Promoting accessible tourism can help Nepal drive recovery, boost economy

Investing in disability-friendly infrastructure and services can help hoteliers and entrepreneurs tap the accessible tourism market in Nepal, a growing segment globally, while driving economic growth and accelerating recovery, reveals a new IFC study.

The report -- 'Open to All: A Survey on Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities in Nepal’s Hotels' -- covers 90 starred hotels in major cities. While 95 per cent of the participating hoteliers are aware of accessible tourism as a concept, they have not invested in necessary measures to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities.

With existing facilities limited to ramps and lifts in most hotels, only 17 per cent of the surveyed hotels put up signs to help visually-impaired guests and 74 per cent of the hotels did not have any Braille signage on door plaques and room directories, according to the survey. "Further, only about 9 per cent of the hotels had staff, who were trained in or had basic knowledge of sign language while only 33 per cent of the participating hotels had extra wheelchairs for guests."

The poor numbers were attributed to a range of factors including old structures, remote locations, and fewer guests with disabilities. Many of the surveyed hotels also cited extra cost as a key deterrent to building ramps, purchasing wheelchairs, or providing other accessible infrastructure and services.

"Globally, the concept of accessible or inclusive tourism has gained ground in recent times," IFC country manager for Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan Wendy Werner said, ading that accessibility at tourism destinations is key to responsible and sustainable tourism to ensure everyone can be part of the tourism experience, regardless of physical limitations, disabilities, or age. "Accessible tourism is not only a human right, it also makes business sense."

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), globally, around one billion people are affected by some form of disability. According to disability rights experts in Nepal, as more persons with physical limitations and disabilities travel around the world, a focus on accessible infrastructure in hotels as well as tourism destinations can boost the number of foreign tourists in the country.

"Currently, around 2,000 tourists with disabilities visit Nepal every year," president of the National Federation of the Disabled–Nepal Mitra Lal Sharma said. "But, with improved facilities and conditions that are more disability-friendly, the number could easily go up to over 10,000 tourists a year."

“Although accessible tourism is relatively new in Nepal, we are confident that with adequate support, we can push ourselves to explore and attract this growing segment of tourists to our country,” said president of Hotel Association of Nepal (HAN) Shreejana Rana.

The study also recommends, going forward, the government, the private sector, and deveelopment partners will need to work together to create a conducive environment by incorporating universal accessibility practices into relevant legal and policy provisions, with the involvement of persons with disabilities.

The study was conducted by the Society of Economic Journalists–Nepal, in collaboration with the National Federation of the Disabled–Nepal, with financial and technical assistance from IFC.

Hoteliers to pay staff from Rs 4000 to Rs 10,000 wages

The hotel and hospitality sector staff will get their minimum wages – from Rs 4,000 to Rs 10,000 depending on the grading of hotel – for the lockdown period.
Hotel Association of Nepal (HAN) and three major trade unions – active in tourism and hospitality sector – sealed the deal ending a longstanding row over the workers’ salary for the lockdown period.
Since the government imposed lockdown on March 24, the hotels have been closed. AS the staff have not been working, the hoteliers have been saying that they will get paid some 12 per cent only. But the HAN today confirmed that the agreement – applicable for the period of April 13 to December 31 by considering that the situation caused by the pandemic coronavirus infection will last till 2020 – the staff will get paid from Rs 4,000 to 10,000 per month depending on the grading of the hotels, from star deluxe hotels to non-start hotels.
The staff working in the hotels having 200 plus rooms will get Rs 10,000 per month, whereas the workers of five-star hotels with less than 200 rooms will collect Rs 9,000 per month. Likewise, the staff of four-star hotels with 100 plus rooms would be given Rs 8,455 per month and Rs 8,000 to those workers employed in the four-star hotels with less than 100 rooms. “The staff of three-star hotels and resorts will get Rs 5,000 per month,” according to a press note issued by the HAN that has organised a press meet in Kathmandu today.

OYO elevates Aditya Ghosh to the board

OYO Hotels & Homes – one of the leading global chain of hotels and vacation homes – today announced the elevation and addition of Aditya Ghosh, currently chief executive officer at the India & South Asia for the hotels and homes business, to the company’s board of directors.
Aditya is joining founder and Group chief executive at the OYO Hotels and Homes Ritesh Agarwal. OYO has continuously been investing in further strengthening its corporate governance. The recent appointment of independent director Betsy Atkins on the board, who earlier invested in Yahoo and eBay and now Aditya, who hails with a depth of experience in running successful public companies, will both tremendously benefit the company.
Reflecting on the development founder and Group chief executive at the OYO Hotels and Homes Ritesh Agarwal said that Aditya’s strong business acumen, problem solving capabilities, passion for building an organisation with strong corporate governance and a high performing work culture that thrives on principles of diversity and inclusion, makes him the perfect choice for this larger and more strategic role, at a global level.

Five-star Everest Hotel reopens

The Everest Hotel in Baneshwor reopened, though partially, from today, after four years. The five start property was shuttered after the hotel was damaged due to devastating earthquake on May 12, 2015.
The hotel – that is yet to clear outstanding dues to the government, renew its operating licence and conduct an environmental impact assessment study – though has informed the Department of Tourism to start process to prepare an environmental impact assessment.
According to director general of the department Danduraj Ghimire, the hotel has submitted some documents. “The department is in the process of reviewing them,” he said, adding that the hotel has informed the department that it has started the process to prepare an environmental impact assessment report. “It has also said that currently 35 rooms have been renovated.”
An environmental impact assessment – a procedure performed in order to define the environmental impacts of the project – is mandatory for all new and old hotels with more than 100 beds.
The hotel has also to comply with several operational requirements, including the engineering and design that needs to be approved by Kathmandu Metropolitan City as well, before starting the complete operation.
“Until the hotel fulfills the requirements, its operating licence will not be renewed,” Ghimire said adding that as the hotel has committed to fulfill all the requirements, the department cannot abruptly prevent it from operating. “It has invested millions of rupees to renovate the property.”
The hotel has to come with valid documents to show it is ready for commercial operation to get the operating licence renewed.
On May 26, 2015, the 160-room five-star property was given a ‘red sticker’ by a government inspection team, declaring the building unfit to live in following the powerful aftershock on May 12 that severely damaged three main pillars in the hotel’s lobby.
A red sticker means that the structure has been damaged to the extent that it is dangerous to live.
The government team had also suggested the management to retrofit the building. But considering that the five-star hotel must have adequate safety measures, the hotel pulled its shutter down for retrofitting.

OYO Hotels and Homes launches OYO Lite

OYO Hotels and Homes – India and South Asia's largest chain of hotels, homes and spaces – announced the launch of OYO Lite, a lighter version of the consumer app in Nepal.
The app is also available globally, the company said, adding that the new Lite app incorporates all the functionalities of the OYO app and has been designed to work in low connectivity areas or low networks to enhance the user experience. “With a size of less than 800 KB, OYO Lite app consumes less space while offering an optimised user interaction time and a seamless experience no matter how connected the user is,” reads a press note issued by the company.
With this launch, OYO reiterates its commitment to providing quality living spaces to travelers. “It offers quality and affordable accommodations at the tap of a button with technology by its side,” the press note reads, adding that the launch further reinforces the fact that technology is deeply embedded in OYO’s DNA and plays a key role in solving all areas of guest experience. “At OYO, we are committed to creating multiple touch-points with guests for a seamless, convenient and comfortable experience by leveraging our technology prowess.”
The Lite app is a step forward in that direction and will enable travellers to make last minute travel plans without worrying about network and availability of quality accommodations at the tap of a button, according to chief technology officer of OYO Hotels and Homes, Anil Goel. “With security, quality, location and price being key considerations for a majority of travellers in the budget to mid-scale segment, OYO aims to help create a perfect space in every place by solving for each of the said considerations through a combination of technology and on-ground interventions,” he said, adding that OYO Lite has also been designed as a solution to key problems users face, connectivity and space/storage constraints on phones. “We feel that this product would be ideal for travellers who are remotely connected to the internet as well as those with basic smartphones.”
Over 330+ franchised hotels with 5,500+ exclusive rooms are a part of OYO’s chain in Nepal. Backed by strong local talent and execution, the company has been consistently growing its footprint in the country while reiterating its strong commitment towards adding value to Nepal’s hospitality industry.

OYO appoints Weeky Yolmo to lead OYO Hotels in Nepal

OYO Hotels and Homes – South Asia’s largest, China’s second-largest and the world’s third-largest and fastest-growing chain of leased and franchised hotels, homes and living spaces – has today announced the appointment of Weeky Yolmo as the country head for its business in Nepal.
As the hospitality chain is expanding its presence across Nepal, Weeky’s focus would be on establishing stronger relationships with asset owners, driving deeper engagement among all OYO employees (OYOpreneurs) across Nepal, delivering a high-quality, trusted experience to travellers - a complete 360-degree approach towards making Nepal an important strategic market for OYO as well as helping the country realise the Visit Nepal 2020 vision, claims a press note issued by the company.
Yolmo is a strategic Business Management Specialist with over 11 years of experience. He is a graduate from IIT Delhi and has earned his MBA from IIM Calcutta. He has a proven track record across Foods, Dairy, FMCG, Retail and Agri Commodities and specialises in developing strategies for ensuring sustained business growth which will be a significant addition to OYO’s unique business model and offerings. Weeky’s past tenure includes experience across Devyani Food Industries Ltd (Creambell Dairy), VRS Foods Ltd (Paras Dairy), Olam International Ltd, Bata India Ltd (Retail Operation Management-Footwear) and Reliance Retail (Private Label Food-Staples category).
Coupled with his knowledge on go-to-market and growth hacking strategies, Weeky will help grow the company’s footprint in Nepal while at the same time creating hundreds of additional economic opportunities across the hotel industry, the press note added.
Speaking on the appointment, chief executive - India and South Asia, OYO Hotels and Homes, Aditya Ghosh said that Weeky Yolmo’s taking charge of strengthening OYO’s presence in Nepal is a key market for us in South Asia. “We have aggressive growth plans for the country as we transform its hospitality landscape by delivering superior quality accommodation for guests and higher yields for asset owners while investing in technology and talent.”
Joining the OYO team, country head of OYO Nepal, Weeky Yolmo said that OYO has now created history in both the Indian and global hospitality industry through its innovative business model.
Over 330+ franchised hotels with 5,500+ exclusive rooms are a part of OYO’s chain in Nepal. Backed by strong local talent and execution, the company has been consistently growing its footprint in the country while reiterating its strong commitment towards adding value to Nepal’s hospitality industry.
Yolmo’s past tenure includes experience across Devyani Food Industries Ltd (Creambell Dairy), VRS Foods Ltd (Paras Dairy), Olam International Ltd, Bata India Ltd (Retail Operation Management-Footwear) and Reliance Retail (Private Label Food-Staples category).

International brand Marriott comes to Kathmandu

Kathmandu Marriott Hotel opens in the capital city, marking the debut of the flagship brand in Nepal. Designed to expand the mind of modern travelers, the hotel’s prime location connects next generation travelers to attractions throughout the fascinating cultural city, according to the hotel management.
“We are proud to introduce our flagship brand in the beautiful kingdom of Nepal,” area vice president of South Asia at the Marriott International Neeraj Govil said, adding that Nepal welcomed 1 million tourist arrivals in 2018, reaching a new record to show that this country has great tourism potential. ”The hotel will offer our guests brilliant stays in Kathmandu, stimulating guests with cultural experiences that speak to their inventive nature.”
Nepal offers many UNESCO World Heritage Sites with stunning experiences while guests unwind and recharge in the comfort of sophisticated spaces and the warm hospitality of Marriott, for both business and leisure travelers, he added. “Upon entering the hotel, guests will see thoughtful touches paying tribute to the country including a 500-kg Nepali praying bell hanging from the ceiling while local paintings and crafts adorn the walls.”
Likewise, the patterned carpets mimic the detailed weaving seen in the Dhaka Topi, a brimless cap that is part of the traditional Nepal national dress, according to the hotel, that has the 214 well-appointed rooms reflecting streamlined Marriott Modern design complemented with premium elegance and intuitive technology.
“The Kathmandu Marriott Hotel is thoughtfully designed to ensure a brilliant stay,” said general manager of Kathmandu Marriott Hotel Jean-Louis Ripoche. “We look forward to delivering unparalleled guest experiences backed by comfort and great service through best in class facilities and amenities for both international and local guests,” he said, adding that the hotel’s four distinctive dining venues, offering sumptuous local and international cuisines, promise to raise the bar within the Kathmandu culinary scene.
With over 740 sqm of banquet space, the Kathmandu Marriott Hotel has one of the largest meeting spaces in the city with the latest technology for seamless conferencing and meetings, he added.

Five-star club adds Hotel Central Plaza in Kohalpur

Hotel Central Plaza in Kohalpur, Banke has been awarded a five-star rating, making it a second five-star hotel in Nepalgunj. However, the total number of luxury hotels in the five-star category reached 13 with this new addition. Of the total 13 five-star hotels in the country, the Fulbari Resort and Spa in Pokhara has closed while the Everest Hotel at Baneshwor in Kathmandu has been closed after the devastating earthquake in 2015.
Hotel Central Plaza was awarded the five-star rating on February 26 after completing an evaluation of the hotel, according to the department. Hotel Central Plaza has 80 rooms with 99 beds. According to the new provision, a five-star hotel can be opened outside the Valley with 80 rooms. Earlier, the minimum number of rooms required was 100.
Likewise, Hotel Marriott Kathmandu in Naxal has also applied for the prestigious five-star rating at the Tourism Department. The department is preparing to conduct a field inspection before it will award the Marriott Kathmandu the five-star rating.
Under the Everest Hospitality and Hotel group, the proposed 235-room five-star hotel in Naxal will be managed by Marriott International. a leading hotel chain based in Maryland, US. The Naxal Marriott is the second hotel in Nepal being managed by the international hotel chain management company after the Fairfield by Marriott Kathmandu, Thamel.
We are opening the Marriott Kathmandu in Naxal on April 14, chairman of the Everest Hospitality Group Shashi Kant Agarwal said.
Apart from Marriott, two more five-star hotels – one Chhaya Centre in Thamel and another Hotel Pawan Palace in Lumbini are also being operational by June.
Similarly, the department had awarded the five-star rating to Soaltee Westend Premier in Nepalgunj in February. The Soaltee Westend Premier – formerly Soaltee Sibkrim Hotels and Resorts – in Nepalgunj had initially applied for a four-star rating but – with the new provision – it reapplied for a five-star rating.
In 2017, the Tourism Department had awarded a five-star rating to the Tiger Palace Resort at Kotihawa in Bhairahawa. The 100-room hotel – the first integrated five-star casino resort in South Asia – was developed by Australian-stock market listed Silver Heritage Group.