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Latest News

Your Dream Summer Starts Now: Early Booking for Türkiye’s Turquoise Coasts

As travellers begin mapping out their summer holiday plans, the advantages of early booking are increasingly shaping their decisions. Discounts, package deals, and the peace of mind that comes with planning ahead have become key considerations for many holidaymakers. According to the Expedia Group’s 2025 Traveller Value Index, early booking discounts and bundled travel packages are among the most attractive options for travellers planning to book a hotel within the next 12 months. The survey reveals that 50% of travellers find discounts on package deals particularly appealing, making them the most popular option among those surveyed. The findings highlight a clear shift in travel habits: booking early is no longer just a strategy for saving money; it has become a mainstream consumer behaviour. For those looking to turn these early plans into an unforgettable summer escape, Türkiye’s spectacular coastal resorts offer the perfect setting. Stretching from the turquoise shores of the Turkish Riviera in Antalya to the elegant Aegean destinations of Muğla and İzmir, these vibrant resort cities combine sea-sun-sand holidays with culture, gastronomy, and a wide range of activities. Early reservations not only secure the best early-bird rates but also make it easier to find the ideal accommodation in the destination and resort of your choice. Once your plans are set, the experience truly begins. Crystal-clear waters and powdery Blue-Flag beaches define these shores, inviting visitors to dive into endless shades of blue or enjoy thrilling water sports. A traditional blue voyage reveals the hidden beauty of the region’s secluded bays, while beyond the coastline, countless other experiences await—from exploring ancient heritage and scenic hiking routes to savouring local cuisine and enjoying lively evenings by the sea. Book early, arrive on time, and make the most of nature, culture, history, and unique flavours along Türkiye’s Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Escape to the Sun on the Turkish Riviera Whether planning a romantic escape, a solo break, or a family holiday, Antalya stands out as one of the most popular summer destinations in Türkiye, located on the country’s sun-drenched southern coast. With early booking advantages, visitors can secure stays at luxurious resorts offering elegant rooms with spectacular views, fine restaurants, relaxing spas, sports and entertainment facilities, aquaparks, and—particularly in the Belek area—access to world-class golf courses. Beyond its lavish resorts, Antalya captivates visitors with nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, turquoise waters, and expansive sandy beaches, including the world’s highest number of Blue Flag beaches. The city also boasts remarkable cultural and historical treasures, from ancient cities such as Patara and Side to iconic landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate, as well as natural wonders including the Düden Waterfalls and impressive caves such as Karain and Damlataş. Adventure seekers will also find plenty to explore, from hiking the legendary Lycian Way to rafting in Köprülü Canyon or diving in the crystal-clear waters of Kaş. After a day of discovery, visitors can savour Antalya’s rich Mediterranean cuisine—perhaps with a memorable dinner by the old harbour, where fresh seafood, traditional mezes, and local wines are served against a backdrop of yachts and sunset views. Antalya also stands as Türkiye’s second most globally connected gateway, hosting direct flights from over sixty countries during the peak summer season to serve as the primary international hub for the Turkish Riviera. Secure Your Spot for an Unforgettable Summer in the Aegean On the other hand, the Aegean region offers a wealth of destinations perfect for early planners, from the charming islands of Bozcaada and Gökçeada off the coast of Çanakkale to Ayvalık and its picturesque Cunda Island in Balıkesir, and the vibrant resort towns of İzmir and Muğla. İzmir, known as the pearl of the Aegean, stands out for its relaxed seaside lifestyle and high quality of life, offering fantastic summer escapes in destinations such as Foça, Seferihisar, Çeşme, Alaçatı and Urla. Visitors can try windsurfing in Alaçatı, follow the vineyard route in Urla, enjoy farm-to-table dining at MICHELIN-starred restaurants, or explore nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Ephesus and Pergamon. Further south, Muğla, the shining star of the region, is home to some of Türkiye’s most beloved resort towns, including glamorous Bodrum and the natural beauty of Fethiye, Dalaman, Marmaris, and Datça. With early-booking advantages, visitors can stay in luxurious hotels while exploring iconic landmarks such as Bodrum Castle and the ancient city of Knidos, discovering natural wonders like Butterfly Valley and Ölüdeniz, paragliding from Babadağ Mountain, spotting Caretta carettas at İztuzu Beach, and enjoying exceptional dining experiences. For those eager to uncover the region’s many hidden coves and picturesque bays, a traditional blue voyage along the Aegean coast remains one of the most enchanting ways to experience its beauty.

Hospitality, Hotels, Latest News

Conrad Bengaluru appoints Aagman Baury as Hotel Manager

Conrad Bengaluru is pleased to announce the appointment of Aagman Baury as its new Hotel Manager. With extensive experience across luxury and upscale hospitality, Aagman brings a strong track record of operational excellence, strategic leadership, and guest-centric innovation. A seasoned hospitality professional, Aagman has held leadership roles with renowned brands including The Leela Palaces Hotels and Resorts, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, InterContinental Hotels Group, and Marriott International. Over the course of his career, he has successfully led full-service and luxury hotels, managed pre-opening projects and operational turnarounds, and consistently delivered strong financial performance while enhancing guest satisfaction. Prior to joining Conrad Bengaluru, Aagman served as General Manager at The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, Delhi, where he played a key role in driving operational efficiency and strengthening the property’s market positioning. His earlier stints include leadership roles at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, Trident BKC, and JW Marriott Marquis Doha, where he built deep expertise across hotel operations and rooms division management. In his new role, Aagman will oversee overall hotel operations, focusing on delivering exceptional guest experiences, strengthening operational efficiencies, and driving sustainable growth. He brings a collaborative and data-driven approach to leadership, with a strong emphasis on building high-performing teams, fostering a culture of accountability, and aligning business strategies with long-term asset value. Commenting on his appointment, Aagman Baury said, “I am delighted to join Conrad Bengaluru and look forward to working with a talented team to further elevate the hotel’s positioning as a leading luxury destination. My focus will be on delivering consistent excellence, enhancing guest experiences, and driving growth through innovation and strong team collaboration.” With this appointment, Conrad Bengaluru continues to strengthen its leadership team, reinforcing its commitment to delivering world-class hospitality and exceptional service.

Hotels, Latest News

Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar Successfully Launches New Tea Lounge Menu

Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar successfully hosted an engaging and vibrant Popcorn Themed celebration to mark the launch of its newly curated Tea Lounge menu. The exclusive event welcomed bloggers, media houses, and families for an afternoon filled with gourmet indulgence, interactive activities, and a first-hand preview of the refreshed menu offerings. The Tea Lounge, known for its relaxed and elegant ambiance, was transformed into a lively experiential space featuring live popcorn counters, caramel popcorn displays, and creatively curated sweet and savoury bites. The event offered guests an immersive experience combining flavour, fun, and aesthetic moments, making it an ideal setting for content creation and social engagement. Attendees explored the newly introduced Tea Lounge menu, which features thoughtfully curated Hi-Tea selections, artisanal sandwiches, innovative small plates, indulgent desserts, and a range of handcrafted teas and coffees. From classic comfort favourites to contemporary bites, the menu reflects a perfect balance of tradition and modern flavours, designed for casual meet-ups, business conversations, and leisurely high-tea experiences. Adding to the excitement, the event included interactive kids’ activities, including cupcake making sessions with our bakery chef, creating a lively and inclusive environment. Bloggers and media guests captured the vibrant décor, engaging setups, and curated culinary presentations, making the launch a memorable and visually appealing afternoon. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Anuj Soin, General Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar, said: “The launch of our new Tea Lounge menu was designed to offer guests a refreshing and interactive dining experience. We are delighted with the overwhelming response from bloggers and media, and this successful event reflects our commitment to creating unique culinary moments that bring people together in a warm and inviting setting. At Radisson Blu, we strongly believe that ‘we deliver memorable moments every day, everywhere , everytime.’ and this philosophy extends to how we create experiences that connect people and celebrate togetherness.” Executive Chef Manoj Rawat also shared his thoughts on the launch: “With the new Tea Lounge menu, our focus was on introducing comfort-driven yet creative offerings that complement the relaxed lounge experience. The popcorn-themed event allowed us to showcase playful flavours alongside refined high-tea selections, and we are thrilled with the enthusiastic response from our guests.” The successful launch highlighted Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar’s continued focus on innovative dining concepts and experiential hospitality. With its refreshed menu and inviting ambiance, the Tea Lounge is set to become a preferred destination for high tea, casual meetings, and relaxed indulgence in West Delhi. The event concluded on a high note, leaving guests with delightful flavours, engaging experiences, and a preview of the elevated Tea Lounge experience now available at Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar.

Hospitality, Latest News

SEETI 2.0 Puts Meghalaya on the Global Culinary Map Through Deep Cultural Immersion

SEETI 2.0, a five-day culinary immersion, brought together around 50 chefs, creators and storytellers for an experience that moved far beyond conventional food tourism. Designed as a deeply curated cultural platform, the programme enabled participants to experience Meghalaya through its communities, landscapes and living traditions. Unlike traditional festivals, the initiative prioritised meaningful engagement over surface-level exposure. Built on the idea of generosity and exchange, it created a space where the food and beverage community could come together not just to experience, but to contribute, collaborate and carry stories forward. The result was not a moment, but a growing body of ideas, relationships and narrative capital that extends well beyond the event. “This year’s Meghalaya experience was about doing things differently. We wanted to understand what we could bring to the North East, and equally what we could take from here to the rest of the country and the world. The focus was not just on showcasing food, but on creating platforms for local chefs and communities to participate, engage and lead the narrative,” said Priya Raje, Co-Founder of the SEETI Movement. The programme was preceded by nearly a year of on-ground research, mapping Meghalaya’s diverse food systems, communities and landscapes. This translated into a series of highly contextual experiences — from meals following visits to sacred forests to immersive sessions at tea estates overlooking Umiam Lake each designed to reflect the cultural and ecological depth of the region. The structure of the experience was rooted in the identities of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo communities. “Designed as a cultural platform rather than a conventional event, the focus was on creating real connections between people and place. When experiences are truly rooted, they shift from being observed to being felt. That sense of participation is what stays with you and what ultimately drives long-term impact,” said Sid Mewara, Co-Founder of the SEETI Movement. He added, “Many guests arrived with a limited understanding of the region’s food. What they discovered was a remarkable depth — from nuanced vegetarian traditions to layered, subtle flavours all set against some of the most striking natural environments in the country.” The programme also highlighted the inherent sustainability of local food systems from hyper-local sourcing and low-waste practices to deeply community-driven models of production and consumption. At the same time, it reinforced the importance of responsible tourism, encouraging engagement with heritage spaces such as sacred forests and community ecosystems with sensitivity and respect. While the on-ground experience was intentionally intimate, its impact has been designed to scale through its participants a curated mix of globally recognised chefs, hospitality leaders, investors, media and content creators. As storytellers, they extend the narrative into wider audiences, shaping how the region is seen, understood and experienced. The Meghalaya edition also intersected with the state’s Culinary Cascades initiative, enabling deeper engagement with local producers, chefs and stakeholders, along with conversations around the future of the region’s food, craft and cultural economy. Organisers acknowledged the role of the Meghalaya Government in enabling the initiative, noting that coordinated support across departments made it possible to execute a programme of this depth and scale. Such collaboration allows for the creation of platforms that extend far beyond individual events and begin to influence broader ecosystems. Following the success of the Meghalaya edition, the platform is now positioned to expand across the North East, the rest of India and international locations carrying forward a format that combines food, community and storytelling into a deeply immersive experience. A long-format film documenting the journey is also in development, further extending its reach.

Latest News

Discover What’s New in Kissimmee – Spring 2026

Stay in the know with all that’s happening in Kissimmee this spring! From milestone celebrations and immersive attractions to limited-time festivals, culinary experiences and family-friendly events, here’s the latest from across Kissimmee and Central Florida. Imagery ATTRACTIONS Blue Man Group makes its highly anticipated return to Orlando with a brand-new resident production at ICON Park, opening May 1, 2026. Hosted in the new Blue Man Theater, the reimagined show blends classic Blue Man Group moments with new content exclusive to Orlando. Audiences can expect a high-energy, multi-sensory experience filled with music, humor, cutting-edge technology and interactive surprises for all ages. Walt Disney World® is welcoming back beloved attractions and unveiling fresh experiences across its parks this spring. At Magic Kingdom® Park, fan-favorite adventures return with exciting updates. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reopens with refreshed targets and smoother gameplay, enhancing the interactive fun. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad also makes its comeback, featuring updated trains, new special effects and an expanded storyline that brings added depth to the Rainbow Caverns. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run will debut a brand-new mission beginning May 22, 2026. The adventure introduces Din Djarin and Grogu from The Mandalorian, adding fresh thrills to the immersive Star Wars experience. Meanwhile, EPCOT® comes alive with the International Flower & Garden Festival through June 1. Guests can explore the popular Garden Rocks Concert Series as spring blooms across the park. SeaWorld® Orlando welcomes back the Seven Seas Food Festival on select dates through May 17, offering more than 200 global flavors across nearly 30 marketplace huts, including eight new concepts, along with rotating menus and chef-driven dining experiences. New for 2026, the festival debuts a secret three-course dinner at Sharks Underwater Grill and monthly wine-pairing events.  Universal Orlando Resort kicks off 2026 with thrilling new experiences and fan-favorite celebrations. Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval returns through April 4. Guests can enjoy a vibrant New Orleans–style parade, more than 40 globally-inspired dishes and live concerts on select nights. At Universal Studios Florida, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will arrive in 2027. The high-speed roller coaster puts guests in the driver’s seat of the Fast & Furious universe, featuring 360-degree drifting and a 170-foot vertical spike that sends riders nearly 17 stories into the air. Old Town Entertainment District marks its 40th anniversary in 2026. Since 1986, this iconic Kissimmee destination has delivered classic Florida charm with shops, restaurants, rides and weekly events. Signature experiences include the longest-running weekly car cruise in America, free live music, Bike Night, karaoke and more.  WonderWorks Orlando celebrates its 28th anniversary in March 2026. New for spring 2026, the attraction introduces Super Blasters, an immersive simulator where guests compete in fast-paced virtual challenges, and SketchBot AI, a STEAM-inspired experience that transforms guest selfies into AI-generated caricatures. FESTIVALS & EVENTS Promenade at Sunset Walk introduces its Weekend Wellness Series this spring, offering complimentary fitness classes every Saturday at 10 a.m. Guests can take part in rotating sessions including yoga, Pilates, strength training and Zumba, along with live music, giveaways and special food and beverage discounts. Classes are free with registration and open to the public. Orlando Ballet presents its Spring 2026 season with a dynamic lineup of performances across Orlando. The season features The Great Gatsby (April 30–May 3), and Uncorked (May 8), an intimate behind-the-scenes experience. Guests can enjoy a mix of classical ballet, contemporary works, and immersive storytelling at multiple venues throughout the city. Orlando Family Stage presents a spring lineup of family-friendly performances. Highlights include Story Stroll: Story Stroll: Just Keep Strolling (April 4–18), and Disney and Pixar’s Finding Nemo (April 7–May 8). Each production is designed for young audiences and their families, offering engaging and interactive theatrical experiences. FOOD & BEVERAGE Paddlefish introduces a refreshed drink menu this spring, featuring seasonal selections designed to complement its signature seafood offerings. JoJo’s ShakeBAR debuts Dirty Sodas as a permanent menu feature. Guests can enjoy signature creations or craft their own fizzy combinations as part of a broader menu refresh that also includes new wraps, sandwiches, wings and brunch favorites. Caribbean Moonshine now offers two-hour private mixology tastings brought directly to guests’ homes, with experiences available for groups of 15 or more participants. Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is unveiling a new exclusive brew for guests: Palms Honeycomb Lager. Crafted in collaboration with Crooked Can Brewing Company, located in Winter Garden, this specialty lager features local honey harvested from the resort’s own on-site apiary. Situated on a southeast parcel of the property, the apiary also supplies honey to many of the resort’s restaurants, bringing a true taste of the destination to every pour. Experience Kissimmee, in partnership with Atlas Obscura, has launched the Latin Culinary Trail, a new immersive experience celebrating Osceola County’s rich Hispanic and Latino food culture. The trail features 20 handpicked restaurants, cafés, and food trucks—each highlighting the stories, flavors, and traditions that shape the region’s vibrant culinary landscape. From family-owned favorites like El Cilantrillo and La Mexicana Restaurant to community staples such as Food Trucks Heaven and Susana’s Café, the trail offers visitors a delicious way to explore Kissimmee’s cultural diversity. This collaboration also includes digital storytelling elements such as videos, podcasts and recipes, inviting travelers to experience the heart of Kissimmee through its food and the people who make it unforgettable. SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT Adding to its growing portfolio of experiences, Kissimmee will offer visitors the opportunity to experience authentic American football as the Jacksonville Jaguars head to Central Florida for the 2027 season. This creates a unique add-on for Indian travellers, allowing them to combine world-class theme parks with the high-energy atmosphere of the National Football League, while staying in spacious vacation homes ideal for families and groups. ACCOMMODATIONS Visions Resort & Spa will be a unique concept that pushes the boundaries of real estate to offer units accommodating all family needs in an exclusive environment. As part of the renowned Preferred Hotels & Resorts brand and the Ibero-American Association of Wellness

Food, Latest News

Odian Odyssey Food Festival at The Square, The Bheemilii Resort

Along the tranquil coastline of Bheemili, The Bheemili Resort presents the Odia Odyssey Food Festival at its all-day dining restaurant, The Square, from April 9 to April 18. Thoughtfully curated to showcase the essence of Odisha, the festival invites guests to explore a cuisine rooted in simplicity, balance, and deep cultural memory. Drawing from Odisha’s time-honoured culinary traditions, where seasonal ingredients and subtle techniques define the plate, the festival offers a menu that captures the region’s diverse and soulful flavours. Guests can savour an authentic selection of dishes including Mutton Aloo Jhola, Nadia Chingudi, Macha Ambula, Badi Besara, and other regional specialities, each prepared with an emphasis on traditional methods and nuanced flavour profiles. Complementing the food is a curated beverage selection featuring comforting classics such as badam milk alongside refreshing drinks inspired by local street-side favourites. Live cooking counters add an engaging, interactive dimension to the experience, while live music lends a relaxed and inviting atmosphere to the afternoon. Served as a specially curated buffet with welcome drinks, the Odia Odyssey Food Festival brings together authenticity, warmth, and a sense of place. With this showcase, The Bheemili Resort continues to craft immersive dining experiences that celebrate India’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. What: Odian Odyssey Food Festival When: 9th April to 18th April Where: The Square, The Bheemili Resort Time: 13:30 hrs to 15:30 hrs Price: INR 2499++ per person Reservations: 7799771602

Hotels, Latest News

IHG Hotels & Resorts signs Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba, strengthening presence in one of India’s leading leisure destinations

The 100-key hotel will cater to year-round leisure and business demand in Goa’s capital, Panaji IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a management agreement with NCPL for the development of Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba. The 100-key hotel, scheduled to open in Q1 2030, will mark a further addition to IHG’s growing portfolio in India’s key leisure markets. As one of IHG’s most recognised brands globally, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts® is built on a service philosophy centered around helping guests realise the true value of travel. With a focus on creating brighter stays and delivering warm, intuitive service that evokes genuine smiles, Holiday Inn is designed to ensure that every moment, big or small, is meaningful for travellers on the road. Located in Kadamba, Panaji, the 100-key hotel is strategically positioned to offer seamless access to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Fontainhas Latin Quarter, Mandovi River Promenade, and Dona Paula. The hotel will provide a central base for travellers to experience Goa’s rich cultural heritage alongside its scenic coastal charm, while also being in close proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Churches and Convents of Goa. Commenting on the signing, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “Goa continues to be one of India’s most sought-after travel destinations, renowned for its unique blend of cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and strong year-round demand. The signing of Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba aligns with our strategy to expand in high-potential leisure markets across the country, and we are pleased to partner with NCPL to bring this hotel to life. With its prime location in Panaji and strong brand proposition, the hotel is well-positioned to cater to a diverse mix of leisure and business travellers.” Mr. Miket Kankia, Director, NCPL added: “We are delighted to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to introduce Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba. Panaji’s distinctive positioning as both a cultural and administrative hub makes it an attractive destination for hospitality development. Backed by IHG’s global expertise and strong brand recognition, we are confident that the hotel will deliver high-quality experiences and become a preferred choice for travellers visiting Goa.” Goa remains one of India’s most prominent tourism markets, supported by strong infrastructure and connectivity, including two operational airports. The state attracts a significant volume of domestic and international visitors, driven by its beaches, heritage precincts, and vibrant lifestyle offerings. Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba will feature a comprehensive range of amenities, including five food and beverage outlets comprising an all-day dining restaurant, specialty restaurant, bar, lobby lounge, and pool bar. The hotel will also offer three meeting and event spaces, including a ballroom, along with a swimming pool, fitness center, spa, and ample parking facilities, catering to both leisure and corporate travellers. IHG® currently has 51 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 89 hotels due to open in the next 3-5 years.

Hotels, Latest News

Urban Square Mall, Udaipur, Announces Opening of ‘The Banquet’ at Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels

Udaipur’s largest retail destination, Urban Square Mall, has announced the opening of ‘The Banquet’ at Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels, marking a strategic expansion of its hospitality and experiential offerings. Positioned as a contemporary event venue, The Banquet spans approximately 5000 sq. ft. and has a hosting capacity of 150-200 guests, making it suitable for a wide range of social and corporate gatherings. The space has been designed with a focus on functionality and flexibility, enabling it to accommodate diverse event formats while ensuring operational efficiency and a consistent guest experience. Located on the ground floor of the Hotel, the addition aligns with the asset’s broader vision of integrating retail, leisure, and hospitality into a unified ecosystem. The development comes at a time when Udaipur is witnessing increasing demand for organised, high-quality event infrastructure, driven by both private celebrations and corporate engagements. Commenting on the inauguration, Uddhav Poddar, CMD, Bhumika Group, said, “At Bhumika Group, our approach has been to expand beyond conventional retail into a more integrated mix that includes hospitality and experience-led formats. The introduction of ‘The Banquet’ is part of that broader evolution at Urban Square Mall. We are seeing a clear shift in how consumers engage with spaces today; how they are looking for destinations that seamlessly bring together shopping, dining, and social experiences. With this addition, we are not only strengthening our hospitality footprint but also enhancing the overall relevance of the asset in a way that is both demand-led and operationally sustainable.” Nandini Taneja, CEO, Bhumika Enterprises, added, “Our focus with ‘The Banquet’ has been on creating a venue that is efficient, adaptable, and aligned with the expectations of today’s users. There is a clear shift towards professionally managed spaces that can seamlessly host both social and corporate engagements without compromising on experience. This facility has been planned to deliver consistency across service, layout, and execution, while remaining flexible enough to cater to varied event requirements. It strengthens our broader vision of building destinations that are not only well-designed, but also intuitive in how they function on a day-to-day basis.” With this launch, Urban Square Mall continues to cater as a multi-dimensional destination, addressing not only shopping and entertainment needs but also curated, experience-led interactions.

Hotels, Latest News

Grand Continent Hotels Strengthens Presence in Spiritual Tourism with Rameshwaram Launch

Marks milestone 31st property; reinforces focus on pilgrimage-led hospitality markets  Grand Continent Hotels Limited has announced the launch of its new property in Rameshwaram, one of India’s most significant pilgrimage destinations, marking the brand’s 31st hotel. Located on Pamban Island, the contemporary four-star vegetarian hotel reflects the company’s continued focus on expanding in high-demand spiritual and leisure travel markets across India. The launch underscores the brand’s strategic emphasis on destinations witnessing consistent year-round footfall driven by pilgrimage tourism apart from key Business Cities. With Rameshwaram attracting a steady influx of domestic travellers, families, and spiritual seekers, the property is positioned to offer a comfortable, hygienic, and well-connected stay experience close to key landmarks. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ramesh Shiva, Founder & Managing Director, Grand Continent Hotels Limited, said, “The launch of our Rameshwaram property marks an important milestone as our 31st hotel and reinforces our focus on high-potential pilgrimage destinations. South India continues to be a strong growth market for us and we see sustained demand in destinations like Rameshwaram where travellers seek reliable, comfortable, and well-located accommodation. Going forward, we are coming up at Somnath, Varanasi and Ayodhya as we aim to expand across key high-demand micro-markets as we work towards building a 3,000-key portfolio over the next few years, while continuing to focus on operational consistency and guest experience.” The launch comes at a time when Grand Continent Hotels has expanded its portfolio to 31 properties across 17+ cities with over 1,850 keys, reflecting steady growth driven by its asset-light model. The company continues to see strong demand across spiritual circuits as well as emerging leisure destinations, which are increasingly driving organised hospitality growth. With a strong foundation in South India and a growing presence across North India, along with international markets such as Dubai and the USA, the company remains focused on building a scalable and sustainable hospitality network. Expansion plans will continue to prioritise high-demand micro-markets, including pilgrimage destinations, business hubs, and leisure-driven locations. The Rameshwaram hotel features 48 well-appointed rooms across categories including Grand Suite Rooms, Premium Rooms with Balcony, Grand Family Rooms, and Deluxe Rooms, designed with contemporary interiors and equipped with essential amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, smart TV, tea and coffee maker, electronic safe, and 24-hour hot water, along with wheelchair access for added convenience. The property also houses Flavours, a multi-cuisine pure vegetarian restaurant with 48 covers, offering Jain and Satvik meal options suited to the preferences of pilgrimage travellers, along with a dedicated play zone for families. Strategically located, the hotel provides easy access to key landmarks including Ramanathaswamy Temple (1.9 km), Rameshwaram Railway Station (within walking distance), Agnitheertham (2.9 km), and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam National Memorial (5 km), making it a convenient choice for both religious and leisure visitors. Founded in 2011 by Mr. Ramesh Shiva, a hospitality professional with over three decades of experience, Grand Continent Hotels Limited has grown from a single 54-room property in Bengaluru to a 31-property portfolio with over 1,850 keys. The company has scaled through a disciplined, asset-light, lease-led model and achieved a consolidated topline of ₹73 crore. It was successfully listed on the NSE SME platform in March 2025 and is now targeting a 3,000-key portfolio across key domestic and select international markets.

Hospitality, Latest News

Changing Aspirations of Premium Homebuyers in NCR

For years, NCR’s housing narrative was anchored where value was measured in price points and access. Today, that paradigm is being rewritten. Homeownership is becoming an expression of aspiration, identity, and long-term lifestyle alignment. What was once considered “premium” has begun to move into the mainstream consciousness, not as an upgrade, but as an expectation. This shift is underscored by the fact that a significant share of recent housing demand in NCR is now concentrated in the Rs. 1 crore-plus segment, signalling that the market is evolving. Knight Frank India’s latest report has noted a notable change in the market where houses with a price tag of above Rs 10 million accounted for 50% of the total residential sales in the top eight cities of India in 2025. Out of a total of 348,247 units sold during the year, about 175,091 units belonged to the category of houses with a price tag of above Rs 10 million, which is an increase of 14% over the previous year, with sales volumes staying flat and high. Besides, the definition of “premium” in NCR’s housing market is seeing a shift. It is no longer defined by a price bracket or a ticket price level; instead, it is being redefined in terms of experiences, design, and identity. Today’s premium home is just as much about experiences and living as it is about price. This is also reflected in the supply side, where an increasing proportion of supply is aligned to this new premium, and in the buyer profile, where there is an expansion of this market across a broader spectrum of price points. Premium, therefore, is no longer an economic definition but a conceptual one, based on how people want to live, and not merely on what they can afford. Another aspect of equal importance is the emergence of a new form of a premium homebuyer, whose characteristics have moved beyond just a high net-worth individual. A staggering 63% of homebuyers today classify real estate as a preferred investment option, which reflects a more financially savvy approach to homebuying. This trend is now being fueled by dual-income households, along with a new set of wealth creators from startup economies and GCC-led employment growth. What is particularly telling is the widening participation across ticket sizes, from the Rs. 1–3 crore bracket to higher-value segments, indicating that premium housing is no longer the preserve of legacy capital. Instead, it is being shaped by an aspirational, upwardly mobile buyer class whose purchasing power is matched by a clear intent to upgrade both lifestyle and asset quality. Further, the demand is increasingly concentrated in new premium locations like Dwarka Expressway and Noida Expressway, which are driving nearly 75–80% of the high-value transactions, reflecting the trend towards planned and low-density living. Developments such as MRG Crown, fronting Dwarka Expressway in Sector 106, Gurugram, exemplify this shift, where projects are being positioned around curated living environments, improved connectivity, and access to emerging urban infrastructure.   “As homebuyers become more discerning, the focus is clearly shifting towards integrated living environments where connectivity, planning, and lifestyle come together seamlessly. Infrastructure-led corridors like Dwarka Expressway are driving this transformation and redefining what premium living means in NCR,” said Rajjath Goel, Managing Director, MRG Group. At the same time, even as the overall volumes are moderating, the trend in value growth is still dominated by larger configurations, reflecting a decisive shift towards more expansive and functional living spaces. It is not just about living in bigger homes; it is about investing in more efficient living. The fact is, people are not paying for space; they are paying for how well that space is optimized. There is a parallel change in the manner in which houses are perceived as living spaces. This is also evident in the supply side, where premium houses now make up almost 74% of new launches in the NCR region, similar to the demand side, which is actively seeking more than just space. This is also evident in the prices, where there is an increase of almost 14% in residential prices, mainly due to the sustained performance in premium houses. There is also a trend towards homes that are providing a cohesive living experience. The rise of gated communities is also a reflection of this trend, and it is clear that for the new-age premium buyer, the product is not just the apartment. Moreover, another significant change in definition relates to the way in which location is being judged and measured, as buyers are now focusing more on micro-market intelligence as compared to city-level intelligence. The fact that premium homes in NCR are now clearly seen to be appreciating in clusters along infrastructure-led corridors, where connectivity and growth potential are at their highest, underlines the fact that the NCR market as a whole has seen a significant appreciation in property values to the tune of almost 24% on a yearly basis. Corridors such as Dwarka Expressway and Southern Peripheral Road are now seen as primary options as compared to peripheral options, and this can be attributed to the fact that there has been sustained government investment in road infrastructure, as well as in the expansion of the Metro and reduction in travel times. The fact remains that the premium homebuyer of today is no longer constrained by traditional CBDs but is making decisions based on where the city is going, as opposed to where it has been. The evolution of buyer aspirations is also being mirrored in developer strategies in NCR, although not as a catalyst but rather as a response to the changing aspirations of the buyer. This is also being reflected in a gradual move towards fewer, better-curated launches, where quality is being given greater importance over quantity. Hence, supply is not being pushed into the market but rather being curated in response to a more evolved buyer, thereby reflecting a greater degree of coherence between what is being supplied and what is being demanded. It is, therefore, in

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