Leadership with Heart at Lyfe Hotels Bhubaneswar

People First, Always: Vaishakh Surendran’s Vision for Lyfe Hotels Bhubaneswar

By Vaishakh Surendran

Published on June 10, 2025

Vaishakh Surendran, the General Manager of Lyfe Hotels & Resorts in Bhubaneswar, brings a rich experience and a people-first philosophy that is redefining the hospitality space in Odisha’s capital. Under his leadership, the hotel is fast becoming a standout in the city’s competitive hospitality scene. With a progressive approach, sustainable practices, and a commitment to nurturing talent, Vaishakh and his team are creating a space where both guests and employees thrive.

We sat down with Vaishakh Surendran to understand the vision behind Lyfe Hotels, the cultural and operational essence of the property, and what sets it apart in the evolving hospitality landscape of Bhubaneswar.

1. What inspired your approach to leading Lyfe Hotels & Resorts in Bhubaneswar, and how do you ensure the property stands out in a competitive hospitality landscape?

“I have worked with various brands and owners during my stint as GM over the last 12 years,” says Vaishakh. “While most focus on improving revenue and profitability, what stood out during my interview with our Chairman Shri Srinibash Sahoo was his emphasis on human capital. He expressed a vision for a hotel with near zero attrition, and that deeply resonated with my personal belief that valuing people is the foundation for long-term success. Happy employees lead to happy guests, and that in turn drives repeat business and profitability.”

Being a relatively new entrant in the Bhubaneswar hospitality scene, Lyfe Hotels has experienced both challenges and milestones. But Vaishakh is confident about their distinctiveness. “Our vision and offerings are designed to align with what modern guests seek—experience-led stays. From our location and unique architecture to stylish rooms and the much-talked-about F&B experience, we’ve set ourselves apart. Notably, our Thai restaurant ‘Sweet Basil’ is the only one in Eastern India to feature an expat chef. At the end of FY 2024–25, we surpassed the topline revenue of many established branded hotels in the city, and that motivates us to aim even higher.”

2. What were some of the key priorities you focused on when you took charge, and how have they shaped the overall guest experience at the hotel?

Vaishakh outlines three key priorities: increasing revenue, optimizing operational efficiency, and improving profitability. “In addition, I’ve always focused on nurturing our People, Product, and Processes,” he shares. “Our Net Promoter Score (NPS) has risen to 85, and we’re targeting 90+. While revenues are strong, we’re continuously identifying areas to improve. Our attrition rate is well within industry standards, and we ensure 100% compliance with all statutory and Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) norms.”

3. Bhubaneswar is a vibrant mix of tradition and progress. How do you blend the city's cultural essence with the contemporary vibe of the Lyfe brand?

“Bhubaneswar is known as the Temple City, but it’s also emerging as a hub for sports, IT, and commercial ventures,” he says. “This blend of the old and new aligns perfectly with our brand ethos. While most hotels follow predictable formats, Lyfe offers something fresh. We bring a contemporary design sensibility and guest experience, while also practicing sustainable tourism rooted in Odisha’s cultural heritage. That’s how we stand out.”

4. How is the property embracing environmentally conscious practices, and what impact have these had on both operations and guest perception?

At Lyfe Hotels, sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a core value. “Our brand values are encapsulated in the acronym SPIRIT, where 'S' stands for Sustainability,” Vaishakh explains. “From design to daily operations, every element is conceived to reduce our environmental footprint. We use natural lighting, LED fixtures, motion-sensor-based utilities, solar panels, EV charging stations, paper pens, and an in-house water bottling plant. We avoid single-use plastics and locally source all fruits, vegetables, and meat. These efforts resonate well with our guests and align with global best practices.”

5. What leadership philosophy do you follow to motivate your team and maintain high service standards throughout the hotel?

“I believe in being present on the shop floor,” says Vaishakh. “It helps me get a first-hand feel of the guest experience and staff morale. I interact regularly with guests and team members, and maintain an open-door policy that encourages honest conversations.”

He also focuses on empowering his team through knowledge sharing and skill development. “I conduct regular training sessions based on best practices and my personal experiences. I believe every team member should be empowered to bring out their best. When people feel valued and free to innovate, service quality naturally improves.”

6. What is your long-term vision for Lyfe Hotels & Resorts in this region, and how do you plan to elevate the brand’s presence further?

Vaishakh envisions Lyfe Hotels becoming the preferred hospitality brand for guests, employees, and owners alike. “Rather than replicating a cookie-cutter format, we aim to create unique properties that reflect the spirit of their locations,” he shares. “Each hotel will carry the DNA of Lyfe Bhubaneswar but offer a distinct experience. That’s how we plan to grow—not just in numbers, but in character and guest impact.”

Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels Launches UAE Engagement for Eco-Tourism

By Hariharan U

Published on October 9, 2025

Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels has launched a UAE engagement initiative as part of its Global Alliance Collaborator (GAC) program. The program connects communities and organizations across the UAE with global partners, supporting the development of movable underwater hotels at 33 destinations worldwide.

The eco-luxury underwater hotels, designed under a U.S. Patent-approved concept, will feature 26 guest suites located about 30 feet below the surface, offering panoramic views of marine ecosystems. The project also integrates coral reef restoration using Biorock technology, promoting biodiversity and long-term sustainability.

Tony Webb, founder of Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels, said, "Our vision is to create opportunities for collaboration between nations while protecting fragile marine environments. By inviting participation from the Emirates, we see alignment with regional strategies such as Dubai’s D33 Agenda and Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030."

As part of the initiative, local organizations in the UAE are encouraged to promote participation in the GAC program. The program offers employment opportunities in hotel and resort operations and provides a platform for regional media to raise awareness about sustainable tourism and marine conservation.

Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels emphasizes community involvement, workforce development, and environmental benefits. A core aspect of the initiative is supporting coral reef restoration to enhance local ecosystems while contributing to global sustainability goals.

About Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels LLC

Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels, LLC is an international eco-tourism venture developing movable underwater hotels that combine luxury travel with marine conservation. Based on U.S. Patent Design D736,947, the project integrates advanced engineering, sustainable practices, and global community collaboration.

For more information, visit Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels or contact Tony Webb via email at info@PlanetOceanUnderwaterHotel.com.

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Sterling Launches Sterling Ameris Kasauli, Its 5th Resort in Himachal

By Hariharan U

Published on October 9, 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts has launched Sterling Ameris Kasauli, a boutique retreat nestled amidst pine-clad slopes and panoramic Shivalik views. Located along the scenic Dharampur–Kasauli Road, the resort invites travellers to slow down and rediscover mindful mountain living.

Once a colonial hamlet, Kasauli has grown into one of North India’s most loved escapes, where misty mornings, heritage trails, and a gentle pace of life blend seamlessly. Just a short drive from Chandigarh and Delhi NCR, Sterling Ameris Kasauli offers peace, wellness, and understated sophistication for travellers seeking a serene getaway.

The resort features Shivalik-facing rooms with private sit-outs, combining contemporary mountain chic with natural elegance. Warm palettes, handcrafted accents, and design simplicity mirror the quiet grace of its surroundings.

Dining at Valley View offers more than a meal, it’s a mindful experience. The pure-vegetarian menu features local classics like Siddu, Sepu Vadi, and Cholai Kheer, reinterpreted with modern sensibilities and served against panoramic mountain views. As evening falls, the terrace transforms into an open-air lounge, ideal for yoga, relaxation, or leisurely conversations.

As part of Sterling’s Discoveries & Experiences program, guests can explore Gilbert Trail, Manki Point, Christ Church, Sunset Point, or join guided pine walks to fully experience Kasauli’s charm.

Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO of Sterling Holiday Resorts, said, "Sterling Ameris Kasauli reflects our intent to grow with purpose, expanding into destinations that embody serenity, design, and discovery. Our ‘What a Trip’ curated circuits link destinations like Kasauli, Chail, Shimla, and Kufri into immersive travel experiences, shaping a soulful travel ecosystem across India."

Madhav Gupta, Director of Satvik Bliss Pvt. Ltd., added, "Our vision for Ameris Kasauli was to create a retreat that honours the land’s natural grace while offering guests refined simplicity. Partnering with Sterling was a natural choice, and together we hope to present Kasauli as a destination that stays with you long after you leave."

About Sterling Holiday Resorts

Sterling Holiday Resorts is a leading hospitality brand in India with a footprint across hills, beaches, jungles, heritage, and spiritual destinations. With five resorts in Himachal Pradesh, including Chail, Kasauli, Kufri, Shimla, and Manali, Sterling offers immersive experiences for today’s travellers. A wholly managed subsidiary of Thomas Cook (India) Limited, Sterling continues to blend local character with national scale, crafting memorable stays across India’s favourite holiday destinations.