Renewed Grandeur: Taj Mahal Hotel Marks 45 Years with Major Revamp

Renewed Grandeur: Taj Mahal Hotel Marks 45 Years with Major Revamp

By Author

Published on December 3, 2023

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), backed by the Tata Group, commemorates the 45th anniversary of its flagship property, the Taj Mahal Hotel in New Delhi, known colloquially as Taj Mansingh. Following a high-stakes public auction by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) in 2018, IHCL retained ownership of this iconic hotel and embarked on an extensive renovation, investing nearly Rs 250 crore.

The revamp of the Taj Mahal Hotel reflects IHCL's commitment to keeping pace with evolving customer preferences while honouring its storied past. The hotel now boasts 40 luxury suites, including five themed suites that celebrate India's rich heritage. The introduction of two floors of luxury apartments, equipped with kitchens and wardrobe spaces, caters to guests seeking longer stays.

image

IHCL's renovation extended to the hotel's dining spaces, such as Machan and House of Ming, alongside the reimagining of Chambers with luxury fashion and lifestyle brand Stefano Ricci. A collaboration with Johnny Walker has brought a new dimension to the hotel’s offerings with the blue label bar and cigar lounge. The hotel's wellness facilities have been expanded, and all pools are now heated, starting with this property.

Suma Venkatesh, IHCL's executive vice president for real estate and development, stated that the renovated hotel has already restored its pre-renovation levels of revenue and profits, despite higher lease rentals. She emphasised the transformation of the hotel's accommodation mix and the focus on luxury-driven and high-end offerings to drive rates.

image

Vijay Thacker, MD of Horwath HTL India, pointed out that the addition of suites and apartments at the Taj Mahal Hotel is expected to strongly enhance rate gains, positively impacting profits. The Taj Mahal Hotel, with its prime location in Lutyens' Delhi, has always been a preferred choice for global travellers and dignitaries.

As per the NDMC details from 2018, IHCL's lease renewal for another 33 years involved a significant increase in the monthly licence fee. The renovation, according to Venkatesh, was not just an update but a re-envisioning of the property for the next decade, reflecting IHCL's foresight in hospitality trends.

The Taj Mahal Hotel, a symbol of luxury and prestige, remains integral to IHCL's portfolio, both emotionally and commercially, as one of the top five revenue-earning hotels in India for the group.


Potato Head Bali Crowned Best Hotel for Sustainability at Telegraph Awards

Potato Head Bali Crowned Best Hotel for Sustainability at Telegraph Awards

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 19, 2024

Potato Head Bali has been recognized as the best hotel in the world for sustainability at the prestigious Telegraph Hotel Awards. The hotel earned this honor for its exceptional commitment to eco-friendly practices and its positive impact on the local community.

image

Described as "Hip and Progressive, and creative destination that is as good for the planet and local community as it is for the body, soul, and Instagram account," Potato Head Bali stands out for its forward-thinking approach to hospitality. The hotel’s dedication to sustainability is not just a marketing point but an integral part of its operations and ethos.

image

This award is a testament to Potato Head Bali’s tireless efforts to promote sustainability, making it not only a luxurious destination but also a leader in environmental responsibility. Their contributions to preserving the planet and supporting the surrounding community make them an example for others in the hospitality industry to follow.

image

The hotel’s motto, "Good Times, Do Good," perfectly captures the spirit of their mission—offering guests an unforgettable experience while prioritizing environmental and social responsibility. This recognition is well-deserved and highlights their role as a pioneer in sustainable hospitality.


Home2 Suites by Hilton Marks Growth and Innovation Milestone

Home2 Suites by Hilton Marks Growth and Innovation Milestone

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 19, 2024

Since its debut in 2011, Home2 Suites by Hilton has become a leader in extended stay accommodations, reaching new heights in the hospitality industry. Celebrating the opening of its 700th hotel and with over 750 more in development, the brand is evolving to meet the changing needs of modern travelers. It aims to provide flexible, comfortable, and memorable stays for both leisure and business guests.

Home2 Suites by Hilton has been recognized as the top Upper Midscale/Midscale Extended Stay brand in J.D. Power’s 2024 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study for the second consecutive year. This achievement is a testament to the brand's ongoing commitment to innovation, guest satisfaction, and responsible design. Notably, it was the first Hilton brand to welcome pets and remains a frontrunner in sustainable hotel practices.

image

The brand’s global expansion continues with properties in key markets across the world. After making a significant entry into the APAC region in 2020, Home2 Suites has 60 locations already open and plans to operate 1,000 properties there. Its expansion into Europe, the Middle East, Africa (EMEA), and Latin America marks a new era for the brand, offering extended stay accommodations to a wider audience.

Home2 Suites is known for its home-like amenities that cater to a broad range of guests, including families, sports teams, and business travelers. Each suite comes with a fully equipped kitchen, outdoor spaces with grills, and an integrated fitness and laundry facility, making long stays more comfortable. The brand also focuses on creating a sense of home with features like Spin2Cycle, where guests can work out while doing laundry, and outdoor firepits for relaxation. These thoughtful touches have helped the brand build loyalty among guests.

In addition to its guest-centric approach, Home2 Suites has become a favorite among developers due to its efficient, cost-effective hotel prototypes. The latest designs offer flexible suite layouts, spacious lobbies for socializing, and a grab-and-go market. The brand recently introduced two new design packages that allow hoteliers to choose from different styles, ensuring each property meets market-specific demands without compromising on quality.

image

Food and beverage offerings are a key component of the Home2 Suites experience. Each suite has ample kitchen amenities, including a full-size refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, toaster, and coffee maker. Guests can also request induction burner cooktops at no extra charge. In the U.S. and Canada, Home2 Suites is piloting a new breakfast menu, offering guests more choices and a personalized start to their day. Additionally, its partnership with Grubhub in the U.S. enables guests to order food seamlessly and explore local dining options.

Home2 Suites places a strong emphasis on sustainability. The brand is committed to reducing its environmental impact through energy-efficient building materials, LED lighting, and Energy Star-rated appliances. Guests are encouraged to participate in sustainable practices by using amenities like hydration stations, recycling bins, and electric vehicle charging stations. The brand also played a pioneering role in eliminating single-use plastic containers, offering full-size bath amenities instead.

The brand’s forward-thinking approach allows it to remain competitive and adaptable in a rapidly changing market. As Home2 Suites continues to grow and expand into new regions, it remains committed to innovation, guest satisfaction, and sustainability. By balancing comfort, flexibility, and responsible practices, Home2 Suites by Hilton is positioning itself as a leader in the extended stay sector, and its journey is just beginning.


Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata Promotes Inclusion with Specially-Abled Associates at Kava

Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata Promotes Inclusion with Specially-Abled Associates at Kava

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 19, 2024

Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata has taken a notable step towards fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) by hiring specially-abled individuals at its all-day dining outlet, Kava. This initiative is part of the hotel’s broader commitment to aligning with Marriott International’s DEI goals, which emphasize being a global leader in creating a sense of belonging for all.

In collaboration with the Sarthak Educational Trust, Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata hired associates who are deaf and non-verbal, bringing their exceptional skills to the forefront at Kava. These specially-abled team members are playing a key role in the restaurant’s success, demonstrating the hotel’s dedication to inclusivity. Despite the challenges they face in communication, these individuals bring an unparalleled attention to detail and passion to their roles, setting a new standard for the hospitality industry.

image

Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata’s General Manager, Manoj Jangid, expressed his pride in this initiative, stating, "In an industry where communication is pivotal, Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata is setting a new standard by integrating associates with diverse abilities into its team. Their passion to serve others is so inspiring. They’ve brought smiles, warmth, and love to our restaurant Kava. Their employment is not only a testament to their individual skills but also an affirmation of the hotel’s dedication to inclusivity."

The hotel has implemented comprehensive training programs to ensure that the new associates integrate seamlessly into the team. These efforts reinforce a collaborative and respectful workplace culture, benefiting both the employees and guests. This initiative also aligns with the hotel’s belief that embracing diversity enhances the guest experience by fostering a more empathetic approach to service.

The positive impact of this initiative extends beyond the workforce, as it also enriches the overall experience for guests. By promoting a culture of inclusion, Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata not only provides exceptional service but also sets an example for the hospitality industry as a whole.

image

Additionally, Rohan Sirohia, Founder and CEO of Goodwyn Tea, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of heartfelt service in the hospitality sector. "Hospitality means serving from the heart. A nicely brewed tea can be made by any hands, but the right aroma comes from the heart that makes it, and that’s what makes them so special," said Sirohia.

Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata’s commitment to diversity and inclusion reflects Marriott International’s global vision. With a focus on creating an inclusive environment, the hotel aims to provide a welcoming space for all individuals, including its employees and guests. This initiative highlights the transformative power of embracing diversity in the workplace and the hospitality industry as a whole.

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.