The Machan Resorts LLP: Milestones in 2024 and an Ambitious Vision for 2025

The Machan Resorts LLP: Milestones in 2024 and an Ambitious Vision for 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 7, 2024

The Machan Resorts LLP has set a benchmark in sustainable tourism, reflecting on a truly transformative 2024. According to Rakshit Sharma, COO, the year marked remarkable achievements, from brand expansions to property signings, further solidifying the group's commitment to eco-conscious luxury and regenerative tourism.

New Brands: Myst and Moments by The Machan

In 2024, The Machan introduced Myst and Moments by The Machan, two distinct brands that align with their ethos of sustainable luxury. Myst focuses on bespoke retreats, offering unmatched exclusivity and curated experiences for travelers seeking unparalleled getaways. Meanwhile, Moments by The Machan extends their signature eco-conscious philosophy to charming boutique properties, making responsible travel more accessible to conscious travelers.

Expanding Horizons: Five New Properties

The group’s expansion plans took a significant leap with the signing of five new properties in some of India’s most picturesque locations:

  • Mulshi, Pawna, and Karjat in Maharashtra
  • Jawai, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur in Rajasthan

These additions showcase The Machan’s dedication to bringing its eco-luxury experiences to some of the country’s most stunning and culturally rich destinations.

Global Accolades and Recognition

The year also saw The Machan garner international recognition. They were listed among the Top 5 Luxury Resorts for Biodiversity by Guardians of the Earth, underlining their efforts in preserving natural ecosystems. Additionally, they received the Leading Iconic Resort Group award from The Times Group, a testament to their innovative and sustainable approach to hospitality.

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Vision for 2025: Doubling the Footprint

Looking ahead, The Machan is determined to double its presence in 2025, with a focus on expanding into Tier I, Tier II, and Tier III cities. By bringing its eco-conscious luxury to broader audiences, the group aims to set new benchmarks in sustainable tourism while uplifting local communities and safeguarding natural habitats.

Rakshit Sharma reflects, “Our vision for 2025 is bold yet grounded in our core values. We aim to make sustainable tourism more inclusive and impactful, ensuring that our growth contributes to the well-being of the planet and its people.”

A Heartfelt Gratitude

As the group prepares for the new year, Sharma extends gratitude to guests, partners, and team members. "May 2025 bring happiness, peace, and prosperity. Together, let us create a future that is not only prosperous but also kinder to our planet," he adds.

The Machan Resorts LLP continues to lead the way in combining luxury with sustainability, creating a blueprint for hospitality that prioritizes the environment and enriches the travel experience.


Marriott to Bring Westin to Ludhiana with Vardhman Amrante

Marriott to Bring Westin to Ludhiana with Vardhman Amrante

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 7, 2025

Marriott International has signed an agreement with Vardhman Amrante, an Oswal Group venture, to bring its premium wellness-focused Westin brand to Ludhiana. The Westin Ludhiana is slated to open in the last quarter of 2030, marking the brand’s debut in Punjab’s industrial and cultural hub.

Planned as part of a vibrant mixed-use development, the new hotel will feature 200 keys alongside retail outlets, a multiplex, and a gaming zone, adding fresh energy to Ludhiana’s growing urban landscape.

Highlighting Marriott’s strategic expansion into high-growth markets, Ranju Alex, regional vice president – South Asia, Marriott International, shared, “Through this collaboration, we aim to redefine guest service while unlocking Ludhiana’s potential. The Westin Ludhiana will empower guests to be the best version of themselves, maintaining their well-being even as they travel.”

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Echoing the excitement, Adish Oswal, chairman of Oswal Group, said, “We’re thrilled to partner with Marriott International to bring the acclaimed Westin brand to Ludhiana. This development is set to become a landmark, offering a wellness-driven luxury experience that matches the city’s growing stature as a regional powerhouse.”

The Westin Ludhiana promises a robust mix of experiences — from multiple dining venues and a chic Lobby Bar to the WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio, Heavenly Spa by Westin, and an outdoor pool. Business and leisure travellers alike will benefit from the expansive banqueting spaces, lush outdoor lawns, and an exclusive Executive Club Lounge.

With its focus on holistic wellness, the upcoming hotel underscores Marriott’s continued commitment to cater to evolving traveller needs and further strengthen its footprint across India.


Hyatt Hotels to Sell Playa’s Real Estate Portfolio for $2 Billion

Hyatt Hotels to Sell Playa’s Real Estate Portfolio for $2 Billion

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 5, 2025

Hyatt Hotels is doubling down on its asset-light strategy with a major move—selling Playa Hotels’ real estate portfolio to Tortuga Resorts for $2 billion. This follows Hyatt’s acquisition of Playa in February for $2.6 billion, including debt. Playa operates 24 luxury all-inclusive resorts across Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic.

The sale covers 15 of Playa’s resort assets, effectively reducing Hyatt’s net purchase price for the remaining Playa business to around $555 million. The deal, still pending regulatory nods in Mexico, is expected to close before the end of 2025.

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As part of the arrangement, Hyatt and Tortuga will enter into 50-year agreements for these properties, allowing Hyatt to continue managing the resorts. Thirteen of the resorts will operate under Hyatt’s standard management fee structures, with two under separate agreements.

Hyatt CEO Mark Hoplamazian called the move transformational, noting it turns the Playa acquisition into a fully asset-light transaction. "It also ramps up our fee-based earnings," he added. Hyatt now anticipates its asset-light earnings mix could hit at least 90% by 2027.

Analysts view the swift real estate divestment positively, seeing it as a smart way for Hyatt to stay nimble while bolstering returns. Proceeds from this deal will primarily go toward repaying loans taken to finance the Playa buyout.


Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach Earns Green Key Certification

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach Earns Green Key Certification

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 5, 2025

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, a flagship Accor property, has proudly announced that it has been awarded the Green Key Certification, a globally recognised eco-label that underscores excellence in sustainable tourism and hospitality.

Granted by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE)—one of the world’s leading environmental education organisations and recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)—the certification marks a significant milestone in the hotel’s ongoing efforts to integrate eco-friendly practices without compromising guest comfort or luxury.

Lakshmi Sridhar, General Manager, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, said, “At Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, we believe that sustainability is not just a responsibility, but a way of life. Being Green Key certified reinforces our commitment to offering eco-conscious experiences that align with global environmental standards.”

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The hotel has rolled out various impactful initiatives, from using clean, renewable energy and implementing robust waste management practices to driving water conservation, enhancing energy efficiency, and sustainably sourcing products. These measures are designed to benefit not only the environment but also the local community.

As travel trends increasingly lean towards conscious luxury and responsible tourism, this certification positions Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach as a leader in sustainable hospitality in India.

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