Rosewood Hotel Group's Impact Trailblazers

Rosewood Hotel Group's Impact Trailblazers

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 1, 2024

The Rosewood Hotel Group has introduced a groundbreaking initiative called the Impact Trailblazers, representing its most socially and environmentally progressive properties. These six properties, known as the Impact Trailblazers, are leading the way towards a more equitable and sustainable future. 

They are Rosewood Hong Kong, Rosewood Baha Mar, Rosewood São Paulo, Rosewood Phnom Penh, Rosewood Mayakoba, and Rosewood Phuket. These properties have committed to achieving ambitious sustainability goals by 2025, focusing on eliminating single-use plastics, achieving carbon neutrality, waste diversion, local sourcing of produce and protein, developing meaningful community partnerships, and transforming restaurants into businesses with a purpose.

From eco-conscious culinary creations to sustainable design elements, each Rosewood hotel embodies a dedication to the planet and its people. 

  • Staffed by refugees and ethnic minorities, Rosewood Hong Kong’s BluHouse pledges 1% of revenue to support underserved groups in the hotel’s neighborhood, fostering inclusivity and empowerment.

  • Partnering with the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF), the Rosewood Baha Mar in Nassau offers immersive educational experiences at the Coral Reef Sculpture Garden. 

  • Rosewood São Paulo in Brazil exemplifies a people-first approach, operating on 100% renewable energy and nearly zero waste. Over 45% of their workforce comes from underserved groups, embodying its dedication to social empowerment.

  • Achieving LEED Gold Certification, the Rosewood Phuket in Thailand boasts the largest solar energy system in Phuket and comprehensive recycling facilities. Its signature restaurant, Ta Khai, sources 100% of its ingredients locally, championing indigenous practices and supporting the local economy.

  • Rosewood Mayakoba in Riviera Maya, Mexico, empowers its community through its partnership with Centro Educativo K’iin Beh, a non-profit school. By reopening this school in 2017 and providing economic support to students, the resort fosters educational opportunities and community development. 

  • Rosewood Phnom Penh in Cambodia celebrates the country's cultural traditions while prioritizing partnerships that uplift local livelihoods and care for the environment. Its community partnerships, such as with Phare Ponleu Selpak, provide artistic and vocational training to Cambodian youth, empowering them to create a brighter future.

Through their efforts, these properties are not only making a positive difference in their communities but also shaping the future of the brand. Mehvesh Mumtaz Ahmed, Vice President of Social Impact at Rosewood Hotel Group, says “Rosewood Impacts has always been about recognizing not only what we should and can be doing now, but also how we can continue to push ourselves towards better solutions for the future. The Impact Trailblazers are critical to this mission, with ambitions going above and beyond our current sustainability and social impact goals.”

These Impact Trailblazers serve as beacons of luxury and responsibility, demonstrating how the two can coalesce to create meaningful connections with guests, communities, associates, and the environment. Through their efforts, they are not only shaping the future of the Rosewood brand but also paving the way for groundbreaking achievements in circular hospitality and community empowerment.

Each Impact Trailblazer property showcases unique initiatives tailored to its local context. From boosting local businesses and preserving cultural traditions to championing coral conservation and supporting underserved communities, these properties are driving positive change on both a local and global scale.

For more information about Rosewood Hotel Group and its initiatives, visit rosewoodhotelgroup.com. Connect with them on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WeChat @RosewoodHotels.


Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels Launches UAE Engagement for Eco-Tourism

Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels Launches UAE Engagement for Eco-Tourism

By Hariharan U

Published on October 9, 2025

Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels has launched a UAE engagement initiative as part of its Global Alliance Collaborator (GAC) program. The program connects communities and organizations across the UAE with global partners, supporting the development of movable underwater hotels at 33 destinations worldwide.

The eco-luxury underwater hotels, designed under a U.S. Patent-approved concept, will feature 26 guest suites located about 30 feet below the surface, offering panoramic views of marine ecosystems. The project also integrates coral reef restoration using Biorock technology, promoting biodiversity and long-term sustainability.

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Tony Webb, founder of Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels, said, "Our vision is to create opportunities for collaboration between nations while protecting fragile marine environments. By inviting participation from the Emirates, we see alignment with regional strategies such as Dubai’s D33 Agenda and Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030."

As part of the initiative, local organizations in the UAE are encouraged to promote participation in the GAC program. The program offers employment opportunities in hotel and resort operations and provides a platform for regional media to raise awareness about sustainable tourism and marine conservation.

Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels emphasizes community involvement, workforce development, and environmental benefits. A core aspect of the initiative is supporting coral reef restoration to enhance local ecosystems while contributing to global sustainability goals.

About Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels LLC

Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels, LLC is an international eco-tourism venture developing movable underwater hotels that combine luxury travel with marine conservation. Based on U.S. Patent Design D736,947, the project integrates advanced engineering, sustainable practices, and global community collaboration.

For more information, visit Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels or contact Tony Webb via email at info@PlanetOceanUnderwaterHotel.com.


Sterling Launches Sterling Ameris Kasauli, Its 5th Resort in Himachal

Sterling Launches Sterling Ameris Kasauli, Its 5th Resort in Himachal

By Hariharan U

Published on October 9, 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts has launched Sterling Ameris Kasauli, a boutique retreat nestled amidst pine-clad slopes and panoramic Shivalik views. Located along the scenic Dharampur–Kasauli Road, the resort invites travellers to slow down and rediscover mindful mountain living.

Once a colonial hamlet, Kasauli has grown into one of North India’s most loved escapes, where misty mornings, heritage trails, and a gentle pace of life blend seamlessly. Just a short drive from Chandigarh and Delhi NCR, Sterling Ameris Kasauli offers peace, wellness, and understated sophistication for travellers seeking a serene getaway.

The resort features Shivalik-facing rooms with private sit-outs, combining contemporary mountain chic with natural elegance. Warm palettes, handcrafted accents, and design simplicity mirror the quiet grace of its surroundings.

Dining at Valley View offers more than a meal, it’s a mindful experience. The pure-vegetarian menu features local classics like Siddu, Sepu Vadi, and Cholai Kheer, reinterpreted with modern sensibilities and served against panoramic mountain views. As evening falls, the terrace transforms into an open-air lounge, ideal for yoga, relaxation, or leisurely conversations.

As part of Sterling’s Discoveries & Experiences program, guests can explore Gilbert Trail, Manki Point, Christ Church, Sunset Point, or join guided pine walks to fully experience Kasauli’s charm.

Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO of Sterling Holiday Resorts, said, "Sterling Ameris Kasauli reflects our intent to grow with purpose, expanding into destinations that embody serenity, design, and discovery. Our ‘What a Trip’ curated circuits link destinations like Kasauli, Chail, Shimla, and Kufri into immersive travel experiences, shaping a soulful travel ecosystem across India."

Madhav Gupta, Director of Satvik Bliss Pvt. Ltd., added, "Our vision for Ameris Kasauli was to create a retreat that honours the land’s natural grace while offering guests refined simplicity. Partnering with Sterling was a natural choice, and together we hope to present Kasauli as a destination that stays with you long after you leave."

About Sterling Holiday Resorts

Sterling Holiday Resorts is a leading hospitality brand in India with a footprint across hills, beaches, jungles, heritage, and spiritual destinations. With five resorts in Himachal Pradesh, including Chail, Kasauli, Kufri, Shimla, and Manali, Sterling offers immersive experiences for today’s travellers. A wholly managed subsidiary of Thomas Cook (India) Limited, Sterling continues to blend local character with national scale, crafting memorable stays across India’s favourite holiday destinations.


ITC Hotels Signs New Luxury Property in Patna

ITC Hotels Signs New Luxury Property in Patna

By Hariharan U

Published on October 8, 2025

ITC Hotels is expanding its luxury portfolio with a new 140-room property in Patna, in collaboration with Kumar Infra Hotel Private Limited (KIHPL). The hotel, set on a 1.5-acre site, is expected to raise the bar for luxury accommodation and dining in Bihar and the surrounding region.

The project was awarded to KIHPL through a competitive government bid under Bihar’s tourism development initiatives, with ITC Hotels finalised as the operator. The property will offer world-class amenities, meeting facilities, and curated experiences that reflect the cultural and heritage ethos of the region.

Speaking on the announcement, Anil Chadha, Managing Director of ITC Hotels, said, "It shall be a privilege to showcase our iconic culinary and service excellence in Bihar through this ITC Luxury Hotel. Our luxury properties epitomize the culture and ethos of each destination offering indigenous experiences while celebrating the rich heritage of the region through distinctive architecture, arts, crafts & rituals."

Manish Kumar, Director of KIHPL, added, "We are excited and honoured to have entered into management agreements with ITC Hotels for a new luxury hotel in Patna. It is a matter of pride for us to develop this project with the vision of Bihar Government to strengthen the commercial and cultural identity of Patna. We look forward to our association with ITC Hotels to develop an iconic luxury project to elevate the tourism potential and hospitality landscape of Bihar."

The upcoming ITC Hotel in Patna is expected to attract both business and leisure travellers, contributing to the growth of the state’s hospitality sector while offering guests a luxury experience that highlights the city’s culture and charm.

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