The flagship Hotel Investment Conference – South Asia (HICSA) is back! Since its inaugural edition in 2005 and in its 18^th year now, HICSA has come a long way from 190 attendees to having between 500-600 delegates from more than 20 countries across the world and developing into the premier hospitality event Asia. Valued for its content-rich sessions and excellent networking opportunities, it is an unequalled gathering place for top management, hotel owners, bankers, developers and professional advisors from around the globe. The event features a collection of keynote speeches, stage interviews and engaging panel discussions from subject matter experts and industry stalwarts.

Traditionally the conference has always been held in Mumbai or Delhi. However, the 18^th edition is now scheduled to be in Bengaluru for the first time! In its new avatar, HICSA sees a new city, new hotels, a new format and a new theme! This edition will be entirely spread over two and half days, with the main conference taking place at the Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn – Embassy Manyata Business Park. This will be preceded by a specially curated golf tournament for the hoteliers and owners as well as the opening reception and networking event at the JW Marriott Bengaluru Golfshire Resort & Spa.

While last year the theme was “Harder Better Faster Stronger” and was centred around resilience, this year we have taken a step further and are focussing on striving for excellence. The Theme for this year is AI – Artificial Intelligence, Astute Investments and Aesthetic Interiors. These three arms of AI can now be considered the three main pillars of hospitality allowing decisions to be made which improve core business processes while simplifying strategic decision-making. The importance of personalisation and its impact on better guest experience has been well researched and discussed. The three arms of AI help in doing just that by making experiences better and more meaningful, and creating enhanced stakeholder value, right from owners to end users. We hope the event can further harness the potential of the sector by fostering an exchange of ideas.