Hilton Unveils Ambitious Plan to Double Lifestyle Hotel Presence by 2028

Hilton Unveils Ambitious Plan to Double Lifestyle Hotel Presence by 2028

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 5, 2024

Hilton, a global leader in hospitality, has set forth an ambitious plan to significantly expand its footprint in the lifestyle hotel segment, aiming to double its presence by adding 350 properties within the next four years. This strategic move comes in response to the company's recent acquisitions and the growing demand for lifestyle accommodations.

Hilton's expansion strategy is fueled by recent acquisitions and partnerships that have positioned the company for substantial growth in the lifestyle hotel category. Earlier this year, Hilton acquired a controlling interest in the Sydell Group, a move aimed at expanding the globally renowned NoMad luxury lifestyle brand. Additionally, the company sealed a $210 million agreement with AJ Capital to acquire the Graduate Hotels brand, which boasts over 35 properties worldwide.

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In line with its aggressive growth strategy, Hilton aims to open more than 100 new lifestyle hotels this year alone, marking the debut of its 400th property in this category. This follows the addition of over 50 new lifestyle hotels last year and the approval of another 100 properties.

Key Brands Driving Growth

Hilton's portfolio of lifestyle brands, including Canopy by Hilton, Graduate by Hilton, Motto by Hilton, Curio Collection by Hilton, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, and Tempo by Hilton, are poised for significant expansion in the coming years.

  • Canopy by Hilton: The brand has launched its first resort property in Seychelles and has signed six new hotels in the first quarter of the year, expanding into Greece, Malta, and soon Japan.

  • Curio Collection by Hilton: With a presence in 40 countries by mid-2024, the brand plans to open nearly 30 new properties this year, including the Keight Hotel Opatija in Croatia.

  • Motto by Hilton: Set to reach ten countries by 2026, the brand has upcoming openings in Hong Kong and Bentonville, Arkansas.

  • Tapestry Collection by Hilton: Expanding into markets such as Thailand, Paraguay, and Türkiye, with the first Hilton in Bermuda set to open later this year as Bermudiana Beach Resort.

  • Tempo by Hilton: Expected to have around 30 hotels open by 2026, with new openings in Times Square, New York City, and Nashville.

To spearhead the growth and development of its lifestyle brands, Hilton has appointed Kevin Osterhaus as the president of global lifestyle brands. Osterhaus will oversee the expansion, design, and development of brands within the lifestyle segment.

Kevin Jacobs, Hilton's chief financial officer and global development president, expressed excitement about the company's growth prospects in the lifestyle segment. He emphasised Hilton's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of developers and guests worldwide, ensuring that the brand remains at the forefront of the hospitality industry.

With its strategic acquisitions, robust expansion plans, and strong brand portfolio, Hilton is poised to redefine the lifestyle hotel experience and capture new markets around the globe.

For more information about Hilton and its lifestyle brands, visit Hilton's official website.


Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali Marks 10 Years of Hospitality Excellence

Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali Marks 10 Years of Hospitality Excellence

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 28, 2026

Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of hospitality excellence and its contribution to Rwanda's emergence as one of Africa's leading destinations for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE).

Since opening in 2016, the landmark property has welcomed world leaders, international organisations, multinational companies, major sporting events, cultural celebrations and thousands of delegates from across the globe. Over the years, it has grown beyond being a hotel and event venue to become a symbol of Rwanda's progress, innovation and growing presence on the global stage.

The celebrations were held under the theme, "Celebrating a Decade of Excellence, Innovation and Community Impact," recognising the people, partnerships and achievements that have shaped the property's journey while looking ahead to its future.

The anniversary programme centred around three key initiatives. Legacy Week featured a 10-day celebration showcasing the hotel's contribution to Rwanda's development. The Legacy Gala brought together around 350 stakeholders and partners, while the KCC Impact Programme focused on community engagement and sustainability initiatives conducted before and after the anniversary celebrations.

As part of the programme, the hotel organised several initiatives reflecting its commitment to sustainability, employee wellbeing and community development. These included the planting of 100 trees, outreach activities with SOS Children's Villages, a Youth Career Day to encourage future hospitality professionals, employee wellness programmes and long-service recognition for team members.

The celebrations also marked the launch of the "10 Years of Impact" documentary, highlighting the property's journey and its contribution to tourism, employment, business events and Rwanda's economy. A dedicated media programme also showcased the hotel's role in supporting the country's hospitality and tourism growth.

Speaking on the milestone, Sandra Kneubühler, Managing Director, Sub-Saharan Africa, Radisson Hotel Group, said:

"Over the past ten years, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali has played an important role in strengthening Rwanda's position as one of Africa's leading destinations for business tourism and international events. This milestone reflects the dedication of our teams, the confidence of our partners and the strong vision that continues to drive Rwanda's hospitality sector forward. We are proud of what has been achieved and remain committed to supporting the country's tourism ambitions, developing local talent and creating meaningful value for the communities in which we operate."

Nice Uwase, Acting General Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali, added:

"While this milestone allowed us to reflect on everything that has been achieved, our focus remains firmly on the future. We look forward to building on this strong foundation, creating new opportunities for our people and partners, and continuing to deliver memorable experiences for guests and delegates from Rwanda and around the world."

The 10th anniversary further reinforced Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali's position as a leading hospitality destination, supporting Rwanda's tourism ambitions while continuing to drive the growth of the country's business events and hospitality sectors.


Muthaiga Travel Showcases ‘Kenya Beyond Safari’ to Indian Travel Trade

Muthaiga Travel Showcases ‘Kenya Beyond Safari’ to Indian Travel Trade

By Hariharan U

Published on April 28, 2026

Muthaiga Travel recently hosted an exclusive webinar titled ‘Kenya Beyond Safari’, aimed at showcasing the country’s diverse travel experiences to Indian travel agents.

Held on April 24, 2026, the session was led by Stephen Opondo, Senior Tours Consultant, along with Lucy Bett. The webinar focused on expanding perceptions of Kenya as a destination that goes beyond its globally renowned wildlife safaris.

While Kenya is widely associated with safari tourism, the presentation highlighted its beachfront destinations, destination wedding opportunities, honeymoon itineraries, and immersive cultural experiences. These offerings position the country as a year-round destination suited for families, couples, and experiential travellers.

The initiative also aimed to strengthen ties with Indian travel partners by identifying agencies aligned with delivering seamless and experience-driven itineraries. The growing demand from India for unique and contemporary travel experiences has created an opportunity for destinations like Kenya to diversify their positioning.

Commenting on the initiative, Mira Bid said, “Kenya has grown over the years to offer tourism attractions to Indian travellers that go beyond the legendary safaris. Through this webinar, we aimed to present these diverse experiences while partnering with key travel partners from India.”

As the Indian outbound travel market continues to expand, such engagements play a key role in driving inbound tourism and destination awareness, positioning Kenya as a versatile and accessible international getaway.


Air Canada Doubles Delhi Toronto Flights Amid Rising Demand

Air Canada Doubles Delhi Toronto Flights Amid Rising Demand

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 11, 2026

Air Canada has increased the frequency of its Delhi–Toronto flights, making the service double daily to meet the rising demand for travel between India and North America.

The move comes at a time when airlines operating between the Middle East and North America are facing capacity challenges. The ongoing Israel-Iran conflict has resulted in the closure of several airspaces across the Middle East, leading to widespread disruption. Many airlines have been forced to cancel or delay flights to the region and on routes that pass through it.

To respond to the growing demand, Canada’s flag carrier is now operating two flights a day between Delhi and Toronto until the end of April. The enhanced schedule is aimed at supporting Indian travellers planning trips to North America during this period.

Under the current schedule, one flight departs from Delhi at 21:45 and arrives in Toronto at 05:00 the following day. The return service leaves Toronto at 19:55 and lands in Delhi at 20:10 the next day.

Travellers looking for more details on schedules and service updates can visit Air Canada’s official website for the latest information on flights between India and Canada.

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