Category Archives: Hotels

In its continued efforts to position Rajasthan as a premier global destination, the Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, in collaboration with the Federation of Hospitality and Tourism of Rajasthan (FHTR), is making an exclusive and vibrant appearance at the prestigious “Colors of the World Fair” being held from 18 April to 20 April, 2025, in Istanbul, Turkey. The Rajasthan Pavilion is an immersive celebration of the State’s rich cultural heritage, tourism potential and warm hospitality. On day one, the Pavilion witnessed a grand opening ceremony and quickly became a hub of activity and attraction. Visitors were welcomed by senior officials from the Department of Tourism, along with the Presidents of FHTR and Hotel and Restaurant Association of Rajasthan (HRAR), and prominent members of Indian Heritage Hotels Association (IHHA) and Rajasthan Association of Tour Operators (RATO). The delegation also includes renowned hoteliers, travel agents, destination management companies, event professionals, folk artists, and culinary experts. It is to be noted that Rajasthan’s presence stood out with vibrant traditional attire, including saris and turbans, soulful folk music, live culinary experiences, and engaging cultural activities and giveaways. The Pavilion received an overwhelming response from international guests, who were particularly enchanted by the live music performances and the unique opportunity to sample Rajasthani culture firsthand. President of FHTR, Kuldeep Singh Chandela delivered a heartfelt welcome address, setting the tone for Rajasthan’s participation. He, along with Joint Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, Dr. Punita Singh, also joined an insightful panel discussion on the future of global tourism, engaging with high-ranking tourism officials from across the world. The fair has also highlighted the tremendous tourism potential between Turkiye and Rajasthan, with cultural similarities and …

HVS ANAROCK Hotel General Managers Survey captures industry leaders’ perspectives on key trends and opportunities in 2025. This year, ADR remains the top priority for them, especially for business hotels where 70% plan to focus on ADR growth. In contrast, leisure hotels show a more balanced approach, with 58% prioritising occupancy. While business hotels remain anchored in corporate bookings and MICE, and leisure hotels prioritise FITs, weddings and social events are emerging as a significant revenue driver across both segments.

The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), in collaboration with the FHRAI Institute of Hospitality Management (FHRAI-IHM) and with the support of the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, hosted Harit Yoga – A Signature Event as part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations. The event took place at the FHRAI-IHM campus in Greater Noida. Bringing together students, hospitality professionals, and wellness advocates, the event celebrated yoga as a powerful tool for harmony, peace, and environmental consciousness. The session was led by expert trainers from Mokshayatan Yog Sansthan, Noida, including Yogacharya Mukta Sharma and Yogacharya Divya Sharma, with support from Yogi Vaibhav, Yogi Rahul, Yogini Nikki, and Yogini Kavita. As part of the celebration, saplings were distributed to participants by Shri S C Suneja and Dr Narendra Kumar, symbolising a collective commitment to environmental stewardship. This act of tree planting underscored the event’s theme and served as a tangible reminder of the connection between personal well-being and ecological health. The gathering commenced with the Common Yoga Protocol and was followed by a series of curated yoga practices, breathing exercises, and guided meditation. Each session aimed to highlight yoga not just as a physical discipline but as a holistic way of life that cultivates mindfulness, balance, and a deeper connection with nature. This year’s theme, “Harit Yoga: Embrace Nature, Embrace Peace,” placed a special emphasis on sustainable living and the role of yoga in nurturing both personal and planetary well-being. Conversations on green practices and lifestyle choices were woven into the programme, encouraging participants to make conscious decisions that align with wellness and ecological balance. Jaison Chacko, Secretary General, FHRAI said, “Yoga is not just about postures or routines. …

GRT Hotels & Resorts hosted a vibrant meet in the capital, bringing together key players from the fraternity for an evening of networking, knowledge sharing, and partnership building. The event witnessed participation from some of the most respected names in the industry, reinforcing GRT’s commitment to strengthening its travel trade relationships across the country. The gathering showcased GRT Hotels’ expanding portfolio and innovative experiences across South India, with special emphasis on its award-winning resorts and urban escapes. Guests were also given exclusive updates on new offerings, signature experiences, and the brand’s vision for the year ahead. Speaking on the occasion, Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, said: “Our travel trade partners have been integral to our growth journey. Events like these allow us to reconnect, exchange ideas, and explore new possibilities together. At GRT Hotels & Resorts, we believe in creating not just stays but stories – and our partners help us take those stories far and wide.”

IHCL signed the SeleQtions hotel in Anjuna, Goa, a conversion of a standalone resort with expansion of inventory to 51 keys. The hotel will offer an array of culinary experiences, including an all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant, and a cocktail bar. Guests can unwind with a range of recreational amenities such as a swimming pool and a well-equipped gym.

In the aftermath of the recent terrorist incident in Kashmir, V Vidyavathi, Secretary (Tourism), has requested all tourist service operators, travel agents, tour operators, and OTAs, tourist transport providers, hoteliers and all other accommodation units to provide all possible assistance to the tourists, including waving off cancellation fees. Meanwhile, Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu held an urgent meeting with all airline operators and issued a strong advisory against surge pricing. Airlines have been directed to maintain regular fare levels, ensuring that no passenger is burdened during this sensitive time. As part of immediate relief measures, four special flights from Srinagar—two to Delhi and two to Mumbai—have been arranged, with additional flights kept on standby to cater to further evacuation needs.

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of its latest property, Cozzet Mahad in Maharashtra. This strategic expansion strengthens the brand’s regional presence, catering to business and leisure travellers. In its first phase, Cozzet Mahad features an inventory of 55 keys under Superior, Club and Suite categories. The second phase will further enhance the offering with an additional 55 rooms, providing guests with a wider selection of accommodations. In terms of its F&B offerings, Cozzet Mahad houses C Pavilion, an all-day dining restaurant catering to diverse culinary preferences. Guests can indulge in a diverse selection of fresh, healthy, hygienic, and thoughtfully prepared world cuisines at C Pavilion. The restaurant also offers tempting mocktails and relishing light bites for a quick snack. Gossip Veg Bistro is a fully vegetarian eatery which offers exquisite tastes. Guests can also bask in the comfort of their room while digging on their favourite food at any time of the day, thanks to in-room dining. More to this is the perched high above the city, Metro Sky Lounge is a stunning 60-cover rooftop restro bar that offers a perfect blend of ambiance, taste, and skyline magic. With panoramic views that stretch across the urban horizon, it’s the ultimate destination for those who seek elevated evenings and unforgettable moments. Cozzet Mahad offers an elegant MICE venue, Summit, a well-appointed banquet and conference hall designed for both formal and informal gatherings. With modern amenities and a versatile layout, the facility comfortably accommodates up to 250 guests, making it ideal for conferences, celebrations, and intimate events alike. Speaking on the latest opening, Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, shared, “The Cozzet is a …

Minor Hotels announces the arrival of the Avani Hotels & Resorts brand in India with Avani+ Sunray Beach Visakhapatnam Resort, an exclusive new-build resort and branded residences development set along the scenic Sunray Beach in Visakhapatnam, India. The project will feature 117 hotel rooms and 58 branded residential villas, alongside a suite of premium amenities designed to set a new benchmark for hospitality in the region. The announcement comes as Minor Hotels significantly accelerates its expansion strategy in India, targeting 50 new openings in the country over the next decade.

Calling on Agoda to immediately reverse the recent changes to its commission structure, K Syama Raju, President, Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), said, “We strongly urge Agoda to uphold equitable business practices and maintain complete transparency in their engagements with Indian hotel partners.”

GRT Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading boutique hospitality group, celebrated World Heritage Day with a heritage-themed quiz, bringing together history enthusiasts, guests, and team members from across 17 properties in five South Indian states. We had 650 participants taking part in the hybrid event. Hosted by Nawabzada Mohammed Asif Ali, Dewan to the Prince of Arcot, whose deep knowledge of Indian heritage and culture enriched the occasion. Designed to spotlight India’s diverse and storied legacy, the quiz featured questions on UNESCO World Heritage Sites, iconic monuments, ancient dynasties, regional art forms, and cultural traditions. Participants competed in a fun, hybrid format—both on-ground and online—for attractive prizes, including stay and dining vouchers at GRT Hotels & Resorts. Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, said “World Heritage Day is a celebration of the past that shapes our present. Through this quiz, we aimed to spark curiosity, encourage learning, and honour India’s magnificent heritage. We are grateful to Nawabzada Mohammed Asif Ali for lending his insight and grace to this event.” The event also served as a cultural platform, fostering community engagement and offering guests a taste of GRT’s signature hospitality with specially curated local delicacies reflecting India’s timeless heritage.