Dear Traveller,

This is that time of the year when we reflect on the last 12 months and make our resolutions for the New Year.
For tourism in India, 2008 began on an upbeat note and ended in tragedy. The black dates from 26/11 can never be forgotten by those of us who watched helplessly as terrorists took siege of Mumbai and killed hundreds of Indians and foreign visitors. For 3 days and nights they ravaged the icons...The Taj Mahal Hotel, the Oberoi and Trident , the railway station and prominent buildings. They left us shocked and grieving and the bells which ring in the New Year fell silent.
We were down but not out. With grit and determination Mumbai bounced back. The hotels revamped their public areas and repaired the damage in record time. They once again opened their doors to welcome guests in 2009. The courageous employees, who had risked their lives to save others and had lost friends and family, were there to serve you with the same devotion and hospitality.
As travellers, we pray for peace in the world and hope that many lessons have been learnt from this tragedy. We welcome tightened security...but let it not deter us from continuing with our tour plans or our thirst to see the world.
In this issue of 'Outbound' we take you to some islands in the sun....destinations that will calm your spirits and rejuvenate your body. Trinidad and Mauritius are already home to a number of Indians.....Cyprus and New Zealand are seldom visited by us but have so much to discover. Our writers give you a glimpse and invite you to savour the experience.
We focus on the impact of international sporting events on tourism and remind you to plan a visit to the FIFA football World Cup in South Africa. Do come back in time for the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi in October 2010.
India has always been a shopper's paradise. Now, with international brands available here, you can pack your bags with handicrafts to gift abroad and come back with souvenirs from your travel destinations instead of 'branded' clothes and accessories.
We wish you a hassle-free 2009. May all your travels be joyful and fruitful!

Chandni Luthra

Editor in Chief
luthrac@gmail.com