Category Archives: Hotels

After a detailed process, the much-awaited de-merger of ITC Hotels finally took place on 6 January. ITC would retain a 40 per cent stake in the hotel business, while the remaining 60% would be distributed to shareholders through rights entitlements. Shareholders will receive one ITC Hotels share for every 10 ITC shares held.

K Syama Raju, President, Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), said, “The future of India’s hospitality sector and tourism is bright, with substantial growth expected in 2025 and beyond. Domestic tourism is projected to grow by 15–20%, driven by govt initiatives. The travel market is on track to reach $125 billion by FY27, with the hotel market set to grow from $32 billion in FY20 to $52 billion.

Highlighting the importance of tourism in boosting Goa’s economy, Rohan Khaunte, Tourism Minister, Goa, said, “Tourism is the heart of Goa’s economy, supporting numerous livelihoods and providing opportunities for our people. This season has been remarkable, with 4 and 5-star hotels nearly at full capacity, showcasing Goa as a top destination for high-spending travellers and charters from established and emerging markets”.

Global music icon Lionel Richie, whose illustrious career has spanned decades, took to the stage at Atlantis, The Palm’s world-famous New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, entertaining guests with his greatest hits and fan favourites on the biggest night of the year. Celebrated for his soulful voice and magnetic stage presence, Richie performed timeless classics including “Hello”, “All Night Long (All Night),” “Easy,” and “Brick House” along with many additional popular hits. Richie’s much-loved 60-minute set which saw him captivate audiences from all corners of the globe with his artistry on the grand piano, brought the house down in the run up to the 2025 countdown. Adding to the night’s exciting atmosphere, Atlantis Dubai lit up the sky with 12,975 fireworks spanning from Atlantis, The Palm to the world’s most ultra-luxury experiential resort, Atlantis The Royal as guests watched in wonder. More than 4,000 guests, including Dubai residents and visitors alike, rang in the new year in dazzling style. Accommodated on a custom-built deck overlooking The Palm Island and twinkling skyline, the legendary event featured a fantastic 30-piece band, free-flowing Champagne, and a lavish buffet, including 50kg of caviar, two tonnes of lobster, 300kg of Alaskan king crab and 6,000 oysters. Atlantis, The Palm also expanded its seating this year to include brand-new VIP Sky Suites, featuring enhanced amenities, award-winning dining options and breathtaking views of the stage and fireworks display to create a truly unforgettable experience.

Expanding its presence in North India, ITC Hotels announced the opening 81-room Welcomhotel in Delhi. The hotel is conveniently located near Delhi Airport. It features modern amenities and expansive event spaces for weddings, social gatherings, and conferences.

Crowne Plaza Kochi announced the appointment of Jerin Jose as Executive Housekeeper. With over 16 years of experience in housekeeping management, Jerin has worked with prestigious brands such as Hilton, Marriott, and The Rain Tree Hotels. His expertise spans quality assurance, inventory control, budgeting, and expense management, alongside strong skills in time management, communication, and team development. Jerin is recognised for achieving a perfect cleanliness score in his career. Dinesh Rai, General Manager, expressed excitement about his appointment, confident that Jerin’s leadership will elevate service standards. We welcome Jerin to the IHG family!    

Echor Samara in Morjim, Goa and Echor Baris Resort in Mussoorie add over 60 keys to the group’s portfolio, strengthening its presence in sought-after destinations. Echor Hotels, a leader in boutique hospitality, has announced the addition of two new properties to its growing portfolio: Echor Samara in Morjim, Goa, and Echor Baris Resort in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. This launch marks Echor’s debut in Uttarakhand and Goa, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to providing luxury stays in both offbeat and iconic destinations. With the addition of these two properties, Echor now manages over 400 keys across India and continues its march toward its ambitious revenue target of ₹100 crore by FY 2027. About the Properties Echor Samara, Morjim, Goa Located just a short walk from the serene Morjim Beach, Echor Samara offers 29 well-appointed rooms, including suites and pool-view accommodations. The property features a sea-view restaurant serving gourmet cuisine, a refreshing swimming pool, and a tranquil spa. Perfect for romantic getaways and family vacations, this boutique haven combines the vibrant energy of Goa with the luxury of a premium retreat. Echor Baris Resort, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand Situated amidst the scenic greenery of Mussoorie, Echor Baris Resort introduces 34 luxury rooms offering breathtaking jungle and Doon Valley views. The resort features private sit-out areas, a family-friendly children’s play zone, and a charming lawn for picnics and outdoor activities. Guests can savour diverse culinary experiences at the in-house restaurant, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. “We are thrilled to announce the addition of two incredible properties to the Echor Group – Echor Baris Resort in Mussoorie, our first property in Uttarakhand, and Echor Samara in Morjim, our debut in the Goa market,” said …

HRAWI advises members on responsible festive season practices The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI has issued a comprehensive advisory for its members to ensure smooth and lawful operations during the upcoming festive season. The guidelines, aimed at maintaining safety, compliance and guest satisfaction, encompass specifics including operational timings, promoting responsible bar tending and drinking, staff contribution transparency and adherence to noise and music regulations. Members are reminded to comply with locally permitted hours and secure necessary licenses for special events; strict age restrictions for alcohol consumption through display of appropriate signage and initiatives like valet and ride-hailing services to deter drink-and-drive incidents. The advisory also instructs F&B establishments to adhere to permissible decibel levels and enforce music cut-off times and to obtain permissions for live events in advance. HRAWI thanks the Maharashtra Government for allowing hotel and restaurant establishments in the State to operate till 5 am on the 31st of December 2024. “Our goal is to ensure a festive season that is enjoyable for patrons while being compliant with local laws. Adhering to these guidelines will promote goodwill and maintain the integrity of the hospitality industry. Collaboration with local authorities is essential to preventing incidents and promoting safety during the New Year’s Eve celebrations. We urge our members to proactively support initiatives like responsible bar tending and drinking including the right to refusal; provision of valet services and, following music and noise regulations,” says Pradeep Shetty, Spokesperson, HRAWI. HRAWI has further advised members to ensure service charges to be capped at 10 per cent, transparently communicated and fairly distributed among staff. The measure aims to safeguard customer trust and prevent any disputes. The advisory also highlights …

According to a report by CRISIL Ratings, branded hotels are expected to post double-digit revenue growth of 13-14% this fiscal and 11-12% in the next, fuelled by demand outpacing supply. While domestic leisure and business travel will continue to be the primary demand drivers, growing traction in the MICE segment and pickup in foreign tourist arrivals will provide an additional fillip.

In a significant change for the hospitality sector, the GST Council has decided to allow high-end hotels to choose between two indirect tax rates for restaurant services provided on their premises. Starting from 1 April 2025, such hotels will have the option to choose between two GST rates: 5% without Input Tax Credit (ITC) or 18% with ITC.