St. Regis Opens Its 60th Property in Shanghai's Iconic Bund

St. Regis Opens Its 60th Property in Shanghai's Iconic Bund

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 25, 2024

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts has officially opened its 60th property, The St. Regis on the Bund, Shanghai, marking a significant milestone for the luxury hotel brand. Situated in the iconic Bund area, the new hotel seamlessly blends the timeless glamor of St. Regis with Shanghai’s vibrant cultural heritage. This new addition, owned by Pacific Eagle Real Estate, is the second St. Regis property in Shanghai and underscores the brand’s ongoing global expansion.

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Jenni Benzaquen, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts, remarked, “The opening of The St. Regis on the Bund, Shanghai marks a pivotal moment in the brand’s expansion, as we celebrate the debut of our 60th property globally. As one of the world’s most iconic luxury brands, St. Regis continues to set the standard for exceptional service and timeless elegance at the best addresses worldwide. With this milestone, we continue to offer our discerning guests unparalleled experiences on the Bund, blending the rich cultural heritage of Shanghai with the signature rituals and bespoke service that define St. Regis.”

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The St. Regis on the Bund offers guests stunning views of the Huangpu River and the Pudong skyline. Its location in one of Shanghai’s most historic districts provides easy access to landmarks such as Yu Garden, the Oriental Pearl Tower, and the Shanghai Museum. With proximity to The Bund Finance Center and convenient access to both Shanghai Hongqiao and Pudong International Airports, the hotel is ideally situated for both business and leisure travelers.

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The hotel's design draws inspiration from Shanghai’s rich cultural identity. Renowned architects Norman Foster and Heatherwick Studio collaborated on the hotel’s exterior, while the interior features a blend of Art Deco opulence, Su embroidery, and magnolia motifs. The hotel also showcases original artworks by renowned artists, including Legend of Shanghai by Ma Tianyu and Splendid Orient by Shi Qi.

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The St. Regis on the Bund, Shanghai features 192 guest rooms, including 13 suites, each offering sweeping views of the Huangpu River. The rooms are designed to provide a residential feel, with thoughtful touches that reflect the local culture. Guests can also enjoy the renowned St. Regis Butler Service, which offers personalized and anticipatory attention to meet every need.

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Dining at The St. Regis on the Bund is an exceptional experience. The hotel’s Chinese restaurant, Celestial Court, serves a fusion of Huaiyang cuisine, perfect for high-end gatherings. The St. Regis Brasserie offers a lively all-day dining experience, featuring a mix of local and international flavors. At The St. Regis Bar, guests can enjoy curated cocktails, including the hotel’s unique version of the signature St. Regis Bloody Mary. Known as The Bund Snapper, this cocktail blends Shanghai’s five spices with traditional rice wine vinegar for a taste that reflects the essence of the city.

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Guests looking to relax can unwind at The St. Regis Spa, which offers modern skincare treatments and ancient wellness practices in luxurious private spaces. The hotel also features a 24-hour fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment.

For events, The St. Regis on the Bund offers nearly 1,100 square meters of space, including the grand 720-square-meter Astor Ballroom and three function rooms. These spaces cater to a range of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations.

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Bart Buiring, Managing Director of Luxury, Greater China at Marriott International, said, “We are thrilled to continue the storied legacy of St. Regis with the debut of The St. Regis on the Bund, Shanghai, the thirteenth address in our expanding portfolio of St. Regis hotels in Greater China. The Bund is a blend of Shanghai’s rich history and dynamic modernization, where the cluster of historical buildings juxtaposes the modern skyline of Pudong. From this iconic location, the hotel sets to embody the timeless elegance and impeccable service inspired by the Astor family, offering an unparalleled experience to both our loyal guests and the next generation of luxury travelers.”

For more information, visit The St. Regis on the Bund.


WGH Hotels & Resorts Unveils Kochi Flagship to Kerala Industries Minister

WGH Hotels & Resorts Unveils Kochi Flagship to Kerala Industries Minister

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 31, 2025

WGH Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., the hospitality wing of the diversified World Group, recently hosted Hon. Minister for Industries, Government of Kerala, P. Rajeev at the site of its upcoming flagship project in Kochi. The high-profile visit underlines the significance of this luxury development, which was also featured at the Kerala Global Investment Meet, reinforcing the state's push for sustainable and experiential tourism.

With a legacy that began in 2012 through the acquisition of World Backwaters Alleppey, WGH now boasts a strong presence in Kerala with operating properties in Alleppey, Munnar, and Thekkady. The group is now expanding ambitiously with new developments in Kochi, Varkala, Trivandrum, and Ashtamudi, including a signature wellness resort—all designed to meet international standards while staying true to Kerala’s heritage.

During the ministerial visit, WGH presented the master plan and design vision for its Kochi project, set for launch on January 1, 2028. The development aims to redefine luxury tourism in Kerala by fusing modern architecture with authentic, culturally immersive experiences.

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Mr. J. Jayakrishnan, Director of World Group and WGH Hotels & Resorts, thanked the government for its proactive support, stating:

“Kerala’s infrastructure development and progressive tourism policies are perfectly aligned with our vision. Our projects aim to promote responsible and sustainable tourism while gifting guests an immersive experience of Kerala’s unique lifestyle and traditions.”

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The World Group, with nearly four decades of business leadership across mining, logistics, agriculture, DRI, and consulting, has already invested INR 250 crores in Kerala's hospitality sector over the past two years. An additional INR 500 crores has been earmarked for future ventures—including the flagship resorts, a hospitality college in Kochi, and a chain of vegetarian restaurants throughout the state.

The proposed hospitality college is envisioned to train 200 professionals annually, building a strong local talent pool to meet global industry standards. Meanwhile, the Varkala and Ashtamudi resorts are scheduled to open by 2027, further anchoring WGH’s role in shaping Kerala’s tourism future.

WGH Hotels & Resorts remains deeply committed to supporting Kerala's growth as a world-class tourism hub, guided by principles of sustainability, cultural authenticity, and community development.


Clarks Exotica Champions Purpose-Driven Culture at Work

Clarks Exotica Champions Purpose-Driven Culture at Work

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 30, 2025

In the world of luxury hospitality, where lavish experiences often steal the spotlight, Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa stands out by leading with a deeper mission — purpose. For Clarks, hospitality is not just about the scenic views and impeccable service; it’s about building a culture rooted in values, unity, and community responsibility.

At the core of Clarks' success is a people-first philosophy — a belief that genuine service begins with a strong, supported team. Under the leadership of Nilisha Ghuliani, Vice President, the resort has cultivated a workplace that feels less like a job and more like a purpose-driven family.

Honouring National Pride: #OperationSindoor

One of Clarks’ standout initiatives this year was #OperationSindoor, a heartfelt tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. Employees dressed in red and pink — symbols of strength, unity, and gratitude — and came together to honour those who serve the nation.

This was more than just a ceremony. It was a collective expression of patriotism, creating a sense of purpose and solidarity among team members. “At Clarks, patriotism is not a moment — it’s a mindset,” shares Nilisha Ghuliani.

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Nurturing the Earth: Earth Day Tree Planting

Sustainability isn’t just a policy at Clarks — it’s a practice. On Earth Day, employees participated in a tree-planting initiative at the Clubhouse Lawn, reflecting the resort’s long-standing commitment to the environment.

From water conservation to green operations, Clarks has consistently invested in planet-positive action, ensuring that everyday efforts contribute to long-term impact.

Empowering People: Culture of Care

Employee wellbeing and growth are central to the Clarks ethos. Through training programs, internal recognition, and continuous engagement, the resort empowers its team to lead, grow, and evolve. Whether it's supporting career advancement or celebrating small wins, Clarks ensures that its people feel seen, heard, and valued.

"Every initiative — whether for the nation, the environment, or our people — is designed to deepen connection and build meaning," Nilisha explains.

Clarks Exotica is proving that a great workplace isn't just built with policies — it's built with heart. Here, service excellence begins within, and each action is a step toward a more unified, compassionate, and conscious world.


Cocoon at The Machan Lonavala: A Luxurious Monsoon Escape in the Sky

Cocoon at The Machan Lonavala: A Luxurious Monsoon Escape in the Sky

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 30, 2025

Elevate your monsoon experience at The Machan Lonavala with The Cocoon, a stunning 2,500+ sq. ft. villa nestled high among the treetops. Crafted as a dome-shaped sanctuary, this is the brand's most luxurious and architecturally distinct offering — designed for those who seek the perfect blend of indulgence and nature.

Timed perfectly for the rains, The Cocoon immerses guests in forest serenity with panoramic views from a soaring foot ceiling and a sprawling private deck. Whether you’re enjoying the misty monsoon air or stargazing at night, the elevated setting delivers tranquility at every turn.

The villa offers four unique sleeping zones: a cozy loft, a main-level space, and two suspended bedrooms on the lower floor. From elegant copper bathtubs to an open-to-sky His & Hers shower, and a modern multi-tiered bath, the bathing options alone are an experience in themselves.

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Step onto the private deck to discover a heated plunge pool, sunken seating, and an alfresco dining spot — all overlooking the lush, green canopy of Lonavala.

Sustainability lies at the heart of The Cocoon. Powered entirely by solar energy and constructed using eco-sensitive materials, this retreat reflects The Machan’s commitment to luxurious yet conscious living.

Perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations, or friends' reunions, The Cocoon is more than just a villa — it’s a retreat where skies meet serenity.

Bookings are now open on www.themachan.com.

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