Taki Taki, Mumbai Turns 1 Celebrate with an all-new tasting menu

National, January 2023 - Situated at Lodha World Crest, Taki Taki known for its authentic Japanese and Pan-Asian cuisine has been on the radar of must-visit places in Mumbai, for its delectable food made from the finest, premium quality ingredients, a well-stocked bar and stylish sleek design elements inspired from the Far East. With all the success and popularity, Taki Taki by V&RO Hospitality is all set to celebrate a week-long - “1st Anniversary” from 13th to 20th January 2023. 

As a part of the celebration, the brand has launched a new lunch menu experience called ‘Taste of Taki Taki’, a four-course tasting menu that can be paired with signature cocktails. The menu curated and helmed by Chef Amit Shetty consists of an array of Japanese and pan-Asian dishes, that boasts and offers something for everyone - from salads to sushi, dim sum to mains, and staples to desserts.

The menu offers a wide selection of salads and soups like Thai Glass Noodle Salad, Tom Kha Soup, Miso Soup etc. The signature sushi includes Tempura Asparagus Roll, Taki Taki Maki Roll, and dim sum like - Green Vegetable & Cheese, Chicken Gyoza, Prawn Petit and more. Mains include classics like - Mapo Tofu, Massaman Curry, and Chicken in Thai Basil to name a few. You can pair it up with Edamame Fried Rice, Yaki Udon Noodles or Steamed Jasmine Rice. The sweet-toothed will enjoy ending their meal with Buche De Noe’l, soaked fruits, toffee swiss roll, and chocolate ganache and Stick & Stone, coconut pandan, mango basil, mascarpone cream on a bed of cinnamon dust.

This tasting menu will be available during weekdays for lunch between 12 to 3 pm.

To make the occasion even more memorable, Taki Taki is also giving a complimentary dessert to all guests dining between the 13th to 20th Jan! So, join in with your clan to celebrate the Anniversary at Taki Taki, Lower Parel.

Other Information:

Price : 999 + Taxes

Time: 12 pm to 12.30 am

Date: 13th to 17th Jan, 2023 

Address: World Crest, Unit no.1A & 1B, Lodha, Upper Worli, Lower Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400013

For reservations: +91 7400491480

IHG builds on voco brand debut in India with another signing in Gurugram

January 2023, New Delhi: IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement with Atharva Hotel Superfluities India Pvt Ltd for a new build voco hotel - voco Gurugram Golf Course Extension Road. The hotel is currently in the advanced stages of construction and will open soon, adding 204 keys to IHG’s premium portfolio in the country. The signing of a voco hotel in a Tier 1 city such as Gurugram will support the company’s growth ambitions for the brand in the South-West Asia region and build on the recent debut of the brand in India.  

As one of IHG’s fastest-growing premium brands, voco allows guests to enjoy a unique and refreshed experience. Since launching globally in 2018, voco has enjoyed rapid growth with multiple signings across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia (EMEAA).

The hotel will be located just off the main Golf Course Extension Road, My Den, M3M Urbana, an established business and commercial area of Gurugram. In addition to modern guestrooms offering premium comfort, the hotel will feature all-day dining restaurant, lobby lounge, a bar, an outdoor pool, and a gymnasium. To cater to the increasing demands of corporate guests, the hotel will also offer meeting rooms and a business center equipped with the latest technology.

Strategically located opposite the International Financial Center, voco Gurugram Golf Course Extension Road is expected to receive excellent visibility due to its frontage along the main road. The hotel is also a few minutes’ drive from Cyber City, the main corporate and recreational hub of Gurugram and in close proximity to the city’s established IT Special Economic Zones, making it a suitable choice for business and leisure travelers. The hotel also provides easy access to the Indira Gandhi International Airport, as well as Gurgaon Railway Station, with both located less than 25 minutes from the hotel.

Commenting on the second signing of voco brand in India, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts said, “We are delighted to partner with Atharva Hotel Superfluities India Pvt Ltd to sign our second voco hotel in India. This signing of voco Gurugram Golf Course Extension Road hotel is a testimony to IHG’s commitment to grow footprint in India and introduce global brands with strong synergies for guests in the right locations.

He added, “As an integral part of Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), Gurugram is a dynamic market that has established itself as one of the most prominent and preferred business locations in the country, attracting big corporate houses and MNCs. As one of India’s largest financial and banking hubs, Gurugram is a befitting market to grow the voco brand further in the country and attract new set of travelers to the IHG family, who are looking for premium hospitality experiences. We are confident that the new voco hotel in Gurugram will be a preferred choice for our guests visiting the NCR region.”

Prawal Choudhary, Chairman, “Atharva Hotel Superfluities India Pvt. Ltd.” marketed as Atharva Hotels & Resorts, added, “We are thrilled to partner with a trusted hospitality player like IHG to bring a voco hotel to the NCR, a brand that has seen rapid growth and success globally. We are confident that with an excellent location in Gurugram and a differentiated and refreshing brand proposition, the new voco hotel will provide a unique experience to both leisure and corporate guests.”

voco Gurugram Golf Course Extension Road hotel guests will also have access to a best-in-class loyalty program, IHG One Rewards, which is centered around its guests – giving them richer benefits and more ways to earn than ever before, all powered by leading technology on its new mobile app

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 September 30, 2022

Top 8 travel destinations where you can enjoy Airtel 5G services

With the new year, we have already started counting the long weekends and holidays to plan our trips in advance. While traveling and holiday planning sounds interesting, people suffer from connectivity issues even in exotic tourist places due to a lack of network infrastructure. Hence turning the excitement down, when you face challenges in connecting with your loved ones over call, watching 4K videos, uploading videos/pictures on social media, or quickly sending an important work email.

Not to worry anymore, we’ve listed down some of the famous tourist destinations where you can enjoy the Airtel 5G network using the same 4G SIM on your 5 G-enabled smartphones at a speed 20- 30 times faster than what you experience today.

• Siliguri: Home to the North Bengal Science Centre, Digital planetarium, and model T. rex, Siliguri is a beautiful city in the northeast Indian state of West Bengal. It sits in the foothills of the Himalayas, surrounded by tea gardens. With multiple restaurants serving mouthwatering vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, Siliguri is a beautiful place to plan your next family trip. Along with that, areas including Hill Point, Sevoke road, Bidhan market, and Orbit mall are some of the places where you can seamlessly enjoy a faster Airtel 5G network. The best time to plan your trip is from October to February.

• Varanasi: Popularly known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi attracts Hindu pilgrims all year round. Areas including Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Ghatt Road, Adampur, Beniya Bagh Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Rajghat, Sarnath, Sigra, Thater Bazaar, and Varanasi Airport are already enjoying fast Airtel 5G, which ensures your next travel without worrying about the network in the area.

• Shimla: Thinking of trip to the hills? Shimla is your best option. With multiple options of comfortable stays and restaurants, Shimla has always been the favorite family destination for ages now. But network has been a matter of concern on the mountains. But with 5G network on Mall Road, Sanjoli, Dhalli, BhattaKufar, Ridge and Sanjoli Helipad area, you can easily access high speed internet connectivity on your 5G smartphone with the existing Airtel 4G sim, without worrying about spending extra on the packs.

• Ahmedabad: If you are thinking of exploring different cultures of India, this city should be on your list. With Sabarmati River running through its center, you can visit Gandhi Ashram at western bank of Sabarmati, which displays the spiritual leader’s living quarters and artifacts. Across the river, the Calico Museum of Textiles, once a cloth merchant's mansion, has a significant collection of antique and modern fabric. Areas including SG Highway, Memnagar, Satellite, Navrangpura, Sabarmati, Motera, Chandkheda, South Bopal, Gomtipur, Memco and Bapunagar in Ahmedabad and places including Koba, Raysan, Sargasan, Pethapur in Gandhi Nagar are some of Airtel 5G areas where you can easily enjoy non-stop internet access.

• Srinagar: To enjoy the natural environment, gardens, waterfronts and houseboats, Srinagar is the favorite tourist destination of all times. Also known as the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, It lies in the Kashmir Valley on the banks of the Jhelum River, a tributary of the Indus, and Dal and Anchar lakes. Areas including Lal Chowk, Dal Lake, Rajbagh, Kashmir University, Karan Nagar, Channpora, Srinagar Secretariat, Nishat Garden, Chashma Shahi and Old City are already enjoying faster Airtel 5G network, allowing people connectivity all the time.

• Vizag: Vizag or Visakhapatnam, also known as port city and industrial center in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, on the Bay of Bengal is known for its many beaches, including Ramakrishna Beach, home to a preserved submarine at the Kursura Submarine Museum. Along with the beaches, Vizag is home to Kali Temple and the Visakha Museum, an old Dutch bungalow housing local maritime and historical exhibits. Areas including Dwarka Nagar, Beach Road, Dhaba gardens, Maddilapalem, Waltair Uplands, Purna Market, Gajuwaka JN, MVP Colony, Ramnagar, Railway station road, Tenneti nagar are some of the areas with non-stop Airtel 5G network.

• Bhubaneswar and Cuttack: Referred to as the 'twin cities' of Odisha, both the cities are situated at a distance of 27 kms and are home to many religious temples including Hindu Lingaraja Temple, Rajarani Temple and Maa Cuttack Chandi Temple. Areas including Nandan Vihar, Prashanti Vihar, KIIT, Kalarahanga, Chandaka Industrial Estate, Infocity, Kanan Vihar Ph I & Ph II, Sailashree Vihar, Niladri Vihar, Gadakana, Shree Vihar, Chandrasekharpur, BDA Colony, East Coast Railway Colony, XIMB, Fortune Tower, Maitree Vihar, Jaydev Vihar, Ekamra Kanan Park, Jagannath Vihar, IRC Village, Kalinga Stadium, Beherasahi, Shastri Nagar, CRPF Square, Sum Hospital Area, Bharatpur, Khandagiri, Aiginia, Kalinga Nagar, Kalinga Vihar, Jagamara, Dumduma, AIMS Hospital, Patrapada, Acharya Vihar, Chakeisiani, Rasulgarh, Sahid Nagar, Satya Nagar, Kharavela Nagar, Master Canteen, Rajmahal, Bapuji Nagar, Forest Park, Ganganagar, Kalpana, BJB Nagar, Lewis Road, Ravi Talkies, Samantarapur, Bargada BRIT Colony, Laxmisagar, Chintamaniswar, Palasuni in Bhubaneswar & Balikuda, Gopalpur, Kalyaninagar, Balisahi, Rajendra Nagar, Nuasahi, Nayabazar, Mahanadi Vihar, Chauliaganj, OMP, Railway Station, Malgodown, Shankarpur, Badambadi, Dolamundai, Choudhury Bazar, Balubazar, Darghabazar, Machhuabazar, Beparisahi, Barabati Stadium, Chandimandir, Kanika Chhak, CDA Sector - 6, CDA Sector - 7, CDA Sector - 10, CDA Sector - 11 in Cuttack offer the tourists nonstop 5G network on their Airtel network.

• Kochi: Known as the Queen of Arabian Sea, the city also flaunts one of the finest natural harbors of the world and was the centre of the world spice trade for many centuries. Old Kochi (presently called West Kochi) loosely refers to a group of islands which comprise Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry and many more. Areas including Kadavanthara, Panampilly Nagar, Jawahar Nagar, Kaloor, Kacheripady, Elamakkara, Ernakulam Town Hall, Ernakulam KSRTC Junction, MG Road/Maharaja’s College Grounds, Edapally, Palarivattom NH, Vyttila, Chilavanur, Thoppumpady, Ravipuram and a few other locations offer the tourists nonstop 5G network on their Airtel network.

To experience Airtel 5G Plus in the above-mentioned cities all you need to do is simply switch your network settings to 5G on your 5G enabled smartphone and you are ready to go. Your current Airtel 4G SIM is forward-compatible with 5G and works seamlessly on your 5G smartphone.

Ingredient Ideology | Passion for Pea to Good Health By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani: Celebrity Master Chef

Passion for Pea to Good Health

It is commonly known as Kabuli Chana in Hindi and garbanzo in Spanish is a well-known high protein belonging to the legume family. They are one of the earliest cultivated legumes and originally found in the middle-east chickpeas have since become popular across the globe.

It is one of the most popular ingredients and is included as a part of our regular diets in the Indian sub-continent. Chhole as we fondly call commonly is made in a number of ways in various parts of India, while it is more popular in the north some of my favorites include the aloo tikki chhole chaat, the street side popular and dhaba style chhole kulche especially in Amritsar is out of the world. Besides we also use chickpeas in a number of ways too from dips to salads and even baked dishes and in stews too.

Health Benefits of Chickpeas:

• They are a good source of fiber in our diets.

• Chickpeas boost the immunity in our body.

• They are rich in calcium and iron content.

• Chickpeas are heart healthy food.

• Helps in regulating hormonal changes.

• Provides a healthy glowing skin.

• Is good to have in order to keep blood pressure in control.

• Chickpeas increase satiety value in our body

• They are also considered good for a weight loss diet.

• Chickpeas are an excellent source of vegetarian proteins.

• They are widely used in vegan diets and are energizing as well.

• Chickpeas are very rich in minerals as well and are nourishing for our system.

Culinary Uses of Chickpeas:

• Also known as Kabuli chana it is significant in our Indian cuisine and very popular in our homes when it comes to chhole Chawal or Chhole Kulche or Bhature are an all-time favorite.

• Chana is also very popular to make cutlets, tikkis for snacks and koftas as well in rich creamy gravies.

• Kabuli chane wala pulao, chhole aur makhane ki biryani, chickpea pilaf rice, stir fried rice with chickpeas and greens are also some ways of using it.

• Chickpeas are also used to make dips like the most famous one being hummus from middle-eastern cuisine it is now also modified in several colors and flavors as well but the best one classic taste still remains.

• They are also good to add into salads as they make you feel full and add a good filler value as well into the bowl.

• Using it in the famous Indian Chaats has ever since been a weakness of many of us, the StreetSide stalls, food counters are so very mesmerizing with varieties of chickpeas being used, must try some nice mashed chick pea dahi bhallas for a change from the regulars.

• The Moroccan and Turkish cuisines also boast of chickpeas in their world-famous delicacies called tajine with couscous in which chickpeas are a part of the stew in the tajine with meat/chicken and vegetables.

• Chickpeas mashed up spiced and added as stuffing into a paratha also creates variety in parathas and is a feel-good experience too.

• In some of the cuisines, we also use them in stir-fried forms as well a little olive oil, garlic, mint and some light seasonings toss the boiled chickpeas in it and add a splash of lime juice and a few crushed roasted peanuts have it like a in between meal snack.

• Kabuli chane with palak gravy, methi Lasooni chhole, and the famous Bengali puries called loochies also go well with some nice chana masala.

• It is also grounded and its flour form also is useful in a number of recipes from thickening agents to adding binding and also taste and flavor in dough concepts where gluten can’t find its way.

Here are a few recipes with this charismatic ingredient:

Recipe-1] NUTTY CHICKPEA DIP

Ingredients:

Boiled chickpeas- 1 cup

Garlic- 1 tsp chop

Olive oil- 2 tbsp.

Peanut butter-1 tbsp.

Salt and crushed black pepper to taste

Lime juice- 1 tbsp.

Chilled water- 2 -3 tbsp.

Tahini paste- 2 tbsp.

Mint leaves- 8-10 no.

Paprika powder- ¼ tsp

Chaat masala powder- ½ tsp

To serve with: crackers/ sticks of vegetables/ grilled skewers of chicken/ cottage cheese.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the dip.

2. In a food processor combine together all the ingredients and adding olive oil and chilled water blend to a smooth paste.

3. Remove into a serving bowl, drizzle little olive oil, sprinkle a little paprika powder, chaat masala powder and few whole boiled chickpeas and some greens for garnish. Serve chilled with varieties as per choice.

Recipe-2] FUSION CHICKPEA CHAAT

Ingredients:

Boiled chickpeas- 1 cup

Boiled groundnuts- ¼ cup

Blanched moong sprouts-1/2 cup

For the chaat:

Onions + tomatoes+ green chilies+ mint + coriander as desired.

Chaat masala- to taste

Salt to taste

Roasted crushed jeera powder-1/4 tsp

Lime juice- 1 tbsp.

Imli chutney- 2 tbsp.

Green mint and coriander chutney- 1 tbsp.

Mayonnaise- ¼ cup + chili sauce- 1 tsp + tomato ketchup -1 tsp- mix well.

Fried/roasted peanuts- 2 tbsp. for garnish.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the fusion chana chaat.

2. In a mixing bowl combine all the ingredients and toss the chana chaat.

3. Arrange on a serving plate and top with a drizzling of the mayo mixture and serve chilled.

4. As an additional variety add slices of chicken tikka, seekh kababs, boiled eggs, sliced chicken sausages etc.

Recipe-3] ASIAN CHICKPEA STEW

Ingredients:

Boiled chickpeas- 1 cup

Boiled rajma-1/4 cup

Oil- 1 tbsp.

Butter-1 tsp

Bayleaf-2 no

Peppercorns-4-5

Garlic- 1 tsp chop

Onion- 1 med size chop

Tomato puree-1 cup

Salt and pepper to taste

Mixed herbs- ½ tsp

Chili flakes-1/2 tsp

Potato cubes- ½ cup

Carrots-1/4 cup cubes

Green peas/ French beans/capsicums/corn as desired.

Peanut butter- 1 tbsp. mixed with ¼ cup warm water + 1 tsp soy sauce.

Water/veg stock- 2-3 cups

Raisins/cashews/almonds- 2 tbsp. 

Coriander and mint leave- 1 tbsp. chop for garnish.

For non-veg- chicken cubes/ mutton pieces/ prawns.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the stew.

2. Heat oil and butter and add in the Bayleaf, peppercorns, garlic and onion and saute for 15-30 seconds.

3. Add in the tomato and all seasonings and herbs, add a little all spice or garam masala powder if desired.

4. Add in the vegetables of our choice and chickpeas and rajma and saute all well add water or stock, allow to simmer for 10-15 mins, finally add in the peanut butter mixture and stir well, cook for 5 mins.

5. Serve hot garnished with greens and serve along with brown rice or assorted breads.

Recipe-4] MARINATED CHICKPEA AND QUINOA SALAD

Ingredients:

Boiled chickpeas- 1 cup

Cooked quinoa-1/2 cup

For the marination:

Olive oil-2 tbsp.

Mustard paste-1/2 tsp

Chili sauce-1 tsp

Salt and crushed black pepper to taste

Herbs like fresh basil/oregano/thyme/parsley- 1 tsp

Chaat masala-1/2 tsp

Roasted crushed cumin powder-1/4 tsp

Lime juice- 2 tbsp.

White vinegar-1 tsp

Sugar-1/2 tsp

To Add to the Salad: sliced chicken sausages/ boiled cubes of eggs/ saute prawns/ cucumber dices/ cherry tomatoes/ cubes of bell peppers/ saute sliced mushrooms/ boiled American corn/ blanched broccoli/Babycorn etc. [ any choice to be used]

For the base of the salad:

Iceberg lettuce/ assorted greens for the base of the salad.

For the garnish of the salad:

Feta cheese/ black /green olives/ fresh micro greens/ parsley/ cherry tomatoes/ sunflower seeds/ flaxseeds.

Method:

1. Prepare the ingredients for the salad as listed.

2. Marinate the chickpeas and keep them aside for 15-20 mins.

3. Toss the salad with the other choice of ingredients as per the list above and adjust the seasonings.

4. Create a base of the leaves on a serving plate or bowl, place the body and garnish appropriately and serve the salad chilled.

Flavors Of India food festival to kick start at Mado Mado, Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai International Airport

Flavors Of India food festival to kick start at Mado Mado, Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai International Airport from Friday, 20th January.

Details of Food festival at Mado Mado, Fairfield by Marriott

Food festival name 

Flavors of India  

Dates : 

20th January to 29th January  

26th Special Republic Day Brunch 

Timings: Dinner 

7:30 to 11:30 pm  

Contact details :

8657894131

Pricing 

₹ 1895 Plus Taxes 

Idea of food festival : 

Immerse in authentic taste of Indian Cuisine specially curated by Chef Tejas And Team at Fairfield by Marriott 

The motive of Food Festival : 

Food lovers can experience cuisines from around India since it’s time to celebrate Republic Day and the spirit of India reflects in Food of India.

The objective is to highlight and offer guests an array of Rich and Royal Cuisine from India ranging from Various starters to vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. With Different Live counters on all the days from different states. The event will be a feast for food lovers and Executive Chef Tejas Gowda of Fairfield by Marriott and his team will whip out delicacies from different states.

Delicacies that will be part of the festival are

Meen Molly from Kerala

Undhiyu from Gujrat 

Farsan from Gujarat

Maharashtra Usal Pav 

Hyderabadi Keema

Amritsari Chole Kulche

Delhi Ke Parathe

Sweets

Rajasthani Ghewar 

Bengoli Sandesh 

Agra ka petha 

Payasam

Punjab ka Balushahi

Aate ka halwa

Kesar Phirni

Gujarati Basundi

Kashmiri Shufta (halwa)

Vakkaru Maldives to host ‘Sip and Savour Tuscany’, A one-of-a-kind wine dinner with famed Banfi winery and Michelin star Chef Domenico Francone.

Vakkaru Maldives is excited to bring a slice of Tuscany to the island paradise this January with an ultra-exclusive wine dinner on 22 January 2023, in collaboration with the famed Banfi winery, one Michelin star Chef Domenico Francone, and Di-vine Cellars Maldives.

The one-night-only dinner at Isoletta beach, will see Chef Domenico create a five-course dinner showcasing the best of Italian flavours paired with a curated selection of wines from the Banfi portfolio.

Banfi was founded in 1978 by Italian-American brothers John and Harry Mariani. Over the past 40 years, Banfi has built a successful and notable history through four key pillars – pioneering, research, innovation, and sustainability – that have helped shape the company’s story and contributed to its success. The Banfi is arguably the most famous of the brand’s Italian wineries. Located just outside the hilltop village of Montalcino, in one of the world’s most famous wine-producing regions, Tuscany, it produces world-class Brunello’s, Rosso’s and Super Tuscans. Banfi also operates other estates throughout Tuscany and Piedmont, producing various red, white, and rose wines.

The centrepiece of their extensive vineyards in Tuscany is the stunning, walled and turreted 13th-century castle, Castello Poggio Alle Mura. It houses a hotel, a glass museum, the Enoteca, and two restaurants, including the one Michelin star, La Sala dei Grappoli -- Chef Domenico Francone’s domain.

Originally from Puglia, Chef Domenico Francone grew up in a family with a strong culinary tradition. After graduating from the IPSAR Antonio Turi in Matera, he gained experience in several prestigious Italian and international restaurants, including at German super chef Heinz Beck’s starred restaurant in London, Apsleys. On his return to Italy, he was offered the executive chef post of La Taverna, Castello Banfi’s other restaurant. He then headed the opening of La Sala dei Grappoli, serving a seasonal menu of traditional Tuscan dishes with a modern twist that won the restaurant its first Michelin Star in 2020.

Chef Domenico will bring his culinary expertise and authentic Tuscan flavours to Vakkaru and create an unforgettable dining experience for guests. “I am amazed by the natural beauty of Vakkaru island and all the wonderful experiences it offers. I look forward to enjoying them when I am on the island,” he says.

“I am thrilled to bring the authentic flavours of Tuscany to Vakkaru and to share my passion for Italian cuisine with the guests,” says Chef Domenico. “The combination of my signature dishes such as the ‘Tortelli like Eggplant Parmigiana’ and the ‘Tenderloin, artichoke, vegetables caponata and Brunello di Montalcino Jus’, and the exceptional wines from Banfi will create a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Speaking about the upcoming dinner, Iain McCormack, General Manager, Vakkaru Maldives, says, “We are always looking for ways to enhance the guest experience at Vakkaru and give them elevated culinary offerings. Thanks to Di-vine Cellars, this collaboration with Chef Domenico and Banfi allows us to do just that. We can’t wait for our guests to experience the authentic Italian taste and exceptional wines at Isoletta.”

For reservations and general information, visit vakkarumaldives.com or contact reservations@vakkarumaldives.com.

Moon Tree Café at Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur celebrates ‘Xinnian 2023’

Xinnian is the festival that celebrates the start of a new year according to the traditional Chinese calendar. It’s a celebration marked by good food, red envelopes, and blessings for all. Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur celebrates the ‘Xinnian’ from 12th January to 22nd January 2023. Each Chinese year is associated with an animal sign according to the Chinese zodiac cycle. 2023 is the year of the Rabbit, which is a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity in Chinese culture. Moon Tree Café will be decorated on the Red Theme as the festival's main colour is red, which is thought to be an auspicious colour for the Lunar New Year, denoting prosperity and energy.

Guests can experience the sumptuous delicacies from the regions of China and can be surrounded by the vibrant culture of the Xinnian. The festive meal will encompass appetizers, salads, mains, cocktails, mocktails & desserts. Chef Tsiring Pembba has curated a special menu which comprises tantalizing appetizers and mains including Tsing Hoi Cottage Cheese, Diced Aromatic Tofu, Fish Hakka Style, Roasted Lamb Chilli Garlic, Tofu & Egg Plant in Hot Bean Sauce, Mei Fun Rice Noodles, Mahlak Kai, Four Season Prawns, and Fire Ball Fish among others. The mains are accompanied by a choice of desserts including Toffee (Apple/ Banana/Lychee), Pancake and Honey Tossed Noodles.

Moon tree is the only place at Kolhapur that offers you a wide range of gourmet food from Indian, Fusion, Chinese, Mediterranean, European and the finest quality coffee 24X7.

Venue - Moon Tree Café, Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur

Date - 12th January to 22nd January 2023

Time - Lunch 12:30 PM To 4 PM & Dinner 6:30 PM To 10 PM

Visit -  www.sayajihotels.com

Gujarat-based Tea Brand, Seven Spring, Introduced India’s First 100% Compostable Tea Sachets

Aiming to curtail one of the world’s largest environmental problems of global plastic pollution, Seven Spring, the premium tea brand from Gujarat, has introduced India’s first-ever 100% compostable tea bag sachets with zero plastic and aluminium foils. This new packaging is environment-friendly and focuses to cut back on waste, zero plastic consumption, and carbon emissions. To contribute its bit to build a pollution free Nation, in-line with the Government’s G20 initiative, Gujarat based start-up, Seven Spring came up with this packaging.

Talking about the move of introducing 100% compostable packaging, Sejal Purohit, Founder of Seven Spring said, “Going environment friendly or sustainable is no longer an option. We have reached a point where absurdly large amounts of single-use plastic are being used. Every company needs to make effort to reduce the use of single-use plastics. All of Seven Spring’s product range comes with sustainable and eco-friendly packaging and we are going to follow this in the future too.”

Celebrate Makar Sankranti with a Hearty Brunch at The Bayview, Hotel Marine Plaza, this January 2023

National, January 2022: With Makar Sankranti around the corner, it is time to adorn the sky with colorful kites and relish the taste buds with traditional dishes. The preparations for the festivities are taking place in full swing, and this year instead of planning what you’re going to cook, plan where you’re going to go. Located at Hotel Marine Plaza, The Bayview Restaurant, known for the view and brunch, is all set to celebrate the occasion on 15th January 2023, with a special menu.

Commence your Sankranti celebration with The Bayview’s luxurious brunch buffet! You can indulge in a selection of traditional dishes on the menu. The menu highlight includes, Soups like Shimla Mirch Tamatar Aur Dhaniya Shorba, Chicken and Asparagus Soup, Assortment of International Breads; Starters such as Curd Rice Arancini With Curry Leaves Tomato Dip, Palak Panner ki Seekh, Mutton Shikampuri Kabab, Chicken Drumstick with Hot Garlic Sauce, Seafood Larb Patti Samosa; Veg and Non-veg main course dishes such as Mangolian Stir fry exotic vegetables, Vegetable Hakka Noodles, Spinach, Ricotta and Pine Nuts Ravioli with creamy Tomato sauce, Exotic vegetables in Thai Green Curry, Roast Chicken with Merlot Jus, Pan Seared red snapper, Chimichurri with sweet potato puree, Edamame Szechuan Lamb Chop and a selection of exotic luscious; Desserts such as Strawberry Gateaux, Passion Fruit Delight, Dry Fruit Mulhalabiya, Pineapple Upside down and much more.

Keeping up with the traditions, they will also be offering - Til ka Laddo, Gajak, Rajgira Laddo, Tilkut, Karanji,  Dahi chuda,Kale til ke Patti, Chikki and Chakli. The live stations have Chicken Shawarma and Puran Poli. How can someone miss on the Indian Desserts - Jalebi, Kala Jamun,Chenna Toast,Nariyal ki barfi and Gajar Ka Halwa 

So, join in with your family and friends to celebrate the first festival of the year!

Other Information:

Time: 12 PM TO 3 PM

Price: INR 2200+ taxes

Date: 15th January 2023

Address: Hotel Marine Plaza, 29 Marine Drive, 2nd Cross Rd, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020

USHER IN THE YEAR OF THE RABBIT AT THE BEST ADDRESS

Celebrate this auspicious Chinese New Year with authentic Asian indulgences at By the Mekong and Seven Kitchens

January 2023- As we usher in the year of the rabbit, this Chinese New Year, raise a toast to fortune and vitality with authentic Asian delicacies at The Best Address. Marking the arrival of the auspicious Lunar year, The St. Regis Mumbai offers Chinese specialties at two of the city’s finest dining venues – By the Mekong and Seven Kitchens.

Celebrate new beginnings as you indulge in distinctive flavors of the Far East with a thoughtfully curated menu by Chef Raymond Wong complemented by sweeping views of the city at By the Mekong, Level 37, Penthouse at The St. Regis Mumbai.  Redefining Asian cuisine in a contemporary style, Chef Wong captures the spirit of the auspicious Lunar Year with exquisite culinary indulgences that symbolizes abundance and good health.

Experience Asian gastronomy with a spread of eight lucky treasures at By the Mekong: Hanoi Golden Crispy Fritters in Basil and Lemongrass Dressing Open Bao, Crispy Fried Pattaya Shrimp and Cake Dipping in Sour Cucumber Dressing, amongst others. Complementing the delicacies are handcrafted cocktails like Rose and Lychee cognac, Jasmine and Grapefruit cognac, Hennessy Goji and Lychee cognac and many more.

Ring in the festive spirits and treat your taste buds as you welcome the Chinese New Year with a lavish brunch at the all-day dining venue, Seven Kitchens. The spread will feature Poon Choi with Eight Delicacies, Braised Pork Leg, Charcoal Prawn Har Gao, Steamed Lotus Root with Tofu and Spinach & Water Chestnut Dumplings amongst others along with signature concoctions like Chinatown Spring Punch and TSINGTAO Beer!

Indulge in an authentic spread of Chinese cuisine signatures with friends and family as you welcome the year of abundance at The Best Address!

Chinese New Year 2023, The St. Regis Mumbai

BY THE MEKONG

Date: 18th to 28th January 2023

Time: Lunch- 12:00 noon onwards

           Dinner- 9:00 pm onwards

Price: A la carte (8 signature dishes)

Brunch at Seven Kitchens

Date: 22nd January 2023

Time: 12:30pm – 4:00pm

Price: Non-Alcoholic – INR 2800 ++

            Alcoholic - INR 4000++

            Champagne- INR 6500 ++

For restaurant reservations or more information on Penthouse, please contact on +91 86579 07732 / ph.dining@stregis.com

For reservations at St. Regis, please call -

Mobile - +91 8657522956

Telephone - 022 6162 8422 / 022 6162 8000

The Westin, Goa to Host the Biggest Pilates Festival Presented by Yasmin Karachiwala

Mumbai, January 2023: Experience the essence of susegad, the Goan concept of relaxed contentment, at The Westin Goa. The hotel is set in one of the world’s most desirable locations, near the sun-kissed Arabian Sea beaches and verdant green hills; there are countless opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation here. One such exceptional opportunity presents itself as Yasmin Karachiwala, India’s leading celebrity Pilates instructor who has over three decades of experience in the fitness industry, announces her 4th Pilates festival. The Pilates Festival India will be held at The Westin in Goa, from the 2nd to the 5th of February 2023. This health and wellness retreat is open to everyone; both novice and expert alike can broaden their knowledge of what Pilates is by attending. Attendees will train with International Pilates master instructors, and in the process also enjoy a rejuvenating retreat at the forest-clad luxury hotel, to embody their best selves.

The sprawling luxury hotel, merely 2 km from the beach in exotic Goa, lends itself as the perfect location to host the Pilates retreat. The celebrity instructor, in coordination with The Westin, has specially curated the food menu as well as exceptional evening entertainment for the upcoming festival. The first night includes an event centred on Sufi whirling, the second night will see a musical concert take place and the retreat will conclude with an awards ceremony. The hotel itself includes a spa, a 24-hour gym, an outdoor pool and a kid’s clubhouse; amenities which can be easily accessed by the attendees. Take advantage of an abundance of on-property activities, relax at the spa or explore nearby attractions in Anjuna and North Goa. The Westin is nestled amidst an idyllic sanctuary that is bound to captivate your senses from the moment you arrive until you finally stretch out in the beautifully appointed rooms and suites after a full day of working those muscles.

“Pilates Festival India has been my dream for many years, and it finally became a reality 5 years ago. Each year, we try and get better, try and add more value, and outdo ourselves from the previous year.” Says Yasmin Karachiwala, curator of the festival. “I want PFI to deepen your knowledge of what Pilates is, to push you to your fitness limits and to expand the possibilities of your physical horizons & have fun. I hope that you will enjoy the 4 days as much as we have enjoyed planning it for you. We are committed to making this the best fitness retreat you have ever attended”. 

Previous years have seen the coming together of 250+ participants, 14+ celebrity promoters  6+ wellness and nutrition experts, with 1.6 million people reached digitally. To register for the festival please visit www.bodyimage.in and to learn more about it follow pilatesfestivalindia on Instagram.

Dr. Chef Kaviraj Khialani awarded with India News Index- city excellence awards 2023.

Chef Kaviraj khialani has been recently awarded with the city excellence awards for 2023 for his untiring efforts and dedication towards the food and Hospitality industry and Education sector.

Besides being actively associated with the hotel and Hospitality industry and sector involving various verticals and branches associated with Hospitality he has been assisting and helping thousands of skilled and professional entities from the industry at various levels and has also been an active mentor and coach - an iconic name in the field of Hospitality Education as well.

We congratulate chef kaviraj on this very much well deserved award and recognition at the start of 2023.

Six Senses Laamu Celebrates the Inauguration of the Sea Hub of Environmental Learning in Laamu (SHELL)

Science, marine conservation, and education meet high-end hospitality in a new hub on the shores of Six Senses Laamu.

LAAMU, Maldives – January 2023 – Six Senses Laamu proudly announces the opening of the Sea Hub for Environmental Learning in Laamu (SHELL) on March 1, 2023. The SHELL sits on the resort’s sunset beach, covering a total area of 5,952 square feet (553 square meters), with its cornerstone placed on May 6, 2022. It will house the Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI), a marine conservation collaborative consisting of Six Senses Laamu marine biologists and partner NGOs, The Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation, and the Olive Ridley Project, along with a gallery exhibition space, offices, marine laboratory, cinema room, and kids’ zone. Virtual and augmented reality technologies and conservation art will further enhance the space.

Marteyne van Well, Regional General Manager, says, “Healing the ocean requires understanding first. The environmentalist Baba Dioum once said, ‘In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand, and we will understand only what we are taught.’ So, let us teach; let us educate the new generation on the importance of nature conservation. This is the vision behind the Sea Hub for Environmental Learning in Laamu; to engage the hearts and minds of our guests, our local communities, and our hosts. Our wish is for us and our owners, HPL Hotels & Resorts, to leave a legacy in the Laamu Atoll, where science and leisure come together with one goal: to discover more and be inspired to protect our oceans.”

The SHELL is a multi-use space designed for guest education and for offering curated and immersive marine conservation experiences. The 2,336 square-foot (217 square-meter) central exhibition space invites guests to explore the colorful and vibrant local marine life during out-of-the-ordinary encounters. The MUI team will be offering hands-on guest activities and presentations parallel to their research, conservation efforts, and initiatives. The SHELL will also feature designated facilities for hosting world-class researchers to further expand MUI’s ambitious goal to see sustainable resource management in Laamu.

Stephen Lau, Chairman of HPL Hotels & Resorts, says, "The SHELL is the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Six Senses Laamu and the resort’s long record in marine conservation and community outreach. Our wish to make Laamu atoll a better place for generations to come has been our common vision of HPL, and that common vision has been the driving force behind what made this project come to life today. We hope aspiring marine biologists and budding conservationists will be inspired by the stories and research the SHELL is carrying out and that travelers and partners alike will wish to be part of the conservation journey. The SHELL helps us all give a voice to the atoll's incredible marine ecosystems and our combined responsibility to protect it, now more than ever."

With the goal of bringing an immersive experience to the guests at the SHELL, the central gallery, also called the Tank, boasts a high-resolution LED display floor and five educational viewing booths for kids and adults. It features diverse underwater scenes of the Laamu atoll to give insights into selected micro-topics on marine life. This immersive gallery, designed by Illuminate Productions in Singapore, is unique in the Maldives and seeks to showcase and educate guests on the exciting marine life around Six Senses Laamu. Inspired by a glass-bottom boat, the content will be periodically updated to reflect new footage captured by the resort’s dive team and diver hosts, bringing about an ever-changing canvas for guests to enjoy during different visits to the resort.

“The opening of the SHELL at Six Senses Laamu is a milestone moment for the resort and the company overall, as it truly represents the passion for the ocean environment and biology, a key agenda item for Marteyne and her team. We are equally delighted and excited at how Six Senses, through the SHELL, is bringing to life our company values in the beautiful and fragile Maldives ecosystem,” states Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs.

The Kids’ Zone is designed for young (or young at heart) and aspiring marine biologists to discover the secrets of Laamu and the underwater world. Highlights include an augmented reality sandbox which allows the users to change and redesign habitats and topography using projection mapping technology, and the ‘Draw Alive’, where children will be able to color-in their favorite marine creatures and watch them come alive on a large screen with the help of advanced animation technology to watch them swim and move throughout a virtual world.

Lawrence Menz, Project Manager of the SHELL shared, “Just like the hermit crab that moves into a larger shell when it outgrows the previous one, The Maldives Underwater Initiative by Six Senses Laamu also needs a larger space to call home, as the team is growing in size and ambitions. The SHELL will showcase the stunning marine environment that surrounds us, with breathtaking visuals and immersive and hands-on interactive experiences. We will be conducting innovative research in our new laboratory facilities that we hope will help us find the answers to, at least, some of Laamu’s questions.”

The SHELL features a 506 square-foot (47 square-meter) amphitheater displaying stunning visuals of the underwater world as a backdrop for the team to tell their stories of the land and waters of Laamu and present their research and findings to guests and scientific peers.

Quoting Philippa Roe, Head Marine Biologist, “Over the years, the MUI team has been working to establish Laamu as a hub for marine research and become an example for sustainable marine resource management in the Maldives. Having presented 12 research papers at the 2022 Maldives Marine Science Symposium focused on research on Laamu, the center’s facilities will allow us to make even greater strides toward understanding and helping the marine environment and reaching our goal. It is this information that has contributed to the establishment of six Marine Protected Areas in the atoll, and Laamu being designated a Mission Blue Hope Spot in 2021.”

The team understands that conservation doesn’t happen overnight, and that to be truly successful, a combination of scientific research, community support, and international understanding is needed. The SHELL aims to bring together all these elements in an innovative and exciting way to safeguard the environment and people of Laamu.

Making Hospitality Accessible: How We Can Make Changes Now By Emilie Brown

The hospitality industry has long been a cornerstone of modern life. From restaurants to hotels, the industry is responsible for providing the services and experiences that make our lives more enjoyable. Yet, despite its prevalence, there is still a lot of work to be done in regard to accessibility. 

Hospitality needs to address accessibility on both an individual and systemic level in order to ensure everyone can benefit from its offerings. In addition, the industry must know how important accessibility is - and how it affects customer satisfaction.

Reimagining The World Of Hospitality Through Accessibility

1. Document Remediation

Document remediation is the process of making documents, websites, and other digital resources more accessible for people with disabilities. It involves revising text and images to make them easier to read and understand. For those in the hospitality industry, document remediation services can be a great way to ensure their clients get the best experience possible. 

Document remediation services can help hospitality businesses become ADA-compliant by ensuring accessibility requirements are met. This includes making sure all of their digital assets, such as menus or promotional material, are easy for everyone to access and understand. Making changes like this also helps create a positive brand image since it shows that your business is taking measures to accommodate everyone’s needs.

2. Audit Services

Audit services can help provide insight into how different environments conform to ADA standards and make necessary changes accordingly. Audit services take a deep dive into what makes up a facility’s overall accessibility level, such as assessing walkways, doors, beds/furniture placement, bathrooms and more. 

These audits also look at how employees interact with guests who may require special accommodations due to physical or cognitive limitations. This helps to ensure that the customer service provided adheres to the highest standards of hospitality across all levels of operations. 

3. Easy Booking System

Many people with impairments face major challenges because there is no accessible booking mechanism. Include a direct reservation option for accessible accommodation, showcasing the features and who the room will accommodate. This eliminates the need for guests to contact the hotel each time, saving both their and the workers' time.

4. Map Out Accessible Rooms

Mapping out accessible rooms is one way that hotels can ensure their space is truly open to all guests. By knowing which rooms are available for wheelchair users, those with hearing aids or other disabilities, hotels can easily provide a safe and comfortable stay for each guest. 

Additionally, mapping out accessible rooms enables staff to better plan ahead when coordinating events such as conferences or weddings. With advanced knowledge of which rooms are most suitable for particular groups or individuals, hoteliers can ensure that everyone attending has a pleasant experience during their stay.

5. Accessibility Training for Employees

To ensure that everyone can enjoy their stay in a hotel or restaurant, employers must take steps to provide proper training for employees on how to interact with those who require greater accessibility. 

Accessibility training can include lessons on how to communicate effectively with people of all abilities, as well as an understanding of basic accommodations and services that the establishment should provide. Additionally, staff should familiarize themselves with any specific laws or regulations regarding accessibility that may apply in their area. Employers must make sure every employee has a full understanding of what it means to provide accessible service so they can provide a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

6. Floor Layout Issues

It is important to ensure that the floor plan of business premises provides enough space for wheelchairs and other mobility aids to get through a dining space. Booths and high tables may also be an issue; therefore, it's essential to have enough of tables where wheelchairs may sit at comparable heights.

Final Thoughts 

Creating a more accessible hospitality industry isn’t just a moral obligation; it’s an opportunity to create stronger customer relationships and grow businesses. By investing in the right processes, understanding accessibility regulations and laws, and creating inclusive spaces that are welcoming to all, the hospitality industry can take real steps toward making sure everyone has access. Let’s make sure that hospitality is accessible for everyone—it’s time we make changes now!

Author Bio:  

Emilie Brown works with the Digital Marketing team at PREP, an AI-based remediation software that enables businesses to create WCAG and ADA-compliant PDFs in minutes. Her approach and methodology are simple, concise, and to the point and connect with readers seeking solution-driven content on topics related to accessibility and remediation. Apart from her time at work, she loves to spend time with her dog, volunteer, and play her guitar.

Document remediation services - https://prep.continualengine.com/services/

About Author:

Emilie Brown

works with the Digital Marketing team at PREP, an AI-based remediation software that enables businesses to create WCAG and ADA compliant PDFs in minutes. Her approach and methodology is simple, concise and to-the-point and connects with readers seeking for solution-driven content on topics related to accessibility and remediation. Apart from her time at work, she loves to spend time with her dog, volunteer and play her guitar.

PM Modi to flag off MV Ganga Vilas on Jan 13: Read all about ‘world’s longest river cruise’

The ship, MV Ganga Vilas, will sail across 27 river systems in India and Bangladesh, with the journey packed with visits to 50 tourist spots including World Heritage spots, national parks.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on January 13 flag off the 51-day luxury Ganga cruise from Varanasi to Dibrugarh, via Bangladesh, a 3,200-km river voyage being pitched as the world’s longest.

The ship, MV Ganga Vilas, will sail across 27 river systems in India and Bangladesh, with the journey packed with visits to 50 tourist spots including World Heritage spots, national parks.

According to a government statement issued Sunday, the cruise ship will pass through major cities like Patna in Bihar, Sahibganj in Jharkhand, Kolkata in West Bengal, Dhaka in Bangladesh and Guwahati in Assam, before reaching Dibrugarh, where it is expected to arrive on March 1.

“This will herald a new age of river cruise tourism for India,” said Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, adding that the idea is to explore the immense wealth that the country’s rich river system has to offer.

The journey will cost approximately Rs 25,000 per person per day, the operators told The Indian Express.

While the cruise is being managed by private operators, the Inland Waterways Authority of India, under the Ministry of Shipping, Ports and Waterways, has supported the project.

The Ganga cruise will make pit-stops to cover various historical, cultural and religious spots, including the famous Ganga Arti in Varanasi, the Buddhist site of Sarnath; and even Majuli, the largest river island in Assam.

The travellers will also visit the Bihar School of Yoga and Vikramshila University. The cruise will also traverse through the Sunderbans in the Bay of Bengal delta, as well as Kaziranga National Park.

Joshimath crisis highlights: Malari Inn hotel to be demolished today

Joshimath highlights: Joshimath, home to over 25,000 people, is an overnight halt for those visiting Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib, and other places. This has resulted in mushrooming of hotels and resorts in the area - a factor experts blame for the heaviest land subsidence reported there to till date.

Authorities will begin the demolition work of the hotels and houses in the Uttarakhand town - of Joshimath on Tuesday, which has developed cracks in the wake of the landslide and subsidence. Hotels Malari Inn and Mount View, which have developed more cracks, will be demolished, officials said. 

The demolition work will be supervised by the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) fielded to assist the local administration.

Joshimath, home to a population of more than 25,000 people, is an overnight halt for those visiting the shrines at Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib and other tourist destinations, which has resulted in mushrooming of too many hotels and resorts in the area - a factor which the experts blame for the heaviest land subsidence reported in the town till date. According to state government officials, there are around 3,800 residential structures and 400 commercial buildings in the town.

The evacuation bid comes even as the Uttarakhand government is working on a plan to rehabilitate the affected locals gripped with panic and fear and staring at an uncertain future.

Meanwhile, the District Disaster Management Authority, Chamoli issued a bulletin in view of landslides in the Joshimath area. The bulletin said that cracks have been noticed in a total of 678 buildings in the town and in view of security, about 81 families have been temporarily displaced from the region.

Six Senses Vana Marks the Launch of the Brand's First Dedicated Wellness RetreatStarting the New Year with a journey of self-discovery, health, and healing in the Himalayan foothills of India

INDIA – January 2023 – From today, Six Senses has brought the much-loved and well-established Vana into its portfolio. The ethos is to immerse guests into a personalized wellness journey where ancient wisdom meets innovation.

Named after the sal forest it takes refuge in and spread over 21 acres, Six Senses Vana aims to protect and nurture, providing space to discover and flourish. Ayurveda, Yoga, Tibetan Medicine, and Natural Healing Therapies combine with a rich daily activity schedule and personalized support. Nourishing food, including an Ayurvedic specialty restaurant; therapies, including acupuncture, reflexology, and natural alignment; and a kind-hearted team complete the retreat. Unlike anywhere else, the magic lies in the way these elements are fused together to best benefit guests, based on their current state of mind and body, and personal goals for the stay.

“From the moment you arrive, when your forehead is dotted with crimson, and you don your loose-fitting kurta pajamas, to the moment you leave, and your wrist is tied with a red-string blessing, this soothing space serves as a leveler, where you can come as you are and connect to each other and nature without hindrance,” says General Manager Jaspreet Singh. “Even if you are a regular retreat-goer, everyone is unique; therefore, Six Senses Vana approaches your health and wellness in a way that’s unique to you.”

The Foundation

There is no one common objective, and retreats will vary depending on the length of stay, how deep guests wish to go, and the level of independence or support they feel they need. Every stay includes full-board accommodation and personalized nutrition, daily retreat activities, wellness consultation and screening, and attire to wear.

Elevating the Experience

Guests can boost the impact with optional extras such as Subtle Energies treatments, acupuncture, reflexology, realignment, or a pampering mani-pedi.

Adding Intention

There’s also the option to tailor the itinerary by choosing a program based on a specific wellness intention, with diagnostics and targeted guidance from the experts:

• Sleep: Tracking sleep patterns and helping guests to reset through treatments and therapies that will include yoga Nidra, holistic massages, night-time soporific drinks, and more.

• Detox: With a curated meal plan, Ayurvedic treatments, therapies to slow the fight/flight response,

and digital detox, energy levels will reset, bringing newfound clarity.

• Weight management: A mindset reset helping guests achieve gradual weight loss, or gain, through fitness activities, stimulating body treatments, meditation, biohacking, and a personalized meal plan.

• Yoga: For beginners and improvers in the motherland of mantras, delivered by a unique team of instructors, with private sessions, guided meditation, and breathwork with signature massages and energy treatments.

• Ayurveda: Treatments are delivered by doctors and therapists to heal imbalances in the body’s doshas.

• Tibetan Medicine: Six Senses Vana is one of the few places in the world where Sowa Rigpa is formally offered in its complete avatar

By introducing high tech to the high touch retreat journey at Six Senses Vana, guests will relieve common issues like back pain and inflammation and enjoy a kick start to their healing process. Compression therapy, heated back belts, and massage percussion devices will be available on arrival to take the edge off the long journey. The wellness screening measures 40 biomarkers and, when coupled with the doctor’s consultation, adds science to ancient wisdom. Guests can also enjoy multi-sensory treatments as they float in the warmth of the Watsu pool or meditate to Raag therapy, where the tranquil, hypnotic sounds of the flute bring out positive emotions.

Six Senses Signature Experiences

Close to Rishikesh, the birthplace of yoga, and north of Dehradun on the approach to the Himalayas, loyal guests have enjoyed Vana as a sanctuary for rebalancing, healing, and learning since it first opened in January 2014. The original intention, along with the existing team, remains mostly unchanged under the Six Senses brand. The ownership of Six Senses also remains with Veer Singh Ji. His deep interest in and respect for sustainable farming, traditional wisdom, and nature will continue to be nurtured.

What changes is the brand’s vision to deepen and strengthen the current offering, complement it with signature experiences it has successfully tried and tested around the world, and bring it to a broader global audience. In addition to the above programs, guests can get creative at the Alchemy Bar to make their own spa products in accordance with their dosha type. For the first time, there will also be activities aimed at children aged six and above to learn and thrive with Grow With Six Senses. Introduced later in 2023, this program will present learning opportunities that help children navigate and derive meaning from their natural surroundings through art, music, movement, storytelling, and newly built interactive spaces.

As a social and gathering space, the bar will serve healthy drinks, shrubs, and tonics. Along with a lifestyle concept store for sustainable fashion and spa products, there will also be a Cinema Paradiso and courts for various ball games. Arts, music, exhibitions, and performances will also add to the rich cultural programming.

A Happy New Year

As the New Year begins, Six Senses Vana looks forward to welcoming guests with hope, excitement, and the same warmth and affection that they have always enjoyed. Whether guests come alone or with friends or loved ones, the communal dining theme in Salana, and several daily group activities, including hikes and excursions, facilitate meaningful connections with a whole new family.

About Six Senses Vana

Six Senses Vana is named after the sal forest it takes refuge in. As the first Six Senses dedicated wellness retreat, it offers health and healing in the Himalayan foothills of India, just outside Dehradun. Ayurveda, Yoga, Tibetan Medicine, and Natural Healing Therapies combine with a rich daily activity schedule, deep commitment, and personalized support.

The magic lies in the way these elements are fused together to best benefit guests, based on their current state of mind and body, and personal goals for the stay. Nourishing food, experiences for all the senses, and a kind-hearted team complete the retreat.

About Six Senses
Six Senses operates 20 hotels and resorts in 17 countries and has signed a further 34 properties into the development pipeline. Part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, Six Senses serves as a changemaker and maintains a leadership commitment to community, sustainability, emotional hospitality, wellness, and crafted experiences, infused with a touch of quirkiness. Whether an exquisite island resort, mountain retreat, or urban hotel, the vision remains the same: to reawaken people’s senses, so they feel the purpose behind their travels and ultimately reconnect with themselves, others, and the world around them.

Six Senses Residences offers all the unique amenities of a resort life community while retaining the privacy and personal touches of a beautifully appointed private villa or apartment. Each is an appreciating long-term investment to be cherished for generations to come with immediate benefits and exclusive status at other resorts worldwide.

Six Senses Spas guides guests on their personal path to well-being in all resorts as well as a handful of standalone spas. The high-tech and high-touch approach goes beyond ordinary beauty treatments to offer holistic wellness, integrative medicine, and longevity.

Figures as at September 30, 2022

The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur celebrates 25 years with new Premier Rooms with Private Gardens

Jaipur, January 2023 This month, The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur celebrates 25 years of luxury Oberoi hospitality in the Pink City. To commemorate this milestone, it also proudly announces a new accommodation category: Premier Rooms with Private Garden. Now guests can enjoy not only the resort’s 32 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, but also their own private garden space to relax or dine al fresco.

The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur presents a palatial fort setting of traditional domed pink architecture, dramatic flaming torches and tranquil reflection pools. Its spacious grounds are dotted with clusters of accommodation that allow for maximum privacy. Each room or villa is luxuriously furnished with a four-poster bed, features a sunken marble bathtub and is afforded round-the-clock service. Inspired by the majestic caravans that crossed the desert in bygone times are the Luxury tents that feature a king size bed, teak wooden floors and bathrooms with a freestanding bathtub.

At the resort’s signature fine dining venues: The Surya Mahal or the Sun Palace, guests can relish authentic international cuisines with an Oberoi signature. Italian, Mediterranean, and Thai classics feature alongside seasonal Rajasthani specialties that are made with ingredients from the resort’s kitchen garden. The Raj Mahal is a specialty Indian restaurant that offers dishes from the remote corners of India. The restaurant spans a grand indoor dining hall and an outdoor dining area with sandstone feature fireplaces and a tree-fringed courtyard. At the Rajwada Library Bar, fine wines, classic cocktails and single malts can be enjoyed with a game of backgammon by the fireside. The bar also hosts bi-weekly, interactive history sessions under the noble gaze of ancient Maharajas captured in lithographs on the walls.

The Oberoi Rajvilas also offers specially curated experiences. From private dining to cultural activities, personalised spa therapies and more. Romantics can renew their vows in a full-day experience for bride and groom.

Ecstatic to celebrate the 25th anniversary of The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur Mr. Vishal Virmani, General Manager says, “We constantly endeavour to offer personalised experiences to all our guests and make their time with us memorable. As The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur celebrates its silver jubilee, we look forward to offering another 25 years of unparalleled luxury, unforgettable hospitality and ever more beautiful memories.”

 What makes every stay at Oberoi Hotels & Resorts truly exceptional is not simply the exquisite accommodation, the decadent dining options or the authentic cultural activities, but the personalised touches, warm hospitality and painstaking care taken to deliver the most unforgettable experience.

About Oberoi Hotels & Resorts

Oberoi Hotels & Resorts is founded on the belief that the guest is everything. This philosophy is evident in our people and manifested most visibly in the sincere personal care and attention that is afforded to every guest.

While it is true that Oberoi's exceptional properties, accommodations and facilities contribute greatly to the esteem in which we are held, we measure our success by the value of the human interaction practiced by our people and deeply felt by our guests.

Celebrating the Bounty of the season at Food Exchange!@Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre

The harvest season is a time to pause and show our gratitude to mother nature. Come and celebrate the bounty of the season with your family and friends and soak in an abundance of flavors. A delicious spread that includes regional specialties from Tamil Nadu, Punjab,  Andhra Pradesh & Telangana is specially curated for the Grand Brunch at the Food Exchange. 

Where: Food Exchange at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Hyderabad, Telangana.

When: 15th January, Time: 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM

For Reservations, call: +91 9642326162

Lollapalooza India paves the way for music festivals to walk the talk on sustainability and environmental-friendly measures

Lollapalooza India paves the way for music festivals to walk the talk on sustainability and environmental-friendly measures with #LollaForChange right from set-up until showtime

National, January 2023: Global music phenomenon Lollapalooza is all set to breach a new frontier in the eighth destination of the festival in India marking its inaugural, first-ever edition in Asia. With this world-class experience that’s never been seen before in the subcontinent, Lollapalooza brings its multi-genre music experience along with its brand of unique, diverse, and exciting flavors from the world of music to Indian shores in a two-day musical extravaganza at Mahalaxmi Race Course, in the heart of Mumbai on January 28th-29th, 2023.

With less than 1 month to go for the world’s most diverse music festival to set foot in the country, Lollapalooza India is all set to lead the charge on sustainability and environmental-friendly measures through #LollaForChange right from set-up, production all the way until showtime on January 28th-29th, 2023.

#LollaForChange will see the festival adopt several measures towards waste management, zero garbage, reducing single-use plastic, managing food wastage and increasing sustainable measures, paving the way for music festivals in the country to walk the talk on adopting environmental-friendly measures at scale towards building a climate-conscious way of experiencing live entertainment.

Here’s a look at all that is and will be underway toward a #LollaForChange at the festival’s debut edition in India:

Zero Garbage Festival

Lollapalooza India is working with leading waste management platform, Skrap, towards becoming a zero-garbage festival. Starting from the run-up to the festival including set-up from early January until the festival days of performance, Skrap will help execute a ‘zero waste to landfill’ goal for the festival reducing and eventually diverting more than 90% of the waste away from the landfills. Measures to minimise single-use plastics and non-recyclable materials are also being put in place ahead of the festival itself from production set-up onwards.

Fool-proof waste management

On-ground, waste segregation stations will be set up across the venue at Mahalaxmi Race Course, which will enable fans to segregate their waste while disposing. ‘Trash Talk’ volunteers will guide festival attendees on the waste segregation process at key waste generation areas including the Lolla Food Park. A waste sorting area is being set up at the rear of the venue, where the team will further sort waste into more than 15 categories including items such as paper, plastic, cans, glass bottles, cardboard, food scraps, compostable plates, e-waste and more. All biodegradable and recyclable waste will then be transported to composting facilities or dry waste centres for further processing.

Zero Food Waste

With festivals seeing thousands of attendees anywhere in the world, food waste has often remained a massive roadblock with large amounts going to waste. #LollaForChange will include a ‘zero food waste’ program in partnership with waste management partner Skrap where all excess, edible foods will be collected and shared ahead with local NGOs and low-income communities at the end of each of the two days of the festival. Excess foods will be collected in special containers and food-grade bags which will then be sent to food donation locations for further distribution to underprivileged beneficiaries.

Reusable Cups made from Crop Waste

Working towards reducing the number of times people change their glasses while getting their drinks, Lollapalooza India will feature reusable cups made from crop waste that are environmentally friendly across the festival. A limited discount on these quirky, designed cups will be available at all bars at the festival to encourage patrons to use these pervasively. Lollapalooza India will also see active participation in moving towards sustainable and environmental-friendly measures by participating brands who will serve drinks only in reusable glasses.

Eliminate Plastic Water Bottles

#LollaForChange will include a complete Water Execution plan towards reducing usage of plastic bottles for water consumption at the festival, not just on festival days but right from set-up of the festival in early January for the entire working crew to follow through and limit plastic usage at a larger scale. Working towards removing as much plastic for bottled water as possible by having water stations at most places in the festival (barring extremely limited areas for security measures) for both working crew and consumers will be serviced by water stations. These Water Stations will provide free water for all consumers carrying their own water bottle while those who aren’t carrying any bottles can purchase a reusable glass with a partial refund to the consumer upon return of the purchased glass. 

BookMyShow, India’s leading entertainment destination is spearheading Lollapalooza India as the promoter and co-producer for the festival’s Indian edition along with global producers, Perry Farrell and C3 Presents.