Category Archives: Hotels

GRT Hotels & Resorts hosted a vibrant meet in the capital, bringing together key players from the fraternity for an evening of networking, knowledge sharing, and partnership building. The event witnessed participation from some of the most respected names in the industry, reinforcing GRT’s commitment to strengthening its travel trade relationships across the country. The gathering showcased GRT Hotels’ expanding portfolio and innovative experiences across South India, with special emphasis on its award-winning resorts and urban escapes. Guests were also given exclusive updates on new offerings, signature experiences, and the brand’s vision for the year ahead. Speaking on the occasion, Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, said: “Our travel trade partners have been integral to our growth journey. Events like these allow us to reconnect, exchange ideas, and explore new possibilities together. At GRT Hotels & Resorts, we believe in creating not just stays but stories – and our partners help us take those stories far and wide.”

IHCL signed the SeleQtions hotel in Anjuna, Goa, a conversion of a standalone resort with expansion of inventory to 51 keys. The hotel will offer an array of culinary experiences, including an all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant, and a cocktail bar. Guests can unwind with a range of recreational amenities such as a swimming pool and a well-equipped gym.

In the aftermath of the recent terrorist incident in Kashmir, V Vidyavathi, Secretary (Tourism), has requested all tourist service operators, travel agents, tour operators, and OTAs, tourist transport providers, hoteliers and all other accommodation units to provide all possible assistance to the tourists, including waving off cancellation fees. Meanwhile, Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu held an urgent meeting with all airline operators and issued a strong advisory against surge pricing. Airlines have been directed to maintain regular fare levels, ensuring that no passenger is burdened during this sensitive time. As part of immediate relief measures, four special flights from Srinagar—two to Delhi and two to Mumbai—have been arranged, with additional flights kept on standby to cater to further evacuation needs.

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of its latest property, Cozzet Mahad in Maharashtra. This strategic expansion strengthens the brand’s regional presence, catering to business and leisure travellers. In its first phase, Cozzet Mahad features an inventory of 55 keys under Superior, Club and Suite categories. The second phase will further enhance the offering with an additional 55 rooms, providing guests with a wider selection of accommodations. In terms of its F&B offerings, Cozzet Mahad houses C Pavilion, an all-day dining restaurant catering to diverse culinary preferences. Guests can indulge in a diverse selection of fresh, healthy, hygienic, and thoughtfully prepared world cuisines at C Pavilion. The restaurant also offers tempting mocktails and relishing light bites for a quick snack. Gossip Veg Bistro is a fully vegetarian eatery which offers exquisite tastes. Guests can also bask in the comfort of their room while digging on their favourite food at any time of the day, thanks to in-room dining. More to this is the perched high above the city, Metro Sky Lounge is a stunning 60-cover rooftop restro bar that offers a perfect blend of ambiance, taste, and skyline magic. With panoramic views that stretch across the urban horizon, it’s the ultimate destination for those who seek elevated evenings and unforgettable moments. Cozzet Mahad offers an elegant MICE venue, Summit, a well-appointed banquet and conference hall designed for both formal and informal gatherings. With modern amenities and a versatile layout, the facility comfortably accommodates up to 250 guests, making it ideal for conferences, celebrations, and intimate events alike. Speaking on the latest opening, Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, shared, “The Cozzet is a …

Minor Hotels announces the arrival of the Avani Hotels & Resorts brand in India with Avani+ Sunray Beach Visakhapatnam Resort, an exclusive new-build resort and branded residences development set along the scenic Sunray Beach in Visakhapatnam, India. The project will feature 117 hotel rooms and 58 branded residential villas, alongside a suite of premium amenities designed to set a new benchmark for hospitality in the region. The announcement comes as Minor Hotels significantly accelerates its expansion strategy in India, targeting 50 new openings in the country over the next decade.

Calling on Agoda to immediately reverse the recent changes to its commission structure, K Syama Raju, President, Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), said, “We strongly urge Agoda to uphold equitable business practices and maintain complete transparency in their engagements with Indian hotel partners.”

GRT Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading boutique hospitality group, celebrated World Heritage Day with a heritage-themed quiz, bringing together history enthusiasts, guests, and team members from across 17 properties in five South Indian states. We had 650 participants taking part in the hybrid event. Hosted by Nawabzada Mohammed Asif Ali, Dewan to the Prince of Arcot, whose deep knowledge of Indian heritage and culture enriched the occasion. Designed to spotlight India’s diverse and storied legacy, the quiz featured questions on UNESCO World Heritage Sites, iconic monuments, ancient dynasties, regional art forms, and cultural traditions. Participants competed in a fun, hybrid format—both on-ground and online—for attractive prizes, including stay and dining vouchers at GRT Hotels & Resorts. Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, said “World Heritage Day is a celebration of the past that shapes our present. Through this quiz, we aimed to spark curiosity, encourage learning, and honour India’s magnificent heritage. We are grateful to Nawabzada Mohammed Asif Ali for lending his insight and grace to this event.” The event also served as a cultural platform, fostering community engagement and offering guests a taste of GRT’s signature hospitality with specially curated local delicacies reflecting India’s timeless heritage.

Marriott Hotels, the namesake brand of Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of over 30 hotel brands, announced the opening of Udaipur Marriott Hotel, marking Marriott International’s debut in Udaipur. Set against the backdrop of the Aravalli Hills and overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake, the hotel blends Rajasthan’s rich regal heritage with contemporary influences. “We are delighted to introduce Marriott Hotels to Udaipur, a city renowned for its majestic landscapes, deep cultural roots, and old-world charm. Udaipur is one of the most preferred destinations in Rajasthan and serves as a perfect backdrop to introduce our signature heartfelt service and quality standards to the guests,” said Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International. “As India’s travel landscape evolves, we remain committed to growing our footprint in both established and emerging destinations, as we continue to live our legacy of wonderful hospitality, thoughtfully designed to support and inspire our guests in every endeavor”. The 226 guestrooms and suites are inspired by Rajasthan’s royal heritage. “We are excited to unveil Udaipur Marriott Hotel, bringing the brand’s signature hospitality to the enchanting ‘City of Lakes,’” said Vaibhav Sagar, General Manager, Udaipur Marriott Hotel. “Designed to reflect Udaipur’s regal charm, the hotel offers elegant accommodations, world-class dining, modern event spaces, and exceptional amenities. Weaving Rajasthan’s rich heritage with contemporary comforts, we look forward to creating unforgettable experiences for every guest, whether traveling for business or leisure.”

Miiro, the new lifestyle hotel brand from InterGlobe Enterprises, is proud to announce the highly anticipated launch of Templeton Garden, marking the brand’s debut in the UK and the fourth opening in Europe in less than a year. The property is located in the historic Earl’s Court, an area once home to world-renowned writers. With its tranquil retreat, the hotel exemplifies Miiro’s commitment to setting new standards in hospitality by blending contemporary design with timeless English elegance. Templeton Garden features 156 rooms and suites, with many offering gorgeous views of the garden that forms the green heart of the hotel while upholding the area’s leafy heritage. The hotel’s contemporary interiors have been carefully thought out and created in collaboration with some of the highly acclaimed British designers to create a peaceful sanctuary for guests and locals alike. Each space is designed to serve as a calming urban retreat. The restaurant and bar at Templeton Garden overlook the hotel’s own garden, drawing inspiration from British seasons. A specially designed and hand-painted mural by a decorative artist depicts the garden’s plants, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. Throughout the property, an art collection selected to complement the neutral interiors and highlight local artists is on display. Additional hotel spaces include a comfortable area that welcomes guests as they enter the property, The Library —offering a curated collection of works by iconic authors, a state-of-the-art gym, and Miiro’s signature Refresh Room. Indian travellers seeking an authentic and enriching London experience will find a unique haven in Templeton Garden. The hotel provides a charming and comfortable base for exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. The property embodies the spirit of its surroundings, offering guests …

In 2024, India’s hospitality sector shifted focus to tier II and III cities like Amritsar and Bikaner, accounting for nearly half of hotel transactions, as per JLL report. CY 2024 witnessed 42,071 keys in terms of branded hotel signings and 11,352 keys in terms of branded hotel openings. As many as 77 per cent of these signings were concentrated in tier II and III cities.