Rubin Cherian
General Manager Novotel Hyderabad Airport
Novotel Hyderabad Airport is strategically located in close proximity to the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and is also in the midst of all the latest investments that have been announced in the business, aerospace and logistics port. Hyderabad is surrounded with a plethora of off-beat destinations which if marketed in the right light have immense potential, especially in today’s world as travellers are looking to explore unexplored spots.
The team at the hotel is extremely agile and keeps a hawk’s eye on the developments happening in the periphery of the hotel to leverage all the possible business opportunities emanating from them. While the international travel restriction has been extended till March 31, 2021, it is quite encouraging to see that domestic corporate MICE is gradually gaining pace supported with weddings and social events.
We at Accor have also launched various travel campaigns which have garnered great response and have given the necessary travel push. Winter is the new summer campaign that is ongoing and offers a 20 per cent saving on stays, dining and spa experiences, and a 30 per cent discount for our ALL members (loyalty).
The hospitality industry has had a facelift in past one year and has witnessed complete metamorphism. Health and safety along with niche experiences top the lists for all customers. Guests need an extra level of assurance, hence communicating the steps taken by the brand is extremely critical and equally important is the consistent execution of all processes.
COVID-19 was one of the biggest catalysts to embrace digitalization. Coupled with the All Safe label, we have also gone contactless in our process, the entire guest journey is mapped and all the touchpoints right from the check- in to ordering of food or other services have been digitalised to reduce touchpoints
India is a hidden jewel and yes there are lots of destinations that the Government can invest in terms of infrastructure, cleanliness, restoration, etc to make our great Country a haven not only for international tourists but also for foreign investments. I think rather than investing in hundreds of crores and making statutes of various famous personals, we should invest that money into modernizing and securing our Country.
Everyone is keen to explore the prospect of travelling and enjoying a leisurely stay, the domestic leisure travel seems to be an emerging trend in the industry. We are witnessing positive outcomes lately and are confident that better things are coming ahead for the industry.
The business sentiment for the hotel is improving with each day and we forecast to have a healthy mix of corporates, crew, MICE, social events, and weddings. Novotel Hyderabad Airport is one of the hotels which offer an expanse of open door and indoor venues which are perfect for gatherings ranging right from 10 to 1500 guests. Also with the luxury of spaces available with us, we are able to exercise social distancing norms to its full potential.