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Awards, Latest News

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC Win Multiple Prestigious Industry Awards

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Recognized for Excellence in Weddings and MICE Hospitality at National Industry Platforms Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (NHCC) and Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) have added another significant milestone to their growing list of accolades, receiving multiple prestigious awards that recognize their excellence in hospitality, weddings, and MICE services. At the SWAAN Awards 2026, held during the SIWPC Global Convention, NHCC & HICC were honored with two Gold awards in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the wedding industry: Best Convention for Weddings – Gold and Best Hotel for Weddings – Gold Further reinforcing its leadership in the meetings and events sector, the integrated hospitality and convention destination was also awarded ‘Excellence in MICE Hospitality’ at the Exhibition Excellence Awards & Summit (EEA) 2026 Decennial Edition, one of the industry’s most respected platforms celebrating excellence in exhibitions, conventions, and event management. These recognitions underscore NHCC & HICC’s continued commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences, world-class event infrastructure, and unparalleled service standards across a diverse range of events, from grand weddings and social celebrations to large-scale conventions, exhibitions, and corporate gatherings. Commenting on the achievement, Rubin Cherian, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre, said, “We are honored to receive these prestigious recognitions from two highly respected industry platforms. These awards reflect the unwavering dedication of our teams, our commitment to excellence, and the trust our guests and partners place in us. Whether hosting landmark conventions, international exhibitions, or memorable wedding celebrations, we continuously strive to deliver experiences that exceed expectations.” Over the years, NHCC & HICC have established themselves as one of India’s leading destinations for conventions, exhibitions, corporate events, and weddings. With state-of-the-art facilities, expansive event spaces, and a customer-centric approach, the property continues to set benchmarks in both the hospitality and events sectors. These latest accolades further strengthen the property’s position as a preferred venue for world-class events and unforgettable celebrations, while reaffirming its commitment to innovation, service excellence, and creating memorable experiences for guests and event organizers alike.

Latest News

Abu Dhabi’s cultural vision strikes a new note with landmark performing arts institution Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi

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Designed by the late Frank Gehry, new performing arts institution will provide a home for a broad range of performances spanning ballet to opera Set to open in 2030, the institution will offer year-round programming, with 365 days of events and performances  The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) today announced that works have commenced on Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi (House of the Arts), a landmark institution on Saadiyat Island that will become one of the region’s most technically advanced performing arts venues upon opening in 2030. Representing a major investment in cultural infrastructure, the institution reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision to create world-class platforms for artistic excellence, international collaboration and cultural exchange. Through its continued investment in culture, creativity and knowledge, Abu Dhabi is building a vibrant cultural ecosystem that connects local audiences with the world’s leading artists and institutions while reinforcing its position as a global capital for culture. His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi represents our long-term investment in artistic expression and reflects our comprehensive approach to cultural development. It is an approach rooted in our values, shaped by our people, and open to the world. This is a deliberate investment in the future of our cultural ecosystem, and the scale of our ambition is clear. Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi will be a permanent home for performance at the highest international level, bringing together leading artists, companies and creative talent from the UAE, the region and across the world. Through artistic residencies, international partnerships and world-class productions, it will expand opportunities for cultural exchange, inspire new generations of creatives, and further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global centre for creativity, exchange and artistic excellence.” A home for the performing arts  Opening on Saadiyat Island, near the celebrated Saadiyat Cultural District, Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi will be among the region’s largest and most technically advanced dedicated performing arts venues. The highly adaptable performance complex will be a permanent home for opera, ballet, theatre and other live performances at the highest international level, and will bring together acclaimed and emerging talent from the region and around the world across a range of artistic disciplines. Audiences will experience the arts at different scales, from intimate productions to major performances. Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi will offer 365 days and nights of events, performances and activities.  Its facilities include a multipurpose performance hall of more than 2,000 seats, a 3,500-seat open-air amphitheatre, a 400-seat studio theatre and a 250-seat jazz venue, with a combined capacity of more than 6,000 across its spaces. The new performing arts institution is also envisioned as a platform for long-term artistic residencies, touring partnerships and co-productions with the world’s leading performing arts companies. It will bring the most celebrated artists and ensembles to Abu Dhabi while creating new opportunities for regional and emerging talent to perform alongside them. Expanding Abu Dhabi’s cultural landscape  Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi was commissioned by DCT Abu Dhabi and designed by the late Frank Gehry, one of the world’s most celebrated architects who is behind the architecture of the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. It is envisioned as a living expression of music and performance, with a billowing fabric-like exterior that cascades over the heart of the site. Its transparent façade invites the public into the artistic process, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s commitment to openness, engagement and cultural exchange.  These structures of Frank Gehry underscore Abu Dhabi’s commitment to architectural excellence and its strategic decision to invest in exceptional design that inspires and reflects the emirate’s cultural aspirations. The performing arts have long flourished in Abu Dhabi, demonstrated by its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Music; the annual Abu Dhabi Festival; the Berklee Abu Dhabi performing arts education centre; the Bait Al Oud music academy; and its role as host of International Jazz Day 2025, alongside other festivals and concerts.  The announcement of Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi reflects the emirate’s commitment to investing in culture as a means of sustainable development. Beyond its cultural significance, the institution is expected to deliver lasting community and socio-economic benefits, creating jobs, developing local skills and talent, attracting cultural tourism and strengthening the creative economy as a driver of long-term growth for Abu Dhabi.

Food, Latest News

Dibrugarh Gets Its First Immersive Tea Experience Destination And It’s Unlike Anything the Northeast Has Seen

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A landmark High Tea launch, curated in collaboration with Tea Amo and Muffin Top Society by Hemi, marks a new chapter for Assam’s storied tea legacy DIBRUGARH, ASSAM-21.06.2026-Amid the lush greenery of Lahowal in Dibrugarh district, where the air itself carries the scent of first-flush leaves, Heritage Tea made history on 21st June 2026 unveiling Northeast’s first dedicated tea experience centre, a destination crafted not just to showcase tea, but to immerse visitors in the full, living story of Assam’s most beloved steep. The inaugural event was nothing short of spectacular. A curated High Tea Experience by Tea Amo which is a curation company which works towards promoting the tea culture, thoughtfully paired with artisanal food from Muffin Top Society by Hemi Sonowal Dibrugarh’s favourite self-taught chef who is known for its boundary-pushing culinary creativity set the tone for what the centre aspires to be: a confluence of heritage, flavour, and community. In His Own Words: Quote from Rajen Baruah, Founder & Master Blender e.g. ‘For over four decades, we have believed that Assam tea deserves to be experienced, not merely consumed. This centre is our tribute to that belief, a space where every cup tells the story of our soil, our hands, and our heritage.’” Rajen Baruah, Founder, Master Blender & CEO, Assam Heritage Tea An Evening steeped to Perfection The launch evening welcomed guests who were treated to a high tea experience unlike anything the Northeast has seen before. Guests moved through a tasting journey, sampling some of Heritage Tea’s most prized blends from the Oolong Balls and Smoked Green Tea to the robust Black Pearls and the earthy Smoky Black Tea. Each pour was accompanied by a curated bite from Muffin Top Society, where Hemi, Founder and Chef, crafted a menu that honored both the terrain of Assam and the finesse of modern gastronomy. There was spiced carrot cake with lemon cream cheese, locally grown avocado and tomato bruschetta and cucumber and herb cream sandwiches. Highlights of the evening included tasting by Ishan Jyoti Baruah, Assistant Blender and a guided pairing session. From the Kitchen “[Quote from Muffin Top Society founder Hemi -‘Pairing food with such extraordinary teas was a revelation. Every blend opened up a new canvas for us to play with flavour and texture. We tried to keep it simple” -Hemi,Founder and Chef, Muffin Top Society Inside the Centre: Where Every Corner Has a Story The Heritage Tea Experience Centre at Lahowal is envisioned as a living, breathing celebration of tea culture. The centre features: • A curated tasting room showcasing Heritage Tea’s full portfolio of 70+ specialty blends • An interactive blending studio where visitors can craft their own custom blend under expert guidance • Heritage Tea factory / Archive Wing showcasing Assam’s tea history The centre is open to visitors, tea enthusiasts, travel groups, and corporate delegations – a first-of-its-kind destination in the Northeast that puts Dibrugarh on the map as a tea tourism hub.

Events, Latest News

Revel Travel Partners with Kappa FuturFestival to Bring Italy’s Premier Electronic Music Experience to Indian Travellers

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Attending premier international music festivals has traditionally been a complex undertaking for Indian travellers, requiring navigation of visa appointments, flights, accommodation, ticket purchases and unfamiliar destinations. However, the landscape is shifting rapidly as Indian audiences increasingly pursue global travel experiences. Recognising this growing appetite, Revel Travel has become an official travel partner of Italy’s celebrated Kappa FuturFestival, scheduled for July 3 to 5, 2026 in Turin. Held at Parco Dora—an iconic industrial venue transformed into Europe’s leading electronic music destination—Kappa FuturFestival attracts over 120,000 attendees from 150 countries annually. The festival has established itself as a premier gathering for international techno and house music enthusiasts, featuring more than 130 DJs across six stages. Festival tourism has emerged as a defining trend in international travel. A new generation of travellers now plans itineraries around concerts, sporting events and cultural experiences rather than traditional sightseeing. Experience-led travel has created opportunities for platforms like Revel Travel to simplify access to global events and remove logistical barriers that deter Indians from taking that crucial first international festival trip. As an official travel partner, Revel Travel provides Indian travellers with curated Kappa FuturFestival packages that bundle accommodation, festival passes and transfers—eliminating the complexity of coordinating these elements separately. Travellers can focus entirely on the experience rather than logistics. Speaking about the partnership, Sahil Wahid, Director at Revel Travel, said: “Kappa FuturFestival is an extraordinary cultural moment. We’ve witnessed growing appetite among Indian travellers for experiences that transcend typical holidays. Music festivals today merge culture, travel and community. This partnership exists to remove barriers and make it possible for Indians to immerse themselves fully in these transformative experiences.” As international festivals increasingly function as cultural destinations, the question is no longer whether Indians want to attend—it’s how to make the journey seamless. Partnerships like this one are making that future attainable.

Food, Latest News

Shangri-La Eros New Delhi Showcases the Flavours of Italy’s Amalfi Coast at Sorrento

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Inspired by the coastal kitchens, lemon groves, and leisurely dining culture of Amalfi. Shangri-La Eros New Delhi brings the sun-warmed flavours of Italy’s Amalfi Coast to the capital, a limited-time dining promotion at Sorrento from 24th to 28th June 2026, available across both lunch and dinner service. Drawing from a coastline defined by dramatic cliffs, working fishing villages, fragrant citrus groves, and an unhurried approach to the table, the promotion translates the spirit of one of the Mediterranean’s most storied regions into a seasonal menu built for the height of summer. The Amalfi lemon is more than an ingredient on this menu – it is the unifying thread that ties every course together, bringing its signature brightness, depth, and unmistakable character to the dining experience. From the calamari tagliatelle finished with lemon gel and herb crumb in the opening courses, to the tiger shrimp risotto with black Amalfi lemon and pecorino Romano, to the whole branzino in a lemon saffron sauce; the citrus of the coast shapes the menu’s identity at every stage. It is an ingredient the region has cultivated for centuries, carrying a particular sharpness and fragrance that sits differently from any other variety, and the kitchen at Sorrento has used it accordingly. A thoughtfully curated selection of handcrafted pastas and risottos lies at the heart of the dining experience, celebrating the richness of Italian culinary tradition through refined technique and exceptional ingredients. Signature creations such as Linguine al Limone, Fettuccine alle Vongole, and the Positano Coastal Shrimp Risotto capture the vibrant flavours and effortless elegance of the Amalfi Coast. The mains extend the range without overstating it. A whole Mediterranean seabass is prepared with an Amalfi lemon saffron sauce, olives, spinach, and asparagus. Grilled lamb chops arrive with a lemon and caper gremolata and turned potatoes; Amalfi lemon chicken with olives, plum tomatoes, and capers; and a ricotta-filled zucchini involtini with San Marzano sauce offers the menu’s most considered vegetarian option.  Desserts close on a bright note; a clean Amalfi lemon sorbet and a bergamot lemon meringue tart with rhubarb and strawberry compote. For a restaurant that has long positioned itself among the capital’s preferred destinations for Italian dining, Summer on Amalfi is a natural expression of Sorrento’s commitment to bringing the character of regional Italian cuisine to the table with intention.  Presented as a specially curated à la carte menu, the promotion is available during lunch and dinner service at Sorrento Restaurant, Shangri-La Eros New Delhi; an invitation to experience the flavours and spirit of the Amalfi Coast without leaving the city.

Hospitality, Latest News

Ministry of Tourism Celebrates 12th International Day of Yoga Across the Country; Hon’ble Tourism Minister Performs Yoga at Karjat, Maharashtra

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The Ministry of Tourism marked the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 with nationwide celebrations reaffirming its commitment to promoting wellness, holistic health and mindful living across the tourism and hospitality ecosystem.On the occasion, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat participated in a yoga session at Shantikshetra Ashram, Karjat, Maharashtra, where he highlighted the transformative role of yoga in individual well-being and nation-building. As part of the nationwide celebrations, the Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) and the Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE), organised a special International Day of Yoga programme at The Ashok, New Delhi. The event brought together senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Department of Public Enterprises, Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) and other stakeholders. The yoga session, conducted by expert instructors from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), witnessed participation from more than 150 representatives from over 10 CPSEs. This year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” underscores the importance of integrating yoga into everyday life to promote physical vitality, mental well-being, emotional resilience and healthy longevity. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, said, “Yoga is India’s timeless gift to the world, promoting harmony between mind, body and spirit. The theme ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing’ reinforces the importance of adopting wellness practices that support healthier and more fulfilling lives. It is encouraging to see public sector organisations come together in embracing this movement and inspiring healthier communities.” Highlighting ITDC’s commitment to promoting wellness and healthy living, Ms. Mugdha Sinha, Managing Director, ITDC, said that this year marks the second consecutive year of the whole-of-CPSE approach, bringing together public sector enterprises in a collective commitment to health and well-being. Yoga is a powerful tool for holistic wellness and healthy ageing. Through this observance, we reaffirm our dedication to fostering wellness, resilience and healthier lifestyles among employees and stakeholders. We are encouraged by the enthusiastic participation of CPSEs in this nationwide movement, she added. Extending the celebrations across the tourism and hospitality education ecosystem, Institutes of Hotel Management (IHMs) under the Ministry of Tourism organised yoga sessions and awareness programmes across the country with enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members and staff. Through these initiatives, the institutions encouraged young hospitality professionals to embrace wellness as an integral part of both personal and professional life.

Hotels, Latest News, Resorts

IHG Hotels & Resorts signs Holiday Inn Mathura, tapping demand in a key spiritual tourism market

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The 115-key hotel is scheduled to open in early 2030 IHG®️ Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hospitality companies, has signed a management agreement with Embrassio Hotels & Resorts Private Limited, the hospitality arm of Vrindara Group, to develop Holiday Inn Mathura. Scheduled to open in early 2030, the signing reinforces IHG’s commitment to expanding its presence across high-potential travel markets in India and driving growth in demand-led destinations across the country. Holiday Inn, one of the world’s most recognised hotel brands, continues to respond to evolving travel needs and strong owner demand. In India, the brand is building momentum across key destinations, supported by a pipeline of more than 40 Holiday Inn-branded hotels and IHG’s broader growth ambitions in the country. One of India’s oldest and most significant religious centres, Mathura continues to attract visitors from across the country, supported by growing spiritual tourism and increasing demand for quality branded accommodation. Well positioned to serve this demand, Holiday Inn Mathura will offer 115 rooms and suites, three dining venues including an all-day dining restaurant, bar and lobby lounge, as well as meeting and event facilities across five venues, including a ballroom. The hotel will also feature a fitness centre and swimming pool. Commenting on the signing, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are delighted to partner with Embrassio Hotels & Resorts Private Limited to introduce Holiday Inn Mathura. The city’s significance as a spiritual destination, combined with rising demand for quality branded accommodation, makes it a compelling market for growth. The signing of Holiday Inn Mathura aligns with our strategy of expanding in high-potential destinations and bringing globally recognised brands to locations where travellers are seeking trusted hospitality experiences.” Mr. Krishna Kumar Sharma, Managing Director, Vrindara Group, added: “We are pleased to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to bring Holiday Inn to Mathura. As one of the most recognised and trusted hotel brands in the world, Holiday Inn is well suited to meet the needs of the city’s growing visitor base. We look forward to developing a hotel that combines international standards with the warmth and character of Mathura.” The signing of Holiday Inn Mathura marks another milestone in IHG’s expansion journey in India, underscoring its strategy of bringing globally trusted brands to high-potential destinations and broadening its presence across key travel markets in the country. IHG®️ currently has 52 hotels operating across six brands in India, including Six Senses, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts®️, Crowne Plaza®️, voco™️ Hotels, Holiday Inn Resort®️ and Holiday Inn Express®️, and a strong pipeline of 98 hotels due to open in the next 3-5 years.

Hotels, Latest News

Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel launches sustainable F&B initiatives to reduce carbon emissions & waste

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The Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai has unveiled two sustainability initiatives that are helping to reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint, by minimising food waste, saving water and improving operational efficiency. Located adjacent to the Ibn Battuta Mall, the 411 room five-star property which is owned by Seven Tides International and operated by Minor Hotels, now sources its own produce locally at the Khawaneej Farm in Dubai. The initiative enhances the quality, freshness, and sustainability of the hotel’s food offering through a direct farm-to-table approach. “Our organic produce includes cucumbers, tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, radish, green bell peppers, yellow peppers, red bell peppers, coriander, parsley, dill, spring onions, and lettuce. All of our vegetables are cultivated using sustainable farming practices to ensure high quality, freshness, and environmental responsibility,” said Gari Abdelmjid, Executive Chef at Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai.   Production volumes are carefully aligned with hotel occupancy levels and seasonal needs  while reducing reliance on external supply chains. The initiative also supports the hotel’s commitment to environmental responsibility by minimising food miles, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable farming practices. “Through demand-based harvesting, we can significantly reduce the carbon emissions associated with transportation, packaging, and external supply chains. Using locally grown produce can reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 30–70% compared to conventionally sourced produce that requires import, refrigerated storage and distribution,” added Abdelmjid. The hotel also benefits from cost-efficiencies too, the initial setup and operational expenses, are balanced over time by consistent supply, reduced purchasing fluctuations, and improved produce utilisation. Overall, the farm supports a more efficient and sustainable procurement model, aligning cost management with environmental responsibility. Another initiative that the management team at Oaks has embarked upon is its water re-bottling operation, which is carried out on-site at the hotel.  A dedicated area was created to produce both still and sparkling water. The in-house approach allows for full quality control, reduces reliance on external suppliers, and supports sustainability efforts by once again minimising transportation and packaging waste. Bottle production is also directly aligned with hotel occupancy levels to ensure efficient and demand-based supply. On average, production ranges from approximately 500 bottles per day during low occupancy periods and to up to 1,500 bottles per day during peak demand.  “This initiative was launched to provide a high-quality, sustainable, and self-sufficient water supply for in-house guests. By establishing an on-site water plant, the hotel ensures greater control over quality standards, consistency, and operational efficiency,” said Abdelmjid. “The on-site water bottling initiative contributes to a significant reduction in carbon emissions by eliminating the need for external transportation, large-scale bottling logistics, and single-use packaging,” he added. While exact carbon savings depend on occupancy and production levels, in-house bottling systems typically reduce emissions by an estimated 40–80% compared to externally sourced bottled water. By producing water in-house, the hotel also reduces external supply chain costs, with the primary ongoing expense being reusable glass bottles.  In addition, with the initiative operating on a zero single-use plastic model, further reductions in environmental impact can be achieved and support the hotel’s overall commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management. For more information, visit https://www.oakshotels.com/en/oaks-ibn-battuta-gate-dubai.

Latest News, Hospitality

Korea Tourism Organization Hosts Successful MICE Roadshow 2026 in Mumbai

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The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) India successfully hosted the Korea MICE Roadshow 2026 in Mumbai, bringing together key stakeholders from India’s travel trade and corporate sector to explore Korea’s expanding opportunities in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. As Korea continues to strengthen its position as a leading MICE destination in Asia, the roadshow highlighted the country’s world-class convention infrastructure, innovative event experiences, seamless accessibility, and comprehensive support programs. Backed by state-of-the-art venues, smart city initiatives, rich cultural experiences, and strong government support, Korea is increasingly attracting international meetings, conventions, and incentive groups from around the world. During the event, KTO presented its extensive support framework for Indian MICE groups, including the highly popular Korea MICE Group Visa Program, which offers visa fee waivers, expedited processing, and simplified documentation procedures for eligible groups. Attendees were also introduced to KTO’s customized MICE Support Program 2026, which provides a wide range of benefits tailored to group size and requirements. These support measures include destination experience fees, souvenirs, official dinner support, cultural performances, charter bus arrangements, K-pop experience booths, K-food trucks, welcome receptions, team-building activities, and professionally produced trip highlight videos. The program is designed to help organizers create memorable and impactful experiences while maximizing value for participants. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Myong Kil Yun, Regional Director, India & SAARC Countries, Korea Tourism Organization, said: “Korea is not just a destination for business events, it is a place where business, culture, innovation, and unforgettable experiences come together. We are proud to welcome the recent group from India and showcase the many possibilities Korea offers for the MICE industry. The strong response from our Indian partners reflects the growing confidence and potential of this market. We believe this is only the beginning, and we look forward to welcoming even larger groups, more impactful events, and deeper collaborations in the years ahead. Together, we will continue to create exceptional MICE experiences that strengthen the friendship and partnership between India and Korea.” A special highlight of the roadshow was the felicitation of Indian actress and Korea Tourism Honorary Ambassador Ms. Priyanka Mohan, who was officially appointed by KTO on June 1, 2026, during a ceremony held at the KTO Seoul Center, HiKR Ground. As part of her ambassadorial engagement, Ms. Priyanka recently participated in a specially curated familiarization (FAM) trip to Seoul and Gyeongju, where she experienced Korea’s diverse tourism offerings firsthand. Her itinerary included immersive encounters with K-beauty, Korean cuisine, traditional markets, cultural heritage sites, and contemporary lifestyle attractions, offering a comprehensive glimpse into Korea’s unique blend of tradition and innovation. Addressing the audience, Ms. Priyanka Mohan shared: “Korea holds a special place in my heart. My time there, both during my shoot and on this recent visit, has given me memories I will always cherish. The people, the culture, the food, and the warmth I experienced have stayed with me long after I left. I’ve also been fortunate to make some wonderful friends there, which has made my connection to Korea even more special. It’s a place that continues to inspire me, and I look forward to returning again and again. I am truly honored to have been appointed as the Honorary Ambassador for Korea Tourism in India. It is a privilege and responsibility that I deeply value, and I look forward to doing my best to promote Korea’s rich culture, beautiful destinations, and unique experiences to Indian travelers. Thank you to the KTO team for hosting me this year and making this experience so memorable.” Through the Korea MICE Roadshow 2026, KTO reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening India-Korea tourism and business event exchanges.

Latest News, Resorts

Beyond the forecast: Discovering the beauty of monsoon travel at The Serai Resorts

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As travellers increasingly seek meaningful escapes over packed itineraries, a new travel mindset is emerging. According to recent travel trend reports, Gen Z and millennial travellers are embracing “quietcations” and “hushpitality”, experiences centred around slowing down, disconnecting from digital noise, and reconnecting with nature at a gentler pace. In a world that constantly demands attention, the luxury of stillness has become one of the most sought-after indulgences. It is precisely during the monsoon season that this philosophy comes alive across The Serai Resorts, where the showers come in not merely as weather change, but an invitation to experience destinations in their most authentic, immersive form. The Serai Resorts, Chikmagalur: In the land of rains Chikmagalur sits within Karnataka’s famed Malnad region, literally translating to “the land of rains” where monsoons have shaped the landscape, culture, and rhythm of life for centuries. At The Serai Resorts Chikmagalur, nestled amidst sprawling coffee plantations at the foothills rather than high-altitude terrain, the season transforms the estate into a canvas of emerald greens, mist-covered valleys, and rain-kissed coffee bushes. Far from being a challenge, the monsoon is widely considered one of the most beautiful times to experience Chikmagalur. Guests can embrace slow mornings overlooking the plantations, embark on guided estate walks through fragrant coffee trails, enjoy leisurely cycling routes framed by lush scenery, and savour the simple pleasure of watching clouds drift across the hills. It is a destination that encourages travellers to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature’s rhythm. The Serai Resorts, Kabini: Life along the backwaters There is perhaps no season more magical in Kabini than the monsoon. As rains replenish the backwaters and breathe new life into the forests, the landscape becomes richer, quieter, and teeming with natural beauty. At The Serai Kabini, perched along the tranquil backwaters, the experience is centred around immersion rather than observation. Families and travellers can explore nature walks through thriving ecosystems, glide across the waters on coracle rides and kayaking adventures, enjoy speedboat excursions, try their hand at archery, or let younger guests discover creativity through the Junior Chef experience. The rains create an atmosphere of calm and renewal, making Kabini ideal for those looking to disconnect from routine and embrace the restorative power of nature without compromising on comfort or safety. The Serai Resorts, Bandipur: The wilderness in its most beautiful season Monsoon breathes fresh energy into Bandipur’s forests, painting the landscape in vivid shades of green and transforming the wilderness into one of the most scenic periods of the year. Located on the edge of the Bandipur Tiger Reserve and framed by the Nilgiri hills, The Serai Bandipur offers travellers a chance to experience nature at its most serene. The season invites slower exploration- unhurried nature walks, quiet wildlife sightings, leisurely afternoons surrounded by the sounds of the forest, and meaningful time spent with family away from urban distractions. Complemented by spacious accommodation, thoughtful hospitality, and immersive outdoor experiences, Bandipur becomes an ideal setting for travellers seeking a deeper connection with the natural world. At a time when travellers are increasingly choosing experiences that prioritizes wellbeing, mindfulness, and authenticity, The Serai Resorts presents a compelling alternative to conventional luxury travel. Whether amidst the rain-soaked coffee estates of Chikmagalur, the replenished backwaters of Kabini, or the flourishing wilderness of Bandipur, the monsoon is not something to escape from rather something to embrace.

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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