September 2022

Discover the stunning setting for a romantic wedding at the luxurious and iconic Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Allow our dedicated wedding planners to turn dreams into memories. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers can provide the special attention to detail that will transform dreams into a reality. Offering a range of exceptional venues giving guests the opportunity to create a wedding event suited to their individual needs. Opt for the sophisticated and elegant surroundings of the ballroom to create an idyllic ambiance Share those first moments as husband and wife in elegant and luxurious surroundings with our elite team of professional and friendly staff on hand to ensure that every detail is managed seamlessly and beautifully coordinated.

THE EMIRATI HOSPITALITY

Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s MICE and destination wedding luxury hotels (pg 26)

Welcome to the September 2022 issue of Business Traveller India. is year seems to be moving faster than before; almost as if it wants to make up for the lost time. e world has learned to be more tolerating and accepting of situations and losses; with out-of-the-box solutions, innovations and constructive ways to work around looming obstacles.

e celebration season is upon us - Abu Dhabi and Dubai have risen like the phoenix and are back to business and weddings as usual. We have a story on Emirati hospitality, where we have curated some of the most opulent MICE and destination wedding hotels and their o erings, in both Emirates.

Munich the Bavarian capital, and our spotlighted cover story for this month is renowned the world over for its extravagant retail options, arts, culture and rich heritage. is story highlights a few of the places in the city that we would recommend visiting on your next trip there.

e Indian hospitality and automobile industries’ contributions towards conservation of greenery and sustainable practices, make the environment a better place. We stand in solidarity to show appreciation and support for their continuing e orts.

A day at the Chandon India winery in Nashik, Athen’s urban and luxurious seaside resorts, luxury hotel reviews and much more that we hope you enjoy reading as much as we enjoyed compiling it.

Wishing you safe travels and good health.

IN THIS ISSUE

BREATHE EASY Sustainability and conservation in Bengaluru’s luxury hotels (pg 46)

THE MOST LUXURIOUS EVS IN INDIA e return of electrical cars (pg 54)

BAVARIAN INDULGENCE

Munich’s retail, arts and culture (pg 60)

Khursheed Mistry Consulting Editor

Your Wedding Celebration Re-Imagined

Whether you are seeking something elegant or something a little more extravagant, our awe-inspiring venues, intuitive service and culinary expertise, will take your wedding celebration to new heights at the world’s tallest five star hotel. Our experienced wedding planners will look after every detail – from the tailored Halal menus to authentic entertainment.

Find out more about the hotel’s distinctive venues and bespoke wedding packages, contact the certified wedding planners at +971 4 414 2000 or email jwmarquis.dubai@marriott.com

JW Marriott® Marquis® Hotel Dubai jwmarriott.com/DXBJW

Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE

DEVIKA KHANNA

Devika Khanna is the Director of Vivaldis Animal Health Care which is a leading company in the companion animal segment. She looks after the businessto-consumer division of the organisation and comes with a robust experience in digital marketing, business strategy and solutions. Devika launched Bark Out Loud, a range of direct-to-customer products, co-branded with the Virat Kohli Foundation. She shares her insights on travelling with a pet dog in our September 2022 issue.

See pg 72

PRATITI RAJPAL

Pratiti is the Director of Operations at Hyatt Regency Dehradun. She brings along with her years of inspiring experience across Marriott and Hyatt hotels in India, with a decade of the journey being with Hyatt. In this issue she shares her insights on how hospitality has changed post the pandemic.

See pg 76

A renowned name in the hospitality industry, Kunal Chauhan has been appointed as the General Manager at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. With 19 years of diverse experience under his belt, his strengths lie in hotel operations, marketing, food and amp; beverage, team management and financial management. In this issue, he shares his insights on the changing habits of business travellers and how hotels are adapting to them. See pg 74

Applied Arts and specialised in photography. In this month’s showcase we have a surreal photo of the night sky taken by him in Wada, Maharashtra. See pg 82

Publisher & CEO Ravi Lalwani

Managing Director Julian Gregory Editorial Director Tom Otley Executive Director Meena Lalwani

EDITORIAL

Consulting Editor Khursheed Mistry Assistant Editor Anithya Balachandran Production & Design Head Amit Chavan

Contributors Pratiti Rajpal; Devika Khanna; Paul J Devries; Kunal Chauhan and Gayatri Thakkar

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tel +91 9004015411 Email info@panaceapublishing.co.in Print subscription 6 Issues, ₹ 1,450; 12 Issues, ₹ 2,750

Business Traveller India is published 11 times a year at our address (right). Business Traveller India is the first of its kind to be published in India. The magazine is entirely independent of all commercial interests within the travel industry. All rights reserved in respect of all content, articles, illustrations and photography published in Business Traveller India anywhere in the world. Reproductions or imitations are expressly forbidden without the permission of the publishers. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be accepted for publication and Business Traveller India accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to them. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers, who cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.

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RNI NO.: MAHENG 2016/71766. Printed & Published by Ravi Lalwani on behalf of Panacea Publishing Pvt. Ltd. Printed at SAP Print Solutions Pvt Ltd, 28, Lakshmi Industrial Estate, S. N. Path, Lower Parel (W), Mumbai – 400 013 Maharashtra and Published at 3 Hampton Court, 123, Wodehouse Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400 005

AIR MILES

How did you begin your journey in the world of Virtual Gaming?

I love travelling and trying new experiences. I was in Bangkok in early 2019 and experienced zero latency there. I was blown away by the experience and amazed by how it transported me to a different world. I had never tried anything like this before. I then thought that India definitely is the right market and needs experiences like this for people to enjoy on weekends and a change from the usual monotonous office dinners and off-sites. It is something revolutionary and VR is the future, so why not? That’s how the idea of getting this to India cropped up and here we are – with the mind-blowing revolutionary experience. On a lighter note, the avid gamer my husband is added to my confidence that the concept is required and will have a fantastic market in India, and which better city to start from than Mumbai!

What do you think the future of V.R is going to be like in India?

In spite of the potential that VR has, the pace of growth for VR had been lacklustre since its invention in the 1960s. According to reports, it was predicted to be mainstream by 1994 but it never really took off then. However, the growth in VR gaming in 2019 was spectacular at 25 per cent and going ahead, it is expected to grow to 30 per cent from 2020 to 2027. The Asia-Pacific region dominates the global VR gaming market with a 40 per cent share of global revenue and is expected to do so for the next five to seven years. Within this

region, South Korea and India are expected to witness a remarkable demand for VR games driven further by the higher disposable income of these countries and technological advancements in the gaming and entertainment industries. After overcoming the drawbacks of traditional VR which restricted the VR experience to be stationary, isolating and expensive, the onset of the “Free Roam VR” experience is driving the launch of VR arcades. Furthermore, the active and immersive experience that these arcades provide, forces the gamers to keep coming back.

What’s next for Zero Latency?

Zero Latency has come a long way since its launch in August 2019 in Mumbai. It has revolutionised the concept of gaming in the city and made VR gaming synonymous with Zero Latency. There is already a second location at Hyderabad too (since December 2021) that we are managing and that has also witnessed a great response. So now of course, with the pandemic behind us, we want to take Zero Latency across the country and God willing by early next year you should see a few more across the country!

What are a few things that we would always find in your carryon luggage?

Few very essential things (for me) which will always find a place in my carry-on luggage are a book, my airpods, my small medicine kit with the basic pills, my iPad and my vanity!

What’s your go-to travel destination and why?

It has to be Goa! It's relaxing, it's chilled. There are innumerable flights at all times from Mumbai and it never disappoints you! Whether it’s a family vacation or party time with friends, it’s the easiest go-to choice for me

What advice would you like to impart to fellow entrepreneurs?

My advice to fellow entrepreneurs would be- think out of the box and be persistent in what you choose. There are a plethora of career options which are witnessing a robust growth such as gamers, Youtubers, streamers or digital content creators. Gaming which was completely male-dominated now has females matching up the numbers!

Hence, we need to break that glass ceiling and be resilient and pursue unconventional career choices because India needs that! Yes, entering an industry comes with high stakes, but also high rewards! So, take the leap and let's all strive to give India a mark up on the world map!

Business Traveller India talks to Parinitaa Rajgarhiaa, founder of Zero Latency, Mumbai about her journey into the V.R gaming industry, her insights on the expansion of this sector and her advice for budding entrepreneurs.

THE ST. REGIS NEW YORK

THE ST. REGIS NEW YORK on Fi h Avenue has been lauded as one of Manhattan’s most luxurious hotels. e hotel embodies an extravagant spirit with a resplendent grand roo op ballroom that o ers stunning views of the cityscape. e hotel features designer suites, like e Dior suite, which is meticulously designed to t the French aesthetic. e Milano suite is embellished with opulent Italian furnishings, while the Bentley Suite o ers a more contemporary design inspired by Bentley’s motorcars. Experience royalty with lavish amenities, including the classic St. Regis Butler Service. Astor Court, the hotel’s ne-dining lounge prepares the choicest seasonal dishes with extremely fresh, locallysourced ingredients. An iconic location on Fi h Avenue, the hotel's King Cole Bar is known for its specialty cocktails and canapés. e St. Regis New York is indeed a haven of imperial luxury. marriott.com

OF TH E MONT H

HOTEL

MODERN ELEGANCE AWAITS AT THE WESTIN GRAND MUNICH

At

The Westin Grand Munich, an ideal setting is provided for every travel experience. From restorative relaxation, dynamic gatherings to revitalising retreats. The hotel is nestled in Munich's Bogenhausen district, around the corner from the English Garden and minutes away from the city centre by subway. One can unwind in the hotel's spectacular indoor pool, steam bath or in one of three different saunas. Treat yourself to an indulgent experience at the 1,500-squaremeter ISAR Spa.

Along with numerous worldrenowned sights and attractions. The bavarian capital enchants visitors with its traditional charm combined with modern style. The location of The Westin Grand Munich is ideal for discovering

A luxury property that can fulfill all your event based needs

the Bavarian metropolis as it is just a few minutes from the city center, so there's absolutely nothing to keep guests from going on an exploratory tour. The English Garden right around the corner of our hotels is bigger than New York’s Central Park.

The Westin Grand Munich's meeting spaces are anchored by the 850-squaremeter ballroom, an elegant setting for any event. Regardless of what requirements you have for your conference in Munich, their large selection of conference rooms can offer you the right space for your meeting or dinner. From small meeting rooms with fixed seating to spaces that can be divided or combined, all the way to a magnificent ballroom, the hotel features a range of individually customisable options. At the Westin Grand Munich, everything is designed to support the guests' well-being and enhance productivity. From healthy dining options to enriching amenities, The Westin Grand Munich ensures all event attendees leave feeling empowered and recharged.

CUISINE

Catering plays a key role in the success of an event. We offer a variety of options to suit every taste. Traditional Bavarian restaurants or international cuisine, stylish bars or delicious baked goods – the hotel has an expansive offering of delicious food. There are additional spaces available designated for private dining, or one can rent out the restaurants exclusively for the event.

DISCOVER #BEMUNIQUE

With #bemunique The Westin Grand Munich promises their customers unprecedented flexibility when it comes to choosing the right hotel for their meeting and event needs in Munich. Together with the Four Points by Sheraton Munich Arabellapark, located just across the street the hotels form a large conference center with 21 meeting rooms and 1073 rooms.

LOCATION

Located close to the English Garden one can reach the city centre and the main train station in ten minutes using the subway. Munich trade fair grounds are directly reachable by bus within 25 minutes. Whether you’re just arriving or continuing onward, Munich Airport is a quick 22

well-being of your guests. Total relaxation, excellent meals, and healthy snacks for in between.

SPECIAL OFFERINGS:

l Exclusive restaurant spaces and ballrooms available for private breakfasts and gala dinners for up to 800 guests

l Possibility for approved Indian caterers to take over the kitchen

l Minimum of 2 Indian Breakfast items

50 YEARS OF THE WESTIN GRAND MUNICH

2022 marks the 50th anniversary of Munich’s iconic The Westin Grand Munich hotel located at the Arabellapark. 50 years of memories, exciting changes throughout the decades, unforgettable guests and employees but most of all 50 years of a successful journey. Walk in the footsteps of the many who have celebrated their most important moments with us, one of the leading convention hotels in Europe.

TO CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF THE WESTIN GRAND MUNICH WE HAVE CURATED A FEW SPECIAL OFFERS:

l Receive double Marriott Bonvoy points

l Complimentary Welcome Drink

l Cumulatively every paid 50th DDR is on us

l Cumulatively every paid 50th room is on us and will be upgraded

l Rewarding your repeat business: receive 5% of the total invoice, if your

THE UNBOUND COLLECTION BY HYATT BRAND TO DEBUT IN INDIA WITH THE NOOR-US-SABAH PALACE IN BHOPAL

HYATT ANNOUNCED PLANS for the debut of e Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand in India with the signing of a management agreement for Bhopal’s Noor-UsSabah Palace. One of Bhopal’s oldest and most sought-a er hotels, Noor-Us-Sabah Palace will undergo extensive refurbishment to join e Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand as a 60-room heritage hotel and is expected to open in 2025. Spread across 18 acres, the hotel was originally built as a royal residence in the 1920s by Bhopal’s erstwhile ruler, Begum Sultan Jehan and it was subsequently converted into a hotel in 1998. e hotel will be completely renovated to bring alive the history and legacy of the Nawab’s royal residence through its interior design, and its storied past will be harnessed to deliver unique and authentic experiences. e hotel will also provide a distinctive and unique location for weddings and events, in addition to catering to premium business and leisure travellers. hyatt.com

IHG STRENGTHENS PORTFOLIO IN RAJASTHAN WITH A CROWNE PLAZA RESORT SIGNING IN PUSHKAR

IHG HOTELS AND RESORTS has signed a management agreement with SRDF Ventures Private Limited to develop a new Crowne Plaza Resort in the city of Pushkar – a key tourism destination in Rajasthan. Crowne Plaza Resort Pushkar will be a new-built property featuring 125 rooms and is expected to be operational by early 2026. With currently two operating hotels and two under development in Rajasthan, Crowne Plaza Resort Pushkar will be the h hotel from IHG to open in the state, along the NH8 highway. ihg.com

VISTARA INAUGURATES NON-STOP FLIGHT BETWEEN

VISTARA AND SINGAPORE AIRLINES have successfully inaugurated non-stop ights between Jeddah and Mumbai. e inaugural ight departed from Mumbai on August 2, 2022 at 1805 Hours (IST) and landed in Jeddah at 2050 Hours (AST). e airline now ies thrice a week between the two cities on its Airbus A320 Neo aircra . e airline will y the route on Tuesday, ursday and Saturday, with the ight taking o from Mumbai for Jeddah at 1805 Hours on these days and reaching Jeddah at 2050 Hours (local time). e return ight will y from Jeddah on Tuesday, ursday and Saturday at 2150 Hours and reach Mumbai at 0530 Hours (local time) the next morning. e inaugural ight from Jeddah to Mumbai was operated on August 3, 2022. airvistara.com

THE LEELA BHARTIYA CITY BENGALURU LAUNCHES AMARIS, THE SPA

THE LEELA BHARTIYA CITY BENGALURU has opened its doors to Amaris e Spa. e word Amaris means ‘Promised by God’ in Hebrew and so the spa seeks to deliver luxurious rejuvenating experiences that live up to its name. Overlooking the Bhartiya City Central Park, Amaris e Spa has a calm and soothing aura that instantly makes one feel relaxed and at ease. e spa features ve spacious treatment rooms including a couple treatment room, steam and sauna. A wide range of exclusive massage therapies like e Swedish Spirit and Balinese Massage, to traditional techniques of Aromatherapy and Abhyanga have all been de ly curated for guests to choose from. e spa menu has been thoughtfully curated to keep changing lifestyles and needs of the present audience, with holistic therapies that o er the best of traditional healing and cooling ingredients. A er availing the services at the spa, the guest is taken to the beautiful lounging area of Amaris e Spa where hanging couches li your feet o the ground in a mini foot dipping pool. theleela.com

PALACE ON WHEELS TO START AGAIN BY SEPTEMBER

THE RENOWNED LUXURY train, Palace on Wheels, will be back on the tracks by September. Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation’s chairman Dharmendra Rathore stated that Rajasthan’s famous luxury train will run on the tracks from September in all likelihood. He added that the state government and the Tourism Development Corporation are keen to bring the most loved train back on the tracks on a publicprivate partnership for which meetings with the company are now at an advanced stage. As per the reports, the luxury train was not operational for the past two years due to the pandemic. e luxury train has been operating since 1982.

BRITISH AIRWAYS TO RETURN TO DOUBLE-DAILY ON HEATHROW-SINGAPORE ROUTE

BRITISH AIRWAYS IS to resume its second daily ight between London and Singapore this winter.

In a short statement provided to Business Traveller the carrier con rmed that ights BA11 and BA12 would restart for the winter 2022 schedules from October 30, 2022. For the rst few days of operation the BA11/BA12 ights are showing as being served by a B777 aircra , before switching to a B787 in early November. ba.com

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A city trip that makes shopping and travel dreams come true

Award-winning architecture and metropolitan feeling in direct neighbourhood with mountains, castles, and romantic halftimbered houses in a wine growing area: the region surrounding Metzingen is well-worth seeing and rightly one of the most attractive tourism regions in Germany. At the base of the Swabian Alb biosphere reserve, you can not only recharge your batteries, but also enjoy sportive leisure activities.

Finnair launches flights to Mumbai

ON AUGUST 6, FINNAIR launched new direct ights from Helsinki to Mumbai in India. Flights to the Indian city will initially operate three times a week, increasing to four times weekly in November. Customers will experience Finnair’s state-of-the-art A330, which o ers a choice of ying in Business Class or Economy Class. e new route to Mumbai marks the start of Finnair’s second service to India, with the carrier already ying daily to the capital, New Delhi. To mark the celebrations, the inaugural ight from Helsinki departed following a joint ceremony between Finnair and Finavia, the Finnish airport operator. As a sweet treat, customers onboard were served specially cra ed chocolates from renowned Finnish confectionist - Fazer. nnair.com

ANANTARA BRAND TO DEBUT IN SOUTH AMERICA

ANANTARA HOTELS, RESORTS AND SPAS has announced plans to open its rst property in South America, located in the Brazilian state of Bahia. e Anantara Mamucabo

will be situated around 150 kilometres from the city of Salvador, overlooking the ocean and protected sandbank reserves. e 500,000 sqm development will begin construction next year, with an opening date slated for 2025. Facilities will include 116 rooms, suites and pool villas ranging in size from 70 to 163 sqm, as well as two outdoor swimming pools, a beach club, tennis and paddle tennis courts, tness centre, spa, yoga terrace, water sports area and kids club. F&B venues will include a restaurant and bar

Bahia Resort

serving regional dishes, a signature restaurant o ering contemporary international and Brazilian cuisine, and an Asian restaurant with views of the Mamucabo River. anantara.com

IHCL ANNOUNCES THE OPENING OF ITS FOURTH GINGER HOTEL IN MUMBAI

IHCL ANNOUNCED THE opening of Ginger, Goregaon in Mumbai. With this, the Ginger brand strengthens its presence in the nancial capital of India. With 102 rooms, the re-imagined Ginger Goregaon is strategically located o the Western Express Highway, with easy access to NESCO IT Park, the NESCO Exhibition Centre (Bombay Exhibition Centre) and Film City. e hotel features Ginger’s newly designed signature rooms, a tness centre and an all-day diner. A key business and residential hub in Mumbai, Goregaon comprises of major corporate and IT parks, shopping malls and industrial zones. With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will have 13 hotels in Mumbai, including three under development. ihcltata.com

added a regional favourite ‘Galouti Kebab with Ulte Tawa ka Paratha’ to its in- ight dining menu,‘Gourmair’. airasia.co.in

QMIN DELIVERS OVER 57,000 MEALS TO ASSIST FLOOD AFFECTED COMMUNITIES IN ASSAM

JAMSETJI TATA HAD once said, “In a free enterprise, the community is not just another stakeholder in business, but is in fact the very purpose of its existence”. is ethos has been said to be the guiding force for IHCL. In line with its values and focus on community as de ned by its ESG + framework, Paathya, IHCL has extended a helping hand to ood a ected families in Assam with Vivanta Guwahati o ering over 57,000 meals from its culinary platform, Qmin, across 17 a ected villages. With over nine lakh people a ected by the oods in Assam in addition to expansive destruction of crops, livestock and property, the local community has united to provide key resources and amenities to those adversely impacted. ihcltata.com

AZERBAIJAN AIRLINES RESUMED direct ights between Baku and New Delhi as of August 9, in partnership with Zeal Global Group. Azerbaijan is currently seeing an increase in the number of travellers from India. With daily ights between Baku and New Delhi, the number of arrivals from the country is expected to grow further. “Right before the pandemic, India was among the top 10 countries we received travellers from. Since the opening of international borders between the countries, India is once again placed at the top of this list. Azerbaijan is ready to welcome Indian travellers to enjoy picturesque places surrounded by breathtaking nature, rich gastronomy, great venues and services for MICE events as well as weddings” said Florian Sengstschmid, Chief Executive O cer of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board. Direct ights between the capitals of Azerbaijan and India will be operated twice a week: ights from Baku on Tuesdays and Fridays, and ights from New Delhi on Wednesdays and Saturdays. azal.az

STARTING SEPTEMBER, LE

BRISTOL PARIS will welcome diners for an intimate, once-ina-lifetime experience. e palace hotel will host a combined private art viewing, and a three-course dinner, custom-created by triple Michelin starred Executive Chef Eric Frechon. e guest of honour are Marc Chagall and his masterpiece Les Mariés au coq. A decidedly rare and quintessentially Parisian experience, the pairing of Les Mariés au coq by Marc Chagall with Chef Eric Frechon’s delicate menu brings together the talent and expertise of a triple-Michelin-starred chef and of one of the most in uential artists of the 20th century. is exclusive dinner is the perfect occasion to celebrate and enjoy a moment suspended in time. e exquisite three-course meal, the glamorous ambiance of the Paris Suite and the presence of an original Chagall set the tone for an unforgettable evening marked by French elegance and excellence. oetkercollection.com

INDIA LEADS ASIA-PACIFIC in its intent to travel in the second half of 2022 with 50 per cent Indians expressing the desire to spend more money on booking a vacation in the survey conducted by Travel Lifestyle Network in a post-pandemic setting. While international travel still remains a point of contention among many, with only 15 per cent respondents willing to travel abroad, 29 per cent people are planning to vacation in India. India emerged as the global leader in domestic travel with 24 per cent people undertaking at least one vacation every month, for which the global average stands at 11 per cent. e country is also way-ahead of its global counterparts in business travel with almost 18 per cent Indians travelling for work within the country once a month.With participation from 179,446 people across 28 countries, the survey provides insight into the state of travel across the 28 relevant markets including travel behaviour patterns.

BOEING RESUMES B787 DREAMLINER DELIVERIES

B787s

JW MARRIOTT MUSSOORIE WALNUT GROVE RESORT AND SPA’S ‘HIMALAYAN BOOK CLUB’ INVITES ANOTHER BESTSELLING AUTHOR

JW MARRIOTT MUSSOORIE turns another chapter by inviting another notable author for Between the Covers – e Himalayan Book Club. More than a marketing phenomenon, the book club pays homage to Mussoorie’s own rich literary heritage. As a vast experiment, the hotel continues to spark conversations and interactions between hotel guests and writers from across the country. From celebrated authors to shining a light on new-age novelists, the hotel’s agenda extends beyond increasing literacy because it wants to expose individuals to books, that not only matter but in some ways are also relatable to guests. e second author in residence on the roster was Durjoy Datta. e in ux of writers and creativity that has come alive in Mussoorie is de nitely noteworthy. In fact, it is said that, for every reader in town, there are at least three writers. Now, JW Marriott Mussoorie aims at inviting even more inspired minds, making it the perfect rendezvous spot and platform to continue building Mussoorie’s literary heritage while empowering guests with some of the nest works in writing and storytelling. marriott.com

BOEING HAS RESUMED delivery of its B787 aircra , a er approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration. Dreamliner deliveries had been suspended since May 2021, following concerns over production aws and inspection processes, but the FAA con rmed that “Boeing has made the necessary changes to ensure that the 787 Dreamliner meets certi cation standards”. e administration said that it would inspect each aircra before an air-worthiness certi cate is issued and cleared for delivery. AA currently has 47

in its eet, with another 42 on order, and hopes to take delivery of a total of nine Dreamliners this year, followed by four in 2023, and 12 in 2024. Boeing is understood to have built up a backlog of over 100 constructed B787 aircra which are awaiting delivery to customers and has temporarily reduced production of the twin-aisle plane. boeing.com

Oberoi hotels and resorts announces 'The Oberoi Concours d'Elegance'

OBEROI HOTELS AND resorts announces e Oberoi Concours d’Elegance. Over its 90-year history, Oberoi Hotels and Resorts has been committed to promoting and preserving Indian heritage and hosting prestigious classic and vintage car rallies around its award winning properties. In keeping with this tradition, e Oberoi Concours d’Elegance will set a new benchmark to showcase the nest vintage and classic automobiles and motorcycles from India and abroad. e Oberoi Concours d’Elegance will be hosted at e Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, in February 2024. Set against the majestic backdrop of Lake Pichola and traditional domed architecture of the resort, e Oberoi Concours d’Elegance will celebrate the remarkable design and cra smanship of the world’s most sought a er and distinctive vehicles. Owned by Indian royalty and private collectors, the Concours will be a unique opportunity to view some of the rarest and most historically signi cant automobiles restored and preserved over many generations. e event will be curated by India’s leading automotive historian, Manvendra Singh Barwani. In addition, a distinguished panel of classic car cognoscenti from across the globe will judge cars and motorcycles in di erent classi cations. Ms. Sandra Button, Chairman of the prestigious and globally renowned Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, will serve as Chief Judge. oberoihotels.com

Priority Pass o ers members access to tness app WithU

PRIORITY PASS HAS added a new bene t enabling members to access audio-based workouts in partnership with the tness app WithU. Customers who purchase memberships through prioritypass. com can now redeem free access to over 1,000 workouts “led by world-class coaches”, in what Priority Pass is calling “a rst-of-its-kind for a travel experiences programme”. e group said that the workouts are designed for all tness levels, and “incorporate the use of a 3D avatar to help guide members on their form”. In recent years, Priority Pass has been gradually expanding its portfolio beyond a pure lounge access provider, with the addition of options including dining and spa experiences . In 2019 they also trialled a new scheme giving members access to express lanes at security and passport control at select airports. prioritypass.com

EMIRATES TO INTRODUCE A380 ON DUBAIBENGALURU ROUTE

EMIRATES HAS SAID that it will start deploying its agship A380 on its Dubai-Bengaluru route for the rst time beginning October 30. e airline will become the rst carrier to operate an A380 service to Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International airport. e daily A380 ights will operate as EK568/569 with an aircra in a three-class con guration, o ering seats in economy class, in addition to premium cabins, in business class and rst class. Bengaluru will be only the second city in India to be served by Emirates’ A380 aircra – the airline began operating an A380 to Mumbai in 2014. Emirates started operations to India in 1985 with its scheduled services to Mumbai and Delhi and has been ying to Bengaluru since 2006. e airline at present provides access to nine points in India. Emirates says that it has been deploying its agship A380 aircra to an expanded list of destinations worldwide “to meet high customer demand on routes popular amongst global travellers”. e A380 helps boost capacity on a single ight by up to 45 percent compared to a Boeing 777 aircra . As of this month, the Emirates A380 aircra ies to over 30 airports across six continents, with a total of over 130 destinations in the airline’s global network. emirates.com

HONOURING ST REGIS HOTELS AND RESORTS’ long-standing tradition of sabrage, the brand has announced the launch of private champagne sabrage masterclasses at all properties across North America. Launching this summer, guests and locals alike will have the opportunity to book a private champagne sabering masterclass led by an expertly trained St Regis butler at e St. Regis Atlanta, e St Regis Aspen Resort, e St Regis Bal Harbour Resort, e St Regis Deer Valley, e St Regis Houston, e St Regis New York, e St Regis San Francisco, e St Regis Toronto, and e St Regis Washington D.C. e art of sabrage has an illustrious history that stretches back more than 200 years. For St Regis Hotels and Resorts, the ritual dates back to 1904 when hotel founder John Jacob Astor IV would nightly have a bottle sabered on-property to celebrate the transition from day to night. Astor was inspired by the glamour of sabrage, an act which had been made famous by Napoleon Bonaparte, who opened champagne with his sabre and notably said, “Champagne: in victory, one deserves it; in defeat, one needs it.” Today, St. Regis Hotels and Resorts around the world continue the tradition with nightly and celebratory sabering rituals performed regularly across the global portfolio. st-regis.marriott.com

MUMBAI'S NEWEST JAPANESE RESTAURANT AKINA INTRODUCES WARAYAKI COOKING TO THE CITY

TRANSPORTED FROM THE heady bylanes of Kochi prefecture – on the southern coast of Shikoku – to the bustling streets of Bandra, the ancient warayaki cooking method is the shining star of the new Japanese dining establishment, Akina. e restaurant, with its bold approach on modern Japanese cuisine, aims to instil a sense of excitement and wonder through an innovative dining experience.

INDIA HANDS OVER DORNIER MARITIME SURVEILLANCE AIRCRAFT TO SRI LANKA NAVY

celebrated its 75th Independence Day and a day before a high-tech Chinese missile and satellite tracking ship docks at the island nation’s Hambantota port. Vice Chief of Indian Navy Vice Admiral S N Ghormade, who was on a two-day visit to the country, accompanied by Indian High Commissioner in Colombo Gopal Baglay, handed over the maritime surveillance aircra to the Sri Lanka Navy at the Sri Lanka Air Force base in Katunayake, adjoining the Colombo international airport. “Security of India and Sri Lanka is enhanced by mutual understanding, mutual trust and cooperation. Gi ing of Dornier 228 is India’s latest contribution to this cause” High Commissioner Baglay said at the handing over event. e aircra is being provided to Sri Lanka from the inventory of the Indian Navy to help the country meet its immediate security requirement, sources in New Delhi said. Furthermore, the Indian Navy has already provided extensive training to a team from Sri Lanka’s Navy and the Air Force to operate the maritime surveillance aircra .

The Emirati

Hospitality

MICE and destination weddings in Abu Dhabi and Dubai

WORDS KHURSHEED MISTRY

MICE exemplify an area of tourism which comprise business events and activities such as client meetings, brand and product promotions, business expansions, employee training and incentives. With innovative agendas, important players and a viable, strategic location, the last two decades have made Abu Dhabi and Dubai popular destinations for tourism, destination weddings and international businesses. In 2019, the UAE experienced crushing revenue losses caused by stringent travel limitations which steered the cessation of their main economy like airlines, hotels and tourism. Even though in 2022, they have made signi cant developments in reviving the economy by opening borders once again to world travellers, it will take some time before the country operates at full strength as before.

To further fortify economic advancement strategies, the Abu Dhabi government is pulling out all stops and has started making heavy MICE infrastructural investments in the city, with the aim of optimistically targetting three million visitors by the end of 2022. Dubai’s ground-breaking, smart technological advancements have increased connectivity and

bridged the travel gap, by o ering rst-time business travellers and repeat visitors, one-of-a-kind travel experiences. A ‘digital, mobile and social rst’, aggressive tourism strategy for 2022 -2025 is expected to empower the harnessing of data, rede ning a consumer’s travel experience and creating cutting-edge digitised, customised and democratised travel eco-systems.

e Expo 2020 Dubai, brought a lot of positivity, buoyancy and con dence to the MICE industry, which is estimated to grow exponentially in 2022, with various interesting events added to the calendar.

Adding to the versatility of these well-known Emirates is their popularity as leading, global luxury hubs for destination weddings. When it comes to planning a wedding, Abu Dhabi and Dubai rank among the top in the world and are favoured for myriad reasons; right from accessibility, exotic culinary choices, lavish o erings to the multitude of choices and activities that wedding guests can enjoy. With breathtaking landscapes, unique venue options, chic hotels, and top-of-line facilities, the consumer is thoroughly spoilt for choice and will lack for nothing.

Business Traveller India curates some of the nest MICE and destination wedding luxury hotels and in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

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ABU DHABI

CONRAD ABU DHABI ETIHAD

TOWERS

Located a short distance from the Presidential Palace, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, a towering marvel o ers spectacular cityscapes. e stylishly designed 377 rooms and suites have breathtaking sea views with integrated tech and 24hour room service. Spacious luxury apartments with separate living spaces, full-sized kitchens and premium amenities o er guests more room to relax and enjoy the magni cent view. A spectacular observation deck on the 74th oor, 12 awardwinning world cuisine restaurants and bars, three outdoor pools, a luxurious spa with 13 top-of-line treatment rooms, a private beach and the stunning 1920 sqm, Mezzoon Ballroom. Whether it is a lavish wedding reception, a cocktail party or a multi-course sit-down meal, Conrad Abu Dhabi can make your vision a reality with cutting-edge lighting, sound and video technologies and multilingual production teams that o er impeccable service making it ideal to host business events, and destination weddings. hilton.com

DESTINATIONS

INTERCONTINENTAL ABU DHABI

e Intercontinental Abu Dhabi an iconic landmark, is at the heart of this dynamic capital. Expansive sophisticated spaces, award-winning dining choices, premium wellness facilities and 390 spacious guest rooms with panoramic city and coastal views o er guests the best of luxury away from home. is unique urban luxury resort, rich in heritage and culture features outstanding meeting and events spaces, an elegant Club Intercontinental lounge and personalised concierge services. Whether it is a milestone or a corporate event, the exible venues can host meetings and conferences of any size. e magni cent grand ballrooms are perfect

JUMEIRAH AT SAADIYAT ISLAND RESORT

A rich blend of modern style, opulence and middle eastern warmth makes Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort an idyllic seafront setting perfect for business and celebrations. Guests can relax into the island way of life and enjoy tranquil sea views in deluxe rooms and suites with private balconies, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, a separate bathtub and luxury bathroom amenities. is ultra-chic island resort is a luxurious environment to host a banquet, a lavish wedding, an exhibition or a product launch. World-class ne dining spaces and plush indoor locations are complemented by stunning outdoor facilities, a luxurious spa with traditional therapies to unwind and reinvigorate the body and mind, a beautifully manicured and landscaped garden, wi -enabled meeting rooms, audio-visual facilities and an onsite AV technical team. Top-of-the-line banqueting facilities have a separate entrance for maximum privacy and a stylish pre-function area for important socialising or networking. jumeirah.com

THE ST. REGIS SAADIYAT ISLAND

RESORT, ABU DHABI

Mediterranean-inspired architecture seamlessly blends with contemporary interiors in hotel rooms and suites with private balconies and a 24-hour St. Regis butler service. e St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi overlooks a vast beach, the azure Arabian Gulf, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and an o shoot of the newly opened Louvre and soon-to-open Guggenheim museum. Guests can rejuvenate at Iridium Spa, re-energize in the luxurious indoor or three outdoor pools, or relax on the private beach before dining at one of six destination restaurants and bars. e Regal Ballroom one of several unique spaces in the hotel is an extraordinary venue with state-of-the-art audiovisual facilities which are ideal for any event; from largescale events, and business meetings to ostentatious weddings, the hotel o ers bespoke catering options and an events team who helps to design every aspect of an event or celebration. is ve-star luxury resort guarantees to create timeless marriott.com

W ABU DHABIYAS ISLAND

W Abu Dhabi Yas Island is a magni cent concourse that is spread over two buildings and reveals the best of the capital’s history, heritage and culture. It o ers 3520 sqm of event space, 26 event rooms with state-of-the-art facilities and a multitude of amenities which enhance event spaces with style. Inspirational architecture in the form of a bold welcome area, bespoke welcome desks and Whatever/Whenever canoe desks embody the Abu Dhabi waterways and the mode of travel to the city.  e vibrant 499 guest rooms and suites with oorto-ceiling windows o er views of the race track or marina. e great room, seven studios, four strategy, and outdoor terraces for meetings and social gatherings o er eclectic experiences; whether it is a venue for businesses or hosting weddings, the hotel provides a team of expert planners to take care of everything so that guests can sit back and enjoy their stay. For adrenaline enthusiasts, W Abu Dhabi Yas Island provides the ultimate combination of adventure and luxury. marriott.com

DUBAI

Al Habtoor City

Located by the arterial Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Habtoor City is easily accessible from the international airports in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah. ree world-class hotels - Habtoor Palace, Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, and V Hotel Dubai, with unparalleled opulence, are in the heart of Al Habtoor City. When it comes to unmatched regal hospitality, Habtoor Palace Dubai o ers a palatial experience, where guests are treated like royalty. Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City guarantees to indulge guests and o ers a plethora of unforgettable experiences. V Hotel Dubai is a magni cent luxury hub to socialize and connect; it leaves guests spoilt for choices.  e hotels which collectively provide almost 1,600 tastefully designed rooms and suites, 23 world-class restaurants and lounges, three ballrooms, 37 meeting rooms, two world-class spas and ve outdoor venues have rede ned luxury hospitality. Each hotel has magni cent spaces with top-of-line audiovisual facilities and can host large corporate events, exhibitions and grand weddings. hilton.com

HABTOOR GRAND RESORT, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION

e tranquil waterfront ve-star Habtoor Grand Resort is located on Dubai’s pristine Jumeirah Beach. Spanning over 446 stylish rooms and suites and with award-winning restaurants, luxurious wellness o erings, a wide range of catering options, curated gourmet menus, celebrated culinary experts and a worldclass team of dedicated event planners. e spectacular resort is an ideal choice to make events a resounding success. With a total indoor event space of 3905 sqm, a grand ballroom and three meeting rooms which are equipped with the latest audiovisual technology, Habtoor Grand Resort is perfect for hosting corporate events, award functions, conferences, meetings and lavish weddings of all sizes. e hotel o ers exquisite, curated experiences designed with opulence in mind; whether it is a thematic wedding décor, an outdoor ceremony overlooking the beach, on the lush lawn or an indoor lavish reception in the ballroom, Habtoor Grand Resort brings to life every elegant

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS HOTEL DUBAI

One of the tallest hotels in the world, with modern luxury and award-winning services, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai is in the heart of Dubai’s downtown and a few minutes from iconic landmarks. Soaring resplendently, it boasts breathtaking views of the cityscape. Elegantly furnished rooms and suites, complimentary wi , marble bathrooms, 24-hour room service, an outdoor pool, a modern tness centre and the luxurious Saray Spa o er guests the best luxury experiences. e hotel hosts more than 15 award-winning restaurants o ering authentic international cuisine, bars and lounges. With over 8000 sqm of adaptable space; a striking ballroom and outdoor venues, hosting a corporate event has never been easier. From planning a dream wedding; an indoor ceremony in the swanky ballroom or hosting an al fresco wedding reception at the idyllic outdoor pool deck, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, has a team of experts who help to organise and execute the smallest details. marriott.com

TAJ EXOTICA RESORT AND SPA,

THE PALM, DUBAI

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, e Palm, Dubai, a distinctive island oasis rising grandly from the iconic Palm Jumeirah, is surrounded by white sands and turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea. Resort views and sea-facing, 258 rooms and 67 suites amidst stunning surroundings, make it a verdant sanctuary in the heart of the city’s downtown area. Guests have plenty of choices with myriad nedining restaurants, world-class bars, a lounge with scenic views of the island, a top-of-the-line tness centre and the ultra-luxurious Jiva spa that o ers some of the best holistic treatments in the world. Celebrate life’s big moments at this haven of tranquillity; conferences, weddings, milestone celebrations, award ceremonies and much more, with distinctive spaces including two spectacular ballrooms and eight meeting rooms. Bold or classical, grand or intimate, the expansive event venues give life to love stories or visions for success with business teams. tajhotels.com

THE ST REGIS DOWNTOWN, DUBAI

e St. Regis Downtown Dubai boasts 298 lavishly designed rooms and suites, overlooking local well-known landmarks. e spacious guest rooms feature oor-to-ceiling windows, plush bedding, marble bathrooms, walk-in wardrobes and beautiful coral-inspired wall sculptures. From the signature a ernoon tea to celebratory champagne sabering, there is an array of unique culinary and beverage experiences to choose from. To unwind and relax, guests can take an invigorating swim in the in nity pool, and experience bespoke signature treatments by trained expert therapists at e St. Regis Spa, or utilise the state-of-the-art health and tness equipment available at the tness centre. e St Regis Downtown, Dubai helps to create indelible and memorable moments; whether it is hosting a board meeting, a gala or wedding ceremonies, the in-house events specialist customises every detail of an event. Seven lavish event spaces and the regal ballrooms with their majestic views make perfect venues for all occasions.

Grecian getaway

As visitors return, Athens is opening a range of new hotels. From affordable urban options to luxurious seaside resorts, there is plenty of choice for the discerning traveller

WORDS PAUL J DEVRIES

After two difficult years, this summer is one of optimism for Greece. Tourist traffic is on its way back to, and possibly set to beat, 2019 levels – a critical upward trend in a country where one in four jobs is directly or indirectly generated by tourism.

Visitors to Athens will have a range of new and refreshed hotels to choose from, with the wave of hotel development sweeping other European capitals making its way to the city. The rebirth of the 1960s Astir Palace in Vouliagmeni kicked things off in early 2019, emerging as a lavish Four Seasons resort with 330 rooms and suites (including the original bungalows nestled in the pine trees) and an endless list of amenities. An outpost of One and Only Resorts is coming to completion just up the coast, and the former international airport – one of Europe’s largest redevelopment projects – will be home to multiple hotels. There is greater choice in the city centre too, including

smaller, boutique options for those who prefer something more intimate. Monsieur Didot opened in late 2019 with only four rooms and two suites, inside an 1880s neoclassical building where John Lennon and Yoko Ono stayed incognito when visiting the Greek capital.

Xenodocheio Milos Athens is located opposite the National Historical Museum, and opened at the start of this year with 43 rooms and suites. It is the first hotel venture of Costas Spiliadis, the chef behind the Estiatorio Milos restaurant brand in cities including London and New York. Meanwhile, the 1963 Modernist-style Hilton Athens will nearly halve its room count as part of its transformation into Conrad Athens. Here we take a look at a selection of recent arrivals and upcoming openings in Athens, and some noteworthy additions on the mainland coast and out on the country’s sunlit islands.

CHRISTOS DRAZOS PHOTOGRAPHY

Athens Capital Center Hotel – M Gallery Collection

In September 2020, Athens Capital Center Hotel opened just off of Syntagma Square – across the street from and by the same owner of the historic Hotel Grande Bretagne. Its 159 rooms and 19 suites – including a presidential suite with private terrace – are dressed in a contemporary mix of whites, greys, blues and dark wood.

Sweeping views of the city are a highlight of Mappemonde rooftop pool and bar – named after an art installation by George Lappas, part of which is displayed in the ten-storey atrium. M Flavours restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine, while Galerie Café is the place for coffee or cocktails.

Athens Capital Center Hotel marked the introduction of Accor’s M Gallery Collection to Greece, and the first upscale hotel by the French group in the city centre (there is a Sofitel at the airport). In April, it cut the ribbon on a second M Gallery property, the 141-room, adults-only Niko Seaside Resort in Crete.

Last summer, it also opened

Angsana Corfu, the first European resort under the brand, with 159 rooms and suites, as well as 37 pool villas, overlooking Benitses Bay. mgallery.accor.com

The Modernist Athens

Inside the former Canadian Embassy in the city’s Kolonaki neighbourhood, The Modernist Athens opened in autumn 2020 with 38 rooms in four categories, ranging from S – with raised platform beds – to XL. Category M rooms and upwards feature terraces; some have private outdoor hot tubs. Minimalist Danish design strikes a balance between light and dark with ash blond wood floors, dark grey ceilings, velvet soft furnishings and black-and-white bathrooms.

There is a café off the hotel lobby, as well as a seventh-floor roof garden and terrace. A second Modernist hotel can be found in Thessaloniki. themodernisthotels.com

Brown Acropol Athens Founded in Tel Aviv in 2010, Brown Hotels has a portfolio of 24 hotels in its native Israel, alongside a property in Croatia. The opening of Brown Acropol Athens in autumn 2020 began an aggressive expansion into Greece, with the plan to have

40 hotels in the country by 2024.

On revitalised Omonia Square, Brown Acropol takes over a 1976 building designed by Emmanuel Vourekas, the architect behind the city’s Hilton hotel. Burned orange, mustard, shades of brown, and patterned wallpaper bring a retro feel to the interiors. The 165 rooms and suites come in different sizes, from small ‘solo’ rooms with single beds to executive suites with separate living areas. Panelled oak, dusty pink and gold set the tone in the cocktail bar, while the rooftop has a gym and four outdoor hot tubs. There is also a spa with sauna and hammam.

This June, the group added Isla Brown Corinthia, an hour’s drive west of Athens overlooking the Saronic Gulf. A striking contemporary building by Elastic Architects, its bright white, undulating façade contrasts with the blue of the sea and sky. There are 166 rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a number of restaurants (including a ‘cave-like’ sushi bar), a rooftop with wet area and bar, water sports centre, and private beach. Next year, an extension will add 110 bungalows with pool and restaurant in the hills behind the hotel. Two more Isla Brown hotels are coming to Crete and Corfu as well. brownhotels.com

NEW

BELOW: Athens Capital Center Hotel – M Gallery Collection

RIGHT: A room at The Modernist Athens

ATHENS HOTELS

Villa Brown Ermou

In May 2021, Villa Brown Ermou followed, a short walk from the city’s historic Plaka neighbourhood. One of four Villa Brown hotels in the group, the townhouse-style property offers 51 rooms and suites, with a design offsetting black and white with soft pink, sage green and copper. A cocktail lounge and bistro serves food all day. A rooftop with pool, lounge, a second restaurant, and spa are still to follow. brownhotels.com

Dave Red Athens

In summer 2021, Dave Red Athens opened, part of a sub-brand of ‘affordable urban’ hotels targeting younger travellers. Located in the vibrant Omonia neighbourhood, it has 87 industrial-style rooms, with bare concrete walls, exposed pipes, and ‘punchy décor’ – inside what used to be the headquarters of the Greek communist party.

Urban rooms are petite, starting at 11 sqm. Foxy rooms come with a circular bed, while Foxy+ rooms have a king size bed enclosed on three sides by pillows. The rooftop has a pool table, hot tub, massage room, and serves complimentary sparkling wine. The ground floor restaurant and bar, and the underground nightclub, are operated by Six Dogs, a local hospitality group. brownhotels.com

Lighthouse Athens

Located in between Dave Red and Brown Acropol, Lighthouse Athens began welcoming guests at the start

of April. Sister hotel to Lighthouse Tel Aviv, Brown’s flagship property, the 220-room hotel takes the group to nearly 500 rooms within a few city blocks around Omonia Square. Compact rooms – with mirrored walls to enhance the sense of space – marry a moody colour scheme (teal, green, mauve and black) and Baroque elements with contemporary furniture. The requisite rooftop has 360° views, with a pool, hot tubs, and open-air sushi bar. The first floor restaurant and bar offer all-day dining with views over Omonia Square; a large nightclub will follow later this year. brownhotels.com

Hellenic

Vibes Smart Hotel

Walk down Agias Irinis street, around the corner from Monastiraki Square, and you won’t miss Hellenic Vibes Smart Hotel, courtesy of the giant, kaleidoscopic murals flanking the hotel’s entrance.

Opened in July 2021, there are 28 rooms and 7 suites, accessible by mobile key, with minimalist décor and sleek bathrooms. Some rooms have private terraces with Acropolis views. There is a restaurant serving traditional Greek breakfast, and Greek and Mediterranean dishes for lunch. hellenicvibes.gr

Gatsby Athens

In autumn 2021, Gatsby Athens opened with 33 rooms and suites a few minutes’ west of Syntagma Square. Art Deco-inspired interiors feature pink headboards and dark

velvet sofas, diamond-tiled showers in pink and light blue, and brass accents. Some rooms have freestanding bathtubs, while the 52 sqm Party suite has an outdoor hot tub and cinema projector.

Gatsby restaurant focuses on sharing dishes and serves food all day, while Gatsby bar runs from early morning coffee and fresh juices through to evening cocktails. Rooftop bar Cloud 9 has a stone fireplace for cooler nights. gatsbyathens.com

Vasi Athens

Original Greek terrazzo floors can be found in the 18 rooms and suites

TOP LEFT: The bar at Gatsby Athens

LEFT: Estiatorio Milos restaurant at Xenodocheio Milos Athens

BELOW RIGHT: A room at Vasi Athens

BELOW LEFT: A Center Stage room at Moxy Athens City

of Vasi Athens, which opened in autumn 2021, in the Psyri district. There is a range of different room categories, including options for families with extra bunk beds in the room – all feature minimalist décor in light tones. Some suites have terraces with hot tubs and Acropolis views. Complimentary breakfast is served around a communal table on the ground floor. vasihotels.com

Xenodocheio Milos Athens

Opposite the National Historical Museum, Xenodocheio Milos Athens opened at the start of this year as a celebration of Greek philoxenia or hospitality. The first hotel by chef Costas Spiliadis, its restaurant, Estiatorio Milos, serves a seafoodfocused menu in a minimalist space dressed in creams and whites with soaring ceilings. Other Estiatorio Milos locations include New York, Montreal and London.

There are 43 rooms and suites –some with private terraces – with wooden floors and curved wooden headboards, sleek furniture, marble bathrooms and warm blue as a contrasting colour. There is also a gym and an Elemis wellness suite for spa treatments.

For a philoxenia experience closer to its namesake island, Milos at Sea offers the option of two private charter yachts catered by the restaurant group to explore

the Greek islands, with the largest accommodating up to ten passengers overnight. xenodocheiomilos.com

Moxy Athens City

At the end of March, Marriott expanded its offering in the Greek capital with Moxy Athens City, its affordable-chic design brand. The 200 ‘cosy and smart’ guestrooms come in two main categories: Backstage rooms have limited views, while Center Stage rooms offer city views. The rooftop penthouse can also be used for events. There is a 24/7 Moxy Bar and a fitness centre.

This summer, Marriott will also expand in Costa Navarino, the master development in Messinia, southwest Peloponnese, currently home to a Westin Resort and The Romanos, part of its Luxury Collection. When completed, W Costa Navarino will add 246 rooms, suites and villas, as part of the new Navarino Waterfront. There will be a range of F&B options, including a ‘Culinary Square’ food market, and a beach club and sunset bar. The resort will provide easy access to the four Navarino golf courses, as well as an array of water sports.

More is to come to Costa Navarino: next year, Mandarin Oriental will open its first resort in Greece, with just 99 rooms – including 48 ‘earthsheltered’ villas, built into a hillside overlooking the Bay of Navarino.

COMING SOON

Athens Flair Hotel

Once the home of Greek actress Ellie Lambeti, a listed neoclassical building in Kolonaki designed by a Danish architect in the 1880s, will open as Athens Flair Hotel this summer. It will offer just six suites, each with a distinctive style and colour palette, along with a rooftop terrace. Run by a small Greek hotel group, it will be a block away from a sister property called Sir Athens, a four-suite hotel set in a building on Kaplanon street dating back to 1800. athensflair.com

Neoma Hotel Athens

A third property is set to join Athens Flair and Sir Athens this summer, on Mouson street at the foot of

ATHENS HOTELS

TOP LEFT: Kubic Athens Hotel will become Kubic House, Urban Oasis by Brown Hotels

TOP RIGHT: A room at Neoma Hotel; An artist’s impression of Athens Flair Hotel, opening this summer

CENTRE: A view of Grand Hyatt Athens

Filopappou Hill, southwest of the Acropolis. Deriving its name from the Greek word for ‘new moon’ or ‘pleasantness’, Neoma Hotel Athens will have 16 elegantly pared-back rooms and suites, dressed in a neutral mix of warm wood and shades of white. The rooftop bar and pool will have views of the Acropolis. neomahotel.com

Brown Hotels

Brown Hotels will keep expanding its footprint in Athens over the coming months with at least another three hotels. More details are to follow, but they will include a hotel called Brown Spices and Theodor Athens – sibling to Theodor Tel Aviv, which is a 34-room ‘Bauhaus-themed’ hotel in a listed building at the western end of the city’s Rothschild Boulevard.

In addition, the existing Kubic Athens Hotel will turn into Kubic House, Urban Oasis by Brown Hotels. Next to the city’s National Theatre, the eight-floor hotel has 122 rooms, which are being turned into a ‘thrilling jungle’, including wallpaper with birdlife and foliage, and colourful tiling in the bathrooms.

Beyond its plans for Greece, Brown Hotels is setting its sights on the rest of Europe with properties to come to Germany and the UK. brownhotels.com

Grand Hyatt Athens

Having opened in 2018, Grand Hyatt Athens will complete construction on a substantial expansion of its hotel on Syngrou Avenue this summer. An additional 227 rooms and suites –23 of which will have a plunge pool or private pool – takes total room count to 548 across nearly an entire city block. Club rooms and suites come with access to the hotel’s Grand Club lounge. The hotel will have four pools: one indoor, one outdoor in the courtyard, one on the roof of the original hotel, and one on the roof of the new extension.

New this summer as well is the

first outpost of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection in Greece – and ninth in Europe – with the opening of Magma Resort Santorini. On the northeast side of the island in Vourvoulos, its architecture incorporates black volcanic stone and takes inspiration from local traditional dwellings called pezoules. There are just 35 rooms and 24 suites, the majority of which offer private pools and hot tubs. Further Unbound hotels are coming to Helsinki, Mijas (Spain) and Crans Montana (Switzerland). hyatt.com

Anda Hotel Athens, Radisson Individuals

Due to open in August, Anda Hotel Athens will be located on Voukourestiou street in Kolonaki – under the Radisson Individuals ‘affiliation’ brand of Radisson Hotel Group. Greek-Swedish architect firm OOAK is transforming the existing 1960s building into a 24-room hotel with restaurant, bar, and ‘unique outdoor fitness centre’.

In the second half of 2023, the group plans to expand its presence further with Radisson Red Mitropoleos Square Athens, converting an office building into a hotel under its ‘playful upscale’ brand. It will feature 94 small apartments with kitchenettes, along with a rooftop bar and restaurant. With these two openings, Radisson will have three hotels in Athens – there is a 160-room Radisson Blu hotel on the edge of Pedion tou Areos, one of the city’s largest parks.

Additional properties arrived in the past year on Santorini (Radisson Blu Zaffron, in Kamari, with 103 rooms, suites and villas) and Mykonos (Radisson Blu Euphoria, with 34 rooms and suites). This summer, an 84-room Radisson resort will also open on Skiathos, part of the Northern Sporades islands between Athens and Thessaloniki. radissonhotels.com

One and Only Aesthesis

Promising a ‘bacchanalian celebration of Athens’, One and Only Aesthesis is under development on 21 hectares

of seafront in Glyfada, southeast of the city centre. An opening date is to be confirmed, but plans include 127 rooms, suites, and villas with private pools – including a flagship ‘Villa One’. Drawing on mid-century design, features include natural stone and timber, muted colours and references to Greek mythology. Two signature restaurants, a Chenot Spa, and a fitness centre with indoor and outdoor spaces are also planned.

One and Only is also working on a resort on Kea Island, the closest Cycladic island to Athens – an hour by regular ferry from Lavrio Port, or a ten-minute helicopter ride from the airport. The resort will have 75 villas (as well as a range of

private residences), three restaurants, two bars and an extensive spa.

oneandonlyresorts.com

Conrad Athens

Opened in 1963 as the first major international hotel in the Greek capital, Hilton Athens closed at the start of the year for an extensive €130 million redevelopment.

The 15-storey, Modernist building will emerge as Conrad Athens in 2024. The smaller room count (down from 500+ to 280), will create space for 50 private residences – branded under a mix of Conrad and Waldorf Astoria flags. Facilities will include ‘multiple culinary and entertainment venues’ and a wellness centre.

Conrad Athens will be the brand’s fifth hotel in Europe – there are properties in London and Dublin, along the Portuguese Algarve and, as of April, on Sardinia. The planned Waldorf Astoria Residences will be the first in Europe; the original Waldorf Astoria New York is due to reopen with a large residential component following renovation. conradhotels.com; waldorfastoriacollection.com

Pantelikon Athens, Curio Collection by Hilton

Meanwhile, Hilton will also bring its Curio Collection of independent hotels to Athens in 2024, renovating the existing Pantelikon hotel in Kifisia,

ATHENS HOTELS

an affluent area about 30 minutes north of the city centre. The hotel will have 117 rooms including 13 suites, a restaurant, spa with an indoor pool, and an outdoor pool in the hotel’s garden. curiocollection.com

Hampton by Hilton Piraeus Mikrolimano

In 2024, Hilton will expand further with the opening of an 83-room property in the port city of Piraeus, one of the main hubs for ferry services to the Greek islands. Located in Kastella close to Mikrolimano marina, the Hampton will be a renovation of an existing hotel with an outdoor pool, a fitness centre, and meeting spaces. hamptonbyhilton.com

TOP LEFT:

An artist’s impression of a One and Only Aesthesis suite

TOP RIGHT:

An artist’s impression of the One and Only resort on Kea Island

ABOVE LEFT: The iconic Hilton Athens will reemerge as Conrad Athens

ABOVE RIGHT:

An artist’s impression of W Costa Navarino by Marriott

The Ellinikon

One of Europe’s largest redevelopment projects began at the start of this year on the 620-hectare site of the former Athens international airport, along a 3.5km stretch of coastline southeast of the city. At an anticipated cost of €8 billion, the vast mixed-use site – three times the size of Monaco and largely dormant since the city hosted the 2004 Olympic Games – will be developed in phases over the coming years and is expected to attract one million visitors annually when completed. The project by Lamda Development will include an integrated resort featuring a number of different hotels, including one on the beach and one as part of a 400-berth marina. theellinikon.com.gr

BREATHE EASY

The fundamentals of sustainability revolve around reducing waste, conserving energy, and reducing the wastage or consumption of water. Always re-inventing and innovating, the Indian hospitality industry has tried to weave sustainability and verdant greenery in and around their surroundings, in an e ort to be eco-friendlier, increase their oxygen covers and reduce carbon and water footprints signi cantly.

Luxury hotels in India are working diligently toward integrating sustainable practices into guest services, events and meetings. To tow the bottom line and retain their loyal customers, hotels with strong

sustainability and green cover programs are trying to raise the bar higher each time in their own way, to address guests’ expectations.

Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka is the largest city in southern India. is second fastest-growing vibrant, major metropolis, has inspired several luxury hotel chains to plant more trees and greenery and to be eco-friendly. From energy conservation, waste reduction and recycling, avoiding or banning the usage of plastic, to investing in green energy and water-saving technologies; Bengaluru hotels are going the extra mile for their guests. is story focuses on some of Bengaluru’s luxury hotels that are trying to modify and implement a lusher green cover and processes keeping sustainability in mind. →

Bengaluru’s green and eco-friendly sustainable luxury hotels

WORDS KHURSHEED MISTRY AND GAYATRI THAKKAR

SUSTAINABLE LUXURY HOTELS IN BENGALURU

BENGALURU MARRIOTT HOTEL WHITEFIELD

is 391 keys hotel boasts modern rooms and sustainable practices like the reduction of water footprints, guest room recycling and electric car charging facilities. Business travellers can experience the essence of Bengaluru’s natural beauty while staying at the luxurious Bengaluru Marriott Hotel White eld located in the bustling EPIP area of White eld, Bengaluru. A breathtaking cityscape, idyllic pool views, manicured landscape, 24-hour room service, plush bedding, and marble bathrooms are some of the luxuries which guests enjoy. From sampling delectable cuisines at the choicest hotel restaurants, unwinding in the lounge, swimming in the outdoor pool, sipping on a cocktail at the bar, the 24-hour tness centre or pampering the senses at the plush, full-service hotel spa with rejuvenating treatments; guests are treated like royalty. Whether it is organising meetings or social events complemented by catering and planning services in elegant event spaces, Bengaluru Marriott Hotel White eld ensures an undisputed ve-star experience. marriott.com

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BENGALURU AT EMBASSY ONE

Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru at Embassy One o ers an unparalleled luxury experience in the heart of the Garden City. e sustainable measures involve reducing carbon and water footprints, and deluxe eco-friendly toiletries in their rooms and suites. To reduce the wastage and overpreparation of food, they have live stations for bu ets and pre-portioned à la carte o erings. With its private meeting rooms, spacious indoor and outdoor venues, concierge services and a plethora of additional services, it has never been easier to conduct business meetings or celebrate special occasions in this metropolis. Guests can indulge in a pampering session at the spa, relax by an idyllic poolside, or work out at the tness centre. For a gastronomical trip around the world or to enjoy sundowners while soaking in awe-inspiring views; guests have myriad options to unwind at the end of the day. fourseasons.com

HILTON GARDEN INN BENGALURU EMBASSY MANYATA BUSINESS PARK

Hilton Embassy Manyata Business Park is easily accessible from the Kempegowda International airport and located within close proximity to key destinations in northern and central Bengaluru. e contemporary designed hotel is built mindfully to include several sustainability practices. With a beautiful landscape, energy-e cient smart technology, biodegradable recycled plantbased cups and mugs in all guest rooms, inroom motion, air-condition and light sensors, digital key access and smartphone-connected services, it o ers some of the best sustainable options. e hotel complex also has a compact bottling unit that provides safe drinking water, and a solar energy plant that generates clean energy to run the air-conditioning plant self-su ciently. With world-class amenities and an integrated convention centre which includes a pillar-less grand ballroom, unique venues and the best dining options, Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park is a perfect combination of luxury and sustainability for modern business travellers who are conscious of their carbon footprints. hilton.com

JW MARRIOTT HOTEL

BENGALURU

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru is located a stone’s throw from the verdant Cubbon Park and well-known UB City. e hotel’s sustainable practices involve reducing carbon and water footprints in each room, as well as guest room recycling. A verdant landscape, spacious rooms, plush beddings, marble bathrooms and private balconies, make it a haven of luxury in the heart of the thriving metropolis. Guests can enjoy several relaxing and rejuvenating treatments at Spa by JW, take a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool, or keep up their exercise regime at the well-equipped and modern tness centre. Large meeting spaces and state-of-the-art audio-visual facilities make JW Marriott Bengaluru an ideal location for organising events and special occasions. With an array of award-winning dining spaces and international cuisine o erings, the guest’s dining experience is transformative. Staying at JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru guarantees to be a memorable experience.

SHERATON GRAND BANGALORE HOTEL AT

BRIGADE GATEWAY

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway o ers top-of-line luxury to business travellers. Conveniently located a short distance from the Kempegowda International airport and surrounded by city landmarks, this stylish accommodation includes manicured landscapes, luxury beddings, four- xture bathrooms and breathtaking cityscapes. e sustainability practices involve carbon and water footprint reduction, guest room recycling and electric car charging facilities. When it comes to entertaining business colleagues or enjoying a good meal to whet culinary cravings, there are plenty of options to choose from in an array of renowned restaurants and bars. Classy and spacious event spaces including a pillar-less ballroom, vibrant meeting rooms that host large events or celebrations, an in nity pool, a top-ofline tness centre or natural wellness treatments at the luxurious Shine Spa for Sheraton, are some of the multitudes of ve-star o erings that can be enjoyed during the stay there.

marriott.com

TAJ WEST END, BENGALURU

Taj West End, Bengaluru is dedicated to conserving and protecting the environment. Battery-operated cars within the premises, locally sourced produce for dining, eco-friendly spa products, transplantation of trees and rainwater harvesting techniques are some of its sustainability practices.

A plush green sanctuary with an illustrious heritage ensconced amidst verdant fauna, it embodies the Garden City to perfection. Spacious rooms and suites are a perfect amalgamation of old-world charm and modern-day amenities; elegant and rich interiors, polished teak oors, well-designed large sunlit spaces, and large private verandahs that envelop guests in opulence. is majestic hotel is renowned for its superlative ne dining and world cuisine experiences. Eight regal banqueting venues lend an allure to corporate and social events. In-room dining, personalised butler services, taking the heritage walk, lounging by the pool or unwinding at Jiva Grande Spa- within these tranquil surroundings, it is easy to forget that the hotel is in the heart of the city. tajhotels.com

THE OBEROI, BENGALURU

e Oberoi, Bengaluru is the epitome of opulence and has the perfect fusion of oldworld charm and avant-gardism. It replicates the dual personalities of Bengaluru, as being the Garden City and the technology hub. e Oberoi Bengaluru maintains stringent standards of sustainability, by treating the three-acre manicured garden grounds with recycled water and using wind energy as a power source to minimise the hotel’s carbon footprint. From eco-friendly, organic toiletries, and spa products to smart technology, e Oberoi Bengaluru is conscious of preserving the environment. Plush rooms and suites with private balconies, scenic garden views, state-of-the-art meeting rooms, large and expansive banqueting facilities, a plethora of award-winning ne dining restaurants, and relaxation therapies at the spa are some of what make the hotel succeed in balancing environmental responsibilities with luxurious elegance. oberoihotels.com BTI

Grape to Glass

Everyone remembers their rst sip of alcohol, either fuelled by teenage rebellion or extreme curiosity, the rst sip always makes you squirm. A er my rst sip, I simply couldn’t understand why the world around me cherished these potent beverages so much. However, that changed drastically a er my rst glass of rosé. Nothing is more beautiful than the dewy pink zzy liquid in a tall, crystal clear glass. It very quickly became my favourite type of wine and

my go-to beverage order in almost all my culinary/bar experiences. I nally understood the love for alcoholic drinks and its enchanting charm. Safe to say when I was invited by Chandon India to Dindori, Nashik for a day to explore their winery, I was ecstatic!

A er soaking in the scenic views on my journey to the winery, I was greeted by an enthusiastic man, Kaushal Khairnar, upon my arrival. Kaushal is the head winemaker at Chandon India and is the kind of person who exudes joyful passion

WORDS ANITHYA BALACHANDRAN

Exploring the Chandon Winery in Dindori, Nashik

for his profession. He took us on an insightful tour of the winery, speaking about the different varieties of grapes, the intricacies of the winemaking process and how essential certain elements are in the production of high quality wine.

“Moët Hennessy set foot in India in the year 2013, with the inauguration of the Chandon winery at Dindori, Nashik, advancing the vision of Robert Jean de Vogüé, Director, Moët & Chandon Champagne House, from 1930-1972, who speculated that wine growing regions outside the Champagne region of France also held great promise to fabricate highquality sparkling wines. It has been successful in introducing Chandon to new consumers while simultaneously engaging a growing audience of wine connoisseurs across the nation” shares Kaushal.

As we delve into the process of winemaking, standing amongst larger than life metal wine vats I ask him to shed some light on what Chandon India does differently in comparison to its competitors. “While we share the same techniques across the world, our six houses produce a range of different styles of sparkling wine due to the varying climates and grape varieties available locally. There is an ecosystem of demand and production - it’s even part of the definition of terroir. It’s not only physical - the subsoil, the climate - it’s cultural, too. We also make wines in an internationally recognized style, but the key to our winemaking is in the local elements that we safeguard.

All our wines are fresh and fruity, with just enough complexity and acidity. They’re approachable and easy to drink. At Chandon India, sustainability is central to how we grow our grapes – we focus on the environment and social good practices. This is done by using

natural organic fertiliser to keep our soils healthy, drip irrigation, sourcing water from the ground storage that is also recycled and using solar panels as a source of energy” he says.

“The modern Indian wine market is a growing industry, with the perception of wine being a “feminine” drink, fast-changing. The bulk of India’s wine consumption transpires in metropolitan cities. The city with the highest wine consumption is Mumbai, closely followed by Delhi NCR and Gurugram. The love for wine expands beyond megacities and is also present and growing in markets such as Bangalore, Goa and Pune” Kaushal adds.

As my day at the maison was nearing its end, I was inspired to learn more about the world of my favourite drink. For a long time, I had not appreciated the difference in the quality of the various rosés and sparkling wines I had consumed but my time at the winery truly enlightened me about the emerging demand for wine in India and what a key role the process of winemaking plays in the quality of the wine.

THE MOST LUXURIOUS EVs IN INDIA

Believe it or not, the electric car is not an invention of modern times; electric cars have been around since the 1800s and were more popular than combustion engine cars in the late 19th century. e scenario changed with the arrival of Ford’s cost-e cient assembly line and the wider availability of fossil fuel, which ultimately pushed electric cars into oblivion. But it was an American upstart that brought attention back to battery-powered cars and their bene ts a century later. A little more than a decade ago, Tesla a tiny California-based company helmed by an eccentric genius turned into a juggernaut that changed the entire landscape of the automobile industry with the launch of the Model S all-electric luxury sedan

and singlehandedly started the electric car revolution across the globe.

While India continues to await the arrival of the celebrated electric car manufacturer, other major automobile brands have rushed in to seize the opportunity by o ering compelling options to buyers who are shopping in the luxury EV segment. India has had a relatively slow start when it comes to transitioning to electric cars, but things are beginning to change rapidly. German manufacturer Mercedes-Benz in continuing with its tradition as a pioneer, became the rst company to launch a luxury EV in India when it introduced the EQC electric SUV two years ago. Since then, some of the most popular premium-branded luxury EVs have already arrived in India. Here are ve of the best luxury EVs on sale in India currently.

The luxury EV segment

WORDS DHIRAM SHAH

AUDI E-TRON

Audi e-tron SUV is the rst German automaker’s rst-ever mass-produced battery-electric car that was showcased as a concept at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. e production model debuted globally in 2018 and arrived in India in 2021 along with its sports back variant. e luxury electric SUV is currently available in two trim levels: 50 Quattro and 55 Quattro. In terms of design, the e-tron SUV’s styling doesn’t deviate much from Audi’s traditional SUVs and is in line with the automaker’s latest design language. e theme continues on the inside with the cabin featuring a familiar design and layout.

In terms of specs, the 50 Quattro gets electric motors on both axels that produce a combined 313hp and 540Nm. It has a 71kW battery that o ers a combined WLTP range of 264-379 km. e more powerful 55 Quattro variant’s dual motor setup develops 408hp and 664Nm. With its larger 95kWh battery pack, the range-topper has a claimed WLTP range of between 359-484 km. Although, Audi extended its range by another 20km with an over-the-air (OTA) update.

Powertrain – Dual motor with a combined output of 408hp and 664Nm of torque Range – 484km 0 to 100km/h – 5.7 seconds

Top speed – limited to 200km/h Price – ` 99.99 lakh (ex-showroom)

BMW I4

e BMW i4 battery-electric sedan is the production variant of the BMW i Vision Dynamics that debuted at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show. e fourdoor coupé was launched internationally a year ago as the h BMW i sub-brand model and joined the Bavarian manufacturer’s India line-up in May this year. e i4 is signi cantly cheaper than the brand’s agship iX electric SUV, is based on the manufacturer’s CLAR architecture and is more of an all-electric version of the regular 4 Series Gran Coupe. In fact, the design of the electric sedan is very similar to the 4 Series Gran Coupe. BMW has added plenty of styling elements to the i4 to make it stand out, which include blue accents, aero wheels, and a redesigned version of the iconic BMW kidney grille.

e i4 is available in a higher-spec M50 xDrive variant globally that’s being touted as the electric M3. However, only the i4 eDrive 40 is available in India which is powered by a rear axle-mounted electric motor that produces 340hp and 430Nm. e electric sedan gets an 83.9 kWh battery pack mounted on the oor which o ers a claimed range of 590km, the highest among all EVs in India.

Powertrain – single electric motors with 340hp and 430Nm of torque Range – 590km 0 to 100km/h – 5.7 seconds

Top speed – limited to 190km/h Price - ` 69.90 lakh (ex-showroom)

JAGUAR I-PACE

Iconic British automaker surprised everyone earlier this year when it announced it will be all-electric by 2025, but it all started with the I-Pace which was introduced in 2018 as the brand’s rst-ever mass-produced all-electric car. A er several delays, the I-Pace has launched in India in 2021. Designed by legendary British automobile designer Ian Callum, the Jaguar I-Pace is widely considered one of the best-looking EVs on sale currently. In fact, the I-Pace has won 62 international awards, including the prestigious European Car of the Year award in 2019. e crossover SUV features a squat stance, which along with its muscular lines and bulbous fenders gives the I-Pace a sporty and butch appearance. e I-Pace is built by contract manufacturer Magna Steyr in Austria and features technology derived from the Jaguar I-Type electric formula E racing car. It is powered by two electric motors that produce a combined 400hp and 696Nm of torque, which is enough to propel the 2.2-tonne SUV to 100km/h from a dead stop in just 4.8 seconds. e motors draw power from a 90kWh battery that is capable of o ering a 470km WLTP-rated range on a single charge.

Powertrain – twin electric motors with a combined output of 400hp and 696Nm of torque Range – 470km 0 to 100km/h – 4.8 seconds Top speed – limited to 200km/h Price - ` 1.06 crore (ex-showroom)

MERCEDES-BENZ EQC

Showcased as a concept at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, the Mercedes-Benz EQC nally entered production three years later to become the rst member of the EQ family of battery electric by the German automaker. Subsequently, it became the rst all-electric luxury car to go on sale in India when it was launched in the country in 2020. Although the compact battery-electric crossover is based on the Mercedes-Benz GLC instead of being underpinned by a dedicated EV platform, it features the EQ family’s distinct design language characterized by its rounded, slippery shape and the signature frontend styling. But unlike other EQ models, the EQC has a front grille like its combustion-engine counterpart. In typical Mercedes fashion, the cabin is bathed in luxurious materials and the design strikes a perfect balance between familiar styling and future-forward elements. e electric SUV’s powertrain features two asynchronous motors, one on each axle to o er all-wheel drive. e pair of motors have a combined output of 408hp and 765Nm of torque, which is more than the twin-turbo V6-powered MercedesAMG GLC43. e EQC has a big 85kWh lithium-ion battery pack, thanks to which the compact SUV o ers a claimed range of upwards of 450km. Despite its steep pricing, Mercedes was able to sell the rst batch in India in no time.

Powertrain – Two asynchronous motors with a combined output of 408hp and 765Nm of torque Range – 450km 0 to 100km/h – 5.1 seconds Top speed – limited to 180km/h Price - ` 99.30 lakh (ex-showroom)

RECHARGE

e Volvo XC40 Recharge, as the name suggests, is a full-electric version of the Swedish automaker’s gorgeous XC40 compact crossover. Launched internationally in 2019 as Volvo’s rst-ever mass-produced EV, the XC40 Recharge nally arrived on Indian shores a few months back. Interestingly, the Volvo EV is the rst luxury electric vehicle to be assembled in India. Volvo has been able to launch the model at a very attractive price point in the country, since it is locally assembled and undercuts its nearest rivals by a signi cant margin.

In terms of design, the XC40 Recharge looks near identical to its combustion engine counterpart both inside and outside, except for a few things such as bigger wheels and a blanked-out front grille. e EV features a 78kWh battery capable of 150kW DC fast charging and o ers a claimed range of 418km on the WLTP cycle. It is powered by two electric motors, one on each axle, capable of producing 408hp and 660Nm of torque, which makes it twice as powerful as the petrol-

powered XC40 available in India. e Volvo XC40 Recharge is already sold out for 2022 in India.

Powertrain – twin electric motors with a combined output of 408hp and 660Nm of torque Range – 418km 0 to 100km/h – 4.9 seconds

Top speed – limited to 180km/h Price - ` 55.90 lakh (ex-showroom)

In terms of electric vehicles, India is still behind compared to other nations. However, the EV industry and the market for electric vehicles in the country are starting to grow exponentially. Sensing the opportunity, many luxury carmakers are making a beeline to launch their latest EV models in India. In less than two years since the launch of the rst luxury EV in the country, the number of options has increased in a short period and a stellar growth is expected to continue with people slowly opening up to environmentfriendly motoring. BTI

Bavarian

Indulgence

When I think of an idyllic holiday I would say the getaway needs to consist of these three elements- retail, art and culture.

WORDS ANITHYA BALACHANDRAN

ARTS AND CULTURE GALORE MUNICH RESIDENCE MUSEUM

Situated in the centre of the city and touted to be the largest inner-city palace in Germany, the palatial structure Munich Residence is home to the Residence Museum. e museum rst opened its doors to the public in 1920. Since then, it has gained prominence and is now one of the most important palace museums in Europe. e expansive building is a monument in stone that pays tributes to its patrons, the rulers from the House of Wittelsbach, who governed Bavaria rst as dukes, from the 17th century onwards as electors and from 1806 to 1918 as kings. When exploring, visitors can observe the changing forms of princely self-representation across the di erent ages of humanism, counter-reformation, the enlightenment, the divine right of kings and constitutional monarchy. e museum is particularly awe-inspiring because of the regal opulence it exudes which is a credit to the exquisite decoration of the rooms. All the furniture, paintings, tapestries, treasures and religious devotional items are largely still in the place as how it was when it was originally built and decorated. e artistic and historical signi cance of rooms and their furnishings gives you an interesting insight into the past of the Bavarian capital and the function of the Residence as the main residence and seat of the government and its rulers.

ALTE PINAKOTHEK

Located in the Kunstareal area in Munich, known to be the museum quarter in the city centre, the Alte Pinakothek is an art gallery and is one of the oldest galleries in the world. e name Alte (Old) Pinakothek refers to the time period covered by the collection which spans from the 14th to the 18th century. e art gallery presents over 700 works of European paintings, including one of the largest collections of paintings by Albrecht Dürer and Peter Paul Rubens. e outstanding painters of varying genres are represented through their numerous works. e gallery features works of artists such as Rogier van der Weyden, Hans Memling, Albrecht Altdorfer, Lucas Cranach the Elder, Jan Brueghel the Elder and van Dyck, Rembrandt, Frans Hals, Poussin and Murillo. e rich artistic treasures of the Wittelsbach family form the core of the gallery’s collection. e Alte Pinakothek, commissioned by Ludwig the rst of Bavaria, was opened in 1836. e architect Leo von Klenze designed a groundbreaking museum building whose large halls are illuminated by natural skylights. e Alte Pinakothek was considerably destroyed during the Second World War, and due to the saving e orts of Hans Döllgast in the 1950s it was reconstructed and was able to regain its exemplary architecture.

The name Alte (Old) Pinakothek refers to the time period covered by the collection which spans from the 14th to the 18th century

ST. PETER’S CHURCH

e incredible Gothic structure looming over the Bavarian city consists of many exciting elements, including a bejewelled skeleton, that make this church a memorable experience! St. Peter’s Church is the oldest recorded church in Munich. From its founding in 1180, the church has a tumultuous history that has arguably added to its character and extravagance. Also known as the Peterskirche, it was rebuilt in 1368 following a re, and then again a er it was almost completely destroyed in the Second World War. Reconstruction took an arduously long time to nish and was completed in 2000. Due to the age of the church, many architectural in uences over the years have been incorporated from di erent eras. For example, in the 17th and 18th centuries, the interior of the Peterskirche was introduced to some new Baroque and Rococo features. Now, the most morbid element of the church is at the side-altar, where the remains of St. Munditia are kept. e Christian martyr’s remains have been kept for more than a century and were moved from Rome to Munich in 1675. Her skeletal remains are adorned with gold and precious jewels. However, this not the reason that most people love the church. e most popular feature of the church is the great bird’s eye view over Munich that you are treated to as you climb the church’s tower. My only word of advice to you is to wear comfortable shoes whilst attempting to scale the tower, since there are around 300 steps to the top. On a clear day, the view extends all the way to the snow capped Alps and it truly takes your breath away.

The church has a tumultuous history that has arguably added to its character and extravagance.

RETAIL THERAPY OUTLETCITY METZINGEN

Situated 173 kilometres away from Munich, this outlet is truly where you will be tempted to shop till you drop. Famously known as the Mecca of brands, the designer outlet is home to over 150 premium and luxury brands including brands such as Burberry, Fendi, Gucci, Michael Kors, Nike, Prada, Ralph Lauren and many more. e true-to-the-original interiors of the various agship outlet stores give Metzingen the tag as a city of fashion for guests from all around the world. e journey from Munich to the outlet makes for a refreshing retail driven get away from the city.

MAXIMILIANSTRASSE

If you are looking to stroll down a fancy boulevard whilst window shopping some of the most exquisite brands in the world, look no further than the Maximilianstrasse. Known as Munich’s most expensive avenue, almost all international luxury labels of the fashion and jewellery industry are represented here. e avenue came into existence in the 19th century when King Maximilian the second had the street built by his architect Georg Friedrich Christian Bürklein in the unique Maximilian style, combining elements of various stylistic epochs such as Neo-Gothic and Renaissance. e architecturally

The architecturally impressive ambience of the luxury mile will transport you to an era gone by

DESTINATIONS

impressive ambience of the luxury mile will transport you to an era gone by where luxury was in abundance.

VICTUALS MARKET

e Victuals Market is the best way to discover authentic food and beverages. An evolved version of a farmer’s market, the market is only a few steps away from the Marienplatz. ere are around 140 stalls and shops o ering owers, plants, fruits, vegetables, di erent kinds of meat, wine and beers. e open-air market will allow you experience the local culture in its most original form. Up to the early 19th century, the people of Munich would go to the neighbouring Marienplatz to purchase their supplies of grain, fruit and vegetables, sh and eggs. At that point, however, the size of the market began to burst at the seams; so, in 1807, King Max I Joseph commanded that the area between Heiliggeist Church and Frauenstrasse be used to sell produce.

WHERE TO STAY

THE WESTIN GRAND MUNICH

A popular choice with many that visit Munich, the luxury property is situated in Munich’s Bogenhausen district, around the corner from the English Garden, one of the largest inner-city parks and a stone’s throw away from the city centre by subway. If you are looking to treat yourself to some well deserved extravagance, book the Sky suite that comes with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a walk-in closet, a dining and a living area as well as a separate kitchen. e dining o erings include Paulaner’s Wirtshaus and Beer Garden for Bavarian cuisine; Greenhouse Restaurant and Eventlocation for healthy breakfast options and e Drop - Botanical Bar and Eatery for homemade pastries, co ees, healthy bowls, cocktails and juices. ere are 21 meeting rooms for up to 1,050 people as well as various spacious foyers. marriott.com

ANDAZ MUNICH SCHWABINGER TOR

Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor, near the English Garden is ideal for design lovers. One can revel in scenic views of the Olympic Park from the hotel’s luxurious spa and Munich’s highest roo op bar, M’Uniqo Roo op Bar. You can choose from one of their 277 thoughtfully-styled residential guest rooms for your stay in the city. A meal at the Lonely Broccoli and Terrace is a must! As Munich’s rst Modern Meat House, the Bavarian culture meets the avours of the Alps at this establishment. One of the key highlights of this property is that it is pet friendly. If you wish to travel with your furry friend, the hotel will accommodate you and your pet and have a special service in place for guests with pets. hyatt.com

HOTEL BAYERISCHER HOF

Situated in the heart of Munich’s historic centre, this grandiose hotel boasts of 337 luxurious rooms, 74 suites, ve restaurants, six bars, 40 function rooms and much more. One of the highlights of the property is Atelier with Silent Garden, the two Michelin-starred restaurant which is renowned for its exquisite seasonal creations. e historic ve-star hotel features a blend of original designs, ranging from cosmopolitan to colonial style. One can unwind in the hotel’s exclusive Blue Spa which o ers a spacious sauna area, a gym with scenic city views, and a beauty salon. Furthermore, the unique Cinema Lounge is ideal for company presentations or private celebrations. e hotel is just a ve minute walk from sights such as the Bavarian State Opera and the Hofbräuhaus Beer Hall. bayerischerhof.de

DESTINATIONS

THE CHARLES HOTEL, MUNICH

Nestled in the verdant Lenbachgärten quarter and close to the historic Königsplatz, the elegant Charles Hotel in Munich is a melange of contemporary style and traditional Bavarian hospitality. Immerse yourself in a world of luxury by opting to stay in the Forte Suite. e lavish Forte Suite is one of the grandest residences o ered by the hotel. e quaint private terrace is the perfect place to take in the evening air where you can enjoy a glass of your favourite beverage from the private in-suite Apéro Bar. e suite spans over 145 sqm and can accommodate up to four adults. roccofortehotels.com BTI

What you need to know before travelling with your dog

Travelling with your dog may not be as easy as it seems, nor as daunting. One would hope you could just give your pet a cushion and have them sleep it out, but it takes a lot more to ensure their comfort and safety. Before taking your dog on a long journey, first, try to ascertain if your dog is prone to motion sickness. Take your dog on short drives and keep the windows up and air-conditioning on. If the dog is uncomfortable, try rolling down the windows to a safe level and see if it makes a difference to your dog’s comfort. This quick check will help you be better prepared before you start on a long journey with them. Here are some tips to keep in mind when setting off on your journey.

WHILE TRAVELLING

It is preferable to start with smaller trips to get your dog accustomed to a car journey. Don’t feed your dog a heavy meal just before travelling, as it can induce nausea. It is essential to carry a first aid kit, wet wipes, dog poop bags and toys. Help your dog stay calm; you can do that by giving an antianxiety natural supplement like Bark Out Loud, an hour before the journey. Make sure you have enough food and plenty of

drinking water handy. When setting off on a journey, remember to carry two small bowls (preferably with a lid to avoid spillage) for food and water. If your dog is used to a daily diet of fresh food, for the journey, it would be preferable to feed them very small quantities of kibble instead, which will help to settle their stomach and keep the food down. It is also a good idea to keep some treats handy to lift your dog’s spirits throughout the journey! Lay down a soft blanket to make a comfortable space for your dog through the journey. If the airconditioner is switched on in the car, your

DIRECTOR, VIVALDIS ANIMAL HEALTH

pet will need to be hydrated more frequently. Watch for signs of your dog panting heavily even if the temperature in the car is cool and pleasant; it could either mean the dog is dehydrated and wants some water or you may need to make the temperature cooler in the car. Stop every few hours for a break and a short stroll so that your dog can relieve himself and stretch his paws. Avoid keeping the leash on if possible in the car, but make sure the dog is wearing a collar with a name tag and phone number during the entire journey. When you halt, make sure you secure the dog properly with a leash before allowing him to jump out of the car. Another thing that helps your dog stay engaged and calm is a chew toy.

WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT THE DESTINATION

Start off by giving your dog a tour, and introducing them to the new place. A long journey can be tiring, so give them enough rest when you reach your destination. Keep a freshly cleaned water bowl with room temperature water near them and try to keep them as cool as possible. Arrange for a fresh meal for him, after the dog has rested. To enjoy a holiday with your pet, it is as important for you to be relaxed and rested, so that your dog is too.

To enjoy a holiday with your pet, it is as important for you to be relaxed and rested, so that your dog is too

In case it’s your first time, start with smaller trips to get your dog accustomed to a car journey

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Changing

How Hotels Are

to It’

Over the last two years we all have experienced a massive shift in our consumption patterns. The volume of change experienced by businesses has accelerated and stirred into overdrive. We all have read and researched extensively on the evolving consumer behaviour where concerns on health and hygiene, spending patterns and digital advancements have taken precedence. As hospitality brands, we are a manifestation of what our consumer wants. Consumption for us is not habitual but contextual and we need to be extremely mindful about the same.

Business travel has witnessed a big bang return. We are currently running at 90 per cent of pre-covid occupancies. Understanding and responding to consumers’ changing behaviours will be essential to the recovery of the hospitality sector. Organisations will need to reimagine the customer experience and re-engage with customers to build and maintain their trust. We’ve boiled down to a few exhibits that we believe are at the core of this shift.

Flight to online - The pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital technologies as small and large businesses in nearly every sector looked for ways to keep their business running. Consumer intent to shop online continues to increase, especially in the essentials and home-entertainment categories. More interestingly, these habits seem like they’re going to stick as the intent to shop online even much after the Covid-19 crisis will continue to stay. Hospitality brands have had to jump onto this

bandwagon and re-align their operating models, digital advancements and strategies to be more competitive. Hotels who have always been traditional in their method of operating have now incorporated new technologies such as self-check-ins and check-outs, contactless payments, digital/QR Code based menus and other app-based services that are a priority for travellers while selecting their choice of stay.

Millennials and high-income earners are in the lead when it comes to shopping online. While the shift to online shopping has been near universal across categories, high-income earners and millennials are leading the way in shifting spending on luxury experiences and destinations. Hospitality brands have taken a cue from this behaviour and carved out experiences to satiate their ever-evolving sensitivities and preferences. We at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar have learnt that the

KUNAL CHAUHAN, GENERAL MANAGER, JW MARRIOTT MUMBAI SAHAR

traditional business hotel is not only busy Monday to Thursday, but weekends bring in a lot of leisure travellers. It is also observed that business travellers are looking at extending their business stay or seeking experiences to combine business and leisure, so-called “Bleisure”. Demands and expectations are on an upswing and to maintain our position as a leading luxury business hotel we have curated mindful experiences to help them to be fully present, foster connections and revitalise the mind, body and spirit. As the focus for most business travellers has shifted towards maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle, it has led to the birth of the homebody economy. Working from home has given people the opportunity to spend quality time at home, travel less, eat healthy and workout regularly. Investment in at-home fitness equipment, online delivery takeaway orders and increased consumption of online content is what consumers are now spending on and brands need to ensure the end-to-end journey meets the new hygiene and at-home needs.

As hospitality brands envisage the changes in consumer behaviour, they will need to re-align and rewind their strategies to adapt to the new norms by adjusting their spends on what the consumer wants i.e. increase in digital/online accessibility, new hygiene standards, social corporate responsibility, luxury and personalised experiences. Today, personalization is the heart of great experiences and to deliver this one requires detailed data and hence the implementation of an efficient system.

.

Demands and expectations are on an upswing and to maintain our position as a leading luxury business hotel we have curated mindful experiences

‘The

Habits of the Frequent Business Traveller and

Adapting

As hospitality brands, we are a manifestation of what our consumer wants

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How hospitality has changed post the pandemic

PRATITI RAJPAL DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AT HYATT REGENCY DEHRADUN

Hospitality is multidimensional – it not only encompasses restaurants, hotels, casinos, amusement parks, events, cruises, entertainment, and other tourism-related services but also wellbeing, customer service, employee engagement and more.

Post the pandemic, the role of hospitality (read hotels) has transformed tremendously. There has been a big shift towards experiences. Experiences not only for the external guests and audiences but also for our internal guests – the associates. Hotels are now looking to deliver unique, locally inspired experiences, become more sustainable in their daily operations , introduce wellbeing as a way of life practices, introduce new employee engagement, retention tactics and overall try to recreate the wow factor.

The pandemic was especially hard for travel and tourism but now with the revival in full swing – both guests as well as service providers (hotels) are inclined towards curated experiences to make up for the lost time with loved ones and to catch up on their pending travel.

During the pandemic, almost everyone was an experimental chef or a mixologist, and that has transformed into a hobby and passion for many – who seek unique F&B experiences and local gems, during their travels.

Few key insights from Hyatt Regency Dehradun, since we launched end of March 2022 have been the following:

There is a large inclination towards drive-cations with guests preferring to drive down from Delhi NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Rajasthan. The scenic highway and infrastructure has enabled this to become a key segment. Family friendly vacations are the way forward. More and more families prefer destinations and hotels that offer a variety of onsite and offsite experiences for the entire family. Camp Hyatt – the unique recreation venue at Hyatt Regency Dehradun has been designed to cater to these audiences – with thoughtfully planned activities for all

age groups from toddlers to adults.

Exploring the locale through guided experiences has become a trend with couples and families as well, since more people are seeking immersive local experiences in order to make the most of their travels. We have designed various experiences through our knowledgeable concierge team at Hyatt Regency Dehradun – to ensure every guest has something of their interest to pursue. The experiences range from food walks to treks, picnic experiences to local artisan workshops to sightseeing and more.

Food continues to be the crucial element of any vacation – with a welcome shift towards guests becoming more experimental towards local ingredients and regional recipes. The variety of F&B venues we offer at Hyatt Regency works well to enable guests to enjoy various internal and regional recipes during their stay, without leaving the hotel.

While the above customer trends will evolve further and help revive the hospitality industry – the opportunity is to find, train and retain talent because our industry is a people’s industry which cannot sustain without committed and passionate professionals. We need to take some bold decisions to revive the glamour of hospitality as a career, only then can we consistently deliver authentic experiences with genuine smiles.

The increased emphasis on safety and celebration of the return to travel is resulting in travellers attaching an increased value to

We need to take some bold decisions to revive the glamour of hospitality as a career, only then can we consistently deliver authentic experiences

eport

BACKGROUND

opened in 2018, and is the second property to be established by the Hilton group in India. The hotel rises 24 storeys above the city’s central business district, and boasts fantastic views of Ulsoor Lake.

WHAT’S IT LIKE Conrad Bengaluru welcomes its guests with its stylish and comfort-driven environment. The hotel’s spectacular high-rise glass facade makes it di icult to miss, even in Bengaluru’s bustling cityscape. The hotel caters to the wants and needs of every traveller, with exceptional dining options, great service, and well-furnished event spaces.

WHERE IS IT Nestled in the heart of the Central Business District, Conrad Bengaluru is at a prime location, a short distance from the city centre. The hotel is in close proximity to the business, art, and entertainment hubs of the city, right from the Embassy Golf Links Business Park, Bagmane Tech Park, Cubbon Park, to Bengaluru Palace and Commercial Street.

ROOMS The hotel o ers 285 rooms and suites, each with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame spectacular views of Ulsoor Lake. The hotel o ers a variety of options to stay, with 15 Executive Suites, five Deluxe Suites, 43 Executive Rooms, and one Presidential Suite, among others. The Executive rooms and suites o er exclusive access to the lounge and include amenities like bu et breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails.

Conrad Bengaluru

panoramic views of the lake. Each room of the suite, including the bathroom, had an HD LED TV set installed. Other amenities included an in-room safe, a tea and co ee maker, and a walk-in shower with a bath tub.

FOOD AND DRINK Conrad Bengaluru is the home of five dining locales, with each o ering its signature cuisine. Guests can take their taste buds on a gastronomic journey through Asia, Italy, and the Americas at Carraway Kitchen, the hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant. Indian Durbar provides a taste of the royal treatment with exotic curries and tandoor specialties on the backdrop of intricate jali work decor.

I had a simple but satisfying breakfast at the Club Lounge, which consisted of avocado on sourdough bread, a glass of freshly-squeezed orange juice, and a cup of cappuccino. In the evening, I sipped on a glass of red wine accompanied with delicious starters at the lounge. On the first night, I had dinner at Mikusu, the hotel’s Pan-Asian restaurant. Restaurant Tiamo was, in my opinion, one of the best rooftop restaurants I have ever visited. Dining on Mediterranean fare under the open skies provided a soothing ambience in the balmy evenings.

MEETINGS:

With a pillar-free Grand Ballroom, a junior ballroom, a private foyer, six meeting

BEST FOR Panoramic views of Ulsoor Lake

DON’T MISS

Authentic Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisine at Mikusu

PRICE

Upwards of ₹12,000 for a King Deluxe Room

CONTACT

Conrad Bengaluru, 25/3, Kensington Rd, Halasuru, Someshwarpura, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560008; hilton.com

Nestled in the heart of the Central Business District, Conrad Bengaluru is at a prime location

rooms, and a boardroom, the Conrad Bengaluru is well-equipped to conduct lavish events and meetings over 1969 sqm space, all upon the backdrop of the Ulsoor Lake. The hotel’s professional planners assist in selecting themes, decor, and catering menus for the events. The hotel is up-to-date with modern A/V technology to provide a seamless meeting experience.

LEISURE:

The hotel’s Conrad Spa is ideal for unwinding after a long day. The spa has five treatment rooms, including one for couples’ massages, along with a sauna, and steam facilities. Take a dip in the outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pool, or grab a quick workout at the hotel’s 24 hour fitness centre.

VERDICT:

With a well-connected location, extensive F&B outlets, good service, tasteful decor, and well-equipped meeting rooms, the Conrad Bengaluru blends luxury with utility to cater to the needs of business and leisure travellers.

Ravi Lalwani

Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa, Nashik

BEST FOR its views

DON’T MISS

A meal at The Tuscan Room

PRICE

Internet rates are upwards of ₹5490

CONTACT

289/2 Pathardi Phata, Nashik, Maharashtra, 422010, India radissonhotels.com

BACKGROUND The Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa, Nashik is located at the gateway into Nashik city and is a stone's throw away from the Mumbai Nashik highway. The luxury property features 224 elegantly designed rooms, including 18 suites with private balconies. Furthermore, there is over 4,500 sqm of versatile event space which makes it ideal for a wide range of meetings and events amidst a scenic location.

WHAT’S IT LIKE As you enter the lobby you are transported into a world of opulence as the art deco inspired interiors exude an aura of luxury. However, there is also a certain feeling of warmth that encapsulates the "home away from home" feeling well. The hotel boasts of unparalleled views of the lush green mountains and untouched scenery.

WHERE IS IT The hotel is a 30 minute drive from Nashik airport and a two and a half hour drive from Mumbai. This well designed, urban resort is also in close proximity to key cities such as Pune and Surat as it is approximately a five hour drive from both cities.

ROOMS I stayed in the Deluxe Room which overlooked the scenic mountain range. The room was well-appointed and my favourite feature in particular was the

As you enter the lobby you are transported into a world of opulence as the art deco inspired interiors exude an aura of luxury

desk which allowed me to work comfortably from my room. There are five categories of rooms ranging from the Superior Room with Hill View to the Premium Suite. The design and décor of the rooms represent understated elegance and bespoke luxury which is inspired by regional influences.

FOOD AND DRINK There are a vast range of culinary experiences available at the Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa, Nashik. Their F & B o erings range from The Smoked Vine, which features a bold variety of cuisines from around the world, including Asian woks, Robatayaki grills, Vinewood fired pizzas, Western and Indian cuisine, to The Tuscan Room. The Tuscan Room is where I relished a delicious lunch featuring classic Italian dishes, crafted with the finest produce imported from Italy and local markets. A dish I thoroughly enjoyed was the spinach and ricotta ravioli which was doused in a beautiful, tangy tomato sauce. Another treat you can't miss, are the chocolate chip cookies from their Parisian inspired- Le Bistro. Le Bistro also makes for

the perfect, casual workspace as the café overlooks a stunning landscaped courtyard.

MEETINGS The hotel features over 4,500 sqm of stylish and flexible space for all kinds of events, from business meetings and conferences to birthdays and weddings. Charming outdoor terraces, sun-drenched meeting areas, large, lush lawns, private dining rooms, and pillar-free ballrooms are a few of the myriad of options available.

LEISURE One can unwind at Atman, The Spa. The rejuvenating spa o ers guests a holistic mind and body wellness experience. The well-trained and talented therapists know that a one-size-fits-all sensory experience is not the right approach. They have refined their focus to incorporate unique, interactive elements into a sensory experience. If you wish to indulge in a workout, the hotel's fitness centre, Gymkhana, spanning across 280 sqm, is ideal as it boasts of world-class machines and gym equipment.

VERDICT The Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa, Nashik is an ideal hotel for leisure and business travellers alike. The scenery surrounding the hotel creates an aura of tranquillity which allows one to be close to nature whilst being cocooned by luxury.

Anithya Balachandran

TRIED AND TESTED ABU

Sole at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

With an eclectic blend of modern and traditional Italian cuisine, Sole is the ideal place to discover authentic Italian dining in the heart of Abu Dhabi. The experience for diners is enhanced with an Italian ambiance and al fresco dining. In the beginning of my meal, I was served some freshly-baked Italian bread, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with aromatic black pepper. I had delicious fried calamari as an appetiser. The grilled sea bass that I ordered for the main course was absolutely mouth-watering and tasted very fresh. It was accompanied with cipollini onion salsa and celeriac purée.

HOURS

Monday-Saturday: 1200 to 1500, 1900 to 2300

PRICE

Approximately ₹11,500 for two people

CONTACT

Sole, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Corniche Road - Al BateenAbu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates hilton.com

The shaved bottarga garnish tied the whole dish together, while the cherry tomatoes and green olives lent it a pop of colour. A dessert of light vanilla mascarpone and savoiardi biscotti with

a punch of espresso was a wonderful epilogue to my meal.

Sole is the ideal place to discover authentic Italian dining in the heart of Abu Dhabi 81

VERDICT A meal at Sole is guaranteed to transport your taste buds to the heart of Italy.

Ravi Lalwani

Tori No Su at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

Tori No Su is an award-winning fine dining restaurant that is a must-visit for those who want an authentic taste of Japan. The elaborate dishes are prepared by chefs trained to

create a masterful symphony of flavours with seasonal ingredients. Innovative dishes are served at the sushi bar and the teppanyaki grill station. The contemporary,

low-lit interiors set a relaxing mood. For starters, I indulged in California Maki rolls, accompanied by a refreshing glass of Kirin, a Japanese tap beer. The colourful combination of cucumber, avocado and crab cocooned in rice, burst with fresh flavours. The main course of GLS Tokyo Mixed Seafood was seasoned with hints of garlic, sharp notes of spices, and was balanced out by the citrus punch of lemon. I concluded my hearty meal with matcha Tiramisu, prepared with mascarpone cream cheese, biscotti, flavoured with matcha.

VERDICT A meal at Tori No Su is an unforgettable gastronomical adventure.

Ravi Lalwani

HOURS

Wednesday-Sunday 1830 to 2300

PRICE

Approximately ₹11,800 for two people

CONTACT

Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad

Towers, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates hilton.com

The elaborate dishes are prepared by chefs trained to create a masterful symphony of avours

BTI SHOWCASE

Starry Night by Vaibhav Nadgaonkar

As a full-time photographer Vaibhav is always on the lookout for an interesting frame. Shot at Suryamal, near Wada, Maharashtra, Vaibhav went through an intricate process to obtain this image. He clicked approximately 100 frames in the interval of 30 seconds. An avid photographer, Vaibhav captured this image on his Nikon D750 using the Nikon Lens 24 mm to 120mm. “I feel that photographs enhance the way you look at certain sceneries.

Looking at the night sky lit up with stars is beautiful in its own right, but when you capture the image a certain way and use the power of technology to better it, that’s when you can see beyond what meets the naked eye.”

DISCOVER PARADISE, WITH A MINDFUL TOUCH.

Let your staycation be nothing short of spectacular!

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