In the bustling city of Trivandrum, O by Tamara stands as a beacon of luxurious urban hospitality, offering guests a premier getaway experience unlike any other. In an exclusive interview with Shruti Shibulal, CEO & Director of Tamara Leisure Experiences, K. Rohit delve into the unique features and offerings that set O by Tamara Trivandrum apart as a distinguished destination for travelers seeking a blend of comfort, convenience, and indulgence.
1. Can you elaborate on the unique features that make O by Tamara Trivandrum stand out as a premier urban getaway destination?
O by Tamara Trivandrum epitomizes the essence of a premier urban getaway destination through a culmination of distinct features that set it apart from the rest. Its prominence begins with its strategic location, nestled near Trivandrum’s prominent landmarks such as Lulu Mall, Veli Lake Tourist Village, and the majestic Padmanabhaswamy Temple. This advantageous placement ensures that guests have easy access to explore the city’s culture, history, and entertainment without the hassle of long commutes. Adding to its allure are the 148 elegant rooms meticulously designed to prioritize comfort and quality. Each room offers modern amenities and plush furnishings that create an atmosphere of relaxation and indulgence. Whether for corporate clients seeking a peaceful retreat after a day of meetings or leisure groups yearning for a luxurious escape, O by Tamara Trivandrum promises a memorable stay that exceeds expectations.
Moreover, the modern facilities available at O by Tamara Trivandrum further elevate the guest experience. Whether it’s the state-of-the-art fitness center, the wellness spa, or the inviting swimming pool, guests have ample opportunities to relax and rejuvenate during their stay. The hotel’s dining options further enhance its appeal with a diverse range of culinary experiences available to tantalize the taste buds of even the most discerning food enthusiasts.
2. The F&B offerings at O by Tamara Trivandrum seem extensive and diverse. Could you share some insights into the culinary experiences guests can expect at O Café, La Bella Vita, and High Dive?
O Café is an all-day dining space where one can enjoy breakfast buffets bursting with local flavors to gourmet à la carte delights. Scintillating drinks, from fresh juices to crafted cocktails, complement every dish. Accommodating up to 120 guests in a stylish yet relaxed ambience, O Café promises an unforgettable culinary adventure that transcends the ordinary, leaving one craving more.
La Bella Vita offers a haven for dessert lovers, with a delectable selection of sweet treats. From decadent cakes and pastries to artisanal chocolates and gelato, each sweet treat is a masterpiece in its own right, promising a moment of pure bliss with every bite.
Meanwhile, High Dive sets the stage for lively conversations, providing guests with a vibrant atmosphere where they can enjoy sports and drinks with friends. Whether it’s catching up on the latest game over a chilled beer or unwinding after a long day with handcrafted cocktails, High Dive offers the perfect setting for relaxation and socializing.
3. Can you provide details on one of the largest convention center and business center available for meetings and events? How much revenue growth are you expecting from the MICE and Weddings segment in 2024 from the property? If possible, please share a target percent for every segment (FIT, MICE, Honeymooners, etc.)
O by Tamara Trivandrum showcases one of the largest convention center and business center in the region, equipped with modern amenities to cater to various events and meetings. Boasting modern amenities and expansive spaces, these venues seamlessly accommodate both casual gatherings and formal affairs, ranging from weddings and social gatherings to conferences and business meetings. The hotel’s strategic focus on MICE-centric event spaces has garnered significant attention from business travelers, contributing substantially to revenue growth.
In anticipation of 2024, O by Tamara Trivandrum foresees substantial revenue growth from two key segments: Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) and weddings. Leveraging the insights gained from the past year and a half, the hotel aims to optimize revenue across various segments, including FIT (Free Independent Travelers), MICE, honeymooners, and more, aligning closely with its revenue objectives.
Before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, O by Tamara Trivandrum had limited exposure to MICE events. However, with the gradual decline of Covid cases, the hotel has witnessed a remarkable uptick in MICE-related revenue, accounting for approximately 10% of the total revenue. This surge in MICE revenue has underscored the sector’s potential for driving business growth and economic development.
Since its inception in December 2019, O by Tamara Trivandrum has successfully hosted 72 MICE events, ranging from national and international conferences to job fairs and even the prestigious G20 summit. These events not only highlight the hotel’s diverse offerings but also serve as a catalyst for local economic growth. By boosting infrastructure development, creating employment opportunities, and generating revenue for small-scale service providers, the MICE sector plays a pivotal role in uplifting local communities and fostering tourism.
Looking ahead, the future of the MICE sector appears promising, with a strong emphasis on technology-driven innovations and personalized experiences. As Kerala emerges as a frontrunner in tourism, efforts to capitalize on the state’s potential for national and international events will be crucial. Collaboration with associations, organizations, and investors, coupled with improvements in connectivity and infrastructure, will be paramount in attracting and retaining the MICE segment.
4. In what specific ways does O by Tamara Trivandrum implement green initiatives for waste reduction and resource preservation, including the use of eco-friendly toiletries and recycled glass water bottles? Does it affect the overall cost of the hotel? If yes, how do you ensure that the costs are competitive?
O by Tamara Trivandrum is committed to implementing green initiatives for waste reduction and resource preservation, including the use of eco-friendly toiletries and recycled glass water bottles. While such initiatives may impact the overall cost of hotel operation, competitiveness is ensured through optimizing operational efficiencies and sourcing sustainable alternatives at competitive prices, aligning with the hotel’s responsible business practices.
At O by Tamara Trivandrum, sustainability is ingrained in every aspect of its operations, including waste management practices. The hotel ensures that 100% of dry waste is directed to approved recycling centers, minimizing its environmental footprint. Additionally, a stringent no-plastic policy has led to a significant reduction in single-use plastic consumption across the property.
In its culinary endeavors, O by Tamara Trivandrum embraces a Farm-to-Table philosophy, promoting responsible consumption and minimal environmental impact. Organic waste from the kitchens is transformed into nutrient-rich compost, supporting local agriculture and minimizing waste generation.
Water conservation is another priority for O by Tamara Trivandrum, with the hotel implementing robust water management practices. Through in-house Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) facilities, coupled with rainwater harvesting infrastructure, the hotel ensures efficient water usage and preservation of natural water sources.
Furthermore, O by Tamara Trivandrum is committed to mindful energy consumption, integrating renewable energy solutions such as solar power. Several properties, including O by Tamara Trivandrum, have adopted solar power to reduce reliance on conventional energy sources and lower carbon emissions.
While implementing these green initiatives may entail additional costs, O by Tamara Trivandrum remains competitive by optimizing operational efficiencies and sourcing sustainable alternatives at competitive prices. By prioritizing sustainability without compromising on quality or guest experience, O by Tamara Trivandrum sets a commendable standard for environmentally-conscious hospitality practices in the industry.
5. With the recent opening of O by Tamara Coimbatore, how does this expansion align with the overarching vision and mission of Tamara Leisure Experiences Pvt Ltd, and what can guests expect from this new property in terms of offerings and experiences?
The recent opening of O by Tamara Coimbatore aligns with the overarching vision and mission of Tamara Leisure Experiences Pvt Ltd to become a world-class institution built on responsible and memorable hospitality. Guests can expect similar standards of excellence and a range of offerings and experiences tailored to the unique characteristics of Coimbatore, further solidifying the brand’s position as a leading hospitality provider.
6. Finally, could you provide any statistical insights or key performance indicators that demonstrate the success and growth of O by Tamara Trivandrum, such as occupancy rates, guest satisfaction scores, or revenue growth?
With an 85% occupancy rate, O by Tamara Trivandrum is a top pick for travelers. This highlights a steady demand for its offerings and showcases the hotel’s prowess in attracting and retaining guests. The guest satisfaction rating of 4.9 out of 5 is sufficient to comprehend how guests here are enjoying positive experiences. This rating mirrors the dedication and hard work in delivering the best services to fulfill guests’ expectations. Compared to last year, a 15% increase in room revenue growth is a noteworthy achievement. This demonstrates the hotel’s capability to attract guests and indicates a strong financial performance and growth.