Category Archives: Hotels

Apart from a slight decrease in the average daily rate (ADR) of Delhi and Goa, all other major markets like Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai showed considerable growth in ADR and revenue per available room figures, with Hyderabad leading the list. The city recorded the highest RevPAR growth of 23.6% in Q3 2024 as compared to Q3 2023. Although occupancy levels remained relatively stable across the board in Q3 2024 compared to Q3 2023, ADR levels improved, leading to an increase in RevPAR across all major markets.

Hilton has announced the signing of a strategic licensing agreement (SLA) with Olive by Embassy to open 150 Spark by Hilton hotels across India, marking the brand’s debut in Asia Pacific. The agreement comes as a result of Hilton’s long-standing partnership with The Embassy Group, owners of Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park. This agreement reinforces Hilton’s ambitious growth in South Asia and brings a new premium economy brand to the dynamic Indian market. The first Spark by Hilton hotels will open in Southern India with a focus on Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. “This landmark signing with Olive by Embassy underscores Hilton’s bold ambition in and long-term commitment to South Asia,” said Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific at Hilton. “Spark by Hilton will address a gap in the Indian market, offering affordable stays without compromise, and capturing unmet demand for value and consistency across major and smaller cities. Not only will this partnership set the stage for record-breaking growth, but it also positions Hilton to achieve a commanding presence in one of the world’s largest lodging markets.” Launched in 2023, with 100 hotels at various stages of development, Spark by Hilton is the fastest launch-to-open brand in Hilton’s history. The conversion-friendly, premium economy brand is aimed at the aspirational and value-seeking traveler and is renowned for delivering reliable essentials and friendly service for every guest at an accessible price point. Spark by Hilton hotels in India will be characterized by thoughtful simplicity and reliable service. The public spaces will feature multi-functional seating from communal tables to rocking chairs, offering plenty of options for guests to enjoy …

IHG has signed a management agreement with Aaraki Hotels & Resorts to develop Holiday Inn Resort Dharamshala. The latest signing underscores IHG’s commitment to expand its footprint across key leisure destinations in India. Scheduled to open in Q3 2027, the new hotel will add 150 keys to IHG’s growing presence in the region. Commenting on the signing, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, stated, “We are thrilled to partner with Aaraki Hotels & Resorts to bring the iconic Holiday Inn brand to Dharamshala, which perfectly aligns with our growth strategy in India’s high-demand leisure markets. As travel preferences shift toward unique and experiential getaways, destinations like Dharamshala are emerging as top choices for both domestic and international travelers, drawn by its spiritual depth, natural beauty, and year-round appeal. The signing of this hotel underscores our commitment to expanding IHG’s presence in key leisure destinations, offering travelers globally recognized brands and memorable experiences.” He further added, “We are certain that Holiday Inn Resort Dharamshala will set a new benchmark in the region, providing guests with a perfect blend of the brand’s timeless appeal and modern innovations tailored to today’s travelers. By introducing our Open Lobby concept, alongside thoughtfully designed accommodations and dining experiences, we aim to deliver an elevated stay that resonates with both domestic and international tourists.”

Mamaka by Ovolo welcomes its newest culinary rockstar, Chef Anuj Kumar Ray. Hailing from the heart of India, Jabalpur, where the Narmada River flows and riverside cooking was his teenage playground, Chef Anuj has arrived and making waves with a bold mission; to take Indian cuisine to the next level without forgetting the true essence and heritage of Indian food. Chef Anuj is bringing his fiery passion, innovative flair, and mouthwatering flavours to the vibrant culinary scene at Mamaka by Ovolo. Chef Anuj’s culinary journey began as a teen with chulha-style (brick stove) riverside feasts, whipping up smoky curries and kebabs against stunning scenic backdrops. What started as fun weekends with friends soon turned into a full-blown obsession with the art of cooking. Mamaka and Chef Anuj’s specialty will be crafting all of our spice blends in-house, from garam masala and chaat masala to chai masala. “After a decade of honing my craft, I am ready to elevate Indian cuisine in Bali and redefine what it means to experience authentic Indian flavours. Get ready to be amazed as I bring the heat to Kuta’s vibrant culinary scene,” said Chef Anuj Kumar Ray. The resort’s signature makhani masala, which is featured in dishes like butter chicken and dal makhani, is inspired by the rich flavours of North India, and the dal makhani is traditionally slow cooked for 24 hours, ensuring deep, authentic taste. Snacks, like street-style aloo chaat, draw inspiration from the bustling streets of Jaipur, while our samosas reflect flavours from central India. Poha, one of the most popular Indian breakfast items, originates from Indore city in central India, and it is a personal favourite of mine, along with the …

Highlighting that India is an important market for Marriot, David Marriott, Chairman, Marriott International, said, “India is our fifth-largest market in the world. We have 17 brands among which JW Marriott has been a popular one in India. We have 10 hotels open and five are on the way. Due to growing opportunities, our focus is now on secondary and tertiary markets.”

Referring to the manpower shortage in the Indian hospitality sector at the FHRAI’s HR Summit, Pradeep Shetty, VP, FHRAI said that many skilled employees have exited the industry after the COVID-19 pandemic. “A workforce gap remains, with an estimated need for an additional 100,000–150,000 skilled workers annually,” he said, adding that with projections for India’s hospitality industry to nearly double by 2029, reaching an estimated value of $475.37 billion, we have tremendous growth potential.

InterGlobe’s new lifestyle hotel brand in Europe, Miiro, continues its expansion with the addition of The Mansard, Gstaad, to its growing portfolio. This marks the brand’s entry into Switzerland and positions it as a key player in the European hospitality landscape. The Mansard will join existing Miiro hotels in Paris and Barcelona, along with new properties opening soon in London and Vienna in 2025. Launched in June 2024, Miiro is a characterful collection of individually designed hotels in the heart of Europe’s most vibrant cities. The 29-room hotel is ideally positioned in the centre of Gstaad, an idyllic ski destination nestled in the Swiss Alps. Overlooking Gstaad’s famed promenade, The Mansard offers a vibrant atmosphere where charming boutiques, luxury shopping, and gourmet dining are just a stroll away. The Hotel’s rooftop bar offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, while the restaurant showcases the finest local ingredients from the Bernese Oberland. The property, which is open year-round, also features a sauna, Miiro’s signature Refresh Room, as well as ski storage facilities. Travellers from India are always on the lookout for unique experiences and The Mansard, Gstaad, provides the perfect charming and romantic escape, offering a blend of alpine luxury along with modern comforts. With its stunning views and exceptional hospitality, The Mansard promises to be an ideal destination for discerning Indian travellers seeking an unforgettable experience in one of Switzerland’s most picturesque settings. Neena Gupta, CEO at Miiro and Executive Director-Group Strategy and International Hospitality for InterGlobe Enterprises, comments: “We are thrilled to be welcoming The Mansard into the Miiro collection this winter, as we continue to explore new opportunities to grow the brand in interesting neighbourhoods across Europe. …

According to its secretary general, MP Bezbaruah, the Hotel Association of India is considering asking the government to provide incentives to small hotel operators for adopting sustainability practices. While big luxury and five-star operators are leading the way on this front, the smaller members of HAI are lagging behind due to the cost of taking up the initiatives.

The India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), a key player in India’s hospitality sector under the Ministry of Tourism, observed ‘Vigilance Awareness Week,’ themed “Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity,” from October 28th to 3rd November, 2024. The campaign emphasised the importance of integrity in our society. During this week, hotel units and divisions of ITDC organised various activities to raise awareness about corruption and how various stakeholders can work together to combat it. The organisation’s Director Finance and Chief Vigilance Officer led the integrity pledge, taken at ITDC Headquarters in Delhi. ITDC also hosted an important session on ‘Cyber Hygiene & Security’ at the Ashok Institute of Hospitality and Tourism Management (AIHTM) at Hotel Samrat, New Delhi. This session brought together AIHTM students and ITDC employees to highlight the importance of staying safe online. Additionally, ITDC organised a “POSH Session” for its officials to promote awareness and adherence to the organisation’s rules and regulations. A training session on “Preventive Vigilance” was also held at ITDC Headquarters, aimed at educating employees about integrity in their work. A highlight of the week was a walkathon involving AIHTM students and ITDC employees. The students also performed a powerful street play “Say No to Corruption.” Lokesh Kumar Aggarwal, Director Finance and CFO, ITDC, said, “Promoting a culture of integrity is vital for both our organisation and the nation. By raising awareness about corruption and its impact, we empower people to contribute to a more transparent society.” To engage AIHTM students, ITDC held fun activities such as poster making, slogan writing, essay contests, and debates, all focused on the theme of fighting corruption. The week concluded with a ‘Vendors Interaction Meet,’ where ITDC officials, including …

Regal Hotels International has launched its ‘Green Meetings’ initiative globally on 29 October, introducing sustainable meeting solutions to minimise environmental impact. Powered by the Institute of Sustainability and Technology, Regal Hotels provides clients with detailed carbon accounting reports to measure event emissions, following their carbon accounting methodology. Clients also have the opportunity to manage their environmental impact through carbon credits, each representing the removal or avoidance of one ton of carbon dioxide or its equivalent in greenhouse gases. Represented by IRIS Reps in India, Regal Hotels offers eco-friendly practices such as sustainable catering, waste management, and low-carbon options, benefiting companies seeking Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, enhanced brand reputation, and community engagement. The campaign is specifically targeted at Travel Management Companies (TMCs) and corporate clients in India, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable event practices.