Author name: vibrant colours

Food, Latest News

Coffee Gets a Sparkling Upgrade, Third Wave Coffee x Schweppes India Launch Espresso Tonics

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From citrusy kicks to peachy refreshment, the new limited-edition range reimagines how coffee is enjoyed this summer. Coffee gets a sparkling new identity this summer with the launch of a range of espresso tonics. Third Wave Coffee, one of India’s leading coffee-first QSR brand, has teamed up with Schweppes India, one of the country’s leading premium mixer brands, to bring a fizzy twist to the coffee experience. A fusion of specialty coffee and tonic, the lineup features the bold and minty Espresso Turbo Tonic, the fruity Peach Espresso Tonic, and the zesty Citrus Crush Espresso Tonic. The partnership blends Third Wave Coffee’s passion for innovation with Schweppes’ legacy of premium mixer heritage enjoyed globally for over two centuries. Together, the brands are serving up a contemporary take on coffee that’s perfect for long summer afternoons, café catch-ups, and moments that call for something out of the ordinary. Speaking about the collaboration, Rajat Luthra, CEO, Third Wave Coffee, said: “At Third Wave Coffee, we see cafés increasingly evolving into spaces where consumers come not just for comfort and familiarity, but also to discover unique and elevated offerings. Our collaboration with Schweppes India brings together two brands that share a common vision of crafting premium experiences for modern consumers. With this espresso tonic range, we wanted to reimagine how coffee can be enjoyed during summer by bringing together bold espresso notes with the crisp, lively character of sparkling mixers. The result is a contemporary, flavour-forward range that captures the spirit of experimentation, indulgence, and summer refreshment that today’s consumers are looking for “ From Coca-Cola India, Sobhanjeet Rath, Senior Director, Marketing added, “For over two centuries, Schweppes has stood for premium refreshment and refined taste. This collaboration with Third Wave Coffee brings that legacy into an exciting new space, pairing the signature sparkle of Schweppes Tonic Water with the intensity of specialty espresso. It’s a bold new taste experience crafted for a discerning consumer.”  Whether in the mood for something zesty, punchy, or smooth with a sparkling edge, the limited-edition menu has something to match every summer vibe: Espresso Turbo Tonic – Bold espresso paired with citrusy sweet-tang notes and finished with a minty cool touch for a smooth yet refreshing sip. Punchy Peach Espresso Tonic – Juicy peach flavours layered over a bold espresso base, elevated with a squeeze of lime for a sweet, punchy refreshment. Citrus Crush Espresso Tonic – A vibrant blend of orange and grapefruit lifted with sparkling espresso tonic for a bold citrus kick. The espresso tonic range, starting at INR 315, is available at Third Wave Coffee cafés across India.

Hotels, Latest News

Joint Appointment Announcement | voco Amritsar by IHG Hotels & Resorts Announces the Appointment of Leadership Roles

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Set in one of North India’s most prominent spiritual destinations, voco Amritsar has announced the appointment of key leadership roles across its management team. The appointments bring together experienced professionals across operations, sales, finance, engineering, human resources, and security, who will play a pivotal role in delivering exceptional guest experiences while strengthening the hotel’s position in North India. Sunit Rana as Director of Sales Sunit Rana brings 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry, with expertise spanning sales strategy, market development and brand positioning across luxury and upscale segments. Over the course of his career, he has been associated with leading hospitality brands including IHG Hotels & Resorts, The Leela Palaces Hotels and Resorts, Radisson Hotel Group, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Pride Hotels, Sarovar Hotels and Chokhi Dhani Group. Throughout his career, Rana has played a key role in driving brand value, implementing strategic sales initiatives, strengthening market presence and supporting revenue growth. At voco Amritsar, Sunit will serve as Director of Sales, where he will lead the hotel’s sales strategy with a focus on market expansion, brand positioning and revenue generation. Roshan as Director of Finance and Business Support Roshan brings over a decade of experience in financial management within the hospitality industry, with expertise in financial planning, budgeting, compliance, and operational efficiency. Prior to joining voco Amritsar, he was associated with IHCL Goa and has also worked with leading global hospitality brands including Hilton and Marriott International. Throughout his career, he has developed strong expertise in financial planning and analysis, budgeting and forecasting, cost optimization, audit compliance, and cash flow management. He has also implemented internal control frameworks, improved reporting efficiencies, and partnered closely with operational teams to enhance overall profitability and performance. At voco Amritsar, Roshan will oversee the financial operations of the property, while supporting strategic business growth in line with IHG’s global standards. Saurabh Singh as Executive Housekeeper With over 15 years of experience in housekeeping operations, Saurabh Singh joins voco Amritsar as Executive Housekeeper. With a strong background in maintaining high standards of cleanliness, guest comfort and operational efficiency, Saurabh will be responsible for overseeing housekeeping functions while ensuring seamless service and an elevated guest experience across the property. During Saurabh’s professional journey, he has been associated with leading hospitality brands including Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn and Le Méridien, and have also contributed to prestigious pre-opening projects such as Jaypee Greens Golf & Spa Resort and Kempinski Ambience Hotel Delhi. His expertise includes team leadership, quality control, guest service excellence, and operational management. Shivendra Singh as Director of Human Resources Shivendra Singh has been appointed as Director of Human Resources, bringing in over 12 years of experience in human resource management within the hospitality sector. With expertise in talent management, employee engagement and organisational development, Shivendra has played a key role in building high-performing teams and fostering positive workplace cultures across hospitality organisations. In this role at voco Amritsar, Shivendra will lead the hotel’s human resource function, focusing on strengthening the people strategy, supporting talent development and fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment in alignment with IHG’s people-first philosophy. Narendra Yadav as Chief Engineer Narendra Yadav brings over 14 years of experience in hospitality engineering and technical operations, with expertise spanning electrical engineering, preventive maintenance, energy conservation, audit compliance and engineering operations management. He has been a part of the pre-opening team at voco Amritsar, where he has played a key role in establishing engineering systems, operational processes and compliance standards for the property. Prior to this, he served as Engineering Manager at Holiday Inn New Delhi Aerocity, where he successfully led major renovation projects while overseeing Quality & ISO and BSA audits. His professional journey also includes key roles with Le Méridien Hyderabad, Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport, MHRS Indore, and Courtyard by Marriott Agra. Over the years, he has been recognised for his contributions to the Best Executive of the Year award, along with multiple Executive and Associate of the Month accolades. With this experienced leadership team in place, voco Amritsar is well positioned to deliver distinctive hospitality experiences while strengthening its presence in one of North India’s most prominent cultural and spiritual destinations. Radhika Chhetri as Front Office Manager Radhika Chhetri brings over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, with expertise in front office operations, guest relations and hotel operations management. She began her hospitality journey through the IHG Academy and has since built strong experience across leading hospitality brands. Prior to joining voco Amritsar, Radhika was associated with InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) where she spent six years working across brands including Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn. She has also gained valuable exposure with globally recognised hospitality brands including Marriott and Accor. At voco Amritsar, Radhika will oversee front office operations with a focus on delivering seamless guest experiences and maintaining the brand’s service standards. Faizan Malik as Security Manager Faizan Malik joins voco Amritsar as Security Manager, bringing extensive experience in security operations, risk management and hospitality security leadership. Prior to entering the hospitality sector, he served with Delhi Police Department (MHA) for over 8.5 years, including assignments at the District Magistrate Office and as Personal Security Officer to the SDM Shahdara. Over the years, he has been associated with leading hospitality and corporate brands including The Leela Palace New Delhi, Radisson Blu Kaushambi Delhi NCR, Regenta Suites by Royal Orchid, Holiday Inn New Delhi International Airport, Ramada Encore by Wyndham, and M3M Corporates (Abante Management pvt. Ltd.). In addition to this, his professional credentials include certifications as a Certified Security Professional and Certified Protection Professional, a Postgraduate Diploma in Disaster management, Certified first-Aid trainer, a Diploma in Fire Management, and an NCC ‘C’  Certificate from the Indian Army. At voco Amritsar, Faizan will lead the entire hotel’s security operations with a focus on ensuring a safe and secure environment for guests and colleagues while upholding the brand’s operational standards.

Latest News, Travel

zingbus launches Chyll as bookings to offbeat destinations surge 90% year-on-year

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India’s leading intercity mobility platform, zingbus, has launched Chyll, a packaged travel offering that combines intercity bus travel, last-mile connectivity, curated stays, and local guides into a single booking experience. The launch comes amid rising demand for experiential and offbeat travel across India, with bookings to such destinations on the zingbus platform growing by over 90 per cent year-on-year. The momentum is further supported by the government’s continued focus on tourism infrastructure, regional connectivity, and intercity transport expansion under the Union Budget 2026–27. Designed to simplify leisure travel beyond just ticket booking, Chyll offers integrated intercity travel with end-to-end services including intercity bus travel & last-mile connectivity, handpicked stays, guided experiences, and on-ground assistance. Travellers heading to destinations such as Jibhi or Shangarh often need to separately arrange local transport, accommodation, and discovery experiences after reaching a transit point. The platform brings all these elements together into one seamless checkout flow. Commenting on the launch, Mr. Prashant Kumar, Co-founder of zingbus  said, “The bus ticket was never the full journey. For travellers heading to offbeat destinations, the real challenge begins after the booking. Chyll has been designed to simplify that entire journey through one integrated booking experience, from seamless last-mile connectivity to reliable stays and meaningful local experiences.”  The offering builds on zingbus’s existing last-mile connectivity service, Offbeat, which currently operates across 80+ locations spanning six states and two union territories. Chyll has launched initially in Jibhi and Shangarh, with plans to expand to additional destinations across North and South India in the coming months. Unlike traditional ticketing platforms focused only on transportation, zingbus is expanding its role across the entire travel journey through an asset-light, franchise-led model that includes mobility, stays, and local experiences. The platform also offers Rentals, enabling families and groups to book entire buses for community and leisure travel. zingbus has facilitated over 10 million journeys across 300+ cities in 20+ states through partnerships with more than 60 operators and continues to expand its electric bus network across high-demand corridors. With Chyll, zingbus aims to move beyond ticketing and build a more connected, end-to-end intercity travel experience for India’s growing base of leisure traveller.

Personality, Latest News, Shopping

AJIO LUXE Debuts in Delhi NCR with Its First-Ever Store at Ambience Mall

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The launch further strengthens the mall’s growing portfolio of premium and luxury brands AJIO has launched its first-ever AJIO LUXE store in Delhi NCR at Ambience Mall, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s offline retail expansion journey. The launch brings AJIO LUXE’s curated luxury and premium fashion experience to one of North India’s most prominent shopping and lifestyle destinations. Designed as an immersive and contemporary retail space, the store features a curated mix of premium international and Indian labels across fashion, footwear, accessories and lifestyle categories. The launch reflects the growing demand for elevated and experience-led shopping among consumers in Delhi NCR. The addition of AJIO LUXE further reinforces Ambience Mall Vasant Kunj’s positioning as a preferred destination for premium and bridge-to-luxury retail brands. Over the past few months, the mall has witnessed the launch and expansion of several leading fashion, lifestyle and global brands, further strengthening its premium retail ecosystem and appeal among aspirational consumers. Speaking on the launch, Arjun Gehlot, Director, Ambience Group, said: “Luxury retail today is increasingly driven by immersive and experience-led environments where consumers can engage with brands beyond conventional shopping. AJIO LUXE’s first store in Delhi NCR at Ambience Mall Vasant Kunj aligns perfectly with this evolving consumer mindset. The brand brings together contemporary luxury, curated fashion and aspirational experiences, making it a strong addition to our premium retail portfolio. We continue to focus on strengthening the mall’s luxury ecosystem with brands that resonate with evolving consumer preferences and global retail trends.” With a strong focus on curation, aesthetics and customer experience, AJIO LUXE aims to redefine premium fashion retail by blending digital-first sophistication with immersive offline engagement. The launch is expected to resonate strongly with fashion-conscious consumers, luxury enthusiasts and young aspirational shoppers across the region. Over the years, Ambience Mall has emerged as one of Delhi NCR’s leading lifestyle destinations, offering a diverse mix of luxury retail, fashion, dining and entertainment experiences. The mall’s growing premium retail portfolio includes renowned brands such as The Collective, Brooks Brothers, Kapoor Watch Company, True Religion, Diesel, and Tira among others. The arrival of AJIO LUXE further enhances the mall’s luxury retail ecosystem and reinforces its appeal among affluent and aspirational shoppers across the region.

Hospitality, Latest News

GymNation Secures $100 Million Investment From HPS, part of BlackRock, To Accelerate Expansion

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One of the largest private credit investments ever made into a GCC-born, founder-led consumer brand. GymNation, the GCC’s fastest-growing gym operator, has secured a $100 million private credit facility from certain funds, entities and/or accounts managed, advised or controlled by HPS Investment Partners, LLC (“HPS”), part of BlackRock-  the world’s largest asset manager, in one of the first regional investments of its size since the Iran conflict commenced. Founded in the UAE in 2018 by Loren Holland, Frank Afeaki, and Ant Martland, GymNation was built on a simple mission: to make world-class fitness affordable and accessible to everyone. Since opening its first gym in Al Quoz, Dubai, GymNation has grown to become the Middle East’s largest low-cost gym operator, with close to 50 locations and over 200,000 members across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. “Securing $100 million of growth capital is a transformational milestone for GymNation and provides the platform for us to expand our footprint across the GCC and beyond.  What was most encouraging throughout the process was the conviction shown by HPS and all stakeholders involved, who despite the challenging geopolitical environment, never lost confidence in the business or the long-term prospects for the region. The GCC has created a world-class entrepreneurial environment which, as a UAE homegrown startup, we are proud to represent,” said Loren Holland, CEO & Founder, GymNation. “The GCC represents one of the most exciting and highest growth fitness markets in the world right now, and we are proud to being playing our part as we continue to make fitness affordable and accessible to all. We also believe the GymNation brand and unique business model is transferable into other international markets, and we will soon be announcing our first expansion outside of the GCC, into Asia, which will represent an exciting new chapter of growth” he added. This $100 million facility ($75m committed with a $25m accordion) is the latest and most significant chapter in a capital journey that has attracted increasingly sophisticated institutional investment at every stage. In 2023, the founding team led a management buyout, acquiring full control of the business with the support of Ruya Partners and Tricap Investments, two regional partners whose early conviction laid the foundation for what followed. The transaction also marks a successful exit for existing financing partner Ruya Partners who played a pivotal role in supporting GymNation’s management buyout and expansion into Saudi Arabia. The refinancing by HPS reflects GymNation’s rapid growth and evolution into a scaled regional platform capable of attracting global institutional capital. The investment will be deployed across three priority areas. First, continued expansion across the GCC, with a pipeline targeting 100+ locations in the next three years, building on GymNation’s established presence across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain and supported by a new regional headquarters in Riyadh. Second, further investment in GymNation’s proprietary technology platform, the data, AI, and machine learning infrastructure behind GymNation’s industry-leading unit economics. Third, international expansion beyond the GCC, as GymNation evaluates new markets where demand for affordable, high-quality fitness is strong and the category remains significantly underpenetrated. More than 50 members of GymNation’s senior leadership team have been granted participation in the company’s long-term incentive equity plan, reinforcing alignment between management and shareholders as the business enters its next phase. Tatsu Partners acted as lead debt advisors to GymNation on the transaction while DLA Piper served as legal advisors. PwC provided financial due diligence and tax advisory services. Eight years on from a single gym in Al Quoz, GymNation has become one of the GCC’s defining entrepreneurial success stories. The transaction’s completion against a backdrop of heightened global volatility speaks to the strength of those fundamentals and the conviction of its institutional partners.

Blog, Travel

Summer Travel Takes Off: United Sees Flight Demand Spikes Around the Season’s Biggest Cultural Moments

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From the European solar eclipse to global soccer matches and major concerts, United is seeing double-digit gains in bookings* as more people plan to fly to catch summer’s can’t-miss moments United expects more than 53M travelers this summer – including 3.9M between May 21-27 for Memorial Day weekend Airline continues to deliver value from nose-to-tail with features like seatback screen entertainment that includes exclusive content from Apple TV, Peacock and Spotify, free inflight Wi-Fi from Starlink for MileagePlus members and access to the award-wining United mobile app** with features like a TSA wait time tracker CHICAGO, May 19, 2026 -A summer packed with global events is giving air travel a boost, with United Airlines seeing double-digit increases in demand to destinations tied to once-in-a-lifetime moments – from a total solar eclipse in Europe to international soccer matches and major global concert tours. More than 53 million people are expected to fly United this summer from June to August – about 3 million more than last year – and many are headed to destinations tied to unique can’t-miss moments, including: Total solar eclipse: Astro-tourism is surging, with bookings up more than 50% to Santiago de Compostela, Bilbao, Palma de Mallorca, Madrid and Barcelona, Spain as well as Reykjavík, Iceland and Nuuk, Greenland ahead of the August 12 total solar eclipse. United flies to 35 destinations within the eclipse’s path, including Bilbao, Palma de Mallorca and Reykjavík in the path of totality. International soccer: Fans from around the world are gearing up for an exciting summer to come together and cheer on their national team. United is seeing a nearly 20% increase in bookings in aggregate to the North American cities hosting large international soccer matches from Thursday, June 11 to Sunday, June 27, including Mexico City, Guadalajara, Toronto and Los Angeles***. United hubs in Houston (IAH) and Chicago (ORD) each provide direct flights to all host cities. Stylish concert seekers: Travelers in the U.S. are heading abroad for a golden opportunity to see their favorite musician live. Bookings to Amsterdam are up slightly compared to last year leading up to and during the residency between May 16 and June 5, including a more than 10% increase in bookings on Friday, June 5, the day of the final show there. United is also seeing a year-over-year increase in bookings to London compared to last year in the days leading up to shows there, particularly at the end of July, where bookings are up around 10% in the days leading up to shows July 26-30. “Whether travelers are flying to witness a solar eclipse, cheer on their team or see their favorite artist live, our goal is to provide convenient flight options and a seamless travel experience, making it easy for them to get wherever they want go around the world,” said Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President, Global Network Planning and Alliances. “With the largest global route network – and the most flights across the Atlantic and Pacific – we’re connecting customers to the moments that matter most this summer.” Elevating Summer Travel The unofficial start to summer – Memorial Day weekend – is also expected to be one of the busiest travel periods of the season, with United anticipating around 3.9 million passengers between May 21–27, or roughly 575,000 customers per day across around 5,000 daily flights. This is about 270,000 more passengers than last year. United is maximizing the onboard experience for travelers this summer, with features like: Expanded seatback entertainment with more than 800 planes equipped with Bluetooth audio-enabled seatback screens – the most of any airline – offering customers access to one of the industry’s most extensive collections of premium onboard entertainment. Passengers can enjoy more than 1,600 hours of industry-leading inflight entertainment, including award-winning films from Universal Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures and DC Studios, along with premium content from Apple TV, HBO Max, Peacock and Spotify. Starlink Wi-Fi is now available across United’s two-cabin regional fleet – more than 25% of United’s daily flights on average – giving customers reliable, high-speed connectivity to stream entertainment, watch live sports, shop, work or game online from gate to gate. Starlink installation across United’s mainline fleet is actively underway, with fleetwide availability planned by the end of 2027. More fresh onboard dining choices with options like burgers, sandwiches, snack boxes and more available for pre-order and pre-purchase on united.com and the United mobile app for all customers on flights over 1,190 miles across North America, Mexico and the Caribbean. United Economy® customers on flights over 300 miles also enjoy a choice of three complimentary snacks. More room for carry-on bags with larger overhead bins available on most mainline airplanes, designed to accommodate more customer’s rollaboard bags. The award-winning United app with features like virtual gate with live boarding progress, real-time bag tracking, TSA wait times**** at U.S. hub airports and helpful features for connecting passengers like personalized turn-by-turn directions to connecting gates, estimated walk times and real-time flight updates – including if United’s Connection Saver technology has been activated to hold a flight for a few extra minutes to help customers make tight connections.

Blog, Tourism

BRAND USA LAUNCHES NEW INITIATIVES TO BUILD TRAVELER CONFIDENCE AND INSPIRE INTERNATIONAL VISITATION DURING MILESTONE YEAR FOR U.S. TOURISM

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“Get Facts. Get Going.” establishes a single source of information for international travelers;  “American Originals” showcases the people and places who originated the styles, sounds, and  tastes the world loves. Brand USA President  and CEO Fred Dixon this week announced a major expansion of the organization’s America  the Beautiful brand platform. Two new supporting initiatives expand the organization’s  messaging: Get Facts. Get Going., an always-on effort designed to provide real-time  information on visa and entry policies, fees, and more to combat misperceptions; and American  Originals, a new content and storytelling series spotlighting the people, places, and  experiences that are uniquely American.  The new initiatives being announced this week at U.S. Travel Association’s IPW in Fort  Lauderdale, Florida targeting leisure tourism, and at IMEX in Frankfurt, Germany targeting  international business events — reflect the organization’s focus on growing international travel  demand and boosting travel exports that impact the U.S. economy and communities. The  announcement comes as the USA is readying to host significant major events beginning next  month, including the FIFA World Cup, America’s 250th anniversary, and the Route 66  Centennial.  “In line with our mission to impact the U.S. economy through travel exports, we have an  opportunity to further build traveler confidence and inspire visitation,” said Fred Dixon, Brand  USA’s President and CEO. “With our expanded platform, we are introducing American  Originals, which spotlights the people and places who originated the styles, sounds, and tastes  the world loves while Get Facts. Get Going. serves as a single source of information to address  misperceptions head-on. We want international visitors to know that we are open for business  and warmly welcome them.”  Since its global launch last October, America the Beautiful has served as Brand USA’s flagship  campaign and platform, inspiring international audiences. Monthly surveys show more than  seven in ten respondents say the campaign positively influences their interest in visiting the  United States.  Brand USA is now building on that foundation with two new initiatives, each serving a distinct  and equally important role. America the Beautiful inspires. American Originals fuels  consideration and Get Facts. Get Going. aids conversion by dispelling perceived logistical  barriers.  Operating under one data-driven and strategic framework, Brand USA also has created new  integration opportunities with its destination partners such as South Dakota and Alabama, and  corporate brands such as Hilton with more to come. New integrations are designed to expand  reach, improve target efficiencies, and drive greater visibility for the platform and partners.   GET FACTS. GET GOING.   The expansion comes at a necessary moment. Misperceptions about visa requirements, entry  procedures, fees such as visa integrity and national park pricing, and screening policies have  created confusion among some international travelers — and until now, no single easy-to-use   resource has brought this information together in one place. With the by-line “Travel with  Confidence to the USA”, the initiative addresses a range of misperceptions circulating on social  media and in international markets, including outdated or incomplete information. In each case,  the facts tell a far more welcoming story than what travelers are hearing. To meet the moment,  Brand USA is publishing a full set of facts, available at visittheusa.com/entry  Get Facts. Get Going. is built to be always on, and continually updated as an integrated  marketing, communications, and trade effort reaching international audiences through paid  media in key global markets; real-time content delivered through global distribution systems;  direct travel trade engagement through Brand USA’s agent training USA Discovery Program;  and testimonials through the organization’s Visiting Journalists Program.  As an extension of these efforts, Brand USA has an ongoing partnership with U.S. Customs and  Border Protection to facilitate and expand Global Entry sign-ups in international markets. CBP  representatives will be on-site at IPW this week at Brand USA’s booth to help answer questions  and provide updates on trusted traveler programs.  “Technological improvements including Mobile Passport Control and expanded Trusted Traveler  programs like Global Entry are making the entry process more seamless than ever before,”  Dixon said. “We want to bring that reality to the forefront alongside our new resource, Get Facts.  Get Going. so visitors can travel with confidence to the USA.”  In addition to boosting travel confidence, Brand USA is continuing to expand its storytelling with  the introduction of American Originals.  “This new content series features the people, places, and traditions that have influenced the  world and are unique to the USA through travelogue-style narratives that ignite exploration and  help travelers build their ultimate dream holiday,” said Dixon. “American Originals highlights  trends like set-jetting, culinary travel, live entertainment, and more, and kicks off with spotlights  on Monument Valley, Memphis, Texas, and New York City.”  The series also serves as a salute to America’s 250th anniversary by celebrating uniquely  American experiences, but will continue to expand into 2027 and beyond. The content can be  viewed here.   For the organization’s latest press information, including its latest What’s New in the USA and  America250 content updates, please visit www.thebrandusa.com/press.   For more on Brand USA, visit TheBrandUSA.com. U.S. travel ideas and trip planning resources  are available at AmericatheBeautiful.com. 

Blog

ITC HOTELS SET TO ACQUIRE A LUXURY RESORT ALONG THE ICONIC BACKWATERS OF KUMARAKOM, KERALA

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ITC Hotels Limited has today signed definitive agreements for acquisition of a luxury resort in Kumarakom, Kerala – The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala Resort & Spa (‘Resort’). The Company will acquire 100% stake in Zuri Hotels & Resorts Private Limited (ZHRPL), which owns the Resort, at an Enterprise Value of Rs. 205 crores, on a debt-free and cash- free basis, subject to customary adjustments as per the definitive agreements. The acquisition is expected to be consummated over the next few days and will enable ITC Hotels to expand its luxury portfolio in a strategic, high- growth leisure destination – establishing the company’s first owned resort in Kerala. The Resort is spread over 18 acres of lush landscaped greenery, along the serene banks of the Vembanad Lake, offering panoramic views and a private waterfront frontage. Located approximately 70 km from Cochin, it serves as an accessible luxury hub for both international and domestic travellers. The 72 keys Resort, includes 38 villas and cottages, which are designed around a sprawling 5-acre man-made lagoon that mirrors the tranquillity of Kerala’s backwaters. The property provides a seamless blend of traditional architecture and contemporary luxury with multiple dining venues, event spaces and about 20,000 sq.ft. of spa and wellness facilities. Speaking on the occasion, Anil Chadha, Managing Director of ITC Hotels Limited said, “The acquisition of this exclusive property in Kumarakom marks a strategic cornerstone in our journey to expand ITC Hotels’ footprint into one of India’s most sought-after leisure destinations. Kerala’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes have always resonated with tourists, and we are thrilled to bring our luxury offerings to this serene backwater sanctuary. By integrating this iconic resort into our portfolio, we aim to elevate the guest experience through our globally recognized culinary excellence and world-class Ayurvedic wellness offerings. This move reinforces our commitment to deliver authentic experiences that define the future of Indian hospitality.” Post extensive renovation, the Resort will be rebranded as a luxury resort under the “ITC Hotels” brand. Inspired by ITC Hotels’ core philosophy of “Rooted in the Soil”, the Resort will draw inspiration from the region’s traditional architectural designs – integrating traditional woodcraft and stone-work that celebrate the authentic spirit and craftsmanship of Kerala. By integrating ITC Hotels’ institutional strengths – including signature culinary experiences, best-in-class guest services, Club ITC loyalty program and robust distribution network, the Resort will unlock brand- led value uplift and establish itself as a premier luxury destination for leisure and high-profile MICE. Stabilized Revenue of the Resort is expected to be close to 3x of current levels and margin accretive to ITC Hotels’ portfolio. Kumarakom is known as the ‘Crown Jewel’ of Kerala and offers an unparalleled blend of ecological wonder and luxurious heritage. This enchanting emerald peninsula invites travellers to drift along the tranquil backwaters, embrace authentic Ayurvedic rejuvenation and immerse themselves in a lush green landscape, which define the very essence of Kerala – God’s Own Country.

Food, Latest News

TWH Hospitality Launches Its Second Nazeer Foods Restaurant in Zirakpur; Brings Tricity’s First Authentic Old Delhi-Themed Fine-Dine Mughlai Experience

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TWH Hospitality has officially launched its second Nazeer Foods restaurant at Pooja Plazzio, Zirakpur, further strengthening its growing hospitality footprint in North India. The newly launched fine-dine destination is being positioned as Chandigarh–Tricity’s first authentic Old Delhi-themed Mughlai restaurant, bringing together heritage-inspired interiors, premium hospitality, and the legendary flavours of one of North India’s most recognized Mughlai food brands. Founded over four decades ago, Nazeer Foods has built a strong legacy in Indian Mughlai cuisine and remains widely known for its authentic recipes, traditional cooking style, and loyal customer base across Delhi-NCR. The Zirakpur outlet marks a significant step in taking the iconic brand experience beyond Delhi while maintaining the essence of Old Delhi’s culinary culture. The newly launched restaurant has been designed with a premium dine-in concept featuring warm hospitality, Mughlai-inspired aesthetics, elegant seating, and a refined ambience aimed at families, professionals, and food enthusiasts seeking an elevated dining experience in the Tricity region. The launch also follows TWH Hospitality’s earlier strategic announcement regarding its partnership with Nazeer Foods for hospitality and culinary expansion. The company had previously announced the integration of Nazeer Foods’ kitchen operations at its Goa hospitality venture, enabling premium Mughlai cuisine offerings and online food delivery operations in the region. With the successful expansion now reaching Zirakpur, the group is aggressively strengthening its hospitality and restaurant vertical. Speaking on the expansion, the management stated that the response to premium Indian dining concepts continues to grow rapidly in emerging lifestyle destinations such as Zirakpur and Chandigarh–Tricity. The company further shared that it is now actively evaluating additional expansion opportunities across Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi/NCR through both fine-dine and high-street hospitality formats. TWH Hospitality, the hospitality venture backed by ICCPL Group, has been steadily expanding its presence across cafés, resorts, and premium food ventures. The group has previously gained visibility through ventures such as Boho By The Beach Resort and The Boho Box Café in Goa, while simultaneously strengthening partnerships with established food and hospitality brands. The Zirakpur outlet is expected to become a key culinary destination for residents of Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula, and surrounding regions looking for an authentic Mughlai fine-dining experience rooted in Old Delhi’s rich food heritage.

Latest News

Global Design Forum Brought Together International Designers in Türkiye’s Cultural Capital, İstanbul

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İstanbul, the vibrant global metropolis of Türkiye, supported by a vast infrastructure that includes 41 congress centres, 225 art galleries, and a wide range of design programmes across 27 universities, stands as a true cultural and artistic hub. This rich ecosystem has enabled the city to host an average of over 20 international arts and design events each year, bringing together diverse creative voices from around the world. Building on this strong foundation, the city continues to expand its global cultural presence. One of the latest highlights is the Global Design Forum İstanbul, which took place for the first time on May 13–16, 2026. As it joins the city’s dynamic programme of international events, the forum further reinforces İstanbul’s role as a meeting point for the global design community within its uniquely layered cultural landscape. Four-Layered Experiences Across Four Days The Global Design Forum, hosted by the Victoria & Albert Museum as part of the London Design Festival for over 15 years, stands as a leading international thought-leadership platform in the design world. The İstanbul edition of the event, supported by Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency, among other international stakeholders, aims to spotlight Türkiye’s creative-industry potential globally and position İstanbul as a dynamic hub on the design stage. Curatorial approach shaped by Melek Zeynep Bulut, grounded in “site-specificity”, the Global Design Forum İstanbul is conceived not merely as an event programme but as “a performance within the city.” This performance unfolds through four distinct layers of experience. In “Placemaking,” the first leg of the programme, a series of temporary design installations will be placed across the Topkapı Palaces Complex and unique corners of the Historic Peninsula. Produced through collaborations between universities and both local and international design studios, these installations will transform the city into an open-air laboratory for design research. Under the theme “Rethinking”, an international design competition will be held to reimagine İstanbul’s garden culture. On the other hand, the “İstanbullar” programme, implemented through a narrative approach, builds an interactive network in which the city’s creatives can contribute visually, audibly and editorially. At the heart of the program, the forum is framed around the theme “Worlds in Contact”. Exploring what design means in an era of interconnected crises, the forum features a two-day lineup of sessions, presentations, and discussions bringing together international and local designers, thinkers, and artists. İstanbul: Sui Generis City of Arts, Culture and Design İstanbul has long inspired artists and designers with its unique energy, shaped by the many civilisations and cultures it has hosted throughout history. The city stands as a compelling place where history, craftsmanship and contemporary design converge. Renowned for its breathtaking historic architecture, İstanbul is also home to a new generation of talented designers and artists, as well as well-established cultural institutions. Its vibrant creative scene is further enriched by a wide range of international events, from large-scale festivals to independent art initiatives, including the İstanbul Biennial, Contemporary İstanbul, İstanbul Music Festival, CI Bloom, and İstanbul Film Festival. The city’s creative landscape requires slow discovery, revealing a rewarding experience with a wide range of things to explore, from architectural landmarks that shape İstanbul’s creative rhythm to cool neighbourhoods where tradition and innovation meet. Moreover, the lively metropolis’s dynamic arts scene unfolds this year with many planned events, ensuring unparalleled cultural experiences.

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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