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.


Kamat Hotels Strengthens Goa Presence with Launch of IRA Porvorim

Kamat Hotels Strengthens Goa Presence with Launch of IRA Porvorim

By Hariharan U

Published on August 31, 2025

 Kamat Hotels India Ltd (KHIL) has announced the launch of its latest property, IRA Porvorim, Goa, further strengthening the IRA by Orchid Hotels portfolio. Scheduled to open in September 2025, the new hotel adds to the brand’s fast-paced expansion across India.

Following the successful debut of Orchid Passaros in Benaulim earlier this year, IRA Porvorim will offer 43 well-designed guest rooms, catering to both business travellers and leisure seekers. The hotel will also feature a banquet hall for events, a swimming pool, an in-house restaurant, and a fully equipped health club creating a complete hospitality experience in the heart of Porvorim.

KHIL has been steadily building its IRA brand presence in key tier-2 and tier-3 markets, including Mumbai, Bhubaneswar, Ayodhya, Noida, Nashik, and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. The brand philosophy revolves around delivering value, comfort, and prime locations for mid-market travellers.

Reflecting its commitment beyond hospitality, IRA by Orchid has pledged to donate one percent of its sales towards community initiatives, with a focus on supporting the education of the girl child.

Sharing his thoughts, Vishal Vithal Kamat, Executive Director of KHIL, said, “Goa continues to attract both domestic and international travellers, and with IRA Porvorim, we aim to redefine hospitality in the city. From curated experiences to modern comforts, this property will serve as a preferred choice for families, corporates, and event planners alike.”

Adding to this, Vithal Venkatesh Kamat, Chairman of KHIL, commented, “Each new IRA hotel defines our growth blueprint. Porvorim reflects the essence of our brand: sustainable, stylish, and guest-centric.”

With its strategic location and curated offerings, IRA Porvorim is set to become a go-to destination for vibrant celebrations, corporate gatherings, and relaxed getaways, further boosting KHIL’s footprint in Goa’s thriving hospitality market.


ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Expands in Gurugram with Two New ‘The Hoften’ Properties

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Expands in Gurugram with Two New ‘The Hoften’ Properties

By Hariharan U

Published on August 30, 2025

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts has announced a major boost to its Gurugram portfolio with the addition of two hotels Elite Millennium (South City 1) and Elite 32 Mile Stone. Both properties will now operate under “The Hoften” brand, taking ALIVAA’s total footprint in the city to four operating hotels.

Known for its smart service and youthful vibe, The Hoften brand caters to modern travellers who prefer contemporary amenities and a seamless experience. With these new signings, ALIVAA continues its mission to strengthen its presence in India’s fast-growing hospitality market.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Elite Millennium and Elite 32 Mile Stone into The Hoften family and the wider ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts collection”, said Akash Bhatia, CEO – ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts (Managed & Franchise Business). “Gurugram is a truly dynamic destination, experiencing remarkable growth and attracting a diverse range of travellers. This strategic partnership significantly enhances our offerings, allowing us to provide our guests with an even broader range of exceptional experiences”.

Echoing this, Vikramjit Singh, Founder of ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, highlighted Gurugram’s importance in the company’s expansion journey. “As we strategically move towards becoming a leading national player in India’s hospitality sector, Gurugram holds a critical position in our roadmap. The city’s corporate sector, vibrant youth culture, and rising tourism make it an indispensable market for our growth, particularly for brands like The Hoften”.

For Harshal Sharma, owner of Elite Hotels, this partnership opens exciting possibilities. “Joining forces with ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts and bringing our hotels under The Hoften brand is a momentous occasion for us. Their deep expertise, innovative approach, and unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction perfectly complement our vision for providing outstanding stays in Gurugram,” he said.

With these two additions, ALIVAA now operates one ALIVAA Hotel and two Hoften hotels in Gurugram, further cementing its position in the city’s hospitality landscape.

About ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts
ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts is a growing hospitality group known for curating exceptional guest experiences. Its collection includes properties under the ALIVAA and The Hoften brands, focusing on quality, innovation, and guest delight. The group aims to create memorable stays across both established and emerging destinations in India


Summit Hotels & Resorts Launches Summit Enigma Resort & Spa in Lamahata

Summit Hotels & Resorts Launches Summit Enigma Resort & Spa in Lamahata

By Hariharan U

Published on August 30, 2025

Summit Hotels & Resorts, one of Eastern India’s leading hospitality groups, has unveiled its newest gem, Summit Enigma Resort & Spa in Lamahata. Positioned as West Bengal’s latest luxury mountain retreat, the property is just 22 kilometers from Darjeeling and offers the rare balance of easy accessibility with unmatched tranquility.

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What makes the resort stand out is its uninterrupted views of the entire Kanchenjunga range. Guests can now enjoy what is usually reserved for early-morning treks to Tiger Hill,  all from the comfort of their private balcony. The boutique property features 16 elegant rooms, including cozy Premium Rooms and spacious Balcony Rooms, each designed to showcase the grandeur of the Himalayas.

Wellness sits at the heart of Summit Enigma’s philosophy. The signature Meta Spa blends local inspirations into its therapies, alongside facilities like steam, sauna, and a Kanchenjunga-facing Jacuzzi that offers an indulgent yet immersive mountain experience. Dining is equally thoughtful at CloudSong Restaurant, where menus focus on farm-to-table freshness, local produce, and specialties such as the popular Desi Kukkad Curry.

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Beyond luxury, the resort emphasizes authentic cultural and ecological connections. Guests can walk to nearby farms, experience sustainable mountain agriculture, and engage with local communities where traditions still thrive in harmony with nature. Wildlife too adds its charm, with deer sightings on the property reminding guests of the region’s natural richness.

Lamahata’s location further enhances the appeal. While Darjeeling offers its bustling hill-station vibe, Lamahata provides a peaceful alternative, yet remains close to monasteries, tea gardens, the Lamahata Eco Park, and heritage attractions. This balance allows travelers to enjoy serenity without missing out on iconic experiences.

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“Enigma is more than just a property launch, it is Summit’s boldest interpretation of mountain hospitality to date. We have created a retreat where every moment, every view, and every detail reflects the mystery and beauty of the Himalayas”. said Sumit Mitruka, CEO and Founder of Summit Hotels & Resorts.

With this opening, Summit Hotels & Resorts strengthens its position in India’s premium hospitality market. Guided by Mitruka’s vision, the group now operates over 30 hotels and resorts across 17 destinations, employing more than 1,000 people, most from local communities. Looking ahead, Summit plans to expand to 50 properties by 2030 while continuing to blend luxury, sustainability, and authentic regional experiences.

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