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WTTC reveals pandemic’s heavy toll on woman and youth in travel & tourism jobs

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The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism, launched a new report revealing the stark impact of the pandemic on woman and youth employment within the global Travel & Tourism sector. 

Almost 70 million people working in Travel & Tourism lost their jobs during the pandemic, but women and young people were disproportionately impacted because their roles were more likely to be in the worst affected areas such as hospitality and food services. 

While the sector has broadly seen a strong recovery, the ‘Social Trends in Travel & Tourism Employment’ report found it employed 42 million women and just over 16 million young people in 2022, notably lower than the 48.4 million women (-13%) and nearly 19 million young workers (15%) supported by the sector in 2019. 

While the sector remains a vital source of jobs for underrepresented groups, the report makes clear that more must be done to ensure an inclusive and equitable recovery. The report, which examines employment trends across 185 economies from 2019 to 2022, underscores the sector’s potential as a key driver of inclusive economic growth and social progress. 

It is critical that we learn from these hardships and implement measures to protect these groups from being disproportionately affected in future crises. According to the latest EIR data, in 2023, the Travel & Tourism sector’s GDP contribution rose by 29.1% above pre-pandemic levels, outpacing the global average, which remained 4.1% below. 

Yet despite this economic rebound, the social recovery continued to lag, particularly for women and young people who remain more likely to be stuck in informal, part-time, or low-wage roles without security or growth potential. 

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “This report highlights the extraordinary potential of Travel & Tourism to drive inclusive growth, but it also underscores the urgent need for action.“Women and young people are the backbone of our sector, yet they continue to face significant barriers. 

“By investing in skills, promoting inclusive policies, and fostering entrepreneurship, we can unlock the full potential of these groups and ensure that our sector leads the way in creating meaningful and sustainable employment opportunities.”

 The report also highlights that women remain underrepresented in high-wage and leadership roles, with the gender split in Travel & Tourism employment nearly mirroring that of the wider economy. Young workers, who make up a greater share of the Travel & Tourism workforce compared to the wider economy, face particular challenges in accessing stable employment. 

Saudi Arabia Minister of Tourism, His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, welcomed the joint report findings and emphasised the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting youth and female employment in the Travel & Tourism sector. “Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to ensuring Travel & Tourism is a key driver of social change,” he said. 

“Our substantial investments in 2024, includes 375 million riyals for skills development training local tour guides who acquire deep knowledge of our nation’s rich history and landscapes. Others are becoming entrepreneurs, focusing on creativity, leadership, and digital skills. 

“In 2022, Saudi women’s employment in tourism was the fifth fastest growing among G20 countries. The focus on localising services, in areas like AlUla and Diriyah, has created new opportunities for women in heritage tourism jobs. Through stronger partnerships, tourism can transform into a vehicle for inclusive development, creating a more equitable and prosperous future for everyone.” 

This joint report calls for urgent action to address these disparities and maximise the sector’s potential as a driver of inclusive growth. 

Key areas of focus for governments and the Travel & Tourism sector include: 

  • Develop policies for skills training and gender equality
  • Enhance job opportunities for women and youth
  • Invest in education and leadership programmes
  • Implement inclusive hiring practices and equal pay
  • Support flexible work arrangements and childcare
  • Promote entrepreneurship through support for start-ups and small businesses

‘Social Trends in Travel & Tourism Employment’ serves as a clarion call to governments and businesses worldwide: to prioritise the inclusion of women and youth in the workforce, to invest in their skills and future, and to ensure that the benefits of Travel & Tourism are shared by all.

 

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EFW & Global Airlines sign heavy maintenance agreement

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Global Airlines, the new all A380 airline, announced it has teamed up with global MRO specialist, Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW), signing a multi-million Euro deal to perform the base maintenance inspection that will enable return to commercial service for its first fully acquired aircraft. 9H-GLOBL will soon fly to Dresden where it will undergo all necessary maintenance, including mandatory inspections and component replacements, before repositioning within Europe for an interior overhaul, ahead of starting operations in 2025.

The aircraft, that flew from the Mojave Desert in California to Prestwick International Airport on 1 May, will now take its next step towards starting operations as the Global project reaches the next stage of development. Extensive return to service work has already been carried out as the aircraft continues its journey back to the skies. Global Airlines and EFW are now working closely with Airbus on flight conditions and the tasks that will be required for the major maintenance. This will now be undertaken as part of a comprehensive deal with EFW.

James Asquith, CEO and founder of Global Airlines said: “Joining forces with EFW is the next significant step in our quest to seeing our first A380 in the sky. 9H-GLOBL’s journey back to the skies has taken yet another significant step forward and I am excited to see our first aircraft fly to Dresden for this work to progress. We have overcome significant hurdles over the past 12 months, and we are now very much advancing our proposition, partnerships, team and operational readiness and our partnership with EFW is the latest giant leap forward. I am looking forward to being in Dresden and seeing the work underway.”

“We are glad to support the renaissance of the A380 with our capabilities and maintenance services,” says Jordi Boto, CEO EFW. “We have supported this special aircraft over the years, and we are excited to re-establish our MRO activities on the A380. We really look forward to supporting our new customer Global Airlines with its first A380 and to seeing more aircraft of this type back in the sky.”

Jordi Boto, CEO of EFW said: “Given our years of experience in servicing the A380, we are excited to re-establish our MRO activities for this unique aircraft. We look forward to supporting our new customer Global Airlines with its first A380 and seeing more aircraft of this type back in the sky.”

Global Airlines is currently working closely with Airbus and various other partners on the planning that will enable 9H-GLOBL to fly to Dresden in the coming weeks. After the work has been carried out, the aircraft will then continue its journey repositioning once more within Europe to undergo an extensive cabin refurbishment, before the first commercial operations in 2025.

 

 

 

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JFOODO brings Seafood Loves Sake to Malaysia

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The Japan Food Product Overseas Promotion Centre (JFOODO) launched the inaugural edition of its renowned Seafood Loves Sake campaign in Malaysia.

The event brings together ten of the nation’s most celebrated culinary destinations, from reputable culinary havens to beloved neighbourhood coffee shops, to captivate the senses with 20 exquisite pairings, masterfully crafted to elevate the remarkable affinity between the sea’s bounty and the celestial essence of Japanese sake.

The event kicks off on 1st October and runs until 21st October.

JFOODO senior director Tetsuya Ito said of the event: “This inaugural campaign is a testament to our unwavering dedication to cultivating a profound reverence for the extraordinary versatility of Japan’s artisanal sake, demonstrating its remarkable synergy with diverse culinary creations.”

A diverse range of choices for a truly unique event

Unlike previous campaigns held in Singapore and Hong Kong, Seafood Loves Sake’s Malaysia debut invites discerning food enthusiasts to embark on a transformative palatal adventure. 

The participating establishments include three renowned restaurants from Johor Bahru and seven acclaimed venues from Kuala Lumpur. The choices encompass a diverse range of cuisines, including French, Italian, Asian fusion, and Chinese, each poised to showcase the extraordinary versatility of Japanese sake alongside the global finest seafood specialties.

Amongst the ten hotspots are the high-end Japanese restaurant Kampai KLCC, the Australian restaurant-to-retail brand CALIA PAVILION, and the pioneering Hanabi Robata Izakaya. 

Each epicurean venue has meticulously curated unique sake-infused creations prepared to transport diners on a sensory odyssey.

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British Airways to become the largest purchaser of carbon removals in the UK

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British Airways has signed a deal to purchase more than £9 million worth of innovative carbon removals credits in the United Kingdom and overseas as part of a six-year agreement. The deal is part of an ambitious drive to accelerate the airline’s climate change efforts between now and 2030.

One ground-breaking scheme in Scotland will see CO2 emissions captured from whisky distilleries and repurposed into building materials. Another, spread across multiple locations in the UK, uses an enhanced rock weathering technique to lock away carbon for thousands of years. The airline will also purchase carbon removals credits from two companies specialising in high-durability reforestation projects, increasing the amount of forested land in Scotland and Wales.

The airline’s portfolio also includes Canadian carbon capture projects, which focus on carbon removal from rivers and oceans using alkaline rock particles, while in India, the airline is backing a biochar project that empowers female farmers while enhancing soil biodiversity and farm yields.

British Airways joined forces with CUR8, a UK-based company that specialises in sourcing high quality carbon removals credits. The airline has purchased 33,000 tonnes of carbon removal credits through its CUR8 portfolio, a small but important step to help scale-up and advance this critical sector. Carbon removals are recognised by scientists, governments and regulators as a vital tool in helping to address climate change, but the sector needs to be scaled up urgently.

Carrie Harris, Director of Sustainability at British Airways, said: “As we approach the halfway point in this critical decade of action, we’re sharpening our focus on delivering real, tangible progress by 2030. We know flying has a significant impact on the planet, and achieving net zero by 2050 requires bold, innovative action today, as well as long-term transformation, and our latest investments in carbon removals reflects this commitment. While small in comparison to our total emissions, these projects are crucial in stimulating the carbon removals market. By supporting pioneering solutions, we’re not only contributing to immediate progress but also laying the groundwork for the large-scale changes needed to meet our climate goals. There is no pathway to net zero for aviation without carbon removals.”

Carbon removal is the process of removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it safely for multiple decades and ideally centuries. British Airways’ removals portfolio includes a variety of approaches ranging from storing carbon in trees and soils to capturing carbon dioxide directly from the air and durably storing it underground or through enhanced rock weathering.

Combined with previous removals purchases made by the airline, this new investment makes British Airways the largest carbon removals purchaser in the UK and the largest purchasing airline of carbon removals*. By signing this deal, British Airways is playing an active role in helping to stimulate UK and global removals, forging deeper relationships with key carbon removals suppliers and building a better understanding of this nascent but vital market.

Marta Krupinska, CEO of CUR8, said:“British Airways understands that carbon removals are not a nice-to-have, but an essential part of the aviation sector’s net zero journey. We’ve been proud to partner with this aviation leader to build a portfolio that combines the best of nature and human engineering, stretching from UK soils to the oceans and rivers of Canada. At CUR8, we bring together the world’s leading scientists and climate software to help organisations source and manage carbon removals to help de-risk their net zero future. British Airways is a leading brand that recognises that with this early investment, it can help to make an impact not only for themselves but for the industry at large.”

In 2019, British Airways became part of the first airline group to commit to net zero emissions by 2050 or sooner. Its 2030 focus includes embedding a culture of sustainability across the business, by introducing new internal carbon reduction targets and launching a new sustainability learning programme, to inform and inspire colleagues and identify further areas of improvement to help drive change.

In addition to the partnerships facilitated by CUR8, British Airways has also purchased a small number of carbon removal credits from Climeworks, which operates the world’s two largest Direct Air Capture plants in Iceland, with plans to expand internationally, and 1PointFive, a US-based company that is developing a Direct Air Capture plant in Texas.

Roughly one third of British Airways’ emissions reductions by 2050 will come from robust carbon reductions and removals in other sectors, and the airline has been supporting research and innovation to help accelerate the development of cutting-edge solutions since 2019.

Further commitment to innovative partnerships

Recognising the vital role of innovation in securing climate solutions, British Airways has announced a new partnership with The Earthshot Prize, becoming a Global Alliance Member. Founded by Prince William in 2020, The Earthshot Prize is a global environmental prize, designed to discover, spotlight and scale the groundbreaking solutions we need to repair and regenerate the planet. By working with The Earthshot Prize, British Airways will be supporting the discovery, investment and acceleration of innovative and scalable climate solutions for people and for the planet, ranging from alternative fuels to reducing single-use plastics. Past recipients of the prize include carbon recycling company LanzaTech**, who work closely with British Airways’ sustainable aviation fuel partner LanzaJet to bring emerging sustainable technologies to market, and Notpla, a company specialising in biodegradable packaging that the airline has recently partnered with. British Airways hopes to explore further collaborations with future prize winners.

These new partnerships and focus on short-term action complement the existing progress the airline is already making towards its sustainability goals. These include investing in Sustainable Aviation Fuel*** (SAF) projects in the UK and USA, with around 1% SAF routinely delivered into existing pipeline infrastructure at Heathrow, flying new, more fuel-efficient aircraft to improving operational efficiency in the air and on the ground. This year, British Airways invested in its ground vehicle operation at Heathrow, with more than 90% of vehicles and ground equipment now zero emissions (when being used or driven), hybrids or are operating on HVO fuel.

 

 

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Atlas Ocean Voyages welcomes guests to The Explorers’ Table

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Yacht expedition cruise firm Atlas Ocean Voyages invites guests to The Explorer’s Table, a new specialty dining option now available on Polar Expeditions to Antarctica and the High Arctic. 

An exclusive omakase-style dining experience, The Explorer’s Table presents global culinary highlights from Spain, Korea, France, Argentina, and North America in The Dome observation lounge. 

The experience will be available once on each expedition aboard the World Voyager, World Traveller, and World Navigator.

Atlas Ocean Voyages president and CEO James Rodriguez said of this gustatory adventure: “The culinary team is kicking off the Winter 2024-2025 Antarctic season with a new elevated onboard dining experience that will continue in the Arctic next summer. Guests will enjoy a special evening with just a few other guests, providing the ultimate dining experience on board.”

An exclusive affair

Prepared for only ten guests, The Explorer’s Table guests will embark on a culinary journey amid scenes of glaciers and icebergs. The multi-course tasting menu is elegantly paired with a selection of premium wines. 

This extraordinary dining experience features a fusion of global flavours and culinary craftsmanship. Some of the standout dishes include fresh Salad de Bacalao with Tomato, Cod, Olives, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and the unique Steamed Pastrami Sandwich with Mustard, Kimchi, and Cheddar. For seafood lovers, the Charcoal Steamed Nishiki Rice with Ossetra Caviar offers a luxurious touch, while the Chargrilled Gaucho-style Vegetables and Beans with Pistachio Gremolata deliver bold, earthy flavours.

Guests will also savour the vibrant Mango, Avocado, and Duck with Broccoli Crumbs, and treat their palates to the refreshing Hemingway Peppermint Mojito Crush with Carolina Raspberry.

Additional highlights include Flamed Spring Chicken Terrine with Pickles, the rich Jamon Iberico de Jabugo with Lemon Olive Oil, and a decadent Pot de Crème featuring Valrhona Guanaja 70% Chocolate and Yuzu. 

Each exquisite course will be paired with premium wine selections from the Mendoza Valley, a region renowned for its exceptional wines and rich, bold flavours.

Reservations open 60 days before the embarkation date and are priced at US$179 per guest. Pre-reservations can be made by contacting a travel advisor or an Atlas Ocean Voyages Voyage Specialist.

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IndiGo launches direct flights between Bengaluru-Mauritius from 19 November

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IndiGo announces direct flights to Mauritius from Bengaluru, starting 19 November  2024. IndiGo will be the first airline to start operations on this route, through four weekly direct flights, enhancing connectivity between the two countries. Mauritius will be IndiGo’s 35th international and 123rd overall destination, demonstrating the airline’s dedication to enhancing connectivity for both leisure and business travellers.

This new route will establish a direct link between two dynamic economic hubs—Bengaluru, referred to as India’s Silicon Valley, and Mauritius, a gateway to East Africa. With the launch of the new destination, the airline will not only meet the growing demand for tourism but will also serve as a vital enabler of trade, investment, and business partnerships between India and East Africa. As a preferred destination for Indian investors, Mauritius offers a favourable business environment across key sectors such as healthcare, education, and tourism and acts as a hub for the African markets, while strengthening the bilateral relationship between India and Mauritius.

Vinay Malhotra, head of global sales at IndiGo, said: “We are delighted on the addition of yet another stunning beach destination, Mauritius, to our growing international network. With four flights a week from Bengaluru to Mauritius, this direct flight will shorten travel time, bringing added convenience to our passengers. With easy norms such as visa-on-arrival for Indian citizens, this new route opens exciting opportunities for leisure as well as business travellers. As we continue to expand our global footprint, our focus remains firmly on delivering on-time performance, affordability, and a hassle-free experience, ensuring IndiGo remains the preferred choice for travel.”

Mauritius, a captivating island in the Indian Ocean, offers an extraordinary blend of natural wonders and cultural richness. Known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush tropical landscapes, the island is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Mauritius is shaped by diverse multicultural influences that create a unique and harmonious society. Key attractions include the historic Château de Labourdonnais, which reflects the island’s colonial heritage, and the vibrant Creole culture celebrated in local festivals and cuisine. It is not only a paradise for tourists but also a burgeoning economic hub. The island’s status as a financial center and its robust economic growth attracts business travellers and investors from around the world. Mauritius is renowned for its business-friendly environment, with incentives for foreign investment and a growing emphasis on technology and innovation. Mauritius offers a dynamic blend of economic opportunities and scenic beauty, making it a compelling destination for both business and leisure travellers.

Flight schedule: 

Flight No. Origin Destination Frequency Effective Departure Arrival
6E 1861 Bengaluru Mauritius Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun Nov 19, 2024 03:20 07:45
6E 1862 Mauritius Bengaluru Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun Nov 19, 2024 09:30 16:45

 

*Schedule is subject to all regulatory approvals.

 

 

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flybig launches special fares starting at INR 499 for Bathinda-Ghaziabad Route

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India’s fastest-growing regional airline, flybig, a part of Big Charter Private Limited (BCPL), announced exciting new fares for the Ghaziabad to Bathinda flight. Passengers can now book flights at a fare of INR 499 + taxes, available for bookings until 26th October. With limited seats available, travellers are encouraged to book quickly to take advantage of this offer. Recently, flybig had increased its service frequency from two to four flights per week, providing passengers with enhanced accessibility and convenience.

The decision to offer cheaper flight tickets underscores flybig’s commitment to making air travel accessible for the common man. flybig aims to provide passengers with greater flexibility in their travel plans, by offering affordable ticket rates. Increased and affordable regional connectivity align perfectly with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for inclusive growth and economic empowerment across the nation.

Saanjay Mandavia, CMD, flybig, said: “Our mission is to ensure that regional air travel is accessible and affordable for every individual, irrespective of their economic background. Affordable air travel has the power to catalyse economic growth and development in New India’s aspirations. By introducing these competitive fares, we aim to make travel more convenient and economical for our customers.”

flybig’s DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, equipped with 19 seats, is currently operating on these routes. This new connectivity is a boon for both leisure as well as business travellers.  flybig foresees significant growth in passenger numbers over the next 2-3 years and plans to expand its operations to accommodate the increasing demand.

Saanjay Mandavia, said: “As regional connectivity expands, the potential for infrastructure development, tourism promotion, and the establishment of new markets will open up. This holistic approach to connectivity holds the promise of unlocking the untapped potential of various regions, driving prosperity and inclusivity throughout the country.”

With the new INR 499 fare, flybig aims to revolutionize regional air travel, making it a viable option for more individuals and families. This initiative not only underscores the airline’s commitment to customer satisfaction but also aligns with the broader national vision of enhancing air connectivity and economic development across India. Passengers are urged to take advantage of this limited-time offer and experience the convenience of air travel like never before.

The airline has ambitious plans for the future, anticipating significant growth in passenger numbers over the next 2-3 years. As regional connectivity expands, flybig envisions enhanced infrastructure development, increased tourism, and the establishment of new markets, which together promise to unlock the untapped potential of various regions across India.

 

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Aditya Birla Group launches Waarsa, a signature Awadhi restaurant at NCPA  

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Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality (ABNAH), the hospitality arm of Aditya Birla Group announces the opening of Waarsa, a premium casual dining restaurant serving signature Awadhi food. Waarsa is nestled within the heritage precinct of the iconic National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) at Nariman Point, Mumbai.

Waarsa, which means “inheritance” attempts to narrate the story of Awadh and its cooks through the flavours, aromas, and techniques that have been passed down through generations. It reflects the deep connection to the rich legacy and culinary heritage of Awadhi cuisine.

Waarsa, helmed by Chef Rahul Akerkar- Culinary Director at ABNAH and Chef Mukthar Qureshi-MasterChef (Waarsa), is more than just a restaurant.  It is a journey through the vibrant and storied history of Awadhi cuisine inspired not only from the royal kitchens but also more from the homes of cooks from the region, as they travelled from Awadh to different parts of India.

Udai Pinnali, CEO, ABNAH, said: “We are honoured to introduce Waarsa at the prestigious NCPA, a venue renowned for showcasing traditional and contemporary arts over the decades. Waarsa stands as our tribute to a cuisine that is shaped as much by the regal kitchens as with the warmth of traditional Awadhi homes. Chef Rahul Akerkar and Chef Mukhtar Qureshi have collaborated to build a culinary experience that is both authentically rooted in Awadh and thoughtfully adapted to contemporary tastes.

At ABNAH, our approach to new dining concepts is driven by a mission to unlock the transformative power of food and to tell culinary stories that resonate deeply with today’s audience.”

Signatures at Waarsa

Chef Rahul Akerkar, culinary director at ABNAH stated: “We’ve crafted every detail of Waarsa to reflect the essence of Awadh in a way that is both understated and elegant. To create this, we immersed ourselves in the diverse culinary landscapes of Lucknow, Benares, Kolkata, and beyond, deeply engaging with the history and nuances of this remarkable cuisine,” adds Chef Rahul Akerkar.

Signature dishes such as Raan-e-Mukhtar (slow cooked goat leg in its own juices with a medley of home spices and then tandoor roasted) and Daal Q-Man (kid goat slow-cooked in black masoor dal,  finished with dill, bathua leaves and white butter) showcase the complexity of flavours achieved through the artistry of slow cooking, a hallmark of Awadhi cuisine. With a menu that features around 30 varieties of kebabs and more than 13 types of bread, Waarsa is poised to become a must-visit destination for soulful Awadhi cuisine. The menu at Waarsa places a strong emphasis on vegetarian cuisine, showcasing Awadhi flavours crafted from locally sourced, everyday ingredients. It honours the traditional use of vegetables in home-cooked Awadhi dishes, drawing inspiration from the way these ingredients have been integral to daily cooking in local households. Dishes like Bhindi Kali Mirchi, okra tossed with yoghurt and cracked black pepper, Lauki Aur Chana Dal Shikhampuri, tawa-seared, bottle gourd and chickpea kebab, Bhuna Bhutta Khaas Seekh, grilled vegetable seekh with coal-roasted corn, are just some of the signatures from the menu.

Chef Mukhtar Qureshi, a member of the legendary Qureshi family renowned for their strong Awadhi lineage, leads the kitchen. Chef Qureshi is known for his profound respect for tradition as well as contemporary culinary practices. His childhood memories of growing up in Lucknow, where his family operated traditional restaurants, serve as a wellspring of inspiration. These experiences have shaped his culinary philosophy, which marries the time-honoured techniques of Awadhi cooking with modern sensibilities.

Chef Mukhtar Qureshi, MasterChef, Waarsa said: “For me, Waarsa represents a deeply personal journey. The menu reflects my childhood memories of home-cooked meals and the rich stories from my family, all the while incorporating the culinary voice I’ve cultivated over the years. It honours the authenticity of Awadhi cuisine and its historical roots, but it also introduces subtle modern touches to offer a lighter and more contemporary dining experience.”

The launch of Waarsa also coincides with the launch of Bay 21, a social gathering space for hire-outs, banquets and events.  Nestled at NCPA, Bay 21 is a banqueting haven that redefines luxury with a touch of coastal charm. BAY 21 is meticulously crafted to reflect the grandeur of the NCPA while exuding the intimacy of a sophisticated lounge.

 

 

 

 

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How Skyview by Empyrean has brought about green consciousness in Patnitop!

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The journey towards green consciousness begins with a single responsible step, and when an entire community embraces this mindset, the collective impact is profound—creating a sustainable path for future generations.

In Jammu’s quaint hill station Patnitop, Skyview by Empyrean, a premier mountain harbour, has taken the lead when it comes to adopting sustainable practices across its 22-acre property and preserving the local environment through eco-friendly initiatives. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Pir Panjal range, lush green meadows, and verdant forests, this luxurious escape is India’s first Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI) certified sustainable tourism destination!

Here’s how this premium destination is setting a new standard for sustainable tourism in Jammu and across India.

Reducing Carbon Footprint 

By road, the driving distance between Sanget Valley and Patnitop is approximately 45 minutes. However, the Skyview green gondola that glides between the two destinations has reduced the distance for commuters by 35 km, taking only 10-13 minutes one way! The net zero ropeway has considerably reduced traffic as well as air and noise pollution in the region. While constructing the 2.8 km-long stretch over the Shivalik range of the Himalayas, the natural beauty and landscape of the region were left untouched as not even a single tree was damaged or cut down. To ensure that the local flora and fauna remained undisturbed in their habitat, the height of all towers was raised accordingly.

Eco-friendly Design and Water Conservation 

The administrative building and terminals at Skyview by Empyrean feature integrated rainwater collection and harvesting systems. The collected rainwater is recycled and utilized in restroom facilities, luxury stays for guests, and for landscaping. A dedicated water treatment facility on the property further recycles rainwater, ensuring efficient usage.  The Banana Leaf restaurant, Luxury stays, and other buildings on the premises have eco-friendly and energy efficient architectural designs that minimize the environmental impact of the development.

Commitment to Sustainable Luxury

On the premises of this 22-acre mountain harbour, luxury and sustainability happily coexist! The staff, through the use of in-house biodegradable cutlery and digital menus, has embraced the concept of minimal waste. Local vendors supply fresh, organically grown fruits, vegetables and other ingredients used in the kitchens.

To further enhance its commitment to sustainability, Skyview by Empyrean offers battery-operated cars to transport guests throughout the property. These eco-friendly vehicles are available on demand, ensuring convenient and seamless movement while significantly reducing the environmental impact. By using these electric cars, the destination minimizes both noise and air pollution, maintaining the tranquility and natural beauty of the surroundings. This initiative not only aligns with the property’s green values but also provides guests with a comfortable and environmentally responsible mode of transport.

Combined with the use of battery-operated cars for internal transport, the availability of EV charging stations strengthens the property’s commitment to promoting eco-friendly practices. These efforts are designed to minimize the environmental impact of tourism while offering guests a luxury experience that aligns with responsible travel standards.

Hands of Gold, the store housed at Skyview by Empyrean celebrates local artisans keeping alive their generations old skills in creating authentic, hand-made, organic products, all sourced locally from Jammu. This has contributed to the local community having a stable livelihood, which in turn has positively impacted the economy in the region.

 

 

 

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Azalea by Stone Wood opens with 52 keys in South Goa

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Goa-based hospitality chain Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts is proud to announce the launch of its latest property, Azalea by Stone Wood, a luxurious retreat set amidst the scenic beauty of Carmona in South Goa. Located just 700 metres from the pristine White Sands of Carmona Beach and within walking distance of Zalor Beach, the resort offers a serene escape for travellers seeking relaxation and tranquillity. The launch of Azalea by Stone Wood strengthens the brand’s presence in Goa, a destination known for its stunning beaches, historic churches, and vibrant local culture.

Azalea by Stone Wood offers 52 well-appointed rooms, including deluxe, premium, and suite options, with modern amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, HD LED televisions, and 24-hour room service. The resort also features a multi-cuisine restaurant, Café d’Azalea, a swimming pool, and guest services, including airport transfers and a business centre, making it an ideal choice for leisure and business travellers.

Guests of Azalea can explore nearby attractions, including Cabo de Rama Fort, a historic landmark with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, and Big Foot, a recreated Goan village that offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. The property is also close to the iconic Arch of Coconut Trees, a natural landmark perfect for picturesque moments.

Commenting on the launch,  Shikhar Kumar, managing director of Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are thrilled to introduce Azalea by Stone Wood, which perfectly captures the essence of South Goa’s beauty and tranquillity. With its prime location, luxurious accommodations, and world-class amenities, we believe Azalea will provide an unforgettable experience for every guest. We continue to believe in experiential boutique properties and value-for-money vacation experience.”

Maintaining the high standards of safety and hygiene that Stone Wood  Hotels & Resorts is known for, the property implements stringent cleanliness protocols to ensure a safe and comfortable stay for all visitors. Positioned as an ideal destination for family vacations, romantic getaways, corporate events, and beach weddings, Azalea offers a luxurious and peaceful setting in the heart of South Goa.

 

 

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