NEWS | Kerala Tourism welcomes the first batch of tourists to the newly-built cruise terminal in Cochin Port

The Lakshadweep-bound luxury cruise M V Empress carrying 1200 travellers had a stop-over here with 300 travellers de-boarding the ship for a day-long on-shore sightseeing

The newly-built cruise terminal in Cochin Port received the first batch of tourists as the luxury liner M V Empress from Mumbai called at the port city, marking a promising start to the revival of post-pandemic domestic tourism in Kerala.

The Lakshadweep-bound luxury cruise carrying 1200 travellers had a stop-over here with 300 travellers de-boarding the ship for a day-long on-shore sightseeing.

Kerala Tourism Department accorded a warm welcome to the guests with martial Velakali dancers and women in traditional off-white dress greeting them.

The snow-white vessel, owned by Cordelia Cruises, became the first luxury cruise to anchor at the state-of-the-art terminal, after the devastating Covid-19 pandemic swept across the world.  

The Cochin Port wore a festive look, as Velakali performers holding sword and shield swayed with graceful vigour in two rows, showcasing the richness of the medieval cultural form.

“I am from Indore in Madhya Pradesh. This is a particularly exciting reception,” said a middle-aged passenger walking past the Velakali dancers besides more than a dozen women facing each other in a line-up and presenting bouquets to the guests. “We plan to explore some of the heritage pockets of Kochi,” the passenger said.

The day-long Kochi leg scheduled a round of Mattancherry and Fort Kochi, touching several points of historical importance. Boat rides along the backwaters for the tourists to take in the charm of the ‘Queen of Arabian Sea’ were also arranged.

The Lakshadweep islands is the next destination of the liner, but passengers who have opted for just the Kochi package will be taken to other parts of the state, according to Voyages Kerala, the tour agent.

The tourists walked down the new-look terminal around 9.30 a.m, one-and-a-half hours after MV Empress anchored at the terminal in sunny weather. The guests were received by Kerala Tourism Joint Director Shri K. Radhakrishnan and Deputy Director Shri T G Abhilash besides top officials at the port.

With today’s event, Kerala Tourism signals a busy future following the waning of the pandemic even as the on-shore tour adheres to the strict Covid-19 protocols.

Appointment | Amit Kumar Mehta joins Courtyard by Marriott Bhopal as Director of Food and Beverage

He will be responsible for heading and managing the Food and Beverage operations

Courtyard by Marriott Bhopal has announced the appointment of Amit Kumar Mehta as Director of Food and Beverage.

Mehta comes with a formidable experience of over 18 years in the hospitality industry that has seen him convert visions into measurable results.

A highly motivated individual, he believes in implementing knowledge to the fellow team members to ensure they perform to their full potential at the highest level & grow within the company. His passion for service and building great relationships is what drew him to this industry.

He began his career in the year 2003 with Taj as an F&B mixologist and that's where he took a flight. Amit kept building the overall skill set that took him to various established properties that contributed to his growth. He joined Marriott in 2013 at the JW Aerocity New Delhi & his last assignment before joining Courtyard by Marriott Bhopal, he was at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Marriott Mai Khao Beach & Vacation Club as a Cluster Director of Events.

Amit has handled large operations with a keen understanding of Food and Beverage. As the Director Food & Beverage at Courtyard by Marriott Bhopal, he will be responsible for heading and managing the Food and Beverage operations and maintaining high standards of guest satisfaction. He will closely work with the sales and marketing team to enhance brand visibility for the hotel's food and beverage department and drive revenue.

When he is not at work, you will see him on road or no road with his 4-wheel drive discovering hidden places to visit. He also loves being an aqua man in his free times.

Appointment | Rinku Rai joins Fairmont Jaipur as Spa Manager

She will helm the spa & wellness experiences at the Ruhab Spa

Fairmont Jaipur has announced the appointment of Rinku Rai as the Spa Manager, who will helm the spa & wellness experiences at the Ruhab Spa.

With an enriching experience of 09 years, Rinku has worked with the Four Seasons Hotels across the globe at Lisbon, Johannesburg, Seychelles and UAE. Rinku will handle the Spa operations and spearhead a talented team of Spa specialists to further strengthen the guest experience.

Rajiv Kapoor, General Manager Fairmont Jaipur, welcomed Rinku and expresssed“We are delighted to have Rinku join our team. With her extensive global understanding of Spa operations, she will be instrumental in ensuring the holistic wellness and relaxing experiences for our guests.We hope that we will continue to enhance and innovate at Ruhab to exceed our guest expectations, underher leadership.”

Rinku holds a Spa diploma from Ananda Spa Institute and has undertakenextensive wellness training to understand Ayurvedic treatments. In her past experience, she has received multiple trainings on unique Spa programmes and therapies like lava shell massage, reflexology, hot stone treatment to name a few.

With her unique on-ground experience, she is a perfect fit to lead the spa offering at the only Fairmont hotel in India.

NEWS | Carnival Corporation on Pace to Restart Over 50% of Fleet Capacity by October

Carnival Corporation on Pace to Restart Over 50% of Fleet Capacity by October

World's largest cruise company to resume guest cruise operations on 42 ships through the end of October across eight cruise line brands - Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK), and Cunard
The company's current operations and announced sailings to date continue building momentum for the ongoing restart of cruise vacations, as part of an overall goal to return nearly 65% of capacity to begin the New Year

MIAMI, Sept.2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), the world's largest cruise company, today announced that it expects to return over 50% of its total fleet capacity to guest cruise operations by the end of October, representing an important milestone for the company's previously announced plans to resume service with nearly 65% of its fleet capacity to begin the New Year.

To date, eight of the company's nine cruise line brands – Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK), and Cunard – have resumed guest sailings. By the end of October, those eight brands have announced they will be operating 42 ships, marking the return of over 50% of the company's global fleet capacity, as part of overall restart efforts around the world. Additional brand updates on the resumption of guest cruise operations will be forthcoming in the coming weeks, including details on ships and itineraries.

Collectively, the corporation's brands are resuming operations using a gradual, phased-in approach, with sailings from major global ports in multiple regions around the world, including the U.S., Mexico, Caribbean, United Kingdom, Western Europe and the Mediterranean, among others. The cruises operate with enhanced protocols developed in conjunction with government and health authorities, and informed by guidance from the company's public health, epidemiological and policy experts. This includes operating vaccinated cruises with updated testing and masking policies that follow the latest guidance, while creating extraordinary vacation experiences that continue to generate high guest satisfaction scores.

"Based on our initial restart of guest cruise operations across eight brands, it is clear from our guests that there is tremendous confidence in our brands, our health and safety protocols, and the return of cruising as one of the world's most popular vacations," said Roger Frizzell, chief communications officer for Carnival Corporation. "As the restart of cruising continues to gain momentum and create positive economic activity for people who depend on our industry to make a living, we look forward to serving our guests with more than half our fleet capacity returning in October, while delivering a great guest experience and serving the best interests of public health. Our highest responsibility and top priority remains compliance, environmental protection, and the health, safety and well-being of our guests, our shipboard and shoreside personnel, and the communities we visit."

The following summarizes Carnival Corporation's brand restart announcements to date, including those contributing to the 50% milestone in October, along with plans for additional ship restarts as part of the company's overall goal to return nearly 65% of capacity by December 31, 2021.

North America Brands:

• Carnival Cruise Line plans to have 13 ships sailing in October and a total of 17 ships by year-end.

• Princess Cruises plans to have six ships sailing in October, with eight total ships in operation by the end of the year.

• Holland America Line plans to have four ships in operation in October, with a total of six ships in operation by the end of the year. Additionally, the brand has announced plans for all 11 ships in its fleet to be in service by spring 2022.

• Seabourn plans to operate its full fleet by spring 2022, including a new expedition ship with its first sailing in April 2022, totaling six ships in service next year.

Europe & Asia Brands:

• Costa Cruises plans to have five ships in operation in October, with a total of six ships in operation by the end of the year.

• AIDA Cruises plans to have eight ships in operation in October, with a total of 10 ships in operation by the end of the year.

• P&O Cruises (UK) plans to have three ships in operation in October, with a total of four ships in operation by the end of the year. Additionally, the brand has announced plans to operate its full fleet by spring 2022.

• Cunard plans to have two of the three ships in its fleet in operation by the end of the year. Additionally, the brand has announced plans to resume operations with its remaining ship in spring 2022.

In working with global and national health authorities and medical experts, as well as authorities in global destinations, the company's brands have developed a comprehensive set of health and safety protocols for protection against and mitigation of COVID-19 across the entire cruise experience. This includes cross-industry learnings and best practices based on the proven health and safety record of industrywide sailings, and input from top science and health experts and health authorities. Protocols have been and will continue to be updated based on evolving scientific and medical knowledge related to mitigation strategies. Additional information on enhanced protocols, including the latest information and policies for each Carnival Corporation cruise line brand, is available on individual brand websites.

Cautionary Note Concerning Factors That May Affect Future Results

Some of the statements, estimates or projections contained in this document are "forward-looking statements" that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions with respect to us, including some statements concerning our resuming of cruise operations in the US, Caribbean and Europe. These statements are intended to qualify for the safe harbors from liability provided by Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical facts are statements that could be deemed forward-looking. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about our business and the industry in which we operate and the beliefs and assumptions of our management. We have tried, whenever possible, to identify these statements by using words like "will," "may," "could," "should," "would," "believe," "depends," "expect," "goal," "anticipate," "forecast," "project," "future," "intend," "plan," "estimate," "target," "indicate," "outlook," and similar expressions of future intent or the negative of such terms.

Because forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are many factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. This note contains important cautionary statements of the known factors that we consider could materially affect the accuracy of our forward-looking statements and adversely affect our resuming of risk operations. Such risks, uncertainties and factors include the risk factors discussed in Item 1A of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC").

Forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a prediction of actual results. Subject to any continuing obligations under applicable law or any relevant stock exchange rules, we expressly disclaim any obligation to disseminate, after the date of this document, any updates or revisions to any such forward-looking statements to reflect any change in expectations or events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based.

About Carnival Corporation & plc

Carnival Corporation & plc is one of the world's largest leisure travel companies with a portfolio of nine of the world's leading cruise lines sailing to all seven continents. With operations in North America, Australia, Europe and Asia, its portfolio features Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises (Australia), Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK) and Cunard.

Additional information can be found on www.carnivalcorp.com, www.carnival.com, www.princess.com, www.hollandamerica.com, www.seabourn.com, www.pocruises.com.au, www.costacruise.com, www.aida.de, www.pocruises.com and www.cunard.com.

NEWS | Radisson Hotel Group announces a record year in the Middle East & Africa, with over 20 hotels and 4,000 rooms signed to date

Radisson Hotel Group announces a record year in the Middle East & Africa, with over 20 hotels and 4,000 rooms signed to date

Radisson Hotel Group, one of the world’s leading hotel groups, is proud to announce a record year in its fastest growing region, the Middle East & Africa, with 21 signings and seven hotel openings achieved thus far. The Group’s expansion drive includes the announcement of eight hotels in Morocco, the entry into Thakher Makkah with nearly 1,000 rooms, as well as the introduction of the Radisson Individuals brand in both the Middle East & Africa. From opening the first Radisson hotel in Dubai and Africa’s second Radisson RED in South Africa, to multiple Radisson Blu resort offerings, it has been a year lined with significant milestones for the Group. 

With additional hotel signings and a further seven openings across destinations such as the UAE, Madagascar and Saudi Arabia expected before year end, Radisson Hotel Group remains prudently optimistic regarding the business recovery within the last quarter of 2021. 

With more than 100 hotels currently in operation and 70 under development across the region, the Group’s aggressive expansion places them firmly on track to reach over 250 hotels in its Middle East & Africa portfolio by 2025. Radisson Hotel Group has put forward growth priorities across key markets such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Egypt and South Africa. 

The Middle East

With over 75 hotels in operation and under development, the Middle East remains a key focus for Radisson Hotel Group’s global strategy as it is set to reinforce its position as a global leader across the region, striving to reach 100 hotels by 2025. In line with the Saudi Vision 2030, the group has placed a focus in further expanding its presence across the Kingdom and across all segments from resorts to city hotels but also serviced apartments and conversion offerings.

As the economic and commercial capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is the largest city and remains a strategic destination for the group’s expansion. The recent signing of Radisson Blu Resort, Riyadh Hills Itlalat and Radisson Blu Resort, Riyadh Hills Shalalah, is in line with the group’s ambition to continuously supplement this market with modernized and exceptional experiences. 

Strengthening the group’s brand presence across Radisson Blu, Park Inn by Radisson, and Radisson Individuals, the signing of Vivid Jeddah Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals; the Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah Al Hamra and the Park Inn by Radisson Jeddah Al Hamra, all set to open in 2022, will add a total of 625 rooms, doubling the Group’s portfolio in Jeddah. Further expanding its presence within the Holy Cities, Radisson Hotel Group’s recent announcements within the Thakher Makkah megaproject will be adding nearly 1,000 rooms and apartments, doubling the Group’s portfolio in Makkah, a key target growth market in Saudi Arabia. 

From the first airport hotel located in Riyadh to the second Radisson Collection in Saudi Arabia, the group aims to open an additional four properties during the last quarter to reach the total addition of 1,000 keys in Riyadh alone this year. With the ambition to double the portfolio across the region, Radisson Hotel Group continues to drive their growth journey across sub-markets and support investors to develop and operate real estate efficient operations with a pragmatic approach to conversion solutions, especially during these unprecedented times.  

In addition, the past few months have marked the Group’s expansion of its serviced apartments portfolio which will be developed as a brand extension to cater to the different segments from midscale to luxury. Radisson Hotel Group announced plans to more than double its Serviced Apartment portfolio within the next 5 years. 

Elie Milky, Vice President, Development, Middle East, Cyprus, Greece and Pakistan said: “With the launch of Radisson Individuals and the reinforcement of our strategy for resorts as well as serviced apartments, we stay more relevant to changing owner needs and remain one of the best conversion-friendly partners in the industry. Our focus on conversions and our recent signings have resulted in a target opening of 1,800 keys this year in the Middle East alone, with at least 1,500 keys planned to open in 2022.” 

“Over the recent months, resorts and serviced apartments have proven to be very resilient and attractive asset propositions to our investors which have further strengthened our commitment to these alternative hospitality models. Moving forward, we aim to continue expanding our brand architecture covering all relevant product types as we strengthen our presence across the Middle East, primarily in the key markets of Saudi Arabia and the UAE. We have a very proactive and engaging approach with our partners and investors, and we believe in building long-standing relationships with our owners based on trust and responsibility.”

Africa

From a single hotel in Africa 20 years ago, Radisson Hotel Group’s African portfolio has grown to almost 100 hotels in operation and under development in more than 30 countries across the continent, cementing the Group’s leading position as the hotel company with the largest active presence in the most countries across Africa. 

Setting a hotel expansion record in Africa with 13 hotel signings to date, translating to a new hotel signed every 20 days, the Group remains firmly on track with their ambitious development strategy to reach over 150 hotels by 2025 across the continent. 

These signings, reinforcing the Group’s expansion strategy, have secured a record growth in Morocco with an additional nine hotels, comprising of two hotels in Casablanca, including the debut of the Radisson brand with the Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle and the recent partnership established with Madaef which translates to seven additional hotels across key leisure destinations in the country. The group has also announced the launch of their first project, the Earl Heights Suite Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals in Accra, Ghana joining their new affiliation brand; their market entry in Victory Falls with the introduction of Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-Oa-Tunya Livingstone as well as another new entry with Radisson Hotel Djibouti. The most recent announcement was the Radisson Hotel Middleburg which further complements the Group’s presence across South Africa.   

These hotel signings equate to almost 2,500 rooms, most of which are located in the Group’s core focus countries, especially across Morocco, with the remainder reinforcing their presence in cluster markets or entering into new territories. 

Ramsay Rankoussi, Vice President, Development, Africa & Turkey at Radisson Hotel Group, said: “For the remainder of the year, we will continue to build on the success and momentum we’ve had thus far, with a continued focus on our identified key markets, specifically Morocco, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa. We aim to further accelerate our presence across the continent through both new build and conversions. Africa is mainly led by business hotels, but with the recent signings, we have expanded our leisure offerings and serviced apartments which has not only proven resilient during COVID-19 but is also fueling a faster recovery. Our ambitions are driven by creating critical mass in each of our identified focus markets but also ensuring market proximity. These regions are sub divided based on priorities, focus and potential scale.”

“Despite the current situation and supporting our robust expansion strategy, our teams are working tirelessly to realize the pipeline, with eight hotel openings in Africa this year. We have already opened five hotels, consisting of four of the seven hotels we’ve just announced in Morocco, which consist of resorts and residences as well the opening of Africa’s second Radisson RED hotel in Rosebank. The remaining three hotels, all due to open before year-end, represent our debut in Madagascar with a portfolio of three hotels.”

Building on the success of the Group’s five-year expansion and transformation plan, Radisson Hotel Group is ready for the rebound of travel and remains firmly committed to becoming the brand of choice for owners, partners, and guests.

Appointment | Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad (Ramdevnagar) appoints Tushar Pawar as Director of Sales

He brings with him over 12 years of experience with international hotel chains like Marriott International, Starwood & IHG.

Tushar Pawar has joined Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad as the Director of Sales w.e.f. August 2, 2021. In his new role, Tushar Pawar will lead Sales, charged with optimizing revenue opportunities and continue to increase market share while creating adequate revenue opportunities.

He brings with him over 12 years of experience with international hotel chains like Marriott International, Starwood & IHG.

He started his career in Sales and assumed various roles eventually leading the Sales team at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan in 2019.

In a very short time, he was given the responsibility of leading the Sales team and took on the challenge of delivering results. He has been instrumental in taking the sales team over the threshold to achieve new heights of success.

His background in business gives him an overall understanding of customer satisfaction and motivating his colleagues, which has led to his continued success.

During his spare time, Tushar likes to engage in various sports activities especially cricket and also loves spending time with family and friends.

NEWS | FSSAI introduces new logo for ‘vegan’

The Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) of India  has introduced a new logo to identify vegan products in the country on Tuesday. Green in colour, it has a V inscribed in the middle with a small plant on top of it and Vegan written at the bottom.

The food regulator informed that the design resonates with the current logo, which is a green and brown dot in the middle of a square,  respectively, for vegetarian and non-vegetarian products. FSSAI.

The logo has been developed by Kruti Manish Rathore of Mount Caramel College, Bangalore, pursuing Masters in Food Science and Nutrition, under the guidance of Sangeeta Pandey.

Visit Maldives | RCI members can now experience the best of Maldives

Right since July of 2021, when the island nation reopened its travel boarders to international tourist, there has been a robust rise in vacation queries and booking

RCI, the global leader in holiday exchange and part of the Panorama collection of travel brands at Travel + Leisure Co. celebrates with affiliated resorts in Maldives on the return of inbound foreign traveler to the island. Right since July of 2021, when the island nation reopened its travel boarders to international tourist, there has been a robust rise in vacation queries and booking by RCI members across the globe to Maldives.

According to a recent RCI booking trends report, Maldives emerged as the most popular and largest international tourist destination amid pandemic in 2021. The report states that overall search for Maldives as a destination on RCI.com increased multiple folds to 595%. Q1 and Q2 of 2021 have seen the highest volume of RCI members opting for Maldives as a preferred destination, the booking trend shows an increase of 151% in first quarter and 195% in second quarter of 2021. Top 10 countries with high volume of Booking in RCI for Maldives are India, The United States of America, China, Vietnam, England, Brazil, Australia, Canada, Finland and South Africa.

Commenting on the data research, Paul Mulcahy, Managing Director for RCI APAC, India & EMEA shared, “We are pleased to see RCI contributing to the  grand scheme of tourism growth, India has emerged as one of the top source markets for tourist arrivals in the Maldives in 2021. Members are increasingly seeking more information and are inquisitive to know about safety standards, flexible cancellation policies etc. We anticipate demand for Maldives travel not only from India but also other countries such as The United States of America, China, Vietnam, England, Brazil, Australia, Canada and South Africa”.

As per the report, the overall demand by RCI members from India experienced a surge in overall demand by 245% in the first half of 2021 as compared to 2020. The booking trends also showcases an increase of 143% in first quarter and 656% in second quarter of 2021 when compared with the same time period in 2020. The most favored Maldives resorts chosen by RCI members are surrounded by turquoise waters that shine with coral and marine life, to name a few these being Medhufushi Island Resort, Filitheyo Island Resort, Hondaafushi Island Resort, Grand Park Kodhipparu. The members also have hotel options available through Alliance Reservations Network (ARN).

Commenting on the rise in bookings for Maldives, Munaz Maharoof, General Manager, AAA Resorts shared “We have started seeing signs of recovery with regard to tourism in Maldives and have witnessed a wide array of interest from travelers across the globe over the last few months, which affirms their keenness to travel to a safe destination. The island aims to achieve 1.5 million tourist arrivals in 2021 and are accepting bookings to go back to pre-covid levels by December 2021 and are constantly adding new products and attractions in order to cater to the increasing arrivals. Today we are very well prepared to welcome the guests by providing them with upmost AAA Standard for Care, Safety and Cleanliness at our resort.”

New Opening | The Fern Hotels & Resorts opens its seventh hotel in Karnataka

With this new opening, the company’s overall count has extended to 83 operational hotels across the country

Concept Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. has opened its seventh hotel in Karnataka with The Fern Residency, Hubballi. With this new opening, the company’s overall count has extended to 83 operational hotels across the country and in Nepal and Seychelles.

Suhail Kannampilly, CEO, Concept Hospitality-The Fern Hotels & Resorts said “We are delighted to bring our eco-friendly Fern brand to this historical city, to complement our other six Fern hotels in the State, in Belagavi, Bengaluru, Shivamogga, Udupi and Vijayapura. With the environmentally sensitive facilities, services and operations that the Fern hotels are so well known for, guests can now enjoy the beauty of the destination while enjoying a level of accommodations, F&;B and banqueting services as well.”

On the occasion of the rebranding of the hotel, Ashok Koti & Vinay Koti, Managing Partners, Vinayak Hotels mentioned “Our hotel has been catering to all travelers coming to Hubballi. We have now relaunched the hotel with The Fern Hotels & Resorts coming on board to manage the hotel, offering their personalized services and operational standards to our guests. Our hotel rooms and F&B offerings are already well appreciated locally and with this rebranding we now aim to provide memorable stay experiences to more guests.”

The Fern Residency, Hubballi is conveniently located 5 km from Hubballi Airport and 2 km from Hubballi Railway Station. With 52 tasteful rooms and suites, a multicuisine restaurant, poolside bar and conferencing and banquet options, the hotel is ideal for both corporate and leisure stays.In-room amenities include complimentary packaged drinking water, tea/coffee maker, satellite TV connections, digital in-room safe, bedroom slippers, daily newspaper service on request, eco-friendly lighting arrangements and eco-friendly bathroom amenities.

Dining options include Moroccan, the Mediterranean décor multicuisine restaurant and Margarita, the poolside bar.

Appointment | Vinay Chandavarkar is the new Chief Development Officer of SaffronStays

This new addition to the SaffronStays team is an important step towards expanding their horizon, and marrying real estate with hospitality

SaffronStays has appointed Vinay Chandavarkar as its Chief Development Officer. Born and raised in Mumbai, Vinay completed his post-graduation from ESSEC Business School, Paris where he majored in Hospitality Real Estate, and Development.

With 16+ years of experience in the hospitality segment, Vinay was earlier associated with The Indian Hotels Company Limited (Taj Group of Hotels) as Corporate Director - Development and Hilton Hotels as Director, Development - India. His primary role at both these organizations was to expand the brand’s portfolios, a responsibility that he shall continue with at SaffronStays - securing and sealing well-appointed luxurious homes and villas.

Speaking about joining the team, Vinay says, “I’m tremendously excited to join SaffronStays and be part of its incredible team. In light of the pandemic, the demand for branded premium vacation homes continues to be on the rise and represents a high potential niche hospitality segment in the future. I am proud to be a part of SaffronStays, which is at the forefront of this relevant change in our industry, and I look forward to playing my part in growing this underserved segment in our country. Through a combination of cutting-edge technology and a genuine, warm hospitality experience, we look forward to creating exceptional value for our stakeholders in the community and the tourism industry at large.” 

This new addition to the SaffronStays team is an important step towards expanding their horizon, and marrying real estate with hospitality. Speaking about the same, Devendra Parulekar, Founder, SaffronStays, says, “SaffronStays has always set the pace, and the agenda of the premium vacation rentals market in India.  As established hotel majors enter the space, and help deepen and mature the market, we further set the direction by hiring a Chief Development Officer. Vinay and his team will lead conversations with realtors who would like to design, build and invest in villas in premium gated communities to partner with top luxury vacation rental operators like us to act as their channel partners, and also manage and monetise these assets for potential buyers, investors or themselves.”

Eclat Insights | The Netflix 'Play Something' Feature & What You Should Now Start Offering Your Guests

There is enough research to show that more choice, does not mean more happiness. Psychologists David Myers and Robert Lane, conclude that the current abundance of choice often leads to depression and feelings of loneliness.

That is why Netflix created 'Play Something'

When you hit the ‘Play Something’ button, you’ll be instantly met with a series or film we know you’ll love based on what you’ve watched before. Or with one more click you can ‘Play Something Else’ and get:

• A brand new series or film,

• A series or film you’re already watching,

• A series or film on your list, or

• An unfinished series or film you may want to revisit.

WHY IS IT RELEVANT TO THE HOSPITALITY & SERVICE INDUSTRIES

We love to shower our guests with choices. The more the better. From pillow menus to tea menus, sleep menus, spa menus to the already every expanding buffet and In-Room Dining menus, guests now have an array of choices. The list is endless and the choices are increasing every day.

As we mentioned in the insight - 'The last best experience that your guest has anywhere becomes the minimum expectation for the experiences they want with you', your guests hope to get what they have experienced and liked anywhere.

Do you have an 'Awesome Anything' process in place?

ACTIONABLE INSIGHTS

• 'Awesome Anything' is the one thing you are absolutely certain that your guest will like when they say "bring me anything".

• It is a list of things that are presented to the guest, in order, if they do not like the first thing suggested.

• All suggestions are one at a time. Multiple suggestions are not offered in one go.

REAL-WORLD EXAMPLE

• Imagine a simple interaction in a restaurant. Let's assume the server knows the guest name and remembers to use it. #[[connected topics]] "Good Evening Ms Bose, welcome to Friday's. What can I get you today?" she says. "Anything" replies Ms Bose. "Coming right up"

• The server brings the guest a dish, a drink and a little something sweet. It is perfect.

Want to make this WOW?

• Remember your guest preferences and history. You can use old-school index cards or the latest CRM & AI, but do it. Surprise them with something they knew they craved but were not able to ask for, something from their childhood, or mum's kitchen.

• We know this is an ideal version, but let it be a starting point for your conversation on this. Instead of bringing the dish right away, you could do an elevator pitch for the dish.

Prabhjot

Bedi

is an Hospitality Ideator. A process innovator, trainer, and professional speaker, he has worked with the Taj Group of Hotels, conducted training programs for hospitality leaders, launched a National Council Accredited Hospitality Institute as Principal, successfully launched and sold three hospitality businesses. He now assists hospitality leaders and educators in creating superlative services and products. He also edits the very popular www.hospemag.com - the largest hospitality career e-mag

Appointment | ibis Mumbai Vikhroli announces the appointment of its leadership team

National, October 22, 2021: ibis - a smart economy brand from the Accor stable, today announced the appointment of its leadership team for ibis Mumbai Vikhroli comprising of industry experts - Mr Deepak Bajpai, Ms Pooja Narkar, Ms Ishita Ganguly, Ms Khushbu Sneha, Mr M.Jaganathan, Ms Pavithra Rodrigues, Mr Gaurav Pant, Ms Priyanka Pandey, Mr Jayendra Anasooru, and Mr Suresh Gone, each bringing on years of hospitality experience across best industry practices. With an aim to provide the best customer experience, food & beverage, and drive sales for ibis Mumbai Vikhroli, the appointment of these leaders will help ibis establish a stronger impetus for the brand’s 20th ibis property in India.

Speaking on the appointments of the new leadership, Mr. Anant Leekha, General Manager, ibis Mumbai Vikhroli and ibis Navi Mumbai, said, “At ibis, we believe in building a strong and dynamic leadership that delivers upon the values we are recognized for. The team brings their profound knowledge and understanding of the market dynamics that will help set new standards for this upcoming property. As we begin to set our foot in the post-COVID business arena, I am certain that onboarding these extensively skilled industry professionals will successfully build the hotel’s operations, and services to satisfy every guest. I would like to extend a warm welcome to everyone, and look forward to working with them on the exhilarating journey ”

Make it stand out

Mr Deepak Bajpai has joined ibis Mumbai Vikhroli as Security Manager. He has had a career spanning over two decades & has been associated with prominent brands including Hyatt, Wyndham Group, Intercontinental, Sahara Hospitality, Apeejay Group-The Park before joining Accor.

Pooja Narkar has joined as Talent & Culture Manager and will be managing ibis Mumbai Vikhroli, Navi Mumbai and Airport. She has 11 years of experience in Talent & Culture in Accor and is currently handling the ibis Mumbai cluster role.

Ishita Ganguly has joined as the Director of Sales at ibis Mumbai Vikhroli. She will be responsible for positioning the 20th ibis in India and managing ibis Navi Mumbai in the same capacity.  Her career spans over nine years, specializing in the Sales & Revenue functions of the hotel.

Khushbu Sneha has joined as Guest Service Manager piloting the intriguing role "Guest Service" at ibis Mumbai Vikhroli. In this role, she will be managing all the guest areas from the Front Office to Food & Beverage service. She has rich experience in Learning and Development and started her career with operations with prominent brands such as ITC & Marriott.

M. Jaganathan has joined the ibis Mumbai Vikhroli team as a Chief engineer. He started as an onsite project engineer in Qatar for five years and then spent six years of employment chronology with Accor. He began as a team lead, was promoted as assistant manager and is currently working as a Chief Engineer.

Pavithra Rodrigues has joined the team as a Financial Controller and will be handling the role along with her current responsibilities at ibis Navi Mumbai. She is a Chartered Accountant by profession and comes with over seven years of experience in the hospitality industry world. She has worked with the Marriott group of hotels before joining the Accor group.

Gaurav Pant has joined as an Executive Housekeeper. He comes with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry. Before joining the Accor Group of Hotels, he has worked with prominent brands such as Ista hotels, Dusit Hotels, and Lemon Tree Hotels.

Priyanka Pandey joined the team as a Learning & Development Manager of ibis Hotels in Mumbai. She comes with more than 12 years of experience in operations. Prior to this, she has worked in operational roles in different brands of Accor, including Novotel, Mercure, ibis.

Jayendra Anasooru has joined the team as an Executive Chef and brings seven years of experience with him. He has worked with prominent brands such as Hyatt, Hilton, Accor, and has set up his restaurant as well. His last assignment was with ibis Chennai SIPCOT.

Suresh Gone has joined us at ibis Mumbai Vikhroli as an IT Manager. He will be taking up this role along with his current responsibilities at ibis Navi Mumbai. He brings two decades of IT experience & has worked with prominent brands such as Royal Orchid & Accor.

NEWS | Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre partners with Hyderabad Round Table for providing classroom infrastructure for the Zilla Parishad School

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre partners with Hyderabad Round Table for providing classroom infrastructure for the Zilla Parishad School

Hyderabad September 22nd, 2021: Cyberabad Convention Centre Private Limited (Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre) in collaboration with Round Table India Freedom through Education School Block sets up a classroom (structure) in Zilla Parishad High School Narsingi. The program's major objective was to promote girls' education in our society. This school building was inaugurated by Mr. S. Madhusudhana Rao, CFO of Emaar Properties, and guests of honor included Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager - Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre, Mr. Siva Kumar Perla, partner, IIFL Wealth, Mr. Kapil Kumar and Mr. Sumeet Kadia, and others.

Hyderabad Titans Round Table 303 and Hyderabad Youth Round Table 304 collaborated on the idea. The school has a total enrolment of 570 students, with 270 males and 300 females, and also 25 teachers. The school now educates students in grades 6 to 10. ‘The 7th Class Room project is aimed at ensuring access to basic resources such as school supplies, and proper classroom infrastructure for female children, affecting learning results and education quality, and encouraging them to pursue higher education.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager - Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre said, “At Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, we take up initiatives to improve the communities where we operate. We are humbled and proud to be a part of the project, aimed at empowering the girl child with the education, by providing proper classroom infrastructure at the Zilla Parishad High School, Narsingi.

Inspirational | Chef Rohan Wadke

Celebrations | Four Point by Sheraton Dehradun celebrated International Houskeeping week

New Menu | Executive Chef Jerson Fernandes and his culinary team curate new menu for their all day dining and in room dining at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach

From L- R Chef JP, Chef Jerson, Chef Nikunj,and Chef Rajesh.P

Food experiences provide a sense of camaraderie and open the mind to adventure. With Accor’s brand commitment to health, environment, and food, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach (NMJB) remains uncompromised in being sustainably scrumptious and delivering high-quality meals in the recently new curated menus at the all-day dining: The Square and In-Room Dining(IRD) services.

Executive chef Jerson Fernandes's culinary career world spans over 14 years, and it is these curated meals that are served as unforgettable combinations. Having always focussed on local and seasonal, our conscious kitchen and dining spaces are extending into your lifestyles, centered purely on the recovery of traditions and the authenticity of gastronomic offerings. The diners are assured of a gourmand experience of premium ingredients and artisanal techniques says Shreyas Bhagat, The food and Beverage Manager at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach.

Diners can choose to “travel locally” and appreciate greater taste flavors comfortably. The menu extraordinaire is a balance of health, wellness, and nutrition: root vegetable sandwich, nutty quinoa citrus salad, and gastronomic regionals such as the highway murgh tikka, double butter chicken, or the desi aloo tikka sizzler, not to forget the inclusion of the signature Vegan breakfast for our Vegan guests. The seasonal gourmet, the contemporary comforts, or the rustic Indian are each developed with sophistication for a deeper purpose – of environmentally-conscious practices. The city of Mumbai is the paradise of food lovers, and NMJB is known for its expansive range of local cuisines, customizing even street food classics: Juhu Bombay chutney sandwich, Bombay Pav bhaji, Keema Pav, and the Vada Pav by elevating ingredients to retain flavors, textures and freshness. The recipes of the innovative desserts such as the chef’s special dome delight, and the freshness of Tandoori chicken, Nasi Goreng, Malaysian Laksa, and Railway Mutton curry are magically developed to suit diverse palates and satiate taste buds of varying cultures, meal preferences, and first-time experimenters. So, take your tastebuds on a culinary itinerary and explore the richness of street-styled dishes as daily favorites specially curated by the culinary magicians of NMJB.

Be surprised and tantalized with featured dishes ranging from the influences of the coast, of the farm, and a philosophy embraced by a team who celebrates sustainable gastronomy and culinary traditions with due respect to nature in compliance with Accor’s Planet 21 initiative.

First look at some of the dishes

Lamb Shank

Gnocchi with braised asparagus

Crunchy Chocolate mousse cake

Appointment | Gopinath John Surendranath joins Novotel Chennai SIPCOT as Operations Manager

John will lead operations at Novotel Chennai SIPCOT and work towards strengthening its leadership

Gopinath John Surendranath has been appointed as the Operations Manager at Novotel Chennai SIPCOT.

A seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, John comes with over 18 years of experience across India and abroad. He has been with Accor for over ten years and has grown up the ranks, starting as a Duty Manager at Novotel Ibis ORR Bengaluru.

John will lead operations at Novotel Chennai SIPCOT and work towards strengthening its leadership positioning within the highly competitive bi-leisure market in Chennai.

John comes with vast experience in managing operations of multiple magnitudes. In his last assignment, he was heading the Rooms Division Operations for the Novotel Hyderabad Convention Center. He began his journey in the hospitality industry with Ansagna Oasis Resort in Bengaluru in 2005.

Commenting on John’s appointment Rohan Sable, General Manager Delegate said, “It gives me immense pleasure to congratulate John for his appointment as the Operations Manager at Novotel SIPCOT. I am sure that with his extensive experience in hospitality, he will lead the team to create memorable and long-lasting experiences for our guests.”

Appointment | Radhika Mathur appointed as Marketing Communications Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai

In this role, she will engage to improve the brand visibility of the hotel, and its F&B offerings.

Four Seasons Mumbai has appointed Radhika Mathur as Marketing Communications Manager. In this role, she will engage to improve the brand visibility of the hotel and its F&B offerings.

Prior to this, she handled the marketing activities of Fairmont Jaipur for two years, including during the tumultuous phase of the pandemic. Additionally, she has more than three years of experience with Templatolio – a boutique marketing consultancy for hotels, playing an active role in marketing and brand activations of several corporate accounts and hotel launches.

A recent alumna of Les Roches Switzerland’s MBA in Global Hospitality Management, Mathur brings with her a sophisticated understanding of the target audience for luxury hotels in India, and their expectations from international brands.

Being a true food and beverage enthusiast, who loves exploring new locations and cultures, she made the most of her year in Europe by exploring the continent to the fullest.

With her love for music and movies, she finds her new home in the City of Bollywood most delightful.

Innovation | Food Bus India- A double decker moving vehicle opens doors to diners

The Food bus India will be serving street food from the world curated by founders

Surjit Singh one of the Co-Founders of popular cafes and clubs lords of the Drinks, Warehouse Cafe, Open House Cafe & IMLY with his partner Sukhraj Singh have come up with a double decker bus dining destination named  Food Bus India- A moving vehicle to dine in for food lovers across NCR and Indian subcontinent.

“To bring this new age double decker dining in the Indian market it took all about 12 months of planning and 12 months of execution. It started during my studies in UK when my father convinced me of the idea of adapting and opening a QSR,which is the need of an hour and this is where adding famous street food across the Europe and Asia, from the capital of the world to capital of India. We are all set to bring dining over go first time in India” says Sukhraj Singh-Co-founder of Food Bus India.

Understanding the burgeoning demand and changing consumers' living styles and preferences towards a new lifestyle, this double-decker bus dining will provide diners a unique ambience to dine in a food truck and enjoy their meal.

The Food bus India will be serving street food from the world curated by founders and hospitality  personalities Surjit Singh and Sukhraj Singh. Guests will be provided with options of having  lunch, hi-tea, dinner, and breakfast making every food served with an innovative and unique presentation.

The key element and surprise package for every pizza lover is that the bus is going to provide them with a handmade pizza topped with freshly ground spices and veggies.

“This young generation is all crazy and fascinated about new ways of living and enjoying their life, but what still keep their local roots alive is the taste of their food, food is what still makes them happy and enjoy their moment, we at food bus wants each our customer to not just enjoy the moment but even live the little moment they will spend with us, so to let them enjoy we here have to make sure the food they are served with touches their heart and they remember and cherish it’’ says Mr. Sukraj Singh -Co-Founder, Food Bus India

The place will even have a new age QSR format, where the family and friends coming won't be waiting for long and long hours to get their first meal or snack. It will have a new way of giving food or starters which will be served quickly and smartly without killing customers time and moment.

“COVID 19 has highly changed the view pattern of customers, each one of us believes to be safe and hygiene wherever we are going, keeping all your safety our priority we at Food Bus India, with bus dining, brings separate booths for you and your family to enjoy fully with complete space and safety, Our utmost priority is making your experience the best with the change.We have been in this market and industry for long run,we know you believe and hopes the faith and trust goes the same with our new venture too,” says Mr. Surjit Singh-Co-Founder Food Bus  India.

Visit Maldives | Maldivian to commence direct flights connecting New Delhi with Maafaru & Male from Oct 21

Flights on the Delhi to Maafaru route will operate on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The direct flight will offer the fastest connection for Indian travelers looking to holiday in North Maldives luxury resorts.

Maldivian, the national carrier of the Republic of Maldives, will commence direct flights from New Delhi to Maafaru and Male from October 21, 2021. Flights on the new route, New Delhi to Maafaru, will operate on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The airline will be operating A321 and A320 aircraft on this route offering both business and economy class configuration.

Maafaru International Airport located in Noonu atoll was opened in 2019 and is also managed by Island Aviation Services Limited (IAS). With three direct weekly flights to Maafaru, another international hub of the largest source market will connect North Maldives to India.

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