Wyndham and Lafayette Square Collaborate to Enhance Financing Opportunities for Diverse Hoteliers

Wyndham and Lafayette Square Collaborate to Enhance Financing Opportunities for Diverse Hoteliers

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on November 16, 2024

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has announced a new partnership with investment firm Lafayette Square to help diverse hotel owners access capital. Through this collaboration, Wyndham will work closely with Lafayette Square to connect qualified franchisees with up to $100 million in financing over the coming years. This initiative is designed to assist hoteliers with projects that would otherwise be delayed or stalled due to the lack of traditional financing options.

The partnership is a key aspect of Wyndham’s ongoing efforts to support the Black and women hotel ownership communities through its BOLD (Black Owners and Lodging Developers) and Women Own the Room programs. These initiatives aim to break down barriers faced by diverse hotel owners, providing both financial assistance and additional resources to help foster success in the hospitality industry.

According to Galen Barrett, Vice President of Strategic Franchise Initiatives at Wyndham, there are still significant inequities in the hospitality sector, especially when it comes to financing. He believes that partnerships like the one with Lafayette Square can help address these issues by providing deserving hoteliers with the tools and resources they need to succeed. "We’re committed to using our network to not only give the keys to hotel ownership to more diverse owners, but ultimately help give them the access to tools, resources, and partners they need to succeed," said Barrett.

Lafayette Square’s strategy is focused on addressing the financing gaps that often limit opportunities for diverse hotel owners. The firm’s Managing Director, Abhay Patel, emphasized the importance of intervention to support entrepreneurs who have historically struggled to secure financing. "Tapping into Wyndham’s network brings us and our resources to the epicenter of hospitality, helping make hotel ownership more attainable for qualified hoteliers," Patel noted.

The partnership has already led to its first success story with Dr. Amina James, a member of Wyndham’s BOLD program and an experienced hotelier. Despite her background in real estate and her experience owning a hotel in Memphis, Dr. James faced financing challenges when seeking to expand into Lake Charles, Louisiana. Wyndham introduced her to Lafayette Square, which provided the necessary funding to acquire her second hotel, now operating as Wyndham Lake Charles. Dr. James plans to use the funds to improve the property and streamline operations through a third-party management team.

"I can now say I own two hotels. BOLD and Women Own the Room are actively changing hospitality by forging the path – and knocking down the barriers along the way – to make hotel ownership possible," said Dr. James, expressing gratitude for the opportunity provided by Wyndham and Lafayette Square.

This collaboration is part of Wyndham’s broader commitment to ensuring more diverse hotel ownership and supporting initiatives that increase representation in the industry. The firm’s BOLD and Women Own the Room programs have already facilitated over 100 hotel deals with Black and women hoteliers, with more than 20 of these properties now operational.

The new financing program aims to build on this momentum, helping more diverse entrepreneurs access the capital needed to grow and succeed in the competitive hotel industry. The partnership between Wyndham and Lafayette Square reflects a shared commitment to creating greater opportunities for historically underrepresented groups in hospitality.


Manglam Group & The Fern Hotels to Develop 200+ Key Serviced Apart'otel in Jaipur

Manglam Group & The Fern Hotels to Develop 200+ Key Serviced Apart'otel in Jaipur

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 10, 2025

Manglam Group, one of Rajasthan’s most trusted and diversified real estate companies, has announced a strategic partnership with The Fern Hotels & Resorts to launch a 200+ key serviced apart'otel in Jaipur under the Fern Habitat brand. This project will rise within Pinkwalk, Manglam Group’s landmark integrated development in Jagatpura.

The collaboration combines Manglam Group’s deep-rooted expertise in large-scale developments with Fern’s experience in managing serviced apart'hotels across India. Designed for both short and extended stays, The Fern Habitat Pinkwalk will feature elegantly appointed units with private living spaces, kitchenettes, daily housekeeping, and on-site dining—offering guests the perfect blend of apartment-style living and hotel convenience. The project also underscores both brands’ shared commitment to sustainable, guest-centric hospitality.

Pinkwalk, sprawling over 21,000 sq. yd., is a vibrant mixed-use destination that houses over 950 commercial and studio spaces, alongside amenities like a food court, clubhouse, multiplex, gaming zones, and relaxing open sit-outs. Strategically situated on Mahal Road, it ensures seamless connectivity to educational hubs, hospitals, and Jaipur International Airport, positioning it as an attractive address for both business and leisure travellers.

Speaking about this partnership, Ms. Amrita Gupta, Director, Manglam Group, said, “We are pleased to collaborate with The Fern Hotels & Resorts — a respected and future-focused hospitality brand that resonates with our values. This signing marks a significant step in Manglam Hospitality’s journey to create thoughtfully designed, sustainable spaces that offer authentic experiences. With The Fern Habitat at Pinkwalk, we aim to extend that legacy by offering a refined, inclusive, and eco-conscious stay that reflects the evolving aspirations of today’s traveller.”

This tie-up with Fern follows Manglam’s earlier partnership with Westin, forming part of its ₹1,000 crore plan to expand into hospitality. The Group aims to develop five premium hospitality properties across Rajasthan and Goa, targeting high-growth segments like leisure and corporate travel, all underpinned by cultural authenticity, service excellence, and sustainable practices.

Founded by Mr. Nand Kishore Gupta in 2008, Manglam Group has delivered nearly 23,000 units across residential, township, and commercial projects, spanning over 421 lakh sq. ft. by March 2023. Its portfolio includes hospitality and entertainment ventures such as Manglam Resort, Saville Hospital, and Fun Kingdom amusement park, further reflecting its diversified vision.

For more information, visit: https://www.manglamgroup.com


Banyan Tree Krabi Launches Jurassic Explorer Package as Krabi Shines in Jurassic World Rebirth

Banyan Tree Krabi Launches Jurassic Explorer Package as Krabi Shines in Jurassic World Rebirth

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 10, 2025

Banyan Tree Krabi is inviting guests to step into a world where the pristine meets the prehistoric with the launch of its Jurassic Explorer package. This unique offering celebrates Krabi’s stunning natural landscapes being featured in the recently released blockbuster, Jurassic World Rebirth, which debuted worldwide on July 2, 2025.

Hollywood producers chose Krabi over other exotic locations like the Dominican Republic and Mauritius, captivated by its dramatic limestone cliffs and lush scenery—formations that date back 90 million years. “It didn’t surprise us at all that the film’s producers would call on Krabi as the setting for a dinosaur habitat,” shared Haruethai Maneerat, General Manager of Banyan Tree Krabi. “We are blessed with a beachfront view directly facing spectacular uninhabited islands, part of a marine national park, which always amazes our guests.

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To mark the occasion, Banyan Tree Krabi’s Jurassic Explorer package offers an immersive experience that includes:

  • A themed welcome drink and snack inspired by Jurassic World Rebirth

  • A half-day marine excursion by longtail boat to Hong Island and nearby spots

  • A guided 3-hour tour to Klong Root (Clear Water Canal), a key filming site

  • A special guidebook to locations where the movie was shot

  • A 60-minute massage at Banyan Tree Spa Krabi

  • Exclusive rates for tickets to the Jurassic World Experience at Asiatique The Riverfront in Bangkok

Guests can also opt to explore independently, with the resort’s guidebook mapping out breathtaking filming sites like Phra Nang Cave Beach and Huay To Waterfall, each offering a slice of cinematic magic.

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Taking inspiration from the film’s star, Scarlett Johansson—who recently revealed her love for Thailand’s spicy laab gai—the resort’s culinary team has crafted the “Jurassic Laab – A Star’s Wild Bite,” featuring a zingy take on the classic dish with minced chicken or beef. Other playful additions include the “Fossil Egg,” a crispy sausage-wrapped delight, and signature cocktails like “The Raptor Forest” and “T-Rex Rampage” at Kredkaew Bar.

Guests can unwind after their adventures with the “Rebirth in Tranquility” treatment at Banyan Tree Spa Krabi, combining a soothing full body massage and rejuvenating bath.

Available until December 21, 2025, with a minimum three-night stay, the Jurassic Explorer package is an invitation to experience Krabi’s ancient wonders in luxury.

The Resort:

Nestled on Tubkaek Beach, Banyan Tree Krabi features 72 pool suites and villas overlooking the Andaman Sea, with facilities including award-winning restaurants, a kids’ club, fitness centre, beach club, and Banyan Tree Spa.

For bookings, visit: https://www.banyantree.com/thailand/krabi/offers/jurassic-explorer.


Wyndham to Open Second Hotel in Bareilly, Boosting City’s Hospitality Growth

Wyndham to Open Second Hotel in Bareilly, Boosting City’s Hospitality Growth

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 9, 2025

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of its second property in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, marking another step in strengthening the city’s hospitality landscape. Partnering with local developer M/s Ankit Agarwal, the group will bring a new Ramada by Wyndham hotel to Bareilly, designed as a greenfield project.

The upcoming hotel will feature 80 contemporary guest rooms and is tailored to serve both business and leisure travellers. Guests can look forward to a host of amenities, including all-day dining options, a fitness centre, meeting spaces, and dedicated areas for leisure and corporate events.

This marks Wyndham’s second foray into the Bareilly market, following the success of Ramada Encore by Wyndham in Civil Lines. The addition highlights Bareilly’s growing importance as a key Tier-II destination in Uttar Pradesh, amid increasing demand for internationally branded hospitality experiences.

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Speaking on the development, Ankit Agarwal, owner and developer, said, “We are proud to bring the Ramada brand to Bareilly in partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. This hotel will be a valuable addition to the city’s evolving infrastructure and provide world-class services to both domestic and international travellers. We believe this collaboration will enhance Bareilly’s profile as a modern hospitality hub.”

Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director, Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, added, “We are pleased to collaborate once again with a trusted partner like Mr. Agarwal. Bareilly continues to show strong potential for hospitality growth and this project aligns with our vision to expand into India’s high-growth and emerging regional markets.”

Construction of the new hotel is expected to begin shortly, with the property slated to open its doors in 2028.

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