In the ever-evolving hospitality industry, where reputation, guest satisfaction, and visibility dictate success, branding has become a cornerstone for businesses to thrive. Praveen Tiwari, Founder of Bizzcom Solutions, emphasizes that while branding covers multiple facets, the role of a Public Relations (PR) agency is central to creating, maintaining, and amplifying a hospitality brand. A strategic PR partner not only helps position a business as a market leader but also builds trust, strengthens guest loyalty, and navigates challenges with confidence.

In today’s competitive landscape, where countless properties compete for attention, having a distinct brand identity is essential. PR agencies help hospitality businesses define their vision, mission, and core values while crafting narratives that resonate with target audiences. For example, a boutique hotel might highlight luxury and exclusivity, whereas a hotel chain may focus on affordability and reliability. Through tailored messaging and impactful campaigns, PR agencies ensure that each brand’s unique character stands out and connects emotionally with guests.

Visibility is another pillar of success, and PR agencies excel in ensuring that hospitality brands are seen by the right audience at the right time. Their strong relationships with journalists, influencers, and bloggers covering travel and hospitality enable them to secure prominent coverage across media platforms. Whether promoting a new hotel opening, announcing a restaurant’s revamped menu, or highlighting a seasonal offer, PR agencies drive awareness and bookings through strategic media outreach. Positive press and social media coverage not only boost a brand’s credibility but also enhance its appeal to potential guests.

Beyond visibility, storytelling plays a key role in forging emotional bonds. PR agencies are experts at creating stories that humanize a brand and build lasting impressions. Whether sharing the history of a heritage hotel or the eco-friendly initiatives of a modern resort, these narratives create emotional connections with guests and inspire loyalty. A luxury resort, for instance, might tell the story of its commitment to environmental conservation, encouraging guests to become advocates for the brand.

In today’s digital age, reputation management is a critical function of PR agencies. A single negative review or online controversy can impact a brand’s image. PR professionals proactively monitor online presence, respond to guest feedback, and ensure a consistent and positive brand voice across platforms. When crises arise—be it a food safety issue or operational disruption—a PR agency’s expertise in crisis communication helps manage situations effectively, preserving trust and helping brands recover stronger.

Guest relationships also benefit significantly from well-executed PR strategies. Through personalized communication, loyalty campaigns, and engagement initiatives like contests or live Q&A sessions, PR agencies cultivate a sense of community around hospitality brands. Recognizing loyal guests, sharing success stories, and offering exclusive promotions foster trust and encourage repeat visits.

Finally, PR agencies deliver measurable results through data-driven approaches. By tracking media coverage, campaign performance, and guest sentiment, they provide actionable insights to optimize branding efforts. In a sector where trust, loyalty, and guest experience define success, partnering with a skilled PR agency is no longer optional—it’s essential.

By entrusting branding, media outreach, and reputation management to experts, hospitality businesses can focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences while building resilient, recognizable brands in a competitive marketplace.

Booking.com, as part of its ongoing mission to make travel easier for all, has released new research highlighting the travel challenges faced by Indian neurodivergent travellers and the innovative solutions they seek for a more inclusive and stress-free journey.

The study, launched during Neurodiversity Celebration Week, reveals that while 79% of neurodivergent Indian travellers feel that current support meets their basic needs, 68% still experience difficulties, calling attention to the need for better industry-wide support, clearer communication, and a more thoughtful approach to inclusivity.

The report sheds light on essential areas where travellers are seeking change:

Travel rehearsals: A significant 74% of neurodivergent Indian travellers want access to ‘travel rehearsals’ — simulated scenarios that help them prepare for their journey beforehand. This could prompt airlines to introduce advance check-in, boarding walkthroughs, and familiarisation experiences. Attractions could also benefit by disclosing sensory-intense areas like strobe-lit zones prior to visits.

Sensory-friendly spaces: More than three-quarters (77%) are asking for sensory rooms where they can regulate their environment, while 74% would like more designated quiet spaces in locations like airports and hotels. In addition, 75% would like hotels and airlines to offer ‘block out noise’ amenities such as noise-canceling headphones or white noise machines as part of their standard offerings.

More inclusive design: The research also points to a demand for more inclusive accommodation options, with 76% requesting advance floor plans and contact-free check-ins. Meanwhile, 75% are looking for airlines to enhance cabin layouts to improve physical comfort and personal space.

On an industry level, 77% of respondents emphasise the importance of specialised training for travel professionals to better understand and meet neurodivergent needs.

AI-driven navigation tools: The research highlights optimism about technology’s role in reshaping the travel landscape. Almost four in five (79%) believe AI-powered tools could help reduce travel-related anxiety by providing real-time updates, navigating delays, and pointing them toward quieter, less stimulating areas within busy airports or hotels. This demand for personalised, tech-enabled solutions could help bridge accessibility gaps on a larger scale.

Commenting on the findings, Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com, said, “Every traveller’s experience is unique and our findings reveal numerous opportunities to better understand the challenges neurodivergent travellers face. At Booking.com, we believe that travel should be a positive experience for everyone. While hotels and airports are working towards adapting to neurodivergent needs, by sharing these insights, we hope to inspire industry-wide collaboration, creativity and innovation, ultimately building a travel environment that's more inclusive and welcoming for all.”

Through collaborative efforts and tech-enabled solutions, the travel industry is poised to deliver a more seamless, accessible, and meaningful experience for neurodivergent travellers across India.

Manglam Group, a leading real estate developer in Rajasthan, is stepping into India’s ₹82,000 crore hospitality sector with a ₹1,000 crore investment plan over the next five years. With over 70 successful real estate projects, the group is set to build premium hospitality assets that will elevate Rajasthan’s luxury tourism landscape.

Rather than acquiring existing properties, Manglam Group will focus on greenfield developments, targeting high-growth areas such as destination weddings, leisure travel, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).

The group recently unveiled the upcoming Westin Jaipur Resort, a 150-room luxury property along the Delhi-Jaipur Highway, and has already started work on a second hospitality project within a mixed-use development in Jagatpura, Jaipur. This new hotel, developed in partnership with a global hospitality brand, will add around 200 rooms to Jaipur’s growing luxury hotel segment.

With Rajasthan being India’s top destination for grand weddings—part of a $130 billion industry growing at 13–15% annually—Manglam Group plans to create bespoke resorts that blend regal heritage with modern luxury. The expansion also targets India’s booming MICE industry, valued at $4.5 billion, by offering upscale accommodations and conference facilities for business travelers.

“Our ₹1,000 crore hospitality investment is a strategic step toward reshaping Rajasthan’s tourism industry. The demand for world-class luxury experiences is at an all-time high, and Manglam Group is committed to delivering exceptional hospitality assets that cater to this evolving market,” said Ms. Amrita Gupta, Director, Manglam Group.

Jaipur continues to be a magnet for couples seeking royal backdrops for their weddings. Manglam Group aims to enhance this appeal by offering eco-conscious luxury resorts that blend sustainability with Rajasthan’s architectural charm.

In line with India’s 2070 net-zero goal, Manglam’s upcoming projects will integrate eco-friendly practices such as solar passive zoning, renewable energy systems, rainwater harvesting, and the use of recycled and locally sourced materials. These sustainable initiatives aim to minimize environmental impact while preserving Rajasthan’s heritage.

Manglam Group’s long-term hospitality vision includes launching a diverse portfolio of properties across Rajasthan and exploring new opportunities in destinations like Goa. With a plan to develop 1,000 rooms initially, the group is positioning itself as a major player in India’s luxury hospitality sector.