In Focus

A new domain of hospitality: Minerva Grand

EH STAFF - Mumbai

Hyderabad is fast emerging as a hospitality hub, what with all its new and upcoming hotels. And unlike in the past, these new properties feature innovative structures and service. It is no wonder then that luxurious hotels are combining contemporary style with the traditional atmosphere of Indian hospitality. One such example is Minerva Grand, a 105-room boutique hotel, which is an extension of EPOQUE Hotels, an international chain now holding over 300 properties spread over 100 destinations.

The definition of boutique not only refers to property, facility and service, but also echoes the essence of 'boutique of the next decade'. Minerva Grand, located in the heart of Hyderabad has a wide-range of amenities; all at a throw-away distance. Its ARR is also such that even as a boutique offering five-star amenities, it has a three-star price tag. "It is for this reason that our occupancy rate is 80 per cent," explains Subhomoy De, general manager of the hotel. While the ARR is around Rs 4,200, the list of comforts at Minerva Grand include Fiesta, a coffee shop and Blue Fox, a multi-cuisine fine dine restaurant serving Indian, Oriental and Continental cuisine along with a full range of domestic and selected imported beverages. The hotel also has a lounge bar stocked with high-grade wines and whiskies.

When asked as to why the hotel is a boutique property, De replies, "Minerva Group has been known as a trendsetter in the past and we have decided to embark on a new culture in hospitality to ensure our commitment to our business associates, Epoque Hotels. The manpower per room is 1:1.75, whereas the international standards are 1:1 or 1: 1.5. This speaks of our liberal attitude towards caring for guests. In this way, we ensure that there is no space for compromise and we firmly believe in personalised service. For example, drinking water is placed just before the entrance of the lift, assuming that the guests may feel thirsty after returning from work. Our endeavour is thus to take care of even the smallest needs of our customers."

Rooms on offer include premier, imperial and executive suites, deluxe suites and grand suites, all of which are fitted with the latest technological devices, Wi-fi connectivity and a well-stocked mini bar. The unusual design of the hotel includes luxurious space and room service for all rooms, while comfort zones are creatively crafted to provide the unique experience of a boutique property.

The business hotel's eco-friendly features include solar heaters, imported fog-free mirrors, bio-degradable pencils and toiletries and recycled water for use in watering the garden. Minerva Grand is the first boutique hotel in Andhra Pradesh.