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.


Bengaluru Airport Becomes India’s First to Secure Level 2 Accessibility Accreditation

Bengaluru Airport Becomes India’s First to Secure Level 2 Accessibility Accreditation

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 1, 2025

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has created history by becoming the first airport in India, and among a select group worldwide, to achieve Level 2 Accreditation under Airports Council International’s (ACI) Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation (AEA) programme.

This achievement highlights BLR Airport’s dedication to embedding inclusivity across its infrastructure, services, and passenger experiences, ensuring smoother and more dignified journeys for travellers with reduced mobility and disabilities. The AEA programme is the only global initiative that benchmarks and improves accessibility in air travel, evaluating airports on their policies, facilities, services, and governance frameworks.

By reaching Level 2 Accreditation, BLR Airport has reaffirmed its commitment to continuous improvement, making accessibility a central part of its long-term strategies and operational framework. A dedicated accessibility committee, consisting of airport stakeholders, drives initiatives to enhance facilities and mobility solutions for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRMs) and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). Continuous staff training further ensures that assistance remains empathetic, professional, and personalised.

Speaking on the recognition, Satyaki Raghunath, Chief Operating Officer, Bangalore International Airport Ltd, said:

“We are honoured to be awarded the Level 2 Accreditation under ACI’s Airport Accessibility Enhancement programme. At BLR Airport, accessibility is not just a measure of infrastructure, but a reflection of our belief that travel should be inclusive, seamless, and experiential for every passenger. This milestone is the result of the tireless dedication of our entire team and the invaluable guidance from ACI, reinforcing our vision of building an airport that truly serves everyone. While we celebrate this achievement, we see it as a step forward in our continuous journey to make every traveller feel welcomed and valued at BLR Airport.”

BLR Airport has already pioneered several firsts in India, including the Sunflower Lanyard scheme launched in 2022 to support passengers with hidden disabilities, and the introduction of a sensory room for neurodivergent travellers, the first of its kind at an Indian airport. These initiatives, along with global collaborations and partnerships with government agencies and advocacy groups, further strengthen its role as a leader in building barrier-free, inclusive air travel.

With this recognition, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru reinforces its position as a pioneer in accessibility and inclusivity, advancing the vision of making aviation universally welcoming for all passengers.


India International Travel Mart Returns to Pune & Hyderabad in 2025

India International Travel Mart Returns to Pune & Hyderabad in 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 30, 2025

The India International Travel Mart (IITM), one of the country’s longest-running and most trusted travel trade exhibitions, is set to return to Pune and Hyderabad in 2025.

  • IITM Pune will take place from 27–29 November 2025 at Expo Centre, Deccan College, Yerawada.

  • IITM Hyderabad will be held from 4–6 December 2025 at Hall No. 2, HITEX Exhibition Centre, Kondapur Post.

Now in its 26th successful year, IITM has established itself as India’s biggest travel event, connecting national and international tourism boards, travel operators, hospitality brands, technology providers, and other stakeholders from the tourism ecosystem.

Why IITM Matters

IITM is more than an exhibition, it’s a dynamic B2B platform designed for networking, destination promotion, and business development. With over 200 editions hosted across India, the event has become a trusted launchpad for new travel products, services, and partnerships.

The 2025 editions will feature dedicated pavilions for domestic and international destinations, luxury travel, experiential tourism, travel technology, and sustainable tourism solutions. Attendees can look forward to workshops, buyer-seller meets, and curated showcases designed to strengthen business networks and drive collaborations.

Organisers Speak

Commenting on the upcoming editions, Mr. Sanjay Hakhu, Director, Sphere Travelmedia & Exhibitions, said:

“India International Travel Mart has become a landmark event in India’s tourism calendar. It plays a vital role in driving growth by fostering direct engagement between destinations, travel brands, and buyers.”

Mr. Rohit Hangal, Director, Sphere Travelmedia & Exhibitions, added:

“With Pune and Hyderabad being among India’s fastest-growing tourism markets, hosting IITM in these cities allows us to bring together key stakeholders, promote destinations, and create stronger networks for the industry.”

Spotlight on Pune & Hyderabad

Both host cities represent high-potential travel markets:

  • Pune is a thriving hub for education, IT, automotive, and manufacturing, with strong leisure and MICE travel demand driven by its young professional base and proximity to the Western Ghats.

  • Hyderabad, also known as “Cyberabad,” is a leading IT, biotech, and pharma hub, with a growing middle-class population and strong infrastructure, making it a significant market for business and leisure tourism.

Focus for IITM 2025

This year’s editions will place special emphasis on:

  • Sustainable Tourism – showcasing eco-friendly travel solutions and responsible hospitality initiatives.

  • Emerging Travel Technologies – including AI-driven planning tools, VR travel experiences, contactless systems, and blockchain-based security.

  • Business Networking – creating opportunities for exhibitors to connect with buyers, partners, and investors through curated B2B meetings.

As India’s outbound travel market continues to boom, expected to surpass USD 44 billion by 2032, IITM stands as a strategic gateway for industry players to connect, collaborate, and capitalize on new opportunities.


Lemon Tree Hotels Signs Lemon Tree Resort in Pench, Maharashtra

Lemon Tree Hotels Signs Lemon Tree Resort in Pench, Maharashtra

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 29, 2025

Lemon Tree Hotels has announced the signing of Lemon Tree Resort, Pench, Maharashtra, its newest getaway in the heart of India.

Nestled amidst the scenic forests of Pench, which spans across Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, the upcoming resort will feature 60 well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, spa, swimming pool, banquet spaces, and more.

Pench National Park, famously known as the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, leopards, sloth bears, and countless other wildlife species. This makes it an ideal destination for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.

This signing further strengthens Lemon Tree Hotels’ footprint in Maharashtra, where it currently operates 14 hotels with six more in the pipeline. The expansion also reflects the brand’s commitment to growing its presence across India’s key leisure, wildlife, and experiential destinations.

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