News | Emirates to offer complimentary hotel stay to transit passengers through renewed Dubai Connect plan

Those who qualify for Dubai Connect but are unable to leave the airport will be given access to the Emirates Dubai Connect airport lounge.

Emirates has relaunched its Dubai Connect offer which gives customers transiting through its hub a complimentary hotel stay in Dubai. The travelers, including those from India, can avail of this service if their transit time exceeds 10 hours and by booking it at least 24 hours before the incoming flight to Dubai. The offer is available to customers booking in all classes (first-class, business, and economy) with a transit time between 10 and 24 hours.

With Dubai Connect, Emirates passengers will receive a complimentary night’s stay in a 4 or 5-star hotel, ground transfers to and from the airport, meals at the hotel as well as a UAE visa on arrival where required (subject to UAE Immigration approval). Those who qualify for Dubai Connect but are unable to leave the airport will be given access to the Emirates Dubai Connect airport lounge.

How to book Dubai connect service

• Complimentary Dubai Connect service can be booked as long as there are no better connection times to choose from for your itinerary.

• To book a Dubai Connect service, the connecting flight on the itinerary must be the best available connection. This means that the stopover time in Dubai between your two flights must be the shortest one available.

• Dubai Connect service can be added to the itinerary during online flight booking. If booked through a travel agent, passengers can check with them if they are entitled to the service.

• Keeping all the entry and regulatory documents required by the destination’s travel guidelines such as valid negative Covid‑19 tests at all stages of the journey is necessary.

Source

News | Rajasthan govt to launch mobile application for tourists on World Tourism Day

The application will initially be available on Google Playstore while its iOS version is also under development and will be launched in a few weeks.

To facilitate tourists visiting Rajasthan, the state government will launch a mobile application on World Tourism Day on September 27, an official said on Wednesday. The application will initially be available on the Google play store while its iOS version is also under development and will be launched in a few weeks.

"All information regarding tourist spots, modes of transport and other services will be available through the application... Users will be able to know if the local service provider is registered with the department," Nishant Jain, Director of Tourism Department said in a statement.

While there are several websites providing information regarding tourism in Rajasthan, the official application will give reliable and real-time information, he said. Schemes and promotional activities of the department will be promoted through the application, Jain said.

Mc Donalds | Sustainable food packaging for the brand from recyclable or compostable materials

McDonald's says nearly all its paper packaging from sustainable fiberMany restaurant chains are working to reduce environmental harm from packaging, including using more recyclable or compostable materials and letting customers reuse cups or bowls.

NEW YORK: McDonald's Corp said on Thursday it has nearly achieved its goal of sourcing all of its paper food packaging in restaurants from the recycled or sustainable fiber. The Chicago-based global burger chain said in its annual sustainability report that in 2020 99.6% of the paper bags, food wrappers, napkins, cup carriers and other fiber-based materials it used to package meals for customers came from recycled or certified sustainable fiber sources, up from 92% in 2019.

Many restaurant chains are working to reduce environmental harm from packaging, including using more recyclable or compostable materials and letting customers reuse cups or bowls.

An Adweek-Harris Poll survey of U.S. adults in April about single-use fast-food packaging found that 62% of respondents said they would think more highly of a brand that switched to recyclable packaging, and 81% were concerned about litter and pollution from fast-food restaurants.

Because McDonald's has more than 39,000 restaurants globally, small changes can ripple into other companies and industries.

McDonald's has set a larger goal for all of its customer packagings to come from renewable, recycled, or certified sources by 2025. Currently, 80% of its packaging comes from such sources. It is also using paper straws and wooden cutlery in multiple markets, it said, and is exploring fiber lids and reusable cups.

Source

The Employee Experience

We loved this from Four Seasons. Enjoy!

If there is anything you do for your employees, do write in to editor@hospemag.me and we would love to feature it.

BEST PRACTICES | Avani Hotels in Thailand Unveil Hybrid Meetings Solutions

Avani Hotels in Thailand Unveil Hybrid Meetings Solutions

As the world is constantly evolving and facing a new normal, we have upgraded our Meetings and Events services at our hotels in Thailand with enhanced Hybrid Meetings solutions.

Through our solutions, companies will reach a greater audience from multiple destinations within Thailand, combining in-person and virtual attendees in their events. This allows meeting professionals to create new memorable hybrid meetings and conferences with seamless technologies guaranteeing the safety of attendees in our hotels and the same event quality to your virtual guests.

INITIATIVE | ibis hotels have joined hands with The Robin Hood Army

ibis hotels along with The Robin Hood Army is extending their support to the community by providing meals to the less privileged.

Empathy is the need of the hour: Sylvain Laroche

ibis hotels have joined hands with The Robin Hood Army to extend their support to the community by providing meals to the less privileged. Through this initiative, ibis aims to deliver over 5000 meals every month across Delhi, Gurgaon, Jaipur, Nashik, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.

“13 hotels from the ibis network have partnered with the local Robin Hood Army representatives to deliver cooked wholesome nutritious meals packed in biodegradable material to the needy. These meals are specially cooked for this initiative,” Sylvain Laroche, Director of Operations, ibis & ibis Styles, India informed ET HospitalityWorld.

In many cities ibis employees are delivering these meals themselves as some of the Robin Hood Army representatives were affected by Covid-19. This gave the employees an opportunity to go that extra mile.

“These are exceptionally challenging times, but we feel confident that as a community, we can get through this together,” said Laroche adding that as we recover from the deadly second wave of the pandemic, it is important to support each other and the community. “Empathy is the need of the hour. As an organization that prioritizes the safety and wellbeing of its guests and employees, we are doing everything we can to support those who need us,” he said.

The Robin Hood Army is zero funds, volunteer-based organization that has thousands of young professionals and citizens who have taken to the streets in their free time to fight global hunger, the team collects surplus food from restaurants and distributes it to the less fortunate.

“It makes me very proud to see our team members who continue to push their limits every day and have gone out of their way to help those who need us the most at this time,” Laroche mentioned.

In some cities, the ibis hotel teams are also doing their bit by distributing meals to frontline workers, traffic police who are working tirelessly round the clock. Few hotels have also associated with local NGOs to extend support to Covid-19 patients, nursing homes, and the needy.

Source

HICC managed by Accor was chosen as one of their venues by Apollo Hospitals for the largest vaccination drive held in India

Brilliant Father's Day Initiative: Oberoi Grand, Kolkata

The Oberoi Grand Kolkata Home delivery packaging now has a classic look

Mc Donalds | McDonald’s India - North and East supports country’s vaccination drive, encourages its customers to get vaccinated

Offers special deals to customers who get themselves vaccinated

As part of its ongoing efforts supporting the country’s vaccination drive, McDonald’s India – North and East has launched the ‘We Care’ initiative aimed at encouraging its customers to join the fight against COVID-19 and get themselves vaccinated. 

The initiative launched through McDonald’s mobile app - North and East India will offer special deals to McDonald’s customers post their vaccination. Customers can avail of the limited time* offer by uploading their vaccination certificate# on McDonald’s mobile app under the ‘Got Vaccinated’ tab, along with basic details. Post this they will receive a unique code via SMS that can be redeemed through Getmcdonalds.com** and opt for contactless delivery or contactless takeaway/in-store (wherever allowed by the local authorities). 

As a brand with mass appeal, McDonald’s continues to build on its efforts towards the safety and wellness of its people, customers, and communities at large. Last month, McDonald’s started employee vaccination covering more than 5,000 employees in its corporate office and restaurants across 11 states in North and East India.

“Vaccination is an important step in our country’s fight against the pandemic, one that requires all of us to work together and do our part, including encouraging others to get vaccinated. As a brand with a deep connection with people, we are glad to contribute towards the greater cause in our unique way for the people we serve”, said, Rajeev Ranjan, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Connaught Plaza Restaurants, which operates McDonald’s restaurants in North and East India.

McDonald’s Safety 
As McDonald’s proactively monitors the impact of the COVID-19 situation, it is continuously making changes to enhance the processes and restaurant operations with the safety of the employees, customers, and the communities on top priority. 

Since the onset of COVID-19, McDonald’s has introduced nearly 50-plus process changes in its restaurant operations under its global Safety+ program. These measures include, but not limited to, mandatory daily wellness and temperature checks for everyone (crew, customers, and delivery partners), compulsory facemasks for everyone, enhanced focus on hand hygiene with frequent handwashing and gloves for the crew. Hand sanitizers are available at all restaurants all the time for everyone to use. 

Front counters and Drive-Thrus have been fitted with protective screens. Contactless ordering, payment, and contactless delivery options are available for customers to minimize human contact. All restaurants have visual cues on furniture and floor to help customers and employees maintain adequate physical distance from each other and follow Covid-protocols. Customers will also notice foot-operated taps in the restrooms. Furthermore, the sanitation protocol has been further strengthened by introducing broad-spectrum hospital-grade sanitizers to disinfect all frequently touched points/surfaces in the restaurants.

With Food safety and quality always at the core, all McDonald’s products go through comprehensive quality checks, from farm to table, so that the customers can enjoy safe and delicious food every time they choose McDonald’s. 

With these and many more safety measures, McDonald’s is ensuring that every part of the McDonald’s experience is safe for its customers and employees. 

*The unique code can be redeemed by customers anytime during 30 days of receiving the code, as per their convenience.

**Offer not available on Swiggy or Zomato.

# Neither the company nor any affiliate of the company, will retain any sensitive information contained in the vaccine certificate. The company will irretrievably delete all vaccine certificate data by midnight everyday.

About McDonald’s India - North and East: McDonald’s restaurants in North and East of India are operated by Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt. Ltd. McDonald’s is committed to delivering the highest quality restaurant experience to its customers in India and serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients sourced locally. McDonald’s serves millions of customers annually at its 150 restaurants across North and East of India and provides direct employment to more than 5,000 people. With a customer-centric approach, McDonald’s operates through a variety of formats and brand extensions including standalone restaurants, Drive-thru’s, 24/7 restaurants, McDelivery for customer convenience and experience.

INITIATIVE | EESL signs MoU with Lemon Tree Hotels to implement energy efficiency measures

EESL’s expertise will help Lemon Tree Hotels realize its stated intention of delivering a healthy triple bottom line – planet, people, and profit – through its sustainability initiatives

As a part of its ongoing efforts to create an energy-efficient economy, Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture under the administration of the Ministry of Power, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lemon Tree Hotels Limited for implementing energy efficiency and energy conservation measures at a selected number of the latter’s properties in India.

During the three-year engagement, both companies will work together to identify areas to improve energy efficiency and leverage the expertise of EESL and its subsidiary companies Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) and EPSL Trigeneration Private Limited, as the need maybe, in the areas of electric vehicles (EVs) and EV charging; air conditioning; solar rooftop installations; energy-efficient pumps and motors; indoor and outdoor lighting; and energy and water audits.

Sharing views on this engagement, Saurabh Kumar, Executive Vice Chairperson (EVC), EESL, said, “Energy efficiency is a vital, indispensable part of our vision for a sustainable future. We have a roadmap for getting there, and we need more and more willing partners from across industries to keep moving the needle on progress. Lemon Tree Hotels is one of the largest hotel chains in India, and we hope that the success we will achieve through our projects will encourage many more players to explore avenues for strengthening their energy efficiency and conservation initiatives.”

Patu Keswani, Chairman & Managing Director, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, “We are committed to our ESG focus at Lemon Tree. Over the years, we have undertaken several initiatives to reduce energy consumption, and we have implemented a number of environmentally friendly practices. For example, increasing the contribution of RE to our total energy consumption. Our partnership with EESL will enable us to enhance the impact of these measures and find ways to further reduce our carbon footprint, in order to move closer to our goal of being carbon neutral.”

EESL’s expertise will help Lemon Tree Hotels realize its stated intention of delivering a healthy triple bottom line – planet, people, and profit – through its sustainability initiatives. The projects implemented through this partnership will contribute to improving the overall energy efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint of the hotel company.

Source

INITIATIVE | Eco friendly initiatives by IHCL

From phasing out single-use plastic, reduction in carbon footprint, water conservation and utilization of renewable sources of energy to extensive community engagement, IHCL continues to drive responsible tourism at every step

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), continues to reinforce its commitment towards adopting and strengthening its sustainable business practices. From phasing out single-use plastic, reduction in carbon footprint, water conservation, and utilization of renewable sources of energy to extensive community engagement, IHCL will continue to drive responsible tourism at every step.
The company has generated significant savings since 2008 by:

• Reducing water consumption by approximately 3,000,000 kilolitres

• Reducing greenhouse emissions including approximately 232,000,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e)

• Saving approximately 1,202,000,000 megajoules of energy

• Reducing waste sent to landfill by 17,000 cubic meters

• SeleQtions partners with BLive – India’s first EV vehicle tourism platform

• IHCL’s brand SeleQtions is a collection of named and distinctive properties. The vision for the brand is to celebrate individuality, by offering unique experiences through landmark hotels that have their own legacy and charm. In line with this vision and commitment to sustainable tourism, SeleQtions has tied up with BLive, India’s First Electric Vehicle Tourism platform to provide premium green Ebike tours at all SeleQtions hotels. Guests can explore each destination with specially curated tours that give an immersive experience of the local culture while reducing carbon emissions.

IHCL partners with Tata Power
IHCL joins hands with Tata Power for the supply of solar energy for its hotels in Mumbai as a part of a strategy to focus on sustainable and cost-efficient business practices while leveraging group-wide synergies and competencies. Currently, 27 hotels are powered by renewable energy as part of this initiative with Tata Power thereby providing energy from Green Source. IHCL hotels in Mumbai, namely The Taj Mahal Palace, Taj Lands End and Taj Wellington Mews are expected to get approximately 60% energy from green sources and reduce nearly 22.9 million kg of carbon dioxide emissions on an annual basis.

A milestone achievement of 47 of IHCL hotels achieving EarthCheck Platinum Certification, representing 11 continuous years of social and environmental impact by ensuring sustainable tourism management practices. With this, a total of 78 EarthCheck certified IHCL hotels have generated significant savings since 2008.

Phasing out single-use plastics and introducing bottling plants
IHCL has strengthened its endeavor of phasing out single-use plastics from across its hotels, in addition to introducing bottling plants that will replace all plastic water bottles with reusable glass bottles at 15 hotels across the globe, resulting in eliminating 0.2 million kilograms of plastic. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans, located at Radhanagar beach - voted as one of the world-class beaches in Asia - has set up an onsite bottling plant eliminating the use of plastic bottles, a waste disposal system that converts wet waste to gas and compost and a sanitation treatment plant to limit its carbon footprint.

Plastic carry bags have been replaced with paper carry bags, while plastic garbage bags and plastic wet umbrella bags have been replaced with oxo-biodegradable bags. All the plastic waste generated by the hotels is sent for recycling through Pollution Control Board-authorised scrap traders. The Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in the Andaman Islands, IHCL's first ‘Zero Single-Use Plastic Hotel’.

Green Tourism
IHCL has been promoting green tourism with Taj Safaris by offering immersive experiences to travelers while enabling livelihoods for neighboring communities with historic ties to forests and bringing in tourism to remote locations, thus enriching tribes/communities who reside there, while creating alternative livelihoods to hunting.

Source

Event | ITC HOTELS LAUNCH FEEL GOOD – Vocal for Local MENU ON WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY

Combo Menu

Delicacies made with local, seasonal produce using traditional immunity boosting ingredients.

Paying a tribute to nature’s bounty this World Environment Day, ITC Hotels has launched an innovative and mindfully curated Feel-Good Menu focussed on responsible sourcing and rich in goodness. Designed to highlight the Vocal for Local initiative, it offers flavourful recipes that have been caringly selected, mindfully prepared, it further enhances ITC Hotels Responsible Luxury philosophy and pledges to strengthen local produce and “Made In India” artisanal products. Feel Good supports local farmers, and producers to reduce environmental impact and help minimize carbon footprint.

The new Feel-Good Menu available on Gourmet Couch is a natural progression for ITC Hotels that abide by its decade-strong philosophy of ‘Responsible Luxury’. ITC Hotels have pioneered several cuisine experiences in the industry. The commitment to local and seasonal ingredients has continued for decades and found more relevance in the circumstances today. 

From the healthy grains and flaxseeds, amaranth and chia muffins, and croissants, to integrating the ancient goodness much deeper, the Feel Good menu lays emphasis on the ancient practice of slow cooking using local and seasonal ingredients. Slowly but steadily guests are realizing that immunity must be a way of life and hence, the awareness to incorporate well-being ingredients in their diets. The Feel-Good menu is healthy, nutritious, and packed with flavors. The Chefs at ITC Hotels have strived to amalgamate the goodness of the ingredients in the main dish making it wholesome and tasty.  

Manisha Bhasin, Corporate Executive Chef, ITC Hotels said, “The Feel Good Menu focusses on authenticity, responsible sourcing, health ingredients, and craftsmanship. The dishes are made with forgotten grains and superfoods using age-old cooking methods in keeping with ITC Hotels ethos of Responsible Luxury. The Feel Good menu offers A la Carte Options as well as Combo meals”

Some of the ingredients used are fresh press mustard oil — rich in monounsaturated and omega 3 fatty acids, jackfruit — known for its antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities, raw turmeric, cardamom, leaves of the drumstick tree, sorghum, basil, barley, gooseberry, and mangoes, to name a few. These are rich in a variety of vitamins, magnesium, iron, act as antioxidants and help improve metabolism. 

Immunity boosting preparations like Kachchi haldi ka pulao, mulathi ki
phirni, murgh moringa made with the goodness of drumstick leaf, amla ki launji
made with Indian Gooseberries which are immunity boosting find a place in
the Feel-Good menu. The menu features the use of freshest of spice by ensuring these are hand pounded to retain the essential oils. The guests at ITC Hotels can be assured of a culinary experience that not only makes them feel good but also helps mark a lower carbon footprint. 

Guests can place their orders on Zomato, Swiggy, and EazyDiner between 11.30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6.30 p.m. to 11.30 p.m. daily. The Feel Good menu may also be ordered via Gourmet Couch on the ITC Hotels F&B App, the takeaway from the hotels, or direct delivery by the hotels. Strict safety and sanitation “WeAssure” protocol is followed at every point to ensure safe, low contact, and careful food delivery. The Packaging has been thoughtfully done and put together after thorough research on temperature, distance traveled, mode of transport, consumption techniques, re-heating norms, and more. The food is packed in environment-friendly corrugated paper boxes.

ITC Hotels’ Feel-Good Menu will be available in 8 cities pan India and 12 hotels including - ITC Maurya (New Delhi), WelcomHotel Sheraton (New Delhi), ITC Maratha (Mumbai), ITC Grand Central (Mumbai), ITC Royal Bengal, and ITC Sonar (Kolkata), ITC Kohenur (Hyderabad), ITC Kakatiya (Hyderabad). ITC Gardenia (Bengaluru), ITC Windsor (Bengaluru), ITC Grand Chola (Chennai), ITC Rajputana (Jaipur), and ITC Mughal (Agra).

Check out their A la carte and Combo Menu:

About ITC Hotels 

ITC Hotels is the largest chain of hotels in the World, which has a maximum number of LEED Platinum Certified Properties (As of June 2020, as per USGBC). Continuing with its Planet Positive Promise, ITC Hotels launched Sunya Aqua or zero kilometer water in glass bottles across the chain over a decade back and have taken this lead further and pioneered the mitigation of single-use plastic from its operations pan India.

NEWS | Ascott Is World’s First Hospitality Company To Offer Global Telehealth, Telecounselling And Travel Security Advisory To Guests

Collaborates with International SOS as part of the enhanced ‘Ascott Cares’ commitment to improve guests’ overall wellness and safety 

CapitaLand’s wholly owned lodging business unit, The Ascott Limited  (Ascott), is the first hospitality company in the world to offer its guests global access to a  comprehensive suite of telehealth, telecounselling and travel security advisory services. In a global partnership with leading health and security services company International SOS, Ascott  will provide these complimentary services as part of its enhanced ‘Ascott Cares’ commitment to  improve the overall wellness and safety of its guests. Starting 1 June 2021, the services are 

available to Ascott’s guests across nearly 200 properties in 86 cities and 27 countries. These  include guests at Ascott’s two operational properties in India - Somerset Greenways Chennai  that comprises of 187 units, and Citadines OMR Chennai with 269 units. 

Ascott’s guests who require telehealth assistance or Tele counselling can call the property’s front  desk from their apartments, to be connected to International SOS’ Assistance Centres. Ascott’s guests will be able to speak directly with International SOS’ health experts at any of its 27 Assistance Centres across the world. The Assistance Centres operate 24 hours, seven days a week  and provide assistance in 99 languages and dialects. Depending on the guest’s medical condition,  International SOS’ health experts will provide medical advice or may refer the guest for  teleconsultation, in-person consultation or telecounselling with their global network of over  90,000 accredited medical service providers, including clinics and hospitals. For more  information on telehealth, telecounselling and travel security advisory services. please see  Annex A. 

International SOS will also provide travel security advisory and assistance to Ascott’s guests to  better prepare them for new environments. This includes advice on security matters including  the choice of safe ground transportation, as well as verification and updates on in-country incidents, such as street protests, natural disasters, travel restrictions and security threats. With  International SOS’ assistance, Ascott can advise its guests on the latest developments, implement in-property security protocols and safeguards, or work with International SOS to arrange travel security solutions to further assist its guests.  

Mr Kevin Goh, CapitaLand’s Chief Executive Officer for Lodging and Ascott’s Chief Executive  Officer, said: “Ascott’s global partnership with International SOS further elevates our standard  of care and hospitality. As the world’s first hospitality company to provide global access to  telehealth, telecounselling and travel security advisory services for our guests, our guests can  have greater peace of mind that they are able to receive on-demand quality care from medical  and security experts, and feel safe when they stay with us. These value-added services as part of 

“we define global living”

Ascott International Management (India) Private Limited (CIN: U45204TN2006PTC061040) 

94, Sathyadev Avenue, MRC Nagar 

Chennai 600 028 India 

t (91-44) 7100 0001  

www.the-ascott.com 

our enhanced ‘Ascott Cares’ commitment are particularly crucial amid the global COVID-19  pandemic. With the need for social distancing and uncertainties from travel restrictions, our  guests are able to have immediate access to these services from the comfort of their apartment.”  

Mr Goh added: “In addition to stringent hygiene and cleanliness practices, Ascott has also adopted innovations such as contactless services, facial recognition technologies and autonomous robotics to improve our guests’ experience and safety. Our enhanced ‘Ascott Cares’  commitment, which goes beyond caring for our guests, is our distinct competitive advantage. It  shows the greater value Ascott can deliver to our property owners and the assurance we give our  corporate clients who want to know that their employees are well taken care of when they stay  with Ascott.” 

Mr. Vincent Miccolis, Ascott’s Regional General Manager for the Middle East, Africa, Turkey, and  India, added: “At Ascott, the safety and well-being of our guests and staff have always been, and will continue to be paramount to us. From the eve of this global pandemic and throughout the  2020 lockdown, up until today when India struggles with the second wave of COVID19, our properties in the country have remained operational, offering our guests a safe haven they can call ‘home’, consequently uplifting their stay confidence. The new partnership with International  SOS will further empower our ability to back up our guests with access to information and support, especially in these critical times. With 24/7 Assistance Centres via our Front Desk team,  our guests will be able to receive timely advice on medical and health issues, hospitalization  assistance, and assistance for medical evacuation or repatriation.” 

Dr Pascal Rey-Herme, Co-Founder, Group Medical Director of International SOS said: “This collaboration is a world-first in the hospitality industry, and also marks an important step towards recovery for the sector. Working closely with the Ascott team, we want to reassure guests that their safety and well-being is a top priority, with robust, 24/7 global assistance for all travelers – whenever and wherever they are in the world. As the global environment continues to evolve,  we will work with Ascott to adjust and adapt to best practices in managing their guests’ health  and safety concerns.” 

Enhances ‘Ascott Cares’ with a commitment to wellness, cleanliness and sustainability In response to the global fight against COVID-19, Ascott unveiled ‘Ascott Cares’ in May 2020,  assuring guests and staff of its stringent cleanliness and hygiene standards as well as safe distancing measures to ensure their health and safety. The enhanced ‘Ascott Cares’ covers seven  areas: 

1. Our Staff 2. Wellness & Security 3. Social Distancing 4. Hygiene & Cleanliness 5. Contactless & Paperless 6. Our Vendors 7. Go Green 

The comprehensive protocols of ‘Ascott Cares’ are in compliance with the World Health  Organization’s standards and local regulations and have been rolled out to Ascott properties 

“we define global living”

Ascott International Management (India) Private Limited (CIN: U45204TN2006PTC061040) 

94, Sathyadev Avenue, MRC Nagar 

Chennai 600 028 India 

t (91-44) 7100 0001  

www.the-ascott.com 

globally. In July 2020, Ascott reinforced its measures with a partnership with Bureau Veritas to provide independent audits and certification for the hygiene and safety standards of Ascott properties worldwide. 

About The Ascott Limited  

The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is a Singapore company that has grown to be one of the leading international lodging owner-operators. Ascott’s portfolio spans more than 190 cities across over  30 countries in Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the USA. 

Ascott has more than 70,000 operating units and over 50,000 units under development, making a total of more than 120,000 units in about 770 properties. 

The company’s serviced apartment, coliving, and hotel brands include Ascott The Residence, The  Crest Collection, Somerset, Quest, Citadines, by, Préférence, Vertu, Harris, Citadines Connect,  Fox, Yello, Fox Lite, and POP!. 

Ascott’s loyalty program, Ascott Star Rewards, offers exclusive benefits to its members when they book directly with Ascott for their stays at its participating properties. 

Ascott, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CapitaLand Limited, pioneered Asia Pacific’s first international-class serviced apartment with the opening of The Ascott Singapore in 1984. Today,  the company boasts over 30 years of industry track record and award-winning brands that enjoy recognition worldwide. 

In India, in addition to its two operational properties, Ascott will extend its portfolio with Ascott  Ireo City Gurugram and Citadines Paras Square Gurugram that are slated to open in 2022 while  Citadines Calangute Goa and Citadines Candolim Goa will open in 2023. In total, Ascott has a  portfolio of seven properties across four cities with more than 1,200 units, making it the leading international serviced residence owner-operator in the country. 

For more information, please visit www.the-ascott.com. 

About CapitaLand Limited  

CapitaLand Limited (CapitaLand) is one of Asia’s largest diversified real estate groups.  Headquartered and listed in Singapore, it owns and manages a global portfolio worth about  S$137.7 billion as of 31 March 2021. CapitaLand’s portfolio spans across diversified real estate classes which include commercial, retail; business park, industrial and logistics; integrated development, urban development; as well as lodging and residential. With a presence across  more than 240 cities in over 30 countries, the Group focuses on Singapore and China as its core

“we define global living”

Ascott International Management (India) Private Limited (CIN: U45204TN2006PTC061040) 

94, Sathyadev Avenue, MRC Nagar 

Chennai 600 028 India 

t (91-44) 7100 0001  

www.the-ascott.com 

markets, while it continues to expand in markets such as India, Vietnam, Australia, Europe, and the USA. 

CapitaLand has one of the largest real estate investment management businesses globally. It manages six listed real estate investment trusts (REITs) and business trusts as well as over 20  private funds. CapitaLand launched Singapore’s first REIT in 2002 and today, its stable of REITs and business trusts comprises CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust, Ascendas Real Estate  Investment Trust, Ascott Residence Trust, CapitaLand China Trust, Ascendas India Trust, and  CapitaLand Malaysia Mall Trust. 

CapitaLand places sustainability at the core of what it does. As a responsible real estate company,  CapitaLand contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the communities where it operates, as it delivers long-term economic value to its stakeholders. 

Visit www.capitaland.com for more information.  

Issued by: The Ascott Limited Website: www.the-ascott.com 

94, Sathyadev Avenue, MRC Nagar, Chennai 600028 

For more information, please contact: 

Manessa Raghavan, Senior Marketing Manager 

Email: manessa.raghavan@the-ascott.com

“we define global living”

Ascott International Management (India) Private Limited (CIN: U45204TN2006PTC061040) 

94, Sathyadev Avenue, MRC Nagar 

Chennai 600 028 India 

t (91-44) 7100 0001  

www.the-ascott.com 

Annex A – Telehealth assistance, Tele counselling and travel security advisory services  

Telehealth assistance and Tele counselling 

Ascott’s guests have unlimited round-the-clock telephone access to International SOS’  Assistance Centres via the property’s front desk from the comfort and privacy of their own apartments. Guests can tap the International SOS’ panel of accredited doctors for medical advice and assistance2on matters including but not limited to medication, non-life-threatening ailments,  acute and chronic illnesses. Guests can also seek advice on other health-related matters such as pandemic-related information, arrangement for medical evacuation1and repatriation2, as well as outpatient case management2.  

Guests can also access the International SOS panel of accredited counselors to help with a wide range of mental and emotional health issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship management, trauma, anger and grief. International SOS will also provide tips and exercises to  Ascott, to help guests build mental resilience, promote mindfulness, manage stress and improve their overall well-being.  

Travel security advisory 

International SOS will provide Ascott and its guests with timely information on incidents such as street protests, natural disasters, travel restrictions and security threats - gathered from  International SOS’s various technical and on-the-ground sources. The travel security information will help Ascott and its guests to avoid, mitigate and navigate any potential or ongoing security risks and threats encountered. It also includes advice on but not limited to the choice of safe ground transportation and emergency evacuations. Guests can also contact International SOS via the property’s front desk to obtain more specific global travel security advice. 

About the International SOS Group of Companies 

The International SOS Group of Companies is in the business of saving lives, protecting the global workforce from health and security threats. It delivers customized health, security risk management and well-being solutions to fuel growth and productivity. In the event of extreme weather, an epidemic or a security incident, the International SOS Group provides an immediate response providing peace of mind. Its innovative technology and medical and security expertise focus on prevention, offering real-time, actionable insights and on-the-ground quality delivery.  Founded in 1985, the International SOS Group, headquartered in London and Singapore, is trusted by 12,000 organizations, including the majority of the Fortune 500, as well as mid-size enterprises, governments, educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations. It has  12,000 multicultural medical, security, and logistics experts to provide support and assistance from over 1,000 locations in 90 countries, 24/7, 365 days.  

1 Additional charge apply.

“we define global living”

Ascott International Management (India) Private Limited (CIN: U45204TN2006PTC061040) 

94, Sathyadev Avenue, MRC Nagar 

Chennai 600 028 India 

t (91-44) 7100 0001  

www.the-ascott.com 

Annex B - Enhanced ‘Ascott Cares’ commitment  

The enhanced ‘Ascott Cares’ commitment to provide stringent hygiene and safety standards,  wellness support, and implement sustainable practices cover seven areas: 

1. Our Staff  

Personal protective equipment such as masks, protective screens, gloves, and hand sanitizers will be provided to staff. Workspaces and staff accommodation will be regularly sanitized,  and staff has to undergo regular temperature screening. Ascott will leverage technology to create virtual communities for social activities and events, and use social media platforms and digital tools to meet training commitments where necessary. Staff is to also adopt contactless greetings.  

2. Wellness & Security  

A comprehensive suite of health and security teleservices will be provided to all guests round-the-clock. Guests have ready access to masks and hand sanitizers at the property upon request or in high-traffic areas. Guests are to also provide health and travel declarations and undergo temperature checks where applicable and required by local authorities. 

3. Social Distancing 

The number of guests will be limited to high-touch zones. Floor markings will be used as a  visual guide, while furniture at the lobby and other interaction points will be reconfigured where necessary to allow social distancing, comfort, and facilitate a smoother flow of traffic.  The number of visitors in guests’ apartments will also be restricted.  

4. Hygiene & Cleanliness 

Enhanced processes to raise the standard of hygiene and cleanliness in accordance with the  World Health Organization’s standards and local regulations have been rolled out across  Ascott’s properties. This includes increased disinfection and cleaning frequencies with stricter audits by in-house and independent agencies, as well as the adaptation of food &  beverage services. Antimicrobial coatings and effective disinfection technology have been applied in the lifts where possible to enhance safety. 

5. Contactless & Paperless 

Leverage digital technologies to minimize contacts such as the use of the ‘Discover ASR’  mobile app to access apartments, make contactless payments, and self-check-in and check-out. To introduce Aria, (acronym for Ascott Robotic Intelligent Assistant) Ascott’s service delivery robot at properties, where applicable. There is a further reduction of paper products such as providing digital manuals to operate kitchen appliances as well as offering digital newspapers and magazines. 

6. Our Vendors 

Enhanced protocols and collaboration with Ascott’s vendors and partners to ensure stringent health requirements are met. Improved supply chain visibility, tighter measures during 

“we define global living”

Ascott International Management (India) Private Limited 

(CIN: U45204TN2006PTC061040) 

94, Sathyadev Avenue, MRC Nagar 

Chennai 600 028 India 

t (91-44) 7100 0001  

www.the-ascott.com 

deliveries, enhanced Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points training and procedures are being rolled out to all deliveries and laundry vendors also have to comply with local health and hygiene regulations.  

7. Go Green 

As part of Ascott’s commitment to sustainability, it will continue to transform its practices to protect the environment in the communities that it operates in. Properties to incorporate green elements to create sustainable residences that are comfortable and energy-efficient.  Staff to embrace Environment, Health & Safety practices to minimize pollution, health, and safety risks. Staff to also reduce energy and water consumption, paper usage, and waste. To ensure operating equipment and supplies adhere to green specifications and implement green operating practices.

“We define global living”

Taj Resorts, North Goa in collaboration with Don Bosco, Parra creates F&B and Housekeeping labs for students

From conceptualizing the layout to providing most of the required equipment, Taj, North Goa ensured the Labs are well equipped to deliver the best to the students undergoing training at the institute.

Taj Resorts, North Goa in collaboration with Don Bosco, Parra have created Food & Beverage and Housekeeping Labs to help train aspiring youth who are keen to join the hospitality industry.

From conceptualizing the layout to providing most of the required equipment, Taj, North Goa ensured the Labs are well equipped to deliver the best to the students undergoing training at the institute.

Some of the essential elements used to build the Food & Beverage Training Lab include the different types of Crockery, Cutlery, Glassware, Tableware and Bar Essentials. The Housekeeping Lab is a representation of a guest room with furnishings, upholstery and linen.

In addition, the departmental trainers of Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa and Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa will also visit the center to train students on various expert skills. Furthermore, the Resorts with continue to support by providing industrial exposure to the students which is mandatory part of their curriculum.

Speaking on the collaboration, Anmol Ahluwalia, Cluster General Manager – Taj, North Goa said, “It is our responsibility to ensure that the students are equipped with best of knowledge to help shape the hospitality industry in the years ahead. We are thankful to Don Bosco for their contribution and for allowing us to be part of their initiative to assist the needy youth and create livelihoods for them.”

Taj Resorts, North Goa also engages with ambitious students through various online sessions sharing insights and expert skills in different segments of the hospitality industry.

Visit Maldives | MALDIVES MINISTRY OF TOURISM LAUNCHES ‘I’M VACCINATED’ CAMPAIGN

Visit Maldives together with the Ministry of Tourism launches "I'm Vaccinated" campaign in order to share a positive message regarding the vaccination of staff working in the tourism sector as well as promoting the initiatives undertaken to ensure the Maldives remains one of the safest destinations in the world for travelers.

Under this campaign, the ultimate target is to make the Maldives the first fully vaccinated tourism sector in the world. Along with the unique geographical formation of the islands which offer natural physical distancing, and the stringent health and safety measures in place, a fully vaccinated tourism sector will become an added advantage in encouraging tourists to visit the destination.

The campaign was launched during a special press event held on 28th April 2021 organized by Visit Maldives and the Ministry of Tourism. The event was joined by the Minister of Tourism, Minister of State of the Ministry of Health, Secretary-General of Guesthouse Association of Maldives and Vice Chairman of Maldives Association of Tourism Industry.

The event commenced with opening remarks by the Minister of Tourism Honorable Dr. Abdulla Mausoom. The Minister remarked upon the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism industry during 2020 and emphasized the immense sacrifice, effort and hardwork invested by the health industry, tourism industry, and all members of the Maldivian society. In addition, the Minister stated that being able to provide vaccination to members in the tourism industry was a huge accomplishment. The Minister officially initiated the ‘I’m Vaccinated’ campaign followed by a short video showcasing the ‘I’m Vaccinated’ logo.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of State of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Shah Abdulla Mahir stated that over 65% of the eligible Maldivian population have received the vaccine and over 90% of the eligible tourism industry is vaccinated. The Minister of State of the Ministry of Health placed importance on practicing health and safety measures regardless of the vaccination and placed emphasis on the importance of achieving herd immunity. He thanked MMPRC and the Ministry of Tourism for launching the ‘I’m Vaccinated’ campaign as the campaign will promote the vaccination drive and motivate facilities in the tourism industry to vaccinate their staff.

Afterwards, MMPRC presented the esteemed delegation with a special ‘I’m Vaccinated’ badge. The badge will be presented to members of the tourism industry who have received the prescribed dose(s) of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Following the launch of the program, The Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), Mr. Thoyyib Mohamed stated that the purpose of the ‘I’m Vaccination’ campaign is to promote vaccination for all members in the tourism industry and for the Maldives to have the first fully-vaccinated tourism industry in the world. The Managing Director of MMPRC also unveiled a microsite that will be launched under the ‘I’m Vaccinated’ Campaign and social media activities that will be initiated alongside. .

The microsite will display a counter displaying the number of tourist industry staff vaccination as well as information regarding registration for vaccination of employees and the latest HPA guidelines. Furthermore, the social media campaign component of the campaign will present images and videos of workers in the tourism industry with a pinned vaccination badge that will be presented to them by Visit Maldives once they receive the prescribed dose(s) of the COVID-19 vaccination. The social media campaign will further help advertise the Maldives as a ‘safe haven’ destination across the globe.

Speaking at the conference, Secretary-General of Guesthouse Association of Maldives, Saudhulla Ahmed Hassan Didi noted on the impact of COVID-19 on the guesthouse industry and island communities while Vice Chairman of Maldives Association of Tourism Industry, Mr. Salah Shihab recognized the sacrifice undertaken by members of the tourism industry as they had to stay apart from families during the pandemic, stating that the ‘I’m Vaccinated’ campaign gives hope to workers across the industry.

The campaign will uplift the destination's beautiful name in the global market and reassure travelers that the Maldives will further remain as one of the safest destinations to travel to during this unprecedented time. In addition, the campaign will also ensure travelers from all over the world of the immense effort and investment into ensuring the safety of both the local population and travelers.

On 1st February 2021, Maldives initiated the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine, and the government aims to provide free COVID-19 vaccine to all citizens and residents of Maldives in the upcoming months. The initiation of the vaccination drive is bound to offer hope to the local population, as well as ensure the safety of tourists. This conveys the message that the Maldives is a low-risk destination for travelers and will hopefully generate a surge in tourist arrival.

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Brands | Crowne Plaza Greater Noida launches virtual fitness week

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida has joined hands with Wizard Health and Wellness to launch a week-long virtual fitness program: #PowerFit.

In a bid to help people in staying healthy and maintaining wellness at home during Covid-19 induced lockdowns, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida has joined hands with Wizard Health and Wellness to launch a week-long virtual fitness program: #PowerFit. The daily one-hour stress buster session is aimed at bringing internally certified workouts by Les Mills to home-bound people, with safety being the priority and fitter community the intention. Ideal for all age groups, the platform is offering live classes on how to perform high-intensity cardio exercises, Yoga, Zumba, Pilates, Tai Chi and more.

Expressing gratitude towards this initiative, Ashwani Nayar, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida said, “Owing to the second wave of Covid-19 pandemic, many of us are staying at home and doing less in terms of social interactions and exercise, which is leaving negative effects on both physical and mental health. Improving physical health and well-being have now become the need of the hour. With the help of #PowerFit, we are motivating people to use physical activity and exercise as a strategy to maintain health during this stressful period. The platform serves as our little contribution towards creating a healthier & happier environment, with world-class experts leading the way to build emotional resilience and physical health at a time like this.”

With the pandemic-led-school closures, the physical and emotional well-being of children has become every parent’s cause for concern. To re-kindly the cheer and positivity into the lives of kids at home, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida is also launching a virtual summer camp “Summer Diaries 2021” from 25th May 2021 till 11th June 2021 in association with Wizard Health and Wellness. The 15-days-long summer camp will include various fun-filled creative and fitness activities including Aerobics, Karate, Zumba, Western dance, Art and & Craft, Singing & Vocal Training, Creative Writing, and more. The camp will also host complimentary Zumba sessions for parents, along with special webinars on socio-emotional issues with children during the lockdown.

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Event | Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre honours Society of Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) Volunteers and healthcare workers

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre honours Society of Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) Volunteers and healthcare workers

Hyderabad: May 21st, 2021: Ever since the highly contagious Coronavirus outbreak, the frontline workers and volunteers have been selflessly working around the clock to bring things under control. As a step to honour these unsung heroes, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (NHCC) come forward with a heart-warming gesture by organising lunch for the volunteers of the Society of Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) at Commissioner's office in Gachibowli. The lunch was attended by Mr V C Sajjanar, Additional Director General of Police of Telangana and Cyberabad Police Commissioner along with staff & volunteers of SCSC.  

Society of Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) has taken up a campaign helping people who are looking for beds, oxygen and ambulances and other medical needs.  SCSC has set up a special cell (group of volunteers) that helps the COVID patients by connecting them with the hospitals and supporting their treatment. The food menu was specially curated keeping in mind their nutritional needs to fight the pandemic. The hotel ensured all safety and hygiene measures were maintained while creating and delivering the meals. 

NHCC also provided 200+ meals for the doctors and healthcare staff of Medicover Hospital, Hitec City, Madhapur as a special gesture for their dedication and hard work in saving lives and serving humanity during this time of crisis.

According to Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, “As we continue our fight against the pandemic, the volunteers and medical community have emerged as true heroes helping the communities manage the crisis. We understand there is an urgent requirement of safe and nutritious food for the front-line workers.  As a small gesture of our appreciation and respect towards them we have organised a lunch for the volunteers of the Society of Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) and also provided meals to the healthcare staff at Medicover Hospital. At NHCC we are committed to the wellbeing of our communities and will continue to support such initiatives in the future.” 

Mr V C Sajjanar Additional Director-General of Police of Telangana and Cyberabad Police Commissioner appreciated the Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre team for their kind gesture towards the Front-line warriors and the volunteers (SCSC). He urged other corporates to come forward and join hands to fight this war against COVID-19.

About Novotel-

Novotel Hotels, Suites & Resorts offers destination hotels designed as comforting and energizing places where guests can ‘press pause’ and take time to enjoy the moments that really matter. The brand’s wide array of hotels, suites and resorts offer a multitude of services for business and leisure guests alike, including spacious, modular rooms with natural and intuitive design; 24/7 catering with nutritious choices; dedicated meeting spaces; attentive and proactive staff; family zones for the youngest guests; multi-purpose lobbies; and accessible fitness centres. Novotel, which has over 530 locations in more than 60 countries is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

About SCSC 

SCSC is a registered not-for-profit body founded in the year 2006 and operates in tandem with Cyberabad Police to promote safety & security in the Cyberabad IT corridor, empowered by the IT industry to attend to the security needs of IT companies.  The Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) is the joint collaboration between Cyberabad Police Commissionerate and IT industry to promote Hyderabad as the preferred IT destination.

The Council gives high priority to Personal safety, particularly Women safety, IT infrastructure safety, Traffic safety, Cybersafety and Information security so that business continuity takes place in a healthy living environment.

NEWS | Novotel Hyderabad Airport introduces “Work from Hotel”

Novotel Hyderabad Airport introduces “Work from Hotel” 

17th May 2021, Hyderabad: The growing concerns surrounding the pandemic and lockdowns have made companies practice WFH again, and employees are on a constant lookout for safer & relaxed workspace options to break the monotony of working from home, obviously with greater emphasis on enhanced hygiene and sanitization. Novotel Hyderabad Airport has announced “Work from Hotel” and there are innumerable options to choose from, one can either pick a spot in a traditional meeting room or if you like to be surrounded by nature then Novotel Hyderabad Airport is the spot for you. the hotel boasts of the lush green cover present in the hotel and if you are lucky enough you might even spot few migratory birds around, there have various alfresco seating options that one can choose from and they are perfect to enjoy a cup of coffee while one peruses to achieve their work deadlines, not only this you can even bring your furry friends along for them to enjoy various dog treats curated by our chefs at the hotel. Also, the hotel takes care of all your work needs be it highly effective WIFI, basic stationery, or printouts. 

Novotel Hyderabad Airport will also provide amenities like Super-Fast WIFI (Out Door /Indoor), Dedicated Plug & Play Office Space, Office Essentials Kit, Unlimited Tea & Coffee, Immunity Booster Drinks, Housekeeping services, and much more. 

 According to Mr. Rubin Cherian, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Airport, “Keeping in mind the present developments we are providing a safe, alternative working space to individuals and organizations looking to work remotely. Our functional indoor and outdoor spaces are vibrant and conducive to fuelling innovation, productivity, and meaningful collaboration and at the same time adhere to the safety and hygiene standards. We are working with corporates and businesses to offer personalized solutions to meet their requirements” 

About Novotel-

Novotel Hotels, Suites & Resorts offers destination hotels designed as comforting and energizing places where guests can ‘press pause’ and take time to enjoy the moments that really matter. The brand’s wide array of hotels, suites, and resorts offer a multitude of services for business and leisure guests alike, including spacious, modular rooms with natural and intuitive design; 24/7 catering with nutritious choices; dedicated meeting spaces; attentive and proactive staff; family zones for the youngest guests; multi-purpose lobbies and accessible fitness centers. Novotel, which has over 530 locations in more than 60 countries, is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,000 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. For more information and reservations visit all.accor.com or become a fan and follow us on Twitter and Facebook. novotel.com | group.accor.com

NEWS | 4-day work week for OYO, Ritesh Agarwal announces

OYO Founder and Group CEO Ritesh Agarwal made the announcement on Twitter saying the implementation would make Wednesdays an off to give employees a breather.

Hospitality firm OYO will be shifting to a 4-day work week, OYO Founder and Group CEO Ritesh Agarwal said in a tweet on Wednesday, as the company also launched a no questions asked flexible infinite paid leaves initiative. Agarwal in a tweet noted that COVID-19 continues to test the physical and mental well-being of people. One thing that truly matters is having more time for our loved ones and ourselves. Inspired by startups and large companies alike, we began a few initiatives this week at OYO, he said.

"Starting today we are moving to a 4-day work week but implementing it slightly differently, making Wednesdays off to let OYOpreneurs have a mid-week breather. We also launched a No Questions Asked Flexible Infinite Paid Leaves," he added.

In a series of tweets on the initiative, Agarwal said that employees can take off when they want and just need to inform their manager about it.

"Take off when you want, no need to log them, just let the manager know, no reasons needed, none asked. We are not going to stress about business impact and deadlines. We know work will not suffer, if anything OYOpreneurs will be more focused, efficient, and productive," he said in another tweet.

Stating that he would also like to unwind, Agarwal said,"I personally plan to wind down today and spend more time with my family, volunteering with the OYO COVID War Room & talking to a few friends and colleagues whose families have been impacted severely in the last few weeks".

As the country continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, "I hope & pray that we all emerge out of this crisis sooner. Until then we must all have each other's back & tide over this crisis together. Stay safe". OYO Hotels & Homes currently has over 1,00,000 small hotels and homeowners across 800 cities in 80 countries on its platform.