Tourism industry bets big on expansion in outbound travel
by Anumeha Chaturvedi
During WEF: Insider tip for winter sports enthusiasts
Winter sports enthusiasts should take the next few days off: The pistes and cross-country trails in Davos Klosters are an insider’s tip during the World Economic Forum (WEF). In short: excellent piste conditions and plenty of space – ideal for a day trip.
While Trump, Merkel or Macron meet at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, there is plenty of space on Davos Klosters’ pistes and cross-country tracks. No wonder: Davos Klosters is considered an insider’s tip during the WEF period from 23 to 26 January 2018. There are never so few winter sports enthusiasts on the mountains on these days. Or in other words: lots of space on the slopes to get the carving turns right again, no waiting times at mountain restaurants and lifts and excellent snow conditions.
Pischa and Rinerhorn closed during the WEF period
Speaking of lifts: the ski areas of Parsenn, Jakobshorn, Schatzalp, Gotschna and Madrisa are open in advance. Only Pischa and the Rinerhorn are closed during the WEF period. By contrast, night skiing and sledding on Friday 26 January 2018 on the Rinerhorn will take place as usual. The indoor swimming pool “Eau-là-là” will be closed until 1 February 2018.
Easy arrival possible
The route to Davos Klosters is open and can be easily reached by public transport or private vehicle. Good to know: Guests can move freely in Klosters without restriction. In Davos, only the security zones around the congress centre, the Hotel Seehof Davos, the InterContinental Hotel and the Steigenberger Grandhotel Belvédère are closed. Otherwise, the place is open to everyone.
Taj Hotels Takes The Lead At The First Edition Of ‘Top Restaurant Awards’ By Condé Nast Traveller
Mumbai 20th December: Seven iconic restaurants by Taj have been awarded in the first edition of Top Restaurant Awards, India’s definitive list of the country’s 50 finest restaurants by Condé Nast Traveller. The Taj Group emerged with the highest wins and the results were announced in the presence of some of the most prominent names in the hospitality industry along with food writers, critics, influencers, and opinion makers.
The seven awards were conferred to Karavalli at The Gateway Hotel, Residency Road in Bangalore; Adaa at Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad; Thai Pavillion at Vivanta by Taj – President in Mumbai; Wasabi by Morimoto at The Taj Mahal Hotel in Delhi; Blue Ginger at Taj West End in Bangalore and Southern Spice at Taj Coromandel in Chennai. Wasabi by Morimoto at the flagship hotel The Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai has been ranked 6th in the country for the Top Restaurant Awards this year. Wasabi by Morimoto, a multi-award winning contemporary Japanese dining destination in Mumbai and Delhi was created in collaboration with the globally renowned Iron Chef – Masaharu Morimoto. The restaurant is credited with introducing India to the flavours and intricacy of contemporary Japanese cuisine with inspiration drawn from China, France, Korea and other corners of the Orient. Authenticity is the hallmark for Karavalli at The Gateway Hotel, Residency Road in Bangalore where well-researched homemade recipes come together to offer an exotic fare with a unique compilation of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies.
Ensuring an authentic meal experience, the dishes replicate mothers and grandmothers’ recipes by the chefs of Karavalli, who are trained in the kitchens of the traditional homes.
Adaa at Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad offers guests a carefully crafted slow-cooked Hyderabadi meal that recreates the wonders of the royal kitchens. With an ever-changing menu of contrasting sweet, sour and spice, Thai Pavillion at Vivanta by Taj – President in Mumbai sets the standards for Thai cuisine in the country with an interactive kitchen and an excellent pairing of food with a fine collection of young and vintage wines. Blue Ginger at Taj West End, Bengaluru has the distinction of being the first in India to serve exclusive Vietnamese cuisine, offering a unique dining experience with a Farm to Fork concept. Southern Spice at Taj Coromandel, Chennai brings the legendary cuisine experience from the 5 southern states of India, with an alluring presentation and extensive research on Mudaliar, Malabar and other region centric cuisines.
The nominations for the first edition of Top Restaurant Awards by Condé Nast Traveller were evaluated by a panel of more than a hundred judges, comprising of food writers, critics, food enthusiasts, and tastemakers.
The Iconic Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai Celebrates 114 Years Of Its Legacy
16th December 2017, Mumbai: The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai – the flagship hotel of Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris – celebrates its 114th anniversary today. One of the defining landmarks of Mumbai’s cityscape, ‘The Taj’, as it is fondly called, is the great and lasting legacy of its founder Jamshetji Tata, who envisioned a hotel that would set the benchmark for Indian hospitality. Ever since it opened its doors on the 16th of December 1903, The Taj has blazed a trail of innovation and excellence that continues, even today, to make it India’s most widely-known name in luxury hospitality world over.
In June 2017, The Taj secured image trademark rights for its elegant hotel building and its characteristic dome from the Government of India, making it a part of an elite club of structures around the world to have done so. This development is the latest in many firsts that the hotel is credited with. The Taj was Mumbai’s first clear landmark that could be seen from the sea and unknown to most, the hotel preceded the famous Gateway of India by over 20 years. It was the first hotel in India to have electricity, India’s first 24-hour coffee shop, India’s first Sichuan restaurant and Mumbai’s first licensed bar. It was The Taj that pioneered fine dining cuisine, in-room dining and introduced the butler service in India. And it was from the steps of The Taj Mahal Palace that Lord Mountbatten announced India’s independence.
Over the years, The Taj has hosted the likes of Sarojini Naidu, Ravi Shankar, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Barbara Cartland, Bill Clinton, David Rockefeller, George Bernard Shaw, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Margaret Thatcher, Mick Jagger, Prince Charles, Sir Richard Attenborough, and Barack Obama, to name a few. Be it the lavish Bell Tower or the magnificent Maratha, The Taj’s signature luxury suites, each adorned with rich textures and opulent décor, continue to host stars and statesmen to this day. The history of Shamiana and the legacy of Harbour Bar, India’s oldest bar, charmingly blend with the modern flair of Wasabi by Morimoto, making Taj a destination of choice for bon vivants, captains of industry, and iconoclastic artists. It is the place where the works of Hussain, Sabavala, Ara, and Gaitonde adorn the walls; and the place where the Beatles could have composed a love story.
Commenting on the occasion of the 114th anniversary, Mr. Taljinder Singh, Area Director – Mumbai and General Manager, The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai, said, “The Taj Mahal Palace was Jamsetji Tata’s vision for the future of Indian hospitality, and his legacy to the city of Mumbai. The hotel has set the bar for service excellence and innovation. The Taj is woven into the lives of generations of Indians and we feel privileged in setting new benchmarks of fine living and serving our treasured guests for years to come.”
AccorHotels Launches Singapore’s Newest Integrated Lifestyle Hub
AccorHotels announces the launch of Singapore’s newest integrated lifestyle hub with the opening of Novotel Singapore on Stevens and Mercure Singapore on Stevens. Developed by Oxley Holdings Limited, the complex features 772 guest rooms, 14 dining outlets, two outdoor pools, a tennis court and a function space that can accommodate more than 500 guests.
The combination of two award-winning hotel brands within one integrated lifestyle complex is a big step forward for AccorHotels
Strategically located at the edge of Orchard Road, the two hotels offer guests an integrated range of gastronomy, health, fitness and lifestyle options in the precinct close to the city’s best shopping and entertainment, conveniently accessible via the hotel’s shuttle service.
Enjoy a superior room night stay from SGD 208++ with breakfast for two at Novotel Singapore on Stevens or go on a retreat from SGD 155++ per night with breakfast for two at Mercure Singapore on Stevens from now until 31 March 2018.
“The combination of two award-winning hotel brands within one integrated lifestyle complex is a big step forward for AccorHotels” says Mr. Kevin Bossino, Vice President Operations, Singapore – Midscale & Economy Brands. “We are no longer just providing a place to rest but a lifestyle and gastronomic destination where fitness enthusiasts, corporate travellers, families, local residents and foodies can enjoy our range of facilities and great restaurants.”
Featuring 254 guest rooms, Novotel Singapore on Stevens offers three dining outlets: L’Apéritif Tapas Bar serving signature cocktails and European and Asian tapas; Food Exchange featuring Thai, Indian, European and Singaporean cuisine; and for a refreshing cocktail by the pool, head to the Novotel Infinity Pool.
Infused with local design and inspiration, the 518-room Mercure Singapore on Stevens features a gourmet café, Fudebar, which serves superfood including a healthy choice of salads, sandwiches and artisanal coffees, while Winestone restaurant offers Mediterranean food and a wide range of signature wines from around the world.
The complex also features a series of pods housing an additional 9 dining outlets offering local and international cuisines from around the world.
With the opening of the Novotel Singapore on Stevens and Mercure Singapore on Stevens, AccorHotels further cements its position as the leading lifestyle and travel operator in Singapore with 15 hotels and over 6400 rooms. AccorHotels currently operates more than 800 hotels and resorts across Asia Pacific in 18 countries.
Radisson Blu Goa Kids Christmas Carnival
Radisson Blu Goa again brings for kids a Grand package of fun unlimited Christmas party, with beautifully decorated venue, face painting, lots fun-filled gaming stalls for kids and adults.
DJ to keep the kids dancing on their favorite music, lots of activities by games coordinator, magician to keep the kids thrilled, lots of spot prizes.
Kids Zumba show by famous Zumba performer Dr. Liza to keep the mom’s also engaged. Photo opportunity with Princess Elsa, Surprise Santa Claus entry at the venue on a beautiful vintage car.
Have fun while decorating giant cookies and ginger breads with our talented team of bakery chefs. Food court with scrumptious live counters for kids as well as adults and exciting Mocktail Bar, attractive return gift for every kid and lots more is included in the entry ticket.
For Reservations call. 8888884665/8888848031/9158850962
Hilton Bangalore Appoints Manish Garg as a New General Manager
Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks recently announced the appointment of Mr. Manish Garg as General Manager.
With over 20 years of experience across various hospitality companies, in both local and international markets, Manish will be well prepared to lead the entire operations of the 247 key hotel in his new role
With a strong pedigree in food and beverage, as well as conferences and events, Manish has demonstrated quality leadership skills and strong business acumen. Previously, he served as the general manager of Hilton Garden Inn Gurgaon Baani Square and did a remarkable job as the pre-opening general manager for Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum in 2013.
A native of Goa, India, Mr. Garg started his career with Hilton in 2011, and since has gained several prodigious experiences in Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn properties
Introducing New Flavours of Italy to La Piazza – Hyatt Regency Delhi
A glance into La Piazza’s pristine menu, sumptuously subtle……..
New seasons came in at La Piazza escorting new flavours from Italy and gathered praises from visitors. Chef Alessandro Sandrolini, from Bologna has been associated with La Piazza for more than a decade now, the comfort of which still continues to be reaped in the form of indulgence of traditional Bolognese dishes. On the other hand, Executive Chef Ivan Chieregatti hails all the way from Milan and brings his more than 20 years of rich culinary experience as legacy.
The idea behind the new menu is to accommodate traditional and cultural Italian cuisines from hometowns of both the chef’s. Inspired by their grandmother’s kitchen, the chef’s seeks to introduce innovative dishes, as new arrivals on the menus of La Piazza at Hyatt Regency Delhi.
Along with the one of the finest and ancient of Wines from across the world, La piazza brings in new flavours for both vegetarians and non- vegetarians namely, potato casseroles, roasted root vegetables, chicken escalope & prawns stuffed calamari. From salads & starters like warm mushroom salad, spinach & ricotta croquette to pasta & pizza such as spinach lasagne with goat cheese, Positano; there has been an inclusion of fresh and exotic combination of ingredients. Desserts unveil Bolognese cakes served with raisins, custard cream or warm chocolate plus mouth watering comfort food from Milan including nougatine parfait.
Ever since it’s opening in the year 1994, La Piazza’s reputation has been built on great food, equally complimenting wine list, friendly and gracious service and a quest to provide a warm, inviting atmosphere where guests always come first.
Introducing authentic flavours of Italy to New Delhi has always been the driving force behind the restaurants enduring success. Synonymous to one of the first Italian trattoria style dining with a live kitchen concept in the city, La Piazza is also one of the first restaurants to be known to have imported Italian products, as well as introduced customers to little known Italian wines back then. With the introduction of this new menu, La Piazza also vouches to give Delhi one of the most extensive Italian menus since its launch 22 years ago.
Cathay Pacific Group to Introduce Inflight Wi-Fi
The Cathay Pacific Group will introduce high-speed Wi-Fi to its Boeing 777 and Airbus A330 fleets from mid-2018, in response to its customers’ growing demand for inflight connectivity. This follows the successful introduction of broadband services to its Airbus A350-900 aircraft.
Cathay Pacific Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Paul Loo said: “We have been listening to our customers who have told us that staying connected inflight is important to them. Our passengers will soon be able to not only roam around the cabin when the fasten seat belt sign comes off – the whole internet awaits at 35,000 feet.
“We envisage that by 2020, all of our wide-body aircraft will have inflight connectivity capabilities. This will open up a wealth of opportunities for us to provide more innovative experiences for our customers.”
Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon will be the first major carriers in Asia to adopt Gogo’s 2Ku satellite-based broadband inflight connectivity technology. It will be installed on the airlines’ Boeing 777 and Airbus A330 aircraft.
“Our goal is to allow our customers to be connected anytime and anywhere – and this agreement with Gogo is a huge step in enabling us to deliver this,” added Mr Loo.
The high-speed service will allow customers to check emails, browse the web, access their social networks and shop online using their Wi-Fi-enabled devices, including laptops, tablets and smartphones.
Lufthansa Flew Record 111 million Passengers till October
The airlines of the Lufthansa Group have so far welcomed around 111 million passengers on board their aircraft in 2017, which is more than in the whole year of 2016. The seat load factor on the almost one million flights this year remains on a record course of 81.4 percent.
In October 2017, the airlines of the Lufthansa Group welcomed around 12.2 million passengers. This shows an increase of 16.7% compared to the previous year’s month. The available seat kilometers were up 11.6% over the previous year, at the same time, sales increased by 12.1%. The seat load factor improved accordingly, rising 0.4 percentage points compared to October 2016 to 81.4%.
The currency adjusted pricing environment developed positively in October the sixth consecutive month.
Cargo capacity increased 1% year-on-year, while cargo sales were up 2.4% in revenue tonne-kilometer terms. As a result, the Cargo load factor showed a corresponding improvement, rising 0.9 percentage points in the month.
The Network Airlines Lufthansa German Airlines, SWISS and Austrian Airlines carried nine million passengers in October, 4.1% more than in the prior-year period. Compared to the previous year, the available seat kilometers increased by 1.6% in October. The sales volume was up 2.7% over the same period, raising seat load factor by 0.8 percentage points to 81.6%.
