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.


Wyndham Garden Udaipur Bhuwana Is Open and It's the Hillside Escape Udaipur Needed

Wyndham Garden Udaipur Bhuwana Is Open and It's the Hillside Escape Udaipur Needed

By Hariharan U

Published on March 9, 2026

Udaipur has always had a way of making you slow down. The lakes, the hills, the golden light at dusk, it's the kind of city that asks you to be present. And the newly opened Wyndham Garden Udaipur Bhuwana seems to have taken that quality and built an entire hotel around it.

Perched in the rolling Aravalli hills with sweeping views of the landscape that defines Udaipur, this 70-room hillside retreat is Wyndham's fifth property in the city and it's a genuinely beautiful addition. From the moment you arrive, the architecture feels like it belongs here. Traditional Rajasthani design, natural materials, open layouts, and a seamless flow between indoor spaces and the outdoors, it's the kind of place where waking up to birdsong and watching the sun dip behind the hills becomes part of your daily routine.

The hotel is built with a clear philosophy  slow down, breathe, and actually feel restored by the time you leave. Whether you're a wellness traveller looking for a mindful escape, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family simply in need of a proper break, the property delivers across the board.

Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director, Eurasia at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, captured it well -  "Udaipur is a destination that speaks to the soul, and Wyndham Garden Udaipur Bhuwana is designed to reflect that spirit. As our fifth hotel in the city, this opening represents our vision of hospitality that goes beyond comfort, offering restorative experiences and memorable celebrations that feel deeply connected to place, nature and wellbeing. It also marks the third Wyndham Garden to open in India in just two years, reflecting the strong demand for nature-led, experience-driven stays and the brand's continued growth in the country."

Made for Weddings Too

Udaipur is India's go-to destination for weddings — and this property is very well set up for exactly that. A 557 square metre pillarless banquet hall and a sprawling open lawn, where vows can be exchanged against a backdrop of hills and golden light, make it a natural choice for couples looking for a setting that feels both grand and intimate. It's the kind of venue where the location does half the work for you.

Close to the City, Far From the Rush

Despite feeling wonderfully removed from the everyday, the hotel is conveniently located - just about 30 minutes from Maharana Pratap Airport, which makes getting in and out easy for both leisure guests and wedding parties. From here, Udaipur's royal palaces, historic temples, and lakeside ghats are all within reach, making it easy to explore the city before returning to the quiet of the hills.

Vikram Singh Chauhan, Founder & CEO of NILE Hospitality, shared - "We are proud to unveil Wyndham Garden Udaipur Bhuwana, a resort that combines Rajasthan's rich heritage with immersive guest experiences. In partnership with Wyndham and Zappy Holidays Resorts, we are creating a destination that offers culture, luxury, and unforgettable stays for travellers from around the world."

What to Expect

Guests are welcomed with a traditional Rajasthani greeting, a warm touch that sets the tone immediately. Amenities include an outdoor pool, spa with steam room, gym, 24/7 room service, free WiFi, a business centre, and a courtyard high-tea ritual that feels like a genuine Udaipur moment. There's also a game room, children's pool and play area, concierge services, travel desk, local shuttle, and free parking. Every room is non-smoking with a private balcony because in a place like this, the view from your room is part of the experience.

Durgesh Kumawat, Proprietor of Zappy Holidays Resorts, managed by NILE Hospitality, summed it up beautifully, "Our goal was to create a sanctuary, a place where guests feel grounded, restored, and connected to the timeless beauty of Udaipur. Whether for a peaceful retreat or a once-in-a-lifetime wedding, Wyndham Garden Udaipur Bhuwana offers an experience that stays with you long after you leave."

The property is developed in partnership with Zappy Holidays Resorts and managed by NILE Hospitality,  a collaboration that already spans seven hotels across India. Looking ahead, Wyndham and NILE are also working together to bring Microtel by Wyndham to India, with plans to open 40 hotels nationwide by 2031.

For a city that's always felt like it was made for slowing down, this new hillside retreat feels right at home.


Clarks Exotica Is Offering Special Spa Deals This Women's Day — and They're Worth It

Clarks Exotica Is Offering Special Spa Deals This Women's Day — and They're Worth It

By Hariharan U

Published on March 7, 2026

Sometimes the best way to celebrate Women's Day is also the simplest, just stop, breathe, and give yourself a proper break. And Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa is making that very easy to do this 8th March.

The resort is rolling out special Women's Day spa offers that are genuinely good value, the kind that make it hard to say no, whether you're treating yourself or gifting someone a little moment of calm.

Set in peaceful, serene surroundings, Clarks Exotica is already the kind of place that makes you exhale the moment you arrive. This Women's Day, they're leaning into that with curated spa experiences at prices that are hard to beat.

Here's what's on offer:

Foot Massage and  Massage Chair, Whether it's a quick midday reset or a thoughtful gift for a woman who deserves a little extra care  these offers tick both boxes without burning a hole in your pocket.

The resort's setting does the rest of the work. Stepping away from the usual rush, even for just an hour, can do a lot and having a calm, beautiful space to do it in makes the whole experience feel that much more special.

This Women's Day, Clarks Exotica is keeping it simple and meaningful — good care, honest prices, and a genuine invitation to slow down.

  • Date: 8th March 2026
  • Location: Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa

Sector 144 JP Nagar Is Hosting a Rooftop Women's Day Brunch — and It Sounds Like a Great Sunday

Sector 144 JP Nagar Is Hosting a Rooftop Women's Day Brunch — and It Sounds Like a Great Sunday

By Hariharan U

Published on March 7, 2026

Some celebrations don't need to be loud or over the top, sometimes the best ones are just good food, good people, and a rooftop with a view. And that's exactly the kind of Women's Day Sector 144 in JP Nagar is putting together.

The Bengaluru restaurant is marking the occasion with a specially curated Sunday brunch that keeps things relaxed, flavourful, and genuinely fun. Guests can pick from a thoughtful à la carte selection of dishes and refreshing beverages, all while soaking in the breezy rooftop ambience that the place is known for. It's the kind of afternoon that doesn't rush you, just lets you settle in, eat well, and enjoy the company around you.

The idea behind the brunch goes beyond just a meal. It's a small but heartfelt tribute to creativity, community, and the everyday warmth that women bring into the lives of those around them. Whether you're coming with your best friend, your mother, your colleagues, or just treating yourself the vibe is welcoming, the food is comforting, and the atmosphere is everything a lazy Sunday should feel like.

Comforting favourites sit alongside more contemporary plates on the menu, with drinks to match. The rooftop setting adds a light, open feel to the whole experience  lively enough to feel festive, but laid-back enough that you can actually slow down and savour the moment.

More than anything, it's about togetherness shared stories, joyful moments, and the kind of afternoon you'll want to repeat. Sector 144 has always had a warm, easy hospitality about it, and this Women's Day brunch feels like a natural extension of that.

Here are the details:

  • Where: Sector 144, JP Nagar — 4th Floor, above Style Union, JP Nagar 7th Phase, Karnataka 560078
  • When: 8th March 2026
  • Time: 12:30 PM onwards

If you're looking for a genuinely good way to spend Women's Day in Bengaluru, this one's worth showing up for.

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