Karnataka hosts an exclusive “Karnataka Tourism Roadshow” at Panaji, Mumbai & Pune

Bengaluru, November 2022: Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka in a bid to promote the State as the most sought out tourist destination in the Country Hosted a series of Roadshows at Panaji, Mumbai & Pune on 21st November 2022, 23rd November 2022 & 24th November 2022 respectively. These series of roadshows are organized along with Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (KSTDC) is aimed to increase domestic footfalls into the State from Goa & Maharashtra. 


The Roadshow held in Mumbai was inaugurated by Sri. Kapil Mohan, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Tourism, Govt. of Karnataka along with Mr. Sudhir Patil, NKCCA & Ms. Ishrat Patel, ADTOI. Similarly, the roadshow at Panaji was inaugurated by Mr. H.P. Janardhana, Joint Director (Promotion & Publicity), Department of Tourism, Govt. of Karnataka, Mrs. Indiramma, General Manager-Finance, KSTDC along with Mr. Sainath Krishna Prabhu, Chairman - TAAI (Goa Chapter), Mr. Martin Joseph, Chairman - IATO (Goa Chapter), Mr. Nilesh Shah, President, TTAG & Mr. Ishrat Alam, India Tourism. Pune roadshow was inaugurated by Mr. Mehboob Shaikh, Chairman, TAAI, Mr. Amit Gupta, Director, TAAP, Mr. Deepak Pujari, President, TAAP, Mr. Santosh Khawale, Chairman, ETAA - Pune Chapter.

A performance of 'Veeragase Kunitha’, an ancient art form of Karnataka was organised to showcase the vibrant cultural heritage that Karnataka is known for. The roadshow brought together different aspects of Karnataka tourism such as nature, wildlife, adventure, pilgrimage, heritage, and many more.

Mr. Devaraj A, Director, Department of Tourism said, “Karnataka is home to a large and exciting portfolio of globally acclaimed tourist attractions like UNESCO World Heritage sites, splendid wildlife and resplendent nature, virgin beaches etc. It is an around the year tourist destination. The roadshow series will provide impetus to domestic inbound travel and would enhance the marketing efforts of Karnataka Tourism to promote the state's destinations to prospective tourists and the travel trade of Goa and  Maharashtra."

With a vast range of tourism landscapes such as archaeology, religion, ecotourism, wildlife etc to offer the State offers innumerable experience to vivid travelers. Through these one-day roadshows.  The main objective behind the event was to Promoting the state as a tourist attraction for leisure tourism, MICE - meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions, adventure and wildlife tourism and as a wedding destination. 

Mr. G. Jagadeesha, IAS, Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation said, “Karnataka with its diverse range of tourism products is fast emerging as one of the most interesting and productive states for both leisure and business travel. Domestic tourism being the backbone of the tourism economy has a lot of potential which needs to be tapped. Post-pandemic, these roadshow activities will be an excellent occasion for our stakeholders to renew contacts with the travel-trade as well as tourists'.”

The roadshow had B2B interactions and presentations that showcased the destination and also opened up new avenues to showcase Karnataka in a new light to the travel and trade community. Some of the stakeholders, who exhibited at the roadshow included Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation, Jungle Lodges & Resorts, Intersight Tours & Travels Pvt Ltd, TGI Hotels & Resorts, Mysuru Taxiwala, Birchwood Retreat, Mysore International Travels, Whistling Woodzs Jungle Resort, Gamyam Classical Ayurveda & Yoga Retreat, Travel India Company, AB Travels, Royal Orchid Hotels & many more. This exclusive B2B Roadshow had over 20 stakeholders from Karnataka and many discerning trade partners at each city.

About Karnataka: Karnataka – One State, Many Worlds, is well known for silk, milk, coffee, honey and more is home to several forts, architectural marvels and is blessed with a rich cultural heritage. Other diverse visitor attractions include pilgrim sites, coastal landscapes and wildlife/national parks. The state offers a variety of tourism attractions that cater to the demand from different visitor segments, such as eco-tourism, wellness tourism and adventure tourism. Over the years Karnataka has emerged as one of the most sought after tourism destinations in the country, and also created a space for itself, in the international tourism circuit. As of 2019, the State was ranked as the third preferred destination among domestic tourists for 3 consecutive years.


New Launch Sinclairs Yangang a boutique hotel in South Sikkim

A boutique hotel in Yangang- A charming town in south Sikkim

Sinclairs Hotels is pleased to announce the launch of its latest property at Yangang. After Chalsa in Dooars, this is the second initiative by Sinclairs to bring an unknown yet beautiful destination in the tourism map of India.

Spread over one acre of land, Sinclairs Yangang is a Luxury boutique hotel overlooking the serene and charming beauty of Maenam hills, popularly known as Bhaley-Dunga, the hotel is close to the main Rangrang road which is just 55 kilometers from Gangtok. The cozy boutique hotel has 18 rooms including three spacious suites. The three Premier Rooms with private balconies have a breathtaking view of the mountains. The intimate location makes it ideal for honeymooners, and those looking for a getaway from the city hustle. Solo travelers will also enjoy a staycation here.

The hotel's multi-cuisine restaurant 'Saffron' offers unique culinary experiences to the guests and provide a joyride to their taste buds with authentic local cuisine.

Why you will love Yangang?

Yangang is truly every nature lover’s dream. Sitting beautifully between rolling mountains and dense green forests, Yangang is a must-visit for holidaymakers who wish to enjoy laid-back living.

Yangang is popular among adventure sports enthusiasts. Adventure sports offerings in the area include hiking, mountain biking and trekking.

Other nearby tourist attractions are the Chardham at Namchi, Buddha Park in Ravangla and Temi Tea Estate, Khangchendzonga Waterfalls, Sewaro Rock Garden, Rimbi Waterfall, and Rabdentse Ruins.

Yangang will see a surge in tourism as two ambitious projects of passenger ropeway and skywalk at Bhaleydhunga cliff will soon be operational. The ropeway will connect Dhapper at Upper Yangang to the famous Bhaleydhunga cliff. It will be a lifetime experience for travelers to enjoy the spectacular beauty of the mountains and valleys from the steepest altitude. The first station of the ropeway is located at 1,810 m altitude while the top station is at a staggering height of 3,158 m.

 

About us:

Sinclairs Hotels Limited owns and operates nine properties in India at Burdwan, Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Dooars in West Bengal, Gangtok and Yangang in Sikkim, Ooty in South India, and Port Blair in the Andamans. Sinclairs also offers excellent venues for holding conferences, meetings, and seminars in these locations.

The Creative Reimagination of Travel: Booking.com reveals its 7 predictions for 2023


In 2023, nothing will be off-limits and everything is on the menu as everyone seeks to find the right balance in a world of contradictions

 

Key Highlights:

  1. Preppers in Paradise: 64% of Indian travellers are looking for ‘off grid’ style vacations to escape from reality and user travel as an opportunity to learn survival skills or even prepare for an apocalypse.

  2. Virtual Voyagers: 70% of Indian travellers are keen to embark on a multi-day VR travel experience as virtual vacations enter the Metaverse.

  3. Delight in the discomfort zone: 71% of Indian travellers are looking forward to experiencing ‘out of comfort zone’ travel that pushes them to the limits.

  4. Glamorising the Good ol’ Days: Nostalgic getaways that provide the thrill of reliving the glory days and harken back to simpler times are top of the travel wishlist for almost 95% Indian travellers.

  5. Peace and Pleasure Pilgrimages: 63% of Indian travellers will be taking a less conventional approach to wellness by seeking serenity at a silent retreat

  6. From Daily Grind to Great Company Escape: 68% of the Indian workforce is looking forward to their employer planning a ‘real life’ work trip to bring people together and build team camaraderie away from the office.

  7. Saving to Splurge: While investing in a vacation remains a top priority for Indians, being budget conscious is key, with 75% of Indian travellers seeking more bang for their buck.

 

Mumbai, November 23, 2022 – People around the world are feeling overwhelmingly more optimistic about travelling in 2023 compared to 2022 and, despite some current instability felt globally, nearly 72% report that travelling will always be worth it. The mood is shifting from one of hopeful uncertainty to bold adaptability. If 2022 was about the triumphant return of travel, 2023 will be about creatively reimagining it amidst the chaos. Nothing will be off limits and everything is on the menu as everyone seeks to find the right balance in a world of contradictions.

 

To understand how travel will be reimagined in 2023, Booking.com commissioned extensive research with more than 24,000 travellers across 32 countries and territories including India, combining it with its insights as a leading digital travel platform to reveal seven emerging travel predictions.

 

At a time of general upheaval, where war, increased societal polarisation, rising inflation and urgent concerns about climate change are all continuing to radically change the world, people are finding themselves in a multi-directional tug-of-war, working to reconcile what is important to them with the demands of everyday life. The 2023 travel predictions reflect this sentiment, revealing that the needs of travellers are moving in a lot of different directions to adapt to changing times.

 

  1. Preppers in Paradise: Camouflaged cabins, campfire cuisine and compasses; going off-grid will never be more sought after than in 2023. 64% of Indian travellers want their travelling experiences to have a more back-to-basics feel and are constantly looking for ‘off-grid’ style vacations to escape from reality, and switch off and experience life with only the bare necessities. 73% Indian travellers are also keen to use travel in 2023 as an opportunity to learn survival skills. Expect to see more eco-friendly, earthly stays springing up to accommodate burnt-out city dwellers searching for simplicity, as well as accommodations offering guidance for Indian travellers on how to be more self-sufficient. ‘Off-grid’ in 2023 won’t necessarily mean roughing it though. There is a common perception that this means giving up luxuries (67% of Indian travellers believe that), however there is a strong desire to combine the two with 65% only considering travelling ‘off-grid’ if it can be at a more indulgent stay.

 

  1. Virtual Voyagers: With 70% of Indian travellers reporting that they will be turning to virtual reality next year to inspire their vacation choices, travel will enter the ever-evolving 3D virtual space of the Metaverse in 2023. With 61% of Indians keen to embark on a multi-day VR travel experience, the Metaverse will be more than ‘try before you buy’; it will educate people, opening the door for infinite adventure. Travelers will become bolder in their real-life trip choices, after being able to visit them in the Metaverse first via their online avatar. While the Metaverse will offer a new way to experience travel in the year ahead, it still won’t stop people from booking a ticket to their next destination.

 

  1. Delight in the Discomfort Zone: Whether it’s bottled-up energy, a new lease on life, the world is ready to dive into other cultures and new experiences head first. 71% Indian travellers want to experience complete culture shock in 2023 – be it travelling somewhere with completely different cultural experiences and languages 63% or exploring lesser-known cities with hidden gems that aren’t already on the radar 27%. Forget the usual favourites, in 2023 Indian travellers will be seeking unique vacations that shock, surprise and delight. 96% of Indian travellers are looking forward to experiencing ‘out of comfort zone’ travel that pushes them to the limits, there will be an influx of niche experiences encouraging people to push their travel escapades to the extreme. Unsurprisingly, this ‘culture shook’ Indian traveller is also partial to throwing caution to the wind, with 46% wanting to buy a one way ticket in 2023 and follow their instinct wherever it takes them.

 

  1. Glamorising the Good ol’ Days: Amid the desire for escapism, people intend to carve out travel experiences that harken back to simpler times, with nostalgic getaways 95% that provide the thrill of reliving the glory days top of the wishlist in 2023. There’s a desire – even for millennials and Gen-Zs who never lived it – to disappear into the romanticism of a pre-digital era, with 28% of Indian travellers chasing experiences that evoke (faux) emotive memories of days gone past, such as visiting landmarks or attractions featured in iconic retro films or opting for a bus as a primary mode of transport to live the group spirit of school trips.

Travellers are no longer forfeiting play in favour of rest and relaxation, with 76% Indians  increasingly seeking the adrenaline rush of theme parks , and drawing on the imagination with activities such as escape rooms, scavenger hunts and building fortresses with giant building blocks.  Millennial travellers will be first to book emerging era-themed accommodation that transport them back to a time they hold close to their hearts, and will likely be doing so with family by their side 54% with ‘family reunion’ multi-generational trips top of the travel agenda in 2023. 

 

  1. Peace and Pleasure Pilgrimages: Travel is set to take ‘mind, body and soul’ wellness to the next level in 2023 – a fully immersive, no-holds-barred approach to attaining peace and pleasure including less conventional ways to feel bliss. Seeking to recenter the mind, meditation and mindfulness getaways are ever popular with 70% Indian travelers while 63% aim to find peace at a silent retreat and 59% are keen to go on a health hiatus that focuses on mental health, transformative health or that helps with life milestones such as menopause or pregnancy.

 

For those seeking enhanced spiritual experiences to stir the soul, alternative substances such as cannabis or plant-based psychedelics like ayahuasca or mushrooms will become a more mainstream offering, with 64% keen to try this kind of experimental wellness experience as part of their 2023 travels.

 

  1. From Daily Grind to Great Company Escape: A step change from the ‘work from anywhere’ policy that are now almost as commonplace as annual leave, employees are increasingly keen to preserve vacation time for complete escapism. 75% Indians want their trips to be strictly work free in 2023, and while 64% are not interested in working while away, they would consider clocking in for a company retreat or trip. As such, travelling for business will be back in 2023.

 

2023 will see a rise in destination business retreats where the focus will be on strengthening relationships and corporate recreation rather than work. In fact, 68% of the Indian workforce is looking forward to their employer planning a ‘real life’ work trip to bring people together and 69% would like to see their employer use the money saved from the shift to remote/hybrid working models spent on corporate travel or retreats. In response, Businesses stand to see benefits, too – 76% of Indians believe exploring new places will inspire them to be more productive at work.

 

  1. Saving to Splurge: Indian travellers in 2023 will continue to prioritise travel but will be more mindful over how to make the most of their travel budget and what takes precedence. 69% of Indian travellers will invest in a vacation as it remains a top priority for them, but being budget conscious is key, with nearly 75% Indians continuing to spotlight travel while seeking more bang for their buck.

 

2023 will see financially-savvy itinerary curation at its finest, with people planning travel budgets more tightly by taking advantage of deals, hacks and smartly-timed travel and prioritising value for money with discounts and loyalty programs. 69% Indians will look to save money by considering off-season destinations or longer routes on the journey, while 72% will be planning travel more in advance in the hope to secure a better deal. 71% believe the best use of their budget is to opt for one or two longer vacations instead of several short breaks.

 

Within this context, Indian travellers are also surprisingly prepared to dial up their spend – and even splurge – on the components of their trip that mean the most to them. 70% admit that they plan to be more indulgent in their spending habits while on vacation to make up for the lack of travel during the last couple of years, while 67% plan to spend lavishly to ensure they maximise their trip and every experience is worth it.’

Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Indonesia at Booking.com comments, The years of pandemic gave us a chance to reminisce and acknowledge that travel should not be taken for granted. Our Travel predictions 2023 research demonstrates a desire for travel to be a way to seek unapologetic moments of happiness and escapism to counteract the heavy realities of our news feeds. At Booking.com our aim will continue to be to make it easier for everyone to seek their unique travel bliss in a more personalised and connected way in the year ahead and beyond.”

Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt LTD elevates Mayank Bhatt as Chief Executive Officer

Mayank Bhatt

In his new position, Mayank will lead the charge to grow Impresario to an INR 1,000 Cr Company in the next 3 years 

November 2022: Impresario today announced the elevation of Mayank Bhatt to the position of Chief Executive Officer. The move comes after IndiaRF recently announced an INR 550 Crores investment in Impresario Entertainment and Hospitality Private Limited, the brand that pioneered cafe culture in India. The transaction is the largest single private-equity deal size in the Indian CDR segment.

Mayank has been a pillar in the SOCIAL growth story over the past seven years as the Business Head of SOCIAL. He will now focus his expertise on Impresario which includes other celebrated brands like Smoke House Deli, Salt Water Cafe, Mocha, BOSS Burger and Slink & Bardot. 

Mayank’s natural ability to tap into youth culture has played a pivotal role in taking SOCIAL from a single outpost in Bengaluru to a 35-outlet pan-Indian giant that has become one of the most loved homegrown brands of the country. He was also instrumental in creating antiSOCIAL, one of Mumbai’s only live performance venues comparable to many global counterparts. Mayank will oversee and manage the company’s overall operations and brand-building while ensuring a strong bottom line. 

Commenting on his elevation, Mayank Bhatt says, “I’ve been leading the charge at SOCIAL for years now, but it still feels like Day 1. Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt Ltd (IEHPL) has revolutionized the cafe culture in the country by creating spaces (like Mocha, Smoke House Deli, and Salt Water Grill) that allow the community to come together. We have created the perfect product-market fit to capture India’s changing demographic dividend. We’ve also unlocked the potential for co-working spaces early on, making our cafes the perfect place for people to visit any time of the day. Channelling our expertise and looking to the future, IEHPL is poised to be an INR 1,000 Cr company in the next 3 years with 140 SOCIAL and Smoke House Deli outposts leading the charge and a robust 25% contribution to revenue from our delivery business. I look forward to bringing these numbers to life and charting out the next two decades of IEHPL.”

Riyaaz Amlani, Founder & Managing Director, Impresario says, “Mayank has proven his mettle as a leader who understands brands, people and culture; something that’s integral to the pulse of Impresario. SOCIAL’s trajectory under his leadership is something that goes down in the books as a true success story. I couldn’t have asked for anyone better to take over the reins of Impresario and its suite of brands. I am eager to see the course that he takes with utmost faith in his judgements and decisions.”

An alum of the University of West London, Mayank started his career 18 years ago, at ITC Hotels in Mumbai. His work experience includes brands from the UK and India, both in hospitality and alcohol & beverage. He has been responsible for the growth of two widely renowned hospitality brands from India- SOCIAL and blueFROG- and led the luxury portfolio in the West for the alcoholic major company, Diageo in India. Mayank joined Impresario as the Business Head for SOCIAL where he headed several verticals like operations, programming and events, including the beverage portfolio of their brands.

About Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt LTD

Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt LTD was founded in 2001 with its maiden venture Mocha – Coffees and Conversations. Today, Impresario boasts of a network of over 60 + restaurants across 17 Indian cities.  Its umbrella of brands includes scaled brands such as SOCIAL, Smoke House Deli, and Mocha, as well as boutique brands such as Salt Water Café and Slink & Bardot. It also owns and operates dark kitchen brands like BOSS Burger, Lucknowee, and HungLi. The company’s core strength lies in understanding the changing dining habits of young India and delivering quality experiences tailored to delight its patrons.

Please note, as this news is under Embargo till 25th November 2022, 10:30 AM, do let me know if we can explore a feature for the same.


Scoot Attains International Air Transport Association (IATA) Membership

  • Joins Community of 300 IATA Members Across 120 Countries

  • Accreditation that Scoot meets the highest standards for airline safety

  • Greater opportunities to drive industry priorities and key initiatives

Singapore – Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines Group, has attained full International Air

Transport Association (IATA) membership. Only airlines that meet IATA’s Operational Safety Audit (IOSA)

standards for safety in airline operations are eligible for IATA’s membership.

Mr. Leslie Thng, Scoot’s Chief Executive Officer, said “We are honored to become an IATA member. This

international recognition affirms our dedication to upholding safety for our passengers. Through the decade, we

have continued to enhance our operational resilience and improve our customers’ experience. Looking ahead,

we hope to continue to pave the way in redefining and elevating value-travel in our industry.”

”We are delighted to welcome Scoot as an IATA member. Having Scoot, a low-cost carrier, as a member will

further enhance the diversity of views we have in the Association. We look forward to working with the Scoot

team towards the sustainable growth of the industry as it recovers from the impact of COVID-19,” said Philip

Goh, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Asia Pacific.

The IATA membership is only open to airlines operating scheduled and non-scheduled air services. Maintaining

an IOSA registration, and complying with the IOSA program, an internationally recognised and accepted

evaluation system designed to assess the operational management and control systems of an airline, is a

condition of IATA membership.

As part of the IATA membership, Scoot will have the opportunity to help drive priorities within the aviation

industry and participate in member conferences that bring together representatives from leading international

airlines. Being a member also gives Scoot access to IATA training in major fields such as aviation safety and

security, operational efficiency and excellence, sustainability, as well as programmes that help strengthen the

capabilities of aviation industry professionals.

PURATOS TEGRAL SATIN PLUM CAKE EGG-FREE OFFERS A ONE-STOP SOLUTION TO BAKERS AND ARTISANS THIS CHRISTMAS

When it comes to Christmas, there is nothing that can replace the rich plum cake. It has remained an inseparable part of the traditional treats for Christmas festivities. With the growing demand for plum cakes during the season, bakers and artisans are working round the clock to offer the best and newest variations to their customers. While it is one of the must-have products in the artisan assortment, the procurement of raw ingredients for plum cake preparation is quite laborious. Puratos Tegral Satin Plum cake egg-free offers a one-stop hassle-free solution that perfectly fits into the artisan scheme of things. 

Mr. Ashish Seth, Managing Director, Puratos Food Ingredients India Pvt. Ltd., said “The delicious plum cakes have remained the quintessential treat during the Christmas season that helps bakers boost their sales. Puratos Tegral Satin Plum cake egg-free offers the perfect solution for bakers to be innovative with their cake preparations that the consumers will love and patronize. It relieves them from the cumbersome task of procurement and keeping all the key ingredients in the store required for plum cake preparation. While plum cakes are prepared using eggs, Tegral Satin Plum cake is egg-free, keeping in mind the taste profile of customers in India.”

 

Tegral Satin Plum Cake Egg Free Mix which is a perfect blend of spices gives rich dark colour and good volume to your bar cakes, cupcakes, and round cakes. With loads of fruits, and nuts and infused with a rich taste it will enliven the finished product and differentiate it through taste and innovation. Puratos global presence, long history of expertise, and R&D capabilities in India have enabled them to tailor products to match Indian preferences, value, and functionality.

Celebrate the Warmth of Campfire Dinner at The Bheemili Beach, Visakhapatnam

It’s the time of the year when the temperature drops down and those extra wood and dried leaves are valued. The essence of being outside simplifies everything. The Campfire Dinner by the beach at The Bheemili Resort is a celebration of people’s ever-growing love for new, tasty and scrumptious food. The food will be prepared fresh at the barbeque grills, giving a unique open-air kitchen feel. The process is streamlined by utilizing techniques used in classic kitchens that make the day off seamless so that you can kick back and enjoy the views with your company.

Savor all things barbecue and grill to perfection. Indulge in the selection of items served with a wide variety of meat, seafood, and fresh vegetables. From Chicken to Fresh Sea Fish, Shashliks, and Jacket Potatoes & many more to choose from that your heart desires, this Campfire Dinner will leave you unsettled in witty culinary satire.

Relish on an extensive feast with charcoal-grilled specialties by the culinary experts at The Bheemli Resort.

What: Campfire Dinner

Where: The Lawn, The Bheemili Resort

When: : From 25th November 2022 till 31st January 2023, Every Friday

Time: 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm

Price: 1799+

Six Senses Fort Barwara Crafts Special Holiday Experiences This Season

Experience the holiday season, the Six Senses way

With the winter chill in the air, expansive views of the Aravali, and the warmth of the delicious Rajasthani cuisine the secret location of the Six Senses Fort Barwara makes for the perfect winter holiday destination. Six Senses Fort Barwara has lined up a series of out-of-the-ordinary events for you, and your loved ones. It is a perfect choice to celebrate with the whole family, and enjoy family-friendly activities, cocktails at sundowners, spa and wellness programs, and delightful culinary experiences, all specially crafted to enchant the senses.

Situated away from the city hustle, the beautiful 14th-century fort has been sensitively converted to become a destination for history lovers, adventure seekers, and wellness enthusiasts. The culinary journey offers a creative approach to regional Rajasthani and pan-Indian cuisine with a sprinkle of international influences while embracing the Eat with Six Senses philosophy of local, fresh and seasonal produce.

 

The dining experiences at Fort Barwara are spread across The Cortile, the all-day diner; and Rani Bagh- an all-day bar by the pool surrounded by the tall fort walls. In the evening, the colors of Rani Bagh and live music brings the fort to life and its glory. Aside from the restaurants, there’s Shikar Burj for a dine-under-the-stars experience.

Six Senses Integrated Wellness plays a pivotal role at all Six Senses resorts and spas, and at Fort Barwara, guests can also discover a menu of signature massages, Ayurvedic treatments, nurturing facials, mindfulness practices, and personalized wellness programs based on the preventative principles of Eastern medicine and result-oriented Western influences.

Christmas & New Year's Offers: 

Guests can make the most of their holiday getaway with an exciting festive calendar that kicks off on December 22 leading up to New Year’s celebrations. Engage in various activities such as Christmas tree decoration, pop-up bars planned at surprise locations, Christmas treats baking sessions, movie nights at the Viewing Gallery and more. Enjoy a scrumptious lunch and dinner at The Cortile, an all-day dining restaurant located by a leafy 14th- century courtyard, along with an offering of Destination Dining where they can choose their spot to celebrate special moments under the blanket of stars.

During their stay, guests can opt for Hatha Yoga, Yin & Yan Yoga, and various other yoga activities at locations that offer panoramic views. From foot massage workshops for couples and body balance sessions to fitness consultations with the expert and visiting practitioner Christiaan, one can experience the most amazing wellness treatments. One can also spend a DIY afternoon at the signature Six Senses Earth Lab facilities to learn the art of upcycling wax, blending oils, and other sustainability workshops.

Another of the resort’s festive highlights is The Gala dinner at Zenana lawns. Appearing for one day only on December 31, the New Year’s Eve will be complete with DJ sets followed by a Live band and an afterparty at Zenana lawns.

By day, the GEM can arrange a private tiger safari or heritage walk through the ramparts of the fort, or have a go at learning local cooking methods in earthenware pots with one of our chefs. Six Senses Fort Barwara combines and customizes activities to suit energetic guests and those who prefer to simply sit back and relax, taking in all the dazzling attractions that Rajasthan has to offer.

 

About Six Senses Fort Barwara

Situated in the culturally rich province of Rajasthan, a beautiful 14th-century fort has been sensitively restored to become Six Senses Fort Barwara. This significant conservation effort reinterprets the gracious and regal ambiance of a bygone era. The resort includes two palaces, two original temples, and 48 beautifully appointed suites within the fort walls. Three restaurants offer innovative menus emphasizing locally sourced ingredients, while the impressive Six Senses Spa provides a peaceful sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul. Outside the fort, the property faces the charming village of Barwara to the west and a forested expanse to the east. The famous tigers of Ranthambore National Park are only a short drive away.

Nature’s Basket unveils new flagship at Nepean Sea Road, South Mumbai

Mumbai, November 2022: Strategically located & tastefully designed, the store reflects the brand promise of ‘Taste the World’. With this, Nature’s Basket now operates 35 stores across Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, Kolkata, and Pune.

Nature’s Basket (NB), India’s foremost retail destination for fine foods from around the world, and part of RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group (RPSG), launched its brand new flagship store in Nepean Sea Road, South Mumbai. The new Nepean sea road store is a reflection of the brand’s promise of being the go-to place for the customer’s Gourmet needs. Located on the premises of the famous Infinity Towers compound at Narayan Dabholkar Road (off Nepeansea road), the store is a much-awaited destination to cater to the Gourmet needs of residents in the Malabar Hill and Nepean sea road area.

The store, which is approximately 4700 sq. ft., will offer a wide range of gourmet products, fresh produce, bakery, and dairy items. The new Nature’s Basket store will operate between 8 am to 10 pm on seven days. Nature’s Basket had also invited food and lifestyle influencers from Mumbai to attend the launch event and get the first-hand experience of shopping at the store and a sneak peek at its inventory. The bloggers have showcased the offerings of the store on their social media handles.

Speaking on the occasion, Devendra Chawla, CEO, of Nature’s Basket and Spencer’s Retail shared “Mumbai is our foremost market and we continue to deepen our presence in this city. The addition of this store right in the heart of South Mumbai will delight our customers, especially given the catchments profile consisting of well-traveled and extremely discerning customers.

Speaking on the occasion, Shashwat Goenka, Sector Head - Retail & FMCG, RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group added, “Nature’s Basket as a Brand is uniquely positioned to cater to the Gourmet needs of our customers. The addition of our Nepean Sea Road reaffirms the group’s belief in India’s increasing Gourmet appetite and we are pleased that through Nature’s Basket, our customers can “Taste the World” right here at a store near them.

Nature’s Basket is an omnichannel Gourmet retailer operating 35 stores across Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, Kolkata, and Pune. Besides physical stores, the brand also has a strong online presence and customers can order online at https://www.naturesbasket.co.in/ or download the Nature’s Basket app from Play Store / App store

The Anam Mui Ne To Celebrate Grand Opening in January

MUI NE, Vietnam (November 2022) – The Anam Mui Ne, a resort with 127 elegant rooms and suites, a sublime design inspired by Vietnam’s Indochine era, and a prime beachfront location will celebrate its grand opening in January next year.

Situated in southern Vietnam’s popular beach town Mui Ne, the independently owned and operated five-star resort is the second Anam property to open. The Anam Mui Ne follows the successful 2017 debut of The Anam Cam Ranh which has been recognized by some of the industry’s highest accolades including placement among Asia’s top resorts in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards in 2021 and 2020. 

Overlooking Mui Ne’s white sand beach, the resort affords spectacular East Sea vistas. The resort’s dining landscape comprises an all-day dining restaurant and grill called The Indochine, beachside restaurant and bars Lang Viet Restaurant and Bar, Saigon Bar in the lobby, and 24-7 in-room dining. The resort will cut the ribbon on a collection of luxurious facilities on January 11 including a five-treatment-room spa, two spacious swimming pools - one fresh water and the other saltwater - a ballroom, conference rooms, water sports center, fitness center, yoga room, kid’s club, and gift shop.

Like its predecessor, The Anam Mui Ne’s design is an echo of Vietnam’s bygone Indochine period, with architecture guided by Hanoi’s grand old French villas. Evoking a romantic atmosphere, the likes of glowing lanterns, customized encaustic mosaic tiles, big-bellied clay water vases, statues on plinths, imperial-style roofs, cornice detailing, and intricate woodwork have been crafted by artisans from across Vietnam whose trades have been handed down the generations. Giving way to an infinity pool and the ocean beyond, the lobby makes for a striking first impression, replete with a grand piano and a sloping roof fashioned with glass panels that water gently flows over, casting faint shadows underneath.

The resort’s 127 classic rooms and suites range in size from an ample 40sqm to a spacious 142sqm across six accommodation categories. Seven 142sqm suites come with private pools. A 122sqm presidential suite offers a quarters for bodyguards. Vietnamese artists were commissioned to create unique paintings for each room and suite, opening doors on the country's fascinating culture. Clawfoot bathtubs and custom-built furniture such as leather-bound tables add to the resort’s old-world feel.

“We learned so many valuable lessons about how to design, orient and build a hotel with The Anam Cam Ranh; so much so that every design element that is extraordinary about our first property has been accentuated in The Anam Mui Ne, such as the layouts and flow of the accommodations,” said the resorts’ founder and owner Pham Van Hien. “The alluring woodwork in our Lang Viet Restaurant, from forests cultivated for sustainable harvests in Vietnam, is all handcrafted and took the craftspeople over six months to complete and is just one example of the many hand-crafted design elements evident in our new resort.”

“We expect The Anam Mui Ne to redefine Mui Ne’s hotel scene,” added group general manager Laurent Myter. “There is nothing quite like it; an intimate, classic, and genuine Vietnamese hotel with personalized Vietnamese service that is anything but the industrialized product that so many hotel chains have established in Vietnam.”

The resort will open with a ban on single-use plastics and has implemented an array of measures to reduce its carbon footprint with solar power and locally sourced ingredients. Its water filtration plant supplies drinking water in recycled glass bottles, and laundry water is recycled to water the gardens. Straws, bags, and bathroom amenities are biodegradable. The resort’s eco-friendly key cards are also made from wood that’s been sourced from sustainably managed forests.

Famed for its beach, sand dunes, fishing village, Cham towers, and “Fairy Stream” - a shallow stream that flows through vivid orange and white limestone formations - Mui Ne means “sheltered peninsula” in Vietnamese and has become a Southeast Asian windsurfing mecca due to its excellent weather and wind conditions. An expressway due to open shortly will cut the drive from Ho Chi Minh City to 2.5 hours. An international airport is due to open in Mui Ne in 2025.


THE KING OF NALEN GUR


 The Nalen Gur ice cream is made from liquid Nalen Gur which itself is loaded with minerals that are extremely healthy for our bodies. It is prepared from the sap of the date palm (khajur) tree which is native to Bengal. During winters, the sap is collected in an earthen container hung on the top part of the date palm tree. Nalen Gur liquid is extremely rich in iron and potassium, which may help manage one’s hemoglobin levels. It also contains a good amount of magnesium, which is proven to be helpful for the human nervous system, muscles and bones.

Kolkata, November 2022: Winters are here and it’s soon going to be Nalen Gur time. Nalen Gur is prepared from the sap of the date palm (khajur) tree which is native to Bengal. During winters, the sap is collected in an earthen container hung on the top part of the date palm tree. The sap is heated over a flat pan till it thickens and turns into a viscous liquid with a honey-like consistency. Nalen Gur liquid has a unique earthy & fruity flavor which is adored by millions of Bengalis all over the world.

Have you ever wondered who has worked relentlessly to improve the purity and authenticity of liquid Nalen Gur? Have you ever wondered who actually uses the maximum amount of Nalen Gur in West Bengal? Look no further as the person behind the revival of Nalen Gur is none other than the owner and ice cream maker of Pabrai’s Ice cream – Mr. Anuvrat Pabrai. To his credit and to the delight of millions of ice cream lovers across the world goes the credit for inventing the Nalen Gur ice cream- an ice cream which is rated amongst the seven best sweets in South-East Asia, China, Japan, Russia, Australia and the Indian subcontinent.

The exotic and highly popular Nalen Gur ice cream is a signature offering of the Kolkata-based family run brand - Pabrai’s Fresh & Naturelle Ice creams.The Nalen Gur ice cream is made from liquid Nalen Gur which itself is loaded with minerals which are extremely healthy for our body. Nalen Gur liquid is extremely rich in iron and potassium, which may help manage one’s hemoglobin levels. It also contains a good amount of magnesium, which is proven to be helpful for the human nervous system, muscles and bones.

The story behind the creation of the Nalen Gur Ice cream is also very interesting. Anuvrat Pabrai, the CEO of Pabrai’s and an ice cream maker for the last 37 years recounts. “In 2007-08 we were exploring introducing exotic flavors and I visited several top caterers to take their advice as to which flavors, they would want us to make. One very senior caterer suggested that we should try to make Nalen Gur ice cream.” He said, “It’s so quintessentially Bengali and all Bengali’s adore it.” On his advice, I visited several sweet shops to understand how Nalen Gur was used in Bengali sweets like Sandesh. I loved the taste and the flavor of sweets made with fresh Nalen Gur. Using my skills and experience as an ice cream maker, I did several trials and eventually came up with a Nalen Gur ice cream which I felt was good enough. I took it to the caterer and after tasting the Ice cream, the caterer was overjoyed. So, we started producing Nalen Gur ice creams and serving it to few caterers. The response was fantastic. In the first winter we used about 250 kgs. Next year it went up to 750 kgs. The next year it increased to 2000 kgs and then to 5000 kgs. Today we use nearly 35000-40000 kgs of Nalen Gur liquid every year to make our Nalen Gur ice cream.”

With the passage of time as well as increase in quantity of Nalen Gur we were handling, we became aware of the fine nuances in taste, aroma, consistency, and overall flavor of good quality of Nalen Gur Liquid. We realized that in order to keep price of liquid Nalen Gur cheap, a lot of it was adulterated with caramelized sugar syrup and with addition of color and essence. We researched the product in great depth and realized that in the long term we would have to keep production and processing of the liquid sap under our supervision. We created our own team of processors whose sap we would process under our supervision. We set standard specifications which our processors would have to adhere to while making liquid Nalen Gur. This ensured that the liquid Nalen Gur we obtained was absolutely unadulterated. We also created a process whereby we could preserve the liquid Gur and use it throughout the year. “Although liquid Nalen Gur is available only during the winter months of December and January, we have a special method of processing the sap so that it retains its flavors and aroma for up to 12 months. This way we are able to provide Nalen Gur ice creams throughout the whole year. Indians really love their ice creams, regardless of the season, and we are looking forward to serving one of our most loved specialties not only in winters but throughout the year,” said Pabrai’s CEO Anuvrat Pabrai.

Another unique feature of the Nalen Gur ice cream is that when we serve it, we drizzle a couple of teaspoons of warm liquid Nalen Gur on top of the scoop of ice cream. This enhances the flavors and doubles the taste experience.The Nalen Gur ice cream is available throughout the year across all our retail parlors and is also supplied to a large number of hotels, restaurants and caterers across the country.Due to persistent requests from our customers, this year we are launching retail packs of liquid Nalen Gur. We look forward to our esteemed customers enjoying authentic liquid Nalen Gur throughout the year

DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square elevates Apoorva Chandram as Rooms Division Manager

He will be responsible for uniquely enriching guest comfort and satisfaction, training and development, quality assurance, budgeting, performance development and ensuring operational excellence within the team

Apoorva is a passionate hotelier with over 13 years in Hilton hotels across Middle East, Africa and India. Within Hilton, he has been part of a pre-opening and task force during brand conversion.

Apoorva joined DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square as Front Office Manager in 2021. Through his profound contribution in elevating guest experiences and implementing innovative tools in front and back of the house, he now takes on a new role as the Rooms Division Manager.

In his new role, he will be responsible for uniquely enriching guest comfort and satisfaction, training and development, quality assurance, budgeting, performance development and ensuring operational excellence within the team.

On the educational front, he pursued Executive Development Program in Data Science from Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur in 2021; SHINE 1- Hilton’s structured leadership program for a smooth transition into a director role in 2020; Hospitality & Tourism Management from Florida Atlantic University in 2020 and Hotel Revenue Management from Cornell University in 2018.

Commenting on the appointment, Jai Chugh, General Manager said, “We are very happy to see him grow on his career path. He has been associated with Hilton for 15 years and has worked efficiently to delight guests with exceptional experiences. His contribution in other departments has also been remarkable and we firmly believe that he will achieve more milestones with his skill set and eye for detail.”

In his spare time, Apoorva enjoys spending time with family.

Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata appoints Manoj Jangid as hotel manager

Jangid started his career in F&B operations and has experience both in curated fine dining spaces as well as large-scale catering events. He has worked across multiple hotel companies like Taj Hotels, Hyatt, Accor Hotels, and Marriott International.

Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata has announced the appointment of Manoj Jangid as their new hotel manager. With over twenty years of enriching industry experience, Jangid is a hospitality veteran and has an intrinsic understanding of hotel operations and guest aspirations. He would be responsible for looking after the strategic initiatives and overall operations of Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata with 182 keys and the banqueting facilities at the Ozone Convention Centre.

Jangid started his career in F&B operations and has experience both in curated fine dining spaces as well as large-scale catering events. He has earned his reputation working across multiple hotel companies and varied roles at Taj Hotels, Hyatt, Accor Hotels, and Marriott International.

Starting as an assistant manager at Grand Hyatt, Mumbai in 2009, he climbed various steps in the food & beverage Department- from a restaurant manager to the director of food & beverage at Sofitel Mumbai between 2011-2019. His last assignment was at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar where he spearheaded f&b operations as the director of food & beverage for three years.

Jangid brings his multi-pronged understanding of aspirational tier 1 markets to ensure a successful positioning of Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata. He will play a key role in establishing a high brand recall for the hotel in the ‘City of Joy’.

Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan appoints Sanket Gadikar as the Assistant Sales Manager

Pune, November 2022: Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan is pleased to announce the appointment of Sanket Gadikar as the hotel’s new Assistant Sales Manager. In this new role, Sanket will be responsible in supporting the development sales & marketing strategies, promoting awareness of brand image internally and externally, and expediting sale techniques to maximize revenue while maintaining existing guest loyalty.

With over 5 years of experience in hotel operations and sales, Sanket started his hospitality journey in 2017 with Novotel Pune. Since then, Sanket has worked with renowned hospitality brands such as Radisson Blu Jaipur and Courtyard by Marriott Raipur.

Sanket has completed his Masters's in Hospitality and Administration (Sales & Marketing) from the Institute of Hotel Management, Lucknow. His passion for the hospitality industry has persuaded him to be amiable and analytical in all his roles so far. He believes in rising above challenges and looks forward to utilizing his skills in a manner that will help him succeed in his professional journey. 

Commenting on his appointment, Sanket said, “I am elated to start a new chapter with the team at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan. I look forward to providing my services to enhance the brand image and guest experience while working alongside an excellent team of associates to deliver exceptional results”.


Marine Biologist Dives into Hotel’s Sustainability Effort

Banyan Tree Krabi takes further steps to reduce its carbon footprint

KRABI, Thailand November: Ms.Tipwimon Rattanawongwan, a marine scientist from Kanchanaburi in Thailand, has joined Banyan Tree Krabi as a Sustainability Coordinator.

Tipwimon, formerly a Marine Biologist at Four Seasons Koh Samui, brings a wealth of experience to the team, including a spell at Phuket Marine Biological Center and as a Foundation Coordinator at the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation Phuket.

Banyan Tree Krabi, which opened in 2020 with 72 pool suites and villas, continues to embrace and expand its commitment to sustainability, headed by Sustainability Manager Thepsuda Loyjiw, who oversees projects at both the Andaman beachfront hotel and its sister resort Banyan Tree Samui.

Banyan Tree Samui won international plaudits in 2020 when Thepsuda and her team successfully protected and nurtured the nests and eggs of a rare green turtle on the resort’s beach, resulting in the birth and survival of more than 200 hatchlings.

“Ms Tipwimon will be a valuable addition to our team as we work continuously to create a carbon-free footprint at each of our resorts,” said Thepsuda. “Among her targets will be a focus on resource conservation, recycling and upcycling, pollution reduction, waste elimination, and limiting energy consumption.”

The Banyan Tree Hotels group is renowned as a wellness brand with strong eco-friendly policies. Among Banyan Tree Krabi’s industry-recognized awards is a “Green Hotel Award - Gold Certification,” presented by Thailand’s Department of Environmental Quality Promotion in recognition of the resort’s ongoing efforts to efficiently manage energy, waste and natural resources.

The 5-star property, located on tranquil Tubkaek Beach facing the uninhabited limestone islands of Than Bok Khorani Marine National Park, looks to follow in the gentle footprints of Banyan Tree Samui which in 2018 became the first hotel in Thailand to be awarded “Gold Certification” at a single-property level by Earthcheck, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group for travel and tourism.

Banyan Tree Krabi’s recent sustainability initiatives include an Earth Day beach clean-up, and the introduction of Forest Bathing, a nature-based educational tour for guests, including children, to help raise awareness about environmental conservation and protecting local flora and fauna.


Cake Mixing with a Difference at The St. Regis Goa Resort

In keeping with the spirit of giving, the newly opened St. Regis Goa Resort celebrated the traditional cake-mixing ceremony along with children of Valentina’s Heaven Orphanage at its property in Cavelossim. The little guests participated in the cake mixing ceremony which used fresh juices instead of spirits and enjoyed a lavish spread of sweet treats, tasty bites and eats which was curated by the chefs at The St Regis Goa Resort.

Goa, Nov 2022: Christmas season is a time to spread joy and cheer. The St. Regis Goa Resort chose to do it differently. In keeping with the spirit of giving, the newly opened The St. Regis Goa Resort celebrated the traditional cake-mixing ceremony along with children of Valentina’s Heaven Orphanage at its property in Cavelossim. Children across age groups spent a wonderful evening along with guests and employees of the resort.

 

The event was held as part of Global Customer Appreciation Week, a Marriott International initiative. The St Regis Goa Resort will share 100% proceeds from the revenue made through the sale of Christmas cakes with the orphanage.

 

“Guided by the Marriott International 2025 Sustainability and Social Impact Goals, as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, we commit to creating positive and sustainable impact wherever we do business. We believe in making the communities in which we operate better places to live, work and visit. Spreading the joy of Christmas with the children of the orphanage is our way of bringing the community together during the festive season,” explained Satish Kumar, GM, The St Regis Goa Resort.

 

Children played games, and spent an evening where joy and laughter rang through the evening. The little guests participated in the cake mixing ceremony which used fresh juices instead of spirits and enjoyed a lavish spread of sweet treats, tasty bites and eats which was curated by the chefs at The St Regis Goa Resort.

 

The cake mixing ceremony is part of an age-old Christmas tradition which is enjoyed with friends, family and relatives, the world over.

Fairfield By Marriott Mumbai Celebrated Cake Mixing With A Twist 


Cake mixing ceremony at Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai airport was a star-studded event and mixing was done with a twist 

After opening in July this year Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai celebrated its first-ever cake-mixing ceremony in 2 different styles on 19th November. 

The traditional cake mixed with nuts and spirits was attended by celebrities like Rochelle Rao, Keith Sequeira, Tanaz Irani, Charu Asopa and  many more. 

There was a special cake-mixing ceremony organized for children which was alcohol free and kids were seen in joyous mood of Christmas, along with kids from Jamuna Bai school this ceremony was attended by celebrity child artists including Ruhanika Dhawan and Aakriti Sharma. 


Celebrating this joyous occasion Mr. Rafiq Balwa Executive Director & Vice President ·: Balwa Group said " This was the first cake mixing ceremony at Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai and firsts are always special, so we thought of doing it with a twist and make it memorable for young kids, I'm glad that kids came in huge numbers and enjoyed the vibe of Christmas and got to learn the meaning of cake mixing ceremony that is held a month before Christmas "


Fairfield By Marriott Mumbai General Manager Mr Ajoy Balkrishna Said, "The concept of cake mixing is a very old tradition, mixing of nuts ,dry fruits alcohol a month before Christmas is done and stored and  that's how plum cake is made during Christmas,Here at Fairfield By Marriott Mumbai we did something different we have invited kids to join us for Cake Mixing. Instead of liquor We used syrups and honey for children. so that the kids can also participate in it and enjoy the ceremony. We will be sharing  this cake with  children of an orphanage during Thanksgiving because happiness should always be shared."


Fairfield By Marriott Executive Corporate Chef Navid Akhtar said, "This was the first cake mixing ceremony at "Fairfield By Marriott Mumbai" so a lot of preparations were done in advance. Instead of liquor we used syrups and honey for the kids ' ceremony. Celebrating Christmas with kids is always special and we could see so many smiles today "

Fairfield By Marriott Mumbai Hotel Manager Jenvie Peters' Said, " Cake Mixing ritual is an age old tradition of the 17th century and it brings a lot of joy in the season of Christmas . We are glad that kids and adults enjoyed alike during our ceremony and moments of happiness were shared "

The Ceremony was filled with Joy & Laughter and Christmas vibes filled everyone's heart with happiness


 Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks immersed in the festive fervor with a grand Cake mixing ceremony


Bangalore November 2022: Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks celebrated a grand cake mixing ceremony, with renewed excitement, traditions and culture. The event’s highlight was the unique football theme which remained the guests’ favourite throughout the evening. The celebration which marks the beginning of the festive cheer was attended by the local media, food bloggers, and lifestyle influencers. 

To set the ceremony off, guests donned hand gloves, aprons, and toques. A variety of exclusive fruits, assorted nuts, raisins, and spices were curated by the team of culinary experts which were soaked in the finest rum, wine, syrups and other alcoholic beverages. The guests were treated with an assorted menu which was specially curated around the theme opted for the occasion. With the nip in the air, the vibrant cocktails made for the perfect after-party at the poolside. 

On this joyous occasion of Cake mixing, General Manager, Tejus Jose, Hilton Bangalore Embassy Golflinks expressed, “We had curated the grape stomping & cake mixing ceremony to usher in the festive season which spreads joie de vivre and camaraderie for Christmas. It gives us immense pleasure to have our guests participate in the annual ritual and create unforgettable memories.”

The Football theme for the evening made the event all the more exciting and fun for the attendees. The hotel concluded the exciting ceremony by giving all their attendees a box of cake personally presented by the General Manager.

The wholesome event was a true amalgamation of a soirée filled with charm, joy, and merriment.



Catch the live screening of FIFA World Cup 2022 at Geoffrey’s - Marine Plaza


Every four years, millions of fans ardently foresee the world’s biggest sporting event - FIFA World Cup! Many of us may not get a chance to see our favourite players and teams on the pitch, but watching the live screening at a pub or a sports bar with our friends definitely brings us a little closer to the World cup atmosphere.

For fans wondering where to watch Football’s most prestigious spectacle, which will be held in Qatar, and kick off this Sunday, Geoffrey’s Pub at Hotel Marine Plaza is a perfect place to have a stellar viewing experience.

It’s a quaint old English pub housed inside the Marine Plaza and makes for a fitting drinking out place. With its pub-esque decor bedecked with wood-panel floors, soothing hues and colonial touches at the bar – Geoffrey’s offers the old-world English charm. Known for its location, music and decor, it has a perfect ambience to enjoy the FIFA World Cup with your mates and unwind over a few drinks. 

Indulge in their English savouries and choose from an enviable range of spirits. At  Geoffrey's, The Pub, you don't need an occasion to savour their fiery concoctions, just head here and watch the moment turn into a special occasion!

Average Cost:

₹2,400 for two people (approx.) with alcohol

For more information:

https://www.instagram.com/geoffreysmumbai/



British Chef Makes All things Christmassy and Delicious for India

New Delhi, November 2022: Christmas- the festival of joy is in many ways, the pandora's box of happiness. And part of this happiness stems from the culture and cuisine associated with the festival. The practice of cake mixing begins quite early, mostly in the first week of November itself. It is an age-old tradition where kilograms of dry fruits, nuts, and spices are combined together to form a mixture. This mixture is then soaked in alcoholic blends for some days to let them soak all the flavors and aroma. Since alcohol is a preservative, the mixture is preserved for a long time period.. It is said that preserving the cake mix for a year can attract good luck and harmony.

British cuisine is the spearhead of Christmas goodness and it is this goodness that British Chef Vivek Chauhan brings to the Indian dining experience. Trained in the British kitchen, he presently is the Executive Pastry Chef at Le Meridien, New Delhi.

 

“ The ceremony marks the advent of the festive season and through this we look forward to spreading the warmth of this season of merry-making this ceremony which encourages.” In the end, it is food that is the thread that binds cultures, societies and festivities together", said, Chef Vivek Chauhan, Executive Pastry Chef at Le Meridien, New Delhi.

 

No Christmas celebration is complete without a typical Christmas pudding and Plum cake- what sets Chef Vivek’s apart is the enhancement he adds to the preparation of the dish- using typical british alcohol, carefully intertwined with traditional ingredients to provide a modern twist to a festive recipe. For cake mixing, almonds, cashews, raisins, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, dried ginger, candied fruits, prunes, walnuts, are mixed together.  The alcohols used are Cognac VSOP and VS, brandy and dark rum to name a few.

 

One key that sets Chef Vivek’s work apart, is his nuanced use of knowledge garnered in the UK, to the Indian dining experience. And, along with his British chefs and Indian chefs, who taught him, he gives his heartiest thanks to chef Davinder Kumar, his team, Shefali Singh (PR manager) and to his family. 

 

In the spirit of Christmas, here are 2 traditional recipes with a twist, courtesy Chef Vivek.

 

  1. A slice of Christmas: Christmas Pudding

  

Ingredients:

Dry fruits

Currants - 6 kg

Sultanas - 12 kg

Raisins - 12 kg

Mixed Peel - 5 kg

Prunes - 2.25 kg

Stem Ginger - 750 gm

Muscavado Sugar - 2.6 kg

Mixed Spice

Liqueur:

Guiness - 7.5 pints

Grand Marnier- 570 ml

Brandy - 1.2 Itr

Maderia - 1.2 ltr

Sherry - 1.2 Itr

Dark Rum - 1.2 Itr

London Pride/ Perroni - 7.5 pints

Fruits:

Apple - 4 Kg (1⁄2 Cooking + 1⁄2

Braebun)

Orange Segments - 2.250 Kg

Orange Zest - 5 no.

Lemon Zest - 5 no.

Items to be added in the end:

Whole Egg - 1.8 Kg

Flour - 2.7 Kg

Bread Crumb - 1.5 Kg

Vegetarian Suet - 1.5 Kg

Method:

Mix all dry ingredients in a container. Pour liquor over mixed dry ingredients and leave to

soak for 2 months in the fridge.

Churn the mix everyday so that fruit absorbs liqueur equally. Grate apples, chop oranges

and mix. Mix flour, bread crumb, whole egg, vegetarian suet. Finally mix with fruit mix.

Keep the mix in desired moulds and steam it at 90c for 4 and half

Hours.

 

 

  1. Make some room for Pandoro Bread

 

Ingredients:

Warm Water - 60 ml

Yeast - 30 gm

Sugar - 5 gm

Egg Yolk - 20 gm

Flour - 28 gm

For Dough:

Flour - 680 gm

Egg Yolk - 140 gm

Butter - 30 gm

Water - 60 ml

 

Egg - 2 no.

Lemon Zest - 1 no.

Vanilla Bean - 1 no.

Method:

Make the Starter with water,yeast, sugar, flour & egg yolk and Refrigerate for 2 hours.

Mix egg yolk, egg,yellow co-lour and water together.

Mix softened butter. lemon zest ,& vanilla bean in the above mix.

Finally fold in flour and knead for a few minutes.

Add starter in the above mix

Knead the mix to make a dough.

Prove the dough to attain required volume.

Knock back and put the dough in the Pandoro mould.

Prove it till it comes to 3⁄4 of the mould.

Bake it at 170 C for 20 min.

Serve it with Pomegranate salad and Crème Fraiche.

About Chef Vivek:

 A patissier and chocolatier, Chef Vivek Chauhan is a highly accoladed Patisserie Chef with an illustrious experience of 22 years, currently associated with Le Meridien Hotel, New Delhi. An IHM, Gwalior graduate in Hotel Management, Chef Vivek's passion to learn beyond stereotypical creations and reinventions has allowed him to work with Michelin Star Chefs Allyn Williams and Chef Eric Chavot & others of International Reputees. His culinary experience includes his incredible years at various prestigious properties - Taj Mahal Hotel, One Aldwych, London, The Lancaster London, the Hilton London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5, The Westbury Mayfair, London and The Imperial, New Delhi. Chef Vivek is a recipient of multiple honours and awards; most notable among them is the most recent‘ Pastry Chef of the Year 2018' conferred upon by ICF. He has also hosted opulent dinners for the Association of Pastry Chefs and Craft Guild of Chefs in the UK.