Appointment | Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi brings in new director of F&B

Driss Bajtit brings more than 14 years of experience to the hotel

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotels and Villas has appointed Driss Bajtit as director of food and beverage. He will handle the operations of six F&B outlets at the Saadiyat Island hotel.

Bajtit brings more than 14 years of experience across international markets in Spain, China, Morocco, and the UAE. He will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities and streamlining resources to maximize performance and quality standards. He is also expected to focus on creating new F&B concepts.

Bajtit said: “I am thrilled to join the team at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas. As we look towards the high season, I will ensure smooth operations at all the outlets in this world-renowned property.

“Moreover, guests will be delighted to witness the new and bespoke F&B concepts that will roll out across the resort soon.”

The majority of Bajtit’s experience has been in Abu Dhabi but one of his earliest positions was in Beijing, China. He started out as an F&B management trainee for Ritz-Carlton, later joining Mandarin Oriental in Sanya City.

He moved to Abu Dhabi in 2014, working as the assistant F&B venues manager for The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.

His most recent role was with Abu Dhabi National Hotels as an operations manager for Venetian Village, later promoted to multi-property director of F&B.

Source

Marriott International | JW Marriott Charlotte Debuts in North Carolina

Charlotte’s Newest Hotel is Set to Redefine Luxury Hospitality with Stunning Design, Exceptional Service and a Holistic Approach to Well-being

JW Marriott, part of Marriott International, makes its debut today in North Carolina with the opening of JW Marriott Charlotte, located in the bustling Southern city’s dynamic Uptown neighborhood. The 381-room luxury hotel, including 34 custom suites, offers discerning guests an urban retreat with inspired surroundings in which to relax and be present.

“With the opening of JW Marriott Charlotte, we will make sure every detail is taken care of, so our guests can focus on themselves during their stay,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “With thoughtful details throughout the property, holistic programming, and an array of wellness offerings, guests will be encouraged to experience every moment to the fullest.”

Inspired Culinary Creations
JW Marriott Charlotte embraces the brand’s focus on authentic dining experiences that are gratifying and refined with three new concepts for guests and locals alike:

• Dean’s Italian Steakhouse – A classic American steakhouse with Italian expression set in a modern, rustic open space. Dean’s features a show kitchen where guests can watch American Wagyu beef and other prime cuts - as well as authentic homemade pasta dishes - being prepared.

• Caroline’s Oyster Bar – A fanciful take on coastal seafood celebrating the neighborhood charm and fresh flavors of the North Carolina coast. The scene is set by a 360-degree centerpiece bar and an 8-seat Carolina-style raw oyster bar.

• Aura Rooftop – Hidden atop the fifth floor, this lush botanical paradise includes a bar and pool serving up magnetic vibes and a regal tone. When night falls, the building’s mirror-like exterior reflects the city back onto itself, creating a powerful aura, softened by lush greenery, similar to English gardens and conservatories. The menu features botanical craft cocktails, boutique wines, and small bites.

“We couldn’t be more proud to introduce the JW Marriott brand to the Carolinas,” said David Malmberg, General Manager, JW Marriott Charlotte. “With its seamless integration into the bustling Uptown neighborhood, modern design, well-being amenities, and inspired culinary concepts, JW Marriott Charlotte brings excellence and legacy to life to another new city.”

Source

NEWS | 700 Delhi guesthouses, hotels told to shut over borewell use

DPCC in its notice has asked the guesthouses to take corrective measures within 15 days, failing which would result in disconnection of electricity and water, along with the cancellation of licence.

over 700 guesthouses and small hotels in Paharganj and Karol Bagh have been issued closure notices by Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) for illegal extraction of groundwater using borewells.

DPCC in its notice has asked the guesthouses to take corrective measures within 15 days, failing which would result in disconnection of electricity and water, along with the cancellation of licence.

“According to Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), Paharganj in New Delhi has been declared as an overexploited area, and illegal extraction of groundwater by the hotels/guesthouses without having any valid NOC from CGWA are thereby violating the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986,” said one such notice issued by DPCC to a guesthouse in Paharganj, a copy of which is with TOI.

Guesthouse owners, however, said borewell water was being used only for bathing purposes, with no commercial activities, kitchens or laundries functioning at any of these smaller units. “The need to use borewells arose as the Delhi Jal Board water only comes for around four hours each day – two in the morning and two in the afternoon. A number of hotels and guesthouses took permission from CGWA to use borewells prior to 2014, but what will the new ones do that came up after 2014?” asked Sourabh Chhabra, secretary, Paharganj Guesthouse Owner’s Association, adding that until Monday, at least 700 notices had been issued in the area.

Ashwini Arora, general secretary of the association and another guesthouse owner in Paharganj, said sewer charges of Rs 2,000 for extraction purposes were already being paid by guesthouses, as was stated on Delhi Jal Board (DJB) website, however, they were still being targeted by the authorities. “Community borewells have been created by DJB nearby, but guesthouses that are doing no commercial activity are now being penalised. The industry has already suffered a lot,” Arora said.

Source

NEWS | Maharahstra Govermaent Allow restaurants to stay open till 10 pm

The Government of Maharashtra has allowed restaurants to stay open for business till 10 pm on all days with a 50 percent cap on capacity, it was announced on August 11, 2021.

ETHospitalityWorld spoke with Anurag Katriar, the President of the National Restaurants Association of India about this news, something that the entire F&B community in the state had been agitating for, especially after markets were allowed to open till 10 pm last week.

“After the Cabinet meeting today, where the Health Minister announced the extension of business hours till 10 pm for restaurants, we are awaiting the official GR (Government Regulation),” Katriar said adding that earlier in the day, cabinet minister and Guardian minister for Mumbai, Aslam Shaikh had spoken to him on the phone and assured that the timings would be extended.

Malls have also been allowed to stay open till 10 pm but only for people who were double vaccinated, from news which Katriar had received.

Restaurateurs across the state are breathing a sigh of relief. “This is definitely a great step forward, but there is a lot more to be done. The government should now announce the roadmap for further normalisation. Based on whatever criteria on which they will be decided—it cannot be left to the whims and fancies of individuals. Because now it's not only about extension of timing, it's also about when do you improve the capacity utilisation. I'm not saying do it today, but let's come up with a roadmap that when cases come down to a certain levels or hospitalisation comes down to this level, things will be reexamined. That way, we all know what to expect and we don't have to go through what we have gone through the last one week,” he said.

News | Khyathi bags integrated sales, marketing and communications mandate for Anuraga Palace and Rajasthali Resort & Spa

Khyathi bags integrated sales, marketing and communications mandate for Anuraga Palace and Rajasthali Resort & Spa

Jaipur, August 2021: Khyathi, a coming of age sales and marketing brand, has won integrated marketing and communications mandate for the luxury boutique property, Anuraga Palace in Ranthambore and the luxurious Rajasthali Resort & Spa in Jaipur. As part of the mandate, Khyathi will be innovating and strategizing on their sales, marketing- digital and social media, creatives, visual content, and public relations to promote their unique offerings and top-notch services.

Anuraga Palace, one of the oldest in Ranthambore has over the years transpired itself into one of the finest luxurious palace resorts, while still preserving ancient heritage. It is a perfect amalgamation of wilderness and luxury along with a touch of history, culture, and tradition at Ranthambore. Whereas, Rajasthali Resort & Spa is a luxury resort spread across 25 acres and located against the picturesque backdrop of the Aravalli ranges. A unique blend of affordability and luxury experience is what defines the truly magnificent and rejuvenating stay experience.

“We are excited on our partnership with the hospitality brands such as The Anuraga Palace and Rajasthali Resort & Spa. We are working towards strengthening the brand's visibility and recall value by positioning it amongst the best hotels. Through our extensive marketing strategies that resonate with the brands’, we will build on creating a strong customer base for them.” - quoted Varun Mehrotra, Co-Founder and CEO of Khyathi.

"It gives us immense pleasure to be associated with two distinct hospitality brands. With a 360 degree integrated mandate, we are aiming to re-inforce on their online and offline presence and work as their partner in increasing sales" - quoted Anubha Srivastava, Co-Founder, Khyathi.

Khyathi assists their patrons to amplify their incremental revenues, gain a loyal customer base and market their name to become a known brand and expand their accounts. As a brand, they work to provide a variety of solutions for sales and marketing including digital and social media marketing, campaign strategizing, visual content creation, revenue maximization, content marketing and strategy and brand management amongst the others.

Khyathi strives to bring the well-deserved fame to the name. One can reach the company for business association through https://khyathi.co/.

New Opening | Anantara Announces Upcoming Launch of New Resort on Dubai’s World Islands

We are pleased to announce an exciting addition to the brand’s portfolio in Dubai with the upcoming launch of Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort in Q4 of 2021. The new resort will be the first hotel in the South American continent of the World Islands development.

The island will be completely dedicated to the resort, with guests able to access by boat in just 15 minutes from the jetty at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort. The property will feature 70 keys comprised of villas and suites. Villas will have a private pool, an outdoor dining area and direct access to the beach, making the perfect retreat for families and couples.

The new resort will offer multiple dining options, in addition to a stylish bar lounge with magnificent panoramic views of the Dubai skyline, including the famous landmarks Burj Khalifa and Burj al Arab. In-room spa treatments, a gym and a kid’s club will also be part of the new resort's amenities.

Insights | This Independence Day, National Geographic to premiere ‘Buried Seeds’; the inspiring journey of world-renowned Indian Chef Vikas Khanna

“Buried Seeds uncovers many memories and emotions that were hidden inside me for so long” – Chef Vikas Khanna

For the first time on television, catch the inspiring and invigorating story of Vikas Khanna, directed by Andrei Severny on 15th August 2021 at 9.00 pm on National Geographic in India

India,  August, 2021: National Geographic, known for bringing stories that take you on an enlightening and transformative journey, is celebrating this Independence Day with the premiere of Buried Seeds, the life story of Michelin chef Vikas Khanna. National Geographic in India is bringing to its viewers the timeless and true story of human passion and willpower on television for the first time. 

Directed and produced by contemporary filmmaker Andrei Severny, the film traces the journey of Vikas Khanna from his beginnings as a child with misaligned feet to the man who took Indian cuisine to the world. Vikas narrates the incredible story of how he learned to walk and won people’s hearts with the magic of his cooking. Along the way, he becomes one of the most influential chefs in the world and a cultural ambassador of India. The film also captures the true essence of Indian culture, heritage, and customs through kaleidoscopic visuals of India, with all the beauty, bonding, and sacrifices made by an Indian family to fulfill the dream of their child. 

“At National Geographic, we believe in telling stories that are perspective-shifting, eye-opening and sometimes even life-changing. This Independence Day, we wanted to celebrate by giving our viewers an exclusive access to the story of an Indian icon – Vikas Khanna. Buried Seeds is a transformational story of passion, devotion, faith combined with Vikas’ immense love for Indian culture. We are confident that this storytelling will give viewers an incredible perspective into the chef’s life. It is truly a moment of pride to associate with Vikas and Andrei and bring their film to our audiences for the very first time on television on such a significant day,” said a National Geographic spokesperson  

“Buried Seeds is very personal to me. It’s a collective wisdom of everybody that influenced and inspired me, from poets, philosophers, mentors to family members. Their words are with me through every struggle or triumph. Buried Seeds uncovers many memories and emotions that were hidden inside me for so long. It is my hope that people will see something of themselves in my story. I hope they will see the possibilities for what they can become. The music does not end in us. Sometimes we need to open our hearts and listen. That’s what Buried Seeds helped me do in my life - and that’s what I believe it can offer to others,” said Vikas Khanna

“Buried Seeds offers a fresh perspective in these challenging times. The seeds are inside each of us; they unite us and will only grow strong. The old “you” will die to give space to the new “you” – a particle in the long chain of generations, a speck of dust of collective wisdom and an everlasting sacrifice for the children and those who come after. I am very grateful to National Geographic and its magnificent team for a chance to share the film with its audience. I hope this film will make the viewers think and look at their own lives and dreams in a new light,” said Andrei Severny

The film has been distributed by FilmKaravan

Buried Seeds will air on 15th August 2021, at 9.00 pm on National Geographic in India

About National Geographic Partners 

National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and the National Geographic Society, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure, and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. . NGP returns 27% of the proceeds to the non-profit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation, and education. In India, National Geographic Channel and Nat Geo Wild are available across six languages and have a wide-ranging mix of international shows which are made local relevant and shows that are developed and created locally 

About FilmKaravan

FilmKaravan is a streamlined aggregation & delivery solution house that aggregates, encodes, packages, and delivers films and web-series to major digital platforms. Having produced the recently International Emmy award winning series Delhi Crime their production house has churned out coming of age original content like What Are the Odds? & Leeches streaming on popular streaming platforms. To raise the banner of independent cinema, Filmkaravan has also collaborated with YouTube by launching an online non for profit film festival called Bandra Film Festival early this year showcasing innovative, cutting edge films & hidden gems made by prolific film makers on their exclusive YouTube channel. For more information, visit www. http://www.filmkaravan.com/

IHCL reports Q1 revenue from operations at INR 345 cr; losses at INR 301.5 cr

IHCL reported revenue from operations of INR 344.55 crore for the quarter ended June this year, up from INR 144 crore in the corresponding period of the last fiscal. On a quarter on quarter basis though, it reported a 44 per cent fall in revenues.

It reported losses of INR 301.5 crore down from INR 313 crore in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, losses were up by 102 per cent.

IHCL said business for the quarter was severely impacted on account of the second wave and the chain witnessed softer revenues due to partial or complete lockdowns in several states of India.

---

---

Zomato Indian Food Delivery INR 4538 Crores this quarter.

Domestic food delivery business reported the highest ever gross order value (GOV) in the quarter under review, increasing by 37 percent to around INR 4,538 crore, compared to INR 3,315 crore in the previous quarter.

Zomato said its operational revenue increased by 22 percent to INR 844 crore in April-June, while net losses rose over 168 percent from the previous quarter to INR 360 crore, as the food delivery platform presented its maiden quarterly earnings as a public company on Tuesday.

While INR 806 crore of operational revenue came from India, revenue of INR 31 crore was logged from the UAE, and the balance from other markets.

Zomato said its adjusted revenue — which is a combination of revenue from operations and customer delivery charges — increased 26 percent to INR 1,160 crore in the June quarter, compared to around Rs 920 crore in the March quarter.

“Revenue growth was largely on the back of growth in our core food delivery business, which continued to grow despite the severe Covid-19 wave starting April,” said cofounder and chief executive Deepinder Goyal in the company’s filings to the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Zomato said the increase in losses is due “largely on account of non-cash Esop (employee stock ownership plan) expenses, which have increased meaningfully in Q1 of FY22 due to significant Esop grants made… pursuant to creation of a new Esop 2021 scheme.’

Zomato | Zomato's revenue grows to INR 844 crore as losses widen 168% for April-June quarter

Zomato's revenue grows to INR 844 crore as losses widen 168% for April-June quarter

While INR 806 crore of operational revenue came from India, revenue of INR 31 crore was logged from the UAE, and the balance from other markets.

zomato said its operational revenue increased by 22 percent to INR 844 crore in April-June, while net losses rose over 168 percent from the previous quarter to INR 360 crore, as the food delivery platform presented its maiden quarterly earnings as a public company on Tuesday.

While INR 806 crore of operational revenue came from India, revenue of INR 31 crore was logged from the UAE, and the balance from other markets.

Zomato said its adjusted revenue — which is a combination of revenue from operations and customer delivery charges — increased 26 percent to INR 1,160 crore in the June quarter, compared to around Rs 920 crore in the March quarter.

“Revenue growth was largely on the back of growth in our core food delivery business, which continued to grow despite the severe Covid-19 wave starting April,” said cofounder and chief executive Deepinder Goyal in the company’s filings to the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Zomato said the increase in losses is due “largely on account of non-cash Esop (employee stock ownership plan) expenses, which have increased meaningfully in Q1 of FY22 due to significant Esop grants made… pursuant to creation of a new Esop 2021 scheme.’

The Gurgaon-based company, which listed successfully on the BSE last month, reported total losses of INR 134 crore in the March quarter, with revenue at INR 692 crore. In the June quarter, it earned revenue of INR 266 crore, with losses of nearly INR 100 crore.

Zomato’s market capitalisation stood at a little over INR 98,000 crore as of Tuesday, as the stock closed at INR 124.95, down by more than 4 percent.

Spike In Orders
The company said the domestic food delivery business reported the highest ever gross order value (GOV) in the quarter under review, increasing by 37 percent to around INR 4,538 crore, compared to INR 3,315 crore in the previous quarter.

GOV is the total monetary value of all food delivery orders placed on Zomato India, including taxes, customer delivery charges, gross of all discounts, excluding tips.

National Geographic has teamed up with Michelin Starred Chef Vikas Khanna to delight viewers with something special this Independence Day

What's cooking between National Geographic and Chef Vikas Khanna ahead of Independence Day? 

National Geographic, a brand known for its rich legacy of authentic and impactful storytelling has teamed up with Michelin Starred Chef Vikas Khanna to delight viewers with something special this Independence Day. In a special teaser, Vikas Khanna can be seen cooking a tricolor dish as a homage to the ancestors. The dish truly represents the essence of India with its vibrant colors.

Born in Amritsar, Vikas Khanna had the disability of misaligned legs. He endured overwhelming obstacles to achieve his dreams and become a successful Michelin-starred chef. Today, he is known to many as India’s favourite Chef and one of the best-known Indians in the world of food.

NEWS | Chhattisgarh Tourism to formulate guidelines for homestay and water-based tourism soon

hese guidelines are being planned to make tourism development in the state more inclusive, community-oriented and sustainable.

Chhattisgarh Tourism will formulate guidelines for homestays and water-based tourism activities in the state soon. These guidelines are being planned to make tourism development in the state more inclusive, community-oriented and sustainable.

Informing this at an e-conclave on tourism organized by the Industry Chamber, FICCI, Shubhda Chaturvedi, Head - Communications and Marketing, Chhattisgarh Tourism has said that the tourism board is working with self-help groups in the state to ensure community participation in the tourism activities in Chhattisgarh so that the benefits of tourism development can reach the rural communities and deliver gainful employment opportunities.

Chaturvedi informed that the state tourism board is working closely with the agencies like ToFTigers and Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI) to advance the potential in eco-tourism and agri-tourism in Chhattisgarh.

As far as connectivity and accessibility are concerned, she said that the state is well connected by road, rail, and air. The opening of airports at Jagdalpur and Bilaspur, in addition to the Raipur airport, has considerably improved the accessibility to the state in the last year, she said.

Source

IHCL reports Q1 revenue from operations at INR 345 cr; losses at INR 301.5 cr

IHCL Board approves raising of long term funds not exceeding INR 250 crore by way of secured or unsecured long term financing.

Tata Group backed Indian Hotel Company's board has approved raising of long term funds not exceeding Rs 250 crore by way of secured or unsecured long term financing in one or a combination of external commercial borrowings, foreign currency borrowings, non-convertible debentures, term loans or through any other debt instrument in one or more tranches on Monday.

At a board meeting, the board also authorised a committee to determine and approve the quantum, timing and nature of terms and conditions of the instrument to be issued.

IHCL reported revenue from operations of INR 344.55 crore for the quarter ended June this year, up from INR 144 crore in the corresponding period of the last fiscal. On a quarter on quarter basis though, it reported a 44 per cent fall in revenues.

It reported losses of INR 301.5 crore down from INR 313 crore in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, losses were up by 102 per cent.

IHCL said business for the quarter was severely impacted on account of the second wave and the chain witnessed softer revenues due to partial or complete lockdowns in several states of India.

Hyatt News | Thompson Hollywood Debuts in the Heart of Los Angeles

The 190-Room Property Expands Thompson Hotels' West Coast Footprint with Interior Design by Tara Bernerd & Partners, Signature Dining Concepts from Acclaimed Chef Lincoln Carson, the Bar Lis Rooftop Lounge and Beyond

(CHICAGO)  August 9, 2021 –– Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) is proud to announce the debut of Thompson Hollywood, the luxury lifestyle hotel situated on Wilcox Avenue near Hollywood and Vine. A dynamic mix of global sophistication, hyper-local immersion and intuitive service, the prime location embodies the Thompson Hotels brand’s promise to provide guests with the ultimate “in-the-know” experience at the refined edge of travel. The new 11-story hotel features 190 mid-century-inspired guestrooms, including 16 suites, a sophisticated feature dining concept from acclaimed LA-based chef Lincoln Carson and Bar Lis, a destination rooftop lounge and pool with unparalleled city views. Sure to be a gathering spot for tasteful travelers and the eclectic Hollywood community alike, the much-anticipated project is owned by Relevant Group in collaboration with Steinberg Hart for architecture and interior design by Tara Bernerd & Partners, with Ten Five Hospitality overseeing food and beverage.

Thoughtfully designed by renowned London-based interior architecture studio Tara Bernerd & Partners, the 11-floor hotel innovatively combines the hallmarks of timeless elegance with a raw industrial edge to create a unique atmosphere that is relaxing and inspiring, familiar and new.  The overall design is bold and confident, drawing upon the West Coast Modernist movement and a dash of Hollywood glamour as inspirations toseamlessly blend for a contemporary and elegant approach throughout.

Upon entry, a trellis-covered walkway beckons guests to a lobby adorned in mid-toned timber and teeming with verdant greenery, forming a tranquil and welcoming haven upon arrival. A spectacular custom terrazzo floor awaits guests underfoot, featuring an intricate metal inlay pattern that perfectly complements the elegant mid-century and contemporary furniture, bespoke Tara Bernerd & Partners rugs and inviting terrazzo reception desk. The convenient lobby bar - topped with a striking retro-green onyx - serves up coffee, cocktails or casual bites for those coming, going or staying to socialize, all with the laid-back hospitality and inclusive spirit emblematic of the Thompson Hotels brand’s desire to ensure everyone who walks through the doors feels more like a resident than a guest.    

Makeover | Hyatt Regency Chennai turns 10 and is getting a makeover

Tarun Seth, general manager of the hotel is confident that by mid 2022, the city will get a more contemporary property.

The Hyatt Regency Chennai turned ten this weekend and ETHospitaltyWorld spoke with Tarun Seth, the general manager of the property on the occasion.

“I arrived when the hotel was not yet seven years old and now, it’s turning 10 in front of me. I'll be witnessing the celebration of the 10th year. Hyatt Regency Chennai was the first Hyatt in south India. It obviously makes this occasion even more special. We've been able to not just establish ourselves in this decade but been able to set up our footprint in a very formidable manner in the region,” Seth said.

Over these 10 years, the hotel had been a preferred choice for instance during sporting events, he said, with a large room inventory, second only to the ITC Grand Chola, and around 30,000 square feet of banqueting space. The hotel was the base for Sunriser Hyderabad this year, he said.

Large banquet space also made them ideal for the MICE business in Chennai, especially medical conferences in the city, he added. “Chennai obviously does not enjoy the highest rate amongst all Metro—it possibly comes last. But travel has really begun well, in fact, in the month of July occupancies around this part of the city in overall comm set has come to about close to 45 to 50 percent. We as a hotel did almost close to 48 percent occupancy in the last month and I think looking at August we might start doing 55 to 60 percent occupancy, which is only 15 to 20 percent less than our pre Covid levels,” Seth said on business this year.

While staycations continue and remain a bedrock of business during the weekends, small businesses have also started to travel—those with local negotiated contracts, in and around the city. Business is coming in from Coimbatore, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, markets which have opened up for them, he said, adding that some medical companies have also started having smaller conferences, all within the Covid rules.

"The hotel is actually sprucing up all its rooms. And by mid 2022, the work to upgrade the rooms and interiors will be complete. So, by next June you will possibly have 325 very contemporary rooms completely renewed from inside. That's a very big takeaway that in the 10th year, the promoters have really gone all out to invest more money into the property," Seth added in conclusion.

source

Dubai's hotel sector is gearing up for Expo 2020

The world's largest and most impactful event ever to take place between OCtober, 2021, and 31st March, 2022

Dubai's hotel sector is gearing up for Expo 2020 Dubai, the world's largest and most impactful event ever to take place in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, from 1st October, 2021, to 31st March, 2022, while recovery from the COVID-19 is gaining momentum globally and the UAE is getting ready to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of its formation.

With Expo 2020’s theme of ''Connecting Minds, Creating the Future'', as well as one or more of its sub-themes of Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability, Dubai will welcome visitors from every corner of the globe to join the making of a new world, as it brings together the planet in one place to reimagine tomorrow.

The United Arab Emirates services and business sectors, spearheaded by the hotel, travel and tourism industry, have been working tirelessly to make visitors to Expo enjoy a safe, inspiring and unforgettable experience during the six-month world event.

Wego, which specialises in travel services and online reservations, stated that various countries are awaiting the start of Expo 2020 Dubai. The company revealed that it witnessed, through its website, about 533,000 searches during July, on flights and hotels for the period in which this event will be held.

This indicates the increasing demand that Dubai is witnessing, and the rapid recovery of the business tourism sector, noting that in light of the preparations for Expo 2020 Dubai, hotels have begun to allocate packages and extended stay offers specifically for visitors to the exhibition, the company stated.

Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) revealed that until May 2021, there were 128,545 hotel rooms in Dubai. There were 715 hotel establishments, including 134 five-star hotels.

Dubai Tourism's statistics showed that the emirate welcomed 2.06 million international overnight visitors from January to May 2021.

The Emirate has one of the highest number of hotel rooms in the world, according to a study by travel site Insider Monkey. Dubai has 100,000 hotel rooms available for visiting guests.

Dubai has hotels such as Burj Al Arab and The Address and hosts seven hotels from the 12 tallest in the world including the Gevora Hotel (356.3 metres), JW Marriott Marquis Dubai (355m), SLS Dubai Hotel and Residences (336m), Rose Rayhaan by Rotana (333m), Burj Al Arab (321m), Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel (309m) and Millennium Plaza (294m).

The Dubai hotel sector is building more hotels despite the challenge and impact of COVID-19 on global tourism and travel.

Expo 2020 Dubai will be the largest cultural gathering in the world and will provide inspiring experiences for 182 days. More than 200 entities will contribute to these experiences, including countries, multilateral organisations, companies, and educational institutions, as well as millions of visitors, to create a version that is the largest and most diverse.

Source

Trends | National Digital Tourism Mission may be reality soon

Arvind Singh, Secretary — Tourism, Government of India

announced that a task force had been formed and initial deliberations begun on a mission intended to connect all stakeholders in the tourism ecosystem digitally.

The National Digital Tourism Mission for India may soon become a reality as Arvind Singh, Secretary — Tourism, Government of India said his Ministry had started initial deliberations on the same at an e-conclave on travel and tourism organized by FICCI on August 6, 2021.

The Tourism Ministry had formed a Task Force for the National Digital Tourism Mission which had already had its first virtual meeting this week.

The Tourism Secretary said that the Ministry had started the digitization process during the Covid19 pandemic itself by launching NIDHI and SAATHI projects. He said that the Ministry has started expanding the NIDHI system by bringing tour operators, travel agents, etc. also on the platform. Singh said that the National Digital Tourism Mission was intended to connect stakeholders in the tourism eco-system digitally in the same lines as the National Health Mission.

Source

Trends | Conrad Bengaluru offers travel leisure options within the city for travelers

The Great Small Breaks staycation offers complimentary stays and meals for children aged below 12, among other experiences

As the unlock unfolds and families are eager for short –distance getaways, Conrad Bengaluru has come out with the perfect option. Under the umbrella of Hilton’s campaign “Great Small Breaks”, a one of a one-of-a-kind staycation offer, tailor-made for families and young guests, Conrad Bengaluru has launched their version of leisure travel within the city for leisure travelers, especially families.

This initiative by the property promises to enhance the Conrad experience for families, especially their young ones with complimentary stays, personalized surprises, interactive games and a whole host of fun activities.

“As the Garden city, unlocks to its residents, we took this opportunity to gift our little ones an experience of boundless joy and happiness in a safe abode. Under our brand initiative of Great Small Breaks, we connected the hearts of millions in the city for an inspiring weekend getaways. With this initiative, we have touched the aspects of capturing the entire journey of a Little Guest – from a Disney land experiential welcome, to an elevated Check in, Room stay, kids menu, kids zone activities and much more to delight them. As we are returning back to travel, we are here to imbued and spread the warmth of Hilton Hospitality across the globe”, said Srijan Vadhera, General Manager, Conrad Bengaluru.

The experience begins straight from the guest’s doorstep with a customized, fairy-tale like pickup service. The property cars are decorated with balloons, filled with chocolates along with games to keep the young ones occupied while on their way to the property. On arrival, the guests are greeted with a larger than life Mickey Mouse and a tray filled with lollypops, marshmallows and chocolate dip, as a welcome treat. With a special check -in counter with an elevated step for the young ones, they are asked to fill in their preferences for cupcakes, chocolates or cookies.

New Opening of 2021 | #3 The Dubai Edition, opening in second half of the year 2021

Launching by the end of 2021, the Dubai EDITION will be the UAE’s second EDITION property, following on from the successful arrival of the Abu Dhabi EDITION in the capital’s Al Bateen Marina at the end of 2018. In Dubai, the luxury lifestyle hotel will be located opposite The Dubai Mall. The hotel will feature 275 guestrooms and suites and will cater to the leisure traveller with a number of restaurants and bars, a pool, spa and fitness centre. With business travellers in mind, the hotel will also feature events spaces including meeting rooms and a flexible ballroom.

NEWS | Owners of restaurants, bars and hotels across Maharashtra to hold silent protest march on August 10

The owners of restaurants, bars and hotels across Maharashtra have decided to hold a silent protest march on August 10 as a last resort if the state does not restore their operation timings to their original, at least 10 pm.

The owners of restaurants, bars and hotels across Maharashtra have decided to hold a silent protest march on August 10 as a last resort if the state does not restore their operation timings to their original, at least 10 pm.

The resolution came in at the joint meeting of all the hotel associations and their apex bodies in the state. The hospitality industry has already expressed grave disappointment over alleged discrimination by the authorities in not allowing hotels to operate beyond 4 pm even as all other outlets can now function till 10 pm.

They have contended that in settings as diverse as roadside eateries and aircraft cabins, people were being allowed to remove masks for longer periods while eating. They said there was no evidence of restaurants causing more Covid-19 spread than other businesses. In fact, they also see a larger conspiracy to promote food delivery aggregators.

"The number of shops in the city of Mumbai would be at least 10 times more than the number of restaurants. We fail to understand how curtailing the timings of a restaurant while not curtailing any other business activities can be justified for the purposes of prevention or mitigation of the pandemic. In fact, the public interface at other outlets is far more than in restaurants. Also, there is no scientific data to point out that restaurant business jeopardises public health and is thus required to be restricted continuously," HRAWI senior vice president Pradeep Shetty had stated in letters sent to the municipal commissioner as well as chief secretary

AHAR president Shivanand Shetty said initially they will hold a press conference to address the media on discrimination and the state of the industry besides spreading awareness through social media before resorting to the protest march.