NEWS | Tourist nos in Nainital, Mussoorie down by 50% after mandatory hotel bookings, strict Covid report checks

Hoteliers said that often tourists arrive without prior bookings but now they were being turned away. A hotelier in Mussoorie said that on Friday and Saturday, a number of tourists were turned away by police for not carrying hotel booking slips

Tourist footfalls declined by as much as half in Mussoorie and Nainital this weekend as strict Covid-related checks kicked in. While hotel bookings were made mandatory last week to enter both hill stations, police teams also started thorough inspection of Covid- negative test reports.

Compared with the past few weekends when hotels in Mussoorie had recorded 100 percent occupancy, bookings nosedived to 40 percent to 50 percent this weekend. In Nainital, many top hotels had barely 20 percent occupancy on Sunday. Sandeep Sahni, president of Uttarakhand Hotels' Association, said that tourist footfall had declined drastically by half in hill stations.

“A number of factors have contributed to the decline in tourist rush. The administration has become very strict and there has also been some negative publicity after a video of a large number of tourists taking a dip at Kempty Falls went viral. Heavy rainfall over the past week has also caused people to change travel plans,” Sahni said.

Those associated with the tourism industry said that with the arrival of the monsoon, chances of tourism picking up in the next few weeks were slim.

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Appointment | TAAI appoints Mr.Himanshu Talwar as Executive Director

A new position in the TAAI Secretariat, Talwar will be responsible for the liaising, networking, coordination and communications with various Ministries, departments of the government and other agencies

Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), the national body of travel agents in India, is learned to have appointed Himanshu Talwar as its Executive Director. A new position in the TAAI Secretariat, Talwar will be responsible for liaising, networking, coordination, and communications with various ministries, departments of the government, and other agencies. He will be based in the national capital - Delhi.

Talwar informed his movement through LinkedIn. He comes to TAAI from the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) where he was Assistant Secretary-General and Additional Director of FHRAI’s Institute of Hotel Management.

A multi-faceted personality, Talwar is an international TEDx speaker and author of many books. An MBA, he has to his credit Executive Management Programmes from Said Business School (SBS), University of Oxford, Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta, and IIM Bangalore. He holds a Doctorate and D. Litt (HC) in Business Management.

Along with a prolific educational background, Talwar also works assiduously for social causes and has been given the 'Indian Achievers' Award 2020 for Social Service. Recipient of many national-level awards, Talwar has been working for international organizations and supporting not-for-profit organizations for more than a decade, and made significant contributions in the field of transforming people’s life as a life coach, skill development, legal and professional education.

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New Opening | IHCL announces the opening of IHCL SeleQtions hotel in Haridwar

With a rich ancestry that traces back to over a century, Pilibhit House is an aristocratic mansion set on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, at the foothills of the Shivalik mountains.

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) announced the opening of Pilibhit House, an IHCL SeleQtions hotel in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. With a rich ancestry that traces back to over a century, Pilibhit House is an aristocratic mansion set on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, at the foothills of the Shivalik mountains.

Taljinder Singh, Senior Vice President - South Mumbai and SeleQtions, IHCL, said, “With its spellbinding landscapes ringed by the lofty Himalayas, Uttarakhand is not only a nature lover’s delight but also known for its many pilgrimage sites. With Pilibhit House, IHCL steps into the holy city of Haridwar located on the banks of the river Ganga. The addition of this destination in IHCL’s portfolio will help create new circuits in the state with Rishikesh, Corbett, and Haridwar, for both domestic and international travellers.”

The 35 artfully restored rooms and graceful suites are wrapped around a serene courtyard, with balconies offering panoramic views of the Ganges and the Shivalik mountains. The restaurant, Dining Room, offers delicious vegetarian food with a range of international cuisines and local delicacies, including some recipes from the home kitchen of the ancestral family. The open-air Lobby Lounge is the perfect place to unwind with finger foods.

Guests can enjoy a Ganga Aarti at its own private bathing ghat at Pilibhit House or Yoga at the Ganges Deck. Jiva Spa, with its age old Indian healing techniques and finest natural ingredients, offers wellness and meditation with expert instructors. Guests can trace decades of their ancestry with a private session of genealogy. The other curated experiences that evoke the four spiritual stages of life include an offbeat holy tour, trip to ashrams, a forest riverbed picnic and a wetland tour of the Chiriyapur Forest Range.

“Pilibhit House, located close to the famous Har Ki Pauri, offers an authentic flavour of the legendary city of Haridwar. We look forward to welcoming guests as they explore Haridwar’s rich history, which goes back thousands of years, through the lens of the curated and immersive experiences that we have to offer,” said Amit Kumar, General Manager, Pilibhit House – IHCL SeleQtions hotel.

Trends | InterContinental Chennai launches wedding staycations

The package is designed with curated sightseeing itineraries for outstation guests to UNESCO World heritage site Mahabalipuram, a dedicated activity planner for kids with nanny services, and oceanography/ surfing lessons for adults.

InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort has announced the launch of its wedding staycation package Muhuratham By The Bay for to-be wedded and families looking to club their wedding celebrations with vacation retreat. Last year, the Resort saw a huge shift in the wedding segments with couples looking to have a more all-inclusive wedding experience, with families. The package is designed with curated sightseeing itineraries for outstation guests to UNESCO World heritage site Mahabalipuram, a dedicated activity planner for kids with nanny services, and oceanography/ surfing lessons for adults.

Muhuratham By The Bay by InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort is truly experiential in nature, as it caters to the growing need for intimate weddings in a safe haven, although with continued International travel restrictions more couples are looking at shot-gun wedding format which can be built into a destination vacation. InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram drives an advantage of open areas, sprawling landscape, and pristine beach access which appeals to the popularity of the concept. The hotel has further personalized this wedding staycation with themed meals in-built to the package, provision of an on-site venue for a social celebration, chauffeur services for the newlyweds, and access to an in-house Spa & Salon for grooming. Guest numbers for this micro wedding staycation may vary from 50 guests to 100 guests.

Speaking about the initiative, General Manager Kunal Shanker shares "We decided to get creative and curate a way that allowed couples to enjoy all the perks of getting married at a beautiful beach resort destination, but with some of the bigger planning decisions already taken care of. We've streamlined everything and launched a dedicated InterContinental Weddings Microsite that highlights the ins and outs of the Muhuratham By The Bay Package. Our options are continuing to evolve as the needs of our couples change. We are looking forward to seeing how our guests respond to this initiative."

New Opening | Avartana reopens at ITC Grand Chola in Chennai

Senior Executive Chef Ajit Bangera on what’s new at the dinner-only restaurant and plans for the future starting with an exciting new menu to be introduced soon.

Avartana, (pronounced avartann) the modern Indian restaurant at the ITC Grand Chola A Luxury Collection Hotel, Chennai is about to reopen its doors on Friday night, July 15. The restaurant, which has been pushing the boundaries of Indian food and made it to the top 100 list of Asia’s best restaurants, is led by Senior Executive Chef ITC Grand Chola, Ajit Bangera.

Mr. Bangera is about shutting down and reopening this icon to modern Indian cuisine. “We as well as a lot of our customers were very disappointed when we had to shut down. You can’t imagine the number of calls we are getting to ask when we will reopen,” Bangera said—that wait is finally over tonight.

While they would open with their old menu, guests would not need to wait for too long before Bangera and his team plan to launch a new set of offerings for diners.

As for what the new menu will contain? “The surprise element is what is important, the wow factor is what is important. We want to go a level higher. We've got some new elements coming out there. I don't want to disclose them right now. But some new ideas, new thoughts, new ways of expressing ourselves. The idea for Avartana is that we feel we need to keep getting better—in progressing. You can't be sitting where you are, especially in our food business,” Bangera said when asked.

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BRANDS | Swiggy pilots model to tap into direct deliveries

The model will also see the food delivery giant share consumer data with restaurants based on confidentiality agreements.

In a move that may change the dynamics of the online food delivery model in India, Swiggy is piloting an ‘order direct’ service that will reduce commissions paid to it by its restaurant partners for orders or leads generated by the latter. The model will also see the food delivery giant share consumer data with restaurants based on confidentiality agreements.

This will not only help the Bengaluru-headquartered company make peace with its restaurant partners that have been vocal about steep commissions charged by food delivery majors such as Zomato and Swiggy but will also give it a toehold into the direct delivery system being adopted by restaurants.

As part of Swiggy’s pilot project, restaurants that generate leads on their own can ask Swiggy to fulfill the orders, including online payments, tracking, and delivery and as part of the deal, Swiggy will forgo a part of its commission. “Currently restaurants that have adopted the direct delivery model have to depend on different third-party service providers such as one for delivery and another for payments. Swiggy, however, provides a one-stop-shop,” said a senior industry executive.

Swiggy's spokesperson was not available for comment. Restaurants TOI spoke to welcomed the move. “It’s the first time a food delivery company is talking about unbundling services,” Riyaz Amlani, CEO and MD at Impresario Handmade Restaurants that operates restaurant chains such as Social and Smokehouse Deli, told TOI. “While it’s still early days, it’s a start nonetheless.”

The development comes against the backdrop of the National Restaurant Association of India filing complaints with Competition Commission of India against alleged anticompetitive practices by such aggregators. Sources, however, said Swiggy discussed its new mode

EVENT | Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre celebrates Bonalu with a special brunch

To cherish our rich culture and celebrate the traditional festival of Bonalu, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre is bringing you some delightful and authentic Telangana meal options, specially curated by our chefs.

This Bonalu, dive into a plethora of sumptuous food items in a mix featuring delicious local themed cuisines only at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre. This authentic experience will be available only on July 25th, starting at noon. 

Brunch Details  

Brunch date: July 25th 

Brunch time: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM 

Price – Buffet Brunch 2099+ Taxes 

For Reservations & More Details Please call –9642326162

Brand | Jimmy’s Cocktails diversifies its portfolio

Introduces Margarita and Bloody Mary as new variants

Radiohead Brands, owner of Jimmy’s Cocktails’ finely crafted cocktail mixers has announced the launch of two new variants in its cocktail mixers portfolio. Keeping in mind the brand’s vision to allow consumers to recreate gourmet bar-style cocktails at home, the new variants - Margarita and Bloody Mary are crafted by an in-house team led by celebrated mixologist Yangdup Lama, who has worked to benchmark the products against popular global variants to perfect their flavours.

Commenting on the launch of the new variants, Ankur Bhatia, Founder & CEO, Jimmy’s Cocktails said, “For a long time now, choice of mixers with premium spirits have been limited largely to sugary aerated beverages or fruit juices. Jimmy’s Cocktails offers the consumer an upgrade to his home drinking experience to deliver a bar quality, consistent cocktail in the comfort of his home. Our previous launch of Whiskey Sour, Sex on the Beach, Cosmopolitan and Mango Chili Mojito were very well received by the market, clearly indicating that the consumers are ready to enhance their home drinking occasions and are thirsty for exciting new options. We aim to keep the product line fresh with a stream of new variant launches over the coming year.”

Yangdup Lama, Product Head, Jimmy’s Cocktails, added, “A brunch time favourite, we’ve made the Bloody Mary with 95% real thick tomato juice, a first in the category across cocktail mixers. With our blend of a special spice mix, hot sauce and celery and tamarind flavours shining through, we are confident that our Bloody Mary mix would rival some of the best in the world. Similarly, our Margarita has a gentle and perfect balance of diverse flavours of lime, lemons, chilli, salt and agave which makes for a refreshing and authentic drink. Mixed drinks are all about great flavour balance leading to deliciousness in a glass, and that is what we have tried to achieve in both the premixes with a little twist of our own” The products by Jimmy’s Cocktails will be seen hitting the shelves in a striking but simple avatar to draw focus on the brand name and let the product speak for itself. The pop-art on the brand’s maiden packaging will undergo a makeover and find expression in brand communication outside of the bottle. The newly launched beverage variants are currently available on www.jimmyscocktails.com. The new launches will also be available shortly on third party online platforms like BigBasket, Amazon and Milkbasket and will hit retail shelves by the end of the month.”

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Appointment | South Woodford's Grand Trunk Road Appoint Arup Dasgupta as Head Chef

Chef Dasgupta’s work is known from the exclusive Michelin star eateries of the French Riviera to the very best London hotels such as The Lalit’s Pan Indian Baluchi

Grand Trunk Road recently received a Michelin plaque for 2021 and is celebrating their recent reopening by announcing its new Head Chef, Arup Dasgupta.

Expertly skilled for many years in the complexities of Western and Classical Indian fare, as well and the many varied avenues of Asian cuisine, Chef Dasgupta’s work is known from the exclusive Michelin star eateries of the French Riviera to the very best London hotels such as The Lalit’s Pan Indian Baluchi, where his culinary expertise has continued to bring sumptuous character and unforgettable flavor.

Launched in 2016 and famed for pairing ancient dishes with traditional cooking methods, via recipes collated from the legendary trail across hundreds of years, Grand Trunk Road has become a singular experience renowned for setting the standard for Indian food in the capital.

Chef Dasgupta’s creativity and flair for delicious imagination will be introduced into the Grand Trunk Road menu with new dishes including the Stone Bass marinated with light Kasundi mustard & coconut, steamed and served with pickled fennel salad, the Lahori Chicken Kebab, with roasted garlic and crushed spices with mint & coriander chutney, and the Five-spice chocolate cake with Orange & lime Ice Cream. An Eight Course tasting menu will be introduced in the very near future.

Owner, Rajesh Suri, says: “Following an intense lockdown period, it is such a thrill to start this new chapter of Grand Trunk Road with Chef Dasgupta as part of the fold; his work will continue to make Grand Trunk Road one of the finest restaurants in the city.”

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New Opening | Sarovar Hotels and Resorts continue to expand portfolio in Srinagar

The hospitality company signs second hotel in city

Sarovar Hotels and Resorts announces the signing of another hotel in Srinagar. This will be Sarovar’s second hotel in Srinagar.

Srinagar also known as “Switzerland of India” is famous for its natural beauty, gardens, waterfronts, and houseboats. It has seen fascinating tourists from centuries with its beautiful picturesque Himalayan backdrop, pristine lakes dotted with houseboats, shikaras and the majesty of Mughal architecture.

Sarovar Portico is scheduled to open in early 2022 and will offer well-appointed rooms, modern facilities, restaurant and banquet spaces. The beauty of Srinagar will be well imbibed in the interiors of the hotel while providing all modern facilities. Ensuring that your stay is most comfortable.

Sarovar Portico, Srinagar is located at the airport Road, Humhama area and just 4 kms away from airport and 9 kms from bus station and railway station,

Needless to say, the incredibly famous Dal Lake is one of the most favored vacation destinations in Srinagar. Along with this, other must-visit places are Shalimar Bagh, Mughal Garden, Nishat Bagh, and Tulip Garden.

Commenting on the development, Anil Madhok, Executive Chairman, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts said” We are delighted to be consolidating our presence further in the ‘land of lakes and Garden’. It’s a significant addition to our rapidly growing footprint in the leisure portfolio and reflects the strong traction the brand is gaining in the region.

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NEWS | IHCL Initiatives To Bring In 1150 Crore over next 2 - 3 years

According to recently held Analyst’s meet:

• Taj’s exclusive business club, The Chambers, has been relaunched with new features. The firm plans to increase its member count from 2,200 to 4,000. Seven Chambers are operational now and two more are in the pipeline. The company expects it to become a ₹150-crore business.

• The firm said the group’s food delivery business Qmin has the potential to reach ₹500 crore in revenue.

• The group’s branded homestays, Ama Stays and Trails, has a revenue potential of ₹500 crore.

New initiatives (Qmin, Ama, The Chambers) are expected to contribute ₹450-500 crore or 10% of revenue over the next two-three years from 5% currently.

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Product | Hyatt Place Gurgaon Introduces New Menu for its Diners

Hyatt Place Gurgaon Introduces New Menu for its Diners

In an endeavour to ensure that guests and patrons continue to eat mindful, Hyatt Place Gurgaon has launched an innovative and thoughtfully curated all-new menu coupled with high quality and freshly- sourced seasonal ingredients. The dishes from the new menu have been created with a unique twist and presents a regionally inspired fare.

The menu is delicately balanced with its signature dishes and new creations to cater to every palate. With “Food. Thoughtfully Sourced. Carefully served”, being Hyatt’s global food & beverage philosophy, Hyatt Place Gurgaon is committed to providing food and beverages that are good for the guests, the planet as well as the communities. 

Hyatt Place Gurgaon, brings an exquisite amalgamation of Asian, Western and Indian flavours under the craftsmanship of Chef Rick Kundu who aims to deliver a gastronomic experience for all its diners. Keeping in mind guest’s preference and likings, some of the restaurant’s recommendations include the ‘Kolkata Beetroot Chop’, ‘Pressed Panini Sandwich’, Roasted Spatchcock Chicken’, ‘Bhuna Seekh Masaledar’, ‘Tangra Inspired Chilli Cottage Cheese’ and ‘Crème Brulée’ to name a few.  The menu also has an interesting concept of “Dabba” - a personalized tiffin designed to satisfy the palate of guests seeking humble & tasty meals.

At the launch of new menu, Chef Rick says “Simple food is often comfort food”. The new menu has been designed keeping in mind preferences of our esteemed guests. I believe the menu has something to tingle everyone’s palate. The ingredients has been handpicked & locally sourced, to ensure high quality. All the dishes are prepared using simple cooking techniques, have unique but robust flavours and are fulfilling. Would love to see you all at the Restaurant, just to take you through a wonderful gastronomical experience.”

Following the slogan “Safety First. Wellbeing Always", Hyatt Place Gurgaon maintains enhanced safety and cleanliness protocols along with the highest quality of food as per standards.

ABOUT HYATT PLACE GURGAON UDYOG VIHAR

Strategically located in Gurgaon, Hyatt Place Gurgaon Udyog Vihar is one of the finest business hotels and close to the commercial business district with just a 2 km/5 min from Unitech Infospace, Udyog Vihar & 4.5 km/15 min from DLF cyber city, DLF Cyber Park 2. Accessible within 25 minutes from Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi via NH8, the hotel is ideal for both the business and leisure traveler. The hotel offers convenient access to Gurgaon’s most famous sites and attractions, ideal places to experience a perfect blend of India’s art, culture and heritage in the form of cinematic and theatrical musicals, all under one roof.

Hyatt Place Gurgaon Udyog Vihar offers:

• 176 spacious and comfortable rooms (126 King rooms, 12 Pool View and 38 Specialty rooms) measuring 30sq mtr each featuring a 42-inch flat HDTV, a Hyatt Luxury Eurotop Mattress and a Cozy Corner sofa sleeper in select guestrooms

• Free Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel

• 2,720 square feet (253 square meters) of flexible, high-tech meeting and function space  

• Buffet Breakfast, featuring freshly prepared breakfast sandwiches, a variety of fresh fruits, hot and cold cereal, yogurt, breads, premium coffee, and an assortment of juices

• A multi-cuisine Restaurant featuring local and regional specialties, made-to-order entrées and appetizers around the clock

• The Bar featuring specialty coffees and premium role beers, as well as wines and cocktails

• A 24X7 Fitness Center, offering advanced cardiovascular and strengthening equipment’s 

• Relax and unwind at the outdoor swimming pool, while enjoying the pleasant weather and green surrounding

• Free public computers with internet access and remote printing

Appointment | JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Appoints Ms. Aparna Passi as Director of Human Resources

Mumbai, 14th July 2021: JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has announced the appointment of Ms. Aparna Passi as the new ‘Director of Human Resources’. In her new role, Aparna will be responsible for aligning HR policies and programs to drive optimal employee performance and to accomplish corporate goals and objectives.

Aparna joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar with a rich and diverse experience of over a decade in this industry. A holder of a B.SC. degree she went on to work in various properties of The Oberoi Group of hotels, JW Marriott in Mumbai as well as real estate giant Kalpataru Limited. 

Apart from being a certified hospitality educator and senior human resource professional, Ms. Aparna Passi is a passionate public speaker and a dynamic human resource professional with extensive experience in recruitment, retention, compensation, training and customer service. 

She is also known for her excellent communication skills, proficiency in planning, budgeting and forecasting, Aparna has demonstrated the ability to collaborate with others to achieve organizational goals and objectives.

With over a decade of experience in this industry, she built her repertoire of expertise in Kolkata, Mumbai, Dubai and Ajman. It is her belief that each pupil must traverse their own journey and through practice all can achieve Professionalism. 

Commenting on her appointment, Aparna says, “I am ecstatic about re-joining Marriott International and for my new role as Director of Human Resources at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. I believe that through passion and dedication one can overcome any hurdle and that every expert was once a beginner. I look forward to contributing to the success of the hotel and being part of a dynamic leadership team of professionals at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar”..

About JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar offers effortless elegance and sophistication. Located 1 km away from the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Mumbai, the luxury hotel makes for an ideal destination for business and stay. With 588 spacious rooms, including 39 suites, the property offers authentic cuisine crafted with passion, care and local flavors. The property offers indoor and outdoor convention space, 11 well-appointed meeting rooms with state-of-the-art conferencing facilities. Spa by JW, the first of its kind in Asia Pacific, extends its host of therapies so one can experience holistic wellness. Visit us online on www.jwmumbai.com. For social media updates, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter on @JWSahar. For more information, follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube, Google Plus. 

About Marriott International

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 7,500 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 132 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy™, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

NEWS| Zomato’s INR 60,000 crore IPO valuation creates buzz

Zomato’s IPO is set to be open from July 14 to July 16 at a price band of Rs 72-76. The enhanced offer size is about Rs 9,375 crore. Interestingly Zomato’s valuation at IPO, at about Rs 60,000 crore, is equivalent to the market value of all the quick service restaurants (QSRs) listed on Indian bourses.

The valuation of food delivery major Zomato that’s going public through an IPO with an indicative market capitalization of around INR 60,000 crore, has been a topic of much discussion on social media with many raising an eyebrow if it’s really worth that much.

People have mixed views. For some, a tech-enabled company should be valued differently to a traditional company despite its losses. For some, the IPO is a harvest opportunity for venture capital & private equity investors to offload their liability to retail investors, while some believe Indian food tech companies will reflect valuations earned by their global peers like DoorDash to a significant investor extent.

Zomato’s IPO is set to be open from July 14 to July 16 at a price band of INR 72-76. The enhanced offer size is about INR 9,375 crore.

Interestingly Zomato’s valuation at IPO, at about Rs 60,000 crore, is equivalent to the market value of all the quick service restaurants (QSRs) listed on Indian bourses. Its value is also more than the market value of all the listed hospitality chains operating in the country. This second list includes the behemoth like Indian Hotels that run the iconic Taj chain of hotels in India and abroad, and also Oberoi Hotels.

India has half a dozen listed quick-service restaurants with a combined market value of Rs 60,712 crore and about 20 listed hospitality companies with an aggregate market capitalization of Rs 44,000 crore.

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Appointment | New Meliá Chiang Mai Announces Edward E. Snoeks as General Manager

New Meliá Chiang Mai Announces Edward E. Snoeks as General Manager

CHIANG MAI, Thailand (July 13, 2021) – A hospitality veteran with three decades of industry experience in Asia and Europe, Edward E. Snoeks, will take charge of the new bleisure hotel Meliá Chiang Mai.

The 260 room and suite hotel is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of this year in the heart of Chiang Mai’s city centre.

Snoeks joins Meliá Chiang Mai after managing the pre-opening of Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok & The Residences and working as both Thailand’s regional general manager and general manager of The Okura Prestige Bangkok.

Previously he was the general manager of Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Causeway Bay and vice president of hotel operations at Hong Kong Parkview Hotel Services.

His work in Asia goes back to 1994 when he worked for The Regent Hong Kong’s food and beverage department. Snoeks’ hotel management experience also includes stints at the Marco Polo Hotels in Hong Kong, the Mutiara Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Le Royal Meridien Baan Taling Ngam on Koh Samui.

Comprising a 22-floor tower fronted by an adjoining seven-floor podium building, Meliá Chiang Mai will unveil a host of facilities including two restaurants, two bars, two lounges, a YHI Spa with seven treatment rooms, a fully-equipped fitness centre, swimming pool, ballroom and four additional meeting spaces for business and leisure travellers alike.

“Edward’s exceptional leadership abilities and his rich and diversified experience in opening and managing hotels in Asia make him the obvious choice to take charge of Meliá Chiang Mai, our second Meliá Hotels International property to be opened in Thailand following the successful launch of Meliá Koh Samui,” said Ignacio Martin, Area Managing Director South East Asia at Meliá Hotels International.

“With a 360-degree rooftop bar featuring two bars connected by a glass bridge, a 21st-floor executive lounge with panoramic views of Chiang Mai, a range of conference facilities and much more, my team and I are looking forward to launching a hotel that promises to exude the mystic splendor of Northern Thailand and draw on Meliá’s warm Spanish hospitality,” added Snoeks.

Hilton NEWS | Hilton Honors Unveils Exclusive Offer for Dining ‘Like a Member’

Members to receive exclusive access to attractive perks and privileges at Hilton dining establishments in India and across Asia Pacific

NEW DELHI, India, July 2021– Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 world-class brands, today announced its Asia Pacific new dining offer, ‘Like a Member’, giving guests an opportunity to join Hilton Honors and enjoy its privileges in their locales, even without staying on property. Inviting guests to dine like a member, the offer includes discounts of up to 25%, as well as opportunities to earn Bonus Points across an extensive range of dining outlets managed by Hilton in the region. 

With more than 900 dining outlets across the Asia Pacific, including India, all of which adhere to the highest standards of hygiene and safety, Hilton Honors aims to give members access to enjoy the best value while they dine, toast and celebrate in their home cities or within the region where it is safe to travel again. 

Hilton Honors members can enjoy the following benefits* when they dine at eligible Hilton-managed dining outlets across India, including takeaways, deliveries and alcoholic beverages, where permissible by law:

• 25% discount off net prices for all Hilton Honors Gold and Diamond Members     

• 10% discount off net prices for all Hilton Honors members      

• 500 Bonus Points awarded for any transaction over INR 1900 for all walk-in Hilton Honors members 

The ‘Like a Member’ offer will launch today across all participating dining outlets in India and will be valid until December 31, 2021. The program is also currently available in Greater China, South East Asia, Japan and Korea, Australian and New Zealand.

“Our Hilton Honors members are at the centre of what we do, so we are constantly looking for ways to give them seamless access to the experiences they desire and the recognition they deserve – an inside connection that elevates their every day,” said Ben George, senior vice president and commercial director, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “By engaging with the culinary passions and interests shared across the diverse region, this dining offer unlocks great choice and value through member-only benefits across Asia Pacific. As we continue to bring the light and warmth of hospitality to our members wherever they may be, we also look forward to welcoming them back to our hotels when they are ready.”

Manish Tolani, commercial director and vice president, Hilton, India said, “Dining out has undergone a massive shift, but what we know is that food remains an integral part of any experience. As markets start to reopen, we at Hilton remain committed to offering the best experiences to our guests in a safe environment. The ‘Like a Member’ dining offer aims to bring the finest cuisines to our members at the best value, along with other benefits so that our valued members can savour their favourite meals at our restaurants or their homes and get rewarded at the same time.” 

From feasting on the finest delicacies and sampling surprising new flavours and cocktails, to immersing in themed dining experiences, members can satisfy every craving through a wide array of dining options. Some of these restaurants in India include: 

@Saipe, Hilton Goa Resort

Inspired by Goa’s diverse vibe, @Saipe is an all-day dining restaurant featuring live kitchens that transform into a culinary theatre. Enjoy local delicacies with a modern take or a range of global cuisines in a relaxed ambience that celebrates the best of Indo-European design sensibilities. Experience chef-curated events at the private dining area or admire sweeping views of Goa’s stunning coastal landscape at the Patio@Saipe or Al fresco.

Feliz, DoubleTree by Hilton Goa – Panaji

Resonating the essence of Goa, Feliz offers a relaxed ambience in nature with outdoor seating overlooking the pool and the picturesque Mandovi River. The restaurant serves an exquisite selection of Coastal, Goan and Mangalorean cuisine. The menu incorporates sustainable seafood, prime cuts and exotic vegetables expertly prepared with intense aroma and flavours. A bar by night, Feliz showcases a selection of unique cocktails and trendy lounge music. 

Tiamo, Conrad Bengaluru

With balmy days and cool evenings, most days in Bengaluru equal al fresco. Tiamo is a celebration of the favourite Mediterranean bistro classics relished under open skies, overlooking the hotel’s iconic infinity pool with panoramic views of the breathtaking Ulsoor Lake. Savour robust flavours and the simple ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine in a stylish atmosphere.

Koji, Conrad Pune

Inspired by decadence, the award-winning Pan Asian restaurant, Koji, serves the best of Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisines. Weaving in Japanese design philosophy, the stunning restaurant features a dramatic live kitchen, extensive sushi bar and an exclusive private dining area with a dedicated teppan grill. 

The Brasserie, Hilton Mumbai International Airport

A French-inspired restaurant, The Brasserie is a charming eatery to grab a bite or pack a power lunch. The all-day dining restaurant offers an innovative menu and aromatic dishes from around the globe in an intimate and elegant setting. Featuring enormous bay windows and overlooking the shimmering pool, guests are spoiled for choice with both familiar and exotic selections of Indian, French, Italian, Oriental and Mediterranean specialities.

Vasco’s, Hilton Chennai

Enjoy fresh and innovative global cuisine from live kitchens at this stylish, all-day dining restaurant. The modern furnishings and relaxed ambience, together with superb views of the city, ensure the perfect dining experience. An elevated private dining room with a bird’s eye view of the restaurant below is available for those seeking an exclusive setting. 

The Amber Kitchen, DoubleTree by Hilton Jaipur, Amer

The Amber Kitchen is an ode to Jaipur’s rich culinary heritage and serves a diversity of local specialties, North Indian dishes as well as international cuisine. The all-day dining restaurant boasts an extensive buffet and live kitchen that dishes up exquisite local Rajasthani delicacies. Overlooking the Aravalli range, the restaurant enjoys ample natural light seeping in through large alcoves. The adjacent Garden Bar extends breathtaking views to guests looking to relax amidst the serene landscape. 

Spot 360, DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bangalore

The combination of poolside cabanas, comfortable cocoon beds, luxe cocktails and exotic cuisine makes Spot 360 an ideal destination to bask in the ambience and views of Bengaluru when the sun goes down. With contemporary and retro music playing in the background, guests can indulge in a comforting progressive Indian menu paired with a wide range of premium liquor concoctions.

Hilton Honors offers members a wide range of benefits and perks across Hilton’s world-class portfolio of 18 brands, including exclusive discounts, rewards and hundreds of ways to earn and redeem Points on free nights, premium merchandise, charitable contributions and unique experiences. 

The industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app provides guests a smooth, contactless experience even before stepping foot on property. Using a smartphone, guests can bypass the front desk, and check-in, select and access their room with a Digital Key at over 5,200 properties worldwide.

During this uncertain time for travelers, Hilton Honors remains committed to providing the flexibility to change or cancel bookings up to 24 hours before arrival, as well as status and Points extensions. For guests booking - or rebooking - a stay, Hilton Honors members are guaranteed the lowest price on all Hilton hotels when they book on Hilton.com or the Hilton Honors app, and have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay.

To take advantage of the ‘Like a Member’ offer and the full spectrum of member benefits, enrol for free at HiltonHonors.com. 

High-resolution images can be accessed here.

*A full list of the terms and conditions for the ‘Like a Member’ offer can be accessed here.

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About Hilton Honors

Hilton Honors is the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 world-class brands comprising more than 6,500 properties in 119 countries and territories. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount and free Standard WiFi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where members can check in, choose their room and access their room using Digital Key. Hilton Honors offers its more than 115 million members hundreds of ways to earn and redeem Points, including select co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their Points for free nights, premium merchandise and items on Amazon, and make charitable contributions. The program is free to join and travelers can enroll online by visiting hiltonhonors.com. Learn more about Hilton Honors at newsroom.hilton.com/hiltonhonors, and follow Hilton Honors on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Appointment | Alberto Burgio joins Jumeirah Restaurants as chef de cuisine

He takes up the post at Trattoria Toscana in Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Alberto Burgio is the new de cuisine at Italian restaurant Trattoria Toscana, Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

Burgio began his career in Syracuse in 2004 where he learned the art of pizza-making from his mentor, the Pizza World Championship-winning Alfio Russo.

He worked across Italy and UK in various pizzerias as a sous pizza chef. He has previously worked at Grand Hyatt Dubai and has headed Bussola as pizzeria sous chef in Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi in 2015.

He catered to an economic summit between Italy and the UAE while at Grand Hyatt Dubai in 2019.

NEWS | RTA publishes new safety manual for delivery drivers in Dubai

It covers how to drive, the specs of the delivery vehicle, food safety and uniforms

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has published a new manual for delivery drivers. It covers safety regulations that companies must follow, making sure drivers are properly trained, carrying out awareness campaigns with drivers and setting up regulations that new delivery platforms and apps must follow.

The manual, called The Activity Manual for Managing and Providing Delivery Services, has been produced in collaboration with Dubai Police and Dubai Municipality. It’s aim is to bring delivery providers in line with the RTA’s regulations and practices.

A statement on the RTA website said it has been brought in now as a result of the increased demand for deliveries since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

It covers any venue or business that delivers “food, goods, equipment and other similar processes”.

The RTA said: “This manual aims to set out a methodology governing the delivery services activity in the Emirate of Dubai and clarify the procedures, controls and provisions governing the sector. It also defines the client’s journey through a clear and documented work procedures.

“The manual sets out important conditions that delivery service companies and their motorcyclists must strictly comply with for the safety of drivers, road users and the food or materials to be delivered.

“These stipulations include the traffic safety of motorcyclists, specifications of the vehicle or motorcycle, food safety at the delivery of orders, and guidelines relating to the uniform of drivers of delivery motorbikes.”

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Appointment | Impresario Handmade Restaurants appoints Alexander Valladares as CMO

Prior to this appointment, Valladares led a team of dynamic marketers as National Marketing Lead for Times of India’s metro supplements and Times life, where he oversaw content, P&L, marketing, and social media growth across 45 supplements.

Impresario Handmade Restaurants announced the appointment of Alexander Valladares as Chief Marketing Officer. He brings with him rich experience of over 14 years across brand building, marketing, content, intellectual property creation, and monetization. At Impresario, he will be responsible for leading marketing activities across the company’s numerous brands, including SOCIAL, Smoke House Deli, Salt Water Cafe, Souffle S’il Vous Plait, and several cloud kitchen brands like BOSS Burger, Hung-Li, Lucknowee, and Goodness To Go.

Riyaaz Amlani, CEO & MD, Impresario Handmade Restaurants said, “We are delighted to welcome Alexander to Impresario. He is a seasoned marketing professional with a proven track record of building marketing and content-led properties, and driving consumer-focussed innovations. We are confident that he will use his experience to deepen Impresario’s connection with its customers and drive growth for us.”

The newly appointed Chief Marketing Officer - Impresario Handmade Restaurants, Alexander Valladres said, “I am thrilled to be part of the Impresario family. Coming from a media background, I’m excited about this leap into the F&B industry and what better way to do that than with one of the most youthful and forward-thinking companies in the country. Impresario has an array of vibrant brands that are big on people, pop culture, and creating great experiences - all of the things that light me up personally and professionally - and I’m excited to bring my learnings to such a collaborative environment. I look forward to continuing to build strong communities around our brands.”

Prior to this appointment, Valladares led a team of dynamic marketers as National Marketing Lead for Times of India’s metro supplements and Times life, where he oversaw content, P&L, marketing, and social media growth across 45 supplements. At TOI, he worked on a vast array of campaigns and IPs that have received critical acclaim, including winning the prestigious Gold Glass Lions and a Gold Lion at Cannes (Creativity For Good). His strategic initiatives helped in increasing readership and engagement along with building strong content IPs. He plans to deploy both these skills to strengthen Impresario’s brand awareness and footprint across the country.

Valladares has also been associated with MTV India and FCB Ulka in past stints. As the chief marketing strategist for Impresario, Alexander will oversee all brand functions including PR and communications, content marketing, on-ground activations, consumer marketing and engagement, and ensure they are aligned to support the company’s vision of leadership in the premium casual dining niche of the F&B industry.

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Tourism, pilgrimages and large gatherings could trigger third wave, says IMA

As reports of revenge travel hogged the headlines in recent weeks, various agencies had raised the alarm against such tendencies which could become reasons for another major spread of the pandemic.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) in a statement warned against the “tourist bonanza, pilgrimage travel and religious fervor” which could become super spreader events and bring on a potential third wave.“All these activities are needed, but can wait for a few more months,”

The association claimed that global evidence available indicated the certainty of a third wave in India was inevitable and imminent. The only way to reduce the impact of the third wave was through universal vaccination and Covid appropriate behaviour on the part of the people and the governments.

While it was important for the entire country to work together to face the challenge, the association said that it was extremely painful to note complacency on the part of the public and governments in various states on following Covid protocols.

“Opening up these events and enabling people without vaccination to go scot free in these mass gatherings are potential super spreaders for the Covid third wave,” the IMA statement said.

The association reminded everyone of the economic cost of treating people at hospitals in large numbers adding that the very same cost of a third wave would far exceed the economic benefits derived from such activities now, which were avoidable.

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