Applied to:
This award recognizes the most outstanding individual or loyalty programme guest experience in the hospitality sector that has created unforgettable memories. The winning experience will have successfully engaged and retained customers by offering innovative and relevant benefits. The award honors experiences that exceed expectations by creating an unforgettable experience for recipients. This prize is not reserved for experiences designed exclusively as part of a loyalty programme.
The project:
Soulful Abodes, launched in June 2024 by IHCL, is a transformative travel concept that blends spirituality, mindfulness, and cultural immersion. Spanning over 50 destinations and involving 60+ hotels across India, it caters to the growing global demand for spiritual tourism, a sector that attracts over 20 million visitors annually. With its tagline "Experience India’s Spiritual Destinations with Us," Soulful Abodes positions IHCL as a leader in spiritual tourism.
This year-long initiative offers guests unique experiences, including riverfront aartis, temple visits, meditation retreats, and cultural immersions, tailored to individual preferences. Participating IHCL brands—Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta, Gateway, and Ginger—provide diverse options for luxury and budget-conscious travelers, ensuring serene environments conducive to reflection and rejuvenation.
Innovative features such as the Soul Passport, a keepsake to document guests’ spiritual journeys, and eco-friendly Soulful Kits with curated amenities enrich the experience. Inclusive packages offer healthful meals, spa treatments, and seamless transfers, further elevating guest satisfaction. Tailored itineraries focus on themes like self-discovery, inner peace, and cultural immersion.
Soulful Abodes emphasizes sustainability and community engagement through partnerships with local artisans and businesses, offering authentic cultural experiences while supporting the local economy. Plans for expansion include introducing new spiritual locations and increasing the network of participating hotels.
The initiative has achieved remarkable success, generating INR 30 million in revenue within the first 10 days of its launch. A comprehensive marketing strategy using digital ads, social media, emailers, and in-app promotions reached millions of potential travelers, boosting visibility and engagement.
By seamlessly integrating spirituality, wellness, and cultural heritage, Soulful Abodes offers guests transformative journeys while reinforcing IHCL’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in hospitality. This unique proposition sets a benchmark for spiritual tourism in India.
The Hospitality Awards celebrate innovation and excellence and highlight the most creative initiatives in a sector that is constantly and rapidly changing hospitality.
