IndIa
A U g U S T 2 0 2 1 `150
A WELLNESS WORLD Exploring India's wellness resorts
JABBED TO TRAVEL Airlines and their vaccination efforts
SOUTH AFRICAN SOJOURN Traversing new regions
MonuMental
Moscow This Russian city has much to offer to every kind of traveller
DININg DECODED Hottest dessert trends
CONTENTS INDIA
R E G UL A R S 05
UPFRONT
Business travel news and luxury speak 76
AUGUST 2021
F E AT UR E S 24
AV I AT I O N
Jabbed to travel
42 ON TH E C OVER
IndIa
A U g U S T 2 0 2 1 `150
A WELLNESS WORLD Exploring India's wellness resorts
JABBED TO TRAVEL Airlines and their vaccination efforts
SOUTH AFRICAN SOJOURN Traversing new regions
Moscow This Russian city has much to offer to every kind of traveller
M O N U M E NTAL M OS C OW
OPINION
This Russian city has much to offer to every kind of traveller
Columns by experts on the latest in the hospitality and travel industry
BTI_COVER _Aug-Sept 21 Final 26 July.indd 1
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DININg DECODED Hottest dessert trends
MonuMental
29/07/21 4:23 PM
TIME STOPPER
Seamaster Aqua Terra by Omega 79
SHOWSTOPPER
Valkyrie AMR Pro by Aston Martin
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D E S T I N AT I O N SOUTH AFRICAN SOJOURN
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Exploring the country’s news regions, wines and its sustainable travel model
WELLNESS Our recommendations of wellness resorts in India
TH E R E P O R T
82
TRIED & TESTED HOTEL 81
Intercontinental Marine Drive
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TRENDS Hottest dessert trends
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BTI SHOWCASE
Divine inspiration by Sachin Chauhan business traveller india
AUGUST 2021
WELCOME
W
alking into another month of 2021, we feel the light of optimism shining on our industry - slowly but surely. The world is slowly opening up again, and a number of countries have relaxed their restrictions - many even for Indians! For example - Switzerland and France are allowing Indians vaccinated with a double dose of Covishield. While writing this issue, Russia is allowing Indians, provided the traveller has an invitation from a government-mandated tourist agency, along with a negative RT-PCR test taken 72 hours before departure. Moscow - on our list of cities to visit post the pandemic - makes it to our cover story, as we vicariously take you through this futuristic metropolis that has become the face of new-age Russia. We also talk about South Africa, which can currently be travelled to, provided Indian travellers follow certain regulations - which are delved into more in the feature. Airlines and their vaccination programmes have been vital to the opening of travel, and we tell you how global carriers have raced to the fully vaccinated circle for their crew and endeavoured to facilitate inoculation in their recovery plans. Taking care of our wellness - mental and physical - is also the need of the hour. And we tell you hotels and resorts you could consider in India - if a relaxing and rejuvenating workation is on your mind. Indulgence during the pandemic means devouring different cuisines, and hotels ensure that we pick their restaurants for that weekly gastronomical break. Our next story talks about the hottest dessert trends that seem to have taken over the country. The above along with a review of striking Mumbai hotel, luxury picks of the season, latest travel news and updates, make up our stunning August 2021 issue. We hope you enjoy reading it - as much as we enjoyed putting it together! Safe travels!
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Akanksha Maker Managing Editor
IN THIS ISSUE
A WELLNESS WORLD
MONUMENTAL MOSCOW
SWEET TREATS
Our recommendations of wellness resorts in India (Page 32)
This Russian city has much to offer to every kind of traveller (Page 42)
Hottest dessert trends (Page 52)
AUGUST 2021
SOUTH AFRICAN SOJOURN
Exploring the country’s news regions, wines and its sustainable travel model (Page 64) business traveller india
UPFRONT LUXURY SPEAK
ULTRA-LUXE ESTATE LAUNCHES IN CANNES
ULTIMA COLLECTION IS expanding its portfolio with the launch
of Ultima Cannes Le Grand Jardin in 2022. The only private property on the island of Sainte-Marguerite, this is a historic, walled private estate that was previously home to royals such as Louis XIV. Exclusively accessible by boat (just ten minutes from Cannes) or helicopter, the property will have 11 bedrooms, with expansive suites in the Governor's House and The Tower; multiple relaxation and dining areas both indoor and out; a heated outdoor pool, an open-air cinema and a spa. ultimacollection.com
ONBOARD EXPLORA JOURNEYS
THE MSC GROUP has announced a new ultra-luxe cruise brand
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“Explora Journeys” in partnership with Fincantieri, an Italian shipbuilding company based in Trieste, Italy. The first of four luxury ships will debut in 2023, with the remaining ships ready in 2024, 2025, and 2026. Itineraries will start with seven nights, offering guests a unique marine holiday experience covering destinations such as Saint Tropez, Bordeaux and Reykjavik, and hidden gems such as Kastellorizo, Bozcaada and the Lofoten Islands. The innovative ship will feature 461 oceanfront suites and residences. There will be nine distinct restaurants focusing on wholesome ingredients sustainably sourced from local partners. explorajourneys.com
MONTBLANC UNVEILS NEW MULTI-FUNCTIONAL LEATHER GOODS
THE MONTBLANC M_GRAM 4810 has established itself as the brand’s signature leather collection with its original all-over logo treatment, since its launch. The collection now sees the addition of new multi-functional medium and small leather pieces that can be worn in multiple ways. Elevate your wardrobe with small clutch, mini folio and mini envelope, wallet, pocket holder and business card holder with zip, coin case with zip, medium backpack with three compartments, clutch, washbag, vanity bag, mini pouch, key pouch, loop key fob, diamond shape key fob. A belt bag, clutch, mini envelope, pocket holder and loop key fob are also available in the bold new blue colour tone. montblanc.com business traveller india
AUGUST 2021
CONTRIBUTORS
SACHIN MYL AVAR APU
MADAN PRASAD BEZBARUAH
Sachin Mylavarapu is the general manager at JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort and Spa. A seasoned hotelier, he has almost two decades of expertise in the hospitality industry. In this issue, he shares his views on travel amidst the new normal for our Air Miles segment. See page 10
Madan Prasad Bezbaruah is the secretary general of Hotel Association of India. He is a senior bureaucrat with close to four decades of experience working in the circle of power – both at the Centre and State. In this issue, he gives insights on the hospitality industry on page 76.
JUHI CHHEDA
SACHIN CHAUHAN
Juhi Chheda is the co-founder of CustomHolidays. A certified mountaineer and an advanced scuba diver, Chheda describes herself as an adventure enthusiast. She also has an experience in advertising. In this issue, she talks about customised vacations becoming a key aspect of travel on page 78
Sachin Chauhan is an India-based photographer and content creator. His work revolves around nature, travel and architecture. This issue features a stunning click of Meenakshi Amman Temple by Chauhan. See page 82
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AUGUST 2021
business traveller india
UPFRONT LUXURY SPEAK
CHECK OUT: COFFEE TABLES BY WEST ELM
ELEVATE YOUR HOME DECOR with a variety of elegant coffee tables from the upscale home decor and furnishing brand West Elm. Origami Coffee Table is a statement piece inspired by the Japanese art of paper folding and features a hand-inlaid bone-tile top with a lightweight base. Another is the Marble-Topped Pedestal Coffee Table, a unique piece that works more with traditional decor. It features a white Carrara marble top within a metal base. If dramatic shapes are your style, then check out the brand’s Marcio Coffee Table. Its dark walnut-finished base is crafted of wood certified to FSC standards. westelm.in
AMINU INTRODUCES MARINE CLAY MASK
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THIS MARINE CLAY MASK by the new homegrown and holistic skincare brand Aminu is a must-try for the season. The mask contains Canadian marine clay, produced from a meteorite that fused with the earth 214 million years ago, then glaciated five to eight times. The marine clay mask offers to your skin all the bio vitality of wild nature. The synergy of this oneof-its-kind clay with licorice, mulberry, and uva ursi extracts create a unique mask that revitalises, regenerates, hydrates, exfoliates, deeply cleans the skin, stimulates blood flow, helps reduce inflammation, and helps eliminate toxins. aminu.life
VERTAGEAR PL4500
WORK FROM HOME takes on a luxurious
look with this Swarovski crystals-adorned chair by Vertagear. Essentially a chair made for high-end gamers, it can also be used by business travellers who are missing the comfort of business class seats with a touch of luxe. The chair boasts of high-end ergonomics as well. Featuring a repeating diamond pattern made from crystals on the top-stitched body along with royal purple detailing, Vertagear PL4500 carries a holographic feel. vertagear.com
business traveller india
AUGUST 2021
INDIA
Publisher & CEO Ravi Lalwani Managing Director Julian Gregory Editorial Director Tom Otley Executive Director Meena Lalwani EDITORIAL Managing Editor Akanksha Maker Assistant Editor Nisha Shroff Features Writer Sanchita Nambiar Production & Design Head Amit Chavan Contributors Madan Prasad Bezbaruah, Juhi Chheda, Sachin Mylavarapu ADVERTISING Commercial Director Ravi Lalwani Email ravi@panaceapublishing.co.in CONTACT Editorial tel +91 22 2215 0557 Email editorial@panaceapublishing.co.in Website businesstraveller.com Twitter.com/bt_ind Instagram businesstravellerin Facebook.com/BusinessTravellerIndia Advertising tel +91 9820022110 Email info@panaceapublishing.co.in
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AUGUST 2021
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business traveller india
UPFRONT
GANDHINAGAR RAILWAY STATION BECOMES FIRST IN INDIA WITH FIVE-STAR HOTEL OVER TRACKS GUJARAT’S GANDHINAGAR RAILWAY STATION is being
redeveloped by Indian Railway Stations Redevelopment Corporation (IRSDC) and is the first in India with five-star hotel over tracks. The hotel building on live running tracks is operated by The Leela Group. Vibration and acoustics studies were
done through reputed international consultant to ensure that passengers in concourse and guests in the hotel do not experience discomfort during the passage of trains. An elevated bridge of 937 m length has been constructed to reach the hotel at 22 m from ground level. irsdc.in
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ALILA DIWA GOA UNVEILS NEW EVENT SPACE ALILA DIWA GOA has launched a new
concept event space called Udeta. Udeta features an expansive indoor space of 1,114 sqm that can accommodate more than 1,200 guests. It includes a 334 sqm of pre-function area and the largest pillarless indoor space in South Goa. Udeta also features a built-in live Theatre Kitchen and other outdoor lawns spreading across 557 sqm with a built-in bar and grill. An expert team of event planners is available and artisanal gourmet experiences are curated to help you organise the event of your choice. alilahotels.com/diwagoa
business traveller india
AUGUST 2021
UPFRONT
AIR MILES
Sachin Mylavarapu is the general manager at JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort and Spa. A seasoned hotelier, he has almost two decades of experience in the hospitality industry. Mylavarapu speaks to Business Traveller India about travel amidst the new normal. Have you begun travelling again for work - if yes, which are the destinations you have visited?
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As travel outside the state has not been possible, this time has been wisely spent in exploring the uncharted territories of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, the land of Gods. My exploration trips have certainly led to enriching our guest experiences having reached parts of the unexplored Kumaon region from our location which is at the foothills of the Garhwal Hills to immerse in their culture. Subsequently having launched the Kumaoni Thali and a pure vegetarian Devbhoomi Thali which has its dishes inspired from the offerings of all the major religious pilgrimage destinations within Uttarakhand has seen a great response from all our guests fuelling our desire to innovate and explore further.
Which is the country you would like to visit once again, when travel opens up?
Spain as a destination has always been really close to my heart as a travel enthusiast. The country and the people go above and beyond with their genuine hospitality. For a country with such a rich heritage and architectural brilliance, aces it across experiences and offerings for travellers across genres.
What kind of a traveller are you a busy one or a relaxed one?
That is definitely a tough one to categorise. Well, I am relaxed to an extent until I cover the destination across all aspects – unique offerings, food, culture and more importantly people that form the fabric of a place. You can call me a well-planned itinerary driven traveller.
What are a few things we would find in your carry-on luggage?
My AirPods are the energy to my music soul, so that is a certainty. Apart from that, running shoes and comfortable
clothing coupled with the destination information in my phone are truly my travel companions.
Do you think travel will ever go back to being the same again or will we now live with this new normal?
It is how one embraces the change that will truly shape the future of travel. The light at the end of the tunnel shows that there are quite a few positives that have emerged as well with the new normal and are here to stay like the extra onus on hygiene and safety standards across all products and services in the tourism sector at least. Digital innovation is moving towards peak optimisation wherein all menu and experience information have been made contactless. To an extent that in JW Marriott Mussoorie, our maximum guests prefer utilising the Mobile Key features while they stay with us shows how people have imbibed new features progressively.
SPICEHEALTH ROLLS OUT COVID VACCINATION PROGRAMME FOR GENERAL PUBLIC
SPICEHEALTH HAS LAUNCHED a Covid vaccination drive for the general public
across five states by tying up with major hospitals in Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Jharkhand. The healthcare arm of Spicejet has rolled out vaccination centres at Delhi’s Aashlok Hospital and Paras Hospitals in four states. It will soon start Covid vaccination at various collections centres and labs spread across nine cities in India. Customers can book their vaccination slots on its website. Spicehealth is offering customers a single dose of Covishield at `780 as per government guidelines. Spicejet passengers, with a valid PNR, can avail the single dose at a price of `750.
spicehealth.com
AUGUST 2021
business traveller india
UPFRONT
T EL HO OF
NT
H
THE ST. REGIS MUMBAI
THE MO
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ONE OF MUMBAI’S top addresses, The St. Regis Mumbai is an ideal stay option for leisure as well as business
travellers. Located in the bustling neighbourhood of Lower Parel, the property guarantees a one-of-a-kind experience that is soaked in luxury and opulence. The tastefully designed rooms, suites and apartments boast stunning vistas of the city. The dining venues include The Sahib Room & Kipling Bar serving Indian delicacies, Seven Kitchens for international delights and By the Mekong offering finest Asian cuisine. The hotel offers expansive ballrooms, banquet halls and outdoor venues for hosting large and small gatherings. Recreational amenities include a well-equipped fitness centre, a swimming pool and a spa. marriott.com
business traveller india
AUGUST 2021
UPFRONT
CATHAY INTRODUCES NEW “PREMIUM TRAVEL LIFESTYLE BRAND”
A NEW OVERARCHING ‘CATHAY’ brand has been launched which the group says will bring together Cathay Pacific and its Marco Polo Club and Asia Miles schemes. Simply known as ‘Cathay’, the new offering is being touted as “a premium travel lifestyle brand”, with offers set to be rolled out on spending, dining, shopping, hotels and wellness. Initially the brand will only be marketed in Hong Kong, with a new Cathay cobranded credit card and “a refreshed customer relationship programme” coming in the first half of 2022. The aim is then to expand the brand to other markets “over time”. cathaypacific.com
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EMIRATES LAUNCHES NEW ACCOUNTBASED PAYMENT METHOD FOR PURCHASING AIR TICKETS
EMIRATES HAS LAUNCHED Emirates Pay, a new account-based payment method for purchasing air tickets. The airline has developed this solution in partnership with Deutsche Bank. Emirates Pay is now available for the airline’s customers in Germany and the UK who are purchasing tickets via emirates.com. Emirates Pay is based on real time payments and Open Banking / Request-to-Pay schemes. Through this method, the airline provides all the necessary account and payment information and passengers approve the payment initiation in a convenient way via their online or mobile banking. emirates.com
AUGUST 2021
business traveller india
UPFRONT
WELLNESS DESTINATIONS TO VISIT POST THE PANDEMIC SPA AND CLINIC, ULTIMA GSTAAD LOCATED IN GSTAAD, SWITZERLAND, Ultima Gstaad is an ideal
pick to rejuvenate amidst stunning setting. The expansive spa includes a hammam, sauna, swimming pool and an indoor and outdoor jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, in addition to treatment rooms. All treatments feature products by Swiss Perfection. At the Aesthetic Clinic, the property offers treatments such as detoxes, check-ups, botox and laser among others. ultimacollection.com
VILLA STEPHANIE SPA & WELLBEING, BADEN – BADEN THE VILLA STEPHANIE SPA & WELLBEING at Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, Germany ensures luxurious treatments in glorious surroundings. Covering an area of 5,000 sqm, an entire mansion is dedicated to the spa experience. Here medical care incorporates a range of preventative healthcare programmes and specialist treatments. oetkercollection.com
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ARMANI/SPA, ARMANI HOTEL MILANO ARMANI HOTEL MILANO’S ARMANI/SPA is an oasis that reflects
the lifestyle and design by Giorgio Armani. The 1,000 sqm spa is dedicated to relaxation and fitness. There is also an exclusive area featuring a pool, saunas, steam baths and ice waterfall. On offer are a selection of treatments designed to induce a deep relaxation sensation and release physical stress. armanihotelmilano.com
CHIVA-SOM INTERNATIONAL HEALTH RESORT – THAILAND THAILAND’S HOTTEST WELLNESS address Chiva-Som is strictly for those travellers seeking an escape from the stresses of everyday life or looking to make a conscious effort towards a healthier lifestyle. Spanning across seven acres, the resort makes for an ideal destination to start your wellness journey. Choose from six modalities that focus on fitness, spa, nutrition, physio, ascetic beauty and holistic elements. chivasom.com business traveller india
AUGUST 2021
UPFRONT
CHEVAL BLANC PARIS TO OPEN ON SEPTEMBER 7, 2021
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CHEVAL BLANC, THE brand developed by LVMH Hotel Management, is set to open its
new property – Cheval Blanc Paris on September 7, 2021. Remodelled by architect Edouard François, the listed building’s decor was reimagined by architect Peter Marino in the style of a Parisian residence. Overlooking the Seine, in the heart of the capital, this urban haven will feature 26 rooms, 46 suites, and four restaurants. Guests can embark on a culinary journey curated by Arnaud Donckele, chef of the gastronomic restaurant, and Maxime Frédéric, pastry chef. lvmh.com, chevalblanc.com
UBER INDIA DEVELOPS RESTAURANT STORYTELLING FEATURE ON EATS APP
UBER’S HYDERABAD-BASED
technology team has come up with an interactive feature called Merchant Stories on Eats app. The feature allows merchant partners to connect directly with their eaters. Through this innovation, merchants can now sign up for the Merchant Stories feature to post regular updates. They can upload photos and add text to tell their customers about special deals, menu changes, new services, or seasonal promotions. Currently, this feature has been rolled out in the US and Canada. uber.com AUGUST 2021
business traveller india
UPFRONT
FLIGHT NEWS VISTARA has started nonstop flights between Delhi and Tokyo Haneda. Under the air bubble agreement between India and Japan, the airline will fly once a week between the two cities using its Boeing 7879 Dreamliner. GO FIRST has resumed flights to Maldives. There will be four flights a week from August and daily flights will be available from September 1 onwards. SPICEJET has launched 42 new flights on its network. The low-cost carrier will operate first flights on Surat-Jabalpur and Surat-Pune routes. The airline will also be connecting Surat with the key metros of Jaipur, Hyderabad and Bengaluru and Gwalior with Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Pune.
DIVING DEEP
DUBAI NOW BOASTS the world’s deepest swimming
pool for diving. Located in Dubai’s Nad Al Sheba neighbourhood, Deep Dive Dubai’s pool has been verified by Guinness World Records as the world’s deepest swimming pool for diving at a depth of over 60 metres and holding 14 million litres of water, the equivalent of six Olympic-sized swimming pools. The pool also has a sunken city that divers of all levels can explore. Freediving and scuba diving experiences and courses are offered to all ability levels by a team of international diving professionals. deepdivedubai.com
business traveller india
INDIGO has launched flights connecting Darbhanga with Kolkata and Hyderabad. The new flight connections are expected to enhance business opportunities in Darbhanga and nearby areas. FLYBIG has started direct flights between Agartala in Tripura, and Dibrugarh in Assam, under the government’s regional connectivity scheme – UDAN. The Indian low-cost carrier is strengthening its network across northeast India and has connected three states in 50 days.
AUGUST 2021
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UPFRONT TRAVEL GUIDE:
UPDATE PASSPORT NUMBER ON VACCINATION CERTIFICATE THE SUPPORT FOR linking passport number
to a vaccination certificate is available to all on the CoWin portal. Following are the steps to follow to update your passport number in your vaccination certificate: ✔ Login to cowin.gov.in. ✔ Select the Raise an Issue button. ✔ Select the passport option. ✔ Select the person from the drop-down menu. ✔ Enter passport number. ✔ Hit the submit button. You are expected to receive the new certificate in seconds, but it may take some more time. cowin.gov.in
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BLS INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS WITH ICCR TO ASSIST VVIP FOREIGN AND INDIAN DELEGATIONS
BLS INTERNATIONAL, a global tech-enabled services partner for governments and citizens has partnered with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to offer protocol services to VVIP foreign delegations coming to India and Indian delegations going overseas. With this partnership, BLS will play an important role in strengthening cultural relations between India and the rest of the world. BLS will provide assistance to VVIP foreign and Indian delegations including dignitaries, artists, foreign scholars, etc. at all the airports in India and abroad. blsinternational.com
AUGUST 2021
business traveller india
UPFRONT
NEW OPENINGS
DUSITD2 NASEEM RESORT, JABAL AKHDAR
THAILAND-BASED HOTEL group Dusit
International has made its debut in Oman with the opening of dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar. Boasting a stunning mountain location, the resort offers elegant rooms and suites. Other features include an all-day dining restaurant, a fitness centre, and a large outdoor swimming pool. dusit.com
FAIRFIELD BY MARRIOTT SOUTH BINH DUONG SITUATED IN THE BINH DUONG province,
the hotel is within a 45-minute drive from the country’s commercial capital, Ho Chi Minh City, and a 20-minute drive from the Tan Son Nhat International Airport. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped with modern amenities. The hotel houses restaurants serving Vietnamese and western classics. marriott.com
HAMPTON BY HILTON MARJAN ISLAND
LOCATED ON A 750-METRE beach, the hotel
is 77 km from Dubai International Airport and is in close proximity to Ras Al Khaimah city centre, Al Hamra Mall, and Al Hamra Golf Club. The hotel’s interiors are inspired by a “day at the beach”. F&B options include Flavors, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, Surfs Up beach food truck, the H2O pool bar, and The View lobby cafe. hilton.com
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AUGUST 2021
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UPFRONT
IHCL SELEQTIONS HOTEL OPENS IN HARIDWAR
THE INDIAN HOTELS COMPANY'S Seleqtions brand has
opened a new property in Haridwar in Uttarakhand. Set on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, at the foothills of the Shivalik mountains, the Pilibhit House is an aristocratic mansion that features 35 guestrooms and suites. The F&B venue, Dining Room serves vegetarian food with a range of international and local delicacies, including some recipes from the home kitchen of the ancestral family. There is also the open-air Lobby Lounge for guests to unwind with finger foods. Wellness activities include Jiva Spa offering relaxing and meditation sessions with expert instructors. Guests can also participate in curated experiences such as an offbeat holy tour, a trip to ashrams, a forest riverbed picnic, and a wetland tour of the Chiriyapur Forest Range. seleqtionshotels.com
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DUSIT ANNOUNCES NEW HOTEL IN HUA HIN, THAILAND
DUSIT INTERNATIONAL HAS expanded its operations in Thailand with the opening of dusitD2 Hua Hin. This is Dusit’s third hotel in Hua Hin. The pet-friendly retreat is just a seven-minute walk from Hua Hin’s main beach and nearby popular local attractions such as Cicada Market and Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall. The hotel features 152 modern guestrooms and suites ranging in size from 30 to 92 sqm, including selected rooms equipped with petfriendly amenities for up to two pets. Dining facilities include Cafe Soi, an all-day dining restaurant where guests can indulge in traditional delicacies from Surat Thani, Phuket, Songkhla, Krabi and beyond; Som Bar, a rooftop bar inspired by Hollywood party pads where guests can enjoy cocktails along with panoramic sea views; and Dusit Gourmet, Dusit’s signature bakery and coffee shop for a variety of Thai and international favourites. dusit.com AUGUST 2021
business traveller india
UPFRONT
ACCOR SIGNS SO/ MALDIVES
ACCOR HAS ANNOUNCED that it will open SO/ Maldives in 2023. The hospitality company has signed a hotel management agreement with S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited and Wai Eco World Developer Pte. Ltd. (WEWD). The 80-villa SO/ Maldives is on an island overlooking the Emboodhoo Lagoon, located 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé’s Velana International Airport. Accommodation categories in the new Maldives property include beachfront and over-water options, all adorned with designer interiors and plush furnishing. all.accor.com
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RADISSON BLU RESORT DHARAMSHALA OPENS ITS DOORS
RADISSON HAS ANNOUNCED the
opening of Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. Located on the scenic foothills of Dhauladhar range, the resort is easily accessible from Kangra Airport. Spread over 30,000 sqm, it is located 6 km from the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium. Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala offers 120 modern rooms overlooking the most picturesque view of the spectacular Kangra Valley. Accommodation categories include standard, superior, deluxe, suite and presidential suite. The dining venues include The Edge, an all-day dining restaurant serving a range of local and western dishes; Italian Crust - the specialty Pizzeria, and All Out – Lounge Bar serving a fine selection of wine and spirits along with small bites. radissonhotels.com
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AUGUST 2021
F U Tof U R T R A V E 20
Etihad Airways has introduced futuristic initiatives that are transforming how we travel in the new normal
AUGUST 2021
business traveller india
AV I AT I O N
E L 21
P
rior to the global pandemic, individuals across the globe had become accustomed to a simpler travel experience. The past year has seen this practice change as countries globally have announced a different set of travel restrictions and guidelines, constantly updated by governments as well as international and local regulatory health bodies. Hence, planning your journey in the current times is not as much about securing the best pricing options or seamless connections, but more importantly about ensuring a peaceful and safe air travel experience for you and your loved ones. It is imperative that travellers fly with assurance and keeping this in mind, Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has introduced a host of measures to revive the confidence in international travel via initiatives that aim to ease the burden for travellers and ensure they have a peaceful journey, one that not only prioritises their
business traveller india
wellness, but also builds a greener future for aviation and consequently the planet. We take you through how Etihad is transforming the flying experience with a combination of innovation and adaptability, setting high industry benchmarks yet again.
GUEST WELLNESS: ETIHAD’S PRIORITY
A WELLNESS AMBASSADOR ON EVERY FLIGHT
Etihad Wellness is championed by specially trained Wellness Ambassadors, an industryfirst initiative. This multi-lingual team who undergo special training at the airline’s training facilities in Abu Dhabi and online are available round the clock to provide essential travel health information and care so guests can fly with greater peace of mind. They are present on-ground at Abu Dhabi International Airport to ensure the same LEFT AND RIGHT: Etihad Airways aircraft and Wellness Ambassadors AUGUST 2021
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As the national airline of the UAE, Etihad has the advantage of the fact that two thirds of the world’s human footprint is within a four-hour flight of Abu Dhabi
levels of care and support are provided at every point of the customer journey through the airport. This dedicated team is also present onboard every flight, providing an enhanced level of customer care focused on health and wellness inflight. 22
100% OF ETIHAD’S CREW ONBOARD HAS BEEN VACCINATED
In February this year, Etihad became the first airline in the world with all its operating pilots and cabin crew vaccinated to help curb the spread of Covid-19 and give passengers added assurance of safety. This has consolidated the airline’s position as an industry leader in its response to the pandemic and in keeping its employees and travellers safe.
VALIDITY OF ETIHAD’S GLOBAL WELLNESS COVER HAS BEEN EXTENDED
If any guest is diagnosed with Covid-19 during their trip, they won’t have to worry about medical expenses or quarantine costs when they fly with Etihad. The airline has introduced a global Covid-19 wellness insurance as part of their health and hygiene programme, Etihad Wellness, which is included with every Etihad ticket up to September 30 2021. Commenting on the airline’s industryleading initiatives, Neerja Bhatia, vice president, India Sub-Continent, Etihad Airways said, “Although the past year has been challenging, the impact of the pandemic will not deter our commitment to India, a country that Etihad has been serving AUGUST 2021
for sixteen years now. The airline has been prepared to resume services to key Indian gateways, offering seamless connectivity to and convenient transfers via our home, Abu Dhabi. As the national airline of the UAE, Etihad has the advantage of the fact that two thirds of the world’s human footprint is within a four-hour flight of Abu Dhabi. The safety and wellness of our guests and employees is our ultimate priority.”
REVOLUTIONISING TRAVEL WITH INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY
‘VERIFIED TO FLY’ WITH ETIHAD
Etihad’s ‘Verified To Fly’ travel document initiative enables travellers across its global network to validate their Covid-19 travel documents before arriving at the airport. With the formalities out of the way, verified travellers can enjoy fast track check-in at the airport by going to the dedicated Verified to Fly desk for a quicker and smoother experience. Available for the vast majority of Etihad flights, to use the Verified to Fly service, passengers can sign-up by visiting the website and following the simple instructions to upload and submit their travel documents. Guests will receive confirmation once their documents have been approved in line with government requirements and can travel to the airport with confidence and peace of mind, knowing they have met all essential requirements before their flight.
IATA TRAVEL PASS TRIALS
Etihad has been working with a variety of different companies, some within the industry, some outside of it, to develop technology required for a global health certification system. The airline has partnered with the International Air Transport Association to launch the IATA Travel Pass for its guests. This offering, currently under trial, will help passengers easily and securely manage their travel in line with government requirements for Covid-19 tests or vaccines.
FACIAL BIOMETRIC CHECK-IN FOR CABIN CREW
Etihad has partnered with information technology company SITA, to trial the use of facial biometrics to check in cabin crew at the airline’s Crew Briefing Centre at Abu
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Dhabi International Airport. The trial will use facial recognition technology to identify and authenticate crew members, allowing them to complete check-in procedures and mandatory pre-flight safety and security questions digitally via their own mobile devices.
GREENER TOGETHER: ETIHAD LEADS THE WAY FOR SUSTAINABLE AVIATION
ZERO NET CARBON EMISSIONS BY 2050
While commercial aviation still only represents around 2 per cent of global human-made CO2 emissions, the airlines
and infrastructure that support them are those that will lead the future of flying. In January last year, Etihad announced an ambitious target of zero net carbon emissions by 2050, with an additional goal of halving 2019 net emission levels by 2035. This will be achieved through a combination of internal initiatives and collaboration with industry partners to harness technology and innovation for operational efficiencies.
ETIHAD GREENLINER PROGRAMME
Etihad operated its first ecoFlight for 2021 from Abu Dhabi to Rome in April this year, continuing research and testing under the Etihad Greenliner programme to assess environmental sustainability initiatives during scheduled services. This is Etihad’s fourth ecoFlight, operated on the airline’s signature Greenliner aircraft which is fully offset for all operations through 2021 as part of the airline’s mission toward carbon neutral flying. A key pillar of the programme is the Etihad-Boeing strategic global partnership, spearheaded by a specially themed Boeing 787 Dreamliner to test products, procedures and initiatives designed to reduce aircraft carbon emissions.
SUPPORTING THE ECODEMONSTRATOR PROGRAMME
Under its Greenliner programme, Etihad partnered with industry leaders business traveller india
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Etihad Airways’ crew being vaccinated; Etihad Airways’ engineering station and aircraft; and the airline’s crew
Boeing, NASA and Safran on the 2020 ecoDemonstrator programme. This saw an Etihad Boeing 787 aircraft test initiatives to enhance safety and reduce CO2 emissions and noise, including two innovative wellness technologies to combat Covid-19 - a handheld ultraviolet light disinfecting system and an antimicrobial coating to prevent growth of bacteria on tray tables, armrests and other surfaces.
ETIHAD’S EFFORTS TOWARDS DEVELOPING SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL
Exploring the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has been at the core of Etihad’s business for the last decade with the airline a key partner of Abu Dhabi’s Sustainable Bioenergy Research Consortium, along with Boeing, and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company. In 2019, Etihad operated the first commercial flight from Abu Dhabi to Amsterdam on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner using clean, sustainable aviation fuel that had been refined in Abu Dhabi. Sustainable fuel to reduce carbon emissions for the flight was derived from the oil in Salicornia plants, which were grown on the two-hectare farm in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi and refined as part of the Seawater Energy and Agriculture System (SEAS) – the world’s first desert ecosystem designed to produce fuel and food in saltwater. BTI AUGUST 2021
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RAVEL Vaccination and other safety-related initiatives have become an integral part of the reopening of travel including the comeback of aviation
WORDS AKANK SHA MAKER, NISHA SHROFF AND S ANCHITA NAMBIAR
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accination has brought about more than just a ray of hope to the world of travel. Perhaps never in history was a vaccine created with the speed and precision as it did for Covid-19. It was the need of the hour and several pharmaceutical giants jumped into the opportunity, hoping to make the globe a safer place whilst making unimaginable revenue. The pharmaceutical companies such Moderna, Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson announced their vaccines consecutively one after the other, and the race for countries to source vaccines for their citizens began. Some countries managed to get the vials soon, while others are still falling behind. Airlines were the first to announce that vaccination would become an integral part of their recovery plan. Here are the various initiatives adopted by global airlines to integrate vaccination into their recovery plan.
ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS
It was announced in June that All Nippon Airways actively began vaccinating its pilots and cabin attendants flying on international flights against Covid-19. The Japan-based airline became one of the first companies to launch workplace vaccinations in Japan. The airline had then announced that it planned to increase its daily vaccination capacity to about 300 to eventually cover all its 46,500 employees. ana.co.jp
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CATHAY PACIFIC
To ensure their employees are vaccinated on priority, the Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific is proactively undertaking several vaccination programmes. In April, the airline launched the “Arm up, let’s fly again!” campaign to build awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated as early as possible. Other initiatives by The Cathay Pacific Group includes setting up vaccination camps for its employees (specifically in Hong Kong), creating a dedicated page regarding vaccination on its internal platform where they provided insights on the different vaccinations programmes and answered general and specific vaccination queries. Also, to determine whether employees are physically suitable for vaccination, the group organised a free prevaccination medical assessment. cathaypacific.com
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EMIRATES
INDIGO
Indigo has also showcased commitment towards the vaccination of its entire workforce, including its subsidiary Agile. The India-based low-cost carrier is sponsoring vaccination for all its employees and facilitating it for their families as well. As of now, the airline has completed the first dose of vaccination for almost 100 per cent of its employees. It has also initiated the second dose and have been completed for around 25 per cent employees. The airline is targeting to achieve 90 per cent completion for both vaccination doses by end of August. To encourage vaccination among general public, Indigo also launched the Vaxi Fare featuring 10 per cent discount on the base fare to customers who have been vaccinated against Covid-19. goindigo.in
Emirates was among the first few transport and air services organisations in the world to offer employees the option to get vaccinated against Covid-19. Emirates rolled out Covid-19 vaccination programmes for its UAE-based workforce in coordination with the Dubai Health Authority and the Ministry of Health and Prevention. In February, the airline operated its first flight serviced by fully vaccinated frontline teams across all customer touchpoints. In April, the full-service carrier operated a special flight marking the UAE vaccination milestone. The Emirates flight EK2021 carried close to 400 fully vaccinated customers onboard. The flight was also supported by fully vaccinated teams across the aviation ecosystem, from onboard crew to ground staff. emirates.com
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LUFTHANSA
In June, Lufthansa started vaccination of employees in Germany. The initial focus was on the staff who have personal contact with customers, such as aircraft crews or employees at the stations. The airline is also working to allow German customers to access their vaccination certificates directly from its app. Lufthansa Cargo, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lufthansa was among the leading airlines to sign an agreement with UNICEF to support the prioritisation of delivery of Covid-19 vaccines, essential medicines, medical devices and other critical supplies. Even before the global distributions of vaccines started, a speciallyassembled task force was inducted to prepare a variety of possible transport scenarios. lufthansagroup.com
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QATAR AIRWAYS
Demonstrating its readiness for the next phase of global travel, Qatar Airways has been setting high standards of safety and customer service. The flag carrier of Qatar has expanded the IATA Travel Pass trial, becoming the first airline to integrate vaccination certificates in the “Digital Passport” mobile app. This will enable travellers to Doha to share their vaccination certificate via their mobile with the airline and authorities in a more secure and seamless way. With the support of the government and local health authorities, the airline ensured that its staff is vaccinated without any hassle. In April, Qatar Airways operated the world’s first fully Covid-19 vaccinated flight. qatarairways.com
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SINGAPORE AIRLINES
As the city-state aimed to rejuvenate its status as an international travel hub, Singapore Airlines (SIA) began operating flights with full sets of crew members vaccinated against Covid-19 back in February 2021. The airline had then claimed that it expected most of its crew to have received the second dose by the end of March 2021. In the same month, Singapore Airlines became the world’s first airline to pilot the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Travel Pass mobile application for digital health verification, on flights travelling from Singapore to London. The pilot has paved the way for the integration of the entire digital health verification process into the SingaporeAir mobile app using IATA’s Travel Pass framework. singaporeair.com
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SPICEJET
India-based low-cost carrier Spicejet has rolled out several initiatives to streamline the vaccination process across India. The airline launched a company-sponsored vaccination drive that aims to cover employees across all the stations on the airline’s network. The airline stated that it will also facilitate vaccination for the families of employees. The airline’s healthcare arm Spicehealth recently started a Covid vaccination drive for the general public by tying up with major hospitals in Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Jharkhand. It is assisting the government to make the world’s largest-ever vaccination drive a success. spicejet.com
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VIRGIN ATLANTIC
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Virgin Atlantic joined forces with British Airways and Heathrow to launch “proving trials” to simplify travel rules for fully vaccinated passengers. The initiative aimed to convince the government to move forward with its plans to remove quarantine for fully vaccinated passengers entering the UK from “amber” list countries. Virgin Atlantic staff, spanning cabin crew, pilots, ground and office-based teams, signed up to assist the NHS and St John’s Ambulance service in the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine across the UK. The airline worked to secure voluntary and paid opportunities for its staff at NHS mass vaccination centres and local facilities. The NHS has also offered a fast-track application process for Virgin Atlantic employees. virginatlantic.com
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VISTARA
Vistara boasts being the first airline in India to operate flights with cabin crew and pilots fully vaccinated against Covid-19. The full-service carrier has managed to get almost 100 per cent of its staff vaccinated with at least the first dose by adopting a multi-pronged approach that included leveraging airport-led vaccination drives across the country; utilising the infrastructure available from the government and exclusive centres that consider airline staff on priority as frontline staff ; tie-ups with healthcare providers and with Tata ecosystem for exclusive vaccination camps. An internal tool is being developed where health and vaccination-related data can be uploaded by employees as well as central admin. Employees are also being tracked and approached for their second doses based on their eligibility dates. airvistara.com
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OTHER INITIATIVES British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Heathrow joined forces to prove it’s possible to quickly and easily verify those arriving into the UK who are fully vaccinated – an identification process already in place for outbound travel to several countries. The initiative saw fully vaccinated volunteers travelling on selected flights from Athens, Los Angeles, Montego Bay and New York to London Heathrow showing proof of their vaccine status. The trial aimed to reassure Government that airlines and airports can check vaccine status upstream and away from the Border, ensuring no further pressure in UK immigration halls. British Airways customers can also access a discounted rate for the mandatory arrivals tests. “We need to act quickly to protect jobs, re-build the UK economy and reunite loved ones. We are already helping our customers show proof of their vaccination status when travelling to a number of other countries outside the UK which require it, and we’re confident we can make this happen for entry to Britain too, very quickly. We look forward to providing the data that proves it’s simple for fully vaccinated status to be verified and to the Government meeting its commitment to get the country moving again,” says Sean Doyle, British Airways CEO. britishairways.com
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Turkish Cargo, a subsidiary of the national flag carrier Turkish Airlines, has delivered 100 million Covid-19 vaccine doses to more than 35 countries around the world with over 250 flights since the outbreak hit. Turkish Cargo created a global corridor between more than 400 destinations, by transporting vaccines to key destinations such as Turkey, Azerbaijan, Rome, Serbia, Denmark, USA, Brazil and Mexico. Turkish Cargo reaches over 320 destinations – including nearly 100 direct cargo destinations – with a fleet of 371 aircraft. “As the pandemic poses an unprecedented threat to human health, our Turkish Cargo brand has a significant advantage when it comes to combating this threat,” said Ilker Aycı, Turkish Airlines’ CEO. turkishairlines.com BTI
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A WELL
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A LNESS
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The pandemic has made it essential for us to look after ourselves. Here are a few resorts we recommend for that much needed rejuvenation
WORDS AKANK SHA MAKER, NISHA SHROFF AND S ANCHITA NAMBIAR
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PREVIOUS SPREAD: Atmantan Wellness Resort, Pune CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Viva Mayr Maria Wörth (Austria); SHA Wellness Clinic (Spain); and Villa Stephanie (Germany) AUGUST 2021
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he lifting of the lockdown and easing of travel rules has been a sort of new beginning for many. For those of us who travel often, it’s been strange to look at the world and realise that nothing is the same anymore. As Indians, we still face a lot of travel restrictions giving us only a limited spectrum of destinations to visit. A good idea for a break from the mundanity of life at home would definitely be a wellness resort. It’s definitely the need of the hour with the endless stresses the pandemic has bestowed upon us. Wellness resorts are also ideal as they follow social distancing protocols to the T and are extremely safe during a time when visiting a busy city would still be a worrisome idea for many. The trend of wellness resorts to combat stress isn’t a new concept globally. Worldwide, especially in Europe, there are many exceptional resorts that specialise in wellbeing programmes for mental and physical health. Viva Mayr Altausee and Viva Mayr Maria Wörth, Austria are quite popular amongst jet-setting Indians, for example. Time spent at these Austrian resorts has known to yield authentic and long-lasting benefits. The resort’s philosophy balances traditional diagnostics with modern medicine. Ask anyone who’s been here and they’ll tell you that Viva Mayr is a lifestyle, not just a resort. Villa Stephanie in Baden-Baden, Germany with its expansive history of healing; Sha Wellness in Alicante, Spain with its exceptional Mediterranean location between the Bay of Altea and the Sierra Helada Park; and Lanserhof Tegernsee, Germany and Lanserhof Lanz, Austria - a leading health resort, are some others you could consider when borders open up. Indian wellness resorts are not too far behind. The country boasts of several five-star and budget resorts that pride themselves on programmes that offer a mix of Ayurveda, yoga, Naturopathy and other traditional healing methods that have originated in India. Here are a few you must definitely consider for that muchneeded rest and relaxation.
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ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS Perched on a 100-acre Maharaja’s Palace Estate in Northern India, Ananda in the Himalayas is a world-renowned wellness retreat focusing particularly on Ayurvedic practices such as yoga, meditation and the philosophy of Vedanta. The private luxury villas and suites and lavish guestrooms make Ananda a perfect gateway for relaxation, detox, and rejuvenation. The place offers comprehensive programmes including the post-Covid rejuvenation that can be customised according to individual needs. The team at Ananda aims to bring about long-term lifestyle changes with the panchakarma, holistic detox, yogic detox, chronic pain, and stress management programmes. Hydrotherapy facilities at the property include steam, sauna, chill plunge pool, Kneipp hydrotherapy foot bath among others. The retreat is also well-known for offering various experiences hosted by the experts each month. They conduct daily Vedanta talks, golf classes, tours of ancient temples in the neighbourhood, adventure activities like trekking, white water rafting, and wildlife safaris. anandaspa.com
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ATMANTAN WELLNESS RESORT Atmantan Wellness Resort is a spectacular retreat nestled in the hills, overlooking the scenic Mulshi lake in Maharashtra. Spanning across 42 acres of lush green valley, this beautiful 106-key resort is the holistic amalgamation of the atma (soul), mana (mind), and tan (body), and is dedicated to providing guests with a variety of rejuvenating experiences. From master cleanse for cellular detoxification to incorporating the healing energies of traditional Ayurveda, research programmes on guest-centered physical conditions, sessions on improving cardiovascular fitness to lifestyle enhancement, the team ensures their guests attains peace, both mentally and physically. The concept of farm-to-table is highlighted in the dining and is curated with fresh ingredients sourced from local farms. This integrated wellness destination is certified by the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH), a constituent Board of Quality Council of India. atmantan.com AUGUST 2021
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WELLNESS
HILTON SHILLIM ESTATE RETREAT & SPA For denizens of Mumbai and Pune looking for an instant getaway and relaxation amid luxury in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa is ideal. At the core of the resort is the Dharana wellness philosophy that offers wellness programmes meant to uplift your physical and mental health. In fact, its Dharana facilities (including some of the accommodation) are built separately from the rest of the resort at the dedicated 70-acre wellness facility. This includes the Dharana spa and the separate spa pool. Children are not allowed in the Dharana section of the spa hotel. Dharana facility offers various wellness programmes of different durations. The food at resort is also prepared keeping in mind organic ingredients and farm-to-table style of dining. hilton.com
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MEKOSHA The property is 45 minutes away from Trivandrum airport in Kerala, and is tucked away in a private, picturesque location along a river. Each of spacious spasuites at Mekosha has a private spa area or treatment room, from where guests can indulge in unlimited therapies. The Ayurveda packages offered here are all inclusive i.e. they come with yoga, meditation, gourmet meals and stay included. The programmes can be customised as per the guests’ requirements. Mekosha’s botanical shop offers products ranging from hair, skin to pain management, and its botanical services include free doctor-certified body assessment and personalised health advice. They will also help you pick botanicals and formulae for at-home use. The retreat’s culinary offerings are based on the sattvik diet. Guests can also participate in their cooking community and learn how to prepare a healthy meal. mekosha.com business traveller india
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NAAD WELLNESS Situated in Sonipat, Haryana (on the outskirts of New Delhi), Naad Wellness aims to “disconnect, heal, reconnect” for a “sound you”. Based on the ancient principles of Ayurveda, yoga and Naturopathy, its therapies and services are designed to restore balance to your five senses. Each of their experiences have been created around these ancient healing philosophies and are overseen by their resident physicians and experts. Naad is the primordial sound that echoes through the universe and Naad Wellness believes that human bodies are like musical instruments which when tuned regularly produce harmonious melodies. Herbal massages, acupuncture, hydrotherapy, nutritional counselling and cleansing routines are some of the programmes one can indulge in at the resort. naadwellness.com
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NIRAAMAYA RETREATS SAMROHA Perched on a cliff overlooking the majestic Athirappilly waterfalls in Kerala, Niraamaya Retreats Samroha allows you to “be one with nature”. Their multi-award-winning spa pampers guests with therapies that are an ideal blend of traditional Indian wellness rituals and global influence. Ayurveda treatment packages are available for corporate stress management, stress and strain buster, bone and joint care and immunity boosting. To those seeking peace of mind away from the bustling city life, the property offers a wide range of tailormade programmes including music retreats, yoga retreats, art retreats - Mandala designs, sculpting, photography retreats, birding and wildlife and workshops on artistic writings. niraamaya.com AUGUST 2021
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SHREYAS RETREAT Shreyas Retreat, a member of Relais & Châteaux, is designed as a “retreat within a retreat”. It houses the sprawling Anaha wellness spa that aims to offer holistic healing. Ranging from Ayurvedic treatments, modern therapies, Naturopathy to a wide range of massages, the spa is designed to offer a complete wellness experience. Its experienced consultants with knowledge of techniques from across the world create a personalised, wellness regime for the guests. Shreyas is currently offering a “Post Covid Care” package that comprises integrated holistic therapies drawn from multiple systems of healing clubbed with a healthy diet that’s designed to improve immunity. shreyasretreat.com
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SVATMA An experiential boutique hotel located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, Svatma houses Soukyam, a luxury spa that offers holistic treatments, baths and beauty therapies based on ancient health philosophies and systems. One of their highly recommended wellness experiences is Svaram - Sound Spa. The therapy features the Svaram sound bed NidraAnantar – a massage table that has been orchestrated to have 50 strings carefully tuned and stretched underneath. A skilled therapist uses a resonator to create vibrations that leads the guests into a deep state of relaxation. The therapy includes benefits such as de-stressing; opening and dissolving of limiting blockades; calmness that may have emotional effects which influence neurotransmitters and neuropeptides that help to regulate the immune system. A member of Relais & Châteaux, Svatma ensures that its rejuvenating therapies are surrounded by wellness cuisine, daily guided meditation and yoga, nutrition guidance and music performances among others. svatma.in business traveller india
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SWASWARA A CGH Earth resort, SwaSwara is a tranquil retreat situated on Om beach in Gokarna, Karnataka. The hilltop meditation area lets you unwind amidst nature with sea-kissed breeze and stunning views of the mountains. The signature “Swa Wellbeing” programme focuses on the “beginning of an exploration of the self ”. Yogic kriyas, asanas, yoga nidra, meditation, and pranayama, relaxing Ayurvedic abhyanga massages, special focus yoga sessions, guided art and pottery sessions and interactive cooking form a part of this comprehensive programme. Art studio, a dedicated yoga centre, swimming pool and library are a few other facilities available. cghearth.com
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THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA, GULMARG Spread across seven acres, The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa is a haven of luxury. It is a traditional property capturing the essence and beauty of Gulmarg which can be seen in all of its 85 well-appointed guestrooms offering the majestic views of the Affarwat peaks of the Pir Panjal mountain range. A plethora of restorative treatments is available at The Khyber Spa by L’Occitaine, one of the country’s most luxurious and holistic well-being experiences. The resort incorporates a mix of the west and the east with Swedish, Hawaiian, Lomi Lomi, Balinese techniques combined with L’Occitane essential oils. Guests can also explore the world’s highest ski lift, the Gulmarg Gondola which is just minutes from the resort. khyberhotels.com
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VANA Guests staying at Vana wake up to the vistas of a misty Sal Forest, fruit orchards, and beautiful gardens where the day typically begins with asanas and meditation. The retreat features 66 rooms and 16 suites equipped with balconies or terraces. Its wellness offerings are solely based on Ayurveda, yoga, mindful eating and Sowa Rigpa (Tibetan medicine). Vana’s complementary therapies by experts work on the abdomen and other internal organs, cutting through energies and deep emotions. Highly recommended is their Reflexology that removes the stubborn energy blocks to improve organ function. The retreat’s individual assessments will help guests understand their level of fitness, body composition and structural alignment. Doctors at Vana help treating ailments such as auto-immune disorders, neuro-muscular conditions, respiratory concerns, metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal concerns, chronic depression, chronic fatigue, insomnia and eating disorders as well. vana.co.in 41
VIVEDA Located in Trimbakeshwar in Nashik city of Maharashtra, Viveda is an integrated wellness village that promotes healthy living using ancient knowledge and practices. Guests can check-in into one of their handcrafted cottages with floor-to-ceiling windows and door that extend itself to a garden area. Some cottages are equipped with jacuzzi and offer panoramic views of the mountains. The treatments are based on Naturopathy, Ayurveda, Homeopathy and international spa therapies. A one-onone lifestyle consultation with an expert is organised where you can talk about life stressors. A range of thoughtfully curated wellness programmes are available for pain management, fitness, stress management, yoga, detoxification and rejuvenation. The retreat serves nutrient-rich vegetarian sattvik food and vegan dishes that aid digestion enhance the healing experience. vivedawellness.com BTI
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COW This Russian metropolis offers a grand mix of the contemporary and old world charm
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D E S T I N AT I O N S
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tanding on Moskva River in Central Russia, Moscow paves the way for Russia’s futuristic advancements with its industries, tourism and technological expertise. Known for its striking architecture, larger than life museums, bustling F&B and luxurious hotels, the city has intrigued many a cultured travellers. The Russian-capital is home to the third-highest number of billionaires of any city in the world, and has the highest number of billionaires of any city in Europe - as reported by Forbes in 2020. So you can imagine snazzy cars, fancy residential complexes and posh locals in almost every corner of this global city. The metropolis is the financial centre of Russia and houses some of the country’s largest banks as well. Business sectors in Moscow have shown exponential rates of growth since the 1998 Russian financial crisis. The Russian capital also boasts of lowest unemployment rate of all federal subjects of the country. Along with chemical, metallurgy, food, textile, furniture, energy production, software development and machinery industries, Moscow houses the headquarters of the many of telecommunication and technology companies as well. With a celebrated mix of contemporary business and the old-school charm, it isn’t an overstatement to say that Moscow is the face of modern Russia.
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MOSCOW MARVELS
A visit to Moscow entails an entrancing tryst with its mesmerising architecture. The city’s exceptional and long-standing history comes together at the Red Square - one of the first stops you’d probably make on your trip to Moscow. This area is enveloped by some of the most architecturally spectacular buildings of the metropolis. →
Pictured: Zhivopisny Bridge, Moscow business traveller india
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No trip to Moscow is complete without the exploration of St. Basil’s Cathedral - an orthodox church in Red Square of Moscow.
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ST. BASIL’S CATHEDRAL
No trip to Moscow is complete without the exploration of St. Basil’s Cathedral - an orthodox church in Red Square of Moscow. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, the St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most popular cultural icons of the country. Now a museum as well, the cathedral has nine colourful onionshaped domes - each one corresponding to a different Russian church. Every dome is designed like a flame of a bonfire shooting into the sky.
LENIN’S MAUSOLEUM
This is definitely a place that may not appeal to everyone visiting the city - but it’s definitely worth taking note of. Lenin’s Mausoleum serves as the resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin. The mausoleum houses his preserved body that has been on public display there since shortly after his death in 1924. The structure’s elements are inspired by ancient mausoleums, such as the Step Pyramid, the Tomb of Cyrus the Great and the Temple of the Inscriptions.
Pictured: St. Basil’s Cathedral; the Moscow Kremlin; and Lenin’s Mausoleum 47
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THE MOSCOW KREMLIN
A fortified complex in the centre of Moscow founded by Russian ruling dynasty of Rurikids, the Moscow Kremlin is one of the most renowned symbols of the city and country. It is famous for its structures including Kremlins (Russian citadels), and includes five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers. The name Kremlin itself translates to “fortress inside a city” and is also often used to refer to the government of the Russian Federation. At the heart of the Kremlin is the Cathedral Square which is surrounded by six buildings including three cathedrals. Another distinct structure of the Kremlin is the Ivan the Great Bell Tower that stands on the north east corner of the square. This tower, resembling a burning candle, is said to mark the exact centre of Moscow. business traveller india
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WHAT TO SEE
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GUM
GUM, in full Glavny Universalny Magazin (“Main Department Store in Russian”), formerly Gosudarstvenny Universalny Magazin (“State Department Store”), is the largest department store in Russia. Situated in the Red Square, it is a monument and mall known for its architectural mastery and makes for a must-see stop in Moscow. Along with the finest luxury brands, one can also find reasonably priced restaurants offering Russian food, supermarkets, a pharmacy, souvenir shops and ATMs here. GUM officially opened in 1893 and was the largest shopping mall in Europe at that time.
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Arbat Street is also known for some exotic restaurants which are definitive of the modern dining scene in Moscow.
GORKY PARK
If you want to indulge in an experience as a true Muscovite, head to Gorky Park on one of the evenings. With uncanny similarities to Central Park in New York City, the park combines the beauty of nature with a highly centralised location. The park is divided into four parts: Muzeon (free open-air museum with more than 1,000 Soviet sculptures, Parterre (the main part of the park), Neskuchny Garden (lined with Russian monuments) and Sparrows Hill (known for the views from here). Officially called Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure, the park is named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, the founder of the literary movement of socialist realism and nominated five times for the Nobel Prize for Literature.
ARBAT STREET
Deemed as one of the most famous streets in Moscow, Arbat Street it lined with fashionable boutiques, street art and interesting restaurants. An almost-pedestrian only street, it also prides itself on Russian monuments, museums and theatres making it an extremely cultured experience of the city. Vakhtangov State Academic Theater, a well-known theatre of the city, is situated here. Famed as a space for fantastic creativity, it also houses a museum on the history of the theatre itself. Also housed here on the street is the Reception House of the Government of the Russian Federation which combines various architectural styles that rarely seen in Moscow, such as “art nouveau” and eclecticism. The street is also known for some exotic restaurants which are definitive of the modern dining scene in Moscow. One of them is White Rabbit, a modern Russian-style restaurant located on the 16th floor of the Smolenskiy Shopping Mall, opposite the building of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The restaurant’s menu includes Russian dishes that are blended with modern gastronomic trends. Located in the same mall is another sophisticated restaurant called Zodiac that’s admired for its Asian dining experience. If you’re looking for something more casual, Arbat Street is dotted with a number of Russian and American food chains such as Grabli and Mu Mu along with restaurants that serve Georgian, Azerbaijani, Uzbek, Armenian and Asian cuisines.
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W H E R E T O S TAY
ARARAT PARK HYATT MOSCOW
Centrally located in Moscow, Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow is just a few minutes’ walk from the iconic landmarks such as the Kremlin, Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral. The hotel houses tastefully furnished rooms and expansive suites. Health Club Quantum, a heated indoor pool, a dry sauna, a steam room, a spacious Roman bath, a fitness centre and weight room, and a chapel on the ninth floor are some of its amenities. Conservatory Restaurant & Bar for fine-dining is located on the tenth floor of the hotel. Cafe Ararat, Park Restaurant (all-day dining) and Neglinka Lobby Bar are its other F&B outlets. hyatt.com
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HOTEL BALTSCHUG KEMPINSKI MOSCOW
Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow offers spectacular views of the Kremlin and St. Basil’s Cathedral, and is located across from the Moskva River. Dating back to 1898, the hotel features stylish rooms and suites (including unique Design Suites) with contemporary decor and up-to-the-minute amenities. Beauty Centre Baltschug and a fitness centre along with 12 modern meeting rooms are some of the other features of the property. In terms of F&B, it offers The Baltschug Grill, as well as the refined Café Kranzler and a Lobby Lounge bar. kempinski.com
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HOTEL NATIONAL, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, MOSCOW
Built in 1903 by architect Alexander Ivanov, Hotel National, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Moscow embodies imperial architecture and luxury. It is located steps away from the Red Square, the Kremlin, the Bolshoi Theatre, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Old Arbat Street. Vintage-themed event venues, well-appointed guestrooms and opulent suites styled with exclusive antiques and design details like carved wood ceilings and a heated indoor pool make this hotel a gem that combines old-world hospitality with contemporary Russia. Its F&B boasts of three upscale restaurants, including the acclaimed Beluga by Alexander Rappoport, Alexandrovsky Bar and Dr. Zhivago (Russian cuisine). marriott.com
INTERCONTINENTAL MOSCOW TVERSKAYA
The hotel offers luxury accommodation and high-end conference facilities just 15 minutes’ walk away from the historic Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre that’s known for its the stunning performances. Make an appointment at Mahash The Only SPA for a relaxing treatment. Club Lounge for a coffee with colleagues or evening dinner and drinks at P-Square Gastrobar are recommended. Chekhonte restaurant serves breakfast. Its meeting facilities are expansive with six flexible, fully equipped meeting rooms that are designed to maximise natural daylight. ihg.com
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MOSCOW MARRIOTT ROYAL AURORA HOTEL
The hotel is located close to the Kremlin and renowned Bolshoi Theatre. Well appointed accommodations that offer state-of-the-art technology, premium bedding, minibars, complimentary hotel wifi and on-call butler service are some of the amenities of Moscow Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel. It also houses a fitness centre, heated pool and a private sauna room. Its F&B outlets include - Aurora Restaurant (all-day dining), Polo Club for international fare, Lobby Bar and Vicolo Terrace with a lush garden terrace that offers views of the Moscow cityscape. marriott.com BTI
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TRENDS
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SWEET TREATS We speak to the leading culinary experts to bring out hottest dessert trends for our readers
WORDS NISHA SHROFF
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ndia’s dessert scene is no longer just about the usual cakes and pastries – it’s getting healthier, more savoury and innovative, and totally “on the go”.
TOP TEN DESSERT TRENDS OF 2021
Today, innovation is a constant requirement in the food industry. Chef Nicholas Fernandes, executive pastry chef, The Ritz-Carlton, Pune points out that the biggest change seen in response to the pandemic is that consumers are seeking comfort in the food they eat - and of course wellness and specialised diets. This is resulting in the growth of free-from options, such as gluten-free and dairyfree, and plant-based options in dessert categories. He says, “I’ve observed a distinctive need for a variety of new products to address specific dietary needs. While classics have a well-deserved spot on any menu, emerging trends like hybrid desserts, globally-inspired flavours, botanical elements and individual portions are also gaining traction, especially amongst the Gen Z and the millennials.”
Clockwise from top left: The RitzCarlton, Pune Dessert Lounge; delicious cake at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar; on the go treats; fresh berry tart with date and almond filling at The Ritz-Carlton, Pune
Today, innovation is a constant requirement in the food industry
HEALTHIER DESSERTS
Although people still want to indulge in sugary treats, there is a lot of attention that is being given to overall health. Executive pastry chef Stephenson Simson of The Leela Ambience Gurugram has observed that customers are keen to know the ingredients used and the health AUGUST 2021
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benefits they carry. Alternate ingredients are being opted for. For example, refined sugar has been replaced with jaggery or palm sugar. There is more usage of flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, super seeds, oats and cereals.
LIVE AND GIMMICKY DESSERTS
Speaking of this trend, Chef Vikas Vibhuti, brand ambassador Callebaut India and cluster executive pastry chef, JW Marriott Pune says desserts are a real treat to the eyes, and when it’s given a touch of a gimmick and some live-action is included - it’s a stunning surprise. Then be it a well-made pinata cake to crack or a melting chocolate sphere revealing the actual dessert after melting — customers are bound to love it.
ON THE GO TREATS
Desserts “on the go” or “on the sticks” are trending; of course those with great packaging and those that are easy to eat. These include popsicles in raw fruit flavours, chocolate drenched doughnuts and toasted marshmallows.
REVISITING THE CLASSICS
Come-back of classics is here to stay but with a twist. Chef Santosh Rawat, executive pastry chef at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar says that they are presenting their classic desserts in a contemporary manner. “Chefs have been getting creative with desserts by adding spices, a nutritional value by incorporating nuts and seeds and even
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using enhanced techniques to offer visually appealing desserts.”
SWEET INNOVATION
Local and seasonal ingredients rich in nutrients are now experimented with more says Chef Rishabh Anand – executive pastry chef, The Leela Palace New Delhi. For instance, jamun sorbet with black salt, litchi blended with lavender, yuzu with seasonal mango is some of the examples of innovative desserts which have been well received too. Using natural sweeteners without adding sugar is also a new trend.
MINIS FOR THE WIN
Culinary experts foresee the picking up momentum in the consumption of desserts in small or bite-sized options. Chef Anand explains, “This addresses various factors; it is the right size for people who like to try various flavours and like experimenting as well as pleases the guests who are health conscious or on a low sugar diet - this acts as just the right portion to satiate cravings.”
Left and right: Innovative desserts at The Leela Palace New Delhi and The Leela Ambience Gurugram, and decadent dessert at Bastian, Mumbai
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Culinary experts foresee the picking up momentum in the consumption of desserts in small or bite-sized options
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USE OF “CONTRASTING FLAVOURS”
Another very interesting trend Chef Vibhuti points out is the use of contrasting flavours and some out of the ordinary combinations which are not everyone’s sweet morsel, however it’s an addiction for the ones who try it. Like pairing the bitter chocolate with gorgonzola to make a mousse or pave, adding crisp bacon to the filling of a praline paired with an aged Burgundy wine.
FRUIT-FORWARD DESSERTS
KA Hospitality’s Nair has observed that fresh fruits based/infused desserts are a refreshing way to both indulge and enhance the dessert with flavours and nutritional benefits.
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MORE SAVOURY ITEMS
Savoury ingredients are trending globally especially in the fine dining arena. Nelson Nair, head of operations, KA Hospitality for Yauatcha comments, “The key to using savoury ingredients in desserts while making them taste delightful has to be balanced well.” Agreeing to this Dhiraj Jankar, bakery chef at Bastian, Mumbai says, “There is a growing acceptance of more savoury elements into desserts like using cheese, herbs, and others.”
PLANT-BASED FOODS
Industry experts from leading brands like The Leela, Marriott International, Conrad and KA Hospitality have witnessed an increase in demand for vegan and plant-based foods. Chef Simson of The Leela Ambience Gurugram explains, “There is a strong following for plant-based recipes since the flavour is superior and you tend to simplify the recipe with no animal products.” Popular Conrad Bengaluru hotel has also witnessed this trend among its customers, they are opting for more vegan options or they look forward to having desserts with no gluten, no eggs or lactose - without diluting the taste and visionary appeal of it. AUGUST 2021
Clockwise from left: Dessert at Conrad Bengaluru; dessert at Yauatcha and black forest cake at The RitzCarlton, Pune
THE ELEMENT OF NUTRITION Consumers now have more access than ever to eat what they want, when and where they want it. Chef Nicholas Fernandes, executive pastry chef, The Ritz-Carlton, Pune says proper nutrition is complex, and recommendations depend on the individual requirement. The six major elements form the basis of all nutritional requirements, carbohydrates, protein, fats, vitamins, minerals and water. “Today we cater to all such requirements through gluten-free desserts, vegan, sugar-free and keto. While desserts aren’t traditionally associated with health benefits, (barring recent research on dark chocolate when consumed in moderation), I expect to see avocado ice cream, keto or paleo cakes, and all the “free” dessert options – gluten, lactose, sugar, dairy line up dessert bars,” he says.
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Industry experts have witnessed an increase in demand for vegan and plantbased foods
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CHALLENGES IN DELIVERING DESSERTS
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With restaurants being operational for a limited duration during the day, the focus has moved on to home deliveries. This has undoubtedly raised challenges in delivering desserts. Chefs are trying their best to strike a balance between the actual visual presentation and the way they are handled during transit. According to Chef Dane Fernandes, executive chef, The St. Regis Mumbai, “The biggest challenge is the temperature as most of the desserts are relished cold; delivery tends to break down the texture and appeal of the dessert as the temperature is not regulated during deliveries, for which an additional care measure is added on using styrofoam boxes with dry ice to keep it cold and intact.” Chef Rawat says that the challenges faced by chefs are catering to the requests of guests for contemporary desserts such as mousse-based ones. “These entremets are difficult to serve via home delivery and may also impact its visual appeal, a key factor amongst the younger audience. Another major challenge is delivering the desserts and ensuring the desired temperature is maintained during the delivery.” Elaborating on this, Chef Jankar of Bastian says, “We need to make a few compromises with the presentation and provide a lot of the elements packaged in the side, in deconstructed form. Here what plays an important role is giving the correct instructions to the guest on how to store and how to plate the desserts before consumption.”
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ONLY-DESSERT BARS – WHERE DO THEY STAND?
Chefs are trying to strike a balance between visual presentation and the way the desserts are handled during transit
Left to right: Dessert offering at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar; flourless chocolate cake at The St. Regis Mumbai and black forest at Ether Atelier
While the only-dessert bar concept is gaining popularity in the west, it is still at a very nascent stage back home. Head chef, Prateek Bakhtiani of Ether Atelier says, “The dessert bars are looming at the horizon, waiting for the Indian pastry scene to mature into a mentality of specialisation. Chefs need to find a clean niche, let that be chocolate, or viennoiserie or macarons and focus on creating a compelling brand around a forte.” The reason why few pseudo-dessert bars that have been successful including Le 15, Bombay Sweet Shop, Mag St. Bakery, most traditional Halwaii brands are that they have refined and redefined a pastry specialisation and that has given them enough ammunition to have a physical ‘dessert bar’, he adds.
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Desserts that are presentable and have unique flavours tend to cater to a larger audience
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Left and right: Sweet treats at The Leela Palace New Delhi and a pretty dessert at The Leela Ambience Gurugram
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INDIAN VS INTERNATIONAL
Indian consumers are adventurous when it comes to trying cuisines of different cultures and countries. Chef Anand of The Leela Palace New Delhi says, “Nothing can replace the value of traditional Indian desserts, but the demand for foreign delicacies, including desserts has been on a rise. People know what the black forest cake tastes like, now they want to know what the Italian latter dolce Frito or the French Choux pastry tastes like.” Guests are also keenly looking for fusion options when it comes to Indian desserts. Chef Simson of The Leela Ambience Gurugram says that desserts that are presentable and have unique flavours tend to cater to a larger set of audience. “While International desserts have varieties of treats, they also have different textures and flavours, which is quite different from the regular Indian desserts. Younger generations have gravitated towards international sweets, mostly because of these reasons.” BTI AUGUST 2021
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SOUTH AFRICA AUGUST 2021
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H AN
D E S T I N AT I O N S
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ndia was the eighth largest international market for South African tourism prior to the pandemic; and continues to remain a promising one even now. From sun-soaked coasts to breathtaking wildlife and from vibrant culture to adrenaline thumping adventures, the Rainbow Nation gives us all the right reasons on why it belongs on top of our travel bucket list. Currently, the destination is open to all international tourists. Travellers intending to visit South Africa are required to produce a negative RT-PCR test, not older than 72 hours from the time of departure from the country of origin. So, if South Africa is where your next holiday is, and ‘something local and offbeat’ is your travel motto, here are a few recommendations you can consider.
SOJOURN Exploring the country’s news regions, wines and its sustainable travel model
WORDS S ANCHITA NAMBIAR
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Clockwise from left: Drakensberg; Limpopo and ostriches in Oudtshoorn
EXPLORING NEW REGIONS
Go beyond Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban to traverse the “new regions” of South Africa that include the relatively unexplored Port Elizabeth, West Coast and Drakensberg and indulge in experiences of a lifetime.
ADVENTURE-FILLED DRAKENSBERG
KwaZulu-Natal is home to the Drakensberg mountains (the Zulus call them the “Barrier of Spears”) in the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, a natural and cultural World Heritage site. The mountains hold cultural significance as they contain works of San rock art that date back to the late Stone Age. Tourists can partake in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, hot air ballooning, helicopter rides and horseback riding into the mountains. AUGUST 2021
The new regions include the relatively unexplored Port Elizabeth, West Coast and Drakensberg
OSTRICHES IN OUDTSHOORN
Head to Oudtshoorn, popularly known as the ostrich capital of the world. The town boasts many interesting attractions like Cango Caves and Cango Wildlife Ranch, which offers crocodile-cage dives. It is also one of the few places in the world where you can enjoy a meerkat safari.
WILDLIFE GALORE IN LIMPOPO
Limpopo is undoubtedly one of the most abundant provinces in South Africa where you will find vast open spaces with stunning wildlife and majestic mountainous landscapes. The region is blessed with a number of game and nature reserves, housing one of the country’s business traveller india
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highest population of rhinos and elegant antelope species. The largest national park in Africa, Kruger National Park is situated here.
UNWIND IN EAST LONDON
For the seasoned travellers who are looking for places untouched by tourist commercialisation, the East London is where they should be. The place adorns a modern setting with a laid-back charm. The place is ideal for leisurely vacations and adventure experiences amidst natural settings. East London is also one of the few places where you can see the white lion at the Inkwenkwezi National Park.
A SLICE OF HISTORY AT PORT ELIZABETH
Port Elizabeth has the Nelson Mandela Bay where one can find Route 67 – a AUGUST 2021
collection of 67 art pieces celebrating the years Nelson Mandela dedicated to public life. The region also houses South Africa’s third largest national reserve – Addo National Park where you can watch hundreds of African elephants roam around freely. The national park features a thriving marine life and rich flora and offers the only Big 7 safari options in the world.
FUN AT COFFEE BAY
The coastal town of Coffee Bay is nestled within the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape Province. It is known for its serene beaches and rich, traditional Xhosa lifestyle. Coffee Bay is also popular for the geographical marvel – Hole in the Wall. It is an offshore stack of rock through which the elements have eroded a hole. This hole amplifies the sound of the waves onto the rock, inspiring the local Xhosa people to name it esiKhaleni which means “place of sound”. business traveller india
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Left and right: East London and Coffee Bay
Coffee Bay is known for its serene beaches and rich, traditional Xhosa lifestyle
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WATER SPORTS AT SODWANA BAY
Located on the East Coast of South Africa, Sodwana Bay is a must visit for marine life enthusiasts. Sodwana’s spectacular coral reefs in a national marine protected area are among the southernmost in the world, and are a scuba diving and snorkelling haven.
PICTURESQUE WEST COAST West Coast is a 90-minute drive from Cape Town, and is a favourite among locals for a weekend getaway. Visitors can hike, explore bike trails through fynbos (small belts of natural shrub land), or visit the icy waters of Langebaan Lagoon for kayaking and sailing. West Coast National Park is great for spring wildflowers (between August and September when the blooms are at their peak). Southern right whales can be spotted between August and November.
DRIVE ALONG THE PANORAMA ROUTE
Drive along the surreal Panorama route, replete with breathtaking scenery. The highlight of the route is the Blyde River Canyon, one of the longest chasms in the world, consisting of spectacular geological shapes and scenic views of the country. AUGUST 2021
Clockwise from top: Three Rondavels, Blyde River Canyon; Sodwana Bay and West Coast
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Highlight of Panorama Route is the Blyde River Canyon, one of the longest chasms in the world
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LET’S TALK WINE The discussion on South Africa’s tourism is incomplete without the mention of its wine industry. One of the most exciting wine regions across the globe, South Africa create wines of exceptional quality by infusing old winemaking methods combined with new ones. Experience and learn about their wine culture by visiting farms such Steenberg Vineyards, Mullineux and Leeu, Beau Constantia, Vergelegen, Glen Carlou, Delaire Graff, Babylonstoren, De Grendel, Rupert and Rothschild Vignerons, Morgenster, Creation Wines, Spier, and Cape Point Vineyards. Sip, savour and shop for wines at shops and wine bars around Cape Town such as the Publik Wine Bar, Wine Concepts, Openwine and Caroline’s Fine Wine Cellar.
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A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH
Pandemic has made us rethink the way we travel. Travellers are now prioritising sustainability, thereby paving way for an ecoconscious tourism revival. Expressing views on this, Neliswa Nkani, hub head – MEISEA, South African Tourism says, “We anticipate that the immersive travel trend will continue in a post-Covid world, with a greater focus on sustainability. This means that travellers will be more conscious of where they spend their money, what kind of accommodation they choose, where they dine, and how they travel locally. Responsible travellers will ensure that they are injecting money directly into the local economy. Besides creating a more authentic travel experience, they can also help someone create a better life for themselves. Travellers can also choose to hire local guides or workers from nearby villages.” South Africa as a renowned global tourist destination is ensuring that environmentfriendly and sustainable practices are being implemented across all facets of travel and tourism. It is doing so by encouraging its partners down the supply chain to conduct paperless business and digitise their processes AUGUST 2021
and by recommending travellers to opt for a slower pace and live like locals. Elaborate efforts are being taken to maintain and protect the country’s cultural and natural heritage. There are eight world heritage sites in South Africa that are funded by the government. The South African tourism board also refrains from promoting wildlife interactions. Another key objective of the destination is to support and grow the local economy. The tourism board is promoting and backing SMMEs, which play a major role in the travel ecosystem. They have also expanded their tourist offerings geographically to ensure that there is no over tourism, while making sure that rural local communities are positively impacted by tourism. “At South African tourism, we are enhancing efforts to make our itineraries, properties and transport facilities more sustainable. We also intend to showcase our sustainable product offerings and ecotourism experiences, like cycling tours, nature safaris, conservation projects and rural experiences, to the Indian traveller,” added Neliswa Nkani. business traveller india
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EVENTS TO CHECK OUT THE SARDINE RUN
Head to KwaZulu Natal East Coast to witness the annual migration of millions of sardines. It is indeed a sight to behold as hundreds of thousands of dolphins, sharks, whales and seabirds follow the impressive body of sardines as they move along the coast. In addition, travellers can also enjoy a programme of entertainment, including cultural activities and music shows. (Can be viewed through August)
THE NAMAQUALAND FLOWER ROUTE
The Namaqualand Flower Route lies approximately five hours north of Cape Town. The evidence of flowers can be seen in Cape Town, and Postberg, a small section of the West Coast National Park close to Langebaan, gets the juices flowing. However, the real flower show belongs to a series of drives that centre on the towns of Garies, Springbok, Kamieskroon and Port Nolloth, way up the N7. (Best experienced in August and September)
KLEIN KAROO KLASSIQUE
Travellers are prioritising sustainability, paving way for eco-conscious tourism revival
This is highly recommended for lovers of music, great food, fine wine and quality art. Take a trip to Oudtshoorn in the Klein Karoo in August for the Klein Karoo Klassique festival of classical music complemented by Klein Karoo cuisine, regional wines and art. (August 2021)
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TRAVEL GUIDE ☛At present, India does not have direct flight
connections to South Africa. Passengers can travel to the destination via Qatar Airways or Ethiopian Airlines with stopovers at Doha and Addis Ababa respectively. ☛South African visa application forms can be downloaded from visa.vfsglobal.com. Travellers are required to submit the completed visa application form in-person at the nearest VFS visa application centre listed on the website. ☛There is no visa fee for Indian nationals. However, the VFS logistics fee to process visas from Mumbai and Delhi is `2,040, and `2,301 to process visas from Gurugram, Jaipur, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Pune, Bengaluru, and Goa. ☛Efforts are also being taken to introduce e-visas for the Indian market as soon as possible. →
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W H E R E T O S TAY Our picks for a business or leisure stay in South Africa
TAJ CAPE TOWN
Situated in the centre of the old city, Taj Cape Town is close to several popular tourist attractions and an array of shops, galleries and restaurant. Spread across two heritage buildings, all 176 rooms open to sweeping views of the city or the iconic Table Mountain. Head to Bombay Brasserie to enjoy Indian cuisine blended with the Cape Town flair. Unwind at The Lobby Lounge and Bar with a cup of coffee, tea, cake or an evening aperitif. The hotel is well-equipped to host business and social gatherings. tajhotels.com
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THE SILO HOTEL
This premium Cape Town address towers over the V&A Waterfront. The hotel is a “celebration of art, style, architecture and design”. There are 28 rooms, including a lavish one-bedroom penthouse. Savour an expansive breakfast or a Sunday Brunch at The Granary Café, enjoy cocktails and fine wines at The Willaston Bar or head to The Silo Rooftop for sundowners. theroyalportfolio.com
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ONE&ONLY CAPE TOWN
This waterfront retreat is in the heart of South Africa’s bustling capital city. The hotel’s rooms and suites are said to be the largest in the city. Choose from their exquisite dining venues that include Nobu, Vista Bar & Lounge and Isola. Spend some leisurely time by the pool or de-stress with a spa therapy. oneandonlyresorts.com
HILTON SANDTON
The hotel is within two kilometers of Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City Mall, and Sandton Gautrain Station. The rooms adorn elegant settings with plush amenities. The F&B venues include Faces Lounge & Bar, perfect for business meets over coffee; Lotus Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar; Tradewinds Restaurant serving international cuisine and Pool Gazebo bar for cocktails. Recreational amenities include a family friendly outdoor pool, floodlit tennis courts and fitness centre. hilton.com
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FOUR SEASONS HOTEL THE WESTCLIFF, JOHANNESBURG
High up on the rocky Witwatersrand is where the picturesque property lies. Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg gives the vibe of a “chic hillside village”. The accommodations feature a blend of contemporary and local elements; and offer spectacular views. Take a ride up the glass elevator for an exquisite dining comprising seasonally inspired dishes at Flames. Indulge in a nature-inspired treatment at the hotel’s spa. fourseasons.com BTI
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OPINION
Hospitality - the come back When will the hotel industry return to normal? An expert gives his insight
MADAN PRASAD BEZBARUAH S E C R E TA R Y G E N E R A L , H O T E L A S S O C I AT I O N O F I N D I A
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ospitality industry is one of the first and worst hit sectors by the catastrophic pandemic. The challenges of the global health crisis have dealt a crippling blow to the travel and tourism industry leading to the decimation of a substantial part of the hospitality business. Since August 2020, the hospitality sector has been struggling to find its ground for recovery and started to show signs of improvement though in a staggered manner. However, much to the woes of the industry, it took another hit in February 2021 when the second wave hit the country, bringing the sector to its knees. Hotels are still reeling under the devastation of the second wave with little to no hope of a better future on the back of predictions of a third wave. In the meantime, the decrease in number of cases and improvement of economic activities has spurred optimism for the beleaguered hospitality industry which is limping back to normalcy on the back of domestic leisure and business travel during the last few weeks. Many states still continue to enforce different restrictions on travel activities which has made the recovery of the sector a long-drawn process. As hotel and tourism operations strive for survival, industry has greatly welcomed the support offered by the government. States like Maharashtra and Karnataka have accorded industry status to the hotel sector. This will enable better rates for electricity and property tax. Punjab, Telangana, Rajasthan and some
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states have also come out with some occupancies. Therefore, hotels will have to relief measures. continuously look for newer ways to enhance The announcements like ECLGS scheme, their services and minimise risks throughout liquidity support by RBI and relief measures the travel journey of their guests. by the finance ministry, are some of the major As lockdowns are removed after the ebbing steps that have bought of the second wave, people a breather and hope for are now looking at leisure The hospitality sector the sector. While these travel for unwinding and measures hold great overcoming the boredom fervently hopes that the significance, many SMEs of long indoor stays. There traveller’s confidence consider the relief by the is a lot of movement seen will bounce back government as only a drop towards local and drivable with the rolling out of in the ocean. Hospitality destinations. Although and tourism associations leisure travel has led to high vaccinations have also reached out bookings in hotels, business to the central and state travel is yet to see the light governments highlighting of the day due to prevailing the pain-points of the industry and the work from home norms and necessary policies that may help the precautions in the context sector survive and revive over of fear of a third wave. Many the coming years. hotels are betting on domestic travel and the wedding season for ROAD TO RECOVERY survival, but it may not be sufficient Liquidity support from in the long term. the government will lay the The hospitality sector fervently hopes foundation for the survival that the traveller’s confidence will bounce of the sector. Furthermore, the quotient back with the rolling out of vaccinations. It of adaptability is crucial as the sector is is evident from the experience gained over witnessing some dynamic shifts in traveller the last year that the sector is likely to see behaviours and preferences. “Consumer noticeable changes by the 2022–2024 only. confidence” will be the focus for the industry From all accounts it is realistic to assume that in the coming days. Innovation in payment the hospitality sector will take another methods, seamless check-in and check-out couple of years to have a sense of complete facilities and overall hygiene of properties recovery and growth or to get back to preare going to be the underlying aspects for 2019 levels. BTI business traveller india
TIME STOPPER
SEAMASTER AQUA TERRA BY OMEGA
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Swiss watchmaker Omega has crafted two unique timepieces in tribute to the grand sporting event - the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. Omega is the official Timekeeper of the Olympic Games since 1932, and serving in this role for the 29th time this time. Crafted in full 18K yellow gold, and offered in 38mm or 41mm sizes, the new Seamaster Aqua Terra watches are distinctive in their radiant yellow gold cases, embodying the premium standard in watch and jewellery making, and its mesmerising balance between usefulness and purity. omegawatches.com business traveller india
AUGUST 2021
OPINION
The need of the hour - bespoke trips Customised vacations have become more important than ever, says the co-founder of a bespoke travel agency
JUHI CHHEDA C O - F O U N D E R , C U S T O M H O L I D AY S
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ravel, they say is no longer a luxury but a necessity. The advancement of transport technology along with the internet have made it possible to not just access a destination but also the information about it. But that is not enough. A flight ticket, hotel reservation and a city tour does not make the perfect holiday for today’s consumer. Each generation consumes differently and today’s travellers want more. Be it luxury or affordable travel, the contemporary consumer aspires for a holiday that not just looks great on their social media feed but also helps them grow and develop new facets of self. They want bespoke travel experiences designed keeping them and their interests in mind. They yearn to discover not just the destination but themselves through travel.
LUXURY AND BESPOKE TRAVEL
Luxury and bespoke are words thrown around casually by many today. But what is luxury and bespoke travel? Does it mean expensive travel? Well the answer is much the same for travel vis a vis a luxury brand. Luxury and bespoke does not only mean high quality and price. Staying in a 5-star hotel or flying business class is not difficult, anyone can do it. Today, luxury means more. AUGUST 2021
It means exclusiveness, uniqueness; not At CustomHolidays we marry our because it’s offered to a few but rather destination knowledge and research with because it’s designed your travel dreams. The for a few. Luxury and result is a holiday that bespoke travel actually not only offers you the A flight ticket, requires a lot of research, best of everything you hotel reservation offering new routes and asked for but surpasses and a city tour unpredictable ways to your expectations. does not make the experience a destination. Imagine a private luxury It’s being unique not for camp setup for just you perfect holiday for the sake of being unique in the middle of the today’s consumer but because it actually Moroccan desert or adds value to the journey. highlands of Scotland or mountains of Peru! SOME EXAMPLES OF BESPOKE AND Being able to experience LUXURY EXPERIENCES the landscape so Many go to Switzerland and intimately and in complete buy a Swiss watch for their privacy is bespoke luxury! loved ones, but a bespoke The possibilities are travel experience is to exciting and endless! And actually make that watch we would be lying if we said we under the guidance of a don’t enjoy planning these bespoke master horologist; it makes trips as much as you enjoy experiencing the gift and the experience them. Today’s consumer wants these that much more special! experiences, bragging rights to say I stayed Winter and ski trips are very popular at an invite only hotel or partied at a secret lately. But how about a place where you can underground club or dined at an alfresco not just ski but enjoy après ski activities like table set in the middle of the forest and ice-karting, (it’s go-karting but on a frozen served freshly foraged ingredients by a track!), mushing, night sledging etc or use Michelin star chef! Today, everyone wants ski lift for a private romantic dinner? to #TravelBetter! BTI business traveller india
ShowStopper
Va l k y r i e a M r P r o by a s to n M a r t i n
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Featuring unrivalled performance and potential, Valkyrie AMR Pro by Aston Martin is designed on a modified version of the Valkyrie chassis. The sports car has an advanced aerodynamic system that adds length and produces enormous amounts of downforce. With a rev limit of 11,000 rpm, its combustion engine powerhouse is on track to produce 1000 bhp. More information about the Valkyrie AMR Pro's specifications and efficiency will be announced later this year. astonmartin.com business traveller india
August 2021
IndIa
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Tried, Tested, Tasted.
august 2021
tried and tested
Bti showcase
Intercontinental Marine Drive
Divine inspiration by Sachin Chauhan
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TRIED & TESTED MUMBAI HOTEL
Intercontinental Marine Drive BEST FOR Views of the Arabian Sea DON’T MISS Italian fare at L&S PRICE Upwards of ₹7,000 CONTACT Intercontinental Marine Drive, 135, Marine Drive, Mumbai - 400020, Maharashtra, India ihg.com
B A C K G R O U N D IHG Hotels & Resorts owns brands such as Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Crowne Plaza and Intercontinental in India. Intercontinental Marine Drive is the first Intercontinentalbranded hotel in India that opened in 2002. W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? The hotel is all about understated luxury. The driveway leads to the entrance of the hotel where the staff promptly assists you with checkin. Temperature checks and sanitisation stations later, you’re in the grand lobby area. It was raining when I checked in and I was excited to spend the next day exploring this iconic Mumbai hotel. There is Atellier, its banquet hall that can accommodate upto 100 people on the ground level. Two elevators take you to the accommodation, restaurants and other spaces. W H E R E I S I T ? Right on Marine Drive,
overlooking the Arabian Sea and the Marine Drive promenade. If you’ve ever been to Mumbai, you must have definitely crossed this hotel whilst crossing South Mumbai.
R O O M S The hotel has a total of 59 rooms and suites, with a majority of them facing the panoramic sea views. IHG Clean Promise is the hotel group’s signature initiative that ensures high levels of cleanliness and sanitation during your stay. The room categories are - Standard rooms and suites. I stayed in this lovely business traveller india
I stayed in this lovely Bay-view suite that overlooked a dramatic view of the Queen’s Necklace Bay-view suite that overlooked a dramatic view of the Queen’s Necklace, the Arabian Sea, a part of the main road and a few buildings — making it the quintessential Mumbai view in my opinion. The best part was that the view spanned the area of the living room and bedroom which have been laid out in a very distinctive L-shaped fashion, giving the feel of a more open space. The bathroom, laid with black marble, a separate bathtub and shower area with dual sinks and a sliding door felt quite luxurious. Agraria San Francisco’s bath amenities were provided. There are minimal design details that exude the spirit of Mumbai and the bed’s headboard is quite high adding another touch of luxe to the suite. The blueupholstered couch and living space is by the window - a perfect spot for morning coffee or breakfast.
F O O D A N D D R I N K I was delighted by the spectrum of F&B at this hotel. Unfortunately its Indian outlet Kebab Korner was shut during my visit however room service did offer the restaurant’s dishes in inroom dining. After checkin, my lunch was at L&S (Long & Short) where I enjoyed some pasta (penne) in tomato and garlic paprika sauce. The flavours were quite authentic and the tang of the sauce was just right. I also
had iced tea with lunch. In the evening, I headed to its rooftop lounge - Dome known for its exceptional vistas of the sea alongside its white-themed ambience and French windows. I had a nice French Malbec and soaked in the views in front of me. For dinner and breakfast, I chose room service. The former was a decadent spread of Indian dishes from kakori kebabs, truffle cheese kulcha, black daal and butter chicken — an absolute treat for the soul and senses. Next morning, for breakfast I indulged in avocado on toast along with some orange juice and cheese.
M E E T I N G S Along with the aforementioned Atellier, the hotel also houses Onyx, a newly furnished banquet space that can accommodate upto 100 people and is equipped with state-of-theart facilities. L E I S U R E The hotel only offers in-room spa facilities which were sadly closed during my visit. A choice of aromatherapy is offered to every guest on arrival. In the next level after Dome is its swimming pool which was also not operational due to Covid norms. V E R D I C T Ideal for a break from the
mundane or a switch in the work-fromhome ambience to a very contemporary and sophisticated one. Akanksha Maker AUGUST 2021
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BTI showcase
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Divine inspiration by Sachin Chauhan Chauhan took a trip to Madurai city in Tamil Nadu just to visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple. He says, "The work on every little detail of this temple left me awestruck. The moment I saw the temple, I wanted to capture its details in the best possible way. I was looking for the best time to capture this man-made wonder, and then I was able to take this picture. The soft light of evening and the little bird flying towards the temple made it look like the picture I had in mind. My travel partner Sony a7iii with 28-70 lens accompanied me."
August 2021
business traveller india
