Avani Hotels & Resorts Prepares for its Grand Entry into Greater China

Avani Hotels & Resorts Prepares for its Grand Entry into Greater China

By Author

Published on February 25, 2024

Minor Hotels, a global hotel owner, operator, and investor with a portfolio spanning over 540 hotels in 56 countries, alongside its joint venture partner in China, Funyard Minor JV Co., (China), is set to introduce Avani Hotels & Resorts to China. The debut features two new properties, Avani Huajian Xinyi Guangdong Resort and Avani + Xinyi Guangdong Resort, located in Guangdong Province's protected national forest area. Slated for opening in the first half of 2024, these resorts will be among the first international upscale hotel brands in Xinyi, marking a significant milestone for Minor Hotels and the hospitality landscape in the area.

Designed to blend leisure, culture, and ecotourism, Avani's properties will play a pivotal role in the development of a zone encompassing hotels, commercial blocks, and residential holiday villas. This initiative aims to offer guests an immersive cultural experience, deeply inspired by ancient Chinese traditions.

Avani Huajian Xinyi Guangdong Resort, nestled beside the River Huanghua in Shuanghe Village, will boast 86 spacious rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant specializing in Gaoliang cuisine, an AvaniFit gym, and Xinyi’s first infinity sky pool. Catering to families, the resort will feature themed kids' rooms, ensuring a perfect balance between relaxation and play.

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In contrast, Avani+ Xinyi Guangdong Resort, surrounded by bamboo forests in Ma’an Village, will offer 96 modern rooms and suites, some equipped with private balconies and pools. Facilities include a contemporary all-day dining restaurant, a bar, an infinity pool, an AvaniFit gym, and an AvaniKids club, all designed to foster relaxation amidst nature.

Xinyi is emerging as a prime ecotourism destination, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. Attractions include alpine meadows, expansive bamboo forests, mountain lakes, hot springs, and award-winning ecotourism spots. The region also hosts the popular Fruit Festival, drawing over a million visitors annually to celebrate the locally grown Sanhua plum.

Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels, expressed enthusiasm about the brand's entry into China, emphasizing the commitment to creating culturally immersive experiences for guests. Eddy Tiftik, Vice President of Development & Operations, Minor Hotels, Greater China, highlighted the properties' integration with nature and their appeal to guests seeking a destination hotel.

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Avani Hotels & Resorts continues to grow, with plans for further openings in Asia, Europe, the Seychelles, South, and Central America in 2024. Minor Hotels' expansion into Greater China with Avani signifies a strategic move to capture the preferences of modern travelers, offering them an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and nature.

About Minor Hotels:

Minor Hotels is a leading international hotel owner, operator, and investor with over 540 properties worldwide. The company's diverse portfolio caters to various types of travelers, offering new passions and personal needs through brands like Anantara, Avani, Oaks, Tivoli, and others. With a vision of a more passionate and interconnected world, Minor Hotels continues to explore new possibilities in hospitality, expanding its brands and exploring strategic acquisitions in opportunistic markets.


Brigade Hospitality Rebrands MLR Convention Centre Whitefield as MLR Cultural Centre

Brigade Hospitality Rebrands MLR Convention Centre Whitefield as MLR Cultural Centre

By Hariharan U

Published on August 5, 2026

Brigade Hospitality has announced the rebranding of its MLR Convention Centre Whitefield as MLR Cultural Centre, marking the venue’s transformation into an emerging destination for arts, culture, and creative expression in Bengaluru.

The rebranding includes a refreshed logo and updated visual identity, reflecting the venue’s evolving role as a platform for cultural engagement. Over recent years, MLR Cultural Centre has expanded beyond traditional conferences and corporate events to host a diverse range of artistic experiences, including music, theatre, dance, literature, and performing arts.

The new identity recognises this journey and reinforces the venue’s commitment to creating meaningful cultural experiences by bringing together artists, audiences, and creative communities.

The nomenclature and visual identity of Brigade Hospitality’s MLR Convention Centre in JP Nagar will remain unchanged.

Commenting on the rebranding, Gurmeet Singh, Assistant Vice President, Brigade Hospitality, said that the identity change reflects the transition the venue has undergone, with cultural activities becoming a stronger focus while continuing to accommodate conferences and corporate events.

He added that the vision is to establish MLR Cultural Centre as a space where artists, audiences, and ideas come together to celebrate India’s vibrant cultural fabric and create memorable experiences.

The rebranding marks a new chapter for MLR Cultural Centre as it strengthens its position as a leading destination for art, music, and cultural performances in Bengaluru and beyond.


WelcomHeritage Launches Kurki Palace in Jaipur, Celebrating Rajasthan’s Royal Legacy

WelcomHeritage Launches Kurki Palace in Jaipur, Celebrating Rajasthan’s Royal Legacy

By Hariharan U

Published on August 4, 2026

WelcomHeritage has expanded its presence in Rajasthan with the launch of WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace, a boutique heritage hotel in Jaipur that brings together royal Rajput traditions, architectural grandeur, and contemporary luxury hospitality.

Located within a peaceful residential enclave in Jaipur, the palace offers guests a serene retreat while providing convenient access to the city’s iconic forts, palaces, and cultural landmarks. Hosted by descendants of the renowned Ranbanka Rathore family of Kurki Fort, whose lineage traces back to the 23rd generation of saint-poet Mirabai, the property offers travellers an opportunity to experience Rajasthan’s living heritage.

Inspired by traditional Rajasthani havelis, WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace reflects a blend of Marwari, Mughal, and European architectural influences. The property features grand sandstone structures, stained-glass windows, antique artefacts, intricate craftsmanship, and family heirlooms that showcase the region’s rich artistic legacy.

The palace offers 34 luxurious accommodations, including one Maharaja Suite, four Maharani Suites, 18 Executive Mahal Rooms, and 11 Rawla Deluxe Rooms. Each room has been designed with handcrafted furnishings, regional artistry, and modern amenities to provide guests with an immersive heritage stay experience.

The property features four distinctive dining venues — Darbar – The Sky Lounge, Swarn Mahal, Badal Mahal, and Sugar Coated Café — offering curated culinary experiences inspired by Rajasthan’s flavours and artistic traditions.

Beyond accommodation and dining, WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace offers a range of wellness and leisure facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, and curated relaxation spaces. The property also caters to destination weddings, private celebrations, and MICE events through elegant venues such as Darbar Banquet, Darbar Rooftop, and Badal Mahal.

With bespoke event services and parking capacity for up to 500 vehicles, the palace provides a regal setting for large-scale celebrations, corporate gatherings, and intimate occasions.

Aligned with responsible hospitality practices, the property incorporates solar energy into its operations, combining sustainability with heritage preservation.

Speaking on the launch, Ashutosh Chhibba, CEO, WelcomHeritage, said that WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace represents the brand’s vision of preserving India’s cultural legacy while creating contemporary hospitality experiences. He added that the property strengthens WelcomHeritage’s presence in Jaipur and offers travellers an authentic gateway to Rajasthan’s timeless charm.

Chhibba further noted that the launch marks WelcomHeritage’s 11th property in Rajasthan and takes the brand’s overall portfolio to 37 properties across India. He highlighted Rajasthan’s importance to the brand’s heritage hospitality journey and reiterated the company’s focus on creating destinations that travellers actively seek for unique cultural experiences.

Strategically located near Jaipur International Airport and Jaipur Railway Station, the palace provides easy access to major attractions including Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, and Nahargarh Fort, making it an ideal base for exploring Jaipur’s heritage and vibrant culture.


ITC Hotels Celebrate Friendship Day with Curated Dining Experiences Across India

ITC Hotels Celebrate Friendship Day with Curated Dining Experiences Across India

By Hariharan U

Published on August 1, 2026

Friendship Day is a celebration of the bonds that bring people together through shared memories, meaningful conversations, and unforgettable experiences. This year, ITC Hotels is inviting guests across India to celebrate friendship with a series of specially curated dining experiences featuring indulgent menus, unique activities, and warm hospitality.

From elegant ladies' lunches and contemporary culinary journeys to lavish brunches and chocolate-making experiences, ITC Hotels' properties across Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Hyderabad are offering memorable ways to reconnect with friends.

Celebrate Friendship with a Ladies' Lunch at ITC Grand Central Mumbai

ITC Grand Central Mumbai is celebrating Friendship Day with a special Ladies' Lunch at Hornby's Pavilion, offering an afternoon of great food, conversations, and togetherness.

Designed for groups of friends, ladies' groups of eight or more can enjoy 20% savings for up to 20 guests while experiencing an elaborate multicuisine lunch on 30 July 2026.

Located within the iconic luxury hotel, Hornby's Pavilion offers an all-day dining experience featuring flavours from India's culinary heritage alongside global favourites, complemented by elegant surroundings and attentive service.

Event Details:
Venue: Hornby's Pavilion, ITC Grand Central, Mumbai
Date: 30 July 2026
Meal: Lunch
Offer: 20% savings for ladies' groups of 8 or more (up to 20 guests)
Reservations: 022 – 67045121 / 022 – 67045122

Friendship Day Celebrations at ITC Maurya, Delhi

ITC Maurya invites guests to celebrate Friendship Day with a selection of distinctive dining experiences across its renowned restaurants.

Guests can explore contemporary South Indian cuisine at Avartana, enjoy an Italian brunch at Ottimo At West View, or celebrate timeless Indian flavours at iconic restaurants Bukhara and Dum Pukht.

The hotel also offers an elaborate dining experience at The Pavilion, featuring Indian and international favourites, live cooking stations, and signature desserts. For those seeking a creative experience, Fabelle presents an artisanal chocolate-making journey where guests can craft and enjoy their own chocolate creations.

Venue: ITC Maurya, Sardar Patel Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
Date: 2 August 2026
Time: 12:30 PM onwards
Reservations: 011 2611 2233

Raise a Toast to Friendship at ITC Royal Bengal and ITC Sonar, Kolkata

ITC Royal Bengal and ITC Sonar are bringing together a collection of dining experiences that celebrate friendships through food, flavours, and shared moments.

At Eden Pavilion, ITC Sonar, guests can enjoy Sunday Slows Down, a relaxed Friendship Day brunch featuring global and local favourites from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. The experience is priced at ₹1,800 plus taxes per person.

At Grand Market Pavilion, ITC Royal Bengal, the Grand Sunday Brunch celebrates Anglo-Indian culinary traditions with gourmet offerings, signature delicacies, and indulgent desserts. The brunch is available from 1:00 PM to 3:45 PM at ₹2,300 plus taxes per person.

For guests seeking an elevated culinary experience, Avartana at ITC Royal Bengal presents the Kimaya Set Menu, showcasing contemporary interpretations of South Indian cuisine. Available for lunch and dinner, the experience is priced at ₹3,500 plus taxes per person.

Reservations: 033 44464646

Craft, Indulge and Bond with Fabelle at ITC Kohenur

ITC Kohenur invites guests to celebrate Friendship Day with an immersive Fabelle Chocolate Masterclass, offering a journey through the world of fine chocolate.

The experience includes a guided bean-to-bar chocolate journey, chocolate tasting, sensory experiences, hands-on chocolate making, and an opportunity to craft a personalised dessert to take home.

Guests can also enjoy a signature hot chocolate experience, receive a complimentary Fabelle Signature Chocolate Delight, and capture memorable moments with friends.

What's Included:

  • Hot Chocolate Experience
  • Guided Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Journey
  • Chocolate Tasting & Sensory Experience
  • Hands-on Chocolate Making Session
  • Craft Your Own Dessert
  • Complimentary Fabelle Signature Chocolate Delight

Date: 2 August 2026
Price: ₹2,995 for 2 adults (inclusive of taxes)
Additional Adult/Child: ₹995 (inclusive of taxes)

Friends, Flavours and Forever at ITC Kohenur Hyderabad

ITC Kohenur Hyderabad will celebrate Friendship Day with a special brunch experience, Friends, Flavours, Forever, at Golkonda Pavilion.

Designed for friends to reconnect and celebrate together, the brunch brings together exceptional flavours, handcrafted delicacies, and a vibrant setting within the landmark hotel inspired by the legacy of the Koh-i-Noor diamond and Deccan heritage.

Guests can enjoy a selection of global and regional favourites while spending quality time with friends over a leisurely afternoon of dining and conversations.

Event Details:
Venue: Golkonda Pavilion, ITC Kohenur, Hyderabad
Date: 2 August 2026
Time: 1:00 PM onwards
Meal: Brunch

With thoughtfully curated experiences across its hotels, ITC Hotels continues to create meaningful celebrations where friendships are strengthened over exceptional cuisine, memorable moments, and warm hospitality.

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