BWH July-August 2022

VISTARA

“After nearly two years of tirelessly navigating one of the On domestic front, Vistara has launched Coimbatore as the
worst crises ever faced by the industry, Indian aviation is showing 31st domestic destination, connecting it with Delhi, Mumbai and
signs of strong recovery with consistent upswing in demand for, Bengaluru, and have introduced several new routes like Mumbai-
both, domestic and international travel. As per IATA forecasts, India Srinagar, Bengaluru-Indore, Mumbai-Indore, Mumbai-Bhubaneswar,
is on course to become the third largest aviation market globally and Mumbai-Dehradun, Mumbai-Ahmedabad, Bengaluru-Pune etc.
is expected to overtake the UK to become the third largest air
passenger (international and domestic) market by 2024. For a “While we hope the demand continues to grow, it is
country with a population of over 1.3 billion and less than 150 million imperative to note that the industry has entered the weakest
passengers travelling by air every year, the potential of the Indian quarter (historically) for domestic operations ie July to September,
aviation market is immense. With airlines constantly evolving their and we will have to see how the market performs. We are focussed
offerings using digital tools, backed by robust IT infrastructure, on increasing frequencies where we already fly to and looking at
customers can look forward to a rapid evolution of the industry in the other commercially viable destinations around the world. We
times to come,” observes Rajawat. remain committed to densifying our domestic network while
introducing new routes and viable destinations to expand our
For Vistara, the demand has been very encouraging. In presence across the country,” he says.
fact, it has scaled up frequencies on several international routes,
including Delhi-London, Mumbai-Singapore, Delhi-Singapore and Sharing his views on increasing the capacity of airport
Delhi-Bangkok to daily flights. “We are currently operating flights infrastructure to meet the growing demand for air travel in India, he
to / from nine international destinations including Paris, Frankfurt, opines, “Airlines, airports and all key stakeholders in the aviation
London, Kathmandu, Singapore, Dubai, Dhaka, Male and ecosystem need to come together and think about ways to effectively
Bangkok. We have started operations between Mumbai and manage the growing demand and evolving needs of travellers in view
Jeddah and have bolstered connectivity to Thailand with 5x weekly of the market’s potential. There is also a need to rapidly invest in
flights from Mumbai,” he informs. modern IT infrastructure across the aviation ecosystem, to not just
support opening of new, future-ready airports, but also to enhance

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existing airports in the country. Moving ahead, the aviation industry Dreamliner on long-haul routes, which are known for their many
needs to collectively find innovative solutions and look at growth passenger-centric features. “Our Airbus A321neo, on the medium/
plans, systems, processes, etc., with a fresh perspective.” short-haul routes, have also been getting a lot of appreciation from
our customers. Vistara’s Business Class cabin products are
Rajawat says that their employees are their most important unmatched within the domestic market and are at par with some of
assets. “At Vistara, we have always endeavoured to build a sense of the biggest airlines around the world,” he says, adding that Vistara is
community, team spirit and ownership through consistent also the only Indian airline to offer Premium Economy, a product that
communication to the employees, keeping our key tenets of being has gained prominence through the pandemic as customers
Open & Transparent, Performance-driven, Innovative & Agile and increasingly want more convenience and space when travelling.
Customer-centric at the centre of all things. From the very beginning,
we have tried to focus on doing the basics right which include The experience is further enhanced by cutting-edge inflight
developing employee friendly policies, ensuring accessibility to entertainment system – Vistara World – which enables wireless
leadership, clear communication, a safe work environment, etc. We streaming on personal mobile devices, tablets etc; wi-fi connectivity
try to stay abreast with the entire workforce, to understand their on-board (on long-haul international routes); delectable inflight
requirements, and meet their expectations as much as possible. For dining experience complemented with world-class service
instance, we have a process to have constant dialogues with standards, he informs.
employees about their career aspirations and try to provide relevant
opportunities for upskilling and reskilling,” he says. “Furthermore, India’s fastest rewarding frequent flyer
programme, Club Vistara, makes the experience more exciting. With
Elaborating on the same, Rajawat continues, “Many a customer-centric approach, we are constantly looking to find new
employee-centric initiatives have played a key role in ensuring ways to delight our customers and enhance their experience on-
constant engagement, such as digitalisation and automation of key board. We have always tried to differentiate ourselves in the market
processes like regular monthly HR connects, a digital L&D calendar, through intuitively thoughtful offerings like serving freshly brewed
internal job posting programme, objective appraisals, quarterly R&R Starbucks coffee at 35,000 ft, mood lighting, plush leather seats and
events, etc. Development and continuous growth of our employees more. We are continuously taking feedback from our crew and
are taken very seriously at Vistara and we incessantly work towards customers to keep enhancing our offerings and ensuring customer
cultivating a collaborative framework to cohesively achieve and delight. We are the first Indian airline to offer special ‘wellness
celebrate goals. Vistara offers an enabling culture that helps its focussed’ IFE content in association with Shyft. We have also
employees to grow with the organisation.” partnered with the home-grown luxury brand, Forest Essentials to
thoughtfully curate amenity kits for business class fliers on long haul
In terms of product and service attributes, Vistara offer the flights starting August 1, 2022,” shares Rajawat. n
experience of flying state-of-the-art aircraft including Boeing 787-9

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YES

TBORGEEATKHETRHEWCEHACIANN

WEMAARSFKACE

KEEP YOUR DISTANCE

SAHNAITNDIZSE

TRAVEL

QATAR: ALL SET
FOR THE KICK-OFF

Qanat Quartier

WITH FIFA 2022 WORLD CUP ROUND THE CORNER,
QATAR HAS UPPED ITS GAME AS A SPORTS
TOURISM DESTINATION

BY BULBUL DHAWAN The resort, set to open later this year, is a state-of-the-art
property located along the beach in Fuwairit, a coastal village that ticks
WHITE SAND and clear blue expansive water set the perfect tone to all the boxes for an ideal kitesurfing location – powder-soft sand,
watch some kite-surfers display their skill as Qatar Tourism and Global suitable ocean water and consistent wind conditions. Perhaps that is
Kitesports Association (GKA) signed an agreement making Qatar the reason the Kite World Tour opening as well as finals are set to be
Tourism the official tourism partner of GKA with the announcement of hosted by the Middle-Eastern country next year.
the opening of Fuwairit Kite Beach. At the site of the upcoming resort,
about an hour north of Doha, amid hot winds and colourful beach At the launch, Al Baker said the country was looking to place
décor, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief itself as one of the main kitesurfing destinations, especially as
Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker expresses how kitesurfing is now kitesurfing has been practiced as a sport in Qatar for three decades,
included in the long list of sports that the country is set to support. and due to the fact that the kitesurfing season is one of the longest, if
not the longest, in Qatar out of the entire world. While the launch of the
resort marked the commitment of Qatar towards kitesurfing, it forms

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QATAR

QATAR IS EXPECTING TO HOST
AN ESTIMATED ONE MILLION

VISITORS DURING FIFA WORLD
CUP 2022

National Museum
of Qatar

Reception at Fuwairit Souq Waqif
Kite Beach Resort

only one part of country’s long-term strategy of positioning itself as a post-FIFA 2022 into several community units like a school and a health
sports tourism destination. Qatar is hoping to welcome over six million clinic apart from using it for housing and shops. Stadium 974, built
tourists every year by 2030, an ambitious plan at the centre of which from recycled shipping containers and modular steel, is the first fully
lies the strategy to host many major sporting tournaments. demountable stadium in FIFA World Cup history. It will be dismantled
completely after the event and its component parts will be donated by
FIFA PREPARATIONS Qatar to countries minus sporting infrastructure. The upper stands of
For FIFA World Cup 2022 in November, the country is upping the Al Thumama Stadium will be converted into a boutique hotel with 50
number of hotels to accommodate the estimated million visitors – per cent seating to be donated to other countries. The Al Bayt Stadium
about 35 per cent of Qatar’s population– who will visit the country will also be refurbished to include a branch of Aspetar sports hospital,
during the tournament. Moreover, it has also created a portfolio of a shopping centre and a five-star hotel.
eight sustainable stadiums to host the event, with seating capacity
ranging from 40,000 each at Khalifa International Stadium, Al Janoub In fact, Qatar 2022 is set to be the first carbon-neutral FIFA
Stadium, Stadium 974 and Al Thumama Stadium to 80,000 at Lusail World Cup in the world. The stadiums will be used round-the-year
Stadium. post the tournament, and so, an outdoor cooling technology has been
developed by the country to ensure climate control. As per estimates,
STAYING TRUE TO SUSTAINABILITY the technology is 40 per cent more sustainable than existing
The stadiums are a mark of Qatari innovation. While the Khalifa techniques. Qatar is also making use of recycled water from the
International Stadium at the heart of the Aspire Zone has been given a stadiums to irrigate new green spaces so much so that a 50,000 sq m
fresh facade, Lusail Stadium is a new addition and will be repurposed of park area will surround the Al Thumama Stadium.

But football is not the only sport the Gulf country has its eyes

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TRAVEL

Msheireb Downtown 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic
Doha Tram and Sports Museum

Pool at Fuwairit Aerial view of Qatar
Kite Beach Resort

on. Apart from lending support to kitesurfing, Qatar will be hosting including a football display where they can try to score a goal against
Formula 1 Grand Prix in 2023 on a 10-year contract as well as the an automated goalkeeper. To cater to visitors looking for an adrenalin
annual ATP and WTA tennis tournaments. rush, Qatar launched one of the largest theme parks – Desert Falls
Water & Adventure Park – containing 28 slides and rides last year. In
SETTING ITSELF APART fact, Doha is home to the tallest indoor rollercoaster in the world, an
Qatar is aiming to distinguish itself as an all-rounder sports tourism attraction which sits in the Quest Doha Theme Park.
destination. For this reason, the country has developed an impressive
portfolio of attractions targetting sports enthusiasts that visit the The upcoming 2 lakh sq m Doha Winter Wonderland, with its
country for any of the events. The 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports seafront chalets, 50 rides, restaurants and festival games, is a sister
Museum narrate the story of the evolution of sports, disseminating attraction of the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, London. It will be
information about national and international history and heritage of situated near Lusail City, to the north of Doha, and will allow guests to
sport. It has a library where visitors can find a catalogue of books and enjoy and relax on the beach even during winters. The Outpost Al
journals related to sports. It also has displays of key sportspeople Barari, comprising 21 luxury lodges with private pools, aims to
including Indian legends like MC Mary Kom and Sachin Tendulkar. encourage guests to get away from urban life and take part in activities
like hot ballooning and desert walks. Qatar’s first Entertainment Island,
The key attractions at the museum, however, are Lionel Messi’s Qetaifan Island North, will feature a water park with 36 rides apart from
2021 Ballon d’Or, Michael Schumaker’s car from 2000 in which he floating hotels and beach clubs.
won the Formula 1 championship for Ferrari and Muhammad Ali’s
boxing gloves from his 1964 match. The museum has added interactive The country is also home to the Doha Golf Club, an 18-hole
components that encourage visitors to become more physically active, championship course, containing eight lakes meant for passionate
golfers. For horse-riders and lovers of equestrian sports, Qatar Racing

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QATAR

Desert Falls

and Equestrian Club is the place to be, with its racecourse containing mouth-watering options such as Burrata Affumicata, Melanzane alla
1,800 m of turf track and 1,400 m of sand track. Qatar then has Al Parmigiana, Caesar Salad al Granchio, Zuppa di Pomodoro and
Shahaniya Camel Race Track supporting the multi-million-dollar sport Stracciatella, Lasagna Bolognese and Spaghetti al Pomo-D’oro.
which is a part of the Qatari culture.
WHEN IN DOHA
EATING TO HEART’S CONTENT For those who are always on the quest for knowledge and learning,
Qatar is also promoting its diverse gastronomy that is at par with the National Museum of Qatar is a must-visit. Built around the Old Amiri
offerings in Dubai. Having both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options Palace in the shape of a desert rose, it traces Qatar’s history from the
in umpteen, food-lovers are in for a treat. STK steakhouse, on the 23rd hardships of the life in the era of pearl diving to the turnaround that
floor of The Ritz-Carlton Doha, is a place where the staff is highly came with oil. Household items from centuries ago and pearls of all
passionate about food and how they serve it. Burrata, Fish Tacos, STK kinds like The Pearl Carpet of Baroda containing 15 million pearls are
Fish and Chips and Homemade Potato Gnocchi are delicacies to try on display as they narrate the story of the common man and the way
with Cinnamon Churros serving as the perfect dessert. their lives changed.

Bayt El Talleh, Katara Cultural Village is a Levantine cuisine While on vacation, relaxation is a must and that is what Dhow
restaurant where the stunning view of Katara south hills from the Cruise offers. Guests can get onboard a traditional dhow, inspired by
outdoor seating perfectly complements the Lebanese and Middle- the vessels historically used for fishing, pearl diving or trading. The
Eastern spread. Beetroot Salad, Hommous, Potato Kubbeh and cruises leisurely allow guests to sit and enjoy the view, read or even
Falafel Palestinian are great picks to enjoy. II Galante at The Banyan blast out music during the carefree journey. As people look to travel
Tree in Doha is a treat right out of Italy. The restaurant has many and explore the world like never before, Qatar is the place to be. n

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PROPERTY REVIEW

SAii Laguna
Phuket

SAII UNRAVELS UPPER
CRUST THAI HOSPITALITY

BY BHUVANESH KHANNA

THERE IS something that the Far East offers to the world, and A private 800-m beach, the Andaman Sea and 70 acres of
makes it their own trademark offering. If one was to guess, it is in coconut palm plantations encompass the SAii Phi Phi Island
their DNA. They are, as a general rule, soft, polite, gentle and utterly Village Resort. Nestled amid Nature are 189 traditional Thai-style
welcoming people with their smiles and mannerisms, barring the bungalows and 12 exclusive hillside pool villas that provide guests
exceptions, of course. The area has many good locations so far as access to unparalleled rejuvenation and relaxation. Located close
travel, tourism, hospitality and F&B are concerned. by is the SAii Laguna Phuket, providing views either of the
Andaman Sea or the lagoon.
That said, let us get down to Phuket, Phi Phi Island and SAii
in Thailand. It takes a lot more than just good experience and team “When it comes to accommodation, you have your
to deliver and - hand on heart - SAii Laguna Phuket and SAii Phi Phi infrastructure – the hardware. But what is more important for us
Island Village deliver on sure footing with some style. Under the able is the software, that is how we interact with our guests. A lot
charge of their affable and experienced Belgian skipper, the Cluster has changed post-Covid19. People, now, are not just looking
General Manager Bart Callens, the twin resorts enthrall guests for a room or a restaurant, but an experience. And this is where
throughout their stay – be it food, outdoors, activities, rooms and we are very different from other hotels – translating the overall
the works. Resorts are where the guests are 24x7 through their Thai hospitality into a lifestyle experience,” says Bart Callens,
stay, so the entire team better have their best plans and acts going, Cluster General Manager, SAii Phi Phi Island Village and SAii
and sure enough, they do. The culinary team, led by in-house Laguna Phuket.
Suisse, 6-feet-3-or-so Chef Roberto Conrad, does a great job of
what is his vocation: F&B. Or take for that matter, the genial Thai These are two of the four resorts that the SAii Group has in
GM at the SAii Phi Phi Island Village, Chao Treenawongse. Twenty- Thailand, the remaining two being SAii Koh Samui Choengmon
two years in his job in the same island resort, he knows the busy and Santiburi Koh Samui. Thailand itself is a major source market
asset and island like no one else and does a pretty good job of it. for these two resorts. Russia, the UK, India, continental Europe,
Australia, Middle East and China are also important (this is

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SAII LAGUNA PHUKET AND SAII PHI PHI ISLAND VILLAGE

NESTLED AMID NATURE, Api Restaurant & Bar,
SAII LAGUNA PHUKET SAii Phi Phi Island Village
AND SAII PHI PHI ISLAND
VILLAGE OFFER GUESTS
ACCESS TO INCOMPARABLE
REJUVENATION AND
RELAXATION OPTIONS

Kayaking in the sea in front
of SAii Laguna Phuket

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PROPERTY REVIEW

SAii Laguna
Phuket at sunset

irrelevent). “It’s interesting because these change over seasons. built around Nature, culture, wellness and adventure, with a
Some source markets are seasonal while some remain robust generous helping of creature comforts and fine cuisine. Each
throughout the year,” explains Callens. property boasts its own distinctive, destination-sensitive designs
and unique signatures while also providing consistency, thanks
SAii is a brand of S Hotels & Resorts, a subsidiary of to a well-defined brand philosophy and a service culture that
Singha Estate Public Company Limited, the makers of the world- focusses on exceptional guest experiences backed up by Thai-
famous Singha Beer. It is a new era Thai-inspired personalised inspired hospitality and global quality standards.
hospitality brand that caters to upscale travellers with an
independent spirit. The Group offers guests a portfolio of 38 Your first stop when doing Phuket and Phi Phi Islands in the
hotels with a total of 4,522 keys in top destinations such as The Krabi district of Thailand has to be a short stay in Phuket after a
Republic of Maldives, The Republic of Fiji, The Republic of flight because the 60 to 75-minute speedboat ride takes longer
Mauritius, The United Kingdom and Thailand, all of which are than just that as you get to the marina at the edge of Phuket from
attracting diverse numbers of tourists worldwide and provides where your speedboat departs and arrives.
guests with the opportunity to experience the best destinations
from a unique perspective while enjoying world-class facilities ENJOYING THE LAGOON AT PHUKET
and tailored services. S Hotels & Resorts’ properties are located A mere 25-minute drive from the Phuket International Airport takes
in attractive, unspoiled locales to provide an exclusive playground you to SAii Laguna Phuket. Spread across four floors, the resort

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SAII LAGUNA PHUKET AND SAII PHI PHI ISLAND VILLAGE

Miss Olive Oyl, SAii MORE THAN
Laguna Phuket THE STAY
Lobby level, SAii
Laguna Phuket OR ROOMS,
PEOPLE

ARE NOW
LOOKING FOR

EXPERIENCE
AND SO HOW
WE INTERACT
WITH GUESTS
IS IMPORTANT

BART CALLENS

CLUSTER GM, SAII PHI
PHI ISLAND VILLAGE AND

SAII LAGUNA PHUKET

boasts of 255 keys divided among rooms providing the view of the setting with dishes from Italian, Spanish and Lebanese cuisines.
sea and the lagoon. Like its sister resort, SAii Laguna Phuket has Then we have Locavore where we, at present, serve breakfast
several activities to keep the guests entertained. with an international spread. We also have bean/Co Café in the
lobby for light snacks and more interesting drinks in the evening,”
Three swimming pools and a 55-m water slide take care of shares Callens.
those who are looking for some time to soak in the water. A fitness
centre, an international tennis academy (with indoor and outdoor SAii Laguna Phuket has a dedicated 1,900 sq m space for
courts), badminton and squash courts are also available for sports holding meetings and events, weddings and conferences. A total
and fitness enthusiasts. of nine venues are available at the resort of which three meeting
rooms and pre-conference areas are at the lobby level. Then there
The resort also has facilities to keep the tiny tots entertained is a standalone meeting and events centre besides multiple
with Mafeung and Mafai’s Junior Beach Club and camp and a breakout rooms.
children’s programme. Guests also have the option of availing
babysitting services for a little extra. JETTING OFF TO PHI PHI ISLANDS
This sail on a good day when the sea is quiet and not choppy is
Four restaurants make up the food and beverage offerings scenic, enjoyable and a lot of fun. On turbulent days, guests can
at the resort. “Starting at the beach, we have Mr Tomyam, which see the water jumping into the speedboats. Each of the two makes
has a combination of Italian and Thai food. Miss Olive Oyl is
unique because this is where we offer more of a Mediterranean

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PROPERTY REVIEW

Infinity pool, SAii Phi Club Lounge, SAii
Phi Island Village Laguna Phuket
Oceanview Hillside
Pool Villa, Phi Phi PHI PHI, ALONG WITH THE
Deluxe Primium CARIBBEAN, THE GREAT
Bungalow, Phi Phi BARRIER REEF AND RED SEA,
IS PART OF THE BIG FOUR
OF THE WORLD IN TERMS OF
RARE WONDERS OF NATURE

for its own unique experiences and the journey remains memorable
nonetheless. Just like these speedboats do, let us head over to
the scenic SAii Phi Phi Island Village and explore the wonder.
The first impression of the SAii Phi Phi Island Village is a luxury
resort boat that picks up the guests from the marina in Phuket or
Krabi. From that point itself, the top-notch hospitality of the resort
sets in.

SAii Phi Phi Island Village, a world of its own, has much
to offer for guests staying there. Apart from eight different
categories of rooms across suites, bungalows and villas to
choose from, the resort has two large swimming pools to lounge
and Lèn Forest Spa on the hillside to relax. But that’s not all -
for adventure enthusiasts the place has a recreation centre, a
five-star PADI dive centre, a marine discovery centre, a tennis
court and a fitness centre. The key outdoor activities for guests
include kayaking, snorkelling, paddle boarding, trekking and

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SAII LAGUNA PHUKET AND SAII PHI PHI ISLAND VILLAGE

Maya Bay

excursions. The resort offers parents the facility of babysitting for so that the island life and corals recoup and are not lost to too
an extra charge. A kids’ playground is also a part of the many much traffic and trampling. The speedboat ride to and from Maya
offerings by SAii Phi Phi Island Village. Bay and surrounding locations, while you snorkel on the way, adds
to the stunning experience.
PHI PHI AND THE WORLD’S RARE WONDER OF NATURE
“Phi Phi has one of the rare wonders of nature. The most popular A key aspect of the resort is sustainability. Post-Covid19, it
thing to do here is go to the beach or indulge in water sports. Phi puts a lot of focus on sustainable tourism, Callens explains. There
Phi is part of the Big Four of the world along with the Caribbean, is no single-use plastic here, and all water bottles are glass and
the Great Barrier Reef and Red Sea. So, nature and diving fans reusable which are filled in-house and not sourced from factory
would like to come to Phi Phi,” says Callens. operations. “At the marine discovery centre, we breed bumble
sharks and clownfish and we have a programme of releasing them.
Staying with wonder of nature, not only is the Phi Phi island We have a marine biologist who looks after them,” reveals the
a great location to be in, at least once, the adjacent Maya Bay is a Cluster General Manager.
stunningly beautiful bay. It is sheltered by nearly 100-m high cliffs
on three sides and cradles to protect the endangered species like While SAii Resorts at Phi Phi Island and Phuket are
corals, and other sea animals and plants. The sea is pristine blue distinguished by their distinct offerings for wholesome stays, it is
and white. The good thing is, it is opened just a few times a year the signature hospitality that unites them and makes them worth a
visit when in Thailand. n

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PROPERTY REVIEW

THE NEWLY LAUNCHED COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
ARAVALI RESORT IN DELHI-NCR AS IT ALL – RELAXING
ROOMS, BREATHTAKING POOL, FINGER-LICKING FOOD

AND JAW-DROPPING EVENT VENUES

IUNTRTHBHEAEPNAERRREAFSVEOACRLTITS

Aerial view of Courtyard
by Marriott Aravali Resort

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MARRIOTT ARAVALI RESORT

The Lobby

BY BULBUL DHAWAN

STAYCATION IS the buzzword in the world of travel and hospitality ‘go’ is the pool which happens to be quite literally the centre of
in the post-pandemic era. Most workplaces still remaining hybrid attraction. One of the largest in Delhi-NCR, the pool has a separate
is only augmenting the trend of staycations, workations and section for kids to enjoy. As many as 12 rooms on the ground floor
weekend getaways. As brands are rushing in to fill this gap in have individual pathways leading from the room to the pool, and
different parts of India, Marriott International has also come up the lounges surrounding the pool form the perfect way for guests
with a beautiful property quite literally in Delhi’s courtyard. to spend their days at the resort.

Elegant. One word that can be used to best describe While the pool remains the main attraction at the resort, the
Courtyard by Marriott’s first resort in India. Just a 45-minute drive aim is for the property to act as a getaway, be it for the corporate
from the Indira Gandhi International Airport in the National Capital, travellers, families or weddings. Though the resort is actively adding
beyond Badkhal and Nawada villages, takes you to the Courtyard by to the array of activities it offers, a family play area, a kids’ indoor play
Marriott Aravali Resort, a hidden gem of the NCR. The trademark area and a dedicated game room are already a part of its offerings. It
Marriott service begins as soon as the guests disembark from the car also allows guests to bring their furry babies along during staycations.
with happy smiles greeting them. A tulsi mala (basil garland) along
with a refreshing drink welcomes them while they enjoy the unhindered Rajneesh Kumar, General Manager, Courtyard by Marriott
view of the three-tiered pool from the sunken lobby itself. Aravali Resort explains how, post-pandemic, there has been a
trend of people wanting to getaway to spend more time with the
The resort, launched in July, has been conceptualised as a families which has led to an increase in demand for the resort
360-degree structure, with a circular pathway running around the space. Then there is a trend of revenge travel which, he believes,
pool and connecting different wings with each other. This seems to will continue to grow with people wanting to get to the nearest
create an atmosphere of its own inside the resort, completely cut-off destination. It is here that Courtyard by Marriott Aravali Resort
from the outside world. Courtyard by Marriott Aravali Resort, hence, makes a difference in their lives. Considering the fact that the
becomes the perfect spot for off-sites, weddings and staycations. property is promoting itself majorly as a getaway destination, the
location, layout and amenities at the resort seem like an elegant
INSTANT ATTRACTION solution for the denizens of Delhi and nearby areas.
The feature that captures the attention of the guests from the word
In fact, the resort has already been performing well. Even before

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PROPERTY REVIEW

POST
PANDEMIC,
THERE IS AN
INCREASE
IN DEMAND
FOR RESORT

SPACES

RAJNEESH KUMAR

GENERAL MANAGER

Swimming Pool

the official launch, the resort was hosting guests through its Marriott allowing the resort to assign a particular wing to a large party if
Bonvoy programme. “We were operational for only 18-odd days in required, informs Kumar.
June but managed profits. We delivered 20 per cent occupancy, and
with just that, we managed 14 per cent Gross Operating Profit which is FOODIES’ DAY OUT
remarkable,” shares Kumar. These stats, he explains, were driven by The food at the resort is par excellence, be it international cuisine,
weekends, B-Leisure segment and a buyout wedding. Indian dishes or the Pan-Asian spread. The dining area is in a
transitional layout. Guests can head from the lobby into Glaze, the
GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP premium lobby lounge, which serves tea and coffee during the day
Offering 158 rooms spread over eight acres, Courtyard by Marriott and turns into a bar in the evening hours. They can also choose to
Aravali assures that guests get a good night’s sleep. A unique concept binge at The Aravali Kitchen, the all-day dining restaurant inspired by
at the resort is the family room – having a king bed and a separate local cultures and offers regional as well as international delicacies.
annexure to the room which contains bunk beds for two kids. This The North Indian fare is exceptional, comprising Tehtar Paneer Tikka,
concept aims to provide families with sufficient room for all members Tandoori Jheenga, Ballabgarh ki Shaami, Butter Chicken, Maa Ki Dal,
while allowing parents to keep an eye on their young ones. Amritsari Chole, Paneer Makkhan Wala and Bhuna Gosht, and the
dessert options umpteen - Chocolate Banana Caramel, Apple tart
“Our base category of rooms starts with an area of 36 sq m tatin, Mango Crème, choux craquelin, Nougat and Coffee Crunch to
and the family rooms with bunk beds have an area of 41 sq m to name a select few. Live stations, deli counter and indoor and outdoor
spaciously accommodate a family of four while ensuring adequate seating complete the restaurant’s ambience.
space and also privacy,” Kumar explains.
The Pan-Asian restaurant, Huang, serves authentic Asian
Guests can choose between Deluxe Rooms, Premier dishes like Signature Sushi, Prawn Cucumber Tempura Roll, Veg.
Rooms, Studio Family Suites, Junior Terrace Suites and Executive California Rolls, Shiitake Mushroom Water-chestnut Crystal
Suites. While some of these rooms offer a view of the pool, others dumplings, Pan-Fried Vegetable in banana leaf, Chili Sauce,
allow guests to look at the Aravali mountain range. Premier Rooms, Cucumber Relish, Seared sea Bass, Singaporean Noodles and
on the other hand, have sit-out areas on the ground floor with a Sweet & Sour Portk. It also has a live station set on a cart to
garden view. Balconies or sit-in spaces are a key feature of all the resemble Asian food markets. A tea stall and an ice-cream cart
rooms. The rooms have been divided into three separate wings,

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MARRIOTT ARAVALI RESORT

Kids’ Play Area THE KEY TO
King Family Room BUILDING A
GREAT CULINARY
BRIGADE IS
PASSION AND
A POSITIVE

ATTITUDE

SHIBENDU RAY
CHAUDHURY

EXECUTIVE CHEF

complete the indoor F&B offerings. The resort has a fully equipped gym and a spa by Levo with
The resort has a poolside bar called Olive Groove to allow six treatment rooms for guests to relax and rejuvenate. Then there are
wet areas including steam and sauna that guests can enjoy. What’s
guests to indulge in refreshing beverages and cocktails while more is that but a couple of treatment rooms at the spa have been
lounging beside the pool under the open skies. However, it is converted into salons for wedding parties for a holistic offering.
something else that sets the resort apart. In the banquet wing is
what the staff calls the “Tree of Life”. Hanging from a tree-inspired “Moreover, near the venue, we also have a green room – a
installation, just inside the doors of the banquet wing, are bottles mini suite kind of concept with one living room for the family to
of juices. Guests have the option to choose which one they want relax and a makeup room and washroom attached to it for the
and the staff “plucks” the juice bottle from the tree for the guest to bride to get ready,” Kumar shares.
enjoy while attending the event.
As the first resort in India under the Courtyard by Marriott
“The menu for the hi-tea is inspired by an English hi tea with brand, Marriott has clearly started strong. The resort is upping
flavours and ingredients which are timeless classics with a touch Marriott’s staycation game and is doing it well! n
of modern presentations coming to play. The Brunch at The Aravali
Kitchen was a confluence of multiple cultures and dinner was a COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
touch of what rural Haryana offers,” explains Executive Chef ARAVALI RESORT
Shibendu Ray Chaudhury.
Phone: +91 129-350-0900
AND MORE… General Manager: Rajneesh Kumar
Apart from staycations and weekend travellers, corporate and Room Rates: Starting at INR 16,000 + taxes
wedding parties form an important target audience for the resort.
As a result, 21,000 sq ft of banqueting space is available for all Keys: 158
sorts of socials – events, meetings, conferences and weddings. Location: Courtyard Aravali Resort,
This space is split between indoor and outdoor spaces, including
a 6,275 sq ft ballroom. Apart from this, two meeting rooms, a 96C6+H49, Gothda, Mohbtabad,
wedding studio and sprawling lawns are also available. Faridabad - 121001

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PROPERTY REVIEW

UANNPELAPURIXTAUOLRMLYEELEODF

The Lobby Caption space for
one lines only

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THE LEELA BHARTIYA CITY BENGALURU

The Infinity Pool

THE LEELA BHARTIYA CITY BENGALURU IS A ONE-STOP
DESTINATION FOR BUSINESS, DINING, CONFERENCING,

LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT

BY SAURABH TANKHA

MUCH LIKE the ‘Three Musketeers’ of the French historical adventure Bhartiya City Bengaluru is steeped in traditional values of glorious
novel penned by Alexander Dumas in 1844 who fought for justice, the Indian legacy. Spread across five acres of Special Economic Zone, it is
trinity of Sikh chefs working at The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru too one the most recently launched properties of The Leela Palaces, Hotels
fight for justice. But of a different kind. The three battle it out in the and Resorts, featuring an impressive lobby, 281 luxurious guestrooms
kitchen to do justice to each and every delicacy they churn out for in six different categories – Deluxe (140), Premier 60), Royal Club (58),
their guests at the property’s five world-class restaurants. The trio – Executive Suites (11), Luxury Suites (11) and the Presidential Suite (1).
Corporate Chef Jatinder Pal Singh, Senior Sous Chef Gurpreet Singh It also boasts of extensive banqueting and conferencing venues, a
and Sous Chef Prabjeet Singh – brings the flavours from the world to world-class spa and a state-of-the-art fitness studio. A one-stop
your plate with marked perfection and serve with extreme delight in destination for business, dining, conferencing, leisure and entertainment,
their soft and knowledgeable voices. Needless to say, each one is a the hotel is perfect for celebrations, weddings, bespoke events and
treat. So, if you happen to be in Bengaluru, don’t miss having a meal business meetings. Offering quintessential settings, modern technology
at The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru and encounter one of the three and personalised services, the mixed-use complex comprises the
along with their most favourite companion, Executive Sous Chef hotel, luxury residences, convention centre, dining, retail spaces,
Eliyaz who, unlike his kitchen teammates, is a man of few words but entertainment, office and commercial spaces.
a master at the craft of cooking like them.
The property is helmed by the suave and polite General
The largest integrated township in Bengaluru, The Leela Manager Reuben Kataria. A veteran of the hospitality industry, Kataria

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PROPERTY REVIEW

EACH DISH IS METICULOUSLY
CONCOCTED BY OUR

TALENTED CHEFS TO WEAVE
TOGETHER AN EXPERIENCE

JATINDER PAL SINGH

CORPORATE CHEF

is recognised for his leadership qualities and astute business acumen to The Lotus Oriental for a vibrant dining experience comprising Thai,
in managing hotels. “The positioning of the Leela Bhartiya City Japanese and Chinese delicacies.
Bengaluru is its most interesting aspect. We are, in fact, not too far
from anything which is significant – airport (25-30 minutes), heart of “The signature dishes include steamed dim sums of barbequed
Bengaluru city (35-40 minutes) and Manyata Tech Park (12-14 duck in lotus leaf, Cantonese buttered milk prawn, Mapo Tofu, Dan
minutes),” shares Kataria, adding that the property is one of the very Dan Noodle and Yuzu lemon curd tart ice cream. Here guests can
few hotels in the world of which one can easily say – ‘Once you take travel to different regions of China with a menu that offers signature
up a room at the hotel, you get a city with it’. “Eat. Work. Play. Love. delicacies from Sichuan, Canton and the classic northern regions of
Everything can happen here,” he says. Interestingly, the hotel is Lioning and Shandong. Then cross the Yellow Sea and follow the
located in the central district of Bhartiya City which also comprises food trail to Japan with its unique seafood flavours,” says Chef JP,
The Leela Residences, the convention centre, Bhartiya Mall of effervescent as always.
Bengaluru and a soon-to-open PVR.
The Library Bar is the place to be if you want a a relaxed evening
FOOD FOR THOUGHT with your family or friends. It is here you can sip on the choicest of rare
The star attraction of the hotel is the Indian speciality restaurant, malts and Armagnacs or may be have an innovative cocktail. However,
Falak on the rooftop, the 17th floor. Overlooking a panoramic view of the most happening place when it comes to food is Quattro that offers
Bhartiya City, Falak carries the legacy of an authentic fine dine an ultimate all-day dining experience, utilising seasonal and locally-
experience, offering recipes that have been preserved and reinvented sourced produce. “Each dish here is meticulously concocted by the
over the years. “These recipes were created in an era of indigenous hotel’s talented chefs to weave together an international spread
spices and traditional cooking methods. From Awadhi to North West comprising Mediterranean, European, Oriental and Indian cuisines,”
Frontier fare, we prepare a variety to cater to every true aficionado of shares Chef JP adding the signature dishes at Quattro include Spinach
fine Indian cuisine,” says veteran Chef Farman Ali, the Corporate and Caramelised Onion Ravioli and Keto Salmon.
Master Chef of Indian Cuisine at The Leela Group.
He adds that except for some proprietary sauces for the Asian
He adds that consistency is the key characteristic of the restaurant or the caramel chocolates which are exported, most
restaurant and one must not miss its Tandoori Chicken. “It is the best supplies are sourced locally on a day-to-day basis. “Chef Eliyaz has
in the country, giving flavour and culinary precision a new definition tied up with a few farms around town, including a fishery in south
and essence,” says Chef Farman who has over five decades of Bengaluru. We even get our cheese locally. So, most of our supplies
experience. Other not-to-be-missed classics are Dadi Jaan Ka are from within the ecosystem,” he informs. However, to get authentic
Qorma, Daal-e-Falak, Nalli Nehari, Koyla Atta Chicken and Balai Ka
Tukda. One can easily say it is at Falak that the past and future of
Indian gastronomy comes alive.

But if you have a penchant for Oriental cuisine, you can head

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THE LEELA BHARTIYA CITY BENGALURU

Falak Restaurant

ONCE YOU TAKE UP A Falak. A meticulously crafted blend, this wine is complex, well-
ROOM AT THE HOTEL, YOU balanced and magical with pronounced aromas of red berries and
cherries perfumed with floral notes of violets and potpourri roses,”
GET A CITY WITH IT. EAT. says Rohit Pandey, Hotel Manager and the man behind the idea of
WORK. PLAY. LOVE the private label of wine in collaboration with Grover Zampa Vineyards.

REUBEN KATARIA WELLNESS REDEFINED
If there is a not-to-miss F&B spread for food lovers at the property,
GENERAL MANAGER health and wellness conscious souls can head to one of its most
treasured luxuries – Amaris The Spa. Overlooking the Central Park of
delicacies on the plate, especially the Indian spread, the atta, ghee, Bhartiya City, the spa has a calm and a soothing aura that instantly
papads and vadis are brought in from Amritsar. “We can’t be makes one get the feeling of revitalisation, relaxation and rejuvenation.
compromising on what is being served to our guests, thus this As you navigate your way through the spa, you find five spacious
sourcing,” he says. treatment rooms, including a couple treatment room, steam and
sauna. Besides its rich interiors, what makes Amaris The Spa
Most recently, The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru launched distinctive is the range of services it offers –exclusive massage
their own signature label of wine, Falak. “The inspiration of this blend therapies like the Swedish Spirit and Balinese Massage to traditional
comes from Falak, an immersive Indian fine dine experience. The techniques of aromatherapy and abhyanga. “All these have been
thought process for our very own label of wine is in continuation to deftly curated for you to select from, keeping the well-being of body
and mind at the centre of it,” says Dr Ranjitha Alva, Spa Manager,
Amaris The Spa.

After availing the services at the spa, the guest is escorted to
the lounging area of Amaris The Spa where hanging couches lift your
feet off the ground in a mini-foot dipping pool. All you need to do is
close your eyes and gently swing on the plush couch as the water
flows around your feet, immersing you in the greatness of the spa

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PROPERTY REVIEW

Quattro experience that you just encountered.
The Library Bar Alva adds the spa menu too has been thoughtfully curated

keeping the changing lifestyle and needs of the present audience with
therapies borrowed heavily from ancient rituals to offer the best of
traditional healing and cooling ingredients. “Body treatments like anti-
ageing scrubs and brightening wraps to vitalise and energise your body
are conscientiously chosen using natural oils and herbs to make it an
unforgettable experience. Facials with practices like marine rituals,
rehydration, desensitisation and super lift treatments will make you and
your skin feel fresh and beautiful,” informs the ever-smiling Alva.

So, one can easily term The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru as
the place to experience quintessential Indian luxury and the perfect
escape from reality. n

THE LEELA BHARTIYA CITY
BENGALURU

Phone: +91 89040 87632
General Manager: Reuben Kataria
Room Rates: Starting at INR 9,315 + taxes

Keys: 281
Location: The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru,
Thanisandra Main Road, Bengaluru - 560064

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DID YOU KNOW?

A CRUISE SHIP AND A
CONDOMINIUM COMPLEX

With 165 residences (106 apartments, 19 studio apartments
and 40 studios), all owned by the ship’s residents,
MS The World is a private residential cruise ship that
operates like a condominium complex. Even as the ship
travels, which it has been since 2002, the residents, from
different countries, can choose to live on board full-time
or visit it periodically. Operated by ROW Management Ltd
headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States,
the ship has an average occupancy of anywhere between
150 and 200 residents and guests.

ASSOCIATION

COMMITTED TO GROWING
BUSINESS FOR HOTELS,

THEIR PARTNERS

SONNIA SINGH,
MANAGING DIRECTOR, HSMAI
INDIA, SAYS THE CHAPTER IS
ENCOURAGING HOTELS AND
PARTNERS TO DRIVE ENGAGEMENT
AND VALUE THROUGH WEBINARS,
EDUCATIONAL EVENTS AND
EXECUTIVE ROUNDTABLES

BY BWH BUREAU

IN LESS than five years from now, the Hospitality Sales and champion in identifying and communicating trends in the hospitality
Marketing International (HSMAI) will complete a century of its industry while operating as a leading voice for both hospitality and
existence. Founded in the United States in 1927, HSMAI is a sales, marketing and revenue management disciplines as also
non-profit industry association for hotel and hospitality sales, connecting its members with the customers. The organisation
marketing, revenue management, distribution, digital and general operates regionally around the globe via regional boards of
managers. Membership and participation with HSMAI offers directors and staff. There are three regions: The Americas, Asia
training, networking and conference events for career Pacific, Europe and a Middle East chapter. Each region has
development in the hotel and hospitality industry across the Asia signature programmes and services for association members. It
Pacific Region. Today, it is an individual membership organisation also has a global board which comprises delegates from each
comprising around 5,000 members from 35 countries and region.
chapters worldwide.
India operations of the organisation are headed by Sonnia
With a strong focus on education, HSMAI has become the Singh, Managing Director, HSMAI India. Excerpts from an interview:

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124

HSMAI INDIA

What are some of the challenges being faced by hospitality AS BUSINESS ACCELERATES,
sales and marketing professionals? THE CHALLENGE REMAINS
The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of automation in IN PROVIDING MEANINGFUL
almost all facets of the industry ahead of its time. While that EXPERIENCES TO GUESTS
certainly provides a seamless experience for the customer whose WHILST REMAINING
priority is contactless service, the question of creating demand CONTACTLESS AND
and looking for trends in the new normal continues. The industry MAINTAINING SANITISATION
has risen well to the challenge of the changing dynamics of travel AND HYGIENE
and the different customer segments that have surfaced and has
been able to deliver customer delight. As business accelerates, throughout 2022. The HSMAI Academy is a great option for those
the challenge remains in providing meaningful experiences to looking for global certifications to endorse their expertise in sales,
guests whilst remaining contactless and maintaining sanitisation marketing or revenue roles. There are also online courses and all
and hygiene. There is also the issue of having a shortage of these enable us to support the career growth of our members. By
experienced personnel and the right people in the right roles. The the end of this year, we aim to set up a Board and take on more
industry is also grappling with managing the continuously changing responsible projects in sync with industry needs.
consumer demands. Cybersecurity is something that has surfaced
as a priority area. How can HSMAI assist its members to take advantage of
the evolving marketing trends in their strategy?
How do you see marketing trends shaping the hospitality Of course. HSMAI assists its members through collaboration.
industry in 2022? The roundtables and ‘members only’ events offer insights and a
Prominent trends that have emerged include shorter booking lead platform to learn from one another as well as some thought-
times. Video outreach seems to be drawing major eyeballs resulting provoking events. Then HSMAI Academy provides certifications
in increased footfalls. As customers become more concerned in business acumen, revenue management and sales and
about privacy and sharing personal details, there a decline marketing. Every aspect of content and support material included
happens in third party data collection. This leads to first party data in HSMAI’s programmes have been specifically designed and
collection and evolve into customised marketing campaigns to developed for those involved in hotel commercial functions
offer personalised experiences. Hotels need to gear up for pent up including a wealth of subject matter appropriate to individuals
demand that seems to be spilling over now. B-leisure and with responsibilities ranging from entry level to advanced.
staycations are here to stay so being ready with focus on well- Resources for sales and marketing professionals are in plenty
being, smart rooms and digitalised options will enable hotels to and include articles, white papers, conference presentations and
manage those expectations well. VR and AI-enabled virtual templates. And, this access to explore resources, tools, jobs,
experiences will help position brands well in the customer mind- education and news from HSMAI and other trustworthy sources
map. comes by way of being members. n

Kindly explain HSMAI membership procedure and its
benefits to sales and marketing professionals in the Indian
hospitality sector?
As a hotelier, one can become an individual member or take up
group membership within his/ her hotel to benefit a group size of
5-20 members at different tiers. Then there is organisational
membership which gives benefits across chapters.

What are your priority areas for the development of HSMAI
in India?
HSMAI India is responsible for executing the vision of HSMAI in the
Indian subcontinent. We are committed to providing value for our
members and partners. We intend to remain industry’s leading
advocate for intelligent and sustainable hotel growth with tools,
insights and expertise to fuel sales as also inspire marketing and
optimise revenue. The India chapter is encouraging hotels and
partners to join as members and drive engagement and value
through webinars, educational events and executive roundtables

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ASSOCIATION

BELIEVING IN POWER
OF NETWORKING, SHARING

WORK EXPERIENCE

HOSPITALITY PURCHASE MANAGERS’ FORUM
(HPMF) PLANS TO INTRODUCE SUSTAINABLE

POLICY FOR MEMBERS SOON

BY BWH BUREAU

TO BRING together and channelise the wealth of expertise in fraternity in the world. Recently, the formation of the HPMF
the subject of logistics, purchase and supply chain/ materials strategic team to meet the organisation’s 1,000-day agenda
management as to foster a basis for best practices and was announced. “The army of 150-plus highly experienced and
encourage procurement of high quality and high standard motivated team of hospitality purchasing professionals from
products to upgrade the overall standard of an organisation, across 20 cities of India and neighbouring countries are raring
Hospitality Purchasing Managers’ Forum (HPMF) was formed in to go to lift the benchmark HPMF creates. The plan is to form
2010. It is a consortium of like-minded purchasing managers dedicated teams of these professionals to execute 100-point
from the hospitality industry representing star hotels, catering agenda in structured and time-bound manner. The agenda
companies, standalone restaurant chains and airlines. covers a gamut of activities including strategic tie-ups with
various governing bodies, formation of educational programmes
The idea to form HPMF first came into the mind of Dr specially for hospitality procurement, opening of several HPMF
Nitin Shankar Nagrale who realised the importance of collective chapters covering India and other countries, socially responsible
approach, power of networking and importance of work activities to bring relief and direction to the underprivileged and
experience. Along with Dr Sanjay Goyal, he convinced to members of the fraternity,” informs Dr Nagrale.
likeminded purchasing professionals to be part of this innovative
move. It took more than a year to bring few professionals
together to form the core team comprising experienced and
qualified purchasing professionals.

HPMF, now a 6,000 member strong organisation
operating in 48 Indian cities with 20 chapters and and with
presence in Nepal, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and the Middle East,
is taking the next step to ensure the organisation is recognised
as the finest professional platform for hospitality procurement

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HPMF

HPMF HAS PLANS TO COME
UP WITH A POLICY WHERE ALL
PURCHASE MANAGERS WILL

TAKE AN OATH THAT THEY
WILL NOT BE INVOLVED IN ANY

UNETHICAL PRACTICE

HPMF has plans to come up with a policy where all in detail from these specialists which were then given final
purchase managers will take an oath that they will not be shape by advisory board member Jaideep Gupta. The book has
involved in any unethical practice. “The document will have to graphical presentations with templates, forms and visuals. A
be signed by each and every HPMF member and if found guilty, benchmark in the industry, it is shared free of cost with all HPMF
he or she will be banned for life from working within the industry,” members and educational institutions having supply chain as a
he shares. “We will soon implement our sustainable policy which subject,” shares Dr Nagrale.
was launched three years ago. Being developed at present, it
will ensure that all purchase managers buy sustainable products During the pandemic, HPMF, informs its founder,
only. It will have certain norms which the purchase or organised weekly or fortnightly webinars based on the book
procurement manager will need to check before buying a which has a Q&A session after each chapter. “It helped members
product,” he says. to learn a lot. Then we started the Guru Mantra series aimed at
identifying gurus of supply chain plus hospitality management
Dr Nagrale feels HPMF has exceeded the expectations within the industry and world at large. We had 30 odd sessions
with which the organisation was envisioned. “Over the last 12 where senior advisory board member Padma Shri Dr Rajnikant,
years, we have gone beyond it all. And it only happens when Major General Dilawar Singh, late Thakur Giriraj Singh Lotwada,
people at the helm of affairs are passionate. All HPMF members Dr Kaushik Jhingan, Madhu Chandhok and Mala Singh guided
are working professionally who work together without any and advised industry professionals through a Q&A session.
financial interest for the benefit of the industry,” he avers. Several subject related webinars on hospitality management
were organised too,” he shares, adding the idea has been to
When the organisation was formed, the first step was to develop purchasing professionals and instill confidence in them
create a book called Basics of Hospitality Management which to be world leaders in their respective fields. “If the purchase
was penned by 20 purchase managers who were masters in manager is learned and well-informed, the organisation he
their own fields like imports, negotiations, suppliers and the works with gets to benefit the most,” Dr Nagrale says. n
like. “It took about five years to collate all possible information

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