The Luxury Collection Debuts in the Historic Japanese City of Nara With the Opening of Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara

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The Luxury Collection, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of 31 extraordinary hotel brands, today announces the opening of Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara in one of Japan’s most historic and scenic leisure destinations. The extraordinary property is nestled on the western edge of Nara Park and beautifully combines Japanese architecture with the lush greenery of a traditional Japanese temple garden, which forms part of the hotel grounds. The name “Shisui” was inspired by the purple trunks and green leaves or "Shikan Suiyou” of Nara's scenic vistas, cherished since ancient times. The hotel beautifully embodies the destination's history, culture and indigenous traditions, offering global explorers unique and authentic experiences of Nara.

"We are thrilled to mark the opening of Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara, the fifth Luxury Collection hotel in Japan. Each Luxury Collection hotel captivates guests with local culture, evocative moments and breath-taking scenery, creating priceless memories for a lifetime,” said Philipp Weghmann, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. “Shisui is a rare and exceptional property that is intrinsically connected to Nara and its scenic natural beauty. Through its exquisite design, impeccable service and array of luxurious amenities, the hotel defines the destination and transforms it into a truly exceptional experience for visitors."

Shisui is nestled in an enchanting classical Japanese garden that was once part of the grounds of Kofuku-ji temple, the family temple of the aristocratic Fujiwara clan, which was established in Nara in 710 AD. The temple is one of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara” and remains a timeless showcase of Japanese architecture and culture. Once Japan’s imperial capital during the eighth century, Nara is home to an incomparable collection of UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, some of which surround the hotel – Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple and Todaiji Temple. Beyond the grounds, Nara Park, pristine forests, valleys and traditional Japanese villages await discovery and exploration. The hotel is located a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu-Nara train station, which offers direct connections to Kyoto and Osaka in 35 minutes and 45 minutes respectively. Osaka Itami International Airport is approximately 48 kilometers, or about 45 minutes’ drive away from the hotel.

Renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and Associates conceptualized the overall design direction and interiors of the hotel, breathing new life into traditional Japanese architecture and the beauty of the Yoshiki-en temple garden with modern aesthetics to create a rare luxury stay experience for guests. The hotel’s reception lobby, restaurant and lounge are situated in a charming low wooden structure, first built in 1922 as the residence of the Governor of Nara, with its classical Japanese roofed gate preserved as the hotel’s main entrance.

Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate Shisui's 43 guest rooms and suites with natural daylight, and immerse guests in the beauty of the historic gardens and greenery. The exceptional interiors feature Nara's indigenous crafts, honoring the renowned traditional artisans of the region. Select guest rooms also feature captivating views of nearby Mount Wakakusa, and for relaxation in unparalled luxury and tranquillity, deluxe rooms and suites offer private in-room hot spring or open-air baths.

Shisui invites visitors to discover Nara's rich epicurean traditions with two distinctive restaurants and a bar, which authentically showcase the styles and presentations of the destination's cuisine. Restaurant Suiyou is the hotel's smart-casual all-day dining restaurant serving a curated menu of local and international fare. Within the restored storage rooms of the former Governor's residence, Sushi & Bar Shousou delights diners with exquisite, innovative interpretations of traditional sushi.

Guests can enjoy an invigorating workout in an exclusive Fitness Center, and for the ultimate indulgence, the hotel's SUI Spa invites guests to be immersed in the restorative powers of volcanic hot springs in two private rooms. Expert therapists offer locally inspired therapeutic spa treatments using rare aromatic oils and herbs that were once transported on the ancient Silk Road. Inviting guests to explore the captivating tapestry of Nara's rich traditions and cultural heritage, the hotel's Destination Discovery program shows guests how to create hand-made ink stick rubbings on ink stones. This serene and contemplative activity not only evokes a deep sense of mindfulness, but also transports participants to a realm of tranquillity and inner harmony.

“Nara is one of Japan’s most popular travel destinations, and we are proud to reflect and showcase the history, culture and traditions of this destination for local and international visitors,” said Hiroyuki Hatori, General Manager, Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara. “We look forward to welcoming guests who seek a journey that is both transformative and unforgettable when they come to Nara.”

Yue Restaurant & Bar Grand Opening at Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town

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Discover the Elegance of Chinese Modern Chic: Yue Restaurant & Bar Grand Opening at  Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town

Phuket, Thailand, August 2023 – Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town is thrilled to announce the grand opening of Yue Restaurant & Bar, a captivating Chinese culinary destination. Join us as we celebrate the fusion of timeless Cantonese flavors with modern chic design, inspired by both Chinese culture and Phuket's industrial heritage.

Phuket's historical landscape reflects its rich Chinese influence, dating back to the 16th century when Chinese settlers arrived, shaping the island's architecture, temples, and cuisine. Yue, which means "happiness" in Chinese, pays homage to this legacy by bringing authentic Chinese dining to the heart of Phuket's old town.

Culinary Delights Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Yue Restaurant & Bar promises an authentic culinary journey through Cantonese cuisine. Our talented chefs specialize in creating handcrafted dim sum and serving premium teas, ensuring an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Led by Head Chef Kenny Chang, who has helmed the Chinese Kitchen for over 10 years, we proudly present signature items such as Yue Andaman Sea King, Yue Sichuan Lobster, Yue Roasted Duck, and Golden Peach Gum Longan Jelly.


Dragon-Inspired Design The dragon, a symbol of fortune in Chinese folklore, takes center stage in Yue's design. Inspired by the dynamic dragon dance seen at Phuket's festivals, the restaurant's interiors feature captivating elements, including striking round seating that winds through the restaurant and an artistically designed ceiling. The decoration also pays homage to Phuket's industrial heritage, incorporating elements made from rock and tin.

Collinson increases airport lounges and travel experiences in Asia Pacific to cater to strong travel growth

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  • Collinson sees a 44% increase in airport lounge visits across Asia Pacific from January to July 2023 and a 32% increase when July 2023 figures are compared to pre-pandemic times in July 2019.

  • To cater to the increase in travellers, Collinson has added close to 20% more airport lounges and travel experiences to its Asia Pacific network in the first half of this year – including a Japanese-style public bath, capsule hotel and co-working spaces.

  • Globally, Priority Pass Members can access over 1,400 airport lounges and travel experiences.

 

Mumbai, August 2023: Collinson, a global leader in the provision of airport experiences, loyalty and customer engagement solutions, and owner and operator of Priority Pass, sees the strong return and growth of travel in Asia Pacific across most markets, and continues expanding its network of airport lounges and travel experiences to cater to the increasing number of travellers.

In the first seven months of 2023 (from January to July), Collinson saw a resounding 44% increase in airport lounge visits across Asia Pacific, with the strongest performing markets being located within South and South-East Asia. Additionally, a 32% increase can be seen when pre-pandemic July 2019 lounge visit figures are contrasted with July 2023.

Todd Handcock, Global Chief Commercial Officer and Asia Pacific President at Collinson, said, “As we celebrate the almost full resumption of travel in the Asia Pacific region, where air passenger traffic is reported to sit at over 90% of pre-pandemic levels, we remain focused on elevating our members’ travel journeys by growing and enhancing our airport lounges and travel experiences. In the first half of this year alone, we worked closely and collaboratively with industry partners across the region to increase the number of airport lounges and travel experiences in Asia Pacific network by close to 20%.”

Priority Pass Members can now access an additional 88 new airport lounges and travel experiences in Asia Pacific. The recently renewed partnership with Plaza Premium saw 27 lounges added across key Asia Pacific travel destinations including Cambodia, Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and the Philippines. Collinson also expanded its network of airport lounges in Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia through direct agreements with Blue Sky Group, Noi Bai Aviation Joint Stock Company (SÔNG HỒNG) and SSP Malaysia. Additionally, it has also brought on board seven premium airport lounges in Mainland China through a direct partnership with Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Business Travel Service Co Ltd. 

 

“As we meet the growing volumes and evolving expectations of travellers, we are remaining focused on expanding our inventory to bring seamless, enjoyable, and stress-free travel experiences to our members. This is further supported by findings from our recent Asia Pacific customer engagement and loyalty research report, where 76% of consumers view the experience provided by a brand to be as important as its products or services,” Handcock added.

 

The report, which surveyed over 4,750 frequent travellers across 10 markets in Asia Pacific, revealed that travellers in Asia Pacific, particularly Millennials and Gen Z travellers, are seeking unique and immersive experiences. Airport lounge access topped respondents’ list of travel benefits, with other highly-rated experiences including dining discounts, and lifestyle and wellness benefits – all of which are available through a Priority Pass membership.

New experiences that have been added to the Asia Pacific inventory this year include access to co-working spaces – Connect and Miracle Co-working space – in Singapore Changi Airport and Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport. Members can also enjoy a wide array of dining choices with 16 new dining establishments brought on board in Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Japan. In Japan, travellers can also unwind and relax at Japan’s in-airport Japanese-style public bath at Kutsurogi Dokoro at Chubu Centrair International Airport or choose to take a rest at a nine-hour capsule hotel at Narita Airport.

Today, Priority Pass Members have access to more than 550 airport lounges and travel experiences in Asia Pacific, and over 1,400 globally across the world’s major travel zones. Members can access an ever-growing range of premium experiences – from spas to sleeping pods to dining – that help elevate every journey into something special.

 

Discover the Flavours of India in Bali - Revealing the Best 7 Indian Restaurants

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Bali has become a popular choice for Indian travellers, whether for business or leisure purposes. Various factors contribute to this popularity, from picturesque landscapes to a vibrant culture, encompassing both local and international culinary influences. Amidst the array of global cuisines, Indian dining establishments have carved out a distinct place, delivering genuine tastes that captivate taste buds while adding an exotic touch. Whether to savour the familiar flavours while being away from home on this island getaway or to delve into contemporary Indian dishes, these top 5 Indian restaurants in Bali ensure an unforgettable culinary voyage.

  1. Queens Tandoor Bali: Queen ’s Tandoor is an epitome of authentic Indian cooking which is served in the most exotic of locations i.e. Bali. People choose Queen ’s, when they want to experience the enriching, authentic flavours of Indian food along with a memorable dining experience. Being one of the oldest Indian restaurants, of not just Bali but Jakarta as well,  Queen ’s Tandoor brings together a pleasurable experience for our each and every dining guest. It has over 4 branches in Bali itself – Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua & Ubud.

  2. Bollywood Masala Bali: Bollywood Masalaz, new name with people who have rich experience in restaurants and perfectly placed near tourist destinations like discovery mall, Lippo Mall, Kuta Beach in the heart of kuta and ideal destination to have Indian veg non veg food with family with ambience which will remind you about rich history of Bollywood from India. At “Bollywood Masalaz” we bring in a lot of fresh ingredients from India so that you can feel the real aroma and real authentic taste of dish from any part of India. This is what makes Bollywood Masalaz best place to have Best Indian Food in Kuta,from North Tandoori Chicken to South sweet Payasam, From East Vada Pav to west Hyderabadi Biryanies . Bollywood Masala has it all.

  3. Pesona Lounge Ubud: Situated in Ubud, Pesona Lounge Ubud shines with its inventive take on Indian gastronomy. The restaurant brings a modern twist to classic dishes, offering a menu featuring a variety of shareable small plates, fragrant biryanis, flavorful curries, and delectable kathi rolls. The establishment provides abundant choices for both vegetarians and vegans, reflecting the rising demand for plant-based dining. Complementing the innovative dishes, an extensive selection of creatively crafted cocktails, beers, and wines are on offer, some with intriguing Indian influences, making this venue a fusion of tastes and cultures.

  4. Spice Mantraa: With locations in Seminyak and Canggu, Bali, Spice Mantraa has established itself as a prominent modern Indian eatery with a global perspective. The restaurant's extensive menu presents options for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, all prepared using the freshest seasonal ingredients and a skilful blend of Indian herbs and spices. The spacious indoor dining area and expansive outdoor terrace create the perfect setting to relish the mouthwatering creations amidst lush gardens.

  5. Ganesha ek Sanskriti: Positioned strategically in Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Ubud, Kuta, and Sanur, Bali, Ganesha ek Sanskriti brings an authentic slice of India to the island. Focusing on tandoori delicacies, the restaurant's menu showcases a diverse array catering to vegetarian and vegan preferences alike. Its convenient locations make it a preferred destination for those desiring a taste of rich Indian flavours.

    Endorsed by Tria Uma Wisata Tours & Travel - Bali's Premier Destination Management Company, which guarantees an unmatched and immersive exploration of the island's culinary gems, these dining destinations are not only a feast for the senses but also a testament to the flourishing Indian culinary scene in Bali. As the local culinary landscape diversifies, these eateries stand out as frontrunners, presenting distinct interpretations of Indian cuisine that cater to traditionalists and adventurous palates.


Za’atar Brings Loads Of Heritage And Love From The Middle East To Mumbai! 

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August 2023, Mumbai: What makes Middle Eastern cuisine so special is the fact that it’s a blend of different practices and traditions from different parts of the world. One can see the different culinary traits the cuisine has inherited from different regions, such as Mongolia, India, Africa, and even today, Europe. It's hard to resist the enticing flavors from this region that never fail to strike a chord with your heart and palate. And Za’atar is on a mission to make you fall in love with Middle Eastern cuisine, one dish at a time. Since its inception, the eatery has been whipping up food that’s not only delicious but also heartwarming. 

Za’atar first opened its doors in Bandra in June 2018 and was one of the few places that had a full-fledged Lebanese menu under one roof. After some time, Za’atar shifted to Khar and expanded to two more locations, with one outlet opening in Mumbai's affluent neighbourhood, Mahalaxmi, and two more opening  in Pune. Ever since it came into being, Za’atar has always worked on the principle of serving delicious yet affordable food that customers can greatly relish. They are also very adamant about not falling for the fads that keep circulating in the food industry. 

"Back in 2017, when we friends were exploring the idea of working together, the discussions would always revolve around the idea of having a prominently Indian-owned and founded QSR, but to go beyond Indian food and explore other cuisines. We always thought there was an underdeveloped market in India within the QSR space, but with a lot of potential. It was our love for Middle Eastern cuisine and wanting to be our own customers that made us push to start this brand. After having researched the market, we realised the ingredients were available, and there was no excuse to complain but to just do it ourselves—that's how Za'atar was born. The beauty of Middle Eastern and Lebanese cuisine is that it is a light and easy diet that also fits many dietary lifestyles, such as vegan, keto, high protein, and low carb. It’s my go-to meal anytime of the day," says Advait Agnihotri, co-founder of Za’atar. Besides Agnihotri, the founding team of Za'atar includes Anuj Solanki, Jai Sarvaiya, and Nirvaan Thacker, who is also the chef. 

When asked about the name ‘Za’atar,’ Jai Sarvaiya says that the name stands for a spice that is widely used in Middle Eastern food. "Everyone we spoke with had fond memories of travelling to the Middle East or the UK/US and enjoying a cheesy za'atar manakeesh or a labneh with za'atar. That’s when we decided to name our brand after the spice, as it's not only unique but also because it serves as a representation of the Middle East," he adds. 

As for the food, Za’atar has always been meticulous about respecting the cuisine and maintaining high standards. Some of their best practices for ensuring the authenticity and high quality of the dishes involve importing spices from the Middle East and working closely with their vendors, who ensure a steady supply of the freshest ingredients on a daily basis.

Some of their delicacies include a plethora of mezzes served with pickled vegetables and pita bread; Classic Falafel Shawarma consisting of crispy fried falafels, lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes along with harissa, tahina, and pickled vegetables; Harissa Cheese Manakeesh; Chicken Seekh Bowl; Schoug Mushroom Bowl; Cottage Cheese Moussaka served with grilled paneer, red pepper and tomato sauce, and feta cheese; and more. Za’atar’s signature dessert is the Dark Chocolate and Hazelnut Hummus, which is an all-time favorite. It's vegan, light, and has some serious protein too! Also, there are certain items on the menu that can be served vegan or Jain on request. 

The person behind Za’atar’s mouth-watering, versatile menu is Nirvaan Thacker, who has always had a passion for cooking. "Since I was a child, I have always loved food and started cooking at a very young age too. There was a lot of influence from my grandmother and my parents as well, who are huge foodies and love cooking as well. The ‘Travel and Living’ channel played a big role in exposing the possibilities of a career in food; my favourite shows are Anthony Bourdain's," he adds when asked about what motivated him to enter the culinary world. 

"It's been a rollercoaster ride since we started including the COVID period, but I think it's for three reasons: Firstly, we have a simple menu that we have worked on several times to ensure that we consistently deliver the same taste and quality. Secondly, we've always tried to give something new to our customers and tried our best to keep coming with newer offerings, and lastly, we’ve got a great customer base that's supported us from the start and even continues to do so. Many of them now know us on a personal basis and have always given us honest feedback, which has helped us get things right and improve our service over the years," says Anuj Solanki. 

Nothing can win over someone’s heart the way good food can. And Za’atar has been doing just that and more since its inception. Make sure to head over to the nearest Za’atar outlet or order some of their finest delicacies to your doorstep! 

Address: Block No. 40 Laxmi Woolen Mills Compound, Shakti Mills Ln, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400011
Mahesh Building, Corner of 3rd and, 5th Rd, Khar West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400052
A-5, Shainsha Society, Lane No. 6, Koregaon Park, Pune, Maharashtra 411001

Go Your Own Way And Earn More During Marriott Bonvoy’s Fall Global Promotion

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Earn Bonus Points for Exploring the World and Marriott Bonvoy’s Extraordinary Portfolio of Hotel Brands 

India – August 2023 – With extraordinary hotel brands for every style worldwide, Marriott Bonvoy® lets you go your way and earn bonus points during the new global promotion. This fall, Marriott Bonvoy is rewarding members who explore the breadth of Marriott Bonvoy’s distinctive portfolio with two ways to earn bonus points.  

From September 12 to December 6, 2023, registered members can earn 1,500 bonus points on each stay and an additional 3,000 bonus points each time they stay at three different brands during the promotion earning period. Registration is open starting today through November 22, 2023.  

With nearly 8,600 properties within the portfolio, Marriott Bonvoy has extraordinary hotels for every traveler and every travel journey across the world.  Looking for unexpected design and imaginative programming? Check in to W Hotels. Wellness enthusiast? Retreat to Westin Hotels & Resorts. Want playful, cool vibes? Visit Moxy Hotels. Members can also discover new additions to the portfolio, including City Express by Marriott, offering midscale properties in the Caribbean and Latin American markets. 

Here are some additional details: 

  • Registration is open here from August 29 to November 22, 2023. The promotion earning period runs from September 12 to December 6, 2023.

  • A “stay” is defined as consecutive nights spent in the same hotel, regardless of check-in/check-out activity, at any points-eligible rate.

  • Stays completed prior to registration are not eligible to earn bonus points with this promotion. Members must register before November 22, 2023. 

  • To earn the additional 3,000 bonus points, members can only stay once at each participating Marriott Bonvoy hotel brand during the promotion earning period.  

  • There is no limit on the number of times a member can earn the 1,500 bonus points on each eligible paid stay completed during the promotion earning period. 

  • Registered members can begin earning bonus points from the first eligible stay that falls within the earning period, and on each eligible stay thereafter.

  • A hotel must participate in Marriott Bonvoy at the time of the stay to qualify as a stay under the promotion terms. 

  • Stays at The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection, Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott Executive Apartments®, and owner-occupied weeks at Marriott Vacation Club®, Marriott Grand Residence Club®, Sheraton Vacation Club®, Westin Vacation Club®, The Ritz-Carlton Club®, St. Regis Residence Club® and Luxury Collection Residence Club, are not eligible for bonus points for this promotion.

To see the Terms & Conditions, visit here.

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 31 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. 





"Pincodes to Plates"An exclusive pop-up by Chef Kunal Kapur

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Mumbai, August Tracing his culinary expedition from Dubai to Delhi and finally to Mumbai, chef Kunal Kapur presents the first ever "Pincodes to Plates" pop-up at Virat Kohli's one8 Commune. This marks the inaugural occasion of these two sister brands of True Palate Hospitality coming together to present a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

This series celebrates India's diverse regional cuisines, connecting your palate with the essence of each region. Inspired by Chef Kunal's extensive journey across India, this event brings authentic flavors and techniques straight to your table, showcasing generations of perfected cooking methods.

Chef Kunal Kapur excitedly states that "With 'Pincodes to Plates,' we're unraveling India's culinary secrets, one bite at a time. This culinary series is a tribute to the art of cooking that binds our nation. Each dish not only tantalizes taste buds but also narrates the stories of traditions and flavors that make India's cuisine so enchanting."

The Main Course sections offer a medley of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, highlighting the diverse and rich flavours that India has to offer like the legendary Champaran Meat, Green Chilli Paratha 493992, straight out of God’s Own Country is the Wayanadan Chicken Curry, Parotta 673121, the classic Punjabi Chole, Chur Chur Naan 143001 and the tangy Martbaan Paneer, Masala Lachha Paratha.

Experience the exquisite symphony of flavours with their Pulao selection. For vegetarians, the Bombay Tawa Pulao awaits, a symphony of spices and vegetables evoking the bustling streets of Bombay. Non-vegetarian enthusiasts can relish the Chicken Pulao, a harmonious blend of succulent chicken and fragrant rice. Dive into the rich notes of the Mutton Pulao, a masterpiece of tender mutton entwined with perfectly seasoned grains. Every plate tells a unique story, a tribute to the varied pincodes that shape India's culinary map. Complementing these culinary gems, the refreshing Burrani Raita offers a soothing contrast.

Indulge in an array of tantalising small plates like the treasure of an unexplored cuisine Aloo Tuk, Truffle Malai Sauce 400005; Amritsari Bhatti da Murgh 143001, inspired by the Tandooriyas of Ambarsar and Kanpuri Shami Kebab Bun Tikka 208001 from the heartland of Awadh.

You can "Chaat it Out" while exploring the playful side of Indian cuisine, with quirky and innovative vegan and gluten-free chaat creations like Dhokla Chaat 380009; Flying in from their Dubai outpost is the Chaat Hummus 122002 infused with tangy raw mango and topped with farsan to be relished with papdi and the popular Ram Laddoo Chaat 110001.

Celebrating the nation's enduring love for sweets, their dessert section starres Rasmalai Tiramisu, Pincode’s take on the most popular Italian dessert. For those seeking a taste of nostalgia, our Old Delhi Style Gadbad Falooda is a must-try.

"Pincode to Plates" doesn't just offer a wide array of dishes; it presents a journey through various cooking techniques that have shaped Indian cuisine over the centuries. "Dhungar" from the central and northern regions infuses smoky flavors, "Khurchan" from the west and north for that delightful crispiness, while "Bhapa" from the east and northeast offers tender fragrant delights.

Suved Lohia, a local partner of one8 commune Juhu states that "At one8 Commune, we are thrilled to present the first-ever 'Pincodes to Plates' pop-up. Through this experience, we are not just serving dishes; we are narrating the stories of diverse regions, techniques, and cultures that make our culinary heritage so vibrant. Join us as we celebrate the uncharted pincodes and their incredible flavours that have found a home at our table."

Don't wait any longer! Reserve your spot and experience the magic that awaits at "Pincodes to Plates" pop-up at one8 Commune.

About one8 Commune:
one8 Commune is best described as the most non-pretentious space, the first-ever one-of-a-kind comforting resto-bar, holding true to its 'Commune Sensibility'. Everything about the place, from its menu, ambience and décor, is based on the singular aura of togetherness, a powerful connection that brings people of varied tastes, interests, and backgrounds into one space, thus standing true to its name. 

It leans towards being an experiential dining space, where community, culture, and collaboration intersect to create a harmonious discovery.

Currently spread over with 6 outlets in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Pune, and unfurling their expansion this year in Bangalore, and Gurgaon.

Address: 18/B, Juhu Tara Rd, behind Little Italy, Shivaji Nagr, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400054

Bahrain's Culinary Delights: Indulge in Local and International Cuisine

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Bahrain, renowned for its vibrant culture, the country's culinary scene reflects the richness of its heritage. Visitors to Bahrain are in for a delightful treat as they explore a wide array of flavors, ranging from traditional Bahraini dishes to international cuisines. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds and awaken your senses. Forming a tapestry of flavors that reflect the island's history, trade connections, and multicultural identity, the aromatic spices that dance on your tongue to succulent meats and fresh seafood that melt in your mouth, every dish tells a story and leaves an indelible mark on your soul. Let’s delve into the world of this vibrant kingdom’s culinary delights!

Bahraini cuisine is deeply rooted in the country's history, showcasing the influence of various cuisines including The Middle East and Indian Cuisines. One cannot truly experience Bahrain without savoring the authentic local dishes.

Considered Bahrain's national dish, Machboos is a fragrant rice dish often prepared with tender lamb, chicken, or fish, generously seasoned with a blend of spices, including saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon.

Then we have a dish commonly enjoyed during the holy month of Ramadan, Harees consists of ground wheat and meat, slow-cooked until it reaches a porridge-like consistency, resulting in a comforting and filling meal.

If you’re an actual foodie who would go to any lengths in trying out everything about a particular region, you will always know that you’d get the best delicacy by going out on a street food extravaganza! Imagine strolling through bustling alleys, where the air is filled with mouthwatering aromas and sizzling sounds.

The vibrant streets of Bahrain come alive with an exciting assortment of street food. Local markets and bustling alleys offer an opportunity to indulge in various delectable treats.

And to satisfy your sweet tooth, enjoy local delights such as Bahraini Halwa, a delectable rosewater and saffron-infused dessert made from starch, and Luqaimat, delightful deep-fried dumplings coated in date syrup.

 

Bahrain is a melting pot of cultures, attracting a diverse expatriate community from around the world. As a result, the country boasts a broad spectrum of international cuisines, making it a true foodie's paradise.

 

Bahrain's location in the heart of the Arabian Gulf ensures an abundance of fresh seafood options. Locally caught fish and shellfish play a central role in the country's culinary repertoire. From grilled kingfish and hammour to spicy prawn dishes, seafood lovers are in for a real treat.

 

From Continental, Thai, Chinese, Japanese and Indian cuisines, Bahrain offers a plethora of Asian restaurants, each delivering authentic flavors from their respective regions. Bahrain takes pride in its innovative food scene, where chefs experiment with blending local and international flavors to create unique fusion dishes that cater to diverse palates.

 

Get ready to explore the lively street food scene, or in search of international delicacies, the island nation has something to satisfy every palate!


Ayana Estate Introduces Jamu Workshop As Part Of Its Reimagined Farm Program

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Guests can now create their own jamu, an ancient Indonesian herbal tonic promoting holistic health, through an expert-led workshop at the newly opened AYANA Farm.

Mumbai August 2023 – AYANA Estate, the award-winning destination resort in Jimbaran, Bali, unveiled its revitalized AYANA Farm in July 2023, which offers a diverse array of guest activities. In collaboration with The Jamu BAR, AYANA Farm has announced its twice-weekly Traditional Herbal Remedies Workshop, which pays homage to the therapeutic potency of Indonesia's traditional herbal elixirs, known as jamu. Every Tuesday and Thursday, workshop participants will handpick their own herbs from over 130 plant varieties cultivated on the farm, before learning about and crafting personalized jamu.

 

Emerging in the 1300s as evidenced by the intricate reliefs of Borobudur Temple in Central Java, jamu is a revered wellness tradition deeply rooted in Indonesian culture. Its fundamental role in holistic health persevered through the Dutch colonial era and continues to thrive today, with age-old recipes passed down through generations. For over 700 years, jamu has been consumed by the peoples of the Indonesian archipelago to improve digestion, boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health and vitality.

 

"Our Traditional Herbal Remedies Workshop invites guests to enhance their wellbeing while also reaffirming our commitment to carrying forward Indonesia’s wellness traditions that have been championed by generations of Indonesian women for over seven centuries,” says Giordano Faggioli, General Manager of AYANA Estate. The AYANA Farm workshop is led by female staff of The Jamu BAR, founded by Vanessa Kalani, the great-granddaughter of Lau Ping Nio founder of Nyonya Meneer. Born in 1895, Lau Ping Nio founded Nyonya Meneer in 1919 and was the first to produce and distribute jamu nationwide. Today, Vanessa continues her great grandmother’s legacy of sharing the spirit and essence of jamu through modernization with ready-to-drink products and workshops at AYANA Farm.

 

"We are thrilled to be partnering with AYANA Estate, the leading destination resort in Bali,” says Vanessa Kalani. “Our workshop will introduce the jamu tradition to the resort’s multinational guests while also preserving its legacy. During the workshop, we will maximize the use of medicinal herbs and plants at AYANA Farm's living pharmacy to create a basic jamu, and offer a personalized version based on the wellness goals of each participant."

 

As the base of the jamu recipe featured in the workshop, guests will first create jamu empon empon from potent ingredients including fresh turmeric, which is rich in antioxidants, enhances blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and alleviates indigestion; fresh ginger, which is also rich in antioxidants and has antiviral and antibacterial qualities; fresh kencur or aromatic ginger, which aids digestion, reduces inflammation, and boosts the immune system; and fresh lemongrass, which eliminates harmful toxins from the body.

 

Participants will then be presented with a selection of seven customizable recipes, which can be tailored to the unique needs of each guest. For those pursuing youthfulness and supple skin, the addition of the medicinal herb kumis kucing and sirih, or betel leaf, is recommended. Those seeking to enhance memory, focus, and visual acuity can enrich their jamu mixture with daun pegagan, commonly known as Indian pennywort, moringa, butterfly pea flower, and celery. For those leading an active lifestyle, the inclusion of the herb daun jinten in the jamu mixture offers benefits such as heart strengthening, relief from muscle aches, and improved lung function, while jamu sorga enhances a couple’s intimacy by boosting estrogen in women and virility in men. Guests can also try widely-known jamu such as kunyit asam, made from anti-inflammatory turmeric and tamarind, and beras kencur, which comprises rice powder, aromatic ginger and spices to treat colds and coughs by warming the body.

 

Using natural ingredients, the workshop also invites participants to create traditional Indonesian skin care products such as boreh, a traditional herbal scrub. Comprising ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, turmeric, and rice powder, boreh is renowned for its cleansing, warming, and invigorating properties that exfoliate the skin while alleviating muscle tension and joint discomfort. Another traditional product featured in the workshop is lulur, a herbal body scrub containing a blend of medicinal herbs and spices. Rice powder serves as the foundational element of many lulur formulations, for its potent antioxidants and reputed skin-brightening qualities. Betel leaves and cloves contribute antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, while candlenut enhances skin hydration and diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

 

To continue their wellness journey, guests can take home their skin care products and recipe books. "We hope this workshop offers our guests a new wellness experience rooted in tradition and sustainability, and that it inspires them to continue these time-honored practices at home," concludes Giordano.

 

The Traditional Herbal Remedies Workshop runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30pm to 5:30 pm. The admission fee is IDR 800,000++ per person, and the workshop is suitable for participants aged 13 years and above.

 

For more information, visit ayana.com

LTC Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. expands its portfolio with the launch of THE ROBOT RESTAURANT – YELLOW HOUSE, Lucknow

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A New and Appealing Concept of Robots as Waiters to provide a futuristic dining experience

 

Lucknow, August’23: Culinary enthusiasts in Lucknow have a reason to celebrate as the much-anticipated THE ROBOT RESTAURANT – YELLOW HOUSE opens its doors in the city. The restaurant stands at the forefront of the culinary landscape, seamlessly blending technology, tradition, and taste to create an unparalleled dining experience. The restaurant, which has its roots in Jaipur now expanding its horizons to Lucknow, unveiled its latest outlet marking its first foray into the non-vegetarian culinary landscape of the city, thereby introducing a harmonious fusion of global culinary delights with Indian flair.

 

THE ROBOT RESTAURANT – YELLOW HOUSE has earned its reputation as a trailblazer in the realm of innovative fusion cuisine. The restaurant's fusion of global flavors with an Indian twist has garnered attention far and wide. With the backing of LA Delight Hospitality Private Limited, the restaurant chain is set to elevate the city's dining scene to new heights.

 

“What sets THE ROBOT RESTAURANT – YELLOW HOUSE apart is its seamless integration of cutting-edge technology and culinary finesse”, said Aniket Shrivastava, Director of LA Delight Hospitality PVT LTD. “The restaurant proudly presents, ROBOT RUBY and ROBOT DIVA, the robotic servers that meticulously deliver each dish to patrons' tables. This high-tech addition underscores the establishment's commitment to delivering an impeccable dining experience”, he further added.

 

With the introduction of their inaugural non-vegetarian outlet, the restaurant radiates enthusiasm in presenting Lucknow's culinary aficionados with an exceptional amalgamation of worldwide flavors interwoven with indigenous tastes. The diverse and extensive menu speaks to patrons of all age brackets, guaranteeing an indelible dining experience for each visitor.

Some of the highlights from the restaurant's expansive menu include the tantalising Mutton Korma, Handi Chicken, Dal Bukhara, delicacies from the global platter like Sushi, Bao's, and variety of Dimsums, drinks such as Foxy, Chamatkar, and many more that showcases their commitment to redefining dining through flavor, taste, and experiences that leave a lasting impression.

 

The restaurant takes pride in delivering a superior taste under the strictest hygiene standards. Each dish, untouched by human hands, is elegantly served by the charismatic ROBO RUBY AND DIVA. The intrigue deepens as patrons discover that the robotic servers are powered by artificial intelligence, with data from each table seamlessly integrated into their operations. The robots themselves are a resplendent shade of yellow—a hue that symbolizes the very essence of hunger. The robots themselves embody a whimsical charm that resonates particularly well with young patrons. This establishment is fully equipped to cater to special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, corporate gatherings, and kitty parties, even offering decoration services to elevate these moments.

Commenting on the launch, Harshit Surana, Founder and Director of LTC Hospitality Private Limited, said, “THE ROBOT RESTAURANT – YELLOW HOUSE upholds its commitment to excellence through competitive pricing, the use of fresh and high-quality ingredients, impeccable service, and adherence to stringent health protocols. The restaurant embodies the essence of Lucknow's hospitality and tourism industry, inviting patrons to embark on a gastronomic journey that marries tradition and innovation.”

 

Renest Calangute Goa: Unveiling a Fresh "Retreat of Comfort" Experience Launching in October 2023

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New Delhi, August  2023: Renest Hotels & Resorts is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its brand-new hotel – Renest Calangute Goa, welcoming guests from October 2023. This contemporary oasis is strategically located just a brief 10-minute drive from the stunning Candolim beach and a mere 15-minute journey to the popular Calangute Beach, making it the ideal destination for travellers seeking convenience and comfort.

Renest Calangute Goa offers 30 meticulously designed rooms, each exuding luxury and comfort. Whether you opt for a double bed, twin bed, or suite room, rest assured that the property’s accommodation is well equipped with all the modern amenities.

“As we step up our expansion plans across the country, we are excited to open our newest property – Renest Calangute Goa. Both domestic and international tourism in Goa is growing rapidly and we are keen to showcase our world class hospitality standards to guests visiting the state,” said Vishal Lonkar, General Manager, Brand Development, Renest Hotels & Resorts.

“At Renest Calangute Goa, we understand that every guest deserves the best, and our commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of our establishment. With a dedicated 24-hour front desk, impeccable room service, a refreshing swimming pool, a tranquil spa, and inviting outdoor furniture, we have curated an environment that caters to your every need. Furthermore, to keep our guests connected while they relax, we offer complimentary Wi-Fi throughout stay,” added Lonkar.

The cornerstone of Renest Calangute Goa’s hospitality is its restaurant, Tribe, which provides an all-day dining experience that transcends borders. The menu served at the restaurant masterfully blends the vibrant flavours of Indian, Asian, and European cuisines.

For those seeking a touch of magic in their evening, Jugnu, the property’s sparkling bar, beckons. This enchanting space is where exquisite cocktails, a curated wine collection, and delectable appetizers come together to elevate your dining experience.

Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and enter the tranquil haven of Renest Calangute Goa’s wellness spa. The hotel’s team of skilled therapists has crafted an array of rejuvenating treatments, ranging from massages to facials, designed to restore your sense of balance and well

being.

The Dabolim Airport is approximately 38 kilometers away from the property, while the recently opened Manohar International Airport at Mopa, North Goa, is just 29 kilometers away.

Guests can also arrive in Goa through Madgaon Railway Station. Trains from major cities across India make stops here. Additional railway stations in Goa include Thivim, Karmali, and Vasco da Gama. Goa is well connected by road, accessible via national highways. Regular bus services also operate from cities like Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, and Bangalore.

About Renest Hotels & Resorts

Renest Hotels & Resorts is a unique collection of boutique hotels and resorts that offer experiential stays amid nature, in picturesque locations across India.

Renest Hotels & Resorts do not confine themselves to the four walls and focus to infuse an amalgamation of natural aesthetics and sustainability in the hotels. With hotels and resorts in key locations of temple towns Shirdi and Tirupati, popular hill station Manali, business hubs Jaipur and Gandhidham, Renest strives to deliver memorable stay experiences to all travellers

Renest Hotels & Resorts cares deeply about local communities and the ecosystems they are a part of. From growing their own organic produce, recycling rainwater, and establishing in-house bottling plants, vertical gardens and open skylights, they have incorporated sustainable measures to preserve and protect the environment.



Ingredient Ideology | The Makhana Trivia By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani – Celebrity Master Chef.

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Makhana also known as lotus seeds or fox nuts are one of the nutritionally high ingredients with versatile uses and benefits to assist us in our daily cooking with recipes in various categories and forms. With the growing awareness of this ingredient over the years it is important that we are updated with the reasons of why to include them in our diets as well. While some say they are tasteless and some seem confused on how to make it interesting on the dinner table to get compliments we do have a choice of recipes below for all to try and enjoy the flavors of makhana!

Let us have a look at a few Health Benefits of Makhana:

1. Makhana is good for weight loss and management.

2. Makhana should be consumed since it provides energy and is also good for bone health.

3. Makhana is also considered good for heart and kidney health along with able to manage blood pressure issues too.

4. Makhana also has benefits of being a good anti-oxidant, reduces fatigue and also reduced palpitations.

5. Makhana is a low glycemic index ingredient hence making it a good choice to come by into our recipes.

Culinary Uses of Makhana:

1. makhana as a lightly roasted snack from plain salted, to kali mirch and the masala spice mixes are all a perfect munch option to sit back and enjoy when in between meals and to manage hunger pangs.

2. A makhana mattar ki subzi with a base of onion-tomato masala with mild powdered spices, a little green peas and fresh coriander leaves is great to enjoy with hot phulkas and rotis.

3. For a no onion-no garlic option of preparing makhanas go for a tomato base gravy with little cashew and cream and add capsicums and paneer along with it to bring out the flavor.

4. Makhane aur anar ka raita, a welcome bowl of chilled raita concept with toasted makhanas and pomegranate seeds with a little roasted crushed jeera, kala namak and mint leaves is just too good!

5. Korma gravy with a base of onion paste, curd, poppy seeds, cashew or charmagaz, coconut and mildly spiced and laced onto makhanas with a few choice of colorful crunchy veggies is a great option too for a variety to enjoy makhanas.

6. Soya bean keema ka dum pulao with makhanas is simply a treat to the eyes and the palate! I love the pulao to be steaming hot and topped with crunchy fried makhanas tossed with spices in a little ghee added just before serving!

7. Sweets and desserts also go well with makhanas my favorites however are the classic makhane ki kheer, makhane aur khajoor ka Pannacotta, Gulkhand makhana mousse, makhane ki rabdi and makhana masti pancakes.

Here are a few recipes with Makhana for all to try out and relish

Recipe-1] KAJU MAKHANE KA MILAAP

Ingredients:

Makhanas/fox nuts- 2 cups fried/lightly roasted.

Oil/ghee- 2 tbsp.

Cumin seeds-1/2 tsp

Ginger-garlic chili paste- 1 tsp

Boiled onion paste-1/2 cup

Turmeric powder-1/2 tsp

Coriander powder-1 tsp

Garam masala powder-1/4 tsp

Red chili powder-1/4 tsp

Curd-1/2 cup mixed with 2 tsp cashew paste

Coconut milk-1/2 cup

Fresh cream-2-3 tbsp.

Water-1/2 cup

Paneer cubes-1/2 cup

Capsicum cubes-1/2 cup

Salt to taste

Kasuri methi-1 tsp

Coriander leaves-2 tbsp.

Fried cashews and raisins-2 tbsp. for garnish

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the recipe as per the list.

2. Heat oil and ghee and add in the cumin seeds, ginger garlic and chili paste and onion paste, cook for 2-3 mins, add little water as needed.

3.Add in the curd and cashew mixture all spices, methi, salt to taste and bhunao well for 1 min, add in little water for the gravy, simmer for 3-4 mins.

4. Add in the coconut milk and cream and blend it all in well, simmer for 2 mins finally add in the paneer cubes, capsicum cubes and fried makhana into the gravy and bring to a nice boil, check for seasonings.

5. Serve hot garnished with fried onions/nuts/coriander leaves/cream etc along with hot phulkas, rotis, naans.





Recipe-2] METHI SAAGWALA MAKHANA

Ingredients:

Makhana- 2 cups fried/roasted

Oil/ghee-2 tsp

Ginger-1 tsp chop

Garlic-1 tsp chop

Green chili- 2-3 chopped

Fresh methi- 1 cup 

Fresh coriander leaves- 2 cups

Tomatoes- 2-3 grated or fresh puree

Salt to taste

Hing- 1 pinch

Turmeric powder-1/2 tsp

Red chili powder-1/2 tsp

Coriander powder- 1 tsp

Cumin powder-1/4 tsp

Soya chunks-1/2 cup soaked in warm water for 15 mins.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the recipe.

2. Heat oil/ghee and add in the hing, ginger, garlic, chilies and saute.

3. Add in the tomatoes, salt, methi and coriander and all powdered spices and mix well, add a little water.

4. Now add in the drained soya chunks and bhunao with the masala for 1 min, cover and simmer for 8-10 mins.

5. Finally add in the makhanas and mix well, simmer for 3-4 mins and serve hot with rotis, phulkas and a bowl of raita.






Recipe-3] SUBZ MAKHANA KORMA

Ingredients:

Makhanas/fox nuts-1 cup fried

Assorted veggies- carrots/beans/cauliflower/ peas/ potatoes [ all veggies to be pre-cooked or boiled/blanched]

Oil-2 tsp

Ghee-2 tsp

Shahi jeera-1 tsp

Bayleaf-2 no

Curd -1/4 cup mixed with 2 tsp fresh cream.

Kasuri methi-1 tsp

Salt to taste

Garam masala powder-1/4 tsp

Water-1/4 cup

Rose water-1 tsp.

Fried nuts and onions- for garnish.

For the Masala paste:

Boiled onion paste-1 cup

Garlic-1 tsp chop

Ginger-1 tsp chop

Desiccated coconut-2 tbsp.

Cashews-8-10

Water-1/2 cup

Green cardamom-2-3 

Cinnamon-1-inch piece

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the recipe.

2. Heat oil and ghee in a pan add in the shahi jeera and Bayleaf, add in the prepared masala paste and cook on a medium flame for 3-4 mins.

3. Add in little water, curd and cream mixture, kasuri methi, salt to taste and the assorted veggies of your choice.

4. Simmer and cook the veggies in the gravy add in the fried makhanas, garam masala powder and simmer for 2 mins, check for seasoning.

5. Serve hot garnished with fried nuts, onions, a little rose water and saffron etc.


Recipe- 4] MAKHANA TAVA PULAO

Ingredients:

Makhanas-1 cup fried/roasted

Cooked basmati rice- 1 cup

Oil-1 tsp

Butter-1 tsp

Jeera-1/2 tsp

Mustard seeds-1/2 tsp

Curry leaves—4-5

Slit green chilies- 2 no

Ginger- garlic paste- 1 tsp

Chopped onions- 1 small

Chopped tomatoes-2 small

Carrots/beans/peas/cauliflower/capsicums- as desired to be cut into small pieces, boiled or blanched except capsicums.

Pao bhaji masala-2 tsp

Red chili powder-1/2 tsp

Water-1/4 cup

Coriander leaves- 2 tbsp.

Mint leaves- 2 tsp.

Cheese-2 tbsp.

Salt to taste

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the tava pulao recipe.

2. Heat oil and butter in a pan add in the ingredients for tempering and onions and saute until light brown, add in tomatoes and salt and powdered spices mix well add little water and cook for 2-3 mins.

3.Add in the assorted veggies of your choice and bhunao with the masala and cook for 3-4 mins.

4. Now add in the cooked rice and mix well add little cheese and coriander leaves and toss. Finally add in the makhanas and mix well serve hot with a bowl of raita/curd along with pickle and papad.








Recipe-5] MAKHANE KA DILKHUSH MEETHA

Ingredients:

Makhanas/fox nuts- 1 cup lightly roasted

Milk-3 cups

Green cardamom- 2 no

Sugar- to taste

Condensed milk- 2-3 tbsp.

Mava-2 tbsp. grated

Chopped assorted nuts- 2-3 tbsp.

Dates-2-3 chopped

Charoli-2 tsp lightly toasted or fried

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the sweet dish.

2. Using a thick bottomed pan boil the milk add cardamom, sugar, condensed milk and mava and stir constantly and reduce the mixture for 30 mins.

3. Add in few chopped dates, few nuts and Charoli and simmer for 4-5 mins, now add in the makhanas and mix well cook them in the milk mixture for 6-8 mins and serve chilled garnished with nuts-dates etc.

4. As an option also try using seasonal fruits like cubes of mangoes etc when we serve the sweet chilled it adds more taste, flavor and nutritive value as well into the dessert.

Luxury stays and incredible Indian dining options in Doha

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Qatar redefines hospitality by introducing a diverse selection of hotels to meet all needs. Witness magnificent rooms and suites, top-notch recreational amenities, and fantastic gourmet adventures, all while admiring the scenery and learning about the local culture. Furthermore, the vast array of Indian restaurants gives a modern spin to Indian dishes, which makes for a delightful culinary experience. 

Here's a guide to top stays and incredible Indian restaurants in Doha.

Luxury Hotels in Doha for an enjoyable stay

Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, in Doha, welcomes guests to spend their days immersed in a magnificent sanctuary, nestled between the desert and the busy city centre. Al Messila Resort & Spa is a paradise for travellers, with rooms and suites that cater to all comforts and requirements demands; the rooms offer a true essence of home, a distinctive Al Messila Spa that introduces a new viewpoint on holistic well-being, and restaurants that will excite taste buds.

Mandarin Oriental, Doha is an elegant and stylish urban hideaway in the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the city's lifestyle, and cultural centre. The hotel's 117 rooms, 41 suites, and 91 serviced apartments, designed by the world-renowned David Collins Studio, combine an elegant, contemporary style with delicate elements of traditional Qatari heritage. Guests can experience a luxury ambience, magnificent décor, and personalised service where traditional Middle Eastern charm meets the famed hospitality of Mandarin Oriental.

Banyan Tree Doha is exquisitely built by famous interior designer Jacques Garcia and is well-known for its luxurious stay options and spectacular architectural style. The design basis represents the four elements of life: earth, fire, water, and air, which are emphasised by the trees of life in the hotel lobby. Banyan Tree Doha provides a serene retreat for guests to refresh their minds, body, and soul in an inspirational setting, allowing them to appreciate the warm welcome while generating authentic and unique experiences. Offering 126 rooms and suites, the hotel's accommodation overlooks either the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Gulf, the breathtaking views of a verdant garden, or Doha’s old city.



The Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas provides elegant, sumptuous, and peaceful accommodations as well as a variety of facilities. This family-friendly resort features a world-class water and adventure park, spas, pools, a sports club, gourmet restaurants, thrilling activities, and much more. The arab ambience in the guest rooms and beachfront villas offers lush garden views and ocean panoramas. This luxury escape is home to 3.5 kms, with 7 Signature Restaurants and a variety of kiosks, food stalls, poolside restaurants, and the best of global flavours in grand settings.

Indian restaurants with a modern twist, in Doha

Jamavar

The Sheraton Grand Doha's Indian restaurant opened in February 2021, however, the brand itself has a far longer history, having first opened in Bengaluru in 2001 before expanding to other cities such as Mumbai, New Delhi, and London. Guests can enjoy the enchanting flavours of India paired with mesmerizing beverages, a five-course tasting menu, promising royal cuisine, and exquisite interiors.


Qalamkarri restaurant in Doha, Qatar, combines Indian cuisine with cutting-edge culinary techniques to provide the best gourmet dining experience. Live food stations, best of Indian culinary delights, including a selection of chaars, dosa, idli, tala biryani and curries; business thalis and delectable street-inspired dishes that will transport taste buds.


Jwala

A modern Indian restaurant that combines traditional and modern Indian street food. The menu represents the ethnic richness of Subcontinental cuisine, with a modern twist on traditional Indian favourites. Voyage through the world of Indian flavours and spices, all supplemented with the combination of authenticity and innovation, and accompanied by colourful street art and decor, setting the stage for a comfortable and lively dining experience.


Dalchini

Dalchini Restaurant & Bar delivers a variety of progressive Indian delicacies in a modern setting. The a la carte menu includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Led by Chef Balwant, who creates Indian food while skillfully balancing original dishes with new elements, this restaurant has it all from from starters, and mains to delectable desserts, accompanied by modern Indian lounge music. Located on the ground level, the restaurant welcomes guests for progressive Indian cuisine that combines green tones, bursts of vibrant colours, and dim lighting. 

 About Qatar Tourism:

Qatar Tourism is the official government body responsible for the development and promotion of tourism in Qatar, facilitating the sector’s exponential growth. Qatar is a destination where people of the world come together to experience unique offerings in arts, culture, sports, and adventure, catering to family and business visitors, rooted in Service Excellence. Qatar Tourism seeks to boost the entire tourism value chain, grow local and international visitor demand, attract inward investment, and drive a multiplier effect across the domestic economy. The Qatar Tourism Strategy 2030 sets an ambitious target to attract over six million international visitors a year by 2030, making Qatar the fastest-growing destination in the Middle East. 

Vistara Announces Direct Daily Flights Between Delhi And Maldives

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All-inclusive return fares start from INR 26,999/- for Economy, INR 34,999/- for Premium Economy and INR 82,999/- for Business Class

 

Gurugram, August 2023: Vistara, India’s finest full-service carrier and a joint venture of Tata group and Singapore Airlines, today announced the addition of a new route to its growing international network. The airline will be further expanding its presence in Malé with direct, daily flights to and from Delhi starting 01 October 2023. Vistara will operate its A320neo aircraft featuring a three-class configuration on the route as it enhances connectivity between India and the Republic of Maldives. Bookings for the flights are being progressively opened on all channels, including Vistara’s website, mobile app, and through travel agents.

 

Mr. Vinod Kannan, Chief Executive Officer, Vistara, said, "We are thrilled to introduce direct connectivity between Delhi and Malé – our second route to the exquisite beach destination, in addition to Mumbai-Malé. This new route will enable us to provide our customers with enhanced access to one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations while also imparting further momentum to the existing bilateral cooperation between India and the Republic of Maldives. With our state-of-the-art product and intuitively thoughtful services, we are certain that our customers will appreciate the choice of flying India’s best airline on this new route.”

All timings shown are in local time zones, exact timings may differ slightly for respective days of operations

** Subject to regulatory approvals                                                     

Vistara will accept all eligible customers meeting visa/entry requirements in both countries, as specified by the respective government bodies. Vistara strongly encourages its customers to fully understand these guidelines before making their bookings.

Vistara is India’s highest-rated airline on Skytrax and TripAdvisor, and it has been the winner of several ‘Best Airline’ awards, besides being lauded for world-class cabin cleanliness and upholding high safety standards. The only Indian carrier to feature amongst World’s Top 20 Airlines, Vistara has been named ‘16th Best Airline’ globally while also being recognised as the ‘Best Airline in India and South Asia’ for the third time in a row, ‘Best Airline Staff in India and South Asia’ for the fifth consecutive year, ‘Best Cabin Crew in India and South Asia’ for the third time in a row and ‘Best Business Class Airline in India and South Asia’ for the second time in a row at the coveted World Airline Awards 2023 by Skytrax. Vistara also received the ch-aviation Asia’s Third Youngest Airline Fleet award for the second consecutive year

About Vistara (TATA SIA Airlines Limited): TATA SIA Airlines Limited, known by the brand name Vistara, is a 51:49 joint venture between Tata Sons Private Limited and Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA). Vistara brings together Tata’s and SIA’s legendary hospitality and renowned service excellence to offer the finest full-service flying experience in India. Vistara commenced its commercial operations on January 9, 2015, with an aim to set new standards in the aviation industry in India and it today connects destinations across India and abroad. The airline currently has a fleet of 61 aircraft, including 46 Airbus A320neo, 10 Airbus A321, 1 Boeing 737-800NG and 4 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and has flown more than 45 million customers since starting operations.

For more information about Vistara, visit www.airvistara.com.

 

SKYSCANNER COMMITS TO INDIA WITH LAUNCH OF NEW HINDI PRODUCT

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Millions of Indian travelers are now able to plan, search, and book travel in their native language.

  • Skyscanner continues to expand its best-in-class partner network and global audience.

  • Strong demand for both domestic and international travel amongst Indians in 2023.

INDIA, August 2023: Global travel marketplace Skyscanner is today launching a new Hindi language experience across its products and services as part of the company’s commitment to the India market.

Hindi is the third most widely spoken language globally, and the number of internet users accessing content in Hindi is also rising. With the India travel market projected to reach US$ 125 billion by FY27 and Indians increasingly preferring to book travel online, the introduction of a new localized experience will benefit travelers and partners alike in metro cities as well as Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities across the country.

 

India’s domestic and international air travel continues to showcase a strong recovery, surpassing pre-covid levels. This is reflective of travel demand on Skyscanner, with the company observing the highest spike in search volume in 2023 since the pre-pandemic of 2019 for both domestic and international destinations.  Trending routes in August include:

 

  • Srinagar to Jammu

  • Hyderabad to Bengaluru

  • Mumbai to Dubai

  • New Delhi to Seoul

  • Srinagar to New Delhi

Commenting on the launch, Hugh Aitken, VP of Strategic Relations said, “The Indian travel market is one of the fastest growing in the world and we see immense potential to help connect millions of travelers with some of the most ambitious travel providers in the industry. When accessing flight options on Skyscanner travelers will now automatically be redirected to the Hindi locale on the airline or OTA site. As well as native language support, we are also investing across our entire product portfolio, not just for consumers but importantly too for our partners in areas such distribution, advertising, and data.”

 

Skyscanner currently works with market-leading Indian partners such as MakeMyTrip, Indigo, Goibibo, SpiceJet, Yatra, EaseMyTrip, and Cleartrip and is constantly looking to expand its network.

 

Clear trip Partners with Axis Bank; unlocks Industry-first benefits for 12.5 million users

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Bengaluru,August 2023: Cleartrip, a Flipkart company, and Axis Bank, one of the largest private sector banks in India partner to introduce a one-of-a-kind proposition to provide travel benefits to all the existing and new Axis Bank credit cardholders booking through Cleartrip. This collaboration offers customers an array of privileges for domestic flight bookings, including seats valued up to INR 1200, free meals worth up to INR 500, exemption from convenience fees, and the choice to cancel and reschedule flights for a mere Re. 1 under CT FlexMax. Additionally, Axis Bank credit cardholders can access specially curated travel offers without having to wait for collecting/redeem points to enjoy the benefits.

The strategic partnership marks a stark departure from the conventional standards of booking discounts for domestic flights. In the current market landscape, most Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) focus on offering instant cash discounts through partnerships with banks. However, they offset these discounts by imposing substantial convenience fees and additional charges for seats and meals. Furthermore, they often demand a premium for flexible bookings, limited to just cancellations or date changes. In contrast, our program stands out by offering a comprehensive suite of services at a nominal fee of Re.1. This approach eliminates the need for heavy discounts to be covered by inflated convenience fees.

Elaborating on this partnership, Ayyappan R., CEO, Cleartrip said, “Cleartrip is deeply invested in disrupting the OTA space through a transparent and customer-centric approach. Our partnership with Axis Bank is an extension of this commitment. This will include features such as flexible bookings, cancellation options, and date changes, all without any additional costs. This unique proposition truly sets us apart in the market. and is set to benefit close to 12.5 million customers.”

He further adds, “Axis Bank is a trusted financial player with a strong affiliation with Flipkart and a large user base. We are excited about this new chapter and look forward to strengthening this collaboration and elevating our value proposition.”

Speaking on this announcement, Sanjeev Moghe, President & Head, Cards & Payments, Axis Bank, said, “We are delighted to partner with Cleartrip, a brand that shares our vision to provide unmatched customer experiences. We continue to build on innovation-led partnership models to offer customers a value proposition specifically designed to cater to their evolving needs, while delivering greater convenience and more benefits. We have observed that the travel segment is a high engagement area for our customers and this one-of-a-kind proposition with Cleartrip will add immense value to our customers’ travel plans.”

The Cleartrip-Axis Bank collaboration is poised to shape the future of travel with its comprehensive suite of privileges. With customer-centricity fuelling the company's growth, Cleartrip will continue to look at unique value propositions for its users while ensuring sustained growth for the business.

About Cleartrip

Launched in July 2006, Cleartrip Pvt Ltd., a Flipkart company, has emerged as India’s fastest-growing online travel technology company. In April 2021, Flipkart acquired 100% of Cleartrip’s shareholding. Cleartrip recently emerged as the no. 2 OTA player as per a recent study by VIDEC. With an aggressive plan to emerge as a leading innovator in the industry, Cleartrip is on its way to building a differentiated value proposition for its customers looking for end-to-end travel solutions. With industry-first offerings such as ‘CT Flexmax, CT Flex, and CT Upgrade’, Cleartrip has a clear vision to provide innovative solutions in the OTA segment. Combining intuitive products with a customer-centric approach and a wide selection of flights and hotels, Cleartrip brings a unique selling point to the market, offering its customers convenience, choice, competitive prices, and premium content.

About Axis Bank:

About Axis Bank: Axis Bank is one of the largest private sector banks in India. Axis Bank offers the entire spectrum of services to customer segments covering Large and Mid-Corporates, SME, Agriculture, and Retail Businesses. With its 4,945 domestic branches (including extension counters) and 15,798 ATMs across the country as on 30th June 2023, the network of Axis Bank spreads across 2,754 cities and towns, enabling the Bank to reach out to a large cross-section of customers with an array of products and services. The Axis Group includes Axis Mutual Fund, Axis Securities Ltd., Axis Finance, Axis Trustee, Axis Capital, A.TReDS Ltd., Freecharge, Axis Pension Fund and Axis Bank Foundation.

For further information on Axis Bank, please refer to the website: https://www.axisbank.com

Fortune Hotels arrives at Hoshiarpur

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This upscale wedding centric hotel is the premier hotel chain’s fourth hotel in Punjab

 

Hoshiarpur, August 2023: Fortune Hotels, a member of ITC’s hotel group expands its portfolio with Fortune Park Hoshiarpur, a palatial hotel beset on the fringes of the city that boasts of well-appointed stylish rooms, top-of-the-line amenities, an array of F&B outlets, lavish event spaces and lawns for weddings, conferences, special occasions and more.

 

Set amidst the city’s rich cultural roots and its vibrant history the hotel’s idyllic setting, on National Highway 70, makes for a perfect destination for multifarious guests. Be it power business lunches, a birthday celebration with friends, a weekend escape with family or that much sort after dream wedding venue, it can transform into all. The hotel also works as a great pit stop for pilgrims headed on a spiritual journey to Mata Chintapurni.

 

Commenting on the launch, Samir MC, Managing Director of Fortune Hotels said, " We are constantly looking to expand our footprint into potential tier 2 and tier 3 locations across India, for we aim to be where the guest is. Hoshiarpur is special to us as we are the first branded hotel in this colourful and culturally rich town of Punjab. Well connected with key cities like Chandigarh, Jalandhar and Ludhiana it attracts all kinds of travellers from India and abroad. This is our third hotel opening in Punjab in the last three months. Prior to this, we launched two beautiful hotels in Amritsar - Fortune Inn Heritage Walk and Fortune Ranjit Vihar. In addition to these, we also have another property in Jalandhar.”

 

Fortune Park Hoshiarpur has 57 guest rooms featuring modish and contemporary décor. Set around envious views of lush verdant lawns outside, the hotel offers all comforts paramount for guests desirous of a pleasant and comfortable stay in this part of Punjab.

 

Guests looking to appease their taste buds can visit Zodiac, the all-day dining multi-cuisine restaurant that offers the best of world cuisines. Vegetarians, especially devotees verging towards their spiritual journey, can delight their palate at Rainbow, an exclusively vegetarian restaurant inspired by seven cuisines of the world, this restaurant is sure to surprise and satiate. Those looking to celebrate, cheer or simply chill can head to Neptune- bar & lounge that offers a variety of spirits and exciting beverages with delectable finger food served in a modern and chic setting.

 

With the potential to convert into a fanciful wedding destination or a venue for statement business conferences and launches, Fortune Park Hoshiarpur boasts of multiple versatile banqueting spaces of all sizes, besides a ~ 12,000 sq. ft. ballroom with a pre-function that opens into 1.2 lac sq. ft. lush green gardens is a sight to behold. Besides this, the hotel has many modern conference rooms of varying sizes suitable for a variety of business-oriented activities such as meetings, presentations, brainstorming sessions, discussions or family gatherings and social events.

 

One of Punjab’s oldest cities, better known as the land of saints, Hoshiarpur draws travellers all around the year because of its fascinating history, breath-taking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and variety of destinations for tourists to explore, including the revered Takhni Rehmapur Wildlife Sanctuary and the iconic Gurdwara Harian Velan et al.

About Fortune Park Hotels Ltd

Fortune Park Hotels Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of ITC Ltd. and is India's leading chain of first-class, full-service business and leisure hotels, with 59 signed alliances and over 4500 rooms, across 49 cities in the country. 

Fortune Hotels’ brand philosophy is driven by its objective to provide contemporary accommodation to business and leisure travellers through its wide range of accommodation in pertinent destinations, with emphasis on personalized service at great value. 

Convenient locations, excellence of cuisine, efficient service and competitive pricing have made the Fortune Hotels chain popular amongst discerning travellers.

Fortune, a member of ITC’s hotel group has a number of clearly defined sub-brands bringing instant recall, so that guests can easily match their requirements with the chain’s offers. The sub-brands under which the hotels are being operated by the chain are Fortune Select, Fortune Park, Fortune Inn, and Fortune Resort.

Cygnett Hotels rolls out pioneering “Cozzet Collection” model for budget hotels

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Revolutionary hospitality concepts along with cutting-edge and integrated technologies are now being made available to small and medium-sized hotels by Cozzet Hotels, a member of Cygnett Hotels. It is a pathbreaking initiative to organise and improve efficiencies of independent hotels through the “Cozzet Collection” model.

 

New Delhi, August 2023: In a groundbreaking move that is likely to reshape the Indian hospitality landscape, Cozzet Hotels & Resorts has proudly unveiled its latest venture: the “Cozzet Collection”. Cozzet Hotels & Resorts is affiliated with Cygnett Hotels & Resorts.  The objective is to support small and medium-sized unbranded hotel owners and help them improve their technology, marketing, and business know-how. The economy hotel and resort segment is the fastest-growing sector amidst the broader hospitality sector, however, budget hotels do not have access to the latest technology and business solutions.

 

The “Cozzet Collection” model is designed to address critical constraints for small and medium-sized hotel owners and help them reap the benefits of cutting-edge hospitality solutions. It is the most cost-effective and hassle-free business solution for hotel owners.

 

The company has extensively tested the model and three properties in Himachal Pradesh–a region renowned for stunning landscapes and tranquil retreats–are successfully operating under the “Cozzet Collection” umbrella. Considering the efficiencies unlocked by the model, an increasing number of hotels are signing up effortlessly. It is the need of the hour as owners are getting the benefits of the cost-effective technology from the first day. 

 

“Cozzet Collection” is bringing together small and medium-sized independent hotels and resorts to flourish within the organised hospitality industry. This innovative concept addresses the longstanding need for a platform that enhances budget and small-scale hotels, allowing them to access cutting-edge technology and comprehensive marketing support that were once the exclusive domain of larger chains.

 

Mr Sarbendra Sarkar, the visionary Founder & Managing Director of Cygnett Hotels and Resorts & Cozzet Hotels, expressed his enthusiasm for the transformative initiative, "There is immense potential in bringing small hotels from the unorganised sector into the organised hospitality business. We aim to have 10,000 rooms operating under the Cozzet Collection model within the next few years. Our expansion under the brand will include standalone small hotels of less than 40 keys across the country.”

Emphasising the pivotal role of technology, Mr. Sarkar highlighted that Cozzet Collection hotels would benefit from advanced integrated cloud PMS, booking engine, distribution technology, and revenue management systems with its user-friendly interface. In addition, owners/managers will receive fundamental training to maximise the effectiveness of these tools. It is an easy-to-operate, plug-and-play model. The 360-degree digital marketing support by the brand helps create an online presence and get optimum benefits.

Unlike many competitors, Cozzet Hotels and Resorts is committed to financial transparency. The company will directly transfer room payments to hotel owners' accounts, a move aimed at bolstering liquidity for small businesses.

Cozzet Hotels has inherited the DNA of Cygnett Hotels, and adopts its trusted technology and knowledge, and its foray into the transformative venture couldn't come at a more crucial time. With the hospitality industry witnessing a surge in demand for organised services, Cozzet Collection not only addresses the needs of small hotels but also enriches the overall guest experience.

As the hospitality industry in India continues to evolve, Cozzet Hotels & Resorts has emerged as a trailblazing force, bridging the gap between the unorganized and organised sectors, and setting new standards for excellence, transparency, and innovation. The Cozzet Collection model and all Cozzet Hotels are poised to redefine hospitality paradigms, offering a fresh perspective to guests and hoteliers alike.

 

Burgrill Aims to Raise - Capital to Fuel Growth

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The QSR chain is revolutionizing the Culinary Experience Through its Unique Dining Concept

Delhi NCR, August — Burgrill, a cutting-edge culinary startup that has redefined the way people experience food, announced today that it is seeking its first external fundraiser to accelerate its growth and expansion plans. The bootstrapped brand has created a niche for itself in the mass-premium category through a focus on innovation & customization.

 

Burgrill has quickly risen to prominence by introducing a novel dining concept that fuses the traditional charm of a classic burger joint with modern culinary techniques and an emphasis on a personalized dining experience. With its mouth-watering gourmet burgers, handcrafted with premium ingredients and innovative flavours at affordable pricing, Burgrill has gained a loyal following of food enthusiasts and gastronomes. The brand offers a unique menu with equal vegetarian & non-vegetarian options across burgers, wraps, subs & salads.

 

"We're thrilled to embark on this exciting journey as we seek to funding to fuel our expansion and enhance the Burgrill experience for our customers," said Ankur Madan, CEO & Co-Founder, Burgrill. "Our unique concept has struck a chord with diners who are looking for more than just a meal — they want an immersive culinary adventure. This funding will enable us to introduce Burgrill to new markets, enhance our menu offerings, and invest in technology to further elevate our customer interactions. Client Associates Investment Banking team is advising us on this transaction "

 

The funding will be used to support key initiatives, including:

 

Expansion: Burgrill plans to open new flagship locations in high-traffic areas to attract a wider audience and provide more people with the opportunity to savor its exceptional burgers.

 

Menu Innovation: The company aims to continuously evolve its menu with inventive burger creations and exciting sides, staying ahead of culinary trends and surprising customers with delightful flavors.

 

Technology Integration: Burgrill plans to integrate technology solutions to enhance the ordering process, streamline operations, and improve the overall customer experience.

 

Team Growth: Expand its team of culinary experts, marketing professionals, and operations specialists to support its growth trajectory.

 

Burgrill's commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing is an integral part of its ethos. The company prides itself on sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible and minimizing its environmental footprint.

 

About Burgrill:

Launched in 2016, Burgrill was conceptualized by three food fanatics to venture into an untapped segment of fast-food with healthier alternatives and became its pioneer in India. A homegrown QSR brand i.e., an amalgamation of the best that High-end Cafes and International QSR chains have to offer to their patrons but on a much healthier yet pocket-friendly budget. Burgrill launched over 49 outlets in more than 22 cities in India in the last eight years and intends to launch another 40 CoCo stores Pan India. The brand is rapidly growing in the northern states of the nation and aims to capture t- key metros in the next 4-5 years. So far the business crossed 45 Crores in Brand Revenue whilst remaining completely Bootstrapped. It has registered double digit EBITDA Margins and is growing at 50% Y-o-Y.