Sarova Hotels: Celebrating 50 Years of Hospitality Excellence

Sarova Hotels: Celebrating 50 Years of Hospitality Excellence

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 3, 2024

Kenya's tourism industry is celebrating a significant milestone as Sarova Hotels & Resorts marks its 50th anniversary in April 2024. This golden jubilee not only commemorates five decades of exceptional service but also highlights the brand's deep-rooted values and commitment to showcasing the best of Kenya.

Sarova Hotels was founded in 1974 by G.S. Vohra, Mohinder Singh Vohra, and John Ngata Kariuki. The name SAROVA is an acronym derived from the first names of their wives: Swaran Vohra, Rose Kariuki, and Varsha Vohra. The journey began with the acquisition of the Ambassadeur Hotel on Moi Avenue, a venture that set the foundation for Sarova's growth in the hospitality industry.

image

Over the years, Sarova has expanded its footprint across Kenya, establishing a portfolio of nine properties that reflect a commitment to quality and innovation. These include:

  • Sarova Stanley and Sarova Panafric in Nairobi

  • Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa in Mombasa

  • Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa and Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge in Nakuru

  • Sarova Shaba Game Lodge in Samburu

  • Sarova Mara Game Camp in Masai Mara

  • Sarova Imperial Hotel in Kisumu

  • Sarova Maiyan in Nanyuki

In 2023, Sarova launched its first standalone specialty restaurant, Thai Chi by Sarova in Nairobi, expanding its culinary excellence beyond the well-known Thai Chi Restaurant at Sarova Stanley.

A key highlight of Sarova's journey is its dedication to nurturing talent, fostering diversity, and empowering local communities through employment and skill development. The brand's people-centric approach translates into exceptional service, where every interaction is infused with warmth and genuine care.

Sarova is also committed to sustainable practices that ensure the well-being of the environment and the communities in which it operates. Under the banner Sarova Cares, the brand has implemented initiatives such as responsible waste management, water conservation, and the use of renewable energy. These efforts ensure that Kenya's natural beauty is preserved for future generations.

image

The 50th anniversary celebrations at Sarova Stanley highlighted the brand's resilience, adaptability, and enduring commitment to quality and innovation. Jimi Kariuki, MD of Sarova Hotels, remarked, "Achieving 50 years of operation is not merely a milestone but a hallmark of resilience, adaptation, and enduring commitment to quality and innovation. It places Sarova Hotels & Resorts in an elite group that has withstood the test of time, evolving with technological advancements, economic shifts, and changing consumer behaviors."

Mita Vohra, Director of Sales, Marketing, Revenue & Distribution, added, "Sarova Hotels is a heartwarming story of family and friendships coming together to realize a dream in hospitality. Celebrating this milestone of 50 years is a tribute to our founders and all of you, our partners, who have anchored and supported us through the decades. With each passing year, Sarova's future looks brighter than ever."

As Sarova Hotels celebrates its golden jubilee, it continues to offer guests not just luxury, but a deep connection to Kenya's land, people, and culture. The brand's unwavering dedication to showcasing the best of Kenya ensures that every stay is an unforgettable experience, leaving guests with memories that last long after they depart.

Happy 50th Anniversary, Sarova! Here’s to many more years of hospitality excellence.


Le Méridien Ahmedabad Celebrates One Year of Culture, Creativity and Hospitality

Le Méridien Ahmedabad Celebrates One Year of Culture, Creativity and Hospitality

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 7, 2026

Le Méridien Ahmedabad has completed one year since its transformation from Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad, marking a year of offering guests culturally inspired hospitality experiences rooted in creativity, design and discovery.

Following its rebranding last year, the hotel introduced Le Méridien's signature approach to hospitality, combining mid-century modern design with a European-inspired philosophy of savouring life's meaningful moments. Located in Ahmedabad, a city known for its architectural heritage, vibrant textiles and evolving culinary scene, the hotel continues to create experiences that connect guests with the city's rich cultural identity.

The property offers a range of thoughtfully curated experiences across its dining and social spaces. Java+, the brand's signature café, serves as a contemporary venue for coffee, conversations and casual gatherings. Drift provides a refined setting for private celebrations and intimate family occasions with bespoke dining experiences and city skyline views, while Bayleaf showcases the flavours of Awadhi cuisine through traditional recipes inspired by regional culinary heritage.

Le Méridien Ahmedabad also continues to enhance guest experiences through wellness offerings, contemporary social spaces and immersive programmes designed to encourage meaningful engagement with Ahmedabad's cultural and culinary landscape.

Signature brand experiences, including La Vie and destination-inspired programmes centred around culture, cuisine and creativity, remain key elements of the hotel's guest experience, reflecting Le Méridien's philosophy of helping travellers discover destinations in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Commenting on the milestone, Prashant Chadha, General Manager, Le Méridien Ahmedabad, said, "Le Méridien has always been a brand rooted in culture, creativity and discovery. Over the last year, our focus at Le Méridien Ahmedabad has been on thoughtfully bringing that philosophy to the city through experiences that feel immersive, contemporary and connected to Ahmedabad's rich cultural identity."

He further added, "The transition to Le Méridien Ahmedabad gave us the opportunity to evolve the guest experience while continuing to build on the strong legacy the property has enjoyed over the years. From coffee culture programmes and destination dining concepts to wellness-led offerings and curated experiences, the focus has been on creating moments that encourage guests to pause, connect and savour the good life."

As it enters its second year, Le Méridien Ahmedabad continues to strengthen its position as a contemporary hospitality destination where culture, creativity and connection come together to offer guests memorable stays in one of India's most vibrant cities.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Celebrates Bastille Day with Authentic French Culinary Experience

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Celebrates Bastille Day with Authentic French Culinary Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on July 7, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport is set to bring the flavours of France to the city with a special Bastille Day celebration on 14 July 2026 at its signature restaurant, Food Exchange. The evening will be dedicated to showcasing France’s culinary heritage through a thoughtfully curated dining experience.

Designed to reflect the charm of Parisian bistros and the warmth of French countryside cooking, the celebration will feature an extensive selection of artisanal cheeses including Brie, Camembert, Roquefort and Comté, served with traditional accompaniments such as cornichons, Dijon mustard, olives and freshly baked baguettes.

Guests can begin their culinary journey with classic French hors d’oeuvres like Gougères, Salmon Rillettes on Crostini, Pâté de Campagne and Olive Tapenade, setting the tone for an authentic and elegant dining experience.

The menu continues with iconic French dishes such as French Onion Soup, Coq au Vin, Crème Brûlée and Tarte Tatin, each crafted to highlight the depth and richness of traditional French cuisine. The experience is designed to balance comfort and sophistication, offering guests a true taste of France.

No Bastille Day celebration would be complete without desserts, and the evening will conclude with a lavish pâtisserie spread featuring Éclairs, Profiteroles, Madeleines, Crêpes Suzette and Mousse au Chocolat, alongside classic favourites like Tarte Tatin.

Speaking through the concept of the evening, the hotel aims to transport guests into the heart of France through flavours that celebrate both tradition and craftsmanship.

The Bastille Day dinner will take place at Food Exchange, Novotel Hyderabad Airport, from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM,


Treat Hotels Signs New Property in Vrindavan, Expands North India Portfolio

Treat Hotels Signs New Property in Vrindavan, Expands North India Portfolio

By Hariharan U

Published on July 6, 2026

Treat Hotels has announced the signing of Treat Hotels, Vrindavan, further strengthening its presence in North India with a new hospitality project in one of the country's most significant spiritual destinations.

Located close to Vrindavan's revered temples, the upcoming hotel is being developed to offer contemporary comfort while reflecting the city's cultural and spiritual heritage. The property is scheduled to open in 2027.

The hotel will feature 72 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, a multi-cuisine vegetarian restaurant, a rooftop swimming pool, and a spacious banquet hall designed to host weddings, celebrations, and social gatherings.

According to the company, the signing represents more than a portfolio expansion, as it marks Treat Hotels' entry into a destination closely associated with the life and legacy of Lord Shri Krishna and visited by millions of pilgrims and tourists every year.

The company stated that the project has been planned to complement Vrindavan's spiritual character while providing modern hospitality experiences for both leisure travellers and devotees visiting the holy city.

Treat Hotels also expressed gratitude to its development partners for their confidence in the brand and said it looks forward to welcoming guests when the property opens in 2027.

The signing forms part of Treat Hotels' broader expansion strategy as the company continues to grow its footprint across key leisure, pilgrimage, and business destinations 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.