ROHL Signs Unique Experiential Regenta Resort in Mysore

ROHL Signs Unique Experiential Regenta Resort in Mysore

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 16, 2025

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) is taking experiential hospitality to a whole new level with the signing of Regenta Resort Tropical Village in Mysore. This one-of-its-kind resort will offer a globally inspired village experience, combining sustainability with immersive cultural storytelling.

Set amidst lush natural surroundings, the newly signed property will operate under ROHL’s franchise model as part of its asset-light growth strategy. The resort will feature 35 themed cottages, each inspired by the unique architecture, cuisine, and lifestyle of different continents—offering guests a passport-free global experience. Adding to the charm is Mangala Kutira, a dedicated block of 12 rooms that will celebrate India’s Pancha Bhootas and Pancha Tattva, giving visitors a deep dive into ancient Indian philosophy and design.

Commenting on the signing, Arjun Baljee, President, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., shared:

“Mysore has always been close to our heart, and we wanted to bring something truly new to this historic city. The Regenta Resort Tropical Village is our way of blending wellness, cultural richness, and sustainability into one holistic offering. We’re thrilled to collaborate with Mr. Mahesh, the visionary behind Tropical Village, to bring this unique concept to life.”

image

The resort aims to attract both business and leisure travellers. It will include an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty kitchen for non-vegetarian cuisine, and a Healthy Bar serving detox juices and traditional wellness drinks. In line with its eco-conscious approach, the property will also feature a natural swimming pool, traditional games from across continents, and a children’s play area.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, there’s a Yoga Hall, a full-service Wellness Centre, and banqueting spaces including a lush 12,000 sq. ft. outdoor lawn, ideal for events and celebrations.

Mr. Mahesh, Owner of Tropical Village, added:

image

“Regenta Resort Tropical Village is a celebration of traditional hospitality and cultural diversity. We're excited to partner with ROHL and believe this concept will add tremendous value to Mysore’s growing tourism landscape.”

Known for its royal charm, spiritual retreats, and laid-back lifestyle, Mysore is fast emerging as a preferred destination for those seeking meaningful, wellness-centric travel. With this new signing, ROHL continues its mission of creating authentic and memorable guest experiences that go beyond the ordinary.


Marriott to Bring Westin to Ludhiana with Vardhman Amrante

Marriott to Bring Westin to Ludhiana with Vardhman Amrante

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 7, 2025

Marriott International has signed an agreement with Vardhman Amrante, an Oswal Group venture, to bring its premium wellness-focused Westin brand to Ludhiana. The Westin Ludhiana is slated to open in the last quarter of 2030, marking the brand’s debut in Punjab’s industrial and cultural hub.

Planned as part of a vibrant mixed-use development, the new hotel will feature 200 keys alongside retail outlets, a multiplex, and a gaming zone, adding fresh energy to Ludhiana’s growing urban landscape.

Highlighting Marriott’s strategic expansion into high-growth markets, Ranju Alex, regional vice president – South Asia, Marriott International, shared, “Through this collaboration, we aim to redefine guest service while unlocking Ludhiana’s potential. The Westin Ludhiana will empower guests to be the best version of themselves, maintaining their well-being even as they travel.”

image

Echoing the excitement, Adish Oswal, chairman of Oswal Group, said, “We’re thrilled to partner with Marriott International to bring the acclaimed Westin brand to Ludhiana. This development is set to become a landmark, offering a wellness-driven luxury experience that matches the city’s growing stature as a regional powerhouse.”

The Westin Ludhiana promises a robust mix of experiences — from multiple dining venues and a chic Lobby Bar to the WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio, Heavenly Spa by Westin, and an outdoor pool. Business and leisure travellers alike will benefit from the expansive banqueting spaces, lush outdoor lawns, and an exclusive Executive Club Lounge.

With its focus on holistic wellness, the upcoming hotel underscores Marriott’s continued commitment to cater to evolving traveller needs and further strengthen its footprint across India.


Hyatt Hotels to Sell Playa’s Real Estate Portfolio for $2 Billion

Hyatt Hotels to Sell Playa’s Real Estate Portfolio for $2 Billion

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 5, 2025

Hyatt Hotels is doubling down on its asset-light strategy with a major move—selling Playa Hotels’ real estate portfolio to Tortuga Resorts for $2 billion. This follows Hyatt’s acquisition of Playa in February for $2.6 billion, including debt. Playa operates 24 luxury all-inclusive resorts across Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic.

The sale covers 15 of Playa’s resort assets, effectively reducing Hyatt’s net purchase price for the remaining Playa business to around $555 million. The deal, still pending regulatory nods in Mexico, is expected to close before the end of 2025.

image

As part of the arrangement, Hyatt and Tortuga will enter into 50-year agreements for these properties, allowing Hyatt to continue managing the resorts. Thirteen of the resorts will operate under Hyatt’s standard management fee structures, with two under separate agreements.

Hyatt CEO Mark Hoplamazian called the move transformational, noting it turns the Playa acquisition into a fully asset-light transaction. "It also ramps up our fee-based earnings," he added. Hyatt now anticipates its asset-light earnings mix could hit at least 90% by 2027.

Analysts view the swift real estate divestment positively, seeing it as a smart way for Hyatt to stay nimble while bolstering returns. Proceeds from this deal will primarily go toward repaying loans taken to finance the Playa buyout.


Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach Earns Green Key Certification

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach Earns Green Key Certification

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 5, 2025

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, a flagship Accor property, has proudly announced that it has been awarded the Green Key Certification, a globally recognised eco-label that underscores excellence in sustainable tourism and hospitality.

Granted by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE)—one of the world’s leading environmental education organisations and recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)—the certification marks a significant milestone in the hotel’s ongoing efforts to integrate eco-friendly practices without compromising guest comfort or luxury.

Lakshmi Sridhar, General Manager, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, said, “At Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, we believe that sustainability is not just a responsibility, but a way of life. Being Green Key certified reinforces our commitment to offering eco-conscious experiences that align with global environmental standards.”

image

The hotel has rolled out various impactful initiatives, from using clean, renewable energy and implementing robust waste management practices to driving water conservation, enhancing energy efficiency, and sustainably sourcing products. These measures are designed to benefit not only the environment but also the local community.

As travel trends increasingly lean towards conscious luxury and responsible tourism, this certification positions Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach as a leader in sustainable hospitality in India.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.