Mandarin Oriental to manage luxury palace hotel in Abu Dhabi

Mandarin Oriental has announced that it has signed a management contract to manage, and ultimately brand, the iconic Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The Group will take over management of the property from 1 January 2020. It will be Mandarin Oriental’s second hotel in the United Arab Emirates following the opening of Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai in early 2019. The hotel will be rebranded as a Mandarin Oriental property, following a phased renovation over two years, during which time the hotel will remain open. The work will encompass significant upgrades to guestrooms and recreational amenities, as well as new food and beverage facilities. The Emirates Palace hotel sits on a 1.3-kilometre private beachfront, featuring 394 guestrooms and suites, 12 restaurants and bars, 40 meeting rooms, a concert grade auditorium and a ballroom that can accommodate up to 2,500 people. Leisure facilities include a marina, two swimming pools, a spa and two fitness centres. “This is a unique opportunity to manage one of the most high-profile properties in the Middle East and will be an excellent addition to our portfolio in the region. We look forward to bringing the Group’s exemplary service standards to Abu Dhabi and to introducing the brand to a new audience,” said James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. “The partnership with Mandarin Oriental represents an important milestone and aims to propel the property’s profile into a new era,” said His Excellency Sultan Dhahi Sultan Al Humairi, Managing Director of Emirates Palace Company (EPCO). “We look forward to a mutually prosperous and fruitful relationship with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group,” he added. Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi is centrally located in the heart of the city, conveniently situated for both leisure and business travellers. The Grand Mosque and the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre are a short drive away. The Marina Mall is nearby and the commercial centre of the city is also easily accessed. The hotel is 40 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport and 90 minutes from Dubai Airport.

Margaritaville Hotel Nashville Opens Bringing 166 Guestrooms to the Heart of Music City’s SoBro District

Margaritaville Hotel Nashville, the newest addition to the Margaritaville portfolio, brings an entirely unique lodging concept to the destination with a “no worries” casual luxury atmosphere. Developed by Safe Harbor Development LLC and managed by Davidson Hotels & Resorts, the 12-story hotel features 166 guestrooms, as well as 52 Margaritaville Vacation Club® by Wyndham suites, and is centrally located a half block south of the Music City Center, near Broadway. Amenities include a rooftop relaxation and entertainment area with an outdoor pool, sundeck, fire pits and live entertainment; a 24-hour fitness center; and two first-ever Margaritaville dining concepts – FINS Bar and JWB Grill. “We’re thrilled to offer a one-of-a-kind experience where guests can revel in the excitement of Nashville while simultaneously enjoying the Margaritaville state of mind,” said Jeff Webb, general manager of Margaritaville Hotel Nashville. “It’s a wonderful feeling to be able to welcome guests to the first urban destination Margaritaville hotel.” Situated in Nashville’s bustling South of Broadway (SoBro) neighborhood, the hotel is steps away from the Country Music Hall of Fame, Bridgestone Arena, Music City Center, Honky Tonk Highway and more. Drawing from Nashville’s vibrant cultural and entertainment scene and inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of singer, songwriter and best-selling author Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville Hotel Nashville offers an elevated design with a laid-back metropolitan attitude. Crisp white bedding and teak finishing create a sense of escapism within each guest room, while playful colors and tasteful tropical decor add to the island setting among the restaurants and bars. In addition to FINS Bar, JWB Grill, and with music and entertainment at its core, the hotel also includes nearly 11,000 sq. ft square feet of indoor and outdoor customizable space, setting the stage for corporate group events, weddings and celebrations in downtown Nashville. The 52 vacation club suites offer owners plenty of space to kick back and relax, with mini kitchens and separate living and dining areas in the apartment-style suites. The property is now home to Radio Margaritaville’s Nashville studio, heard worldwide on SiriusXM Channel 24. Live broadcasts, special guests and a mix of Jimmy Buffett, island, rock, reggae and country will hit the airwaves from a new state-of-the-art studio in the lobby, bringing the sounds of the tropics to Nashville. SiriusXM subscribers are able to listen to Radio Margaritaville channel 24 on SiriusXM radios, and those with streaming access can listen online, on-the-go with the SiriusXM mobile app and at home on a wide variety of connected devices including smart TVs, devices with Amazon Alexa or the Google Assistant, Apple TV, PlayStation, Roku, Sonos speakers and more. Go to www.SiriusXM.com/streaming to learn more. “We are excited to partner with Margaritaville and Davidson Hotels & Resorts to introduce Margaritaville Hotel Nashville, destined to be a destination of its own in the thriving city of Nashville,” said Darby Campbell, owner and president of Safe Harbor Development LLC, and lead investor on the project. “We’re proud that this property manages to convey a vibrant yet laid back attitude and there are no better partners than Davidson and Margaritaville to bring this hotel to life.”

The Unbound Collection by Hyatt Brand Debuts in the United Kingdom With Opening of Great Scotland Yard

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the opening of the 152-room Great Scotland Yard hotel as part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt. On the site of the former headquarters of the Metropolitan Police, the luxury hotel and adjacent five-story townhouse is the first by The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand in the UK and the sixth to open in Europe. The opening follows a major restoration and full-scale renovation that breathed new life into one of London’s famous landmarks as it opens to the public for the first time in nearly two hundred years. As part of a collection of unique hotels each with their own distinct story, Great Scotland Yard is an iconic property steeped in history that asks guests to expect the unexpected. Once the historical home of law and order in the City of Westminster, the hotel has also served as inspiration for Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, has been a dwelling for Kings of Scotland, and is the site where Lord Kitchener famously told World War I recruits ‘Your Country Needs You.’ Every aspect of the hotel pays homage to this extraordinary past. Located steps away from Parliament and Covent Garden, guests are only a stone’s throw away from the cultural hotspots of one of the world’s most vibrant cities. “Great Scotland Yard’s rich history and fascinating architecture make it the perfect place to launch The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in the United Kingdom,” said Sholto Smith, general manager of Great Scotland Yard. “Along with critically acclaimed chef Robin Gill, we have created a modern British food and drink destination and an experience like no other in London. We look forward to welcoming independent minded travelers looking for a story-worthy experience.” Dining and drinking Paying tribute to the building’s rich past, Chef and Restaurateur Robin Gill has curated four one-of-a-kind food and drink spaces, bound together by a neighborhood restaurant atmosphere and charismatic service. “I’ve been involved in this project for a while now, which is a huge privilege and I am excited about my whole team being involved in the opening,” said Chef and Restaurateur, Robin Gill. “We want Great Scotland Yard to be a place that feels like coming home; a space of old-school charm with a sense of fun, but with a new-school form of service and great hospitality.” The main signature restaurant, The Yard, offers modern British cuisine with an open kitchen showcasing culinary craftsmanship. Produce from local, micro-farmers helps reduce the restaurant’s carbon footprint and allows guests to experience a slice of the countryside in the city. Cocktail bar The 40 Elephants celebrates off-beat London and pays homage to the Forty Elephants, a notorious all female crime syndicate, led by Alice Diamond operating in the 19th and 20th centuries. A modern tearoom, The Parlour, is inspired by The Imperial New Delhi hotel for its opulence and sense of tradition while embracing the quirkier side of the establishment. The Parlour offers a daytime space for morning coffees, light lunches, gin and tonics and afternoon teas. A second bar Sibín, inspired by the illicit bars that originated in Ireland, is a speakeasy hidden behind a secret door offering varieties of whiskey and dedicated food pairings. Guestrooms The 1820’s Grade II listed building has 152 guest rooms, including 15 suites. A neutral colour palette sets a perfect base for the unexpected play of patterns that are inspired by building’s rich past. There are wardrobes concealed behind a bookcase-like façade and robe hooks shaped as keys. Where no two rooms are the same, guests are welcome to ‘unlock the secret’ of Great Scotland Yard. No1 Great Scotland Yard Townhouse is a unique standalone two-bedroom property adjacent to the main building. Situated over five stories, it provides an exclusive and intimate experience for guests. Grace and Favour Situated in the hotel’s lower levels, a modern take on the historical ‘grace and favour’ residences, represents an exclusive members’ space that will allow guests to work in a creative environment, socialize with like-minded patrons and entertain special guests in  a sophisticated atmosphere. The space can also be exclusively booked for small and intimate events, meetings and celebrations. Wellness The 24-hour fitness center is equipped with the latest technology, from cardio equipment to strength training machines, providing guests with everything they need to enjoy a full workout. The Great Scotland Yard is the sixth property to open in Europe as part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt. It joins Hôtel Martinez in Cannes, Nish Palas in Istanbul, Hotel SOFIA Barcelona,  Hôtel du Louvre in Paris and Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest.

Accor releases white paper on the Business of wellness and hospitality

When stepping into a hotel these days, one cannot help but notice a growing wave of smoothie bowls, pilates poses, and mindfulness seminars. For many years, Accor has been at the forefront of the wellbeing movement, leading the way to integrate health and wellness into all aspects of the guest experience. In a new white paper, “It’s a Wellness World: The Global Shift Shaking up Our Business”, Accor explores the fundamental societal shift currently underway as the lifestyle goal of feeling healthier has moved out from beyond the walls of the spas and gyms and entered the mainstream. The informative report goes on to discuss the opportunities the wellness movement provides for hoteliers and some of the unique ways that Accor brands will deepen their commitments in this vital area throughout 2020 and beyond.  “At Accor, our goal is to have guests experience a sense of wellbeing during their stay and that they leave feeling better than when they arrived; better rested, more nourished and in a happier state of mind,” said Emlyn Brown, Global Vice-President, Wellbeing, Luxury & Premium Brands, Accor. “A delighted guest is naturally more inspired to return. Therefore, by investing in holistic wellness experiences that help our guests feel good throughout the customer journey, we are establishing a model for strong revenue growth through return bookings, word-of-mouth referrals, and positive social media presence, contributing to a steady and sustainable business for years to come.” “It’s a Wellness World: The Global Shift Shaking up Our Business” reveals that 77% of consumers “take steps in their daily lives to stay healthy, make informed food choices, stay active and manage stress.”* Furthermore, some 56% of affluent travelers place a top priority on the statement, “I’m striving to become healthier in the coming year.”** The report also explores numerous economic and social factors that are driving the rise of wellness around the world. “As the wellness movement matures, and wellness offerings become a standard expectation within the hospitality industry, we are seeing a growing emphasis not only on healthy food options, relaxation, and movement but on such fundamental health necessities as clean water and air,” said Anne Dimon, CEO & President of the Wellness Tourism Association. “The mindset of wellness has evolved beyond spas and workout spaces, challenging the hospitality industry to consider how it integrates other health considerations such mindfulness and time spent in nature, along with environmental concerns – such as reducing indoor pollution and eliminating plastics – into its daily operations.” Accor’s well-being white paper will act as a catalyst to help energize the company’s wellness teams globally, while also informing and enhancing the five key pillars that guide Accor’s overall approach to well-being – Active Nutrition, Holistic Design, Bodies in Movement, Leveraging Spa, and Embracing Mindfulness – all of which are adapted and adopted by the company’s hotel brands based on a number of important factors including guest preference, demographics, brand positioning, culture and location. The report also delves deeper into this tailored approach and showcases several examples of how some of Accor’s leading hotel brands are uniquely evolving with the wellness movement. For example: Raffles Hotels & Resorts creates bespoke experiences to enhance guests’ emotional wellbeing, allowing them the opportunity to experience serenity, harmony, and pleasure. The brand is employing Feng Shui and Biophilia techniques to bring peace and balance to its interior spaces; menus designed to enhance sleep, counter jet lag and promote digestive health, and sleep rituals include aromatherapy and luxury sleep masks. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is a gateway to hundreds of wellbeing experiences, from heart-racing workouts to heartfelt moments of peace and tranquility. The brand’s apparel and gear-lending program ensures guests are ready for fitness anytime; green spaces connect guests to nature; a sustainable drinking water program and high-quality organic and local food employ an environmentally respectful approach. SO/ Hotels & Resorts’ approach to wellness aims to bring balance to those who live fast and play hard. The brand’s Glow Bar offering provides the latest in skin and beauty treatments, while Deep Beats Yoga brings the power of sound to enrich the physical and mental experience of en masse yoga.  MGallery Hotel Collection seeks to nourish the soul and empower guests with a balanced lifestyle among thoughtfully designed spaces. In-room amenities are curated for self-care, while signature treatments, healthful menus and positively affirming mantras inspire guests to feel their best, inside and out. Pullman Hotels & Resorts delivers Power Fitness to guests who want to achieve peak physical performance, in between working and having fun. The hotels feature energetic power fitness zones; video on-demand exercise classes; Power Up food and beverage menus for optimal nutrition; and a global ambassador fitness program to keep workouts fresh and inspired.  Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its Vitality Room concept. These customized suites include circadian lighting technology; in-room yoga stations; wellness walls with fitness training modules; black-out blinds; air purification systems; shower lighting and scent customization; and high vitality snack and superfoods bars. “Wellness is a golden opportunity for the hospitality industry,” added Brown. “Feeling healthy is a universal, emotionally-charged, and frequent concern for all demographics of guests and cuts across all areas of life, from daily routines to exceptional, transformative travel experiences. Our diverse hotel brands look forward to embracing the challenge of continuously surprising and delighting our guests with new ways to achieve health and well-being during their travels, inspiring them to choose our hotels again and again.”

Hyatt to add 20 new luxury hotels and resorts by the End of 2020

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced that more than 20 new luxury hotels and resorts are expected to open worldwide by the end of 2020, boosting Hyatt’s luxury portfolio. The additions include new properties under the Park Hyatt, Andaz, Alila, Grand Hyatt, Miraval and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brands. As part of this global expansion, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand is seeing its strongest growth to date in Europe. The brand is known for an exceptional portfolio of true historic gems as well as contemporary properties with a fascinating past. Each hotel within the collection provides one-of-a-kind experiences attracting independently minded travelers looking for the extraordinary. Upcoming hotels include distinctive properties like Great Scotland Yard, the location of London’s former metropolitan police headquarters, expected to open December 9; and the majestic Hôtel du Palais Biarritz, the former imperial residence of Napoleon III, which is due to reopen in June 2020 after an extensive renovation. “With our growth acceleration in the luxury segment, we will have the opportunity to care for more travelers around the globe through a range of differentiated high-end experiences,” said Mark Vondrasek, chief commercial officer, Hyatt. “We’re excited to expand into new markets and enhance the global footprint of our brands, giving our guests and members additional ways to connect with our luxury offerings in places where they want to be.” Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2020, the Park Hyatt brand is also a key contributor to Hyatt’s luxury portfolio growth, with five Park Hyatt hotels expected to open by 2020 in Doha, Qatar; Jakarta, Indonesia; Niseko, Japan; Suzhou, China; and Auckland, New Zealand. With its world-renowned artwork, sophisticated design, and sought-after dining experiences – with several Michelin-starred restaurants, now totaling three in Europe – the brand caters to discerning travelers who appreciate understated luxury and an intimate, residential stay. Throughout the decades, Park Hyatt hotels have delivered immersive experiences, creating a refined home away from home for guests. “Across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, as well as Southwest Asia, luxury properties account for over a third (35 percent) of our portfolio,” said Peter Fulton, group president – EAME SWA, Hyatt. “Europe in particular, with its unique and historic architecture, represents a natural home for The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand, and as we expand with our lifestyle and independent brands, we are confident our new offerings will cater to high-end travelers who are seeking an unprecedented stay.” Other announcements include the expansion of the Alila brand, which delivers world-class service and crafts rare and intimate experiences for its guests, with three luxury resorts expected to open in Switzerland, Malaysia and Oman. In addition, six Andaz branded luxury lifestyle properties are due to open in Dubai, UAE; Prague, Czech Republic; Bali, Indonesia; Shenzhen and Xiamen in China; and Palm Springs, California, offering distinctively local experiences and creative design within open, barrier-free spaces. The Grand Hyatt brand is also set to continue to steadily grow with new openings in Hefei and the Shenzhou Peninsula in China, Kuwait, Gurgaon in India, Jeju in South Korea, and Nashville, Tennessee, along with the first Grand Hyatt hotel in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia. Known for its bold and vibrant architecture and welcoming service, Hyatt’s largest luxury brand, Grand Hyatt, celebrates the iconic in small details and magnificent moments. Planned Alila openings Alila Dalit Bay in Malaysia (2020) Alila Hinu Bay in Oman (2020) Alila La Gruyère in Switzerland (2023) Planned/Recent Andaz openings Andaz Dubai The Palm (2019)–will mark the brand’s entry into Dubai Andaz Bali (2020)–will mark the brand’s entry into Indonesia Andaz Shenzhen in China (2020) Andaz Xiamen in China (2020) Andaz Palm Springs in the U.S. (2020) Andaz Prague (2022)–will mark first Hyatt hotel in the Czech Republic Andaz Seoul Gangnam in South Korea (opened 2019) Planned/Recent Grand Hyatt openings Grand Hyatt Hefei in China (2019) Grand Hyatt Al Khobar (2020)–will mark the brand’s entry into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Grand Hyatt Kuwait (2020)–will mark the brand’s entry into Kuwait Grand Hyatt Gurgaon in India (2020) Grand Hyatt Jeju in South Korea (2020)–will mark largest Grand Hyatt hotel in Asia Pacific Grand Hyatt Nashville in the US (2020)–will mark the brand’s entry into Tennessee Grand Hyatt Shenzhou Peninsula in China (2020) Grand Hyatt at SFO–only on-airport hotel at SFO (opened 2019) Planned/Recent Park Hyatt openings Park Hyatt Doha (2019)–will mark the brand’s entry into Qatar Park Hyatt Auckland (2020)–will mark the brand’s entry into New Zealand Park Hyatt Jakarta (2020)–will mark the brand’s entry into Indonesia Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono in Japan (2020) Park Hyatt Suzhou in China (2020) Park Hyatt Kyoto in Japan (opened 2019) Planned The Unbound Collection by Hyatt openings Great Scotland Yard (2019)–will mark the brand’s entry into the UK Hotel du Palais Biarritz in France (2020) Planned Miraval openings Miraval Berkshires Resort and Spa in the US (2020)—will mark the brand’s entry into Massachusetts

Accor’s milestone partnership with Global Premium Hotels

After inking a deal with Global Premium Hotels, Accor is pleased to unveil 13 new ibis budget hotels rebranded from existing Fragrance hotels. The conclusion of this partnership cements Accor’s position as the largest hotel operator in Singapore, bringing its total inventory to 7,625 rooms across 30 hotels (3,357 rooms in the luxury and premium space, 1,840 in midscale and 2,428 in economy). The two Parc Sovereign hotels will commence renovation plans towards the end of 2019 and will be rebranded to become one Mercure and one ibis Styles hotel by mid-2020. “With its nifty and modern design, these new ibis budget hotels spread across central and suburban locations in Singapore are perfect for savvy business or leisure travellers. Featuring cosy rooms for one, two or three people and conveniently located to leisure attractions such as Gardens by the Bay, Clarke Quay, Mount Faber and Sentosa Island, these new additions to our network in the city offer wider choices to guests looking for a short break or weekend getaway,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Operating Officer, Accor Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore & South Asia. GPHL CEO Ko Lee Meng, said, “We are excited to launch a new Accor brand in the market and deepen our relationship with Accor. Having provided quality accommodation and great value to visitors to Singapore these past 20 years, the rebranding and enhancement of our existing properties marks not just another milestone for our group, but an evolution in our business and a boost to our expansion strategy.” Ranging in size from 32 rooms to 168 rooms, selected hotels also feature a pool and/or gym. ibis budget Singapore Clarke Quay, located five minutes’ walk from Clarke Quay MRT Station and the Singapore River, features a fitness centre and a rooftop swimming pool. The ibis budget Singapore Selegie boasts a rooftop pool with great views of Singapore’s city skyline. Additionally, ibis budget Singapore Clarke Quay, ibis budget Singapore Imperial and ibis budget Singapore Selegie offer a casual dining café. The ibis budget Singapore Mount Faber and ibis budget Singapore West Coast are a short drive from VivoCity, Singapore’s largest mall and gateway to Sentosa Island and its many leisure attractions – Universal Studios, various theme parks, sandy beaches and lush rainforests. The cluster of hotels in the eastern suburbs of Joo Chiat and Geylang are a foodie’s haven, with famous local eateries and dining houses recommended by food bloggers and influencers within walking distance. Selected hotels offer assistance with sightseeing and guided tours to these hidden gems that are not commonly found on a tourist map.

Kimpton Hotel Palomar South Beach to open in Miami

Kimpton Hotel Palomar South Beach is set to welcome its first guests in late 2019. The chic property will be located in the heart of South Beach, a popular international and local destination in Miami Beach. It will be the boutique hotel company’s fifth in the Sunshine State, complementing its existing hotels in Miami Beach, Downtown Miami and Vero Beach. Altamarea Group, the New York restaurant Hospitality Group, will run the hotel’s food and beverage program, and bring its highly popular Osteria Morini brand from Soho to the Kimpton Palomar. “We’re thrilled to be opening our doors in South Beach this fall, and excited to partner with the Altamarea Group,” said Fernando Rivera, the property’s newly appointed general manager. “At the Palomar, guests will not only be surrounded by world-class restaurants, shopping and other great amenities, but they will also enjoy state-of-the-art design, technology, luxury and the unparalleled service that embodies the Kimpton ethos.” Located at the gateway of the locally loved Sunset Harbour neighbourhood, Kimpton Hotel Palomar South Beach is a sophisticated retreat just steps away from the city’s newest and most exciting restaurants, shops, wellness experiences and nightlife. Featuring striking design by Miami architect and designer Kobi Karp, Kimpton Hotel Palomar South Beach is set to become an iconic addition to the South Beach scene. Karp’s design takes its cues from the waterfront. The hotel spans five stories with 96 rooms surrounding a spacious central atrium. Meant to resemble the hull of a private luxury yacht lilted on its side, the lobby excites the senses with its custom-built light installations and is peppered with art displays, including light panels, abstracted shapes, and large format fabrics meant to resemble the ripples of the Atlantic Ocean. Guest rooms feature private balconies available for nearly every guest and design that is inspired by the oceanic environs.

The first hotel by the luxury brand Marriott Hotel Group in Oman

Marriott International to debut St Regis hotel brand in Oman

The project is expected to bring 271 luxury rooms and 170 branded residences to Muscat Marriott International will debut the St Regis brand — St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort — in Oman after it signed an agreement. The resort is expected to open in 2022. The 271-room resort will come up in Al Mouj Muscat and will include plans for 170 branded residential units, including a mix of apartments, penthouses and townhouses. The residences are also expected to be completed by 2022. “The signing of St. Regis in Oman is a natural progression for the brand’s portfolio, as the brand continues to become one of the most recognised and sought-after luxury hotel brands in the region,” said Alex Kyriakidis, president and managing director, Middle East & Africa for Marriott International. “We are thrilled to bring this significant project to Oman, especially to this strategic location in one of the most desired waterfront masterplans in the city of Muscat.” Guests are expected to have access to a portfolio of leisure amenities in the Al Mouj Muscat community, including a planned 360-berth marina with retail and dining options, as well as a clubhouse with watersport activities. Guests could be allowed to access the Al Mouj Golf – an 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Greg Norman. Plans for the resort also include a 1,100-square-metre ballroom for corporate gatherings, special events or weddings.

Marriott to debut Luxury Collection in Saudi Arabia

The Assila Hotel features 210 guestrooms Hospitality giant Marriott International will be introducing its Luxury Collection in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia after it signed an agreement with Assila Investments to launch the Assila Hotel. The property is expected to join The Luxury Collection’s portfolio of more than 100 hotels and resorts in 2020. Assila Hotel features 210 guestrooms, including a royal suite, and 94 apartments. It comprises multiple food and beverage venues, including a Café Lounge and Argentinian and Mediterranean specialty restaurants. Speaking about the agreement, Bader Alissa, CEO, Assila Investments said: “We are thrilled to have Marriott International manage the beautiful Assila Hotel, under the Luxury Collection brand. This only affirms Assila Hotel’s position as a premier luxury hotel in Jeddah.” The hotel also includes a ballroom and nine meeting rooms, as well as full-service recreational facilities such as a spa, fitness centre and squash courts. “This deal signing supports our plans to further diversify our footprint in the Kingdom while enhancing our overall luxury portfolio in the region,” Alex Kyriakidis, president and managing director, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International said. The hotel is situated close to planned ‘New Jeddah Downtown’ development, a mixed-used project on Jeddah’s five million square metre waterfront anticipated to launch in 2022.

Luxury bath and spa hotel on Maldives island

IHCL identifies properties for buyout possibility

The hospitality group is attempting to reduce its debt The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) and its Singapore-based partner GIC have reportedly lined up seven to eight hotel properties for a possible buyout. A few months ago, IHCL created a platform (worth US$600 million) with Singapore-based wealth fund GIC to acquire operational hotels in India’s luxury segment. According to a report by moneycontrol.com, Puneet Chhatwal, IHCL’s MD told analysts that the group is now in the process of identifying a list of seven to eight assets, including “several distressed” ones. Chatwal said that the company was looking forward to be able to announce the buyout of at least one asset within the next three months. The group is currently attempting to reduce its debt that stands at INR1,975 crores (net debt) to less that INR1,000 crore. According to reports, IHCL could even look at its own properties for acquisition but is currently refraining from doing so as the market in India is slow.