Starwood’s Aloft brand is making its debut in Saudi Arabian market with the opening of Aloft Riyadh. Designed for today’s hyper-connected, tech-forward global traveller, Aloft continues to re-define the traditional hotel experience and strengthen its footprint in the Middle East, following the success of Aloft Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement with Spotlight Group to debut its Aloft brand in Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital. Slated to open in early 2019, the new build 176-room hotel will form the centrepiece of a state-of-the-art mixed-use development located at 402 Chapel Street in South Yarra, known as “402 Chapel,” designed by international architect Tim Kobe.

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts has seen the re-opening of Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort, Algarve. Owned by United Investments Portugal, the celebrated cliff-top retreat recently emerged from an all-encompassing 18 month renovation which restored the award-winning Pine Cliffs Hotel, alongside the addition of the new contemporary Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites. Together with Pine Cliffs Residence, the complex sits at the heart of Portugal’s burgeoning luxury travel scene, further cementing the destination’s appeal to sophisticated, discerning travellers.

Breaking Travel News editor Chris O’Toole here chats with Ignace Bauwens, Complex General Manager, The St Regis Dubai, W Dubai, and The Westin Dubai Al Habtoor City, about the major Starwood investment in the United Arab Emirates and what the three new properties will bring to the destination.

Marriott International and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide have announced that at separate special stockholder meetings the stockholders of both companies approved proposals relating to Marriott’s acquisition of Starwood. The deal will create the world’s largest hotel company.

Marriott International and Starwood Hotels & Resorts is encouraging shareholders of both companies to vote in support of the proposed merger. If completed the deal will create the world’s largest hotel company, with 30 brands across all major customer segments, significant economies of scale and the most powerful loyalty program in hospitality.