All articles by Raavi Tangirala
Raavi Tangirala
Anthony Bourdain: a life in food
The shocking news of Anthony Bourdain’s death in early June, aged just 61, led to an international outpouring of grief within the hospitality community and among the public at large. Hotel Management International first met the chef, writer and television presenter in 2008, when we found him in characteristically compelling and outspoken form.
Redeeming loyalty points in the luxury segment
Luxury hotel operators have long lagged behind other segments in the industry when it comes to leveraging the full power of a well-integrated membership scheme. However, in an environment of increased competition, and with more information available on guest preferences and habits than ever before, might traditionally reticent attitudes be beginning to change? Neil Gerrard investigates.
How hoteliers should handle online reviews: points of view
Monitoring and managing one’s online reviews and reputation has become one of the most important but time-consuming elements of day-to-day operations. How can hoteliers ensure this still-evolving discipline is performed to the best of their abilities? Abi Millar talks to Mike Gathright, SVP of reservations and customer care at Hilton, and Renu Hanegreefs-Snehi, VP of corporate communications, PR & reputation management at Radisson Hotel Group, to find out.
The odyssey continues: Hôtel Lutetia on the Left Bank of Paris
From its establishment in 1910 to its closure for renovation four years ago, the history of the Hôtel Lutetia has been synonymous with the history of Paris. Now, after extensive restoration and renewal overseen by architect and designer Jean-Michel Wilmotte, the hotel prepares to take back its place in the mythology of the City of Lights. Grace Allen explores the renaissance of an icon of the Left Bank.
Technological concierge: here to help
With digitalisation now upon us, some have predicted the demise of the traditional concierge, even at five-star luxury properties. Instead, the role is embracing new technology to offer guests a more personalised service than ever before, as Ana Brant, director for global guest experience and innovation at Dorchester Collection, and Amado Silveti, concierge manager of Dubai’s Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, tell Ross Davies.
London falling: hotel occupancy rates dip
Though average daily rates and supply are growing, occupancy rates have fallen across London hotels. Hotel Management International’s partners at STR Global go through the figures.
Things to come: IoT and hotel operations
To what extent might the internet of things affect hotel operations, enhancing the guest experience and operational efficiency? Doug Carrillo, VP of sales and marketing at Virgin Hotels, and Guillaume Bazin, VP of digital operations mobile at AccorHotels, talk through the possibilities with Abi Millar.
Back to black: Rezidor’s ‘asset right’ strategy
From 2018, The Rezidor Hotel Group will shift its development strategy from asset light to asset right and focus on rejuvenating mature markets while continuing to accelerate others. Elly Earls meets with chief development officer Elie Younes to find out why.
Into thin air?: European Hotel Investment Conference
At the 29th European Hotel Investment Conference, much of the focus surrounded exactly where we stand in the cycle and how long we can expect the good times to last. Hotel Management International was in attendance to gauge what proved a generally positive response to the question.
Personalised touch: magic formula for success
Hoteliers must maintain a customer-focused approach, as well as sustain infrastructure, profit margins and human resources, while keeping up with the industry trends. In the first of a two-part series, Hans Koch, founder of consultancy Hans E Koch Hospitality Solutions, reveals why a personalised touch in a digital age will keep guests coming back for more.