Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has unveiled the transformation of the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace following a full-scale renovation. Carrying the Sheraton Grand designation, the property truly delivers on the heritage and sophisticated design that characterises these hotels.

Hotel Banke has joined Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott International’s collection of independent hotels. The property becomes the first in Paris and the fourth in France to join the portfolio of one-of-a-kind properties around the world.

Marriott International has announced that president and chief executive, Arne Sorenson, has been diagnosed with stage two pancreatic cancer. Sorenson, who took up the role in 2012 and is just the third leader in the history of the company, will remain in his role while undergoing treatment.

Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, has opened in Limassol, Cyprus. Owned and operated by Parklane Hotels, the property marks Marriott International’s entry into Cyprus and is the first international luxury branded resort in the country.

With Marriott maintaining its position as the largest hospitality provider in the Middle East, Breaking Travel News here chats with Jerome Briet, chief development officer in the region for the company, during the Arabian Hospitality Investment Forum. He tells us which markets Marriott expects to grow, the company’s focus on the luxury sector and how the new Bonvoy loyalty scheme has been received by guests.

Ahead of the Arabian Hotel Investment Forum, Marriott International has said it expects to add 19 new properties and more than 3,000 rooms to its Middle East and Africa portfolio in 2019.