Accor makes the much-awaited announcement; Raffles comes to India

The much-awaited announcement has finally been made. Accor has announced the launch of its iconic ultra-luxury brand – Raffles – in India. Since joining the Accor network in 2015, the brand has undergone a renaissance, with a strong pipeline that will see the portfolio double in the next few years.

India’s state of Rajasthan, especially Jaipur forms part of the most visited tourist circuit of The Golden Triangle, which comprises New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that both the hotels will be in Rajasthan. Apart from Jaipur, the second hotel has been earmarked in Udaipur – which is a natural extension, given its proximity to the pink city.

For the well-travelled, both Rajasthan and Raffles represent a perfect confluence of adventure, luxury, gastronomy and discovery.

Commenting on this historic occasion, Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO Accor, said: “It is with immense pride that we announce the arrival of the Raffles brand in India, a hallmark of luxury and sublime service in a country that is famous for delivering luxury at the highest level. With our strategic partners, we look forward to providing an oasis of calm and charm in two of the most incredible destinations in India. We thank Ratankant Sharma and our partners for entrusting us with these landmark properties and we look forward to delivering the distinctive Raffles experience to travellers in India. We also thank Mr Sharma for bringing the first Fairmont to India in Jaipur and extending this partnership to the Raffles brand.”

“Today’s signing of the Raffles Jaipur and Raffles Udaipur marks a historic moment for Accor in India and certainly for tourism in India,” said Jean-Michel Casse’, Chief Operating Officer (COO) – India and South Asia, Accor. “We are seeing increasing demand for luxury travel in India and are looking forward to expanding Accor’s globally renowned portfolio of luxury brands in this incredible country. The addition of the iconic Raffles brand signals a new era for our group.”

 Also commenting on this occasion, Ratankant Sharma, said, “Bringing the Raffles brand, which is synonymous with excellence, taste and luxury, to India is a perfect fit for our vision. The opening of Raffles Udaipur and Raffles Jaipur is a key moment in our strategic growth in India and represents a new era of highly differentiated ultra-luxury experiences for both destinations.”

About Raffles Udaipur

The Raffles Udaipur is set on a 21-acre private island in the midst of Udai Sagar Lake, one of the five prominent lakes of Udaipur. The 101 lake-facing rooms are surrounded by spectacular hill scenery, with views of the 400-year-old temple in the background. The suites additionally boast private pools. It will provide a rare and authentic experience of one of India’s most scenic destinations. Expected to open by mid-2020, the Raffles Udaipur is truly set to be an oasis for the well-travelled, at a short 15-20 minutes’ drive from the Udaipur Maharana Pratap Airport, followed by a short boat ride.

About Raffles Jaipur

The Raffles Jaipur is being built at Kukas in the city of Jaipur as a set of secluded private residences and courtyards adjacent to the larger hotel complex that presently houses the Fairmont Jaipur. The development is planned as a discreet destination for guests to “be themselves”. The hotel is anticipated to commence operations in 2022 and is located close to key tourist destinations in Jaipur including the Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort and Jal Mahal complexes.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *