A seasoned expert with 12 years of experience in revenue management, Akshay’s leadership promises to bring fresh perspectives and impactful strategies to the organization.

Akshay’s career journey includes significant contributions at globally renowned hospitality brands like Marriott International and Hilton Hotels. His expertise lies in optimizing revenue strategies and utilizing analytics to enhance profitability, making him a respected name in the industry.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Akshay Bhasin said, “Joining ibis India is an exciting opportunity to leverage my expertise in revenue optimization and analytics to drive impactful strategies. The brand’s commitment to innovation aligns perfectly with my vision for delivering measurable results and fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence. Together, we aim to create value and position ibis as a leader in the hospitality landscape.”

Congratulating Akshay Bhasin, Animesh Kumar, Commercial Head, ibis & ibis Styles India, commented, “Akshay’s innovative approach to revenue management and his ability to deliver results make him an excellent addition to our leadership team. We are confident that his strategic vision will enhance ibis India’s revenue growth and further solidify our position in the market. His appointment underscores our commitment to attracting the best talent to drive long-term success.”

With this appointment, ibis India reinforces its dedication to innovation, growth, and excellence in the hospitality industry. Under Akshay’s leadership, the brand aims to set new benchmarks in revenue performance and guest satisfaction, staying ahead in a competitive market.

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Get ready to witness the wheels of change in motion! The Indian Auto Expo 2025 has roared to life at the iconic Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, paving the road to a greener, smarter, and more sustainable automotive future. 

The opening media day set the stage with an electrifying vibe as industry trailblazers and media came together to explore the latest in green technology and sustainable transportation. From cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs) to breakthroughs in autonomous driving and battery innovation, every corner of the expo buzzes with ideas poised to revolutionize the way we drive, commute, and connect.

But that’s not all! This year’s spotlight is on action. The 2025 Auto Expo celebrates India’s bold strides toward eco-friendly, future-ready solutions, blending innovation with responsibility to create a better tomorrow.

So, what’s creating all the buzz on the show floor? Today’s Traveller takes you on a front-row ride to some of the most eye-catching marvels unveiled this year. Buckle up—it’s going to be an exciting journey! 

MG Cyberster

MG unveiled the highly anticipated Cyberster at the 2025 Auto Expo. The sleek, two-door electric convertible fuses the classic charm of the iconic 1960s MG B Roadster with modern innovation. The Cyberster’s exterior is a classic old-school drop-top design with a long bonnet, compact cabin, and short rear end.  Its flowing silhouette with the dramatic scissor doors and striking LED headlamps shout sporty.

The Cyberster’s cosy two-seat cabin is a showcase of advanced technology and thoughtful design. It features a tri-screen setup seamlessly integrating the infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, and passenger display, creating a futuristic and immersive driving experience. Additional highlights include a sleek vertical climate control display, a motorsport-inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel, heated memory seats for personalised comfort, and a premium 8-speaker Bose sound system that delivers exceptional audio quality.

Safety takes centre stage with an array of features, including multiple airbags, ABS, traction control, and an advanced ADAS suite. Technologies such as lane departure warning and autonomous emergency braking ensure peace of mind, blending performance with cutting-edge safety.

Under the “hood”, the Cyberster gets a dual electric motor setup powered by a 77 kWh battery pack, pumping out 503 bhp of power and 725 Nm of torque. The convertible rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds, reaches a top speed of over 200 km/h and offers an impressive range of 580 km per charge on the CLTC cycle.

MG plans to retail the Cyberster through its exclusive MG Select channel, initially launching in 12 major cities with expansion plans. With its perfect blend of heritage, innovation, and thrilling performance, the Cyberster is set to electrify the future of driving.

MINI Countryman Electric

British automaker Mini showcased the 2025 Mini Countryman Electric at the event. The third-generation Countryman is available as an electric-only model as the brand commits to sustainable mobility. While MINI launched it in India back in July 2024, the 2025 Auto Expo is going to be the first time it will be showcased to the masses. 

The new Mini Countryman reimagines the brand’s iconic design with a sleek, minimalist touch. Its bold octagonal front grille exudes confidence, while the absence of chrome elements reflects a modern, eco-conscious ethos. Clean lines and purposeful styling complete its striking exterior. Inside, the cabin is crafted for comfort and functionality. Enhanced shoulder space and a 460-litre boot ensure practicality, while the centrepiece is a vibrant 9.4-inch OLED touchscreen seamlessly integrated into the dashboard. Operated by the intuitive Mini Intelligent Personal Assistant, it puts every control at your fingertips.

In terms of safety features, the new Countryman gets Level 2 advanced driver-assistance systems, offering semi-automated driving at speeds up to 60 km/h. Blending style, technology, and sustainability, the new Mini Countryman is built for the road ahead.

The Countryman Electric is equipped with a 66.45 kWh battery pack, producing 201 bhp and 250 Nm of torque, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of 170 km/h. With a WLTP-certified range of 462 km on a single charge, it is well-suited for both urban commutes and long-distance journeys.

Mini is offering an introductory price tag of Rs 54.90 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Countryman Electric.

Kia EV9

Kia revealed the flagship EV9 at the 2025 Auto Expo, the brand’s striking all-electric, three-row SUV flagship. The Kia EV9’s exterior design combines boldness and sophistication, embodying the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy. Its commanding stance is defined by the striking ‘Digital Tiger Face’ front fascia, featuring vertical headlights that exude an assertive presence. With sleek, sculpted lines and assertive geometric elements, the EV9 has a dynamic profile while a gently sloping roofline enhances its aerodynamic efficiency and dynamic appeal. 

Moving inside, the Kia EV9’s interior merges advanced technology with premium build quality. The centrepiece is a sleek dual 12.3-inch panoramic display for the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. It also gets heated and ventilated captain’s chairs that swivel 180 degrees on the second row. Additional options like SynTex seat trim in embossed or quilted patterns are available as well.

The Kia EV9 also comes packed with safety features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot detection, and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist coming standard. 

The EV9 is offered with both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive options. The rear-wheel variant, powered by a 76.1 kWh battery, delivers a range of 370 miles per charge, while the all-wheel-drive model features a 99.8 kWh battery, providing up to nearly 490 kms of range. Fast-charging technology means the battery can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes.

Available in a single GT-Line AWD Variant, the Kia EV9 is priced at Rs 1.30 crore (ex-showroom).

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Electric

Launched barely a week ago, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the all-electric G 580 at the Auto Expo 2025, marking a new era of the iconic G-Class. Staying true to its off-road roots, the G 580 retains its signature boxy silhouette, now enhanced with a modern Black Panel grille with an animated LED strip, signalling its electric identity. Aerodynamically optimized wheels and customizable rear design options add a sleek touch to its bold character, heralding the G-Class into the electric age.

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a familiar but thoroughly modernised cabin. Dual 12.3-inch displays for the infotainment system and instrument cluster offer an intuitive and futuristic driving experience. The SUV features high-quality materials and a tank-like build quality while the exclusive MANUFAKTUR program invites owners to customize their G 580 to their unique tastes, making every detail a personal expression of elegance.

True to its heritage, the G 580 is an off-road powerhouse. With an impressive 9.8-inch ground clearance and the ability to ford water depths of up to 33.5 inches, it can tackle the most challenging terrains. The innovative OFF-ROAD COCKPIT provides advanced navigation tools tailored for rugged adventures, ensuring every journey is as thrilling as it is seamless.

The G580 with EQ Technology is driven by a 116kWh battery that powers a quad-electric motor setup, one for each wheel. It pumps out 579 bhp and a mammoth 1164 Nm of peak torque, enabling the hefty SUV to launch from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds. Mercedes claims a WLTP range of 473 km on a single charge. 200 kW DC fast charging means the battery pack can charge from 10%-80% in just 32 minutes.

Mercedes has priced the G580 Electric at Rs 3 crore (ex-showroom).

Porsche Taycan

Porsche launched the refreshed Taycan 4S and the Taycan Turbo at the 2025 Auto Expo. The Taycan’s exterior is an example of sporty minimalism done right with the sculpted bonnet, updated, sharper HD-Matrix LED headlights with detailed optics and a subtly tweaked bumper with new air intakes. At the rear, it gets sleeker LED tail lights and a bold 3D Porsche logo to create a modern, unmistakable signature. Distinctive aerodynamic enhancements aid in aero-efficiency as well as improving the visual appeal.

Inside, the Taycan is laden with tech that is wrapped in premium materials. Multiple screens cater to infotainment, climate control, and passenger entertainment, while ambient lighting and a futuristic head-up display elevate the driving experience. Features like four-zone climate control, ventilated seats, and 14-way adjustable front seats ensure unmatched comfort.

The Taycan’s upgraded 2025 battery pack now delivers an impressive range of up to 678 km on a single charge. The Taycan 4S variant pumps out 510 bhp, jumping to 697 bhp for the Turbo model.

Prices for the 2025 Taycan start from Rs 1.89 crore (ex-showroom) for the 4S, going up to Rs 2.89 crore (ex-showroom) for the Turbo. 

The Road Ahead: A Greener Horizon Awaits 

As the Indian Auto Expo 2025 races towards its finale, one thing is crystal clear: the future of mobility is here, and it’s electric, autonomous, and sustainable. This year’s event isn’t just a showcase of cutting-edge technology—it’s a testament to India’s leadership in embracing and reimagining the automotive landscape.

From revolutionary EVs to transformative ideas shaping the industry, the expo has left attendees inspired and optimistic about what lies ahead. As India drives forward on its journey toward a sustainable automotive future, the road ahead is green. 

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The event was attended by corporate and loyalty program members as well as distiguished names in the business community.

Adding new dimensions to its mission of building bridges between countries, continents and cultures through its worldwide support for sports, Turkish Airlines has been organising World Golf Cup Tournament since its inception in 2013. Bringing together thousands of golf amateurs and ethusiasts, the flag carrier stregthens its ties with its corporate customers through this special event. This year, Turkish Airlines hosted over 9.000 players who competed against one another in more than 110 tournaments.

At the Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup Grand Finals in Antalya, Walker Toomes delivered an impressive performance, scoring a total of 140 points to become the champion. Nan Park secured second place with 91 points, while Gantulga Erdene came in third with 89 points.

 Following the Grand Finals, Turkish Airlines Chief Commercial Officer Ahmet Olmuştur said; “It is one of the best examples of our support for sports and athletes. This tournament trascends being just a sporting event, it fosters friendship and cooperation, uniting cultures and people. This year’s grand final in Antalya was a celebration filled with unforgettable moments for players and enthusiasts alike. We would like to thank all our participants and supporters.’’ 

The tournament was held for the first time in 2013 in 12 countries. It is now organized over 70 countries, making it the world’s largest and most comprehensive corporate amateur golf series. Sponsored by Gloria Hotels & Resorts and Ruck & Maul, the ninth edition of the tournament hosted thousands of golf amateurs and enthusiasts all over the world.

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With over six years of experience in sustainable practices across the hospitality and consulting sectors, Rohit Saini brings invaluable expertise to furthering the properties’ ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.

Rohit has previously held prominent leadership roles, including Director of Sustainability at Six Senses Fort Barwara and Senior Manager of Sustainability at GoStops Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. In these positions, he successfully implemented energy and water conservation strategies, waste management systems, and impactful community initiatives. His efforts have led to measurable outcomes, including up to 30% energy savings and 25% water conservation across various properties.

Rohit holds certifications in Carbon/GHG Accounting and Sustainable Strategies for the Hospitality Industry and has led numerous sustainability initiatives that align with global standards. His focus on circular economy practices and comprehensive ESG metrics positions him as a key player in advancing sustainable hospitality in India.

On his appointment, Rohit Saini said, “I am honoured to join Fairmont and Raffles Jaipur, two iconic properties that have consistently demonstrated their dedication to excellence and sustainability. Together, we will continue to drive impactful change, ensuring these properties serve as benchmarks for sustainable luxury in the hospitality industry.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Rohit Saini to the team. His leadership and expertise will be instrumental in enhancing our existing environmental programs, as we work towards delivering unparalleled guest experiences while fostering sustainable practices,” Rajat Sethi, General Manager, Fairmont Jaipur.

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Having 16 years of exemplary hospitality experience, Rajiv Kumar currently serves as the Food and Beverage Manager at Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre, where he plays a pivotal role in enhancing guest experiences and optimizing F&B operations. His contributions  elevate service standards, ensuring memorable dining experiences for guests.

Having built a distinguished career working with renowned hotel chains such as Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, The Lalit Group of Hotels, Accor, and Radisson. His expertise spans across key areas like  food and beverage operations , revenue driven with key involvement showcasing his versatility and commitment to excellence.

Having a dedicated operations professional, Rajiv holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel, Motel, and Restaurant Management, which has provided a solid academic foundation for his achievements in the industry. His journey reflects a steadfast commitment to continuous learning, operational efficiency, and fostering collaborative team environments.

Puneet Sharma, General Manager of Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre, shared, “We are delighted to have Rajiv Kumar as an integral part of our leadership team. His vast experience and unwavering dedication to operational excellence are truly commendable. We are confident that his expertise will not only elevate the guest experience but also further strengthen our position as a preferred destination in the hospitality industry.”  

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Scheduled to open in 2026, the new hotel will add 200 keys to IHG’s growing presence in South India. Driven by market demand, continues to expand its footprint in key Indian cities. 

Famous the world over, Holiday Inn brand has continued to evolve through the years, keeping the guest at the heart of all innovation and earning its status as one of the world’s most loved, trusted and recognized hotel brands. The hotel will feature the brand-transforming Open Lobby hallmark, a design-led and versatile space where guests can choose how they connect and relax. 

Strategically located just a short drive from Chennai International Airport in the Vandalur area, Holiday Inn Chennai Vandalur will be in close proximity to the city’s main industrial centers, home to major global corporations. Once opened, the hotel will join IHG’s portfolio of 58 Holiday Inn hotels across South West Asia, Middle East and Africa region.

Commenting on the signing, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts said, “We are delighted to welcome Holiday Inn Chennai Vandalur, a strategic addition to our growing portfolio in South India. Chennai is experiencing robust economic growth, and it has become a key destination for both domestic and international travelers seeking a mix of business and leisure experiences. To meet the rising demand for world-class hospitality in Chennai, we have signed IHG’s fifth hotel and third Holiday Inn in the city.”

He added, “As a global beacon of hospitality, the Holiday Inn brand champions meaningful connections and brings people together. Leveraging the brand reputation and its strategic location, Holiday Inn Chennai Vandalur is poised to set a new standard for hospitality in the region.”

P. Rajendran, Sakthi Elegant Towers India Pvt Ltd added, “We’re excited to partner with IHG to bring Holiday Inn Chennai Vandalur to life. This collaboration allows us to tap into IHG’s global expertise, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming guest experience that sets new standards for hospitality in Chennai.”

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With over 16 years of experience in the hospitality and marketing industry, Singh brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of success to her new role.

Singh’s career spans prestigious global hotel brands, including Hyatt Hotels in India and IHG’s Six Senses in Vietnam. At Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, she spearheaded marketing strategies and evaluated campaign effectiveness, while at Ana Mandara Hospitality, she focused on brand development and positioning. Her diverse portfolio also includes enhancing guest experiences, developing creative campaigns, and driving brand visibility for luxury properties.

In her new role at Raffles Udaipur, Puja Singh will lead the hotel’s marketing and communications strategies, working closely with the management team to elevate the hotel’s profile. Her mandate includes increasing brand visibility, forging strategic partnerships, and curating exclusive guest experiences to position Raffles Udaipur as a market leader in luxury hospitality.

Rajesh Namby, General Manager of Raffles Udaipur, expressed his confidence in Singh’s leadership, stating:
“We are delighted to welcome Ms. Puja Singh to the team at India’s first Raffles, Udaipur. Her extensive experience, vibrant personality, and deep passion for marketing and hospitality will undoubtedly make her an invaluable asset to our journey. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective, which will play a pivotal role in enhancing our brand’s presence and reputation.”

Singh’s approach has always emphasized aligning marketing strategies with brand values to create meaningful guest connections. From branding F&B outlets to designing visually impactful campaigns and curating locally inspired culinary experiences, her work reflects a deep understanding of guest engagement and market trends.

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Wyndham Garden Sonipat Murthal is located off NH-44 and just a short drive from NH-334B, the KMP Expressway and Sonipat junction, making travel from Delhi to North India states of Punjab,Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir highly smooth and convenient. The hotel has 82 contemporary spacious rooms and a host of amenities.

“This opening marks a significant milestone in Wyndham’s ongoing expansion across India. As our first Wyndham Garden hotel in the country, it strengthens our presence in the growing North India market, especially in the rapidly developing NCR region. With improved infrastructure and convenient access to major travel hubs like Delhi’s airport, we look forward to providing guests with exceptional comfort, modern amenities, and a memorable stay.” said Dimitris Manikis, President , Wyndham Hotels & Resorts EMEA.

“We are excited to open our hotel that is affiliated with the internationally recognized “Wyndham Garden” brand. The chain is growing rapidly in the country and we are well aligned with the brand focus to provide the guests a comfortable stay enabling stress-free, easy travel.” said Mahesh Gupta, Chairman and Managing Director, Rajdhani Realcon Private Limited. 

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Hilton Kyoto

The new hotel becomes the fifth property under the Hilton portfolio to open in Kyoto, joining ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts; DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Higashiyama; DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station; and Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma. 

“We are thrilled to open Hilton’s flagship brand hotel in Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. With its strategic location and signature Hilton hospitality, Hilton Kyoto is ideally suited to serve business and leisure demand in the Kyoto market. The hotel is well-positioned to meet the diverse needs of guests along with our four other hotels in the city,” said Joseph Khairallah, Area Vice President, Head of Japan, Korea & Micronesia, Hilton. “We look forward to providing our signature hospitality and thoughtful service to both international and domestic guests in Kyoto.” 

Hilton Kyoto is situated in the Kawaramachi Sanjo neighborhood, approximately 15 minutes by car from Kyoto Station or a two-minute walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line. The hotel offers convenient access to major tourist attractions such as the world-famous Kiyomizu Temple, known for its distinctive architecture, as well as the Heian Jingu Shrine. Hilton Kyoto is also within walking distance of Gion and Pontocho, entertainment enclaves well-known for their traditional streetscapes. 

Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda

Located within one of Japan’s most exciting urban centers, the hotel offers a thoughtfully curated, boutique stay, drawing inspiration from the vibrant energy and cultural heritage of Osaka. Whether for business or leisure, guests are invited to experience a modern and stylish stay rooted in the culture of the local area. 

“As Osaka prepares to welcome the world to 2025 Expo, we are proud to debut our Canopy by Hilton brand and deliver truly bespoke, locally inspired stays in one of the world’s most sophisticated travel destinations,” said Alan Watts, President, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “Canopy Osaka Umeda represents yet another exciting growth chapter for Hilton – this time within the vibrant, fast-growing lifestyle category – and is set to define new benchmarks for hospitality once again.” 

Located within the expansive GRAND GREEN OSAKA urban complex, the hotel is surrounded by UMEKITA PARK, lifestyle stores, and community spaces that foster idea generation, innovation and collaboration amongst organizations and institutes in public and private sectors. Conveniently located an approximately seven-minute walk from JR Osaka Station, the hotel provides easy access to major JR, Hankyu and Osaka Metro lines, with Kansai International Airport just an hour away by train. In this prime location, the hotel also serves as an ideal base for exploring neighboring cities like Kyoto, Kobe and Nara. As a Canopy signature offering, guests can also immerse themselves in the surrounds with complimentary rental bicycles to explore the unique neighborhoods.

Other local elements that invite guests to explore Osaka’s storied heritage and vibrant spirit include takoyaki-shaped lighting and motifs (a reference to the city’s soul food). These ball-shaped snacks are made with octopus and traditionally eaten with toothpicks – both of which are cleverly and respectively referenced in abstract paintings and hanging pipes. Lift buttons crafted by Kantaro – a signboard shop in Sakai – feature letters handwritten by craftsmen. The property also offers a selection of pet-friendly rooms for those traveling with their beloved furry companions. 

“Canopy Osaka Umeda is the first Canopy by Hilton in Asia Pacific outside of China, making it particularly significant as it paves the way for an exciting future for this vibrant lifestyle brand,” said Alexandra Jaritz, Senior Vice President, Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “With its stylish design, bold and engaging spaces, and innovative culinary offerings, Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda delivers elevated boutique hotel experiences that immerse guests in the essence of the locale.” 

Both Hilton Kyoto and Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda are part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room, and access their room using Digital Key.

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Dinesh’s journey with the Hyatt family began in 2012 when he joined the pre-opening team of Park Hyatt Chennai as an Events Executive. Over the years, he ascended through various senior positions, including, Senior Sales Manager, Associate Director of Sales, and Director of Sales, proving to be an indispensable part of the team.

Reflecting on his return to the Hyatt Regency brand, Dinesh shared, “I am excited to join Hyatt Regency Chennai, a property I admire for its unwavering commitment to excellence. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team to drive growth and create exceptional experiences for our guests and clients.”

Most recently, Dinesh served as Director of Sales at Hyatt Place Hyderabad. With over 14 years of experience, his expertise encompasses sales funnel management, pricing strategies, and key account management, all of which have fueled the success of the properties he has led.

Dinesh embarked on his career after earning an MBA in Marketing Management from Annamalai University. His early roles included senior sales positions at luxury hotels, where he crafted and executed impactful sales plans while managing key partnerships. His leadership and agility in adapting to evolving market trends have been vital in achieving ambitious sales targets.

In his new role, Dinesh will spearhead all sales and marketing efforts at Hyatt Regency Chennai, ensuring the property not only strengthens its market presence but also continues to deliver unparalleled guest services. 

Read more: Appointments