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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NEWS | FSSAI introduces new logo for ‘vegan’

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

That is why Netflix created 'Play Something'

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

• A brand new series or film,

• A series or film you’re already watching,

• A series or film on your list, or

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

WHY IS IT RELEVANT TO THE HOSPITALITY & SERVICE INDUSTRIES

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

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

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

ACTIONABLE INSIGHTS

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

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

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

REAL-WORLD EXAMPLE

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

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

Want to make this WOW?

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

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

Prabhjot

Bedi

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

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

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

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

Make it stand out

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inspirational | Chef Rohan Wadke

Celebrations | Four Point by Sheraton Dehradun celebrated International Houskeeping week

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

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

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

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

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

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

First look at some of the dishes

Lamb Shank

Gnocchi with braised asparagus

Crunchy Chocolate mousse cake

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Want to work in the Maldives

Appointment | Nihat Yucel joins Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano as GM

Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano has appointed Nihat Yucel as general manager. He has 22 years of experience with Four Seasons and holds a master’s degree in tourism from Istanbul University and a post-graduate degree from Florida International University.

Yucel started working with Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul in 1999 in the food and beverage department.

Then in 2007, he became F&B director on the pre-opening team for the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus. Three years later he switched to director of rooms.  After two years, he was promoted to hotel manager overseeing both departments.

Yucel them moved to Four Seasons Resort Seychelles in 2014 as resort manager before returning as hotel manager at both Four Seasons on the Bosphorus and at Sultanahmet.

Speaking about his career, he said: “I like the time to connect with people.” 

Outside of the hotel world, he’s a big football fan and follows Galatassaray in Turkey. He also played football professionally in the second division of the Turkish football league.  

Four Seasons said he is a wonderful man, a compassionate leader and dedicated toelevated guest service and employee care and wellbeing.  

Appointment | Souffian Zaeraoui appointed cluster GM for three Accor hotels in Dubai

Souffian Zaeraoui is the new cluster general manager for Novotel, Ibis and Adagio Al Barsha hotels. The Accor properties have 1,144 between them.

Zaeraoui has worked for Accor for 14 years, previously serving as hotel D]director for the same cluster until 2018.

A French-Moroccan national, Zaeraoui brings a wealth of experience to the role and will oversee the upcoming transformation of the newly designed Ibis guest rooms for Ibis Al Barsha. The property is the first Ibis hotel in the UAE to roll out the modern designs.

He said: “I couldn’t be happier to be moving back to the Al Barsha cluster, especially in this landmark year of Expo 2020 and the UAE Golden Jubilee. I’m thrilled that I can use all my experience at such an exciting time to take these iconic hotels to greater heights and achieve the desired success with the team.”

He moves from Novotel & Adagio Abu Dhabi Al Bustan and he holds an MBA in International Hospitality Management, IMHI from ESSEC Business School in Paris.

Zaeraoui began his career in France with Marriott and Sofitel Hotels in Paris, before heading up F&B at Novotel Cardiff Centre Wales.

He was the opening operations manager at Pullman Gurgaon Central Park in India before moving to Al Barsha the first time.

Appointment | Novotel Chandigarh Tribune Chowk appoints Ashish Battoo as General Manager

The 120-room hotel is slated to open on 1st October, 2021

Novotel Chandigarh Tribune Chowk has appointed Ashish Battoo as its General Manager. He has over 19 years of experience with international and Indian brands, including The Hyatt and The Oberoi Group of Hotels and Resorts.

In his most recent assignment, Battoo was associated with The Golkonda Hotel, Hyderabad as General Manager before deciding to pursue his own venture in 2019.

He holds a Degree in Hotel Management from Garden City College, Bangalore.

New Opening | Hard Rock Cafe® Brings Double The Magic To Hyderabad With Second Outpost In Hitech City

Mr. Mani - Manager, Mr. Naveen, General Manager. Ms. Dristi - Sr Marketing Manager, Mr. Kunal - Director, Operations,hef - Cyrus,Ms. Akanksha - Asst Director, Sales & Marketing (left to Right)

Hard Rock Cafe® Brings Double The Magic To Hyderabad With Second Outpost In Hitech City

Hyderabad: September 21st, 2021: Hard Rock® introduces the brand's one-of-a-kind blend of music, entertainment, iconic merchandise, and authentic American fare to Hyderabad’s tech hub – Hitech City, with its second outpost in town, as the brand celebrates 12 years in the city! The Rock ’n’ roll-themed chain with a high-energy vibe, serving burgers & American classics will cater to the tech crowd of Hyderabad and local visitors, who will experience Hard Rock's new design style and latest technology at Hard Rock Cafe® Hyderabad Hitech City, which is located at the Ground Floor at Salarpuria Sattva, Knowledge City. This opening is special as the brand also celebrates its 50th anniversary globally this year.

Customers of Hard Rock Cafe at Hitech City will be able to enjoy fresh and high-quality authenticAmerican items from Hard Rock's most extensive menu innovation in the company's history that features many new offerings. Guests can indulge insignature dishes such as Legendary Steak Burgers, The Original Legendary Burger, The Big Cheeseburger and more. The Starters & Shareables include the famous Jumbo Combo, One Night in Bangkok Shrimp, Wings, All-American Sliders, Classic Nachos and more. An extensive selection of Salads, Sandwiches & Specialty Entrees will also be on offer to tantalize taste buds such as the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, California-Style Cobb Salad, Baby Back Ribs, and Famous Fajitas, just to name a few. Additionally, a new local inspired Indo-fusion menu created by Chef Cyrus Irani put the spotlight on hyperlocal dishes such as Fiesta Platter, Hyderabadi Biryani, Fish & Chips, South of the Border Cottage Cheese among others. Don’t forget to add a zing to your dining experience by trying one of our many signature beverages including: All new Boozy Milkshakes, cocktails such as Rockin’ Fresh Rita, Rock House Rum Punch and Hurricane.

Spread over 8897 square-feet with a capacity of over 194 seats, the space promises the best of indoor & outdoor dining experiences for a city that loves both alike for dining in & out at different times of the day. The outdoor seating area is lined with tropical landscape along its periphery and a gigantic photo-opportunity in the form of a street art mural, curated by local talent, set alongside the outdoor bar.

The indoor section boasts of a stunning bar counter on a raised platform, and a striking ceiling that needs a special mention since the same has been meticulously crafted with a combination of coffers and metal baffles – which add immense character to the overall energy of the space. There exists a 4,000 Sq Ft of fully air-conditioned indoor space with a sizable podium at the nucleus of the space to house live performances on one side, and an exciting combination of a cafe format of Hard Rock, known as Constant Grind, along with a Rock Shop on the other side. The Constant Grind, a coffee-shop by Hard Rock International, will open its second exclusive shop ever at Hard Rock Cafe Hitech City. It will serve freshly brewed gourmet coffee to its guests; one can work remotely from this space and enjoy a latte, espresso, or a refreshing iced drink to go with freshly baked cookies, all-day breakfast, sinful smoothies and sandwiches. A special attraction here is a Gelato Bar for our little rockers and families.The new Hard Rock Cafe at Hitech City will create over 65 direct jobs and several others by way of indirect services, within the city at a much-needed time.

Memorabilia from Hard Rock's iconic collection adorns Hard Rock Cafe Hitech City’s walls, including items from legendary musicians like a belt worn bylead guitarist, Slash, of Guns N’ Roses, a pair of fancy boots donned by Elton John, Rihanna’s metal bikini and accessories, a long-sleeved cat costume worn by Lady Gaga, among many others. Some more star pieces include a Harley Davidson hat worn by Elvis Presley, and a brown pinstripe vest by Will.I.Am of Black Eyed Peas -

The Hyderabad second outpost’s Rock Shop® will offer music-inspired items, as well as customized collectible Hard Rock Cafe merchandise. Fans can acquire exclusive HyderabadHitech City-specific merchandise and much-coveted signature pins at this retail location.

"Opening a second outpost in Hyderabad during such unprecedented times has been a huge challenge for our partners, and we feel extremely proud to finally be able to announce the opening of this iconic cafe in the beautiful Nizam city of Hyderabad," said Anibal Fernandez, Vice President of franchise operations, Hard Rock International.

We once again look forward to welcoming our Hard Rock fans in Hyderabad, India, in a "SAFE + SOUND” environment.

Those looking to dine at Hard Rock Cafe Hitech City can make a reservation by

To purchase Hard Rock Cafe merchandise, visit the online Rock Shop at https://shop.hardrock.com.

For additional information on the Hard Rock Cafe brand, visit www.hardrockcafe.com/.

About Hard Rock®:

Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in 68

countries spanning 241 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®,Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020,an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Claptonguitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabiliaat more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2021, Hard Rockwas awarded the Top Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry by Forbes,designated as a U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal and namedthe top performing hotel brand in J.D. Power’s North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study for thethird consecutive year. In 2020, Hard Rock was honored as one of Forbes Magazine’s Best Employers forDiversity and a Top Employer for Women. Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos also received first place ranking inthe 2020 Casino Gaming Executive Satisfaction Survey conducted by Bristol Associates Inc. and SpectrumGaming Group. Hard Rock destinations are located in international gateway cities, including its two mostsuccessful flagship properties in Florida and home to the world’s first Guitar Hotel® in South Florida,Global Gaming’s 2020 Property of the Year. The brand is owned by HRI parent entity The Seminole Tribeof Florida. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.comorshop.hardrock.com.

Appointment | Hilton appoints cluster director of revenue for four Ras Al Khaimah properties

Hilton has appointed Abhishek Lakhotia as cluster director of revenue for its DoubleTree and Hampton by Hilton Ras Al Khaimah cluster.

In his new role, Lakhotia spearheads strategies to generate further revenue for the cluster, which consists the 723-room resort, DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island, Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island, DoubleTree by Hilton Ras Al Khaimah and DoubleTree by Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Corniche Residences.

Before joining the team, he has held various positions including group director of revenue management and complex director of revenue management.

Lakhotia said: “I’m delighted to be in Ras Al Khaimah to lead a fantastic team in revenue for the cluster. This is an exciting time for us, especially with the recent news around Ras Al Khaimah investing AED500 million on 20 sustainable tourism projects. We expect to see tourism grow within the next 12 months and we look forward to welcoming more guests to our one-of-a-kind resorts and hotels.”

The new team member has a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality & Tourism Administration from the Swiss Asian School of Hotel Management, and a post-graduate diploma in Hotel Management from Les Roches School of Hotel Management.

Eduard Jimenez, Cluster Commercial Director said: “We are honored to have Abhishek Lakhotia onboard and we wish him all the success in this new role. With his extensive knowledge and experience along with the ability to detect rising trends in the hospitality industry, Abhishek brings invaluable insights to the role and we are thrilled to have him on the team.”