NEWS | Kerala hotels and resorts can now operate in ‘bio-bubble’

The State Disaster Management Authority announced the move in an effort to release some of the stress in Kerala’s crucial hospitality and tourism industries

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has allowed hotels and resorts in the state to function in a ‘bio-bubble’ from August 5, 2021. Covid restrictions on events, parties, conferences, would continue. Weddings and funerals can take place with a maximum of 20 people, it added.

The move among the severe restrictions on trade and industry in the state comes as a huge relief with the latest communique also stating that accommodation facilities like hotels, resorts, would be allowed to operate in a bio-bubble model in all areas on all days of the week. While allowing it to function on all days under the ‘bio-bubble’ model, the guidelines strictly mandate such establishments to display the status of vaccination of employees and the number of customers permitted at a time.

Such establishments were only allowed persons who have taken at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine before two weeks or who are in possession of the RT-PCR negative certificate taken 72 hours before or who are in possession of the Covid-19 positive results more than a month old shall be allowed inside as workers as well as visitors.

The restrictions on indoor dining in restaurants would continue to remain suspended. However, dining would now be allowed in open areas, parking lots, with six feet distancing. Restaurants are now allowed to serve food online till 9.30 pm.

The Test Positivity Rate in Kerala was above 10 percent and half of the total Covid-19 positive cases in the country currently are reported from the state.

Award | The Brasserie restaurant at Hilton Mumbai International Airport Wins 2021 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award

The Brasserie restaurant at Hilton Mumbai International Airport Wins 2021 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 

Great diner reviews earn The Brasserie restaurant a place amongst
the top 10% of restaurants worldwide

Mumbai, Maharashtra – , 2021 – Hilton Mumbai International Airport announced today that it’s multi-cuisine restaurant ‘The Brasserie’ has been recognized as a 2021 Travellers’ Choice award winner for the Restaurant Category. 

This achievement celebrates businesses that consistently deliver fantastic experiences to travellers and diners around the globe, having earned great traveller reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months. As challenging as the past year has been, The Brasserie by Hilton Mumbai International airport stood out by continuously delighting travellers and diners alike.

“Our team is elated as The Brasserie restaurant has been awarded second year in-a-row the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, which is purely on the merit of user reviews. In this particularly challenging year, we stood out by providing great service and experiences to your guests. All credit goes to the wonderful team working always to serve the heartfelt hospitality to our guests and upholding Hilton CleanStay protocols to make our diners feel comfortable. We are truly honored that The Brasserie has been given this prestigious honor by Tripadvisor. We look forward to continued love and support.” said Mr. Brijesh Singh, F&B Manager, Hilton Mumbai International airport.

“Congratulations to all the winners of the 2021 Travellers’ Choice Awards,” said Kanika Soni, Chief Commercial Officer at Tripadvisor. “I know the past year has been extremely challenging for tourism businesses. What has impressed me is how businesses adapted to these challenges, implementing new cleanliness measures, adding social distancing guidelines, and utilizing technology to prioritize guest safety. The Travellers’ Choice Awards highlight the places that are consistently excellent - delivering quality experiences time and time again even while navigating changing customer expectations and new ways of working. Based on a full year of reviews from customers, this award speaks to the great service and experience you provided guests in the midst of a pandemic.”

To see diner reviews and popular dishes, activities, features and amenities of The Brasserie by Hilton Mumbai International Airport visit https://www.tripadvisor.in/Restaurant_Review-g304554-d6158439-Reviews-The_Brasserie-Mumbai_Maharashtra.html

Hilton Mumbai International Airport is located on Sahar Airport Rd, Ashok Nagar, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099. You can reach out to us. For room reservations: reservations.mumbai@hilton.com, for business inquiries: business.mumbai@hilton.com, and for dining reservations: dining.mumbai@hilton.com; or call us on +91 22 2838 0000/ 6199 0000.

About Hilton Mumbai International Airport

Hilton Mumbai International Airport offers a unique blend of colonial-era influences and contemporary design, at one of the most convenient locations near the airport. The upscale, 171-room hotel is just a five-minute drive from the international airport, a 15-minute drive from the domestic airport, and a 5-minute from International within easy access of the commercial, shopping, and entertainment centers. Designed as an elegant 19th-century colonial summer palace, the hotel offers the latest technology and best-in-class modern amenities. Dining options encompass three restaurants, a lobby lounge, and a garden bar.

The Hilton Mumbai International Airport hotel is equipped with 4,847 square feet of function space; a 2,420 square feet ballroom and 2 grand halls. The function facilities provide flexible seating arrangements, large pre-function areas and the latest in audio-visual technology, making it ideal for corporate events, social functions and weddings. The hotel also offers business travelers a business center with 4 meeting rooms, all with wireless internet access. For the after-work hours, the hotel offers an outdoor pool and a fitness center. 

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 18 world-class brands comprising more than 6,400 properties and more than one million rooms, in 119 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed more than 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, earned a top spot on the 2020 World’s Best Workplaces list, and was named the 2020 Global Industry Leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. In 2020, Hilton CleanStay was introduced, bringing an industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection to hotels worldwide. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 112 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can’t buy, plus enjoy instant benefits, including contactless check-in with room selection, Digital Key, and Connected Room. Visit newsroom.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Hilton Hotels & Resorts

Hilton Hotels & Resorts has set the benchmark for hospitality around the world, providing new product innovations and services to meet guests' evolving needs. With more than 575 hotels across six continents, Hilton Hotels & Resorts properties are located in the world’s most sought-after destinations for guests who know that where they stay matters. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Begin your journey at www.hiltonhotels.com, and learn more by visiting newsroom.hilton.com/hhr and following Hilton Hotels & Resorts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor, the world's largest travel platform*, helps hundreds of millions of travelers each month** make every trip their best trip. Travelers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to browse more than 878 million reviews and opinions of 8.8 million accommodations, restaurants, experiences, airlines and cruises. Whether planning or on a trip, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to compare low prices on hotels, flights and cruises, book popular tours and attractions, as well as reserve tables at great restaurants. Tripadvisor, the ultimate travel companion, is available in 49 markets and 28 languages.

The subsidiaries of Tripadvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRIP), own and operate a portfolio of travel media brands and businesses, operating under various websites and apps, including the following websites:

 www.bokun.io, www.cruisecritic.com, www.flipkey.com, www.thefork.com (including www.lafourchette.com, www.eltenedor.com, www.bookatable.co.uk, and www.delinski.com), www.helloreco.com, www.holidaylettings.co.uk, www.housetrip.com, www.jetsetter.com, www.niumba.com, www.seatguru.com, www.singleplatform.com, www.vacationhomerentals.com, and www.viator.com.

New Opening of 2021 | #2 Raffles Resort The Palm, opening in second half of the year 2021

Raffles bringing a second luxury resort to Dubai later this year, rebranding the former Emerald Palace Kempinski into an ultra-luxury Raffles resort. There will be eight restaurants and bars, while those familiar with the Raffles brand will welcome the arrival of the brand’s signature Raffles Patisserie, Writer’s Lounge and butler service. There will be 389 keys, with guest rooms starting from 65 square metres and each coming with a balcony or terrace with sea views.

Source

NEWS | New data from Booking.com reveals domestic and international travel preferences of Indian travellers

New data from Booking.com reveals domestic and international travel preferences of Indian travellers 

INDIA, August 2021: With a bank of accrued vacation days and restrictions finally starting to ease in India and other parts of the world, it’s no wonder travellers are looking to escape their lockdown surroundings. Travellers are looking for an escape from their normal lives and others are looking forward to some time away with family and friends after being apart for so long. Booking.com, the digital travel leader connecting travellers with the widest choice of unique places to stay, today shared a list of the top searched domestic and international destinations on Booking.com by Indian travellers in the month of August 2021. 

Indicating an intent to travel, the USA, Russia and Maldives are among the top 3 most searched international destinations for August 2021 as Indians hope for ease in international travel restrictions. Closer to home, in addition to metro cities, travellers are looking forward to enjoying nature and escaping to the outdoors -  searching for leisurely destinations like Lonavala and Leh which are amongst the topmost searched domestic destinations by Indian travellers in August 2021.

Decoding destination preferences by Indian travellers for international travel: 

With hopes for ease in international travel restrictions, especially for fully vaccinated travellers, Indians have shown interest in travelling to international destinations. For travellers who are open to flying and cross borders again, the USA, Russia, Maldives, Switzerland and Qatar are amongst the top 5 most searched destinations by Indian outbound travellers.

Top searched international destinations by Indian travellers in the month of August 2021*:

1.       USA

2.       Russia

3.       Maldives

4.       Switzerland

5.       Qatar

6.       Canada

7.       UK

8.       Mexico

9.       Armenia

10.   France

Domestic travel preferences by Indian travellers

Domestic travel continues to remain prevalent with many Indian travellers looking forward to exploring their own country and choosing destinations closer to home. Booking.com data backs this, with earlier research revealing 52% of Indian travellers are looking forward to exploring their home country this year. Metro cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru continue to be the top searched destinations for August 2021. Closer-to-home and leisurely destinations such as Lonavala, Jaipur and Leh are also some of the top searched destinations in August 2021 by Indian travellers.

Top searched domestic destinations by Indian travellers in the month of August 2021*:

1.       New Delhi

2.       Mumbai

3.       Lonavala

4.       Bengaluru

5.       Chennai

6.       Kolkata

7.       Jaipur

8.       Hyderabad 

9.       Leh

10.   Udaipur

Accommodation Types 

While hotels continue to be the top searched accommodation by Indian travellers travelling domestically, travellers are also looking to stay in alternative accommodations like guest houses, villas and apartments considering the renewed emphasis on privacy, sufficient space and personal control over cleanliness and hygiene.

Top 5 accommodation types searched by Indian travellers travelling within India in the month of August 2021*:

1.       Hotel

2.       Resort

3.       Guest House

4.       Villa

5.       Apartment

Health and safety continues to be a key traveller priority

Cleanliness continues to be top of mind for travellers with more guests searching for transparency around cleaning measures at the property. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Booking.com has witnessed a dramatic uptick in the use of specific words used by guests when they ask questions about a property. For example, the use of the words “clean” and “hygiene” have both increased by over 60%. In addition to cleanliness, Booking.com has witnessed an increase in travellers booking stays with flexible cancellation policies due to the uncertain environment. 

To provide travellers with transparency in health and hygiene at an accommodation, Booking.com introduced the health and safety measures feature on its platform last year that allows accommodation partners to select the different health & safety measures they are taking in areas such as hygiene, sanitization, social distancing and food safety amongst others. Booking.com offers a Flexible-1 Day policy allowing travellers to cancel for free up till one day before check-in as well as one-date change to travellers who book a non-refundable rate.

Commenting on the Indian travel sentiment, Ritu Mehrotra, Regional Manager, South Asia at Booking.com said, “With more and more Indians getting vaccinated and travel restrictions being lifted in phases, we are starting to see pent-up demand for travel. Travel trends that emerged during the pandemic such as closer-to-home destinations, staycations and road-trips still remain popular, but at the same time we are also seeing travel intent gradually resume for international travel. And as a leader in travel, Booking.com will continue to make it easier for people to experience the world in a safe manner - we will be there for our customers offering the widest accommodation choice at great value so travellers can enjoy all of the unforgettable experiences this world has to offer, when the time is right and it is safe to do so. ”

Methodology

*The data scientists at Booking.com looked at the most searched domestic and international destinations and accommodation types by Indian travellers in August 2021. 

**Destinations stated are as per current top searches and are subject to change as the travel environment changes

About Booking.com: 

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world whenever it’s safe to do so again. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com seamlessly connects millions of travellers with memorable experiences, a range of transportation options and incredible places to stay - from homes to hotels and much more. As one of the world’s largest travel marketplaces for both established brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes, Booking.com enables properties all over the world to reach a global audience and grow their businesses. Booking.com is available in 44 languages and offers more than 28.4 million total reported accommodation listings, including more than 6.6 million listings of homes, apartments and other unique places to stay. No matter where you want to go or what you want to do, Booking.com makes it easy and backs it all up with 24/7 customer support.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram, like us on Facebook, and for the latest news, data and insights, please visit our Indian media room.

NEWS | Vasai Taluka Hotel Association To Organize Silent Protest Against Govt.’s Decision On Continued Curbs

Vasai Taluka Hotel Association To Organize Silent Protest Against Govt.’s Decision On Continued Curbs

Mumbai, Aug 03: The Vasai Taluka Hotel Association (VTHA) with the support of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has organized a silent protest against the Government’s decision on continued restrictions on restaurant timings in the district. Tomorrow at 11 am, over 200 hotelier and restaurateurs from the region will join their last-ditch survival protest to express their desperation and helplessness against the continued lockdown. The long-distance protest will commence at Tungar Phata, Vasai and culminate at Collector’s office – Palghar. The Association will submit its plea to the Collector demanding the easing of restrictions for the hotel and restaurant industry. The two Associations have also cited the unfortunate death of a Virar-based hotelier who committed suicide last month due to loss of livelihood because of the Government’s neglect towards the Hospitality industry.

“The industry is at the brink of collapse and the Government is doing nothing to save it. We are not being allowed to operate our businesses but are expected to pay the Government its taxes and other statutory levies without fail. We are organizing this protest to bring to the attention of the authorities the deteriorating condition of our industry. We want the Government to relax the restrictions for us to be able to support our employees and families. We also want the Government to provide us with financial reliefs which so many other States have done to save their Hospitality industry. One of our own recently succumbed to the financial and mental stress caused by the devastation to his business. Debts collectors are at our doorsteps every day and we don’t know how to repay them when we don’t even know when we can go back to re-opening our business,” says Mr. Nagraj Shetty, Secretary, VTHA.

HRAWI has stated that imposition on restaurants’ operation timings is unfair. It has pleaded that restaurants either be allowed to run businesses as usual or if not, at least be offered reliefs and waivers by the Government to unburden them from statutory financial obligations.

“There is no reason for imposing restrictions on restaurant timings and if it is going to continue with the restrictions then the least the Government needs to do is waive the statutory charges for restaurants. A restaurant’s business is in the evenings and hence operating till 4 pm is meaningless. We are being singled out and left to hang dry. The Government needs to lift the restrictions immediately or we will continue to hold similar protests across the State at local levels. It is very disappointing that the Government is not interacting with us, there is no communication. We need a clear roadmap about what is to be expected from the Government for us to accordingly make informed decisions for our businesses,” concludes Mr. Sherry Bhatia, President, HRAWI.

About Hotel & Restaurant Association Western India (HRAWI)

The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) is a 71 years old Association of Hotels and Restaurants in Western India. Its members include various restaurants and smaller Hotels up to 5-Star Deluxe categories. The bulk of its members like any growth economy are made up of restaurants and budget hotels. With membership base spread across Western India, HRAWI covers Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa and the Union Territories of Daman, Diu & Silvassa, and is considered to be the voice of the Hotel and Restaurant Industry. The association is part of the national body of Federation of the Hotels & Restaurants Associations of India (FHRAI), located in New Delhi, which was originally founded in Mumbai in 1950 by the late Mr J.R.D. Tata.

NEWS | Hyatt Reports Second-Quarter 2021 Results

Mark S. Hoplamazian, president and chief executive officer of Hyatt Hotels Corporation, said, "Second quarter results improved significantly as travel demand rebounded sharply in certain markets. While leisure travel continues to lead the recovery, we are very encouraged by continued improvements in business transient and group. Accelerating RevPAR growth expanded our operating leverage and as a result we generated positive Adjusted EBITDA and operating cash flow in the quarter."

Second quarter of 2021 highlights are as follows:

• Net losses decreased compared to the second quarter of 2020 to a $9 million net loss.

• Adjusted EBITDA increased compared to the second quarter of 2020, to $55 million.

• Comparable system-wide RevPAR increased to $72.47 in the second quarter of 2021, and decreased 49.8% compared to the second quarter 2019 on a reported basis.

• Comparable owned and leased hotels RevPAR increased to $86.66 in the second quarter of 2021 and decreased 53.4% compared to the second quarter 2019 on a reported basis.

• Net rooms growth of 7.1%.

• As of June 30, 2021, the Company had cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $1,737 million.

Mr. Hoplamazian continued, "While the recovery is likely to remain uneven over the coming months, we remain confident in continued momentum in RevPAR growth given positive forward-looking indicators in our business. Furthermore, the strength of our brands continues to yield industry-leading net rooms growth. We opened 100 properties over the last twelve months and maintain a strong pipeline representing over 40% of our existing rooms."

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Marriott International Reports Second Quarter 2021 Results

• Second quarter 2021 comparable systemwide constant dollar RevPAR increased 262.6 percent worldwide, 274.6 percent in the U.S. & Canada, and 223.2 percent in international markets, compared to the 2020 second quarter;

• Second quarter 2021 comparable systemwide constant dollar RevPAR declined 43.8 percent worldwide, 39.5 percent in the U.S. & Canada, and 55.6 percent in international markets, compared to the 2019 second quarter;

• Second quarter reported diluted EPS totaled $1.28, compared to reported diluted loss per share of $0.72 in the year-ago quarter. Second quarter adjusted diluted EPS totaled $0.79, compared to second quarter 2020 adjusted diluted loss per share of $0.57;

• Second quarter reported net income totaled $422 million, compared to reported net loss of $234 million in the year-ago quarter. Second quarter adjusted net income totaled $260 million, compared to second quarter 2020 adjusted net loss of $184 million;

• Adjusted EBITDA totaled $558 million in the 2021 second quarter, compared to second quarter 2020 adjusted EBITDA of $61 million;

• The company added nearly 25,000 rooms globally during the second quarter, including roughly 13,000 rooms in international markets and a total of approximately 5,300 conversion rooms. Gross rooms growth was 6.1 percent for the twelve months ended June 30, 2021;

• At quarter end, Marriott’s worldwide development pipeline totaled 2,750 properties and nearly 478,000 rooms, including roughly 19,000 rooms approved, but not yet subject to signed contracts. More than 212,000 rooms in the pipeline were under construction as of the end of the 2021 second quarter.

New Opening of 2021 | #1 Atlantis, The Royal, opening in second half of the year 2021

The long-awaited Atlantis, The Royal will debut next door to Atlantis The Palm, creating a hospitality and entertainment destination spanning roughly 63 hectares. It will boast 795 rooms and suites, keep cool at more than 90 swimming pools – including an infinity pool 90m in length and soaring almost 96m above The Palm – and dine at outposts by some of the world’s most acclaimed chefs, including Heston Blumenthal and José Andrés.

BRAND | KFC’s India Sahyog supports 100 small food businesses in Bangalore

KFC’s India Sahyog supports 100 small food businesses in Bangalore The Program aims to help the restaurant industry in business revival by 2022

KFC India announced the launch of the Bengaluru edition of its India Sahyog program. Hugely impacted by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and the repeated lockdowns thereon, small restaurants and local food joints are the worst hit, as they struggle to continue operations. With an aim to handhold such businesses and help them overcome the impact of the pandemic, KFC India launched their India Sahyog program, in association with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI). The brand announced the launch of the Bengaluru edition with a pledge to support 100 small restaurants and local eateries in the city. The program overall aims to support 500 restaurants across the country by 2022, starting with Bengaluru, Delhi, and Hyderabad.

Speaking of the band playing its part and extending a helping hand, Samir Menon, Managing Director, KFC India, said, “KFC’s India Sahyog program takes forward the brand’s global commitment to lend entrepreneurial support to small food business owners. As a leading QSR brand growing not only in India but also with India, we view it as our responsibility to empower local businesses that form an integral part of the restaurant industry in India. Since the launch of the program, we have worked towards addressing key concerns faced by the industry as food safety & hygiene, profitability, enhancing food delivery operations & customer experience. Our aim is to extend these training and learnings to 500 local food businesses across the country thereby providing an impetus to the growth of the restaurant industry in India.”

Source

NEWS | Goa bars to be open till 11pm, RT-PCR certificate must for visitors from Kerala

Goa bars to be open till 11 pm, RT-PCR certificate must be for visitors from Kerala The state government, in its revised curfew order, has allowed bars and restaurants to operate till 11pm at 50% capacity. The state has also made in mandatory for those entering the state from Kerala to produce a negative Covid RT-PCR report.

The state government, in its revised curfew order, has allowed bars and restaurants to operate till 11 pm at 50% capacity. The state has also made it mandatory for those entering the state from Kerala to produce a negative Covid RT-PCR report.

Till now, persons were allowed to enter Goa on producing any kind of Covid-negative report, including from a rapid antigen test.

“For those carrying a Covid negative report (only RT-PCR test will be accepted in case of a person coming from Kerala) for a test done a maximum of 72 hours prior to entering in Goa,” the order states.

What remains closed in the revised curfew are casinos, auditoriums, river cruises, spa and massage parlors, cinema halls and multiplexes, educational and coaching institutions for students (except for examinations of students and holding competitive examinations with approval of the government).

Source

NEWS | Navneet Kalra’s registration certificate to run 2 restaurants cancelled, police tell Delhi HC

The registration certificate to run restaurants ‘Khan Chacha’ and ‘Town Hall’ in Khan Market has been cancelled, Delhi Police told the Delhi High Court.

Delhi Police on Friday informed Delhi High Court that the registration certificate to run restaurants ‘Khan Chacha’ and ‘Town Hall’ in upscale Khan Market of businessman Navneet Kalra has been canceled. Kalra is accused of an oxygen concentrator black marketing case.

The court was hearing Kalra’s petition challenging a show-cause notice and order suspending the registration certificate to run the restaurants following his alleged involvement in the case.

Justice Rekha Palli said it will be open to the businessman to assail the cancellation order in accordance with the law, after the police submitted that a decision has been taken by its licensing wing, after giving Kalra an opportunity to be heard.

The court also clarified that it has not expressed any opinion on the claims made in his plea. Kalra had challenged the May 11 order-cum-show-cause notice issued by the joint commissioner of police (licensing) and the subsequent suspension of the registration certificate to run the two eateries in Khan Market. He submitted that the registration certificate was canceled by the authorities by an order dated July 23 and nothing survived in the petition.

In its report filed in court, police said a show-cause notice had been issued to Kalra to explain why his premises were used to store oxygen concentrators. In response, he claimed that the running of the restaurant was his source of livelihood and since premises was lying unused and compelled by financial liabilities he stored the concentrators in good faith and as an act of service to the needy. However, the explanation was not found satisfactory, police said and the licenses were canceled.

The businessman had contended that the suspension was illegal and contrary to the provisions of the Delhi Eating Houses Registration Regulations as it did not confer power of suspension at the stage of issuance of a show-cause notice.

Kalra, who was arrested by Delhi Police in a case of alleged black marketing of oxygen concentrators during the second wave of Covid-19, said that there was no provision to suspend registration certificates merely on the grounds of registration of an FIR.

“The order of suspension is also bad as the recovery of oxygen concentrators made from the restaurant premises is no ground nor is it given as a ground for suspension of license. The order of suspension adversely affects the business, reputation, and livelihood of all employees working in the restaurant,” the plea said.

Source

Maldives News | TTM Maldives 2021 to be Held in Late November

TTM Maldives 2021 has been announced to be held from November 28 to 30, 2021. 

The 5th edition of TTM Maldives will be held as a hybrid event this year, enabling both in-person meetings and virtual meetings. The event will showcase over 150 properties and over 200 travel trade professionals from 30 different markets will attend the 5th edition of TTM Maldives. 

The exhibitors will get access to the invitation-only TTM Travel Summit, to be held on November 28. The registered exhibitors of TTM will also get a lot of added benefits including the usage of “Connect” software to pre-arrange meetings online prior to the event. Furthermore, they will also receive an invitation to the official TTM Awards and Closing Gala Event to be held on the final night. 

According to the organizers of TTM Maldives 2021, the event will strictly adhere to all Health Protection Agency’s stringent guidelines. To ensure everyone’s health and safety during these challenging times, Medtech Maldives will be overseeing COVID-19 testing for all attendees who participate in the event this time. 

TTM Maldives is the largest international travel trade show event in the Maldives which has been carried out for the past 4 years. Last year, however, due to the pandemic, TTM Maldives 2020 took place virtually from November 24 to 26 with over 500 industry partners via “TTM Connect”, the online travel trade portal of Maldives. 

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Novotel Hyderabad | Novotel Hyderabad Airport showcases lip-smacking Monsoon recipes

Hyderabad: 30th July 2021: Monsoon is incomplete without a plate full of crunchy finger foods, snacks, and munchies. The season not only brings cheer and joy after hot summer days but also elevates our cravings for our favorite delicacies. With this thought in mind, the Chefs at Novotel Hyderabad Airport showcased the special Monsoon snack Mukka Jonna Chat (Corn Chat), Kodi Korralu Bhaji (Chicken wings Bhaji) to help people satisfy their taste buds. Both the recipes are easy to cook and tastes heavenly especially in this season.

Chef Varun MB, Executive Chef, Novotel Hyderabad Airport said, “Monsoon season is a perfect time to settle one's cravings of fiery food to keep your body warm. With this lovely weather in Hyderabad, it is tough to resist the spellbinding aromas of deep-fried treats and other food cravings. We at Novotel Hyderabad Airport also promote healthy snacking as healthy foods can certainly be relishing if you cook them in interesting ways and consume them. Come and enjoy the season of pitter-patter and sizzling hot food at Novotel Hyderabad Airport.

NEWS | Restaurants may stay open till 8pm

Mumbai: Restaurants may stay open till 8pm, but no airconditioning in large halls

Timings will be extended from 4pm to 8pm and dining-in at bars and restaurants allowed for longer hours at 50 percent capacity. Non-essential shops, as well as restaurants, may be allowed to stay open till 4 pm on Saturday. Sunday restrictions will continue, says State health minister Rajesh Tope.

Health minister Rajesh Tope said shop timings will be extended from 4 pm to 8 pm and dining-in at bars and restaurants allowed for longer hours at 50 percent capacity. Non-essential shops, as well as restaurants, may be allowed to stay open till 4pm on Saturday. Sunday restrictions will continue. The guest limit for social and cultural events will also be increased.

“It has also been agreed to allow malls, theatres to open at 50% capacity. The state will also be insisting that shop owners ensure their staffers are fully vaccinated. The government will also discourage the use of AC (air-conditioning) where large groups of people have been allowed like wedding halls. It is better for establishments to open their windows and allow for better circulation,” said Tope.

However, there is no consensus within the government on allowing the general public to use local trains. A decision is likely after a meeting with railway officials. “Checking of passengers will require huge manpower. Concerns were also raised regarding the rise in cases in Kerala and so it was decided to push train travel back for some more weeks,” said Tope. “Several discussions were held before finalising restrictions. We are closely monitoring any surge related to a third wave and preparing for it but economic relief had to be extended to the business community,” said Tope.

As per the Covid update, the weekly positivity of the state was 3.8% and the weekly growth rate as on June 27 was 0.11 percent. However, some districts like Satara are at 8 percent weekly positivity and a growth rate of 0.44 percent, the highest in the state.

“Some of the districts where relaxations will not be given are still a cause of concern for us. If required, restrictions may be further tightened in those districts,” said Tope.

Source

Mahindra Holidays & Resorts Q1 PAT rises 13% yoy

Sales rose 11.15 percent to INR 196.74 crore in the quarter ended June 2021 as against INR 177.01 crore during the previous quarter ended June 2020.

Net profit of Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India rose 13.12 percent to INR 30.26 crore in the quarter ended June 2021 as against INR 26.75 crore during the previous quarter ended June 2020. Sales rose 11.15 percent to INR 196.74 crore in the quarter ended June 2021 as against INR 177.01 crore during the previous quarter ended June 2020.

Additionally, new members added in this quarter stand at 1,062 with a cumulative member base of 2,55,160. Resort operational occupancy was 51 percent in Q1 FY22. The current total inventory consists of 4,198 rooms.

Commenting on the results, Kavinder Singh, Managing Director, and Chief Executive Officer, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd. said, "Despite the extremely adverse situation caused by the second wave of the pandemic, we have delivered a strong performance during the quarter. Our Profit after Tax has grown by 13.1 percent YoY and 22.8 percent QoQ. Our business model is unique & resilient and we have seen a recovery in member additions as the second wave began to recede from mid-June onwards. Our assurance of 'SafeStay' at resorts has enabled quick recovery in occupancy levels. We are confident of the revival in leisure travel in the coming quarters."

Commenting on European operations, he added, "Covid-19 related local restrictions impacted the operations at our European subsidiary, Holiday Club Resorts' (HCR), with significant closures of our spa hotels. With the easing of restrictions starting June and the summer holiday season beginning mid-June, local travel in Finland has seen a revival and is evident from the improved summer holiday bookings at our resorts. We expect domestic leisure travel to continue to grow leading to improved performance of HCR in the coming quarters."

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NEWS | Unlocked Bengaluru plays safe; opts for staycations at city venues over trips outside

This time around, those looking for breaks are choosing staycations instead.

The second wave of the COVID pandemic might be subsiding and the phased unlocking is on, but people don't seem to be as adventurous in Bengaluru, as yet. The enormity and the repercussions of the second wave have made people a little more cautious. While travel seemed to be big on the bucket list in the last phase of unlocking, this time around, those looking for breaks are choosing staycations instead.

Amitabh Rai, general manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, shares, "We have seen a surge in staycations with families looking to rejuvenate with a getaway that entails enjoying a set of personalized dining and spa experiences including engagement activities for kids in an environment they can trust to maintain the highest standards of hygiene protocols." This seems to be the biggest criterion for families who are venturing out. Sachin Maheshwary, general manager, Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall, says, ""There has been a paradigm shift in terms of the requirements of the guests post the lockdown. City breaks have been a quick escape for guests who have not been able to travel for a long time, leading to a higher interest in spending time within the hotel than exploring the city. The main criterion while choosing a staycation is proximity and hygiene."

Apart from families, individuals are choosing staycations for celebrating special occasions like birthdays, families or other important days. Solo getaways to these city hotels also seem to be big on the priority list. Actress Meghana Gaonkar is one such. "I am someone who loves to travel, but did not get the chance to, because of the pandemic. With so much negativity and stress around, I needed a break, so I checked myself into a city hotel to experience luxury, eat good food and just get time to reset. It was for one night, but it was worth it," she shares.

There are some people in the city who seem to have found this as a quick periodic leisure activity to ensure they get a break. Communications professional Ashwini Jaisim says that she has had a few staycations through the course of the pandemic, be it solo, with family, or with friends. "It is a simple way to recharge. I chose one-night breaks and they have been good ways to beat the stress, especially since we have not been able to travel as we did earlier. Choosing a place that you trust with safety is the biggest priority right now," she adds.

Amitabh, too, shares how there have been returning guests who enjoy the staycation experience and that hotels also are giving a range of staycation packages to lure them. To this Sachin adds, "We have also seen a lot of demand for curated experiences. In terms of dining, in-room and private dining experiences are highly sought after, be it breakfast in bed or a candlelight dinner on your private terrace."

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NEWS | Hospitality Industry Pleads For Right To Earn Livelihood

HRAWI Pleads To Govt. For Lifting Restrictions Save Livelihood, Save Live

Mumbai, July 28: The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has expressed anguish against the unfair and unjustified imposition of restrictions on hotels and restaurants in the State. The Association has cited the unfortunate death of a Virar-based hotelier who committed suicide a few days ago, due to loss of livelihood. The hotelier was being hounded by debtors and with no means or source of income to pay off the same, was coerced into taking his own life. This is just one incident in a string of incidences where owners of Hospitality establishments succumbed to mental stress caused by financial losses. HRAWI has voiced out that hotel and restaurants owners are being pushed to the edge by restricting their right to livelihoods. The Association has pleaded that they either be allowed to run their businesses as usual or if not, at least be offered reliefs and waivers by the Government to unburden them from statutory financial obligations.

“It is extremely upsetting to know that a hotelier decided to end his life because of financial issues. And unfortunately, this is not an isolated incidence. Over the last year and a half, other similar incidences have occurred and the underlying reason has been the same. Financial loss caused by the lockdown and the continued restrictions has taken away the right of earning a livelihood. The industry is going through a very tough phase with no respite in sight. Hotels and restaurants owners are grappling with several issues including loss of business, payment of salaries, maintenance of the property, and the additional burden of rent, license fees, taxes, statutory fees, utility bills. This is leading to indescribable mental stress and is forcing entrepreneurs to take drastic steps. No person should be put in a position where they feel that ending their life is the solution to their woes. It is high time the Government wakes and takes this issue seriously,” says Mr. Sherry Bhatia, President, HRAWI.

HRAWI has requested for revision in timings and protocols to operate restaurants without restrictions in cities and districts with very low COVID19 cases. It has requested that restaurants falling under level 2 or 1 be allowed to operate as per the timings permitted under respective licenses. The HRAWI has asked that restaurants are allowed to operate through the week between 7 am and 12:30 am including Saturdays and Sundays.

“We have made several attempts to explain the plight of the industry to the Government and its authorities. Over the last fifteen months, we have knocked on all the doors and made several representations offering all possible recommendations to the Government. Unfortunately, not much has come through. The series of incidences involving hoteliers and restaurateurs ending their lives over business should act as a warning bell for the Government. The industry should be offered financial relief in terms of license fees and other statutory obligations for the losses suffered since the beginning of the pandemic. Also, restaurants should now be allowed to remain open daily from 7 am to 12:30 am including weekends. There is no reason why we aren’t being allowed to, at present. The Government needs to instil confidence amongst business owners and offer hope by allowing them to earn their livelihoods and to those who depend on them for their livelihoods,” concludes Mr. Pradeep Shetty, Sr. Vice President, HRAWI.

About Hotel & Restaurant Association Western India (HRAWI)

The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) is a 71 years old Association of Hotels and Restaurants in Western India. Its members include various restaurants and smaller Hotels up to 5-Star Deluxe categories. The bulk of its members like any growth economy are made up of restaurants and budget hotels. With a membership base spread across Western India, HRAWI covers Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa, and the Union Territories of Daman, Diu & Silvassa, and is considered to be the voice of the Hotel and Restaurant Industry. The association is part of the national body of the Federation of the Hotels & Restaurants Associations of India (FHRAI), located in New Delhi, which was originally founded in Mumbai in 1950 by the late Mr. J.R.D. Tata.

EVENTS | Hyatt Loves Local hosts Cook Off at Hyatt Regency Amritsar

The chefs were challenged with the concept of using local Amritsari ingredients in their master dishes, with the winning dish set to be displayed as the August Month’s Special at Punjab Province restaurant

Following the philosophy of Hyatt Loves Local , a program at Hyatt hotels around the world - introduced to uplift and encourage collaboration with small businesses, a cook-off competition for Hyatt Regency Amritsar’s chefs was organized on July, 26th 2021 at the Regency Ballroom.  6 chefs participated and competed against each other.

The chefs were challenged with the concept of using local Amritsari ingredients in their master dishes, with the winning dish set to be displayed as the August Month’s Special at Punjab Province restaurant highlighting the Chef’s work as well as the perfect use of the local ingredients.

The prime objective of the competition was to promote and increase the use of the local ingredients and create a unique dish with their sense of creativity and innovation. The event was judged by Chef Jyoti Arora – Master chef India Finalist, Colonel Mandeep and by Kamaljit Singh – General Manager of Hyatt Regency Amritsar.

Keeping in mind the current situation, all the chefs, judges, and the audience were following the social norms of using Masks, Gloves, Hand sanitizer and maintaining Social Distancing at the event.

The results were based on Taste, Originality of the recipe, Use of local ingredients as well as by Presentation. Chef Vishwajeet emerged as the winner for the event and the other chef contestants displayed a stellar show through the cook off!

Brand | Domino's Campaign for Vaccination

NEWS | Burgerama Expands its Exquisite Menu

Since its inception, the brand has added to its menu whilst creating new ways for customers to customize their orders.

Burgerama is the first brand to recreate the quintessential, crave-worthy cheeseburger experience in India It is the creation of 3 friends- Kabir Bose, Vivek Prakash and Viraaj Badhwar and was born out of a combined love for good authentic food, music and travel.

In early 2018 the trio surrendered their accelerating corporate careers and decided to use their 20 year old friendship as a foundation to create a burger experience focusing on quality, simplicity, customizability and pure deliciousness. Their reason for doing this was simple; they were tired of waiting for their next trip abroad to get their hands on one of those delicious, juicy, crave-worthy cheeseburgers- so they set out to create their own!

They spent the initial months honing their skills by watching hundreds of youtube videos, reading numerous cookbooks and studying food websites. Their single minded focus was to recreate the perfect burger experience they had grown up craving. By combining the skills they had gained over the years in operations, business expansion, people management and financial planning along with their passion for great food, they launched the first Burgerama outlet in October 2018.

Over the past 3 years the brand has been constantly growing, pandemic and lockdowns notwithstanding. The brand has cemented itself into the hearts of it’s consumers and boasts an incredibly loyal customer base. Burgerama has created a niche for itself in the market and has become synonymous with authenticity. The brand has recently opened it’s fifth outlet in Noida and is gearing up for the next phase of expansion across the region and beyond.

From the patties being freshly grilled, to the way the burgers are carefully assembled; the main focus is to deliver true international flavours that hit the spot every single time. The fast-casual, made-for-delivery burger concept serves easy-to-eat, highly customizable comfort food in eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging.

Through its journey, the brand has steadily added new menu offerings for their customers to choose from, as well as streamlined its online ordering process giving customers the freedom to pair their favourite burgers with half portions of any side!

Since its inception, the brand has added to its menu whilst creating new ways for customers to customize their orders. Burgerama has recently brought back a signature burger on popular demand, their BBQ honey glazed pulled pork burger called: OINK OINK. In addition they recently launched Hot Wings that have been heralded as the best in the city by a growing number of fans.