Chandigarh, August 29, 2024: WeWork India, the leading flexible workspace provider in the country, is partnering with Uber, India’s leading ridesharing app, to offer a seamless commuting solution to their 70,000+ members. This collaboration is set to redefine commuting convenience, providing a range of travel benefits designed to support WeWork India members in their day-to-day operations.

Through this partnership, WeWork India members will gain access to Uber for Business, a B2B2C platform that allows organisations to consumerise Uber’s extensive suite of travel benefits for business riders, ensuring a seamless commuting experience that aligns with their mobility needs. Members will have access to a uniquely built travel benefits program that includes user-friendly payment options, improved reliability and flexible cancellation. They can choose from Uber’s range of premium and economy options, tailored to their comfort and needs, including latest products like Uber Reserve, Uber Rentals, Uber Intercity, Uber Shuttle, amongst others. Members will also get exclusive access to premium ride options such as Business Premier, which curates top-rated drivers for a more comfortable commuting and business ride experience.

Commenting on the collaboration, Abhinav Mittoo, Sr. Country GM, Uber for Business, India & South Asia said, “This collaboration aligns with our commitment to enhance and simplify business mobility for dynamic environments and workplaces. Our customer portfolio is growing as organisations are increasingly focusing on cost, digitization and experience of its employees or community. We are excited to partner with WeWork India and its members to help them leverage a tech-based mobility solution that not only optimises travel needs to enhance productivity, but also provides a more safer and reliable way to move around. We believe this partnership will be instrumental in creating a more connected and convenient mobility experience for their vibrant community.”

“Our collaboration with Uber is a significant step towards enhancing the daily lives of our members by offering them a seamless and convenient commuting experience. By integrating Uber’s mobility solutions with our flexible workspaces, we’re not only simplifying their journey to work but also reinforcing our commitment to creating a holistic and sustainable work environment that meets the evolving needs of modern professionals. Furthermore, Uber’s safety technology and community guidelines will ensure a safe, secure, and positive experience for our members,” said Raghuvinder Singh Pathania, Head of Community & Operations, WeWork India.

As part of this collaboration, all WeWork India members will receive a one-time incentive upon activating their WeWork profile on the Uber App. This partnership will be stitched across all WeWork locations in India and will be supercharged with Uber for Business’ Tech implementation to ensure a seamless launch across the WeWork India community. While WeWork India is focused on its sustainability impact by improving mobility access at its locations, Uber for Business will also fuel the rider experience with their 24×7 premium business support, built to offer an elevated servicing framework.

Since its inception in 2017, WeWork India’ has constantly focused on elevating the workplace experience for members. This partnership reflects the brand’s ongoing commitment towards enhancing it further by providing innovative and sustainable solutions. By leveraging Uber’s expertise in mobility, WeWork India aims to offer an unparalleled commuting experience, contributing to productivity and work-life balance of members.

Unfolds new products ahead of festivals & holiday season

Mumbai, August 28: Riding on a high-growth trajectory, Kerala Tourism has unfolded a range of fresh products and packages to whip up new interest among travellers from both inside the country and outside in the upcoming festive and winter holiday seasons.

Alongside the new projects, the state’s core assets like beaches, hill stations, houseboats and backwater segment will continue to have a mesmeric charm for the visitors. Kerala’s unique touristy appeal lies in providing a diverse range of experiences for tourists like houseboats, caravan stays, plantation visits, jungle lodges, homestays, Ayurveda-based wellness solutions, adventure activities, countryside walks, and trekking to verdant hills.

Kerala’s resilience in putting its pandemic-hit tourism industry back on the rail is evident from an appreciable surge in domestic arrivals. In pre-COVID times, it was the year 2019 when the state registered the highest growth rate in domestic and total tourist arrivals in 24 years with their number pegged at 1,95,74,004, comprising 1,83,84,233 domestic tourists and 11,89,771 visitors from abroad.

In 2023, it witnessed a record surge in the number of domestic tourists with as many as 21,871,641 people visiting the state. The number of international tourists was pegged at 6,49,057.

As for the first quarter (January-March) of 2024, Kerala attracted 50,37,307 domestic tourists compared to 49,36,274 visitors in the corresponding period a year earlier, registering a 2.05 per cent increase, in a rousing endorsement of its touristy appeal. Equally assuring for Kerala is the uptick in international tourist arrivals, which are expected to reach the pre-COVID levels by 2025.

Tourism Minister Shri PA Mohamed Riyas says the focus will no longer be confined to beaches, backwaters and hill stations. “We are making a calibrated move to bolster Kerala’s reputation as an all-weather hospitable destination. Our latest offerings will spark new interest among the visitors as it makes Kerala a compelling experiential tourist hotspot for all segments of visitors, be it an upscale globetrotting tourist, a honeymooning couple, a backpacker, or an adventure-seeker.”

An upshot of the sustained efforts to rejuvenate the tourism sector was Kerala Tourism’s digital marketing campaign bagging the prestigious PATA Gold Award. The New York Times had included Kerala in its list of ‘52 must-visit places in 2023’.

Kerala Travel Mart, Asia’s largest tourism event, is slated to be held in September to boost the state’s tourism sector. More than 1,500 domestic buyers and 650 foreign buyers have already registered for the event.

Kerala will also host an international conference on gender-inclusive tourism in October to showcase the state’s success in promoting participatory development in tourism through the Responsible Tourism scheme and address the issues faced by women travellers.

“We are transforming the whole of Kerala into a sustainable, interconnected tourist haven where visitors get plenty of choices and diverse experiences within the few days they spend in the state,” said Shri Biju K, Secretary – Tourism, Government of Kerala.

“It will make the stay of new-age travellers a relaxing, rejuvenating, safe and learning experience by unfolding before them the captivating charm of Kerala’s rural hinterland and lesser-known places,” he added.

Among the new offerings is heli-tourism, which has been hailed as a game changer. The project —Sky Initiative— is aimed at providing one-day travel between the state’s top tourist destination. Another offering is caravan tourism—Keravan Kerala—that takes tourism deep into the state’s interiors and rural hinterlands.

In order to create an appreciable surge in tourist footfalls, tour operators and hoteliers in Kerala are offering attractive packages for the festival and winter holiday seasons. Alongside, international bookings are also witnessing an upswing in the upcoming holiday season.

“Started with a Partnership Meet in Vadodara, followed by Surat, Kerala Tourism has planned a string of travel trade networking activities, including participation in Trade Fairs and organizing B2B roadshows, to introduce the new products to a wider audience across the country”, said Smt. Sikha Surendran, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala.

Apart from Mumbai, B2B meets will be held in Pune on August 29th, followed by similar Partnership Meets in Chennai and Kolkata in the coming months.

“Our continuous and innovative initiatives to reach our target markets through various promotional means have successfully placed Kerala as a must-visit destination, and this will remain our focus in the future as well. Also, MICE, Destination Weddings, Responsible Tourism, adventure, wellness and will be taken forward with greater vigour,” she added.

Bollywood star Kartik Aaryan has recently rented out his property in Mumbai’s upscale Juhu locality for Rs. 4.5 lakh per month, reflecting the ongoing strength in real estate activity. The transaction, reviewed by Square Yards, was officially registered with a stamp duty of Rs. 42,500. The property, situated within Siddhi Vinayak Presidency Co-operative Housing, spans 1,912 sq. ft. (177.72 sq. m).

Aaryan originally purchased and registered the apartment on June 30, 2024, for Rs. 17.5 crore, jointly with his mother, Mala Tiwari. The purchase incurred a stamp duty of Rs. 1.05 crore and a registration fee of Rs. 30,000, including two car parking spaces. According to SquareYards.com, the rental yield on Aaryan’s property stands at 3.1%. This transaction is part of Aaryan’s broader real estate portfolio; in July 2023, his mother and father together invested Rs. 16.5 crore in an apartment on the 8th floor of the same housing project.

The housing society is located in Juhu, a favourite among celebrities, which is known for its scenic beachfront and vibrant atmosphere, with numerous luxury high-rises offering sea views. The locality’s appeal is further heightened by its proximity to a range of high-end amenities, making it a highly desirable address for celebrities, professionals, and businesspeople alike. Earlier this year, renowned screenwriter, poet, and lyricist Javed Akhtar also purchased a property in Juhu, underscoring the area’s continued popularity among the elite as reported by Square Yards.

Kartik Aaryan has rapidly risen to prominence as one of India’s most popular and bankable young stars, with successful films like Pyaar Ka Punchnama, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2. His charming on-screen presence and relatable performances have earned him a massive fan following, establishing him as a leading figure in the new generation of Bollywood actors. His recent performance in Chandu Champion has been well-received, and his film Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is slated for release this Diwali.

The Dwarka Expressway has rapidly emerged as a premier choice for investors in the bustling real estate sector of Delhi-NCR. Its strategic importance in national infrastructure plans has significantly driven economic growth and transformed Gurugram’s skyline. The recent operational launch of an underpass on the Dwarka Expressway has enhanced traffic management and accessibility, bolstering the area’s appeal for investments. The segment inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gurugram has seen a surge in property values, presenting significant opportunities for investors and potential homeowners. This zone is now recognized as a prime location for upscale residential and commercial developments, positioning it as a sought-after sub-market in the National Capital Region.

Mr. Mohit Malhotra, Founder and CEO of NEOLIV, commented, “Haryana portion of the long-awaited Northern Peripheral road (also known as Dwarka Expressway) is now serving as a pivotal milestone in enhancing the creation of high growth residential pockets via seamless connectivity and mobility.

Efforts such as metro expansion, upgraded public transport, road extensions, and new flyovers have significantly raised the area’s attractiveness. These enhancements support homebuyers seeking a contemporary lifestyle with seamless connectivity to Delhi and other critical areas.

Sharing his views, Mr. Vineet Dawar, Senior VP of Sales & Strategy at Elan Group, mentioned that, “Dwarka Expressway is fast emerging as a prime location for real estate investment due to a confluence of factors. Its strategic positioning within NCR offers excellent connectivity, potentially linking residents to key business districts, airports, and major transportation hubs. The expressway itself is designed for efficient travel, further enhancing accessibility. Additionally, the area boasts a flourishing corporate landscape, creating job opportunities and attracting a growing workforce, which in turn fuels demand for housing. Furthermore, ongoing infrastructure enhancements beyond just the expressway and the limited supply of luxury homes are expected to make the entire location even more desirable. Once the expressway is fully operational, its potential for improved connectivity will be fully realized, likely leading to a significant rise in property values.”

Additionally, the region is experiencing the emergence of high-end business parks and office complexes, fostering a vibrant commercial ecosystem. The advancements in the expressway’s infrastructure are attracting various businesses, which are driving the development of retail projects and mixed-use complexes.

Adding to this, Vivek Singhal, CEO of Smartworld Developers, said, “. The residential segment is expected to spearhead this phenomenal growth, reflecting the changing preferences of homebuyers. The presence of thriving commercial hubs, robust social infrastructure, and impeccable connectivity has cemented the region’s reputation as an unbeatable real estate option. The locality boasts exceptional connectivity, enhanced infrastructure, and a dynamic blend of retail and residential developments, making it an alluring and financially rewarding investment opportunity. The swift progress in infrastructure deserves commendation for its role in bolstering investor confidence and attracting prospective homebuyers, ultimately contributing to this remarkable achievement.”

Aman Nagar, JMD of Paras Buildtech, commented, “The inauguration of the Dwarka Expressway has brought transformation in the commercial real estate landscape of the area. The region’s improved connectivity and infrastructure are expected to draw businesses and investors, leading to an increase in the demand for commercial real estate. The shortened travel time between Delhi and Gurgaon has facilitated easy access to both markets, generating fresh prospects for growth and expansion. Consequently, the demand for office and retail space is expected to escalate, with businesses vying to establish a foothold in the area. As the local economy burgeons, a corresponding rise in the demand for amenities and services is projected to create openings for investors and developers to construct retail and hospitality projects.”

Shashank Vashishtha, Executive Director of Exp Realty India, added, “The expressway’s state-of-the-art infrastructure and exceptional connectivity have transformed it into an exceedingly desirable location for real estate investments in the National Capital Region (NCR), enticing both end-users and investors. Expert analysts forecast a noteworthy transformation in the real estate industry, as improved infrastructure and connectivity invite more businesses and investors, stimulating the demand for office and retail space. ”

The Dwarka Expressway’s strategic importance and ongoing infrastructure advancements have made it a top investment destination in the Delhi-NCR real estate market. Its rapid transformation and the influx of high-end projects signal a promising future for this dynamic corridor, ensuring sustained economic growth and development.

The culinary scene at Bengaluru just got more exciting as multiple Hilton hotels across the city celebrate their annual F & B initiative named ‘Chefs of Hilton’ where signature creations of chefs across the luxury, full service and focused service portfolio of Hilton are on the offering. This bespoke journey is the confluence of the finest minds from Hilton properties who come together to showcase the best-kept secrets from their homelands, offering a voyage filled with rich and diverse flavours. From the streets of Bihar to the mountains of Tibet, and the deserts of Rajasthan, ‘Chefs of Hilton’ will focus on authenticity, heritage, and culinary mastery, culminating in an extraordinary dining experience.

Chefs at Conrad Bengaluru, Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks and DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield curate signature creations, crafted with exquisite flavors and meticulous presentation, and uncover the inspirations and passions behind each culinary masterpiece.

From exclusive meet-the-chef stories to behind-the-scenes insights, join us for a glimpse into the world of Hilton’s culinary masters where we celebrate culinary diversity. This event promises a unique fusion of traditional techniques, modern twists, and innovative flair, showcasing exceptional talent and creativity at the heart of Hilton’s dynamic team of chefs until September 2024.

Chef Mohammed Eliyaz, Executive Chef at Conrad Bengaluru – with deep-rooted passion for the gastronomy landscape, Chef Eliyaz is known for his expertise in conceptualising and crafting signature and seasonal menus alike. Chef Eliyaz will present fusion dishes like Chicken Tiradito and Fish Tamale.

With his motto of “Cooking is Art”, Chef Nessamani from Conrad Bengaluru will present a modern, fusion touch to South Indian cuisine, presenting a contemporary twist to its traditional dishes. Chef will present Cholam Triology (Corn ribs, popcorn cream, cornmeal upma), Seabass Kunafa (Moilee, Coconut strussels)

Meet Chef Ramadas Chandran, Chef de Partie at DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield. With over 15 years of experience in the culinary world, his passion for South Indian cuisine reflects in every dish he creates. Hailing from the vibrant state of Kerala, he brings an authentic touch to every plate, infusing his creations with the rich flavors and traditions of his homeland.

Meet Kalil Rahuman Kadhar, Pastry Chef at DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield. Chef Kalil draws inspiration from one of Kerala’s finest pastry chefs, his global journey further ignited his passion. With over 15 years of experience, Chef Kalil has honed his skills across multiple countries, working with renowned brands and drawing inspiration from time-tested traditions.

Hailing from the culturally rich state of Bihar, Chef Irfan Ahmed is a master of authentic Indian cuisine. At Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, Chef Irfan meticulously crafts dishes that celebrate the rich flavors of Bihar, infusing each creation with a touch of family tradition and an unwavering attention to detail.

From the serene landscapes of Tibet, Chef Tashi Dakpa brings a fusion of tradition and innovation to the table. At Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Manyata, Chef Tashi reinterprets the beloved ‘Tsampa,’ a traditional Tibetan dish cherished by generations. Drawing inspiration from this heritage, he crafts a German interpretation of Tsampa, presenting a unique culinary experience that marries Tibetan tradition with contemporary flair.

From the sun-kissed deserts of Rajasthan, Chef Jagdish Dewashi emerges as a culinary virtuoso with unparalleled expertise in Marwari and Rajasthani cuisine. His journey through the heartland of India has imbued him with a profound appreciation for the region’s culinary traditions. At Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Manyata, Chef Dewashi brings to life the time-honored traditions of “Shakahari” cuisine.

Chef Gaurav, Executive Chef at Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks, started his journey 18 years ago in Kolkata, mastering his craft at prestigious establishments. Chef Gaurav’s dishes, such as narkel cholar dal, kumroor chokka, and loochi aamer aachar, are steeped in the flavors of his heritage, offering an authentic taste of Bengal. As an Executive Chef for the past eight years, he has blended traditional Bengali recipes with contemporary techniques, creating dishes that resonate with both nostalgia and innovation.

Chef Tushar Das, Executive Sous Chef at Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks, comes with over 15 years of experience, specializing in Italian cuisine. Chef Tushar’s Italian dishes are a celebration of simplicity and authenticity, using just a few high-quality ingredients to craft rich, memorable flavors. His signature Spaghetti with Aubergine and Mint, enhanced by the tang of Feta cheese, exemplifies his dedication to Italian cuisine while offering a fresh twist.

Speaking on ‘Chefs of Hilton’, Chef Prashant Kulkarni, Director of Food & Beverage Operations – Hilton South Asia highlights “We are excited to collaborate with F&B maestros across Hilton properties. A celebration of stories, flavours and shared experiences, ‘Chefs of Hilton’ is our tribute to culinary art, celebration of exceptional skills and creativity of our chefs, as well as honouring the diversity of global cuisine.”

Conrad Bengaluru is excited to bring together a dynamic group of experts, each a master of world cuisine. This exceptional team of culinary professionals will showcase their unparalleled skills and passion for food, offering a diverse array of unforgettable flavours. Their collective expertise promises to deliver an extraordinary dining experience as they present their finest creations and share their journey in a setting unlike any other.

To know more details, log on to the hotel website: www.conradbengaluru.com

Gurugram, August 29th 2024: M3M India, a leading name in luxury real estate development, and Oravel Stays, the parent company of OYO Hotels & Homes, a global hospitality technology company, have announced a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch the largest SUNDAY Hotel in India. This ambitious project will feature 220 keys at M3M SkyLoft, New Golf Course Road Extension, Gurugram with approximately 1.67 lakh square feet of space, out of 15 lakh square feet.

The hotel is located near the proposed upcoming Cyber City 2 on Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) in Gurugram, making it an attractive option for business travellers and professionals working in the area as well as for those attending meetings and conferences.

This strategic location aligns with the high standards and expectations of discerning travelers seeking exceptional experiences, state-of-the-art amenities, cutting-edge design, and unparalleled services. The Hotel cum Residences offering is set to transform and redefine luxury, convenience, and quality, setting new benchmarks in the commercial real estate and hospitality sectors.

The initiative is a part of a larger partnership to develop luxurious hospitality space across 15 lakh square feet with 1000 keys across multiple destinations in Gurgaon and NOIDA.

The transaction was successfully completed with the assistance of well-known transactional advisory and consultancy firm Corevest advisory.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established between M3M India and Oravel Stays highlights a mutual dedication to the improvement of the urban environment and the delivery of exceptional services and amenities. This strategic alliance is anticipated to stimulate the local economy, generate employment opportunities, and establish new benchmarks within the commercial and hospitality industries.

The project is on the cusp of market entry, poised to attract a diverse array of stakeholders including investors, business proprietors, and tourists in search of upscale experiences in a prime locale. The development is meticulously crafted to cater to the escalating demand for superior commercial spaces and hospitality services within the vicinity.

The project’s architectural design is led by Mr. Zubin Cooper, CEO of Bentel Associates International. His renowned expertise is set to infuse the development with unparalleled sophistication and functionality, ensuring it stands out in the luxury market.

Mr. Sudeep Bhatt, President, M3M India, stated, “We are thrilled to announce the signing of this significant Memorandum of Understanding with Sunday Hotel, marking a pivotal moment for M3M India. This collaboration is a testament to our shared vision of creating unparalleled commercial spaces that redefine luxury and convenience. With this MoU, we are poised to develop 1.5 million square feet of world-class facilities that will set new benchmarks in the industry. We are confident that this partnership will bring immense value to our stakeholders and contribute to the fast growing region.”

Aditya Sharma, Business Head, Oravel Stays Private Limited added “The SUNDAY Hotel partnership with M3M India allows us to expand our footprint in the luxury segment in metro cities beginning with Gurugram which has emerged as one of the key destinations for social events, domestic tourists and long stay international guests. Our shared vision is to create a landmark property that offers the best of comfort, convenience, and sophistication”.

In the current portfolio, M3M India has 56 projects spread across retail, residential, offices, service apartments etc. All of its projects launched prior to 2019 have already been delivered and the construction is in full swing in the rest of the projects. It has an impressive land-bank of 3,000 acres across Gurugram, Noida and Panipat.

SUNDAY Hotel, a premium brand of hotels was originally launched in May 2023 through a joint venture between the Softbank Group and Oravel Stays, the parent company of OYO. The first SUNDAY hotel was launched in Jaipur followed by Vadodara and Chandigarh in India and London and Dubai in overseas markets.