Redefining Travel: Exclusive Insights with Jyoti Mayal

Redefining Travel: Exclusive Insights with Jyoti Mayal

Jyoti Mayal

Published on May 1, 2025

In an exclusive feature for HospitalityNews' May Edition, we had the privilege of engaging in a compelling conversation with Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), and one of the most respected voices in India's tourism industry. With decades of experience and a keen eye on global trends, Jyoti Mayal brings a wealth of knowledge to the table—touching upon everything from eco-tourism to digital transformation in travel.

Her insights are not only eye-opening but also signal the emerging priorities of Indian travellers and how the industry must evolve to meet them. From discussing how tourism boards are crafting immersive experiences tailored to Indian preferences, to highlighting India's rising status in medical tourism, every part of the conversation offered a deeper look into the rapidly changing world of travel.

She begins by sharing how Indian travellers have moved beyond the conventional. “Indian travelers today are more informed, curious, and experience-driven than ever before…” This evolving mindset, she says, is driving demand for personalization and pushing agencies to elevate their offerings.

Further in the discussion, she emphasizes the meaningful collaborations between international tourism boards and Indian travel professionals. She reveals how these partnerships are building cultural bridges and setting new standards in hospitality.

On India’s leadership in medical tourism, Mayal proudly notes the impact of the Heal in India initiative and how the THSC is playing a transformative role in creating a skilled and empathetic ecosystem.

From sustainability in wildlife tourism to seamless international travel experiences and AI-driven travel planning, her observations are a masterclass in future-focused thinking.

This enlightening conversation with Jyoti Mayal is a must-read for industry leaders, aspiring travel professionals, and anyone interested in where Indian tourism is headed.

Catch the complete interview in the May edition of Hospitality News, available on our website. You can also get a physical copy to keep this enriching feature in your collection. It was truly a great conversation—one that sheds light on the vision, strategy, and heart behind India’s travel transformation.


Crafting Destinations with Character: Ramit Sethi on Redefining Boutique Hospitality

Crafting Destinations with Character: Ramit Sethi on Redefining Boutique Hospitality

Ramit Sethi

Published on August 1, 2026

Boutique hospitality is steadily redefining the way travellers experience destinations, placing greater emphasis on authenticity, meaningful connections, and memorable stays. Among the brands leading this shift is Seclude Hotels, known for transforming unique homes into immersive hospitality experiences that celebrate heritage, local culture, and personalised service.

In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, Ramit Sethi, Co-founder and Director of Seclude Hotels, shares the vision that has shaped the brand's remarkable journey. From the inspiration behind the successful Creators Club initiative to Seclude's commitment to responsible tourism, Sethi discusses how the company continues to build experiences that extend far beyond accommodation.

The conversation also explores Seclude's role in strengthening local tourism ecosystems by creating employment opportunities, collaborating with surrounding communities, and encouraging travellers to discover offbeat destinations through authentic experiences. Drawing from his corporate leadership background and entrepreneurial journey, Sethi reflects on the guest-first philosophy rooted in seva bhav that continues to guide every decision at Seclude.

Readers will also discover how the brand's carefully curated 'Rent Your Home' model helps preserve the individuality of every property while ensuring consistent quality and personalised hospitality. In addition, Sethi shares Seclude's long-term vision for purposeful expansion, explaining why the company prioritises destinations with heritage, character, and unique stories over rapid growth. The discussion further highlights why Seclude's boutique properties have become preferred venues for intimate weddings, milestone celebrations, anniversaries, and family reunions, where every occasion becomes part of a memorable story.

Packed with insights on boutique hospitality, destination development, experiential travel, creator-led marketing, and evolving guest expectations, this exclusive feature offers an engaging perspective on one of India's most distinctive hospitality brands.

It was a truly insightful conversation with Ramit Sethi, offering valuable perspectives on the future of experiential hospitality and destination-led travel. To read the complete exclusive interview, pick up the August edition of Hospitality News magazine or visit our website to explore the full feature.


Exclusive Conversation with Rahul Makhija: Leading Hospitality Through People, Purpose, and Innovation

Exclusive Conversation with Rahul Makhija: Leading Hospitality Through People, Purpose, and Innovation

Rahul Makhija

Published on August 1, 2026

With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Rahul Makhija, General Manager at Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited, has consistently championed a guest-first philosophy while leading The Park Navi Mumbai with a vision rooted in innovation, service excellence, and meaningful hospitality.

In an exclusive featured conversation with Hospitality News, Rahul Makhija shares valuable insights drawn from his extensive leadership journey, offering readers a deeper understanding of the evolving dynamics shaping India's hospitality landscape. From building resilient hospitality businesses and creating personalised guest experiences to navigating global uncertainties, embracing sustainability, and responding to changing food, beverage, and nightlife trends, the conversation explores the priorities that define modern hotel leadership.

The interview also highlights how The Park Navi Mumbai continues to strengthen its presence as Navi Mumbai evolves into one of India's fastest-growing business and infrastructure destinations. Rahul Makhija discusses the hotel's role in supporting this transformation through world-class hospitality, talent development, community engagement, and experiences that reflect the brand's distinctive lifestyle philosophy.

Readers will also discover his perspectives on balancing innovation with operational excellence, understanding changing guest expectations, leveraging technology without compromising the human touch, and creating long-term value for guests, employees, partners, and stakeholders alike. His thoughtful responses offer meaningful takeaways for hospitality professionals, industry leaders, aspiring hoteliers, and business enthusiasts seeking to understand the future direction of the sector.

Whether it is adapting to global market conditions, delivering memorable guest journeys, or building a more responsible and sustainable future, every response reflects a leadership approach centred on trust, consistency, and continuous evolution. The conversation offers practical insights into how hospitality brands can remain relevant while staying true to their identity in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

It was truly a meaningful and insightful conversation with Rahul Makhija, whose perspectives reinforce the importance of people, purpose, and innovation in shaping exceptional hospitality experiences.

To read the complete exclusive interview, explore the Hospitality News August Magazine on our website or grab your physical copy and discover the full conversation along with many more inspiring stories, industry insights, and exclusive features from the world of hospitality.


Redefining Luxury Through Authentic Hospitality

Redefining Luxury Through Authentic Hospitality

Anand Nair

Published on July 1, 2026

Luxury hospitality continues to evolve, and the most successful destinations are those that seamlessly blend innovation with authenticity. In the latest edition of Hospitality News, we bring you an exclusive conversation with Anand Nair, General Manager of InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, who shares the vision, leadership, and guest-centric philosophy that have shaped one of the region's most distinguished luxury resorts.

Since taking over the leadership of the property, Anand Nair has guided the resort through a remarkable transformation, redefining luxury while preserving the cultural heritage and coastal charm of Mahabalipuram. In this engaging feature, he offers valuable insights into how thoughtful innovation, personalised hospitality, and meaningful guest experiences continue to elevate the resort's reputation.

The conversation explores the inspiration behind the property's comprehensive reimagination, highlighting how refreshed accommodations, redesigned public spaces, enhanced dining venues, and curated recreational experiences have created a destination that resonates with today's discerning travellers. Readers will also gain a deeper understanding of how every aspect of the guest journey has been carefully designed to deliver memorable moments through personalised service and exceptional hospitality.

Anand Nair further discusses the resort's diverse offerings, from grand celebrations at the Vaibhava Ballroom and picturesque Beach Lawns to its distinctive culinary destinations, each delivering unique experiences for guests. He also shares how the resort celebrates Mahabalipuram's rich cultural and coastal identity while complementing Chennai's growing stature as a leading business and leisure destination.

Another compelling aspect of the discussion focuses on the future of hospitality, where authenticity, sustainability, wellness, and innovation are becoming increasingly important. Anand Nair also reflects on his personal philosophy of hospitality, explaining why making every guest feel genuinely valued remains the foundation of exceptional service.

This exclusive feature offers hospitality professionals, industry leaders, and travel enthusiasts an opportunity to discover the vision behind a resort that continues to redefine luxury through meaningful experiences and heartfelt service.

It was a truly insightful conversation with Anand Nair, whose perspectives highlight the evolving future of luxury hospitality and guest experiences. To read the complete interview and explore every valuable insight shared during this engaging discussion, visit the Hospitality News July Magazine on our website or grab your physical copy of the magazine.