Mocha Café & Bar Brings a Trendsetting New Mood to Connaught Place

Mocha’s new café in Connaught Place serves everything from breakfast specials to innovative bar bites, keeping flavours exciting all day long. 

New Delhi, December 2025: Mocha, one of India’s most iconic homegrown café brands, welcomes you to Mocha Café & Bar in Connaught Place, marking its return to the NCR and a new chapter in its two-decade-long legacy. The revived Connaught Place restaurant brings that ethos back in an evolved  café-and-bar format, relaxed by day, vibrant by night, and in sync with the beat of contemporary Delhi

Now celebrating 24 years, Mocha continues to shape the way people dine and connect. Since opening  its doors at Churchgate Mumbai in 2001, Mocha has played a key role in defining India’s café culture.  Known for its scrumptious food ,warm and inviting spaces, Mocha offers more than just great food— it creates experiences. Every Mocha is designed to feel like an extension of home, where people come  together, share stories, enjoy meaningful conversations, and make lasting memories.  

A Beloved Delhi Legacy Returns 

First introduced to Delhi in 2004 through its beloved GK-1 café, Mocha helped shape the city’s early  café culture with its warm and inviting spaces designed for great coffee, comforting food, and unhur ried conversations. Reflecting the vision behind the new space, Mr. Riyaaz Amlani, MD of Impresario  Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd, shares, 

“Mocha is a state of mind. At its core, we embrace the spirit of letting you be. Each Mocha is de signed as a unique retreat, offering a distinct experience every time you walk in. We waited for the  right location to bring Mocha back to Delhi, and once we found it, we set out to create a true escape  in the heart of urban life. The result is a space designed to awaken your senses, redefine Delhi’s food  and nightlife culture, and receive a warm, heartfelt response from the city’s food lovers.” 

Building on the energy lent by those who frequent it, Mocha has founded communities that are not  restricted by geography or dictated by a few but rather are a gathering of likeminded people. With a  belief that each customer makes his or her own space at Mocha, the mood is unlike any and transports  you to a zone where you can put your feet up and watch the world go by. Mocha continues to set the  standard for innovative café experiences, offering a perfect blend of comfort, creativity, and connec tion.  

Rishub Malhotra, Franchisee Partner, Mocha Café & Bar, adds: 

“Connaught Place has the vibrancy and cultural energy that perfectly match Mocha’s spirit. With  Mocha Café & Bar, we wanted to create a warm, everyday space where great food, great cocktails,  and great conversations come together. Mocha CP feels familiar yet fresh, the kind of place that  quickly becomes ‘your spot’ in the heart of the city.”

Mocha’s all day menu offers comforting, multicultural flavours for every mood, from Bun Maska &  Chai, Korean Garlic Bun, Keema Ghotala, Smoothie Bowls, and Global Omelettes to Purani Dil li inspired dishes, Asian bowls, pastas, pizzas, bao, burgers, momos, paninis, sandwiches, and  sizzlers. 

Indian favourites such as Dal Makhani, Paneer Tikka Butter Masala, Matka Chicken, Murgh  Rara, and Dum Biryanis anchor the menu, while decadent desserts including Biscoff and Hazelnut  Mocha cheesecakes, Mocha Lava Lava, Sizzling Brownie, Kunafa, and Chocolate Avalanche of fer a perfect finish. 

Complementing its signature beverages, the café and bar format includes a curated alcohol menu with clarified cocktails, wines, and premium spirits, ideal for meet ups, after work drinks, or late night  conversations. 

Pradeep Pathak, AVP Operations India, shares: “At Mocha, we study food culture rather than  trends. This guides what we add to the menu, helping us enhance and complement our culinary offer ing. We are excited for Mocha’s next voyage and can’t wait for guests to share their experiences. Our  guests have always been our driving force, and they’re the reason we are still here after twenty four  years.” 

A Design Rooted in Fluid Lutyens’ Delhi 

Mocha CP has been reimagined with refined bohemian warmth. The space features an earthy, neutral  palette enriched with terrazzo flooring, textured walls, rough stone, wood, terracotta accents, and soft  greenery. 

Designers Prantap Trikha- Praxis Studio & Asif Kureshi -The Matchworks share: “We wanted Mocha CP to echo the spirit of Lutyens’ Delhi through a softer, more fluid lens, modern  boho sensibilities blended with the architectural and cultural cues of the neighbourhood. The design  subtly draws from the idea of “Fluid Lutyens’ Delhi”, with sculptural elements, botanical art, and  nods to neighbourhood landmarks such as Agrasen ki Baoli and Jantar Mantar, creating an immer sive yet understated connection to the area’s architectural heritage. 

Rajiv Dogra Brand Chef says All the dishes are designed keeping the mind the palette of Delhites and  are meant to let you bond over great food with family and friends.With options to satiate liquor afi cionados as well as foodies, there will be something new to sample on every visit. 

Mocha Café & Bar CP is poised to become one of Connaught Place’s most inviting new social spaces,  a destination where mornings linger, evenings spark to life and coffee sits comfortably beside cock tails in an atmosphere that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.  

Whether you drop in alone or with someone else..you can read a book, hum along to a favourite tune,  work on your laptop or just listen to the sounds of laughter and chatter that Mocha is always filled  with. Be it a peaceful morning breakfast, a comfortable working atmosphere or a socializing evening,  we have accommodated it all.  

We take immense pride in presenting The MOCHA Cafe & Bar @ Connaught Place to you.” The  overall effect is that of a peaceful abode where you would least expect one. So come by and soak it in  for yourself. You will be in a Mocha state of mind in no time at all!

About Mocha: 

Mocha, the flagship and award winning brand from Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt.  Ltd. (IEHPL), is India!s first completely indigenous, eclectic café brand. Offering a wide ranging menu shaped by local and cultural nuances, Mocha is one of the country!s most successful café and bar concepts. Born in 2001 in the bylanes of Churchgate, Mumbai, and introduced to Delhi in 2004  with its iconic GK 1 outpost, Mocha has spent over two decades shaping India!s urban café culture through its warm spaces and community driven ethos. Today, the brand continues to evolve with its  café and bar format, bringing together great food and experiences that feel both familiar and refresh ingly contemporary. 

Ammakai by Bastian Hospitality Brings Mangalorean Home Cooking to Bandra

Led by Ranjit Bindra, Founder & CEO of Bastian Hospitality venture, celebrates coastal Mangalorean cuisine rooted in tradition, emotion, and shared meals.

Bastian Hospitality, led by founder Ranjit Bindra, expands its culinary portfolio with the launch of Ammakai, an all-day dining South Indian restaurant in Bandra that celebrates the warmth and comfort of home-style cooking. Inspired by the idea of Ammakai, meaning Mom’s Hand, the restaurant draws from the rich culinary traditions of Mangalorean households, where recipes are guided by memory, instinct, and love rather than written rules. Ammakai is also among the few South Indian restaurants to serve matcha alongside traditional preparations, offering a contemporary dining experience.

Ammakai is led by chefs from southern India with years of experience, who travelled to villages in Mangalore to learn recipes directly from home kitchens. The focus is on presenting Mangalorean cuisine in a way that feels refined and relevant while staying true to its roots, highlighting coastal flavours defined by coconut, tamarind, and spices. Rather than reinventing the food, the menu reveals the depth of the cuisine through thoughtful, modern touches.

Guests are encouraged to eat with their hands and discover lesser-known regional dishes, while a few Bastian classics have been retained due to the emotional significance of the space. With modern branding but a contemporary take on southern flavours, Ammakai offers a warm, personal dining experience inspired by the hospitality of the southern coast. Designed as an all-day dining space, the restaurant is also consciously priced to be accessible and inclusive, making it a place guests can visit often, not just for special occasions.

Talking about the Ammakai, Mr Ranjit Bindra, Founder and CEO of Bastian Hospitality, shares, “Ammakai reflects the kind of food and hospitality we have always believed in at Bastian Hospitality: comfort-led, honest, and rooted in familiar flavours. What sets Ammakai apart is its approach to South Indian cuisine, where the focus is on specific regional traditions rather than a broad, generic menu. The food is guided by home-style techniques, instinctive cooking, and flavours that come from lived experience. It’s a natural extension of how we build our restaurants, creating spaces that feel welcoming and food that people can return to time and again.”

For Bastian Hospitality, building restaurants has never been about creating standalone destinations. It’s about building community spaces where people from different generations come together, where meals feel familiar yet special, and where food becomes a shared language. The space mirrors this philosophy. Warm, coastal, and quietly sophisticated, Ammakai feels like a place you want to return to.

The signature dishes anchor the menu and tell their own stories. The Mutton Khara Boti is bold and rustic, layered with traditional Mangalorean spice blends that deliver depth and heat in every bite. In contrast, the Coastal Stew is delicate and soulful, a comforting bowl that captures the gentler side of coastal cooking. The family-style Ammakai Dosa, simple and deeply reassuring, brings everyone to the table, embodying the restaurant’s ethos of shared meals and togetherness.

With Ammakai, Bastian Hospitality continues to evolve as a multi-cuisine hospitality group, guided by founder Ranjit Bindra’s vision of creating spaces that are as emotionally resonant as they are culinary-driven. More than just a restaurant, Ammakai is a reminder that the best meals are the ones that feel like home, and that in Bandra, that home now has a new address.

Darjeeling Tops Agoda's List of Most Searched Domestic Destinations in North-East for Oct-Dec 2025

Cherrapunji, Pelling, and Kalimpong are also enjoying increased domestic interest
 

National,December 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed its latest insights into domestic travel interest to India’s North-East. Darjeeling (West Bengal) emerging as the most searched destination in the region on Agoda for the period of October to December 2025. The picturesque hill station, Gangtok (Sikkim) in second, and Shillong (Meghalaya) in third, together form the top trio of destinations in the region, drawing travellers with their scenic beauty and unique cultural experiences.  

The data, based on accommodation searches made on Agoda by Indians between July and September 2025, underscores the appeal of these hill stations as quintessential retreats for domestic travelers in the holiday season. 

Following the top 3 closely are Guwahati (Assam) and Siliguri (West Bengal) in the fourth and fifth spot, respectively. Guwahati's lively city life and Siliguri's strategic location as a gateway to the region make them integral parts of many travel itineraries.  

To underline the growing popularity of India’s North-East, smaller towns like Cherrapunji (Meghalaya), Pelling (Sikkim), and Kalimpong (West Bengal) are also drawing increased attention from domestic travelers. Cherrapunji offers lush landscapes and stunning waterfalls, Pelling provides breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range, and Kalimpong delights with vibrant flower markets and colonial architecture. These hidden gems are also enriching the North-East travel experience with their quaint offerings. 

Commenting on the trend, Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, said, “It's great to witness travellers embracing the diverse landscapes of India, in this case the North-East. The region's natural beauty and serenity captivate those seeking both popular and quaint experiences. In recent years, many accommodation providers, including hotels, hostels, and non-hotel accommodations like villas, serviced apartments, and homestays, have partnered with Agoda to capture the growing interest from domestic and inbound travelers alike. I would encourage any hotelier or other accommodation provider, big or small, that isn’t listed on Agoda yet to take advantage of our easy 30-minute onboarding program to ensure they aren’t missing out.” 

With over 130,000 flight routes, more than 6 million holiday properties, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda offers flexible options and deals to help travelers discover destinations that suit their plans and preferences. Discover the best deals on Agoda's mobile app and visit Agoda.com to plan the perfect year-end trips.   

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Expands Presence in Pune with The Fern Habitat Pune, Mundhwa, Series by Marriott

Mumbai, December 2025: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is pleased to announce the launch of its newest property in Maharashtra- The Fern Habitat Pune, Mundhwa, Series by Marriott. Strategically located adjacent to Mundhwa-Ghorpadi Road and positioned as an extension of Koregaon Park, the hotel offers seamless connectivity to Pune’s prominent business corridors and lifestyle hubs. With this addition, The Fern Hotels & Resorts continues to strengthen its presence in Pune, a key market driven by sustained corporate travel and evolving urban hospitality needs. The company now has a total of 7 hotels in Pune, both operational and opening shortly.

Mr. Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, shared, “Pune has consistently demonstrated strong momentum as a hub for education, technology, manufacturing and entrepreneurship, which continues to drive demand for efficient and well-connected hospitality offerings. The Fern Habitat Pune, Mundhwa, Series by Marriott has been conceptualised to address the needs of today’s discerning traveller by combining strategic location, functional design and value-driven comfort.”

The Fern Habitat Pune, Mundhwa, Series by Marriott is an Apartotel - a unique concept that blends the flexibility of apartment-style living with the services and amenities of a modern hotel. The hotel features 33 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites across three categories where each accommodation is designed to deliver a comfortable and functional stay with modern in-room amenities. Culinary offerings at the hotel include The Canteen, the all-day multi-cuisine restaurant serving a diverse selection of local and international dishes along with savouries and snacks. Designed for both business and leisure guests, the restaurant operates from morning until late evening and offers a relaxed dining experience. In-room dining is available with a specially curated menu including options for children.

The hotel is equipped with contemporary meeting and event facilities designed to host corporate interactions and social gatherings. The 1000 sq. ft. Activity Hall offers a versatile indoor venue suitable for meetings and private events. The hotel also features a well-equipped gym/fitness centre to ensure a seamless guest experience. As a Series by Marriott hotel, all guests at the hotel will enjoy all the benefits of Marriott’s award-winning Bonvoy Loyalty Program.

Conveniently located 8 km from Pune Airport, 9 km from Pune Junction Railway Station and 14 km from Shivajinagar Bus Stand, the hotel provides easy access to key business destinations such as Kharadi IT Park and Magarpatta. Whether for corporate travel or leisure stays, The Fern Habitat Pune, Mundhwa, Series by Marriott offers a smart, comfortable and well-connected hospitality experience aligned with The Fern’s commitment to responsible and sustainable growth.

IHG Hotels & Resorts joins hands with YB Group to enhance its portfolio in Mumbai with Holiday Inn Express Mumbai BKC

The 100-key hotel will serve strong corporate, MICE, and transit demand in one of India’s most robust business destinations

India, December 2025: IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a franchise agreement with the Yb Group for the development of Holiday Inn Express Mumbai BKC. Scheduled to open in Q1 2028, the upcoming hotel marks a relevant addition to IHG’s essentials offerings in Mumbai, further reinforcing the company’s growth strategy to grow in high demand and potential markets across India.

Situated on the periphery of Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) — Mumbai’s most coveted commercial district and a thriving base for corporate headquarters, consulates, cultural venues, high-end hotels, dining, luxury malls. The hotel will provide guests with exceptional connectivity to the core of the city’s business capital. Upon opening, it is expected to aattract a strong blend of international and domestic business delegates, MICE visitors and travellers across business and leisure categories.

As IHG’s largest and fastest-growing brand with over 3,200 hotels globally, Holiday Inn Express delivers more where it matters most—offering travellers simple, smart hospitality designed to balance efficiency with comfort. With the rollout of its Generation 5 design, the brand continues to elevate the essentials, combining flexible workspaces and refreshed aesthetics tailored for both business and leisure stays. 

Commenting on the announcement, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are pleased to partner with the Yb Group to introduce Holiday Inn Express to Mumbai’s BKC district, an address synonymous with global business. This signing marks an important milestone in strengthening our presence in India’s financial capital. With its exceptional location and strong year-round corporate demand, the hotel is poised to become a preferred choice for travellers seeking a modern, efficient, and comfortable stay experience in Mumbai.”

Ms. Tinaaz Wadia, Asset Manager - Real Estate Strategy for YB Group, commented:
“Our partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts to bring Holiday Inn Express to the periphery of BKC underscores our continued focus on building institutional-grade assets in core business districts. Backed by IHG’s global network, trusted brand strength, and robust systems, we are confident that Holiday Inn Express Mumbai BKC will set a new benchmark in the segment and elevate the stay experience for business and MICE travellers.”

The upcoming property will be IHG Hotels & Resorts’ third Holiday Inn Express under development in Mumbai, complementing projects underway in Andheri–Kurla Road and Powai. IHG also has a voco hotel slated to open in mid-2026, along with an operational portfolio that includes InterContinental Marine Drive Mumbai and Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport.

Suba Hotels Limited Opens Boutique Property Comfort Inn Emerald in Dapoli, Maharashtra

Dapoli, Maharashtra: Suba Hotels Limited has announced the opening of its latest boutique property, Comfort Inn Emerald, in the scenic coastal town of Dapoli. With existing operations in Mumbai, Pune, and Aurangabad, the group continues to expand its footprint across Maharashtra.

Commenting on the launch, Mansur Mehta, Managing Director of Suba Hotels Limited, said:

“Dapoli has emerged as one of the favourite destinations for travellers in Maharashtra. We intend to provide these discerning travellers with well-thought-out hospitality.”

Adding to this, Mubeen Mehta, CEO of Suba Hotels Limited, shared:

“Though we are headquartered in Maharashtra, we currently have a limited presence in the state. We plan to open several properties in key cities across Maharashtra to consolidate our position as one of the leading hospitality players in the region.”

A Blend of Coastal Charm and Contemporary Comfort

Nestled along the picturesque Dapoli–Harnai Road, Comfort Inn Emerald brings together Konkan’s natural beauty with modern hospitality. The boutique hotel is distinguished by its elegant Anglo-Gothic façade and offers well-appointed rooms across four categories, ensuring a warm and welcoming stay for guests.

Amenities and Experiences

• Eat Local: A multi-cuisine restaurant serving diverse flavours.

• Aqua Lounge Bar: A rooftop lounge with panoramic views.

• Leisure facilities designed to enhance relaxation and recreation.

The property’s location provides easy access to beaches, temples, and sightseeing attractions, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and cultural exploration.

Address

Comfort Inn Emerald
Dapoli–Harnai Road, Near KKV Information Center, Dapoli, Maharashtra

Marriott International Opens Its 200th Property In India, With The Westin Jaipur Kant Kalwar Resort & Spa

This milestone opening reinforces Marriott’s deep commitment to the dynamic hospitality landscape and long-term expansion strategy in the country

L-R: The Westin Jaipur Kant Kalwar Resort & Spa Façade, Lobby Lounge, Deluxe Room overlooking the Aravali range 

INDIA, December  2025: Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, today announced the opening of The Westin Jaipur Kant Kalwar Resort & Spa. The brand’s debut in one of India’s most sought-after leisure destinations marks a landmark opening as Marriott International’s 200th property in the country. The company continues to enhance access and relevance for travellers across India, including through the recently expanded Hindi-language website. The Westin Jaipur Kant Kalwar Resort & Spa stands as a reflection of Marriott’s deepening connection with the market, set across nine acres at the tranquil foothills of the majestic Aravali range, and expands Westin’s restorative, balance-driven approach to hospitality in the country. 

Commenting on this significant milestone for India, Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International said, “Celebrating the opening of our 200th property in India is a defining moment for Marriott International and a reflection of the continued trust our guests and owners place in our brands. Over the years, our growth in India has been shaped by hotels that offer enriching experiences through distinctive design, elevated culinary programs, and service excellence that create memorable journeys. This achievement is also a testament to the resilience of the Indian hospitality sector and the strong demand we continue to see across leisure and business segments. We continue to have confidence in our brands and our teams and remain steadfast in our commitment to advancing our growth through a strong pipeline of hotels.”

With 200 open properties in India across 18 distinct brands and a robust pipeline of nearly 150  hotels, Marriott continues to strengthen its presence in the country, spanning major metropolitan centres to emerging business and leisure destinations nationwide. India remains one of Marriott’s top three priority markets globally, driven by a rapidly expanding domestic travel base, rising affluence, and continued investment in tourism infrastructure. 

This milestone opening further reflects Marriott’s continued commitment to the region and its confidence in India’s dynamic hospitality landscape.  As part of the Marriott Bonvoy ecosystem connecting nearly 260 million members globally, travellers enjoy seamless access to a broad spectrum of experiences, rewards, and destinations across the country. Together, this momentum underscores the company’s commitment to expanding choice, deepening guest engagement, and shaping the future of hospitality in one of the world’s most dynamic travel markets.

The Westin Jaipur Kant Kalwar Resort & Spa brings the brand’s wellness-focused experience to life while embracing the artistry and cultural richness of Rajasthan. The resort features a harmonious blend of Balinese-inspired architecture and timeless Jaipur craftsmanship, creating an atmosphere of effortless calm.  From the moment of arrival, guests step into a realm of quiet beauty with serene water bodies, open courtyards, and the gentle fragrance of Westin’s signature White Tea scent easing them into a sense of renewal and restoration. Subtle design elements such as the finely crafted décra sheets and a statement chandelier in the lobby lounge inspired by the cosmic dance of Radha and Krishna add to the overall charm of the space

At the heart of the resort experience is Westin’s Pillars of Well-being - Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well - brought to life through integrated offerings designed to restore balance, spark vitality and deliver the brand’s promise of rest and renewal.

The resort comprises 135 elegantly appointed keys, including premium guestrooms, suites and private villas. Each villa is conceived as a personal sanctuary, complete with private garden spaces and exclusive plunge pools, offering a restorative retreat amid the peaceful Aravalli landscape. Guests can expect deep, rejuvenating rest on the iconic Heavenly® Bed, underscoring Westin’s Sleep Well promise.

For guests who prioritize fitness and routine, the resort provides extensive options to Move Well: a 24-hour WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, Sculpt & Flow Kits by Bala, and Recover & Recharge Kits by Hyperice, mapped jogging routes, a dedicated cricket turf and multi-purpose court configured for pickleball, badminton and basketball, enabling guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road. Culinary programming across four distinct venues embodies the Eat Well pillar. Harvest, the all-day restaurant, champions a farm to fork philosophy; Ira reinterprets Rajasthani soul cuisine with contemporary sensibilities; Haven Bar & Coffee Lounge serves as an ideal venue for relaxed conversations and tranquil evenings; and the Pool Bar offers water-side refreshments and expertly crafted cocktails. 

Heavenly Spa by Westin™ offers natural therapies and restorative treatments across five serene treatment rooms. Complementing the guest offering, the resort is equipped for social gatherings and celebrations with flexible meeting spaces, elegant ballrooms and sprawling lawns ideal for corporate events and destination weddings. Families are welcome at the Westin Family Kids’ Club, which provides curated activities for younger guests. Together, these elements create an environment that invites renewal, clarity and calm - helping guests reset, reconnect and leave feeling renewed.

Additionally, the resort offers curated activities, such as the Rangilo Aangan evening tea and regional art performances, ensuring a deep connection with the local environment and culture, and provides the perfect abode for exploring nearby majestic attractions like the Amer and Nahargarh Forts or simply seeking a restorative pause on-site. 

 “We are excited to welcome guests to discover Jaipur through the Westin lens, where cultural richness pairs seamlessly with elevated comfort and balance,” said Kamaljit Singh, General Manager, The Westin Jaipur Kant Kalwar Resort & Spa. “Whether it’s unwinding with our signature wellness offerings, exploring the serene Aravalli surroundings, or enjoying deeply rooted regional flavours, every touchpoint has been designed to create a sense of clarity, calm, and connection.”

SKÅL INTERNATIONAL COIMBATORE WINS BID TO HOST SKÅL INTERNATIONAL INDIA NATIONAL CONGRESS 2026

Sanjeev Mehra

Ramesh Chandrakumar

December 2025: Skål International India is pleased to announce that Skål International Coimbatore has been selected to host the Skål International India National Congress (SINC) 2026, following the decision taken by the National Board of Skål International India. The selection comes after a competitive bidding process involving Skål International Jaipur, Skål International Jammu & Kashmir, and Skål International Coimbatore, with each club presenting strong and well-structured proposals.

After careful evaluation, the National Board voted in favour of Skål International Coimbatore, recognising its holistic, B2B-led, value-for-money presentation, destination readiness, and the club’s sustained contribution to strengthening industry engagement at the local and national levels. The final dates of SINC 2026 will be announced soon keeping important annual dates of national importance in consideration.

Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India, said: “We congratulate Skål International Coimbatore on winning the bid to host the Skål International India National Congress 2026. Skål International India has grown into a strong and influential voice within the global Skål movement, and our national congresses now serve as platforms for leadership, collaboration, and strategic exchange. We look forward to working closely with the host club to deliver a super successful and memorable Congress in 2026.”

Ramesh Chandrakumar, President, Skål International Coimbatore, added: “We sincerely thank the Skål International India National Board for entrusting us with this prestigious responsibility. Hosting the National Congress is both an honour and a responsibility. Our team is fully committed to delivering an outstanding Congress that reflects the true spirit of Skål—friendship, professionalism, inclusivity, and responsible tourism.”

Skål International India today stands among the most dynamic and influential national organisations within the global Skål movement, with 20 active clubs across the country and several more in advanced stages of formation. India’s rapidly expanding tourism economy — driven by strong domestic demand, rising outbound travel, and a steady recovery in inbound tourism — has positioned Skål International India as a critical connector of tourism decision-makers across the value chain.

Indian Skålleagues represent leadership across travel trade, hospitality, aviation, destination management, travel technology, media, and allied sectors, making Skål International India a powerful B2B platform and a respected voice in industry dialogue. The organisation’s consistent focus on transparent governance, sustainability, youth engagement, and global collaboration has strengthened India’s standing within Skål worldwide.

The SINC 2025 in Mumbai marked a defining moment, setting new benchmarks in participation, organisational excellence, sustainability practices, and leadership vision. Building on this strong foundation, SINC 2026 is widely anticipated as a landmark event on the national and global tourism calendar.

Coimbatore offers a distinctive blend of industry, culture, wellness, spirituality, and nature, making it an ideal host city for a congress of this scale and significance. Known as one of South India’s most enterprising and well-connected cities, Coimbatore combines strong infrastructure with experiential richness.

As a gateway to the Western Ghats, the city connects seamlessly to destinations such as Ooty, Coonoor, and Valparai, offering scenic landscapes, plantation trails, trekking routes, and nature-based tourism experiences. The destination is further enriched by diverse hospitality offerings, vibrant local markets, unique shopping experiences, and the authentic flavours of Kongunadu cuisine, creating an engaging backdrop for business, networking, and cultural exchange.

Skål International Coimbatore has emerged as one of India’s most proactive and industry-integrated Skål clubs, hosting a steady calendar of B2B interactions, professional networking events, and socially responsible initiatives. The club’s sustained engagement with tourism stakeholders at the regional level has strengthened Skål’s relevance and visibility within the local industry.

The National Board acknowledged the club’s clarity of vision, operational preparedness, destination positioning, and strong member involvement as key strengths in awarding the hosting rights. Skål International Coimbatore’s recent recognition for excellence in CSR further reinforced confidence in its ability to deliver a Congress that reflects Skål’s core values.

With Skål International India continuing to expand its footprint and influence, the Skål International India National Congress 2026 in Coimbatore is expected to be more than a national gathering. It will serve as a strategic platform for tourism leaders, decision-makers, and industry influencers, fostering dialogue on emerging trends, sustainability, innovation, and collaborative growth.

Backed by a strong national organisation, an experienced host club, and a destination that balances business efficiency with experiential appeal, SINC 2026 is poised to become a defining milestone for Skål International India and a globally relevant event in the tourism landscape.

Suba Hotels Limited Opens Comfort Inn Vindhyan, Vindhyachal, Uttar Pradesh

Suba Hotels Limited has further strengthened its footprint in Uttar Pradesh with the opening of Comfort Inn Vindhyan in Vindhyachal, Mirzapur. This is the company’s second property in the city and its 17th operational property in the state. Conveniently located in the heart of this historic and pilgrimage destination, the hotel offers premium service, top-tier amenities, and timeless hospitality.

Commenting on the launch, Mansur Mehta, Managing Director of Suba Hotels Limited, said, “The launch of Comfort Inn Vindhyan consolidates our position as one of the leading hospitality brands in the country. We have been making swift progress after our very successful IPO last month.” It reaffirms Suba Hotels’ commitment to expanding quality hospitality across key religious and cultural destinations in India, the MD added.
The CEO of the company, Mubeen Mehta, added, “Comfort is a very popular brand within the Choice portfolio. Patrons have embraced this brand very positively, and this is the 30th property we have opened under the Comfort brand.”


Comfort Inn Vindhyan features 42 well-appointed rooms. The rooms are modern, sleek, and equipped with all essential facilities. The hotel is an ideal destination for spiritual seekers, corporate travelers, and families looking for a comfortable and premium stay in the sacred city of Vindhyachal. It is located just a minute away from the Vindhyavasini Temple and other major temples, as well as being close to the Ganga ghat.
The hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant, Vindhyan Chahel Pahel, offers delectable dishes from various states of India. The property also boasts a rooftop banqueting facility with panoramic views of the temple town.

In addition to being a spiritual destination, Vindhyachal is also known for its scenic waterfalls, including Tanda, Khursiya, and Kharania, among others.
Vindhyachal Railway Station: 0.5 km away
Address:
Comfort Inn Vindhyan, Bangali ka Chauraha, Near Vindhyavasini Temple,
Vindhyachal, Mirzapur – 231307, Uttar Pradesh. 8381857774

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Announces the Launch of The Fern Residency Bengaluru, Seshadripuram, Series by Marriott

Mumbai, December 2025: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, announces the launch of its newest property in Karnataka- The Fern Residency Bengaluru, Seshadripuram, Series by Marriott, located in one of Bengaluru’s most dynamic neighbourhoods, known for its blend of heritage landmarks, educational institutions and proximity to the city's thriving business and cultural districts. With this opening, the company strengthens its footprint in South India, increasing its regional portfolio there to 13 properties, both operational and upcoming.

Mr. Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, shared, “Bengaluru continues to evolve as a multi-faceted hub for technology, entrepreneurship and culture, which has significantly reshaped guest expectations and hospitality trends. The launch of this hotel strengthens our presence in a high-potential market where demand for quality midscale accommodation remains consistently strong. Our focus is to complement the city’s growth by creating properties that align operational efficiency with sustainability and thoughtful design.”

The hotel features 79 well-appointed rooms and suites, with each accommodation designed to offer a blend of comfort and functionality with a wide range of amenities. Culinary offerings at the hotel include Revival, the all-day multi-cuisine restaurant that serves a diverse selection of local and global dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A special 24x7 in-room dining menu is also available for guests seeking convenience and privacy.

The hotel is equipped with versatile event and meeting spaces designed to accommodate a wide range of corporate and social gatherings. The three banquet halls- Chambers 01, Chambers 02 and the Grand Ballroom offer expansive indoor venues suitable for receptions, conferences, workshops and intimate celebrations. The Board Room provides an ideal setting for corporate meetings and small group discussions. These facilities are supported by modern audio-visual equipment and professional event services. Guests can also enjoy access to a well-equipped gymnasium that supports a balanced and active stay. As a Series by Marriott hotel, all guests at the hotel will enjoy all the benefits of Marriott’s award-winning Bonvoy loyalty program

Conveniently located 32 km from Kempegowda International Airport, 2.2 km from Majestic Railway Station and 2.3 km from Majestic Bus Stand, the hotel offers seamless accessibility to major commercial districts, cultural landmarks and key transit points. Whether for business travel, family stays or events, The Fern Residency Bengaluru, Seshadripuram, Series by Marriott delivers an experience that is contemporary, comfortable and aligned with The Fern’s commitment to responsible hospitality.

Monday Hotels Launches Monday Premium, Madhapur; Marks Fourth Property in Hyderabad

Monday Hotels, a new-age hospitality brand catering to modern business and leisure travelers, today announced the launch of Monday Premium, Madhapur, marking its fourth hotel in Hyderabad and strengthening its footprint in one of India’s fastest-growing urban markets.

Located in Madhapur, at the heart of Hyderabad’s HITECH City, the new property benefits from proximity to major IT hubs such as Deloitte, Accenture, Knowledge City, and Mindspace, as well as prominent corporate and social event venues including HICC, T-Hub, and Meydan Expo Centre. The hotel is also surrounded by upscale residential neighborhoods and a vibrant social and lifestyle ecosystem, making it well-suited for corporate and contemporary travelers.

Monday Premium, Madhapur features thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, modern business facilities aligned with the needs of today’s professionals, bespoke dining experiences, and personalized service that reflects the brand’s customer-first philosophy.

Commenting on the launch, Mitesh Kadam, Co-Founder, Monday Hotels, said, “The launch of Monday Premium in Madhapur represents an important milestone for us in Hyderabad. As our fourth property in the city, it underscores our commitment to offering consistently high-quality hospitality experiences tailored to the modern business traveler.”

Sapaad Forays into India, Strengthening Digital Infrastructure for the Country’s Organised F&B Sector

Bootstrapped SaaS company introduces India-focused pricing; targets 8–10% share of India’s organised restaurant technology market by 2030

New Delhi, India, December, 2025: Sapaad, a bootstrapped, Make-in-India cloud-based restaurant technology company with a strong global footprint, today announced its formal entry into the Indian market. With several thousand customers across more than 40 countries, Sapaad brings over a decade of global operating experience to India at a time when the country’s food services sector is accelerating its adoption of digital, data-led operating models.

As part of its India strategy, Sapaad is focused on the organised and technology-ready segment of the restaurant market, estimated at 5–6 lakh outlets nationwide. This segment includes organised, multi-outlet and growth-oriented F&B brands such as QSR chains, franchise-led brands, cafés and bakeries, cloud kitchen operators and mid-sized restaurant groups. By concentrating on this defined market, Sapaad expects to build a scalable footprint and aims to serve 8–10% of this segment by 2030, translating into a potential nationwide presence across approximately 50,000 restaurant outlets.

For India, the company has introduced localised pricing with monthly subscriptions ranging from INR 5,999 to INR 12,999 per outlet, while offering the same enterprise-grade platform used by customers globally. Sapaad also offers a hybrid pricing model that combines software subscriptions with integrated fintech payments, enabling operators to manage total operating costs through blended payment processing fees. Deployment and onboarding are offered as paid services, reinforcing the company’s focus on implementation quality and long-term customer success. The platform follows a modular pricing approach, allowing restaurants to begin with core capabilities and progressively adopt advanced modules such as inventory automation, kitchen systems, analytics and AI as their operations scale.

Built on a cloud-first architecture, Sapaad’s platform eliminates hardware dependency, delivers high uptime and supports complex, multi-format restaurant operations. Its integrated suite includes cloud-native POS, online ordering, self-ordering kiosks, QR ordering, kitchen display systems, delivery management, CRM, recipe and inventory management, loyalty programmes, analytics and cloud-based printing, all delivered through a unified operational platform.

Announcing the India entry, Vishnu Vardhan Madabhushi, Founder & CEO, Sapaad, said, “India’s restaurant industry is moving beyond basic digitisation towards systems that can support scale, consistency and data-driven decision-making. While the country has an estimated 10–12 million food outlets, the organised, technology-ready segment presents a clear opportunity for platforms built for operational depth rather than surface-level automation. Having built Sapaad as a bootstrapped company over the last decade, our focus has been on dependable, real-world technology. India is a natural next phase of our journey, and we are committed to building for the long term.”

Commenting on the company’s product and engineering approach, Anup Anthony, Co-Founder & CTO, Sapaad, said, “Sapaad has been engineered with performance, reliability and scale at its core. Beyond transactional systems, the platform is designed to convert operational data into actionable intelligence, enabling restaurants to improve control, forecasting and decision-making as they grow.”

Sapaad has developed AI-led capabilities across its platform, including Ask Vantage, a conversational analytics layer that enables operators to query business performance in real time, an AI-driven promotion engine, and predictive menu engineering tools that help optimise pricing, demand and margins. These capabilities are designed to move restaurants from static reporting to proactive, data-led operational decisions. The platform is integrated with major Indian fintech payment aggregators, enabling unified payments and operations, real-time order and settlement reconciliation, reduced manual intervention and improved cost management.

With the global food technology market valued at approximately USD 205 billion in 2024 and projected to grow significantly over the next decade, Asia-Pacific accounts for over 30% of this growth, underscoring the strategic importance of markets such as India. Globally, Sapaad powers a wide range of foodservice businesses including boutique and Michelin-star restaurants, bakeries and dessert chains, large Middle Eastern restaurant groups, ice-cream chains, café chains, QSR operators, franchise networks, cloud kitchens and delivery-first concepts, highlighting the platform’s versatility and enterprise-grade reliability across formats.

Ingredient Ideology | Christmas Special Baked Treats By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef

Cupcakes are usually defined as a miniature version of a cake baked in a cup shaped mould and happens to be a delicacy for most of us among all age groups for its pleasant appearance & presentation. Cupcakes gained popularity close to 1900s in the united states and since then their varied creations have been increasing tremendously. In Britain cupcakes are called as fairy cakes since they use a lighter glaze icing as compared to the heavy frostings used by the American bakers. The term cupcake was justified to its name by the fact that it was prepared using measurements by the cups and baked as a cup full too. Cupcakes have swept the culinary world since the last few years and it’s no wonder why, with its flavors ranging from the classic vanilla to deliciously sweet caramel and butterscotch, to oddly savoury jalapeno-cheddar variety, there truly is a cupcake for everyone! Wishing all our readers Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2023.

Recipe-1] CHOCO- EXOTICA CUPCAKES

Ingredients

3/4th cup refined flour

½ cup cocoa powder

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

2 eggs

1 and a half tsp vanilla essence

¼ tsp salt

¼ cup butter

1 cup grain sugar

½ cup milk.

For the chocolate butter cream topping:

1 cup unsalted butter

3 tbsp. Milk or heavy cream

1 and a half cups sugar

1 pinch of salt

2 tsp vanilla essence

½ cup cocoa powder

Method:

Pre-heat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. in a mixing bowl combine together the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, sieve them altogether and keep aside. In a separate bowl, combine together the eggs, sugar, butter and vanilla essence and whisk them up well with a hand blender. Add the dry ingredients a little at a time into the wet ingredients and fold them gently add in the milk gradually to get a desired dropping consistency. Grease and line the cupcake moulds and pour the prepared mixture into each of the compartments fill them 3/4th to the top in each mould and set them for baking for 15- 20 mins or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center upon checking. Allow to cool the cupcakes for 30 mins on a cooling rack and then decorate them as desired with chocolate cream/butter cream/ fresh cream etc. to prepare basic chocolate butter cream- using a dry clean stainless steel bowl beat the unsalted butter until creamy in texture for about 2 mins, add in sugar, cocoa powder, salt, vanilla essence and continue beating on a low speed for around a minute adjust the texture with cream/milk and cocoa powder if needed.

Recipe-2] VEGAN STYLE VANILLA CUPCAKES

Ingredients

1 cup soy milk or any other dairy free milk like almond milk etc

1 and a half cup refined flour

½ cup vegan butter

3/4th cup grain sugar

1 tsp vanilla essence

1 and a half tsp baking powder

1 tbsp. lime juice / white vinegar

1 pinch of salt.

For the vegan vanilla frosting on the cupcakes:

2 and a half cups sugar

½ cup vegan butter

½ tsp vanilla essence

1 tsp. soya milk/ dairy free milk.

Method:

Pre-heat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. grease and line a cupcake mould. Sieve the flour with baking powder and salt and keep aside. In a mixing bowl combine together the soy milk with lime juice/vinegar and keep it aside for 3-4 mins and then add in the sugar, butter, vanilla essence and whisk them all up using an electric beater until the sugar has dissolved completely. Now slowly fold in the dry ingredients and gently mix them all in to a dropping consistency. Pour the prepared cupcake mixture into the moulds do not fill completely and place them for baking for 15-18 mins or until the toothpick comes out clean, allow to cool for 15-20 minutes before going ahead with the frosting. To prepare the frosting mixture beat the vegan butter with an electric beater until light and fluffy add in the sugar little by little, add in the vanilla essence and the dairy free milk and mix well, spoon the mixture into a frosting or icing bag and decorate the cupcakes and serve.

Recipe-3] CAFÉ WALNUT CUPCAKES

Ingredients

3 eggs

1 cup flour

1 cup butter

1 pinch of salt

½ tsp baking powder

3/4th cup brown sugar

2 tsp coffee powder

100 gms/ ½ cup chopped walnuts

For the coffee butter cream frosting:

1 and a half cup icing sugar

¾ cup butter

1 tsp coffee

For decorating the cupcakes walnuts as desired.

Method:

Pre-heat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. grease and line up the cupcake moulds and keep them ready. Dissolve 2 tsp coffee powder with 1 tbsp. boiling water and prepare a coffee decoction, mix well allow to cool completely. Sieve the flour with a pinch of salt and baking powder and keep aside. In a mixing bowl cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, add in the beaten eggs. Now add in the dry ingredients little at a time and slowly fold them in using a spatula. Add in the coffee mixture and beat once again until all is well combined, add in a few sliced walnuts and fold them in as well. Now spoon up the cupcake mixture and place them into the lined up moulds and place them for baking around 18-20 mins, check the center with a toothpick and once it comes out clean, remove the cupcakes and allow them to cool on a wire rack for around 30 mins. To prepare the butter cream, dissolve the coffee powder the same way like above and keep aside, cool completely. In a mixing bowl cream the butter until light and creamy in texture add in the icing sugar gradually with a low speed on your hand blender and mix well for 3-4 mins until fluffy and smooth add in the dissolved coffee and continue whipping for another couple of minutes. Pipe this buttercream onto the cooled cupcakes and decorate with a few more walnuts and serve with a nice cuppa coffee!

Recipe-4] DIVINE MASALA CUPCAKES

Ingredients

1 egg

1 and a half cup flour/maida

½ cup butter

1 cup grain sugar

½ tsp vanilla essence

1 and half tsp baking powder

Pinch of salt

¼ cup milk

For the masala mix as below or use 1 tsp readymade chai masala.

½ tsp ginger powder

¼ tsp cinnamon powder

¼ tsp cardamom and clove powder mix.

For the masala cupcake frosting:

1 cup butter

2 cups icing sugar

3-4 tbsp. milk

1 tsp vanilla essence

Dusting of the spice mix on top

Method:

 Pre-heat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. grease the cupcake moulds and keep aside. Prepare the spice mix and keep aside. Sieve the flour with pinch of salt, baking powder and the spice mix and keep all dry ingredients aside. In a bowl cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric beater. Beat in the egg and vanilla essence, add in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture carefully and mix it all well add in the milk gradually and get a desired dropping texture for the cupcake mixture. Portion the mixture into the prepared cupcake moulds and allow to bake for 18-20 mins, using a toothpick check in the center of the cupcakes once it comes out clean, remove the cupcakes and allow them to cool for 20 mins. For the frosting in a bowl beat up the butter until light and add in the sugar and vanilla essence add in milk to achieve the desired consistency enabling smooth piping on the cupcakes. Decorate the cupcakes with the frosting and sprinkle a little of the spice mix and serve them with a nice cuppa chai!

Recipe-5] CARROT CUPCAKES WITH CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

Ingredients:

1 and a half cup flour/maida

2 eggs

1 and a half cup grated carrots

1 cup grain sugar

½ cup butter

 1 pinch of salt

¼ tsp baking powder

1 tsp vanilla essence

2 tbsp. chopped raisins

¼ tsp cinnamon powder.

For the cream cheese frosting:

1 cup cream cheese

½ cup butter

2 cups powder sugar

1 tsp vanilla essence

1 pinch of salt

Method:

Pre-heat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. grease and line up the cupcake mould. Sieve the flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon powder and keep aside. In a bowl beat together the butter, sugar, vanilla essence and whisk in the eggs one at a time and beat well. Now add in the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients a little at a time and ensure the cupcake mixture is smooth upon mixing, also add in the carrots and raisins and mix them well. Pour this prepared cupcake mixture into the lined cupcake moulds and bake for 15-18 mins and allow to cool before frosting. To prepare the cream cheese frosting in a mixing bowl beat the cream cheese, butter, vanilla essence and salt using a medium speed of an electric hand blender until light and creamy add sugar gradually and continue beating. Transfer the frosting into a piping bag and decorate the cupcakes and serve them.

Ahuja Residency Expands Portfolio with Three New Hotels Across Gurugram

Ahuja Residency has expanded its portfolio with the addition of three new hotels in Gurugram, strengthening its presence in one of India’s most important corporate and lifestyle hubs. The expansion reflects the brand’s strategy to cater to the growing demand for boutique-style accommodations that strike a balance between comfort, convenience, and affordability.

In Gurugram, HAYs AIR at Mayfield Garden introduces a boutique luxury experience inspired by wellness, sustainability, and simplicity. The hotel features elegant interiors, open-terrace dining, thoughtfully designed rooms, and two intimate plunge pools one on the terrace and another on the fitness floor. With a strong emphasis on calm, contemporary living, HAYs AIR also houses Café Breeze, offering a refined dining experience for its guests.

The AR Suites property at JMD, Sohna Road, offers 33 modern suites with a minimalist design, ideal for business and extended-stay guests. The property features Café Breeze, along with excellent connectivity to Gurugram’s commercial and retail hubs. With functional living spaces, dependable service, and a strategic location, it delivers practical comfort suited to today’s corporate traveller.

Located near Golf Course Road, Ahuja Residency GCR is a 21-room premium business hotel set amidst landscaped gardens and bamboo groves. Offering a peaceful yet well-connected stay environment, the hotel features meeting facilities, a patio garden, and its own Café Breeze, catering to the needs of corporate guests seeking convenience and tranquillity.

“At Ahuja Residency, our mission has always been to create spaces that people feel genuinely connected to,” said Jaideep Ahuja, Managing Director & CEO, Ahuja Residency. “These three new properties significantly expand and strengthen our portfolio in Gurugram. Each hotel reflects our commitment to comfort, authenticity, and consistent service while enriching the diverse categories we already operate in, from boutique luxury to premium suites to business hospitality.”

Gen Z lead the travel wave in 2025 with 650% growth in travel bookings

Gen Z lead the travel wave in 2025 with 650% growth in travel bookings - enough to crowd every café, co-working space, and sunset spot across India

National, December 2025: If there’s one thing that defined travel in 2025, it was the shift towards smarter, value-led choices without compromising on fun. Cleartrip Unpacked 2025* year-end travel report reveals that travellers leaned heavily into affordable stays, mobile-first bookings, and flexible plans.

Flavour of the Year: Affordability, Gen Z and Value

At the heart of this year’s shift was Gen Z. With a staggering 650% growth in travel bookings, they didn’t just travel more but travelled differently. Their trips were spontaneous, vibe-driven, and unapologetically experience-first. From skyline selfies in Dubai to street food crawls in Kuala Lumpur and late nights in Bangkok, these destinations emerged as the most “bussin’” spots of the year. Millennials, meanwhile, weren’t far behind. Borrowing cues from Gen Z’s mobile habits 65% of bookings this year were made on the Cleartrip phone app. Also, over 65% of the bookings were made for budget and mid range hotels from a wide catalogue of affordable and value stays on Cleartrip.

A Dive into How India Travelled

2025 was also the year Indians expanded their travel map. Vietnam emerged as the breakout international destination, clocking a 133% jump in traffic. Closer home, spiritual and nature-led travel continued to rise, with Varanasi and the Andaman Islands seeing a steady 20% growth in interest.

Uttar Pradesh** was the most visited in 2025, with a rise in stay searches for Prayagraj (3x) and Bareilly (4x). Solo travel gained serious momentum, with Delhi and Bengaluru leading the pack. Delhi saw strong movement towards Himachal Pradesh, Jaipur and Agra, while Bengaluru saw Coorg, Ooty and Kodaikanal. The two work hubs anchored by tech parks and business travel, also doubled as leisure gateways.

Phuket, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok stood out as the most popular international destinations. A major driver of international confidence was Cleartrip’s Visa Rejection Cover. At the same time, niche travel trends quietly picked up steam. When travellers wanted ‘Calm over Kaam,’ they chose Calmcations in Rishikesh, Coorg and Alleppey. Those blending work with wanderlust headed to Goa, Pondicherry and Darjeeling for Workations. And for anyone craving a break from screens, Spiti, the Andamans and Ladakh became go-to digital detox escapes. Adventure Junkies, meanwhile, flocked to Bir Billing, Lakshadweep and Auli.

Quirky, Unhinged Travellers and the Chaos They Packed Along the Way

If the numbers from 2025 prove anything, it’s that Indian travellers truly did things their own way. Some planned nearly a year in advance by booking stays 361 days ahead in Chikkamagaluru and 350 days ahead in Ribandar, Goa. Others preferred the thrill of the moment, with 38 lakh flight bookings made within 48 hours of departure.

Late-night planners were out in full force too. Around 3 lakh people booked flights between 3 and 4 AM - enough to fill 353 Airbus A380s, the world’s largest commercial aircraft. Long stays became a thing, with one traveller booking a 30-day hotel stay in Bengaluru and another spending 29 days straight in Kolkata.

Then came the extremes. The cheapest flight of the year cost ₹0, while the most affordable hotel night was just ₹48. This is proof that deal-hunting is an art form. On the other end, travellers weren’t shy about splurging either; ₹2.4 lakh for a Delhi–Guwahati flight, ₹4.43 lakh for Paris–Mumbai, and a ₹4.41 lakh hotel stay in the Maldives (we’re guessing a forgotten anniversary was involved). Someone even spent ₹65,000 just on excess baggage flying from Ghaziabad to Bengaluru.

Taken together, 2025 was a year where India travelled with personality. They were spontaneous yet thoughtful, budget-aware yet indulgent, and always ready to chase the next experience. 2026 is going to be challenging and exciting, and we cannot wait!

Sanraj Group invests in Revelry Distillery as Vanaha emerges among the most awarded new gins globally

December 2025: SanRaj Group proudly announces an investment in Revelry Distillery the Goa-based premium craft spirits company by Vaniitha & Navvin Jaiin, best known for its flagship product, Vanaha Gin.

Nestled in the lush forests of Sattari, Revelry Distillery is India’s first purpose-built craft spirits distillery. It is a pioneering, state-of-the-art, hi-tech facility that marries artisanal craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation. Vanaha Gin, crafted with 24 handpicked botanicals from across India using a pioneering five-step distillation process combining Copper Pot Distillation, Vapor Infusion, and Cold Vacuum Distillation — a first for an Indian gin.

Since its launch in May this year, Vanaha Artisanal Forest Gin has achieved significant international acclaim - led by the highest honour, a Master Medal, at The Spirits Business Global Gin Masters, followed by Gold for Design and Packaging at The Spirits Business Global Spirits Design Masters. It has also won accolades at the IWSC and Global Wine & Spirits Awards Asia, and was the only gin brand worldwide shortlisted this year as a finalist for Innovation in Production at The Spirits Business Awards. In a remarkably short time, Vanaha stands among India’s most globally awarded new spirits brands.

SanRaj Group has been founded by Sandip Gupta and Rajdip Gupta - entrepreneurs known for building and scaling Route Mobile into one of India’s most successful listed technology companies. Their investment in Revelry marks their entry into premium craft spirits, backing promoters with the potential to build globally admired Indian brands.

The partnership reflects a strong alignment – SanRaj Group approach to scaling category defining businesses complements Revelry’s ambition to build globally relevant Indian craft spirits. The investment fuels Revelry’s next phase of growth, expanding production, strengthening distribution, accelerating brand‑building, and powering R&D for future innovations. It also supports expansion into key Indian states and international markets.

Commenting on this investment, Rajdip Gupta said: “At SanRaj, we partner with founders who redefine categories. With Revelry, we see the foundations of a spirits house capable of building iconic Indian brands with global appeal. Vanaha’s global accolades reflects the strength of the team’s vision and execution.”

Sandip Gupta added: “Revelry embodies the ambition we believe in - clarity of vision, innovation led thinking, and the capability to scale. Vanaha’s rapid recognition across global juries strengthens our conviction in the company’s potential to build world class Indian spirits.”

Vanitha Jaiin, Founder, Revelry Distillery is respected alcobev strategist, industry expert and an international wine & spirits judge. Her credentials reinforce the depth of expertise she brings to Revelry’s product vision and category leadership. Her husband Navvin Jaiin is a distinguished business leader with over two decades of experience in BFSI and scaling high-growth ventures. Navvin adds strength in strategy, operations, and distribution. Together, they combine visionary creativity with executional excellence, building Revelry into one of India’s most ambitious craft spirits ventures.

Vaniitha Jaiin says “Revelry was created with a bold ambition to craft world class spirits rooted in India. Vanaha’s global awards validate our product philosophy and innovation first approach. This partnership gives us the ability to scale faster, expand our innovation pipeline, and take Indian craft excellence to global markets.”

Navvin Jaiin, Co-Founder of Revelry Distillery, said: “Beyond capital, what excites us about SanRaj is their belief in building an enduring spirits house, not just products. Together, we can strengthen Revelry’s foundation, expand distribution, and create the scale needed to take multiple Indian spirits brands global.”

India’s premium craft spirits category is expanding rapidly as consumers seek authenticity, innovation, and global quality products with an Indian soul. With Vanaha as its first expression, Revelry is poised to build a portfolio that stands alongside the world’s finest while staying true to its origins.

“Where Christmas Looks Like a Hallmark Movie—Snow Included’’ (A Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Special)

There’s Christmas and then there’s a white Christmas.
The kind the movies promised us: snowflakes swirling like confetti, storybook markets glowing under fairy lights, the smell of mulled wine drifting across cobbled squares. And this year, Indians aren’t just dreaming of it, they're booking it.

Pickyourtrail data shows a rising appetite for winter-wonderland escapes (7-8%), with travellers trading beach breaks for hot chocolate weather, twinkling town squares, and the world’s most iconic Christmas markets.

So, if your festive spirit loves drama, reindeer energy, and the kind of cold that makes every photograph editorial, these five Pickyourtrail-approved white-Christmas escapes are your golden ticket to the season’s most magical corner of the world.

1. Vienna, Austria — A Christmas Waltz in Real Time

Vienna doesn’t just celebrate Christmas, it curates it. Think imperial architecture dusted with snow, orchestras tuning up for holiday season concerts, and the kind of Christmas markets that feel lifted straight out of folklore.

Don’t Miss:
• Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt — oversized ornaments, gingerbread stalls, and Europe’s prettiest skating rink.
• Schönbrunn Palace Market — handmade crafts worthy of heirloom status.
• Hot Kaiserschmarrn (Austrian shredded pancakes) by lantern light.

Why It’s a Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Pick:
Easy connections via Dubai/Doha, a calendar full of winter concerts, and markets that stay open till New Year’s week. Add Vienna’s polished charm and it becomes the “Paris of winter”  minus the chaos.

(We have seen a high rise on Vienna bookings 5-7% from India)

2. Lucerne, Switzerland  Snow. Scenery. Swiss Perfection.

If there’s a place that makes winter feel cinematic, it’s Lucerne. The Chapel Bridge framed by snowy rooftops, Lake Lucerne mirroring alpine peaks, and Christmas markets glowing against the crisp Swiss air it’s the holiday fantasy done right.

Between snowy day trips up Pilatus or Rigi, Lucerne turns into a real-life snow globe  with powdery slopes, panoramic Alpine views, and Christmas concerts at KKL that feel almost cinematic. And when you drift through Old Town with a molten raclette plate in hand, the whole place feels like Switzerland’s answer to a holiday fairy tale.

Why It’s a Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Pick:
Switzerland is India’s winter obsession. Pickyourtrail sees high demand for Lucerne + Interlaken combos every December. Trains run like clockwork, snow is guaranteed, and the experience is pure-feeling luxury.

3. Prague, Czech Republic  -Where Fairytales Freeze Over Beautifully

Prague in December is a mood: gothic towers, cobblestone streets, and a Christmas market that’s regularly ranked among the world’s best. Add powdery snow and you get Europe’s most photogenic holiday city.

Prague’s winter spell is strongest in Old Town Square, where the Christmas market fills the air with mulled wine, chimney cakes, and live carols drifting between glowing wooden stalls. Sunrise on Charles Bridge light snow settling over statues and spires feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting, while nightfall turns the castle district molten gold. It’s the kind of winter magic that disappears the moment January arrives, which is exactly why travellers rush to catch Prague at its frost-kissed best.

Why It’s a Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Pick:

Prague delivers luxury-on-a-budget, making it a favourite for families and first-time Europe trips. 

4. Helsinki, Finland — A Shortcut to Santa’s Home

Finland is for travellers who want their Christmas with a dash of Nordic whimsy. Helsinki glitters under its winter coat, and Lapland’s Santa Village is just a flight away.

Helsinki’s festive charm starts at the iconic Tuomaan Markkinat, the city’s beloved Christmas Market where wooden stalls brim with Nordic crafts, spiced glögi, and winter-warm delicacies. Many travellers use the city as a stylish launchpad for a day trip to Rovaniemi, home of Santa Claus Village, a place where snow-dusted pines, reindeer trails, and childhood nostalgia come together effortlessly. And then there’s the Finnish sauna tradition, the ultimate winter reset; stepping from a steaming cedar room into crisp Arctic air feels like the kind of ritual only December can justify.

 Why It’s a Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Pick:

December is peak Northern Lights season  Pickyourtrail travellers increasingly pair Helsinki with Lapland (30 % growth in aurora packages). It’s an Arctic fantasy but surprisingly accessible via overnight hops.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark — Christmas, But Make It Hygge

Copenhagen is cosy like no other city on the planet. Tivoli Gardens turns into a glittering wonderland, cafés serve hot chocolate that feels like a weighted blanket for the soul, and the entire city glows in amber tones.

Copenhagen wears Christmas like couture. Tivoli Gardens turns into a glitter-drenched fantasy world, where every corner feels like a scene you’ll want to save forever. Down by the harbour, Nyhavn glows under strings of fairy lights, making even a simple stroll feel festive. And when the cold begins to nip, nothing beats warming up with hot æbleskiver and a cup of gløgg from a traditional stall comfort disguised as dessert. 

It’s the kind of December magic that refuses to be recreated anywhere else.

Why It’s a Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Pick:
Scandinavia is trending with affluent urban travellers Pickyourtrail data shows a spike in Nordic winter requests (8%). Copenhagen blends accessibility with a refined winter aesthetic that feels fashion editorial-worthy.

Some holidays come and go.

A white Christmas stays  in photographs, in retellings, in that strange shimmer of nostalgia only snow can create.

And this year, those snow-drenched squares and fairy-lit markets aren’t just for movie sets. They’re within reach and Indians are claiming them in record numbers which is 30%. Of them wanting to experience a white christmas. 

With Pickyourtrail curating the season’s most magical itineraries from Vienna’s orchestral glow to Finland’s aurora nights, travellers aren’t just flying out; they’re stepping into the December they’ve always wanted.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to trade noisy parties for snowflakes, to swap mall lights for Christmas markets, to say “this year, I did something different”  this is it. Because snowfall waits for no one, and the best December stories are the ones you don’t postpone.

Royal Orchid Hotels Expands Foothold in North India with New Signing in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Bengaluru, December, 2025: Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL), one of India's fastest-growing hospitality chains, today announced the signing of a new property in Rishikesh, the spiritual and adventure capital of the world. The new hotel, set to be operated under a management agreement, marks a strategic entry into the vibrant, high-growth tourism market of Uttarakhand, further reinforcing ROHL's asset-light expansion model.

The 36-key property is strategically located in Tapovan, Rishikesh, offering guests easy access to the banks of the River Ganga, famous ashrams, and the region’s adventure sports hubs. Designed to cater to both spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts, the hotel will feature well-appointed rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, banquet and conference facilities ideal for destination weddings and corporate retreats, and essential wellness amenities like a spa and a fitness center. Its location will provide a picturesque base for exploring landmark sites like the Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula.

Speaking on the strategic signing, Mr. Chander K. Baljee, Chairman & Managing Director said, “Rishikesh holds unparalleled importance in India’s tourism landscape, blending spiritual heritage with adrenaline-pumping activities. This signing perfectly aligns with our vision to establish a strong presence in culturally significant destinations. We are confident that this new property will set a benchmark for quality hospitality in the region and contribute significantly to our North India growth trajectory.”

The new hotel is being developed in partnership with IRIS PARK LEISURES PRIVATE LIMITED. Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Varun Sharma and Mr. Manoj Gupta, Authorized Representative of IRIS PARK LEISURES PRIVATE LIMITED, stated, “We are excited to join hands with Royal Orchid Hotels to bring the reliable and quality Regenta experience to Rishikesh. Our shared commitment is to offer every guest an exceptional stay, blending local tranquility with world-class service.”

Ingredient Ideology By: Winter Warming Walnut Special Delights by Dr. Kaviraj Khialani – Celebrity Master Chef.

A Bundle Full Of Benefits To Explore And Imbibe

Walnuts are one of those varieties of nuts which have been known to us since a very long time and come winter come walnuts used to be the call I heard as I grew up from the elders in the house to the kids all would get going working hard to crack those nuts against all possible options to check what’s in store within and relist the fruit from the bundle of joy and well-being.

Walnuts are known to be an edible seed of a drupe and not a true botanical nut, rounded, single seeded stoned fruits of the walnut tree used for its inner goodness upon ripening and nutritive consumption, we often refer to them as Persian or English varietals, not to forget they must be processed and stored properly since their poor storage often makes them susceptible to insect and fungal mold infestations, a mold infested walnut batch is to be discarded completely. 

From having it as it is in its naturally crunchy texture and dense woody mouthfeel to having it in desserts, coffee walnut brownie, date and walnut pancakes, walnut banana bread, in health bars, in chocolates, milkshakes, smoothies, a few main courses as well walnuts have found their space well enough in our kitchen and bakery since a while now.

Let us have a look at the:

Top 10 Health Benefits of Warming up with Walnuts:

1. Walnuts are considered good for hair, skin, bones and assist in graceful aging.

2. Walnuts are high in anti-oxidants, helps fight stress, are nutritionally dense form of food.

3. Walnuts assist our body in healthy blood formation, lubricates our digestive system.

4. Walnuts are a rich source of Vitamin E and omega 3 fat from plants including walnuts which is called as alpha-linolenic acid [ALA]

5. Walnuts are known to be good for the memory and brain and also improve metabolism.

6. Walnuts also contain Vitamin- B complex, they also strengthen the kidneys and lungs.

7 Walnuts prevent inflammation in the body and prevents constipation and helps digestion in our system.

8.Walnuts help in treatment of type-2 diabetes and also helps in weight loss and management.

9. Walnuts are also called as longevity food, gets us good sleep, and also helps reproductive health in men.

10. Walnuts offer us a balance of all the essential nutrients needed on a daily basis for smooth functioning and also its consumption gives a feeling of satiety and fullness.

Top 10 Culinary Uses of Walnuts:

1. Adding walnuts to health shakes and bars, having them in between the meals during the day, having them in warm milk before sleeping at night, walnut cinnamon cookies & soy walnut biscuits are a good choice as well.

2. Walnuts have been used in making Akhroat ka halwa, sheera, and also used in making various Indian sweet look great as a part of garnish.

3. Using walnuts in salads adding them for that crunch on top is a great option, it also can form the part of the body like in waldorf salad, try adding it to a vinaigrette dressing it works well too, also a little drizzle of walnut oil on a salad can change its entire mouthfeel.

4. Date & walnut muffins, banana flax seed and walnut bread, whole grain pancakes with fruity walnut toppings, walnut and tropical fruit waffles are some of the ways of using it.

5. Walnuts in stir fries, adding them to a filling for pies, crusts, pastries and tarts also works well, it can easily blend itself well be it sweet or savory preparations.

6. Cheese, spinach and walnut tartlets, chicken and walnut pies, walnut and mushroom crepes, soy walnut meatballs, tofu and walnut Asian style stir fry are some of the ways to use walnuts too.

7. Add them for that crunch to a sandwich spread as well with avocado, lime, mint, garlic and olive oil to spread its wholesome nutrition on the bread layering it to be relished.

8. Steamed fish with walnuts dressed in sweet chili sauce wrapped in lettuce leaves, walnut oatmeal idlis, walnut and tahini chutney, walnut butter on crackers with grapes and cheese like a canape concept.

9. Baked berry and walnut bread pudding with custard sauce, walnut parfaits, date and walnut mousse, chick pea walnut falafels in pita pockets, coriander walnut and chili pesto sauce tossed with boiled pasta of your choice and fresh basil, parmesan shavings.

10. Walnut, Celery and Cream Cheese in pastry cases called Vol-Au-Vents, open sandwiches, dips and chutney concepts with walnut and paprika blended with tahini paste and mayonnaise can be offered with grilled and BBQ foods as well. 

Here are a few simple and easy to make recipes with Walnuts for all our readers:

Recipe-1] HERBED WALNUT & PEA DIP

Ingredients:

Walnuts- 10-12 nos.

Boiled chickpeas- 1 cup

Garlic- 1 tsp chopped

Coriander leaves-2 tbsp. chopped

Mayonnaise- ¼ cup

Salt and crushed black pepper- to taste

Roasted crushed cumin – ½ tsp

Mixed herbs- ½ tsp

Chili flakes-1/2 tsp

Olive oil/ oil- 1 tbsp.

Lime juice- 1 tbsp.

Chilled water- 2 tbsp.

To serve the dip with: assorted sticks of vegetables/ crackers/ pita bread/ cheese straws/ Lavash etc.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the dip and keep ready

2. Using a mixer grinder jar combine together all the ingredients and churn them well into a dip.

3. Remove and serve into a dip bowl, serve chilled.

Recipe-2] HEALTHY FRUITY WALNUT SHAKE

Ingredients:

Walnuts- 5 -6 nos.

Soy milk/milk/oats milk/- 2 cups

Vanilla essence or pinch of green cardamom/cinnamon powder-1 pinch- [any 1]

Banana- 1 no ripe

Dates- 3 -4 no.

Mint leaves- 4-5 no.

Chia seeds/ sunflower seeds/pumpkin seeds- 1 tsp [any 1]

Can add any other nuts or dried fruits of your choice as well like apricots/ raisins/sultanas etc.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the healthy shake.

2. Using a blender churn together all the ingredients to a smooth texture.

3. Pour into serving glasses and garnish as desired and relish.

Recipe-3] WALNUT VEGGIE SOUP

Ingredients:

Walnuts- 6-8 nos.

Olive oil/oil -1 tbsp.

Bayleaf-1 no

Garlic- 1 tsp chopped

Ginger-1 tsp chopped

Spring onion/onion- 2 small- chopped.

Assorted mix vegetables of your choice: carrots/beans/peas/potatoes/pumpkin/capsicums/sweet potato/beetroot etc can be used.

For non-veg options: add boiled chicken/ saute prawns/ sliced sausages etc once the soup is ready.

Salt and pepper to taste

Water/veg stock- 3-4 cups

Tomatoes-2 med sized chopped

Mixed herbs- ½ tsp or fresh herbs like basil/rosemary/thyme

Garam masala powder-1/2 tsp

Milk top cream- 2 tbsp.- optional

Coriander leaves- 2 tbsp. for garnish.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for this healthy and worthy soup.

2. Heat oil in a pan, add in the Bayleaf, onions, garlic, ginger and saute for a few seconds.

3. Add in the vegetables of your choice, tomatoes, salt, pepper, spices, herbs, chili flakes, tomatoes and mix well.

4. Add in the water/stock and simmer for 20-25 mins, cool, remove the Bayleaf, puree and strain the mixture.

5. Bring it back to a boil, check for seasonings, texture etc and add in the cream, walnuts and mix well.

6. Serve hot.

Korean Cuisine Startup Koriken raises ₹4Cr in seed round led by Rukam Capital

The investment will fuel product innovation, retail expansion, operational excellence, brand marketing and talent development, bringing authentic Korean flavours to India’s dynamic QSR landscape

India, December 2025:  Koriken, a next-gen Korean Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) in India, has raised ₹4 Crore in a Seed Funding Round from Rukam Capital, a venture capital firm backing early-stage consumer brands. This strategic investment empowers the QSR to accelerate the next phase of growth while bringing the authentic flavours of Korea closer to India.

Koriken combines authentic Korean taste with a modern QSR approach, making it fast, consistent, and accessible to its consumers. The fresh capital raised from Rukam Capital will enable Koriken to expand its flagship and high street outlets across cities, drive product innovation, and enhance brand visibility. To ensure quality, the capital will also strengthen operational efficiency, which includes scaling kitchen systems for speed, consistency, and delivery while blending authentic Korean flavours with the richness of Indian culinary traditions. The expansion will also be supported via talent development, as well as growing its core team.

Commenting on the deal, Hasan Patel, Founder and CEO, shared, “At Koriken, we are on a mission to make Korean street food a mainstream dining choice in India. With India’s young population increasingly seeking new flavours and experiences, we see an incredible opportunity to build a category-defining brand. Our focus is on consistency, affordability, and innovation, while staying true to the essence of Korean food culture."

Koriken, founded by Hasan Patel, offers an authentic taste of Korea with its range of signature dishes, including Korean fried chicken, ramen, mandu, and more. Through this partnership with Koriken, Rukam Capital reinforces its commitment to nurturing startups that are reshaping consumer experiences with diverse, high-quality, and innovative products across categories.

Speaking on the investment, Archana Jahagirdar, Founder & Managing Partner at Rukam Capital, said, “We see a tremendous opportunity to build a category-defining brand as India’s young consumers increasingly embrace new flavours and global cuisines. The current funding will help Koriken turn the Korean food wave into an everyday dining choice and make it a lasting part of India’s food culture. This intersection of India’s fast-growing QSR industry and the cultural momentum of Korea creates a unique high-growth opportunity, the perfect blend to propel ideas that create momentum for long-term success.”

Positioning itself to capitalize on the rapidly growing Korean food market, Koriken envisions making Korean cuisine a household favourite in India, blending authentic flavours, rich aromas, and a modern dining experience inspired by Korea.

India is witnessing a powerful wave of Korean influence that began with entertainment and fashion and has now seamlessly extended into the food & beverage space, reflecting an evolving national preference for Korean cuisine. Interestingly, food delivery platforms such as Swiggy and Zomato report nearly a 50% year-on-year increase in orders for Korean food, underscoring the country’s expanding appetite for global flavours.The trend is led by Gen Z consumers, who now contribute to over a quarter of all Korean food orders. Korean restaurants and QSRs have also seen a 59% surge in demand, with the popularity spreading beyond major metros to tier-2 cities like Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Vadodara, Mysuru, and Mangaluru.

With this investment, Koriken is poised to scale its presence and redefine how India experiences Korean cuisine. Together, Koriken and Rukam Capital aim to make authentic Korean flavours an integral part of India’s diverse and vibrant QSR culture.