An agreement to this effect was signed with the Board of Investment (BOI) last week. 

The refurbishment is expected to be completed within a time frame of 20 months. At present Hunas Falls Hotel has 28 Deluxe Rooms, and three suites.

In March this year, Hunas Holdings PLC announced a landmark partnership with Azotels, a company owned and managed by the ‘Hotelier of the Century’, Adrian Zecha.

The partnership will see Azotels developing the Hunas Falls Hotel into a high-end luxury hotel with villas, whilst also undertaking the management of the establishment, which is guaranteed to bring it in line with the best hotels in the world.

Source: Hunas Falls Hotel goes for $ 12 m upgrade; signs BOI deal | Daily FT

The world-renowned architect Deshamanya Geoffrey Bawa acknowledged as ‘father of tropical modernism’ was responsible for reviving the Sri Lankan architectural space with suave lines and modern sensibilities whilst encompassing local traditions and its vibrancies. The exhibition hosted at NGMA until 7 May 2023 is a celebration of the 75th anniversary of Indo-Lanka Diplomatic Relations and features over 120 documents from the Bawa archives, most of which have never been shown publicly previously.

The Breathtaking, Heritance Kandalama blending with the environment

On board as a primary sponsor, Aitken Spence Hotels’ Heritance Kandalama will host an exclusive invitees-only event on 7 April at The Claridges featuring an intimate conversation between Indian photographer extraordinaire Dayanita Singh and leading Sri Lankan architect and student of Bawa, Channa Daswatte. Both heavily influenced by the work and practices of Sri Lanka’s most prolific and influential architect, the conversation will take a deep dive into ephemeral yet stoic qualities that make Bawa design what it is revered for today. Daswatte was also heavily involved in the work of Heritance Kandalama and will share first-hand insights into the thought process behind the world’s first LEED certified and Asia’s first Green Globe certified hotel for sustainable design and practices.

“We are honoured to partner with the Bawa Trust in taking the work of our legendary architect Deshamanya Geoffrey Bawa to the world in an exhibition of this caliber. Among his most formidable creations, Heritance Kandalama is an iconic masterpiece given its unique amalgamation of nature and modern comforts. We hope this exhibition will inspire a new generation of architects to think innovatively to address current and future needs of the world, while preserving our inherent traditions and values, symbiotically,” commented Ms. Stasshani Jayawardena – Aitken Spence PLC Director, Head of Tourism and Leisure, and Chairperson of Aitken Spence Hotel Management.

The exhibition is jointly organized by the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi, the High Commission of Sri Lanka in New Delhi and the Geoffrey Bawa Trust.

Among Bawa’s most visionary designs, encompassing eco-aesthetics with operational efficiencies, marrying nature with the need of travellers, Heritance Kandalama resembles the outspread wings of a bird, following the line of the cliff from which it seems to emerge. The hotel is an incredible 1km from end to end, and rises up seven floors, yet appears to be an effortless natural extension of the mountainside. The flat roof and timber pillars provision a screen of vegetation that attracts local wildlife, whilst the entire building is festooned with longwinded plants, blending it further into its natural setting, The nature theme is continued within with a classy ‘eco’ aesthetic with interiors benefiting from Bawa’s signature vast open windows, which let in natural light abundantly and allowing wildlife-watching from wherever you stand.

Heritance Kandalama – the dream sketch by Deshamanya Geoffrey Bawa

Taking centre stage at this unique exhibition, Heritance Kandalama and its story is likely to influence the many international art and design enthusiasts, scholars, journalists and high-profile dignitaries attending the events to further drive the cohabitation of nature and design, whilst exploring the four thematic sections – exploring relationships between ideas, drawings, buildings and places, the exhibition explores the different ways in which images were used in Bawa’s practice.

For more information on Heritance Kandalama, log on to http://www.heritancehotels.com/kandalama

For more on the exhibition, log on to https://bawaexhibition.com

Source: https://island.lk/aitken-spences-heritance-kandalama-takes-spotlight-at-delhis-first-bawa-archive-show-in-india/

Premier hospitality chain, Aitken Spence Hotel Managements’ Heritance brand of properties has been endorsed for its sustainable tourism efforts by the prestigious international recognition – Travelife Gold.

Heritance Kandalama, Heritance Ahungalla, Heritance Negombo, Heritance Tea Factory and Heritance Ayurveda have been recognized and certified for their continued efforts in enhancing their sustainability footprint in operations, services, awareness creation and guest satisfaction.

Travelife – the international sustainability certification scheme – assesses a hotel’s performance in managing its social, environmental and economic impacts, and in supporting sustainability as part of its hotel marketing and operational strategies. Travelife sustainability certification is a non-profit flagship program that supports tourism destinations, businesses and travelers in implementing innovative solutions for the continuous development of sustainable tourism.

To gain Travelife Gold Certification, the resorts met all criteria with an independent auditor inspection which includes sustainability management systems – the likes of business policies, legislation, community programs, human and financial resources as well as environment management across energy, water, solid waste, pollution, erosion and wildlife. The resorts are also assessed on labor and human resources, community integration, suppliers, and guests.

“As an advocate of responsible tourism, we are proud to announce that Heritance Hotels and Resorts in Sri Lanka are Travelife Gold certified,” said Stasshani Jayawardena Executive Director Aitken Spence PLC, Head of Tourism and Leisure, and Chairperson of Aitken Spence Hotel Managements. “This is a reiteration of our longstanding commitment to curate a memorable holiday experience for our guests while ensuring that the impact of our property on the community and planet is a positive one.” Heritance Hotels and Resorts originally received the certification in 2017 and has continued to be recertified over the years. “The recertification confirms our collective dedication to minimizing environmental impact, improving economic and social impacts for people in our community, respecting and protecting human rights and fair labour practices and safeguarding animal welfare and biodiversity.”

She further noted that this reflects the ethos behind sustainability that is ingrained into the management and operations of the Aitken Spence Hotels which is driven by a value creation model revolving around strategic pillars, identified by the Company based on long-term aspirations.

Aitken Spence Hotels is part of the Sri Lankan blue-chip conglomerate Aitken Spence PLC and operates 18 hotels and resorts across Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman, and India. The Company’s owned hotels are reflected under the Heritance, Adaaran and Turyaa brands, popular around the world for their exceptional service and curated lifestyle experiences. The Company’s portfolio includes nine hotels and resorts across Sri Lanka, five in the Maldives, four in Oman, and one in India.

Source: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_23A/Mar19_1679207998CH.php

Granbell Hotel Colombo the first 4-star hotel in Colombo uniting the Sri Lankan and Japanese design philosophies will open on 27 April. The sister property of Le Grand Galle and proudly situated on the Western coast, Granbell Hotel Colombo welcomes all to an eventful experience in the heart of the capital city of Colombo located next to the Colpetty railway station.

The property is managed by BELLUNA Co. Ltd., a leading Japanese company listed on the Tokyo stock exchange. Belluna owns and manages properties globally in Japan, Maldives and Sri Lanka. The project commenced in 2016 and is constructed by Hazama Ando Corporation Japan, a leading Japanese construction company combining the Sri Lankan-inspired craftsmanship with Japanese architecture, making it the first of its kind in Colombo.

Rising above the city, the hotel provides guests with a number of exciting facilities and services, including a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city of Colombo, a rooftop infinity pool, an all-day dining restaurant, a gym, dance studio, spa and yoga which can be utilised via an exclusive membership program as well. With a convenient location between the cosmopolitan city centre and the upcoming verdant suburbs, the hotel is surrounded by the best of the island capital. From historic sites that take one back to various eras, to busy markets that treat one to an inviting harmony of chaos and an array of fine dining and shopping experiences, one will always have something to do in the island capital.

Commenting on the upcoming opening of the hotel Granbell Hotel Colombo General Manager Toshiyuki Hatanaka said, “Our hotel is the ideal getaway for guests who are looking to step away from the daily stress in their lives. It’s also the ideal place for those who are looking to host corporate gatherings, as we offer all the facilities for meetings or conferences. We provide our guests with an extraordinary experience right in the heart of Colombo.”

The 292 rooms come with a mix of sea view and city view, with windows that can be partially opened to experience fresh air and a sustainable design concept with open-air corridors on each floor. Comfortable and spacious rooms are equipped with air-conditioners, WI-FI, USB ports, universal sockets, tea/coffee and many more. All bathrooms include a bathtub, rain shower and state-of-the-art Toto Japanese toilets, offering relaxation and excitement to the valued guests.

The hotel features a Japanese restaurant serving teppanyaki and tempura cuisine, orchestrated and prepared by its skilled Japanese head chef Hiroya Naga and the team, along with a vast collection of wines as well as signature cocktails. The banquet hall offers space for weddings, meetings, conferences and corporate events with a seating capacity of up to 80 people (200 standing, which would include the terrace area) with an indoor area of 130 sqm and a terrace of 100 sqm. This ideal hotel will soon open its doors for those searching for a family day out, business and leisure travel or corporate events.

Source: https://www.ft.lk/travel-tourism/Granbell-Hotel-Colombo-to-introduce-a-mix-of-Sri-Lankan-and-Japanese-hospitality/27-733661

Siddhalepa’s new Clinic at Horton Place, Colombo 7, is a gateway to initiate you into a whole new Ayurveda journey in achieving an ideal balanced, healthy new lifestyle.  

The truly holistic experience for the mind, body and soul offers the perfect package of therapy for everyone, from all walks of life. 

The Clinic’s clay brickwork façade leads to more earthy tones of brick and cobblestones and open spaces, lush with greenery and the sound of fresh water trickling into miniature ponds; an ambiance totally in harmony with nature, spinning a web of tranquillity and serenity as you step inside. 

A large Lotus pond in full bloom is a magnificent greeting as you walk into the warm welcome of the Guest Relations Officer. She will gently shepherd you into the safe hands of an Ayurveda Doctor on duty to  assist you with your choice of treatment. Routine tests, for a regular health check, depending on individual body type and other diagnoses and you are inducted into an exhilarating experience which is guaranteed to transform you into a “new you.”  

The Clinic tailor-makes a package based on your health  requirements, general health condition and the Ayurveda physician’s advice. The examination and advise of the physician are complimentary and an important initial step to selecting the ideal package for each individual customer. The physicians on duty at the Clinic are affiliated to Siddhalepa Ayurveda Hospital in Mt. Lavinia. 

For corporate executives, a quick half hour head/neck massage on your way back home after a long stressful day will revive and restore your strained nerves and rebuild your system for more long hours at work.   

Longer therapy of one to two hours is recommended for neck and shoulders or total body therapy in the privacy of a comfortable room, in soft hues of blue and grey, with soothing background music to calm your senses, as skilled hands rebuild your lost energy with Ayurveda oils. 

A full day’s therapy is designed to take customers on a journey of discovery under the expertise of skilled therapists. In between session customers are treated to a cup of warm herbal tea in the Clinic’s relaxation area, designed for complete comfort and unwinding.

The large ergometric arm chairs to stretch out as you gaze up to a large dome, with the soothing sound of water falling and flowing into a pond, creates the ambiance of calmness and stillness of the environment unconsciously driving you into a meditative state of mind. 

“Our new Siddhalepa Clinic symbolises, healthy, relaxing Ayurveda therapies for balanced living in a tranquil and environment. We are constantly improving our products, techniques and services to achieve the ultimate balanced healthy life for our clientele,” Siddhalepa Director Vidyani Hettigoda said. 

“A balanced healthy living makes you more wholesome with an ideal balance of your body and mind. These therapies assist you in your digestions and metabolism,” she added. “The results of healthy living will even be visible on the outside as even the condition of your skin, hair would visibly improve and become healthier,” she said. 

The Clinic’s range of treatments include the Full Day and Half Day Ayur Spa Rituals, Ayur Detox and Tone and their signature treatments like the Shirodara. 

The wide range of treatments developed from ancient Hela Weda Ayurveda healing remedies and beauty and rejuvenation secrets of Asia are all designed carefully to ensure optimum results. The extensive list of massages that highlight each crucial part of the body as well as various herbal baths, body wraps and inhalation remedies are all created to nourish and heal. 

All herbal oils and personal care items used in the Clinic for treatment and on sale in their boutique are manufactured in the Siddhalepa factory using natural and herbal raw material to International ISO specifications.  

The Clinic has introduced 30-45 minute packages for on holistic living, tailor made particularly for the corporate sector. Lectures on healthy lifestyle are conducted by an Ayurveda physician where corporate executives trying to strike a balance with their busy office schedules and family life are initiated into the art of healthy living. 

The programs are custom made and participants have the opportunity of speaking to the physician individually for advice and are encouraged to continue the healthy balance lifestyle in their homes.  

Special wedding packages for brides, families, housewives and senior citizens are also custom made for individual occasions or persons. The Clinic also offers a range of Wedding gift vouchers.   

Siddhalepa Clinic’s restaurant on the ground level is another delightful nest of discovery. The breakfast and lunch menus include fresh juices and healthy Ayurveda food. Anyone can walk into the restaurant to enjoy the  range of healthy food and juices, as it is not restricted to the Clinic’s customers only. The menus health food dishes and juices are carefully selected to address the human body’s Vatha, Pitha, Kappa doshas (issues). 

Siddhalepa’s expansive spa menu for personal care, herbal teas, elixir, wines and gift items are available in the boutique in a quiet niche on the ground floor. 

The Clinic’s yoga therapy which bonds with healthy living is on different concept. A yoga master conducts individual classes for clients in a semi-circular area on the upper floor, with just a glimpse of the outside world through a unique design created by famous Architect Palinda Kannangara who created the design and concept for Siddhalepa Clinic. 

Hettigoda Industries Ltd., pioneer and leading Ayurveda products manufacturer, with a rich heritage of over 200 years, passing on to the sixth generation, plays a key role in shaping the future of Ayurveda industry in Sri Lanka and the Asian region. 

Deshabandu Chairman Dr. Victor Hettigoda, D. Litt, the self-made entrepreneur embarked on a long journey more than half a century ago, his only assets a secret recipe for an all-purpose medicinal balm from India, handed down generations to his forefathers and a vision make the balm an essential item in every home. Decades later Siddhalepa’s flagship brand, Siddhalepa balm known as the magic balm and also available as a spray, lead the way for the company to diversify into being the country’s leading brand of Ayurveda medical, healthcare, personal care and dentalcare products.

The group is also in the forefront of health tourism and Ayurveda spas and has expanded its product diversification to over 40 markets in Europe, China, Japan and Middle East.  

Source: https://www.ft.lk/travel-tourism/Siddhalepa-Clinic-Perfect-paradise-for-a-holistic-Ayurveda-healing-experience/27-733349

The ‘Wild Glamping Gal Oya’ tented luxury chalets recently joined the Theme Resorts portfolio even amidst the COVID pandemic. 

The luxury tented chalets were declared open by Ambassador of France to Sri Lanka and Maldives Eric Lavertu on 20 December 2021 during a simple ceremony. 

It’s situated in a 30-acre good practice agriculture farm in the Galoya Valley at Rathugala. The property consists of 10 spacious tents, a restaurant and an infinity pool. 

Built with the intention of sustainable tourism development, the project features new normal tourism trends such as Agri Tourism, WildLife Tourism, Ethnic tourism and Eco-Cultural tourism. Through each of these the property has focused on the triple bottom line of ‘People, Planet and Profits.’  

The property’s various green and sustainable initiatives include: good practice organic agriculture with drip irrigation systems; inhouse composting and traditional farming practices; direct current generation by the usage of individual solar panels for chalets and public areas; recycling of gray water generated from the property and reusing it for water closet flushing; eco-friendly designs being used to maximise the use of natural light and ventilation; use of earth bricks, clay, illuk grass, cajan and other materials outsourced from the locality for building construction; promotion of the indigenous culture of the the Rathugala, Danigala aadivasi community; provision of employment opportunities to those in the immediate vicinity; and promotion of unknown cultural /archaeological sites such as Rajagala.

Wild Glamping Galoya is nestled in a rural, under-privileged area home to Sri Lanka’s indigenous ‘Vadda’ community. The property, in its efforts to develop people in the area, has employed 95% of the required staff from these neighbouring indigenous communities. They have been given the opportunity to get involved in the constructional stages of the project, then thereafter, in the agricultural land development, which leads to the boosting of the local economy. 

This is Theme Resorts & Spas 11th property around the island pioneering creating  experiential hotels that truly encapsulate Sri Lanka and its many facets.

Source:https://www.ft.lk/travel-tourism/Theme-Resorts-opens-tented-luxury-chalets-Wild-Glamping-Gal-Oya/27-728787

Saman Villas, Sri Lanka’s first luxury boutique resort, reopened its doors to guests after an extensive refurbishment, on 7 October. 

The renovations include premium Italian leather furniture, home theatre systems, and silent air-conditioning in each of the expansive villas. The washrooms have been upgraded with free standing marble bathtubs and dual rain-showers while the restaurant features emotional lighting by renowned Spanish designer Arturo Alvarez, the first instalment of its kind in Sri Lanka. 

Saman Villas has long been considered the benchmark of boutique luxury and an iconic hotel along Sri Lanka’s south-western coastline. The 27-suite property has been welcoming discerning guests from across the world since 1995 and has undergone several refurbishments to ensure the property offers the best of contemporary amenities and luxury. 

The latest renovation sees Saman Villas once again bring state-of-the-art technology to its villas and restaurant while aesthetic elements elevate its design and appeal. 

Hand in hand with Saman Villas’ upgrades, the service has also been enhanced and redefined to meet the expectations and attitudes of the modern travel market, with a 24-hour personalised butler service for a bespoke service to all its guests. Complementing the intricate lighting system of the restaurant is the gourmet cuisine offered at Saman Villas, which can also be enjoyed at six secluded dining locations. 

As Sri Lanka looks forward to a revitalised tourism industry, Saman Villas is well placed to welcome guests back to the island and offer them the best of Sri Lanka’s hospitality.  

Source: https://www.ft.lk/travel-tourism/Luxury-redefined-at-Saman-Villas/27-725386

• All 3 resorts among Top 25 Resorts in Asia

The 2021 Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards were announced this week. Registered voters from across the globe weighed in on th eir favourite resorts. Resplendent Ceylon received recognition for all three resorts; Cape Weligama, Ceylon Tea Trails and Wild Coast Tented Lodge. 

The Resplendent hotels were featured in the Top 25 Resorts in Asia list – Cape Weligama at #4, Ceylon Tea Trails at #8 and Wild Coast Tented Lodge at #21.

The results highlight the travel experiences readers around the world long for most, the memories created and cherished over the years, especially when travel was restricted. 

Resplendent Ceylon Managing Director Malik J. Fernando said: “We are elated that all three Resplendent resorts were recognised once again this year – testament to how special travel experiences can enrich us. We are grateful for the support of our loyal guests for this vote of confidence and look forward to welcoming everyone, now that travel is back.”

Sri Lanka was also voted among the Top 5 Countries for travel. Fernando added: “The continued popularity of Sri Lanka bodes well for the recovery of tourism here, and highlights travellers’ love for our island and its people.”

Conceived by the Fernando family, Sri Lankan tea producers and founders of Dilmah Ceylon Tea, Resplendent Ceylon’s collection of small, luxury resorts offer the discerning traveller a remarkable circuit across Sri Lanka, with a range of authentic experiences. 

This “best of Sri Lanka” circuit features three distinctive resorts – Ceylon Tea Trails in the Central Highlands, Cape Weligama on the southern coast and Wild Coast Tented Lodge near in Yala National Park – all connected by a thread of peerless service. They are the sole Sri Lankan members of Relais & Chateaux, the global fellowship of individually owned and operated luxury hotels and restaurants.

Source: https://www.ft.lk/travel-tourism/Resplendent-Ceylon-recognised-by-Conde-Nast-Traveller-readers/27-724461

• The first COVID-19 certified Ayurveda Intermediate Care Centre in Sri Lanka

Approved by the Ministry of Health, the Barberyn Sands Ayurveda Resort was launched at a private function recently, opening the doors to a myriad of International and local clientele that seek healthy treatment plans during and post COVID-19. 

The resort will focus on quality eating patterns with customised Ayurveda centric meal plans while offering advice to enhance one’s natural ability to withstand the disease. The property is equipped with a team of qualified doctors and a 24-hour ambulance service, should the need arise for such treatment. 

The Barberyn Group of Resorts were found in 1968, and pioneered Ayurveda Tourism in Sri Lanka in 1984. Barbery Sands Ayurveda Resorts is the latest addition to Barberyn Group and the COVID-19 Intermediate Care Centre offers guests technics for yogic breathing, relaxation for mind, body and soul enhancing each individual’s immunity. The guests are able to work or meditate in a relaxing setting overlooking their verandas to the sea, river or garden as they please. 

“Most of the medicines we use are produced at the Barberyn Institute of Ayurveda and Alternative Medicine (IAAM) in Panadura, where we conduct research on indigenous medicine and medicinal plants. Quality control is maintained throughout the production cycle to ensure the pure natural goodness of the ingredients. Barberyn grows the medicinal plants required for its medicines as well as other rare plants at Barberyn Eco Properties. We also source some from small-scale growers in the surrounding areas,” Dr. Asanga Rodrigo of Barberyn Ayurveda Resorts explained.

State Minister of Indigenous Medicine, Rural and Ayurveda Hospital Development and Community Health Sisira Jayakody said, “The 5,000-year-old Ayurveda therapy has two main objectives; that of treating the symptoms of a disease and that of helping individuals to strengthen their immune system. Since COVID-19 began we have encountered Ayurveda and the Desheeya Vedakama as two successful streams that have helped Covid patients to recover with better immunity. Our treatments have further helped with post COVID complications too. I am happy that apart from the government hospitals, the private Ayurveda COVID-19 Intermediate Care Centres are embarking on treating covid patients with natural remedies and care.”

Ayurveda gives equal importance to the maintenance of health and the curing of a disease. It does not simply suppress the disease, but rather aims at removing the disease from its root. Ayurvedic principles state that the imbalance of the three biological energies (Tri Dosha) creates a disease – due to years of poor diet, weak digestion, weak metabolism and incomplete elimination of waste matter, inadequate sleep, pollution, stress can lead to the production and accumulation of toxins (Ama) inside your body.

“The opening of the first MOH approved Ayurveda COVID-19 Intermediate Care Centre by Barberyn Resorts is a significant milestone in the healthcare system and the wellness tourism industry in Sri Lanka,” said Paddy Withana, Former Chairman of Tourist Board and well-known hotelier. “As an entity registered by the Sri Lanka Department of Ayurveda, it combines the western and Ayurvedic approaches in the treatment and after-care relating to COVID-19. It is also a welcome move to attract more tourists to Sri Lanka for Ayurvedic treatment and support the tourism industry in Sri Lanka.” 

Marriott International currently is the hotel chain with the largest number of rooms in the South Asia region and expects to continue its solid growth with these new signings.

“In a highly unpredictable year, these signings are a testament to Marriott International’s resilience and agility in driving strong growth within a hospitality landscape that continues to evolve,” commented – Marriott International president the Asia Pacific Rajeev Menon.

More than a third of the newly signed projects in South Asia in the last 18 months include hotels and resorts in the luxury tier, comprised of brands such as JW Marriott and W Hotels.

The new additions start with the W Hotels brand in Jaipur with W Jaipur in 2024 and over the next five years will include JW Marriott Ranthambore Resort & Spa located at one of India’s most prominent wildlife sanctuaries, The Ranthambore National Park; JW Marriott Chennai ECR Resort & Spa on India’s beautiful Southern coastline; JW Marriott Agra Resort & Spa in the land of the Taj Mahal; and the debut of the JW Marriott brand in Goa and Shimla – two of India’s most famous resort destinations – with JW Marriott Hotel Goa and JW Marriott Shimla Resort & Spa.

JW Marriott Hotel Bhutan, Thimphu is expected to mark the debut of the JW Marriott brand in Bhutan, is anticipated to open in 2025 and offer curated experiences that celebrate the peaceful spirit of the land.

Maldives anticipates its second JW Marriott hotel in 2025, when the JW Marriott Resort & Spa, Embhoodhoo Finolhu – South Male Atoll featuring 80 pool villas is expected to open. The signing follows the newly opened The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, strengthening Marriott’s footprint on the famed leisure destination.

Driving Marriott’s expansion in South Asia are Fairfield by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton, Aloft Hotels and Moxy Hotels. They represent more than 40% of the 22 newly signed hotel projects. The Moxy brand is expected to debut in India and Nepal, with Moxy Mumbai Andheri West in 2023 and Moxy Kathmandu in 2025.

Secondary markets remain a focus for Marriott International in India. Most of the expansion will be through the Courtyard by Marriott and Fairfield by Marriott brands through recently signed agreements. Courtyard by Marriott expects to add five new properties to an existing operating portfolio of 20 hotels across South Asia. Four of these properties are expected to open in the next five years and will be located in leading tier-two markets within India: Courtyard by Marriott Gorakhpur; Courtyard by Marriott Tiruchirappalli; Courtyard by Marriott Goa Arpora; and Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi. Fairfield expects to add two new properties in Jaipur. In Sri Lanka, the Courtyard by Marriott Colombo expects to mark the debut of the Courtyard brand in the country, slated to open in 2022.

Furthering the growth of premium brands in South Asia, the recent signings include the Katra Marriott Resort & Spa in India and the Le Meridien Kathmandu, which is expected to be the debut of the Le Meridien brand in Nepal. Additionally, the Bhaluka Marriott Hotel expects to mark the entry of the Marriott Hotels brand in Bangladesh, anticipated to open in 2024.

Source: https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/10/marriott-expands-in-south-asia/