Friday, April 18, 2008
Carlson launches its fourth resort in India
Publication: www.moneycontrol.com, Edition: Internet, Journalist: Bureau
Carlson launches its fourth resort in India

Bureau

Carlson Hotels-Asia Pacific announced the launch of its fourth resort and spa facility in India at Alibaug on Thursday.

Radisson Resort & Spa Alibaug, as it would be called, has been developed by Sahil Group, a Pune-based real estate developer, with an investment of Rs 150 crore.

The facility is spread over 16 acres of land housing 144 luxury rooms, suites and villas. The Carlson group has also tied up with MSpa International-Thailand for a Mandara Spa spread over 20,000 sq feet for the property. It will open on May 15.

According to senior officials, the facility would be approximately 108 km from the Mumbai airport with a driving time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. It would take about 45 minutes by boat from the Gateway of India in Mumbai.

Target traveller

Speaking to newspersons at launch, Mr K.B. Kachru, Executive Director-RHW Hotel Management Services Ltd, Radisson, said, “We are targeting a mix of international corporate travellers, MICE and leisure segments.” However, he declined to give the package rates and said the company would be declaring it in a week’s time

Facilities at the resort include a multi-cuisine restaurant along with resto-bars, a conference venue accommodating up to 200 people, a business centre and a board room, Mr Kachru said.

2,500 rooms here

Carlson Hotels Worldwide currently has 28 operating hotels and resorts in India offering 2,500 rooms. Under its umbrella are brands such as Regent, Radisson, Park Plaza, Country Inns & Suites and Park Inn. Its other three dedicated resort and spa facilities in India are at Kumarakom, Goa and Shimla.

“We will add around 42 hotels in the next three years across the country,” said Mr Nikhil Dhodapkar, Director of Sales and Marketing, South Asia, Carlson Hotels Worldwide. He said that Carlson’s global turnover from its hospitality division is $8 billion coming from 1,000 hotels. “Asia Pacific has 60 hotels of which 28 are in India. India and China remain very strong markets of growth in the region.”