Hilton’s New Yala Resort in Sri Lanka: A Nature-Focused Oasis

By Author

Published on October 18, 2023

Hilton, the renowned global hospitality leader, has recently unveiled its newest gem, the Hilton Yala Resort. Situated on the fringes of Sri Lanka’s famed Yala National Park, this property marks Hilton’s third flagship establishment in the country. Set amidst lush greenery and offering breathtaking vistas of the Indian Ocean, this resort is an ideal escape for travelers yearning for adventure and relaxation.

The resort’s design is a tribute to the wonders of Yala’s natural beauty. It features 42 elegantly designed rooms, suites, and villas adorned with contemporary interiors in soothing neutral tones. Safari chic accents and local artworks provide a subtle touch of the locale’s essence. Expansive windows invite guests to connect with the resort's natural surroundings, which teem with diverse flora and fauna. Ground-floor rooms boast private pools ranging from eight to 16 square meters, while those on the upper level offer private hot tubs, creating a tranquil space for relaxation.

Hilton Yala Resort takes its guests beyond its borders, offering an elevated and eco-conscious safari experience led by locally trained rangers. These wildlife experts tailor personalized, twice-daily game drives within Yala National Park. Each safari is not only an opportunity to witness the local wildlife but also a chance to participate in educational sessions that foster a deeper sense of awareness and appreciation for the environment.

The protection of Yala’s biodiversity and environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of Hilton Yala Resort's mission. Hilton collaborates with local partners to safeguard habitats and biodiversity. An onsite animal research program has been initiated, supported by the Hilton Global Foundation. It equips rangers with cutting-edge wildlife information, technology, and tools such as solar-powered weather sensors and night vision binoculars to monitor wildlife around the resort, aiding in their protection.

Hilton Yala Resort is dedicated to contributing to both conservation and the economic well-being of the local communities. The resort actively promotes responsible tourism, and Hilton is playing a pivotal role in conserving the region ethically. In collaboration with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS), Hilton Yala Resort is partnering on wildlife research and exploring projects to protect wildlife across the Yala area and expand the use of locally grown produce. Moreover, they are excited to develop community education programs.

As part of Hilton’s commitment to destination stewardship and career advancement, they have established a ranger academy program in Sri Lanka. This program aims to increase the pool of qualified rangers and provide meaningful employment and conservation opportunities for the local community. Conducted by a Field Guides Association of Southern Africa-certified trainer, graduates may have the opportunity to work at Hilton Yala Resort.

Hilton Yala Resort offers three exceptional restaurants, each highlighting head chef Jerome Tissera's contemporary Sri Lankan cuisine, predominantly sourced from local ingredients. Guests can savor the flavors of Asia at Dhira, explore Western cuisine at Sandali, or enjoy cocktails and breathtaking views at Vanya. For a truly unique dining experience, venture into the wild for Lanthaaruma, an exclusive dining experience set amidst the lush jungle and the Indian Ocean's lapping waves, featuring a fully customized menu and sommelier-selected wines.

At the heart of the resort lies an outdoor pool that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. The resort also boasts a fully equipped gym and a state-of-the-art spa, providing rejuvenating treatments in a beautifully designed space.

Hilton Yala Resort is part of Hilton Honors, the acclaimed guest loyalty program for Hilton's 22 hotel brands. To celebrate the resort's opening, Hilton Honors members will receive 10,000 bonus points for a minimum three-night stay booked directly with Hilton before December 1, 2023.

Hilton’s Yala Resort is a nature-focused sanctuary that combines adventure and relaxation, offering guests a unique connection with the remarkable Yala National Park and its surroundings while emphasizing environmental conservation and community involvement. Enjoy an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sri Lanka's natural wonders.

Lords Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Gujarat Presence with Four New Signings

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 27, 2024

Lords Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of four new properties in Gujarat, taking its total presence in the state to 28 hotels. This strategic expansion highlights the group's unwavering commitment to offering premium hospitality in one of India's most dynamic regions.

The newly signed properties include:

Lords Inn Sanand: A 61-room hotel scheduled to open by July 2025.
Lords Studio Inn Kodinar: A boutique property with 23 rooms, opening in October 2025.
Lords Inn Una: Featuring 40 rooms, set to welcome guests by December 2025.
Lords Inn Gir: Offering 44 rooms, projected to open in 2026.

These hotels promise thoughtfully designed amenities, including banquet facilities and multi-cuisine restaurants that embrace local culinary traditions. With a focus on providing unforgettable experiences, each property is tailored to meet the needs of both business and leisure travelers.

Pushpendra Bansal, Chief Operating Officer of Lords Hotels & Resorts, shared his excitement, stating, "We are thrilled to announce the signing of four hotels in Gujarat, a state celebrated for its rich culture, vibrant heritage, and thriving ecosystem. These signings reflect the strong momentum our brand has built over the years."

He further added, "We remain committed to upholding the legacy of the Lords brand as we continue our journey toward success."

With these additions, Lords Hotels & Resorts now manages a portfolio of 70 hotels and over 3,000 keys across three countries. As the brand grows, its core philosophy of delivering "True Value Hospitality" remains steadfast, ensuring exceptional guest experiences across all its properties.

OYO Faces Rising Turmoil: Layoffs, Legal Troubles, and Hotelier Backlash

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 26, 2024

The troubles for OYO, one of India’s most prominent unicorn startups, continue to escalate. According to an Economic Times report, the company plans to lay off 2,000 employees by the end of January as part of its cost-cutting measures, which also include automation of processes. While OYO touts itself as one of the “best places to work,” the planned layoffs come amidst mounting internal and external challenges.

An OYO spokesperson stated, “OYO continuously tracks performances of individuals, and depending on the results and the individual’s interests, we may replace some candidates after giving them the opportunity to go through a performance improvement programme.” However, layoffs are just one part of the growing crisis the company faces.

Backlash from Hotel Owners

OYO’s problems extend beyond its workforce. The startup is under fire from hotel owners across various markets for unpaid dues and unfavorable contract terms. In India, the dissatisfaction has even led to legal action. Recently, a Bengaluru hotelier filed a cheating case against OYO founder Ritesh Agarwal and six others, alleging non-payment of INR 7 lakh per month since May 2019.

Globally, similar issues persist. In the United States, hotel owners have raised concerns about OYO’s partner management system, citing its inefficiency and failure to meet payment commitments. In Japan, Yahoo terminated its partnership with OYO due to increasing complaints from hotel owners. Even in China, where OYO claims to be one of the largest hotel chains, property owners report receiving lower payments than initially promised.

Regulatory Scrutiny

Adding to its woes, OYO is also under investigation by the Competition Commission of India (CCI). The probe focuses on a commercial agreement between OYO and MakeMyTrip, examining whether the partnership creates an unfair dominant position in the market.

Global Troubles Continue

The startup’s ambitious expansion into the US market has not been smooth, with several hotel owners expressing dissatisfaction with OYO’s operations. The issues of unpaid dues and operational inefficiencies seem to mirror the problems reported in other markets.

Despite these challenges, OYO continues to assert its commitment to growth and operational excellence. However, the growing dissent from hotel owners, legal battles, and regulatory scrutiny highlight a critical need for the company to address its operational inefficiencies and rebuild trust with its partners.

With these mounting issues, the road ahead for OYO appears increasingly complex. Will the unicorn be able to navigate these turbulent waters, or is its ambitious expansion strategy taking a toll on its foundational stability?

Mahakumbh 2025 Welcomes First Upscale Hotel: Regenta Evolife Dome City

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 26, 2024

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) is all set to elevate the hospitality experience during Mahakumbh 2025 with the launch of Regenta Evolife Dome City, a one-of-a-kind upscale pop-up resort in Prayagraj. Strategically situated near the main bathing point and activity areas of the Mahakumbh Mela, this luxury offering will cater to international and domestic travelers looking for premium accommodations during the world’s largest religious gathering.

A Unique Hospitality Milestone

Scheduled to open on 15th January 2025, Regenta Evolife Dome City will feature a variety of accommodations, including luxurious tents and architecturally stunning domes. These unique domes not only offer a serene retreat but also provide guests with immersive stargazing opportunities. Complementing this are wellness activities such as yoga and meditation, a private beach for intimate ceremonies, and curated culinary experiences.

Exclusive Services for Memorable Stays

Guests at Regenta Evolife Dome City can enjoy a host of exclusive offerings, including complimentary airport transfers, meals tailored to preferences, and boat rides. The resort aims to blend spiritual enrichment with recreational luxury, making it a preferred destination for those attending Mahakumbh 2025.

Reimagining Spiritual Hospitality

Arjun Baljee, President of ROHL, shared his vision, stating, “2024 was the year we began redefining our hospitality brands, and 2025 is when we execute those plans. Mahakumbh 2025 provides the perfect stage to showcase Regenta Evolife Dome City, combining quality accommodations and unparalleled service in a spiritual epicenter.”

Meeting a Growing Demand for Luxury Accommodations

Mahakumbh 2025 is expected to attract an unprecedented 400 to 450 million visitors. Despite its spiritual significance, Prayagraj has long faced a shortage of high-quality accommodations for international tourists. Regenta Evolife Dome City aims to address this gap, offering world-class hospitality during this iconic event.

Collaboration and Innovation

Highlighting the collaborative effort, Mr. Alok Chauhan, the project’s developer, said, “We are thrilled to partner with ROHL to create this one-of-a-kind upscale property. With our excellence in dome architecture and Regenta’s signature hospitality, we aim to make every visitor’s stay unforgettable.”

Discover Prayagraj

Prayagraj, located at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Sarasvati rivers, holds immense spiritual significance. As one of the four cities to host the Kumbh Mela, the city attracts millions of pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and tourists. Its rich heritage, ancient temples, and historical monuments make Prayagraj a must-visit destination during the Mahakumbh.

About Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels

With over 110 hotels across India, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. is one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality chains. The Regenta brand extends its offerings to discerning travelers through categories like Regenta Resort, Regenta Inn, and more, combining convenience, affordability, and luxury.

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