NEWS| Jit Bose - elected as a "Fellow of IIHM" and becomes member of the "IIHM International College of Distinguished Fellows"

The IIHM (International Institute of Hotel Management) International College of Distinguished Fellows conferred the Fellow of IIHM to 28 global hospitality leaders for their exemplary contribution to their industry at a glitzy virtual event. Streamed over Zoom and YouTube on January 12, the convocation ceremony had Suborno Bose, CEO, International Institute of Hotel Management & CEO, International Hospitality Council, and Prof David Foskett, MBE, chairman - International Hospitality Council, London, coming together to confer the fellowship. 

The IIHM International College of Distinguished Fellows had elected 56 dedicated professionals to become Fellows of IIHM. All of them have greatly contributed to the international hospitality industry in one way or another. The list of distinguished industry stalwarts includes Ms. Camelia Punjabi ( Group Director – Masala World) , Mr. Vijay Thacker – Managing Director – HTL Howarth), Chef. Lepinoy Sebastien (3 Michelin Star Chef Les Amis Restaurant Singapore) to name a few.  

Speaking about the recognition Mr. Jit Bose, Area Director South India, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Director of Sales & Marketing Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park  said “ I look forward to working with IIHM towards contributing to the field of Hospitality Education & continue to excite people to join our industry which has so much to offer” 

Profile : 

Jit Bose is the Area Director of Sales & Marketing South India at InterContinental Hotels Group (South West Asia Region). He is currently based at Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park. Jit has been with the hospitality industry for over two decades and has been with IHG Hotels & Resorts for the last four and a half years. He strongly believes that success comes from building strong teams.  

A strategic, outgoing, and performance-driven leader who provides exceptional leadership to his team resulting in commercial success. He has led many key projects towards successful improvements in customer experience, revenue maximization, market development & executed a number of highly successful campaigns. Proven experience in building highly successful and motivated teams. Recognized for strong business acumen & strategy implementation. Transformed many underperforming Hotels to commercial success through short-term tactical activities and building a long-term vision.

  

Jit is an alumnus of Calcutta University and has done his Post Graduation in Marketing & attended various workshops and Development Programmes conducted by Cornell University.   

He has vast experience in Commercial Strategy, Revenue Management with leading brands like Taj, Hyatt, Leela Palaces Hotels & Resorts, Shangri-La Hotels, Ritz Carlton International & IHG Hotels & Resorts. He has held various senior management positions in his previous assignments In India and Indonesia. His expertise also lies in Pre openings, brand conversions, digital marketing, content creation, and online marketing.  

He has successfully launched the hybrid weddings campaign for his hotel. This innovative product has been a huge commercial success & has generated a lot of media attention in India and abroad. He enjoys training and mentoring. Few of his mentees have already become successful commercial leaders. He is often invited by Hotel schools to share with the students his inspiring journey in Sales & Marketing.   

Jit was awarded "Commercial Leader of the Year in 2019 - India Middle East & Africa Region " by IHG Hotels & Resorts. Won the “ Man of Excellence Award ( Hospitality Industry )– 2021 from Indian Achievers Forum.  

An avid traveler he has visited 24 countries and loves photography. music and exploring new cultures and cuisines.    

AWARD | Neha Kapoor wins Front Office Manager of the Year Award

Nine months after joining Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity as an Assistant Front Office Manager, Neha Kapoor was promoted to Front Office Manager. When the dual-property’s Rooms Division Managers (RDM) left, she took charge of the front office
operations for the combined 670 rooms.

Three years down the line, Kapoor has learnt a lot whilst handling two different hotel brands and leveraged this learning to increase overall revenue, ADR, guest satisfaction score and employee satisfaction score.

“While challenging initially, this on-the-job learning made me stronger and helped in my personal growth as well,” she emphasised.

The experience placed her in good stead when the pandemic struck. Despite the downturn faced by the entire industry, she stated that the hotels registered 174% YoY growth in upselling revenue and 5% YoY increase in room profitability in 2021 as compared to the year.

Award | Vakkaru Maldives Voted World’s Leading Luxury Honeymoon Resort at World Travel Awards 2021

Vakkaru Maldives Voted World’s Leading Luxury Honeymoon Resort at World Travel Awards 2021

Vakkaru Maldives retained its title as the World’s Leading Luxury Honeymoon Resort at the 28th World Travel Awards 2021. It first won the accolade in 2020. The latest award is the fifth one it has won this year.  

The 28th annual awards follow a year-long search for the world’s top travel, tourism and hospitality brands. Votes for the awards are cast by travel industry professionals and the public and the coveted World winners represent the absolute best in global travel.   

Since opening its door in December 2017, Vakkaru Maldives has created memorable luxury experiences for travellers seeking the ultimate beach escape. Fringed by powder-soft white sand that gives away to a turquoise lagoon and deep blue holes, the intimate hideaway with luxurious accommodation and a multitude of facilities and experiences makes for a spectacular setting for a destination wedding, a renewal of vows, or a honeymoon hideaway.  

Iain McCormack, General Manager, Vakkaru Maldives, said: “We are delighted with this latest accolade. It is a validation of our dedication to creating exceptional stay experiences combined with our signature hospitality for our guests. Couples, in particular, are always looking for something that sparks the imagination and occasions to reconnect and discover themselves. We look forward to being the catalyst for couples to connect and make precious memories together.”  

With its remote location and stunning backdrop of 50 Shades of Blue seascapes, Vakkaru is perfect for taking a break for romance. Hold hands while strolling along pristine white sands. Sip Champagne and watch the sun rays paint the turquoise lagoon. Enjoy an intimate gourmet dinner or a castaway picnic on a private sandbank. Team up to take on the resort tennis pro on the iconic cobalt-blue courts. Sail around Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, on a luxury yacht. Pamper body, mind, and soul at the luxurious overwater Merana Spa. And these are just a few experiences for couples to indulge in.

AWARD | Chef Jerson Fernandes has been awarded with the Executive Chef of the Year Award at the Hotelier India Awards 2021

The Executive Chef  of the Year awards represent the magnum opus of fine dining interactive  experiences and is the most challenging to achieve, with the majority of the culinarians having to consistently establish innovative ways of the art and science of cooking.  

Having embraced opportunities spanning the Accor, P&O cruises, Taj Hotels, Berggruen (Keys), Ritz Carlton- Marriott Hotels,  the 13 years in the world of tradition, history and creativity in cuisines  has earned Chef Jerson  the  reputation of transforming and delivering  exceptional guest experiences. Chef Jerson Fernandes,  fondly known as CJ has been conferred with the Executive Chef of the Year Award at the Hotelier India Awards 2021 in the Upscale to Mid-Market segment (Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach), for his key role in a better food future. 

The jubilant Jerson says, “Awards and Honours are recognition of the notable  efforts and the impacts that professionals have on our sectors, both, for the present and the future. In our day, more than ever it is important to reward and inspire innovation and inventiveness, as we, the community, work together with resilience and ensure that inspiring narratives and stories are shared, as trailblazers.”

Chef Jerson’s contribution of integrating the contemporary and progressive  with the classic is the epitome of hours of experimentation and purpose.  He has been heralded for his culinary prowess by the Honourable Mayor of Mumbai, Kishori Pednekar  on 27th December 2021. The appreciation and recognition aims not only to honour the high standards of professionalism but serves to create opportunities for aspiring professionals to lead as vision builders, catalysts for change, influencers and rising achievers. He extends his sincere gratitude to the management of Accor and Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach for providing him with an opportunity and platform to showcase his skills and talent.

Food is an experience, and what is treasured and cherished is more than a menu, and the restaurant, the ambience and quality produce, but the demonstration and marvel  of the integrity and reflection of the locale to create the spectacular. Chef Jerson’s immediate endeavor is to render  these events as the focal point of signature performances, and unify India’s diverse culinary landscape with the intangible aspects of culture and heritage through his food plating’s at the various restaurants of Novotel Juhu where he believes in serving all his guests a dining experience of a lifetime, rather than just mere great food.

Being honoured and humbled by the Distinguished Award, I have and am  continually  rewarded with  leaders, employers, front-runners, colleagues, mentors, administrators and support staff who assist me in spearheading projects ranging from preserving traditions, to balancing health and sustainable food menus, championing under-represented menus through photography, and chronicling culinary memoirs. 

Reflecting on the memorable journey, the award is monumental in further  exploring my career path, aligning my future actions through a  collaborative transformation in 2022, where tenacity  and originality  will shape the future of gastronomy. 

The General Manager of Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, Gorav Arora said that he is immensely honored to have Chef Jerson create a legacy based on his strong devotion and commitment to food. “My respect and admiration for the brands culinary offerings and beverage concepts has enthused me to bring in a new wave of verve and vigor to the iconic neighborhood of Juhu and to the city of Mumbai”.

NEWS | Atlantis, The Palm and Moët & Chandon break Guinness World Record

Atlantis, The Palm and Moët & Chandon break Guinness World Record

Atlantis, The Palm and Moët & Chandon broke the Guinness World Record title for the world’s largest drinking glass pyramid.

Officially verified on the night by Guinness World Record, guests watched as 54,740 glass coupes towering over 8.23 meters high were filled from a luminescent bottle of Moët & Chandon. Beating the previous Guinness World Records title of 50,116 glasses set in Madrid in 2017, a team of six from Dutch company Luuk Broos Events spent five days and over 55 man-hours meticulously stacking the tower of coupes ahead of the grand unveiling.

The record-breaking attempt was conceived as part of Moët & Chandon’s Effervescence celebrations, a series of soirées set to pop up in over 20 cities, including London, Hong Kong, Toronto, Madrid, Moscow, Johannesburg, and Mexico City throughout 2021/22.

Following the successful event, Timothy Kelly, executive vice president and managing director, Atlantis Resorts and Residences said: “Following what has been a challenging year for us all, it’s a pleasure to stand here today toasting to the dawn of 2022. Tonight, we join our valued partner and fellow masters of celebration, Moët & Chandon, in creating a moment in history, born from our mutual vision of celebrating togetherness. The champagne tower is traditionally a beacon of greatness and generosity, and we’d like to toast to a new year filled with both in abundance.”

Whilst Moët & Chandon did not invent the champagne pyramid, it’s a symbol that the brand has appropriated since the late 1950s with the house perfecting the art of creating ever-taller champagne pyramids, breaking records in the process.

Laurent Dominguez, general manager, Moët Hennessy Middle-East, said: “A symbol of celebration and generosity, Champagne Pyramids are deeply-rooted in Maison history and DNA. In 1983, to mark its 240th anniversary, Moët & Chandon established the first world record for the highest champagne pyramid with 2,757 crystal glasses. Almost 40 years later and alongside our valued partner and iconic destination resort, Atlantis, The Palm, we are thrilled to perpetuate this heritage and create a new milestone with this daring attempt.”

AWARD | JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar wins Best Wedding Venue in India Gold At the Wedding Sutra Influencer Awards 2021

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar wins Best Wedding Venue in India Gold 

At the Wedding Sutra Influencer Awards 2021

Mumbai, December 2021: JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar hosted the prestigious Wedding Sutra Influencer Awards 2021 - Venues Edition, attended by the crème de la crème of the Wedding Industry, Mumbai Society, Luxury Mavens & Influencers and Top Hoteliers.

The stunning celebration co-hosted by Mr. Kunal Chauhan, General Manager of JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar and Mr Parthip Thyagarajan, CEO WeddingSutra.com on the 21st of December honored the innovation, quick adaptation, and perseverance of hotels hosting big and small weddings and fabulous social & wedding venues! 

The team at JW Sahar was honored to be bestowed with the award for the Best Wedding Venue in India – Gold. 

The event witnessed an extravagant culinary showcase featuring global delicacies orchestrated by our expert team amidst lush décor at the Gulmohar Lawns. Chef Dane Fernandes the newly appointed executive chef and his team curated a stunning Strawberry Studio with the season’s special decadent desserts such as Baked Cheese Cake, Strawberry Pectin Jelly, Strawberry Caramel Mille Feuille, Honey Balsamic Macerated Strawberry Skewers, Chocolate Dip Strawberries, Strawberry Pavlova and much more.

On this occasion Mr Kunal Chauhan, General Manager JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar says “Wedding Sutra Awards are one of the most prestigious awards in the wedding industry. It is a proud moment for us to be hosting this exceptional evening recognizing the best talent in the industry and we are honored to receive the award for the best wedding venue in India. It will be our endeavor to continue creating memorable and magical weddings.”

Present at the elegant celebration were Madhoo, renowned Bollywood actress, music director Anu Malik and his daughter Ada Malik, actresses Tanisha Mukherji, Laila and Sundari Khan, a special performance by singer Shweta Shetty, designer Nachiket Barve, Yash Dongre - Head of Business at House of Anita Dongre, business scion and entrepreneur Samarth Bajaj, hotelier/ entrepreneur Jimmy Mistry, ace makeup artist Kajol R Paswann and well-known bollywood stylist Eesha Amin.

About JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar offers effortless elegance and sophistication. Just a short drive from Mumbai's international and domestic airports, the luxury hotel makes for an ideal destination for business and stay. Our 5-star hotel accommodation features 588 spacious rooms with pillow top beds, marble bathrooms and high-speed Wi-Fi, as well as generous work desks and 24-hour room service. Our Hotel’s dining options reflect the city’s rich culture and culinary tradition. Romano’s, JW Café, JW Lounge and JW Baking Co. showcase the gastronomic prowess of the talent we have at JW Sahar.  Our 29,837 sq.ft. of indoor conventional and meeting spaces are a blend of beauty, authentic hospitality and world-class audio visual services. Spa By JW, the first of its kind in Asia Pacific, extends its host of therapies so one can experience holistic wellness. Visit us online on www.jw mumbai.com. For social media updates, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter on @JWSahar. For more information, follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube, Google Plus. 

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of roughly 7,900 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 138 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram

Award | Hurawalhi Wins Prestigious Accolades at Hotel Travel Awards 2021

Hurawalhi Wins Prestigious Accolades at Hotel Travel Awards 2021

Hurawalhi Maldives has been announced as the winner of multiple prestigious Hotel Travel Awards 2021, bringing a fantastic end to the year! 

The Hotel Travel Awards recognizes and rewards hotels worldwide based on the exceptional service and facilities they provide to their guests. Their world-class inspectors were thrilled with the exceptional facilities and outstanding service they experienced while inspecting our resort and we couldn’t be more proud. Awards such as these are only possible due to the dedicated and professional team we have here at Hurawalhi and a huge thank you goes to each and every one of them. 

Hurawalhi Maldives received the following awards: 

WINNER: FINEST LUXURY SUSTAINABLE HOTEL RESORT WORLDWIDE – ‘Luxury Treading Lightly’ ethos underpins its environmental efforts. 

WINNER: BEST GENERAL MANAGER WORLDWIDE – Brad Calder has been at the helm of Hurawalhi, and neighboring Kudadoo Maldives Private Island by Hurawalhi since 2017. 

WINNER: FINEST LUXURY UNDERWATER RESTAURANT WORLDWIDE – 5.8 Undersea Restaurant has scooped many accolades and the exquisite dining experiences that its guests enjoy, are cited as holiday highlights never to be forgotten. 

Kerten Hospitality awarded 2021 Most Innovative Lifestyle Hospitality Group - Middle East

Kerten Hospitality awarded 2021 Most Innovative Lifestyle Hospitality Group - Middle East

A global win for Sustainability, Innovation, and Excellence

Riyadh: December 2021: Leading the hospitality industry in the Middle East region, Kerten Hospitality, a mixed-use lifestyle operator, has been awarded a global recognition for its commitment to Innovation, Sustainability and Service excellence in lifestyle hospitality. UK’s Global Brands Magazine, one of the largest brand publications in the world, has been awarded the organization Most Innovative Lifestyle Hospitality Group – Middle East 2021. This annual accolade is given to the Group for standing out among the industry leaders demonstrating exceptional service and unique vision.

In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kerten Hospitality has recently opened its lifestyle destination in Jeddah that connects people and brings a new edge to the city’s trendy area. The House Hotel Jeddah CityYard – is the place to rest, dine and socialize in the modern hotel with 114 room keys, 14 hand-picked dining options that dazzle palates, and a picturesque panoramic rooftop view from the pool that has quickly turned into the go-to destination for live music and entertainment. The House has become a home to famous local and international visitors, all positively surprised to find such a transformative experience in Saudi Arabia today. This is one of Kerten Hospitality’s mixed-use projects and a pipeline of 6 openings in 2022, a series of announcements about new curated projects along with an entry into new geographies with a growing team of disruptive professionals.  

Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality said: “We are thrilled to have been recognized as the leading lifestyle hospitality player in the region we have entered only 6 years ago. Today, we are building more than 35 sustainable lifestyle destinations globally with a focus on the local community, entrepreneurship, empowerment and soft-touch hospitality focused on ESG, entertainment, connecting local and international travelers, for our community of owners who are well established, well-traveled, successful business people, and whom by taking notice of the changing world want to be part of that change, with high yield long-term investments that become the talk of the town.”

Knippenberg added, “Recently, we have signed up to enter new markets such as the UAE, Italy and Morocco. Egypt, Kuwait, Georgia and the UAE, are the next destinations set to open in 2022, with a pipeline supporting the opening of minimum 10 projects in 2023! For our lifestyle footprint growth, we are thankful to our visionary owners who have welcomed us as their extended hand and with whom we would like to share this global win.”

About Kerten Hospitality’s win, the Global Brand Magazine asserted: “Your company was selected from a very competitive group of entrants, all of whom demonstrated unique and exceptional service delivery towards evolving Hospitality sectors. Kerten Hospitality was awarded this honour for its commitment to Innovation, Sustainability and Service Excellence.”

The Global Brand Awards were established with the aim of honouring excellence in performance and rewarding Companies across different sectors.

The Thinnai Organic Farm Hotel wins the the sustainability award 2021

The Thinnai Organic Farm Hotel Small and Medium Enterprise category from the Sustainable Supply Chains initiative at “Sustainability Awards 2021” held during the ‘Top German Brands in Sri Lanka’ event organized by Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka - AHK Sri Lanka

The award winners were selected after evaluating the participants of the Sustainable Supply Chains and Sustainable Tourism Initiatives. The evaluation criteria included

1. Holistic approach to sustainability

2. Visionary leadership

3. Innovative capability and

4. Resistance to external factors (ie. Pandemic) when implementing sustainability practices.

“Our industry was hit very hard in 2020. Financial commitments for social engagement were not possible, therefore, we challenged ourselves differently”, Said Janitha C. Madawala, The Cluster General Manager, The Thinnai Group of Hotels

D&I Champion & Company of the Year - Kannan Aiyer & Soho House Mumbai

What an amazing journey it has been this year for Soho House. The year is certainly closing on a high note for them. Soho House always had creativity as it's soul. Started in 1995 as a private members club for the creative fraternity, diversity & inclusion was always at the core.

Soho House Mumbai decided to take this up a notch higher this year, introducing the following policies:

1. House to Home – 2 days no questions asked Menstrual Leave

2. Parental Leave – 90 days paid holiday for all single/same sex parents if they choose to

adopt or go through assisted reproduction.

3. Paternity Leave – Increase from 10 days to 30 days for all male employees

4. Same sex partners covered in our health insurance

5. Transgender covered as a specific gender in our health insurance

6. Gender Re-assignment surgery is now a part of our health insurance program

Apart from this they dedicatedly started focussing on diverse group hiring;

• Yash Charitable Trust (YCT): They are our Neuro Diverse community partners. Saurabh Kambli who joined us as an in intern just before the 1 st lockdown completed his training through both the lockdowns and has now gained a full time employment with us.

• Samavesha Chamber of Commerce: They are our partners for LGBTQIA+ hiring.

• Faujnet: Our partners for Military Veterans hirings

• Zetta Women: Our partners for hiring of women with career breaks/loss of jobs etc.

Noteworthy initiatives:

• Rev it up with Reuben: A monthly chat show run by Pastry Chef – Reuben Moraes. With this the aim is to make learning about D&I a fun experience.

• Sustainability and D&aI: Partnering with Dr. Binish Desai, also known as India’s Recycle Man to take up the sustainability initiatives a notch higher. The Coffee waste (on an avg amounts to 60 kgs per week) is being recycled into crockery, jewellery, decorative products etc. and the single use discarded masks are being converted into bricks which are used to build toilets and homes in rural areas.

Soho House Mumbai is a truly diverse, inclusive, safe & equitable space for every employee, member & guest. Transformance Group awarded the following to SOHO House Mumbai:

Individual Awards:

1. D&I Champion of the Year – Kannan Aiyer

2. HR Policy of the Year – Kannan Aiyer

Organizational Awards:

1. D&I Company of Year

2. HR Team of the Year

Kamat Hotels (India) bestowed with Maharashtra State Best Employer Brand Award 2021

Kamat Hotels (India) bestowed with Maharashtra State Best Employer Brand Award 2021

Kamat Hotels (India) Ltd. has been conferred with Maharashtra state best employer brand award 2021. The award was hosted by the reputed Employer Branding Institute World HRD Congress and Stars of the Industry Group. KHIL received the award in regards to the covid challenges faced by one of the most worst affected industries and the critical teamwork by the staff to take care of covid patients, foreign returning Indian guests and staff well-being challenges alike.

Intensely researched by Dr. R. L. Bhatia, Founder of World CSR Day, and chaired and headed by Dr. Indira Parikh Ex-Dean of Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad this award recognizes organizations that have used marketing communications effectively in attracting talent, retaining talent, developing talent, and in the retention policy.

The award was received by Varun Sahani, Vice President Operations, Kamat Hotels who said "What makes Kamats A great place to work is its our people cultures that has been imbibed over the last 75 years of our existence by the Late Shri Venkatesh Kamath and now by Dr Vithal Kamat. We invest in one's capability so that they can make the most of their career whether as part of us or when they branch outwards. Creating entrepreneur-thinking while keeping to our warm Indian Traditional Hospitality. During the lockdown, we rolled out various initiatives for our employees to protect them and their families. Connect with the people, Trust - Team Building, Appreciation, Expressing gratitude to employees boosts morale and help them endure difficult times.

Kamat Hotels (India) Ltd. (KHIL) is a leading Indian Hospitality player in India owning the Brand Orchid know to be Asia’s pioneering chain of environmentally sensitive hotels and resort and starting Asia’s First 5 Star Ecotel, The Orchid – Mumbai. Spread across multi states they also own a Heritage Collection of Fort JadhavGadh, Pune, Mahodadhi Palace, Puri and Lotus Eco Resorts.

Award | 9 Fern Resorts win prestigious Hospitality India Travel Awards 2021!

9 Fern Resorts win prestigious Hospitality India Travel Awards 2021!

The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain won big at the Hospitality India Travel Awards with nine of its resorts grabbing the awards at a glittering ceremony held in New Delhi on 12th November 2021. Besides seven others from the Fern family were awarded for outstanding performances in the fields of Sales & Marketing, Business Development, F&B and Operations.

The awards were presented by the Chief Guests, Mr Prem Bahadur Ale, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Government of Nepal, Mr Vijay Goel, Member of Parliament-Rajya Sabha, and others.

Congratulating the winners, Noshir A Marfatia, senior vice president, sales and marketing said, “It is a matter of great pride for us that so many resorts and individuals achieved recognition. The entire team has shown great commitment to accomplish this.”   

Following nine properties were awarded

1. Mr Tushar Mali, General Manager - The Fern Leo Resort & Club, Junagadh for The Best Luxury Resort & Club in Gujarat

2. Mr Nikhil Singh Rawat, Operations Manager - The Fern Sattva Resort, Dwarka for The Best Coastal Temple Town Resort in Gujarat

3. Mr Ranjeet Kumar, Operations Manager - The Fern Gir Forest Resort, Sasan Gir for The Best Jungle Safari Resort in Gujarat

4. Mr Brajesh Soni, Operations Manager - The Fern Sattva Resort, Polo Forest for The Best Nature-Friendly Resort in Gujarat

5. Mr Gurpreet Singh Kandhari, Operations Manager - The Fern Seaside Luxurious Tent Resort, Daman for The Best Luxury Tent Resort in Daman & Diu

6. Mr Ramesh Kumar Gupta, General Manager - The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel, Lonavala for The Best Luxury Hillside Resort in Maharashtra

7. Mr Dinesh Kumar Yadav, General Manager - The Fern Samali Resort, Dapoli for The Best Leisure Resort in Ratnagiri

8. Mr Arindam Bahel, General Manager - The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie for The Best Hill Resort in Uttarakhand

9. Mr Amit Mishra, General Manager - The Fern Denzong Hotel & Spa, Gangtok for The Best Hotel in Sikkim

The Fern Hotels & Resorts is India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain and amongst the fastest growing hotel brands in India, with 84 hotels & resorts currently operational under management or opening shortly across 69 locations in India and internationally, under The Fern, The Fern Residency, The Zinc by The Fern and Beacon Hotels brands, with 15 hotels opened during the pandemic lockdowns of 2020 & 2021. The company is a part of CG Corp Global, a multi-dimensional Nepalese conglomerate.

Award | Uttarakhand gets awards in three categories in tourism sec

Proving its excellence in tourism in the country, Uttarakhand has won prestigious national level awards in three categories. Among them, the state has won the Best Wildlife Destination, Best Adventure Destination and Best Spiritual Destination Award. The Union Tourism Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy presented the awards to The Minister of Tourism, Shri Satpal Maharaj.

India's finest tourist destinations were given awards in 9 separate categories. Out of these, Uttarakhand has won three awards. Jim Corbett National Park in the state has been declared as the Best Wildlife Destination, Rishikesh as The Best Adventure Destination and Kedarnath as the Best Spiritual Destination.

Adding more in this Union Tourism Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy said, "Under the guidance of  our Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, major initiatives are being taken to promote domestic tourism and promoting India internationally."

The India Today Tourism Survey and Awards 2021 were distributed in New Delhi on Friday. After receiving the award, The Tourism Minister Shri Satpal Maharaj said, "Since Corona, Uttarakhand has emerged as a major hub in tourism, wellness tourism and AYUSH. Uttarakhand has been the destination of choice for its natural beauty.

It has been continuously attracting tourists from abroad. We have immense potential for adventure tourism in the state, and we are now a prominent destination for adventure seekers. Keeping this in mind, we are also constantly working to promote adventure sports. While Jim Corbett National Park is a perfect destination for wildlife lovers as well as nature lovers.

Uttarakhand's prestige has increased manifold with these three awards. Our government is committed to promoting tourism in Uttarakhand in an environment friendly manner and development of local communities. We are humbled to receive this honour.“

The tourism minister's aim has also been to promote the alternative pilgrimage sites of the four dhams as winter chardham.

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NEWS | The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands Debuts Behind the Bar Program Featuring Guest Bartenders from World’s 50 Best Bars

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is debuting a new guest bartending series aptly titled Behind the Bar. This program will feature some of the top bartenders and bring several of the World’s 50 Best Bars to Fari Islands, and we are hoping it might be of interest to your readers.  

Kicking off the program on November 3-4, 2021 is Little Red Door. The confidential den tucked in the discreet rue Charlot is known as a Parisian institution in the cocktail arts since 2012. Ranked in the very selective list of the 50 Best Bars for seven years, it is continually recognized for its tailored team of bartenders who are able to imagine clever drinks according to the mood and preferences of the clients, and also distinguishes itself by the creativity of its breaking codes and pushing senses menus. Guests of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands can join the guest mixologists at Eau Bar for an extraordinary cocktail experience or take part in the Cocktail Lab hosted by Little Red Door, that will dive into the art of cocktail conception and the connection the colors have in creating different sensations.  

The Behind the Bar program will be continuing through 2022 and has confirmed the following guest bartenders:  

∙ Three Sheets – November 29-30, 2021  

o Three Sheets is an award-winning cocktail bar opened by Max and Noel Venning in 2016. Known for being able to be ordered by strength, each section of their menu – be it One, Two or Three Sheets – offers a minimalist presentation and explosion of flavors. Noel Venning, Head Bartender and Owner of Three Sheets, will take over Eau Bar for two nights and offer a Cocktail Lab for all to discover the secrets behind this renowned cocktail bar.  

∙ Tjoget– December 18-19, 2021  

A perfectly balanced neighborhood bar, where drinks are inspired by the flavors and fragrances of Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East. Conceived and managed by two bartenders, Andreas Bergman and Joel Söderbäck, the cocktail bar has always been the beating heart of Tjoget.

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Award | Vakkaru Maldives Scoops Three Prestigious Awards at the 2021 World Travel Awards

Vakkaru Maldives Scoops Three Prestigious Awards at the 2021 World Travel Awards

Vakkaru Maldives ends another year on a high with multiple wins at the 28th World Travel Awards 2021. The private island sanctuary, which only opened doors in 2017, scooped three prestigious titles this year. For the second year in a row, it was crowned the Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort. Industry experts and guests also voted again for the sprawling signature four-bedroom Vakkaru Over Water Residence as the Maldives Leading Hotel Suite and the Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Suite.  

Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards acknowledges, rewards and celebrates excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. With winners in each category determined by travel and tourism industry professionals and everyday travelers, it is the ultimate stamp of industry excellence.  

These new honours validate the world-class facilities and signature hospitality that Vakkaru Maldives offers its guests and reinforce its position as one of the most exciting resorts in the Maldives and the Indian Ocean. The resort has set itself apart with innovative hospitality concepts and memorable guest experiences, such as the launch of “Vakkare” last year. This enhanced service standard focuses on providing the utmost care in all its forms, with a commitment from all members of the Vakkaru team to make a sincere and creative effort to surpass guest expectations.  

Additionally, vacationers can also enjoy a range of unparalleled experiences. These range from signature wellness treatments for the body, mind and soul in the luxurious overwater Merana spa and sunrise yoga sessions on the pristine white sand beach to private tennis lessons with some of the world’s top players and the finest gourmet experiences to be had in the Maldives. With its enviable location in Baa Atoll, named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2011, the luxury resort also offers some of the Indian Ocean’s best bluewater experiences, from scuba diving and snorkeling to watersports.  

Couples embarking on a life journey together can enjoy several exceptionally romantic experiences at this private water retreat. These include exclusive night-time use of the spa, where indulgent treatments are followed by a healthy and nutritious dinner underneath the starry skies. Or, private excursions to a nearby sandbank to enjoy Champagne and canapés as they admire another spectacular Indian Ocean sunset.  

With the double title of “Maldives Leading Hotel Suite” and “Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Suite”, the luxurious Vakkaru Over Water Residence is well suited to families or a group of friends looking to enjoy the ultimate holiday in complete privacy. Drawing on the rich traditions of Maldivian style, it is one of the largest overwater residences in the country. And located at the end of the water villa jetty, it guarantees unobstructed views of the ocean’s Fifty Shades of Blue and the spectacular sunsets. The two-storey residence, spread over 971 square meters, has its own infinity pool and comes with a dedicated chef. Inside the sprawling space are four bedrooms and perfectly fitted bathrooms with spacious tubs and private steam rooms. Outside, the vast, versatile terrace includes a dining area, multiple relaxation spaces, a private spa pavilion and a staircase that leads directly to the sea.  

Other thoughtful guest benefits include VIP passage through Malé’s Velana International Airport. In addition, the on-call team of butlers facilitate numerous in-resort and in-villa privileges on the island, from complimentary sundowners and private beach barbecues to family film nights with unlimited popcorn, candyfloss and ice cream, and celebratory afternoon teas.  

Speaking about the resort’s latest accolades, Iain McCormack, General Manager, Vakkaru Maldives, said: “This recognition for the second year in succession is a wonderful honour. These awards are a testament to the tireless efforts of all Vakkaru team members to deliver our brand of inspirational hospitality and exceptional service to every guest. There is no greater reward for us than knowing that we were able to exceed guest expectations. These important wins will encourage us to continue working with even more enthusiasm to offer our guests extraordinary and memorable experiences at our timeless sanctuary.”  

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Awards | Anantara Spa Scoops Wins at 2021 World Spa Awards

Anantara Spa Scoops Wins at 2021 World Spa Awards

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

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

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

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

Eclat Hospitality Awarded Hospitality Consultancy of the Year 2021 - India

www.eclathospitality.com

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

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

The awards won by Maldives this year includes   

- Indian Ocean's Leading Destination 2021: Maldives   

- Indian Ocean's Leading Beach Destination 2021: Maldives   

- Indian Ocean's Leading Dive Destination 2021: Maldives  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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NEWS | Carnival Corporation Named by Forbes as one of World's Best Employers

Carnival Corporation Named by Forbes as one of World's Best Employers

World's largest cruise company honored on Forbes' annual list of best global employers of 2021, based on employee rankings and public perception for key factors such as working conditions, salary, potential for growth and diversity

MIAMI, Oct.ober, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL;NYSE: CUK), the world's largest cruise company, today announced it has been named as one of the World's Best Employers of 2021 by Forbes, a leading source of business news worldwide.

Presented by Forbes and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider, the prestigious annual listing honors the best international employers from over 35 major industries, including travel and leisure. In Forbes' fifth annual survey, Carnival Corporation – whose nine popular cruise line brands include namesake Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Seabourn in the U.S., along with AIDA Cruises, Cunard, Costa Cruises, P&O Cruises UK and P&O Cruises Australia – was ranked among the best 750 employers in the world based on results and feedback from 150,000 full- and part-time workers at multinational companies and institutions from 58 countries. The full list of the World's Best Employers for 2021 is available on the Forbes website.

"We are honored to be recognized by Forbes as one of the top employers in the world, and we are extremely proud of our talented and passionate team members whose dedication and commitment is the foundation of our success," said Roger Frizzell, chief communications officer for Carnival Corporation. "We fully embrace the importance and value of providing an inclusive and supportive work environment for all of our colleagues, and operating with integrity, trust and respect for each other. We are grateful to see the hard work of our entire team lead to recognition of this magnitude."

Frizzell added: "Our ongoing focus to create one of the best places to work in the world is reflected in our highest responsibility and top priority, which is compliance, environmental protection, and the health, safety and well-being of our guests, the people in the communities we visit, and our shipboard and shoreside personnel."

The Forbes World's Best Employers list was determined through a globally administered independent survey of more than 150,000 employees in 58 countries working full- or part-time. Participants were asked to anonymously evaluate their current employer based on factors such as willingness to recommend their company to family and friends, while also providing recommendations for other employers in their industry. Respondents also ranked their satisfaction with various aspects of the overall employee experience, including working conditions, salary, potential for growth and diversity. Based on these direct and indirect employee recommendations, along with public perception scores, Forbes included only the top 750 companies out of thousands of organizations considered for the recognition.

This latest honor as a top international employer is the most recent in a series of recognitions Carnival Corporation has earned for excellence in the workplace in 2021, including a separate listing from Forbes as one of America's Best Large Employers. Earlier this year, Carnival Corporation was named a Glassdoor Employees' Choice Award Winner honoring the best 100 U.S. places to work and earned a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's 2021 Corporate Equality Index, designating the company as a Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality. Carnival Corporation was also recognized for its commitment to corporate social responsibility leadership by Newsweek on its second annual list of America's Most Responsible Companies for 2021. Most recently, the company was named as one of the Best Companies for Latinos by Latino Leaders Magazine.

The recognition for excellence in the workplace underscores Carnival Corporation's commitment to support diversity, equity and inclusion throughout its companywide operations and to provide a positive and empowering corporate culture for all its shipboard and shoreside employees. The company's success is a direct result of its employees, who represent nearly 150 countries across the globe and have helped create a collaborative and dedicated workforce committed to consistently exceeding guest expectations and providing extraordinary vacations for millions of guests around the world.

About Carnival Corporation & plc
Carnival Corporation & plc is one of the world's largest leisure travel companies with a portfolio of nine of the world's leading cruise lines sailing to all seven continents. With operations in North America, Australia, Europe and Asia, its portfolio features Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises (Australia), Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK) and Cunard.