In an exclusive interview with Today’s Traveller, Shabin Sarvotham, Sr. General Manager, Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram, speaks on how success in the evolving hospitality and travel market demands continuous effort and adaptation
TT Bureau: What factors have contributed to the success of Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram?
Shabin Sarvotham: Several factors have contributed to the success of Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram:
- Dedicated Team and Management: A committed team and supportive management play a crucial role, guiding through decision-making, marketing, and follow-up sales, ensuring seamless operations.
- Excellent Service and Product Enhancement: Consistently upgrading services and products to stay in line with current trends has helped meet the high expectations of today’s well-informed travellers.
- Informed and Demanding Travelers: Understanding that modern travellers are knowledgeable and expect the best has driven the resort to maintain high standards and continually innovate.
- Forward-Looking Vision: The ownership and management have a clear vision for the future, continually envisioning new ways to enhance and grow the property, ensuring long-term success.
These elements combined have positioned Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram as a leading destination for travellers.
TT Bureau: Could you describe the journey and milestones of excellence achieved by your hotel?
Shabin Sarvotham: Our hotel has seen remarkable growth and transformation over the past 16 years. We’ve expanded from 72 rooms to 157 rooms, and our revenue has soared from less than 70 million INR to over 1000 million INR.
Our accommodations have evolved from simple Garden and Sea view Chalets to luxurious private pool villas and Bay bungalows. We have also significantly enhanced our event-hosting capabilities. From a small conference hall accommodating 100-150 people, we now have facilities that can host 2000-3000 guests in a single day, including a hall for 1000 people and lawns for 3000 people.
Our amenities have expanded as well. We moved from having just an infinity pool to boasting the longest pool in the country and the second longest in South Asia. Our commitment to the environment is reflected in our green initiatives. We’ve grown from having fewer than 50 coconut trees to over 500, along with numerous other fruit-bearing trees. Sustainability is at the core of our operations, and we strive to practice the best methods to protect our planet, giving both our guests and staff a sense of connection to Mother Earth.
Additionally, we are dedicated to giving back to our community and supporting the environment around us. These milestones are a testament to our continuous pursuit of excellence and our commitment to growth and sustainability.
TT Bureau: What are your views on the current growth and prospects of the market?
Shabin Sarvotham: The market has experienced significant growth cycles, but we anticipate a brief period of sluggishness ahead. Following this, we expect a resurgence, although it may not reach the peaks of 2020 and 2021. Stability will return, and those who consistently provide exceptional experiences and services will thrive. Success in this evolving market demands continuous effort and adaptation.
TT Bureau: What is the one activity that you consider essential to include in your daily routine?
Shabin Sarvotham: Admire Nature and enjoy what is in front of you.
Read more: Today’s Traveller Interviews
