IHCL's Grand Entrance into Lakshadweep: Two New Taj Resorts Set to Dazzle

IHCL's Grand Entrance into Lakshadweep: Two New Taj Resorts Set to Dazzle

By Author

Published on January 10, 2024

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India's most extensive hospitality company, has announced a significant expansion with the signing of two new Taj-branded resorts in the pristine Lakshadweep Islands. The projects, located on the islands of Suheli and Kadmat, represent IHCL's commitment to pioneering luxury travel experiences in unexplored destinations. Set to open in 2026, these Greenfield projects will be developed by IHCL, marking a new chapter in the region's tourism landscape.

Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of IHCL, expressed his enthusiasm for the venture, "This signing aligns with IHCL's legacy of pioneering new destinations. Our focus on sustainability will ensure we create a minimal footprint while preserving Lakshadweep's delicate ecosystem. We're excited to introduce these world-class Taj resorts, which we believe will be a major draw for both international and national travellers."

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The Taj resort on Suheli Island will feature 110 rooms, including 60 beach villas and 50 water villas, all set against the backdrop of a vibrant coral reef rim that encircles a stunning lagoon rich in marine life. Kadmat Island, also known as Cardamom Island, will host the second Taj property, boasting 110 rooms comprising 75 beach villas and 35 water villas. This coral island, surrounded by a large lagoon, is a marine protected area and is famous for its seagrass beds, home to nesting marine turtles.

Lakshadweep, India's smallest Union Territory, is an archipelago of 36 islands in the Arabian Sea. Known for its breathtaking beauty, the islands are a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as scuba diving, windsurfing, snorkelling, surfing, water skiing, and yachting.

About IHCL: IHCL, under the umbrella of the Tata Group, operates iconic brands like Taj, known for its luxurious and discerning offerings; SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels; Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels; and Ginger, a revolutionary player in the lean luxe segment. The company's first hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace in Bombay, opened in 1903. Today, IHCL has a global portfolio of 252 hotels, including 67 under development, across four continents, 11 countries, and over 100 locations.


Hotels.com Unveils Hotel Room Innsights Report: Surprising Finds and Unique Perks

Hotels.com Unveils Hotel Room Innsights Report: Surprising Finds and Unique Perks

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 12, 2024

Hotels.com has launched its eagerly anticipated Hotel Room Innsights Report, offering a fascinating glimpse into the quirky world of hotels. This year’s report highlights the most bizarre items left behind, unconventional room service orders, and hidden hotel perks from over 400 partner hotels worldwide.

Lost and Found – The Oddest Items Left Behind

From priceless items to quirky finds, the report reveals some of the most surprising items left behind by hotel guests:

  • The Priciest: A Rolex, a Birkin bag, and even a $6 million watch were among the high-value items forgotten.

  • Pet Peeves: A chick and a pet lizard were found and returned after their owners checked out.

  • Essentials Only: Guests have left behind two full-leg casts and, interestingly, dentures were reported by 10% of hotels.

  • The Unexplainable: Items such as a rice cooker, car tire, blender, and construction pipes were among the more inexplicable finds.

Hotels are now adapting to help guests recover their forgotten belongings. For example, the Viceroy Riviera Maya offers a soap concierge, and the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel has a "Forgot it? We've got it!" program allowing guests to borrow items like sunglasses and handbags.

Room Service – Turning Requests into Art

Gone are the days of standard room service. The report highlights some of the most peculiar orders:

  • An Evian-filled bathtub for a pure water bath

  • Customized allergen menus for pets

  • Burnt toast

  • A caviar hot dog

  • 4lbs of bananas

  • A high five from a team member to confirm the order

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Hotels are increasingly accommodating these unique requests. For example, W Osaka features a 'Whatever/Whenever' button for any request at any time, and Hospes Maricel & Spa offers Beauty Room Service for facials and high-tech treatments.

Hidden Hotel Perks – Extraordinary Amenities You Never Knew You Needed

Explore some of the most extraordinary perks:

  • A 400-year-old Japanese garden at Hotel New Otani Tokyo The Main

  • A guitar concierge at the Four Seasons Hotel Austin

  • Very Important Pets services, including a pet acupuncturist, at The Sentinel Hotel in Portland

  • Private guided tours of the British Museum at The Montague on the Gardens in London

  • Personalized wine tasting experiences at Villa Gallici Hôtel & Spa

Hotels.com also shares tips for maximizing your stay, such as requesting specific room features to enhance comfort and quiet. VIP Access properties offer additional perks for One Key members, including room upgrades, spa vouchers, and free breakfast.

To explore these unique services and book your next stay, visit Hotels.com.


Royal Orchid Expands in Nepal with Regenta Resort and Spa, Chitwan

Royal Orchid Expands in Nepal with Regenta Resort and Spa, Chitwan

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 10, 2024

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) has announced the opening of its second property in Nepal, the Regenta Resort and Spa, Chitwan. Located by the Narayani River and framed by the Mahabharata Mountain range, the resort is designed for both business and leisure travelers. This follows the success of ROHL’s first property in Nepal, Regenta Place Sabrina.

Chitwan is well-known for its rich wildlife, hosting species like the Bengal Tiger, Rhinoceros, and Leopards. Regenta Resort and Spa, Chitwan is positioned close to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering guests easy access to one of Asia’s most well-preserved parks. Besides exploring the park, visitors can also experience the local culture by visiting nearby attractions like Devghat and Chitwan Tharu Village.

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Chairman and Managing Director of ROHL, Chander K. Baljee, shared, “India and Nepal have long-standing connections of history, culture, tradition, and religion. We extend our deepest gratitude to the welcoming communities of Nepal for their support. We have added 481 keys this year, bringing the total to over 6,397. We aim to capitalize on this exceptional location to uplift the hospitality landscape in Nepal.”

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The resort spans 4.6 acres and combines natural beauty with traditional architecture. It features 51 rooms, including Plunge Pool Suites, Quad Rooms for backpackers, and Premium Family Rooms with views of the jungle and river. Guests can dine at the in-house restaurant, PINXX, which offers Nepalese, continental, Indian, and Chinese cuisine.

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Philip Logan, COO of ROHL, remarked, “Tourism plays a significant role in Nepal’s economy, with India leading the inbound market. Regenta Resort and Spa, Chitwan, showcases our commitment to building a robust hospitality ecosystem in the region.”

Alongside accommodation, the resort offers a variety of amenities including a spa with therapeutic treatments, a fitness center, a swimming pool, and indoor and outdoor play areas. It also provides facilities for business events, weddings, and social gatherings, making it a versatile destination for both corporate and leisure guests.


Eight Continents Hotels Expands with Stamps Red Martin in Amritsar

Eight Continents Hotels Expands with Stamps Red Martin in Amritsar

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 10, 2024

Eight Continents Hotels and Resorts has announced the addition of Stamps Red Martin to its growing portfolio. Located in Amritsar, this new property offers guests a prime location close to the Golden Temple, key historical sites, and vibrant local markets, making it an ideal spot for travelers who want to explore the city’s cultural heritage.

The hotel features 18 Executive Rooms and 6 Suites, all designed to provide guests with comfort and luxury. Rooms come equipped with modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs, high-speed Wi-Fi, mini-bars, coffee and tea makers, air conditioning, electronic safes, and premium bedding. With its mix of business and leisure offerings, the hotel caters to a variety of travelers.

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Guests can also enjoy dining at the hotel’s all-day restaurant, which focuses on regional culinary traditions. The diverse menu offers a taste of the local cuisine, appealing to both tourists and food enthusiasts.

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“We are excited to bring Stamps Red Martin into our portfolio. This hotel perfectly aligns with the Eight Continents brand, offering luxury accommodations and excellent service in the heart of Amritsar,” said Richa Adhia, Managing Director of Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts. “Our guests will benefit from world-class amenities and have the unique opportunity to stay close to India’s most iconic landmarks.”

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The hotel’s central location places it just 150 meters from the Partition Museum and Jallianwala Bagh, with the Golden Temple only 260 meters away. Visitors can also easily access other attractions such as Sadda Pind, 11.5 kilometers away, and the Wagah Border, 35 kilometers from the property.

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Stamps Red Martin offers a range of services, including a 24-hour front desk, concierge, daily housekeeping, and round-the-clock room service, ensuring a seamless guest experience. The property also has a travel desk to assist with local tours and transportation.

Eight Continents Hotels and Resorts, a global hospitality brand, is known for delivering exceptional guest experiences at luxury properties worldwide. The company continues to expand by adding premium properties to its portfolio in key locations across India and around the world.

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