The Rameshwaram Cafe Reimagines Mumbai’s Iconic Bun Maska with a Nostalgic Badam Milk Twist

MUMBAI, India : The Rameshwaram Cafe has announced the Mumbai launch of its viral culinary sensation: freshly baked Bun Maska served with piping-hot Badam Milk poured right over it. Developed in collaboration with Thirtha, a pure-vegetarian North Indian brand from Bangalore by The Rameshwaram Cafe team, the new pairing pays homage to Mumbai’s classic tea-time culture while introducing an indulgent, nostalgic twist.
The concept originated at Thirtha, where master bakers craft daily batches of pillowy, golden-crusted buns spread generously with rich, velvety maska using top-tier ingredients. Honouring Mumbai's deep connection to the classic bun maska, The Rameshwaram Cafe elevated the ritual by soaking the butter-laden bun in aromatic, slow-simmered Badam Milk infused with real nuts and warm spices. The result is an opulent melt-in-the-mouth treat that combines the comfort of old-school bakery traditions with the rich flavours of a classic Indian sweet milk recipe
"Mumbai’s love affair with Bun Maska is legendary, and we wanted to celebrate that timeless bond while offering something uniquely memorable," said the leadership team at The Rameshwaram Cafe. "Thirtha brought the foundation of exceptional in-house baking and premium maska, and together we introduced the warm Badam Milk pour. It captures pure nostalgia while delivering a fresh culinary experience that food lovers of all generations can enjoy.
"Now serving in Mumbai, this indulgent creation invites patrons to rediscover a city favorite reimagined through warmth, butter, and rich badam milk. Drop by to experience the comforting pour firsthand and taste how nostalgia meets modern indulgence in every bitea

Vietnam Golf Coast Serves Up an Autumn to Savour

New dining concepts, seasonal menus and major golf events add flavour to the fairways

DANANG, VIETNAM (Oct. , 2026) – Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) clubs are whetting the appetites of visiting golfers this autumn, pairing world-class golf with fresh culinary experiences as Central Vietnam continues to strengthen its appeal both on and off the course.

Leading the charge is Montgomerie Links, which is preparing to unveil The 19th Coffee & Beer, a completely refreshed dining destination overlooking the driving range and first tee. The new concept will combine contemporary design with indoor seating and a spacious outdoor terrace, providing an inviting setting for golfers before or after their round.

The menu will straddle East and West, combining contemporary Western dishes with authentic Vietnamese flavours and locally sourced ingredients. The opening complements Birdies Restaurant, overlooking the 18th green, as Montgomerie Links continues to develop the experience surrounding its championship layout.

“Great golf is still at the heart of everything we do, but the experience doesn’t begin and end on the course,” said Le Vo Hoang Van, Club Manager at Montgomerie Links. “The 19th gives golfers somewhere they can settle in before a round or linger afterwards, with good food, a relaxed atmosphere and views that keep them connected to the course.”

Ba Na Hills Golf Club is also sharpening its culinary offering for September and October with a new clubhouse menu mixing Vietnamese and international favourites. New signatures include beef short-rib phở, truffle creamy rigatoni with crispy chicken, Korean sundubu jjigae and crispy Vietnamese pancakes.

Seasonal specials further reflect the diversity of visitors to Central Vietnam, ranging from Phu Quoc-style bún quậy (seafood noodle soup) and Hoi An-inspired herbal tea to Korean kimchi jjigae. Mooncakes and Korean songpyeon will mark the autumn festival season, while new cocktails add another reason to linger at the clubhouse after golf.

“Food has become an increasingly important part of the golf experience in Central Vietnam,” said Andrew McGregor, General Manager at Ba Na Hills Golf Club. “Our golfers come from across Asia and around the world, so we want the clubhouse to reflect that diversity while retaining a strong sense of place through Vietnamese dishes and ingredients.”

The culinary activity coincides with a busy period on the fairways. Ba Na Hills will host the IMG Trophy 2026, bringing another major competitive occasion to the Luke Donald-designed course.

Beyond the clubs, food is an increasingly compelling part of Central Vietnam’s appeal. Danang’s dining scene spans local seafood and street-food favourites to restaurants recognised by the MICHELIN Guide, while nearby Hoi An remains one of Vietnam’s great culinary destinations, renowned for specialities such as cao lầu and cơm gà.

For visiting golfers, the combination adds another dimension to a region already celebrated for its championship courses, beaches, luxury resorts and UNESCO-listed heritage.

“Central Vietnam has always offered much more than golf,” Van added. “The quality and variety of dining is another part of what makes the destination so rewarding. A great round followed by a memorable meal is a combination that’s difficult to beat.”

EDITION Expands Its Global Footprint with a Landmark Debut in Cape Town

 Framed by Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town is defined by the interplay of nature and urban life, heritage and artistic spirit, and local identity and global influence. EDITION marks its African debut with The Cape Town EDITION – a gathering place poised to become a social nexus and a gateway to discover the city.

Cape Town joins EDITION's global portfolio of hotels in some of the world's most sought-after destinations ranging from Lake Como and Tokyo to London, New York, Riviera Maya and beyond, where thoughtful design, carefully curated culinary experiences and a strong sense of cultural relevance come together in a way that is distinctly EDITION.

“Cape Town has a distinctive energy shaped by extraordinary landscapes, diverse influences and an exceptional culinary scene,” said George Fleck, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, EDITION. “As one of the world’s most compelling cultural capitals, it is a natural home for EDITION. This opening marks an important milestone for the brand as we continue to grow in destinations that sit at the intersection of culture, creativity and global influence.”

Opening at Quay 7 on the V&A Waterfront, The Cape Town EDITION occupies a coveted position within Cape Town’s historic working harbor, a gateway that has connected cultures for centuries. Overlooking the V&A Waterfront’s new superyacht marina and facing Table Mountain, the hotel sits at the intersection of the city’s maritime heritage and vibrant cultural scene, surrounded by leading museums, art galleries, acclaimed restaurants, elevated retail and the dynamic atmosphere of the Waterfront neighborhood.

“The opening of The Cape Town EDITION is an important milestone in the V&A Waterfront’s continued evolution and a strong expression of confidence in Cape Town as a globally competitive tourism and investment destination,” said Graham Wood, Chief Executive Officer of the V&A Waterfront. “At Quay 7, the EDITION brings an exceptional international hospitality brand into a working harbor and connects it to the wider Waterfront neighborhood through new dining, cultural and public-facing experiences. It also signals the next chapter for Granger Bay: a well-connected waterfront district that creates long-term value for Cape Town, our visitors, and the communities we serve.”

Where Minimalistic Design Meets Maritime Heritage

Designed by Neri&Hu in collaboration with Cape Town-based architects and professional firms, The Cape Town EDITION draws on the industrial maritime character of Quay 7. The architecture references the warehouse structures that previously occupied the site through a long, low-slung form, pitched rooflines and a material language inspired by the working harbor. More than six million bricks were laid by hand in shifting patterns that bring texture to the façade, transforming a humble material through meticulous craftsmanship and creating a distinctive architectural identity rooted in place.

At the center of the hotel is The Drum, a soaring cylindrical space open to the elements above. Here, Cape Town's shifting light and sea air are welcomed in. A spiraling staircase ascends to an outdoor viewing platform, gradually revealing the city: the harbor, Table Mountain, the Atlantic and the rhythm of the Waterfront below. Part arrival experience, part public lookout, The Drum invites guests, visitors and locals alike to discover Cape Town from a new vantage point.

The hotel's 142 guestrooms and suites balance refined comfort with a distinctly residential sensibility. Bespoke furniture, natural finishes and cleverly integrated joinery inspired by 19th-century travel trunks create warm, layered interiors designed to feel both intuitive and deeply comfortable, while large windows frame sweeping views. Custom furnishings and rugs woven by KwaZulu-Natal-based Shuttleworth Weaving layer local craft into the experience. The 240-square-meter Penthouse and 112-square-meter Harbour Suite crown the hotel, with generous living spaces and panoramic outlooks.

Throughout the hotel, art and design serve as a reflection of Africa's creative landscape, connecting guests to the people, stories and traditions that shape the destination. Design Network Africa sourced progressive pieces from makers across the continent, including Zulu ukhamba vessels and mouth-blown recycled glass from Eswatini, a landlocked country in Southern Africa. Cape Town’s Southern Guild curated an art collection of established and emerging African voices, including Zanele Muholi’s black-and-white photographic portraits in Punch Room, EDITION’s contemporary take on the traditional punch house; Usha Seejarim’s Fading Dish Cloth, assembled from hundreds of wooden clothes pegs, appears in the spa; and Chuma Maweni’s smoke-fired ceramics lend a sculptural presence to the lobby and dining spaces.

The Cape Gathered Around the Table

With experience spanning Berners Tavern at The London EDITION and some of the Cape's leading restaurants, Executive Chef Phil Carmichael and award-winning South African beverage partner George Hunter lead the hotel's food and beverage program across a collection of distinct restaurants and bars, shaping experiences that move seamlessly from morning through late night.

The hotel’s signature restaurant, Shale, brings the Cape to the table through a seasonal menu, drawing on farmers, coastal fisheries, winemakers and independent producers. Meat is dry-aged in-house, while a predominantly South African wine list carries the regional story into the glass. Dishes are recognizable yet quietly unexpected, such as Saldanha Bay mussels in a curry velouté with seaweed salad and braised black rice. On the rooftop, EAVE offers a relaxed, yet refined, setting with broad views. Set beside the heated pool, the indoor-outdoor restaurant and bar moves from leisurely afternoons to sundowners, dinner and curated music programming after dark. The menu pairs refreshing cocktails and a thoughtful wine list with small plates that showcase the flavors of the Winelands and the surrounding coastline. The adjoining Pool Terrace follows the sun, from breakfast and easy midday bites to sunset cocktails and light dinners.

On the ground floor, EDITION’s signature Lobby Bar takes on the warmth and ease of a Cape Town living room, where hotel life and local rhythm meet. Anchored by a striking bar and pool table, the space seamlessly transitions from morning coffee meetings to light bites and evening drinks. Punch Room revives a centuries-old drinking ritual once carried along the trade routes that passed through the Cape. Wood paneling, velvet banquettes and low lighting create an intimate, opulent retreat, where punches are served in generous bowls for sharing. Local character finds expression in Brandewijn, a punch combining brandy, Pinotage, rooibos, pineapple, lemon and winter spice, offering a modern interpretation of the region's rich cultural and culinary heritage.

Moments of Renewal

The spa sits below sea level, cocooned from the energy of the waterfront above. Alongside five treatment rooms and a couples’ suite, the spa features a sauna and steam room, while infrared beds and Therabody recovery boots offer targeted support for rest and recovery. The treatment menu combines skincare, massage, fascia work and aromatherapy with Omorovicza’s mineral-rich formulations. The focus on wellbeing continues with a 24-hour gym and a daily program of yoga, breathwork, sound baths and movement sessions beside the heated rooftop pool and sun deck.

The hotel offers a collection of light-filled areas for meetings, gatherings and celebrations. At its heart is the flexible ballroom with a capacity of up to 200 people, complemented by a boardroom, two meeting studios and a private event terrace. Wellness programming, destination dining and social venues offer a more flexible approach to events, from harborside receptions and rooftop cocktails at EAVE to exclusive gatherings at Vantage, the hotel’s rooftop event space, and dinners at Shale. 

“We want The Cape Town EDITION to feel as relevant to a Capetonian as it does to someone visiting the city for the first time,” said Leonie Andereya, General Manager at The Cape Town EDITION. “Inspired by the warmth and authenticity of South African hospitality, we have created a place where locals and travelers come together through food, culture, creativity and conversation. Sophisticated but never formal, it offers a distinct lens on Cape Town and the feeling that you have discovered a side of the city, and a community within it, that you genuinely want to be part of.”

ITC Maratha Marks World Sustainability Day with a Continued Commitment to Responsible Luxury

Mumbai, October 2026: On World Sustainability Day, October 26, ITC Maratha, Mumbai, highlights over a decade of integrating sustainability into luxury hospitality. From reusing or recycling over 99% of solid waste to meeting approximately 80% of its energy requirements through renewable sources, the hotel continues to demonstrate how luxury and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

Part of ITC Hotels, recognised by the US Green Building Council (USGBC) for having the highest number of LEED Platinum-certified properties in its portfolio, ITC Maratha further strengthens its environmental credentials with the LEED Zero Carbon Certification from USGBC.

Sustainability at the hotel extends across dining, banqueting and everyday operations. Responsible Dining encourages mindful food choices, Alert Meets offers wholesome gourmet fare centred on seasonal produce, while One Bite Wonder features thoughtfully prepared bite-sized creations. Through Green Banquets, the hotel incorporates locally sourced menus and resource-conscious practices into meetings and celebrations.

The hotel also uses 47% less water than the USGBC benchmark for large luxury hotels and harvests rainwater across 100% of its area. Its Sunya Aqua initiative enables drinking water to be purified and bottled in-house, helping reduce transportation-related emissions. An in-house biogas plant converts wet waste into kitchen fuel, diverting approximately one lakh kilograms of organic waste from landfills. Organic Waste Converters further support responsible waste management, while alternatives such as glass bottles, paper straws and bamboo amenities have replaced single-use plastic products.

Extending its commitment to events and celebrations, ITC Maratha offsets event-related carbon emissions through carbon credits at no additional cost to guests.

On World Sustainability Day, ITC Maratha reaffirms its commitment to responsible luxury, demonstrating how thoughtful choices, efficient resource management and measurable environmental action can contribute to a more sustainable future for hospitality.

Ramee Group Announces Premium Sea-View Resort with 70-Key Property in Dapoli, Maharashtra

~Positioned as the Ultimate Coastal Getaway for Mumbai and Pune Residents, the New Property Offers Sea-View Rooms, Premium Wellness Amenities, and Expansive Destination Wedding Venues~

National, October 2026 - Ramee Group of Hotels, a globally acclaimed hospitality brand known for its vibrant lifestyle experiences and guest-centric service has officially announced the extension of its leisure portfolio with the launch of its new resort property in the coastal town of Dapoli, Maharashtra. Featuring 70 keys comprising premium rooms and serviced apartments, every single guestroom commands panoramic and unobstructed views of the Arabian Sea.

Commenting on the landmark launch, Saurabh Gahoi, Senior Vice President – India, Ramee Group of Hotels, stated: "Our robust expansion plan lays emphasis on delivering immersive experiences wrapped in authenticity. You will see that with all our new upcoming property launches. Dapoli is rapidly emerging as India's next prominent weekend getaway, strategically serving major urban clusters including Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and surrounding regions. The addition of the Dapoli property marks an exciting milestone in our resort portfolio. By offering sprawling sea views from every room and comfortable, thoughtfully designed stays, we are creating a unique sanctuary for guests.”

"We are delighted to partner with Ramee Group of Hotels, one of the most respected hospitality brands in the lifestyle & leisure space. Phatak Developers is committed to elevating Konkan’s tourism, and this collaboration marks an exciting step toward bringing world-class hospitality to Dapoli. We have complete trust in Ramee Group's operational expertise and we look forward to setting a new benchmark for coastal hospitality together” said, Akshay Phatak, Owner of Agatsya Hospitality (a subsidiary of Phatak Developers)

Designed to meet the growing demand for experiential upscale and leisure, the property features an array of premium hospitality facilities. Culinary experiences are centered around a flagship All-Day Dining restaurant serving a curated mix of global favourites and authentic local coastal cuisine. For recreation and relaxation, guests can access a fully equipped state-of-the-art gymnasium, a rejuvenating spa, an expansive swimming pool, and a dedicated indoor/outdoor Kids Play Area. Furthermore, the property addresses a major market gap in the region with its massive indoor and outdoor banqueting spaces, specifically configured for corporate retreats and large-scale celebrations.

The resort is designed for modern experiential travellers, families, and destination wedding planners seeking a deeper connection with nature and coastal heritage. With its pristine coastal beauty and Ramee Group’s signature standard of hospitality infrastructure, the new Dapoli resort is poised to redefine Western India’s tourism landscape.

Sterling Opens Bandhavgarh Resort , Bringing Together Tiger Country, Heritage and Culture

New addition strengthens Sterling's Central India wilderness portfolio and creates opportunities for connected journeys across Bandhavgarh and Kanha.

Chennai, October 2026: Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited (SHRL) has announced the opening of Sterling Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh, strengthening its presence across Central India's leading wildlife destinations and adding another distinctive forest experience to its growing wilderness portfolio.

With resorts across 15 celebrated wildlife landscapes of India, Sterling is deliberately building wilderness travel as a distinct leisure category. Bandhavgarh strengthens this strategy by bringing one of India's most recognised tiger destinations into a portfolio designed to offer travellers different forests, different experiences and more reasons to explore.

The opportunity goes beyond the excitement of a tiger sighting. Bandhavgarh combines dense sal forests, open meadows and rich biodiversity with an extraordinary historical landscape. Ancient sculptures, caves, the heritage of Bandhavgarh Fort and the reclining Vishnu at Shesh Shaiya reveal a destination where wilderness and centuries of human history coexist.

For families, this creates a more complete holiday proposition. The anticipation of a safari can be combined with birdwatching, village walks, nature trails, regional cuisine and relaxed time together, allowing travellers of different generations to discover Bandhavgarh in their own way.

Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited (SHRL), said: " “India's wilderness destinations are far more diverse than the wildlife they are famous for. Every forest has its own landscape, history, culture and cuisine—and therefore a different story to discover.

Bandhavgarh is particularly compelling because it brings together one of India's celebrated tiger habitats with centuries of heritage and the distinctive culture of Baghelkhand. As Destination Architects, our ambition is to bring these dimensions together so that a safari becomes part of a richer, more memorable holiday for families.

With Sterling's growing presence across wildlife and nature destinations, we also have the opportunity to connect individual forests into compelling journeys, such as Bandhavgarh and Kanha.

We are not simply adding destinations to our wilderness portfolio. We are giving travellers more reasons to discover India's forests—and more reasons to return.

With Bandhavgarh joining our growing presence across Central India, we also see the opportunity to develop richer journeys that connect different wilderness landscapes.

Our ambition is to make wildlife holidays about discovering the forest and everything around it, not just the sighting."

Located in Tala village, approximately 2.5 km from Tala Gate of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Sterling Bandhavgarh offers an intimate retreat with 26 rooms across four distinctive categories - its Machan Suites feature private machans and outdoor showers, while Courtyard Rooms with Balconies offer garden-facing outdoor spaces. Safari Tents with Private Sit-outs bring a sense of adventure to the stay, complemented by comfortable Forest Rooms. A swimming pool, gardens and outdoor relaxation spaces create easy downtime between excursions.

Speaking on the launch Mr. Pranav Sharma, owner of Mahalaxmi Commercial Service Pvt Ltd, said :  “Our association with Sterling at Kanha has given us the confidence to extend this partnership to Bandhavgarh. Sterling brings strong operating expertise, brand reach and an understanding of how to create distinctive destination experiences. We are delighted to build on this successful relationship and bring another compelling wilderness retreat to travellers”

The resort's location provides convenient access to Tala Gate, with opportunities to explore other safari zones such as Magadhi and Khitauli, subject to Forest Department permits and regulations. Birdwatching, village walks, nature trails and cycling offer additional ways to experience the surrounding landscape, while the region's historical and cultural attractions add depth to longer stays.

Baghelkhand's culinary heritage provides another connection to the destination.

At The Sal, regional preparations such as Birra ki Roti, Saal Patta Murgh, Baans Mein Pakaya Chawal and Kumhde ki Kheer draw on traditional cooking methods, local grains and forest-inspired ingredients. Alongside Indian and international favourites, the resort's culinary proposition explores experiences such as the Jungle Thali, showcasing the flavours of Baghelkhand, and Gaon ki Rasoi, inspired by the cooking traditions of local communities. Outdoor dining and bonfire evenings add to the experience of being close to nature.

Bandhavgarh also opens up opportunities for travellers to explore more of Madhya Pradesh's wilderness. With Sterling's presence in Kanha, the two destinations offer the potential for a Bandhavgarh–Kanha forest journey, bringing together distinct habitats, landscapes and wildlife experiences within a single holiday.

With Bandhavgarh joining its growing wilderness network, Sterling is moving beyond individual wildlife stays towards a more connected way of discovering India's forests. From the tiger landscapes of Central India (Madhya Pradesh) to the distinctive wilderness of Rajasthan  , Maharashtra, Uttarakhand  each destination adds a different experience to the portfolio—giving travellers more choice, families more reasons to explore together, and Sterling greater opportunity to build journeys that extend beyond a single safari or destination.

Black Rock Hotels & Resorts Announces Nearly 900-Room Expansion, Enters Hotel Ownership with 241-Key Udaipur Project

Hospitality group targets six upcoming hotel openings, with signed projects in Jim Corbett and Vrindavan marking its expansion beyond Rajasthan

Jaipur, October 2026: Black Rock Hotels & Resorts has unveiled an expansion pipeline of approximately 900 rooms, marking a significant new phase for the Rajasthan-based hospitality company as it moves beyond third-party hotel management into hotel ownership and enters new markets across North India.

The company, which currently operates seven hotels with approximately 950 rooms, is targeting six additional hotel openings through 2027. The expansion includes its first owned hotel in Udaipur, two signed properties in Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand, and a hotel project in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. The proposed additions are expected to take Black Rock's total inventory close to 2,000 rooms, subject to development and opening schedules.

The centrepiece of the expansion is Kingsbury, a 241-room hotel under development in Udaipur, which will mark Black Rock's entry into hotel ownership. Located alongside a lake and surrounded by hills, the property is scheduled to commence operations with approximately 160 rooms in March 2027.

The project has been designed with substantial infrastructure for destination weddings, conferences and large social gatherings. Its planned facilities include two ballrooms measuring approximately 4,000 sq. ft. and 14,000 sq. ft., an 11,000 sq. ft. courtyard, a 6,000 sq. ft. pool deck, a 10,000 sq. ft. rooftop event space and three lakeside venues. The property will also have five garden spaces ranging from approximately 10,000 to 50,000 sq. ft.

Beyond Rajasthan, Black Rock has signed two hotels in Jim Corbett, comprising 115 and 135 rooms respectively, with openings indicated for October 2027. The company has also signed a project in Vrindavan, establishing a foothold in Uttar Pradesh.

Commenting on the expansion, Anshul Bhargava, Founder & Chairman, Black Rock Hotels & Resorts, said, “We have built our business around operating hotels where weddings, conferences and leisure contribute substantially to revenue. Our next phase is about taking that experience into new markets while also developing assets of our own. Udaipur will be an important milestone because we have been able to plan the property around the operational requirements of these segments. With a sizeable pipeline ahead, we are moving towards a larger, geographically diversified portfolio while remaining focused on commercial viability and operating performance.”

The expansion also reflects Black Rock's distinctive management approach. Unlike conventional hotel management agreements based primarily on management fees, the company operates through revenue-sharing arrangements, assuming responsibility for staffing, operating expenditure and day-to-day hotel management while providing property owners an agreed share of revenue.

The addition of owned assets will introduce a second growth model alongside these management agreements, allowing Black Rock to participate directly in hotel development while continuing to expand through partnerships with independent property owners.

With the next phase of development underway, Black Rock is positioning itself as a larger hospitality owner-operator with a focus on destination resorts, weddings, MICE and leisure markets

Summit Hotels & Resorts Signs Offbeat Retreat in Samthar, West Bengal

The property, scheduled to open in October-November 2026, will mark Summit’s entry into the relatively unexplored Himalayan destination


Siliguri, 2026: Summit Hotels & Resorts has signed a 24-key property in Samthar, an emerging mountain destination in West Bengal, as the hospitality company continues to deepen its presence across lesser-explored destinations in the Eastern Himalayas. Scheduled to open in October-November 2026, Summit Samthar – The Offbeat Collection will become part of the company’s recently introduced Offbeat portfolio, which focuses on destinations beyond established tourist circuits.

Located approximately 30 km from Siliguri, Samthar is surrounded by forests, tea gardens and Himalayan landscapes. Unlike the region’s more established hill stations, the destination remains relatively underexplored, with potential for nature-led and slow travel, hiking and birdwatching.

The upcoming property will have 24 Kanchenjunga-facing rooms, all with private balconies, along with an in-house restaurant, private lawn, a tea garden, children's play area, common sitting spaces and extensive outdoor areas.

“Samthar represents exactly the kind of destination we believe has considerable potential for the next phase of leisure travel in the region. Our experience in the Eastern Himalayas has shown us that when hospitality reaches a lesser-known destination, its impact goes beyond the hotel itself. It creates local employment, generates demand for transport and other services, and allows us to source produce and everyday requirements from local shops and suppliers. We have seen this around properties such as Summit Bougainvillea Tea Resort in Tindharia, Summit Tashi Ghang Heritage Resort in Pelling and Summit Enigma Resort & Spa in Lamahatta. Our aim in Samthar is to become part of the local economy while introducing more travellers to the destination without taking away the character that makes it worth discovering,” said Sumit Mitruka, Founder & CEO, Summit Hotels & Resorts.

The signing also builds on Summit’s strategy of expanding beyond established tourism centres into smaller destinations across the Eastern Himalayas. The company has identified destination development as a key part of its Offbeat Collection, with hospitality investment expected to support local employment, tourism services and longer visitor stays in these markets.

For Samthar, Summit expects the new property to help introduce the destination to a wider leisure audience while encouraging travellers to extend their North Bengal itineraries into lesser-known parts of the region. The development comes as Summit Hotels & Resorts broadens its portfolio through three distinct propositions, Offbeat, Signature and Mandir, spanning emerging destinations, premium destination hospitality and spiritual tourism respectively.

A Continued Testament to Refined Elegance: OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI Retains Coveted MICHELIN Key for Second Consecutive Year

This rare honour reaffirms the resort's place at the pinnacle of ultra-luxury hospitality, where every detail is curated and every guest is truly seen 

 Maldives, S 2026 – In the rarefied realm of the MICHELIN Key, with nearly 500 bestowed worldwide across a multitude of extraordinary properties, true distinction is found not in abundance, but in scarcity. OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI is counted among just 15 resorts in the Maldives to receive this coveted honour, a distinction that speaks volumes about its unwavering commitment to excellence.  

While international hospitality superpowers have long staked their claim on the Maldives, there remains room for something more intimate, a vision both all-encompassing and uncompromising. THE OZEN COLLECTION, an exclusive luxury brand within the island nation, has nurtured a flagship that stands shoulder to shoulder with the most recognisable names in the region. OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI commands its own private island and lagoon in the South Malé Atoll, where a curated collection of suites, villas, pavilions, and RESERVES redefines the art of refined Maldivian living. 

The MICHELIN Key serves as a powerful endorsement of the brand's philosophy of refined elegance, one where every aspect of the guest journey is meticulously curated, from the moment of arrival to the final farewell. At its heart lies the signature RESERVE™ Plan, a comprehensive paradigm of all-encompassing indulgence that ensures a seamless continuum of bespoke experiences: unlimited gourmet dining across multiple specialty restaurants, a curated selection of premium international beverages, and the dedicated service of a private Hiyani butler who anticipates every desire with discreet precision. 

Beyond the table and the villa, the resort offers dedicated sanctuaries for wellbeing and connoisseurship. The award-winning ELE|NA Elements of Nature Spa invites guests into transformative wellness journeys. Meanwhile, the exclusive CUVEÉ wine library, housing over 300 prestigious labels, offers a sophisticated enclave for curated tastings, where rare vintages and expert guidance converge.  

Speaking on the recognition, Abnash Kumar, General Manager of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, remarked: "To retain the MICHELIN Key is a profound honour. It is not simply an award, it reflects the passion and dedication that our team brings to every guest, daily. It speaks to our commitment to creating experiences that go beyond expectation, where every detail matters, every moment is meaningful, and every guest feels genuinely seen. This recognition belongs to them, and to the guests who inspire us to keep raising the bar." 

Each element of the island converges to create something rare: a holiday that feels both boundless and intimately yours. As OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI looks ahead, it does so with quiet confidence, continuing to redefine what it means to experience the Maldives at its most extraordinary.

The Great North targets share of £1.5bn Indian tourism market to drive growth across the North

Mumbai, October 2026: The North of England has joined forces under The Great North banner to target a greater share of India’s rapidly growing visitor market, with the ambition of attracting more tourists to discover the North. 

VisitBritain’s latest forecast shows India is set to become a £1.5 billion inbound visitor market for the UK by 2030, an increase of 71% from 2026, creating a significant opportunity for Northern destinations and tourism businesses to attract more visitors, encourage longer stays and increase spending across the North.

 That opportunity was presented at the first-ever joint North of England Mayoral trade mission to India, where Northern Mayors, VisitBritain and tourism partners promoted the North’s collective visitor offer to 150 leading Indian travel buyers and media at events in New Delhi and Mumbai. 

 The Great North and VisitBritain activity falls under The GREAT Britain & Northern Ireland Campaign which aims to enhance the UK’s global reputation and drives economic growth by encouraging international audiences to visit, study, trade and invest in the UK.

 By coming together around a shared proposition, the North’s cities, destinations and visitor attractions can offer international visitors an experience greater than the sum of its parts, combining globally recognised sport, music and culture with heritage, countryside, screen tourism and premium experiences.

 Looking at this year, VisitBritain forecasts 597,000 visits from India to the UK, with visitors estimated to spend £865 million during their trips. By making it easier for the international travel trade to build multi-destination Northern itineraries, partners aim to encourage more of those visitors to explore the North, stay longer and spend across more destinations.

 The relationships established during the mission will continue in November when Indian travel buyers and media travel to the North for Spotlight Manchester: Gateway to Northern England and North Wales, providing a further opportunity to turn interest into bookable itineraries and longer-term trade partnerships.

 Kim McGuinness, North East Mayor and Chair of The Great North, said, “We want Indian visitors to enjoy everything Britain has to offer, but to travel further, stay longer and experience more. From our great cities and spectacular landscapes to Premier League football, international cricket, castles, culture and coastline, the North has an incredible amount to offer.

 The North East is a place I'm incredibly proud to call home, and our greatest strength is the warmth and hospitality of our people. We've experienced that same wonderful welcome in India, and I want us to return it to many more Indian visitors.

By bringing our regions together through The Great North, we're putting the North of England on the international stage. Now we want to work with the Indian travel trade to turn that opportunity into unforgettable journeys, more visitors and bookings, and lasting economic benefits for our communities.”

 Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “The Liverpool City Region has so much to offer Indian visitors. We’re the UK’s cultural capital, home to The Beatles, two Premier League football clubs and an internationally renowned music, arts and cultural scene.

 As the UK’s third most visited region by international visitors, our visitor economy generates almost £7 billion a year and supports more than 58,000 local jobs. And beyond the world-class attractions, there’s nowhere quite like Liverpool when it comes to the warmth of our welcome.

 India’s growing tourism market presents a fantastic opportunity for the entire North, and through The Great North, we want to showcase the very best our regions have to offer, encouraging visitors to explore more, stay longer and experience the distinctive character of the North.

 Our message is simple: come and discover a city region with the ambition, infrastructure and connectivity to make every visit memorable.”

 Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said, “From Bronte Country to bustling nightlife, Hepworth to Hockney, West Yorkshire has so much culture at its heart. Across Yorkshire, tourism, including screen tourism, is worth a whopping £9 billion every year. As the partnership of the Great North, we can showcase our spectacular sights, vibrant culture, and encourage more people to explore our regions.”

 Patricia Yates, CEO, VisitBritain, said, “We are proud to be working alongside Mayors, destinations and industry leaders from across the North of England to support the tourism programme for the inaugural North of England Mayoral Delegation to India, one of our fastest-growing markets.

 Drawing on our in-market expertise and relationships in India, we are telling the story of the North of England’s outstanding tourism offer, from its vibrant cities, rich heritage and spectacular scenery to world-class sporting grounds and visitor experiences. Working directly with the travel trade in India gets our products sold and broadens itineraries, so visitors explore further, stay longer and spend more.

 Strong and growing air connectivity between India and the regional gateway of Manchester is making it easier than ever for visitors to discover more. With India forecast to become a £1.5 billion visitor market for the UK by 2030, our destination showcase event is a timely and valuable opportunity to drive growth and visitor spending across the region and beyond.”

 Francine Bult, Senior Marketing Executive at Cumbria Tourism, said, “This collaborative Indian trade mission is another fantastic opportunity to showcase our destination to a fast-growing global visitor market. Working together across the North, it’s vital to forge direct one-to-one relationships and ensure tour operators have the right information at the right time to plan their schedules for 2027 and beyond. Key markets like India are vital to sustaining a thriving visitor economy, and we will continue working hard with our Northern partners to put relationships with inbound operators and product development at the forefront of our international marketing activity.”

 Angela Hodson, Commercial Director at Lancashire Cricket, said, “India is an incredibly important market for Lancashire Cricket and Manchester, and we are proud of the strong connections we have built with cricket in India over many years.

With India set to return to Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground for major international fixtures in both 2028 and 2029, we have a fantastic opportunity to welcome even more visitors from India to the City. We also have Manchester Super Giants playing in The Hundred at our venue as part of our joint venture with RPSG Group – who also own IPL franchise Lucknow Super Giants.

 From Catchday hospitality and events to our on-site Hilton Garden Inn hotel at Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground, there is a real opportunity to showcase Manchester and the North as a destination in its own right. Working collectively through The Great North gives us an opportunity to build on that appeal, create experiences for Indian visitors and encourage them to stay longer and return in the future.”

 Turning international interest into visits

As part of the North of England Mayoral trade mission, destinations and tourism businesses took part in the England’s Great North Destination Showcase 2026 in Delhi and Mumbai.

 Representatives from Marketing Manchester, Cumbria Tourism, Marketing Liverpool, West Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership and Experience NorthEast England joined businesses and attractions from across the region to build relationships with Indian travel buyers and media, with a focus on developing bookable products and expanding Northern itineraries.

 The activity will continue in November through Spotlight Manchester: Gateway to Northern England and North Wales, hosted by VisitBritain and Marketing Manchester. The event will bring Indian travel buyers and media to the region to experience its visitor offer first-hand and build relationships with destinations and tourism businesses.

 By turning the connections established in India into bookable itineraries and longer-term trade partnerships, the programme aims to create a lasting legacy from the mission and support the North in securing a greater share of international tourism growth.

 The tourism programme forms part of The Great North’s wider ambition to harness the collective scale and strengths of the North of England to compete internationally and generate new opportunities for trade, investment and tourism.