New Opening | SETTE MARA - A MIDDLE EASTERN LOUNGE, BAR and KITCHEN OPENS AT THE ST. REGIS MUMBAI

Sette Mara, the newest addition to the vibrant F&B offerings at The St. Regis Mumbai is a Lounge, Bar and Kitchen, at Level 9M.

Sette Mara takes inspiration from the rich coastline, linking the vibrant culture of Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, Lebanon, Persia and Georgia.  Helmed by the charming Chef Reuben, the menu is curated with deep nuances of aromatic spices and wholesome ingredients originating from The Levant.  Chef Reuben, extremely passionate and creative about his craft, has shaped the experience, preserving and celebrating the tradition of the community and family sharing style of the middle eastern countries.   

The menu with ‘The Cold Kitchen’ and ‘The Hot Kitchen’, opens with appetizers of freshly tossed salads and tempting Mezzes that are crafted with a blend of contemporary and traditional recipes.  Cold and Hot Mezzes like Hummus Beiruti, Talatouri, Muhammarah, Garlic Labneh, Kataifi Prawns and Lamb and Bell Pepper Souvlaki begin your journey at Sette Mara.  ‘The Large Plates’ with dishes like Israeli Cous Cous Risotto, Eggplant & Sweet Potato Moussaka, Salt Baked Whole Seabass, Braised Chicken Maqlouba and Dijaj Bil Sanieh are brought fragrant and steaming hot to the table.  The Mangal Grill, a traditional middle Eastern charcoal grill, holds pride of place in the menu with a unique style of ‘grilling to perfection’ mastered by Chef Reuben and his team.  The soft and fluffy Georgian bread under the ‘The Khachapuri Bar’ is aromatic and served freshly baked from the ‘Tone’, a traditional stone oven. The menu closes with luscious desserts and house made ice-creams selections.

The energetic Bar and Lounge at Sette Mara features a collection of handcrafted cocktails and Negronis, freshly concocted by our interactive and spirited bartenders.  The Negroni, with equal parts Campari, Gin, and Sweet Vermouth are barrel aged and served from a barrel making the drink, bitter, sweet, dry and refreshing all at once.  The selection of a variety of cocktails like Oak Barrel Aged Negroni, The Luxury Boulevardier, Sette Mara Aromatic Spritz, Turkish Old Fashioned and Crystal Truffle Negroni can be relished at Sette Mara.

Sette Mara is an exhilarating, vibrant and energetic space set against the backdrop of deep, marine blues.   From azure to Prussian blue, Chef Reuben’s menu comes alive under the magnificent navigational constellation compass suspended above the dining area.  The Lounge and Bar are reminiscent of the exciting middle Eastern ports with burnished rusts, burgundies and cinnamon tones reflective of the precious cargo of spices, wines and perfume.  The intricate mural behind the long bar and the iconic motifs harken on the stories of dancing against flickering candlelight unbelievable adventure in exotic locales.  Welcome to Sette Mara.

About St. Regis Hotels & Resorts

Combining classic sophistication with a modern sensibility, St. Regis is committed to delivering exceptional experiences at nearly 40 luxury hotels and resorts in the best addresses around the world. Since the opening of the first St. Regis hotel in New York City over a century ago by John Jacob Astor IV, the brand has remained 

News | Khyathi bags integrated sales, marketing and communications mandate for Anuraga Palace and Rajasthali Resort & Spa

Khyathi bags integrated sales, marketing and communications mandate for Anuraga Palace and Rajasthali Resort & Spa

Jaipur, August 2021: Khyathi, a coming of age sales and marketing brand, has won integrated marketing and communications mandate for the luxury boutique property, Anuraga Palace in Ranthambore and the luxurious Rajasthali Resort & Spa in Jaipur. As part of the mandate, Khyathi will be innovating and strategizing on their sales, marketing- digital and social media, creatives, visual content, and public relations to promote their unique offerings and top-notch services.

Anuraga Palace, one of the oldest in Ranthambore has over the years transpired itself into one of the finest luxurious palace resorts, while still preserving ancient heritage. It is a perfect amalgamation of wilderness and luxury along with a touch of history, culture, and tradition at Ranthambore. Whereas, Rajasthali Resort & Spa is a luxury resort spread across 25 acres and located against the picturesque backdrop of the Aravalli ranges. A unique blend of affordability and luxury experience is what defines the truly magnificent and rejuvenating stay experience.

“We are excited on our partnership with the hospitality brands such as The Anuraga Palace and Rajasthali Resort & Spa. We are working towards strengthening the brand's visibility and recall value by positioning it amongst the best hotels. Through our extensive marketing strategies that resonate with the brands’, we will build on creating a strong customer base for them.” - quoted Varun Mehrotra, Co-Founder and CEO of Khyathi.

"It gives us immense pleasure to be associated with two distinct hospitality brands. With a 360 degree integrated mandate, we are aiming to re-inforce on their online and offline presence and work as their partner in increasing sales" - quoted Anubha Srivastava, Co-Founder, Khyathi.

Khyathi assists their patrons to amplify their incremental revenues, gain a loyal customer base and market their name to become a known brand and expand their accounts. As a brand, they work to provide a variety of solutions for sales and marketing including digital and social media marketing, campaign strategizing, visual content creation, revenue maximization, content marketing and strategy and brand management amongst the others.

Khyathi strives to bring the well-deserved fame to the name. One can reach the company for business association through https://khyathi.co/.

Brand Hilton | The Wakao Food Fest brings a unique Menu across Hilton properties

India, August 2021- Inspired by the growing appetite among consumers for sustainable and naturally available alternatives to animal-based meat, Hilton India, in partnership with Wakao Foods, has put up a sustainable food showcase for guests. The exciting food festival - 'The Wakao Fest,' aims at offering an unforgettable dining experience through an exquisite menu with jackfruit as the core ingredient. The innovative food menu will be available across dining outlets at Hilton properties in the country. 

Commenting on the association, Mr. Prashant Kulkarni, Director F&B, India-Hilton said, “At Hilton F&B, we wanted to keep innovation, sustainability, and deliciousness at the front and center of the creative process, and we challenged our Chefs to take Jackfruit, the humblest of ingredients, and come up with a menu which will excite and intrigue the palate. With Wakao we have been able to do just that. Wakao is an expression that perfectly captures the flavourful twist of our dishes as well as the guests' reaction when they dine at any of our Hilton outlets." 

"The shift towards plant-based alternatives is the most dominant trend of 2021 triggered by the growing consciousness about mindful and healthy eating. The Wakao Fest explores unique dishes that are sustainable to serve and bring guest delight.” Prashant added.

With the joint vision of placing jackfruit as a sustainably sourced plant-based meat substitute, the collaboration between Hilton and Wakao Foods aims at supporting local producers and products, as well as bringing plant-based alternatives prominently to the food and beverage scene in India. A sustainable crop, sourced locally, which does not need irrigation, pesticides/herbicides, Jackfruit can be intergrown with other crops to create a regenerative ecosystem. 

Sairaj Dhond, Founder & CEO Wakao Foods said, "As the world looks at more plant-based alternatives, which are healthier and more sustainable options, there is a growing interest in meatless meals off late. The versatile and indigenously grown jackfruit is bursting onto the scene and finding itself being used more often. The pop-up, therefore, explores the versatility of the humble jackfruit, which is considered a superfood but needs to be more relevant across the cuisine culture of the country." 

“It is a great honor to be associated with an international brand like the Hilton, so early in our life cycle. These kinds of platforms and collaborations give brands and start-ups like ours a fillip to take our efforts to more people and educate the consumer as well. The collaboration brings Hilton’s culinary expertise to one of our most loved indigenous products - Jackfruit.” Added Sairaj.

The artisanal menu at The Wakao Fest has been curated by the culinary experts at Hilton to offer multiple cuisines and gourmet delights comprising starters, main course and desserts, by leveraging the versatility and richly layered flavors and textures of the Jackfruit. Guests can sample dishes like Faux Pao, The Wakao Krapow, Parmesan Polenta, and “Bar of Bliss” and much more during this festival across the FnB outlets at @SAIPE at Hilton Goa, Coriander Kitchen at Conrad Pune, The Amber Kitchen at DoubleTree by Hilton Jaipur Amer,Terazzo at Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa to name a few. The festival will be celebrated from August to November 2021 across Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Goa, Bangalore, Chennai, Lucknow, Agra, Jaipur and Trivandrum.

New Opening | Anantara Announces Upcoming Launch of New Resort on Dubai’s World Islands

We are pleased to announce an exciting addition to the brand’s portfolio in Dubai with the upcoming launch of Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort in Q4 of 2021. The new resort will be the first hotel in the South American continent of the World Islands development.

The island will be completely dedicated to the resort, with guests able to access by boat in just 15 minutes from the jetty at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort. The property will feature 70 keys comprised of villas and suites. Villas will have a private pool, an outdoor dining area and direct access to the beach, making the perfect retreat for families and couples.

The new resort will offer multiple dining options, in addition to a stylish bar lounge with magnificent panoramic views of the Dubai skyline, including the famous landmarks Burj Khalifa and Burj al Arab. In-room spa treatments, a gym and a kid’s club will also be part of the new resort's amenities.

New Opening | Rakabi The Fern opens in Igatpuri

Rakabi The Fern opens in Igatpuri

The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain has opened Rakabi The Fern, Igatpuri in Nashik District in Maharashtra. This is the 18th hotel which the company is managing in the state. This takes the tally to 81 operational properties in India, Nepal and Seychelles.

Suhail Kannampilly, the CEO of the company said, “The Fern brand is extremely popular in the state. We have as many as 18 hotels in the state. Within the next few weeks we are going to open another two hotels in Maharashtra. All our hotels are environment-friendly and follow all health and safety protocols for our associates and our guests.”

Rakabi The Fern, Igatpuri is an upscale 76 room hotel, offering four different categories of rooms-Winter Green, Fern Club, Fern Club Premium and Hazel Suite.  The rooms are fitted with all modern amenities.  All the rooms have digital in-room safe, weighing scale, bedroom slippers, pillow menu, eco-friendly room lighting, eco-friendly  bathroom amenities and rain showers.

The hotel boasts of a finely designed multi cuisine restaurant, an authentic Indian vegetarian restaurant, bar, swimming pool and state of art banquet halls. The hotel is situated on National Highway 3 with easy access to public transport and  major sightseeing attractions. The hotel offers spacious banquet and meeting rooms, business centre facilities, and huge lawns for open air banqueting. The hotel also has a swimming pool, spa, gym, activities centre and children’s play area. 

DINING: The hotel provides ample dining and entertaining options to its guests.

 Mélange, a multi cuisine restaurant offers a wide range of Indian, Asian and international spreads and non-alcoholic beverages.

Spice Della, the Indian vegetarian restaurant, gives the best experience of a wide range of exotic flavors and ingredients.

Cake Boy, a bakery serving light snacks, freshly baked goods along with hot & cold beverages.

Ecstasy Bar, a contemporary bar offering a mix of appetizers and cocktails from a wide range of outstanding liquors and spirits. It is the perfect place to come and unwind after a busy day.

Location: The hotel is 120 km from Mumbai Airport, 3 km from Igatpuri Railway Station, and 48 km from Nashik city. 

Address:

G.N.431 433, NH-3

Talegaon TQ, Igatpuri 422 403

Nashik, Maharashtra, India

T: +91 97678 99526

E: fom.tf.igatpuri@fernhotels.com

Insights | This Independence Day, National Geographic to premiere ‘Buried Seeds’; the inspiring journey of world-renowned Indian Chef Vikas Khanna

“Buried Seeds uncovers many memories and emotions that were hidden inside me for so long” – Chef Vikas Khanna

For the first time on television, catch the inspiring and invigorating story of Vikas Khanna, directed by Andrei Severny on 15th August 2021 at 9.00 pm on National Geographic in India

India,  August, 2021: National Geographic, known for bringing stories that take you on an enlightening and transformative journey, is celebrating this Independence Day with the premiere of Buried Seeds, the life story of Michelin chef Vikas Khanna. National Geographic in India is bringing to its viewers the timeless and true story of human passion and willpower on television for the first time. 

Directed and produced by contemporary filmmaker Andrei Severny, the film traces the journey of Vikas Khanna from his beginnings as a child with misaligned feet to the man who took Indian cuisine to the world. Vikas narrates the incredible story of how he learned to walk and won people’s hearts with the magic of his cooking. Along the way, he becomes one of the most influential chefs in the world and a cultural ambassador of India. The film also captures the true essence of Indian culture, heritage, and customs through kaleidoscopic visuals of India, with all the beauty, bonding, and sacrifices made by an Indian family to fulfill the dream of their child. 

“At National Geographic, we believe in telling stories that are perspective-shifting, eye-opening and sometimes even life-changing. This Independence Day, we wanted to celebrate by giving our viewers an exclusive access to the story of an Indian icon – Vikas Khanna. Buried Seeds is a transformational story of passion, devotion, faith combined with Vikas’ immense love for Indian culture. We are confident that this storytelling will give viewers an incredible perspective into the chef’s life. It is truly a moment of pride to associate with Vikas and Andrei and bring their film to our audiences for the very first time on television on such a significant day,” said a National Geographic spokesperson  

“Buried Seeds is very personal to me. It’s a collective wisdom of everybody that influenced and inspired me, from poets, philosophers, mentors to family members. Their words are with me through every struggle or triumph. Buried Seeds uncovers many memories and emotions that were hidden inside me for so long. It is my hope that people will see something of themselves in my story. I hope they will see the possibilities for what they can become. The music does not end in us. Sometimes we need to open our hearts and listen. That’s what Buried Seeds helped me do in my life - and that’s what I believe it can offer to others,” said Vikas Khanna

“Buried Seeds offers a fresh perspective in these challenging times. The seeds are inside each of us; they unite us and will only grow strong. The old “you” will die to give space to the new “you” – a particle in the long chain of generations, a speck of dust of collective wisdom and an everlasting sacrifice for the children and those who come after. I am very grateful to National Geographic and its magnificent team for a chance to share the film with its audience. I hope this film will make the viewers think and look at their own lives and dreams in a new light,” said Andrei Severny

The film has been distributed by FilmKaravan

Buried Seeds will air on 15th August 2021, at 9.00 pm on National Geographic in India

About National Geographic Partners 

National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and the National Geographic Society, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure, and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. . NGP returns 27% of the proceeds to the non-profit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation, and education. In India, National Geographic Channel and Nat Geo Wild are available across six languages and have a wide-ranging mix of international shows which are made local relevant and shows that are developed and created locally 

About FilmKaravan

FilmKaravan is a streamlined aggregation & delivery solution house that aggregates, encodes, packages, and delivers films and web-series to major digital platforms. Having produced the recently International Emmy award winning series Delhi Crime their production house has churned out coming of age original content like What Are the Odds? & Leeches streaming on popular streaming platforms. To raise the banner of independent cinema, Filmkaravan has also collaborated with YouTube by launching an online non for profit film festival called Bandra Film Festival early this year showcasing innovative, cutting edge films & hidden gems made by prolific film makers on their exclusive YouTube channel. For more information, visit www. http://www.filmkaravan.com/

New Opening of 2021 | #7 Habitas AlUla , opening in second half of the year 2021

Millennial-focused Habitas, which began life as a brand that brought a like-minded community of travellers together around immersive events, will open a 100-room, luxury eco-resort in the desert canyons of Ashar Valley this October. Self-described as a brand that prioritizes “human connection and experiences over the traditional luxury experience of five-star hotels”.

IHCL reports Q1 revenue from operations at INR 345 cr; losses at INR 301.5 cr

IHCL reported revenue from operations of INR 344.55 crore for the quarter ended June this year, up from INR 144 crore in the corresponding period of the last fiscal. On a quarter on quarter basis though, it reported a 44 per cent fall in revenues.

It reported losses of INR 301.5 crore down from INR 313 crore in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, losses were up by 102 per cent.

IHCL said business for the quarter was severely impacted on account of the second wave and the chain witnessed softer revenues due to partial or complete lockdowns in several states of India.

---

---

Zomato Indian Food Delivery INR 4538 Crores this quarter.

Domestic food delivery business reported the highest ever gross order value (GOV) in the quarter under review, increasing by 37 percent to around INR 4,538 crore, compared to INR 3,315 crore in the previous quarter.

Zomato said its operational revenue increased by 22 percent to INR 844 crore in April-June, while net losses rose over 168 percent from the previous quarter to INR 360 crore, as the food delivery platform presented its maiden quarterly earnings as a public company on Tuesday.

While INR 806 crore of operational revenue came from India, revenue of INR 31 crore was logged from the UAE, and the balance from other markets.

Zomato said its adjusted revenue — which is a combination of revenue from operations and customer delivery charges — increased 26 percent to INR 1,160 crore in the June quarter, compared to around Rs 920 crore in the March quarter.

“Revenue growth was largely on the back of growth in our core food delivery business, which continued to grow despite the severe Covid-19 wave starting April,” said cofounder and chief executive Deepinder Goyal in the company’s filings to the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Zomato said the increase in losses is due “largely on account of non-cash Esop (employee stock ownership plan) expenses, which have increased meaningfully in Q1 of FY22 due to significant Esop grants made… pursuant to creation of a new Esop 2021 scheme.’

New Opening of 2021 | #6 Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, opening in second half of the year 2021

Kuwait’s largest shopping and entertainment destination, The Avenues, will welcome the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Kuwait later this year. Slated for an autumn debut, guests will be able to enjoy direct access to Avenues Mall, with more than 1,100 shops plus a 28-screen cinema. The portfolio of 200 rooms and suites will offer panoramic views of the Kuwait skyline, and guests will also be serviced by the 13,560 square foot Waldorf Spa and signature lobby lounge, Peacock Alley.

Eclat Insights | How To Teach So People Learn

The art historian Gustav Friedrich Waagen on how to teach so people learn: "First delight, then instruct."

If you wanted to teach magic, you would want to start with a magic trick. Not any magic trick, a trick that may seem simple to someone who does not want to learn magic, but to the eager student, that trick should be awesome, awe-inspiring. It sets the tone for what's coming.

Having delighted someone, you have their heart's attention, not just the mind.

Why is this relevant to Hospitality & Service Industries

• The concept of inseparability in service means that one cannot separate the production of service from the consumption of it.

• Front Line staff training is therefore critical for any exceptional service design and delivery.

• This insight will help you create better training programs for your teams.

• This can be particularly useful for managers that work with skill-oriented workers. You may find that you need to correct them, instruct them in the middle of their work and sometimes in front of their peers. This advice could do wonders for you.

Actionable Insights

Find something to say, do, show, tell, share that will delight them, then when you have their attention, instruct them.

Real-World Example

• Want to teach your team about welcoming guests? Don't start with a PowerPoint presentation in a dark room. Welcome them into the training room like you would welcome a guest!

Want to make this WOW?

• Give them a welcome drink or a treat! Or

• Welcome them in the local language Or

• Welcome them in their native language

As always, do share your implementation of this insight with us.

Brief About writer:

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

Zomato | Zomato's revenue grows to INR 844 crore as losses widen 168% for April-June quarter

Zomato's revenue grows to INR 844 crore as losses widen 168% for April-June quarter

While INR 806 crore of operational revenue came from India, revenue of INR 31 crore was logged from the UAE, and the balance from other markets.

zomato said its operational revenue increased by 22 percent to INR 844 crore in April-June, while net losses rose over 168 percent from the previous quarter to INR 360 crore, as the food delivery platform presented its maiden quarterly earnings as a public company on Tuesday.

While INR 806 crore of operational revenue came from India, revenue of INR 31 crore was logged from the UAE, and the balance from other markets.

Zomato said its adjusted revenue — which is a combination of revenue from operations and customer delivery charges — increased 26 percent to INR 1,160 crore in the June quarter, compared to around Rs 920 crore in the March quarter.

“Revenue growth was largely on the back of growth in our core food delivery business, which continued to grow despite the severe Covid-19 wave starting April,” said cofounder and chief executive Deepinder Goyal in the company’s filings to the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Zomato said the increase in losses is due “largely on account of non-cash Esop (employee stock ownership plan) expenses, which have increased meaningfully in Q1 of FY22 due to significant Esop grants made… pursuant to creation of a new Esop 2021 scheme.’

The Gurgaon-based company, which listed successfully on the BSE last month, reported total losses of INR 134 crore in the March quarter, with revenue at INR 692 crore. In the June quarter, it earned revenue of INR 266 crore, with losses of nearly INR 100 crore.

Zomato’s market capitalisation stood at a little over INR 98,000 crore as of Tuesday, as the stock closed at INR 124.95, down by more than 4 percent.

Spike In Orders
The company said the domestic food delivery business reported the highest ever gross order value (GOV) in the quarter under review, increasing by 37 percent to around INR 4,538 crore, compared to INR 3,315 crore in the previous quarter.

GOV is the total monetary value of all food delivery orders placed on Zomato India, including taxes, customer delivery charges, gross of all discounts, excluding tips.

National Geographic has teamed up with Michelin Starred Chef Vikas Khanna to delight viewers with something special this Independence Day

What's cooking between National Geographic and Chef Vikas Khanna ahead of Independence Day? 

National Geographic, a brand known for its rich legacy of authentic and impactful storytelling has teamed up with Michelin Starred Chef Vikas Khanna to delight viewers with something special this Independence Day. In a special teaser, Vikas Khanna can be seen cooking a tricolor dish as a homage to the ancestors. The dish truly represents the essence of India with its vibrant colors.

Born in Amritsar, Vikas Khanna had the disability of misaligned legs. He endured overwhelming obstacles to achieve his dreams and become a successful Michelin-starred chef. Today, he is known to many as India’s favourite Chef and one of the best-known Indians in the world of food.

NEWS | Chhattisgarh Tourism to formulate guidelines for homestay and water-based tourism soon

hese guidelines are being planned to make tourism development in the state more inclusive, community-oriented and sustainable.

Chhattisgarh Tourism will formulate guidelines for homestays and water-based tourism activities in the state soon. These guidelines are being planned to make tourism development in the state more inclusive, community-oriented and sustainable.

Informing this at an e-conclave on tourism organized by the Industry Chamber, FICCI, Shubhda Chaturvedi, Head - Communications and Marketing, Chhattisgarh Tourism has said that the tourism board is working with self-help groups in the state to ensure community participation in the tourism activities in Chhattisgarh so that the benefits of tourism development can reach the rural communities and deliver gainful employment opportunities.

Chaturvedi informed that the state tourism board is working closely with the agencies like ToFTigers and Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI) to advance the potential in eco-tourism and agri-tourism in Chhattisgarh.

As far as connectivity and accessibility are concerned, she said that the state is well connected by road, rail, and air. The opening of airports at Jagdalpur and Bilaspur, in addition to the Raipur airport, has considerably improved the accessibility to the state in the last year, she said.

Source

IHCL reports Q1 revenue from operations at INR 345 cr; losses at INR 301.5 cr

IHCL Board approves raising of long term funds not exceeding INR 250 crore by way of secured or unsecured long term financing.

Tata Group backed Indian Hotel Company's board has approved raising of long term funds not exceeding Rs 250 crore by way of secured or unsecured long term financing in one or a combination of external commercial borrowings, foreign currency borrowings, non-convertible debentures, term loans or through any other debt instrument in one or more tranches on Monday.

At a board meeting, the board also authorised a committee to determine and approve the quantum, timing and nature of terms and conditions of the instrument to be issued.

IHCL reported revenue from operations of INR 344.55 crore for the quarter ended June this year, up from INR 144 crore in the corresponding period of the last fiscal. On a quarter on quarter basis though, it reported a 44 per cent fall in revenues.

It reported losses of INR 301.5 crore down from INR 313 crore in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, losses were up by 102 per cent.

IHCL said business for the quarter was severely impacted on account of the second wave and the chain witnessed softer revenues due to partial or complete lockdowns in several states of India.

Hyatt News | Thompson Hollywood Debuts in the Heart of Los Angeles

The 190-Room Property Expands Thompson Hotels' West Coast Footprint with Interior Design by Tara Bernerd & Partners, Signature Dining Concepts from Acclaimed Chef Lincoln Carson, the Bar Lis Rooftop Lounge and Beyond

(CHICAGO)  August 9, 2021 –– Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) is proud to announce the debut of Thompson Hollywood, the luxury lifestyle hotel situated on Wilcox Avenue near Hollywood and Vine. A dynamic mix of global sophistication, hyper-local immersion and intuitive service, the prime location embodies the Thompson Hotels brand’s promise to provide guests with the ultimate “in-the-know” experience at the refined edge of travel. The new 11-story hotel features 190 mid-century-inspired guestrooms, including 16 suites, a sophisticated feature dining concept from acclaimed LA-based chef Lincoln Carson and Bar Lis, a destination rooftop lounge and pool with unparalleled city views. Sure to be a gathering spot for tasteful travelers and the eclectic Hollywood community alike, the much-anticipated project is owned by Relevant Group in collaboration with Steinberg Hart for architecture and interior design by Tara Bernerd & Partners, with Ten Five Hospitality overseeing food and beverage.

Thoughtfully designed by renowned London-based interior architecture studio Tara Bernerd & Partners, the 11-floor hotel innovatively combines the hallmarks of timeless elegance with a raw industrial edge to create a unique atmosphere that is relaxing and inspiring, familiar and new.  The overall design is bold and confident, drawing upon the West Coast Modernist movement and a dash of Hollywood glamour as inspirations toseamlessly blend for a contemporary and elegant approach throughout.

Upon entry, a trellis-covered walkway beckons guests to a lobby adorned in mid-toned timber and teeming with verdant greenery, forming a tranquil and welcoming haven upon arrival. A spectacular custom terrazzo floor awaits guests underfoot, featuring an intricate metal inlay pattern that perfectly complements the elegant mid-century and contemporary furniture, bespoke Tara Bernerd & Partners rugs and inviting terrazzo reception desk. The convenient lobby bar - topped with a striking retro-green onyx - serves up coffee, cocktails or casual bites for those coming, going or staying to socialize, all with the laid-back hospitality and inclusive spirit emblematic of the Thompson Hotels brand’s desire to ensure everyone who walks through the doors feels more like a resident than a guest.    

Makeover | Hyatt Regency Chennai turns 10 and is getting a makeover

Tarun Seth, general manager of the hotel is confident that by mid 2022, the city will get a more contemporary property.

The Hyatt Regency Chennai turned ten this weekend and ETHospitaltyWorld spoke with Tarun Seth, the general manager of the property on the occasion.

“I arrived when the hotel was not yet seven years old and now, it’s turning 10 in front of me. I'll be witnessing the celebration of the 10th year. Hyatt Regency Chennai was the first Hyatt in south India. It obviously makes this occasion even more special. We've been able to not just establish ourselves in this decade but been able to set up our footprint in a very formidable manner in the region,” Seth said.

Over these 10 years, the hotel had been a preferred choice for instance during sporting events, he said, with a large room inventory, second only to the ITC Grand Chola, and around 30,000 square feet of banqueting space. The hotel was the base for Sunriser Hyderabad this year, he said.

Large banquet space also made them ideal for the MICE business in Chennai, especially medical conferences in the city, he added. “Chennai obviously does not enjoy the highest rate amongst all Metro—it possibly comes last. But travel has really begun well, in fact, in the month of July occupancies around this part of the city in overall comm set has come to about close to 45 to 50 percent. We as a hotel did almost close to 48 percent occupancy in the last month and I think looking at August we might start doing 55 to 60 percent occupancy, which is only 15 to 20 percent less than our pre Covid levels,” Seth said on business this year.

While staycations continue and remain a bedrock of business during the weekends, small businesses have also started to travel—those with local negotiated contracts, in and around the city. Business is coming in from Coimbatore, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, markets which have opened up for them, he said, adding that some medical companies have also started having smaller conferences, all within the Covid rules.

"The hotel is actually sprucing up all its rooms. And by mid 2022, the work to upgrade the rooms and interiors will be complete. So, by next June you will possibly have 325 very contemporary rooms completely renewed from inside. That's a very big takeaway that in the 10th year, the promoters have really gone all out to invest more money into the property," Seth added in conclusion.

source

Dubai's hotel sector is gearing up for Expo 2020

The world's largest and most impactful event ever to take place between OCtober, 2021, and 31st March, 2022

Dubai's hotel sector is gearing up for Expo 2020 Dubai, the world's largest and most impactful event ever to take place in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, from 1st October, 2021, to 31st March, 2022, while recovery from the COVID-19 is gaining momentum globally and the UAE is getting ready to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of its formation.

With Expo 2020’s theme of ''Connecting Minds, Creating the Future'', as well as one or more of its sub-themes of Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability, Dubai will welcome visitors from every corner of the globe to join the making of a new world, as it brings together the planet in one place to reimagine tomorrow.

The United Arab Emirates services and business sectors, spearheaded by the hotel, travel and tourism industry, have been working tirelessly to make visitors to Expo enjoy a safe, inspiring and unforgettable experience during the six-month world event.

Wego, which specialises in travel services and online reservations, stated that various countries are awaiting the start of Expo 2020 Dubai. The company revealed that it witnessed, through its website, about 533,000 searches during July, on flights and hotels for the period in which this event will be held.

This indicates the increasing demand that Dubai is witnessing, and the rapid recovery of the business tourism sector, noting that in light of the preparations for Expo 2020 Dubai, hotels have begun to allocate packages and extended stay offers specifically for visitors to the exhibition, the company stated.

Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) revealed that until May 2021, there were 128,545 hotel rooms in Dubai. There were 715 hotel establishments, including 134 five-star hotels.

Dubai Tourism's statistics showed that the emirate welcomed 2.06 million international overnight visitors from January to May 2021.

The Emirate has one of the highest number of hotel rooms in the world, according to a study by travel site Insider Monkey. Dubai has 100,000 hotel rooms available for visiting guests.

Dubai has hotels such as Burj Al Arab and The Address and hosts seven hotels from the 12 tallest in the world including the Gevora Hotel (356.3 metres), JW Marriott Marquis Dubai (355m), SLS Dubai Hotel and Residences (336m), Rose Rayhaan by Rotana (333m), Burj Al Arab (321m), Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel (309m) and Millennium Plaza (294m).

The Dubai hotel sector is building more hotels despite the challenge and impact of COVID-19 on global tourism and travel.

Expo 2020 Dubai will be the largest cultural gathering in the world and will provide inspiring experiences for 182 days. More than 200 entities will contribute to these experiences, including countries, multilateral organisations, companies, and educational institutions, as well as millions of visitors, to create a version that is the largest and most diverse.

Source

New Opening of 2021 | #5 Jumeirah Muscat Bay opening in second half of the year 2021

The first Jumeirah hotel in Oman will open in Muscat late in 2021. In addition to 206 suites and rooms, the hotel includes a Talise spa along with top bars and restaurants for dining experiences and sunset drinks. The hotel’s rooftop signature restaurant and lounge also offers views over the Oman Gulf and Al Hajar Mountains.

Trends | National Digital Tourism Mission may be reality soon

Arvind Singh, Secretary — Tourism, Government of India

announced that a task force had been formed and initial deliberations begun on a mission intended to connect all stakeholders in the tourism ecosystem digitally.

The National Digital Tourism Mission for India may soon become a reality as Arvind Singh, Secretary — Tourism, Government of India said his Ministry had started initial deliberations on the same at an e-conclave on travel and tourism organized by FICCI on August 6, 2021.

The Tourism Ministry had formed a Task Force for the National Digital Tourism Mission which had already had its first virtual meeting this week.

The Tourism Secretary said that the Ministry had started the digitization process during the Covid19 pandemic itself by launching NIDHI and SAATHI projects. He said that the Ministry has started expanding the NIDHI system by bringing tour operators, travel agents, etc. also on the platform. Singh said that the National Digital Tourism Mission was intended to connect stakeholders in the tourism eco-system digitally in the same lines as the National Health Mission.

Source