Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

As per JLL India report, as many as 38 branded hotels comprising 3,293 rooms were opened during Q4 (October-December) 2024. Additionally, December 2024 also saw signings of 99 branded hotels comprising 11,943 rooms with the top six markets experiencing year-over-year increases in both Average Daily Rate (ADR).

In a strategic partnership, IHCL joined hands with The Claridges Hotel New Delhi to unveil ‘Claridges Collection,’ which will also include the historic Connemera, Chennai and Blue Diamond, Pune. Claridges Collection is set to build its portfolio across the metro cities with a vision to reach over 20 hotels by 2030. “Currently, IHCL has 375 hotels in its portfolio, with 242 operational and 153 in the pipeline. It is also close to completing 25 new hotels this year.” said Puneet Chhatwal, CEO, IHCL.

Rohan Khaunte, Tourism Minister, Goa stated that the government was working on a new initiative aimed at attracting high-spending international tourists through incentives to specific countries and airlines. Khaunte revealed that from 1 April, all hotels and guest houses in Goa would be required to upload guest data on the Tourism Information Management Enterprises the (TIME) software.

Uttar Pradesh Vidhan Sabha has passed a resolution granting industrial status to hotels, aligning with Rajasthan’s tourism policy. This move is expected to boost investment, reduce operational costs, and accelerate growth in the hospitality sector as the state is currently focusing on expanding tourism in UP.

Pioneering Educational Video Content for the Hospitality Industry in India GRT Hotels & Resorts has launched The GReaT Patashala, a virtual learning YouTube channel aimed at enhancing hospitality training through bespoke Standard Operating Procedure videos. GRT Hotels initially developed the SOP videos for internal training, the initiative has now been expanded to benefit hotel management students, industry professionals, and aspiring hospitality talent. This initiative marks a significant milestone, as GRT Hotels becomes one of the first hotel chains in India to offer such comprehensive educational content to the industry. The launch event at Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels featured esteemed guests, including Mr. Venkatesan Dhattareyan, Regional Director of India tourism, who presided over the ceremony. The event also featured a panel discussion on “Basics and Emerging Trends of Hospitality Training,” with notable participants such as Dr. Sobhana Devi, Assistant Professor, Department of Tourism Studies at Madras Christian College; Dr. Jaisree Anand, Dean of Hotel Management at Vels University; and Mr. Prabu, Joint Registrar at Dr. MGR Educational and Research Institute University. Their insights contributed to a rich dialogue on the future of hospitality training. In a move to further its commitment to inclusivity, GRT Hotels & Resorts signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with V-Sesh, a Chennai-based organization dedicated to connecting differently-abled individuals with suitable employment opportunities. This collaboration aims to utilize ‘The GReaT Patashala’ channel to provide skill development and training, empowering individuals to achieve professional independence. Mr. T. Nataraajan, Deputy Managing Director of GRT Hotels & Resorts, remarked, “I commend our Learning and Development team for their impactful initiative. I encourage them to continue curating relevant videos to enhance professional acumen within the hospitality industry. Additionally, I invite …

Ivory Destination further expands in Kumaon region of Uttrakhand by opening its second property The Chamomile Estate in Guniyalekh, Mukteshwar. The boutique property is fully operational and is a family holiday retreat, like its flagship property The Golden Tusk. Perched on a private 2.5-acre hill in Guniyalekh, a charming tea-growing hamlet, this 7-room Villa Resort offers majestic Himalayan views. The property is adorned with chamomile flowers and will feature unique infusion tea experiences, creating a perfect blend of luxury and nature. The Chamomile Estate’s signature charm lies in its uniquely themed rooms – each inspired by a distinct tea blend – designed to offer both comfort and exclusivity. Every room boasts a private space with panoramic views of the mountains, providing a serene escape for travelers. Equipped with modern amenities, the rooms are thoughtfully categorized based on area, ensuring a tailored experience for discerning travelers. The property is easily accessible by road and air, with Pantnagar Airport being the nearest air hub. Recognizing the needs of families and leisure travelers, The Chamomile Estate has wheelchair access right upto its rooms, features an in-house crèche with a kids’ play area, ball pit, arts & crafts, and fun activities. A dedicated games room caters to both children and adults, ensuring a well-rounded relaxation and entertainment experience. For those seeking wellness and rejuvenation, the indoor Jacuzzi and steam room offer stunning Himalayan views, allowing guests to unwind while soaking in warm, muscle-relaxing waters. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy a scenic trek directly from the property, with picnic baskets packed on request for an immersive nature experience. The estate also houses a multi-cuisine restaurant, offering curated tea-tasting menus upon request. For a touch of nostalgia, …

Indian weddings are a beautiful blend of tradition, culture, and contemporary elegance, evolving into highly personalized celebrations that reflect the unique stories of two families coming together. As weddings in India become more immersive and heartfelt, the Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) is introducing ‘The Art of Weddings by Radisson Hotels’—a thoughtfully curated concept designed to craft unforgettable, personalized, and seamless wedding experiences for the modern couple. The grand unveiling took place in Goa at an exclusive event attended by RHG’s leadership, key industry partners, and hospitality visionaries. The event showcased a redefined approach to wedding celebrations, blending modernity with cultural richness. The Art of Weddings by Radisson is designed to tell every couple’s beautiful story, it offers highly curated and personalized experiences. From intimate ceremonies at resort locations to grand celebrations in bustling cities, RHG’s extensive portfolio of hotels across regions ensures that every wedding is accessible and tailored as per every couple’s vision. Built on four core pillars — seamless celebrations, heartfelt hosting, timeless traditions, and elevated experiences — the concept ensures a thoughtfully curated journey for every couple. From leveraging intuitive digital tools for effortless planning to crafting region-specific welcome kits and curated cultural experiences, the concept blends modern convenience with deep-rooted traditions. With an extensive network of expert partners, RHG offers bespoke décor, gourmet dining, and immersive rituals that honor the diverse heritage of Indian weddings. Additionally, exclusive collaborations with artisans, planners, and performers allow couples to personalize every moment, creating grand yet intimate celebrations that go beyond the expected. Nikhil Sharma, managing director & COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group, said, “At Radisson Hotel Group, we understand that weddings are not just ceremonies but deeply personal …

India is set to expand its presence at the Arabian Travel Market 2025, which will take place from 28 April to 1 May in Dubai. The country’s participation this year is likely to grow by 41% compared to last year. India’s MOT, along with key exhibitors such as Air India, Air India Express, and regional tourism boards from Goa, Karnataka, MP, and UP, will all be present at the event, showcasing India’s diverse tourism offerings.

Emphasising on bridging the gap between Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and the hospitality sector during HRANI’s  11th Conclave in New Delhi, Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President, HRANI, said, “The direct linkage between hotels, restaurants, and FPOs is a game-changer for both sectors. This model not only ensures high-quality farm-fresh produce for the hotel industry but also enhances farmers’ income.”

Highlighting that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming the go-to tool for Indians, Mohit Joshi, Travel & Destinations Expert, Skyscanner, said, “A remarkable 84% of Indian travellers feel confident using AI tools for planning and booking their travels, with 52% using them for destination research, 50% for flight bookings, 48% for comparing flight and hotel options, and 46% seeking destination inspiration.”