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WWW.HOSPITALITYBIZINDIA.COM16 COVER STORY HOSPITALITY BIZ n JANUARY, 2025seek premium, personalized experiences. There is a growing demand for wellness retreats, eco-tourism, and experiential stays, and guests are willing to pay more for unique, tailored offerings. The rise in operational costs, such as labour and materials, will inevitably lead to price increases, particularly in urban markets. However, hotels that provide exceptional experiences%u2014whether in sustainability or cultural immersion%u2014will still be able to command competitive ARRs without deterring demand. TierII and tier-III cities are seeing a rise in demand, and with more travelers opting for workations, we expect occupancy to rise further in locations that offer flexible workspaces and extended stays.What specific policy changes or support do you expect from the Ministry of Tourism and other government bodies to enhance the growth and global competitiveness of the hospitality sector in India?The Ministry of Tourism and government bodies are crucial stakeholders in shaping the future of the hospitality industry, and their continued support will be pivotal as we look to 2025. I hope to see an acceleration in policy reforms that enhance ease of doing business, including more streamlined regulations related to hotel classification, licensing, and taxation. This will not only encourage investment but also help businesses scale more efficiently.Further, there should be a focus on building infrastructure in underdeveloped regions, particularly in tier-II and tier-III cities. These areas hold immense potential, and infrastructure development can make them viable options for domestic and international travelers alike. Beyond physical infrastructure, digital infrastructure should also be prioritized, including the development of smart cities that can integrate technology seamlessly into the travel experience, enhancing convenience for guests and operators. Moreover, there is a growing need for policies that foster sustainability. As the hospitality sector increasingly embraces eco-tourism and sustainable practices, government support in the form of incentives for green certification, renewable energy adoption, and waste management solutions will be invaluable. Lastly, continued investment in skill development and training initiatives will be essential to ensure the workforce is equipped to meet the rising expectations of the modern traveller.How do you plan to leverage the increasing demand for experiential travel and domestic tourism in 2025?The surge in experiential travel and domestic tourism presents a significant opportunity for us at The Fern Hotels & Resorts. We are already in the process of innovating our offerings to meet the evolving preferences of today%u2019s travelers. In 2025, we will focus on creatingmore personalized and immersive experiences that go beyond traditional hotel stays. For example, we are expanding our portfolio of wellness retreats, nature-focused getaways, and cultural explorations that resonate with the growing desire for meaningful and enriching travel experiences.Given the increasing importance of sustainability, we are also incorporating eco-friendly practices across all our properties, from sustainable sourcing of food to energy-efficient infrastructure. Our %u2018green%u2019 initiatives are particularly appealing to domestic travelers who are becoming more conscientious about their environmental impact. For instance, our properties located in offbeat destinations like the Western Ghats or Rajasthan%u2019s desert retreats are designed to offer serene experiences while promoting environmental conservation. Guests can participate in activities like nature walks, bird watching, and conservation initiatives, which allow them to directly contribute to local ecosystems while enjoying a rejuvenating stay. Additionally, we will be enhancing our services for %u2018workations,%u2019 with bespoke packages that provide a blend of leisure and productivity for the growing number of professionals opting for extended stays in non-urban settings. Our properties in scenic, tranquil locations are ideal for those blending work and leisure. By providing high-speed internet, co-working spaces, and the option for extended stays, we are well-positioned to capture this market, enabling guests to work remotely while experiencing the best of India%u2019s diverse landscapes.We are dedicated to fostering an experiential environment, enriched with a strong sense of belonging and a touch of local flair. Our Zinc Journey by The Fern accommodations are renowned for their sophisticated interiors and impeccable style, ideal for today%u2019s traveller looking for serene lively escapades. Each property exudes elegance and offers a range of unique experiences with attention to detail and designed to leave a lasting impression. Similarly, the recently launched, The Fern Crown Collection immerses guests in an unparalleled realm of experiential exclusivity, redefining benchmarks of sophistication and refinement. At this curated selection of top-tier Fern hotels & resorts, every moment is elevated through thoughtfully tailored experiences that transcend traditional notions of comfort and opulence. The collection reimagines luxury as more than mere indulgence; it is an immersive journey where every service is meticulously crafted to resonate with the unique desires of discerning travellers.On a broader scale, we are also working to position The Fern Hotels & Resorts as a key player in the community-based tourism space. By working closely with local artisans, indigenous communities, and regional tourism boards, we aim to provide authentic cultural experiences, thereby encouraging travelers to not just visit a place but truly immerse themselves in it. nQQ%u2018The demand for branded hotels will surge%u2019In 2025, India%u2019s hospitality sector will see luxury global hotel brands expanding their presence in both metro and emerging cities. The demand for branded hotels will surge as consumers increasingly seek consistent, high-quality experiences. As a result, independent and standalone players will increasingly look to join established brand umbrellas to leverage global recognition, operational expertise, and access to international marketing networks. This trend will be fueled by a growing affluent middle class and a shift towards premium services. Branded hotels will cater not only to luxury travelers but also to evolving business and experiential tourism markets. nSarbendra Sarkar, Founder and MD, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts