BCIHMCT hosting its 12th India International Hotel, Travel and Tourism Research Conference

Training and Skilling Employees – the only way to win customer loyalty

“Human Resource Department has a tough task at hand. The post-pandemic era needs a lot of trained, skilled and motivated employees to bring back the loyalty of customers for the hospitality sector.” In the 12th India International Hotel, Travel & Tourism Research Conference, which is currently being organized, from March 03, 2022 to March 05, 2022 by Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, many such issues were raised and discussed by the academic fraternity.

The theme for this year is "Renaissance 2.0: Re-think, Re-build & Re-coup" which is aimed at absorbing the best practices adopted by the active players in the hospitality & tourism sector around the world. The HR department should develop managers who have to be great at time management, context switching, and problem solving.

Through methodical and modern methods of training, a manager can handle various situations like unhappy guests, analyzing guest needs and of course emergency scenarios like last minute changes at a function or banquet operations.

HR should strategize their policy in such a manner so as to improve operations in all departments, allowing the team to be more efficient and even assess if they are happy at work. This will definitely bring back loyal customers and help the revenues to soar as high as possible.

During the Conference, researchers discussed and deliberated on pertinent issues related to the HR department of a hotel and how to revive and thrive guest experiences by training and skilling employees. The conference also shed the light on enhancing knowledge of creating and managing demand, and maximizing returns in the near future for all future managers. After all, “A hotel is only as good as its employees.”

The major part of our IIHTTRC conference also focused on implementing programs to properly train employees that help close the skills gap, which also continues to be one of the biggest HR challenges in the hospitality industry. 

In addition all the factors discussed so far, HR Managers in the hospitality sector often face challenges related to the motivation of their employees. Most jobs in this sector are highly stressful needing constant vigilance and attention on the employees and hence, there is a high burnout rate in the sector. To avoid high attrition due to stress and demoralized employees due to fatigue, HR Managers in the sector must come up with innovative and inventive policies to ensure that employees remain motivated. 

That’s why there is a need of skilled employees, who provide exceptional customer service at all times. An Effective HR team can revive the morale of the employees and thus make the customers happy and loyal, by training and skilling all manpower of the hotel sector.

HR professionals at hospitality companies also face a unique set of challenges that they have to tackle daily. Hence, there is a need to keep the spirits of the employees high and towards this cause. HR Managers can ensure that they align the rewards with the performance in a manner that brings out the best in each of their employees.

Through this theme, an effort is being made in the conference to include constructive deliberations on the aforesaid issues prevailing worldwide in HR due to the current pandemic situation and to address, discuss and devise future strategies for “Managing Hotel Operations and Human Resource Issue”.

Appointment | DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bangalore Appoints Rajeev Rawat as New Front Office Manager

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bangalore Appoints Rajeev Rawat as New Front  Office Manager 

Rajeev Rawat brings more than 11 years of industry experience to the position 

Bengaluru, Karnataka – March, 2022 – Rajeev Rawat has been named as the new Front  Office Manager at the 172-room DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bangalore, which has been open  since January, 2014. Rawat will lead front office endeavors while supporting the hotel’s mission  to provide outstanding service to guests. Located at Iblur Gate, Marathahalli-Bellandur-Sarjapur  Outer Ring Road, Sarjapur Main Road Bengaluru. 

Rajeev’s passion for the DoubleTree by Hilton brand and extensive front office operations  knowledge makes him the perfect fit to lead Front Office Department at DoubleTree Suites by  Hilton Bangalore in achieving its business goals and providing outstanding service to guests,"  said Subhabrata Roy, general manager. 

“I am honored to join the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bangalore team,” said Rawat. “My  position here in Bengaluru allows me to ensure our hotel is the top choice for guests traveling to the area, for business and leisure alike.” 

Prior to joining DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bangalore, Rawat was Front Office Manager of  Courtyard Marriott, Agra. He started his journey with JW Marriott, Pune as a Front Desk  Executive and has worked previously with reputed brands such as JW Marriott - Mussoorie, JW  Marriott Jaipur and Courtyard Marriott, Ahmedabad. 

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bangalore is part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest  loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 world-class brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly  through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment  slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a  stay, an exclusive member discount that can’t be found anywhere else and free standard Wi-Fi.  Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading  Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room and  access their room using Digital Key. 

Appointment | Doubletree by Hilton Jaipur Amer appoints Nibedita Thapa as cluster learning and development manager

Thapa is an expert in harnessing employee engagement and setting the foundation for great people.

Doubletree by Hilton Jaipur has announced the appointment of Nibedita Thapa as its cluster learning and development manager.

Possessing nearly 11 years of experience, Thapa is an expert in harnessing employee engagement and setting the foundation for great people and work culture at Doubletree by Hilton. Here, she will be handling Hilton Jaipur and Doubletree by Hilton Jaipur Amer.

Encompassing the values, visions, ideals, norms, and working language, she has a knack of bringing together professionals from various diverse cultures to collaborate in harmony in order to achieve the ultimate purpose and vision of the company. Having previously worked at a range of well-known hotels, such as Radisson Hotels, Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, Thapa believes that the Learning and Development department truly develops and manages a company’s culture.

Nestlé India pledges to further help spice farmers in India through the MAGGI Spice Plan

Nestlé India pledges to further help spice farmers in India through the MAGGI Spice Plan

• The program aims to deliver positive impacts for the farmer communities, the Planet, and the business

• The program will ensure traceability of seven key spices - Chilli, Turmeric, Coriander, Cumin, Aniseed, Fenugreek, Nutmeg

• Already positively impacted 1300 spice farmers across 7 states

Spices and herbs have the power to transform any dish into a tasty meal and give life to even the simplest preparations. Spices are essential to the Nestlé product portfolio and are used in many products, especially MAGGI. To help improve the economic stability of the spice farmers, Nestlé MAGGI has implemented a Sustainable Sourcing Programme for spices. Built on the pillars of traceability and responsible sourcing, the programme aims to ensure transparency on origins and progressively deliver positive impacts for the farmer communities, the environment and the business within its spices supply chain. The key areas of intervention of the MAGGI Spice plan are: ensuring good soil health, reduction in water wastage, no pesticide residues, the economics of cultivation, and biodiversity enhancements through the spice farms.

Commenting on the thought behind this programme, Mr. Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director, Nestlé India, said, “Spices are important for India, for Indians and hence for the MAGGI portfolio. At Nestlé India, we have always aimed to create value for our stakeholders, especially for the communities in which we operate. The programme is built on three aspects: planet, people and profits (for farmers). Through this, we wish to contribute to improving the livelihood of spice farmers by introducing them to the best farming practices that are sustainable and will help them grow the best produce while ensuring safe living and working conditions for them.”

The first pillar focuses on traceability of seven spices – Chilli, Turmeric, Coriander, Cumin, Aniseed, Fenugreek, Nutmeg – used in MAGGI products. Food traceability in the spice food chain is important to establish that the spices are free from harmful pesticides, additives, and climate change effects. The project already touches the lives of about 1300 farmers, spread across 39 villages and 7 states including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Rajasthan and Gujarat in 2020, and this is expected to increase by about 15% by the end of 2022. The second pillar of responsible sourcing has been tailored to address four areas: ensure resilient livelihoods, safe living and working conditions for farmers, maintaining biodiverse and environmentally sustainable farms. 

Our partnerships and the trust we have built up over the years with Spice farmers give Nestle India the inspiration to look at emulating such endeavours in other agri-commodities as well where we have involvement.

Dilli 6 Food Festival Edition 12- Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla

Dilli 6 Food Festival Edition 12- Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla- 4th March-17th March 2022

Unravel the majestic Purani Dilli from the lens of royal ladies at the ‘Dilli 6’ food festival at Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla

An ode to the International Women’s Day theme #BreakTheBias

Unravel the majestic culinary and cultural glory of Purani Dilli from the lens of royal ladies and their flamboyant lifestyles as Edesia, a multi-cuisine restaurant at Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla is all set to host the 12th edition of its signature food festival ‘Dilli 6’. The dates of the festival would be from 4th March to 17th March 2022.

 Step back in time and dine like ‘Mallika’s’ of yore, as we recreate centuries-old customs and culinary legacies for the guests to dine like a royal. The extravaganza will witness the presence of food and ‘mithai’ vendors & karigars from Chandni Chowk for a truly local experience.

The theme of the year: Noor-E-Khawateen (Radiance-Of-Womankind)

 This year is an ode to the Boss Ladies of royal eras- Begum Nur Jahan (Co-sovereign of Mughal Empire during the reign of Jahangir and one of the most powerful feminist icons of the era), Princess Jahanara (Boss Lady and the mind behind the architecture of Chandni Chowk during the reign of Shah Jahan) and Empress Razia Sultan (first and only female ruler of Delhi Sultanate, successor of Iltutmish).

The in-house team has also designed multiple unique dining experiences for guests to experience the flamboyant lifestyle of these protagonists and travel back to the royal era: Jahanara Lounge (luxurious Mughal suite),  Sultanat-E-Razia (royal court), and Mughal Sena Shivir (ancient Mughal army themed dining experience as an ode to braveheart Nur Jahan).  Don’t forget to shop from our ancient style ‘Meena Bazaar’.

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Menu:

The guests will be welcomed with Dilli 6 style Bunta, Shikanjis, and Mohabbat ka Sherbet. The buzzing street food carts will offer quintessential Dilli 6 delicacies such as Golguppas, Kalmi Vada, Aloo Tikkis, Fruit Kulia, Dahi Gujhiya, Papdi, Kakori Kebabs, Noorani Kebabs, Reshami Kebabs, Bhutta Seekh Kebabs and much more. 

The chefs will recreate the icnonic Paranthe Wali Gali with unique variety of Paranthas. For the main course, wow your taste buds with quintessential Jahangiri Mutton Quorma, Murgh Begum Bahar, Nihari, Biryani, Sheermal & more. Conclude your meal on sweet note with desserts such as Karachi Halwa, Sohan Halwa, Habshi Halwa, Phirni, Jalebis & more.

More experiences

Do not miss a chance to interact with Pandit Ji and hear out his ‘bhavishyavanis’ along with desi Paan to conclude the wonderful journey. 

According to Mr. Shuvendu Banerjee, General Manager, “Dilli 6 food festival is a signature experience of our hotel where we offer authentic delicacies from the bylanes of Old Delhi crafted under extremely hygienic set up. This year, we are attempting to salute the powerful female icons of the royal eras through curated culinary, cultural and dining experience. We also strive to support the International Women’s Day theme 2022- Break The Bias by honoring the magnificent and fierce women during the eras when Pardah system was a norm.”

According to Mr. Pradipt Sinha, Director of Food & Beverage,” Our lavish Dilli 6 menu gives an opportunity for guests feast on time-honored culinary recipes that have been passed through generations. Our chefs have collaborated with local karigars and vendors of Chandni Chowk to bring delectable indulgences which are deeply rooted in Delhi’s history.”

What: Dilli 6 food festival (Season 12)

Where: Edesia at Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla

Timings: 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm

Dilli 6 Buffet Price: INR 2299+ taxes| Dilli 6 Thali Price: INR 1599 + taxes (Prices per person)

For table reservations, call us at: + 91 95829 44897

Appointment | Vinodh Ramamurthy is General Manager of Hilton Jaipur

His last assignment was as General Manager for DoubleTree by Hilton Agra, a position he was managing since 2018

Vinodh Ramamurthy has been appointed as General Manager of Hilton Jaipur. He has over 22 years of experience in hospitality.

In his last assignment, he was General Manager for DoubleTree by Hilton Agra, which he managed since 2018. Under his leadership, the hotel saw heightened growth in revenue as well as team and guest satisfaction scores.

Ramamurthy has had a stellar career at Hilton spanning over 10 years from when he joined in 2012. He is a fitness enthusiast and enjoys taking long trips on his bike.

NEWS | Lemon Tree Hotels signs new hotel in Mukteshwar

The property is owned by The Alpine Chalet Resort and shall be managed by Carnation Hotels, a subsidiary and management arm of Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited announced its latest hotel signing – Lemon Tree Hotel, Mukteshwar in Uttarakhand. This hotel is expected to open in July 2022. The property is owned by The Alpine Chalet Resort and shall be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, a subsidiary and management arm of Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd.

Nestled amidst the majestic hills and lush greenery, Mukteshwar is a hill station suburb of Nainital. It derives its name from the 350-year-old temple, Mukteshwar Dham, whose presiding deity is Lord Shiva. Mukteshwar is also a wonderful trekking location with fruit orchards, coniferous forests, lush green pathways, and narrow lanes, it is a nature lover’s paradise that attracts throngs of tourists all year round.

One side of the destination is covered by dense forests and the other side features a stunning view of the enchanting valleys. Located in the Nainital district, this property will feature 41 well-appointed rooms and suites, complemented by a multi-cuisine restaurant and a bar. It will also have a conference room, and a swimming pool, spa and a fitness center for recreation.

Speaking on the occasion, Vikramjit Singh, President – Lemon Tree Hotels Limited commented, “We are delighted to expand our reach in Uttarakhand with our valued partner The Alpine Chalet Resort. This state holds immense business and tourism potential and is a preferred destination for travellers. With our widespread reach, we feel that this hotel will add value to our customers.”

New Opening | Hilton Garden Inn Hotel opens at Embassy Manyata, Bengaluru

This 353-key hotel is part of the upcoming Hilton Hotels Embassy Manyata complex comprising 619 key dual-branded Hilton properties

Embassy Office Parks REIT, India’s first publicly listed real estate investment trust and Asia’s largest by area, announced the opening of the first Hilton Garden Inn Hotel in Bengaluru, strategically located at Embassy Manyata Business Park (‘Embassy Manyata’). This 353-key hotel is part of the upcoming Hilton Hotels Embassy Manyata complex comprising 619 key dual-branded Hilton properties – Hilton Garden Inn and Hilton, and a state-of-the-art 60,000 sq ft Convention Centre; making it one of the largest hotels complexes in South India.

The hotel provides a preferred hospitality destination for global corporates in a growing tech hub in the heart of Bengaluru, India’s leading office market. It is located within close vicinity of key destinations in North and Central Bengaluru like Hebbal and other key Commercial Business districts; and enjoys easy accessibility from Kempegowda International Airport.

The Hotel adds to the total business ecosystem of Embassy Manyata, one of India’s largest business parks with an operational area of around 12 million square feet. It shares a symbiotic relationship with the wellness-oriented grade A office product, catering to over 100,000 employees from 42 top-notch corporates. A recently inaugurated flyover with a dedicated arm servicing the park enables easy access and streamlines traffic for the benefit of hotel guests, employees, and the local community.

Michael Holland, CEO of Embassy Office Parks REIT, said, “With the opening of the Hilton Garden Inn, we are delighted to provide another top-class amenity at Embassy Manyata; which is a perfect example of Embassy REIT’s philosophy to enhance the total-business-ecosystem offering that our parks deliver. The hotel will offer ease and convenience to our park occupiers and their guests, and presents an integrated solution for many corporates as they return to the office.”

Navjit Ahluwalia, Senior Vice President and Country Head of Hilton in India, said,“We are thrilled to partner with Embassy REIT to open our first Hilton Garden Inn property in Bengaluru. This hotel is amongst the largest Hilton Garden Inn hotels in the Asia Pacific. As we come out of the pandemic and look forward to a brighter future for our industry, our commitment to grow our estate in India remains on track with this opening as well as the Hilton and the Convention Centre at this complex slated later this year.”

The hotel boasts 353 functional guest rooms including 11 suites. Guests don’t have to look too far for a delicious meal; the hotel features restaurant ‘F5’, which serves a sumptuous spread of authentic local cuisine, international delicacies, and daily specials. This is complemented with a full-service lobby bar, ‘TechTonic’. Guests can also enjoy round-the-clock convenience with a variety of grab-and-go options at ‘The Shop’ located in the hotel lobby.

With a focus on combining premium hospitality with affordability, the hotel has a spectacular opening offer for business & leisure travellers. As part of the offer, guests will receive a one-night complimentary stay at the upcoming Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park; for every stay reserved between March 1st to 31st, 2022 at Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru, in addition to Bonus points from the Hilton Honors program.

Combining upscale accommodation with ease of access and affordability, Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park comes with the quality assurance of the award-winning brand that delivers its signature positive, upbeat service and a better and brighter stay.

Marriott International Debuts Its 8,000th Property with the Newly Opened Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott

Marriott International (NASDAQ: MAR) today celebrated the opening of its 8,000th property – Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ, a 12-story stylish retreat adjacent to Marriott International’s soon-to-open new global headquarters in Bethesda, Maryland. The hotel opening signifies both a growth milestone for the company, as well as a remarkable moment in the Marriott story, as the company celebrates its 95th year. Marriott’s first lodging property, the Twin Bridges Marriott, opened in 1957 and was a four-story motor hotel in Arlington, Virginia.

“From the nine-seat root beer stand that my grandparents started nearly 95 years ago in downtown Washington, to the milestone opening of our 8,000th property, we have been fortunate to call this area our home,” said David Marriott, Director and incoming Chairman, Marriott International Board of Directors. “Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ reflects the continued transformation of the Marriott Hotels brand, and we are thrilled to embark on a new era of inspired travel and design with the opening of this hotel.”

Marriott Bethesda Downtown, part of the Marriott Hotels brand – the signature flag of Marriott Bonvoy’s 30 extraordinary brands – brings enriching, locally-influenced experiences to the global hospitality company’s home state. The hotel, owned by The Bernstein Companies and managed by Marriott International, is a gateway to the greater Washington, D.C. area and a destination in and of itself, featuring three innovative culinary concepts, including Bethesda’s first high-rise rooftop bar.

BUILT UPON INNOVATION
Exemplifying Marriott Hotels’ continued brand evolution, Marriott Bethesda Downtown sparks inspiration at every corner, with a modern, residential design and tailored solutions with locally-inspired accents. The hotel’s contemporary interiors illustrate a curated palette of materials inspired by the region’s natural attributes. Stone and tiles reminiscent of local Bethesda bluestone quarries greet guests at the hotel entrance leading to a grand staircase – the centerpiece of the glass-enclosed lobby brimming with natural light.

Faceted mirrors and floor-to-ceiling windows ripple throughout the hotel, infusing an abundance of natural light while also resembling reflections of the Potomac River.

Reimagined guest rooms and suites – with tailored, modern touches that inspire and nurture the needs of today’s traveler – feature multi-functional furniture, technology-enabled work surfaces with built-in universal adapters and UCS cords, and rose gold tinted mirrors. Hotel features include a spacious fitness center with Peloton bikes, a second-floor library highlighting local authors, and a curated art collection from the region’s emerging talent that is showcased throughout guest rooms and public spaces. A large-scale mural by multi-media artist Liz Collins, known globally for her abstract patterns, is an exclusively commissioned highlight.

Constructed to be LEED Gold certified with custom and sustainable design, the hotel features five expansive rooftop green spaces growing select ingredients for hotel menus and is designed to reduce pollution, save energy, and manage storm water.

BCIHMCT will be hosting its 12th India International Hotel, Travel and Tourism Research Conference (IIHTTRC) from 3rd -5th March, 2022.

TOURISM POTENTIAL AND PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT

Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management & Catering Technology supported by National Assessment & Accreditation Council, as well as Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi will be hosting its 12th India International Hotel, Travel and Tourism Research Conference (IIHTTRC) from 3rd -5th March 2022. 

The aim of this three-day conference is to get industry managers, tourism, and hospitality researchers together and to provide a platform, for deliberating on "Renaissance 2.0: Re-think, Re-build & Re-coup". The conference will serve as a means for developing measures for “Tourism Potentials and Performance Assessment” which is also a theme of one of its technical sessions.

The conference is being organized online due to the prevailing pandemic scenario by Prof.  R. K Bhandari Chairperson-IIHTTRC & Principal,-BCIHMCT and Dr. Arvind Saraswati, Convener-IIHTTRC & Academic Co-ordinator- BCIHMCT. Amongst the attendees will be dignitaries from Industry and Academia (National & International), media persons, paper-presenters, faculty members and students.

There will be a technical session titled “Tourism Potentials and Performance Assessment” which will be chaired by an industrial expert showcasing the research papers on different themes such as:

• Bibliometric Analysis of Tour Guiding Research 

• Medical Tourism and Health Insurance are Image Constructs for Destination: A Study of India

• Development and Infrastructure Growth of Urban Tourism in Guwahati City 

• Urban Tourism Potentialities in Bhubaneswar City – Opportunities and Challenges 

• The Influence of Perceived Constraints on Women’s Participation in Backpacking Trips

•  Evaluating Tourism Performance of New Delhi using UNWTO–WTCF City Tourism Framework

• Kashmir: A Culinary Paradise of the North-Frontier

• Potential of Food Tourism in Kundapura

These papers focus on how tourism is playing its role in the development of economy of various countries in terms of its contribution to the GDP of each country. And also how Tourism has the potential to show case culture, historical heritage, variety in ecology and natural beauty to the world. Additionally, these papers outline the part played by tourism towards earning of foreign exchange for various countries. Also the aforesaid research papers will advance the understanding of the transformed management practices of the tourism industry. They will help in developing a post pandemic rulebook for the industry, thus addressing the issues plaguing the industry

This technical session is to focus on a workable method to quantify tourism potential and its performance assessment. To evaluate means by which tourism as an industry can help any tourist destination development in the form of generation of employment and creation of infrastructure.

The International Conference will be attended online by hundreds of academicians & research scholars. Many students participating will benefit from the discussions and deliberations which will be made during the three-day mega event. IIHTTRC will culminate with a valedictory function where the efforts of paper presenters and all the participants will be acknowledged. 

NEWS | The iconic Pulitzer Amsterdam has appointed One Rep Global as its India representative partner.

The iconic Pulitzer Amsterdam has appointed One Rep Global as its India representative partner.

Discover quintessential Dutch elegance in an intricate maze of 25 connecting Golden Age canal houses. After a full renovation, completed in August 2016, this hidden neighborhood now features 225 guest rooms & suites, tranquil inner gardens, meeting & event spaces, a garden café, a hotel bar, and a restaurant that serves simple yet beautifully crafted dishes. The Pulitzer is a unique blend of up-market, traditional, and modern Dutch craftsmanship hidden amongst the city’s iconic canals. 

The buildings dating from the 17th and 18th centuries have been carefully restored to combine original, historic canal house components with modern and luxurious aspects. From leading merchants to flamboyant Dutch aristocrats, the former residents of these canal houses lend Pulitzer Amsterdam the opportunity to inspire guests and visitors with its rich character and history.

Guests can choose from four distinctive room types and three suite categories, as well as the beautiful romantic Pulitzer Suite. The four exceptional Collector's Suites with private entrance on the Keizersgracht and breathtaking views over the canals are inspired by the stories of intriguing characters who may have inhabited the canal houses over the years; from a determined art admirer to an eccentric book lover; a music composer and an antique collector. No two rooms are the same; each combines Amsterdam's rich past with the modern present in an eclectic mix of designs and elements that complement the charm of each individual room.

Speaking on this partnership, the Commercial Director, Gladys Camphuijsen, says, “For years we have seen the Indian market as such a great opportunity for the Pulitzer Amsterdam, however, we didn’t have the right tools to enter this market. With commencing the relationship with One Rep Global, we feel like we have found the perfect way to approach this market and build the right relationships. We are excited to learn about the wants and needs of the Indian market and can’t wait to become a hotel of choice in Amsterdam”

Further on the collaboration, Founder of One Rep Global, Hemant Mediratta, adds, “We are absolutely thrilled at this partnership with the Pulitzer Amsterdam and delighted how the property and destination perfectly complement our portfolio of luxury hotels. Situated amongst the iconic canals on the steps to key sites, The Pulitzer Amsterdam provides history combined with modern finesse. This property is truly unique and perfect for the discerning Indian luxury traveller.”.

About Pulitzer Amsterdam

The renovated Pulitzer Amsterdam is a luxury hotel situated in 25 combined 17th and 18th-century canal houses, in one of Amsterdam's most chic neighborhoods. With a view over the Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht, the hotel is situated in the historic heart of Amsterdam, listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Close to Dam Square, from Hotel Pulitzer, the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House are within easy reach. The trendy Nine Streets, the special shops in the Jordaan, the flower market, and the Royal Palace are located a stone's throw away, to be discovered by foot, bicycle or boat. 

Hyatt Announces Plans for the World's First FILA-Branded Lifestyle Hotel in Shanghai

A unique expression of life and vitality, FILA HOUSE Shanghai to join the JdV by Hyatt portfolio

Hyatt Announces Plans for the World's First FILA-Branded Lifestyle Hotel in Shanghai

CHICAGO  Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) and ANTA Sports Products Co., Ltd. (ANTA Group) announced plans for the first-of-its-kind FILA-branded hotel in Shanghai – FILA HOUSE Shanghai. The hotel will make its mark on the global stage as the inaugural FILA-branded hotel in the world and by joining the JdV by Hyatt brand, FILA HOUSE Shanghai will bring a vibrant new experience to the local hotel scene.

FILA, a global sports brand with a strong lifestyle appeal with more than 100 years of history, has gained recognition among high-end consumers for its unique fusion of fitness and fashion that is both sporty and stylish. In China, the Italian brand is owned and managed by ANTA, one of the country’s leading global sportswear companies, which has successfully positioned FILA at the premium end of sports fashion with a brand concept of “Live Your Elegance,” combining elegance with vitality.

The development of FILA HOUSE Shanghai marks the first time FILA China is extending its brand into the lifestyle hotel space, as FILA’s vision for this hotel aligns with the JdV by Hyatt brand’s ethos. Embracing the brand’s namesake (joie de vivre), the JdV by Hyatt brand offers a collection of independent properties that are true reflections of the urban neighborhoods they call home, inviting guests and locals alike to connect and celebrate the joy of life while unwinding in spaces designed with distinctive personality. This, together with the FILA brand’s free-spirited attitude and legacy of style designed for life in motion, will create a one-of-a-kind experience that appeals to today’s young travelers seeking to live in the moment.  

Stephen Ho, president of growth and operations, Asia Pacific for Hyatt, said, “We are thrilled to be working with ANTA Group and FILA China to develop the first FILA HOUSE hotel in the world. We look forward to welcoming guests, locals and a new generation of FILA fans with the JdV by Hyatt brand’s inclusive, heartfelt and joy-driven service.”

Brian Yiu, CEO of FILA China, said, “We are excited to be collaborating with Hyatt on the world’s first FILA-branded lifestyle hotel. Not only will the hotel be a unique expression of FILA’s history, culture, products and fashion trends, we believe that the young-at-heart JdV by Hyatt brand experience will be a fitting reflection of FILA’s spirit of vitality.”

FILA HOUSE Shanghai will be developed as part of the new Shanghai headquarters of ANTA Group in Shanghai’s West Hongqiao Business District, an area that is fast establishing itself as a center of Shanghai international trade, with excellent transportation links and a vibrant community of business and industry. Located across five independent buildings, housing headquarter office, shops, food and beverage outlets, the unique eco-friendly headquarters complex is envisioned to be a destination for sports retail as well as a space to showcase the latest trends in sports apparel. The complex, including FILA HOUSE Shanghai, is expected to open by 2024.

For more information about the JdV by Hyatt portfolio, please visit hyatt.com/brands/jdv-by-hyatt.

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and / or one or more of its affiliates.

For further information:

About JdV by Hyatt

A community for the spirited, the light-hearted, the young-at-heart, the JdV by Hyatt brand offers a collection of vibrant, independent hotels that are true reflections of the urban neighborhoods we call home. Embracing its namesake (joie de vivre), the JdV by Hyatt brand invites guests and locals alike to connect, live in the moment and celebrate the joy of life. Each hotel provides an experience that is inclusive in spirit and space, inviting all to make each stay yours truly. Follow @JDVHotels on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for news and updates. For more information, please visit www.jdvbyhyatt.com.

About FILA

International sportswear giant Fila was established in Biella, Italy in 1911, nestled among the foothills of the Italian Alps. Fila gained global attention for its instantly recognisable tennis apparel in the 1970s, and has since expanded their design portfolio to include sporting apparel across a wide range of codes including golf, training, running and compression wear. While their technical processes are at the forefront of sporting design, the brand remains true to its time-honoured European aesthetic and outfits professional artists and athletes from around the world. From small northern Italian town beginnings over 100 years ago, Fila has evolved into one of the world’s most reliable sports lifestyle brands. Our legacy of style earns us admiration to this day. Whether you perform for the challenge of adventure, the rigor of competition, or simply the pleasure and well-being of an active life. Fila understands that the beauty of sport is that, of a life in motion. A worldwide leader in sporting and lifestyle shoes and apparel, Fila champions its heritage Italian design DNA while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of modern performance wear.

About ANTA Sports Products Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1991, ANTA Sports is an integrated sportswear group, principally engaged in the design, manufacture, sales and operation of sportswear including footwear, apparel and accessories. After 30 years of development, ANTA has grown from a traditional private company into an internationally competitive listed corporation with modern governance standards. In 2021, ANTA Group determined the development strategy of "Single-Focus, Multi-Brand and Globalization". The Group owns many well-known Chinese and international sports brands such as ANTA (China), FILA (Italy), DESCENTE (Japan), KOLON (Korea), and SPRANDI (UK), as well as sub-brand series such as ANTA KIDS, FILA KIDS, FILA FUSION and FILA ATHLETICS.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of December 31, 2021, the Company’s portfolio included more than 1,150 hotel and all-inclusive properties in 70 countries across six continents. The Company's offering includes the Park Hyatt®, Miraval®, Grand Hyatt®, Alila®, Andaz®, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®, Destination by HyattTM, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt®, Hyatt ZivaTM, Hyatt ZilaraTM, Thompson Hotels®, Hyatt Centric®, Caption by Hyatt, JdV by HyattTM, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Place®, UrCove, and Hyatt Residence Club® brands, as well as resort and hotel brands under the AMRTM Collection, including Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Sunscape® Resorts & Spas. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.

Appointment | Conrad Pune appoints Dinesh Maan as Director of Food & Beverage

Conrad Pune appoints Dinesh Maan as Director of Food & Beverage

Pune, Conrad Pune is delighted to announce the appointment of Dinesh Maan as the Director of Food & Beverage. Maan will be responsible for the entire F&B operations across the 7 distinguished restaurants and bars at the luxury property. His new position will be focused on marketing and generating revenues for the F&B division.

Maan brings over 13 years of professional expertise in the hospitality industry which includes converting strategic direction to quantifiable results with a focus on day-to-day operations. His areas of operations will be to maximize employee productivity, integrate F&B trends into Conrad’s culinary offerings, further enhance the hygiene & safety standards and align F&B activities in tandem with maintaining smooth operations.

On Maan’s appointment, says Rahul Bhagat, Director of Operations, “Dinesh has been associated with the F&B operations since the pre-opening days of the hotel and we are delighted to see his progress towards being the director of F&B. The Conrad team is excited about his new leadership role and we are sure he will continue to contribute strongly to the hotel’s notable repute in the region as he has over the years”.

Regarded as a customer-centric and performance-driven F&B professional, Maan has been the driving force behind the operations of several well-established hotel brands in India. Graduate in Bachelor of Hospitality Management from National Institute of Hotel Management Dehradun, Maan enjoys spending quality time with family in his leisure time.

Appointment | Fairmont Dubai announces the appointment of Nawaf Abdelaziz Nayef Hassan as Director of Operations a

Fairmont Dubai announces the appointment of Nawaf Abdelaziz Nayef Hassan as the Director of Operations

DUBAI, February 2022 - Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, the global luxury hotel group,

is pleased to announce the key appointment of its Director of Operations, Nawaf Abdelaziz

Nayef Hassan, effective as of February 2022. Nawaf will play a key role in overlooking the

operations of the iconic hotel across all functions and ensuring the highest levels of guest

satisfaction.

Nawaf comes with a rich experience of over 20 years of progressive experience in the

hospitality industry, having previously worked with leading hotels brands. Nawaf has a proven

track record in the industry. Committed to bringing out the best in his team, he attributes

mentoring as evidently the key to achieving the goals. Nawaf started his career in his home

country in Kempinski Dead Sea Jordan as Restaurant Supervisor. Two years later, he then

moved to Abu Dhabi and joined Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara as the Assistant

Outlet Manager in 2009.

He then joined the pre-opening team of another hotel Qasr al Sarab

Desert Resort by Anantara as the Outlet Manager. Prior to taking his current role as Director of

Operations of Fairmont Dubai, Nawaf joined Radisson Blu Hotel, Downtown Dubai, as the

Outlet Manager, then later moved his way up to Food and Beverage Manager in 2011 in

Radisson Blue Resort, Sharjah, then transitioned to the role of Director of Operations/Acting

hotel manager.

At Fairmont Dubai, he will be responsible for leading the team to ensure full compliance

to Hotel operating controls, SOP’s, policies, procedures and service standards. Nawaf will focus

on demonstrating to guests and colleagues a commitment to service excellence through the

effective implementation and delivery of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Core Standards at all times.

Commenting on his appointment, Nawaf stated, “I am thrilled to become part of the

Fairmont Hotels family and to be able to contribute to the development and the growth of such

a prestigious brand”. I look forward to working with the entire team on further elevating the

bespoke service and innovative guest experience.”

“An eclectic and accomplished man like Nawaf will allow us to design an even more

solid corporate structure and accelerate the expansion of the hotel, which is already underway.

I am delighted that he has chosen to work with us,” comments Kosta Kourotsidis, General

Manager, of Fairmont Dubai.

BCIHMCT International Hotel, Travel and Research Conference: "Renaissance 2.0: Re-think, Re-build & Re-coup”

BCIHMCT International Hotel, Travel and Research Conference: "Renaissance 2.0: Re-think, Re-build & Re-coup”

Encouraged by the resounding success of the previous editions, BCIHMCT is hosting its 12th edition of the International Hotel, Travel and Research Conference from 03rd to 05th March 2022 themed "Renaissance 2.0: Re-think, Re-build & Re-coup” focusing on the hospitality and tourism sector through the application of theory and practices viewed from the perspective of issues prevailing worldwide due to the current pandemic situation. The aim of the conference is to evolve constructive deliberations on, and to discuss and devise future strategies to re-think, re-build and re-coup tourism, travel and hospitality sector. 

The objective of this three-day conference is to bring together stakeholders for the purpose of creating a platform for sharing, discussing and synergizing various hospitality and tourism strategies, practices and also measures to mitigate the economic  and other losses the hospitality and tourism industry has suffered.

The importance of this conference is to come to conclusions that enable the industry to bounce back in the post-pandemic scenario. Also, to bring together prominent names from the tourism and hospitality sectors to express an opinion on the trends being witnessed globally in the form of steps being taken to recover and revive the tourism business.

The conference seeks to discuss the erosion caused by the pandemic on the hospitality sector as an industry. The measures that are necessary to be adopted to bridge the gap and take the hospitality sector back to the pre-pandemic levels are an intrinsic component of the discourse initiated under the aegis of the conference. 

IIHTTRC will include formal presentations, workshops, and academic-industry interaction through industry-related forum. Apart from the regular presentations, the conference will include keynote addresses by eminent speakers and experts from both industry and academia along with approximately 400 participants. The previous conferences held at BCIHMCT, were well attended by national and international delegates. 

Some of the International speakers and resource persons who would be enlightening the august audience during IIHTTR Conference 2022 are:

• Prof. Shunsaku Hashimoto, Full Professor and Associate Dean, Faculty of Global and Regional Studies, University of the Ryukyus, Japan

• Prof Ian Yeoman, Associate Professor of Tourism Futures, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, visiting Professors - European Tourism Futures Institute and Ulster University. Co-editor, Journal of Tourism Futures

• Dr. Lucília Cardoso, Researcher of CITUR – Centre for Tourism Research, Development and Innovation, Portugal, Assembly President- Portuguese Graduates Association in Switzerland (AGRAPS) and General Secretary-Swiss Chapter of the International Federation for IT and Travel & Tourism (IFITT) 

• Dr Kevser Çınar, Necmettin Erbakan University, Turkey, Vice President of Euro Asia Tourism Studies Association & Editor-in-chief, Euro-Asia Tourism Studies Journal (EATSJ) 

• Highlighting the issues, IIHTRC 2022 will further have a workshop on research on the topic “Research Problem Identification” by Dr. Rajnish Ratna, Associate Professor, Gedu College of Business Studies, Royal University of Bhutan apart from presentation of various research papers.

Original articles, research papers and case studies that highlight the issues related to the theme in different aspects from academicians, practitioners and policy makers are invited. Selected quality papers shall be published in the annual Hospitality Management Journal indexed in India Citation Index (ICI), “Indian Journal of Applied Hospitality & Tourisms Research”. Selected papers from the conference will also be published in an ISBN Edited Book. 

Appointment | Sita Lekshmi is the new General Manager at Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park

Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park appoints Sita Lekshmi as General Manager

She will be responsible to create new business opportunities, develop talent, development plans, and guidelines to maintain market leadership

Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park has appointed Sita Lekshmi as the new General Manager. An enthusiastic hotelier with an urge to create innovative and bespoke experiences, she comes with over 15 years of experience.

An effective leader, in her new role she will lead complete operations at the hotel. She will be responsible to create new business opportunities, develop talent, development plans, and guidelines to maintain market leadership. With her skills and experience, she aims to build Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park as a preferred destination for social gatherings including weddings and a sought after space for Gen-Y travellers. 

Lekshmi plans to take Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park to the next level by creating more interesting business plans and offerings for business travellers to have a comfortable stay and for millennials to relax and unwind. She has a proven track record of leading and executing business strategies.

Lekshmi holds a B.Sc degree in Hospitality Administration from IHM Kovalam, followed by an MBA degree in Human Resources Management and a PGDM in Guest Service Management from Oberoi Centre of Learning & Development. She commenced her hospitality journey by working with Oberoi Hotels for the first seven years of her career in F&B and room division.

She joined Accor in 2014 in sales and marketing. She grew her way in sales to become Director of Sales and then moved back to operations in 2019 as Rooms Division Manager. Lekshmi’s last assignment was at the ibis Kochi City Centre as General Manager before joining Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park at Outer Ring Road

Lekshmi is a state council member of the Women’s Indian Chamber of Commerce, India, Hospitality and Tourism- Kerala chapter. Through this platform, she has conducted various activities during the second wave of the pandemic to ensure the mental well-being of not only female hoteliers but also the members of the hospitality industry as a whole.  She is a fitness enthusiast and a yoga lover. When not at work, she loves to paint, garden, and read.

Appointment | Absolute Hotel Services promotes Prashant Shewale as Regional Manager – Revenue & Distribution

He joined Absolute Hotel Services at Eastin Easy Aishwarya Talegaon as Front Office Manager and was later promoted to Rooms Division Manager

Absolute Hotel Services India has promoted Prashant Shewale as Regional Manager – Revenue & Distribution. A hotel management graduate, he did his Business Administration from Greenwich University.

Shewale has over a decade of experience in operations, predominantly in the rooms division, with a sizeable tenure in the UK, notably with ibis and Novotel.

He joined Absolute Hotel Services at Eastin Easy Aishwarya Talegaon as Front Office Manager and outperformed to be promoted as Rooms Division Manager. Astute with numbers and a slant towards analytics, he has shown immense interest in understanding markets, revenue models, distribution networks and its implication on business.  

“Absolute Hotel Services as a hotel operator is known to recognize, develop and nurture talent, empowering individuals to flourish in their space of interest. Homegrown aptitude always gives us the advantage of a clear understanding of our vision, culture, work style amongst other characteristics, hence Prashant’s advancement is in line with our Human Resource practices, as we keep increasing our footprints. Revenue and Distribution is one of our key pillars in our management process and he will fittingly shoulder this responsibility”, said Shalil Suvarna, VP – Operations & Pre-Opening of Absolute Hotel Services India

UAE restaurants can return to pre-covid-19 conditions with 100 percent capacity

The UAE has eased capacity and social distance restrictions that were imposed on restaurants and venues across the country.

In line with the decision of the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, the capacity restrictions on food establishments have now been removed. Restaurants can return to pre-covid-19 conditions with 100 percent capacity.

Restaurant employees and customers need to still wear a facemask. Moreover, disinfection protocols remain unchanged.

Shisha cafes can return to 100 percent capacity with strict adherence to the standards of the Federal Tobacco Control Law, which states that two square meters per person in the smoking area. 

As of Friday, February 25, the UAE reported 696 Covid-19 cases, 1,916 recoveries, 1 death.