By Bikramjit Ray PULLMAN AND the Novotel at New Delhi’s Aerocity was formally launched at a function which had as special invitees Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Ashok Gajapathi Raju Pusapati; French Ambassador to India, Francois Richier; Sebastien Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, AccorHotels. Kapil Bhatia, Executive Chairman, InterGlobe Enterprises Ltd; and Peter T Meyer from APHV India Investco Pte Ltd, represented AccorHotels strategic joint partners in the project. The Pullman at Aerocity, New Delhi was the 100th in the world and I got the opportunity to speak exclusively with Sebastien Bazin at the event. I began by asking Sebastien Bazin (see photo) about AccorHotels experience with the Indian market. ’It’s been almost 30 years since we first entered the Indian market. We started here on a very humble note, trying to understand the market. We have been believing for a long time that the prospects in India are mindboggling, beyond imagination,’ he began. It is India’s size, geography, architectural heritage, civilisation and people that make it so, he added. AccorHotels began slowly and today with 35 hotels are one of India’s largest international hotel operators, according to Bazin. ’We have a huge appetite, but we are going to be doing it the Indian way. We are global thinkers, but local executors. We need people on the ground, which is why we have signed 45 new contracts today,’ he told me. Since AccorHotels- is a professional, international operator, they work well within the rules of the country they work in’which for India is very processing oriented’’If you can't adapt, don't develop’, was one of his takeaways. ’Operating in different markets is a huge advantage because you can measure the risk much better. It’s a huge advantage because you are a better listener when it comes to dealing with local partners and investors. It is a great advantage because the talent that you bring into the country have experience elsewhere, so they are accustomed to surprises,’ he told me when asked what advantage a global outfit like AccorHotels had when it came to operating in varied markets. It is also a great advantage for people working for the company, according to Bazin, because if they were to spend 25 years, they would probably work in ten different countries and build a truly international career. I then asked the standard question for all global CEOs, what was his view of India? ’You can close your eyes and make a ten year bet and you will be right, you can make a 20 year bet and you are going to be even more right. What you don't know is what is in front of you for the next 18 months, because you know it's going to take six months more’, he said. ’Don't be short-sighted, be there for the long run. One thing that people don't understand and I should be repeating is--80 per cent of my guests in India are from India. This is the case in every country where AccorHotels operates. We are here to be the first international accessible, affordable brand for the domestic client. My clients are mostly small and medium size enterprises and I would like to think that we are contributing to developing the economy,’ Bazin added. The biggest challenge of working in India was time. When you put so much work, dedicated talent, architecture, design, regulations, security, furniture and a complete hotel including staff, in place and then not be able to open, it’s a waste, he thought. The biggest reward of working in the Indian market according to Bazin was in tune with the group philosophy of ’Feel Welcome’. ’When I come to India I feel welcome. When I meet your ministers or my business partners, they welcome me and wish me luck. This is the beauty of your market,’ he told me. The three markets globally that Bazin felt bullish about, where he wants to push AccorHotels to grow further, faster and bigger are India at number one, Iran at number two and sub-Saharan Africa. ’The thing these markets have in common are demography, a huge emerging middle class population, ancient civilizations, beautiful historic architecture, natural resources and the need to be open to the world,’ he expounded. ’India has something which is very rare. People here have a smile on their face. They love being of service to other. When you have that in your DNA, you know you are perfect for the hospitality business,’ he concluded. The author is Executive Editor of BW Hotelier.
Read More
By BW Hotelier THE CONCIERGE Association of Western Region successfully completes its 100th Monthly Meeting at St. Regis Mumbai last week. The day started with National Executive Committee Meeting attended by Albert John (Head Concierge of The Imperial, Delhi), Edwin Saldanha (Head Concierge of The Oberoi, Mumbai), Albert Amanna (Head Concierge of InterContinental, Marine Drive), Arun Baidya (Chief Concierge of Shangri-La, Delhi), Kishen Raghunath (Chief Concierge of Ritz Carlton, Bengaluru), Shaunak Vengurlekar (Head Concierge & Guest Service Manager of Waterstones Hotel & Club, Mumbai), Michael Fernandes (Concierge Manager of The Leela), Valencia Albuquerque (Head Concierge of Four Seasons, Mumbai) and Sachin Singh (Head Concierge of Sofitel, Mumbai). This non ’ profit organisation is supported by various five star hotels all the time and this time it was St. Regis Mumbai to have hosted the evening for the Mumbai Concierges in the city along with their associated vendors supporting by advertising in Mumbai City Maps. The Managers of hotels who graced the occasion were Philippe H. Charraudeau (General Manager, ITC Maratha, Mumbai), Allen Machado (Director Operations from InterContinental Marine Drive) and Cajetan Araujo (Hotel Manager of St. Regis Mumbai). Celebration was initiated by Nizam Shaikh (Concierge of St. Regis) after which their Head Butler initiated by opening a bottle of champagne to begin the event as per the tradition of St. Regis. Mr. Cajetan Araujo was then invited to share his welcome note. Edwin Saldanha (Asia Zone Director Les Clefs d’Or International) took over the stage by informing about the upcoming Asian Congress in Mumbai from September 1-3, 2017. He further added by speaking about the associations future and continuous support required from hotel managements for their Concierges to grow their networks and fulfil every guest request. Albert Amanna (01st VP Les Clefs d’Or India) mentioned about the support required from the vendors and partners Locus Media. Albert John (President Les Clefs d’Or India) then took over the stage by thanking all of them attending the event in large numbers. Photo:-Members of Concierge Association of Western Region pose for the camera.
Read More
By BW Hotelier VINOD ZUTSHI, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism heading Indian delegation at World Travel Market (Nov 2-5) in London said that India is aiming to attract one million UK visitors by 2020 through a number of key pro-active initiatives. The Secretary announced that many of the new initiatives will form part of India’s proposed new National Tourism Policy to catapult tourism to greater heights. Following the success of India’s Electronic Tourist Visa scheme, launched in November 2014, proposals are already in process to extend the e-Visa’s validity from 30 to 180 days in 2016. Proposals are also in place to make it available in 150 countries worldwide (currently 113) ensuring multiple or double entry. Through the new Electronic Tourist Visa, applications are generally processed within three working days. Speaking on the occasion Zutshi said that we are committed to make it easy for travelers wanting to come to India, not least through our e-Visa scheme but also the improved air connectivity with India. We aim to attract more visitors through the promotion and development of our niche tourism experiences such as adventure, wellness, golf, spiritual and the ’Paradise Unexplored’- the North East. We are working to improve the infrastructure at many of our beach destinations, the Secretary added. Stressing India’s appeal as a year-round and diverse destination, Zutshi further announced the creation of a new Medical Tourism Board and Golf Promotion Committee, both of which are charged with developing the infrastructure, product and appeal of both medical, wellness tourism and golf. India will also be appointing new tourism marketing representatives in Argentina, Brazil, Russia, China and Japan in the next two years. India’s largest-ever WTM delegation includes representatives from almost all of India’s states with a record attendance of six Tourism Ministers and over 50 private India based Travel Organisations and State Governments. Global tourism arrivals to India in 2014 were 7.68 million, up 10.2 per cent over 2013 ’ India is outperforming global inbound tourism which rose by just 4.7 per cent in the same period. From the UK, visitor arrivals were 838,860 in 2014, an increase of 3.8 per cent over 2013.
Read More
By BW Hotelier CHEF CRISTIAN Cabrera, known for his forte in Italian cuisine has joined Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel as Chef de Cuisine at the Italian speciality restaurant, Fratelli Fresh. Well-known for his authenticity in Italian cuisine, his key responsibilities at Fratelli Fresh includes heading the entire team of Fratelli Fresh and managing the operations of the restaurant while ensuring that the overall duties of the staff are being carried out to the fullest potential. His responsibilities also include innovating new dishes, menu planning and maintaining quality of the dishes. Prior to joining Renaissance Mumbai, Chef Cabrera worked as the Italian Master Chef at The Leela Ambience, Gurgaon. He has also worked at hotels like Grand Hyatt Santiago Banquet as Sous Chef and W Hotels Santiago as Banquet Sous Chef. He has also rendered his excellent services to stand alone restaurants like Ago, Joia, Casa Tua, Caf- Milano, along with cruise lines like Royal Caribbean Cruise, Celebrity Cruise, Princess Cruise Line etc. Highly motivated and a skilled professional, Chef Cabrera is a native of Chile who developed his love for cooking since childhood. Chef comes with excellent credentials and culinary experience in the industry. Chef Cabrera graduated as a technician in culinary arts from National Culinary Institute of Chile I.N.A.C.A.P. After graduating he travelled to France to hone his skills further. Upon his return he began working at Starwood. Chef Cabrera has traveled to the United States to learn new techniques, languages and enhance his culinary skills.
Read More
By BW Hotelier INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS Group (IHG) recently unveiled its 10th Crowne Plaza hotel in India, in the capital city Rajasthan, Jaipur. The hotel is the newest addition to IHG’s growing portfolio in India. Located in close proximity to the Jaipur International Airport, Crowne Plaza Jaipur Tonk Road is a perfect destination for both business and leisure travellers visiting Jaipur, according to a press note issued by IHG. The hotel is located close to Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC) and is situated in the city’s business hub. Spread across 19,500 sq. ft Crowne Plaza Jaipur Tonk has expansive banquet venues to accommodate up to 1200 guests for conferences, meetings, and events. Additionally, the hotel offers service excellence by Crowne Plaza Meeting experts; facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, uninterrupted internet connectivity and well-appointed break-out rooms. Crowne Plaza Jaipur Tonk Road has 218 well-appointed rooms and suites that offer spacious ambience coupled with modern amenities and the latest technology. The rooms are ergonomically designed to offer a harmonious balance between comfort and style. Guests can enjoy a fully-equipped gymnasium and an outdoor pool along with a spa for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests visiting Crowne Plaza Jaipur Tonk Road can relish a selection of exciting food and drink options at any of the five eating & dining venues. For the best of local and international cuisine, guests can dine at Sirocco, the all-day dining restaurant or experience Sichuan delights at House Of Han, the Chinese restaurant. For those looking to unwind after a long day of business engagements or sightseeing the beautiful pink city, the hotel has a high energy bar called ConneXions. Shantha de Silva, Head of South West Asia, IHG commented, ’Crowne Plaza is the fourth largest upscale, full-service, business hotel brand worldwide and with an increase in business travel in India, we see immense growth opportunity for the brand here. It is with great pleasure that we announce the opening of our first Crowne Plaza hotel in Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan. Jaipur is steadily emerging as an important business market in India and with opening of Crowne Plaza Jaipur Tonk Road, we look forward to providing superior services to our guests vising the city for business or for leisure’. IHG currently has 23 hotels operating across four brands in 14 cities in India, including: InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express with a further 48 hotels in the development pipeline.
Read More
By Rashmi Pradhan THE BI-ANNUAL Asian Congress of Union Internationale des Concierges d'Hotels (UICH) Les Clef d'Or will be held in Mumbai, India at Trident Nariman Point from September 1-3, 2017. This is the first time that India is hosting the Asian Congress. The 10th Asian Congress will witness participation of 350-400 concierge from across 25 countries. The 9th Asian Congress was held in Tokyo, Japan in 2015. Edwin Saldanha, Zone Director Asia - Les Clefs d'Or ’ International and Head Concierge, The Oberoi Mumbai, (see photo) told BW Hotelier, ’The Les Clefs d'Or ’ India was formed in 2011 and has 107 concierge members including two from Sri Lanka and seven from Nairobi, Kenya. Les Clefs d’Or, one of the largest association of concierges across 45 countries has 13 countries under the Asia region of Les Clefs d'Or. The Asian Congress is a great opportunity to network with the international concierge members. Les Clefs d'Or-India is obliged to host the bi-annual event since this will give an opportunity to showcase the travel, tourism and hospitality of our country.’ Speaking about the schedule, he said, ’The first day will witness President’s meet in the morning where the Presidents of Les Clefs d'Or Asia will present the annual report and the evening will be the opening ceremony. The second day will be the General Assembly where the President of the host country will make a presentation on tourism trends, tourism offerings, hospitality, best places to travel and updates on tourism. It will be a platform to showcase the world what India and Mumbai has to offer. The third and final day will be a show around of the city. We are in discussions with the concierge of hotels in Mumbai for their support to put up a best show.’ The author is Assistant Editor of BW Hotelier.
Read More
By Rashmi Pradhan WITH 25 properties operational in India, V Resorts, a chain of experiential resorts is looking at expanding to 50 properties across India by December 2015. Speaking to BW Hotelier, Aditi Balbir, Co-Founder & MD, V Resorts, (see photo) said, ’We are looking to ramp up our operations and marketing activities. We have recently launched the new version of our website that will enable online bookings and is user-friendly. With over 385 rooms across 25 properties in India, we aim to operate 700 rooms across 50 properties by December this year.’ Speaking about the expansion, Balbir informed, ’V Resort is based on the hotel aggregator model that runs resorts in the upscale offbeat segment of the Indian leisure industry. We are in the business of offering accommodation at getaway destinations in the premium segment and our resorts are located at the outskirts amidst greenery and natural settings. When we started last year, the focus markets were Mumbai and Delhi and by end of December we will tap the Kolkata market and look at penetrating Hyderabad and Bengaluru markets by next year.’ Balbir added, ’Currently, we have resorts in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Goa, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, as resorts at these destinations are ideal getaways for Mumbaikars and Delhiites. We have resorts in the pipeline in Darjeeling, Matheran, Mahabaleshwar, Amroli, Chikaldhara, Panchmarhi, Rishikesh, Shimla, Mukhteswar, Ajmer, Jaipur, Solan, Tadoba, Dehradun, Dalhousie, Udaipur, etc. These properties will have a room inventory between 15-20 and atleast two restaurants. We run these properties on a revenue sharing agreement with the owners.’ Balbir further added, ’What distinguishes us from other hotel aggregators is the quality of service and efficient manpower. A lot of emphasis is given on training the manpower. We are a chain of branded curated properties with SOPs.’ The author is Assistant Editor of BW Hotelier.
Read More
By BW Hotelier NIRAAMAYA RETREATS, a Jupiter Capital Venture will be opening a luxury boutique property--Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond’in Kumarakom in the second quarter of 2016. Located on the banks of Lake Vembanad, in Kottayam district of Kerala, Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond is the third property to be launched by the Niraamaya Group. Set within 20 acres of lush tropical gardens, Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond will have 28 villas and two houseboats. ’The Kerala Backwaters features on the international tourist map and Kumarakom continues to develop its stature as one of the world’s leading destinations. We are delighted at the opportunity of opening another iconic property here. We look forward to completing an important Kerala circuit with our other two properties Niraamaya Surya Samudra ’ a Relais and Ch-teaux property and Niraamaya Cardamom Club located in Kovalam and Thekkady respectively,’ said Manu Rishi Guptha, CEO, Niraamaya Business Group. Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond also features an Ayurvedic Wellness Centre offering authentic Ayurveda in luxurious environs as well as a floating Yoga Pavilion at the edge of the waters. Featuring two restaurants and a library bar designed to become gastronomical destinations in itself, Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond will offer some of the finest regional as well as global cuisines. Both restaurants will have access to a rooftop garden terrace providing unparalleled views of the lake, while the bar will be connected to a private library. Other facilities will include a 25m large pool with a sunken bar and a large performance deck skirting the pool, a well-equipped Fitness Centre, Conference Room spread over 1000 sq ft, an open air amphitheatre attached to a lawn area for a gathering of up to 200 guests as well as performances and a special Dining Deck on the edge of the Lake.
Read More
TO EMPHASIZE Hyatt’s focus on its rich culinary heritage, Hyatt Hotels in India introduced the ’Hyatt Culinary Challenge - people cooking for people’ in 2014. The first season was a memorable experience for our guests as well as the hotel associates engaged in the preparations. The challenge is back in 2015, with the second season which was held on October 31 across ten Hyatt India destinations. Hyatt India Culinary
Read More
By BW Hotelier MANISH TOLANI has been appointed as Area Director of Sales & Marketing ’ South Asia at Marriott International Inc. With the Marriott since 2003, Tolani brings to the table a decade of experience within the hospitality sector having served at multiple designations. In his new role, he will be leading and overseeing the Sales and Marketing portfolio for the existing 29 Marriott Hotels across India, along with developing core strategies for the upcoming properties across Asia Pacific. He will be part of the core team working on achieving marketing and sales operational objectives, recommendations to strategic plans & reviews and completing action plans, all the while ensuring productivity, quality and customer-service standards. In his last stint, Tolani was the General Manager of the Courtyard by Marriott Pune, Hinjewadi. Graduating from IIHM Aurangabad in 2001, Tolani began his career with the Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. Moving on to the Marriott, his first assignment was with the JW Marriott Mumbai in April 2003 as Assistant Sales Manager. A resolute goal driver backed with a reputation of consistent performance, Manish has been appreciated and recognized for his Special Achievements as leader Sales & Marketing across Asia Pac in 2010, 2011 and 2012. When not at work, Tolani unwinds with family and friends. An extrovert by nature, he enjoys the outdoors, and is a great adventure travel buff. Tolani will henceforth be operating from the Marriott Area Office, Headquartered in Mumbai.
Read More
