Marriott Expands Luxury Portfolio with Iconic Property Conversions

Marriott Expands Luxury Portfolio with Iconic Property Conversions

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 6, 2024

Marriott International is set to expand its luxury offerings by converting three renowned U.S. properties into brands within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. This summer, The Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Beach, Turtle Bay Resort in O’ahu, and a luxury hotel in Midtown Manhattan will join Marriott’s distinguished collection of luxury hotels.

Leeny Oberg, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Development at Marriott International, highlighted the significance of these additions. “In the last few weeks, we finalized deals for conversions of three incredible properties, adding over 1,000 rooms to our system and continuing to underscore our commitment to luxury,” she said. These new properties further solidify Marriott’s leadership in the luxury hotel segment, which already boasts over 510 open hotels globally and another 234 in the pipeline.

New York City’s New Gem

The luxury hotel in Midtown Manhattan is slated to join the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio on June 5. Positioned in the heart of the city, this property will offer guests proximity to iconic attractions such as Central Park, Times Square, The Museum of Modern Art, and Rockefeller Center. This move marks The Luxury Collection’s return to New York City, promising unparalleled urban luxury.

The Resort at Pelican Hill

Set to join Marriott’s luxury portfolio on July 1, The Resort at Pelican Hill is a five-star property located on the scenic coast of Newport Beach, California. The 504-acre resort features the renowned Pelican Hill Golf Club, which includes two 18-hole courses with breathtaking ocean views. The Irvine Company will retain ownership, while Marriott will manage the property, with plans to eventually convert it to a St. Regis hotel.

Turtle Bay Resort Joins The Ritz-Carlton

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Later this summer, Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of O’ahu, Hawai’i, will become part of The Ritz-Carlton brand. Known for its natural beauty, the resort includes oceanfront bungalows, luxurious suites, and ocean view rooms. Guests can enjoy seven secluded beaches, 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, and a variety of on-site amenities. The transition includes Host Hotels & Resorts’ acquisition of the property, with Marriott taking over management.

Dana Jacobsohn, Chief Development Officer for U.S. Luxury Brands & Global Mixed-Use at Marriott, emphasized the company's focus on growing its luxury segment. “Strengthening and growing our luxury pipeline is a top priority for the company, and I’m proud that Marriott remains the clear industry leader in the segment. We look forward to working closely with our owners and franchisees to provide best-in-class service and experiences to guests from around the world seeking out these incredible destinations,” she said. Marriott’s luxury portfolio includes seven dynamic brands: The Ritz-Carlton, Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, EDITION, The Luxury Collection, JW Marriott, and W Hotels.

For travelers seeking the pinnacle of luxury, these new additions promise exceptional stays in some of the most desirable locations in the United States.


Courtyard Pune Chakan Enhances Stay with Focus on Comfort and Well-being

Courtyard Pune Chakan Enhances Stay with Focus on Comfort and Well-being

By Hariharan U

Published on March 28, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan has introduced a property-wide upgrade aimed at improving guest comfort and overall well-being, with a clear focus on enhancing the stay experience.

As part of this initiative, the hotel has installed new mattresses across all rooms, addressing the growing importance of quality sleep for travellers. The move reflects a shift in hospitality priorities, where rest and relaxation are becoming key parts of the guest journey.

The upgrade has been designed keeping both business and leisure travellers in mind, offering a space that supports better sleep, reduces travel fatigue, and creates a more relaxed environment throughout the stay.

Commenting on the development, Amol More said, “At Courtyard By Marriott Pune Chakan, we believe that true hospitality goes beyond service, it’s about how our guests feel during and after their stay. This upgrade is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring every guest experiences superior comfort, relaxation, and peace of mind.”

The refreshed room experience is part of the hotel’s continued effort to align its offerings with wellness-focused travel trends, where guests increasingly look for stays that help them unwind and recharge.

With this update, the property continues to strengthen its approach to guest-centric hospitality, focusing on simple yet impactful changes that make a noticeable difference to the overall stay.


A. R. Rahman Headlines RECHARGE 2026 at Rajalakshmi Engineering College

A. R. Rahman Headlines RECHARGE 2026 at Rajalakshmi Engineering College

By Hariharan U

Published on March 27, 2026

RECHARGE 2026 at Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai, turned into a landmark cultural moment with a massive turnout of over 18,000 students on its opening day. The event brought together music, art, and student energy on an unprecedented scale, setting a new benchmark for college culturals in India.

In a historic first, globally celebrated music composer A. R. Rahman performed live on a college campus, making the evening truly unforgettable. His performance became the highlight of the fest, elevating it into a large-scale cultural spectacle.

The night also featured performances by well-known artists including Shweta Mohan, Rakshita Suresh, Amrutha Suresh, Nakul Abhyankar, Blaaze, Haricharan, Aditya R K, Nitesh Aher, and A. R. Ameen, creating a high-energy lineup that kept the audience engaged throughout.

RECHARGE 2026 was designed as an immersive platform celebrating creativity and talent, bringing together established artists and emerging voices in a single space.

Speaking about the event, Abhay Meganathan, Vice Chairman of Rajalakshmi Engineering College, said, "We are immensely proud to have hosted a historic moment not just for our institution, but for college culturals across India. Bringing A. R. Rahman to perform at our campus reflects our commitment to creating unparalleled opportunities and experiences for our students. RECHARGE 2026 embodies the spirit of innovation, passion, and excellence that defines our institution."

Following the strong response to Day 1, the fest continues with an equally exciting lineup featuring Prabhu Deva, along with performances by Saanvee Meghana, Nikki Galrani, Sayyeshaa, Shriya Saran, Anukeerthi Vyas, Samyuktha Shan, and Yashika Anand. A special highlight includes a dance performance featuring faculty members alongside the college dance team “Rugged,” mentored by Prabhu Deva.

Tejshree Abhay Meganathan, Executive Director of the college, added, "RECHARGE 2026 is not just a cultural event, but a celebration of the vibrant spirit and talent of our students. At our institution, we believe such initiatives play a vital role in nurturing creativity, confidence, and holistic development."

With RECHARGE 2026, Rajalakshmi Engineering College has redefined the scale of campus events, creating a new benchmark for experiential college festivals in India


CGH Earth Saha Opens Isai Karai Bungalow in Mahabalipuram

CGH Earth Saha Opens Isai Karai Bungalow in Mahabalipuram

By Hariharan U

Published on March 27, 2026

CGH Earth Saha has expanded its presence in Tamil Nadu with the launch of Isai Karai, a boutique coastal bungalow in Mahabalipuram. Designed as a quiet and intimate retreat, the property blends the charm of a traditional bungalow with modern comforts, set against a culturally rich seaside backdrop.

Located just a short walk from the shore along the Bay of Bengal, Isai Karai, meaning ‘musical shore’, offers a peaceful stay surrounded by greenery and the calming sound of the sea. The property also enjoys close proximity to iconic landmarks like the Shore Temple and the rock relief of Arjuna's Penance, allowing guests to explore the region’s heritage with ease.

The bungalow features five rooms, spread across a three-bedroom main residence and a separate two-bedroom unit. While rooms can be booked individually, the layout also works well for families and small groups looking for a shared yet private stay.

Each room is inspired by the natural surroundings, with names and themes drawn from plants and trees on the property. Interiors are designed to bring the outdoors in, with open-style bathrooms, natural light, and green views. Pathways run through lawns and shaded courtyards, with tropical fruit trees like papaya, mango, and star fruit adding to the relaxed setting.

The design also reflects Mahabalipuram’s artistic heritage, with locally sourced stone elements, sculptures, and curated artworks adding character to the space.

Dining at the bungalow focuses on flavours of the Tamil coast, along with other cuisines that can be customised for guests. Fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients take centre stage, while evenings are best enjoyed at the poolside barbecue, where the day’s catch is grilled in a laid-back garden setting.

Beyond the stay, guests can explore nearby attractions such as the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse and the India Seashell Museum, along with local sculpture schools that continue the region’s stone-carving traditions. The beaches, known for their surf-friendly waves, also attract water sports enthusiasts.

With easy access from Chennai and Puducherry, Isai Karai Bungalow is well-suited for weekend getaways, longer coastal stays, and intimate family holidays.

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