Accor, First-quarter 2023 revenue of €1,139 million up 54% like-for-like

Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Accor, said:

“In first-quarter 2023, Accor once again stepped-up business growth across all regions and in its two divisions: Premium, Midscale and Economy; and Luxury & Lifestyle. These excellent performances were driven in particular by the strong rebound in Asia, good price levels, and increased occupancy rates. They reflect the attractiveness of our brands, the commitment of our teams, and an ever-greater desire for travel and adventure on the part of our guests.
Given this highly positive start of the year, we have revised our 2023 guidance upwards, with double-digit RevPAR growth versus 2022."

The first quarter of 2023 demonstrated once again the robustness of the business recovery, quarter after quarter. This further acceleration in RevPAR (up 19% compared with first-quarter 2019) notably reflects the rebound of hotels in Asia following the lifting of the strict zero-COVID policy in China in late 2022. All the other regions also contributed to maintaining business activity at a substantially higher level than before the crisis.

The underlying dynamics observed in previous quarters remained in place, with average prices still high and sequentially improving occupancy rate but slightly lower than in 2019.

In first-quarter 2023, Accor opened 36 hotels, for around 4,400 rooms, and has thus achieved net network growth of 2.9% in the last 12 months. At end-March 2023, the Group had a hotel portfolio of 800,321 rooms (5,444 hotels) and a pipeline of around 214,000 rooms (1,241 hotels).

Consolidated revenue
 
The Group reported first-quarter 2023 revenue of €1,139 million, up 54% like-for-like (LFL) versus Q1 2022. By activity, this growth breaks down into a 71% increase for Management & Franchise (M&F), a 60% increase for Services to Owners, and a 37% increase for Hotel Assets and Other.

By division (excluding Holding & Intercos), €681 million of revenue was generated by the Premium, Midscale and Economy division, up 62% LFL compared with first-quarter 2022, and €477 million by Luxury & Lifestyle, up 52% LFL.

Environment Week Celebrations at Meluha, The Fern, Mumbai

Meluha, The Fern celebrated the World Environment Week by organizing various activities involving women, children, guests and staff members to create awareness about the importance of environment preservation and sustainability, highlighting the ill effects of pollution and ways and means to control it.

 The highlight of the celebrations was a rally involving small children between 6 to 12 age group who carried placards and shouted slogans to highlight the hazards of plastic pollution. The rally involving more than 50 kids and green team members of the hotel started from Powai plaza and culminated at the hotel.

 Similarly, another program was organized in a park in a nearby locality where the women were given a presentation on how to save energy by adopting some basic energy-friendly practices and inculcate the same in their children so that they can also become responsible citizens once they grow up.

 The guests were also encouraged to participate in a small eco-quiz. They were requested to scan the QR code and answer a few questions and all those who got the answers correct were offered discounts and other gifts.

The staff created a paper tree which had messages written  by them highlighting the hazards of plastic pollution. The messages were artistically displayed on leaves, flowers and branches. 

A session was also organized for the newly-inducted staff members to teach them the environment ethos which the company follows and educate them about the importance of environment preservation.

The VP, Operations, Punish B Sharma said, “It is a matter of great personal satisfaction for me that Meluha, The Fern has successfully organized a week-long celebration. We have tried to involve all the stakeholders to create awareness about the environment. We hope that our efforts will pay rich dividends and the people will imbibe the eco ethos in their day to day lives. 

Marriott International introduces an all-women managed hotel in Hyderabad

India, June 2023 – Westin Hotels & Resorts – part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 31 extraordinary hotel brands – unveils The Westin Hyderabad Hitec city, its second Westin property to launch in Hyderabad, with the distinctive identity of being an all-women-managed hotel, the first of its kind within the city. Located in Hitec City, a prominent technology township and within 32 km distance from the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, the 168 key hotel offers a holistic array of wellness experiences designed to empower guests to be the best version of themselves, regardless of the nature of travel. Playing its part in building a more sustainable future, this hotel will operate solely on green energy sourced from renewable resources.

Steeped in history, teeming with people, and buzzing with commerce, the city of Hyderabad is one of India’s most evocative ancient quarters. The city is a beautiful confluence of its rich past and dynamic present. Captured in the Old City are some of Islamic India’s most impressive architecture, like the 16th-century Golconda Fort, the Charminar, Hyderabad’s principal landmark and city symbol built in 1591, and the 18th-century Chowmahalla Palace to name a few such treasures. While addresses like Hitec City are replete with luxury malls, multiplexes, clubs, pubs, and sleek restaurants.

"We are thrilled to expand the brand’s footprint in Hyderabad with the opening of The Westin Hyderabad Hitec City,” said Ranju Alex, Area Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International Inc. “This landmark opening marks the first all-women operated hotel within the city and heralds a paradigm shift for the hospitality industry, breaking from the conventional ways of operating. Paired with the Westin brand’s signature programs, adapted to the needs of the modern traveler, the hotel is set to deliver experiences designed to empower a better you”.

Commenting on this landmark opening Mr. Sanjay Sethi, CEO and Managing Director, Chalet Hotels Limited, said, "We at Chalet Hotels are delighted to announce the opening of our second hotel in Hyderabad with the opening of ‘The Westin Hyderabad Hitec City’. This hotel is unique in more than one way. Not only is it going to be sold out from day one, but an equally path-breaking event is also that it will be launched by an all-women team. This groundbreaking initiative is a beacon of empowerment, reflecting our vision for a more inclusive and forward-thinking hospitality industry."

The hotel features 168 spacious guest rooms and suites, all equipped with the brand’s iconic Heavenly® Bed, which is uniquely designed to revitalize the body and mind for a night of restorative sleep. The sleek bathroom featuring the Heavenly® Bath redefines the shower experience with a revitalizing rain shower and features White Tea bath amenities, to help guests start the day feeling pampered and invigorated.

The hotel offers four holistic dining options. The Market is an all-day dining restaurant that offers a sustainably sourced menu for those seeking healthier food choices, and a buffet of local and international favorites for the discerning traveller. The Lobby Lounge, with its unmatched city views, is the ideal spot to unwind over cocktails and seasoned malts.  The Grab & Go caters to those on the move, with a host of fresh juices, salads and sandwiches made to order. The rooftop poolside Bar & Grill features comfortable open-air seating and a delectable menu comprising of freshly grilled meats and barbeques, paired with refreshing cocktails and chilled beers

The Westin Hyderabad Hitech City boasts 3300 square feet of banquet space, paired with smart technology features and hi-speed internet connectivity, giving it the flexibility to convert into modern function rooms ideal for hosting conferences and corporate meetings, along with private socials and weddings.

As part of the brand’s signature Move Well pillar, the local RunWESTIN® program provides guests with jogging maps that offer a choice of either a three or five-mile city route around the vicinity. The luxurious Heavenly Spa by Westin™ is designed to deliver a holistic wellness experience with trained therapists and naturally sourced products infused in relaxing massages, body scrubs, and body wraps.  Guest maintaining their fitness regimes while on the move can avail of the WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio which is complete with state-of-the-art fitness equipment including a bespoke Hypervolt recovery station by Hyperice. The hotel also houses a generous rooftop pool with panoramic city views.

“Introducing the first, all-women-managed hotel, The Westin Hyderabad Hitec City will set a new standard of hospitality, transforming the way travelers experience wellbeing in the city of Hyderabad,” said Amitabh Rai- Cluster General Manager- The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace and Hyderabad Market, Marriott International. “We welcome guests to discover the beauty and charm of the city of the Nizam’s, while our signature well-being Westin brand will offer fresh and unique experiences to both local and international guests “.

Minor Hotels Announces Second Anantara Resort in Brazil | Anantara Preá Ceará Resort in Northeast Brazil Slated to Launch in 2026

Minor Hotels, a hotel owner, operator and investor, currently with a portfolio of 530 hotels and resorts in 56 countries across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Indian Ocean, announces its second Anantara property in Brazil. Slated to launch in 2026, the new-build Anantara Preá Ceará Resort will be located in the state of Ceará on the country’s northeast coast.

Soon to start development on Preá Beach in the municipality of Cruz and close to the well-known tourist destination of Jericoacoara, Anantara Preá Ceará Resort will offer 60 guest rooms and villas, 25 branded residential bungalows, some with private pools, and a 120 sqm Presidential Suite. To be built within the high-end Vila Carnaúba real estate development, Anantara Preá will offer guests access to all Vila Carnaúba’s amenities, such as the restaurants and bars, sports facilities and a gym, a kids club, a kitesurfing school and a variety of nature walks. The resort will also be home to a regional restaurant and an Anantara Spa which will offer an extensive range of spa treatments and wellness programmes.

The state of Ceará is well known for its fine sand dunes and beaches, natural lagoons and mangroves thriving with nature, with around a third of the state’s territory forming part of the Jericoacoara National Park, one of the most beautiful spots in Brazil’s northeast. The coastline is also well established as one of the country’s most sought-after destinations for watersports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and wing foil surfing.

The new resort is being developed in partnership with Grupo Carnaúba. The partnership aims to strengthen the real estate market in the region with the introduction of the Anantara brand providing a luxury experience for discerning travellers. The project will also be focused on sustainability, ensuring the values of the local natural beauty are incorporated in harmony with the guest experience.

The ecoresort will extend over an area in excess of 52,000 square metres. The project’s design and decor are being created by Miguel Pinto Guimarães, a Brazilian architect well known for his contemporary creations which unite comfort in total harmony with the natural environment and the beauty of the surroundings. The landscaping will be developed by Embyá Paisagens & Ecossistemas. The hotel’s construction will focus on natural and regional materials. 

The sustainable and social initiatives of Vila Carnaúba, which is in the final stages of development, are an essential element of this partnership. These will include waste disposal and recycling, reforestation initiatives, replanting of Carnauba Wax Palm Trees, a fan palm indigenous to northeastern Brazil, along with supporting local food producers. At night there will be reduced lighting to preserve the sky’s panorama and to minimise the impact on the local fauna. 

Anantara Preá Ceará Resort will be accessible via the regional airport of Jericoacoara just 15 minutes’ away, or transfers can be arranged by car or small plane to Preá from the state’s main airport in Ceará which is 300 km from the resort. 

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International, commented, "In 2022 we announced our luxury Anantara brand's first hotel in Brazil, with Anantara Mamucabo Bahia Resort scheduled to open in 2025. We are excited to follow this with the announcement of a second Anantara in the country, demonstrating our commitment to expanding our footprint in Brazil with quality projects focused on preserving nature and the surrounding landscapes. We look forward to working closely with Grupo Carnaúba to bring this new Anantara resort to fruition.”

For further information please visit https://www.anantara.com/en/prea-ceara.

Ingredient Ideology | HEARTY BOWL OF SALADS TO RELISH BY: DR. KAVIRAJ KHIALANI- CELEBRITY MASTER CHEF

Indulge in the crunch & freshness of good health!

Summer Season is here and there is a need to be slightly aware of what needs to be included in our diets and the importance of nutrients and dietary fiber along with the essential vitamins and immunity-boosting properties are to be looked at in order to have balance on the taste buds, palates & the personality of the ingredients need to inculcate a feeling of welcome onto our plates

Here are a few simple, easy to make & Nutritious Salad Recipes:

Recipe-1] TIC TAC TOE SALAD

Ingredients:

For the base of the salad:

Assorted lettuce leaves- 1 cup- iceberg, romaine, cos lettuce.

For the body of the salad:

Boiled sweet corn- 1 cup

Sliced green cucumber- ½ cup

Sliced red onions- ¼ cup

Red radish- 2-3 no slice
Green capsicum/ red capsicum- ¼ no cubed

Tomatoes-3-4 cherry variety sliced

For the dressing of the salad:

Olive oil- 2 tbsp.

Lime juice- 2 tbsp.

Mustard paste-1 tsp

Rock salt/sea salt- 1/4 tsp

Crushed black pepper- ½ tsp

Roasted crushed cumin-1 /2 tsp

Honey-1 tbsp.

Mint leaves-10-12 no

For the garnish of the salad:

Pomegranate seeds/ flax seeds/ sunflower seeds- 1 tbsp.

Microgreens/ mint/ coriander/parsley- 1 tbsp
Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the salad.

2. In a mixing bowl combine together the ingredients for the dressing.

3. Add in the body of the salad just before serving.

4. Arrange the lettuce leaves at the base of your serving bowl/ plate.

5. Place the tossed salad on top and garnish appropriately.

6. Serve immediately.

Recipe-2] BOWL OF FASCINATION

Ingredients:

For the base of the salad:

Assorted lettuce leaves- 1 cup- iceberg, romaine, Lollorosso lettuce

For the body of the salad:

Sweet potato- 400 gms, peeled and cubed.

Boiled chickpeas- ½ cup

Shallots/madras onions- ½ cup cut 1 x 2

To saute the sweet potato for 8-10 mins in the following:

Oil- 1 tbsp. + garlic- 1 tsp chop + ginger – 1 tsp chop + salt and pepper to taste + water- ½ cup + garam masala powder- ¼ tsp + chopped coriander- 1 tbsp.

For the dressing of the salad:

Lime juice- 2 tbsp.

Tahini paste- 2 tbsp.

Hung curd-1/2 cup.

Peanut butter- 2 tbsp. blended in 1/4 cup warm water.

Crushed black pepper- ½ tsp

Mint leaves- 2 tbsp.

Chat masala-1/2 tsp

For the garnish of the salad:

Roasted crushed peanuts/roasted almonds/ melon seeds- as desired.

Fresh herbs- basil/ oregano/ thyme- as available can be added.

Method

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the salad.

2. In a mixing bowl combine together the lime, peanut butter mixture, pepper, salt and mint leaves, mix well.

3. Add in the body of the salad- cook the sweet potato separately add it here along with the shallots and chickpeas toss well.

4. Arrange the base of the salad in a serving bowl, arrange the salad over it.

5. In another mixing bowl combine the hung curd + tahini + chat masala mix well and add that on top of the salad like a drizzle topping and garnish, serve.

Recipe-3] TRUE TO LIFE TOSS 

Ingredients:

For the base of the salad:

White and purple cabbage- 1 cup shredded

For the body of the salad:

Sprouted moong – 2 cups

Cucumber-1/2 cup cubed

Tomatoes-1/4 cup cubed

Green chilies- 1 tsp chop

Onions-2 tbsp. chop

Pomegranate seeds- ¼ cup

Grapes- black/green-1/2 cup

Chickoo-2 no peel and cubed.

For the dressing:

Olive oil- 2 tsp

Lime juice- 2 tbsp.

Honey-1 tsp

Jeera powder-1/2 tsp

Chat masala-1/2 tsp

Ginger juice- 1 tsp

Mango pickle masala- 1 tsp from your mango pickle jar.

Mint leaves-1 tbsp. + 1 tbsp. coriander/basil leaves

For the garnish of the salad:

Chia seeds/ sunflower seeds/ sesame seeds- 1 tsp

Method:

1. Prepare the ingredients for the salad.

2. In a mixing bowl combine together the ingredients for the dressing.

3. Just before serving add in the body of the salad and toss well.

4. Arrange the base on a serving plate/bowl top it up with the tossed salad.

5. Garnish appropriately as desired and serve chilled.

Recipe-4] LA VOILA SALATA

Ingredients:

For the base of the salad:

Assorted lettuce leaves- 1 cup – Lollorosso, chicory, cos lettuce

For the body of the salad:

Fusilli pasta- 2 cups or any pasta of your choice- boiled.
Tofu/ Paneer-1/2 cup cubes grilled/pan-fried.

Cherry tomatoes- 5-6 no cut 1x 2

Red/green/yellow peppers-1/2 cup cubed

Broccoli florets- 1 cup blanched.

For the dressing of the salad:

Olive oil- 2 tsp

Garlic- 1 tsp chop/burnt garlic flakes- 1 tsp.

Tomato ketchup- 2 tsp

Lime juice- 2 tsp

Chili flakes- ½ tsp

Mixed herbs-1/2 tsp

Salt and crushed black pepper to taste

Parsley- 1 tbsp.

Chat masala-1/2 tsp

For the garnish of the salad:

Black and green olives- 3-4 no sliced.

Fresh basil/rosemary- 2 tbsp.

Shavings of parmesan/ cheese- 2 tbsp.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the salad.

2. In a mixing bowl combine together the ingredients for the body and the dressing and toss well

3. Arrange the base of the salad on a salad plate or bowl, place the tossed salad on the base, garnish it well and serve it immediately along with a portion of crispy garlic bread.

Recipe-5] FRUITY PARADISE

Ingredients:

For the base of the salad:

• Banana leaf- 1 No cut it as per the size of the serving plate/platter.

• For the body of the salad: use your choice of fruits.

• Watermelon- 1 cup cubes

• Musk melon-1/2 cup cubes

• Green apple- ½ no cubed

• Chickoo- ½ cup cubed

• Papaya-1 cup cubed.

• For the dressing of the salad:

• Orange segments- ½ cup of fresh orange

• Ginger juice- 1 tbsp.

• Mint leaves- 10-12 no 

• Honey-1 tbsp.

• Chat masala-1/2 tsp

• Mustard paste- ½ tsp

• Lime juice- 2 tbsp.

• Sunflower seeds/ melon seeds- 2 tsp

• For the garnish of the salad:

• Pomegranate seeds- ½ cup/ olives/ grapes/ fresh herbs/ micro greens 

  Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the salad.

2. Use a choice of fruits as per seasonal availability.

3. Combine the dressing ingredients in a mixing bowl.

4. Add the fruits to the dressing bowl just before serving, toss well.

5. Arrange the banana leaf on a serving plate/platter top it with the tossed salad, garnish appropriately, and serve to use assorted nuts like walnuts/ apricots/pine nuts etc on this salad.

COSTA SERENA RESTARTS IN ASIA: COSTA IS THE FIRST COMPANY TO RESUME OUTBOUND CRUISES DEDICATED TO SOUTH KOREA AND TAIWAN

After two cruises out of Thailand, from June to October 2023 Costa Serena will sail on a total of thirty-five cruises from South Korea and Taiwan to Japan, featuring Italian style experiences.

Costa Cruises announces that Costa Serena returned to service in Asia.  After two cruises between Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, Costa Serena departed today from the port of Busan, in South Korea, heading to Nagasaki and Yatsushiro, in Japan.  It is the first outbound cruise to resume in South Korea after the end of cruise travel restrictions.

"With the departure of Costa Serena from Busan, we celebrate a historic event for cruises in Asia. We are, in fact, the first company to resume outbound cruises dedicated to South Korea, and soon also to Taiwan, after the pause due to travel restrictions caused by the pandemic. It’s a very important moment for the recovery of the cruise industry in Asia. We achieved this significant result thanks to our historic presence in Asia and established relationship with local partners and institutions" - said Mario Zanetti, President of Costa Cruises.

From June to October 2023, Costa Serena will be operating a program of “charter” cruises in Asia, in cooperation with local travel partners. The total number of cruises is thirty-five. Eight cruises, in June and October 2023, will be dedicated to the South Korean market; from July to October 2023 another twenty-seven cruises are planned for the Taiwan market.

IHCL Expands Its Presence In Uttarakhand, Signs A Seleqtions Hotel In Naukuchiatal

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, today announced the signing of a resort in Naukuchiatal, Uttarakhand. This is a conversion and will be rebranded an IHCL – SeleQtions hotel after extensive renovations and expansion.

L To R: Suma Venkatesh and Puneet Chhatwal (MD&CEO) of IHCL, Mukund Prasad and Vibhas Prasad of Leisure Hotels Group

Commenting on the signing, Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, IHCL said, “The signing of this hotel is in line with IHCL’s vision of expanding its presence in the leisure destinations. Naukuchiatal is a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand’s lake district. Nestled amidst the Kumaon Himalayas it provides easy access to other popular hill stations in the state. We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Leisure Hotels Group for our fifth hotel together.”

The 88-room resort, sprawled over 4 acres elegantly borders the famous Naukuchiatal Lake, offering panoramic views of the water and the scenic splendor of the Himalayan foothills. It will boast of a range of dining options, including an all-day diner, a bar, and a specialty restaurant on the decks overlooking the shimmering lake. The property also offers a swimming pool, spa, gymnasium, and spacious indoor and outdoor venues for social gatherings and corporate events. 

Vibhas Prasad, Director, Leisure Hotels Group said, “We are delighted to partner with IHCL for our fifth property. The company with its pioneering efforts has put many destinations on the global tourist map. This will bring Kumaon in Uttarakhand on the tourism circuit while fostering invaluable support to the local community. We believe it will transform the hospitality landscape in the region.”  

With the addition of this, IHCL has nine hotels across Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta and Ginger brands in Uttarakhand including four under development

IHG Hotels & Resorts Introduces Effortless Wi-Fi Connection for Guests Worldwide

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), a leading hotel company with a global presence, is thrilled to announce the launch of a new mobile product feature – IHG Wi-Fi Auto Connect. A first-of-its-kind innovation available at scale in hotels, this feature is now available exclusively in the IHG One Rewards mobile app for both iOS and Android users and will automatically connect IHG One Rewards members to Wi-Fi upon arrival at more than 5,000 IHG hotels worldwide – no separate passwords or logins needed!

IHG Wi-Fi Auto Connect is enabled by the newly redesigned IHG app and IHG’s proprietary internet solution, IHG One Rewards Wi-Fi. Globally, the company logs more than 5.3 million monthly Wi-Fi logins. With this new solution, guests who opt-in via their mobile devices will join the internet upon entering a hotel without having to worry about separate login codes or passwords, saving time and enjoying a better user experience. A one-time set-up is required via the app where the member user can enable auto connection via settings. The functionality empowers guests visiting a hotel for a meeting, overnight stay or dining at a restaurant in a hotel.

“We know that our guests expect seamless instant connectivity and convenience, especially when it comes to Wi-Fi. At IHG, we are constantly looking for ways to enhance the guest experience, and IHG Wi-Fi Auto Connect is just one example of how we’re doing that,” said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President, Global Guest Experience, IHG Hotels & Resorts. “The solution will deliver IHG One Rewards members with even better connectivity and a seamless experience across 5,000+ hotels around the world.”

Motivated to improve the guest experience for loyalty members, the company continues to innovate and prioritize technology, comfort, and convenience. In addition to the improved Wi-Fi experience, the app has new enhancements designed for speed and convenience, including a new lock screen widget feature on iOS. Widgets allow guests to see their points balance and upcoming stays from the lock screen of their device, and to quickly launch the app. The app has also recently launched booking features allowing guests to select room enhancements during booking, including rooms with specific views or more space.

Unique Ways to Appreciate the Mighty Oceans of the World

June 2023: This World Ocean Day, spend some time in the marine world and pledge to celebrate its uniqueness. Dive deep to discover the corals, swim with the dolphins, save endangered Hawksbill turtles and learn about conserving their home.   

Swim with butterflyfish in Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao Island is no less than a tropical haven, thanks to the profusion of spectacular beaches, dive sites, and a wealth of different activities to enjoy. Tanote Bay, located on the island’s east coast, is perfect for travellers who wish to witness the Kingdom’s marine life teeming with various species, such as butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, rabbitfish, and groupers.

The island encourages ethical and sustainable tourism by organising Spotlight Koh Tao, an annual event comprising workshops and exhibitions which inspire tourists to participate in activities such as coral reef rehabilitation, sea glass jewellery making, coco tie-dye making, and fish aggregation with locals, among other initiatives that contribute towards marine conservation. 

Witness the largest aggregation of whale sharks in Qatar

As a peninsula surrounded by the Arabian Sea and blessed with year-round sunny weather, Qatar is famous for crystal-clear beaches, waterparks, and marinas that invite everyone to try out activities and experiences. 

The country also serves as the perfect habitat for many aquatic species that thrive in warmer temperatures, such as the Hawksbill Turtles that feed on marine delicacies at Al Ghariyah Beach. In addition, Qatar is home to the largest aggregation of whale sharks that prefer the warm and shallow sea waters of the country’s northeast coast, located about 145 km from Doha and reached by yacht. Qatar also accommodates the world’s second-largest population of Dugongs at the Al Thakira mangrove forest. One can witness these underwater creatures in full glory from April to September by kayaking.

Discover vibrant corals in the deepest atolls of Maldives 

From heavenly beaches and lush palm trees to turquoise waters and diverse marine life, the Islands of Maldives embody everything perfect for a leisurely escapade. Designed in harmony with the natural environment, The Residence Maldives offers myriad activities catering to every traveller’s interest, including the world’s largest and deepest coral atolls. 

The waters of the resort’s Gaafu Alifu atoll are home to over 1,200 species of corals, fish, sharks, green turtles, manta rays, and eagle rays. You can witness them by snorkelling and deep-sea diving. The resort also largely contributes to marine conservation by being part of the Maldives Underwater Initiative promoted by the Maldivian Ministry of Tourism and the Protect Maldives Seagrass, an initiative launched by the Blue Marine Foundation.

Save the endangered turtles in Oman

Nestled between the majestic mountains and glittering waters of the Gulf, Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah, Muscat, reflects the beauty of this Middle Eastern country. The sea around the resort is replete with rich marine life, such as turtles, rays, eels, fish, coral reefs, and shipwrecks that make beautiful underwater sights. 

A fully equipped and professionally staffed Dive Centre arranges daily excursions and guided diving tours. A night-time expedition and three daily dives are available too. Marine experts guarantee that everyone makes the most of their aquatic adventure. Oman is home to five different species of turtles, and one of the nesting sites is Shangri-La Muscat’s private beach. The Turtle Care Project aims to protect the endangered hawksbill and green turtle species as a ranger looks after nests and protects them from potential threats. Between March and September, when hundreds of turtles return to the resort’s beach to lay eggs, guests are invited to witness hatchings, help to protect their nests and attend Turtle Talks at the hotel’s Eco Centre.

The Gulf of Oman is also home to hundreds of dolphins, sometimes seen together in pods of 250. Every morning, tours depart from the resort’s marina, even as marine experts talk about conservation efforts and ways to contribute to them.

Feel the adrenaline rush in Ko Pha-Ngan, Thailand

Akin to its sister islands, Koh Samui and Koh Tao, Ko Pha-Ngan is a paradise for thalassophiles and water sports enthusiasts. Travellers can indulge in water activities, such as snorkelling, scuba diving, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, parasailing, and kayaking.

COREsea, a marine research and conservation programme instituted on this island, has been educating people about Southeast Asia’s marine biodiversity. They conduct independent research and experiments and even provide research vessels, diving equipment, and accommodations for those who wish to observe and volunteer in their marine conservation mission. 

Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang Opens its Doors in Vietnam

Guests can expect Hilton Garden Inn’s signature Brighthearted service, elevated amenities and spacious guestrooms at Hilton’s first beachfront property in the coastal city

Da Nang, VIETNAM JUNE, 2023: Leading global hospitality company Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced the opening of Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang, the perfect getaway for leisure and business travelers alike. Conveniently situated just four kilometers from the city center and located along the renowned My Khe beach, all 234 rooms at Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang come with cerulean beach views, promising a warm and inviting stay for guests to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate.  

“Vietnam continues to be one of the most dynamic travel destinations in Asia. To cater to the needs of the growing midscale segment seeking comfort and value, we are delighted to open the doors of Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang and welcome guests to Hilton’s first beachfront property in the coastal city. This opening speaks to our strong growth momentum in South East Asia and contributes to our ambition to double our footprint within the region in the coming years,” said Alexandra Murray, area vice president and head of South East Asia, Hilton.

Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang is conveniently located just seven kilometres, or a 15-minute car drive, from Da Nang International Airport and five kilometres from Da Nang Railway Station. Travelers can also enjoy easy access to the UNESCO-recognized Hoi An Ancient Town, the historical Hue city, and the rich nature of the Son Tra Peninsula.

Bright and airy spaces and contemporary design touches characterise the 28-storey hotel. Each of the hotel’s guest rooms features warm oak tones and custom-designed furniture. With seven room types, ranging from 26-square-meter layouts that can accommodate up to three guests, to a 60-square-meter junior suite with two balconies, guests can expect spacious, purposeful and highly-functional retreats designed for working and relaxing. Each room comes equipped with premium Peter Thomas Roth amenities and complimentary WiFi access. 

Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang brings the brand’s innovative all-day dining concept, Together & Co., to South East Asia. Guests can enjoy an engaging social dining experience over thoughtfully curated local specialities and international favourites. For a delightful afternoon, guests can head to the T&Co. Lobby Lounge for sustainably and locally-sourced Vietnamese speciality coffee that pairs perfectly with freshly-baked pastries and light snacks.  

Come evening, guests can enjoy beautiful sunsets with refreshing cocktails or local craft beers at the hotel’s rooftop bar, T&Co. Rooftop. Located on level 27, the bar offers panoramic views of My Khe beach and Son Tra peninsula’s spectacular landscape. To ensure guests have everything they need during their stay, the hotel also features a 24/7, grab-and-go retail space offering an array of fresh foods, snacks and beverages. 

For those who wish to upkeep their fitness regime, Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang also offers guests the choice of working out at its fitness center and yoga terrace, as well as relaxing swims at the rooftop infinity pool, both of which offer breath-taking and unobstructed ocean views.

“Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang’s opening marks a significant milestone for the brand’s growth across Asia Pacific, underscoring its appeal and popularity with travelers across the world. As we expand, we remain committed to extending great value to our guests through the brand’s subtly elevated accommodation and thoughtful amenities, as well as its signature Brighthearted hospitality,” said Jenny Milos, vice president, Brand Management, Suites & Focused Service, Asia Pacific, Hilton.

Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang’s multi-functional event spaces are also ideal for hosting a range of corporate and social events, designed for fostering collaboration and encouraging guests to linger. The pillar-less ballroom, measuring 183 square meters, can accommodate up to 150 people and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the ocean and Son Tra peninsula. Meeting organizers looking for more flexible spaces also have the option of holding business meetings, trainings, or dinners at the hotel’s 35 square meter meeting space on level 2. The space can also be repurposed into a pre-function area for cocktail receptions and coffee breaks. 

“We are excited to welcome guests to Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang, where they can revel in the natural beauty that Da Nang has to offer. We seek to make every guest’s stay better and brighter and take their travel experience to the next level,” said Nick Boyd, General Manager, Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang.

Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang, which is owned by Hai An Investment Trading and Import Export Joint Stock Company, joins a portfolio of 12 trading and pipeline Hilton hotels in Vietnam. This year, Hilton is poised to also welcome Hilton Saigon an La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton, which marks the lifestyle brand’s entry into Vietnam. 

Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang is also part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton's 19 world-class brands. Members who book directly through the preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Hilton Honors Points and money to book a stay, free standard Wi-Fi and an exclusive member discount that can't be found anywhere else. Members also enjoy popular digital tools available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app where Hilton Honors members can choose their rooms and check-in digitally.

TravClan Expands Global Reach through Strategic Partnerships with Middle East Government Bodies and Tourism Boards

May 2023, New Delhi: TravClan, a global B2B Travel Tech Platform, has entered into strategic partnerships with the government bodies and tourism boards of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Oman, and Saudi Arabia to continue to reshape the way travel agents sell and deliver exceptional travel experiences worldwide.

Expected to attract over 2 lakh new consumers to the Middle East, these alliances stand to generate a potential 20% revenue growth in the next 3 years for 15,000+ travel agents who would get a chance to learn more about offerings of the region.

"Our partnerships are critical in achieving our mission to boost tourism in the Middle East," said Chirag Agrawal, Co-founder of TravClan. "They underline our commitment to showcase the region's incredible offerings and foster trust and confidence among travelers worldwide.” Through the partnerships, TravClan, aims to increase awareness amongst travel professionals regarding the vast choice of on-ground travel services and unique experiences these destinations have to offer.TravClan, in recent collaborations with tourism boards, has organized exclusive events, fostering networking opportunities and knowledge-sharing among over 1000 travel industry professionals. These initiatives align with TravClan’s broader vision to empower SMBs in the travel sector globally, enabling their business growth and success.

One such successful collaboration has been with the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), resulting in a series of joint marketing activities promoting Saudi Arabia. These campaigns, centered around the FIFA World Cup and the ongoing IPL, significantly boosted awareness among the travel agent community and travelers, resulting in a surge in traffic with over 3000 passengers choosing Saudi Arabia as their preferred destination.

"Saudi is a new, unique leisure destination that is untapped and unexplored," said Alhasan Aldabbagh, President – APAC Markets, Saudi Tourism Authority. “As the true home of Arabia, Saudi offers rich cultural and heritage sites, pristine nature, and diverse landscapes, ideal for the curious, adventurous Indian traveler. Our partnership with TravClan is critical to unlocking opportunities for growth and position Saudi as a must-visit destination."

Joint marketing campaigns with Dubai and Abu Dhabi also yielded remarkable results, with a surge in traffic of over 20,000 passengers in the last 4 months. This success can be attributed to TravClan's ability to leverage technology to offer superior travel services at affordable prices, coupled with the commitment shown by the Dubai and Abu Dhabi government to create unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

TravClan, recognized as a leading tech-enabled global destination management company, boasts a local on-ground presence in over 18 destinations worldwide, ensuring delightful experiences at every step of the journey. As the summer season unfolds, travelers can look forward to exciting adventures, cherished family moments, and awe-inspiring experiences in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.

About TravClan:

TravClan is a global B2B Travel Tech Platform that is reshaping the way travel agents sell and deliver exceptional travel experiences worldwide. With a strong focus on cutting-edge technology and seamless customer experiences, TravClan empowers 15,000+ travel agents to sell travel online while providing comprehensive end-to-end on-ground travel services with local on-ground presence in over 18 destinations worldwide.

SAYAJI HOTELS EXPANDS ITS PRESENCE IN MAHARASHTRA WITH THE LAUNCH OF ‘EFFOTEL SAROLA’

Sayaji Hotels, synonymous with luxury and excellence is now proud to unveil its newest addition in Pune, ‘Effotel Sarola’. Centrally located on the Pune-Bangalore highway, the hotel is well-connected to prominent commercial and industrial zones including the Sarola,Shiwal, Khandala &Faltan MIDC, and Pune IT Park. Mr. Ajit Dada Pawar, Former DCM & Opposition Leader of Maharashtra officially unveiled Effotel Sarola in the presence of prominent dignitaries.

Announcing the launch, Mr. Jameel Sayed, Director – of Business Development, Sayaji Hotels Ltd. said, “We are delighted to expand our presence in Maharashtra with the launch of Effotel Sarola, our sixth property in the State. The hotel perfectly epitomizes the brand’s core values of offering immaculate service and impeccable hospitality. We currently operate 22 properties nationally and have embarked on an ambitious expansion plan to establish our footprints in Gir, Panchgini, Udaipur, Lonavala, Khandala, Harda, and Satara in the coming years. The group overall plans to have 50 operational hotels nationally in the next 2 years. We are buoyant on the industry's growth in the Pune district that has fuelled demand for upscale mid-market hotels in this region. With the launch of Effotel Sarola, we move a step forward to establish our presence across prominent destinations nationally.”

Mr. Bhalchandra Jagtap, Founder, of Maee Hotels and Hospitalities Private Limited, said, “We are extremely overwhelmed by the owner-centric strategy adopted by Sayaji Hotels across all the properties they operate. This association enables us to benefit from Effotel’s premium brand image, smart technology, enhanced customer network, and professional expertise. Effotel Sarola with its strategic location, refined elegance, exquisite dining options, well-equipped conference facilities, and other contemporary amenities will perfectly complement the needs of discerning domestic and corporate travelers. We are thrilled to welcome our guests by offering them the signature Sayaji Hospitality experience and look forward to making their stay memorable”.

Effotel Sarola offers 54 well-appointed guest rooms comprising of 42 Premium Rooms, 10 Executive Rooms, and 2 Suites that blend contemporary design with unmatched comfort. All rooms are fully air-conditioned and equipped with tea-coffee makers, Wardrobes, Wi-Fi connectivity, LED TVs, and safety lockers. The facilities at the hotel include 24-hour room service, well-equipped with 2 conference rooms, a specialty restaurant, a board room, a banquet hall, Gym & a huge lawn – a perfect place for destination weddings. Guests can enjoy a magnificent culinary journey that spans diverse gastronomic experiences with a blend of multiple flavors and Indian hospitality. The banquet is an ideal venue to host private parties, weddings, and memorable events, while the board room is best suited for corporate meetings and training programs.

Sayaji Hotels is India’s premier upscale lifestyle hospitality brand, renowned for its bespoke experiences, signature hospitality, and ushering in new standards of opulence in the 4-star and 5-star hotels category. It has been at the forefront of the Hospitality Industry for the past 3 decades. The group presently operates 22 properties across India under the brand names Sayaji Hotels, Effotel by Sayaji, and Enrise by Sayaji. Each of the properties boasts luxurious rooms with a host of banqueting and F&B facilities.

Pride Hotels Group announces the launch of Pride Biznotel at Whitefield, Bengaluru

Pride Hotels Group is proud to announce the launch of Pride Biznotel at Whitefield’, Bengaluru. Located in the vibrant Whitefield area of Bengaluru, Pride Biznotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience for business travelers. With its strategic location near major business hubs, IT parks, and entertainment centers, the hotel caters to the needs of modern professionals.

Announcing the launch Satyen Jain, CEO of Pride Hotels said, “Expanding our Pride Biznotel brand to multiple locations is a testament to our commitment to meeting the discerning needs of business travelers. With the launch of Pride Biznotel Bengaluru at Whitefield, we are strategically catering to the thriving business community in the IT hub of the city. We look forward to creating memorable experiences for our guests at Pride Biznotel Bengaluru”.

“We are delighted to launch Pride Biznotel at Whitefield, Bengaluru. This will be our second property in the city, with our flagship Pride Hotel Bengaluru located at Richmond Road. Bengaluru has earned the reputation of being the "Silicon Valley of India" due to its thriving IT industry and being home to numerous multinational companies, technology parks, and research institutions. With its strategic location, impressive decor, delectable food options, exceptional banqueting facilities, and a host of hospitality services, we are confident that the hotel will resonate with guests seeking a memorable and comfortable stay” said Atul Upadhyay, Senior Vice President, Pride Hotels Group.

Pride Biznotel at Whitefield, Bengaluru will encompass 65 spacious rooms, a banquet hall, Imperial with capacity of approximately 200 people that includes a board room, Chowki, an Indian cuisine restaurant to cater 150 people, and live kitchen, and a spa, a fitness centre & Cafe Pride a rooftop restobar coming soon. Rooms are equipped with LED TV, mini bar, tea/ coffee maker, Wi-Fi, heater, individual air conditioning, and comfortable beds. 

Pride Hotels Group has a presence in around 56 great locations with 5,390 rooms, 109 restaurants, 152 banquets, lawns, and conference halls. The group 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 Resort” at mesmerizing destinations, Mid-Market segment hotels for every business “Pride Biznotel” and a fresh concept of Premium luxury serviced apartment stays “Pride Suites”. All brands are well appreciated and frequented by celebrities, corporate, and domestic & foreign tourists. 

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, Ranakpur, Rishikesh, Digha & Rudraprayag. Upcoming locations are Daman, Bhavnagar, Surendranagar, Agra, Dwaraka, Jabalpur, Bhopal, Bharuch, Haldwani, Nainital, Jim Corbett, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Lucknow, Varanasi, Rajkot, Kanpur, Neemrana, Mysore, Gurugram, Aurangabad, Halol, Yawatmal, Bengaluru, Greater Noida, Motera (Ahmedabad), Lonavala, Ambaji, Veraval, Amritsar among others. 

AISATS and YIAPL Sign Concession Agreement to build Multi-Modal Cargo Hub at Noida International Airport

Air India SATS Airport Services Private Limited (AISATS), a leading airport services company in India

Noida, May 2023: Air India SATS Airport Services Private Limited (AISATS), a leading airport services company in India, and Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL), a special purpose vehicle formed by Noida Airport concessionaire Zurich AG, have signed a concession agreement to build a state-of-the-art Multi-Modal Cargo Hub (MMCH) at Noida International Airport. Sanjay Gupta, CEO of AISATS, and Christoph Schnellmann, CEO of YIAPL, signed the agreement at a ceremony held on May 30, 2023, in Noida.

The MMCH, spanning 87 acres, will be a pioneering facility in India that comprises an Integrated Cargo Terminal (ICT) and an Integrated Warehousing & Logistics Zone (IWLZ). The strategic location of this first-of-its-kind cargo hub will seamlessly connect multiple modes of transportation with consolidated ancillary and value-added services, establishing a highly efficient route for cargo throughput across India and abroad. AISATS has been entrusted with the responsibility of designing, building, financing and operating the MMCH, further emphasizing its significance in transforming the logistics and cargo industry. Through this facility, AISATS aims to provide India’s logistics sector with a world-beating cargo processing and transportation grid that will help reduce logistics costs significantly, streamline processes for seamless coordination, and bring speed and transparency to the country’s supply chain.

Nipun Aggarwal, Chairman of AISATS, said, “Air India sees tremendous growth opportunities in Uttar Pradesh and is keen to provide seamless cargo connectivity within the state to power this growth. The AISATS MMCH at Noida will play an integral part in providing just-in-time cargo facilities for the North India region and will support in levelling up the Indian logistics and air cargo sectors with state-of-the-art infrastructure, value-added services and improved cost efficiency. We have no doubt it will have a knock-on effect and help increase India’s trade, provide employment opportunities and ease the movement of goods across the country.”

Sanjay Gupta, CEO of AISATS, said, “We are excited about our partnership with YIAPL and the tremendous potential of Noida International Airport as a world-class cargo hub. As a leading cargo solutions provider, AISATS is committed to establishing unparalleled multi-modal logistics infrastructure that will connect Uttar Pradesh's rapidly growing industrial clusters with the rest of the world. Our goal is to enhance the state's supply chain efficiency and make Noida a strategic cargo gateway to North India and beyond. Through our collaboration with YIAPL, we aim to deliver a seamless and best-in-class cargo experience for all stakeholders and position Noida International Airport as a key player in the global cargo industry."

Bob Chi, CEO of SATS Gateway Services, said, “India is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies with huge opportunities for growth in the air cargo logistics space. Establishing

an integrated logistics gateway in Noida through our AISATS joint venture with Tata Group's Air India will help develop the region into a strategic air cargo and export hub. Such a development also accelerates the expansion of our global air cargo hub handling capabilities as part of SATS’ twin-engine growth strategy.”

AISATS is a 50:50 JV between Air India Ltd (a Tata Group entity) and SATS Ltd (a leading provider of food and gateway services in Asia) and has been a foremost provider of hassle-free and comprehensive ground and cargo handling services to its airline customers in India. With the MMCH, AISATS aims to provide airlines and players within the trade and logistics sector with facilities such as separate domestic and international cargo terminal zones and dedicated courier terminals to handle express courier shipments. It will also provide a Coolport for handling temperature-sensitive cargo such as perishables and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, the MMCH will house a BUP facility for integrators and global forwarders, a consolidation centre for freight forwarders and agents, a customs-controlled warehouse, a logistics park for e-commerce players and 3PL warehouses, and a trucking centre with world-class parking amenities.  

All stakeholders will also benefit from AISATS’ technology-driven solutions at the MMCH, such as a cloud-based Cargo Management System (CMS) for end-to-end cargo tracking, reporting and network connectivity, a Single Window Cargo Community System to enable more efficient communications and a Smart Warehouse with technologies such as automated dimension scanners, conveyors, Radio Frequency Identifier (RFID) trackers, autonomous vehicles, video analytics-based monitoring etc. 

The Fern Hotels & Resorts opens The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel, Alwar-Sariska

The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India's leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is pleased to announce the opening of its newest property, The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel, Alwar-Sariska. Located in the heart of Alwar, Rajasthan, the hotel promises to offer guests a unique and sustainable hospitality experience. This is the company’s 11th operational hotel in Rajasthan, with the other hotels present in Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore), and Ajmer. 

"We are thrilled to open our newest property in Alwar, Rajasthan," said Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts. "At The Fern, we are committed to sustainability and environmental conservation and are delighted to bring this ethos to Alwar with our new hotel. Our guests can enjoy a unique and sustainable hospitality experience while contributing to the preservation of the environment."

Mr. Mohit Sharad, Associate Vice President-Sales & Marketing (North & East India) added, "We are confident that The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel, Alwar-Sariska, will be a popular choice for guests seeking to host luxurious destination weddings, corporate offsites, and other events in the area, and we promise them exceptional services and memorable experiences."  

Speaking on the Launch Mr. Dinesh Chand Sharma, Managing Director & Mr. Dikshant Sharma, Director, The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel, Alwar-Sariska added “We are thrilled to be associated with The Fern Hotels and Resorts. We are confident that our hotel will surely be appealing to the guests looking for a unique and relaxing stay. We are looking forward to this incredible journey.” 

The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel, Alwar-Sariska, is located in the charming and historic city of Alwar in Rajasthan. Offering 57 luxuriously appointed rooms featuring all modern amenities, the hotel caters to both business and leisure travelers. The hotel also offers a range of dining options, including a multi-cuisine restaurant and a bar, serving an array of delicacies and beverages. The hotel’s banquet hall and conference room can accommodate up to 1000 people and its lawns can accommodate up to 4000 guests, making it an ideal choice for weddings, conference meetings and events. Guests can indulge in various leisure activities, including a swimming pool, fitness center and spa. The hotel's prime location also allows guests to explore nearby attractions, including the Sariska Tiger Reserve, the Bala Quila Fort and the Alwar City Palace.

WITH A PORTFOLIO OF 42 HOTELS IN SAUDI ARABIA AND 56 MORE UNDERWAY, ACCOR EXPECTS TO DOUBLE ITS PRESENCE IN THE KINGDOM BY 2027

Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, is pleased to provide an update on its ambitious expansion plans throughout Saudi Arabia, in keeping with the company’s commitment to support Saudi Arabia Vision 2030. Pivotal to these plans, are three recently announced signings with key strategic owning partners for exciting new hospitality projects: The Rua Al Madinah project, in Madinah; a master-planned development project in Riyadh; and, a multi-city, master development agreement with Amsa Hospitality.

“The future of Saudi Arabia is extremely bright and Accor is accelerating expansion plans to meet the growing demand for modern, multi-faceted experiences – for guests, locals, homeowners, and our investment partners,” said Sébastien Bazin, Chairman & CEO, Accor. “As the largest hotel operator in the Kingdom, we are boldly redefining the way hospitality is delivered throughout Saudi Arabia – bringing together multiple brands, mixing hotels with residences, introducing new food and drink concepts, partnering with acclaimed restaurateurs, and taking hotel-level experiences to new heights. Most importantly, we are leading the industry toward positive hospitality – supporting communities and our environmental and social commitments, in full alignment with the goals of Vision 2030.”

With a 30-year history of operating in the Kingdom, Accor ccontinues to play a key role in the development of tourism throughout Saudi Arabia, through its many existing and upcoming projects in key locations. Accor currently operates 42 properties (16,334 keys) in Saudi Arabia, with a pipeline of 56 properties (10,000+ keys) in development. The new multi-faceted projects will mix hotels with residences and local attractions, while adhering to Accor’s ethical, social, and governing principles that will contribute to a healthier environment and deliver value to its stakeholders, including guests and surrounding communities.

The Rua Al Madinah project, in Madinah, includes a 142-key Fairmont hotel and 120 Fairmont branded residences, in addition to a 466-key Swissôtel and a 328-key Novotel, all set to open over the next several years. In partnership with Rua Al Madinah (RAM) Holding Company, the project will add over 1.5 million square meters of space to the Al Masjid Al Nabawi, known as the Prophet's Mosque. The new properties will be divided among 10 districts and superblocks, featuring the latest technology and smart infrastructure to ensure the operational sustainability of the project and strengthen the position of Madinah as a prestigious religious destination.

Meanwhile, in the city of Riyadh, a new master planned development project will create a luxury hospitality community encompassing a 230-key Raffles hotel, a 250-key Sofitel Serviced Residence, and a 60-villa MGallery resort, all set to open by 2027. In partnership with Erth Real Estate Company, Accor will develop the multi-faceted community, which will also include office towers, residential towers, and retail & commercial space, all built around a centrally located garden area.

Finally, a recently signed master development agreement with Amsa Hospitality will see the development and franchising of 18 Accor hotels in multiple cities across Saudi Arabia, such as Ha’il, Jubail, Taif, Al-Ula, Tabuk and Jazan, over the next ten years. Together, Accor and Amsa will develop a range of Accor’s economy and midscale brands, including ibis Styles, Mercure, Mercure Living, Novotel, Novotel Living and the recently launched Handwritten Collection, while also acting as the third-party operator by leasing and franchising the assets.

“Saudi Arabia presents a burgeoning hospitality sector which offers a host of opportunities to leverage Accor’s diverse ecosystem of hospitality brands, and we are confident the Group will double its presence in the Kingdom over the next five years,” said Jean-Jacques Morin, Group Deputy CEO and Premium, Midscale & Economy Division CEO. “While many of our luxury and lifestyle brands are already well-known throughout the Kingdom, we look forward to establishing a larger presence with our premium, midscale, and economy brands in the country’s fast-growing, second tier cities – particularly in up-and-coming neighborhoods where we can mix hotels, restaurants, workspaces, and entertainment experiences that are as compelling to locals as they are to travelers.”

Over the next year, Accor is expected to open the much-anticipated Raffles Jeddah, along with Fairmont Ramla Serviced Residences Riyadh, Sofitel Riyadh, and Movenpick Waad Al Shamal-Turaif.

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Marriott Bonvoy Collaborates with Dutch Electronic Duo Parallelle to Uncover The Power of Travel Through Sound

Singapore, May 2023 – Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of 31 extraordinary hotel brands and award-winning travel program, has collaborated with Amsterdam-based multi-instrumentalists and electronic music composers, Parallelle, to inspire travelers in embracing the power of travel through sound. The result is a distinctive five-part music video series inspired by the sounds of places, cultures, and local communities at some of the most sought-after destinations in the Asia Pacific, taking viewers on a melodic journey through picturesque Java, Fiji, Osaka, Bangkok, and Bengaluru.

Heavily inspired by diverse cultures worldwide, the five-part music videos are part of Parallelle’s ongoing film series, ‘A Day In’, where they travel across the globe capturing day-to-day sounds in local communities to unfold rich stories through music. Reputed for his ability to tell rich authentic visual stories, the music videos’ vivid colors, and cinematography are brought to life by the keen eyes and artistic expression of French Cinematographer Arnaud Moro.

“We believe experiencing a destination goes beyond just seeing the sights. It’s about connecting with the local community and immersing yourself in their way of life. Our collaboration with Parallelle does exactly that, allowing travelers to reimagine travel through sound and forge stronger emotional bonds to their favorite destinations. The collaboration not only elevates travel experiences but also showcases the unique beauty and culture of each community we visit. We can't wait to inspire travelers to tap into the power of travel through sound and gain a renewed perspective on what it truly means to explore the world,” shares John Toomey, Vice President,

Sales and Marketing, Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China), Marriott International.

TRAVEL WITH YOUR EARS

From the bustling traffic of Bangkok to the torrential thunderstorms of Java, tootle of traditional South Indian flute Nadaswaram, the acapella choirs of Fiji, and the laughter of shop vendors in Osaka, these characteristic sounds of Asia Pacific showcase the region’s melting pot of diverse cultures. No matter where members travel, they can uncover the signature rhythms that define each destination through videos and music compositions.

With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties across exciting destinations in Asia Pacific, the film series features a handful of exciting properties, including The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Jakarta and Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort & Spa in Indonesia; Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort and Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay in Fiji; W Osaka in Japan; W Bangkok in Thailand; and JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa and JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru in India.

"There is so much more to travel than meets the eye. Through sound, we can experience places and cultures like nothing you’ve ever known,” elaborated Parallelle, Thomas and Julien De Bie. “Our music transcends borders and infuses the richness of destinations, and traditional music and from time to time, spotlights local musicians.  We hope that our music can inspire people to

explore new destinations and cultures."

BRINGING THE POWER OF TRAVEL THROUGH SOUND TO LIFE

As part of the collaboration, Marriott Bonvoy and Parallelle also curated a one-of-a-kind music-focused Marriott Bonvoy Moments, where members had the opportunity to learn how to produce music inspired by the sounds of world culture, mix their own music track at the W Sound Suite at W Bali - Seminyak, before ending the night with VIP access at the iconic Dissolve Weekend festival headlined by the music duo, and including DJ sets by W Bali Seminyak's Damian Saint and Bali-based DJs, DBRA and PAPÜ.

Ingredient Ideology | MATTAR KI PESHGI: Versatile & Vibrant By: Celebrity Master Chef – Dr. Kaviraj Khialani

Calm, composed, versatile superfood great in its nutritive offering is how it has been defined by many foodies and gourmet lovers. Also called garden peas, they are small spherical seeds that come from pods. One of the most adored and used ingredients in many kitchens from our all-time favorite aloo mattar, pea pulao, Mattar aur pyaaz ki Kachories, parathas with green pea filling, mattar paneer korma, and more.

Green peas or mattar are one such ingredient which is a naturally sweet legume rich in a number of our daily dietary requirements. The composition of this small yet wonderful ingredient is the pod and the pea within. The pods are rich in fiber and some of the softer varieties are consumed as well like the snow peas etc.

They are low in calories and good for our system and ease digestion as well to an extent,100 gms of green peas have around 81 calories approx. and its varied preparations from soups, salads, dips, stir fries and curries make them all the more interesting to involve them in our diet plans.

Health benefits of Green Peas/ Mattar:

*Green peas are considered as heart-healthy food and their consumption in our diet in a number of healthy ways can add to the value of our system.

* Good for our skin, they contain fair amounts of fiber and anti-oxidants which protect us in many ways.

* Peas are also a good source of all the essential vitamins and minerals we need in our body like folate, iron, phosphorus and more.

* Green peas are considered one of the best sources of plant-based proteins for us and they increase the levels of certain proteins in our body which reduce the number of calories consumed in a day as well.

*They are relatively low in glycemic index which is a measure known to check how quickly our blood sugar rises after eating food.

Uses of Green Peas or Mattar in our Kitchen:

• One of my all-time favorites with green peas is a bhuna mattar aur makai ka shorba, peas and corn roasted and then tempered to a nice light soup, besides the Pudina mattar broth, cream of green peas soup, pea and lentil puree soup.

• Green peas are popular in Indian and both western cuisines as well from the fresh pea mash with fried fish, pea quenelles in sun-dried tomato sauce, pasta with pea pesto and basil, green pea soup with bacon and sunflower seeds, pea and potato croquettes, mashed potatoes with smoked peas, pea roesti and hash browns stuffed with minted pea mixture.

• Indian recipes like mattar filling inside the famous Kachories, cooked mashed spiced peas filling inside parathas, in doughs for puries, also try adding dehydrated pea flour/powder into your dough for making parathas etc it is tasty as well and the list gets even bigger looking at the way we add it to our subzis.

• Mattar paneer, mattar aloo, Gobi mattar ki subzi, makhana mattar korma, pea pulao, mattar ka kofta in mildly spiced Indian gravies. while most of us love the winter fresh green peas, cleaning them is fun and storing them in our freezer keeps a bit of stock in hand as well,but we do have frozen options as well with green peas.

• I also tried using green peas in a puree form converting it into gravies as well with the addition of a little spinach puree and cashew paste and coconut milk, turned out nice with chicken and cheese koftas & also with soy chunks and mushrooms.

• Green peas with rice also has a great connect from the basic ones to the layered ones, try peas with brown rice in a pulao form by flavoring with cinnamon and add a few chopped dates into it and give it a dum for few mins.

• From the stir fry concepts, to adding them to dips and spreads green peas are handy, helpful, tasty and easy to include in almost every dish we wish to add content color and value.

Here are a few Simple & Tasty Recipes using Green Peas or Mattar:

Recipe-1] HARE MATTAR KA DILKHUSH SHORBA

Ingredients

Green peas- 2 cups fresh/frozen.

Olive oil/ oil/ butter- 1 tbsp.

Bayleaf- 1 no

Garlic- 1 tsp chopped

Onion- 1 small chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Herbs- fresh or dried as per choice

Chili flakes- 1 tsp.

Potato-1 med sized peeled and cubed.

Roasted crushed jeera-1/2 tsp

Garam masala powder-1/4 tsp.

Water/vegetable stock-4- 5 cups

Flax seeds/ melon seeds/ pumpkin seeds- 2 tsp for garnish

Low fat cream/fresh cream/almond cream- 1 tsp garnish

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the soup.

2. Heat oil in a pan, add in the Bayleaf, onions, garlic and saute for a few seconds.

3. Add in the green peas, potato, salt and all spices, flavorings, herbs etc and mix well for 30 seconds.

4. now add in the liquid and bring to a boil, simmer for 10-15 mins and cool, puree and strain the soup well.

5. bring it back to a boil, check for seasonings, adjust the texture and serve hot.

Chefs Variations: 

For Veg: to make it more nutritious try adding ginger, green chili, soy chunks/ tofu as an option.

For added green color we can also add spinach leaves, fresh basil leaves, broccoli etc as well.

For Non-Veg: can use chicken stock as well to make the soup and later add boiled chopped chicken in the soup and bring to a boil.

Recipe- 2] MATTAR GASHTI WALA PESTO PASTA

Ingredients:

For the Mattar Pesto:

Green peas- 1 cup boiled

Green chili- 1 tsp chopped

Fresh coriander leaves- ½ cup

Fresh mint leaves- ¼ cup

Fresh basil leaves- 1/2cup

Salt and pepper to taste

Lime juice- 2 tbsp.

Garlic- 1 tsp chopped

Oil/olive oil- 3-4 tbsp.

Chilled water- 2-3 tbsp.

Cashews/ almonds/ peanuts- 2-3 tbsp.

For the Pasta:

Use any choice of pasta as desired- penne/fusilli/macaroni etc to be boiled until just cooked and refreshed with cold water, a little sprinkle of olive oil and kept aside.

To Assemble the Dish:

Sliced saute mushrooms/ Babycorn/ blanched broccoli/ zucchini cubes/ roasted or grilled brinjal slices/ cooked sliced tandoori chicken/ saute masala prawns/ sliced grilled fish/scrambled eggs/ shredded double fried eggs/sun-dried tomatoes/canned tuna fish etc can all be a choice of additional ingredients which we can add to our pasta dish.

Elements of Garnish: 

Parmesan cheese shavings- ¼ cup or any cheese of your choice can be used. 

Cherry tomatoes- 4-5 cut 1 x2

Black olives/ green olives- 4-5 sliced

Fresh herbs like parsley/basil/coriander/mint etc.

Method:

1. Prepare the mattar pesto dressing and keep chilled in the fridge.

2. Work on the boiled pasta and keep it chilled as well.

3. In a mixing bowl combine together the sauce and pasta and choose from the add-on list and incorporate that as well here and toss the salad well.

4. Arrange the dressed pasta on a salad/serving plate and choose from the garnishes and serve immediately.

Recipe-3] KHUSHNUMA HARE MATTAR KA DIP

Ingredients

Green peas- 1 and a half cup boiled.

Blanched spinach leaves- 1 cup

Fresh coriander and mint-1 cup mix

Green chili-2 no cut

Garlic-1 tsp chopped

Celery- ¼ cup stem part cut

Olive oil/oil- 3-4 tbsp.

Salt and pepper to taste

Roasted crushed peanuts- 2-3 tbsp.

Chilled water-3-4 tbsp.

Method:

1.Prepare all the ingredients for the dip.

2. Using a grinder jar, we shall combine all these ingredients and blend it into a coarsely smooth texture, chilled water will help us to get the desired texture without discoloring it.

3. Add lime/rock salt/ chaat masala as per taste/add any seeds like sunflower/ roasted sesame seeds/pomegranate seeds etc for a crunch as well.

4. Chill the dip until being served, drizzle a little olive oil/sesame oil etc on top and serve with crackers/sticks of veggies/lavash/ toasted garlic bread/grilled or baked potatoes/chicken on skewers, etc. I also tried adding tofu/cream cheese/grated cheese/grated paneer into the same dip as well for variety.

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Kamats restaurant installs Sanitary Napkin Vending Machines

Hygienic and clean washrooms have been a prominent issue in the rural parts of our country. When we travel on the highways from one city to another, the one problem every woman and child faces is finding a hygienic washroom in between their journey. There are many public washrooms that we pass through, but hygiene is something that we cannot count on. To eradicate this problem once and for all, Kamats Restaurants, being a highway restaurant brand made it a mission to become a pit-stop with having a clean washroom, changing rooms, and pocket-friendly fresh food, keeping the quality of food persistent.

When asked Dr. Vikram Kamat about his thoughts on the same, he said, "Kamats has always been serving fresh and hygienic food to all its customers but when I joined the business, the first thing I tried focusing on, was the hygiene factor of our washrooms. A lot of road travelers in our country choose internationally famous brands for using their washrooms while they crave eating hot and fresh Indian meals. This made me think about the importance of clean washrooms for Indian road travelers along with great food. Therefore trying to bridge this gap we have ventured into making all Kamats provide not only hygienic food but also clean washrooms so that our guests can eat and freshen up in comfort at the same pit stop.”

He further added saying, “Along with clean washrooms, beginning from Kamats Karad, we have also started installing sanitary napkin vending machines at our women's washrooms. This will not only help our business but also improve us as a community and make Indian highway restaurants a preferred option too. This initiative is also aimed at our country's overall mission towards good hygiene and promoting local businesses and Kamats being an iconic brand it only makes us proud to contribute towards our own country and society.”