Sofitel Expands into Africa with New Luxury Hotel in Benin

Sofitel Expands into Africa with New Luxury Hotel in Benin

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 29, 2024

Sofitel Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of the Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa in Benin, marking a significant step in the brand’s growth across Africa. Located on Benin’s scenic coastline, this new addition showcases Sofitel’s blend of French elegance and local Beninese culture. As the brand’s 16th property in Africa, this hotel represents Sofitel’s commitment to expanding its presence on the continent, where the hospitality sector is rapidly growing.

Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, MGallery, and Emblems, shared her excitement about the opening: “A pioneer of French luxury hospitality for 60 years, Sofitel today embodies refined and committed luxury, blending French elegance with a strong local presence. I am delighted to announce the opening of this first Sofitel in Benin, where I hope each of our guests will discover the magic of the French art de vivre, enriched by Beninese culture. I would like to warmly thank everyone who contributed to the opening of this flagship, which also marks our commitment to expanding on the African continent, a market with immense potential.”

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Sofitel’s entry into Benin is part of its larger strategy to expand in Africa, a continent experiencing fast-paced urbanization and economic growth. With cities emerging as cultural and economic hubs, Africa is attracting increased interest from the hospitality sector. By 2050, Africa’s population is expected to exceed 2.5 billion, driving growth in tourism and business travel. Sofitel’s new hotel in Benin aligns with the brand’s focus on providing luxury experiences in key African markets.

Benin is positioning itself as a top destination for both tourism and business, with its rich cultural heritage and stable political environment. The Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa is located in the heart of Cotonou, the country’s economic capital, near landmarks such as the Esplanade of the Amazons and the Route des Pêches. The hotel’s prime location, just five minutes from Cotonou International Airport, makes it ideal for business travelers and tourists alike.

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The government of Benin has launched the national tourism identity, “Benin: A World of Wonders,” to attract more international visitors. This initiative aims to highlight the country’s natural beauty and cultural significance. Sofitel’s new hotel is set to play a key role in supporting this vision, offering world-class amenities and services that cater to both domestic and international guests.

The Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa features 198 luxurious rooms, including 14 suites and five duplex suites with private pools. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and city, along with top-tier facilities such as five dining venues, a 1,000-square-meter spa, and a state-of-the-art convention center.

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Dining options include Vivo, which serves Levantine cuisine, and Corniche, a Mediterranean restaurant and pool bar. For a more refined experience, L’ami offers French-inspired dishes with a Beninese twist, prepared by Michelin-starred chef Georgiana Viou. The hotel’s Pavillon also boasts two cinemas and a casino, adding to the entertainment options for guests.

Business travelers can take advantage of the hotel’s large convention center, featuring nine meeting rooms, including the newly renovated Dôme, Cotonou’s only international conference center, which can host up to 700 guests.

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With the opening of this flagship hotel, Sofitel not only strengthens its luxury brand presence in Africa but also supports Benin’s growing role as a cultural and economic hub in West Africa. The hotel will also contribute to the local economy by recruiting 90% of its staff from Benin, reflecting the brand’s commitment to supporting the local community.

Juliette Peron, General Manager of Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa, noted: “Together with our institutional partners, we have been able to recruit 90% of our talent from Benin. The quality and attention to detail that we have developed will make this hotel a unique location that will contribute to strengthening the brand internationally and promoting Benin as a prime destination.”


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.


ITC Hotels Signs 145-Key Welcomhotel Property in Salasar, Rajasthan

ITC Hotels Signs 145-Key Welcomhotel Property in Salasar, Rajasthan

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 5, 2026

ITC Hotels Limited has signed a management agreement for Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels Salasar, a 145-key property that will be developed in Salasar, Rajasthan. The upcoming hotel is expected to cater to the growing demand for pilgrimage tourism, destination weddings, social events, and leisure travel in one of the state's most visited spiritual destinations.

Spread across six acres, the hotel will further strengthen ITC Hotels' presence in Rajasthan, a key tourism market known for its rich heritage, culture, and religious destinations.

Commenting on the signing, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, "Rajasthan remains one of India's most loved tourism destinations, drawing visitors through its unique blend of heritage charm, culture, spirituality, and festivity. Salasar occupies a special place within this landscape, attracting visitors from across the globe. With Welcomhotel Salasar, we shall further strengthen ITCHL presence, across various brands in Rajasthan."

Representing the ownership group, Anoop Manglunia and Bajrang Lal Batesar, Directors, Envato Retreats Private Limited, said, "Welcomhotel Salasar is well-suited to the evolving needs of this sacred destination. ITC Hotels’ remarkable service excellence and emphasis on responsible hospitality give us the perfect foundation to elevate the pilgrim experience. We are pleased to associate with a brand that values both comfort and tradition."

Located near the renowned Salasar Balaji Temple, the destination attracts pilgrims from across India and abroad throughout the year. It has also become a preferred location for family functions and social celebrations, creating a growing demand for quality branded accommodation.

The hotel will feature 145 guest rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, a lounge, and around 12,000 sq. ft. of indoor banqueting and event space. Guests will also have access to a swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, and a dedicated kids' club.

Designed with traditional Rajasthani architectural elements such as courtyards, arches, jaalis, and regional motifs, the property aims to offer an authentic hospitality experience inspired by the state's cultural heritage.

The signing is part of ITC Hotels' ongoing strategy to expand its portfolio through management agreements while strengthening its presence in culturally significant and high-growth destinations across India.


ITC Hotels Opens 63-Key Fortune Lakeview Bhimtal in Uttarakhand

ITC Hotels Opens 63-Key Fortune Lakeview Bhimtal in Uttarakhand

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 4, 2026

ITC Hotels Limited (ITCHL) has announced the opening of Fortune Lakeview Bhimtal, a 63-key lakeside hotel overlooking the scenic Bhimtal Lake in Uttarakhand. The launch marks the company's 12th property in the state, further strengthening its presence in one of India's growing leisure destinations.

Surrounded by the Himalayan hills, the hotel features thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, with many offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. It also serves as a convenient base for travellers looking to explore the Kumaon region, with easy access to Nainital, Sattal, Naukuchiatal, and Kainchi Dham.

Commenting on the launch, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, "Uttarakhand holds a special place in our portfolio, and the opening of our 12th hotel in the region speaks of our confidence in its growing appeal among travellers seeking meaningful experiences. Fortune Lakeview Bhimtal marks a happy milestone in our expansion journey around India’s high-growth and emerging leisure markets."

The hotel also caters to business and social events with banqueting and conferencing facilities that can accommodate up to 200 guests. A dedicated boardroom is available for meetings, presentations, and strategy sessions, while the lakeside setting provides an attractive venue for corporate off-sites, leadership retreats, intimate weddings, and social celebrations.

Guests can enjoy a range of wellness and recreational facilities, including an all-weather swimming pool, a fully equipped gymnasium, and a spa that is set to open soon.

The dining options include Zodiac, the hotel's all-day dining restaurant serving local Kumaoni dishes alongside international favourites, and Neptune Bar, offering a selection of wines, spirits, and brews. A rooftop restaurant, Nakshatra, is also expected to open soon, featuring open-air dining with panoramic lake views.

Beyond the hotel, visitors can experience a variety of outdoor activities such as boating and kayaking on Bhimtal Lake, nature walks through pine and oak forests, trekking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and photography. Nearby destinations including Naukuchiatal, Sattal, and Mukteshwar also offer adventure experiences such as paragliding, ziplining, rock climbing, camping, and wildlife spotting.

Hemant Dwivedi, Owner of Fortune Lakeview Bhimtal, said, "The opening of Fortune Lakeview Bhimtal marks an exciting milestone for us. As one of Uttarakhand’s most sought-after leisure destinations, Bhimtal appeals to discerning travellers seeking immersive experiences amidst nature. Together with ITC Hotels, we are committed to creating a distinctive hospitality offering that blends the destination’s charm with world-class service. Fortune Lakeview Bhimtal aims to contribute to Bhimtal’s tourism growth, generate meaningful employment, and emerge as a preferred choice for leisure stays, weddings and corporate retreats."

With this opening, ITCHL's portfolio in Uttarakhand now includes properties in Mussoorie, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Haldwani, Ranikhet, Jim Corbett, Nainital, and Bhimtal, with upcoming hotels planned in Selaqui and Mukteshwar.

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