HRAWI's Pune Conclave Spotlights Hospitality Excellence

HRAWI's Pune Conclave Spotlights Hospitality Excellence

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on April 7, 2024

The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI, in collaboration with the Poona Hoteliers Association (PHA), recently organized a significant conclave titled 'Empowering Hospitality' on Thursday, March 21, 2024. Held at the renowned Radisson Blu Hotel in Pune, this event brought together industry leaders to explore essential aspects of hospitality excellence.

The conclave featured insightful discussions on critical topics such as 'Fire Life Safety Strategies for Hotels' and 'Classification & Industry Status of Hotels.' Distinguished speakers, including Mr. Devendra Potphode, Chief Fire Officer, Pune, and Ms. Shama S. Pawar, Deputy Director, Pune, shared valuable insights drawn from their extensive experience.

Mr. Potphode emphasized the importance of fire safety in the hospitality sector, highlighting the need for adherence to evolving safety norms and the utilization of modern firefighting facilities. He stressed the significance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure guest safety.

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Ms. Pawar discussed hotel classification and industry status, underscoring the benefits of audits and exploring states that have accorded industry status to the hospitality sector. These discussions aimed to foster excellence and innovation within the industry, aligning with HRAWI's commitment to promoting industry best practices.

The conclave also served as a platform to honor esteemed professionals for their outstanding contributions to the hospitality sector. Mr. Suresh Talera, President of Honour, PHA, received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for his exemplary dedication. Additionally, Mr. Amit Sharma, General Manager of Amanora The Fern, Pune, was recognized for his significant contributions to the hospitality landscape in Pune.

As the hospitality sector continues to evolve, events like the 'Empowering Hospitality' conclave play a crucial role in driving positive change and fostering collaboration within the industry. With a focus on excellence, safety, and sustainable growth, HRAWI remains committed to advancing the hospitality sector's standards and achieving new milestones of success.

In addition to Mr. Talera and Mr. Sharma, several other distinguished professionals were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the hospitality sector. Their dedication and commitment serve as inspirations for industry professionals, embodying the spirit of excellence and innovation.

As India's tourism sector continues to grow, it is essential to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of industry stalwarts. HRAWI's forthcoming convention in Goa aims to propel growth and promote best practices nationwide, in line with India's aspirations of becoming a global tourism hub.


Hyatt Regency Dehradun Redefines Spiritual Travel with Wellness-Led Retreats

Hyatt Regency Dehradun Redefines Spiritual Travel with Wellness-Led Retreats

By Hariharan U

Published on May 5, 2026

Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa is introducing a fresh perspective on spiritual travel, positioning itself at the heart of the Chaar Dham circuit while offering a destination-led experience that blends pilgrimage with wellness and immersive hospitality.

Set in the tranquil foothills of Mussoorie, the resort presents itself as more than just a stopover for travellers. It becomes a place where journeys can begin, pause, or conclude, allowing guests to experience spirituality alongside comfort, space, and curated experiences.

Designed with multi-generational travellers in mind, the property enables varied experiences to coexist. While some guests focus on their pilgrimage journey, others can engage in wellness therapies, leisure activities, and recreational offerings within the resort. Evenings are thoughtfully curated with shared rituals that foster cultural connection and moments of quiet reflection, while still allowing guests the flexibility to follow their own pace.

Extending beyond the property, curated spiritual excursions connect guests with the region’s sacred landscape. Visits to Haridwar and Rishikesh, along with temple explorations such as Tapkeshwar Temple, offer a deeper immersion into the spiritual ethos of the region. Guests can also witness the serene Ganga Aarti, seamlessly integrated into their stay experience.

To support pilgrims, the resort’s dedicated concierge team provides end-to-end assistance for those undertaking the Chaar Dham Yatra. From travel planning and transport logistics to personalised itineraries and on-ground coordination, every detail is managed to ensure a smooth and meaningful journey.

Within the resort, wellness continues to anchor the experience. Guests can participate in morning yoga and meditation sessions, indulge in spa therapies, and unwind through curated evening rituals followed by ‘Hi-tea’, creating a balanced rhythm of activity and relaxation.

By bringing together spirituality, wellness, and hospitality, Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort & Spa offers a layered and cohesive experience, one where each guest, whether travelling for pilgrimage or leisure, can find a sense of pause, presence, and personal connection.


SaltStayz Enters Leisure Segment with Autograph Launch in Rishikesh

SaltStayz Enters Leisure Segment with Autograph Launch in Rishikesh

By Hariharan U

Published on May 1, 2026

SaltStayz has marked its entry into the leisure travel segment with the launch of its premium ‘Autograph’ property in Rishikesh, one of India’s most sought-after wellness and spiritual destinations.

Previously focused on business travel markets such as New Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Chandigarh-Mohali, the brand is now expanding its footprint to cater to guests seeking experience-led stays in leisure destinations. SaltStayz Autograph Rishikesh is positioned to offer high-quality accommodation combined with a deeper connection to the destination.

Strategically located, the property provides easy access to prominent landmarks such as Triveni Ghat and Parmarth Niketan Ashram, along with connectivity to iconic spots like Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula. Despite its central location, the property is designed to offer a calm and retreat-like environment.

With a strong focus on wellness, the hotel integrates experiences such as yoga sessions, guided spiritual walks, and bicycle tours, allowing guests to explore Rishikesh at a slower, more mindful pace. Dedicated meditation spaces further enhance the holistic experience. The 38-key property also features an all-day dining restaurant, including a pure vegetarian outlet inspired by the legacy of Moti Mahal.

Gaurav Gupta, Co-Founder of SaltStayz, noted that Rishikesh is witnessing a clear shift towards wellness-led travel, with guests increasingly seeking immersive and experience-driven stays. He added that the launch of the Autograph category reflects both evolving consumer preferences and the company’s broader expansion strategy.

The brand highlighted that post-pandemic travel trends have significantly boosted demand for leisure and spiritual tourism, with wellness emerging as a key factor in destination selection. The Rishikesh launch aligns with this shift, offering thoughtfully designed stays at competitive pricing.

Alongside its new Autograph category, SaltStayz’s portfolio includes Select and Premier offerings. Founded in 2022, the Gurugram-based company currently operates 32 properties across India, with 30 more in the pipeline. The Autograph brand is expected to play a central role in its expansion into high-potential leisure destinations.

With this launch, SaltStayz continues to evolve its offering, moving beyond business travel to create experiences that combine comfort, accessibility, and meaningful engagement with destinations.


Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts Expands UK Presence with The Royal Hotel Cookstown

Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts Expands UK Presence with The Royal Hotel Cookstown

By Hariharan U

Published on April 30, 2026

Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts has announced the addition of The Royal Hotel Cookstown to its international portfolio, marking a significant step in strengthening its presence across the United Kingdom.

The move reflects the group’s strategy of building a curated collection of distinctive hospitality destinations that combine design, cultural authenticity, and personalised guest experiences.

Under this partnership, the property will continue to be owned by the Thom family, while Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts will take over the day-to-day management. The collaboration is designed to merge the hotel’s established legacy with the group’s experience-led approach, ensuring a balance between operational efficiency and high-quality service delivery.

The group plans to focus on refining the hotel’s brand positioning across regional and international markets, while enhancing operational performance. Key initiatives will include strengthening service delivery through people-first training, implementing structured operational frameworks, and driving commercial outcomes through disciplined revenue strategies. A more cohesive, design-led identity across guest touchpoints is also part of the transformation plan.

Commenting on the expansion, Richa Adhia, Managing Director, said, “We are delighted to expand our presence in Northern Ireland with The Royal Hotel Cookstown. This is a natural step in strengthening our footprint in our home market while continuing to build a globally connected portfolio. Our focus will be on elevating operational performance and guest experience, while preserving the property’s identity and legacy.”

For guests, the transition is expected to be seamless, with existing service standards maintained while benefiting from enhanced operational systems and upgraded experiences.

With a growing portfolio that includes brands such as Treetop, Hanric, Stamps, Ocho Homes, and Signature Collection, Eight Continents continues to expand across key destinations. Its presence spans regions including Belfast, Guernsey, and Zanzibar, alongside a strong footprint in India across Kasauli, Varkala, Udaipur, Sariska, Jodhpur, and Pushkar.

Founded in 2020 by Haninder Sachdeva, the group has positioned itself as a design-led, experience-driven hospitality brand, focusing on boutique properties that blend local heritage with global standards.

This latest addition reinforces the group’s ambition to build a globally connected hospitality network while maintaining a strong emphasis on curated, meaningful travel experiences.

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