According to an Uber spokesman, the new service will be titled ‘Uber Shuttle’ for daily commute in Kolkata…reports Asian Lite News
Uber will now run buses in Kolkata jointly with the West Bengal transport department.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) in this regard was signed between Uber and the transport department here on Wednesday.
According to an Uber spokesman, the new service will be titled ‘Uber Shuttle’ for daily commute in Kolkata.
Claiming that this is the first of its kind partnership, the spokesman said that the proposed service will tap into Uber’s global expertise with an aim to provide tech-optimised mobility choice using private bus fleets.
“The launch of Uber Shuttle will help in tackling road congestion while getting more people to commute in fewer vehicles, which in turn will help reduce carbon emissions,” he said.
It is learnt that the new service will be available by March 2024.
“Uber will run approximately 60 air-conditioned buses on predefined routes, connecting business districts with residential areas in Kolkata. As part of this MoU, Uber has proposed to invest $10 million by 2025 in the state and create approximately 50,000 livelihood opportunities in Kolkata in the next five years,” the spokesman added.
The MoU was signed during the Bengal Global Business Summit, 2023 which concluded on Wednesday.
The Uber spokesman also said that with the launch of Uber Shuttle, commuters will now be able to pre-book seats up to a week in advance, follow the live location and route of the bus, and know its expected time of arrival, just like they can do with Uber cab.
“This will bring alive a convenient commute experience with no standing passengers, cashless payments, and round-the-clock safety support from Uber, including having access to a 24×7 Safety Line. The buses will run on each route from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily,” he added.
A thoughtfully curated suite of facilities caters to the needs of different guest profiles. From quiet sophistication and holistic mindfulness to family adventures and culinary appreciation, guests will be able to enjoy their stay in an environment that snuggles them in their comfort zone…reports Asian Lite News
Amora Beach Resort Phuket receives extensive refurbishment costing THB 500 million (US$14 million) as part of its repositioning into a five-star modern lifestyle resort that meets the preferences of active and adventurous couples, friends and families. Located on an exclusive 80m stretch on Bang Tao Beach, the 264-key resort is expected to reopen in December this year with newly built facilities.
Owned and operated by Amora Hotels & Resorts, Amora Beach Resort Phuket first opened its doors in 1999 as a four-star resort, and with its refurbishment, serves as the flagship resort for the group in Thailand. In addition to renovated rooms and suites across 13 categories, the beachfront resort introduces the new-concept Nora Beach Club,Amora Wellness Center with massage and fitness facilities, Isla restaurant, a kids’ club, two pools, a beachfront events lawn, the Amora Grand Ballroom and four meeting rooms.
“With strong demand returning, the repositioning of Amora Beach Resort Phuket is a timely one, considering the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s re-focus on luxury tourism and new market opportunities, particularly to islands such as Phuket,” says Chaowaphat Siriphatrawan, Owner and Director of Amora Hotels & Resorts.
“Travellers are now willing to pay a lot more for hotel room rates in Phuket, which has currently achieved a new peak, and Amora is stepping up our game to provide exceptional experiences and high-quality services and products that make it well worth their while and keep them coming back.”
The resort’s rooms have been refurbished in a contemporary style, adorned in soothing neutral tones with clean minimalist lines that flow organically from bed to balcony. Each room has a private balcony or terrace with views of either landscaped gardens, glistening pools or the Andaman Sea. Guests have a choice of 32-40 sqm Superior room types, 36-48 sqm Deluxe room types, 32-40 sqm Amora Ocean View rooms, 40-48 sqm Amora Grand Pool View/Pool Side rooms, and 40 sqm Deluxe Family rooms with additional bunk beds for children. Three suite types ranging from 52 sqm to 144 sqm are also available.
A thoughtfully curated suite of facilities caters to the needs of different guest profiles. From quiet sophistication and holistic mindfulness to family adventures and culinary appreciation, guests will be able to enjoy their stay in an environment that snuggles them in their comfort zone. One of the key highlights is the new-concept Nora Beach Club for guests who want to dine and chat; drink and chill; or dance and enjoy live music. The club is unique in its integrated concept featuring a modern Mediterranean restaurant, a bar and a lounge with distinct zones; sunken beachfront pods that ensconce guests in its private setting while surrounded by water; and a roster of international musicians playing live music.Adults and children alike will have their favourite moments to remember at the resort. The kids’ club has been conceptualised for engaging playtime on different levels. There is a play zone fitted with a rubber slider in a ball house for the active ones; a craft zone for young artists to flex their skills; and a multimedia zone to nurture young minds with edutainment. Additionally, a packed programme of beach activities, sports-related classes, movies, and more, will keep the children happy and busy.
When it’s time to focus inwards and seek holistic healing, the Amora Wellness Center beckons with soothing spa treatments, rejuvenating massages or energising fitness workouts. To satiate the appetite, Isla offers all-day dining with a diverse menu of Western and Asian cuisines and a live-cooking station, while the Lobby Lounge offers a patisserie menu and a casual, chic setting for teatime conversations.
Amora Beach Resort Phuket’s wedding and MICE facilities are also an important component of its refurbishment. Its beachfront location on the pristine Bang Tao Beach lends itself well as a desirable destination for weddings and incentive travel groups. The new beachfront events lawn is specifically designed for those special moments. This versatile 1,000 sqm venue can be set up for intimate ceremonies, classy cocktail receptions or grand gala dinners, supported by an experienced events planning team. Astra is another venue that offers an ambient rooftop space overlooking the Andaman Sea.
Going indoors, the 360 sqm Amora Grand Ballroom can host up to 400 guests, ranging from about 250 pax banquet-style and 330 pax theatre-style to 400 pax reception-style. It is a newly built ballroom fitted with state-of-the-art audiovisual technology and designed in a contemporary style that creates a bright and uplifting ambience. Event organisers may also utilise an additional 700 sqm from four meeting rooms, which includes 330 sqm of configurable space.
Renowned as one of the world’s most accessible destinations for solo travellers, it’s no surprise that Bangkok made the list.Thailand’s capital is welcoming to solo travellers on any budget, but being the home of hostel-packed Kao San Road, Bangkok is sure to be on the travel itinerary for backpackers…reports Asian Lite News
Travel comes in many forms. With Singles’ Day around the corner, digital travel platform Agoda looked at the most popular destinations for solo travellers. For India, Bangkok is in first place, followed by Dubai and Kuala Lumpur.
Singles’ Day, or 11-11, takes place annually on the eleventh day of November. The unofficial holiday originated in China as an answer to Valentine’s Day, celebrating those who aren’t in a romantic relationship. Over the years, Singles’ Day has gained popularity globally. The day is now recognized as one of the most impactful online shopping days with many online platforms, including Agoda, offering special discounts.
“As Agoda, we have talked a lot about family travel this year but with travel numbers up compared to recent years, we’ve also seen an increase in solo travel” said Krishna Rathi, Country Director India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives at Agoda. “Going on a solo trip is arguably one of the best gifts one can give oneself. Whether it is to explore new cultures, to make new friends, or to reconnect with those across the globe, going on a trip alone often requires stepping out of one’s comfort zone. But those who set out on an adventure of their own are usually rewarded with the creation of the most special memories.”
To determine the solo travel favourites, Agoda looked at the most popular destinations for solo travellers checking in on weekends and across a wide range of hotel stays. Around Asia Pacific, the top three consist of Tokyo, Japan in first, Bangkok, Thailand in second, and Seoul, South Korea in third. For India, the most popular destinations are:
Bangkok, Thailand
Renowned as one of the world’s most accessible destinations for solo travellers, it’s no surprise that Bangkok made the list.Thailand’s capital is welcoming to solo travellers on any budget, but being the home of hostel-packed Kao San Road, Bangkok is sure to be on the travel itinerary for backpackers.
Making new friends has never been so easy, thanks to the friendly locals and the abundance of fellow solo travellersanywhere across the city. During the daytime, there’s lot to explore, like the Grand Palace, the famous Chatuchak weekend market, or the arty and chaotic alleys of Chinatown.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Ranked at number 2, the glittering skyline of Dubai is sure to attract any kind of traveller. Solo adventurers are in for a great time with a seemingly never-ending list of things to do: Shop-till-you-drop in one of the malls or a bazaar, go dunebashing in the desert, visit the world’s tallest building the Burj Khalifa, or meet locals and fellow travellers during frequently hosted quiz nights in one of the pubs. And after all that, there’s always the beach for some well-deserved relaxation.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Known for its warm hospitality, Kuala Lumpur is a haven for solo adventurers. With its mix of modern skyscrapers and historical treasures, there’s something for everyone. The city’s bustling street food stalls, vibrant markets, and iconic Petronas Twin Towers provide ample opportunities to go out and explore during the day. And you can even go on a hike within the city’s KL Forest Eco Park. At night, it will be a breeze to make new friends in the popular Changkat Bukit Bintang nightlife scene.
Gwalior serves as an exemplary example of living cultural heritage and it houses one of the biggest annual music festivals of India; The Tansen Sangeet Samaroh to celebrate the rich culture of Madhya Pradesh…reports Asian Lite News
UNESCO has included Gwalior as the city of Music under the Creative Cities Network (UCCN). 55 cities from all over the globe joined the UCCN. Gwalior was acknowledged for its strong commitment to harnessing culture and creativity as part of UNESCO’s development strategies, and displaying innovative practices in human-centred urban planning.
The project was led by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board in cooperation with the Municipal Corporation of Gwalior, Gwalior Smart City Development Corporation Limited, Raja Mansingh Tomar Music & Arts University, music artists and other stakeholders. The Network now includes 350 cities in over one hundred countries, representing seven creative fields: Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts and Music.
Since 2019, continuous efforts have been made including multiple stakeholder consultations and a dedicated feasibility study of the city to map the potential for UCCN membership followed by the drafting of the application. Gwalior serves as an exemplary example of living cultural heritage and it houses one of the biggest annual music festivals of India; The Tansen Sangeet Samaroh to celebrate the rich culture of Madhya Pradesh.
Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Department and Managing Director, MP Tourism Board Sheo Shekhar Shukla (IAS) quoted ‘Inclusion of Gwalior by UNESCO under the creative cities network is definitely a big shot in the arm which goes a long way to tell the whole world about the cultural richness of Madhya Pradesh. Gwalior being the city of Tansen, BaijuBawra, the birthplace of Dhrupad Music form and Gwalior Gharana, which are world known for musical practices and traditions which are alive even today, have been very persistently conserved and preserved and now on the occasion of Madhya Pradesh Foundation Day, it has been recognised by UNESCO by including Gwalior as a city of music.
I am sure the whole world will sit and take notice of the richness and a depth of the cultural diversity, cultural richness of Madhya Pradesh in general and Gwalior in particular. This will also go a long way in boosting international tourism in the city of Gwalior and also bringing them to showcase best of the architectural and heritage assets.
It is a great opportunity for Madhya Pradesh and we are very thankful to UNESCO, Minister of Culture, and Government of India and to the city of Gwalior and all the people who have ever, in anyway associated with Gwalior. As a city of music, It is a massive achievement for everyone who is concerned with music and Gwalior.
Joint Director, Planning, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Prashant Singh Baghel highlighted ‘Through the designation to the UCCN, we envision the realisation of the city’s goals towards achieving overall sustainable development with music as the key driver. This includes the creation of new economic and artistic opportunities for the local youth; making the city an education hub for music, cultural infrastructure development, linking of the music sector with tourism, urban renewal and mobility and enhancing access to arts and culture.’
Not to be cliche, but in this town, the party never ends. Check out the infamous nightlife of goa, do some beach-hopping, and definitely don’t miss out on the endless beachfront parties…reports Asian Lite News
There’s no greater joy than sipping a refreshing drink, lounging by the beach, and talking about everything under the sun with your girls by your side! As you get ready with your lehengas and mehendi, there is one thing left for you to do before you switch from Ms. to Mrs.
It’s time to celebrate your last few days of singledom. And what’s the ultimate way to do that? A bachelorette party, of course.
A proper bachelorette needs three things: exquisite drinks, a touch of glam, and the perfect spot to let loose with your girl gang, without a care in the world. To ensure you not only have a blast but make life-long memories (or at least blurry ones you’ll laugh about later), CRED shares with IANSlife a list of four places in India that will give you the ideal break you need, right before the wedding chaos ensues.
Goa
Not to be cliche, but in this town, the party never ends. Check out the infamous nightlife of goa, do some beach-hopping, and definitely don’t miss out on the endless beachfront parties.
Book a luxurious villa (We suggest Elivaas Bauhinia Luxurious Villa with Private Pool) for you and your ladies and make sure you use the spa. After you’ve had your fill, head on to South Goa to get away from the crowd, walk along the quieter beaches like the Betalbatim beach, and let yourself soak it all in. Let go of your fears, and stress, and spend the last days with your girls.
Pondicherry
A quaint little French town full of small bakeries, bohemian clothes, and beautiful, pristine beaches, Pondicherry cannot be missed when it comes to planning a bachelorette. The artistic cafes will make the perfect backdrop for all your Instagram pictures and the pleasant weather will ruffle your hair in the right ways. You can end the day by setting up a beach bonfire for a cozy and memorable gathering by the sea. Check out properties like Le Pondy, Accord Puducherry, Maison Perumal CGH Earth, or Palais de Mahe CGH Earth for a comfortable stay.
Manali
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is yet another perfect destination for a girls’ getaway. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, this charming town offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Dive into thrilling activities like river rafting and paragliding, explore the vibrant markets, and make sure to unwind in natural hot springs. With cozy cafes, stunning views, and a laid-back vibe, Manali creates the ideal backdrop for unforgettable moments with your girl gang. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Manali has it all. Check out Larisa Resort, Club Mahindra Snow Peaks Resort or The Orchid Hotel.
Nashik
If you’re looking to have some downtime with your girls, the Wine capital of India should surely be on your list. Nashik, not too far from Mumbai, makes for an ideal short bachelorette trip where you can enjoy leisurely strolls along vineyards, scenic sunsets and wine tasting sessions with your gang. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, then try the white-water river rafting Nashik is famous for or challenge your friends to a grape stomping competition at the Soma Vine village. Check out the Grape County Eco Resort for a comfortable, luxurious stay.
Now, pack your favorite dresses, grab your suitcase and head out on a trip unlike any other. Happy Bachelorette!
On Saturday, protesters gathered in large numbers outside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence..reports Asian Lite News
In the normal course, the full-service carrier operates five weekly flights from the national capital to Tel Aviv. The airline offers service on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.
Air India has suspended its scheduled flights to Tel Aviv till November 30 amid the tensions between Israel and Hamas militant group in Gaza. Since October 7, the day Hamas militants stormed into Israeli territory and killed hundreds, Air India has not operated a scheduled flight to and from Tel Aviv.
In the normal course, the full-service carrier operates five weekly flights from the national capital to Tel Aviv. The airline offers service on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.
Under the Indian government’s Operation Ajay, Air India operated a few chartered flights from the national capital to Tel Aviv last month to bring back Indians who wished to come back from Israel against the backdrop of the escalating conflict.
Israel has launched an intense air and ground offensive in Gaza since the initial Hamas attack, killing over 9,000 people according to health authorities in the Hamas-run area. Large areas of the Gaza enclave have turned to rubble.
Thousands of protestors demonstrated in Tel Aviv, waved flags and held photographs of some of the captives in Gaza on November 4. Public fury and anger are growing among the citizens of Israel who are calling for their relatives, taken captives by Hamas, to be brought home.
On Saturday, protesters gathered in large numbers outside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence. They also raised slogans such as “release the hostages now at all costs” and brought with them posters delivering the same message while crowds chanted, “bring them home now.” This protest coincided with a poll indicating that over three quarters of Israelis believe Netanyahu should resign.
Fully bespoke rare experiences are curated for every guest, reconnecting them with the abundant nature that surrounds the island…reports Asian Lite News
Soneva, the world-leading sustainable resorts operator, has revealed the launch of the new, ultra-bespoke Soneva Secret. Located in HaaDhaalu, the Maldives’ most remote atoll, the debut Soneva Secret 2024 will welcome its first guests on January 10, 2024. Thirty years in the making, the resort concept builds upon Soneva’s experience at the forefront of exceptional hospitality, and will set a new, unmatched standard in intuitive, personalised service, exquisite private villas and unspoiled settings, surrounded by nature.
Soneva Secret 2024 features just 14 beach and overwater villas, including lagoon Crusoe Villas, accessible only by boat, and the Castaway, the Maldives’ first floating villa. Each is designed in perfect harmony with the untouched natural setting, with direct access to the white sand beach or sparkling lagoon. As well as vast master suites, including a roof that slides to reveal star-strewn skies, every villa also features adjoining bedrooms, offering ample space for families or additional guests.
Soneva’s superlative service reaches new heights at Soneva Secret 2024, with a dedicated Barefoot Guardian and Barefoot Assistant for every villa, curating an utterly personalised stay and one-of-a-kind, rare experiences for every guest. The resort’s 14 private chefs, one for each villa, craft bespoke menus and unique culinary journeys, whether savoured in the privacy and comfort of the villa or enjoyed in nature at the island’s most picturesque spots.
Other dining experiences will include Out of This World, a castaway dining tower, observatory and wine cellar in the lagoon, reachable by zipline; a toes-in-the-sand firepit dining experience at So Primitive; and The Living Room, the island hub and casual dining and lounge venue, which is also home to a library, boutique and Soneva’s renowned ice cream, chocolate and cheese and charcuterie rooms.
Fully bespoke rare experiences are curated for every guest, reconnecting them with the abundant nature that surrounds the island. An underwater haven, the crystal-clear waters are home to colonies of majestic manta rays, pods of curious dolphins and gentle whale sharks, alongside shoals of colourful tropical fish. Family experiences go far beyond The Den, whether picnics on castaway shores, sunset dolphin cruises, guided snorkelling with the experienced Marine Biologist, or navigating the night skies with exceptionally clear views of the Milky Way with the resident Astronomer.
It can be reached via a scenic 75-minute seaplane flight direct from Velana International Airport in Malé, a 40-minute seaplane flight from Soneva Fushi in the Baa Atoll, a 30-minute seaplane flight from Soneva Jani in the Noonu Atoll, or a leisurely full-day cruise from Soneva Fushi onboard Soneva in Aqua. Guests can also fly directly into Kulhudhuffushi Airport in the HaaDhaalu Atoll and take a one-hour speedboat ride to the resort.
Indians are inherent foodies research confirms the same, with 59 percent of Indian travellers having booked a destination purely based on a restaurant they want to visit…reports Asian Lite News
Among the four key travel vibes, set-jetting took the lead in India, as travellers sought to immerse themselves into the iconic location of their favourite shows, embodying Main Character Energy. Seizing the spotlight as the top destination that Indians are inspired to visit in 2024 is Manali, India, with travellers influenced by Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani,followed by Ladakh, again in India, which inspires 47 percent of the travellers to visit the mesmerising city as seen in 3 Idiots. Claiming the next spot is London in the United Kingdom, with 43 percent of Indian travellers seeking to add a royal flair to their life as seen in The Crown, and the enchanting city of Paris in France, with 42 percent of Indian travellers wanting to experience the city like Emily Cooper, as seen in Emily in Paris revealed SkyscannerWhether it’s gig tripping or visiting the realm of sleep, global travel site Skyscanner shares the latest trends shaping industry and traveller behaviour in its “Travel Trends: Redefining value through experience in 2024” report. Blending proprietary flights and hotel data based on millions of searches with an annual consumer behaviour study[1] and expert commentary, the report reveals 2024’s hottest travel vibes and types, as well as the top 10 trending destinations and best-value destinations.Data from the report reveals that film and entertainment have a significant influence on Indian travellers, with 94 percent of them inclined to take a trip to a destination they’ve seen on the big or small screen. Moreover, close to half (43 percent) of the respondents rate the overall ‘vibe’ of a destination as important, when choosing where to go in 2024.
Just like Main Character Energy, data shows how the value of experiences is fuelling a range of other travel trends and vibes for 2024, with price no longer solely ruling decision-making:Gig tripping – One-third of Indian (37 percent) travellers would fly short haul to see their favourite artist live with a huge 79 percent considering attending a concert overseas instead in 2024 if it would help them save money.Budget bougie foodies – Indians are inherent foodies research confirms the same, with 59 percent of Indian travellers having booked a destination purely based on a restaurant they want to visit. Osaka, renowned as ‘the kitchen of Japan’ with the fourth rank in the world for cities with the most Michelin stars, claims the top spot on Skyscanner’s global list for foodies on a budget in 2024 and is also one of the top trending destinations amongst Indian travellers.Destination Zzzz – Citing it as one of the top activities for their next holiday, Indian travellers really just want to visit the realm of sleep in 2024. Sleep health generally is a hot topic and 85 percent of Indian travellers are more mindful of their sleep health today compared to a few years ago. Moreover, 66 percent of Indian travellers have reported experiencing improved sleep quality during their holidays.What’s more, with the thirst for experiences that drive greater lifestyle value, it saw the following traveller types emerging in 2024: Analogue adventurers – In an age of always-on and constant hype, Gen Z are craving old-school analogue adventures that ditch the digital device in favour of how it used to be done. In fact, one in four (24 percent) Indian travellers aged 18 to 24 years old now bring a Polaroid camera with them on holiday.Celebration vacationers – Indian travellers increasingly want to celebrate big milestones in style. 81% of Indian travellers have taken a group trip to celebrate a birthday or anniversary. That being said, it can be tricky to arrange group travel – from deciding on where and when to go, to agreeing on costs. 52 percent of Indian travellers said that finalising a destination is their primary hurdle when planning group trips, followed by deciding on the travel dates (48 percent), and agreeing on the expected costs of the trip (45 percent).Luxe-for-less seekers – While the price may always be a factor when it comes to travel planning, it seems Indian travellers are still willing to splurge on comforts. 37 percent of Indian travellers plan to upgrade their flight to business or first class in 2024, while 44 percent plan to purchase airport lounge access to get their trip off to a great start.
India’s Top Trending and Best Value Destinations
The 2024 report reveals that 86 percent of Indian travellers plan to take the same number, if not more, trips abroad in 2024 compared to 2023. The most buzzing destinations for Indian travellers in 2024 are Da Nang in Vietnam, loved for its pristine beaches, Almaty in Kazakhstan, a captivating destination in Central Asia celebrated for its stunning natural scenes, and Baku in Azerbaijan, known for its exquisite blend of historical and modern architecture[2]. On the other hand, Nice in France came out top overall, securing the highest spot for the Best Value Destinations category, followed by Geneva in Switzerland, Tokyo in Japan, and Manama in Bahrain[3] (full overview in appendix).
Commenting on the findings, Mohit Joshi, Skyscanner Travel Trends and Destination Expert said, “The desire to explore and to make the best out of holidays with richer, more fulfilling experiences is evident among Indian travellers, as they (63 percent) are budgeting to spend more on travel in 2024. The strong demand for travel in India, coupled with the focus on cultural exploration next year, are reasons why a travel metasearch like Skyscanner can bring value to Indian travellers. Try the ‘Explore Everywhere’ search feature, for example, to discover destinations ranked by prices. With our tools, travellers will realise that there are many ways to bag a bargain so that allowances can be made to spend on the comfort they are after.”
Shruti Shibulal said working smart and having a work-life balance is more important than putting in specified hours of work per week..writes Venkatachari Jagannathan
Hospitality major Tamara Leisure Experiences Private Ltd owning and running hotels, resorts in India and Germany is looking at expansion through management contracts, said Shruti Shibulal, Director and Chief Executive Officer, the daughter of S.D Shibulal, one of the founders of software major Infosys Ltd.
She also said working smart and having a work-life balance is more important than putting in specified hours of work per week.
The 11 year old company owns 1,000 room keys under its four brands in India and Germany (where four owned properties are under management contracts).
“In India we will be closing 2023 with close to 600 room keys. We are moving towards 1,000 room keys in India,” Shruti told IANS after the launch of the company’s 141 rooms business hotel `O by Tamara’ in Coimbatore on Tuesday.
Tamara Leisure bought an existing hotel property in Coimbatore last year and launched it under its brand after a complete renovation.
In India the company’s properties – hotels, resorts and Ayurvedic Hospital- are in South India and going forward the expansion would happen in other parts of the country and overseas the expansion will largely be in Europe.
According to her, the company will be building a new hotel under its Lilac brand in Bodh Gaya.
This is in addition to the upcoming Lilac properties in Tamil Nadu’s Kumbakonam and Velankanni and in Kerala’s Guruvayoor and Kannur and existing two hotels in Bengaluru.
“We now have the confidence of getting into management contracts with existing hotel owners with our Lilac brand and go for asset light expansion model. Talks are already on with some property owners,” she said.
Queried about the rationale for having multiple brands – Tamara for resorts, O by Tamara for business and leisure segment, Lilac for mid segment and Amal Tamara, an Ayurvedic Hospital – instead of focusing and growing one or two brands Shruti said: “It is a brand risk diversification strategy.”
She said that having the company’s hotel properties in Germany being managed by brands like Holiday Inn Express, Courtyard By Marriott is also part of risk diversification strategy.
Shruti when queried about the 70 hour per week work a view expressed by N.R.Narayana Murthy, one of the Co-Founders of Infosys replied that one should work smart. The work should be smart and collaborative and not the number of hours. And also work-life balance is important.
“In our organisation we value work-life balance,” Shruti who is the over 1,000 employee Tamara Leisure added.
The awards were given at the valedictory session at the Urban Mobility India conference and exhibition which concluded on Sunday night….reports Asian Lite News
Kochi has won the country’s top award with the city’s Water Metro project being rated as the Best Green Transport Initiative in India while Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh has won the award for the most innovative financing mechanism for its city transport services.
The awards were given at the valedictory session at the Urban Mobility India conference and exhibition which concluded on Sunday night. Cities in the other categories that won awards include Srinagar Smart City for the Best Public Transport System and Shillong for the Best Record of Public Involvement.
While speaking at the valedictory session, Secretary Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs Manoj Joshi underlined the importance of smart cards as a convenient and efficient means of payment for commuters.
He said that the government is working on the adoption of the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) which has the potential to enhance the interoperability of various modes of urban transport.
Highlighting the importance of an effective fare collection system, Joshi said that the good fare collection is paramount for a viable transport system. He also talked about harnessing the potential of real estate around roads for better financial viability of these projects.
The financing and viability of urban transport projects were explored in depth. Joshi stressed the need for innovative funding mechanisms and public-private partnerships to meet the growing demands of urban transportation infrastructure.
The Secretary also highlighted the importance of electric vehicle adoption to reduce emissions and encouraged urban areas to invest in EV infrastructure.
