IHCL's Grand Entrance into Lakshadweep: Two New Taj Resorts Set to Dazzle

By Author

Published on January 10, 2024

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India's most extensive hospitality company, has announced a significant expansion with the signing of two new Taj-branded resorts in the pristine Lakshadweep Islands. The projects, located on the islands of Suheli and Kadmat, represent IHCL's commitment to pioneering luxury travel experiences in unexplored destinations. Set to open in 2026, these Greenfield projects will be developed by IHCL, marking a new chapter in the region's tourism landscape.

Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of IHCL, expressed his enthusiasm for the venture, "This signing aligns with IHCL's legacy of pioneering new destinations. Our focus on sustainability will ensure we create a minimal footprint while preserving Lakshadweep's delicate ecosystem. We're excited to introduce these world-class Taj resorts, which we believe will be a major draw for both international and national travellers."

The Taj resort on Suheli Island will feature 110 rooms, including 60 beach villas and 50 water villas, all set against the backdrop of a vibrant coral reef rim that encircles a stunning lagoon rich in marine life. Kadmat Island, also known as Cardamom Island, will host the second Taj property, boasting 110 rooms comprising 75 beach villas and 35 water villas. This coral island, surrounded by a large lagoon, is a marine protected area and is famous for its seagrass beds, home to nesting marine turtles.

Lakshadweep, India's smallest Union Territory, is an archipelago of 36 islands in the Arabian Sea. Known for its breathtaking beauty, the islands are a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as scuba diving, windsurfing, snorkelling, surfing, water skiing, and yachting.

About IHCL: IHCL, under the umbrella of the Tata Group, operates iconic brands like Taj, known for its luxurious and discerning offerings; SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels; Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels; and Ginger, a revolutionary player in the lean luxe segment. The company's first hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace in Bombay, opened in 1903. Today, IHCL has a global portfolio of 252 hotels, including 67 under development, across four continents, 11 countries, and over 100 locations.

Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery Opens Its Doors, Where Tradition Meets Modernity

By Author

Published on January 17, 2025

Four Points by Sheraton, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, has officially opened Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery. This remarkable addition to Marriott’s portfolio is strategically located in one of Chennai’s most vibrant neighborhoods, catering to business and leisure travelers alike.

Conveniently situated just 10 kilometers from Chennai International Airport and 8 kilometers from the city center, Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery sits at the crossroads of Velachery’s bustling district and the OMR Business Corridor. This prime location provides easy access to Chennai’s IT hubs, shopping destinations, and cultural landmarks, making it an ideal choice for both professional and recreational visits.

Celebrating Chennai’s Vibrant Spirit

Known as the UNESCO Creative City of Music, Chennai is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and culinary delights. The hotel pays homage to the city’s essence through its thoughtful interiors, which blend contemporary design with traditional influences. Guests will find themselves immersed in the vibrant spirit of Chennai, whether through local artwork in the rooms or authentic Chettinad cuisine at the hotel’s dining venues.

Exceptional Hospitality and Modern Amenities

The hotel features 108 elegantly designed rooms, equipped with modern amenities such as integrated USB ports, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and the signature Four Points comfort bed. Guests can choose between views of Velachery’s dynamic streets or the serene OMR skyline. The thoughtful design extends to the hotel’s public spaces, including:

Sage & Salt: A lively all-day dining restaurant offering international cuisine and local favorites.
The Liquid Library: A sophisticated bar featuring curated cocktails, fine wines, and the brand’s signature Best Brews™ program showcasing locally crafted beers.
Recreational Facilities: A rooftop pool and 24-hour fitness center designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Event Spaces: With 438 square meters of meeting and banquet facilities, the hotel is perfect for weddings, conferences, and social gatherings.

A Collaboration of Excellence

This launch marks the debut of Krishna Group in the hospitality industry, in collaboration with Marriott International. Mr. Krishna Reddy, Managing Director of Krishna Group, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Marriott International for our first venture into hospitality. This milestone represents our commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.”

Ranju Alex, Area Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International, added, “The opening of Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery demonstrates Marriott’s steady growth in India. Combining the brand’s signature reliability with Chennai’s cultural charm, this hotel is poised to become a favorite for business and leisure travelers.”

Marriott Bonvoy and Four Points

As part of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery offers guests the benefits of Marriott’s award-winning loyalty program. Members can enjoy exclusive experiences, free stays, and more, adding immense value to their journeys.

A New Address of Comfort and Style

Sujith Chandrasekhar, Hotel Manager, commented, “We are proud to bring the Four Points brand to Chennai’s dynamic Velachery neighborhood. Our goal is to provide an address of preference, where guests can enjoy Chennai’s vibrant culture along with the modern comforts and impeccable service that define our brand.”

For reservations or more information, visit www.fourpointsvelachery.com.

About Four Points by Sheraton

Four Points by Sheraton is a global brand with over 310 hotels in more than 45 countries and territories. Known for timeless classics woven with modern details, Four Points offers genuine service in a casual environment. As part of Marriott Bonvoy, guests can enjoy a range of benefits, including free nights and exclusive experiences.

Clarion Collection to Rebrand as Home Hotel with a Fresh Concept

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 17, 2025

Clarion Collection, part of the Nordic hotel chain and Strawberry brand, will rebrand to its original name, Home Hotel, on February 3, 2025. This marks a nostalgic return to its roots, as Home Hotel was initially founded in Sweden in 1983 by Jan Torgé and later acquired by Petter Stordalen in 1997.

The rebranding initiative introduces the “Home until you’re home” concept, designed to foster a sense of comfort, connection, and community for guests. As part of this transformation, the 54 properties across Sweden, Norway, and Finland will undergo renovations of guest rooms and common areas, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and functionality.

The move is inspired by a Novus survey revealing that 59% of participants value hotels that encourage social interaction, while nearly half expressed a desire to influence the food served. Reflecting these insights, Home Hotel will begin incorporating guest dinner suggestions into its menus by early 2025, further personalizing the dining experience.

Anna Spjuth, Brand Manager at Strawberry, emphasized:

"Home Hotel invites and welcomes guests into a warm and cosy environment where personal service and homeliness are at the forefront. In a time of increasing loneliness and anxiety, we see a growing need for spaces where people feel cared for and at home."

She added, "Our conversations with guests highlight the strong connection between food and a sense of home, which is why we want to include them in our tradition of gathering around the table. Perhaps we’ll see Johan’s favourite Tuesday pasta on the menu soon—and hopefully, this will foster new connections and conversations among our guests."

Home Hotel has always stood out for its unique properties, which include historic buildings or contemporary constructions with distinct names and personalized interiors. The rebranding also aligns with ongoing local initiatives, focusing on social sustainability and community engagement, further strengthening the brand’s connection to its roots.

The six-week transition to the Home Hotel brand is poised to redefine hospitality across the Nordic region, blending tradition, innovation, and guest-centric services.

TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts Expands to Belgaum, Karnataka

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 17, 2025

TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts has unveiled its plans to open a new property, TreeHouse Kambers, in the vibrant city of Belgaum (Belagavi), Karnataka. This marks a significant step in the brand’s expansion within the state, reflecting its commitment to offering “Quality meets Value” experiences to travelers across India.

Strategically located in the heart of Belgaum, TreeHouse Kambers is set to cater to both business and leisure travelers. The hotel will feature thoughtfully designed rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities to ensure a restful and convenient stay.

A highlight of the property is its “Mountain View Café”, a rooftop dining experience with both indoor and outdoor seating, offering breathtaking views of the city and its picturesque surroundings. Guests can also enjoy an interactive kitchen, creating a perfect ambiance for unwinding with friends and family.

The hotel will also boast a spacious banquet hall, ideal for hosting events such as business meetings, conferences, and social gatherings. This makes TreeHouse Kambers a versatile destination for various needs.

Commenting on the launch, Jayant Singh, Managing Partner at TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts, shared,

“We are thrilled to introduce TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts to the beautiful city of Belgaum. Belgaum's rich history and cultural tapestry make it a captivating destination, and we are confident that TreeHouse Kambers will be the perfect stay for travelers seeking a blend of comfort, convenience, and exceptional service.”

S. Kori, Owner of TreeHouse Kambers, Belgaum, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating,

“We are incredibly proud to partner with TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts to bring their unique brand of hospitality to Belgaum.”

Co-owner M. Kori added,

“Belgaum has so much to offer visitors, and we believe that TreeHouse Kambers will be the ideal place for them to experience the city's charm. We are confident that this collaboration will be a great success and look forward to welcoming guests to our new hotel.”

With its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes, Belgaum is an emerging destination, and TreeHouse Kambers promises to enhance the city’s hospitality offerings by delivering “Dil Se” service that goes the extra mile. Guests can look forward to a comfortable, welcoming stay that perfectly blends modern amenities with the charm of Belgaum.

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