NEWS | Radisson Hotel Group on track to reach 50 hotels in North Africa by 2025

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Radisson Hotel Group on track to reach 50 hotels in North Africa by 2025

Radisson Hotel Group, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has set a record in its North African expansion, with the signing of nine hotels, to date this year. This has boosted the Group’s North Africa portfolio, comprising of the Maghreb countries along with Libya and Egypt, to over 30 hotels in operation and under development, placing them firmly on track to reach over 50 hotels by 2025.

Alban Mabille de Poncheville, Director, Development, North Africa at Radisson Hotel Group says, “We are delighted to be leading the market in North African hotel expansion, setting a record for ourselves and the industry. Our flagship brand, Radisson Blu, has been one of the leading brands in the region and as we continue to grow and diversify across North Africa, we look forward to capitalizing on our brand name and introducing new brands in the area such as Radisson, in the upscale segment and Radisson Collection, our entry-level luxury brand. The market has shown great potential in various segments but also in different product types, from resorts to city hotels but also serviced apartments and boutique hotel offerings. We aim to further accelerate our presence across all North African countries and key cities and also expand in new touristic areas as recently announced with the launch of our resort offerings across Morocco.”

In response to the need for independent hotel owners to gain further brand exposure and consumer confidence, the group launched a new brand, Radisson Individuals, aimed at individual hotels with strong service scores and existing hotel identities who wish to remain independent or maybe considering overtime transitioning to one of the group’s core brands. 

Mabille de Poncheville adds, “This initiative further demonstrates the ability for our group to provide solutions that not only support our partners but also reflect our focus on conversions with a tailored offering which provides all the benefits of our network and scale with limited pre-requisites.”

The results of the pandemic have shown two major trends: the resilience of serviced apartments across the industry and the rapid growth of leisure and domestic demand.  The Group’s recent signings respond to those trends but also cement their future in benefiting of the post-covid recovery with a balance and adequate presence covering all segments and capitalizing on market priorities. 

“Conversions have and will continue to remain a priority in our expansion strategy, especially post-pandemic, as there is less liquidity for newer developments. We therefore seek to form wider partnerships and strategic ventures with local or regional chains and forge ahead with our city scale and critical mass strategy,” says Mabille de Poncheville. 


As part of the Group’s new African development strategy, the African regions have been subdivided based on priorities, focus and potential scale. Egypt and Morocco have been identified as the Group’s focus countries for North Africa due to the opportunity to leverage further synergies and operational support through a clear development plan in these markets. 

Morocco:

As Africa’s number one tourism destination, driven by the constant growth in corporate and leisure segments, Morocco has been identified as a priority to support Radisson Hotel Group’s growth journey and deliver  these operational efficiencies. 

Elaborating on the Group’s Moroccan expansion strategy, Mabille de Poncheville says, “Our development approach in Morocco is based on two pillars:

Firstly, proactively establishing a presence and growing our portfolio in each of the key cities, namely Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat and Tangier. We are confident that our multiple brands and different operating models such as hotels and serviced apartments will have a positive performance in these markets.

Secondly, the diversification of the countries unlock further opportunities for city breaks, beach resorts and cultural tours. In addition to these already established cities, we see the emergence of new destinations such as Al Hoceima, Saïdia and Taghazout, each showcasing a strong potential to complement our existing footprint.”

To date this year, Radisson Hotel Group has secured a record growth in Morocco with an additional nine hotels, all aligned with this development strategy, some of which include the debut of our Radisson brand in Casablanca with the signing of Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle as well as the recent partnership established with Madaëf, the leading Moroccan investment company, which translated to seven additional hotels across key leisure destinations in the country.


From our 2016 debut in Morocco with the opening of Radisson Blu Hotel Marrakech, Carré Eden, our robust development strategy and dedication to contribute to the growth of the country have placed us firmly on track to exceed our ambition to reach 15 hotels in operation and under development in the country by 2025,” says Mabille de Poncheville. 


Egypt:

In Egypt, Radisson Hotel Group is proactively looking at its capital city, Cairo, for both hotels and serviced apartments. 

There is evident potential for our core brands, Radisson Blu and Radisson, through greenfield projects in newly developed areas in particular, the new administrative area as well as conversion opportunities in established parts of the city, covering both corporate and leisure demand. We have also identified the potential for our lifestyle select brand, Radisson RED, filling a gap in the market for a hotel of this kind, in select locations,” says Mabille de Poncheville. 


Further expanding on the Group’s leisure offerings and the growth of domestic tourism, they have identified growth opportunities along the Red Sea, with a priority to re-enter Sharm el Sheikh to reinforce and complement their resorts portfolio in the country and across North Africa. 


Given the nature of the market, we would predominantly be looking at conversion opportunities, through our Radisson Blu and Radisson brands. The market has started to show positive signs of recovery and the upcoming lift of flight restrictions should further accelerate this trend. We also believe in conversion opportunities along the Mediterranean Sea with the Tunisian coastal destinations such as Djerba, Sousse and Hammamet but also the growing importance of the North Coast in Egypt,” adds Mabille de Poncheville.


The group has also defined a clear strategy for countries like Algeria and Tunisia where they have established world class hotels and resorts and are now capitalizing on its success, expanding within the capital cities such as Tunis and Algiers. The ambitions in these markets are driven by creating critical mass and also ensuring market proximity.


Algeria:

The Group’s current portfolio in Algeria consists of one hotel in operation, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Algiers Hydra and another under development, also within Algiers. With a strategy to create critical mass in key cities such as Algiers, Constantine and Oran with a multi-brand approach, focusing on the Radisson Blu and Radisson brands and a strong potential identified for Serviced Apartments, Radisson Hotel group aims to add five additional hotels to this portfolio. 


Complementing this strategy in Algeria, we have also identified secondary locations we’d like to add three more hotels to, focusing on the Radisson and Park Inn by Radisson brands. We believe Algeria has the potential to become a top travel destination due the diversity in its landscape, from coastal and mountainous to desert. This also allows the country to position itself as the alternative destination for the Mediterranean, especially with its abundance of national parks and leisure activities,” says Mabille de Poncheville. 


Tunisia

Radisson Hotel Group’s initial presence in Tunisia, a country with strong beach, adventure and eco tourism, focused on resort locations such as Djerba and Hammamet where the Group currently operates two resorts. 


 “Our current expansion strategy in Tunisia takes on a proactive approach in the capital city, Tunis, focusing on the Radisson Blu brand and our serviced apartment offerings. Here we see an opportunity to add three additional hotels to our current portfolio of four hotels in operation and under development,” Mabille de Poncheville concludes. 


The group also plans to reinforce its brand presence in resort and MICE locations such as Tunis la Gammarth, Sousse and Hammamet, where they look to add a further two hotels. 


New Opening | Radisson Hotel Group doubles its presence in Makkah,Saudi Arabia by adding nearly 1000 keys in Thakher Makkah

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Radisson Hotel Group doubles its presence in Makkah, Saudi Arabia by adding nearly 1000 keys in Thakher Makkah

Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce the signing of three hotels within the Thakher Makkah megaproject, an urban development in the city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Further strengthening its presence across two brands, the Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher City Tower West, the Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher City Tower East and the Radisson Hotel Makkah Thakher City are set to open in Q4 2022. The new signings will add a total of 992 rooms and apartments, doubling the Group’s portfolio in Makkah, a key target growth market in Saudi Arabia. Despite the challenges due to the pandemic, Radisson Hotel Group is continuing its strong expansion as one of the fastest growing companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer EMEA, Radisson Hotel Group, says: “We are delighted to announce this portfolio of three new hotels, as it not only accelerates our growing presence in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, but also reaffirms our commitment towards the country and its future. The Thakher Makkah megaproject is designed to attract millions of pilgrims every year and will positively contribute to the country’s ambitious plan that aims to host 30 million Umrah visitors, as well as, hosting 6 million Hajj pilgrims by the year 2030. We remain committed to the country’s Vision 2030 and their initiatives to significantly increase the contribution of leisure and business tourism to the country’s economy. We would like to thank our business partners for their trust in our brands and teams as we look forward to an exciting and rewarding journey.”

The city of Makkah, situated 70 km southeast of Jeddah, is known as the holiest city in Islam. The main sources of economic activity in Makkah are the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage, with millions flocking to Makkah each year for worship and devotion. Since the seventh century, Muslims all over the world have visited Mecca, the birthplace of Islam. It is a pilgrimage that marks their observance of one of the Five Pillars of Islam and the fulfillment of a once-in-a-lifetime ritual. Holy sites in the city include the sacred Ka’aba, located in the heart of the Masjid al-Haram, the Grand Mosque, or the historic Cave of Thawr.

Located within the Thakher Makkah megaproject, a mixed-use development comprising of hotels, residential and retail units, the hotels are just a stone’s throw away from the holy sites and offer a unique choice for travelers. Due to open in Q4 2022, the hotels will be another great addition to the existing portfolio across the Kingdom. 

 

Eng. Abdulaziz Al-Aboudi, CEO of Thakher Development Co., stressed that: “The keenness of international hotel companies to provide their services to the Thakher Makkah Project reflects the importance and value of the project as a prominent tourism destination in the Holy City. Such cooperation gives an indication that we are on the right path to providing new distinctive hospitality and housing options, which is in line with Vision 2030. We are excited to announce today the launch of further cooperation with Radisson Hotel Group, which we anticipate will be a fruitful endeavor.”

A combination of both hotel and residential options, the Radisson Hotel Makkah Thakher City will consist of 440 rooms and 206 branded residences, a lobby café, and all-day dining restaurant. For leisure and recreation, the hotel will feature separate ladies and male gym facilities, while the meeting and event spaces will include five meeting rooms as well as three conference rooms.

Known for its modern facilities and contemporary design, Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher City Tower West and Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher City Tower East will be great additions to the existing Park Inn portfolio in the region and are designed to facilitate the pilgrim travelers’ stay and experience in the Kingdom. With clever use of color, contemporary design, and friendly, personalized service, guests can relax while fully embracing their pilgrimage. 

Boasting 203 rooms, the Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher City Tower West offers its guest a lobby cafe and all-day dining restaurant. The upcoming Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher City Tower East houses 143 rooms, a lobby lounge, and one restaurant. 


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ABOUT RADISSON 

 Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian-inspired hospitality, which enables guests to focus on a work/life balance and find harmony in their travel experience. With the nature-inspired design, and unexpected delights, Radisson inspires the art of being in the moment. Committed to building meaningful relationships with guests, Radisson has a Yes I Can! service attitude to ensure the satisfaction of every guest. Radisson hotels can be found in suburban and city settings, near airports and leisure destinations. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson by participating in Radisson Rewards, a global loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards. 

 

Radisson is part of Radisson Hotel Group, which also includes Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels. 
 

For reservations and more information, visit our website. Or connect with Radisson on: 

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New Launch |Wedding Diaries by Hilton launched- A bespoke wedding experience to delight couples getting married

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Wedding Diaries by Hilton launched A bespoke wedding experience to delight couples getting married 

India, September 2021 – Hilton India today announced the launch of Wedding Diaries – to offer guests getting married a bespoke and exemplary experience and create everlasting memories of their wedding.  

A wedding is considered amongst the most intimate and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Wedding Diaries by Hilton will ensure that the entire journey of planning to execute all events is in perfect sync with desired expectations of the guest.  Hilton has also formed a Wedding Advisory Board consisting of well-reputed wedding planners from across the country to assist guests with contemporary ideas to curate the finest wedding experience. The advisory also serves as a think tank that consistently works with the Hilton team towards innovation in the space.

Weddings Diaries offers our guests an opportunity to visualize and co-create their dream wedding with our wedding specialists and have it flawlessly executed. From conceptualizing a theme wedding, or being advised by our wedding planner partners, to having our culinary team prepare and layout nostalgia via food on the table, we will cater to all aspects of organizing a bespoke wedding,”   said Manish Tolani, Commercial Director & Vice President, Hilton India.

 

Whether the wedding locale is a charming riverside venue or a grand ballroom or even nestled amidst the serene Western Ghats, Hilton hotels have the perfect wedding venues for all guests in India. 

To commemorate the launch, Hilton is also offering a Wedding Bliss limited-time offer valid until 31st October for events booked until 31st March 2022. This package offers a Bridal suite along with an In-room breakfast and comes with additional benefits such as:

·   The hotel will organize a photoshoot venue, offer sparkling wine and appetizers to the couple.  

·       The couple will also receive triple Hilton Honors points which can be redeemed to book their honeymoon or a much-needed ‘Just Us’ break after the wedding. To know more, visit www.hilton.com.

 Be it the engagement, bachelor or bachelorette party, bridal shower, Pre-wedding cocktails, traditional wedding ceremony, reception, guests’ services and management or curated menus, Wedding Diaries by Hilton captures every aspect of the wedding journey. Several benefits come along when planning a wedding with Hilton, such as:

·       Dedicated wedding specialist along with an experienced team who truly understands the nuances and importance of each ritual and event leading up to the wedding.

·       A premium ‘monogram’ fine dining menu featuring chefs and cuisines from across our award-winning restaurants in India and APAC.

·       Range of customized amenities such as, in-room Barat welcome hamper, dedicated check-in desk, customised key cards, luggage tags and bath amenities for guests.

·       Personalised amenities, wedding logo on the linen, in-suite breakfast for the couple to name a few. 

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 18 world-class brands comprising more than 6,600 properties and more than 1 million rooms, in 119 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed more than 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, earned a top spot on the 2020 World’s Best Workplaces list, and was named the 2020 Global Industry Leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. In 2020, Hilton CleanStay was introduced, bringing an industry-defining standard of cleanliness to hotels worldwide. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 118 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can’t buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit newsroom.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagram and YouTube. 

About Hilton Honors

Hilton Honors is the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 world-class brands comprising more than 6,600 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 Wi-Fi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app, where members can check in, choose their room and access their room using Digital Key. Hilton Honors offers its more than 118 million members hundreds of ways to earn and redeem Points, including with select co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem Points for free nights, purchases on Amazon, charitable contributions and more. The program is free to join and travelers can enroll online at hiltonhonors.com. Learn more about Hilton Honors at newsroom.hilton.com/hiltonhonors, and follow Hilton Honors on FacebookTwitter and Instagram

 

Appointment | Maurice Van Den Bosch Appointed General Manager at Coco Bodu Hithi

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Coco Collection has appointed Maurice Van Den Bosch as general manager of Coco Bodu Hithi, Maldives. The Australian-Dutch citizen brings in over twenty years of experience in hotel management.

Maurice most recently led the pre-opening team at Le Meridian Maldives Resort & Spa. His experience in managing resorts in the Maldives began in 2017 as resort manager of Ozen by Atmosphere. He later joined Atmosphere Kanifushi as general manager, before being promoted to vice president of operations for Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts in 2019. Back home in Australia, Maurice also worked in food & beverage management and event management in multiple hotels including Novotel Pacific Bay Resort and Ayers Rock Resort.

Drawing upon the unique selling points of Coco Bodu Hithi, Maurice will be focusing on elevating the guest experience and streamlining resort operations in the wake of these challenging times.

“When it comes to management, I truly believe in the idea of ‘All for one and one for All’. The success of the resort can only be achieved with the success of the team that operates it. For me, there is no better achievement than having a team that is empowered to provide the best of service and challenge themselves to new heights,” he said.

Maurice is also looking forward to introducing some new projects and festive delights at Coco Bodu Hithi. “Already on the horizon are a new dining concept and a new kids’ hangout that will be added to the long list of services already on the island. Both will have a very natural relaxed atmosphere component to them. We will be looking to have a beachside dinner with a traditional Maldivian menu where guests can chill out and enjoy a cold beverage while being able to look out over the horizon and soak in the palate of colours that only the Maldives can provide. The Kids’ hangout zone will consist of activities leaning more towards crafts and horticulture, with an area also to laze and relax when it’s time to wind down after a full day of exploring the island and swimming all day long.”


News | Nagpur's Chidambara Hotel will make way for 3-star property

The erstwhile Hotel Royal Palace, which emerged as a landmark during the 1990s — a time when the city’s landscape began to change gradually — but also slipped into oblivion during the years to come, is being demolished.

Now known as Hotel Chidambara on Central Bazar Road in Ramdaspeth, it was also among the prime properties to be auctioned by a bank those days when loan defaults had become a major issue. The hotel was taken over by Shikshak Sahakari Bank, which auctioned it under the Maharashtra State Cooperatives Act to recover its dues.

The current structure is being broken down to pave way for another hotel, a 3-star one.

The property spread in an area of over 9,600 square feet has been purchased by Orient Group, which runs a chain of nine budget hotels in the city.

The property was purchased for INR 12 crore from one Agrawal family, whose members held it after the death of the patriarch Balakrishna Agrawal who had originally bought the hotel from Shikshak Sahakari Bank.

Afzal Mitha of the Orient Group, who confirmed the development, said there are plans to build a new hotel in three years. “The property was purchased last year and now as the situation is improving on the Covid front, we have started with the demolition work,” he said.

The Orient Group plans to build an eight-storeyed structure with 60 rooms in the new hotel, apart from facility like banquet hall, he said.

The Hotel Royal Palace originally belonged to Raj Kumar Khattar, a businessman from the city. As it went into losses, Shikshak Sahakari Bank took over the property. Khattar’s bungalow behind Alankar theatre was also taken over by the bank.

The auction by the bank had gained much attention in 2003. After over three rounds, it finally fetched over INR 4.52 crore, said a source in the bank.

Agrawal had then changed the name from Hotel Royal Palace to Hotel Chidambara. The hotel ran for some years and ultimately closed down around decade ago. Even under the new management, the hotel came under hammer. This time, the action was under Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act (SARFESI Act) by a PSU bank.

Mitha said this would be the first ever premium hotel of the Orient Group. “So far, we have been only into budget hotels where the business depends on volumes,” he added.

Source

 

New Opening | Standard International CEO, Amar Lalvani, Discusses the Outlook for Hospitality and Introduces the newest Standard hotels slated to open in 2021 and 2022

The Standard will open its highly anticipated Asia flagship, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon along with two seaside retreats, The Standard, Hua Hin and The Standard, Ibiza


New York, NY, September 2021– Amar Lalvani, CEO of Standard International (parent company of the Standard Hotels), presents the case for optimism in the hospitality business amidst the ongoing challenges resulting from Covid-19, along with his company’s navigation of the crisis and continued global growth. 

The latest additions to the company’s growing portfolio, The Standard, Hua Hin, The Standard’s first resort in Thailand, will open on December 1st, 2021, followed by The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, the brand’s highly anticipated Asia flagship, which will open in 2022. The Standard is also excited to announce The Standard, Ibiza, also slated to open in 2022. These three new properties will kick off a series of 10 additional landmark projects in highly coveted markets around the world, including: Singapore, Melbourne, Lisbon, Dublin, Brussels and Las Vegas.

“We are incredibly proud to announce the openings of The Standard, Hua Hin, which is set for December, our incredible Asia flagship, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, which will open next year, as well as our second property in Europe, The Standard, Ibiza” said Standard International CEO, Amar Lalvani. “This has been a time of unprecedented crisis for the hospitality industry, and the millions of people around the world who work in the sector. Amidst such challenges, we are incredibly grateful that we continue to be able to delight our guests, serve our communities and create new opportunities for our team members by building landmark hotels around the world.” 

The Standard, Hua Hin, The Standard’s first hotel in Thailand, will open on December 1, 2021. With 178 guest rooms and 21 pool villas with beachfront access, The Standard, Hua Hin will be a timeless destination for the Thai creative set and The Standard’s global network of loyal clientele. A beloved getaway dating back to 1911, Hua Hin emerged as a destination when the construction of the railroad that connects Bangkok with the South first arrived at the pristine little beach town. By the mid-1920s, it became the chosen holiday retreat for the nobility. With time, the sleepy fishing village has transformed into a popular seaside destination without losing its old-world charm. Today, Hua Hin is a favorite weekend escape for residents of Bangkok who have been waiting for exactly what The Standard promises to offer: a stylish and vibrant beachfront resort. One that respects Hua Hin’s understated Thai elegance and appreciation of the history and local setting and combines it with a global sensibility and a bit of fun. 

The Standard, Bangkok Mahankhon will be the Asia flagship for the Standard brand. Opening in 2022, the hotel is already a landmark, housed in the King Power Mahanakhon Building, a 78-story mixed-use building that is one of the tallest in Thailand. Centrally located in the CBD between Sathorn and Silom, the hotel will reflect the dynamic energy of the Thai capital. With 155 rooms, a penthouse, a terrace pool, fitness center, meeting rooms, and a dynamic variety of food, drink and nightlife venues, from The Parlor to the Tea Room and renowned Standard Grill, as well as Thailand’s first outpost of the acclaimed Mott 32 restaurant. The property is designed by Spanish artist-designer Jaime Hayon’s Hayon Studio, in collaboration with The Standard’s award-winning in-house design team, this breath-taking new addition to the Standard portfolio will sit proudly alongside the brand’s award-winning vibrant US and European urban flagships, The Standard, High Line, and Standard, London and in perfect counterpoint to our waterside retreats The Standard, Maldives, The Standard, Miami, and the forthcoming The Standard, Hua Hin and The Standard, Ibiza.

Learn more about our upcoming expansion into Bangkok and Hua Hin, and plan your visit to The Standard, Hua Hin now, with a special opening offer.  Stay tuned for a special offer for The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon via https://www.standardhotels.com/bangkok/properties/bangkok.


About Standard International (The Standard Hotels):

Created in 1999, The Standard hotels are known for their taste-making clientele, their pioneering design, and their unrelenting un-standard-ness. With 7 hotels in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, most recently London and the Maldives, and the upcoming The Standard, Hua Hin, and the Asia flagship, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon slated to open in early 2022, the goal of every Standard project—be it a hotel, a rooftop discothèque, or a magazine—is to defy conventions, up the aesthetic stakes, and deliver an experience that can only be had at The Standard. The Standard’s irreverent and playful sensibility, combined with careful consideration of design, detail, and service, has established its reputation as a pioneer of hospitality, travel, dining, nightlife, and beyond. Sansiri PLC, Thailand’s leading real estate developer made its first investment into Standard International in late November 2017, which increased over time, making Sansiri PLC the majority stakeholder. www.standardhotels.com @thestandard



Visit Maldives | GM Forum ‘21 - Keynotes and Panel Discussions

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GM Forum 2021 will feature three keynote speeches, two presentations and three panels’ discussions.

The first keynote will be given by Dr Abdulla Mausoom, Maldives Minister of Tourism, followed by a keynote from the general manager of Sheraton Maldives Fullmoon Resort & Spa, Emilio Fortini, and chairman, Marriott Business Council. The third feature will be done by Najib Khan, CEO of Ooredoo Maldives. 

The two presentations for GM Forum 2021 are ‘Training Needs Analysis of the Tourism Sector, by portrayal of Meery Project, Ministry of Higher Education, Maldives, and ‘Information driven Storytelling,’ by IDeaS Revenue Solutions (Singapore). 

For this year’s Forum, the panel discussions featured will be; ‘Trends in Destination Marketing,’ featuring Thoyyib Waheed, MD, MMPRC / Visit Maldives and Abdulla Ghiyas, Chair, PATA Maldives, and moderated by Sharaz Hafiz, deputy director, digital marketing and social media; Pulse Hotels & Resorts ‘Connectivity in the New Normal’, featuring Mohamed Mihad, MD, Island Aviation Services Limited and Ahmed Maumoon, deputy CEO, Manta Air, and moderated by Ibrahim Saleem Bandhu. The third panelwill be looking at ‘Human Resource Challenges’ which will feature representatives from the Maldives National University and Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT), and will be moderated by Vaibhav Garg, director for talent and culture, Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives.

GM Forum ‘21 will be at Paradise Island Resort scheduled for 23rd September. General managers and corporate hoteliers representing hospitality brands and properties operating in the Maldives are entitled for free delegates passes.

If you are a GM or a corporate hotelier wishing to attend, please register here

Appointment | Rahul Korgaokar appointed as General Manager,Hilton Garden Inn

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Hilton Garden Inn, Lucknow, has appointed Rahul Korgaokar as General Manager. With 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Korgaokar has worked with Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International. He has also done an entrepreneurial stint, running a chain of bars and restaurants in Bangalore.

An alumnus of the Institute of Hotel Management, Aurangabad (Taj Group) and the Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development, he served as the General Manager of Aurika Hotels & Resorts, the luxury brand of Lemon Tree Hotels, before joining Hilton. Having climbed the ladder through the F&B route, Korgaokar has been a part of a number of pre-opening projects for both hotels and restaurants.

NEWS | Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre celebrated its 7 Years of True Hospitality

Jaipur, September 2021: Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre celebrated its 7 Years of True Hospitality displaying exemplary services and renowned reputation. The hotel commemorated its exceptional  SEVEN-year presence in the city on September 10, 2021, with the IHG Hotels and Resorts – South  West Asia’s Senior Leadership Team, Mr. Vishvapreet Singh Cheema, Director of Operations – SWA;  Mr. Vinay Jaiswal, Director of Human Resources – SWA; Mr. Nalin Mandiratta, Area General  Manager – SWA & General Manager – Crowne Plaza Jaipur; Mr. Pawan Jain, Area Director Finance  – SWA & Director Finance & Business Support, Crowne Plaza Jaipur and Mr. Sheril Beotra, Area  Director Human Resources – SWA & Director Human Resources, Crowne Plaza Jaipur along with the  General Manager, Mr. Pankaj Gupta – Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre. 

“Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre marked its presence in Jaipur’s hospitality business with the official opening on September 1, 2014. The hotel has been a preferred destination for business as well as leisure travelers; making it an ideal backdrop for guests to conduct business or to sit back and relax.  The hotel’s award-winning restaurants are among the city’s favorites that offer specialty dinings such as the Pan - Asian cuisine at Chao – The Chinese Bistro and Indian Fusion and Continental with artisanal cocktails at Roadhouse Bar & Grill and lastly, an International and Rajasthani Buffet spread at Monarch  – All Day Dining. Over the years, the hotel has been recognized by Times Food and Nightlife,  Booking.com, TripAdvisor and received numerous distinguished accolades. We are thankful to our loyal patrons and travelers for their enormous support. We look forward to extending our “True  Hospitality” for all valued guests and ensure them a memorable anniversary month,” says, Mr. Pankaj  Gupta, General Manager, Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre. 

To make this anniversary an occasion to remember and to give guests and the team members even more reasons to celebrate this milestone, the hotel created a 7 Ft. Long Cake with chocolates and exotic fresh fruits to top it all. A grand welcome for the team was organized with a Rajasthani Folk  Dance performance followed by felicitation of the leadership team with a local ‘Paghadi’ (Turban) and  sweet delicacies. The décor was laid out in the lobby for cake cutting ceremony with the Senior  Leadership and Hotel’s team. An elegant yet contemporary Hi-Tea with a thoughtfully crafted menu presenting healthy treats using superfood ingredients, microgreens, berries, and contemporary  Rajasthani fusion food to set the tone for the celebration for our guests and the IHG Leadership team. 

The hotel’s celebration was also about Giving Back and Giving Thanks to society. As part of the IHG  initiative of “Giving For Good”, the celebration was coupled with an extensive Plantation Drive along with the launch of our Organic farm and Recognition of our key performers and team members that have been a part of our hotel for over 7 years now. The Senior Leadership was also present for the graduating ceremony of our I – Grad team member who completed his Internship under the umbrella of IHG Academy. 

The day culminated with an elaborate and sumptuous feast for the team members along with the  Leadership Team and the team bid fond farewell to guests with personalized memorabilia.



Appointment | Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik appoints Mr. Siddharth Joshi as Director of Sales & Marketing

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Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik appoints Mr. Siddharth Joshi as Director of Sales & Marketing

September 2021: Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Siddharth Joshi as Director of Sales & Marketing. 

In his new role Siddharth will lead the sales, marketing, and events teams, charged with optimizing revenue opportunities, and continue to develop the Radisson Hotel Groups’ iconic ‘Radisson Blu’ brand in an emerging destination – Nashik, Maharashtra. 

With a degree in Hotel Management & Catering Technology, his 19 years of experience includes successful stints with large national and international hospitality brands such as the Goa Marriott Resort, JW Marriott Hotel Dubai, UAE, Hyatt Regency Pune, and The Leela Palace Bangalore.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Siddharth Joshi, Director - Sales & Marketing, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik said, “I am both delighted and proud to be presented with the opportunity to join Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik as Director of Sales & Marketing. Touted as one of most anticipated premium leisure, wellness and wedding destinations in Western India, our hotel is all set to offer a fresh exciting concept complete with specially curated experiences against the backdrop of unparalleled views and untouched scenery. I look forward to driving the sales and marketing team to achieve the organizational objectives and growing the business towards productivity”. 


Siddharth will work closely with the leadership team of the hotel to positively impact the overall hotel goals and guest satisfaction. His focus will be to position the hotel as a market leader in the luxury lifestyle segment keeping in mind the evolving market conditions. 


Siddharth is a team player and is passionate about cricket, travel and music.


About Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik

A relaxing oasis perched amidst a panoramic location, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik is nestled at the foothills of the two-millennia old Pandav caves in Nashik.  This modern 5-star urban sanctuary features 224 elegant guest rooms and suites, world-class restaurants, versatile event spaces spanning over 51,000 sq. ft., ideal for large conferences, celebrations, and destination weddings. Redefining luxury in the ‘Wine Capital of India’, the hotel also features premium wellness and fitness facilities, including ATMAN- The Spa, a hair and beauty salon, an exclusive bridal lounge, an outdoor swimming pool, and an internationally acclaimed ASB squash court, against the backdrop of untouched scenery and lush green landscapes. 


An idyllic setting for luxury lifestyle getaway, the hotel is located just off the Mumbai Nashik highway. It's a 30-minute drive from Nashik airport and at a drivable distance from Mumbai and Pune. For more information, please visit: https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-spa-nashik

NEWS | Nirvana’s Signature Resorts sells over 100 units in six months

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one of India’s leading holiday home development companies, Nirvana Realty, in the past six months has shown a notable improvement in their weekend homes sales with over 100 units from their phase-1 section being sold.

The company claims that these homes are 50 percent EMI-free and can offer up to 90 percent more income from rentals than city homes, which can be of great benefit to the homeowners.

The resorts in Khopoli and Wada, located at easily accessible distances from Mumbai, are themed gated-communities, beautifully designed with several amenities such as swimming pools with underwater speakers, musical gardens and so on.

Since the real estate market is currently in a favorable state for home buyers, it is a good time for buyers to invest. Moreover, the strategically located projects earn customers a rental income of up to 10 percent per annum as compared to 2 percent per annum in the city homes.

“We are overwhelmed by the response,” said Nirvana Realty’s CEO, Punit Agarwal. “We have over 250 units that are already booked. Also, Nirvana has ready-to-move units as well as those under construction. We strive to be the trendsetters in the sector of aspirational home townships, conceptualizing and creating such living spaces and communities that redefine the concept of a life that harmonizes luxury with nature. And it is a great feeling seeing this roll into action,” he added.

An important highlight attracting buyers this season is that these holiday homes come with the advantage of a rental management team that assists the customers to manage their property’s rental income and also provides maintenance and housekeeping services without any additional expense.

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Award | Lily Beach Defends Title of Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resort in the Maldives by Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2021

Lily Beach Defends Title of Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resort in the Maldives by Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2021

Lily Beach Resort & Spa has been crowned yet again by Luxury Lifestyle Awards in 2021 in the category of ‘The Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the Maldives’. The award recognises Lily Beach’s excellent all-inclusive Platinum Plan, its unrivalled friendly service culture, and the property’s overall experience offering something for everyone, whether it be for families or for couples.

Luxury Lifestyle Awards is designed to reward the travel industry elite for excellence in a number of categories. The annual awards programme aims to connect people with the best of luxury. They evaluate more than 10,000 goods and services in 400 categories from 60 countries to give travellers a list of the best of the best in the world.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa is a winner of multiple international awards and recognitions. These accolades are a testament to the resort’s continued commitment to providing an excellent 5-star service to guests. Likewise, this is an encouragement for the Lily Beach team to keep delivering an outstanding experience.

“On behalf of the whole team at Lily Beach Resort & Spa, we would like to wholeheartedly thank our guests for choosing us for their stay in the Maldives and for being fans of our Platinum Plan,” says the resort’s Group Director of Sales & Marketing, Mr. Desislav Gospodinov. 

Located on a private island of Huvahendhoo in South Ari Atoll, Lily Beach Resort & Spa is recognised as a leading 5-star All-Inclusive resort in the Maldives and in the world. The resort features its own unique and elevated concept of unpretentious luxury with its generous all-inclusive plan. The plan includes far more than the traditional package of cocktails, premium brands, champagne, and international culinary delights. It adds value with its complementary activities such as one group yoga session with a Yoga Expert, and up to three excursions, which can be selected from fun options such as sunset cruise, fishing trip, and coral garden snorkelling.

Good Food and Enjoyable Activities are the main pillars of the resort. In terms of dining, Lily Beach continues to reinvent culinary offerings to stay abreast of trends in dining experiences, beverages, and presentations – especially with its renowned buffet restaurant: Lily Maa. Rejuvenating therapies are offered at the resort’s picturesque over-water spa pavilions at Tamara Spa and a bevvy of recreation activities are available at the resort to be active after all that dining. These experiences include weight training and cardio at the gym or having a leisurely game of football or tennis. Additionally, the resort also provides snorkelling equipment and has a beautiful house reef and nearby access to more than 50 awesome dive sites just a stone’s throw away from the resort’s vicinity. All these experiences and more await at the at Lily Beach Resort & Spa, only a short 25-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport.

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Appointment | Hardip Marwah joins Andaz Delhi as General Manager

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Hardip Marwah joins Andaz Delhi as General Manager

Andaz Delhi appointed Hardip Marwah as their new General Manager. He is a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry with experience of over two decades. His leadership skills, experience with diverse brands, and evolving understanding of the industry will help him focus on reimagining the experiences which Andaz Delhi offers.

“Having worked across countries and with both the Grand Hyatt and Hyatt Regency brands, it is most exciting to now lead and guide the Andaz brand’s cornerstone hotel in India, Andaz Delhi. I hope to be able to harness my understanding and expertise of working in the hospitality industry across India and UAE and take this hotel and brand to new heights,” said Hardip Marwah, General Manager, Andaz Delhi.

Marwah holds a Bachelor's degree in Commerce from Mumbai University and an Advanced Diploma in Hotel Management from the Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School, Australia. He began his career with Leela Kempinski in Mumbai and commenced his journey with Hyatt Hotels Corporation in 2005 in various key roles. He was previously the General Manager at Hyatt Regency Mumbai.

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Ingredient Ideology | The Celery Connect By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef.

The Celery Connect

Celery is a low-calorie vegetable with a high water content that contains a sizable dose of fiber, along with some vitamins and minerals. It's a convenient on-the-go snack as well as a vegetable that can be incorporated into cooked dishes, stir-fries, and salads.it has a long fibrous stalk tapering into leaves. Depending on location and cultivar, either its stalks, leaves, or hypocotyl are eaten and used in cooking. Celery seed is also used as a spice and its extracts have been used in herbal medicine. 

The first cultivation is thought to have happened in the Mediterranean region, where the natural habitats were salty and wet, or marshy soils near the coast where celery grew in plant communities. North of the Alps, wild celery is found only in the foothill zone on soils with some salt content. It prefers moist or wet, nutrient rich, muddy soils. It is a marshland plant that comes from the same family as carrots and parsley. It has long, firm, pale green fibrous stalks and grows in bunches of approximately eight to 10. The stalks taper into leaves at the top. Although most people discard the leaves, they are also edible. Celery has a mild, earthy, slightly peppery taste.

 The plants are raised from seed, sown either in a hot bed or in the open garden according to the season of the year, and, after one or two thinning’s and transplanting’s, they are, on attaining a height of 15–20 cm (6–8 in), planted out in deep trenches for convenience of blanching, which is effected by earthing up to exclude light from the stems Unlike some vegetables, celery retains most of its nutrients even if it is steamed.

 A study published in 2011 in the journal LWT – Food and Science Technology compared celery that had been steamed, boiled and blanched and found that, after 10 minutes of steaming, the vegetable still maintained 83% to 99% of its antioxidants, compared with uncooked celery. On the other hand, boiling and blanching led to a 38% to 41% loss in antioxidants. Celery is rich in compounds called phytonutrients, which are produced by plants and may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. (Antioxidants are substances that help prevent cell damage, according to the National Institutes of Health; and ant-inflammatory compounds are those that fight inflammation in the body.)  

Celery was first grown as a winter and early spring vegetable. It was considered a cleansing tonic to counter the deficiencies of a winter diet based on salted meats without fresh vegetables. By the 19th century, the season for celery in England had been extended, to last from the beginning of September to late in April. 

Celery is eaten around the world as a vegetable. In North America the crisp petiole (leaf stalk) is used. In Europe the hypocotyl is used as a root vegetable. The leaves are strongly flavoured and are used less often, either as flavorings in soups and stews or as a dried herb. Celery, onions, and carrots make up the French Mirepoix, often used as a base for sauces and soups. Celery is a staple in many soups, such as chicken noodle soup. 

Celery leaves are frequently used in cooking to add a mild spicy flavor to foods, similar to, but milder than black pepper. Celery leaves are suitable dried as a sprinkled on seasoning for use with baked, fried or roasted fish, meats and as part of a blend of fresh seasonings suitable for use in soups and stews. They may also be eaten raw, mixed into a salad or as a garnish.

The seeds can be ground and mixed with salt, to produce celery salt. Celery salt can be made from an extract of the roots or using dried leaves. Celery salt is used as a seasoning, in cocktails (notably to enhance the flavor of Bloody Mary cocktails), on the Chicago-style hot dog, and in Old Bay Seasoning. Similarly, combinations of celery powder and salt are used to flavor & preserve cured pork and other processed meats as alternative to industrial curing salt. The naturally occurring nitrites in celery work synergistically with the added salt to cure food. 


Here are a few health benefits of Celery:

Celery is a low-calorie vegetable that may have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to lower cholesterol levels and arthritis pain, quicken weight loss, protect against oxidative damage, and reduce high blood pressure. Including celery stalks in your diet might promote your overall health as it is rich in vitamin C.

Good for immunity system: Rich in vitamin A and C as well as antioxidants, celery may greatly boost the immune system and make it more active and efficient. Eating this vitamin C rich vegetable regularly can help reduce your risk of catching a common cold, as well as protect you against a variety of other diseases.

Helps reduce blood pressure: Celery contains organic chemical compounds called phthalides. These compounds may help lower the level of stress hormones in your blood. It also contains potassium, which is a vasodilator and can be helpful in reducing blood pressure. When blood pressure is reduced, it puts less stress on the entire cardiovascular system and reduces the chances of developing complications or suffering from a heart attack or stroke.

Has anti-inflammatory properties: Experimental studies show that celery can potentially help reduce inflammation in the body. A 2019 study suggested that celery leaves may affect cytokines, which are immune system messenger molecules responsible for anti-inflammatory effects in the body. This is because the leaves may have high levels of bioactive compounds. Researchers concluded that it can be a potential ingredient for the treatment and prevention of inflammatory diseases. 

Helpful in reducing cholesterol levels: A research study published also suggests that the levers of fiber found in celery may help reduce artery-clogging cholesterol (called LDL or bad cholesterol) The phthalides in these vegetables also may help stimulate the secretion of bile juices, which work to reduce cholesterol levels. Less cholesterol means less plaque on the artery walls and a general improvement in heart health. The fiber that is found in it also can work to scrape the cholesterol out of the bloodstream and eliminate it from the body with regular bowel movements, further boosting cardiovascular health.

Here are a few Culinary Uses of Celery:

  • Though we haven’t seen celery being used much in the indian cuisine and recipes yet, there is a scope and possibility of including it in a varied way and adding a touch of spice to it which can benefit us and also give us variety in our daily foods.

  • Celery added to the kachumber concept with cucumber, onion, tomato, chilies, coriander, lime, roasted crushed peanuts would be one of the good ways to start adding it in.

  • A tempered celery and sesame seed raita, spiced up with a little roasted crushed cumin and a dash of mint and chaat masala is also one of the ways to add it on the side with a meal.

  • Celery in the form of a subzi with cabbage/ carrots/ white radish and a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, dried red chilies did like a foogath or a poriyal concept with a little fresh coconut and coriander can be one of the tasty ways too.

  • Blending it into juice, soups, adding it to baked dishes, stir-fried concepts, adding it into Chinese soups, gravies, fried rice, noodles, pot rice, futchi rice concepts, spring rolls, wontons are quite popular.

Here are a few of my favorite recipes with celery:

Recipe-1] CELERY ALMOND SOUP

Ingredients

Celery- 4-5 stalks, washed, cleaned and roughly cut.

Potatoes- 2 med sized, peeled and cubed

Oil-1 tsp

Butter-1 tsp

Garlic- 2-3 cloves, chopped

Onion-1 small chopped

Bay leaf-1 no

Peppercorns- 3-4 no

Salt and pepper to taste

Water/ veg stock- 2-3 cups

Almond paste-2 tsp

Sliced almonds-2 tsp

Parsley-2 tsp chopped

Fresh cream-2-3 tsp

Flax seeds/ pumpkin seeds- 2 tsp

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the celery and almond soup.

2. Heat oil and butter in a pan, add in the bay leaf, peppercorns, garlic, onions and saute for 1 min.

3. Add in the celery, potato cubes, salt and pepper to taste, add in the water/stock and bring to a boil, simmer for 20-25 mins.

4. Cool the soup, remove the bay leaf, and churn the soup to a well-blended puree and bring it back to a boil. Adjust the texture by adding a little stock.

5. Now add in the almond paste, fresh cream and mix well and check for seasonings.

6. Serve the soup hot garnished with some more almonds, toasted nuts, parsley/cream.

 

Recipe-2] CELERY PEPPER FRIED RICE

Ingredients

Boiled rice- 2 cups- white/brown

Oil-2 tsp

Garlic- 1 tsp chopped

Ginger-1 tsp chopped

Onion-1 small chopped

Celery-1/2 cup stalks- cut into small pieces.

Salt and pepper to taste

Red chili sauce-1 tsp

Schezuan sauce/chutney- 2-3 tsp

Soy sauce-1 tsp

Red Capsicum-1/2 cut into small cubes

Yellow capsicum-1/2 cut into small cubes

Green capsicum-1/2 cut into small cubes

Chicken- boiled/cubed/shredded-1 cup or assorted veggies.

Spring onion greens-1/2 cup chopped

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the fried rice recipe.

2. Heat oil in a pan add in the ginger, garlic, onions, celery and saute for 2 mins.

3. Add in the capsicums/ assorted veggies/ chicken/ scrambled eggs etc and saute for 1 minute, add in the rice, all seasonings, sauces as per taste and mix well.

4. Cover and cook for 3-4 mins on a medium flame, toss well and mix up all ingredients in the pan.

5. Serve hot garnished with spring onion greens.

 

Recipe-3] STIR FRIED CELERY WITH CHICKEN

Ingredients:

Oil-2 tsp

Butter-1 tsp

Garlic-1 tsp chopped

Ginger-1 tsp chopped

Onion-1 small chopped

Celery- 3-4 stalks- cut into strips

Star anise -2 no

Peppercorns-2-3 no

Red chilies-1-2 slit

Green chiles-1-2 slit

Red/ green/yellow capsicums-1/2 cup shreds

Boneless chicken- 1 cup cut into strips

Salt and pepper to taste

Soya sauce-2 tsp

Red chili sauce-1 tsp

Green chili sauce-1 tsp

Honey-1 tsp

Water chestnuts-3-4 no sliced

Water/veg stock -1/2 cup

Corn starch solution-2-3 tsp to thicken

Roasted crushed peanuts-2-3 tbsp.

Spring onion greens- 2-3 tbsp.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the stir fry recipe.

2. Heat oil and butter in a pan add in the star anise, pepper, ginger, garlic, onions, chilies and saute them all for couple of minutes.

3. Add in the chicken pieces and saute them, add in seasonings to taste, little stock/water and allow the chicken to cook for 6-8 mins.

4. Now add in the assorted capsicums, water chestnuts, celery and other veggies if any and cook for 2-3 mins.

5. Add in the corn starch solution and thicken a little to get it all together, adjust seasonings/sauces as per taste, mix well and serve hot garnished with greens.

 

Recipe-4] CELERY & BEAN FRIED RICE

Ingredients:

Boiled rice-2 cups, white or brown

Oil-2 tsp

Butter-1 tsp

Celery-2-3 stalks, cut into small pieces

Garlic-1 tsp chopped

Ginger-1 tsp chopped

Green chilies-1 tsp chopped

Onion-1 small sliced

Bay leaf-1-2 no

Cinnamon stick-1-inch piece

Salt and pepper to taste

Boiled beans- 1 cup- kidney beans/ black beans/ baked beans etc can also be used in this recipe.

Water-1/2 cup

Parsley-2 tsp chopped

Mixed herbs-1/2 tsp

Chili flakes-1/2 tsp

For the base of the rice:

Oil-2 tsp 

Ginger-garlic-1 tsp chopped

Spring onion-2 sliced

Green chilies-2 slit

Salt and pepper to taste

Boneless chicken shredded-1 cup

Soya sauce-2 tsp

Red chili sauce-2 tsp

Mushrooms-1/2 cup sliced

Boiled sweet corn-1/2 cup

Corn starch -2-3 tsp to thicken 

Cheese- 2-3 tsp grated

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the base of the recipe and the fried rice

2. Heat oil and saute the ginger, garlic, chilies, onions and saute for 1 minute, add in the chicken shreds and saute for 1-2 mins, add in the seasonings, mushrooms, corn water/stock and sauces and mix well.

3. Reduce flame and cook for 6-8 mins and then add corn starch solution to thicken it all up.

4. Place this mixture at the base of your serving dish or bowls. Now toss the rice and add it over this and serve.

5. To prepare the fried rice, heat oil and butter in a pan add in the spices, ginger, garlic, chilies, onions and saute for 2 mins.

6. Add in the beans and celery and saute, add seasonings, herbs, chili flakes, sauces to taste and add in the cooked rice and saute it all well for 3-4 mins, cook for 4-5 mins and then place this over the chicken and mushroom mixture and top it up. Garnish with greens and serve hot.

 

ASIAN CELERY STIR FRY.jpg

Recipe- 5] ASIAN CELERY STIR FRY

Ingredients:

Oil-2 tsp

Butter-1 tsp

Red chilies-1-2 slit

Green chilies-1-2 slit

Spring onions- 4-5 no sliced

Celery- 3-4 stalks cut into small pieces

Chicken sausages- 2-3 no sliced

Salt and pepper to taste

Carrot-1 cup strips

French beans- 4-5 sliced

Red capsicum-1/2 no strips

Soy sauce- 2 tsp

Red chili sauce-2 tsp

Peanut butter-2 tsp

Water/stock-1 cup

Mixed herbs-1/4 tsp

Chili flakes-1/4 tsp

Honey-1 tsp

Corn starch solution- 2-3 tsp to thicken

Parsley-2 tsp chopped

Assorted nuts-2-3 tsp sliced

Assorted seeds-2 tsp toasted and added

Spring onion greens- 2-3 tbsp. chopped

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the celery stir fry dish.

2. Heat oil and butter in a pan, saute the chilies, onions, and garlic for a couple of minutes.

3. Add in the chicken sausage pieces and saute for 2-3 mins. Add in seasonings, herbs, chili flakes, honey, sauces, little water and allow the chicken to cook for 6- 8 mins.

4. Add in the carrot and capsicums, peanut butter and adjust it with a little water, cook for 3-4 mins.

5. Now add in a little corn starch solution and thicken up the mixture to a semi-dry/ medium gravy texture, add in nuts and seeds, mix well and garnish with parsley/ spring onions and mix. Serve hot. 

 

Recipe- 6] CELERY AVOCADO TUNA SALAD

Ingredients:

For the base of the salad:

Assorted lettuce leaves-1 cup

For the body of the salad:

Celery-2-3 stalks cut into slices

Avocado-1 ripe, peeled, stoned, cut into cubes

Tuna fish-1 cup, drained from the tin.

For the dressing of the salad:

Mayonnaise sauce-1/2 cup

Salt and pepper to taste

Lime juice-2 tsp

Assorted herbs-2-3 tsp fresh

Mustard paste-1/2 tsp

For the garnish of the salad:

Assorted nuts/seeds-2-3 tsp

Micro-greens-2-3 tsp

Fresh herbs-2 tsp

Cherry tomatoes-3-4 cut

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the salad as listed. We can also use tofu, grilled paneer or grilled veggies, boiled/roast chicken, etc in this salad.

3. In a salad plate, arrange the assorted cleaned, washed, chilled, and crispy lettuce leaves as the base.

4. In a mixing bowl combine together the ingredients for the dressing and mix well.

5. Now add the body of the salad into the dressing and toss it well, check for taste and adjust it accordingly.

6. Dish out the chilled salad onto the serving salad plate and garnish it, serve cold.

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

Appointment | Kabir Suri takes over as the New President of NRAI

Anurag Katriar joins Hari Bhartia, Riyaaz Amlani & Rahul Singh on the Board of Trustees of NRAI

Kabir Suri, Co-Founder & Director, Azure Hospitality, took over as the new President of the National Restaurant Association of India at its 39th Annual General Meeting held online yesterday. The appointment was made unanimously after Anurag Katriar, Executive Director and CEO of Indigo Hospitality’s two-year term came to an end.

Suri has been part of the industry for over a quarter of a century. He has been pivotal in the growth and success of one of the fastest growing hospitality companies, with ever so popular brands under its wing such as Mamagato, Dhaba by Claridges, Sly Granny, Foxtrot Speedy Chow, Rollmaal, Mamapaati and Celeste Food Services. He holds a degree in Economics and Business Management from Wheaton College, Massachusetts, USA. His professional career began from commercial real estate finance in North Fork Bank in New York followed by Argent Fund Management in London as an analyst. His role required him to assist in providing investment strategies and in-depth research focusing on the hospitality segment. Kabir’s personal interests in the hospitality segment led him to the hospitality sector where he spent 3 years with international award-winning restaurants Zuma and Roka. Initially involved with operations, he then shifted to business development, spearheading global expansion and brand development.

Suri has been associated with NRAI since 2017 and was appointed as the Vice President in 2019. He has been very instrumental in handling and resolving pressing issues of the industry.

Expressing gratitude to the Managing Committee, Suri said, “I would like to thank the Managing Committee Members in bestowing the trust in me to carry forward the 39 years legacy of our Association. I will strive to lead the Indian Restaurant Industry into a new era of prosperity, participation and positive perception which advances and safeguards the entrepreneurial spirit. Our collective passion and shared spirit of hospitality will enhance the quality of life that we serve.”

He further said, “I would like to congratulate and thank Anurag for his incredible leadership over last two most critical years. I would personally like to assure him of my relentless quest in accomplishing the tasks at hand to make our industry vibrant and proud.”

While signing off from duties, Anurag said, “I am honoured to have led NRAI over last two years, a period which was very tumultuous and extremely difficult. However, thanks to the collective efforts of everyone, we were able to fight out the adversities pretty well. At NRAI, it is about responsibility by rotation and I am happy that the baton has now passed into the able hands of Kabir. I am sure he will navigate the Association in its journey ahead very competently. He is young, intelligent and also possesses the experience of being an Office Bearer over last couple of years.”

Anurag Katriar completed his scheduled two-year term as the President of NRAI this September. He now joins Mr Hari Bhartia, Mr Riyaaz Amlani and Mr Rahul Singh on the Board of Trustees of NRAI.

Going with the policy of Responsibility by Rotation, the National Restaurant Association of India in its 39th Annual General Meeting (AGM) yesterday announced a significant reshuffle to its Managing Committee with almost 20% of the Managing Committee Members retiring and making way for fresh faces such as Abhimanyu Maheshwari (MD, Zing Restaurants Pvt Ltd), Akshay Anand (Director, Ayesha Hospitality Pvt Ltd), Avantika Sinha (Director, Tasteshop Pvt. Ltd.), Dinesh Arora (Director, MT Hospitality Pvt Ltd), Karyna Bajaj (Executive Director, KA Hospitality Pvt Ltd), Pankil Shah (Director, Neighbourhood Hospitality Pvt Ltd), Shaaz Mehmood (Partner, Olive Bar & Kitchen Pvt Ltd – Hyderabad) & Yash Bhanage (Director, Hunger Inc Hospitality Pvt Ltd).

Anurag Katriar, Past President and Trustee, NRAI, while announcing the new appointments said, “Restaurant Industry stalwarts have come together to promote and strengthen the Indian Food Services Sector. I am extremely thankful to each one of them for agreeing to contribute their valuable time, expertise and efforts for bringing ease of doing business to our beloved industry.”

Other Members of the Managing Committee who continue to serve another term include AD Singh (Managing Director, Olive Bar & Kitchen Pvt Ltd); Aditya Ladsaria (Co-Founder & Director, ALP Retail Pvt Ltd (Chai Break), Kolkata Chapter Head; Amit Roy (Partner, Shilton Hospitality); Kabir Advani (Managing Partner, Berco’s Restaurant); Chef Manu Chandra; Nitin Saluja (Founder, Chaayos); Pranav Rungta (Director, Mint Hospitality Pvt Ltd), Mumbai Chapter Head; Priyank Sukhija (Chairman, First Fiddle Hospitality), Delhi Chapter Head; Rachel Goenka (Founder & CEO, The Chocolate Spoon Company); Rohit Aggarwal (Director, Lite Bite Foods Pvt Ltd); Sandeep Anand Goyle (Director, Essex Farms (P) Ltd.); Sharad Batra (MD, Batra Brothers (Cafe Delhi Heights); Thomas Fenn (Partner, Mahabelly); Varun Tuli (Managing Director, Yum Yum Cha); Zorawar Kalra (Founder & Managing Director, Massive Restaurants Pvt Ltd), apart from the Office Bearers who anyways serve on the Managing Committee.

New Collaboration | Vivaah at Novotel collaborates with Indian Matchmaker Sima Taparia

Vivaah at Novotel collaborates with Indian Matchmaker Sima Taparia

AT AN EXCLUSIVE RENDEZVOUS FOR ITS ALL MEMBERS THE EVENT CONJURED A DIALOGUE ON THE MODERN ART OF MATCHMAKING, VIRTUAL WEDDINGS IN THE CONTEXT OF INDIA, AND NAVIGATING THROUGH THE PANDEMIC  


Hyderabad 11th September :Weddings are joyful occasions, which mark the beginning of a new chapter, an occasion filled with memories that will be carried for the rest of one's life. However, due to the post - pandemic new normal witnessed by everyone, social gathering and wedding celebrations have witnessed an overhaul. Indian weddings are known for elaborate celebrations and lavish feasts, that have now been minimized as an aftermath of the pandemic to hybrid celebrations. Ms. Sima Taparia the Indian Matchmaker joined Ms. Kerrie Hannaford, Vice President Commercial, Accor India & South Asia to discuss some of this new trend and how the millennial audience is meeting, dating, and making the decision to get married in the New Normal.

Sima Taparia mingled with ALL- Accor Live Limitless members, as well as prominent Telangana & Andhra Pradesh wedding planners and brides -to- be in an intimate evening. Discussions revolved around the importance of matchmaking, the forthcoming wedding season, and selecting the ideal setting for a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. The Guests enjoyed a delectable spread of gourmet delicacies and were left spellbound with the enchanting setup and lovely ambiance.

Sima Taparia said , “It's interesting to see how people across the world have adapted to the effects of the pandemic on weddings, India is no different. Having worked with numerous families over the past year and a half, we have had to work around multiple solutions to ensure everyone's interests and priorities are taken care of. 'Vivaah at Novotel' is a great example of how the new normal weddings can still be as fun, making sure all-important guests are catered to, with the same experience even when they are not able to attend in person."

Kerrie Hannaford, VP, Commercial, Accor India and South Asia said, We are very excited to have Sima Aunty join us at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, speaking to our loyalty members about her experience managing weddings during the pandemic. Having spoken to thousands of millennials, their parents, and their families, Sima is in a unique position and understands the dynamics of marriages across the world. When we launched 'Vivaah at Novotel' last year, we knew it was the solution people were looking for, that fits perfectly with requirements of our reality today. The response so far has been phenomenal and insights from Sima have helped our guests make some critical decisions when it comes to planning weddings as well."

The new normal has witnessed a complete transition towards contact-less food services and micro wedding ceremonies while keeping in mind the present norms of socially distanced gatherings. Keeping up with the need today, we developed ‘Vivaah at Novotel’, a modern-day concept focused on virtual weddings. With ‘Vivaah at Novotel’ our aim is to bring the couple’s dear ones closer to them on their wedding day through a web telecast of the wedding to their relatives and friends present in different cities. The extended family gets a chance to share every moment of the wedding with their loved ones in real-time - the joy of togetherness, the singing, and dancing during the baraat, several rituals, multiple ceremonies, even from miles apart. Two very interesting additions to this concept are ‘Dawaat by Novotel’ and ‘Shagun by Novotel’ for food and gift hampers respectively, which are the two integral parts of any Indian wedding.

Manish Dayya, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre, said “We are extremely delighted to host the most renowned Indian matchmaker Sima Taparia.  The event provided an excellent opportunity to understand and discuss the present-day matchmaking and wedding requirements while looking for intelligent solutions. We are overwhelmed by the positive response we have received for this wonderful evening. With 'Vivaah at Novotel', we have been able to adopt to the new normal by offering Hybrid models to ensure guests can continue to have their dream weddings. We offer the perfect location for wedding celebrations providing multifunctional spaces that allow the most improbable dreams of brides and grooms come true with a personalized flavour added to the mix.”

The property offers a unique opportunity to celebrate this time-honoured sacred relation and ensure that guests indulge in the company of their loved ones and their hearts are charged with magical and memorable moments. The team and staff ensure that one’s vision for their dream day becomes a reality by helping the family through the planning process at every step of the way to ensure their day is exactly the way they envisioned it.  The venue offers the best solutions for a dream wedding right from conception to realization.   

New Opening | Sterling Holiday Resorts expands into 5 new destinations

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The company will continue to expand using an asset-light model of taking up resorts on management contracts.

Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited announced expansion into five new destinations located in different regions in the country. This is in line with the brand’s aggressive strategy to double its room inventory to 5,000 by the year 2025. With the addition of these new resorts, Sterling’s inventory will move to 2,400 rooms in 38 destinations.

The hospitality company is opening resorts at Alleppey in Kerala; Gir in Gujarat; Kalimpong in West Bengal; Madurai and Tiruvannamalai in Tamilnadu. The resort in Alleppey has 58 rooms and suites spread across 14 acres. The unique resort in Gir is spread across 7 acres and is within a mango orchard. Sterling’s Kalimpong resort will be its second offering in West Bengal after Darjeeling.

“Our new locations along with our existing network is aimed at meeting the multiple holiday needs of the Indian customer – from leisure holidays in the hills, beaches, waterfronts and jungles to quick-breaks in drive-to destinations, to visiting heritage locations and pilgrimage destinations,” Ramesh Ramanathan, CMD, Sterling Holiday Resorts said.

In the recent past, Sterling Holiday Resorts reported their Q1 FY22 results with gross revenue of 4,159 lakhs, which is a 129 percent y-o-y growth over the same quarter last year. The revenue reported from resorts rose to INR 1,438 lakhs in Q1 FY22 from 632 lakhs in Q1 FY21, while the revenue reported from memberships rose to 2,721 lakhs in Q1 FY22 from 1,182 lakhs in Q1 FY21.

Sterling aims to continue its aggressive expansion plans and come up with more resorts across the country. It will continue to expand using an asset-light model of taking up resorts on Management Contract.
Source

NEWS | Bill Gates' investment firm to take control of Four Seasons in $2.21 bln deal

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Bill Gates' Cascade Investment LLC is taking control of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts by buying about half of Saudi Arabian Prince Alwaleed bin Talal's stake for $2.21 billion, the hotel operator said on Wednesday.

Cascade will acquire half of the billionaire prince's stake in Four Seasons, raising its ownership to 71.3% and valuing the hotel chain at $10 billion on an enterprise basis.

Prince Alwaleed, through investment vehicle Kingdom Holding Co (4280.SE), will continue to own the remaining stake, Four Seasons said in a statement.

While the prince owns stakes in many companies such as Citigroup Inc (C.N) and ride-hailing firm Lyft Inc (LYFT.O), his investment firm has been selling its stakes in hotels over the last 10 years

Appointment | Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik Appoints Julien Lloyd As Hotel Manager

After an outstanding career trajectory with over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Julien joins Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik as Hotel Manager. 

Hailed for his business acumen, people-oriented management style and attention to detail, Julien holds a remarkable track record of successfully opening and transforming several luxury hotels and concept driven restaurants in India. From his very first stint as an apprentice with the Taj Group of Hotels to propelling the operations of Asia’s biggest and India’s most iconic nightclub - Fire N’ Ice, he had garnered a strong foothold in the hospitality industry at a very young age and concurrently became extremely prominent in the social circuit of Mumbai. 

Since then and throughout his career Julien has occupied senior roles in award-winning hotels such as JW Marriott Juhu, Mumbai and Grand Hyatt Mumbai where he played a vital role in launching two of its exceptionally popular and iconic restaurants - Celini and the China House, both being game changers in India’s ever flourishing food and beverage scene. He has also been part of the pre-opening team at Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad, and at Park Hyatt Chennai – a luxury brand of the Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, he was privileged to receive the Condé Nast Traveller award for The Flying Elephant, one of India’s most theatrical and eclectic food and beverage spaces.

A creative, friendly, and passionate hospitality professional, Julien now joins Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik as the Hotel Manager, bringing his vision for progressive F&B concepts and cultivating a culture of genuine care and sincere service to cement the hotel’s position as a premium destination for leisure, business, and social guests. 

Commenting on his appointment, Julien Lloyd, said, “It’s a privilege for me to be a part of a premium lifestyle hotel which is truly a reflection of passion, forward-thinking and poised intentionality. The laser sharp precision in the detailing and execution of progressive concepts, story lines, as well as design elements makes it truly worthy of being called a hand-crafted hotel. 

I am blessed and humbled to be part of such a diverse and high calibre team. I look forward to a successful tenure under the leadership of our General Manager, Mr Gopinath Gopalan. With a focused commitment to enhancing all our stakeholders and community experiences, I will undertake responsibilities for the operational, experiential and commercial performance of the hotel.”

About Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik

A relaxing oasis perched amidst a panoramic location, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik is nestled at the foothills of the two-millennia old Pandav caves in Nashik.  This modern 5-star urban sanctuary features 224 elegant guest rooms and suites, world-class restaurants, versatile event spaces spanning over 51,000 sq. ft., ideal for large conferences, celebrations, and destination weddings. Redefining luxury in the ‘Wine Capital of India’, the hotel also features premium wellness and fitness facilities, including ATMAN- The Spa, a hair and beauty salon, an exclusive bridal lounge, an outdoor swimming pool, and an internationally acclaimed ASB squash, against the backdrop of untouched scenery and lush green landscapes. 

Anantara Hotels | Koh Samui’s Fishermen’s Village Debuts “A.Shore” Beach Bar the Island’s Newest Hot Spot

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With the re-opening of Koh Samui to international tourism there is a new place for families and friends on the island to kick back with a drink, trade stories and enjoy the islands natural beauty. A.Shore Beach Bar is a haven where the islands trendsetters can find refuge and relax with a glass of a refreshing beverage and a plate of simple, wholesome food.

Putting a 21st century spin on the idea of a tropical paradise, the rustic looking bar is peppered with Instagram-friendly spots, the furniture and furnishings are made from reclaimed wood, including a boat that before getting a new lease on life as a glamourous beach sofa was a hard-working fishing vessel. Set on a whitewashed deck, swings, beanbags and beach beds create an inviting display against the shimmering backdrop of Bophut’s stunning white sand beach.