Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited (ASPHL) is pleased to announce the signing of a definitive hotel management agreement for the development of Zone by The Park, Indore, located within the upcoming Alankrit Film City. This 117-key hotel will bring the brand’s signature design-led, social and vibrant hospitality to one of Madhya Pradesh’s fastest-growing urban hubs.

Strategically positioned just 30 minutes from Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, Zone by The Park, Indore is set amidst the state’s first-of-its-kind film city development. Alankrit Film City is envisioned as a cultural and entertainment destination, offering multiple shooting locations, thematic gardens, film sets, recreational parks and a dedicated wedding mandapam—making the hotel a prime location for both business and leisure travelers.

The hotel will feature thoughtfully curated experiences including Bazaar – the all-day dining restaurant, Z Bar – a high-energy bar, Vitalia Spa, and Playa – the pool. In addition, a range of indoor and outdoor banquet spaces will offer the ideal setting for social celebrations, weddings, and corporate gatherings.

Commenting on the signing, Vikas Ahluwalia, General Manager and National Head, Zone by The Park Hotels, said, “We are thrilled to bring Zone by The Park to the dynamic city of Indore. With its strategic location inside the Alankrit Film City and a vibrant blend of hospitality, design, and entertainment, the hotel will be a landmark destination. This signing further strengthens our presence in Central India and reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences across emerging markets.”

Ravish Jain, Partner RR Jain Infra opined, “We are happy to partner with Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited- one of the oldest hospitality brands who has been delivering unmatched guest’s experience. This partnership provides us with an incredible opportunity to reach more travellers.”

With this addition, ASPHL continues to grow its Zone by The Park portfolio, offering upper mid-scale hotels that are stylish, social, and rooted in local culture.

Heavenly Massages

We indulged in two divine massages: Full Body Massage and Potli Massage. The skilled masseuses worked wonders on our tired muscles, easing tension and melting stress away. The Potli Massage, with its warm herbal poultices, was particularly delightful, leaving our skin feeling soft and nourished.

Exceptional Service

The masseuses were paragons of politeness, gentleness, and friendliness. Their soothing touch and calming demeanor created a peaceful ambiance, allowing us to fully unwind.

Cosy and Hygienic Environment

The spa’s environment was impeccably maintained, exuding warmth and coziness. The attention to hygiene was evident, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.

Rejuvenating Experience

Our visit to Tattva Spa was truly rejuvenating. The combination of skilled therapists, relaxing treatments, and serene ambiance made for an unforgettable experience. Whether seeking relief from stress or simply some me-time, Tattva Spa is an ideal haven.

If you’re looking for a genuine spa experience, look no further than Tattva Spa at Courtyard Aravali Resort. Book your appointment and let the expert therapists pamper you with their exceptional skills and warm hospitality.

We left feeling refreshed, revitalized, and eager to return. Tattva Spa’s commitment to providing a peaceful and rejuvenating experience shines through in every aspect of their service. Treat yourself to a blissful experience at Tattva Spa – your mind, body, and soul will thank you.

Where- Courtyard Aravali Resorts
Rating- 4.5

What inspired the reimagining of Byg Brewski’s menu…

At Byg Brewski, we’ve always believed in pushing the boundaries of what a brewpub can offer. The idea behind the new menu was born from a desire to elevate the guest experience and respond to the growing demand for curated, immersive dining. Today, guests are not just looking for a meal—they’re seeking a story, an experience that lingers beyond the last bite. By pairing our signature craft beers with globally inspired dishes, we’re creating an environment where beer is no longer just a beverage but an integral part of the dining narrative. This reimagined menu reflects our commitment to innovation and positions us as pioneers in India’s evolving F&B landscape. It’s not merely a revamp—it’s a bold step forward in redefining beer cuisine and enriching our patrons’ journey with every visit to Byg Brewski.

2. How does the new menu contribute to enhancing craft beer culture in India?

India’s craft beer culture is growing rapidly, but there’s still vast potential to explore. At Byg Brewski, we see food as a powerful medium to introduce guests to the depth and diversity of craft beer. Our new menu is designed to highlight the interplay between flavor profiles—how a smoky ale can elevate a spicy entrée, or how citrus notes in a beer can accentuate a fresh salad. By making beer the focal point of the culinary experience, we’re educating palates and fostering a deeper appreciation for artisanal brewing. This approach promotes mindful consumption and elevates beer from a casual drink to a gourmet experience. We’re not just serving food and beer—we’re creating a platform for discovery, which is essential to cultivating a mature and vibrant craft beer culture in India.

3. Can you tell us more about the collaboration between the culinary and brewing teams…

The collaboration between our culinary and brewing teams has been the driving force behind this menu transformation. We approached the process as a creative fusion—where each dish and each beer had to work in harmony to create a memorable experience. Klinth Lissy Crasta, our culinary visionary, led the charge with an unwavering commitment to innovation. She worked hand-in-hand with our master brewers, engaging in extensive tasting sessions and exploring countless ingredient combinations to craft dishes that not only complemented our beers but also elevated their profiles. For instance, our smoked pineapple ale found its perfect match in dishes that feature charred or spicy notes, creating a delightful contrast. This was more than a pairing exercise—it was an artistic collaboration that brought out the best in both food and beer. The result is a menu that tells a flavorful story, built on passion, craftsmanship, and a shared love for culinary excellence.

4. With locations across Bengaluru, how do you ensure consistency…

Consistency in guest experience is critical, especially when serving over 75,000 guests a month across multiple locations. At the same time, we understand the value of offering a localized and fresh experience at each venue. To strike that balance, we’ve implemented a standardized training program for our chefs and front-of-house teams—ensuring they understand not just the recipes, but the philosophy behind each dish and pairing. Simultaneously, we allow for some creative flexibility based on local preferences, seasonal ingredients, and special events. This ensures that each outlet—whether in Hennur, Sarjapur, or Yeshwanthpur—delivers the signature Byg Brewski experience while maintaining a unique character. Ultimately, our goal is to make every visit feel distinct yet unmistakably part of the Byg Brewski journey.

5. What’s next for Byg Brewski in terms of innovation and expansion?

The reimagined menu is just one of many exciting chapters in our journey. Moving forward, we’re exploring innovations in experiential dining—such as beer tasting trails, chef’s table dinners, and immersive events that bring brewing and cooking to life for our guests. We also plan to expand beyond Bengaluru, entering new markets where craft beer culture is gaining momentum. In addition, we’re investing in technological enhancements, sustainability initiatives, and community engagement. Our vision is to position Byg Brewski as a benchmark for brewpub excellence in India—a place where people come not just to eat or drink, but to connect, learn, and experience something truly memorable. Innovation remains our compass, and the road ahead is full of exciting opportunities.

6. How do you see the evolving consumer palate influencing…

Today’s consumers are more adventurous and informed than ever before. They’re not just eating—they’re exploring, experimenting, and seeking authenticity. This evolution has deeply influenced our food and brewing strategies. At Byg Brewski, we’ve embraced bold flavors, fusion ideas, and a strong focus on quality ingredients. Guests are eager to try beers with unique infusions or dishes with unexpected global influences, and our menu reflects that curiosity. We’re also responding to the growing demand for transparency and sustainability by sourcing local, seasonal produce and brewing with purpose. This evolving palate challenges us—in the best way—to constantly innovate while remaining true to our brand ethos. It’s a dynamic relationship: as our patrons grow in taste and awareness, so do we.

The initiative aligns with India’s aim to position itself as a preferred destination for international conferences and events, offering top-notch venues alongside cultural richness. NIMA is committed to working with government entities, travel experts and international stakeholders to strengthen India’s presence in the MICE sector. This announcement reflects NIMA’s dedication to promoting India’s excellence in MICE tourism worldwide.

Earlier this year, NIMA celebrated a decade of progress by marking 21st June as “World MICE Tourism Day,” symbolising its commitment to elevate India’s role in global tourism. Vikas Khanduri, NIMA’s Advisor, sees India’s potential to lead the MICE sector as vast, given the synergy between tourism and large-scale business events. He remarked that India’s unique cultural heritage, extensive tourism offerings, and competitive pricing make it ideal for the conferencing market. Khanduri envisions “World MICE Tourism Day” celebrated alongside World Yoga Day as a reflection of India’s leadership in both wellness and conferencing. “India has already proven that it can lead with Yoga, and now it’s time for us to showcase our leadership in the MICE industry,” he added.

NIMA co-founder Gajesh Girdhar emphasised the need for professionalism in India’s MICE industry to elevate the country’s global presence, stating, “For India to truly dominate the global MICE landscape, it’s essential that we raise awareness within the industry about how India can manage large-scale events with the utmost professionalism.” Girdhar aims to see India become the preferred destination for MICE events, not only for affordability and variety but also for its ability to handle large gatherings with precision akin to established hubs like Singapore and Dubai. By incorporating global best practices, NIMA strives to build a more knowledgeable and prepared MICE ecosystem.

A key initiative proposed by NIMA is to integrate “Yoga and Conferencing” to offer global participants a holistic experience. Rakesh Arora, NIMA’s Coordinator of Administration, Finance, and Membership, suggested that this approach could create a unique MICE offering by linking yoga, a globally recognised symbol of Indian wellness, with business events. Arora noted, “The government should seriously consider formalising this thought. When global MICE participants experience India’s holistic wellness traditions alongside their business conferences, it will elevate the impact of these events and promote Indian tourism on a global scale.”

Another cornerstone of NIMA’s strategy involves strong public-private partnerships, which Arora believes are essential for keeping India competitive in the global MICE market. He pointed out that India’s advantages, such as competitive pricing, diverse destinations and enthusiasm for hosting international events, combined with government support for new conference venues, position the country as a major player in the MICE market. NIMA also calls for government investment in training across all segments of the MICE workforce, from event organisers and hospitality staff to transport and visa facilitators, ensuring a high-quality experience for global delegates.

As India prepares to take a central role in the “ASEAN-India Year of Tourism in 2025,” NIMA’s vision for a Global MICE Day and India’s future as a MICE hub dovetails with the Prime Minister’s tourism agenda. NIMA believes that India can become a global leader in the MICE industry by fostering collaboration, upholding professional excellence and blending cultural heritage with modern conferencing. With optimism, NIMA’s leadership looks forward to collaborating closely with government and industry partners to strengthen India’s global MICE standing, welcoming the world to India for conferences and unforgettable travel experiences.

Each Arabian House, a true gem of heritage and design, includes a traditional majlis and a secluded courtyard, along with nine to eleven private rooms and suites that reflect a deep connection to their surroundings. When reserved exclusively, an Arabian House offers adaptable accommodation for larger gatherings or multi-generational family stays. With attentive hosts enhancing the experience, guests are free to set their own pace, whether it’s unwinding on golden sands, relaxing by tranquil pools, or immersing in the vibrant atmosphere of Madinat Jumeirah.

Guests can enjoy Dubai’s rich cultural heritage through exclusive experiences, starting with a grand arrival by traditional abra boats gliding along winding waterways. Passing through grand wooden doors, guests are warmly welcomed by their host. Gathering spaces like the majlis—a traditional Arabic ‘sitting room’—become centres of connection, where local delights such as hand-picked teas and artisanal brews are shared alongside complimentary daily aperitifs. Quiet courtyards and spacious terraces offer moments of reflection, while the ritual of bakhoor burning adds a peaceful, culturally significant aroma to the experience. Other unique touches include a tree-planting ceremony for a lasting legacy and a daily candy bicycle visit for children.

Guests at Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf also enjoy access to Madinat Jumeirah’s energetic offerings, which include over 50 restaurants and bars, a private beachfront, the holistic Talise Spa, a newly refurbished Kids’ Club with mini-golf and the J Club—all accessible by foot or a scenic abra ride. This refurbishment reaffirms Dubai’s largest resort’s commitment to personalised luxury, building on the recent reimagining of the Malakiya Villas, unveiled in early 2023.

“The unveiling of the Arabian Houses marks a significant milestone for Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf as we celebrate our 20th anniversary,” said Peter Roth, Regional Vice President at Madinat Jumeirah and General Manager of Jumeirah Al Qasr. “This is a moment to honour our rich history while looking forward to the future of this treasured resort. Madinat Jumeirah inspired a new approach to hospitality in Dubai two decades ago, and with that legacy comes the responsibility to continuously innovate. As demand for authentic travel experiences grows, Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf remains steadfast in its commitment to offering traditional Arabian hospitality matched with moments of enriched connection and conversation, bespoke to every guest.”

Speaking on the refurbishment, Sahar Al Yaseer, Founder of La Bottega Interiors added: “It was an honour to collaborate with Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf on the refurbishment of its stunning Arabian Houses. Our vision was to create a realm where interior design transcends the ordinary, embracing the essence of Arabia with an artful fusion of authenticity and contemporary palettes to cultivate a sense of profound peace.”

The refurbishment underscores Dubai’s largest resort’s ongoing commitment to creating bespoke experiences, following the recent remodelling of the Malakiya Villas unveiled in early 2023.

The service will be operated by the modern Airbus 737-800, which boasts 189 comfortable seats. In celebration of this launch, Nok Air hosted a pre-launch event on October 18 at the Radisson Blu in Mumbai. Attendees included Chief Commercial Officer Ranon Viputsiri, Thai Consul General Donnawit Poolsawat, representatives from the Thai Tourism Authority, along with key travel agents, tour operators and online travel agencies.

“Our new service represents a pivotal milestone for Nok Air as we strengthen our international network as a premium budget airline,” said Ranon Viputsiri, Chief Commercial Officer of Nok Air. “This enhanced connectivity between India and Bangkok will position Bangkok as a key gateway to Thailand, providing travellers seamless access to renowned destinations like Phuket and Chiang Mai, as well as lesser-known gems such as Chiang Rai, Nan, Trang, and many more ensuring a strong comprehensive travel experience.”

Nok Air is dedicated to providing an exceptional flying experience at an affordable price, reflected in its tagline, “We Fly Smiles.” Passengers can choose from two ticket types— Nok Air X-tra and Nok Max—each designed for comfort and convenience.

– Nok Air X-tra: Includes 20 kg of checked luggage, 7 kg of carry-on baggage, premium seating options, inflight entertainment and a complimentary snack box with a water bottle.

– Nok Max: Includes 30 kg of checked luggage, 7 kg of carry-on baggage, premium seating and a complimentary hot meal with Indian vegetarian or non-vegetarian options.

India is the third largest source of visitors to Thailand, with one million Indian tourists visiting between January and June 2024. Nok Air will operate a total of 12 flights between India and Thailand, including four weekly flights from Hyderabad and eight from Mumbai, offering passengers convenient flight times and premium services.

This Diwali, visitors can enjoy a daily Indian cuisine corner at the Ranba Restaurant, curated by the resort’s skilled culinary experts, Chef Deep Singh and Chef Manoj. The exceptional dining experience will feature an array of vegetarian dishes and live cooking stations, offering a buffet showcasing the best of Indian cuisine.

Guests are also invited to partake in the traditional Diya Lighting Ceremony, a ritual symbolising the welcoming of light and prosperity. The festivities will continue with a colourful Mehndi experience, where the artistry of intricate henna designs will be on display.

For young adventurers, the ‘Float Your Boat’ activity provides a fun-filled experience. Guided by the resort’s talented recreation team, children will design, build, decorate, and race their own handcrafted boats at the Bandhi Pool Bar.

As the evening unfolds, the Bandhi Pool Bar will host ‘The Great Indian Disco’, where guests can dance to Indian tunes mixed by resident DJ Tiddy, while enjoying a selection of spicy Indian-inspired drinks to keep the festive spirit going.

To capture the essence of the celebrations, guests can take memorable photos at the exclusive Diwali-themed photobooth, ensuring that the joy of the occasion is preserved long after the festivities conclude.
Heritance Aarah Maldives welcomes guests to immerse themselves in these vibrant Diwali celebrations, offering a unique blend of culture, exceptional dining across seven restaurants and five bars, and warm camaraderie, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Maldives.

Passengers can look forward to 90 new sailings on Cunard’s distinguished fleet of four Queens: the flagship Queen Mary 2, the latest addition Queen Anne, alongside Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth.

These fresh itineraries encompass 101 distinct destinations across 57 countries, featuring 62 UNESCO World Heritage sites. The programme includes 22 overnight port stops and 26 late-evening departures, providing guests with ample opportunities to discover the world. Noteworthy highlights include the fleet’s first visits to Ferrol, Spain and Acajutla, El Salvador, both on board Queen Victoria.

Members of the Cunard World Club will enjoy early booking access starting at 1 pm on 16 October 2024, ahead of the general public launch at 1 pm on 17 October 2024. Also guests who secure a place on one of Cunard’s new voyages between 16 October and 9 December 2024 will benefit from a 10% Early Booking Saving. This offer applies to selected voyages departing between 15 October 2026 and 30 April 2027 when booking a Cunard Fare or Early Saver Fare.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said, “We are hugely excited to reveal our exciting new programme from October 2026 to April 2027, offering exceptional choice for every traveller. Whether you’re soaking up the excitement in Rio during Carnival or toasting New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam, Cunard’s voyages allow you to explore the world in unparalleled luxury.”

During a special briefing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Laos, Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs, revealed that 2025 will be celebrated as the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism. These efforts were part of a broader 10-point action plan, unveiled by PM Modi, aimed at reinforcing connectivity and strengthening the resilience of ASEAN nations in collaboration with India.

This year also commemorates a decade since the inception of India’s Act East Policy. According to the MEA Secretary, ASEAN nations have given a favourable assessment of India’s contributions, particularly in the realm of digital public infrastructure and its collaborative efforts across multiple sectors under this policy.

ASEAN leaders and Prime Minister Modi reviewed the comprehensive relationship between ASEAN and India. The leaders expressed appreciation for India’s diverse collaborations through the Act East Policy, particularly noting India’s pivotal role in digital public infrastructure, which is poised to significantly benefit ASEAN nations.

PM Modi announced a 10-point action plan aimed at enhancing connectivity and resilience with ASEAN. Among the various initiatives is the decision to celebrate 2025 as the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism. The announcement of India’s commitment of USD 5 million towards joint tourism activities was warmly received by ASEAN leaders, marking a positive development in the region’s cooperation with India. Several people-centric initiatives were also introduced to celebrate the 10-year milestone of the Act East Policy.

Mazumdar underscored the importance of PM Modi’s participation in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit, which underscored India’s focus and commitment to the region and the East Asia Process.
PM’s attendance at these summits holds special significance as this year marks the 10th anniversary of the Act East Policy. His participation for the 11th time in these meetings exemplifies India’s ongoing commitment to ASEAN and the broader East Asia Process.

Mazumdar also clarified that only a Chair statement, and not a Leaders’ statement, was issued at the East Asia Summit due to irreconcilable differences in the discussions over certain formulations.
PM Modi’s two-day visit to Laos, held from October 10-11 at the invitation of Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, saw his participation in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit. In addition to these, he held bilateral meetings with leaders from Laos, Thailand and New Zealand, as well as South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and newly elected Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

The ‘Together in Travel’ platform is crafted to equip SMEs with the necessary tools and guidance to accelerate business growth, ensuring their voices are amplified on a global stage.

Speaking at the global tourism body’s 24th Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia, Julia Simpson, President and CEO, WTTC, said, “SMEs are a cornerstone of Travel and Tourism with millions of small enterprises providing services to customers, creating innovative start-ups and providing local knowledge to larger partners.”
Subscribers to this dynamic, free-to-join platform will gain access to a vast array of content, networking opportunities and educational programmes.

In the coming year, additional paid subscription options will be introduced, providing enhanced features and benefits designed to further aid SMEs on their path to success. For the first time, these enterprises can participate in a community where they can exchange ideas and resources to strengthen their businesses.

Matthew Upchurch, Vice Chair of Membership at WTTC and Chairman and CEO of Virtuoso, said, “The launch of the ‘Together in Travel’ community marks a significant milestone for WTTC in its mission to advocate for the interests of SMEs within the travel industry and drive positive change through meaningful engagement and support.”

The WTTC is forecasting a record-breaking year for travel and tourism in 2024, with the sector’s global economic contribution expected to reach an unprecedented USD 11.1 trillion.

SMEs are pivotal in fostering entrepreneurship and driving innovation within the industry. Many of today’s leading companies started as ideas around the kitchen table. It is estimated that up to 80 per cent of the sector is made up of SMEs, underscoring the importance of structured support to enhance productivity and impact.