Up Norway Expands Leadership Team Amid Growing Demand for Luxury Travel

Up Norway Expands Leadership Team Amid Growing Demand for Luxury Travel

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 16, 2024

Up Norway, a sustainable luxury travel company, has appointed Karoline Hoff as its new Managing Director. Founder Torunn Tronsvang, who has led the company since its inception in 2016, will now take on the role of Chief Experience Officer (CXO). This leadership change marks a significant step in Up Norway's continued commitment to providing luxury travel experiences rooted in Norwegian culture and sustainability.

Tronsvang expressed her excitement about the transition, emphasizing the company's mission to become a leading expert in value-driven luxury travel. "Karoline's strategic expertise guiding our growth allows me to focus on innovating exceptional travel experiences and inspiring positive change through our journeys," said Tronsvang.

Hoff has worked in various industries, including at Møller Mobility Group, WiMP Music (now Tidal), Orkla ASA, and McKinsey & Company. Hoff holds both Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Economics and Business Administration from The Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration (NHH). With her background in project management, strategic planning, and team leadership, Hoff is expected to play a key role in Up Norway's future.

Erik Jakobsen, a board director at Up Norway, praised Hoff’s appointment, noting her leadership will help meet the growing demand for value-driven travel experiences. "Hoff's leadership will be instrumental in refining our strategic direction and meeting the increasing demand for value-driven travel experiences that reflect Norwegian authenticity, respect for nature, and community engagement," he stated.

Hoff, in turn, expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, stating, "I'm thrilled to join Up Norway and lead the team in creating unforgettable experiences for our travelers. I'm incredibly impressed by what the team has accomplished so far, and I'm excited to be part of this journey to make Norway the world's most attractive travel destination."

Tronsvang’s move to CXO reflects her dedication to Up Norway’s mission of offering authentic, sustainable travel experiences. Since founding the company, she has sought to counter the superficial travel experiences often associated with Norway. Under her leadership, Up Norway has become a top sustainable travel curator, offering bespoke itineraries that highlight Norwegian culture while prioritizing environmental and social responsibility.

Tronsvang will now focus on her passion for destination and experience development, working closely with local partners to continue shaping Up Norway's unique offerings. "I am excited about my new role as Chief Experience Officer," Tronsvang said. "This transition is part of our vision for the company's future. Collaborating with Karoline will be vital as we advance our mission to make Norway the world's most attractive travel destination."

Up Norway’s leadership changes come at a time of significant growth. The company has already added five new team members in 2024, reflecting increasing demand for its eco-friendly, luxury travel experiences. Up Norway’s expansion strategy, guided by B Corp principles, aims to offer high-quality travel experiences without sacrificing sustainability.

For more details on Up Norway, visit their website at upnorway.com.


AIPL Joy Gallery Adds UCB & U.S. Polo Assn. to Elevate Gurugram’s Premium Fashion Scene

AIPL Joy Gallery Adds UCB & U.S. Polo Assn. to Elevate Gurugram’s Premium Fashion Scene

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

AIPL Joy Gallery, located in Sector 66, Gurugram, has announced the leasing of approximately 11,000 sq. ft. of prime retail space to international fashion heavyweights United Colors of Benetton (UCB) and U.S. Polo Assn. This strategic addition brings a fresh wave of global style to the shopping hub, bolstering its appeal as a premier destination for discerning shoppers in the city.

Known for its vibrant Italian knitwear, UCB and the timeless sporty elegance of U.S. Polo Assn. will now be part of the mall’s growing portfolio of global brands. This move not only enriches AIPL Joy Gallery’s premium fashion offering but also positions it as a dynamic conduit connecting local consumers with international lifestyle trends.

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Commenting on this milestone, Ishaan Singh, Director, AIPL, said, “We are delighted to welcome United Colors of Benetton and U.S. Polo Assn. to AIPL Joy Gallery. Their presence reinforces the growing confidence in our project and highlights its positioning as a premium lifestyle destination in Gurugram. At AIPL, we aim to create more than just shopping spaces — we envision vibrant destinations where people can enjoy a complete, high-quality retail and leisure experience.”

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AIPL Joy Gallery has consistently attracted leading brands looking to cement their presence in Gurugram’s thriving retail landscape. This leasing achievement underscores AIPL’s broader vision of crafting thoughtfully designed commercial spaces that foster brand growth, elevate urban lifestyles, and redefine modern retail experiences.

With a robust pipeline of reputed brands and a commitment to quality and innovation, AIPL continues to shape vibrant consumer-centric spaces. As Joy Gallery evolves, it stands as a testament to the group’s dedication to delivering premium, strategically positioned lifestyle destinations that resonate with today’s shoppers.


Wyndham Garden Jim Corbett Appoints Vikkas Sharma as General Manager

Wyndham Garden Jim Corbett Appoints Vikkas Sharma as General Manager

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

Wyndham Garden Jim Corbett, Chhoi has announced the appointment of Vikkas Sharma as the hotel’s new general manager. In this role, Sharma will oversee overall hotel operations, focus on maximising revenue potential, enhance guest experiences, and foster a positive work environment for team members.

Given Jim Corbett’s popularity as a tourist destination famed for its tiger reserve, Sharma will also play a crucial role in promoting Wyndham Garden across key tourism markets.

Prior to joining Wyndham Garden, Sharma served as general manager at Lemon Tree Premier, Jim Corbett, where he managed hotel operations, sales and marketing, and staff development.

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Speaking on the appointment, Omesh Bansal, owner of Wyndham Garden Jim Corbett, Chhoi, said, “Vikkas is a talented and experienced hospitality professional and will play a key role in ensuring that Wyndham Garden, Jim Corbett continues providing guests with the same high-quality service and exceptional value that it has become known for in the Jim Corbett community.”

A native of Gurugram, Haryana, Sharma completed his B.Sc from Kurukshetra University in 1995 and went on to earn a diploma in hospitality management from Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan, New Delhi in 1998.

His rich industry experience and deep understanding of hospitality operations are expected to further strengthen Wyndham Garden Jim Corbett’s position as a preferred choice for travellers visiting this scenic wildlife haven.


Dishant Baria Joins Courtyard Aravali Resort Faridabad as Executive Sous Chef

Dishant Baria Joins Courtyard Aravali Resort Faridabad as Executive Sous Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 1, 2025

Courtyard Aravali Resort Marriott, located in the scenic surroundings of Faridabad, has appointed Dishant Baria as its new Executive Sous Chef. Bringing with him more than 12 years of rich culinary experience, Baria is set to infuse the resort’s dining offerings with creativity and finesse.

Throughout his career, Dishant has worked with some of the most prestigious hospitality brands including Hyatt, Imperial, Westin, and ITC. His deep-rooted passion for crafting exceptional dining experiences and his flair for blending traditional flavours with modern techniques have earned him accolades from guests and peers alike.

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Before joining Courtyard Aravali Resort, Baria was part of the culinary team at Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi. Reflecting on his journey, Dishant shared, "My time at Westin Gurgaon was an incredible experience. I had the privilege of working alongside a team of highly skilled professionals, which helped further refine my approach to culinary excellence."

In his new role, he will lead the culinary team at Courtyard Aravali Resort, focusing on enhancing the gastronomic journey for guests while maintaining the highest standards of quality and innovation. His leadership is expected to elevate the resort’s dining experiences across all outlets.

With this appointment, Courtyard Aravali Resort aims to further strengthen its culinary offerings, blending the beauty of its natural setting with an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

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