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By Nishang Narayan
Published on June 19, 2024
The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has strengthened its presence in Bhutan by signing an 83-key hotel in Thimphu. This hotel will be rebranded as an IHCL SeleQtions property.
“We are delighted to expand our presence in Bhutan. The country’s growing popularity as a short-haul international getaway, particularly among Indian travelers, presents a significant opportunity for us. Thimphu’s strategic location makes it a natural inclusion in the popular Paro – Thimphu – Phobjikha itinerary, allowing us to create a seamless circuit for those seeking to explore this Himalayan kingdom,” said Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development, IHCL.
The hotel conversion will enhance the interiors and offer a diverse range of dining options, including an all-day dining restaurant and bar, as well as a rooftop restaurant with stunning views. The hotel will also feature wellness areas such as a gym, an indoor heated swimming pool, and a spa.
“We are excited to join hands with IHCL, with its legacy of pioneering destinations in the Indian Subcontinent. This partnership will be invaluable in establishing the hotel as the leading choice for travelers visiting Thimphu,” said Ugen Penjor, CEO of Yarkay Group.
Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage and is becoming a growing economic center. This expansion strengthens IHCL’s presence in Bhutan, with three hotels under development.
About Yarkay Group:
Yarkay Group, a family-owned business founded in 1970, operates across construction, commercial real estate, hospitality, tours & travels, and film production. The group has undertaken several construction projects over the last five decades. Mr. Ugen Penjor serves as the CEO of Yarkay Group Pvt. Ltd., and Ms. Phub Zam, one of the promoters, was the first woman President of the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce & Industry from 2016 to 2021.
About The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL):
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. These include Taj, the iconic brand for discerning travelers, ranked as the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand 2024 and India’s Strongest Brand 2023 by Brand Finance; SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels; Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels; and Ginger, which is revolutionizing the lean luxe segment.
Founded by Jamsetji Tata, the company opened its first hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL has a portfolio of 322 hotels, including 99 under development, across four continents, 13 countries, and over 130 locations. IHCL is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization and is listed on the BSE and NSE.
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Published on July 4, 2025
SAii Hotels & Resorts, the distinctive lifestyle brand under Thailand’s S Hotels & Resorts (SHR), has officially relaunched with a renewed brand identity anchored on the belief that “Peace of Mind is the Ultimate Luxury.” This strategic evolution marks a key chapter in SHR’s long-term growth vision, positioning SAii to thrive in a competitive global market.
The refreshed identity brings together carefully crafted elements to elevate the guest experience and set SAii apart. A core part of this transformation is the introduction of SAii Brand Signatures, which include:
SAii Local Gurus: Friendly local experts who curate authentic experiences, helping guests uncover hidden gems.
SAii Wellness Gurus: Specialists offering tailored wellness journeys, from yoga to curated spa therapies.
Sensory Lobbies: Welcoming spaces infused with calming scents, natural textures, and abundant light.
Easy Check-in: Guests can opt for digital check-in via the SAii App or a warm, personal greeting by SAii Gurus.
Digital Detox: Encouraging guests to unplug, with devices safely stored and returned fully charged.
Fresh, Healthy, Happy: A culinary philosophy that celebrates fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients, showcased at signature dining venues like Terra & Mar, Miss Olive Oyl, Mr. Tomyam, bean/Co, and SAii Beach Club.
Driving Growth Through Two-Pronged Strategy
SHR is executing a dual strategy to fuel SAii’s expansion. First, through asset enhancement, by renovating properties and elevating the guest journey with these new brand signatures and visuals. Second, through an asset-light approach, focusing on Hotel Management Agreements (HMAs) and targeted mergers & acquisitions across Thailand and the Asia Pacific, enabling rapid yet quality-driven growth.
This strategic shift is already yielding strong results. After its major renovation last December, SAii Laguna Phuket, the brand’s flagship, reported a record-high average daily rate (ADR), up 31% year-on-year, and a 23% rise in RevPAR in Q1 2025—highlighting the success of SHR’s asset enhancement initiatives.
Michael Marshall, CEO of S Hotels & Resorts, shared, “This relaunch reflects evolving traveller desires for more meaningful, mindful stays. At the heart of our brand evolution is a promise of true peace of mind—creating spaces where guests feel connected, cared for, and at ease. Our brand refinement and expansion strategy place us in a strong position for sustainable growth.”
Looking ahead, the upcoming renovation of SAii Phi Phi Island Village in 2026 will complete the revamp of the entire SAii portfolio, further reinforcing the brand’s commitment to delivering experience-led stays.
Sustainability at the Core
SAii Hotels & Resorts also continues to lead in responsible tourism. The brand has earned Green Globe certification three years in a row, while its properties in Phuket and the Maldives became the first in their countries to achieve the Sustainable Event Standards GOLD certification by the Event Industry Council (EIC). Across its portfolio, initiatives range from phasing out single-use plastics and reducing carbon emissions, to supporting marine conservation and local artisans—underlining a deep commitment to community and environmental stewardship.
About SAii Hotels & Resorts
SAii Hotels & Resorts, an upper-upscale lifestyle brand under Thailand’s S Hotels & Resorts PCL, reimagines affordable luxury by offering heartfelt service, nature-inspired surroundings, and customised guest experiences in idyllic Thai and Maldivian locales. A proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme, SAii stands for peace-of-mind luxury with a sustainable heart.
Learn more at saiihotels.com or follow @saiihotelsresorts on Instagram and Facebook.
Published on July 3, 2025
Rubystone Hospitality has announced the opening of its latest property in Vrindavan, marking the group’s 12th hotel and furthering its presence in India’s spiritual and cultural tourism circuit. Located conveniently close to the famed Prem Mandir, Banke Bihari Temple, ISKCON Temple, Nidhivan, and the tranquil Yamuna Ghats, the hotel is perfectly positioned for devotees and tourists alike.
The new property features comfortable, well-furnished, and affordable rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant serving a wide variety of dishes, and a charming terrace café offering stunning views of Vrindavan. Designed with a focus on nature and calm surroundings, the hotel provides a serene retreat, whether for spiritual seekers or travellers simply looking to unwind.
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Sandeep Singh, founder of Rubystone Hospitality, shared, “Vrindavan occupies a unique position in the hearts of millions. With this hotel, we aim to offer tourists a stay that is warm, clean, and full of peace. We have tried to bring together modern hospitality with the sanctity of this lovely city.”
He further noted that the hotel is thoughtfully designed to cater to today’s travellers — individual pilgrims, families on vacation, and couples seeking a peaceful getaway. “The goal is to provide simple comforts with caring service, so guests can be free to pursue their mission — to pray, rest, or explore,” he added.
This new opening is part of Rubystone’s broader strategy to expand into spiritual and cultural destinations across India. With several development projects already underway, the group plans to announce additional openings in other holy cities over the coming months.
The hotel is now open to guests, with bookings available across all major travel platforms.
Published on July 2, 2025
The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has announced the signing of a new Ginger hotel in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, reinforcing its strategy to expand in India’s growing commercial centres. This greenfield project will be developed in collaboration with JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited, marking a continued partnership between the two groups.
Strategically located on Kalpi Road, near the Kamala Cricket Club, the 100-key Ginger Kanpur promises excellent connectivity to key business and leisure districts, making it well-suited for both corporate travellers and tourists visiting the city.
"Kanpur is a prominent manufacturing and commercial hub in Uttar Pradesh, making it an ideal location for Ginger’s offering. This signing is part of our strategy to build Ginger’s presence in such emerging cities," said Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President, New Businesses and Hotel Openings, IHCL. "We are delighted to extend our partnership with JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited."
The hotel will feature Ginger’s signature Qmin, a vibrant bar, meeting facilities, and a fitness centre — offering a seamless blend of work and leisure for its guests.
Maneesh Mansingka, CEO of JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited, added, "We are happy to continue our partnership with IHCL. Our projects with the company will contribute to Kanpur’s hospitality landscape."
With this signing, IHCL now has 34 hotels across Uttar Pradesh, including 21 under various stages of development, underscoring its robust commitment to the state’s hospitality growth.
JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited is part of the historic JK Singhania family business, whose legacy spans over 140 years with interests in sectors like cement, paper, tyres, defence, chemicals, healthcare, education, retail, and IT. The group’s real estate arm, originally incorporated as JK Cotton Ltd. in 1924, continues to play a key role in shaping urban infrastructure.
The new Ginger hotel is set to contribute significantly to Kanpur’s evolving hospitality landscape, catering to the dynamic needs of the city’s growing commercial and leisure segments.
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