The photograph, taken by UK photographer Jon Enoch in the streets of western Mumbai, captures one of the city’s many candy-floss sellers who use unique ways to display their candy goods in the hope of attracting a buyer.

“I’m ecstatic to receive this award, it’s a real honour to get this recognition in such a prestigious competition laden with wonderful imagery,” says Enoch. “The winning image was part of a personal project – a huge amount of time and thought went into capturing it so it’s great to be recognised by such an esteemed panel of judges. Ever since I first saw the candy floss sellers I was drawn to the shapes, colours and juxtaposition of the candy and the urban environment.”

India’s photographers achieved great success in the competition, with a total of 9 finalists, three of which were category winners. ‘Lost Love – Grandfather’ by Indu Vishwanath Singh won the Food Influencer category. ‘Spices of Indian Household’, a vibrant shot by Amitha A R, won the Young 15 – 17 category. Nikithaa Kumaran won the Food Film Shorts category with ‘Mango Curry’, which captures a lady making a Kerala-style mango curry.

Other photographers with finalist awards included Dheeraj Paul, Sutapa Pal, Indigo Larmour, Deba Prasad Roy, Saurabh Sirohiya and Johncie Correia.

The winners of the 36 categories were announced by acclaimed chef, author and television presenter, Nadiya Hussain MBE, in an exciting Awards ceremony at BAFTA, London on Tuesday 16 May 2023. The ceremony was also live-streamed on the competition’s YouTube channel and was watched by an audience across the globe. 

“Pink Lady® Food Photographer of the Year continues to tell the world’s most important food stories as we adjust again to a new normal. War in Europe, climate change, soaring inflation all to be grappled with,” says Phil Turnbull, CEO of APAL, owner of Pink Lady and headline sponsor of the Awards since 2011. “But at the same time, we continue to grow, forage, cook, eat, celebrate, gather together, feast. Every year, the incredible winning images act as a witness to the centrality of food in every culture in every people across the globe.”

This year’s global judging panel, tasked with assessing the thousands of entries submitted from over 65 countries across the world, was chaired by legendary food photographer, David Loftus, and included: Krishna Madhaven Pillai, Chief Editor, Better Photography Magazine, Fiona Shields, Head of Photography, Guardian News & Media, Chef Ian Kittichai, Restaurateur, Author & TV Host, Ella Ravilious, Curator, The V&A Museum and Nik Sharma, Cookbook author, Photographer, Columnist.

The exhibition of the 2023 Finalists will be premiering at The Royal Photographic Society, one of the world’s oldest photographic societies, in Bristol, England. The exhibition runs from Saturday 20th May – Sunday 11th June and forms part of Bristol’s ‘World Photography in Focus’ during which a number of top international photography competitions, including Wildlife Photographer of the Year and Travel Photographer of the Year, will be exhibiting in the city.

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Located in Northeastern India is the picturesque state of Meghalaya. Bordered by Assam in the North and Bangladesh in the South, Meghalaya is bliss on earth. Meghalaya literally means – ‘The Abode of Clouds,’ and as the name suggests, it is the wettest place on earth with an average annual rainfall of 1,150cm.

With almost one-third of the state covered with lush forests, Meghalaya is truly a natural paradise. Meghalaya’s ethnic communities add their rich cultural heritage to this verdant wonderland. All this makes for an unforgettable experience when you visit the capital of the state – Shillong!

Shillong, the state capital, is the perfect tourist destination

Situated at an altitude of 1,520m above sea level, Shillong, the state capital, is the perfect tourist destination. This picturesque capital is a sight to behold. With its waterfalls, sparkling lakes, pristine brooks, pine groves and gardens, the breathtaking natural beauty of the place enchants visitors who come here from all over the world. Far from the madding crowd, Shillong offers the world-weary traveller a quiet, rejuvenating retreat.

Nestled among forested hills, Shillong experiences a favourable climate throughout the year. There are numerous attractions here that enthrall visitors. Apart from the numerous waterfalls of spectacular beauty, there are many peaks that offer a panoramic view of the surroundings.

Shillong Peak

The Peak is the highest point in Meghalaya, standing at an impressive 1,965 meters above sea level. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, this mesmerizing vantage point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city of Shillong and its surrounding hills. The Indian Air Force has an operational radar station atop the peak, but a designated tourist area is accessible for visitors. The journey to to the peak is a thrilling experience in itself, with winding roads through lush green forests and misty landscapes, making it a memorable destination for all.

Parks and lakes and waterfalls

Shillong, is blessed with an abundance of picturesque parks and serene lakes. Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani, is a vast man-made reservoir surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for boating, picnicking, or simply enjoying the tranquil ambience. Wards Lake is another popular spot, nestled amidst the city’s hustle and bustle, with its charming ornamental bridge and vibrant gardens. This picturesque man-made lake was named after the then Chief Commissioner of Assam. A popular spot for both locals and tourists, Ward’s Lake has short garden walks and also offers boating facilities.

Lady Hydari Park, a well-maintained park with a mini zoo, is an ideal destination for families, while the Botanical Garden boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna for nature enthusiasts to explore.

There are some spectacular falls around Shillong. Located within the Shillong Cantonment, on the outskirts of the city, lies a dazzling waterfall that looks like an eagle with wings spread, hence the name Spread Eagle Falls. Other falls to watch out for are, Sweet Falls, Beadon Falls and Elephant Falls, among several others.

The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians

The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is another must-visit. Located in the heart of Shillong, the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is an architectural marvel and a significant religious landmark. This stunning Gothic-style church, built in 1913, stands atop a hill and is dedicated to Mother Mary.

With its beautiful stained-glass windows, high arches, and lofty spires, the cathedral is a must-visit for its tranquil atmosphere and rich historical significance. The church compound also houses a well-maintained cemetery with graves dating back to the British colonial era.

Shillong Golf Course

Shillong Golf Course is one of the oldest and best natural golf courses in the world. The site where the golf course is located provides a scenic view of the surroundings. One of the oldest and most scenic golf courses in India, Shillong Golf Course is a golfer’s paradise. Established in 1898, this 18-hole course is surrounded by lush pine and rhododendron forests, making it an enchanting location for both players and visitors. The course is open to tourists and offers equipment rentals and professional coaching services, making it an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Nokrek National Park and Biosphere Reserve

Nokrek National Park, nestled in the West Garo Hills, is a UNESCO-recognized Biosphere Reserve and a treasure trove of biodiversity. Home to numerous endemic and endangered species, the park offers visitors an unparalleled experience of Meghalaya’s rich flora and fauna. From the rare red panda and hoolock gibbon to unique orchids and medicinal plants, Nokrek is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The park also boasts the oldest and tallest Citrus indica (Indian wild orange) tree, believed to be the mother tree of all citrus fruits

Home to various wildlife including herds of wild elephants, rare varieties of birds, pheasants and orchids, the Nokrek National Park and Biosphere Reserve located in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya and 45km from Tura is a nature lover’s paradise.

Mawsynram – wettest place on earth

Mawsynram is a small village in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya state, 56km from Shillong. Reportedly the wettest place on earth, Mawsynram receives an average annual rainfall of 11,872mm. A visit to Mawsynram offers an incredible experience of the region’s heavy rainfall, lush greenery, and misty landscapes.

The Mawjymbuin Cave, with its stalagmite formation resembling a Shivalinga, is a popular attraction, along with numerous waterfalls that come alive during the monsoon season. The village also showcases the unique culture and traditions of the local Khasi tribe.

Sohra is a natural wonderland

Previously known as Cherrapunjee, Sohra is located on a plateau on the southern slopes of the state. Dotted with numerous waterfalls cascading over deep gorges, Sohra is a natural wonderland. Set against the backdrop of a stunning landscape, it is an enchanting corner of the Northeast that is waiting to be discovered.

Mawlynnong is the cleanest village in Asia

Located in the East Khasi Hills District, about 90km from Shillong, Mawlynnong has earned the distinction of being the cleanest village in Asia. Mawlynnong is often referred to as “God’s Own Garden,” because of its natural beauty. Mawlynnong offers a unique and refreshing experience for visitors. The village is adorned with well-maintained gardens, bamboo dustbins, and cobblestone paths, showcasing the locals’ commitment to sustainable living.

Mawlynnong is also home to the enchanting living root bridges, a marvel of bioengineering by the indigenous Khasi tribe. These unique bridges, made from the roots of the rubber fig tree, are a testament to the harmonious relationship between the locals and their environment. This picturesque village offers many interesting sights, such as the strange natural phenomenon of a boulder balancing on another rock.

The village, which has a cent per cent literacy, is also taking the lead in spreading the message of conservation and protection. A dustbin made out of bamboo is found all along the village and everyone makes it a point that dirt and waste are not thrown everywhere. Mawlynnong’s fame draws an endless stream of guests from India and abroad. The village is also an artist’s delight and would appeal to creative writers and poets.

Nature quests and adventure

The abundance of nature in and around Shillong satiates even those with the biggest appetite for quests and adventure. The most popular activities include jungle safari, angling, bird watching, nature walking, trekking, adventure sports, etc. Enjoying caving in the baffling caves of Syndai and Siju is a curious and exciting sport. Besides many of the rivers, Umiam Water Sports Complex (at Khasi Hills) is a paradise for water sports lovers.

Trekking through the lush forests of the Khasi Hills, exploring the depths of the mysterious caves in Cherrapunjee, and rappelling down the thundering waterfalls are just a few exhilarating activities to indulge in. The region also offers thrilling experiences such as zip-lining, river canyoning, and rock climbing for adrenaline junkies. For those interested in wildlife, the numerous national parks and sanctuaries in the area provide the perfect setting for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The diverse landscapes of Meghalaya are sure to satiate the wanderlust of every nature lover and adventure enthusiast.

How to Reach

By Air

There is a small airport at Umroi, about 35km from Shillong. At present, Air India operates with ATR42 type of aircraft on this route. Buses/taxis are available from Shillong to Umroi and back. Another convenient airport, the Gopinath Bordoloi Airport in Guwahati (128km from Shillong) is connected to the rest of India with regular flights. Helicopter services are also available from Guwahati to Shillong and back daily, except on Sunday.

By Rail

There are no rail lines in Meghalaya. The nearest railway station is Guwahati. It is 104km from Shillong and very well connected with all major cities of India.

By Road

National Highway 40, an all-weather road, connects Shillong with Guwahati. State Transport Corporation and private transport operators have services to various places in Meghalaya and to neighbouring states.

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September, with its pleasant weather and a wide variety of well-known festivals and events, provides people with the greatest weekend getaways and recreational opportunities possible.

The festivals and fairs that take place in September are an ideal fusion of tradition and the brisk winter weather.

The following are the festivals and fairs that will be taking place in the month of September:

Athachamayam

This annual cultural festival offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see practically all of Kerala‘s traditional folk-art forms in one place.

A large party marks the start of the ten-day Onam Festival, and it is a time for revelry. It is held at Thripunithura near Kochi each year on the Atham asterism of the Malayalam month of Chingam (about around August/September) to celebrate the victory of the Raja (King) of Kochi in the Battle of Thripunithura.

During the parade, there is a spectacular representation of the King and his court on display. This parade is accompanied by elephants in tusks, floats, musical bands, and a variety of traditional folk-art forms.

Onam

Date: 8 September

The festival of Onam is the most important celebration in the Indian state of Kerala. The Onam Festival takes place during the Malayali month of Chingam (August to September) and commemorates the return of mythical King Mahabali to his homeland.

The Onam Carnival takes place over ten days and showcases the finest of Kerala‘s culture and history. Households are decorated with gorgeous floral carpets, ancient art forms and activities can be found everywhere, and dwellings are meticulously cleaned and kept in immaculate condition.

Vishwakarma Puja

Date: 17 September

This auspicious day is devoted to Lord Vishwakarma, who is widely regarded as the almighty architect. Lord Vishwakarma is the architect of all of the temples of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, as well as the weapons and equipment used by these deities.

Each year, the festival of Vishwakarma Puja commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Vishwakarma. It comes on the day of Kanya Sankranti, which is celebrated on the 16th or 17th of September each year, respectively. The holiday of Vishwakarma Jayanti is celebrated with great zeal and fervor by laborers, carpenters, mechanics, artisans, and other workers across the country.

Neelamperoor Padayani

Date: 27 September

Located in the village of Neelamperoor in the Kuttanadu taluk of the Alappuzha district of Kerala, the Neelamperoor Padayani is a ceremonial celebration celebrated every year. In this day-long event, participants create numerous shrines of human and non-human entities, which are also used in the performance of rituals and other activities.

There are many various types of performances in Kerala, and Neelamperoor Padayani is the only sort of padayani that creates effigies rather than performing dances with masks and headgear, as is the case with other varieties of padayani.

Lonavala International Film Festival

Date: 24 – 26 September

The Lonavala International Film Festival is nothing less of a cinematic extravaganza that draws in crowds and keeps them glued to their seats whenever it is hosted. While the media is believed to be the fourth pillar of democracy, the film is also taken into consideration these days.

The Lonavala International Film Festival, which honors the efforts of authors, poets, cinematographers, and directors, to mention a few, guarantees that the film fraternity is recognized for the amount of work it puts forth in the process of creating films on an annual basis.

Solung Festival

Date: 1-7 September

The ‘Solung’ festival in Arunachal Pradesh is the most important socio-religious celebration of the ‘Adis’ tribe. As a general rule, the Adi month of ‘Tauno’ and ‘Yio’ is celebrated in September, which corresponds to the middle of the year. Solung in Arunachal Pradesh is praised for reaping a bountiful crop after spreading seeds and transplanting rice plants, and for raising additional paddy plants.

The festivities are divided into three major parts: Sopi—-Yekpi (the first part, which is the sacrifice day), Binnayat (the second part, which is the ceremonial offering to the goddess of harvests, Kine Nane), and Ekop (the third portion, which is the celebration of the harvest festival) (also known as Taktor; the tradition made for protection safeguarding against harms by evil spirits)

Pang Lhabsol Festival

Pang Lhabsol is one of the most well-known festivities in Sikkim. Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain and India’s highest peak, is the focus of this event, which is held every year in April.

This mountain is revered as the protector god of the state of Sikkim. As one of the most popular carnivals in Sikkim, it is commemorated with a huge extent of grandeur and splendor and adds color and elegance to the state’s already vibrant landscape. The vibrant and diverse hues play an important part in the celebration’s cultural atmosphere.

Abhaneri Festival 

Date: 17-19 September

The Abhaneri Festival, which was inaugurated by Rajasthan Tourism in 2008, is one of the liveliest events in the state. The Abhaneri Festival is held in the Rajasthani area of Dausa every year.

It comes to life the state’s diverse landscape and emphasizes the finest that the state has to offer in regards to lush national parks, historic hotels, magnificent museums, luxury trains, gourmet food, and the many fairs and festivals that the state hosts.

Latin Festival Madras

Date: 2-4 September

The Latin Festival Madras is a multi-faceted event that encompasses more than simply dancing. With this project, the city of Chennai would be exposed to international dancers while simultaneously becoming a destination for visitors who like dancing. It claims to be a carnival-like event, complete with parties, travel, cuisine, and holiday experiences tossed in for kicks and giggles.

Ziro Festival of Music

Located in the Ziro region in the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, the Ziro Event of Music is an outdoor concert festival that takes place every year. It serves as a platform for India’s indie music sector.

Event founders Bobby Hano and Anup Kuttyhe established the festival in 2012. The festival takes place over four days in Ziro and is sponsored by members of the Apatani tribe.

The Ziro Festival of Music features a diverse range of musical genres, ranging from Indie folk performed by musicians from the region’s North East to worldwide melodies performed by members of the festival’s international boards.

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Effective immediately, the Public Health Commissioner has announced that only vaccinated visitors from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh who have completed two weeks after their second dose are permitted to travel to and enter Seychelles with proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

This should be submitted at the time of application for Health Travel Authorization and are subject to verification and approval of the Public Health Authority.

All travellers will be required to present a negative PCR test taken a maximum 72 hours prior to departure. There will be no quarantine requirement, minimum stay nor restriction on movement for them upon entry into Seychelles.

It is not mandatory for children under 18 years of age to be vaccinated and can enter the country after presenting a negative PCR test taken a maximum of 72 hours prior to departure.

However, all visitors will still be required to adhere to other public health measures put in place in view of the pandemic which will include wearing face masks, social distancing, regular sanitisation and washing of hands.

Seychelles had opened its borders for tourists around the world from March 25, 2021, in light of the success registered in the aggressive vaccination campaign that the country embarked on earlier in the year.

The small island nation off the east coast of Africa whose economy is based primarily on tourism was the first country in the Indian Ocean region to launch a bold, comprehensive and effective Covid-19 immunisation campaign, in January 2021. 

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This, in turn, will motivate teams to delve into themselves and bring out their lesser-known selves.

Even though a picture is worth a thousand words, sometimes the right words are just what you need to make it through the day, to inspire your team, or to change your perspective.

Today’s Traveller: How do you keep up your team’s morale?

Sammy Yahia: This past year has been a challenging one for the entire world, but particularly testing for the tourism industry.  The team at the Israel Ministry of Tourism in India, though small, is a passionate team that has continued its efforts in promoting Israel throughout the pandemic.

 As the Director of the Israel Ministry of Tourism’s India office, I feel it is my responsibility to ensure that my team, which is truly my strength, continues to find the work to be challenging and yet enjoyable.

By creating transparency within our team, and providing an environment that nurtures their creativity, not only helped create a better connection with our partners, but has also maintained a healthy, productive, and cohesive work environment.

Today’s Traveller: A major milestone which shaped you as a Leader

Sammy Yahia: I began working at a very young age, using this opportunity to explore different avenues to find my passion.  At first, it was within my neighbourhood, helping local businesses, though as time went on and I started to focus on what I enjoyed, so I attended university to enhance my skills and learn new ones.

In 2000 I founded The Back Door, a resto-lounge in my hometown of Haifa, a beautiful port city steeped in history, culture, and diversity.  It was here that I learned some of my most valuable lessons in business and in life. 

Through all the trials and tribulations, I learned the values of hard work, running my own business, and the most important asset for any successful business – the people.  The team that worked for me was one of the most important factors that contributed to my professional growth and success.

The experiences at my businesses have helped me face many challenges from all sides and taught me how to overcome them.  All of this has led me here, to India, and has helped me promote all the amazing things about my homeland, Israel. 

Today’s Traveller: How do you approach a challenge?

Sammy Yahia: When a challenge presents itself, I see it as an opportunity to learn something new.  I believe that every challenge has multiple solutions.

 I tackle every challenge with the same level of dedication.  By analysing the issue, identifying different angles of approach, selecting the most advantageous solution, and strategizing an effective execution. I have tried many different methods to successfully overcome a challenge, but this is the method I have found to be the most favourable. 

All of this is possible with the right attitude combined with support from a strong team, in India and Israel, which has made navigating tricky situations less challenging.

Today’s Traveller: What are the learnings during the Covid-19 pandemic?

Sammy Yahia: 2020 was a year that started with immense promise but all that changed when the pandemic was announced a few weeks later.  It has been an extremely challenging time, where many people had to adjust to new routines overnight. 

However, this pandemic has also presented many opportunities to learn new skills, as well as revisit past passions. I have learned many valuable things this last year though the most important, for me, was patience.

Patience is an understated trait, especially in today’s technology-driven world.  This last year has taught me the value of slowing down, cherishing the people in my life, and optimising the work that I do, while keeping up with the constant unknown around us.  All these experiences led to the most exciting change for me, I have found an amazing woman who I will marry this year.

Today’s Traveller: What is that one thing that you cannot miss?

Sammy Yahia: Work is one of the few things that I cannot miss, though I am not a workaholic. I enjoy the work that I do as on many occasions it has led me to different countries like India and the Philippines where I am the Director of Tourism.

My work has exposed me to different cultures, where I have met with people from different parts of the world who share the same interest in travel as me, and I am introduced to new and interesting ways of experiencing life.

Today’s Traveller: Which non-professional activities give you energy and satisfaction?

Sammy Yahia: I like to be busy but also slow down and explore my creativity.  I enjoy cooking and experimenting with Mediterranean flavours. I also enjoy painting, something I have also picked up during the last year.

 Being in the tourism industry, travel is an underlying passion for most of us, and the same is for me. I love travelling to different cities and countries, learning about their customs and cultures.  

On many of my travels, I have found some beautiful antiques that have made their way back home with me.  Another one of my passions is vintage cars.  When I was in Haifa, I used to work on my vintage car, and now that she is restored, I enjoy going on long drives, with the top down, all over Israel.

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 With a portfolio of 39 hotels across key cities in India, IHG® Hotels & Resorts , have always been at the forefront of the wedding events business in the country. 

Since the gradual easing of restrictions in India, IHG has reopened hotels across its portfolio and reinstated its position as a leader in the segment. 

Conforming with local guidelines and capacity limits set by the authorities, IHG hotels in India have hosted multiple wedding events across markets, including Delhi NCR, Noida, Jaipur, Chennai, Kochi and Ahmedabad, since June 2020.

Furthermore, IHG’s hotels across the country are receiving on average 20-25 enquiries per month as the wedding season approaches.

Additionally, the group is responding to enquiries for other social events such as milestone celebrations for anniversaries and birthdays as well as religious or traditional events.

 While the wedding events size is guided by the limit allowed by the local authorities, IHG is currently hosting smaller wedding events for guests across a range of budgets, from approximately INR 70,000 to INR 20,00,000 and above, depending on the required arrangements, across its mainstream, upscale and luxury hotels.

Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, SWA, IHG said: “Wedding events have always been an important business segment for us – contributing significantly towards the hotel catering and banqueting revenues. Since the easing of Covid-19 related restrictions, our hotels have successfully hosted many smaller weddings and other social events for occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries.”

He pointed out, “We were quick to adapt to health and safety regulations for social gatherings, understand changes in guests’ requirements and respond with suitable, safe offerings to meet their needs. With further easing of restrictions and increased capacity limits expected in some markets, our hotels are receiving more enquiries and bookings for the remainder of the year and for Q1 2021, as well.” 

Shared Jain, “At the peak of the wedding season this year, this segment is expected to contribute approximately 70% of total catering revenue and approximately 15-18% of the total revenue across different IHG hotels in India.”

He added: “Across our brands, we have invested in the right resources, safety procedures, facilities and created custom experiences to make our guests’ wedding day as memorable as possible, not just for the bride and groom but also for their family and friends. Our priority at this time is the safety of our guests with our enhanced cleaning and strict social distancing measures and ensuring that we provide them with the best experience to make their special occasions even more joyful.”

While local restrictions and social distancing measures brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic have prompted some families to postpone their ‘great Indian wedding’ plans for the foreseeable future, other families have embraced the challenges of the situation and decided to proceed with the important milestones in their lives. 

The unique circumstances of such wedding events have ushered in a trend of smaller ceremonies and intimate celebrations with close friends and families.

Keeping this in mind, IHG has enhanced the experience for its hotel guests, by redefining cleanliness and supporting guests’ personal wellbeing throughout their event and stay at the hotel.

Using new, scientific protocols and service measures, partnering with industry leading experts Cleveland Clinic, Ecolab and Diversey, and launching a global IHG Clean Promise, these strengthened measures are giving guests greater confidence and hotel teams the protection needed.

For all social events, teams across IHG hotels ensure that every guest touch point is sanitized and proper hygiene is maintained across all operations, throughout the event. Hotels are using technology – where it can make a difference, deploying enhanced, highly visible and more frequent cleaning measures, and applying new standards and service approach to food and beverages as well.

IHG has some great properties across brands including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express, that have customised their venues, services and menus to cater to smaller events with a relentless focus on health and safety.

Read More: Weddings

Thailand-based Dusit International announced its expansion into India with a plan to open at least two Dusit-branded hotels per year from 2021 onwards in Tier I and Tier II cities – such as Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore – as well as key leisure destinations throughout the country.

Alongside the signing of Dusit Princess Serviced Suites Kolkata, under a franchise agreementwith the Jain Group, a leading Real Estate, Hospitality and Finance organisation based in Kolkata, Dusit is already in talks with other potential owners and is on course to conclude at least four more signings within the next 12 months.

Following a strategy to focus on quality hotel products that help owners maximise the value of their assets, Dusit’s planned expansion includes exquisite palace conversions where the company aims to uniquely combine its distinctive brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality with local customs and traditions to create luxury hotel experiences that deliver sustainable value for the wider community.

India is one of the top source markets for Dusit Hotels and Resorts worldwide, with Indian travellers second only to Chinese in terms of room nights generated in 2019. Domestic travellers also fondly remember the luxury Dusit Devarana in New Delhi, which operated from 2014 – 2017.

With India’s fast-growing middle class expected to reach 583 million people – or 41% of India’s projected population – by 2025, Dusit also sees huge potential for its high-end offerings in this burgeoning market. Alongside Dusit Princess and Dusit Devarana, this includes the upper-upscale Dusit Thani and upscale dusitD2 brands.

“While COVID-19 has brought immense challenges, we remain confident that our resilient industry can and will bounce back, and we expect India to be a key player in international and domestic tourism in the brighter days ahead,” said Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. 

Slated to open in Q2 2022 as part of Jain Group’s high-end residential development project, Dream One, the 42 three-bedroom unit- Dusit Princess Serviced Suites Kolkata is only five minutes by car from both the city centre and the airport, and just one minute from Kalakshetra Metro Station.

A swimming pool, an all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant, and a fitness and wellness centre will be among the recreational facilities. Banqueting and meeting facilities will also be available for small and midscale events.

Shrayans Jain, Vice President, Jain Group, said, “In the new normal following COVID-19, Indian travellers will be increasingly seeking brands they can trust to deliver the high levels of safety, comfort and convenience they deserve.”

Dusit International’s property portfolio now comprises more than 300 properties operating under six brands across 13 countries. 

The company is represented in India by Deepika Arora, who is part of the core team responsible for Dusit’s market growth and expansion in South Asia and Africa. She is based at Dusit’s offices in Delhi.

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