Hari Nair is an avid traveller and a savvy hotel expert. In his current role as vice president of market management EMEA for Expedia, Inc., he is responsible for overseeing the company’s hotel supplier relationships and directs lodging for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, so there is not much he doesn’t know about hotels and the travel business. Hari and his teamwork closely with thousands of properties to help them effectively build their visibility, increase guest interest and drive bookings on the branded Hotels.com and Expedia sites.
Hari cut his teeth in the hotel industry working in food and beverage operations for Oberoi Hotels. He then joined Exepdia as part of the lodging team for North America, the Caribbean and Canada, before moving to EMEA. His time with Oberoi and his 10-year tenure at Expedia have allowed him to visit more than 36 countries and stay in hundreds of hotels, so it is unsurprising that he struggled to pin down his top six destinations. Below he shares his top picks with Destinations of the World News.
New York
This city was my home for three years and the atmosphere there is always electric. It is a true 24/7 city with a buzz that is as unique as it is infectious. Just some of the things I love about this destination are the New York attitude, the pizzas (which are to die for), Madison and 5th Avenue, all the history around Ellis Island and immigration, and the East Village. Visitors should also check out the up-and-coming Meat Packing district, which is bustling with boutique hotels, bars, cafes and restaurants.
Prague
Prague really is the jewel in the European city break crown. It is just jaw-droppingly gorgeous and I am overwhelmed by it every time I visit. Prague Castle dominates the city skyline and is definitely worth a visit. The city is not renowned for its cuisine like some other European destinations but it does have a wealth of restaurants that serve great local and international fare at very inexpensive prices.
Istanbul
Istanbul is a city that perfectly blends two cultures, European and Asian, but the hospitality is uniquely Turkish. When I visit Istanbul I always make sure to take in the spice market, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace, which is a beautiful setting.
Peru
There are so many reasons to love Peru; Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and the Nazca lines, which are a series of ancient geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert in the south of the country. I love the setting of Machu Picchu, all the hiking trails, the wealth of history around the Inca civilisation, the beauty and expanse of Lake Titicaca and most of all the Peruvian culture and people who live around it on the islands of Uros.
Mumbai
It is home – my home country. Mumbai is a city of complete contrasts that ignites all six senses; the sights, smells, tastes and vibrant colours are totally unique. The city has the most amazing street food, which anyone visiting must taste. When I am back I always make a point of visiting the Gateway of India monument, taking a walk down Marine Drive, savouring the calmness of Malabar Hills and going shopping in the fantastically cheap fashion street.
London
This city has been my home for two years, so I am really still getting to know it. But now is such an exciting time to be in London, having had the Jubilee and the Olympics – the atmosphere has been electric. I love London for the contrast between the bustling streets and leafy quiet squares, the amazing shopping, traditional pubs and the history and culture. It is also a truly multicultural city, which suits me just perfectly.
