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 Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 came to a grand conclusion, leaving the festival-goers amazed with a legendary lineup of performances, cultural showcases, and fun activities that made this year’s event truly unforgettable. Held at the RBDSA Sports Complex, the two-day festival attracted more than 50,000 visitors each day, celebrating music, at the “Music Capital of India”.

The final day was a fitting climax. Internationally acclaimed British band Clean Bandit delivering an electrifying performance that had the audience swaying to their global hits. Bollywood sensation Kanika Kapoor added her signature charm, while Dutch-Moroccan DJ R3HAB brought the house down with his high-energy beats, transforming the arena into a pulsating dance floor. Local stars, including Khasi Bloodz and SK Korn, continued to shine, representing the vibrant talent of Meghalaya and showcasing the region’s deep connection to music.

The festival kicked off on November 15 with a spectacular Day 1, headlined by global R&B icon Akon, who mesmerized the crowd with hits from his Superfan Tour. Legendary band Boney M, on their Farewell Tour, delivered a nostalgic performance. Other highlights include renditions by Jasleen Royal, an electrifying show by international artist Lucas, and powerful performances by regional favourites like The Great Society, Rito Riba and Queen Sensation. The day also featured the highly anticipated Sakura Fashion Design Contest, alongside art installations and diverse food stalls that kept the crowd engaged throughout.

Adding to the festival’s success, the Japan Arena stood out as a hub, hosting anime screenings, cosplay competitions, and interactive activities that drew in fans of all ages. Across both days, visitors also enjoyed karaoke sessions, sumo wrestling demonstrations, and a host of engaging activities in the Japanese arena that made the festival an inclusive experience for all.

Akon, who arrived Assam yesterday was welcomed with a spectacular Khasi Welcome to Northeast at Hotel Mayfair Guwahati. Followed which, he also experienced a traditional welcome by the Khasi Seng Community.

The relentless efforts of Government of Meghalaya, through these festivals not only brings thousands of tourists to the state, creating an exceptional example of boosting economic growth but also promotes the local and aspiring stars of Meghalaya making the MGMP Artists perform at such a big platform. While inaugurating the festival yesterday, Hon’ble DoNER Minister Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia shared his incredible experience saying he has never seen such energy in any festival across India. He lauded the efforts of the Government and the people of Meghalaya, saying, “Hats off to Conrad; hats off to you all(the people of Meghalaya)”

Under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma, the government has worked tirelessly to elevate the festival’s stature on the global stage. The seamless organization, diverse programming, and focus on showcasing local talent alongside international stars exemplify the vision and dedication of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, who is himself a musician and an ardent lover of music.

• As the curtain falls on this year’s festivities, the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival has once again proven to be a landmark event, bringing together the best of global and local culture while celebrating the unique beauty of Meghalaya’s Cherry
  

  Blossoms.

In his keynote address at the Closing Ceremony, His Excellency Firat Sunel, stated, “Literature is a vessel that carries the voices of all who came before us. It allows us to hear voices that has been marginalised and silenced in official histories. With the forgotten folklore project in Shillong, Meghalaya has shown its commitment for protection of its cultural heritage.” He said, “Meghalaya is a state of nature borne musicians.” He lauded the musical talent the state hold and invited the musicians of Meghalaya to perform in Turkiye.

Hon’ble Tourism Minister Bah Paul Lyngdoh stated, “It is indeed a privilege for me to bring the curtains down for the 4th edition of Lit Fest, 2024.” He said that this edition of Shillong Literary Festival has been the most successful edition of the literary festivals. “Lit Fest, 2024 is just a precursor for the next level where we will elevate and enhance the experience of literature.” He thanked his excellency, the Ambassador of Turkiye for inviting musicians of Meghalaya and accepted the invitation stating that the state will certainly take its best musicians to perform in Turkiye. Cuisine, culture, climate, customs- all of these are very strong and powerful USPs of Meghalaya, as a state.

Day Three of the festival opened with ‘The Lighthouse Family’, a candid conversation with His Excellency Firat Sunel, Ambassador of Türkiye, moderated by Cyril V. D. Diengdoh, IAS, Director of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya. His excellency Firat Sunel gave an eloquent introduction into his book where he took the audience to the “historical fiction set against the backdrop of Second World War.” On being asked about how he manages diplomacy and literature together, he added, “As a diplomat you meet a lot of people. You don’t need to run behind the story. The story comes to you.”

The session Words on Screen: Bollywood x Northeast, featuring Nicholas Kharkongor, Director of Axone and Nancy Nisa Beso in conversation with Mayank Shekhar, explored the intricate relationship between the film industry and the representation of Northeast India.

Travel: The World and Northeast India, a conversation between Samrat Choudhury and Mitra Phukan, took attendees on a metaphorical journey reflecting on growing prominence of travel writing. Choudhury, while discussing his book ‘A Braided River’ and his travel anecdotes besides the Brahmaputra, said, “The Brahmaputra is the original highway of the entire region”.

The magic of oral storytelling came alive during the session: The Power and Magic of Oral Storytelling, where Desmond Kharmawphlang engaged in a spirited discussion with Janet Dkhar. Desmonfmd Kharmawphlabg said, “There is a misconception that all the epics are written. There are these amazingly long complex stories which are not characteristic as epics as they are not there in the written version”, reflecting on oral storytelling in Garo hills and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya.

Nina Sabnani, in conversation with Samanda Nora Pyngrope, unravelled the art of storytelling in animation and film during the session Crafting Worlds.

In the penultimate session of the three-day celebration of literature titled ‘Publishing Unveiled: The Art of Fact and Fiction’, Elizabeth Kuruvilla and Anindita Ghose examined the delicate balance between truth and imagination in publishing. The session provided aspiring writers with valuable insights into navigating the world of literature and publishing.

The festival concluded with a closing ceremony, featuring a keynote address by His Excellency Firat Sunel in presence of Bah Paul Lyngdoh, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism. The welcome address to the closing ceremony was given by Cyril VD Diengdoh, Director of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya.

The evening culminated in a mesmerising musical performance, Mamma Mia, by the talented students at St. Edmund’s School, leaving the audience enthralled. Every evening, the artists from MGMP performed in the festival alluring the visitors.

The 4th edition of this literary extravaganza, till date, has been the most successful festival in terms of footfall (Over 15,000 visitors) as well the line-up of speakers and moderators, ranging from the legends like Vikram Seth, Shobha De, Jerry Pinto, Anita Agnihotri, Arupjyoti Saikia, Kynpham S Nongkynirh, Sanjoy Hazarika, Madhu Raghavendra, Patricia Mukhim, Malavika Banerjee, Kanishka Gupta and many other doyens from the field of art, literature and cinema.

Flight UL 1174 will depart from Bangalore at 09:40 AM, arriving in Colombo at 11:10 AM every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The return journey, UL 1173, will leave Colombo at 07:20 AM and reach Bangalore at 08:40 AM, also operating on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

This enhanced schedule offers greater travel flexibility for Bengaluru residents heading to Sri Lanka for holidays or remote work, allowing more daytime hours on the island while being well-timed near the weekend. Travellers can enjoy a packed itinerary, make the most of their visit and return home ready to start the new week, making it an optimal choice for weekend trips to Sri Lanka.

The appeal of Sri Lanka as a holiday and MICE destination among Indian travellers is on the rise, largely due to the cultural and geographical closeness of the two countries. Many Indians will discover a familiar sense of home in Sri Lanka that is often missing elsewhere. Additionally, Sri Lanka’s compact size and the new flight schedule enable Indian visitors to experience a range of attractions in just a few days, from the picturesque southern beaches and the historic kovils in the north to the cool highlands in the central region, complemented by shopping and wellness activities in Colombo.

The new flight schedule is just one reason why SriLankan Airlines remains a preferred choice for Indian travellers. Members of the airline’s loyalty programme, FlySmiLes, can earn 1,174 miles for flights on UL 1174 and 1,173 miles on UL 1173. Onboard, passengers can indulge in delicious Indian vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine, along with the renowned warmth and hospitality that reflects the spirit of Sri Lanka.

In addition to the new service, SriLankan Airlines will continue operating its established daily flights between Bangalore and Colombo. India is the only nation with nine cities in SriLankan Airlines’ network, covering Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Trivandrum, Chennai, Trichy, Madurai and Bangalore. Altogether, SriLankan Airlines runs nearly 90 flights each week between India and Sri Lanka.

For further information and to make bookings, please visit SriLankan.

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.

The opening day will kick off with a legendary musical showcase, highlighted by a performance from Boney M on their Farewell Tour. This rare chance to see the iconic band live is complemented by performances from the soulful Jasleen Royal and the international sensation Lucas, setting an electrifying tone for the festival. Day two will raise the excitement further, as Akon headlines his Superfan Tour, joined by DJ R3HAB, who is set to light up the dance floor and Kanika Kapoor, bringing her dynamic stage presence. Local artists like Rito Riba, Queen Sensation, Khasi Bloodz and members of the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP) will also perform, creating a unique mix of international and regional music talents.

Adding to the cultural allure, Japan has been announced as the festival’s partner country. This collaboration celebrates the striking similarity between the cherry blossoms in Meghalaya and those in Japan—a resemblance first noted by the Japanese Ambassador during his visit to Meghalaya in 2023. Visitors will have the chance to immerse themselves in Japanese culture through a dedicated stall that showcases traditional heritage and customs.

The tradition of celebrating “Hanami” (Cherry Blossom) dates back over a thousand years in Japan, and the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, launched in 2016, holds the distinction of being the first autumn Cherry Blossom Festival in the world. Since its inception, this unique festival has attracted travellers from across India and beyond. Last year’s edition saw record attendance, with visitors from all over the country and international attendees as well, and this year’s event is expected to be even more spectacular.

The “Year of Legends” theme promises to make this festival an unforgettable experience, combining celebrated artists with cross-cultural connections. In addition to the music, festival-goers can enjoy a range of activities, including fashion shows, cosplay competitions, art installations, food and wine stalls and more. Tickets are now available on BookMyShow and RockskiTickets, setting the stage for a countdown to one of India’s most exceptional festivals. Whether you’re drawn to music, nature, or cultural exploration, Shillong eagerly awaits to celebrate the “Year of Legends” in grand style.

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.

With over 23 years of extensive experience in the hotels & airlines, Gupta brings a wealth of expertise in sales, marketing, and business strategy.

Before joining Mayfair, Gupta was associated with Accor India & South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group and Sahara Airlines, overseeing sales operations across key markets.

With his deep industry knowledge and proven leadership, Gupta is expected to contribute significantly to Mayfair Hotels’ commercial growth and development initiatives.