The event served as a vibrant platform for industry leaders, hotel owners, restaurateurs and professionals from across the western region to collaborate, share insights and recognize excellence in hospitality leadership. The event commenced with an inaugural session graced by Chief Guest – Shri Mohamed Farouk, Regional Director (Western Region), India Tourism Mumbai, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The conclave also featured thought provoking sessions led by prominent voices in policy, sustainability, food safety and operations. “The 5th edition of the Empowering Hospitality Conclave and Awards is not just a celebration of achievement; it is a reaffirmation of our industry’s resilience and commitment to progress. The hospitality sector has demonstrated remarkable grit during the pandemic and is now embracing a new era of growth powered by innovation, collaboration and forward-looking policies. This platform is a testament to the incredible talent, dedication and dynamism that define our fraternity. Today, we not only honour excellence but also strengthen the dialogue that will shape the future of Indian hospitality,” says Mr Chetan Mehta, Vice President, HRAWI. Opening the conclave on a congratulatory note, Shri Mohamed Farouk underscored the sector’s role in nation building. “It is a privilege to be part of the 5th edition of HRAWI’s ‘Empowering Hospitality’ Conclave, a platform that brings together some of the most visionary minds in the western region’s hospitality sector. The hospitality industry is not just a key driver of tourism; it is the first impression of India for many visitors. This industry’s services reflect the warmth, culture and professionalism of our nation. As India charts its course on the global tourism map, I urge the industry to focus on inclusive growth, accessible tourism, technological innovation and …

Cunard is a luxury British cruise line, renowned for creating unforgettable experiences around the world. Cunard has been a leading operator of passenger ships since 1840, and this year celebrates an incredible 185 years of operation. 2025 is a momentous year in Cunard’s history, which will be marked with several iconic land-based events and special Event Voyages. The Cunard experience is built on fine dining, hand-selected entertainment, and outstanding White Star service. From a partnership with a two-Michelin starred chef, to inspiring guest speakers, to world class theatre productions, every detail has been meticulously crafted to make the experience unforgettable. A pioneer in transatlantic journeys and round world voyages, destinations sailed to also include Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, the Far East and Australia. There are currently four Cunard ships, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and new ship, Queen Anne, which entered service in May 2024. This investment is part of the company’s ambitious plans for the future of Cunard globally, with the brand now boasting four ships in simultaneous service. Special low fares have been launched on 7 nights Europe sailings for Sep – Oct – Nov 2025. For brochures and booking, kindly contact M/s Griffon, agent of Cunard in India at 91 9820060421 or send email to sales@GriffonCruises.in

Skål International’s 2025 World President, Denise Scrafton made a powerful and symbolic visit to India, a first in many years, reaffirming India’s rising prominence in the global Skål movement. Her presence inspired renewed energy and deeper alignment across clubs, with a focus on future leadership, sustainability, youth engagement, and international cooperation. “India is fast becoming a vital force in global tourism and an emerging powerhouse within Skål. It’s time we lead today to shape a stronger tomorrow — together,” said Denise Scrafton, echoing her presidential theme and setting the tone for her impactful journey. NSN Mohan, Deputy Vice President of Skål International and Director of Region 10 (India), who accompanied her throughout the journey added, “Denise’s visit comes at a time when Skål India (Region 10) is evolving into a mission-driven force in global tourism. We are focused on collaboration, youth engagement, sustainability, and responsible tourism — values that align beautifully with her leadership vision.” Sanjeev Mehra, President of Skål International India, shared, “Her presence energized our movement and inspired our clubs. We are proud of the momentum we’re building — launching new clubs, driving inclusive leadership, broadcasting powerful and meaningful communications. India is on the path to becoming Skål’s top-performing nation. With 91 years of legacy, Skål International stands as the world’s largest and oldest organisation of tourism and hospitality professionals. Remarkably, three of its top ten clubs globally — Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata —are proudly from India.” Ms. Scrafton, who joined Skål in 2002, has held every major leadership role — from President of Skål International Melbourne and Skål International Australia to President of the Skål International Council and now World President. She pioneered the Membership Development Fund …

Cunard has reported a significant uplift in demand following the launch of its 2027 programme, with a 55% increase in nights booked during the first seven days compared to the equivalent period for the 2026 launch. Both the UK and North American markets contributed significantly to this success, with bookings up almost 50% in the UK and more than 100% in North America. There has also been a notable surge in demand for Cunard’s most exclusive luxury suites. Bookings for Queens Grill and Princess Grill suites rose by over 100% compared to the same launch period last year, reflecting growing global interest in Cunard’s distinctive Grills experience. Queen Mary 2’s Transatlantic Crossings continue to perform strongly. This iconic route remains one of Cunard’s most popular and continues to attract strong interest from guests around the world. Summer 2027 programme: Cunard’s latest programme of extraordinary voyages boasts 195 new itineraries across its iconic fleet, visiting 115 destinations in 32 countries between April 2027 and January 2028. The new itineraries include 93 UNESCO World Heritage sites. And with 18 overnight port calls and 33 late-evening departures, the programme offers even more opportunities to explore the world. The programme offers more variety and choice than ever before, with three of Cunard’s iconic Queens offering roundtrip voyages from the UK for the first time since 2018 – increasing the capacity of Southampton departures by 54% year on year. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “We’re delighted with the response to our 2027 launch. It’s wonderful to see so many guests choosing to sail with us, and the rise in bookings shows just how much people continue to value the Cunard experience. Demand for our Queens Grill and …

IHCL has announced the signing of a new hotel in Jaipur, Rajasthan. This greenfield project will be branded a Vivanta. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL said, “Fuelled by major infrastructure developments, Jaipur has rapidly evolved as key regional hub, significantly boosting demand from business and MICE segments apart from the long established leisure segment  This signing aligns with IHCL’s strategy to expand presence in such high-growth micro markets of metros an state capitals across India. We are delighted to collaborate with Dinesh Choudhary, Vivek Choudhary and Rajat Choudhary for this project.” The 160-key Vivanta Jaipur in Jagatpura is the closest hotel to the newly renovated Terminal 1 of Jaipur International Airport. The hotel features an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, a fully equipped gym, swimming pool, health club, specialty roof top restaurant and state-of-the-art conference facilities, catering to both leisure and business guests. Vivek Choudhary, Director, Wonder Build Developers Private Ltd, said, “We are proud to partner with IHCL to bring the Vivanta brand to Jaipur. This collaboration will contribute to the city’s growing hospitality landscape and offer a world-class experience to travelers. With IHCL’s expertise and the strong brand recognition of Vivanta, we are confident that the hotel will emerge as a preferred destination for travellers.” With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will have 31 hotels in Rajasthan including 8 under development.

Ventive Hospitality along with its Promoter Group Companies, announced the expansion of their strategic partnership with Marriott International, by signing management contracts for seven luxury, upper upscale and upscale hotels comprising of 1,548 rooms across India and Sri Lanka. This partnership marks multiple brand debuts in key locations including Sri Lanka, Varanasi, Mundra, Pune, and Navi Mumbai. Further, Ventive Hospitality also announced its plans to develop a hotel on its existing leasehold land in Mundra, India. Of the seven hotels, three hotels are being developed by Ventive Hospitality and its subsidiaries – the Ritz-Carlton Reserve (73 villas along with 80 branded residences for sale) at Pottuvil, near Yala East National Park in Sri Lanka; Varanasi Marriott Hotel (161 rooms) at Varanasi, India and Courtyard by Marriott (200 rooms) at Mundra, India. The remaining four hotels – the proposed JW Marriott Navi Mumbai (450 rooms), Moxy Navi Mumbai (200 rooms), Moxy Pune Wakad (264 rooms) and Moxy Pune Kharadi (200 rooms), are being developed by the Promoter Group companies on Right Of First Offer (ROFO) or alternative structure basis for the Ventive Hospitality and will be transferred to the Company under a suitable arrangement that maximizes value for all stakeholders equitably. This partnership, one of India’s largest in the luxury and upper-upscale hotel sector, leverages the strength of Ventive Hospitality’s project execution capabilities along with Marriott International’s renowned brands and hotel management expertise. Both companies are poised to unlock significant growth opportunities by capitalizing on a favorable demand-supply dynamics. This strategic partnership was formally announced by Atul Chordia, Chairman and Executive Director of Ventive Hospitality Ltd, and Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific (excluding China), Marriott International. Also present at the event were Ranju …

The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI celebrated excellence at its 5th Empowering Hospitality Conclave & Awards on 26th June 2025 at Della Resorts & Adventures, Lonavala. Graced by Chief Guest Shri Mohamed Farouk – Regional Director (Western Region), India Tourism Mumbai, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the event recognized pioneers reshaping Lonavala and Khandala’s hospitality and culinary identity through innovation, sustainability and leadership. Among the distinguished recipients was the Late Subhash Thakker, the pioneer behind Dukes Retreat, Khandala recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Maganlal & Sons, the iconic Lonavala Chikki brand founded in the 1880s at a railway cart, now a four-generation legacy of authentic taste and tradition, and Cooper’s Fudge & Chikkis, the family-run Lonavala institution since the 1950s were bestowed with Founder’s Excellence in Regional Cuisine. Jimmy Mistry (Della Group), the Creator of Sky Garden – India’s first levitating fine-dining experience 150 ft. above ground, was recognized with Innovation in Dining Award as well as with the Best Adventure Resorts Award for Della Adventure Park, which is India’s largest extreme adventure destination. Kishore Keswani MD & Founder of Kailash Parbat Hotel was recognized for his Outstanding Contribution in the hotels category. The award for the Best Iconic Hotel in Lonavala was bagged by the Fariyas Resort and The Fern – An Ecotel Hotel was awarded the Best Hotel in Lonavala. Rhythm Hospitality, the innovator of the ResiTel model was recognized as Best Boutique Resort in Lonavala while Mr Madhav Todi Director of Triose Boutique Hotel was awarded the Sustainable Hospitality Award for the championing of green practices including solar energy, zero plastic, rainwater harvesting and waste recycling. Ikshana Resort & Spa won the …

The Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever India Travel Trade Hub—a dedicated online platform created exclusively for the Indian travel trade community. This initiative serves as a comprehensive one-stop resource for travel advisors, tour operators, and MICE planners across India, offering the tools, insights, and support needed to promote and sell Los Angeles more effectively. The hub provides a curated experience tailored to the Indian market, featuring: Ready-to-sell itineraries DMC list Digital brochures and destination videos Trade-exclusive offers including the LA Perks Pass Training modules and webinars Offline events and trainings “India continues to be a key growth market for Los Angeles, and we are thrilled to deepen our engagement with the launch of this dynamic, first-of-its-kind Travel Trade Hub” said Seema Kadam, Regional Director, Los Angeles Tourism India.” This initiative underscores our commitment to supporting our trade partners with simplified tools and insights that make selling Los Angeles easier, more effective, and more rewarding.” This strategic step aligns with Los Angeles Tourism’s ongoing efforts to deepen engagement in India, enhance destination knowledge, and support the trade with best-in-class selling tools. This also aligns perfectly with Los Angeles’ exciting trajectory, as the city prepares to host a series of global, marquee events—including the FIFA World Cup in 2026 and the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2028. Major cultural and infrastructure developments such as the opening of Destination Crenshaw, a celebration of Black art and culture, and the ongoing transformation of LAX airport, are also expected to enhance the visitor experience. Visit the India Trade Hub or the QR code.

The Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI) had the honour of meeting Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Cabinet Minister for Culture & Tourism , to discuss key matters impacting India’s outbound tourism industry. The discussion focused on the TCS (Tax Collected at Source) issue, where the Minister gave his valuable time and attention to the concerns raised by the OTOAI delegation. The meeting reflected the Ministry’s openness to dialogue and the importance of supporting the travel trade sector. OTOAI also extended a formal invitation to the Minister to attend the upcoming OTOAI Moscow Convention 2025 as the Guest of Honour, further strengthening the association’s vision of collaboration with the government. The meeting was represented by OTOAI leadership, including Immediate Past President Riaz Munshi, Vice President Shravan Bhalla, General Secretary Sidharth Khanna, and Executive Committee Member Vineet Gopal. This marks another significant step in OTOAI’s efforts to advocate for India’s growing outbound tourism industry.

In a focused endeavour aimed at bringing back confidence in travel amidst global uncertainty, Thomas Cook (India) and its group company SOTC Travel, have launched ‘TravSure’. This first-of-its-kind, safe travel program reiterates Thomas Cook and SOTC’s customer-first commitment – and delivers a stress-free journey with comprehensive support and financial protection. Emergency situations result in significant disruption to travel plans for customers – including cancellations, charges and rescheduling.  Understanding the multiple pain-points during emergency situations, TravSure has been meaningfully designed to provide customers with 24/7 assistance-support via a dedicated representative. Importantly, the program protects travellers from financial burdens by covering costs that arise during such unforeseen events. With traditional travel insurance policies typically excluding war/war-like and force majeure scenarios, Thomas Cook & SOTC’s TravSure is a bold industry-first initiative, designed to fill that critical gap and financially safeguard their international group tour customers. The program offers protection against travel emergencies such as flight suspensions, trip curtailments due to war/war-like situations, political unrest, riots, airspace closures, etc. TravSure aims at empowering customers: travel with confidence, knowing that you are protected at every step.