Author name: vibrant colours

    Hotels, Latest News

    voco Amritsar appoints Sumit Kumar as Executive Chef

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    A seasoned culinary expert, Sumit Kumar will drive innovation across dining and banqueting experiences voco Amritsar has announced the appointment of Sumit Kumar as Executive Chef. In his new role, he will spearhead culinary strategy and operations across the hotel’s restaurants, in-room dining and banqueting spaces. Sumit will also be heading the menu development, kitchen standards, team training and guest dining experiences at voco Amritsar. Chef Sumit brings over 16 years of international culinary experience, specialising in Italian and Progressive Indian cuisine. Over the course of his career, he has worked with leading hospitality brands including ITC Hotels, Hyatt, Radisson Hotel Group, Marriott International and IHG Hotels & Resorts. His professional journey has also taken him across international destinations such as Saudi Arabia, Dubai, England and Japan, where he gained valuable exposure to diverse culinary traditions and global dining standards. Speaking on the appointment, Manish Yadav, General Manager, voco Amritsar, said: “Culinary experiences play a vital role in shaping memorable guest stays, and at voco Amritsar, this remains a key focus. Chef Sumit’s global exposure, creativity, and leadership will further strengthen the hotel’s dining and banqueting offerings. The team is delighted to welcome him on board and looks forward to the innovation and excellence he will bring to the culinary experiences at voco Amritsar. Commenting on his new role, Chef Sumit Kumar said: “I am excited to join voco Amritsar, a brand known for its warm hospitality and vibrant guest experiences. I look forward to working with the team to craft menus that celebrate seasonal ingredients, refined techniques and global flavours, while creating memorable dining experiences for our guests.” Sumit is passionate about discovering new ingredients, exploring diverse cuisines, and immersing himself in culinary traditions from around the world. His culinary philosophy is guided by a strong focus on authenticity, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for locally sourced produce. At voco Amritsar, Sumit Kumar will helm the kitchen brigade, curating distinctive dining experiences while bringing voco’s core philosophy of ‘reliably different’ to life through thoughtfully crafted gastronomic offerings.

    Latest News, Tourism

    Shillong Literary Festival 2026 – New Delhi Prelude Opens to Resounding Success at Bikaner House

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    The Shillong Literary Festival 2026 – New Delhi Prelude was inaugurated today at Bikaner House, New Delhi, bringing together leading voices from literature, governance, cinema, journalism, and the creative arts. Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, the two-day national prelude marks a major lead-up to the main Shillong Literary Festival scheduled to be held in Shillong from November 12th to 14th,2026 as announced today, at the Bikaner House. The festival aims to showcase Meghalaya’s rich cultural identity and literary traditions while expanding the national footprint of the State’s creative ecosystem. The initiative also seeks to strengthen culture-led tourism, encourage local talent, and position Meghalaya as a growing hub for arts, literature, music, and ideas. A major highlight of the opening day was an engaging conversation between Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma and senior journalist Shekhar Gupta, where discussions revolved around leadership, governance, youth aspirations, culture, and the evolving identity of the Northeast. The dialogue transitioned to Meghalaya’s focus on the creative economy and the promotion of consistent calendar events. Shri Gupta commended the Hon’ble Chief Minister for initiating the Shillong Literary Festival, noting that while he has attended many literary festivals, the setting, weather, environment, and audience quality at SLF are unmatched. Discussing the vision behind these initiatives, Hon’ble Chief Minister added how the festival ties into a strategy to develop multi-event platforms, expanding on events like the Cherry Blossom Festival to ensure year-round engagement rather than random occurrences. Expressing his delight on the growth of Shillong Literary Festival, he said, “We started off small. Now we are seeing it grow. It has become a calendar event; and more importantly it is known throughout the country. And we thought that bringing it to Delhi- this prelude, would expose this entire event and would be able to reach out to the other parts of the country.” He added, “We hope that in the years to come, it will become a much-much bigger event, not just nationally, but even globally.” Hon’ble Chief Minister also expressed the vision of the government in aspects related to Meghalaya’s growing creative economy, culture of entrepreneurship, emphasis on sustainable tourism, development in education sector and its rationalisation, and economic development of the state. Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Vijay Kumar D., IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, said the Shillong Literary Festival has emerged as a platform celebrating the stories, literature, cinema, music, and cultural identity of Meghalaya and the Northeast. Highlighting the vision behind the New Delhi Prelude, he noted that the festival is an effort to place Meghalaya’s literary and cultural wealth on a wider national stage. Referring to Shillong’s growing cultural identity, he added that as the city turns pink with cherry blossoms in November, its popular description as the “Scotland of the East” transforms into the “Kyoto of the West”, a phrase famously used by legendary author Vikram Seth during his visit to the festival in Shillong in 2024. The inaugural sessions also placed the spotlight on the cinematic landscape of the Northeast. Acclaimed filmmakers Dominic Sangma and Pradip Kurbah, in conversation with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Suparna Sharma, discussed the evolving narratives, challenges, and opportunities for cinema emerging from the region. The speakers praised ‘Hello Meghalaya’ as a “saving grace” for independent filmmakers, highlighting it as an OTT platform that provides a supportive space to monetize and share their films at a time, when access to platforms remains a challenge. The evening culminated with legendary actor Naseeruddin Shah captivating audiences through The Elephant and the Tragopan, a special reading from Vikram Seth’s celebrated Beastly Tales from Here and There. He interspersed the poems with James Thurber’s works and read out his four stories to the literary enthusiasts, who filled the house. Reading Thurber’s works like, “The bear who let it alone,” “The Tiger who would be king,” “The owl who was God” and “The very proper gander,” before Seth’s works, Shah drew a parallel with the calls nature’s offerings and human’s greed. The session “Readings from Khasi and Garo Classics” featured Prof. Streamlet Dkhar reading from U Soso Tham’s Ki Sngi Barim u Hynniewtrep and her own work, Na Thwei Pyrkhat U Longshuwa. Dr. Crystal Cornelious D. Marak presented D. S. Nengminza’s Seokgimin Poetryrang and Ku·bak-Ma·o Sanirang, exploring Garo topography and the oral traditions of the gods Goera and Salgra. The readings celebrated the rich ancestral heritage and linguistic history of the region. Day 02 of the festival will feature discussions on Northeast literature, ecology, food, translation, and identity through sessions such as Shillong on a Plate and Once Upon a Time at a Literature Festival. The sessions will feature prominent speakers including Shobhaa De, Maharani Priyadarshini Raje Scindia, Sanjoy Hazarika, Namita Gokhale, Patricia Mukhim, and several others. The evening concluded with vibrant performances by artists under the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Program (CM-MGMP), transforming the venue into a celebration of Meghalaya’s music, rhythm, and cultural identity.

    Hotels, Latest News

    The Heart of Hospitality: Chandrakala Honoured as Radisson Hotel Group’s ‘Unsung Hero’

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    Reinforcing its people-first philosophy, Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) honored Chandrakala, a housekeeping associate at Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar, with the prestigious ‘Unsung Hero’ award at RAD LEADS 2026, RHG’s annual leadership conference held in Chennai recently. The award recognises individuals who consistently go above and beyond in their roles, often away from the spotlight, embodying the Group’s core values of service excellence, integrity, and dedication. It is a reflection of Radisson Hotel Group’s commitment to fostering a culture where every contribution matters, and where team members across roles and levels are empowered to create meaningful guest experiences. By spotlighting such stories, the Group reinforces its belief that true hospitality is driven by people, passion, and everyday acts of excellence. With nearly 15 years of service, Chandrakala has been an integral part of Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar since its pre-opening phase in 2011. As a member of the housekeeping team, she has earned a reputation for her attention to detail, reliability, and warm approach to guest service, qualities that have made her a trusted and respected colleague across departments. Her commitment extends beyond operational excellence. In one instance, she personally assisted an international guest with shopping and tailoring arrangements, ensuring a seamless and personalised stay experience, a gesture that earned heartfelt appreciation and highlighted the human touch that defines hospitality at RHG. Her honesty and ethical conduct have also been recognised internally, further strengthening the culture of trust within the hotel. Anuj Soin, General Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar, said, “Chandrakala’s recognition as Unsung Hero at RAD LEADS 2026 is a proud moment for all of us. Her journey reflects quiet dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. She truly represents the spirit of our workplace, where every team member is valued and empowered. Her story is an inspiration and reinforces our belief that when we nurture our people, excellence follows.” Chandrakala’s recognition underscores Radisson Hotel Group’s continued focus on building an inclusive and empowering workplace, where every individual contribution is valued and celebrated, shaping not just guest experiences, but the future of hospitality.

    Hotels, Latest News, Resorts

    Escape the Delhi Heat: 7 Luxe Uttarakhand Stays for the Perfect Summer Break

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    When summer arrives, families begin trading schedules for slow mornings, scenic drives, and time spent together in the hills. Uttarakhand, with its riverside retreats, forest hideaways, and heritage stays, offers the perfect backdrop for meaningful family escapes. Days here are shaped by shared experiences, from children exploring nature to parents and grandparents relaxing in serene surroundings. From a royal perch over Naini Lake to a cottage by the Kosi River, these properties have woven together with soulful getaways. Each one is designed for exactly what families need most: unhurried days, shared meals and the kind of laughter that echoes long after you return home. Below is a curated list of luxury properties near Delhi NCR that offer the perfect blend of comfort, nature, and immersive experiences for a memorable summer escape. Pilibhit House, Haridwar – IHCL SeleQtions Overlooking the Ganges, Pilibhit House brings together heritage and mindful luxury in a way that feels both rooted and refined. The experience here is deeply connected to its surroundings, from its design to its culinary philosophy. The hotel presents a vegetarian dining journey that celebrates seasonal ingredients and regional flavours across spaces such as The Dining Room and The Terrace, where every meal feels intentional and immersive. Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, Jim Corbett Taj Corbett offers a luxurious retreat set against the serene backdrop of the forest and the flowing Kosi River. The property showcases exceptional culinary experiences, with chefs presenting a variety of offerings ranging from perfectly grilled dishes to authentic local thalis and handcrafted cocktails across its restaurants and bar. Guests can immerse themselves in nature through jungle trails, scenic Himalayan drives, and guided birding walks led by in-house naturalists. Designed for all ages, the resort features a kids’ pool and games room, alongside wellness offerings such as the swimming pool and J Wellness Circle spa. Committed to sustainability, the property offer harmoniously blend of eco-conscious living with signature Taj luxury and warm hospitality. Avalon Cottages, Kanatal At Avalon Cottages, the world feels softer. Wrapped in forests of pine and deodar, the stay is designed to feel intimate and unhurried. The cozy rooms along with the unique structures like domes and igloos, each designed to blend harmoniously with the landscape. Days can be spent exploring nearby forest trails, enjoying peaceful forest bathing, or simply soaking in the views. As night falls, the clear skies are perfect for stargazing, often followed by delicious barbeque delight, making every moment feel personal, peaceful and deeply connected to nature. Aloha on the Ganges, Rishikesh There is a certain stillness that only the Ganges can bring. At Aloha on the Ganges, life flows to its rhythm. The river is always in sight, sometimes calm, sometimes shimmering, always present. Days are shaped by gentle rituals. Yoga at sunrise. Slow afternoons. Evenings that drift into the soft glow of lamps along the water. At The Patio, dining becomes a moment to pause, where every bite is accompanied by the quiet music of the river along with the spiritual evening of Ganga aarti. The Naini Retreat, Nainital Perched on the Ayarpatta slopes overlooking Naini Lake, The Naini Retreat, Nainital, carries the legacy of the Maharaja of Pilibhit. This heritage jewel offers regal comfort paired with panoramic lake views. Food lovers will find plenty to celebrate. Gurney House dishes out a wide array of Indian, Chinese, Continental, and authentic Kumaoni specialties. Stella Bar serves a curated selection of drinks in a relaxed setting. And The Walnut Deck provides an open air space for a memorable brunch or dinner, with the entire Naini Valley spread out before you. The Riverview Retreat, Jim Corbett At The Riverview Retreat, nature is not a backdrop. Here, the Kosi River runs gently beside charming cottage style villas, each with a private sit out. The culinary scene matches the serene setting. Gurney House serves up a memorable mix of Indian, Mughlai, Continental and local Kumaoni specialties, all overlooking the flowing water. For a more playful vibe, The Kosi Deck draws inspiration from European street food and bistro culture, blending traditional Indian tastes with global twists. Mahaseer Bar invites you to unwind with premium beverages as the forest hums on the opposite bank. Auradoon, Dehradun For those who prefer the buzz of a city curled in the hills, Auradoon in Dehradun delivers urban sophistication with a view. Located on Rajpur Road, this boutique property looks out over sweeping valleys. Meals become events at Aura, the all-day dining destination where Garhwali inspired dishes share space with global favourites. As dusk settles, Euphoria Bar & Lounge comes alive. Expertly made signature mocktails and a lively atmosphere make it an ideal spot for both business travellers and holidaymakers to let their guard down.

    Hotels, Latest News

    Firoz Khan Joins Sunday Hotels as Director and Channel Head – Business Development, India

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    Sunday Hotels, a global hospitality brand under Prism, backed by SoftBank, has announced the appointment of Firoz Khan as Director and Channel Head – Business Development, further strengthening its leadership team as the brand sharpens its focus on strategic expansion and partnership-led growth. In his new role, Firoz will lead business development and channel strategy, with a strong focus on identifying high-potential markets, strengthening partner ecosystems, and building a scalable growth framework across the portfolio. Firoz brings over 16 years of experience, with deep expertise in new market entry strategy, brand positioning, mall zoning and tenant mix strategy, mall positioning, brand operations, and long-term brand sustainability. Over the course of his career, he has built strong and long-standing relationships with developers, retailers, and institutional stakeholders across the country, enabling successful deal-making and expansion across diverse real estate markets. His experience spans leading real estate advisory firms and development platforms across Tier I, II, and III cities. Prior to joining Sunday Hotels, Firoz served as Vice President and Head – North India Business at PPZ, where he managed the entire North India portfolio, driving regional growth, developer partnerships, and asset acquisition while working closely with leadership on business planning and performance. His role also encompassed marketing, operations, budgeting, leasing, and SOH, ensuring end-to-end oversight of business execution and growth delivery. Earlier, he held the position of Associate Director at Colliers International, driving initiatives across markets nationwide and working closely with a diverse mix of retailers and developers. In this role, he also supported many retail brands and startup brands in planning their expansion strategies and business development roadmaps, helping them structure market entry and scale-up plans across Tier I, II, and III cities. He also worked aggressively with key clients including Walmart, Metro Cash & Carry, PVR INOX, and several other leading brands, contributing significantly to shaping retail expansion across Tier II and III markets. He has also held significant roles at Cushman & Wakefield, CBRE, and JLL. Over the years, Firoz has built strong relationships across developers, retailers, and institutional stakeholders, along with a nuanced understanding of how retail and real estate ecosystems evolve across markets. Firoz Khan, Director and Channel Head – Business Development, Sunday Hotels, added: “For me, business development has always been about understanding how markets evolve and building partnerships with intent. What stood out about Sunday Hotels is the clarity in its growth vision and the opportunity to build in a way that is both structured and sustainable. There is strong potential to deepen channel relationships and approach expansion more thoughtfully, and I look forward to working with the team to shape that journey in the years ahead.” With this appointment, Sunday Hotels aims to further strengthen its business development function while building a more resilient and scalable hospitality platform.

    Blog

    Journeys She’ll Love: Travel, Food & Wellness Experiences for Every Mom.”

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    Mother’s Day today is less about gifting things and more about creating moments—shared meals, meaningful conversations, and experiences that linger long after the journey ends. Reflecting this shift, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel present a curated portfolio of 20 destinations across India and the world, each offering a distinctive blend of wellness, culinary discovery, culture, shopping, and immersive experiences designed to celebrate every kind of mom. Kerala Kerala is synonymous with slow, restorative travel—making it ideal for a wellness-led Mother’s Day journey. Beyond the classic houseboat stay in Alleppey, travellers can opt for multi-day Ayurveda programmes at heritage resorts, focusing on stress relief, detox, and rejuvenation. Culinary experiences are equally rich—from toddy shop lunches and seafood grills along the coast to curated Syrian Christian meals served in traditional homes. Spice plantation walks in Thekkady offer insight into Kerala’s culinary roots, while Kathakali performances add cultural depth. Add village cycling, canoe rides, and shopping for spices and handlooms for a complete experience. North East India The North East is perfect for moms who enjoy travel that feels personal and off the beaten path. In Meghalaya, explore living root bridges, hidden waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers like Dawki, with opportunities for kayaking and nature walks. Assam offers a slower pace with tea estate stays—think guided plantation walks, tea tastings, and colonial-style bungalows—alongside river cruises on the Brahmaputra with wildlife spotting and local cuisine. Across the region, vibrant tribal markets, bamboo handicrafts, and indigenous food traditions—smoked meats, fermented flavours—offer a deeply immersive cultural experience. Seasonal festivals and music further enhance the sense of discovery. Kashmir Kashmir offers an almost poetic travel experience, where every element feels unhurried and immersive. Begin with a stay on a traditional houseboat in Srinagar—complete with carved wooden interiors, morning kahwa, and visits to floating vegetable markets. Days unfold with guided walks through Mughal gardens, orchard visits during harvest seasons, and leisurely shopping for pashmina shawls, papier-mâché artefacts, and saffron. Culinary experiences include multi-course wazwan meals and local bakery treats. For gentle adventure, head to Gulmarg for gondola rides, meadow walks, or even beginner skiing in season. The overall experience is one of calm, culture, and scenic beauty. Himachal Pradesh Himachal blends mountain charm with a variety of immersive experiences. In and around Manali, boutique homestays and riverside cafés create a relaxed base, while nearby villages offer orchard visits, local cooking sessions, and interactions with artisans. Wellness retreats focus on yoga, meditation, and digital detox, often set against panoramic mountain views. Light treks, nature walks, and scenic drives through valleys add a touch of exploration without being strenuous. Shopping for handwoven shawls, woollens and Tibetan artefacts in local markets rounds out the experience, along with sampling Himachal and Tibetan cuisine. Andaman Islands The Andamans offer a tropical island experience that balances relaxation with marine adventure. On Havelock Island, travellers can unwind on Radhanagar Beach – ranked among Asia’s best while also exploring coral reefs through snorkelling and scuba diving. For a more unique touch, night-time bioluminescence experiences and glass-bottom boat rides reveal the underwater world in a gentle, accessible way. Food is centered around fresh seafood, best enjoyed at beachside cafés. In Port Blair, colonial history tours, local markets, and handicrafts add cultural context. It’s ideal for moms who enjoy a mix of leisure, nature, and soft adventure. Bhutan Bhutan offers a deeply meaningful and mindful travel experience. Visits to monasteries like Tiger’s Nest are complemented by meditation sessions, nature hikes, and hot stone baths rooted in local wellness traditions. The country’s focus on happiness and sustainability shapes every experience—from simple, nourishing meals to interactions with local communities. Markets offer handcrafted textiles and artisanal goods, making it perfect for moms seeking a slower, more introspective journey. Sri Lanka Sri Lanka’s compact size allows for a diverse yet relaxed itinerary. Begin with tea estate stays in Nuwara Eliya, complete with plantation walks and tastings, then take one of the world’s most scenic train journeys through lush hills. Coastal regions offer beachside relaxation and seafood dining, while national parks provide wildlife safaris. Add spice garden visits, cooking classes, and local markets for shopping, and Sri Lanka becomes a well-rounded destination combining leisure, culture, and soft adventure. Nepal Nepal is ideal for a soulful yet scenic journey. In Kathmandu, explore ancient temples, bustling markets, and heritage squares rich in history. For a more tranquil experience, head to Pokhara for lakeside relaxation, sunrise views over the Himalayas, and gentle nature walks. Wellness experiences include yoga retreats and meditation, while local cuisine like momos and thukpa adds a comforting culinary layer. Adventure options like short treks or mountain flights offer a touch of exploration without being too demanding. Switzerland Switzerland is where scenic beauty meets indulgent, slow travel. Panoramic train journeys like the Glacier Express offer a front-row seat to alpine landscapes, while lakeside towns such as Lucerne and Interlaken provide a serene base for relaxation. Wellness takes center stage with luxury spas and thermal baths, often set against mountain backdrops. Culinary experiences include Swiss chocolates, cheese tastings, and fine dining, while shopping for watches and artisanal goods adds a refined touch. Gentle adventures like cable car rides, lake cruises, and nature walks make it both relaxing and engaging. France France offers a perfect blend of culture, gastronomy, and effortless elegance. In Paris, days can be spent exploring museums, enjoying café culture, cruising along the Seine, and indulging in luxury shopping. Beyond the capital, regions like Provence offer lavender fields, vineyard tours, and farm-to-table dining. Culinary experiences—from patisserie trails to wine tastings—are central, while boutique shopping and art bring in a cultural dimension. Spain Spain is vibrant, sensory, and experience-driven. From tapas trails and cooking classes to flamenco performances and bustling local markets, every moment feels alive. Cities like Barcelona and Seville offer a mix of architecture, shopping, and cultural immersion, while coastal regions provide beachside relaxation. Wine regions and countryside stays add a slower, indulgent pace, making Spain ideal for moms who enjoy food, culture, and lively experiences. Australia Australia offers diverse,

    Hospitality, Latest News

    Holiday Inn Express, Greater Noida, Hosts Book Reading Session with South African Author Angelina Govender

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    The event celebrated Angelina’s debut book, ‘Navigating The Storms of Life’, written during a deeply personal phase of her stay in India.  Holiday Inn Express Greater Noida today hosted “Strength in Words”, a book reading and conversation session with South African author Angelina Govender, whose book ‘’Navigating The Storms Of Life’’ was shaped during her time in India. The event brought together literature and culture enthusiasts, hospitality representatives, and guests for an intimate and engaging conversation centred on caregiving, resilience, recovery, and the power of writing through life’s challenging moments. For Angelina, the story behind the book is deeply intertwined with India. During a particularly challenging phase of her life, she stayed at Holiday Inn Express Greater Noida while caring for her son. Throughout this period, the hotel team became a reassuring part of her daily routine, offering warmth, care, and a genuine sense of home. The quiet comfort and consistency they provided gave her the space, stability, and reassurance she needed while navigating an emotionally demanding personal journey. That experience eventually shaped her writing. Navigating the Storms of Life captures Angelina’s reflections from this period written through the lens of a mother, caregiver, and writer as she searched for strength, clarity, and hope amid uncertainty. Commenting on the event Priyanka Ahluwalia, Cluster General Manager, Portfolio of Holiday Inn Express-By IHG, said, “Angelina’s story stayed with us because it reflects what hospitality can mean beyond a regular hotel stay. At Holiday Inn Express, we focus on getting the essentials right and a team that is present around the clock when guests need support. Her book is a reminder that strength is often built quietly, through routine, care and the spaces that help people keep going.” Through Strength in Words, Holiday Inn Express Greater Noida brought to light a powerful story where hospitality became an integral part of a guest’s healing and creative journey. The event was conceived as an intimate gathering centred around a guest experience one that seamlessly wove together travel, hospitality and the deeply personal search for a sense of home away from home. Holiday Inn Express Greater Noida is thoughtfully designed to cater not only to business travellers but also to long-stay guests. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a complimentary breakfast, a 24×7 gym, a complimentary self-service laundromat, and seamless access to Greater Noida’s key business and institutional hubs.

    Latest News, Travel

    Thoughtful Mother’s Day Getaways to Gift Your Mom a Meaningful Escape

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    With Mother’s Day approaching, gifting is shifting from things to thoughtful escapes—giving mothers what they rarely take for themselves: time off and Travel. Story Idea: Gift Her a Pause This Mother’s Day 1. No-Agenda Getaways Sometimes the best gift is nothing planned. Slow, easy trips where moms can rest, recharge, and just be. 2. Retreats that Rejuvenate From music retreats and writing retreats to wellness-led stays, these experiences offer creative and emotional reset alongside relaxation. Places like Woods at Sasan (nature-led calm) and Chandelao Garh (heritage + community experiences) bring this alive. 3. Memories Over Material Gifts Experiential gifting is on the rise—because shared moments and meaningful breaks last far longer than any physical present. Woods At Sasan, Gir Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Gir, Woods At Sasan is a thoughtfully designed luxury retreat that blends sustainability, comfort, and mindful living. Co-designed with architect Maria Portella and built using organic materials by local artisans, the property offers an immersive stay experience rooted in the ethos of the Kathiawar Somnath bio-region. From serene nature walks and farm-to-table dining to wellness-focused experiences, Woods At Sasan is ideal for families seeking a calm and restorative escape in nature. Chandelao Garh, Jodhpur Located near Jodhpur, Chandelao Garh is a heritage boutique property that offers an authentic cultural experience while preserving the charm of Rajasthan’s royal legacy. Beyond hospitality, the property is deeply committed to community development through initiatives focused on women’s empowerment, traditional craft revival, education, and environmental sustainability. Guests can enjoy a blend of heritage luxury, local cuisine, village experiences, and purposeful travel, making it a meaningful destination for families looking to celebrate Mother’s Day in a unique and enriching way. This Mother’s Day, experiential gifting is emerging as a preferred choice, with families opting for restorative getaways and quality time over conventional presents.

    Resorts, Latest News

    WelcomHeritage Curates Diverse Mother’s Day Weekend Staycations Across North India

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    This Mother’s Day, WelcomHeritage is highlighting a range of its experiential stays across North India, bringing together palaces and forts, nature retreats, wellness resorts, and wildlife getaways. Positioned as weekend staycations, the curated selection reflects a growing shift towards more meaningful, experience-led celebrations. Blending varied formats, from hillside retreats and wellness resorts to wilderness stays, the offering moves beyond traditional hospitality, encouraging families to spend unhurried time together in distinctive settings. Himachal Pradesh: Hillside Retreats and Intimate Escapes Nestled in the serene surroundings of McLeod Ganj, WelcomHeritage Natraj offers a relaxed mountain retreat, ideal for those seeking quietude amid nature. In Kasauli, WelcomHeritage Santa Roza presents a boutique-style stay, combining scenic charm with a more intimate, slow-paced experience. Uttarakhand: Wellness, Nature and Heritage Living Away from the city bustle, WelcomHeritage Arka Resort & Spa offers a wellness-oriented escape, where relaxation and rejuvenation take centre stage. Meanwhile, WelcomHeritage Kasmanda Palace in Mussoorie reflects the brand’s heritage legacy, with its historic architecture and sweeping valley views. Rajasthan: Wildlife and Outdoor Experiences For a more immersive outdoor getaway, WelcomHeritage Mount Valley Resort in Ranthambore offers a nature-led stay close to one of India’s most well-known national parks, blending comfort with the possibility of wildlife exploration. As staycations continue to evolve, especially around occasions like Mother’s Day, the emphasis is increasingly on slowing down, reconnecting, and choosing destinations that offer both comfort and character. WelcomHeritage’s curated stays reflect this shift, offering settings where celebrations feel more personal, immersive, and rooted in experience rather than scale.

    Food, Latest News

    Trimex Foods secures franchise rights to bring Panda Express to India, to open 100 stores with Rs 400 crore investment

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    Trimex Foods Pvt. Ltd., one of India’s leading multi-brand restaurant operators, has been awarded exclusive franchise rights in India for Panda Express, the world’s largest American Chinese dining brand, by a Subsidiary of Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. Through this alliance, Trimex Foods will introduce and scale Panda Express’ operations to 100 stores, with an investment of Rs 400 crore, starting with Delhi NCR, and across major metros and emerging cities. This partnership marks a major milestone in Trimex Foods’ growth journey and signals a new chapter in the expansion of fast casual brands in India. Customers here will now be able to enjoy the brand’s iconic signature dishes such as Original Orange Chicken® and Honey Walnut Shrimp® “At Trimex Foods, we are committed to partnering with brands that combine strong global appeal with local adaptability,” said Vaibhav Kaushish, a spokesperson for Trimex Foods Pvt. Ltd.  “Panda Express embodies innovation and quality, and we are confident that its signature wok-cooked dishes and warm, dining experience will resonate strongly with India’s increasingly adventurous and discerning food lovers.” Trimex Foods’ extensive experience in operating international restaurant brands in India — including Chili’s® Grill & Bar, PAUL, Cinnabon®— positions it uniquely to lead Panda Express’ market entry and build long-term brand love. Supported by a strong infrastructure spanning real estate, supply chain, and culinary innovation, Trimex plans rollout starting 2027. “We are delighted to partner with Trimex Foods, whose proven track record serving guests and caring for and developing their people, make them the ideal custodian of Panda Express. India is one of the most dynamic restaurant markets in the world, and this collaboration is an exciting step forward in our global expansion,” said Doug Stalgren, spokesperson for Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. Founded in 1983 by Andrew and Dr. Peggy Cherng, Panda Express currently has an annual turnover of over $ 6 billion. The brand operates over 2,600 restaurants across 12 countries globally, blending Chinese-inspired recipes with American hospitality. The brand’s commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and family values has garnered international acclaim — including recognition as a 2026 Brand Icon by Nation’s Restaurant News for its enduring global appeal.

    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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