Banh com, a traditional Vietnamese delicacy, captivates the taste buds of Indian tourists visiting Hanoi. Made of green sticky rice and green beans, it leaves a lasting impression.
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| Movenpick Living West Hanoi rolls out the red carpet for approximately 300 Indian tourists. Source: Thanh Dong / Tuoi Tre |
Shamila Rolfe, general manager of Movenpick Living West Hanoi, shared with Tuoi Tre that their hotel accommodated nearly 300 Indian guests, who were part of a larger group of 4,500 employees from an Indian company.
The unique Banh com from Lang Vong (Vong Village), where the hotel is situated, was a highlight for these visitors. They were enthralled by the distinctive flavor and texture of this local treat.
“We also introduced them to che com (green rice sweet soup), which they found equally delightful,” Rolfe added.
To ensure a memorable stay, the hotel hired Indian chefs to prepare authentic Indian cuisine for their guests.
The focus was on creating a warm and familiar ambiance, making them feel at home away from home.
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| Indian tourists appreciate familiar dishes and tend to avoid beef, pork, eggs, and root vegetables. Source: Pan Pacific |
Benjamin M. Schwarz, general manager of Pan Pacific Hanoi, provided insight into the dietary preferences of Indian guests. He noted that they prefer familiar dishes and tend to avoid beef, pork, eggs, and root vegetables.
Additionally, ingredients need to be finely ground and blended before cooking and serving. This attention to detail ensures that the food meets their expectations.
When suggesting menu options, the hotel also included a selection of Vietnamese dishes, offering a taste of the local cuisine.
“To commemorate Vietnam’s 79th National Day on September 2, we are hosting a special buffet showcasing specialties from the country’s three regions,” said Schwarz.
With a four-day public holiday from Saturday to Tuesday, it’s an opportune time to celebrate and indulge.
Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha has also gone above and beyond to accommodate the large influx of Indian guests.
In late July, the hotel sent a team to India to collaborate with local travel agents and immerse themselves in the Indian food culture.
Nguyen Thu, an executive at Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha, emphasized the efforts of hotels in Hanoi and across Vietnam to cater to the needs of Indian tourists.
“Understanding Indian travel culture and culinary preferences is key to effectively tapping into this valuable tourism market,” Thu stated.
By meeting the diverse demands of Indian visitors, especially the affluent ones, Vietnam can solidify its position as a desirable tourist destination for this demographic.
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| Masala chai, a popular Indian beverage, is a must-have for Indian guests during their stay. Source: Pan Pacific |
This particular tour was organized by billionaire Dilip Shangvi, founder of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, as a gesture of appreciation for his employees.
The group of 4,500 guests, primarily from India but also including international colleagues, are staying at 11 four- and five-star hotels in Hanoi.
From August 27 to September 3, these employees will explore Hanoi in smaller groups, creating lasting memories.
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| Chefs at Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha prepare authentic Indian cuisine for their guests. Source: Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha |
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| Indian guests complete their check-in procedures at Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha. Source: Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha |
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| Most spices are imported from India to ensure authenticity. Source: Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha |
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| A variety of dishes are prepared to cater to the tastes of Indian guests. Source: Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha |
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