The Role of DMCs in Crafting Luxury Travel Experiences

EMMA LE

Suchitra, Aluwihare, Hayleys

Rana Abu Alhala - plan B

Luxury travellers today seek more than just grandeur; they crave authenticity, flawless execution, and meaningful connection. Destination Management Companies (DMCs) play a vital role in delivering these experiences. With local expertise, cultural insight, and operational excellence, they seamlessly transform high expectations into unforgettable moments.

1. Local Expertise

At the heart of any luxury journey is local knowledge. Rana Abu Alhala, CEO of Plan B Travel & Tourism, shares, "Our strength lies in knowing the soul of each destination. We know when the desert blooms in Jordan, which private beaches remain untouched, and where to find artisans who craft heritage into modern luxury. These insider insights are what elevate our itineraries."

By building relationships with luxury hotels, renowned chefs, local elders, and artists, DMCs ensure guests access experiences far beyond what guidebooks offer.

2. Tailor-Made Itineraries with Expert Advice

Customisation today is about more than ticking boxes; it's about understanding travellers’ personalities and passions. "We work like architects of experience," explains Mir Musa Baghirzade, Sales Director, Turalux, "In Azerbaijan and Georgia, we’ve created itineraries for art collectors, culinary enthusiasts, and wellness seekers, all deeply aligned with the traveller's desires. This level of personalisation simply can’t be replicated by algorithms."

Their role is to find that delicate balance between exploration and comfort, crafting journeys that feel both seamless and special.

3. End-to-End Services

DMCs facilitate every step of the guest experience. "From arranging private jet charters to handling VIP immigration procedures, our goal is to remove all friction points," notes Rana Abu Alhala, CEO of Plan B Travel & Tourism. "We want travellers to focus on discovery, not logistics."

From hotel check-ins and guided tours to concierge services, their involvement ensures every detail is anticipated and perfected.

4. Conscious Luxury

Luxury is no longer just about indulgence, but about responsibility. "Our travellers want to know that their presence contributes positively to the destination," shares Mir Musa Baghirzade, Sales Director, Turalux. "We curate experiences with boutique partners who uphold sustainability, from eco-friendly vineyards to heritage preservation initiatives in the Caucasus."

The future of luxury travel blends purpose with opulence, and DMCs are leading this evolution.

5. Unique Luxury Experiences

“The real luxury lies in the unGoogleable,” says Emma Le, Inbound Director, Thang Long Tours, Vietnam. "In Vietnam, we've arranged private poetry readings on ancient pagoda grounds and exclusive lantern festivals on hidden rivers."

By weaving these rare, multisensory moments into itineraries, DMCs create travel experiences that are as personal as they are extraordinary.

6. Cultural Access

Beyond opulent hotels and fine dining, travellers now seek cultural immersion. "We believe guests should become part of the destination’s living story," explains Emma Le, Inbound Director, Thang Long Tours, Vietnam. "Whether it’s a hands-on craft workshop or an intimate meeting with a local historian, we give travellers privileged access to our heritage and communities."

This deeper engagement fosters lasting memories and meaningful exchanges.

7. Luxury Cuisine Experiences

DMCs are also curators of exceptional culinary experiences. Suchitra Aluwihare, COO of Hayley’s Travels, shares, "We go beyond restaurant recommendations. From floating breakfasts on private lakes in Sri Lanka to chef-led spice garden tours, we turn meals into storytelling experiences."

By blending local flavours with world-class presentation, they elevate dining into a highlight of the journey.

8. Elevated Transit Experiences

Travel begins long before arrival. "For us, the journey is as significant as the destination," says Suchitra Aluwihare, COO of Hayleys Travels. "Imagine traversing tea plantations by helicopter or enjoying vintage train rides paired with live musicians and curated wines."

By refining transit itself into an indulgent experience, DMCs ensure that every leg of the journey feels special.

Today’s DMCs are curators and storytellers, blending deep cultural knowledge with the highest standards of luxury. Their ability to merge local authenticity with global expectations makes them indispensable to the modern luxury travel landscape. As travel continues to evolve, the role of DMCs will only grow more essential, offering not just seamless experiences but stories that linger long after the journey ends.

Some brands make beer. Asahi? It made history. 🍺🌅 by Arvind Bartwal

In this captivating presentation, Arvind Bartwal, passionate about people and processes, and known for crafting training experiences that elevate both, takes us on a whirlwind tour through the frothy rise of Asahi. From its roots in Meiji-era Osaka to its reign as a global icon of crisp refreshment and innovation, this isn’t just a corporate timeline. It’s a cultural chronicle, a masterclass in marketing, and a toast to tradition that dared to evolve.

What makes this deck sparkle (besides the Super Dry, of course) is the attention to detail: the poetic origin of the name "Asahi," the dry beer revolution that rewired Japanese drinking habits, and the way a brewery became a lifestyle symbol. There’s something here for business buffs, brand nerds, foodies, and fans of fermentation alike.

So raise a glass, scroll on, and soak up the sunshine behind the rising sun. 🌞🍻

Wedding Hospitality 2.0: How Tech is Transforming Guest Experiences by Anjali Tolani, Vice President – Celebrations at Tamarind Global

The wedding industry has always been about creating magical, unforgettable experiences, but with technology evolving, hospitality in weddings is now reaching new heights. Today, technology is reshaping the way couples interact with their guests, making celebrations more immersive and efficient. These insights are contributed by Ms. Anjali Tolani, Vice President of Celebrations at Tamarind Global, who highlights how weddings are now entering a new era where tradition meets innovation. Here’s how tech is revolutionizing guest experiences at modern weddings.

1. Smart Invitations

The first touchpoint of any wedding experience begins with the invitation and technology has overtaken even this age-old tradition. Digital wedding invites have become more sophisticated than just an e-card. AI-powered invitations now include personalized RSVP tracking, QR codes that provide real-time updates on venue details, accommodation arrangements and even interactive maps for easy navigation. Some couples are even using chatbots to answer guest queries, eliminating the hassle of back-and-forth coordination. With sustainability at the forefront, tech-driven invitations also reduce paper waste and create a flawless communication channel between the couple and their guests.

2. Live Streaming for Remote Guests

With destination weddings and intimate gatherings becoming more popular, live streaming has been a game-changer for guests who can’t physically attend. High-definition video streaming ensures that loved ones from around the world don’t miss out on the special moments. Weddings now have professionally managed live streams with multiple camera angles, interactive chats and real-time engagement features. Some couples even send pre-event packages to virtual guests, complete with wedding favours and snacks, so they can celebrate from afar while feeling included in the festivities.

3. Augmented Reality (AR) Entertainment

Photo booths have been a wedding staple for years, but now, Augmented Reality (AR) is taking guest entertainment to the next level. Imagine stepping into a photo booth that transports you to the couple’s favorite travel destination or a fairytale-inspired backdrop, all through AR projections! Guests can choose themed filters, add custom animations and instantly share their images on social media. Couples are using AR to create 3D projections of their love story, interactive guest books where attendees can leave video messages and even virtual dance performances that blend real and digital elements. It’s a fun and futuristic way to engage guests while making every moment picture-perfect.

4. Digital Guest Engagement

With social media playing a massive role in modern weddings, couples are now incorporating interactive elements to enhance guest engagement. AI-generated animations that turn guest photos into digital sketches or GIFs are becoming popular wedding mementos. Live social media walls display real-time posts from guests using a unique wedding hashtag, creating a delightful feed of shared memories. Some weddings even feature AI-driven quizzes or games tailored to the couple’s story, making guests feel more connected to the celebration. Beyond social sharing, personalised wedding apps are also seen as a one-stop hub for itineraries, seating charts, special announcements and digital thank-you notes after the event.

5. Smart Venue Transformations

Technology is now an integral part of wedding décor and ambiance. Projection mapping is revolutionising how spaces are transformed, walls and ceilings can shift from serene beach sunsets to celestial galaxies with the flick of a switch. Smart LED lighting allows couples to adjust the mood of the venue in real time, ensuring every moment has the perfect glow. Some weddings are even incorporating temperature control systems that adjust automatically based on guest comfort. This fusion of aesthetics and technology creates a truly immersive atmosphere which will leave your guests in awe.

Technology is an essential part of elevating guest experiences. These innovations are ensuring that guests feel more included, entertained and engaged than ever before. As weddings continue to evolve, the integration of smart solutions will help streamline logistics and make celebrations more interactive and memorable.

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About The Author: Anjali Tolani is a seasoned marketing professional with a strong background in pharmaceutical studies and management. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Studies from Mumbai University, where she topped her marketing class, and a Master's in Management Studies (MMS) with a Marketing major from SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS).

With over nine years at Tamarind Global, Anjali currently serves as Vice President – Celebrations at Tamarind Global. In this role, she leads contracting and procurement across India, overseeing hotels, transport, and luxury services. She is instrumental in developing proprietary product lines and itineraries and heads support operations in West and South India. Anjali also represents the organization to domestic and international hotel chains and boutique hotels across India and the subcontinent.

Personalizing the Future of Hospitality: A Vision at The Fern Hotels & Resorts

In today’s rapidly evolving hospitality landscape, personalization is not just an added luxury—it has become a central tenet of delivering exceptional guest experiences. The Fern Hotels & Resorts, a brand synonymous with distinctive service, has recognized that true hospitality lies in understanding the unique needs and preferences of each guest. In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, guests seek more than just a comfortable stay; they crave an experience that is deeply attuned to their individual needs, preferences, and desires. This is where our vision for personalized hospitality truly takes shape. It has been our mission to ensure that personalization is embedded into every facet of our operations, from guest check-in to their departure and beyond.

At The Fern, we believe in crafting a highly personalized experience that transcends conventional hospitality. It is not about offering a generic set of services but about customizing each interaction to match the unique requirements of every guest. In an age where guests expect more than just comfort and luxury, they desire an immersive experience tailored specifically to them. This vision is materialized through a fusion of cutting-edge technology, data-driven insights, and personalized guest engagement strategies that redefine what it means to offer true hospitality.

From the moment a guest books a stay with us, we begin to gather insights into their preferences and desires. We leverage advanced data analytics to understand patterns in guest behaviour, such as preferences for room setup, bedding, or specific dietary needs. For example, pillow menus are available at select properties, allowing guests to make their selection from the menu provided in their rooms following check-in. Similarly, guests with specific dietary preferences, like gluten-free or vegan options, are accommodated with menu offerings available at the property, ensuring their needs are met based on the dishes currently offered. 

At check-in, the personalization continues. Drawing from prior interactions and preferences, we meticulously tailor the guest experience to reflect their unique needs. Whether it’s the ambient temperature, lighting, or the arrangement of furniture, we strive to craft an environment that aligns seamlessly with each guest’s vision of comfort. Extensive research has been dedicated to selecting carefully curated fragrances and premium toiletries, elevating the overall experience. Likewise, the thoughtful arrangement of furniture is designed with the utmost attention to detail, ensuring a space that embodies both elegance and comfort, providing guests with a refined, home-away-from-home atmosphere.

One of the highlights of a stay at The Fern Hotels & Resorts is the personalized local tourism experience we offer. Based on guests’ requests and interests, we offer various tourist packages available at our hotels across destinations. Additionally, we offer specialized local activities and entertainment, ensuring that our guests can immerse themselves fully in the region’s distinct culture and charm.

We take great pride in our meticulous attention to detail, especially when it comes to guest safety. Allergies and special requests are treated with the highest level of care and priority. Our staff is thoroughly trained to handle all potential allergens, whether it pertains to food, cleaning products, or even the materials used in room furnishings. 

To provide an even more personalized touch for guests staying at our Crown Collection properties, we assign designated staff members to guests. This personal connection creates a sense of familiarity and trust, allowing us to better anticipate needs and personalize service even further. Whether it is a butler, a dedicated server at our restaurant, or a concierge who understands the nuances of the guest’s preferences, these personalized interactions form the cornerstone of The Fern’s commitment to exceptional hospitality.

At The Fern Hotels & Resorts, we have always believed that personalization is not just a service, but a philosophy. It is a commitment to knowing our guests intimately, understanding their desires, and crafting an experience that exceeds their expectations. By embracing cutting-edge technologies, data-driven insights, and a deeply ingrained culture of service excellence, we continue to set new standards in hospitality. Our goal is to ensure that every guest feels truly valued, their preferences respected, and their stay an unforgettable experience tailored just for them.

-By Mr. Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts

Budget Quote From Mr. Sandeep Ahuja, MD, Atmosphere Living

"Although the IGR numbers for November 2024 are lower than those of the previous months, at approximately 9400 registrations generating  a revenue of +825 crore in stampduty , it is essential to note that the ticket size of the projects sold have increased sharply. The average ticket size has increased from around _80lacs in earlier months to around 1.25lacs  this November.".

This trend reflects a growing preference among buyers for larger, premium properties and realizes the evolving demand for space in response to lifestyle needs. Hence, as ticket size increases, it seems that the market is indeed insisting on quality real estate whereas transaction volume might be erratic. This shift underscores a positive long-term outlook for Mumbai's real estate sector as buyers opt for luxury and space in their property choices.

Hoping it is insightful and you would be able to use it.

Dynamic Pricing for Restaurants: Unpacking Growth in F&B Revenue Management

In recent years, the restaurant industry has witnessed a significant shift towards embracing technology-driven solutions to enhance operations and increase revenue. One such key strategy that has garnered attention is dynamic pricing, a practice commonly used in industries like airlines and hotels but has now made its way into the realm of food and beverage (F&B) establishments. Dynamic pricing refers to the practice of adjusting menu prices based on various factors such as demand, time of day, day of the week, and even weather conditions, with the aim of optimizing revenue and maximizing profitability.

Understanding Dynamic Pricing

Traditional pricing models in restaurants have typically been static, with menu prices remaining the same regardless of external factors. However, dynamic pricing introduces a more flexible approach, allowing restaurants to adapt their pricing in real-time to capitalize on changing market conditions. By leveraging data analytics and technology tools, restaurants can set prices dynamically to match supply and demand, ultimately driving increased sales and profitability.

Benefits of Dynamic Pricing for Restaurants

1. Maximizing Revenue:

Dynamic pricing enables restaurants to adjust prices based on demand fluctuations, ensuring that they are capturing the maximum revenue potential at any given time. For example, during peak hours or busy seasons, prices can be increased to capitalize on higher demand, while special promotions or discounts can be offered during off-peak times to attract more customers.

2. Enhancing Customer Loyalty:

By offering personalized promotions and discounts through dynamic pricing, restaurants can build stronger relationships with their customers. Customized pricing strategies can make customers feel valued and incentivize them to return, thereby increasing customer retention and loyalty.

3. Optimizing Inventory Management:

Dynamic pricing can also help restaurants better manage their inventory by aligning pricing with product availability. By adjusting prices based on inventory levels, restaurants can prevent overstocking or stockouts, leading to reduced waste and improved operational efficiency.

4. Competitive Advantage:

Restaurants that implement dynamic pricing gain a competitive edge in the market by being able to react quickly to changing market dynamics. By staying agile and responsive to pricing trends, restaurants can outperform competitors and secure a larger share of the market.

Challenges and Considerations

While dynamic pricing offers significant benefits to restaurants, there are also challenges and considerations to keep in mind when implementing this strategy:

1. Customer Perception:

One of the key concerns with dynamic pricing is how customers perceive frequent price changes. Restaurants need to communicate transparently about their pricing strategy to avoid any negative reactions from customers who may feel prices are arbitrarily being increased.

2. Data Accuracy:

For dynamic pricing to be effective, restaurants need access to accurate and real-time data on factors influencing pricing decisions. Maintaining data integrity and using robust analytics tools are critical to the success of dynamic pricing initiatives.

3. Regulatory Compliance:

Restaurants must ensure that their dynamic pricing practices comply with legal regulations and do not infringe on consumer protection laws. Pricing transparency and fairness are essential to building trust with customers and avoiding legal issues.

The Future of Dynamic Pricing in F&B

As the restaurant industry continues to evolve, dynamic pricing is expected to play an increasingly significant role in F&B revenue management. With advancements in technology, including AI-driven pricing algorithms and predictive analytics, restaurants can harness the power of data to make smarter pricing decisions and drive growth.

In conclusion, dynamic pricing offers restaurants a powerful tool to optimize revenue, enhance customer loyalty, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market. By carefully considering the benefits, challenges, and best practices associated with dynamic pricing, F&B establishments can unlock new opportunities for growth and profitability in the years to come.