WB Hotels raises 40 million for the brand's development and growth

WB Hotels, India’s number 1 online tech-based hotel brand has raised INR 40 million from its existing investors and will be using the funds to enter new markets, strengthen senior leadership roles, and towards skill upgradation, AIML & RPA-based tech development. The brand is also eyeing to join the coveted 1 Lakh club by taking 1,00,000 rooms under their wing by 2023. This pioneering fraternity under the leadership of Chandan Pandey, Co-Founder & CEO and Aman Gupta, Founder hopes to provide support with HR, finance, and technology to every budget friendly hotel in the country. 

This revolutionary travel-tech company currently has 950+ Hotels, 20,000 + Rooms, 27+ States, and 150+ locations growing by the minute. Set out to optimize the online revenue of co-branded hotels, WB is an ingenious solution to tackle problems like losses in revenue, rising costs, and customer acquisition troubles. In addition to this, the brand also offers unique services that propel occupancy and efficiency with high-end technology. They have further eased this process by offering the hotel owners an opportunity to join WB Hotels without any joining fee.

WB has unique brand-level agreements with leading OTAs to help hotels with high-quality listings along with the skills and technology for improved visibility. In the WB program, all hotels are optimized with high-end technology to increase occupancy. It also provides real-time dynamic pricing and inventory management systems to achieve rate parity. These state-of-the-art features make the WB project an outstanding one. The start-up also plans to go public in the next four to five years. 

Sharing his vision and thoughts, Chandan Pandey, Co-Founder & CEO said, “WB hotels’ technology will resolve the real time problems of budget hotels. Since all the latest technology is beyond the reach of budget hotel owners, we are here to make them a part of the fastest growing travel technology revolution. The brand also boasts its own mobile app & websites to make hotel reservations effortlessly with the help of Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning based rate fetching technology.”

WB is now everywhere. From the countryside abode of Hotel Vinit s by WB in Bhagalpur, Bihar to the hustle and bustle of Hotel Skyhy by WB in Hyderabad. From the serene scenes of Hotel Sahil by WB in Jammu to the holy place in Samastipur Kailash Inn by WB. The brand aims to connect beautiful people to beautiful places by globalizing incredible local hospitality.

Redline DJs feat. Dreamstates, OX7GEN, Rafiki, Tarqeeb and Zokhuma to headline jagged breakbeat and burgeoning techno at antiSOCIAL

Redline DJs feat. Dreamstates, OX7GEN, Rafiki, Tarqeeb and Zokhuma to headline jagged breakbeat and burgeoning techno at antiSOCIAL this Saturday, 24th September 2022

Mumbai, 24th September 2022: This Saturday night, make no other plans as the city’s most prolific DJs come together for a crash course rooted in five deeply distinctive styles of curation, as well as the magic that is their unique collective chemistry at antiSOCIAL this saturday, 9 pm onwards!

Redline DJs is a collective comprising Dreamstates, OX7GEN, Rafiki, Tarqeeb and Zokhuma and are born from the hazy recesses of the after (after) party. Groove to the rawest form of electronic with OX7GEN, Rafiki, Tarqeeb as they represent a formidable tag team of sounds ranging from jagged breakbeat, burgeoning techno, hardcore jungle and everything in between.

If you ain’t redlining, you ain’t headlining! Come and enjoy with your gang as Redline brings to you some of the most experimental music.

Dreamstates Patently undaunted by the limitations of genre, Mumbai-based dreamstates’ approach to music selection is but a natural furtherance of his wide listening habits, habits that have been in a state of positive flux for nearly two decades. That he would make for one of the Indian underground’s in-demand DJs this early into his professional career would have been a cautious punt even for an 18-year-old Dharam Saraviya circa 2007 as he cut his teeth playing rhythm guitar in thrash and punk bands.\A deep curiosity and a ravenous thirst for musical knowledge guides his hands on the ones-and-twos, and whether it’s emotional breaks, electro, or garage oozing out the speakers, the signature sound invariably breaks through the mix. As a resident DJ on Boxout.FM, India’s only online community radio station devoted to alternative music, D hosts a monthly show titled ‘Cosmic Claps’.

Rafiki

Rafiki is the alter ego of Sohail Arora, founder of KRUNK, which represents some of the most cutting- edge bands & electronic DJ's / producers outta India. Rafiki pushes the best in cutting edge Acid, Breaks, Electro and blurring the lines between House and Techno infused with heavy bass lines. He has cultivated a deserving reputation as someone with an eclectic taste in music from across the globe, no matter whether he is playing it or making it.

Tarqeeb

An instinctive approach to multiple mediums defines digital artist and music producer Tarqeeb’s philosophy. Dedicated to building and showcasing an internationally relevant Indian sound minus the cliches he’s using every avenue available to him to point larger audiences in a direction he hopes will be part of our future. These include tightly-tailored DJ sets —think everything from deep meditative dubstep/jungle to indian electronica—hosting a monthly radio show Juggernaut for boxout.fm and his role in DASTA, a six-person artist collective that is bent on inspiring DIY approaches to growth and empowerment through the arts. His rising acclaim has only been further solidified by large-scale appreciation for his unusual, sometimes-surreal digital art. Despite humble beginnings within the medium two years ago, he has since gone on to conceptualise and create poster, album and logo art for local artists like Oceantied, Nanok, Paraphoniks, Profound, Dasta, Dualist Inquiry and Sandunes, as well as international labels like System Music (UK) & Studio Rockers(UK). In many ways, Tarqeeb remains an individual's experiment to link art, music and learning together to form its own microcosm.

Zokhuma

At the bleeding edge of his own futureZokhuma(Arman Menzies) represents the end of old things,the beginning of new ones, and a forged alliance with those making alternative electronic musicin previously unchartedterritories.This 29-year-old maverick has a mask for every occasion. Well known in the cult progressivemetal circles in India for his earlier work for Goddess Gagged before moving on to study musicproduction in the UK; he’s already performed in places like Croatia, Netherlands, UK and SriLanka while cherry-picking his way through local gigs & festivals as well.Unafraid to crisscross between soundscapes you’ve never heard—think frantic, chopped-upAfrican beats or moodier experimental electronica anddisco; his sensibilities have a way of puttingany audience at ease. Asdoes his infectious energy behind the console

Event: Redline DJs feat. Dreamstates, OX7GEN, Rafiki, Tarqeeb and Zokhuma

Venue: AntiSOCIAL

Date: 24th September 2022

Time: 9 pm onwards

Entry: Rs. 800

Booking Link: https://insider.in/redline-djs-feat-dreamstates-ox7gen-rafiki-tarqeeb-zokhuma-antisocial-mumbai-sep24-2022/event

Booking.com inspires sustainable travel with GenZ star Shanaya Kapoor as its next Explorer

Launches the second edition of Booking Explorers campaign to celebrate the relentless spirit of travel

India, September 2022 - As travel roars back to life, the time is now for travellers to reconnect with the destinations, cultures, people and experiences that they love. With the aim of inspiring us all to rediscover ourselves and reignite our desire to travel, Booking.com, one of the world’s leading travel brands, launches the second edition of its award-winning Booking Explorers campaign today and  celebrates the adventurers and trailblazers among us who have kept the spirit of travel alive, despite the struggles and disruptions we continue to face post-pandemic.

Through the Booking Explorers campaign, Booking.com is bringing to life the compelling stories of 5 explorers across APAC, including the up-and-coming Bollywood actress Shanaya Kapoor, along with other leading travel personalities from Australia, South Korea, Vietnam and Japan. As part of the campaign, these APAC explorers share their travel stories and desire to explore all things new and familiar, whether it’s in their own backyards or around their home countries. Shanaya Kapoor, who is gearing up for her acting debut, shares her love for India – its colourful cities and picturesque countryside, Instagram-worthy destinations and most importantly, the need for responsible and sustainable travel among GenZs.

Through this year’s Explorers, Booking.com continues to celebrate the relentless spirit of travel, and their desire to keep experiencing and exploring all things new and familiar, whether it’s in their own backyards or around their home countries. However as much of the world seeks to travel again, we recognise the need for sustainability: from avoiding single-use plastic and making smart, responsible choices when choosing stays, to transforming how and where we travel so that we minimise our impact on the destinations we visit; and hopefully leave our destinations greener than when we first arrived.

Apart from Shanaya, this year’s campaign features four new personalities across Asia Pacific. Former MasterChef Australia grand finalist, Simon Toohey takes us on a culinary adventure through Victoria, Australia. Multidisciplinary artist MY Q brings us alive South Korea – from underground music scenes to contemporary art galleries. Nature-loving lifestyle personality Tran Quang Dai advocates for sustainable living and travelling as he takes us through Vietnam. And finally, Japanese supermodel Ai Tominaga, a familiar face in haute couture, shares her love for tranquillity, the beauty of nature, and the countryside.

“We want to inspire travellers in Asia Pacific through the rich stories of our Explorers,” said Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director for Asia Pacific. “They invite us to dig deeper into the sights and cultures of the countries they call home. I hope their stories stir travellers everywhere to open their hearts and minds to new experiences and put sustainability at the forefront of all they do.”

Shanaya Kapoor, the India explorer for this campaign said, “I am really excited to associate with Booking.com and be a part of the Booking Explorer campaign that celebrates the relentless spirit of travel in a more meaningful and responsible way. I personally love to travel and I feel as a young actor trying to work on my craft there is no better drama school than to travel into the unknown, find inspiration, enter new cultures, meet new characters and learn from new friends. Even if you are not an actor but knowing yourself, finding out qualities about yourself, about your personality, you will always know one new thing when you travel and that for me is a great achievement.”    

With a mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, Booking.com is committed to helping travelers rediscover the beauty of travel and reconnect with the experiences they love. Offering the widest choice, great value, and the easiest experience so travellers can book their perfect place to stay, Booking.com offers the means to get around from anywhere and on any device.

CULINARY AND BAKERY OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS OF HOSPITALITY

Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management And Catering Technology and Academy of Pastry and Culinary Arts (APCA), India collaborated to organize a BAKERY & CULINARY Workshop for aspiring Culinary and Bakery Chefs of BCIHMCT, New Delhi.

The workshop, conducted on September 17, 2022, in the institute premises, was specifically aimed for student chefs who are aiming to make their careers in Culinary, Bakery, and Patisserie. A total of 30 students from the Final year benefitted from the workshop.

Mr. A K Gupta, Marketing Head, APCA, commenced the session with a presentation on the Academy of Pastry and Culinary, making students aware about the many avenues being offered in the field of Patisserie. In modern times, the right kind of culinary and pastry education along with the art of cooking can be a stepping stone for one of the most sought-after career options in India.

Chef, Ms. Prerna Baldev Motwani, Assistant Bakery Chef APCA, then practically demonstrated the different dimensions of Cake Making and emphasized on Travel Cakes in particular. Students were amazed to learn about ORANGE CHOCOLATE CAKE - a recipe formulated by the chef herself.

During the preparation of the cake, she gave insights about many pertinent factors like – Science of Cake Making, Use and Significance of right Ingredients in Cake Making, Handling Faults in Cake Making etc. The session was interactive, and students asked many questions and the experienced baker was quick to answer all of them. The event was a major success as it made the students realize another career path for their culinary future.

The event was coordinated by Chef Ranojit Kundu (HOD – Patisserie), Chef Uttam Kumar Singh and Chef Suprabhat Banerjee, Assistant Professors, BCIHMCT, New Delhi. The event was reported by Mr Peeyush Srivastav, Assistant Professor, BCIHMCT, New Delhi.

Sofitel Mumbai BKC Welcomes Navratri with a Special Navratri Thali at Tusker's

Sofitel Mumbai BKC, the elegant, luxury hotel in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, will offer a special Navratri Thali at Tusker’s from September 24-October 5, 2022.

Tuskers is the specialty vegetarian restaurant & bar at Sofitel Mumbai BKC. Guests who opt for the delicious Navratri Thali will begin with a refreshing Lassi; followed by starters of Sabudana Vada; and Aloo Tikki. Main Courses include Vrat Ki Kadhi, tempered curd-based curry with fresh coconut; Moongfali Rassedar, peanut and coconut curry; Dahi Arbi, colocassia & curd tempered with curry leaves and cumin; Suran Ki Sabzi, yam cooked with fasting spices; and Sama Ki Khichdi, tempered sama rice cooked with ground peanuts and fresh coconut. The meal will be accompanied by Singhare Ki Poori and Set Curd. Desserts will include Sabudana Kheer; Ratalu Ka Halwa; and Cut Fruits.

The special Navratri Thali at Tusker’s is priced at Rs. 1900 plus taxes per person, for lunch only, and is available from September 24-October 5, 2022.  

Tusker’s

Sofitel Mumbai BKC

C 57, G Block BKC

Bandra Kurla Complex

Bandra East

Mumbai – 400051

Hours of Operation: 12 pm – 3:00 pm (lunch),  Monday-Sunday

Telephone: +91 91673 91130  

Beach Cleaning Drive by The Fern Samali Resort, Dapoli (Ratnagiri), Maharashtra

The Fern Samali Resort, Dapoli (Ratnagiri) carried out a beach cleaning exercise at Ladghar beach near the resort and collected more than 200 kg of plastic and other waste materials strewn across the beach, the GM of The Fern Samali Resort, Dinesh Kumar Yadav said.

Congratulating the green team of The Fern Samali Resort,  Noshir A Marfatia, Senior Vice President - Sales & Marketing, The Fern Hotels & Resorts said, “ Such activities are extremely important for us, as they resonate with the basic philosophy of the brand. We encourage all our hotels to carry out such activities from time to time”.  

The entire activity was carried out by the green team members of the resort. The staff members collected plastic bottles, wrappers and other types of waste  to make the beach look beautiful , Dinesh informed.

During the Ganapati visarjan, there is a lot of activity at the beaches as people bid adieu to their beloved God. These people leave a lot of things like thermocol sheets, floral offerings etc, so we decided to carry out the activity after the visarjan,  Dinesh said

The Fern Hotels & Resorts is India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain and amongst the fastest growing hotel brands in India, with over 90 hotels & resorts currently operational under management or opening shortly across 75 locations in India and internationally under The Fern, The Fern Residency, Zinc by The Fern and Beacon Hotels brands. The company is a part of CG Hospitality, the hospitality arm of CG Corp Global, a multi-dimensional Nepalese conglomerate.

Plan ahead for Six of India’s most exciting upcoming art festivals at these destinations

After more than two years of silence in the fields and cities of the best-loved art events, festivals are back with a bang. Held at beautiful destinations across India, these festivals offer unique opportunities for art enthusiasts. People passionate about art forms such as music, films or photography can amalgamate their love for art with travel for an enriching break. And with organizers clearly determined to remind festival-goers what they have been missing, some of the country’s fine artists will grace art festivals across destinations for the rest of the year. 

Now that the world is finally opening up again, Booking.com has curated a list of domestic destinations with the most anticipated art festivals of 2022 for travellers to get into the vibe. From Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh to Alsisar in Rajasthan, plan ahead for exciting upcoming art festivals where each festival offers something completely unique. 

1.    Ziro Festival of Music - Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh (29th September - 2nd October 2022)

Hosted in Arunachal Pradesh’s lush green Ziro valley, the music festival is an amalgam of vibrant culture, music, and art. The Ziro Music Festival brings some of India's top musical talents to a wide audience yearning for some original and cool music. In addition to the festival, the valley has a lot to offer for travel enthusiasts. Home to the Apatani tribe, the Ziro Valley stands out for its picturesque scenery, majestic mountains, charming villages, rivers, and landscapes. One can explore and understand centuries-old indigenous farming practices, stroll through villages, plan a trek to Hakhe Tari, or visit the Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the endangered clouded leopard. With four days of wonderful music combined with a spellbinding location; travellers are sure to have a place worthy of their bucket list.

2.    Jodhpur RIFF in Mehrangarh Fort - Jodhpur, Rajasthan (6th October - 10th October 2022)

The Jodhpur RIFF (Rajasthani International Folk Festival) is a five-day musical gateway that embraces Rajasthan's rich musical legacy. The festival is hosted at the spectacular Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, the quintessential Blue City, described by Rudyard Kipling as "the work of angels, fairies, and giants." When more than 250 performers from all over the world play against the majestic backdrop of Mehrangarh Fort, the audience is captivated by the sheer beauty and grandeur of music. Jodhpur, also popularly known as the "Sun City," encapsulates all that the state is known for—from golden deserts and crumbling forts to sumptuous palaces and luxurious accommodations. So, this October, get ready to visit opulent palaces, indulge in local flavours, partake in adventure activities, experience the cultural extravaganza, and enrich your journey with memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. 

3.    Magnetic Fields Festival in Alsisar Mahal - Alsisar, Rajasthan (9th December - 11th December 2022 )

Known as one of the most stunning music festivals spanning across three days in the magnificent Mahal of Alsisar in Rajasthan, Magnetic Fields is nothing less than a visual dream. It is a unique marriage of contemporary culture with Rajasthani customs and hospitality. The musical carnival features some of the world's biggest underground stars as well as some of the country's best and most forward-thinking music. Apart from the wonderful music, attendees can enjoy an adventurous jungle safari to the popular Ranthambore national park, high tea sips at a garden picnic, relax at majestic pool parties, and indulge in gourmet treats at The Chef's table. Magnetic is more than simply a festival; it's a whole experience that you must have. 

4.     The Orange Festival - Dambuk, Arunachal Pradesh ( 15th December - 18th December 2022) 

Nestled deep inside Arunachal Pradesh’s Lower Dibang Valley, Dambuk is acclaimed for its oranges. Nature reigns in all her purity here, away from all the clamour of the city, retaining the state's distinct rustiness. Hundreds of acres of orange orchards on the mountain slopes add to the region's charm during the harvesting season. This sparked the idea of an orange-themed music and adventure event. The Orange Festival of Adventure & Music attracts visitors from all over the world who want to discover Arunachal Pradesh's untamed natural beauty and learn about the native way of life. The event is a perfect combination of traditional and modern elements, including music, speed, and thrills. The Orange Festival of Adventure & Music is not just another music festival but a confluence of music, oranges, and adventure put together in the scenic setting of the stunning Dambuk! 

5.    Dharamshala International Film Festival - McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh (3rd November - 6th November 2022)

Held in the serene dreaming town of McLeod Ganj, artists and film enthusiasts consider it one of India's greatest independent film festivals. The Dharamshala International Film Festival is also known for its exciting and unusual selection of documentaries, shorts and feature films. The festival also serves as a platform for filmmakers across the globe to showcase their talents. McLeod Ganj, often known as Little Lhasa, is a fascinating blend of Tibetan and British culture. Home to the spiritual leader, Dalai Lama, this town is famous for its breathtaking trekking trails, relaxing weather, magnificent scenery, and dynamic culture.

6.    Indian Photo Festival - Hyderabad, Telangana (18th November - 19th December 2022)

The Indian Photo Festival (IPF) is organized by Light Craft Foundation in partnership with the department of tourism, the government of Telangana, and the State Gallery of Art. IPF, India's longest-running international photography festival, celebrates the world behind the lens with talks, workshops, screenings, and print and digital exhibitions by photographers from around the world. The festival aims to promote the art of photography while also addressing social concerns. The festival is hosted at several locations around Hyderabad, which offers a range of tourist attractions such as age-old heritage monuments, gardens and resorts, lakes, parks, museums, scrumptious dishes, and an amazing shopping environment. Hyderabad, endearingly named the Pearl City, is a stunning panorama of the past and is a blend of rich cultural and historical traditions spanning 400 years.

History is Witnessed by NO Nominations for Office Bearers Position – unopposed: TAAI

TAAI successfully conducted the process of scheduling the 71st Annual General Meeting of Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) and the Election of the Office Bearers and Members of the Managing Committee for the term 2022 – 2024. The receipt of nominations was closed at 5 PM on 15th September 2022. The nominations received in sealed envelopes were opened in presence of the members who were present at 5 PM on 15th September 2022 and were available while the scrutiny was being done.

It was informed to the nominees that if any of the above members wishes to withdraw his / her nomination the same can be done before 17:00 hours on Friday, 23rd September 2022, by giving intimation in writing to the Hon. Secretary-General, by post at the registered address of TAAI or by email generated through the member’s registered email ID.

We are pleased to share that TAAI created history once again by no one filing for nominations for the position of Office Bearers. The members showed complete confidence in the current dynamic team spearheaded by the most formidable Jyoti Mayal. The Annual General Meeting and the Elections will be held on Thursday, 29th of September 2022 at ITC Maratha, Sahar Airport Road, Near International Airport - T2, Ashok Nagar, Andheri (East), Mumbai – 400099 at 11:30 AM.

Savour Delhi’s new take on Modern Indian dishes with Amaltas

Delhi, September 2022: Amaltas- Indian Tapas and Bar is a trendy new addition in the Delhi restaurant scene with a delightfully refreshing Modern Indian menu and interiors that are very pleasing to the eye. Amaltas aims to elevate and redefine Indian cuisine with a unique blend of modern techniques & exquisite ingredients. It also aims to bring it closer to an audience that is exposed to global cuisines.

‘Amaltas- Indian Tapas’ perfectly adapts Modern Indian food into the Tapas concept and is a first for the Indian food scene. While the inspiration is deeply rooted in regional Indian cuisines, the execution of the dishes is inspired from around the world.

Guests are welcomed into the yellow - green, Amaltas themed interiors, with overhanging ceiling fins, colourful furnishings and bright yet calming vibes, inducing a sense of nostalgia of older times in Delhi. A gorgeous section has been created with a wallpaper backdrop of the beautiful Amaltas in full bloom, this is surely one for an Instagram frame. 

Helmed by Chef Udit Maheshwari, the elegant dining place offers a multitude of unique dishes along with a selection of exciting drinks that guarantees an unforgettable gastronomical experience. The flavoursome Modern Indian food menu offers a spectacular list of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Tapas-style small plates. What’s different is the introduction of some completely unheard-of sections such as Savoury Dessert & Snackable breads that will prove to be a refreshing change from the usual Indian dining affair. 

The signature delicacies such as Kuchampuli Chicken Wings that are an Indian take on barbequed wings, Kutt Kofta made with plant-based meat, Sweetcorn Momos with Lebu broth that is inspired by Kolkata’s momos & soup, Bandel Cheese Seekh Kebab and Mangalorean Cauliflower Roast. Kalimpong Cheese Tart and Jalebi Chaat from their savoury Dessert section are already crowd favourites. The menu has been curated with an inclusion of several vegan, dairy free and gluten free dishes - something which is very difficult to achieve in Indian cuisine.

Talking about the launch Chef Udit Maheshwari, Chef-Owner, Amaltas- Indian Tapas and Bar said, “With the launch of Amaltas, we are excited to venture into the restaurant space. Being the pioneer in curating a first of its kind Tapas serving concept, we will be serving distinctive Modern Indian food with my take on interesting and high-quality ingredients from across the country that will cater to taste buds of all age groups. Our first venture, Pitaara Kitchen – a delivery kitchen brand, was much loved by the people of Delhi, and we are hoping to get the same amount of love and acceptance for our new business to make Amaltas – Indian Tapas a new favourite restaurant among diners in the city.”

Look out for some finer touches - from coasters that are hand-made crochet sourced from polio afflicted artisans to a dedicated wall that will showcase & sell arts and crafts from budding artists and the specially abled. You will find something interesting in every corner.

Whether you’re looking a place for a friend’s meetup, a family get-together or just a place to unwind & relax over great food and drinks, Amaltas is your answer.

Where: Amaltas – Indian Tapas & Bar- M25, First Floor, GK2, M Block Market

Time: 12 pm -11 am

Price (For Two): INR 1000 + taxes

For Reservation, call on +91 8595324189

Kerten Hospitality’s “Pipeline with a Purpose” sees one new opening a month between now and the end of 2022

New properties in Kuwait, AlUla and Rome follow recent openings in Tbilisi and Istanbul, as well as a pioneering gelato brand in Riyadh

DUBAI, September 2022: Following on from the much-lauded opening of The House Hotel Old Tbilisi in July this year, mixed-use ESG-focused lifestyle operator Kerten Hospitality is ramping up development, with more than 40 purpose-driven projects across 12 brand concepts in Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and the CIS region.

Between now and the end of 2022, Kerten Hospitality will open one new concept a month, a robust pipeline-with-a-purpose that puts the brand’s strong commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) and responsible community-based business practices in the spotlight, with every opening aiming to have a long-term positive impact on the community in which it operates. Upcoming openings include hotels in Rome, Kuwait and AlUla which will be closely followed by a new opening in Marrakech later this year. The brand’s mixed-use developments focus on connecting travellers and residents, with collaborations and own-brand projects in the food and beverage, entertainment, art and wellness spheres. More than simply opening a hotel or restaurant, Kerten Hospitality builds community-centric destinations and ecosystems where business and leisure combine to create vibrant mini-economies.

Marloes Knippenberg, Chief Executive Office of Kerten Hospitality, believes that the brand’s active development pipeline will bring benefits to both guests and investors. “As we ramp up our developments, we’re creating jobs in each destination we enter, proactively hiring locally and creating opportunities for those looking for career development. We’re also supporting businesses by purchasing locally wherever possible,” she says. “More developers are seeking to connect with operators to look jointly at creating something that brings not only a long-term ROI, but that also connects to the neighbourhood through mixed-use projects that drive year-round footfall. At Kerten Hospitality, we’re in the perfect position to drive forward more of these projects with a purpose.”

A collection of ESG-focused hospitality brands

Kerten Hospitality’s diverse range of brands currently includes:

• The House Hotels – The House Hotel are laid-back luxury properties in prime locations that marry cultural elements with classic and contemporary styles, offering tailored destination experiences that connect to the community. Currently open are The House Hotel City Yard Jeddah, an energetic and stylishly designed lifestyle hotel connected to some of the city’s most exciting food and beverage concepts, and The House Hotel Old Tbilisi, a restored traditional merchant’s house in the Georgian capital’s historical heart, with hand-painted murals by Musya Qeburia in each of the rooms. Upcoming projects are well underway in Egypt, Kuwait and Turkey.

• Cloud 7 Hotels – A young-at-heart lifestyle brand, Cloud7 focuses on punchy, colourful design, and shakes up the concept of what it means to be a hotel. Deskless check-in, lobbies that function as social hubs, healthy grab-and-go food, and boutiques selling locally made products are all part of what makes Cloud7 much more than just another mid-scale hotel. Currently operating in Ayla Aqaba in Jordan, and StaySO by Cloud7 in Istanbul’s Bomonti neighbourhood, with upcoming projects in prime locations in Egypt, Italy, Jordan and the UAE.

• The House and Cloud7 Residences – Both The House and Cloud7 brands incorporate residences and serviced apartments for short- or long-term stays, connecting guests to the local community with communal spaces, brand collaborations and buzzing dining venues. They have plenty to offer investors too, with the combined benefits of the brands’ trademarks, full services and facility management leading to premium selling prices.

• Nakhati – Just opened in August in Riyadh, Nakhati, meaning “my flavour” in Arabic, is Kerten Hospitality’s purpose-driven premium gelato brand offering more than just deliciously unexpected flavours and local Saudi ingredients. Nakhati offers fledgling Saudi entrepreneurs the opportunity to launch their own franchises with access to initial funding, a range of options from a simple gelato cart to kiosk or fully-fledged store, and a comprehensive suite of high-quality business tools and mentorship programmes to support the growth and empowerment of franchisees.

• Ouspace – Ouspace brings a collaborative working space environment to each of Kerten Hospitality’s residential developments, replacing the traditional meeting rooms and business centres of the past with a future-looking solution. The spaces are blank canvases, offering flexible space for events, social scenes for those who like to be part of something bigger, and efficient, functional workplaces for when something just needs to get done. It’s the future of business. Upcoming openings planned in Jeddah and Tbilisi.

A development pipeline with a purpose

Kerten Hospitality’s ambitious pipeline of upcoming projects spans ten openings in the next eight months, with ten additional signings in progress and a total of more than 45 projects in development. Upcoming projects include openings in Egypt, Georgia, Italy, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and range from urban to resort projects in locations both familiar and emerging.

Much of the brand’s purpose is built on the ESG initiative UBBU – United. Building a Better Universe. Inspired by the Butterfly Effect, based on the fact that small actions, especially when done by many, have the power to prompt global impact and change, the brand’s UBBU philosophy drives every project from the beginning to completion. From early steps, such as a commitment to hiring staff locally and using local materials, to decisions around supporting social causes, creating markets for local artists and artisans, to making simple adjustments to heat, water and air-filtering systems, UBBU is the foundation on which every project is built.

“ESG is more than a nice-to-have for Kerten Hospitality,” says Knippenberg. “It drives everything we do, from a social to an environmental level. Our belief in UBBU is shared by every member of our team, and that drive to bring only positive impacts on the destinations in which we operate is one of the key foundations of our business.”

JW MARRIOTT MUMBAI JUHU ADDS A NEW AMENITY –EV CHARGING STATION FOR GREEN TRAVELLERS, LAUNCHES A DIGITAL CAMPAIGN “CHARGE FOR CHANGE”

The EV charging station at the hotel is a part of the electric mobility revolution in the country and the hotel’s commitment to a sustainable future.

Mumbai, September 2022 – JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, the 5-star luxury hotel in Mumbai is pleased to introduce an all-new amenity for their guests – the EV charging station. The hotel has been committed to be a leader in offering guest experiences that exceeds expectations and setting the standard for global sustainability targets within the industry. The property is dedicated to finding and integrating leading environmental and social practices across their hotel operations. In partnering with a like-minded organizations, the hotel aims to enhance and strengthen their commitment towards sustainability, benefitting their business and the communities they serve.

The EV charging station at the hotel has been installed in collaboration with Charge Zone and the chargers are compatible with all on-sale four-wheeler EVs in India. The EV charging facility i.e. Charge Zone’s 60kW DC CCS2 fast charger can charge two electric cars simultaneously.

From design to the guest experience, sustainability is embedded into the hotels business strategy. The hotel collaborates with their associates, suppliers, business partners and   guests to actively reduce the environmental impact. While integrating sustainability across their hotel operations and mitigating climate-related risk, the property is working to reduce their environmental impact, build and operate sustainably and source responsibly.

The hotel also recently launched a social media campaign “Charge For Change” promoting the new facility at the hotel. To view the campaign film, click here.

About JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. Inspired by the principles of mindfulness, JW Marriott is a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in over 30 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com

Sofitel Mumbai BKC Launches New Negroni Cocktails for Negroni Week

Sofitel Mumbai BKC, the elegant, luxury hotel in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, has just launched a new Negroni cocktail menu, to celebrate Negroni Week.

Available till September 18, 2022, at the hotel’s Le Bar Diamantaire, the special menu offers patrons five different types of Negroni cocktails. These include Campari Boulevardier; Campari Spagliato; Campari In & Tonic; Hazelnut Negroni; Campari Garibaldi; and Chocolate Orange Negroni. 

Each Negroni cocktail on the special menu is priced at Rs. 899 plus taxes. Proceeds from the sales of the cocktails go to charity.

Visit Le Bar Diamantaire till September 18, 2022 to enjoy the special cocktails being served to celebrate Negroni Week. 

Le Bar Diamantaire

Sofitel Mumbai BKC

C 57, G Block BKC

Bandra Kurla Complex

Bandra East

Mumbai – 400051

Hours of Operation: 12 pm – 12 am, Monday-Sunday

Telephone: +91 22 6117 5115 

The Westin Hyderabad mindspace put fourth a range of sustainability initiatives

Onsite bottling plant, Green powers, EV charging stations etc, a some of the initiatives taken by the hotel

At Westin Hyderabad, sustainability and the environment are deeply ingrained into our operational procedures. Guided by Marriott International’s 2025 sustainability and social impact goals and Chalet Hotels Limited‘s RE100, EP100 and EV100 initiatives linked to renewable electricity, energy efficiency and electric mobility respectively, they are pleased to announce the launch of our Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station at the hotel on the occasion of World EV Day.

Some of their sustainability initiatives to minimize our environmental footprint as a part of our amenities are:

• Onsite Bottling Plant – Eradication of Single-Use plastic water bottles.

Our vision to eradicate single-use plastic is in line with our mission to reduce the global carbon footprint and our commitment to be environmentally friendly through sustainability initiatives. The bottling plant at the hotel generates 240 litres of water in an hour which will be available in glass bottles for the guests in guestrooms as well as restaurants.

“Sustainability is the most powerful resource in business today”

Amitabh Rai, Cluster General Manager, The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace and Hyderabad Market.

• Green Power– The first hotel in Hyderabad to get 100% green power.

“Sustainability is the most powerful resource in business today. Investing and implementing initiatives that use renewable energy and are eco-friendly, and reduce dependence on non-green sources enable benefits that are far-reaching even in terms of return of investment. The impact that these initiatives have on minimizing the carbon footprint and climatic change is very important to account for as a collective global responsibility.” says, Amitabh Rai, Cluster General Manager, The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace and Hyderabad Market

The Ultimate Maldivian Adventure for Luxury Travel Partners,Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts gives a taste of the “Joy of Giving”

Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts gives a taste of the “Joy of Giving”

Mumbai,September 2022: With the growing prominence of the Maldives in the Indian outbound market, leading hospitality group Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, organized a familiarization tour for 25 Indian travel agent partners to six of their Maldives properties. Atmosphere which is well known for their brands - THE OZEN COLLECTION, COLOURS OF OBLU and By Atmosphere. The objective of the visit was to familiarize the agents, about the brand architecture, as well as experience the unique Atmosphere hospitality, weaved with the values of the Joy of Giving.

The two group familiarization tours began simultaneously. The 1st Group kicked off their trip from OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi and OBLU SELECT Lobigili followed by OBLU NATURE Helengeli. The following day the partners started with OBLU Select Sangeli before moving on to the next property, VARU By Atmosphere. On the other hand, the second group started from VARU By Atmosphere and then to OBLU SELECT Sangeli followed by OBLU NATURE Helengeli and concluded at OBLU NATURE Helengeli.

On the occasion of this familiarization tour, Vignesh Mohan, Director of Sales for Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts said “It was an opportunity for our partners to experience the “Joy of Giving”, which they have been extending to our mutual customers and guests in India. It was important to us that all segments of the trade community experience this and thus we invited our wholesale partners along with the travel agents. We especially focused on some of our gastronomic offerings including Indian and international cuisine, along with outdoor activities and wellness initiatives.”  

Maldives offers the Indian traveler, a dream destination in close proximity and still undiscovered. Its natural place in the Indian ocean creates for an appealing union of azuring views of the blue, a taste of the Maldivian culture, adventure sports and wellness. The itinerary was specifically curated in a manner that brought key elements of the experience to the fore, including exquisite gastronomy at the specialty restaurants in each of the resorts and the under ocean restaurant Only BLU at OBLU SELECT Lobigili and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi. An escape to the view of alluring Indian Ocean with exemplary services and exclusive dinners at all the properties left the tour group of 20 luxury travel partners from India captivated. 

Marriott International Signs Agreement for Inaugural Property in Papua New Guinea

Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby is Expected to Open in Mid-2023

Marriott International, Inc. today announced it has signed an agreement with Steamships Trading Company Ltd., to debut its first property in Papua New Guinea, the Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby. Slated to open in mid-2023, the property is set to be located in the heart of Port Moresby within the mixed-use development of Harbourside South.

Mr. Geoff Cundle, Chairman of Steamships, said, “I’m delighted that Steamships will work with Marriott International at Harbourside South. Located in the CBD district of downtown Port Moresby, and overlooking the Coral Sea and Fairfax Harbour, this is set to be a flagship development for Steamships, and this property is an excellent fit within the overall Harbourside precinct. The Harbourside precinct connects Harbourside South’s retail, commercial, leisure, and residential facilities with the existing commercial floors and F&B outlets of Harbourside East and West. Residents and guests of Marriott Executive Apartments Port Morseby will be able to live, shop, relax, work, and dine within the luxury and safety of the precinct – the first of its kind in Papua New Guinea.”

Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby is anticipated to feature 88 modern residential apartments – offering space, ambiance, and privacy of residential living, enabling a comfortable stay away from home. The new property is slated to feature spacious one and two bedroom apartments with separate living, sleeping, and working areas. Guests will also be able to enjoy additional amenities, including laundry services, kitchens equipped with a refrigerator, dishwasher, cooktop, microwave, and oven, and spacious dining areas.

“We are excited to work with Steamships Trading Company Ltd. to debut Marriott International’s first property in Papau New Guinea,” highlighted Sean Hunt, Area Vice President, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, Marriott International. “Following our signing of Marriott Executive Apartments in Melbourne earlier this year, this is an exciting signing and testament to the confidence our owners have in this brand.”

Upon opening, Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby is expected to feature a lounge for residents and guests that offers a relaxed environment for light meals, self-service options and evening cocktails. Additional plans call for a spacious leisure floor which includes a lap pool, leisure pool, a well-equipped fitness center, three spa treatment rooms, and a recreational zone for children.

Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby will serve as an integral part of the new Harbourside South development, which also features a retail floor and three floors of A-grade commercial space. It will connect to the Harbourside East and West buildings on Port Moresby’s waterfront, which opened in 2015. The development offers quality commercial tenancies, the city’s finest restaurants and bars, a boardwalk, and marina.

Steamships Trading Company Ltd is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and Papua New Guinea’s National Stock Exchange (PNGX) and is part of the wider Swire Group, which includes the Hong Kong- listed Swire Pacific Ltd, owners of Swire Hotels, Cathay Pacific Airways and numerous other subsidiaries.

WELCOMHOTEL BENGALURU ACCREDITED LEED ZERO CARBON CERTIFICATION BY USGBC

WelcomHotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru has been accredited with yet another distinction by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) – the LEED ZERO CARBON certification. The first Welcomhotel to achieve this milestone, it is the 4th in the ITC Hotels chain after ITC Windsor in Bengaluru, ITC Grand Chola in Chennai and ITC Gardenia in Bengaluru to be accorded this certification by USGBC. 

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru was opened in 2014 and was awarded LEED Platinum rating by IGBC Under New Construction (NC) Version in the same year. The property since its launch has continued to enhance its sustainability standards - the bedrock of ITC Hotels. In 2022, the hotel was recertified with the LEED Platinum Certification under the Existing Buildings category by USGBC. 

This LEED Zero achievement by Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru further demonstrates ITC Hotels’ deep commitment towards environment and our sustainability goals. Carefully using natural resources and synergise building/design strategies have been key drivers for ITC Hotels to keep on setting new benchmarks at a global level.

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru stands for best in class service – we are stylish hotels with young, vibrant and tech-enabled features, offering an ideal venue for the savvy and young business travellers, where cool and breezy ambience is blended seamlessly with spirited and efficient service. The hotel with its various sustainable measures like 99% Power requirement met by windmills, Zero Mile water, Chemical Free Water Treatment in Cooling Towers, Heat Pumps for Hot Water Generation, STP for reclaiming used water etc., has emerged as a model of environmental stewardship.

Amandeep Kaur, General Manager, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru added, “Sustainability is a driving force for ITC Hotel’s in line with our philosophy of Responsible Luxury that integrates world-class green practices with contemporary design elements to deliver the best of luxury in the greenest possible manner. Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels takes immense pride as one of the smallest hotel to date globally to achieve a LEED Zero certification. Having said that, we continue our concerted efforts towards sustainable solutions, addressing the grave challenges facing the world today without compromising our core strength of providing world class hospitality and luxury experiences. In most responsible ways, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru would continue its journey towards reducing carbon footprints further focusing on enhanced use of renewable energy sources as well as reduction in specific energy consumption.” 

“LEED Zero marks a new beginning for the hotel which comes with lot of pride and responsibility. We are excited and look forward to consistently improve our energy performance. ITC Hotels has pioneered several ground-breaking initiatives on environment, hotel ecosystem, health, and well-being. From LEED platinum ratings, to being one of the first chain to eliminate single use plastic free products, deployment of radiation harmonisers across the chain, farm to fork low carbon footprint cuisine, clean 

air and more, we are consistently aiming towards providing our guests with Planet Positive Experiences”, adds Sumeet Pal Singh, Chief Engineer at Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru. 

“At USGBC we believe net zero is a powerful target that will move the entire industry forward. It influences the rest of the market to aim even higher and achieving LEED Zero certification demonstrates these goals are attainable,” said Peter Templeton, president and CEO, USGBC. "Given the climate-related risks we are facing, and the central role buildings play in climate mitigation, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru’s LEED Zero certification for [energy, water, waste or carbon] demonstrates visionary leadership because it contributes toward a regenerative future and represents a commitment to making the world a better place.” 

For more than two decades, LEED has provided a framework for creating high performance green buildings and spaces and is an internationally recognized symbol of excellence. Building on that work, the U.S. Green Building Council has developed LEED Zero, a complement to LEED that verifies the achievement of net zero goals. LEED Zero represents a new level of achievement in green building that is not just attainable but is the goal of LEED certified projects around the world.

 (*LEED - Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)

About ITC Hotels:

ITC Hotels is the largest chain of hotels in the World, which has maximum number of LEED Platinum Certified Properties (As on June 2020, as per USGBC).  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, Bengaluru is the first hotel in the world to achieve LEED Zero Carbon Certification, ITC Grand Chola, Chennai is the largest hotel in the world to achieve the LEED Zero Carbon Certification.  ITC Gardenia, Bengaluru is the third hotel in world to receive the LEED Zero Carbon Certification. Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru is now the 4th in the ITC Hotels chain and the first amongst Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels to achieve this milestone.

About the U.S. Green Building Council 

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to a healthy, resilient and equitable future for all through the development of green buildings, cities and communities. For more than 20 years, USGBC has been advancing green building practices through the development of LEED, the world’s most widely used green building program. With the support of thousands of members, volunteers and partners, USGBC provides robust green building education courses, a rigorous professional credentialing program, and advocates for effective public policies. It convenes an international network of green building and sustainability leaders through the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, and forward thinking programs, including the Center for Green Schools. For more information, visit usgbc.org and connect on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Alumni Meet @ BCIHMCT - Reminiscing Past Memories

BCIHMCT celebrated its Alumni Meet with all pomp and glory. The fun filled nostalgic event was filled with cultural dances, nukkad natak and felicitations of achievers along with reminiscence of the years gone by. The purpose of any Alumni Meet is to reconnect with the Alumni and celebrate their success and many of their achievements. It is the time for happiness and nostalgia and also an opportunity to reflect on their learning and achievements.

After the traditional Lamp Lighting & Ganesh Vandana, the Alumni Meet commenced with a welcome address by Mr Manish Malhotra, Assistant Professor, BCIHMCT. He spoke about this auspicious occasion as an opportunity for all to reconnect after so many years with each other. Alumni can now notice the various changes through which the college has gone through over the past few years.

In the field of hospitality and beyond, the BCIHMCT Alumni students are leading the way in the true spirit of becoming job creators as many of them have turned into successful entrepreneurs of our times. The event's panel discussion was sponsored by ODCJOBS, a leading hospitality firm providing manpower support for the hospitality sector. This venture is an initiative of Alumni of 2008 2012 batch, Surender & Devender.

The event also saw "TOP TEN GEMS" from the ALUMNI, being felicitated for their extraordinary achievements including - Mr. Prashant Sharma, Director Of Rooms, Shangri-la hotels, New Delhi, Chef Utkarsh Bhalla, Brand Chef, Azure Hospitality, Mr. Saurabh Khurana, Hotel Manager, The Lodhi, New Delhi , Mr. Siddharth Malhotra, Head of Operations, Massive Restaurant, Mr. Deepak Behl, Director Of Sales and Marketing at IHG Hotels & Resorts among others.

Alumni also interacted with the current batch of students and gave motivational talks regarding preparation for the hospitality sector. Students asked many pertinent questions regarding the future of hospitality and the alumni shared their views on it.

Mr. R.K. Bhandari, Principal, BCIHMCT, then, shared his wisdom and knowledge, and spoke about many success stories of the alumni students. He appreciated the efforts of Alumni Association of BCIHMCT, who have done a lot of hard work to make this event possible.

Mr. Varun Balwani, Commercial Director, FCS Computer Systems, and the president of Alumni Association of BCIHMCT then concluded with a vote of thanks for all stakeholders including the sponsors of the event. He also thanked the management of BCIHMCT for the support and guidance which has made Alumni Meet 2022 a grand success.

HIGHLANDER TO RETURN TO RAS AL KHAIMAH REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR THE ULTIMATE LONG DISTANCE HIKING ADVENTURE

The second edition of HIGHLANDER’s specially designed two-and three-day hikes on Jebel Jais to take place 18 - 20 November

offering hikers and nature enthusiasts a thrilling adventure atop UAE’s highest peak

Gurugram, India, September 2022: Soaring rockscapes, rugged canyons, winding pathways and mesmerizing views of the Arabian Gulf – the Hajar Mountains are a breath-taking celebration of nature that makes hiking in Ras Al Khaimah truly unforgettable.

From 18 - 20 November, hikers at home and abroad have a unique opportunity to explore the secrets of the mountains with HIGHLANDER Ras Al Khaimah 2022. Taking place on the UAE’s longest developed hiking trail, the first adventure, HIGHLANDER55, is a 55km hike over three days (18 – 20 November 2022), while the HIGHLANDER Experience is a 30km two-day trek (19 – 20 November 2022). Both routes will offer exciting mental and physical challenges and the opportunity to take in the natural wonders of Ras Al Khaimah’s stunning mountain topography.

The second time the event has been held in the Emirate following the sell-out success of the first HIGHLANDER in November 2021, hikers will once again, in a backpacking fashion, carry everything they need to be self-sufficient and navigate through 100 kilometers of stunning hiking trails across Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak. Encompassing 14 kilometers of newly developed and more challenging trails, including the new HIGHLANDER trail, which stands as the longest developed hiking trail in the UAE, the route will take hikers through Wadi Ghalila, making their way through the iconic ‘Stairway to Heaven’ trail for the ultimate hiking experience. Designed to be more challenging than the original trails, the new routes are divided into two sections; the lower segment connects the top of Jebel Jais to the lower trails, through the popular ‘Hidden Oasis’ spot, while the upper segment connects the various Jebel Jais trails to extend the longer distance routes. With safety as paramount, there will be numerous HIGHLANDER checkpoints supported by marshals and medical first aid stations.

In line with Ras Al Khaimah’s vision to become a sustainable tourism leader, HIGHLANDER’s global ethos follows the principles of sustainable tourism through its zero-waste policy. Each adventure will feature a ‘Leave No Trace’ workshop as well as educational sessions on ecology and sustainability to highlight the importance of protecting the Emirate’s natural environment and taking home only memories and stunning photographs. These talks will reinforce the nature-driven aspect of hiking, drawing awareness and appreciation of hikers towards the diverse natural landscape and the need to preserve it, as well as the rich culture of the Emirate.

Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “Ras Al Khaimah is well known as the nature Emirate, with its combination of sea, desert, and mountains. Drawing on this natural heritage, we’ve worked closely with the local community to preserve the surrounding ecosystem, resulting in some of the most developed hiking trails in the region. As leaders in global adventure, we welcome HIGHLANDER for the second year to revisit some of their favourite trails on Jebel Jais and to discover new paths of exploration.”

Fadi Hachicho, Managing Director of HIGHLANDER UAE and Founder of Adventurati Outdoor, said: “Last year’s HIGHLANDER event saw Ras Al Khaimah welcome 158 adventurers from the UAE and other European countries to explore the Emirate’s unique mountain ecosystem. I am so excited to host a second edition where, together with the Authority, we will immerse the HIGHLANDER community in the natural beauty of our Emirate, reinforce the wellbeing attributes of outdoor activities and show the importance of preserving nature for future generations.”

Registrations are now open at highlanderadventure.com/ras-al-khaimah/. Entries cost AED 1,300 and include three meals per day, transportation to the start point, transportation of one 60L/20kg bag to the finish point and Mountain Rescue service fee. Participants will all receive a HIGHLANDER finisher badge and certificate, ID, Bib number, map and an exclusive finish point celebration. For further details visit the website or the HIGHLANDER Instagram page.

To discover more exciting outdoor activities in the Emirate go to  visitrasalkhaimah.com and visitjebeljais.com or Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority’s Instagram, YouTube and Facebook pages.

This International Literacy Day, these accommodations will make you fall in love with literature

As the world celebrates International Literacy Day, on September 8 to educate people about the importance of Literacy and the magic of reading, Booking.com has curated a list of 8 accommodations for all literature lovers to satisfy their literary quest, find new literary inspiration, and fall in love with books all over again.

Book And Bed Tokyo, Japan

Featuring over 1,700 reading materials in English and Japanese, this bookshop-themed accommodation is a great escape in the bustling city of Tokyo. Choose from the vast collection of books in the lobby, switch on your personal reading light and let yourself be instantly carried away to magical places.

B2 Boutique Hotel + Spa, Switzerland

For travellers who love to be pampered and enrich their knowledge while on holiday, consider staying at this boutique hotel close to Zurich’s centre.  Featuring a wellness area, a rooftop pool with stunning city views and a private library with 33,000 books, all you need to do is to choose where to settle down.

Hazlitt's, UK

In the heart of London’s West End, this boutique hotel was built in 1718 and makes the idea of relaxing with a book by the fireplace almost impossible to resist. Priceless antiques and historical features will help you quickly escape to the fascinating worlds of Dickens and Austen.

Il Salviatino, Italy

Nestled in the rolling Tuscan hills, this 15th-century renaissance villa will take you to the pages of the bestselling novel “Hills of Tuscany” by Ferenc Máté. This dream journey is complete with mouthwatering meals, fine wines, and panoramic views of Florence's historic center.

JW Marriott El Convento Cusco, Peru

Highly endorsed for history and culture, Cusco is a great base to explore the magnificent Machu Picchu. Built upon ancient Incan ruins, JW Marriott El Convento Cusco’s vaulted ceilings and Peruvian artifacts will inspire you to read one of Mario Vargas Llosa’s novels (if you haven’t already).

Library Hotel, USA

Featuring over 6.000 books from 10 different categories, The Library Hotel in New York City is inspired by the Dewey Decimal system. Whether you’re interested in philosophy, technology or arts, this boutique Midtown hotel can satisfy even the most demanding reader. 

Taj Falaknuma Palace, India

Have you ever entered a palace in a horse-drawn carriage? The Taj Falaknuma Palace is said to be the former residence of one of the wealthiest men in India. The property’s oak-paneled Palace Library features almost 6,000 books in glass-fronted cabinets and is an idyllic spot to spend your time reading about this fascinating country.

The Library, Thailand

Designed specifically to provide beautiful spaces for reading, The Library is a unique property with a modern aesthetic and a signature red swimming pool. Borrow a book from the property’s well-stocked library and broaden your horizons surrounded by tropical scenery.

Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat Gets Its Own Fun Park

Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat, known for its impeccable hospitality and beautiful ambience, now has another feather to flaunt in its cap. Its mark of distinction now has a fun aspect added to it with its new gaming and adventure zone, Fun Park, being launched. 

The zone, as is implied by its name, offers a vibrant range of fun-filled indoor activities for the guests to let their inner child out or bond with their loved ones. 

Whether it's scaling exciting heights with wall-climbing, or hitting big with indoor cricket, or jumping joyously with trampolining, there's something for everyone at Fun Park. 

Talking about the vision behind Fun Park, General Manager of Radisson Blu Resort Karjat Shantanu Guha Roy says 

“This year I started my journey with Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat and had my vision clear about new additions in the hotel. We host a lot of families every week and we wanted them to have memorable moments at our hotel,  not just with Rooms, Food and Pool but something extra and that defines my vision for our very own Fun Park at Radisson Blu Resort Karjat". 

Karjat now has the perfect address with luxury, adventure, fun, fitness, and sports all together and Radisson Blu Resort is all set to welcome guests to have a joyful and memorable stay.