific Shipping offices in Korea, Philippines, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Fiji, USA, Thailand, China, Netherlands and France. Many locations worldwide now operate under the FPS brand, as well as exclusive partners in most of the key trading nations.


The collective experience of the FPS group is huge; its members boast unrivalled financial stability and continuing commitment to investment in services and people.


The pursuit of excellence and the investment in the quality of staff is helping to develop into one of the world’s leading privately-owned exponents of freight forwarding and NVOCC services.

SPECIALISATION


The team specializes in ocean and airfreight forwarding, supported by overland operations, warehousing and supply chain management. With years of collective experience within the group, we’ve built businesses from a string of world-class companies.


OUR MISSION


“Through technology, professionalism and committed, highly qualified personnel we will provide clients with service excellence in our global operations. We strive to ensure that the FPS Group and its Network members are recognised as leaders and specialists in the provision of efficient and affordable International Freight Forwarding, Cargo Logistics Management and NVOCC solutions.”


For more information and news about FPS Group please log onto www.fps-group.net

The Free Zones And The Trade

Free Zones have been used internationally to promote export, attract foreign direct investment and to spur the economic growth. The generic free zone concept has evolved overtime. There is several Free Zones found internationally including export processing zones: EPZs (industrial free zones for export manufacturing industries), and commercial free zones (for trading, warehousing and export activities).


Several countries in Middle East were late adopters of Free Zones with the UAE amongst the leading Free Zones in this region. As one of the largest and fastest growing free zones, Jebel Ali Free Zone (“JAFZA”) aspires to be the international business hub of the Middle East. JAFZA has successfully been attracting investors in all business sectors from all over the world by sheer force of its unique value added offerings and propositions. More than 6000 of the world’s finest companies are currently based in JAFZA. The present JAFZA profile includes more than 150 of the Global Fortune 500 companies. It has seen a phenomenal 300-fold growth in its member strength growing from 19 companies in 1985 to over 6000 in 2007. Since the turn of this century the number of companies in JAFZA has grown by more than 350 per cent. The other free zones in the UAE include Airport Free zone, Hamriyah free zone, Sharjah Airport International, Ras Al Khaimah FTZ, Abu Dhabi Ports Company, Dubai Logistics City, Abu Dhabi Airport, Ajman and Fujairah Free Zone.


The key benefits of trading in free zones are the tax benefits, investment incentives and other value added advantages, which include:


  • 100% import/export tax exemption
  • No customs duty between free zones and option to pay the customs on the imported materials at the final destination
  • 100% Foreign ownership companies
  • Abundant and inexpensive energy
  • Online customer service (e-services)
  • A one stop shop facility for processing of all documentation including immigration, registration and licensing



CSS had a clear vision of establishing its own state-of-the-art facility in the Jebel Ali Free Zone to cater to the growing trends in the market and it became a reality in September 2002 with the commissioning of Consolidated Shipping Logistics Centre (CSLC 1) built within a sprawling area of 200,000sq.ft in the heart of the Jebel Ali Free Zone.


The supply chain management facility of CSS was set up in 2004, also situated in Jebel Ali Free Zone with an operational space of 140,000 sq.ft. with 22,000 CBM capacity along with CSLC 1 has become a landmark of success for the CSS Group.


Tariq Bin Khalifa, Director, Account Management – General Cargo, DP World, UAE Region said


“We believe the integrated multi-modal cargo transport process created by the cooperation between DP World, the UAE Region and Dubai Airports, as well as our Free Zone partners in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), is a logical step forward in Dubai’s continuous evolution as one of the finest trading hubs in the world.  It brings together a sea-land-air logistics platform that delivers true value to our common customers and benefits the growth of Jebel Ali Port, DWC-Al Maktoum International and Jafza.  Organizations like CSS Group who began their operations in 1995 have significantly contributed to the growth and development of Jafza and associated Free Zones amongst the freight forwarding and logistics fraternity.”

CSS Breakbulk New Orleans 2011

CSS Group will be showcasing its products and services offered at the 22nd Breakbulk Americas Transportation Conference & Exhibition to be held in New Orleans, Louisiana from October 25th until 27th, 2011 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Exhibitors include the world’s major carriers, forwarders and ports that handle specialized heavy-lift, project and Breakbulk cargoes.

One of the largest and most important gathering in the Americas for companies involved in the shipping of heavy-lift, project cargo and traditional Breakbulk cargoes,  Breakbulk Americas is the ideal platform for CSS to introduce its products and services. It is where shippers have the opportunity to meet and develop relationships with the leading specialized carriers, forwarders, ports, terminals and packers who have the expertise and resources to handle oversized cargoes with unique handling requirements.

In addition to a bustling exhibition floor, Breakbulk Americas will feature a 2-day conference with top speakers addressing industry issues. The in-depth program will delve into today’s most pressing Breakbulk transportation topics. Speakers will also discuss the hottest regions for Breakbulk and project cargo, and review sectors such as oil and gas, and other power generation markets.

Visit CSS at booth # 845

If you wish to set up an appointment at a specific time and date, kindly contact us by email: infoprojects@cssdubai.com

We look forward to meeting you in New Orleans.

For further information, please visit: www.cssgroupsite.com

CSS Proudly Congratulates Winners For The UAE Open Badmintion Tournament ’11

The India Club UAE Badminton Tournament was concluded on 17th June 2011. As one of the key sponsors in this prestigious tournament, it was truly a proud moment for CSS when Susanth Shekar, HR Manager, CSS was one among the chief guests who gave away the prizes for the winners. “On behalf of the CSS Group we congratulate all of the winners and appreciate the spirit of the participants, which made this event a brilliant success. We would like to thank the India Club for organizing a memorable tournament which we look forward to being a part of in the future” adds Susanth, HR Manager, CSS.

Lucky Winner

With our continuous view to uphold the freight-forwarding/logistics fraternity, CSS’ Thank-you incentive scheme towards our fellow-forwarders and customers, conceived two years ago, wherein one lucky name out of the scores of business cards that are dropped into the bowls which are placed at the D/O counter in the Corporate Head Office and CSLC-1, was to be drawn and rewarded with a gift, has been nothing short of successful.

The lucky winner rewarded for the months of July- August 2011 was Kutub from UTI, who walked away with Gift voucher worth 200 AED from LuLu Hypermarket, presented by Deepu S Dev, Marketing Coordinator, CSS Dubai.

New Roads For Logistics

DELHI


Delhi and the national capital region together contribute to huge export and import cargo for both sea and air. This attracts most of the major shipping lines, forwarders, NVOCC and custom agents to have their   corporate and Head offices in Delhi.  The market being of various commodities like electronics textiles, handicraft, automobiles, manufactured majorly by Samsung, LG, Moser Baer, Maruti, Honda Cars, the logistics and infrastructure have the huge potential to grow multifold.


Containerized cargo comprises of total 52000 TEUs, from Delhi and vicinity, with all the major ICDs having a share of their respective volumes. Earlier the cargo was primarily handled by ICD TKD and CFS PPG, but with the revolutionary growth of the Exim volumes this gave rise to the private players operating ICD and CFS in the vicinity.  Before 2003 there was one private CFS in Faridabad. Presently it has grown multifold with ICD operators such as ICD LONI; ICD DADRI; ICD GDL; ICD PATLI.  This indicates the growth of Exim cargo. Other projects which are coming up in Bhiwadi and Rewari, will also add to the Exim growth in the region.


Another important feature in the development of growth in logistics is the public private partnership, by which the Indian railways invited private players to operate containerized trains.  Prior to 2007 the only train operator was Concor. Now there are 15 companies in total, providing healthy and stiff competition and resulting in ending the monopoly of concor.  These additional players indirectly or directly benefit the trade in terms of services rendered and cost reduction. In addition to this, within next year, there will be a dedicated freight corridor from Delhi to Mumbai, which will be advantageous for speedy movement and double stacking of trains.  This will further enhance productivity, cost reduction, and speedy movement of cargo.


Apart from the growth in Exim throughput, infrastructure and private rail operators, there are still challenges being faced by the trade fraternity from the government, be it the charges levied by Indian railways, or the ban imposed by DGFT. These require a good amount of improvement. As compared to the global segment, our logistics cost is still the highest by 25%.  More transparency in decision making is required by the government bodies to further strengthen the trade.


In a very short span of time, the India operations of Console Shipping Services Pvt. Ltd, has grown by leaps and bounds. Console Shipping Services, Delhi comprising a team of about 30 qualified professionals have put in their hard work in making CSS Delhi   a known service provider among the trade with expertise in consolidation and FCL Movement both inbound and outbound under the leadership and vision of Nitin Bajpayee (General Manager-Export); Rajesh Arora (General Manager-Import) and a highly motivated team having excellent relations with the lines, and government bodies. CSS Delhi,   with this combination of experts and experienced team, will achieve success in becoming one of the most preferred service providers in North India.

Green Marketing

NOT A MYTH


Unfortunately, a majority of people believe that Green Marketing refers solely to the promotion or advertising of products with environmental characteristics. Terms like Phosphate Free, Recyclable, Refillable, Ozone Friendly, and Environmentally Friendly are some of the things consumers most often associate with Green Marketing. While these terms are Green Marketing claims, they are actually a part of a much broader concept, one that can be applied to consumer goods, industrial goods and services.


For example, around the world there are resorts that are beginning to promote themselves as “ecotourism” facilities, i.e., facilities that “specialize” in experiencing nature or operating in a fashion that minimizes their environmental impact. Thus Green Marketing incorporates a broad range of activities, including product modification, changes to the production process, packaging changes, as well as modifying advertising. Yet defining green marketing is not a simple task. Indeed the terminology used in this area has varied, it includes: Green Marketing, Environmental Marketing and Ecological Marketing.


However, Green or Environmental Marketing consists of all activities designed to generate and facilitate any exchanges intended to satisfy human needs or wants, such that the satisfaction of these needs and wants occurs, with minimal detrimental impact on the natural environment.


It appears that all types of consumers, both individual and industrial are becoming more concerned and aware about the natural environment. In a study of 16 countries, more than 50% of consumers in each country indicated they were concerned about the environment. Green marketing covers more than a firm’s marketing claims. While firms must bear much of the responsibility for environmental degradation, ultimately it is consumers who demand goods, and thus create environmental problems. One example of this is where McDonald’s is often blamed for polluting the environment because much of their packaging finishes up as roadside waste. It must be remembered that it is the uncaring consumer who chooses to dispose of their waste in an inappropriate fashion. While firms can have a great impact on the natural environment, the responsibility should not lay with them alone.


Ultimately Green Marketing requires that consumers want a cleaner environment and are willing to pay for it, possibly through higher priced goods, modified individual lifestyles, or even governmental intervention. Until this occurs it will be difficult for firms alone to lead the Green Marketing revolution.

Chairman’s Message

The traditionally acknowledged generation gap between youth and their elders seems to have taken on a new meaning. Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and texting have become the instant means of communication for the young whereas newspapers, radio, TV and the telephone remain firm favorites with others. Youngsters today have little knowledge of how things existed before blackberrys, iPhones and laptops. Techno-leapfrogging, and the fact that the new generation does not appreciate first hand what has gone before, means that our world is moving faster than any of us ever imagined.
Markets have changed dramatically over the past ten years, not only for shipping, but also for almost every other industry. Re-branding, product re-launching and new marketplace techniques have all been tried in order to appeal to the “instant-demand now” generation. However anyone who wishes to succeed and have impact, in this environment, requires maximum flair, unconventional creativity, extra energy and enthusiasm. This is easier said than done. Young people have potentially all these attributes. But it is teamwork, building on the experiences of others, that allows such innovation and creativity to be focused and developed in a meaningful and profitable way.
The success story of CSS Mumbai completing 4 years of operations in the tough Indian market conditions is an example of the relentless efforts from a young team. I express my hearty wishes to them. I hope that more young people will feel encouraged to bring forward new challenging ideas, suggestions and strategies. A welcomed enthusiastic response to such initiatives will take our company’s marketing and servicing skills to higher levels.  I am confident that, within CSS, we have the generational experience to encourage youthful zest and exuberance which will prove to be for our mutual benefit.
Lighthouse Focus
It gives me immense pleasure to introduce Devas Holidays & Travel Services India Pvt. Ltd. to you as a promoter of value tourism in India. A member of Devas Group of companies, DHTSI has given prominence to professionalism and created a name of their own in the travel world. Today, this Focus news letter will give more insight on the DHTSI activities and the unique packages they offer. Enjoy reading Focus to know more about Devas Holidays & Travel Services.

ABOUT DEVAS HOLIDaYS…

Devas Holidays and Travel Services India Private Limited is owned by the renowned CSS Group, pioneers in the shipping industry since 1995.

Devas Holidays – India’s experiential travel planner – welcomes travelers from around the world to fulfill their travel appetite with itineraries that would cover an entire expanse of distant lands and exotic people. Travelling with Devas Holidays brings you a life-changing inner experience instead of a su-perficial week-long trip across the continents. Each itinerary is punctuated with a unique mélange of adventure, relaxation and freshness that guarantees a deep-seated, never-before experience. Devas Holidays is headed by Arun Aniyan as General Manager who has a rich experience in the travel industry.

Devas is not about holidaying. It is about exploring, experiencing and enjoying as you holiday. Embrace hand-picked journeys that embark on the unknown realms of self-discovery and connect the inner self to the harmony of the universe. Relish the freshness in holidaying with Devas.

Devas offers unique tour packages that focus on the forgotten art of making tourists feel perfectly at home in a strange land.

When you entrust your travel plans with Devas, you need not worry about your air, rail or hotel reservations, sight-seeing, foreign exchange services, insurance cover and so forth.

We strongly believe in the Sanskrit saying, “Atithi Devo Bhavah” meaning that we treat our guests like God.

Come enjoy your holiday with us and let us make your vacation one that you will cherish lifelong.

South India As A Travel Destination

Experience the mystery and magic of South India tours with its fascinating history, rich culture and traditions. As you go down peninsular India, the fascinating land of temples unravels itself for you. The major destinations of South India include Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Whether you are an adventure lover, pilgrim or a wildlife enthusiast, South India has it all to enthrall you.

TEMPLES & MONUMENTS
The exquisite temples are the strongest lures and a wealth of South India. The historic monuments and temples can be found in large numbers in the states of South India. The intricately carved temples are feasts to the eyes and some of them you must visit include Guruvayoor Temple, Kalpathy Temple, Meenakshi Temple, Murugan Temple, Badami Cave Temple, Tirupati Tirumala Balaji and Saneeshwara Temple. These marvelous structures also stand testimony to the ancient heritage of the empires that greatly patronized the artistic pursuits. Moreover, South India has 4 UNESCO heritage sites: Thanjavur Brahadhiswara temple, Mamallapuram 7th & 9th century monuments and temples in Tamilandu; and ancient capitals Hampi & Pattadakal in Karnataka.

BEACHES
A travel to South India will remain incomplete without a visit to the palm fringed sandy beaches that accentuate the scenic charm of South India. The long coastline has conferred the South Indian states with numerous enchanting beaches and the most well-known among them being Nattika, Marari, Alappuzha, Kovalam, Varkala, Marina, Kanyakumari and Maravanthe Beach.

WILD LIFE
Apart from the beaches, South India is also well known for its captivating wildlife which attracts hordes of wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world. Watch the wild denizens roaming in their natural habitat freely along with a large number of migratory birds that frequent the protected forests of South India. Some of the acclaimed wildlife sanctuaries and national parks of South India are Periyar wildlife sanctuary, Kumarakom bird sanctuary, Calimere wildlife sanctuary, Bandipur national park, Kabini wildlife sanctuary, Mudumalai tiger reserve & sanctuary and Nagarhole tiger reserve.

FESTIVALS
The fairs and festivals of South India mirror the rich culture and tradition of the people of the region. Passed on from generations, these are still celebrated with utmost zest and excitement. You will find the people clad in their traditional attire and piously following the spectacular rituals. The festivities are marked by important occasions such as harvest, arrival of the monsoon and paying reverence to the worshipped deities. The famous ones are Onam, Aaranmula Boat Race, Pongal Festival and Natyanjali Dance Festival.

AYURVEDA
A gratifying holiday is greatly dependent upon the accommodations, and in South India you will find a wide range of hotels and resorts to chose from. The various hotels are located in important towns of South India and also provide resort and spa facilities. Kerala is a state that is particularly famous for its ayurvedic spa resorts.
With almost limitless things to take delight in, you are certainly going to have an unforgettable holiday in South India.

Monsoon Tourism In Kerala

Monsoon the word itself makes one happy. The intoxicating smell of the dry earth getting drenched, the splashing waters and the tiny paper boats sailing on the clogged water make monsoon the favorite season in India. After the long summer months when the heat and the dust ruled the roost, the monsoon is a welcome change. The farmers rejoice in the showers that promise to bring them prosperity.

Monsoon, the season of rainbows and raindrops is certainly not to be wasted indoors. The very special season of the year, monsoon brings everything to you fresh. The washed streets and the fresh leafs seem to smile with you. Monsoon is certainly not only about getting all dressed in rain coats, monsoon is a fun time. Getting wet, splashing and swimming or wading through knee deep waters, sailing paper boats are some little deeds you may indulge in.

All over we can see the joy of monsoon on everyone’s face. Kids dancing on streets, elders enjoying rain from the sit-out of their house and women preparing hot tea and coffee for everyone in the family are symbols of first monsoon rain. And what else, the people sharing a common umbrella on the public place. Feel the magic of monsoon…

Traditionally, the advent of the monsoon has meant a sharp fall in the number of tourists visiting Kerala. Monsoon in Kerala is the most enchanting season in India.

You may try out an ayurveda vacation in the monsoon too. The best way to rejuvenate your soul and replenish your body, ayurvedic is a great option for monsoon. Monsoon is a season for rejuvenation, when the people take special diet and ayurvedic therapies for rejuvenation and longevity. According to ayurveda, monsoon is an ideal season to take treatments for various diseases. The equable climate during monsoon and natural abundance of herbs and medicinal plants in its flora, Kerala is fast capturing the attention of International Tourists as a prime destination to visit during the monsoon season.

Moreover a ‘monsoon food festival’, a music festival and a theatre festival are just some of the events being planned during the monsoon season.

The romance of the monsoon, with its abundant rains and lush green landscape that has been rhapsodized down the ages in verse and song, can be promoted as a “unique” tourist attraction.

Destination Of Choice – Thekkady

Thekkady in Kerala is India’s largest wildlife sanctuary and a dream destination for any tourist visiting India. The 120 years old ‘Surki’ dam built across Periyar, Poorna in vedic parlance, is a major tourist attraction. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 777 Sq.Kms, surrounded by an artificial lake over an area of 25 Sq.Kms.

The country’s sole tiger reserve, Thekkady, with its bountiful treasures of tropical flora and fauna is the ultimate reservoir of many an endangered species and a rich tribal culture. Thekkady is a pleasant heaven on earth for those who love nature in its wild manifestations.

For travelers, Thekkady offers numerous hotels, homestays and resorts. The best of them are Spice Village with thatched roofs, inspired by local jungle dwelling architecture and Cardamon County – a holiday village set against picturesque mountain ranges amidst lush greenery with the captivating scent of cardamom wafting in the air providing all the comforts for a memorable holiday.

Both eco-friendly resorts capture the essence of Thekkady in all its natural splendors giving travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy wild life and a comfortable stay with all modern facililities.

Recommended Packages

THE BEST OF KERALA 11 nights
Cochin (1 night) – Munnar (2 nights) – Thekkady/Periyar (2 nights) – Alapuzha (1 night) – Mararikulam (5 nights) – Cochin

AMAZING NORTH KERALA 6 nights
Cochin (1 night) – Guruvayoor & Athirappally (1 night) – Wayanad (2 nights) – Bekal (2 nights) – Cochin

TROPICAL PARADISE – LAKSHADWEEP ISLANDS 9 nights
Cochin (1 night) – Lakshadweep (7 nights) – Cochin (1 night)

WILDLIFE SAFARI TOUR –8 nights
Cochin (1 night) – Wayanad (1 night) – Bandipur (2 nights) – Oooty (2 nights) – Munnar (1 night) – Kumarakom (1 night) – Cochin

GRAND TOUR  – KERALA & TAMILNADU 14 nights
Cochin (1 night) – Kumarakom (1 night) – Munnar (2 nights) – Thekkady/Periyar (2 nights) – Madurai (1night) – Rameshwaram (1 night) – Kanyakumari (1 night) – Kovalam (4 nights) – Trivandrum (1night)

Testimonials…

Julie Hiltunen – Bloomington, MN
“I just wanted to let you know that your outstanding service and all of the work you put into our vacation made our trip really special. Every detail was taken care of so we just had to jump on the plane and show up. What a great way to travel!! Your service was a definite WOW for us. Thanks for everything – we will definitely contact you for our next vacation!!!”

Lauren Lanfrank– Roseland, NJ
“I can only say great things about your employees, your package options and your prices of course(!). Email and telephone communication was prompt, complete and friendly.  It is nice to have that personal connection when web searching.  My questions were addressed and my needs were certainly top priority. I will definitely be using your agency in the future and will recommend it to my friends and associates. Thanks very much.”

Team Devas

The team of DHTSI has experts from travel and hospitality fields. The main role in every company is the operations team – the people, who help to select the right package that best suits your needs or create a new one. We had built our operational team over several years by choosing the most experienced people who are passionate about tourism in India.

All members of our operations team are highly professional and have many years of experience in travel & tourism field.

Together with years of experience and ample knowledge, we can create and organize for our clients unique journeys, based on their needs and expectations.