Factors propelling the growth of the Airport Lounge Industry’ by Liberatha Peter Kallat, Chairperson and Managing Director, DreamFolks Service Limited.

Factors propelling the growth of the Airport Lounge Industry

The aviation sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors in India. The need for high-speed mobility across the subcontinent facilitates the growth of the aviation sector in India. Passengers carried by domestic airlines during January 2022 to April 2022 period were 356.80 lakhs as against 291.08 lakhs during the corresponding period of the previous year, registering an annual growth of 22.58% and monthly growth of 90.05%. The upward trend in passenger traffic indicates that consumer demand is also demonstrating an upward trend. The Global aviation sector had taken a hit due to the COVID-induced lockdowns, however, as of today, the revival phase has been smooth, with the accelerated pace and coverage of the vaccine roll-out as well as an easing of travel restrictions domestically and globally. Over the years, the government has taken crucial steps to tide over the pandemic-induced crisis and further the growth of the Indian aviation sector.

In April 2022, all Indian airports together handled 198.22 thousand aircraft movements and 24.34 million passengers. As of 2022, there were roughly 130 operational airports in India. To speed up the momentum, the Indian Government plans to spend around INR 1 trillion to set up new airports by 2024. The Indian Government has planned on investing roughly USD 1.83 billion by 2026 for the development of airport infrastructure. It is expected to increase to 295 operational airports by 2040, which are a combination of the second airport within the same city and new Greenfield projects. The initial regulations that hindered the development of a second airport within the same city have been removed. With such development underway, India is expected to be the third-largest air travel market by 2030 according to IATA (International Air Transport Association). The Indian aircraft fleet is also expected to grow 3X and reach around 2200 aircraft by 2040. India’s GDP growth to domestic air traffic growth is 1.8x and on total air traffic growth is 1.4x from FY 2010 to FY 2020. The aviation sector’s direct impact on GDP is recorded to be USD 3.5 Trillion, i.e., 4.1% of Global GDP in 2019. By the year 2038, the aviation sector is expected to account for USD 6.3 Trillion of the Global Economy (Source: Frost & Sullivan Industry Report).

A major asset monetizing exercise has also been undertaken by the Indian government, i.e. the privatization of 13 airports. The government has been aiming for the private investment of Rs 3,660 crore in airports by FY24. Presently, the AAI has approved the privatization of 6 major airports which include, Bhubaneshwar, Varanasi, Amritsar, Trichy, Indore, and Raipur. Therefore, the privatization of airports can be viewed as a key opportunity for lounge operators, as the upgradations for these airports are expected to enhance the overall customer travel experience. Airport authorities and airport service providers are now focusing on adapting to the new normal and the ideas of how to best cope with challenges as well as enhance the overall travel. They are overhauling their business models to survive in a newly competitive and dynamic market.

Passengers also have now evolved and are expecting superior services, earlier restricted to only business or first-class travelers, to be made accessible to a large chunk of economy travelers. The focus has shifted towards passenger experience, with the number of Indian passengers traveling by air increasing from approximately 99 million in CY 2015 to 167 million in CY 2019. The number of passengers availing of lounge facilities has also increased from 5.1 million in FY2018 to 7.5 million in FY2020. The number of lounges is expected to grow at an average of 10% YoY between 2021 and 2040. Over the next two decades, the number of lounges is expected to increase to 193 from the 50 lounges operating at present. The airport lounge access market in India is expected to grow at a CAGR of 43.11% by FY2030 to Rs 5,861.9 crore from Rs 358.9 crore in FY22. 

Government initiatives like UDAN, roll out of ePassports in 2022-23, airport infrastructure development in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, increase in the demographic dividend, increase in per capita income and GDP growth are expected to increase the percentage of air traffic from even smaller airports, which will augur well for airport lounge service providers, due to the improved connectivity and convenience for commuters.

Thus, an increase in passenger traffic and growth in demand within the air travel industry is expected to boost the market growth of airport service providers. The opportunity is driven by technology, social and demographic trends and growth opportunities in Asia and other emerging market economies. By understanding the new landscape, airport lounge service providers can identify the most promising opportunities, manage risks, and mitigate the odds of gaining the best returns. The onus lies on them to create sustainable bespoke solutions that provide a truly differentiated superior global experience, through the use of robust technology, thereby enhancing the overall traveler experience.

Source: 

• Monthly Summary of May 2022.pdf (civilaviation.gov.in)

• Frost & Sullivan Industry Report (Dec 2021)

Drunken Monkey set to launch operations in the United States

Drunken Monkey set to launch operations in the United States

July 2022: Drunken Monkey – India’s premier and largest smoothie chain brand has announced its expansion into the overseas market. In the coming months, White Monkey F&B LLP (the holding company behind DM) will launch its first-ever international outlets in the United States, which is considered one of the biggest markets for smoothies in the world. In fact, it singly-handily accounts for over 35% of the global smoothie market share.

Founded in 2016 by Samrat Reddy, Drunken Monkey is the only Indian smoothie brand with a pan-country presence. Headquartered in Hyderabad, the brand has grown exponentially since its launch and the consistent success and growth of the brand can be gauged from its growth from four smoothie bars in Hyderabad in the first year, to over 130 outlets in 45+ Indian cities by 2022. The brand has grown from strength to strength and has successfully brought about a ‘smoothie revolution’ in India.

Taking this vision and its blends of immensely popular smoothies and smoothie bowls further into newer territories, Drunken Monkey plans to start with two retail outlets in Western America before expanding into other parts of the country. The initial set of smoothie bars will be launched in the states of Georgia and Texas, which have shown tremendous growth in the fresh beverage category over the past few years.

Post expansion into the United States, Drunken Monkey will be further sailing to other parts of the world. By the end of the 2022-23 fiscal year, the brand will open multiple stores in the Middle East and Southeast Asian countries in addition to the United States.

“India has a lot to offer to the world in every way imaginable. And its high time we showcase our home-grown brands to the rest of the world. This is in fact Drunken Monkey's first baby step, in the exciting journey of having our footsteps across the globe.”  Said, Samrat Reddy, Founder Drunken Monkey.

About Drunken Monkey:

Drunken Monkey is one of India’s fastest-growing smoothie chains founded by Samrat Reddy. The brand believes that nature has a lot to offer to us and strives in creating unique and delicious smoothie blends that are both functional and fun-ranging from detox, meal replacements, hydration, and protein smoothies, to healthy veggie smoothies and hangover warriors. Drunken Monkey has one of the most versatile menus on the planet and offers over 200 types of Smoothies and Smoothie Bowls made from specially blended combinations of fruits, healthy veggies, dry fruits, and healthy seasonings like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chia and basil seeds. All the blends are completely natural and are made fresh with zero addition of any artificial flavors, sugars, preservatives or any kind of concentrates.

TTF Hyderabad is staging a grand revival of travel and tourism, in the post-pandemic phase

TTF Hyderabad is staging a grand revival of travel & tourism, in the post-pandemic phase

The first major show in Southern India in the very important post-pandemic phase of FY 2022-23 - TTF Hyderabad kicks off at the world-class venue of Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC).

Hyderabad: July 2022: Travel and tourism from India is bouncing back in full vigour after two years of pandemic-related disruptions. TTF Hyderabad, the best networking platform for Central & Southern India, is staging a grand post-pandemic rebound of domestic and international travel, with over 150 participants from 4 countries and over 19 Indian states and UTs.

Domestic leisure travel is the driving force behind the road to recovery coupled with an increase in business travel as well, after an extremely tough pandemic phase in the last two years. Domestic travel is expected to reach record-breaking numbers, with 68% of Indians expected to travel domestically in 2022 only, with the Central and Southern India markets playing a major role. As per reports, Kerala alone has attracted 3.8 million domestic tourists in Q-1 2022, registering 72.48% growth.

Domestic air passenger traffic is nearing pre-pandemic levels with various airlines having ferried 1.14 crore air travellers in May 2022 compared with 1.22 crore in May 2019 - roughly a five-fold increase in volume growth from last year. International passenger traffic has also seen tremendous growth since flights were resumed fully in the month of March 2022, after two years of restrictions, and reached 72% of the pre-Covid level in May 2022.

Hotel occupancy had fallen below 50% in January 2022 owing to the Omicron impact; however, it hit 65% occupancy level, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and average daily rate (ADR) for three consecutive days during the second week of April.

TTF is India’s largest travel trade show network, organised in 9 Indian cities annually, branded as TTF, OTM and BLTM. This edition of TTF Hyderabad staging the grand revival of travel is especially important, being the catalyst for the huge rebound of domestic and international travel markets.

Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh are joining as Partner States with big pavilions. Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya and Puducherry are Feature States and will be showcasing their best in the TTF. Host states Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are offering their full support. Private sector participants from all over India are also joining us at the show.

The show has participation from leading outbound exhibitors like Jazeera Airways and leading hospitality chains.

TTF Hyderabad has also a large participation from abroad including from Nepal, Thailand, Turkey and UAE, with a large delegation of tour operators and hoteliers holding testimony to the unabated spirit of Indian travellers that kept thronging these destinations throughout the pandemic, as they remained open with necessary precautions in place. It also signifies that short-haul destinations are becoming accessible faster to the Indian travellers, post the pandemic.

TTF Hyderabad was inaugurated in the august presence of Shri V. Srinivas Goud, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Excise & Prohibition, Sports and Youth Services, Archaeology, Government of Telangana, Shri Sandeep Kumar Sultania, IAS Secretary Tourism, Government of Telangana, Shri B. Manohar, Managing Director, Telangana State Tourism Dev. Corpn. and other dignitaries from India and abroad.

India Tourism too has a key presence at the show, showcasing all their campaigns and programmes such as ‘Azaadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, ‘Dekho Apna Desh’, ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’.

The show is reserved for travel trade visitors today, i.e. 5th July, from 11 am to 6 pm, and is open for the whole day tomorrow, i.e. 6th July.

The travel trade is expected to revive and restart in large numbers, with new as well as existing partners. Eager travellers have planned to visit the show to get the best deals and travel offers from all over India.

TTF is the oldest and biggest network of travel trade shows in the country, covering 9 cities annually. In addition to Hyderabad, it is organised in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Surat and Pune.

“We are extremely happy to be hosting TTF Hyderabad in the vibrant market of South India after a two-year hiatus. The number of exhibitors on the show floor and of hosted buyers as well as of visitors is a testimony of the grand rebound of travel and tourism in the post-pandemic phase”, said Sanjiv Agarwal, Chairman & CEO, Fairfest Media Ltd., the organisers of TTF - the oldest and largest travel tradeshow network in India. “TTF Hyderabad has received great support from the Host States, the travel industry at large and our association partners who are together gearing up for the revival of travel and tourism.”, he added.

TTF has the active support of travel associations like IATO, ETAA, TAAI, TAFI, ADTOI, NIMA, SKAL INTERNATIONAL HYDERABAD, IATTE, TOA, TTAA, TOAT, TTAT, UFTC, KTS, TAAC, TTTHA, TAAK, TNTF, ABTO, FOTO, STATT and MTA.

Appointment | Sayaji Raipur Appoints Mr. Anurag Mathur as General Manager

Sayaji Raipur Appoints Mr. Anurag Mathur as General Manager

Raipur, July, 2022: SAYAJI, Raipur is pleased to announce that Mr. Anurag Mathur has been appointed the hotel’s new General Manager. 

At the onset of his career in 1995 Mr. Anurag Mathur was appointed as a Chef in Charge at the Jaypee Vasant Continental, Delhi. He also worked as an Executive Chef at the Hotel Jaypee Residency Manor, Mussori from 2007 to 2012, and at Hotel Jaypee Palace, Agra from 2012 -2013. Mr. Anurag has demonstrated effective leadership and efficient management in all aspects of the hotel’s operations of 6 F&B outlets and extensive banqueting of Jaypee Hotels

Mr. Anurag holds a Diploma from the Institute of Hotel Management Catering & Nutrition, Bhopal (1990-1993) and is an ISO lead auditor (Level -2). Aforetime joining Sayaji he fulfilled his responsibility as a General Manager (Operations) at Isthara Parks Private Limited Bangalore, as a city head responsible for managing operations of India’s leading Co-living Brand. And as a Room Division Manager at DoubleTree Suites by  Hilton , Bangalore.

Mr. Anurag Mathur had the following to say about his appointment: “I am delighted to have been granted this opportunity to become the hotel’s General Manager. I will be working hard to achieve even higher levels of hospitality, delivering our guests the kind of resort experience that only Sayaji Raipur can offer and building an enduring love for our hotel.”

With his 26-year career in the hospitality industry and extensive knowledge and experience of luxury brands at DoubleTree Suites by  Hilton , Bangalore, and Hotel Jaypee, General Manager Mathur is a great asset to Sayaji, Raipur. The hotel will continue to provide guests with memorable experiences and uphold the traditions of which Sayaji is so proud while striving to further enhance service quality and brand value in the future.

Travel Trade submits its Frustration to the GST increase: TAAI

Be it the travel trade or many other allied and associated industries like hospitality were expecting a decline or perhaps a better GST taxation system in place, as an outcome of the 47th GST Council meeting held in Chandigarh on 29th June 2022. However, recommendations made to the Government by GoM on rate rationalization came as a surprise to the various industries, including travel trade and tourism. Post going through the worst crises ever in human history, now when the industry is reviving, a sudden increase in tax slabs is the biggest deterrent to growth, eventually leading to discouraging the tourism fraternity.

In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Minister of Finance, Government of India; Jyoti Mayal, President, TAAI submitted the frustration and conveyed that we were looking at the government to do away with taxes and extend support to our industry which is yet to revive from the long crises. However, with the increase, travel trade and hospitality will have to face the brunt majorly. Imposing 12% GST on hotels priced below INR 1000 is the biggest jolt to both the travel and hospitality industry. Hospitality offered below INR 1000 drives the system and an increase at that level will take employment and business opportunities from many, Mayal added.

Jay Bhatia, Vice President specifically pointed out the increase in cheque payments from Nil to 18%. He said that we the people in the travel industry work at the grass-root level. And, till today, in tier II and III cities the preferred mode of payment by a financial instrument like a cheque. An increase in taxation of making and receiving payments will add a burden on both the agent and traveler, which may perhaps push travelers to move away from registered and legitimate agents to illegal business operators which is a matter to worry about, supplemented Bhatia.

Referring to the increase from 12% to 18% on items such as Printing, Spoons, Forks, Machines for cleaning eggs, fruits and other products. Bettaiah Lokesh, Hon. Secretary-General said that the hike in taxation on such items would certainly lead to an increase in serving and servicing the end product. We do agree that there are a few points which are appreciable like Exemption on the transport of passengers by air to and from NE states, renting of truck/ goods carriage, etc. However, overall recommendations made give the impression of increasing taxation burden on the businesses exorbitantly, shared Lokesh. Further to TAAI’s long-pending request to permit Input Tax Credits for Tour Operators booking hotels in other states to vide, IGST, still remains unresolved at the Government level at the GST Council. To our understanding, GST was introduced to have uniform taxation and easy filing, and in addition, to have a better understanding for both service provider and receiver regarding the taxation’s slabs.

However, the increase and introduction of a tax on items directly related to travel trade and tourism, we see it as a negative sentiment spreading in the businesses, highlighted Shreeram Patel, Hon. Treasurer. TAAI has submitted, along with the frustration representation, a copy of previous submissions made to Finance Ministry on the said subject to the Hon’ble Minister.

Tekla Maira is the new Regional DOS- India for Banyan Tree

Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts appoints Tekla Maira as the Regional Director of Sales – India for its five key hotels and resorts in Thailand, namely Banyan Tree Bangkok, Banyan Tree Phuket, Angsana Laguna Phuket, Cassia Phuket and Homm Bliss Southbeach Patong.

Commenting on the appointment Benjawan Meksakul, Regional Director of Sales & Marketing – Thailand & Laos of Banyan Tree Group, said, “Tekla’s expertise and rich experience will see her implementing innovative sales and marketing strategies for our Thailand hotels post-COVID and create greater awareness for the global multi-brand ecosystem of Banyan Tree Group in India.”

The Hyatt Regency brand enters the Pink City with Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar

The Hyatt Regency brand enters the Pink City with Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar

The 245-room property strengthens Hyatt’s brand presence in India, marking the first Hyatt Regency hotel in the state of Rajasthan

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced the opening of Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar. The property underlines Hyatt’s focus on strengthening its brand presence across urban and resort destinations in India. In line with the Hyatt Regency’s brand philosophy, the hotel has been designed with productivity in mind to deliver seamless experiences and an energizing hub for both business and leisure travelers alike.

As Rajasthan continues to be an important destination for Hyatt guests, the opening marks the third Hyatt hotel in one of India’s most sought-after tourist destinations. Spread across an area of approximately five acres, Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar is conveniently located in the scenic surroundings of Mansarovar in Jaipur.

In addition to being situated near the renowned ISKCON temple, Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar also offers easy access to iconic landmarks and shopping attractions such as Hawa Mahal and World Trade Park. It is also well-connected to major Indian cities through air and rail services and national highways. With its rich architecture, vast event spaces and landscaped gardens, Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar promises to be the ideal destination for weddings, family holidays and travelers visiting the state to experience the rich heritage of Jaipur. 

“As one of the most preferred and culturally rich destinations for Indian and global travelers, we are extremely excited to welcome guests and World of Hyatt members to Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar,” said Nikhil Gandhi, general manager Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar. “With its opening, there are now three Hyatt hotels in Rajasthan, reiterating Hyatt’s focus on growing its brand presence in destinations where guests prefer to travel.”

Guestrooms

Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar presents the perfect combination of classic architecture and contemporary décor to create a stylish, functional experience for the guests. The 245-room property is spread across two wings – the Royal Wing and the Tower Wing – and guests can enjoy accommodations across various room categories, including 34 suites. The Royal Wing brings 65 Royal rooms, 41 Regency Club rooms, nine Royal Deluxe rooms, and four categories of Suites – including Royal Majestic, Royal Prestige, Royal Diplomat and the Presidential Suite. The spacious rooms come with traditional projecting stone windows known in India as jharokas that provide guests with a bird’s eye view of the central courtyard. The Tower Wing offers 96 Standard Rooms and eight Regency Executive Suites. 

Dining

Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar presents a range of dining experiences that capture the essence of local culture and reiterates Hyatt’s commitment to care for local communities. For those seeking an authentic culinary experience, Shrot, which means “source,” offers organic, locally sourced, regional delicacies. The North Club carries forward the timeless club culture of Jaipur and offers food influenced by the traders and colonisers who set up homes in the Indian sub-continent decades ago. The Royal Bakery and Bar serves freshly brewed coffee, a selection of pastries and signature cakes, along with time-honored classic cocktails at the bar.

Special Events

Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar offers distinct event spaces that define the grandeur and flamboyance of Rajasthani architecture. With over 53,000 square feet (5,000 square meters) of function space, the hotel offers thematic indoor spaces for large and private gatherings and expansive outdoor locations with a magnificent backdrop of the hotel. Designed to host a range of events including weddings, corporate meetings, and social gatherings the indoor venues include The Regency Ballroom, The Imperial Room and The Manor, and the outdoor venues include Navras Bagh and Chauras Bagh.

Differentiated Experiences for guests

The wedding experience becomes even more special at Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar with Married at Hyatt, the wedding planning service provided at Hyatt hotels in India. The program offers membership to Hyatt’s lifestyle and luxury rewards program, the Hyatt Dining Club, to the couple and their family members, who can enjoy a range of exclusive offers, rewards and experiences at Hyatt’s participating hotels across India.

Recreation and Wellness

Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar is a perfect setting for a peaceful and relaxing stay. The Mudita Spa presents a wide selection of Indian and contemporary spa therapies and treatments. The StayFit Studio offers 24-hour access to dedicated trainers and cardio and strength training equipment. The hotel also features an outdoor swimming area with a separate pool for children.

Appointment | Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar brings Shruti Sengupta on board to spearhead the marketing

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar is pleased to announce Shruti Sengupta as the newly appointed Manager of Marketing Communication. She will be responsible to lead the diverse integrated marketing and communication projects, promoting brand strategies and initiatives and providing the best hospitality experience to the guests at the property. Shruti with her experience of almost a decade in hospitality will also be heading the promotional campaign including ideation and implementation of marketing strategies, digital marketing, and establishing brand positioning for the launch of the luxurious villas of Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar slated towards the end of this year.

Shruti’s last assignment was with Hyatt Pune where she was instrumental in single-handedly leading the marketing communication vertical for five years and was responsible for the execution of activations with the Thailand, Malaysian and Korean Embassy; brand tie-ups for AR Rehman, Amit Trivedi and Sanam, Neeta Lulla show and concerts, the relaunch of iconic and award-winning restaurant Baan Tao Thaisala along with channeling through innovative marketing strategies during the pandemic to ensure sustained revenues for the hotel.

Shruti also has been associated with The Westin Pune Koregaon Park and was part of the launch of Courtyard by Marriott Chakan before her stint with public relations agencies Genesis BM and Hanmer in Mumbai.

Speaking on her appointment at Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar, she asserts, “I am elated to come back into the Marriott family and Courtyard Mahabaleshwar was perfect since it allows me to venture into leisure/destination hospitality segment after handling three city hotels. The end of this year also promises to be exhilarating with the launch of our villas and spa that would further strengthen our positioning in the market.”

Empathetic by nature and a firm believer in grit and hard work, Shruti thrives on the dynamics and opportunities provided in the hospitality industry. When not in the hotel, Shruti loves to spend time with her toddler and travel the world.

Beat the Monsoon Blues - at Magna Cafe’s new Sizzler Festival Menu

Beat the Monsoon Blues - at Magna Cafe’s new Sizzler Festival Menu 

~ Because when it drizzles, it sizzles ~

Mumbai, July 2022: Popular cafe and bar, Magna is known for its unique affair of one-of-a-kind food courses and situated at the Thane club, is all set to welcome monsoon with the launch of their Sizzler Festival Menu. The menu will launch on the 1st of July,2022. 

Keeping in mind, their rooftop ambiance and cozy atmosphere, their menu consists of 19 different types of sizzlers, keeping in mind some classics and a few with a twist. To top it all, the grandeur of Magna is unmatched, as this premium all-day brunch and bar-cafe is breaking the stereotype in Thane by bringing in a fresh breath with its magnanimous view and an accessible price point in the neighborhood.

The festival menu is been thoughtfully curated that consist of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, for one to select from. For the veg, the highlights are the Vegetable Satellite Sizzler, Paneer Shashlik Fried Rice Sizzler - Lebanese Paneer Sizzler, Paneer Chilli Sizzler, Peri Peri Paneer, and  Paneer Tikka Sizzler. 

The non-veg option includes Chicken Satellite Sizzler, Chicken Shashlik Fried Rice Sizzler, Chicken Chilli Sizzler, Peri Peri Chicken Sizzler, and Chicken Tikka Sizzler, Fish/Prawns Satellite Sizzler,  Fish/Prawns Shashlik Fried Rice Sizzler, Asian Fish/Prawns Sizzler and more. 

Come join us in a place unlike any other in the vicinity in every sense from interior décor to food and drinks, Magna’s sizzler festival is definitely a must-try, this Monsoon. 

Other Information : 

Time : Monday - Sunday 1pm to 6pm 

Address: The Thane Club, Mohan Kopekar Rd, Louis Wadi, Thane West, Thane, Maharashtra 400604

IHG signs a new Holiday Inn Express hotel in Gujarat

IHG signs a new Holiday Inn Express hotel in Gujarat

 The company is strategically expanding the presence of its leading mainstream brand by tapping into new markets within India

July 2022, New Delhi: IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies has signed a management agreement with Dahej Hotels & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd a subsidiary of Karmvir Group, for a new hotel – Holiday Inn Express Dahej Bharuch Road in Gujarat. The new-built hotel featuring 120 keys is expected to be operational by the first quarter of 2025. The hotel will not only solidify IHG’s presence in the state of Gujarat but also strengthen the company’s growth in secondary markets, in line with the growing demand for quality branded accommodation in the country.    

Strategically located on Dahej Bharuch main road, the hotel will have easy access to all the major companies in Dahej Port city. Dahej is an all-weather direct berthing port with multi-cargo capacity situated on international maritime routes. This makes it the preferred port for the cargo hubs functioning in the northern, western states, and union territories of India. With the excellent accessibility, facilities and hospitality that the brand is known for, the hotel will provide a convenient stay experience for business travelers and port crew.

In addition to featuring modern and fully equipped guest rooms, Holiday Inn Express Dahej Bharuch Road will offer an array of facilities including a ‘Great Room’, a lounge, a gymnasium for guests to relax and unwind. The hotel will also feature an equipped business centre, meeting rooms along with signature amenities reflecting the brand’s promise of providing a comfortable and efficient stay for business guests.

Commenting on the announcement, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG said, “We are delighted to partner with an experienced developers like Dahej Hotels & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd to expand our presence in the state of Gujarat. In line with increasing demand, we recognize the growing potential of secondary markets in India and are strategically introducing our brands to fill the need gap of quality branded accommodation. With signing of Holiday Inn Express Dahej Bharuch Road, we have the first movers’ advantage in the area to become a preferred international hospitality brand for corporate guests visiting the town.”

Parin Nadola, Director, Dahej Hotels & Hospitality Pvt Ltd, added, “We are thrilled to partner with an internationally and locally trusted hospitality brand like IHG to venture into our first hotel project. Holiday Inn Express is a well-established brand in India and is a great fit to cater to demands of guest visiting Dahej and Bharuch. We look forward to a strong partnership with IHG and are confident that the hotel will be a great success when it opens its door to guests.”

IHG® currently has 44 hotels operating across five brands in SWA, including Six Senses, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts®, Crowne Plaza®, Holiday Inn® , Holiday Inn Resort® and Holiday Inn Express®, and has a strong pipeline of 37 hotels due to open in the next 2-3 years.

Numbers as of March 31, 2022

RENEST HOTELS AND RESORTS LAUNCHES THEIR NEWEST PROPERTY IN HARIDWAR

RENEST HOTELS AND RESORTS LAUNCHES THEIR NEWEST PROPERTY IN HARIDWAR
New Delhi, July 2022: India’s fastest-growing boutique hotels & resorts chain, Renest Hotels & Resorts today announced the opening of Renest Haridwar. With this launch, the group has further consolidated its position in the spiritual segment. This is the group‘s third property in the spiritual tourism sector, others being in Shirdi and Tirupati, and the hospitality chain’s tenth hotel in the country. 

Renest Haridwar is an experiential boutique hotel situated on the Rishikesh Highway. The destination is popular for its mythological significance and replete with spirituality. 

The property is spread over 60,000 square feet of the holy land, situated at the Rishikesh Highway adjoining Sridhar Ashram, Motichur Range in Uttarakhand, India. It is within comfortable driving distance to popular tourist attractions such as the Rajaji National Park, and Chilla Tiger Reserve and is also in close proximity to Har ki Pauri and Bharat Mata Mandir. The hotel is well connected to major cities of the country via railways and airways.

Talking about the future vision for Renest Hotels & Resorts, Rahul Rai, Executive Director, UMIL Hotels (Parent company of Renest Hotels and Resorts) said, “The company’s vision is to operate 100 hotels in the next five years and we as boutique hotels & resorts chain plan to offer experiential stays to the guests with our miscellaneous, layered portfolio, wherein we will have something exceptional for contemporary, prudent travellers who seek adventure, serenity and a holistic experience.” 

Vishal Lonkar, General Manager, Brand Development at Renest Hotels and Resorts, while talking about the launch of their new boutique hotel in Haridwar said “We are pleased to announce the launch of Renest Haridwar as this will be one of the newest hotels situated at the Rishikesh Highway and our third venture into the spiritual segment. We hope with our diverse hotel portfolio, virtuous ambience and committed ground staff, we provide memorable and extravagant travel experiences to our patrons.”

Renest Haridwar is a 74 keys hotel with rooms ranging from exquisite balcony rooms, grand suites to comfortable deluxe rooms. Each of the rooms is designed for a comfortable stay, with personalised services, offering warm stays with plush interiors designed sublimely and mindfully with modern amenities. Renest Haridwar has an all-day dining restaurant Tribe which serves delectable multi-cuisine.
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About Renest Hotels & Resorts

Renest Hotels & Resorts is a unique collection of boutique hotels and resorts that offer experiential stays amidst nature, in picturesque locations across India.

Renest Hotels & Resorts do not confine themselves to the four walls and focus to infuse an amalgamation of natural aesthetics and sustainability in the hotels. With hotels and resorts in key locations of temple towns Shirdi, Tirupati and now Haridwar, popular hill station Manali, business hubs Jaipur and Gandhidham, and Wildlife space Bandhavgarh, Renest strives to deliver memorable holiday experiences to all travellers.

Renest Hotels & Resorts care deeply about the people and the ecosystems they are a part of. From growing their own organic produce, rainwater harvesting, and establishing vertical gardens and open skylights, they have incorporated sustainable measures to preserve and protect the environment.

Kerten Hospitality continues to lead the New Age of hospitality With the appointment of Antony Doucet as Chief Experience Officer (CxO) the operating group replaced the traditional Commercial function

Kerten Hospitality continues to lead the New Age of hospitality With the appointment of Antony Doucet as Chief Experience Officer (CxO) the operating group replaced the traditional Commercial function

DUBAI, July , 2022: Kerten Hospitality -  a mixed-use, ESG and lifestyle hospitality group operating hotels, branded residences, collaborative social and business Hubs complemented by food and beverage, under its brands The House Hotel and Residence, Cloud7 Hotel and Residence and Ouspace - is putting their actions where their mouths are by transforming the traditional Commercial function, into a broader role, that includes experiences across the board. From the first owner interaction, to the curation and scouting of their teams, the locally-inspired design and a project’s soft elements, to the way the Group communicates, markets, sells and connects - as human interactions take centre stage in hospitality.

The Chief Experience Officer (CxO) works in very close collaboration with the Operations and Ubbu teams (Ubbu – United. Building a Better Universe, Kerten Hospitality’s ESG initiative) to connect operational practises and processes, with locality and sustainability, packaged in tailored experiences, motivating and supporting teams to be themselves, to create these true human connections. If you own, work or stay in a location, you should get the feel, connect, and experience it truly - easier said than done. It seems to be easier to Globalise everything, then to Localise everything.

Commenting on his new role, Antony Doucet (CxO), who has been the DNA of Kerten Hospitality’s brands for many years and assumed the role of a Chief Experience Officer (CxO) effective July 1st, said: “Brillat Savarin, a French lawyer and politician who wrote The Physiology of Taste used to say: “To invite a guest is to take the responsibility of his happiness during his stay under our roof.” In our Kerten Hospitality way, this would read: To invite guests, is to take the responsibility of their happiness, their emotions during their stay and connect them with our community…”

Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality said: “Antony is a great example of someone who organically creates unique and community-connecting experiences that touch all senses. Antony brings together guests, partners, owners and the local community through purposeful events and interactions. Being a big-picture thinker, Antony has worked hard to inject this DNA into processes, and ways, deeply rooted into the entire organisation. We cannot wait to share our new curated destinations coming out in the next six months in different locations and countries, with a variety of offerings that range from eco-luxury glamping, to hotels with art residency in rural areas, to child-free experience hotels where the lobby is an actual stage.”

Antony who is currently based in Tbilisi, Georgia, for the opening of The House Hotel Old Tbilisi this week, gave some simple examples of how true and real these experiences are. “Just 2 days ago, I organized a meeting with Tako Kvaratskehelia, who’s 26 years old and the founder of Rukhi Queen www.rukhiqueen.ge. She won the silver medal of London Honey Awards in 2021. At only 26 years of age, she has 400 bee hives and her honey is in such demand that she started to create a cooperative with other bee keepers. She met our 2 Chefs Jaume Puigdengolas Michelin star chef, who’s currently training our local Chef Alex Akopyan, and we will now have one signature dessert with her chestnut honey and our welcome amenities will be “Gozinaki” a Georgian specialty with honey and nuts. The idea is really to embrace, support and celebrate this kind of people”

The Group’s multiple UBBU initiatives will further involve guests to donate time for good causes: A great way to do good, to share an experience and to connect to the local community. 

Doucet has helped redefine the Concept of Bleisure, a word he has been using for years, much longer than it has been “in”. Creating environments where Business and Leisure meet, get motivated, can be productive, and never want to leave from. Luxury in hospitality is about space, design harmony, carbon footprint reduction, community impact, staff engagement, food sourcing, to name a few factors. This philosophy has laid the grounds for the curated Experiential direction of Kerten.

Who is the man behind the Experiences’ creation at Kerten Hospitality? Antony’s career launched with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, followed by multiple roles in France, Switzerland before joining Hyatt International where he opened the VIP & Celebrity Department at Park Hyatt Paris Vendome. After 12 years with Hyatt, he became an indispensable member of the Kerten Hospitality family where from a Brand and Marketing director, he has taken the reigns to support the growth of the Group’s portfolio by injecting the experiential factor in every destination. 

One Rep Global appointed an India representative for Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa

One Rep Global appointed an India representative for Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa

Gurgaon (India), July 2022: Adding to its growing portfolio of luxury international hotels, One Rep Global is now appointed an Indian representative for the newly launched Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa. Led by seasoned hotelier Hemant Mediratta, One Rep Global will lead the sales & marketing representation in India for this experiential resort that marks the debut of Hilton's flagship brand, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, in the Maldives.

Located on a lush tropical island in the North Malé Atoll, the all-pool villa resort highlights a mindful approach to gastronomy, holistic wellness, and exclusive amenities for travellers of all ages. Conveniently accessible via a 20-minute premium speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport, the stunning island property showcases 109 beach and overwater villas – each featuring its own private pool, six exceptional restaurants and bars, holistic spa and wellness facilities and best-in-class amenities for families, including one of the largest kids’ clubs in Maldives and a rooftop lounge exclusive to teenage guests.

Gaurav Thakur, General Manager, Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa said, ‘We look forward to welcoming guests with exceptional Hilton hospitality and a diverse collection of experiences, from multi-generational adventures to special retreats for two. India continues to be one of the top source markets for our destination, and we are confident that Indian travellers will find much to delight them as they create new holiday memories with us.’ 

‘Maldives is amongst the top outbound destinations for luxury travellers from India. The market holds a huge potential for Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, a stunning all-villa property with a range of experiences to please all travellers across age groups. At One Rep Global, we are excited to be exclusively representing the property in India.’, said Hemant Mediratta, Founder – One Rep Global.

Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa opened doors on 1 July 2022 and is now accepting reservations. Room rates start at USD 835 ++ per night.

Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok opens as the first Vignette Collection Hotel in Asia

Bangkok, July 2022- IHG Hotels & Resorts and Siam Sindhorn Co., Limited today crowned Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok as the first Vignette Collection hotel to open in Asia. Vignette Collection is IHG’s newest Luxury & Lifestyle collection brand, delivering stays that are authentic, experiential, and considerate. Located in the bustling city of Bangkok, the hotel’s location at Langsuan offers convenient access to prime districts such as Sukhumvit, Silom, Siam, and Chidlom.

Khun Umaporn Vongpipun, General Manager, said, “It has truly been an honor to lead the transition from an independent hotel to become the first property under IHG’s Vignette Collection to open in Asia. I am proud of my exceptional team as we bring Sindhorn Midtown into a new era and watch our hotel’s personality shine through with the introduction of our new guest experiences, offering a sense of connection with the heritage of Bangkok.”

Vignette Collection hotels are unique in their own right; each has its own distinct outlook and story to tell. Yet, the hotels are connected by a shared vision that travel can benefit local people and places. Daily complimentary rituals at each property create a sense of anticipation and connection and meet the growing demand for more thoughtful travel experiences.

Sindhorn Midtown offers a one-of-a-kind stay, creating a sanctuary in the heart of Bangkok by infusing elements of the city into the guest experience. A complimentary Lao Khao shot is served with a mixed selection of pickled fruits between 5pm and 6pm daily at The Black Cat, bringing guests closer to the soul of Bangkok and setting them up for an evening of exploration. Younger guests can dial the Emergency Popsicle Line located on the hotel’s second floor to receive a complimentary iced treat, delivered promptly by a dedicated Popsicle Butler. 

Designed by award-winning strategic design firm, Eight Inc., contemporary design, laidback elegance and the striking local art come together at Sindhorn Midtown. Punctuating the minimalist lobby space, an incredible textile masterpiece by Thai artist, Kachama Perez, epitomizes the hotel’s commitment to supporting Thai craftsmanship. Kachama acquired her advanced dying and weaving skills during time spent in the mountains of Northern Thailand with the Karen tribe. Shiny strands of recycled aluminum are woven between the indigo threads, depicting the negative human impacts on marine life and encouraging dialogue on ocean conservation.

Vignette Collection hotels prioritise creating and cherishing a sense of place. With this in mind, local design studio, P49 Deesign utilised the story of the Bangkok Tram to enhance the design of the hotel's lobby area. From the 1920's until 1968, the Silom line would pass Ratchadamri Road – just moments from Sindhorn Midtown – before terminating at Pratunam intersection. Dark metal symbolised tram tracks that previously ran by the hotel, and is applied to the front desk at the hotel lobby by P49 Deesign.

Each of its 393 rooms feature large format bathroom amenities from Karl Lagerfeld and modern comforts such as Fritz Hansen’s iconic Drop™ chairs. The Fitness Centre offers panoramic city views, as does the Horizon Pool, which is located on the 18th floor. Works by Fine Art Photographer, Visarute Angkatavanich, whose image of a Siamese fighting fish was launched on the iPhone 6s in 2015, can be found on every floor.

The hotel recently introduced three new eclectic dining offerings; The Black Cat is an atmospheric Thai Liquor bar, with live band playing on selected evenings. Inspired by the golden age of Thailand, Bangkok’78 presents the city’s greatest culinary hits in a retro-inspired concept, whilst Sip & Co. is a chic addition to Langsuan’s flourishing café culture.

Recognizing the importance of ensuring quality education to the leaders of tomorrow, Sindhorn Midtown is proud to partner with the Kuvanant Foundation, which aims to provide educational opportunities for local students and those living with disabilities in rural areas of Thailand. Upon checking in, guests are encouraged to donate USD$1 to the foundation. The hotel will be providing internship opportunities for the foundation’s students to earn first-hand work experience and offers career opportunities as well as insights into the hospitality industry.
 

With over 6,000 hotels now opened around the globe, IHG Hotels & Resorts had recently unveiled the 6,000 Club, an exclusive collection of stunning new hotels across 17 diverse brands, including Sindhorn Midtown. These hotels will surprise select guests in the coming months with 6,000 IHG One Rewards points, as well as other perks and experiences.

From 1 July to 30 November 2022, room rates start from THB4,060++ per room per night, and is inclusive of breakfast at Bangkok’78 and THB1,000 credits to be used in any of the hotel’s bars and restaurants.

For more information and reservations, please visit the hotel website.

Ingredient Ideology | LAUKI KI LAZZAT By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef.

LAUKI KI LAZZAT 

Nobel in Nutrients & Versatile in Variations

Bottle gourd or Dudhi, Lauki as it is popularly known as in various parts of India is one humble vegetable with a refreshing look and cooling properties to satisfy the needs of our dietary requirements. It is one vegetable which is able to be adapted in various forms from a fresh juice as a healthy beverage to snacky dishes, into subtle main course dishes to the exotics as well, blends well with spices, flours, pulses and legumes and sweeteners as well to offer us a varied choice of delicacies on our plates.

Some of the Culinary Uses of Lauki/ Bottle Gourd/ Dudhi:

• A lot of us have had it in a fresh extracted juice form as well which is very healthy for weight management.

• Dudhi ki subzi with a mild tempering of hing, jeera, curry leaves, turmeric, salt and a generous amount of coriander leaves and a little aamchur powder at the end is yum.

• Lauki ke kofte is a classic recipe from north India and has been done since a long time from the royal kitchen era.

• Dudhi chana dal is one of the commonly made daily veg and dal combo which goes well with a tadka of shahi jeera and mild spices to be enjoyed with phulkas/rice.

• Bottle gourd is also good at being stir fried with bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, peas and mushrooms as well.

• Lauki tamatar nu shaak a popular recipe with it being cooked in mildly spiced tomato based masala with a touch of jaggery and chili.

• Dudhi ke Parathey, chillas with grated Lauki and sooji, stuffing’s for tikkis and cutlet mixtures with Dudhi.

• A popular sweet with called Lauki ki kheer, Lauki ka mavedaar halwa etc are also some of the exotic and very tempting recipes from Indian cuisine.

• Fusion cooking too is delicious using Lauki and Dudhi some of the ideas I tried are basil flavored bottle gourd and nutty cream cheese ravioli pasta served with a sun dried tomato and roast pepper sauce.

• Indo-Chinese Lauki Manchurian gravy with vermicelli fried rice topped with double fried schezuan egg.

• Bottle gourd brownie pudding with blueberry salsa and praline cream.

        Here are some interesting Health Benefits of Lauki:

• It is beneficial in a number of ways starting from helping in weight loss, if being used the correct way with wise cooking methods.

• Lauki also is a heart healthy vegetable and helps us in treating hypertension as well among many complications.

• Lauki is good for the hair health, liver health and also treats urinary issues as well.

• It is considered to be rich in dietary fiber and also helps in curing constipation issues and even piles.

• Lauki is also beneficial for us since it is high in water content, keeps our body hydrated and also has good amounts of potassium.

• It is also known to have sedative properties, relaxes the body and also helps to get sound sleep.

• Lauki which can also be juiced is regarded good for reducing stress and also control blood pressure issues.

Here are a few easy and tasty recipes using 

Lauki:

Recipe-1] SHORBA –E- LAZZAT

Ingredients:

Dudhi- 500gms, peeled and roughly cut.

Oil/butter/ghee- 1 tbsp.

Jeera-1/2 tsp

Slit green chilies- 2 no

Ginger- 1 tsp chop

Onion- 2 tbsp. chop

Salt to taste

Veg stock/water- 4-5 cups

Curd + besan-1 tsp + 1 tbsp. cashew paste- ¼ cup curd.

Fresh cream- 2 tbsp.

Garam masala powder-1/4 tsp

Mint/coriander/parsley/nuts and seeds to garnish.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the shorba

2. Heat oil/ghee/butter in a pan add the ingredients for tempering one by one and saute well.

3. Add in the Lauki, salt, and spices to taste.

4. Add in the curd, besan and cashew paste mix, add water as desired, bring to a boil.

5. Cook well, simmer and continue for 10-12 mins

6. Blend the soup into a nice puree, bring it back to a boil add cream, check for seasonings and serve hot.

Recipe-2] LAUKI AUR DAL KI JUGALBANDI

Ingredients

Lauki- 500gms peeled and cubed.

Chana dal- ¼ cup

Yellow moong dal-2 tbsp.

Oil/ghee- 2 tbsp.

Shahi jeera/ jeera seeds- ½ tsp

Slit green chilies- 2 no

Ginger garlic-  1 tsp each chop

Onions- 1 small chop

Salt to taste

Tomatoes- ½ cup chop

Turmeric powder-1/2 tsp

Red chili powder- 1/3 tsp

Coriander powder- ½ tsp

Water as needed

Kasuri methi- 1 tsp

Coriander leaves- 2 tbsp. garnish.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the recipe.

2. Soak the dals in water for 30 mins.

3. Heat oil/ghee add in the jeera, chilies, ginger garlic and onions, tomatoes saute well for a minute.

4. Add in the drained dals, Lauki, salt, spices, methi and water.

5. Using a pressure cooker allow 3-4 whistles and lower the flame for 10 mins.

6. Open and blend it using a masher and garnish with coriander leaves, serve hot with rotis, rice, pulao.

Recipe- 3] ZAIKEDAAR TADKEWALI LAUKI

Ingredients:

Lauki- 500gms peeled and cut into cubes.

Oil/ghee- 2 tbsp.

Hing-1/4 tsp

Mustard seeds-1/4 tsp

Cumin seeds- ½ tsp

Curry leaves- 10-12

Slit red and green chilies- 2 no.

Onion- 1 small chopped

Salt to taste

Red chili powder-1/2 tsp

Coriander powder- 1 tsp

Garam masala powder- ½ tsp

Curd- 2 tbsp.

Cumin Powder- 1/3 tsp

Curry powder- 1 tsp- optional

Coconut- fresh grated- 2 tbsp.

Tamarind pulp-2 tsp

Jaggery-1 tsp

Water as needed.

Coriander leaves- 2 tbsp.

Fried red chili- 2 no for garnish.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the recipe.

2. Heat oil/ghee add in the tempering ingredients one by one add in the onions and saute them, add in the powdered spices, add ½ cup chop tomatoes- optional.

3. Add little water, coriander leaves, coconut, Lauki pieces and mix well, add in the tamarind and jaggery and curd and blend it well.

4. Cover and simmer for 12- 15 mins, open and serve hot with chapattis, missi roti, parathas.

Recipe-4] BOTTLE GOURD AND SESAME RAITA

Ingredients:

Dudhi- 400 gms, peeled and grated and steamed for 10 mins

Curd- 2 cups beaten and sweet.

Salt and pepper to taste

Mint leaves- 10-12 no

Roasted white sesame seeds- 1 and half tsp.

Sliced almonds, raisins etc if needed.

Chop dates- 2 tbsp.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the recipe.

2. Combine together the curd, seasonings and Dudhi, add chaat masala/rock salt, dates and other ingredients like mint, coriander etc and mix well with the Dudhi and dates into this raita.

3. Portion the raita when its chilled garnish with mint/coriander/nuts and seeds and some healthy sesame seeds and serve with a choice of rice preparations, pulao and biryanis.

Monsoon Meetha Special Recipes curated by Chef Raghvendra of Meetha by Radisson

Monsoon Meetha Special*

Meetha By Radisson which is a premium sweets store by Radisson Group has come up with Monsoon special dishes including

1. Chinese Samosa

2. Khasta Kachori

3. Mutter Kachori

4. Khasta Kachori Chaat

5. Corn Mutter Ki Chaat

-------------------

*Sweets*

1. Imarti

2. Balushahi

3. Laung Latika

RECIPES

*Chinese Samosa*

*Ingredients*

Noodles half Kg

Cabbage 250 Grams

Yellow Bell Pepper 100 Grams

Green capsicum 100 grams

Carrot 250 Grams

Beans 100 Grams

Spice masala

Maida 1 kg

200 Grams Ghee

Salt 25 Grams

Oil to Fry

Tomato Ketchup

Green chilly sauce

Red chilly sauce

Soya Sauce

*Recipe Steps*

1. To make filling Put oil in a pan add cabbage, Carrot, Beans, and yellow Bell pepper saute till 10 mins.

2. Add Boiled Noodles to the pan. Then add Tomato ketchup, green and red Chilli sauce, soya Sauce and salt as per taste and saute till 5mins and your filling for Chinese Samosa is ready.

3. Take 1 kg Maida add melted ghee 200 Grams and 250 Grams water and make a soft dough.

4. Make Samosa shape cones add filling and fry 12 to 15 minutes on medium flame. And your yummy Chinese Samosa is ready to serve.

*Corn Mutter Ki Chaat*

*Ingredients*

Boiled American Corn 250 Grams

Boiled Green Peas 200 Grams

Small Cubes of Paneer 100 Grams

Green Chutney

Sweet Chutney

Barik Sev

Chaat Masala

Coriander

Red Chilli Powder

Salt

*Recipe Steps*

1. Boil Corn and Mutter. Fry Panner cubes in a pan for 5mins without oil. Add mix all three ingredients.

2. Add Red Chilli powder, Chaat Masala, Green Chutney, Sweet Chutney, Salt.

3. Garnish with coriander. Your Corn Mutter Chaat is Ready to Serve.

*Laung Latika*

*Ingredients*

Maida half Kg

Ghee 100 grams

Water 150 ML

Mawa 300 grams

Sugar 1 kg

Chironji 50 Grams

Almond 50 Grams

Pista 50 Grams

Elaichi Powder

*Recipe Steps*

1. Melt 100 Grams of Ghee in a pan. Once it melts Add it to half kg Maida and add 150 ml Water. Make a dough.

2. Now to make the filling, take Mawa and add Ealichi powder, Pista, Almonds Chironji.

3. To make sugar syrup take 1 kg sugar add 300ml water and put it on medium flame till it boils.

4. Make the round shape of the dough and fill it with the dryfruit filling that we prepared.

5. Fry it in Desi Ghee on slow flame for 12mins to 15mins.

6. After it turns brown dip it in sugar syrup for 5 to 7mins. And your delicious Laung Latika is ready to Serve.

ACCOR INDIA’S MOST DECORATIVE CHEF-JERSON FERNANDES OF NOVOTEL MUMBAI JUHU BEACH WINS SPECIAL JURY RECOGNITION AT THE ACCOR SOUTH ASIA HOTEL AWARDS HELD AT PULLMAN AEROCITY.

ACCOR INDIA’S MOST DECORATIVE CHEF-JERSON FERNANDES OF NOVOTEL MUMBAI JUHU BEACH WINS SPECIAL JURY RECOGNITION AT THE ACCOR SOUTH ASIA HOTEL AWARDS HELD AT PULLMAN AEROCITY.

The delight of receiving an excellence award amidst the countless operational challenges that the hospitality industry navigated over the past two years is accompanied with a combination of celebration for both, the recipient – as indicative of the  standards of professionalism and positive hospitality, and for the brand; reinvigorating differentiation and leadership! He was also awarded with the best Executive chef of the year-2021 by Hotelier India in Dec 2021 and The Best Chef of the year-2022 by food Connoisseurs awards in March 2022.

Having being awarded and felicitated at the South Asia Accor Awards Ceremony at Pullman New Delhi Aerocity, Chef Jerson Fernandes is .known for creating culinary experiences that obscure  the boundaries between food and  art, curating menus which  reflect fresh tastes, mastery in diversity and delighting guests through every interaction.

 Accor   has been a culture of recognition, where each employee  is valued in their career journeys, and encouraged to be pro-active in professional self development. While our masterpiece performances  or endeavors may be its own reward; the acknowledgement of the  fruits of one’s  efforts and intentions from great leaders such as Mr. Puneet Dhawan- Sr. Vice President of Operations, India and South Asia and Mr. Gorav Arora- General Manager of Novotel Juhu helps reveal the secret of our  individual capabilities and competencies, passion for service and achievement  and the admirable flavors of ingredients: our harmonious team.

The exclusivity of delivering  personalized guest experiences has necessitated Chef Jerson’s  potential to inspire newer gastronomic  creations to suit a multiplicity of palates; whilst remaining true to the simplicity and authenticity of flavors, cuisines,  embracing the unexplored, revolutionizing perceptions  and multi-sensory encounters

In the words of Chef Jerson, “ This recognition and appreciation - “Special Jury Recognition”  in the Accor South Asia Hotel Awards 2021 reinforces my learning agility  and personal discovery and strengthens my emotional connect and investment with the Accor values.”

Expressing his happiness at the achievement, Gorav Arora, the General Manager of Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, said, "I am extremely proud of Chef Jerson's commitment to hospitality and his personalization of service; vibrancy in food and beverage offerings and being an inspiration to team members."

Hilton’s Flagship Brand Makes Highly Anticipated Debut in the Maldives

Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa arrives in the archipelago with a 109 all-pool villa resort, delivering an exceptional stay for a new era of travelers

MALÉ, Maldives July 2022 – Leading global hospitality company Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced the opening of Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, marking the expansion of Hilton’s award-winning flagship brand into the Maldives. The all-villa resort features an array of thoughtful amenities which are new to the archipelago, setting a new benchmark in hospitality that will captivate the next generation of travelers. Hilton Maldives Amingiri is the fourth resort under the company’s portfolio of brands in the country, complementing Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and Saii Lagoon Maldives, and Curio Collection by Hilton, bolstering Hilton’s ability to take care of different travelers and their unique needs in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. The hotel is owned by Amingiri Holdings Pvt Ltd and managed by Hilton.

“The Maldives is one of the most desired vacation destinations for travelers around the world – seeing a continued pace of bookings even throughout the last two years when it was the first country to open its borders to international travelers during the pandemic. The expansion of our flagship brand here underscores our commitment to bringing our world-class brands to key locations, and we are confident Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa will build on our legacy of delivering an exceptional stay to delight and inspire our guests,” said Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton.

“Today’s milestone launch is a celebration of our shared vision with Hilton to deliver the most exceptional levels of service and hospitality in the Maldives. At Amingiri Holdings, we are committed to continuously contribute to the Maldivian economy and further strengthen its tourism industry, and Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa will enable us to continue with this mission,” said Daniel Welk, Amingiri Holdings Pvt Ltd.

Nestled in Amingiri Island in the North Malé Atoll, Hilton Maldives Amingiri is directly accessible from Velana International Airport via a scenic 20-minute premium speedboat ride. The resort features 109 expansive beach and overwater villas, each offering a private pool and enticing views of the surrounding turquoise lagoon. Embodying a harmony of Maldivian accents and contemporary touches, the villas invite an abundance of natural light through its floor-to-ceiling windows, enhancing a refreshing colour palette that mirrors the warm hues of the sea and sky. Designed to immerse guests in nature’s wonders, the overwater pool villas are outfitted with stairs to lead directly to the island’s lagoon, and a hammock by the pool to enjoy the melody of waves; while beach villas feature direct access to sparkling white sand, a deck swing and a gazebo on the shore. All villas boast generously proportioned bathrooms with ocean-facing bathtubs, as well as indoor and outdoor rain showers that create a sense of relaxation.

A key highlight of Hilton Maldives Amingiri is the six-bedroom Amingiri Residence, the ideal escape for larger groups of travelers looking for privacy in its truest sense. Set apart on a landscaped cove, the residence will welcome guests with its own arrival pier and a dedicated sundeck with uninterrupted 360-degree views of the Maldivian horizon when it debuts in November 2022.

“Hilton Maldives Amingiri represents what we continually strive for in our brand portfolio – innovative offerings and exceptional stays complemented by our signature hospitality. Introducing several new concepts to the Maldives, such as a rooftop lounge exclusive to teenage guests, a cocktail lab and the six-bedroom residence, Hilton Maldives Amingiri is set to capture guests of all ages looking to reconnect during their stay with their selves, nature or close ones,” said Alexandra Jaritz, senior vice president, Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Hilton. 

Home to six distinctive dining concepts, Hilton Maldives Amingiri will take guests on a culinary sojourn. From Origin, a dining experience that celebrates sustainable seafood sourcing, ageing techniques and a food-upcycling approach, to all-day dining restaurant Habitat, to rustic beach restaurant Beach Shack with its feet-in-the-sand dining experience, the resort’s dining offerings are thoughtfully curated to satisfy every palate.

Celebrating tea cultures from all over the world, modern-day tea house Sip Tea Lounge’s extensive tea collection allows guests to refresh and relax over rare flavors and perennial favorites. Champagne and gin are on showcase at the adults-only overwater bar Eden, while poolside bar Aura features a cocktail lab dedicated to the art of mixology.

A slew of inspiring experiences await seasoned holidaymakers and junior explorers: Krakengiri Kids’ Club features an outdoor children’s play pool and mini splash park, while rooftop bar Re:Fuel offers teenage guests a tranquil retreat and a hidden entrance designed exclusively for them. Purposefully designed as a sanctuary, Amingiri Spa offers an extensive menu of rejuvenating treatments and purifying hammam rituals that bring an enlightened sense of wellbeing.

RELIANCE BRANDS LIMITED ANNOUNCES ITS FIRST FORAY INTO FOOD & BEVERAGE RETAIL WITH POPULAR GLOBAL FOOD CHAIN PRET A MANGER

RELIANCE BRANDS LIMITED ANNOUNCES ITS FIRST FORAY INTO FOOD & BEVERAGE RETAIL WITH POPULAR GLOBAL FOOD CHAIN PRET A MANGER

Mumbai, July 2022: RELIANCE BRANDS LIMITED (RBL) has announced a strategic partnership with global fresh food & organic coffee chain, Pret A Manger, to launch and build the brand in India. With this long-term master franchise partnership, RBL will open the food chain across the country starting with major cities and travel hubs.

Pret A Manger, French for ‘ready to eat, first opened in London in 1986. It was a shop with a mission to create handmade food, freshly prepared each day. Over 35 years later, the brand currently has 550 shops globally across 9 markets including the UK, US, Europe, and Asia, offering organic coffee, sandwiches, salads and wraps freshly made each day.

“Our partnership with Pret is rooted in the strong growth potential of both Pret as a brand as also of the food & beverage industry in India. RBL closely follows the pulse of Indian consumers and there is an increased consciousness of what we eat – rapidly making Food the new Fashion. Indians, like their global counterparts, are seeking Fresh and Organic ingredient-led dining experiences which have been synonymous with Pret’s core offering. Couple that with the high recall the brand enjoys in the country, it’s undoubtedly a recipe for success.” said Darshan Mehta, MD, Reliance Brands Limited.

As India’s largest luxury to premium retailer, RBL has over 14 years nurtured and grown global brands in the country. With its rich cache of insights on customers’ evolving spending habits and an ambitious expansion plan, RBL’s first foray into the food industry will bring the much-loved Pret dining experience, to one of the biggest retail markets.

Pano Christou, CEO, Pret A Manger said: “Two decades ago, we opened Pret’s first shop in Asia and it’s been an inspiration for all of us to bring our freshly made food and 100% organic coffee to new cities across the continent. RBL is a great partner to help us do just that, bringing their years of expertise in the market to help our brand succeed in India. We’re looking forward to working with them on what is our most ambitious global franchise partnership to date.”

ABOUT RELIANCE BRANDS LIMITED

RBL is a subsidiary of Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd and began operations in 2007 with a mandate to launch and build global brands in luxury to premium segments across fashion and lifestyle. In the past five years, RBL has also invested in building and operating homegrown Indian designer brands. Its current portfolio of brand partnerships comprises Armani Exchange, Bally, Bottega Veneta, Brooks Brothers, Burberry, Canali, Coach, Diesel, Dune, EA7, Emporio Armani, Ermenegildo Zegna, G-Star Raw, Gas, Giorgio Armani, Hamleys, Hugo Boss, Hunkemoller, Iconix, Jimmy Choo, Kate Spade New York, Manish Malhotra, Michael Kors, Mothercare, Muji, Paul & Shark, Paul Smith, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, Raghavendra Rathore, Replay, Salvatore Ferragamo, Satya Paul, Steve Madden, Superdry, Scotch & Soda, Tiffany & Co., Tory Burch, Tumi, Versace, Villeroy & Boch and West Elm. RBL today operates 1,937 doors split into 732 stores and 1,205 shop-in-shops in India

Appointment | Hotel Sahara Star appoints Ash Sharma as Hotel Manager

Hotel Sahara Star appoints Ash Sharma as Hotel Manager  

She would be responsible for overseeing all aspects of day-to-day activities and functioning of the hotel

Sahara Hospitality Ltd announces the promotion of Ash Sharma as the Hotel Manager of Hotel Sahara Star from her most recent position as the Rooms Divisions Manager. This is an essential change keeping in mind the continuous developments at the hotel.  

With over 24 years of experience within the Sahara Group, Ash Sharma is a skilled hospitality professional. She joined Hotel Sahara Star, as an Assistant Front Office Manager in 2007 and progressed to become the Front Office Manager in 2009. Over the course of her tenure at Hotel Sahara Star, she continued to grow and develop in her career. She went on to be a part of the management team in 2019 as the Rooms Division Manager.  

Commenting on her promotion Ash Sharma, said, “I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to become the Hotel Manager of this wonderful property. With this new responsibility, I am looking forward to the hotel’s innovative plans to further enhance our guest’s experiences by delivering exceptional luxury paired with courteous and intuitive service.” 

Manish Sodhi, CEO, Hotel Sahara Hospitality commented: “We are glad to announce this internal promotion as we seek to further strengthen the core team of Sahara star in lieu of the hospitality and tourism sector bouncing back post the difficult times. Going forward we will be fully focused on improving our brand standards with a key focus on increasing our room inventory and bringing together a host of many new amenities including our newly launched World Club membership, Jean-Claude Biguine Salon, and a state-of-the-art 7500 Sq. ft gymnasium.  

Ash would be responsible for overseeing all aspects of day-to-day activities and functioning of the hotel while striving to further enhance service quality and brand value in future, continuing to offer guests with memorable experiences.