In a significant move for its Asia growth strategy, Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) has announced the signing of Tokyu Hotels & Resorts (THR), marking its formal entry into Japan’s fast-growing tourism market.

The agreement will see more than 40 properties operated by THR integrated into GHA DISCOVERY, GHA’s multi-brand loyalty platform that connects over 34 million members worldwide across 50 independent hotel brands.

Tokyu Hotels’ portfolio spans key destinations including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Okinawa, offering a spectrum of experiences from beach resorts to premium business hotels. The group’s brands include The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, Tokyu Hotel, Tokyu Resort Hotel, Excel Hotel Tokyu and Tokyu Rei Hotel, alongside its DISTINCTIVE SELECTION collection featuring lifestyle-forward concepts such as Stream Hotel and Storyline.

Japan continues to record strong tourism numbers, welcoming 42.7 million international visitors in 2025, with Tokyo consistently ranking among the world’s most visited cities. The country’s blend of heritage, innovation and refined hospitality has positioned it as a cornerstone of global travel demand.

“With Japan seeing a sustained boom in tourism, our agreement with TOKYU HOTELS is both timely and strategic,” said Chris Hartley, CEO of GHA. “We look forward to welcoming such an authentic and well-established Japanese brand into the GHA family – it will mark a key milestone in expanding our presence in one of the most dynamic travel markets in the world.”

Founded in 1960, Tokyu Hotels & Resorts is widely associated with Japanese elegance and service precision. The group was also among the founders and previous owners of the Pan Pacific brand in 1989 and continues to maintain marketing ties for select properties.

“This partnership is a natural step forward in our international strategy,” said Takashi Takei, President and Representative Director of THR. “As a hotel chain rooted in Shibuya — one of Tokyo’s most dynamic destinations — we are pleased to join forces with GHA to offer our guests greater benefits through GHA DISCOVERY while introducing our unique Japanese hospitality to a broader global audience.”

With this alliance, GHA strengthens its footprint in Asia while Tokyu Hotels gains access to a powerful global loyalty ecosystem, setting the stage for deeper cross-border travel engagement in the years ahead

This Women’s Day, Loya in Mumbai’s iconic Taj Mahal Palace is inviting women to come together and celebrate their own spirit with PAANCH, its signature cocktail journey inspired by the five elements. Rooted in the brand’s guiding philosophies of Harmony, Experimentation, Authenticity, Reverence and Spirit, the experience is designed as a tribute to strength, balance, and individuality.

The PAANCH cocktail collection draws inspiration from heirloom botanicals from the North, including saffron, rose, and warming mountain spices. Each drink is crafted to reflect character and depth while staying true to traditional flavours in a refreshed, contemporary format.

Among the highlights are the radiant Sparkling Saffron and the floral Gulab, both offering elegant and layered notes. For those who prefer stronger flavours, the Masala Whisky delivers bold warmth, while the Himalayan Mule brings a refreshing twist. Every cocktail in the collection carries a distinct personality, yet they come together in perfect balance.

Even guests who prefer zero-proof options can be part of the experience. The Saffron Delight and Tamarind Fennel Soda are thoughtfully created to mirror the same craft and flavour depth, ensuring that everyone can raise a glass.

This Women’s Day, Loya celebrates the resilience, grace and stories of women. Through PAANCH, the brand offers more than just cocktails, it presents a meaningful toast to women who are bold, layered, and beautifully complex.

Holi is a festival that brings people together through colours, laughter, and shared moments. This year, The Leela Gandhinagar chose to celebrate the occasion in a way that balanced festivity with responsibility. The hotel hosted a dry Holi celebration, making a conscious effort to avoid water wastage while still keeping the spirit of the festival alive.

Guests celebrated with plant-based colours by PHOOL, adding a natural and thoughtful element to the festivities. The initiative reflected the hotel’s focus on mindful celebrations, proving that vibrant experiences can be created without harming the environment.

Live music set the tone for the day, filling the space with energy while maintaining a relaxed and refined atmosphere. Families and friends gathered in an elegant setting that felt both festive and comfortable, making it easy to enjoy the occasion at their own pace.

A specially curated Holi brunch added flavour to the celebration. Prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients, the menu featured festive dishes presented with care and creativity. The dining experience perfectly matched the theme of conscious luxury that defined the event.

“In reimagining Holi through sustainability and intention, we demonstrated that modern luxury is defined by awareness and thoughtful design,” said Vikas Sood, General Manager of The Leela Gandhinagar.

The Holi 2026 celebration at the Gandhinagar property went beyond a traditional gathering. By weaving sustainability into every detail, from the colours to the cuisine, The Leela Gandhinagar showed that true luxury lies in celebrating responsibly while keeping the joy of the festival intact.