InterContinental Hotels unveils global brand evolution plan
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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With 93 new hotels and resorts in the pipeline, InterContinental hotels says this transformative journey is driven by the brand’s long held belief that travel can be enhanced by cutting-edge technology and innovative designs
InterContinental Hotels and Resorts is set to launch a global brand evolution plan to reimagine the luxury travel experience, striking a balance between freedom and familiarity. This transformative journey is driven by the brand’s long held belief that travel can be enhanced by cutting-edge technology, innovative design, and exceptional talent of InterContinental’s diverse team.
InterContinental, one of the largest international luxury hotel brands aims to captivate imaginations of modern luxury travellers by satisfying their desire for knowledge and culturally rich experiences. The evolution includes new offerings and experiences, a game-changing food and beverage and hotel design strategy, which is tailored for seasoned travellers. As InterContinental hotels has 93 new hotels and resorts in the pipeline, these concepts will shape the future of the brand, the company said in a release.
Tom Rowntree, Vice President of Luxury Brands at IHG Hotels and Resorts, said: “This isn’t a rebrand or repositioning; rather, it’s a comprehensive transformation from start to finish of InterContinental, ensuring we stay at the forefront of crafting a luxury experience for the modern luxury traveler. Collaborating with our 215 hotels worldwide, we are committed to delivering precisely what today and tomorrow’s guests, owners and colleagues require.
“At its core, this brand evolution revolves around our exceptional team members globally. Alongside a new brand service platform, we’re introducing a fresh brand culture and a range of programmes aimed at attracting and retaining the finest talent in the industry. Our colleague brand culture is grounded in InterContinental’s core belief that travel expands the mind. We unite in diversity and wherever you are in the world, you belong at InterContinental.”
Given that luxury travellers place great value on special moments and celebrations but find little time to plan for them, here’s is where InterContinental Hotels & Resorts will elevate micro-occasions for guests who wish to treasure a milestone in their life.
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Michelin Guide to start recommending hotels with not stars, but this new emblem
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Michelin Guide, the eponymous publication owned by the French tiremaker announced that it would start designating “the most exceptional hotels across the world” with not stars but with a “key” emblem
After 123 years of recommending restaurants to road trippers, the Michelin Guide is driving into the hotel world.
At an event on Thursday, October 5 in Paris, the eponymous publication owned by the French tiremaker announced that it would start designating “the most exceptional hotels across the world” — not with one, two or three stars but with a “key” emblem. It will allocate keys to establishments based on five criteria: having a local character, individuality, excellence in architecture and interior design, top service and comfort, and a consistent value-for-price.
The move comes five years after Michelin quietly acquired Tablet Hotels, a booking website for boutique and luxury hotels, for an undisclosed sum. That site’s booking interface and hotels database now power a portal on the Michelin Guide site where consumers can browse a curated selection of accommodations—many with Michelin-rated restaurants—and make reservations.
The MICHELIN Guide creates a distinction for the hotel selection!
In the spirit of the MICHELIN Star, the MICHELIN Key recognizes the most exceptional hotels throughout the world.
It’s a long-planned bid to capture more of the travel market at a time when consumer spending and competition in the sector are at an all-time high. In recent months, restaurant ranking titans World’s 50 Best and La Liste have released hotel lists for the first time.
The first Michelin keys will be announced in the first half of 2024 from a preselected group of 5,300 hotels in 120 countries, the company said. All of those hotels, whether or not they earn keys, will be bookable through its website. Michelin will receive commissions on bookings made on its site.
Michelin has not specified whether a hotel can get more than one key. In its restaurant ratings, one star denotes that a place is “worth a stop,” two are “worth a detour” and three are “worth a special journey.”
“The Michelin key is a clear, reliable indication for travelers,” Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide, said in a statement.
Michelin’s expansion into hotels comes just weeks after the New York Times reported how six- and seven-figure sponsorship deals with tourism authorities brought the guide to such places as Colorado and Florida.
The hotel business will work differently. Michelin plans to initiate its service with a global list of keys, rather than destination-specific guides. Because the company stands to make significant revenue from commissions—Tablet was estimated to bring in $100 million in gross bookings in 2018, along with fees from a membership club for frequent travelers—sponsorship deals with tourism boards will not be the only way for the company to monetize hotel content.
“In an industry saturated with questionably trustworthy endorsements, the Michelin Guide offers its expertise to travelers to guide them toward only the very best experiences,” it said in a press release.
To that end, Michelin keys will be awarded following anonymous stays by Michelin staff judges, marking a departure from World’s 50 Best, which allows its anonymous panel to rank hotels in which they have accepted complimentary stays, and La Liste, which primarily bases its ranking on what’s been written in previous press coverage. Michelin inspectors pay their bills, said Poullennec, so there is no “commercial bias.”
For Michelin, the latest expansion marks a return to its roots. When it debuted as a publisher in 1900, the company was targeting travelers by giving practical advice to people driving the first motor vehicles around France. By 1920 it was charging for guidebooks filled with lists of hotels in Paris and restaurants broken into categories.
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50 Best Hotels of 2023: Oberoi Amarvilas Agra is only Indian hotel to feature on the list
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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The list of the world’s 50 Best hotels 2023 was announced at an awards ceremony in London. It includes industry-defining hotels from 35 locations across six continents worldwide.
A list of the world’s 50 Best hotels in 2023 was announced by “50 Best” recently at an awards ceremony in London. It includes industry-defining hotels from 35 locations across six continents worldwide. The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra is the only hotel in India to feature in the inaugural ranking of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023. This list is 50 Best’s first foray into the travel space, and its first new global ranking since the launch of The World’s 50 Best Bars in 2009.
The awards ceremony was hosted at the historic Guildhall and the unveiling highlighted outstanding hotel experiences across the world that will shape the aspirations of consumers, travellers and hoteliers.
Located near the Taj Mahal, the world’s most exquisite testimony to undying love, The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra is a luxury that offers unrestricted views of the Taj Mahal from all rooms and suites, complemented by warm and personalised hospitality. Drawing on the rich heritage and expertise of local craftsmen, the hotel’s interiors reflect the refined aesthetics of the Mughal era. The tastefully appointed accommodation, exquisite restaurants serving authentic Mughal and international cuisines, private dining beside the silhouette of the Taj Mahal, and spa therapies with Taj Mahal views make The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra an unforgettable experience.
Tim Brooke-Webb, Managing Director for The World’s 50 Best Hotels said: “Our heartfelt congratulations go out to every hotel on the list, each of which has clearly made a lasting impression on our Academy of travel experts. After seeing the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry, it’s been especially fulfilling to see so many hoteliers from around the world gather in London to celebrate each other’s achievements under one roof for the first-ever awards ceremony for The World’s 50 Best Hotels. We hope this list inspires travel lovers to book somewhere truly spectacular for their next trip.”
Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman of The Oberoi Group said, “We are honoured to be the sole representative of India on The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023 list. This recognition is a reflection of our relentless pursuit of perfection, the dedication of our team, and the timeless allure of The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra. Our commitment to providing guests with unrivalled experiences remains unwavering, and we invite travellers from around the world to join us in discovering the magic of the Taj Mahal from our exceptional vantage point.”
Vikram Oberoi, CEO and MD of The Oberoi Group, said, “We are delighted to be included in the inaugural listing of the World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our loyal guests for their unwavering support and our exceptional colleagues for their dedication and commitment to excellence. This prestigious listing affirms Oberoi Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to providing guests with exceptional facilities and unparalleled service. Our founder, Rai Bahadur M.S. Oberoi, and Mr. P.R.S. Oberoi, our former Chairman and mentor, have consistently emphasized that our colleagues are our most valuable asset. Time and again, our colleagues demonstrate their dedication to this enduring belief.”
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Winston Churchill’s Old War Office to be reopened by Hinduja Group as luxury hotel
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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The transformed OWO features 85 residences by Raffles, contributing to the building’s reimagining as a new culinary district for London, complete with nine new restaurants, three bars and a rooftop with panoramic views of Buckingham Palace.
The century-old multinational conglomerate Hinduja Group has collaborated with Raffles Hotels and Resorts to transform The Old War Office (OWO), once used by Britain’s World War II-era Prime Minister Winston Churchill, into a luxurious hotel in the heart of London. The grand opening is scheduled for September 26.
Sanjay Hinduja, who is overseeing the project, mentioned that his team was amazed by the sheer size and beauty of the majestic building at Whitehall. He emphasised that no expense had been spared to restore it to its former glory and pay homage to its heritage while infusing it with new life. The aim is to create a timeless and unparalleled legacy with Raffles London at The OWO.
The Hinduja Family acquired this building, which is located opposite Downing Street, over eight years ago in partnership with Raffles Hotels to convert it into an extravagant destination featuring residences, restaurants and spas.
The Old War Office has a rich history and has witnessed world-changing events, hosted by Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George. Its grand architecture has been featured in James Bond films and Netflix series ‘The Crown’.
Accor Chairman and CEO Sebastien Bazin said that the renovation involved the restoration of historic interior elements, delicate hand-laid mosaic floors, oak paneling, glittering chandeliers and a magnificent marble staircase. The OWO offers 120 guest rooms and suites, signature dining experiences by chef Mauro Colagreco and entertainment spaces, including a grand ballroom.
The historically significant parts of the building are the Heritage Suites, which were once the offices of political and military leaders. Some of these suites will be exclusively available as “The Whitehall Wing”, a six-bedroom suite in the west wing of the building that can accommodate up to 12 guests, making it one of the largest luxury hotel wings in London.
The transformed OWO features 85 residences by Raffles, contributing to the building’s reimagining as a new culinary district for London, complete with nine new restaurants and three bars, including a rooftop with panoramic views of Buckingham Palace.
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Ind vs Pak: Most luxury stays sold out in Ahmedabad — Lemon Tree rooms going for 10 times usual tariff
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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The T20 India vs Pak match is set to take place in Ahmedabad on October 15. A month after the announcement was made on June 27, only two luxury properties may still be available in the city (and fast selling out) — starting from Rs 1,27,500. But there are other stay options still that you can explore.
If there is one thing that unites an India that is divided by food, culture, clothing and more, it’s cricket. More so, if it’s an ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 India vs Pakistan match.
The T20 World Cup tie is set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on October 15, and most of the luxury properties in the city have been sold out, with prices that are going through the roof around the same day the announcement was made (June 27).
Almost a month later, Lemon Tree Premier ‘The Atrium’ Ahmedabad and Lemon Tree Hotel, Ahmedabad seem to be the only available properties — also on their way to getting fully booked — with prices starting from Rs 1,27,500 on Booking.com. For context, regular Lemon Tree prices in Ahmedabad start at Rs 13,000 as per the platform.
We saw the same trend when we last checked the hotel prices on June 27. The following properties are already sold out in the city:
Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad
ITC Narmada, Ahmedabad
Hyatt Ahmedabad
Fairfield by Marriott Ahmedabad
Taj Skyline, Ahmedabad
DoubleTree by Hilton Ahmedabad
Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad
Radisson Blu Hotel, Ahmedabad
Vivanta Ahmedabad, SG Highway
Renaissance Ahmedabad Hotel
Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre
Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels, Ashram Road, Ahmedabad
Four Points by Sheraton Ahmedabad
The Leela Gandhinagar
Novotel, Ahmedabad
ITC Narmada was one of the first hotels to get sold out. According to a News18 report, Devam Patel, Director of Absolute Leisure International, a travel company based in Ahmedabad, the Indian cricket team could be staying at the hotel. It could also be The Leela, Gandhinagar, the report suggested.
The airfare on October 14 and 15 is also higher than the usual rates, with the lowest price for a New Delhi-Ahmedabad flight starting at Rs 9,000 on October 14 and Rs 6,600 for October 15. The pricing on other days is just under Rs 5,000 for the same distance.
If you have set your mind on attending the event and watching the India vs Pakistan match physically at the Ahmedabad stadium, then there is still hope. Though limited, you still have options like booking homestays through Airbnb or talking to local travel agents who might take a shot at getting you a room at the property of your choice.
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Ind vs Pak World Cup Match: Online hotel booking price in Ahmedabad surges as high as 10x
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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For a comparatively budget stay like Holiday Inn Express, the normal pricing of about Rs 11,000 has gone as far up as Rs 42,600 for the duration on almost all platforms.
If you’re planning on attending India vs Pakistan match from ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in Ahmedabad this October, you might want to hurry up on booking your stay as hotel prices seem to be surging around the time.
ITC Narmada, where the cheapest room is generally for around Rs 64,000 for two nights, is currently selling for over Rs 1,70,000 from October 14 to October 16. We checked different travel platforms and the property is already sold out on Make My Trip and Goibibo.
The case is similar to another luxury stay property, Four Points by Sheraton, which is also sold out on some platforms and selling fast on others. The highest price for the same duration in the hotel is on Make My Trip and Goibibo with over Rs 1,06,000. The surge in this hotel is much higher as their regular pricing is usually around Rs 10,000. On the official website, the lowest price is listed at around Rs 40,000.
For a comparatively budget stay like Holiday Inn Express, the normal pricing of about Rs 11,000 has gone as far up as Rs 42,600 for the duration on almost all platforms.
The match is on October 15, which is also the same day when Navratri begins in 2023 and the festival sees a huge celebration in Gujarat. This is the time when a lot of Gujaratis might fly back home and hence could also see a surge in flight bookings.
A quick search on the internet showed us that Delhi to Ahmedabad flight tickets are ranging between Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000 in the months of October and ahead. While for the months of June till September, they start at Rs 3,000.
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Have you heard about “flat-pack hotels”? This is the latest hospitality industry trend that is altering the game for both tourists and hotel owners. Flat-pack hotels, as opposed to typical hotels, provide pre-fabricated, modular rooms that can be quickly constructed on-site. This novel building process is not only cost-effective, but is environment-friendly and portable. Therefore, …
Have you heard about “flat-pack hotels”? This is the latest hospitality industry trend that is altering the game for both tourists and hotel owners. Flat-pack hotels, as opposed to typical hotels, provide pre-fabricated, modular rooms that can be quickly constructed on-site. This novel building process is not only cost-effective, but is environment-friendly and portable. Therefore, how does the emergence of such hotels affect the future of lodging? Firstly, let’s evaluate this new trend in the hotel sector.
What are “flat-pack hotels” that are gaining in popularity across the world? These lodging facilities feature prefabricated, modular rooms that may be swiftly constructed on location. They are a new kind of hotel that use prefabricated, modular rooms that can be swiftly put together on location. It’s a pretty creative way to construct a structure that is sustainable and ecologically friendly while also saving time and money.
IKEA has been selling flat-pack furniture since the 1950s, which is when flat-pack hotels first appeared. It’s a kind of a modular room that one can prepare at home and this trend has finally made its way into the hotel business.
The year 2008 saw the creation of the first prefabricated hotel in Belgium. This pop-up hotel was constructed using prefabricated, modular parts that were simple to put together and take apart. The best aspect is that each unit was constructed using recyclable components and is intended to be energy-efficient, making it ecologically beneficial.
These hotels are popping up everywhere across the world. For instance, the Habitas hotel in Tulum, Mexico, employs off-site prefabricated, modular rooms that are later built on the beach. The Hivehaus hotel in the UK is another example. It is built from small, modular pods that can be put together like jigsaw pieces.
The use of flat-pack hotels is expanding for many different reasons. To begin with, they are quick and easy to construct, making them perfect for pop-up events and transient installations. They are also typically constructed using environmentally friendly and sustainable materials, which makes them a great option for anybody wishing to travel while minimizing their impact on the environment.
They may also be quite trendy and modern, and people enjoy their unusual designs and creative uses of space. Overall, it’s certainly worth exploring this style of hotel!
Since its inception, flat-pack hotels have gained popularity, and they are now acknowledged as an effective solution for affordable and ecological housing solutions.
In essence, these hotels make it simple to swiftly create and deconstruct rooms, saving time and money on construction. Also, because it generates less trash than conventional construction techniques, it is better for the environment.
These hotels also have the advantage of being lightweight and transportable, which makes them ideal for areas that require temporary housing, such as disaster-stricken regions or rural villages. Even those impacted by natural catastrophes or migrants have used them as temporary shelter.
One of the coolest things about flat-pack hotels is that they give visitors a distinctive and individualized experience. Several room configurations and designs are possible because of the modular architecture, making it simple to accommodate varied visitor preferences. Overall, these quick-to-build motels are fantastic inventions.
Gen Zers prefer flat-pack hotels because they place a strong emphasis on sustainability and efficiency. Because they’re so easy to put together and take apart, they’re also great for people who want to travel and explore new places. They also come in a range of unique patterns and designs, giving you the opportunity to customize your hotel room completely. Ultimately, it’s simple to understand why younger folks are clamoring for flat-pack hotels.
Have you ever considered how such hotel concepts may be used to aid people in dire situations such as natural disasters or refugee crises? Let me share with you something that has great potential in certain circumstances: flat-pack hotels! They are the ideal response for emergency situations requiring temporary housing. Imagine being able to arrange someplace to stay during emergencies like any natural disaster. For those in need, these motels can be a blessing!
Delivering emergency relief homes may be too expensive or time-consuming using traditional building techniques. Yet, you can swiftly offer secure shelter to those who have been affected by a disaster thanks to flat-pack hotels. They are also energy-efficient, which is especially significant in disaster assistance situations when electricity may be scarce. Furthermore, they may be customized to match the special needs of those who will be living there.
Flat-pack hotels have previously been deployed in several disaster relief scenarios across the world. In 2017, a flat-pack hotel was placed in the Caribbean to provide temporary shelter for Hurricane Irma victims. It’s incredible how much these hotels can help those in need, and it’s all because to their ease of installation and adaptability. Currently, governments all around the world see these hotels as a rapid solution for disaster aid.
Yet, because to their more basic architecture and amenities, such hotels may not give the same degree of elegance and comfort as ordinary hotels. Another disadvantage of flat-pack hotels is their vulnerability to damage. Flat-pack hotel furniture is built of MDF, which does not last as long as solid furniture, especially if it has been dismantled and reassembled several times. Yet, they portend a bright future for the lodging industry as well as an exciting opportunity for sustainable and innovative design.
So far, the emergence of flat-pack hotels is a crucial difference for the lodging industry, offering guests and hotel owners a sustainable, cost-effective, and customizable option. These hotels offer enormous potential for emergency relief housing and, based on prior experiences, may soon replace traditional relief solutions for individuals who are without a place to stay after a disaster.
As the need for sustainable and affordable accommodation develops, these hotels are poised to become an increasingly popular choice for those searching for a unique and imaginative overnight experience. They are an excellent choice for providing stable and safe shelter in disaster-stricken or isolated areas because to its low cost, extended lifespan, and ease of installation. Yet, they offer a bright future for the accommodation business as well as an exciting opportunity for environmentally conscious and creative style. Why not give them a shot?
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