Eclat Hospitality Celebrates Nine Years of Partnership with Vikas Mehra

Vikas Mehra
Director - International Placements at Eclat Hospitality

Eclat Hospitality is proud to celebrate nine successful years of collaboration with Vikas Mehra, a dedicated and valued member of our team. This milestone marks a significant chapter in our journey together, highlighting Vikas’s contributions and unwavering commitment to our shared vision.

Vikas’s journey with Eclat Hospitality began during his time as a Hotel Management student. Our paths first crossed when I visited his college as a faculty member, and later, as I took on a more prominent role, we continued to stay in touch. Vikas pursued his dream of gaining international experience, and upon his return to India, he reconnected with a friend who was working with me at that time.

Our first project together was a training assignment that laid the foundation for what would become a fruitful partnership. Vikas joined us full-time, and since then, there has been no turning back. His values and vision have seamlessly aligned with ours, making him an integral part of Eclat Hospitality’s growth and success.

As we reflect on these past nine years, we recognize the significance of having a partner whose principles resonate with our own. Vikas’s dedication has been instrumental in building and leading Eclat Hospitality to where it stands today.

“I cannot thank Vikas enough for choosing Eclat Hospitality, building Eclat Hospitality, and now leading Eclat Hospitality,” said Prabhjot Bedi, Founder and CEO of Eclat Hospitality. “His contributions have been invaluable, and we look forward to many more years of success together.”

Vikas Mehra is Director - International Placements at Eclat Hospitality.

To know more visit www.eclathospitality.com

Post Budget Quote from Mr. Madhavan Menon, Executive Chairman, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (Thomas Cook, SOTC, Sterling Holidays and TCI)

This year’s Union Budget has opened new doors to development, specifically for domestic and inbound tourism. With the focus on special development funds/ programs for the socio-cultural-religious potential of iconic temple corridors including Gaya’s Vishnupad & Mahabodhi temples into world-class pilgrim and tourist destinations (to be modelled on the success of the Kashi Vishwanath temple corridor), the Government of India’s intent is encouraging. Additionally, the comprehensive development of the Rajgir Jain Temple site; rejuvenation of the historical gem of Nalanda & Nalanda University into a major religious-tourist centre, would have a multi-pronged impact. While positioning India as a vibrant global tourism destination, it will also accelerate job creation and economic opportunities for allied sectors.

The Budget also appreciated the underleveraged potential of Odisha's tourism industry by supporting the state’s rich heritage-history, spirituality, craftsmanship and natural beauty.

Recognizing the high potential domestic cruise segment, the Union Budget announcement proposed a simpler tax regime to support/incentivize foreign cruise companies operating in India’s waters.

We’re optimistic about the significant allocation of INR 11.11 lakh crore (constituting 3.4% of India's GDP) towards infrastructure development. The development of road, rail, air, and waterways will ensure a boost to access/connectivity and affordability, and force multiplier benefits for tourism and allied sectors.

When introduced, TCS was considered disadvantageous to salaried employees as their cash flows were negatively impacted. Post the Budget announcement, salaried employees can now avail of immediate credit of TCS paid on account of their foreign travel - against TDS on salary, enhancing the purchasing power of Indian consumers.

The discontinued SEIS scheme should have been reinstated, as this is meaningful towards encouraging inbound tourism, foreign exchange receipts and a force multiplier for employment generation.

We are disappointed to note that key pillars in India’s Tourism agenda - Aviation & Hospitality were not mentioned as part of the Budget and both standardisation of GST rates on hotel tariffs to 12% and the reduction of ATF remained unaddressed.

Post Budget Quote From Vishal Kamat, Executive Director of Kamat Hotels India Limited (KHIL) and Chairman CII Maharashtra State 

"The 2024 budget is notably employment-oriented, addressing the needs of various workforce segments, from those starting from scratch to those in mid and lower-level positions. The adjustments in income tax will provide additional income, bridging the gap between employers and employees' capabilities, which will significantly benefit the workforce.

The emphasis on temple tourism in the budget is commendable. We have witnessed the grassroots impact of such initiatives, benefiting everyone from tea vendors to local grocers when we recently opened our first Ira by Orchid Hotels in Ayodhya. Expanding these efforts to other sacred sites like Kashi Vishwanath and Ayodhya can help uplift entire communities, ensuring that every individual in these holy regions reaps the benefits.

The announcements for MSMEs are also expected to positively impact the overall industry. This budget is a significant step towards fostering employment and economic growth, and we are eager to explore its full implications."


Post Budget Reaction Pulkit Arora, Director, CYK Hospitalities

"Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s budget is a game changer for the tourism sector. India aims to establish itself as a world-class tourist destination, focusing on places that are of immense spiritual importance, which includes Vishnupath temple at Gaya, and Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya, and comprehensive development of the Kashi Vishwanath corridor, and the Brahmkunda of Rajgir and Nalanda, in Bihar.

The Indian Food and Beverage industry rises significantly each year. As India aims to promote world-class tourism experience, this would also benefit the F&B industry. The inflow of tourists - international or domestic would like experience the taste of the local food, which will eventually bring up the demand for local food vendors as well as reputed food brands. This would significantly result in economic and social growth. Also, there will be an increase in local employment opportunities to run successful food businesses and manage tourists in these cities."

Luxurious Accommodation: Beyond Five Star  -By Mr. Mudhit Gupta, Founder & CMD, EMGEE GROUP 

In an era where the concept of luxury is constantly expanding, the field of lavish  accommodations has expanded beyond the traditional limits of five-star ratings. We  have seen the changing definitions of luxury in the Hospitality and real estate industries.  A vision to deliver excellence and innovation has been the foundation of the industry's  success, motivating us to redefine what it means to provide a truly luxurious experience. 

Luxury is no longer just about comforts and elegance. It is about generating  personalized experiences that provide luxurious comfort, exclusivity, and a sense of  belonging. The discriminating traveler or homeowner desires more than just high-end  luxuries; they want an environment that matches their goals, values, and lifestyle.  Branded residences recognize that luxury is a constantly developing story influenced by  individualism, sustainability, and authenticity. Personalization is one of the essential  characteristics that distinguishes today's upscale accommodations. Guests and  residents demand services that are personalized to their individual interests and needs.  From creative interior design to personalized personal assistants, the emphasis is on  providing a smooth and unforgettable experience. With recent developments in Mumbai,  Lonavala and Goa to demonstrate this approach, with each development thoughtfully  designed to provide a distinct living experience to their valued customers. 

Modern luxury is closely related to sustainability and wellness. Conscious living has  emerged as a defining feature of true luxury, with an emphasis on eco-friendly practices  and wellness-focused amenities. Luxury property owners are committed to creating  dynamic, sustainable communities that not only provide the greatest standard of living  but also foster a harmonious relationship with nature. Sustainable building initiatives  and wellness-focused designs are key to our concept of luxury living. The inclusion of  cutting-edge technology is another distinguishing feature of contemporary luxury.  Smart homes that use cutting-edge technology offer unprecedented convenience and  security. New developments incorporate energy-efficient solutions, water conservation,  use of green energy and modern security measures to provide residents with a modern  living experience that is both comfortable and secure. 

These days, luxurious fully fitted branded accommodation also includes artistic and  cultural enrichment. A richer, more meaningful experience is offered by properties that  connect guests to the local way of life, heritage, and artistic expression. The branded  residences take great pleasure in combining regional craftsmanship and culture into  their projects to create visually beautiful yet deeply culturally significant environments.

The essence of luxury accommodation today extends beyond the traditional five-star  classification. It is about providing a whole experience that includes personalization,  sustainability, technology innovation, cultural enrichment, and exclusivity. Owners of  branded luxury accommodations have access to all the Hotel services like butler, room  service, housekeeping etc. work towards these beliefs and motivate to constantly push  beyond the boundaries of luxury, providing unmatched living experiences that exceed  the discriminating customers. 

Looking ahead, the industry remains committed to their aim of redefining luxury by  developing iconic developments that set new industry benchmarks. With each project,  luxury property developers seek to raise the bar for luxurious housing, ensuring that  their residents and guests enjoy the pinnacle of comfort, style, and modification.


EXPERT OPINION | Why should students pursue education and hospitality despite the recent dip in the industry? by Shivani Arora

Fundamentally, hospitality revolves around human connection. The Latin word hospitalitis, which describes the relationship between a guest and a host, is actually where the word hospitality originated, and its importance in both business and education has only grown.

While the past year was tough for all industries alike, the way hospitality industry operates, and education is imparted, has been reshaped. There's never been a better moment to seize the opportunity and join an industry poised to enter the next major stage of development.

All other industries are inextricably linked to the hospitality sector. It's critical to comprehend the skills that students who seek hospitality education will acquire before I respond to your questions about why they should. As I frequently emphasize, hospitality management is a humane approach to conventional business education. And that's precisely what sets this course apart from others, along with the chances it offers.

Contrary to popular belief, a degree in hospitality provides doors for employment in nearly every field. The hospitality industry is not just about hotels and restaurants. Students are well equipped to work in industries like travel and tourism, banking & finance, real estate, consulting, luxury lifestyle & retail, event management and so many more.

In fact, a lot of students decide to go on and become successful entrepreneurs in their chosen field of interest. The unique quality of hospitality education is in its emphasis on human capital. This course is unique because of the ‘transferrable skills’ that students acquire, even though the curriculum includes modules on finance, marketing, economics, human resource management, strategy, law & ethics, entrepreneurship, and other business essentials.

These are skills and traits that stay with students throughout their professional and personal lives, and across industries, no matter what career path they opt for. In fact, according to predictions made by the majority of business periodicals, candidates will stand out for their soft skills, which include problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.

Given a choice between two equally eligible candidates, recruiters are always going to choose an employee which ranks higher on soft skills and emotional intelligence. These transferrable skills are a great asset to one's current skill set and have a significant impact on one's career path. Real-world learning is a significant advantage of a hospitality education. The theoretical as well as the practical aspects of learning are stressed equally.

With the help of case studies, industry narratives, and historical and contemporary organizational models, students can apply theory to real-world situations through this type of industry immersion.

In order to create space for a better, more sustainable, and more productive tomorrow, they are taking lessons from the past. Although there are many opportunities in education, it's also critical that students arrive prepared and with the appropriate attitude.

Individuals that possess creativity, the ability to think and act unconventionally, or a strong desire to become tomorrow's leaders are ideal candidates for this kind of training. I would argue that, as the consumer-industry ecosystem develops, the importance of the service has surpassed that of the product. People are found wherever there is experience, and there is a dramatic change occurring worldwide from products to experiences.

Additionally, education has a lasting value since, in situations when others are having difficulty, hospitality advances thanks to transferable skills that accumulate over time. What will the job market be like in five or ten years? Nobody knows for sure. What we do know is that some skills particularly in industries like hospitality where human interaction is the Unique selling proposition, will remain in high demand, while others will become obselete.


Shivani Arora

Shivani Arora is an enthusiastic and dedicated professional with a Master’s in Travel Tourism Management from the University of Mumbai and a Bachelor's in Hospitality Studies from Sheila Raheja Institute of Hotel Management. With experience at Thomas Cook India, Travelxp TV, Iris Representations, Sutherland Global Services, and Trident Hotels, she now excels in academia, training postgraduate and undergraduate students. Passionate about molding students into industry-ready professionals, Shivani fosters intellectual curiosity and confidence for lifelong learning.

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Budget Quote from Rohit Sethi, Co-Founder, Seclude Hotels Home Style

"While expectations were slightly muted due to the interim nature of the budget, we welcome the government's focus on Atmanirbhar's development of domestic and inbound tourism. The aviation sector via the UDAAN Scheme has consistently improved connectivity by covering 570 additional routes which is a very beneficial growth trend. Government emphasis on consistent development of infrastructure is very encouraging, with Indian carriers proactively placing orders for more than 1,300 aircraft; doubling of airports to 149 within ten years; additional 40,000 rail bogies being converted to Vande Bharat coaches; all of which will go a long way to further boost ease of connectivity for both domestic and international tourists. Providing long-term interest-free loans to promote iconic tourist centres, development of island tourism in destinations such as Lakshadweep, and spiritual tourism are unique areas of special consideration that will have a positive multiplier effect towards job creation and boost local entrepreneurship. There are significant opportunities for India’s tourism sector to be a driver towards the vision of India becoming a developed nation by 2047 by significantly improving the prospects of key social groups mentioned in the latest budget: women, poor, farmers and youth."

Rohit Sethi, Co-Founder, Seclude Hotels Home Style

Budget Reaction Quote from Mr. Davinder Juj, General Manager, Eros Hotel New Delhi

We applaud the forward-thinking measures outlined in Union Budget 2024, particularly the interest-free loans for states to enhance their tourism hubs, attract business, and create entrepreneurship and employment opportunities for locals.

The proposed port connectivity and infrastructure improvements for the island and other attractive location accessibility in the country will motivate families and young tourists to opt for domestic travel. This step will further strengthen the hospitality industry and the travel and tourism sector will grow rapidly in the country.

Overall, being an interim budget, Union Budget 2024 was balanced and I expect the recommendations made for direct and indirect taxes will empower the middle class to spend the money on leisure and travel more.”

Red Dot Representations Facilitates Streamlined Vietnam Visa Services for Bulk Bookings 

Mumbai, November 2023: Red Dot Representations, India's premier Destination Management Company (DMC), is excited to unveil an innovative Vietnam visa service specially tailored to cater to the diverse needs of travel trade partners including B2B agents, event and wedding planners, and MICE professionals, etc., regarding bulk bookings. This groundbreaking service is set to simplify the process of helping them process bulk visa requests seamlessly with reduced turn-around time, cost-effectiveness, and high efficiency. This move helps Red Dot Representations’ travel trade partners to garner more MICE, BLeisure and Wedding-related inquiries to the aspirational destination Vietnam.

To avail of the streamlined visa service, the travel trade partners will only have to provide Red Dot Representations with the travellers’ passport-size photograph against a white background without glasses; and clear scanned copies of their passport's front and back pages. Red Dot Representation will provide a hassle-free experience for bulk visa processing of their travel trade partners’ diverse clientele needs be it weddings or events in Vietnam. As part of the services, Red Dot Representations also provides the option of visa-on-arrival, which further adds flexibility and convenience to the package.

Vietnam has increasingly become a sought-after destination for Indian travellers due to its harmonious blend of seamless transfers, top-notch hospitality, a rich land of historical and contemporary attractions, a vibrant culture, diverse culinary experiences, and burgeoning opportunities in the MICE sector. The country's well-structured transportation networks, including well-connected airports and modern roadways, ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience within Vietnam.

In the words of Prabhakar Kamat, Vice-President, Red Dot Representations, "Our mission is to craft memorable travel experiences for Indian travellers. As Vietnam is poised to welcome Indian businesses for MICE and as destination weddings in Vietnam are increasingly gaining traction too, we are witnessing the demand for bulk visa services on the rise from the Indian travel market. Facilitating our travel trade partners with a simplified solution, we at Red Dot Representations have streamlined the cumbersome and time-consuming visa acquisition process with our cost-effective, hassle-free approach. With the initiative, we are sure that our travel trade partners will inspire more Indian travellers to explore the captivating beauty of Vietnam, leading to lasting memories and unforgettable adventures."

The burgeoning Vietnamese tourism industry thrives on its commitment to top-quality hospitality, offering a wide range of luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, and resorts that cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of Indian travellers. The warm and hospitable nature of the Vietnamese people ensures that tourists feel right at home. The country's rich cultural heritage is unveiled through ancient temples, historic cities, and engaging museums, providing a glimpse into its fascinating history.

Vietnam offers an array of diverse experiences that Indian travellers can savour during their visit. From the vibrant streets of Hanoi and the picturesque landscapes of Halong Bay to the serene charm of Hoi An and the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam presents a wide array of both modern and historical attractions. Travellers can explore the lush Vietnamese countryside, relax on stunning beaches, or immerse themselves in vibrant city life, making it a destination that caters to every traveller's preferences.

Vietnam's rich cultural heritage and its diverse cuisine are also a big draw for Indian tourists. Travellers can immerse themselves in the beauty of traditional Vietnamese music, dance, and art, while the culinary journey through Vietnamese street food and gourmet restaurants is a sensory delight. Moreover, Vietnam's flourishing MICE sector offers excellent opportunities for business meetings, conferences, and incentives in world-class facilities and settings.

The hassle-free bulk visa services for Vietnam underline Red Dot Representations’ steadfast commitment to making travel more accessible, efficient, and enjoyable for all stakeholders in the travel industry.


IHM Ranchi organizes interactive session themed “Coffee with GMs” at the institute premises

The Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Ranchi organized an interactive session with the industry leaders on the theme “Coffee with GMs” for the final year students of the institute. The event witnessed the presence of Mr. Hemant Mehta, General Manager, Hotel Radisson Blu, Ranchi, Mr. Amit Kaushik, General Manager, Hotel Royal Retreat, Mr. Asit Kundu, General Manager, Capital Residency, Mr. Kallol Sengupta, General Manager, Hotel Green Horizon and Mr. Brajesh Gupta, General Manager Hotel Le Lac Sarovar Ranchi.

The program was set-up through a casual interaction among the General Managers and the students focusing on the career development tips, success stories and fun- filled memories from their academic and professional journey. Decades of experience and the struggle and success stories of General Managers included focus on the personal development, self-confidence, self-presentation changing industry trends and best practices, hard work and dedication, effective management styles, conflict management, budgeting and financial management in the various roles during the long spanning career in the hospitality industry. The students were enthusiastic and energetic throughout the session and they asked various questions and queries related to personal and professional life and the secret behind their success and management styles to which all the General Managers were humble to address the gathering.

The event was moderated by Dr. Bhupesh Kumar, Principal, IHM Ranchi and all the teachers were also present during this occasion. Coffee with GM is a unique initiative by IHM Ranchi where the industry experts and budding hoteliers come together on the same platform eliminating the hesitations and boundaries of interaction through heart. The program concluded with a hi- tea wherein delicious burgers, pizza and coffee all made by the students were served to the students and guests present on this occasion.

IHCL SIGNS ITS THIRD HOTEL IN INDORE, MADHYA PRADESH

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, today announced the signing of a SeleQtions branded hotel in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The currently operational property will be rebranded SeleQtions.

Commenting on the signing, Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President - Real Estate & Development, IHCL said, “The signing of this hotel further strengthens our presence in the strategically important state of Madhya Pradesh. Indore, its financial capital lies in proximity to major industrial hubs and is home to several large IT parks. With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will have three of its brands in the city, which is in line with its commercial potential. The hotel is slated to open this fiscal after the quick conversion. We are delighted to partner with Winway Group for this project.”

The 125-keys hotel is situated in the heart of Indore’s commercial hub. Guests can enjoy a variety of global and local cuisines at the all-day dining restaurant, bar, and specialty restaurant. Recreational facilities will include a swimming pool and gym. The hotel will also offer state-of-the-art banqueting spaces spread over 6,400 square feet.

Mr. Sahil Wadhwani and Mr. Vansh Wadhwani, Partners,, Winway Group said, “We are delighted to bring the SeleQtions brand to Indore in partnership with IHCL. We believe this will transform the hospitality landscape in the city.”

Indore, on the banks of Kanh and Saraswati rivers is the most populous city in Madhya Pradesh. It has been consistently declared as India’s cleanest city. It is a major transit point for pilgrimage to Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain.

With this addition, IHCL has ten hotels across Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta and Ginger brands in Madhya Pradesh including three under development.

About Winway Group

The Winway Group has interests in Real Estate, Residential, Corporate and Hospitality Projects in Indore. Promoted by the Wadhwani family, Winway Group has completed multiple projects such as WOW Hotel, Winway Hotel, real estate developments such as Winway World Offices, The Ambiance by Winway, The Winway Centre and Heaven Homes to name a few.

Brij Hotels sign up a historic property in Dharamshala

Brij Hotels, a collection of bespoke properties offering hyperlocal experiences in the most amazing locations, has announced signing of Brij Anarya - a luxury boutique resort in Dharamshala. A 245-year-old colonial estate in the heart of Dharamshala, the resort has an envious history like none other. Originally known as ‘White Haven’, Brij Anarya is a one-of-a-kind property in Dharamshala with a rich Victorian legacy. The property has had the honor of hosting erstwhile Viceroys, British explorers, and many important dignitaries during the British Raj.

Brij Anarya, with majestic views of the snow-capped Dhauladhar range, offers a unique boutique luxury experience in the lap of Himalayas. Set amidst tall deodar and oak trees, sprawling lawns, verdant views & surrounding tea plantations, the property hosts 12 Suites and is spread over 10 acres of mountain plateau. This boutique retreat with open windows, tall chimney and green tin roofs exudes an old-world charm. Brij Anarya offers its guests a luxurious stay amidst victorian décor, with all modern comforts & amenities. In the tradition of all Brij Hotel Properties, Brij Anarya will offer immersive local experiences from the region. There are a wide range of activities on offer for engaging guests within the Resort as well as exploring the surrounding areas. The property is conveniently located at 12 km from the Gaggal airport and a stone's throw from the Dharamshala bus stop.

Speaking on this latest development, Shiv Mehan, CEO - Brij Hotels said, “We are excited to have Brij Anarya in our curated collection of highly Experiential Boutique Resorts and this marks the second location for Brij Hotels in Himachal Pradesh. It is an honor to be sharing the legacy of this esteemed heritage property with our guests. We look forward to transporting our guests to another era with the Brij Anarya when we open our doors in June and ensure they take back unique memories of Dharamshala.”

Resonating the excitement was Sahil Sharma, Owner Atman Resorts LLP. He said, “We are delighted to partner with Brij Hotels who are known to curate unique experiences for the guests and we are well on the way to expand the property into a luxury resort with increased Inventory, Dining Options, Recreation and Spa facilities coming soon.”

Soon to open, Brij Anarya is the only property in the region with a history interwoven with the tea plantations of Kangra and the historic tea trade across the Northern Provinces, the Kashgar Region of the Hindukush and across the original Silk Route. Among the honored dignitaries who have stayed here includes British explorer Robert Barkley Shaw, administrators Sir Thomas Douglas Forsyth and Sir Donald Friel McLeod, highly regarded aristocrats of their time.

Brij Anarya is scheduled for launch in June 2023 and will join the current portfolio of 7 Brij properties in India across Uttar Pradesh (Varanasi), Rajasthan (Kukas, Pali, Jawai, Bikaner and Jaipur), Himachal Pradesh (Dalhousie). Brij Atmanya - a boutique property located in Bhowali - Nainital (Uttarakhand) is also scheduled for launch in Q2 2023. Brij is also adding multiple destinations to its portfolio with hotels in Bandhavgarh, Goa and Pokhara (Nepal) under development.

Jolyon Bulley to become Americas CEO following Elie Maalouf’s appointment to Group CEO

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] today announces that Jolyon Bulley will succeed Elie Maalouf as Americas CEO. Jolyon is currently IHG’s Chief Executive Officer for the Greater China region, and also the Group’s Transformation Lead for Luxury & Lifestyle. The appointment follows the announcement on 5 May that Elie will become IHG’s Group Chief Executive Officer on 1 July following Keith Barr’s decision to step down to return with his family to the US.

Jolyon has been CEO for Greater China since 2018 and is a member of IHG’s Executive Committee. He was previously Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Americas region from 2014 to 2017. He will take up his new position on 1 July and will be returning to his family home in Atlanta in the US where he will be based.

A career hotelier, Jolyon has held a number of significant roles at IHG since he joined the business in 2001. As CEO for Greater China, he has been responsible for accelerating the growth and driving the profitability of IHG’s second-largest market. Prior to that, as COO for the Americas, Jolyon led the region’s operations for franchised and managed hotels, strengthening owner relationships and hotel operating performance. This led on from Jolyon holding the same role as COO for Greater China, where he similarly oversaw the region’s hotel portfolio and brand performance, new hotel openings and owner relations.

As IHG concludes succession planning for Jolyon’s responsibilities in Greater China, Daniel Aylmer, Managing Director for Greater China, will report into Elie and continue his responsibilities in China. Transition planning is underway for Jolyon’s other commitments.

Keith Barr, outgoing Group CEO, commented: “Jolyon has made an enormous contribution to the success of IHG over his more than two decades in the business, including holding senior roles in our two biggest markets. His appointment as Americas CEO demonstrates IHG’s commitment to invest in our leaders’ development potential, our robust succession planning and a continuation of our existing growth strategy for the Americas region.”

Elie Maalouf, outgoing Americas CEO and Group CEO Designate, said: “Jolyon is returning to the Americas business where he has a proven track record of supporting the growth of IHG’s largest region. When he was COO he redesigned and strengthened how we work with and deliver for our hotel owners. Over the last five years, Jolyon has guided Greater China through the pandemic and into the recovery, further strengthened our owner relationships and continued to grow the business at pace. I am pleased to be able to move into the Group CEO role knowing that Jolyon will further strengthen the Americas leadership team.”

Jolyon Bulley, outgoing Greater China CEO and Americas CEO Designate, added: “I am proud to have the opportunity to lead our Americas business alongside our many talented colleagues and in partnership with our hotel owners. I have worked in the hospitality industry my entire career and I’m looking forward to building on Elie’s legacy in the region, remaining focused on capitalising on strong owner and guest demand for our amazing brands and our attractive enterprise platform.”

See Mumbai like Gigi Hadid, Zendaya, and Tom Holland

See Mumbai like Gigi Hadid, Zendaya, and Tom Holland

The trio explored the city's famous landmarks and culture, and even enjoyed a yacht tour around the Mumbai coastline.

Tom and Zendaya went on the ‘Strange stories of Mumbai and Kolis, the original inhabitants’ tour. Aditya Pai, Tour Leader, No Footprints, said, “Zendaya is a sweet and engaging person, knowledgeable and friendly. Tom is soft spoken, warm, with a pleasant personality. It was his first time in India and he was very excited about the culture and traditions. We hosted them on a yacht to showcase Mumbai in a different light. When we started off, the conversation involved the history of Mumbai and the Kolis, the original inhabitants. Both Zendaya and Tom were keen to learn about how local cultures thrive and they seemed to enjoy the splashes of humour in the narration.”

Co-founder, Harshvardhan Tanwar took supermodel Gigi Hadid and her team on a tour of Mumbai, called ‘Jio Mumbai city tour’. It included stops at the iconic Gateway of India, Kala Ghoda, the University, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Vastu Sangralaya. The tour also had insights into the American connection and its historic significance to Mumbai. The tour ended on the Victoria Terminus with the team sipping on refreshing coconut water while taking in the breathtaking view of the magnificent train station.

They also did tours for other famous personalities, including Dior’s Maria Grazia Chiuri, Chanakya’s Karishma Swali, Emma Chamberlain, and Katy Graham. Each tour was unique and catered to the guest’s interests, making for a truly personalised experience.

No Footprints, the boutique travel experience company offers a range of tours for those who want to experience Mumbai like the Hollywood stars do. The 'Jio (live) Mumbai city tour' covers some of the city's most famous landmarks, including the Gateway of India, Crawford Market, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. If you're a foodie, you can take the 'Mumbai food walk,' which takes you through the city's famous street food markets and lets you sample some of Mumbai's best snacks and sweets. For those who want to explore the city's lesser-known areas, there is the 'Offbeat Mumbai tour.' This tour takes you through some of Mumbai's hidden gems, including the Portuguese heritage of Bandra, the graffiti art of Bandra and Mahim, and the old fishing village of Versova.

There is also a customized tour option for those who want to explore Mumbai at their own pace. You can choose your own itinerary, and the team will plan your tour around your interests and preferences.

"We're thrilled to offer our guests a chance to experience Mumbai like the Hollywood stars do," said Eesha Singh, Co-founder, No Footprints. "We believe that travel should be personal, and our tours are designed to help you discover Mumbai in your own unique way. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or just someone who loves to explore new places, we have a tour that's perfect for you."

Hilton Goa Resort Celebrates Team Member Appreciation Week

Hilton Goa Resort Celebrates Team Member Appreciation Week

Goa, July 2022: A picturesque retreat amid Goa's coastal landscape, Hilton Resort Goa, celebrated their ‘Team Member Appreciation Week’ (TMAW) recently with a spectacular gala night to remember. Film Actor, Mouni Roy and, Prime Show Anchor at CNN News18, Anand Narasimhan graced the event with their presence and addressed the Team Members of Hilton Goa Resort. The hotel staff and management came together to acknowledge and celebrate each other’s hard work and dedication, through a series of fun-filled activities.

Harsha Vallary, HR Manager, Hilton Goa Resort said, “Our people are at the heart of our success and the Team Member Appreciation Week is only a small way of expressing gratitude towards their exceptional service throughout the year while nurturing team spirit and leadership.”

Over the TMAW week, several exciting activities including a treasure hunt, singing contest, fashion show and other games were planned for employees, creating a culture of appreciation across the hotel and its team members. A grand cake cutting event with surprise gifts for all the team members, along with decadent lunches and dinners were organised throughout the week.

“We aim to develop a sense of belonging within the team and ensure that every member feels valued and appreciated for their commitment and efforts throughout the year. A cohesive team effort by all our employees is a significant contributor towards exceeding guest expectations and delivering exceptional service consistently,” asserts Amandeep Grover, General Manager, Hilton Goa Resort. 

On the gala night, employees entertained the crowd while showcasing their talent on stage and bonding with each other. The team spent some relaxing quality time and discussed ideas and plans to appreciate employees' hard work throughout the year.

Meet The FoodSuperstars 2022 Chef Hussain Shahzad

Chef Hussain returned to India after interesting stints abroad that included a gig as personal chef to Roger Federer and a position in New York’s Eleven Madison Park.

He credits chef Daniel Humm for teaching him how to cook and his mentor the late chef Floyd Cardoz for teaching him how to be a chef. Now in charge of two of Mumbai’s top restaurants

The Bombay Canteen and O Pedro Mumbai, Shahzad is on a mission to make Indian cuisine fun. Meet The FoodSuperstars is a limited series by Culinary Culture that takes you into the minds of India's top chefs as they share their stories, their fondest memories and their deepest secrets.

Chapter 1 features chefs: Manish Mehrotra, Naren Thimmaiah, Manisha Bhasin, Himanshu Saini, Hussain Shahzad, Pooja Dhingra, Saurabh Udinia, Ritu Dalmia, Dane Fernandes, Prateek Sadhu, Nooresha Kably, Regi Mathew, Asma Khan & Manu Chandra FoodSuperstars, India's Top 30 Chefs presented by Campo Viejo is India's first and only platform conceptualized to honor and celebrate India's greatest chefs.

#FoodSuperstars #CulinaryCulture #IndianChefs #GourmetFood #CampoViejo #HussainShahzad

UK celebrity chef Alan Coxon and The Queen’s Chef Mark Flanagon praise pastrychef Vivek Chauhan of Le Meridien, Delhi for his Easter buffet

New Delhi, April 2022: If Chef Vivek Chauhan of Le Meridien, New Delhi has a superpower, it's his ability to combine artistic creativity in the pastry kitchen with down-to-earth tips that help you bake with confidence. That's why we're turning to him for his irresistible Easter recipes, which got extensively praised by the renowned UK chefs - Alan Coxon, Mark Flanagon, Alan Heulin, etc.
This year, Chef Vivek Easter desserts range included Chocolate Easter Bunny, Bunny Ear Easter Cupcakes, timeless classic hot Cross Buns, Lemon blueberry posset, and Carrot Cake combined with a fresh layer of delicate flavors. The main show stopper was the almondy Easter Simnel cake and mouth-watering Easter Bunnies, to sparkle the festivities and represent Christian tradition.
These heavenly sweet delicacies, couldn’t stop Chef Alan Coxon, a multi-award-winning TV Chef/ Presenter, and the British Ambassador for food and tourism by praising. He said, "Congrats on the Easter Display to you and to your exceptionally skilled group in India, these culinary creations are extremely delightful”.

Chef Mark Flangan, known to be the personal chef of The Queen and head chef of the Royal Household also said, “ Superb workaround eggs and rabbits and you have a very talented team”.

Chef Alan Heulin, ex-Chairman Association of Pastry Chefs United Kingdom said, “Keep up the good work, you'll make a great ambassador for pastry.” Chef Paul Beard, Member of the Association of Pastry Chefs said, “great to see you are still producing those incredible vivid products, well done to you and your team. 

On these above heart-satisfying reactions, Chef Vivek said, ''I have learned easter recipes during my early stint in London, the UK with One Aldwych, The Lancaster and The Westbury Mayfair while working with the master gourmet experts  and finally, getting significant remarks from them means the world to me."

Here’s the Simnel Cake Recipe:

Ingredients

Almond Paste:

Castor Sugar - 375 gm

Ground Almonds-375 gm

Egg   - 120 gm 

Almond Essence- 1 tsp



Cake:

Butter – 350 gm

Demerara Sugar – 325 gm

Eggs -6 no.

Refined Flour-350 gm

Salt- 1 tsp

Mixed Peel – 105 gm

Lemon Zest- 1 no.



Method:

For Almond Paste

  1. Mix Castor Sugar & Ground Almonds. Add Egg and knead to make a paste.

 For Cake

  1. Cream Butter & Castor Sugar together until pale and fluffy 

  2. Gradually pour eggs slowly until well incorporated 

  3. Sift in flour, salt, and mixed spice.

  4. Finally, add mixed fruit peel into the above mix.

  5. Put half the mixture into already lined rings. Smooth the top and cover with the circle of almond paste. Add the rest of the cake mixture and smooth the top leaving a slight dip in the center to allow for the cake to rise.. Test by inserting a knife in the middle – if it comes out clean, it is ready. Once baked, remove from the oven and set aside to cool on a wire rack.

  6. Brush with the apricot jam on top of the cooled cake. Divide the remainder of the almond paste in half. Roll out a circle to cover the top of the cake with one half and form small balls with the other half. Place the circle of paste on the cake and set the balls around the edge. Brush the cake topping with a little beaten egg.

  7. Glaze with a blow torch.





About Chef Vivek:

A patissier and chocolatier, Chef Vivek Chauhan is a highly accoladed Patisserie Chef with an illustrious experience of 22 years, currently associated with Le Meridien Hotel, New Delhi. An IHM, Gwalior graduate in Hotel Management, Chef Vivek's passion to learn beyond stereotypical creations and reinventions has allowed him to work with Michelin Star Chefs Allyn Williams and Chef Eric Chavot & others of International Reputees. His culinary experience includes his incredible years at various prestigious properties - Taj Mahal Hotel, One Aldwych, London, The Lancaster London, the Hilton London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5, The Westbury Mayfair, London, and The Imperial, New Delhi. Chef Vivek is a recipient of multiple honors and awards; most notable among them is the most recent‘ Pastry Chef of the Year 2018' conferred upon by ICF. He has also hosted opulent dinners for the Association of Pastry Chefs and Craft Guild of Chefs in the UK.