The hospitality industry is at a turning point. The question is no longer "Will AI take my job?" but "Am I evolving fast enough to keep up?" This is not a threat. It is a career revolution.
Read MoreGoa: If you're looking for a place in Panjim that brings together great food, a relaxed vibe, and a gorgeous ambience, Raia Ristorante & Bar should be on your list. Founded by Sahana Kumar, Raia is all about good times, delicious bites, and an atmosphere that feels just right. The name Raia comes from the word that symbolizes rays, and you’ll see why as soon as you step in. Huge glass walls flood the space with natural light during the day, giving it a bright and airy feel. By evening, the warm lighting, cozy grey sofas, and bottled green chairs set the perfect mood, while the stunning wooden brown bar adds a touch of charm.
If you love open-air dining, the outdoor section is a dream. Sun-kissed and surrounded by greenery, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. Whether you're catching up with friends over a lazy brunch, enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, or simply soaking in the refreshing breeze with a drink in hand, this space makes every moment feel special
Talking about the menu is a mix of flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more. Whether it’s the indulgent Sikandar Raan, the creamy Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli, a perfectly cooked Beef Steak with Corn Polenta, or the flavorful Chicken Kepsa, there’s something for everyone. And what’s a great meal without a great drink? Try cocktails like the refreshing Herb & Spirit, the fruity Melon Tini, the bold Pineapple Spice, the crisp Gin Kyuri, or the smooth Rum Gingerly—each one made to perfectly complement your food. And to end your meal on a sweet note, enjoy the Motichur tres leches or seradura
And if you’re a pizza lover, you’re in for a treat! Raia serves Open Live Wood Fire Pizzas, made fresh right in front of you. That smoky, crispy crust, the melty toppings—it’s everything you love about a great pizza. Whether you prefer the classics or like to mix things up, these pizzas are made just the way you like them.
But Raia isn’t just about the food and drinks—it’s about the whole experience. The vibe here is warm, vibrant, and full of life, thanks to a tropical color scheme inspired by Goa’s lush landscapes. Every little detail, from the handcrafted furniture to the thoughtfully curated spaces, comes together to create the perfect setting for unforgettable moments.
"Raia is more than just a restaurant—it’s a space where people can come together, enjoy great food, and feel at home. We wanted to create an experience that blends warmth, flavour, and a welcoming atmosphere, whether you’re here for a casual meal or a special celebration." — Sahana Kumar, Founder of Raia Ristorante & Bar.
Whether you're planning a laid-back brunch, a cozy dinner, or just drinks with friends, Raia Ristorante & Bar is the perfect place to make every moment special. With its inviting ambience, delicious food, and carefully crafted cocktails, it’s not just about dining—it’s about creating memories. So come over, take a seat, and let the good times flow. After all, every meal at Raia is a celebration of flavors, laughter, and togetherness!
Address: Hotel Varanda Do Mar, Miramar, Panaji, Goa
The TAAI WOW Awards, launched on the occasion of International Women's Day, honored the leading ladies of the tourism fraternity. As part of this initiative, TAAI (Travel Agents Association of India) office bearers presented the TAAI WOW Scroll of Honour to Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka.
The Chairman of TAAI, Karnataka Chapter, Mr. Niranjan S Bhargava said "Ms. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary of the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, was honored with the TAAI Women of Wonder (WoW) Award in 2025 for her significant contributions to the tourism sector".
The TAAI WoW Awards recognized 75 women leaders across India, highlighting their pivotal roles in shaping the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries.
Photograph - from left to right
Mr. Balaji, Treasurer, TAAI Karnataka, Mr. Amish Desai, MC Member, TAAI, Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Karnataka Tourism, Mr. Niranjan S Bhargava, Chairman, TAAI, Karnataka, Mr. Jitendra Shetty, Secretary, TAAI, Karnataka
About Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI)
Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) was incorporated during 1951, 4 years after Indian Independence. It continues most effectively with quality growth and ability to support industry growth. TAAI is India’s premier, nodal, largest and oldest Travel & Tourism Association.
TAAI’s membership of about 2,500+ leading Indian companies involved actively with Tourism brings to its members constant guidance from our 20 Regional Units, which is unique to TAAI and its development of Leadership. TAAI’s area of activity extends to areas of Aviation; Tourism – outbound & inbound; MICE – inbound & outbound; Adventure Tourism; Sports Tourism; Education etc. Our Members are involved in all these activities and there is no other Travel & Tourism Association in India with this strength and band-width offering leadership to this most growing industry.
~Bangalore’s Hottest New Restaurant Opens~
Bangalore, India- March 2025— A new era of fine dining arrives in the city with Fervor, a 36-seater contemporary restaurant redefining modern European cuisine with a Michelin-caliber approach. Conceptualized and helmed by Chef Aditya Varma, a Bangalore native with an impressive culinary pedigree from Toronto’s top Michelin-recognized restaurants, Fervor is an intimate, chef-driven space where French techniques, bold flavors, and meticulous craftsmanship meet the warmth of Indian hospitality.
After honing his craft in Toronto’s renowned dining establishments, including Michelin-starred Alobar and Quetzal, Chef Aditya Varma returns to his hometown to create an experience that transcends traditional fine dining. His menu is deeply personal, blending French culinary precision with locally inspired elements, ensuring each dish is both technically refined and effortlessly playful. Fervor is not just a restaurant—it’s an extension of my passion. Every plate tells a story, every detail is intentional, and above all, it’s about creating a dining experience that is warm, exciting, and deeply personal,” says Chef Aditya.
Fervor isn’t just about the food—it’s about stripping away the formalities of fine dining and bringing guests into the creative process. With an open kitchen and an interactive bar counter, diners are given a front-row seat to the magic behind each plate, creating an experience that is both immersive and intimate.
The interiors of Fervor reflect the restaurant’s core philosophy—intimacy, precision, and personality. Designed to feel both elegant and inviting, the space draws inspiration from classic French bistros and the fluidity of Art Nouveau. A bold yet inviting mix of deep teal-green walls, a blush-pink floor, and warm golden lighting creates an intimate and stylish setting. Classic bentwood bistro chairs and plush bar stools allow guests to experience the space in different ways—whether seated at a table or engaging directly with the chef at the open kitchen bar. Draped golden chandeliers, wooden-framed windows, and a vaulted ceiling enhance the space’s elegance, while custom-designed elements bring in an unmistakable sense of personality.
Fervor is a space where technical expertise meets unfiltered creativity. By removing rigid formalities, it fosters a deeper connection between diners and the culinary craft. The ever-evolving menu ensures each visit offers something new, reflecting the chef’s inspirations and seasonality of ingredients. More than just a restaurant, Fervor is a statement of craft, vision, and culinary storytelling. Each detail—from the curated menu to the immersive design—has been meticulously crafted to offer guests an experience unlike any other in Bangalore.
Featuring 181 rooms, the resort will further strengthen IHG’s presence in India’s key leisure destinations.
India, 26 March, 2025: IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement with Girija Land Ventures Pvt Ltd to develop Crowne Plaza Resort Jim Corbett. Scheduled to open in Q1 2027, the signing marks the debut of the Crowne Plaza brand in Jim Corbett, reinforcing IHG’s commitment to expand its portfolio in well-known leisure destinations across the country.
As one of world’s largest premium hotel brands with locations in city, airport, resort and suburban destinations, Crowne Plaza is perfectly placed to meet the needs of today’s guest, whether they are travelling for business, leisure, or a blend of both. There are currently eight operating Crowne Plaza hotels in India with the portfolio set to double soon with eight more in the pipeline.
Located in Ramnagar, the gateway to the renowned Jim Corbett National Park, the hotel will offer 181 well-appointed rooms designed to cater to both leisure and business travelers. With over 300,000 visitors annually, Jim Corbett National Park is one of India’s most popular wildlife sanctuaries and is fast emerging as a prime destination for MICE events and weddings. Adding to its appeal, the hotel is conveniently located near key attractions such as Garjiya Devi Temple and Corbett Falls, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking both nature and culture.
Once operational, Crowne Plaza Resort Jim Corbett will offer four dining options, including an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, a specialty restaurant, and a lobby lounge. The hotel will also feature banquet halls and versatile meeting venues, making it an ideal destination for social gatherings, and corporate events. Guests will have access to a club lounge, spa, swimming pool, and fitness center, ensuring a relaxing and memorable stay. Additionally, the hotel will house dedicated retail spaces for an enhanced guest experience.
Commenting on the signing, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are delighted to partner with Girija Land Ventures Pvt Ltd to launch Crowne Plaza Resort Jim Corbett, strengthening IHG’s commitment to bring quality branded accommodation to key destinations. As one of India’s most sought-after wildlife getaways and a rapidly emerging venue MICE opportunities, Jim Corbett is a natural fit for Crowne Plaza’s premium offerings. With improved connectivity and rising tourism demand, we are confident that Crowne Plaza Resort Jim Corbett will be a great fit for the destination and will set a new benchmark for hospitality in the region, catering to guests seeking both business and leisure experiences.”
Mr. Avinash Kumar Jha, Director, Girija Land Ventures Pvt Ltd, added “We are pleased to collaborate with IHG Hotels & Resorts to bring the Crowne Plaza brand to Jim Corbett. With IHG’s global expertise and our deep local insights, we are confident that this premium hotel will elevate the hospitality experience in the region. Its prime location, coupled with IHG’s renowned service standards, will make it a sought-after destination for both leisure and business travelers seeking a seamless blend of comfort and nature.
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