The hospitality industry is entering a new phase where legacy technologies are being left behind. With support for older systems like magstripe and traditional RFID locks gradually coming to an end, hotels are now faced with a clear decision to upgrade.

What was once considered modern is now becoming outdated.

RFID locks, while reliable in the past, no longer meet the expectations of today’s mobile first guests. Key cards are easily lost, duplicated, or demagnetized, and maintaining these systems is becoming increasingly difficult as industry support declines.

In contrast, Bluetooth Low Energy locks [BLE] are built for the way guests travel today.

With BLE, smartphones become secure digital keys. Guests can check in before arrival, skip the front desk, and access their rooms instantly. The experience becomes seamless, fast, and completely contactless.

Security is also significantly enhanced. BLE locks use advanced technologies like AES 128 encryption and mutual authentication, making them far more secure than traditional key based systems. Hotels gain the ability to issue and revoke access remotely, monitor usage, and maintain full control in real time.

Global leaders such as Onity, Dormakaba, SALTO and ASSA ABLOY VingCard are already driving this shift, making BLE locks the new benchmark for modern hotels.

However, upgrading to BLE locks is only part of the transformation. To truly deliver a connected and seamless guest journey, hotels need a platform that brings access, services, and operations together.

This is where products like GuestEzee are playing a key role globally.

GuestEzee is a comprehensive guest management platform designed for the digital era of hospitality. It enables guests to complete check in before arrival, use their mobile phones as room keys through BLE integration, and access all hotel services through a single app. From in room dining to service requests, everything becomes faster, simpler, and more intuitive.

For hotels, GuestEzee integrates with multiple PMS systems, door lock technologies, and F and B POS platforms. This flexibility allows it to work across all types of properties, from independent hotels to large chains and serviced accommodations. It reduces operational dependency on the front desk while enhancing guest satisfaction and efficiency.

With solutions like GuestEzee now available worldwide, the adoption of BLE locks has become easier, more scalable, and more practical for hotels of all sizes.

The shift from RFID to BLE is no longer optional. It is a necessary step toward building smarter, safer, and more connected hotels.

Because in today’s hospitality landscape, the experience begins at the door, and the future opens with BLE.

Cinnamon Bentota Beach – Signature Selection brought together creativity and celebration with an exclusive Signature Bar Takeover at Fuze Bar, featuring Indian mixologist Ami Shroff. The two-day experience was curated to mark the spirit of global celebrations that honour women and their achievements, creating a space that blended craft, conversation, and connection.

Set along the calm coastal surroundings of Bentota, the evening offered guests a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. The specially curated cocktail menu showcased a mix of familiar flavours with creative twists, while subtle flair bartending added a touch of movement and charm to the experience. Ami’s presence behind the bar stood out for its ease and confidence, engaging guests while keeping the focus on the overall experience.

The following day, the celebration continued with a hands-on workshop led by Ami for the resort’s Food & Beverage team and young hospitality enthusiasts. The session focused on practical techniques, emerging trends, and the basics of cocktail making, offering valuable insights into the evolving world of mixology.

Recognised as one of India’s pioneering female mixologists, Ami Shroff has built a strong presence in the industry over more than two decades. She has played an important role in shaping modern bar culture in India, combining performance with technical skill. Her achievements include being named Mixologist of the Year at the INCA Awards in 2019, and she is widely known for encouraging innovation while supporting greater female representation in the field.

The event at Cinnamon Bentota Beach – Signature Selection highlighted mixology as an engaging and collaborative part of hospitality, while also celebrating Women’s Day through a meaningful and well-curated experience.

Courtyard by Marriott has officially entered Andhra Pradesh with the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Tirupati, bringing its signature hospitality to one of India’s busiest spiritual destinations. The 130-key hotel marks the brand’s first presence in the state and is designed to cater to pilgrims, business travellers, and leisure guests alike.

Located in the temple city of Tirupati, home to the revered Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, the hotel benefits from strong connectivity. It is just a short 15 minutes’ drive from the railway station and around 20 minutes from Tirupati Airport, making it a convenient choice for travellers arriving from across the country. The property blends a calm and welcoming atmosphere with modern comforts, offering a stay experience that feels both relaxing and efficient.

“This opening represents an important milestone in our growth strategy in India, as we continue to expand our footprint in high-demand destinations and enter newer markets with strong travel potential”. Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International commented, “Tirupati is one of the country’s most prominent spiritual destinations, drawing significant year-round footfall, and establishing a presence here is a meaningful achievement for us. It reflects our ambition to serve a broader spectrum of guests and to bring trusted, high-quality hospitality to destinations where travel demand is both substantial and evolving. Courtyard by Marriott is well positioned to serve a destination like Tirupati, where travelers are looking for comfort, connectivity, and a stay experience that is both seamless and relevant.”

The hotel features 130 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites that focus on both comfort and functionality. With ample natural light, plush bedding, and well-equipped workspaces supported by high-speed connectivity, the spaces are created to suit both relaxation and productivity. Guests can unwind at the spa, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or maintain their fitness routine at the 24/7 gym.

Dining at the hotel brings together a variety of experiences through its three food and beverage venues. The Kitchen Collective serves as the all-day dining restaurant, offering a mix of global favourites, wellness-inspired dishes, and authentic Andhra flavours. The Spirit Society provides a stylish lounge setting with crafted cocktails and small plates, ideal for both casual meetings and evening downtime. For a more laid-back experience, Deck9 offers poolside dining with refreshing beverages and a selection of local and international bites.

The hotel also stands out as a strong venue for events and celebrations, with over 6,220 sq. ft. of banquet and meeting space. At the centre is a grand pillarless ballroom, supported by flexible venues that can host weddings, corporate meetings, conferences, and social gatherings. With modern facilities and elegant design, the property is set to become a preferred choice for large-scale events in the city.

Speaking on the opening, Samata Danday Chand, General Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Tirupati shared, "We are delighted to introduce Courtyard by Marriott to Tirupati, a city that holds immense cultural and spiritual significance. The hotel is aimed at creating an environment where great things can happen, enabling our guests to focus on their journeys, or simply relax. Connecting travelers through comfortable and innovative spaces, intuitive service and a commitment to personal fulfilment is at the foundation of what we offer at Courtyard by Marriott Tirupati, while also creating a vibrant destination for memorable gatherings.”

The hotel is part of Marriott Bonvoy, the brand’s travel programme that allows members to earn and redeem points across its wide portfolio of hotels and resorts. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, guests can also enjoy a more personalised and contactless experience during their stay.

For reservations and more information, guests can visit the official website.