Hotel, Organisations & Operators,

Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, in partnership with Erth Real Estate Company, today announced that it will open three new hotels in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as part of a new master planned development project.The forthcoming luxury hospitality community will include a 230-key Raffles hotel, a 250-key Sofitel Serviced Residence, and a 60-villa MGallery resort, all set to open by 2027. The multi-faceted community will also include office towers, residential towers, and retail space, all built around a centrally located garden area.
Erth Real Estate Company, the premium real estate developer across Saudi Arabia, is the owner and developer of the 4.2 billion Saudi Riyal mixed-use project at Al Yasmin District and has signed with Accor for hotel management within the two towers of this development. Accor will provide hotel management services and support from several brands within its world-leading brand portfolio.
Raffles Riyadh and Sofitel Extended Stay at Al Yasmin District, both located at King Fahad Road intersecting with King Salman Road and Al Olaya Street, will reside within sparkling glass, 34-storey and 42-storey towers – creating an iconic presence in the city’s skyline. The towers, which will enjoy convenient 18-minute access to King Khalid International Airport by car, will have a clear view of KAFD, New Murabba, Avenues Mall, SAB Tower and Tamkeen Tower. Ample green space, including lush gardens, will also surround both buildings. MGallery Resort Riyadh, only 20 minutes away from Riyadh city center, will be developed in the Al Waseel district, where some luxury private resorts are located, and will be situated in a wadi surrounded by date farms. With 60 low-rise villas, it will be an ideal attraction for families and guests looking for a break from the busy city center and immersion into a vibrant neighborhood of Riyadh.
Speaking at the signing event, Saud Abdullah Al Rajhi, the Group Managing Director of Erth Real Estate stated: “The company’s vision of becoming a preferred real estate brand in Saudi Arabia is fully aligned with leading first-class projects that meet market expectations and unleash the economic potential of the Kingdom. Therefore, Erth is pleased to expand its relationship with Accor by adding new assets to our hospitality portfolio.”
“As part of Accor’s ultra-luxury division, Raffles is honored to soon open a second destination in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, particularly in Riyadh,” said Omer Acar, CEO Raffles & Orient Express. “As a brand that is highly selective of the destinations where we choose to develop, we are confident that vibrance and growth surrounding the city of Riyadh is the perfect location to offer our guests the true Raffles experience – one that is celebrated, authentic, and renowned for its legendary service. We look forward to welcoming new guests and those returning as family to Raffles Riyadh.”ADVERTISEMENT“On behalf of both the Sofitel and MGallery brands, we are delighted to contribute to a diverse community of luxury hospitality choices for business and leisure visitors, particularly those who wish to settle in and stay a little longer to enjoy the dynamic energy of the cosmopolitan city of Riyadh,” said Maud Bailly, CEO Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems. “As an ambassador of French culture around the world, Sofitel will bring the art-de-vivre that has been so successful at our two other Sofitel destinations in the Kingdom. Guests will also have the chance to discover the culture and a vibrant neighbourhood at the new MGallery, with the property providing sumptuous resort style villas and the luxury of feeling of a home away from home.”
Erth’s new luxury hotels in Riyadh are being imagined by some of the world’s top designers. The lead architect is Foster + Partners, a global studio for sustainable architecture, urbanism, engineering, and design, founded by Norman Foster in 1967. With offices across the world, the practice works as a single entity that is both ethnically and culturally diverse. Additional consultants will provide expertise on spa, art, technology, and food & beverage.
Erth’s relationship with Accor started a few years ago with a prestigious development in the region – Raffles Hotel and Residences Jeddah – which consists of two towers. In one tower, a world-class luxury hotel; in the other, a stunning set of exclusive private residences, unlike anything Jeddah has known before, set against a rich backdrop of Hejazi culture and tradition.
Since the announcement of Saudi Arabia Vision 2030, Erth and Accor have both played a key role in the development of tourism through several existing and upcoming projects in key locations across the Kingdom. Accor has been present in Saudi Arabia for more than 20 years and has contributed to the development of the Holy destination of Makkah, counting over 9,000 rooms with direct access to the Haram.
Within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Accor currently operates 42 properties (16,000+ rooms) and has a robust development pipeline of 34 properties which will add approximately 7,000 rooms to the Group’s portfolio by 2027. Properties expected to arrive in the Kingdom in 2023 include the much-anticipated Raffles Jeddah, Fairmont Ramla Serviced Residences Riyadh, Sofitel Riyadh, Movenpick Waad Al Shamal-Turaif and Novotel Makkah Thakher City Residences. Among its Saudi Arabia portfolio, Accor is leading the way with positive hospitality experiences and environmentally sound development and operational practices. The new master-planned community in Riyadh will be developed with ethical, social, and environmental engagement that will contribute to a healthier environment while delivering value to its stakeholders, including the guests of the three new luxury hotels.

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Rotana announced its ambitious pipeline across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) 2023, signing four “Edge by Rotana” and one “Rayhaan by Rotana” property in partnership with Memar Development & Investment, a leading real estate development company specialized in the hospitality development guided by the motto “Developing to enhance life”.
Guy Hutchinson, President & CEO of Rotana, and Eng. Abdulaziz Al Meqren, CEO of Memar Development & Investment, were both present at the official signing of the agreement at FHS’s Global Stage on Tuesday, 9 May 2023.
Commenting on the partnership, Hutchinson said: “Saudi Arabia presents one of the fastest-growing markets in the region, increasingly establishing itself as a leading tourist destination. These new properties located in the heart of Riyadh include a mix of hotels and serviced apartments, offering our guests diverse options to suit their varying needs. We are excited to partner with Memar Development & Investment on this project as we work together to deliver on Rotana’s singular brand promise of delivering ‘Treasured Time’ for all our guests.”
The five new Riyadh properties will add 618 keys to Rotana’s growing portfolio. This is in line with the group’s target of adding triple the number of rooms it currently runs in the Kingdom to 6,000 over the next four years. The new Edge by Rotana properties will be interconnected, operating in synergy to ensure efficient workflow and deliver the ultimate guest experience. The properties will offer guests a range of dining options as well as recreational facilities such as pools, gyms, treatment rooms and more.
Eng. Abdulaziz Al Meqren, CEO of Memar Development & Investment added “We are pleased to sign today with a leading hospitality brand with regional roots such as Rotana. This new development will provide visitors with various experiences gathered in one place. With a variety of dining and recreation facilities being developed across all five properties, residents and visitors of Riyadh will soon have a new place to discover in the city,”ADVERTISEMENTMakram El Zyr, Corporate Vice President – Development for Rotana added: “launched at ATM 2022, Edge by Rotana has seen tremendous development and is on track to reach its target of operating 30 Edge by Rotana properties across the region by 2027. Rotana has, to date, successfully opened three Edge by Rotana-managed hotels in the UAE – Arabian Park and Park Apartments in November 2022, and Damac Hills 2 in February 2023.”

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Conservation-focused luxury travel company &Beyond has announced that one of its most iconic lodges, Phinda Forest Lodge, situated in &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, is due to undergo an extensive rebuild. The property, which was lauded as one of the first true eco-lodges at the time of its construction, will be reimagined within the context of the contemporary luxury safari, while retaining subtle references to its original ‘Zulu-zen’ décor with a new elegant and minimalist interior design.
“&Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge was originally built in the early 1990s,” recalls Kevin Pretorius, &Beyond Managing Director for South Africa Lodges. “Back then, the lodge’s innovative and progressive design made a huge statement on sustainability, as it was sensitively constructed within the ancient sand forest with minimum impact at the heart of the project.”Pretorius continues, “Phinda, which started as an amalgamation of denuded farmlands in 1991, has grown into an extensive conservancy at the cutting edge of conservation, a modern example of Care of the Land, Wildlife and People. What was only our second owned and operated lodge following the birth of the company at &Beyond Phinda will now be reborn.”

Interior designers Fox Browne Creative, who have previously worked on the refurbishments of the other five lodges on the reserve, are partnering with architectural designer Jack Alexander to reimagine and bring to life the new Phinda Forest Lodge in a design that will offer past guests the comfort and familiarity of one of their most loved lodges while also providing exciting improvements in room flow and functionality. Nestled inside 1 000 hectares (2 471 acres) of Africa’s last remaining dry sand forest in the north of &Beyond Phinda, the lodge embodies a commitment to minimise the impact on the environment. Its iconic rooms were built in perfect harmony with the existing flow of the forest and their design has stood the test of time. As such, the existing room structures will be used to redefine the new lodge in a way that will continue the legacy with which it was originally built.
“The sand forest is one of Phinda’s most distinctive and delicate habitats. It occurs on deep sands, the leftover fossilised dunes of an earlier coastline,” explains Pretorius. Many of the plant species encountered in sand forest can be found nowhere else on earth. Normally shy mammals such as the red duiker, suni and Tonga red squirrel are often encountered in sand forest, and the area is also rich in birds, with several species restricted solely to this habitat.Due to the sensitivity of the habitat, the lodge refurbishment will utilise existing lodge and room structures to minimise impact associated with an entire rebuild, while also updating the architectural design and taking care not to detract from the essence of the lodge design and its original ‘Zulu-zen’ concept. Throughout the rooms and main guest areas, the interiors will be reimagined with new fixtures and finishes drawing inspiration from the surrounding sand forest, blending aspects of Japanese minimalism with an ode to local culture.ADVERTISEMENT
Elements of the natural forest and Zulu culture will be brought into the room through the use of tactile textures and natural materials such as woven matting, textured grass cloth wallpaper, and hardwood floors, with natural stone tiling in the bathrooms. The intention is to reconfigure the room within the existing structure, creating a more comfortable layout that better utilises the existing space, while maximising the connection to the forest through wide open views.Phinda Forest Lodge has always provided &Beyond guests with an exclusive, private experience immersed in the sand forest, and this will be enhanced through the redirection and reduction of pathways to and from the rooms. In order to assist with the rehabilitation of the old pathways, we have established a nursery which will cultivate sand forest tree species to be planted along the trails.
Major structural additions include a family suite, a library and lounge, a walkway with central fire pit linking the main area to the library, a newly reshaped and tiered pool, and significant upgrades to the main dining and bar areas. In keeping with the other lodges in &Beyond’s portfolio, the family suite will comprise a contemporary designed and decorated standard suite linked to a newly built second bedroom, which can be accessed privately or through an additional linked passageway.A new purpose-built building will contain the library and sitting room, centred around a reading table and double-sided fireplace with surrounding areas for guests to relax. Timber sliding doors will lead to an outdoor deck with its own shaded spaces, nestled among the trees with views of patches of forest and the wetland areas. The interior of the library and sitting room will combine elements of traditional Zulu culture with cosy minimalist elegance. A wooden walkway will seamlessly connect the library to a new pool area, which will include a reshaped and tiered swimming pool designed to maximize the scenic setting and timeless beauty of the sand forest. An all-new massage sala will also be constructed next to the pool.

Other innovative additions will include a central fire pit that will be located between the library and main area, cast out toward the wetland and offering guests the opportunity to indulge in a fireside chat before and after dinner.“We are excited about the refurbishment of one of our most loved lodges, and we hope to welcome guests back to Phinda Forest Lodge as of 1 December 2023,” says Pretorius.“Phinda was where &Beyond’s vision and impact model were born,” he recalls. “Over the years, we have curated a set of unique, immersive experiences born out of this ethos, which guests at Phinda Forest Lodge will continue to have access to. These include experiences focused on the conservation of species such as white and black rhinoceros, as well as Temminck’s ground pangolin, and a unique Zulu Village Tour which allows guests to ethically immerse themselves in traditional Zulu culture.”
Phinda is also uniquely positioned to offer other extraordinary adventure activities like diving or ocean safaris at nearby Sodwana Bay. Depending on the season, guests may also be able to enjoy expeditions to admire turtles nesting along the Indian Ocean coastline.With such a wealth and diversity of unique offerings, combined with the newly refurbished Phinda Forest Lodge, &Beyond are excited to continue bringing their guests experiences that go beyond the expectation of average luxury to leave our world a better place

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Four Seasons, leader in luxury hospitality and branded residential, together with Azure Resorts & Hotels and Luxus Developments, announce a new standalone residential project in Las Vegas that will welcome residents home in 2026.Four Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas will be set within the MacDonald Highlands community, a private 11-acre (4.5 hectare) oasis in Henderson, Nevada and minutes from the world-class entertainment, fine dining and upscale shopping of Las Vegas. The new project will comprise 171 high-rise residences with panoramic views and six standalone, family-style villas, offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle with contemporary desert design, resort-inspired amenities and fully-serviced luxury living marked by Four Seasons thoughtful and genuine care.
“We are honoured to be partnering with the legendary Four Seasons brand, known for its highly personalized service and ability to create exceptional lifestyle experiences for guests and residents alike. From the moment of arrival, owners will be greeted by elegant décor, unparalleled hospitality, and world-class amenities, attracting buyers who desire a social and active yet private community with exclusively curated experiences at their fingertips,” says Jim Reilly, President of Azure Resorts & Hotels.
“Las Vegas has always been synonymous with entertainment and excitement and now it is rapidly evolving and maturing in the quality and sophistication of its product offering. We’re excited to introduce a one-of-its-kind offering to the city, bringing an elevated lifestyle experience like never before,” adds Jonathan Lawrence, Managing Partner of Luxus Developments.
Leader in branded residential since 1985, Four Seasons continues to expand its global portfolio of luxury homes in the world’s most sought-after destinations. The company’s growing collection of standalone Private Residences offer unmatched privacy, alongside the renowned personalized service and property management expertise that homeowners can expect when living with Four Seasons.
“Our standalone residential offerings present a unique opportunity to live with Four Seasons in destinations that are appealing to luxury homeowners, outside the walls of our hotels and resorts, while still delivering the exceptional care and service to residents that is core to our brand,” says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development and Portfolio Management, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “This new project in Las Vegas is the perfect addition to our standalone portfolio, catering to discerning homeowners in this important destination, and with partners who share our vision for creating an unparalleled luxury lifestyle experience in the market.”ADVERTISEMENTAbout Four Seasons Private Residences Las VegasFour Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas will be the first residential tower in Henderson and will be designed by architectural visionaries Wimberly Allison Tong & Goo (WATG). The contemporary residences will range from 2,300 to 7,300 interior square feet (213 to 678 square metres) and 500 to 5,000 exterior square feet (46 to 464 square metres), offering expansive indoor and outdoor living space with sweeping views of the Las Vegas Strip and McCullough mountain range. Residences will feature thoughtful, turnkey touchpoints including semi-private elevators, private garages, and fully-furnished interiors. Wimberly Interiors selected superior designer finishes and fixtures with a rich palette of options, including epicurean kitchens and spa-inspired bathrooms. Each residence will offer customizable terraces equipped with outdoor kitchens, social gathering spaces and dining areas, extending owners’ seamless indoor-outdoor living and style.
The new luxury residences will also feature a signature restaurant and wine bar, Noble Heights, for residents and locals to enjoy everyday dining, special occasions and much more right at their doorstep. Curated by hospitality industry veterans Elizabeth Blau and Chef Kim Canteenwalla of Blau + Associates (and Honey Salt and Buddy V’s Ristorante in Las Vegas and Crown Block Dallas), Noble Heights will anchor the community with an incomparable culinary offering complemented by unobstructed views, al fresco dining options and a culinary experience featuring ranch, farm and sea-centric cuisine alongside an elevated selection of cocktails.
Led by a Director of Residences and a dedicated Four Seasons team, residents will enjoy a service-rich environment with premier amenities such as private chef services, private wine cellars, multi-level resort-style pools, cabanas, an on-site event lawn, catering services, a pet spa, auto spa, community boardroom, library, screening room, and myriad wellness amenities including a full-service gym and spa with a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, lap pool, multiple private treatment rooms and personal training offerings. Overseeing the complete residential experience as the ongoing property managers, Four Seasons will ensure that residents and their homes are cared for with the same quality and service excellence for which the brand is renowned.
Residents will also have ease of access to surrounding scenic walking and biking trails, two pickleball courts, a virtual golf simulator within the MacDonald Highlands community as well as access to Dragon Ridge Country Club, the private golf, swim and tennis club.
Four Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas is now accepting ownership inquiries, with homes starting from USD 3 million. For more information, visit www.lasvegasprivateresidences.com or contact the Four Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas Real Estate Discovery Studio at [email protected] | (702) 630-6000.

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One of the most coveted island destinations on the planet, the Maldives is considered by many to be the ultimate luxury wanderlust experience. This picturesque archipelago boasts bright white sands, warm calm waters and a standard of hospitality that is second to none. Now, having achieved worldwide recognition as a preeminent tropical paradise, the Maldives is looking toward the future with an eye on longevity and sustainability, making the destination a natural fit for the unique approach to luxury lifestyle offered by Rosewood Hotels & Resorts®. Rosewood Ranfaru, opening on the islands in 2027, is the latest development in the discerning brand’s thoughtful growth pipeline. The resort will reflect Rosewood’s guiding A Sense of Place® philosophy through a highly curated experience that emphasizes privacy, luxury, and a connection to the natural habitat.
Stretched across a striking chain of private islands around a pristine lagoon in the South Male Atoll, Rosewood Ranfaru will be situated less than an hour away from Velana International Airport in Male. From touchdown to toes in the sand, guests will be able to make the journey to the resort via either a 35-minute yacht ride or a ten-minute seaplane hop. Both experiences will exude the same level of luxury that awaits on the property’s shores. Upon arrival to the resort, travelers will be met with endless opportunity to embark on truly restorative getaways, all surrounded by stunning views of the world’s most beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Developed by Estithmar Holding, this project represents the next generation of Maldives tourism and elevates the overall luxury offerings available in this sublime corner of the globe.
“The Maldives has its own mystique and allure,” says Radha Arora, President of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. “Given its well-earned reputation as a haven for discerning travelers, we are excited to bring our unique brand of lifestyle and hospitality to this chain of islands. We are confident that through our commitment to immersive amenities, world-class design, and high-touch service, Rosewood will be able to offer the next iteration of Maldivian paradise.”
Rosewood Ranfaru will offer approximately 120 beachfront and overwater villas, ranging in size from one- to five-bedrooms, all with private pools and a select number located on private islands. In true Rosewood fashion, unsurpassed service and amenities will be central to the guest experience, including a Rosewood Explorer’s Club to spark discovery and inspire imagination among the youngest visitors. At the heart of the property will lie several specialty restaurants, a beach club, and an Asaya® well-being facility and fitness center, together offering a holistic wellness escape. A true leisure oasis, Rosewood Ranfaru will also feature numerous swimming pools, both for adults and families; paddle courts, and an array of water sports that will allow guests to fully explore the peaceful and crystal-clear waters of the encircling lagoon.
“I am delighted to announce our latest investment in the Maldives, a destination that offers unparalleled beauty and a vibrant culture, making it one of the most attractive tourist spots in the world,” says Moutaz AlKhayyat, Chairman of Estithmar Holding. “We believe that the Maldives is an ideal location for investment and tourism, and it continues to attract visitors and investors from around the world with its friendly atmosphere and supportive government policies. Our new resort development aligns perfectly with our company’s vision and growth plans, and we are excited about the prospect of expanding our portfolio of luxury travel destinations.”ADVERTISEMENTRosewood Ranfaru’s world-class team of associates will leverage their rich understanding of the destination to create a highly curated menu of on- and off-property experiences designed to truly immerse guests into their surroundings. Their guiding mission will be to showcase the undiscovered sides of this island paradise.

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Sleep Inn Exterior Prototype.
Sleep Inn, a leading new construction midscale brand from Choice Hotels International, Inc. known for its stylish, nature-inspired design and cost-effective operating model, is getting a new look following the debut of the brand’s next-generation prototype, expected to be completed and rolled out by the end of 2023.Announced during Choice Hotels’ 67th Annual Convention to provide developers with a sneak-peek of what they can expect from the modern, design-forward prototype, the new hotel option underscores the company’s’ commitment to continually innovating new products that resonate with travelers – and owners – of today and tomorrow.“No one is more intentional in their approach to design and development than Choice Hotels. We make sure that when we introduce a new concept, it not only stands the test of time but helps deliver noticeable results to our owners’ bottom lines and guest satisfaction scores, and the next generation of Sleep Inn is no exception,” said David Pepper, chief development officer, Choice Hotels. “The new look builds on the strong value proposition developers expect from Sleep Inn to maintain the segment’s lowest build and operating costs, while honing in on the brand’s inviting, wellness-focused elements that help modern travelers get a great night’s rest. It’s the perfect fit for growth-minded owners looking to seize opportunities in the popular midscale segment with a product proven to appeal to guests’ needs and senses.”
The new construction prototype was developed to be cost-neutral for prospective developers, and in early testing increased guests’ likeliness to stay with the brand by an average of 25%. Underscoring its appeal to owners and guests alike, the new design package will continue to feature the Sleep Inn brand’s key hallmarks, such as each property’s signature exterior purple tower and soothing, nature-inspired design, while incorporating several additional signature amenities to enhance guests’ stay experience, including:
Expanded wellness offerings, including water refill stations and fitness centers newly equipped with kettlebells, exercise bands, yoga mats and designated stretching areas. Guests checking in during the evening can now also take advantage of the brand’s new pilot offering at select properties, the NightFood Cookie, a free snack packed with protein, fiber and less sugar, so it won’t keep travelers up at night like a traditional dessert. In addition, Sleep Inn recently teamed with AllTrails, the world’s largest digital guidebook for outdoor activities, to curate a list of nearby hiking trails at participating hotels for guests.  Modernized guestrooms, featuring increased functional spaces, light dimming and smart thermostat capabilities, as well as soothing colors, regional artwork, linens and furnishings, designed to appeal to all five senses for a better night’s rest and relaxing stay.Stylishly designed open and airy lobbies, with tall windows to allow in more natural light and signature murals to keep within the nature theme.New-and-improved breakfast areas with the ability to be zoned into three distinct areas to suit guests’ needs, including a game room, TV room and flexible workspace.Designated outdoor spaces to enhance guests’ ability to connect with nature throughout every touchpoint.“Midscale travelers want convenient, stylish accommodations without sacrificing value and access to modern amenities while on the road, which is why Sleep Inn has remained a guest favorite since we debuted the Designed to Dream prototype more than 13 years ago,” said Cathy Hartman, vice president, brand strategy, Choice Hotels. “This evolved look and feel stays true to the brand’s founding philosophy by taking inspiration from nature to help guests relax, recharge and reconnect with what matters most. We also look forward to delighting guests with a suite of new wellness offerings to elevate and differentiate their travel experience.”
There are currently more than 530 Sleep Inn hotels open or in the pipeline across the U.S. For more information and updates on Sleep Inn’s new prototype, visit choicehotelsdevelopment.com/brands/sleepinn. 
Sleep Inn® Dream Better Here®Every Sleep Inn hotel offers a simply stylish stay that’s designed to help our guests Dream Better Here. You’ll find fresh, nature-inspired design elements that are modern but timeless, that create a relaxed and serene environment. A new-construction brand, every Sleep Inn hotel is built with a specific vision in mind—to be a sanctuary for travelers as well as an efficient property to build, operate, and maintain. Franchised by global lodging leader Choice Hotels, Sleep Inn properties boast strong product consistency and an established presence in the midscale hotel segment with more than 530 Sleep Inn properties open or in the pipeline worldwide. All Sleep Inn hotels include free Wi-Fi, complimentary hot and cold breakfast options, a swimming pool and/or fitness center. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com/sleep-inn.ADVERTISEMENT

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Banyan Tree Group, one of the world’s leading multi-branded hospitality groups, is set to debut in Europe with the upcoming Banyan Tree Varko Bay. The new luxury resort to be developed on the Varko Peninsula in Pogonia, Aitoloakarnania, is the result of the successful collaboration between Banyan Tree and the French hospitality group, Accor. Targeting to open in 2026, the five-star resort will consist of approximately 116 villas and 43 branded residences, seamlessly embedded into the stunning coastal surroundings of the Varko Peninsula in Pogonia.
Applying Banyan Tree’s pioneering expertise across the all-pool villa concept, the resort aims to offer a unique sense of place through tranquil, wellbeing-centred accommodations, backdropped by unforgettable views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding islands of Lefkada, Meganisi and Skorpios, as well as luxurious facilities for rejuvenation of both mind and body. This includes the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, a water sports center, several state-of-the-art venues for meetings and events, a beach club, several bars and three restaurants including the signature Saffron where guests can dine on delectable Thai fare.
In keeping with Banyan Tree’s core pillar of sustainability, Banyan Tree Varko Bay will be constructed and operated with an uncompromising approach to sustainability and eco-sensitivity, immersing guests in a flourishing natural environment. Built in partnership with the award-winning Greek Elastic Architects, the resort aims to be the first in Europe to achieve LEED Gold (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification and to become a model of sustainability for the hospitality sector. Mirroring existing Banyan Tree developments, the resort will prioritise responsible water use—70% of water will be reused for irrigation, the use of renewable energy sources and the encouragement of vegetation growth. By ensuring the majority of all its hotels are covered with vegetation and developing plant-centred tropical spas, Banyan Tree creates beautiful contemporary spaces that are also friendly to the surrounding environment.
Banyan Tree Group operates over 60 hotels worldwide, with a potential pipeline of more than 50 projects by 2025. The addition of Banyan Tree Varko Bay will build on the brand’s core concepts of sustainability and wellbeing-centred luxury, while reinforcing Banyan Tree’s leadership in this highly demanding sector.

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The Cordish Companies has presented master project plans to the Louisiana Gaming Control Board for the redevelopment of Diamond Jacks Casino & Hotel in Bossier City. Cordish intends to transform the property into a world-class Live! casino resort and entertainment destination. Centrally, this includes the construction of an entirely new, first-class land-based Live! casino and the removal of the existing casino riverboat. Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana is scheduled to open in 2025.
“We’re very excited and honored to present our plans to the Louisiana Gaming Control Board and thank them for their enthusiastic support of our project,” said Joe Weinberg, Managing Partner, The Cordish Companies. “Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana will be a world-class resort destination that brings a first-class gaming, dining, entertainment and hospitality experience to the region, creates significant new jobs, and generates millions of dollars in economic benefits for the community. We look forward to working with Foundation Gaming & Entertainment, state and local officials, and the community to bring the project to fruition.”
“The development plan for the Diamond Jacks property that was presented this morning will be transformative, and we are thrilled to be a part of it,” said Greg Guida, Co-CEO of Foundation Gaming & Entertainment. “We are looking forward to finishing up the demolition that was started in February to get the property ready for the transformation to a Live! Casino & Hotel.”
The new LIVE! CASINO & HOTEL LOUISIANA, which represents an investment of $250+ million, will be a world-class gaming, dining, entertainment and hotel destination, featuring:
more than 47,000-square-feet of gaming space including 1,000+ slots and electronic table games and 30+ live action table games;an upscale 400+ room resort-style hotel;a 25,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art, multi-purpose event center for top name entertainment, meeting, conventions, non-profit and social gatherings;structured and surface parking;and 30,000-square-feet of best-in-class dining and entertainment venues including 6+ new food and beverage outlets featuring nationally acclaimed concepts Sports & Social and PBR Cowboy Bar.“The Louisiana Gaming Control Board looks forward to working with The Cordish Companies to bring a world class casino and entertainment destination to the Bossier/Shreveport market. The reputation of The Cordish Companies throughout the country to own and operate first class casinos, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment destinations is exemplary. We thank Cordish for choosing Louisiana to bring their expertise and major investment to our gaming market,” said Ronnie Johns, Chairman, Louisiana Gaming Control Board. “The Board also wants to thank Foundation Gaming for their vision in beginning this much needed process of rebuilding a closed casino property. We will be working closely with both Foundation and Cordish to make this project a reality as soon as possible to deliver a gaming and entertainment destination that Louisiana can be proud of.”ADVERTISEMENT“We are very excited to welcome The Cordish Companies team to Bossier City and look forward to working with them on this beautiful project,” said Thomas Chandler, Mayor of Bossier City, LA. “Live! Casino and Hotel Louisiana will attract millions of visitors to our city, create substantial new jobs, and generate additional significant tax revenue for our community. It’s a life changer for our region.”
In addition to fully renovating the hotel rooms and public space, Cordish plans to develop a brand new, land-based casino to replace the existing casino riverboat, as well as introduce a variety of new dining and entertainment concepts including a fine dining steakhouse and an Asian restaurant.
Among the featured outlets in the facility will be Sports & Social and PBR Cowboy Bar, two powerhouse names that are among the fastest growing concepts in the United States. The concepts are located at the front door of professional sports stadiums, high-profile entertainment and lifestyle districts, and world-class casino resort destinations across the U.S. including The Battery adjacent to Truist Park in Atlanta, GA; Ballpark Village adjacent to Busch Stadium in St. Louis, MO; Texas Live! in the heart of the Arlington Entertainment District; Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia in South Philadelphia’s Stadium District and Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland in the Baltimore/Washington Corridor.
Sports & Social, the premier sports bar and restaurant in the United States, offers guests an immersive sports entertainment atmosphere as the next best game watching experience outside of a stadium or arena. Curated by James Beard Award Nominee Chef John Suley, Sports & Social’s menu features an elevated selection from its made-from-scratch kitchen for lunch, dinner, and a can’t-miss brunch experience on the weekends. The bar’s beverage program includes creative craft cocktails, specialty drinks, and an extensive line-up of brews on tap.
The venue features multiple digital media experiences, including a state-of-the-art LED media wall, that allows guests to watch multiple games and sporting events at once. Game days at Sports & Socials feature an electric environment with elements such as emcees and DJs, live fan-cams, competitions and games, and industry-leading audio and visual displays including music and light effects. Sports & Social venues showcase a wide variety of interactive social and nostalgic arcade games throughout the space, as well as live music and special events during the week.
Born from the toughest sport on dirt, the iconic PBR Cowboy Bar lives up to its legendary namesake, Professional Bull Riders, which embodies toughness, determination, and a true spirit of independence. PBR Cowboy Bars fuse that spirit with first-class hospitality, bringing an authentic country western experience that marries an electric combination of “cowboy cool” and big-time entertainment. The venue offers high-energy music, expansive bars, private VIP tables, industry-leading sound & lighting, and a mechanical bull.
The soul of PBR Cowboy Bar comes alive through its great entertainment, the best in country music, and its rich traditions, including Freedom Friday, a night of appreciation once a month for all military personnel, veterans, first responders and public service members. PBR Cowboy Bars have welcomed some of the biggest names in country music including Luke Bryan, Old Dominion, and Justin Moore.
The development of Live! Casino & Hotel in Bossier City continues Cordish’s vast expansion across markets in the South Central and Southeast regions of the U.S. including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas where the Company currently has over $1 billion under construction adjacent to its Texas Live! development in the Arlington Entertainment District in North Texas.
For over a century, The Cordish Companies has created and managed an extraordinary portfolio of upscale mixed-use, entertainment and casino resort destinations throughout the United States. Its Live! brand, highly regarded as one of the premier entertainment brands in the country, welcomes over 55 million annual visitors to its dining, entertainment, casino, hotel, and sports-anchored entertainment districts, many of which have revitalized communities and reshaped the social and economic landscape of major markets across the country. This transformational effect has earned the Company an unprecedented seven Urban Land Institute Awards for Excellence for its urban revitalization efforts, more than any other developer in the world. For over two decades, Live! has dramatically changed the entertainment experience, creating one-of-a kind destinations that offer a curated year-round calendar of special events, premier dining venues, first-class hospitality, and the best of local, regional and national entertainment.
In gaming, The Cordish Companies has developed the most successful casino entertainment resorts in the U.S. including the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, FL; the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, FL; Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland; Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia; and Live! Casino Pittsburgh. The award-winning properties have been nationally recognized for excellence in operations, food and beverage offerings, and its Live! Rewards Loyalty Program, annually named one of the best casino loyalty programs in the country by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards.
The Cordish Companies and its affiliates also have a strong history of leadership in philanthropy, volunteerism and community service working with local non-profit organizations in all markets where it does business and becoming active members of the community. Cordish is committed to supporting the Bossier City community and its non-profit organizations through direct monetary contributions and in-kind services, acting as a convener to assist community organizations and non-profits in their fundraising efforts and volunteerism, an endemic value to the Company and its team members.
The proposed project is subject to approval by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board. More details will be shared in the coming months. New information will be posted to the website as available at www.LiveCasinoLA.com.

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