Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh Goes Underground With New Bar

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh Goes Underground With New Bar

Metropole Underground opens as the city’s first subterranean venue

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (June 2022) — Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh has applied a new facet to the destination’s vibrant bar scene with Metropole Underground: the first subterranean bar in Cambodia’s capital.

Inspired by the louche, chic vibe of early 20th Century Paris, Metropole Underground is a unique addition to the famously lively bar scene in Phnom Penh.

Discreetly located in the basement of the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh, the city’s newest international branded luxury hotel, the sophisticated space offers premium drinks, light gourmet bites, and nightly live entertainment spanning bands and DJ beats.

The bar, which like the rest of the hotel, is designed by award-wining Singapore-based SCDA Architects with interiors by leading Thai firm PIA Interior, is inspired by the glory days of Parisian art-deco.

The metro system in the French capital was a major inspiration for the bar, with replicas of cast iron detailing from the original Paris Metro integrated into the space and transformed into sculptural and decorative elements. 

The result is a compelling blend of European and Khmer influences.

“Phnom Penh is widely known for the vibrancy of its bar scene. Therefore we are proud that we can add something new to the mix with Metropole Underground,” said Herman Kemp, general manager of the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh. “The design team has done a marvelous job and we’ve got a great roster of live entertainment for guests to enjoy. When you step down into the basement it’s really like entering a different world.”

The new Metropole Underground completes a compelling lineup of options for revelry at the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh.

Indeed, with its range of bars encompassing everything from an intimate speakeasy-style cocktail spot to one of the city’s most exciting rooftop venues, the property is one of the best places in Phnom Penh to let down your hair.  

As conceptually intriguing as Metropole Underground is The Attic, an old-world speakeasy-style bar tucked away in the eaves of the Colonial House — a lemon-colored royal villa dating back to 1900 that is a centerpiece of the property. The bar specializes in handcrafted cocktails and grand cru wines.

Another social hotspot is FiveFive Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, spanning the rooftop on level 14. From here, guests will be treated to grilled seafood and meats, refreshing cocktails, and energizing DJ performances whilst soaking up inspiring views of the Royal Palace, the Mekong River, and the city skyline.

“We are adding different things to the table in terms of nightlife,” added Kemp. “As the city’s newest international branded luxury hotel, the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh, is ready to play its part in a post-pandemic renaissance.”

One Rep Global appointed India representative for The Legian Hotels in Indonesia

One Rep Global appointed India representative for The Legian Hotels in Indonesia 

Gurgaon (India), June 2022: One Rep Global, a luxury representation company led by seasoned hotelier Hemant Mediratta, has been appointed the India representative for The Legian Hotels in Bali – Indonesia.

The Legian Seminyak, Bali is one of the most renowned hotels in Indonesia. Opened in 1996 it has stood the test of time and is still the favourite choice for luxury travellers in Bali. Thanks to its unparalleled location on one of the island’s finest beaches, exceptional elevated positioning, 67 spectacular sea-facing suites and the three-bedroom The Beach House (the only private villa with direct beach access in Seminyak), this exclusive grande dame hotel, alongside its sister property The Club by The Legian Seminyak, Bali continues to attract the great and the good from around the world.

Managing Director and Partner, Hans Joerg Meier, Legian Hotel Management said ‘LHM is very proud to enter into cooperation with One Rep Global with its very experienced visionary leadership team within the industry. We are convinced that discerning luxury travellers from India will truly enjoy the culture and heritage of LHM hotels in Bali and Lombok, coupled with genuinely personalised and warm hospitality creating authentic experiences and memories to treasure.’

Hemant Mediratta, Founder – One Rep Global, shared ‘We take pride in representing some of the finest properties from across the globe, and it is an absolute pleasure to add The Legian Seminyak and soon-to-open The Legian Lombok to our portfolio. With eased restrictions, luxury outbound travel from India is picking pace and it is the perfect time to tap the undisputed potential of this market. At One Rep Global, we are excited to extend support and share our expertise to drive the desired sales and marketing results for LHM hotels.’

The Legian Seminyak, Bali is a suite and villa only boutique resort and home to some of the most sought after accommodation on the island. Every suite has unparalleled, sea-facing views and guests can choose from a variety of options – whether it’s a beachfront sanctuary for two or a multi-bedroom suite for groups of friends or families. There is also The Beach House – a three-bedroom villa with pool and one of only two villas in Bali with direct beach access. The Beach House can accommodate spectacular weddings and special events.

Those looking for the ultimate in exclusivity can opt to stay in super-chic The Club by The Legian Seminyak, Bali. Located adjacent to The Legian Seminyak, Bali’s main entrance, this private estate houses a 30-metre pool, private outdoor seating area and 13 private pool villas. It offers guests a range of benefits including a dedicated butler, private car service, laundry, daily afternoon tea, cocktails and canapés as well as complimentary in-room private bar.

One Rep Global will exclusively drive the sales and marketing efforts for these luxury properties in India.

Nobel’s brilliant minds to meet at Maraya AlUla

Nobel’s brilliant minds to meet at Maraya AlUla

Maraya, the architectural wonder of Arabia is the region’s exciting new events and conference venue in the heart of AlUla, the ancient desert city at the crossroads of civilizations

With millennia of history and cultural heritage plus newly-built accommodation, dining, nature, and adventure - AlUla will be the sought-after new destination for business events in the coming years.

AlUla, Saudi Arabia - Maraya, the multi-purpose event and conference centre located in AlUla, an ancient historical city in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, welcomed the largest gathering of world’s most creative minds at the 2nd Hegra Conference of Nobel Laureates & Friends from 3rd to 5th June 2022.

The event will bring together 13 Nobel laureates, including Lech Walesa, along with winners of the King Faisal, UNESCO for Women in Science, and Pulitzer prizes. The theme of the event is ‘New Openings: Decisive Moments for a Decisive Decade’ with a key outcome of the event a selection of 10 decisive actions to be taken over the next decade for humanity to thrive in the 21st century.

Maraya, which is translated in Arabic into “mirrors”, reflects the beauty of the stunning rock-strewn Ashar Valley, a landscape home to ancient kingdoms reaching back 7000 years. 

Designed by Italian Architects Gioforma, this architectural wonder was named the Guinness World Record’s largest mirrored building in 2020. 

A place of culture, commerce and function, Maraya, managed and operated by entertainment company Live Nation, has hosted international music events for world-renowned artists including Lionel Richie and Alicia Keys and Andrea Bocelli; contemporary art exhibitions and business events such as the GCC Summit of 2021 and the 1st Hegra Conference of Nobel Laureates & Friends in 2020. 

Maraya offers a 26-meter-high theatre with a capacity of 582 seats which face a giant retractable window of 800 square meters that can open to nature, seamlessly blending environment and entertainment.

In addition to the auditorium, Maraya consists of a ground and three upper floors, with flexible spaces and facilities. The ground floor offers two huge halls with a capacity of 500 and 600 persons respectively, with another hall that can host up to 200 persons. There are green rooms and a VVIP room with a capacity of 100 persons.

The 1st floor provides VVIP guests facilities with spaces from 75 to 100 persons and a VVIP Royal Suite with a capacity of 12 persons. While the 2nd floor offers the conferences facilities and spaces, starting from 50 and up to 300 persons, with a speaker room and a production space available.

The 3rd floor offers a luxury restaurant facility with an indoor capacity of 120 persons, an outdoor restaurant with a capacity of 80 persons, and a rooftop terrace with a space of 1005 SQM. The restaurant, Maraya Social, opened in October 2021 under the management of English Chef and restaurateur Jason Atherton. Atherton owns and runs three-Michelin-star restaurants across the world. The menu at Maraya Social is a mix of local pan Arabic dishes and European options. 

The historic city of AlUla has been at the crossroad of civilizations for millennia, and is now being revived as an important destination for trade, and the exchange of cultures and ideas. AlUla’s heritage and formidable scenery, lend themselves to great minds deliberating in a destination that fosters meaningful exchange and innovation. 

From Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra, to the AlUla Old Town, and the ancient sites of Dadan and Jabal Ikmah, AlUla offers a new destination steeped in ancient history for the meeting of minds.

As a brand-new destination for the global business events industry, AlUla offers an exciting and incredible new option for meeting planners with a range of authentic experiences for pre and post events. The city is well known for its rich stories, welcoming locals, stunning landscapes and a mix of outdoor and indoor spaces and places, which will inspire and engage business event visitors.

The city is home to a variety of restaurants from traditional and international cuisines available all year round, with vegetarian and vegan options on demand. 

For accommodation, AlUla is home to mesmerizing resorts that are set against the backdrop of the desert canyons and valleys. Habitas Resort is a sustainable home far from home in the Ashar Valley, the closest resort to Maraya. The Habitas ethos is to provide an immersive experience where nature inspires creative expression, human connection and the pursuit of adventure. Caravan by Habitas also offers unique accommodation in airstream RVs for those who like to be at one with nature. Habitas offers event setup at the Caravans by Habitas location, a glamping site surrounded by sandstone cliffs in the open air, which can be tailored to fit events.

While at Shaden Resort, which has recently been placed under the management of Accor, guests can choose from a variety of room types including 2 bedroomed villas with private pool. Spaces that can be offered for business events include a meeting room that fits up to 120 people, to PVC tents that can be temporarily built on different areas within the resort. Business luncheon and gala dinners can be hosted as well at Shaden’s Abdadyiah Restaurant. The resort, set in a desert canyon near elephant rock never fails to surprise and delight. 

More hotels are set to open in the coming months and years including the Banyan Tree AlUla Resort – a 5 star luxury property set into the environment in the Ashar Valley and opening in October 2022.

AlUla international airport receives weekly flights from Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam with a short travel time less than 2 hours. While the direct 2 weekly flights from Dubai makes AlUla an easy place to reach. Currently work is in progress to add more flight routes to the options to reach AlUla from major international airports, making AlUla more reachable and easier to access destination. 

AlUla offers a fascinating gateway to the rich culture of the Arabian Peninsula and will be a sought-after destination for leisure and business travel in the years to come. 

The Fern Hotels & Resorts celebrates World Environment Day across all its properties

The Fern Hotels & Resorts celebrates World Environment Day across all its properties

World environment day was celebrated across all the Fern hotels & resorts with great enthusiasm and fervour. All the hotels carried out different activities to motivate the staff as well as the guests to take care of the environment.

Some of the hotels opted for plantation drives, others carried out cleanliness drives, some hotels invited children to draw posters, and one of the properties organized a bicycle rally to create awareness about the importance of the day.  Potted plants were distributed to the guests at various hotels. The chefs also did their bit and carved an earth-shaped cake to spread awareness.

Noshir A Marfatia, senior VP, Sales & Marketing, The Fern Hotels & Resorts said. “It is a moment of great satisfaction for us. All the hotels voluntarily participated and planned different activities to create awareness. Our environment ethos has percolated down very well and each and every hotel under our portfolio is serious about improving the environment".

The Fern Hotels & Resorts is India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain and amongst the fastest growing hotel brands in India, with 88 hotels & resorts currently operational under management or opening shortly across 72 locations in India and internationally, under The Fern, The Fern Residency, Zinc by The Fern and Beacon Hotels brands. The company is a part of CG Corp Global, a multi-dimensional Nepalese conglomerate.

Sustainable Practices By Nourish Organics a Clean Food Company

Sustainability Practices by Nourish Organics

Today food companies are taking all measures to reduce not only their carbon footprint but its environmental impact across their entire supply chain. Sustainability has become a crucial value that more and more companies have embedded into their practices and operations.

At Nourish Organic, we believe we have a responsibility to both reduce our impact on the planet through our organic and sustainable practices, as well as give something back to the organizations who work hard to protect it.

Founded by Seema Jindal Nourish Organics is a clean food company that aims at making Nutrition that fits your lifestyle through sustainable, organic food with a wide range of wholesome, multi-grain breakfast cereals, nutrient-dense cookies, on-the-go snacks, seed & nut combinations and fruit+fibre based health bars. 

As a pioneer in clean-label packaged food, all Nourish Organics products are 100% natural, free of processed sugar, preservatives, genetically modified foods, trans-fats or artificial flavour. Each variant is made with locally sourced organic ingredients that are wholesome, rich in fiber, high on plant-based protein, and packed with essential fats, vitamins & minerals through a bounty of nuts, seeds & dried fruit. 

Sustainability is something that's always been important to us at Nourish Organics and we strongly believe that sustainability isn't just a trend—it's an ethos that guides our every action, from the moment we source our ingredients to the moment we package them up and send them out into the world.

Here are some of the ways we practice sustainability in our business:

Natural pest control: Instead of using harmful chemicals like pesticides or fumigants, we employ traditional methods like burning cow dung or neem leaves alongside chili peppers to ward off flies and mosquitoes without harming your health or polluting the air. High-frequency sound machines to ward off rodents are used.

Composting our waste: We compost all of our organic waste, including food scraps. By composting instead of sending it to the landfill, we reduce waste while also recycling nutrients back into the soil.

Donating our edible products: If there are foods that are still good but can't be sold because they don't meet our high standards for quality and freshness, we donate them to local shelters or food banks so they can be enjoyed by others in need. We've donated freshly made products stuck with us due to covid lockdowns. 

Frontline Performance Group and HM Corp Partner to Fuel Growth and Empower Hoteliers in Indian Hospitality Marketplace

Frontline Performance Group and HM Corp Partner to Fuel Growth and Empower Hoteliers in Indian Hospitality Marketplace 

Gurugram (India), June 2022: Frontline Performance Group (FPG), the world leader in frontline technology and training, today announced its partnership with HM Corp, a tourism and hospitality management advisory, led by seasoned luxury hotelier Hemant Mediratta, to deliver FPG’s groundbreaking software, powerful e-Learning, and superior champion certification program to the Indian hospitality marketplace.

“After years of work in India, we believe in its incredible potential, and we are honored to join forces with such a professional and reputable partner that extends distribution, access, and in-market sales resources,” said Paul McLoughlin, FPG President, International. “Whilst leveraging HM Corp for sales, FPG’s team will deliver all elements of our industry-leading platform and support services, our mission is to empower hotels throughout India to reach their greatest potential.”

Hospitality is among the top drivers of economic growth and foreign exchange in India; the country is ranked 10th in the world for its travel & tourism contribution to GDP (Source: World Travel & Tourism Council). By empowering hotels to deliver enhanced guest experiences, better-paid frontline employees, and thriving bottom lines, FPG and HM Corp hope to further fuel economic growth and accelerate post-pandemic recovery in India.

FPG’s performance management software application, IN-Gauge, empowers hotel teams at all levels—from the frontline, to on-property management, and above-property leadership—to measure performance, forecast revenue, audit sales, and train their teams with a comprehensive e-Learning library. The business supports the world’s leading hotel companies and ownership groups including Accor, Hilton, IHG, Marriott as well as numerous independent chains and properties. Programs are active in over a dozen languages within every level of the hotel chain, from city-center all-suite properties to luxury destination resorts.

“We are thrilled to deliver the world’s leading upsell training and technology solution to hotel owners and chains throughout India, enabling them to optimize returns, guest satisfaction and employee morale,” said Hemant Mediratta, Founder - HM Corp. “The FPG offering truly empowers people, which has been a critical need in the Indian and global marketplace.”

JW Marriott Debuts in Germany

A Haven of Inspired Luxury and Genuine Hospitality Awaits at JW Marriott Hotel Frankfurt

JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, has made its debut in Frankfurt, Germany with the opening of JW Marriott Hotel Frankfurt. With purposeful design, extraordinary service and a commitment to holistic well-being, the property offers an elevated stay in the city, encouraging guests to connect with the world around them and revitalize the mind, body and spirit.

“With each new opening, JW Marriott brings with it a legacy of luxury hospitality combined with the brand’s foundation of holistic well-being,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Travelers to the storied German city staying at JW Marriott Hotel Frankfurt will now have access to JW Marriott’s genuine service, comfortably modern design and of course guiding principles of a well-being lifestyle that can be seen and felt throughout the guest experience.”

Inspired Design
Each of the 219 guestrooms and suites features floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the sparkling city skyline and River Main, offering a moment of reflection. Directly connected to the shopping area Zeil, the hotel offers guests an unbeatable location just steps away from the heart of Frankfurt.

The hotel will soon complete a transformative renovation, bringing to life the JW Marriott brand’s serene sensibility married with modern technology catering to the sophisticated, mindful traveller. Combining thoughtful interiors and fashionable state-of-the-art amenities, the hotel is a serene retreat within the heart of the thriving metropolis.

Embracing local touches that encourage moments of reflection, JW Marriott Hotel Frankfurt has enlisted Hartwig Ebersbach, one of the most famous painters in Germany, to create 230 paintings which are delicately placed throughout the hotel. While the paintings are not for sale, guests can marvel at the depictions and inspirations that Hartwig Ebersbach gathered during his journeys around the globe.

Culinary Delights
JW Marriott Hotel Frankfurt embraces the brand’s focus on authentic and sustainable dining experiences with two concepts for guests. Located on the first floor, Max on One offers modern French cuisine with an Asian twist in a metropolitan atmosphere. Perfect for after dinner drinks, guests can enjoy Ember Bar & Lounge, a chic cocktail and champagne lounge with an extensive gin and wine list.

Furthering the brand’s commitment to nourishing the body as well as the spirit, JW Marriott Hotel Frankfurt produces its very own delicious honey from a colony of bees that reside on the hotel’s rooftop. The honey is served fresh from a honeycomb during breakfast while also being incorporated into delectable dishes served during lunch and dinner.

An Urban Sanctuary
JW Marriott Frankfurt is designed with guests’ well-being in mind. Guests of the hotel are encouraged to take a moment for themselves to truly discover the experiences that will leave them feeling revitalised and refreshed both during and after their stay.

Noesis Report summarises Airports and their Impact on the Hospitality & Overall Economy

Noesis Report summarises Airports and their Impact on the Hospitality & Overall Economy

Civil aviation minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia, addressed the Lok Sabha on 23rd, March 2022 requesting funds to open 80 new airports by 2025 as a part of the government's 'Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik' scheme. He made the arguments that 3.82 lakh passengers flew daily in the past seven days (from the date of the speech), domestic travel saw a rise to 8.38 crore in 2021 from the 2020s 6.3 crores, and that Indian companies in international freight have now reached 19% from the earlier 2% during the coronavirus pandemic limitations. 

Although his speech was tuned towards opening new airports and increasing connectivity according to the government scheme, the development of airports has proven to have significant impacts in the region they are constructed in. These include both economic and social benefits that generally end up coming with the construction of the airport and the advantages that may follow with the increased, domestic and international, connectivity. 

The implications of airports are mostly visible in four stages. 

a.   The primary effects, which are the short-term gains, mostly arise in the construction stage.

b.      The secondary effects – are the local economic benefits of operating the airport.

c.       Tertiary effect – that arises from the location becoming more visible and accessible at a macro level.

d.      The perpetuity effect revolves around the idea that economic growth once stated becomes self-sustainable. 

A good example of these effects was highlighted by the Chandigarh airport. The construction of the airport increased the output of the national economy by ₹3,105 crores, added ₹1,298 crores,s and created around 57,000 jobs. Similarly, the construction of The Chhatrapati Shivaji international airport in Mumbai increased the output of the national economy by ₹32,960 crores while adding ₹19,780 crores and generating 10, 98,000 jobs. 

The rise in connectivity, accessibility, and visibility then also leads to social benefits such as new trade possibilities, an increase in employment, travel options, and cultural awareness. These factors also act as tools to attract investments and build the tourism and hospitality industry. What creates a tourist hub differs in a variety of factors, but they all have one aspect in common and that is that they are easily accessible. Likewise with the hospitality industry. 

Airports across major cities of India have also seen a rise in passenger traffic in the last financial year. The recovery of passenger traffic from the lockdown of the pandemic is on the way with all key markets reaching closer to their 2019 demand. Air connectivity across the nation is a necessity in today’s world to allow a region to reach its true potential. 

Nandivardhan Jain, CEO of NOESIS said: “If 80 new airports by 2025 come, then this will give a massive boost to the hospitality sector as there will be demand for 25,000 more hotel rooms in these markets. Subject to concerned authorities successfully managing to plan & build hospitality districts around these airports, the effective implementation of local tourism programs at these destinations will lead to an opportunity to create millions of job opportunities. These proposed airports are an opportunity to strengthen local economies”.

Gemini Edibles & Fats India Limited (GEF India) donates delivery vehicle to Akshaya Patra for feeding 1 lakh children

Gemini Edibles & Fats India Limited (GEF India) donates delivery vehicle to Akshaya Patra for feeding 1 lakh children 

The vehicle, a part of Akshaya Patra’s Bengaluru kitchen, will help the NGO deliver 5,000 meals each day to children 

Bengaluru: May, 2022: In a bid to fight the global issue of child malnutrition, Gemini Edibles & Fats India Limited (GEF India) has donated a delivery vehicle to The Akshaya Patra Foundation in Bengaluru. The collaboration will support the NGO’s mission to eliminate child malnutrition in India and help transport nutritious mid-day meals to government schools in the region.

The vehicle that will be part of Akshaya Patra’s Hare Krishna Hill kitchen in Bengaluru will help the NGO deliver 5,000 meals each day to over 1 lakh children.

In 2020-21, GEF India partnered with Akshaya Patra to provide mid-day meals by donating six delivery vehicles. Reiterating their mission of eradicating child malnutrition, in the last one year, both organisations have joined hands again with GEF India donating five more vehicles in various regions including Hare Krishna Hill and Jigani in Karnataka and Mangalagiri in Andhra Pradesh.

The delivery vehicle donated to Hare Krishna Hill was flagged off in Bengaluru on 18th May 2022 in the presence of Mr. Prasanna, ASM - Karnataka, Gemini Edibles & Fats India Limited and Ms. Rajini Sinha, Regional Director, The Akshaya Patra Foundation.

Speaking on the association, Mr. P. Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils, said, “We, at Gemini, firmly believe that 'Food is a fundamental human right' and hence strive to work towards fulfilling this responsibility towards the society we live in. We are elated to join hands with The Akshaya Patra Foundation for the noble cause of providing nutritious meals to underprivileged students across India. We are donating delivery vehicles to reiterate our partnership with the Foundation and reach the larger goal of eliminating child malnutrition. This is our bit in giving back to the society.”

Expressing gratitude for the donation by GEF India, Mr. Sundeep Talwar, CMO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation, said, “For 21 years now, we’ve served nutritious meals to children with an aim to eradicate classroom hunger. Our missions that no child should be deprived of education due to hunger can only be achieved via such partnerships. This collaboration with GEF India will go a long way in expanding the reach of Akshaya Patra’s meals to thousands more students in Bengaluru.”

Visit Maldives | JUST VEG Celebration Is Back At Atmosphere Kanifushi

JUST VEG Celebration Is Back At Atmosphere Kanifushi

As plant-centric cuisines gain global popularity, this exclusive four-day culinary extravaganza allows guests to savour a limited-edition gourmet menu curated by JUST VEG restaurant along with Guest Chef Fabrizio Marino.

Travellers are far more conscious of their impact on the planet now, with environmentally conscious dining, meat alternatives, and nutritious plant-based cuisines gaining ground in the global culinary scene. There is a new energy, a new focus on vegetarian fine dining.

Way ahead of the curve, five-star resort Atmosphere Kanifushi has been home to the Maldives’ first exclusively meat-free restaurant, JUST VEG, since 2013. This exciting restaurant returns with the second edition of its unique culinary extravaganza. 

Celebrating contemporary plant-forward cuisine, the four-day event will be held from 27 - 30 July 2022, with lunch and dinner hosted by renowned Italian Chef Fabrizio Marino. 

Guests have a unique opportunity to savour finest Italian and French dishes while enjoying the restaurant’s brilliant turquoise ocean views. Fabrizio brings a rhythmic and playful table that blends traditional and modern food, with an authentic occidental focus. 

This exciting four-day JUST VEG culinary celebration is in line with Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts’ philosophy, ‘Joy of Giving’, and is included in the generous Kanifushi PlanTM — it is available to all guests staying at the resort. 

An Elevated Plant-Based Menu 

Chef Fabrizio Marino’s limited-edition menu comes from a deep knowledge of natural, vegetarian ingredients and a recognizable quality of simplicity. Each dish is a culmination of this painstaking creative process that ends on a high note of culinary delight. Service, music and language, every aspect is calibrated for a balanced experience. 

A glimpse of the menu that will be served at JUST VEG restaurant from 27 - 30 July 2022.

• Fresh tomato soup with avocado, strawberries, and fruit sorbet

• Italian and French cheese mousse with pear terrine and mustard

• Potato gnocchi topped with butter and sage and served with asparagus

• Risotto seasoned with parsley and a side of artichokes and olives (evoking the Tuscan tradition)

• Roasted mushrooms served with crunchy and soft polenta and aromatic sauteed chard 

• Refreshing lemon curd served with vanilla ice cream

Chef Fabrizio Marino says, “For several years now, I have been collaborating with the exciting JUST VEG restaurant. Meeting returning guests is always a delight and their smiles inspire me to excel each time. This year’s specially curated menu brings the restaurant’s focus back to subtle flavours through refreshing, Western dishes.”

Chef Fabrizio Marino is famous for Italian natural haute cuisine that is delicious, healthy and leaves an important ethical imprint. He has worked for many years with the well-known Chef Pietro Leemann, who gained the first Michelin Star for a vegetarian restaurant in 2015. Chef Fabrizio Marino recently launched Maggese, his revolutionary veg restaurant in the heart of Tuscany.

A short 35-minute sea plane ride from Malé International Airport brings guests to the ever-beautiful Atmosphere Kanifushi. Off the beaten track at a secluded edge of the Lhaviyani Atoll, is the pristine tropical getaway. The resort offers 162 stand-alone beach and water villas. With the premium holiday plan, Kanifushi PlanTM guests enjoy a hassle-free five-star resort experience. 

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About Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts

Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts is a dynamic and fast-growing international hospitality company. Currently, the company is operating six resorts within the Maldives and is set to further expand in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan. AH&R’s distinguished portfolio comprises THE OZEN COLLECTION, COLOURS OF OBLU, and By Atmosphere, with a rich diversity of experiences within each of these brands. The company had two new COLOURS OF OBLU resorts: OBLU SELECT Lobigili opened on 24 March 2022 and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi set to open on 19 May 2022.  

Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts Brand Websites: ATMOSPHERE / COLOURS OF OBLU / THE OZEN COLLECTION 

Awards | 25 hotels and resorts managed by Concept Hospitality win Trip Advisor’s Travellers Choice Award for the year 2022

25 hotels and resorts managed by Concept Hospitality win Trip Advisor’s Travellers Choice Award for the year 2022

As many as 25 Fern and Beacon hotels and resorts managed by Concept Hospitality have won the prestigious Trip Advisor’s Travellers Choice Award for the year 2022, Noshir A Marfatia, senior VP, Sales & Marketing, The Fern Hotels & Resorts said.

Congratulating the winning hotels, he said, “It is a moment of great pride when we receive the acknowledgment of our hospitality and services from our guests. It is a validation of the processes we have adopted that make our guests feel safe and secure.”

Giving the breakup of the awards he said, “Nine of our upscale The Fern hotels won this award, as did 15 of our mid-scale Fern Residency level hotels. And one of our smart, efficient Economy brands, Beacon Hotels, also received the award.”

The Fern Hotels & Resorts is India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain and amongst the fastest growing hotel brands in India, with 88 hotels & resorts currently operational under management or opening shortly across 72 locations in India and internationally, under The Fern, The Fern Residency, Zinc by The Fern and Beacon Hotels brands. The company is a part of CG Corp Global, a multi-dimensional Nepalese conglomerate.

QSR Chain 99 Pancakes Raises INR 6.5 cr To Fuel Expansion

QSR Chain 99 Pancakes Raises INR 6.5 cr To Fuel Expansion

-         Plans to open 25 outlets across India over the coming months

-         To venture in FMCG segment with pancake pre-mixes

Mumbai, May, 2022: Mumbai-headquartered quick service restaurant (QSR) chain 99 Pancakes has raised INR 6.5 crore in a round of funding through a group of angel investors. India’s first QSR chain specializing in pancakes is set to utilize the funding for aggressive expansion and marketing across India in the coming months. The brand which recently collaborated with leading kids’ entertainment channel, Cartoon Network to roll out a special summer menu for children will be further spreading its wings for such marketing associations.

Started by Mumbaikar Vikesh Shah in 2017, 99 Pancakes is a specialty QSR chain with 45 outlets operational across 14 cities - Mumbai, Surat, Pune, Varanasi, Indore, Jabalpur amongst others. The brand enjoys a dominant presence in Mumbai with 20+ outlets. This is the brand’s first round of funding and the company already has defined plans to consume the incoming funds to fuel country-wide expansion. 99 Pancakes plans to open 25 outlets, in the first phase and going ahead with more rounds of funding, it plans to penetrate in Tier 2 & 3 cities as well. The brand will follow the Company Owned Company Operated (COCO) and Franchise Owned Company Operated (FOCO) model to mark its presence all over the country. The brand will also soon enter the FMCG segment as well with the introduction of its first product as pancake premixes.

“In the last 5 years, 99 Pancakes has successfully carved a niche for itself in the QSR segment. We have grown steadily through the owned and franchise route so far. With this funding, we will steer ahead and expand our presence in Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai. To maintain the SOPs and experience of the ambience and menu, we wish to keep the operational functionality with us, however to penetrate the markets all across the country, we may adopt the institutional franchise route”, said Vikesh Shah, Founder, 99 Pancakes.

Vikesh further added, “With this funding we intend to enter the FMCG segment with pancake premixes. A part of these funds will also be utilised towards brand building and marketing. We have grown organically so far and we will now adopt a strategic approach towards brand positioning and visibility through a digital first approach.”

Naresh Kamath who invests in ace start ups said multiple factors induced him to invest in this project. “Since its inception, the brand has performed steadily and has continued expanding its footprints. Despite the setback in the last two years, the brand has not only managed to sustain but also has registered very good numbers especially since the restrictions were relaxed. The F&B industry is showing great promise in the country. I am confident about its management and expect it to become one of the most popular brands in the country within a couple of years.”

99 Pancakes, which is the pioneer in the pancakes QSRs in India, is currently present across 14 cities of the country including Mumbai, Pune, Surat, Lucknow, Indore, Hyderabad amongst others. The brand offers a 100% vegetarian menu, including the speciality pancakes. Besides this,, the menu offers a variety of Waffles, Crepes, Cakes, Pastries & Desserts, French Macarons, Chocolates, Croissants, Pizzas, Shakes, Coffee & other Beverages. Customers can dine-in, take-away or order delivery through Zomato and Swiggy. The brand also recently collaborated with Cartoon Network, and rolled out a special summer menu for children inspired by the popular cartoon characters like Ben10 and Tom & Jerry. In the past, it has also collaborated with Nickelodeon and SONY.

About 99 Pancakes

99 Pancakes is one of the leading QSR chains in India specializing in a variety of pancakes. The QSR started its first outlet at Kala Ghoda in Mumbai in 2017 and within a span of 5 years already has a presence in 14 cities across India with 45+ exclusive outlets.

99Pancakes has a USP of having open kitchens in all its outlets where the customers can experience the making of the pancakes, live. Another USP of the brand is that it serves Mini Holland Pancakes with a variety of toppings. Other than pancakes, the brand also has Waffles, Crepes, Cakes, Pastries & Desserts, French Macarons, Chocolates, Croissants, Pizzas, Shakes, and Coffee & Beverages on its menu.

Jewels of India at Hilton Chennai

Jewels of India at Hilton Chennai

Hilton Chennai welcomes you to join 'Jewels of India' a food festival, celebrating cuisines from the Royal

Kitchens of Kashmir, Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, Rampur, Awadh & Hyderabad.

Conceptualized by Chef Mothi in collaboration with Celebrated Chef Mujeeb-ur-Rehman, who holds an

experience of two decades, well versed with the nuances of many regional variations of Indian & Royal

cuisines.

Hilton Chennai aims to deliver pure ecstasy to their customers and to bring authenticity to the people

of Chennai. As our General Manager, Jameson Solomon says, “you don’t have to travel far off to taste the

different flavours of India, you can experience them under one roof in Chennai.”

Jewels of India takes place at Vasco’s from 16th to 25th May, 2022 for Lunch & Dinner Buffet.

Sustainable suitcase swaps: Booking.com’s guide to packing more mindfully

Sustainable suitcase swaps: Booking.com’s guide to packing more mindfully
With 94% Indians wanting to travel more sustainably, here’s a helpful packing guide with more mindful must-haves for your future travel

Mumbai, Tuesday, May 2022: With travel restrictions lifting, people are eager to get back out and experience the world again. While sun-drenched beach escapes with the family and romantic weekend getaways are firmly back on the calendar, many travellers are also thinking more responsibly about the impact of their trips. In fact, recent sustainable travel research commissioned by Booking.com reveals that travelling more sustainability is important to 94% of Indian travellers*. Additionally, 68% of Indian travellers say that recent news about climate change has been the impetus to make more sustainable travel choices.

However, travelling more sustainably starts before even leaving one’s home and by taking a more mindful approach to packing the proverbial bags. By carefully considering the contents, as well as packing a little lighter, travellers can keep their personal travel footprint to a minimum. Less weight means planes burn fuel more slowly and, with 36% of Indian travellers in the past year choosing to travel lighter, as a result, it’s a positive step towards reducing the carbon emissions associated with their trips. Even travellers escaping to their chosen destinations by train, car, bike, boat, or foot, can pack a few mindful essentials that will help them further minimize their impact. With that in mind and as Indian travellers get back to travelling this summer,Booking.com – one of the world’s leading digital travel platforms – shares a helpful packing guide with more mindful must-haves for this year’s sustainable suitcase.

Trusty eco-friendly toiletries

Bathroom cabinet contents have benefited from an eco-makeover in recent years, with more sustainable options now available in place of toiletries that use non-recyclable plastic. For those who are keen to pack lighter and more sustainably, there are game-changing shampoo and conditioner bars that don’t use plastic packaging and won’t weigh a case down.

For travellers planning to take to the water on their getaway, consider the sustainable credentials of the SPF too – particularly travellers who will be visiting and swimming in areas with sensitive ecosystems such as coral reefs. The chemicals in sunscreen can be harmful to the ocean and aquatic life, so ensure it’s labeled ‘reef-safe’ before it makes its way into the suitcase. Likewise, with mosquito repellent, some chemicals can be damaging to the planet, so consider switching to a natural option that uses citronella or peppermint instead to keep the bugs away. These simple switches are a great option for the 58% of Indian travellers who consider preserving the wildlife and natural habitats of their chosen destinations a key part of sustainable travel.

Embrace zero waste

It’s no secret that limiting single-use plastic is one of the greatest environmental challenges faced, with an estimated 91% of plastic currently not recycled and ending up in the ocean or landfill. Travellers can make some simple swaps when packing, thinking about what reusable items they might need on their travels. Many global travellers are already considering dinner time sustainable swaps, with 75% Indian travellers planning to be more conscious about their food consumption while travelling, such as choosing more vegan or vegetarian options or eating organic/locally sourced foods. But it can also be more than what's on the plate. If eating at a food market or dining on street food, then drop in some bamboo cutlery to avoid the single-use ones on offer. Sampling the local cocktail selection? Pack a metal straw and BYO to the bar. For those planning to do some shopping? Pack a tote bag to carry purchases. Thinking ahead about the reusable switches when travelling means travellers will naturally pack more mindfully.

Travellers can also make sustainable swaps while staying hydrated too. Instead of purchasing single-use plastic bottles of water during trips, consider a stainless steel alternative, which can be used for years, and keep it topped up with drinking water wherever possible. For those venturing to destinations where the water might not be safe to drink, or those relying on natural water sources on camping and hiking trips, there are eco-friendly options too. Consider water purification tablets or a UV-light purifier - a small, lightweight wand-like item that emits UV light to destroy bacteria, viruses, and protozoa (parasites) in water.

Sustainable style

For some people, having a vacation ‘outfit of the day’ (OOTD) is even more important to them than picking what to wear at home. But that’s not to say that the OOTD can’t be a sustainable choice. Avoiding fast fashion is an advised way to shop for our latest garments, but sustainability-savvy travellers can also pack mindfully too. Avoid over-packing by thinking about those versatile wardrobe staples that can be worn a few times over. Or take a color-coordinated approach, so more of the clothes mix and match and work well together. If travelling for a longer period of time, consider packing lighter and doing laundry on the move. Many places to stay have a laundry service available or are often close to a laundry facility. There are a plethora of eco-friendly laundry options available these days, from detergent sheets and strips to refillable options to switch to at home and decanter a small amount for travel. These options mean a lightweight option to pack, but also completely reduce plastic packaging.

Whether a consciously sustainable traveler like the 45% of Indian travellers now bringing their own products to minimize their impact or just looking for a few smart swaps to be more mindful during their next trip, thinking about what goes into the suitcase is a great way to have a more positive impact on the environment even before the actual travelling begins.

Methodology

*Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of 30,314 respondents across 32 countries and territories (1,000 from USA, 958 from Canada, 1,009 from Mexico, 1,001 from Colombia, 1,003 from Brazil, 1,017 from Argentina, 1,000 from Australia, 486 from New Zealand, 998 from Spain, 1,003 from Italy, 996 from France, 495 from Switzerland, 980 from the UK, 998 from Germany, 1,014 from the Netherlands, 991 from Belgium, 985 from Denmark, 984 from Sweden, 964 from Croatia, 976 from Russia, 1,008 from Israel, 1,002 from India, 1,004 from China, 925 from Hong Kong, 1,006 from Thailand, 988 from Singapore, 1,002 from Taiwan, 1,004 from Vietnam, 1,004 from South Korea, 1,003 from Japan, 1,006 from South Africa and 504 from Kenya ). In order to participate in this survey, respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have traveled at least once in the past 12 months and must be planning to travel in 2022, and be either the primary decision maker or involved in the decision making of their travel. The survey was taken online and took place in February 2022.

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives Opens in the Scenic Raa Atoll

The all-pool-villa sanctuary provides guests with a luxurious island escape surrounded by abundant marine life, clear blue waters and lush vegetation

CHICAGO (May, 2022) – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the opening of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, a private island retreat located in the picturesque Raa Atoll at the northern edge of the Maldives. The all-pool-villa resort offers a refreshing blend of serenity and discovery in a relatively untouched corner of the archipelago renowned for its abundant marine life.

“As countries continue to open up and travel confidence grows, we look forward to welcoming guests from all over the world to Alila Kothaifaru Maldives for a memorable getaway in what we hope will become the centerpiece of Raa Atoll,” said David Udell, group president, Asia-Pacific, Hyatt. “We are delighted to add this beautiful resort in the Maldives to our growing Alila portfolio, with new Alila hotels opening in sought-after destinations such as Suzhou and Shanghai in China and Nha Trang in Vietnam in the future.”

Surrounded by Nature’s Wonders

Housed on a 27.6 acre  (11.2 hectare) island, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives can be reached via a 45-minute seaplane journey from Malé. As one of the deeper atolls in the archipelago, the Raa Atoll offers abundant snorkeling and diving options to discover its rich marine life, from colorful corals to manta rays and sharks. The resort offers easy access to the famous Hanifaru Bay UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and is close to Vaadhoo Island, one of the best spots to witness the spectacular ‘Sea of Stars’ phenomenon. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives features white-sand beaches overlooking the infinite expanse of ocean blue, a stunning house reef and lush greenery.

Private Island Sanctuary

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives offers 80 pool villas, of which 44 are along the beach and 36 are perched overwater with direct access to the sea. Guests can unwind in these understated, sophisticated spaces that balance privacy with openness to the outdoors. Each villa comes with a private pool and sun deck where guests can bask in picture-perfect views and enjoy personalized service whether they are staying steps from the beach or above the turquoise lagoon. The Sunrise Beach Villas offer early birds captivating views to start their day alongside quick access to the resort’s main facilities such as the infinity pool, Play Alila kids’ club, Seasalt restaurant and Mirus Bar.

The resort’s elegant minimalist architecture by Singapore-based Studiogoto encompasses terraced pavilions, villas and a treetop spa that are carefully integrated into the existing landscape to immerse guests in the picturesque natural surroundings. The low-rise structures and contemporary interiors feature open-air spaces and a calming palette of island-inspired colors and textures, creating an idyllic setting for complete relaxation and connection with nature.

Immersive Culinary Journeys

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives offers a delightful variety of culinary experiences including:

• Seasalt, the resort’s beachside all-day dining restaurant with an ocean view, serves coastal Mediterranean cuisine with Middle Eastern influences. Not to be missed are the restaurant’s signature salt-baked fish dishes.

• A spectacular Maldivian sunset alongside a refreshing selection of cocktails at Mirus Bar inspired by the region’s former spice trade routes and concocted with ingredients from the resort’s own herb garden.

• Umami offers Japanese-inspired menus prepared in a teppan theater with a premium selection of organically grown vegetables, Wagyu beef and sustainably sourced fish and seafood. The adjourning Yakitori Bar is the place to be to indulge in sundowners, from Asian-inspired craft cocktails and mocktails to fine Japanese sakes and spirits, amidst delicious smoky aromas from a robata grill.

• Pibati Café provides light bites and comfort food that are convenient for grab-and-go en route to an excursion.

• Guests dreaming of an ultimate castaway experience can set sail in a traditional Maldivian dhoni on a two to three-hour journey around the Raa Atoll before returning to the resort’s private sandbank, The Shack, a secluded spot for a gourmet picnic, a sunset barbecue or a romantic candlelit dinner under the stars.

Haven for Relaxation

Nestled just above the treetops, Spa Alila features four double treatment suites, all with a private bathroom, shower and a floor-to-ceiling window with verdant views. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and beauty rituals that put a contemporary spin on ancient healing techniques and draw on the benefits of natural ingredients. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary daily yoga session in a tranquil outdoor space within the spa. The resort also offers a 24-hour fitness center and a beachfront infinity pool.

A wide range of water activities and excursions organized through the expert marine guides at the resort’s Water Sports and Dive Center are also available while Play Alila, a dedicated play and learning space for young guests will keep them entertained with toys, games and fun, supervised indoor and outdoor activities.

Bespoke Celebrations

From barefoot chic to elegant sophistication, couples can tie the knot or renew their vows with an enchanting celebration set in tropical splendor, whether on a pristine palm-fringed beach with the glistening ocean as a backdrop or on the private sandbank at sunset followed by a bespoke dinner under the stars.

“We are honored to welcome guests to one of the world’s most blissful destinations and we look forward to sharing with them the awe-inspiring nature that surrounds us,” said Alexandre Glauser, general manager, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. “Here at our all-pool-villa sanctuary, guests can unwind in peaceful seclusion with charming views while our gracious hosts deliver personalized experiences leading to unique moments and treasured memories.”

Guided by its purpose of care, Hyatt’s multi-layered Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment further enhances its operational guidance and resources around colleague and guest safety and peace of mind. More information on Hyatt’s commitment can be found here: hyatt.com/care-and-cleanliness.  

For more information about Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, please visit: alilahotels.com/kothaifaru-maldives.

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

For further information:

About Alila

The hallmark of Alila hotels is the combination of innovative design and luxury in unique locations, set apart by an unprecedented level of private space, crafted artisanship, personalized hospitality, and bespoke journeys. Alila means “Surprise” in Sanskrit, which suitably describes the refreshing character of our properties and impressions of our guests when they stay with us. In support of sustainable tourism, Alila hotels adopt EarthCheck operating standards, integrating the natural, physical and cultural elements of their environments. To stay at any Alila hotels and resorts is to embark on a destination experience – be it in recreating the flavors of the local cuisine, enhancing your well-being through ancient healing arts or the thrill of adventure sports, you will re-discover the luxury of living at Alila hotels. For more information visit, alilahotels.com, follow us on Instagram @AlilaHotels or like us on Facebook.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of March 31, 2022, the Company’s portfolio included more than 1,150 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 71 countries across six continents. The Company's offering includes the Park Hyatt®, Miraval®, Grand Hyatt®, Alila®, Andaz®, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®, Destination by Hyatt™, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt®, Hyatt Ziva™, Hyatt Zilara™, Thompson Hotels®, Hyatt Centric®, Caption by Hyatt, JdV by Hyatt™, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Place®, UrCove, and Hyatt Residence Club® brands, as well as resort and hotel brands under the AMR™ Collection, including Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Vivid Hotels & Resorts®, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Sunscape® Resorts & Spas. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.

PRIDE HOTELS TO EXPAND ITS FOOTPRINTS TO 100 HOTELS BY 2030

PRIDE HOTELS TO EXPAND ITS FOOTPRINTS TO 100 HOTELS BY 2030

Pride Group of Hotels which presently has 44 properties nationally has embarked on an ambitious expansion plan to open 100 hotels by 2030. Once the new hotels are operational, Pride Group will have 100 properties with over 10,000 keys spread across various geographical regions, primarily in tier 1 and tier 2 markets. The focus is on an asset-light model for expansion with a major slice of the portfolio managed directly by the company. Most of the new properties will be located in popular leisure destinations with great tourism potential.

Announcing the developments Mr. SP Jain, Chairman and Managing Director, Pride Hotels Limited, said “Subsequent to the challenges due to the pandemic in the past two years we are now witnessing exponential growth. While we will have 50 properties by the end of this year we plan to expand our footprints nationally by doubling our portfolio to 100 hotels by 2030. With the market gaining rapid momentum we will soon come back to expansion mode for our flagship properties. The Pride Group performed exceedingly well in 2021-2022 compared to 2020-2021. The ADR and occupancy have gone up from 43% to 65% for the current year 2022-2023. We are expecting to clock a turnover of Rs. 250 crores this fiscal year”.

The new portfolio includes resorts and hotels in the cities of Nainital, Jim Corbett, Jabalpur, Daman, Rishikesh, Surendranagar, Dwaraka, Bhavnagar, Bharuch, Agra, Somnath, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Neemrana, Rajkot, Bhopal, Aurangabad, and Haldwani. Pride Group has also forayed into the premium service apartment space with the launch of its new brand ‘Pride Suites’, with the first property signed in Gurugram.

Currently, Pride Hotels operates and manages a chain of hotels under the brand name “Pride Plaza Hotel” an Indian Luxury Collection, “Pride Hotel” which are conveniently centrally located upscale business hotels, “Pride Resorts” at mesmerizing destinations and Mid-Market segment hotels for every business “Pride Biznotel”. All four brands are well appreciated and frequented by corporate clients, domestic and foreign tourists. Pride Hotel is a homegrown brand that resonates with true Indian hospitality. The group’s vision is to establish Pride Hotels as the best Indian Hospitality chain.

Visit: www.pridehotel.com

Trends | SATTVIK WEDDINGS AT WELCOMHOTEL KATRA

SATTVIK WEDDINGS AT WELCOMHOTEL KATRA

Located in the heart of the divine city Katra, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels Katra has 83 well-appointed rooms overlooking the Trikuta Hills home to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. Just 45 kilometres away from the Jammu airport, the hotel is an idyllic destination nestled in the lush green valleys with panoramic views. Amidst the pine trees, breathtakingly beautiful landscape, the hotel stands tall like a crown jewel of Katra city.

Welcomhotel Katra has opened new horizons for weddings and MICE in this holy city of India. The hotel offers an ideal indoor and outdoor space for events, weddings and celebrations with a seamless pillar-less banquet hall of 225 sq mt that can accommodate up to 250 guests opening into a dedicated pre function area & outdoor gardens.  

The picturesque and scenic backdrop, complimented with the culinary strengths of ITC Hotels, are an ideal combination to curate memorable experiences during weddings and wedding related events. Local delicacies like Kalahari Cheese, Rajma, Ambal, Shingare ki Kadhi, Mewe ka Kofta and Tumba Ajwain Aloo etc. will take guests on an expedition of this rich, Sattvik cuisine. 

River rafting features high on the itinerary of honeymooners. Katra has one of the best rafting stretches in the region with its fifteen-kilometer-long stretch bordered by lush green surroundings in the white waters of Chenab that is 24 kilometers from the hotel. Moreover, Bhimgarh Fort, 20 kilometers from the hotel, and hot springs, 5 kilometers away are also favoured by the tourists and honeymooners to explore. The special honeymoon package at Welcomhotel Katra offers romantic settings in privacy of one’s room.

Welcomhotel Katra is the base camp for those couples wanting to partake of the region’s picturesque attractions, including Patnitop which is just 85 kilometres by road from the hotel and the route to the hill station is truly poetic with the beautifully lined pine and cedar trees. Nathatop, 10 kilometers from Patnitop, and Sanasar, 10 kilometers from Nathatop, are two other nearby attractions where adventure activities take place and guests can revel in the nature.

Welcomhotel Katra offers a quintessential ITC Hotels culinary experience with signature dishes on offer at its two restaurants, WelcomCafe and Dough and Co. The WelcomCafe serves the best of gourmet flavours in international and regional vegetarian cuisine - it’s one of a kind in its offerings and the finest in Katra. Dough & Co. offers a range of teas and coffees with short eats to go with them with some mesmerising views of the valley and Trikuta Hills.

The WelcomSthalika represents regional fare from Jammu region, and is prepared in Sattvik style bringing out the flavors predominant in Katra and adjoining areas. Some of these local preparations are Jammu Rajma, Ambal, Shingare ki Kadhi, Mewe ka kofta and Tumba ajwain aloo.  The curated menu uses locally grown ingredients like Jammu Rajma, walnuts, almonds, badi masala, tumba ajwain, shahi zeera, saunf, sonth and more in traditional style. 

While the mere mention of Katra brings to fore images of the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi, there is much more to this high point destination. Welcomhotel Katra is a destination that offers a gleeful experience to the discerning traveller with interests ranging from pure spirituality to celebration events, rest and rejuvenation in this holy city.

About Welcomhotel: www.itchotels.com/welcomhotel:

Welcomhotel is a collection of premium hotels designed for those who demand more and seek bespoke experiences to make the most out of their stay, optimizing their travel intent. With an endeavour to provide immersive and enriching experiences, the brand is reflective of the warmth of Indian culture while upholding the benchmark service standards that ITC Hotels is known for. From curated journeys that enhance leisure trips, to those that help maximize the efficiency of business stays, at WelcomHotel, every effort is made to add value to the new-age traveller.  It is this vision that helps enrich the lives of the guests, the community, and our hotel associates through integrated efforts and holistic initiatives. ITC Hotels manages and owns many hotels under the Welcomhotel brand including Welcomhotel Chail, Welcomhotel Shimla, Welcomhotel Sheraton New Delhi, Welcomhotel Mussoorie, Welcomhotel Jodhpur, Welcomhotel Fort & Dunes, Khimsar, Welcomhotel Visakhapatnam, Welcomhotel Mammalapuram, Welcomhotel Coimbatore, WelcomhotelPahalgam, WelcomhotelKatra, Welcomhotel Amritsar, Welcomhotel Bay Island (Port Blair), Welcomhotel Dwarka (New Delhi) and Welcomhotel Guntur. 

About ITC Hotels:

ITC Hotels is the largest chain of hotels in the World, which has maximum number of LEED Platinum Certified Properties. Continuing with its Planet Positive Promise, ITC Hotels launched Sunya Aqua or zero-kilometre water in glass bottles across the chain over a decade back and have taken this lead further and pioneered the mitigation of single use plastic from its operations pan India. While ITC Windsor is the first hotel in the world to achieve LEED Zero Carbon Certification, ITC Grand Chola is the largest hotel in the world to achieve the LEED Zero Carbon Certification.  ITC Gardenia is the third hotel in world to receive the LEED Zero Carbon Certification.

Initiative | Signum Hotel Academy partners with Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) to train entry level workforce for hospitality

Signum Hotel Academy partners with Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC)

to train entry-level workforce for hospitality

New Delhi, May 2022: Signum Hotel Academy, an educational initiative by Signum Hotels & Resorts, has partnered with Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) to conduct THSC-approved hospitality courses. The affiliation aims to create a pool of talent for entry-level positions in hospitality that is facing a crunch of human resources in current times.

The THSC-approved courses will impart theoretical knowledge as well as on-the-job training in key operational areas of a hotel including the Front Office, Food & Beverages, Food Production, and Housekeeping. Signum Cityscapes Mohali has also been approved as the on-the-job training center for practical exposure.

Commenting on the affiliation, Mehul Sharma, Founder – of Signum Hotels & Resorts said, ‘The pandemic had stalled hospitality hiring and training, and drove away interested students from opting a career in this sector. With business reviving, hiring has also re-started but now there is a shortage of skilled talent. We are happy to partner with THSC in our shared vision to create more skilled manpower for the industry.’

On the THSC-approved courses being offered at Signum Hotel Academy, Mehul further added, ‘our courses follow a focused approach so the student spends time in learning and training in their core area of interest. This also fast tracks learning and absorption of talent in the workforce.’

Shilpa Dikshiit, Head - of Signum Hotel Academy said, ‘THSC partnership will add further credibility to the courses and will enhance program enrolments further. Our courses offer the ideal balance of theoretical knowledge and practical exposure.’

Rajan Bahadur, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) said, ‘We welcome Signum Hotels to our Training Partner network. THSC is committed to creating a robust and sustainable ecosystem for skill development in the industry to fulfill the manpower requirements and bridge the gap. With Signum Hotel Academy we will expand our reach with a common aim to develop skilled talent for hospitality and other sub-sectors of the industry.’

Three-month courses offered at Signum Hotel Academy are as follows:

·        Soft Skills Training

·        Food & Beverage Service

·        Commis Chef

·        Front Office Associate

·        Guest Service Associate (Housekeeping)

Signia by Hilton San Jose debuts as Silicon Valley’s largest and most distinctive hotel

Signia by Hilton San Jose debuts as Silicon Valley’s largest and most distinctive hotel

SAN JOSE, Calif. – (April 2022) – Today, Hilton (NYSE: HLT) announces the opening and conversion of Silicon Valley’s largest hotel with the debut of Signia by Hilton San Jose, representing Signia by Hilton’s first hotel in California. The hotel is the second in the brand portfolio following Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek’s debut in 2021. Owned by Eagle Canyon Capital, the stylish 805-room premier hotel offers a sought-after location to stay and connect with cultural tastemakers and business leaders in one of California’s most inventive cities. The boldly redesigned hotel features a never-before-seen lobby and intriguing bar and is undergoing a modernization of its Main Tower which is set for completion in early 2023.

“We are delighted to welcome Signia by Hilton to San Jose, a city that is synonymous with innovation. The hotel’s debut strengthens the city’s positioning as a leading destination for some of the most prominent meetings and social events,” said Danny Hughes, executive vice president and president, Americas, Hilton. “Regarded as the center of tech-ingenuity, San Jose offers the perfect location to expand Hilton’s California presence, which is an integral part of our robust strategy in our largest growing market within the U.S.”

Reflecting the luminary spirit of Silicon Valley, Signia by Hilton San Jose blends modern grandeur with sophisticated style and offers an exceptional location. Located within walking distance of the San Jose Convention Center, the hotel is ideally situated on Plaza de César Chávez Park and surrounded by Fortune 500 companies. The property is located near some of the city’s most renowned cultural venues, including the San Jose Museum of Art, Tech Museum of Innovation, San Jose State University and Opera San Jose as well as sports and entertainment venues like SAP Center and Levi's Stadium. Signia by Hilton San Jose guests can also enjoy the Pacific Ocean coast and some of the state’s world-class wineries, just a little over 30 miles away. 

“The debut of Signia by Hilton San Jose marks a significant milestone for the expansion of this dynamic brand and this hotel offers an elevated experience with exceptional full-service amenities to serve all types of travelers,” said Matt Schuyler, chief brand officer, Hilton. “The property encapsulates the inventive spirit of Silicon Valley and this innovative new brand, from its world-class design and inspiring meetings and events offerings to imaginative culinary programming and premium wellness offerings. Signia by Hilton San Jose serves as the ideal destination to bring together sophisticated business, leisure and group travelers from around the globe.”

“We are excited to open our doors and introduce the San Jose community to a new era for this landmark property which will serve as a cultural anchor within our city,” said Sam Hirbod, president & chief executive officer, Eagle Canyon Capital. “Signia by Hilton San Jose will offer a place to see and be seen and we are delighted to welcome back some of the city’s most influential tastemakers and once again, become a hub for both locals and guests in the heart of downtown.” 

REPORT OF NAAC PEER TEAM VISIT @BCIHMCT, NEW DELHI

REPORT OF NAAC PEER TEAM VISIT @BCIHMCT, NEW DELHI

A National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) Peer Team visited Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology during May 04 –May 05, 2022 for the reaccreditation of the BCIHMCT for the 3rd cycle . NAAC Peer Team comprised of Dr J.P.Sharma Vice Chancellor  M L Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan ((Chairman, NAAC Peer Team), Dr. Bivraj Bhusan Parida Professor, Department of Tourism Management, The University of Burdwan, West Bengal ((Member Coordinator, NAAC Peer Team) and Prof. Amar Zachariah Cherian, PRINCIPAL, Sarosh Institute of Hotel Administration, Mangalore, Karnataka (Member, NAAC Peer Team) visited the institute in connection with Assessment and Accreditation.

Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology aims at enhancing the education quality through various learner centric methods, which provides practical meaning to Learning Outcome Based Education for the students of hospitality.

Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, affiliated to Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University has voluntarily taken the lead, went ahead and invited the members of NAAC – National Assessment and Accreditation Council, an Autonomous institution of the University Grants Commission, for assessment of quality of its Institution of Hotel Management and Catering Technology for getting it accredited as an institution imparting quality education in its state of the art infrastructure. Previously, the Institution has been accredited on a seven-point scale at A Grade with CGPA of 3.13. The certificate of accreditation was presented to the heads of accredited institutions during NAAC Accreditation Awards Ceremony convened in Bangalore.

 During the welcome address by Principal Prof. R K Bhandari, he highlighted the role of BCIHMCT in shaping the careers of budding hospitality professionals through appropriate academic and modern methods of teaching and learning. The focus of Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology has always been to empower and enrich the new generations of hoteliers and to contribute to the future of the hospitality sector.

 He welcomed the dignitaries and thanked the NAAC PEER TEAM for their valuable suggestions and hoped that everyone in the institution would strive for taking the college to greater heights by their dedicated work. Speaking on the occasion of the Exit Meeting, Dr J.P.Sharma Vice Chancellor  M L Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan ((Chairman, NAAC Peer Team) shared his observations with the staff and students. He was happy by the work carried out by BCIHMCT and noted that the college is making steady progress in becoming college of excellence in the near future. Finally, the chairman presented the exit report of re-accreditation to the principal and IQAC coordinator of the college.

 The two day visit of The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) Peer Team visit was concluded with an exit meeting held in the BANQUET HALL of College premises on Thursday 5th May 2022 at 5.00 pm