Far East Hospitality Expands in Japan with Two New Hotels in Osaka

Far East Hospitality Expands in Japan with Two New Hotels in Osaka

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 16, 2025

Far East Hospitality is strengthening its foothold in Japan with the launch of two new properties in Osaka under its Far East Village brand. The newly opened Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Namba South and Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Honmachi mark the group’s strategic move to deepen its presence in Japan’s key cities, aiming to operate 2,000 rooms across Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka in the next five years.

These launches reflect Far East Hospitality’s ongoing growth momentum since its Japan debut in 2020, even during global travel challenges. The group already operates hotels in Tokyo Ariake, Yokohama, and Tokyo Asakusa  and now, with these Osaka additions, celebrates five openings in five years.

Located in the heart of Oku-Namba, the 77-room Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Namba South caters to both leisure and business travellers. It’s a stone’s throw from hotspots like Dotonbori and Namba Yasaka Shrine, with excellent connectivity via Daikokucho and Namba Stations—ideal for exploring the Kansai region.

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In contrast, Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Honmachi, with 165 rooms, is tucked inside Chuo-ku, Osaka’s central business district. Just steps away from the iconic Osaka Castle and Minami district, it offers a perfect blend of city convenience and cultural richness.

Speaking about the group’s strategy, Mark Rohner, Chief Operating Officer of Far East Hospitality, said, “Far East Hospitality's expansion into Osaka is a pivotal step towards our five-year goal of expanding to 2,000 rooms in Japan. We are focused on strengthening the Far East Village brand in the country's key cities, particularly those with vibrant business and leisure appeal.”

Far East Hospitality’s expansion is supported by a partnership with Anglo Fortune Capital Group, the company behind the acquisition of these hotels. Benjamin Cho, Principal of the group, added, “Our entry into the Osaka market through the acquisition of two centrally located hotels and our partnership with Far East Hospitality for their management marks an exciting milestone in the continued growth of our hotel portfolio.”

Japan’s tourism industry has seen a strong rebound, with international arrivals surging past pre-pandemic levels. In 2024, the country welcomed a record 36.9 million visitors, reflecting growing interest in culturally rich, immersive travel experiences — something Far East Hospitality aims to offer through its ‘Live Like a Local’ approach.

This signature philosophy encourages travellers to explore the city beyond the usual sights. Guests receive a Village Passport, a locally curated guidebook filled with recommendations on attractions, eateries, and hidden gems—allowing them to experience Osaka as a local would.

With a sharp focus on authentic, purpose-driven hospitality, the group’s approach is not just about stays but about creating a sense of connection with the destination. Personalized service, attention to detail, and warm interactions define the guest experience at Village Hotels.

As Far East Hospitality continues to grow across Japan’s tourism hotspots, its commitment to delivering meaningful and memorable travel experiences remains front and centre and Osaka is just the beginning of this exciting chapter.


Ras Al Khaimah Appoints Phillipa Harrison as CEO of RAKTDA

Ras Al Khaimah Appoints Phillipa Harrison as CEO of RAKTDA

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 26, 2025

The Government of Ras Al Khaimah has announced the appointment of Phillipa Harrison as the new Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

Harrison, who previously served as Managing Director of Tourism Australia, brings with her decades of experience in shaping international tourism strategies across Australia and other global markets. In her new role, she will drive the Emirate’s ambitious vision to become the “Destination of the Future.”

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAKTDA’s Executive Committee, expressed confidence in the appointment. He said, “Tourism is at the heart of Ras Al Khaimah’s strategy, it is our fastest-growing sector and we’ve achieved remarkable milestones in a short period of time. Ms. Harrison brings with her a depth of knowledge and leadership experience, most recently with Tourism Australia, that gives us confidence in her ability to align with Ras Al Khaimah’s ambitious goals and strategic targets in the tourism sector.”

Sharing her thoughts, Harrison said, “I’m honored to join at such an exciting time. Ras Al Khaimah has already established itself as an international success story, and I look forward to unlocking even more growth in the years ahead.”

Her leadership comes at a time when Ras Al Khaimah is recording strong growth in tourism, with over 650,000 visitors in the first half of 2025. The Emirate is now working toward achieving its target of welcoming more than 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030, further strengthening its position as a leading sustainable tourism destination.


InterGlobe’s Miiro Expands to Austria with Palais Rudolf in Vienna

InterGlobe’s Miiro Expands to Austria with Palais Rudolf in Vienna

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 26, 2025

InterGlobe Enterprises’ boutique hospitality brand Miiro has announced the opening of its fifth hotel in Europe, Miiro Palais Rudolf in Vienna, Austria, scheduled for December 2025. The expansion reinforces Miiro’s rapid growth in Europe, following the successful launch of hotels in Paris, Barcelona, Gstaad, and London.

Located on a tranquil square overlooking Rudolfspark in Vienna’s Old Town, Palais Rudolf blends seamlessly into the historic neighborhood, just steps away from the Vienna State Opera, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and Hofburg Palace. The 64-room townhouse-style property offers a timeless retreat, combining warm tones, vintage-inspired design, and antiques sourced from Vienna’s cultural heritage.

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Guests can enjoy Miiro’s signature lifestyle touch with a light-filled Italian restaurant, an atmospheric bar, a state-of-the-art gym, and the brand’s unique Refresh Room. The dining spaces are designed to welcome locals and travelers alike, offering a rhythm that flows from morning coffee to late-night cocktails.

Neena Gupta, CEO of Miiro and Executive Director of Group Strategy & International Hospitality at InterGlobe Enterprises, said:
“We are thrilled to announce the launch of Miiro Palais Rudolf, marking our fifth hotel opening in just 16 months. Following successful openings in Paris, Barcelona, Gstaad, and London, this launch highlights our focus on bringing the brand's promise of ‘Brilliantly Considered Stays’ to new markets. We look forward to welcoming guests in Vienna this December.”

To mark its debut, Palais Rudolf is offering 20% off the best available rate, plus €30 credit for on-site experiences. Reservations are open on the official website.

The launch reflects InterGlobe’s continued strategy of curating immersive, culture-driven stays that connect travelers with local communities. Miiro already operates hotels in Paris, Barcelona, London, and Gstaad, with new projects underway, including a second Vienna property in Spittelberg slated for 2026.


Ras Al Khaimah Emerges as One of the Fastest-Growing Real Estate Markets in the Region

Ras Al Khaimah Emerges as One of the Fastest-Growing Real Estate Markets in the Region

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 21, 2025

Ras Al Khaimah is rapidly cementing its position as one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing real estate markets in the United Arab Emirates. Driven by the forward-looking vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the Emirate is undergoing a remarkable transformation anchored in sustainability, community well-being and smart urban planning.

In the last three years, property sales and prices in the Emirate have surged, propelled by major hospitality, residential and commercial developments. With the population expected to rise from 0.4 million to 0.65 million by 2030, demand for an estimated 45,000 additional homes is on the horizon. This growth has attracted both global developers such as Emaar, Aldar and Ellington and local leaders including Marjan, Al Hamra and RAK Properties.

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Al Marjan Island has emerged as a flagship destination in this transformation. Under the leadership of CEO Eng. Abdullah Al Abdooli, it is welcoming iconic luxury brands including Wynn, JW Marriott, Nobu, Missoni and The Address. Further expanding Ras Al Khaimah’s commercial ecosystem, Marjan is developing RAK Central, set to become one of the Northern Emirates’ largest business districts, with Grade-A offices and sustainable infrastructure.

Al Hamra, led by CEO Benoy Kurien, continues to shape community living with Al Hamra Village’s 4,000+ homes, golf course and vibrant community. The group is also spearheading projects such as Waldorf Astoria Residences, Falcon Island, Al Hamra Waterfront and Manar Mall, the Emirate’s most popular retail hub.

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RAK Properties, through its landmark Mina development, is redefining the Emirate’s shoreline. Already hosting world-class resorts like Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah and InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah, it is gearing up to welcome Nikki Beach, Staybridge Suites and a Four Seasons. Commenting on this momentum, Chairman Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Zaabi said, “We are creating a vibrant, sustainable environment that is attracting global investment while maintaining the unique culture and natural heritage of our Emirate.” CEO Sameh Muhtadi added, “We are witnessing unprecedented global interest and this momentum will only continue.”

Supporting this real estate boom is Ras Al Khaimah’s strong infrastructure: eight hospitals including RAK Hospital, a modern education ecosystem, and its ranking among the world’s safest places. Tourism further strengthens the Emirate’s appeal, with 1.28 million visitors in 2024 enjoying attractions like Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline and the UAE’s highest-altitude restaurant, 1484 by Puro.

At the heart of it all lies Ras Al Khaimah’s 2030 Vision, a people-first development strategy focused on sustainability, inclusivity and global competitiveness. With its rising skyline, thriving communities and investor-friendly ecosystem, the Emirate is emerging as a benchmark for urban growth, lifestyle innovation and long-term prosperity.

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