Marriott International's Bold Expansion: 28 New Deals in South Asia

Marriott International's Bold Expansion: 28 New Deals in South Asia

By Author

Published on March 1, 2024

Marriott International, Inc. is set to significantly bolster its presence in South Asia with the announcement of 28 new deals, signalling a robust expansion strategy that will introduce over 4,600 rooms across the region by the end of 2024. This ambitious growth plan not only reaffirms Marriott's commitment to South Asia but also highlights the region's burgeoning potential within the global travel and tourism landscape.

Rajeev Menon, President of Asia Pacific excluding China for Marriott International, underscored the initiative's alignment with the dynamic expansion of the travel sector in South Asia. "Our strategic expansion in South Asia solidifies our commitment to accentuating the strong growth within the region's travel and tourism sector," Menon stated, emphasising the diverse brand portfolio and the award-winning Marriott Bonvoy program as key drivers of this growth.

In a move that reflects the evolving preferences of today's travellers for high-quality service and immersive experiences, 77 percent of the rooms signed in 2023 fall within the Luxury and Premium segments. This strategic focus is evidenced by the planned debut of iconic brands such as The Ritz-Carlton in Shimla and the JW Marriott in Bangladesh and India, enhancing Marriott's luxury offerings in sought-after leisure destinations.

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Kiran Andicot, Regional Vice President Development for South Asia at Marriott International, highlighted the significance of entering new markets and capitalising on key urban and resort destinations. "Our focus remains on capitalising on opportunities in key gateway cities, strategic commercial centres, and sought-after resort destinations throughout the region," Andicot remarked, pointing to the introduction of Marriott's portfolio in emerging destinations as a testament to its commitment to delivering unparalleled guest experiences.

The company's expansion strategy also includes a strong emphasis on the Select service segment, which caters to the demand for stylish, smart, and affordable hospitality options. Brands like Courtyard by Marriott and Fairfield by Marriott are expected to represent approximately 45 percent of the new openings in the next four years, marking significant growth across India.

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As Marriott International gears up to expand its footprint in South Asia, the company's existing portfolio of 160 operating properties across 17 distinct brands stands as a testament to its diverse offerings and commitment to excellence in hospitality. With the addition of new properties, Marriott continues to pave the way for innovative and differentiated experiences for travellers across the globe.

This expansion comes at a time when South Asia's tourism sector is poised for rapid recovery and growth. Experts, including Prof Haiyan Song of PATA and Hong Kong Polytechnic University, project a significant increase in visitor arrivals by 2026, further underscoring the region's appeal as a premier travel destination. Marriott International's strategic investments in South Asia not only contribute to this positive trajectory but also reinforce its position as a leader in the global hospitality industry.


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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