Author: HBI Staff | Hyderabad
The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has signed an MoU with the CUTS Institute for Regulation & Competition (CIRC) to launch a legal and compliance course tailored for the hospitality industry. K. Shyama Raju, President of FHRAI, emphasized the need for legal awareness, stating, “Understanding the law is no longer optional; it’s a necessity.” The eight-week course, Navigating the Legal Landscape of Hospitality, covers essential topics such as licensing, contract law, labour regulations, and sustainability compliance. It aims to equip hoteliers, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals with practical knowledge to tackle regulatory challenges. Pradeep Mehta, Chairman of…
Premium German brand Hansgrohe has launched the LavaPura Element S series of e-toilets in India, setting a new standard for smart, hygienic, and sustainable bathroom solutions. Tailored for both private residences and high-end hospitality spaces, the series blends advanced hygiene features with sleek, user-friendly design to meet the evolving needs of modern Indian consumers. “The LavaPura Element S series is a lifestyle upgrade that integrates cutting-edge hygiene technology with minimalist aesthetics, making it ideal for homes and hotels,” said Abhijeet Sonar, Hansgrohe’s Head of Marketing for India and SAARC. Key features include eSanitize Ion Sterilisation, UV Sterilisation, AquaHelix 360° Vortex…
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has taken significant steps to pave the way for the construction of a five-star hotel on a prime plot in Khamla. Encroachments on the plot, which had stalled the project for months, were cleared earlier this week. This move is expected to boost the city’s hospitality and tourism infrastructure. The land, earmarked for a luxury hotel, is strategically located near the airport and key business districts, making it ideal for catering to both corporate and leisure travelers. The proposed five-star hotel is part of a broader initiative to enhance Nagpur’s appeal as a business and…
Online travel platform Ixigo has suspended hotel and flight bookings to Turkey, China, and Azerbaijan in light of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The announcement was made by Ixigo CEO Aloke Bajpai via a post on social media platform X, where he stated, “Enough is enough! Blood and bookings won’t flow together.” The move follows similar decisions by other travel platforms like Cox & Kings and Travomint, which have paused new travel offerings to nations perceived as unsupportive of India. Cox & Kings Director Karan Agarwal remarked, “In light of recent developments, we have decided to suspend all travel…
Amid heightened diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor, Indian hospitality brand Go Homestays has terminated its partnership with Turkish Airlines. The move reflects a growing trend in the travel and tourism sector, where businesses align with public sentiment on national security and diplomatic priorities. The decision stems from Turkey’s public support for Pakistan during the standoff, including President Erdoğan’s statements backing Pakistan’s “calm policies” after India’s retaliatory strikes on terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In response, Indian social media erupted with calls to boycott Turkish Airlines and tourism to Turkey, leading Go Homestays to act. The hospitality…
Cellar 33, in collaboration with Sonarys, hosted an exclusive pre-launch dinner at Domaine du Chalet, Chigny-les-Roses, France, to celebrate the entry of eight grower Champagne houses into India. This marks a pivotal moment for artisanal Champagne in a market known for its growing appreciation for authenticity and craftsmanship. Founded by Amrita Singh and Mattia Antonio Cianca, Cellar 33 specializes in connecting global wine producers with emerging markets, with a focus on India. The dinner, curated by Chef Nikhil Nagpal of ITC Grand Chola’s Avartana, showcased innovative pairings of South Indian cuisine with the distinct profiles of grower Champagnes, emphasizing their…
CGH Earth Saha has launched Hibiscus Villa, a tranquil private retreat on the serene shores of Vembanad Lake, Kerala. Combining sustainable luxury with tropical charm, the villa offers an intimate escape for families and small groups. Hibiscus Villa features three spacious bedrooms, a cozy living-cum-dining area, and a fully equipped kitchenette. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the lake, lush gardens, and a private pool. The villa’s outdoor spaces include a patio for alfresco dining, a sunbed-lined poolside deck, and a serene garden setup, all designed for quiet reflection and relaxation. “We created Hibiscus Villa as a sanctuary for guests…
The recently finalized India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has sent ripples across India’s spirits and hospitality sectors. A pivotal aspect of the deal is the reduction of import duties on Scotch whisky and gin, which will gradually decrease to 40% over the next decade. While this may initially impact domestic liquor brands, it offers long-term growth prospects for India’s evolving hospitality industry. Shares of Indian liquor companies saw a dip of up to 5% on Wednesday, signaling immediate concerns about competitive pressures. However, for hospitality, the agreement is a double-edged sword. On one hand, reduced duties could lead to a…
Minimalist Hotels, a leading lifestyle hospitality brand, has announced plans to open 20 new properties in India over the next two years. This expansion aligns with the growing trend of “bleisure” travel, blending business and leisure, and targeting modern travelers seeking immersive and design-forward experiences. The new hotels will span key destinations such as Varanasi, NCR, Rajasthan, Goa, Mumbai, Uttarakhand, and Chandigarh. Minimalist’s strategy emphasizes creating culturally enriched spaces that combine minimalist design with local nuances, offering guests a unique sense of place. India’s hospitality sector, projected to grow from $15.67 billion in 2024 to $22.41 billion by 2030, provides…
Global hospitality leader Hilton is redefining luxury in India with its first-ever LXR hotel debut and a lineup of high-profile launches. Marking a milestone in its expansion, Hilton announced that Bengaluru will host the country’s first LXR Hotels & Resorts property—The Den, Bengaluru. This development is part of Hilton’s vision to establish India as a cornerstone of its luxury portfolio. LXR Hotels & Resorts, known for bespoke luxury experiences, adds a distinct touch to independent hotels, making them ideal for discerning travelers seeking personalized service. Positioned in India’s Silicon Valley, The Den is set to offer an unparalleled fusion of…
