PRIDE HOTELS TO EXPAND ITS FOOTPRINTS TO 100 HOTELS BY 2030

PRIDE HOTELS TO EXPAND ITS FOOTPRINTS TO 100 HOTELS BY 2030

Pride Group of Hotels which presently has 44 properties nationally has embarked on an ambitious expansion plan to open 100 hotels by 2030. Once the new hotels are operational, Pride Group will have 100 properties with over 10,000 keys spread across various geographical regions, primarily in tier 1 and tier 2 markets. The focus is on an asset-light model for expansion with a major slice of the portfolio managed directly by the company. Most of the new properties will be located in popular leisure destinations with great tourism potential.

Announcing the developments Mr. SP Jain, Chairman and Managing Director, Pride Hotels Limited, said “Subsequent to the challenges due to the pandemic in the past two years we are now witnessing exponential growth. While we will have 50 properties by the end of this year we plan to expand our footprints nationally by doubling our portfolio to 100 hotels by 2030. With the market gaining rapid momentum we will soon come back to expansion mode for our flagship properties. The Pride Group performed exceedingly well in 2021-2022 compared to 2020-2021. The ADR and occupancy have gone up from 43% to 65% for the current year 2022-2023. We are expecting to clock a turnover of Rs. 250 crores this fiscal year”.

The new portfolio includes resorts and hotels in the cities of Nainital, Jim Corbett, Jabalpur, Daman, Rishikesh, Surendranagar, Dwaraka, Bhavnagar, Bharuch, Agra, Somnath, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Neemrana, Rajkot, Bhopal, Aurangabad, and Haldwani. Pride Group has also forayed into the premium service apartment space with the launch of its new brand ‘Pride Suites’, with the first property signed in Gurugram.

Currently, Pride Hotels operates and manages a chain of hotels under the brand name “Pride Plaza Hotel” an Indian Luxury Collection, “Pride Hotel” which are conveniently centrally located upscale business hotels, “Pride Resorts” at mesmerizing destinations and Mid-Market segment hotels for every business “Pride Biznotel”. All four brands are well appreciated and frequented by corporate clients, domestic and foreign tourists. Pride Hotel is a homegrown brand that resonates with true Indian hospitality. The group’s vision is to establish Pride Hotels as the best Indian Hospitality chain.

Visit: www.pridehotel.com

Trends | SATTVIK WEDDINGS AT WELCOMHOTEL KATRA

SATTVIK WEDDINGS AT WELCOMHOTEL KATRA

Located in the heart of the divine city Katra, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels Katra has 83 well-appointed rooms overlooking the Trikuta Hills home to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. Just 45 kilometres away from the Jammu airport, the hotel is an idyllic destination nestled in the lush green valleys with panoramic views. Amidst the pine trees, breathtakingly beautiful landscape, the hotel stands tall like a crown jewel of Katra city.

Welcomhotel Katra has opened new horizons for weddings and MICE in this holy city of India. The hotel offers an ideal indoor and outdoor space for events, weddings and celebrations with a seamless pillar-less banquet hall of 225 sq mt that can accommodate up to 250 guests opening into a dedicated pre function area & outdoor gardens.  

The picturesque and scenic backdrop, complimented with the culinary strengths of ITC Hotels, are an ideal combination to curate memorable experiences during weddings and wedding related events. Local delicacies like Kalahari Cheese, Rajma, Ambal, Shingare ki Kadhi, Mewe ka Kofta and Tumba Ajwain Aloo etc. will take guests on an expedition of this rich, Sattvik cuisine. 

River rafting features high on the itinerary of honeymooners. Katra has one of the best rafting stretches in the region with its fifteen-kilometer-long stretch bordered by lush green surroundings in the white waters of Chenab that is 24 kilometers from the hotel. Moreover, Bhimgarh Fort, 20 kilometers from the hotel, and hot springs, 5 kilometers away are also favoured by the tourists and honeymooners to explore. The special honeymoon package at Welcomhotel Katra offers romantic settings in privacy of one’s room.

Welcomhotel Katra is the base camp for those couples wanting to partake of the region’s picturesque attractions, including Patnitop which is just 85 kilometres by road from the hotel and the route to the hill station is truly poetic with the beautifully lined pine and cedar trees. Nathatop, 10 kilometers from Patnitop, and Sanasar, 10 kilometers from Nathatop, are two other nearby attractions where adventure activities take place and guests can revel in the nature.

Welcomhotel Katra offers a quintessential ITC Hotels culinary experience with signature dishes on offer at its two restaurants, WelcomCafe and Dough and Co. The WelcomCafe serves the best of gourmet flavours in international and regional vegetarian cuisine - it’s one of a kind in its offerings and the finest in Katra. Dough & Co. offers a range of teas and coffees with short eats to go with them with some mesmerising views of the valley and Trikuta Hills.

The WelcomSthalika represents regional fare from Jammu region, and is prepared in Sattvik style bringing out the flavors predominant in Katra and adjoining areas. Some of these local preparations are Jammu Rajma, Ambal, Shingare ki Kadhi, Mewe ka kofta and Tumba ajwain aloo.  The curated menu uses locally grown ingredients like Jammu Rajma, walnuts, almonds, badi masala, tumba ajwain, shahi zeera, saunf, sonth and more in traditional style. 

While the mere mention of Katra brings to fore images of the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi, there is much more to this high point destination. Welcomhotel Katra is a destination that offers a gleeful experience to the discerning traveller with interests ranging from pure spirituality to celebration events, rest and rejuvenation in this holy city.

About Welcomhotel: www.itchotels.com/welcomhotel:

Welcomhotel is a collection of premium hotels designed for those who demand more and seek bespoke experiences to make the most out of their stay, optimizing their travel intent. With an endeavour to provide immersive and enriching experiences, the brand is reflective of the warmth of Indian culture while upholding the benchmark service standards that ITC Hotels is known for. From curated journeys that enhance leisure trips, to those that help maximize the efficiency of business stays, at WelcomHotel, every effort is made to add value to the new-age traveller.  It is this vision that helps enrich the lives of the guests, the community, and our hotel associates through integrated efforts and holistic initiatives. ITC Hotels manages and owns many hotels under the Welcomhotel brand including Welcomhotel Chail, Welcomhotel Shimla, Welcomhotel Sheraton New Delhi, Welcomhotel Mussoorie, Welcomhotel Jodhpur, Welcomhotel Fort & Dunes, Khimsar, Welcomhotel Visakhapatnam, Welcomhotel Mammalapuram, Welcomhotel Coimbatore, WelcomhotelPahalgam, WelcomhotelKatra, Welcomhotel Amritsar, Welcomhotel Bay Island (Port Blair), Welcomhotel Dwarka (New Delhi) and Welcomhotel Guntur. 

About ITC Hotels:

ITC Hotels is the largest chain of hotels in the World, which has maximum number of LEED Platinum Certified Properties. Continuing with its Planet Positive Promise, ITC Hotels launched Sunya Aqua or zero-kilometre water in glass bottles across the chain over a decade back and have taken this lead further and pioneered the mitigation of single use plastic from its operations pan India. While ITC Windsor is the first hotel in the world to achieve LEED Zero Carbon Certification, ITC Grand Chola is the largest hotel in the world to achieve the LEED Zero Carbon Certification.  ITC Gardenia is the third hotel in world to receive the LEED Zero Carbon Certification.

Initiative | Signum Hotel Academy partners with Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) to train entry level workforce for hospitality

Signum Hotel Academy partners with Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC)

to train entry-level workforce for hospitality

New Delhi, May 2022: Signum Hotel Academy, an educational initiative by Signum Hotels & Resorts, has partnered with Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) to conduct THSC-approved hospitality courses. The affiliation aims to create a pool of talent for entry-level positions in hospitality that is facing a crunch of human resources in current times.

The THSC-approved courses will impart theoretical knowledge as well as on-the-job training in key operational areas of a hotel including the Front Office, Food & Beverages, Food Production, and Housekeeping. Signum Cityscapes Mohali has also been approved as the on-the-job training center for practical exposure.

Commenting on the affiliation, Mehul Sharma, Founder – of Signum Hotels & Resorts said, ‘The pandemic had stalled hospitality hiring and training, and drove away interested students from opting a career in this sector. With business reviving, hiring has also re-started but now there is a shortage of skilled talent. We are happy to partner with THSC in our shared vision to create more skilled manpower for the industry.’

On the THSC-approved courses being offered at Signum Hotel Academy, Mehul further added, ‘our courses follow a focused approach so the student spends time in learning and training in their core area of interest. This also fast tracks learning and absorption of talent in the workforce.’

Shilpa Dikshiit, Head - of Signum Hotel Academy said, ‘THSC partnership will add further credibility to the courses and will enhance program enrolments further. Our courses offer the ideal balance of theoretical knowledge and practical exposure.’

Rajan Bahadur, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) said, ‘We welcome Signum Hotels to our Training Partner network. THSC is committed to creating a robust and sustainable ecosystem for skill development in the industry to fulfill the manpower requirements and bridge the gap. With Signum Hotel Academy we will expand our reach with a common aim to develop skilled talent for hospitality and other sub-sectors of the industry.’

Three-month courses offered at Signum Hotel Academy are as follows:

·        Soft Skills Training

·        Food & Beverage Service

·        Commis Chef

·        Front Office Associate

·        Guest Service Associate (Housekeeping)

Signia by Hilton San Jose debuts as Silicon Valley’s largest and most distinctive hotel

Signia by Hilton San Jose debuts as Silicon Valley’s largest and most distinctive hotel

SAN JOSE, Calif. – (April 2022) – Today, Hilton (NYSE: HLT) announces the opening and conversion of Silicon Valley’s largest hotel with the debut of Signia by Hilton San Jose, representing Signia by Hilton’s first hotel in California. The hotel is the second in the brand portfolio following Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek’s debut in 2021. Owned by Eagle Canyon Capital, the stylish 805-room premier hotel offers a sought-after location to stay and connect with cultural tastemakers and business leaders in one of California’s most inventive cities. The boldly redesigned hotel features a never-before-seen lobby and intriguing bar and is undergoing a modernization of its Main Tower which is set for completion in early 2023.

“We are delighted to welcome Signia by Hilton to San Jose, a city that is synonymous with innovation. The hotel’s debut strengthens the city’s positioning as a leading destination for some of the most prominent meetings and social events,” said Danny Hughes, executive vice president and president, Americas, Hilton. “Regarded as the center of tech-ingenuity, San Jose offers the perfect location to expand Hilton’s California presence, which is an integral part of our robust strategy in our largest growing market within the U.S.”

Reflecting the luminary spirit of Silicon Valley, Signia by Hilton San Jose blends modern grandeur with sophisticated style and offers an exceptional location. Located within walking distance of the San Jose Convention Center, the hotel is ideally situated on Plaza de César Chávez Park and surrounded by Fortune 500 companies. The property is located near some of the city’s most renowned cultural venues, including the San Jose Museum of Art, Tech Museum of Innovation, San Jose State University and Opera San Jose as well as sports and entertainment venues like SAP Center and Levi's Stadium. Signia by Hilton San Jose guests can also enjoy the Pacific Ocean coast and some of the state’s world-class wineries, just a little over 30 miles away. 

“The debut of Signia by Hilton San Jose marks a significant milestone for the expansion of this dynamic brand and this hotel offers an elevated experience with exceptional full-service amenities to serve all types of travelers,” said Matt Schuyler, chief brand officer, Hilton. “The property encapsulates the inventive spirit of Silicon Valley and this innovative new brand, from its world-class design and inspiring meetings and events offerings to imaginative culinary programming and premium wellness offerings. Signia by Hilton San Jose serves as the ideal destination to bring together sophisticated business, leisure and group travelers from around the globe.”

“We are excited to open our doors and introduce the San Jose community to a new era for this landmark property which will serve as a cultural anchor within our city,” said Sam Hirbod, president & chief executive officer, Eagle Canyon Capital. “Signia by Hilton San Jose will offer a place to see and be seen and we are delighted to welcome back some of the city’s most influential tastemakers and once again, become a hub for both locals and guests in the heart of downtown.” 

REPORT OF NAAC PEER TEAM VISIT @BCIHMCT, NEW DELHI

REPORT OF NAAC PEER TEAM VISIT @BCIHMCT, NEW DELHI

A National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) Peer Team visited Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology during May 04 –May 05, 2022 for the reaccreditation of the BCIHMCT for the 3rd cycle . NAAC Peer Team comprised of Dr J.P.Sharma Vice Chancellor  M L Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan ((Chairman, NAAC Peer Team), Dr. Bivraj Bhusan Parida Professor, Department of Tourism Management, The University of Burdwan, West Bengal ((Member Coordinator, NAAC Peer Team) and Prof. Amar Zachariah Cherian, PRINCIPAL, Sarosh Institute of Hotel Administration, Mangalore, Karnataka (Member, NAAC Peer Team) visited the institute in connection with Assessment and Accreditation.

Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology aims at enhancing the education quality through various learner centric methods, which provides practical meaning to Learning Outcome Based Education for the students of hospitality.

Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, affiliated to Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University has voluntarily taken the lead, went ahead and invited the members of NAAC – National Assessment and Accreditation Council, an Autonomous institution of the University Grants Commission, for assessment of quality of its Institution of Hotel Management and Catering Technology for getting it accredited as an institution imparting quality education in its state of the art infrastructure. Previously, the Institution has been accredited on a seven-point scale at A Grade with CGPA of 3.13. The certificate of accreditation was presented to the heads of accredited institutions during NAAC Accreditation Awards Ceremony convened in Bangalore.

 During the welcome address by Principal Prof. R K Bhandari, he highlighted the role of BCIHMCT in shaping the careers of budding hospitality professionals through appropriate academic and modern methods of teaching and learning. The focus of Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology has always been to empower and enrich the new generations of hoteliers and to contribute to the future of the hospitality sector.

 He welcomed the dignitaries and thanked the NAAC PEER TEAM for their valuable suggestions and hoped that everyone in the institution would strive for taking the college to greater heights by their dedicated work. Speaking on the occasion of the Exit Meeting, Dr J.P.Sharma Vice Chancellor  M L Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan ((Chairman, NAAC Peer Team) shared his observations with the staff and students. He was happy by the work carried out by BCIHMCT and noted that the college is making steady progress in becoming college of excellence in the near future. Finally, the chairman presented the exit report of re-accreditation to the principal and IQAC coordinator of the college.

 The two day visit of The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) Peer Team visit was concluded with an exit meeting held in the BANQUET HALL of College premises on Thursday 5th May 2022 at 5.00 pm

WITT Celebrated Women Empowerment with Grandeur: TAAI

WITT Celebrated Women Empowerment with Grandeur: TAAI

The newest initiative of TAAI, Women in TAAI and Tourism (WITT) organised its first conclave in New Delhi to celebrate Women's Empowerment. The event’s success can be gauged by the fact that more than 200 TAAI & WITT members along with extensive media were present during the deliberations. Initiated in 2021 by the dynamic president of TAAI, Mrs Jyoti Mayal, WITT is an integral part of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI).

Bettaiah Lokesh, Hon Secretary General, delivering the introductory remarks and setting the tone of the conclave, apprised the attendees of the contribution of women in various sectors; be it politics, leadership, decision making on various fronts, education, healthcare, etc.

Taking the Conclave forward, Jyoti Mayal, President introduced the Office Bearers and Managing Committee members present at the august gathering. In her welcome address, Mayal introduced the idea, formation, and process involved in setting up WITT, which was well received and appreciated by the attendees. She shared a three-step approach to Entrepreneurship, Employment, & Leadership based on which women are contributing to the world. Mayal also referred to the statistics issued by various organisations WTTC, ILO, UNWTO etc wherein the contribution of women has been recorded.

WITT achieved its core objective which is to involve “Woman in Tourism” to join hands to empower the women of India, when Shri G Kamala Rao, Director General, Ministry of Tourism praised and appreciated the efforts made in his keynote speech. He went on to highlight the importance of women in Indian culture and quoted various verses from ancient Sanskrit texts wherein the importance of women has been demarcated.

Mr Praveen Kumar, Former – Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) profoundly thanked WITT for organising such a conclave. In his remarks, he agreed to the fact that women’s contribution in travel trade must be highlighted, and focus should be on turning the unorganised contribution organised so that women get their due share of recognition and growth. Mr Kumar also communicated that he would take up with the MSDE the sensitivity of having more women centric programs initiated and floated to extend support to the community.

The first session, Weaving Tales, moderated by Jyoti Mayal have had the presence of esteemed panellists Rupinder Brar, ADG, Ministry of Tourism; Navina Jafa, Cultural Activist; Shazia IImi, Politician & Journalist; Jahnabi Phookan, Past President, FICCI Flo; Sanjay Bose, ITC’s Hotels; Aarti Manocha, Celebrated Wedding Planner. The deliberations & tales were around mentoring safety, security, hygiene, and also issues and challenges which are usually faced by women. Comprehensive capacity building programmes at various levels & empowered women to lead was also deliberated.

The second session, Create your Sunshine, had esteemed panellists Sandeep Dwivedi, COO Interglobe; Nandita Kanchan, Commissioner of Income Tax (Delhi); Charu Wali Khanna, Advocate; Parineeta Sethi, Publisher; Sonia Bharwani, VFS; Aditi Malik, Soft Skills Expert. Moderating the session Jay Bhatia sought inputs from everyone on various issues related to taxation, legal, skills required, and the contribution of women in various sectors & how they today were empowered with skills to create their sunshine.

SATTE team that partnered with WITT unveiled the Shakti Awards logo at the conclave. And, felicitated various women leaders; Leading from the front - Rupinder Barar, ADG Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India; Chef Manisha Bhasin, Sr. Executive Chief at ITC Hotels for the outstanding contribution in Hospitality; Navina Jafa, Cultural Activist, Dancer & Academician for the outstanding contribution in promoting Heritage Tourism; Arshdeep Anand, Board of Director at Holiday Moods Adventures Groups of Companies for promoting Adventure Tourism; Jahnabi Phookan, Founder of Jungle Travels India for the outstanding contribution in the Holistic promotion of tourism in NE India; and, The Leader of Future - Kanika Tekaiwal, Founder of JetSetGo India.

To conclude, Shreeram Patel, Hon Treasurer delivered a Vote of Thanks with a special mention of VFS Global, SATTE, Indigo, Government of India – Incredible India, Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) for supporting the cause & making the conclave a success.

Managing Committee members Shri Anoop Kanuga, Dr P Murugesan, Shri Ramasamy Venkatachalam, Shri Kulvinder Singh Kohli were an integral part of the conclave along with past President Balbir Mayal, whose empowerment for President Jyoti Mayal was appreciated.

Fairfield by Marriott expands footprints in Western India with the Opening of the Fairfield by Marriott Vadodara in Gujarat

Fairfield by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, today announced the opening of Fairfield by Marriott Vadodara. Situated in the heart of the city with proximity to the Civil Airport Harni and the central business district, the 96-room hotel is designed with modern amenities for today’s business traveler, creating an environment that focuses on the warmth and simplicity of delivering a seamless hospitality experience.

“We are thrilled to introduce our first Fairfield by Marriott in Vadodara. This opening marks the 22nd Fairfield by Marriott to join our growing portfolio of 16 brands operating across the country,” said Ranju Alex, Area Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International. “The opening further complements our commitment to growth in the region, bringing a diversified portfolio for different types of travelers to Western India.” 

Located in Alkapuri , the commercial abode of the city Fairfield by Marriott Vadodara  its within close proximity to upscale fashion boutiques, lifestyle stores and popular, local attractions like the Laxmi Vilas Palace, Sur Sagar Lake and Sayaji Baug. The hotel offers 96 spacious rooms and suites that sport modern design elements and contemporary essentials. Designed to be smart and flexible, yet warm and comfortable, all guest rooms and bathrooms are well-appointed with features such as large 55” flat screen TVs, work areas with flexible ergonomic desks and chairs, minibars and a comfortable couch that doubles up as a plush day bed, perfect for a mid-day power nap.  Enhanced public spaces feature the ‘modern calm’ aesthetic of the Fairfield by Marriott brand, which encompasses open layouts, multifunctional spaces and natural light. 

The hotel features 4192 square feet of flexible function space, suitable for meetings, conferences and social events. For travelers looking to stay fit while on the road, the hotel’s 24-hour fitness center is readily available for a workout.

“Fairfield by Marriott ensures that guests can count on The Fairfield Promise – from the hotel’s level of service to accommodations, if a guest is ever not satisfied with their stay, Fairfield will make it right. We aim to set the standards of delivering a great hotel experience at an affordable price point through consistent and reliable service,” said Sudhanshu Singh, Hotel Manager at Fairfield by Marriott Vadodara. “We look forward to welcoming business and leisure travelers to experience our warm hospitality and uplifting spaces.”

NOESIS SUCCESSFULLY FACILITATES THREE HOTEL TRANSACTIONS FOR GINGER HOTELS

NOESIS Capital Advisors, India’s leading hotel investment advisory firm in the last 2 quarters, has successfully facilitated three hotel transactions in Mumbai, Dehradun, and Agra for GINGER Hotels, an IHCL Brands. NOESIS functioned as an exclusive transaction manager for these transactions from asset identification to contract negotiations and signing. 

Mumbai Hotel consists of 104 keys strategically located near Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon. This hotel is a part of a mix-use development, scheduled to be operational by June 2022. This hotel inventory will be a big relief for exhibitors, and corporate houses within Goregaon & Malad micro markets due to limited branded hotel room supply.

Dehradun Hotel consists of 72 keys strategically located on Rajpur road. This hotel is going to be a GINGER lean luxe product, as they are part of this hotel from the planning stage. Delhi-Dehradun Economic corridor is going to improve the connectivity in the region. NOESIS negotiated a 30-year long-term lease right on the hotel for GINGER.

Agra Hotel consists of 75 keys strategically located on Fatehabad Road within 10 minutes’ drive from the iconic Taj Mahal. NOESIS negotiated 29 years & 11 months of long-term lease rights on the hotel of GINGER.

IHCL is one of NOESIS's premier clients and is quite diverse in its offering from luxury to economy segments. We wish them success with their upcoming projects and for FY22-23. 

“It has been a pleasure for the NOESIS transaction management team to represent GINGER Hotels for three consecutive transactions in Maharashtra, Uttarakhand & Uttar Pradesh. We are excited to share our vision in advising them on many more potential partnerships soon. It has been our endeavour to use our in-depth industry knowledge, hotel development & transaction completion skills in the interest of a long-term sustainable transaction. Said Nandivardhan Jain, Chief Executive Officer, NOESIS.

FY21-22 has been a brilliant fiscal year for NOESIS where we have successfully completed 100+ plus assignments ranging from Feasibility and Valuation Reports, Operator Search, Debt Syndication, Hotel buy/sell advisory, and Hotel operating company’s portfolio sale transactions. Out of these successfully completed assignments, 23 were for hotels on a variable lease/revenue share model.

Noesis is currently mandated for more than 19557 Keys for operator search and contract negotiation assignment on the franchise, management contract, and lease cum revenue sharing. Noesis is also working on a buy-side mandate for the Indian family offices, Sovereign wealth, and special situation funds to invest 3 billion dollars in distressed hospitality assets, hospitality M&A transactions, and ultra-luxury leisure and wellness assets across Asia.”

On this occasion, Mr. Puran Dawar owner of the upcoming Hotel Ginger, Agra, and Chairman of Dawar Industries, which is India’s leading footwear manufacturer and export house, said “This will be our third hospitality project in the city of Agra. We are quite bullish on Agra's market potential. In the last couple of years, Agra’s connectivity with the key cities has improved due to state-of-the-art infrastructure development. The state government's multiple initiatives to boost Agra tourism from domestic to global platforms, pro-business industrial policies and ambitious projects like the defence corridor encouraged us to invest in the Agra hospitality market. We are grateful to team NOESIS for their professional services from feasibility reports to operator selection to contract negotiation. We appreciate their valuable time-to-time input into our hospitality portfolio and their in-depth industry knowledge and expertise in hotel transactions.

About Noesis Capital Advisors:

Since its inception, Noesis Capital Advisors has provided consultancy and advisory services to more than 2100 plus hotel owners, hotel operating companies, hotel investors, and financial institutions. Its reach is in more than 60 cities of South Asia where it is servicing 68 international, national and regional hotel brands across various hotel formats ranging from ultra-luxury to economy segments. Integrated professional services like Feasibility & Valuation Study, Asset Management, Transaction Management, Debt Syndication, and Private Equity, are some of the services provided by the firm

Starting in 2009, Noesis Capital Advisors has created a niche for itself in hotels-specific real estate, with its client-focused advisory approach. Their professional and expertise-driven services have been widely sought by International and National hotel chains, Real Estate & hospitality funds, and National Developers. The firm has a diverse talent pool of professionals who have a firm grasp on the pulse of local Indian market trends with first-hand experience at the grass-root level.

With a vast range of clients, Noesis Advisors specialize in Mid-market to luxury hotels, hotels in mixed-use developments, serviced apartments, and all kind of resorts. With a broad as well as a specific approach towards hotel real estate consultancy, services differ as per clients. For hotel chains, Noesis provides strategic consulting and research, with project, property, and portfolio management. For hotel developers, consultation is more specific to auctions, capital markets, and project management. Hotel investors on the other hand are offered corporate finance, capital placement, investment sales, and valuation advisory services.

WITT to hold Conclave “Mission with A Vision” in May 2022 to Celebrate Women Empowerment: TAAI

WITT to hold Conclave “Mission with A Vision” in May 2022 to Celebrate Women Empowerment: TAAI

Women have always been an integral part of the tourism domain. Addressing the need of acknowledging the contribution of Women, the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) initiated the formation of WITT – Women in TAAI and Tourism, in 2021. The core objective behind this is to involve “Woman in Travel Tourism & Hospitality” to join hands to empower the women of India to become entrepreneurs.

While sharing the details of the newest initiative and announcing details of the upcoming Conclave to celebrate Women Empowerment, Jyoti Mayal, President said that WITT aims to leverage the Indian travel tourism and hospitality industry to empower women with the opportunity to fulfill their economic and individual potential while growing the sector. ‘This sector has a huge value chain & an unmeasurable deliverance scope, which we all definitely need to invest in. This is the first “Mission with A Vision” & we intend to hold many such in India & abroad.’ she added.

Jay Bhatia, Vice President, elaborated that, we will act as a facilitator to make women equal stakeholders in the nation's development and recognize the noteworthy contribution made by them. And, in addition, provide skill development and employability opportunities to women along with mentoring and networking workshops and events, not only in urban but rural India too.

Bettaiah Lokesh, Hon. Secretary General, informed that the current President of TAAI is also the Chairperson of the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), and hence the conclave is being organized under her leadership utilizing the strengths of both TAAI & THSC to focus on Tourism and the Skilling perspective. Lokesh stated that we intend to deliberate upon excelling and supporting the working women in the Travel, Tourism & Hospitality sector & welcome many more to join in.

Adding to the same, Shreeram Patel, Hon. Treasurer said that the Conclave will focus on both women & men, as we strongly believe there is a huge interdependence between both sexes & we need each other's support to empower women & together be powered to coexist in this society.

The Macallan Collaborates with Michelin star Chef Vineet Bhatia to curate a 12-course bespoke culinary pairing experience

The Macallan Collaborates with Michelin star Chef Vineet Bhatia to curate a 12-course bespoke culinary pairing experience

~ Incorporating the fine flavors of The Macallan Double Cask Range, this collaboration unites the best of both worlds~

Mumbai, April 2022: The Macallan, one of the world’s most sought-after single malt brands, proudly announces its creative association with renowned Michelin star Chef Vineet Bhatia, through a 12-course tasting and pairing menu. The evening hosted by Chef Vineet and Jodie Marriott - Brand Education Manager at The Macallan, witnessed guests partaking in exquisite offerings from the bespoke menu exclusively curated for this event; bringing together the symphonic mélange of Indian spices with the subtle yet distinct flavor profile of The Macallan.

Recognized for its unmatched quality and incomparable character, each of the exceptional single malts by The Macallan is a reflection of the brand’s unrivaled craftsmanship and commitment to the mastery of wood and spirit since 1824. From the signature ranges available globally to special limited release whiskies, every bottle of The Macallan comes with a rich story to tell. 

Celebrated Chef Vineet Bhatia’s tasting menu journeys through the highlands of Scotland, harmoniously uniting two worlds onto one plate. Through the beautiful marriage of classic The Macallan style and the unmistakable sweetness of American oak and European oak casks, paired impeccably well with the decadence of Indian spices and aromas. Chef Vineet aptly embodies the essence of “Crafted Without Compromise” which lies at the heart of what The Macallan stands for.  

Through his exclusive menu, he explores the versatility of The Macallan Double Cask Range by incorporating them into classic Indian desserts like The Macallan Rabdi, The Macallan Jalebi, and refreshingly innovative - The Macallan Ginger Granita with Pomegranate Jelly. This collaboration and the menu that is born out of it is the perfect metaphor for the journey The Macallan has had and is a testament to the brand’s ethos.

Chef Vineet Bhatia, one of the first Indian chefs to have been awarded the Michelin Star reflects on his association with The Macallan, as he says, “Coming back to India and curating this menu for The Macallan was truly an introspective experience and made me reflect on my own experience as a chef. From learning how to experiment with local Indian spices to now owning 8 restaurants worldwide, this collaboration is even more special as it takes place at Ziya, where I started my career. It truly is a full-circle moment for me! It’s delightful to associate myself with a brand with a history like The Macallan which focuses on fine flavor, and their mastery & dedication to perfection is truly unparalleled. Bringing The Macallan and its unmatched perfection to India through my menu is a testament to the global identity of Indian food and this collaboration is the perfect union of Scottish and Indian aesthetic influences.”

Against the backdrop of Ziya at The Oberoi, this creative association truly reflected the epitome of “East meets West”. The Scottish heritage of The Macallan was further elevated by Chef Vineet Bhatia’s flair. Jodie Marriott, Brand Education Manager at The Macallan shares, “Chef Vineet Bhatia is the epitome of Indian sensibilities & global versatility and brings with him his signature flair and immense talent that perfectly complements the essence of The Macallan. Chef Vineet shares The Macallan’s values of creativity, craftsmanship, and dedication to the continuous pursuit of perfection. It is an honor to be collaborating with him to bring the best of two worlds to life in Mumbai.”

About The Macallan

Founded in 1824 in the heart of Speyside, The Macallan was one of the first distilleries in Scotland to be legally licensed. Since then it has built a reputation as one of the world’s leading single malt whiskies. The creation of The Macallan draws on the vital contributing influences of Spain, North America, and Scotland, and their retrospective natural raw materials, combined with traditional methods and craftsmanship.

From its founding, through the subsequent owners of The Macallan distillery in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and into the present century, The Macallan has been recognized for its outstanding quality above all else. 

The reputation of the Macallan has been built on the exceptional oak casks for which The Macallan is world-renowned. Sourced, crafted, toasted, and seasoned under the watchful eye of The Macallan Master of Wood, the hand-picked casks are delivered to the demanding specifications of The Macallan Master Distiller. It is the ancient oak that makes the single greatest contribution to the natural color and distinctive aromas and flavors at the heart of this revered single malt whisky.

AWARD | Hilton Goa Resort Wins Two Prestigious International Awards for Excellence in Hospitality

Hilton Goa Resort Wins Two Prestigious International Awards for Excellence in Hospitality

Goa,April 2022: Hotel Critics and Bloggers Association (HCBA) is a leading name amongst the Hotel reviewers, critics, and hospitality bloggers. In a private ceremony, Hilton Goa Resort was awarded the International Award for Excellence in Hospitality (GOA) with Mr. Amandeep Singh Grover winning the Best General Manager of GOA award in the Luxury segment. 

Speaking on this occasion, Amandeep Singh Grover, the General Manager of Hilton Goa Resort expresses his gratitude and said, “We are honored to receive these prestigious awards from HCBA. We believe this will stren gthen our position in the market as this recognition encourages our team to exceed our guests’ expectations. In the hospitality industry, it is all about creating the right experiences and Hilton Goa Resort endeavors to constantly improve ourselves to offer guests Hilton’s signature hospitality.”

With these awards, the resort received recognition for its exemplary performance and contribution to the hospitality sector. Furthermore, Hilton Goa Resort was recently awarded the Best All Day Dining Restaurant for their outlet @Saipe in the Premium Category for the Times Food Nightlife Award Goa 2022, bagging the award twice in a row.

About Hilton Goa Resort :

Located at the prime location of North Goa, the luxurious Hilton Goa Resort is a hilltop property that has a calming view of the Nerul River and overlooks the lush greenery. Offering 104 beautiful guest rooms with exclusive private balconies, delectable dining options, the property is loaded with amenities. A cozy bar and a coffee lounge with a spectacular view make an ideal spot for locals to hang out. The Kids’ club and 24-hour fitness center make it perfect for long business guests and the 4 outdoor swimming pools, including a dedicated kids’ pool, add charm to this property. With versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces and being closer to the Candolim beach, Hilton Goa Resort offers the perfect setting for vacations.

RAS AL KHAIMAH TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MAKES WAVES AT THE 2022 INDIA ROADSHOW

RAS AL KHAIMAH TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MAKES WAVES AT THE 2022 INDIA ROADSHOW

New Delhi, 11 April 2022: Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, representing the Northern Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates, held a 2-city roadshow in India. The 4-day networking event in Delhi and Mumbai received an overwhelming response with over 400 travel trade, MICE, wedding specialists and leading media. The 2022 Roadshow successfully showcased key highlights and upcoming tourism developments in Ras Al Khaimah that will help facilitate additional traveller demand from India.

The event kicked off in New Delhi on April 4th followed by Mumbai on April 7th where the tourism authority delegation, led by Iyad Rasbey, Executive Director, Destination Tourism Development at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, met business partners and media.

Commenting on this year’s roadshow, Iyad Rasbey said “It was great to reconnect with our travel partners in India since the start of the pandemic. India is a very viable and highly valued travel market; last year alone it was the third largest international source market for Ras Al Khaimah, welcoming over 30,000 visitors. This is considerable given that the Indian market was largely closed or restricted last year. We aim to increase this and go back to pre-pandemic tourism numbers through promotional activities geared towards leisure travellers and incentives targeting MICE, destination weddings and other celebrations.”

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority announced a tourism strategy that will see the destination become the regional leader in sustainable tourism by 2025. It maps out key steps for the Emirate to secure long-term sustainability that will drive overall tourism growth objectives and contribute directly to national and international climate change and environmental policy commitments. An investment of USD $134 million is geared towards 20 sustainable tourism developments across the Emirate especially on Jebel Jais where our projects have been designed to not just protect the mountain ecosystem, but to enhance it. By creating attractions that preserve the Emirate’s culture and local communities, guests will be able to enjoy authentic experiences that will see them leaving a positive impact in Ras Al Khaimah when visiting.

On new and upcoming destination attractions in 2022, the Jais Sledder, the region’s longest toboggan ride were highlighted amongst a line-up of upcoming enhancements on Jebel Jais like the Jais Wings (paragliding) and Jais Mountain eco-golf. New sustainable accommodation includes Earth Altitude, an eco-based pop-up hotel concept and Cloud7 Camp Jebel Jais, the ultimate sustainable glamping experience. In addition, a brand-new tethered hot air ballooning experience in Manar mall, RAK airventure, which will offer panoramic views of the city above the beautiful mangroves and a Scallop Ranch at Al Hamra Marine will offer oyster/scallop diving, live cooking, family and kids’ experiences, and cultural activations.

Expanding the destination’s portfolio of world-class hotels, the Emirate recently welcomed the opening of InterContinental Mina Al Arab with 351 rooms, the largest Hampton by Hilton globally, with more than 500 rooms and Radisson Al Marjan Island with 388 rooms. Operated by global hospitality brands, a series of new hotels and resorts will be launched across the Emirate over the next three years including Marriott, Movenpick, Anantara, Sofitel and Conrad, adding 3,525 keys to the current 7,720 keys in Ras Al Khaimah.

About Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA)

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) was established in May 2011 under the government of Ras Al Khaimah. RAKTDA aims to develop the Emirate’s tourism infrastructure and establish Ras Al Khaimah as a world-class destination for leisure and business travel, creating sustainable investment opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. In order to achieve its goals, the Authority has a government mandate to license, regulate and monitor the Emirate’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Novotel Hyderabad Airport indulges guests in a blissful Yoga session with Rina Hindocha

Novotel Hyderabad Airport indulges guests in a blissful Yoga session with Rina Hindocha

Hyderabad: April 2022: Novotel Hyderabad Airport on World Health Day had organized a Yoga and Wellness session for its Loyalty Members and guests from Hyderabad. The program was hosted by renowned and qualified Yoga and Fitness Instructor Ms. Rina Hindocha. The objective was to promote wellness and improve one’s mental well-being.

The Yoga session progressed with Ms. Hindocha teaching basic asanas and various other yoga postures that aim to keep the body healthy. The session was followed by a delectable spread of hi-tea. The menu consisted of healthy and immunity-boosting….. foods. The guests were seen relaxing, networking, and having a great time.

Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Rubin Cherian, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Airport said, “We are delighted to curate this session of early morning yoga at our property on the occasion of World Health Day for our guests and members. We thank Ms. Rina Hindocha for associating with us for this truly refreshing yoga session. We look forward to organizing more such events to inspire our guests and associates to prioritize their well-being. With the current scenario and high level of stress, this session provided peace of mind and a focus to claim a healthier, happier and more fulfilling way of living”

TAAI postpones its 66th Convention, which was scheduled in Colombo, Sri Lanka to a future date

TAAI postpones its 66th Convention, which was scheduled in Colombo, Sri Lanka to a future date

This is to update on the 66th Convention & Exhibition of TAAI, which was scheduled to be held from 19-22 April 2022, in Colombo Sri Lanka, which has been postponed.

Jyoti Mayal, President, TAAI states that, “We had an overwhelming response to the convention registrations which had crossed the 500-registration mark. Sri Lankan Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) and Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO), along with Sri Lankan Airlines and, the Hotels in Colombo, were eager to host us for the convention, as was TAAI.

The current economic and political situation in the island nation, whereby there is a shortage of fuel, power, gas, the daily consumer needs along with the political unrest and treason in parts of the country, has compelled us to postpone the convention in Colombo. Tourism is always the first to be hit at the outset of any crisis, but we continue to stand strong & committed to our counterparts in Sri Lanka to revive tourism as soon as the opportunity arises by rescheduling the convention, she added.

We received numerous calls, and communications from our member delegates, invitees & stakeholders that the sentiment to travel to Sri Lanka at this time would not only burden our Sri Lankan friends but also on the uncertainty on the hosting of the convention in Colombo, added Jay Bhatia, Vice President, TAAI.

TAAI is in constant touch with the stakeholder partners and the hosts in Sri Lanka who continue to assuring their fullest support to hold the 66th Convention.

Bettaiah Lokesh, HSG, TAAI stated that “as per the feedback and suggestions received, the Managing Committee of TAAI has decided to postpone the 66th Convention, which was to be held from 19th-22nd April 2022 in Colombo Sri Lanka, to a future date, which shall be communicated to all in due course, once the situation in Sri Lanka regularises.”

We have always maintained that Tourism is a catalyst that bridges the gap between nations and economies, and we assure you all that as soon as the situation in Sri Lanka comes back to normal, new dates for a grander convention shall be announced in Association with SLTPB and SLAITO, stated Shreeram Patel, Hon. National Treasurer of TAAI.

Iconic Global Coffee brand Tim Hortons® set to enter India in 2022

Canada’s most loved coffee brand to open 250+ restaurants across the country over the next five years.

India, March 2022: Tim Hortons®, an iconic coffee brand established in 1964 in Canada, will enter India as part of an exclusive agreement with AG Café, a joint venture entity owned by Apparel Group, a global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate and Gateway Partners, an emerging markets alternative investment manager.

Popular for its freshly prepared iconic beverages like the smooth and creamy 'French Vanilla' and its creamy blended frozen coffee, the 'Iced Capp®' along with made-to-order food and baked goods offerings, like the delicious bite-sized morsels of traditional donuts called 'Timbits®’, Tim Hortons will open in New Delhi this year, quickly followed by Punjab and other parts of the country. With over 50 years of coffee expertise, the brand has captured the hearts and taste buds of many.

India is one of the world's fastest-growing markets for speciality coffee retail chains. The growth can be attributed to the changing lifestyle of the young population, rising disposable income, and a keenness to explore global experiences. With this launch, India will become the brand's fourth country in the Asia Pacific region, and plans to open over two hundred and fifty outlets over the next five years.

"We are thrilled to be bringing Tim Hortons to India, with Apparel Group and Gateway Partners. India is known for taking its beverages and food very seriously," said David Shear, President, RBI International,  parent company of Tim Hortons. "The delicious premium quality coffee and fresh food that guests around the world have grown to crave from Tim Hortons will be coming to India, marking this launch as a critical step in our international expansion plans."

Tim Hortons India will be led by Navin Gurnaney, an experienced and reputed professional who will serve as the  company’s India CEO. He was previously the CEO for Starbucks India.  Speaking on the announcement, Navin Gurnaney said, "We are very happy to bring Tim Hortons, a global café brand, to our guests in India. The launch will lead to major investments in market-leading talent and innovation, creating new jobs and providing a direct boost to the hospitality sector. We are excited ahead of this launch and we look forward to bringing the best of the café experience to Indians.”

Speaking  on the announcement, Nilesh Ved, Chairman & CEO, Apparel Group said, "The food and beverage sector is seeing a revival after a long period of covid-induced lull, and we see this as the most opportune time to introduce a new brand and have an aggressive plan to cater to the demand. As a global company with proven capabilities worldwide, we are happy to bring the Tim Hortons experience to India.”

V. Shankar, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Gateway Partners, said, "This exciting new venture builds on our existing strong partnership with Apparel Group, and the India venture has the promise and the potential to be a true “game-changer”. It is also aligned with Gateway's approach of investing in well-established market leaders who cater to core consumption needs. I cannot wait to have a cup of Tim Hortons coffee when we open in New Delhi". 

Tim Hortons is Canada’s largest restaurant chain operating in the café industry, and international expansion has become an increasing priority for the brand. Over recent years the brand has introduced its well-loved offerings to guests beyond Canada and the United States. Currently Tim Hortons has over 5,100 restaurants across 13 countries and growing, including the Middle East, China, the UK, Mexico, Spain, Thailand and Philippines.

Qatar Tourism has rounded up some of the leading attractions to visit outside Doha

Top 10 unique day trips from Qatar’s capital

• Qatar Tourism has rounded up some of the leading attractions to visit outside Doha

• Iconic sites and hidden treasures are never more than 90 minutes away

28 March 2022: Qatar Tourism is calling on holidaymakers and fans attending the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ to take a day trip out of Doha and discover Qatar beyond the capital.

Within the 90-minutes it takes to play a football match, visitors can leave Doha for amazing adventures in mesmerising desert dunes, UNESCO heritage sites, ancient rock carvings, water parks, golden beaches, eco farms, lush green mangrove forests and so much more.

Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism, Berthold Trenkel, said: “Just a stone’s throw from Doha are fantastic cultural, natural and family-friendly excursions that some visitors might miss. We’re more than just a city and we want the world to discover the hidden treasures strewn across our peninsula. The beauty of a holiday here is the compactness of diverse experiences, with all our iconic attractions never more than a 90-minute drive away – or the time it takes to watch a World Cup match. For anyone staying in the country for longer than 24 hours, a day trip out of Doha is a delightful highlight of a holiday in Qatar.”

Here are 10 of the top out-of-Doha day trips rounded up by Qatar Tourism:

Banana Island Resort

The glistening crescent-shaped Banana Island is accessible by boat only. A 25-minute journey from Al Shyoukh Terminal in downtown Doha, the island beach offers an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Guests can travel for the day or stay overnight at Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, featuring a lagoon pool, spa, golf court, cinema, and several restaurants. 

Distance from Doha: 25 minutes

Heenat Salma Farm

Fans of organic, natural produce should visit Heenat Salma Farm for an eco-conscious experience. A working agricultural farm that grows more than 30 different crops, fruits and vegetables, and produces dairy, eggs, honey and meat, Heenat Salma is a centre for hospitality, education and wellbeing. Visitors can stay overnight in traditional tents positioned around a central fire, which instils a sense of community. There is a pool, wellness room, library and a kitchen where chefs prepare simple, healthy, nourishing meals.

Distance from Doha: 40 minutes 
Purple Island 

Bin Ghannam Island, popularly known as Purple Island, is a hidden gem famous for its abundance of mangroves. The island’s association with purple comes from an ancient Kassite-controlled dye industry, which started more than two thousand years ago, when the color was coveted by Roman royalty for their clothing. Sunset is an opportune time to visit Purple Island: go kayaking, or hike around the island to scout the perfect sunset spot for photos.  

Distance from Doha: 45 minutes

Baladna Park

A green refuge on the outskirts of Doha, Baladna Park is a fun-filled family day out with a children’s adventure land, bumper boats, a petting zoo and reptile cave. The park is run by Baladna Farm, a 100% Qatari business that is one of the largest cattle farms in region, and it provides fresh milk and dairy products to Qatar’s restaurants and residents. The farm is also open to members of the public, who can discover the milking process in purpose-built farms that protect animals from harsh changes in climate.

Distance from Doha: 45 minutes 

Dhal Al Misfir cave

One of the country’s most exciting natural sites, the 40-metre-deep Dahl Al Misfir is considered the largest accessible cave in Qatar. Estimated to have been formed around 300,000-500,000 years ago, the cave emits an otherworldly moon-like glow due to gypsum despots in the center of the peninsula. These same minerals give rise to ‘desert roses’ – clusters of crystals that inspired Jean Nouvel in his iconic design of the National Museum of Qatar.

Distance from Doha: 55 minutes 

Al Jassasiya Rock Carvings

Nobody quite knows when these nearly 900 carvings, known as ‘petroglyphs’, were created. Discovered in 1957, the distinct carvings feature shapes including fish, ostriches, dhow boats and cup marks, across a 700-metre area. Some suggest the art dates back more than 2,000 years, others put the date at just a few centuries ago. Either way, the carvings offer a tantalising glimpse into an ancient past and are Qatar’s most exciting enigma.

Distance from Doha: 1 hour 

Al Zubarah Fort

Qatar’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Zubarah Fort is a pristine example of a traditional Arabic fortress. The walls overlook the ruins of a once bustling pearling town that saw fierce tribal battles as powerful empires fought for regional dominance. Visitors who head up to the site will find a museum with artefacts from this historical era, including cannonballs, coins and the weights used by pearl divers who used to plunge down 14 metres to search among thousands of oysters before finding that one rare gem. On the way to Al Zubarah are the remains of the ghost town of Al Jumail, which offers another fascinating glimpse into Qatar’s humble past.

Distance from Doha: 1 hour 15 minutes 

Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas

On Qatar’s southwestern tip is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. A nirvana for lovers of sun, sea and sand, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort has 3.5 kilometres of soft white beaches and landscaped gardens. Within the grounds is one of the largest theme parks in the Middle East, Desert Falls. The park features 18 attractions, with 56 rides and slides, from the Sea Caves Water Park to the Desert Street Circuit Go Karting.

Distance from Doha: 1 hour 20 minutes 

East-West / West-East

Richard Serra’s breath-taking public art installation in the Qatari desert comprises four 14-metre-high steel plates spread out over a kilometer. Pictures of the striking display routinely set Instagram accounts alight, as the pillars stand in stark contrast to the soft brown hues of the surrounding desert. Also in the area is the Umbrella Rock Mountain, Zekreet Fort, and the abandoned film set known as Film City, all worth a quick look. 

Distance from Doha: 1 hour 20 minutes 

Inland Sea

There are rare few places in the world where desert dunes greet the shores of the sea. The spectacular ‘Inland Sea’. or Khor Al Adaid, in the south of Qatar is one, and those with an afternoon to spare should seriously consider visiting, accessible only by 4x4 vehicles. Visitors should coincide their excursion with the sunset or sunrise for the best photos, and keep an eye out for turtles, the Arabian oryx and flamingos, before taking a dip in the warm sea waters. 

Distance from Doha: 1 hour 30 minutes 

Budding artists celebrate uniqueness of Indian cities with KFC’s #BucketCanvas

Mark the brand’s milestone of 600 restaurants with a unique bucket design for various city

National, April 2022: Celebrating the brand’s signature taste offered across the country and reinforcing its runway for growth, KFC India marked the milestone of growing 600 restaurants strong with the #KFCBucketCanvas campaign. The campaign brought together young artists from across the country who together, transformed the iconic KFC Bucket into the #KFCBucketCanvas, with a unique design for each city where the brand has a presence. Drawing inspiration from the art, architecture, and cultural elements of different cities, these 150 limited edition designs are on display across restaurants. Fans can now cheer for the KFC in their city and appreciate the nuanced designs when they next step into a KFC restaurant closest to them; as well as learn about the artists and their inspiration here.

Speaking about this interesting display of art on the KFC Bucket, Moksh Chopra, Chief Marketing Officer, KFC India said, “It’s been an amazing journey for KFC in India, with the brand now present across 150+ cities and crossing 600 restaurants. So, what better way for us to mark this moment, by partnering with young, upcoming artists across the length and breadth of our country. The iconic KFC Bucket served as a Canvas for them to showcase their talent and bring alive the uniqueness of the different regions of India with 150 unique designs. We’re blown away with the talent that’s emerged, and we’re privileged to be able to provide a visibility opportunity to such fabulous new talent. I would encourage you to look up these wonderful creations (at our respective restaurants or online)”.

The journey began with the artists exploring different cities, scanning through popular landmarks, walking through narrow lanes, interacting with its offerings of food, people, language and culture – essentially catching the pulse of the city. All this and more, was then brought alive on the KFC Bucket, painted with much (KFC) love of course. From Nagpur’s famous oranges to Darjeeling’s coniferous trees and toy train; from Kolkata’s landmark bridge to Coimbatore’s lush green banana plantations – each Bucket design is a masterpiece. And you needn’t fret about missing out on designs of cities apart from your own. While you are admiring the Bucket Canvas design in your city, simply scan the QR code displayed at the bottom that leads to a microsite where all 150 designs are displayed. Here you can also learn more about the talented artists, understand what inspired & moved them to create their design and admire their Bucket design. Additionally, you could follow KFC India’s Instagram page to know more about the Bucket Canvas campaign and keep up with the conversations around it.

About KFC

KFC, a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM.), is a global chicken restaurant brand with a rich, decades-long history of success and innovation. It all started with one cook, Colonel Harland Sanders, who created a finger lickin’ good recipe more than 75 years ago, a list of secret herbs and spices scratched out on the back of the door to his kitchen. Today we still follow his formula for success, with real cooks breading and freshly preparing our delicious chicken by hand in more than 25,000 restaurants in over 145 countries and territories around the world.

Indians Planning to Spend More by Adopting the ‘New Normal with More Purpose’ - American Express Travel: 2022 Global Travel Trends Report

Indians Planning to Spend More by Adopting the ‘New Normal with More Purpose’ - American Express Travel: 2022 Global Travel Trends Report

• 93% of Indian respondents are planning to spend more or the same on travel in 2022 compared to a typical pre-pandemic year.

• 96% of Indian respondents like to shop and eat at local businesses while traveling to support the local community.

• Top motivators for traveling – relaxation, new experiences, and new destinations.

New Delhi, March 2022: With 93% of Indians planning to spend more or the same on travel in 2022 compared to a typical pre-pandemic year and 96% agreeing they like to eat and shop at local businesses to support the local economy, Indian travelers are looking to adopt the new normal with more purpose as per the American Express Travel: Global Travel Trends Report1,  The survey report, based on data from seven countries including the United States, Australia, India, Canada, Mexico, Japan, and the United Kingdom further reveals that the motivation to travel for 48% Indians is for discovering new experiences, 46% for relaxing and 45% for exploring new destinations. 

Overall, Indians think 2022 will be a better year for planning travel with most of the respondents saying travel will be less stressful this year than in 2021 and many are looking forward to regaining control over their trips in 2022 after feeling overwhelmed last year. The report also shows that like its counterparts, Indians are also traveling to see the people and places they love, celebrate important life events, embark on wish list trips, experience in-person events, and seek greater wellness and self-care. Highest amongst all the other surveyed countries, 91% of surveyed Indians agree they will book a dream vacation in 2022 which they normally would not have considered before the pandemic while 87% want to book a once-in-a-lifetime vacation in 2022. 

Talking about the travel trends in India, Manoj Adlakha, SVP and CEO, American Express Banking Corp., India said, “After two tough years, the travel sentiment amongst Indian travelers is upbeat where spending time with loved ones is a top priority. Our travel trends report shares that to make the most of the lost time, 94% of respondents agree they plan to travel more with family in 2022 than they did in 2021 while 89% shared that they are interested in multi-generational family trips than ever before.”

He further added, “With the resumption of all regular international flights and the upcoming summer holiday season, we are seeing a surge in travel bookings amongst our Cardmembers for both international and domestic travel. To make new memories, Indians are mostly booking vacations with their families and preferring experiences that support the local communities revive from the impact of the pandemic.”

Key insights from the American Express Travel: 2022 Global Travel Trends Report1 for the Indian respondents include:

1. Indians are ready to travel and spend more: 92% agree that they are willing to book a trip for 2022 even if they might have to cancel or modify it later. Nearly all surveyed Indians plan on taking a trip in 2022 with nearly a fourth saying they will take two vacations, and a fifth saying three vacations during the year. 94% of respondents plan to spend more on international travel in 2022 than they did in the previous year.

1. Impact and purpose-driven travel on the mind of Indian travelers: The majority agree they want to have a positive impact on the community they are visiting and want to travel to destinations where they can immerse themselves in the local culture. Traveling responsibly is of high importance for the respondents as 94% stated they would take a 'presentation' and 93% are more likely to book travel with a brand that is committed to improving its environmental impact, ranking highest than their global counterparts.

1. Dream destinations are becoming a reality: Thinking about 2022 travel, 69% of respondents agree they want to travel to their dream destination this year. Five in ten respondents shared they are willing to travel solo now to visit their dream destination. Asia is the number one choice Indians want to explore in 2022 when thinking of their dream destination, and within Asia, exploring different cities within India itself remained the preferred choice for 51% of respondents.

1. Multiple activities, in-person events, and luxury drive choice of vacations and destinations: 94% of respondents prefer to visit destinations that have access to more than one scene (e.g., beach, city, mountain, desert, etc.) while 91% are interested in cultural immersion and all-inclusive luxury travel resorts than before the pandemic. 89% of consumers held off on traveling for major entertainment events last year but have plans to return to these types of events this year.

As travel momentum continues to grow, American Express provides unique offers and benefits for its Cardmembers to make the most of their travel.

The full American Express Travel: 2022 Global Travel Trends Report can be found here.

1 Survey Methodology: This Amex Trendex online poll was conducted by Morning Consult between February 3- 11th, 2022 among a national sample of 2,000 US and 1,000 travelers in Australia, Canada, India, Japan, Mexico, the UK, and the US who have a household income of at least $70K and defined as adults who typically travel by air at least once a year. Results from each market’s survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.

ABOUT AMERICAN EXPRESS

American Express is a globally integrated payments company, providing customers with access to products, insights, and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at americanexpress.com and connect with us on facebook.com/americanexpress, instagram.com/americanexpress, linkedin.com/company/american-express, twitter.com/americanexpress, and youtube.com/americanexpress.

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre associates with Alliance Française to present Bonjour India 2022

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre associates with Alliance Française to present Bonjour India 2022

A Showcase of “French art, culture and science extravaganza”
Hyderabad: April 2022: Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre in association with Alliance Francaise de Hyderabad present the first event under the national festival “Bonjour India 2022” a French art, culture, and science extravaganza, a gift from France to India on Our 75th year of Independence. The event was inaugurated by Mr. Jayesh Ranjan Principal Secretary of the Industries & Commerce (I&C) and Information Technology (IT) Departments of the Telangana Government & Mr. Emmanuel Lebrun-Damiens – Counsellor of Culture, Education and Science Embassy of France in India and Director of the French Institute in India along with Dr. Samuel Berthet, Director Alliance Française de Hyderabad & Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre.

As a part of the initiative, the hotel showcased the movie DÉLICIEUX, (DELICIOUS) to its guests at their beautiful lawns by the poolside. Delicious is the story of the first restaurant in France pre-revolution era. The Festival is presented by the French Embassy in India, and the network of Alliance Française to patronize French art and culture. The movie was well attended and people were seen having a great time.

As a part of Bonjour India, 2022 Alliance Française of Hyderabad will be hosting top-notch events in the City of Pearls for its beautiful citizens and the international diaspora from April to June 2022. The event was kick-started by showcasing a masterpiece from French Cinema DÉLICIEUX, (DELICIOUS).

 Speaking on the occasion Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre said “Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre is extremely proud to be associated with Alliance Française for Bonjour India 2022. We are thrilled to host the masterpiece from French cinema which has showcased the pre-revolution era in France.  Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre has always been promoting art and culture and this association is a reiteration of our commitment and belief in supporting French art, culture, and extravaganza.  The Alliance Francaise has done some great work in Hyderabad and has been instrumental in showcasing the French culture to people.” 

VRO Hospitality on an aggressive expansion drive with Café Noir Targets 15 new outlets including one in Dubai

VRO Hospitality on an aggressive expansion drive with Café Noir Targets 15 new outlets including one in Dubai 

• VRO plans to take Café Noir to Kochi, Chennai, and Kolkata

• VRO to take up 30,000 sqft for Café Noir’s expansion in India

New Delhi, April 2022: India’s fastest-growing hospitality chain VRO Hospitality is on an expansion drive with its iconic and popular French café brand Café Noir across the country. The Bengaluru headquartered group, which owns around 10 popular fine-dining brands and cloud kitchens, is on a mission to open 15 new outlets of Café Noir and venture into new markets like Kochi, Chennai, and Kolkata and create its first international imprint in Dubai. 

The six-month expansion drive will start from April 2022. With the expansion, VRO Hospitality will be increasing the number of Café Noir outlets to 21. Synonymous with French cuisine in Bengaluru, Café Noir’s first outlet came up in the city’s posh shopping destination UB City more than a decade ago. Café Noir currently boasts five outlets in Bengaluru and one in Mumbai, which was opened late last year. 

VRO’s expansion plan is in line with the group’s aim to position Café Noir as a pan-India niche French café chain. Out of the 15 planned new outlets, Kochi will have one, Chennai four, Kolkata four, and Bengaluru will have seven new outlets. Café Noir will also be VRO’s first venture outside India and it would be coming up at Jumeriah in Dubai. Overall, VRO Hospitality is planning to take 30,000 sqft on rent for Café Noir’s expansion across different markets in India and 10,000 sqft in Dubai. 

Commenting on the expansion plan, Dawn Thomas, CEO & Co-Founder, VRO Hospitality, said: “This year we are embarking on an exciting journey to take our iconic French café brand Café Noir to new markets, including an international destination. This is in line with our ambition of making VRO Hospitality a pan-India brand. Last year as a group we ventured out of Bengaluru for the first time by launching Café Noir in Mumbai in October 2021. Since then, the response has been fabulous. It has become a favorite spot for guests seeking a wholesome French cuisine and a relaxed dining experience. We would be extending our footprints in Kochi, Chennai, and Kolkata and in Dubai as we aggressively chase growth and profitability.”

An excited Sharath Rice, Director & Co-Founder, VRO Hospitality, said: “The expansion of Café Noir will allow us to offer a diverse set of food connoisseurs some of the best in French cuisines. Café Noir has already set a benchmark in the dining experience, and we will continue to do so in the new markets where we would be setting up our outlets.” 

Originally started by Frenchman Thierry Jasserand a decade ago in Bengaluru, Café Noir became legendary for its bakes, coffees & breakfast. However, in 2020, Thierry decided to return home, which is also when VRO Hospitality took over this quaint coffee place. The cafe also has a new culinary director, Daniel Koshy, who comes with nearly three decades of experience, and is a magician in terms of baking.

About VRO Hospitality

One of the fastest-growing hospitality companies based out of Bangalore, VRO Hospitality owns upscale bars and restaurants in the city. It currently operates 10 fine dining brands and cloud kitchens. Some of its popular brands include Badmaash Lounge, Hangover, Plan B, Nevermind, Cafe Noir, Taki Taki and Tycoons.