Author name: vibrant colours

Hospitality, Latest News

KERZNER INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCES NEW ONE&ONLY RESORT AND PRIVATE HOMES IN COURCHEVEL 1850, FRANCE

The ultra luxury brand will introduce an extraordinary new pinnacle of high-altitude luxury in Courchevel, opening in 2030 Kerzner International Holdings Limited (“Kerzner”) is proud to announce One&Only in Courchevel, the brand’s first resort in the French Alps. Set to welcome its first guests in 2030 within the legendary Courchevel 1850, One&Only will bring its celebrated approach to ultra-luxury hospitality to one of the world’s most coveted mountain destinations. The landmark opening will redefine the experience of elevated alpine living through exceptional design, immersive wellness, vibrant culinary experiences, and a rare collection of branded residences. It also marks a significant milestone in One&Only’s alpine strategy, building a presence in the world’s most exceptional mountain destinations following the successful debut of One&Only Moonlight Basin in Montana. Through this expansion, One&Only is extending its distinctive philosophy of immersive luxury resorts into iconic alpine environments, creating extraordinary retreats rooted in adventure, wellbeing, authenticity and a deep connection to place. Recognised globally as the benchmark of alpine luxury, Courchevel occupies a singular position within the world of mountain hospitality; not simply as a ski destination, but as an international symbol of splendour, exceptional service and refined social culture. Renowned for its unparalleled ski terrain, Michelin-starred gastronomy, luxury boutiques and vibrant après-ski scene, Courchevel attracts an ultra-luxury international clientele seeking the very highest standards of hospitality and experience. The resort will rise on the site of the much-loved and historic Courcheneige Hotel, an address long woven into the story of Courchevel. Through a complete and thoughtful transformation, the property will be reimagined to reflect One&Only’s exacting standards of design, comfort and service, while honouring the heritage and enduring spirit of this iconic alpine location. Positioned at the summit of the exclusive Jardin Alpin, the resort will boast one of the most private and prestigious addresses in the destination; elevated above neighbouring properties and surrounded by panoramic mountain vistas, offering direct ski-in/ski-out access to the renowned Bellecôte slope, placing guests at the heart of Les Trois Vallées, the world’s largest ski area. Combining seclusion with effortless connectivity, One&Only will be both an intimate sanctuary and the social pulse of the destination. Designed to embody the spirit of modern alpine glamour synonymous with Courchevel itself, the resort will balance intimacy and discretion with the vibrant energy and sense of occasion that have long defined the destination’s global appeal. A Landmark Moment for One&Only “Courchevel, one of the most iconic mountain destinations in the world, has long set the standard for luxury mountain travel globally, attracting a sophisticated international audience who value not only extraordinary skiing, but exceptional dining, vibrant social experiences, impeccable service and a true sense of occasion. The arrival of One&Only marks a defining milestone not only for our brand, but for the future of luxury hospitality in the Alps, as this project has been conceived to honour and elevate the legacy through our distinctive lens” said Philippe Zuber, Chief Executive Officer, Kerzner International. “One&Only has always been about creating truly one-of-a-kind resorts that are deeply rooted in their destination, where exceptional design, genuine hospitality, transformative wellness and unforgettable experiences come together in a way that feels both personal and extraordinary. Following the tremendous success of the opening of One&Only Moonlight Basin in Montana just last year, we are proud to continue our expansion into the world’s most remarkable mountain destinations. With One&Only, we will bring a new spirit of alpine luxury to Courchevel, one that celebrates the beauty, energy and soul of the French Alps, while inviting guests to experience the rare sense of freedom that defines One&Only.” A New Benchmark for Alpine Hospitality One&Only in Courchevel will feature a mix of elegant guest rooms and expansive suites, each intentionally designed to maximise natural light, breathtaking views and a profound sense of warmth and privacy. Blending the timeless language of alpine architecture with the understated glamour synonymous with One&Only. The design will carefully frame mountain vistas, creating spaces that feel both residential and deeply connected to the landscape. Exceptional Dining and Social Experiences Dining at One&Only in Courchevel will be a defining pillar of the guest experience, with a collection of restaurants, bars and lounges curated to bring energy, sophistication and a vibrant sense of mountain living. From relaxed slope-side lunches and elegant evening dining to the most sought after après-ski destination and intimate late-night gatherings, the culinary offering will capture the spirit of Courchevel’s celebrated social scene. Signature venues throughout the resort will combine refined cuisine, stylish surroundings and the warmth of One&Only hospitality, creating a destination in their own right for guests and residents alike. Reflecting Courchevel’s status as one of the world’s leading destinations for gastronomy and alpine lifestyle, the resort’s culinary programming will be designed to appeal to a globally discerning clientele for whom dining, entertainment and social connection are as integral to the experience as the slopes themselves. A Destination for Wellness and Recovery At the heart of One&Only in Courchevel will be an expansive wellness sanctuary, designed as a serene counterpoint to the exhilaration of the mountains. Inspired by altitude, fresh alpine air, silence, snow and the restorative contrast of heat and cold, the spa will offer a deeply immersive wellbeing journey for guests and residents alike. Facilities will include a striking indoor/outdoor wet circuit, thermal experiences, private treatment spaces, beauty and recovery facilities, and dedicated areas for movement and relaxation. Tailored therapies will focus on recovery and rejuvenation, from post-ski muscle restoration and contrast bathing to mindfulness, sleep support and holistic renewals designed to recalibrate body and mind. High-performance wellness spaces will complete the offering, allowing guests to maintain performance on the slopes or simply reconnect with themselves in a spectacular natural setting. One&Only Private Homes in Courchevel Complementing the resort will be an exceptionally limited collection of One&Only Private Homes, set to become among the most desirable branded residences in the French Alps. An ownership opportunity of this calibre is seldom available in Courchevel, combining one of the world’s most renowned mountain destinations with the

Aviation, Latest News

ixigo Reimagines Travel With a Fully AI-Native App; Reinvents TARA as a Multimodal AI Assistant and Introduces Agentic Travel Flows

Reinvents TARA as the conversational core of the new ixigo app,  a multimodal AI assistant that plans, books and acts for you Introduces Trip Mode:  a built-in travel companion that consolidates post-booking information and real-time travel alerts in one place Introduces Agentic Travel Flows: AI agents that proactively assist travellers in the background in real time ixigo, India’s leading AI-powered travel platform, today unveiled the new AI-native version of its app, reimagining travel through conversational and agentic AI experiences. The launch was announced at ixigo NEXT, the company’s flagship tech launch event. Unlike traditional travel apps that layer AI features onto existing systems, ixigo’s redesigned AI-native app has been rebuilt from the ground up with AI seamlessly integrated across the entire user experience, making travel more conversational, intuitive and deeply personalised. The platform moves beyond transactional booking journeys to become an intelligent travel companion that helps users discover, decide and act in one place, offering a truly transformative trip planning and booking experience for hotels and flights. Instead of navigating multiple filters and screens, users can simply express their intent naturally through voice and let the app guide them towards the best travel outcomes. At the heart of the experience is TARA, ixigo’s multimodal AI assistant, designed to fundamentally reimagine how users interact with the new ixigo app and plan their journeys. Meet the Reinvented TARA: ixigo’s Multimodal AI Travel Assistant Reinvented as the conversational core of the ixigo app, TARA has evolved into a deeply integrated AI-native travel companion designed to make travel planning more intuitive and personalised. Users can interact with TARA naturally in English, Hindi and Hinglish through voice, text or tap, with support for more languages coming soon. Unlike traditional chatbots that function as standalone API-based interfaces, TARA is deeply embedded into the app’s core user experience. TARA is capable of handling complex, intent-driven travel queries that go far beyond conventional search flows. Instead of navigating through multiple filters and screens, users can simply express their intent naturally through voice. From detailed requests such as “show me hotels in Dubai with an infinity pool and a view of the Burj Khalifa” to planning multi-city itineraries, TARA is designed to understand intent naturally. Users don’t even need to explicitly mention travel – a prompt like “Hi TARA, I forgot my anniversary, help me!” can instantly trigger personalised getaway and stay recommendations based on a user’s travel history, preferences, family context and past booking behaviour. The AI-assistant is also context-aware, meaning it understands which page or stage of travel planning the user is in and surfaces relevant information or actions accordingly. Beyond trip discovery and planning, TARA proactively assists users even when they are not actively using the app. It continuously tracks flight schedules, manages cancellations, processes refunds and provides real-time travel information such as flight schedule, weather updates, terminal and gate details, as well as contextual recommendations such as available lounges at the departure terminal. The New Trip Mode ixigo’s AI-native app also introduces Trip Mode, a new built-in travel companion designed to assist users throughout their journey. Trip Mode consolidates all post-booking information into a single view, including boarding passes, terminal and gate details, boarding information, baggage belt updates and other real-time travel alerts. The feature also helps users prepare for every stage of their journey from planning and packing to boarding and arrival. It offers contextual assistance such as suggesting when to leave for the airport based on live traffic conditions and providing relevant travel recommendations throughout the trip. Users can also receive personalised content suggestions, including recommendations on what to watch, eat or explore during their journey. Introducing Agentic Travel Flows ixigo is introducing agentic travel experiences where AI agents perform critical travel tasks autonomously in the background. ixigo’s AI agents send boarding passes directly to travellers on WhatsApp, while also giving them the option to add them to Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, and share them with Digi Yatra for a more seamless airport experience. Boarding passes stored in digital wallets are dynamically updated in real time if there are any changes to flight timings or gate information. Beyond flights, ixigo’s AI agents also proactively assist hotel travellers by coordinating with hotels ahead of check-in to verify room readiness and help ensure a smoother stay experience. There are AI agents that also monitor flight schedules in real time, alerts users to delays or schedule changes, and helps manage refund flows in case of cancellations. Many of these agentic features are permission-based and opt-in, ensuring users remain fully in control, with more agentic flows set to be introduced in the future. A Completely Reimagined ixigo Experience The new homepage is hyper-personalised and dynamically adapts to each user’s travel history, intent and stage in the travel journey. The app also introduces an entirely new visual identity and interface, including a sleek new dark mode experience. Speaking on the launch, Rajnish Kumar, Group Co-CEO and Aloke Bajpai, Group CEO, ixigo said, “Over the last two decades, ixigo has focused on building products that reduce anxiety and bring peace of mind to travellers. With the new AI-native version of our app, we are reimagining travel as a conversational, intuitive and deeply personalised experience powered by AI. The new ixigo app has been rebuilt from the ground up as an AI-native travel platform – not by adding AI in patches, but by integrating it seamlessly across the entire experience. We believe the future of travel will be agent-led, with AI that can understand intent, take proactive actions and assist travellers seamlessly before, during, and after their trips. By combining frontier AI capabilities with two decades of travel intelligence, real-time data and deep customer understanding, we are reimagining what a travel app can truly become in the AI era. Our vision with this reinvention was to create an actionable playbook for how AI-native reinvention can be done.

Hotels, Latest News

Shangri-La Eros New Delhi Welcomes Peeyush Bhushan and Dr. Kushal Kumar Bachani in Key Leadership Roles

Appointed as Director of Food & Beverage Service and Director of Wellness respectively, both leaders will focus on elevating guest experiences across the hotel Shangri-La Eros New Delhi announces the appointment of Peeyush Bhushan as Director of Food & Beverage Service and Dr. Kushal Kumar Bachani as Director of Wellness. These appointments mark a considered step in strengthening the hotel’s leadership across key guest experience verticals, as it continues to refine its position as one of the capital’s most distinguished hospitality destinations. Peeyush brings over fifteen years of experience in food and beverage service, with a career shaped by leading global hospitality brands. Known for his command over operations and a sharp understanding of guest expectations, he has consistently delivered results that balance performance with experience. He holds a certification in General Management from XLRI Jamshedpur and is a graduate of M.S. Ramaiah College of Hotel Management. This foundation, combined with extensive on-ground exposure, channels a leadership style that is structured, focused, and outcome-driven. He is recognised for his ability to bring clarity and discipline to complex operations while building teams that deliver with confidence and consistency. His approach is rooted in strong fundamentals, driving revenue growth, enriching service standards, and ensuring that every touchpoint reflects the brand’s level of refinement. In his new role, he will oversee all aspects of food and beverage service at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi, with a clear focus on elevating the guest experience and amplifying operational excellence to further enhance the hotel’s reputation for understated luxury and impeccable service. Alongside this appointment, Dr. Kushal Kumar Bachani joins Shangri-La Eros New Delhi as Director of Wellness. A seasoned professional with over 16 years of experience in the spa and wellness industry, he brings a rich understanding of luxury hospitality shaped across leading hotel brands in India and globally. His professional journey includes roles with Marriott International, Hilton Hotels, Sheraton Grand Resort & Spa, and Lodhi Hotels, each contributing to a layered perspective on guest wellness and luxury service standards. This diverse exposure has shaped his approach to creating thoughtful, experience-led wellness programmes. Prior to joining Shangri-La Eros New Delhi, he served as Director of Spa at The Westin Hotel Hyderabad, where he led spa operations and programming with a focus on innovation, precision, and elevated guest experiences. His earlier experience also includes a stint as Wellness Consultant at Arogya Kendra Nature Cure Centre in Bhopal, which deepened his understanding of holistic health beyond the luxury hospitality framework. Academically, Dr. Bachani holds a degree from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bengaluru, along with a Postgraduate Diploma from Symbiosis International University, providing a strong foundation in wellness sciences that complements his extensive industry experience. At Shangri-La Eros New Delhi, he will focus on strengthening and evolving the hotel’s wellness offerings, aligning them with the brand’s commitment to thoughtful hospitality and refined guest experiences. Together, these appointments reflect Shangri-La Eros New Delhi’s continued focus on strengthening leadership across its core hospitality experiences. With Peeyush Bhushan leading food and beverage service and Dr. Kushal Kumar Bachani spearheading wellness, the hotel continues to build on its commitment to delivering thoughtful luxury, operational excellence, and elevated guest experiences across every touchpoint.

Blog

Air India today announced the rationalisation of its services on select international routes between June and August 2026.

The adjustments have been made in response to a combination of factors, including continued airspace restrictions over certain regions and record high jet fuel prices for international operations, which significantly impact the commercial viability of certain planned services. Please refer to this Press Release for more information: https://www.airindia.com/in/en/newsroom/press-release/Air-India-rationalises-international-route-network-through-August-2026.html

Blog, Domestic, Latest News

Over 500 Leaders From More Than 50 Countries & Territories Attend 56th Annual World Trade Centers Association Global Business Forum, Philadelphia

The four-day event marked the Forum’s return to the United States after nearly a decade, convening over 500 attendees representing 116 WTC businesses across 53 countries and territories, including over 200 business delegates, both in person and virtually. Participants included leaders from business, government, academia and international organizations, all attending with the purpose of advancing global trade, investment and collaboration. Attendees participated in panels, workshops, site visits and networking sessions, with B2B meetings facilitated through the B2Match platform connecting participants with potential partners, investors and distributors. The programming focused on driving practical business outcomes and cross-border connections. Under the theme “Historic Foundations, Future Collaborations: Cultivating New Business Frontiers,” the Forum addressed practical avenues to build meaningful global partnership in the context of current global economic conditions. Programming featured keynote addresses from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker; who highlighted Philadelphia’s economic momentum, global connectivity and growing reputation as a city open for international business and investment; Ambassador Xie Feng of the People’s Republic of China, who reinforced the role of trade and dialogue in supporting long-term economic growth and global cooperation; and Former U.S. Ambassador to Canada David Cohen who discussed the current state of global trade and the importance of connection; along with a discussion on how culture drives long-term economic strength with NBA Hall of Famer and entrepreneur Julius “Dr. J” Erving, Pennsylvania State Representative Jordan Harris, and WTCGP President and CEO Thomas Young. During the conversation, Dr. J reflected on how the discipline, resilience and pursuit of excellence found in sports can translate into business leadership, innovation and community impact. Additional sessions covered trade dynamics, investment trends and cross-sector collaboration.  Recent shifts in the global trade landscape, marked by policy changes and uneven market conditions, framed much of the discussion at this year’s Forum. Programming brought companies, investors and trade organizations into the same room to assess experiences, risks and deal opportunities. Conversations centered on practical solutions for access, timing and scalable execution. Across sessions, participants pointed to WTCA’s role as a consistent convening platform where commercial relationships are advanced even as conditions remain unpredictable. “In today’s climate, meeting in person is essential for fostering authentic connections, and the annual WTCA Global Business Forum opens the conversation to shed light on the reality of the current trade environment — where uncertainty, shifting policies and economic pressures are reshaping how business gets done across borders,” said John E. Drew, Chair of the WTCA Board of Directors. “Through this Forum, the global WTCA network provides a trusted platform for leaders to exchange perspectives, build relationships and move forward with the clarity and confidence they need as they continue advancing their regional economies. This year, we reinforced that global connection and engagement is critical in driving reliable trade, investment and long-term economic growth even in challenging times.” Philadelphia served as a strong backdrop for this year’s Forum, showcasing its economic strengths across food and agriculture, higher education, life sciences, manufacturing, and innovation and technology. Its strategic location along the Northeast Corridor and established global connections reinforced its vital role as a hub for international business and trade. “It meant a lot to host the WTCA network here in Philadelphia, especially as the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary,” said Thomas Young, President and CEO of WTCGP. “There’s a strong sense of history here, but also real momentum. Throughout the Forum, we saw people making connections that go beyond introductions — the kind that lead to business, partnerships and long-term growth. That was happening in B2B meetings, in sessions and in conversations across the city, and it’s exactly what this network is built to support — bringing people together in ways that translate into real economic opportunity.” Additionally, the WTCA Real Estate Summit returned for its second year, examining global capital flows, investment strategy and development trends, with a macro view on the state of commercial real estate and Philadelphia’s positioning as a competitive investment market. The Forum also marked the launch of the UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026, an international open innovation initiative seeking scalable solutions across sectors including blue renewable energy, sustainable food systems, green maritime transport, coastal tourism, ecosystem restoration and blue tech. The initiative introduced a growing area of focus for WTCA and underscored the increasing connection between environmental sustainability, economic opportunity and global business collaboration. Companies, startups and research institutions are invited to apply by June 19, 2026.  Building on the momentum of this year’s Forum, WTCA will continue to support its global network through ongoing programming and partnerships that strengthen international business ties and expand opportunities for members worldwide. The 57th annual WTCA GBF will take place April 4-7, 2027, hosted by World Trade Center Binh Duong New City (WTC BDNC) in Binh Duong New City, Vietnam. Next year’s Forum will underscore Vietnam’s continued rise as a hub for innovation, industry and international connectivity.

Hospitality, Latest News

P.F. Chang’s Strengthens Delhi NCR Presence with New Restaurant at World St., Worldmark, Aerocity

P.F. Chang’s, the globally celebrated American Pan-Asian dining destination, opened its newest restaurant at World St, Worldmark, Aerocity, further strengthening its presence in Delhi NCR. Renowned for its signature high-heat wok cooking, bold flavors and elevated dining experiences, the new restaurant brings P.F. Chang’s distinctive culinary offering to one of most premium and dynamic hospitality districts in the capital. From the house of Gourmet Investments Hospitality Group (GIHG) – the hospitality and dining arm of the Bharti Enterprises family who have been introducing Indian to iconic international dining brands, PF Chang’s latest restaurant marks a strategic milestone in the brand’s continued expansion across India’s leading urban markets. With its vibrant mix of corporate professionals, discerning residents, international travellers and lifestyle-led consumers, World St, at Worldmark presents a natural fit for P.F. Chang’s premium casual dining experience. The new location reinforces the brand’s focus on entering high-growth destinations that align with evolving consumer preferences for globally benchmarked food and immersive dining environments. Founded in 1993, P.F. Chang’s has spent over three decades honoring the 2,000-year-old tradition of wok cooking, bringing together high-heat techniques, scratch preparation and layered Asian flavors across 300+ restaurants in 20+ countries. Rohan Pewekar, CEO – Gourmet Investments Hospitality Group (GIHG), said: “This launch reflects our long-term vision of introducing India’s increasingly discerning diners to the world’s most compelling global flavors and dining cultures. World St. at Worldmark, Aerocity, as one of Delhi’s most dynamic dining districts, sits at the crossroads of global travelers, corporate audiences and an evolved local audience, making it a strategic anchor for our expansion. For us, this opening is about building deepen relevance in high-intent markets and shaping preferences, not merely adding locations. P.F. Chang’s has always stood for bold flavors and a distinctive dining experience, and this location allows us to deliver this experience to the right audience ensuring a lasting relationship between our customers for the brand.” Taylor Viersen, VP, Global Brand Development, P.F. Chang’s, stated: “Our debut in Aerocity is a pivotal step in P.F. Chang’s growth within India, and broader global expansion, bringing our storied legacy and signature American Pan-Asian flavors to one of Delhi’s most premium dining destinations. By mastering the ancient 2,000-year-old tradition of wok cooking, we ensure every dish maintains the perfect balance of flavors that has defined our brand’s footprint across the world.” At the heart of the P.F. Chang’s experience is its signature high-temperature 700-degree wok cooking technique, designed to lock in flavor, texture and nutritional integrity. Guests can enjoy globally loved dishes such as Chang’s Lettuce Wraps, Dynamite Shrimp and Orange Chicken, alongside a thoughtfully curated menu adapted for Indian diners, including extensive vegetarian offerings. Signature favorites such as Lo Mein and the iconic Great Wall of Chocolate continue to anchor the menu, offering both familiarity and indulgence. Refreshing sushi, salads, gelatos and thirst-quenching carafes of delicious summery drinks are also available. All dishes are prepared completely MSG-free, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality and mindful cooking. Jerry Thomas, Culinary Head – Restaurants, Gourmet Investments Hospitality Group (GIHG), said: “At P.F. Chang’s, the wok is not just a technique, it’s where flavor comes alive. High heat gives us intensity, but it’s the balance of flavors: sweet, savory, spicy and umami; that defines the experience. Every dish is built to be bold yet balanced. With World St., we’ve stayed true to our global menu while making sure it resonates with local tastes.”  S. K. Sayal, MD & CEO, Bharti Real Estate said: “We are delighted to welcome P.F. Chang’s to World St. at Worldmark, Aerocity. Globally celebrated brands like P.F. Chang play an important role in shaping vibrant social and culinary destinations, enhancing the experience for professionals, travelers, and the wider urban community. Envisioned as the social spine of Worldmark, World St. is a dynamic, walkable destination that brings together some of the world’s most loved brands and experiences. The addition of P.F. Chang’s further enriches this curated mix, strengthening World St.’s position as a preferred destination for Asian fusion dining in Delhi.”  Beyond its culinary offering, the new restaurant at World St at Worldmark has been designed to deliver a refined yet inviting dining environment. With contemporary interiors, warm service and versatile seating, the space is ideal for business lunches, after-work gatherings, family occasions and social celebrations, reflecting the brand’s commitment to creating memorable moments beyond the plate. As P.F. Chang’s continues its measured expansion across India, the focus remains on honoring tradition, embracing innovation and delivering bold Asian flavors with purpose.

Food, Events, Latest News

Goa’s best mango menu wraps up 25th May 2026.

Deck 88 in Candolim, Goa is running Mango Mania until 25th May – a limited menu of cocktails, mocktails, and desserts built entirely around the season. Highlights include the Spiced Mango Margarita, Mango-Roni, Mango Cheesecake, Mango Mousse, and classic Amrakhand.  Mango Mania is designed as a last-chance seasonal experience for mango lovers looking to savour the best of summer before the season ends.

Hospitality, Latest News, Travel

Tour Blue Completes 14 Years, Strengthening Commitment to Safe, Responsible, and Personalised Travel Experiences

At a time when safety, accountability, and reliability are redefining travel decisions, Tour Blue is strengthening its position as a trusted destination management company by setting new benchmarks in crisis responsiveness, personalised service, and responsible tourism. In today’s rapidly evolving travel environment, responsiveness is critical. Tour Blue adopts a proactive, solutions-driven approach to managing challenges, ensuring that every situation is handled swiftly and effectively. A defining strength of the company lies in its collaborative team culture, where senior leadership and operational teams work seamlessly together to resolve issues and maintain uninterrupted service delivery for partners and travellers. As Tour Blue completes 14 years in the industry, the company’s journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a forward-looking vision that continues to guide its growth. “In an environment where safety and trust are paramount, our responsibility goes beyond delivering travel services. We are committed to being dependable partners. Our focus remains on proactive problem-solving, personalised experiences, and building long-term relationships that stand the test of changing times.” – Darshana Cabraal, Joint Managing Director, Tour Blue At the core of Tour Blue’s philosophy is a deeply personalised approach to travel. Each itinerary is thoughtfully curated to reflect individual preferences, combining flexibility, attention to detail, and high service standards. This is complemented by a strong focus on offering competitive value, ensuring travellers experience both comfort and confidence throughout their journey. Further reinforcing its commitment to safety and service excellence, Tour Blue continues to invest in strengthening its transport fleet, enhancing reliability, comfort, and on-ground operational efficiency across Sri Lanka. Aligned with global travel trends, the company remains dedicated to responsible and sustainable tourism. By supporting local communities, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting environmentally conscious practices, Tour Blue actively contributes to the long-term sustainability of the destination. Expanding its operational reach, the Jaffna branch office established last year is already buzzing with business, playing a key role in strengthening regional coverage and improving response times on the ground. Additionally, Tour Blue ensures comprehensive Pan-India connectivity through a network of highly experienced Indian representatives overseeing all major regions, enabling closer engagement and seamless coordination with travel partners.

Aviation, Latest News

LULU HYPERMARKET PARTNERS WITH KRISFLYER TO TURN EVERYDAY SHOPPING INTO GLOBAL TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

LuLu Hypermarket, through its loyalty programme LuLu Happiness, has announced a partnership with KrisFlyer, the lifestyle rewards programme of the Singapore Airlines Group. The partnership enables LuLu Happiness members to convert their Smile points into KrisFlyer miles, seamlessly linking everyday retail spend with global travel rewards. This collaboration brings together two strong consumer ecosystems—retail and aviation—to deliver greater value, flexibility, and aspiration to customers across India. From Everyday Purchases to Aspirational Journeys LuLu Happiness members earn Smile points across daily shopping categories including groceries, fashion, electronics, and lifestyle essentials. With the introduction of KrisFlyer miles conversion, members can now use these Smile points to unlock travel opportunities across Singapore Airlines and its low-cost subsidiary, Scoot’s extensive global network. The partnership reflects a growing shift in loyalty programmes—from transactional benefits to experience-led rewards—where everyday purchases can now translate into meaningful travel experiences. Strengthening Aspirational Loyalty By integrating KrisFlyer into its rewards ecosystem, LuLu Happiness strengthens its positioning as a modern, aspirational loyalty programme aligned with evolving customer expectations. For KrisFlyer, the partnership introduces a new retail-led pathway that allows members to engage with the programme through everyday shopping, further expanding its lifestyle relevance. Commenting on the partnership, MA Nishad, CEO – LuLu Group India, said: “At LuLu, we are focused on creating value that goes beyond transactions and truly enhances our customers’ lifestyles. Our partnership with Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer programme allows LuLu Happiness members to transform everyday shopping into aspirational travel experiences. This collaboration reflects our commitment to building a future-ready loyalty ecosystem that rewards customers in more meaningful ways.” Hsu Mae Goy, Vice President KrisFlyer Partnerships, Singapore Airlines added: “We are pleased to partner with LuLu Happiness to bring KrisFlyer miles closer to members through everyday retail experiences. This collaboration expands the reach of the KrisFlyer programme and offers members more ways to earn miles, reinforcing our focus on delivering value beyond the journey.”

Hospitality, Latest News

Younis Khan Appointed as the New Hotel Manager at The Lalit Ashok Bangalore

A seasoned and dynamic hospitality professional with a career spanning several decades, Younis Khan has been appointed as the new Hotel Manager at The Lalit Ashok Bangalore. Bringing with him extensive experience in hotel operations, guest relations, revenue growth, and strategic leadership, Younis has worked with leading hospitality brands including IHG Hotels & Resorts, Taj Hotels, The Grand Hotels and Resorts, and Radisson Hotel Group. Over the years, he has consistently demonstrated excellence in managing large-scale hotel operations while leading high-performing teams. With a strong foundation in Front Office operations, Younis has developed expertise across operational management, sales and marketing strategies, revenue optimisation, guest experience enhancement, team development, and service excellence. His strategic and guest-centric approach, coupled with seamless interdepartmental coordination, has played a significant role in driving business performance and elevating hospitality standards across the properties he has been associated with. Younis began his journey with The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group in 2024 as Resident Manager – Delhi NCR, and most recently served as Resident Manager at The Lalit Mangar. In his new role as Hotel Manager at The Lalit Ashok Bangalore, Karnataka, he will oversee the hotel’s day-to-day operations, lead strategic initiatives in sales and guest engagement, and further strengthen the property’s positioning in the market while ensuring exceptional and personalised guest experiences. On his appointment at The Lalit Ashok Bangalore, Younis Khan remarked, “I am delighted to join The Lalit Ashok Bangalore and be a part of such an iconic hospitality brand known for its excellence and guest-centric approach. I look forward to contributing to the hotel’s continued success, collaborating with the talented team, and creating memorable experiences for our guests. This is an exciting new chapter in my professional journey, and I am eager to make a meaningful impact.” Vivek Shukla, CEO of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, said, “At The Lalit, we strongly believe in nurturing talent from within and creating leadership pathways for our people. We are delighted to promote Mr. Younis Khan, who has been an integral part of The Lalit family and most recently served as Resident Manager at The Lalit Mangar, to the role of Hotel Manager at The Lalit Ashok Bangalore. His strong operational acumen, people-centric leadership style and deep understanding of luxury hospitality make him an excellent fit for this role. We are confident that under his leadership, The Lalit Ashok Bangalore will continue to set new benchmarks in guest experience while staying true to our ethos of refined Indian hospitality.” An alumnus of Mangalore University, Younis completed his graduation in Hotel Management and has received several prestigious industry awards and recognitions throughout his career for his contribution to hospitality and operational excellence. Beyond his professional commitments, Younis is a nature enthusiast and enjoys playing football during his leisure time.

Vibrant Colours is an Indian registered publication catering to the travel, tourism, embassy and hospitality sector. The magazine is published under the global publication group  Prime Communication from New Delhi, India. Launched in 2019, the magazine was conceived with a vision to serve and celebrate the ever-growing travel trade and tourism industry across India and beyond.

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