Courtesy/News Source: dypatil.edu

D. Y. Patil University School of Hospitality &Tourism Studies organised an exclusive National Workshop on the importance of ‘Concierge in Hospitality and Tourism’ on 27th Aug 2018. This workshop was attended by 180 students from the B.Sc Hospitality first year students. The workshop was conducted by professionals from the industry Mr. Nilesh Belapallu (10 years in St. Regis),Mr. Maxim Mascarenhas(18 years in ITC Maratha Sheraton) and

 Mr. Anil Jagtap (10 years in Courtyard Marriott).

They spoke extensively about the role played by a Concierge desk / associate in the Hotel in creating memorable experiences for a guest by doing simple things differently. The workshop began with them familiarizing the students with the duties of concierge, role played by concierge, how the concierge creates networking amongst themselves.

Les Clefs d’Or India (originally called the Concierge Association of India) registered with The Registrar of Societies has been in existence since July 2000. Having started out as a little fledgling with 10 members (all Adherent members to Les Clefs d’Or, Singapore) it has risen to a very substantial number of 8 Full members and 46 Adherent members with approximately 40 members waiting and learning the ropes to become Clefs d’Or members. Our Activities and Progress to becoming an Independent Chapter got slightly derailed on account of Members ( Concierges ) changing their line and professions.

They now have a presence all over India, including all the metro cities. They have managed to achieve all our goals set in our 4th AGM in Mumbai. In 2001 their 1st AGM was very well received and there were very positive signs of Progress. However, on account of factors beyond our control the Association went into hibernation.

Mr. Maxim narrated his personal incidences at ITC Maratha Sheraton. In hotels or resorts, a concierge assists guests by performing various tasks such as making restaurant reservations, booking hotels, arranging for spa services, recommending night life hot spots, booking transportation (like taxi, limousines, airplanes, boats, etc.), coordinating porter service (luggage assistance etc.The students were thrilled to hear experiences from the industry as it was a very interactive session. The students found the workshop to be very informative. They had a great learning from the experienced guests who conducted the workshop. They are looking forward to many more of such workshops. One of Our student Lincoln Reibero said ‘ it was a very informative workshop as they got many new learnings and the experiences shared by the speakers helped them understand the concept even better. Assistant Professor AartiPandirkarorganised this workshop on behalf of the college. The session concluded with a vote of thanks and felicitation for the guests for taking time out and conducting such an informative workshop.