The brand’s debut property is the transformed The Dukes Retreat in Khandala, now Athiva Resort & Spa, Khandala, featuring 147 rooms, including 11 suites. Moreover, the resort emphasizes refined luxury, authentic local experiences, and responsible practices, thereby establishing itself as a premium lifestyle sanctuary.

In addition to this launch, Chalet Hotels plans to transition five more properties to the Athiva brand. This includes a renovated business hotel in Navi Mumbai, The Resort at Aksa Beach (a K Raheja Corp Group Hotel), and three greenfield developments—two in Goa and one in Thiruvananthapuram.

With over 900 keys at launch and plans to double capacity within three years, Athiva represents a strategic expansion in lifestyle hospitality in India, leveraging Chalet Hotels’ brand strength while offering an experience-first vision for modern travel.

“With Athiva, we bring the trust, credibility, and operational excellence of Chalet Hotels to a brand built for today’s India—welcoming business, leisure, bleisure, and MICE guests with one consistent promise: abundant joy, wellness and care,” said Dr Sanjay Sethi, MD & CEO of Chalet Hotels Ltd. “Starting with our first Athiva Resort & Spa, Khandala, we will scale with discipline and heart – delivering experiences that are joyful, wellness-first and sustainably curated,” he added.

Athiva Hotels & Resorts, crafted for the millennial and Gen Z traveler, introduces distinctive features that significantly elevate the guest experience. For instance, Breakfast@Anytime offers flexibility beyond fixed dining hours; additionally, Binge Box provides a wholesome complimentary snack alternative to calorie-heavy minibars; furthermore, Dollops of Joy delivers surprise treats thoughtfully integrated throughout the stay; and finally, Local Immersions enables guests to experience authentic cultural connections.

Sustainability and wellness are at the heart of the Athiva philosophy. In addition, each property incorporates energy-efficient designs, waste-conscious operations, local sourcing, and meaningful community partnerships. Furthermore, built on Chalet Hotels’ Parivartan initiative, Athiva actively promotes a circular, inclusive, and regenerative hospitality model, thereby harmonizing environmental stewardship with social equity and economic growth.

The launch signals a new era in Indian hospitality, catering to young travelers driven by rising incomes and a desire for authentic, shareable experiences. Athiva is designed to meet this demand by emphasizing connection, creativity, and care over traditional service models. More than a hotel brand, Athiva represents a movement towards abundant, joyful, and sustainable hospitality for both India and the global traveler.

“Hyderabad is a city where history, architecture, cuisine, and culture come together beautifully. It reflects the very ethos we want to bring to India—escapes that are authentic, design-driven, and emotionally resonant,” said Salil Panigrahi, Co-Founder and Group Managing Director of Atmosphere Core.

The expansion embodies Panigrahi’s philosophy that hospitality is a soulful craft, combining design innovation, sustainability, and cultural immersion. Atmosphere Core will design each of its properties in India as a distinctive expression of its locale, blending heritage, aesthetics, and modern functionality.

Moreover, guests can look forward to Maldives-inspired all-inclusive offerings, including wellness retreats, culinary experiences, and curated cultural activities. At the same time, sustainability will remain a core focus, with eco-sensitive architecture, renewable energy integration, and waste reduction initiatives incorporated into every project.

For Atmosphere Core, the Hyderabad launch represents more than just market expansion—it marks the start of a cultural movement in Indian hospitality. By establishing Hyderabad as a showcase city, Panigrahi is setting the stage for Atmosphere Core’s broader vision: creating leisure destinations across India that resonate with the country’s evolving aspirations in travel, design, and sustainability.

The India International Travel Mart (IITM) successfully concluded its Chennai and Bangalore editions, held in July 2025, reaffirming its position as India’s premier travel and tourism networking platform. The event brought together an eclectic mix of national and international stakeholders from across the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors.

The Chennai edition, held from 16–18 July 2025, and the Bangalore edition, from 24–26 July 2025, drew an overwhelming response from travel trade professionals, tourism boards, DMCs, hotel chains, airlines, travel startups, and digital platforms. With participation from over 25 Indian states, 20 international destinations, and more than 800 exhibitors, the exhibitions served as a dynamic platform for meaningful B2B engagements and destination promotion.

IITM Chennai was inaugurated by Thiru T. Christuraj , Director of Tourism, Govt. of Tamil Nadu. The guests of honour includedSri. Mr. Venkatesan D, Regional Director, India Tourism, Smt. T Devaki, Chairperson, Travel Agents Assc. of India; Sri. Kamaleshwaran, President, SKAL International, Chennai, Sri Pankaj Ravish, General Manager, IRCTC; Sri Pawan Kumar Gupta, Vice President, SIMA, Sri Ashok Kumar P, Chairman, ADTOI;

IITM Bangalore was inaugurated by Shri. Pasang Dorjee Sona, Honourable Minister for Tourism, Education, Rural Works, Parliamentary Affairs and Libraries, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh.

The Guests of Honor at the inauguration included Sri. Neelu Sharma, Honorable Chairman, Chhattisgarh Tourism, Govt. of Chhattisgarh Sri. RanphoaNgowa, IFS, Secretary Tourism, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, Sri. Vivek Acharya, IFS, Managing Director, Chhattisgarh Tourism, Govt. of Chhattisgarh, Mr. Hishamuddin Mustafa, Director, Tourism Malaysia Chennai (South India & Sri Lanka), Sri Biswajit Routray, OTS, Additional Director, Odisha Tourism; Sri Dinesh Kumar, Joint Director, UP Tourism, Sri. Lokesh Bettaiah, Vice President, Travel Agents Association of India; Sri. Niranjan Bhargava, Chairman, Travel Agents Association of India, Mr. M Vinod, President, Andaman Association of Tour Operators, Mr. Kaulesh Kumar, General Secretary, Association of Buddhist Tour Operators, Mr. Amish Desai, MC Member, TAAI.

Speaking on the successful completion of both editions, Mr. Sanjay Hakhu, Director, Sphere Travelmedia & Exhibitions, said: “This year’s editions of IITM in Chennai and Bangalore have exceeded expectations in terms of participation, partnerships, and buyer engagement. The interest from both the domestic and international tourism communities is a testament to India’s growing outbound and domestic travel potential. We are proud to be at the forefront of this resurgence and will continue to provide a robust platform for trade and tourism promotion across emerging and established markets.”

Mr. Rohit Hangal, Director, Sphere Travelmedia & Exhibitions, added:“We are delighted with the industry’s response to IITM Chennai and Bangalore. These cities continue to be vital markets in South India’s tourism map. The enthusiasm of participants and the quality of trade interactions reaffirm IITM’s growing relevance and impact in the B2B space. As India surges forward in both domestic and outbound travel, IITM remains committed to being the key catalyst in this transformative journey.”

Why India International Travel Mart?

India International Travel Mart (IITM) stands as one of India’s longest-running and most trusted travel trade shows. With over two decades of legacy, IITM has continually evolved to meet the dynamic needs of the tourism sector, offering a unique blend of business networking, knowledge exchange, and trade engagement.

Here is what makes it stand out:

• Proven Legacy: IITM has successfully hosted over 100+ editions across major Indian cities, connecting the tourism industry with quality buyers and travel enthusiasts.

• South India’s Flagship Travel Events: The Chennai and Bangalore editions are the largest in the region, drawing massive footfalls, trade participation, and media attention.

• B2B Focus: IITM bridges the gap between destinations, B2B Destination Management Companies, hospitality products, and travel, making it the ideal launchpad for new destinations, travel products, and services.

The exhibitions featured dedicated pavilions for domestic destinations, international tourism boards, luxury travel, experiential tourism, travel technology, and sustainable travel solutions—providing unmatched opportunities for networking and collaboration.

With renewed optimism and strong industry backing, the India International Travel Mart continues its mission to connect, collaborate, and catalyze tourism growth. The next editions are scheduled to take place in IITM Delhi: 24 – 26 September 2025

IITM Mumbai: 9 – 11 October 2025; IITM Pune: 27 – 29 November 2025; IITM Hyderabad: 4 – 6 December 2025; IITM Kochi: 8 – 10 January 2026; IITM Kolkata: 12 – 14 February 2026 and IITM Ahmedabad: 12 – 14 March 2026 promising even greater opportunities for travel businesses across the country.

At IITM, B2B is not just business—it’s a strategic advantage!

For more details:

Contact: +91 8040834100

Email: media@spheretravelmedia.com

Currently, GHA stands as the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, encompassing 45 brands and 850 hotels across 100 countries. Furthermore, its award-winning loyalty programme, GHA DISCOVERY, provides members with unparalleled access to premium hospitality experiences.

Beginning in July 2025, S Hotel & Resorts will roll out SAii DISCOVERY, its own loyalty programme integrated within the global GHA DISCOVERY platform. Guests at properties such as SAii Laguna Phuket, SAii Phi Phi Island Village, SAii Koh Samui Villas, and Santiburi Koh Samui will gain access to exclusive benefits, rewards, and personalised experiences from day one. These perks include instant savings, complimentary room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out, and unique local experiences that immerse travellers in the culture of each destination.

SAii Laguna Phuket, SAii Phi Phi Island Village, and Santiburi Koh Samui are proud members of GHA’s Green Collection—a group of hotels and resorts dedicated to reducing environmental impact and safeguarding the ecosystems they call home. Furthermore, these properties align closely with S Hotels & Resorts’ sustainable development strategy, actively supporting responsible tourism, implementing conservation initiatives, and driving community-focused programs. As a result, they create meaningful positive impacts across every destination in which they operate.

“Our partnership with Global Hotel Alliance and our inclusion in GHA DISCOVERY, with its over 30 million loyal members, opens up exceptional opportunities for SHR. From increased direct bookings and revenue to data-driven insights into guest preferences, the team is gaining invaluable advantages while benefiting from GHA’s powerful marketing and CRM initiatives. GHA DISCOVERY drives loyalty beyond traditional boundaries, connecting properties to a global network of like-minded independent hotels and iconic brands.” said Michael Marshall, the CEO of S Hotels & Resorts.

He continued, “For our valued guests, the partnership offers exclusive member rates, early check-in, late check-out, and complimentary room upgrades. With DISCOVERY Dollars (D$), they can earn and spend rewards on their next stay, including rooms, experiences, dining, and wellness at their convenience, choosing from 850 hotels in 100 countries—all under one seamless loyalty umbrella. The GHA DISCOVERY app further enhances ease and convenience in managing travel experiences.”

“We are thrilled to welcome S Hotel & Resorts to Global Hotel Alliance. The stunning SAii and Santiburi properties, located in some of Thailand’s most sought-after destinations, are a perfect complement to our alliance. We’re excited to connect these unique resorts with our 30 million GHA DISCOVERY members who value authentic, responsible travel experiences. This partnership not only enriches our global collection but also reflects our shared commitment to sustainability and culturally immersive hospitality,” said Chris Hartley, CEO of Global Hotel Alliance.

The partnership between S Hotels & Resorts and Global Hotel Alliance represents a significant milestone in enhancing guest experiences and expanding global reach. Moreover, by introducing SAii DISCOVERY within the GHA DISCOVERY programme, S Hotels & Resorts aims to deliver unparalleled benefits, personalized services, and authentic local experiences to its guests.

Renowned for its immersive glamping retreats and cultural tent cities, the company now plans to broaden its footprint in the hospitality sector. To achieve this, it will add a diverse range of experiential properties to its portfolio, further enhancing its offerings and appeal to a wider audience. It is also opening doors to partnerships through asset lease and management collaborations.

With iconic destinations such as Rann Utsav – The Tent City, Statue of Unity Tent City-1, Gandhisagar Forest Retreat, the newly launched Evoke Dholavira, and the upcoming Evoke Ram Bagh in Ayodhya featuring 156 keys, Evoke Experiences has, over time, built a strong reputation for delivering destination-driven stays. Notably, these experiences seamlessly blend luxury with culture, nature, and sustainability, the company stated.

The brand currently manages a total of 750 keys and is aiming to surpass the 1,000-key mark by the end of 2025.

Evoke Experiences is gearing up to launch a new property in Gir, further reinforcing its presence in ecologically rich regions. According to the release, this new site highlights the company’s increasing focus on permanent experiential resorts, marking a shift from seasonal operations to year-round offerings.

In a notable development, Evoke Experiences has extended an invitation to hospitality asset owners and landholders across India to collaborate through long-term lease or management agreements. Leveraging its proven strengths in branding, operations, and storytelling-driven design, the company further aims to transform underutilized or lesser-known destinations into profitable, world-class experiential stays.

“We believe the next wave of hospitality growth in India lies beyond convention. Evoke is not just creating places to stay, we’re building narratives, environments, and economies rooted in local culture. We are now actively looking to collaborate with like-minded owners who see the potential of experiential tourism,” said Bhavik Sheth, chief operating officer of Evoke Experiences.

Evoke Experiences is entering a transformative phase, expanding its footprint with a focus on permanent, year-round experiential resorts.

Located just minutes from the serene Benaulim beach in South Goa, the all-suite, eco-friendly property offers guests a stay centered on meaningful connections and effortless indulgence, according to the company’s announcement.

Vishal Kamat, director of Kamat Hotels India Ltd., said, “In a world that moves too fast, we wanted to create a space that gently invites you to slow down, not just in pace but in spirit. The Orchid Passaros is not about escaping life, it is about returning to it with greater presence and clarity. Every corner speaks the language of calm, and every detail is thoughtfully placed to remind you that true luxury lies in being fully present. At Passaros, nature, art and luxury come together in quiet harmony to offer something truly rare, not just a stay but a soulful pause.”

The Orchid Passaros – Goa features 58 thoughtfully designed rooms that embody a calm, sophisticated ambiance. Each suite serves as a tribute to Goa’s natural beauty, combining handcrafted décor, rainforest-inspired tones, and modern finishes. Warm wood accents, curated murals, and rich textures give the interiors a unique, understated luxury. Select suites open into private gardens with cozy lounge pods, while others boast rooftop sanctuaries with stargazing ceilings. From terrace jacuzzis to serene reading nooks, every space is crafted to encourage relaxation and a deeper sense of presence.

The dining experience at The Orchid Passaros – Goa is just as thoughtfully curated as its accommodations. The resort’s signature restaurant and bar, Tipsy Sparrow, stays open late into the night, offering an inviting setting for leisurely meals, heartfelt conversations, and relaxed late-night drinks. It serves as a vibrant yet cozy space where guests can unwind and savor the moment at their own pace.

Beyond its elegantly designed suites, The Orchid Passaros – Goa offers a range of immersive experiences tailored for couples. Splash, the resort’s pool and bar, provides a laid-back setting for refreshing swims and handcrafted cocktails. For deeper relaxation, the Feather Touch Couple Spa offers calming therapies in a serene atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Pebble Walk winds through peaceful, landscaped paths—perfect for quiet strolls and spontaneous, meaningful conversations amidst nature.

The upcoming resort aims to elevate the region’s hospitality landscape and will feature a range of upscale amenities, including three dining outlets, a banquet hall, an AvaniSpa, a swimming pool, a beach bar, an AvaniFit gym, and a nine-hole golf course.

The resort is strategically positioned on a 25.5-acre site near the upcoming Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, which is expected to be completed by 2026, significantly enhancing regional connectivity. This part of Visakhapatnam is rapidly emerging as a hub for commercial development, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) activity, and leisure tourism, making it an increasingly appealing destination for both business and holiday travelers.

Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels commented, “We are pleased to announce the launch of this significant new project in Visakhapatnam. The Avani brand will offer an exceptional blend of contemporary design, upbeat service and elevated experiences for both hotel guests and residents alike. We look forward to bringing our expertise in delivering premium hospitality to this dynamic market.”

The resort is being developed by Sunray Green Space Pvt Ltd, under the leadership of IA Raja Varma, a prominent advocate for sustainable tourism in the region. This launch forms a key part of Minor Hotels’ larger growth strategy in India, which includes plans to open 50 new properties over the next ten years, reinforcing its commitment to expanding its footprint in the country’s hospitality sector.

Kaia’s first property will open in late 2025 on Thailand’s Koh Phangan. Developed by Thailand-based hospitality company Bound and Beyond in collaboration with sustainable design experts Cloud Collective, the location resort will be near a national park and accessible via a 30-minute speedboat ride from Koh Samui.

Kaia’s debut resort on Koh Phangan will embrace sustainable design and materials, including upcycled teak and recycled plastic rugs. The property will offer 31 private tented suites, each 77m² in size, featuring ocean views, outdoor decks, bathtubs, and pantries stocked with locally sourced and resort-made products. Additionally, guests can opt for one of four expansive two-bedroom villas, each 248m² and equipped with a private pool.

At the heart of the resort, the clubhouse will house multiple dining spaces, an infinity pool, and a vibrant beach club. Guests will enjoy immersive experiences such as open-fire cooking, forest foraging, ceramic workshops, and squid safaris. Wellness offerings include yoga, ice baths, and guided nature walks.

Kaia is built around authentic cultural immersion and social impact. The brand is committed to employing local staff, sourcing regional produce, and nurturing community talent. Inspired by the Thai Jao Baan philosophy, Kaia’s hospitality centers on warm, familial connections, where team members treat guests like part of the community.

Every resort under the Kaia brand will reflect local culture through rotating culinary, cultural, and wellness experiences. Sustainability is a core value, with natural materials, passive cooling techniques, and eco-friendly practices embedded in every aspect. All Kaia resorts are plastic-free and use biodegradable packaging.

Culinary programs evolve with the seasons, highlighting ethically sourced, local ingredients and a closed-loop food system. The Koh Phangan resort will include its organic farm and collaborate with ethical producers in the region.

Following the Koh Phangan opening in late 2025, Kaia plans to expand internationally, with new resort locations expected to be announced later this year.

Beverly Chen, co-founder and COO of Cloud Collective and co-founder of Kaia, commented: “With Kaia, we are redefining luxury by seamlessly blending immersive outdoor hospitality with a deep reverence for nature and local culture. Kaia (offers) a sanctuary where luxury, sustainability, and cultural authenticity converge.”

“As travelers seek more meaningful experiences, we create a hospitality model deeply rooted in local traditions, craftsmanship, and community. At Bound and Beyond, we believe that true luxury is not just about indulgence – it’s about honoring the spirit of a place and the people who shape it. Through Kaia, we are crafting resorts where guests can immerse themselves in the richness of local heritage while embracing a lighter, more conscious way of traveling,” added Kamonwan Wipulakorn, managing director of Bound and Beyond, co-founder of Kaia.

In an exclusive conversation with Business Review Live, Siddharth shares invaluable lessons from his journey—how aggressive expansion shapes market strategy, why asset-light models are the future, and how sustainability is now a business imperative. His insights reflect a forward-thinking approach, balancing technology, design, and local authenticity to create hospitality brands that are both profitable and meaningful.  

1. You’ve played a pivotal role in scaling global hospitality brands and now lead The BOH Labs. What inspired you to start this venture, and how does it redefine hospitality consulting?

The BOH Labs is a design-driven hospitality lab transforming the future of lifestyle hotels in India. We go beyond traditional hospitality by blending innovative design, market insights, and community-driven experiences to create spaces that truly connect with modern travelers.

Our approach centers on human-centric design. Hotels should be more than just a place to stay—they should be vibrant social hubs that foster connection and belonging. By combining market research and creative design thinking, we identify emerging trends and evolving guest expectations to craft unique, experience-driven spaces.

A key differentiator is our focus on community and social interactions. We design hotels that encourage collaboration and cultural immersion, whether through curated events, locally inspired F&B concepts, or versatile co-working spaces that double as social lounges.

In a recent project, we transformed a conventional hotel into a dynamic lifestyle destination. We introduced flexible public spaces, art installations by local artists, and a curated lineup of community events, turning the property into a cultural hotspot and enhancing guest engagement.

2. The BOH Labs integrates human-centric design with business strategy. Can you share an example where design thinking led to a transformative guest experience?

At The BOH Labs, we believe human-centric design is key to creating unforgettable guest experiences. A standout example is our transformation of a mid-scale hotel lobby—once an underutilized space—into a dynamic social hub that boosted guest engagement and revenue.

The lobby was purely transactional, used only for check-ins and check-outs. We saw an opportunity to reimagine it as a multi-functional space where guests could work, relax, and socialize—all while enhancing the hotel’s revenue potential.

At The BOH Labs, design thinking drives every project. By studying guest behavior through surveys and observations, we found that millennials and business travelers wanted spaces for work, socializing, and relaxation. This insight shaped our vision of a hotel lobby as a welcoming, multi-functional space—a “living room away from home.”  

To bring this concept to life, we created a flexible layout with cozy nooks for privacy, communal tables for collaboration, and lounge areas for relaxation. A locally sourced coffee bar attracted both guests and locals, while art installations reflected the city’s heritage, enhancing the space’s cultural appeal. Smart technology, including wireless charging stations and digital concierge screens, added convenience and efficiency.  

The impact was immediate. Guests spent more time in the lobby, F&B revenue rose by 25%, and guest satisfaction scores soared. Many even called it the highlight of their stay. This project highlights how thoughtful design transforms overlooked spaces into thriving, experience-driven destinations. At The BOH Labs, we craft spaces that elevate guest experiences while driving business success.

3. Your experience with Wyndham and Bloom Hotels involved aggressive expansion. What are the biggest challenges in market entry, and how do you identify high-potential locations?

Expanding with Wyndham and Bloom Hotels was a crash course in rapid growth, teaching me the art of strategic market entry and identifying high-potential locations. While scaling aggressively is tempting, sustainable success comes from meticulous planning and a deep understanding of local dynamics.

Every market presents unique cultural, regulatory, and competitive challenges. Overlooking these factors can lead to operational inefficiencies and misaligned strategies. Speed must be balanced with sustainability—each new property should reflect the brand’s identity while delivering a consistent guest experience.

Our approach to identifying prime locations is data-driven. We analyze tourism trends, infrastructure development, and economic indicators to pinpoint emerging destinations. Understanding traveler preferences and market gaps helps tailor offerings to demand. Collaborating with local developers and tourism boards builds trust and strengthens market positioning. Feasibility studies ensure investments are financially sound, assessing land costs, construction expenses, and projected returns.

One successful expansion strategy involved targeting tier-2 cities in India, where corporate hubs were growing but lacked branded hospitality options. This move allowed us to tap into unmet demand and establish a strong presence. Market entry isn’t just about choosing a location—it’s about finding the right fit for long-term success. By blending data-driven insights with local expertise, we craft expansion strategies that are both scalable and sustainable.

4. With hospitality shifting towards franchising and management contracts, how do you see asset-light models evolving in the post-pandemic era?

The hospitality industry’s shift towards asset-light models—including franchising and management contracts—has accelerated post-pandemic. These models offer scalability with lower risk, but their success depends on adaptability.

Here’s how asset-light models are evolving to meet new challenges and opportunities:

1. Flexible Contracts for Market Resilience
Hotels need adaptable agreements. Hybrid revenue-sharing models with variable terms based on market conditions will allow owners and operators to share risks and rewards more equitably.

2. Brand Differentiation as a Competitive Edge
With more players adopting asset-light strategies, standing out is crucial. Expect a strong focus on unique design, localized experiences, and robust loyalty programs to build brand equity.

3. Tech-Driven Operational Efficiency
Technology is revolutionizing asset-light models. From AI-powered property management systems to guest engagement platforms, digital transformation will enhance efficiency, guest satisfaction, and real-time decision-making.

4. Sustainability as a Core Business Strategy
The eco-conscious traveler is shaping the industry. Asset-light operators must embed sustainability in their models, from energy-efficient designs to waste reduction initiatives, aligning with both regulations and guest expectations.

5. Expansion into Tier-2 & Tier-3 Markets
With major cities becoming saturated, smaller but high-growth markets offer untapped potential. Success will depend on localized strategies that cater to regional preferences and economic conditions.

6. Strengthening Owner-Brand Partnerships
Collaboration is key. Transparent communication, aligned objectives, and long-term trust-building will define successful asset-light partnerships in the evolving hospitality landscape.

7. Crisis Management & Business Resilience
The pandemic highlighted the need for robust contingency planning. Operators will need flexible staffing models, dynamic pricing strategies, and enhanced health & safety protocols to navigate future disruptions.

The next phase of asset-light expansion will be driven by flexibility, innovation, and sustainability. At The BOH Labs, we help brands adapt by integrating design thinking, data-driven insights, and strategic partnerships into their growth strategies.

5. Your time at FabHotels was a “crash course” in high-speed hospitality growth. What key lessons from that experience shaped your approach to scaling brands today?

My time at FabHotels was truly a crash course in rapid scaling, and I owe a great deal to my founders, Vaibhav and Adarsh, as well as my incredible colleagues. Their vision and dedication helped shape my deep passion for hospitality.

One of the biggest lessons I took away was the importance of building a strong operational foundation while staying agile. We learned to prioritize customer feedback, iterate quickly, and maintain a lean yet highly effective team structure.

These principles continue to guide us at The BOH Labs, where we focus on scalability without compromising on quality or guest experience—ensuring that every innovation we implement delivers real value to both guests and operators.

6. With evolving consumer behaviors and digital disruptions, how should hotels adapt their guest experience models to stay competitive?

To stay competitive in an era of evolving consumer behaviors and digital disruption, hotels must reimagine guest experiences by blending innovation with authenticity.

Personalization – Leverage AI and data to curate tailored experiences, from room amenities to local recommendations.
Seamless Technology – Invest in contactless check-ins, mobile keys, and integrated platforms for a frictionless stay.
The Human Touch – Balance automation with warmth—chatbots for efficiency, staff for meaningful interactions.
Engaging Social Spaces – Design coworking lounges and communal areas that encourage connection.
Sustainability Matters – Reduce plastics, source locally, and embrace eco-friendly practices to attract conscious travelers.
Authentic Local Experiences – Partner with artisans and chefs to create immersive cultural offerings.
Agility & Adaptability – Design flexible spaces and services that cater to evolving guest needs, such as hybrid events.
Loyalty 2.0 – Move beyond points—reward guests with exclusive events, unique perks, and hyper-personalized services.
Wellness-Centric Stays – Offer in-room fitness kits, nutritious dining, and wellness collaborations for holistic well-being.
Real-Time Feedback Loop – Use guest insights from surveys and social listening to refine and elevate experiences continuously.

At The BOH Labs, we help hotels merge innovation with human-centric design, ensuring that every touchpoint reflects the brand’s values while exceeding modern traveler expectations.

7. As the industry moves towards more sustainable practices, how can design and operational strategies align profitability with eco-conscious hospitality?

At The BOH Labs, we make sustainability a strategic advantage, blending eco-conscious practices with profitability. We design energy-efficient spaces with solar panels, green walls, and natural lighting to reduce environmental impact. Water-saving systems like rainwater harvesting and low-flow fixtures ensure resource conservation.

Smart operations help cut costs and emissions—bulk toiletries, recycling programs, and local sourcing minimize waste. Smart energy systems and LEED certifications boost brand credibility while attracting eco-conscious travelers.

Sustainability also drives profitability. Energy efficiency and waste reduction lower expenses, while eco-driven experiences appeal to the growing segment of responsible travelers. 

We engage guests by offering rewards for sustainable actions and partnering with local communities on green initiatives. By embedding sustainability into design, operations, and guest experiences, hotels can thrive while reducing their environmental footprint—a true win-win.

8. The BOH Labs combines data-driven insights with experiential design. How do you strike the right balance between analytics and intuition in decision-making?

At The BOH Labs, we harmonize data-driven insights with human-centric creativity, ensuring every decision is both strategic and emotionally resonant. Data helps us track trends, predict guest behavior, and measure impact. Intuition guides us in crafting immersive, culturally rich experiences that go beyond numbers.

For instance, data may reveal that guests prefer communal spaces, but intuition transforms a standard lobby into a vibrant social hub, enriched with local art, cozy seating, and sensory elements that evoke warmth and connection.

We test, refine, and adapt—using data to optimize and intuition to infuse authenticity. This synergy ensures our designs are innovative yet deeply human, creating experiences that resonate with guests and drive business success.

9. Looking back at your career, which hospitality project has been the most fulfilling, and what made it a game-changer?

Looking back, one of the most fulfilling milestones in my career was the conversion of a 109-key hotel in Kathmandu, Nepal—a project that went far beyond rebranding. It was a complete reimagination of the guest experience, blending local culture, traditional design, and global hospitality standards.

Holistic Transformation: We didn’t just change the name; we revitalized interiors, trained staff, and repositioned the hotel to embody Kathmandu’s rich heritage. Every detail—from architecture to service philosophy—was meticulously curated to create a distinctive identity.

Impactful Results: The transformation was more than aesthetic; it redefined guest engagement, strengthened community ties, and elevated the hotel’s market position.

This experience reinforced my belief in the power of thoughtful design, strategic branding, and authentic storytelling—key elements that shape truly unforgettable hospitality experiences.

Dusit Princess Moena will be a centrepiece of the sustainability-focused Moena Mountain Estate, a mixed-use development set amidst the lush, forested mountains of Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, near the Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park. 

The hotel will feature a variety of premium amenities, including a lobby lounge, business centre, all-day dining restaurant, outdoor pool, fully equipped gym, yoga room, and versatile multipurpose space.

Located in Dahilayan, often called the ‘Baguio of Mindanao,’ the area is already a favourite among nature lovers for its breathtaking mountain views, cool climate, and outdoor activities. With its modern accommodations and comprehensive services, Dusit Princess Moena will elevate the destination’s appeal, complementing existing attractions such as Dahilayan Adventure Park and the sprawling Del Monte Pineapple plantations.

Further north, Dusit Princess Firenze plans to open in late 2029 as a key feature of IDC’s Firenze Green Tower project in the Limketkai area of Cagayan de Oro, strategically located near the city’s commercial and business hubs.

Capitalizing on Cagayan de Oro’s title as the “Adventure Capital of the Philippines” and its rapidly expanding business and leisure markets, this 14-story mixed-use green development will seamlessly integrate commercial, residential, and hotel spaces. Dusit will manage 180 rooms on the tower’s upper floors, offering guests stunning views along with Dusit’s renowned high service standards.

The project will offer unparalleled convenience, unforgettable experiences, and outstanding value, featuring premium amenities like a gym, spa, multipurpose spaces, commercial areas, and a swimming pool, all serving guests and residents.

“We are delighted and honoured to collaborate with IDC Prime to further expand our presence in the Philippines through these remarkable projects,” said Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “The Philippines’ dynamic economic growth and thriving tourism sector offer unparalleled opportunities for innovation and advancement. With IDC Prime’s shared commitment to sustainability and positive impact, we are excited to bring our distinctive Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to these vibrant Mindanao destinations, delivering meaningful and memorable guest experiences while creating lasting value for the broader community.”

The Firenze Green Tower and Moena Mountain Estate are real estate joint ventures between IDC, the property developer, and the Go family, the original landowners. Integrating hotel components into these projects aims to enhance their overall appeal and establish Dusit Princess Moena and Dusit Princess Firenze as standalone destinations.

“IDC was founded on our belief in the Philippines’ growth story, particularly in areas such as these, which are full of potential for transformative development,” said Arch. Romolo Nati, CEO and Chairman, IDC Prime. “Our projects are recognized for their sustainability and architectural innovation, consistently delivering a ‘level-up’ in elegance and quality. Partnering with Dusit to bring world-class hotels to Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon is a natural extension of this vision, and we look forward to welcoming these exceptional properties to our portfolio.”

Dusit’s portfolio now spans 302 properties across 19 countries, including 58 under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and 244 luxury villas managed by Elite Havens, Asia’s top provider of luxury villa rentals. In the Philippines, Dusit currently operates several properties, including Dusit Thani Manila, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort, Dusit Thani Residence Davao, dusitD2 Davao, and Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort.