Hyderabad, January 30, 2012: Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, India's largest hospitality group today announced an addition to the Vivanta by Taj portfolio with the opening of Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet, Hyderabad. With the launch of this hotel, the overall Vivanta by Taj portfolio goes up to 23 hotels. This will be the first hotel under the Vivanta banner in Andhra Pradesh thereby increasing the brand's footprint in the country. It is the 5th property in Hyderabad by Taj Hotels Resorts & Palaces after Taj Banjara, Taj Krishna, Taj Deccan and the iconic Taj Falaknuma Palace

Speaking on the launch of the new hotel, Mr. Raymond N Bickson, M.D. & C.E.O., Indian Hotels Company Limited said "The launch of Vivanta by Taj- Hotels & Resorts heralds a new chapter in the 110 year history of the Taj.With the launch of Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet, Hyderabad we have expanded our footprint in Andhra Pradesh. It supports the company's objective of achieving growth through domestic dominance Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces has had a long-standing relationship with Hyderabad. This is our fifth hotel in the city. The mix of work and play; a stylish urban oasis is what Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet brings to the city of Hyderabad."

Ms. Deepa Misra Harris, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces said, "Vivanta by Taj is the latest brand in the Taj portfolio and we are proud to announce its foray into Begumpet - the fast paced business district of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The name 'Vivanta' draws inspiration from the term 'bon vivant', signifying sophistication and appreciation for the good things in life and also from the attributes of vividness and vivacity. The brand exudes style and a strong sense of living life to the full. Designed to deliver vibrant experiences, Vivanta by Taj Hotels & Resorts is a brand with a contemporary, energetic and vivacious twist."

Speaking on the launch of the hotel,Mr. Veer Vijay Singh, Chief Operating Officer, Vivanta by Taj - Hotels & Resorts said, "We are happy to welcome our guests to the Vivanta experience for the first time in Andhra Pradesh. The Vivanta brand is growing at a rapid pace. Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet, Hyderabad is the fourth Vivanta property to be launched since the last year. With its strategic location and the Vivanta brand features; this hotel has been created for the global traveler looking for a unique and contemporary experience."

Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet, Hyderabad is located at the intersection of Hyderabad and Secunderabad in close proximity to the city centre and the fast paced business district of the twin cities. The hotel is centrally situated, and is a short walk away from Hyderabad's central business districts, tourist attractions and shopping destinations. A convenient distance from the international airport and railway station, the hotel enjoys the unique advantage of servicing both the business and luxury traveller.

Spacious, contemporary and stylish, Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet, Hyderabad has 181 rooms and suites that perfectly blend delightful comforts with smart technologies. Located on the highest floor with access to the Rhythm Lounge, the stunning Presidential Nirvana Suite overlooks the Flying Club air-strip and offers a 180 degree view of the city. In addition, the sprawling Deluxe Allure Suites have separate bedroom and living areas that open out to the breathtaking view of the skyline.

Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet, Hyderabad entices guests into a kaleidoscope of culinary experiences, where innovation and artistry dance in unison creating a theatrical display of sensory delights.

Viva, the all-day diner, is a fresh take on Mediterranean, Italian and European cuisine, fused with Creole and Cajun culinary styles with innovative cooking techniques. Guests can enjoy live interactive cooking on convection trolleys right at the table. The Grill is a romantic poolside al fresco restaurant serving Italian, Moroccan, Greek, Lebanese and Indian cuisines, cooked in shaslik, rotisserie, brochettes and Indian grilling styles. Indulge in the Japanese tradition of Ginco plating, a modular plating, which allows you to personalise your dish as you eat.

Watch the night warm up at Tease, the trendiest nightspot in the city. The bar offers a wide selection of classic martinis, infused signature cocktails, malts, rare scotch whiskeys and other spirits. The menu comprises pan-Asian wokery, Indian and continental cuisine. The bar is poised to be an ode to the cosmopolitan character of Hyderabad with high octane entertainment.

'Tease'is a high-energy bar offering a fine selection of single malts and signature cocktails. The menu comprises tapas, sushi and Indian favourites to reflect the cosmopolitan flavour of the city.

The Thai Pavilion will soon open its doors to the city of Hyderabad.Chef Ananda Solomon will launch the Mumbai legend which is the country's first and unarguably best loved Thai cuisine restaurant at Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet. An interactive kitchen in the middle of the restaurant provides live cooking. There are also semi private dining areas and some tables for those who want to eat in traditional style. Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine paired with a fine collection of young and vintage wines.

Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet offers over 7000 square feet of well-defined, contemporary meeting spaces suitable for power meetings, memorable brand lunches, upscale weddings and other events. The banquet halls have been designed with modern technology, integrating style and elegance, suitably wired for hi-tech conferences and meetings. At the hotel's modern and contemporary styled banquets namely Imperia, Rendezvous, Strategy and Debate, a business meet, a day conference, social functions or corporate dinners can be accommodated based on the theme of your choice.

The hotel also offers guests a rejuvenating and relaxing experience ranging from several alluring natural spa treatments, an energizing workout at the 24-hour gym to a refreshing dip at the swimming pool.

With each Vivanta hotel we present signature experiences, also known as Vivanta Motifs. Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet, Hyderabad offers bespoke culinary journeys for the first time in the twin cities including a day-long excursion called Gourmet Tour, where guests can experience three 2-hour sessions, expertly guided by our Executive Chef.
 
Giving dining an imaginative twist, the hotel presents an exotic in the pool dining experience, where guests can enjoy a fine selection of grills, which will be served inside the pool on a specially-designed glass table. Ask for Chef's Table at Viva to dine with the Executive Chef and get valuable insights, attention and enjoy one of the most remarkable meals of your life.

Echoing the city's vibrancy and fast paced business energy, Vivanta by Taj - Begumpet, Hyderabad, promises to offer unique experiences that perfectly blend leisure, business and hospitality.