IHG Hotels & Resorts debuts Kimpton brand in Portugal with a signing in the Algarve

IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hospitality companies, today premiers its Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants brand in Portugal, with the signing of Kimpton Algarve São Rafael Atlántico. This addition reinforces the strength of the Kimpton brand as part of IHG’s Luxury & Lifestyle offering in Europe, where it currently operates 93 hotels in this segment and a further 57 under development.

Signed under a franchise agreement with Highgate Portugal, the hotel is expected to open in 2025 offering 149 guest rooms, more than 1,300 m2 of meeting space and multiple restaurants and bars. The hotel will also offer a rounded wellness experience, with indoor and outdoor pools, a gym and a full-service spa. The interior design concept takes its inspiration from the area’s natural and cultural surroundings, including vibrant orange groves, azueljos (tin-glazed tileworks) and ceramics.

The southernmost area of the country, the Algarve is a major Portuguese tourist destination thanks to its sunny climate, world renowned beaches and natural beauty. The beachfront hotel is located steps from Sao Rafael beach, one of the top ten beaches in the Algarve framed by limestone cliffs, and a short distance from Albufeira - a lively and historic resort town on the coastline with whitewashed houses, 18th century churches, shops and bars.

Mrs Willemijn Geels, VP Development, Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “What a milestone to be able to sign our first Kimpton property in Portugal. We have focussed on building our presence in the country, especially in the Luxury & Lifestyle segment with our recently opened first Vignette Collection hotels in Lisbon and Porto which complement our three existing InterContinental properties and a Six Senses in Douro Valley. This signing shows the confidence that owners have in our Luxury & Lifestyle expertise, market knowledge and enterprise, as well as the appetite that guests have for the Kimpton brand. It promises to be a stunning hotel and we look forward to welcoming our first guests in 2025.”

Alexandre Solleiro, CEO of Highgate Portugal said: “We are proud to bring the first Kimpton hotel to one of Portugal’s most popular tourist destinations together with IHG Hotels & Resorts. We’ve seen the success of the brand across Europe in countries like Spain, France, Netherlands and the UK, and we think this hotel will be a perfect addition to the portfolio. We are delighted to work together to realise the full potential of this property and show our continued investment in the local area.”

IHG operates 19 open hotels across six brands in Portugal, including Six Senses, InterContinental, Vignette Collection, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express. In Iberia, IHG has 66 open hotels and a pipeline of 26 properties.

Radisson Hotel Group Introduces Palchan Hotel & Spa

Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce the opening of Palchan Hotel & Spa, a member of Radisson Individual Retreats in Manali. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan range, the hotel offers guests an unparalleled experience with a chance to reconnect with nature as it is surrounded by lush green valleys and serene waterfalls.

Located on the Rohtang Highway, the hotel is around 1.5 hours away from Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar and close to local bus and train stations. Guests can also reach easily by car or taxi and benefit from the on-site parking.

“We envision Radisson Hotel Group’s next phase of growth to be driven by key hotel openings in India’s leading leisure destinations. Radisson Individuals Retreats allows us the opportunity to enable and co-create unparalleled experiences for guests in every part of India, especially in tier-II and III cities. Considering the heavy footfall of travelers visiting Himachal Pradesh and especially Manali, the hotel’s strategic location will be one of its key USPs. With this opening, our goal is to make experience-driven hospitality accessible to a wider audience, while also ensuring that our presence enriches the local community and preserves the natural beauty of this Himalayan paradise.” said Zubin Saxena, Managing Director & Area Senior Vice President - South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group

IHG Hotels & Resorts to debut Crowne Plaza property in Labuan Bajo

Landmark partnership with MMS Land brings world-renowned brand to island paradise and gateway to Komodo National Park UNESCO Heritage Site.

 IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, today announced a landmark partnership with MMS Land – the property and hospitality arm of MMS Group Indonesia.

The new-build Crowne Plaza Labuan Bajo will be the IHG’s premium brand third property in Indonesia, and mark IHG’s entry into an exciting new destination as it continues its strategic growth in the country.

Located next to Komodo International Airport and just 15 minutes from the waterfront on the most western tip of Flores Island, the hotel will provide the ideal base for guests to explore the area’s many world-class wonders. These include the spectacular Komodo National Park – anointed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991 – comprising volcanic islands that are home to more than 5,000 rare, giant ‘Komodo Dragons’ lizards.

On top of attracting leisure travellers, Crowne Plaza Labuan Bajo is also being developed as a leading MICE destination, with its facilities – including more than approximately 600 square metres of meeting space – set to cater for the needs of domestic and international business guests.

Chris Anklin, Senior Director, Development, South East Asia and Korea, IHG Hotels & Resorts said: “It’s truly exciting to introduce a fantastic Crowne Plaza hotel at Labuan Bajo in partnership with MMS Land. Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts is one of the world’s largest premium hotel brands and ideally-suited for guests who visit this island paradise for leisure, business or blended travel.

“We know there is a big hunger for experiential travel now, and we’re working closely with our owners to develop forward-looking hotel experiences that bring our destinations to life and support their overall development. Labuan Bajo is an enchanting harbour town that has been earmarked as one of Indonesia’s five super-priority destinations. The signing today underscores IHG’s commitment to further expand its footprint in Indonesia and grow our portfolio in strategic destinations across the country.”

According to the Central Bureau of Statistics of West Manggarai Regency, the number of hotels in Labuan Bajo increased by 50% between 2016-2018, rising from 64 hotels with 1,030 rooms to 98 hotels with 1,462 rooms, making it one of Indonesia’s highest-growth territories in terms of hotel development.

More recently, the Central Bureau of Statistics of East Nusa Tenggara, the province where Labuan Bajo is located, reported that star hotels in the region have shown a strong growth in demand, with a 36% increase in first quarter of 2023 as compared to 2022.

Mr. Andre Chandra Biantoro, CEO, MMS Land said: “We are excited to be working with IHG – a truly internationally-renowned operator – on this landmark project. We have seen IHG have great success with the world’s best airport hotel, Crowne Plaza Changi Airport in Singapore, and are confident that together we’ll emulate that outstanding level of achievement with Crowne Plaza Labuan Bajo.

“The Crowne Plaza brand appeals to modern business travellers for many reasons, including how it offers thoughtful, multi-functional zones and spaces for guests to switch between work and leisure. It’s also the market leader when it comes to hosting meetings, and a globally trusted choice for businesses everywhere.

“Labuan Bajo is an up-and-coming MICE destination and recently hosted the ASEAN Summit in May 2023. With its strategic location, Crowne Plaza Labuan Bajo will quickly become the hotel of choice for visitors to this idyllic town, boosting visits to Labuan Bajo to at least the pre-pandemic level of 250,000 tourists per year, while greatly strengthening its tourist eco-system, promoting economic growth and supporting local communities.”

Crowne Plaza Labuan Bajo will offer guests a choice of 199 WorkLife rooms and suites across seven stories. In addition to its expansive meeting space, facilities will include the Plaza Workspace, three restaurants & bars, a fitness centre, spa and swimming pool.

Crowne Plaza Labuan Bajo will contribute to the development of the national tourism sector in West Manggarai Regency and East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Province. As a gateway to the area’s scenic islands, the hotel will appeal to adventure travellers, with water activities, including snorkeling and diving, island hopping and cave exploration nearby.

As the world’s fourth largest market by population – and biggest in South East Asia – Indonesia is a key market for IHG. It’s home to one of its largest portfolios in the region with 24 hotels across six brands – Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts and Holiday Inn Express – and 15 hotels in a pipeline that includes the upcoming brand debuts of Regent Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection and voco hotels. 

Crowne Plaza Labuan Bajo will be the third Crowne Plaza hotel to open in Indonesia, following Crowne Plaza Bandung and Crowne Plaza Jakarta Residences – a testament to its unfaltering potential as an attractive business and travel destination.

The Crowne Plaza brand continues to expand rapidly across Asia Pacific where it has quickly become the ideal accommodation choice through a purposeful design that offers flexible spaces to work, meet and relax, while satisfying and inspiring the needs of its guests both personally and professionally. Its Plaza Workspace, a new take on the traditional hotel lobby, offers agile work and relaxation areas that promote connections and encourage informal gatherings, while the brand’s patented WorkLife Room offers guests a combination of comfort, connectivity and flexibility with distinct zones for work, relaxation and sleep.

Asia Pacific is the future home of more than 90 Crowne Plaza hotels including Thailand’s Crowne Plaza Bangkok Grand Sukhumvit, Malaysia’s Crowne Plaza Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City and Crowne Plaza Kota Kinabalu Waterfront and across Australasia, Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton, Crowne Plaza Shell Cove Marina and Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa.

These outstanding properties will follow recently-opened Crowne Plaza Vinh Yen City Centre and Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay in Vietnam, and four Crowne Plaza openings in Australia, comprising two in Sydney in Darling Harbour and Burwood, and others in Adelaide and Tasmania. IHG’s renowned portfolio already includes Crowne Plaza Changi Airport – a eight-consecutive year winner of the Skytrax World’s Best Airport Hotel award – the elegant Crowne Plaza Paris – Republique, and Crowne Plaza Hamburg.

Hilton Debuts in Yala with Opening of Hilton Yala Resort

Leading global hospitality company Hilton today announced the opening of Hilton Yala Resort, marking Hilton’s third flagship-branded property in Sri Lanka. Just outside Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park and surrounded by lush greenery, the resort provides an elevated escape for guests seeking adventure and relaxation, with a vast view that overlooks the Indian Ocean.

“We are delighted to welcome Hilton Yala Resort to our expanding portfolio across Sri Lanka and South East Asia,” said Alexandra Murray, area vice president and head of South East Asia, Hilton. "Through the resort’s immersive and rewarding experiences, which beautifully showcases Yala’s natural wonders, we are confident it will be a haven for guests looking to fully connect with nature, enabling them to embark on a journey of self-discovery like no other.”

Designed to immerse guests in the wonders of nature, the resort boasts striking architecture that draws from Yala’s natural beauty. The 42 stylish rooms, suites, and villas feature contemporary interiors that are decorated in neutral tones with safari chic accents and local artworks, which add subtle hints of the locale. Vast windows draw the eye to the resort’s natural surroundings which is home to an abundance of flora and fauna. Ground floor rooms feature private pools, which span from eight to 16 square meters, while those on the level above offer private hot tubs, providing a serene space for guests to unwind.

“Set in the best destinations around the world, each Hilton Hotels & Resorts property places guests at the centre of it all,” said Alexandra Jaritz, senior vice president, Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “With its prime location at the edge of the country’s most popular national park, Hilton Yala Resort serves as a beacon for the brand in the region, extending more rewarding and enriching travel experiences to the world. We look forward to empowering guests to make the most of their getaway with renewing experiences that inspire and excite, all complemented by Hilton’s signature hospitality.”  

Hilton Yala Resort’s guest experiences extend far beyond its perimeters. The resort offers an elevated and environmentally responsible safari experience - with locally trained rangers. This team of wildlife experts is dedicated to helping guests experience the best of Yala National Park through customizable, twice daily game drives. Each safari tour is dedicated to delivering enlightening and impactful educational sessions to bring about a stronger sense of awareness and appreciation of the wildlife and ecosystem.

The protection of Yala’s biodiversity and environmental sustainability is at the centre of Hilton Yala Resort’s ethos, with the resort designed to ensure the utmost care for the surrounding environment, ecosystem and local communities. Hilton is working with many local partners to advance efforts to preserve and protect local habitats and biodiversity as part of their destination stewardship efforts. An onsite animal research program has also been initiated under the support of microgrant funding provided by the Hilton Global Foundation, equipping rangers with the latest wildlife information, technology and necessary tools, such as solar-powered weather sensors, and night vision binoculars to monitor wildlife in and near the resort, helping them further understand and protect indigenous species. This research will be in collaboration with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) Small Cat Advisory, Leopard Diary and the Wilderness and Wildlife Conservation Trust (WWCT) to better inform local conservation efforts.

“We are delighted that Hilton Yala Resort is dedicated to contributing to both conservation and economic opportunities for the communities in the vicinity. This is the first international hotel resort chain in the Yala locality and it will give a huge boost to responsible tourism. It is heartening to know the steps that Hilton Yala Resort has taken to conserve the biodiversity around the property. Being responsible in how the property is managed is very important. Sri Lanka needs responsible and sustainable tourism and we believe that a leading hotel chain such as Hilton will lead the charge in the Yala National Park to conserve the region ethically. We are especially glad to be partnering on wildlife research with the resort's ranger team and to be working on a longer-term project to collaborate with the farming community to protect wildlife across the Yala zone and expand the purchase of locally grown produce for the hotel. In addition, we are excited to be exploring the development of community education programs with the resort," said Jehan CanagaRetna, President of WNPS.

As part of Hilton’s efforts to advance its destination stewardship objectives and career advancement goals, the global hospitality company has also established a ranger academy program to increase the talent pool of qualified rangers in Sri Lanka and to provide meaningful employment and conservation opportunities for members of the local community. The program will be conducted by a Field Guides Association of Southern Africa-certified trainer. Upon completion of the program, successful graduates may be offered employment with Hilton Yala Resort.

Three exceptional restaurants stand unrivalled, spotlighting head chef Jerome Tissera’s repertoire of contemporary Sri Lankan cuisine, which feature predominantly locally sourced ingredients. Guests can explore the flavors of contemporary Asia at Dhira, the all-day dining establishment; Sandali, a premier dining destination known for its Western cuisine or indulge with cocktails at night at Vanya, while enjoying scenic views. For a truly memorable meal, guests can venture into the wild to experience Lanthaaruma, the resort's bespoke dining experience set between the lush jungle and the lapping waves of the Indian Ocean, where a fully customized menu of the freshest and highest quality ingredients is accompanied by sommelier-selected wines.

At the heart of the resort is the outdoor pool, which blends seamlessly with its breathtaking surroundings. The resort also features a fully equipped gym, and a state-of-the-art spa that sits beside the main building, providing relaxing treatments in a beautifully designed space.      Hilton Yala Resort is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 22 distinct hotel brands. To celebrate the resort’s opening, Hilton Honors members will receive 10,000 bonus points with a minimum stay of three nights booked from now till December 1, 2023, when booking directly with Hilton.

Suba Group of Hotels Launches Third Hotel in Madhya Pradesh, Click Hotel in Pithampur

Suba Group of Hotels, has achieved another milestone with the launch of third hotel i.e., Click Hotel on October 9, 2023 in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh. Pithampur is recognized as one of India’s major industrial hubs, a SEZ and is a part of Indore metropolitan region and conveniently accessible by Road, Rail, and Air with Devi Ahilya Bai International Airport, Indore situated less than 1 hour away from the city.

 Announcing the opening, Mansur Mehta, Managing Director, Suba Group of Hotels, said, “We are delighted to launch Click Hotel in Pithampur. With the launch of Click Hotel, we look forward to serve guests for official as well as social gatherings and stays, Click Hotel, Pithampur perfectly epitomizes the brand’s core values - offering high quality bed - breakfast & broadband (WIFI) coupled with immaculate service and unparalleled hospitality of international standards. This ensures maximum comfort for long stay guests, both locals and expats. As an organization which is deeply rooted in India, we are also committed towards sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint. We shall be using a sustainable approach by replacing plastic water bottles with reusable glass bottles and encouraging guests to reuse linen and towels. These initiatives to promote green tourism here in Pithampur will also be implemented across all our other properties.”

Click Hotel, Pithampur is a smart, modern, and elegant boutique luxury hotel. It is an affordable, budget friendly yet full-service business hotel designed to cater to the new age business travelers.

The hotel features 63 premium contemporary rooms & suites and an inhouse multi-cuisine restaurant - CINNAMON. The hotel also offers in-room dining along with efficient service and a comprehensive range of guest facilities to ensure a pleasant stay for the guests. Other facilities such as gym & conference rooms will also be launched shortly.

Mubeen Mehta, CEO, Suba Group of Hotels said, “We are pleased to expand our footprints in Madhya Pradesh with the launch of Click Hotel in Pithampur & this is our third brand presence in the Indore Pithampur metropolitan region. This full-service hotel with all contemporary elements is ideal for business & leisure guests along with flexible independent travelers (FIT), and group travelers. It is our endeavor to continue to penetrate our reach across popular destinations across the country & offering standard stay & culinary facilities. Like the other Click Hotels in India, Pithampur will also enjoy the best of services, as our empathetic approach helps win over our guests.”

With a prime location and close proximity of all major Industries, IIM – Indore, and 45 minutes away from Indore City, Click Hotel - Pithampur is a perfect choice for those who look for great comfort, value, standard services with a touch of luxury, and want to escape the hustle and bustle of the corporate/industries.

Abinash Ashok, VP - Suba Group of Hotels added “With the Launch of Click Hotel, Pithampur - we wish to extend the Click Hotel’s stay experience to all our regular Suba patrons and specially the new age travelers who look forward to enjoy the quality stay along with hi speed WiFi at prominent locations at dynamic stay charges. With the launch of this hotel - we also emphasis on reducing our carbon footprint and bring down our plastic usage to zero in the near future.”

Each of the Group’s properties boasts luxurious rooms with a host of banqueting and F&B facilities. Suba Hotels serves modern travelers by providing a distinctive stay experience, outstanding quality services, and exceptional facilities at competitive pricing. The company has footprints in all major metros, including tier 1 and tier 2 cities. All of their facilities provide elegant and large rooms, exciting locations for holding weddings, events, and exhibitions, and a fantastic dining experience at iconic restaurants.

About Suba Group of Hotels:

Suba Group of Hotels is one of the leading hotel chains in India with the quickest rate of expansion. Providing guests with a variety of lodging options, from affordable to upscale. Suba Group of Hotels presently operate under the label of 9 brands (only 7 names mentioned) across India. The brand names are Suba hotels (upscale), Click Hotels (Midscale), Clarion (Upscale), Quality (Upper- midscale) and Comfort (midscale). In the mid segment, they have GenX and RNB.

Pullman Singapore Hill Street Opens!

Pullman Hotels & Resorts, a premium brand part of global hospitality player Accor, is pleased to announce that the highly anticipated Pullman Singapore Hill Street will start welcoming guests from 1 October 2023.

Developed and owned by EL Development Pte Ltd, a leading Singapore-based real estate and investment company, the new 5-star hotel will make its mark as the company’s first foray into hotels with the most story-led property yet under the Pullman brand. Centrally located, Pullman Singapore Hill Street is poised to become the newest gathering point for modern nomads, who can call its 350 rooms their base, complemented by three sharp culinary concepts to explore, and a dynamic network of partnerships as a platform for some of Singapore’s cult favorite brands.

“With a prime position at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and business, we are honored to be the first Pullman in the world that pays homage to the brand’s roots in luxury train travel—from the keen design details that represent a modern take on the bygone era, to the spirit of high touch hospitality, and exciting journeys through thoughtfully curated spaces—the true meaning of innovative hospitality today is captured in a singular property, perfect for adventurous travelers,” says Mazen Abilmona, General Manager of Pullman Singapore Hill Street.

Designed by Singapore’s DP Architects, Pullman Singapore Hill Street is envisioned to be the first property that translates the George Pullman sleeping car past to a modern context—whether it’s from afar or the moment guests step into the lobby, up to the tiniest details. Built from the ground-up with cues from its surroundings, the property stands out as a visionary future of the locale with its contrast of terracotta-colored tiles, pockets of lush greenery and an extensive glass façade that allows clear views from every room.

700 Room Andaz Macau Opens Doors as Largest Property within Andaz Brand Portfolio

Offering 700 uniquely appointed rooms and suites, the new property immerses guests into the center of Macau’s art and culture at the award-winning integrated Galaxy Macau™ resort

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) announced today the opening of Andaz Macau in collaboration with Galaxy Macau™, the city’s prestigious luxury shopping, dining, entertainment and resort complex. The latest opening is the Andaz brand’s first and only hotel in Macau and its largest property globally. Inspired by the vibrant local art, culture, and architecture, the hotel features more than 700 uniquely appointed guest rooms and suites, immersing guests in the "real Macau." The hotel features a stunning collection of artworks and artifacts that tells the story of the city's soul through art, celebrating its heritage and future while allowing guests to express themselves through art.

"We are excited about collaborating with Galaxy Entertainment Group and introducing the Andaz brand to Macau,” said Stephen Ho, President of Growth and Operations for Asia Pacific at Hyatt. “This is a momentous occasion for us, and we believe our immersive and inspiring hotel experience will appeal to locals and tourists alike.

A striking architectural addition to the city, Andaz Macau’s two hotel towers are located between the picturesque and well-preserved neighborhoods of Old Taipa and Coloane. Guests can easily access the city’s charming traditional attractions and Galaxy Macau’s world-class facilities. With its direct connection to both Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) and the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena, as well as its dedicated check-in lounge explicitly designed to provide a seamless arrival for large groups, Andaz Macau offers unrivaled convenience for both convention center and leisure guests looking to fulfill their curiosities through their travels.

“Andaz Macau is brimming with exceptional social spaces, innovative bars and restaurants, and elegant event venues that are sure to impress and delight our guests,” said William Cheung, general manager of Andaz Macau. “Our primary aim is to provide an exciting hotel experience infused with the rich cultural heritage of Macau, igniting our guests' creativity, and inspiring them to express their unique styles and interests.”

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The Fern Hotels & Resorts Launches Mysa Zinc Journey by The Fern, Nani Devati, Gujarat

The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is pleased to announce the launch of Mysa Zinc Journey by The Fern, Nani Devati, Gujarat. This is the company’s 25th operational hotel in Gujarat. The resort is located a short 45-minute drive from Ahmedabad, making it an attractive staycation option for both corporate and leisure guests, for their conferences & meetings, corporate events, social celebrations or just a get-away break from the city.

Mysa Zinc Journey by The Fern, Nani Devati offers 24 luxurious rooms and suites with a refreshing view of the golf course. All the rooms are fully air-conditioned, with Eco-Friendly lighting and bathroom amenities. The property is spread over 9 acres inside the exquisite Glade One Golf Club, allowing guests to indulge in the 9-hole Gary Player-designed golf course. The resort also offers multipurpose courts, spa treatments and a refreshing pool for its guests. Whether for leisure or business, the resort will comply with every demand of its guests, offering a memorable and elegant stay in its sylvan surroundings. Tabebuia, the all-day diner that serves appetizing buffets and a la carte, is nestled against lush green lawns and the lake, facing the golf course, and offers both alfresco and indoor dining.

Expressing his enthusiasm at the opening, Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are delighted to announce the launch of Mysa Zinc Journey by the Fern, Nani Devati. We are buoyed by the industrial growth of Gujarat which has fuelled demand for upscale hotels in this region. Mysa Zinc Journey by the Fern provides high-quality facilities and environmentally friendly amenities to meet the needs of the business and leisure traveler.”  

Announcing the launch, Kevin Ashley Martis, General Manager - Sales & Marketing (West India), The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “The Fern Hotels & Resorts has achieved another significant milestone with the launch of Mysa Zinc Journey by the Fern, Nani Devati. We take pride in our ability to respond to the changing requirements and interests of guests and this expansion allows us to offer our hospitality to a wider demographic. We look forward to welcoming guests to our new locations, where they will find the right combination of comfort, elegance and unrivaled hospitality.”

LOCATION: The hotel is 41.4 km from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, 32.4 km from Kalupur Railway Station, 20.5 km from Sarkhej-Gandhinagar Highway and 8.8 km from the Sanand Corporate Area.

ADDRESS: Sanand-Bavla Road, Nani Devati, Sanand 382 170 Gujarat, India

Sterling Launches Resort Within Gujarat’s Largest Theme Park At Vadodara

·         Marks foray into Resort Management within Theme Parks

·         63-room resort in largest Theme Park in Gujarat with 40+ rides and Water Park

Chennai, September -Sterling Holiday Resorts, India's leading leisure hospitality brand, announced the opening of its new resort Sterling Aatapi Wonderland, Vadodara located within Gujarat’s largest theme park.

The resort is located within the expansive 70-acre theme park: Aatapi Wonderland Vadodara, with 40+ exciting thrills and rides, ranging from roller coaster, zip line, and go-karts to an indoor AC park for kids with trampolines and soft play areas. Aatapi also boasts of an exhilarating water park with slides and various rides.

The 63-room resort offers a choice of comfortable stay experiences in 35 Premium and Super Premium rooms that are spacious and with plush amenities and 28 upscale tents with private sit-outs. ‘Tapisco’ – the in-house pure vegetarian dining venue, serves original Gujarati specials along with popular global favourites.

With a versatile indoor banqueting facility and sprawling lawns that can take multiple events, Sterling Aatapi Wonderland is ideally suited for corporates to have conferences, offsites and product launches and can cater to the companies in the nearby Industrial Park, to corporates in Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Mumbai and beyond.

Vrindavan Gardens within the park, offers perfectly manicured and ornate lawns for multiple social gatherings. Sterling can organize curated thematic decor, sumptuous vegetarian feasts and all the services required for Grand Weddings. A huge parking lot is an added convenience.

Within a 2.5-hour drive from Ahmedabad and 25 kilometres from the Cultural City of Vadodara, Sterling Aatapi Wonderland Vadodara is ideally suited for families seeking a relaxed holiday or a vacation filled with thrills and excitement. The resort can be a base to enjoy the sights of

Vadodara, like the Lakshmi Vilas Palace and to visit the Statue of Unity, the tallest statue in the world.

Speaking on the launch of the resort, Mr. Vikram Lalvani, MD and CEO of Sterling Holiday Resorts said, “Sterling Aatapi Wonderland is a welcome addition to our bouquet of resorts and is a significant addition to our Leisure Portfolio. We look forward to expanding our presence in the theme park segment.”

On the occasion, Mrs. Bindiya Shah, Director CCEL said,

“We are extremely pleased with our association withSterling providing top-notch accommodation and food options within the theme park. With Sterling we are assured of world-class hospitality and with its widespread network and distribution system across the country, we are sure to increase the popularity of Aatapi Wonderland across different travel segments.”

Sterling     Aatapi     Wonderland    Vadodara    is     currently     open     for    bookings     on     www.sterlingholidays.com

The Luxury Collection Debuts in the Historic Japanese City of Nara With the Opening of Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara

The Luxury Collection, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of 31 extraordinary hotel brands, today announces the opening of Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara in one of Japan’s most historic and scenic leisure destinations. The extraordinary property is nestled on the western edge of Nara Park and beautifully combines Japanese architecture with the lush greenery of a traditional Japanese temple garden, which forms part of the hotel grounds. The name “Shisui” was inspired by the purple trunks and green leaves or "Shikan Suiyou” of Nara's scenic vistas, cherished since ancient times. The hotel beautifully embodies the destination's history, culture and indigenous traditions, offering global explorers unique and authentic experiences of Nara.

"We are thrilled to mark the opening of Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara, the fifth Luxury Collection hotel in Japan. Each Luxury Collection hotel captivates guests with local culture, evocative moments and breath-taking scenery, creating priceless memories for a lifetime,” said Philipp Weghmann, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. “Shisui is a rare and exceptional property that is intrinsically connected to Nara and its scenic natural beauty. Through its exquisite design, impeccable service and array of luxurious amenities, the hotel defines the destination and transforms it into a truly exceptional experience for visitors."

Shisui is nestled in an enchanting classical Japanese garden that was once part of the grounds of Kofuku-ji temple, the family temple of the aristocratic Fujiwara clan, which was established in Nara in 710 AD. The temple is one of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara” and remains a timeless showcase of Japanese architecture and culture. Once Japan’s imperial capital during the eighth century, Nara is home to an incomparable collection of UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, some of which surround the hotel – Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple and Todaiji Temple. Beyond the grounds, Nara Park, pristine forests, valleys and traditional Japanese villages await discovery and exploration. The hotel is located a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu-Nara train station, which offers direct connections to Kyoto and Osaka in 35 minutes and 45 minutes respectively. Osaka Itami International Airport is approximately 48 kilometers, or about 45 minutes’ drive away from the hotel.

Renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and Associates conceptualized the overall design direction and interiors of the hotel, breathing new life into traditional Japanese architecture and the beauty of the Yoshiki-en temple garden with modern aesthetics to create a rare luxury stay experience for guests. The hotel’s reception lobby, restaurant and lounge are situated in a charming low wooden structure, first built in 1922 as the residence of the Governor of Nara, with its classical Japanese roofed gate preserved as the hotel’s main entrance.

Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate Shisui's 43 guest rooms and suites with natural daylight, and immerse guests in the beauty of the historic gardens and greenery. The exceptional interiors feature Nara's indigenous crafts, honoring the renowned traditional artisans of the region. Select guest rooms also feature captivating views of nearby Mount Wakakusa, and for relaxation in unparalled luxury and tranquillity, deluxe rooms and suites offer private in-room hot spring or open-air baths.

Shisui invites visitors to discover Nara's rich epicurean traditions with two distinctive restaurants and a bar, which authentically showcase the styles and presentations of the destination's cuisine. Restaurant Suiyou is the hotel's smart-casual all-day dining restaurant serving a curated menu of local and international fare. Within the restored storage rooms of the former Governor's residence, Sushi & Bar Shousou delights diners with exquisite, innovative interpretations of traditional sushi.

Guests can enjoy an invigorating workout in an exclusive Fitness Center, and for the ultimate indulgence, the hotel's SUI Spa invites guests to be immersed in the restorative powers of volcanic hot springs in two private rooms. Expert therapists offer locally inspired therapeutic spa treatments using rare aromatic oils and herbs that were once transported on the ancient Silk Road. Inviting guests to explore the captivating tapestry of Nara's rich traditions and cultural heritage, the hotel's Destination Discovery program shows guests how to create hand-made ink stick rubbings on ink stones. This serene and contemplative activity not only evokes a deep sense of mindfulness, but also transports participants to a realm of tranquillity and inner harmony.

“Nara is one of Japan’s most popular travel destinations, and we are proud to reflect and showcase the history, culture and traditions of this destination for local and international visitors,” said Hiroyuki Hatori, General Manager, Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara. “We look forward to welcoming guests who seek a journey that is both transformative and unforgettable when they come to Nara.”