IHG solidifies presence in Punjab with signing of Holiday Inn Amritsar Golden Temple

The company continues to actively expand its mainstream portfolio catering to growing demand for branded hotels in tier II markets

New Delhi, 28th March, 2023: IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies has signed a management agreement with Amritsar Golden Hospitality LLP to develop the new Holiday Inn Amritsar Golden Temple in Punjab. Expected to open in Q2 2027, the newly built hotel will add 215 keys to IHG’s burgeoning portfolio in the city and strengthen its presence in the prime tourist destination of Punjab.  This would be IHG’s third hotel in the city along with Holiday Inn Amritsar Ranjit Avenue and Holiday Inn Express Amritsar Golden Temple, which is scheduled to open in 2025.

Conveniently located in the heart of city centre and short walking distance from eminent spiritual site of Golden Temple, Holiday Inn Amritsar Golden Temple will benefit from excellent visibility and accessibility. Amritsar is one of the most popular tourist destinations and second largest city in Punjab, home to the world-famous Golden Temple, and a hub of textiles and handicrafts industries in India. Additionally, the hotel will be situated in close proximity of 2 km from the railway station and 13 km from the airport. Once opened, the hotel will be one of the most sought after branded accommodations, catering to all segments of leisure, spiritual and business travelers.

Holiday Inn Amritsar Golden Temple will feature well-equipped modern rooms and state-of-the-art facilities including all day dining, a lobby lounge, a swimming pool and a gymnasium. It will also have a 2000 sq. ft meeting room catering to the growing demand from MICE and social events, and will offer a comfortable stay experience enhanced through brand’s signature hospitality.

Commenting on the announcement, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG said, “We are delighted to partner with Amritsar Golden Hospitality LLP to bring our third Holiday Inn hotel in the city and strengthen our mainstream portfolio in Punjab. Amritsar is a hotspot pilgrimage centre due to the presence of Golden Temple. Rich in history, culture, food, and as a textiles’ hub, the city has a strong appeal for both leisure and business travelers. The introduction of Holiday Inn Amritsar Golden Temple at a sought-after location would be an excellent addition to the IHG portfolio in the region.

He further added, “In line with increasing demand, we recognize the growing potential of secondary markets in India and are strategically expanding our presence to fill the need gap of quality branded accommodation and unparalleled service. With the signing of Holiday Inn Amritsar Golden Temple, IHG aims to offer differentiated hospitality experience to guests coming in from all parts of the world”.

Tejinder Singh, Managing Partner at Amritsar Golden Hospitality LLP added, “We are thrilled to partner with an internationally and locally trusted hospitality brand like IHG to venture into our first branded hotel project. Holiday Inn is one of the most recognized brands across the world offering a consistent and comfortable experience. With a combination of an excellent location and IHG’s strength and scale of global systems, technology and loyalty programme, we are confident that the new hotel will be a popular choice when it opens its door to guests.”

Lemon Tree Hotels launches its fifth property in Kerala withKeys Prima by Lemon Tree Hotels, Thekkady

The hotel overlooks the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary and features 42 well-appointed rooms, multi-cuisine dining options and a fitness center for a perfect getaway

New Delhi, March 2023: Lemon Tree Hotels Limited announced the opening of its latest hotel – Keys Prima by Lemon Tree Hotels, Thekkady in Kerala.

Strategically located near Kumily, a gateway town into Kerala, the hotel is perfectly suited for travelers who want to soak in the tranquillity of nature. This property features 42 well-appointed rooms, complemented by a multi-cuisine restaurant, a meeting room, a fitness center, and banquets along with other public areas including Keys Garden, the pristine green space, overlooking the surrounding lush hilly areas making it perfect for outdoor parties and get–togethers.

Thekkady, home to the largest wildlife sanctuary in India, the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, is a dream destination for any tourist visiting India. It is a reservoir of several endangered species and rich tribal culture. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 777 sq. kms, surrounded by the Periyar Lake spread over 25 sq. kms. The 120 years old 'Surki' dam, built across Peryiar, is a major tourist attraction. Thekkady offers several activities like boating, bamboo rafting, nature walk, elephant ride, jeep safari, trekking, and much more.

The Nedumbassery airport in Kochi is about 190 km away. The nearest railway station is at Kottayam which is 114 km from Thekkady.

ABOUT LEMON TREE HOTELS LIMITED

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited (LTHL) is one of the largest hotel chains in India on the basis of controlling interest in owned and leased rooms, the sixth largest by consolidated inventory, and the largest in the mid-market hotel sector. LTHL operates across the upscale, upper-midscale, midscale and economy segments, and delivers differentiated yet superior service offerings, with a compelling value proposition.

LTHL opened its first hotel with 49 rooms in May 2004 and currently operates ~8,400 rooms in 88 hotels across 54 destinations. When the current pipeline becomes operational, LTHL will be operating ~11,650 rooms in 130 hotels across 84 destinations. The group offers seven brands to meet guests’ needs across all levels, viz. Aurika Hotels & Resorts, Lemon Tree Premier, Lemon Tree Hotels, Red Fox by Lemon Tree Hotels, Keys Prima by Lemon Tree Hotels, Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels and Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels.

Lemon Tree Hotels are located across India, in metro regions including the NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai, as well as numerous tier I, II and III cities such as Pune, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Indore, Aurangabad, Udaipur, Vishakhapatnam, Kochi, Ludhiana, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada etc. The company expanded internationally with hotels opening in Dubai in December 2019 and in Bhutan in February 2020. New hotels are also set to open internationally in Bhutan and Nepal.

The Reborn Icon of the Riviera. Introducing Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel

March 2023: A jewel of the Cote d’Azur revered by cinema stars, creatives, diplomats and presidents for decades has returned to write the next chapter in its centennial history. The iconic Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury & lifestyle portfolio and owned by Katara Hospitality, reopened its doors on 13 March 2023.

The epitome of elegance and the ‘Grande Dame’ of Cannes’ hotel scene, the property’s majestic Belle Epoque façade - framed by twin domes - has been breathtakingly restored giving new life to this historic gem. With 332 rooms and suites – 72 of which have a sea view - and 37 branded residences, the hotel has been reimagined by acclaimed French interior designer Tristan Auer, famed for his careful-yet-bold approach to heritage buildings and bespoke work for the likes of Cartier

General Manager Giuseppe Vincelli said: "We are thrilled to reopen the doors of this wonderful building and truly look forward to welcoming our guests, loyal and new. What we have in this building now is a stunning blend of heritage and modernity, between our legacy and the many innovations we cannot wait to unveil.  This beauty of contrasts has been our leitmotiv. It mirrors that of this timeless Riviera elegance and the effervescence of the world-leading Festivals in the city. It creates a journey from the Croisette’s blissful hubbub to the ultimate sanctuary underpinned by true Regent service.”

The two-year grand-scale renovation skillfully preserved the hotel’s historic features including its legendary façade resulting in a modern-day masterpiece. The addition of two striking wings, measuring 20,000 square meters and home to luxury residences, envelop the rear of the property. This has created an enclosed garden landscaped with 22,000 plants and flowers, peristyle alcoves, sleek sunbathing decks, handcrafted cabanas and the largest hotel infinity pool in Cannes. In addition, the hotel also has a brand new 900m2 fitness & spa complex – The C Club - which includes a full-size boxing ring and a state-of-the-art gym, yoga and Pilates studio.

Carlton Cannes, the reborn icon of the Riviera

Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel is one of very few landmark hotels recognizable from a plane. The commanding silhouette stands as its own beachfront city block, overlooking the prestigious beachfront promenade, La Croisette. Located in the beating heart of the Cote d’Azur, Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel offers decadent surroundings complemented by indulgent guest experiences.

Amidst the unexpected harmony of Tristan Auer’s visionary design, guests will connect over uplifting curated moments, inspired by the beauty of contrasts where heritage meets modernity. Auer’s scheme seamlessly combines bold, contrasting contemporary installations with the historic fabric of the building.

Sleep & Dream

Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel has 332 luxurious rooms and suites, many with breath-taking views of the shimmering Mediterranean. Bay windows adorning multiple floors create perfect Personal Havens where guests can immerse themselves in the depth of the view. Historic balconies, spacious terraces atop the new peristyle walkways in the courtyard garden and a restored balcony on top of the hotel’s iconic front porch create more Personal Havens where guests can enjoy the vista from the privacy of their suite, with refreshments menus curated especially for that moment. Each room & suite contains a Refreshment Gallery featuring food and drink items, many of which are complimentary.  

Iconic suites

The Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel has a collection of suites. The seventh floor of the hotel has four signature suites, dutifully named to celebrate the legacy of the property. These include The Katara Suite which pays tribute to the hotel’s thoughtful custodians, in addition to The Grace Kelly Suite, The Cary Grant Suite, and The Kirk Douglas Suite.

On the sixth floor is The Alfred Hitchcock Suite which is the exact room where the famous kiss scene between Grace Kelly and Cary Grant in the master of suspense’s "To Catch a Thief" was filmed.  In the other tower on the same floor, The Suzanne Lenglen Suite, pays tribute to the eponymous tennis legend, who famously played the Match of the Century at the hotel in 1926 – spreading the love for clay courts, which started here, leading the way for Roland Garros to become the only Grand Slam tournament played on clay. 

Exclusive residences

One of the grandest additions to the hotel is the 37 elegantly designed residences, located in the two new wings. Ranging from 85 to 500m2, the residences were meticulously designed as lavish Mediterranean homes, with all the amenities for leisurely extended stays and access to all of the hotel's services, including room service, pool and wellness centre.  On the top floor is an exclusive 1,000m2 penthouse, with a grand 500m2 of living space topped by a private landscaped rooftop of the same size, which includes a private jacuzzi.

Opulent Dining  

Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel has three restaurants, three bars, a Tea Lounge and a Cigar Lounge all curated to provide a palette of experiences to wow even the most discerning of guests.

The Riviera Restaurant

Located overlooking La Croisette, the Riviera Restaurant is one of the most iconic meeting points on the seafront. Its Mediterranean elegance and vibrant atmosphere make it an all-day dining destination where discerning diners can gather from early morning through to late night to enjoy the best of traditional French brasserie cuisine.  It is a convivial space designed to embody "la joie de vivre” whether indoors or on the famous elevated south-facing terrace overlooking the sea, with outside seating for 170 guests. The Riviera Restaurant also has a Chef's Table, which faces the open kitchen, with seating for ten to 15 guests. The restaurant is overseen by Chef Laurent Bunel.

Rüya

Launching in May 2023 just before the Cannes Film Festival, Rüya will delight diners with its wondrous take on Anatolian cuisine underpinned by the warmth of Turkish hospitality. This will be the first Anatolian restaurant to open on the French Riviera. Rüya will follow celebrated openings in Mayfair London and Dubai.

Carlton Beach Club:

The Beach Club opened in 2020 having been renovated by Tristan Auer offering a freshly revised perception of the Dolce Vita lifestyle. Regardless of the season, the Carlton Beach Club welcomes guests in a chic and relaxed setting, enhanced by a sprinkling of 1950’s French Riviera glamour. Guests can either meet in the restaurant, on the beach, at the bar– or even better, on the world-renowned central pontoon admiring a uninterrupted panoramic view of the Mediterranean, the Esterel mountains and the Îles de Lérins.  It’s the perfect place to enjoy one of the Carlton’s famous decadent brioche Homer Lobster rolls or a cocktail inspired by rivieras around the world. The Carlton Beach Club is available for private hire.

Bar 58

Inspired by the hotel's iconic address, Bar 58 will be the beating heart and soul of Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel, hitting the spot with creative seasonal cocktails guided by a ‘farm to bar philosophy,’ In addition there will be fines liquors, champagnes and wines from around the globe served alongside delectable bites. The bar offers warm intimate sophistication and an elegant interior, featuring handcrafted Venini chandeliers and a bar top adorned with Raku ceramic laid like a puzzle. In the way the Carlton Cannes has done for many years, Bar°58 will be the place of high-powered discussions, new encounters and convivial moments, both indoors and on the terrace in the Mediterranean garden.

Camélia - The Tea Lounge

Aptly named Camélia, inspired by the word "Camellia Sinensis" the botanical name of the tea tree, guests can explore teas from around the world. A fully immersive sensory experience has been curated paying homage to the transport and trade on the silk road - an iconic moment that gave rise to the exchange of cultures, and movement of ideas.  A Carlton Tea Master will cultivate personalized journeys for guests to help them discover various blends and pairings, according to their mood or moment.  A space within Camélia - The Tea Lounge is dedicated to the art of preparation, where tea aficionados can be a spectator, guided by the in-house tea master.

Meet & Celebrate

The Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel now has 1,800m2 subterranean Conference Centre.

The Croisette Salon (765m2), complete with natural day light and an eye-catching suspended living green wall, is the biggest hotel ballroom in Cannes without columns or pillars, and has direct vehicle access making it perfect for car launches or substantial event rigging. It benefits also from an adjoining foyer of 261m2.

For smaller gatherings, there are five meeting rooms (from 70 to 152m²) inspired by the Cote d’Azur, all duly named after towns and villages along the coast including Cap d’Antibes, Grasse, Mougins, Saint-Paul-de-Vence

In addition to the Conference Centre, the Grand Salon has been painstakingly restored to create 384m² of luxury events space with direct views of the sea and the garden, and bold chandeliers crafted by artisans who also worked on the Palace of Versailles.   

The Regent Touch

The addition of Carlton Cannes to the Regent Hotels & Resorts portfolio marks an historic milestone. Regent Hotels & Resorts joined IHG Hotels & Resorts in 2018.

Tom Rowntree, Vice President of Luxury Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “The return of Carlton Cannes and the launch of the new era of Regent marks the next chapter being penned, where history melts into the future. Regent and the Carlton are coming together to characterise a spectacular long-lasting legacy. Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel will incite curiosity for generations to come with forward looking luxury experiences. This hotel blends Belle Epoque joie-de-vivre, impeccable craft and the energy of the ultimate destination in the way only the Regent brand can.”

Chief Executive Officer Nasser Matar Alkawari, from Katara Hospitality - owners of Carlton Cannes, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be working with IHG to transform the Carlton Cannes into a Regent Hotel, providing an inspiring gateway from which to explore the wonders of the French Riviera.  Our aim is to deliver the serene and sensational at every turn. Our significant and continued investment will ensure that the hotel will stand the test of time for many years to come.”

The opening of Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel is an exciting addition to IHG’s growing luxury and lifestyle portfolio, which includes iconic properties in destinations such as Hong Kong, London, New York, Dubai, Paris and Singapore. Guests will also have access to a best-in-class loyalty program, IHG One Rewards, which is centered around its guests – giving them richer benefits and more ways to earn than ever before, all powered by leading technology on its new mobile app.

Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel will join Regent Chongqing, Regent Shanghai, Regent Phu Quoc and the soon-to-open Regent Hong Kong in crafting the most refined experiences for modern trendsetters.  This opening is set to be closely followed by Regent Bali and Regent Shanghai On The Bund in late 2023, as well as a to-be-announced North American location

GOLDEN TULIP LAUNCHES CLUB DES CHEFS -INDIA EDITION

Golden Tulip, the most distinguished hotel brand of Paris-based hospitality outfit, Louvre Hotel Group, operated by Sarovar Hotels, is scheduled to launch its much-celebrated international gourmet program, Club Des Chefs in India. The event will take place at Hotel Marine Plaza, a Sarovar Premiere Hotel, in Mumbai from 29th to 31st March 2023.

Club Des Chefs is a gathering of expert chefs from Golden Tulip Hotels, who coming together to share recipes and concepts in the realm of high-end cuisine. It provides a unique opportunity to have an authentic and continuously fresh gastronomic experience for their patrons.

The India edition will witness the participation of chefs from regions across France, the Middle East, and Indonesia. During the 3-day event, the chefs will share their regions’ signature dishes and study the culinary landscape of Indian cuisine, while giving workshops, interactive sessions, and local market visits.

The DNA of Golden Tulip restaurant’s concept includes local produce. All would be prepared on-site and delicately spiced with flavors from exotic locations from international experiences.

Based on their collective learning and insights, Chefs develop innovative dishes that resonate with local tastes and preferences, with an international twist. Chosen signature dishes will feature in the Golden Tulip hotels menu.

About Golden Tulip

The Golden Tulip hotel chain was founded in the early 60s with the opening of the first Golden Tulip hotels in the Netherlands. It went on to experience constant growth, expanding throughout the world while striving to remain attentive to changes in customer needs and demands. Today a part of Louvre Hotels Group, the brand boasts over 190 high-end hotels in 44 countries. Each hotel is committed to high-quality standards infused with the personality of its manager and steeped in local culture. The Golden Tulip hotels have a lighthearted outlook on life, work, and travel. Adapted to the lifestyles of today’s business travelers, these hotels invite clients to combine business and pleasure, enabling them to experience and share unique, fun-filled moments and memories.

The Vitskamats Group is on an expansion spree with their new hotel- VITS Surat, in the business hub of the city

Surat March 2023

The Vitskamats Group, a leading hospitality company, has announced the launch of its new hotel in Surat, Gujarat. The hotel, named VITS Surat, is located in Varachha, which is very close to the railway station and is set to be the new business hotel of the city. With spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites, VITS Surat is designed to cater to business travelers. 

When asked Dr. Vikram Kamat, Chairman and Founder of the Vitskamats Group about what was the overall aim behind opening a hotel in Surat, he mentioned, “As a brand, we already have established ourselves in Gujrat with properties in Silvassa, Daman, Amreli, Somnath, Dwarka, and Ankleshwar and now Surat being one of the leading financial markets in Gujarat, we are thrilled to announce the launch of VITS Surat, further strengthening our position in the state. We believe that our new hotel will be a valuable addition to the city's hospitality landscape."

VITS Surat is also equipped with modern amenities such as comfortable beds, high-speed Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs, among others. The hotel has an in-house restaurant- the iconic Kamats, offering a wide range of culinary options to suit every taste. With the launch of VITS Surat, the Vitskamats Group continues its expansion spree, adding their another prestigious property to its portfolio of hotels and resorts across India.

Tales of the Coast in the Capital: Karavalli’s Cruise to Varq

Chef Arun Sundararaj, Director of Culinary Operations, Taj Mahal, New Delhi with Celebrated Chef Naren Thimmaiah, Executive Chef, Vivanta Bengaluru, Residency Road at Taj Mahal’s iconic restaurant Varq 

New Delhi, March 2023: The timeless Taj Mahal, New Delhi and its award-winning restaurant Varq proudly welcomed the culinary legend of the south – Karavalli from Vivanta Bengaluru, Residency Road. This year, as Varq embarks on its 15th-year anniversary voyage, it will feature unique gastronomic pop-ups, new innovations and reinvented concepts in the year ahead.

Varq, symbolic of preciousness, luxury and elegance, is the birthplace of modern Indian cuisine in the Capital. Karavalli’s voyage to Varq, was the perfect marriage of authentic Indian southwest coastal cuisine with contemporary flair and artistic presentation. The unique pop-up presented an exquisite experience wherein culinary legend Chef Naren Thimmaiah, from Karavalli, showcased a special coastal menu celebrating authentic flavours and treasured recipes.

The uniquely curated presentation included dishes like Malabar Prawn Roast, Meen Porichathu (Shallow Fried Black Pomfret), Calamari Fry, Attirachy Ularthu (Lamb Roast) Chattambade (Fried Lentil Patties), Patrade (Colocasia Leaf Roll), Chevod Balchao (Lobster in Pickled Spice), Alappuzha Meen Curry (Alleppy Fish Curry), Pachakkari Stew (Vegetable Stew), Kashi Halwa (Ah Gourd Pudding) and Ragi Manni (Finger Millet Pudding).

Celebrated Chef Naren Thimmaiah, Executive Chef, Vivanta Bengaluru, Residency Road said, “I am delighted to return to the iconic Taj Mahal, New Delhi and its renowned restaurant Varq. Karavalli’s coastal delicacies have made their way into the heart of the South and we can’t wait to share our passion with patrons of Delhi-NCR. We take pride in our authenticity, the promise of quality and the connection with our roots. With the capital’s bustling culture of food, there couldn’t have been a better place than Varq, the birth place of modern Indian cuisine in New Delhi, to showcase our special Karavalli culinary art.”

Speaking on the occasion, Chef Arun Sundararaj, Director of Culinary Operations at Taj Mahal, New Delhi said, “We have been committed to offering immersive dining experiences to our patrons. Varq has been the one stop dining destination for celebrating the unique flavours of India, pop-ups by Michelin Starred Chefs from around the globe and for curating culinary art and innovation. Chef Naren Thimmaiah is a legend in the epicurean world and we are humbled to welcome him once again at Varq.  The confluence of Karavalli and Varq will present a tantalizing experience of exotic coastal recipes combined with fine dining with art.”

Chef Naren Thimmaiah has been the face of the iconic Karavalli for over two decades. He holds the distinction of participating in the World Gourmet Summit held at Singapore in the year 2005. In February 2009, at the Government of India, National Tourism awards held at New Delhi, Naren Thimmaiah was adjudged as the Best Chef of India. Economic Times rated Chef Naren Thimmaiah among Top 10 Chefs of India – 5th place. December 2018, Times Food & Nightlife Awards – Chef Naren Thimmaiah was awarded Chef of the Year.  In August 2019, at the Eazydiner Awards, Naren Thimmaiah was awarded The Lifetime Achievement Award. In March 2022, he was recognized among the Top 10 Chefs in India by Culinary Culture.

Chef Naren’s contribution has ensured Karavalli being listed among the finest:

1. Asia’s 100 Best Restaurants (2022)

2. 50 Best Restaurants in Asia (St. Pellegrino in 2013 & 2014)

3. Top 100 Restaurants in the World in the hugely popular FOODIE GUIDE 2014 by Glam Media.

4. 1001 Restaurants - You must Experience before you Die – Jenny Linford

5. The New York Times – 36 Hours – Asia & Oceania

Venue:                 Varq at Taj Mahal, New Delhi
Dates:                   23rd to 25th March, 2023
Price:                    INR 6000 plus taxes

Lunch:                   12:30 PM to 2:45 PM

Dinner:                 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM

About Varq

Varq was launched in 2008, as Delhi’s first and finest modern Indian restaurant in Taj Mahal, New Delhi. Varq is the unfurling of luxury in all aspects - a combination of sophisticated dining discreet service and exquisite interiors. The restaurant specializes in contemporary Indian cuisine and has pioneered the concept of pre-plated Indian food. In recent years, Varq unveiled an all new artistic gourmet canvas wherein each dish is a masterpiece in itself with a hint of exotic flavours and rustic ingredients. Varq is a perfect example of marriage of fine dining with art. The restaurant celebrates the treasured artworks by renowned artist Anjolie Ela Menon curated over 45 years ago and has been an inspiration for the innovative and artistic culinary presentation. In contrast, additional modern artworks compliment the restaurant in the form of oil paintings, carvings, antiques and modern sculptures.

For more information, please contact:
Bhavna Mehta: bhavna.mehta@tajhotels.com  

NAAC Supported 13th India International Hotel Travel and Tourism Research Conference “Green Investment, Inclusive Growth & Digital Futures”

It gives us immense pleasure to invite you for the 13th India International Hotel, Travel & Tourism Research Conference 2023 on “Green Investment, Inclusive growth & Digital Futures in Tourism & Hospitality”  during 4th - 5th April 2023 aimed at learning from the best practices adopted by the active players in the Hospitality & Tourism trade around the world. The Conference will provide a distinctive opportunity to share knowledge with the experts and focus on revised strategies in the Tourism and Hospitality field with a global perspective.

Amidst the theme of Tourism & Green Investment proposed by UNWTO for the year 2023, the conference intends to address, discuss and devise future strategies also for Inclusive growth and Digital futures along with Green Investment in Hospitality & Tourism Sector. The aim of 13 th India International Hotel, Travel Tourism Research Conference is to bring together a unique and international mix of experts, researchers and decision makers both from academia and industry across the globe to exchange their knowledge, experience and research innovations to highlight and deliver best possible outcome to discourse the chosen components of the theme i.e. Green Investment, Inclusive Growth & Digital Futures. 

Conference Highlights will be:-

1. International Collaboration with Euro Asia Tourism Research Association (EATSA).

2. Eminent Speaker from Industry & Academic to share their expertise, learning and experience with the conference audiences.

3. Expert delebrations on key themes of the conference, but not limited to Green Investment, Inclusive Growth & Digital Futures in Tourism & Hospitality by Researchers & Academicians from India & Abroad.

4. Two Research workshops on Bibliometric Research & Systematic Literature Review to promote and support quality research learning among the Phd Scholars, Young Researchers and Students of Hospitality & Tourism.

5. Excellent opportunity for networking and collaboration with Researchers and Academicians across the globe.

We look forward to your kind presence in the IIHTTR Conference 2023.

Team IIHM upsets Hyatt Regency in finals to lift the PHAPL.5 Cup

PHAPL 5.0 Inter-Hotel Cricket Tournament organized by Poona Hoteliers Association at Azam Campus Grounds Pune a Huge Success. Team IIHM upsets Hyatt Regency in finals to lift the PHAPL.5 Cup.

It was yet another historic day wherein The Executive Committee of The Poona Hoteliers Association (PHA) successfully effectuated the 5th Edition of its Premiere League Cricket Tournament at the Azam Campus Grounds on 18th March’23

The 5-day Tournament was ceremoniously inaugurated on 14th March’23 by Mr. Rahul Singh former Indian Olympic Hockey player in the gracious presence of Mr. P. A Inamdar, Chairman of Haji Gulam Mohammad Azam Education Trust. 

As always it was a colorful spectacle, full of enthusiasm, excitement, vigour, zest & zeal with an all-time high participation of 36 Teams from various Hotels and Hotel Management Institutes rearing to enter the field and display their cricketing talent. The Ground had a strength of over 1000 super excited spectators from the Hospitality Fraternity in a sporty mood, all set to cheer their respective teams to victory. The tournament was livestreamed on YouTube which gathered a strong traction of over 15 k viewership of hoteliers & their families and friends also the tournament was made live on Screens across various hotels in Pune City.

Mr. Amit Sharma, President -of Poona Hoteliers Association and the entire PHAPL 5.0 Organising Committee had the following common inaugural message for all present “Let this prestigious n popular Cricket Tournament be the start of many such sports n related activities & let the best team win wherein Mr. Rahul Singh aptly mentioned to “ Play Tough but not Rough” The dignitaries further encouraged the Teams to “Play Well, Play Hard but Play Fair”. 

This Tournament post-pandemic has evolved to another high and for the first time Live Screening of all 52 matches over 5 days was successfully televised. Like any other International Cricketing action here too, complete match scores &  related analysis were professionally executed. The viewership from 1000 on-field spectators went up in multiples touching a number of over 15000 with colleagues at work and families at home joining in the action. Even rain and thunder could not dampen the spirits of the participating teams and the Director of the Tournament, Manu and the Groundsmen Parmeshwar did a fabulous job in maintaining the continuity of the League. 

For the first time in the Premier League’s history of 5 years we had a new Winner wherein the IIHM, Pune lifted the much coveted Trophy defeating Hyatt Regency, Pune who were in turn were the Runners-up. Corinthians Club &Resorts and Sayaji Hotel were the other two teams to reach the Top Four. 

Man of the Series was awarded to Laxman Dandale of The Corinthians Club & Resorts.

Best Batsman of the Tournament to Harshvardhan Satav of IIHM, 

Best Bowler of the Tournament to Aryan Pawar of IIHM and 

The Man of the Match for the Finals was won by Wakar Khan from IIHM.

After 4 extremely successful Inter Hotel Cricket Tournaments,  PHAPL 5.0 was the 5th in the series of this extremely popular and the most sought-after sporting action amongst the Pune Hospitality Fraternity and the credit for its Super Success goes to the following PHAPL 5.0 Cricket Tournament Organising Committee Members - Amit Sharma, Sharan Shetty, Prapti Deshpande, Sumit Sharma, Vinay Nair, Anurag Raha, Sandeep Singh, Biswajit Biswas, Pankaj Saxena & Sanjay Singh. In addition to the above Arun Nayyar, Shrinivas Chaphalkar, C R Vinoj & Vaibhav Lamba were also involved and present for the inaugural and closing ceremony of the PHAPL 5.0. The PHA Executive Committee is all excited and geared up to take PHAPL 6.0 2024 to even greater heights.

Radisson Blu Kaushambi Honors Women’s World Boxing Champions with Felicitation Ceremony

Kaushambi, India – Radisson Blu Kaushambi, the 5-star hotel in Ghaziabad, felicitated the gold medalists of the Women’s World Boxing Championship held at Indira Gandhi Stadium. Indian women boxers won 4 gold medals at the championship, and the winners were Nikhat Zareen, Saweety Boora, Lovlina Borgohain, and Nitu Ghanghas.

The felicitation ceremony was held at Radisson Blu Kaushambi, where the Indian Boxing team was staying during the championship. Mr. Navneet Jain, Group CEO of Radisson Blu Kaushambi and Radisson Blu Towers, thanked the entire team of the Boxing Federation of India for choosing their hotel for the stay. The international coach of the women's boxing team, Dmitry Dmitruk, and the Indian Coach, Bhaskar Bhatt, also expressed their gratitude to the hotel for their great hospitality and world-class services.

The hotel organised a small press conference to congratulate the winners and showcase their commitment to supporting and promoting sports in the community. The winners were presented with shawls and bouquets by Mr. Navneet Jain, Group CEO, and Mr. V K Sharma, Group VP Finance.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Navneet Jain said, "We are proud to have hosted the Indian Boxing team and honored these talented women who have made India proud with their incredible achievements. It is our privilege to support and promote sports in the community, and we hope to continue doing so in the future."

The entire team of Radisson Blu Kaushambi along with the players, coaches and other team management, celebrated this day no less than any festival. The hotel remains committed to supporting and promoting sports and athletes in the community and looks forward to more such events in the future.

Ingredient Ideology | SUMMER SPECIAL: A SPROUTY FARE By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani: Celebrity Master Chef.

SUMMER SPECIAL: A SPROUTY FARE

It’s always good to have a varied choice of ingredients in our plate be it the fresh pick of the day or a simple meal keeping in mind the nutrient balance and colors to get appeased by and prepare the palate to a treat!

Sprouts is one of my all-time favorite choice to work with be it a breakfast or an evening snack or even a quick toss salad in minutes, it has always been a value added pop in since it has a bunch of beneficial qualities which can help us to stay fit and be healthy.

I often came across guests who loved sprouts in various forms and would love one of your meals per day to include a good handful of them at their best ideally not to be cooked too much. Having tried a number of legumes and pulses in their sprouted form not only added a bit of spark into the new format of the dishes but also offered a single new variety per day to add to the recipes and present something better than the previous day.

For most of us sprouts start from the green moong sprouts to the long Chinese version of the sprouts ones which go well into spring rolls, stir-fries and noodles.

“Sprouts are an interesting ingredient to work with since it offers loads of freshness, crunch, and texture all of it in a good quantity to balance our diets. Steam, Stir-fry, and Saute are some of the best ways to enjoy them with a perfect bite to add value added nutrition in cooking a variety of recipes & I always suggest when in doubts go for Sprouts”- Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef.

Health Benefits of Sprouts:

To list a basic variety of sprouts from the moong, alfalfa, lentil sprouts, kidney bean sprouts, soybean sprouts, wheat sprouts to the black-eyed bean sprouts and the like there is a whole lot of variety available.

Sprouts are rich in folate, good choice for pregnant women.

They also prevent constipation and keep the track clear.

They are rich in fiber, vitamins like A, C, K making it a great source of nutrients

Sprouts are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, magnesium, iron and calcium.

It is a rich source of enzymes and essentials to good health.

Sprouts also assist a lot in weight loss management, helps lower the cholesterol.

Is a good immunity-boosting ingredient, low in fat content.

It is also beneficial for our eyes, skin and bones, they not only increase the blood circulation but also prevents the thickening of the blood.

Culinary Uses of Sprouts:

• Most of us love sprouting our own varieties and its fun to wait and see them germinate and grow in the muslin cloth and looking at them all set to be eaten is a great feel by itself.

• Chickpeas, red lentils like orange masoor, usal and the varieties are quite popular with us in Indian cooking as well.

• Sprouts can add in well into soups, ideally the clear ones.

• Toss them up in a combination fashion in a light lemon, honey, ginger dressing and few bits of fresh fruits, tomatoes etc on a bed of crispy lettuce is good to go.

• Some like it steamed a little as well with some add on flavors like fresh basil, nuts, a few spices, sauces etc.

• They are a good option to add into various stir fry recipes from the Chinese, to the Malaysian stir fry, the Mongolian hot pot also includes a good crunch from the sprouts.

• I also like to add them into a Buddha bowl, the Burmese Khow-Suey and also into Thai curries as they just give me that perfect touch of crunch in them.

• Sprouts in a simple egg fried rice with spring onion greens taste good too.

• Sprouted choice of ingredients with cream cheese in mini cocktail samosas, veg cigars, stuffing for parathas etc.

• Sprouts in a raita format with crushed peanuts and mint leaves with a touch of roasted crushed jeera is just awesome.

• Add a few sprouts to a coconut based Indian style curry and have it with steamed white rice, it’s amazing.

• Sprouts with fresh methi in a pulao or a steamed rice preparation with tomato rice tempered with curry leaves and mustard seeds is simply awesome to have with a bowl of rasam.

Here are a couple of my recipes for our readers to try out and enjoy the spirit of Sprouts!

Recipe -1] NUTRI-RICH SPROUTS TOSS SALAD

Ingredients

Green moong sprouts/ or any of your choice- 2 cups,

washed and steamed for 2 to 3 mins- optional.

For the base of the salad:

Assorted lettuce leaves- 2 cups

For the body of the salad:

Assorted sprouts- 2 cups

Green/black grapes- ½ cup sliced

Mint leaves- 10-12 no

Apple- ½ no, cubed

Cucumber- ½ cubed

Tomato-1/2 no, cubed

For the dressing:

Lime juice- 2 tbsp.

Black salt/ pink salt- 1/2 tsp

Orange segments- ½ cup

Olive oil-1 tbsp.

Honey- 1 tbsp.

Flaxseeds/ chia seeds/ pumpkin seeds- 1 tsp of your choice

For the garnish of the salad:

Pomegranate seeds-1/2 cup

Black/green olives- 2 to 3 no for garnish

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the salad.

2. In a salad bowl, combine together the sprouts with the other parts of the body of the salad.

3. Add in the ingredients for the dressing and toss well.

4. Prepare a bed of crispy lettuce leaves and portion it out.

5.Add seeds/leaves or garnish as per choice and serve.

Chefs Variations: for non-veg- can try boiled cubed eggs, sliced chicken sausages, ham or salami.

Also try adding saute prawns, lobster or crab meat as well in a salad with sprouts for a nice texture and crunch.

Also try using a little garlic and ginger/ lemon grass/ basil and other fresh herbs as a part of the dressing.

Recipe-2: MOONG SPROUTS BEMISAAL

Ingredients

Sprouts- 2 cups, assorted/ of your choice.

Olive oil- 2 tbsp.

Garlic-1 tsp chopped

Dry red chilies-1-2 no

Lemon grass- 3 to 4 pieces

Red/green/yellow bell peppers- ½ each, cut into thin slices

Shallots- 4 to 5 no’s, peeled and cut into quarters or use onions

Broccoli- 4 to 5 florets- blanched

Yellow zucchini- ½ cup, cubes

Salt and pepper to taste

Turmeric powder-1/4 tsp

White vinegar-1 tsp

Soy sauce- 1 tsp

Cherry tomatoes-1-2 no

Red chili sauce- 1 tsp

Mixed herbs- 1 tsp

Roasted crushed peanuts- 2 tbsp.

Spring onion greens- 2 tbsp. garnish.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the tossed recipe.

2. Heat oil in a pan, add in the shallots, red chilies, onions and cook for 20 seconds, add in the veggies, sprouts and seasonings, sauces and toss well.

3. Cook on a medium high flame for 3 to 4 mins, add seasonings, turmeric etc as per taste and mix, cook for 3-5 mins.

4. Add in the peanuts and spring onion greens, cherry tomatoes, and serve hot.

Chefs variations:

Try adding sliced boiled chicken into the toss recipe.

Prawns, fish, assorted seafood also works well.

Marinated tofu or paneer can be a good choice too.

Try adding a little brown sugar and little schezuan sauce in the same dish.

Recipe-3] DESI TADKE WALE SPROUTS

Ingredients:

Moong/green sprouts- 1 and a half cup, washed.

Oil- 1 tsp

Ghee-1 tsp

Hing-1/4 tsp

Mustard seeds-1/2 tsp

Cumin seeds-1/2 tsp

Curry leaves- 3-4 no

Slit green chilies- 1-2 no

Dry red chilies-1-2 no

Onions- 1 small chopped

Ginger-1 tsp chopped

Garlic-1 tsp chopped

Tomatoes-1/2 cup chopped

Salt to taste

Red chili powder-1/2 tsp

Turmeric powder-1/4 tsp

Coriander powder- 1 tsp

Water-1/2 cup

Grated coconut-1/4 cup

Fresh coriander leaves- 2-3 tbsp. chopped

Lime juice- 2- 3 tsp

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the desi tadka sprouts.

2. Heat oil and ghee and saute the spices, adding them one by one into the pan and allow to crackle and splutter for a few seconds.

3. Add in the onions and saute until pink and add little water as needed to soften them well. Add in the chopped tomatoes and all spices, salt to taste and cover and cook for 5-7 mins on low flame.

4. Now add in the sprouts and mix, simmer and cook for 8-10 mins and finally add in the coconut, coriander, lime juice and serve it hot.

Chefs variations:

Try the same sprouts variety by adding fresh garden veggies like cubes of carrots, beetroot, sweet potatoes, capsicums.

I also prefer to add a few assorted sprouted pulses as well in the same recipe to add more color, crunch and mouthfeel.

Also try the same recipe in a curried form by adding fresh coconut milk into this recipe and have it with steamed rice, phulkas or brown rice.

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr announces water-from-air bottling plant

A first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates, The Fairmont Bab Al Bahr’s water bottling plant will use advanced technology to produce water from air. This air-to-water process utilises Atmospheric Water Generator, an innovative solution developed by Eshara Water.

Once produced, the water will be filtered and mineralized, and then filled into reusable, encapsulated glass bottles. Serving a total of 367 luxurious rooms, suites, and villas, as well as all restaurants across the hotel, the plant will produce a total of 4,000 liters of water per day.

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Experiencing rare wildlife in India and overseas just got more accessible

Just Nature Expeditions launches with transformational and sustainable wildlife expeditions to remote lands across the world. 

March 2023: Just Nature Expeditions, a wildlife travel specialist and expedition provider has recently launched with unique travel ideas aimed at providing transformational wildlife experiences to remote lands across the world. Offering a range of itineraries and interest-based wildlife experiences, the carefully crafted expeditions unravel the mysteries of the jungles, consciously and responsibly.

 Travellers can choose from an array of pre-designed itineraries that trek the slopes of Ladakh in search of the elusive snow leopards, encounter the jaguars in the Brazilian Pantanal, unravel the wilderness of Borneo and Sri Lanka, look for the Red Pandas in India’s northeast or witnessing the Great Migration in Maasai Mara. Each expedition is thoughtfully designed and planned, seamlessly reflecting the spirit of the local environment as well as the residing communities with authenticity and humility. Accommodations are handpicked by the team keeping in mind originality, travellers’ comfort and ensuring that the land isn’t overburdened, and typically include immersive accommodations and locally owned homestays amidst the wilderness.

Aly Rashid, the founder and Director of Just Nature Expeditions, an experienced naturalist and tour leader from the company personally leads the expeditions along with other highly trained and knowledgeable tour leaders, ensuring they are not only enjoyable but also educational.

“While our specialist team have been creating bespoke and transformational wildlife travel experiences for small groups and individuals with special interests for some years now, we have officially launched Just Nature Expeditions recently. We thrive on sharing our deep connection with wildlife and hope to inspire a love for nature and wildlife conservation through these expeditions” says Aly. No stranger to the travel world, Aly is a trained naturalist and ornithologist. His tryst with wildlife began in his early childhood years, a passion that led him to start the highly acclaimed, conservation-focussed Reni Pani Jungle Lodge and Bori Safari Lodge in the Satpura forests. Aly also contributes extensively to various conservation projects in the region.

Just Nature Expeditions is committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and sustainability and adheres to all local and international regulations and guidelines.

About Just Nature Expeditions India

Just Nature Expeditions (JNE) offers transformational journeys seeking rare wildlife in remote lands in Asia, Africa and South America. The expeditions offered by JNE are curated and guided by expert naturalists, and are perfectly suited for anyone with an interest to witness wilderness at its best. While guests travel with JNE they immerse in extraordinary wildlife moments while treading lightly on the environment. Each accommodation is hand-picked by our team keeping in mind authenticity, traveller comfort and blends in with the ethos of the local community and environment. Our expedition leaders have extensive knowledge of the landscapes we visit leading to unparalleled natural history moments being witnessed. From trekking to find the elusive Snow Leopard or Red Panda, to photographing the Jaguars of Pantanal or experiencing the spectacle of the great migration in East Africa and more, there is something on offer for every wildlife enthusiast

An Intimate Meal in the Majesty of a Private Waterfall in Vietnam

A secluded retreat in Mai Chau launches new dining options for waterfall dining experience

HANOI (March 23, 2023) - While hotels often serve up a unique dining opportunity or two for guests, few can compete with Avana Retreat, a resort in Vietnam that evolved around a once hidden waterfall deep in the mountains of Mai Chau. This month the hillside resort is rolling out a selection of new menus to be enjoyed by this one-of-a-kind waterside perch.

The towering limestone cliffs, where the waterfall reaches its peak height, form the backdrop for intimate meals set to the sounds of nature at its most raw. The setting has been left as untouched as possible. A raised walkway weaves through the old growth trees to a wooden platform at the waterfall’s base. Bookable for private dinners and intimate group parties, the deck features a kitchen, where chef and server work in unison to deliver multi-course meals, and an elevated platform area where a small band could share a performance. The whole scene is lit by the warm glow of dozens of handcrafted lanterns that are peppered throughout the space.

The experience is private with only one small group, family, friends or couples able to book the waterfall dining experience each evening. Guests have the choice of four five-course menus, two of which have just been launched. The Vietnamese Signature menu is abundant in seafood with dishes such as grilled catfish served with rice noodles and local herbs and Vietnamese spicy & sour seafood soup. A plant-based option has been added with creative fare including a burrata and tomato salad with asparagus saffron dressing and mushroom tortellini with a carrot puree and almond foam.

The Chef’s Special and a Sense of Romance, have a European touch with courses like Beef Wellington, a popular British dish, and Lobster Cognac Flambe. Local elements include a Cao Phong Orange Mousse, made from the Cao Phong oranges that are a specialty of the province, and smoked duck breast.

As an avid explorer, Avana Retreat’s founder Mr. Vu Huy, was hiking in the region over a decade ago when he had a gut feeling there was a waterfall hidden amid the forest. Locals couldn’t confirm his hunch so he set out to follow the stream and was rewarded for his efforts. The majestic cascade inspired him to develop the property to share his find, but to do so in a way that would protect the surrounding environment while giving travelers a chance to experience the awe he felt.

“Our waterfall is the heart of the retreat,” said Mr. Vu Huy. “We also realize that the way to a person’s heart is often through their stomach. We wanted to combine stellar food with an incomparable backdrop to touch their hearts and help our guests create a lifelong memory of their time in Vietnam.”

Course menus start at 4,500,000 VND ++ / pax or 9,000,000 VND ++ for two people, exclusive of wine. Reservations are essential with a recommendation to book well in advance as there is only one seating per evening. The waterfall area is also bookable for small group celebrations with the capacity to cater for up to 30 guests. For more information visit: https://avanaretreat.com/cuisine

The Pride Hotels Group announces the launch of Pride Hotel Rishikesh

The Pride Hotels Group is proud to announce the launch of Pride Hotel Rishikesh in Uttarakhand. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Pride Hotel Rishikesh offers guests breathtaking views of the entire valley. Centrally located at Tapovan, Badrinath Road this mesmerizing hotel can easily be accessed by road, rail, and air via Dehradun airport. The hotel's grand opening was held on Sunday, 19th March 2023, and was officially inaugurated by the Honourable Cabinet Minister of Uttarakhand, Mr. Subhodh Uniyal.

Announcing the launch Atul Upadhyay, Senior Vice President, Pride Hotels Group said “We are delighted to announce the opening of Pride Hotel Rishikesh in Devbhumi Uttrakhand. Popularly referred to as the world's yoga capital, the holy city is renowned for some of the most famous tourist attractions including the Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, and Triveni Ghat. The region attracts tourists from across India and many parts of the world. Pride Hotel Rishikesh with its luxurious accommodations and world-class amenities, will present a one-of-a-kind experience for travellers to the region.

“With Pride Hotel Rishikesh launch, we are pleased to expand our portfolio further in North India. This is our third property in Uttarakhand and we are buoyant with tourism development that has fuelled the demand for upscale mid-market hotels in the region. Pride Hotels resonates with true Indian Hospitality and has attained high acclaim in providing memorable travel experiences to all its guests” said Shoeb Mohammad, Associate Vice President, North India, Pride Hotels Group.

Pride Hotel Rishikesh with well-appointed deluxe, superior, premium and suite rooms is replete with all modern elements and contemporary interiors. It offers scenic valley views. Dining options includes a Sky Deck, rooftop elevated dining experience, 360 Degree, multi cuisine restaurant and Mr. Confectioner, just the warm cosy round-the-clock coffee shop needed in the vicinity. Guests can enjoy a magnificent culinary journey that spans diverse gastronomic experiences. Rooms are equipped with LED TV, mini bar, tea/ coffee maker, Wi-Fi, heater, individual air conditioning, and comfortable beddings.

Pride Hotels Group has a presence in around 51 great locations with 5,075 rooms, 102 restaurants, 134 banquets, lawns, and conference halls. Currently, Pride Hotels Ltd 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 business hotels, “Pride Resorts” at mesmerizing destinations, Mid-Market segment hotels for every business “Pride Biznotels” and a fresh concept of Premium luxury serviced apartment stays “Pride Suites”. Current locations are New Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Pune, Nagpur, Bangalore, Chennai, Goa, Jaipur, Indore, Udaipur, Bharatpur, Mussoorie, Puri, Gangtok, Anand, Alkapuri, Manjusar (Vadodara), Sasan Gir, Somnath, Bhopal, Haldwani and Rishikesh. Upcoming locations are Daman, Bhavnagar, Surendranagar, Agra, Dwaraka, Jabalpur, Bhopal, Bharuch, Nainital, Ramnagar, Jim Corbett, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Lucknow, Varanasi, Rajkot, Kanpur, Neemrana, Mysore, Gurugram, Aurangabad, Halol, Yawatmal, Rudraprayag, Bengaluru, Ranakpur, and Greater Noida, Digha among others.

Sabre announces agreement with Capillary Technologies to help airlines and hoteliers delight travelers through next-generation customer loyalty programs

Airlines and hoteliers across the globe are now able to utilize the power of Sabre and Capillary’s advanced solutions together by integrating Capillary’s sophisticated loyalty tools with their existing Sabre technology

Bangalore, India – March 2023 –  Sabre Corporation (NASDAQ: SABR), a leading software and technology provider that powers the global travel industry, today announced an agreement with Capillary Technologies, a best-in-class loyalty management and customer data platform provider that delivers AI-based, cloud-native SaaS programs and solutions. Through the agreement, Sabre has incorporated the Capillary Loyalty Management solution into the Sabre platforms for airlines and hoteliers, adding Capillary’s advanced loyalty management capabilities to their comprehensive offerings. 

The Sabre and Capillary agreement will provide: 

• Valuable insights into customer loyalty data through real-time analytics;

• New opportunities for end-to-end loyalty management and incremental revenue opportunities for airlines and hoteliers; and 

• Enhanced customer experiences across the entire traveler journey.

For Sabre Hospitality customers, the Capillary hospitality platform will be integrated with Sabre Hospitality SynXis applications, including Central Reservations, Property Hub, Voice Agent, and Booking Engine. For airlines, Capillary’s loyalty management solution can be integrated with SabreSonic, Customer Insights, Payment, and Dynamic Rewards products.  

The Capillary Technologies solution goes beyond traditional points-focused loyalty programs to enable brands across travel, and other sectors, to enhance consumer engagement through digital transformation. Using AI to interpret comprehensive data sets, Capillary Technologies provides meaningful, real-time insights into customer preferences, providing recommendations to empower airlines and hoteliers to step up their relationships with travelers, while enhancing revenue-creation opportunities, through truly personalized interactions across all traveler touchpoints. Capillary Technologies, has been named a Leader in “The Forrester Wave TM: Loyalty Technology Solutions, Q1 2023” report. Capillary’s Loyalty+ has earned 5/5 for 13 of the

28 criteria evaluated by Forrester.

“The nature of the travel and hospitality industry has shifted dramatically in the last couple of years. With the advancements in digital technology, it is crucial that loyalty management solutions spearhead this change in the travel industry. Headless technology for customer loyalty helps airlines and hotels increase customer retention through advanced analytics and AI-powered nudges. We're excited to partner with Sabre so that, together, we can bring Sabre customers, and the wider travel industry the customizable, integrated, cloud-based loyalty management solution they need for current times,” said Sameer Garde, CEO, of Capillary Technologies. 

With offices around the world, including a presence across the United States, India, the Middle East, and Asia, Capillary Technologies brings a global understanding and focus to loyalty management.

“I’m delighted that through this alliance we can provide our airline partners with a novel approach to loyalty management that can be seamlessly integrated with their existing technology so they can rapidly respond to market conditions,” said Corrie DeCamp, Senior Vice President, Product Management, Sabre. “Our joint loyalty management solution will enable airlines to stay connected with their flyers, understand their preferences, reward their loyalty, and improve customer engagement through AI-driven recommendations that create incremental value for our customers and their frequent travelers.”

“I’m thrilled that we are further enhancing our hospitality offering through Capillary,” said Frank Trampert, Senior Vice President, Global Managing Director of Community Sales for Sabre Hospitality. It’s vital that hoteliers can understand ever-evolving guest preferences and expectations to create differentiated experiences and keep their guests delighted at every travel touchpoint.” 

About Capillary Technologies

Founded in 2012, Capillary Technologies has a presence across the United States, India, the Middle East, and Asia, in particular, South East Asia. Capillary offers end-to-end loyalty programs, a comprehensive view of consumers, and unified, cross-channel strategies that deliver a real-time omnichannel, personalized, and consistent experience for customers. Powering 100+ loyalty programs, across 30+ countries, Capillary works with 250+ brands including Tata, Asics, PUMA, Adani, Fossil, Shell, Hoya, Pantaloons, GKB Opticals, Indian Terrain, Fossil, Vishal Megamart, and many more from verticals such as apparel, footwear, supermarkets, conglomerates, manufacturing and electronics, pharmacy and wellness, fine dining and QSR, luxury and jewelry, entertainment, travel, and hospitality. With a massive reach of 875 million+ consumers and processing 1.95 billion+ annual transactions, the company has the backing of Warburg Pincus, Sequoia Capital, Avataar Ventures, and Filter Capital. For more information, visit www.capillarytech.com.

About Sabre Corporation

Sabre Corporation is a leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, serving a wide range of travel companies including airlines, hoteliers, travel agencies and other suppliers. The company provides retailing, distribution and fulfilment solutions that help its customers operate more efficiently, drive revenue and offer personalized traveller experiences. Through its leading travel marketplace, Sabre connects travel suppliers with buyers from around the globe. Sabre’s technology platform manages more than $260B worth of global travel spend annually. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world. For more information, visit www.sabre.com.  

Radisson Hotel Group signs two new hotels in Pakistan

Radisson Hotel Group, one of the world's leading hotel groups, announces the signing of two new hotels in Islamabad, Pakistan. This underlines the Group’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the South Asian market. The two new hotels, Radisson Blu Hotel & Residences, Islamabad, and Radisson Hotel Islamabad Multi Gardens are set to open in the next three years. 

Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is a beautiful and modern metropolis nestled in the foothills of the Margalla Hills. Despite being a bustling city, Islamabad has managed to retain its serenity and peaceful ambiance, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a blend of modernity and tradition. Whether it's the stunning Faisal Mosque, the lush green parks, or the bustling markets, Islamabad has something to offer for everyone.

Radisson Blu Hotel & Residences, Islamabad, will be part of a mixed-use development near Islamabad International Airport, on the main Srinagar Highway in Mumtaz City, an exclusive suburban housing society. It will consist of a hotel with 432 rooms, suites, and serviced apartments. The development will also feature a shopping mall with retail and entertainment options, corporate business floors, lounges for airline crew and executives, and a banqueting area. The hotel will offer Radisson Blu’s signature service and offer stylish spaces. Through personalized service and local nuances, each stay at a Radisson Blu hotel becomes a truly meaningful and memorable experience. Radisson Blu hotels can be found in major cities, key airport gateways, and leisure destinations. 

Radisson Hotel Islamabad Multi Gardens will be part of the fascinating J7 Emporium mixed-use complex. The hotel will include 165 rooms, including four executive suites which will feature Radisson’s signature natural surroundings and Scandinavian-inspired hospitality that allow guests to find harmony in their travel experience. The hotel will also offer an incredible rooftop restaurant with amazing views of the Margalla Hills, the city, as well as a contemporary housing development with a clubhouse, retail, and other amenities that will surround the hotel. The setting will be dynamic and exciting, with many options for dining, shopping, and entertainment. J7 Emporium is positioned in the heart of Islamabad and is a quick 20-minute drive from Islamabad International Airport, making the hotel an ideal location for a wide array of travelers. Islamabad is also home to many embassies and consular offices.

"We are thrilled to execute our development strategy in Pakistan by bringing two of our brands to Islamabad and providing guests with world-class hospitality experiences in this dynamic city. Pakistan is a rapidly growing market with tremendous potential, and we are confident that our globally recognized brands and service standards will resonate with business and leisure travelers alike in the country. Many thanks to J7 Group for their trust, professionalism, and strategic vision for the country”," said Elie Milky, Vice President Development, Pakistan, the Middle East, Greece, and Cyprus, Radisson Hotel Group.

“We are very excited to establish a long-term mutually beneficial relationship with the Radisson Hotel Group. It is our vision to bring top-class hospitality to Pakistan to cater to the demands of the growing travel and tourism industry in the country, We feel that there is great potential in the hospitality segment in Pakistan, and the demand for international standard hospitality services remains untapped, The J7 Group remains laser focused on delivering this need through this strategic partnership,” said Yaseen Mehsud, CEO, J7 Group.

“Radisson Hotel Group and J7 Group have tied the knot starting with two developments, namely J7 Global and J7 Emporium, but looking at the professionalism of the Radisson team and their wonderful growing portfolio of properties globally, in future we plan to roll out many more in other urban cities of Pakistan” said Salah Udin, Project Director, J7 Global.

BCIHMCT New Delhi Organizes 13th India International Hotel, Travel & Tourism Research Conference on "Green Investment, Inclusive Growth & Digital Futures"

BCIHMCT New Delhi is proud to host the 13th India International Hotel, Travel & Tourism Research Conference on the theme "Green Investment, Inclusive Growth & Digital Futures" from April 04 to April 06, 2023. The event will be a platform for esteemed National and International speakers to discuss and deliberate on various topics related to the hospitality and tourism industry.

The conference will be graced by the presence of distinguished personalities such as Shri Vinod Zutshi Ji, IAS (Retd.), Former Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India, Dr. Enrico Panai, President- EATSA (Euro Asia Tourism Studies Association), Mr Gaurav Shah, General Manager (Southeast Asia), BotShot-Hotel Automation Solution, Dr Lucilia Cardoso, Researcher of CITUR – Centre for Tourism Research, Development and Innovation, Portugal and President, Portuguese Graduates Association, Switzerland, Dr Naira Mkrtchyan, Head of Education Department, Armenia-Russian International University, Armenia and Prof. Paramita Suklabaidya, Director, School of Tourism and Hospitality Services Management, IGNOU.

The conference will feature discussions on various topics such as Film Tourism, Destination Promotion & Economic Development, Facilities, Quality and Innovations in Travel, Tourism & Hospitality, Managing Human Resources in Hospitality and Tourism, and Role of Big Data, Smart Applications and social media as Digital Future.

The topic of Film Tourism, Destination Promotion & Economic Development will focus on the role of the film industry in promoting tourism and how it can contribute to the economic development of a region. The Facilities, Quality and Innovations in Travel, Tourism & Hospitality will discuss how innovative technologies and practices can improve the quality of services provided in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Managing Human Resources in Hospitality and Tourism will shed light on the challenges faced in managing human resources in the industry and strategies to overcome them. Finally, the Role of Big Data, Smart Applications and social media as Digital Future will explore the potential of digital technologies in transforming the hospitality and tourism industry.

BCIHMCT New Delhi invites all stakeholders of the hospitality and tourism industry to attend the 13th India International Hotel, Travel & Tourism Research Conference and be a part of the discussions and deliberations on the latest trends and practices in the hospitality industry.

Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel partner with LTIMindtree to launch ‘Green Carpet’ - a global platform for Enterprises to monitor & manage business travel emissions

The platform also leverages the global expertise of Fairfax Digital Services

        -In line with SEBI Business Responsibility & Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) mandate 

Mumbai, March 2023: Global warming and its resultant impact on the environment and mankind have forced countries globally to take concrete measures to curb the damage and preserve for the future – and India is at the forefront of this movement.

SEBI has mandated the top 1,000 listed companies in India by market capitalization to make filings as per the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) from FY23. Coming against this backdrop, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading omnichannel travel services company and its Group Company SOTC Travel, announced their partnership with global technology consulting and digital solutions company LTIMindtree, to launch “Green Carpet” – a global platform to monitor and manage business travel emissions.

Green Carpet is built on the combined prowess of Thomas Cook & SOTC’s deep expertise in the travel industry, LTIMindtree’s ESG consulting and digital solutions capabilities and also leverages the global expertise of Fairfax Digital Services (a Fairfax company).

A SaaS-based platform, “Green Carpet” is designed to address specific concerns faced by organizations, helping them capture, monitor, analyze and reduce their carbon emissions from business travel. It offers real-time insights related to Scope 3 emissions and helps organizations to significantly reduce their ESG reporting costs.

“Green Carpet” enables:

1. Simplified data capture & analysis of travel emissions with real time dashboards

2. Adherence to BRSR and aligned to global audit requirements

3. Swift and easy integration with current business travel platforms of corporates

4. Advanced AI & ML to provide analytics & recommendations

5. Decision making to drive enterprise net zero goals

Mr. Madhavan Menon, Chairman & Managing Director, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “Under its G20 Presidency, India has set ambitious ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) goals, & India Inc. has been called on to implement SEBI’s BRSR mandate starting FY23. The need for a trustworthy partner to provide accuracy and speed in reporting is hence an imperative. At Thomas Cook & SOTC, our leadership in the travel sector formed the basis of our partnership with LTIMindtree – a leading technology solutions provider. “Green Carpet” therefore, not only embodies this potent partnership of leaders, but also leverages the global expertise of Fairfax Digital Services to collectively empower enterprises with the ability to seamlessly monitor and manage business travel emissions and drive their net zero goals.”

Mr. Sudhir Chaturvedi, President and Executive Board Member, LTIMindtree said, “ESG has become a board-level priority for nearly all organizations, especially in cognizance of India’s ambitious goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2070. To achieve this goal, organizations are investing in initiatives and infrastructure that will enable them to track, reduce and report carbon footprint seamlessly. The Green Carpet, powered by LTIMindtree’s ESG digital platform and advanced analytics techniques and Thomas Cook & SOTC’s travel expertise, will help climate-conscious clients to comply with regulatory expectations. It will accelerate their net-zero journey through data-driven engineering solutions, cloud computing data analytics, and enable business decisions towards sustainable future.” 

Mr. Sanjay Tugnait, CEO of Fairfax Digital Services said: “Green Carpet is a scalable and powerful tool that will enable the enterprise customers accelerate their journey to Net Zero. This is an exemplary partnership between Thomas Cook, SOTC & LTIMindtree powered by the Global Knowhow of Fairfax Digital to create ESG solutions. To capture, measure, benchmark and report is not only a requirement by SEBI for scope 3 emissions but also a social obligation for us to do our bit and save the planet. In this the year of India’s G20 Presidency, as a member of the G20 Startup 20 Task Force on Sustainability, under the leadership of Dr Chintan Vaishnav, I am delighted we have built this digital solution that India can showcase amongst the G20 nations.”

Bengaluru’s newest - The Kind Roastery and Brew Room is all set to launch, Infusing Kindness into Every Aspect of the Cafe Experience

~  In the heart of Bengaluru ~

Bengaluru, March 2023: The Kind Roastery and Brewroom is pleased to announce its grand opening in Marenahalli, Bengaluru. Spread over two floors, this coffee-inspired space is open daily from 8 am to 11 pm and offers exceptional food and the best of coffee, all under one roof.

The Kind Roastery and Brewroom encapsulate an elevated, homegrown, fuss-free energy that provides exceptional food, the best coffee, and extraordinary experiences in a relaxed and present atmosphere. The brand persona is built on four pillars: The Kind Brews, The Kind People, The Kind Planet, and The Kind Food, which represents the café's commitment to sustainability, authenticity, and providing the best experience for their clients.

Founded by Pallavii Gupta and Arjun Shhetty, who have been in the hospitality industry for over a decade. With a passion for creating unique and memorable experiences, The Kind Roastery and Brewroom is their fourth venture in the hospitality industry. They wanted to build a brand that embodies their energy, a place where people can come and feel welcomed and inspired. Through their commitment to sustainability, authenticity, and exceptional service, they hope to create a kinder world, one cup of coffee and a plate of food at a time.

The commitment to quality and taste is unparalleled at The Kind Roastery and Brewroom. The teas, coffees, and food offerings are meticulously handcrafted and custom blended for each recipe to achieve a delicious and recognizable flavor note that is distinct to the café. The coffee experience is truly unique, aromatic, and flavorful, categorizing the cafe as a specialty coffee and handcrafted Roastery with an elaborate food menu, much like an elevated cafe experience.

The café's mission is to infuse kindness into every aspect of the experience. By making vegetarian and vegan food more approachable and accessible, The Kind Roastery and Brewroom believe that it is taking the first step towards a kinder planet. The Zen Table, designed to stimulate kindness and creativity, offers a space where people can pause, reflect, and find peace amidst the chaos of everyday life. The elevated vegetarian and vegan café menu at The Kind Roastery and Brewroom includes offerings like Giant Ravioli, Sourdough Tartines, Dry Khao Suey Salad, Mushroom Curried Dimsums, and elaborate dishes of such kind that are not often seen at a coffee shop.

The teas and coffees are sourced from estates within the country, with a unique blend crafted specifically for the café's menu. From Coconut Coffee to Cinnamon and Jaggery Coffee, Jackfruit Latte, and loose-leaf fennel teas, the café has worked tirelessly to create flavors and recipes never seen before.

More than just a café, The Kind Roastery and Brewroom is a space where people can come together and experience kindness through food, drink, and ambiance. The overall coffee and food experience is truly unique, aromatic, and flavorful, making it a must-visit destination for coffee and food lovers. Visit The Kind Roastery and Brewroom at JP Nagar, Marenahalli, and experience the best of vegetarian food and coffee.

Other Information:

Address:1316/F, 18 B Main Rd, JP Nagar, Marenahalli, 2nd Phase, J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560078

Time: 8 am to 11pm

Cost for two:INR 800/-

Concept Hospitality opens The Beacon Hotel in Visakhapatnam

Concept Hospitality Pvt. Ltd, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, has opened The Beacon Hotel, Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. This is the 21st hotel the company has opened under its Beacon brand. The company currently operates & manages over 90 hotels in 75 locations in India, Nepal and Seychelles.

Commenting on the opening of the hotel, Mr Noshir A Marfatia, Senior Vice President - Sales & Marketing said, “With this new opening, we now operate 8 hotels in South India, in the cities of Belagavi, Bengaluru, Hubballi (Hubli), Kakinada, Shivamogga, Udupi, Vijayapura and Visakhapatnam, under our Fern and Beacon brands.”

Mr Mukesh Elisetty, Operations Manager, The Beacon Hotel, Visakhapatnam added, “With Concept Hospitality entering the port city of Visakhapatnam, travelers to the city now have a new choice of stay, with the Beacon brand’s smart & efficient operation. We look forward to welcoming our guests to the new Beacon hotel in Visakhapatnam.”

 The Beacon Hotel, Visakhapatnam is ideally located in the city, offering 37 well-equipped modern rooms, with 19 Deluxe rooms, 16 Executive rooms, and 2 Suites, to suit all guest requirements. The hotel also offers a multi cuisine restaurant and easy access to the main areas of the city.

 LOCATION: The hotel is 9.5 kms from Visakhapatnam Airport and 4 kms from the Railway Station.

ADDRESS: 45-52-2/1, Abid Nagar, Visakhapatnam 530 016, Andhra Pradesh, India.