Industry News

The Maldives, 15 March 2023 – The Lux Collective’s beloved LUX* South Ari Atoll welcomed extraordinary guests for this year’s Women’s Day celebrated on the 8th of March. Following the tradition, the renowned island resort hosted inspiring changemakers and thought leaders, who contribute to development of the Maldives, each in her own field. This year, the guests were invited for an Extraordinary Quest with pop-up surprises and hosted workshops designed to guide them on a new approach to daily routine. Six women of different nationalities, professions and positions made it to the “extraordinary winners” list: Ajna Shareef - Aero Marketing Manager at Maldives Airports Company Limited, Shaistha Mohamed - MSP Engagement Strategist at Noo Raajje, Elisabeth Gressl - founder & designer of LANALA Swimwear, Mary Halym – self-made artist & owner of Kakuni Studio, Viktoriia Lavrinets - Lead Safety & Sustainability Consultant at NSURE, and Aishath Alaa Abdul Hannan - Deputy Manager of Corporate Strategy & Business Development at Trans Maldivian Airways. All of them shine brightly in their industries, supporting the Maldives towards a successful and sustainable future. The unique journey started with a healthy snacks workshop at Umami restaurant, following a self-pampering class at LUX* ME Spa and an island tour. After an engaging Maldivian cooking class at the resort’s Herb Garden, the quest concluded with a celebration ceremony and symbolic presentation of the Extraordinary Women certification. With special gifts from the resort collected during the quest, the participants will be able to continue new self-care practices back at home. “Every year, we inviteinspiring women from different industries across the country to celebrate their successes. From running a small business, teaching art, or rocking the corporate world, we want to appreciate their contribution, which is very valuable to the Maldives. We find it truly beautiful that both local and expat ladies from many nationalities call the islands their home and work together to make the Maldives shine”, said Anastasiya Babenko, Marketing & PR Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll. The Lux Collective proudly supports women in their professional and personal growth, empowering them to excel. Recently accredited as the Great Place to Work, the group firmly believes in the importance of inclusion and emphasises #EmbraceEquity, thereby discovering and nurturing talented women leaders across different departments and levels wherever it operates globally.

PANAJI, DECEMBER 14, 2022: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), Goa’s largest hospitality operator and leader in the tourism sector rings in the festive cheer with a greater purpose of giving back to the society this holiday season. Under Paathya, IHCL’s framework of sustainability and social impact measures, various initiatives have been implemented at the hotels to give guests a truly Goan holiday experience, which will benefit the local community and aid in preserving Goa’s rich heritage. In the true spirit of the festive season, guests and associates will engage in meaningful actions of touching someone’s life in an impactful manner.  Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Vincent Ramos, Senior Vice President – Goa for IHCL said, “Inclusion and business responsibility is embedded in our DNA. Taking ahead IHCL’s over a century old legacy, we strive for the local communities to share in the benefits of our presence by serving the needs of the underprivileged communities and leaving a positive impact towards reshaping our common future for a better tomorrow. In the merriment of the festive season, we are delighted to extend an opportunity to our guests and associates to make a difference.”Carecations, a series of curated travel itineraries by IHCL will help guests to volunteer and support local communities on their travels. From learning about Azulejos - once an almost forgotten art of hand-painted ceramic tiles to discovering another side of Goa in the hinterlands, to revisiting Goa’s legendary past with Fado - the iconic music genre introduced to Goa by the Portuguese, the holiday itineraries and activities enable direct interaction between guests and the beneficiaries, allowing both to discover a rich bank of knowledge and stories. In line with the ethos and values of the Tata Group, IHCL, Goa has also collaborated with various social welfare groups and philanthropic bodies across the state to amplify their reach in the community. The hotels will be showcasing traditional Goan Christmas sweets prepared by local women as part of the festive gift hamper collection. Moreover, the annual cake mixing ceremonies held at the hotels witnessed the use of locally procured fruits, nuts, spices and spirits. Over 2000 employees of IHCL, Goa will be participating in various donation drives and other social works in service of the community throughout the festive season. About The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. These include Taj – the iconic brand for the most discerning travellers and the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand and India’s Strongest Hospitality Brand as per Brand Finance 2021, SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels, Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels, and Ginger, which is revolutionising the lean luxe segment.Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, the Company opened its first hotel - The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL has a portfolio of 236 hotels including 60 under development globally across 4 continents, 11 countries and in over 100 locations. The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization. It is primarily listed on the BSE and NSE. For more information, please contact: doris.dsouza@tajhotels.com

Six Senses Fort Barwara, a sensitively restored 14th-century fort and India’s definitive wellness sanctuary, celebrates its first anniversary in October 2022. Originally home to a Rajasthani Royal family, Six Senses Fort Barwara reinterprets the gracious and regal ambience of a forgotten era dating back 700 years. Significant conservations efforts of over a decade transformed the fort into a luxury resort and retreat of well-being, with the original women’s palace serving as pioneering Spa and Wellness centre, offering extensive ayurvedic treatments and personalized wellness programs.  Perched on the majestic Aravallis and thirty minutes from the Ranthambore National Park, the royal citadel offers a spectacular view facing the Chauth Mata temple. The historic property features three dining venues, a bar and lounge, 30,000 square foot Six Senses Spa and 48 beautifully appointed suites including five marquee suites with stunning views. Since its opening last year, Six Senses Fort Barwara has won accolades and recognition in the prestigious Travel + Leisure IT list 2022, Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot List for the brand’s magnanimous arrival in India and Vogue Beauty Awards for the best wellness resort in domestic category. Now, Six Senses Fort Barwara is all set to ring in its first anniversary with a host of exciting celebrations, which will include cocktails at sundowner, followed by a gala night with folk music and cultural performances and cake cutting ceremony at the iconic stepwell. In order to help guests create memories of a lifetime, the resort is running the First Anniversary Offer with extra savings for the entire month of October. The offer includes 20 percent savings on F&B, spa services, surprise welcome treat on arrival and other benefits. Additionally, guests can also enjoy the slow life at Six Senses Fort Barwara by simply extending their stay for three nights under The Extended Offer, treating themselves to the unique Six Senses experiences such as the signature couple spa treatment, heritage and horticulture walk around the fort along with a dinner and more. Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Frans Westraadt, General Manager, Six Senses Fort Barwara expressed, “It has indeed been a very exciting journey so far and it will continue to be so, with a uniquely compelling story and meaningful experiences that Fort Barwara has to offer to travelers. As we celebrate our first-year anniversary on October 16th at the resort, we look forward to embarking on an enriching journey into 2023 together with our guests and Six Senses Fort Barwara family.” Six Senses Fort Barwara takes guests on a journey of discovery based on how deep they want to go in the pursuit of well-being. The spa offers an extensive Ayurvedic “whole body” healing system, meditation, and bespoke programs based on the preventative principles of Eastern medicine and result-oriented Western influences. The Eat with Six Senses approach across the dining venues is based on the guiding principles of natural ingredients, local and sustainable menus and less is more. The ground-breaking Sleep with Six Senses standard has been implemented across every suite to give guests the kind of night’s sleep where they wake up ready to move mountains. The Six Senses Environmental and Social Sustainability Policy at Fort Barwara focuses on energy efficiency, water and waste management, social commitment, protecting natural surroundings, air quality and noise control. Be it a romantic getaway or a family bonding vacation, Six Senses Fort Barwara’s trademark emotional hospitality promises to spoil one with culinary journeys, heritage and wildlife discoveries, and an experience of a lifetime.

Ahead of Emirati Womens Day which falls on 28th August, Marriot Bonvoy has curated a range of experiences and offers to celebrate the remarkable women of the UAE. From bespoke spa treatments to traditional Afternoon Tea and luxurious staycation discounts, the Marriott Bonvoy properties in London, Sheraton Grand London Park Lane, and St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London are set to welcome travellers with an array of unique offerings to commemorate the special day.  Tea-licious Afternoon Tea at The Palm Court Indulge in a delectable Afternoon Tea, featuring a range of indulgent pastries and scrumptious savoury treats, served with freshly baked scones accompanied with irresistible homemade seasonal preserves and traditional Cornish clotted cream. Guests can enjoy this experience at the prestigious Palm Court, featuring a stunning Art Deco interior. Additionally, guests celebrating Emirati Womens Day will receive a special welcome, with pomegranate juice, Baklava, and dates - a true ode to the UAE and its culture and heritage.   To make a reservation, please visit www.palmcourtlondon.co.uk Spa Retreat at St. Pancras Spa The Spa Retreat at St. Pancras Spa will be celebrating Emirati Womens Day for a whole month with a range of stunning, specially curated spa rituals. Featuring a relaxation pool, with hydro loungers, traditional saunas, a therapeutic steam room, a relaxation lounge, and six lush treatment rooms including a couples suite, the St. Pancras Spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The Spa Retreat offers guests the ultimate package, including an overnight stay, breakfast, and complete access to the spa, fitness centre, pool, and a choice of a 60-minute treatment for one person, including a manicure and pedicure, the ultimate rose massage experience, or the Rose Refinery facial. To make a reservation, please visit www.stpancras-spa.com   About St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel is located in Kings Cross, one of London's most exciting neighbourhoods, offering excellent transport links and a wealth of bars, restaurants, museums, and galleries. The 245-room hotel incorporates 38 historical Chambers suites and the exclusive Chambers Club. The hotel also boasts a Spa, Booking Office 1869 restaurant, The Hansom bar lounge and 10 unique meeting and event spaces. Combining stunning architecture and an exceptional level of service, the hotel offers an experience like no other. www.stpancraslondon.com About Sheraton Grand London Park Lane As the first Sheraton Grand in London, the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane joins a select portfolio of 42 of the finest Sheraton hotels around the world recognized for their enticing destinations, distinguished designs, and excellence in service and guest experience. The 305-room Sheraton Grand London Park Lane, which originally opened in 1927 at the height of the Roaring Twenties, has undergone a transformation in its guest rooms and public spaces. The renovation combines the modern touches of a five-star hotel with careful restoration to retain the original elegance and Art Deco glamour of this historic property. To learn more visit the website, or stay connected on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Golden Tulip are celebrating their diamond anniversary as the brand turns 60 this year, following an eventful year filled with noteworthy accomplishments, tremendous growth, impactful partnerships, and industry accolades. An upscale brand which started its journey in 1962 with opening its first hotel in Netherlands to currently operating 160 hotels in 39 countries. The brand offers today’s travelers a unique experience through an uninhibited approach on business travel. Golden Tulip makes the business trip desirable through a simple equation: Entertainment, seamlessness and balance, fulfilled with local touch. A philosophy perfectly summarized in two words: Playtime. Anytime. On the occasion of 60th year anniversary, Mathieu Rouri, Vice –President International Operations, Louvre Hotels Group, Paris said “It’s a pleasure for us at Louvre Hotels Group to come to India and celebrate our success amongst the several hotels in the country. A brand which believed in the philosophy of playful outlook on life, work and travel and perfectly summarized in two words: Playtime. Anytime”. “For us, it’s a great opportunity to celebrate Golden Tulip’s 60th year and shares the excitement with our community, our guests and celebrate the long journey of success and growth in Indian Market too” said Anil Madhok, Executive Chairman, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts. Sarovar Hotels currently operates 8 Golden Tulip hotels in India in Bhiwadi, Jaipur, Goa, Kolkata, Gurugram, Lucknow and Jalandhar and plans to open 7 more hotels in next two years.