Katrin Herz joins Marriott Hotel Downtown Abu Dhabi as Multi Property GM

Marriott Hotel Downtown and Marriott Executive Apartments Downtown Abu Dhabi has appointed Katrin Herz as the new multi property general manager. With over 20 years of luxury hotel experience, Herz is all set to spearhead the team at the dynamic business hotel located in the heart of Abu Dhabi. 

Herz worked her way up the ranks from the housekeeping department at Hotel Arts, Barcelona (Spain), to lending her skills in key managerial positions of hotel operational departments at The Ritz Carlton in Wolfsburg (Germany), Key Biscayne (Miami), Lisbon (Portugal), Moscow (Russia), Dubai (UAE). She  most recently served as general manager of the Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz Carlton Hotel, Muscat (Oman), where she spent five years, from 2015 to 2020. 

Her inspirational, approachable and results-driven work ethic won her the title of “General Manager of the Year Award” (2019) and placed her in the “Top 30 Women in the Hotel Industry” by recognized industry publications. 

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Marriott International Signs Agreement With Mario Julen To Bring The Ritz-Carlton Brand To The Swiss Alps

The Ritz-Carlton, Zermatt will mark a new era of unrivalled elegance in one of Europe's highest mountain ranges

Marriott International today announced it has signed an agreement with Mario Julen to bring The Ritz-Carlton brand to Zermatt, debuting the first Ritz-Carlton ski resort in Europe. Expected to open in 2026, the 69-guest room property will bring the brand’s legendary service and elegant design to the world-famous Swiss resort destination. Once open, the property will serve as the second Ritz-Carlton hotel in Switzerland, joining The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva.

“We are thrilled to announce this milestone signing with Mario Julen who has a fantastic vision for the project,” said Satya Anand, President, Marriott International Europe, Middle East and Africa. “Zermatt is synonymous with outstanding skiing, mountaineering and jaw-dropping scenery. As the epitome of modern luxury, this landmark development and stunning destination will enhance our portfolio of iconic Ritz-Carlton properties across the globe, offering guests an exciting opportunity to experience Zermatt’s year-round snowy peaks, world-class ski slopes, and the iconic Matterhorn mountain. Today’s signing reflects the heightened demand for our luxury hospitality brands across Europe, Middle East and Africa.”

The Ritz-Carlton, Zermatt will be designed by award-winning Paris-based firm AW² led by partner architects Reda Amalou and Stéphanie Ledoux, with the architectural and interior design expected to offer a refined take on the classic mountain chalet. The property will offer unobstructed views of Matterhorn from both guestrooms and dining establishments. Design plans are slated to feature two restaurants and two bars, an outdoor terrace for alfresco dining, and a private dining room for intimate gatherings. An array of recreational activities such as ‘ski-in ski-out’ access to the slopes, a tranquil spa with a gym and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools are part of the vision for guests to enjoy. The resort is also expected to offer meeting and event facilitie

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Deepak Dandge joins THE Park Mumbai as Executive Chef

THE Park Mumbai has appointed Deepak Dandge as their Executive Chef. With an extensive experience of over 19 years in the hospitality industry, with immaculate knowledge and expertise in the culinary field, Chef Dandge cultivated exciting culinary techniques in curating and stimulating, personalised and memorable dining experiences by creating unique and gastronomical flavour combinations for all guests.

Well known for his passion for Asian cuisine and unique ability to combine ingredients from multiple cuisines to produce exotic and delicious flavors, Chef Dandge is sure to elevate guest experience at the award-winning restaurant Meishi. He is all set to offer contemporary and unexpected flare at our soon to open Flyt -Rooftop Lounge.

In his expansive career span, Chef Deepak Dandge has handled culinary operations for leading hotels such as IHG hotels, Sofitel, Marriott, Taj, Starwood, Orchid, The Raintree.

Having mastered the art of various cuisines ranging from Mughlai to Mediterranean and more. Chef Deepak Dandge specializes in Asian, Italian, Mediterranean and South African dishes as he believes that these cuisines have the scope to innovate and leaves behind an interesting legacy to be remembered forever.

A student of Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Chef Dandge strikes inspiration from seemingly mundane places. In his early college days, he would wander around the highways near Mumbai and observe the way food was cooked at Robust kitchens.

Hailing from a Maharashtrian family, a simple but delectable mutton dish with coconut gravy that his mother cooks was the dish that got him his first job.

In his leisure time, Chef Dandge enjoys reading books about molecular gastronomy and his interests lies in consuming knowledge on the science of food, he finds solace in travelling to the outskirts of the city for good authentic food and connecting with nature.

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Marriott International launched an Limited Time Offer

Marriott International has announced the launch of a Limited Time offer, curated specially for their hotels across South Asia. Whether booking for leisure or business, guests can avail their stays from 3rd January to 31st March 2021. Making the deal all the more sweeter, as guests can avail a super saver discount of 21% for stays from now on till 31 st March 2021.

Guests can opt for any of the following offerings at the hotels in Eastern India (JW Marriott Kolkata – 21%, Courtyard by Marriott, Siliguri – 21% & Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata – 21%), coupled with the flexibility to modify their reservation at any point in time with no cancellation fee. Spend your time in luxury whether you are on a business or for a leisure trip, with Marriott you will find safe environs, first-class amenities & distinctive service.

Guests can avail of the offer from 1, January to 31, January 2021. In recognition of the current scenario, guests can request contact-less room check-in along with the convenience of paying digitally. Marriott International believes foremost in the health and safety of every guest and has in place enhanced hygiene & sanitization practices across all their hotels.

Moët Hennessy's Sparkling Wine brand Chandon bags Multiple International Recognition Awards In 2020

Chandon, the ‘made in India’ sparkling wine from the Moët Hennessy portfolio which combines age old sparkling wine making practices with the finest of locally sourced grapes has had a sparkling 2020 by winning eight awards across categories! Chandon India won two awards each at the Decanter World Wine Awards and International Wine Challenge (IWC) and in addition, was recognized with four prestigious awards at The Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships (CSWWC). It is the only Indian sparkling wine to have won awards in each of the nominated categories across platforms and to be bestowed as the National Champion for Best Indian Sparkling Wine 2020 for the Brut Rosé at The Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships.

 Moët Hennessy’s homegrown Sparkling Wine brand Chandon bags Multiple International Recognition Awards In 2020

Chandon India has won numerous accolades at Decanter World Wine Awards, International Wine Challenge & The Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships~

India, 21 January 2021: Chandon, the ‘made in India’ sparkling wine from the Moët Hennessy portfolio which combines age old sparkling wine making practices with the finest of locally sourced grapes has had a sparkling 2020 by winning eight awards across categories! Chandon India won two awards each at the Decanter World Wine Awards and International Wine Challenge (IWC) and in addition, was recognized with four prestigious awards at The Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships (CSWWC).

Chandon is the only Indian sparkling wine to have won awards in each of the nominated categories across platforms and to be bestowed as the National Champion for Best Indian Sparkling Wine 2020 for the Brut Rosé at The Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships.

Competition Name

Year

Award Won

Brand Name

Decanter World Wine Awards

2020

Silver

Chandon Brut – NV

Decanter World Wine Awards

2020

Bronze

Chandon Brut Rosé - NV

International Wine Challenge

2020

Bronze

Chandon Brut Rosé - NV

International Wine Challenge

2020

Bronze

Chandon Brut - NV

The Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships

2020

Bronze

Chandon Brut - NV

The Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships

2020

Gold

Chandon Brut Rosé - NV

The Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships

2020

Best in class

Chandon Brut Rosé - NV

The Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships

2020

National Champion India

Chandon Brut Rosé - NV

The Decanter World Wine Awards, The Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships (CSWWC) & the International Wine Challenge (IWC) are three of the world’s most prestigious wine competitions and championships. These international platforms and awards bring together a plethora of spirits and wines to showcase their products amongst notable wine experts that include Masters of Wine and Master Sommeliers. While the CSWWC is in its 6th year and is the only international sparkling wine competition judged by sparkling wine specialists, the IWC which is in its 37th year is accepted as the world’s most rigorous, impartial & influential annual wine competition. The rigorous IWC judging process assesses every wine ‘blind’ and judges each for its faithfulness to style, region and vintage.  

On receiving these awards, Mr. Rajesh Dixit, Estate Director, Chandon India said, “We are extremely thrilled to have received such high accolades for Chandon India! It is indeed a joyous occasion as both our product offerings, Chandon Brut and Chandon Rosé have received a badge of honor for their supreme quality and standards at such esteemed international platforms. These awards validate our commitment and innovation, thus being able to compete in the global markets.”

The award-winning sparkling wines, Chandon Brut and Chandon Brut Rosé reveal complex flavors and intense aromas which is bound to excite the senses. Pale straw yellow to a golden hue with fine persistent bubbles, Chandon Brut is created with a combination of Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. A creamy texture balanced with a zesty acidity with a soft dry finish. Whereas Chandon Rosé is an elegant, fresh salmon pink color with fine persistent bubbles. Made with Shiraz, it has intense aromas of ripe cherries with flavors of red fruits and soft grapefruit undertones that lead to an intense and creamy finish.

Launched in October 2013, Moët Hennessy India introduced Chandon Brut and Chandon Rosé handcrafted from grapes, homegrown in Nashik's Dindori region. Chandon is the first offering from Moët Hennessy to be produced in India.

facebook.com/ChandonIndia | Instagram: @chandonindia

About Chandon:

In the late 1950s, Moët & Chandon, the world’s leading Champagne House since 1743, began exploring the potential for producing world-class sparkling wines outside of the Champagne region, under the ‘Chandon’ name. The first Chandon Estate was created in 1959 in Argentina followed by California (1973), Brazil (1973) Australia (1986) and China (2013). Following in the pioneering steps of the founders and continuing its search for new winemaking territories, Moët Hennessy determined that the Nashik region had the potential to produce world-class, premium quality sparkling wine. Chandon is the first offering from Moët Hennessy to be made in India. Combining centuries-old winemaking practices with the finest local grapes, Chandon is available in two variants:  Chandon Brut and Chandon Brut Rosé. In 2015 the Chandon India winery was awarded an ISO 22000:2005 Certificate of Compliance for their Food Safety Management System – receiving of grapes from vineyards, storage, manufacturing and bottling of sparkling wine-Category E.

Club Mahindra launches its most awaited Jaipur and Arookutty Resort

Club Mahindra Jaipur offers 72 rooms including 12 One-Bedroom Apartments, 50 Studios and 10 Hotel Units.

Club Mahindra, Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Limited’s flagship brand, launched Club Mahindra Jaipur Resort in North West and Club Mahindra Arookutty Resort in the South of India.

Situated at strategic locations and about an hour’s drive from the international airports of Jaipur and Cochin respectively, the resorts offer curated experiences to deliver a truly memorable travel experience for members.

Excited on the launch, Miguel Munoz, Chief Resort Officer, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Limited said, ”It has been a troubled year with restrictions on travel and with our Club Mahindra Jaipur and Arookutty Resorts launch, we invite you to experience our upgraded, safe hospitality. Centrally located, these are our 5th and 9th resort in Rajasthan and Kerala, respectively. These newly opened resorts exhibit rich cultures, luxury designs, local cuisine flavors as well as curated experiences to Make Every Moment Magical for you and your family”.

Located in the cultural jewel of India amid majestic buildings, beautiful forts, and Club Mahindra Jaipur offers 72 rooms including 12 One-Bedroom Apartments, 50 Studios and 10 Hotel Units. Its convenient location, international facilities and warm hospitality will surely provide you a home away from home. The resort offers one a chance to visit the historical monuments as well as explore the famous bazaars.

Situated in the South Kerala Division of Alappuzha, Arookutty is one of the undiscovered locations. With over 43 acres of lush greenery, magnificent trees and water bodies, it is where you can experience nature at its resplendent best.

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Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty appoints Ena Roy as the Room Divisions Manager

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty has announced the appointment of Ena Roy as the Room Divisions Manager of the waterfront luxury resort.

Having taken charge in November 2020, Roy has a combined experience of 14 years in rooms division in the hospitality industry. As Rooms Division Manager, Roy will manage guest experiences and room operations with detail.

Hailing from Kolkata, she loves watching Bollywood and Bengali movies and enjoys travelling. Apart from her term at Park Hyatt Chennai, Hyatt Regency Chandigarh and Kolkata, Roy has been associated with international brands such as Accor, Roda, Radisson in various leadership positions.

In her previous role, she managed the Housekeeping, Front Office and Health Club operations at Radisson Blu New Delhi.

Kochi is an emerging destination in Kerala and I am delighted to join back in the Hyatt family. I look forward to working with my energetic team to create unique guest experiences and memories at our property,” says Ena Roy.

JW Marriott Kolkata appoints Vikram Sharma as Human Resource Director

Vikram Sharma has earned his repute of a veteran HR professional over the years of diligence, specialising in strategic planning and a subject matter expert. He has fostered his talents by excelling in the fields of strategic recruitment planning, Manpower Resource Deployment, Compliance and Documentation and the likes. Dedicated and organized, Vikram now graces the pivotal position of Director of Human Resources at JW Marriott Kolkata.

In his current stint with JW Marriott Kolkata, he is employing his gamut of expertise to administer recruitment, and strategic HRM, training and development accompanied by other administrative responsibilities. Furthermore, he is also responsible for Employee Relations and Retention by ascertaining trends and patterns for making recommendations to management to improve motivation. Thus, increasing the retention and efficiency of the employees. His proficiency in conjuring up stratagems to tackle concerns of the employees and their efficiency has brought to the table new policies to achieve business objectives.

This self-motivated and vibrant leader started his expedition in Hospitality career after graduating from The Institute of Hotel Management Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition and lucratively completing a prestigious degree of Masters in leadership from XLRI, Jamshedpur. He started his career with Hyatt Hotels & Resorts and later got associated with Marriott International.

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Havmor Ice Cream appoints Komal Anand as Managing Director

Havmor Ice Cream, owned by Lotte Confectionery Ltd., appoints Komal Anand as Managing Director with effect from January 12, 2020. Anand has worked in various leadership assignments and has been instrumental in leading multiple business transformation agendas.

Prior to Havmor Ice Cream, he was associated with McCain Foods, where he played a key role to build a strong and profitable business by having led multiple functions such as Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain & Quality. He brings with him 24 years of management experience across food and beverage and CPG companies such as PepsiCo & Reckitt Benckiser, Dabur, and Reliance Retail.

Speaking about his new role, Komal Anand, Managing Director, Havmor Ice Cream said, “I am delighted to be a part of the Havmor family. The year 2020 was challenging but 2021 has brought in green shoots of optimism and growth. It will be my endeavor to strengthen and grow the brand’s reach and consumer focus with an extensive and rapidly expanding array of delightful offerings and make Havmor a household name in every part of the country.”

Anand has successfully created a niche for himself across various profiles and in his current role, he will be responsible for building & driving the strategic road map for future expansion. His diversified yet complementary skillsets will be critical in building the overall business and expanding the brand's presence across the country. Under Anand’s leadership, the brand aspires to position itself as a leader in the category.

Tata Starbucks launches a special menu curated by Chef Sanjeev Kapoor and Tata Sampann

Tata Starbucks has announced the launch of its limited-edition menu curated by celebrity chef, Sanjeev Kapoor in partnership with Tata Sampann. #SanjeevKapoorMenuAtStarbucks features a range of delicious food items handcrafted with high-quality ingredients, offering various global classics with a local Indian twist. Starbucks customers can enjoy an enhanced food experience with these delightful new additions.

“We are delighted to partner with Chef Sanjeev Kapoor and Tata Sampann to launch this special menu that truly reflects the best of global and local food trends. We are united in our shared ideologies and commitment towards bringing moments of delight to our valued consumers through every experience.” said Navin Gurnaney, ceo, Tata Starbucks Pvt. Ltd. “We are confident that the New Sanjeev Kapoor Menu at Starbucks with its vegetarian, vegan and non-vegetarian options will give our customers a truly elevated experience.”

Speaking on the collaboration, Richa Arora, President, Packaged Foods, India, Tata Consumer Products states, “As a brand, Tata Sampann is committed to nutrition by bringing traditional Indian food wisdom to the modern Indian plate. This partnership with Tata Starbucks takes forward our shared belief of bringing the very best to the people of India. It’s an exciting menu because it takes traditional Indian ingredients and puts them at the heart of Starbucks’ contemporary food experiences. We are confident that customers will relish this special menu crafted by Chef Sanjeev Kapoor with Tata Sampann ingredients that are nutritional and a delight for the palate.”

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Vegan restaurant in France wins a Michelin Guide star at virtual awards event

Avegan restaurant in the French southwest on Monday won a Michelin Guide star, the first for an establishment serving only animal-free products in France.

Claire Vallee runs the ONA restaurant in the city of Ares, near Bordeaux, which she launched in 2016 thanks to crowdfunding from supporters and a loan from a green bank.

"It felt like I got hit by a train," Vallee told AFP about the moment she received a call from the Guide Michelin on Thursday informing her of its decision.

In addition to the classic star award, Vallee also won a green star, which Michelin introduced only last year to reward establishments with a strong record for ethical practices.

ONA, which stands for "Origine Non Animale" ("Animal-free origin"), is "the first vegan restaurant in France to win a star", a Guide Michelin spokeswoman told AFP.

Vallee offered seven dishes on her gourmet menu before she had to close ONA because of Covid-19 restrictions. Her favorite combinations involve pine, boletus mushroom and sake, or celery, tonka and amber ale

Shridhar Nair joins The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts as Vice President- Operations

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has announced the promotion of�� Shridhar Nair as Vice President- Operations with immediate effect.

In his new role, Nair will handle the operations of The Leela group and will relocate to the Corporate Office in Mumbai by April this year.

“ We are delighted to have Shridhar lead the Operations at The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. With his profound market knowledge, strong business acumen and deep understanding of The Leela brand, we are confident that Shridhar will add tremendous value to the operations as The Leela continues on its next new phase of growth and development,” said Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Operating Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts.

Shridhar Nair, a home grown talent of The Leela, joined the company in 1997 as a Management Trainee. For over two decades he has held several key positions across many properties of the group.

A winner of multiple awards including Hotelier India General Manager of the Year , HOSI Best General Manager and Business World General Manager of The Year amongst others, Shridhar Nair is an industry veteran recognized for his operational excellence. His vast experience, hands-on leadership style, ability to manage refurbishment and renovation projects across different hotels and resorts are distinguishing facets of his career journey with The Leela. His most recent position was General Manager The Leela, Goa.

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Brand | Choice Hotels India opens new hotel in Dehradun

Choice Hotels India is on an expansion spree with yet another hotel - Comfort Inn Dehradun opening in Dehradun, the winter capital of Uttarakhand in North India.

Vilas Pawar, the CEO, Choice Hotels India, said, “We are committed to offering international experience with world-class services at best value proposition to our guests. We offer warm Indian hospitality with outstanding experience to our guests that is safe, valued, friendly, and affordable. The hotel has an ideal location which would attract both leisure and business travelers and would be perfect for short family leisure breaks".

Comfort Inn Dehradun is a modern and aesthetically designed hotel ideally located on Sahastradhara Road. The hotel is a 45-minute drive from Jolly Grant International Airport and 6 km from the railway station. The hotel is close to Rajpur Road famous for shopping, restaurants & entertainment. Tourist attractions like Clock Tower, Robber’s Cave, Tapkeshwar Temple & Sahastradhara are easily accessible from the hotel.

Comfort Inn Dehradun offers a wide range of guest services and on-site facilities for an enjoyable stay. Spacious guest rooms include premium bedding and impressive decor. The well-appointed guest rooms are equipped with modern amenities including LCD TV, in-room dining, writing desk, electronic safe, tea/coffee maker & a minibar. For the comfort and convenience of guests, the hotel offers laundry services and round clock in-room dining.

Sarovar Hotels organizes its third edition of “Sarovar Virtual Showcase”

“The virtual showcase highlighted the key USPs and value proposition of our three resorts to key tour operators from the Southern Chapter of Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI)”

In continuation to the previous two editions held of “Sarovar Virtual showcase” which were aimed at reaching out to corporate and leisure business decision makers respectively, Sarovar Hotels hosted its third edition, this time focusing on Kerala as a destination.

This edition was specifically targeted to showcase our three stunning resorts of Kerala located respectively in Poovar Island, Thekkady and Vayalar and to present the diversity that they have in their leisure portfolio in Southern market. The participating tour operators ranged from states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala.

The virtual showcase highlighted the key USPs and value proposition of our three resorts to key tour operators from the Southern Chapter of Association of Domestic  Tour Operators of India (ADTOI).  The participating resorts were Estuary Sarovar Portico, Poovar Island; Poetree Sarovar Portico, Thekkady; and Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, Vayalar.

The key dialogues exchanged with the Tour operates were on Hotel’s USPs, safety initiatives and various attractive holiday offerings for their end customers, both Leisure and business.

The webinar was jointly flagged off by Sanjay Rai, Senior Vice president- Sales and Marketing Sarovar Hotels and P. P.  Khanna – President, ADTOI.  Additionally the following representatives were also part of the showcase; Swarup Dutta, Regional Director-South, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts ; Senthil Thangavel, General Manager - Poetree Sarovar Portico, Thekkady, Kerala ; Ayyappan Kutty, General Manager - Estuary Sarovar Portico, Poovar Island, Kerala ; Prashant Venugopal, Sales Head - Vasundhara Sarovar Premier, Vayalar, Kerala and Akshay Thusoo, Vice president-Sales, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts .

Vikram Sharma joins JW Marriott Kolkata as Director of Human Resources

“In his current stint with JW Marriott Kolkata, Sharma is employing his gamut of expertise to administer recruitment, and strategic HRM, training and development accompanied by other administrative responsibilities.”

Vikram Sharma has been appointed as the Human Resource Director at JW Marriott Kolkata. Using his vast experience and nifty managerial skills, Sharma has brought dynamic energy to JW Marriott Kolkata.

He has fostered his talents by excelling in the fields of strategic recruitment planning, Manpower Resource Deployment, Compliance and Documentation and the likes.

In his current stint with JW Marriott Kolkata, Sharma is employing his gamut of expertise to administer recruitment, and strategic HRM, training and development accompanied by other administrative responsibilities.

Furthermore, he is also responsible for Employee Relations and Retention by ascertaining trends and patterns for making recommendations to management to improve motivation, thus increasing the retention and efficiency of the employees. His proficiency in conjuring up stratagems to tackle concerns of the employees and their efficiency has brought to the table new policies to achieve business objectives.

This self-motivated and vibrant leader started his expedition in Hospitality career after graduating from The Institute of Hotel Management Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition and lucratively completing a prestigious degree of Masters in leadership from XLRI, Jamshedpur.

He started his career with Hyatt Hotels & Resorts and later got associated with Marriott International. Before joining JW Marriott Kolkata; he has proved his mettle as the Human Resource Manager at Ritz Carlton Bangalore, then moved on to serve as a Director of Human Resources at Jaipur Marriott Hotel and The Westin Pune. During his corporate journey he was awarded the Young Human Resources Leader of India – 2017 by FHRAI – Federation of Hotels and Resorts Association of India and was awarded as Top 100 Minds in Hospitality Industry for the year 2018.

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Brand Marriott| Marriott International Continues Asia Pacific Growth With Nearly 100 Properties Expected to Open in 2021

75 Properties Opened Across Asia Pacific in 2020

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) continues to expand its portfolio, expecting to open 100 properties in Asia Pacific in 2021, bringing more brands and experiences to new destinations for guests across the region. In 2020, the company celebrated its 800th milestone hotel opening in the region with 75 properties added to its portfolio during the year, representing more than one opening per week across the region. Nearly 27,000 rooms were added to the region’s development pipeline in 2020 alone, in addition to the signing of Marriott’s largest branded residences project with close to 4,200 units.

“I am proud of the way we have continued to grow and have moved quickly to adapt to the challenges that arose from the pandemic. With the launch of new global industry hygiene standards in April 2020, innovative offerings such as work anywhere package and hyper-localized marketing and sales strategies, our nimble and forward-thinking approach will continue to lead us through the recovery,” said Craig S. Smith, Group President, International, Marriott International. “We are grateful for the continued resilience and positivity demonstrated by our associates and for the confidence, our guests, owners and franchisees continue to have in us. We remain well-positioned to meet the travel demands of our guests across Asia Pacific and the rest of the world.”

Greater China has led the global recovery to date, and the company expects to soon celebrate its 400th hotel in Greater China and its 50th hotel in Shanghai with the opening of JW Marriott Shanghai Fengxian in spring 2021. With this hotel opening, Shanghai has the distinction of reaching this important milestone for the company in Asia Pacific.

According to a joint report by consultancy Bain & Co. and Alibaba’s Tmall Luxury unit, Mainland China is on track to become the world’s largest personal luxury market by 2025 even seeing year-over-year domestic growth in 2020 despite the pandemic. To leverage this trend, Marriott International continues to strengthen its luxury portfolio with expected openings in 2021 such as W Changsha, W Xiamen, St. Regis Qingdao & The Ritz-Carlton Reserve Jiuzhaigou. With the anticipated opening of the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, China will be the first country in the Asia Pacific to house all of Marriott International’s luxury hallmarks.

Marriott’s leisure bookings in China have been particularly strong, up over 25 percent year over year in the third quarter in Mainland China, demonstrating the resiliency of demand once consumers are comfortable that the virus is under control and restrictions can safely be lifted. The company is introducing more travel experiences across its brand portfolio, including at popular leisure destinations such as Mianyang in the Sichuan province with the expected opening of Sheraton Mianyang, as well in the culturally-rich destination of Nanjing with the anticipated opening of The Westin Nanjing Resort & Spa.

Beyond Greater China, Marriott International continues to strengthen its footprint, with several expected brand debuts across Asia Pacific in 2021. In Japan, W Hotels is expected to debut with the opening of W Osaka, while The Luxury Collection is also slated to debut in Australia with the opening of The Tasman in Hobart. The iconic Ritz-Carlton brand is expected to celebrate its debut in the leading resort destination of Maldives in early summer, bringing legendary service to the picture-perfect archipelago.

Further expanding Marriott’s presence in breathtaking resort destinations, the JW Marriott brand is slated to bring its warm luxury experience to Jeju Island in South Korea with the planned opening of JW Marriott Jeju in late 2021. The company’s signature wellness brand, Westin, is also highly anticipated to debut in one of India’s top beach destinations, Goa, this summer.

To support domestic travel in Japan, the company plans to open six additional Fairfield by Marriott hotels throughout 2021 along ‘Michi-no-Eki’ roadside stations aimed at revitalizing the country’s local sightseeing spots. Japan expects to have more than 30 Fairfield by Marriott hotels by the end of 2023. Touted as one of the best cities in the world for art, culture, music and food, Australia’s Melbourne is expected to see the opening of the country’s second W Hotel with W Melbourne in spring and the opening of Melbourne Marriott Hotel Docklands in early 2021.

“The strength of our pipeline is testament to the long-term growth prospects in Asia Pacific,” said Paul Foskey, Chief Development Officer, Asia Pacific, Marriott International. “Despite a challenging environment in 2020, we are pleased with the signings we have achieved across the region during the year. We have full gratitude to our owners and franchisees for their belief in the resiliency of travel and the strength of Marriott’s portfolio of brands.”

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Brand Hilton | Calling All Art Enthusiasts: Find Inspiration for Your Next Trip with Nine Hilton Art Collections Around the World

Cultural experiences are one of the main reasons why we travel. Museums, heritage sites, landmarks and art districts are some of the most popular tourist destinations in any city, drawing crowds from all around the world. The hotel experience has also come to be considered one of the most memorable aspects of a trip, but travelers have begun expecting more from their hotel stays. The solution? Hotels featuring world-class art collections of their own. 

Hilton offers several on-property cultural attractions for unforgettable stays. These creative features include local murals that spotlight nearby area attractions, museum-worthy collections housed in hotel suites, dining establishments that transport you to an artist’s studio or literal art galleries within steps of the hotel lobby.

Whether you’re planning future trips, expanding your travel bucket list, or just looking for something to do this weekend in your own neighborhood, these hotels are worth visiting for their art alone.

Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel

Known as the Eternal City for its longevity and enduring culture and splendor, Rome is an art lover’s playground. It’s no surprise that a city teeming with its own collections of priceless artwork from some of history’s most famed artists should be the setting of the world’s most prolific hotel art collection. Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel is home to one of the greatest private art collections in the world with more than 1,000 treasures ranging from 16th-century masters to contemporary art. The collection includes Rudolf Nureyev’s ballet costumes and Émile Gallé’s glass, in addition to famed paintings, tapestries, statues & period furniture & costumes that adorn the hotel’s interior. The hotel’s 25 luxurious suites are also furnished with incredible art pieces, including original Karl Lagerfeld sofas, rare 18th-century antiques & Andy Warhol paintings. If Rome is an art lover’s playground, Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel is their paradise.

Conrad Indianapolis

Part hotel, part art gallery, Conrad Indianapolis offers four uniquely-curated suites titled the Collections Suites; with each room inspired by the Pop, Modern, Surrealist & Contemporary art movements. At the heart of each of the four uniquely different suites is a work that captures the spirit of an artistic movement. Pieces by Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, William John Kennedy & more adorn the suite walls; and even the books on the shelves relate to each room’s style. For a more exquisite art experience, The Gallery Suite is an iconic celebrity hangout and art lover’s heaven. Still haven’t gotten your art fix? Conrad Indianapolis and Long-Sharp Gallery partner to present “Art Stays Here” – a fully integrated, exceptionally curated art education and exhibition program. The dual highlights of the program are the five rotating exhibits and the “Art Ambassadors,” Team Members who are trained on the artwork and artists exhibiting in the hotel. On the hotel’s second floor is “Regional Masters,” a semi-permanent exhibit featuring artists with a unique tie to the city of Indianapolis.

HALL Arts Hotel Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton

HALL Arts Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton is the first hotel to open in the Dallas Arts District, the largest contiguous arts district in the United States. Woven into the DNA of the property are the impactful, thought-provoking works of art from emerging talents, including specially commissioned pieces for the hotel’s common areas, suites, and meeting and event spaces. Ellie’s, the hotel’s on-site restaurant, is a gallery in its own right, with seven pieces of commissioned artwork throughout the dining and lounge areas. The hotel offers 183 guest rooms, including 19 Arts District-inspired suites. The guest rooms and hallways feature local photographs that showcase vibrant scenes of the Dallas Arts District as part of HALL Group and Dallas Arts District’s “Through the Lens” photography competition. Can’t make the trip? Check out the hotel’s YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes interviews with artists and virtual tours of the artwork.

Hilton Columbus Downtown

Boasting a collection worth more than $1 million, Hilton Columbus Downtown features original works from more than 100 Ohio-based artists, totaling just under 250 art pieces throughout the Short North hotel. In addition to the gallery, artistic touches accent the meeting rooms, common spaces and guest room ceilings – making art the first thing guests see when they open their eyes in the morning. The new hotel exterior art installation reflects the light and warmth of Hilton hospitality, with a collection of works meant to inspire and remind guests, Team Members and the local community that a brighter future lies ahead. The hotel’s High street-facing windows have been painted by six local artists to represent a diversity of styles, backgrounds and cultures mirroring Columbus as well as the hotel’s Team Members and guests. The installation will be up through February 2021.

Conrad Centennial Singapore

Hosting an impressive and diverse collection of more than 3,400 pieces of artwork throughout, Conrad Centennial Singapore is a sanctuary where art is everywhere and everything. The many art pieces displayed across the hotel public spaces, restaurants and guest rooms are united through an underlying Asian theme. Even the works of international artists include symbols, icons or motifs that reflect Eastern culture. The hotel serves as a platform for both renowned artists and young and budding art students alike, certifying the hotel’s appreciation toward fine arts, as well as its commitment to the development of the local visual art scene.

DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square Hotel & Residences

Just in time for the UAE’s 49th National Day, DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square Hotel & Residences opened its doors. The stylish “industrial-chic” hotel features several contemporary design elements, including the hotel’s artistic centerpiece – a unique portrait of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The more than 15-meters-long work of art welcomes guests as they enter the hotel lobby. Made of more than 29,000 reflective discs, the portrait took a team of eight artists more than three weeks to assemble.

Umbral, Curio Collection by Hilton

Part of the ambitious program to restore historical buildings in Mexico, Umbral, Curio Collection by Hilton is a restoration project from a heritage building that was constructed in 1924. Boasting a contemporary design by renowned local architect Javier Sanchez, Umbral features sleek, minimalistic furniture in neutral white, beige and brown tones, as well as natural materials such as light and dark wood features. As the city’s only hotel with an on-site gallery, Umbral features more than 100 pieces of art by respected young local artists like Jorge Montiel, Andrea Bores and Tomas Diaz.

Hilton São Paulo Morumbi – Canvas Bar & Restaurante

Designed by Argentinian architect Daniel Piana, Hilton São Paulo Morumbi’s Canvas Bar is for art enthusiasts. The entire setting replicates an art studio with hints of concrete, exposed iron throughout & high ceilings. Diners can enjoy the permanent art exhibitions displayed on the restaurant walls and seasonal exhibitions displayed above on suspended panels. Works by renowned artists such as Romero Britto, Aldemir Martins, and Antônio Peticov have been featured on the 28 panels spread across the restaurant.

Hilton Sydney – Marble Bar

Hilton Sydney’s 128-year-old underground bar and live music venue, Marble Bar, is adorned with 14 Edwardian paintings by Australian artist Julian Ashton – valued at an estimated $1.6 million. Complete with ornate marble arches, stained glass, a domed roof & a carved mahogany bar, the entire space can be considered a work of art. The bar was dismantled when the hotel was demolished in the late 1960s and later reassembled in Hilton Sydney that was built in its place.

Note worthy Hotel Openings in 2020-2021 - The ShayCulver City, CaliforniaOpening spring 2021

The ShayCulver City, CaliforniaOpening spring 2021

The community-defining 148-room boutique hotel will open in the buzzy Culver City neighborhood of Los Angeles in the spring and offer an inviting, social gathering vibe for guests and locals alike. Amenities will include a chef-led restaurant, spacious outdoor courtyard from which to work remotely & rooftop pool.

Radisson Hotel Group to add 84 new hotels

Radisson Hotel Group overcame significant global challenges in 2020 to expand its portfolio of properties in Asia Pacific, with the addition of 84 exceptional new hotels and resorts, covering eight of its distinct brands.

This rapid growth forms part of the company’s ambitious five-year strategy to triple its portfolio in the midterm. This will be achieved through a blend of organic growth in key markets, such as China, India, South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand, and master brand development agreements with Jin Jiang International and its subsidiaries in China, the world’s largest travel market.

Radisson Hotel Group is one of India’s largest and most reputable international hotel chains, with a comprehensive nationwide portfolio of hotels. This position was strengthened in 2020 with the signing of eight new hotels, including the 125-key Park Inn by Radisson Mashobra Resort, 115-key Park Inn by Radisson Jabalpur, 100-key Park Inn by Radisson Prayagraj, 120-key Radisson Hotel Dehradun, 103-key Radisson Resort & Spa Lonavala, 180-key Radisson Blu Hotel Jaipur Malviya Nagar, 120-key Radisson Resort Pondicherry Bay and 196-key The White Hotel, Katra, which is also the first member of Radisson Individuals in India.

In South East Asia, the signing of the 84-key Radisson Resort Phan Thiet and 309-key Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Van Phong Bay reinforce Radisson Hotel Group’s strategy of introducing its world-leading brands to Vietnam’s emerging cities and idyllic resort destinations.

In China, two landmark hotels were signed in Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu province. The 300-key Radisson Blu Hotel Nanjing South New Town and 151-key Radisson Collection Resort, Nanjing will serve the rising number of guests seeking international-standard upper-upscale accommodation in this important regional center.

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FHRAI has appointed Dr Himanshu Talwar as an Additional Director of FIHM

A philanthropist and man of multipotentialities, Dr. Himanshu Talwar, has achieved various heights throughout his career and has been diligent in counselling budding achievers, entrepreneurs, start-ups and students. He has continuously relearned and reskilled himself throughout his working life. Having acquired his Masters’ in Business Administration (MBA), he further enhanced his skills by studying Philosophy, Law and, attended Executive Management Programme (s) at Said Business School (SBS), University of Oxford, Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Calcutta and Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Bangalore. He holds a Doctorate and D. Litt (H.C.) in Business Management.

Along with various degrees on his credit, he has dedicated himself to work for social causes and has been given the ‘Indian Achievers' Award 2020 for Social Service by the Indian Achievers Forum. Recipient of 11 national-level awards, Dr. Talwar has been working for international organizations and supporting Not-for-profits for more than a decade and made significant contributions in the field of transforming people’s life as a life coach, skill development, legal, advisory, consultancy, and professional education.

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