Nestlé CEREGROW™ expands portfolio, launches CEREGROW™ Grain SelectionTM inspired by traditional ingredients
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In line with Nestlé India’s commitment to innovate by unlocking the power of food, Nestlé CEREGROW™ has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a new sub-brand, CEREGROW™ Grain Selection™. Inspired by traditional ingredients, the 1st product being launched in this range is a nutritious cereal for toddlers made from ragi, mixed fruits and ghee.
Commenting on the launch, Vineet Singh, Head, Nutrition Business, Nestlé India, said, “After the pandemic, parents are increasingly looking for ways to integrate traditional ingredients and recipes into their children’s diets, along with the confidence of assured nutrition. Nestlé CEREGROW™ Multigrain Cereals with Milk & Fruit, has been one of our most successful launches in the recent past with the promise of ‘Full Nutrition, Full Assurance (Poora Poshan, Poori Tasalli)’. We believe that the all-new CEREGROW™ Grain Selection™ Ragi mixed fruits & ghee, will help mothers incorporate traditional ingredients in their toddler’s diet in a nutritious and tasty form.”
Millets have been an integral component of the food basket in India, and CEREGROW™ Grain Selection™ is an ode to rediscover the value of these traditional millets. The new, CEREGROW™ Grain Selection™ ragi, mixed fruit & ghee, would be available across major retail and online stores in India.
To honour the nutrient-rich millets and increase public awareness, 2023 has been declared as the International Year of Millets. Grown for over 4000 years, millets like ragi (also known as nachni, mandua, keppai) require less water for cultivation and is good for sustainable agriculture.
Alma Resort Promotes Talented Homegrown Hospitality Professionals
/CAM RANH, Vietnam September 2022 – Alma Resort has appointed two directors of food and beverage who bring a total of almost three decades of rich industry experience to the executive team of the 30-hectare beachfront property.
Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler named Doan Pham Anh Tu as director of F&B (outlets operation) and Nguyen Huy Cuong as director of F&B (MICE and F&B sales) at the resort overlooking Long Beach on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula. Both Tu and Cuong had been assistant F&B directors at Alma before their promotions.
After graduating from Ho Chi Minh City’s University of Social Sciences and Humanities (Nha Trang branch) with a bachelor’s degree in English linguistics and literature, Tu started his 15-year career as a waiter at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in 2007. He became the restaurant manager of Nha Trang’s Green Apple restaurant and Red Apple bar before taking on a role in marketing and logistics at a Vietnamese metal container manufacturer.
Tu then climbed the ranks at Mia Resort Nha Trang, first as a restaurant captain, then a restaurant supervisor, assistant restaurant manager, restaurant manager and assistant F&B manager before joining Alma in 2019 as assistant F&B director.
Describing himself as “responsible, highly resourceful and reliable”, Tu said his strengths include people management, staff development, targets and budgets, menu planning, and function management.
Born and bred in nearby Nha Trang, Cuong studied English for business and tourism at Nha Trang Teachers’ Training College before starting his 12-year hospitality career as a waiter at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. He then became a guest relations officer at Six Senses Con Dao before returning to Six Senses Ninh Van Bay as an F&B supervisor.
He then became a restaurant manager at Vinpearl Land Nha Trang, assistant manager at InterContinental Nha Trang Costa Seafood restaurant, assistant outlet manager at Duyen Ha Resort Cam Ranh and outlet manager at The Anam before joining Alma as outlet manager in July 2019. Cuong was then promoted to assistant F&B manager and later assistant F&B director.
Cuong said he was “dedicated, hard-working and open-minded” and looking forward to learning more in his new role overseeing the resort’s MICE and F&B sales.
7 Classic Tiling Tips For Your Hotel Interior Design by Isha Tandon
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Hotels are synonymous with opulent tiles as they are one of the most visible and popular interior design products present everywhere. Be it in the lobby, in the bathroom, in the hallways, or on the walls, you just cannot do without the durable tiles. They can either make or break the way your hotel is perceived and considered whether it is a luxury, mid-range, or low-budget hotel. Today, with so much advancement a wide range of colors, patterns and materials are available that you can choose to help your hotel brand and integrity to rise. The interiors alone are in a position to give your commercial space a distinct character, neatness, asepsis, and comfort that guests will cherish for years, and in turn, build for a great business. Also ensure that when choosing floor tiles for a hotel, paying attention to safety and comfort is of prime importance and not only to aesthetics as aesthetics will not ensure prolonged durability which is way more important.
Criteria For Choosing The Right Tile
There could be different factors as to which types of floor tiles can be used for your hotel’s interior design. The biggest one has to be the ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and to sustain the dust and grime that come with the customers. For a detailed and simplified search for the right tiles for your hotel flooring, you can consult with tile experts who will give you an exact breakdown of what works and what doesn’t. Different types of floor tiles work for different areas, you just have to choose the ones that work for hotel lobbies, rooms and restaurant areas.
Want to take your hotel’s interior design to opulent heights, then check out the following useful tips:
Stone Tiles for Hotel Floors
Considering that most commercial properties go for luxury, hotels are great spaces to install natural stone tiles in. Apart from the aesthetic value that stone tiles add, they are also very durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic and will last you years before they give in. They are also available in various colors that will help you in decision making as to which suits the best and widens the scope of choosing the right kind.
Tiles for Hotel Lobbies and Corridors
The hotel lobby is the first space a guest will step in and have a look at. It is very important to make a good first impression for the hotel to be remembered. Be it a luxury hotel or a low-budget venue, it’s very important to opt for tiles that are not only good-looking but are also functional and practical. The tiles finally chosen should not only be eye-catching but they must compliment the primary function of the rooms and other spaces. They should fit well with other elements like artifacts and other décor items in the lobby and corridors.
Wood Look Tiles
If you are under a budget, going for traditional hardwood flooring doesn’t make sense. But what if we say that you can nail the same look but with a cheaper but equally good-looking alternative? That’s right, wood look tiles are the latest entrants in the market that give you the appearance of wood flooring but are extremely strong for public places like hotels. Plus, thanks to their easy maintenance, there’s not much effort required from your end to keep the place up and running.
3D Textured Tiles
Now that many things come in 3D to make it more realistic, the tile industry too has made its foray into the 3D space. 3D textured tiles give you the desired depth and realistic presence for the flooring as well as the walls or wherever they are installed. Advances in tile manufacturing have led to reinventions of trends and tile styles such as bohemian, baroque and mosaics. Mosaics are extremely versatile and increasingly popular as they are able to be installed in flat or even curved surfaces in dry and wet spaces. Coming in a variety of sizes, colours and shapes, mosaics become an easy choice to create a different style.
Luxury Vinyl Tile
To get authentic wood and stone flooring but with a much lower price point, luxury vinyl sits best within this category. They are waterproof, dust-resistant, non-porous and stain-resistant as well – all that a busy hotel requires! In fact, if you lay a carpet over them, they have soundproofing properties too that makes it even more desirable as you do not want one room’s acoustics to be heard in the other. Add to the fact that it is extremely easy to maintain and clean so that hassle is out of the picture too!
Large Format Tile
For smaller spaces, large format tiles are a great addition since they bring an illusion of a smaller space looking bigger. How? The grout lines are minimally visible, and the large size makes a bigger impact than other smaller size tiles whose grout lines are very readily visible. These large format tiles are ideal both for indoor and outdoor areas, thus a perfect choice for the space.
Black and White Marble Tiles
The classic combination of black and white remains unbeaten among many other colour combinations. They bring in a factor of timelessness and class while keeping the space understated and still worthy of discussion. White is a statement-making color while the addition of black gives it a hint of color. Marble tiles mimic the veining patterns of natural marble stone which make it look elegant and opulent – something that most hotels are looking for!
If you own a business-like hotel, you need to focus on bringing your guests back for the quality of what they get for the money they pay. That includes everything from the ambiance, service, flooring, bathroom hardware, and so on. These few tips will help you make a stylish hotel.
Author’s Bio:
Isha Tandon
The author works for Orientbell Limited, a leading tile manufacturer in India. Isha’s knack for understanding audiences helps her create value-driven content for her readers that not only educates and informs but is engaging and interesting to read as well. She creates lifestyle pieces that focus on interior design products, trends, and processes. She loves to travel to historic places with rich architecture.
Meliá Chiang Mai Launches A Journey to the Farm Package
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Meliá Chiang Mai is ushering guests onto a nearby 250-acre gourmet organic farm, to meet local farmers and learn more about sustainable farming and healthier eating, as part of its A Journey to the Farm Package.
CHIANG MAI, Thailand, 2022) – Meliá Chiang Mai is ushering guests onto a nearby 250-acre gourmet organic farm, to meet local farmers and learn more about sustainable farming and healthier eating, as part of its A Journey to the Farm Package.
Under the new hotel’s ‘360° Cuisine’ program its kitchen works closely with ORI9IN The Gourmet Farm in San Sai District, sourcing ‘farm to plate’ organic produce that travels only a short distance. As much of each ingredient is used – roots, leaves, stems, stalks and more – before ‘plate to farm’ food waste returns to the farm as fertilizer in a truly 360° concept.
Priced at THB 8,800 nett (USD 243 nett) per room for two, the A Journey to the Farm Package comprises two nights in a Meliá Room, daily breakfast for two, and a day trip for two to the scenic farm inclusive of a picnic lunch.
The farm experience includes feeding the animals, walking through the farm with a guide to learn about both the cultivation of Meliá Chiang Mai’s fruits, vegetables and herbs as well as Ori9in’s Pharm traditional herbal medicine garden, and a chance to rummage through a garden maze.
According to chef turned sustainable farmer James Noble, who oversees ORI9In, the day trip is a chance for guests to learn more about the journey their food and these products have made, as well as who has been a part of that journey.
“This is tourism that leaves no footprint on the land; we’re trying to show people that you can have a day out without harming what you came to see in the first place,” he said.
Under the partnership between Meliá Chiang Mai and the farm, local farmers grow an array of fruits, vegetables and herbs for the hotel’s restaurants, bar and spa. In addition to local seasonal produce such as young morning glory, red basil, lemongrass and passion fruit, the farm grows various kinds of tomatoes, salad leaves, and specialized ingredients such as padrón pepper that would otherwise need to be imported from Spain for the hotel’s authentic Mediterranean cuisine.
“The partnership is a central plank of our ‘360° Cuisine’ program, under which we aim to work closely with local farmers to help them improve sustainability and encourage ethical production to make communities and the overall food system more resilient,” said the hotel’s general manager Edward E. Snoeks.
Towering over Chiang Mai’s River Ping and Night Bazaar, Meliá Chiang Mai opened in April. With a design that pays tribute to Chiang Mai’s charming history and culture with a contemporary flair, the hotel comprises a striking 22-floor tower fronted by an adjoining seven-floor podium building.
Drawing on Meliá’s Spanish origins and celebrating Spain’s famed gastronomy, the hotel’s dining landscape features restaurants Mai Restaurant and Bar and Laan Na Kitchen, bars Mai The Sky Bar and Tien Pool Bar, and lounges Ruen Kaew and The Level Lounge; the latter a 21st-floor executive lounge with panoramic views of the city.
Culinary Team At Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Celebrates Two Promotions
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(Mumbai, India): The reputed culinary team of Four Seasons Mumbai celebrates Chef Shehrezad Kapadia and Chef Abhishek Gurav by announcing their well-deserved promotions. Infusing the brand ethos into everything that they do, both chefs showcase exemplary talent and dedication to their craft, to their guests and to the hotel.
Chef Shehrezad Kapadia has been promoted to Executive Sous Chef after having dedicated her career of more than 12 years to this property. This illustrious career has included successful short-term cross training and project-led deployments to international Four Seasons properties such as those in Chiang Mai, Milan and most recently Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. Chef Shehrezad has also worked alongside internationally renowned chefs such as Chef Vineet Bhatia, Manish Mehrotra, Himanshu Saini, Massimo Bottura and Mike Bagale while working on banquet events and pop-ups at Four Seasons Mumbai over the years.
A member of the pre-opening team of Four Seasons Mumbai, Chef Abhishek Gurav has been promoted to the role of Chef de Cuisine for the property. In his last 14 years of experience, Chef Abhishek has been instrumental in setting up kitchens of AER, the award-winning rooftop bar & lounge, along with the Thai kitchen that is one of the core offerings of San:Qi, the critically acclaimed Pan-Asian Speciality restaurant. Trained as a certified nutritionist, he takes great pride in catering to the needs of a discerning Four Seasons guest.
With this duo setting a solid foundation, Four Seasons Mumbai is sure to further cement its position as a market leader in the culinary world.
Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach appoints Rahul Bhale as the Executive Chef
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Visakhapatnam, September 2022: Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach appointed Rahul
Bhale as the Executive Chef. Bringing on the table his expertise and extensive knowledge of
global culinary trends, Rahul’s vision to lead Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach will help
create an unparalleled dining experience for the patrons. Chef Rahul is passionate about
curating an experience that nourishes the soul.
In his new role, Rahul will be responsible for overseeing the hotel’s overall culinary operations
which include hiring, training, supervising culinary staff, curating menus, layout for the
price, budgeting, performance assessment, and cost control with effective output. Chef Rahul
shows immense credibility and will be shouldering the responsibility to ensure all health & safety and service standards are being enforced.
On Rahul Bhale’s appointment, Ravi Rai, Cluster General Manager, Novotel Visakhapatnam
Varun Beach, Novotel Vijayawada Varun, and The Bheemili Resort expressed, “It’s a pleasure to have Rahul Bhale join our team as the Executive Chef. We believe with his extensive experience he will further elevate the dining experiences for our patrons along with his strong foundation and seasoned experience in culinary operations as well as avant-garde gastronomy which will be a good addition to our F & B department”
As a Chef with a passion for serving the gastronomic industry by presenting innovative dishes with a distinctive twist, Rahul brings a wealth of experience to this new role, having worked
in some of the best properties for an impressive 13-year tenure across India & UK such as
Hilton Hotels, UK, Ibis Nashik, Ibis Styles Goa Calangute Resort, Goa, Ibis Novotel Techpark,
Bangalore, Novotel Chennai Sipcot, Chennai and many more. Rahul has earned many
accolades for his merit, he was Flagged as one of the highest online revenue generations
within Accor pan India in the year 2021 and aims to further facilitate the hotel’s promise of
delivering unique and unparalleled hospitality for guests at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun
Beach.
Sofitel Mumbai BKC Launches New Negroni Cocktails for Negroni Week
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Sofitel Mumbai BKC, the elegant, luxury hotel in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, has just launched a new Negroni cocktail menu, to celebrate Negroni Week.
Available till September 18, 2022, at the hotel’s Le Bar Diamantaire, the special menu offers patrons five different types of Negroni cocktails. These include Campari Boulevardier; Campari Spagliato; Campari In & Tonic; Hazelnut Negroni; Campari Garibaldi; and Chocolate Orange Negroni.
Each Negroni cocktail on the special menu is priced at Rs. 899 plus taxes. Proceeds from the sales of the cocktails go to charity.
Visit Le Bar Diamantaire till September 18, 2022 to enjoy the special cocktails being served to celebrate Negroni Week.
Le Bar Diamantaire
Sofitel Mumbai BKC
C 57, G Block BKC
Bandra Kurla Complex
Bandra East
Mumbai – 400051
Hours of Operation: 12 pm – 12 am, Monday-Sunday
Telephone: +91 22 6117 5115
Kumar Raipancholia has been appointed as AVP Sales and Distribution for SaffronStays
/Kumar comes with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry and is tasked with driving occupancy growth and numbers for the 7-year-old start-up that currently has 250+ homes under the banner
As supply for SaffronStays, India’s foremost and exclusive collection of fully staffed and serviced private vacation homes grows, the brand has roped in Kumar Raipancholia to lead demand as AVP, Sales and Distribution. This comes shortly after opening doors in vital new markets like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Goa, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Kumar comes with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry and is tasked with driving occupancy growth and numbers for the 7-year-old start-up that currently has 250+ homes under the banner.
Born and raised in Mumbai, Kumar is an alumnus of Bandra’s MET Institute of Management. In 2012 he had his first brush with the MICE and FIT segments at Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotels and Residences He then spearheaded the same segments at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa before moving to Alila Diwa Goa – A Hyatt Brand as Associate Director, Sales. With over 10 years of experience in the MICE-Weddings, FIT and Travel Trade experience of Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi NCR markets, Kumar comes armed with immense knowledge in the conventional accommodation space.
Says Devendra Parulekar, Founder, SaffronStays, “Besides setting ourselves on a path of profitability, a critical objective for 2022 that we’d set for ourselves was to professionalise the company. From a start-up that was a rank outsider to the industry, to causing the industry veterans to be a part of the category, SaffronStays has come a long way. It was time to induct professional talent from the hotel industry to take us to the next level. This is why we sought out Kumar Raipancholia as Chief of Sales and Distribution to help us navigate the complex world of hospitality sales. He will build and cultivate distribution channels including travel agents and OTAs, and leading website sales that has been the largest contributor to our sales.”
Says Kumar Raipancholia, “Ever since Airbnb opened its doors, it has opened travellers’ minds to the possibility of staying in a home, instead of a hotel. After the pandemic-induced lockdowns, we have seen a shift in the minds of the guests who are now turning to Homes Stays as an option while looking for their holiday. Private villas are aspirational getaway options; to holiday in and to own. Guests who stay in these estates always go back with a feeling of owning a private villa, and then wanting to partner with SaffronStays to monetise the asset after they’ve spent a few years enjoying it.”
SaffronStays has been recognised as one of India’s Top 100 Luxury Brands in Luxebook’s Most Powerful 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 and featured in MoneyControl’s 75 Brands That Changed The Way We Live list. It was the only Curated Network of Private Vacation Homes to be featured on any list. Moreover, 1 in every 12 villas from Conde Nast Traveler’s 50 Top Villas In India, is an exclusively managed estate by SaffronStays.
“I am here to build SaffronStays as a brand eponymous with quality standards, experiences and brand values in the premium and budget vacation rental space. This space is growing incredibly quickly and in another 5-7 years will be the default choice for Indians and inbound international guests as well. Today’s consumer wants luxury seeped in privacy, experiences and hassle-free service; and villas offer just that,”
Where a luxury hotel room costs ~₹25,000 for 2 pax, SaffronStays offers a base-category villa for 6 pax along with a personal home chef, a pool and complete service. “I am here to take this brand to every corner of India and spread its wings across international waters. SaffronStays should be the first brand that a guest equates to a holiday getaway.”
When he is not working, Kumar, a self-proclaimed auto enthusiast, is researching the latest supercars in the market or planning a trip from his bucket list, with Japan currently topping that.
The Westin Hyderabad mindspace put fourth a range of sustainability initiatives
/Onsite bottling plant, Green powers, EV charging stations etc, a some of the initiatives taken by the hotel
At Westin Hyderabad, sustainability and the environment are deeply ingrained into our operational procedures. Guided by Marriott International’s 2025 sustainability and social impact goals and Chalet Hotels Limited‘s RE100, EP100 and EV100 initiatives linked to renewable electricity, energy efficiency and electric mobility respectively, they are pleased to announce the launch of our Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station at the hotel on the occasion of World EV Day.
Some of their sustainability initiatives to minimize our environmental footprint as a part of our amenities are:
Onsite Bottling Plant – Eradication of Single-Use plastic water bottles.
Our vision to eradicate single-use plastic is in line with our mission to reduce the global carbon footprint and our commitment to be environmentally friendly through sustainability initiatives. The bottling plant at the hotel generates 240 litres of water in an hour which will be available in glass bottles for the guests in guestrooms as well as restaurants.
“Sustainability is the most powerful resource in business today”
Amitabh Rai, Cluster General Manager, The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace and Hyderabad Market.
Green Power– The first hotel in Hyderabad to get 100% green power.
“Sustainability is the most powerful resource in business today. Investing and implementing initiatives that use renewable energy and are eco-friendly, and reduce dependence on non-green sources enable benefits that are far-reaching even in terms of return of investment. The impact that these initiatives have on minimizing the carbon footprint and climatic change is very important to account for as a collective global responsibility.” says, Amitabh Rai, Cluster General Manager, The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace and Hyderabad Market
Sumit Kumar Sharma has been appointed as the General Manager at Renest Haridwar
/He will be responsible for day-to-day operations and management of the hotel, while leading the teams to drive revenues and enhance the brand value
A Hotel Management graduate from IHM Bangalore, Sumit Kumar Sharma has been in the industry for over 2 decades. He brings with him an astute sense of business and markets. His hospitality journey began with Ananda in the Himalayas. He then moved to Novotel Convention Centre Hyderabad and has also worked with The Grand, New Delhi.
He was then appointed as a Resort Manager in Suryavilas. Sharma has a proven record of success in the preopening assignment at Sarovar Portico in Dehradun.
In his role as a General manager at Renest Haridwar, he will be responsible for day-to-day operations and management of the hotel, while leading the teams to drive revenues and enhance the brand value. In his personal time, he loves to travel, and binge eat.
The Ultimate Maldivian Adventure for Luxury Travel Partners,Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts gives a taste of the “Joy of Giving”
/Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts gives a taste of the “Joy of Giving”
Mumbai,September 2022: With the growing prominence of the Maldives in the Indian outbound market, leading hospitality group Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, organized a familiarization tour for 25 Indian travel agent partners to six of their Maldives properties. Atmosphere which is well known for their brands - THE OZEN COLLECTION, COLOURS OF OBLU and By Atmosphere. The objective of the visit was to familiarize the agents, about the brand architecture, as well as experience the unique Atmosphere hospitality, weaved with the values of the Joy of Giving.
The two group familiarization tours began simultaneously. The 1st Group kicked off their trip from OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi and OBLU SELECT Lobigili followed by OBLU NATURE Helengeli. The following day the partners started with OBLU Select Sangeli before moving on to the next property, VARU By Atmosphere. On the other hand, the second group started from VARU By Atmosphere and then to OBLU SELECT Sangeli followed by OBLU NATURE Helengeli and concluded at OBLU NATURE Helengeli.
On the occasion of this familiarization tour, Vignesh Mohan, Director of Sales for Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts said “It was an opportunity for our partners to experience the “Joy of Giving”, which they have been extending to our mutual customers and guests in India. It was important to us that all segments of the trade community experience this and thus we invited our wholesale partners along with the travel agents. We especially focused on some of our gastronomic offerings including Indian and international cuisine, along with outdoor activities and wellness initiatives.”
Maldives offers the Indian traveler, a dream destination in close proximity and still undiscovered. Its natural place in the Indian ocean creates for an appealing union of azuring views of the blue, a taste of the Maldivian culture, adventure sports and wellness. The itinerary was specifically curated in a manner that brought key elements of the experience to the fore, including exquisite gastronomy at the specialty restaurants in each of the resorts and the under ocean restaurant Only BLU at OBLU SELECT Lobigili and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi. An escape to the view of alluring Indian Ocean with exemplary services and exclusive dinners at all the properties left the tour group of 20 luxury travel partners from India captivated.
JW MARRIOTT MUMBAI JUHU ANNOUNCES THE ELEVATION OF ROHIT CHADHA AS THE EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF
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Chef Rohit Chadha is looking forward to curating innovative concepts that are inspired by the local community and exceeding expectations of the JW Marriott Juhu guests.
Mumbai, September 2022 - JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, the 5-star luxury hotel in Mumbai is pleased to announce the appointment of Chef Rohit Chadha as the new Executive Sous Chef of the iconic property.
With a rich culinary experience spanning over a decade, Chef Rohit Chadha has previously spearheaded the team at Dashanzi, the award-winning progressive modern Asian cuisine restaurant at the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, and worked across leading brands in India and the Middle East, in addition to working alongside three-time Michelin Star Chef Allen Passard and industry stalwart Chef Hemant Oberoi. His unparalleled passion for his work, drive for innovation, and extensive knowledge of local and international cuisines have been instrumental in his success. Among his many achievements, Chef Rohit was one of the top 10 leading chefs in India selected for the “Himalayan Raw and Fine Journey” contest hosted by a leading travel magazine in 2019 for a culinary tour of Japan.
Chef Rohit shares his experience saying, “From my first day at the hotel, I was given the opportunity to live the experience of serving and enjoying my job. I am empowered to create concepts that are inspired by our communities. The creativity, passion and entrepreneurial spirit of my team makes me who I am today. From working with local horticulturists to prioritizing responsible sourcing, the team and I are committed to delivering gourmet experiences for our guests. Marriott is my home and my school to continue learning by living the company’s core values.”
In his new role, Chef Rohit Chadha will work closely with the culinary team at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu to curate compelling, innovative and locally relevant dining experiences that are gratifying and fulfilling across the hotel’s distinctive restaurants, in keeping with the JW Marriott brand promise.
Marriott International Signs Agreement for Inaugural Property in Papua New Guinea
/Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby is Expected to Open in Mid-2023
Marriott International, Inc. today announced it has signed an agreement with Steamships Trading Company Ltd., to debut its first property in Papua New Guinea, the Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby. Slated to open in mid-2023, the property is set to be located in the heart of Port Moresby within the mixed-use development of Harbourside South.
Mr. Geoff Cundle, Chairman of Steamships, said, “I’m delighted that Steamships will work with Marriott International at Harbourside South. Located in the CBD district of downtown Port Moresby, and overlooking the Coral Sea and Fairfax Harbour, this is set to be a flagship development for Steamships, and this property is an excellent fit within the overall Harbourside precinct. The Harbourside precinct connects Harbourside South’s retail, commercial, leisure, and residential facilities with the existing commercial floors and F&B outlets of Harbourside East and West. Residents and guests of Marriott Executive Apartments Port Morseby will be able to live, shop, relax, work, and dine within the luxury and safety of the precinct – the first of its kind in Papua New Guinea.”
Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby is anticipated to feature 88 modern residential apartments – offering space, ambiance, and privacy of residential living, enabling a comfortable stay away from home. The new property is slated to feature spacious one and two bedroom apartments with separate living, sleeping, and working areas. Guests will also be able to enjoy additional amenities, including laundry services, kitchens equipped with a refrigerator, dishwasher, cooktop, microwave, and oven, and spacious dining areas.
“We are excited to work with Steamships Trading Company Ltd. to debut Marriott International’s first property in Papau New Guinea,” highlighted Sean Hunt, Area Vice President, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, Marriott International. “Following our signing of Marriott Executive Apartments in Melbourne earlier this year, this is an exciting signing and testament to the confidence our owners have in this brand.”
Upon opening, Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby is expected to feature a lounge for residents and guests that offers a relaxed environment for light meals, self-service options and evening cocktails. Additional plans call for a spacious leisure floor which includes a lap pool, leisure pool, a well-equipped fitness center, three spa treatment rooms, and a recreational zone for children.
Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby will serve as an integral part of the new Harbourside South development, which also features a retail floor and three floors of A-grade commercial space. It will connect to the Harbourside East and West buildings on Port Moresby’s waterfront, which opened in 2015. The development offers quality commercial tenancies, the city’s finest restaurants and bars, a boardwalk, and marina.
Steamships Trading Company Ltd is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and Papua New Guinea’s National Stock Exchange (PNGX) and is part of the wider Swire Group, which includes the Hong Kong- listed Swire Pacific Ltd, owners of Swire Hotels, Cathay Pacific Airways and numerous other subsidiaries.
Ingredient Ideology | THE TENDLI TRAIL, By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef.
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Tendli also called Ivy gourd, tindora is one of the most commonly available vegetable found in our local markets. while most of us do include it in our diets and recipes occasionally it is a very nutritious ingredient to include in various ways with a touch of innovation and little creative ideas Tendli or tindora regulates blood sugar levels in our system, improves digestion, prevents constipation and also is a heart healthy vegetable.
Tendli is rich in Vitamin C and is also regarded good for the eyes, and also assists in detoxifying our system as well. It is also known to increase metabolism levels in our body and is a good ingredient to consume for weight watching since it is low in calories.it is also rich in fiber, Vitamin B & iron content.
While most recipes with Tendli start with basic tempering with Indian spices and with a touch of hing, jeera and chilies, some also combine ingredients like coconut and curd too when working with Tendli based preparations. I enjoy Tendli aloo sukha subzi with a mild touch of home spices to accompany a nice dal fry and hot phulkas, besides having included in recipes with pasta, baked dishes, stuffing’s for parathas and continental dishes, Tendli is one ingredient which also goes well with Mexican, Spanish, Chinese and Thai recipes as well.
Here are some easy to make and healthy recipes with Tendli:
Recipe-1] Tendli Tamatar Ka Milan
Ingredients:
Tendli- 200 gm- cut into round slices
Oil-1 tsp
Ghee-1 tsp
Hing- ¼ tsp
Curry leaves- 8-10
Slit green chilies- 3-4
Tomatoes- 2 medium size, puree or grated.
Salt to taste
Turmeric powder-1/2tsp
Red chili powder-1/2tsp
Dhaniya powder-1 tsp
Kasoori methi- 1tsp
Water- ¼ cup
Roasted crushed peanuts- 2 tbsp.
Chopped coriander- 2 tbsp.
Lime juice- 1tbsp.
To serve with –chapattis, phulkas, ideal for tiffin.
Method:
1. Prepare all the ingredients and keep aside.
2. Heat oil add in the ingredients for the tadka and cook for 10 seconds, add in the sliced Tendli and tomatoes.
3.Now add in salt and all powdered masala, methi and bhunofy for 2 mins, add in the roasted crushed peanuts.
4. Add little water cover and cook in steam for 10-15 mins, add lime juice and coriander leaves mix, serve hot with rotis, raita and salad.
Recipe-2] Tendli Ka Khush Mijaaz Pulao
Ingredients
Tendli- 200 gms- sliced vertically.
Basmati rice- 1 and half cup
Oil- 1 tsp
Ghee-1 tbsp.
Shahi jeera/ jeera- 1 tsp
Ginger- 1 tsp sliced
Green chilies- 2-3 slit
Onion- 1 small sliced
Tomato- 1 med size chop
Salt to taste
Turmeric powder- 1/2tsp
Red chili powder-1/2 tsp
Methi leaves- ½ cup fresh
Coriander leaves- 1/2cup fresh.
Garam masala powder-1/2 tsp
Water as needed to cook the pulao
To garnish-fried brown onions/fried nuts.
Method:
1. Prepare all the ingredients for the pulao.
2. Soak the rice, heat oil and ghee in a pan add the ingredients one by one and saute for 15 seconds.
3. Add in the Tendli and fry them for 1 min, add in the drained rice, salt and all the masala and methi-coriander.
4. If desired add some more veggies like carrots, peas, capsicums, soy chunks etc.
5. Add in double the amount of water cover and cook in dum, or use a cooker and allow 2 whistles.
6. Serve the pulao hot garnish with fried onions/nuts with a bowl of chilled boondi aloo raita, papad and pickle.
Recipe-3] TENDLI AUR VATANE KI SUBZI
Ingredients:
Tendli- 150 gms sliced
Boiled white vatana- 1 cup
Oil- 1 tbsp.
Ghee- 1 tsp
Curry leaves- 10-12
Red chili- 2 no slit
Hing- 1 pinch
Ginger- chili paste- 1 tsp
White sesame seeds/til- 1 tsp
Mustard seeds-1 tsp
Chopped onion- ½ cup
Chopped tomato-1/2 cup
Fresh coconut- ½ cup
Curd- ½ cup beaten
Salt to taste
Turmeric powder- 1/2tsp
Aamchur powder- ½ tsp
Dhaniya jeera powder-1 tsp mix
Garam masala powder-1/2 tsp
Fresh coriander- 2 tbsp. chopped
Method:
1. Prepare all the ingredients for the recipe.
2. Heat oil and ghee in a pan add in the ingredients for the tadka one by one and add in the onions and saute until light brown, add tomatoes, salt and masalas, add in the coconut and beaten curd, boiled vatana and sliced Tendli.
3. Mix all well and allow to cover and cook for 15-20 mins in steam, stir occasionally and add little water if needed.
4. Serve hot garnished with fresh coriander leaves, roasted peanuts, enjoy this recipe with hot rotis/parathas, kulchas along with a bowl of salad and papad.
WELCOMHOTEL BENGALURU ACCREDITED LEED ZERO CARBON CERTIFICATION BY USGBC
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WelcomHotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru has been accredited with yet another distinction by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) – the LEED ZERO CARBON certification. The first Welcomhotel to achieve this milestone, it is the 4th in the ITC Hotels chain after ITC Windsor in Bengaluru, ITC Grand Chola in Chennai and ITC Gardenia in Bengaluru to be accorded this certification by USGBC.
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru was opened in 2014 and was awarded LEED Platinum rating by IGBC Under New Construction (NC) Version in the same year. The property since its launch has continued to enhance its sustainability standards - the bedrock of ITC Hotels. In 2022, the hotel was recertified with the LEED Platinum Certification under the Existing Buildings category by USGBC.
This LEED Zero achievement by Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru further demonstrates ITC Hotels’ deep commitment towards environment and our sustainability goals. Carefully using natural resources and synergise building/design strategies have been key drivers for ITC Hotels to keep on setting new benchmarks at a global level.
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru stands for best in class service – we are stylish hotels with young, vibrant and tech-enabled features, offering an ideal venue for the savvy and young business travellers, where cool and breezy ambience is blended seamlessly with spirited and efficient service. The hotel with its various sustainable measures like 99% Power requirement met by windmills, Zero Mile water, Chemical Free Water Treatment in Cooling Towers, Heat Pumps for Hot Water Generation, STP for reclaiming used water etc., has emerged as a model of environmental stewardship.
Amandeep Kaur, General Manager, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru added, “Sustainability is a driving force for ITC Hotel’s in line with our philosophy of Responsible Luxury that integrates world-class green practices with contemporary design elements to deliver the best of luxury in the greenest possible manner. Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels takes immense pride as one of the smallest hotel to date globally to achieve a LEED Zero certification. Having said that, we continue our concerted efforts towards sustainable solutions, addressing the grave challenges facing the world today without compromising our core strength of providing world class hospitality and luxury experiences. In most responsible ways, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru would continue its journey towards reducing carbon footprints further focusing on enhanced use of renewable energy sources as well as reduction in specific energy consumption.”
“LEED Zero marks a new beginning for the hotel which comes with lot of pride and responsibility. We are excited and look forward to consistently improve our energy performance. ITC Hotels has pioneered several ground-breaking initiatives on environment, hotel ecosystem, health, and well-being. From LEED platinum ratings, to being one of the first chain to eliminate single use plastic free products, deployment of radiation harmonisers across the chain, farm to fork low carbon footprint cuisine, clean
air and more, we are consistently aiming towards providing our guests with Planet Positive Experiences”, adds Sumeet Pal Singh, Chief Engineer at Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru.
“At USGBC we believe net zero is a powerful target that will move the entire industry forward. It influences the rest of the market to aim even higher and achieving LEED Zero certification demonstrates these goals are attainable,” said Peter Templeton, president and CEO, USGBC. "Given the climate-related risks we are facing, and the central role buildings play in climate mitigation, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru’s LEED Zero certification for [energy, water, waste or carbon] demonstrates visionary leadership because it contributes toward a regenerative future and represents a commitment to making the world a better place.”
For more than two decades, LEED has provided a framework for creating high performance green buildings and spaces and is an internationally recognized symbol of excellence. Building on that work, the U.S. Green Building Council has developed LEED Zero, a complement to LEED that verifies the achievement of net zero goals. LEED Zero represents a new level of achievement in green building that is not just attainable but is the goal of LEED certified projects around the world.
(*LEED - Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
About ITC Hotels:
ITC Hotels is the largest chain of hotels in the World, which has maximum number of LEED Platinum Certified Properties (As on June 2020, as per USGBC). Continuing with its Planet Positive Promise, ITC Hotels launched Sunya Aqua or zero-kilometre water in glass bottles across the chain over a decade back and have taken this lead further and pioneered the mitigation of single use plastic from its operations pan India. While ITC Windsor, Bengaluru is the first hotel in the world to achieve LEED Zero Carbon Certification, ITC Grand Chola, Chennai is the largest hotel in the world to achieve the LEED Zero Carbon Certification. ITC Gardenia, Bengaluru is the third hotel in world to receive the LEED Zero Carbon Certification. Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bengaluru is now the 4th in the ITC Hotels chain and the first amongst Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels to achieve this milestone.
About the U.S. Green Building Council
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to a healthy, resilient and equitable future for all through the development of green buildings, cities and communities. For more than 20 years, USGBC has been advancing green building practices through the development of LEED, the world’s most widely used green building program. With the support of thousands of members, volunteers and partners, USGBC provides robust green building education courses, a rigorous professional credentialing program, and advocates for effective public policies. It convenes an international network of green building and sustainability leaders through the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, and forward thinking programs, including the Center for Green Schools. For more information, visit usgbc.org and connect on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Harsh Mahajan appointed as the Commercial Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Agra
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Agra, September 2022: DoubleTree by Hilton Agra has appointed Harsh Mahajan as their new Commercial Manager.
Harsh brings along a wealth of expertise in the Sales and Marketing domain. In his new stint, he will be responsible to drive commercial objectives and enhance the brand positioning. He is recognized for his capability to communicate with customers and provide exceptional service that ensures client retention and unbiased positive feedback.
With over a decade of experience in different markets around the Golden Triangle, Harsh has worked with prominent brands like Hilton Hotels, The Oberoi Group, Marriott International, and IHG Hotels & Resorts to name a few.
In all his assignments Harsh has demonstrated the ability to ensure increased sales through up-selling techniques as well as implementing processes that drive profitability. Harsh excels in handling corporate to leisure, and weddings to MICE and is actively involved in strategic revenue planning across verticals. In his new role, Harsh will focus on developing new market segments and strategies as the hotel walks into the new financial year.
Harsh is an inquisitive explorer and enjoys traveling in mountains & adventure. He follows fitness as passion.
The Westin Pune Koregaon Park appoints Aman Dhoundiyal as Executive Assistant Manager-Rooms
/Pune, September 2022: The Westin Pune Koregaon Park welcomes, Aman Dhoundiyal as their new Executive Assistant Manager - Rooms. Aman in his role will have primary responsibilities including providing administrative and operational support to hotel managers. His duties will involve assisting guests, optimizing solutions for administration and guest queries, efficient telecommunication between guests and associates, and staff supervision.
With 17 years of expertise in the front office department, Aman started his hospitality journey in 2005 with The Oberoi Group. Aman, later on, went to work with hospitality brands such as The Lalit, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., IHG Hotels & Resorts. His last assignment was as Director of Room- W Goa.
Aman is a graduate from IHM Trivandrum, Kerala, with a Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality Mgmt. Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition. In his role, Aman will be seen ensuring that corporate, divisional, and departmental policies and procedures are adhered to at all levels. He will liaise closely with other departments with emphasis on excellent inter-departmental relations considering other departmental procedures and policies and will delegate authority and responsibilities to direct subordinates for seamless and efficient on-ground operations. In his leisure time he likes to keep himself fit through regular workouts and loves to travel.
Commenting on his appointment, Aman Dhoundiyal, Executive Assistant Manager - Rooms, The Westin Pune Koregaon Park, said, “I am honored to be a part of The Westin Pune Koregaon Park. The hotel has established a reputation for itself as one of the best luxury hotels with impeccable service and I’m delighted to be part of it. I look forward to providing my services to enhance the guest experience while working alongside our dedicated associates to ensure esteemed excellence and fruitful results.”
About The Westin Pune Koregaon Park:
Situated amid celebrated attractions, The Westin Pune Koregaon Park is a luxurious haven of wellness and renewal. Experience effortless relaxation in tastefully designed hotel rooms and suites with signature comforts, sleek marble bathrooms and inspiring views. Thrill your senses at the on-site dining options, including a chic bar and nightclub. Enjoy a coveted location in Koregaon Park near Pune Airport, Magarpatta, Hadapsar and many industrial parks. Work well in 45,000 square feet of sophisticated, flexible hotel event space, enhanced by modern AV equipment, on-site event planning and custom catering services. Refresh in the sparkling waters of our outdoor pool, and exhilarate your body in our well-equipped fitness center with cardio equipment and free weights. After a full day of work, shopping or sightseeing, invigorate your mind and body with massage, beauty and wellness therapies at our Heavenly Spa by Westin™. Replenish your well-being at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park.
WORLD ARCHITECTURE TRAVEL PRESENTS THE WATCONNECT SERIES TO THE DURGA PUJA FESTIVAL OF KOLKATA
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WATconnect, an initiative from World Architecture Travel (WAT) presents an architecturally immersive travel experience to a unique location across the country. This September WATConnect in collaboration with massArt plans to communicate the art/ architecture/ local economy aspects of the Durga Puja and invite people to attend a preview show that will showcase the twenty most innovative and best of Durga Puja art installations from the 22nd to 24th September.
“Durga Puja of Kolkata has recently been enlisted as the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage from India. Apart from being a religious festival, Durga Puja is also a unique temporary architecture and installation form. It can perhaps be considered the largest kind of installation art. The city is transformed into a breathtaking public art gallery with attractive idols of the Goddess Durga, through lavish themes and artworks during the festive season.” says Brijesh Shaijal, Founder, World Architecture Travel.
World Architecture Travel is dedicated to exploring architecture and culture, celebrating excellence worldwide through guided architectural journeys curated by distinguished architects and professionals. Designed as an exclusive platform for selected architects to connect with each other on a national as well as an international scale, WATconnect aims to enhance professionalism and develop inbound architecture tourism through these connections.
About World Architecture Travel (WAT):
World Architecture Travel (WAT) a unique travel portal that explores architecture & culture is supported by The World Architecture Festival (WAF) the annual festival and awards ceremony for the architecture industry dedicated to celebrating and sharing architectural excellence from across the globe. WAT supported by WAF has inked a strategic brand alliance to offer a host of benefits to architectural travelers. WAT reaches out to individuals with a passion for architecture, urban design, and culture travels to places of modern architecture, and unexplored areas. Experiences through city walks, culture trails, and academic discussions are organized with a team of experienced architects, historians, and academicians. Our passionate teams of planners bind in local architecture, building culture, current architecture developments, and urban design as part of your travel experience.
Alumni Meet @ BCIHMCT - Reminiscing Past Memories
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BCIHMCT celebrated its Alumni Meet with all pomp and glory. The fun filled nostalgic event was filled with cultural dances, nukkad natak and felicitations of achievers along with reminiscence of the years gone by. The purpose of any Alumni Meet is to reconnect with the Alumni and celebrate their success and many of their achievements. It is the time for happiness and nostalgia and also an opportunity to reflect on their learning and achievements.
After the traditional Lamp Lighting & Ganesh Vandana, the Alumni Meet commenced with a welcome address by Mr Manish Malhotra, Assistant Professor, BCIHMCT. He spoke about this auspicious occasion as an opportunity for all to reconnect after so many years with each other. Alumni can now notice the various changes through which the college has gone through over the past few years.
In the field of hospitality and beyond, the BCIHMCT Alumni students are leading the way in the true spirit of becoming job creators as many of them have turned into successful entrepreneurs of our times. The event's panel discussion was sponsored by ODCJOBS, a leading hospitality firm providing manpower support for the hospitality sector. This venture is an initiative of Alumni of 2008 2012 batch, Surender & Devender.
The event also saw "TOP TEN GEMS" from the ALUMNI, being felicitated for their extraordinary achievements including - Mr. Prashant Sharma, Director Of Rooms, Shangri-la hotels, New Delhi, Chef Utkarsh Bhalla, Brand Chef, Azure Hospitality, Mr. Saurabh Khurana, Hotel Manager, The Lodhi, New Delhi , Mr. Siddharth Malhotra, Head of Operations, Massive Restaurant, Mr. Deepak Behl, Director Of Sales and Marketing at IHG Hotels & Resorts among others.
Alumni also interacted with the current batch of students and gave motivational talks regarding preparation for the hospitality sector. Students asked many pertinent questions regarding the future of hospitality and the alumni shared their views on it.
Mr. R.K. Bhandari, Principal, BCIHMCT, then, shared his wisdom and knowledge, and spoke about many success stories of the alumni students. He appreciated the efforts of Alumni Association of BCIHMCT, who have done a lot of hard work to make this event possible.
Mr. Varun Balwani, Commercial Director, FCS Computer Systems, and the president of Alumni Association of BCIHMCT then concluded with a vote of thanks for all stakeholders including the sponsors of the event. He also thanked the management of BCIHMCT for the support and guidance which has made Alumni Meet 2022 a grand success.
