Dare to Dream: Women in Hospitality Who Show You It’s Possible

Dare to Dream: Women in Hospitality Who Show You It’s Possible

By Author

Published on November 6, 2023

In the heart of the hospitality industry, where warmth meets service, women are not just participants; they're trailblazers crafting remarkable experiences. Their presence is a testament to the power of inclusivity and the diverse strengths they bring to the table. Encouragement is not in short supply, and for women contemplating a venture into this vibrant sector, know this: you stand on the sturdy shoulders of giants. Here are six shining examples of success who prove that in hospitality, sisterhood thrives.

1. Isadore Sharp - Founder of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

While not a woman, Isadore Sharp's inclusion is pivotal as he championed women in leadership roles within his luxury hotel chain, setting a precedent for diversity and empowerment. Four Seasons is renowned for its exceptional service, a standard often attributed to the empathetic leadership and attention to detail that women bring to the industry.

2. Christina Ong - The Mind Behind COMO Hotels and Resorts

Christina Ong, dubbed "The Queen of Bond Street," ventured into the hospitality scene with her unique brand of luxury resorts and city hotels. Ong's establishments are more than just a place to stay; they are sanctuaries that reflect her philosophy of holistic well-being, blending culture with comfort—a space where women, especially, can flourish in leadership.

3. Katara Hospitality - A Company Elevating Women Leaders

Based in Qatar, Katara Hospitality has been a forerunner in empowering women within the Middle East, showcasing that gender diversity is key to innovative and sustainable growth. They've shattered ceilings, proving that women in hospitality are not just present but are driving progress and excellence.

4. Priya Paul - The Chairperson of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels

Priya Paul is a force to be reckoned with, steering her group’s collection of boutique hotels to new heights. Under her guidance, The Park Hotels have become synonymous with contemporary luxury and cultural vibrancy. Her leadership style is a blueprint for women eyeing the hospitality summit.

5. Ritu Dalmia - Celebrated Chef and Restaurateur

Ritu Dalmia, a chef extraordinaire, adds her zest to the hospitality industry with her chain of restaurants. She has not only brought a spotlight to culinary art but also shown that the kitchen, often a male-dominated space, can be helmed excellently by women with passion and panache.

6. Niki Leondakis - Former CEO of Equinox Fitness Clubs and Hotels

Niki Leondakis has made waves with her dynamic approach to leadership in the hotel sector. With a career that has spanned various hospitality giants, she has become a role model for women who aspire to reach executive roles, proving that with tenacity, the glass ceiling is but an illusion.

These icons, among countless others, are proof that women are crafting the narrative of hospitality with every successful venture. For every woman on the cusp of stepping into hospitality, let these stories embolden you. The industry doesn't just need women; it thrives because of them. So step in, the stage is set, and the audience is eager to witness your story unfold in the splendid theater of hospitality.


Suba Hotels Limited Opens Boutique Property Comfort Inn Emerald in Dapoli, Maharashtra

Suba Hotels Limited Opens Boutique Property Comfort Inn Emerald in Dapoli, Maharashtra

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 23, 2025

Suba Hotels Limited has announced the opening of Comfort Inn Emerald, Dapoli, marking the launch of a boutique hospitality offering in one of Maharashtra’s emerging leisure destinations. With this addition, the group strengthens its presence in the state, where it already operates hotels in Mumbai, Pune, and Aurangabad.

Commenting on the opening, Mansur Mehta, Managing Director of Suba Hotels Limited, said, “Dapoli has emerged as one of the favourite destinations for travellers in Maharashtra. We intend to provide these discerning travellers with well-thought-out hospitality.”

Sharing the company’s expansion plans, Mubeen Mehta, CEO of Suba Hotels Limited, said, “Though we are headquartered in Maharashtra, we currently have a limited presence in the state. We plan to open several properties in key cities across Maharashtra to consolidate our position as one of the leading hospitality players in the region.”

Located along the scenic Dapoli–Harnai Road, Comfort Inn Emerald blends the natural beauty of the Konkan coast with contemporary hospitality. The boutique hotel features an elegant Anglo-Gothic façade and offers well-appointed rooms across four distinct categories, designed to provide guests with a warm and comfortable stay.

The property includes a multi-cuisine restaurant, Eat Local, a rooftop Aqua Lounge Bar, and a range of leisure amenities tailored for relaxed coastal getaways. Its strategic location places guests close to popular beaches, temples, and other sightseeing attractions in and around Dapoli, making it suitable for both leisure travellers and short retreats.

Address:

  • Comfort Inn Emerald, Dapoli–Harnai Road, Near KKV Information Center, Dapoli
  • Email: reservations@comfortinnemerald.com


Hon’ble Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and Actress Zareen Khan Inaugurate Ramada Encore by Wyndham at Elan Miracle Mall, Gurugram

Hon’ble Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and Actress Zareen Khan Inaugurate Ramada Encore by Wyndham at Elan Miracle Mall, Gurugram

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 23, 2025

Elan Group has announced the inauguration of the Ramada Encore by Wyndham Gurugram Dwarka Expressway at its landmark mixed-use development, Elan Miracle Mall, located in Sector 84, Gurugram. The hotel was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), with Bollywood actress Zareen Khan also joining the inaugural ceremony, marking a key moment for the region’s hospitality and lifestyle landscape.

Developed by AS Hotels & Residences Private Limited and franchised under Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company, the Ramada Encore hotel strengthens Elan Miracle Mall’s integrated retail and hospitality ecosystem. The hotel brings contemporary design, modern comfort and upscale amenities to one of Gurugram’s rapidly developing residential and commercial corridors along the Dwarka Expressway.

Located within Elan Miracle Mall, the hotel features 91 spacious guest rooms, including well-appointed suites. The property offers a range of facilities such as an all-day dining restaurant, a fully equipped fitness centre, banquet halls, meeting rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and a party deck, making it suitable for both corporate and social gatherings.

Speaking at the inauguration, Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, said, “India is witnessing a new era of hospitality where global brands and Indian developers are coming together to create destinations of international standards. The opening of Ramada Encore Hotel by Wyndham at Elan Miracle Mall is a strong step in that direction.”

Commenting on the opening, Ms. Venika Kapoor, Executive Vice President – CRM, Elan Group, said, “The response to Elan Miracle Mall has been overwhelmingly encouraging. In a remarkably short span, it has emerged as the largest and most vibrant retail destination for Sector 84 and the wider Dwarka Expressway corridor. This achievement reflects the deep trust of our customers and the strength of our brand ecosystem featuring leading national and international brands. With the Ramada Encore Hotel by Wyndham now operational within the premises, Elan Miracle is evolving into a fully integrated hub of retail and hospitality. The addition of a premium hotel further enhances the overall experience, offering guests seamless access to stay, shop, dine and indulge in leisure, all within one dynamic destination.”

Mr. Amar Bharati, Director, AS Hotels & Residences Pvt. Ltd., added, “We are extremely excited to bring the dynamic Ramada Encore brand to Gurugram. This project reflects our commitment to delivering smart, modern hospitality that aligns with the evolving needs of today's traveller. Its strategic location at Elan Miracle Mall positions the hotel as a go-to destination for business, leisure and celebrations.”

Elan Miracle Mall, the largest retail destination in Sector 84 on the Dwarka Expressway, enjoys excellent connectivity to NH-8, IGI Airport and major business districts such as Cyber City, Udyog Vihar and Manesar. With strong weekday and weekend footfall, the mall has quickly emerged as one of Gurugram’s prominent lifestyle and leisure destinations.

With over 100 operational and upcoming national and international brands, Elan Miracle Mall continues to strengthen its positioning as a comprehensive destination for shopping, dining, entertainment and hospitality. The addition of Ramada Encore by Wyndham further enhances its appeal as an integrated, one-stop lifestyle hub.

AS Hotels & Residences Private Limited is an emerging hospitality venture focused on delivering quality infrastructure and guest-centric experiences through strategic partnerships, with a vision to redefine modern hospitality in India.


Bengal’s Heritage Conservation Perspective Highlights at Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas

Bengal’s Heritage Conservation Perspective Highlights at Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas

By Hariharan U

Published on December 22, 2025

Heritage-led development took center stage at Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas, where Mr. Sandip Nowlakha, Vice President of the Murshidabad Heritage Development Society, addressed delegates on “Havelis to Heritage: Unveiling the Legacy of Rajasthan’s Pioneering Entrepreneurs.” Drawing parallels between Rajasthan’s iconic havelis and Bengal’s historic homes, he highlighted the national relevance of preserving heritage while fostering economic sustainability.

Rajasthan has over a million havelis, many left neglected as owners migrated to cities like Kolkata. Bengal faces similar challenges with its rajbaris, kothis, and merchant houses. Mr. Nowlakha advocated adaptive reuse, transforming historic homes into museums of family history that preserve architecture as well as the entrepreneurial legacies of generations.

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Citing successful restorations in Murshidabad, including Kathgola Palace, Bari Kothi, Jagat Seth’s House, and Nashipur Rajbari, he emphasised the economic potential of conservation-led development. Kathgola Palace alone attracts 1.2 million visitors annually, while Jagat Seth’s House and Nashipur Rajbari each welcome around 1 million visitors yearly. “Heritage conservation can generate sustained visitor interest, local employment, and economic activity without compromising historical integrity,” he noted.

Mr. Nowlakha stressed that Rajasthan’s havelis, as historical repositories, require sensitive interpretation rather than structural reinvention. With contemporary conservation practices and curated narratives, these properties can become living history spaces, encouraging cultural exchange and tourism while keeping shared heritage alive for future generations.

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Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas also featured sessions on investment opportunities in education, healthcare, and tourism, highlighting the strategic role of cultural assets in development. The event saw participation from dignitaries including Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief Minister of Rajasthan; Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture; Smt. Diya Kumari, Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan; and Mr. Sundeep Bhutoria, Managing Trustee, Prabha Khaitan Foundation, Kolkata.

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