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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on August 28, 2025
ITC Hotels Limited has expanded its boutique brand Storii with the signing of a new property in Kerala. The group announced definitive agreements with Silvercastle Holidays and Resorts (India) Private Limited for the 62-key Storii by ITC Hotels Wayanad Silverwoods, located alongside the scenic Banasura Sagar Dam in Wayanad.
Currently operating under another identity, the property will undergo extensive renovation before reopening under the Storii brand. This development marks the debut of Storii by ITC Hotels in Kerala, further strengthening the chain’s growing presence in the state. ITC Hotels now has a pipeline of three properties in Kerala.
Speaking about the expansion, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, “Kerala’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage makes it a compelling destination for our loyalists. We are thrilled about our partnership with Silvercastle Holidays and Resorts and look forward to adding this experience to our Brand Storii’s portfolio.”
Adding to this, Benny John Kuppail, Managing Director of Silvercastle Holidays and Resorts (India) Private Limited, said, “We are delighted to be the first hotel of the Storii by ITC Hotels brand in Kerala and believe this new identity will give us the opportunity to showcase our rich and diverse history and simultaneously set a new benchmark for a sustainable and eco-friendly hospitality footprint in the state.”
Storii by ITC Hotels is a collection of handpicked boutique properties catering to the evolving needs of global travellers. These premium-segment hotels are designed as intimate experiences at both popular and unexpected destinations.
With a portfolio of more than 140 hotels across 90 destinations and over 13,000 keys, ITC Hotels is among India’s leading luxury chains. Known for its philosophy of “Responsible Luxury,” the group integrates sustainability into its hospitality model. ITC Hotels is the world’s first chain to achieve 23 LEED Platinum certified hotels, along with pioneering LEED Zero Carbon and LEED Zero Water certifications.
The group operates under six distinct brands: ITC Hotel and Mementos in the luxury segment, Welcomhotel in the upper upscale space, Storii in the premium boutique category, Fortune in the mid-market to upscale space, and WelcomHeritage in the heritage leisure segment.
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Published on October 8, 2025
Espire Hospitality Limited has announced the signing of a brand-new ZANA Resort in Dehradun, scheduled to open in April 2026. Strategically located near the Indian Military Academy, the resort will bring the brand’s signature blend of soulful luxury and nature-inspired design to one of North India’s most sought-after leisure destinations.
Spread across 7 acres of lush greenery, the upcoming ZANA Resort Dehradun promises a serene escape with 50 luxurious cottages, including select cottages featuring private plunge pools. Designed to offer a seamless connection with nature, the resort will combine modern comforts with an atmosphere of tranquility and rejuvenation.
Guests can look forward to the brand’s signature Mayfair restaurant with adjoining alfresco seating, a stylish bar, and 20,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor banqueting space, perfect for destination weddings, social events, and corporate gatherings. Recreational offerings will include a spa, fitness centre, swimming pool, kids’ play area, and gaming arcade, making it an ideal getaway for families, couples, and groups alike.
Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Akhil Arora, CEO & MD of Espire Hospitality Limited, said,
“The signing of ZANA Resort in Dehradun is a strategic addition to our growing portfolio and further strengthens our presence in North India’s popular leisure markets. Dehradun has always been an important destination for travellers, and this one-of-a-kind expansive, nature-inspired resort will cater to the increasing demand for high-quality, experience-driven stays in this market. At Espire, our focus remains on developing well-differentiated hotels that combine thoughtful design, modern amenities, and exceptional hospitality.”
With this new signing, Espire Hospitality continues to expand its premium leisure portfolio across North India, moving closer to its vision of having 30 operational hotels by FY26. The upcoming resort reaffirms the brand’s focus on nature-led experiences, immersive hospitality, and creating destinations that inspire.
Published on October 7, 2025
Indian travellers applying for US B1/B2 business and tourist visas continue to face long interview wait times, as per the latest data from the US Department of State updated in September 2025. New Delhi now records the longest delay, with appointment availability stretching to 12 months. In contrast, Chennai has seen a remarkable improvement, with average wait times dropping sharply from 8.5 months in August to just 2.5 months in September.
According to the latest figures, Hyderabad’s average wait time remains steady at three months, while Mumbai and Kolkata show minor fluctuations, now averaging 4.5 and 5.5 months respectively. The sudden rise in New Delhi’s wait period, up from 3.5 months in August to 12 months in September, has raised concerns for applicants planning urgent travel.
City
Avg Wait (Aug 2025)
Avg Wait (Sep 2025)
Next Available (Aug 2025)
Next Available (Sep 2025)
Chennai
8.5 months
2.5 months
5 months
3 months
Hyderabad
3.5 months
Kolkata
6 months
5.5 months
Mumbai
4.5 months
New Delhi
12 months
Average wait time refers to the typical delay from visa fee payment to interview, based on historical data. The “next available appointment” indicates the earliest date open for scheduling and can shift frequently as new slots are added. Applicants are encouraged to monitor embassy systems regularly to reschedule earlier appointments when possible.
Previously, Indian travellers could apply for non-immigrant visas in third countries such as the UAE, Qatar, or Singapore, where appointment wait times were often shorter. However, the US has now ended this practice, requiring applicants to apply in their home country or place of residence. This policy aims to prevent “visa shopping” but may lead to longer delays for many Indian applicants.
Existing third-country appointments are expected to be honoured, but new ones must be made in the applicant’s home country. The Department of State continues to update visa wait time data monthly and advises applicants to refer to embassy websites for the latest details on interview scheduling, rescheduling, and waiver options.
Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the signing of its latest property, Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels, Haridwar. The new property will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels Limited. This addition further strengthens the company’s growing presence in Uttarakhand, catering to both religious and leisure travellers seeking a refreshing, value-driven stay experience.
Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels, Haridwar will feature 52 well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, conference hall, and recreational facilities including a fitness centre. The property enjoys a convenient location, approximately 32 km from Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, and 9 km from Haridwar Railway Station, with excellent connectivity via public and private transport.
Speaking on the occasion, Vilas Pawar, CEO, Managed & Franchise Business, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, “With this signing, we will expand our leisure portfolio in Uttarakhand, a state where we have eight operational and nine upcoming properties in addition to this one. While expanding its footprint across the country in cities of all tiers, this signing by Lemon Tree Hotels perfectly aligns with the company’s vision of offering refreshing and comfortable stays across religious and spiritual destinations.”
Currently, Lemon Tree Hotels Limited (LTHL) operates 120+ hotels across 75+ cities in India and abroad, with a pipeline of 110+ upcoming properties. From major metro hubs like Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad to tier II and III cities such as Jaipur, Udaipur, Kochi, and Indore, as well as international locations in Dubai, Bhutan, and Nepal, the brand continues to deliver exceptional comfort, consistent quality, and a warm, refreshing experience.
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