Golden era of Sarova Hotels & Resorts

For Mita Vohra, Board Director of Sarova Hotels & Resorts, hospitality isn’t just a profession. For her, it’s a way of life. From her earliest memories, Vohra was surrounded by the vibrant world of hotels, yet it was the warmth of her family gatherings that got her attracted to the world of hospitality. Even though we had hotels, the parties were entirely home-catered. I was privileged to meet amazing people from across the world,” says she. Meeting people from all walks of life, from distinguished guests to creative minds, fuelled Vohra’s curiosity and passion for exploring new horizons. This journey led her through diverse careers in law, film finance and fine jewellery, each step adding a new layer of perspective and creativity, all while deepening her commitment to the family legacy at Sarova.

Sarova Hotels began as a dream to showcase Kenya’s unparalleled beauty, driven by a spirit of family, friendship and a deep-rooted commitment to conservation and community. As Sarova celebrates 50 years, Vohra reflects on how far they’ve come, and how these values continue to guide their path forward, “The core value system created by our founding fathers imbibed in conservation, community, great food stories, warm smiles and exceptional hospitality stands strong. This defines us and live on as the essence within the brand.” The brand’s footprint now spans nine properties across Kenya, each offering a unique experience from the storied halls of The Stanley Hotel in Nairobi, where history comes alive with tales of legendary guests like the late Queen of England and Bollywood stars, to the soul-stirring landscapes of the Masai Mara at Sarova Mara Game Camp.

Sarova Stanley, Nairobi

Vohra’s favourite escape? The tranquil shores of Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa in Mombasa. “It’s stunning setting, a pearly-white stretch of beachfront peppered with swaying palm trees is everything a tropical getaway should be,” she adds, fondly speaking of Sarova Maiyan, the newest addition perched over the breath-taking Laikipia plains with its stunning views of Mt Kenya, a place that captures the essence of adventure and the promise of new beginnings.

With eyes set on further expansion within East Africa, her vision is clear, to continue crafting experiences that not only showcase the natural wonders of Kenya but also honour the legacy of the founding values, values that are as alive today as they were 50 years ago, embodying the heart and soul of the Sarova brand. For Vohra, it’s not just about growth; it’s about creating places where every guest feels a sense of wonder, joy, and the warmth of a true Sarova welcome.

Tailored excellence
At Sarova Hotels, the emphasis on personalised and versatile event spaces is evident. Vohra explains, “We take pride in offering a diverse range of meeting and event spaces designed to meet the unique needs of our clients. Whether hosting a large-scale conference, a dynamic product launch, or an intimate board meeting, we provide the facilities and expertise to ensure success.”

She also details the tailored approach Sarova Hotels employs, stating, “Each event is managed by a dedicated team that collaborates closely with clients to understand their specific requirements and preferences.” She further elaborates on their customisable services, commenting, “Flexible packages are available, adjustable to fit the size, scope, and budget of any event.” From elegant ballrooms to scenic outdoor settings, the hotel group ensures that each event is crafted to create the perfect ambience.

Crafting unique experiences
Weddings are a significant focus at Sarova Hotels, with a commitment to providing memorable experiences for couples from diverse backgrounds. Vohra notes, “We are dedicated to creating unique and memorable experiences for all couples, including those from Indian and other multicultural backgrounds.”

Vohra emphasises on the importance of cultural sensitivity, stating, “Our team is knowledgeable about various cultural practices and works closely with couples to integrate these traditions into their celebrations.” The approach extends to customised decor and menus, reflecting the couple’s cultural heritage and personal tastes, including traditional Indian cuisine. “We offer bespoke decor and menu options that reflect the couple’s cultural heritage and personal tastes,” she adds. The hotel’s experienced wedding planners ensure a stress-free planning process, guiding couples every step of the way.

Sarova Whitesands Poolside

Authentic culinary experiences and diverse offerings
Sarova Hotels is known for its exceptional culinary offerings, with a particular focus on catering to the tastes of Indian guests. “We understand the differences and the in-depth flavour profiles of Indian cuisine, allowing us to curate menus that satisfy all guests,” he highlights. The hotel’s culinary approach includes authentic Indian cuisine. “Our chefs specialise in Indian cuisine, preparing traditional dishes with authentic spices and ingredients,” explains Vohra, noting the inclusion of vegetarian and vegan options. The diverse dining options have a wide range that extend beyond Indian cuisine to offer international dishes, combining contemporary and traditional flavours. Talking about fresh and sustainable ingredients, she explains, “We use locally sourced ingredients from our organic kitchen gardens to ensure fresh, sustainable dishes.” Vohra also emphasises on the investment in continuous training and development, collaborating with experts like Indian Master Chefs and Pan Asian Chefs to cater to diverse palates.

Integrating local culture
Sarova Hotels integrates local culture into the guest experience, particularly through the involvement of the Maasai community. Vohra shares, “The Maasai community is integral to our brand, offering deep, ancient knowledge of the land, wildlife and conservation.” This includes unique experiences such as wildlife tracking and guided safaris, as well as cultural elements like Maasai blessings at weddings.

The hotel group supports local artisans and community involvement, “We host Maasai dancers and support local villages offering handmade jewellery and crafts,” says Vohra. This engagement not only enhances the guest experience but supports and preserves local traditions.

Sarova Mara, Game Camp

Commitment to environmental responsibility
Sustainability is a core focus for Sarova Hotels, with numerous initiatives in place. Vohra highlights their approach, stating, “Sustainability is at the core of our operations. Our commitment includes wildlife conservation, tree planting, ecosystem enhancement, and community support.” The hotel’s sustainability efforts include training and management which Vohra explains, “We integrate sustainable practices through ongoing training and a dedicated Sustainability Manager overseeing our efforts. Other initiatives like eliminating single-use plastics, investing in renewable energy, and implementing recycling programmes are also part of the hotel’s efforts. Apart from that guest communication and involvement and cost-effectiveness also play an important part as she explains, “We focus on operational efficiency and gradual implementation to manage costs without affecting guest experience.”

Expanding presence in India
Looking ahead, Sarova Hotels has a strategic plan to enhance its presence in India. Vohra outlines, “Our strategy for promoting Sarova Hotels in India includes a robust approach with roadshows and trade shows in key cities.” The focus will be on targeted segments for leisure, MICE, and weddings, ensuring a comprehensive promotion of their diverse offerings and unique experiences.