Aloft Tulum Debuts in Mexico’s Bohemian Paradise

Aloft Tulum, a brand-new, boho-chic inspired hotel managed by Highgate Hotels, opened last week near Tulum’s desirable downtown district and its white-sand beaches. The four-floor property features 140 loft-like guest rooms and suites and a variety of vibrant spaces for socialization and music, including: signature Ático Rooftop Lounge & Bar with an infinity pool, teepees for kids, and the destination’s only venue for corporate meetings and events. Aloft Tulum is part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of brands, and its first property to debut in Tulum, Quintana Roo.

“After much anticipation, we are thrilled to welcome visitors to Aloft Tulum,” said the hotel’s General Manager Sergio Parra. “It is the ideal choice for travelers who are in search of a boutique-like hotel with bold design at an approachable price point.”

Aloft Tulum is as impressive as it is expressive. Next-gen travelers enter the hotel’s lobby to be greeted by urban art that changes seasonally, modern furniture and floor-to-ceiling windows. While guest rooms boast 10-foot-high ceilings, plush platform beds and light airy décor infused with natural textiles to deliver the ultimate comfort. Each room includes complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, 55-inch LCD televisions, free signature coffee, Aloft custom toiletries from Bliss® Spa and walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads.

For mingling, Aloft Tulum offers several design-forward spaces including its Ático Rooftop Bar & Lounge. At this hangout spot, guests can take a dip in the infinity pool, experience local cuisine and sip on seasonal cocktails – all while marveling at unrivaled views of Tulum. Additionally, the urban hotel is home to a Re: fuel by Aloft, filled with fresh grab-and-go options; Re:mix lounge, the perfect place to mix, mingle and play a game of pool; and the W XYZ® bar, where guests and locals alike can enjoy live music programming.

Double guest rooms currently start at $150 per night. Aloft Tulum has two welcome offers: Guests will automatically receive a savings of 20% on the hotel’s best available rate and Marriott Bonvoy members staying three or more nights will be awarded 3,000 points. Both offers are valid on bookings made before April 30, 2021 for travel through June 30, 2021. To book, visit www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tuyal-aloft-tulum

To Gig Or Not To Gig Is Not The Question… How to go about being a Gigger and take advantage of the Gig Culture is the question

The Gig Culture and Economy have got a boost with the Government weighing in with aggregators like Swiggy, Ola, Uber, Zomato, Urban Company... On Sep 28, 2020, The Ministry of Law And Justice amended the Code of Social Security. They defined (not quoted verbatim) the Gig Worker as a person(s) who earns outside of the traditional employer-employee relationship.

The code elaborated that the Government intends to set up a portal to register Gig Workers and frame Social Security schemes related to their life and disability, health, maternity, old age protection, education... This was reiterated in the recent budget.

The Gig Economy is a free market system; companies hire independent freelancers and short- term workers (called Giggers or Gig workers) and pay per hour or per assignment. Gig workers in India have traditionally been restricted to the unorganized segment in a quasi-legal manner as it has been a grey area. For example, Gig workers are housemaids, car washers, society sweepers… Factories pay workers per piece of garment or unit produced.

Giggers benefit as they aren’t handcuffed to a company. Now, with the Govt’s promised social security, the safety net is being spread out. Giggers get the flexibility to move to lucrative opportunities across Industries, Verticals and Countries. Swiggy and Zomato riders usually register with both services, as do Ola and Uber drivers. I knew of a Thai Airway’s air hostess who was curating recipes/menus for a popular Asian cuisine restaurant brand. Waiters serve in restaurants part-time and also deliver for Zomato / Swiggy. A manager working in a company doubles up as a DJ on weekends. Companies save on fixed monthly payout for positions and the Gigger earns handsomely.

The fear that the Gig Culture, with its frequent changes in manning, leads to defective products or services is untrue. Technology supports the production and delivery of services. So, with just a few hours/days of training, Giggers reach peak efficiency. Besides Giggers regularly work for the same company. Also, since companies’ manning costs remain controlled, the price of the product/service is competitive and affordable. Customers win too.

The Gig Culture is behind the growth and success of Ola, Uber, Swiggy, Zomato, Urban Company etc which have been mushrooming for a little over a decade now. They pay their frontline employees per delivery/trip model. They (companies) reduced the fixed monthly salary cost and converted a healthy chunk of it to a variable component. Variable payout translates as ‘higher sales equals higher payout for manning and vice-versa’. This is great for business considering the current environment of VUCA - Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity & Ambiguity. Companies meet demand spikes by increasing Giggers and easily hold out when demand bottoms-out by reducing the workforce. The recent pandemic is a case in point.

When the pandemic struck and things came unstuck, traditional companies took a beating and along with it the so-called permanent employees. Salaries were slashed and home loans, other EMIs, kid’s education... were all threatened. Is the pandemic really to blame or did we set ourselves up for this? Note: Gig Economy companies and Giggers actually prospered.

In the traditional system, emoluments aren’t based strictly on our contribution to the organisation but on the market ‘price’ or the perceived market value. Plus, many of us know how to negotiate better salaries. Our bosses too need an ‘excuse’ to pay us higher so they can negotiate a better pay for themselves with their boss. This boss too, in turn, would go to his / her respective boss and do the same. Chain reaction.

Added downside: Govt (PSUs) offer stable employment, guaranteed increments and promotions plus facilities. We have unions and Governments ensuring we get timely increments and bonuses. Private companies pay more and offer better facilities than PSUs so they can attract better talent and offer superior products and services. Rather than motivating employees to work better, all these ‘bribes’ do is make people slip into a comfort zone. To (re)motivate people, companies and PSUs get creative. They offer incentives for coming on time, dressing well, completing the task and call it Performance Linked Incentive (PLI). PLIs motivate folk for some time and then organisations even lower the bar to ensure they hit the target and take the prize. Remember, if juniors don’t get an incentive due to lack of performance, the bosses can’t either or at least it becomes difficult to justify.

So, we sometimes have situations like more pay for less work. Yet, we still compare ourselves to others and expect more for even less output.

Another logic applied is that the company is doing well and can afford it. After all, are we not collectively making it happen? That may well be the fact, but it could also be that the company got lucky and was at the right place at the right time, or due to the vision of the leader. Don’t agree with me? Then explain why when a company tanks, no one assumes the blame? How many employees do you know who voluntarily forfeited salaries? They should have actually chipped in to bail out the company. But at such times the leader or the top management is blamed.

My take is that the traditional ways of employment (so-called permanent jobs) is like being in a zoo – meals on time, medical benefits, fixed working hours, and protected from the hazards of nature. The incentive-based companies are like circuses – do stunts that are against your nature and get your meal / treats and applause that you don’t really need.

But being a Gigger is like being a tiger in the jungle. Go out there and hunt for yourself daily. No mercy asked for and none given. No protection from the powers of nature or from other wild beasts. Sure, we may live shorter lives, but won’t we actually live? Why chose the zoo or the circus when we can walk on the wild side

Anyway, while we may debate the merits and demerits of the Gig Economy and Culture, one thing is for sure: It’s here to stay. The faster we adapt and innovate, the better! As we say at HTI, “Let’s Colaborate! After all, the Gig Economy is employ-meant your way!”

Colaborate App gives freelance professionals and companies a platform through which they can connect and work together on a mutually beneficial hourly basis. Sign up on Colaborate NOW! It’s new, so it would take time to generate interest. But it’s free for now, plus you get the first-mover advantage.

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In case of challenges / doubts / feedback, please connect with aaron@hti-india.com

New Appointment |Tejus Jose appointed new General Manager at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course

Tejus is a highly motivated and dynamic professional who is recognized in the industry for his unique leadership skills. His strategic thinking, Sales, Marketing, MICE, and Revenue Management expertise have all turned out to be an asset to the properties he has been associated with. A passionate hotelier, Tejus Jose takes a keen interest in training and mentoring and takes pride in having groomed and mentored many hospitality leaders.

As the new General Manager at the hotel, Tejus Jose is responsible to lead operations, guests experience and help position the Renaissance Hotel brand as a true ‘Lifestyle Hotel’ brand of Marriott International, in Bengaluru. He studied at the Institute of Hotel Management Hyderabad and started his hospitality journey at Hotel Oberoi as an Executive Trainee. He later moved onto become a part of many hospitality brands including Hyatt International, Accor Hotels and Marriott International in various capacities.

He is an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta, where he majored in Strategy. In 2013, he received the Hotelier Award for the ‘General Manager of the Year’ as a testament to his broad-based experiences. Prior to his appointment at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, Tejus Jose was General Manager at the iconic Le Meridien, Kochi.

Tejus Jose enjoys cycling and listening to good music in his leisure time.

WICCI National Hospitality Council Announces Online Classes for hospitality professionals

WICCI National Hospitality and Tourism Council is proud to present a series of online classes for all hospitality professionals in collaboration with the renowned Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Aurangabad.

This significant endeavour aims to build leaders for tomorrow by up-skilling and imparting knowledge on key subjects such as Empowerment of Hospitality Industry through Education; Financial Acumen (CAGR, NAV, ROI, Working Capital, Cash Flow Statements, Balance Sheet); Zero Based Budgeting; Basics of Revenue Management; Inventory Management; Intricacies of Human Resource Management and Digital Marketing and Understanding.

Speaking on the occasion, Kanika Hasrat, President, WICCI Hospitality & Tourism Council said, “It gives us immense pride to announce this consequential initiative with the sole purpose of creating cornerstones for our industry colleagues to learn and grow. I am sure this initiative will become a people enabler, instil confidence, develop new capacities for action, create unique learning processes and will build change makers for today and for the future! We would like to thank IHM-Aurangabad for their support in this meaningful collaboration.

These online sessions will be hosted by esteemed faculty members of IHM-Aurangabad with the very first one being held on 13th February 2021 by Prof. Satish Jayaram, an impactful Professor of Innovation & Change Management, having won the Best Faculty Award for four years. Dr. Jayaram, Principal IHM Aurangabad said, "IHM Aurangabad is totally committed to the cause of WICCI Hospitality and Tourism and is delighted to help improve knowledge for the industry."

This knowledge-sharing platform will enable and enhance the overall development and open up horizons for better career opportunities of our hospitality colleagues so that they are ready for their next big move! The calendar of classes has been thoughtfully put together to cover all critical aspects of the overall operations of the hotel to think, implement and act like a leader.

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New Appointment | Novotel Ahmedabad appoints Aditi Pal as Director of Sales & Marketing

Novotel Ahmedabad, the largest leisure hotel in the city has appointed Aditi Pal as the new Director of Sales & Marketing. Pal comes with 16 years of combined experience in operations and over a decade in hotel sales from India & the United Kingdom. She was the Director of Sales at Renaissance Ahmedabad before joining Accor.

Pal began her career in the UK and later moved to India in 2010. This is her first project as a Director of Sales & Marketing and has worked with internationally renowned brands such as Best Western, Principal Hayley group, IHG, Carlson and an earlier stint at our very own Novotel Hyderabad Convention centre.

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NEWS | Maldives eyes tourism growth with packed 2021 events calendar

The Maldives, unfazed by the Covid-19 pandemic that has wreaked havoc on the travel industry, is planning to promote the destination aggressively at overseas trade exhibitions and roadshows through the year.

Initially, the NTO is preparing to participate at trade events and roadshows in Russia and India next month said Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) managing director Thoyyib Mohamed.

The Maldives drives up promotions with planned participation in more than 40 events this year

The MITT trade show in Moscow, a B2B and B2C event, will take place from March 16-18; coinciding with roadshows in Moscow, Kazakhstan, St. Petersburg and Yekaterinburg. Meanwhile, India’s South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange will be held on March 22 along with a roadshow.

There are no quarantine requirements for incoming travelers in both Russia and India, apart from having to furnish a negative Covid-19 PCR report on arrival – the same rule applied for arrivals in the Maldives, said Mohamed.

Since reopening its borders on July 15, 2020 after a four-month pandemic closure, the Maldives has seen a steady climb in tourist arrivals which peaked in December, with the island recording more than 96,000 arrivals – a 170 percent increase – during the month.

Tourist arrivals this year from January to February 12 totaled 129,507, as compared to 233,974 in the same 2020 period; while arrivals for the shortened 2020 year was 555,494, as compared to 1.7 million in 2019. This year’s tourist arrival target is set at 1.2 million.

This year, Russia, India, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Romania are the top source markets; while in 2020, India led the way followed by Russia, Italy, the UK, and Germany. Meanwhile, China, for years the Maldives’ biggest generating market, was in sixth place largely due to outbound travel restrictions.

Suresh Dissanayake, assistant vice president – sales & marketing, Heritance Aarah, Adaaran Resorts, said arrivals were steadily picking up and they expect a better season than in 2020. “We also hope to take part in some of the overseas exhibitions,” he added.

According to MMPRC’s fairs, roadshows and events calendar for 2021, the NTO will be participating in more than 40 events in the US, China, India, Russia, Italy, the Middle East, Spain, Poland, Thailand, Singapore, South Africa, the Philippines, Malaysia, France, Australia, Japan and Brazil.

As of February 13, the Maldives recorded 17,716 Covid-19 cases and 58 related deaths. Unlike most countries, tourism is flourishing in the Maldives during the pandemic period as all the tourist resorts are situated on isolated islands distant from the capital city, Male – also an island – where most of the infections and deaths have occurred.

Want to work in Maldives Click here

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Ingredient Ideology | QUIZZING ON QUINOA BY: DR. KAVIRAJ KHIALANI – CELEBRITY MASTER CHEF

Quinoa pronounced as “Keen-Wah”is a type of edible seed a much-heard word these days by various foodies, which comes in various colors including black, red, yellow & white, though technically seed quinoa is also classified as one of the whole grain as well which is quintessentially a good source of plant protein and fiber.

While white and yellow varieties have the mildest flavor, red and black ones have a slightly stronger and robust earthy flavor to them and tend to behold their shape better than the lighter options. While I have tried most of the varieties in my kitchen with a number of healthy options and concoctions, I somehow enjoyed every share of quinoa and would recommend all of you to try once at least!

To describe its nature and composition in simple words I would like to start by saying that its high protein content, a nice mild sweet and nutty flavor and delicate texture have made this super ingredient a great substitute for some of the starchy options like pasta and rice.

While it is easy to adapt to quinoa without much quizzing on its practicality or versatility most of the cuisines can adapt to it much the way I did with a few recipes with an Indian touch to quinoa as well. It is often described as a super grain or superfood and has gained popularity among the true health-conscious lot of people for a good reason.

Health Benefits of Quinoa:

• Quinoa is an anti-inflammatory grain and is also gluten-free, lowers cholesterol.

• Good for heart health, assists in digestion.

• It offers a high protein value to our system.

• Quinoa helps in weight management.

• It helps to regulate the glucose levels in the blood

• Quinoa has been considered good for bones.

• Assists in the treatment of diabetes.

• It benefits the overall health of our body due to its good offering of magnesium content.

Culinary Uses of Quinoa:

• It is best consumed in a cooked manner, not raw.

• I prefer to lightly roast or toast it before cooking it, as it develops a better flavor at the end.

• Rinsing quinoa is a must to avoid any soapy residue left behind in the bowl as we rinse through.

• Quinoa can also be ground into a form of flour and can help in a number of ways in various recipes from starters to desserts.

• Most people as I’ve come across have been using quinoa in salads by simply cooking it, cooling it down and adding it to the bowl, & toss, there are many more ways too!

• To start the day on a healthy note upma is one of the best options to try with quinoa with a few choices of seeds, veggies as per taste and convenience.

• Quinoa meatballs another good way to try a kofta format and bake them in the oven, serve it with nice mild tomato gravy and a soy naan.

• Mushroom quinoa burgers for those who love fast food elements, for the Italian lovers I suggest, try risotto with your favorite exotic veggies like asparagus, zucchini, broccoli, baby carrots and serve it with a mint and avocado pesto!

• A nice refreshing chilled tomato basil and quinoa soup a true friend in need in shot glasses to enjoy on a summer afternoon.

• Pairing quinoa with Chinese flavors is one experience I enjoyed a lot, add those spring onion greens, choice of colors from your vegetable basket toss them with quinoa into healthy fried rice and a bowl of steamed zucchini and soy Manchurian balls.

• For Mexican lovers, I recommend paneer bhurji and quinoa enchiladas, for Eggetarians try the Akoori or egg bhurji instead.

• A Buddha bowl vegan style with quinoa and the additions truly leave you back well satisfied with the experience and keeps you full for a good time too.

• And now it’s time for the sweet lovers, tempt yourself with the options coming by and pick your treat immediately and get rolling on. there’s soy milk-based chocolate quinoa pudding with sunflower seeds and dragon fruit, Choco-Chip Cookie made with a pinch of cinnamon powder, quinoa and brown rice flour sweetened with coconut sugar instead of the cane variety & lastly use coconut oil in place of butter.

• Chocolate almond quinoa fudge is a good evening snack; quinoa flour tahini walnut brownies are the ones you will surely ask for a second helping.

• Besides the above, we can also have quinoa rose petal phirni, quinoa rabdi, cheesecake, smoothies, milkshakes as well.

Here are a couple of simple and easy recipes to indulge into and try Quinoa in your Kitchens as well!

Recipe-

1] Quinoa Bowl of Goodness

Ingredients:

• Quinoa- white or yellow- 1 cup

• Olive oil-1 tbsp.

• Garlic-1 tsp. chopped

• Onion-1/2 small chopped.

• Cucumber-1/2 no. cubed

• Tomatoes-1 no. cut into small cubes, de-seeded.

• Bayleaf-1 no.

• Peppercorns- 3-4 no.

• Water/veg stock- 2 cups.

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil leaves- 8 to 10 nos.

• Lime juice- 2 tbsp.

• Chat masala powder- ¼ tsp

• Roasted crushed cumin – ½ tsp

• Pumpkin seeds/ flax seeds/ sunflower seeds- any1 – 1 tsp

• Fresh micro-greens for garnish/ fresh coriander/mint- 2 tbsp.

Method:

1. Rinse the quinoa well with water few times so as to ensure removing off all the foamy appearance and using a very fine mesh or strainer run it under cool water for a few seconds to confirm all saponins being drained off.

2. Boil water/ veg stock and add Bayleaf & quinoa to It and allow to cook on a medium flame and cover and cook until done.

3. Allow steam to escape in between, stir couple of times and once cooked turn off the flame and allow to cool down in a open tray or plate.

4. In a mixing bowl, combine the other ingredients from olive oil to the lime to seasonings and spices and mix well, add in the veggies and quinoa just before serving and arrange in a serving bowl.

5. Garnish with assorted roasted nuts/seeds/fresh herbs and enjoy this delectable bowl full of goodness!

Chefs Variations:

For a non-veg variety- try adding hard-boiled eggs/ scrambled eggs to this bowl of goodness with additions like sliced salami or sausages.

For some veggie options- cubes of tofu lightly marinated with vinegar, mustard paste and honey, cooked soy chunks, gherkins, olives, saute mushrooms, vegan mock meat, etc.

2] Power Pack Quinoa ka Meetha

Ingredients:

• Quinoa- 1 cup, white or yellow.

• Water- 2 cups.

• Green cardamom-2 nos.

• Jaggery-50 gms, grated.

• Soy milk- 1 cup

• Coconut flesh or malai- ¼ cup, sliced.

• Assorted nuts- 2 tbsp. chopped.

• Raisins- 1 tbsp. chopped.

• White chocolate- 2tbsp.

• Peanut butter coconut cream- 1 tbsp. peanut butter + ¼ cup coconut cream to be mixed and used.

• Assorted seeds for garnish- 1 tsp

Method:

1. prepare all the ingredients for the dessert.

2. boil water, cook the quinoa until done with the green cardamom.

3. in a thick bottomed pan, heat up the soy milk, add the quinoa, jaggery, nuts, and simmer for 10-12mins.

4. once it starts thickening, add the coconut malai and turn off the flame, add in the white chocolate, peanut and coconut cream mix and stir well.

5. set the dessert into small individual bowls and garnish with assorted nuts and seeds and allow to chill for 30 mins before serving.

Chefs Variations:

Try the same dessert in a baked format by assembling all of the above in a baking dish and topped with brown sugar and diced pineapple and cherries, covered and baked, served warm with strawberry rabdi.

Another way to do this is by having Nutri cookie bars being crumbled up and add them to the layers in the serving glasses and also sprinkle little crushed praline along the way for the crunch, topping it with flambé fruits with brandy would be like cherry on the cake.

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Brief About The Writer:

Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef, is a Mumbai-based Author, Writer, Healthy Eating - Lifestyle Specialist, Food Designer, Academician & having mastered over 33 International Cuisines, is also a Food & Beverage Consultant. He has worked with esteemed properties like the Taj Group of Hotels, Kuwait Airways to name a few, he has been awarded several Global and National Awards for his outstanding performance in his chosen field he loves to share his knowledge and experience of over 2 decades with the Food & Hospitality Industry.

New Opening | IHG® Hotels and Resorts announces its first opening of 2021 in India with Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpur

IHG® Hotels & Resorts one of the world’s leading hotel companies opens door to the newest hotel in the Tricity – Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpur in association with ABC Sites Pvt Ltd. Featuring 131 keys with scenic city views, the hotel is located on Chandigarh- Ambala highway connecting the city of Chandigarh to all famous landmarks and attractions in the Northern belt. Distanced just 20 minutes away from the Chandigarh International Airport and 25 minutes from the Chandigarh Railway Station, the hotel is an ideal destination for leisure and business travelers alike.

Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpur opens to a capacious lobby area and appoints modern rooms, finished with technological additions and boasts of the largest gym in the Chandigarh city, spread across an incredible area of 10,000 sq ft. Coupled with a dedicated team of experts and hospitable staff members, the hotel also offers two distinctive dining options; an All Day Dining Restaurant – Viva that brings together Indian, Italian and Asian cuisine and the Lounge Bar, overlooking the city, serving as the perfect spot for the guests to unwind and relax. 

Besides, the new hotel provides an expansive indoor and outdoor space for corporate and social gatherings comprising of an impressive 8340 sq. ft. poolside terrace and 26000 sq. ft. of banqueting space. The incomparable banqueting space with 7200 sq. ft. of pillar-less grand ballroom and 4440 sq. ft. of pre-function area and rooftop pool terrace on the 14th floor that gives a 360-degree view of the city, makes the newly opened hotel a perfect venue for all kind of celebrations and events. 

Commenting on the inauguration of the new hotels, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, IHG, South West Asia adds, “We are delighted to open our second hotel in Chandigarh under our globally renowned brand Holiday Inn, as the tri-City area is increasingly gaining traction, both as a commercial hub and tourist destination. India has been a domestic-focused market for IHG and the addition of Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpur to our brand portfolio will cater to the demand for quality accommodation and MICE requirements in the city.” 

Mr. NK Sharma - Director, ABC Sites Pvt Ltd adds, “It has been a pleasure to associate with IHG Hotels & resorts, a reputed and trusted hospitality brand for the opening of Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpaur. We are pleased to inaugurate this new hotel and looking forward to welcoming guests. The brand Holiday Inn, holds a strong name in the country and is a great fit for a market like Chandigarh. Benefitting from its strategic location and contemporary design, we are certain the new addition to the portfolio will soon emerge as a popular choice amongst the travelers entering the city.”   

Holiday Inn Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpaur and IHG Way of Clean 
As part of the IHG family, Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpaur will comply with IHG’s Way of Clean industry-leading standards, including the new IHG Clean Promise. IHG’s global Clean Promise was announced in May as part of an overhaul of IHG Way of Clean to introduce heightened cleanliness standards to protect guests in the wake of COVID. Using new, science-led protocols and service measures, partnering with industry-leading experts Cleveland Clinic, Ecolab and Diversey, and launching a global IHG Clean Promise, these strengthened measures will give guests greater confidence and hotel teams the protection needed.

Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpaur is the latest addition to one of the world’s largest hotel companies, where guests can earn and redeem exclusive member benefits at over 5,900 hotels and major airlines globally through the IHG Rewards Club . 

IHG® currently has 42 hotels operating across five brands in SWA, including Six Senses, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts®, Crowne Plaza®, Holiday Inn® , Holiday Inn Resort® and Holiday Inn Express®, and a strong pipeline of 54 hotels due to open in the next 2-3 years. 

Numbers as of September 30th, 2020 

IHG® (InterContinental Hotels Group) is a global organization with a broad portfolio of hotel brands, including Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental® Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton® Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo®, EVEN® Hotels, HUALUXE® Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts, voco™, Holiday Inn® Hotels & Resorts , Holiday Inn Express®, Holiday Inn Club Vacations®, avid™ hotels, Staybridge Suites®, Atwell Suites™, and Candlewood Suites®. 

IHG franchises, leases, manages or owns nearly 6,000 hotels and 890,000 guest rooms in  more than 100 countries, with approximately 1,900 hotels in its development pipeline. IHG also manages IHG® Rewards Club, our global loyalty program, which has more than 100 million enrolled members.

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group’s holding company and is incorporated in Great Britain and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 400,000 people work across IHG’s hotels and corporate offices globally.

Visit www.ihg.com for hotel information and reservations and www.ihgrewardsclub.com for more on IHG Rewards Club. For our latest news, visit: https://www.ihgplc.com/en/news-and-media and follow us on social media at: https://twitter.com/ihgcorporate, www.facebook.com/ihgcorporate, and www.linkedin.com/company/intercontinental-hotels-group.

Appointment | Kunal Shanker joins InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort as General Manager

In his new role, Shanker will oversee the complete operations and management of the hotels along with the senior leadership teams, to ensure the highest levels of guest engagement, profitability and continue to build on the positioning and reputation of InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort.

InterContinental Hotel Group, South West Asia has appointed Kunal Shanker as the General Manager of InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort.

In his new role, Shanker will oversee the complete operations and management of the hotels along with the senior leadership teams, to ensure the highest levels of guest engagement, profitability and continue to build on the positioning and reputation of InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort.

A well-rounded hotelier, Shanker brings with him over 22 years of extensive hospitality experience both in commercial and operational roles.

Having worked in different capacities of Director Sales & Marketing, Executive Assistant Manager, General Manager and Cluster General Manager in diverse geographies such as Kathmandu, Cochin, Pune, Mumbai, Amritsar, New Delhi, Shanker is an extremely versatile leader with a proven track record of adapting to diverse cultures and regions and driving performance.

A seasoned high potential General Manager, Shanker over the years has honed his skills in understanding nuanced divergent business and luxury market and is recognized as a highly motivated and dynamic leader. 

Technically sound, he has pursued excellence, consistently ensuring that his team performs at the highest level. He has independently handled large operations and possesses an astute business acumen with a keen understanding of finance, marketing strategy development, communications. Passionate about talent development, he has mentored many industry leaders in his tenure.

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AWARENESS | The Resort undertakes unique campaign to create traffic safety awareness on Mumbai’s roads

Oh Lord! ‘Yamraj’ warns traffic rule violators on Madh-Marve Road

The Resort undertakes unique campaign to create traffic safety awareness on Mumbai’s roads

On Wednesday, commuters on Mumbai’s Madh Marve Road were in for a surprise when they found themselves face to face with none other than Yamraj – the God of death!

The Resort, Mumbai undertook a unique initiative wherein a volunteer dressed up as Yamraj directly confronted drivers and motorists if they were found violating traffic rules. The campaign purported that if a driver or a rider was thinking of violating traffic rules, they were stopped by the Lord of Death, Yamraj himelf! Yamraj did not just stop motorists, he also appealed to them to follow traffic rules! He also got assurance from people that they will not violate traffic rules and will care for their safety.

The Resort launched this unique initiative in a creative manner to spread road safety awareness and to educate people on the many fatalities that occur if rules are not followed. A novel idea, and one that immediately grabbed attention, the campaign seemed to be successful in making drivers think before they violated traffic rules. Road safety is among one of the major concerns of Mumbai’s traffic police. Time and again, the police have come out with campaigns on road safety, yet people end up breaking traffic rules. 

When he stopped people, ‘Yamraj’ also ensured that he made them aware about various traffic rules like the use of helmets for two-wheeler riders, use of seat-belts for four-wheeler drivers, safe distance between vehicles, use of indicators, not using mobile phone while driving or riding vehicles and avoiding over-speeding. 

A little distance away from where Yamraj stood, there were also boards with slogans written on them that ranged from Yamraj ko dekhke darr gaye kya to Aapka waqt abhi khatam nahi hua, gaadi dheere chalaiye and Wear helmet, wear seat belt to Ghar pe koi appka intezar kar raha hai, drive slow. 

Talking about the initiative, Satyajit Kotwal, The Resort said, “The common psychology is that people are likely to refrain from an act if they are truly afraid of repercussions. Police try their best to warn people and make them aware about following traffic safety rules. But we thought the face of Yamraj will haunt them the next time they violate traffic rules on the road. I think we were quite successful in making people aware through this campaign.”

NEWS | Arne Sorenson, who led Marriott International's transformation into the world's largest hotel chain, has died of cancer at the age of 62

Arne Sorenson, who led Marriott International's transformation into the world's largest hotel chain, has died of cancer at the age of 62.

Mr Sorenson was the first non-family member to head the company when he became chief executive in 2012.

He steered the firm's 2016 purchase of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, which included brands such as the Westin.

Mr Sorenson, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2019, had reduced his role earlier this month.

"Arne was an exceptional executive - but more than that, he was an exceptional human being," Marriott executive chairman JW Marriott Jr said in a statement announcing the death.

"Arne loved every aspect of this business and relished time spent touring our hotels and meeting associates around the world. He had an uncanny ability to anticipate where the hospitality industry was headed and position Marriott for growth."

Marriott, which has more than 7,500 properties around the world and owns 30 brands, said it planned to appoint a new chief executive in the next two weeks.

'Bravura performance'

Born in Japan, Mr Sorenson was the son and grandson of Lutheran missionaries.

He trained as a lawyer and worked in Washington, DC, where he started to represent Marriott in 1992 before being recruited to work in-house for the company a few years later.

GM Of The Day Initiative @ Grand Hyatt Mumbai

CHRIS K. FRANZEN, Area Vice President –  West India & General Manager –  Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel & Residences has been running the GM of the Day Initiative for a while now. A best practice from his days in Oman, Qatar and now India. We at hospemag loved it!

Shashank Pathare was assigned to be the ‘General Manager of the Day’ on 18 January 2021.

Below is the initiative in detail.

GM of the Day - January 2021 - Grand Hyatt Mumbai by Prabhjot Bedi on Scribd

More about Mumbai Grand Hyatt

Knacks of Upselling by Indraneel Tripathi

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal celebrates 3 years of bespoke hospitality

Courtyard By Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal is celebrating 3 years of bespoke hospitality all through the month of February.

Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking Nagavara Lake in Hebbal, the hotel offers luxurious rooms, many with lovely views of Hebbal bringing you comfort away from home. With the kickstart of the property’s 3rd year, the hotel is offering a limited edition of room packages and food and beverages. The package is priced from INR 3300/- onward.

Guests can check-in for 3 nights and pay up only for 2 and pamper yourself in lavish rooms with breakfast for 2; 30% discount on spa and f&b along with special welcome amenities with additional discounts at their rooftop dining restaurant Nazaara and at Glazed, the dessert lounge for the sweet-tooth lovers and much much more.

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty appoints Chef Yogender Pal as Executive Chef

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty has appointed Chef Yogender Pal as Executive Chef. With more than two decades of culinary experience, he has worked with leading Indian and International luxury hospitality brands such as The Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, Marriott, Hilton, Intercontinental Hotels and Claridges Hotels and Resorts, bringing a wealth of experience to his new role.

Chef Yogi, as he is popularly known, has been instrumental in opening specialty restaurants, commissioning kitchens and creating innovative dining concepts.

His culinary and administrative achievements have been recognized by major publications and has received the Times Food Award for Treforni (Best Italian 2018), Times Food award for RIKA (Best Modern Asian) and other recognitions. He has participated in leading food festivals across the globe.

About joining Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty, Chef Pal says, “I am excited to join the fantastic Grand Hyatt Kochi and be a part of the team there. I look forward to exploring the rich culture of Kerala and use it to curate unique experiences for the guests visiting the state.”

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Journey to Tomorrow': IHG commits to drive change for people, communities and the planet

IHG Hotels & Resorts, recently launches 'Journey to Tomorrow,' a series of ambitious new commitments to make a positive difference for our people, communities and planet.  The company has announced a decade of action as new insights reveal that consumers overwhelmingly want to choose hotels that operate in the right way.

Guided by IHG’s purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good, IHG will work side by side with those who stay, work and partner with the company, to help shape the future of responsible travel – supporting colleagues and making a positive difference to local communities, while preserving the planet’s beauty and diversity long into the future.  

Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO commented, “The Travel & Tourism sector plays a huge role in enriching livelihoods and economies around the world, and we must ensure its growth contributes positively to the communities, natural ecosystems and cultural heritage upon which it depends. I’m pleased to see the clear, achievable, and actionable 10-year ambitions outlined in IHG Hotels & Resorts’ 'Journey to Tomorrow' plan, which will help support the sustainable development of our sector. "

“IHG is a key contributor to our Sustainability Taskforce, and we are delighted to come together once again on this important initiative, which aligns with our broader sustainability goals. It will play a crucial role in our sector in a post-COVID world, and this initiative will help push forward that agenda. By working together towards these common goals, we can ensure that the communities and destinations that make this world so special will continue to thrive for many generations to come.”

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Discover India’s Unexplored Destinations with IHCL Hotels

Travellers can imbibe the peaceful and relaxing environment of Madurai, discover the hidden coffee trails of Chikmagalur, and immerse themselves in true royalty at towns such as Gwalior and Jaipur.

Enthusiastic travellers can go off the beaten path and discover India’s lesser known destinations that offer  intimate, exclusive and authentic experiences, away from the crowds. Guests can travel to these hidden jewels with Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) hotels which are ideal for a getaway or for bonding with family and friends. 

From imbibing the peaceful and relaxing environment of Madurai to discovering the hidden coffee trails of Chikmagalur, travellers can enjoy nature at its best. Located at the top of the Pasumalai hill, the hotel in Madurai is a perfect vantage point to enjoy the picturesque views of the temple town and the Kodai hills.  The scenic hillside resort in Chikmagalur is perched on the slopes of the Sahyadris with colonial styled cottages, set amidst lush greenery.

Travellers can immerse themselves in true royalty at towns such as Gwalior and Jaipur. They are known for their vibrant culture with unique art, music and literature, as well as age-old traditions that are still practiced and preserved by the locals over generations. They can live through the bygone era at the authentic palace in Gwalior or experience a slice of history with our hotel in Ramgarh, Jaipur, a favourite getaway for Maharaja Man Singh and Maharani Gayatri Devi. The heritage hotel is a former hunting ground of the Maharajas.

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Puneites have lauded the effort of hoteliers, restaurateurs: George Bennet Kuruvilla

The Westin Pune Koregaon Park is a sprawling property situated in the city’s Koregaon Park Annexe in Ghorpadi. The pet-friendly hotel has seven event venues, including the city’s largest lawn space in a five star. The 277-key hotel also has two full-size squash courts for guests.

ETHospitalityWorld spoke with George Bennet Kuruvilla, General Manager about his property and the Pune market in general.

“The Pune market is vibrant and the city has immense significance. It blends the old with the new seamlessly. Called the Oxford of the East and a Satellite city with Mumbai, it has a strong technology base, prominent automobile and manufacturing hubs, real-estate and IT Parks, medical, defence and education installations,” Kuruvilla said, adding that he considered the Westin Pune Koregaon Park to be the city’s landmark 5 Star haven of wellness and renewal, with great views and high quality food and drink experiences.

“We have been learning and evolving each day and remain focused in our efforts to establish ourselves formidably in the new normal. Contact-free dining and stay experiences are becoming a premium value proposition. We continue to innovate on this aspect,” Kuruvilla said about how his hotel was evolving to fit into the new normal.

He gave us some examples of what his hotel was doing, like implementing self-check-in options that were compatible with smart phones using the Marriott Bonvoy app for a seamless and contactless arrival and departure experience.

As a part of their food and drink initiative and guest outreach they have been delivering, through Marriott on Wheels, F&B experiences to homes and offices. Their Brunch on Table concept in the restaurants was also appreciated by guests. They had also created exclusive drive-in zones and takeaway points. Kuruvilla felt proud to be the first to implement the weekend drive-in cinema on the hotel lawns with contact free booking and dining options.

“Each day has also provided us new lessons for reinvention. Besides heightened hygiene and sanitation protocols with our Marriott commitment to clean programs, technology is the other piece which plays a big role in enabling many of these experiences,” he added.

“The city’s hotel occupancies are ramping up slowly quarter on quarter. Like Bengaluru, the city hotels depend largely on international and domestic corporate travel segments to fill up its capacity. This is going to take some time given the challenges with air travel at the moment. That said, socials, celebrations, staycations, dining and wellness experiences continue to purpose out and become generators for the hotels,” Kuruvilla said when asked about the business prospects of the Pune market.

“For the industry at large Pune has an aspiring audience, ever willing to explore, looking to go out, indulge in value experiences be it food and drink, wellness or stay. Puneites in many ways have lauded the efforts, enthusiasm and spirit of the hoteliers and restaurateurs here big or small and come out in good numbers to experience stays and eating out. By following safety measures patrons have minimized the Fear of human contact and overcome the fear of missing out as well,” he said in conclusion

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Lords Hotels and Resorts emerges as the most preferred choice for destination weddings

Ideal destinations such as Aarya Lords Club & Resort at Rajkot, Lords Four A Resort at Birpur (Jammu), Vishal Lords Inn at Gir (Gujarat), Lords Resort at Chotila, Lords Plaza at Nathdwara , Lords Resort at Bhavnagar Aakar Lords Inn Saputara to mention a few are preferred by guests for their once in a life time event.

Lords Hotels and Resorts a leading mid-market hotel chain with a presence in 40 cities 11 states and 2 countries has emerged as the most preferred choice for destination weddings.

Ideal destinations such as  Aarya Lords Club & Resort at Rajkot, Lords Four A Resort at Birpur (Jammu), Vishal Lords Inn at Gir (Gujarat), Lords Resort at Chotila, Lords Plaza at Nathdwara , Lords Resort at Bhavnagar Aakar Lords Inn Saputara to mention a few are preferred by guests for their once in a lifetime event. 

Shyam Pratap Singh, Corporate Sales Manager commented “People want to enjoy special locations while taking precautions. All our hotels have not only met but exceeded cleaning quality requirements and completed the COVID 19 checklist and hygiene audit. All the venues are thoroughly sanitized prior to the event , ultraviolet (UV) hand sanitization stations have been installed, The staff wears Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kit , thermal screening of guest at the time of arrival. Different color and designer face mask for Bride and bridegroom side are some the new innovative measures introduced by us."

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Ramada by Wyndham Lucknow hotel and Convention Center & Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Lucknow appoints Gaurrav K Magoo as GM

The Ramada by Wyndham Lucknow hotel and Convention Center & Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Lucknow has announced that Gaurrav K Magoo has been named General Manager for the hotel, effective 20th December 2020.

In his new role, Magoo will be responsible for overseeing the hotel’s positioning, staff, operations, sales, and marketing, etc.

Previously, Magoo served as General Manager for The Raintree St. Mary’s Road, a 5-star luxury hotel based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, responsible primary strategic business leader with overall responsibility of operations of Hotel to achieve customer (guests, employees, corporate and owners) satisfaction and quality service while meeting/exceeding financial goals.

Gaurrav K Magoo is a talented and experienced hospitality professional and will play a key role in ensuring that the Ramada by Wyndham Lucknow hotel and Convention Centre & Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Lucknow continues providing guests with the same high-quality service and exceptional value that it has become known for in the Lucknow community,” said Mr. Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, owner of the Ramada by Wyndham Lucknow hotel and Convention Center & Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Lucknow

Magoo is a native of Jammu, J&K and a graduate of IHM Goa where he received his degree in hospitality and did his MBA after completing hospitality studies

The Ramada by Wyndham Lucknow hotel and Convention Center & Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Lucknow is a two property hotel with 350 room offering guests single, double and suite accommodations. Property features include complimentary breakfast, pool, fitness center, wellness studio, gaming zone, activity center, biggest banqueting and convention space in Uttar Pradesh.

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