Ascott Targets 12,000 Units in India by 2028, Expands Brand Footprint and Outbound Strategy

Ascott Targets 12,000 Units in India by 2028, Expands Brand Footprint and Outbound Strategy

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 13, 2025

The Ascott Limited, wholly owned by CapitaLand Investment, has announced its ambitious goal to double its portfolio in India to 12,000 units by 2028. This update came during the 20th Hotel Investment Conference – South Asia (HICSA) in Mumbai, where CEO Kevin Goh shared insights on "Redefining Global Living."

With about 5,500 units at the end of 2024, Ascott is riding a wave of expansion. It has signed three new properties under the Oakwood brand in Goa, Lucknow, and Thanjavur, adding 600 more units and bringing its total portfolio to approximately 6,100 units across 22 properties in India.

Mr. Kevin Goh, CEO, highlighted India as a key growth market, citing its growing middle class, higher disposable incomes, and increasing infrastructure. He added, "The supply of branded hotel rooms in India remains limited, creating a strong demand-supply gap that Ascott is well-positioned to fill."

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One of the notable signings is the 150-key Oakwood Sensation Dona Paula Goa, strategically located near the popular Dona Paula jetty. Scheduled to open in 2028, this property aims to cater to both leisure and business travellers. This addition follows Oakwood Thanjavur and Oakwood Ekana Sportz City Lucknow—both set to open by 2029, expanding Ascott’s reach into Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

Mr. Lee Ngor Houai, COO for EMEA, South Asia, and China, shared that while 85% of Ascott’s current operations are in Tier-1 cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad, the brand is actively moving into lesser-explored locations. “We’re tapping into India's growing interest in culturally rich and authentic destinations,” he said.

Ascott is also introducing three new brands—lyf, The Crest Collection, and The Unlimited Collection—to meet the evolving needs of Gen Z and millennial travellers. lyf, launched in Singapore in 2019, is geared toward community-focused stays and is expected to resonate well with India’s urban digital nomads.

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The company is further capitalising on India's rise as a key outbound travel market. With a young population and increasing leisure spending, Ascott is leveraging its 14-brand global portfolio to attract Indian tourists to its international properties. At SATTE 2025, Ascott’s global sales team engaged with industry stakeholders to boost outbound business.

In terms of recent progress, Ascott opened its first Tier-2 city property, Citadines Arpora Nagoa Goa, and signed new projects in Navi Mumbai, Electronic City Bangalore, and Faridabad. By 2026, Ascott aims to operate 11 properties in India, including the debut of Ascott Ireo City Gurugram—its first property under the flagship Ascott brand in the country.

With a clear vision and strong regional strategy, Ascott is set to redefine the hospitality experience in India while positioning the country as a vital hub for global travel.


ITC Hotels Expands Storii Portfolio with Jawai Retreat

ITC Hotels Expands Storii Portfolio with Jawai Retreat

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 6, 2026

ITC Hotels Limited has announced the opening of Storii Jawai in Rajasthan, adding the 11th property to its Storii portfolio. The boutique retreat is designed as a nature-led destination, reflecting the growing interest in experiential and eco-sensitive travel across India.

Located in the Jawai region, the property is surrounded by landscapes known for leopard sightings, granite hills, and the Jawai River ecosystem. The area is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, making it a unique destination for travellers looking to connect with nature and wildlife.

Developed in partnership with 1st Gate Luxe Pvt. Ltd., the property highlights ITC Hotels’ focus on expanding through collaborations while building immersive travel experiences.

The retreat features 15 keys, designed to blend safari-style elements with modern comfort. Guests are welcomed through a tented reception that leads to a colonial-style bungalow serving as the central lounge and bar. The accommodation is spread across villas set within a preserved natural setting, with features such as private courtyards, plunge pools, and tented structures. The design ensures minimal impact on the environment while offering a stay that reflects the region’s character.

Facilities include an infinity pool set on a hillock overlooking a natural lake, along with spaces for wellness and outdoor activities. The experience is further enhanced with wildlife exploration programmes and curated dining, catering to travellers seeking more meaningful and destination-led stays.

Commenting on the launch, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, “We are delighted to open the 11th Storii in Jawai. An intimate 15 key boutique retreat that distils the essence of quiet comforts in the wild, Jawai stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of modern innovation and timeless tradition. Storii Jawai is our tribute to the beauty and resilience of this region”.

Bharat Kumar Singh, Promoter, 1st Gate Luxe Pvt. Ltd., added, “As people from the soil, Storii Jawai reflects our belief in Rajasthani culture and traditions. It has been a humbling experience for us to be able to build a space for fellow travellers to come and immerse in our hinterland. We are grateful to associate with ITC Hotels Limited who reflect our values and vision, and have been with us shoulder to shoulder to make it happen”.

The launch also reflects rising demand for destinations that combine ecological sensitivity with cultural depth, especially in regions like Jawai that are closely connected to local communities such as the Rabari community.


Indian Hotels Company Limited Unveils Eternity Kanpur Under SeleQtions Brand

Indian Hotels Company Limited Unveils Eternity Kanpur Under SeleQtions Brand

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited has unveiled Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, marking the debut of the SeleQtions brand in Kanpur, one of Uttar Pradesh’s key commercial and industrial centres.

Highlighting the significance of the launch, Ms. Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President – New Businesses & Hotel Openings, IHCL, said, “Kanpur, a vital commercial and industrial centre is witnessing rapid growth with its evolving infrastructure and increasing connectivity. The opening of Eternity, Kanpur, IHCL SeleQtions addresses the growing demand from corporate, MICE and social segments.”

Strategically located on NH-91, away from the city’s bustle, the hotel features 104 neo-classical rooms offering views of the cityscape. The property is designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers with a mix of comfort, connectivity, and modern amenities.

Dining options include Célesté, an all-day dining restaurant; Thea, a bar serving European-inspired cocktails along with an exclusive cigar lounge; and Aurumn the Lounge. Guests can also enjoy wellness facilities such as a spa, swimming pool, and a fully equipped gym.

For events and gatherings, the hotel offers expansive banquet and meeting spaces. The largest banquet hall spans over 11,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for conferences, conventions, and social celebrations.

Mr. Jalpreet Sodhi, General Manager, Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, said, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Eternity - IHCL SeleQtions and offering a memorable experience in the culturally rich city of Kanpur.”

Located along the banks of the Ganga, Kanpur is known for its strong industrial legacy in leather, textiles, and manufacturing, making it an important commercial hub in North India. With this launch, IHCL continues to strengthen its presence in growing urban markets across the country.


Long Weekend Retreats to Reset After the Year-End Rush

Long Weekend Retreats to Reset After the Year-End Rush

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

After weeks of deadlines, financial closures, and the usual rush that comes with March, the Good Friday long weekend arrives at just the right time. Sitting right at the end of the financial year, it offers a chance to step away from routine, take a breather, and begin April with a clearer mind. Whether it’s the calm of a coffee estate, the stillness of backwaters, or the fresh air of the mountains, a short getaway can make all the difference.

At Evolve Back Coorg, the surroundings naturally slow things down. Set amid coffee plantations and rainforest landscapes, the experience here is all about quiet moments. Mornings begin with misty walks, followed by relaxed breakfasts, spa time, and peaceful hours by a private pool, making it easy to switch off from work mode.

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For those who prefer a deeper disconnect, The Tamara Coorg offers forest-lined cottages and sweeping hill views. The calm setting encourages slower mornings and evenings without screens, allowing travellers to gently ease out of the stress of work and return feeling lighter.

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If a slower pace by the water sounds more appealing, Coconut Lagoon provides a refreshing change. Surrounded by the backwaters of Kumarakom, the experience is simple and unhurried, with boat rides, sunset views, and traditional wellness therapies creating a sense of balance without the need for a packed schedule.

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For a more complete wellness reset, Ananda in the Himalayas stands out as a destination focused on mental and physical well-being. With meditation, personalised wellness programmes, and the calming influence of the mountains, even a short stay here helps restore focus and energy.

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Similarly, Six Senses Vana offers a more guided approach to relaxation. Instead of a typical holiday, it focuses on mindful routines and holistic wellness, helping guests return feeling calmer, more balanced, and ready for the weeks ahead.

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Not every break needs to be long to make an impact. Sometimes, a few days in the right environment is enough to reset both mind and body. With peaceful surroundings and thoughtful hospitality, these retreats offer a simple yet meaningful way to step into April with renewed energy.

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