Hospitality giant Marriott International is establishing a new Marriott Tech Accelerator in Hyderabad, India. It will be the company’s first global capability center. It will serve as an expansion of the company’s global technology team and will support Marriott’s global tech infrastructure, engineering solutions and security capabilities. “We have chosen to establish the Marriott Tech Accelerator in Hyderabad, India because of its world-class talent and strong reputation as a major IT hub,” said Drew Pinto, EVP, Marriott International. Marriott has been doing business in India since 1999 with the opening of the Goa Marriott Resort and Spa. Earlier this year, the company celebrated its 150th hotel in India, the Marriott Katra Resort and Spa. The company’s expansion plans in India are expected to take its room count from around 29,000 rooms across 17 brands as of October 2024 , to over 42,000 rooms in the coming years. 

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Marriott Executive Apartments has made its debut in Penang, Malaysia alongside the existing Penang Marriott Hotel and Marriott Residences Penang at their Gurney Drive seafront location. Marriott Executive Apartments Penang long stay guests get access to hotel services like the outdoor infinity pool and dining options. The serviced apartment experience features separate sleeping and living areas, kitchens, and features such as a fitness and business centre. “Our goal is to provide guests with a home away from home, offering the perfect balance of privacy, comfort, and hospitality,” said Ramesh Jackson, Area Vice President, Indonesia & Malaysia, Marriott International. It comprises 90 suites, featuring a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom options. There are three dining venues and a bar and lounge. Apartment guests also have use of the hotel complex meeting and function rooms including a pillarless grand ballroom.   

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The Sheraton brand has officially opened its 100th China hotel with the debut of Sheraton Lanzhou Anning. The brand first entered Greater China 50 years ago. Located in Lanzhou's Anning District, the new hotel features 354 modern guest rooms and suites. The China hotel’s amenities range from three restaurants and a specialty café concept, the signature Community Table social workspace, club lounges and varied meeting and event spaces. “We are delighted to welcome the 100th hotel. Sheraton has become a symbol of premium hotel brand in the country,” said Betty Tian, VP, Marketing, Communications, Premium & Select Brands, Greater China. The China hotel is 55 kilometers from Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport and about 6 km from Lanzhou West Railway Station. 

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Marriott International has announced its entry into the midscale hospitality segment in Japan. It follows KKR’s acquisition of Unizo Hotel Company, Limited and a portfolio of 14 hotels in Japan from Unizo Holdings. These 14 Japan hotels will be converted to Four Points Express by Sheraton. This is Marriott’s entry into the affordable midscale segment in Japan and the brand’s debut in Asia Pacific. The Japan hotels are located in major tourist destinations across 10 cities including Hakodate, Morioka, Utsunomiya, Yokohama, Kanazawa, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Hakata. The properties are expected to open in the second half of 2024. They will add more than 3,600 new rooms to KKR’s and Marriott’s respective hotel portfolios in Japan. Four Points Express by Sheraton targets value-conscious consumers with simplicity and value in both the design and guest experience. Rajeev Menon, President, Marriott International, Asia Pacific excluding China, said, "Our goal is to be everywhere our guests want us to be, with the right property in the right location, at the right price point.” This new midscale brand is part of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty platform, which has over 200 million global members. 

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Marriott International has inked a rebranding deal with Japan’s HMI Hotel Group to convert seven existing HMI properties in five major Japan cities. The deal will see the hotels rebranded to Marriott Hotels and Courtyard by Marriott properties. The Marriott Hotels properties rebranded are: Grand Hotel Hamamastu to Hamamastu Marriott in Naka-ku, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture Hotel Heian no Mori Kyoto to Kyoto Marriott in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture Hotel Crown Palais Kobe to Kobe Marriott in Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture Rizzan Seapark Hotel Tancha Bay to Okinawa Marriott Rizzan Resort & Spa in Onna Village, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture The properties planned for Courtyard by Marriott are: Hotel Pearl City Kobe to Courtyard by Marriott Kobe in Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture Hotel Crown Palais Kokura to Courtyard by Marriott Kokura in Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka Prefecture Hotel Crown Palais Kitakyushu to Courtyard by Marriott Kitakyushu in Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture “We are very pleased to welcome these properties to the fast-expanding portfolio of Marriott International properties across Japan,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “Conversion continues to drive a robust growth for the company on a global scale.” These Japan hotels are located in five of the country’s most popular travel destinations, welcoming millions of visitors each year. 

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Marriott International has teamed up with Cathay Membership loyalty program, offering reciprocal perks to their respective members. They will gain access to both programs’ benefits through limited status match offer, and accelerated points earning. The strengthened partnership provides Marriott International with access to Cathay’s extensive membership base. There are 11 million Cathay members globally who can stay at nearly 8,800 Marriott Bonvoy hotels and resorts. Together, Marriott Bonvoy and Cathay loyalty program members can avail perks like hotel stay redemptions, two-way points transfer, and upgraded flight and travel package experiences. “We are committed to curating the best experiences to connect our members through the power of travel,” said Alison Yang, Marriott VP, Revenue Strategy, Loyalty & Partnerships, Distribution, Greater China. New reciprocal benefits of the partnership include a two-way points conversion between Marriott Bonvoy Points and Asia Miles. It calculates as 3 Marriott Bonvoy points to 1 Asia Mile, and 2 Asia Miles become 1 Marriott Bonvoy point. Marriott Bonvoy members can transfer their Points to Miles to redeem flight tickets and more. There is an opportunity to status match Marriott Bonvoy and Cathay membership tiers and accelerate access to more exclusive benefits. Marriott Bonvoy Platinum/Titanium/Ambassador Elite members will be matched to the Cathay Silver membership tier, subject to a limited quota. Cathay Silver/Gold/Diamond members can enjoy equivalent Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status. “Strengthening our partnership with Marriott allows Cathay members to unlock benefits even when they’re not flying. Members can enjoy more ways to earn and redeem their points and miles," said Paul Smitton, Director pf Customer Lifestyle, Cathay.

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  Antoinette Van den Berg, VP Sales & Distribution, Operations at Marriott International, provided insights into the hotel giant's expansive portfolio, spanning City hotels, Resorts, and recently acquired City Express properties. Emphasizing local engagement, Van den Berg discussed the company's commitment to integrating community experiences and flavors into their offerings. Despite challenges in certain destinations, 2023 has proven a phenomenal year, especially for the Resorts portfolio, with double-digit growth in the all-inclusive segment. Anticipating a promising 2024, the interview reflects Marriott's dedication to tailored guest experiences and continued success in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape.  

  JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy's global portfolio of more than 30 brands, today launched the "Stay in the Moment" Asia-Pacific campaign, featuring a K-drama inspired campaign video starring South Korean actor, Lee Minho. "Stay in the Moment" captures the essence of JW Marriott, which invites and empowers guests to embrace fleeting yet profoundly meaningful moments in life with inspiring surroundings, mindful experiences, culinary artistry and inspired service.     The campaign video features characters that are framed by the luxury and timeless beauty of the surroundings, which symbolize contemplation and introspection as the story unfolds. The scenes underscore the beauty of human connections, and emphasize themes of self-discovery and strong familial bonds that are forged in unforgettable moments. The visuals reflect the breath-taking natural landscapes and enriching experiences that are found in every JW Marriott hotel, which serve to replenish the mind, body and soul.   "The "Stay in the Moment" campaign focuses on the discerning luxury traveler who seeks well-being, mindfulness and profound connections－all the elements that speak to the spirit of the JW Marriott brand," said John Toomey, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer Asia Pacific (Excluding China), Marriott International. "Lee Minho's starring performance in the campaign video beautifully captures the JW Marriott experience, embodying the holistic and inspirational moments that shape our journeys and enrich our lives."   "I personally appreciate and align with the JW Marriott brand's seamless attention to people, nature and culture," said Lee Minho, South Korean actor. "The 'Stay in the Moment' philosophy by JW Marriott inspires me as an actor as well. Embracing the present moment and cherishing special memories not only provides a comforting rest but also acts as a catalyst for personal growth. Additionally, it sparks my imagination and allows me to breathe life into the characters I resonate, infusing them with more vibrancy than the script merely outlined."   JW Marriott hotels invite guests to be inspired by the principles of mindfulness, and to pause and appreciate each moment. Through many holistic experiences that originate from a heritage of soul-nourishing wellness offerings, "Stay in the Moment" packages offer guests the opportunities to wonder, to relax, to create and to connect with those who give our lives true meaning. Brand programs such as JW Garden, where lush greenery and idyllic nooks create a serene and timeless escape for guests to enjoy the multi-sensory pleasures of harvesting fresh herbs and vegetables, along with fun educational experiences for families. Family by JW also offers experiences that appeal to every generation, enabling the whole family to come together in meaningful moments. Spa by JW is a tranquil sanctuary of indulgence designed to promote complete relaxation with luxury spa treatments. Guests can also enjoy elevated in-room dining with Savor by JW, which focuses on delicious, nourishing cuisine and the pleasures of healthy eating.   Personalized experiences capture the spirit of "Stay in the Moment"   "Stay in the Moment" packages are now available at JW Marriott hotels across Asia Pacific, inviting guests to discover and explore newly-opened JW Marriott properties such as JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Goa, JW Marriott Hotel Xi'an and JW Marriott Hotel Xi'an Southwest. Other popular JW Marriott destinations with "Stay in the Moment" experiences include Mussoorie, Bangkok, Singapore, Maldives and Gold Coast. The packages include the JW Garden to Table experience at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, where guests can join the hotel's chef and herb gardeners to hand-pick fresh seasonal ingredients. In Thailand, JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok joins hands with PASAYA, a distinguished Thai brand of sustainable home textiles and lifestyle products that seamlessly blend lavish living with conscious design in the hotel's nature-inspired themed suites. JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach presents a gin & tonic pairing experience with fresh herbs harvested from the hotel's JW Garden. At JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, guests can nourish their mind, body and soul with calming aromatherapy massage in the serene overwater setting of the resort's newly-opened Spa by JW.   As part of the campaign launch, the "Stay in the Moment" video starring Lee Minho will be rolled out across various media platforms. A link to the video can be found here.

Marriott Bonvoy has formally opened the highly awaited W Sydney overlooking Sydney’s Darling Harbour. The W Sydney hotel features 588 keys, including 162 suites, four new dining and bar venues, the AWAY Spa, FIT Gym and open-air swimming pool. It offers 1,300-square-metres of event space across eight versatile rooms and the Living Room hotel lobby social space concept. “W Sydney marks our W Hotels brand’s triumphant return to Sydney, a long-awaited addition to our Australia hotel portfolio,” said George Fleck, Global Brand Leader of W Hotels. “W Sydney will cultivate a new cultural and social hub in the vibrant Darling Harbour precinct.” The Sydney hotel is located within The Ribbon with interiors designed by London-based Bowler James Brindley. “W Sydney reimagines luxury for a new era, creating a vibrant new scene for Sydneysiders and visitors to the city,” says Craig Seaward, hotel GM. “It’s a complete departure from the city’s traditional hotels.”

Marriott International has marked the milestone of 50 hotels open in Thailand. It comes as the Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection officially welcomed guests. Marriott expects to add a further 10 hotels by the end of 2024. "We are absolutely delighted to celebrate the 50^th hotel opening, marking a major milestone," said Jakob Helgen, Area Vice President. The company entered the Thailand market 27 years ago. It now has Thailand hotels in 15 brands located in more than 10 Thai destinations. "With the support of our associates, we will continue to redefine the hospitality landscape," Helgen added. The Ritz-Carlton brand is set to debut in Bangkok in 2024 in the upcoming One Bangkok mixed-use development. The newest Thailand hotel marks the debut of Autograph Collection Hotels. The Tribute Portfolio brand is also expected to debut in Thailand next year with the opening of Tribute Portfolio Metropole Bangkok. Other expected openings this year include two Marriott Executive Apartments in Sukhumvit 50 and 101, alongside the Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort. Additionally, the flagship Marriott Hotels brand is also set to debut in Khao Lak in 2024. Later this year, Moxy Hotels will debut with the opening of Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong while Courtyard by Marriott adds another two new hotels, one near the Suvarnabhumi International Airport and in Phuket.  

 

From seaside getaways in Phuket and the Maldives, city exploration in Tokyo and Melbourne to nature retreats in Ubud and Gifu, Marriott Bonvoy offers an unforgettable summer for holiday seekers

  With the long-awaited arrival of summer holiday, it's the perfect time for travelers to book a fun-filled break. Asia Pacific boasts a full array of bucket list adventures, whether travelers are looking to mingle in the bustling crowd of mega cities or venture to off-the-beaten-track destinations, travelers – no matter solo, group, or families traveling will children – will be able to explore the region in a way that fits their preferences.   Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 31 extraordinary hotel brands boasts hotels with various scenic backdrops, ranging from the turquoise waters of the Maldives to the steep ravines of Ubud and the energetic atmosphere of Bangkok, travelers are welcome to select the perfect summer destination to add to their bucket list in 2023.   SEASIDE RESORTS Nothing says "summer holiday" more than images of sunny afternoons on the shore, salty swims in bright blue waters, and swanky sunset cocktails. Asia Pacific has no shortages of Instagram-worthy beaches, presenting as idyllic corners of the globe for travelers to discover. Here, Marriott Bonvoy details some of the best ways to visit and stay at Asia Pacific's best seaside destinations.   Where to stay?   Maldives: Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa   Situated on the southern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll, a 35-minute seaplane journey away from Malé International Airport, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is enveloped by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs with vibrant marine life. Curious travelers are invited to unlock the heart of the destination through the resort's Marine Master program, part of Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy, where guests can plant their own coral frame with the guidance of the resident marine biologist and learn about the environmental effects of climate change. True to the brand's spirit of savouring the good life, the resort offers "Chase Endless Summer" package for travelers to enjoy complimentary offerings including buffet breakfast and dinner at Turquoise, daily water sports activity, and discounted spa treatments at Explore Spa.   Beihai: Sheraton Beihai Resort   A quaint twist to the usual seaside getaways – recently opened in May this year, Sheraton Beihai Resort is situated in Guantouling National Forest Park at the western end of downtown Beihai with commanding views over both mountain and sea. Once a departure port on the Maritime Silk Road, Beihai's natural seaside setting and unique cultures of the Tanka fishing villages make it an up-and-coming holiday destination. The resort features Sheraton's reimagined design, setting to be a community hub for travelers and local guests alike through brand signatures such as the Community Table, a space where travelers can connect with each other and be energized, and elevated dining outlets such as &More that offers an invigorating coffee program.   CITY EXPLORATION   For travelers looking for a summer vacation outside of the well-traversed seaside getaways, Asia boasts an impressive array of vibrant metropolitan areas with exciting experiences, including traditional summer festivals in Tokyo, rich historical sites in Xi'an, and endless culinary offerings in Bangkok for travelers to indulge to the fullest extent. Here, Marriott Bonvoy presents the best places to stay at when exploring some of the most alluring cities in the region.   Where to Stay?   Bangkok: Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection   Bangkok, a city of gleaming monasteries, soaring skyscrapers and clusters of village-style houses, is the gateway to modern Thailand, as well as one of the most coveted destinations for travelers of all ages to explore. Thong Lor district is one of the city's best spots to experience an eclectic mix of cuisine, culture, and entertainment, and Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection, Autograph Collection Hotels' upcoming entry and brand debut in Thailand, is nestled just moments away in a tree-lined avenue. Set to open in early September, through the hotel's exterior as well as 56 guestrooms and suites, guests can experience the rich contrasts of the designs: Elegant, timber-clad exterior juxtaposes with the natural surroundings of this leafy avenue, while the interiors feature designs of classic meets contemporary.   Melbourne: Le Méridien Melbourne   A recent addition to Australia's dynamic metropolis, Le Méridien Melbourne opened its doors in March this year, marking the brand's debut to the region.  Located on a prime location overlooking Parliament House, the hotel invites travelers to savour the moment and connect with Melbourne's famed art, culture, and culinary scene. Travelers will be delighted at the hotel's Art Deco façade with chic mid-century interiors, and marvel at the large-scale sculptural installation in the lobby that is part of Le Méridien's global Unlock Art programme, which includes a self-guided walking tour and complimentary art gallery access. From July onwards, the hotel also celebrates the return of its signature Au Soleil programme with the debut of its Rosé Sorbet, offering travelers the opportunity to soak up the sun and enjoy the moment with this delectable summer treat.   NATURE RETREATS   For those seeking to trade the glare of the streetlights for the glow of the moon or the chatter of commuters for the sounds of the wild, nature retreats will be ideal in providing refuge and total rejuvenation. Below are some of the best places to experience nature's splendor with Marriott Bonvoy.   Where to Stay?   Bali: The Westin Ubud Resort & Spa   Earning its title as Bali's art and culture center, Ubud is the ultimate place to enjoy rich Balinese culture, local craft scene, and calming lush forests or rice terraces. True to the destination's devotion to wellness and restoration, The Westin Ubud Resort & Spa invites guests and their families to experience a sense of well-being through the resort's signature touchpoints – from the delights of Heavenly Spa, lifestyle programs such as on-site Balinese Praying Ritual and Tri Mandala Meditation at the riverside Wellness Pavilion, and the 24-hour WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio. Local Balinese recipes are also elevated into healthy cuisine to reflect the brand's Eat Well pillar, available in the all-day dining restaurant Tabia and Mediterranean restaurant Tall Trees.   Japan: Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki Hotels   As one looks beyond Japan's bustling metropolis of Tokyo and Osaka, they will find sprawling countryside with hidden cultural and historical gems waiting to be discovered. First announced in 2018, Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki aims to connect curious travelers with adventure far beyond the city's bustling rhythms, while still being in accessible reach with proximity to roadside stations nationwide. From the cool summers and brilliant winters of Hokkaido to the traditional mountainous villages of Gifu and the subtropical climate of Kagoshima prefecture, Fairfield by Marriott welcomes travelers in with warm hospitality and all the modern comforts one might need for a good night's sleep, serving as the perfect bases for travelers to explore Japan's breathtaking World Heritage sites and culinary delights.

Marriott International and MGM Resorts International have joined hands in a long-term strategic licensing agreement. It sees the creation of MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy, which will launch in October 2023. It covers 17 MGM resorts, representing more than 40,000 rooms in Las Vegas and other US cities. Select MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy resorts will be available for booking via Marriott including Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app. All properties are expected to be available to book by the end of the year. These MGM resorts will continue to be available on MGM Resorts’ booking channels. “This historic, long-term agreement brings together two of the most trusted and iconic brands,” said Bill Hornbuckle, President MGM Resorts. “We’ve seen first-hand the strong demand from Marriott International customers through our existing relationship at The Cosmopolitan.” The agreement will also benefit members of both companies’ loyalty programs. Members of MGM Rewards will be eligible to link accounts with Marriott Bonvoy and receive select member benefits. Members of Marriott Bonvoy will be able to earn and redeem points for stays at all MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy properties. Eight MGM resorts in Las Vegas will join the Collection. These are Vdara Hotel & Spa, MGM Grand, NoMad Las Vegas, The Signature at MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, New York-New York, Luxor Hotel and Casino, and Excalibur. Five MGM Resorts in other. locations will also join: Borgata Atlantic City, Beau Rivage in Biloxi, MS, MGM Grand Detroit, MGM National Harbor, MD, and MGM Springfield, MA. Marriott also entered into a loyalty marketing agreement with BetMGM, the online gaming and sports betting joint venture; Marriott Bonvoy becomes BetMGM’s exclusive hospitality loyalty program partner in North America.