NEWS | Delhi NCR indicates strong travel demand as per a study by Thomas Cook India

Delhi NCR indicates strong travel demand as per a study by Thomas Cook India 60% Month-on-Month growth 

Approx. 290% surge in Domestic Holidays; 55% Outbound* Festive & Winter Season is driving positive recovery trends at 65% of pre-pandemic levels

Family Vacations, Groups of Friends, Honeymoon Travel driving demand from Delhi  

Delhi, October 2021: Delhi features as a top source market for Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company. Lockdown fatigue and pent-up demand is resulting in strong travel desire from Delhites – Thomas Cook India has been witnessing a robust 60% month-on-month increase since re-opening in June 2021. A surge in demand for the upcoming Festive & Winter Season, Expo 2020 Dubai, and honeymoon travel due to marriage season in North is powering travel growth from Delhi. Thomas Cook India reports that the demand is back to 65% of pre-pandemic levels overall: domestic travel at an impressive 290%; international at 55% (acquisition data Sept 2021 vs Sept 2019). Maldives, Switzerland, France, Russia, Spain, Egypt are the top destinations, while Expo 2020 Dubai is seeing a brisk demand currently. Additionally, Delhi is also witnessing a strong demand for overseas education travel and Thomas Cook India has delivered well on student travel to USA and Canada with quarantine packages.

Thomas Cook India’s extensive network covers 5 owned/franchise outlets in Delhi (Connaught Place, Noida, Greater Kailash, Punjabi Bagh, Netaji Subhash Place, Kohat Enclave) and a total of 13 outlets across Delhi NCR, including Gurgaon, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Meerut.

Delhi NCR Travel Trends:

Thomas Cook India’s survey has revealed insightful consumer behaviors & travel trends for Delhi

• 62% prefer international destinations; favourites include Maldives, Dubai, Switzerland, France  

• 78% prefer Domestic holidays; Kashmir, Leh-Ladakh, Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand; with North East and Andamans now seeing strong demand

*(*data not equal to 100% as multiple choice options were provided to customers)

Top Experiences: 

Delhites enjoy outdoor adventure trips like Biking in Ladakh, Rafting in Uttaranchal ,Kashmir, Rajasthan, South India; mountain destinations and experiences like ATV rides/a picnic lunch in an apple orchard; Andamans and beach destinations with water sports like sea karting, snorkeling, etc. Winter holidays with festivities of Christmas markets in Switzerland & France or Russia’s Lapland & Northern Lights, Nile cruises, hot air ballooning in Cappadocia (Turkey), and Expo 2020 Dubai are top favorites 

Key segments driving demand: families, millennials/young professionals, honeymooners, business & b-leisure, students and spiritual tourism.

Travel Companions: Customers from Delhi enjoy travelling with family or multi-generational family (60%); as a group of friends/colleagues (10%); couples (25%); solo (5%)

EXPO 2020 Dubai is catalyzing growth for Q4 2021

And to accelerate demand, as authorized ticket re-sellers (India), Thomas Cook India has launched very special deals: Rs 52,000 (air-inclusive holidays) and Rs 28,000 (land only). 

Special Offers for the Festive Season: Thomas Cook India has announced attractive deals like Buy One Get One – Companion Free across select India & International holidays; an Early Bird offer of Rs 60,000 per family on select Europe Tours; Taj Vouchers valued at Rs 10,000 on India Extravaganza holidays – an approx. 10 day extensive itinerary for in-depth exploration.

Mr. Romil Pant, Senior Vice President, Leisure Travel, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “Delhi continues to be one of our best-performing markets and contributes significantly to our Holidays business –international and domestic. This year we have seen high demand for travel within India, Delhites preferring outdoor adventure and mountain locations like Himachal Pradesh, Leh-Ladakh, Uttarakhand and North East; our bike trips are doing exceptionally well. While Maldives has been Delhi’s top destination, we are seeing a strong surge for Europe, Turkey, along with the Expo 2020 Dubai across families and business/trade associations. 

I am excited to announce our special offers and discounts on our Festive Holidays for Dussehra and Diwali. This is my personal invitation to Delhites to come and visit our branches and plan a truly memorable holiday with family and friends for the festive and winter season ahead.”

He added, “All our packages/ trips are equipped with TravShield - comprehensive Safety Commitment & Assured Safe Travel Program in association with Apollo Clinics:

• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings • Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation • Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor on Call • Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers • Covid negative / Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff • Sanitized Rooms & Vehicles.”

New Opening | Meliá to Open on Thailand’s Mai Khao Beach

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, a 30-suite and 70-villa resort on eight acres of Phuket’s northwestern coastline overlooking the sky-blue Andaman Sea is slated to open in December.

Meliá to Open on Thailand’s Mai Khao Beach

Leading Spanish hotel group partners with Phuket Villa Group to launch landmark resort

PHUKET, Thailand (Oct. 14, 2021) – Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, a 30-suite and 70-villa resort on eight acres of Phuket’s northwestern coastline overlooking the sky-blue Andaman Sea is slated to open in December.

Fronting Phuket’s longest stretch of sand, the resort on Mai Khao Beach is close to an array of attractions such as Sirinat National Park, Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, and Wat Phra Thong temple. Phuket International Airport is a 15-minute drive.

Authorities plan to open Thailand to fully vaccinated tourists from countries deemed low-risk from November 1.

Launched by Meliá Hotels International and owned by Thailand’s leading residential real estate developer Phuket Villa Group, the five-star resort is part of a roll-out of the Meliá brand in key destinations across Thailand including Koh Samui, Chiang Mai and Bangkok.

The new resort’s saltwater swimming pools, private villa pools, a reflection pond with sunken seating areas, water gardens, vertical falls and irrigation mist evoke a restorative atmosphere. The overarching design pays tribute to contemporary aesthetics and traditional Thai touches.

The contemporary, light-filled and spacious Mediterranean-inspired accommodations comprise 30 one-bedroom suites and 70 one-bedroom villas that each cater for up to two adults and two children. All feature outdoor bathtubs, open-air showers and vast outdoor terraces.

The 78sqm suites are complemented by cabanas and the 85sqm one-bedroom villas have private plunge pools. Fifteen “wellness villas” feature an open-air Vitamin C shower, daily massage, ultrasonic essential oil diffuser, GermGuardian air purifier, Tempur-Pedic pillows, fit ball and yoga mat.

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao will explore a diverse culinary landscape from four outlets. Near the beach pool with its cabanas and sun lounges, chic Gaia Beach Club is “the place to be”. Drawing on Meliá’s Spanish origins, Gaia celebrates Spain’s famed gastronomy by serving Mediterranean and fusion cuisine from an open kitchen and an imaginative cocktail selection from a long bar.

Elegant all-day dining restaurant SASA specialises in Southeast Asian cuisine. A warm and intimate setting adorned with timber finishes, SASA offers casual fine dining by night. Elyxr Café serves freshly squeezed juices and locally brewed liquors.

Shaded by a broad spectrum of native plants, the resort's design deploys a neutral palette of colours as a complement to Mai Khao’s sandy shore. Its high ceilings, floor-to-roof glass panels and decorative metal screens take advantage of the natural surrounds and abundance of sunshine.

At 300sqm, Meliá’s signature YHI Spa is home to five treatment rooms. In addition to its extensive menu of massages, facials, body scrubs and wraps, spa therapists also provide poolside and in-villa treatments.

The fitness center is equipped with treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and weights machines. The kids club Kidsdom has workshops to keep youngsters entertained.

An idyllic venue for weddings and events, the resort’s conference facilities include a grand ballroom and two additional multi-function rooms. The resort’s event planners offer customized catering and mini mindfulness sessions.

“Through our partnership with Spain’s leading hotel group, we are thankful that we can significantly contribute to Phuket’s recovery in the wake of COVID-19 by creating much-needed jobs for the local tourism sector and setting a new benchmark for hospitality on Thailand’s largest island,” said Mr Maetapong Upatising, Phuket Villa Group's Managing Director.

One Bedroom Villa with Private Pool

“With its breathtaking beauty and serenity, there isn’t a more desirable place to be on the water than Mai Khao Beach,” said Ms Magdalena Martorell, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s General Manager. “We’re looking incredibly forward to unveiling a bleisure resort defined by a distinct focus on customer wellbeing with Meliá’s sunny Spanish hospitality and passion for service.”

Awards | Anantara Spa Scoops Wins at 2021 World Spa Awards

Anantara Spa Scoops Wins at 2021 World Spa Awards

A total of 9 best in class accolades were awarded to Anantara Spa around the world at the 2021 World Spa Awards.

Highlights include honors for new Anantara properties, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, and Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas awarded Malaysia's Best Resort Spa 2021 and Mauritius's Best Resort Spa 2021 respectively.

In the Middle East, Anantara Spa reigned supreme with top awards for Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, Anantara Spa at Banana Island Resort Doha, Anantara Spa at Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel and Anantara Spa at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.

Moreover, in Africa, Anantara Spa at Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort and Anantara Spa at The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara was awarded fantastic results.

New Opening | Minor Hotels To Debut in Egypt with Oaks Hotels Resorts and Suites

Minor Hotels is pleased to announce its upcoming debut in a new market, Egypt, with the construction of a new build Oaks property.

Scheduled to open in 2025, Oaks Egypt New Capital Apartments & Suites will be located in the heart of the Egyptian New Administrative Capital and will begin construction early next year.

The property will bring a total of approximately 400 apartments and suites to the market in the fast-developing new administrative and financial capital, a short drive from Cairo.

Guests will enjoy access to extensive facilities including multiple restaurants, a lobby lounge, a spa and gym, in addition to meeting and co-working spaces. The property will also have a rooftop pool deck for guests and residents.

Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites provides a home away from home for both savvy corporate travellers and leisure tourists alike.

Maldives News | Dusit Thani Maldives Opens Sustainable Chef’s Garden Emphasizing Locally Grown, Fresh Produce

Dusit Thani Maldives, a luxury resort on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, has further committed to its CSR and sustainable pledges by opening a carefully constructed Chef’s Garden growing a bounty of fresh ingredients for its award-winning restaurants.  

Designed and built by gardener Mr Ramesh Khadka alongside Executive Chef Richard Thompson, the raised-bed construction was selected for its many advantages over a ground- based garden, including the need for approximately 50% less soil.  

Gardner, Mr Ramesh Khadka

The beds are built from styrofoam boxes, which retain moisture and enable gardeners to reduce watering by up to 60%. The elevated height of the beds prevents local trees from inserting feeler shoots and hijacking nutrients from the budding produce, the variety of which can be expanded with a quick turnaround after each harvest.  

The garden ensures Chef Thompson will have direct access to nutritious fresh ingredients such as tomatoes, corn, peppers, Chinese cabbage, aubergine, pak choi and cucumber; a plethora of herbs like rosemary, Greek oregano, coriander and mint; and flavourful additions including Thai chillies, local chillies and lemongrass, which will take a starring role in the Royal Thai cuisine at Benjarong restaurant.  

Besides the garden, a high production hydroponics system features 218 cups for growing leafy vegetables and requires only 500 litres of water every eight weeks. Chef Thompson was inspired to work with the engineering team to build the beds and even craft the hydroponic cups.  

“I’m so excited for all our guests to have the chance to visit and personally see our beautiful garden,” he said. “We’re also in the process of setting up a deep culture system to maximise our limited space and grow even larger varieties of vegetables.”  

On October 16, guests and visitors will have the opportunity to explore the garden when the resort celebrates World Food Day. Participants will be invited to learn more about the produce, the hydroponic structure, how it functions, and the reasons behind its construction. With guidance from Chef Thomspon, they will also be able to harvest fresh leaves and vegetables and take part in a tasting of homemade bruschetta.  

General Manager Thomas Weber expressed his excitement about the project: “I’m thrilled to see the success of the garden and can’t wait for our guests to enjoy this experience and the many other CSR activities we offer.”  

Source

New Opening | VITSKamats Group launches 'VITS The Somnath Gateway' in the pilgrim town of Somnath

VITSKamats Group launches 'VITS The Somnath Gateway' in the pilgrim town of Somnath

Hoping to cash in on the growth potential of spiritual getaways in India, VITS Kamats Group has launched VITS The Somnath Gateway in the temple town of Somnath. Located in close proximity to the Somnath temple, it offers a peaceful abode for pilgrims with all the necessary devotional settings. The hotel can be easily accessed from, NH 151 (Rajkot-Somnath Highway) Diu Airport, Rajkot Airport, and Somnath Railway Station making it an ideal choice for travelers in this region.

Announcing the launch, Abhijit Dey, Associate Vice President, VITS-Kamats Group said, “We are delighted to announce the launch of VITS The Somnath Gateway in the pilgrimage circuit of Somnath. The hotel offers the perfect setting for both business and leisure travelers with places of interest like the Somnath Jyotirlinga temple, Somnath beach, and museum located in close proximity. While business travellers can enjoy some privacy in their rooms, as well as host meetings at our elegant conference rooms, leisure travelers can have a fun-filled time on Somnath Beach which is located close to our hotel”

VITS The Somnath Gateway consists of 70 elegantly designed rooms and suites, which are suited for solo travelers, pilgrims, families, as well as friends. All the rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with LED TV, Tea & coffee maker, hairdryer, wardrobe, comfortable mattresses, and a writing desk. The facilities include 24-hour room service, free WiFi internet, laundry services, and complimentary breakfast. The in-house KAMATS Original family Restaurant adds value to the hotel with its indigenous taste and flavor. Another Popular Multi-cuisine restaurant ‘Swad Sagar’ serves a delectable choice of Indian, Chinese, and Continental food

VITS The Somnath Gateway also gives the destination wedding lovers to ensure a memorable marriage on its sprawling lawn. As a perfect dream venue for weddings and any social gatherings, it provides award-winning cuisine from Kamats kitchen. Sprawling lan can accommodate 800-100 Guests at any point and have ample space for parking and other activities.

VITS Hotels is presently operational through 15 properties located in Mumbai, Thane, Upper Thane, Silvassa, Ankleshwar, Chakan, Aurangabad, Dwarka, Nanded, Morbi, Dapoli, Goa, Aurangabad (Purple Bed), Daman (Purple Bed), and Somnath. The Hotel chain presently has an inventory of 850+ rooms with a host of banqueting, conferencing, and restaurant facilities. As part of its expansion plans, VITS-Kamats Group will unveil the VITS hospitality experience in Vadodara, Dwarka (NCR), Surat, Baruch, Mumbai (Colaba), Daman, and Karad by 2021-22.

NEWS | Mumbai Central gets 48 Japanese-style 'pod hotels' for train travellers

Taking passenger comfort a notch higher, the railways has readied 48 sleeping pods or capsules at Mumbai Central station for rail users. They will be launched by the end of this month.

Of the pods, 30 have been tagged as ‘classic’, seven marked for women, 10 private and one for the differently abled. Located on the first floor of the station building, the pod room is spread over 3,000 sq ft. The cheapest pod will cost INR 999 for 12 hours.

“This unique facility will be a gamechanger in the way passengers travel in India by rail, especially those on business trips. The concept will best suit frequent travellers, backpackers, single travellers, corporate executives and study groups,” said a senior IRCTC official.

First popularised by Japan, a pod hotel features a large number of small bed-sized rooms. These hotels provide basic overnight accommodation for guests who do not require or cannot afford larger, more expensive rooms at conventional hotels. “A pod hotel is compact, packed full of comfortable design, attractive features and competitively priced. The beauty of the space is the absence of excess,” an official said.

Each pod user will have access to free Wi-Fi, luggage room, toiletries, shower rooms, washrooms in common areas, whereas inside the pod the guest can avail facilities like TV, a small locker, mirror, adjustable air conditioner and air filter vents, reading lights apart from interior light, mobile charging, smoke detectors and DND Indicators.

Explaining the categories, an official said, “While classic and ladies pods will comfortably fit for one guest, a private pod will also have a private space within the room, whereas the room for the differently abled will comfortably fit two guests with space for free wheelchair movement.”

Eclat Hospitality Awarded Hospitality Consultancy of the Year 2021 - India

www.eclathospitality.com

Appointment | Thierry Papillier joins Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya as executive chef

Stranger & Sons, the gin brand from Goa, launches with masterclasses

Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya has brought in Thierry Papillier as executive chef. He has spent the past 12 years with Four Seasons and will be the “culinary custodian” for the property, looking to elevate Kuwaiti dining as a whole.

Papillier joined Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza as executive sous chef before moving up to executive chef for the group in Mauritius.

He spent two years on the island archipelago before moving to Morocco as the executive chef for Four Seasons Casablanca. He stayed in the country for more than five, also working at Four Seasons in Marrakech.

Now in the Gulf, he said: “I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to relocate to Kuwait because I had heard great things about the dining scene here.

“Kuwait is blessed with an excellent collection of restaurants and while I am honored to be a part of that community, there comes a responsibility to keep our standards high and to deliver a memorable experience for our diners, whatever the occasion.”

Awards | Maldives Wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination and MMPRC Wins the Leading Tourist Board at World Travel Awards 2021

Maldives has won 4 prestigious awards in the Indian Ocean category in World Travel Awards - the most prestigious honors programme in global travel and tourism, established in 1993 and recognized globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.   

The awards won by Maldives this year includes   

- Indian Ocean's Leading Destination 2021: Maldives   

- Indian Ocean's Leading Beach Destination 2021: Maldives   

- Indian Ocean's Leading Dive Destination 2021: Maldives  

- Along with the awards listed above, Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation has been awarded the Indian Ocean’s Leading Tourist Board 2021.   

On winning the Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination Award and the Indian Ocean’s Leading Tourist Board 2021 for MMPRC, Thoyyib Mohamed, the Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation stated, “We are extremely proud to win the Indian Ocean Leading Destination Award from the World Travel Awards. It is a testament to all the hard work, effort, and the dedication of all in the Maldives tourism and travel trade, and I congratulate all stakeholders of the industry for this great achievement. Furthermore, it is a special honor and a matter of great pride that MMPRC has been selected as the Indian Ocean's Leading Tourist Board 2021. I congratulate our team at MMPRC. This is a great reward for the team, for the hard work and dedication they have shown during the extremely challenging times during the last one and half years. Thank you for voting for us. We hope to see you soon in the sunny side of life”.  

Despite the tremendous challenges experienced by the tourism industry during the pandemic, this year’s World Travel Awards is a remarkable testament to the love and extraordinary effort of tourists from around the world - World Travel Awards has reported a record number of visitor traffic and engagement from public voters. This shows that as travel resumes and the tourism sector recovers, the appetite for travel has never been bigger. Tourists are constantly seeking the very best tourism products from across the world. As Maldives has won four categories, these awards have never been more valuable in the marketing of the island nation as one of the safest and top travel destinations in the world.  

These prestigious wins at the 28th World Travel Awards will assist MMPRC in strengthening the brand image and further enhance brand presence globally. Maldives has secured multiple awards in various categories over the years including the World's Leading Airport Resort, World's Leading Beach Destination, World's Leading Honeymoon Resort, World's Most Romantic Resort and World's Leading Luxury Island Resort.  

The destination had also won the famed Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination award 13 times within the past 17 years.  

Source

Event | The Grape stomping & Cake mixing brunch at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre

October 2021: Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre today hosted their annual cake mixing & grape stomping brunch at the Hotel. The event was planned to welcome the advent of Christmas and New Year and usher in a season of good tidings and happiness.  The grape stomping began with much enthusiasm, with all guests soaking their feet in the barrels, set against the magnificent outdoor space. The participants were observed singing songs and vigorously stomping the grapes, clearly having a good time.

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre escorted guests to the mixing table which was beautifully arranged with Black currant, Golden Apricot, Rum Soaked Figs, Drunk Resins, Dates, Candied Orange Peel, Candied Ginger, Dry Cherries, etc. The invitees donned aprons, face masks, gloves, and caps, and armed themselves with bottles of liquor, ready to tackle the colorful mounds of dry fruits, nuts, and spices.

All of the guests enthusiastically joined the chef's crew in mixing fruits and nuts with liquor and spirits in preparation for the impending Christmas dessert. They also ate a delicious brunch prepared by the chefs and danced to the beats of a DJ and a live band.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre said, “We have organized this grape stomping & cake mixing ceremony to usher in the festive season. This is just the beginning of the oncoming eventful festive season & celebrations at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre.  This is a great opportunity for us to bond with our guests and is always a pleasure to see our guests participating in the festivities and enjoying the sumptuous offerings and having a great time. ”

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.

Appointment | Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik announces the appointment of Mr. Biswa Ranjan Mohapatra as Director of Rooms

Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik announces the appointment of Mr. Biswa Ranjan Mohapatra as Director of Rooms

October 2021: Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik announces the appointment of Biswa Ranjan Mohapatra as Director of Rooms. A seasoned hospitality professional with over 15 years of experience, Biswa brings a

a wealth of knowledge and skills of the housekeeping and front office functions to his current role.

He joins Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik after a successful stint with Ibis Novotel Bengaluru Techpark,

where he was appointed as Rooms Division Manager, managing an inventory of 526 rooms. Biswa began his hospitality career in 2006 with Grand Hyatt Mumbai and worked across various departments in his tenure of over 8 years at the property.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Biswa Ranjan Mohapatra - Director of Rooms, Radisson Blu

Hotel & Spa, Nashik said, “I am proud to be part of a team that strives to bring to life the outstanding

experiences and spirit of Nashik –an unexplored destination. I am looking forward to my new role as the

Director of Rooms at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Nashik with an endeavor to align the rooms division and

front office operations towards elevated guest experiences and upholding the brand’s global standards.”

Biswa holds a Hotel Management Diploma from the Indo American Hotel Management Academy and is an

avid believer in teamwork. He attributes his success not just to hard work but also to meaningful

collaborations with his team members and peers.

About Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik

A relaxing oasis perched amidst a panoramic location, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik is nestled at the

foothills of the two-millennia old Pandav caves in Nashik. This modern 5-star urban sanctuary features 224

elegant guest rooms and suites, world-class restaurants, versatile event spaces spanning over 51,000 sq. ft., ideal for large conferences, celebrations, and destination weddings. Redefining luxury in the ‘Wine Capital of India’, the hotel also features premium wellness and fitness facilities, including ATMAN- The Spa, a hair and beauty salon, an exclusive bridal lounge, an outdoor swimming pool, and an internationally acclaimed ASB squash court, against the backdrop of untouched scenery and lush green landscapes.

An idyllic setting for a luxury lifestyle getaway, the hotel is located just off the Mumbai Nashik highway. It's a 30-minute drive from Nashik airport and at a drivable distance from Mumbai and Pune. For more

information, please visit: https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-spa-nashik

Maldives News | Rajeev Kohli Conferred ‘Hall of Leaders’ Award by EIC

Joint-Managing Director, Creative Travel, Rajeev Kohli has been conferred with the prestigious ‘Hall of Leaders’ award by the Events Industry Council (EIC). As the first Indian to be inducted into the EIC Hall of Fame, where the most remarkable leaders are recognized, this new achievement brings great honor to the Indian travel trade.  

The Hall of Leaders award is the premier recognition program considered the "lifetime achievement award" in the events industry. The award recognizes outstanding leaders who have undoubtedly shaped the industry. The defining quality among these leaders is that the industry would not be what it is today without their contributions. The Hall of Leaders consists of pioneers, influential, prolific, and altruistic members.  

With over 26 years of Luxury Travel & Destination Management (DMC) experience, Rajeev Kohli has immensely contributed to the development of the tourism industry, has been appointed to the role of President of Global DMC group, EURO MEC, the oldest DMC alliance in the industry and becoming the first Asian global President of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE). He previously held the post of Senior Vice President of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) among many other roles.  

He is professionally certified as a Certified Incentive Specialist (CIS), Certified Incentive Travel Professional (CITP), and Destination Management Certified Professional (DMCP). 

Source

Ingredient Ideology | THE COMFORTING COCONUT By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef.

THE COMFORTING COCONUT

Coconuts have been said to be known as the fruit of the tree of the palm family, while having originated somewhere in indo-Malaya they however remain an important crop of the tropical countries. The term coconut can refer to the whole coconut palm, the seed of the fruit which botanically is a drupe and not a fruit. While being a hard shell on the outside with tender flesh and water within it has a number of culinary applications and uses to offer us in our kitchens.

A preferred choice for a refreshing cool welcome drink coconut water is said to be very beneficial and nutritionally high for us while the tender coconut malai goes well into desserts, puddings, salads. Coconut milk laces our curries quite well and be it Indian or international cuisines recipes with veg, fish, chicken, or prawns it just blends to perfection.

Let us have a look at a few Health Benefits of Coconuts:

Coconut water offers a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps balance sodium levels in the body and regulates blood pressure. But the idea that coconut water is more hydrating than plain water or is a superior post-workout drink is largely a myth. As for coconut flour, which is dried, ground coconut meat, it has 5 g of fiber in just 2 tbsp., making it an impressive replacement for traditional white flour, especially for those following a gluten-free diet.

 Coconut for weight loss is still the stuff of lore, despite what tons of dubious health sites may say. Until more research is done and proves otherwise, you shouldn’t consider coconut a magic elixir for weight loss. What’s more, if you freely eat coconut oil (or other coconut products) believing it will help you lose weight, you can easily take in more calories than your body needs and gain weight.

• It is said that Coconut Boosts the immune system since coconuts are anti-parasite, antibacterial, anti-viral and antifungal.

• Coconuts Provide quick energy and improves athletic and physical performance.

• Consuming coconut considerably reduces the risk of heart diseases.

• Having coconut Protects against bladder infection and kidney disease.

• Coconut also Restores and maintains thyroid functionality.

• Including coconut in our diets Makes one look young by preventing age spots, sagging skin, and wrinkles.

Fortunately, there are a ton of recipes out there for ways you can cook various foods using coconut, so there is no way you will get bored with them. Once you stick to a coconut diet, there is no going back! Here are a few of my select favorites with Coconut.

Recipe-1] SOOTHING SUMMER COCONUT SMOOTHIE

Ingredients:

Fresh tender coconut flesh or malai-1/2 cup

Coconut milk- 1 cup

Soy milk-1/2 to 3/4th cup

Banana-1 no ripe

Dates-3-4 no chopped

Honey- 1 tsp

Sliced cashews/almonds/walnuts-1 tbsp.

Flax seeds/ sunflower seeds- 1 tsp

Mint/microgreens/ nuts for garnish.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the healthy shake and keep them chilled.

2. Using a jar of a food processor combine all of them and churn them up well to a smooth texture.

3. Adjust texture with milk as needed or add a little yogurt.

4. Pour the smoothie into jars/glasses and garnish with fresh shavings of coconut/sliced nuts/toasted seeds etc

Recipe-2] TROPICAL COCONUT CHICKEN SALAD

Ingredients

For the base of the salad:

Assorted lettuce leaves- 1 cup

For the body of the salad:

Fresh tender coconut malai-1/2 cup

Boiled chicken -1 cup cubes/ shreds

Celery- 2-3 tbsp. cut into small pieces.

Pineapple-1/2 cup cubes

Mango-1 no cubes

For the dressing of the salad:

Olive oil-2 tbsp.

Mustard paste-1 tsp

Salt and pepper to taste

Lime juice- 2 tsp

White vinegar-1 tsp

Sliced red/green chilies-2 no

Mixed herbs-1/2 tsp

Assorted seeds of your choice- 1 tsp

Assorted sliced nuts of your choice- 2 tsp

For the garnish of the salad:

Micro-greens/ cherry tomatoes/ mint/ parsley/ olives.

Method:

1. Prepare all the parts of the salad and keep ready.

2. Assemble the crispy lettuce leaves on a salad serving plate or a serving platter.

3. In a mixing bowl combine together all the ingredients for the dressing and mix them well.

4. Just before serving the salad, toss the body of the salad in the dressing and arrange it on the bed of lettuce, garnish appropriately and serve the delicious salad chilled.

Recipe- 3] COCONUT RIZ PILAF

Ingredients:

Basmati rice- 1 and a half cups, cleaned and soaked in 4 cups water for 20 mins.

Oil-2 tsp

Butter- 1 tsp

Garlic-1 tsp chopped

Lemongrass- 4- 5 pieces

Onion- 1 small chopped

Red/green chilies-2 no slit/shred.

Salt and pepper to taste

Veg stock/water- 2 and half cups

Coconut milk-1/2 cup

Tender coconut malai- 2-3 tbsp. shredded.

Fried cashew nuts and raisins- 2 tbsp. garnish.

Method:

1. Pre-prep all the ingredients for this tasty rice recipe.

2. Heat oil and butter in a pan add in the lemongrass, chili, onions, and garlic, and give it a nice saute for 1 min.

3. Add in the drained rice and fry it for 30 seconds, add in the veg stock or water, salt, and pepper to taste and allow to boil, cover and simmer until almost cooked.

4. Lastly add in the thick coconut milk and tender coconut malai and lightly blend it in, cover and cook in dum for 4-6 mins, garnish and serve hot with your gravies/curries, etc

Recipe-4] COCONUT PRAWN CURRY

Ingredients

Coconut milk-2 cups thick

Prawns- medium to large size-500 gms cleaned, deveined.

Oil/ghee-2 tsp

Butter- 1 tsp

Cumin seeds-1/2 tsp

Bayleaf-1 no

Cinnamon stick-1-inch piece

To make a paste with the following ingredients:

Onions- 1 cup fried, lightly browned

Garlic- 6-8 cloves

Ginger- 1-inch piece

Red chilies- 6-8 boiled

Tomatoes-2 med sized.

Water-1/2 cup

Other ingredients to finish with the curry:

Turmeric powder-1/2 tsp

Coriander powder-1 tsp

Salt and crushed black pepper to taste

Garam masala powder-1/4 tsp

Water-1 cup

Lime juice-2 tsp

Coriander leaves- 2 tbsp.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients and keep aside.

2. In some cases we also marinate the prawns with salt, turmeric, lime and keep aside for 10 mins.

3. Heat oil/ghee and butter in a thick bottomed pan add in the cumin seeds, whole spices and saute for 30 seconds, add in the prepared paste mixture and cook it on a medium flame for 2-3 mins.

4. Add little water if needed and add in the prawns and all other spices and seasonings and give it a nice mix with the masala.

5. Simmer the prawns for 2-3 mins, add in the coconut milk and cover and cook for 4-5 mins, serve hot garnished with coriander, a splash of lime juice, crushed black pepper.

Recipe-5] COCO NAKA PUDDING

Ingredients:

Coconut milk-1 cup thick.

Desiccated coconut-2 tbsp.

Butter-2 tsp

Sponge cake/ chocolate brownie-  200 gms cut into cubes.

Milk- 2 cups

Brown sugar-2 tbsp.

Condensed milk- 2-3 tbsp.

Dates- 3-4 chopped

Assorted chopped nuts- 2 tbsp.

Cinnamon powder-1/4 tsp

Banana-1 ripe peeled and sliced.

Pineapple-1/2 cup cubes

Cherries/ kiwi/ mango etc assorted fruits can be added to the layer of the pudding as well.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the pudding.

2. In a sauce pan heat up the milk, add in the dates, brown sugar, condensed milk and cinnamon powder and reduce for 10 mins.

3. Add in the coconut milk, desiccated coconut and bananas, butter and cook for 2-3 mins. Turn off the flame.

4. In a pudding bowl arrange the cubes of cake or brownie and fruits of your choice and top it up with the warm coconut milk mixture and allow to set in the fridge for 1 hour.

5. Serve this pudding with a scoop of ice-cream of your choice and some chocolate sauce and cherries to garnish.

Brief About the Writer:

New Opening | Pride Group of Hotels announces entry at Rishikesh

Pride Group of Hotels announces entry at Rishikesh

Pride Group of Hotels has announced signing up its second property in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. Located in the Tapovan region of Rishikesh, The resort is surrounded by forested hills and the Ganges, making it a perfect haven for anyone looking for a peaceful yet exhilarating getaway. The resort is scheduled to welcome guests soon.

“We've signed up another location at the mesmerizing Uttarakhand, in Rishikesh. Located at the foothills of the Himalayas of Northern India, Rishikesh attracts an influx of international tourists alongside religious tourists and is a great ground for Yoga & Adventure lovers. We're sure “India Dekho With Pride” will be further strengthened, providing local job opportunities & will help to explore the unexplored with the addition of an equally dynamic location like Rishikesh," said Mr. Atul Upadhyay, Vice President- Pride Group Of Hotels.

Pride Resort, Rishikesh has proximity to popular tourist spots like the famous Lakshman Jhula and Triveni Ghat. The resort will comprise well-appointed rooms with aesthetically designed interiors. The warm & stylish ambiance of the property is sure to pamper the trend-conscious and upbeat traveler with its personalized services, premium in-room amenities, restaurants, and fun experiences.

With its presence around 34 great locations across India, Pride Group of Hotels boasts of 3213+ Rooms, 70 Restaurants, 92 Banquets, and Conference Halls, reinforcing itself as a one-stop destination for MICE. Currently, Pride Hotels operates and manages a chain of hotels under the brand name “Pride Plaza Hotel” an Indian Luxury Collection, at Aerocity – New Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata, “Pride Hotel” at Bangalore, Chennai, Nagpur, Pune, Indore, Udaipur & (soon) Bharuch, Haldwani along with “Pride Resorts” at Goa, Puri, Jaipur, Rajkot, Bharatpur, Gangtok, Dapoli, Mussoorie & (soon) Aatapi, Rishikesh, Daman, Bhavnagar, Dwaraka, Nainital, Jim Corbett, and also Mid-Market Hotels under “Pride Biznotel” at Anand & (soon) Jabalpur, Agra, Bhopal, Surendranagar, Rajkot, Somnath & Haldwani.

Chefs Day | International Chef’s Day Special- INSPIRED TO ACT!

International Chef’s Day Special- INSPIRED TO ACT!

On the occasion of International Chef’s Day, Auro University School of Hospitality Management presented Chef Jerson Fernandes, Executive Chef of Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach a dynamic platform to engage aspiring hospitality professionals with ‘The Art of Food Plating’.

With plant-based diets on the rise, the value of bringing knowledge via a workshop  with a focus on ingredients that benefit the planet and sustainability helped emphasize the theme ‘Healthy Food for the Future’ on International Chefs’ Day. 

According to Chef Jerson, art inspired presentations of food influence the diner’s perceptions and responses. The visual tasting experience adds to the complexity of the composition, and represents the culture of the food, through traditional or contemporary techniques. 

Food presentation, Chef Jerson avowed is a reflection of the personality of the chef, and being artistic and original in plating, further amplifies  the delightful flavour experience.   With detailed principles of plate presentation being demonstrated, the importance of  communicating quality through the components of the visual aesthetics were reiterated.  

The interactive session concluded with essential wisdom: “plating is the final step of respecting  food to creating that final first impression. 

In the words of Amreesh Misra, Registrar and Head of School of Hospitality Management, AURO University, “By being able to see the structured process and not just the final product, on the plate made the session relevant, and the content comprehensive for the student community. A true collaboration that promotes ongoing learning, and an opportunity of the wealth of  knowledge and insights; from Chef Jerson Fernandes.”

Appointment | Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik appoints Mr. Manikandan Marar as Director of Finance

Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik appoints Mr. Manikandan Marar as Director of Finance

October 2021: Mr. Manikandan Marar has been appointed as Director of Finance at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik. Mr. Marar brings over three decades of deep understanding and commands over domain experience in financial planning and analysis, financial control, taxation, and budgeting. Spearheading the hotel’s business strategy he will continue to evolve innovative finance structures and mentor the team towards success. 

With a postgraduate degree in Mathematics and as a certified degree holder from The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of India (ICMAI), Mr. Marar started his journey in the hospitality industry with a renowned Indian luxury hotel group, devoting ten years to nurturing it. Following this, he also had the opportunity to work with notable hotel groups including – Le Méridien, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, and Hilton Hotels & Resorts. 

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Manikandan Marar - Director of Finance, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik says, “I am truly honored to join Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik and be a part of such a dynamic team. I am excited about this new chapter, and together with the team I am confident that the hotel will thrive towards an elevated revenue growth for a strong and sustainable future”. 

In his current role as Director of Finance at the upcoming Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik, he will oversee all the hotel’s financial operations; namely accounting, auditing, budgeting, financial reporting and purchasing functions.  Mr. Marar’s expertise and foresight will effectively guide the hotel to strive towards productivity with valuable financial principles to build on and grow.

About Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik

A relaxing oasis perched amidst a panoramic location, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik is nestled at the foothills of the two-millennia old Pandav caves in Nashik.  This modern 5-star urban sanctuary features 224 elegant guest rooms and suites, world-class restaurants, versatile event spaces spanning over 51,000 sq. ft., ideal for large conferences, celebrations, and destination weddings. Redefining luxury in the ‘Wine Capital of India’, the hotel also features premium wellness and fitness facilities, including ATMAN- The Spa, a hair and beauty salon, an exclusive bridal lounge, an outdoor swimming pool, and an internationally acclaimed ASB squash court, against the backdrop of untouched scenery and lush green landscapes. 

Appointment | Lilian Roger is new GM of Riyadh’s Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana

Rotana Hotels has confirmed that Lilian Roger has been appointed as general manager at Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana in Riyadh. He was previously in the same position at ART Rotana in Bahrain.

Roger said: “I am thrilled to be joining the team at Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana Riyadh. I look forward to working with the team to continue our efforts to create a lifelong relationships with our partners and guests. We are focused on delivering moments that will be remembered for years to come.

“Saudi hospitality sector is one of the most growing sectors and we are committed to playing a key role in supporting its overall development.”

He was at ART Rotana – now the Art Hotel and Resort – for almost five years, before that, he was posted at Downtown Rotana in Manama.

Most of his 25 years in the industry were with Hilton. He started as an F&B management trainee for Hilton Roissy in 1995, moving up to F&B coordinator of Hilton Cannes a year later. After almost four years in France, he began to travel the world, taking up roles in Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt and Japan through a series of progressively senior roles.

He went on to hold two general manager positions for Hilton in China, at both the Hilton Guiyang and Xian.

Visit Maldives | MALDIVES IS READY TO WELCOME OVER 1 MILLION TRAVELERS IN 2021

The isles of Maldives are truly beyond compare. Scattered like pearls across the crystalline waters of the Indian oceans, travelers all across the world dream of Maldives. Last year, Maldives was one of the first destinations to open borders for international travelers. We entered 2021 with hope and optimism, and in a few weeks, we will welcome the millionth traveler to visit the Maldives this year.

A Reflection

The Maldive’s success and achievements is a reflection and testament to the perseverance, ingenuity, creativity, and passion of the tourism industry, the health sector, and beyond. As we approach the milestone of welcoming the one-millionth visitor for the year, we at Maldives Marketing Public Relations and Corporation (MMPRC) take a look back at the effort, dedication, and work we have done, with the sincere aim of making this a reality.

We entered 2021 with a difficult task at hand. At a time when people across the world showed increasing reluctance to travel, and with travel restrictions in place across the globe, it was our mission to promote the Maldives and show the world that we are a safe haven.

The blessings of our unique geography, with our scattered islands and our unique ‘one-island-one-resort’ concept, makes us one of the safest destinations in the world. And ultimately, we were responsible for regaining travelers' trust and confidence by promoting the Maldives as a safe haven during those challenging times. Needless to say, it was not an easy feat.

Ever since the onset of the pandemic, our strategy was to maintain destination presence across the globe so that travelers will keep dreaming of the Maldives. We aimed to position Maldives as the top of the mind destination for travelers as soon as borders opened for leisure travel once again in these markets.

The Work of MMPRC

So far in 2021, we have taken part in 25 leading fairs across the world and conducted five physical roadshows and one virtual roadshow. At each of these events, we provided the opportunity for our industry partners to take part along withVisit Maldives to showcase their sought-after products and unique experiences.

The Maldives pavilions are always beautifully constructed - designed carefully to showcase the aesthetics that makes the Maldives so beautiful. It is not rare for us to hear that the Maldives stands out at fairs and events that we have been part of.

So far this year, we have conducted over 39 campaigns with various stakeholders on a variety of platforms. We have conducted campaigns with leading travel agencies across the globe, world-famous publications, major airlines such as Qatar Airways, and on TV channels such as CNN, among many others. These are simply a few of the many countless stakeholders we have conducted campaigns with.

If you have seen pictures of the turquoise waters of Maldives flood social media, part of it is due to the many familiarization trips we have conducted with leading media, celebrities, and so on. In fact, we have conducted 22 familiarization trips so far this year.

We have also conducted six global campaigns this year. We are collaborating with Expedia, InsideFlyer, Skyscanner, Qatar Airways and CNN on these global campaigns. Through these campaigns, we have reached a staggering 59,738,116,794 potential travelers, with an estimated media value of $119,595,365.

Each marketing activity is possible due to the hard-working marketeers, industry partners, stakeholders and others. It is our mandate to provide equal and fair opportunities for all our industry stakeholders in all of the marketing campaigns we conduct. Whichever fair we take part in, we do so with our industry partners. Whichever roadshow we host, we provide the opportunity for our partners to showcase their products and connect with the global travel trade.

Want to work in maldives

NEWS | Imagicaa to welcome back guests from 22nd October

Imagicaa, India's largest themed entertainment park is set to reopen and welcome back guests w.e.f. from 22nd October 2021. After a 6 month long hiatus post second lockdown, sounds of glee and laughter will again echo loud and wide at Imagicaa that has always provided an escape from the daily chaos.

Patrons can revel once again in the power-packed entertainment the park has ranging from uniquely designed thrilling rollercoasters and outdoor rides, indoor thematic attractions, and daily in-park activities. From free-falling rides to family fun, entertainment quotient will remain the same; just laced with guided safety measures.

Taking a unique measure towards social distancing, Imagicaa has introduced India’s first Virtual Queuing app by facilitating skip long physical queue-rides and managing customer ride journey in the digital space through a mobile app. This not only aids regulation and management of customer flow per ride but also reduce on-site time spent and increased guest satisfaction and enjoyment levels.

Commenting on the re-opening, Dhimant Bakshi, CEO – Imagicaaworld Entertainment Ltd, said, “We are delighted to welcome everyone again in by providing them an adventurous, fun, and a complete safe entertainment experience where they continue creating memories with Imagicaa. This news is perfectly timed with the commencement of the festive season where everyone is looking for something to enjoy. Credit this reopening to the combined representative efforts of our apex body IAAPI, and support from the Government of Maharashtra. Prioritising safety and in lines with prescribed SOP; we have implemented all necessary safety measures at Imagicaa including the conscious decision of being operational on weekends(Friday to Sunday) and public holidays only. Introduction of ‘Virtual Queuing’ is an extended effort in this direction. Our endeavour is to deliver the best and safest guest experiences that will aid in reinvigorating the domestic tourism market.”

On reopening, Imagicaa will operate at 50% capacity and have alternate seating to ensure utmost safety to all patrons along with all ICMR and WHO guidelines. To celebrate this joyous reopening occasion, Imagicaa has introduced 30% off on Imagicaa Theme Park tickets as a re-opening offer.

Guests who have pre-booked previous Imagicaa offers can visit the website to check for operational days and select their preferred date of visit to this perfect destination that is geared up for a thoroughly safe and joyous experience.

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