Redefining luxury with sustainable designs and immersive experiences

It was his passion to merge architecture, design and luxury hospitality that saw Vishal Vincent Tony enter the world of luxury hospitality with Ayatana Hospitality. “The vision was to create unique guest experiences that harmonised with Nature, embodying innovation and sustainability,” says Tony. His architectural background played a pivotal role in shaping this vision. “With Ayatana Coorg as our inaugural project, we adopted pre-fabricated construction methods for guest cottages. This innovative approach not only ensured minimal environmental impact but preserved the natural beauty of the surroundings. Our commitment to sustainability and excellence in design continues to drive Ayatana’s growth and success,” he adds.

At present, Ayatana properties are located in Coorg, Ooty and Morjim, Goa which runs under the name of Azora by Ayatana. When selecting a new location for an Ayatana property, Tony prioritises unique and immersive experiences specific to their surroundings. “The goal is to provide guests with more than just a stay; we want to offer them a distinctive and memorable journey. The key criteria include cultural significance, natural beauty, accessibility and market potential,” he shares. Moreover, Ayatana is committed to uplifting local communities by showcasing their culture to guests and ensuring that modern amenities are provided without disrupting the delicate ecology of the place.

Ayatana Hospitality continuously evolves to meet the expectations of modern travellers. “Our focus has always been on eco-friendly practices and pushing our efforts towards responsible tourism. As more and more travellers are now inclined towards wellness, immersive and relaxation travel, we make conscious efforts to facilitate this experience,” explains Tony.

Tony’s passion for travel and hospitality plays a crucial role in Ayatana’s daily operations and strategic decisions. “Being committed to the hospitality industry and as a travel enthusiast, I want the guests to experience a thoughtfully curated experience. My passion in the field compels me and the team to go beyond and provide an experience that is not only immersive but also eco-conscious,” he says. This passion influences strategic decision-making, from choosing unique locations to investing in sustainability and technology to constantly innovating and elevating the brand and its services.

Ayatana Hospitality sets itself apart with personalised service, unique experiences, and a strong commitment to sustainability. “We provides some of the most natural immersive experiences, making the guests feel connected to their surroundings. The property is built using sustainable building methods, reducing our environmental footprint and supporting local communities,” notes Tony.

Offering tailored experiences and catering to individual preferences are key factors in ensuring guest satisfaction at Ayatana. “A combination of personalised service, unique experiences and a strong commitment to sustainability are the pillars to ensure optimum guest satisfaction. By combining these elements, we deliver a distinctive blend of luxury, authenticity and sustainability, ensuring that our guests leave with unforgettable memories and a desire to return,” emphasises Tony.

To maintain high service standards, Ayatana Hospitality seeks individuals who are passionate about hospitality and create memorable guest experiences. "Attention to detail, adaptability, and excellent communication skills are paramount, ensuring every guest’s needs are anticipated and met with precision. We value a team-oriented attitude, strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate in a supportive work environment,” he explains.

Cultural sensitivity and inclusivity are essential too, given Ayatana’s diverse guest base. Additionally, a commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism aligns with the brand's eco-friendly initiatives.

Explaining how they ensure sustainability while maintaining luxury, he says, “We’ve adopted several sustainable practices at our establishment. We focus on energy conservation by maximising natural light in our guest cottages, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Additionally, our design allows for natural airflow, minimising the need for air conditioning. We use recycled water for non-potable purposes, reducing freshwater usage. To combat plastic waste, we’ve eliminated plastic water bottles and switched to glass bottles. Apart from that, our properties are mindfully constructed, blending seamlessly into the lush surroundings. These initiatives reflect our commitment to sustainability and create a greener experience for our guests.”

Expansion plans are in the pipeline too. “We are excited to announce the upcoming launch of Ayatana Arakku Valley and Ayatana Chikmagalur in the near future. Additionally, we will be introducing an Azora property and a city hotel in Electronic City, Bangalore, both situated within Aratt One World, the largest project of our parent company, Aratt Developers. This ambitious project features Ayatana Residences, our most prestigious private residences to date,” he concludes.

Nikita Meshram

BW Reporters