New Opening | Signum Hotels & Resorts expand footprint in Rajasthan

Signum Hotels & Resorts announced its expansion in Rajasthan with Signum Eco Dera Resort & Spa, Jaipur. This is the company's second property in Rajasthan. The resort is located 70 km south of Jaipur, near Malpura town.

Signum Eco Dera Resort & Spa is a 36-room property offering the intertwined charms of heritage as well as modernity. Spread over 10 acres of land, the resort is a nature lover’s delight and epitomizes sustainable tourism with green practices such as rainwater harvesting, solar power usage, organic farming including chef’s garden, as well as dairy farming. Guests can enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic produce at the resort’s multi-cuisine restaurant and an eclectic range of beverages at the Bar.

On the hotel launch, Mehul Sharma, Founder & CEO, Signum Hotels & Resorts said, ‘we are happy to expand our footprint in the state of Rajasthan. Though times are challenging but leisure travel will still be the first segment to bounce back as soon as the current pandemic surge subsides. We are hopeful the current situation will improve and business will be back on track soon.’

Surrounded with natural beauty and calm, the resort is also an ideal wellness escape. The hotel spa offers a range of Ayurvedic treatments to help relax and rejuvenate. Other leisure facilities include a swimming pool and an onsite farm, alongside a jogging track and yoga deck for the fitness enthusiasts.

Signum Dera Resort & Spa offers multiple event venues that can accommodate from 80 to 3000 pax. Guests can choose to organize events indoor or plan a more lavish, yet intimate celebration outdoors at the open-air amphitheater with a picture-perfect mountain view as the backdrop.

Malpura, a heritage village near Jaipur, is one of the most picture-perfect and naturally endowed regions in Central Rajasthan with endless vegetation, wildlife, and breath-taking sand dunes. Signum Eco Dera Resort & Spa is 1.5 hrs from Jaipur International Airport and around 2 hrs from the Jaipur railway station.

For more information and images please contact Manika Bassi on +91 99997 89946 /

manika.bassi@gmail.com.

Hilton posts improved Q1 results, cuts losses in half - Net loss in the quarter was $109 million compared to $225 million in Q4 2020

Hilton has revealed its Q1 2021 results, and while losses are still in the millions, they are drastically less than Q4 2020.

Net loss in the quarter stood at US$109 million, well below the net income of $18 million in Q1 2020, but above the $225 million loss in the final quarter of the pandemic-struck 2020. Hilton also outperformed fellow US hotel group Hyatt, which saw losses amount to $304 million in Q1 2021.

System-wide comparable RevPAR shows a similar story, decreased 38.4 percent YOY, though still up from the 59.2 percent drop seen by the end of December last year. ADR and occupancy rates fell 23 and 11 percent respectively in Q1 2021, clocking in at $105.38 and $43.9. Adjusted EBITDA was $198 million for the first quarter

Looking at the MEA region specifically, it outperformed Europe across the board, with occupancies hitting 42.6 percent compared to 19.3 percent in Europe; ADR hitting $124.56 compared to $81.59; and RevPAR hitting $53.12 compared to $15.74.

Hyatt Reports First-Quarter 2021 Results - a net loss of $304 million

First quarter of 2021 highlights are as follows:

• Net losses increased compared to the first quarter of 2020 to a net loss of $304 million. The net loss included a $193 million non-cash full valuation allowance on U.S. deferred income tax assets.

• Adjusted EBITDA decreased 123.3% compared to the first quarter of 2020, to $(20) million.Comparable system-wide RevPAR decreased 48.9% compared to the first quarter of 2020, and decreased 65.4% compared to the first quarter 2019 on a reported basis.1

• Comparable owned and leased hotels RevPAR decreased 64.4% compared to the first quarter of 2020, and decreased 72.5% compared to the first quarter 2019 on a reported basis.1

• Net rooms growth of 6.5%.Pipeline of executed management or franchise contracts for approximately 100,000 rooms.

• As of March 31, 2021, the Company had cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $1,628 million.

Mr. Hoplamazian continued, "While risks do remain in the management of the pandemic, we are optimistic about continued growth of demand in the coming months and the balance of 2021. The demand levels we saw in March have continued through April. While leisure travel continues to lead the recovery, we are encouraged by positive indicators across other travel segments as well."

Covid NEWS | Sula Vineyards contributes INR 1 CR in the fight against Covid-19

India's #1 winery contributed to PM Cares Fund, Maharashtra State Disaster Management Fund & Karnataka CM Relief Fund

Sula Vineyards has contributed INR 1 crore in the fight against Covid-19. It includes 30 lakhs to the PM National Relief Fund (PM Cares), 30 lakhs to the Maharashtra CM Relief Fund and 10 lakhs to the Karnataka CM Relief Fund and will also be allocating 30 lakhs to local Nashik relief efforts and CSR activities over the next month.

Rajeev Samant, Founder & CEO, Sula Vineyards, said, “The people and corporate citizens of India have to step up quickly to fight this terrible second wave of Covid-19 which is devastating lives and livelihoods across our beloved country. We are immediately contributing INR 1 CR for maximal impact nationally and in Maharashtra and Karnataka where our wineries are based. All our thoughts and support go out to those on the front lines of fighting this deadly pandemic. We are with you!”

The donation is the latest step in the company’s efforts to help mitigate the consequences of the second wave of Covid-19. Sula Vineyards had donated INR 20 lacs to PM Cares and Maharashtra CM Relief Funds in 2020 as well. It also launched - We Care, an initiative to ensure the mental and physical well-being of its employees and their families across India.

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Covid NEWS | Gujarat: Hospitals, hotels join hands for isolation facilities, beds

Hotels are offering these services in collaboration with hospitals at prices ranging upwards of Rs 10,000 per day. Some have also made oxygen cylinders available.

When the availability of hospital beds in Ahmedabad is at a low, a few private hospitals have collaborated with hotels in the city to set up isolation facilities and oxygen beds for patients. For a charge, these hotels provide residents with isolation facilities, meals and medical attention from the hospital’s doctors. Many also have oxygen cylinders on standby, so patients’ medical needs can be addressed.

“We have collaborated with Medilink and Shalby Hospital to help treat Covid patients. Some 45 rooms at the hotel have been dedicated to patients with mild to moderate Covid. They are provided meals and the supervision of doctors. The treatment is managed by the hospitals with daily visits by paramedics or doctors to monitor patient's health,” said Atul Buddhraja, general manager, Ramada Hotel, which has reserved at least 50% of its room inventory for Covid care. The hotel also offers isolation facilities.

Hotels are offering these services in collaboration with hospitals at prices ranging upwards of Rs 10,000 per day. Some have also made oxygen cylinders available.

Pride Hotel in Ahmedabad is another such case. Koustuv Mukherjee, group head, Gujarat, Pride Group of Hotels, said, “Patients with oxygen saturation levels of more than 94% can get admitted to our hotel. We’ve earmarked two floors with 50 rooms which are available on a single or double occupancy basis. The hotel provides patients with meals and tea. If the patient needs to consult a doctor or oxygen support, these are available and will be charged accordingly.”

A couple of other hotels on Ashram Road have also converted their properties into Covid care facilities where patients who are asymptomatic or those with mild symptoms can be isolated. The Grand Bhagwati on SG Road has also dedicated eight rooms for doctors who deployed on 104 ambulances.

Hoteliers say the initiative does not generate much revenue but provides a cushion at a time when the industry is reeling from a revenue shortage.

“Hoteliers who have converted their properties into isolation centers are getting some revenue to meet their cost of operations. The hospitality sector has been going through a bad phase for a year and the lockdown-like restrictions have only worsened it,” said Narendra Somani, president, Hotels and Restaurants Association (HRA), Gujarat.

NEWS | FAITH Associations recommend changes in ECLGS 3.0

Proposed changes include, borrower status, calculation of outstandings and moratorium on interest to enable drawdown under the proposed scheme.

FAITH, the Policy Federation of all the national associations representing the complete tourism, travel and hospitality industry of India (ADTOI, ATOAI, FHRAI, HAI, IATO, ICPB, IHHA, ITTA, TAAI, TAFI) has made suggestions to Finance Ministry, RBI & Tourism Ministry on ECLGS 3.0, introduced on 31st March, 2021, the special credit guarantee window created for tourism, travel and hospitality.

First recommendation draws attention towards the Borrower Status. As per the guidelines issued under clause 4 & clause 7, under clause 1 in the NCGTC letter and in the FAQs number 8 & number 109, this scheme proposes to extend support to tourism, travel & hospitality accounts which were classified as regular, SMA -0 & SMA -1 and whose DPD (days past due ) were not beyond 60 days as on 29th Feb 2020.

However, clause 19 of the operational guidelines mentions that the scheme will not be applicable to accounts classified as NPAs ‘as on’ date of disbursement would not be eligible. This clause is inherently contradictory to the proposed spirit of the scheme which is to help borrowers by assessing their accounts on a pre- pandemic status.

If implemented quickly, this will a very strong signal of policy support to all FAITH member associations , said Aashish Gupta, Consulting CEO, FAITH

All Government data whether that of GST or of income tax repeatedly has highlighted and affirms that tourism, travel & hospitality is the worst hit sector and there has been negligible to NIL business for majority during the 13 months period since the time pandemic struck India.

Thus, FAITH has suggested to reissue the necessary instructions to have that clause 19 issued in operational guidelines of the scheme to be immediately annulled as it is sending a contradictory message to all MLIs ( member lending institutions)

The second recommendation is on Calculation of outstanding. FAITH seeks to consider eligible outstandings for tourism, travel & hospitality as an average of 11 months of FY 2020 ( April 1st 2019 - February 29th 2020 ) as just against the outstandings as of 29th Feb 2020.

The rationale for the same is that October - February is traditionally the peak tourism season in India and thus credit outstanding levels are usually the lowest during February. Accordingly, an 11 months average of outstandings would enable a correct need assessment of the Indian tourism, travel & hospitality enterprises as it would balance out the off- seasons and the peak season accordingly.

The third recommendation is the Moratorium on Interest. There is no moratorium on Interest on funds drawn under this scheme and it has to be paid as per clause 10 of the Guidelines and clause 16 of the FAQS.

FAITH highlighted that due to the second wave of the pandemic there is literally no domestic tourism business. This is on top of complete shutdown of all other segments of tourism - inbound , outbound , corporate and also group tourism business. Without any business, it is practically impossible for tourism, travel & hospitality entities to generate cash flows and to service interest.

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Appointment | Fairmont Jaipur gets Jaiveer Singh Rathore as New Associate Director of Talent & Culture

Jaiveer Singh Rathore's latest stint was at the ibis New Delhi Aerocity, where he held the position of Talent & Culture Manager.

Fairmont Jaipur announced the appointment of Jaiveer Singh Rathore as Associate Director of Talent & Culture, whereby he will lead the Human Resources, Learning and Development, and other functions of the palace property.

With an overall career of over 15 years, Rathore has worked with Accor India for the last 8 years, including his latest stint at the ibis New Delhi Aerocity, a large property with 445 keys, where he held the position of Talent & Culture Manager. In addition, he has also been part of the pre-opening Talent & Culture team at Novotel Guwahati, as well as Novotel Kolkata along with ibis Jaipur.

Along with establishing HR best practices, he has also been instrumental in mentoring many leaders in the HR department as well. In the previous years of work experience, he has gained experience through his roles with other hospitality and non-hospitality organizations which helped him develop a holistic understanding of human resources.

General Manager of Fairmont Jaipur, Rajiv Kapoor welcomes Rathore to the team with enthusiasm and says, “We are proud to have Jaiveer join our award-winning Fairmont Jaipur family, especially in these uncertain times. I am confident that with Jaiveer’s experience we will be able to encourage the team and pave our way towards great new achievements, all with the Accor values and principles in mind.”

Armed with a strong educational background with a double Masters, firstly Masters in Economical & Financial Management, along with Masters in Business Administration (HRM, HRD, Industrial Relation, and Decision Making), along with Post Graduate diplomas in Labour Law and Business Management, Rathore has the ideal background to lead the Talent & Culture Department of this large hotel.

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Covid NEWS | Now Kerala hotels to become wards for mild Covid patients

The KTDC is floating an Expression of Interest to convert its properties within the state for use by private hospitals to use as facilities for mild Covid patients.

The Grand Chaitram in Thiruvananthapuram is part of the pilot project of KTDC for converting hotels into Covid care facilities and associating with private hotels for patients not needing ICUs.

Given the severe stress being felt across India due to the debilitating fallout of the deadly second wave of the Covid-19 virus and the shortage of rooms to treat even moderate to mild symptomatic patients, the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation(KTDC), a government undertaking under the Kerala Tourism Department, has decided to float an Expression of Interest (EoI) which would let its hotels E converted into Covid care facilities for use by private hospitals in the state, according to an announcement made by the chief minister, Pinarayi Vijayan.

According to a senior official of the corporation, the EoI will be floated today for private hospitals to participate in. He said that on a pilot basis, the KTDC properties of Grand Chaitram in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi International Marina House, Ernakulamwill be used as Covid care centers private hospitals.

The idea is to ease the pressure on private hospitals for quarantine and covid care facilities from the “A-level” patients who do not require ICU or other health support systems, he added.

Kerala is one of the states where the Covid positivity rate is consistently above the 20 percent mark. The state had imposed additional restrictions almost equal to a lockdown till May 9 to contain the infection rate. KTDC has over 28 hotels in the luxury, budget as well as easy hotel category

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Appointment | Joseph Karam appointed as General Manager of Crowne Plaza Deira.

Joseph Karam appointed as General Manager of Crowne Plaza Deira. 

Karam has extensive professional and cultural exposure with 24 years of experience in multi-branded international hospitality companies across the world, including Lebanon, Thailand, UAE and Qatar.

Prior to this joining, he was the General manager for Ramada Jumeirah Hotel Dubai. He gained his exposure in the hotel industry from the Flagship property of Onyx Hospitality Group in Thailand, Intercontinental Dubai Festival city, etc.

He has strong commercial acumen with a proven track record at various companies and with vast experience of implementing creative and effective change initiatives

He holds a Bachelor’s Degree Holder of Hotel Management and Tourism with an MBA major in Human Resources Management.

Appointment | Kosta Kourotsidis appointed as Cluster GM at Fairmont Hotels AE

Kosta Kourotsidis is the new cluster general manager across Dubai, Ajman and Fujairah

In his new role, he will spearhead operations, performance, and strategic direction for his trio of hotels.

Fairmont Hotels and Resorts has promoted the current General Manager of Fairmont Ajman to Cluster General Manager of the group across the UAE.

In his new position, Kosta Kourotsidis will act as general manager for Fairmont Dubai, Fairmont Fujairah, and his existing Fairmont Ajman. Looking after a total of 827 keys, he will position the Dubai property as the leading business hotel along Sheikh Zayed Road, and the Ajman and Fujairah hotels as prime staycation destinations in the UAE.

While leading the Ajman hotel, he helped turn it into one of the emirate’s leading hotels, with sky-high occupancy rates throughout the first quarter of this year also. Other achievements while at the hotel include making it the first hotel to reopen in Ajman following the pandemic, and successfully vaccinating 97 percent of staff.

Kourotsidis has 25 years of experience under his belt, having worked across both Europe and the Middle East. Starting out in the F&B department, he moved from food and beverage to management when he became the EAM at Radisson Blu Tala Bay Resort.

From there he has served as GM of Radisson Blu Hotel Tripoli, Radisson Blu Resort Fujairah, Radisson Blu Martinez Hotel Beirut, Radisson Blu Hotel Downtown Dubai and The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa in Bahrain.

Kourotsidis commented: “I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to lead the dedicated and hardworking teams within these three iconic properties. From the moment guests set foot in our hotels, they embark on an unforgettable luxury experience made possible by our exceptional teams who display passion and professionalism in everything that they do. This is something I greatly enjoyed being a part of in Ajman and look forward to experiencing in both Dubai and Fujairah.”

Appointment | Sanjeev Mandal appointed as GM at Courtyard by Marriott Chennai

Sanjeev Mandal appointed as General Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Chennai

With his rich and diverse experience panning over 18 years. Sanjeev will lead the team at the hotel to strengthen its position in the value-driven market of Chennai.

Sanjeev who joined the Marriott Family 18 years ago is an award winning Operation and Food & Beverage Leader.

He started his journey with Goa Marriott Resort as an associate and worked with various Marriott brands. He has driven and led F&B Operation in Hyderabad and Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad.

Having essayed the F&B Leader role thoroughly and with much success, he was elevated to lead operations at the Fairfield Rajajinagar, Bengaluru. His multi-dimensional experience in different roles in Marriott International has helped him carve a niche in bringing about operational excellence which further elevated him as Hotel Manager for the first Marriott Hotel in Nepal and after a successful stint at Nepal Sanjeev took over as a property leader at Fairfield by Marriott Lucknow.

Sharing his views about his upcoming journey with Courtyard by Marriott in Chennai Sanjeev said, “The ramping up of Chennai as an industrial and financial hub while still maintaining its preserved culture and heritage has made it a unique destination, compared to other metropolitan cities in India, Continuing my journey with Marriott International, I look forward to the opportunity of strengthening the position of this hotel in the city’s growing hospitality sector".

Through Marriott's promise of hospitality, we will put our best foot forward to continue offering specially curated experiences for our new and existing guests. The focus will be on improving processes and bring about innovations in our services to best cater to the diverse requirements of our esteemed customers.

A firm believer in collaborative approach and putting people first and lead from the front. He is known for his well-thought out business strategies and keeping his team dynamic and motivated.

About Courtyard by Marriott, Chennai:

Courtyard Chennai is a contemporary retreat for today's business and leisure traveler with 242 keys. Unpack and make yourself at home in modern hotel rooms or deluxe suites and apartments. Thoughtful extras such as kitchenettes, complimentary Wi-Fi, marble bathrooms and indulgent bedding are all designed to make your vacation or extended stay with us as comfortable as possible. Benefit from our convenient setting in the Teynampet area which offers seamless access to the airport in just 25 minutes, near the US Consulate, Valluvar Kottam Monument, Gemini Circle, Apollo Hospital, Mount Road, the Valluvar Kottam Monument, Chetpet Lake, World’s second largest Marina Beach, Santhome Cathedral Basilica Church, Fort St. George.

Dine on flavorsome international fare at our hotel restaurants and achieve success in adaptable meeting and multiple break-out venues. After a memorable day of business, shopping or sightseeing, exercise in our fitness center, then rejuvenate yourself with a calming treatment at O2 Spa. Our aim is to inspire discovery, productivity and relaxation while providing a home away from home during your stay at Courtyard Chennai. It offers modern, extended-stay hotel rooms, suites and apartments with kitchenettes. This hotel also features restaurants, complimentary Wi-Fi, versatile meeting rooms, a business centre, executive lounge and wellness therapies at O2 Spa.

Appointment | Norton Pereira joins Crowne Plaza Gurugram as General Manager

In his new role, he will be responsible for the operations of this iconic hotel and will continue to drive the hotel to greater performance across various verticals.

Crowne Plaza Today Gurugram appoints Norton Pereira as the General Manager along with his current assignment of Area General Manager for a portfolio of 13 hotels. In his new role, he will be responsible for the operations of this iconic hotel and will continue to drive the hotel to greater performance across various verticals.

Norton Pereira is a passionate hotelier with demonstrated experience of over two decades in the hospitality industry in varying capacities. He has been associated with IHG since 2018. Pereira brings a wealth of experience in driving excellence and leading the hotels to greater performance with his unique style of leadership. 

He has worked in various capacities with Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Le Meridien, Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa, Westin Mumbai and Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces. He has focused his energies on creating a hotel that offers a unique and unparalleled experience to creative and curious-minded travelers.

A passionate hotelier, Pereira enjoys listening to classic jazz, is an avid vinyl collector, and holds a keen interest in vintage cars and motorcycles.

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Appointment | Anil Chavan joins Novotel Imagica Khopoli as General Manager

Anil Chavan joins Novotel Imagica Khopoli as General Manager

Chavan comes with almost two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked in operations as well as sales & marketing with a range of brands across India and Dubai.

Novotel Imagica Khopoli has announced the appointment of Anil Chavan as General Manager, effective March 2021.

In his new role, Chavan will focus on enhancing the overall guest experience at the 287 rooms Novotel Imagica Khopoli, and will be responsible for revenue growth and overseeing the management of the operations team. Formerly, he was associated with Park Regis, Goa and was also the General Manager of Royal Tulip Mumbai (Louvre Hotels Group).

Chavan comes with almost two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked in operations as well as sales & marketing with a range of brands across India and Dubai.

He started his career as a Sales executive with Le Royal Meridien, Mumbai. In addition to this, he has contributed to well-known Hotels and service apartment brands like Marriott, Le Meridien, Intercontinental, Habtoor Grand Jumeirah Beach Resort & Spa Dubai to name a few. Chavan’s core competence lies in managing hotel sales, operations and revenue management.

He has won several accolades under his leadership and was nominated for the HOSI General Manager of the year 2019. In 2018, he was awarded India’s Top Ten Hospitality General Managers by Best of India Biz Award.

Chavan has also had the opportunity to showcase his skills in UAE, Abu Dhabi and the Singapore market. He has worked with Habtoor Grand Jumeirah beach & Oakwood handling corporate sales, building International market share, attending Global mobility workshops and trade fairs.

Having spent a significant time in the Mumbai market, Chavan brings remarkable insights into customer diversity and has an impressive understanding of demand drivers. He likes to stay updated and always has a keen eye on changing sales and marketing trends.

Chavan holds a graduate degree in Philosophy, Economics, and Statistics. In his spare time, he likes to travel, listen to Jazz and explore new restaurants.  He is also a fitness enthusiast.

Event | Celebrating MOM with special offers from ITC Royal Bengal & ITC Sonar

Celebrating MOM with special offers from ITC Royal Bengal & ITC Sonar

ITC Royal Bengal & ITC Sonar help you celebrate Mother’s Day 9th May 2021 with a gastronomic journey filled with enchanting flavours. Experience an array of culinary delights with your MOM in the comfort of your home. Each offer is thoughtfully curated keeping in mind guest and associates safety and well-being.

One of a Kind Cake Selection: It’s time to let your mom know that she is one of a Kind. Fill up her day with sweet moments brought alive by our exquisitely crafted cakes, Our Cakes are made to our own exclusive recipes using the best ingredients- from exquisite celebrations cakes, Gateaux and more. Each cake is a work of art. It encapsulates the extravagant, the fancy and the beautiful, crafting a combination of unusual flavours and textures with the finest ingredients from across the world. A must-have masterpiece for a special occasion. Choose from - Forêt Noir (Hungarian Sour Cherry Confit, Turkish Hazelnut Praline, 67% Manjari Chocolate Mousse in a Velvet finish.) 70% Baked Chocolate Gateau (70% Guanaja Baked Chocolate Cake, 70% Guanaja Dark Chocolate Cremeux and 70% Guanaja Dark Chocolate Silk Ganache) La Passion (Guatemala Vanilla Bean cremeux, Pistachio & Basil Jaconde sponge, Passionfruit Mango Ganache, BlackBerry Marmalade.) Red Velvet Cheesecake (Beetroot and vanilla Cream cheese Baked cheesecake on Venezuela Chocolate sponge.) or the Banoffee (Banana Sponge, Coconut Crunchy, Soft Caramel Sponge with nuts, Banana Cream, Exotic Caramel, Lemon Mousse) to name a few. Starting at INR 3750 plus taxes onwards, available on 24 Hours pre-order.

Gourmet Couch: ITC Hotels F&B App & Gourmet Couch (ITC Hotels pan India signature home delivery and takeaway menu from its iconic cuisine brands) shall enable unique dining experiences at home. "Home Celebrations" by Gourmet Couch are designed for joyous moments filled with delightful selections, featuring signature menus that celebrate the spirit of special events or simply loved ones coming together. Ranging from feasts to pick and choose from to delectable sets of curated set meals. Gourmet Couch also offers s a distinctive menu collection showcasing ITC Hotels culinary legacy bringing you the finest cuisine offering from iconic brands and award winning cuisines of ITC Hotels. Relish signatures such as Dal Bukhara, Dum Pukht Biryani or delicacies from Pan Asian, Royal Vega and Ottimo in the comfort of your home making the occasion memorable. 

Celebrate with Biryani & Pulao Collection by ITC Hotels, our signature preparations perfectly portioned for a party of four and more. Starting at INR 1900 plus applicable taxes onwards. The Vegetarian selection of the Biryani & Pulao Collection includes Kale Moti Pulao, Subz Paneer Pulao, Nimona Mirch Pulao, Kathal Pulao (Seasonal) priced at Rs 625 plus applicable taxes each, the Mutton Signatures includes Keema Pulao Rs 750 plus applicable taxes, Gosht Bohri Biryani Rs 825 plus applicable, Metiabruz Biryani Rs 825 plus applicable and Serai ki Biryani at Rs 825 plus applicable while the Chicken  & Seafood Delicacies include Chemmeen Pulao (Prawn) at Rs 825,  Bibi ka Murgh Pulao Rs 750 plus applicable taxes and Konaseema Kodi Pulao Rs 750 plus applicable taxes. 

Each Biryani (chicken, seafood, mutton or vegetarian) is an ideal meal for one with a choice of either Mirch Baingan ka Salan or any one of the three raitas: Anar Kheera Raita/ Onion Pachadi/ Sarson Raita. Complete your meal with one of India’s most popular desserts, from the Dum Pukht kitchen, the signature “Shahed-E-Jaam”, with our compliments. The menu comes with dietary indicators, enabling diners to pre-advice on allergy ingredients. 

The Biryani & Pulao Collection & Gourmet Couch is available on prominent food aggregator’s platform, Zomato, Swiggy & EazyDiner.  In addition, the collection can be ordered via the ITC F&B App and Takeaway option. ITC Hotels has also enabled ‘no contact’ deliveries on all pre-paid orders and has implemented stringent measures and protocols, including mandatory temperature checks for all Chefs and Food & Beverage associates as part of its safe 'WeAssure' programme. A lot of thought has been put in the packaging after study of factors such as temperature, distance travelled, mode of transport, consumption techniques, re-heating norms and more. The food is packed in environment-friendly corrugated paper boxes. Easy to have on the go or order in for a celebration or get together.

For Further Information and to place an order please call 033 44464646

Video Lessons | Essential Skills For Food and Beverage Personnel | How is Alcohol made? Part-2 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.

Appointment | Sohaib Kidwai is the new General Manager of Hyatt Place Vadodara

Originally, from New Delhi, Kidwai started his career with Marriott and worked in Food & Beverage with Marriott properties in Mumbai and Goa, joining their Sales team in 2007

Sohaib Kidwai has been appointed as General Manager at Hyatt Place Vadodara. Kidwai began his career with Hyatt in 2008 with Grand Hyatt Mumbai as Sales Manager.

He subsequently moved to Park Hyatt Chennai for the pre-opening team in 2012 and was Director of Sales in 2013. He then moved to Hyatt Pune as Director of Sales & Marketing in 2015.

Kidwai then joined Hyatt Regency Chennai as Director of Sales & Marketing managing a team of 23 Sales, Events, Marketing & Revenue Management colleagues.

He soon developed an interest in hotel operations and was elevated to Director of Operations in 2019 managing Front Office, Housekeeping, Security, Spa, and overlooking Sales & Marketing Operations.

In 2020, he was appointed as General Manager – Task Force at Hyatt Ahmedabad. Following which he joined as General Manager – the pre-opening team at Hyatt Place Vadodara.

Speaking about his continued association with Hyatt, he says, “Hyatt really feels like home and I am grateful for all the opportunities it has given me across its various brands. I have gathered many great memories during my tenure with Hyatt and worked with some amazing people. Now I look forward to creating more such memories with my team and guests here at Hyatt Place Vadodara.”

Originally, from New Delhi, Kidwai started his career with Marriott and worked in Food & Beverage with Marriott properties in Mumbai and Goa, joining their Sales team in 2007.

Appointment | Amit Kumar joins Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa as its new General Manager

He joins Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa taking on the responsibility of strengthening the hotel operations and spearheading the team with his impressive interpersonal & management abilities.

Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa, the experience-driven beach resort in Chennai has announced Amit Kumar as its newly appointed General Manager.

He joins Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa taking on the responsibility of strengthening the hotel operations and spearheading the team with his impressive interpersonal & management abilities and knack of innovative strategic planning. He will continue to enhance the stellar services and guest experiences established at the hotel.

Kumar, a highly motivated and dynamic hotelier, is set to take the reins in these unprecedented times and steer the hotel’s objective of creating a safe and welcoming destination for guests. With his astute leadership in managing hotels, he will focus his efforts on ensuring the wellbeing of the hotel team and safeguarding the health and best interests of guests.

In the course of his enriching experience of 17 years in the hospitality industry, which includes a decade spent with Marriott International Hotels, Kumar has been well recognized for his excellent communication skills, revenue driving qualities, and valuable marketing strategies for F&B.

Prior to this move, he served in the same capacity at Courtyard by Marriott Chennai. Having also worked with Global Brands like Hyatt, Carlson, Starwood and now Marriott International, Amit has honed his knowledge in the field through the course of his career and is a testament to his belief that dedication and a strong foundation is one of the key steps to success.

He was awarded RVP F&B Leader of the Year for South Asia in 2014 and under his leadership, Marriott Chennai received “Best Iconic Hotel” from Times Award, “Company with Great Managers Award powered by The Economic Times” award, and many more accolades.

In his roles, Kumar ardently helped raise RPI to double digits, market share, drive digital revenue growth, improvise OTA performance, and focused on digital marketing. Moreover, he also garners traction for leisure business and contributes to enhancing the Food & Beverage reputation at the hotels he is assigned.

Kumar did his schooling in Meerut from Dewan Public School and furthered his academics with a degree in Hotel Management, Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition from IHM Hyderabad. He is an avid athlete and likes to play basketball in his spare time.

When it comes to his personal and professional life, Kumar strongly believes - “Do it with passion or don’t do it all” and trusts that “There is no shortcut to success.”

NEWS | Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre offers special Ramadan Iftar Takeaway Menu

Hyderabad: To celebrate the spirit of Holy Ramadan and provide   convenience to the fasting guests Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre has introduced a special Iftar Takeaway menu. Chef Kailash Gundupalli, Director Culinary and his team of chefs at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre have curated the sumptuous spread which will offer the guests and the customers a fulfilling meal to break their fast. The dishes are prepared using authentic ingredients and flavour some appeal giving a homely feel to the customers. 

 The ‘Special’ crafted menu for Iftar can be ordered on this 9642326162 number for ‘Takeaways’ before 8 PM till Ramadan. The takeaway will include traditional food options like Mutton Haleem, Gosht ki Shammi kebab, Hyderabadi Murgh biryani with raita and salan, Warqi Paratha, Sheer khurma, cut fruits, Dates and almonds, a variety of dry fruits & many more to savor from in just 1099/- + taxes. 

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre said, “Keeping up with the spirit of Ramadan and offer convenience to our guests and patrons we are offering a special Iftar menu which will allow them savor and enjoy a variety of Ramzan specialties. Our team has created a home-like feel using authentic techniques and richness. Everyone can savor the traditional blend of dishes during this holy month of Ramadan.”

About Novotel-

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 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

VISIT MALDIVES | COMMENCES YEAR-LONG CAMPAIGN WITH CONNOISSEUR CIRCLE TARGETING GERMAN SPEAKING MARKETS

Visit Maldives commences a year-long campaign with Connoisseur Circle - an exclusive magazine for luxury hotels and destinations worldwide targeting an elite audience of travel enthusiasts in Germany, Switzerland and Austria.

The campaign will use a multitude of platforms in both the online and offline channels of the publication in order to promote the Maldives as a safe haven and uplift the destination presence for the luxury market. The components of the campaign are distributed throughout the year which includes, advertorials in the print magazine, editorial stories in e-magazines, posts and promotional clips on social media, website banner display and features in newsletters.

Maldives is also nominated as the Best Luxury Destination for the Year by the Hospitality Awards organised by Connoisseur Circle. Over 30,000 consumers are reached through the online channels with 43,500 users on their social media platforms. Additionally, 47,000 copies in Germany, 9,000 copies in Switzerland and 25,000 copies in Austria are circulated reaching many high-income earners.

7,386 visitors from Germany, 5,189 from Switzerland and 2,235 from Austria arrived in Maldives till February 2021. Though these figures are low compared to figures of 2020, due to ongoing travel restrictions, their market contributions are significant, with Germany holding a market ranking of 7 whereas Switzerland and Austria rank at 10 and 13 respectively.

The campaign with Connoisseur Circle is part of Visit Maldives’ strategy in promoting the Maldives to the German speaking markets through ambient advertising along with usage of German language on social media platforms. Similarly, several campaigns are underway to further promote the destination in these markets.

These include several B2B and B2C activities like Joint promotions with Airlines and Tour Operators, destination training and several more collaborations with media and key stakeholders in the market. Visit Maldives also participated in ITB Berlin held this March, one of the leading travel and trade shows in the world. Throughout the 4-day virtual fair, a variety of networking events were carried out and provided a platform to strengthen destination presence and promote the Maldives as a safe haven.

Despite the global pandemic, Maldives has welcomed a total of 555,494 travelers in 2020 and over 190,000 travelers till February 2021. Amongst the many activities planned for the remainder of the year includes social media campaigns, joint marketing campaigns with global stakeholders, familiarization trips, and visibility campaigns. Several marketing activities and strategies have also been shifted to digital platforms in order to promote the destination whilst adapting to the evolving situation.

The administration of the covid-19 vaccine was initiated on 1st February 2021 with the government of the Maldives aiming to provide free covid-19 vaccines to all citizens and residents of the country in the upcoming months. As of 15th April 2021, 277،522 people in the Maldives have received the first dose of the vaccine with 34,531 receiving the second dose. 90% of the workers in the tourism industry of the Maldives have also been administered the first dose of the vaccine. The initiation of the vaccination drive is bound to offer hope to the local population, as well as ensure the safety of tourists.

Source

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Ingredient Ideology | summer mocktail JAMUN WATERMELON QUENCHER By Chef Rizwan

JAMUN WATERMELON QUENCHER (8 serves)

Ingredients

• Fresh watermelon diced- 7 cups

• Fresh Jamun(seedless)- 8 to 10

• Mint leaves - 1/2 cup

• Sugar- 100 gm

• Black pepper- 10 gm

• Salt - a pinch

• Soda water - 750 ml

Procedure

1. Blend 7 cups of watermelon, seedless Jamun, and sugar until smooth. Strain through a mesh strainer to remove any seeds or pulp, reserving the juice.

2. Add fresh watermelon juice, crushed black pepper, and a pinch of salt to a large pitcher. Stir to incorporate.

3.Chill for 2-4 hours.

4. Before serving, stir again. Fill a glass with ice. Pour in the watermelon mixture until the glass is ⅔rds of the way full. Top off the glass with chilled soda water.

5. Garnish with fresh mint and watermelon slice if desired.

Note- Jamun crush could be used as an alternative to fresh jamun.