Celebrating the heart of hospitality, the IHCL Goa way

In the world of luxury travel, it is often the quietest gestures that leave the deepest impressions. Behind every pristine suite, every thoughtfully arranged detail and every serene moment of comfort stands the devotion of housekeepers – the true, unspoken artistry of hospitality. This September, IHCL Goa paid homage to these custodians of care by celebrating International Housekeepers’ Week from 15 September across all its hotels in the region, a heartfelt tribute to the spirit, resilience and dedication of its housekeeping teams.
What set this year’s celebration apart was that it extended beyond hotel walls, embracing the wider community. IHCL Goa brought together the pillars of society – leaders, educators and changemakers from Goa’s foremost hospitality schools, to join in honouring the role of housekeeping.
This confluence of industry professionals, aspiring talent, and community voices underscores the importance of service as both a craft and a calling.

BEHIND THE SCENES
“Housekeeping is the silent heartbeat of hospitality,” shares Sarita Fernandes, Area Director – Housekeeping, IHCL Goa. “Guests may not always see us, but they always feel us — in the comfort of their rooms, the freshness of their surroundings, and the warmth of thoughtful details. This week is about celebrating that spirit, while inspiring the next generation to view housekeeping not just as a profession, but as a profound expression of care.”
The week-long celebrations included interactive workshops, panel discussions with experts and immersive sessions designed to spotlight the evolving landscape of housekeeping — from sustainable practices and wellness-driven guest care to innovations in luxury service.
By inviting hospitality students, IHCL Goa created a bridge between learning and living the ethos of exceptional service, inspiring young talent to embrace the craft with pride.

WORDS OF APPRECIATION
Speaking on the inaugural session of the celebration at Taj Cidade de Goa, Horizon, Ranjit Phillipose, Sr Vice President (Operations) at IHCL Goa said, “On International Housekeepers Day, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the incredible housekeeping teams who form the very backbone of our hospitality. Their dedication, precision, and warmth ensure that every guest experiences the true essence of care and comfort. Beyond maintaining impeccable standards, they bring heart into every detail — transforming rooms into welcoming sanctuaries.”
“Their work often goes unseen, yet it is deeply felt by all who walk through our doors. Today, we celebrate their commitment, resilience, and pride in service. To our housekeeping colleagues – you are the silent heroes of hospitality, and we salute you,” he added.
As Goa continues to evolve as a global destination for luxury, culture and wellness, IHCL Goa’s tribute to housekeepers serves as a reminder that the foundation of hospitality is built not only on architecture and aesthetics, but on care delivered with grace and humility.