Loading...
You have Successfully logged In !
Already have an account? Login
By clicking Register you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Don't have an account?Register
Enter your E-mail address below, We will send the verification code
Please enter the code send to
Didn't receive the email?Click to resend
Your password has been successfully reset!.
Please login again to access your account.
An OTP has been sent to
Enter the 4-digit code
By Nishang Narayan
Published on January 19, 2025
The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), one of the world’s largest hospitality associations, has outlined a series of reforms it hopes to see in the Union Budget 2025-26. Representing over 60,000 hotels and 500,000 restaurants nationwide, FHRAI emphasized that these changes are critical for bolstering investment, creating jobs, and driving the growth of India's hospitality and tourism sector—a significant contributor to the national economy.
Infrastructure Status for Smaller ProjectsFHRAI proposes granting infrastructure status to hotel and convention center projects costing ₹10 crore or more. Currently, this status is limited to projects exceeding ₹200 crore for hotels and ₹300 crore for convention centers, along with a requirement for the city population to exceed one million. FHRAI highlights that these restrictions exclude smaller, tourism-rich towns, preventing their access to financing and infrastructure benefits.
“India’s tourism sector has immense untapped potential in historically significant towns and emerging destinations,” said K Syama Raju, President of FHRAI. “Infrastructure status for smaller projects will unlock growth opportunities in these regions.”
Simplified Licensing and Single-Window ClearanceFHRAI calls for a single-window clearance system to streamline the complex and time-consuming licensing and approval processes. Simplified regulations would encourage investments and ease operations for hospitality businesses.
GST RationalizationThe association advocates for rationalizing GST rates to make India more competitive internationally. FHRAI recommends:
Excise and Liquor Licensing ReformsFHRAI emphasizes the need for simplified excise and liquor licensing processes. Drawing inspiration from the FSSAI registration system, the association suggests nominal fees and easier compliance to promote the growth of leisure and entertainment services.
India’s hospitality sector, known for generating substantial employment and foreign exchange earnings, faces multiple challenges due to restrictive policies. FHRAI asserts that reforms in licensing, taxation, and infrastructure will enhance India’s competitiveness as a global tourism destination.
“Our hospitality and tourism sector is vital to economic growth, yet it operates under significant regulatory burdens,” Raju added. “Budget 2025-26 presents an opportunity for the government to align policies with industry needs, fostering sustainable growth and positioning India as a leader in global tourism.”
By addressing these critical reforms, FHRAI believes India can advance its vision of becoming a $1 trillion tourism economy by 2047. Simplifying regulations, fostering investments, and reducing operational barriers will create jobs, increase foreign exchange earnings, and drive the sector's long-term growth.
About FHRAI
Established in 1955, the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) is the apex body of the hospitality industry in India. Representing over 60,000 hotels and 500,000 restaurants, FHRAI serves as a voice for the sector, collaborating with government bodies and international organizations to support the growth of India’s hospitality and tourism industries.
Parag Milk Foods Enters RTD Protein Beverage Segment with Av...
Parag Milk Foods has announced its entry into India’s rapidl...
The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group & Special Olympics Bharat H...
The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group, in collaboration with Spec...
Clarion Hotel Khayal Kochi Wins Indian Hotel of the Year Award
Clarion Hotel Khayal Kochi has earned a major international ...
Papa Johns India Expands Delivery Reach Through Swiggy and Z...
Papa Johns India has announced the launch of its delivery se...
By Hariharan U
Published on May 21, 2026
Brandywine Realty Trust has officially opened The Brandywine, a new boutique hospitality destination on Philadelphia’s Main Line, marking a significant addition to the region’s luxury hotel landscape.
The Marriott Bonvoy Tribute Portfolio property officially opened on May 15, 2026, in Radnor, Pennsylvania, offering a blend of contemporary hospitality, heritage-inspired design, and elevated culinary experiences for both leisure and business travellers.
The hotel features 121 guest rooms and suites, flexible event and meeting spaces, multiple dining venues, and a range of modern amenities including a 24/7 fitness centre, communal gathering spaces, in-room dining, and pet-friendly accommodations.
Speaking on the launch, Jerry Sweeney said the property combines timeless hospitality with modern comfort while celebrating the heritage and culture of the Main Line region.
A key feature of the property is Laurel, a 1,500-square-foot event venue designed for meetings, private dining, receptions, and celebrations. The venue includes retractable partitions, natural lighting, landscaped patio access, and a curated catering program.
The hotel’s culinary offerings include Merrick's Tavern, a tavern-style dining concept serving regional American cuisine alongside bourbon-focused beverage selections, and Pomelo Rooftop Terrace, a rooftop destination opening later this season with craft cocktails, coastal-inspired dishes, and panoramic views.
The architecture for the property has been led by DLR Group, while interiors were designed by Restoration Hardware and Bergmeyer, drawing inspiration from vintage train travel and the historic character of the Main Line region.
The property also incorporates sustainability-focused landscape design by Jonathan Alderson Landscape Architects, using native plantings and rainwater infiltration systems to reduce environmental impact.
Situated near SEPTA regional rail connectivity and several universities, healthcare campuses, and cultural attractions, The Brandywine is expected to cater to growing regional demand ahead of major events including the FIFA World Cup 2026 and MLB All-Star Week 2026.
As part of Marriott International’s Tribute Portfolio collection, guests at The Brandywine will also be able to earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy loyalty points during their stays.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on May 20, 2026
As Mumbai experiences rising temperatures and intense humidity during the summer season, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai is offering guests an opportunity to slow down and recharge through a new wellness experience at The Spa.
Called "Renew & Restore," the specially curated treatment has been designed as a seasonal wellness journey that aims to provide a refreshing escape from the city's fast pace and summer heat. Focused on relaxation and overall wellbeing, the experience is crafted to ease stress, support balance and leave guests feeling lighter and refreshed.
The wellness journey begins with a calming welcome ritual and a soothing foot cleanse to create a sense of relaxation from the very beginning.
Guests are then taken through a 90-minute customised massage designed to reduce physical tension and encourage deeper relaxation. This is followed by a 60-minute personalised facial tailored to refresh the skin and bring out a natural glow.
To further enhance the experience, mindful breathing techniques and gentle stretches are integrated throughout the treatment, helping create a feeling of calm and balance.
The journey concludes with a nourishing closing ritual, leaving guests with a sense of renewal and restoration aligned with the needs of the summer season.
The complete Renew & Restore experience is available for a duration of 150 minutes, offering guests a dedicated wellness break within the heart of Mumbai.
Published on May 19, 2026
Kairali Ayurvedic Group has announced its entry into ultra-luxury hospitality with the launch of Villa Raag by Kairali, a yoga-inspired beachfront boutique retreat located at Agonda Beach in South Goa.
Designed as a private sanctuary for global travellers, the property blends Ayurvedic wellness philosophy with contemporary luxury living, offering an experience focused on privacy, mindfulness, and personalised healing. Spread across two acres, the retreat features just six elegantly designed rooms within a single exclusive beachfront villa.
The property offers a curated luxury experience with private butler and concierge services, direct beachfront access, yoga and meditation spaces overlooking the sea, a temperature-controlled saltwater pool, Zen gardens, a rooftop meditation pavilion, and a gourmet in-house kitchen.
According to Abhilash K Ramesh, Executive Director of Kairali Ayurvedic Group, Villa Raag is designed to deliver a five-star wellness experience where nature, comfort, and refined living come together seamlessly. He described the property as a sanctuary that blends serenity, exclusivity, and personalised hospitality, with a strong focus on privacy and experiential luxury.
The architectural vision of Villa Raag has been crafted by Kochi-based Durga Sarath Architects, bringing together coastal design, natural landscapes, and wellness-centric spatial planning to create a quiet, immersive environment for guests.
Each villa room features bespoke interiors, premium amenities, and private terraces overlooking the Arabian Sea, ensuring a highly personalised and secluded stay experience tailored for individuals, couples, families, and small groups.
The retreat places a strong emphasis on customised wellness journeys rather than structured group programs. Guests can access one-on-one yoga sessions, meditation guidance, and holistic healing programmes designed around individual needs, fitness levels, and wellness goals.
Future offerings at Villa Raag are expected to include curated wellness experiences such as Hatha and Vinyasa yoga, restorative therapies, mindful nutrition workshops, and transformational wellness programmes like Mind Renewal, Joint Revival, and Metabolic Reset.
Located in the Canacona region, Agonda Beach has increasingly emerged as a preferred destination for wellness travellers and slow tourism seekers, known for its tranquil coastline and growing reputation as a luxury wellness hub.
With over a century of Ayurvedic heritage, Kairali Ayurvedic Group brings its legacy into the hospitality space through Villa Raag, expanding beyond its established wellness centres and award-winning healing village in Kerala into experiential luxury retreats.
The launch marks a significant step in redefining Goa’s hospitality landscape by positioning wellness, Ayurveda, and slow living at the centre of luxury travel experiences.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!
Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.
By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Advertise With Us
We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.
A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.
Already have an account?Login
By clicking you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Subscribe for ₹2,000 and receive our monthly magazine for one year (12 months) from the coming month and save 2 months cost.