NEWS | Fortune Hotels lands in Hubballi with an airport hotel

Fortune Park Hotels Limited, the wholly-owned subsidiary of ITC Ltd, now has six hotels with 671 rooms across four cities in Karnataka.

Fortune Hotels, a member of ITC’s hotel group, announced the opening of its first hotel in the historic town of Hubballi, Karnataka making it their sixth hotel alliance in the State.

Marking the celebrations, Samir MC, Managing Director, Fortune Park Hotels Limited, said, “We are delighted to bring the Fortune Park brand to the progressive and culturally rich city of Hubballi. Located close to the airport, we are confident that the hotel will see great success as it offers a branded alternative and best-in-class guest experience to city residents as well as our existing customers traveling to the twin cities of Hubli-Dharwad, for both business and leisure.”

Joining him for the launch of Fortune Park Airport Road Hubballi was Dhananjay Saliankar, Head – Sales & Marketing and Govindappa B. Dandagi, the proprietor of the hotel. With this inauguration, Fortune Hotels now has an operating portfolio of 39 hotels across 34 cities of India.

An iconic city landmark, Fortune Park Airport Road Hubballi is strategically located opposite the Hubballi airport, offering easy access to corporate establishments, key shopping areas and other important monuments of the city.

The newly launched property can host corporate events, weddings and social gatherings the stellar hotel has 4800 sq. ft. of versatile banquet spaces along with around 15,000 sq. ft. of lush green party lawns to add to the charm. Its modern banquet halls come with a spacious pre-function area, dedicated entry, and ample parking. The hotel also features two well-equipped board rooms ideal for corporate meetings, presentations, brainstorming sessions, and discussions.

Well connected by rail, road and air, the hotel is 428 km away from Bangalore and 20 km from Dharwad. It also offers easy access to Belgaum (98 kms), Hampi (150 kms), and Goa (155 kms).

With this addition, Fortune Park Hotels Limited, the wholly-owned subsidiary of ITC Ltd, now has 6 hotels with 671 rooms across 4 cities in Karnataka.

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Appointmnets | Fern Hotels announces new appointments

The hospitality chain appoints new general managers and operation managers across properties.

Amit Mishra joins as the general manager at The Fern Denzong Hotel & Spa, Gangtok. Mishra brings over 15 years of hotel experience as a general manager to a 70 room relaunched hotel, The Fern Denzong Hotel & Spa, Gangtok. He has previously worked with The Orchid Hotel-Pune, Sterling Resorts Valley View-Kodaikanal, etc. His last employment was with Mahindra Holidays &Resorts India Ltd at Baiguney (Sikkim).

Saurabh Choksi joins as General Manager at The Fern Leo Resort & Club, Junagadh. He has over 25 years in the hospitality industry and has worked with brands like Regent Seven Seas, Silversea Cruises, and DoubleTree by Hilton, Radisson Blue, and many more.

He last worked as Operations Head for Food & Beverages in Aamby Valley City.

Ajay Singh has joined as the Operations Manager in The Fern Kesarval Hotel and Spa, Verna Plateau- Goa. He is an alumnus of ‘IHM Mumbai-2002’ and is an MBA with dual specialization in HR and Sales & Marketing. He is also a certified SAP consultant (Sales and Distribution) from DUCAT Academy, Noida. Singh has a total of 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry with brands like Taj, Carlson, HHI, Fidalgo, and many more.

Video Lessons | Essential Skills For Food and Beverage Personnel | Wheat Beer Review By Dr. Hemant Kumar Singh

Brief About the Vlogger

Dr. Hemant Kumar Singh is an accomplished Trainer and administrator with over 21 years’

of experience in the field of Hospitality. His research work has published in various national & international journals. During his 20 year-long career, he has organized and attended a number of national & international conferences, seminars, workshops, FDPs, MDPs. He is a trained Online Educator certified by American Hospitality Academy.

Hilton News | Sustainable Travel Bucket List: 10 of the Best Eco-conscious Hiltons Around the World #6 Hilton London Bankside

Located in the heart of London’s lively Bankside district, Hilton London Bankside is passionate about supporting its local community. The hotel features a rooftop meadow, built to reintegrate greenery into the surrounding landscape, and home to several beehives, installed to help to re-energize the city’s diminishing bee population. The honey is served as part of its breakfast offering, alongside dishes made using locally sourced ingredients. Conscious of the growing demand for plant-based living, the hotel also boasts the world’s first completely vegan suite, providing a unique experience for ethically conscious travelers. For visitors looking to get out and explore the city, Hilton London Bankside encourages its guests to make use of the hotel’s ultra-sustainable volcanic bikes for free during their stay.

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Ingredient Ideology | 12 AFFIRMATIVE ANTI AGING FOODS Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef.

ARTICLE FOR HOSPEMAG: BY – DR. KAVIRAJ KHIALANI- CELEBRITY MASTER CHEF. 12 AFFIRMATIVE ANTI AGING FOODS

While aging is said to be a part of the life cycle and all of us slowly and gradually move towards that stage however it has also been related to the kind of food we eat and the lifestyle we live as well. In the broader sense aging has also been spoken about as when the single cells in a living organism have ceased to be dividing and being a natural process each one of us must undergo this phase at their own time and pace. 

As we all are aware of the three types of aging namely biological, psychological and social. There are also various signs of aging as well which are linked to our skin, pores, wrinkles, and fine lines, puffy eyes, etc. there are a few suggested remedies to delay these from occurring among us to an extent by taking proper care of our diets, nutrition, physical activity, etc.

Here are the top 12 Affirmative Anti- Aging Foods which we all should include in our system much before in order to reap their benefits!

1] AVOCADOS: These are power-packed with a whole lot of nutrients that add a lot of glow and shine into our skin and also add value to our meals from a king-size breakfast to a healthy avocado smoothie or simply a tossed salad! An avocado hummus, a salsa, and a sauce to go with your favorite grills is a great choice to add it in.

2. BERRIES: these are also in the category of superfoods where their essential and vital contribution is of great value into our foods from a morning bowl of cereals to a porridge, a couple of them into our shakes and a few of them with our desserts as well make a whole lot of difference looking at its positive support. Include berries to go with your whole meal pancakes, and also a part of your salad jar concepts and in dressings as well.

3. BROCCOLI: This is one of the vibrant and attractive veggies we have sister concern to cauliflower but yes much more giving in terms of quality and nutrition also. It is very popular with stir fry dishes, a nice broccoli almond soup can be enjoyed chilled and warm too, must have a couple of these in a week on our plates. Include this veggie in a blanched format, do not overcook it or discolor it while cooking.

4. COCONUTS: this one is a wonder fruit and it has so much to offer from the water to the flesh to the oil and more. Tender coconut flesh/malai is so very yum and the water is just the right one to add to our intake. Fresh coconut milk extract being used in our curries and gravies also means a lot when it comes to imparting goodness.

5. LEMONGRASS: most commonly used in making our cuppa chai used very often by most of us, the refreshing flavor and aroma are so very relaxing and de-stressing. Lemongrass is also used in our cooking for instance using it in our soups, curries, gravies, and dishes with rice and noodles as well. Must include it in our recipes and daily diets, flavor it in your drinking water as well with a little mint.

6] NUTS: essential oils, nutritionally balanced full of good qualities to offer us and help us look better and feel better. For instance, a lot of us consume almonds soaked in water overnight as one of the first things going into our body in the mornings, similarly, walnuts are considered great for brain health. Must include a variety of them from cashews, to raisins, pine nuts, pecan nuts, hazelnuts & pistachios. For example, peanut butter is a very enriched ingredient for using it in our recipes.

7] PINEAPPLE: one of the best tropical fruit we have on our side, full of essentials like vitamin C, good for the eyes, reduces inflammations, helps to fight skin damage as well. Besides pineapple is also good for blood circulation and is a great immunity booster ingredient. Include it in form of fresh-cut in salads, in our cooking, and baking/ grilling as well as it adapts itself very well.

8] POMEGRANATE: These red peals are filled with the richness of the correct proportion of nutrition including helping us control blood sugar levels, helps prevent anemia, good for our teeth, skin, and hair, helps prevent premature aging. It is good to consume as a fresh juice, add them to your fresh fruit salads, add them to your health shakes and smoothies as well.

9] SPINACH: It helps to alkalize our body, helps fight acne and wrinkles, high in iron content, contains a good number of vitamin b like B-6, B-1, Riboflavin, Folate, etc. spinach is also rich in omega- 3 and it is said that drink your greens, combine spinach into your power-packed shakers and blend them with nuts, seeds, berries and enjoy them. Cooking with spinach is also common as a part of our Indian cuisine and it can be easily incorporated into our meals.

10] SWEET POTATO: It is rich in Vitamin-D content, a generous amount of magnesium, it minimizes sugar absorption in our body, improves digestion. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamin b6 and a great source of ascorbic acid. Have sweet potatoes in all your regular potato recipes, substitute them, and effectively use them in a number of ways from your roasted or baked potato munchies to a nice sweet potato chaat, to interesting subzi and stuffing for your parathas too!

11] TOMATOES: They are a great source of essential nutrients and vitamins, good for the hair, skin, and eyes. They are considered anti-inflammatory, helps purify the blood, helps lower cholesterol, helps improve bone health, and reduces migraine issues as well. Tomato juice, adding them to our salad plate, into our subzis, curries, gravies, etc. tomatoes also help detoxify our body and is a great anti-oxidant as well.

12] WATERMELON: The best part being high in water content around 90 %. Helps cleanse our kidneys, strengthens the bones, it is known as one of the highest alkalizing fruit, it is heart-healthy, hydrates our skin. Watermelon helps maintain body temperature, relaxes muscles, low in calories, and good to detox our body by eating it and including it in our diets regularly. 

On A Concluding Note:

These are just a few of the many such positive foods we have around us which are truly gems and giving in nature the only thing to understand is how to accept and how to inculcate the thought of incorporating them into our lifestyle in order to make the most of them and affirm us with an energy which can help us keep aging a little away from taking over us.

Brief About The Writer:

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

Event | Relish and Celebrate Ramadan at Novotel Hyderabad Airport

19th April ‘2021, Hyderabad: To celebrate the spirit of Holy Ramadan and provide convenience to the fasting guests Novotel Hyderabad Airport has introduced a special Sehri and Iftar menu. Chef Varun M B, Executive Chef, Novotel Hyderabad Airport has curated the sumptuous menu which will offer the guests a fulfilling meal to start and break their fast. The dishes are prepared using authentic ingredients and give a homely feel to the guests. 

 Novotel Hyderabad Airport will also provide amenities like prayer mats, the hotel’s in-house essence, and aroma to assist in prayer. The specially crafted menu for Sehari and Iftar can either be ordered in room or the guests can enjoy it in the restaurant. The special sehari menu comprises of traditional food options like Chicken biryani, Mutton curry, Dry fruits, Special drinks, Malabar paratha, Veg gravy, Raita, Specially made Dal & many more. The Iftari menu comprises of Cut fruits, Fresh juice, Flavoured water, variety of dry fruits & many more to savour from. 

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rubin Cherian, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Airport said, “Keeping up with the spirit of Ramadan and offer convenience to our guests we are offering a special Sehri and Iftar menu which will allow our fasting guests to savour and enjoy variety of Ramzan specialities . Our Executive Chef Varun and his team have created a home like feel using traditional spices and ingredients . All the guests can  savour the sweet blend of  traditional dishes  during the holy month.”

About Novotel-

Novotel Hotels, Suites & Resorts offers destination hotels designed as comforting and energizing places where guests can ‘press pause’ and take time to enjoy the moments that really matter. The brand’s wide array of hotels, suites and resorts offer a multitude of services for business and leisure guests alike, including spacious, modular rooms with natural and intuitive design; 24/7 catering with nutritious choices; dedicated meeting spaces; attentive and proactive staff; family zones for the youngest guests; multi-purpose lobbies and accessible fitness centers. Novotel, which has over 530 locations in more than 60 countries, is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,000 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. For more information and reservations visit all.accor.com or become a fan and follow us on Twitter and Facebook. novotel.com | group.accor.com

Appointment | Shibu Thampan joins Four Points by Sheraton Kochi Infopark as new Executive Chef

Shibu Thampan joins Four Points by Sheraton Kochi Infopark as new Executive Chef

Four Points by Sheraton Kochi Infopark has appointed Shibu Thampan as their new Executive Chef. Thampan is an experienced chef with a great passion for culinary science and hospitality.

He is skilled in pre-opening and operations, client servicing, team management, menu development, profit and loss, food & beverage service management, and R&D- food production.

He is a strong operation & management professional with an Honors Diploma in Hospitality Management focused in Culinary skills.

Previously, he was associated with brands such as VARU BY Atmosphere as Executive Chef (Pre- Opening/ Post Operations) and Atmosphere Kanifushi as Executive Sous Chef.

NEWS | Marriott Bonvoy partners with Uber enabling members to earn points on both food delivery and rides

Available across the United States, Marriott Bonvoy members who link their Marriott Bonvoy and Uber accounts in the Uber app will automatically start earning points on all qualifying transactions.

Members of Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, can earn points toward free nights at the company’s extraordinary portfolio of hotels and premium and luxury home rentals when ordering food delivery on Uber Eats and requesting select Uber rides.

Available across the United States, Marriott Bonvoy members who link their Marriott Bonvoy and Uber accounts in the Uber app will automatically start earning points on all qualifying transactions. Members will be able to earn up to six points per dollar spent on Uber Eats delivery with a minimum $25 basket and three points per dollar spent on Uber XL, Comfort and Black rides. For a limited time, members who link their accounts and have at least one qualifying transaction by May 31 will earn an extra 2,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points.

“We are continuing to see our members return to travel and are excited to give them more opportunities to earn points toward free nights through Uber rides and Uber Eats,” said David Flueck, Senior Vice President Global Loyalty, Marriott International. “This tremendous relationship with Uber reflects our goal to engage members and enable them to earn and redeem points whether traveling or through everyday activities at home.”

Members can earn points in the following ways:

Six Marriott Bonvoy points per dollar spent on Uber Eats deliveries to hotels operating under Marriott brands in the United States with a minimum $25 basket, and two Marriott Bonvoy points per dollar spent on non-hotel deliveries and food pick-ups in the United States with a minimum $25 basket.
Three Marriott Bonvoy points per dollar spent on Uber XL, Comfort and Black rides across the United States.

“We are thrilled to team up with Marriott Bonvoy to help our shared customers turn their stay-at-home habits into their next dream vacation,” said Jennifer Vescio, Global Head of Business Development, Uber. “By quickly linking your Uber and Marriott Bonvoy accounts, you’re one step closer to your next trip when ordering from your favorite local spots on Uber Eats or hopping in a ride.”

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NEWS | Lords Hotels and Resorts upgrades its Safe Stay Initiative Karona Safe Rahona Safe

The new protocols includes enhanced cleaning and sanitisation of all touch points, training sessions on hygiene, sanitised and considerably reducing need for physical contact throughout the stay

Lords Hotels and Resorts, a mid-market hotel chain with presence in 40 cities, 11 states and 2 countries, has enhanced its safe stay initiative Karona Safe Rahona Safe after the second wave of COVID-19.

The new protocols includes enhanced cleaning and sanitisation of all touch points, training sessions on hygiene, sanitised and considerably reducing need for physical contact throughout the stay to mention a few. These protocols will be reviewed regularly and certified by experts. Other protocols such as social distancing, contactless check in, sanitisation, in room dinning, thermal screening of guest, allotting room to the guest after 48 hours of the previous check-out to mention a few were already in place earlier.

Commenting about the initiative Pushpendra Bansal – Chief Operating Officer – Lords Hotels and Resorts said “Our group aims to provide comfortable and safe experience. The second wave of COVID-19 in India appears to be ascending faster than the first wave. Safety of our guests, employees remains to be our prior concern and hence we enhanced the protocols of our safe stay initiative Karona Safe Rahona Safe”.

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Hilton News | Sustainable Travel Bucket List: 10 of the Best Eco-conscious Hiltons Around the World #5 Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel

The team at Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel is dedicated to providing guests with exceptional experiences that are both luxurious and sustainable. From high energy efficiency and excellent waste management, providing support for disadvantaged communities, the team’s holistic approach led to the hotel becoming the first in Rome to achieve the prestigious Green Key certification. To reduce food waste, the hotel partners with local nonprofit Equoevento to supply leftover bread to a local brewery, Birrificio Vale la Pena, which employs prisoners as part of a work-release program. The brewery uses the waste to create its own beer, which is then sold at the hotel. Elsewhere, engineers reduced water consumption by 20% over three years through a range of measures including optimizing the property’s irrigation schedule and swimming pool water consumption and redeveloping the property’s evaporative tower system.

Virtual tourism: also known as virtual reality tourism,Traditional marketing tool By Vivek Salhotra

Virtual tourism: 

Traditionally used predominantly as a marketing tool, virtual tourism, also known as virtual reality tourism, has become increasingly popular amongst tourism industry stakeholders in recent times.

In this article I will explain what is meant by the term virtual tourism, I will discuss how the virtual tourism industry has grown and developed in recent years and I will discuss the different types of virtual tourism currently in use. I will also outline the advantages and disadvantages of virtual tourism.

Virtual tourism is essentially a hybrid concept- it combines both the notions of virtual reality and tourism. In essence, virtual tourism facilitates a tourism experience, without actually having to travel anywhere.

Virtual tourism takes many different forms and comes in various degrees of technological capability.

In its simplest form, virtual tourism may comprise a video of a tourism destination. The ‘tourist’ watches the video, utilizing their hearing and sight senses.

More sophisticated forms of virtual tourism include being immersed in an environment through use of a headset or simulator. It may involve the use of various props, users may be required to wear gloves and there may be additional sensations such as movement (like in a rollercoaster simulator), feeling (for example if the user is sprayed with water), and smell.

Virtual tourism covers a broad spectrum of digitally mediated reality, which includes virtual reality, as well as mixed reality and augmented reality.

In fact, the growth of virtual activities expands far beyond the reach of the tourism industry. People are now buying houses without actually seeing them in person, having felt that a virtual tour was sufficient. People are visiting museums via virtual tours and teachers are using virtual realities to enhance the educational experience of their students.

Virtual reality has very much become ingrained in everyday life.

In the tourism industry, virtual reality (VR) has been most commonly used as a marketing tool. Destination Management Organisations (DMOs), tour operators, and tourist attractions have been using VR as a means of promoting for some time now; hoping that the VR experience will entice tourists and bring in new business.

We have also seen a growing popularity in the use of VR as additionality to physical tourism experiences. At a theme park, for example, there may be a mix of actual rides and virtual rides. Museums will also often enhance their exhibitions with virtual presentations and activities.

Vivek salhotra

Assistant Professor in Shree Hanumat Institute of Management and Technology. He started his career with Oberoi's Clarkes as a trainee which is the first property of Oberoi's since 1898, and his first job was with The Oberoi Cecil as a Front Office Assistant, in Shimla. He worked with Chili's Gurgaon, A Taxmax cuisine Restaurant, BRD College Roorkee Uttarakhand, Hotel Altius Chandigarh, and The fern residency Chandigarh, After a decade in the industry he moved to Academia in KC group Nawanshahr, Punjab as an Assistant Professor, the journey of Academia starts from here, worked with Chandigarh Group of colleges and now working with Shree Hanumat IMT.

Event | Ohri’sUppu organises Shad Ruchulu An ode to the flavours & festivities of Ugadi

Hyderabad April 2021, Ohri’sUppu – a curated South Indian cuisine restaurant in Banjara Hills announced a special food Shad Ruchulu, a celebration of 6 flavors of Ugadi. 

This food festival “Shad Ruchulu” is inspired from the six  flavours of Ugadi which are - Bitter (Neem Flower), Sour (New Tamarind), Tangy (Tender Mango), Spicy (New Chili), Sweet (New Jaggrey) & Salty. Chef VikramSimha Brand Chef at Ohri’s India and his team has curated a thali menu based on these 6 tastes and have introduced special packages for families to come and dine in together during the Ugadi festivities. 

As part of the thali menu guests can enjoy some traditional delicacies such as Kanapachili, purnamburelu, mamdekairassam, peruguwada, biringimamadekaiannnnam, bobatulu, chitna Chiguru mamsam, kodivepadu and many more. 

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Amar Ohri – Executive Director – Ohri’s India mentioned, “ We are delighted to present ‘ Shad Ruchulu’ a unique food festival that is taking us back to our roots and reminiscing the traditional food delicacies of Ugadi. On behalf of the entire team of Ohri’s India I would also take this opportunity to wish you a very happy and healthy Ugadi .” 

 “Shad Ruchulu” at Ohri’sUppu - includes two Family meals or Packages in veg and Non-Veg. There will be a common veg thali with all the tastes and special dishes of Telugus made for the occasion. All the meals are in the combination are for a family of Four or a Couple 

KutumbaBhojanam (Veg – Serves Four) 1499 KutumbaBhojanam (Non-Veg – Serves Four) 1799

JantaBhojanam (Veg – Serves two) 799JantaBhojanam (Non-Veg – Serves two) 899

Ohri’sUppu

Fortune Enclave, Sri Ram Nagar Colony, 

Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500034

Contact - +91 99891 56558

About Ohri’sUppu

Uppu, brings to you, intricately curated culinary masterpieces and takes you on a journey through South India as we give you a taste of history.

Uppu, the first South Indian speciality restaurant by Ohri’s group, The food menu consisting of most popular dishes from the kitchens of the five southern states -- Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. While the menu will leave you spoilt for choices, in the mains, the vegetarian appetiser selection lacks diversity. A sumptuous 'Veg Thali' is served during lunch hours from Monday to Saturday. In the main course, key dishes are the 'GummadikayaBellamPulusu', 'PeethalaIguru', 'Kori Gassi', and 'Alleppey Prawn Curry'. The curry you order should primarily be determined by the staples you choose. And, there is a lot to choose from - Pulaos and flavoured Rice, assorted Parotta, Appam, Idiyappam, Dosai, Puri, and more. Uppu means salt, and salt shows up in each of the cocktails, but not quite in the way you think. Uppu, recreates to striking effect the motifs of South Indian temples. The selectively lit dining hall is dressed in arresting black contrasted against bright red upholstery and shimmering brass cutlery.

Appointments | Courtyard by Marriott, Vadodara appoints Neil James as General Manager

Courtyard by Marriott, Vadodara - NOMA Hotels’ third managed property, owned and developed by NewCrestImage, USA has announced Neil James as General Manager. He assumed his new responsibilities effective March 1st, 2021.

In his new role, Neil will be responsible for overseeing the entire hotel operations. He has over 15 years of work experience; primarily with Marriott, IHG, and Starwood; and since 2018 with Auro Hotels (India) at Surat.

Starting as a hotel operations trainee, Neil worked his way through the rooms division hierarchy with stints at the Four Points Sheraton, Pune; Holiday Inn, Dubai; Le Meridien, Mahabaleshwar; and Le Meridien, Kochi, before joining Auro Hotels (India) at the Courtyard by Marriott, Surat as Rooms Division Manager. Based on his performance, he was later promoted as Director of Rooms at the Surat Marriott Hotel, where he played a vital role in the pre-opening activities; and, during the COVID-19 period.

Daxesh Patel, Owner and Chief Operating Officer for NewCastleImage, adroitly said, “Neil possesses the leadership skills, and the balanced approach required to operate and manage the Courtyard Vadodara Hotel.”

D.J. Rama, President & CEO, Auro Hotels, commented that “We are proud to see Neil growing and taking this leadership role. Growing our people is very satisfying company culture.”

Suresh Mathur, Chief Operating Officer, NOMA Hotels says that “Neil has been with our company for over three years. During this time Neil has shown values of sincerity, humility and aspiration. With his high energy, agility, leadership proficiency, caring for associates and guests, and, result-oriented approach, Neil’s performance has always exceeded expectations. As recognition of his efforts, Marriott International rewarded him with the 2018 “Stephen G. Marriott Culture Award”. Neil is an asset.”

Jane Brophy, Vice President, Full Service Operations & Shared Services at Auro Hotels said, “Neil is an exceptional leader with a proven track record who works tirelessly to elevate guests, associates, and owners' experiences by developing strong teams with a passion for the industry.”

In addition, Neil championed his team at Courtyard Surat win the coveted “Platinum Circle Award and the “Leadership Excellence Award” in 2018, and in 2019, the “Diamond Circle Award” and the “Stellar Guest Voice Performance Award in 2019.

Neil hails from the culturally rich city of Pune and is a true travel enthusiast and explorer who takes a deep interest in exploring newer locations that are historically and culturally rich and vibrant.

Trends | Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru teams up with 3 Home Chefs for their new program - Native Kitchens

These Home Chefs will showcase their culinary craft at Sunday Superlunch, the hotel’s glorious stage for culinary and beverage showmanship for brunch, each Sunday

Local artisans and craftspeople have always been co-creators for Four Seasons chefs and bartenders. The close collaboration with the local community is a quest to bring something unique for patrons and diners of Four Seasons, while also celebrating the heritage of certain dishes.

Inspired by the recent trend of ‘go local’, the chefs at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru have teamed with 3 Home Chefs in the city to craft a compelling program called Native Kitchens. These Home Chefs will showcase their culinary craft at Sunday Superlunch, the hotel’s glorious stage for culinary and beverage showmanship for brunch, each Sunday.

In April, Chef Rhea Aaron will showcase delicious culinary specials from Goa, redolent with memories from her favourite uncle’s home in Mapusa, Goa.

Spurred by a steadfast desire to showcase Goan culinary delights to the world, Rhea Aaron ditched the professional shackles of a branded kitchen to give full creative freedom to her craft. Having worked for a few years in the hotel industry with an international brand, Rhea says she’s happiest when she is able to whip up some adored childhood recipes for her guests.

The hero dishes she will showcase during brunch at Four Seasons are Chicken Bafat with a blend of fragrant spices and served with coconut rice and Prawn Balchao, a fiery, tastebud tingling dish with pickled curry sauce that is adored due to it Goan origins. Bebinca is a rich, layered cake from Goa, a veritable Indo-Portuguese lovechild. Rhea Aaron’s de-constructed Bebinca is something to look forward to.

In May, Chef Neetu Jalali, a proud Kashmiri, couturier and home chef, will whip up aromatic specialities from Kashmir.

Neetu Jalali is a home chef based in Bangalore and is one of the most passionate advocates of her native Kashmir, where she spent her beloved childhood years before moving to London thereafter. The force behind The Supper Club by Zafran in Bengaluru, Neetu is a veritable source of numerous products from Kashmir, the most adored of which are homemade plum and apricot ice teas and traditional kehwa. Neetu’s fragrant biryani is true blue Kashmiri …redolent with the sweetly scented aroma of nostalgia and longing.

In June, guests of Four Seasons can try some delightful dishes from the North East, specifically Nagaland, showcased by Chef Lichibeni Kikon

Home chef Lichibeni Kikon had a burning desire to bring her home flavours from Nagaland to Bangalore. Several years back, she started by hosting small groups at home for meals, pulling out lavish spreads of Naga fare spanning 8 to 9 courses. ‘Just like we do at home’ says she, on her style of warm, home-style hospitality. Naga cuisine is shrouded in mystery, though this is slowly being unpacked by intrepid gourmands and curious foodies. Their smoked meats, sun-dried leaves, bamboo shoots and the wicked ghost chilli pepper (bhut jolokia) is gaining popularity across tables and supper clubs with guests wanting more.

Some of the dishes Lichibeni is known for are Roast Pork in Sundried Bamboo Shoot, Beef with Black Sesame and Chicken With Fresh Bamboo Shoot.

"Diners at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru’s Sunday Superlunch are in for a treat for the next few months as we unfurl our Native Kitchens program. Home chefs from the various parts of India are ready to cook up storms and this will be a brilliant coming together of the community, to savour and showcase the rich gems of regional cuisine," said a spokesperson from Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru.

Date: Sunday, 11th and 25th April 2021(Goan), 16th May & 30th May(Kashmiri), June (Naga)

Time: 12:30 pm onwards

Venue: CUR8

Prices: INR 2,950 all inclusive (Non-Alcoholic Package)
       INR 4,900 all inclusive (Alcoholic Package)

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NEWS | ITC Kakatiya and ITC Kohenur unveil a host of staycation packages

Staycations are a big draw with people who are exhausted with the long stay-at-home situation. For individuals stressed with work-from-home scenario and are yearning for change in environs which are completely safe, comfortable, responsible and rejuvenating, without them having to exert themselves, unlike the scene at home for months on end.

Taking into consideration the growing need for short getaway breaks and the pent up demand for celebrating special ocassions, ITC Hotels in Hyderabad, i,e. ITC Kakatiya and ITC Kohenur are now offering an array of indigenous staycation experiences.

Perfect for anniversary celebrations, honeymoon packages and birthday surprises, the curated packages offer intuitive services and hospitality with contact light dining, digital check in and check out, QR code enabled menus, hotel service directory and many more mindful initiatives to make guests feel comfortable and safe.

The ‘All-In Getaway’ package at ITC Kakatiya and ITC Kohenur offer a minimum stay of one night with Airport Pickup, Accommodation for 2 adults, Breakfast for 2 adults, Pre-set meals (lunch & dinner) amongst other enticing features.

The ‘City Escapes’ package at ITC Kakatiya and ITC Kohenur include accommodation, buffet breakfast, savings on Food & Beverage, Spa and Laundry.

"These staycation packages promise to elevate the mood of our guests in exquisite ambiances, in the lap of responsible luxury, while they indulge in delectable cuisine. ITC Hotels in Hyderabad combine grandeur with intimacy and operates according to the highest principles of environmental stewardship. With ‘Responsible Luxury’ as its guiding premise, ITC Kakatiya and ITC Kohenur look forward to welcoming guests with a steadfast commitment to their well-being bolstered by heightened standards of hygiene protocols," a spokesperson from ITC Hotels said.

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Appointment | Nishanth Vishwanath joins The Ritz-Carlton, Pune as General Manager

Vishwanath will lead the dynamic luxury team to sustain the hotel’s positioning as one of the most preferred destinations for the social and business elite in the country.

The Ritz-Carlton, Pune has appointed Nishanth Vishwanath to lead the luxurious downtown hotel as General Manager.

At The Ritz-Carlton, Pune, Vishwanath will lead the dynamic luxury team to sustain the hotel’s positioning as one of the most preferred destinations for the social and business elite in the country.

A veteran hotelier, driven by passion and creativity, Vishwanath is a multi-cultural hospitality icon with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Having commenced his career with Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel (2001) as part of the Food & Beverage team; he has swiftly moved up the ranks across Marriott International's myriad brands spanning the last two decades.

He has a proven record of implementing strategic initiatives delivering financial success in tandem with customer satisfaction. During his operational tenure, he has played a critical role in building F&B Reputation and establishing hotels such as Renaissance Mumbai and JW Marriott Pune as leading conference and wedding venues in the country.

Within two and half years, he moved to JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru as the Director of Operations. Following a very successful stint at positioning JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru as a premier destination in the city, he was then promoted as the General Manager for Courtyard by Marriott Chennai.

His most recent role comprised that of the prestigious Area Director - Operations for South & East India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. While his early years allowed him to hone his skills to develop award-winning concepts and drive revenue and reputation; his role as Area Director and General Manager over the last few years has given impetus to his growth and appointment into the luxury market.

Vishwanath uses his creative flair to increase employee engagement, implement standards, drive guest voice scores, build relationships with key stakeholders and grow hotel market share at exemplary levels.

He has also been a key Mentor and part of many Core pre-openings task force assignments and has been a recipient of several notable recognitions in his career and has consistently exhibited excellent leadership skills. His track record shows an innate ability to drive excellence across associate engagement, customer satisfaction, and profitability.

Armed with a degree from Mangalore University, Vishwanath is an avid traveler and takes a keen interest in exploring new places, history, and culture. He is also a fitness enthusiast and enjoys reading in his leisure time.

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Hilton News | Sustainable Travel Bucket List: 10 of the Best Eco-conscious Hiltons Around the World #4 Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands

When guests visit the new Hilton Garden Inn on the remote Faroe Islands, it feels almost otherworldly. But what’s behind the scenes is just as impressive: The entire property was built with sustainability at its core, embracing the archipelago’s own sustainable tourism strategy. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability starts from the top: the roof is covered in grass, allowing for ultra-efficient insulation and a building that seamlessly blends into the local environment. Inside, ultra-efficient heating systems, including under-floor heating, help keep guests warm and take into account occupancy levels to avoid heating unused spaces. Motion sensors on water taps and LED lighting further prevent energy waste. The hotel is powered by renewable energy from a local power plant that captures leftover energy from a range of industries.

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Appointment | Ram Chatterjee joins Pullman & Novotel New Delhi Aerocity as Wellness Advisor

Chatterjee with his professional experience of over 20 years, has made a mark in the global Hospitality, Health and Wellness industry

Pullman & Novotel New Delhi Aerocity has appointed Ram Chatterjee as Wellness Advisor. Chatterjee with his professional experience of over 20 years, has made a mark in the global Hospitality, Health and Wellness industry.

Chatterjee has been assigned with the responsibility to revamp the experience at the recently reopened Pullman Spa and overhaul the wellness program for guests and employees alike.

With exposure across India, Azerbaijan and Grand Cayman Islands, Chatterjee has worked with leading brands like Taj, ITC, Accor, Hyatt and Intercontinental-Kimpton.

He believes that through wellness practices our world can be a better place to live in harmony with nature.
Ram is a firm believer in, 'Knowledge is power' and in this pursuit, he is a degree holder in naturopathy, CIDESCO and CIBTAC. He is also a certified yoga teacher, meditator, and a black belt holder in Karate.

Several organizations such as the Indian Achievers award, Rotary club Shantiniketan, Asia Spa, Indian Hospitality Award, to name a few have recognized his contribution towards health and wellness.

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Appointment | Aramness appoints Vijay Krishnan Vazhvelil as the General Manager

Vazhvelil brings with him over 25 years of experience with leading hospitality brands

Aramness, a luxury adventure travel company that owns and operates lodges and arranges guest’s journeys to the most beautiful wilderness areas in India, recently appointed Vijay’ Krishnan Vazhvelil as the General Manager to soft and grand open four Wildlife Safari Luxury Lodges.

Vazhvelil brings with him over 25 years of experience with leading hospitality brands such as Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Starwood Hotels & Resorts (Associated with Starwood brands such as Le Meridien, Four Points by Sheraton & Design Hotels), American Express Banking Corporation, Alila Hotels & Resorts - Boundless Lifestyle Brand of Hyatt Hotels International and Windsor Golf Resort & Country Club.

He brings an array of skills and core competencies to the table & he is extremely proficient in the fields of Managing Complex Hotel, Resort & Safari Lodge Operations, Soft & Grand Opening Hotels & Resorts, Marketing & Sales, Business Planning and Project Management Processes, Room Division Operations, Food, Bar & Nightclub Management, Revenue Management & Electronic Marketing Management. His last operational role was being the General Manager of Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club, Nairobi, Kenya – A Relais & Chateaux Golf Resort.

Vazhvelil’s principal skills lie in the seamless functioning of all activities in the hotel & resort Management Operations as well as Marketing & Commercial Strategy of the functioning of a hotel, along with smooth communication between his office and the other areas. His vast experience with various kinds of employee engagement activities and environments has given him the right knowledge to maximize human capital productivity through the use of multi-skilling, multi-tasking, and multi-flexible scheduling to meet the financial goals of the business as well as the expectations of the guests.

With exceptional leadership skills to boast of, he strongly believes that a leader is only as good as his team and he ensure his team is satisfied and reaching its highest potential through regular communication and strong company values. Not only that, he also constantly evaluates local, national, and international market trends in Hotel Management and Operations, Designs of Hotels, Resorts & Safari Lodges, New Nightclubs & Bars Designs, Marketing & Revenue Management to make sure that the hotel’s management remains competitive and of cutting edge.

Aramness Gir National Park will be the first luxury lodge in a planned portfolio of luxury lodges across India and perhaps beyond.

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Apppointments | Benjamin Lalhmangaiha is the new Chef De Cuisine of Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel's pan-Asian restaurant- Zega

Benjamin Lalhmangaiha is the new Chef De Cuisine of Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel's pan-Asian restaurant- Zega

Chef Benjamin Lalhmangaiha is the newly appointed Chef De Cuisine at Zega, the award-winning specialty Pan-Asian restaurant at Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel.

In his new role, he is responsible for creating unique menus and overseeing culinary operations at Zega.

A dynamic epicurean, Chef Benjamin is on a quest to explore quirky and unusual ingredients to offer guests an extraordinary Pan-Asian dining experience. His forte lies in crafting innovative creations and infusing unique flavors in conventional dishes.

Prior to his positioning, he was the Senior Sous Chef at The Novotel Hotel Kolkata. He has worked his way from being a Commis to achieving the position of Chef De Cuisine at Sheraton Hyderabad. He has also been associated with Vivanta by Taj Begumpet Hyderabad. His zeal to provide gourmet experiences through personalized attention appeals to his audience and his outstanding guest reviews are a testimony to the great foundation he has set.

Chef Benjamin holds a Master’s degree in International Hospitality Management from Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK through the International Institute of Hotel Management, Kolkata. In his leisure time off, he loves to play the guitar and spending quality time with family.

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