Minor Hotels Announces First NH Collection Property in Thailand

Minor Hotels Announces First NH Collection Property in Thailand

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 6, 2024

Minor Hotels, a leading hospitality group, has announced the upcoming rebranding of Peace Resort Samui into NH Collection Samui, marking the arrival of NH Collection – an upscale brand synonymous with European refinement – to Thailand. From 1st January 2025, following a property upgrade, the resort will start operating as NH Collection Samui.

The 122-key property enjoys a prime location directly on Bophut Beach, nestled along the northern shore of Koh Samui at the foot of a lush hill, offering privacy and tranquillity while remaining conveniently close to shopping and entertainment. Originally established in 1977 by the Pupaiboon family, the property has been independently operated ever since, becoming a popular holiday destination for generations of Thais and international guests.

The resort is strategically positioned within easy reach of the vibrant Fisherman’s Village that is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. A mere 400 meters from NH Collection Samui, a sister property, Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, offers a host of upscale leisure and dining options, suggesting an opportunity for shared facilities and additional benefits.

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Catering to a wide variety of travelers, from solo vacationers to extended families, NH Collection Samui offers a mix of deluxe rooms, bungalows, and villas, some with private swimming pools and direct beach access. The all-day-dining restaurant serves local and global flavors alongside ocean views; the bar pours passionate drinks from its strategic position between the pool and the beach; and the lobby-side Indigo Lounge is an elegant haven of tea and cakes. Seafood and meat lovers can also request a private in-villa BBQ experience.

Recreational facilities abound, including a fitness center, water sports center, and kids’ and teens’ facilities ranging from cinema and indoor play area to a shaded outdoor playground. For necessities, there is a thoughtfully stocked retail shop, while flexible meeting and event spaces will showcase NH Collection’s signature blend of intuitive service, top-range technology, and unexpected design touches.

“We are thrilled to partner with the esteemed Pupaiboon family to bring the first NH Collection hotel to Thailand as part of the brand’s expansion outside of Europe and Americas,” said Mark O’Sullivan, Vice President of Operations - Bangkok, Samui, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. “Our joint vision for the beloved resort includes potential further development down the line, including stand-alone villas or branded residential units for sale to meet a growing demand for upscale holiday homes and investment properties. I look forward to welcoming guests to this exceptional addition to our collection of resorts in Thailand.”

Samui Airport is approximately 15-20 minutes by car. Nathon Pier, which connects Koh Samui to Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Phangan, and other popular destinations, is a 25-minute drive away. NH Collection Samui joins Minor Hotels’ portfolio as the fifth property on the island and over twenty in Thailand.

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About NH Collection Hotels & Resorts:

NH Collection is Minor Hotels’ upper-upscale brand, noteworthy for its unique and emblematic hotels in principle cities of Europe, the Americas, and Middle East. Based on the chain’s premium value proposition, these hotels retain their local character to inspire and captivate their guests. Striving for going beyond ordinary, NH Collection Hotels are thoroughly designed for those who want to make the most of their stays and live moments truly extraordinary through unique, creative, and innovative experiences.

At NH Collection hotels, the staff provides the utmost attention to detail, ensuring that guests continuously enjoy extraordinary experiences and personalized service. Whether for business or leisure travel and for those seeking relaxing moments, NH Collection hotels offer inspiring, versatile, and stimulating venues that maximize creativity and enjoyment.

About Minor Hotels:

Minor Hotels is a global hospitality group operating over 550 hotels, resorts, and residences in 56 countries, pursuing its vision of crafting a more passionate and interconnected world. As a hotel owner, operator, and investor, Minor Hotels fulfills the needs and desires of today’s global travelers through its diverse portfolio of eight hotel brands – Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks, and Tivoli – and a collection of related businesses. Minor Hotels is rapidly accelerating its global growth ambitions, aiming to add more than 200 hotels by the end of 2026.

Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands, and participates in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.

For more information, please visit minorhotels.com and connect with Minor Hotels on Facebook and LinkedIn.


IHCL Signs Tree of Life Resort in Sakaleshpur, Karnataka

IHCL Signs Tree of Life Resort in Sakaleshpur, Karnataka

By Hariharan U

Published on January 11, 2026

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the signing of a Tree of Life resort in Sakaleshpur, Karnataka, expanding its footprint in one of the state’s emerging leisure destinations. The signing reflects IHCL’s focus on boutique and experiential hospitality in underexplored markets with strong tourism potential.

Sakaleshpur, known for its plantation landscapes and heritage appeal, is steadily gaining attention as tourism becomes an important economic driver in the region. The destination’s calm setting and natural beauty have led to a growing interest in immersive and personalised stays, especially among travellers seeking quiet, nature-focused getaways.

Commenting on the development, Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said,
"Sakaleshpur is a pristine destination in Karnataka that blends heritage with plantation landscapes. With tourism emerging as a strong economic driver here, experiential and boutique stays are witnessing growing demand. This signing marks IHCL’s early entry into an underpenetrated micro-market, enabling us to cater to discerning travellers seeking immersive leisure experiences. The Tree of Life resort will strengthen our presence along the Western Ghats and reinforce IHCL’s boutique positioning in this evolving destination belt. We are delighted to partner with Mystica Retreats LLP for this project."

Set amidst the Western Ghats, the 40-key Tree of Life Sakaleshpur is envisioned as a peaceful retreat surrounded by forests and a perennial stream. Staying true to the Tree of Life philosophy, the resort will focus on calm, comfort, and connection with nature. Planned facilities include an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, wellness amenities such as a swimming pool, treatment room, yoga space, and a range of thoughtfully designed guest experiences.

Sharing their views on the partnership, Mr. Sharanabasava Meti and Mr. Kemparaju of Mystica Retreats LLP said,
"We are pleased to partner with IHCL for this project and look forward to creating a unique getaway for travellers seeking a quiet escape."

Sakaleshpur offers a mix of trekking trails, heritage sites, and plantation tourism, with attractions such as Manjarabad Fort, Kaginahare Fort, Bisle Ghat Viewpoint, Jenukal Gudda, and the ruins within the Kaginahare Forest, making it an attractive destination for slow and meaningful travel.

With this signing, IHCL’s portfolio in Karnataka will grow to 34 hotels, including 19 under development, further reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to the state.

Mystica Retreats LLP is promoted by Mr. Sharanabasava Meti and Mr. Kemparaju, both experienced entrepreneurs with interests across infrastructure, hospitality, real estate, agriculture, cinema, and education. Their collaboration with IHCL aims to create a refined yet relaxed retreat aligned with the destination’s natural character.

IHCL and its subsidiaries bring together a wide range of hospitality brands, offering a blend of Indian warmth and global service standards. With a strong domestic and international presence, the company continues to expand across leisure and business destinations, strengthening its position as India’s largest hospitality company.


Golden Tulip to Debut in Virat Nagar, Jaipur

Golden Tulip to Debut in Virat Nagar, Jaipur

By Hariharan U

Published on January 10, 2026

SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting has successfully brought together Green Oasis Hospitality Pvt Ltd and Sarovar Hotels to introduce Golden Tulip in Virat Nagar, Jaipur. This strategic brand partnership marks an important addition to Rajasthan’s growing hospitality landscape, with the upcoming property positioned as a premium four-star hotel.

Planned as a 110-room development, Golden Tulip Virat Nagar is designed to serve a balanced mix of business and leisure travellers, while also emerging as a preferred destination for large-format social gatherings. Located on the outskirts of Jaipur, Virat Nagar has been identified as a high-potential micro-market, particularly for destination weddings, corporate offsites, and upscale retreats.

SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting played a key role in aligning the hospitality asset with the right brand to unlock long-term value. By bringing Golden Tulip, part of the Sarovar Hotels portfolio, to the project, Green Oasis Hospitality gains access to a strong global distribution network and professional hotel management expertise, setting the stage for sustained revenue growth from the outset.

Highlighting the vision behind the partnership, Sandeep Roy, Founder & CEO, SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting, said, "Jaipur’s periphery is evolving into a powerhouse for high-end social events and leisure retreats. Facilitating this partnership between Green Oasis and Sarovar Hotels ensures that Virat Nagar gains a premier asset designed to capture the growing demand for large-format weddings and upscale staycations."

Golden Tulip Virat Nagar, Jaipur is being thoughtfully planned with a strong focus on events and premium guest experiences. The hotel will feature 110 spacious luxury rooms, each with a minimum size of 400 square feet, including a select number of exclusive plunge pool rooms.

The property’s food and beverage offerings will include a signature all-day dining restaurant and a contemporary lounge bar, catering to both resident guests and event attendees. For social and corporate functions, the hotel will house a grand banquet hall spanning 6,500 square feet, supported by multiple conference halls suited for meetings and MICE requirements.

One of the key highlights of the development is its expansive outdoor event infrastructure. The hotel will offer multiple landscaped lawns, with the largest covering 13,000 square feet, specifically designed to host large-scale destination weddings and celebratory events. Additional amenities will include a swimming pool, a fully equipped gym and spa, and a dedicated kids play area, ensuring a complete leisure experience for families and groups.

With this signing, Virat Nagar is set to gain a landmark hospitality asset that aligns with Jaipur’s evolving demand for premium stays and large-format event venues, further strengthening the region’s appeal as a luxury wedding and leisure destination.


ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Expands Footprint with The Hoften Vibranta Haridwar

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Expands Footprint with The Hoften Vibranta Haridwar

By Hariharan U

Published on January 10, 2026

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts has announced the strategic addition of The Hoften Vibranta Haridwar to its growing portfolio, further strengthening its presence in Uttarakhand. With this partnership, the hospitality group now operates three properties in the state, underlining its long-term commitment to India’s most visited spiritual and leisure destinations.

Haridwar holds a special place in India’s cultural and spiritual landscape. Located at the foothills of the Himalayas, where the holy Ganges enters the plains, the city continues to draw pilgrims and travellers from across the country. As part of Devbhumi, Uttarakhand’s appeal goes beyond faith, with a rising demand for comfortable, well-managed stays that cater to both spiritual visitors and leisure travellers.

The inclusion of The Hoften Vibranta allows ALIVAA to address this evolving travel need, combining the calm of a spiritual destination with THE HOFTEN’s guest-first approach and refined comfort. The region’s natural beauty and cultural depth offer an ideal setting for a hospitality experience that balances tradition with modern expectations.

Sharing his thoughts on the expansion, Akash Bhatia, CEO of ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, said,"The addition of The Hoften Vibranta Haridwar is a pivotal milestone in our growth strategy. Uttarakhand is a core market for us, and Haridwar’s unique position as both a spiritual epicentre and a gateway to the Himalayas makes it an invaluable asset. We are committed to bringing our high standards of operational excellence to this historic city."

Inder Pal Batra, Co-Founder of ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, added, "Our goal has always been to bridge the gap between traditional hospitality and sophisticated modern living. With our third property in Uttarakhand, we are creating a seamless circuit for travellers looking to explore the beauty and divinity of the North. The Hoften Vibranta embodies the spirit of Haridwar while maintaining the contemporary refinement THE HOFTEN is known for."

Welcoming the collaboration, Mr. Anubhav Siwach, Owner of Vibranta Hotels & Resorts, said, "We are thrilled to join forces with ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts. Their expertise in management and brand positioning is exactly what we were looking for to elevate the guest experience at The Hoften Vibranta. Together, we aim to set a new benchmark for distinguished hospitality in Haridwar."

Mr. Deepak, Owner of Vibranta Hotels & Resorts, also highlighted the shift in traveller expectations, stating, "Haridwar is evolving, and today’s traveller seeks more than just proximity to the temples; they seek quality and reliability. Partnering with ALIVAA ensures that The Hoften Vibranta will become a preferred destination for discerning guests visiting Uttarakhand."

Based in Gurugram, ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts continues to focus on curated travel experiences through strategic growth across key leisure and business markets. The brand blends local character with international service standards, aiming to deliver consistency and comfort across destinations.

Located in the heart of Haridwar, The Hoften Vibranta offers modern amenities paired with traditional warmth. With well-appointed rooms, multi-cuisine dining options, and contemporary facilities, the property is designed to suit both pilgrims and modern explorers looking for an elevated yet dependable stay.

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