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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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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By Hariharan U
Published on October 25, 2026
Summit Hotels & Resorts is set to expand its Signature Collection with a 17-villa retreat in Lachung, North Sikkim, scheduled to open in December 2026. The upcoming property will strengthen the company's premium hospitality portfolio in the Eastern Himalayas, with an emphasis on local architecture, cultural experiences and the region's natural landscape.
Located at an altitude of approximately 8,600 feet, Lachung is around 118 km from Gangtok and serves as a gateway to destinations including Yumthang Valley, Zero Point and Katao. The retreat will feature 17 villas inspired by traditional Sikkimese architecture, reflecting the area's cultural character and mountain setting.
Beyond accommodation, the property is expected to offer experiences that encourage guests to explore North Sikkim beyond conventional sightseeing. Planned activities include guided village walks, opportunities to discover Bhutia traditions and cuisine, visits to nearby orchards and monasteries, and excursions to alpine valleys. Seasonal experiences such as rhododendron viewing, winter snow excursions and stargazing are also being considered, subject to local conditions.
Commenting on the development, Sumit Mitruka, CEO, Summit Hotels & Resorts, said, “North Sikkim has considerable potential to develop beyond conventional sightseeing-led tourism. Lachung is already an important stop on the Yumthang and Zero Point circuit, but we believe there is an opportunity to encourage travellers to spend more time in the destination itself. With this retreat, we want to introduce a premium stay experience that draws on the region's architecture, culture and natural surroundings. We also see opportunities to work with local communities through employment, sourcing and destination experiences as tourism develops.”
The project comes amid renewed tourism interest in North Sikkim, supported by improved accessibility along the Lachung–Yumthang–Zero Point circuit. Known for its Himalayan scenery, rhododendron forests and traditional Bhutia settlements, Lachung offers opportunities to develop longer, nature-focused stays alongside established sightseeing itineraries.
The retreat will join Summit's Signature Collection, which includes Summit Norbu Ghang in Gangtok and Summit Rungkhung Village Resort in Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh. The collection forms part of the company's wider strategy to develop premium, destination-focused hospitality across the Eastern Himalayas and other leisure markets in India.
With the Lachung project, Summit is looking to combine premium accommodation with local culture and nature-based experiences, while creating opportunities for community participation as tourism in North Sikkim evolves
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on October 22, 2026
Looking for a peaceful escape this Dussehra? Cintacor Island Resort in Karwar, Karnataka, offers a private island getaway where guests can enjoy the beach, explore the sea and unwind amid nature. Spread across a 33-acre private island along Karnataka's lesser-explored coastline, the resort offers an alternative to crowded holiday destinations for the festive long weekend from 20–22 October 2026.
Surrounded by the Arabian Sea, the resort brings together relaxation, outdoor activities and scenic coastal views. Guests can spend their days at the private beach, enjoy the swimming pool or explore the island's NatureLab, making it a refreshing choice for travellers looking to slow down and enjoy a few days away from their usual routine.
For those who want more than a relaxed beach holiday, Cintacor Island offers several experiences on land and at sea. Guests can try kayaking and fishing or head out on dolphin cruises to explore the surrounding waters. Those looking to unwind can visit the private Kurmasana Spa, which offers a peaceful setting to relax during their stay.
One of the island's highlights is Nemo's Deck, located at its highest point. Offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, it provides a beautiful spot to watch the sunset. As the day winds down, guests can head to Jolly Rogers for a leisurely meal while enjoying the island's relaxed atmosphere.
With its private beach, sea-facing experiences and natural surroundings, Cintacor Island Resort offers a different way to celebrate the Dussehra long weekend. Whether travellers are looking for a quiet break, a little adventure or simply time by the sea, the island provides an opportunity to step away from busy holiday destinations and enjoy a coastal retreat.
For those planning a festive getaway, Cintacor Island Resort, Karwar, presents an inviting option to spend the long weekend surrounded by nature, with the Arabian Sea setting the scene for a memorable holiday.
Published on October 20, 2026
Sayaji Raipur is bringing the festive season to the table with two special dining experiences this October, combining a Dussehra celebration at Cravings with a themed Halloween evening at its rooftop destination, Horizon.
Designed around food, festivities and social gatherings, the hotel's October calendar offers guests opportunities to celebrate traditional occasions and enjoy a contemporary seasonal experience with family and friends.
On October 20, 2026, Cravings at Sayaji Raipur will mark Dussehra with a special festive dining experience featuring traditional flavours and a celebratory atmosphere.
Guests can avail themselves of a 2+1 offer during lunch, providing an opportunity for families and groups to gather over a festive meal.
The celebrations will continue on October 31, 2026, with a themed Halloween Night at Horizon, Sayaji Raipur's rooftop destination.
The evening will feature Halloween-inspired food and drinks, themed décor and an entertaining ambience, bringing a seasonal twist to the rooftop dining experience.
Guests can also enjoy 15% off the à la carte menu, while drinks will be available at MRP.
Together, the two events reflect Sayaji Raipur's approach to seasonal dining, bringing traditional festivities and contemporary themed celebrations into its October programme.
Dussehra at Cravings
Date: October 20, 2026
Offer: 2+1 during lunch
Halloween Night at Horizon
Date: October 31, 2026
Offer: 15% off the à la carte menu
Drinks: Available at MRP
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