BACK TO BUSINESS UNUSUAL

While occupancy rates took a tumble during the pandemic, it opened avenues for non-room revenues like destination weddings, staycations, gym memberships, virtual dinners, etc

- VINITA BHATIA

Much has been said about the new normal, but its characteristics keep metamorphosing. Many hoteliers are still adapting to this novel reality on personal and professional levels.

Several are trying to jumpstart stalled hospitality projects. Others are doing their best to reassure guests and associates that the hygiene practices adopted by their properties will keep them safe from COVID-19 infection. But more than that, they are banking on a positive fallout of the ongoing vaccination drive.

Ravi Rai, Cluster General Manager of Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, Novotel Vijayawada Varun and The Bheemili Resort Managed by Accor is one of them. He is confident that the immunisation programme will herald business normalcy and help the hospitality industry limp back to pre-COVID occupancy levels by Q3 of 2021. He is also buoyant that when restrictions on corporate travel movements and international flights are lifted, the travel and tourism business will witness a huge demand.

“Currently, there is a lot of apprehension and uncertainty about the vaccine; people are worried about its side effects,” he pointed out. “However, we are observing pent up demand as the public wants to step out. We are witnessing a positive growth in the leisure destinations compared to the business hubs post the lockdown phase.” He opined this will grow depending on the en masse result of the vaccination.

TIMES, THEY ARE A CHANGING

While holding out that business will revive gradually, it is evident that the growth percentage will vary from region to region. Leisure destinations are likely to recover faster, and in fact, some are already recording good business.