5th Young Visionary Housekeepers' National Convention Highlights Technology in Housekeeping

5th Young Visionary Housekeepers' National Convention Highlights Technology in Housekeeping

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 23, 2024

The Professional Housekeepers Association (PHA) proudly hosted the 5th Young Visionary Housekeepers National Convention and the 7th PHA YUVA Anniversary on September 14th, 2024, at Fortune Park JP Celestial, Bengaluru. The event drew nearly 250 participants, including YUVAs from 16 Hotel Management colleges and professionals from various sectors, including hospitality, healthcare, facility management, and aviation. This year's theme, "Technology Enabled Housekeeping" (TEHK), explored the transformative impact of technology on the housekeeping industry.

A key highlight was the panel discussion on "Housekeeping Management with Automation and Digitization", moderated by Ms. Sunita Srinivasan from T. John College. The panel featured industry experts, including Mr. Satyabrata Samal, Associate Director of Housekeeping at Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa, along with leaders from ITC Windsor, Apollo Hospital, and Olive by Embassy. Mr. Samal offered valuable insights into how Clarks Exotica has embraced AI and automation in its housekeeping operations, resulting in improved efficiency, guest satisfaction, and sustainability. He emphasized that while technology is key, Clarks Exotica maintains a personalized service touch, setting a benchmark in guest experience.

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Mr. Bhavya Kaura, General Manager of Fortune Park JP Celestial, commended PHA for nurturing future hospitality leaders, while Mr. Ajay Jain, CEO of Bed and Bath Depot, stressed the importance of standardized linen quality and inventory management in hotels.

Demonstrating its commitment to developing emerging talent, Clarks Exotica sponsored meal and lifestyle vouchers for participants, underlining its active role in supporting future professionals in the hospitality industry.

The event concluded with awards for various competitions, including a housekeeping design challenge, in which M. S. Ramaiah University claimed the Champions Trophy. The day also featured cultural performances by PHA YUVA members from across India and an expert talk on AI in Housekeeping by Mr. Girish Prabhu, CEO of Instio Experiences.

Clarks Exotica's leadership in integrating technology with personalized service was a key takeaway from the convention, reinforcing its position as an innovator in the hospitality sector.

About Clarks Exotica Convention Resort and Spa:

Set amid tranquil surroundings, Clarks Exotica Convention Resort and Spa provides a luxurious haven for both leisure and corporate travelers. With its expansive rooms, gourmet dining experiences, and world-class event facilities, the resort promises an exceptional stay marked by luxury and hospitality.

Website:
Clarks Exotica Website


Elevated Festivity Unfolds at Novotel Vijayawada Varun with Christmas and New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Elevated Festivity Unfolds at Novotel Vijayawada Varun with Christmas and New Year’s Eve Celebrations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 23, 2025

Novotel Vijayawada Varun ushers in the festive season with a thoughtfully curated line-up of Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations, offering guests indulgent dining experiences, elegant festivities, and premium gifting options. Designed for families, friends, and festive revellers, the hotel promises a warm and memorable close to the year.

Adding to the festive cheer, Cake Factory at Novotel Vijayawada Varun presents a selection of beautifully curated Christmas hampers and classic plum cakes, ideal for festive gifting. Designed around thematic collections featuring gourmet treats, these hampers combine premium selections with elegant packaging.
The hampers and plum cakes are available at Cake Factory from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM until 31st December 2025.

On 24th December 2025, guests can celebrate the season with a Christmas Eve Dinner at Food Exchange, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant. Set amidst elegant festive décor, the dinner features a lavish multi-course spread curated by the Head Chef, making it an ideal choice for a cosy family gathering or a celebratory evening with loved ones. The dinner will be served from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Continuing the celebrations, Food Exchange hosts a festive Christmas Day Brunch on 25th December 2025, from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. The brunch includes a specially curated menu, live cooking stations, and live music, offering guests a vibrant and relaxed Christmas afternoon experience.

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The festivities culminate with A Golden Gala – New Year’s Eve Celebrations on 31st December 2025, hosted across Food Exchange, Gourmet Bar, SkyDeck, Red Bowl, and V-Convention. Each venue offers a unique celebratory experience, ranging from gala dinners and curated menus to high-energy entertainment and open-air celebrations. Guests can enjoy specially crafted menus by the Head Chef, along with live singers, Bollywood DJs, and a live band, creating a lively atmosphere as the city counts down to 2026.

Guests dining in or staying at the hotel can avail an exclusive 20% early-bird discount on New Year’s Eve celebrations when booked on 30th December 2025. Additionally, diners at Red Bowl will receive one complimentary portion of dim sums with their food or beverage order.

With its elegant settings, curated menus, and immersive festive experiences, Novotel Vijayawada Varun sets the stage for a truly elevated Christmas and New Year celebration in the city.


Wyndham Opens Beachfront Resort in Corfu’s Scenic Village of Acharavi

Wyndham Opens Beachfront Resort in Corfu’s Scenic Village of Acharavi

By Hariharan U

Published on December 22, 2025

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Wyndham Corfu Acharavi, a new beachfront resort located in the charming coastal village of Acharavi on the northern coast of Corfu. The opening marks Wyndham’s first namesake hotel on the island, one of Greece’s most sought-after year-round destinations. The property has been developed in collaboration with Mercan Group, one of Europe’s leading hotel developers.

Set along a picturesque seven-kilometre-long sandy beach, Wyndham Corfu Acharavi offers uninterrupted views of the Ionian Sea, framed by lush greenery and dramatic sunsets. Its location combines peaceful seafront living with easy access to the village centre, allowing guests to enjoy both tranquillity and authentic local experiences.

The Emerald Isle of Corfu stands among the Mediterranean’s most exceptional destinations,” said Vassilis Themelidis, Regional Director, South & East Europe, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Situated on one of the island’s longest beaches, Wyndham Corfu Acharavi marks an exciting milestone as our first namesake hotel in Corfu. As our portfolio grows to 15 hotels across Greece and Cyprus, our partnership with Mercan Group strengthens our presence in a market with strong long-term potential.”

The resort features 163 thoughtfully designed rooms, suites and apartments, with plans to add over 100 additional premium rooms in the coming months. Select accommodations include private plunge pools, offering enhanced privacy and comfort for leisure travellers.

Dining at the resort is designed to cater to diverse tastes, with Theos Main Restaurant offering live-cooking stations and buffet dining, while Olive Specialty Restaurant presents a contemporary take on the traditional Greek taverna. Additional cafés and snack bars serve both poolside and beachfront areas, ensuring guests enjoy all-day dining options.

Wellness and recreation are central to the guest experience. Facilities include a full-service spa with sauna and treatment rooms, a fully equipped gym, two outdoor swimming pools, a children’s pool, a tennis court and a dedicated children’s playground. The resort also offers private parking, a mini market featuring local products, and access to nearby activities such as cycling routes, sea excursions and scenic hiking trails.

With excellent air and sea connectivity to mainland Greece and neighbouring islands, Corfu serves both as a standalone destination and a gateway to the wider Ionian region.

Speaking on the collaboration, a Mercan Group representative noted that the opening of Wyndham Corfu Acharavi marks the beginning of a long-term partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, with plans to further enhance the property and meet growing demand as travel seasons continue to extend across the Mediterranean.

With its beachfront setting, family-friendly facilities and strong sense of place, Wyndham Corfu Acharavi is positioned as an inviting choice for travellers seeking a relaxed Greek island escape throughout the year.


Celebrate New Year 2026 in Style with Glitz and Glam at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan

Celebrate New Year 2026 in Style with Glitz and Glam at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan

By Hariharan U

Published on December 21, 2025

Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan is set to ring in the New Year in style with Glitz and Glam 2026, an exclusive New Year Party and Stay Package. Designed for couples, families, and festive seekers, the package promises a luxurious start to 2026 with elegance, entertainment, and indulgence.

The package includes a stay for two, a welcome drink on arrival, and a poolside hi-tea to kickstart the celebrations. Guests gain access to three immersive themed party zones:

  • Starry Soiree: Open-air lawns with live food counters

  • The Spin Kitchen: Vibrant DJ tracks paired with an elaborate culinary spread

  • Break the Beat: Club-style, high-energy ambiance for guests to dance into the New Year

Families are catered to with Junior Junction, a kids’ corner featuring engaging activities and a curated children’s buffet. Guests can also enjoy a lavish gourmet buffet, premium beverages, and world cuisine delights.

The festivities continue into the New Year with Breakfast & Brunch at MoMo Café, along with perks such as late checkout, spa discounts, extended stay offers, and a lucky draw featuring complimentary weekend stays.

With its dazzling combination of celebration, comfort, and luxury, Glitz and Glam 2026 offers the perfect way to welcome 2026 in style at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan.

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