Cox & Kings, Air Deccan In Talks To Enter Into Exclusive Tie-Up

Reema Sisodia - Mumbai

Though lots has been discussed and debated about the importance of public-private synergy to promote tourism in India, it's the private synergy between tourism players that seems to be on a take-off stage. This development gets strengthened further, as Cox & Kings and Air Deccan are presently in talks to enter into an exclusive tie-up to promote and sell the Cox & Kings `Bharat Dekho' package. The `Bharat Dekho' package has till now worked in association with the railways. Jointing hands with Air Deccan is aimed at being a step ahead, wherein the packages would be sold with air travel facilities.

Speaking about this proposed venture, Vijaya Menon, head-corporate communication, Air Deccan, said, "There are talks that are taking place with regards to partnering with Cox & Kings on the promotions of the `Bharat Dekho' package, which has been till date primarily a rail travel package. Keeping in view the very nature of our airlines and the stress on being a no-frills carrier, the air travel facility can go well with regards to the `Bharat Dekho' package. These are pre-designed packages and we feel that the number inbound travellers who opt for this package can also avail our services. Cox & Kings as a company has been highly proactive and we are hoping for the tie-up to receive an official go ahead."

Cox & Kings have also shown interest to set up tourism facilitation centres and are in talks with some state tourism boards to put this plan into action. These facilitation centres aim to function as a one-stop-shop for travel related inquires and services from bookings to travel etc. It is aimed to facilitate information dissemination and further enhance travel and tourism services.