Essentia Group Expands Footprint in Andhra Pradesh with the Launch of Essentia Residency Tirupati

Contemporary residential-style hospitality arrives in one of India’s leading pilgrimage destinations

 Bengaluru, 2026: Essentia Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Essentia Residency Tirupati, marking the group’s entry into Andhra Pradesh and strengthening its presence in India’s fast-growing pilgrimage and leisure hospitality market.

Located in Ramachandra Nagar, Mangalam, Tirupati, Essentia Residency has been designed to address the evolving accommodation needs of pilgrims, families, leisure travellers and extended-stay guests. The property combines contemporary design with spacious, residential-style accommodation and Essentia’s signature approach to personalised hospitality.

The property offers Deluxe Rooms, 1-Bedroom Residences, 2-Bedroom Residences and 3-Bedroom Residences, providing accommodation options for individual travellers, couples and larger families. The residences feature dedicated living spaces and practical layouts, offering guests greater flexibility and privacy during their stay.

Commenting on the launch, Mohammed Parvez, CEO, Essentia Hotels & Resorts, said:

“Tirupati is a place of deep devotion, but a meaningful journey also requires restful comfort. We created Essentia Residency to give guests a peaceful home to return to after their sacred visits — a space where warm hospitality meets genuine comfort and where families can feel cared for, restored and truly at ease.”

Positioned for Tirupati’s growing visitor economy

Tirupati’s importance as a major pilgrimage destination, coupled with its growing connectivity and tourism infrastructure, makes it a strategic market for Essentia Hotels & Resorts.

The property provides convenient access to key transportation hubs, including Tirupati International Airport, Tirupati Railway Station and the APSRTC Bus Stand, while offering connectivity to prominent religious and tourist attractions such as the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala, Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple at Tiruchanoor, Sri Kapileswaraswamy Temple at Kapilatheertham, Srikalahasti Temple and Talakona Waterfalls..

The accommodation has been planned around the needs of today's travellers. Deluxe Rooms cater to solo travellers and couples, while the 1-Bedroom Residences offer additional space with dedicated living areas. The 2-Bedroom Residences provide families with a combination of shared and private spaces, while the spacious 3-Bedroom Residences can accommodate up to six guests.

Premium furnishings, warm interiors and functional layouts are complemented by Essentia’s emphasis on attentive and personalized service, creating a stay experience designed for both short pilgrimage visits and longer family stays.

Essentia's expansion beyond metropolitan markets

The launch of Essentia Residency Tirupati is part of Essentia Hotels & Resorts’ broader expansion strategy, with a particular focus on Tier II and Tier III cities and emerging tourism destinations across India.

Established in 2018 under the aegis of Aaverina Hospitality Private Limited and headquartered in Bengaluru, Essentia Hotels & Resorts is a contemporary Indian hospitality company built around its “Affordable Luxury” philosophy, combining thoughtful design, sincere service and genuine human connections.

Under the leadership of CEO Mr. Mohammed Parvez, Essentia Hotels & Resorts is accelerating its expansion across India’s emerging hospitality markets, with a strategic focus on prominent destinations, supported by the strategic direction of Chairman Mr. Xavier Furtado and Managing Director Ms. Savita Da Silva.

The group’s portfolio includes Essentia Luxury Hotel Indore, Essentia Premier Hotel Pune, Essentia Premier Hotel Chennai, Essentia Luxury Hotel & Convention Nagpur and Essentia Luxury Resort & Spa Udaipur, alongside a growing development pipeline across markets including Tirupati, Wayanad, Gujarat, Indore and Bhopal.

The expansion into Tirupati reflects Essentia’s strategy of identifying high-potential destinations where growing pilgrimage, leisure and business travel is driving demand for quality accommodation.

With the launch of Essentia Residency Tirupati, the group adds a residential-style hospitality offering to the city’s accommodation landscape, combining contemporary comfort, flexible living spaces and personalized Indian hospitality for travellers visiting one of the country’s most important spiritual destinations.

ibis Styles Mysuru Marks Its Second Anniversary by Exploring the Lesser-Known Side of Mysuru

The August anniversary celebration brought together the cycling community to discover a lesser-explored side of Mysuru.

Mysuru, - ibis Styles Mysuru marked its second anniversary in August with “Pedal in Style”, a cycling experience organised in collaboration with Cyclopedia, a premium cycling store based in Mysuru with strong ties to the city’s cycling community. The celebration brought together cycling enthusiasts for a morning of exploration, community and a more sustainable way to experience the city.

The ride began at ibis Styles Mysuru and took the cyclists towards Ranganathittu before continuing to Karighatta near Srirangapatna. Ranganathittu holds a deep connection with ibis Styles Mysuru, with the bird sanctuary serving as the inspiration for the hotel’s design, visual identity and overall character. The route then led the cyclists up Karighatta and its hilltop temple, bringing together scenic surroundings, a physical challenge and the opportunity to discover places beyond Mysuru’s familiar landmarks.

While Mysuru is widely known for the Mysuru Palace and its royal heritage, “Pedal in Style” highlighted another side of the destination, with quieter roads, natural landscapes and lesser-explored places. Exploring by bicycle also offered a more sustainable way to discover the city, reducing reliance on motorised transport while allowing participants to experience the surroundings more closely.

The cyclists returned to ibis Styles Mysuru, where the team thanked the participants and invited them to share their experiences from the ride. The morning concluded with giveaways and breakfast hosted for the group, bringing the cycling community together to celebrate the hotel’s second anniversary.

Speaking on the occasion, Manali Gupta, Cluster General Manager, Grand Mercure Mysore & ibis Styles Mysuru, said, “Our second anniversary was an opportunity to celebrate our journey in Mysuru while discovering more of the city we call home. With Ranganathittu being an important part of our identity, taking the cycling community through the sanctuary and onwards to Karighatta made the celebration especially meaningful. It was wonderful to see our anniversary become a shared experience with the local community, while also encouraging a more sustainable way to explore the destination.”

Lokesh Narasimhachar and Fariyal Jamadar, Founders of Cyclopedia, said, “We were happy to partner with ibis Styles Mysuru for this celebration and bring the cycling community together. The route offered a wonderful way to experience some of Mysuru’s lesser-known roads and destinations, making the morning about cycling, exploration and community.”

Through “Pedal in Style”, ibis Styles Mysuru celebrated its second anniversary by bringing together the hotel’s connection with Ranganathittu, the local cycling community and the lesser-known side of Mysuru, while highlighting cycling as a more sustainable way to experience the destination.

Grand Hyatt Cancun Beach Resort to Debut a Fully All-Inclusive Experience Inspired by the Brand’s Signature Spirit of Grand Hospitality

The 500-room beachfront resort is set to open in December and will mark the first Grand Hyatt hotel in Cancun and invite guests to fully immerse themselves in Puerto Cancun – one of the destination’s most anticipated new landmarks

CHICAGO (, 2026) – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced that Grand Hyatt Cancun Beach Resort is expected to open in December as an all-inclusive property and will mark the Grand Hyatt brand’s highly anticipated debut in Cancun.

Its premium experience will be shaped by the distinctive Grand Hyatt spirit, where exceptional service, elevated culinary and wellness offerings, and sophisticated meeting space for connection come together to create memorable stays, while building on Hyatt’s leadership in the all-inclusive space and its ability to shape every aspect of service and the guest experience through a resort lens.

“Grand Hyatt Cancun Beach Resort will offer guests the opportunity to experience the destination through a fully all-inclusive experience defined by best-in-class accommodations and exceptional hospitality,” said Omar Vázquez, General Manager, Grand Hyatt Cancun Beach Resort. “Guests can immerse themselves in Puerto Cancun, with its vibrant marina, white-sand beaches and privileged location, while enjoying beautifully designed rooms and suites alongside the culinary, wellness and entertainment experiences they expect from a Hyatt resort. Every detail will be thoughtfully curated through the Grand Hyatt lens and commitment to creating elevated stays that feel both effortless and unforgettable.”

Owned by Grupo Diestra, Grand Hyatt Cancun Beach Resort will bring the Grand Hyatt brand’s ‘destination within a destination’ approach to life through its prime location in the heart of Puerto Cancun, a private, gated community and one of Mexico’s most ambitious waterfront developments. The resort will serve as a landmark property within the destination giving guests direct access to a marina, close proximity to a world-class golf course, and a range of premium shopping and dining experiences – all within easy reach of Cancun’s renowned attractions and Hotel Zone, and approximately 25 minutes from its international airport.

Oceanfront Accommodations in Puerto Cancun

The resort’s 500 guestrooms, including 47 suites, will feature a private terrace with ocean or marina views and are designed to draw inspiration from the natural surroundings and local culture, pairing a contemporary aesthetic with open-air spaces and an effortless connection between indoor and outdoor living.

Select suites will feature private pools, while Grand Club rooms will offer access to the Grand Club, a premium offering from the Grand Hyatt brand. The premiere private lounge with continental breakfast, afternoon cocktails, and other exclusive experiences. Guestrooms will be thoughtfully appointed with modern comforts designed to support a seamless and comfortable stay.

At the resort’s entrance, guests will encounter an installation by renowned artist Teresa Solar, while tiles designed by acclaimed Mexican artist and designer María Pizarro feature throughout the property. Together, these artistic elements reflect the resort’s close connection to its destination and reinforce its strong sense of place.

A Grand World of Culinary Experiences

Grand Hyatt Cancun Beach Resort will feature 14 food and beverage outlets, bringing the breadth of choice guests expect from an elevated all-inclusive resort while reflecting the Grand Hyatt brand’s longstanding reputation for international culinary excellence. The lineup will include Quattro, a Northern Italian restaurant; Fiera San, a sushi and omakase concept; Kaab, offering international breakfast, buffet and lunch experiences; Bistrot Cigalette, a French restaurant by chef Thierry Blouet; and Chacho and Los Fuegos del Sur, featuring Argentine and Uruguayan-inspired cuisine.

Additional concepts will include Mona Limona, Leonora’s Boulevardier Bar & Terraza, Saká pool bar, Grand Café & Market, Fiera Tacos and Paradiso, offering street food, snacks and grilled favorites. Together, the venues will give guests the freedom to move from relaxed daytime dining and poolside refreshments to refined cuisine, cocktails and globally inspired experiences.

Spa Serenity Meets Beach Club Energy

The resort’s Ritua Sanctuary Spa will serve as the serene centerpiece for wellbeing, offering a holistic approach inspired by local traditions. Guests will unwind in tranquil outdoor relaxation areas, experience a traditional temazcal, and visit the fully equipped fitness center and hammock lounges. The spa will also introduce an innovative menu of treatments designed to bring new wellness experiences to Cancun’s all-inclusive landscape.

Wellbeing extends to the water, with nine multi-level outdoor pools, including an adults-only pool, an infinity pool and a pool at the Beach Club. The private Beach Club will pair laid-back beachfront energy with its own pool and restaurant, as well as a range of aquatic activities including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, windsurfing and paddleboarding.

Guests can arrange yacht and sailing experiences from the nearby marina, while personalized excursions offer access to coral reefs, cenotes and archaeological sites. Additional family-friendly amenities include a dedicated Grand Kids Club.

Spaces for Grand Gatherings

Grand Hyatt Cancun Beach Resort will bring the Grand Hyatt brand’s iconic meetings and events experience to the destination, offering approximately 30,000 square feet of flexible indoor event space on a single level, complemented by a range of terraces, beach venues and poolside settings. The thoughtfully designed facilities will feature a Great Ballroom dividable into eight sections, two breakout rooms, and a boardroom, creating a sophisticated and seamless setting for everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations and signature events.

From its location in Puerto Cancun to its fully all-inclusive approach, Grand Hyatt Cancun Beach Resort will bring together the ease of an effortless, elevated resort stay with the spirit, sophistication and sense of discovery that define Grand Hyatt.

From a Love for Cooking to Building Thai Naam, Chef Jawairia Merchant's Journey

From discovering a love for cooking early on to building restaurants with a clear point of view, a new generation of young culinary entrepreneurs is finding its place in India’s dining scene. Jawairia Merchant, Founder of Thai Naam, is one such voice, building a restaurant around her love for Thai cuisine and the traditions that make it distinct.”

For Jawairia Merchant, the journey into food began long before Thai Naam. As a child, she found herself drawn to the kitchen, experimenting with cooking and taking part in competitions. What began as curiosity gradually became something she wanted to pursue more seriously. By the time she was in the 11th standard, she had started training with chefs, taking her first steps towards understanding the craft beyond her own experiments at home.

Today, that early interest has grown into Thai Naam, a restaurant in Mumbai shaped by Jawairia’s interest in Thai cuisine and her desire to introduce diners to its flavours and traditions. Building the restaurant has also meant learning the many sides of running a food business, from the kitchen and the menu to the details that shape a guest’s experience. Her father, Anis Merchant, has been closely involved in the venture, helping bring the restaurant’s vision and interiors to life.

For Jawairia, the idea has never been simply to serve Thai food. It is about giving diners a sense of the cuisine and the culture behind it, while making them feel at home at the table. That thinking carries through Thai Naam’s approach to its food, its setting and its hospitality. “I started cooking because I genuinely enjoyed it, and over time, I realised that I wanted to build something around that love for food. With Thai Naam, I want people to experience Thai cuisine for what it is, understand its flavours and traditions, and feel welcome when they walk in. I’m still learning every day, and I think that is an important part of being in this industry. You have to stay curious, listen to people and keep finding ways to do better,” says Jawairia Merchant, Founder of Thai Naam.

Her journey also reflects how the idea of being a chef today can extend beyond the kitchen. For many young culinary entrepreneurs, the work involves shaping a restaurant’s identity, building a team, understanding what diners connect with and staying true to the food they want to put on the table. The challenge is not only to create a memorable meal, but to build a place that people want to return to. Jawairia’s work with Thai Naam has received recognition through multiple Times Food & Nightlife Awards for the restaurant. She has also been recognised as an ET F&B Leader and an ET Inspiring Women Leader for Global Culinary Experiences and was named Chef of the Year at the Times Food & Nightlife Awards 2026.

This International Chefs Day, her story offers a look at the journey behind a restaurant: the early curiosity, the learning that continues long after the first dish is served, and the decisions that turn a love for food into something of one’s own. For young chefs and restaurateurs like Jawairia, the journey is still unfolding, one service, one dish and one guest at a time.

Royal China Bengaluru Marks Its First Anniversary with a Year of Culinary Success

Twelve months, countless celebrations and a growing list of familiar faces later, Royal China Bengaluru has made its mark on the city.

Mumbai, 15th October, 2026: One year, with countless tables gaining popularity, Royal China Bengaluru marks its first anniversary as one of the city’s most talked-about dining addresses. In just twelve months, its distinctive Cantonese offering has drawn a discerning clientele, including celebrities, prominent personalities and Bengaluru’s most recognisable names. From leisurely lunches and intimate dinners to high-profile celebrations and late-evening gatherings, Royal China has become a sought-after address where exceptional food and the city’s social scene come together.

For Bengaluru’s discerning dining crowd, Royal China has brought a distinctive new flavour to the city’s culinary scene. Its delectable Cantonese menu has won over diners with its depth of flavour with delicate craftsmanship and indulgent signatures. The Royal China Prawn Dumplings (Har Gau), Crispy Aromatic Duck with Pancakes, Lobster in Black Pepper Sauce and Chocolate Dim Sum have emerged as enduring favourites, giving the city plenty to savour and return for. 

“Royal China’s first year in Bengaluru has exceeded our expectations. To see our distinctive approach to Cantonese dining resonate so strongly with the city has been immensely rewarding. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on evolving our culinary offering and creating experiences that keep our guests coming back,” says Faiz Rizwan, Executive Director of Prestige Group and the Head of Royal China Bengaluru. 

The interiors make a statement of their own, drawing inspiration from the mythical phoenix through soaring walls, sculptural chandeliers and fluid ceiling forms. Rich gold, amber and deep blue tones give the space a dramatic, regal character. 

“Royal China was envisioned as a space where the food, ambience and art of entertaining come together seamlessly. Seeing guests embrace that experience, return for it and make the restaurant their own has been one of the highlights of our first year in Bengaluru,” says Fajr Qureishi, Co-Founder, Royal China.  

The first year of Royal China Bengaluru has been one of discovery, recognition and a growing appetite for what the restaurant does next. What began as the arrival of a celebrated Cantonese name has, in twelve months, become a dining address with its own following, its own rhythm and its own place in Bengaluru’s social landscape. As Royal China looks to the year ahead, it continues to experiment with flavours, explore new culinary possibilities and create experiences that give its growing audience yet another reason to come back.

Encalm Hospitality Unveils Lounges and Meet & Assist Services at Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport

National, 2026: Encalm Hospitality, a leader in redefining the way guests experience air travel, has announced the expansion of its award winning hospitality services to Vizag International Airport. Encalm will bring together its lounges and guest services across multiple passenger touchpoints. This marks another step in the company’s commitment to addressing the evolving needs of guests through thoughtfully designed and connected experiences across the airport journey.

As India’s aviation landscape continues to evolve, travellers increasingly expect airports to deliver more than connectivity. They seek experiences defined by convenience, comfort and personalised service throughout their journey. At Vizag, Encalm will offer two lounges with live food counters, a bar, lounge bay and private dining room, one each for domestic and international travellers, along with Atithya Meet & Assist services and an EnWrap baggage-wrapping facility. Together, these offerings will support guests across key moments of their airport journey, from arrival and assistance to relaxation and departure.

Speaking on the announcement, Vikas Sharma, Group Chief Executive Officer, Encalm, said, “We are excited to bring Encalm’s established ecosystem of Airport Hospitality Services to Vizag International Airport. Our focus has always been on bringing excellence in hospitality to travellers and making their time at the airport more comfortable and convenient. We look forward to extending the Encalm experience to guests at Vizag and contributing to the airport’s passenger experience.”

Pooja Bhondekar, Business Head – Airport Hospitality, Encalm, added, “We are pleased to bring our established guest-focused approach to Vizag International Airport. Through our lounges, Atithya Meet & Assist and EnWrap services, we aim to support guests across different stages of their journey. Each offering has been designed to complement the others and make the overall airport experience more convenient, comfortable and responsive to guests’ needs.”

Encalm’s presence at Vizag reflects the company’s continued commitment to strengthening its airport network alongside India’s growing aviation sector. By bringing together thoughtfully curated services and a guest-first approach, the brand continues to make airport journeys more seamless, comfortable and memorable for travellers.

Aurelis Fragrance and Khazana by Taj Hotels Announce Strategic Partnership

Aurrelis to introduce its premium Extrait de Parfum collections across select Khazana locations in India

Mumbai, , 2026: Aurrelis, the flagship luxury fragrance brand of Aurelis Fragrance Pvt. Ltd., has announced a strategic partnership with Khazana by Taj Hotels, marking a key milestone in its journey to build a globally admired Indian luxury fragrance house.

Through this collaboration, Aurrelis will retail more than 15 SKUs, including perfumes and bath & body collections, and a specially curated selection of its Extrait de Parfum collections across select Khazana stores, including Taj Mahal Palace (Mumbai), Taj Palace (New Delhi), Taj Falaknuma Palace (Hyderabad), Taj Bengal (Kolkata), and Taj Exotica Resort & Spa (Andamans). The rollout will feature the Signature, Royal, and Mafia collections, along with select limited-edition creations.

“This partnership with Khazana by Taj Hotels is a defining milestone for Aurrelis. As a homegrown brand, it is meaningful to collaborate with an institution as iconic as IHCL. We remain focused on building Aurrelis through strategic partnerships aligned with our vision of creating a globally respected Indian luxury fragrance house rooted in craftsmanship, innovation, and quality,” said Sourjya Mohanty, Founder, Aurelis Fragrance Pvt. Ltd.

Founded in 2025 by Sourjya Mohanty, CFA and a trained perfumer from SDA Bocconi, Italy, Aurelis Fragrance Pvt. Ltd. aims to advance the niche fragrance segment in India through its brands Aurrelis, Slayd, and Taahara. Its integrated capabilities spanning fragrance creation to finished products enable strong control over quality, innovation, and consumer experience.

As Aurelis Fragrance Pvt. Ltd continues to expand, the partnership with Khazana will strengthen the brand’s ability to engage luxury consumers within premium retail environments while showcasing the growing sophistication and global potential of Indian fragrance craftsmanship. The brand also views the partnership as an opportunity to deepen consumer engagement through curated fragrance discovery, luxury gifting, and elevated retail experiences over time.

Biryani Bees Raises USD 1 Million from Vivek Oberoi Family Office

The investment will be used to accelerate its expansion across India’s Tier 2 markets.

 ·       The investment will be used to expand the brand from its current 3 outlets in UP to 10 outlets across UP, MP & other high potential Tier 2 markets, laying the foundation for a larger national expansion.

 ·       The funding will initially focus on expanding Biryani Bees to 10 outlets, strengthening its central kitchen infrastructure, building its operating team & establishing a repeatable expansion playbook across Tier 2 markets.

 Dubai, 2026: Biryani Bees, a fast-growing biryani and Indian meals brand incubated by Wolfpack Labs, has raised USD 1 million in funding from the Vivek Oberoi Family Office to accelerate its expansion across India’s Tier 2 markets.

The investment will be used to expand the brand from its current three outlets in Uttar Pradesh (UP) to 10 outlets across Uttar Pradesh (UP), Madhya Pradesh (MP) and other high potential Tier 2 markets, laying the foundation for a larger national expansion.

Vivek Oberoi said:

“What attracted us to Biryani Bees is not just the love for the product, but the business model behind it. India’s next wave of consumption is going to come from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and we believe there is a massive opportunity to build high quality, standardised and affordable food brands for these consumers. Biryani Bees has the potential to become to Indian food what McDonald’s became to QSR: consistent, accessible and trusted. We are excited to partner with Nitin and the team as they take the brand to its next phase of growth.”

The investment will enable Biryani Bees to take this proven model into new markets while strengthening the brand and operating infrastructure required to scale across multiple states.

The funding will initially focus on expanding Biryani Bees to 10 outlets, strengthening its central kitchen infrastructure, building its operating team and establishing a repeatable expansion playbook across Tier 2 markets.

Prerna Gupta, Co-Founder, Wolfpack Labs, said:

“From the beginning, we wanted Biryani Bees to look and feel like a national brand, not a local biryani business. We built the visual identity, packaging and brand world with the ambition of making Biryani Bees feel as polished, recognisable and aspirational as the global QSR brands people already know and trust. The opportunity now is to take that brand equity and pair it with a highly efficient operating model to build something truly national.”

Nitin Tiwari, Founder, Biryani Bees, said:

“We started Biryani Bees with a very simple belief: consumers in India’s Tier 2 cities deserve food brands that offer the same consistency, quality and experience they expect from the best national chains, but at a price that works for an everyday meal. This investment gives us the opportunity to take what we have built in Uttar Pradesh and replicate it across markets. Our immediate goal is to reach 10 outlets, prove the model at scale and then build Biryani Bees into India’s most trusted everyday biryani and meals brand.”

Once the company reaches this milestone and demonstrates the scalability of its model across multiple states, Biryani Bees expects to be positioned for a larger institutional funding round focused on national expansion and establishing a dominant presence across India’s Tier 2 markets.

The company’s long-term ambition is to create a national network of highly efficient outlets serving high quality, standardised and affordable daily meals, while building a brand that consumers can trust regardless of which city they live in.

From three outlets in Uttar Pradesh (UP) to a national Tier 2 food network, Biryani Bees is building for scale.

Standardise the Invisible. Localise the Visible

Vikram Lalvani outlines Sterling's blueprint for the next generation of hospitality brands At FHRAI's 56th Annual Convention.

Varanasi,  2026: The hospitality brands that endure will not be those with the most hotels—they will be those that build the strongest destination ecosystems.

Speaking at the 56th Annual Convention of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) in Varanasi, Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, presented a simple but powerful philosophy for scaling hospitality without losing authenticity:

"Standardise the invisible. Localise the visible."

Set against the backdrop of Varanasi—where spirituality, heritage, cuisine and culture are inseparable from hospitality—the conversation explored how India's next generation of brands can combine operational consistency with deeply local experiences.

Building a Scaled Leisure Hospitality Company

For Sterling, this philosophy reflects more than brand thinking—it reflects the company's own transformation.

Once primarily associated with vacation ownership, Sterling has evolved into a scaled, leisure-led hospitality company, expanding across established holiday destinations, emerging leisure markets and cities where leisure intersects with business and other travel occasions.

" We are building Sterling into a scaled hospitality ecosystem—one that spans destinations, travel occasions and experiences, and serves the Indian traveller wherever and however they choose to travel.   We are proud to be part of the Fairfax family,  our growth is sustained by the strength of our own business. The balance sheet we have built has been earned through years of disciplined strategy, operational execution and prudent financial management."

Lalvani emphasised that growth is no longer about adding more dots on the map.

"Our objective is to broaden the occasions on which guests choose Sterling."

That philosophy explains Sterling's expansion into destinations such as Dehradun, Karwar, Mohali, Madurai and Bokaro, while simultaneously identifying emerging leisure markets including Sattal and Jagdalpur.

Becoming Destination Architects

Lalvani argued that Sterling's competitive advantage lies in recognising destinations long before they become obvious hospitality markets.

The company's early presence in destinations such as Ooty and Darjeeling amongst many other popular destinations today, combined with its continued expansion into newer locations, reflects an approach that evaluates long-term destination potential rather than simply following established hotel markets.

"We tend to enter destinations where others hesitate to enter. We are not simply expanding hotels—we are helping expand destination ecosystems."

This philosophy positions Sterling not merely as an operator of hotels and resorts, but as a destination architect—building networks of experiences that encourage travellers to discover India more meaningfully.

The Future of Brand Equity

According to Lalvani, hospitality brands increasingly need to think beyond individual properties.

"A hotel or resort is like the road. The destination is the content."

Rather than treating cuisine, wellness, nature, heritage and culture as add-ons, Sterling believes these experiences should become defined products that create richer journeys across its growing network.

The principle is straightforward:

• Standardise the invisible—operating processes, safety, hygiene, service standards, revenue management and quality controls.

• Localise the visible—architecture, cuisine, storytelling and experiences that preserve each destination's character.

Technology as the Orchestration Layer

Lalvani described technology—particularly Artificial Intelligence—not as a replacement for hospitality, but as the invisible engine that enables better hospitality at scale.

Sterling is already deploying AI across backend functions, including AI-assisted income audits that identify operational exceptions, while expanding its use of connected data and decision intelligence to better understand guest intent and personalise experiences.

"AI should manage complexity so that people can focus on judgement. The stronger the invisible machinery becomes, the more meaningful the guest experience becomes."

Sterling's Next Chapter

Lalvani concluded that Sterling's future lies in bringing together four capabilities that reinforce one another:

• A trusted national brand

• A growing network of differentiated destinations

• Productised local experiences

• Technology-enabled operating excellence

"Standardise the invisible. Localise the visible. Create meaningful journeys, and use technology as the orchestration layer that scales them. That is how hospitality brands build lasting differentiation."

Momoka Brings The Spirit Of a Japanese ‘Kissaten’ To Pune

PUNE, 2026: Shaping a distinctive part of Japanese dining culture, Kissatens have long existed in Japan as neighbourhood cafés centred around coffee, tea, small meals and a sense of familiarity. Inspired by this philosophy, Momoka arrives in Pune as a Japanese kissaten-inspired venue where food, desserts, coffee, tea and atmosphere come together as one cohesive experience. 

Founded by Chef Brainard Colaco, Momoka draws from the culture of traditional Japanese cafés while exploring Yoshoku cuisine, a culinary tradition that blends Western techniques with Japanese ingredients and flavours. Through this contemporary lens, the brand offers guests a soulful and comforting side of Japan that feels both authentic and approachable. 

At the heart of Momoka is a menu inspired by Chef Brainard's travels across Japan and his fascination with everyday food culture, particularly the dishes found in Kissatens and Konbinis. Reinterpreting Japanese convenience store favourites and café staples through the Yoshoku style of cooking, the menu features handcrafted Sandos made with Momoka's in-house shokupan (Japanese milk bread), including Cottage Cheese, Miso Mushroom Korokke, Chicken Katsu, 7/11 Egg Salad, Oyako, Chicken Nanban and Ebi Katsu. Guests can also enjoy comforting Udon Bowls such as Katsu Curry Udon, Phad Krapao, Crab & Prawn Udon, Naporitan Udon and Edamame & Goma Udon, alongside Yoshoku signatures including Okonomiyaki, fresh Sarada and the restaurant's signature Risoni, a unique take on the classic rice-shaped pasta, replacing traditional Japanese rice to create a dish unlike anything else in India. The menu is further complemented by Tokyo Toasties, Croissants and Cro-Burgs, a classic croissant dough, reimagined and baked into a buttery, flaky burger bun with Japanese-inspired fillings, along with a signature dessert bar showcasing Kuro Mori, Liam's Teddy Bear, Pebu, KOKO and the iconic Shibuya Honey Toast and Mochi Brownie & Matcha Fudge Brownie.

Complementing the food is a thoughtfully curated beverage programme that celebrates the artistry of Japanese café culture. Featuring ceremonial-grade Matcha sourced from Uji alongside Hojicha, Neri Goma (black sesame) and Ube (purple yam) based creations, the handcrafted beverage collection includes Kumo Ube, Dirty Cookie Latte, Ispahan Matcha, Hokkaido Matcha Cheesecake, Peach Yakult, Iced Coffee Jelly Latte, Okinawa Breeze, Sencha Tea, Hojichagato, Coconut Foam Cold Brew and Sparkling Yuzu Matcha Soda. 

Extending the experience beyond the café, guests can also take home Momoka's thoughtfully curated retail offerings, including Artisanal Cookies in a variety of flavours, Shibuya Kurutons made with the brand's signature shokupan, Shiroi Koibito Cookies filled with ceremonial-grade matcha and white chocolate, and Momoka's signature Nama Chocolates available in Hazelnut and 70% Dark Chocolate. 

Speaking about the launch, Chef Brainard Colaco says, "Momoka has always been about sharing a more everyday side of Japan ,the warmth of a modern kissaten, comforting food and desserts, and flavours that feel familiar yet exciting. With our new flagship on Prabhat Road, we wanted to create a space where guests can experience Japan through soulful food, a dessert bar like no other and thoughtfully crafted beverages." 

Located on Prabhat Road, Momoka welcomes guests from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, offering Pune a destination that brings together the comforting flavours, café culture and everyday charm of Japan under one roof. 

EuMo Announces Visitor Experience Centre Services to Deliver Immersive High-Impact Narrative Spaces for Indian Firms

The Mumbai-based design intelligence firm integrates spatial storytelling, technology and behavioural design.

Mumbai,  2026: EuMo DesignIntelligence, India’s leading integrated brand experience design firm, announces its Visitor Experience Centres (VECs) offerings. Designed for forward-looking enterprises, institutions and conglomerates, EuMo’s VEC offering brings brand narrative, spatial architecture and world-class audiovisual engineering under a unified delivery framework.

Modern experience environments encompassing Executive Briefing Centres (EBCs), Innovation Hubs and Corporate Experience Galleries serve as vital commercial and strategic instruments for influence. These spaces translate complex capabilities into intuitive human experiences, driving key enterprise outcomes: accelerating enterprise sales cycles, engaging institutional investors, hosting delegations and building long-term stakeholder trust.

Single-Source Accountability Across Narrative and Space

Historically, enterprise experience environments face operational friction when execution is fragmented across separate architectural firms, technology vendors, software developers and content agencies. EuMo addresses this gap by providing an end-to-end framework, uniting spatial strategy, interior architecture, custom media production and complete technology integration under one roof.

"The world’s most ambitious institutions understand that spatial design is an instrument of leadership. When narrative architecture, emotional sequence, and spatial proportions are engineered as one continuous discipline, a visitor centre becomes a decisive catalyst for institutional trust. A Visitor Experience Centre is an environment designed to shape market conviction and communicate ambition," says Shanoo Bhatia, Co-Founder and Creative Director at EuMo. "When physical design and enterprise technology operate in silos, the narrative gets lost. Our approach aligns spatial design, emotional storytelling and interactive systems into a cohesive high-performance brand environment that creates demonstrable value for firms."

"True technical mastery in physical spaces never competes with the idea. Enterprises require purposeful technology that clarifies complexity rather than adding spectacle for its own sake. By designing and integrating hardware and software in tandem with physical spaces, we eliminate friction. The result is an intuitive, world-class experience centre that enterprise leaders can control effortlessly over time," says Harkaran Singh Grewal (Gary), Co-Founder and Director at EuMo. “We architect world-class audiovisual engineering into the very anatomy of the room so that immense industrial and technological complexity translates into immediate intuitive clarity. It gives global leaders an enduring platform to project their vision with absolute precision and zero operational friction."

World-Class Audiovisual and Sensory Technology Integration

Central to EuMo’s VEC offering is an advanced audiovisual and interactive tech stack engineered for reliability, multi-sensory immersion, and continuous content evolution. EuMo’s integrated technology capabilities include:

• Immersive Large-Format Displays: Seamless ultra-fine-pitch curved LED walls, transparent OLED screens and multi-surface projection setups

• Spatial Storytelling & Dynamic Projection: 360-degree projection environments and synchronised architectural mapping for scale models and interactive exhibits

• Interactive & Phygital Touchpoints: Multi-touch collaboration tables, spatial audio zones, and gesture-responsive interfaces for exploratory data visualization

• Future-Ready Content Infrastructure: Centralized Content Management Systems (CMS) that allow enterprise teams to update narratives, metrics, and presentations dynamically

Cross-Industry Strategic Impact

EuMo’s visitor experience solutions serve diverse sectors including energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, education, BFSI, technology and healthcare. By uniting strategy, design intelligence, and technology, EuMo creates immersive environments that transform how institutions engage their most critical audiences.

PASHA Real Estate Group and Marriott International Sign Multi-Property Agreement across Azerbaijan and Georgia

PASHA Real Estate Group and Marriott International, Inc., announced today a signed agreement to launch three new hotel and residential properties across Azerbaijan and Georgia.  The planned projects include a luxury hotel and branded residences under The Ritz-Carlton along the shores of Zagulba Beach in Baku, along with the extension of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Baku within a new residential tower. The agreement also includes the anticipated addition of a Le Méridien hotel in Tbilisi.

The signing ceremony for the new projects took place at The Ritz-Carlton, Baku in the presence of Ozgur Geter, Chief Executive Officer of PASHA Real Estate Group and Neal Jones, President, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International, along with other senior leaders from both organisations.

“As a company, we are committed to shaping destinations that contribute to the long-term growth and attractiveness of Azerbaijan and the wider region,” said Ozgur Geter, Chief Executive Officer of PASHA Real Estate Group. “These projects reflect our vision to deliver world-class hospitality and luxury living experiences that meet evolving consumer expectations while creating lasting value for our communities and stakeholders. Our relationship with Marriott has been built on a shared commitment to excellence, innovation and exceptional guest experiences, and we are proud to expand that collaboration through the introduction of new landmark developments under some of the world's most renowned brands.”

“Eastern Europe and the Caucasus remain an important growth area for Marriott, supported by increasing travel demand, evolving hospitality infrastructure and strong consumer and owner appetite for globally recognised brands,” said Neal Jones, President, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “These agreements reflect the momentum we are seeing across the region and our strategy to expand a diverse portfolio of brands that resonates with a wide range of travelers and trip purposes, while also catering to the growing demand for premium lifestyle and luxury living experiences. We look forward to expanding our relationship with PASHA Real Estate as we further strengthen our presence in these dynamic markets.”

The Ritz-Carlton Baku, Zagulba and The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Baku, Zagulba

The company is anticipated to bring The Ritz-Carlton’s legendary service and elegant design to the shores of Zagulba Beach, a sought-after seaside retreat north of Baku on the Caspian Sea. The Ritz-Carlton Baku, Zagulba is expected to feature 80 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites in a beach resort location. Plans for the property include distinct dining venues and a range of facilities such as an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, spa, a beach club and The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge.

The project is also anticipated to include The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Baku, Zagulba which will feature 282 luxury apartments and villas that aim to elevate daily life with sophisticated style and legendary service. Plans for the residences include dedicated facilities such as a clubhouse, fitness centre, swimming pool, kids club, cinema and private beach access.

Extension of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Baku

Following the successful launch of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Baku in 2023, PASHA Real Estate Group plan to develop a new tower within the existing site which is anticipated to feature 238 additional luxury residences along with dedicated amenities such as a lounge, fitness center and swimming pool. 

Le Méridien Tbilisi

Le Méridien plans to expand its portfolio in Georgia with the addition of a hotel within the Chugureti district of central Tbilisi, one of the city's most vibrant and emerging neighborhoods. Le Méridien Tbilisi is anticipated to feature 152 contemporary guestrooms along with multiple dining outlets, meeting and events space and a fitness centre. The property will reflect Le Méridien’s spirit of savoring the good life and feature signature brand programs and spaces, such as Le Méridien Hub – a modern reinterpretation of the traditional hotel lobby.

The newly signed projects further strengthen the collaboration between PASHA Real Estate Group and Marriott International which currently comprises The Ritz-Carlton, Baku; The St. Regis Baku, JW Marriott Absheron Baku, Baku Marriott Hotel Boulevard, Sheraton Baku Intourist Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott Baku, Pik Palace, Shahdag, Autograph Collection and Park Chalet, Shahdag, Autograph Collection.

Marriott International Signs Landmark Agreement with CP Group for Three Hotels in New Zealand

Marriott International Inc. has signed agreements with CP Group to bring three new hotels to the country, further strengthening Marriott’s growing presence across New Zealand. The agreement is expected to mark the country debut of flagship brand Marriott Hotels in Rotorua as well as Autograph Collection in Auckland and Wellington. Building on the relationship between Marriott and CP Group, this signing follows their recently announced St. Regis Queenstown project.

The three hotels are expected to open between 2026 and 2029, introducing guests and Marriott Bonvoy members to new accommodation options across New Zealand’s North Island, from the geothermal landscapes of Rotorua to the urban centres of Auckland and Wellington.

“Along with Australia and the rest of the Pacific, New Zealand is an important growth region for Marriott International, and this agreement with CP Group reflects our strategy to bring our brands and distinctive experiences to more destinations across the region. As our portfolio expands beyond traditional gateway cities, we see significant opportunities to meet growing demand from travellers and Marriott Bonvoy members for high-quality, differentiated stays. The planned debut of Marriott Hotels in Rotorua – the traditional cultural hub of New Zealand and the Autograph Collection in the vibrant cities of Auckland and Wellington will broaden the choices available to guests while showcasing the unique character of each destination,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International.

Paul Richardson, Chief Operating Officer of CP Hotels, said, “We're proud to bring the first Marriott hotel brand to Rotorua. As one of New Zealand’s most distinctive tourism destinations, Rotorua Marriott Hotel is set to raise the bar in accommodation for visitors to this iconic region. Marriott Hotels is one of the world’s most recognizable hotel brands, so this is indeed a watershed moment for Rotorua.” 

“Signing three more hotels with Marriott International in New Zealand brings our total number of Marriott branded hotels across the Pacific to six. We will debut the Marriott Hotels and Autograph Collection brands in Rotorua, Wellington and Auckland. Our Wellington and Auckland hotels will be repurposed historic buildings, delivering much-needed new premium hotel supply to these key cities and expanding the impressive list portfolio of properties under our own Fable Hotels brand.”

Rotorua Marriott Hotel is slated to mark Marriott’s entry in Rotorua as part of a conversion deal of the existing Arawa Park Hotel Rotorua. The hotel is planned to undergo a comprehensive 12-month renovation and launching as Rotorua Marriott Hotel in late 2027. Located on Fenton Street, in the heart of Rotorua, the hotel will provide Marriott’s world-famous warm-hearted hospitality and thoughtfully designed spaces for travellers exploring the region, known for its unique geothermal landscapes, Māori culture and outdoor experiences. The transition will represent Marriott’s inaugural foothold in the Rotorua market.

The Official Auckland, Autograph Collection is set to bring Marriott’s premium Autograph Collection brand to Auckland in 2028, marking the brand’s arrival in the city through the transformation of a historic building on Eden Crescent in Auckland’s central business district. Celebrated for its elegance and style, the building will be reimagined as a high-end, design-led boutique hotel when it joins the Autograph Collection, Marriott’s global collection of distinctive independent hotels carefully crafted to leave a lasting imprint on guests, and often iconic landmarks themselves or buildings that honour local heritage.

Expected to open in 2028 with 82 rooms, the hotel is slated to become Marriott’s fourth hotel in Auckland, offering guests an experience rooted in the distinctive character and history of the building while reflecting the independent spirit synonymous with Autograph Collection.

Fable Wellington, Autograph Collection will bring the Autograph Collection brand to Wellington, anticipated to open in 2029, through the repurposing of the historic 1940s office building located on the corner of Lambton Quay and Stout Street. With plans to feature 118 rooms, it will become the latest addition to CP Group’s portfolio of five Fable hotels across New Zealand.

Together, the three properties are set to strengthen Marriott’s presence across New Zealand’s North Island and reflects Marriott’s continued focus on working with experienced hotel owners and investors to expand its portfolio in strategic markets.

Marriott currently operates two hotels in New Zealand; JW Marriott Auckland, and Four Points by Sheraton Auckland. Two new openings are expected in 2027, with Sheraton Christchurch and Moxy Auckland. With the addition of the three CP Group hotels, Marriott is continuing to grow its presence across New Zealand, complementing its existing portfolio and pipeline of properties across the country and offering Marriott Bonvoy members more opportunities to earn and redeem points while exploring New Zealand.

NOTE ON FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains ”forward-looking statements“ within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to our expectations regarding growth and development; deal signings and expected future project openings; our development pipeline; the pace and momentum of development activity, conversion activity, multi-unit activity, and growth in certain segments and product tiers; brand debuts; travel demand; hotel owner and guest interest, demand and preferences for our brands and offerings; our delivery of long-term value to hotel owners; and similar statements concerning anticipated future actions and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

redBus Launches ‘Bus Travel Ka Tareeka Badal Raha Hai’ to Spotlight How Technology Is Transforming Bus Travel

The phased campaign opens with films around convenient boarding and dropping points and in-bus toilets, using humour and everyday situations to bring travel features to life

National,  October 2026: redBus, one of India’s leading online bus ticketing platforms, has launched its new brand campaign, ‘Bus Travel Ka Tareeka Badal Raha Hai’, bringing to life how evolving travel features are evolving the way people experience bus journeys. 

The way young India travels is changing. Gen Z and younger travellers approach travel with the same problem-solving mindset they bring to their digital lives looking for greater choice, convenience, control and confidence at every step of their journey. As traveller expectations evolve, so does bus travel.

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in this shift, helping make intercity journeys more convenient and predictable. From clearer boarding and dropping point information to the availability of buses with in-bus toilets, travellers today have greater choice and visibility when planning their journeys. The campaign celebrates the innovative spirit of Gen Z by showing how they creatively use redBus features to solve everyday travel needs and make their journeys more convenient.

Through relatable and humorous stories, the films bring these everyday use cases to life, showing how travellers are finding new ways to make the most of their bus journeys

Designed as a phased campaign, ‘Bus Travel Ka Tareeka Badal Raha Hai’ is a set of 6 films that use relatable situations and humour to show how everyday travel features are changing the bus journey. The first phase, rolling out in the first week of October, features the first 2 films centred on in-bus toilets and convenient boarding and dropping points , with the remaining films to follow in subsequent phases. These films are translated and transcreated across 10 Indian languages.

The campaign is rooted in familiar Indian moments, with each film taking a simple travel feature and placing it within an unexpected, entertaining situation. The campaign will roll out across Digital (YouTube, Meta and OTTs), CTV, Regional TV (Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh/Telangana and Odisha), and the India vs West Indies cricket series on JioHotstar.

It will be available for audiences across India in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Bengali, Odia and Punjabi.

Film 1 : In-bus toilets

The first film takes a playful look at in-bus toilets, as a young man’s private phone conversation takes an unexpected turn when he steps out of what appears to be a regular bathroom to reveal that he has been using an in-bus toilet

He returns to his seat beside his grandfather and exchanges a glance with his girlfriend, who is travelling with her family on the same bus. The film uses the unexpected reveal to bring the in-bus toilet feature into a familiar and humorous travel moment.

Film 2 : Flexible  boarding and dropping points

The second film uses a playful twist to highlight the convenience of flexible boarding and dropping points. It follows a woman who sees off a man from the nearest boarding point, allowing the couple to spend a little more time together before his journey. As his bus leaves, another bus arrives at the same stop, leading to an unexpected revelation when another man gets off the bus and is greeted by the woman with another bouquet of roses. The humorous twist brings alive how travellers can choose convenient boarding and dropping points that fit naturally into their travel plans

Together, the films bring the campaign thought ‘Bus Travel Ka Tareeka Badal Raha Hai’ to life through humour and familiar everyday travel moments. 

Commenting on the campaign, Pallavi Chopra, Chief Marketing Officer, redBus, said, “The way people experience bus travel has been changing steadily, and we wanted to give that change a simple and memorable creative expression. ‘Bus Travel Ka Tareeka Badal Raha Hai’ is built around the idea that even a practical travel feature can become part of an interesting everyday story. Humour allows us to make these moments engaging and culturally familiar, while helping build a more contemporary conversation around bus travel. As the campaign unfolds in phases, we hope to keep discovering fresh stories around how people travel and the experiences that shape their journeys.”

The campaign will continue to unfold in phases, with additional films bringing more travel experiences under the broader ‘Bus Travel Ka Tareeka Badal Raha Hai’ platform.

Marriott International Signs Landmark Agreement to Add Eight Hotels in the Netherlands

Marriott International, Inc. today announced an agreement with Townhouse Hotels to add eight hotels and over 700 rooms to its portfolio in the Netherlands. The landmark deal includes six properties expected to join Series by Marriott™, marking the brand's introduction to the Dutch market, as well as two hotels to be affiliated with Tribute Portfolio, Marriott’s growing collection of characterful independent hotels.

The agreement encompasses a collection of urban hotels across five Dutch cities, including the company’s expansion in Amsterdam, Breda and The Hague. The deal is also slated to mark Marriott's entry into Maastricht and Eindhoven, further expanding the company's footprint in key Dutch destinations while offering travelers a broader range of hospitality experiences across its portfolio.

“This agreement represents a significant milestone for Marriott International in the Netherlands, bringing eight distinctive hotels into our portfolio and introducing Series by Marriott to the Dutch market,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “These projects offer a mix of independent hospitality experiences across sought-after destinations, while also enabling our entry into Maastricht and Eindhoven. Together with Townhouse Hotels, we look forward to providing guests with even more compelling travel experiences across the Netherlands.”

“These agreements reflect our long-term vision for Townhouse Hotels: a portfolio of distinctive hotels with a strong identity, backed by a global platform,” said Joost Mees, Managing Partner, European Hotel Capital. “With our boutique hotels The ALD and Mariënhage joining Tribute Portfolio, and all Townhouse Hotels joining Series by Marriott, we strengthen the foundation of the company and position it for sustainable growth in the years ahead. It is an important milestone in realizing the full potential of Townhouse Hotels, and one that will create value for our guests, our teams and our partners. We have full confidence in the management team to lead the way.”

Rick de Jonge, CEO, Townhouse Hotels, added “We are incredibly proud that our boutique hotels The ALD and Mariënhage are joining Tribute Portfolio, and that all Townhouse Hotels are becoming part of Series by Marriott. This is a defining moment for our company and a clear recognition of what our teams have built. Joining Marriott's global platform opens the door to new guests, new markets and new opportunities, and marks the start of an ambitious next chapter.”

Introducing Series by Marriott to the Netherlands

Series by Marriott is a collection brand that brings together established, regionally recognized hotel brands into one thoughtfully curated portfolio – designed for travelers who want comfort, value, and a sense of place. Each property tells its own local story reflecting the character of the region and the people it serves, while delivering a simple, approachable experience focused on well‑executed fundamentals.

The properties expected to join the Series by Marriott portfolio include:

• Townhouse Amsterdam WTC, Series by Marriott - The Hotel will open as Townhouse Amsterdam WTC, Series by Marriott following a rebrand from Hotel Qbic WTC Amsterdam. Located within Amsterdam’s thriving Zuidas business district, the 84-room hotel offers convenient access to one of the city’s key commercial hubs.

• Townhouse The Hague, Series by Marriott - Ideally positioned in the Dutch political capital, the property will offer 88 guestrooms and will provide easy access to government institutions, international organizations and cultural landmarks.

• Townhouse Maastricht, Series by Marriott - Located near Maastricht’s historic center, the 82-room hotel supports Marriott’s entry into one of the Netherlands’ most charming cultural and culinary destinations.

• Townhouse Mabi Maastricht, Series by Marriott - A distinctive boutique hotel with 55 rooms housed in a former cinema, blending local heritage with contemporary hospitality.

• Townhouse Kaboom Maastricht, Series by Marriott - Known for its bold design and lifestyle-driven concept, the hotel offers 79 rooms and caters to modern travelers seeking a vibrant stay experience.

• Townhouse Breda, Series by Marriott - The hotel will open as Townhouse Breda, Series by Marriott following a rebrand from Hotel Keyser. The largest Series by Marriott hotel in the portfolio with 106 rooms, strategically located in one of the Netherlands’ fastest-growing regional cities.

Expanding Tribute Portfolio’s Presence in Europe

Known for bringing together characterful hotels that champion individuality through distinctive design, vibrant social scenes and authentic local connections, Tribute Portfolio continues to strengthen its footprint across Europe. The planned addition of two new properties in this key market further enhances the brand’s growing collection of independent hotels, offering travelers unique experiences rooted in their destinations.

The two properties expected to join the Tribute Portfolio include:

• The Ald Hotel The Hague, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel - A boutique hotel with 91 rooms distinguished by its contemporary design, local character and intimate guest experience in the heart of the city.

• Hotel Mariënhage Eindhoven, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel - Housed within a landmark former monastery complex, the 134-room hotel combines historic architecture with modern hospitality and marks Marriott's entry into Eindhoven, one of Europe's leading technology and innovation hubs.

This agreement underscores Marriott's continued commitment to strategic growth in Europe through collaborations with established owners and operators. By adding a combination of boutique and independent hotels across the Netherlands, Marriott continues to broaden its appeal to travelers seeking authentic, locally inspired experiences.

As of Q2 2026, Marriott’s portfolio in the Netherlands encompasses over 30 properties in operation across 12 brands, each serving differentiated experiences across traveler segments and travel purposes. The brands currently present in the country include W Hotels, Marriott Hotels, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Renaissance Hotels, Tribute Portfolio, Autograph Collection Hotels, Residence Inn by Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott, Moxy Hotels, Design Hotels, Element by Marriott, and citizenM.

Taj Corbett Resort & Spa Celebrates a Decade of Luxury, Nature and Unforgettable Experiences

Corbett, October 2026:  Set amidst the wilderness of Jim Corbett National Park, Taj Corbett Resort & Spa celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of bringing together the untamed beauty of the forest, and the warmth of Taj hospitality. Since opening its doors in 2016 with 55 keys, the resort has evolved over the years, adding a new block of luxury suites, including a Grand Presidential Suite in 75, while staying true to its character as a wildlife luxury haven.  

With the Kosi River flowing by and the forest unfolding around it, Taj Corbett offers an intimate encounter with the wild, where the sounds of birds, the rustle of foliage and the gentle rhythm of the river become part of the stay. Its connection with the landscape extends to the local communities around it, brought to life through experiences such as the Kunkhet Village Walk, where guests can trek through lush green fields and winding, fruit-laden paths while discovering the rhythms of village life. 

For Nivedan Kukreti, General Manager, Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, the milestone carries a meaning that goes beyond a number. He said, ‘A decade at Taj Corbett has been a privilege. Here, nature is not a backdrop to hospitality but part of everyday life, and being its custodian is a responsibility we take seriously. My heartfelt thanks to our guests, team and local community who have made these ten years so meaningful.” 

Marking this milestone, Taj Corbett Resort & Spa celebrated with a week-long series of thoughtful touches designed to bring its decade-long journey to life. Guests arriving at the resort were welcomed by a special 10 Years floral installation, while anniversary-themed culinary presentations added a festive touch at Treetop Restaurant. Special welcome amenities, an anniversary turndown experience and curated departure gifts further carried the celebration into the guest journey. As a keepsake of the decade gone by, departing guests also received an indigenous plant and postcards featuring old photographs of the resort - a small reminder of the many memories that have been created here over the years. 

Through its sustainability initiatives under IHCL’s Paathya framework, the resort continues to focus on responsible practices, local engagement and preserving the character of the region. As Taj Corbett looks towards the years ahead, the celebration is a reflection of the values that have shaped its journey: a thoughtful approach to hospitality, a deep respect for its surroundings and a commitment to creating meaningful experiences for every guest.

India Leads Asia-Pacific in Branded Residences at ₹92,000 Crore; TBRS 2.0 Maps the Road to 85 Projects by 2028

Two days, more than 50 speakers, 19 sessions. Developers, global brands, lenders and funds moved the branded residences conversation from the logo to the economics underneath it: feasibility, capital, sales velocity and how an asset is run long after handover.

MUMBAI, OCTOBER 2026 The Branded Residences Summit 2026 (TBRS 2.0), presented by Amavi by Clarks and curated by NOESIS Hotel Advisors, concluded at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar on 8 October. Over two days it brought together 350 delegates, including 250 developers, 28 international and Indian brands, more than 50 speakers and six of the funds and banks that finance Indian real estate.

The summit opened with an address by NOESIS Founder and CEO Nandivardhan Jain and the launch of The Landscape of Branded Residences in India, Edition 3, the new NOESIS report. It values India’s branded residences market at about ₹92,000 crore (USD 9.7 billion), the highest in Asia-Pacific. India holds 21 percent of the region’s USD 45.3 billion branded value from just 15 percent of its units, ahead of Vietnam at USD 8.0 billion.

₹92,000

Crore combined market value, the highest in Asia-Pacific

32%

Average branded premium over comparable projects

3.1x

Jump in branded supply in 2025

85

Projects expected by 2028, up from 47 today

Source: The Landscape of Branded Residences in India, Edition 3, NOESIS Hotel Advisors, October 2026.

The opening address: from niche to asset class

Nandivardhan Jain, Founder and CEO of NOESIS Hotel Advisors and Curator of TBRS, opened the summit with a data-led account of how India’s branded residences market was built and where it goes next, drawing on NOESIS project tracking and Edition 3.

Until 2023: a niche. For most of the last decade, branded residences in India were a niche category, led by a few pioneering developers in a handful of metros. Buyers and lenders were still testing whether a brand could hold a premium in Indian real estate.

2023 to 2026: the foundation. The last three years settled that question. The report now tracks 38 projects operational or launched, totalling 10,452 homes. Supply rose 3.1 times in 2025 alone, from 1,015 to 3,181 units. The 5,156 homes launched since January 2025 are double the previous seven years combined. Annual transaction value has grown 49 percent a year since 2019, with ₹47,278 crore transacted since 2018. Buyers have absorbed 68 percent of all branded supply launched to date.

The next 24 months: scale and spread. NOESIS tracking counts 47 confirmed projects today and expects 85 by 2028, spread across 28 markets. The non-metro share rises from 8 percent of projects to 45 percent of the next wave, across markets such as Goa, Alibaug, Rishikesh, Bhubaneswar and Mohali. Demand is in place to absorb it: India now has 19,877 ultra-high-net-worth individuals, up 63 percent since 2021.

Jain then took delegates through how a branded residence behaves as an asset at each stage of its life. At design, the brand shapes the product itself: planning, amenity programme and the arrival and shared spaces that carry the brand promise. At development, brand standards set the specification, the construction cost and the delivery timeline, so the brand decision has to be made before the drawings are frozen. In operation, service delivery, maintenance charges and owners’ association economics decide whether the promise made at sale still holds.

Where the value is created. Branded homes sell at an average 32 percent premium over comparable catchment projects, led by Pune at 44 percent and Kolkata at 42 percent. They also sell faster. Faster absorption brings collections forward, reduces the debt a project carries through construction and lifts returns on the same land. Jain’s point to developers was direct: the premium comes from feasibility, positioning and operator fit, not from the logo.

Day One: The Foundations

Day One followed a project in the order it is actually built, from land to underwriting. It began with BRIM, the invitation-only Branded Residence Intensive Masterclass led by NOESIS, followed by a closed-door series in which YOO, Amavi by Clarks and Moricon Consultants set out what makes a brand say yes, or walk away.

On the main stage, Atul Chordia, Founder and Chairman of Panchshil Realty, traced the origins of branded living in India in a fireside conversation with Nandivardhan Jain. Senior leaders from Accor, Banyan Group, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and The Ascott Limited compared what the world got right and wrong. M3M India, Amavi by Clarks and Dalcore debated whether branded residences can create new luxury micro-markets.

Navdeep Sardana of Whiteland Corporation took delegates through the making of a branded landmark. Economic Laws Practice set out the legal architecture of a branded deal. Kalpesh Mehta of Tribeca Developers took on the question every developer has to answer first: do the numbers work.

The day closed with The Branded Residences Awards, presented for the first time: eight honours across six competitive categories and two jury honours, scored by an independent jury on brand fit, feasibility, design, deal structure and execution. NOESIS ran the secretariat and did not vote.

Day Two: The Execution

Day Two moved from planning to delivery. Daniel von Barloewen, Senior Vice President, Accor One Living, opened with a keynote on the design, sales and operating principles that keep a branded residence valuable. At the Capital Roundtable, Motilal Oswal Alternates, Certus Capital, TCG Real Estate, HDFC Bank, ICICI Prudential and ASK Property Fund laid out what money will and will not underwrite in the category.

Development heads from Marriott International, Radisson Hotel Group, Accor, Hyatt and Oberoi Hotels & Resorts debated hotel-led against standalone models, in a panel moderated by NOESIS COO Vijay Bhandari. Amavi by Clarks, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts, Olive by Embassy and Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts examined how sale-and-leaseback structures work in practice, including where owners have been burned before. AMPA Group, Whiteland Corporation, Panchshil Realty and M3M India explained how branded projects sell out before they are built.

IHCL and Gulshan Group traced a single project from feasibility and brand selection to its launch. YOO, Pininfarina, Brand & Co., The Charcoal Project and Xplore Lifestyle Solutions examined what fashion, design and wellness brands bring into the home. Sarovar Hotels & Resorts, Moricon Consultants and Royal Orchid Hotels addressed operating and protecting the asset after handover, the stage that decides long-term value. The summit closed with leaders from Hilton, Radisson Hotel Group, Panchshil Realty, Sattva Group and NOESIS setting out how they see branded living in India over the next decade.

Three lessons NOESIS takes from TBRS 2.0

Feasibility comes before the brand. The report finds the strongest sell-through where the brand tier, the operator and the measured premium are matched to the site. That match has to be made before a logo is chosen.

Capital reads the whole structure. The brand agreement, the sales plan and the debt structure are one decision for a lender. Debt belongs in the first conversation, not the last.

Hotel brands are moving in. Non-hospitality brands hold 73 percent of Indian branded units against about 20 percent globally. NOESIS expects hotel groups to narrow that gap sharply over the next 24 months.

Nandivardhan Jain, Founder and CEO, NOESIS Hotel Advisors; Curator, TBRS, says, “For two days, India’s developers, brands and capital tested this category against hard numbers. Indian buyers have settled one question: they will pay for a brand and they buy faster. The projects that take India to 85 by 2028 will be judged on what comes after the logo. Feasibility done before the brand is chosen. A partner picked for fit, not fame. Service run well for thirty years. That is the move from logo to lifetime value.”

ITC Maratha’s Peshwa Pavilion Presents A Celebratory Feast of Bengal

ITC Maratha brings the flavours of Bengal to Mumbai with A Celebratory Feast of Bengal, a special dining experience at Peshwa Pavilion that pays tribute to the region’s rich food traditions and much-loved Bengali dishes.

The spread features favourites such as Beguni, Fish Fry, Paneer Posto Tikka, Kosha Mansho and Chingri Malai Curry, followed by traditional Bengali sweets including Kheer Kadam, Chomchom and Nolen Gur Sandesh. Rooted in traditional recipes and familiar flavours, the feast celebrates the food and traditions that make Bengali cuisine so special.

The feast will be available on 16th and 17th October for dinner from 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM at ₹3,150++ per person, and on 18th October for brunch from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM at ₹3,500++ per person, with soft beverages included. 

Sterling Opens Leopard Haven Jawai, Deepens Rajasthan Footprint and Wilderness Portfolio

New resort adds a distinctive wildlife stop to SHRL’s Rajasthan circuit, combining leopard country with locally rooted experiences and intimate stays

Chennai, 14 October 2026: Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited (SHRL) has announced the opening of Sterling Leopard Haven Jawai in Rajasthan, adding strength to both its presence in the state and its growing wilderness portfolio. Set near Bera amid Jawai’s distinctive granite terrain, the resort gives travellers a base to explore one of India’s most unusual wildlife landscapes — where leopards move through rocky outcrops and caves rather than dense forests.

Jawai’s appeal, however, extends well beyond the safari. The Jawai Dam reservoir brings rich birdlife into the experience, while the surrounding countryside, tribal villages and Rabari communities and regional culinary traditions reveal a slower, more textured side of Rajasthan. The opportunity is therefore not simply to visit Jawai for a sighting, but to spend enough time to understand the place around it.

Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited (SHRL), said: “Jawai is compelling because the reason you arrive and the reason you remember the holiday can be very different. A leopard may create the first pull, but the real richness comes from everything that surrounds that experience.

For Sterling, this is exactly the kind of destination that strengthens the portfolio in more than one way. It deepens our presence in Rajasthan, adds further weight to our national wilderness offering and also creates a natural link in an Mount Abu-Udaipur–Jawai–Jodhpur journey. Our growth is increasingly about building more around why people travel — creating richer reasons to stay, explore and discover more of India.”

Boasting of 19 indulgent cottages, suites and villas, Sterling Leopard Haven Jawai has been designed as an intimate retreat. The Jawai Villas offer private balconies and bathtubs; Pool Villas add plunge pools and secluded outdoor spaces; while the Two-Bedroom Pool Villa brings adjoining villas together for groups who want to stay together while retaining privacy. An infinity pool, kids’ play area and outdoor spaces provide easy downtime between excursions.

Local cuisine adds another layer to the stay. At Jawai Vista, guests can indulge in Rajasthani flavours inspired combinations of regional millets and rice, alongside the familiar Methi Bajra Khichda, Panchkutte ki Subzi, Mathania Chicken, Jawai Laal Maas, and Chef’s curated specials bowls, all coupled with views across the valley and pool. 

Where conditions permit, outdoor breakfasts, safari picnics and locally inspired meals take the experience beyond the restaurant and into the landscape itself.

That connection to the local ecosystem becomes tangible through guided leopard safaris, excursions around Jawai Dam, birdwatching and crocodile spotting, alongside opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside and communities. Together, these experiences reveal more of Jawai’s natural and lived character, moving the holiday beyond a single wildlife sighting and giving travellers more reasons to explore the region at a slower pace.

Its location between Udaipur and Jodhpur further strengthens that proposition. Jawai introduces a contrasting wilderness chapter into a Rajasthan journey otherwise dominated by forts, palaces and heritage cities. For SHRL, that creates strategic value beyond another resort opening: a stronger Rajasthan presence, greater relevance in wilderness travel, and a more compelling regional circuit for guests.

Speaking on the launch, Manish Gurani, owner BMMR Hospitality LLP said: “What drew us to Jawai was its rarity — a place where wildlife, open landscapes and everyday life exist side by side without the destination feeling over-engineered for tourism. We wanted the resort to preserve that sense of space and discovery while giving travellers the comfort to stay longer and see more of the region. Sterling was the right partner because it understands how to build demand around destinations, not just properties, and has the reach to introduce Jawai to a much wider leisure audience.”

Sterling Leopard Haven Jawai also reflects the company’s broader approach to expansion: building its portfolio around distinct reasons to travel.

Rather than viewing destinations simply as locations for hotels, Sterling is increasingly developing hospitality bases around the motivations that take travellers there — whether wildlife, nature, spirituality, culture, wellness or discovery.

That philosophy is consistent with Sterling’s stated approach of building travel circuits rather than simply “marking dots on a map.”

Mango Hill Hotels & Resorts Signs Up 11th Hotel in Tamil Nadu

Mango Hill Hotels & Resorts has signed up its 11th hotel in Tamil Nadu, marking its entry into Tiruvannamalai, a destination renowned for its spiritual heritage and cultural significance.

Located opposite Sri Ramanasramam and along the Girivalam path, Mango Hill Tiruvannamalai will offer a comfortable stay for pilgrims, families and leisure travellers visiting the town’s spiritual landmarks.

The hotel will feature 32 premium guest rooms, a 60-cover restaurant and a spacious lobby, catering to travellers seeking a peaceful and convenient base to explore the destination.

Key attractions in the vicinity include Arunachaleswarar Temple, Sri Ramanasramam, Skandashramam and Virupaksha Cave, along with the popular Girivalam route around Arunachala Hill.

Tiruvannamalai Railway Station is approximately 3–5 km from the hotel. By road, Puducherry Airport is around 2–2.5 hours away, Chennai International Airport approximately 3.5–4.5 hours, and Bengaluru International Airport around 4–5 hours, depending on traffic and route conditions.

With this addition, Mango Hill Hotels & Resorts continues to strengthen its presence across Tamil Nadu, focusing on destinations that offer distinctive cultural, spiritual and leisure experiences.