Visit Maldives | Julien Royer’s Three Michelin-starred Odette Arrives at Soneva Fushi

Julien Royer’s Three Michelin-starred Odette Arrives at Soneva Fushi

Singapore’s famed three Michelin-starred restaurants Odette has arrived at Soneva Fushi for an exclusive 10-week residency at Flying Sauces. Reflecting the Odette experience, Julien Royer’s evolving multi-course menu showcases produce at its seasonal peak with an emphasis on native ingredients. 

Across 10 weeks, Odette’s Singaporean Chef de Cuisine, Naka Xiong, will bring his reverence for nature and affinity with seafood to realize a gastronomic experience infused with vibrant tropical flavors and an ingenious Southeast Asian identity, befitting Soneva Fushi’s idyllic island setting. 

“It is Odette’s greatest pleasure to share our experience with our friends at Soneva. We’re delighted to take the heart of Maldives’ terroir to greater heights, with the show-stopping creativity of our Chef de Cuisine, Xiong,” said Julien Royer, Chef-Owner of Odette 

“This menu showcases the nostalgic Southeast Asian flavors that I’m familiar with. Surrounded by fresh produce from Maldivian waters and cooking among the lush treetops of Soneva is a dream come true for me,” said Naka Xiong Chef de Cuisine, Odette 

Taking fine dining to exhilarating new heights 

Flying Sauces is the world’s first fine dining zipline experience. Glide along the 200-metre zipline route through the leafy jungle to the island's treetop table and open kitchen – at 12 metres above the ground, it has exceptional views across the sparkling ocean. The menu is expertly paired with a selection of wines from its extensive cellars, which house the largest collection of wines and Champagnes in the Indian Ocean. During the 10-week Odette residency, Flying Sauces will be serving its usual breakfast menu, while the Flying Sauces Featuring Odette’s Julien Royer menu will be served for dinner. 

An experience to remember… 

The Flying Sauces zipline takes a scenic route through the forest at a height of 5 to 10 metres – with towering platforms and rope bridges along the way, it ends at an elevated dining tower, raised 12 metres above the ground with exceptional views over the ocean. Operating during daylight hours only, the zipline takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes; the Flying Sauces dining experiences take an additional 1 hour for breakfast and high tea, and 2 to 3 hours for dinner. Each Flying Sauces experience is suitable for a maximum 10 to 12 guests aged 8 and above, divided into 2 groups of 6 guests. 

Celebrate the Chinese New Year with variety of Mooncakes at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre

Celebrate the Chinese New Year with variety of Mooncakes at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre  

Hyderabad: February 2022: Celebrate the auspicious lunar New Year with our classic flavours of mooncakes selected from premium ingredients and created by specialty chefs… Moon cake symbolizes family reunions and is a must during festival seasons. This dessert is given to people while greeting them and is considered to bring good luck.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, said, “We are happy to announce the MOONCAKE FESTIVAL at Le Cafe’ to celebrate the New Year. Lunar New Year is the most important festival as it it symbolizes a time for families to sit together, share their blessings, and also celebrate the new beginning. Mooncake is a dessert that is essentially served with tea or coffee while family greets each other during the festival period. 2022 is the year of the Tiger which symbolizes a year of power, confidence, and strengths and will bring in good luck and fortune for everyone. We are sure that the specially curated moon cakes will bring in a lot of happiness and joy to your family and loved ones’ 

NHCC has created 5 flavourful varieties for you to choose from White Lotus Seed, Black Sesame, Fruit & Nuts, Durian, and Custard while each flavour has its meaning for your beloved one.    The Mooncakes are available from 1st -28th February 2022 at LeCafe Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre

Appointment | Binayak Tamang appointed executive chef at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center

He will extensively plan the menu, buffets, executing policies, procedures and maintaining quality

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center has recently appointed Binayak Tamang as the Executive Chef. He has over 17 years of experience in the culinary industry.

Chef Tamang will bring his expertise in F&B and culinary operations to his new role and introduce new trends. He has extensive knowledge of Italian, French and Asian cuisines, which can be witnessed in his creative recipes.

Over the years, Chef Tamang has developed his own standard of cuisine with deep commitment to hospitality. From customizing and catering every palate, to understanding the nitty-gritties of various techniques, he expresses his love for food by playing with ingredients from around the world. He excels in the culinary domain and would be responsible for spearheading restaurant operations, kitchen management, banquet event operations and ensuring high quality services to achieve customer satisfaction. He will extensively plan the menu, buffets, executing policies, procedures and maintaining quality.

Chef Tamang holds a bachelor degree in hotel management and has graduated from IHM Bhubaneswar. His last assignment was at The Leela Palace Chennai.

Prior to The Leela Hotels and Resorts, he worked as a chef de cuisine for the signature gourmet award-winning restaurant; Dolce Vita and Italian fine dine restaurant; Melt café at the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore. In his previous roles, he has worked at Taj Lands End Mumbai, The Oberoi New Delhi and The Oberoi Rajvilas Jaipur.

Hyatt Announces Plans for Two New UK Hotels with Hyatt Regency London Stratford and Hyatt House London Stratford

Hyatt Announces Plans for Two New UK Hotels with Hyatt Regency London Stratford and Hyatt House London Stratford

The announcement signals Hyatt’s continued brand growth in the UK

CHICAGO (January 2022) Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into management agreements with Stratford City Hotels Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of M&L Hospitality, for Hyatt Regency London Stratford and Hyatt House London Stratford. The 225-room Hyatt Regency London Stratford and the 127-room Hyatt House London Stratford are expected to open in Q2 2022 following an extensive refurbishment. Both hotels will be conveniently located within one of Europe’s largest urban shopping and entertainment complexes, Westfield Stratford City, and a short walk to Stratford Station and Queen Elizabeth Park.

“The addition of these two hotels will be another exciting step in growing Hyatt’s brand presence in the United Kingdom and in creating a network of hotels across the key commercial and leisure markets in the country,” said Felicity Black Roberts, vice president of development Europe, Hyatt. “We worked closely with M&L Hospitality to choose the right brands for the location and are pleased to be continuing our relationship with them following the successful openings of Hyatt Regency Manchester and Hyatt House Manchester in 2019.”

Designed with productivity in mind, Hyatt Regency London Stratford will offer business and leisure travelers alike a stress-free and seamless environment to stay connected. Guests can enjoy 6,673 square feet (628 square meters) of meeting space, along with a spacious restaurant, bar and an open-air terrace. Hyatt House London Stratford will provide guests with modern, apartment-style suites with fully equipped kitchens and flexible workspaces, designed to make them feel at home, especially during extended stays.

The hotels are located close to Stratford Station, one of the UK’s busiest train stations, giving guests swift access to Central London in only seven minutes. Stratford International Station connects guests to St Pancras International Station and transfers to the Eurostar train, which provides services to Paris, Brussels, Rotterdam and Amsterdam.

The properties will also be easily accessible to Heathrow International Airport via the new Queen Elizabeth Crossrail line due to open mid 2022, which will offer services to Stratford in approximately 45 minutes. Furthermore, London City Airport is only 20 minutes from Stratford on the Docklands Light Railway, making it an ideal location for business and leisure guests.

Guests can enjoy easy access to local events at the nearby O2 and ExCel London convention center, home to many concerts, exhibitions, and corporate events. The burgeoning Stratford City is also fast becoming the most exciting cultural region in the UK with major new developments at Queen Elizabeth Park (home to London Stadium, London Aquatics Centre, Lee Valley Velopark and more) currently underway including the proposed new future home of BBC studios, along with the exciting new museum project, V&A East. Further, nearby universities include the new world-class East campus of the University College of London and the new College of Fashion.

“We are pleased to be able to continue our work with Hyatt in the United Kingdom,” said Neil Maxwell, chief executive officer of M&L Hospitality. “Our strategy focuses on identifying key gateway cities with strong economic growth. Stratford is experiencing a real boom and our plans to introduce these Hyatt House and Hyatt Regency hotels to London will capitalize on this.”

The announcement of Hyatt Regency London Stratford and Hyatt House London Stratford marks Hyatt’s continued growth in the UK market. The hotels will join M&L Hospitality’s existing Hyatt properties including Hyatt Regency Manchester and Hyatt House Manchester, Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport. Other Hyatt properties in the UK include Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, Hyatt Regency Birmingham, Great Scotland Yard Hotel, Andaz London Liverpool Street,  Hyatt Place West London Hayes, Hyatt Centric Cambridge and Hyatt Place London City East.

For more information about Hyatt Regency hotels, please visit:

https://www.hyatt.com/brands/hyatt-regency

Qatar Tourism announces new superyacht luxury cruises to set sail from Qatar

Qatar Tourism announces new superyacht luxury cruises to set sail from Qatar

• Emerald Azzurra to launch in January 2023 with seven-night cruises from Doha

• Extensive tourism development is underway in Qatar as the country prepares to host the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM

• A new Grand Cruise Terminal also under construction in Qatar will host two mega-ships at one time and have an aquarium and art gallery 

 February 2021: Qatar Tourism has announced new superyacht luxury cruises in partnership with Emerald Cruises, sailing from Doha launching in January 2023. 

Emerald Azzurra will offer seven-night, eight-day itineraries from Doha, with stops at Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; Khasab, Oman; Fujairah, UAE; Zighy Bay, Oman; and Dubai and vice versa. 

Pre and post-cruise tours are available where guests can opt for a three-day package to explore the sites and culture of Qatar. Highlights include the National Museum of Qatar, designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, in the style of a desert rose; or a visit to Souq Waqif, to purchase local souvenirs and spices. Visitors can take a trip into the desert and visit the Inland Sea, before enjoying dune bashing and a camel ride.

The news comes as construction continues on the new Grand Cruise Terminal located in central Doha, near the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif. The terminal will have the capacity to host two megaships and will offer various attractions, including an aquarium and art gallery. 

Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism, Berthold Trenkel, said: “In line with the national strategy, Qatar National Vision 2030, we are expanding our tourism value proposition and are excited to welcome travellers from around the world to experience the best of Qatari hospitality both on sea and land. The new itineraries launching with Emerald Cruises are another step towards achieving this vision.

“Qatar has an incredible range of hotels, restaurants, activities and cultural landmarks which can be enjoyed pre and post the cruise, allowing guests the freedom to explore Qatar at their leisure. We welcome travellers from around the world to experience our beautiful country and the best of the Middle East, all in one easily accessible place.” 

Rob Voss, COO, Scenic Group, which includes Emerald Cruises, comments: “We are delighted to be taking our new superyacht, Emerald Azzurra to Qatar’s vibrant city of Doha next winter. In partnership with Qatar Tourism our guests will experience first-hand and in luxury yachting style the immersive beauty and hospitality The Gulf region and specifically Qatar has to offer. It will be magical.”    

The superyacht, Emerald Azzurra, can accommodate 100 guests, at an impressive 110 metres in length. Guests can enjoy a Sky Bar, observation deck and lounge, wellness area, an infinity pool and marina platform which hosts several marina toys including sea bobs and paddleboards. 

For more information on Qatar and details om how to plan your stay, please visit https://www.visitqatar.qa/en/plan-your-trip/travel-tips. For more information on the cruise programmes, visit: https://www.emeraldcruises.co.uk/Qatar 

FSSAI releases amendment regulations for salts and other consumables

The constant improvement in the regulation allows opening ways to improve the diet of every citizen.

The food authority has drafted an amendment concerning the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) regulation regarding salt and wheat flour (wheat flour), papad, and millet.

The regulation describes the low sodium salt content and mentions it to be crystalline solid material with reduced sodium content extracted via evaporation of natural brines. The sodium chloride is recommended to replace with potassium chloride and the moisture to be maintained should not exceed 1%, while sodium chloride weight (dry basis) should be 60-75%. The parameter for refined iodized salt are 1% moisture, 98% sodium chloride, and alkalinity should be maximum 0.15% and pH range described is 6.0-7.5. Besides the draft describes the Wheat Flour. The wheat flour product means the end product obtained by milling or grinding clean wheat.

The definition of Resultant Wheatflour differs as the product obtained by blending different fractions in roller mills after separating maida and semolina during the processing procedure. These products are recommended to adhere to the parameters including the moisture content not exceeding 13.0% by mass, Glutennot less than 7% dry mass, crude fiber not less than 25%, and 98% granularity by mass.

The draft suggested all the millets to categorize under one heading-23 Millet of the regulation. The standards described apply to dehulled and whole millets. As per FSSAI, papad and papadum are derived from millet flour, a blend of cereal flour, fruits and vegetables, edible vegetable oils, spices, processed soy flour, and pulse flour. The papad should be labelled with the major ingredients used. The label should prefix the name of the ingredient used before “papad”. Under this parameter, the moisture should not exceed 11%, 0.2% alcoholic acidity accompanied by alcohol expressed as H2S04

The basics consumed on daily basis should be provided as per the standards mentioned by FSSAI. Those regular household consumption allow the consumers access enough nutrition. People can access the wholesome nutritional food fulfilling the requirement of the nutrition on daily basis.

Fortification is one of the steps implemented to ensure the consumption that fulfills the requirement. Those steps are initiated to avoid deficiency. The constant improvement in the regulation allows to open ways to improve the diet of every citizen. Also, when it comes to labelling, it’s a right of a common man to know the ingredients used in a product. People might be allergic to some ingredient or might be refraining to use those ingredients and labelling is best for the consumer awareness

Shanghai Club’ at ITC Grand Central celebrates Lunar New Year ~ The Year of Tiger

Shanghai Club’ at ITC Grand Central celebrates Lunar New Year ~ The Year of Tiger

A perfect family getaway with authentic and delectable Chinese cuisine accompanied by your choice of beverage

We cordially invite you to a lavish feast laid out by the Master Chefs of Shanghai Club for the family with refreshing beverages throughout the week and until the Valentine’s Day, to celebrate the season of love.

Indulge in tempting and subtle flavours right from the starters to the main course to the desserts. Choose from a variety of options from a generous menu. Each dish cooked in the kitchen, attempts to capture the essence of the original recipe. The restaurant offers scrumptious platters / meals.

An enchanting ambience coupled with a rich culinary experience will entice the guests to visit the restaurant over and over to unravel its gastronomic mysteries. Indulge in a leisurely and pocket-friendly authentic Chinese meal experience with tit-bits of conversation as your side-dish.

Timings:  Lunch: 12:30 – 14: 45 hrs

For Reservations contact: Restaurant Manager on 022-67045110/ 022-67045109

Hyatt Announces Plans for Two New UK Hotels with Hyatt Regency London Stratford and Hyatt House London Stratford

Hyatt Announces Plans for Two New UK Hotels with Hyatt Regency London Stratford and Hyatt House London Stratford

The announcement signals Hyatt’s continued brand growth in the UK

CHICAGO (Feb, 2022) Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into management agreements with Stratford City Hotels Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of M&L Hospitality, for Hyatt Regency London Stratford and Hyatt House London Stratford. The 225-room Hyatt Regency London Stratford and the 127-room Hyatt House London Stratford are expected to open in Q2 2022 following an extensive refurbishment. Both hotels will be conveniently located within one of Europe’s largest urban shopping and entertainment complexes, Westfield Stratford City, and a short walk to Stratford Station and Queen Elizabeth Park.

“The addition of these two hotels will be another exciting step in growing Hyatt’s brand presence in the United Kingdom and in creating a network of hotels across the key commercial and leisure markets in the country,” said Felicity Black Roberts, vice president of development Europe, Hyatt. “We worked closely with M&L Hospitality to choose the right brands for the location and are pleased to be continuing our relationship with them following the successful openings of Hyatt Regency Manchester and Hyatt House Manchester in 2019.”

Designed with productivity in mind, Hyatt Regency London Stratford will offer business and leisure travelers alike a stress-free and seamless environment to stay connected. Guests can enjoy 6,673 square feet (628 square meters) of meeting space, along with a spacious restaurant, bar and an open-air terrace. Hyatt House London Stratford will provide guests with modern, apartment-style suites with fully equipped kitchens and flexible workspaces, designed to make them feel at home, especially during extended stays.

The hotels are located close to Stratford Station, one of the UK’s busiest train stations, giving guests swift access to Central London in only seven minutes. Stratford International Station connects guests to St Pancras International Station and transfers to the Eurostar train, which provides services to Paris, Brussels, Rotterdam and Amsterdam.

The properties will also be easily accessible to Heathrow International Airport via the new Queen Elizabeth Crossrail line due to open mid 2022, which will offer services to Stratford in approximately 45 minutes. Furthermore, London City Airport is only 20 minutes from Stratford on the Docklands Light Railway, making it an ideal location for business and leisure guests.

Guests can enjoy easy access to local events at the nearby O2 and ExCel London convention center, home to many concerts, exhibitions, and corporate events. The burgeoning Stratford City is also fast becoming the most exciting cultural region in the UK with major new developments at Queen Elizabeth Park (home to London Stadium, London Aquatics Centre, Lee Valley Velopark and more) currently underway including the proposed new future home of BBC studios, along with the exciting new museum project, V&A East. Further, nearby universities include the new world-class East campus of the University College of London and the new College of Fashion.

“We are pleased to be able to continue our work with Hyatt in the United Kingdom,” said Neil Maxwell, chief executive officer of M&L Hospitality. “Our strategy focuses on identifying key gateway cities with strong economic growth. Stratford is experiencing a real boom and our plans to introduce these Hyatt House and Hyatt Regency hotels to London will capitalize on this.”

The announcement of Hyatt Regency London Stratford and Hyatt House London Stratford marks Hyatt’s continued growth in the UK market. The hotels will join M&L Hospitality’s existing Hyatt properties including Hyatt Regency Manchester and Hyatt House Manchester, Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport. Other Hyatt properties in the UK include Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, Hyatt Regency Birmingham, Great Scotland Yard Hotel, Andaz London Liverpool Street,  Hyatt Place West London Hayes, Hyatt Centric Cambridge and Hyatt Place London City East.

For more information about Hyatt Regency hotels, please visit:

https://www.hyatt.com/brands/hyatt-regency

For more information about Hyatt House hotels, please visit:

https://www.hyatt.com/brands/hyatt-house

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

For further information:

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation 

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of September 30, 2021, Hyatt’s portfolio included more than 1,000 hotel and all-inclusive properties in 69 countries across six continents, and the acquisition of Apple Leisure Group added 96 properties in 10 countries as of November 1, 2021. Hyatt’s offerings include the Park Hyatt®, Miraval®, Grand Hyatt®, Alila®, Andaz®, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®, Destination by Hyatt™, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt®, Hyatt Ziva™, Hyatt Zilara™, Thompson Hotels®, Hyatt Centric®, Caption by Hyatt, JdV by Hyatt™, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Place®, UrCove, and Hyatt Residence Club® brands, as well as resort and hotel brands under the AMR™ Collection, including Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Breathless® Resorts & Spas, Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Alua® Hotels & Resorts, and Sunscape® Resorts & Spas. Hyatt’s subsidiaries operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar DMC destination management services, and the Trisept Solutions® travel technology platform. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.

About M&L Hospitality

M&L Hospitality is a Singapore-based real estate investment platform with an international portfolio of best-in-class hotels. Since 2009 M&L Hospitality’s portfolio has grown to 20 hotel properties across the Asia-Pacific, UK and European regions. Its hotels are in prime, central locations in international gateway cities. They are operated by the most recognisable international brands, including Accor, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG and Radisson Hotel Group.

Industry People | Introducing Varun Behl, co-founder and Managing Director of Kebabs and Curries

Varun Behl, co-founder and Managing Director, Kebabs and Curries Company (KCCO India Pvt Ltd) elected as a ‘Fellow of IIHM’ and a member of ‘IIHM International College of Distinguished Fellows’.

The food and beverage and hospitality industries have displayed unparalleled strength and resilience past two years, swiftly adjusting their sails to the new business winds and incorporating changes, methods and new mindsets to keep the business rolling. Saluting this indefatigable spirit of entrepreneurship, hope, knowledge, and learning, the IIHM (International Institute of Hotel Management) International College of Distinguished Fellows conferred the Fellow of IIHM to 60 global hospitality leaders. 

Varun Behl, co-founder and Managing Director of Kebabs and Curries has conferred the fellowship, in a stunning virtual event, presided by Suborno Bose, CEO, International Institute of Hotel Management and CEO, International Hospitality Council and Prof. David Foskett, MBE, Chairman – International Hospitality Council, London. 

Varun Behl, a second-generation entrepreneur, hung up his corporate reins at Marriott International before returning to his roots in Jaipur, Rajasthan to modernize and scale-up Kebabs and Curries Company, his family-owned and operated restaurant brand. 

In a span of seven years, Varun Behl has scaled up operations to 15 outlets and 6 brands in various cities of Rajasthan and added a mobile app to the brand, which today has over 16,000 active users and is a great brand engagement tool. Varun Behl’s initiatives for the company in the near future include an interactive catering studio and bringing new technological advancements in food and beverage operations and customer service. 

About his association with IIHM and the prestigious recognition, Varun Behl said “As a former hospitality professional and today as a restaurateur, I am privy to the challenges and opportunities these industries present. I look forward to mentoring young minds along with IIHM, to build the future leaders of these industries”. 

Other distinguished luminaries include (to name a few) Camellia Panjabi, Group Director, Masala World UK; Vita Whitaker, CEO, and Commercial Director, Whitco C&BE Ltd; Chef Lepinoy Sebastien (3-star Michelin Star Chef), Les Amis Singapore; Manjunath Mural (Michelin Star Chef), Chef-Partner, Adda- Singapore; Chef Manjit S Gill, President IPCA, among many.

A homegrown brand, Kebabs & Curries Company (KCCO) has been creating unforgettable dining experiences for 18 years. This Jaipur based culinary brand has a chain of restaurants and QSR (Quick Service Restaurants) in prime locations (Raja Park, Chitrakoot (Vaishali Nagar), Jagatpura, Sitapura, World Trade Park Mall, Banipark, Hawa Mahal (Pink City), So Hi B2 Bypass, Elements Mall (DCM Ajmer Road) and VT Road Mansarovar, Kota (Rajiv Gandhi Nagar) and few other select cities of Rajasthan. 

KCCO India Pvt. Ltd currently has six culinary brands under its ambit and its focus is on quality, consistency, hygiene and service across all its outlets. Apart from its restaurants, KCCO India Pvt. Ltd also operates in the space of upscale catering for groups and events. KCCO India Pvt Ltd currently has its presence in Jaipur, Ajmer, Kota with total 15 number of restaurants and culinary outlets. 

BOSS Burger creates first-of-its-kind Bolly-inspired Reel Campaign #HitHaiBOSS

BOSS Burger creates first-of-its-kind Bolly-inspired Reel Campaign #HitHaiBOSS

#HitHaiBOSS combines the quirkiness of BOSS Burger with the drama of Bollywood 

February 2022: BOSS Burger pays homage to some of the timeless boss moments and boss people from Bollywood. When you hear the words 'BOSS Burger', you know that you are going to get a burger that not only meets, but exceeds your expectations. Inspired by the over-the-top Bollywood persona that we all know and love, BOSS Burger brings that irresistible drama to life in the form of delicious burgers, sides and more. Their #HitHaiBOSS campaign captures exactly that with fun, bite-sized, Bollywood-inspired Instagram reels.

Taking a leaf out of iconic Bollywood movies, BOSS Burger adds a foodie twist to unforgettable dialogues through the #HitHaiBOSS campaign. Each reel is dedicated to one of BOSS's delicious, dramatic burgers. 'Sara sheher mujhe Loin ke naam se janta hai - Tenderloin' is for the BOSS Signature Tenderloin Burger, 'Mona tum zara side hona, ab hamari zindagi main Lucy aa gayi hai' highlighted the Juicy Lucy Mutton Burger, while the Holy Guacamole Burger was linked to Gabbar’s iconic dialogue ‘Holi Kab Hai?’. BOSS Burger even got legendary actor Ajit Khan’s son Shehzad Khan to feature in a quirky reel, co-starring the Tenderloin Burger. The campaign turned out to be so popular (reaching 10Mn+ Instagram users) that BOSS decided to go regional, and capture the fancy of Sandalwood audiences with famous Kannada dialogues. Combining the spontaneity of Instagram reels with boss dialogues, the #HitHaiBOSS campaign engaged audiences in a fun, quirky and entertaining manner. 

Some of the prominent Reels are:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CY4JqPVB7My/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CY_EzQchmIf/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CYq7FpJB-MX/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CZLyIn4F8kH/

Alexander Valladares, Chief Marketing Officer, Impresario Handmade Restaurants, says, “BOSS Burger has always been a dramatic, over-the-top burger, bundled with a lot of quirk. Right from its corrugated hard box packaging with fun messaging to the unique flavours, our burgers come fully loaded with crispy patties, flavourful sauces and more - they are generous and messy in the best way possible. The campaign came alive, paying an ode to renowned bollywood dialogues through Instagram reels. Reels have currently got people hooked so we thought - why not leverage that?”

Roshni Kavina, National Creative Head, Impresario Handmade Restaurants, says, "Reels are a part of our everyday reality.  They are addictive and are curated entertainment shorties at our thumb tips. Merging entertainment with hospitality is what we ace here at Impresario, so promoting BOSS BURGERS on the most engaging platform was an obvious choice. Reels might not have the reach of television commercials but they certainly have no spill overs, engage the exact audience we want to tartare, are cost effective and with a little bit of planning they can be extremely effective for brand growth. Our fresh approach for the BOSS BURGER campaign not only spiralled into thousands of engaging and personalised approaches to our brave story but our customers took ownership of it. Exactly what we wanted. Reels are the new commercials and we are happy to be one of the first ones to ride that wave in the Indian markets.”

For the legendary campaign, BOSS Burger engaged creators from various fields such as food, fashion and even fitness. Everyone from celebrities to VJs to Youtubers to nano and micro influencers came together to give their own unique twist to BOSS Burger's quirky, humourous custom dialogues.  The traction of the campaign resulted in an immediate uptake in orders. #HitHaiBOSS brought the charm of Bollywood to the new age Instagram reels and did a bun-derful job. 

About BOSS Burger

Launched by the same company behind SOCIAL and Smoke House Deli, BOSS Burger is a new cloud kitchen brand that ensures the same attention to detail via exceptional flavours, high-quality ingredients, and a superior brand experience that consumers expect from Impresario Handmade Restaurants. Currently operational in Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Chandigarh, Indore, Kanpur, Ahmedabad, Ranchi and Bangalore, these burgers aren't just great, they’re BOSS.

About Impresario Handmade Restaurants

Impresario Handmade Restaurants was founded in 2001 with its maiden venture Mocha - Coffees & Conversations. Today, Impresario boasts of a network of 59 restaurants across 16 Indian cities and multiple brands. Its umbrella of brands includes SOCIAL, antiSOCIAL, Smoke House Deli, Goodness to Go, Salt Water Cafe, Ishaara, Slink & Bardot, Souffle S’il Vous Plait, Prithvi Cafe, and Mocha. The company’s core strength lies in understanding the changing dining habits of young India and delivering quality experiences tailored to delight its patrons.

Impress your loved one this Valentine’s Day with Marriott Bonvoy’s all-encompassing offerings

Impress your loved one this Valentine’s Day with Marriott Bonvoy’s all-encompassing offerings!

(Decadent DIY kits that will help recreate the fun & magic at home)

Valentine’s Day this year falls on a Monday, and while weekdays are often reserved for work, Marriott International gives you a chance to make a one-of-a-kind reservation! You can focus on creating a romantic ambience for your date, cooped up at home and choose from either one of the 4 richly luxurious all-encompassing DIY kits. For those with a sweet tooth, here’s the ‘Seven Shades of Red’ menu that you can opt for and dive straight into as they are ready and fabulous to eat, in addition to their heavenly appearance.

Catering to the palates of those seeking rich and flavorful meals, hotels have introduced 3 delectable cuisines to choose from – European, Indian, Asian. If you are craving a Burrata or a Ravioli, the European DIY kit is meant for you. For those seeking a gourmet twist to a few classic Indian dishes, you can opt for the Indian spread. In the Asian DIY Kit, you can munch into a satay and relish a wok cooked rice. While you don the role of sous-chef, you will be guided via a step-by-step video.

That’s not all! Adding to the memorable romantic rendezvous, the 4th DIY kit is a beverage menu that can be purchased separately.

Ending the luxurious savory meal on a high note, are the desserts from the ‘Seven Shades of Red’ menu which will prove to be a pure, all-encompassing bliss! Consisting of patisserie entremets, this artisanal aphrodisiac menu will delicately balance and portray lux craftsmanship thus elevating the senses. The menu comprises of these desserts:

• Scarlet Red – a Vanilla cup Cake filled with homemade strawberry marmalade and topped with light strawberry flavor Italian Buttercream

• The Éclair Story – filled with raspberry jelly and pistachio mousse

• The Dark Side – a rich dark chocolate mousse filled with strawberry jelly and almond cake

• The classic Red Velvet sponge cake layered with tangy cream cheese mousse

• Ruby Cheesecake – which is a Classic Philadelphia cheesecake topped with fresh berry, strawberry, and white chocolate Chantilly

• The Ispahan consists of a raspberry mousse inside rose ganache and lychee Jelly and base pistachio sponge

• Very Berry will have a pistachio financier sponge layered with vanilla buttercream and fresh strawberry chopped and mix berry jam

‘Seven Shades of Red’ will be available across multiple properties, while the DIY kits can be ordered from any of the following properties – St. Regis Mumbai, JW Marriott Juhu, JW Marriott Sahar, JW Marriott Bengaluru, Marriott Bengaluru Whitefield, JW Marriott Kolkata, The Westin Gurgaon, JW Marriott Aerocity, New Delhi, JW Marriott Chandigarh, Courtyard Raipur, Marriott Indore, The Westin Chennai, JW Marriott Pune, Sheraton Grand Pune, The Westin Dhaka, The Westin Goa, The Westin Hyderabad, Courtyard by Marriott Bhopal, Renaissance Lucknow , Le Meridien Gurgaon, Jaipur Marriott Hotel , Goa Marriott Resort & Spa ,Ritz Carlton Bengluru and Kochi Marriott. You can be pre-order from 3rd Feb onwards. To order, call 011-43169690, WhatsApp text +91 97100 82100 or visit MarriottBonvoyonWheels.com

Marriott Bonvoy Ò Makes Each Night Count Twice For Members With New Global Promotion

Marriott BonvoyÒ Makes Each Night Count Twice For Members With New Global Promotion

New Promotion Offers Bonus Earning Opportunities and Fast-Track to Elite Status

January 2022: Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program, is kicking off the year with a rewarding promotion, offering members bonus points and Elite Night Credits on each paid night of their stay, with a fast-track to Elite status and more points for free nights, experiences and more.

Registration starts today for the global promotion, which gives members 1,000 bonus points and an additional Elite Night Credit for each paid night of the member’s stay – effectively making each night count twice during the promotion earning period of February 8 to May 4, 2022. This means a new member could achieve Silver Elite status with just a five-night stay – unlocking elevated Silver Elite benefits such as priority late check-out and 10% bonus points on eligible future hotel stays – all while earning substantial bonus points towards their next free night, Marriott Bonvoy Moments experience, or even to put towards trip add-ons like flights or car rental.

There is no limit to the number of bonus points or bonus Elite Night Credits that members can earn during the promotion, meaning members can earn one bonus Elite Night Credit and 1,000 bonus points for each night of the promotion earning period.  As long as they are registered, members can begin earning bonuses from the very first eligible night that falls within the earning period, and on each eligible night thereafter.

The offer is global, providing more opportunities to experience the world through Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary hotel brands – whether that’s close to home or in the most inspiring destinations around the globe.  From distinctive luxury to smart conveniences, members can find their ideal stay through the thousands of hotels and resorts participating in Marriott Bonvoy.

Here are some important details:

• The promotion earning period runs from February 8, 2022 to May 4, 2022.

• Stays completed prior to registration are not eligible to earn bonus points or bonus Elite Night Credits with this promotion. Members must register here before April 20, 2022.

• With this promotion, members can earn unlimited bonus points and bonus Elite Night Credits during the 85-day earning period, up to 85,000 bonus points and 85 bonus Elite Night Credits.

• Members must book stays directly with Marriott on Marriott.com, Marriott Bonvoy Mobile app or through a reservations center. Rates available through most third-party online retailers and select travel agency rates do not qualify for this promotion.

• The following brands are not participating in the promotion: Homes & Villas by Marriott International, Marriott Executive Apartments® and Marriott Vacation Club® owner-occupied weeks. Ritz-Carlton Reserve®, BVLGARI, and other hotels that do not currently participate in Marriott Bonvoy® are also excluded from the promotion.

To see the Terms & Conditions, visit here.

In addition to the global promotion, members enjoy other benefits like exclusive member rates when they book directly with Marriott, contactless check-in with the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app and free wifi for every stay. To join Marriott Bonvoy for free and to learn more about all the benefits, visit Marriott.com

Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre invites you to indulge in myriad delicacies from the Orient as they celebrate the CHINESE NEW YEAR (YEAR OF THE TIGER) at Chao Chinese Bistro

Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre invites you to indulge in myriad delicacies from the Orient  as they celebrate the CHINESE NEW YEAR (YEAR OF THE TIGER) at Chao Chinese Bistro 

Chao Chinese Bistro, Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre is back with the most awaited and the annual Chinese New  Year Festival, it is the Year of Tiger and a 15 day special Food Festival is designed featuring special treats and  unforgettable experiences that brings you good luck, great health, and prosperity with lots of happiness and  fortune. 

The Chinese New Year 2022 will be celebrated on Tuesday, 1st February according to the traditional Chinese  calendar. In Chinese astrology, each year is represented by an animal. 2022 is the Year of the Tiger, the third of  all zodiac animals. 

Throughout the festival starting 28th January, Chao Chinese Bistro will be decked up with Asian Lanterns,  Greetings posters & photo booth, Table set-up with mini Tigers and lamps and will present a special menu that features Chinese New Year elements. Nostalgic dishes such as, “Bao in Chao –Assortment of Baos to choose  from along with relishing dips, Hong Kong style crispy tofu, Wok tossed Sichuan edamame, Lamb shank with bok  choi in chili sauce, Kaffir lime infused baked cheesecake, Oriental Cocktails, and Mocktails and last but not the  least Fortune Cookies” can be found on the menu. 

General Manager, Mr. Imit Arora informed that “To mark the Lunar New Year, the Hotel’s master-chefs have  curated an extensive array of signature dishes from the 8 great regions of the Orient -- Sichuan, Hunan,  Cantonese, Fujian, Zhejiang, Anhui, Jiangsu, and Shandong.” Usher in promising beginnings and boundless joy  with time-honored extraordinary indulgences at Chao Chinese Bistro.  

At CHAO– Chinese Bistro, like every year we celebrate the new year along with our patrons and bring you  delectable flavor’s from the Chinese mainland, fresh and untampered, soulful, authentic, and a delight to your  senses. Also, Executive, Chef Raj Kumar informed that “The festival showcases the indigenous delicacies of the  Chinese cuisine, some signature dishes include - Kimchi and Edamame Bao, Wok tossed wild mushroom with  chestnut in chili bean sauce, Lamb chops with star anise and bok choi, Wok tossed Sichuan edamame,  Cantonese tossed vegetable with hand-rolled noodles, Stir fry Chinese greens in chili lemongrass sauce and not  to forget the Kaffir lime infused baked cheese cake and the Five spiced chocolate dome to let you droll over.  

Date – 28th January – 13th February 2022 

Timings – 12.30 PM TO 3 PM, 7 PM TO 11 PM 

Price – Chinese New Year Set Menu or A-la-carte  

One Rep Global appointed as India representative for Broadwick Soho London

One Rep Global appointed as India representative for Broadwick Soho London

One Rep Global has been appointed the India Sales & Marketing representation office for Broadwick Soho London. Slated for launch in late 2022, Broadwick Soho is a 57 room luxurious boutique hotel, home to a Sicilian inspired restaurant and terrace, rooftop lounge, intimate dining room and speakeasy bar. 

On this occasion, Hemant Mediratta, Founder One Rep Global said, “As part of our commitment to bring the best of the best to Indian consumers, we are excited on this latest addition to our portfolio. The residential style guest rooms, including one Penthouse and nine suites, are all individually designed, with many rooms offering private balconies and all featuring the finest appointments and amenities. 

Designed by Martin Brudnizki, the refreshingly original property will offer impeccable personalised

service in opulent yet cosy surroundings, inspired by the spirit of Soho. Hailed for his style blending modernity and authenticity, Brudnizki’s approach is a perfect match for the neighbourhood, where the creative, eclectic and exhilarating atmosphere is as emblematic as a warm welcome.

Marriott International Earns 100% Perfect Score on 2022 Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index

Marriott International, Inc. today received for the ninth consecutive year a score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2022 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ workplace equality.

The CEI rates companies on detailed criteria falling under four central pillars of non-discrimination policies across business entities; equitable benefits for LGBTQ workers and their families; supporting an inclusive culture; and corporate social responsibility.

“Marriott International has a more than 90-year history of fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging,” said Ty Breland, Executive Vice President, and Chief Human Resources Officer, Marriott International. “We are proud of this recognition for the ninth consecutive year and will continue to implement policies and programs that create a welcoming workplace for all.”

Marriott has consistently been recognized for its outstanding workplace and diversity, equity and inclusion programs. For a comprehensive list, please visit Awards and Recognition.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

TAAI seeks immediate attention & action on GST rationalisations and TCS in letter to Finance Minister

TAAI seeks immediate attention & action on GST rationalizations and TCS in letter to Finance Minister

In a letter drafted to the Union Minister of Finance, Nirmala Sitharaman, Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) has presented certain important points, which requires Ministry’s prompt attention especially in the upcoming Budget 2022. Speaking on which, Jyoti Mayal, President, TAAI said that the pandemic has created a havoc for the travel trade for nearly two years now with no respite to the members from the government. “As the President of one of the oldest travel associations of India, I would like to bring into notice, inbound tourism business; GST competition internationally: there is a huge gap between what overseas agents charge and what our members - tour operators and travel agents are required to charge.

She further spoke about GST input credits as to how hotels be allowed to charge IGST, which will enable seamless availability of credit across India. "Tour operators to be enabled a special presumptive GST rate of 1.8 per cent with full GST setoffs, travel agents to be allowed the option of exploring the reseller model for charging," she said expressing concerns on various other matters and seeking an immediate action.

Adding to which Jay Bhatia, VP, TAAI further said that tourist transporters should also be allowed the provision for availing GST setoffs on the interstate tourist transport taxes, taxes on parking fees and taxes on fuel which is their biggest input costs. “GST on travel and tourism related services must be given a tax holiday for atleast two years, so as to increase the business and bypass the competition, due to the pandemic concerns, where business has dropped to nearly zero, ” he said.

Talking about the Tax collected at source (TCS) Bettaiah Lokesh, HSG, TAAI commented on some points like ease of doing business, displace business from Indian travel companies to companies out of India, removing the safety net from Indian travellers and further explained other points as well with their cons and pros. He added that under the points mentioned, and due to the waste of time in ensuring compliances, loss in business due to inflated pricing due to GST and TCS, deviation of business from TAAI members to online companies and other travel agents overseas, we the association once again appeal to abolish TCS.

In the concluding part of the letter, Shreeram Patel, Treasurer, TAAI put forth his views and quoted, "We as an association are fully aligned to the nation’s need of enhancing tax compliance. Ensuring tax compliance on travel can effectively be done through pan cards, Aadhaar cards and passport detail records of the travel booker, as an alternative, which is already being done.

The TAAI office bearers unanimously in the letter addressed to Sitharaman, said that despite the same, if there is still a gap in the tax coverage, they would be happy to discuss a way forward with the Ministry. "This will also help us mutually develop a process, which can lead to resolving multiple queries on this topic. We as an association, seek the Ministry’s immediate attention and action on GST rationalisations and TCS to be withdrawn," the association said.

Prime Minister to unveil 216-ft Statue of Equality in Hyderabad

Prime Minister to unveil 216-ft Statue of Equality in Hyderabad

President Ramnath Kovind will unveil the inner chamber 120 kg golden Ramanuja on 13th February, 2022

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate the Statue of Equality on 5th February, 2022. It is a 216-feet tall statue of Sri Ramanujacharya, an 11th century Bhakti saint, and a revolutionary social reformer. The 45-acre complex housing Statue of Equality is centered in Shamshabad, Hyderabad, Telangana. President Ramnath Kovind will unveil the inner chamber 120 kg golden Ramanuja on February 13, 2022. 

These events along with a 1035 yaaga fire oblation and spiritual activities such as mass manthra chanting are to be conducted as part of Sri Ramanuja Sahasrabdi ‘Samaroham’.  It is to celebrate the 1000th birth anniversary of the saint.  Events will kick off from February 2, 2022. Telangana Chief Minister Chandrashekar Rao will be co-hosting the event with HH Chinna Jeeyar Swami. Several other chief ministers, politicians, celebrities, and actors will also grace the function. 

This 1000-crore INR project was funded entirely by donations from devotees globally. The inner sanctorum deity of Sri Ramanujacharya is made of 120 kilos of gold to commemorate the 120 years the saint walked this earth. The outdoor 216-ft Statue of Equality will be the world’s second tallest statue featuring a sitting posture. It is composed of ‘panchaloha’, a combination of five metals: gold, silver, copper, brass, and zync. The complex has identical recreations of 108 Divya Desams, the 108 ornately carved Vishnu temples mentioned in the works of the Alvars, mystic Tamil saints. 

Born in 1017 in Sri Perumbudur, Tamil Nadu, Sri Ramanujacharya liberated millions from social, cultural, gender, educational and economic discrimination with the foundational conviction that every human is equal regardless of nationality, gender, race, caste, or creed. He opened the doors of temples to all people, including those subjected to extreme discrimination. He remains a timeless icon of equality for social reformists around the world.

In his comments, Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji, said, “We heartily welcome everyone including chief guests, dignitaries, devotees, and people from all walks of life for the grand opening of Statue of Equality.  Bhagavad Ramanujacharya has remained a true icon of equality for 1000 years and this project will ensure his teachings are practiced for at least another 1000 years. Our mission is to make Statue of Equality a culturally paramount destination for people across the globe and inspire everyone to make the world a more equal place to live. Today, as the world is fraught with divisiveness and populism, the need of the hour is Sri Ramanujacharya’s ideology.  A torch bearer of Vaishnavism, Bhagavad Ramanuja distilled the essence of Vedas and ancient wisdom to promote the timeless message of equality.  Inherently, non-discrimination and equality are the cornerstones of life.” 

The foundation stone for the project was laid in 2014. The 54-ft high base building, named ‘Bhadra Vedi’, has dedicated floors for a Vedic digital library and research center, ancient Indian texts, a theatre, an educational gallery and a robust multi-language audio tour detailing many woks of Sri Ramanuja Acharya.

Enjoy a Liberating Staycation at Novotel Hyderabad Airport this republic Day

Enjoy a Liberating Staycation at Novotel Hyderabad Airport this republic Day

Those looking for a quick and hassle-free break must pack their bags and head to Novotel Hyderabad Airport for a liberating and safe staycation. It’s a perfect time to enjoy a mini getaway at Novotel Hyderabad Airport while capturing great moments and witnessing spectacular attractions.

Come and discover Novotel Hyderabad Airport between 24th till 28th January 2022 with an exclusive 25% discount and enjoy an array of activities ranging from peaceful poolside relaxation to full-on action adventure at the sports arena. Novotel Hyderabad Aiport promises a fun-filled weekend with a host of activities packed with immunity-boosting meals (inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner). With our All Safe program, we promise to make your mini-vacation a truly memorable experience.

That’s not all on the occasion of Republic Day; Novotel Hyderabad Airport (NHA) gives you a reason to celebrate the day with your family and loved ones alike with a host of unlimited indulgences filled with patriotic fervour. The special buffet will serve a choice of the finest Indian cuisines to satiate your taste buds. In the truest Nationalist spirit, NHA is set for Republic Day festivities with a beautifully themed spread depicting the diversity of our Nation.

So what are you waiting? Go ahead and make your reservations now.

Venue: Novotel Hyderabad Airport
Date: 24th January to 28th January
For reservations, please call: +91 7660010554

Budget Expectations 2022 - TAAI

Budget Expectations 2022 - TAAI

As President of TAAI, I very strongly believe there are several aspects which can be expected in the upcoming budget session to support the entire sector holistically ‘Travel Tourism & Hospitality’ which will help in making this sector survive, revive & economically support India to become the largest hub for the world. For this, it is extremely important for both the central and state governments to work in tandem to facilitate this sector & support it to be included in the concurrent list to get Industry Status to make it more structured.

The government should strive to increase the disposable income of the middle classes so that discretionary spending will rise. Concrete steps should be taken to improve the cash flows and reduce the working capital burden on start-ups, existing MSMEs & SMEs. Access to easy credit, reducing income tax rate & GST tax rate, abolishment of TCS & wage support with ease of business. Strengthening MSMEs, creating a fund of funds scheme for technology adoption for use in industry 4.0, reviving the Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS) for technology up-gradation.

To revive this struggling sector, we need ‘One India One Tourism’ approach inclusive of ‘One Tax Structure.’ Important points to be considered are E visa fees waiver for all tourist visas for 2022-2023, to support inbound revival Export status for tourism export earnings to support the inbound revival. Doubled, expenditure allocation for tourism ministry to enable intensive global reach out to support the inbound revival. Domestic income tax travel credit for Indian citizens and Indian companies to support domestic retail and domestic mice pickup. Global bidding fund to enable bidding support to Indian mice companies to bring global mice events to India. Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) extension for tourism and hospitality. ATF ought to be brought under the GST to make air travel more viable for the entire aviation stakeholders.

Lastly & most vital is a structured mechanism to future secure travel agents’ payments to ensure that we create security for our travel agents & operators’ survival. Travel agents’ payments to principals are unsecured credit and we need to ensure that some form of mechanisms whether escrow or guarantee or underwriting-based mechanisms are in place to ensure that travel agents’ money stays secure.

Hilton is trying to tap into the $639 billion wellness tourism market with a fitness-focused hotel room.

Hilton has an answer for fitness fanatics who can't take a rest day, even on vacation.

For the last five years, some Hilton locations have included Five Feet to Fitness, an "in-room wellness concept" that offers 11 different fitness machines and exercise tools steps from a guest's bed.

The rooms, which are available in Hilton locations in Atlanta, San Francisco, Shanghai, and more, are equipped with an exercise bike, medicine balls, light-weight dumbbells, bands, TRX ropes, yoga blocks, and other supplies. 

The setup includes a giant TV filled with tutorials on how to use all the equipment, and guided workouts for yoga, high-intensity interval training, cycling, boxing, and meditation. 

It's Hilton's answer to the travel industry introducing new features to cash in on the $639 billion "wellness tourism" trend, or wealthy travelers' interest in retreats focused on self-care, health, and spirituality. 

In 2019, the Four Seasons launched Sensei Lanai, a relaxation resort offering wellness consultations and sensory walking meditation. Marriott will offer wellness-focused suites, complete with deep soaking tubs, bath salts, and wood decor, in its renovated Newport Beach location 

I stayed at Hilton's Five Feet to the Fitness room in the DoubleTree at Newark, New Jersey to see how "well" they made me feel. Here's what it was like.

Constant motivation to move

Upon walking in, I was immediately impressed by the selection of different tools. The hotel gyms I've stayed at typically don't have TRX bands and guided training like Five Feet to Fitness rooms do. 

With weights that ranged between 5 and 18 pounds, the setup felt geared more toward light strength training and might not appeal to guests who are used to heavier weights and more intense reps.

Though the setup could be stressful for people who don't want to workout on vacation, I view physical exercise as a mental health treatment. After struggling with depression and anxiety for years, consistently working out has brought me relief that I struggle to break from during long trips. 

Business travelers could further benefit from having exercise equipment so close to them. Frequent business travelers were more likely to report poor self-rated health, no physical activity, and trouble sleeping, according to Harvard Business Review. Five Feet to Fitness rooms can provide a place to workout late at night, when hotel gyms might close. 

Hilton said the Five Feet to Fitness rooms are ideal for "road warriors, exercise enthusiasts and wellness aspirants who want to maintain their fitness regime, even while on the road."