Hotel Sahara Star opens its doors again on 16th November 2020

Hotel Sahara Star has opened its doors again on 16th November 2020 with a motto ‘YOU ARE OUR ONLY CONCERN’, which ensures that enhanced cleanliness and safety measures are in place for its guests and associates.

The new measures include mandatory temperature checks for everyone entering the hotel at each entry point, frequent disinfection of all equipment, observing social distancing in all restaurants and public areas, and complimentary sanitizer and masks for guests and associates.

Beginning November 16th, the hotel’s much acclaimed Indian Specialty restaurant Namak will be open for dining along with Manuhaar – The Vegetarian Thali Restaurant and The Earthplate -Global Cuisine Restaurant. The impeccable food can now be enjoyed with a contactless menu and payment option at all food and beverage outlets of the hotel.

The hotel is extending a warm welcome to all its guests who are planning to host their next esteemed event whether it be a wedding, a corporate event, exhibition or any social gathering, Sahara Star would ensure a safe and memorable experience.

Park Inn by Radisson brand enters Saudi capital of Riyadh

Radisson Hotel Group has opened its ninth Park Inn by Radisson in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Park Inn by Radisson Riyadh is the latest addition to the region’s growing portfolio of lifestyle hotels.

Anchored by the brand’s ‘feel good’ philosophy, the property has a more relaxed design style than other hotels in the Radisson group. Located in the Al Malaz business district, the hotel features 192 modern rooms and suites, with social spaces connecting the facilities of the property.

Park Inn by Radisson Riyadh offers business guests access to four meeting rooms with high-speed Wi-Fi and audio-visual equipment.

Dining guests can choose from RBG or Bocca Bouna, serving local and international dishes respectively.

The group’s CEO, Federico J. González said earlier this year that KSA is one of the key markets where Radisson can spur its recovery.

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Exclusive look inside the new five-star Al Jaddaf Rotana hotel

Located in central Dubai, the Al Jaddaf district connects the old and new areas of the emirate, providing easy access to Dubai Festival City, Dubai Frame and Dubai Mall

The three-bedroom suite is currently the largest room a guest can choose

The Fern Hotels & Resorts to open 8 new Fern hotels

The Fern Hotels & Resorts is once again on an expansion spree and will be opening 8 new Fern hotels over the next four months, the CEO of the company, Suhail Kannampilly said.

Of these, 3 new hotels are opening in the state of Gujarat, at Kevadia (Statue of Unity), Junagadh and Jamnagar. A sea-fronted tented resort is opening in the union territory of Daman. And another resort opens in the mountainous beauty of Gangtok in Sikkim. Other new openings are in Thane (Mumbai), Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh) and Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh).

The expansion in Gujarat will propel the company as the largest organized hospitality player in the state, with presence in 18 cities.The total number of hotels in the state will increase to 21 hotels across Saurashtra, Kutch, south and north Gujarat, further consolidating the company’s position.

The other state which will witness a very healthy growth is Maharashtra, where the company will have a presence of 18 hotels in 10 cities.

The opening of these new hotels during these tough times reflects our confidence in the hospitality industry, Suhail said, adding, “it is also testimonial to the fact that as a group we are on a very strong footing”. Praising the team work behind the success, he said, “The team has been working very hard and are busy putting our foot print across all the geographies of the country”.

With these 8 new additions, Concept Hospitality Pvt Ltd will be managing 82 hotels & resorts with 4800+ rooms across 67 locations in India and internationally, under The Fern, The Fern Residency, The Zinc Hotels and Beacon Hotels brands.

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IHCL Announces The Opening Of The Connaught – A SeleQtions Hotel In New Delhi

The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), South Asia's largest hospitality company, announced the opening of The Connaught, New Delhi. The Connaught presents a unique and striking design, combining the art deco charm of Connaught Place and contemporary luxe interiors. Strategically situated in New Delhi's prime area, Lutyens, The Connaught will be a part of the SeleQtions brand - a named collection of hotels and resorts.

Exuding character at every corner, the hotel features 104 spaciously designed rooms conceptualized by the globally renowned Swedish designer, Christian Lundwall, of LWA. Located in the heart of the city, The Connaught is a perfect abode for business and leisure travellers.

The hotel's distinctive offerings include an all-day diner, The Hub, which takes guests on a gastronomical journey across global and local cuisines, whilst featuring some of Delhi's legendary favourites. The restaurant opens into an al-fresco dining venue, and also extends into a stylish cocktail bar that promises to be the city's most sought after watering hole. The Connaught has state-of-the-art spaces for business conferences or social gatherings, including a 2000 sq. ft. open air terrace.

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Lords Hotels and Resorts ventures in Belgaum

Lords Hotels and Resorts a leading mid-market hotel chain in 40 cities 11 states and 2 countries has expanded its presence in the sugar bowl of Karnataka – Belgaum officially known as Belagavi .

This is the third property of Lords in South India after Bangalore and Kurnool. The new property will be launched under the ‘Eco Inn’ branding and is expected to commence operations before the end of year.

The hotel is strategically located in in the prime area of Kolhapur Circle and in close proximity to the railway station and airport . It will offer forty-three well-appointed rooms, banquet hall, multi-cuisine restaurant and roof top bar.

Commenting on the development Pushpendra Bansal, Chief Operating Officer, Lords Hotels and Resorts said, “ We are glad to add our second hotel in the state of Karnataka and in this rich heritage city . We thank the hotel ownership for recognizing the advantages with Lords Brand.”

Vikas Suri, Senior. Associate Vice President of the group further added “ The hotel aims to promote business and tourism in the area and offer quality accommodation and services at best rates, we hope to ensure a pleasant stay for all our guests travelling to this region.”

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Sarovar Hotels and Resorts opens Geeta Sarovar Portico in Panipat

Sarovar Hotels and Resorts has announced the opening of Geeta Sarovar Portico in Panipat, marking the group’s foray into Haryana.

The hotel was launched in the presence of S.P Bansal, Owner, Geeta Sarovar Portico; Ajay Bakaya, Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts.

Spread across 4 acres of land, Geeta Sarovar Portico is an upscale and contemporary hotel offering well-appointed rooms including executive and presidential suites.

Savour a delightful meal at the hotel’s multi cuisine restaurant Flavours or go for Rooftop restaurant, Sky Lounge, where guests can enjoy quality dining under the stars. To reinforce that feeling of relaxation, Geeta Sarovar Portico also offers a rooftop swimming pool.

Managing Director of Sarovar Hotels & Resorts, Ajay Bakaya said, “Panipat is a growing city with significant business demand. Geeta Sarovar Portico is an important addition to our portfolio. We are delighted to mark our presence in this growing market and present Sarovar’s signature hospitality to our guests in the city”.

With its resplendent interior, the hotel offers the city’s biggest banquet and conferencing facility. The Imperial Banquet hall has an area of 11,000 sq. ft with a capacity of hosting very large gatherings and is perfect for weddings. The Crystal Banquet hall, spread in 3000 sq ft. is ideal for hosting social gathering and at Regal, one can host corporate and business events. The hotel also houses the biggest parking space of accommodating over 300 vehicles in a go.

Given its strategic location, away from city’s hustle and bustle, the hotel is ideal for business as well as highway travellers.

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Fenwick Shores, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Real Hospitality Group, Inc. (RHG) today announced the opening of Fenwick Island's first and only upscale hotel. The 65 guest room Fenwick Shores, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Little Assawoman Bay with sweeping views and beach access. The quaint island is home to some of the region's most pristine beaches and charming collection of shops and dining. Designed to celebrate the island's unique past, Fenwick Shores honors the local history of merchant ships and the tradition of extending hospitality to travelers with nautical details, textures and finishes that are woven into the guest experience. In keeping with the rich history of the island, interior designer Susan Kirkpatrick reached out to several local artisans and historians who were engaged to contribute. Town Historian Dale Clifton, and Winnie and Tracey Lewis provided detailed accounts that inspired the names of the lounges and event rooms.

The opening of this property marks the continued growth of RHG's portfolio which has added seven additional properties and more than 1,300 guest rooms in the past six months to its management portfolio.

Located beachfront on historic Fenwick Island, the hotel is two miles from Fenwick Island State Park and less than five minutes from the Discoversea Shipwreck Museum, the Fenwick Island Lighthouse and the Fenwick Boardwalk. The focal point of the hotel's public space is a custom crafted blown glass chandelier by artist Jeffery Auxer. The large guest rooms and suites are designed to accommodate families with kitchens, a sectional sleeper sofa and private balconies with ocean or bayside views.

For dining, Mooncussers offers fresh American dishes or guests may enjoy the more casual Shipwrecked, for poolside dining and signature cocktails. Resort amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, beachside lounge chairs, a fitness center and 24-hour market. Some 1,560 square feet of well-appointed event space provide a beautiful venue for events and small meetings.

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Marriott International Signs Agreement With Asset World Corporation To Bring Four World-Class Hotels To Thailand

Project expected to add 1,638 rooms under three global brands in Bangkok and Pattaya by 2027

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) today announced it has signed a milestone agreement with Asset World Corp Plc. (SET: AWC) to add four new landmark properties under three world-class brands across Bangkok and Pattaya, Thailand. The multi-property agreement features a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Thailand’s first JW Marriott Marquis hotel in Bangkok and two Autograph Collection hotels, set to debut the Autograph Collection brand in the country.

“We are pleased to strengthen our longstanding relationship with Asset World Corporation in this landmark signing,” said Craig S. Smith, Group President, Asia Pacific, Marriott International. “This agreement is a testament to the confidence owners and franchisees such as AWC have in Marriott International. We are excited to play a role in AWC’s vision of expanding its diverse portfolio of hospitality and lifestyle projects in Thailand.”

Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bangkok at Asiatique the Riverfront
Targeted to open by 2027 in Bangkok’s newly revamped Asiatique The Riverfront, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bangkok is expected to serve as a private, ultra-luxury boutique urban resort set on the scenic curve of the Chao Phraya River. With 124 meticulously designed guest rooms, the urban sanctuary will showcase the rich culture, history and heritage of Bangkok’s 19th Century maritime trade.

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Hyatt Announces Plans for First Property in Sweden with Hotel Reisen

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a franchise agreement with First Hotel Reisen AB to open the first Hyatt property in Sweden. Hotell Reisen is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment and will be available on Hyatt's booking system on an unbranded basis as of December 1, 2020 with plans to join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand in early 2021. In the Nordics, the hotel will join the planned Grand Hansa Hotel in Helsinki, Finland as part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt and Hyatt Centric Reykjavík in Reykjavik, Iceland. The three hotels represent strategic cornerstones in Hyatt’s expansion plans for Northern Europe.

Located in the heart of Stockholm’s old town directly on the waterfront and on Skeppsbron, Hotell Reisen is rich in history, dating back to the 17th century. The property will offer cultural moments for guests seeking a sophisticated yet unscripted experience, as it will be located within walking distance of many of Stockholm’s landmark attractions. Independent-minded travelers can experience highlights of the city including The Royal Palace and the ferry to Djurgården, bringing guests to the tranquil oasis that is home to many of the city’s most famous museums and cultural attractions.

At Hyatt, we are focused on thoughtful growth based on locations that matter most to our guests, World of Hyatt members and customers, and Stockholm has been a priority market for some time,” said Peter Norman, senior vice president of development Europe, Hyatt. “While Stockholm is known for its high barrier to entry for global brands, the rich history and unique location in central Stockholm make Hotell Reisen a perfect addition to The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand. This brand has seen great momentum across the region, as each property celebrates their destination’s distinct culture and atmosphere, and we look forward to expanding the brand’s footprint in the Nordics.”

The name of Reisen originates from a 1750’s coffee house run by a Dutchman, Frederik Reiss. As the coffee house was a popular meeting space for merchants and travelers from all over the world, Frederik Reiss’s daughter soon started to rent rooms in the early 19th century. Ever since, the building has been in use as a hotel and today is a celebration of the vibrant and rich history of Sweden’s capital.

“We are delighted to work alongside Hyatt for the first Hyatt hotel in Sweden,” said Anders Moe, CEO of Host AB which owns First Hotel Reisen AB. “In creating a destination that locals and guests from afar will treasure, Hotell Reisen will honor the history of the building and the city. The combination of our expertise in Sweden’s hospitality market and Hyatt’s international reputation will allow for our vision to come to life.”

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Park Inn By Radisson Gwalior Opens Its Doors To Guests

Park Inn by Radisson Gwalior opens today in the city of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The hotel provides an ideal stay for both leisure and business travelers visiting the city, best known for its ancient hilltop Gwalior fort.

The hotel is strategically located to provide easy access to tourist attractions such as the hill fort of Gwalior, Gopachal Parvat, Jai Vilas Palace, Tomb of Ghaus Mohammed, Madhav National Park and many others. Situated within five kilometres from the railway station and ten kilometres from the Gwalior airport, the hotel's location is perfect for guests visiting for leisure or business.

Spread over 450 square meters, the hotel's architecture is reminiscent of the city's erstwhile culture and style. It constitutes Superior and Deluxe category rooms. While Deluxe rooms offer a private terrace and remarkable view of the Gwalior Fort, Superior rooms offer a comfortable stay accompanied with free Wi-Fi connectivity and a mini fridge. The hotel features a state-of-the-art fitness centre with modern amenities.

Park Inn by Radisson Gwalior offers an exquisite range of dining options. RBG Bar & Grill, an all-day dining restaurant, features a vibrant atmosphere and a collection of contemporary gourmet delights. Remarkable chefs at RBG Bar & Grill offer a selection of global dishes on the à la carte menu as well as an expansive buffet that promises to delight guests through the day. The hotel's culinary expertise can be relished at the comfort of one's accommodation with 24-hour room service.

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Middle East’s first Hotel Indigo opens for business

Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown has officially opened for business, cementing itself as the region’s first Hotel Indigo property.

The brand is InterContinental Hotels Group’s (IHG) design-focused lifestyle offering, providing a stay centred on community and experience.

Hotelier Middle East has already checked out the hotel, where we admired the 200+ pieces of art found across the property.   

Designed in collaboration with the Alserkal Cultural Foundation, Tashkeel and XVA gallery, pieces come local artists as a celebration of Dubai’s arts scene. There are hand-painted feature walls, woven tapestry rugs, street graffiti art and various other finishing touches setting this hotel apart from others in the IHG portfolio.

The property comprises 269 rooms across 17 floors. Facilities include a ladies salon and a barber shop, two spa treatment rooms, a yoga studio and a gym with the option to book a personal trainer.

F&B venues include the Neighbourhood Café, a cocktail bar, a poolside bar and the Bakala Joos juice bar.

Leading the hotel is IHG’s first female general manager in the region, Laura Eggleton.

She sat down with Hotelier Middle East ahead of the opening, revealing her and her team had to jump a few hurdles to open during the pandemic. 

“We’ve had some complications along the way but we’re ready to go and we’re the first in the region, with some more in the way. It’s great to have a boutique brand that benefits from the infrastructure of a company like IHG.

“We’ve had to make adjustments [due to the pandemic] along the way and we have IHG’s Clean Promise in place. In the back of house we’ve had to make some changes with desk areas and the like, but front of house we’ve not had to change things too much.”

She added: “Our design is so special and unique that even though there’s healthy competition nearby, I’m sure Dubai will appreciate the design and the more relaxed informal service style. Hotel Indigo is the fastest growing boutique brand in the world. People have been in touch saying they’re excited for us to open. I’m confident this is the right time for us.”

Even before the hotel swung open doors this month, the Hotel Indigo brand was already gaining traction in the region. IHG has announced it will open Hotel Indigo Jabal Al Akhdar in Oman by 2022. 

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Hyatt Regency West Hanoi Opens in Vietnam

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced the opening of Hyatt Regency West Hanoi, the first Hyatt hotel in Hanoi and the third Hyatt hotel in Vietnam. Located in Nam Tu Liem district, Hanoi's new business district near major sporting and convention venues, Hyatt Regency West Hanoi offers 519 modern guestrooms where business travelers and leisure guests can enjoy seamless and relaxing experiences. Hyatt Regency West Hanoi, which has been rebranded from an existing hotel, has undergone an extensive renovation throughout all guestrooms, public areas, event and meeting spaces, and culinary venues, as well as a redesign of its tranquil landscaped garden.

Convenient Location

Hyatt Regency West Hanoi is situated a few minutes by car from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Convention Center, and various business districts home to global companies, making the property a convenient base for corporate guests. Also located directly next to My Dinh National Stadium and near the Formula One Grand Prix race track, the hotel is an ideal choice for visitors attending major sporting events in Hanoi. In addition, a soon-to-be-completed road will lead directly from the hotel to Ring Road 3, which will provide guests with easy access to the highway and make it easier to visit popular locations in northern Vietnam such as Sapa, Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay.

Refreshed Guestrooms

Spanning two towers, the hotel offers guests a bright, stylish urban retreat with 519 guestrooms, including 114 spacious suites and 129 long-stay rooms with kitchenettes and washing machines. The refreshed interiors feature a contemporary palette with natural wood and marble accents, coupled with modern facilities and floor-to-ceiling windows that allow in natural light and impressive views.

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Hyatt Announces Plans for First Hyatt Hotel in Cape Town

- Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with South African real estate company, Millat Properties, for the first Hyatt-branded hotel in Cape Town. Hyatt Regency Cape Town, a 137-room hotel, is expected to open in December 2020, bringing the total number of Hyatt-branded hotels across Africa to eight, with two in South Africa. Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with South African real estate company, Millat Properties, to open the first Hyatt hotel in Cape Town. Hyatt Regency Cape Town, a 137-room hotel, is expected to open in December 2020, bringing the total number of Hyatt hotels across Africa to eight, with two in South Africa. The new Hyatt Regency Cape Town will be rebranded from the former Hilton Cape Town City Centre.

Africa, and particularly Sub-Saharan Africa, remains a key focus for growth for Hyatt as the continent is experiencing an increasingly favorable business climate, along with consistently heightened tourism. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, international tourist arrivals in Sub-Saharan Africa grew around 6% per year, higher than the global average.[1] Cape Town, in particular, is an attractive destination for both business and leisure travelers alike, with more than five million visitors to Cape Town’s airport[2] each year. The coastal city, which is the second most populated city in South Africa, is an economic hub for business and innovation as well as an attractive destination for leisure travelers with its pristine beaches and lively culture.

“We’re delighted to work with Millat Properties to bring the Hyatt Regency brand to Cape Town,” said Ludwig Bouldoukian, regional vice president of development for the Middle East and Africa, Hyatt. “As a premier destination, Cape Town has been a top goal for us to have a Hyatt hotel, and we believe there is meaningful potential for further growth in South Africa. Hyatt Regency Cape Town is a key element of our strategy to grow thoughtfully in markets where we know our guests are traveling.”

Hyatt Regency Cape Town will bring the Hyatt Regency brand’s signature seamless, personalized service and energizing experiences to business and leisure guests alike. The hotel is situated at the foot of the iconic Table Mountain, one of Cape Town’s most prominent and famous tourist landmarks, bordering the historic Bo-Kaap district with its steep and narrow streets. The vibrant and colorful neighborhood is a popular area for tourists looking to experience South Africa’s rich, multicultural history.

“It is a delight to team up with the Hyatt Regency brand, who is synonymous with a first-class travel experience,” said Hamza Farooqui, chief executive officer of Millat Properties. "Millat will extensively refurbish the hotel – prior to reopening – using renowned international interior designers, LW Design. Knowing Hyatt and Millat share equally high standards around the guest experience, we are delighted to bring the Hyatt Regency brand to life in this iconic location.”

The hotel will feature 137 rooms, including 15 suites, three food and beverage outlets, as well as leisure facilities including a fitness area and an outdoor pool. For corporate guests, the property offers 1,312 square feet (400 square meters) of meeting space as well as an executive lounge.

“The news of a Hyatt-branded property opening within the City of Cape Town is a welcome addition to the tourism sector and is a positive indicator reflecting the travel industry’s road to recovery,” said Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, South African Minister for Tourism. Like many others in our country, Cape Town is truly unique, offering visitors unforgettable experiences with an abundance of natural beauty and attractions to visit. Hyatt Regency Cape Town will be the perfect addition to the hospitality sector in this historic city.” 

The announcement of Hyatt Regency Cape Town follows a significant expansion in Hyatt’s footprint in Sub-Saharan Africa, fueled by the Hyatt Regency brand. Three Hyatt Regency hotels are already open in the sub-Saharan region: Hyatt Regency Johannesburg, Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam and Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa with two more scheduled openings for the Hyatt Regency brand over the next three years: Hyatt Regency Nairobi, Kenya and Hyatt Regency Lagos Ikeja, Nigeria.

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Marriott International Announces the Opening of Buenos Aires Marriott Hotel

Marriott International announced today the long-awaited opening of the Buenos Aires Marriott Hotel. Previously operating as the Hotel Panamericano Buenos Aires, the property underwent an extensive conversion to meet Marriott's elevated quality standards. Located in the heart of the city, with convenient access to must-see attractions such as the Teatro Colón, the Obelisk and the Palace of Justice, the hotel is well positioned to become a favorite among business and leisure travelers visiting this South American destination.

"We are thrilled to work with Gotel Hotel Management and bring the Marriott Hotels brand back to Argentina after so many years," said Laurent de Kousemaeker, Marriott International Chief Development Officer, Caribbean and Latin America. "This opening marks the beginning of a new stage for Marriott International in this coveted destination where the European style is deeply intertwined with the Latin American culture."

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Ginger announces the signing of a new hotel in Zirakpur, Chandigarh

Ginger announces the signing of a new hotel in Zirakpur, Chandigarh. The hotel will be designed around the brand’s lean luxe philosophy of offering a vibrant, contemporary, and seamless hospitality experience to its guests. The hotel is a fully fitted lease.  

Commenting on the signing, Deepika Rao, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Ginger Hotels said, “We are delighted to partner with Silicon Constructions Pvt Ltd for this hotel. Zirakpur is a fast-growing city in the Chandigarh metropolitan region and Ginger, with its energizing new experience, is well poised to capture the growing demand of the city of Chandigarh.”

voco brand to go global with launch in China and US

InterContinental Hotels Group has confirmed it will launch its newest upscale hotel brand, voco, in the United States and Greater China.

The company created and launched the new flag a little over two years ago, focusing on conversion opportunities that combine the informality and charm of an independent hotel, with the quality and reassurance of a respected global brand.

Since then, a mix of 12 conversion and new-build voco hotels have opened across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Australia.

voco continues to generate strong interest from owners too, and with an uplift in conversion activity during the first half of 2020, its expansion into two large and fast-growing markets is a key milestone.

voco currently has a development pipeline of 28 properties will take it into 19 countries over the next five years, while it remains on track to open more than 200 hotels over the next ten years.

Fairmont Sanya Haitang Bay Resort to Open December 2020 in China

Accor announces its first Fairmont Resort in Greater China, in partnership with Hainan Keenwin Holdings. The newly refurbished Fairmont Sanya Haitang Bay is set to open in December 2020 following extensive renovations to the property.

Fairmont Sanya Haitang Bay is situated along the beautiful golden coastline of Haitang Bay. With views towards the diver's paradise of Wuzhizhou Island and Yajia Daling Mountains, the resort has the best Feng Shui to bring harmony between travellers and nature.

Fairmont Sanya Haitang Bay features a team of star designers and architects, which includes world-renowned interior designer Nick Winai Suansalee from Leo Design Group as well as landscape architecture by Francis Leung, the former Design Director of Belt Collins. The resort has the formal symmetry often found in imperial palaces, and offers a number of exquisite architectural gems that are destinations in their own right. In accordance with ancient Chinese architectural principles, a pair of Watchtowers forms the portal to the resort. Covered Lounge Bridges made from stone arches act as pathways to the lobby pavilion, providing rest, shelter and vistas of intricate cornices against the green surrounds. Within the lobby, precious detailed wood carvings on walls and ceiling friezes took more than two years to complete and demonstrate a sense of grandeur and profoundness. Its unique 1,200-meter long river is the world's first sea water canal running within a hotel. Guests can take a dragon boat ride to reach guestrooms and all other hotel facilities whilst enjoying the ever-changing scenery and amazing landscapes. For those who wish to learn more about the resort's relics, the Wood Art Gallery is a courtyard house boasting fine furnishings and artefacts from both the Ming Dynasty and Qing Dynasty.

Fairmont Port Douglas Hotel to Open in Far North Queensland in 2023

Accor will bring the Fairmont brand to Australia for the first time, with the announcement that the Fairmont Port Douglas is set to open in Far North Queensland in 2023.  Set on the edge of two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest - the hotel has been sustainably designed to give back to the environment.
 
“We are excited to bring the extraordinary Fairmont brand to Australia and are confident that Fairmont Port Douglas will deliver a new level of luxury and sophistication to one of the country’s most glamourous resort towns,” said Simon McGrath, Chief Operating Officer, Accor Pacific. “Accor continues to expand its luxury offerings in Australia and, as our first Fairmont, this is going to be a truly special resort, whose architecture mimics the rich biosphere of the Daintree Rainforest and, which is centred on well-being, nature and cultural immersion.”
 
Fairmont Port Douglas will boast 253 glamorous rooms, several restaurants and bars, a decadent day spa, a treetop walk and panoramic conference and wedding facilities, all designed around resort-style pools and built to blend seamlessly with nature. From the organic architecture to copious green spaces and natural light, the resort brings nature close, with butterfly nets above the children’s swimming pool, an intimate lobby inspired by birds’ nests and verdant tropical gardens.

Courtyard by Marriott Penang takes brand into Malaysia

Marriott has announced the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Penang – the first Courtyard property to debut in Malaysia.

Located along the bustling Jalan Macalister in the heart of Penang’s UNESCO-listed George Town, the new 199-room Courtyard by Marriott Penang is set to provide the best hotel experience for guests to pursue their personal and professional passions while on the road.

“We are thrilled to continue to grow our presence in Malaysia with the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Penang,” said Rajeev Menon, president, Asia Pacific, Marriott International.

“Designed for today’s ambitious and enterprising traveller, the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Penang marks Marriott International’s 17th brand in Malaysia and further compliments our growing footprint in the country.”