Facts and Figures About Pakistan’s Hospitality Industry That Will Make You Awed

In the midst of the improved security conditions in the country and emergence of various travel websites that offer various hospitality related services, Pakistan is seeing an upsurge in the inbound tourism over the years.

More people are traveling to Pakistan to explore the various natural and man-made aspects of sheer beauty that this South Asian country possesses. Be it three of the world’s highest mountain ranges in the north or the widely stretched coastal belt in the south, one of the world’s largest necropolis at Makli to the stunning fresh water sources at various areas, Pakistan is home to many diverse tourist places that attract people from all walks of life.

To further allure tourists to visit the country, Jovago Pakistan is back with the second edition of Pakistan’s hospitality report for the year 2017. The best online hotel booking website brings you an exclusive article so that you can know and feel awed about various facts and figure from 2017’s hospitality industry report.

E-commerce industry
With a growing youth population that is tech savvy, cheap smartphones and 3G/ 4G services, the e-commerce industry in Pakistan has a huge potential to grow and become a major revenue injector to the GDP. This particular industry is expected to reach over US$600 million by 2017.

Internet projection
Amidst the better internet connection through the availability of 3G and 4G internet and affordable smartphones, there has been an increase in internet penetration which is currently over 30 million users today. It is projected that this increase in internet penetration will reach 56 million of Pakistan’s total population over the next five years.

Employment opportunity
The increasing inbound tourism has resulted in employment generation for the locals. From 1,429,500 jobs being created in the hospitality sector in 2015, it is projected that this figure will reach 1,760,000 jobs till 2025 i.e. an increase of 2.1% per annum over the next ten years.

Leading hotel chains
With the ongoing development in the country including the mega project of CPEC, the inbound tourism is projected to increase in Pakistan. Seeing the potential that Pakistan possesses in the hospitality sector, various hotel chains including Hashoo Group, Grand Hayatt, and Sheraton will be opening new hotels in various parts of the country over the next 5 years.

Exclusive Deals on Pakistan Day That You Should Not Miss Out

Amongst the various events that have shaped the history of Pakistan the Lahore resolution, which was later renamed as Pakistan resolution, is one event that laid the foundation of a separate homeland for the Muslims of South Asia. The event holds a special place in the hearts of Pakistanis because it marked the official start of the drive for a separate Muslim state.

Therefore, Pakistan resolution day is celebrated with utmost patriotism and fervor on 23rd March every year. As this date is just around the corner, there can be seen an upsurge in the patriotic feeling amongst Pakistanis.

To help all Pakistanis to make the most out of this special day, which molded the lives of millions of Muslims for the better, Jovago Pakistan has started a special campaign by the name of Safar e Pakistan that will highlight the various aspects of our beautiful motherland. As part of this campaign, this article is about the exclusive deals on Pakistan day that you should not miss out.

Daraz.pk
As part of its “Pakistan First” philosophy, Daraz.pk is all set to offer crazy discounts through its “Grand Green sale”. The sale will be live from 23rd March to 25th March 2017. With 23 mega sales and discounts up to 77 percent across various categories, Daraz is determined to help Pakistanis celebrate the 77th Pakistan day in style without straining their bank account.

Jovago.pk
With the mission to promote and increase tourism in Pakistan and to facilitate travelers though easy and best online hotel booking, Jovago Pakistan is ready to celebrate Pakistan day in style. With its Safar e Pakistan campaign, Jovago Pakistan will not only offer crazy discounts up to 60% on hotel booking but also provide special discounted tour packages for those who are planning to travel to different areas in the country. These deals are a perfect to enjoy your trip and make beautiful memories that you can later cherish upon without putting a dent in your bank account.

Foodpanda
Are you someone who believes that eating food is the best way to celebrate an event? If yes, then Foodpanda brings the perfect excuse to keep your tummy full and satiate your hunger cravings by offering discounts up to 60%. These crazy discounts will be live for the entire month of March.

Here’s How You Should Spend the Long Holiday Coming Up on 23rd March

As the month of March arrives, the feeling of patriotism surges to a new high among Pakistanis. Are you someone who is curious about this upsurge?

This feeling of freedom and patriotism is associated with the month of March for various reasons. Not only does it instill hope for a better future with the blooming flowers, which marks the arrival of the spring season, it is also cherished because of the historical significance that it has for Pakistan.

The most prominent day of the month is 23rd of March on which prominent leaders of the Muslim gathered in 1940, at the famous Minto Park in Lahore, to pass a resolution which revolved around the Muslims drive for a separate homeland within British India.

Therefore, the resolution is considered to be one of the major events that laid the foundation for Pakistan and is celebrated with utmost patriotism.

This article by Jovago Pakistan is a part of the online hotel booking website’s Safar e Pakistan campaign which is all about highlighting the beauty that Pakistan possesses. It includes the places that are a must-visit to celebrate 23rd March and remember the message that it brings about.

Minar e Pakistan
The celebration of this important milestone in Pakistan’s history will be incomplete without a visit to the Minar e Pakistan in Lahore, where the resolution for a separate Muslim homeland was passed. With an approximate height of 70 meters, this national monument was built to commemorate March 23, 1940. Situated in Iqbal park which is a major public attraction, the Minar e Pakistan is adjacent to the famous Badshahi masjid.

Pakistan Monument
The beautiful monument in constructed in the shape of a flower petal and is located on the Shakarparian Hills in Islamabad. With an area of 2.8 hectares, the monument symbolizes national unity. The adjoining museum is a major public attraction because it is home to wax monuments that depict important events that lead to Pakistan Movement.

Mazar e Quaid
This is the final resting place of the Father of the nation Muhammad Ali Jinnah who played a major role in the creation of a separate state for Muslims of South Asia. Situated in the largest city of Pakistan, the mausoleum is the largest of its kind in the country. It is built out of white marble and is a sight on its own. Important artifacts which are of historical significance are kept at the museum which is adjacent to the mausoleum.

Ziarat Residency
The beautiful valley of Ziarat in the province of Balochistan is famous for its serene environment which entranced the founder of Pakistan Muhammad Ali Jinnah as he spent his final days there. The tourists are not only attracted by the historical significance of this place but the lush green lawns of the residency provide a spectacular view of the entire valley.

ACCA launches Research Report and Online certificates

20^th March 2017: ACCA Pakistan held an exclusive event to reveal the key findings of its latest research report, 50 drivers of change in the public sector, published in December 2016.

To help professional accountants and leaders in the public sector prepare for an uncertain tomorrow, ACCA undertook a global study to explore which emerging drivers of change could have the biggest impact and to highlight the skills that will be required over the period to 2026.

At the event, ACCA has also launched its online Certificate in International Public Sector Accounting Standards (Cet. IPSAS). This qualification will be delivered in Pakistan in partnership with ICMA Pakistan using a blended (online and face-to-face) model. The face-to-face content has been specifically developed by ICMA Pakistan to help meet the challenges of implementing IPSAS from a local perspective.

There is an increasing demand for greater transparency and accountability for public funds. The public sector is evolving to deliver services in the most effective way within the constraints of available public finances and therefore it is important that finance professionals working in the public sector are proficient in the international public sector accounting standards and IPSAS will help improve the reporting and financial management in public sector

The event was attended by senior public sector officials and dignitaries from key development agencies.  Important representatives included, Helen Brand, ACCA’s Chief Executive, Muhammad Kamran Jamil, Executive Director, ICMA Pakistan, ACCA Council Members, Phoebe Hao Yu and Ayla Majid, Imran Iqbal, Additional Auditor General of Pakistan, Ahmed Taimoor Nasir, DG HRM, Auditor General of Pakistan, Tafakhar Ali Asadi, Director General (Policy), Auditor General Pakistan and Akram El-Shorbagi, Senior FM Specialist, The World Bank.

List of 3 Famous Caves in Pakistan

Are you someone who is a fan of mystery and adventure? If yes, then you should try caving, which is a recreational pastime of exploring caves. Also known as spelunking and potholing, this sport requires climbing or crawling because caves are usually underground natural chamber on the side of a hill or cliff formed due to erosion and dissolution of rocks.

If caving is your thing, then you should consider exploring the mysterious aura of the caves found in Pakistan. Be it their historical significance or being used as a praying and meditation site that allures you, Jovago Pakistan brings a list of 3 famous caves in Pakistan that you should definitely explore.

• Buddhists cave at Shah Allah Ditta

The beautiful capital city of Pakistan is home to famous caves of Shah Allah Ditta that are approximately 4000 years old. While some archeologists believe that these caves date back to stone age, there are others who believe that these caves were formed in the Ghandara civilization. With murals on the walls denoting Buddhism and Hinduism, the caves of Shah Allah Ditta are an important archeological site.

• Pir Ghaib Cave

In the largest province of Pakistan, lies the famous cave of Pir Ghaib in the Bolan mountains. Considered to be the longest cave in Pakistan, this cave is 1270 metres long in length. It was named after a famous local saint who vanished within the cave when the soldiers of the Kings of Bolan were sent to murder him. The cave is surrounded by a stunning waterfall that is a sight on its own.

• Gondrani

Considered to be the cave city of pakistan, Gondrani is located near the Bela city in the province of Balochistan. Dating back to the 7th century A.D, these caves are an important archeological site. Believed to be carved by Buddhists, only 500 out of the 1500 caves exist at Gondrani. The cave city is also known as Shehr-e-Roghan, the cave city of Lasbella and the Cave Dwellings of Gondrani.

If you have information on any other caves of Pakistan, then do share it with us in the comments section below.

Jovago brings an exclusive article on the 5 must-have apps for Business Travelers

For some people traveling for business purpose brings about a load of perks while for others it is a chore. No matter which side of the coin you are, traveling is something which is essential for your job or business.

Therefore, it is important that your business trip is smoothened. For this, you should take the help of your smartphone which has brought about convenience into our lives. From hotel booking to finding routes, everything is just a touch away.

Keeping in mind the ease that smartphones brings about, Jovago Pakistan brings you an exclusive article on the must-have apps that will ensure that you have a smooth, hassle-free business travel.

1. Oanda Currency Converter

Don’t know how much Dollars you will get in exchange for Pakistani Rupees? If yes, then fret no more. This is because by using Oanda app you can easily convert between currencies using up-to-date rates. Available for both Android and iOS users, this app is a must-have for international traveling.

2. AwardWallet

Are you someone who frequently travels for business purposes? If yes, then you have the opportunity to cash on it. By using the AwardWallet app, you can keep track of your loyalty programs. Available for both Android and iOS users, it allows you to view your frequent flyer miles as well as keep your hotel and credit card points all in one place.

3. Google Maps

Want to reach your meeting on time but can’t figure out which is the best route for you?  Don’t worry because he who know-it-all is here to help you out. By using this app, navigation of different places will become easier for you like never before as it provides you with easy to understand travel routes but it also allows you to compare and decide which transportation mode will be better for you. It also notifies you about possible traffic jams.

4. FlightAware Flight Tracker

Think that your flight will get delayed? Here is the perfect app to get real-time status updates on any commercial flight worldwide. By using FlightAware app, you are able to track your flight and get to know if there are any delays or changes to arrival or departure. It is available for both Android and iOS users.

5. Evernote

Have a problem in keeping all your work in one place? Well, you don’t have to worry anymore because by using the Evernote app you can easily write up and organize notes while you’re away from your desk. With the option of easily syncing with all your devices, the app has both Android and iOS versions.

Do you use any other app that helps in smoothening your business travel? If yes, then share it with us in the comments section below.

Must Have Apps for All Solo Females Traveling in Pakistan

As the hospitality industry goes online, it has lead to a change in the dynamics of the industry. Gone are the days when people had to wait in long lines to get a place in the restaurant or had to wander about the new destination in search of a hotel room that met their requirements.

Nowadays, everything is possible by just using your smartphone. This technological advancement has brought about convenience into the lives of human beings which has enabled them to take control of their lives.

One aspect of this empowerment can be seen among women who are no longer confined to household chores. They no longer feel the need to have the company of males whenever they are going on a trip. Rather, by easily planning and arranging for every aspect of their travel voyage prior to their traveling to the new destination, females are ready to embark on a solo journey which is full of eye- opening experiences.

To facilitate these women, Jovago brings a list of apps which every woman traveling solo in Pakistan should have.

Google Translate

As Pakistani is a home to various diverse ethnic groups, there are a number of languages spoken throughout the country. With the help of the tech maestro, all females can easily get to understand and communicate by typing in words and phrases used in the local language. Google translate is available in 103 languages, out of which 52 are available offline. By using this app, you will no longer stutter because you are at a loss for words.

Help Call

During traveling, if any emergency arises, one is not exactly sure whom to call for help. You can avoid such situation by using the Help Call app. With it’s easy to navigate button system, it brings all the essential international emergency information together. Do download the app in order to ensure that you are ready to face all the challenges that your solo journey brings about.

Jovago

Traveling to Pakistan but don’t know where to stay? Keep calm as Jovago Pakistan has come to your rescue. With an inventory of more than 2000 hotels, Pakistan’s best hotel booking website provides you the best price guarantee and most importantly, the ease of paying online as well as offline. Moreover, it also allows you to search for the best hotel room by using the customized search engine which is based on various criteria including destination, stars, price and popularity.

Instagram

Want to show off all your amazing travel pictures but think they are not good enough because you took them from your phone’s camera. Fret no more because by using the instagram app, you are able to convert your plain pictures into digital works of art. The app offers various themes along with different filters to show your colorful side.

If you have information on any other app that you think is a must have for all the solo, female travelers out there, then do share it with us in the comments section below.

ACCA celebrates International Women’s Day 2017

ACCA (The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is proudly celebrating International Women’s Day today, an annual celebration on 8 March of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

ACCA’s Chief Executive, Ms Helen Brand OBE said, ‘Great progress has been made across the world to accelerate gender parity, but there is still work to be done to improve it. Women still only represent 22% of corporate leaders globally, with a further 33% of firms globally with no women in senior management at all*.’

ACCA uncovered inequality in the working trends of young women in finance careers in an 18,000-strong global survey, ‘Generation Next’, which found:

·         Women are more likely to pursue a long term career in finance and accounting (47% would like to stay in the career for more than 5 years compared to 40% of men)

·         Women are more likely to expect to stay with their current employer in their next role (42% expect an internal next move, compared to 37% men)

·         Women are less likely to pursue entrepreneurial ambitions (84% of men want to start their own business either as their next career move or later in their career, compared to 74% of women)

‘For the inequality these statistics show to become a thing of the past, organisations must build supportive environments and work to eliminate conscious and unconscious bias right across the corporate structure’ says Helen.

At present, ACCA has 480,000 students around the world studying hard to become professional accountants. 54% of them are female, a percentage that is growing year-on-year. With almost a quarter of a million women working towards a professional qualification, ACCA believes the pipeline of motivated, ambitious young women looking to embark on a career in business has never been healthier.

‘Closing the gender gaps are crucial to the global economy’s success’ continues Helen. ‘For female finance professionals that aspire to positions of leadership here are some tips to help you make the most of your current opportunities:

·         ‘Find a role model – As you journey up the career ladder, having a role model can help you see where the breadth and depth of female talent is in the organisation and spur you on.

·         ‘Explore leadership opportunities – Leadership roles don’t have to be strictly in the workplace. Seek an oversight role and use it to practice your leadership skills. You could start volunteering as a school governor. Once you become an experienced leader, you can apply to other positions such as a non-executive director for a company board. Boards are crying out for diversity, and you’ll be able to bring a different perspective and add value to the table of any organisation through your expertise.

·         ‘Children aren’t the only reason for flexible working – Flexibility shouldn’t be a gendered policy. I encourage employees of both genders to request flexible hours to pursue commitments and interests outside of work, whether that be family life, volunteering or entrepreneurial pursuits. Dividing your time can allow you to pursue other areas of interest can make your work life balance more suited to your individual needs. Research shows employees stay with their organisations longer if they’re more satisfied in their roles – and a well-rounded individual who has a positive social impact is likely to be a more valuable employee too.

‘We have been talking about gender inequality in business for far too long, and it is time for change. It will not happen overnight, but we can all take action to accelerate the pace of change and work towards more diversity, and I’m sure 2018 will be another year of continued improvement. Happy International Women’s Day for 2017.’

*Grant Thornton International Business Report 2016: Women in business: turning promise into practice

Perfect Footwear for Traveling That You Can Not Afford to Miss Upon

Tired of walking around your travel destination in those uncomfortable shoes which end up ruining your travel plans? Did you get blisters all over your feet because you wore the wrong pair of shoes?

If your answer is yes to any of these questions, then this footwear edition by Jovago Pakistan is a must read for you. This is because it contains a list of foot wears that are not only perfect for your travel but are trendy as well. Hence, ensuring that you have a great trip, at least from the perspective of your shoes.

• Espadrille

Whether you are a fan of casual shoes or flat forms, there are different espadrilles available in the market. They make a perfect fit in the tropical and sub tropical climate because they are made of cotton or canvas fabric. A major trend in fashion, espadrilles is a perfect choice of footwear for a day long trip.

• Sliders

Sweeping away the 90’s fashion of flip flops, sliders are the new talk of the town. Not only do they look great with pants and shalwars but they also provide comfort to your feet. A must have if you are planning a trip to the beach.

• Converse

Despite being on the market for some years, the converse is great for short walks as it provides comfort to your feet. Pair it up with some skinny jeans or a even a jumpsuit and you are ready to rock your style and of course your travel.

• Sneakers

Not only do sneakers provide your feet with comfort but they also give you an athletic vibe, which is something that everyone in Pakistan is busy talking and working upon. They make up the perfect footwear if you are planning to go about exploring the Northern areas.

• Flat pumps

A perfect option if you are planning for a tour of the city as they are lightweight and comfortable. Pair it up with pair skinny jeans for a casual look. They also look great with shalwars and pants.

Explore the cave city of Pakistan – Gondrani

As an underground natural chamber on the side of a hill or cliff formed due to erosion and dissolution of rocks, cave tends to carry an aura of mystery. From serving as a shelter and food storage to being used as a prayer site, these shadowy openings have a history that dates way before the inception of humans.

The alluring nature of these caves attracts humans because they like mysterious things. Throughout the various taciturn of history, man has tried to discover and explore these alluring gifts of nature. This is one reason why caves have emerged as one of the leading tourist destinations among extreme adventure lovers.

If caves are what allure you then imagine a city which is full of caves. You must be thinking that we are out of our mind, but hold your horses. Keep calm and read this exclusive article by Jovago Pakistan to know all about this mysterious yet actual cave city in Pakistan which has emerged as one of the tourist destinations.

Location

Near the Bela city in Balochistan, which is the largest province of Pakistan, lies the mountainous region of Gondrani. It is located at a distance of 200 km from Karachi and is basically an archeological site. In order to reach this tourist site, one has to travel through a gravel road from Bela city which heads towards a small stream that is surrounded by caves of Shehr-e-Roghan.

History

The caves of Gondrani date back to the 7th century A.D. However, archeologists are still not able to find the origin of these mysterious caves, due to several different myths revolving around it. Many people believe that the caves of Gondrani were carved by the Buddhists who ruled over the area at that time.

Popular names

Gondrani is also known as Shehr-e-Roghan, Cave City of Lasbella, Cave Dwellings of Gondrani, House of the Spirits; its nickname being the cave city of Pakistan.

Description

The Gondrani caves are small in size and therefore, visitors can easily touch their ceilings. They are carved on the inner sides of the mountains, which contain pebble type rocks. Due to the surrounding streams flowing by, some of the caves are so high on the water content that they have water plants that are actually hanging.

Summer Fashion Trends to Rock Your Next Travel

Planning to travel in the summer season but don’t know what to include in your wardrobe to rock your trip?

If your answer is yes, then fret no more. Keep calm and read along as this fashion edition by Jovago Pakistan will help you in flaunting your style this summer season.

• Loose Shalwar

Not only do shalwars look elegant, they also help in remaining cool whilst traveling in the glowering sun. Pair it up with a short tunic or a knee-length shirt and you are ready to rock your ethnic look!

• Frills and Ruffles

Whether it is the famous celebrities, the fashionistas or the runway models, everyone is welcoming the 1980’s trend of frills and ruffles by adding them to their sleeves, collars or on the trimmings of their pants. Add a flirty yet fun touch by including frills to your travel wardrobe.

• Stripes

The hottest trend of 2017 revolves around stripes. From runway shows for Valentino to  Banana Republic, fashion has gone graphic this summer season with stripes popping up everywhere.  Whether it is the sophisticated Oxford stripes that catches your eye or the colourful stripes that shows your fun side, do add them to your summer wardrobe.

• Slogan Tees

Making your statement through slogan tees is another upsurging trend for the summer season. Not only does tees shirt provide comfort to you in the hot season but they also make you look chic. Pair it up with leggings or jeans or even straight pants and you are good to go. Make your statement with your tees without saying a word.

• Add some sunshine and pink

The fashion world is going Va Voom on pink and yellow colour. All the prominent designers around the world are going Gaga by adding these two colours to their collections. Whether you are a fan of soft shades or you want to make a bold statement, do get yourself something that is  in pink and yellow colours.

ACCA and SECP MoU signing on Investor Education and Awareness

Lahore, 3^rd March 2017: ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) recently signed an MoU with Securities and Exchange Commission Pakistan (SECP) as both ACCA and SECP share a common vision of advancing public interest and are committed towards the promotion of investor education and awareness.

The attendees at the signing ceremony included Ayla Majid and Phoebe Hao You, ACCA Council Members, Helen Brand, Chief Executive ACCA and Sajjeed Aslam, Head of ACCA Pakistan. The senior management from SECP included Akif Saeed, Commissioner SECP and Khalida Habib, Director, Investor Education SECP.

                     

The MOU is expected to be a starting point of the relationship between the two entities and will be moving on to broader matters concerning general financial literacy in Pakistan. Under this MoU the organizations will jointly organize ‘Investor Awareness Seminar’ series throughout Pakistan as well as hosting local and global conferences which shall contribute to the investor education campaign.