Zomato Indian Food Delivery INR 4538 Crores this quarter.

Domestic food delivery business reported the highest ever gross order value (GOV) in the quarter under review, increasing by 37 percent to around INR 4,538 crore, compared to INR 3,315 crore in the previous quarter.

Zomato said its operational revenue increased by 22 percent to INR 844 crore in April-June, while net losses rose over 168 percent from the previous quarter to INR 360 crore, as the food delivery platform presented its maiden quarterly earnings as a public company on Tuesday.

While INR 806 crore of operational revenue came from India, revenue of INR 31 crore was logged from the UAE, and the balance from other markets.

Zomato said its adjusted revenue — which is a combination of revenue from operations and customer delivery charges — increased 26 percent to INR 1,160 crore in the June quarter, compared to around Rs 920 crore in the March quarter.

“Revenue growth was largely on the back of growth in our core food delivery business, which continued to grow despite the severe Covid-19 wave starting April,” said cofounder and chief executive Deepinder Goyal in the company’s filings to the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Zomato said the increase in losses is due “largely on account of non-cash Esop (employee stock ownership plan) expenses, which have increased meaningfully in Q1 of FY22 due to significant Esop grants made… pursuant to creation of a new Esop 2021 scheme.’

Zomato | Zomato's revenue grows to INR 844 crore as losses widen 168% for April-June quarter

Zomato's revenue grows to INR 844 crore as losses widen 168% for April-June quarter

While INR 806 crore of operational revenue came from India, revenue of INR 31 crore was logged from the UAE, and the balance from other markets.

zomato said its operational revenue increased by 22 percent to INR 844 crore in April-June, while net losses rose over 168 percent from the previous quarter to INR 360 crore, as the food delivery platform presented its maiden quarterly earnings as a public company on Tuesday.

While INR 806 crore of operational revenue came from India, revenue of INR 31 crore was logged from the UAE, and the balance from other markets.

Zomato said its adjusted revenue — which is a combination of revenue from operations and customer delivery charges — increased 26 percent to INR 1,160 crore in the June quarter, compared to around Rs 920 crore in the March quarter.

“Revenue growth was largely on the back of growth in our core food delivery business, which continued to grow despite the severe Covid-19 wave starting April,” said cofounder and chief executive Deepinder Goyal in the company’s filings to the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Zomato said the increase in losses is due “largely on account of non-cash Esop (employee stock ownership plan) expenses, which have increased meaningfully in Q1 of FY22 due to significant Esop grants made… pursuant to creation of a new Esop 2021 scheme.’

The Gurgaon-based company, which listed successfully on the BSE last month, reported total losses of INR 134 crore in the March quarter, with revenue at INR 692 crore. In the June quarter, it earned revenue of INR 266 crore, with losses of nearly INR 100 crore.

Zomato’s market capitalisation stood at a little over INR 98,000 crore as of Tuesday, as the stock closed at INR 124.95, down by more than 4 percent.

Spike In Orders
The company said the domestic food delivery business reported the highest ever gross order value (GOV) in the quarter under review, increasing by 37 percent to around INR 4,538 crore, compared to INR 3,315 crore in the previous quarter.

GOV is the total monetary value of all food delivery orders placed on Zomato India, including taxes, customer delivery charges, gross of all discounts, excluding tips.

National Geographic has teamed up with Michelin Starred Chef Vikas Khanna to delight viewers with something special this Independence Day

What's cooking between National Geographic and Chef Vikas Khanna ahead of Independence Day? 

National Geographic, a brand known for its rich legacy of authentic and impactful storytelling has teamed up with Michelin Starred Chef Vikas Khanna to delight viewers with something special this Independence Day. In a special teaser, Vikas Khanna can be seen cooking a tricolor dish as a homage to the ancestors. The dish truly represents the essence of India with its vibrant colors.

Born in Amritsar, Vikas Khanna had the disability of misaligned legs. He endured overwhelming obstacles to achieve his dreams and become a successful Michelin-starred chef. Today, he is known to many as India’s favourite Chef and one of the best-known Indians in the world of food.

NEWS | Chhattisgarh Tourism to formulate guidelines for homestay and water-based tourism soon

hese guidelines are being planned to make tourism development in the state more inclusive, community-oriented and sustainable.

Chhattisgarh Tourism will formulate guidelines for homestays and water-based tourism activities in the state soon. These guidelines are being planned to make tourism development in the state more inclusive, community-oriented and sustainable.

Informing this at an e-conclave on tourism organized by the Industry Chamber, FICCI, Shubhda Chaturvedi, Head - Communications and Marketing, Chhattisgarh Tourism has said that the tourism board is working with self-help groups in the state to ensure community participation in the tourism activities in Chhattisgarh so that the benefits of tourism development can reach the rural communities and deliver gainful employment opportunities.

Chaturvedi informed that the state tourism board is working closely with the agencies like ToFTigers and Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI) to advance the potential in eco-tourism and agri-tourism in Chhattisgarh.

As far as connectivity and accessibility are concerned, she said that the state is well connected by road, rail, and air. The opening of airports at Jagdalpur and Bilaspur, in addition to the Raipur airport, has considerably improved the accessibility to the state in the last year, she said.

Source

IHCL reports Q1 revenue from operations at INR 345 cr; losses at INR 301.5 cr

IHCL Board approves raising of long term funds not exceeding INR 250 crore by way of secured or unsecured long term financing.

Tata Group backed Indian Hotel Company's board has approved raising of long term funds not exceeding Rs 250 crore by way of secured or unsecured long term financing in one or a combination of external commercial borrowings, foreign currency borrowings, non-convertible debentures, term loans or through any other debt instrument in one or more tranches on Monday.

At a board meeting, the board also authorised a committee to determine and approve the quantum, timing and nature of terms and conditions of the instrument to be issued.

IHCL reported revenue from operations of INR 344.55 crore for the quarter ended June this year, up from INR 144 crore in the corresponding period of the last fiscal. On a quarter on quarter basis though, it reported a 44 per cent fall in revenues.

It reported losses of INR 301.5 crore down from INR 313 crore in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, losses were up by 102 per cent.

IHCL said business for the quarter was severely impacted on account of the second wave and the chain witnessed softer revenues due to partial or complete lockdowns in several states of India.

Hyatt News | Thompson Hollywood Debuts in the Heart of Los Angeles

The 190-Room Property Expands Thompson Hotels' West Coast Footprint with Interior Design by Tara Bernerd & Partners, Signature Dining Concepts from Acclaimed Chef Lincoln Carson, the Bar Lis Rooftop Lounge and Beyond

(CHICAGO)  August 9, 2021 –– Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) is proud to announce the debut of Thompson Hollywood, the luxury lifestyle hotel situated on Wilcox Avenue near Hollywood and Vine. A dynamic mix of global sophistication, hyper-local immersion and intuitive service, the prime location embodies the Thompson Hotels brand’s promise to provide guests with the ultimate “in-the-know” experience at the refined edge of travel. The new 11-story hotel features 190 mid-century-inspired guestrooms, including 16 suites, a sophisticated feature dining concept from acclaimed LA-based chef Lincoln Carson and Bar Lis, a destination rooftop lounge and pool with unparalleled city views. Sure to be a gathering spot for tasteful travelers and the eclectic Hollywood community alike, the much-anticipated project is owned by Relevant Group in collaboration with Steinberg Hart for architecture and interior design by Tara Bernerd & Partners, with Ten Five Hospitality overseeing food and beverage.

Thoughtfully designed by renowned London-based interior architecture studio Tara Bernerd & Partners, the 11-floor hotel innovatively combines the hallmarks of timeless elegance with a raw industrial edge to create a unique atmosphere that is relaxing and inspiring, familiar and new.  The overall design is bold and confident, drawing upon the West Coast Modernist movement and a dash of Hollywood glamour as inspirations toseamlessly blend for a contemporary and elegant approach throughout.

Upon entry, a trellis-covered walkway beckons guests to a lobby adorned in mid-toned timber and teeming with verdant greenery, forming a tranquil and welcoming haven upon arrival. A spectacular custom terrazzo floor awaits guests underfoot, featuring an intricate metal inlay pattern that perfectly complements the elegant mid-century and contemporary furniture, bespoke Tara Bernerd & Partners rugs and inviting terrazzo reception desk. The convenient lobby bar - topped with a striking retro-green onyx - serves up coffee, cocktails or casual bites for those coming, going or staying to socialize, all with the laid-back hospitality and inclusive spirit emblematic of the Thompson Hotels brand’s desire to ensure everyone who walks through the doors feels more like a resident than a guest.    

Makeover | Hyatt Regency Chennai turns 10 and is getting a makeover

Tarun Seth, general manager of the hotel is confident that by mid 2022, the city will get a more contemporary property.

The Hyatt Regency Chennai turned ten this weekend and ETHospitaltyWorld spoke with Tarun Seth, the general manager of the property on the occasion.

“I arrived when the hotel was not yet seven years old and now, it’s turning 10 in front of me. I'll be witnessing the celebration of the 10th year. Hyatt Regency Chennai was the first Hyatt in south India. It obviously makes this occasion even more special. We've been able to not just establish ourselves in this decade but been able to set up our footprint in a very formidable manner in the region,” Seth said.

Over these 10 years, the hotel had been a preferred choice for instance during sporting events, he said, with a large room inventory, second only to the ITC Grand Chola, and around 30,000 square feet of banqueting space. The hotel was the base for Sunriser Hyderabad this year, he said.

Large banquet space also made them ideal for the MICE business in Chennai, especially medical conferences in the city, he added. “Chennai obviously does not enjoy the highest rate amongst all Metro—it possibly comes last. But travel has really begun well, in fact, in the month of July occupancies around this part of the city in overall comm set has come to about close to 45 to 50 percent. We as a hotel did almost close to 48 percent occupancy in the last month and I think looking at August we might start doing 55 to 60 percent occupancy, which is only 15 to 20 percent less than our pre Covid levels,” Seth said on business this year.

While staycations continue and remain a bedrock of business during the weekends, small businesses have also started to travel—those with local negotiated contracts, in and around the city. Business is coming in from Coimbatore, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, markets which have opened up for them, he said, adding that some medical companies have also started having smaller conferences, all within the Covid rules.

"The hotel is actually sprucing up all its rooms. And by mid 2022, the work to upgrade the rooms and interiors will be complete. So, by next June you will possibly have 325 very contemporary rooms completely renewed from inside. That's a very big takeaway that in the 10th year, the promoters have really gone all out to invest more money into the property," Seth added in conclusion.

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Dubai's hotel sector is gearing up for Expo 2020

The world's largest and most impactful event ever to take place between OCtober, 2021, and 31st March, 2022

Dubai's hotel sector is gearing up for Expo 2020 Dubai, the world's largest and most impactful event ever to take place in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, from 1st October, 2021, to 31st March, 2022, while recovery from the COVID-19 is gaining momentum globally and the UAE is getting ready to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of its formation.

With Expo 2020’s theme of ''Connecting Minds, Creating the Future'', as well as one or more of its sub-themes of Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability, Dubai will welcome visitors from every corner of the globe to join the making of a new world, as it brings together the planet in one place to reimagine tomorrow.

The United Arab Emirates services and business sectors, spearheaded by the hotel, travel and tourism industry, have been working tirelessly to make visitors to Expo enjoy a safe, inspiring and unforgettable experience during the six-month world event.

Wego, which specialises in travel services and online reservations, stated that various countries are awaiting the start of Expo 2020 Dubai. The company revealed that it witnessed, through its website, about 533,000 searches during July, on flights and hotels for the period in which this event will be held.

This indicates the increasing demand that Dubai is witnessing, and the rapid recovery of the business tourism sector, noting that in light of the preparations for Expo 2020 Dubai, hotels have begun to allocate packages and extended stay offers specifically for visitors to the exhibition, the company stated.

Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) revealed that until May 2021, there were 128,545 hotel rooms in Dubai. There were 715 hotel establishments, including 134 five-star hotels.

Dubai Tourism's statistics showed that the emirate welcomed 2.06 million international overnight visitors from January to May 2021.

The Emirate has one of the highest number of hotel rooms in the world, according to a study by travel site Insider Monkey. Dubai has 100,000 hotel rooms available for visiting guests.

Dubai has hotels such as Burj Al Arab and The Address and hosts seven hotels from the 12 tallest in the world including the Gevora Hotel (356.3 metres), JW Marriott Marquis Dubai (355m), SLS Dubai Hotel and Residences (336m), Rose Rayhaan by Rotana (333m), Burj Al Arab (321m), Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel (309m) and Millennium Plaza (294m).

The Dubai hotel sector is building more hotels despite the challenge and impact of COVID-19 on global tourism and travel.

Expo 2020 Dubai will be the largest cultural gathering in the world and will provide inspiring experiences for 182 days. More than 200 entities will contribute to these experiences, including countries, multilateral organisations, companies, and educational institutions, as well as millions of visitors, to create a version that is the largest and most diverse.

Source

Trends | National Digital Tourism Mission may be reality soon

Arvind Singh, Secretary — Tourism, Government of India

announced that a task force had been formed and initial deliberations begun on a mission intended to connect all stakeholders in the tourism ecosystem digitally.

The National Digital Tourism Mission for India may soon become a reality as Arvind Singh, Secretary — Tourism, Government of India said his Ministry had started initial deliberations on the same at an e-conclave on travel and tourism organized by FICCI on August 6, 2021.

The Tourism Ministry had formed a Task Force for the National Digital Tourism Mission which had already had its first virtual meeting this week.

The Tourism Secretary said that the Ministry had started the digitization process during the Covid19 pandemic itself by launching NIDHI and SAATHI projects. He said that the Ministry has started expanding the NIDHI system by bringing tour operators, travel agents, etc. also on the platform. Singh said that the National Digital Tourism Mission was intended to connect stakeholders in the tourism eco-system digitally in the same lines as the National Health Mission.

Source

Trends | Conrad Bengaluru offers travel leisure options within the city for travelers

The Great Small Breaks staycation offers complimentary stays and meals for children aged below 12, among other experiences

As the unlock unfolds and families are eager for short –distance getaways, Conrad Bengaluru has come out with the perfect option. Under the umbrella of Hilton’s campaign “Great Small Breaks”, a one of a one-of-a-kind staycation offer, tailor-made for families and young guests, Conrad Bengaluru has launched their version of leisure travel within the city for leisure travelers, especially families.

This initiative by the property promises to enhance the Conrad experience for families, especially their young ones with complimentary stays, personalized surprises, interactive games and a whole host of fun activities.

“As the Garden city, unlocks to its residents, we took this opportunity to gift our little ones an experience of boundless joy and happiness in a safe abode. Under our brand initiative of Great Small Breaks, we connected the hearts of millions in the city for an inspiring weekend getaways. With this initiative, we have touched the aspects of capturing the entire journey of a Little Guest – from a Disney land experiential welcome, to an elevated Check in, Room stay, kids menu, kids zone activities and much more to delight them. As we are returning back to travel, we are here to imbued and spread the warmth of Hilton Hospitality across the globe”, said Srijan Vadhera, General Manager, Conrad Bengaluru.

The experience begins straight from the guest’s doorstep with a customized, fairy-tale like pickup service. The property cars are decorated with balloons, filled with chocolates along with games to keep the young ones occupied while on their way to the property. On arrival, the guests are greeted with a larger than life Mickey Mouse and a tray filled with lollypops, marshmallows and chocolate dip, as a welcome treat. With a special check -in counter with an elevated step for the young ones, they are asked to fill in their preferences for cupcakes, chocolates or cookies.

New Opening of 2021 | #3 The Dubai Edition, opening in second half of the year 2021

Launching by the end of 2021, the Dubai EDITION will be the UAE’s second EDITION property, following on from the successful arrival of the Abu Dhabi EDITION in the capital’s Al Bateen Marina at the end of 2018. In Dubai, the luxury lifestyle hotel will be located opposite The Dubai Mall. The hotel will feature 275 guestrooms and suites and will cater to the leisure traveller with a number of restaurants and bars, a pool, spa and fitness centre. With business travellers in mind, the hotel will also feature events spaces including meeting rooms and a flexible ballroom.

NEWS | Owners of restaurants, bars and hotels across Maharashtra to hold silent protest march on August 10

The owners of restaurants, bars and hotels across Maharashtra have decided to hold a silent protest march on August 10 as a last resort if the state does not restore their operation timings to their original, at least 10 pm.

The owners of restaurants, bars and hotels across Maharashtra have decided to hold a silent protest march on August 10 as a last resort if the state does not restore their operation timings to their original, at least 10 pm.

The resolution came in at the joint meeting of all the hotel associations and their apex bodies in the state. The hospitality industry has already expressed grave disappointment over alleged discrimination by the authorities in not allowing hotels to operate beyond 4 pm even as all other outlets can now function till 10 pm.

They have contended that in settings as diverse as roadside eateries and aircraft cabins, people were being allowed to remove masks for longer periods while eating. They said there was no evidence of restaurants causing more Covid-19 spread than other businesses. In fact, they also see a larger conspiracy to promote food delivery aggregators.

"The number of shops in the city of Mumbai would be at least 10 times more than the number of restaurants. We fail to understand how curtailing the timings of a restaurant while not curtailing any other business activities can be justified for the purposes of prevention or mitigation of the pandemic. In fact, the public interface at other outlets is far more than in restaurants. Also, there is no scientific data to point out that restaurant business jeopardises public health and is thus required to be restricted continuously," HRAWI senior vice president Pradeep Shetty had stated in letters sent to the municipal commissioner as well as chief secretary

AHAR president Shivanand Shetty said initially they will hold a press conference to address the media on discrimination and the state of the industry besides spreading awareness through social media before resorting to the protest march.

NEWS | Kerala hotels and resorts can now operate in ‘bio-bubble’

The State Disaster Management Authority announced the move in an effort to release some of the stress in Kerala’s crucial hospitality and tourism industries

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has allowed hotels and resorts in the state to function in a ‘bio-bubble’ from August 5, 2021. Covid restrictions on events, parties, conferences, would continue. Weddings and funerals can take place with a maximum of 20 people, it added.

The move among the severe restrictions on trade and industry in the state comes as a huge relief with the latest communique also stating that accommodation facilities like hotels, resorts, would be allowed to operate in a bio-bubble model in all areas on all days of the week. While allowing it to function on all days under the ‘bio-bubble’ model, the guidelines strictly mandate such establishments to display the status of vaccination of employees and the number of customers permitted at a time.

Such establishments were only allowed persons who have taken at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine before two weeks or who are in possession of the RT-PCR negative certificate taken 72 hours before or who are in possession of the Covid-19 positive results more than a month old shall be allowed inside as workers as well as visitors.

The restrictions on indoor dining in restaurants would continue to remain suspended. However, dining would now be allowed in open areas, parking lots, with six feet distancing. Restaurants are now allowed to serve food online till 9.30 pm.

The Test Positivity Rate in Kerala was above 10 percent and half of the total Covid-19 positive cases in the country currently are reported from the state.

Award | The Brasserie restaurant at Hilton Mumbai International Airport Wins 2021 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award

The Brasserie restaurant at Hilton Mumbai International Airport Wins 2021 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 

Great diner reviews earn The Brasserie restaurant a place amongst
the top 10% of restaurants worldwide

Mumbai, Maharashtra – , 2021 – Hilton Mumbai International Airport announced today that it’s multi-cuisine restaurant ‘The Brasserie’ has been recognized as a 2021 Travellers’ Choice award winner for the Restaurant Category. 

This achievement celebrates businesses that consistently deliver fantastic experiences to travellers and diners around the globe, having earned great traveller reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months. As challenging as the past year has been, The Brasserie by Hilton Mumbai International airport stood out by continuously delighting travellers and diners alike.

“Our team is elated as The Brasserie restaurant has been awarded second year in-a-row the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, which is purely on the merit of user reviews. In this particularly challenging year, we stood out by providing great service and experiences to your guests. All credit goes to the wonderful team working always to serve the heartfelt hospitality to our guests and upholding Hilton CleanStay protocols to make our diners feel comfortable. We are truly honored that The Brasserie has been given this prestigious honor by Tripadvisor. We look forward to continued love and support.” said Mr. Brijesh Singh, F&B Manager, Hilton Mumbai International airport.

“Congratulations to all the winners of the 2021 Travellers’ Choice Awards,” said Kanika Soni, Chief Commercial Officer at Tripadvisor. “I know the past year has been extremely challenging for tourism businesses. What has impressed me is how businesses adapted to these challenges, implementing new cleanliness measures, adding social distancing guidelines, and utilizing technology to prioritize guest safety. The Travellers’ Choice Awards highlight the places that are consistently excellent - delivering quality experiences time and time again even while navigating changing customer expectations and new ways of working. Based on a full year of reviews from customers, this award speaks to the great service and experience you provided guests in the midst of a pandemic.”

To see diner reviews and popular dishes, activities, features and amenities of The Brasserie by Hilton Mumbai International Airport visit https://www.tripadvisor.in/Restaurant_Review-g304554-d6158439-Reviews-The_Brasserie-Mumbai_Maharashtra.html

Hilton Mumbai International Airport is located on Sahar Airport Rd, Ashok Nagar, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099. You can reach out to us. For room reservations: reservations.mumbai@hilton.com, for business inquiries: business.mumbai@hilton.com, and for dining reservations: dining.mumbai@hilton.com; or call us on +91 22 2838 0000/ 6199 0000.

About Hilton Mumbai International Airport

Hilton Mumbai International Airport offers a unique blend of colonial-era influences and contemporary design, at one of the most convenient locations near the airport. The upscale, 171-room hotel is just a five-minute drive from the international airport, a 15-minute drive from the domestic airport, and a 5-minute from International within easy access of the commercial, shopping, and entertainment centers. Designed as an elegant 19th-century colonial summer palace, the hotel offers the latest technology and best-in-class modern amenities. Dining options encompass three restaurants, a lobby lounge, and a garden bar.

The Hilton Mumbai International Airport hotel is equipped with 4,847 square feet of function space; a 2,420 square feet ballroom and 2 grand halls. The function facilities provide flexible seating arrangements, large pre-function areas and the latest in audio-visual technology, making it ideal for corporate events, social functions and weddings. The hotel also offers business travelers a business center with 4 meeting rooms, all with wireless internet access. For the after-work hours, the hotel offers an outdoor pool and a fitness center. 

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 18 world-class brands comprising more than 6,400 properties and more than one million rooms, in 119 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed more than 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, earned a top spot on the 2020 World’s Best Workplaces list, and was named the 2020 Global Industry Leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. In 2020, Hilton CleanStay was introduced, bringing an industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection to hotels worldwide. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 112 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can’t buy, plus enjoy instant benefits, including contactless check-in with room selection, Digital Key, and Connected Room. Visit newsroom.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Hilton Hotels & Resorts

Hilton Hotels & Resorts has set the benchmark for hospitality around the world, providing new product innovations and services to meet guests' evolving needs. With more than 575 hotels across six continents, Hilton Hotels & Resorts properties are located in the world’s most sought-after destinations for guests who know that where they stay matters. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Begin your journey at www.hiltonhotels.com, and learn more by visiting newsroom.hilton.com/hhr and following Hilton Hotels & Resorts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor, the world's largest travel platform*, helps hundreds of millions of travelers each month** make every trip their best trip. Travelers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to browse more than 878 million reviews and opinions of 8.8 million accommodations, restaurants, experiences, airlines and cruises. Whether planning or on a trip, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to compare low prices on hotels, flights and cruises, book popular tours and attractions, as well as reserve tables at great restaurants. Tripadvisor, the ultimate travel companion, is available in 49 markets and 28 languages.

The subsidiaries of Tripadvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRIP), own and operate a portfolio of travel media brands and businesses, operating under various websites and apps, including the following websites:

 www.bokun.io, www.cruisecritic.com, www.flipkey.com, www.thefork.com (including www.lafourchette.com, www.eltenedor.com, www.bookatable.co.uk, and www.delinski.com), www.helloreco.com, www.holidaylettings.co.uk, www.housetrip.com, www.jetsetter.com, www.niumba.com, www.seatguru.com, www.singleplatform.com, www.vacationhomerentals.com, and www.viator.com.

New Opening of 2021 | #2 Raffles Resort The Palm, opening in second half of the year 2021

Raffles bringing a second luxury resort to Dubai later this year, rebranding the former Emerald Palace Kempinski into an ultra-luxury Raffles resort. There will be eight restaurants and bars, while those familiar with the Raffles brand will welcome the arrival of the brand’s signature Raffles Patisserie, Writer’s Lounge and butler service. There will be 389 keys, with guest rooms starting from 65 square metres and each coming with a balcony or terrace with sea views.

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NEWS | New data from Booking.com reveals domestic and international travel preferences of Indian travellers

New data from Booking.com reveals domestic and international travel preferences of Indian travellers 

INDIA, August 2021: With a bank of accrued vacation days and restrictions finally starting to ease in India and other parts of the world, it’s no wonder travellers are looking to escape their lockdown surroundings. Travellers are looking for an escape from their normal lives and others are looking forward to some time away with family and friends after being apart for so long. Booking.com, the digital travel leader connecting travellers with the widest choice of unique places to stay, today shared a list of the top searched domestic and international destinations on Booking.com by Indian travellers in the month of August 2021. 

Indicating an intent to travel, the USA, Russia and Maldives are among the top 3 most searched international destinations for August 2021 as Indians hope for ease in international travel restrictions. Closer to home, in addition to metro cities, travellers are looking forward to enjoying nature and escaping to the outdoors -  searching for leisurely destinations like Lonavala and Leh which are amongst the topmost searched domestic destinations by Indian travellers in August 2021.

Decoding destination preferences by Indian travellers for international travel: 

With hopes for ease in international travel restrictions, especially for fully vaccinated travellers, Indians have shown interest in travelling to international destinations. For travellers who are open to flying and cross borders again, the USA, Russia, Maldives, Switzerland and Qatar are amongst the top 5 most searched destinations by Indian outbound travellers.

Top searched international destinations by Indian travellers in the month of August 2021*:

1.       USA

2.       Russia

3.       Maldives

4.       Switzerland

5.       Qatar

6.       Canada

7.       UK

8.       Mexico

9.       Armenia

10.   France

Domestic travel preferences by Indian travellers

Domestic travel continues to remain prevalent with many Indian travellers looking forward to exploring their own country and choosing destinations closer to home. Booking.com data backs this, with earlier research revealing 52% of Indian travellers are looking forward to exploring their home country this year. Metro cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru continue to be the top searched destinations for August 2021. Closer-to-home and leisurely destinations such as Lonavala, Jaipur and Leh are also some of the top searched destinations in August 2021 by Indian travellers.

Top searched domestic destinations by Indian travellers in the month of August 2021*:

1.       New Delhi

2.       Mumbai

3.       Lonavala

4.       Bengaluru

5.       Chennai

6.       Kolkata

7.       Jaipur

8.       Hyderabad 

9.       Leh

10.   Udaipur

Accommodation Types 

While hotels continue to be the top searched accommodation by Indian travellers travelling domestically, travellers are also looking to stay in alternative accommodations like guest houses, villas and apartments considering the renewed emphasis on privacy, sufficient space and personal control over cleanliness and hygiene.

Top 5 accommodation types searched by Indian travellers travelling within India in the month of August 2021*:

1.       Hotel

2.       Resort

3.       Guest House

4.       Villa

5.       Apartment

Health and safety continues to be a key traveller priority

Cleanliness continues to be top of mind for travellers with more guests searching for transparency around cleaning measures at the property. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Booking.com has witnessed a dramatic uptick in the use of specific words used by guests when they ask questions about a property. For example, the use of the words “clean” and “hygiene” have both increased by over 60%. In addition to cleanliness, Booking.com has witnessed an increase in travellers booking stays with flexible cancellation policies due to the uncertain environment. 

To provide travellers with transparency in health and hygiene at an accommodation, Booking.com introduced the health and safety measures feature on its platform last year that allows accommodation partners to select the different health & safety measures they are taking in areas such as hygiene, sanitization, social distancing and food safety amongst others. Booking.com offers a Flexible-1 Day policy allowing travellers to cancel for free up till one day before check-in as well as one-date change to travellers who book a non-refundable rate.

Commenting on the Indian travel sentiment, Ritu Mehrotra, Regional Manager, South Asia at Booking.com said, “With more and more Indians getting vaccinated and travel restrictions being lifted in phases, we are starting to see pent-up demand for travel. Travel trends that emerged during the pandemic such as closer-to-home destinations, staycations and road-trips still remain popular, but at the same time we are also seeing travel intent gradually resume for international travel. And as a leader in travel, Booking.com will continue to make it easier for people to experience the world in a safe manner - we will be there for our customers offering the widest accommodation choice at great value so travellers can enjoy all of the unforgettable experiences this world has to offer, when the time is right and it is safe to do so. ”

Methodology

*The data scientists at Booking.com looked at the most searched domestic and international destinations and accommodation types by Indian travellers in August 2021. 

**Destinations stated are as per current top searches and are subject to change as the travel environment changes

About Booking.com: 

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world whenever it’s safe to do so again. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com seamlessly connects millions of travellers with memorable experiences, a range of transportation options and incredible places to stay - from homes to hotels and much more. As one of the world’s largest travel marketplaces for both established brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes, Booking.com enables properties all over the world to reach a global audience and grow their businesses. Booking.com is available in 44 languages and offers more than 28.4 million total reported accommodation listings, including more than 6.6 million listings of homes, apartments and other unique places to stay. No matter where you want to go or what you want to do, Booking.com makes it easy and backs it all up with 24/7 customer support.

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NEWS | Vasai Taluka Hotel Association To Organize Silent Protest Against Govt.’s Decision On Continued Curbs

Vasai Taluka Hotel Association To Organize Silent Protest Against Govt.’s Decision On Continued Curbs

Mumbai, Aug 03: The Vasai Taluka Hotel Association (VTHA) with the support of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has organized a silent protest against the Government’s decision on continued restrictions on restaurant timings in the district. Tomorrow at 11 am, over 200 hotelier and restaurateurs from the region will join their last-ditch survival protest to express their desperation and helplessness against the continued lockdown. The long-distance protest will commence at Tungar Phata, Vasai and culminate at Collector’s office – Palghar. The Association will submit its plea to the Collector demanding the easing of restrictions for the hotel and restaurant industry. The two Associations have also cited the unfortunate death of a Virar-based hotelier who committed suicide last month due to loss of livelihood because of the Government’s neglect towards the Hospitality industry.

“The industry is at the brink of collapse and the Government is doing nothing to save it. We are not being allowed to operate our businesses but are expected to pay the Government its taxes and other statutory levies without fail. We are organizing this protest to bring to the attention of the authorities the deteriorating condition of our industry. We want the Government to relax the restrictions for us to be able to support our employees and families. We also want the Government to provide us with financial reliefs which so many other States have done to save their Hospitality industry. One of our own recently succumbed to the financial and mental stress caused by the devastation to his business. Debts collectors are at our doorsteps every day and we don’t know how to repay them when we don’t even know when we can go back to re-opening our business,” says Mr. Nagraj Shetty, Secretary, VTHA.

HRAWI has stated that imposition on restaurants’ operation timings is unfair. It has pleaded that restaurants either be allowed to run businesses as usual or if not, at least be offered reliefs and waivers by the Government to unburden them from statutory financial obligations.

“There is no reason for imposing restrictions on restaurant timings and if it is going to continue with the restrictions then the least the Government needs to do is waive the statutory charges for restaurants. A restaurant’s business is in the evenings and hence operating till 4 pm is meaningless. We are being singled out and left to hang dry. The Government needs to lift the restrictions immediately or we will continue to hold similar protests across the State at local levels. It is very disappointing that the Government is not interacting with us, there is no communication. We need a clear roadmap about what is to be expected from the Government for us to accordingly make informed decisions for our businesses,” concludes Mr. Sherry Bhatia, President, HRAWI.

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 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 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 | Hyatt Reports Second-Quarter 2021 Results

Mark S. Hoplamazian, president and chief executive officer of Hyatt Hotels Corporation, said, "Second quarter results improved significantly as travel demand rebounded sharply in certain markets. While leisure travel continues to lead the recovery, we are very encouraged by continued improvements in business transient and group. Accelerating RevPAR growth expanded our operating leverage and as a result we generated positive Adjusted EBITDA and operating cash flow in the quarter."

Second quarter of 2021 highlights are as follows:

• Net losses decreased compared to the second quarter of 2020 to a $9 million net loss.

• Adjusted EBITDA increased compared to the second quarter of 2020, to $55 million.

• Comparable system-wide RevPAR increased to $72.47 in the second quarter of 2021, and decreased 49.8% compared to the second quarter 2019 on a reported basis.

• Comparable owned and leased hotels RevPAR increased to $86.66 in the second quarter of 2021 and decreased 53.4% compared to the second quarter 2019 on a reported basis.

• Net rooms growth of 7.1%.

• As of June 30, 2021, the Company had cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $1,737 million.

Mr. Hoplamazian continued, "While the recovery is likely to remain uneven over the coming months, we remain confident in continued momentum in RevPAR growth given positive forward-looking indicators in our business. Furthermore, the strength of our brands continues to yield industry-leading net rooms growth. We opened 100 properties over the last twelve months and maintain a strong pipeline representing over 40% of our existing rooms."

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Marriott International Reports Second Quarter 2021 Results

• Second quarter 2021 comparable systemwide constant dollar RevPAR increased 262.6 percent worldwide, 274.6 percent in the U.S. & Canada, and 223.2 percent in international markets, compared to the 2020 second quarter;

• Second quarter 2021 comparable systemwide constant dollar RevPAR declined 43.8 percent worldwide, 39.5 percent in the U.S. & Canada, and 55.6 percent in international markets, compared to the 2019 second quarter;

• Second quarter reported diluted EPS totaled $1.28, compared to reported diluted loss per share of $0.72 in the year-ago quarter. Second quarter adjusted diluted EPS totaled $0.79, compared to second quarter 2020 adjusted diluted loss per share of $0.57;

• Second quarter reported net income totaled $422 million, compared to reported net loss of $234 million in the year-ago quarter. Second quarter adjusted net income totaled $260 million, compared to second quarter 2020 adjusted net loss of $184 million;

• Adjusted EBITDA totaled $558 million in the 2021 second quarter, compared to second quarter 2020 adjusted EBITDA of $61 million;

• The company added nearly 25,000 rooms globally during the second quarter, including roughly 13,000 rooms in international markets and a total of approximately 5,300 conversion rooms. Gross rooms growth was 6.1 percent for the twelve months ended June 30, 2021;

• At quarter end, Marriott’s worldwide development pipeline totaled 2,750 properties and nearly 478,000 rooms, including roughly 19,000 rooms approved, but not yet subject to signed contracts. More than 212,000 rooms in the pipeline were under construction as of the end of the 2021 second quarter.

New Opening of 2021 | #1 Atlantis, The Royal, opening in second half of the year 2021

The long-awaited Atlantis, The Royal will debut next door to Atlantis The Palm, creating a hospitality and entertainment destination spanning roughly 63 hectares. It will boast 795 rooms and suites, keep cool at more than 90 swimming pools – including an infinity pool 90m in length and soaring almost 96m above The Palm – and dine at outposts by some of the world’s most acclaimed chefs, including Heston Blumenthal and José Andrés.