Marriott International Expands in Japan Through Strategic Partnership with HMI Hotel Group

Marriott International Expands in Japan Through Strategic Partnership with HMI Hotel Group

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 22, 2024

Marriott International has announced a significant expansion in Japan by entering into a strategic partnership with HMI Hotel Group. This collaboration involves rebranding seven HMI properties across five sought-after Japanese destinations—Hamamatsu, Kyoto, Kobe, Okinawa, and Kitakyushu—under the renowned Marriott Hotels and Courtyard by Marriott brands.

This move is part of Marriott's broader strategy to enhance its footprint in the Asia Pacific region, leveraging the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of these locations to attract a growing number of visitors. The rebranded properties are strategically positioned in areas known for their high tourist demand, promising to offer guests the exceptional service and heritage associated with Marriott's global brand.

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Rajeev Menon, President of Asia Pacific excluding China at Marriott International, emphasized the importance of conversions in driving the company's global growth. "We are excited to work with HMI Hotel Group on this significant venture in Japan," Menon said. "As consumer preferences continue to evolve, these properties will greatly benefit from the strength of affiliation with Marriott’s expansive portfolio."

On the other side of the partnership, HMI Hotel Group is set to leverage Marriott's extensive hospitality expertise to revitalize its offerings and introduce innovative services tailored to modern travelers. Ryuko Hira, President of HMI Hotel Group, highlighted the expected benefits of the collaboration. "By aligning with Marriott International, we aim to redefine excellence in guest service and unlock growth opportunities in key markets," Hira stated.

This agreement not only signifies a robust growth path for Marriott International in Japan but also helps HMI Hotel Group to elevate its properties to meet international standards, thus ensuring both brands benefit from their combined strengths in this dynamic market.


IHCL and United Way Mumbai Join Hands for Community-Led Waste Management

IHCL and United Way Mumbai Join Hands for Community-Led Waste Management

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 11, 2025

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has reinforced its commitment to sustainable practices through a strategic partnership with United Way Mumbai, driving impactful change in waste management as part of its Paathya ESG+ framework.

Under this initiative, IHCL has been actively supporting municipal efforts at Mahim Reti Bunder and Mahim Causeway by deploying Safai Sathis—frontline waste workers—who conduct daily beach clean-ups and waste segregation. From October 2024 to March 2025, the project has successfully collected and processed over 1,12,097 kilograms of waste, all of which was sent to a Material Recovery Centre (MRC) for recycling and co-processing—significantly reducing the burden on local landfills.

Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources at IHCL, highlighted the significance of the project:

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“Guided by our industry leading ESG+ framework of Paathya, we are moving beyond conventional waste management to create lasting, scalable solutions that actively engage communities and drive positive environmental impact.”

George Aikara, CEO of United Way Mumbai, echoed the sentiment:

“Our partnership with IHCL builds on our vision of addressing waste at every stage—generation to disposal—by strengthening systems, raising awareness, and empowering communities.”

Beyond clean-ups, the initiative is also deeply focused on community sensitisation, engaging local residents through awareness drives, shore walks, and educational programs involving students, self-help groups, sanitation workers, and youth leaders.

Aligned with Paathya 2030 goals, this collaboration promotes circular economy solutions and reinforces responsible waste management across IHCL’s operations, reflecting a long-term commitment to sustainability and community-driven environmental change.


Siyam World Maldives Ranks Among Top 10 Hotels in the World by Tripadvisor

Siyam World Maldives Ranks Among Top 10 Hotels in the World by Tripadvisor

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 11, 2025

Siyam World Maldives has officially arrived on the world stage—and with a trophy cabinet to match. The one-of-a-kind island resort has been crowned among the Top 10 Hotels in the World in Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Awards 2025, making it the only resort in the Maldives to make this coveted global list this year.

But that’s just the beginning. Siyam World also clinched several top spots:

  • #10 Best Hotel in the World

  • #4 Top Hotel in Asia

  • #2 Best All-Inclusive Hotel in the World

  • #1 Top All-Inclusive Hotel in the Maldives

  • #1 Top All-Inclusive Hotel in Asia

This recognition places Siyam World in the top 1% of Tripadvisor listings globally, reflecting not just popularity but true guest satisfaction based on real reviews over the past year.

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Sara Siyam, Director of Marketing at Sun Siyam Resorts, shared,

"We’re beyond honored and thrilled to be ranked #10 in Tripadvisor’s Top 25 Hotels in the World! From day one, our team has worked tirelessly to deliver memorable moments, infused with authentic Maldivian hospitality. This is a win for the whole team and every guest who believed in us."

Ausy Waseem, Resort Manager at Siyam World, added,

“We never aimed to be the flashiest or most luxurious resort. Our mission was to be bold, real, and unforgettable. What we’ve created here is different—and seeing the world recognize that is truly special.”
He also acknowledged the pivotal role of Mr. Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, VP of Operations Abdulla Thamheed, and the entire team for their support in making Siyam World a “game changer” in the Maldives.

Opened in late 2021, Siyam World is known for rewriting the rules of luxury island travel. Set across 54 hectares in Noonu Atoll, it’s home to some of the most outrageous, fun-filled, and first-of-their-kind experiences in the region:

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  • The Maldives’ largest floating water park

  • The country’s first horse ranch

  • An electric go-kart track on an island resort

  • Seabreachers, jet cars, and Cudajets

  • Football camps hosted by icons like Michael Owen, Del Piero, and Rio Ferdinand

  • 16 unique room categories, including massive 4-bedroom beach residences and overwater villas with slides

Add to that 18+ dining and bar outlets, 24-hour WOW! All-Inclusive experiences, wellness programs, curated kids’ activities, and full island buyout options—Siyam World is a universe of its own.

As Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best awards are determined by real travelers' reviews, this win cements Siyam World as a true guest favorite—and a rising icon in global tourism.

For offers and bookings, visit: sunsiyam.com/siyam-world/offers or email stay@siyamworld.com.


Pune’s Next Icon: Della Group, Hiranandani, and Krisala Redefine Luxury Living with India’s First Racecourse-Themed Township

Pune’s Next Icon: Della Group, Hiranandani, and Krisala Redefine Luxury Living with India’s First Racecourse-Themed Township

By Author

Published on May 10, 2025

In a landmark collaboration poised to reshape the hospitality and real estate sectors, Della Group has announced a strategic partnership with Hiranandani Developers and Krisala Developers to develop India’s first racecourse-themed luxury township in North Hinjewadi, Pune. Spanning 40 acres of a larger 105-acre master plan, this venture promises to be more than a township—it is set to become a destination.

The Power Trio: Vision Meets Legacy

This unique alliance brings together three giants with complementary strengths:

  • Della Group, helmed by visionary Jimmy Mistry, is renowned for innovation in luxury hospitality and adventure experiences.

  • Hiranandani Developers, a name synonymous with excellence in real estate.

  • Krisala Developers, known for timely delivery and quality housing in Pune.

Together, they are building not just homes but a lifestyle ecosystem—where ultra-luxury, adventure, wellness, and business converge seamlessly.

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The Township: A Universe Within

At the heart of this project lies a full-scale racecourse and international polo club, setting the tone for the entire township. Surrounding this dynamic core are:

  • 128 private villa plots

  • 112 ultra-luxury resort residences

  • A 300-key five-star luxury resort

  • Nine wedding venues and 12 corporate event spaces

  • A world-class adventure park, golf course, and wellness retreat

This multi-use development is the first of its kind in India, blending residential, hospitality, and recreational formats into a unified, themed living experience.

With an estimated investment of ₹500 crore in its initial phase and projected revenues of ₹1,100 crore, the project uses a development management model. Della Group will earn a 15% topline fee, a bold move that aligns brand involvement with performance.

This model is transformational—bringing professional hospitality expertise into township development. It signals a new era where hospitality design principles guide real estate planning.

The township is already in advanced planning stages, with land acquisition complete and architectural designs underway. The first phase launches within three months, with possession of resort and villa plots by early next year, and the remainder—including private residences—by 2026.

Architecturally, the design will blend contemporary, organic, and British colonial aesthetics—creating a timeless, resort-style environment rarely seen in Indian housing developments.

What makes this venture extraordinary isn’t just its scale—it’s the merging of luxury hospitality with daily life. Residents won’t just live in homes—they’ll live within a curated, five-star experience. Every villa, every apartment, and every corner of the township is a touchpoint for hospitality-led living.

What It Means for the Industry

This township is a case study in convergence:

  • Hospitality meets real estate

  • Adventure meets wellness

  • Design meets experience

It underscores a broader shift: today's guests no longer want isolated stays—they want integrated, immersive environments. As hospitality players venture into real estate and vice versa, this township becomes a blueprint for future developments across India and beyond.

This project reimagines the way we live, celebrate, and unwind. As hospitality brands begin to shape the cities of tomorrow, the lines between guest, resident, and experience-blazer will blur. And if this partnership is any indication, the future is thrillingly bold.

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