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.

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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.

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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.


Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida Elevates Guest Experience with Renovated Suites Featuring a Private Steam Room

Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida Elevates Guest Experience with Renovated Suites Featuring a Private Steam Room

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 20, 2026

Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida has unveiled its newly renovated suites, thoughtfully designed for business and leisure travellers looking for comfort, style, and modern convenience. These suites reflect the changing expectations of today’s guests, where elegant design meets practical luxury.

Located on the hotel’s higher floors, the suites offer sweeping panoramic views of the city skyline, setting a calm and relaxing tone for the stay. The overall design focuses on comfort, wellness, and functionality, making the suites ideal for guests who value both relaxation and efficiency.

The interiors feature Belgian hardwood flooring, adding warmth and a timeless appeal to the space. Each suite includes a separate living room and dining area, offering ample room to unwind or host informal meetings. The bedrooms are spacious and well-planned, with comfortable seating areas that allow guests to relax while taking in the city views.

To ensure year-round comfort while keeping sustainability in mind, the suites are fitted with advanced energy-efficient air-conditioning systems that provide effective climate control with reduced environmental impact.

For added convenience, the suites include an elegant powder room along with a large bathroom featuring either a walk-in shower or a soaking bathtub. Guests also have access to a well-designed walk-in wardrobe and generous luggage storage space.

One of the most distinctive features of these suites is the private steam room, a rare offering that adds an extra layer of relaxation and wellness for guests seeking a rejuvenating experience during their stay.

Entertainment and refreshments are equally well taken care of. A fully stocked bar cabinet meets all refreshment needs, while 65-inch LED televisions placed in both the living area and bedroom ensure a seamless and immersive viewing experience throughout the suite.

“Our goal has always been to create spaces where guests feel truly at home. These new suites are not just about luxury, they are about thoughtful design, wellness and moments of calm in the midst of a bustling city. Every detail, from the panoramic views to intricate interiors and the private steam room, is intended to make our guests' stay not only comfortable but memorable”. said Anurag Rai, General Manager, Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida.

Hotel Address:

  • Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida, District Centre, 13A, Mayur Vihar, New Delhi - 110091

Al Habtoor Palace, Dubai Retains Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Rating for 2026

Al Habtoor Palace, Dubai Retains Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Rating for 2026

By Hariharan U

Published on February 19, 2026

Al Habtoor Palace has retained its prestigious Four-Star rating in the 2026 Star Awards by Forbes Travel Guide, reaffirming its position among the world’s distinguished luxury hospitality destinations. The 68th annual Star Awards span 100 countries and recognise excellence in hotels, restaurants, spas, and cruise experiences.

Overlooking the scenic Dubai Water Canal, Al Habtoor Palace is renowned for its Beaux-Arts-inspired architecture and palatial interiors. The hotel features 182 guest rooms and 52 suites, offering a seamless blend of classical elegance and contemporary comfort. A signature highlight is its bespoke butler service, ensuring personalised attention and a refined guest journey from arrival to departure.

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Culinary excellence remains central to the hotel’s identity, with a curated collection of fine dining venues presenting world-class cuisine in sophisticated settings. Guests can also unwind at the award-winning spa, designed to deliver restorative treatments and holistic relaxation experiences.

Located within Al Habtoor City, the property enjoys prime access to Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai’s cultural and entertainment hubs. With state-of-the-art event spaces and elegant surroundings, the hotel continues to be a sought-after venue for corporate gatherings, weddings, and grand celebrations.

Stefan Radstrom, Complex General Manager of the Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, said, “We are truly honoured to be awarded the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Rating for 2026. This recognition celebrates our continuous dedication to delivering an exceptional experience for every guest. We take pride in offering unmatched service, refined comfort, and world-class amenities with every stay.”

Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide, added, “Forbes Travel Guide’s Star Award winners exemplify excellence in hospitality. This year’s list reflects the changing landscape of luxury, with properties setting the standard for authentic experiences while offering unparalleled amenities and enhanced well-being.”

The continued recognition underscores Al Habtoor Palace’s commitment to meticulous service, elevated experiences, and timeless luxury in the heart of Dubai.


Enrise by Sayaji, Latur Opens in MIDC Hub, Strengthening Marathwada’s Hospitality Infrastructure

Enrise by Sayaji, Latur Opens in MIDC Hub, Strengthening Marathwada’s Hospitality Infrastructure

By Hariharan U

Published on February 17, 2026

Enrise by Sayaji, Latur has officially opened in the city’s Old MIDC Area, marking a strategic addition to the hospitality infrastructure of Maharashtra’s Marathwada region. The 30-room property is designed to cater to Latur’s rapidly expanding industrial and business corridor, reinforcing the city’s position as one of India’s fast-growing tier-2 markets.

Latur, home to over 24 lakh residents (Census 2011), is recognised as a major soyabean trading centre and for its 11 cooperative sugar factories, earning it the title “Sugar Belt of Maharashtra.” The region’s strong agro-industrial base continues to generate sustained demand for quality business hospitality.

The hotel offers 30 rooms across three categories - 18 Deluxe Rooms, 9 Executive Rooms and 3 Premium Executive Rooms, tailored for business and leisure travellers. Expansive MICE and event facilities include four banquet venues: Jewel, accommodating up to 700 guests in a theatre-style setup; Solitaire for mid-sized gatherings; Crystal for corporate meetings; and Connect, an intimate boardroom space.

Dining options include two multi-cuisine restaurants, Momentt and Horizon, serving resident guests, business travellers and local diners.

Ajay Kanojia, Associate General Manager, Sayaji Hotels Ltd, stated that Latur aligns with the brand’s strategic expansion into high-potential growth markets, bringing its signature “Yours Truly” service ethos to the region. Mayur Garje, Managing Director, Garje Unit, highlighted the partnership’s role in elevating hospitality standards in the district.

Located 3 km from Latur Railway Station and 120 km from Solapur Airport, the property offers convenient connectivity for corporate travellers. The opening reflects Sayaji Hotels’ continued focus on expanding across emerging business destinations in India

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