Best Regional Outbound Tour Operator- Great India Tour Company
Best National Outbound Tour Operator - SOTC
Best Regional Inbound Tour Operator - Swagatam Tours & Travels
Best National Inbound Tour Operator - SITA Incoming
Best Domestic Tour Operator - Cox & Kings
Best Business Travel Operator - Carlson Wagonlit
Best State Tourism Board - Kerala
Best International Tourism Board - Tourism Malaysia
Best Premier Hotel Brand - ITC Welcomgroup
Best First Class Hotel Brand - Trident Hilton
Best Heritage Hotel Brand - WelcomHeritage
Best Franchise Hotel Brand - Quality Inn (Choice Hospitality)
Best Domestic Full Service Carrier - Jet Airways
Best Domestic Low Cost Carrier - Air Deccan
Best East-Bound Airline from India - Singapore Airlines
Best West-Bound Airline from India - Air India
Best Technology Programme - Cox & Kings
Beat Visual Advertising Campaign - Kerala Tourism
Most Innovative Product Launch - BTI Sita
Best Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative - Air India
Tata AIG Lifetime Achievement Award - PRS Oberoi
Editors Choice Award - Kingfisher Airlines
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Realty Check
With the Government's unflagging hard work and incredible efforts from generation to generation, the country's hospitality sector - travel and tourism industry has turned into a new phase, which has resulted in India being recognized by the entire world as an exciting place to visit.
'The Readers Travel Awards 2006', conducted by Conde Nast Traveller has recently placed India at number four among the world's must-see countries, up from number nine in 2003. This has also furthered its impression as a leisure destination.
India's hospitality sector has grown in an unprecedented manner during the last few years if not decades, and has become one of the fastest and leading global players. This has been the result of a strong performance of the corporate sector in the country and largely a sense of sanguinity with regard to economy.
And why not? This sector enjoys offering the country a promising and largest number of employees in both the organized and the unorganized sector. Of this, the travel and tourism industry accounts for one of every nine job opportunities created in the country, aggregating 20 million. According to industry analysis, globalisation and liberalisation of every single industry/units and the recent introduction of 'Look East Policy' and 'Open Skies Policy' by the Government of India has brought and will keep bringing a new dimension and impetus to the hospitality sector.
With 4.4 millions tourists' arrival in the country last year, the industry has been seeing unprecedented growth with an average of 15 per cent every year. This figure is expected to grow further in the coming years. The Capital has also witnessed 32.1 per cent growth in tourists' arrival in the last year. The cities of Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata have shown a growth of 25.0%, 10.0% and 2.9% respectively.
Even though India has witnessed a great changing and doubling of foreign exchange earning (6.70) in the industry, some hoteliers and experts of the industry think otherwise. Says Mr. Rajindera Kumar, director of The Ambassador Hotel, in New Delhi and President of 'The Hotel & Restaurant Association of Northern India' (HRANI), "Although we are talking more of the growth and boom in the hospitality industry, there is another side that one has to see."
He is of the view that the Government's imposition of different taxes and irrational treatment of low star hotels are of great concern. He feels that the Government should come out with a strong suggestion and open agenda that should be something that the hotelier can rely upon. The high rocketing price of taxations has unnecessarily caused/created great worry to the tourists and travellers, which made them ultimately opt for other destinations. "The government should try to nationalize and make its taxation norms more convenient," he said.
Mr. Kumar also explains that the present auction[ing] of hotel sites at an unreasonable price by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has also created a lot of hurdles, in which there is no justification of higher prices. The government should stop it and instead should regulate more to the low star hotel giving more rooms than the present available hotel rooms of around 15,000, which is expected to reach 25,000 -30,000 in 2010 in the city. Talking about the Government's proposal of 'paying guest house' project, Kumar describes, "It should clearly justify the norms to be given to the owner and for how long."
Agreeing with the words of Kumar, Rajesh Mishra, President of Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), says that higher taxations and differences in taxes charged by different states and the lack of proper infrastructure is a grave matter of concern for the growth of the industry. He demands that infrastructure building should be given priority under Sec. 80 IA of Indian Income Tax, 1961 by the Government.
"VAT, F&B, Entertainment taxes should be cut down in minimum levels that would provide some kind of relief to the hoteliers as well as tourists," he avers.
Mr. Mishra also insists that the Government should make a uniform policy and that the legislative should be more sympathetic to the industry, without which the foreign tourists and travellers will be off to cheaper destinations at neighbouring countries.
Taking a strong exception of Government policies, Mr. Manbeer Choudhary, ex-president of the FHRAI and the President of the 'Hotel and Restaurant Association of Haryana, expresses his disappointment at the lack of coordination between the Government and the private sector.
He says, "No concrete tourism policy at national and state level, critical urgency to rationalize tax structures, high cost of land in metros leading to higher room traffics, lackadaisical attitude of the state governments towards the importance to tourism, red-tapism and bureaucratic approach are few of the things which have resulted in delays in tourism products."
He also asserted that the inadequate infrastructure, like underdeveloped airports and other connectivity steps like roads/metro linkages and lack of hotel rooms in the country were a major pointer toward this.
However, Mr. Choudhary describes that domestic tourism in India has come of age and it is touching new heights and that hotels of all segments are reporting strong occupancies and average rate. "I would say that a buoyant domestic economy, the aviation and real estate boom, initiatives to liberalize foreign investment and improve infrastructure and perhaps, most importantly, the efforts to communicate the Brand India message have contributed to strong demand conditions in most cities across the country.
The result is that India is today one of the world's fastest growing hotel markets," he tells. According to him, the last three years have been particularly exciting with the industry performing exceptionally well and more interestingly, it has taken us approximately 11 years to reach or exceed the previous occupancy highs seen in the mid nineties. He feels that the current trends will continue and present a bright future for the hotel industry in India.
Talking about the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, Mr. Choudhary explains that Commonwealth Games is like a shot in the arm of this tourism industry as it has accelerated the construction and the progress of infrastructure like the airports, flyovers, connectivity by metro rail and road to be enhanced and overcoming shortage of hotel rooms in the NCR.
He believes that this wealth of improved infrastructure and new hotels besides cleaning up the city like Delhi will leave a remarkable impact on the visiting tourists. He adds that the most important gain is that the demand -supply imbalance in a city like Delhi, where Hotels have been charging very high tariff
The recent plans and initiatives under the stewardship of Tourism Minister Ambika Soni, for example, visa on arrival for the foreign traveller, improving infrastructure status for the hotel industry, modernization of airports and construction of more International Airports in major towns, encouragement of public private partnership, involving private sector in decision making by encouraging various association of the trade are of great encouragement to the industry.
So as a industry which is not only linked to luxury or is not just a service provider but also an industry which is an employment generator, the government needs to realize that tourism alone has the capacity to stimulate wide spread direct private sector investment. With effective planning and development one can make more productive and valuable use of the country's vast continental landmass where other development may not be feasible. Also, the government's own efforts can covert this tourism into a money spinner sector as tourism has been aptly describe as "one of the most remarkable economic and social phenomena of the last century."
So what are we waiting for?
By Leichombam Kullajit
(The writer is a seasoned journalist with expertise in hospitality and travel trade)
'The Readers Travel Awards 2006', conducted by Conde Nast Traveller has recently placed India at number four among the world's must-see countries, up from number nine in 2003. This has also furthered its impression as a leisure destination.
India's hospitality sector has grown in an unprecedented manner during the last few years if not decades, and has become one of the fastest and leading global players. This has been the result of a strong performance of the corporate sector in the country and largely a sense of sanguinity with regard to economy.
And why not? This sector enjoys offering the country a promising and largest number of employees in both the organized and the unorganized sector. Of this, the travel and tourism industry accounts for one of every nine job opportunities created in the country, aggregating 20 million. According to industry analysis, globalisation and liberalisation of every single industry/units and the recent introduction of 'Look East Policy' and 'Open Skies Policy' by the Government of India has brought and will keep bringing a new dimension and impetus to the hospitality sector.
With 4.4 millions tourists' arrival in the country last year, the industry has been seeing unprecedented growth with an average of 15 per cent every year. This figure is expected to grow further in the coming years. The Capital has also witnessed 32.1 per cent growth in tourists' arrival in the last year. The cities of Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata have shown a growth of 25.0%, 10.0% and 2.9% respectively.
Even though India has witnessed a great changing and doubling of foreign exchange earning (6.70) in the industry, some hoteliers and experts of the industry think otherwise. Says Mr. Rajindera Kumar, director of The Ambassador Hotel, in New Delhi and President of 'The Hotel & Restaurant Association of Northern India' (HRANI), "Although we are talking more of the growth and boom in the hospitality industry, there is another side that one has to see."
He is of the view that the Government's imposition of different taxes and irrational treatment of low star hotels are of great concern. He feels that the Government should come out with a strong suggestion and open agenda that should be something that the hotelier can rely upon. The high rocketing price of taxations has unnecessarily caused/created great worry to the tourists and travellers, which made them ultimately opt for other destinations. "The government should try to nationalize and make its taxation norms more convenient," he said.
Mr. Kumar also explains that the present auction[ing] of hotel sites at an unreasonable price by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has also created a lot of hurdles, in which there is no justification of higher prices. The government should stop it and instead should regulate more to the low star hotel giving more rooms than the present available hotel rooms of around 15,000, which is expected to reach 25,000 -30,000 in 2010 in the city. Talking about the Government's proposal of 'paying guest house' project, Kumar describes, "It should clearly justify the norms to be given to the owner and for how long."
Agreeing with the words of Kumar, Rajesh Mishra, President of Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), says that higher taxations and differences in taxes charged by different states and the lack of proper infrastructure is a grave matter of concern for the growth of the industry. He demands that infrastructure building should be given priority under Sec. 80 IA of Indian Income Tax, 1961 by the Government.
"VAT, F&B, Entertainment taxes should be cut down in minimum levels that would provide some kind of relief to the hoteliers as well as tourists," he avers.
Mr. Mishra also insists that the Government should make a uniform policy and that the legislative should be more sympathetic to the industry, without which the foreign tourists and travellers will be off to cheaper destinations at neighbouring countries.
Taking a strong exception of Government policies, Mr. Manbeer Choudhary, ex-president of the FHRAI and the President of the 'Hotel and Restaurant Association of Haryana, expresses his disappointment at the lack of coordination between the Government and the private sector.
He says, "No concrete tourism policy at national and state level, critical urgency to rationalize tax structures, high cost of land in metros leading to higher room traffics, lackadaisical attitude of the state governments towards the importance to tourism, red-tapism and bureaucratic approach are few of the things which have resulted in delays in tourism products."
He also asserted that the inadequate infrastructure, like underdeveloped airports and other connectivity steps like roads/metro linkages and lack of hotel rooms in the country were a major pointer toward this.
However, Mr. Choudhary describes that domestic tourism in India has come of age and it is touching new heights and that hotels of all segments are reporting strong occupancies and average rate. "I would say that a buoyant domestic economy, the aviation and real estate boom, initiatives to liberalize foreign investment and improve infrastructure and perhaps, most importantly, the efforts to communicate the Brand India message have contributed to strong demand conditions in most cities across the country.
The result is that India is today one of the world's fastest growing hotel markets," he tells. According to him, the last three years have been particularly exciting with the industry performing exceptionally well and more interestingly, it has taken us approximately 11 years to reach or exceed the previous occupancy highs seen in the mid nineties. He feels that the current trends will continue and present a bright future for the hotel industry in India.
Talking about the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, Mr. Choudhary explains that Commonwealth Games is like a shot in the arm of this tourism industry as it has accelerated the construction and the progress of infrastructure like the airports, flyovers, connectivity by metro rail and road to be enhanced and overcoming shortage of hotel rooms in the NCR.
He believes that this wealth of improved infrastructure and new hotels besides cleaning up the city like Delhi will leave a remarkable impact on the visiting tourists. He adds that the most important gain is that the demand -supply imbalance in a city like Delhi, where Hotels have been charging very high tariff
The recent plans and initiatives under the stewardship of Tourism Minister Ambika Soni, for example, visa on arrival for the foreign traveller, improving infrastructure status for the hotel industry, modernization of airports and construction of more International Airports in major towns, encouragement of public private partnership, involving private sector in decision making by encouraging various association of the trade are of great encouragement to the industry.
So as a industry which is not only linked to luxury or is not just a service provider but also an industry which is an employment generator, the government needs to realize that tourism alone has the capacity to stimulate wide spread direct private sector investment. With effective planning and development one can make more productive and valuable use of the country's vast continental landmass where other development may not be feasible. Also, the government's own efforts can covert this tourism into a money spinner sector as tourism has been aptly describe as "one of the most remarkable economic and social phenomena of the last century."
So what are we waiting for?
By Leichombam Kullajit
(The writer is a seasoned journalist with expertise in hospitality and travel trade)
Controversy in use of Latex Gloves in Kitchens
The State of Oregon in USA has joined a handful of other states in USA that have prohibited use of latex gloves in foodservice facilities. Studies have identified latex as an allergen for a small percentage of the population. The possibility that allergens can be transferred from gloves to food also is a concern.
The Oregon Restaurant Association (ORA) lobbied against the prohibition. "We aren't convinced the legislation is necessary," says Bill Perry, director of government relations for the organization, which argued that restaurateurs voluntarily could eliminate latex-glove use where allergy concerns exist. Additionally, ORA questioned the fairness of limiting the prohibition to foodservice. The new law does not cover healthcare workers, although the Occupational Health & Safety Administration (OSHA) estimates that 8% to 12% of workers in the profession are latex-sensitive.
Oregon Department of Human Services estimates that half of all foodservice facilities use latex rubber gloves. For those that do, the legislation will require some retraining, says Perry. Form-fitting gloves, including those made from latex, often are preferred according to ORA’s feedback, but “they will simply have to adjust" to using single-use gloves in the coming months.
CONFUSING RULES
Differences in state regulations in USA concerning latex glove use make it difficult for multistate chain operators to develop a single standard for their systems. The 2001 Food and Drug Administration Food Code prohibits foodservice employees from bare-handed contact with ready-to-eat foods, mandating that "deli tissue, spatulas, tongs, single-use gloves or dispensing equipment" be used. For food that is not ready to eat, the requirement is that bare-hand contact be minimized. The code's only prohibition relates to use of cloth gloves for food handlers. To get round this confusion, some states like Massachusetts’ Department of Public Health and Wisconsin’s Department of Health and Family Services have followed the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health’s lead in recommending – but not requiring – that latex gloves not be used in foodservice.
The Oregon Restaurant Association (ORA) lobbied against the prohibition. "We aren't convinced the legislation is necessary," says Bill Perry, director of government relations for the organization, which argued that restaurateurs voluntarily could eliminate latex-glove use where allergy concerns exist. Additionally, ORA questioned the fairness of limiting the prohibition to foodservice. The new law does not cover healthcare workers, although the Occupational Health & Safety Administration (OSHA) estimates that 8% to 12% of workers in the profession are latex-sensitive.
Oregon Department of Human Services estimates that half of all foodservice facilities use latex rubber gloves. For those that do, the legislation will require some retraining, says Perry. Form-fitting gloves, including those made from latex, often are preferred according to ORA’s feedback, but “they will simply have to adjust" to using single-use gloves in the coming months.
CONFUSING RULES
Differences in state regulations in USA concerning latex glove use make it difficult for multistate chain operators to develop a single standard for their systems. The 2001 Food and Drug Administration Food Code prohibits foodservice employees from bare-handed contact with ready-to-eat foods, mandating that "deli tissue, spatulas, tongs, single-use gloves or dispensing equipment" be used. For food that is not ready to eat, the requirement is that bare-hand contact be minimized. The code's only prohibition relates to use of cloth gloves for food handlers. To get round this confusion, some states like Massachusetts’ Department of Public Health and Wisconsin’s Department of Health and Family Services have followed the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health’s lead in recommending – but not requiring – that latex gloves not be used in foodservice.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Kingfisher inititates customer friendly world class services
Kingfisher Airlines has announced the launch of two world-class technological innovations to enhance guest convenience.
The first cutting-edge innovation is the introduction of the 'Roving Agent' at the airport. Now guests with hand baggage need not have to wait at the check-in counter to collect their boarding pass, instead they can directly approach the kingfisher Airline's Roving Agents deployed outside the security check-in area who will book them on their choice of seats. Also launched is the facility of 'Web Check-in'. Now Kingfisher Airlines' guests can sit in the comfort of their homes or offices and print their boarding passes. All a guest has to do is log on to the official website of Kingfisher Airlines, www.flykingfisher.com, and click on the link-web check-in. Fill-in your reservation details and the screen will display the choice of seats available onboard that particular flight.
Once booked, the guest can conveniently print out the boarding pass and carry it along with him/her on the day of the flight and proceed straight to the security check counter at the airport.
The first cutting-edge innovation is the introduction of the 'Roving Agent' at the airport. Now guests with hand baggage need not have to wait at the check-in counter to collect their boarding pass, instead they can directly approach the kingfisher Airline's Roving Agents deployed outside the security check-in area who will book them on their choice of seats. Also launched is the facility of 'Web Check-in'. Now Kingfisher Airlines' guests can sit in the comfort of their homes or offices and print their boarding passes. All a guest has to do is log on to the official website of Kingfisher Airlines, www.flykingfisher.com, and click on the link-web check-in. Fill-in your reservation details and the screen will display the choice of seats available onboard that particular flight.
Once booked, the guest can conveniently print out the boarding pass and carry it along with him/her on the day of the flight and proceed straight to the security check counter at the airport.
Tourist influx sees hotel rates kissing the sky
The flavour of the season seems to be turning sour - at least for a growing lot of tourists and tour operators across the globe. The growing gap between increase in in-bound tourist traffic and availability of hotel rooms has led to room rents touching an all-time high, blunting India's attractiveness as a cost -effective tourist destination.
In Delhi alone, average room rates is hovering in the region of $310-350 a night, while it has already scaled past the $350-mark in Mumbai and over $500 in Bangalore. In comparison, a decent luxury hotel in Bangkok can be booked for around $100 a night.
The result: A growing number of tour operators in the western world are beginning to stop hardselling India as an ideal vacation destination this winter - a peak travel season among foreigners. And industry insiders say operators are asking hotels to revise rates else India would vanish from overseas travel brochures for next winter. "Most of these package rates are booked a year in advance so that operators can prepare their brochures for next year. We are already getting complaints from operators abroad that India is out-pricing itself, which may force them to black-out India from 2007 brochures," says an industry source.
UK-based tour operators have even shot-off emails to Indian agents saying the 2007 rates are too high to be acceptable to the travelling public. "At these rates, can we continue to sell India effectively?" The domestic travel industry blames it on non-availability of enough rooms to meet the growing demand. "Room rates are climbing every year as demand far exceeds supply," says Kuoni India in-bound COO Himmant Anand. "The room rates are already at an all-time high, and by the looks of it, the rates are only going to head northwards next year," he adds.
Occupancy levels at most hotels, insiders say, today average at around 80-85% through the year. And the future only looks brighter, thanks to the host of conferences and trade shows beings hosted in the city. The growing corporate activity in the country -which resulted in higher corporate travel -ensures that all hotels are choc-a-block even during lean travel months. And this, in turn, ensures that room rates keep climbing all through the year.
Unless corrected, this steady climb in room rates, industry watchers warn, may force firms to relook at their travel plans and use video-conferencing facilities for conducting business in India. But the hospitality industry feels there's no cause for concern not yet. "Tourist arrival figures into India have not shown any decline as yet. Even this year, we have seen a 15-20% rise in arrivals despite room rates climbing an average 20% every season," says ITC Maurya Sheraton's Deepak Haksar.
The fact that India's pulling power as a destination still rules strong, says Pradeep Kalra, V-P (Sales & marketing) at Sarovar Hotels, will ensure that tourists keep flocking the destination. And the climbing rates will also help upgrade the profile of travellers to India. "It's high time, India looked at upgrading the profile of tourists who come to the country. We have for long been attracting backpackers. Now, the high rates will ensure that we get more premium and hi-end travellers, " he adds.
In Delhi alone, average room rates is hovering in the region of $310-350 a night, while it has already scaled past the $350-mark in Mumbai and over $500 in Bangalore. In comparison, a decent luxury hotel in Bangkok can be booked for around $100 a night.
The result: A growing number of tour operators in the western world are beginning to stop hardselling India as an ideal vacation destination this winter - a peak travel season among foreigners. And industry insiders say operators are asking hotels to revise rates else India would vanish from overseas travel brochures for next winter. "Most of these package rates are booked a year in advance so that operators can prepare their brochures for next year. We are already getting complaints from operators abroad that India is out-pricing itself, which may force them to black-out India from 2007 brochures," says an industry source.
UK-based tour operators have even shot-off emails to Indian agents saying the 2007 rates are too high to be acceptable to the travelling public. "At these rates, can we continue to sell India effectively?" The domestic travel industry blames it on non-availability of enough rooms to meet the growing demand. "Room rates are climbing every year as demand far exceeds supply," says Kuoni India in-bound COO Himmant Anand. "The room rates are already at an all-time high, and by the looks of it, the rates are only going to head northwards next year," he adds.
Occupancy levels at most hotels, insiders say, today average at around 80-85% through the year. And the future only looks brighter, thanks to the host of conferences and trade shows beings hosted in the city. The growing corporate activity in the country -which resulted in higher corporate travel -ensures that all hotels are choc-a-block even during lean travel months. And this, in turn, ensures that room rates keep climbing all through the year.
Unless corrected, this steady climb in room rates, industry watchers warn, may force firms to relook at their travel plans and use video-conferencing facilities for conducting business in India. But the hospitality industry feels there's no cause for concern not yet. "Tourist arrival figures into India have not shown any decline as yet. Even this year, we have seen a 15-20% rise in arrivals despite room rates climbing an average 20% every season," says ITC Maurya Sheraton's Deepak Haksar.
The fact that India's pulling power as a destination still rules strong, says Pradeep Kalra, V-P (Sales & marketing) at Sarovar Hotels, will ensure that tourists keep flocking the destination. And the climbing rates will also help upgrade the profile of travellers to India. "It's high time, India looked at upgrading the profile of tourists who come to the country. We have for long been attracting backpackers. Now, the high rates will ensure that we get more premium and hi-end travellers, " he adds.
Hilton Garden Inn® Beaumont in Texas Opens Doors to Guests
27 July 2007
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. | Hilton Garden Inn announced today the opening of the 100-room Hilton Garden Inn® Beaumont in Beaumont, Texas.
The Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont is operated by JaiMaha Laxmi, Inc., under a license agreement with Hilton Inns, Inc., a franchise subsidiary of Beverly Hills-based Hilton Hotels Corporation (NYSE:HLT).
“With communities like Beaumont experiencing growth in both business and population during recent years, Hilton Garden Inn is the ideal hotel product that can provide area visitors – both business and leisure -- just what they need,” said Adrian Kurre, senior vice president - brand management, Hilton Garden Inn.
The three-story Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont welcomes travelers with the latest in guestroom offerings, including the Garden Sleep SystemTM bed, ergonomic Mirra® chair by Herman Miller, high definition television and clock that enables guests to play their MP3 or portable CD player. The hotel features a signature glass-walled ‘Pavilion’ lobby housing the reception desk and lounge area with a television and fireplace; a Pavilion Pantry® with a selection of refrigerated, frozen and microwaveable packaged items, and sundries; Great American Grill® offering cooked-to-order breakfast and dinner; evening room service; four meeting rooms with 2,000 square feet of flexible meeting space; a 24-hour, complimentary business center; a workout facility, outdoor swimming pool and whirlpool; and an on-site guest laundry facility.
Guestroom features include: complimentary Wi-Fi and remote printing to the hotel’s business center; an oversized clutter-free work desk with plugs and electrical outlets at desk height; the Garden Sleep System bed and Mirra chair by Herman Miller; adjustable lighting; ample outlets throughout the room for cell phones and other portable electronics; and two telephones equipped with data ports and voice mail.
All guestrooms also offer: a “hospitality center” with a microwave oven, coffee maker and mini refrigerator; a sitting area with an easy chair and ottoman; a hairdryer; and an iron and ironing board. In-room entertainment and information services include video-on-demand movies, video games and interactive Hilton Garden Inn guest services.
Recreational facilities consist of a workout facility with state-of-the-art cardiovascular and strength training equipment, Stay Fit Kits® available for complimentary check-out from the front desk, an indoor swimming pool and whirlpool.
“The Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont hotel's residential feel will appeal greatly to corporate travelers conducting business in the area and leisure travelers visiting friends and relatives in the area,” said Brian Huguenard, general manager. “Our hotel is located near numerous office buildings and sports fields and a short driving distance to numerous and varied shopping, including the Parkdale Mall and Antique district.”
Members of the Hilton HHonors® guest reward program can also earn Points & Miles® for every qualifying stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont.
The Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont is located at 3755 I-H 10, Beaumont, TX 77705; phone: 409-842-5646; fax: 409-842-5694. The hotel is situated off Interstate 10 and Walden Rd at Exit 848.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hilton Garden Inn is the award-winning mid-priced brand that is part of Hilton Hotels Corporation; the leading global hospitality company, with more than 2,800 hotels and 490,000 rooms in more than 80 countries, including 150,000 team members world wide. Its portfolio includes many of the world's best known and most highly regarded hotel brands, including Hilton®, Conrad®, Doubletree®, Embassy Suites Hotels®, Hampton Inn®, Hampton Inn & Suites®, Hilton Garden Inn®, Hilton Grand VacationsTM, Homewood Suites by Hilton® and The Waldorf=Astoria Collection®.
For more information or to make reservations at the Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont, visit www.beaumont.stayhgi.com. To find out more about Hilton Garden Inn locations throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany and Italy or to find your next getaway, please visit http://www.StayHGI.com or call 1-877-STAY-HGI.
ORGANIZATION
Hilton Hotels Corporation
http://www.hiltonworldwide.com
9336 Civic Center Dr.
USA - Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Phone: +1 310-278-4321
Fax: +1 310-205-4599
Email: info@hilton.com
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. | Hilton Garden Inn announced today the opening of the 100-room Hilton Garden Inn® Beaumont in Beaumont, Texas.
The Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont is operated by JaiMaha Laxmi, Inc., under a license agreement with Hilton Inns, Inc., a franchise subsidiary of Beverly Hills-based Hilton Hotels Corporation (NYSE:HLT).
“With communities like Beaumont experiencing growth in both business and population during recent years, Hilton Garden Inn is the ideal hotel product that can provide area visitors – both business and leisure -- just what they need,” said Adrian Kurre, senior vice president - brand management, Hilton Garden Inn.
The three-story Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont welcomes travelers with the latest in guestroom offerings, including the Garden Sleep SystemTM bed, ergonomic Mirra® chair by Herman Miller, high definition television and clock that enables guests to play their MP3 or portable CD player. The hotel features a signature glass-walled ‘Pavilion’ lobby housing the reception desk and lounge area with a television and fireplace; a Pavilion Pantry® with a selection of refrigerated, frozen and microwaveable packaged items, and sundries; Great American Grill® offering cooked-to-order breakfast and dinner; evening room service; four meeting rooms with 2,000 square feet of flexible meeting space; a 24-hour, complimentary business center; a workout facility, outdoor swimming pool and whirlpool; and an on-site guest laundry facility.
Guestroom features include: complimentary Wi-Fi and remote printing to the hotel’s business center; an oversized clutter-free work desk with plugs and electrical outlets at desk height; the Garden Sleep System bed and Mirra chair by Herman Miller; adjustable lighting; ample outlets throughout the room for cell phones and other portable electronics; and two telephones equipped with data ports and voice mail.
All guestrooms also offer: a “hospitality center” with a microwave oven, coffee maker and mini refrigerator; a sitting area with an easy chair and ottoman; a hairdryer; and an iron and ironing board. In-room entertainment and information services include video-on-demand movies, video games and interactive Hilton Garden Inn guest services.
Recreational facilities consist of a workout facility with state-of-the-art cardiovascular and strength training equipment, Stay Fit Kits® available for complimentary check-out from the front desk, an indoor swimming pool and whirlpool.
“The Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont hotel's residential feel will appeal greatly to corporate travelers conducting business in the area and leisure travelers visiting friends and relatives in the area,” said Brian Huguenard, general manager. “Our hotel is located near numerous office buildings and sports fields and a short driving distance to numerous and varied shopping, including the Parkdale Mall and Antique district.”
Members of the Hilton HHonors® guest reward program can also earn Points & Miles® for every qualifying stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont.
The Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont is located at 3755 I-H 10, Beaumont, TX 77705; phone: 409-842-5646; fax: 409-842-5694. The hotel is situated off Interstate 10 and Walden Rd at Exit 848.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hilton Garden Inn is the award-winning mid-priced brand that is part of Hilton Hotels Corporation; the leading global hospitality company, with more than 2,800 hotels and 490,000 rooms in more than 80 countries, including 150,000 team members world wide. Its portfolio includes many of the world's best known and most highly regarded hotel brands, including Hilton®, Conrad®, Doubletree®, Embassy Suites Hotels®, Hampton Inn®, Hampton Inn & Suites®, Hilton Garden Inn®, Hilton Grand VacationsTM, Homewood Suites by Hilton® and The Waldorf=Astoria Collection®.
For more information or to make reservations at the Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont, visit www.beaumont.stayhgi.com. To find out more about Hilton Garden Inn locations throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany and Italy or to find your next getaway, please visit http://www.StayHGI.com or call 1-877-STAY-HGI.
ORGANIZATION
Hilton Hotels Corporation
http://www.hiltonworldwide.com
9336 Civic Center Dr.
USA - Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Phone: +1 310-278-4321
Fax: +1 310-205-4599
Email: info@hilton.com
Banyan Tree Spa
Banyan Tree Spa Sets Benchmark For Expansion In China With Opening Of Lijiang Spa Academy
30 July 2007
Lijiang, China | Banyan Tree Spa has extended its reach into China, where the Group has opened its first training facility for Chinese spa therapists. The Banyan Tree Lijiang Spa Academy aims to secure a dedicated supply of talented candidates well-versed to deliver the high service standards of the Banyan Tree experience.
This ground breaking development is a necessary move as Banyan Tree embarks on an aggressive expansion plan within China, as well as globally in the next five years. Banyan Tree Spa Sanya, China is slated to open in the fourth quarter of this year. Angsana Spa is in the process of opening Angsana Spa Hong Qiao, Shanghai in China in the third quarter of 2007.
Banyan Tree Lijiang Spa Academy
Soft opened in May 2007, Banyan Tree Lijiang Spa Academy is a unique facility to coach candidates in all areas of Banyan Tree Spa service delivery. The Academy is located in a custom-built compound located in Lijiang, Yunnan, where students undergo a rigorous training curriculum adapted to Chinese spa requirements.
Mr. Ravi Chandran, Managing Director of Spa Operations, Banyan Tree Spas and Angsana Spas, says, “As one of the world’s leading spa operators, Banyan Tree can attribute its success to the continued management, training and quality of our therapists. The Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket was a world-first for a resort, in achieving a fully trained, talented therapist base and establishing a world-class industry benchmark. This has helped us to enter new markets and grow from one Banyan Tree Spa in 1994 to over 50 Banyan Tree and Angsana Spas today. The Banyan Tree Lijiang Spa Academy is vital in our drive to identify and engage new candidates for the Chinese market and beyond.”
Fresh trainees are recruited from within China to undergo a pre-training 48-hour curriculum. Once the recruits are familiar with grooming standards, basic anatomy and physiology, and product knowledge they are committed to undergo about 480 hours of training over three months. Key elements that are essential in identifying recruits include enthusiasm, nurturing qualities, empathetic and keen interest to develop their potential with the company. Banyan Tree Spa rewards and retains its most promising recruits by offering extensive opportunities to further their career to the highest levels.
Banyan Tree Spa Academy, Phuket
The pioneering Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket was set up in 2001. The Banyan Tree Spa Academy Phuket trains a dedicated group of therapists for both Banyan Tree and Angsana Spas. The training programme encompasses all areas of spa therapy, including knowledge of the human anatomy and important pressure points, modern and traditional massage techniques, variation of body weight for different techniques, knowledge of skin epidermis and facial applications, properties of different herbs and spices, preparation of spa ingredients, setting up of treatment rooms and spa pavilions, and standard greeting procedures. The academy is accredited by Thailand’s Ministry of Education.
In November 2006, a new urban training centre, the Banyan Tree Thai Massage School in Bangkok, Thailand, was established to further identify recruits and train students in the art of Thai Massage.
Banyan Tree Spa has been honoured by awards including the recent Baccarat AsiaSpa Awards 2005 for Best In-Spa Training of the Year, and Travel Trade Gazette (TTG) Travel Awards 2005 for Best Spa Operator. In addition, Banyan Tree Spa Phuket has been awarded the distinction of Best Benefits Company by the Labour Relations Department of Thailand, which recognises the company’s practice to provide welfare and benefits beyond labour law requirements.
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About Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts
Banyan Tree offers an intimate retreat experience featuring its own signature blend of romance and Asian sensuality. The philosophy behind the hotels, resorts, spas and galleries is based on providing a place for rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul – a Sanctuary for the Senses.
Banyan Tree resorts are found in Phuket, Thailand (1994), Maldives Vabbinfaru (1995), Bintan, Indonesia (1995), Bangkok, Thailand (2002), Seychelles (2002), Ringha, China (2005), Lijiang, China (2006), Bahrain (2007) and Maldives Madivaru (2007). Flagship Banyan Tree Phuket was the first to introduce a tropical garden spa concept.
About Angsana Resorts & Spas
Launched in 2000, Angsana is the sister brand of Banyan Tree, inspired by the exotic Angsana Tree noted for its crown of golden flowers. Angsana resorts are designed as contemporary, chic and vibrant retreats to live life spontaneously and sense the moment.
Angsana resorts are found in Bintan, Indonesia (2000), Great Barrier Reef, Australia (2000), Bangalore, India (2001), Maldives Ihuru (2001) and Maldives Velavaru (2006).
In 2003, Colours of Angsana joined the Angsana portfolio. This boutique hotel collection appeals to the soft adventurer and cultural tourism sector. The current hotels are Gyalthang Dzong (Shangri-La, China), Deer Park Hotel (Giritale, Sri Lanka) and Maison Souvannaphoum (Luang Prabang, Laos).
To date, the Banyan Tree Group manages and/or has ownership interests in 22 resorts and hotels, 58 spas and 70 retail galleries and two golf courses.
ORGANIZATION
Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts
http://www.banyantree.com
Banyan Tree Building, 211 Upper Bukit Timah Road
Singapore, 588182
Singapore
Phone: +65.6849 5888/899
Fax: +65.64622800
Email: corporate@banyantree.com
30 July 2007
Lijiang, China | Banyan Tree Spa has extended its reach into China, where the Group has opened its first training facility for Chinese spa therapists. The Banyan Tree Lijiang Spa Academy aims to secure a dedicated supply of talented candidates well-versed to deliver the high service standards of the Banyan Tree experience.
This ground breaking development is a necessary move as Banyan Tree embarks on an aggressive expansion plan within China, as well as globally in the next five years. Banyan Tree Spa Sanya, China is slated to open in the fourth quarter of this year. Angsana Spa is in the process of opening Angsana Spa Hong Qiao, Shanghai in China in the third quarter of 2007.
Banyan Tree Lijiang Spa Academy
Soft opened in May 2007, Banyan Tree Lijiang Spa Academy is a unique facility to coach candidates in all areas of Banyan Tree Spa service delivery. The Academy is located in a custom-built compound located in Lijiang, Yunnan, where students undergo a rigorous training curriculum adapted to Chinese spa requirements.
Mr. Ravi Chandran, Managing Director of Spa Operations, Banyan Tree Spas and Angsana Spas, says, “As one of the world’s leading spa operators, Banyan Tree can attribute its success to the continued management, training and quality of our therapists. The Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket was a world-first for a resort, in achieving a fully trained, talented therapist base and establishing a world-class industry benchmark. This has helped us to enter new markets and grow from one Banyan Tree Spa in 1994 to over 50 Banyan Tree and Angsana Spas today. The Banyan Tree Lijiang Spa Academy is vital in our drive to identify and engage new candidates for the Chinese market and beyond.”
Fresh trainees are recruited from within China to undergo a pre-training 48-hour curriculum. Once the recruits are familiar with grooming standards, basic anatomy and physiology, and product knowledge they are committed to undergo about 480 hours of training over three months. Key elements that are essential in identifying recruits include enthusiasm, nurturing qualities, empathetic and keen interest to develop their potential with the company. Banyan Tree Spa rewards and retains its most promising recruits by offering extensive opportunities to further their career to the highest levels.
Banyan Tree Spa Academy, Phuket
The pioneering Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket was set up in 2001. The Banyan Tree Spa Academy Phuket trains a dedicated group of therapists for both Banyan Tree and Angsana Spas. The training programme encompasses all areas of spa therapy, including knowledge of the human anatomy and important pressure points, modern and traditional massage techniques, variation of body weight for different techniques, knowledge of skin epidermis and facial applications, properties of different herbs and spices, preparation of spa ingredients, setting up of treatment rooms and spa pavilions, and standard greeting procedures. The academy is accredited by Thailand’s Ministry of Education.
In November 2006, a new urban training centre, the Banyan Tree Thai Massage School in Bangkok, Thailand, was established to further identify recruits and train students in the art of Thai Massage.
Banyan Tree Spa has been honoured by awards including the recent Baccarat AsiaSpa Awards 2005 for Best In-Spa Training of the Year, and Travel Trade Gazette (TTG) Travel Awards 2005 for Best Spa Operator. In addition, Banyan Tree Spa Phuket has been awarded the distinction of Best Benefits Company by the Labour Relations Department of Thailand, which recognises the company’s practice to provide welfare and benefits beyond labour law requirements.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts
Banyan Tree offers an intimate retreat experience featuring its own signature blend of romance and Asian sensuality. The philosophy behind the hotels, resorts, spas and galleries is based on providing a place for rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul – a Sanctuary for the Senses.
Banyan Tree resorts are found in Phuket, Thailand (1994), Maldives Vabbinfaru (1995), Bintan, Indonesia (1995), Bangkok, Thailand (2002), Seychelles (2002), Ringha, China (2005), Lijiang, China (2006), Bahrain (2007) and Maldives Madivaru (2007). Flagship Banyan Tree Phuket was the first to introduce a tropical garden spa concept.
About Angsana Resorts & Spas
Launched in 2000, Angsana is the sister brand of Banyan Tree, inspired by the exotic Angsana Tree noted for its crown of golden flowers. Angsana resorts are designed as contemporary, chic and vibrant retreats to live life spontaneously and sense the moment.
Angsana resorts are found in Bintan, Indonesia (2000), Great Barrier Reef, Australia (2000), Bangalore, India (2001), Maldives Ihuru (2001) and Maldives Velavaru (2006).
In 2003, Colours of Angsana joined the Angsana portfolio. This boutique hotel collection appeals to the soft adventurer and cultural tourism sector. The current hotels are Gyalthang Dzong (Shangri-La, China), Deer Park Hotel (Giritale, Sri Lanka) and Maison Souvannaphoum (Luang Prabang, Laos).
To date, the Banyan Tree Group manages and/or has ownership interests in 22 resorts and hotels, 58 spas and 70 retail galleries and two golf courses.
ORGANIZATION
Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts
http://www.banyantree.com
Banyan Tree Building, 211 Upper Bukit Timah Road
Singapore, 588182
Singapore
Phone: +65.6849 5888/899
Fax: +65.64622800
Email: corporate@banyantree.com
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