Category Archives: Hotels

International hospitality brand, Atmosphere Core has made two pivotal leadership appointments, reinforcing its commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and fostering a people-first culture. Maurice Lucien Van Den Bosch as General Manager of RAAYA Maurice Lucien Van Den Bosch returned to the Atmosphere Core family as General Manager of RAAYA by Atmosphere. Born in Australia, Bosch draws from the country’s renowned laid-back yet dynamic culture in his leadership style, fostering a spirit of inclusivity, adventure, and warm hospitality. He brings over 24 years of expertise in resort management, with a demonstrated ability to exceed profit targets, cost-effectively develop new projects, and lead culturally diverse teams with motivation and efficiency. Maurice’s extensive experience includes leadership roles at some of the world’s top hospitality brands in the Maldives, Sri Lanka and the Caribbean. A familiar face within the Atmosphere Core family, Maurice has served as General Manager at both OZEN LIFE MAADHOO and Atmosphere Kanifushi.     Milan Mookerjee as Vice President of Human Resources Milan Mookerjee has been appointed as the Vice President of Human Resources, Atmosphere Core. Veteran Human Resources leader, Mookerjee will oversee talent management and employee growth initiatives across the Atmosphere Core’s resorts in the Maldives. With over 15 years of industry experience, he is a seasoned professional known for aligning HR initiatives with business goals and fostering a human-centric culture. Before joining Atmosphere Core, Milan served as Head of Human Resources and Training at Encalm Hospitality, where he led HR and training functions to drive business growth. He has also held several HR leadership roles at prominent companies in India, with a proven ability to develop talent and design learning programmes tailored to business needs.

Speaking about the significance of research and data in the tourism industry, Suman Billa, IAS, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism said, “Being in the sector which is vast and multifaceted, it is essential to have accurate and comprehensive data to inform our decisions. While government data provides a solid foundation, it often captures only one facet of the entire landscape. To truly understand the dynamics of the tourism and hospitality sectors, we must triangulate this data with insights from industry bodies, international organisations like the WTO, and other reliable sources.”

Puneet Chhatwal, MD & CEO, IHCL, has announced that IHCL has committed to skilling 100,000 workers in hospitality industry by 2030. He stressed that addressing the sector’s talent shortage is crucial for future growth, especially as India’s tourism infrastructure continues to expand.

One Rep Global, India’s award-winning luxury sales and marketing representation company, announced a distinguished addition to its portfolio, Lošinj Hotels & Villas, an extraordinary collection of luxury retreats nestled in Croatia’s scenic Losinj island. This collaboration reinforces One Rep Global’s dedication to delivering unparalleled luxury experiences to discerning Indian travellers. Nestled in the stunning Croatian archipelago, Lošinj Hotels & Villas offers an unrivalled blend of Mediterranean charm, luxurious accommodations, and world-class wellness experiences. With properties such as the Boutique Hotel Alhambra and Hotel Bellevue, the Lošinj Hotels & Villas are celebrated for their sophisticated architecture, impeccable service, and unwavering commitment to sustainability, creating experiences that seamlessly blend luxury with a deep respect for nature. As the exclusive PR representative for Lošinj Hotels & Villas, One Rep Global will focus on elevating awareness among India’s affluent travellers. The initiative will spotlight Losinj collection of opulent accomodations, historic villas and rejuvenating wellness retreats, catering to eco-conscious travellers seeking immersive experiences that harmonise luxury and nature. Hemant Mediratta, Founder, CEO, One Rep Global, commented on the new partnership, “We are thrilled to welcome Lošinj Hotels & Villas into our portfolio. The brand embodies the essence of luxury that Indian travellers desire-exclusive, immersive experiences rooted in heritage and wellness. We look forward to unveiling this hidden Mediterranean treasure to those who seek not just a destination but a profound experience.” Yvan Vermeesch, Owner, Managing Director, XO Private and Advisory Board, One Rep Global, added: “Lošinj is the epitome of luxury and wellness, offering an unparalleled experience for families and celebrations alike. It is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean, uncharted and untouched, making it the perfect escape for discerning travellers. The island’s rich diversity, …

Diana Marin Acosta, Senior Vice President, Head of Global & Luxury Sales, Minor Hotel, said that they want to keep growing partnerships and build brand awareness by organising roadshows in India. “We are ready to open one property in Jaipur next month and are committed to opening 50 hotels in the following years,” she added.

Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, inaugurated FHRAI’s Centre of Excellence in New Delhi. Billa, said, “It will create a comprehensive data ecosystem and play a vital role in generating analytical insights that can guide government policy and help us better support the industry.”

The five-star Sofitel Sydney Wentworth officially unveils its extensive $70 million refurbishment, with final completion set for November. Ushering in a new era of French-inspired luxury and understated grandeur, the rebirth of this Sydney icon coincides with the Diamond Jubilee of the global Sofitel brand, celebrating 60 years. The five-star Sofitel Sydney Wentworth unveils its extensive $70 million (AUD) refurbishment with final completion set for November. Created by Qantas in the 1960s, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth has a storied history, spanning over half a century. Central to the hotel’s refurbishment vision was reigniting the ’60s jet-set glamour that characterised its original charm when it opened as Australia’s premier international 5-star hotel, attracting royals, movie stars, and dignitaries. The aim was to modernise this golden era for the 21st century. The refurbishment encompassed 436 guest rooms and suites, the Sofitel Club Millésime, health and wellness centre (with exciting updates to come), public spaces including the grand entrance lobby, and state-of-the-art conference and event spaces. Pivotal to the transformation is Sofitel Sydney Wentworth’s partnership with prominent Sydney hospitality group House Made Hospitality. They have created an exceptional multi-venue drinking and dining precinct within the luxury hotel, with two restaurants – tilda and Delta Rue, two bars – bar tilda and Wentworth Bar, and one of Sydney’s largest outdoor terrace bars. With much of the refurbishment led by architecture and interior design firm FK, the hotel embodies the essence of ‘Modern Heritage.’ The building was originally designed in a post-war minimalist style, opening in 1966 with a modernist interior, and was the largest brick structure in the southern hemisphere. Enabling the building to reflect the spirit of its time, the design seeks to capture …

Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre and Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre – Managed by Accor, announced key appointments to its leadership team. Manik Vishnoi has been appointed as the new Director of Operations, bringing with him nearly two decades of experience in the Food & Beverage industry, having worked with brands like Marriott International, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), and Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Throughout his career, he has managed diverse teams across various cities. His journey includes positions at Hyatt Regency New Delhi, Grand Hyatt Mumbai, JW Marriott Mumbai, JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity & Marriott Jaipur Convention Centre. Manik’s experience spans key locations such as Mumbai, Jaipur, Bengaluru, New Delhi and Kolkata, allowing him to cultivate a deep understanding of regional tastes and service styles. Most recently, he served as the Director of Food & Beverage at Hyatt Regency Kolkata, West Bengal. His expertise includes managing topline budgeting, revenue strategy, F&B promotions, along with cost control, pricing, guest satisfaction, and team development, making him a valuable asset to the company. Neha Choudhary joins as the Marketing & Communications Manager, bringing over 14 years of experience, including 10 years in journalism with leading publications like The Times of India Jaipur, Daily News and Analysis, and Rajasthan Patrika. After transitioning into corporate communications at AU Small Finance Bank, Neha moved into the hospitality sector, taking on marketing and communications at DoubleTree by Hilton Jaipur Amer. Her shift into hospitality has brought a fresh perspective, blending her expertise in content writing, public relations, marketing, and brand-building. Neha’s strategic leadership will be pivotal in driving the marketing efforts of this massive hotel complex and enhancing the brand image. Abhishek Sharma has been appointed as the …

Accepting the ‘Leading Hotel Chain for Business Travellers’ award on behalf of the hotel group, Sudhir Jena, Vice President, Corporate, Lords Hotels and Resorts, says, “I believe that the industry’s future is characterised by its evolution through technology, personalised services, and offbeat locations. The industry is headed in the right direction, and I foresee a bright future for Indian tourism.”    

At 54th FHRAI Annual Convention, Pradeep Shetty, President, FHRAI, highlighted the need for long-term financing in the hospitality sector, with current funds only available for 7-8 years. He urged for regulatory reforms, including streamlined licensing and single-window systems, to unlock the industry’s full potential.