New Opening | Sarovar Hotels and Resorts continue to expand portfolio in Srinagar

The hospitality company signs second hotel in city

Sarovar Hotels and Resorts announces the signing of another hotel in Srinagar. This will be Sarovar’s second hotel in Srinagar.

Srinagar also known as “Switzerland of India” is famous for its natural beauty, gardens, waterfronts, and houseboats. It has seen fascinating tourists from centuries with its beautiful picturesque Himalayan backdrop, pristine lakes dotted with houseboats, shikaras and the majesty of Mughal architecture.

Sarovar Portico is scheduled to open in early 2022 and will offer well-appointed rooms, modern facilities, restaurant and banquet spaces. The beauty of Srinagar will be well imbibed in the interiors of the hotel while providing all modern facilities. Ensuring that your stay is most comfortable.

Sarovar Portico, Srinagar is located at the airport Road, Humhama area and just 4 kms away from airport and 9 kms from bus station and railway station,

Needless to say, the incredibly famous Dal Lake is one of the most favored vacation destinations in Srinagar. Along with this, other must-visit places are Shalimar Bagh, Mughal Garden, Nishat Bagh, and Tulip Garden.

Commenting on the development, Anil Madhok, Executive Chairman, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts said” We are delighted to be consolidating our presence further in the ‘land of lakes and Garden’. It’s a significant addition to our rapidly growing footprint in the leisure portfolio and reflects the strong traction the brand is gaining in the region.

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NEWS | IHCL Initiatives To Bring In 1150 Crore over next 2 - 3 years

According to recently held Analyst’s meet:

• Taj’s exclusive business club, The Chambers, has been relaunched with new features. The firm plans to increase its member count from 2,200 to 4,000. Seven Chambers are operational now and two more are in the pipeline. The company expects it to become a ₹150-crore business.

• The firm said the group’s food delivery business Qmin has the potential to reach ₹500 crore in revenue.

• The group’s branded homestays, Ama Stays and Trails, has a revenue potential of ₹500 crore.

New initiatives (Qmin, Ama, The Chambers) are expected to contribute ₹450-500 crore or 10% of revenue over the next two-three years from 5% currently.

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NEWS| Zomato’s INR 60,000 crore IPO valuation creates buzz

Zomato’s IPO is set to be open from July 14 to July 16 at a price band of Rs 72-76. The enhanced offer size is about Rs 9,375 crore. Interestingly Zomato’s valuation at IPO, at about Rs 60,000 crore, is equivalent to the market value of all the quick service restaurants (QSRs) listed on Indian bourses.

The valuation of food delivery major Zomato that’s going public through an IPO with an indicative market capitalization of around INR 60,000 crore, has been a topic of much discussion on social media with many raising an eyebrow if it’s really worth that much.

People have mixed views. For some, a tech-enabled company should be valued differently to a traditional company despite its losses. For some, the IPO is a harvest opportunity for venture capital & private equity investors to offload their liability to retail investors, while some believe Indian food tech companies will reflect valuations earned by their global peers like DoorDash to a significant investor extent.

Zomato’s IPO is set to be open from July 14 to July 16 at a price band of INR 72-76. The enhanced offer size is about INR 9,375 crore.

Interestingly Zomato’s valuation at IPO, at about Rs 60,000 crore, is equivalent to the market value of all the quick service restaurants (QSRs) listed on Indian bourses. Its value is also more than the market value of all the listed hospitality chains operating in the country. This second list includes the behemoth like Indian Hotels that run the iconic Taj chain of hotels in India and abroad, and also Oberoi Hotels.

India has half a dozen listed quick-service restaurants with a combined market value of Rs 60,712 crore and about 20 listed hospitality companies with an aggregate market capitalization of Rs 44,000 crore.

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Appointment | New Meliá Chiang Mai Announces Edward E. Snoeks as General Manager

New Meliá Chiang Mai Announces Edward E. Snoeks as General Manager

CHIANG MAI, Thailand (July 13, 2021) – A hospitality veteran with three decades of industry experience in Asia and Europe, Edward E. Snoeks, will take charge of the new bleisure hotel Meliá Chiang Mai.

The 260 room and suite hotel is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of this year in the heart of Chiang Mai’s city centre.

Snoeks joins Meliá Chiang Mai after managing the pre-opening of Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok & The Residences and working as both Thailand’s regional general manager and general manager of The Okura Prestige Bangkok.

Previously he was the general manager of Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Causeway Bay and vice president of hotel operations at Hong Kong Parkview Hotel Services.

His work in Asia goes back to 1994 when he worked for The Regent Hong Kong’s food and beverage department. Snoeks’ hotel management experience also includes stints at the Marco Polo Hotels in Hong Kong, the Mutiara Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Le Royal Meridien Baan Taling Ngam on Koh Samui.

Comprising a 22-floor tower fronted by an adjoining seven-floor podium building, Meliá Chiang Mai will unveil a host of facilities including two restaurants, two bars, two lounges, a YHI Spa with seven treatment rooms, a fully-equipped fitness centre, swimming pool, ballroom and four additional meeting spaces for business and leisure travellers alike.

“Edward’s exceptional leadership abilities and his rich and diversified experience in opening and managing hotels in Asia make him the obvious choice to take charge of Meliá Chiang Mai, our second Meliá Hotels International property to be opened in Thailand following the successful launch of Meliá Koh Samui,” said Ignacio Martin, Area Managing Director South East Asia at Meliá Hotels International.

“With a 360-degree rooftop bar featuring two bars connected by a glass bridge, a 21st-floor executive lounge with panoramic views of Chiang Mai, a range of conference facilities and much more, my team and I are looking forward to launching a hotel that promises to exude the mystic splendor of Northern Thailand and draw on Meliá’s warm Spanish hospitality,” added Snoeks.

NEWS | RTA publishes new safety manual for delivery drivers in Dubai

It covers how to drive, the specs of the delivery vehicle, food safety and uniforms

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has published a new manual for delivery drivers. It covers safety regulations that companies must follow, making sure drivers are properly trained, carrying out awareness campaigns with drivers and setting up regulations that new delivery platforms and apps must follow.

The manual, called The Activity Manual for Managing and Providing Delivery Services, has been produced in collaboration with Dubai Police and Dubai Municipality. It’s aim is to bring delivery providers in line with the RTA’s regulations and practices.

A statement on the RTA website said it has been brought in now as a result of the increased demand for deliveries since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

It covers any venue or business that delivers “food, goods, equipment and other similar processes”.

The RTA said: “This manual aims to set out a methodology governing the delivery services activity in the Emirate of Dubai and clarify the procedures, controls and provisions governing the sector. It also defines the client’s journey through a clear and documented work procedures.

“The manual sets out important conditions that delivery service companies and their motorcyclists must strictly comply with for the safety of drivers, road users and the food or materials to be delivered.

“These stipulations include the traffic safety of motorcyclists, specifications of the vehicle or motorcycle, food safety at the delivery of orders, and guidelines relating to the uniform of drivers of delivery motorbikes.”

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Tourism, pilgrimages and large gatherings could trigger third wave, says IMA

As reports of revenge travel hogged the headlines in recent weeks, various agencies had raised the alarm against such tendencies which could become reasons for another major spread of the pandemic.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) in a statement warned against the “tourist bonanza, pilgrimage travel and religious fervor” which could become super spreader events and bring on a potential third wave.“All these activities are needed, but can wait for a few more months,”

The association claimed that global evidence available indicated the certainty of a third wave in India was inevitable and imminent. The only way to reduce the impact of the third wave was through universal vaccination and Covid appropriate behaviour on the part of the people and the governments.

While it was important for the entire country to work together to face the challenge, the association said that it was extremely painful to note complacency on the part of the public and governments in various states on following Covid protocols.

“Opening up these events and enabling people without vaccination to go scot free in these mass gatherings are potential super spreaders for the Covid third wave,” the IMA statement said.

The association reminded everyone of the economic cost of treating people at hospitals in large numbers adding that the very same cost of a third wave would far exceed the economic benefits derived from such activities now, which were avoidable.

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HRAWI Requests Maha Govt. To Allow Restaurants To Remain Open Through The Week From 7AM To 12:30AM

Mumbai, July : The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has submitted a representation to the Government of Maharashtra including the Hon’ble Chief Minister - Shri Uddhav Thackeray, Hon’ble Home Minister - Shri Dilip Walse Patil, Hon’ble Environment, Tourism and Protocol Minister - Shri Aaditya Thackeray, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Civil Aviation & State Excise - Smt. Valsa Nair Singh and Hon’ble Chief Secretary - Shri Sitaram Kunte requesting relief for the restaurant industry in the State. The Association has pleaded for revision in timings and protocols to operate restaurants without restrictions in cities and districts with very low COVID19 cases. It has requested that restaurants falling under level 2 or 1 be allowed to operate as per the timings permitted under respective licenses. The HRAWI has asked that restaurants be allowed to operate through the week between 7 am and 12:30 am including Saturdays and Sundays.

“The entire State is operating at level 3 restrictions regardless of the positivity rate or the availability of oxygen or beds. This drastic step has resulted in quashing of legitimate expectations of hoteliers or restaurateurs to re-open their business post the second COVID19 wave. A significant number of people employed in restaurants or hotels are moving away from this sector and are accepting lower wage jobs over uncertain wages due to constant closures, revision of timings. This trend is dangerous. We request the Government to allow the restaurants to stay open from 7am to 12:30am or as per the time mentioned in their licenses, including weekends. These operation timings are likely to benefit a large number of players in this sector. It will also promote staggered venturing out of public. We urge the Government of Maharashtra to take the repercussions of such decisions into consideration and relax the lockdown restrictions in Mumbai in the wake of a dip in the positivity rate,” says Mr. Sherry Bhatia, President, HRAWI.

The Association has stated that the constant revision or alteration of parameters and conditions and restrictions convey uncertainty. Restaurant owners are constantly on their toes and are unsure about re-opening or bringing the staff back on board.

“Restaurants are operating at 50 per cent capacity while following all the mandated SOPs. This means that restaurants are not crowded at any point of time during its operational timings. Now whether the operational hours are between 7am and 4pm or 7am and 12:30 am, the restaurant is going to be seating only half its capacity. Increased operational hours do not mean that a restaurant’s capacity will increase. If the capacity doesn't increase and with all three prerequisites of sanitizing, mask and distance maintained all along the operating hours, as per their authorized timings, we assure the Government that only because of this time relaxation, there won't be any increase in COVID-19 infections. At present, restaurants are operating at half capacity for half a day and only on weekdays. With no specific relief or stimulus from the State Government, the industry continues to suffer. One of the biggest myths is the assumption that hotels and restaurants are super spreader places. This is simply not true; there is no fact in it. Operating in a controlled environment with all the SOPs make hotels and restaurants a COVID19 safe environment,” says Mr Pradeep Shetty, Sr. Vice President, HRAWI.

“Even in the pre-pandemic days, a restaurant’s lunch-hour business accounted for just 15 to 20 per cent of the entire day’s revenue. On weekends, this would rise to about 30 to 35 per cent. But now, with a majority of offices operating WFH, the day business is next to nil and on weekends we are not being allowed to remain open. Essentially, we have been allowed to operate in an environment that makes only bad business sense. We therefore request that this condition be removed immediately and restaurants are allowed to operate as per their license timings and also on weekends,” adds Mr Shetty. 

“Over the last 15 odd months, various factors have resulted in massive financial losses due to the lockdown. Over 40 per cent of restaurants and hotels in the State have permanently closed. There is sheer unpredictability on when to open, when to close, what days to open, how much staff is required and what kind of inventory to maintain. This puts tremendous pressure on the business and does more harm than good. Under such uncertain circumstances, mobilizing operations of a hotel or restaurant property as well as recalling of employees and restarting of operations become an arduous task. It is extremely necessary for a business to get a sense of stability by allowing graded re-opening of this sector. We assure the Government that restaurants, as have always, will operate as per permissible guidelines, keeping in mind all the applicable SOPs for a safe and hygienic environment for its guests as well as its staff,” concludes Mr. Bhatia.

About Hotel & Restaurant Association Western India (HRAWI)

The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) is a 71 years old Association of Hotels and Restaurants in Western India. Its members include various restaurants and smaller Hotels up to 5-Star Deluxe categories. The bulk of its members like any growth economy are made up of restaurants and budget hotels. With a membership base spread across Western India, HRAWI covers Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa and the Union Territories of Daman, Diu & Silvassa, and is considered to be the voice of the Hotel and Restaurant Industry. The association is part of the national body of the Federation of the Hotels & Restaurants Associations of India (FHRAI), located in New Delhi, which was originally founded in Mumbai in 1950 by the late Mr J.R.D. Tata.

NEWS | The Iconic La-Paz Gardens Hotel, Vasco da Gama, Goa is now La-Paz Gardens Beacon!

Concept Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, has opened its fourth hotel in  the sunny state of Goa with La-Paz Gardens Beacon, Vasco da Gama. With this new opening, the company’s  overall count has extended to 81 operational hotels across the country and in Nepal and Seychelles. 

Mr Suhail Kannampilly, CEO, Concept Hospitality-The Fern Hotels & Resorts said “We are delighted to bring  our smart & efficient Beacon brand into Goa, to complement our existing three Fern hotels in the State. With the  environmentally sensitive facilities, services and operations that the Fern and Beacon hotels are so well known for,  guests can now enjoy the fun and beauty of the destination while enjoying a level of accommodations, F&B and  banqueting services as well.” 

On the occasion of the rebranding of the hotel, Mr Dattaraj V Salgaocar, Chairman, VMSalgaocar Corporation  Pvt Ltd mentioned “Hotel La-Paz Gardens remains a revered landmark in the Port Town of Vasco, catering to the  travelers across all categories. We are now relaunching this landmark hotel and are delighted to have The Fern  Hotels & Resorts on board to manage this hotel as La-Paz Gardens Beacon Hotel. The hotel already has the  marvelous charm of the famed Goan hospitality, and will be offering personalized services and comfort to our  guests. Our hotel rooms and F&B offerings are already well appreciated locally and with this rebranding we now  aim to provide memorable stay experiences to more guests.” 

A cherished landmark in the heart of Goa’s Port city, La-Paz Gardens Beacon is conveniently located at a 10-minute  drive from Dabolim Airport and close to the Harbour and Vasco Railway Station. With 74 tasteful rooms and suites,  a variety of restaurants along with conferencing and banquet options, its close proximity to numerous commercial  and business enterprises and Bogmalo Beach make this a perfect gateway for business and leisure stays.  

The hotel offers a mix of rooms and suites. In-room amenities include complimentary packaged drinking water,  tea/coffee maker, satellite TV connections, digital in-room safe, bedroom slippers and daily newspaper service on  request, eco-friendly lighting arrangements and eco-friendly bathroom amenities. Dining options include The  Regency offering multi-cuisine, Sweet n Sour, our renowned Chinese restaurant, Goodyland, the fast food and  snacks shoppe and Harbour Bar at the poolside. 

LOCATION: The hotel is 4.7 km from Dabolim Airport, 0.5 km from Vasco Railway Station 1 km from Vasco KTC  Bus Stand, 2 km from Goa Shipyard, 5 km from Vasco Harbour and 9 km from Bogmalo Beach. ADDRESS: Swatantra Path, Vasco da Gama, Goa 403 802, India. 

T: +91 (0)832 2512121 | E: info.lapazgoa@beaconhotels.com 

Visit us at: www.beaconhotels.com | www.fernhotels.com  

NEWS | After Cci And Nclat, Fhrai Approaches Niti Aayog On Oyo’s Unethical Business Practices

New Delhi, July 2021: India apex Hospitality Association - Federation of Hotel & Restaurant

Associations of India (FHRAI) has submitted a representation to the CEO of NITI Aayog – Shri

Amitabh Kant highlighting Hospitality industry’s plight with reference to Oyo’s business

the model that has caused irreparable damages to the hospitality ecosystem in the country.

The Association has specifically pointed out that certain recent activities conducted by Oyo

to earn goodwill have actually come at the expense of partner hotels. It has stated that any

such humanitarian activities organized by the foreign-funded entity are just an image

repairing exercise to cover up its unfair, anti-competitive, and criminal activities. The FHRAI

has shared with the NITI Aayog copies of FIRs filed by hotel owners across the country along

with details of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code proceedings in the NCLAT and the

investigation against Oyo by the CCI. “OYO operates its business under a maze of more than a dozen subsidiary entities. These individual entities have agreements with independent hotels, mostly in the budget segment. FHRAI has the data of hundreds of such hotels that have reported payment defaults and

other unethical business practices by Oyo. The systemic depredation of the budget segment

hotel business and its market as a means to achieve notional billion-dollar valuation for OTAs are a serious cause of concern for the hospitality ecosystem of our country. In the

interest of the hospitality sector we want to bring to your attention Oyo’s unscrupulous business practices that have annihilated the livelihood, investments, and entrepreneurial initiatives of thousands of hoteliers from the mid and lower segment,” says Mr. Gurbaxish Singh Kohli, Vice President, FHRAI.

The FHRAI has submitted several cases reported from across the country about arbitrary cancellation or breach of contract by Oyo causing immense mental and financial trouble on

account of non-payment of dues to hotel owners. “Oyo, with its humongous funding, mainly from international PE funds takes over small hotels in the budget segment. They artificially create demand and supply on their portal and manipulate prices. With deep discounts and predatory pricing, they vitiate and degrade the hospitality market. Based on artificial and inflated valuation, the company promotes itself as a ‘Great Indian Success Story’ on the back of which it tries to get more funding. There is a clear pattern to its business model, first get the hotel under their branding and later create a dispute to avoid paying the hotel owners. This pattern came to light when several hotels owners across the country filed FIRs with similar complaints. Oyo has managed to fend these complaints so far by pleading them as ‘civil disputes’,” says Mr Pradeep Shetty, Jt. Hon. Sec., FHRAI. Oyo has not disclosed its balance sheets for 2019-20 and 2020-21 and has not complied with the statutory filing of the annual returns. The company has existing loans of around $300 million and is in the process of raising loans of Rs.4400 crores from international investors.

As per Oyo’s financial statement for the period April 2018 to March 2019, it has registered a net loss of Rs.36.72 crores for the year ending March 2018 and a net loss of Rs.102.97 crores for the year ending March 2019. “Moody’s has assigned a first-time B 3 rating to OYO which is not good at all but their fund mobilization drive is based on an overvalued asset proposition so that they are able to manage their bad debts through this. The FHRAI has also filed a complaint before the Competition Commission of India (CCI) against Oyo and MakeMyTrip for cartelization. The

CCI has directed an investigation against them for alleged violation of the provisions of

competitive laws and it is presently investigating the complaint. Here, Oyo had tried to

establish a monopoly by way of delisting their competitors from the MakeMyTrip platform. We wish to bring to the attention of the NITI Aayog these facts pertaining to Oyo and request a meeting with Shri Amitabh Kant for devising a system or policy to safeguard vulnerable hotel and lodge owners from all parts of India,” concludes Mr. Kohli. About Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI): The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) is the apex body of the Indian Hospitality industry. Founded in 1955, the FHRAI is the third-largest Hospitality association in the world and has diligently built on its rich legacy. The Association is today privileged to serve as the leading voice of the hotel and restaurant industry and plays a seminal role in supporting the growth trajectory of India and #39;s hospitality and tourism sector. FHRAI provides a vibrant interface between the industry, government, regulatory bodies, academia, international organizations, civil society, and the media.

Alila Diwa Goa announces new event space

Udeta features a 12,000 sq. ft indoor space that can accommodate over 1200 guests. It includes a 3,600 sq. ft pre-function area and the largest pillar-less indoor space in South Goa, spread across 8,400 sq. ft with a 20ft.

Udeta, meaning ‘rising’ in colloquial Konkani, is the new 18,000 sq. ft. concept event space at Alila Diwa Goa, a cornerstone five-star Hyatt resort. Conveniently located only 20 minutes scenic drive from the Goa Dabolim International Airport, Udeta is now the sought-after destination for weddings, corporate events, car launches, entertainment shows and other events in Goa.

For over 10 years now, Alila Diwa Goa has been the perfect destination for weddings and off-site corporate events, set amidst lush paddy fields, beautifully landscaped gardens dotted with water bodies, traditional Goan courtyard, sprawling banquets, and scenic poolside venues. Right from the theme to customized menus and signature cocktails, to personalized itineraries, every event is tailor-made. With the launch of Udeta, Alila Diwa Goa has now evolved the way events take place in Goa.

Udeta features a 12,000 sq. ft indoor space that can accommodate over 1200 guests. It includes a 3,600 sq. ft pre-function area and the largest pillar-less indoor space in South Goa, spread across 8,400 sq. ft with a 20ft. floor to ceiling height. Udeta is the only event venue in Goa with a built-in live Theatre Kitchen that offers a visual treat of our culinary artists preparing & serving fresh gourmet delights. The outdoor includes Lawns at Udeta and Udeta Alfresco spread across 6,000 sq. ft with a built-in bar and grill. The event space is modern, functional, and flexible that is complemented by an expert team of event planners and artisanal gourmet experiences. The venue is versatile with the outdoor and indoor spaces seamlessly weaving into each other, allowing flexibility for multiple styles of events.

The splendor of Udeta is an effusive reminder of Goa’s natural beauty with a blend of organic natural shades and textures, surrounded by a luxuriant tropical landscape. Guests are greeted by a magnificent mud wall with the light setting synced to a system, brightening up the wall as the sun sets. The ceiling of grand indoor space is a marvel, adorned with around 250 dome-shaped pendants with translucent globes consisting of a dynamic light source of any colour and hue, as needed for the various events. Every corner of this magnificent space is conceptualized right down to the last detail. Be it the cane seating and high tables in the pre-function area for breakaways, or the Udeta Alfresco with built-in bar & grill stations with outdoor seating.

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Re-Opening | The Westin Chennai Velachery Re-opens its Dining Outlets

The Westin Chennai Velachery Re-opens its Dining Outlets

July, 2021, CHENNAI, INDIA: With more government relaxations being announced in Tamil Nadu, The Westin Chennai Velachery is pleased to announce that the hotel is excited to re-open its doors of two of its multiple award-winning restaurants, Seasonal Tastes and MKC-Madras Kitchen Company. Seasonal Tastes is the all-day dining restaurant serving global cuisine from Breakfast to dinner and MKC-Madras Kitchen Company is the Café style restaurant serving Indian and Asian street eats.

Seasonal Tastes and MKC Madras Kitchen Company are ready to welcome our guests with Marriott’s Commitment to Clean, from social distancing of tables to QR Code enabled menus, to frequent sanitization of public areas, we are ensuring our guests enjoy their dining experience in a safe surrounding. When it comes to safety, our associates are always wearing masks, gloves and provide minimal contact service to all our guests.

Lakshmanan Ramanathan, General Manager, The Westin Chennai Velachery, says, “We are very pleased to welcome our guests back to our dining venues to be able to serve them with our authentic hospitality and delectable gourmet specialties. We have indeed missed our guests at the restaurants and with Marriott’s Commitment to Clean, I am confident that our guests will come back for a safe dining experience.”

Seasonal Tastes, the all-day dining restaurant will be open for Breakfast, lunch, dinners and Sunday Brunches, whereas MKC-Madras Kitchen Company is open for Lunches, Hi-Tea, and dinner.

Timings:

Seasonal Tastes: 7 AM to 8 PM

MKC-Madras Kitchen Company: 12noon to 8PM

For table reservations, please call us at +91 4466333777 or Whatsapp us at +918939892056

Address: 

154 Velachery Main Road, 

Chennai, 600042 

Tamil Nadu

International News| Emirates first-class lounge at DXB reopens

Emirates first-class lounge at Dubai International Airport’s (DXB’s) Concourse B has reopened. The airline’s business class lounge in Concourse B will remain open for first and business class travellers and eligible Skywards members.

It is the latest in a phased programme reopening for premium customers at the airport. The facilities include complimentary chauffeur drive in 70 cities and Emirates Lounge operations in Dubai, Cairo, New York JFK, Manchester, Boston, Milan, and Los Angeles.

Dubai International Airport was the busiest regional hub for international traffic before the pandemic, as it relies heavily on connecting passengers around the globe.

Recently, Dubai International Airport reopened Terminal 1 and Concourse D on June 24. They were both closed in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

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Appointment | Mr. Harpal Singh has been appointed as the new Director of Finance & Business Support at Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre.

Mr. Harpal Singh has been appointed as the new Director of Finance & Business Support at

Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre.

Overseeing the hotel's finances, Harpal is an industry veteran with roughly 15 years of

experience in the hospitality industry having previously served as Financial Controller in Crowne Plaza Today, Gurgaon (An IHG Hotel). He has also been associated with brands like

Kingdom of Dreams Gurugram and Radisson MBD Hotel Noida.

Spearheading the hotel’s business strategy, Harpal will continue to evolve innovatively finance structures, processes, and effective controls, further strengthening risk management practices, as well as developing and mentoring our Finance executives across the hotel.

Harpal’s impressive background will benefit the hotel as we seek to progress our operational and financial performances. We believe he is the ideal leader to elevate our profit growth for a strong and sustainable future," said Pankaj Gupta, General Manager.

Harpal has completed his MBA in Finance from JIMS, Delhi, and is passionate about Travelling, Playing Cricket, and Badminton.

NEWS | Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy gets into Cabinet in reshuffle

The Modi Government upgrades the Tourism and Culture, giving it Cabinet status while appointing a new minister after the two-year tenure of outgoing minister Prahlad Singh Patel.

The importance of the Tourism sector was reflected by the move of the Narendra Modi government to upgrade the Tourism and Culture Ministry to Cabinet stature and appoint G Kishan Reddy from State Minister for Home to the new Cabinet Minister for Tourism, Culture. As part of bringing synergies between departments of the government, Prime Minister Modi clubbed the Department of DoNER (Development of North Eastern Region) with the Tourism & Culture.

The Narendra Modi government kept the record for the Minister of Tourism not staying in office for more than two years intact as Kishen Reddy replaced Prahlad Singh Patel as the new Tourism and Culture Minister of India in the cabinet reshuffle and expansion on Wednesday.

Apart from upgrading to Cabinet rank, the Tourism Ministry will have two Ministers of State to assist the Cabinet Minister—Ajay Bhatt and Sripad Yesso Naik.

The last two decades alone, starting 2000, has seen 11 tourism ministers, making the average tenure of less than 2 years. With a few exceptions like Jagmohan or Ambika Soni, who remained in the Tourism Minister’s post for more than two years, there are not many in that list. Prahlad Singh Patel also completed two years in office.

Elected from the Secunderabad constituency to the Lok Sabha in the 2019 general elections, Kishan Reddy was picked as a Minister of State for Home in 2019. It’s a big promotion for Reddy to be elevated to a Cabinet position within a short span of two years.

New Venture | Berco’s chain of restaurants joins hands with Japanese food brand for its India launch

Berco’s chain of restaurants joins hands with Japanese food brand for its India launch

In the future Berco's and Bento by EN will look at opening a common kitchen as they will operate out of the same facility.

Chinese and Thai Cuisine, Berco’s is now bringing Japanese food delivery by the name of ‘Bento by EN’ in Delhi and Gurgaon. The newly launched Bento by EN has started operating their outlets in Munirka and Udyog Vihar and is rapidly planning to expand throughout the world.

Bento by EN offers a diverse selection of traditional Japanese cuisines, which encompasses all of the country's traditional food items while adhering to all of the major Covid-19 criteria, which are governed by the food ministry and have sterile equipment and kitchens. Bento focuses on introducing westerners to the full range of meals, in addition to cooking and serving a wide choice of well-known Japanese foods. The Japanese meals are available on delivery apps like Zomato, Swiggy and Dineout.

Commenting on this SJB Singh Sandhar (Raji), President & Founder - Seinan Group & Chain of Restaurants in Japan & Canada said, “With over two decades of experience in the food and beverage sector and a strong presence in Japan we planned to team up with Kabir Advani, Operator of the most established food brand, Berco’s Chain of Restaurants to grow outlets in different cities across India. For your exquisite experience, we at Bento by EN bring the widest selection of savory to your doorstep, together with the greatest Japanese authenticity of Sushi.”

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Appointment | Dinesh Rai appointed as GM at Crowne Plaza Kochi

Prior to him moving to Crowne Plaza Kochi, he held the position of General Manager with Four Points Kochi where he was responsible for pre-opening of the hotel.

Crowne Plaza Kochi has appointed Dinesh Rai as General Manager. With over two decades of experience in operation and business development, Dinesh is known for his leadership qualities complemented by diverse work experiences. He brings valuable knowledge from the wide-ranging assignments with prestigious international and Indian hospitality groups. He has worked with leading brands such as Marriott, Accor, IHG and Taj Hotels during his previous assignments.

In his new role, Rai will be responsible for the continued success of the hotel by combining cutting-edge hospitality with innovative experiences for the guests. He has consistently displayed an incisive business sense along with fostering an environment of innovative thinking for driving revenues and operational excellence in all his assignments. With an outstanding reputation in establishing personal connections with guests and associates alike, his approach to work has always been commendable.

On his new appointment, Rai says, “Crowne Plaza Kochi is a Luxury Hotel with perfect embodiment of world-class service and True Hospitality. I look forward to advancing the plan we have in place, to expand our brand’s reach, build stronger connections with the local community, maintain fruitful relationships with our partners and deliver genuine experiences for our guests. Apart from devising strategies for strong Rooms and Social business, focus will be to leverage on Food and Beverage capabilities to curate novel offerings for our house guests and the residents of Kochi.” Prior to him moving to Crowne Plaza Kochi, he held the position of General Manager with Four Points Kochi where he was responsible for pre-opening the hotel.

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New Opening | IHCL Signs A Vivanta Hotel In Ahmedabad

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), South Asia’s largest hospitality company, today announced the signing of a Vivanta hotel in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. This is a management contract for an existing hotel in the city, which would be undergoing extensive renovations before being flagged as Vivanta.

Commenting on the signing, Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “This signing is in line with IHCL’s strategy of strengthening our domestic presence in key cities. Ahmedabad is a thriving economic and industrial hub. The company will now have three of its brands – Taj, Vivanta and Ginger present in the city. We are delighted to partner with Leela Tradelinks Private Limited.”

Vivanta Ahmedabad, a 176-room hotel is strategically located on SG Highway, a comfortable driving distance from Gandhinagar, the state capital as well as important business complexes. The hotel’s dining options will include Mynt, the all-day dining restaurant, lobby café Swirl and a specialty restaurant. The recreational facilities will be a pool, fitness center and spa, meeting rooms and a banquet hall for social and business gatherings. It is a Brownfield project slated to open in 2022 after completion of its planned renovations.

Mr. Komalkant F Sharma, Chairman and Managing Director, Leela Tradelinks Private Limited said, “We are happy to partner with IHCL for Vivanta Ahmedabad. This will be the first Vivanta in the city, bringing in a refreshing new take in hospitality. I am confident that the collaborative efforts of Leela Tradelinks and IHCL will help redefine the new age of hospitality in the city of Ahmedabad.”

Ahmedabad, situated on the banks of the Sabarmati, is Gujarat’s largest city. It is an important commercial centre. The historic city of old Ahmedabad has been declared as India's first UNESCO World Heritage City

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Proposals invited for two eco tourism projects near Punjab's Ranjit Sagar Lake

Valued at around INR 550 crore, the state government proposes to set up both projects in public private partnership mode

The Punjab state government plans to set up two eco-tourism projects around Ranjit Sagar Lake in Pathankot district. Considered to be around INR 550 crore, it will be set up in public-private partnership (PPP) mode.

Officials at Punjab Infrastructure Development Board (PIDB) stated that the Nalok Tikka Pilangi lake front site is spread over 56.22 acres, while the Kulara Island measures over 18.54 acres. The respective project costs, as per the project proposal, are INR 448 crore and INR 105 crore, totaling more than INR 550 crore.

The selected bidder would also need to pay an upfront premium of INR 25 crore and INR 12 crore for the Palangi and Kurala island project respectively. Interested parties can bid for both the project sites through a single stage two-packet system. The last date of bid submission is 30th June 2021.

As per the proposal draft request, the selected bidder would be required to pay an annual concession fee of INR 3.56 crore for Palangi project and INR 2.65 crore for Kulara island project for 60 years, after which the projects would be handed over to the Punjab government.

The Amritsar Development Authority is the implementing agency for this project. Alongwith the Department of Housing & Urban Development it intends to select agencies for development of the infrastructure of the 74.76 acre area. Officials claimed that both land parcels have pre-approved environment clearance, Stage-1 forest clearance, a clear land title and is free of encroachment. A Stage-2 forest clearance would be applied for once the bidder is selected.

As per the terms and conditions of the projects, the Palangi project is to be constructed within a period of six years and Kulara island project within three years. The eco-tourism project details of Pilangi and Kulara island indicate that it will include an interpretation centre cum convention centre, eco-friendly accommodation villas, eco resort rooms, nature zone, Greens, Support facilities such as facility blocks (reception/dining/gym/club,driver/staff facilities, utilities, boating deck), roads and parking sites.

The project site would have a road connectivity of 25 km from National Highway 1 A that leads to Kashmir valley. It will be 30 km away from Pathankot railway station, 40 km from Pathankot Civil Airport and 155 km from Amritsar Internation Airport.

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NRAI seeks CCI intervention into Swiggy, Zomato ‘anti-competitive’ practices

NRAI has asked the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to investigate multiple issues, including deep discounting, data masking and violation of platform neutrality by the restaurant aggregators.

National Restaurants Association of India (NRAI) has sought the intervention of India’s anti-monopoly watchdog to resolve what it alleged were “anti-competitive practices” followed by Zomato and Swiggy, in a fresh salvo against the online food delivery platforms over a long-standing dispute between both sides.

NRAI, which represents over 500,000 restaurants across the country, has asked the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to investigate multiple issues, including deep discounting, data masking and violation of platform neutrality by the restaurant aggregators.

“During the (Covid-19) pandemic, the magnitude of anti-competitive practices of Zomato and Swiggy have increased manifold and despite numerous discussions with them, these deep funded marketplace platforms are not interested in alleviating concerns of the restaurants,” NRAI said in a statement on Monday.

“We have been in constant dialogue with foodservice aggregators over the last 15-18 months to resolve critical issues impacting the sector. However, we have not been able to resolve these issues; we have therefore approached the CCI now to look into the matter and investigate them thoroughly,” Anurag Katriar, president of NRAI, said.

NEWS | Carnival Cruise Line Returns To Guest Operations From PortMiami, Bolstering Local Economic Impact

Carnival Cruise Line Returns To Guest Operations From PortMiami, Bolstering Local Economic Impact

MIAMI, July 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Carnival Cruise Line kicked off its first cruise from in almost 16 months from PortMiami, The Cruise Capital of the World, today with the departure of Carnival Horizon, providing a significant boost to the local economy and the tens of thousands of jobs in South Florida that are supported by the cruise industry.

Carnival's resumption of service in Miami provides guests with a much-anticipated vacation and is a further boost to the economy both locally and throughout the state.  Florida is number one in the nation in cruise embarkations with the cruise industry contributing more than $9 billion in direct purchases and responsible for over 159,000 jobs.  In Miami-Dade alone, cruise activity generates approximately $7 billion of spend and 40,000 jobs annually.  Of the 437,000 cruise industry-supported jobs in the USA, nearly 37% are in Florida.

Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, Carnival Corporation President and CEO Arnold Donald and Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald kicked off the festivities with a ribbon-cutting ceremony officially welcoming guests on board.  Prior to Duffy's remarks, a moment of silence was held to honor those affected by the tragedy in Surfside.

"PortMiami is our number one homeport in terms of ships and passenger embarkations and today's return to cruising with Carnival Horizon represents an important first step in getting our company back to business while infusing much-needed capital to the thousands of workers who rely on the cruise industry for their livelihood," said Duffy.  "The past year has been challenging to say the least and I wish to thank our state and local officials, PortMiami, and our business partners and suppliers for their incredible support and patience during this time."

 "The restart of cruise ships from Miami is an exciting day for Miami's longshoremen.  We have approximately 800 members at PortMiami and their wages dropped as much as 80% during the nearly 16-month cruise suspension.  Today with Carnival Horizon's first sailing, we get back to work and look forward to supporting our families again," said Torin Ragin, president, International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) Local 1416.

Carnival Horizon will set sail today at 4 p.m. for a six-day cruise with stops in Amber Cove (Dominican Republic) and the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay.

In addition to Carnival Horizon's departure this afternoon, Carnival Vista departed Galveston yesterday, with Carnival Breeze departing from Galveston July 15 and Carnival Miracle kicking off the line's Alaska season from Seattle July 27. Mardi Gras, the line's newest ship, sets sail from Port Canaveral July 31.  Other ships in the Carnival fleet will begin service in August.

Hi- and low-res images of today's event are available here.  A video broll package is available here.   

For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

About Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line is proud to be known as America's Cruise Line with a total of 24 ships, sailing from 14 U.S. homeports and employing more than 40,000 team members from 120 nationalities.  The line's newest and most innovative ship, Mardi Gras, featuring the first roller coaster at sea and the first in the Americas powered by eco-friendly Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) starts sailing from Port Canaveral, Fla., on July 31, 2021.  As part of its 50th Birthday festivities, Carnival Celebration, sister ship to Mardi Gras, is scheduled to debut in late 2022 from PortMiami.