News | Nagpur's Chidambara Hotel will make way for 3-star property

The erstwhile Hotel Royal Palace, which emerged as a landmark during the 1990s — a time when the city’s landscape began to change gradually — but also slipped into oblivion during the years to come, is being demolished.

Now known as Hotel Chidambara on Central Bazar Road in Ramdaspeth, it was also among the prime properties to be auctioned by a bank those days when loan defaults had become a major issue. The hotel was taken over by Shikshak Sahakari Bank, which auctioned it under the Maharashtra State Cooperatives Act to recover its dues.

The current structure is being broken down to pave way for another hotel, a 3-star one.

The property spread in an area of over 9,600 square feet has been purchased by Orient Group, which runs a chain of nine budget hotels in the city.

The property was purchased for INR 12 crore from one Agrawal family, whose members held it after the death of the patriarch Balakrishna Agrawal who had originally bought the hotel from Shikshak Sahakari Bank.

Afzal Mitha of the Orient Group, who confirmed the development, said there are plans to build a new hotel in three years. “The property was purchased last year and now as the situation is improving on the Covid front, we have started with the demolition work,” he said.

The Orient Group plans to build an eight-storeyed structure with 60 rooms in the new hotel, apart from facility like banquet hall, he said.

The Hotel Royal Palace originally belonged to Raj Kumar Khattar, a businessman from the city. As it went into losses, Shikshak Sahakari Bank took over the property. Khattar’s bungalow behind Alankar theatre was also taken over by the bank.

The auction by the bank had gained much attention in 2003. After over three rounds, it finally fetched over INR 4.52 crore, said a source in the bank.

Agrawal had then changed the name from Hotel Royal Palace to Hotel Chidambara. The hotel ran for some years and ultimately closed down around decade ago. Even under the new management, the hotel came under hammer. This time, the action was under Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act (SARFESI Act) by a PSU bank.

Mitha said this would be the first ever premium hotel of the Orient Group. “So far, we have been only into budget hotels where the business depends on volumes,” he added.

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New Opening | Standard International CEO, Amar Lalvani, Discusses the Outlook for Hospitality and Introduces the newest Standard hotels slated to open in 2021 and 2022

The Standard will open its highly anticipated Asia flagship, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon along with two seaside retreats, The Standard, Hua Hin and The Standard, Ibiza

New York, NY, September 2021– Amar Lalvani, CEO of Standard International (parent company of the Standard Hotels), presents the case for optimism in the hospitality business amidst the ongoing challenges resulting from Covid-19, along with his company’s navigation of the crisis and continued global growth. 

The latest additions to the company’s growing portfolio, The Standard, Hua Hin, The Standard’s first resort in Thailand, will open on December 1st, 2021, followed by The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, the brand’s highly anticipated Asia flagship, which will open in 2022. The Standard is also excited to announce The Standard, Ibiza, also slated to open in 2022. These three new properties will kick off a series of 10 additional landmark projects in highly coveted markets around the world, including: Singapore, Melbourne, Lisbon, Dublin, Brussels and Las Vegas.

“We are incredibly proud to announce the openings of The Standard, Hua Hin, which is set for December, our incredible Asia flagship, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, which will open next year, as well as our second property in Europe, The Standard, Ibiza” said Standard International CEO, Amar Lalvani. “This has been a time of unprecedented crisis for the hospitality industry, and the millions of people around the world who work in the sector. Amidst such challenges, we are incredibly grateful that we continue to be able to delight our guests, serve our communities and create new opportunities for our team members by building landmark hotels around the world.” 

The Standard, Hua Hin, The Standard’s first hotel in Thailand, will open on December 1, 2021. With 178 guest rooms and 21 pool villas with beachfront access, The Standard, Hua Hin will be a timeless destination for the Thai creative set and The Standard’s global network of loyal clientele. A beloved getaway dating back to 1911, Hua Hin emerged as a destination when the construction of the railroad that connects Bangkok with the South first arrived at the pristine little beach town. By the mid-1920s, it became the chosen holiday retreat for the nobility. With time, the sleepy fishing village has transformed into a popular seaside destination without losing its old-world charm. Today, Hua Hin is a favorite weekend escape for residents of Bangkok who have been waiting for exactly what The Standard promises to offer: a stylish and vibrant beachfront resort. One that respects Hua Hin’s understated Thai elegance and appreciation of the history and local setting and combines it with a global sensibility and a bit of fun. 

The Standard, Bangkok Mahankhon will be the Asia flagship for the Standard brand. Opening in 2022, the hotel is already a landmark, housed in the King Power Mahanakhon Building, a 78-story mixed-use building that is one of the tallest in Thailand. Centrally located in the CBD between Sathorn and Silom, the hotel will reflect the dynamic energy of the Thai capital. With 155 rooms, a penthouse, a terrace pool, fitness center, meeting rooms, and a dynamic variety of food, drink and nightlife venues, from The Parlor to the Tea Room and renowned Standard Grill, as well as Thailand’s first outpost of the acclaimed Mott 32 restaurant. The property is designed by Spanish artist-designer Jaime Hayon’s Hayon Studio, in collaboration with The Standard’s award-winning in-house design team, this breath-taking new addition to the Standard portfolio will sit proudly alongside the brand’s award-winning vibrant US and European urban flagships, The Standard, High Line, and Standard, London and in perfect counterpoint to our waterside retreats The Standard, Maldives, The Standard, Miami, and the forthcoming The Standard, Hua Hin and The Standard, Ibiza.

Learn more about our upcoming expansion into Bangkok and Hua Hin, and plan your visit to The Standard, Hua Hin now, with a special opening offer.  Stay tuned for a special offer for The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon via https://www.standardhotels.com/bangkok/properties/bangkok.

About Standard International (The Standard Hotels):

Created in 1999, The Standard hotels are known for their taste-making clientele, their pioneering design, and their unrelenting un-standard-ness. With 7 hotels in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, most recently London and the Maldives, and the upcoming The Standard, Hua Hin, and the Asia flagship, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon slated to open in early 2022, the goal of every Standard project—be it a hotel, a rooftop discothèque, or a magazine—is to defy conventions, up the aesthetic stakes, and deliver an experience that can only be had at The Standard. The Standard’s irreverent and playful sensibility, combined with careful consideration of design, detail, and service, has established its reputation as a pioneer of hospitality, travel, dining, nightlife, and beyond. Sansiri PLC, Thailand’s leading real estate developer made its first investment into Standard International in late November 2017, which increased over time, making Sansiri PLC the majority stakeholder. www.standardhotels.com @thestandard

Visit Maldives | GM Forum ‘21 - Keynotes and Panel Discussions

GM Forum 2021 will feature three keynote speeches, two presentations and three panels’ discussions.

The first keynote will be given by Dr Abdulla Mausoom, Maldives Minister of Tourism, followed by a keynote from the general manager of Sheraton Maldives Fullmoon Resort & Spa, Emilio Fortini, and chairman, Marriott Business Council. The third feature will be done by Najib Khan, CEO of Ooredoo Maldives. 

The two presentations for GM Forum 2021 are ‘Training Needs Analysis of the Tourism Sector, by portrayal of Meery Project, Ministry of Higher Education, Maldives, and ‘Information driven Storytelling,’ by IDeaS Revenue Solutions (Singapore). 

For this year’s Forum, the panel discussions featured will be; ‘Trends in Destination Marketing,’ featuring Thoyyib Waheed, MD, MMPRC / Visit Maldives and Abdulla Ghiyas, Chair, PATA Maldives, and moderated by Sharaz Hafiz, deputy director, digital marketing and social media; Pulse Hotels & Resorts ‘Connectivity in the New Normal’, featuring Mohamed Mihad, MD, Island Aviation Services Limited and Ahmed Maumoon, deputy CEO, Manta Air, and moderated by Ibrahim Saleem Bandhu. The third panelwill be looking at ‘Human Resource Challenges’ which will feature representatives from the Maldives National University and Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT), and will be moderated by Vaibhav Garg, director for talent and culture, Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives.

GM Forum ‘21 will be at Paradise Island Resort scheduled for 23rd September. General managers and corporate hoteliers representing hospitality brands and properties operating in the Maldives are entitled for free delegates passes.

If you are a GM or a corporate hotelier wishing to attend, please register here. 

NEWS | Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre celebrated its 7 Years of True Hospitality

Jaipur, September 2021: Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre celebrated its 7 Years of True Hospitality displaying exemplary services and renowned reputation. The hotel commemorated its exceptional  SEVEN-year presence in the city on September 10, 2021, with the IHG Hotels and Resorts – South  West Asia’s Senior Leadership Team, Mr. Vishvapreet Singh Cheema, Director of Operations – SWA;  Mr. Vinay Jaiswal, Director of Human Resources – SWA; Mr. Nalin Mandiratta, Area General  Manager – SWA & General Manager – Crowne Plaza Jaipur; Mr. Pawan Jain, Area Director Finance  – SWA & Director Finance & Business Support, Crowne Plaza Jaipur and Mr. Sheril Beotra, Area  Director Human Resources – SWA & Director Human Resources, Crowne Plaza Jaipur along with the  General Manager, Mr. Pankaj Gupta – Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre. 

“Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre marked its presence in Jaipur’s hospitality business with the official opening on September 1, 2014. The hotel has been a preferred destination for business as well as leisure travelers; making it an ideal backdrop for guests to conduct business or to sit back and relax.  The hotel’s award-winning restaurants are among the city’s favorites that offer specialty dinings such as the Pan - Asian cuisine at Chao – The Chinese Bistro and Indian Fusion and Continental with artisanal cocktails at Roadhouse Bar & Grill and lastly, an International and Rajasthani Buffet spread at Monarch  – All Day Dining. Over the years, the hotel has been recognized by Times Food and Nightlife,  Booking.com, TripAdvisor and received numerous distinguished accolades. We are thankful to our loyal patrons and travelers for their enormous support. We look forward to extending our “True  Hospitality” for all valued guests and ensure them a memorable anniversary month,” says, Mr. Pankaj  Gupta, General Manager, Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre. 

To make this anniversary an occasion to remember and to give guests and the team members even more reasons to celebrate this milestone, the hotel created a 7 Ft. Long Cake with chocolates and exotic fresh fruits to top it all. A grand welcome for the team was organized with a Rajasthani Folk  Dance performance followed by felicitation of the leadership team with a local ‘Paghadi’ (Turban) and  sweet delicacies. The décor was laid out in the lobby for cake cutting ceremony with the Senior  Leadership and Hotel’s team. An elegant yet contemporary Hi-Tea with a thoughtfully crafted menu presenting healthy treats using superfood ingredients, microgreens, berries, and contemporary  Rajasthani fusion food to set the tone for the celebration for our guests and the IHG Leadership team. 

The hotel’s celebration was also about Giving Back and Giving Thanks to society. As part of the IHG  initiative of “Giving For Good”, the celebration was coupled with an extensive Plantation Drive along with the launch of our Organic farm and Recognition of our key performers and team members that have been a part of our hotel for over 7 years now. The Senior Leadership was also present for the graduating ceremony of our I – Grad team member who completed his Internship under the umbrella of IHG Academy. 

The day culminated with an elaborate and sumptuous feast for the team members along with the  Leadership Team and the team bid fond farewell to guests with personalized memorabilia.

NEWS | Nirvana’s Signature Resorts sells over 100 units in six months

one of India’s leading holiday home development companies, Nirvana Realty, in the past six months has shown a notable improvement in their weekend homes sales with over 100 units from their phase-1 section being sold.

The company claims that these homes are 50 percent EMI-free and can offer up to 90 percent more income from rentals than city homes, which can be of great benefit to the homeowners.

The resorts in Khopoli and Wada, located at easily accessible distances from Mumbai, are themed gated-communities, beautifully designed with several amenities such as swimming pools with underwater speakers, musical gardens and so on.

Since the real estate market is currently in a favorable state for home buyers, it is a good time for buyers to invest. Moreover, the strategically located projects earn customers a rental income of up to 10 percent per annum as compared to 2 percent per annum in the city homes.

“We are overwhelmed by the response,” said Nirvana Realty’s CEO, Punit Agarwal. “We have over 250 units that are already booked. Also, Nirvana has ready-to-move units as well as those under construction. We strive to be the trendsetters in the sector of aspirational home townships, conceptualizing and creating such living spaces and communities that redefine the concept of a life that harmonizes luxury with nature. And it is a great feeling seeing this roll into action,” he added.

An important highlight attracting buyers this season is that these holiday homes come with the advantage of a rental management team that assists the customers to manage their property’s rental income and also provides maintenance and housekeeping services without any additional expense.

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Award | Lily Beach Defends Title of Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resort in the Maldives by Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2021

Lily Beach Defends Title of Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resort in the Maldives by Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2021

Lily Beach Resort & Spa has been crowned yet again by Luxury Lifestyle Awards in 2021 in the category of ‘The Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the Maldives’. The award recognises Lily Beach’s excellent all-inclusive Platinum Plan, its unrivalled friendly service culture, and the property’s overall experience offering something for everyone, whether it be for families or for couples.

Luxury Lifestyle Awards is designed to reward the travel industry elite for excellence in a number of categories. The annual awards programme aims to connect people with the best of luxury. They evaluate more than 10,000 goods and services in 400 categories from 60 countries to give travellers a list of the best of the best in the world.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa is a winner of multiple international awards and recognitions. These accolades are a testament to the resort’s continued commitment to providing an excellent 5-star service to guests. Likewise, this is an encouragement for the Lily Beach team to keep delivering an outstanding experience.

“On behalf of the whole team at Lily Beach Resort & Spa, we would like to wholeheartedly thank our guests for choosing us for their stay in the Maldives and for being fans of our Platinum Plan,” says the resort’s Group Director of Sales & Marketing, Mr. Desislav Gospodinov. 

Located on a private island of Huvahendhoo in South Ari Atoll, Lily Beach Resort & Spa is recognised as a leading 5-star All-Inclusive resort in the Maldives and in the world. The resort features its own unique and elevated concept of unpretentious luxury with its generous all-inclusive plan. The plan includes far more than the traditional package of cocktails, premium brands, champagne, and international culinary delights. It adds value with its complementary activities such as one group yoga session with a Yoga Expert, and up to three excursions, which can be selected from fun options such as sunset cruise, fishing trip, and coral garden snorkelling.

Good Food and Enjoyable Activities are the main pillars of the resort. In terms of dining, Lily Beach continues to reinvent culinary offerings to stay abreast of trends in dining experiences, beverages, and presentations – especially with its renowned buffet restaurant: Lily Maa. Rejuvenating therapies are offered at the resort’s picturesque over-water spa pavilions at Tamara Spa and a bevvy of recreation activities are available at the resort to be active after all that dining. These experiences include weight training and cardio at the gym or having a leisurely game of football or tennis. Additionally, the resort also provides snorkelling equipment and has a beautiful house reef and nearby access to more than 50 awesome dive sites just a stone’s throw away from the resort’s vicinity. All these experiences and more await at the at Lily Beach Resort & Spa, only a short 25-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport.

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New Collaboration | Vivaah at Novotel collaborates with Indian Matchmaker Sima Taparia

Vivaah at Novotel collaborates with Indian Matchmaker Sima Taparia

AT AN EXCLUSIVE RENDEZVOUS FOR ITS ALL MEMBERS THE EVENT CONJURED A DIALOGUE ON THE MODERN ART OF MATCHMAKING, VIRTUAL WEDDINGS IN THE CONTEXT OF INDIA, AND NAVIGATING THROUGH THE PANDEMIC  

Hyderabad 11th September :Weddings are joyful occasions, which mark the beginning of a new chapter, an occasion filled with memories that will be carried for the rest of one's life. However, due to the post - pandemic new normal witnessed by everyone, social gathering and wedding celebrations have witnessed an overhaul. Indian weddings are known for elaborate celebrations and lavish feasts, that have now been minimized as an aftermath of the pandemic to hybrid celebrations. Ms. Sima Taparia the Indian Matchmaker joined Ms. Kerrie Hannaford, Vice President Commercial, Accor India & South Asia to discuss some of this new trend and how the millennial audience is meeting, dating, and making the decision to get married in the New Normal.

Sima Taparia mingled with ALL- Accor Live Limitless members, as well as prominent Telangana & Andhra Pradesh wedding planners and brides -to- be in an intimate evening. Discussions revolved around the importance of matchmaking, the forthcoming wedding season, and selecting the ideal setting for a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. The Guests enjoyed a delectable spread of gourmet delicacies and were left spellbound with the enchanting setup and lovely ambiance.

Sima Taparia said , “It's interesting to see how people across the world have adapted to the effects of the pandemic on weddings, India is no different. Having worked with numerous families over the past year and a half, we have had to work around multiple solutions to ensure everyone's interests and priorities are taken care of. 'Vivaah at Novotel' is a great example of how the new normal weddings can still be as fun, making sure all-important guests are catered to, with the same experience even when they are not able to attend in person."

Kerrie Hannaford, VP, Commercial, Accor India and South Asia said, We are very excited to have Sima Aunty join us at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, speaking to our loyalty members about her experience managing weddings during the pandemic. Having spoken to thousands of millennials, their parents, and their families, Sima is in a unique position and understands the dynamics of marriages across the world. When we launched 'Vivaah at Novotel' last year, we knew it was the solution people were looking for, that fits perfectly with requirements of our reality today. The response so far has been phenomenal and insights from Sima have helped our guests make some critical decisions when it comes to planning weddings as well."

The new normal has witnessed a complete transition towards contact-less food services and micro wedding ceremonies while keeping in mind the present norms of socially distanced gatherings. Keeping up with the need today, we developed ‘Vivaah at Novotel’, a modern-day concept focused on virtual weddings. With ‘Vivaah at Novotel’ our aim is to bring the couple’s dear ones closer to them on their wedding day through a web telecast of the wedding to their relatives and friends present in different cities. The extended family gets a chance to share every moment of the wedding with their loved ones in real-time - the joy of togetherness, the singing, and dancing during the baraat, several rituals, multiple ceremonies, even from miles apart. Two very interesting additions to this concept are ‘Dawaat by Novotel’ and ‘Shagun by Novotel’ for food and gift hampers respectively, which are the two integral parts of any Indian wedding.

Manish Dayya, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre, said “We are extremely delighted to host the most renowned Indian matchmaker Sima Taparia.  The event provided an excellent opportunity to understand and discuss the present-day matchmaking and wedding requirements while looking for intelligent solutions. We are overwhelmed by the positive response we have received for this wonderful evening. With 'Vivaah at Novotel', we have been able to adopt to the new normal by offering Hybrid models to ensure guests can continue to have their dream weddings. We offer the perfect location for wedding celebrations providing multifunctional spaces that allow the most improbable dreams of brides and grooms come true with a personalized flavour added to the mix.”

The property offers a unique opportunity to celebrate this time-honoured sacred relation and ensure that guests indulge in the company of their loved ones and their hearts are charged with magical and memorable moments. The team and staff ensure that one’s vision for their dream day becomes a reality by helping the family through the planning process at every step of the way to ensure their day is exactly the way they envisioned it.  The venue offers the best solutions for a dream wedding right from conception to realization.   

NEWS | Bill Gates' investment firm to take control of Four Seasons in $2.21 bln deal

Bill Gates' Cascade Investment LLC is taking control of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts by buying about half of Saudi Arabian Prince Alwaleed bin Talal's stake for $2.21 billion, the hotel operator said on Wednesday.

Cascade will acquire half of the billionaire prince's stake in Four Seasons, raising its ownership to 71.3% and valuing the hotel chain at $10 billion on an enterprise basis.

Prince Alwaleed, through investment vehicle Kingdom Holding Co (4280.SE), will continue to own the remaining stake, Four Seasons said in a statement.

While the prince owns stakes in many companies such as Citigroup Inc (C.N) and ride-hailing firm Lyft Inc (LYFT.O), his investment firm has been selling its stakes in hotels over the last 10 years

Anantara Hotels | Koh Samui’s Fishermen’s Village Debuts “A.Shore” Beach Bar the Island’s Newest Hot Spot

With the re-opening of Koh Samui to international tourism there is a new place for families and friends on the island to kick back with a drink, trade stories and enjoy the islands natural beauty. A.Shore Beach Bar is a haven where the islands trendsetters can find refuge and relax with a glass of a refreshing beverage and a plate of simple, wholesome food.

Putting a 21st century spin on the idea of a tropical paradise, the rustic looking bar is peppered with Instagram-friendly spots, the furniture and furnishings are made from reclaimed wood, including a boat that before getting a new lease on life as a glamourous beach sofa was a hard-working fishing vessel. Set on a whitewashed deck, swings, beanbags and beach beds create an inviting display against the shimmering backdrop of Bophut’s stunning white sand beach.

NEWS | Leisure Demand Continues to Drive Hyatt's Brand Growth in Europe

Hyatt’s diverse brand portfolio reflects sustained growth, fueled largely by its independent collection and lifestyle brands

CHICAGO (September 7, 2021) – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into six new management and franchise agreements for hotels in Europe across The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, JdV by Hyatt, Hyatt Centric, and Hyatt Regency brands, further emphasizing a growing desire from travelers, World of Hyatt members, and owners for hotels that offer unique, differentiated experiences and foster genuine connections with people and cultures.

Today’s announcement builds on Hyatt’s growth strategy to significantly expand its brand portfolio in Europe by the end of 2023 – the six new executed agreements are expected to increase Hyatt’s brand presence in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland. This is in addition to the recently announced planned acquisition of Apple Leisure Group (ALG), which is expected to expand Hyatt’s European brand footprint by 60 percent.

“The newly executed agreements highlight the positive strides we are making towards our growth strategy in Europe, and the new projects sit alongside a strong pipeline of Hyatt-branded hotels scheduled to open over the coming years,” said Felicity Black-Roberts, Hyatt’s vice president development, Europe. “Confidence in the hospitality sector remains high among investors, and we are delighted to collaborate with leading owners and operators who recognize the value and profitability of Hyatt’s entire brand portfolio, with an emphasis on Hyatt’s independent collections, including The Unbound Collection by Hyatt and JdV by Hyatt brands, and lifestyle brands, including Hyatt Centric. With these new deals, we are asserting our expertise in leisure destinations, reinforcing that Hyatt’s brands continue to resonate and cater to leisure travelers.”

Newly executed deals include:

The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

The Unbound Collection by Hyatt hotel in Crans-Montana, Switzerland

The luxurious boutique hotel Rhodania in the Swiss Alps is expected to join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in 2023. The 41-room hotel is currently located right on the third tee of the famous Severiano Ballesteros golf course, approximately 4,900 feet (1,500 meters) above sea level in one of the most prestigious and well-established year-round mountain destinations in Switzerland. The region is also well known for its wealth of sporting options, including skiing, mountain biking, hiking and golfing; one of the most renowned golf tournaments played on European soil takes place in Crans-Montana each year. The hotel is expected to deliver on the brand’s mission of providing experiences that inspire unforgettable memories for guests seeking elevated yet unscripted service when they travel. Inside the hotel, the rooms and suites will be characterized by their elegant and luxurious décor. The hotel’s food and beverage outlets will offer high-quality local products and regional cuisine at both the main restaurant and the Swiss Chalet, creating unique dining experiences for worldly, independent-minded guests.

New Opening | Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh Cambodia Set to Open for Tourism in November

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh readies to welcome vaccinated visitors in Q4 2021

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sep. 6, 2021) – With Phnom Penh on track to become the most vaccinated city in Southeast Asia, moves are afoot within Cambodia’s tourism industry to work towards a possible reopening of borders for fully vaccinated international travelers by November this year.

The Cambodian tourism ministry recently announced that fully vaccinated international tourists with proof of their inoculation could be allowed into Cambodia as soon as November 2021. To make travel more convenient, Cambodia is also considering lessening or the full removal of the 14-day quarantine policy for fully vaccinated tourists, barring certification showing a negative COVID test 72-hours before travel and another negative COVID test upon arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport.

Cambodia is currently the second most vaccinated country in Southeast Asia after Singapore: the Kingdom has already inoculated over 60% of its 16.5 million people, while over 95% of its residents in the capital Phnom Penh (2.1 million) are already fully vaccinated. The country anticipates it will reach herd immunity with 75 percent of its population double vaccinated by the end of September this year. The Cambodian government has also recently started vaccinating children over the age of 12 starting in August.

In April 2020, Cambodia closed its borders to tourists in a bid to control the spread of COVID-19. Last year, the country recorded zero deaths and less than 400 cases, mostly imported and caught at the border. However, in February this year coronavirus started spreading countrywide, triggering a strict two-month nationwide lockdown. Cambodia emerged from lockdown in June and efforts have been underway since to vaccinate the population through the country’s mass inoculation efforts.

“We’ve been very fortunate in Cambodia to have access to vaccines and I’m pleased to report that 99 percent of our hotel staff are already double vaccinated,” said Herman Kemp, general manager of Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh, which opened in the Cambodian capital in January. “That together with our stringent hygiene measures, makes me confident that we will be prepared for international visitors once travel resumes.”

Kemp added that Cambodia’s successful reopening will be dependent on a fast inoculation rollout and consumer confidence. “If Cambodia continues on the current vaccination trajectory, we will most likely become the first country in Southeast Asia to open to tourists,” he said. “When that happens, I’m looking forward to welcoming international guests to our beautiful property and showing them all that this amazing city has to offer.”

About Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh officially opened in January 2021, marking the first Hyatt hotel in the Cambodian capital. Located in the heart of Phnom Penh’s cultural and business district of Doun Penh, the 247-room property is a 30-minute drive from the airport and within walking distance to the Royal Palace, National Museum and the riverside.

Designed by Singapore-based SCDA Architects, the hotel’s centerpiece is a beautifully restored French heritage villa, known as the Colonial House, which serves as the entrance and lobby. Meanwhile, the interiors of the hotel reflect Cambodia’s unique history, seamlessly blending Khmer architectural accents, French colonial influences, and specially-commissioned artworks by contemporary Cambodian artist, FONKi.

The hotel offers five dining venues including The Attic, an old world speakeasy-style bar that sits tucked away in the eaves of the Colonial House, a stunning indoor/outdoor open-plan dining concept called FiveFive Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, where diners can enjoy Instagram-worthy views of the city skyline alongside sustainable seafood and lively DJ performances, an early 20th century metro-themed bar, Metropole Underground, as well as an all-day dining restaurant, Market Café Restaurant & Lounge, serving breakfast and high tea.

Facilities at Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh include a lush outdoor infinity pool, a 24-hour fitness centre, 1,400 square meters of meeting and event space, including the Regency Ballroom. The hotel also has a world-class spa, Jivapita Spa, offering a range of bespoke body and facial treatments. Guests staying on the hotel’s Club floors have access to the Regency Club Lounge, which includes daily breakfast, evening canapés and drinks, as well as a private terrace.

Cruise News | Holland America Line Announces Spring 2022 Return-to-Service

The ships will join Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam and Zuiderdam, which have returned to service or are slated to restart cruising by December 2021. Volendam and Zaandam will return in May 2022.

"We've been working intensely to get all of our ships back into service, and to have final restart dates that will complete the fleet is rewarding for everyone who has put their all into making this happen," said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. "Our progressive rollout plan allows us to be back in full service over the next several months, and we look forward to welcoming guests on all 11 ships cruising in different regions around the world."

Noordam Plans Return to Service in Japan
Holland America Line is working with Japanese authorities to begin cruising for Noordam next spring in Japan with four sailings scheduled.

When Noordam sets sail in March, the ship plans to offer three 14-day cruises that deeply explore Japan. Sailing roundtrip from Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan, the ship makes several calls around the exotic country and with a one- or two-day visit on each itinerary to South Korea, Taiwan or Russia. The 14-day journeys can be combined to form 28-day Collectors' Voyages.

In April, Noordam will cross the Pacific Ocean and sail a season in Alaska with cruises between Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and Whittier, Alaska.

Oosterdam Returns to the Mediterranean
Guests eager to visit the Med next year can embark Oosterdam beginning with the May 1 departure. The ship will sail the season in the region, cruising between Civitavecchia (Rome) and Venice, Italy; and Barcelona, Spain, and Venice; or roundtrip from Venice on seven- and 12-day itineraries. Oosterdam will explore ports in Italy, Greece, Turkey, Montenegro, Croatia, Albania, France, Malta and Israel.

Following a transatlantic crossing in November 2022, the ship will transit the Panama Canal and take a southerly route to offer a series of South America and Antarctica expeditions ranging from 14 to 22 days between Buenos Aires, Argentina, and San Antonio (Santiago), Chile.

Westerdam Sets Sail for Alaska
When Westerdam returns on May 8, the ship will embark on a season of seven-day Alaska cruises roundtrip from Seattle, Washington. Come September, the ship will cross the Pacific Ocean and begin a season in the Far East offering a variety of 14-day itineraries from Singapore; Hong Kong, China; and Yokohama (Tokyo).

Guests on January to May 2022 Cruises Will Move to 2023
With these restart dates for Noordam, Oosterdam and Westerdam, cruises in Asia, Australia and New Zealand, and South America and Antarctica from January 2022 through the return-to-service departures will be cancelled.

Guests on Westerdam's cancelled transatlantic crossing departing April 18, 2022, will be moved to a comparable crossing on Nieuw Statendam departing April 17.

Guests on Noordam's affected Asia departures in 2022 will be moved to the same itinerary in 2023 aboard Westerdam; guests on Oosterdam's cancelled Australia and New Zealand voyages will be moved to the same itinerary in 2023 aboard Noordam; and guests on Westerdam's cancelled South America and Antarctica Voyages will be moved to the same itinerary aboard Oosterdam in 2023. Guests also may choose to receive a 100% refund of monies paid to Holland America Line.

The above options are not applicable to guests booked on a charter sailing. Other booking and cancellation conditions and policies may apply if the cruise was not booked through Holland America Line. 

For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com.

Find Holland America Line on Twitter, Facebook and the Holland America Blog.  Access all social media outlets via the home page at hollandamerica.com.

About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE:  CCL and CUK)]
Holland America Line has been exploring the world since 1873 and was the first cruise line to offer adventures to Alaska and the Yukon nearly 75 years ago. Its fleet of premium ships visits nearly 400 ports in 114 countries around the world, offering an ideal mid-sized ship experience. A third Pinnacle-class ship, Rotterdam, joined the fleet in July 2021.

The leader in premium cruising, Holland America Line's ships feature innovative initiatives and a diverse range of enriching experiences focused on destination exploration and personalized travel. The best live music at sea fills each evening at Music Walk, and dining venues feature exclusive selections from Holland America Line's esteemed Culinary Council of world-famous chefs.

In light of COVID-19, Holland America Line is currently enhancing health and safety protocols and how they may impact future cruises. Our actual offerings may vary from what is displayed or described in marketing materials. Review our current Cruise Updates, Health & Safety Protocols and CDC Travel Advisories.

NEWS | Indonesia added to Abu Dhabi Green List

There are more than 50 countries that do not require quarantine upon arrival in the UAE capital

Less than a week after adding 22 countries to its Green List for travel, Abu Dhabi authorities have announced another revision.

The new Green List now includes Indonesia, with more than 50 countries now offering quarantine-free arrival into the UAE capital.

Travellers will be required to present a negative PCR Covid-19 test valid for a maximum of 48 hours before departure and undergo a PCR test upon arrival at Abu Dhabi International Airport. Vaccinated passengers from the updated green list will take another PCR test on day six (day of arrival counts as day one). Unvaccinated travellers arriving from green list countries will also take a PCR test on days six and nine.

NEWS | Uttarakhand:Bad weather gets hotel industry down

Similar concerns were echoed by those in the tourism industry in places like Munsyari, Uttarkashi, Kausani, Khirsu and Lansdowne.

Owners of several hotels, homestays and trekking agencies in Uttarakhand, who were already reeling under heavy economic losses due to the Covid-19 pandemic, say that bad weather conditions, frequent landslides and panic among people due to such occurrences over the last few weeks, have dealt a body blow to the tourism sector in Uttarakhand, leading to many tourism ventures being on the verge of closure.

Speaking to TOI, Pramod Kumar, a hotel owner in Mukteshwar near Nainital, said that tourist numbers in hill stations were “very good till the first week of August but since then, numerous landslides in and around Nainital have scared away people.” “We have only seen cancellations since the past few weeks. The situation was expected to improve this week but now, schools in Delhi-NCR have opened up and not many families are willing to travel,” Kumar said.

Munesh Bhatt, owner of a homestay in Joshimath in the Garhwal hills, who organises treks to the Valley of Flowers and other spots, alleged that for several weeks now, he has not received a single query from tourists. “Monsoons are anyway lean season for us but people do come to visit the Valley of Flowers in August since it is the blooming period for most of the flowers. However, visuals of landslides on Char Dham Yatra routes have scared tourists and even we tell them not to travel if there is forecast of rain,” he added.

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News | Covid-19 test must for hotel, restaurant staffers in Mangaluru

The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has made tests for Covid-19 mandatory for all staff in hotels and restaurants in the city.

The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has made tests for Covid-19 mandatory for all staff in hotels and restaurants in the city.

MCC commissioner Akshy Sridhar said a decision to make RT-PCR tests mandatory for staffers in hotels and restaurants was taken following a surge in Covid-19 cases across the city.

“It will be mandatory for the staff of hotels and restaurants in MCC limits to undergo Coivd-19 test. For public convenience, all the Urban Public Healthcare Centers have been conducting Covid tests in the evening. The general public, including staff of hotels and restaurants are hereby requested to make optimum use of the Covid testing facilities,” the commissioner said.

Visit Maldives | 140,000 Arrivals in August – Most Number of Arrivals Recorded in a Month of 2021

Maldives Welcomes Over 140,000 Arrivals in August – Most Number of Arrivals Recorded in a Month of 2021

According to August 2021 statistics published by the Maldives Immigration, the country has recorded 143,599 tourist arrivals for the month, which surpasses the number of tourists recorded in the same month of 2019 and 2020. The Maldives further recorded the greatest number of tourists in August out of the past months in 2021.   

Maintaining its first rank as a top market to the Maldives, 54,094 tourists from India visited the country in August. In the second place, Russia recorded 17,069 arrivals. Germany stands in third place followed by the US, Ukraine in the top 5 markets to the Maldives.  

With direct flight connectivity between Russia and Maldives through Aeroflot and ease of travel guidelines to the Maldives, the Russian market plays a significant role in achieving pre-pandemic arrival figures, says the Visit Maldives team.  

Tourism-related authorities in the Maldives along with industry stakeholders currently aim to make Maldives’ tourism sector one of the first to emerge as fully vaccinated, building guest confidence in the safe haven.   

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NEWS | Andaman & Nicobar Islands' Tourism & Hospitality industry requests to increase the flight frequency at Port Blair

Prior to the pandemic, Andaman & Nicobar Islands had twenty-two operational flights per day which now has been restricted to less than four flights a day

India's apex Hospitality Association - Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has submitted a representation to the Additional Secretary (UT), Ministry of Home Affairs - Shri Govind Mohan requesting removal of the restriction imposed on the number of incoming flights at Port Blair to allow at least ten flights a day. Tourism is the backbone of the Islands’ economy and has come to a complete standstill since the lockdown was imposed earlier last year due to the COVID19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, Andaman & Nicobar Islands had twenty-two operational flights per day which now has been restricted to less than four flights a day. Airfares have skyrocketed, tickets cancellations are through the roof and the islanders are boxed in.

“The travel and tourism industry in the UT of Andaman & Nicobar are facing massive hardships due to the restriction of flights to the Island. There has been no tourism activity since the last eighteen months and the economy of the UT is in dire straits. Limiting flights is disrupting not just the industry but life on the island. Ironically, no such restriction applies on flights anywhere else across India. To recover from the damage is going to require a massive amount of effort and time and removing the current restriction on the number of incoming flights to allow at least ten flights a day will be a good start. This will still be less than 50 percent of flights in operation at Port Blair compared to the pre-pandemic levels,” says Mr Gurbaxish Singh Kohli, Vice President, FHRAI.

The FHRAI has pointed out that between October 2021 and March 2022 flight movement on Port Blair will be restricted to before 2pm only on account of re-carpeting of the runway. This would mean that Port Blair Airport will not be able to operate at full capacity even during the peak tourist season.

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New Launch | Oakwood Premier Prestige Bangalore launches the first-ever mobile bar in India

Oakwood Premier Mobile Bar redefines the traditional hotel club lounge concept and sets a new benchmark for bespoke guest experiences.

This September, India is set to witness the launch of a unique concept, the first ever Oakwood Premier Mobile Bar.

A first of its kind, the Oakwood Premier Mobile Bar redefines the traditional hotel club lounge concept and sets a new benchmark for bespoke guest experiences. Unveiled across all Oakwood Premier-branded luxury serviced residences, the Oakwood Premier Mobile Bar has been launched in select cities across Asia Pacific like Tokyo, Singapore, Jakarta and Hangzhou just to name a few. Bangalore will be the first city in India chosen to introduce the concept.

Designed as an ultra-luxe offer, the mobile bar will serve up popular handcrafted cocktails, house pours and a menu of signature canapés available on rotation. This on-request service will be available every evening at an hourly price of INR 2,500 in rooms for guests to enjoy their beverages and nibbles in the safety of their personal sanctuary with friends.

This idea was seeded with the thought of providing guests with the offerings of a club lounge in the safety of their rooms and apartments. A bartender will be available to make on-demand, bespoke cocktails for guests as they enjoy the mobile bar experience.

Speaking on the launch of the Oakwood Premier Mobile Bar at Oakwood Premier Prestige Bangalore, General Manager Mr. Wajeed Bagwan said, “We are very excited to roll out the mobile bar as an option to our current and future guests. Many young couples are booking rooms together for a weekend getaway and we know they would welcome a proposition like this. This gives them the chance to enjoy their dine-out experience in a private sanctuary helmed by a personal bartender.”

NEWS | Goa govt nod for CM to chair tourism board

The tourism minister meanwhile, will serve as the vice-chairperson.

The government has accepted a proposal by the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) to have the chief minister head the tourism board instead of the tourism minister. A notification pertaining to the constitution of the board is likely to be issued shortly, a government official said.

The tourism minister meanwhile, will serve as the vice-chairperson.

TTAG had earlier opposed the Goa Tourism Policy 2020 proposition to name the tourism minister as the chairperson of the board. It has been conveyed to the government that naming the chief minister of the state as chairperson would help obtain speedy approvals for bigger projects requiring authorization from departments that are not in the domain of the tourism minister.

Constitution of the tourism board will be crucial for the implementation of the tourism master plan, a vision document that’s aimed at the development of the state’s tourism sector.

An official said that once the board is constituted, it will take crucial decisions regarding marketing and promotions as well as choosing projects for the hospitality sector, with the tourism master plan serving as the basis.

The master plan has broadly outlined that the destination has to diversify its interests by presenting cultural, heritage, eco-tourism, nature, coastal and other attractions, and not merely focus on coastal tourism.

The official said that while another side of Goa is being presented to tourists, efforts are piecemeal. Promoting nature, eco-tourism, for instance, will not progress full steam unless a proper ecosystem is created, he said. “The concept of homestays is yet to be established here. If facilities are made available, I’m sure tourists will grab the opportunity to explore the villages.”

Cruise News | Carnival Cruise Line Announces Next Round Of Restart Plans

Carnival Cruise Line Announces Next Round Of Restart Plans

Protocols for Vaccinations, Testing & Masks to Remain in Place Through End of Year

MIAMI, Sept. 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- With eight of its ships already in guest operations, and more restarting in September and October, Carnival Cruise Line today announced the next round of details about additional ship restarts for November 2021 and beyond.

• Carnival Valor will follow Carnival Glory in New Orleans with four- and five-night sailings starting on Nov. 1;

• Carnival Legend will restart Nov. 14 out of Baltimore, replacing Carnival Pride, which restarts guest operations from Baltimore Sept. 12 and then moves its homeport to Tampa following a Panama Canal repositioning cruise;

• Carnival Radiance will have a new maiden voyage date of Dec. 13 out of Long Beach (rescheduled from Nov. 5 due to a revised dry dock transformation plan);

• Carnival Pride's new service from Tampa is scheduled to start on Nov. 14;

• Carnival Conquest's restart from Miami on Oct. 8 has been rescheduled to Dec. 13;

• Carnival Sensation's Oct. 21 restart from Mobile has been moved to Jan. 2022.

"We are very pleased with the progress of our restart which will grow to 15 ships sailing from seven U.S. homeports by mid-November," said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.  "We are making slight adjustments to our timeline to take into account supply chain realities and ensure that our destination and shore excursion offerings can meet the strong demand we are seeing from our guests. Our teams, ship, and shore, are prepared to continue delivering on our great guest experience and manage all health and safety protocols."

Carnival is also advising guests booked in November and December that it will continue to meet the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention's (CDC) standard of vaccinated cruises and that guests will need to present proof of both vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test at check-in (with a small number of capacity-restricted exemptions granted for children under 12 and other guests who cannot be vaccinated).  Carnival is working to set up mobile pre-cruise rapid testing sites at all of its homeports as a backup alternative for vaccinated guests who aren't able to make arrangements (details forthcoming).  In addition, guests will be asked to wear masks in most indoor venues of the ship where people congregate.  Full details are available at the Have Fun. Be Safe. page on Carnival.com.

With the extension of Carnival Sensation's restart, five ships operating out of U.S. homeports will be moved to 2022:  Carnival Liberty (Port Canaveral), Carnival Sunshine (Charleston), Carnival Paradise (Tampa); Carnival Ecstasy (Jacksonville), and Carnival Sensation (Mobile).

Separate from its U.S. operations, Carnival has canceled four additional sailings for both Carnival Spirit and Carnival Splendor out of Australia.  Cruises on both ships are now canceled up to and including Dec. 16, 2021.

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 resumed cruise operations July 3, 2021, while its newest and most innovative ship, Mardi Gras, featuring the first roller coaster at sea and the first in the Americas and is powered by eco-friendly Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) debuted from Port Canaveral, Fla., 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, along with an as-yet-unnamed ship slated to enter service in 2023.

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