Aumentar Hospitality Alliance LLP, a boutique hospitality consulting firm, commenced operations in early 2025. Founded by Shaista Khan and Vinita Khar, the company works alongside hotels and travel brands to strengthen their market presence through a thoughtful mix of storytelling, positioning, sales, marketing, and business development strategies. The word “Aumentar” (Spanish for amplify) reflects the firm’s vision — to help destinations and hospitality brands share their stories more meaningfully by combining creativity with commercially effective solutions. With years of collective experience in hospitality, the co-founders bring complementary expertise: ●          Shaista Khan has held key leadership roles with The Park Hotels (Regional Sales Office), Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and later as Head of Outbound Sales for Cinnamon Hotels from India. Over her career, she has built strong and lasting relationships within the travel trade networks. ●          Vinita Khar brings a strong background in sales, distribution, and strategic marketing, equipping hotels with practical and sustainable tools for growth. She began her career with Taj Hotels, later worked with Hyatt Hotels Corporation across Mumbai, Goa, and Pune, and went on to become Director of Sales & Marketing at the pre-opening of Conrad Pune. Aumentar Hospitality Alliance is grateful to have already earned the trust of a diverse portfolio of partners across the luxury and lifestyle segments, including: ●          Bürgenstock Hotel and Alpine Spa, Switzerland (India market representation – luxury) ●          Tamara Hotels (West India representation – luxury) ●          Mövenpick Sukhumvit 15, Bangkok (lifestyle) ●          Saj Hotels Ltd. (strategy management) ●          Time Hotels, Media One, and Studio One, Dubai (India market distribution) Shaista Khan and Vinita Khar, Co-Founders of Aumentar Hospitality Alliance LLP said, “Hospitality today requires more than visibility — …

Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Rajashekar P as the new Director of Revenue. With an extensive career spanning over a decade in revenue management, Mr. Rajashekar brings a wealth of expertise from leading hospitality brands including Park Hyatt, Hilton, Accor, Radisson Blu, and Le Meridien. Throughout his career, he has successfully driven strategic revenue initiatives, system integrations, and business growth across diverse markets. A results-driven leader, he has consistently delivered exceptional performance in MPI, ARI, and RGI metrics, alongside spearheading system transitions like Hyatt PRO and EMMA. His proven ability to optimize demand generation and enhance financial outcomes makes him a strong addition to the leadership team. At Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla, Mr. Rajashekar will be instrumental in shaping revenue strategies, forecasting, and maximizing yield opportunities to further strengthen the hotel’s market positioning. Sharing his views on the appointment, Mr. Ritesh Sharma, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Rajashekar to our leadership team. His extensive expertise and proven track record in revenue management will play a pivotal role in driving our growth strategy and further positioning Crowne Plaza Okhla as a market leader in the region.”

Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline, announced the appointment of Mr. Naarayan T V as its Chief Marketing Officer, effective August 29, 2025. In this role, he will oversee the airline’s marketing, corporate communications & ESG, customer experience, eCommerce, customer loyalty, and partnerships functions. He will also serve as a member of Akasa’s Executive Committee. The appointment is aligned with Akasa Air’s accelerated growth journey as it strengthens its brand and customer proposition while progressing towards its vision of becoming one of the top 30 airlines globally by the turn of this decade. With over two decades of cross-industry experience spanning eCommerce, fintech, banking, D2C broking, and global consumer brands, Naarayan brings to Akasa Air a strong blend of strategic vision, digital-first expertise, and customer-centric leadership. He has consistently played a transformative role in shaping leading global and Indian brands, with a body of work that spans marketing communication, digital marketing, market research, product design, user experience, acquisition, sponsorships and IPs, brand building, creative strategy, content marketing, and large-scale product launch campaigns across ATL and BTL platforms. Commenting on the appointment, Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO, Akasa Air, said, “At Akasa Air, we are committed to building a world-class airline powered by our value-driven and service-oriented culture. As we continue to scale, the role of marketing and customer experience will be pivotal in strengthening the Akasa brand and deepening customer trust. Naarayan brings with him a global perspective, proven expertise in transforming brands, and the ability to blend creativity with data-driven insights. His leadership will play an instrumental role in shaping Akasa’s next phase of growth.” Naarayan T V, Chief Marketing Officer, Akasa Air, added, “I believe great marketing is a …

Sri Lanka Tourism has officially opened its doors for destination weddings, extending a warm invitation to Indian couples and families to celebrate their special day in one of the world’s most breathtaking locations. To mark this, Sri Lanka Tourism successfully concluded a series of multi-city luxury wedding shows across India, positioning the island as a premier choice for couples seeking unforgettable wedding experiences. The showcases brought together leading Sri Lankan hotels, resorts, heritage venues, and wedding service providers with top Indian wedding planners, travel agents, and media representatives. Each event offered exclusive networking sessions, immersive experiences, and tailor-made wedding concepts—demonstrating Sri Lanka’s unmatched ability to host both traditional Indian ceremonies and contemporary luxury celebrations. The Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau commented: “Sri Lanka is now open for destination weddings, and we invite India to come celebrate love with us. The overwhelming response across India reaffirmed our belief that Sri Lanka holds a special place in the hearts of Indian couples. From pristine beaches and tea garden retreats to colonial mansions and heritage forts, the island offers everything needed to create weddings that are truly unforgettable.” Why Choose Sri Lanka for Your Wedding? Diverse Venues: From barefoot beach vows and serene garden ceremonies to regal celebrations in historic forts or luxury resorts. Proximity & Easy Access: Short flights from major Indian cities and hassle-free visa processes for guests. Luxury & Affordability: Packages tailored for both grand weddings and intimate boutique celebrations. Expertise You Can Trust: World-class hospitality, wedding planners, and catering teams well-versed in Indian traditions. Unique Experiences: Cultural welcomes, VIP facilitation, airport branding, police escorts, and customs support for décor and production—ensuring a seamless journey. Strong Industry …

Developed within the 3,000-acre Vantara Project, the retreat represents a new standard for sustainable, white-label luxury wellness in India ELE|NA proudly introduces Minerals by ELE|NA, the brand’s first white-label spa and wellness retreat, an exquisite embodiment of rejuvenation, sustainability, and refined elegance. Nestled within Vantara Niwas in Jamnagar, the retreat is part of the visionary Vantara Project, a 3,000-acre transformation within Reliance’s Green Belt, spearheaded by the Ambani family. Designed to harmonise luxury hospitality with environmental stewardship and community well-being, this collaboration marks ELE|NA’s debut in India, redefining the future of white-label luxury wellness. Heidi Grimwood, Senior Vice President, ELE|NA said, “With Minerals by ELE|NA, our vision was to create a sanctuary that celebrates India’s rich wellness heritage while embracing a forward-thinking approach to sustainability. Our collaboration with Vantara Niwas brings this philosophy to life, inviting guests to reconnect with nature, rediscover balance, and experience a new era of purposeful wellness luxury. Together, we have crafted a haven where serenity and sustainability exist in perfect harmony.” Vantara Niwas: The Perfect Backdrop Vantara Niwas has already earned recognition as one of Jamnagar’s most esteemed destinations, renowned for its refined hospitality, exquisite services, and state-of-the-art amenities. Near the Vantara Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre, the property reflects a balance between indulgent luxury and purposeful living. Its serene location within the Reliance Jamnagar Complex offers an oasis for guests who value privacy, comfort, and meaningful connection to nature. Luxury Meets Wellness by ELE|NA At Minerals by ELE|NA, wellness is elevated into a bespoke journey. Guests can experience an array of therapies that blend signature ELE|NA therapies with advanced innovations in holistic health, all curated under the philosophy of Wellness Your Way™. Every element …

IFBA announces upcoming report to combat misinformation and offer evidence-based insights on palm oil, in partnership with NIFTEM-K and IHM-Delhi In a powerful demonstration of cross-sector collaboration, the Ind Food and Beverage Association (IFBA) marked World Food Day 2025 with a high-impact event focused on promoting food literacy and combating misinformation. Hosted in partnership with the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM-Kundli) and the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering and Nutrition (IHM-Delhi), the event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, food scientists, and academia to address the urgent need for science-backed food education in an era dominated by conflicting narratives and digital misinformation. Sh. Avinash Joshi, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, said, “In today’s fast-paced world, processed foods offer unmatched convenience be it ready-to-eat meals, frozen snacks, or canned foods, helping individuals manage their time and nutritional needs effectively. However, despite the sector’s vital contribution to food safety and accessibility, public perception is often influenced by misinformation and media-driven myths”. Keeping in view of this, the Ministry has recently come out with a publication of FAQs on Processed Foods with special focus on Ultra Processed Foods (UPFs)/ High Fat, Salt and Sugar (HFSS) Foods to help disseminate scientific based knowledge and evidence on the subject.  A central highlight was the announcement of an upcoming IFBA report aimed at debunking persistent myths surrounding palm oil, one of the most misunderstood ingredients in the global food supply chain. The report will present evidence-based insights into palm oil’s role in nutrition, sustainability, and food manufacturing, with the goal of supporting more informed consumer choices and policy decisions. Commenting on the occasion, Sh. Satyen Kumar Panda, ED (Regulatory Compliance) and Advisor …

On the occasion of World Food Day, the Ind Food and Beverage Association (IFBA), in partnership with the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM-Kundli) and the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering and Nutrition (IHM-Delhi), is launching a unique initiative that will bring together stakeholders from across the food ecosystem, including industry leaders, regulators, researchers, and academia. With rising concerns around food safety, nutrition security, and the environmental impact of food systems, the global food and beverage (F&B) industry is at a pivotal juncture. As consumer awareness grows and regulatory frameworks evolve, there is a pressing need for integrated efforts that bridge policy, innovation, and public education. Recognising this, key institutions across industry, academia, and regulators are coming together to facilitate informed dialogue and collaborative action. The event seeks to debunk pervasive myths surrounding food choices, often shaped by misinformation rather than rigorous science, specifically addressing critical concerns around palm oil, processed and packaged foods, A1/A2 ghee varieties, and protein supplements, empowering consumers with clear, science-backed information to make informed decisions. Talking about this initiative, Dr. H.S. Oberoi, Director, NIFTEM-K, Mr. Deepak Jolly, Chairperson at IFBA, Mr. Kamal Kant Pant, Principal & Secretary, IHM Delhi, in a joint statement said, “We are pleased to come together to celebrate World Food Day, not only by creating a right platform for discussion and awareness around food safety and nutrition but also by launching an exciting ‘Healthy Snacking’ contest, supported by the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations.” Adding a youth-centric dimension, IHM-Delhi and NIFTEM-K will participate in a ‘Healthy Snacking’ contest, showcasing inventive recipes that deliver sensory appeal and nutritional excellence. Judged by culinary luminaries Mr. Sudhir Sibal, (Ambassador to World Chefs Without Borders), …

Taiwan is rapidly establishing itself as a premier global culinary destination, drawing attention for its unique fusion of traditional flavours, modern innovation, and international influences. A key reflection of this culinary evolution is the growing presence of the MICHELIN Guide Taiwan, whose latest edition highlights the breadth and depth of Taiwan’s gastronomic landscape. The 2025 edition of the MICHELIN Guide Taiwan, now in its eighth year, showcases an impressive 419 establishments across the Starred, Bib Gourmand, and Selected categories, a significant increase from 343 in 2024. The Guide now spans seven cities, with New Taipei City (36), Hsinchu County (21), and Hsinchu City (22) joining Taipei (157), Taichung (63), Tainan (61), and Kaohsiung (59) in the prestigious selection. This expansion underscores both Taiwan’s deep-rooted food heritage and its continued rise as a sought-after travel destination. At the heart of this growth is Taiwan’s culinary DNA, a rich tradition dating back thousands of years, shaped by indigenous influences, global exchanges, and an open, multicultural society. Today, Taiwan’s food culture is a dynamic mix of authentic local fare, global cuisines, and innovative fusion that caters to every palate. This year’s selection includes 53 MICHELIN Starred restaurants, with 8 newly awarded One MICHELIN Stars and 3 promoted to Two MICHELIN Stars. One more establishment joins the ranks of those recognized with a MICHELIN Green Star, bringing the total to 7 restaurants celebrated for their sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Highlighting Taiwan’s potential as a food-forward tourism destination, Paul Shih, Director – Singapore Office, Taiwan Tourism Administration, said, “With a food identity deeply rooted in warm hospitality and tradition, Taiwan is fast emerging as one of the culinary capitals of the world. The latest MICHELIN …

Madhya Pradesh to Emerge as a World-Class Tourism Destination – Minister Shri Lodhi Organized by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board from 11th to 13th October in Bhopal Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Madhya Pradesh is set to establish itself as a world-class tourism destination with the organization of the Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart (MPTM) 2025 from 11th to 13th October 2025 at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre, Bhopal. The event will bring together domestic and international buyers, sellers, travel agents, film representatives, and key stakeholders from across the tourism sector on a single platform. Organized by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, this three-day event will host over 700 participants, including more than 80 foreign tour operators from 27 countries, 150 domestic tour operators, 355 sellers, film representatives, and media professionals. It will be India’s largest state-level travel mart, positioning Madhya Pradesh on the global map as the “Heart of Incredible India.” Minister of State for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments, Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, stated that in collaboration with FICCI this will be one of the largest state-level travel marts in the country. It will connect the state’s hoteliers, travel and tour operators, homestay owners, and other tourism stakeholders with prominent domestic and international buyers, including major hoteliers and tour operators. This initiative will not only increase tourist inflow into Madhya Pradesh but will also open new avenues of economic growth in the tourism sector and create local employment opportunities. The event will provide a platform for investment, partnerships, and collaborations in tourism, hospitality, film, wedding, and MICE sectors. Over 3,000 B2B meetings will be held during the mart, making it …

Travel and Food Network (TFN), a global digital media and entertainment brand headquartered in India, today announced the launch of its AI Trip Planner, the country’s first AI-driven holiday planning platform by any Indian publisher. The platform, live on www.tfninternational.com, combines advanced artificial intelligence with TFN’s editorial expertise to generate hyper-personalized itineraries, and  closing the loop by providing expert assistance to complete the booking of the personalized itinerary, through a curated network of travel partners. The launch aligns with World Tourism Day’s call for a Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism. Marking a pivotal step where AI becomes the traveler’s compass, making journeys smarter, more personal, and future-ready. For years, TFN has inspired a discerning audience through curated travel and food stories, guides, and destination insights. Its collaborations with domestic and international tourism boards have positioned it as a trusted voice in the travel ecosystem. Speaking on the launch, Sanjay Dhar, Founder & CEO of Travel and Food Network, said: “The AI Trip Planner represents a natural evolution for TFN; from storytelling to solutioning. By harnessing machine learning and dynamic content modeling, we can deliver itineraries that reflect not just where travelers want to go, but how they want to experience it. It’s a fusion of editorial curation, data-driven intelligence, and seamless commerce, designed to elevate how Indian travelers plan and book holidays.” Ritika Basu, Co-Founder & Chief Revenue Officer, Travel and Food Network, added: “What sets this apart is its precision and scalability. The AI dynamically adapts recommendations based on user profiles, seasonal trends, and real-time availability, creating journeys as unique as the traveler themselves. For advertisers, tourism boards, and partners, it opens new pathways for targeted …