Business Traveller India September 2025

SEPTEMBER 2025 ` 250

IDEAS THAT MOVE YOU

A DECADE OF GASTRONOMY, GRACE, AND GRAND OCCASIONS

In the heart of the city, Shangri-La Bengaluru marries world-class luxury with the grace of true Asian hospitality. Its 397 refined rooms and suites offer sweeping city views and a sanctuary of calm. Savour the world’s flavours across seven award-winning dining destinations. From delicate dim sum to aromatic curries and indulgent desserts or linger over starlit alfresco evenings. Rejuvenate at CHI, The Spa with ancient Asian rituals, or invigorate at our state-of-the-art Health Club.

From glittering celebrations to private retreats, every moment is touched with the warmth of the Shangri-La family.

IDEAS THAT MOVE YOU

SOUL OF DEUTSCHLAND

MOMENTS PERFECTED IN EVERY DETAIL

At JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, sophistication meets convenience in the city’s most coveted address, steps from UB City and Cubbon Park. Our Grand Ballroom serves as a spectacular setting for weddings and large-scale celebrations, while our versatile banquet spaces such as Turquoise, Agate, Jasper, and Topaz are ideal for meetings and corporate gatherings, all of which can be tailored to suit any occasion.

For weddings, Shaadi by Marriott turns dreams into reality with over 25,000 sq. ft. of stunning venues, including the lush JW Lawns and the chic Merak Brewhouse. Our dedicated wedding team oversees every detail, from curated menus and custom décor to luxurious bridal suites and indulgent spa experiences, ensuring each celebration is flawless and unforgettable.

URBAN

EDITOR’S LETTER

IF TRAVEL IS THE NEW LUXURY, consider this your golden boarding pass to indulgence. Our September issue is a passport-stamped voyage through exquisite experiences.

We begin with Germany’s dual delights (page 28): Frankfurt, where sleek skylines meet haute couture, and Berlin, a city where the spirit waltzes with culinary brilliance. Whether you’re closing deals in designer brogues or sipping chilled Riesling, these cities offer indulgence with an edge.

Closer to home, on page 44, we celebrate the art of Indian hospitality at its most re ned: club rooms that murmur sophistication, and suites so plush they feel like bespoke cocoons. These are not merely hotel stays, but serenades with pillow menus and panoramic views.

In the skies, we explore the elegant ascent of premium economy (page 54), where spacious comfort meets sensible luxury, and your knees rejoice accordingly. We’ve also infused our pages with some of the world’s most decadent fragrances; olfactory masterpieces (page 62) that linger like the perfect holiday. For those drawn to serenity, a tea trail (page 70) through Sri Lanka’s mist-draped highlands promises that every sip is soothing.

Pack light, but dream big; this issue is your invitation to revel in extravagance. Bon voyage, and cheers!

Consulting Editor

CONTRIBUTORS

GEORGE BENNET KURUVILLA

President Hospitality, BIAL and CEO BASL, George is a distinguished hospitality visionary with over 32 years of global luxury expertise. Renowned for redefining airport hospitality in India, he champions innovation with a people-first ethos. His leadership continues to elevate experiential excellence across hospitality frontiers within and beyond the airport ecosystem.

ANAS BENCHEQROUN

Anas is the Multi-Property General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong and W Hong Kong, bringing over 20 years of global luxury expertise. From his current tenure to the iconic Four Seasons George V and Bulgari Resort Dubai, his visionary leadership redefines elevated living. Explore his insights on balancing luxury and sustainability on page 26 .

HEMAL JAIN

Hemal, General Manager of Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London, brings over two decades of distinguished global luxury hospitality experience. Renowned for visionary leadership and award-winning innovation, he champions exceptional guest experiences and team excellence. Discover his perspective on harnessing guest feedback to elevate luxury service, featured on page 27.

Virgin Atlantic’s transatlantic edge

Flying from India to the United States with seamless connections to New York, Atlanta, and Seattle.

ACCESS TO THE UNITED STATES

The most influential cities are now a flight away with daily departures linking India to New York, Atlanta, and Seattle. Designed for discerning travellers, every detail of the journey, from bespoke cabins to award-winning inflight services, is reflective of their commitment to comfort and productivity.

NEW YORK CITY

A daily eight-hour flight links India directly to the city that never pauses. From Central Park’s calm avenues to Williamsburg’s creative edge, New York remains boundless.

ATLANTA

The “Big Peach” is a city of transformation. The birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, now a hub of music, museums, and soul food, balances both history and creativity.

SEATTLE

Innovation confluences with natural splendour in Seattle, where Puget Sound vistas frame landmarks like the Space

Needle and the artistry of Chihuly Garden.

SEATS AND CABINS

Every journey begins with choice. Economy offers three tiers, from streamlined essentials to added space and priority boarding. Premium introduces a step-change in experience with wider leather seating, generous pitch, and curated dining, all complemented by priority services that smooth the airport journey. At the pinnacle, Upper Class redefines transatlantic travel with fully flat beds, exclusive Clubhouse access, private security, and the new Retreat Suite aboard the A330neo, a benchmark of design and discretion in the skies.

INFLIGHT SERVICES

Every detail of the journey, from bespoke cabins to award-winning infl ight services, is refl ective of their commitment

journey as rewarding as the destination.

VIRGIN POINTS

Your journeys become more rewarding through Virgin Points, a currency that transforms miles into possibilities. Whether used for upgrades, curated stays, or exclusive experiences, each trip extends well beyond its destination.

Travel in style with afternoon tea at altitude, refreshing treats, and thoughtful parting gestures create a rhythm of indulgence across the flight. In Premium and Upper Class, a dedicated snack bar further ensures comfort at any hour, while entertainment and attentive service make the www.virginatlantic.com

PUBLISHER & CEO RAVI LALWANI

MANAGING DIRECTOR JULIAN GREGORY

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MEENA LALWANI

EDITORIAL

CONSULTING EDITOR KHURSHEED MISTRY

PRODUCTION & DESIGN HEAD AMIT CHAVAN

FEATURES WRITER NAINA SARMA

SOCIAL MEDIA & FEATURES EXECUTIVE MARIA VERGHESE

CONTRIBUTORS GEORGE BENNET KURUVILLA, ANAS BENCHEQROUN, HEMAL JAIN, GARGI GUHA

ADVERTISING

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EMAIL RAVI@PANACEAPUBLISHING.CO.IN

CONTACT

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Business Traveller India is published 11 times a year at our address (right). Business Traveller India is the first of its kind to be published in India. The magazine is entirely independent of all commercial interests within the travel industry. All rights reserved in respect of all content, articles, illustrations and photography published in Business Traveller India anywhere in the world. Reproductions or imitations are expressly forbidden without the permission of the publishers. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be accepted for publication and Business Traveller India accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to them. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers, who cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.

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AVIATION TRAVEL HOTELS SUSTAINABILITY

Goa-Gatwick to resume flights

Velana International Aiport, Maldives

Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, Raffles

Udaipur

Veganism in hospitality

Dispatch

The latest business travel updates

STOCKHOLM

Nordic elegance set upon the water

Strung across 14 islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea, Stockholm is a city of luminous waterways, storied architecture, and effortless Scandinavian style. Often called the ‘Venice of the North’, Sweden’s capital is a harmonious blend of royal heritage, cutting-edge design, and an enviable quality of life. From the moment one arrives, Stockholm casts its spell.

dusted with snow. Evenings unfold in boutique hotels housed in 17th-century buildings, where candlelit lounges serve spiced glögg. Private cruises through the icy archipelago reveal tranquil landscapes, with seals basking on frosted rocks and quiet bays framed by pine forests.

Summer transforms the city into a realm of endless days. The golden hours stretch past midnight, and the archipelago’s 30,000 islands beckon with sandy coves, red wooden cottages, and secluded picnic spots. Tailored yacht charters glide between islets, where guests savour Baltic seafood feasts under pastel skies.

Stockholm’s cultural riches are as captivating as its nature. The Vasa Museum houses a perfectly preserved 17th-century warship, while Fotografiska stirs the senses with contemporary photography. The Royal Palace stands watch over the city, its ceremonial halls as resplendent as its history.

Gastronomy here is an art form rooted in seasonal, local ingredients. Juniper-smoked reindeer, herring with dill, and wild cloudberries appear on menus crafted by Michelin-starred chefs blending tradition with modern finesse. Meals are served in waterfront dining rooms, glass-walled greenhouses, or open-air terraces overlooking glistening canals.

Stockholm is a place where luxury is defined by light, space, and a deep connection to water, where every experience, from morning fika to midnight sailing, feels quietly extraordinary. For those seeking beauty with depth, Stockholm is a city to be savoured, not rushed.

Maldives opens new terminal at Velana International Airport

New airport terminal in the Maldives

THE MALDIVES HAS INAUGURATED a $585 million passenger terminal at Velana International Airport (MLE), expanding annual capacity to 7.5 million passengers, more than triple its previous limit. Opened on July 26, 2025, the facility marks the nation’s largest-ever building project with modern architecture and Maldivian design motifs, it features 47 check-in counters, six self-service kiosks, 20 immigration counters, six boarding gates, and 12 aerobridges. Financed through loans from Gulf development funds and

national allocations, the terminal is central to the Maldives’ strategy to strengthen its tourism-driven economy, which accounts for 21% of GDP. The expansion aims to remove infrastructure constraints, support projected medium-term economic growth of 5.2%, and help meet the government’s $5 billion tourism revenue target.

The Maldives Monetary Authority reported a 9% rise in arrivals in H1 2025, driven by China and European markets, with renewed efforts to attract 300,000 Indian visitors this year.

95 Years of Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts

For 95 years, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts have stood for genuine hospitality, timeless elegance, and a legacy of excellence. Since 1930, the brand has grown into a global icon of tradition and exceptional experiences, particularly in MICE and business travel. At H Rewards, we bring you this heritage through premium locations, tailored business solutions, and service that caters to your needs when travelling from India.

Meet Steigenberger in Frankfurt and Berlin

Welcome to Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof in Frankfurt and Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt in Berlin: two unique hotels offering historic charm and modern business comfort. With central locations in Frankfurt and Berlin, the hotels provide a convenient, luxurious and wellconnected setting for international business travel.

Frankfurt and Berlin: At the Core of Influence

Frankfurt is Europe’s financial heartbeat, and the Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof is its proud pulse.

Located in Frankfurt’s historic and financial centre, it has hosted leaders and innovators since 1876. The original architecture impresses, but it’s also the unique atmosphere that captivates: here, you can experience traditional luxury and heritage throughout the hotel, alongside modern five-star service for business travellers and meeting plannersideal for those who lead with both tradition and innovation. In Berlin, Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt offers direct proximity to the German Chancellery, the Reichstag (German Parliament building), and Berlin Central Station. For Indian travellers active in government, tech, or global business, this is the place to be. Organising major events is daily business for the hotel, and you can

even benefit from synergies with its sister hotel, IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, located right next door, offering meeting and hotel rooms in a comfortable, welcoming, and modern environment.

Designed for Deals and Dialogues

Both hotels combine elegant venues with modern technology. Need a quiet space for a confidential merger briefing? Or a chandelier-lit ballroom for a multinational product launch? Frankfurter Hof has done both, perfectly curated and executed. In Berlin, 12 bright, tech-equipped conference rooms offer inspiring views of Berlin’s political center and settings for hybrid events, with support from multilingual staff and tailored catering. The hotel never ceases to remind you that you are doing business at the heart of one of Europe’s decisionmaking capitals.

An Invitation to Experience More

For Indian travellers accustomed to elevated service and attention to detail, both hotels are well-versed in their needs. They offer curated culinary experiences (including vegetarian and culturally tailored options), wellness sanctuaries to reset after a long-haul flight, and concierge teams attuned to every cultural nuance, from Indian newspapers to discreet business customs. Whether you are closing deals in Frankfurt’s financial core or forging new alliances in Berlin’s political circles, Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof and Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt offer tailored accommodation and meeting experiences built on true hospitality, rich heritage, and an ambition to shape the future.

GOA-GATWICK DIRECT FLIGHTS TO RESUME BY SEPTEMBER-END

AIR INDIA WILL RESUME ITS direct flights between Goa’s Manohar International Airport and London Gatwick by the end of September 2025. The reinstated route strengthens Goa’s international air connectivity and supports the state’s vision to expand access from key global markets.

Additionally, Aeroflot Airlines is set to launch a new route connecting Yekaterinburg, Russia to Goa with three weekly flights starting 5 October 2025. This new service is projected to bring over 13,000 Russian visitors during the season.

Goa’s international arrivals continue to grow steadily with new air corridors already established from Poland, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. From January to June 2025 alone, the state welcomed 54.5 lakh tourists, marking an 8.4% year-on-year increase.

Hotel occupancy in H1 2025 ranged between 70%100%, reflecting strong demand driven by cultural experiences, nature-based stays, and improved access across air routes.

AKASA AIR PARTNERS WITH UDAAN INDIA TO LAUNCH ENDTO-END VISA SERVICE

AKASA AIR HAS INTRODUCED a seamless visa assistance service in collaboration with Udaan India, offering travellers an end-to-end, digital-first solution across 100+ countries. The service is now integrated into Akasa Air’s website, catering to both leisure and business travellers.

With over 30 years of experience, Udaan India brings expert support across every stage ranging from documentation and submission to real-time tracking, ensuring a transparent and personalised process.

To mark the launch, Akasa Air is offering a 20% discount on visa service fees with the code EVISA20, valid until 31 December 2025.

This initiative reinforces Akasa Air’s commitment to seamless travel, adding visa assistance to a growing portfolio of value-added services such as USB-equipped seating, Café Akasa gourmet meals, pet-friendly travel, and onboard Braille materials, ensuring a smooth, connected experience from booking to boarding.

PARK HYATT ENTERS MALAYSIA WITH ITS 50TH GLOBAL PROPERTY

HYATT HOTELS CORPORATIOn has opened Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, marking the brand’s debut in Malaysia and its 50th global property. Occupying levels 75-114 of Merdeka 118, Asia Pacific’s tallest skyscraper, the 252 guestrooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, walk-in dressing rooms, personal studies, and in select units, private dining areas.

Designed by G.A Group, interiors blend Malay Kampung-inspired elements with contemporary luxury. Facilities include Merdeka Grill, Park Lounge, and Cacao Mixology & Chocolate, the city’s first chocolate-themed bar. Wellness amenities span a yoga studio, fitness centre, circadian therapy spa, vitality pool, and a 30-metre infinity pool with skyline views.

Meeting spaces comprise flexible executive salons with natural light and advanced technology. Located within the Merdeka 118 Precinct, the property integrates cultural experiences such as guided heritage tours, supporting Kuala Lumpur’s regeneration under the Warisan KL initiative.

RAFFLES UDAIPUR MARKS FOUR YEARS WITH NEW LAKESIDE EXPERIENCES

RAFFLES UDAIPUR, the brand’s first outpost in India, celebrates four years of elevated hospitality amidst the scenic Udai Sagar Lake. Surrounded by the Aravallis, the hotel welcomes guests to experience Raffles’ signature elegance. The anniversary month commenced in August.

The property is celebrated for its breathtaking architecture and design, acknowledged as one of India’s most iconic wedding destinations. Celebrated for its exceptional culinary artistry, Sawai Kitchen, an award-winning fine dining venue, is renowned for its impeccable guest experience. The bars and bespoke mixology programmes have been praised for their creativity and innovation. Meanwhile, the Raffles Spa is honoured as one of the finest wellness retreats in the country.

To commemorate this milestone, Raffles Udaipur unveils an exclusive ‘Anniversary Stay Longer’ offer for guests to extend their stay on one of India’s most enchanting island retreats. The anniversary month will continue to unfold with thoughtfully curated experiences and other exclusive offerings.

ERB WEDTH ROUGH T I EM

Coffee has evolved from its ancient origins into a globally cherished beverage, celebrated for its rich flavours and ability to connect people across diverse traditions

COFFEE IS NOT MERELY a beverage; it is a ritual, a reverie, an exquisite thread interwoven into the fabric of human culture and emotion. From the morning steam in a porcelain cup to the hushed clink of espresso glasses in dim-lit cafés, coffee marks the rhythm of our days and the pulse of our lives. It dances through time, as rich in narrative as it is in flavour, tracing a path of devotion, discovery, and desire.

philosophers, authors, poets, and statesmen. In candlelit corners of London and Paris, ideas flowed as freely as the brew itself. Coffee became the ink of revolutions, the muse of science, the confidante of creativity.

Coffee marks the rhythm of our days and the pulse of our lives

Its earliest whispers were divine: Ethiopian monks turned to this dark elixir to carry their prayers through the long, sacred hours. From the sanctity of those mountain monasteries, the beans began their journey, crossing deserts and seas, embraced in the fragrant courtyards of the Middle East where their aroma mingled with jasmine and the echo of evening prayers. There, coffee transformed from a monk’s companion to an indulgence steeped with cardamom and conversation. When it swept into 17th-century Europe, it ignited a renaissance of the mind. Coffeehouses: those smoky salons dubbed ‘‘penny universities” welcomed

As the Industrial Revolution thundered into existence, coffee evolved again, becoming the quiet hero of labour and ambition. From the espresso bars of Milan to the diners of New York, it was both a stimulant and a statement, propelling the world forward with every concentrated sip. Nations carved legacies from their cultivation: Brazil’s sprawling plantations, Yemen’s mystic port of Mocha, Java’s verdant hills, and India’s secret seeds, all telling tales of empire, enterprise, and enchantment.

Even today, the story unfolds. In Seoul’s whimsical cafés, where blossoms and records frame each pour, and in the solemn grace of Ethiopian coffee ceremonies, the drink remains a mirror of its people. Whether as a moment of solitude or a ritual of gathering, coffee is distilled history, a memory, and artistry in every cup.

Growingupwards

Vertical gardens are transforming city skylines into living, breathing ecosystems

From Paris to Singapore, Sydney to Milan, a quiet green revolution is creeping skyward. Vertical gardens, once the domain of avant-garde architects, are now sprouting on office towers, hotels, and homes around the world. They’re not just pretty façades. They’re the answer to a very modern question: how do you bring nature back when cities have run out of space?

The appeal is both practical and poetic. In a warming world, green walls act as natural insulation, cooling buildings and reducing energy use. They filter air by trapping dust and pollutants, a welcome respite in smog-heavy cities. In an age when our lives are surrounded by concrete, they offer psychological relief, lush, textured reminders that nature still has a place in the urban landscape.

Singapore has long understood the value of this balance. Its Oasia Hotel Downtown, wrapped in a veil of climbing plants, doesn’t just make for an Instagram-worthy skyline; it lowers surrounding temperatures and supports biodiversity. Paris’ Musée du Quai Branly, designed by botanist Patrick Blanc, draws thousands of visitors not just for its art, but

for its living wall of over 15,000 plants. In Sydney, One Central Park makes a bold statement: the city of the future will be green, and it will grow vertically.

Perhaps the most compelling example is Milan’s Bosco Verticale, two residential towers that serve as urban forests. Designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti, these towers feature over 9,000 trees, 20,000 plants, and 11,000 shrubs distributed across their facades, creating a unique urban ecosystem. A variety of birds have made their homes here, proving that vertical gardens can do more than decorate; they can restore ecosystems in the heart of the city.

As cities become hotter, denser, and more disconnected from the natural world, vertical gardens are gaining traction because they solve multiple problems at once. They’re environmental technology wrapped in beauty. They’re wellness architecture that also tells a story. And with advances in irrigation, plant selection, and modular systems, they’re more accessible than ever before. Vertical gardens are no passing trend: they are the blueprint for a greener urban future, proof that when we run out of ground, we can always grow upwards.

Explore

Eat, drink, shop, relax

DAY

A tapestry of senses

From bustling markets and inventive fine dining to serene bays and century-old temples, Vietnam is a country that rewards both curiosity and indulgence. Whether you’re wandering heritage streets, paddling through emerald waters, or tasting flavours crafted with generations of skill, each experience feels both timeless and refreshingly new.

From bustling markets and inventive fine dining to serene bays and century-old temples, Vietnam is a

Retail therapy

Vietnam’s retail scene is as dynamic as its skyline. In Hanoi, the Old Quarter’s narrow lanes are lined with tailors who can turn around a bespoke suit in days, while upscale malls like Vincom Centre in Ho Chi Minh City showcase global luxury alongside Vietnamese designers reinterpreting traditional motifs. For something distinctly local, the lantern markets of Hoi An and craft cooperatives in Sapa offer handwoven textiles and lacquerware that make for meaningful mementoes. Whether sealing a deal over coffee or stealing a spare hour between meetings, shopping here relays efficiency with cultural immersion.

A taste of Vietnam

Vietnam’s dining scene is as compelling as its landscapes, offering everything from vibrant street food to refined tasting menus. Met Vietnamese Restaurant in Hanoi delivers heritage flavours with contemporary finesse, while Michelin-starred Gia reimagines traditional recipes with seasonal ingredients and modern technique. Indulge in a steaming bowl of pho at a roadside stall, sample banh mi in the Mekong Delta, or enjoy a leisurely coffee in one of the country’s many French-inspired cafés, a nod to its colonial past.

There is always an adventure tailored for those balancing leisure with a business itinerary

Adventures between agendas

Vietnam’s landscapes invite exploration. Cat Ba Island offers an unforgettable kayaking cruise through Lan Ha Bay’s emerald waters and hidden lagoons, while nearby national parks provide invigorating hikes. Closer to urban hubs, a quick escape to the terraced rice fields of Ninh Binh or the Mekong Delta’s floating markets offers a taste of the countryside without demanding a full-day detour. There is always an adventure tailored for those balancing leisure with a business itinerary.

Culture in context

Vietnam’s cultural heritage is best experienced in moments of quiet reflection. The Temple of Literature in Hanoi, a serene 11th-century complex, offers respite from the city’s buzz while reflecting its scholarly traditions. In Ho Chi Minh City, the Fine Arts Museum showcases colonialera architecture and contemporary Vietnamese talent. Traditional water puppet performances, calligraphy workshops, and evening strolls past French colonial façades offer meaningful cultural touchpoints, enriching even the briefest of stays.

The freezedried revolution

Freeze-drying gets a gourmet upgrade, transforming everyday ingredients into culinary experiences

Freeze-drying, once synonymous with utilitarian trail food, is undergoing a delicious and salubrious makeover, powered by a new wave of food-tech innovation.

Cutting-edge freeze-drying technology now preserves up to 98% of the nutrients in fruits and vegetables, far surpassing traditional drying methods. One breakthrough format is fast-dissolving nutricosmetics that melt effortlessly on the tongue, with no water, no pills required. Each serving can deliver concentrated fruit or vegetable purées alongside active ingredients such as collagen, vitamins, or hyaluronic acid, offering a clean-label, additivefree boost for skin, hair, and overall wellness.

Free from gelatin, added sugars, and artificial colours, these formats are redefining the supplement experience with purity and precision. The same technology also enables tailored formulations that target specific benefits like energy, beauty, or brain health, making it as versatile for the wellness

market as it is effective.

Freeze-drying is also reinventing the way we enjoy indulgent classics. Take cheesecake: once a dessert confined to plates and forks, it can now be savoured in crisp, bite-sized form while still retaining the creamy richness of the original. Flavours span timeless favourites like New York or strawberry to inventive seasonal twists such as eggnog or caramel apple. Without preservatives or artificial flavourings, these shelf-stable treats are equally at home at an elegant afternoon tea or in a backpack on a mountain trail. Together, these innovations prove that freeze-drying can deliver on nutrition, flavour, and convenience, heralding a new era of smart snacking where health and indulgence meet in perfect harmony.

Rooted in purpose

Veganism as a hospitality philosophy shapes guest experiences through ethical practices

Studies show over 40% of global travellers are now actively seeking plant-based food options when dining or booking accommodations. Cities like Tel Aviv, Berlin, Bangkok, and Los Angeles have become hotbeds of this demand, influencing the industry standards across continents. Global hotel brands have taken notice and are introducing plantforward offerings as part of their core service model. Vegan room service menus, dairy-free minibars, and breakfast spreads filled with plant-based alternatives are becoming common in luxury properties.

Studies show over 40% of global travellers are now actively seeking plant- based food options

Some boutique stays, particularly in wellnessdriven destinations like Bali and Tulum are branding themselves as fully vegan hotels, ensuring everything from linen to toiletries is cruelty-free. Beyond rooms, the biggest evolution is happening in kitchens. Chefs are crafting refined vegan menus featuring dishes like jackfruit tacos, beetroot carpaccio, and tofu biryani. Fine-dining restaurants now offer multi-course plantbased tasting menus paired with biodynamic wines. These innovations cater not only to vegans but also to flexitarians, vegetarians, and those with dietary restrictions, broadening appeal while reducing food costs and environmental impact. The events and MICE segment is also aligning with this movement. Corporations are requesting green catering, while retreats and wellness resorts are blending plantbased dining with holistic wellness programming. Vegan cooking classes, eco-conscious team-building activities, and sustainable event planning are on the rise. Operationally, hotels are switching to vegan leather furniture, organic cotton bedding, cruelty-free spa products, and eco-certified cleaning supplies. Some are sourcing local produce to minimise food miles and carbon emissions, further strengthening their sustainability narratives.

However, the path isn’t without challenges. In many regions, access to premium plant-based ingredients remains limited. There’s also a learning curve in the training kitchen and housekeeping teams to prevent cross-contamination and deliver truly vegan experiences. Cultural preferences must be balanced thoughtfully with innovation.

Yet, the outlook remains strong. With the rise of food technology, including lab-grown meat and plantbased dairy alternatives, and growing awareness across markets, veganism is poised to expand its influence even further. The plant-based movement is no longer a culinary trend; it’s a business imperative. For hospitality providers seeking relevance, loyalty, and long-term sustainability, embracing this shift is not only strategic, it’s essential.

Insight

Expert opinions on the future of travel

THE BIG INTERVIEW

CEO BASL AND VP Hospitality evolving trends and future of

CEO BASL AND VP HOSPITALITY BIAL

Business Traveller India chats with George Bennet Kuruvilla, CEO BASL AND VP Hospitality BIAL, about the transformation, evolving trends and future of airport lounge experiences at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru

Q&

AGEORGE BENNET KURUVILLA

How are you evolving the airport lounge experience to meet the expectations of modern travellers seeking personalisation and comfort?

At Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport), our aim has always been to create spaces that go beyond utility, and our 080 Lounges at Terminal 2 reflect that belief. These are thoughtfully designed environments where each traveller’s journey feels seen, valued, and enhanced. Whether it’s through curated wellness treatments, our signature Sunday brunch, or immersive festive events, we’re focused on crafting ‘moments

of pause’ that stay with passengers. For premium and business travellers, dedicated zones like the Shalimar VIP Lounge (International), Qila & Courtyard Club (Domestic), and workspaces like Business Connect ensure we’re meeting both function and feeling. We’ve also taken care to bring storytelling into our spaces, like Snug for book lovers or Radio House and Talkies, which celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage. Every element from service to setting is designed to bring a quiet sense of comfort, connection, and ease.

How are digital tools like AI, facial recognition, or mobile apps integrated into your lounge services?

Digital integration serves as an integral pillar elevating the guest experience at BLR Airport, and our lounges are an extension of that commitment. Through our loyalty program and utilising the BLR Pulse app, guests can pre-book lounge access, explore services, and avoid queues, all with just a few taps. We’ve also introduced a ‘No Queue Management System’ through the DreamFolks landing page, helping users verify card eligibility in advance. These tools ensure the experience is not just smooth, but smart, simplifying access while elevating the overall journey.

Premium leisure travel is outpacing business travel in some regions.

How have you adapted your lounge offerings to suit this shift in demographics?

We’ve recognised the shift and adapted by evolving our culinary approach to suit a wider spectrum of travellers. Our lounge menus now reflect global inspiration while retaining the richness of regional Indian flavours, appealing to the tastes of every traveller. The live kitchen is a particular favourite, bringing in a sense of customisation, interaction, and freshness to every plate. It’s a space where leisure travellers find familiarity and delight, and business travellers can unwind with food that feels personal. It’s this balance that defines the overall lounge and passenger experience.

GEORGE

These are thoughtfully designed environments where each traveller’s journey feels seen, valued, and enhanced

Wellness is a growing priority for travellers. What amenities or services have you introduced to enhance passenger well-being in lounges?

Well-being is a core part of the 080 Lounge experience. We want to provide passengers with self-care that is easy and accessible, in a space that might sometimes feel overwhelming. At both the International and Domestic Lounges at BLR Airport’s Terminal 2, we’ve introduced Haveli Spa and Raya Spa, respectively, spaces where guests can find calm and restoration before they fly. We’ve made these services flexible, with quick 20-minute therapies or longer sessions depending on the traveller’s schedule. From express grooming to full-body

relaxation, these offerings ensure travellers feel refreshed, grounded, and cared for, right in the heart of their journey.

How are you aligning your lounge operations with sustainability goals?

Sustainability is deeply embedded in how we operate, not just in principle, but in practice. From using recycled paper napkins and wooden QR codes to eliminating single-use plastics, we’ve taken conscious steps to minimise our footprint. Our celebrations and activations are also curated with eco-friendly décor and mindful gifting. Behind the scenes, our teams consistently monitor energy and water use to ensure our operations remain efficient and

At the core of it all is our belief that comfort should be universally accessible

responsible. Sustainability, to us, is not a separate vertical it’s how we approach everything. 080, as a lounge, is a Platinum LEED-certified space, thoughtfully designed with a focus on sustainability at its core.

Many airports are becoming ‘experience hubs.’ How do you collaborate with airports and airlines to stay relevant in this evolving landscape?

Collaboration is central to how we operate. We work closely with airline and aggregator partners to co-create

seasonal and cultural experiences at our lounges. These include everything from mixology sessions and curated menus to immersive activations around events like Halloween or St. Patrick’s Day. By aligning our lounge programming with the airport’s broader storytelling, we ensure that travellers get a chance to engage with these curated experiences, allowing us to collaborate closely and contribute to enhancing the overall airport experience for travellers.

What strategies are in place to ensure consistency in service quality across multiple lounge locations globally or regionally?

Consistency, for us, begins with culture. Our Platinum Passport recognition program enables real-time acknowledgement of team members who go above and beyond. It’s a small but powerful way to reinforce the values we want reflected across every touchpoint. We also closely track our Net Promoter Score (NPS) and guest reviews on platforms like Google My Business. These insights help us course-correct when needed and ensure that every guest, regardless of location, receives the same warmth, attentiveness, and quality they’ve come to expect from our widely appreciated 080 lounges.

How are you addressing the growing demand for access flexibility, such as pay-per-use, credit card partnerships, or digital lounge

We’ve addressed the gap by widening access and making lounge experiences more inclusive. Our seating capacity now accommodates over 500 guests, and we’ve partnered with all major credit card networks for seamless entry. The BLR Pulse app also enables pre-booking, giving guests more control over how and when they use the lounge. At the core of it all is our belief that comfort should be universally accessible, and the lounge should feel welcoming to every kind of traveller.

The luxury hospitality industry in Hong Kong stands at a fascinating crossroad, where discerning travellers now seek experiences that resonate with their values as much as accommodations. Luxury today transcends grand spaces and exclusive services rooted in meaningful connections while embracing sustainability. At The RitzCarlton, Hong Kong and W Hong Kong, we champion this dual vision, proving that luxury and sustainability are harmonious pillars of modern hospitality.

The shift in guest expectations

The travellers are increasingly prioritising sustainability alongside luxury and seek hotels that align with their ethos. Our partnerships with local organisations reflect this commitment. By providing training and employment opportunities for people of determination and organising volunteer initiatives like clean-up hikes and Earth Hour participation, we foster holistic development while enriching the guest experience. These efforts are not just corporate responsibilities; they are integral to the stories our guests carry home.

BALANCING LUXURY AND SUSTAINABILITY

A new paradigm in hotel management

Innovative sustainability in luxury

Sustainability is woven into every facet of our operations. From paperless check-ins and digital newspapers to electric limousines and the Nordaq filtration system, we minimise our environmental footprint while maintaining our luxury standard. In our guest rooms, we have glass water bottles or canned water options, along with refillable amenity dispensers, replace single-use plastics, complemented by plasticfree bathroom amenities and

Luxury today transcends grand spaces and exclusive services rooted in meaningful connections while embracing

sustainability

clearly labelled recycling bins to encourage guest participation. Our culinary teams prioritise seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and employ food waste analysis machines to ensure efficiency. Through collaborations with food donation programs, surplus food is donated to those in need, turning sustainability into a shared mission with our community.

The human

touch in a digital age

While technology enhances personalisation, it is the human connection that defines true luxury. At our properties, we leverage tools like the Marriott Bonvoy app for mobile keys, yet our teams are trained to go beyond algorithms. Whether remembering a guest’s preference or crafting a surprise moment, it is the sincerity of our staff that transforms stays into unforgettable experiences. This balance feels seamless and thoughtful.

The future of luxury hospitality in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s hospitality industry stands at the forefront of this new era, where luxury is measured by its positive impact. At The Ritz-Carlton and W Hong Kong, we are proud to lead this charge, demonstrating that sustainability is an opportunity to innovate and elevate the guest experience. Ultimately, the most luxurious stay is one that leaves a lasting impression on the world around us. We invite our peers and guests to join us in redefining what luxury means for the future.

n the world of luxury hospitality, the guest is the cornerstone of everything a brand stands for.

The oft-quoted phrase “Guest is God” resonates in this sector, where expectations are exceptionally high and, understandably, the margin for error is slim. Understanding guest feedback and addressing any concerns with humility is, therefore, not just a best practice; it is essential for long-term success.

At its core, guest feedback serves as a mirror reflecting the true quality of service. It offers direct insights into where the hotel is doing well and, more importantly, where we can improve. Rather than viewing negative comments as setbacks, luxury operators must approach them with gratitude and openness. This mindset helps to consistently improve service quality, ultimately leading to more meaningful and personalised experiences.

Furthermore, consistently incorporating guest feedback contributes to building a robust reputation and cultivating a culture of excellence. By acting upon constructive criticism with sincerity and humility, brands demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement. This enhances the immediate experience, builds long-term trust and credibility in the market.

A focus on guest feedback also strengthens guest loyalty and drives repeat business. In a competitive market where brand differentiation is often subtle, emotional connections and a sense of being heard are what

OPINION

GUEST FEEDBACK POWERS EXCELLENCE IN LUXURY HOSPITALITY

Sustaining brand loyalty through humility, by feedback and effective resolution

truly set one property apart from another. Guests who feel valued are far more likely to return and recommend the hotel to others, ultimately contributing to a solid and recurring clientele base.

From a business standpoint, feedback should be treated as valuable data. Employing a data-driven strategy to analyse trends, zero in on frequently mentioned pain points and track improvements over time is vital. By turning guest insights into actionable intelligence, the management can make decisions that align with operational goals and enhance shareholder value. Feedback is a driver of profitability and long-term financial health. Encouraging guests to share their opinions is also critical to fostering transparency and building

A focus on guest feedback also strengthens guest loyalty and drives

repeat business

trust. Whether comments are glowing or critical, the act of asking for feedback sends a clear message: the hotel cares, listens and wants to improve. This proactive approach aligns with the luxury ethos, where every detail matters and every voice counts.

Finally, integrating feedback into staff training ensures that teams are equipped to meet expectations with authenticity. When colleagues see that guest comments are taken seriously, it boosts morale and instils a culture of ownership and pride. This translates into genuine, heartfelt guest interactions.

In conclusion, in luxury hospitality, humility in the face of feedback is a strength. By embedding guest insights into operations, properties can continue to deliver exemplary services. This is a philosophy we wholeheartedly believe in and practise at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London, where every guest interaction is an opportunity to listen, learn and elevate the experience even further.

Frankfurt and Berlin: the dual pulse of German culture

GLAMOUR URBAN

Frankfurt is where luxury meets seasonal charm. In autumn, golden leaves frame stylish streets with boutiques and artisan cafés. Come winter, festive markets and designer shops dazzle. Nearby, the Rheingau wine region offers crisp vintages and scenic escapes. Back in the city, fine dining, rich coffee culture, and elegant hotels, some in historic buildings, define indulgence. Frankfurt is Germany’s hidden, nuanced gem of flavour and year-round sophistication.

Berlin blends rich heritage with modern luxury in every corner. Majestic landmarks echo centuries of culture, while boutiques invite indulgent shopping experiences. Savour gourmet cuisine and artisanal cocktails in eclectic restaurants and bars, or discover its vibrant art and timeless history. At day’s end, unwind in opulent hotels where luxury and comfort meet Berlin’s cultural soul.

GOLDEN LEAVES AND GLITTERING LIGHTS FRANKFURT

AUTUMN ALLURE

As summer fades, Frankfurt is a palette of burnished gold, crimson, and soft amber. Autumn is an exquisite time to visit, when crisp air and clear skies set the scene for riverside strolls, leisurely bike rides, or tranquil boat cruises along the Main. The Palmengarten and the vast Stadtwald, glowing with colours, create an idyllic urban escape.

October welcomes the renowned Frankfurt Book Fair, drawing literary minds with public events, readings, and exhibitions. Art lovers are drawn to the museum embankment, where the Städel, German Film Museum, and Jewish Museum host special seasonal exhibitions. Evenings bring world-class music at the Frankfurt Opera and the Old Opera House. Culinary delights abound, from cosy apple wine taverns in Old Sachsenhausen serving local classics like Green Sauce and Handkäs (special sour milk cheese), to seasonal treats such as pumpkin, meat, and the first pour of Federweiser (young wine), perfectly paired with a slice of warm onion tart.

THE RHEINGAU: THE LAND OF GOLDEN VINES

WHERE AUTUMN TASTES LIKE RIESLING

A CONFLUENCE OF CULTURES

The grandeur of Eberbach Monastery, bathed in the afternoon light, speaks of a monastic past and cinematic fame, while a cable car ride to the Niederwald Monument reveals panoramic views of verdant slopes tumbling into the serpentine Rhine. Classical concerts, harvest-themed markets, and seasonal celebrations infuse the Rheingau’s tranquillity with a cultured vibrancy. The renowned Rheingau Musik Festival lingers into early autumn, offering performances in ambient venues where the music resonates with timeless charm.

FALL FLAVOURS AND THE MAJESTIC RHINE

Seasonal cuisine in the Rheingau is rustic and refined: from roasted goose, velvety pumpkin soup, and game meat, paired with young wine (Federweißer) or freshly bottled vintages. Beneath Chestnut trees at candlelit wine taverns, time stands still, and the celebrations linger into twilight.

For the discerning traveller, the Rheingau in autumn offers renewal and rejuvenation. Hike the Rheinsteig, drift along the river, or simply sip and savour beneath a golden sky. Here, nature, history, and serendipity converge in perfect harmony.

RHEINGAU WINE FESTIVAL

As autumn unfurls its golden veil across the Rheingau, this fabled stretch along the Rhine transforms into a bejewelled canvas of colour, culture, and indulgence. Just a short drive beyond Frankfurt’s fast pulse, the region whispers an invitation to surrender to its understated splendour during the vibrant harvest season.

Rolling vineyards are resplendent in hues of saffron and crimson, their foliage catching the soft, amber light. The crisp air is alive with the perfume of crushed leaves, earthy fragrances, and the hills echo with the rhythm of the centuries-old tradition of grape picking.

From the storybook towns of Eltville to Rüdesheim, baroque facades and timber-framed houses nestle among ivy-draped walls and cobbled alleys. At historic wine estates and cosy taverns, winemakers open their cellars for intimate tastings of Rheingau’s signature Riesling; dry, fruity or sparkling. Throughout the autumn season, many double vineyard strolls, and festive harvest gatherings, offering an intimate connection to the land and the generations who shape it.

The Rheingau Wine Festival is a celebration where culture, craftsmanship, and culinary artistry converge in the heart of Frankfurt. For locals, it is a chance to rediscover their city; for visitors, it unveils Frankfurt’s most enchanting character. Amid the city’s vibrant pulse, the festival presents a showcase of exquisite vintages from the sun-drenched Rheingau region. Each pour is a testament to the artistry of visionary winemakers, whose passion yields wines of extraordinary depth and distinction.

FROM BITES TO BEANS

CULINARY CAPITAL

Frankfurt’s culinary landscape is woven with global influences and local soul, evolving into a gastronomic destination where innovation meets tradition. A new wave of visionary chefs, natural wine bars, and stylish eateries has infused the city with an irresistible culinary rhythm. From the aromas of Indian spices to the delicate intricacies of Persian cuisine, the umami comfort of Japanese dishes, and the allure of the Mediterranean, each dining experience is a curated journey of finesse. Whether indulging in a leisurely lunch, a multi-course tasting menu, or sharing artisanal small plates over a glass of biodynamic wine, here, every table tells a story, and every bite reveals a new chapter of a culinary narrative.

URBAN BREWS

Frankfurt’s air is infused with the rich aroma of coffee, and the delicate tendrils of steam curling from a porcelain cup. With the first sip, its layered, bold, and balanced depth unfolds. Whether you’re drawn to avant-garde creations or timeless classics, coffee remains a daily indulgence.

At the forefront is Hoppenworth & Ploch, awarded Coffee Roaster of the Year in 2021. Their trio of elegant cafés set against the modernity of the university or the charm of the new Old Town showcases radiant roasts and meticulous brewing artistry. Equally iconic, Wacker’s Kaffee, established in 1914, enchants with time-honoured roasting methods, where every cup exudes a century of tradition.

Tucked beside the Commerzbank Tower, BUNCA blends Eritrean heritage with contemporary finesse, offering precision-crafted coffee crowned with latte art. Brühmarkt delights in Bockenheim with rotating espresso selections and curated brewing accessories. For lovers of Italian elegance, Gresso serves Milanese-roasted coffee with paninis and pastries in an ambience reminiscent of a stylish Roman espresso bar.

Classic charm finds its home in Café Laumer, with its Viennese flair and aromatic delights, while Café im Liebieghaus offers an intimate, art-infused retreat. In the reconstructed Old Town, Goldene Waage immerses guests in baroque beauty and serves a divine mini Frankfurt Kranz with rich coffee.

In vibrant neighbourhoods like Bornheim and Nordend, third-wave cafés such as Cosmic, drei kaffeebar, and Holy Cross Brewing Society, which is not in the neighbourhoods, more in the city center elevate coffee to an art form, pairing ethical sourcing with design-forward spaces and exquisite taste profiles.

In Frankfurt’s coffee roasteries and timeless cafés, discerning visitors can indulge in an exquisite sensorial journey of artisanal perfection.

BOUTIQUES AND BOULEVARDS

FRANKFURT AM MAIN: A SOPHISTICATED SHOPPING DESTINATION

Renowned as Europe’s financial powerhouse, Frankfurt am Main also exudes quiet glamour as a shopping heaven that personifies cosmopolitan elegance with curated charm. From fashion houses and prestigious global labels to artisanal boutiques and regional treasures, Frankfurt offers a shopping experience as diverse as the city itself.

THE ZEIL: FRANKFURT’S GRAND RETAIL PROMENADE

At the epicentre of Frankfurt’s retail allure is the Zeil, a dynamic boulevard often hailed as the city’s own ‘Fifth Avenue’. Here, grand department stores and fashion flagships line the street, while MyZeil shopping centre captivates with its avant-garde glass architecture by Massimiliano Fuksas. Inside, indulge in four levels of international fashion, fine beauty, and lifestyle boutiques, with a food court and a small rooftop terrace. A stone’s throw away, Skyline Plaza delivers a seamless blend of shopping, gastronomy, and wellness, complete with a spa and rooftop garden oasis overlooking the skyline.

GOETHESTRASSE: THE PINNACLE OF LUXURY

For those with extraordinary taste, Goethestraße is Frankfurt’s most exclusive address. Home to iconic maisons and haute couture, its chic storefronts and discreet concierge service create an atmosphere tailored to discerning global shoppers.

ARTISAN ELEGANCE IN FRANKFURT’S CREATIVE QUARTERS

Venture into neighbourhoods like Nordend, Bornheim, and Sachsenhausen to discover independent ateliers, vintage gems, and sustainable concept stores offering truly singular finds from handcrafted jewellery to design-forward home accents.

GOURMET MARKETS AND LOCAL TREASURES

Savour Frankfurt’s culinary luxury at the beloved Kleinmarkthalle, where epicurean delights await: aged cheeses, fine sausages, truffles, and artisan confections. Seasonal markets, including the famous Frankfurt Christmas Market, elevate the shopping experience with handcrafted elegance in a fairy-tale setting.

EXCLUSIVE PRIVILEGES FOR GLOBAL SHOPPERS

International visitors enjoy tax-free shopping, with seamless VAT refund services at Galeria and Frankfurt Airport, adding extra appeal to every luxurious purchase.

BERLIN

LIVING LEGACIES

MUSEUM ISLAND

Berlin’s iconic Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a cultural jewel showcasing over 6,000 years of artistic and historical treasures. Home to five grand museums: the Alte Museum, Neue Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, and the currently closed Pergamonmuseum, it offers a profound journey through time. In 2025, the island celebrates its magnificent 200th anniversary. Just steps away, the spectacular Berlin Cathedral, with roots reaching back to the 15th century, invites visitors to explore its rich spiritual legacy.

GENDARMENMARKT

Just moments from the elegant Friedrichstraße lies the Gendarmenmarkt, one of Berlin’s most exquisite squares. Thoughtfully and sustainably restored, this historic gem is framed by three cultural masterpieces: the stately Konzerthaus by Schinkel, the majestic German Cathedral, and the graceful French Cathedral. Together, they create a setting of timeless sophistication, inviting guests to indulge in worldclass concerts and curated exhibitions, ensuring an unforgettable experience at the heart of Berlin’s cultural and architectural grandeur.

SCHLOSS CHARLOTTENBURG

Positioned to the west of Berlin and easily accessible, the splendid Schloss Charlottenburg stands as a testament to royal elegance and timeless romance. Commissioned around 1700 by Prussian ruler Friedrich I for his beloved and revered queen, Sophie Charlotte, this baroque masterpiece is nestled within enchanting palace gardens along the banks of the River Spree. Wander through opulent Prussian Rococo halls and immerse yourself in the estate’s poetic charm, an exquisite escape into regal splendour, captivating in every season.

TV TOWER

Soaring to an impressive 368 metres, the Berlin TV Tower is the city’s tallest architectural icon and a symbol of modern elegance. Constructed in the 1960s, it offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama across Berlin’s dynamic skyline. Ideally situated near historic Alexanderplatz, the heart of former East Berlin, it stands alongside the striking World Clock, which displays time across 146 international cities. An unmissable experience blending history, innovation, and sophisticated urban charm.

capital’s grandeur. Crowned by the gilded Angel of Peace, this 67-metre-high masterpiece offers a breathtaking panorama over Schloss Bellevue, the lush parkland, and the city beyond. Originally built in the 19th century to commemorate Germany’s unification victories, it now stands as a timeless emblem of peace and unity in a refined urban landscape.

URBAN STREETS

AKAZIENSTRASSE

The Akazienkiez neighbourhood exudes effortless charm, offering a relaxed atmosphere for those who delight in strolls and exceptional cuisine. This stylish neighbourhood blends a creative spirit with timeless sophistication, showcasing curated concept stores, artisanal boutiques, and intimate cafés, bars, and restaurants. A favourite among discerning Berliners and visitors, it invites you to savour its unique character and discover the quiet allure of Berlin.

KURFÜRSTENDAMM

Kurfürstendamm, Berlin’s legendary boulevard, is the glamorous heart of City West, embodying history and high style in perfect harmony. Once the Elector’s grand hunting route to Grunewald, today the iconic Ku’damm is a sophisticated promenade for discerning shoppers and urban explorers. Stroll past elegant façades, indulge in exquisite cuisine at chic restaurants, and discover a curated mix of upscale boutiques, refined interior design galleries, and prestigious international fashion houses.

DEAR GOODS

At Dear Goods, luxury meets conscience through an unwavering commitment to people, animals, and the planet. Every piece is 100% vegan, ethically crafted and made exclusively from eco-friendly, certified organic materials. With a refined focus on sustainability, animal welfare, and responsible sourcing, it is a thoughtful alternative for those who value sophisticated style and principled living.

FLAVOURS OF DISTINCTION

LIMONADIER

Limonadier is a renowned cocktail bar known for expertly crafted drinks using premium spirits and fresh ingredients. A diverse menu, welcoming staff, and a stylish, laid-back ambience create the perfect setting for an enjoyable evening.

KONNOPKE

This sausage stand, family-run since 1930, is known for inventing a secret ketchup recipe post-Wall; it became the first to serve currywurst in East Berlin. Today, it still draws crowds with its legendary, possibly unrivalled, rendition of this beloved classic.

LOVIS RESTAURANT

Once a women’s prison in Charlottenburg, this intimate venue now hosts an avant-garde dining experience. Bold, minimalist house cocktails set the tone for a vegetarian-forward menu that reinterprets classic German flavours. Each sensorial, umamirich meal is interspersed with imaginative palate cleansers.

ZIG ZAG JAZZ CLUB

Zig Zag Jazz Club offers top-tier live music every night. With a cosy, intimate ambience and electrifying performances, it draws jazz aficionados and curious newcomers.

BUSINESS TRAVELLER INDIA

Recommends

Germany rede nes elite escapes with historic hotels and modern indulgences

FRANKFURT

Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof

In Frankfurt’s historic city centre and its vibrant financial district, the Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof has welcomed distinguished guests since 1876. A landmark of timeless elegance, this grand hotel places you just steps away from the Römer, Paulskirche, the iconic Main Tower, and the Central Station. Inside, 267 exquisitely appointed rooms and 36 opulent suites offer refined comfort, bespoke amenities, and impeccable service. An array of eclectic dining venues, including the sophisticated Autorenbar, the elegant Oscar’s, the contemporary Zukaya, and the serene Ehrenhof Terrace, promise culinary excellence, blending regional flavours with international flair. The expansive 1,000sqm sanctuary of wellness is dedicated to indulgence and restoration. For events of distinction, the hotel boasts magnificent venues: from intimate salons to grand ballrooms, each curated by an expert in-house team. At every turn, the Frankfurter Hof delivers a seamless blend of heritage, luxury, and modern sophistication.

Hilton Frankfurt City Centre

Internationality, cosmopolitanism, and an urban city feeling are what the Hilton Frankfurt City Center has been known for over 25 years. The special Hilton feeling is evident as soon as you enter the lobby: You are greeted by a nearly 50-metre-high, light-filled atrium, which transforms the hotel entrance into a spacious welcome area and offers a view upwards of 12 bustling hotel floors. Architecturally integrated into the building complex is the historic ‘Stadtbad Mitte’ half-Olympic-size swimming pool, dating back to the 1960s, a landmark for Frankfurt. The hotel underwent a full makeover in recent years, with rooms, suites, dining options, and event spaces being comprehensively modernised. Since opening the hotel in 1998, they have hosted over half a million event guests in addition to overnight guests, and offer numerous event options for up to 580 participants across two event

The lobby is home to the Hilton’s signature dining and drinking venue: Hudson Yards Bar, Lounge & Dining, with its Art Deco elements and selection of food and drinks, draws inspiration from the American metropolis of New York City. It is here where hotel guests and Frankfurt residents meet at the bar or in the cosy seating lounges for lunch, dinner, or simply an original Cosmopolitan.

The Frankfurt Airport Marriott Hotel and Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel & Conference Center form the world’s first dual-branded concept under one prestigious roof. With a position adjacent to Terminal 1, the property boasts seamless access via a pedestrian bridge, offering discerning travellers unrivalled convenience. Together, the hotels feature 1,017 elegantly appointed rooms and suites: 784 within the Sheraton and 233 in the Marriott, each delivering a distinct luxury experience. Exclusive executive lounges enhance the brand identity of each hotel. Gastronomic excellence awaits at two refined restaurants, two sophisticated bars, and a stylish central lobby kitchen and bar, most of which were newly designed or renovated. The expansive Conference Centre spans three levels with 58 modern meeting rooms and generous breakout lounges. A 400sqm fitness and wellness area, saunas, steam bath at the Day Spa Sky Lounge complete this world-class hospitality offering.

Frankfurt Airport Marriott Hotel | Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel & Conference Center

The Florentin (opening soon)

Opening in autumn 2025 as part of the esteemed Althoff Collection, The Florentin emerges as a reimagined icon in the heart of Frankfurt. This distinguished retreat blends elegance with contemporary grandeur, offering 98 deluxe rooms and 49 bespoke suites, each a haven of tranquillity and design. The Signature Suites within the historic villa are curated masterpieces, each uniquely envisioned to transport guests into a world of elevated sophistication. Encircling a lush central garden, The Florentin is more than a hotel; it is an immersive experience. From unforgettable weddings to bespoke business events, every occasion finds its perfect setting here. Culinary excellence awaits at The Garden, an all-day restaurant nestled amid greenery, and the Destination Restaurant, where seasonal artistry delights the senses. End the evening with handcrafted cocktails in the elegant bar. Rejuvenation continues at the serene spa sanctuary, featuring saunas, a tranquil pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre designed for complete wellbeing.

Kimpton Main Frankfurt

Kimpton Main Frankfurt is a sanctuary of contemporary sophistication in the vibrant heart of the city. Nestled within the prestigious FOUR Frankfurt quarter, this five-star haven personifies cultural vibrancy. Discover effortless access to gourmet dining, rooftop panoramas, dynamic nightlife, and the rhythm of local life. Each design-led guest room is a refined retreat, where Bauhaus-inspired details, sumptuous bedding, and curated amenities offer serenity amidst the urban energy. Indulge in culinary artistry and handcrafted cocktails in strikingly styled venues, framed by breathtaking skyline views. Whether energising in the state-ofthe-art fitness centre or unwinding with impeccable in-room service, every detail is crafted to delight. Tailored for discerning tastemakers and urban explorers, Kimpton Main is a social haven where creativity thrives and community flourishes. Here, timeless tradition dances with bold modernity, inviting you to experience Frankfurt in its most inspired and luxurious form.

Taj Hotel Hessischer Hof (opening soon)

Reopening in 2025 after an exquisite transformation, Taj Hotel Hessischer Hof returns as a majestic landmark in Frankfurt’s heart, joining the legendary portfolio of Taj Hotels worldwide. Originally built in 1952 on the site of a princely city palace, this storied icon, once the private residence of the House of Hesse, marries regal heritage with contemporary splendour. The 134 elegantly reimagined rooms and suites are designed to reflect majestic grandeur while embracing refined modernity. Ideally situated near Frankfurt’s premier trade fair grounds, the hotel is perfectly positioned for both business and leisure. Guests can savour the arrival of the famed Bombay Brasserie, bringing its celebrated Indian culinary artistry to Germany for the first time. The Chambers, India’s most exclusive business club, finds a new European home here. From indulgent moments in the serene spa and winter garden to refined evenings at the legendary Jimmy’s Bar, every element evokes the timeless beauty of a truly world-class retreat.

BERLIN

JW Marriott Hotel Berlin

In the prestigious Tiergarten district, JW Marriott Hotel Berlin is an undisputed sanctuary of elegance, offering an exquisite escape. With 505 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each showcasing captivating views and sophisticated modern design, guests are invited to unwind in serene, mindful luxury. Embark on a delectable culinary journey unlike any other where indulgence meets intention. The hotel’s innovative dining experiences celebrate a contemporary approach to gastronomy, tailored to delight every palate. Elevate your sense of well-being with exclusive access to a serene wellness oasis, featuring a shimmering indoor pool, sauna, steam bath, and state-ofthe-art fitness centre. For unforgettable gatherings, the hotel boasts 19 versatile event spaces spanning over 5,500 sqm, perfect for intimate soirées to grand galas or world-class conferences. With impeccable service and a dedicated team of event professionals, JW Marriott Hotel Berlin transforms every moment into a masterpiece.

The Ritz-

Carlton, Berlin

Ideally positioned at the iconic Potsdamer Platz and just moments from the Brandenburg Gate, The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin offers an exceptional blend of modern sophistication and timeless grandeur. This five-star sanctuary redefines elegance, with 303 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites that echo Berlin’s Art Deco heritage, adorned with bespoke furnishings and contemporary flourishes. Guests are invited to indulge in an extraordinary culinary journey from artisanal cocktails to refined German cuisine and the legendary tradition of Afternoon Tea. Relaxation is reimagined at the serene spa or within the state-of-the-art fitness centre, offering a holistic approach to wellness. For the most discerning hosts, the hotel presents Berlin’s largest luxury ballroom alongside intimate salons and sophisticated foyers, all enhanced with cutting-edge audiovisual technology. Whether planning a bespoke wedding, an exclusive board meeting, or a lavish gala, every detail is meticulously curated by a team of seasoned professionals, ensuring a flawless experience.

Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt

Perfectly positioned beside Berlin’s main station, with sweeping views of the Federal Chancellery and the tranquil River Spree, Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt is a refined urban retreat that blends elegance with contemporary comfort. The hotel features 339 impeccably designed, soundproofed rooms, including 24 opulent suites, offering a serene sanctuary in the heart of the city. Elevate your senses at the Skylounge, a haven of calm where indulgent full-body massages, revitalising facials, and bespoke personal training sessions await. Begin the day with an abundant gourmet breakfast, savour exquisite culinary creations, or unwind with a handcrafted cocktail in the sophisticated bar. For distinguished gatherings, the hotel presents an exceptional event venue spanning 2,400 sqm, including a unique ground-floor space and ten versatile meeting rooms accommodating up to 480 guests. Every moment is thoughtfully curated, making this the ideal address for luxurious stays and memorable events.

Grand Hyatt Berlin

Where vibrant city life meets serene sophistication, Grand Hyatt Berlin offers an indulgent retreat in the heart of the capital. The hotel features 321 refined guestrooms and 21 lavish suites, each adorned with contemporary art and offering sweeping views of Tiergarten, the Berlin Philharmonic, or Marlene-DietrichPlatz. Marble and cherry wood bathrooms, paired with Balmain amenities, create an atmosphere of modern elegance. Guests embark on a cosmopolitan culinary journey that reflects Berlin’s dynamic spirit. Renowned as one of the city’s premier event destinations, the hotel boasts nine architecturally striking venues with natural daylight, original artworks, and personalised planning for gatherings of up to 850 guests. For weddings, the hotel’s bold design and bespoke service offer an unforgettable setting. At Club Olympus Spa & Fitness, relaxation reaches new heights with panoramic rooftop views, an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, and holistic wellness rituals inspired by the Far East, designed to awaken both body and soul.

tays

In today’s fast-moving world, business travel demands more than just a place to stay; it calls for sanctuaries that combine productivity with genuine comfort. These luxury hotels raise the bar with attentive service, carefully chosen amenities, and thoughtfully designed spaces where work and downtime coexist effortlessly. From private lounges to suites, these hotels anticipate every need of the discerning traveller. With exclusive access, personalised attention, and spaces that fuel both focus and relaxation, they transform business trips into experiences that are as efficient as they are indulgent. Whether it’s sweeping city views from a balcony or tailored dining crafted to suit your schedule, every detail is designed to elevate your journey.

Curated accommodations for sophisticated travellers across India’s dynamic urban hubs

MUMBAI

ITC GRAND CENTRAL, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, MUMBAI

A Luxury Collection Hotel offers premium stays through Executive Club privileges, crafted for efficiency without compromising luxury. The Executive Club Room delivers comfort with a dedicated butler service and express check-in. Guests also gain access to the exclusive Point of View rooftop lounge featuring a 360-degree city panorama and bespoke ‘Luxury Hours’ hors d’oeuvres and drinks.

The Towers rooms, set on upper floors, offer refined interiors and identical Club benefits, elevating both the stay and view. For expansive living, the Presidential and Catherine de Braganza Suites provide multi-room layouts, private studies, and full Club Lounge access, ensuring privacy and polish in equal measure. Whether closing a deal or unwinding after crossing time zones, ITC Grand Central delivers service that anticipates, amenities that support, and a lounge that rewards, blending discretion with distinction in a city that never slows.

JW MARRIOTT MUMBAI JUHU

Overlooking the Arabian Sea, JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu offers a seamless blend of coastal serenity and business-ready efficiency through its Executive Level accommodations. The Executive Ocean View Room pairs sweeping sea vistas with a plush king bed, ergonomic workspace, and exclusive Executive Lounge access. Benefits include complimentary breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres, two-way airport transfers, and premium bath amenities. Elevating the stay, the Executive Suites add a spacious, separate living room, ideal for private meetings or unwinding after a long day, while retaining full Executive Lounge privileges. At the top tier, the Presidential Suite delivers unmatched scale and privacy with multiple bedrooms, expansive entertaining areas, and dedicated butler service, ensuring both work and relaxation are conducted in uncompromised style. All executive-level experiences at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu are designed to maximise productivity while keeping every detail polished to perfection.

SOFITEL MUMBAI BKC

Sofitel Mumbai BKC combines French elegance with Indian warmth in its Club Millésime accommodations. The Club Millésime Room offers a refined space with exclusive access to the top-floor Club Millésime Lounge, private check-in, check-out, and curated daily presentations. Club Millesime Twin Room offers the same amenities and is ideal for colleagues travelling together. Stepping up, the Imperial Suite with separate master & guest bedrooms, and the Presidential suite access offer separate living rooms and enhanced workspace for meetings or calls. All Club Millésime stays include a one-hour meeting room use, 20% off dining, express laundry, and premium bath amenities. Whether closing a deal or unwinding after the day’s agenda, every detail is designed to keep business travel comfortable and distinctly elevated.

JW MARRIOTT MUMBAI SAHAR

At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, sophistication meets seamless functionality, catering flawlessly to the discerning business traveller. The elegantly appointed Executive Room offers exclusive access to the prestigious twostorey Executive Lounge, a tranquil sanctuary where curated dining and attentive service elevate every moment. Elite members enjoy complimentary access to three state-of-theart meeting rooms for two hours, ideal for impromptu strategy sessions. For those desiring extra space, the Executive Suites provide a harmonious blend of privacy and productivity, featuring a spacious living area and separate bedroom. Throughout the property, impeccable hospitality, high-speed wifi, and modern amenities create an atmosphere of effortless efficiency. Whether finalising global deals or unwinding after a long flight, every detail is designed to anticipate your needs, ensuring your stay is both luxurious and purposeful.

BENGALURU

SHANGRI LA BENGALURU

At Shangri-La Bengaluru, the Horizon Club elevates a stay into a private world of skyline views and tailored privileges. The Horizon Club Bangalore View Room frames the Garden City through floor-to-ceiling windows, its marble bathroom and deep-soaking tub offering a serene counterpoint to the day. Guests enjoy Horizon Club Lounge access, with daily breakfast at b Café, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails, all complemented by personalised concierge service. The Horizon Panorama View Room expands both space and perspective, with sweeping vistas, a marble bathroom, and a walk-in rainfall shower. Thoughtful touches, from 300-threadcount Frette linens and a pillow menu to premium Kama Ayurveda amenities, all create quiet moments of reverie. From private check-in to last-minute pressing, the Horizon Club ensures every detail is handled, leaving you free to enjoy the city, the view, and the calm in between.

RENAISSANCE BENGALURU RACE COURSE HOTEL

In a city that moves fast, Renaissance Bengaluru offers a space designed for those who prefer to set their own pace. The Premium Twin Room blends business utility with understated luxury, twin beds, a deep-soak tub with jet sprays, and a private sitting area that feels worlds away from the day’s demands. The Pavilion Suite opens onto a private terrace, perfect for early calls over coffee or a moment’s pause as the skyline glows. The Ren Suite refines privacy, with its living area discreetly separated from the bedroom, ideal for hosting or unwinding in equal measure. Guests in these select categories enjoy Executive Lounge access, complete with daily buffet breakfast, afternoon tea, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and complimentary nonalcoholic beverages. A rhythm of comfort and refinement, attuned to the modern traveller who expects their downtime to flow as seamlessly as their work day.

JW MARRIOTT HOTEL BENGALURU

Some addresses are landmarks; others are experiences that unfold like a well-composed evening. JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru is both. The Executive Lounge Access Twin Room balances function and finesse, pairing ample space with the ease of complimentary afternoon tea, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and all-day non-alcoholic refreshments, ideal for colleagues or friends travelling together. The Executive Lounge Access King Room lifts your experience further, placing you on a private access floor with a balcony to greet the morning, with the added refinement of a complimentary pressing service. For those who like their days to move seamlessly between business and leisure, the Executive Suite offers a separate living room for private meetings or unhurried evenings, with space for up to four guests. Wherever you stay, the Executive Lounge is your quiet constant, a private oasis to step away from the city’s rhythm and let each pause feel considered.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BENGALURU AT EMBASSY ONE

At Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru, select rooms offer more than a stay; they set the tone. The Club Room pairs pool views with a workspace and a daily rhythm of breakfast at CUR8 or inroom, afternoon tea on the terrace, and evening drinks at The Collection. In the Cityscape Suite, sweeping skyline views frame distinct living and sleeping spaces, ideal for balancing work and private downtime. The Imperial Suite expands into a private balcony, elegant dining for eight, and a generous room to host or retreat, while the Presidential Suite crowns the experience with a study, a private gym, and the ease of a personal attendant. Across all, privileges include express check-in, one-way airport transfer, pressing services, and availability of the boardroom, like thoughtful touches that align perfectly with the pace of business and the pleasures of pause.

DELHI

GURUGRAM HOTEL & RESIDENCES

The Leela Ambience Gurugram blends luxury, and convenience into its Royal Club experience, across select rooms and suites. The Royal Club Room features elegant king-sized accommodations with exclusive access to the Royal Club Lounge. Guests can enjoy 24-hour in-room dining, airport transfers in luxury cars, express laundry, and premium Tishya bath amenities. Stepping up, the Executive Suite adds refined interiors, curated artworks, a separate living area with the same dining and Royal Club Lounge access. For panoramic urban views, the Panorama Suite unfolds into expansive living and sleeping spaces. The Presidential Suite is a multi-room haven with a private study, dining room, massage parlour, butler service, Club Lounge and more benefits. All Royal Club stays are elevated with Leela’s signature service and premium bath amenities, making every moment both productive and indulgent.

TAJ PALACE NEW DELHI

For the business traveller who values both discretion and distinction, Taj Club at Taj Palace New Delhi offers unrivalled privileges spread across various rooms and suites. The Taj Club Room includes exclusive access to the Club Lounge for dining and cocktails, and boardroom use. It also features priority check-in and checkout, as well as express butler service. Levelling up, the Taj Club Executive Suite adds a separate living area, walk-in wardrobe, dedicated work zone, and extended lounge benefits. For unmatched privacy and scale, Grand Luxury Suites offer multiple bedrooms, drawing and dining rooms, and a generous business-ready layout. All stays are enhanced with Forest Essentials bathroom amenities, ensuring every refresh becomes a moment of ritual. Whether closing deals or debriefing after flights, these offerings ensure that time is optimised, comfort unwavering, and professionalism always evident.

SHANGRI-LA EROS NEW DELHI

In the heart of the capital, Shangri-La Eros New Delhi transforms business travel into an experience of ease and elegance. The Horizon Club Room is your private perch above the city, with floor-to-ceiling views, a bed designed for deep rest, and the coveted key to the Horizon Club Lounge, an elevated haven where quiet breakfasts, twilight cocktails, and seamless service make every interaction feel unhurried. For those who prefer more room to think and breathe, the Executive Suite offers a generous living area for discreet meetings or unwinding in style, alongside a marble bathroom that turns daily routines into quiet rituals. From your first perfectly brewed tea to the hush of the lounge after dusk, every detail is tuned to keep you at your sharpest, your calmest, and just a touch spoilt.

HILTON GURUGRAM BAANI CITY CENTRE

For the business traveller seeking seamless style and functionality, Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre offers upscale Club-level benefits across its Executive Rooms and Suites, enhanced by the brand’s understated luxury. The Executive Rooms, like the King Executive Room, deliver elevated comfort with city-view balconies, plush king beds, and access to the Executive Lounge, your quiet retreat for refined dining. Stepping up to the Premium Suites, like the King Premium Suite, guests enjoy separate living zones, refined touches, and the same Executive Lounge privileges, making it ideal for both work and relaxation. All stays are supported by personalised service, modern tech perks like Digital Key, and seamless access to the hotel’s various amenities.

HYDERABAD

ITC KOHENUR, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, HYDERABAD

For those who see a hotel as more than a place to sleep, ITC Kohenur’s Club Lounge access rooms and suites deliver a rare balance of space, privacy, and tailored service. The Executive Club Exclusive pairs city views with a private balcony where unhurried mornings begin with a view and evenings unfold over oneplus-one happy hours in the Residents Lounge. The Towers offer a touch more space and quiet elegance, along with mobility-accessible rooms with tubs for added comfort, perfect for those who prefer their business trips with a side of serenity. The ITC One Exclusive offers a luxurious king bed and looks out over the lake from its balcony, with dedicated lounge access. The Deluxe Suite offers a generous living room, balcony, and the attentiveness of butler service, creating an environment where work, rest, and indulgence meet seamlessly.

TAJ KRISHNA, HYDERABAD

For the business traveller, time and comfort are the ultimate currency, and the Taj Club spends both generously. The Taj Club King Bed Room pairs its dedicated study with lounge access, evening cocktails, daily continental breakfast, and the freedom of early check-in and late check-out, perfect for maximising every hour in the city. The Taj Club Premium Twin Bed Room offers the same privileges, with twin beds ideal for colleagues sharing the journey. The Grand Luxury Terrace Suite is a world unto itself: a private study for closed-door strategy, a dining room ideal for hosting, a 24-hour butler to anticipate your needs, 24-hour in-room dining to keep you fueled, and daily evening cocktails at the Taj Club Lounge. Across all, Forest Essentials bath amenities turn your shower into a ritual, while efficient, intuitive service ensures that every need is met before you even have to ask.

LE MERIDIEN HYDERABAD

In the heart of Hyderabad’s business district, Le Meridien turns a work trip into something far more rewarding. The Club Guest Room wraps you in quiet sophistication, with a king bed to sink into after a long day, and the key to the Club Lounge, a discreet retreat where conversations flow as easily as the evening service, all with the assurance of attentive butler care. For travellers who measure comfort in square footage, the Executive Suite offers 624 sq ft of well-planned space, a separate living room for hosting or working in privacy, and two bathrooms for unhurried mornings. Connecting rooms keep colleagues or family close without compromising personal space. From the aroma of your first coffee to the lingering quiet of the lounge at day’s end, every moment is orchestrated to keep you at your most productive, your most relaxed, and ever so gently indulged.

THE WESTIN HYDERABAD MINDSPACE

Some stays simply meet expectations, while others feel as though they were composed for you, The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace is firmly in the latter. In the Executive Club Room Twin Bed, lounge access and considered touches create a base that works as well for business as it does for unwinding. The Executive Club Terrace Room King Bed takes the experience outdoors, where the balcony offers a front-row seat to the city’s slow awakening. The Executive Suite Twin Bed expands your domain with a separate living room and twin bathrooms, lending space for both quiet reflection and easy hosting. For those who like their arrivals and departures to be as seamless as their stay, the Deluxe Suite offers a two-way airport transfer to its generous layout. And at the very pinnacle, the Presidential Suite unfolds across two bedrooms, a study, a dining area, and a sunlit balcony, that is perfect for unhurried mornings and lingering evenings.

WThe era of premium economy U

across global skies

elcome to the world of Premium Economy and discover a new echelon of travel where comfort, space, and sophistication converge. Designed for those who seek more than standard but aren’t bound by extravagance, this elevated space offers a retreat in the skies. Stretch out with generous legroom, recline into plush seating, indulge in curated cuisine and attentive service that transforms every mile into a pleasure. With priority boarding, an array of amenities, and enhanced entertainment at your fingertips, Premium Economy redefines value with luxury; it’s a more gracious, spacious, and rewarding way to fly.

CATHAY PACIFIC ›

In Cathay Pacific’s Premium Economy, every detail is thoughtfully curated to enhance the traveller’s comfort and well-being. Step aboard the Boeing 777-300ER fleet and immerse yourself in an elevated journey where generous seating, ambient lighting, and sleek, modern design come together to create a space of quiet luxury. Relax into a spacious, ergonomically designed seat, offering greater personal space and privacy. Enjoy a cinematic escape on a 15.6-inch 4K widescreen, complete with Bluetooth audio pairing for seamless entertainment. Indulge in exquisite in-flight dining, featuring Michelin-starred cuisine from Yat Tung Heen on select routes, along with Cantonese classics and global dishes. Wellness-inspired vegetarian options and beloved Hong Kong treats like warm egg tarts, freshly brewed coffee, and Betsy beer add a local touch. Discover a curated entertainment library including Disney+ Originals, Sports, Asian cinema, and Hollywood favourites, all at your fingertips. Arrive refreshed with an eco-conscious amenity kit, and enjoy seamless travel through dedicated checkin, priority boarding, and a generous baggage allowance, ensuring you carry more effortlessly.

VIRGIN

ATLANTIC

It’s the thoughtful luxuries that transform a journey into an experience. Begin with a sparkling glass of welcome wine, a prelude to the elevated service that awaits. Sink into a spacious leather seat, offering up to 38 inches of pitch, complete with a footrest for ultimate in-flight relaxation. For added exclusivity, preferred seats at the front of the Premium cabin are available for an additional charge.

Delight in gourmet dining, where elegant hot meals are presented on fine china with real cutlery and a stylish place setting. On select routes, enjoy the added privilege of preselecting your meal. Indulge later with treats like afternoon tea, or explore the Wander Wall of curated snacks available on select aircraft.

The journey is seamless with two 23kg checked bags, 10kg carry-on, and priority baggage delivery. Glide through the airport with dedicated check-in, fast-track security, and priority boarding. On night flights, enjoy a smartly designed amenity kit stocked with essentials, and stay entertained with 300+ hours of content, in-seat power, and onboard wifi from £2.99. Every detail has been designed to deliver sophistication, ease, and understated luxury in the skies.

QATAR AIRWAYS

Qatar Airways Comfort+, is z/a world where refined travel meets elevated comfort for an exclusive seating experience designed for discerning travellers who seek more, even in Economy. Nestled within a quieter cabin and arranged in a spacious 2-4-2 layout, Comfort+ offers you generous room to unwind, with a seat pitch of up to 41 inches, wider cushions, and an indulgent 8-inch recline paired with an adjustable leg rest, transforming your seat into a personal haven at 35,000 feet. Sink into the plush elegance of subtly contoured seats, crafted to cradle your body on long-haul journeys. A larger high-definition screen invites you to immerse yourself in an expansive world of award-winning entertainment, while the thoughtfully designed ambience enhances your sense of calm. Whether you’re escaping into a film, enjoying a peaceful nap, or simply savouring the journey, Comfort+ offers an elevated experience with the same world-class service, hospitality, and culinary offerings that define Qatar Airways, where excellence is not a class,

THAI AIRWAYS

Thai Airways proudly presents an enhanced travel experience aboard the A330-300: Premium Economy, thoughtfully designed for the contemporary traveller. This exclusive cabin blends sophistication, comfort, and value, offering a sanctuary in the skies. Immerse yourself in elegant surroundings, ambient mood lighting, and a spacious layout crafted for tranquillity.

Enjoy dedicated service by attentive cabin crew, and relax with plush seating, a personal pillow and blanket, and bespoke amenities, including eye masks and earplugs on request. Stay connected with THAI Sky Connect wifi (available on select aircraft) and unwind with a curated library of films, TV shows, and music. Indulge in a gourmet dining experience, where every dish is thoughtfully prepared to reflect THAI’s signature hospitality: refined, generous, and personal. Complimentary beverages and fine wines complete your journey. With Thai Airways Premium Economy, luxury is not an upgrade; it’s a given.

LUFTHANSA ›

Your journey begins with your legs gracefully extended, a drink in hand, and the hum of everyday life fading far behind. Welcome to Lufthansa Allegris Premium Economy Class, where elegance meets elevated comfort. Indulge in a travel experience redefined by generous space: a 99 cm (39-inch) seat pitch and an ergonomic leg rest offer relaxation from takeoff to landing. The seat’s sleek design, adorned with supple leather accents and a privacy shield, lets you recline effortlessly without disturbing others, making it your cocoon in the sky. Every detail is curated for your pleasure: a soft-glow reading lamp, a cocktail table built into the armrest, and the quiet luxury of thoughtful design. Lose yourself in award-winning cinema, captivating series, and curated playlists, all presented on a crystalclear 15.6-inch 4K screen. Whether you sway to jazz, relax with classical, or dive into an immersive audiobook, the premium noise-cancelling headphones elevate every note. With seamless device charging options, your world stays effortlessly connected above the clouds.

EMIRATES

Welcome to the reimagined Premium Economy cabin on Emirates, available on selected aircraft. Designed for discerning travellers, this refined space offers more room, elevated dining, and sophisticated surroundings. Settle into wider, cream leather seats with raised cushioned leg rests, adjustable headrests, and a deeper recline for tailored comfort. On the A380, Premium Economy seating is positioned at the front of the cabin for a swift disembarkation. On long-haul journeys, enjoy a complimentary sustainable amenity kit filled with in-flight essentials, a soft blanket and a large pillow adorned with the symbolic Ghaf tree motif. Savour a curated dining experience featuring local flavours from rotating regional menus. Dishes are elegantly served on Royal Doulton china with stainless steel cutlery wrapped in linen, presented on a polished woodgrain table with a side surface for your preferred beverage. Choose from an expanded drinks menu, including Chandon sparkling wine, premium vintages, fine liqueurs, and chocolates.

Stay entertained with a 13.3-inch HD screen, Bluetooth audio, and high-speed wifi available on selected routes, aircraft type, model and configuration, bringing an expansive array of movies, series, and music options to your fingertips.

SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Step into refined air travel aboard the A350, A380, or Boeing 777, where Premium Economy is reimagined. Recline into a generously proportioned seat, with a built-in calf rest and footrest. Thoughtfully designed seats offer dual USB ports, in-seat power, an adjustable reading light, and stowage for personal essentials. Dining is a sophisticated affair, with gourmet meals artfully presented on contemporary porcelain. Enjoy a curated menu paired with champagne and curated wines. Between courses, indulge in an array of premium snacks and beverages. Preview your menu up to eight days in advance or opt for the Book the Cook service, available 24 hours before departure. Luxuriate in bespoke amenities, soft slippers, blackout eyeshades, and eco-conscious lip balm in an elegant FSC-certified pouch. Stay entertained with over 1,800 hours of immersive content on a 13.3” HD touchscreen with noise-cancelling headphones. On select flights, enjoy internet access with text and multimedia messaging. With priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling, every moment of your journey is elevated to effortless luxury.

BRITISH AIRWAYS

World Traveller Plus, British Airways’ Premium Economy experience seamlessly marries comfort and thoughtful design. In a quieter, more exclusive cabin with fewer rows, you’ll enjoy an atmosphere of calm, extra space, and personalised service. Ease into wider seats with greater recline, lumbar support, foot and headrests, and ample legroom. A generous baggage allowance allows you to travel in style with a cabin bag, personal item, and up to two checked bags. A plush quilt and cushion add comfort, while a personal power supply keeps your devices charged throughout the journey. Thoughtfully curated amenity kits include a lip balm, eye mask, socks, toothbrush, toothpaste, and more.

Savour a glass of sparkling wine after takeoff, followed by a beautifully served three-course meal. Lose yourself in a world of entertainment with your screen, noise-cancelling headphones, high-speed wifi, free messaging (for Club members), and access to Paramount+. Priority boarding and optional Lounge Pass access enhance the journey further. For added ease, AirPortr offers home baggage collection for select routes, letting you travel baggage-free to the airport and head

SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIR LINES

Discover a new standard of travel with Swiss Premium Economy, where comfort meets sophistication on long-haul journeys. Designed for travellers who value individuality and well-being, this exclusive cabin offers start-to-finish indulgences. Relax into ergonomically designed hard-shell seats, which recline without disturbing others, and enjoy a generous sense of personal space. Begin your journey with a refreshing welcome drink, then savour curated gourmet meals served with Swiss hospitality. Immerse yourself in cinematic brilliance on a 15.6-inch HD screen, paired with high-quality noise-reducing headphones for an indulgent entertainment experience. Premium amenities include a sustainably crafted toiletry kit, a plush sleep mask, and earplugs, elevating comfort at every altitude. With seamless check-in options, double baggage allowance (2×23kg), and the exclusive Alpine Valley signature scent by Soeder, every detail is crafted. Miles & More members can unlock even greater privileges, ensuring each journey is as rewarding as it is relaxing.

DELTA AIRLINES

Redefine the way you travel with Delta Airlines’ elevated premium cabins, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to transform your journey into a luxurious escape. From the moment you check in, experience seamless luxury with Sky Priority® access, expedited check-in, dedicated security lanes, and priority boarding, inviting you to relax from the start.

Settle into spacious comfort with generous legroom, a memory-foam cushion, and a reclining seat that becomes your oasis in the sky. Refresh with a warm towel and a welcome beverage as you prepare to indulge in a gourmet menu, now available for pre-order, designed exclusively for Delta Premium Select. Savour elevated bites, artisanal snack baskets, and curated wine pairings, all delivered with intuitive service.

Unwind with a signature amenity kit by Someone Somewhere, featuring Grown Alchemist essentials. Wrap yourself in a plush blanket, put on noise-cancelling headphones, and drift into tranquillity with best-in-class entertainment on your personal 13.3-inch screen.

From take-off to touchdown, enjoy a journey where comfort, elegance, and thoughtful luxury come standard.

JAPAN AIRLINES

Experience the perfect balance of space, style, and service with Japan Airlines Premium Economy Class. The spacious JAL Sky Premium seat offers a generous 42-inch seat pitch, complete with a leg rest and footrest, allowing you to relax in comfort without compromising your personal space. Your premium in-flight experience includes a large personal screen, noise-cancelling headphones, USB and power outlets, priority check-in, dedicated counters, and complimentary lounge access. Thoughtful extras, such as amenity kits, slippers, and a moisture mask, ensure every detail is tailored to your comfort.

Savour expertly crafted meals by top chefs, featuring a choice of Japanese, international, and Indian cuisine, paired with a wide selection of complimentary beverages, including sake. Discover Japan Airlines Premium Economy, a class full of surprises, comfort, and care.

AIR INDIA

Indulge in a refined way to fly with India’s only Premium Economy, where elevated comfort meets exceptional value. Starting from just ₹599 above the Economy fare, enjoy a curated travel experience that brings sophistication and ease to over 37 domestic destinations, available on select flights.

From the moment you arrive, your journey is seamless with priority check-in, baggage handling, and boarding, giving you more time to unwind. Step into an exclusive, tranquil cabin where spacious premium seats offer generous legroom, deeper recline, and a 4-way adjustable headrest crafted for your perfect rest in the sky.

Savour gourmet hot meals inspired by regional and global cuisines, elegantly plated on bespoke tableware and paired with handpicked beverages. Elevate your in-flight moments with VISTA Stream, offering 1,000+ hours of immersive entertainment. On select routes, enjoy a 13.3” HD touchscreen, luxurious soft furnishings, and an award-winning amenity kit designed to refresh and restore.

This is more than a seat, it’s a thoughtfully curated escape in the clouds. Experience more, effortlessly.

Crafted for power

Where luxury meets the essence of distilled elegance

Luxury fragrance has evolved far beyond the final flourish before stepping out; it’s now a form of personal branding, a silent introduction that lingers in the mind long after the moment has passed. Today’s travel-ready scents cater to men whose lifestyles take them from boardrooms to black-tie galas, from first-class cabins to private retreats. These compositions are crafted with depth, longevity, and presence and designed to perform across time zones, climates, and occasions. More than accessories, they are signature expressions of status and sophistication. Selected by the discerning gentleman who knows that a truly exceptional fragrance doesn’t merely enhance an image, it embodies it.

Armani Privé Rose d’Arabie

OPULENCE IN A BOTTLE

Commanding and exotic, Rose d’Arabie from Armani Privé’s Middle Eastern-inspired Les Mille et Une Nuits collection is a power scent that lingers long after you’ve left the room. It is not simply worn, it arrives before you do and remains long after you’ve departed.

Opening with the opulence of Damascena rose, the fragrance reveals a deep, unabashed sensuality that feels almost tactile. A spicy saffron note follows, weaving heat and intrigue into the composition before giving way to a heart of patchouli and dark woods, grounding the rose in an earthy, masculine strength. Finally, it surrenders to voluptuous amber accords, creating a smouldering trail that is both magnetic and unmistakably regal. Rose d’Arabie is not for the discreet. It belongs to men who command rooms, sign deals over champagne, and understand the art of making an impression. Whether stepping into a black-tie gala, the hushed elegance of a luxury hotel lounge, or the polished intimacy of a private members’ club abroad, this fragrance asserts presence over pretence.

Its exceptional longevity and silage make it a fitting companion for long-haul flights, where it maintains its richness from departure to arrival. In colder climates and after-dark settings, its warm oriental notes bloom with an intensity that turns heads without trying. For the high-powered traveller, Rose d’Arabie is less about florals and more about status, seduction, and subtle dominance. It’s for those who travel first class, who value rarity over trend, and who leave behind not just a scent, but a sense of mystery and power in every destination they touch.

Tom Ford Tuscan Leather

FOR THE MAN WHO MOVES WITH INTENT Dark, seductive, and unmistakably assertive, Tom Ford’s Tuscan Leather evokes the tactile richness of fine leather, elevated by unexpected layers of spice, sweetness, and smoky depth.

From the first spray, a lavish blend of saffron and raspberry bursts forth, their opulent warmth intertwined with the herbal sharpness of thyme. This opening sets the stage for a fragrance that is as multifaceted as the man who wears it.

As it develops, Tuscan Leather reveals a sophisticated heart of incense and delicate floral notes, where jasmine and olibanum weave a subtle elegance into the composition. The smokiness of the incense plays beautifully against the smooth, supple leather accord, creating a tension that is both refined and primal. Anchoring the fragrance is a base of black suede and warm Amberwood, lending not only impressive longevity but also a lingering sense of depth. Each note unfolds with intention, ensuring the scent maintains its commanding presence from first impression to final dry down. Perfect for high-stakes evenings, exclusive lounges, or post-meeting dinners in cosmopolitan cities, Tuscan Leather commands attention without ever needing to raise its voice. It projects quiet authority, leaving behind a bold trail that lingers in the memory of those you encounter.

Ideal for the frequent flyer, the dealmaker, or the man whose wardrobe speaks in the language of power and polish, this is more than a fragrance; it’s an unspoken statement. Tuscan Leather isn’t simply worn; it’s experienced. It’s a quiet signature for men who never follow the crowd, choosing instead to define it.

Byredo Vanille Antique

VANILLA REIMAGINED FOR THE CONNOISSEUR

Vanilla isn’t just sweet in Vanille Antique, Byredo reimagines it as a smoky, sophisticated signature for the modern connoisseur. This extrait de parfum transforms a familiar comfort note into something deeper, darker, and infinitely more compelling. Opening with a delicate brush of freesia and the understated juiciness of plum, the scent teases with a subtle fruitiness before yielding to its richer heart. Amber and cashmere woods step forward, adding warmth, texture, and a quietly commanding presence. They wrap the skin like a cashmere scarf, soft yet confident, familiar yet refined. At the base, Madagascar vanilla beans meet cistus oil and musk, creating an almost leathery, smoked impression far removed from any gourmand cliché. The vanilla here is burnished and mature, softened by resinous undertones that linger like the last embers in a fireplace. This is vanilla with gravity: nuanced, grounded, and undeniably magnetic.

Vanille Antique finds its stride in cool weather and after-dark settings. It is an impeccable choice for black-tie evenings, winter business trips, or private dinners in alpine retreats where conversation flows easily and the air carries a faint chill. On the skin, it wears like velvet: elegant, composed, and subtly sensual without clamouring for attention.

Best suited for men who value subtlety over showmanship, it rewards proximity rather than projection. In its presence, sweetness becomes sophistication, and familiarity transforms into intrigue. This is not a scent you simply wear, it’s one you inhabit.

Kilian Angels’ Share Paradis

THE ESSENCE OF WORLDLY SOPHISTICATION

Sumptuous yet assured, Angels’ Share Paradis by Kilian is the haute expression of the maison’s acclaimed gourmand signature, reinterpreted as an extrait de parfum that distils indulgence into art. It does not merely accompany, it precedes you, enveloping the air with the opulent warmth of fine eaux-de-vie, leaving an impression that endures like the echo of an unforgettable evening. The top notes unfurl with the heady brightness of raspberry liqueur, spirited and bold, before yielding to the burnished sophistication of well-aged cognac. At its heart, velvet praline and Bulgarian rose Orpur weave a tapestry of discretion and allure, with no excess saccharine. The bottom notes, oakmoss and tonka bean, confer a smoky gravitas, equally at home in a sharply tailored dinner jacket or a cashmere sweater by the fire in Gstaad.

Angels’ Share Paradis is not crafted for the reticent. It is the preserve of men who negotiate acquisitions over vintage champagne, who traverse from alpine chalets to Mediterranean marinas with practised ease, and who recognise that true influence is measured, and not hurried. Its extrait concentration affords formidable tenacity, which retains its opulent complexity across time zones. In cooler latitudes and nocturnal hours, its gourmand-woody core radiates a magnetic sillage that commands notice without solicitation. For the peripatetic connoisseur, Angels’ Share Paradis transcends sweetness; it is stature, discernment, and the quiet dominion of a man whose departure leaves not merely a fragrance, but a legend.

Le Labo Thé Noir 29

A WHISPERED LEGACY

Shadowy yet refined, Le Labo Thé Noir 29 is a poetic exploration of contrasts, with freshness converging with depth, and restraint yields magnetism. It is an olfactory signature that precedes you, invoking the quiet power of black tea’s sombre ritual with every subtle whiff. The top notes reveal an elegant interplay of bergamot, fig, and bay leaf, crisp, verdant, and suave. Gradually, cedarwood, vetiver, and musk emerge, weaving a tapestry of muted strength. Its drydown, driven by a rare black tea extract, unveils nuances of dry hay and tobacco, evolving into a sensuous, addictive whisper that lingers long after your exit.

Thé Noir 29 is not for the ostentatious. It finds its audience in men who make decisions over single-malt neat, who move from secluded vineyards to jet-suite lounges with lived-in ease. In the dimmed intimacy of a cigar bar or the hushed corridors of a private jet, it lands like a masterstroke that is understated yet utterly intentional. Its measured composition offers quiet tenacity that proves to be unwavering across transcontinental hours. In the cool tones of early evening, its woody-tea heart unfolds with a magnetic restraint, drawing glances and a hint of pursuit.

Clive Christian Jump Up and Kiss Me Hedonistic

THE ULTIMATE APHRODISIAC

Jump Up and Kiss Me Hedonistic by Clive Christian is a smouldering amber-infused oriental masterpiece crafted for the man who embraces life’s indulgences with unapologetic passion. Featuring 203 of the world’s finest ingredients, this fragrance is a rich tapestry of gourmand, fruity, and addictive notes, like an olfactory elixir that ignites desire and lingers like a whispered promise. The top notes dazzle with a citrus medley of bergamot, grapefruit, and neroli, entwined with the herbal freshness of black cherry and clary sage, evoking sun-warmed paradises and secret escapes.

Mate Tea, revered as a divine gift and symbol of friendship, adds a nuanced bitterness that deepens the intrigue. At its heart, jasmine reigns supreme, layered with the velvety richness of orris and papyrus, infusing sensuality and depth. Dry, smoky tobacco emerges next, warm and complex, woven with sweet hints of maple, caramel, violet, and rose, balanced by whispers of whiskey. The base unfolds into an oriental woody symphony where opulent ambers, smoky leather, and resinous labdanum entwine with the creamy softness of tonka and vanilla that leave a trail that entices effortlessly.

Featuring warm captures

Powered by Clive Christian’s groundbreaking AddictiveFusion technology, this scent captures rare molecules through an exclusive alchemical process, creating an experience as unique as the man who wears it. Jump Up and Kiss Me Hedonistic is for the bon vivant who leaves behind not just a scent, but a legacy of decadent abandon and

creating and bon timeless allure.

TRANQ TEA &

UILLITY

Sri Lanka’s scenic tea trail experiences

AAs my train leaves Colombo’s humid heat and threads up past Kandy, clambering up through the rugged terrain, the air cools. Craggy hill slopes draped in tea plantations stretch out, and a light, cottony mist floats around, creating an ethereal dreamscape. The Colombo to Badulla rail journey has made it to Instagram more than any other, and there is a reason for it. It is the most picturesque way to witness the flourishing tea plantations of this country.

Sri Lanka is the world’s fourth largest tea producer, and ‘tea tourism’ is an increasingly popular activity. From mist-covered mountains where a hundred shades of green abound, to the beautiful southern beaches near Koggala at the Handunugoda Tea Estate, famed for its Virgin White tea; there is a swirling story unfolding at every sip. Your tea-soaked journey in Sri Lanka starts the moment you step on the emerald isle.

THE ORIGIN OF THE TEA TALE IN SRI LANKA

The story of Ceylon tea starts with an interesting fact. The epic washout and eventual decline of coffee plantations in the 1870s, due to a fungal disease called Hemileia vastatrix, or coffee rust, ultimately led to the experimental planting of cocoa and cinchona as alternative crops. These, too, didn’t work out, which eventually paved the way for the boom and bonanza of tea on the emerald isle. Quite interestingly, far out in Europe, another famous blight, caused by Phylloxera, was threatening the grape vines in France in a devastating epidemic which impacted vineyards across all of Europe. Tea in Sri Lanka started with a tiny sapling brought by the British from China and planted in the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya as a wild experiment. More saplings came in from Assam and Calcutta in India via the East India Company. In 1867, James Taylor ceremoniously started a tea plantation in the Loolecondera estate in Kandy at the young age of 17, paving the way for this flourishing industry and the veritable Sri Lankan tea culture.

The Colombo to Badulla rail journey has made it to Instagram more than any other, and there is a reason for it

AND REGIONS

There are three main tea-growing regions in Sri Lanka. The country's unique terroir (yes, this lends exactly to a repertoire of teas with distinct taste profiles as it does to wine) spans lowland coastal areas in the South to cool, misty highlands. Low-grown teas grown on an elevation between sea level to 600m, which enjoy abundant sunshine, warmth, and moisture, are malty, toasty and more robust. High-grown teas grown on an elevation of around 3,000 feet are cradled by chilly winds and dewy mist, which translates into lighter, grassier and more elegant teas.

HOW CLIMATE PLAYS ITS ROLE

Sri Lanka's location is tropical, and the monsoons impact the humidity and warmth in the atmosphere that, in turn, aid the flourishing of tea plantations, creating the perfect weather conditions.

Sri Lanka, bang in the middle of the Indian Ocean, is cradled by the two weather systems, known as the Northeast and Southwest monsoons. The first spans December through March, and the second between June and September.

Additionally, the complex topography results in varying microclimatic conditions up in the hills and mountains. An array of fine teas, which are unique to each microclimate in Sri Lanka,

Sri Lanka's location is tropical, and the monsoons impact the humidity and warmth in the atmosphere

has given it a unique sense of place, quite broadly making them terroir-driven. High-grown areas span Nuwara Eliya, Dimbula, Uva and Uda Pussallawa, picturesque Kandy in the mid country, and Ruhuna and Sambaragamuwa in the low country areas, whose taste and flavour profile is more robust and full-bodied.

I discovered six unforgettable tea experiences while journeying through the verdant hills of Sri Lanka. Each moment was steeped in rich aromas, sweeping views, and a deep sense of connection to the island’s centuries-old tea culture.

ALL ABOARD THE VICEROY

One of the most luxurious, retro journeys I have ever been on is on board The Viceroy Special, a vintage steam train offering a magnificent experience through greenery-draped hills laden

with tea estates. Replete with period fittings, a bar and smoking area, wifi, and four-course menus, The Viceroy takes one back in time, as it chugs along, offering an unparalleled journey. My favourite indulgence was going to the observation cabin, from where I could gaze out and soak in the breathtaking vistas.

PLUCK, DRY AND ROLL TEA LEAVES

While gliding through Sri Lanka’s lush tea country aboard a charming train offered a picturesque glimpse of the rolling estates, I yearned for a more immersive encounter, a hands-on experience in the delicate art of crafting the very tea leaves that grace our porcelain cups. To indulge this desire, I reserved an exclusive workshop at Amba Estate, a serene, organic haven nestled in the pristine Uva Highlands. The two-day experience offers a masterfully curated introduction to the artisanal craft of black tea production, guiding guests through the refined techniques of hand-plucking, delicate withering, and the elegant art of rolling tea leaves to perfection. We started by learning to pluck the ‘one leaf and a bud’, the first and most important step in making high-quality tea. Surrounded by 130 acres of mountains, waterfalls, caves, forests

and I felt one with the brigade of tea workers, whose hard work goes into the brewing of that perfect cup.

A RARE VIRGIN WHITE TEA EXPERIENCE BY THE SEA

Handunugoda Tea Estate is a 200-acre tea estate in Southern Sri Lanka, in Galle, within kissing distance of the sea. Home to the famous Virgin White Tea, which retails for over $1,500 per kg, there is a mystique of a legend that surrounds this ritualistic tea plucking, where pure virgins were supposed to daintily snip off the tea leaves with gold scissors. Today, the concept ‘virgin’ applies to the tea, not the tea pluckers, as only the choicest, young leaves are culled for this fine beverage.

A TEA-SOAKED WALK THROUGH HISTORY

DID YOU KNOW?

Prime tea-growing regions include Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Uva, Dimbula, and Ruhuna.

Tea is always tasted standing up.

One leisurely morning, I set out early, eager to immerse myself in the rich legacy of Ceylon’s tea heritage at the illustrious Ceylon Tea Museum. Housed within the restored Hanthana Tea Factory just three kilometres south of Kandy, the experience promised a memorable journey through the elegant history of one of the world’s finest teas. Spread across four

The tasting notes of Ceylon tea change as per the changing terrain.

The tea flavour is dependent on altitudethe higher it is grown, the more delicate the flavour and colour.

floors, the tour down the historical route of how tea arrived on the island through detailed audio visuals and viewing the British colonial machinery used for manufacturing tea, including rollers, dryers, generators, fermentation tables and sorting machines, was like time travel. The entire top floor is a tea café, where my visit ended, with a steaming cup and panoramic views of Kandy city surrounded by the beautiful Hunnasgiriya, Knuckles range & Mathale range of hills. A detailed tea tasting flight can be arranged by the café.

IMMERSING IN THE TEA HISTORY

Tea Trails, owned by the Fernando family of Dilmah fame, under the Resplendent Ceylon brand, is one of the finest stay experiences around the concept of tea. It is part of the circuit of the Resplendent Sri Lanka journey: tea (Tea Trails), sea (Cape Weligama) and safari (Wild Coast Tented Lodge). An experience I’ll always treasure was The Tea Experience, a guided walk through the lush tea plantations, followed by a guided tea flight and tasting, with The Afternoon Tea experience coming up as a close second. An indulgent affair with freshly baked scones and high-quality clotted cream, and an array of jams, it remains a moment etched in my mind.

HIKING THROUGH TEA COUNTRY

The Pekoe Trail is a 300km trekking trail divided into 22 stages. It takes one through the central hills of Sri Lanka, starting at Hanthana and winding through tea plantations and scenic slopes to Nuwara Eliya. There are many accommodation options throughout the Pekoe Trail, varying from chic hotels to homestays. The trail is for both seasoned hikers and amateurs looking to revel in some natural beauty. This unique tea trail can be hiked in sections, through the day or night, with halts, as a multi-day experience.

One of the most indulgent ways to enjoy tea is to partake of a luxurious afternoon tea experience, a true British tradition that never quite left the island’s luxe retreats. The Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya and Mount Lavinia Hotel near Colombo are a few stays where I’ve enjoyed the experience the most.

One of my most cherished memories from Sri Lanka’s tea country lingers in the simple, soulful pleasure of sipping a steaming cup of Ceylon tea, its warmth curling through the cool mountain air, while indulging in golden, flaky prawn puffs and delicately spiced fish cutlets. It’s a moment steeped in comfort and culture where the richness of local flavours meets the timeless elegance of tea, creating a sensory experience as unforgettable as the landscape itself.

RESTAURANT RESTAURANT

Phra Nakhon Sesame

putting business travel to the test

Park Hyatt Doha exudes timeless luxury, seamlessly fusing global sophistication with Qatari heritage in Msheireb Downtown’s prestigious, smart enclave

Park Hyatt Doha

Where personalised opulence transcends every expectation and bespoke elegance meets unmatched refinement

What’s it like

As Qatar’s first, Park Hyatt Doha is a masterful fusion of timeless global elegance and rich Qatari heritage. Perfectly positioned in the heart of Msheireb Downtown, this distinguished address offers a haven of refined sophistication, moments from the vibrant Souq Waqif. With bespoke accommodations, intuitive service, and immersive cultural experiences, every detail evokes understated luxury. Here, tradition meets contemporary grandeur, crafting a stay that is both authentically local and exquisitely world-class.

Rooms

The Park Hyatt Doha epitomises elegance with 187 exquisitely appointed guestrooms, including

28 indulgent Park suites and three sophisticated Park Executive Suites. A stately Diplomat Suite, and the pinnacle of luxury, the Presidential Suite boast exclusive access to a private terrace, offering breathtaking panoramas of the Doha skyline or Corniche. Each room and suite boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, bespoke window lounges, and lavish marbleclad bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, cascading rain showers, and dual vanities. During my stay, I luxuriated in the expansive 90sqm Park Suite, adorned with plush furnishings, a king bed, elegant living, dining areas, and upscale Le Labo amenities in the opulent bathroom.

journey where each dining experience is a celebration of global gastronomy. Savour the captivating views of Doha’s glittering skyline and the tranquil Corniche while exploring an eclectic selection of Japanese, Qatari, and international cuisines, crafted with precision and flair. I began my day at Opus, where the open kitchen brought to life a vibrant fusion of French and Qatari culinary artistry. I began my day indulging in a wholesome breakfast featuring yoghurt, fried eggs, freshly sliced fruits, and a perfectly brewed cappuccino, which delighted both the palate and soul.

VERDICT

A beacon of luxury in the heart of Msheireb Downtown, Park Hyatt Doha is an exceptional blend of modern elegance, Qatari heritage, and world-class service.

BEST FOR Expansive and luxurious rooms and suites.

DON’T MISS

This sanctuary of sophistication in Doha’s vibrant city center.

PRICE

Approximately QAR 444 onwards

CONTACT

Sikkat Wadi Msheireb Street, Doha, Qatar +974 4009 1234

doha.park@hyatt.com Sora Rooftop offers breathtaking outdoor dining, perfect for

cocktails

in the golden glow of the Arabian sun.

Facilities Awaken your senses with a delectable culinary

For an evening of sophistication, the stunning Sora Rooftop is where views and flair set

the scene for unforgettable moments. Alternatively, Anis, the stylish all-day eatery, offers a relaxed ambience perfect for leisurely indulgences. Whether hosting a grand wedding or an exclusive corporate affair, Park Hyatt Doha’s event spaces are the epitome of grandeur. Choose from the intimate elegance of a 35sqm private lounge or the grandeur of a 297sqm pillarless ballroom. Immerse yourself in serenity at the hotel’s luxurious two-floor spa sanctuary. Separate male and female spaces feature mood-enhancing treatments, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, and invigorating ice experiences. State-of-the-art fitness centres, complete with panoramic views, redefine wellness at every level.

Phra Nakhon at BangkokCapella

A beautifully reinterpreted culinary homage to Thai heritage in every bite

What it’s like

Bathed in golden sunlight and embraced by verdant gardens along the tranquil riverbank, Phra Nakhon is a serene conservatory that invites you to rediscover the soul of Thai cuisine in the heart of Bangkok. Evoking the warmth of a refined home kitchen, this culinary jewel pays homage to cherished traditions passed down through generations. Each dish is a thoughtful tribute to Thailand’s rich culinary heritage and is crafted with indigenous ingredients sourced from devoted farmers and fishermen. At Phra Nakhon, every bite tells a story of authenticity, artistry, and the abundance of the land served in a setting where nature, culture, and flavour come together in harmonious celebration.

Food

& Drink

My dinner began with a symphony of flavours that awakened the senses. The Pomelo Salad was a vibrant

start of ruby-hued pomelo pearls bursting with citrus sweetness, delicately dressed in a tangy tamarind sauce and a gentle heat from finely chopped chillies. Crispy shards of deep-fried seabass added a delightful crunch, with the fragrant betel leaves offered a refreshing appetiser.

Next came the Grilled River Prawn, perfectly charred to bring out its natural sweetness. Its succulent flesh peeled effortlessly, enhanced only by a touch of lime. The Green Mango Salad followed with crisp, tart ribbons of mango tossed with spicy chilli and a bold seafood sauce that left a lingering zing on the palate.

For the main course, the Steamed John Snapper arrived glistening and tender, delicately resting atop cabbage. The seafood sauce drizzled over added a vibrant layer of umami and freshness, perfectly complementing the clean, oceanic taste of the fish.

To close, a scoop of creamy coconut ice cream offered cool tropical indulgence, its velvety texture and subtle sweetness the ideal finale.

A chilled crisp, clean, Thai beer, just bitter enough, paired beautifully with each course, to balance the bold flavours of the evening.

Charoenkrung, Bangkok’s oldest paved road, with artisan cafés, stylish bars, and contemporary art galleries, creates a vibrant district reflecting an old-world, yet contemporary charm.

VERDICT

At Phra Nakhon, each dish is meticulously prepared and every bite is steeped in tradition. Coupled with warm hospitality and a picturesque setting, it’s a culinary experience that is both soulful and sophisticated.

PRICE

Approximately upwards of THB 3,410 per person

CONTACT

300/2 Charoenkrung Road, Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Thailand +662 098 3817 or +66 65 998 4690 capellahotels.com

Service

Service at Phra Nakhon is an artful blend of warmth, grace, and attentiveness. Every interaction reflects Capella Bangkok’s signature hospitality.

Sesame at Hyatt Centric Juhu Mumbai

A contemporary restaurant transforming the dining experience into an immersive ‘Theatre of Flavours’

What it’s like

At Hyatt Centric Juhu Mumbai, dining becomes a luxurious journey where tradition meets modernity in every artfully crafted bite. The expert culinary team curates menus that elegantly fuse timeless Indian flavours with contemporary sophistication, offering indulgent breakfasts, lavish buffets, and refined takeaway options. Each dish is a sensorial experience that is meticulously prepared, visually stunning, and deeply flavourful. At the heart of this experience is Sesame, a chic culinary destination where Japanese and Pan-Asian cuisines are reimagined with bold creativity. The open kitchen adds theatrical flair, while avant-garde mixology and dramatic presentations elevate every moment. With its ever-evolving charm, stylish ambience, and harmonious blend of authenticity and innovation, Sesame offers an unforgettable celebration of taste, culture, and connection.

Food & Drink

At this gastronomic haven, led by a skilled culinary team, the chefs play the roles of actors, and food takes centre stage.

I enjoyed a delicious lunch at Sesame, where each course was a symphony of refined Asian flavours and exquisite presentation. The afternoon began with a parade of artful appetisers: the Watermelon Tataki was a refreshing surprise, delicately paired with truffle ponzu, ponzu jelly, and crisp green apple. The Salmon Tataki, laced with Tobanjan and shirae, followed with elegant depth. The Salmon Carpaccio elevated simplicity, layered with truffle ponzu, kizami wasabi salsa, and wakame. The Beijing-Style Tiger Prawns, infused with jasmine oil, Sichuan pepper, and chilli, offered a bold, fiery sophistication. Rich and tender, the Hickory-Smoked Duck with truffle passionfruit coulis, garlic panko, and a touch of chilli oil, was exquisite. Next came the Dragon Sushi Roll, a masterpiece of seared salmon, spicy mayo, tobiko, and tempura shrimp, finished with dragon flares.

For the main course, aromatic Jasmine Rice with Krapow Chicken and fresh basil delivered a hearty,

Sesame offers a masterfully curated experience and is a true gem in Mumbai’s culinary landscape. VERDICT

PRICE

Approximately upwards of INR 2500 per person

CONTACT

Hyatt Centric Juhu, Juhu Tara Rd, Santacruz (West), Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049, India +918657884964 hyatt.com

comforting flavour. Dessert was decadent: a luscious 70% Dark Chocolate Namelaka, served with vibrant fresh berries and a refreshing Jamun Sorbet, was a perfect finale to a memorable culinary journey.

Service

Impeccably polished, graceful, attentive, and intuitive, every detail was flawlessly executed in creating a seamless, personalised dining experience that embodied sophistication and elegance.

Chennai Rising: tracking the city’s transformation from 2017 to 2025

Khursheed Mistry portrays Chennai’s evolution from 2017 to 2025. A city where timeless heritage meets modern ambition, crafting a legacy that is economically resilient, culturally vibrant, and seamlessly aligned with the global stage.

hennai’s journey from 2017 to 2025 isn’t just about construction and commerce; it’s the story of a city lifting its infrastructure, economy, and social fabric while preserving the cultural heartbeat that makes it uniquely Chennai.

CFrom 2017 to 2025, Chennai has undergone a remarkable transformation, seamlessly blending its cultural roots with modern dynamism. The city’s economy has surged, evolving into a magnet for global enterprises, particularly technology giants, shared services hubs, and automotive innovators, thanks to a rich talent pool cultivated by top-tier engineering and technical institutions. Multinational firms have flocked here, drawn by a pro-business environment and the presence of global in-house centres across industries like finance, IT, automobiles, and life sciences.

Infrastructurally, Chennai has embraced a visionary leap. Transport networks have expanded with a sprawling metro network under construction, intelligent public transport upgrades, and a fleet of modern electric buses launching in key corridors, signalling an era of sustainable, accessible urban mobility. Road corridors, expressways, and ring roads are emerging, reshaping the city’s layout, enhancing connectivity, and unlocking previously underused zones.

The city’s smart city initiatives have rethought urban living, revamping streetscapes to centre pedestrians, deploying digital services, and rejuvenating public spaces and heritage precincts, all while nurturing sustainable design and green infrastructure.

Chennai has also strengthened its social infrastructure. Educational

and healthcare access is deepening, public amenities are modernising, and residents now enjoy safer, more inclusive public spaces. Inclusive design features, from better street lighting to user-friendly transit hubs, are reshaping daily life with comfort and accessibility at their core.

Amidst rapid urban transformation, Chennai remains deeply rooted in its cultural soul. The city’s vibrant arts festivals, classical music and dance traditions, and timeless temple architecture continue to thrive, even as sleek metro lines and modern skylines emerge around them.

Along its breezy coastline, everyday life blends the old and the new, where heritage coexists with contemporary cafés and public spaces. Chennai offers a living tapestry that respects its past while adapting to the future. This harmony between cultural preservation and modern development defines the city’s unique and evolving identity.