COVER STORY101BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comADITYA SANGHICo-Founder & CEO, HotelogixDRIVING EFFICIENCY THROUGH CLOUD INTEGRATIONIndia’s midscale hotel segment is expanding at a 13 per cent CAGR, with 2025 ADR at 4,865, occupancy at 63 per cent and RevPAR at 3,099, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Cloud adoption among hotel groups grew by about 50-60 per cent between 2022 and 2025, with most new entrants going for it from day one. As a trusted tech partner, Hotelogix now powers 400,000 rooms (about 15 per cent of India’s inventory), helping hotels swiftly upgrade to the cloud. Its top 20 portfolio is growing at 20 per cent in terms of inventory and its solutions drive efficiency, centralise operations, enable data-driven decision-making and onboard new properties quickly, all while assisting them to boost the guest experience.CONSUMER BEHAVIOURToday’s hotel guests increasingly expect contactless, faster checkins, AI chatbots for communication, and mobile apps for seamless journeys starting pre-arrival. Hotels can use our Guest Services App to let guests complete pre-check-in formalities, reducing front desk friction and lobby wait times. Guests can raise service requests via their phones, while staff track and resolve them promptly. Our solution empowers hotels to centralise operations and standardise service, ensuring they consistently meet guest to booking and pre‑arrival engagement, so that the on‑property experience can focus on hospitality rather than compensating for upstream gaps.DATA-DRIVEN HOSPITALITY ECOSYSTEMThe next phase of growth for India’s hospitality sector will depend on orchestration, not isolation. Hotels, venue chains, independent properties, suppliers, technology platforms, and government bodies will need to operate more like an integrated value chain than a collection of disconnected actors.Hotels and venues are seeking smarter access to both domestic and international demand; suppliers and intermediaries are seeking more predictable pipelines; and policymakers are increasingly requiring real-time visibility into tourism, events, and travel flows to guide infrastructure and destination investments. Digital platforms such as Cvent can serve as connective tissue within this broader ecosystem, aggregating demand signals, standardising data, and enabling more transparent, efficient marketplaces for meetings, events, and group business.When data is integrated and incentives aligned, the result is a win-win-win: hotels gain stable, diversified occupancy, suppliers gain scale and certainty, destinations gain visibility and higher-value tourism, and India strengthens its position as a global hospitality and MICE hub. Collaboration is no longer a slogan but an operational necessity. The sector’s next phase of growth will depend on how effectively the ecosystem aligns technology, policy, and on-ground experiences.
COVER STORY102BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comexpectations. Integrated AI capabilities further enable personalised upselling, dynamic room upgrades, and automated WhatsApp campaigns for targeted marketing.BENEFICIAL BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT The thriving hospitality and tourism ecosystem in India demand strong collaboration among hotel partners, supply chain stakeholders, and the government. Hotels must form strategic alliances with local suppliers to procure required materials on time and cost-effectively, thereby embracing sustainability and reducing operational costs. The Government must work to simplify regulations, offer incentives, and improve infrastructure to enable faster growth and innovation. Joint marketing efforts can drive regional tourism. Most importantly, the government should provide hotels with significant tax relief for investments in operation-critical technology solutions, enabling hotels to drive growth. SHIBANI DASGUPTA JAINFounder & CEO, Baaya DesignWHERE CRAFT, CULTURE, AND HOSPITALITY CONVERGEProjected to reach $45.39 billion by 2030, India’s hospitality sector is experiencing transformation driven by three critical trends. First, the experiential imperative, travellers seek culturally immersive experiences over transactional stays, as evidenced by spiritual tourism growth and event-driven travel. Second, wellness has evolved from amenity to core infrastructure, with themes like biophilic design and cultural offerings like Ayurveda and the local touch becoming essential. Third, Tier II and Tier III cities are driving expansion as improved connectivity unlocks previously underserved markets.Baaya Design leverages these trends by bridging India’s 5,000-year craft heritage with contemporary hospitality design. Working with 300-plus artisans across 70-plus traditional art forms, from Gond and Madhubani to brass Dokra, we transform spaces into living cultural narratives. Its portfolio spanning Tata Bombay House, Hyatt Residency Dehradun and major airports demonstrates how artisanal design creates authentic, placebased experiences that modern travellers demand.CONSUMER BEHAVIOURToday’s guests are digitally native, sustainability-conscious, and experience-obsessed. Baaya Design addresses these expectations through three innovations. First, design as cultural dialogue, creating hyperlocal environments where traditional craft becomes contemporary art. Its Hotel Tirupati installation exemplifies this, with each floor narrating heritage legacies through bespoke artworks.Second, sustainable craftsmanship meets conscious travellers’ values. The model supports rural artisan communities
COVER STORY103BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comANUPAM V JOSHEFounder & President, WAE LtdFROM COMFORT TO CONSCIOUSNESSand employs natural materials with minimal carbon footprint.Third, the team at Baaya ensures consistency through narrative coherence rather than standardisation. Every design element, from lobby murals to room artifacts, contributes to a unified story, delivering the “familiar yet distinctly local” experience modern travelers seek across different properties. Our work at the Hyatt Regency Dehradun is a great example for this category. Sharing perspective on how hotel partners, the supply chain, and the Government can collaboratively create a mutually beneficial business environment within India’s hospitality and tourism landscape, we feel that sustained growth requires collaborative ecosystem strengthening across three dimensions. First, hotel partnerships succeed when designers and operators share unified visions from conceptual stages. Our collaborations with Oberoi and Marasa groups demonstrate how early design integration delivers enhanced guest satisfaction and brand differentiation.Second, supply chain consciousness creates resilience. Fair, transparent artisan relationships, eliminating exploitative intermediaries, ensure that makers receive stable demand and fair compensation, enabling skill innovation. This addresses sustainability-conscious guests’ expectations while supporting inclusive growth.Third, the Government support remains critical. Granting infrastructure status to hotels would unlock capital flows, especially for Tier II and Tier III expansion. Tax incentives for properties employing traditional artisans, craft-skill training subsidies, and mandating authentic regional design in the 100-plus new tourist destinations would strengthen the ecosystem, ensuring India’s tourism story is culturally compelling and commercially successful. India is entering a strong growth phase in travel and lodging, driven by rising domestic movement, expansion into Tier II and Tier III cities, and a decisive shift towards experience-led, sustainable stays. Today’s guests—especially younger and global travellers — expect more than comfort; they expect responsibility. Sustainability, ESG compliance, water stewardship and the elimination of single-use plastic are no longer optional, but business imperatives.At the same time, hotels are under pressure to improve operational efficiency while enhancing guest well-being and brand differentiation. This is where WAE is uniquely positioned. Its in-house water purification and glass bottling solutions help hospitality brands eliminate plastic bottled water, reduce Scope 3 emissions, and deliver safe, great-tasting water with transparency and pride.As the industry embraces conscious luxury and smarter infrastructure, WAE enables hotels to align purpose with performance — proving that sustainability, guest experience and profitability can grow together.CONSUMER BEHAVIOURThe organisation is innovating at the intersection of consumer behaviour, sustainability science, and operational design to respond to the evolving expectations of today’s hospitality guests. Contemporary consumers demonstrate heightened awareness around health, environmental impact and authenticity, seeking experiences that align with their personal values without compromising quality or convenience. In response, we have developed decentralised, technology-enabled water purification and in-house glass bottling systems that eliminate CONTEMPORARY CONSUMERS DEMONSTRATE HEIGHTENED AWARENESS AROUND HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
COVER STORY104BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comsingle-use plastics while ensuring uniform quality, safety, and sensory consistency across properties. Our solutions are designed using evidence-based water quality standards and lifecycle impact assessments, enabling hotels to deliver measurable improvements in guest trust, well-being, and environmental performance. By embedding sustainability into core infrastructure rather than surface-level initiatives, we help hospitality partners create seamless, responsible, and consistently superior guest experiences aligned with long-term behavioural and regulatory trends.BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT A resilient and future-ready hospitality ecosystem in India requires structured collaboration between hotel operators, the extended supply chain and public institutions. Hotel partners must act as integrators, adopting long-term procurement strategies that prioritise sustainability, quality assurance, and operational resilience over short-term cost arbitrage. The supply chain, in turn, must invest in standardisation, traceability and low-impact innovations that align with global ESG and safety benchmarks. Government plays a catalytic role by enabling this alignment through stable policy frameworks, rational taxation, incentiveled sustainability adoption, and infrastructure support across emerging tourism clusters. When regulatory intent, commercial objectives, and environmental responsibility are aligned, the ecosystem moves from transactional engagement to value co-creation—driving competitiveness, employment, and sustainable tourism growth while enhancing India’s global hospitality positioning. VISHAL PURICo-founder, SpalbaTHE FUTURE OF EVENT BUYINGIndia is witnessing strong growth in MICE, destination weddings, corporate offsites and experience-led travel. At the same time, the way business is being won is changing. Buyers now expect faster discovery, quicker decision-making and greater confidence before booking. This is pushing hotels to adopt digital-first sales enablement, particularly for banquets, conventions and large group business.Another major trend is the rapid rise of Tier II and Tier III markets, where adoption has increased by nearly 50 per cent as demand spreads beyond metros. Alongside this, the Government’s Wed in India initiative is creating strong momentum for domestic weddings and positioning the country as a global wedding destination, benefitting hotels, resorts and convention centres across leisure and heritage locations.Spalba is built to leverage these trends. The platform provides detailed information on 4,000-plus properties across the country out of which more than 350 are in the Digital Twin
COVER STORY105BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comformat, enabling unparalleled visibility to the properties. It is witnessing 100 per cent-plus year-on-year growth in hotels, resorts and convention centres adopting this technology and are on track to close at 500-plus properties soon. It has generated 2,500-plus event enquiries, with nearly 70 per cent going to subscribed properties. With the Digital Twin technologies resulting in high buying intent, hotels are seeing a 35-40 per cent lead to conversion ratio as against an industry average of less than 10 per cent. Most importantly, 85 per cent of hotels and resorts are renewing with the company, which validates the long-term value it is creating.CONSUMER BEHAVIOURConsumer behaviour in hospitality is becoming digital first. Even wedding families and corporate planners behave like modern buyers. They want to see a venue before committing, compare options quickly and align stakeholders without repeated site visits. This shift is accelerating with initiatives like Wed in India, where the opportunity is large but decision making must be fast and high confidence.Spalba is innovating by building a digital first planning and selling layer for hospitality. With virtual walkthroughs and digital twins, planners can evaluate spaces remotely, understand venue flow and make informed decisions faster. This reduces uncertainty and prevents last minute surprises, which protects the guest experience on ground.Guest expectations have also evolved. Personalisation is no longer a luxury, it is the baseline. But treating every guest and every event with deep personalisation becomes impossible manually, especially when teams are stretched. Spalba helps hotels build scalable hyper-personalisation by providing tools like layouting wizards and personal property tours that enable personalisation at scale. The company also focusses on consistency. Many event experiences break down due to misalignment between sales, operations and vendors. By enabling structured layouts and smoother coordination, Spalba help hotels deliver more predictable outcomes across weddings, conferences, and large social events. Innovation for us is about delivering confidence at every step.COLLABORATIONS BOOSTIndia’s hospitality and tourism opportunity becomes transformational when hotels, the supply chain and the Government collaborate with a shared goal of improving ease of doing business while elevating guest outcomes.The Wed in India, as mentioned earlier, initiative is a strong example of how policy can create demand, strengthen domestic tourism and boost hospitality revenue across regions. For this to scale meaningfully, hotels must be ready with digitised venue information, clear inventory visibility and faster conversion systems. The supply chain including event vendors, logistics partners and production teams must deliver with reliability and consistent quality benchmarks so guest experiences remain world-class.Spalba supports this ecosystem by democratising information. This is making Indian venues more discoverable and easier to evaluate through immersive digital twins and virtual walkthroughs. This helps planners and families shortlist faster, helps hotels convert better and helps destinations compete more strongly. When Government demand creation meets industry readiness and digital enablement, it becomes a win-win model for everyone involved. GUEST EXPECTATIONS HAVE EVOLVED. PERSONALISATION IS NO LONGER A LUXURY, IT IS THE BASELINE
COVER STORY106BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comRAMBABU TALLURIFounder, caratRED TechnologiesMANAGING GROWTH IN A DIGITAL ERAAs India’s hospitality sector enters a phase of structurally driven growth, collaboration, compliance and technology are emerging as decisive enablers. In this interview, we explore how closer alignment between hotel operators, supply partners and government can create a more efficient, scalable ecosystem, and examine the key demand, regulatory and expansion trends shaping the industry’s next chapter—along with how CaratRED is positioning itself to support hotels through finance-led digital transformation.COLLABORATIVE HOSPITALITY ECOSYSTEMA sustainable, high-growth hospitality ecosystem in India depends on close collaboration between hotel operators, the supply chain, and government bodies, with each playing an interdependent role. Hotels can lead by adopting transparent, standardised, and digital processes that enable better forecasting, timely payments, and consistent compliance. Clean data and predictable workflows strengthen trust with vendors, service providers, and financial institutions.The supply chain — from technology and FMCG partners to logistics and payment providers — must align with hospitality operating cycles. Flexible commercial models, system integrations, and shared data standards can reduce friction, improve service levels, and support peak periods such as MICE events and festive seasons.Government and regulators remain key enablers through simplified compliance, digitised approvals, and uniform guidelines across states. Initiatives such as digital taxation, single-window clearances, infrastructure development and tourism promotion provide a strong foundation for private investment and innovation.When these stakeholders collaborate through shared digital infrastructure, transparent compliance, and policy consistency, the result is a mutually beneficial ecosystem — lower operating friction for hotels, predictable business for suppliers, and sustainable growth, employment generation and global competitiveness for India’s hospitality sector.DEMAND, EXPANSION AND DIGITISATIONIndia’s hospitality industry is witnessing strong, structurally driven growth, led primarily by resilient domestic travel, rising discretionary spending, and improved connectivity. Leisure travel, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), destination weddings, and spiritual tourism are now consistent demand drivers rather than seasonal spikes. At the same time, hotels are seeing rate-led growth, with higher ADRs and RevPAR, reflecting a shift toward premium experiences, boutique luxury, and wellness-oriented stays. Expansion into Tier II and Tier III cities is further accelerating capacity growth, while owners and operators increasingly adopt asset-light and technology-led models. Alongside this growth, regulatory compliance, audit readiness, data security, and sustainability reporting are becoming non-negotiable expectations.CaratRED is well positioned to leverage these trends through its deep focus on finance and compliance automation for the hospitality sector. As transaction volumes increase due to higher occupancies, events, and multi-property portfolios, hotels require scalable, standardised, and audit-ready financial workflows. CaratRED’s ezySuite platform enables automated invoicing, reconciliations, and statutory compliance with minimal manual intervention, helping hotels manage growth without adding operational complexity. Its enterprise-ready architecture, integration capabilities, and compliance-first approach make it particularly suited for large hotel groups and rapidly expanding portfolios. By enabling accurate billing, faster closures, and stronger financial controls, CaratRED supports hotels in maximising revenue, improving governance, and sustaining profitable growth in a rapidly evolving hospitality landscape.
COVER STORY107BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comSANTOSH KUMARRegional Manager, South Asia, Booking.comDECODING THE NEW INDIAN TRAVELLERTravel in India is being reshaped by changing aspirations, preferences and expectations. Our How India Travels 2025 report highlights a surge in domestic travel, with monthly searches consistently crossing 120 million in 2024 and hospitality demand projected to grow at 10.5 per cent annually until 2027. This momentum reflects a nation that is travelling more frequently, more purposefully and with greater curiosity.One of the key factors influencing this has been the creation of infrastructure through initiatives such as UDAN, PRASHAD and Swadesh Darshan. These developments have also expanded the travel map beyond metros, moving into Tier II and Tier III cities, spiritual hubs and culturally rich regions as viable, year-round destinations. For partners, this has translated into sustained occupancy and the confidence to invest in new formats and experiences. Moreover, Indian travellers are at the forefront of digital integration from UPI-led payments and flexible booking models to AIpowered discovery and trip planning. Our data reveal how Indian travellers value ease, transparency and flexibility, whether through Pay at Hotel options or seamless, end-to-end booking journeys. Digital platforms have levelled the playing field, allowing even all operators to grow.What is particularly encouraging is how the definition of value has evolved. Indian travellers are increasingly experience-led, seeking meaning, relevance and emotional connection rather than just low prices. A thoughtfully curated experience can be more compelling than a conventional luxury room. This shift has opened new avenues for hospitality partners including wellness, gastronomy, cultural attractions and on-property experiences are becoming central to growth, with non-room revenues increasingly contributing to overall performance.Looking ahead, the opportunity is immense. With over five billion domestic journeys projected by 2030 and accommodation supply expected to grow rapidly, the next phase of hospitality will be shaped by players who combine local authenticity with digital infrastructure. Public-private collaboration, sustainability-led development and technology adoption will accelerate this momentum.At Booking.com, we remain optimistic about India’s hospitality future. Our focus is on enabling partners of every size to thrive, by empowering them with resources and helping them deliver experiences that resonate with the new Indian traveller. INDIAN TRAVELLERS ARE INCREASINGLY EXPERIENCE-LED, SEEKING MEANING, RELEVANCE AND EMOTIONAL CONNECTION RATHER THAN JUST LOW PRICES
COVER STORY108BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comSIDDHARTHA GUPTACEO, Yatra OnlineSCALING TRAVEL,STRENGTHENING SYSTEMSOver the past decade, India’s hospitality sector has undergone a visible shift in scale and ambition. Expanded airports, improved highways, regional connectivity schemes, and digital public infrastructure have fundamentally reshaped how travel demand is created and distributed. The Modi era has accelerated tourism and hospitality growth, but growth alone does not guarantee institutional maturity. While the sector has expanded rapidly, the strengthening of its underlying structures remains incomplete.The demand story is compelling, though uneven. India recorded nearly three billion domestic tourist visits in 2024, a 17.5 per cent yearon-year increase, reflecting how travel has evolved into a mass, yearround economic activity. Improved connectivity has brought Tier II and Tier III cities firmly into the national travel economy, extending both leisure and business travel beyond traditional metros. Pilgrimage circuits, weekend getaways, short-haul leisure trips, and blended business-leisure travel are now sustaining occupancy through much of the year, signalling a structural shift in travel behaviour.International demand is recovering but remains underpenetrated relative to India’s cultural depth. With 20.6 million foreign arrivals in 2024 and just 1.4 per cent of global tourism share, India must improve destination perception, ease of travel, and visitor experience to compete globally. While demand is resilient, it remains uneven across markets and segments.The next phase of growth is increasingly defined by experience rather than access. Travel is no longer limited to annual holidays or milestone trips. It is becoming embedded in everyday lifestyles through shorter, more frequent journeys and purpose-led travel choices. Travellers are showing greater interest in off-beat destinations, experiential itineraries, and personalised journeys that prioritise discovery and meaning over standardised offerings.AI is emerging as a key enabler in this transition, not merely as an automation tool but as a planning and decision-support layer. AI is helping travellers discover destinations, build itineraries, and personalise journeys more intuitively. Platforms such as Yatra are focusing on moving from transaction-led models to experience-driven ecosystems by using data and AI to improve discovery and better match demand with supply across the travel value chain.Looking ahead to 2025–26, growth is expected to be driven by shorter trips, experiential travel, and the continued blending of leisure and corporate journeys. Corporate, institutional and healthcare-related travel will remain important segments. Online travel platforms will also continue to play a critical role in enabling independent hotels and small entrepreneurs to access national demand, helping level the competitive landscape.Despite strong momentum, structural gaps persist. Organised hotels still represent a relatively small share of room inventory, limiting consolidation, service consistency, and institutional capital inflows. Talent shortages, high attrition, uneven service standards, and growing sustainability pressures continue to challenge operators.The next phase of reform must therefore focus on institutional strength: standardised licensing and quality norms, employabilitylinked skilling, rationalised operating costs, destination-level governance, and improved access to credit for independent entrepreneurs. The Modi era has transformed how India travels. Completing this transformation will require growth that is not only visible, but viable, sustainable, and globally competitive. Demand exists; the unfinished agenda lies in converting it into enduring value for the industry and the nation.
COVER STORY109BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comGAURAV MALIKCountry Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda INDIA’S HOSPITALITY SECTOR ENTERS A NEW TRAVEL CYCLEIndia’s hospitality sector is no longer defined by room inventory or seasonal peaks. Instead, it is being reshaped by how travel itself is evolving—becoming more responsive, flexible, and experiencedriven. Growth today sits at the intersection of consumer intent, digital access, improving infrastructure, and a widening definition of what makes a destination desirable. The direction is clear: travel in India is becoming more popular, more immersive, and increasingly distributed beyond traditional tourism hubs.Agoda’s accommodation search insights show that interest in travel to and within India continues to expand, supported by better connectivity and growing consumer confidence. Few countries offer such proximity between mountains, coastlines, deserts, wildlife, cuisine, and deeply rooted cultural and spiritual traditions. This range enables multi-stop itineraries and reinforces the idea that experiences, not just locations, are now shaping travel decisions.Travellers are also searching further afield while expecting greater flexibility and convenience. Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook reveals that while value remains central, ease of booking and integrated planning play an increasingly important role. There is rising demand for connected travel journeys, where flights, accommodation, and activities come together in a personalised flow. Technologies such as generative AI and fintech tools, including digital wallets and flexible payment options, are enabling this shift by improving discovery, simplifying payments, and reducing friction throughout the journey. This makes the current phase especially dynamic for digital travel platforms.Agoda data further highlights a strong shift towards secondary destinations. Over past two years, accommodation searches for these locations have outpaced traditional hubs and account for over a third of total searches. Thiruvananthapuram and Indore, recently named Agoda’s ‘New Horizon’ destinations, reflect this momentum. The dispersion of demand is helping create a healthier tourism ecosystem by spreading economic benefits beyond established centres.Infrastructure development is reinforcing this trend. Continued investment in regional airports, highways and hospitality assets is improving access to emerging destinations, aligning closely with the Prime Minister’s “One State: One Global Destination” vision. At the same time, visa liberalisation is reducing entry barriers. The expansion of India’s eVisa scheme to 172 nations has driven immediate increases in travel interest, with more than a third of travellers in Agoda’s 2026 survey citing visa requirements as a key factor in destination choice.New demand drivers are also reshaping travel patterns. The growing live events and concert economy is turning entertainment into a powerful travel catalyst. Following Coldplay’s fourth show announcement, Agoda recorded a 47 per cent rise in domestic and an 18 per cent increase in international searches for Ahmedabad, illustrating how cultural events can elevate cities into tourism hubs.Together, these shifts point to a structural evolution in how travel demand is created, distributed, and sustained in India. Backed by economic growth, policy initiatives, and a digitally fluent population, the hospitality sector is evolving in step with modern traveller expectations—positioning India to fulfil its potential as the next global hospitality powerhouse.
MEET THE GM110BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comHOW INDIA’S HOSPITALITY IS BEING REIMAGINEDAs travel demand regained momentum in 2025, India’s hospitality sector witnessed a deeper transformation than mere recovery. Guest expectations shifted decisively from transactional stays to purpose-led, experience-driven journeys, redefining how hotels create and deliver value. “Travellers today are no longer choosing hotels only for location or conventional luxury,” says Sanjay Gupta, General Manager, Marriott Marquis New Delhi, adding, “They are looking for relevance, flexibility and emotional connection.” Marked by the rise of longer stays, blended business-leisure travel and multi-generational trips, the year reflected a growing preference for immersion over indulgence. “What we are witnessing is a move towards experiences that integrate seamlessly into guests’ lifestyles,” he adds, a trend that is set to shape hospitality’s evolution into agile, experienceled lifestyle hubs in 2026, where personalisation, authenticity and sustainability become fundamental expectations rather than competitive advantages.ENGAGING THE NEW-AGE GUEST Today’s new-age traveller is no longer satisfied with standardised experiences. More discerning and experience-conscious than ever before, this segment values choice, transparency and emotional connection. What resonates most is authenticity and autonomy – hotels that feel intuitive rather than prescriptive, and allow guests to move seamlessly between work, wellness, social engagement and rest. “Guests today want the freedom to shape their own journey. Whether it’s starting the day with wellness, hosting a meeting at noon, or unwinding over dinner in the evening, they expect spaces that adapt to their rhythm, not the other way around,” says Gupta.SANJAY GUPTAGeneral Manager, Marriott Marquis New DelhiEqually important is a strong sense of place. Modern travellers are drawn to hotels that reflect their destination while offering the reassurance of global quality and consistency. Purposeful design, anticipatory service and experiences that feel curated yet personal are now central to building meaningful connections. Increasingly, loyalty is no longer driven by how often a guest stays, but by how closely a brand aligns with their lifestyle, values and aspirations. “Loyalty today is about relevance, not repetition. Guests return to brands that understand who they are and what matters to them, not just their booking history,” he explains.At the core of this approach is a strategy rooted in hyperlocal storytelling, elevated service culture and design-led functionality. Hotels are being developed as highly adaptable, experience-led environments, supported by empowered teams trained to deliver service with emotional intelligence and authenticity. Technology plays a vital role in personalising the guest journey, but always in service of deeper human connection.“Our focus is on creating hotels that feel deeply connected to their destination, while delivering the global assurance and consistency that the Marriott brand represents. When guests feel understood rather than simply serviced, and when experiences feel meaningful rather than transactional, loyalty follows naturally,” shares Gupta.F&B AND EXPERIENTIAL TRAVEL TRENDSF&B has emerged as one of the most powerful storytelling platforms within hospitality. Guests are increasingly seeking experiences that celebrate origin, craftsmanship and culinary individuality – where dining is immersive, narrative-led and sensorial rather than transactional. What was once considered
SANJAY GUPTA111BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.coman amenity has evolved into a primary travel driver, shaping how guests plan their journeys and choose their destinations. Today, travellers are increasingly placing food at the centre of their itineraries – planning destinations and experiences around what they want to eat and where they want to eat it. They are drawn to chef-led narratives, regionally rooted menus and immersive dining formats that tell a compelling story. “Food today is not just about taste, it is about identity, memory and connection. Guests want to understand where their food comes from, who creates it, and what it represents,” says the General Manager, Marriott Marquis New Delhi.In experiential travel, a similar evolution is unfolding. Travellers are no longer content with observation alone; they seek participation, cultural intimacy and moments of genuine discovery. Wellness, sustainability and community engagement are becoming integral to how experiences are perceived, valued and evaluated. “People want to engage more deeply with the places they visit. They are looking for experiences that feel authentic, responsible and emotionally rewarding,” explains Gupta.The sweet spot lies in developing destination-forward dining concepts, collaborating closely with culinary talent and curating experiences that are authentic, locally inspired and thoughtfully layered. The emphasis is on quality, originality and emotional recall – ensuring that each experience leaves a lasting impression – and on depth over scale: doing fewer things, but doing them meaningfully.OUTLOOK FOR 2026 Gupta remains optimistic about the road ahead. Looking towards 2026, he sees strong demand fundamentals and a hospitality sector entering a phase of more disciplined, quality-led growth, supported by robust domestic travel, a more mature traveller base and India’s rising global visibility. “The industry is moving towards more sustainable and quality-driven growth,” he says.Gupta’s priorities are anchored around four key areas. The first is performance – driving sustainable revenue growth through a diversified mix spanning corporate, MICE, extended stays and lifestyle travel, while maintaining a strong focus on profitability and long-term value creation. The second priority is technology. When used thoughtfully, digital tools and AI can enhance personalisation, improve efficiency and support better decisionmaking, while reinforcing – not replacing – the human warmth that defines hospitality. “Technology should enable people, not distance them,” explains Gupta.Talent development forms the third pillar, with a focus on engaging the next generation through continuous learning, leadership development and purpose-driven workplaces that offer flexibility and clear growth pathways. “Young professionals today want purpose and opportunity,” he notes. Finally, Gupta highlights the need to navigate challenges such as talent retention, rising costs and high guest expectations, while remaining agile and brand-aligned in a rapidly evolving landscape.Beyond individual properties, the General Manager, Marriott Marquis New Delhi, remains committed to strengthening industry dialogue around resilience, responsible growth, talent readiness and thoughtful technology adoption – essential, he believes, to sustaining Indian hospitality’s global relevance. THE INDUSTRY IS MOVING TOWARDS MORE SUSTAINABLE AND QUALITY-DRIVEN GROWTH
MEET THE GM112BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comEXPERIENCE, RESILIENCE AND THE 2026 TRAVELLERSAs India’s hospitality sector steps into a new cycle of growth shaped by shifting traveller expectations, luxury hotels are being challenged to think beyond scale and brand strength. The guests are no longer defined only by the purpose of travel, but by values, intent and experience. For hotels operating in high-intensity markets like Delhi-NCR, this shift has brought both opportunity and pressure.At JW Marriott Aerocity, New Delhi, these transformations are being interpreted through a clear operational lens. The hotel, positioned at the heart of one of the country’s fastest-growing business and MICE corridors, is aligning its strategy around the evolving traveller, experience-led hospitality and long-term resilience. For Vishal Singh, General Manager, JW Marriott Aerocity, New Delhi, understanding the past year has been the key to preparing for what lies ahead.“Despite geopolitical and weather-related challenges that impacted certain markets, especially in the north, the sector showed resilience and finished strong. One can say 2025 was a good year for the hospitality sector, though it came with its share of disruptions,” says Singh.DISCERNING TRAVELLER AND SHIFTING BEHAVIOUROne of the most significant shifts that Singh observed through last year was the growing discernment among travellers. “Today, guests are far more conscious about where they stay and why. They have become extremely discerning. It is all about purposedriven travel now where guests are choosing hotels that align VISHAL SINGHGeneral Manager, JW Marriott Aerocity, New Delhiwith their values, ethos and beliefs,” Singh notes, adding, “It is not just about luxury anymore. It is about mindfulness, wellbeing, personalisation and sustainability.”However, he feels this behavioural change is expected to deepen in 2026, with guests seeking experiences than accommodation. “Personalisation will become a necessity, not a nice-to-have. Guests expect a seamless journey and meaningful experiences, whether it is food, wellness or how technology supports their stay,” says Singh, also highlighting the blurring lines between business and leisure travel. “Earlier, there was a clear distinction between business and leisure travellers. Now, there is bleisure. People mix work with leisure, take shorter but more frequent breaks and look for hotels that can support both needs,” he explains.DESPITE GEOPOLITICAL AND WEATHER-RELATED CHALLENGES, THE SECTOR SHOWED RESILIENCE AND FINISHED STRONG IN 2025
VISHA L SINGH113BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.com WE ARE INVESTING IN LEADERSHIP PIPELINES, CROSS-TRAINING AND INITIATIVES TO ENSURE WORK-LIFE BALANCEadds. Beyond rooms, the property is adding new social and experiential spaces. “We will soon have a brand-new outdoor space called The Cabanas. It will be a Mediterranean-inspired event space as well as an evening snack and lounge space, with water bodies and a beautifully designed layout,” Singh shares.Technology is also being deployed to enhance convenience without replacing human interaction. “We are now mobile key enabled, going paperless at the front desk, and introducing digital and eco bills. Technology is being used to enhance efficiency and personalisation, but without losing the human touch,” he explains.OUTLOOK FOR 2026 AND PRIORITIES AHEADLooking ahead, Singh remains optimistic about the Indian hospitality sector, while acknowledging the need for agility. “India will continue to be one of the fastest-growing hospitality markets. We are a resilient economy, but we must be mindful of global geopolitical shocks. We are not insulated from them,” he feels. At the property level, Singh outlined four clear priorities for the year ahead. “The top priority will be agility and resilience. We must be prepared for uncertainty with flexible strategies and diversified demand segments,” the GM states.Talent development is the second pillar. “Manpower remains a critical challenge. We are investing in leadership pipelines, cross-training and initiatives like Life on Time to ensure work-life balance,” Singh says. And then, technology adoption and sustainability complete the framework. “Technology will continue to drive efficiency and personalisation, while sustainability must move beyond messaging to measurable impact,” he says, adding, “Guests today look for responsible hotels, and that is something we take very seriously.”As JW Marriott Aerocity, New Delhi continues to refine its product, processes and positioning, the emphasis remains clear. It is about understanding the new traveller, delivering meaningful experiences and building a hotel operation that is resilient, relevant and future-ready. ATTRACTING NEW-AGE GUESTS THROUGH EXPERIENCETo attract and retain this evolving guest profile, JW Marriott Aerocity New Delhi is sharpening its focus on experience design while upgrading its core product. “We are continuously upgrading our product, whether it is guest rooms, F&B spaces or technology, while keeping guest satisfaction at the centre of everything we do,” informs Singh. The hotel has recently completed a comprehensive renovation of all 509 rooms. “It is a full refurbishment, from flooring and wallpaper to upholstery and functionality. It gives a fresh, uplifted look and feel,” he
F&B WORLD114BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comBY BWH BUREAUIN 2026, F&B WILL DEFINE HOW HOTELS ATTRACT, ENGAGE AND RETAIN MODERN TRAVELLERS, SAYS KUNAL SHANKER, GENERAL MANAGER, NOVOTEL MUMBAI JUHU BEACHCONSCIOUS BOLDNESS:F&B’S POWER IN 2026In 2026, the food and beverage sector has decisively evolved beyond its traditional supportive role in hotels. Guests no longer settle for basic lodging. In fact, food and beverage drives 35 to 50 per cent of revenue in top properties, yet many treat it as an afterthought. A combination of heightened awareness about sustainability, a resurgence of pride in local food traditions, changing wellness priorities, and a digitally savvy, value-conscious guest is driving this transformation. For hotels, this presents a crucial moment. Beachfront properties already practice this philosophy and here is an analysis that answers the question systematically. SUSTAINABILITY IS NO LONGER A STATEMENT Sustainability will no longer be a talking point, but rather an expected. Urban, well-travelled guests are significantly more aware of where their food originates from, how it is produced, and the impact it has. Hotels can source seasonal produce from regional farms, sustainable seafood from local waters, and ethical meats with minimal food miles. Consider a beachfront property pulling prawns from 50 km away. Ingredients such as Manipur black rice, Northeast bamboo shoots, indigenous greens, and regional grains are no longer seen as niche experiments. For hotels, this shift makes practical sense as well: shorter supply chains, fresher produce, and meals that truly reflect their location. Initiatives like in-house water bottling, composting, smart portion control, and local supplier collaborations resonate when they are visible and measurable. Moreover, this practice cuts costs through stable partnerships and appeals to customers who prioritise ethics.
KUNAL SHANKER115BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comBOLD FLAVOURS MAGNETISE CROWDSIndia’s greatest culinary asset has always been its diversity, and regional storytelling is experiencing a significant rebirth in 2026. Indian palates, sharpened by global travel and fusion trends, now demand complex layers of spice, texture, and technique that honour regional roots while embracing innovation. Random combinations are giving way to intentional integrations, in which Indian ingredients meet foreign approaches in a natural manner. Cuisines from Nagaland, Manipur, Odisha, Uttarakhand, and the tribal regions are gaining popularity in metropolitan restaurants. Fermented products, smoked meats, bamboo shoot dishes, and heritage grains are no longer considered strange; they are becoming more desirable. Bold flavours thus answer our question decisively, pulling crowds inward and setting the stage for sustainable scaling.WELLNESS SHIFTS FROM DIETING TO NOURISHMENTThe previous years were dominated by calorie tracking and short-lived diet trends, 2026 focuses on balance, sustenance, and long-term well-being. Ragi, bajra, sorghum, and millets are being reintroduced in new and appealing ways, including breakfast bowls, baked goods, desserts, and comforting main dishes. Ingredients like as ghee have returned their place, now offered through artisanal sourcing and careful application rather than excess. Protein-forward recipes remain popular, but the emphasis is on integration rather than disruption. Guests seek enrichment without foregoing familiar flavours. Zero-proof cocktails, functional drinks, and wellness-focused beverages are becoming standard offerings, particularly among weekday diners and health-conscious customers. MINDFUL ENGINEERING ENSURE SCALABILITYA food is no longer rated solely on its taste, but also on its appearance, explanation, and placement within a wider story. Chefs cross-utilise ingredients across outlets, transforming peels into stocks and fish bones into broths while sizeable portions align precisely with guest demand. Guests want to know the dish’s origin, inspiration, technique and scalability repositions the hotel entirely.INDIA’S GREATEST CULINARY ASSET HAS ALWAYS BEEN ITS DIVERSITY
F&B WORLD116BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comREPOSITION HOTELS AS DESTINATIONSIn 2026, guests actively move towards brands that reflect their values. Texture, temperature, layering, and contrast have a greater impact on how people recall a meal. These sensory elements provide depth without requiring excessive complexity. Portion sizes and formats are also changing. Shared meals, tasting menus, tapas-style options, and selected beverage flights promote exploration while supporting conscious consumption. For hotels, these layouts increase perceived value and stimulate menu exploration. Conscious menus underpin these events, ensuring unique offerings that spark social media shares and amplify reach. Hotels thereby shed their lodging-only image, with beach resorts booking solid on F&B reputation alone. LASTING GUEST LOYALTYEmotional resonance delivers the ultimate proof. A personalised bold dish, complete with its sourcing backstory, forges bonds that extend far beyond checkout, while consistent quality and service cultivate return habits. Families plan reunions around signature menus, couples celebrate milestones beachside, and glowing reviews flood platforms, lifting repeat rates. This loyalty closes the flywheel, and guests become lifelong advocates, sustaining the cycle of growthLOOKING AHEADIn 2026, India’s food and beverage environment will be shaped by multiple trends as the Conscious flavors unequivocally turn F&B into your 2026 competitive weapon. It is shaped by convergence, where sustainability coexists with pleasure, tradition and innovation collide, and guests become active participants rather than passive customers. FHRAI data underscores this, showing adopters outperform peers by 35 percent. Leaders must thus act decisively. The route forward for hotels is to remain relevant while maintaining their authenticity. This means that they need to audit supply chains, innovate menus boldly, launch pilot events, and track ROI rigorously. In India’s booming hospitality sector, hesitation cedes market share. Therefore, bold steps are needed.
THE LALIT117BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comBY BWH BUREAUTURNING GASTRONOMY INTO A LOYALTY EXPERIENCEAt The LaLiT, food has been central to how the brand defines luxury itself. Over the years, its restaurants have helped shape India’s evolving fine-dining conversation, blending culinary craft with immersive storytelling. From the award-winning OKO, a destination for refined Pan-Asian cuisine to Baluchi, known for its nuanced interpretation of pan-Indian flavours, the Group’s culinary portfolio reflects both range and depth. All-day dining finds its anchor in the ever-popular 24/7 Restaurant, while the lively 24/7 Bar adds a contemporary social edge. Icons such as the historic bakery at The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata and the plant-forward menu at Le Petit further underscore the group’s diverse gastronomic canvas, replicated across its 12 distinctive properties.This culinary philosophy has been driven THE LALIT EXTENDS ITS FOOD PHILOSOPHY INTO A MORE IMMERSIVE GUEST ENGAGEMENTby a clear belief: Gastronomy is not an adjunct to hospitality but one of its defining pillars. Across the portfolio, the Group has continually introduced fresh food narratives – spotlighting lesserknown regional cuisines, curating limited-edition pop-ups with Michelin-starred chefs, and working closely with sommeliers and mixologists to craft thoughtful pairings. The result is a dining ecosystem where service, design, and flavour converge, turning meals into experiences that linger well beyond the table.Building on this legacy, the Group is now deepening its engagement with its most loyal diners through the launch of The LaLiT Dining, a premium annual membership tailored for gastronomic enthusiasts. Conceived as a prepaid programme centred on dining privileges, it offers members preferential pricing, curated benefits, and a suite of complimentary vouchers designed to encourage exploration across the brand’s restaurants.More than a loyalty initiative, the programme signals a strategic shift toward cultivating a community around the brand’s food philosophy. By combining value with recognition and exclusive access, the initiative aims to ensure that guests who return for the cuisine find their relationship with The LaLiT continually enriched – one memorable meal at a time.
BEYOND BORDERS118BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comKENYA OFFERS NOT SPECTACLE ALONE, BUT PRESENCE, PERSPECTIVE AND PROFOUND CONNECTIONA SAFARI WITH SOPA LODGESAmboseli Lake Naivasha Lake Nakuru Masai Mara
SOPA LODGES119BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.com BY BHUVANESH KHANNAKenya awakens before the world fully stirs. The dawn arrives gradually, a gentle wash of amber and rose spilling across savannahs like liquid gold. Acacia trees stand like sentinels against the horizon, their shadows stretching across dust-swirled plains where zebras graze and elephants meander with a quiet majesty. The air carries a blend of earthy warmth and the subtle fragrance of wildflowers, while distant birdcalls—some piercing, some melodic — remind you that life here follows a rhythm far older than any human clock. Since 1986, Sopa Lodges has been synonymous with warm East African hospitality, spectacular settings and thoughtfully curated safari experiences. Each lodge is positioned in a handpicked wilderness location, offering unmatched access to wildlife, sweeping landscapes and the cultural richness of Kenya and Tanzania. In the Maasai language, “sopa” means “hello,” and this spirit of welcome defines every moment — from the traditional tribal greetings to the attentive service delivered by teams who know the land intimately. From Nairobi, where the pulse of modern life collides with the call of the wild, to the northern reaches of Samburu, where arid plains stretch into infinity, this journey was a choreography of landscapes, wildlife, and culture. Sopa Lodges orchestrated every step, with their collection of lodges serving as portals into Kenya’s diverse ecosystems. Each property feels intimately tied to its surroundings — ambassadors of the local environment, the neighbouring tribes and the wildlife that roams unhindered. IndiGo Airlines facilitated seamless movement between the distant regions, while Toyota Land Cruisers — open-topped, robust, and ready for adventure — became my trusted companions, granting panoramic vistas during game drives and winding road journeys alike. There is a peculiar magic in travelling across Kenya by road and air. One moment, the horizon shimmers over the glassy waters of Lake Naivasha; the next, a mirage of pink flamingoes dances across Lake Nakuru. In the Masai Mara, golden grasslands ripple like waves under the wind, punctuated by the sudden, explosive presence of a pride of lions or a herd of elephants lumbering across the savannah. In Samburu, the arid northern lands offer a stark contrast: rugged rocky outcrops, thorny scrub, and the vital Ewaso Nyiro River, where the “Samburu Special Five” gather for their morning rituals. Each transition — from the lush southern plains to the arid north — is a lesson in Kenya’s ecological diversity and Sopa’s carefully chosen locations allow travellers to witness these contrasts first-hand without compromise. But these lodges are more than mere vantage points. They are immersive stages: spaces where wildlife encounters unfold naturally, where the traditions of local tribes are not performances but shared ways of life, and where the rhythms of the land seep into your consciousness. With versatile conference spaces, personalised event planning, and a reputation for excellent vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine, the brand is both an Masai Mara Samburu
BEYOND BORDERS120BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comThe journey south from Nairobi winds through undulating plains and small towns, gradually peeling away the layers of modern life to reveal something older, wilder and utterly mesmerising. Then, suddenly, the vista unfolds: the vast expanse of Amboseli National Park, golden grasslands punctuated by marshes and acacia trees, with Mt Kilimanjaro’s snowcapped peak rising in the distance. Though Kilimanjaro belongs to neighbouring Tanzania, there is no better vantage point than from the Kenyan side; here, the mountain seems impossibly close yet impossibly grand, a silent guardian over the plains below.Life in Amboseli is dictated by elephants, whose herds move with a deliberate, almost ceremonial rhythm. Watching them wade through shallow marshes in the morning mist is an experience that feels suspended in time, as if nature itself has paused to perform a quiet ballet. Zebras and giraffes mingle with their fellow inhabitants, the air rich with the subtle scents of earth and wild grasses, and the distant call of exotic birds punctuating the quiet.Amboseli Sopa Lodge is positioned perfectly within this tableau, a harmonious blend SAFARI EXPERIENCES: Early morning and late afternoon game drives for elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras. Observation Hill for sweeping park panoramas and photography. Guided Moran walks, explaining the Maasai’s relationship to wildlife and land.DINING & F&B: Lunch at the main restaurant with local and Continental cuisine. Cocktails and sundowners at Oltepesi Deck overlooking Mt Kilimanjaro. Boma dinners featuring Maasai dances, storytelling and local dishes.of rustic charm and comfort. Verandas open onto sweeping views of grasslands where wildlife roams freely. The rooms are light-filled, airy, and designed to make the landscape the centrepiece of every glance. Mornings begin with the aroma of Kenyan tea, poured steaming into cups as the first light illuminates the plains and the distant glimmer of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers.Hidden within the gardens of Amboseli Sopa Lodge is its most unexpected treasure — the Hemingway Cottage, a beautifully restored villa shaped uncannily like the map of Africa. Legend has it that this was where Ernest Hemingway himself once stayed during his time in Amboseli, drawn by the stillness of the plains and the magnetic pull of Kilimanjaro rising just beyond the acacias. The cottage still carries that old-world safari charm — broad verandas, quiet corners, and a front-row seat to the mountain’s shifting moods, from rose-gold dawns to cloudveiled afternoons. Even today, it remains a sanctuary for anyone seeking the same solitude and inspiration that captivated one of the world’s greatest storytellers.Walking alongside a Maasai Moran, I came to understand that the relationship exceptional safari host and a trusted hospitality partner. The Maasai greeting, Karibu, meaning “welcome,” echoed through every lodge, from Amboseli to Naivasha, Nakuru, Masai Mara and Samburu. It is a simple word, yet it carries profound weight — an assurance that the experience here honours both guest and host, wildlife and human, modern comfort and timeless tradition.Within this balance lies the heart of Kenya. Here, luxury is not measured by excess but by attentiveness: the gentle care of a guide who knows the habits of every animal in his domain, the warmth of a lodge staff member sharing stories of local lore, the quiet joy of witnessing a sunrise behind Mt Kilimanjaro’s snowcapped peak while elephants graze below. Kenya is a place that demands presence; it rewards those who observe closely, listen carefully, and allow themselves to be carried by the landscape’s narrative.This journey, framed by the thoughtful hospitality of Sopa Lodges and the precise logistics of IndiGo, was not just a safari—it was an awakening. Every lodge, every road, every interaction with a tribe or animal contributed to a mosaic of impressions, each vibrant and singular. As the wheels of the Land Cruiser crunched along redearth roads, and as the plane lifted over endless horizons, I realised that Kenya is less a destination than a dialogue: a conversation between land, wildlife, culture and the human heart. AMBOSELI SOPA LODGEWHERE ELEPHANTS WALK IN THE SHADOW OF MT KILIMANJARO The Room
SOPA LODGES121BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comThe Rift Valley unfurls like a painter’s canvas as the road winds toward Lake Naivasha. The lake stretches wide and calm, its freshwaters shimmering under the sun, reflecting the sky’s azure with a mirror-like serenity. Hippos surface with playful snorts, their backs breaking the glassy surface, while fish eagles dive with precision, wings slicing through the light as cormorants line the reeds in quiet clusters. Sopa’s Naivasha Resort perches gracefully on the lake’s edge, a sanctuary where the clamour of the outside world seems to dissolve, leaving only water, light and the distant calls of wildlife.LAKE NAIVASHA SOPA RESORTSERENITY ON CRESCENT ISLAND WATERSTRIBE FOCUS: MAASAIKey Wildlife: Elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, diverse birdlife.Reserve: Amboseli National ParkLocation: Edge of Amboseli National Park (250 km from Nairobi).Access: 4 hour drive or a 30 minute flight to Amboseli airstrip plus 1 hour transfer.Accommodation: 84 rooms – including honeymoon suite, presidential suite, wheelchair-accessible rooms.Conferencing: 2 rooms (largest: 110 pax theatre style).Facilities: Bars, lounge, restaurant, outdoor dining terrace, swimming pool, craft market, gift shop, wifi (public areas).Activities: Game drives, nature walks, bush dining, card and board games.between the Maasai and this land is centuries-old. Their knowledge of wildlife patterns, waterholes, and grazing routes rivals any modern map, and their stories illuminate the delicate balance between people and nature. Observation Hill, a short climb from the lodge, offers a panoramic perspective of Amboseli’s marshes, herds, and endless sky — a place both for photography and quiet reflection.Evenings at the lodge are a celebration of culture and community. Boma dinners bring the Maasai to life, their dances and songs narrating histories that are as enduring as the mountain itself. As the sun sets behind Kilimanjaro, turning the snow-capped peak into molten gold, I felt the full weight of Amboseli’s magic: a convergence of wildlife, culture, and landscape that is simultaneously raw, refined, and unforgettable. Papa HemingwayThe Hemingways Bar The Poolside
BEYOND BORDERS122BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.com Boarding a boat, I felt the lake’s pulse: the gentle splash of water, the low rumble of hippos submerged just beneath the surface, and the curious eyes of waterbucks peering from the shore. Crescent Island, a short and scenic ride away, offers a unique experience: a predator-free peninsula where wildlife roams freely. Walking among the giraffes nibbling acacia leaves, zebras ambling in easy herds, and the occasional warthog or waterbuck crossing our path, I felt a rare intimacy with Africa’s fauna — a closeness so vivid that it seemed lifted from the pages of a SAFARI EXPERIENCES: Morning and afternoon boat trips on Lake Naivasha for aquatic wildlife. Crescent Island walking safaris for non-predatory herbivores, including giraffes, zebras, and waterbucks. Birdwatching excursions highlighting flamingos, fish eagles, cormorants and other resident species.DINING & F&B: Lakeside meals at the main restaurant. Cocktail sessions on the deck overlooking the lake. Indian-themed dinners under the open sky, blending local ingredients with international flavour.TRIBE FOCUS: LOCAL RIFT VALLEY COMMUNITIES; MAASAI-INSPIRED WELCOMEKey Wildlife: Hippos, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, waterbucks, over 400 bird species.Lodge Features: Spacious rooms with lake views, restaurant, lounge, nature trails, gardens rich in birdlife.Reserve: Crescent Island Game SanctuaryLocation: Southern shore of Lake Naivasha (90 km from Nairobi).Access: 1.5 hour drive from Nairobi.Accommodation: 82 rooms – including suites, inter-connecting rooms, wheelchairaccessible rooms.Conferencing: 6 rooms (largest: 70 pax theatre style).Facilities: Bars, lounge, restaurant, outdoor boma dining, swimming pool, gym, gift shop, in-room TVs, wifi (public areas), expansive event lawns.Activities: Boat rides, Crescent Island walks, birdwatching, nature trails, biking, archery, Boma dining.storybook, yet utterly real. The landscape is punctuated by flowering acacias and grasses swaying in the breeze, making each step a meditative journey into the heart of nature. The lodge itself is a seamless extension of this tranquillity. Spacious rooms with lake-facing windows frame everchanging vistas: a morning mist rolling over the water, flocks of flamingos rising in elegant formations, or the sun dipping low, painting the horizon in molten gold. Gardens hum with birdlife; kingfishers flit from branch to branch, while hornbills perch in the shade of flowering shrubs. Culinary experiences at Naivasha are as thoughtfully curated as the wildlife encounters. Lakeside lunches bring local ingredients into harmony with international flavours, while sundowners on the deck allow the wind to carry the scents of water lilies, wet earth, and good food. Evenings are a gentle celebration: open-air Indian-inspired dinners beneath a canopy of stars, each meal a bridge between local flavours and worldly cuisine, the lake providing a reflective, meditative backdrop. The Zebra GardenThe Boatride Topdown Pool AreaThe Honeymoon Room The Waterbucks and Rooms
SOPA LODGES123BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comContinuing along the Rift Valley, the shimmering expanse of Lake Nakuru appears like a gem cradled by rolling green savannahs. During the peak season, its alkaline waters are transformed into a surreal pink canvas as thousands of flamingos gather, their delicate forms reflecting in the calm water. The lodge itself crowns a hill overlooking this spectacle, offering uninterrupted views of the lake below, the surrounding woodland, and the distant ridges that frame the Rift Valley. The scent of fresh earth after a brief rain, mingling with the distant trumpet of elephants or the grunt of a hippo, creates an olfactory tapestry that is uniquely Nakuru.From the lodge’s terraces, the rhythm of the park reveals itself gradually. Early morning drive along the Lake Nakuru National Park brought encounters with rhinos grazing quietly, Rothschild’s giraffes surveying the horizon, and lions lounging beneath the shade of acacia trees. The interplay between predator and prey feels ancient, yet intimately observed from the safety of the open-top Toyota Land Cruisers. Every glance across the lake invites reflection — the pink shimmer of flamingos taking flight, the mirrored sky meeting the lake’s edge, and the delicate movements of warthogs and impalas along the shore.SAFARI EXPERIENCES: Game drives along the lake’s edge to spot flamingos, rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, lions and leopards. Observation from Lion Hill viewpoints, offering sweeping panoramas of the lake and park. Guided birdwatching sessions for enthusiasts and casual observers alike.DINING & F&B: Oldonyo Restaurant offers African and Continental dishes prepared with local ingredients. Evening cocktails and terrace dining for sunset views over the lake.LAKE NAKURU SOPA LODGEFLAMINGOS, RHINOS & THE GREAT RIFT VALLEYTRIBE FOCUS: NEARBY KIKUYU/MAASAIKey Wildlife: Flamingos, rhinos, giraffes, lions, hippos, over 400 bird species.Lodge Features: Hilltop cottages, restaurant, pool, panoramic verandas, gardens rich in birdlife.Reserve: Lake Nakuru National ParkLocation: Lake Nakuru National Park (165 km from Nairobi; 21 km from park gate).Access: 2.5 hour drive or a 30 minute flight to Naishi airstrip plus 15 minute transfer.Accommodation: 60 rooms including wheelchair-accessible rooms.Facilities: Bar, lounge, restaurant, swimming pool, gift shop, wifi (public areas).Activities: Game drives, birdwatching, nature walks, board games, archery.The Pool and Common AreaThe Dining AreaThe Double BedroomThe Reception
BEYOND BORDERS124BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.com
SOPA LODGES125BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comphotos Bhuvanesh Khanna
BEYOND BORDERS126BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comThe Masai Mara unfolds gradually: rolling grasslands dotted with acacias, herds of wildebeest grazing, and a horizon so wide it seems infinite. From the vantage of Mara Sopa Lodge, perched atop the Oloolaimutia Hills in traditional roundhouses, the sweeping panorama reveals one of the world’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. Known globally for the Great Migration, the Mara becomes a living, breathing theatre from June to November, when over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse between Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara, negotiating the Mara River twice in a breathtaking spectacle of survival. While the migration continually loops between the two countries, the best and most immersive sightings are on the Kenyan side, where the open The lodge itself balances rustic elegance and modern comfort. Hilltop cottages are designed to merge seamlessly with the terrain, each with panoramic verandas perfect for observing sunrise and sunset. The gardens are alive with birdlife; fish eagles patrol the skies, while sunbirds and weavers flit from branch to branch. Inside, the Oldonyo Restaurant presents both African and continental fare, its flavours rooted in local produce yet elevated for a global palate. Evenings at the lodge carry a gentle rhythm: terrace cocktails at sunset, the lake shimmering in shades of rose and gold, accompanied by the distant, haunting calls of birds returning to roost. Cultural encounters are woven subtly into the experience. Local guides share insights into the nearby Kikuyu and Maasai communities, their stories of coexistence with wildlife echoing the delicate balance of Nakuru’s ecosystems. A guided birdwatching walk allows intimate observation of over 400 bird species, from pelicans and cormorants to the occasional flamingo straggler still lingering along the shore. Each moment here is both educational and meditative, a reminder that conservation and natural beauty exist hand in hand.MASAI MARA SOPA LODGEINTO AFRICA’S GREATEST SAVANNAH THEATREThe Pool Area
SOPA LODGES127BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comTRIBE FOCUS: MAASAIKey Wildlife: Big Five, zebras, wildebeest, diverse birds and lions.Lodge Features: Round-house cottages, pool, restaurant, sundowner decks.Reserve: Masai Mara National Reserve.Location: Masai Mara National Reserve (250 km from Nairobi).Access: 6 hour drive or a 1 hour flight to Keekorok airstrip plus 1 hour transfer.Accommodation: 101 rooms including suites, honeymoon suite, interconnecting rooms.Conferencing: 1 room (70 pax theatre style).Facilities: Bar, lounge, restaurant, outdoor boma dining, swimming pool, gift shop, TV in Ol’murrani bar, wifi (public areas).Activities: Game drives, hot-air balloon safari, birdwatching, bush dining, Moran walks, Boma dinners, craft markets, migration sightings, Maasai village visit.SAFARI EXPERIENCES: Morning and evening game drives for predator observation and migration tracking. Guided Moran walks explaining the Maasai’s relationship to the land and wildlife. Visits to a Maasai village to witness daily life, livestock, and crafts. Boma dinners and craft markets for immersive cultural experiences.DINING & F&B: Oldonyo Restaurant provides multi-cuisine dining. Entalala Deck sundowners for expansive savannah views. Evening Boma dinners with Maasai mixed dance and storytelling.savannahs and lodge access allow close encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife.Early morning game drives bring intimate encounters: a lioness beneath a thorn tree, a cheetah crouched in tall grass, and herds of wildebeest and zebras moving rhythmically across the plains. Each sighting feels deeply alive, the air charged with the pulse of predators and prey.A visit to a nearby Maasai village offers a different kind of immersion. Walking among the Maasai, I witnessed their daily routines: the structure of their round huts, tending of livestock, artisanal crafts, and the trades that sustain their community. Their warmth and openness, punctuated by laughter and song, underscore the intimate connection between the people and the land they protect.Guided Moran walks deepen this understanding, showing how Maasai warriors coexist with nature, respecting boundaries while ensuring the sustainability of both wildlife and human life. Back at the lodge, the Entalala Deck offers sundowners with golden light spilling across the savannah, while evening Boma dinners immerse guests in Maasai culture — songs, dances, and storytelling weaving tales of courage, community, and centuries-old traditions. Every moment at Mara Sopa Lodge resonates with history, natural wonder, and the raw spectacle of Africa’s greatest savannah theatre. The Champagne BreakfastThe BedroomThe Bonfire Dinner
BEYOND BORDERS128BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comSAMBURU SOPA LODGEA JOURNEY INTO KENYA’S NORTHERN TRIBAL LANDSThe northern road from Nairobi winds through changing landscapes until reaching Nanyuki, 120 km before Samburu, where the Equator subtly bisects the land. Crossing here is a quiet, almost ceremonial reminder of the world’s geometry: stepping from the southern hemisphere into the northern, the sun casts subtle shifts in shadow, and the line itself seems both tangible and magical. It is a perfect prelude to the stark beauty of Kenya’s northern plains, where the arid terrain meets the lifeblood of the Ewaso Nyiro River, which rises on the west side of Mount Kenya and flows north, then east and finally south-east, passing through Somalia where it joins the Jubba River sustaining a unique and vibrant ecosystem.Samburu Sopa Lodge sits gracefully within this landscape, its TRIBE FOCUS: SAMBURUKey Wildlife: Samburu Special Five (Grevy’s Zebra, Somali Ostrich, Gerenuk, Beisa Oryx & Reticulated Giraffe), elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, 450-plus birds, Kirk’s dik-dik, warthogs.Experience Highlights: Game drives, village visits, bush dinners, stargazing, wildlife at the lodge door.Reserve: Samburu National Reserve.Location: Samburu National Reserve (350 km from Nairobi).Access: 6 hour drive or a 50 minute flight to Samburu Kalama airstrip plus 45 minute transfer.Accommodation: 60 rooms including wheelchair-accessible inter-connecting rooms.Facilities: Bar, lounge, restaurant, outdoor dining, swimming pool, gift shop, wifi (public areas).Activities: Game drives, birdwatching, nature walks, bush dining, board games, telescopes and planetarium.SAFARI EXPERIENCES: Game drives along the Ewaso Nyiro River for Samburu Special Five and other wildlife. Village visits for authentic tribal interaction. Planetarium-guided stargazing and telescope sessions under the northern sky.DINING & F&B: Main restaurant offering local and continental cuisine. Sunset cocktails at the waterhole. Bush dining and bonfire storytelling experiences.thatched cottages opening to views of a central waterhole. Here, wildlife often comes almost to your doorstep: Kirk’s dik-dik, the tiniest antelope, flits across the garden paths; elephants amble with quiet majesty; warthogs (pumbas) root around the grounds; and the rare Samburu Special Five graze or drink in plain sight. Each moment feels intimate, a direct connection to the pulse of the northern wilderness.Early morning and late afternoon game drives reveal the richness of the Samburu National Reserve, with lions, leopards, cheetahs, reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebra and other extraordinary wildlife. A highlight came on our last hour leaving the lodge for Nairobi, when a lion and his two lionesses lounged regally across a distant ridge — a quiet, powerful farewell from the savannah.Cultural immersion at Samburu Sopa Lodge is equally remarkable. Nights under the vast northern sky offer unparalleled stargazing. Equipped with high-powered telescopes and an in-house planetarium, the lodge transforms astronomy into an intimate experience, tracing constellations, planets, and cosmic wonders with clarity that feels almost within reach.Dining and relaxation mirror the setting: the main restaurant blends local flavours with continental cuisine, sunset cocktails at the waterhole frame golden skies, and bush dining with bonfires provides storytelling under a canopy of stars, weaving together nature, culture and comfort. The Astronomer TelescopeThe Rooms
SOPA LODGES129BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comA CURATED JOURNEY THROUGH KENYAFrom Amboseli’s elephant-rich marshlands to Samburu’s arid northern plains, this journey through Kenya with Sopa Lodges and IndiGo Airlines offered a layered experience of nature, culture, and luxury. Kenya itself is a tapestry of landscapes, from rolling savannahs and shimmering lakes to arid northern plains, populated by people whose warmth, resilience, and rich tribal heritage define the character of the land. The Maasai, Samburu, Kikuyu, and other local communities share their stories, traditions, and daily rhythms, making each encounter a window into lives that have coexisted with wildlife for centuries.Sopa Lodges, as hosts, curate each stay with an attention to detail that transcends comfort. Their properties are positioned to provide unparalleled access to wildlife while offering modern amenities seamlessly integrated with local architecture and culture. Each morning, the call of the wild becomes the alarm, each evening, the sounds of the bush — the trumpeting of elephants, the distant roar of lions, the flurry of birds — become the lullaby.IndiGo Airlines connects travellers from India to Nairobi daily, ensuring that the gateway to Kenya is effortless and comfortable. Once on the ground, the safari experience comes alive in customised Toyota Land Cruisers, driven by guides whose intimate knowledge of terrain, wildlife behaviour, and even individual animals transforms every drive into an adventure. They spot hidden nests, elusive cats, and playful herds before even the untrained eye can glimpse them, turning each game drive into a revelation.The safari encounters themselves are mesmerizing. Herds of elephants meander through Amboseli’s marshes; the reticulated giraffes and Grevy’s zebras of Samburu graze near waterholes; lions lounge lazily under acacia trees; flamingos crowd the shores of Lake Nakuru, their collective blush mirrored in the lake’s waters; and the majestic pulse of the Great Migration in the Masai Mara brings the savannah to life with thundering hooves and splashing rivers. Each sighting, each moment in the open, feels curated yet astonishingly raw, a balance of education, observation, and sheer awe.Food and beverage experiences are equally immersive. Each lodge elevates dining with fresh, locally inspired cuisine, paired with spectacular settings—from Boma dinners with Maasai storytelling and dances, to lakeside cocktails on Naivasha, to terrace dining in Nakuru while flamingos gather in the sunset light. Every meal becomes part of the safari, blending taste, place, and culture into one holistic experience.THE TRIBAL WELCOME – A SOPA TRADITION ACROSS ALL FIVE LOCATIONSWhat stayed with me across all five Sopa Lodges — Amboseli, Naivasha, Nakuru, the Masai Mara and Samburu — was the authentic tribal welcome that greeted us every time we arrived. It was never staged; it was heartfelt. Drums, rhythmic chants, bead-adorned dancers, and voices rising in unison created an atmosphere that felt more spiritual than ceremonial. After long hours on the road or in the bush, these welcomes were grounding—an immediate reminder that Kenya’s greatest warmth comes not only from its landscapes or wildlife, but from its people. Each reception felt like an embrace from the community itself, a bridge into the culture, and a joyful signal that we had arrived in a place where tradition still lives in everyday gestures. Kenya is not merely a destination — it is a living narrative, a mosaic of ecosystems, people, and traditions, intertwined with deliberate care and curated accessibility. Traveling through it lodge by lodge, one senses the heartbeat of the land, the voices of its people, and the timeless rhythm of life in the wild.This journey, facilitated by Sopa Lodges, IndiGo and expert safari guides, leaves one not just as a visitor, but as a witness to the elegance, diversity, and soul of Kenya.Bhuvanesh Khanna was a guest of Sopa LodgesThe Grevy Zebra The Giraffes The Oryx
BEYOND BORDERS130BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.com BY SAURABH TANKHACradled on Mauritius’ untouched east coast, Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita is the kind of place where the island reveals itself slowly – through its still lagoons, rustling palm canopies and landscapes painted in impossible shades of green and blue. The resort feels less like a property and more like a private world, spread across a vast sanctuary of gardens, waterways and powder-soft coastline. Villas, each secluded behind tropical foliage and complete with their own pools, dissolve the boundaries between indoor ease and the island’s open-air calm, inviting guests into a rhythm that feels both deeply luxurious and instinctively natural. Days unfold unhurriedly: Sunrise over the lagoon, golf on the Ernie Els-designed course, paddleboarding through mangrove channels or simply surrendering to the slow, sun-warmed pace of the east. As evening falls, the resort’s culinary landscape – shaped by the island’s Creole, French, Indian and Chinese influences – becomes a journey in itself, carrying the flavours and stories of Mauritius to the table. At the property, luxury is not performed; it is lived quietly, intimately, and at the pace of the island’s own gentle heartbeat.FOUR SEASONS RESORT MAURITIUS AT ANAHITA OFFERS PRIVATE SANCTUARIES, HOLISTIC WELLNESS, CURATED ADVENTURES, EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, AND UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIESLUXURY IN HARMONY WITH NATUREThe Resort
FOUR SEASONS RESORT MAURITIUS 131BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comADAPTING TO TRAVELLER TRENDSFour Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita has evolved to meet changing traveller preferences, led by its recent renovation, which refreshed all villas, residences and public spaces with light, natural materials that connect guests to the island. Wellness now takes center stage, with holistic spa treatments, meditation, and mindful activities designed to reconnect body, mind, and spirit. Experiential travel has expanded, offering immersive cultural, culinary, and nature-based experiences. “Additionally, the resort caters to digital nomads and workationers, providing serene, well-designed spaces for guests to work while enjoying the island’s tranquility,” shares General Manager Martin Dell.BALANCING CORE REVENUE STREAMSRooms remain the strongest revenue stream at Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, particularly after the recent renovation that elevated the guest experience. Other areas are seeing significant growth: the Oseyan Spa attracts wellness-focussed travellers, while the seven new dining concepts boost F&B performance for both inhouse guests and local visitors. Social and celebratory groups, alongside families staying in residences, add further revenue. Weddings and MICE are supported by upgraded facilities and curated experiences. As Dell notes, “our goal is to grow every segment with the same commitment to quality.” By balancing investment across rooms, wellness, F&B and events, the resort sustains a diversified revenue mix and strong overall performance while delivering the luxury expected of the Four Seasons brand.OPTIMISING ROI IN LUXURYFour Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita leverages a diverse geographic mix, ensuring strong year-round occupancy. Exceeding guest expectations through ultra-luxury service remains a key driver of loyalty and repeat business. The Indian market benefits from tailored offerings, including authentic Indian cuisine prepared by our dedicated chef, enhancing F&B revenue and creating a sense of home. This, combined with immersive experiences, wellness programs and familyfriendly accommodations, strengthens both revenue and guest TECHNOLOGY SHOULD QUIETLY EMPOWER, NOT REPLACE, GENUINE HOSPITALITYsatisfaction. “Our strategy is to maximise returns by elevating the guest journey at every touchpoint. By integrating market diversification, exceptional service and culturally resonant offerings, the resort optimises ROI while maintaining its position as a premier tropical luxury destination,” says Dell.EXCELLENCE IN REMOTE OPERATIONSOperational excellence in an island resort comes from balancing personalised service with smart, unobtrusive systems. As a tropical beach destination, it remains intentionally light on technology, allowing the natural environment and human connection to take centre stage. At the same time, guest-experience tools and digital platforms streamline operations behind the scenes and ensure quick, seamless service. Guests can communicate instantly through chat-based requests. For those seeking a deeper sense of escape, the resort encourages digital detox stays, giving guests the option to disconnect entirely and enjoy the island’s tranquillity. He adds, “Efficiency must enhance, not overshadow guest experience. This balance keeps operations smooth while preserving the authentic, restorative experience travellers expect.”General Manager Martin Dell
BEYOND BORDERS132BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comENHANCING STAYS THROUGH TECHNOLOGYTechnology at the resort plays a supportive yet unobtrusive role, enhancing comfort while preserving the human connection that defines Four Seasons service. The extensive renovation offered a powerful opportunity for reconnection and renewal, integrating modern systems that elevate convenience without compromising the island’s natural serenity. Subtle in-room enhancements, intuitive lighting and climate controls, and seamless mobile concierge tools make it easier for guests to personalise their stay. Behind the scenes, technology supports smoother operations — from efficient communication platforms to systems that helps the resort anticipate guest needs. “Technology should quietly empower, not replace, genuine hospitality. The focus remains on ultra-luxury service, using innovation thoughtfully to build the next generation of loyal guests who value both convenience and the warmth of Four Seasons care,” emphasisesDell.LONG-TERM VISION The long-term vision for Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita is to be the premier destination for reconnection, renewal and holistic wellbeing, while above all creating longlasting memorable experiences. The recent resort renovation strengthens this vision, offering spaces that blend luxury, serenity and connectivity with the natural environment. The resort aims to provide guests with opportunities to escape and explore nature, flavours and the local culture and cuisine, while also allowing them to detox, recharge and immerse themselves in wellness experiences that engage the body, mind and spirit. Through curated programmes, mindful activities and immersive cultural and nature-based experiences, we want each guest to leave feeling restored and inspired. As Dell puts it, “Our purpose is to create memories that stay with guests long after they leave. Ultimately, the resort seeks to build a loyal community of guests who return for ongoing rejuvenation, discovery and meaningful connections.”The Beach On Île Aux Cerfs And La Plaz Beach GrillErnie Els Golf Course (Anahita Golf)
FOUR SEASONS RESORT MAURITIUS 133BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comINDIA’S STRATEGIC MARKET ROLEThe Indian market is increasingly important to Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, shaping guest mix and strategy. “We see more families and multi-generational groups, drawn to spacious villas, wellness offerings and immersive experiences. Social groups travelling for celebrations, such as birthdays and milestone events, are also rising. Residence villa demand has grown, particularly after the renovation, offering larger spaces and privacy while maintaining connectivity. By tailoring service, culinary options and activities to Indian preferences, the resort strengthens engagement and loyalty,” says the GM.TOP CHOICES FOR INDIAN GUESTSIndian guests at Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita value multi-generational travel, seeking villas and residences that accommodate family groups with both privacy and connection. Culinary experiences are a strong draw; dedicated Indian cuisine offerings allow guests to enjoy familiar flavours alongside local and global specialities. Guests also appreciate cultural and immersive experiences, wellness programmes and excursions that create memorable shared moments. Whether visiting for celebrations, family holidays or extended stays, Indian travellers prioritise personalised service, convenience and comfort. As Dell remarks, “Our Indian guests look for space, authenticity and experiences they can enjoy together.” By combining spacious accommodation, curated activities and culturally resonant dining, the resort delivers memorable visits that encourage repeat travel while strengthening its connection with the Indian market.INDIAN CORPORATE TRAVEL DEMANDThe resort attracts corporate and MICE business from India, and this segment is steadily growing. While the resort traditionally receives social group bookings for celebrations and family gatherings, there is increasing demand for corporate retreats, leadership programmes and incentive travel. The renovated villas and flexible event spaces provide ideal settings for meetings and small conferences, complemented by wellness and leisure offerings. Dell observes, “Indian corporates increasingly value experiences that combine work, leisure and luxury. This trend adds a new dimension to the resort’s Indian market strategy, balancing leisure and corporate demand. By offering tailored experiences that combine productivity, luxury and relaxation, the resort strengthens its appeal to Indian companies and social groups alike, supporting year-round occupancy and diversified revenue streams.”EVOLVING INDIA-MAURITIUS CONNECTIONOver the next three-five years, Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita expects the relationship with the Indian market to grow stronger, reflecting deep cultural and economic ties. The resort will continue to honour multi-generational travel, providing villas and residences that offer privacy, space and comfort for families. Expanded culinary experiences, including Indian cuisine and personalised dining, could further strengthen this bond. Anticipated trends include longer stays, wellness-focused trips, social group celebrations and immersive cultural experiences. “We see Indian travellers seeking connection, comfort and curated experiences more than ever. By aligning offerings with these preferences and maintaining high service standards, the resort aims to deepen loyalty, encourage repeat visits, and reinforce Mauritius as a preferred luxury destination for Indian travellers seeking both connection and relaxation,” Dell concludes. The Sunset Over Four Seasons Resort MauritiusThe Aerial View Of Resort’s Main PoolsThe Aerial View Of
134BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comTRAVELBY BHUVANESH KHANNATHE AIRLINE’S RELIABILITY COMPLEMENTS DESTINATION OPERATORS TO CREATE END-TO-END TRAVEL ECOSYSTEMSFor Indian travellers heading to Africa, time, predictability, and comfort matter as much as the destination itself. On the IndiaKenya sector, IndiGo has quietly built an advantage that is hard to ignore: a daily, well-timed Mumbai-Nairobi service that integrates seamlessly with onward safari circuits across Kenya.STRATEGIC AFRICA ENTRYLaunched on August 5, 2023, Nairobi became IndiGo’s 27th international destination, marking the airline’s formal entry into the African continent. The move represented more than route expansion – it signalled a strategic strengthening of travel, trade, and tourism ties between India and Kenya, positioning Nairobi as a natural gateway for Indian travellers exploring East Africa.Flying westward from Mumbai in the early morning, the IndiGo Nairobi service lands at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport around 6 am local time. This arrival window is a significant advantage. Instead of losing an entire day to travel fatigue or late-night arrivals, travellers step into Kenya at the start of the day – refreshed, alert, and ready to move directly into their itinerary. For leisure travellers on tight schedules and for corporate or CXO travellers balancing business commitments, this timing alone makes a compelling case.Equally important is the return leg. Departing Nairobi on the HOW INDIGO IS POWERING INDIA-AFRICA LEISURE AND HOSPITALITY FLOWSsame service and flying eastwards overnight, the flight brings travellers back into Mumbai efficiently, allowing a smooth transition back into work routines without unnecessary disruption. In an era where productivity and time optimisation define premium travel choices, this symmetry of schedules works exceptionally well.IndiGo’s cabin service reinforces its positioning as a dependable international carrier. The crew, both onboard and on the ground, maintain a calm efficiency that seasoned travellers appreciate. Service is courteous, prompt and professional without being intrusive – a tone well aligned with business and frequent travellers. Onboard comfort, clean cabins, and consistent service standards ensure that mediumhaul travel remains predictable and stress-free.IN KENYA, ON GROUND WITH INDIGOWhat further strengthens the experience is IndiGo’s on-ground staff at Nairobi, who can extend support upon request with arrival formalities, baggage handling, and smooth passenger movement through the airport. This presence is reassuring, particularly for first-time Africa travellers, and reflects IndiGo’s understanding that international travel does not end at touchdown.Kenya itself has become increasingly accessible for Indian travellers. The online Kenyan visa process is straightforward, efficient,
135BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comINDIGO STANDOUTSWhy the Airline Works Exceptionally Well for KenyaTiming Advantage: The early-morning Mumbai departure and early arrival into Nairobi ensures no travel day is lost, a critical factor for safari circuits, business itineraries, and tight international schedules.India-Wide Feed: IndiGo’s unmatched domestic network funnels travellers from across India into Mumbai, making Nairobi accessible from Tier I, II and emerging cities with a single, coordinated booking.Operational Reliability: Consistent on-time performance, disciplined turnarounds, and predictable schedules matter on long-haul international sectors — especially where safari logistics depend on daylight hours.Ground Support at Nairobi: Upon request, IndiGo ground teams at JKIA ensure smooth arrivals, baggage handling, and departures, particularly valuable for group travel, media delegations, and corporate movements.Traveller Comfort & Familiarity: For Indian travellers, the airline offers a sense of operational familiarity, service consistency, and cultural comfort when flying into a new continent.Value Equation: Competitive fares, transparent pricing, and a straightforward product make Africa more accessible and repeatable for Indian travellers, rather than a once-ina-lifetime journey.NETWORK DEPTH & AFRICA REACHBeyond Nairobi, IndiGo continues to methodically broaden its Africafacing network, reinforcing its role as a long-term connector between India and the continent. The airline also operates direct, daily flights between Bengaluru and Mauritius, launched on November 19, 2025, positioning Mauritius as IndiGo’s 35th international destination and strengthening links across the Indian Ocean corridor. Further extending its reach, IndiGo enables seamless access to key African gateways –Casablanca, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro – through its strategic codeshare partnership with Turkish Airlines. Together, these routes create a simplified, singlecarrier pathway into Africa, offering Indian corporates, tour operators, and frequent international travellers an efficient, familiar and scalable alternative to traditionally fragmented medium to long-haul travel.In connecting India to Kenya daily, IndiGo has done more than open a route. It has enabled a travel ecosystem where Africa becomes approachable, efficient, and confidently navigable for Indian travellers. On the other hand, travellers from Africa can choose to have access to IndiGo’s unparalleled domestic network. In partnership with experienced destination operators like Sopa, the airline demonstrates how smart scheduling and dependable service can redefine long-haul leisure and business travel alike. IndiGo: India’s Gateway AirlineIndiGo operates direct, daily Mumbai-Nairobi flights, anchoring India’s fastest air bridge to Africa. With a fleet of 400-plus aircraft, 2,200-plus daily flights and connectivity across 140-plus destinations, IndiGo enables seamless outbound business, MICE and premium leisure travel. A disciplined focus on punctuality, scale and safety makes IndiGo a critical enabler of India’s global hospitality ecosystem.and largely friction-free, eliminating traditional paperwork hurdles. Once on the ground, the Kenyan Shilling’s favourable exchange rate adds a layer of comfort for Indian travellers, making meals, shopping, and local experiences feel excellent value without compromising quality.This is where the partnership with Sopa Lodges completes the journey. IndiGo delivers travellers into Nairobi with precision; Sopa takes over to carry them deep into Kenya’s landscapes – Amboseli, Naivasha, Nakuru, the Masai Mara and Samburu – using robust Toyota Land Cruiser safari vehicles and well-planned road and lodge logistics. Together, the airline and the lodge group create a circuit that feels tailored for Indian travellers, balancing efficiency with immersion.For CXOs, senior executives and business travellers extending trips into leisure, this model works particularly well. There is minimal wasted time, dependable scheduling, and a sense of continuity from departure in India to arrival in the African wilderness and back. IndiGo’s strength lies not in theatrical luxury, but in operational excellence – punctuality, connectivity and reliability – qualities that resonate strongly with corporate travel decision-makers.INDIGOSenior Captain Annand Khadtale and Sr. First Officer Captain Sakineh Mehdiyan alongside their cabin crew
TRAVEL136BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comKANDULA DURGESH, MINISTER FOR TOURISM AND CULTURE, GOVERNMENT OF ANDHRA PRADESH, DECODES THE STATE’S TOURISM ROADMAP AND ITS IMPACT ON INVESTORS AND LOCAL COMMUNITIESBUILDING A GLOBAL TOURISM POWERHOUSETirumala Venkataswara Temple
ANDHRA PRADESH137BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.comBY BHW BUREAUThe Andhra Pradesh Tourism Policy 2024-2029 aims to enhance tourism infrastructure, attract investments and promote sustainable tourism practices to position the state as a leading global tourism destination. The key objectives of the policy include increasing the tourism sector’s share in the state’s Gross Value Added (GVA) and enhance its overall economic impact; raising the tourism sector’s contribution to employment, creating more job opportunities for local communities; positioning Andhra Pradesh among the top 10 states in India for Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs), thereby enhancing its global tourism profile; elevating the average spending by domestic tourists from Rs 1,700 to Rs 25,000, amplifying the economic impact of tourism activities and prolonging the average tourist stay from one-two days to five days, offering richer and more immersive experiences.Excerpts from an exclusive interview: Tourism Policy, Investment AdvantageThe Tourism Policy 2024-29 positions Andhra Pradesh as a nextgeneration hospitality investment destination, moving beyond saturated urban hubs toward experience-led, destination-based tourism development. Unlike competing markets that are largely metro- or legacy-destination centric, Andhra Pradesh offers: Long coastline, Buddhist heritage, riverine landscapes, hills, forests, and living craft economies within a single state. A clear shift from land sale to land facilitation, with the government acting as an enabler rather than a mere regulator. A policy architecture that integrates tourism, infrastructure, skill development, and local enterprise creation. The intent is to create distributed tourism growth, where hospitality investments are viable not only in cities but also in emerging experiential destinations.What are the most compelling incentives the state is offering to hotel and resort developers, particularly in emerging destinations?The policy offers a destination-sensitive incentive framework, especially attractive for projects beyond traditional hubs such as Visakhapatnam and Tirupati. The key incentives include: Capital subsidies linked to project size and location Interest subsidy on term loans 100 per cent reimbursement of state GST for a defined period Stamp duty and registration fee exemption Power tariff concessions and support for renewable energy adoption Single-window clearances with time-bound approvalsImportantly, incentives are higher for projects in underdeveloped and aspirational tourism zones, encouraging first-mover investments.Industry status for tourism is a significant step. How has this translated into ease of doing business on the ground?Granting industry status to tourism has resulted in tangible outcomes for hospitality investors: Access to industrial power tariffs and priority utilities Eligibility for institutional finance on par with manufacturing Faster approvals through integrated single-desk systems Reduced compliance friction through self-certification mechanismsOn the ground, this means shorter gestation periods, predictable costs, and clearer timelines – critical for capital-intensive hospitality projects.Which regions or tourism circuits are being prioritised for hotel and resort development, and why?The government has prioritised thematic tourism circuits, guided by market demand, asset uniqueness, and carrying capacity:HOSPITALITY INVESTMENTS CANNOT SUCCEED WITHOUT INFRASTRUCTURE
TRAVEL138BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.com Coastal & Beach Circuit – Visakhapatnam to Konaseema to Suryalanka Buddhist Circuit – Amaravati, Nagarjunakonda, Salihundam Spiritual & Temple Circuit – Tirupati, Srisailam, Simhachalam River & Backwater Tourism – Godavari and Krishna belts Eco & Tribal Tourism – Araku, Lambasingi, Eastern GhatsThese choices are data-driven, based on tourist flow potential, seasonality balance, and scope for community participation.How is last-mile infrastructure being ensured for remote or under developed destinations?Hospitality investments cannot succeed without infrastructure. The government is therefore aligning tourism development with: Road connectivity under state and central schemes Last-mile access roads to tourism nodes Power, water, sewage, and digital connectivity Jetty, cruise, ropeway, and mobility infrastructure where relevantTourism projects are now planned in convergence with Public Works, Roads & Buildings, Panchayat Raj, and Urban Development departments, ensuring execution – not just policy intent.What response has the state received from domestic and international hospitality brands?The response has been strong and encouraging, particularly from: Indian hotel groups exploring resorts, mid-scale, and experiential formats Brands seeking first-mover advantage in untapped destinations Operators interested in management contracts and PPP-based assetsSeveral proposals are at advanced stages of discussion, reflecting confidence in Andhra Pradesh’s policy clarity, political commitment, and long-term tourism vision.How does Andhra Pradesh plan to strengthen public-private partnerships (PPPs)?PPP is central to the state’s tourism strategy. The government is enabling this through: Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for large tourism infrastructureLord Venkateswara on Gaja VahanamChandragiri FortPUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP IS CENTRAL TO THE STATE’S TOURISM STRATEGY
ANDHRA PRADESH139BWHOTELIER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 www.bwhotelier.com Long-term lease models instead of outright land sale Government-developed tourism anchor infrastructure, operated by private players Transparent bidding and predictable concession frameworksThis ensures risk-sharing, faster execution, and global-quality assets, while safeguarding public interest.How does the state balance rapid development with sustainability and community participation?Sustainability is not an afterthought – it is embedded in policy design: Mandatory environmental and carrying-capacity assessments Promotion of eco-sensitive architecture and local materials Preference for local hiring and skilling Integration of local crafts, food, fishing, farming, and cultural practices into tourism productsTourism in Andhra Pradesh is envisioned as a livelihood multiplier, not an extractive industry.What opportunities does the policy create for local entrepreneurs, homestays, and small hospitality businesses?The policy creates unprecedented opportunities for local stakeholders through: Homestay registration and incentive frameworks Support for women-led and youth-led tourism enterprises Market linkage through state tourism platforms Skill development in hospitality, guiding, culinary arts, and experience design Local entrepreneurs are positioned as co-creators of the tourism ecosystem, not peripheral participants.Over the next five years, how do you envision Andhra Pradesh’s hospitality landscape evolving?Over the next five years, Andhra Pradesh will emerge as: A diversified hospitality market, not dependent on a few destinations A preferred state for resort, experiential, spiritual, and eco-tourism investments A model for inclusive, sustainable, and community-led tourism developments SUSTAINABILITY IS NOT AN AFTERTHOUGHT – IT IS EMBEDDED IN POLICY DESIGNTribal Museum, ArakuTribal Museum, Toy making, VisakhapatnamToy making,
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GUEST EXPERIENCE SPECIAL:WINNING HEARTS, GAINING CONFIDENCEAs India advances towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy, the hospitality sector is set to play a defining role - not just as a service industry, but as a key driver of tourism, employment and the country’s economy. At the heart of this journey lies guest experience. To fully realise this potential, the industry must continue to earn two critical forms of trust: the hearts of its guests and the confidence of policymakers.We explore how leading brands are reimagining guest experience to build confidence and loyalty, while examining the role of the supply chain in supporting these efforts through innovative and sustainable solutions that elevate comfort, care and luxury.
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