First Hospitality Expands with New Hotels and Restaurants

First Hospitality Expands with New Hotels and Restaurants

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 28, 2024

First Hospitality, a leading hotel management and development company, has recently expanded its portfolio by adding three new lifestyle hotels and seven restaurants. This move brings their total to over 25 lifestyle properties within a broader collection of 70 hotels. Notably, this expansion includes their first international property.

The new hotels under First Hospitality's management include the upcoming Hotel Ardent in Dayton, Ohio, the Lively Hotel in Oklahoma City, and the recently opened Tempo by Hilton Louisville Downtown NuLu in Kentucky. These additions are part of First Hospitality's strategic plan to enhance its presence in key markets.

Opened on May 1, 2024, the Tempo by Hilton Louisville Downtown NuLu features 130 rooms. This vibrant hotel is designed to reflect the lively NuLu neighborhood, providing stylish spaces for social gatherings and events. The hotel offers two dining options: the Moonsong Bar + Café on the first floor and the High Stakes Grill, a rooftop restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining and a spectacular view of the skyline. This property embodies the dynamic spirit of the NuLu area, making it a destination for both locals and travelers.

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Scheduled to open in the fall of 2024, Hotel Ardent in Dayton will be part of Hilton's Tapestry Collection. This 118-room boutique hotel will feature Bistecca, a Tuscan steakhouse serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a menu inspired by Italian cuisine. The addition of this property marks a significant step in First Hospitality's expansion into new markets, particularly within the boutique hotel segment.

The Lively Hotel in Oklahoma City is set to open in late August 2024. This 132-key boutique hotel is a critical part of the OAK mixed-use community. As First Hospitality’s first property in Oklahoma, it will also be the first Tapestry Collection by Hilton in the state. The hotel will include the Cloud Puncher restaurant, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with poolside service. The development of this property is a collaboration with Veritas Development and Gatehouse Capital, highlighting First Hospitality's ability to form strategic partnerships.

Alongside its hotel expansions, First Hospitality has also assumed management of seven new restaurants, increasing its portfolio to over 30 dining establishments. Among these is the internationally anticipated Carnivale Bahamas on Paradise Island, set to open this fall. Modeled after the original Carnivale in Chicago, this venue will feature 15,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor spaces, serving pan-Latin cuisine and craft cocktails. This marks First Hospitality’s first international restaurant venture, promising to bring vibrant energy to Paradise Island.

Other recent additions include Coa at The Drake Oak Brook in Oak Brook, Illinois, which opened on March 25, and Assembly American Brasserie in downtown Toledo, Ohio, which opened in late January. These restaurants highlight First Hospitality's commitment to offering diverse and high-quality dining experiences.

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David Duncan, CEO of First Hospitality, expressed excitement about the company’s growth, particularly in new markets. “With the expert skill set of our teams and proprietary technology and operating platform, First Hospitality is well positioned to continue to expand in lifestyle accommodations and restaurants as we approach our 40-year company milestone,” Duncan stated. He also highlighted the significance of their first international venture with Carnivale Bahamas, which aims to bring a new level of energy to Paradise Island.

First Hospitality's recent expansions reflect its strategic focus on enhancing its lifestyle offerings and entering new markets, ensuring continued growth and innovation in the hospitality industry. For more information about their properties and upcoming openings, visit First Hospitality's website.


Taj Expands Bhutan's Luxury Travel Experience with Resorts in Paro and Gangtey

Taj Expands Bhutan's Luxury Travel Experience with Resorts in Paro and Gangtey

By Hariharan U

Published on November 10, 2026

Taj is showcasing a different side of luxury travel in Bhutan through two resort experiences set amid the Himalayan landscapes of Paro and Phobjikha Valley. With a focus on local architecture, cultural immersion and wellness, Taj Paro Resort & Spa and Taj Gangtey Resort & Spa offer travellers opportunities to experience Bhutan beyond its scenic mountain views.

Taj Paro Resort & Spa: A Stay Amid the Himalayan Heritage

Located in Paro Valley, with views of the revered Tiger's Nest Monastery, the 45-key Taj Paro Resort & Spa, Bhutan draws inspiration from the region's architectural traditions. Its design incorporates local stone, reclaimed wood and handcrafted elements created by Bhutanese artisans.

Dining and social experiences are spread across several venues. Vista serves regional and international cuisine, while Paro Lounge & Bar offers signature cocktails and rare whiskies. The Suja Tea Lounge provides a quieter setting for guests to enjoy tea.

The resort also introduces visitors to Bhutanese traditions through folk performances, artisan-led workshops, prayer flag rituals, traditional archery and culinary experiences inspired by local culture.

Taj Gangtey Resort & Spa: Discovering Phobjikha Valley

Set in the pristine Phobjikha Valley, the 35-key Taj Gangtey Resort & Spa, Bhutan is positioned within one of the country's celebrated natural landscapes. The property has been designed to complement its surroundings, with sweeping views of the valley.

Guests can spend time by the fire at Chang Lounge & Bar, enjoy meals at Vista or explore local spirits and handcrafted teas at the Gangtey Lounge.

The resort's cultural experiences include opportunities to shape a clay stupa under the guidance of monks, walk the historic route to Gangtey Monastery and print traditional prayer flags. Guests may also observe seasonal sightings of the revered black-necked cranes, which make the valley an important destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Wellness Inspired by Bhutanese Traditions

At both properties, wellness experiences draw on Bhutan's emphasis on mindfulness and a balanced way of life. Guided meditation, prayer ceremonies and mindfulness sessions offer opportunities for reflection.

The J Wellness Circle, Taj's signature spa, features therapies inspired by Ayurveda and Bhutanese healing traditions. Guests can also experience a traditional Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath. Additional facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool and fitness centre.

Suite Surprises at Both Resorts

Travellers planning a stay at either property can avail the Suite Surprises offer, available throughout the year. The offer includes 15% savings on suite stays, along with daily breakfast, early check-in, access to the Taj Club Lounge and airport transfers.

Through its properties in Paro and Gangtey, Taj brings together Bhutan's natural landscapes, cultural traditions and wellness practices within two distinct luxury hospitality settings.

Resort Information

  • Taj Paro Resort & Spa, Bhutan: Official website

  • Taj Gangtey Resort & Spa, Bhutan: Official website

  • Offer: Suite Surprises

  • Benefits: 15% savings on suite stays, daily breakfast, early check-in, Taj Club Lounge access and airport transfers


Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai Andheri West Celebrates First Anniversary

Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai Andheri West Celebrates First Anniversary

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 6, 2026

Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai Andheri West has celebrated its first anniversary, marking a year of welcoming guests and building its presence in Mumbai's hospitality landscape. The hotel opened its doors on 18 October 2025 and has completed its first year of operations with a focus on comfortable stays, thoughtful service and memorable dining experiences.

Located on New Link Road in Andheri West, the hotel caters to both business and leisure travellers. Its approach follows Fairfield by Marriott's brand philosophy, The Beauty of Simplicity, combining contemporary accommodation with convenient amenities and dining spaces.

The property features 106 guest rooms and suites, offering a comfortable setting for guests visiting Mumbai for business, leisure and special occasions. Its dining portfolio includes Pana, the all-day dining restaurant, along with a Flavourscape, patisserie and bakery. The upcoming SORAÉ rooftop bar is expected to further add to the hotel's dining and social experiences.

The hotel also offers event spaces, including Vira and Reva banquets, which cater to corporate gatherings, social celebrations and special occasions.

The first anniversary also recognises the contributions of the hotel's associates, guests and partners, whose continued support has played an important role in shaping its journey over the past year.

Commenting on the milestone, Imran Khan, Hotel Manager, Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai Andheri West, said, "Celebrating our first anniversary is a proud and meaningful milestone for all of us. The past year has been an important journey of building relationships, creating memorable guest experiences and establishing our presence in Mumbai's dynamic hospitality landscape. This achievement reflects the dedication and passion of our associates, the trust our guests place in us, and the continued support of our Stakeholders. As we look ahead, we remain committed to elevating the guest experience through thoughtful service, genuine hospitality and the simplicity that defines the Fairfield by Marriott brand."

As it completes its first year, Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai Andheri West looks ahead to building on its presence in the city while continuing to focus on guest experiences, warm hospitality and comfortable stays.


Novotel Vijayawada Varun Offers Up to 25% Off on Extended Festive Stays

Novotel Vijayawada Varun Offers Up to 25% Off on Extended Festive Stays

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 6, 2026

Novotel Vijayawada Varun has introduced its 'Stay for More' offer, inviting guests to enjoy an extended festive getaway with savings of up to 25% on stays of three nights or more. The offer is open for bookings from 27 October to 1 December 2026, for stays between 8 December 2026 and 28 March 2027.

Located in the heart of Vijayawada, the hotel offers contemporary rooms with bright and spacious interiors, along with facilities designed for a relaxed stay. Guests can unwind at the rooftop infinity pool, enjoy the jogging track or visit the rooftop wellness zone, which features a gym and spa.

The hotel also offers multi-cuisine dining and a rooftop bar, with poolside, outdoor and indoor seating options, giving guests different ways to enjoy their time during a longer stay.

Commenting on the offer, Manish Pathak, General Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun, said, “A staycation is an opportunity to slow down and make time for what matters. With our Stay for More offer, we invite guests to celebrate the festive season at Novotel Vijayawada Varun and make the most of their time.”

Under the offer, guests booking three nights or more can receive up to 25% off. ALL Accor members are eligible for an exclusive 25% discount, while non-members can enjoy 20% off. With its extended-stay benefits and leisure facilities, Novotel Vijayawada Varun offers guests an opportunity to make their festive break longer and enjoy a relaxed stay in the city.

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