STAAH is Booking.com's Premier Plus Connectivity Partner for 2026, fifth year in a row

STAAH’s renewed recognition as Booking.com’s Premier Plus Connectivity Partner underscores the vital role its innovative, high-performing technology plays in maximizing visibility and driving stronger results for its partner hotels on the platform.

Mumbai:  April, 2026 - STAAH, a leading global hospitality tech solutions firm, has yet again won the highest honour by Booking.com, being recognised as the platform’s Premier Plus Connectivity Partner for 2026.

 STAAH has won this prestigious title, the highest tier in Booking.com's Connectivity Partner Programme, every year since 2022, reflecting its long-term commitment to innovation, consistency and expertise in providing seamless, high-quality and effective solutions for hoteliers across markets.

Tony Howlett, CEO of STAAH, expressed his pride in this achievement, "Being recognised as Booking.com's Premier Plus Connectivity Partner for the fifth consecutive year is a milestone we're genuinely proud of — it reflects the sustained technical excellence and consistency our team brings to this partnership year after year. Our focus remains on delivering the best possible connectivity experience: giving hoteliers faster access to new Booking.com features, more reliable distribution, and the tools they need to compete and grow in an increasingly demanding market."

 “Recognising STAAH as our Premier plus Connectivity Partner for 2026 for the fifth consecutive year reflects the strength and consistency of our collaboration. STAAH continues to deliver high- quality connectivity solutions that enable accommodation partners to optimise their performance, improve visibility, and access the latest innovations on our platform. Their commitment to seamless integration and ongoing product enhancement aligns closely with our goal of making it easier for everyone to experience the world. We value this partnership and look forward to continuing to drive meaningful results together.” Robert Csenar, Booking.com – Connectivity Partner Business Manager, Singapore

 Over the years, STAAH has built a strategic partnership with Booking.com, offering a seamless connectivity experience for travellers and browsers in real time while helping hoteliers manage their distribution more efficiently and stay competitive in a constantly evolving market.

STAAH continues to empower hoteliers with its robust Channel Manager and SwiftBook Booking Engine, two core solutions designed to maximize online visibility, streamline distribution, and drive direct bookings. Together, these tools enable hotels to optimize performance, enhance guest experience, and unlock sustainable revenue growth in an increasingly competitive digital landscape.

IBIS Hosts first ever Coffee Rave, Introducing a New-Age Morning Social Format.

New Delhi, April 2026-  ibis Chennai Sipcot redefined the morning experience with the first-ever Coffee Rave, a curated high-energy gathering that brought together specialty coffee, music, and social interaction in an immersive cultural setting. The morning unfolded in full rhythm, as April 26 from 7 AM set the stage for a vibrant reset, with guests stepping into an atmosphere powered by pure energy, music, and a lively social buzz choosing an experience-led start to the day. Positioned as a fresh expression of modern hospitality, the Coffee Rave reflects a shift toward experience-led spaces where community, music, and lifestyle come together seamlessly to create meaningful shared moments.

As a first-mover in the hospitality landscape to host a Coffee Rave-style experience, ibis Chennai Sipcot sets the tone with a clear intent to champion bold, lifestyle-led programming that moves well beyond the boundaries of traditional hotel offerings. Initiatives like these reflect a larger shift, where hospitality spaces are no longer just places to stay, but evolving into dynamic cultural hubs shaped by community, creativity, and shared experiences. 

Designed for Chennai’s young urban professionals, socially active millennials, and Gen Z audiences, Coffee Rave mirrors the city’s growing appetite for experience-led socialising where unwinding is no longer passive, but intentional, immersive, and community-driven.  Such curated experiences seamlessly bring together social interaction, shared moments, and effortless engagement in a single, fluid setting. With specialty coffee, music, and an upbeat social atmosphere at its core, Coffee Rave creates an elevated  space where specialty coffee, music, and social energy come together to spark easy, meaningful connections.

Coffee Rave reflects our strategic approach to reimagining hospitality through an experiential lens creating culturally relevant moments that resonate with today’s urban audience while naturally driving stronger engagement and brand recall. It’s about building a consistent rhythm where culture, community, and everyday interactions come together to deliver experiences that feel both fresh and meaningful, said Tejus Jose, Director of Operations - ibis & ibis Styles India

At the property, there is a visible shift in how guests are choosing to engage with experiences, with growing interest in formats that encourage interaction, collective engagement, and  effortless participation. Coffee Rave, introduced as a one-of-its-kind concept at the property in line with emerging experiential trends, responds to this shift by bringing together music, coffee, and community in a morning setting that offers a different way of engaging with the space,” added  Parvez Cluster General Manager, ibis Chennai Sipcot and ibis Chennai City Centre.

Guests moved through a series of thoughtfully curated touchpoints through the morning, beginning with a dedicated coffee station serving a mix of refreshing cold brews alongside classic hot beverages, freshly crafted for the guests. To further elevate engagement, a hands-on brewing zone invited attendees to explore the art of coffee-making through simple, guided interactions. This participatory element added a more personal layer to the experience, sparking curiosity and conversation in equal measure. 

A live DJ set defined the high-energy mood of the morning, transforming the space into a vibrant and upbeat environment. From the outset, the music created an engaging atmosphere that encouraged guests to interact, participate, and immerse themselves in the experience.  It was an energetic environment throughout the event, seamlessly complementing the overall flow. Guests were seen enjoying animated conversations over coffee, along with spontaneous moments on the floor, reflecting a dynamic and lively setting where music, movement, and social connection came together.

This concept reflects a broader shift in hospitality towards creating more engaging, culture-led spaces where everyday interactions feel meaningful. As guest expectations continue to evolve, such formats are being developed and executed through thoughtfully designed on-ground experiences. Overall, it signals a clear move away from conventional stay-led offerings towards spaces shaped by contemporary lifestyle preferences and how people choose to spend their time.

SKIL Events Executes Y Combinator’s India Debut of Startup School in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, April, 2026: Y Combinator, the world’s most influential startup accelerator, hosted its first-ever Startup School India in Bengaluru – marking a landmark moment in its engagement with one of the fastest-growing startup ecosystems globally.

The response was overwhelming. Over 25,000 applications were received within 48 hours, with approximately 2,500 participants shortlisted and 2,250+ founders, builders, and operators attending the high-energy, one-day program.

The event brought together some of India’s most prominent startup voices, including Harshil Mathur (Co-founder – Razorpay), Aadit Palicha (Co-founder – Zepto), Vidit Aatrey (Co-founder – Meesho), and Lalit Keshre (Co-founder – Groww), alongside Y Combinator partners who engaged directly with the audience on building and scaling globally relevant companies.

The agenda focused on candid, real-world insights – from building from zero to navigating scale, fundraising, product-market fit, and global expansion – combined with high-impact networking and founder interactions. A strong emphasis was placed on the next wave of AI-led innovation, with founders exploring how India can build globally competitive, technology-first companies.

The event was delivered in collaboration with SKIL Events, who partnered with Y Combinator to execute the experience on-ground in India.

Ramanpreet Singh, Vice President – SKIL Events, said, "The energy in the room was electric – you could literally feel the hunger. Founders wanting to learn, build, collaborate, and be part of something far bigger than themselves. What stood out wasn’t just the scale but also the quality of conversations, the depth of ideas, and the sheer ambition in the room. There’s a clear shift – builders in India are not just participating anymore; they’re thinking global from day one, especially in the AI and deep-tech space.

From an execution standpoint, pulling this together at scale, within compressed timelines, while ensuring every touchpoint – venue, movement, security, F&B, and overall experience – came together seamlessly made this one of the most intense and rewarding projects we’ve delivered.
If this was the first, the next one has to be bigger, bolder, and far more immersive. Because what we witnessed here... is just the beginning."

Startup School India signals a strong step forward in connecting Indian founders with the global startup ecosystem – and if the response is anything to go by, the appetite for such platforms is only getting stronger.

Country Inn Hotels & Resorts marks a milestone of six openings within a month, with three new properties launches across Goa, Katra, and Patna

Country Inn Hotels & Resorts, the flagship brand of ‘Espire Hospitality Limited’, one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality companies, has announced the opening of three new hotels – Country Inn, Goa, Country Inn, Katra, and Country Inn Smart Stays, Patna. Earlier this month, the company had announced expansion in Uttarakhand region with the three hotel openings in Rishikesh and Dehradun. With these additions, the brand continues to expand its footprint across the country, while building a portfolio that caters to multiple travel needs and formats.

COUNTRY INN, GOA

The opening of 44-key Country Inn, Goa marks the brand’s entry into one of India’s most sought-after leisure destinations. Located just 5 minutes from Calangute Beach, the hotel offers a relaxed coastal setting with thoughtfully designed interiors that feel easy and functional from the moment guests arrive. With an all-day dining restaurant, Ruhani, and a poolside bar, Liquid, the hotel is designed for unhurried stays, placing guests within easy reach of beaches, cafés, and North Goa’s vibrant social scene. The property also features a swimming pool and well-planned rooms and suites, offering a comfortable stay experience for leisure travellers.

COUNTRY INN, GOA

The opening of Country Inn, Katra strengthens the brand’s presence in key pilgrimage destinations. Set at a prime location on the Jammu Road in Katra, the gateway to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, the hotel offers 36 well-appointed rooms designed for comfort and ease along with Country Inn brand’s heartfelt hospitality. Positioned near Fountain Chowk, close to key attractions of the destination as well as the pilgrimage routes, the hotel allows guests to move through their journey effortlessly. With well-planned spaces, an all-day dining restaurant Rasalika, and round-the-clock services, the hotel provides a practical and reliable stay for travellers visiting for short spiritual visit or an escape in the hills.

COUNTRY INN, KATRA

Further expanding its footprint in urban markets, the brand has introduced Country Inn Smart Stays, Patna, bringing its new format to one of Bihar’s key commercial centres. Located in the bustling Fraser Road area, the hotel places guests close to key commercial districts and just minutes away from the key tourist attractions like Mahabir Temple, Iskcon Temple, Golghar and Bihar Museum. With 50 well-appointed rooms, city’s famous restaurant Kapil Dev’s Elevens and Country Inn’s warm hospitality, the hotel provides a comfortable stay in the heart of the city.

COUNTRY INN SMART STAYS, PATNA

Multiple event venues including 2 banquet halls and a boardroom offers flexible options for business meetings, private events, and intimate social gatherings in a centrally located setting.

Mr. Akhil Arora, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Espire Hospitality Limited Speaking about the expansion, Mr. Akhil Arora, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Espire Hospitality Group, said, “These openings across Goa, Katra, and Patna after our 3 recent launches in Uttarakhand is a thoughtful step to deepen our presence across India. With six openings in a month and tapping into the unique markets - from leisure-driven destinations like Goa to high-demand pilgrimage hubs such as Katra and rapidly growing urban centres like Patna, we are strengthening our portfolio with formats that are relevant to diverse travellers. This approach not only broadens our footprint but also enables us to deliver experiences that are aligned with strong emerging travel trends.”

Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond Wins ‘Most Luxurious Spa Resort’ at Global Spa Awards 2025

Bangalore: Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond, Kumarakom has been conferred the title of Most Luxurious Spa Resort at the Global Spa Awards 2025. This recognition underscores Niraamaya Life’s continued focus on delivering wellness experiences anchored in authenticity, sustainability, and refined hospitality.

The award was presented on 22 April 2026 at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, in the presence of leading stakeholders from the wellness and hospitality sectors, along with prominent members of the film fraternity. Allen Machado, Chief Executive Officer, accepted the award on behalf of the organisation.

This marks the fourth recognition for Niraamaya Life at the Global Spa Awards, reflecting the brand’s strategic emphasis on holistic wellbeing and immersive guest experiences. Central to this approach is a strong focus on preventive wellness, delivered through thoughtfully designed therapies and programmes that promote long-term health and balance. The accolade also recognises the property’s consistent delivery of curated spa journeys inspired by nature-led therapies and the principles of Ayurveda.

Commenting on the recognition, Allen Machado stated:
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the Global Spa Awards. It reflects the collective commitment of our teams to deliver preventive wellness experiences that support holistic wellbeing. We remain focused on advancing wellness hospitality through authenticity, personalisation, and consistency in delivery.”

Niraamaya Life continues to strengthen its position in the wellness hospitality sector, with a strategic expansion plan across domestic and international markets over the next two years. This growth is supported by a focused approach to programme design, tranquil environments, and intuitive service delivery. The brand’s offerings remain centred on enabling balance, restoration, and sustained wellbeing.

This recognition further reinforces Niraamaya Life’s standing as a leading wellness-focused hospitality brand and aligns with its long-term vision of delivering immersive and meaningful guest journeys.

GST reset could redefine India’s hospitality competitiveness on the global stage

EY India and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry propose a sharper tax structure to reposition India as a high-value, experience-driven tourism destination.

April , 2026: Diya Kumari, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan

Ernst & Young LLP (EY India) has proposed a revised Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure for hotel accommodations, recommending a reduction in the higher tariff category from 18% to 9% for room rates above ₹7,500, while retaining the existing 5% slab for tariffs between ₹1,000 and ₹7,500, a targeted intervention aimed at easing the tax burden, enhancing value perception, and better aligning India’s hospitality pricing with competing global destinations.

The case for a competitive tax structure

“Higher cost of accommodation, transportation and taxes are the reason India is often perceived as an expensive destination in comparison to countries such as Thailand and Vietnam. India currently levies 5% GST is for room tariffs between ₹1,000 and ₹7,000 and 18% for tariffs above ₹7,500. The 18% tax on higher tariff categories impact overall price competitiveness particularly for international travelers. A reduced GST of 9% for tariffs above ₹7,500 will enhance value perception, improve affordability across segment and better align India with competitive destinations,” said the report, which was released at 3-day long Global India Tourism Bazaar 2026 being organized from April 26-28, 2026.

Structural gaps limiting global appeal

The report also identifies key structural challenges constraining India’s global competitiveness — fragmented state-led branding, limited global marketing outreach, lack of experience-led packaging, and ease-of-travel barriers including connectivity and visa processes.

A roadmap towards ‘Incredible India 4.0’

The insights and recommendation forms part of EY India and FICCI’s latest report titled “Reimagining Inbound Tourism in India: Trends, Technology & Transformational Opportunities – Towards Incredible India 4.0,” which presents a comprehensive and forward-looking roadmap to unlock India’s inbound tourism potential, advocating a decisive shift from a fragmented, destination-led approach to a unified, experience-driven tourism ecosystem. The report presents a bold strategic vision — transforming India’s positioning from “a country with many destinations” to “a destination with infinite experiences” — built on six interconnected imperatives: branding, pricing, experience, infrastructure, policy, and technology.

The inbound tourism paradox

India’s tourism landscape reflects a striking paradox — strong domestic demand yet a persistent inbound gap, with foreign tourist arrivals at approximately 9.9 million in 2024, modest against competing destinations. The tourism sector currently contributes approximately ₹21 trillion to GDP and supports over 46 million jobs. With a hospitality pipeline exceeding 1,00,000 rooms, the report notes that supply growth must align with international demand to ensure sustainability.

Experience-led travel emerges as the next frontier

India’s tourism landscape is undergoing a powerful transformation, with experience-led and high-value segments emerging as the next big growth frontier. From Sports and Culinary Tourism to Spiritual Wellness, Wildlife, and Event-led Travel, India’s diverse offerings are increasingly capturing global imagination. India’s live entertainment sector surpassed ₹12,000 crore (US$ 1.28 billion) in 2024, projected to grow at 19% CAGR over three years, making festivals, concerts, and sporting events powerful inbound drivers. AI and digital platforms are redefining travel discovery, while the rise of Gen Z, women, and solo travellers signals a fundamental shift in traveller profile that India must be equipped to serve.

A pivotal moment for global positioning

India stands at a pivotal moment in its tourism journey, and enhancing price competitiveness is central to unlocking its true potential on the global stage. By addressing cost dynamics around accommodation, taxation, and transport, India can position itself as a compelling value destination against its Southeast Asian counterparts. International visitor spending — projected to grow at 5.5% per annum to reach US$ 2.95 trillion by 2034 — represents the most compelling growth opportunity ahead.

Conclusion

With coordinated policy interventions, competitive pricing structures, and a shift towards unified, experience-driven tourism delivery, India is well-positioned to convert its unparalleled diversity into a decisive global tourism advantage.

Raffles Udaipur Recognised at the GlobalSpa Awards 2025 for ‘Enchanting’ – Most Luxurious Spa Treatment

National, April 2026: Raffles Udaipur has been recognised at the GlobalSpa Awards 2025, receiving the ‘Most Luxurious Spa Treatment’ under the Audit Awards category for its signature treatment, Enchanting, at the Raffles Spa.

 Conferred through an independent audit process, this recognition underscores the resort’s commitment to delivering consistently refined and thoughtfully curated wellness experiences, defined by precision, care and intuitive service.

 Speaking on the recognition, Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager, Raffles Udaipur, shared,
“This recognition at the GlobalSpa Awards, under the Audit Awards category, holds particular significance for us as it reflects an independently assessed standard of excellence. It is a testament to the care, precision and consistency our team brings to every experience at the Raffles Spa. ‘Enchanting’ has been thoughtfully crafted to offer a deeply immersive and personalised journey, and this acknowledgement reinforces the standards we remain committed to every day.”

 The award-winning treatment, Enchanting, is a signature Raffles Spa experience that brings together time-honoured Ayurvedic traditions with contemporary wellness practices. Designed as a deeply immersive ritual, it focuses on restoring balance, encouraging deep relaxation and enhancing overall wellbeing through a personalised approach tailored to each guest.

 Set against the tranquil backdrop of Udai Sagar Lake, Raffles Udaipur offers a considered approach to wellbeing, where modern techniques are harmonised with traditional wisdom. The recognition highlights the resort’s consistent focus on exceptional service, attention to detail and a guest experience shaped around comfort, privacy and meaningful outcomes.

The GlobalSpa Awards celebrate excellence across the international wellness landscape, recognising establishments that set benchmarks in luxury, innovation and service, with select categories evaluated through independent audit processes.

This recognition further reinforces Raffles Udaipur’s position as one of India’s distinguished luxury wellness destinations.

Red Bowl Brings Live Teppanyaki to Vijayawada

Vijayawada’s first-and-only Teppanyaki Live Grill experience at Red Bowl, a “Best Restaurant in Vijayawada” winner at the Food Connoisseurs Awards. 

April 2026: Vijayawada now offers a new reason to step out this summer. Fresh off being named “Best Restaurant in Vijayawada” at the 3rd South Edition of the Food Connoisseurs Awards, Red Bowl at Novotel Vijayawada Varun invites locals to experience its signature showstopper: theTeppanyaki Live Grill. One of the first authentic Teppanyaki counters in the city, offering a live, cook-to-order dining experience. 

“We wanted to turn dinner into an occasion with an authentic Teppanyaki experience, cooked live at the counter, creating a true chef-and-guest interaction that is perfect for families and celebrations,” shares Manish Pathak, Hotel Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun. 

A Menu Defined by Fire and Freshness 

At the heart of the experience is the theatre of Teppanyaki, where flame, flavour and finesse come together on a sizzling grill. Guests get a front-row seat as chefs sear premium proteins, toss fresh vegetables and finish hibachi-style rice with precision and flair. Each dish is cooked live to order, allowing for a high level of customisation while retaining the authenticity of this classic Japanese cooking style. The result is an experience that feels as interactive as it is indulgent. It is perfect for those looking to elevate everyday dining into something more memorable. 

Contemporary Space, Front-Row Energy 

Set in a bold red palette with clean, modern lines; Red Bowl’s design philosophy mirrors the dynamism of the live grill. The Teppanyaki counters take centre stage, drawing focus to the action while maintaining a comfortable, refined setting for guests. Whether it’s a family outing, a casual evening with friends or a celebratory meal, the space balances energy with elegance, making it as much about the atmosphere as it is about the cuisine. 

Discovering the Art of Relaxation this Summer at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru

As the pink trumpet trees bloom across the city and the golden hour casts its honeyed glow, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru invites you to a refreshing seasonal homecoming. A sophisticated intersection of international modernism and rich Indian heritage, this two-tower "Garden City" oasis is designed to feel like the curated sanctuary of an adventurous art collector. This season, the luxury destination brings the global Summer Made Unforgettable campaign to life, reimagined with a distinct and soulful Bengaluru sensibility.

101 Days of Summer

A 101-day tribute to the carefree spirit of the sun. At the heart of this celebration is The Summer Table Buffet Lunch at CUR8, where guests can wander through live stations and chefs demonstrate precision at the grill while vibrant mangoes take center stage. 

The menu is a dedicated tribute to the "King of Fruits," featuring signature creations like Mango Saffron Bliss, Alphonso Mango kulfi and Aamrakhand. To further cool the palate, the Temperance Trail offers a restorative story of botanical hydration through Kokum, Aam Panna, and the Nandi Hills Spritz.

Poolside Rituals & Elevated Evenings Afternoons drift toward the water’s edge, where a vintage-inspired summer cart brings street-side familiarity to the alfresco spaces. Guests can savour artisanal gelatos, including the Java Plum Promenade Sorbet and the Coastal Cream Magnum Bar. These moments are made even more seamless through the use of resort credits, allowing for effortless indulgence by the pool.

As dusk approaches, the experience ascends. Evenings unfold with elevated mixology at Copitas, the award-winning bar, followed by Pan-Asian indulgence with panoramic views at Far & East.

The Art of Rest & Exploration 

The property breathes like a living gallery, where every corner serves as an evolving canvas, anchored by a rotating art gallery that offers a fresh perspective with every visit. High above the summer heat, the 21st floor unveils an iconic, golden-hued panorama, where picturesque rose-hued trumpet blossoms create a sense of mist-like calm in the air, as a cool breeze drifts through the city. 

The journey settles into glass-walled havens, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the shifting skyline and lush canopy. These retreats are dedicated to the “Art of Rest” perfect for slow mornings over coffee or a deep, restorative stillness as the night unfolds. When the city calls, the concierge artfully guides guests through the soul of Bengaluru, from the monumental grandeur of Vidhana Soudha to the floral fragrance of KR Market, best experienced while wandering through its vibrant lanes.

“Summer in Bengaluru is a season of unique beauty. We invite guests to a refreshing homecoming to fully relax this season with Summer Made Unforgettable at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru. The curated artistry, Infuse Spa, poolside escapes and the nostalgic flavours of our '101 Days of Summer' culinary program, we have designed every experience to flow like a gentle breeze” says Biswajit Chakraborty, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru

Sanctuary of Serenity For a final moment of stillness, Infuse Spa offers a holistic escape. Guests can immerse themselves in Indian-inspired therapies like Revitalise and Saundarya, or the signature Flowers at Four Seasons ritual. The spa is a sanctuary designed to restore balance and vitality long after the summer ends.

Experience a stay that flows effortlessly from exploration to relaxation, a summer designed to be felt, shared, and remembered.

Beyond Bookings: ‘Traveler-Centric’ Data Revolution To Transform the Travel Industry

Toronto, Canada,  April , 2026 — As the travel and tourism sector valued at over $9 trillion globally continues to expand, companies are generating vast amounts of data across booking patterns, pricing trends, loyalty programs and customer behavior. However, much of this data remains transaction-focused, leaving a critical gap in understanding the individual traveler.

Aiming to address the real-time challenges of travelers and explorers, Toronto based Indian Startup, Travel One Technologies, a fast-growing travel-tech startup, today announced its vision to transform the global travel industry through a new traveler-centric data approach, powered by its proprietary ‘Traveler DNA’ 30-marker framework

The industry has become highly efficient at managing supply, but it still lacks a deep understanding of the traveler,” said Founder & CEO, Bhavin Vora. “We are bridging this gap, as the next phase of innovation will depend on interpreting human intent, not just tracking behavior.

Travel One Technologies is designed to address this gap through its “Traveler DNA” technology, which creates multidimensional traveler profiles that go beyond traditional segmentation. Rather than relying solely on past bookings or search behavior, the framework incorporates deeper insights such as emotional drivers, social preferences, risk tolerance, and an individual’s appetite for new experiences.

The company’s solution is designed to benefit both travelers and B2B segment-travel service providers. For consumers, it enables more relevant and personalized travel recommendations aligned with their identity and preferences. For businesses—including airlines, hotels and online travel platforms—it offers opportunities to improve product design, enhance customer engagement and increase conversion rates.

Traditional personalization models in travel have largely depended on behavioral data such as clicks, searches and purchase history. However, such data often reflects constraints like budget, time or group dynamics rather than true preferences. Travel One Technologies believes this has limited the effectiveness of existing personalization efforts.

“The industry has treated travel as a transaction problem, when it is fundamentally an identity problem,” Vora added. “Understanding the traveler at a deeper level allows for more meaningful and relevant experiences.”

The announcement comes at a time when competition in the travel sector is intensifying and inventory is becoming increasingly commoditized. Flights, hotels and packages are widely available across multiple platforms, making differentiation more challenging. Industry research, including findings from Deloitte, suggests that companies leveraging advanced personalization strategies can increase revenues by up to 15% and improve marketing efficiency by up to 30%.

Travel One Technologies’ approach aligns with broader shifts in consumer behavior, as more than 70% of travelers now prioritize experiences over material purchases and show a growing willingness to pay for personalized journeys.

The company also emphasized its commitment to responsible data practices, noting that transparency, user consent and trust will be central to the development and deployment of its technology. With advancements in artificial intelligence and predictive analytics accelerating across the travel ecosystem, Travel One Technologies believes the future of the industry lies in moving beyond destination-based recommendations toward identity-driven travel experiences.

If successfully implemented, the Traveler DNA framework could mark a significant shift in how travel is designed, marketed and delivered—positioning Travel One Technologies at the forefront of what it calls the next major travel data revolution.

ELE|NA Challenges Conventional Spa Models at HICSA 2026

Heidi Grimwood advocates for immersive, locally rooted wellness ecosystems in hospitality design

Mumbai, April 2026: With wellness fast becoming central to hospitality development across South Asia, ELE|NA took the stage at HICSA 2026 to call for a fundamental shift in how spa and wellness partnerships are conceived, designed, and delivered within hotel projects.

Speaking at the 21st edition of the Hotel Investment Conference South Asia (HICSA), Heidi Grimwood, Senior Vice President at ELE|NA, urged hotel developers to move beyond surface-level spa concepts and invest in fully integrated wellness ecosystems from the ground up.

On the panel “Bare Essentials: Nature & Wellness,” Grimwood said: “A treatment rooted in a destination’s plants, waters, and healing traditions becomes a lasting memory. A generic spa experience—even in a beautiful setting—is quickly forgotten. The difference lies in how deeply wellness is built into the property from day one.”

The message comes at a time when wellness-led travel is driving a growing share of luxury hospitality demand across the region. Yet many developments still rely on standardised spa formats that struggle to create meaningful differentiation or long-term guest recall.

With a portfolio of 15+ operational properties across India and the Maldives—and a pipeline spanning Nepal, Bhutan, Coorg, Jaipur, and Kannur—ELE|NA is positioning itself around a distinctly localised model. Its Wellness Your Way™ philosophy replaces fixed menus with treatments shaped by indigenous botanicals, regional healing traditions, and the natural environment of each destination.

A key highlight of Grimwood’s address was ELE|NA’s No Menu Spa concept, where therapists design treatments intuitively around each guest—moving away from scripted offerings toward personalised, expertise-led experiences. Beyond operations, ELE|NA is building a broader ecosystem through its Wellness Academy and its organic product line, Essentia—both aimed at strengthening local sourcing, practitioner training, and long-term consistency across properties.

As destinations like Bhutan and India’s regional retreats gain momentum, ELE|NA is calling on developers to apply greater scrutiny when selecting wellness partners—particularly around cultural authenticity, operational depth, and sustained commercial performance.

Cleartrip Expands into Train Bookings with IRCTC Partnership, Strengthens Multi-Modal Platform

With this launch, the Flipkart group firm expands its offerings to include Flights, Hotels, Trains, Buses, and Holiday Packages~

National, April , 2026: Cleartrip, a Flipkart company and one of India’s fastest-growing online travel platforms, today announced the launch of train ticket bookings in partnership with Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the official ticketing arm of Indian Railways.

Leveraging IRCTC's strong infrastructure, this integration offers both reliability at scale and a simplified, user-friendly experience. Cleartrip will allow users to search for, book, and manage their train journeys effortlessly within the app, marking a significant step towards becoming a unified, multi-modal travel platform.

With this launch, travellers can access train ticket bookings across routes in India, including General and Tatkal quotas as prescribed by the guidelines of the Ministry of Railways, alongside essential services such as real-time seat availability, fare insights, PNR status tracking, berth preferences, and secure digital payments, all in a single, intuitive interface.

 Manjari Singhal, Chief Growth and Business Officer, Cleartrip, said, “Train travel is a critical part of India’s mobility ecosystem, and this launch marks an important step towards realizing our vision of becoming a unified, multi-modal travel platform. With our partnership with IRCTC, we are focused on simplifying the booking experience and making it more accessible to millions of travellers.”

Gaurav Patwari, Chief Business Officer, Air, Cleartrip, said, "With over 800 million reserved passengers travelling by train every year, the opportunity isn’t just about scale; it's about delivering a differentiated experience. By embedding seamless booking experience, predictive intelligence, and personalization into the platform, we are ensuring that every step, from discovery to post-booking support, is fast, reliable, and stress-free.”

India’s rail network is one of the world's most complex mobility systems, serving 23 million passengers daily and 7 billion annually, making it one of the world's largest transportation systems. Cleartrip aims to capitalize on this enormous demand by integrating train bookings into its services. The company plans to extend this offering to its web platform soon, ensuring a seamless cross-platform experience for users.

Muthaiga Travel hosts ‘Kenya Beyond Safari’ webinar underscoring Kenya’s wholesome travel appeal for Indian Travellers

Mumbai, April 2026: Muthaiga Travel, Kenya - the country’s foremost destination management company, known for hosting vibrant breath-taking experiences, recently hosted an exclusive travel webinar titled ‘Kenya Beyond Safari’ on April 24, 2026, led by Stephen Opondo, Senior Tours Consultant with support from Lucy Bett, Tours and Mice Co-Ordinator, to enable Indian travel agents with immersive itineraries in Kenya that are not restricted to its scenic wildlife safaris but capture the destination’s unique beachfronts, dreamy wedding venues, and natural and cultural outsets ideal for both honeymooners and families.

 The webinar was crafted to bolster the ties with Indian travel agents while identifying key partners who are proactive, responsive, and aligned with delivering seamless traveller experiences. Stephen led the presentation, offering in-depth insights into Kenya’s prowess in offering tourism products that are in line with contemporary travel trends.

 Kenya, though predominantly known for its globally celebrated safaris, Muthaiga Travel believes the destination’s other unique offerings remain sparingly explored, especially by a vast aspirational market like India. From clean, expansive beaches overlooking the Indian Ocean, destination weddings and romantic honeymoon itineraries can be seamlessly planned at cost-effective prices. Muthaiga Travel is showcasing Kenya as a unique, year-round destination. Moreover, the destination’s immersive cultural experiences cater to travellers seeking in-depth immersive experiences.

Speaking about the webinar, Mira Bid, Managing Director of Muthaiga Travel, said, “Kenya has grown over the years to offer tourism attractions to Indian travellers that go beyond the legendary safaris. Through this webinar, we aimed to present these diverse experiences while partnering with key travel partners from India.”

As the Indian outbound market is surging continuously, travellers are looking for contemporary, unique holidays that are different from the traditional itineraries. The travel trade from India will enable Muthaiga Travel to drive increased inbound tourism to Kenya.

Beyond Prague: Exploring Czechia’s New Travel Experiences

India, April 2026: Indian travellers are returning to Europe, but this time, the focus is shifting from ticking off landmarks to seeking more meaningful, experience-led journeys. As this shift takes shape, Czechia is inviting travellers to look beyond its capital and discover a side of the country that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

Prague continues to be the natural starting point, known for its historic charm and vibrant cultural scene. What is increasingly shaping travel to Czechia, however is what lies beyond. A growing range of regions that offer distinctive experiences, all within easy reach of the capital. In line with evolving traveller preferences, Czechia is now actively introducing these regions into Indian itineraries, encouraging journeys that are more immersive and well-rounded.

This growing interest in exploring beyond Prague is also reflected in recent travel patterns. In 2025, Czechia welcomed over 90,000 Indian visitors, marking approximately 12.38% increase year-on-year. While Prague continues to attract the majority, regions beyond the capital are steadily gaining traction as travellers look for more immersive and less crowded experiences. This shift was further reinforced at Czechia Travel Trade Day 2026 which took place in Prague from 20th to 21st April 2026, where Czechia highlighted a wider portfolio of regional experiences and is actively working with partners to introduce these emerging destinations into Indian itineraries.

Among the regions now being introduced to Indian travellers, some are redefining what Czechia has to offer. The Pilsen Region is not just about beer, even though it is the birthplace of the world-famous Pilsner. The region is quietly expanding its identity, with experiences that go beyond the expected. From exploring the legendary Pilsner Urquell Brewery to discovering traditional spirits at the historic Prádlo Distillery, considered among the oldest distilleries in Czechia and known for preserving time-honoured production methods, travellers can experience a deeper side of the country’s beverage heritage. The journey continues with Bohemia Sekt, the country’s leading producer of sparkling wines often referred to as the Czech equivalent of champagne offering a refined glimpse into Czechia’s evolving wine culture. Paired with castle visits and local culinary experiences, Pilsen presents a side of Czechia that feels both familiar and unexpectedly diverse.

Meanwhile, the Liberec Region offers a completely different perspective where nature, design and craftsmanship come together. While the region is known for the iconic Ještěd Tower, a futuristic structure set against panoramic mountain views, it is equally defined by its creative edge. Spaces like Pačinek Glass showcase how traditional Czech glassmaking is being reimagined through contemporary art and design, with visitors even having the opportunity to try their hand at glass blowing turning a centuries-old craft into a personal, immersive experience. Set within the dramatic landscapes of the Bohemian Paradise, with its sandstone formations and scenic trails, Liberec stands out as an experience that goes far beyond the typical European itinerary.

Together, these regions highlight how Czechia is evolving beyond its capital, offering travellers a more layered journey where culture, history and distinctive local experiences come together seamlessly. Commenting on this evolving trend, Ms. Barbara Andelová, International Marketing Manager – New Markets, CzechTourism, said: “Indian travellers are increasingly looking to go beyond the well-known highlights of Europe and spend more time experiencing local culture and regional diversity. Czechia offers a unique mix of historic cities and emerging regions and we are actively working with partners to introduce these experiences into Indian itineraries, allowing travellers to explore at their own pace while discovering something new with each visit.”

As travel plans for the upcoming season take shape, Czechia offers Indian travellers the opportunity to discover more not just of Europe, but of the destination itself.

Ingredient Ideology | Vitamin- C Juices: Power Pack Benefits To Explore! By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef.

Vitamin-C, Also Popularly Known As Ascorbic Acid, Which Is Very Much Necessary For The Growth, Development And Repair Of Our Body Tissues. Vitamin C Is Also An Anti-Oxidant, It Promotes Healing And Helps Body Absorb Iron. It Comes From Fruits And Select Vegetables. Some Of The Good Sources Of Vitamin- C Include Citrus Fruits, Red And Green Peppers, Tomatoes, Broccoli And Our Famous Greens.

Vitamin- C Is One Of The Safest And Most Effective Nutrients As Per Most Food And Nutrition Experts. It Is Always Beneficial To Know More About What We Eat And Consume In Our Daily Diets And That Little Awareness Can Take Us A Long Way Towards Living A Healthy Lifestyle.

“Vitamin C As We Are Aware Is Quintessential To Be Included In Our Diets And Taken Advantage Of Through Wise And Mindful Eating. I Have Somehow Related The C - Factor To Care- Collect- Adapt- Rejuvenate- Explore, Which Truly Is The Essence Of A Healthy Lifestyle”- Chef Kaviraj Khialani, Celebrity Master Chef.

Top 10 Vitamin- C Rich Sources:

1. Oranges.

2. Strawberry

3. Kiwi Fruit

4. Spinach

5. Broccoli

6. Red Capsicum

7. Lime And Lemon

8. Guava

9. Tomatoes

10. Papaya

Here Are 5  Health Benefits Of Tomato Juice:

1. It Is Beneficial To The Skin, And Also Helps Prevent Blood Clotting.

2. Tomato Juice Helps To Protect Heart Health And Also Aids Digestion.

3. It Is Good For Anaemia And Is Also High In Anti-Oxidants.

4. Tomato Juice Benefits Eye Health And Keeps It Healthy.

5. It Also Helps Cure Pimples And Is Beneficial For Prostate

Recipe Using Tomato Juice:

Tomatino Al Fresco Juice

Ingredients:

Tomatoes- Red And Ripe- 4-5 No.

Ginger- 1 Tsp Chopped

Lime Juice- 2 Tsp

Salt- 1 Pinch

Celery- 1 Stalk Roughly Cut

Honey-1 Tsp

Mint Leaves- 8-10 No

Carrot- 1 Small, Peeled And Cut

Black Pepper Powder-1/4 Tsp

Coriander Leaves-2 Tsp Chopped

Method:

1. Prepare All The Ingredients For The Healthy Tomato Juice.

2. Using A Blender Jar, Combine Together All The Ingredients And Add A Little Cold Water Just To Blend It Well.

3. Churn The Mixture Well To A Nice Smooth Thick Puree And Strain It Through A Soup Strainer. Add A Little Crushed Ice/ Ice Cubes And Serve, Garnish With Fresh Greens.

Here Are 5 Health Benefits Of Pineapple Juice:

1. Pineapple Juice Helps Lower Cholesterol Levels In Our Body.

2. It Is Beneficial As An Immunity Booster And Good For Bone Health.

3. Pineapple Juice Is Beneficial In Reducing Arthritis Pain, Improves Digestion.

4. It Improves Blood Circulation And Promotes Heart Health, Provides Good Carbs.

5. Pineapple Juice Is Also Good For A Weight Loss Program, Keeps Gums Strong.

Recipe Using Pineapple Juice:

Pina Mina Cooler

Ingredients

Fresh Pineapple- 6- 8 Slices, Cleaned, Cubed.

Mint Leaves- 10-12 No

Lime Juice- 2-3 Tsp

Honey- 1 Tsp

Ginger Juice- 2 Tsp

Orange Juice- ½ Cup Fresh/ Orange Segments- 2 Oranges

Water-1/2 Cup

Ice Cubes- 3-4 No If Needed

Method:

1. Prepare All The Ingredients For The Pineapple Juice Recipe.

2. In A Blender Jar Combine Together All The Ingredients And Churn Them All Into A Nice Smooth Juice.

3. Strain The Mixture Through A Soup Strainer/ Fine Sieve/Muslin Cloth And Add A Little Crushed Ice/ Cold Water If Desired To Balance The Juice.

4. Serve It In Tall Glasses, Add Some Fresh Mint/ Basil Or Herbs Of Your Choice To The Juice As Well For Added Flavor And Freshness.

Here Are 5 Health Benefits Of Kiwi Juice:

1. Kiwi Juice Offers Our Body With Beneficial Digestive Enzymes.

2. Kiwi Is A Great Immunity Booster As Well For Our Body.

3. Kiwi Juice Is High In Fiber And Removes Excess Sodium From Our Body.

4. Kiwi Is Good For Managing Blood Pressure And Also Protects Our Respiratory System.

5. Kiwi Juice Protects Our Cardiovascular System And Is Also Good For Eye Health.

Recipe Using Kiwi Juice:

Kiwi Mast Kalandar

Ingredients:

Fresh Kiwi Fruit- 2-3 No, Peeled And Cubed

Green Apple-1 No, Cut Into Small Cubes

Lime Juice-2 Tsp

Honey-1 Tsp

Mint Leaves- 10-12 No

Fresh Basil- 4-5 Leaves

Ginger Juice- 2 Tsp

Chia Seeds-2 Tsp Soaked In ¼ Cup Water For 30 Mins

Pinch Of Salt

Ice Cubes-4-5 No/Crushed Ice/ Chilled Water As Needed

Method:

1. Prepare All The Ingredients For The Healthy Kiwi Juice.

2. Using The Jar Of A Food Processor Combine The Ingredients Into The Jar Except The Chia Seeds Which We Will Add Later In The Glass.

3. Churn The Mixture To A Nice Puree And Remove Into A Bowl, Do Not Strain This Juice Ideally But Enjoy It With The Rustic Look.

4. Lastly Add The Soaked Chia Seeds And Stir Lightly, Pour The Mixture Into Glasses Add A Little Cold Water/Crushed Ice If Desired And Serve.

*As An Option For This Juice I Also Like To Use Kale Or Spinach Leaves In Place Of Green Apple. Another Good Source Of Vitamin C Here Is To Use Boiled/Blanched Amla- Indian Gooseberries With Kiwi As A Combination Juice As Well Replacing Green Apple.

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About The Writer: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani-Celebrity Master Chef Is A Food- Health And Lifestyle Consultant. Chef Kaviraj Is Recipient Of Several National Awards And Global Recognitions For His Extra- Ordinary Achievements And Dedication To The Food And Hospitality Industry Since Over 22 Years Now. He Is Specialised In Over 33 International Cuisines And Loves To Innovate With Foods, Ingredients And Share His Vast And Quality Experience With The Readers Of Herzindagi.Com

Skyroot’s Vikram-1, India’s First Private Orbital Rocket, Flagged Off by Telangana CM for Sriharikota

April 2026: Vikram-1, India’s first privately built orbital rocket by Skyroot Aerospace, was flagged off today by Shri A. Revanth Reddy, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana, from the company’s Max-Q campus in Hyderabad. Shri D. Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Electronics & Communications, Industries & Commerce and Legislative Affairs of Telangana, was also present at the event. The ceremony marked the rocket’s formal departure to the launch site at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

As part of the event, the Chief Minister ceremonially flagged off the rocket’s space-ready payload fairing, the structure that protects the satellites inside the rocket during flight.

Addressing Skyroot employees, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana, Shri A. Revanth Reddy said the ocassion marks a key milestone in Telangana's pursuit of becoming a global leader in Aerospace sector.

He explained that the government is focusing on skilling youth for the aerospace sector through partnerships with global universities and industry leaders. With strong policies, infrastructure, talent, and a vibrant ecosystem, our government is committed to supporting companies like Skyroot, he added.

The flag-off of the flight hardware marks the completion of the pre-flight testing program at Skyroot’s facilities. The rocket’s propulsion stages have already been secured at the spaceport in Sriharikota.

Speaking at the event, Pawan Kumar Chandana, Co-founder and CEO, Skyroot Aerospace said, ‘’We are honoured to have the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana Shri. A Revanth Reddy flag-off our Vikram-1 rocket to the spaceport. The launch of this orbital rocket will mark a major milestone for India’s emerging private space-tech industry. With Vikram-1, we aim to open up space by enabling on-demand satellite launches for a fast-growing global market.”

With the Vikram-1 launch, Skyroot is set to make India's first private orbital launch attempt, marking its entry into a market currently dominated by a handful of companies globally.

Emphasising how this will change the space ecosystem, Naga Bharath Daka, Co-founder and COO, Skyroot Aerospace said, “We completed the most critical testing of Vikram-1 and excited to begin integration and launch campaign activities next week at the spaceport towards this historic launch.”

Today, we have taken a step towards removing this barrier and moving closer to orbit.”

The launch is expected in the coming months, following the completion of integration operations at Sriharikota.

Vikram-1 is a multistage orbital launch vehicle designed to deploy small satellites of up to 350 kg to low Earth orbit. Standing seven storeys tall, it is built with an all-carbon composite structure and powered by in-house developed propulsion systems, including 3D-printed engines and high-thrust solid fuel rocket boosters.

The upcoming flight is the first of several planned Vikram-1 missions, which enables Skyroot to progressively advance toward regular commercial launch operations for satellite operators worldwide.

The launch will be conducted under the authorisation of IN-SPACe and with the technical oversight of ISRO.

Seamless Stays: How Digital Payments Are Redefining Hospitality Experience By Sheik Mohideen, executive vice president, Worldline India

The hospitality industry has long mastered the art of crafting memorable moments—arrival, ambience, service, and recovery. Yet one critical touchpoint has remained under designed: payments.

Checkout, often the final interaction, still feels transactional rather than experiential. When settling a hotel bill requires more effort than splitting a dinner payment on apps, the issue is not technological—it’s strategic.

A Shift Driven by Guests, Not Technology

The tools to modernize payments have existed for years. What has changed is the guest. Expectations are now shaped by seamless digital experiences across retail, transport, and finance. The payment layer in hospitality is no longer judged in isolation—it is compared to every frictionless interaction a consumer has daily.

This shift is particularly visible in India, where Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has transformed how people transact. With over billions of monthly transactions, Indian consumers are among the most payment-savvy globally. They expect speed, transparency, and simplicity—everywhere.

Structural Friction in Legacy Systems

Traditional hotel payment systems were designed for a simpler model: one guest, one card, one bill. Today’s stays are more complex—spanning rooms, dining, spa services, and shared expenses across multiple guests and payment methods.

The result is operational friction -

• Staff time lost to reconciliation errors 

• Deposit holds that linger days after checkout 

• Card declines at check-in due to system constraints, not insufficient funds 

These breakdowns undermine otherwise well-designed guest experiences.

Payments as an Experience Layer

Forward-looking hotels are rethinking payments not as backend infrastructure, but as part of the guest journey. This shift is subtle but transformative.

Consider what this looks like in practice-

• Tokenised payments at check-in: Guests register their payment method once; settlement happens automatically at departure—no queues, no interruptions. 

• QR-based dining: Orders and billing are integrated into the room account, eliminating payment friction during meals. 

• Automated pre-authorizations: Holds are released instantly upon checkout, reducing post-stay frustration. 

These capabilities are not futuristic—they are already being deployed. The difference lies in intent.

Loyalty Lives in the Details

Payment moments also present an opportunity for personalization. Automatically applying loyalty benefits or recognizing repeat guests during transactions transforms routine billing into meaningful engagement.

Guests may not always remember flawless service—but they do notice friction. More importantly, they remember when a brand anticipates their needs.

India’s Hidden Advantage

India’s hospitality sector is often framed as catching up globally, but in payments, it may already be ahead. The scale and interoperability of UPI, combined with deep banking integrations, provide a strong foundation.

An independent hotel in Kochi or Udaipur can, with the right systems, deliver a checkout experience on par with global luxury brands. The challenge is not infrastructure—it is adoption.

At the same time, hotels in India must cater to two distinct segments –

• Domestic travellers: Highly fluent in digital payments 

• International guests: Expecting multi-currency support and global card acceptance 

Modern payment platforms are increasingly equipped to serve both seamlessly.

Designing the Last Impression

The future of hospitality payments is already taking shape. Embedded finance, contactless transactions, and “invisible checkout”—where guests leave without stopping at the front desk—are becoming standard expectations.

The industry’s question is no longer whether to modernise payments, but how quickly and how thoughtfully to do so.

Because in hospitality, the final impression matters as much as the first. And the bill—long treated as an afterthought—is, in reality, a defining part of the guest experience.

Experiential Travel in Thailand: Three Distinct “Skillcations” by Four Seasons Resorts of Thailand

A new era of luxury travel is emerging in Thailand—one that prioritises purpose alongside relaxation. Shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and regional diversity, Thailand offers a natural foundation for experiential travel, where traditional knowledge systems continue to inform modern-day learning.

From the agricultural traditions of the north to the wellness practices of its islands, the country’s cultural depth and geographic diversity make it uniquely suited to skill-based travel—where craft, cuisine, community, and wellbeing are experienced through participation rather than observation. Increasingly defined as “skillcations,” this approach blends immersive learning with leisure, allowing travellers to develop new skills while connecting more meaningfully with their surroundings.

Across Northern and Southern Thailand, Four Seasons Resorts Thailand introduces a curated collection of skill-based experiences—each destination offering a distinct learning focus. From hands-on craftsmanship to cultural exploration and wellness, these programs transform traditional holidays into enriching journeys.

“Travel today is increasingly centred on connection and participation,” says Sean Mosher, General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle. “Guests are seeking experiences that offer both rest and a sense of learning.”

Craft and Culinary Skillcation: Hands-On Heritage in Northern Thailand

Set within the lush Mae Rim valley, renowned for its rich agricultural heritage and artisan traditions, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai offers a skillcation rooted in craft, agriculture, and culinary tradition—where guests learn by doing.

Experiences begin in the rice fields, where guests participate in seasonal planting alongside local farmers, gaining insight into Thailand’s agricultural rhythms. At Chaan Baan, the resort’s cultural hub, traditional crafts come to life through workshops in Saa paper making, pottery, and natural textile dyeing.

Culinary learning unfolds at Rim Tai Kitchen Cooking Academy, where guests harvest herbs directly from the garden before preparing Northern Thai dishes in an open-air setting. Complementing these hands-on sessions, guided yoga practices focus on breathwork and mindfulness, enhancing both physical and mental wellbeing. This is Thailand as a living classroom—ideal for families, cultural explorers, and creative travellers seeking meaningful, hands-on engagement.

Adventure and Indigenous Skillcation: Exploration at the Edge of Thailand

Set within one of Thailand’s most storied regions, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle offers a skillcation centred on exploration, Indigenous knowledge, and connection to nature. Here, guests engage directly with local communities through village-based experiences, including textile weaving with Tai Lue and Akha artisans. Along the Mekong River, traditional fishing techniques reveal both skill and environmental awareness, while bamboo and rattan workshops highlight the ingenuity of natural materials.

Excursions to Doi Mae Salong introduce the art of tea cultivation, from harvesting to preparation, while guided hikes and river journeys connect travellers to the dramatic terrain where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Back at camp, open-air cooking sessions led by expert chefs reflect Thailand’s traditional culinary practices, offering a deeper appreciation of flavour, technique, and environment. This is a luxury expedition—designed for adventurous travellers seeking rare, story-rich experiences rooted in place and tradition.

Wellness and Lifestyle Skillcation: Island Learning and Renewal

On the shores of Koh Samui, learning takes on a more relaxed rhythm. At Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, the School of Island Life presents a skillcation focused on wellness, creativity, and lifestyle enrichment. Guests can train in Muay Thai, learn the fundamentals of Thai massage, or engage in guided movement and tennis sessions—all designed to balance physical activity with mental clarity. Culinary workshops range from fruit carving and dessert-making to Thai classics such as curries and salads, emphasising both technique and ingredient knowledge. Creative pursuits include jasmine garland making, pottery decoration, and leaf weaving, while mixology sessions introduce flavour profiles and cocktail craftsmanship.

Beyond the resort, marine conservation programs—developed with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources—invite guests to participate in coral restoration and reef education through guided snorkelling experiences. This is a contemporary island academy—perfect for wellness seekers, couples, and solo travellers looking to recharge while gaining new skills.

A Unified Approach to Experiential Luxury

Across all three destinations, Four Seasons Resorts Thailand presents a cohesive vision of experiential travel—one defined by participation, cultural connection, and personal growth.

“We are seeing a shift toward travel that combines relaxation with meaningful engagement,” adds Jasjit Assi, General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui.

Designed for all ages and experience levels, these skillcations redefine luxury travel in Thailand—transforming each stay into an opportunity to learn, create, and connect. From craft to adventure to wellness, guests don’t just visit Thailand—they leave with new skills, deeper perspectives, and lasting memories.

Island Escapes Cultural Journeys and Culinary Discoveries: Summer Across Asia Pacific with Four Seasons

As summer unfolds across Asia Pacific, Four Seasons invites travellers to experience the season through immersive moments that celebrate exploration, culture and connection. From coral reefs and jungle valleys to vibrant global cities and culinary capitals, summer reveals the region at its most dynamic — offering travellers countless opportunities to discover something new.

Across the region, curated experiences bring guests closer to the destinations they visit. Whether encountering dolphins in the Maldives, rafting through Bali’s Ayung River, exploring Kyoto’s historic temples or discovering Singapore’s iconic street-food culture, each journey offers a distinctive way to spend time well and create stories worth retelling.

This season, guests can also enjoy the Experience More offer across participating properties, with added value through dining, wellness and curated experiences designed to enhance every stay.

“Asia Pacific offers an extraordinary range of destinations and experiences for travellers seeking meaningful journeys,” says Rami Sayess, President, Hotel Operations – Asia Pacific. “From ocean adventures and cultural discoveries to remarkable dining and restorative wellness experiences, our hotels and resorts across the region invite guests to spend their most valuable currency — time — in ways that create lasting memories.”

Summer Moments Across Asia Pacific

Across Four Seasons destinations, the season comes alive through unforgettable experiences:

• Watching dolphins leap across the turquoise waters of the Maldives during a Dolphin Cruise

• Rafting through Bali’s lush Ayung River valley on a guided river adventure

• Exploring Kyoto’s temple gardens and historic neighbourhoods

• Cruising Osaka’s Dojima River at sunset

• Discovering Singapore’s vibrant street food culture

• Training in Muay Thai nestled in Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River district

Seaside Escapes and Urban Discovery

From island retreats to vibrant cities, summer invites travellers to explore Asia Pacific in all its diversity.

Along Bali’s southern coast, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay offers beachfront villas and a deep connection to the island’s coastal culture. In the Maldives, the pristine marine environments surrounding Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa and Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru invite travellers to explore coral reefs, island lagoons and vibrant marine life.

Along Vietnam’s central coast, Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai blends beachfront tranquillity with access to the lantern-lit streets and cultural heritage of historic Hoi An.

For travellers drawn to Asia’s great cities, vibrant urban discoveries await at destinations such as Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Four Seasons Hotel Shenzhen — dynamic gateways to culture, shopping and contemporary dining.

In Japan, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi welcomes guests this summer with newly renovated rooms and suites, and refreshed public spaces, offering an intimate base for exploring the capital’s vibrant neighbourhoods and culinary scene. Nearby, Four Seasons Hotel Osaka introduces travellers to one of Japan’s most exciting food cities, where lively districts and riverfront experiences reveal the city’s creative energy.

Exceptional Villas and Private Escapes

For travellers seeking space and privacy, Four Seasons offers an exceptional collection of villas and residential-style accommodations across Asia Pacific.

Set within a lush river valley, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan offers a tranquil jungle sanctuary where wellness rituals, cultural immersion and nature come together in a deeply personal way. Designed for longer stays and multigenerational travel, villas and residential-style accommodations across the region provide the comfort and flexibility of a private home.

For the ultimate private retreat, travellers can reserve the entire Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah — an exclusive island sanctuary within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where guests enjoy unparalleled privacy alongside personalized service and extraordinary marine adventures.

Dream-Worthy Experiences Across Asia Pacific

Across the region, curated experiences invite travellers to explore the landscapes, traditions and flavours that define each destination.

Aquatic Escapades

Water shapes many of Asia Pacific’s most memorable summer adventures. Travellers can explore one of the world’s most pristine marine environments aboard Four Seasons Explorer Palau, where diving, snorkelling and island exploration reveal the richness of the Pacific.

Wellness

Summer offers opportunities to restore balance and reconnect with body and mind. From spiritual rituals in Bali to movement-based practices and mindful experiences across the region, wellness becomes a natural part of the journey — integrated into each destination’s landscape and cultural traditions.

Cultural Exploration

Across the region, immersive cultural journeys invite travellers to connect more deeply with place. Guests can explore Kyoto’s historic temples through experiences curated by Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, discover the stories of the Korean peninsula through a guided DMZ experience arranged by Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, or walk along one of the world’s most iconic landmarks during curated journeys from Four Seasons Hotel Beijing. In Tokyo, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi offers curated experiences that connect guests with the city’s culinary and cultural heritage.

Culinary Destinations

Across Asia Pacific, Four Seasons continues to shape the region’s dynamic culinary landscape.

At Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, travellers can experience one of the world’s most celebrated dining destinations, home to Michelin-recognized restaurants including Lung King Heen and Caprice. Along the Chao Phraya River, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River offers vibrant dining venues where innovative cuisine meets spectacular waterfront views.

Throughout Asia Pacific, chefs celebrate seasonal ingredients and regional traditions, inviting travellers to explore the creativity and flavours that define the region’s extraordinary dining culture.

A Season of Discovery

From coral reefs in the Maldives and jungle sanctuaries in Bali to cultural capitals such as Kyoto and culinary destinations including Hong Kong and Bangkok, summer across Asia Pacific offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Each journey becomes an opportunity to spend time meaningfully — creating moments that stay with travellers long after the season ends.

Wyndham Marks 20th ECHO Suites Opening, Underscoring Rapid Extended Stay Growth

Milestone opening in Bozeman, Montana highlights strong developer demand and Wyndham’s expanding extended stay platform

HIGHLIGHTS

• Wyndham Hotels & Resorts opened its 20th all-new construction ECHO Suites® Extended Stay hotel in Bozeman, Montana, highlighting rapid nationwide growth since the brand’s 2024 launch. 
  Hotels open six months or more are, on average, exceeding 70% occupancy based on results through Q1 2026. Over the same period, many of the most established locations are exceeding 80% occupancy with RevPAR index levels above 100% against a comp set comprised of primarily midscale-and-above hotels.

• With nearly one dozen new construction projects underway, and continued demand from long-term guests including project-based workers and relocations, Wyndham is targeting a long-term goal of 300 ECHO Suites locations by 2032, reinforcing extended stay as a key growth driver
  
  

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (April , 2026) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has reached a key growth milestone with the opening of the 20th ECHO Suites® Extended Stay by Wyndham hotel, underscoring the rapid expansion of one of the hospitality industry’s fastest-growing, all-new construction, extended stay brands. The latest opening, in Bozeman, Montana, builds on a wave of recent debuts in Springfield, Missouri; Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Round Rock, Texas, as the brand continues to expand nationwide.

Launched in 2024, ECHO Suites was designed from the ground up with input from some of the industry’s largest and most successful institutional extended stay developers. As demand for such accommodations accelerates, driven by workforce mobility, infrastructure investment and longer-term travel trends, the brand has quickly demonstrated strong performance. On average, hotels open six months or more are seeing occupancy of over 70%, based on results through Q1 2026, with the most established locations seeing above 80%.

The 20-hotel milestone reflects growing confidence in the brand’s efficient new construction prototype and operating model and reinforces Wyndham’s commitment to extended stay as the lodging industry’s fastest-growing segment. Including contributions from Wyndham’s midscale Hawthorn Extended Stay® by Wyndham brand and its upscale WaterWalk® by Wyndham brand, 2025 was a significant year for Wyndham’s extended stay portfolio with over 60 new executions—including 20 under ECHO Suites—growing the pipeline to approximately 45,000 rooms.

“We set out to reach 300 executed contracts by 2027 and we’ve already exceeded our goal. Opening 20 ECHO Suites hotels in such a short time—including our latest opening in Bozeman, in the heart of Montana’s Big Sky Country—speaks to the brand’s momentum and strong developer confidence. With industry analysts projecting nearly 10% growth through 2030, extended stay remains a compelling opportunity, and ECHO is proving that a purpose-built, developer-informed model can deliver strong returns while meeting the needs of today’s long-term guests.”

-Mike Mueller, President, Extended Stay Brands, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

Engineered for efficiency, ECHO Suites hotels average approximately 50,000 square feet, nearly 74% of which is rentable space, and guest rooms averaging about 300 square feet. More than 70% of stays exceed seven nights, with over half extending beyond 60 days, reflecting demand from project-based business travelers, relocations and other long-term guests. A majority of hotels open more than a year are consistently outperforming their competitive sets, with RevPAR index levels above 100%.

“When we looked at Bozeman, we saw a clear opportunity to introduce a purpose-built extended stay concept that meets the needs of today’s travelers, and ECHO Suites perfectly aligned with that vision. Equally important was the strength of Wyndham behind the brand, from their proven model to the hands-on support and extensive distribution network, which made moving forward with the project an easy decision, creating a standout addition to the local hospitality market.”

– Paige York, Owner and Developer, ECHO Suites Extended Stay Bozeman

Looking ahead, Wyndham expects continued acceleration for the brand, with approximately one dozen additional ECHO Suites hotels currently under development and a long-term target of 300 hotels open or under construction by 2032.

The growth of ECHO and Wyndham’s broader extended stay portfolio is supported by the Wyndham Advantage, including more than $425 million invested in technology over the past eight years and industry-leading AI-driven tools such as Wyndham Connect. Together, these capabilities are designed to help franchisees lower labor costs at the property level, drive significant incremental ancillary upsell revenues and increase AI-assisted direct bookings.

Continued long-term infrastructure investment is expected to remain a key driver of developer interest and guest demand. With expected multi-year federal spending of approximately $1.5 trillion—driven by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and CHIPS and Science Act—Wyndham estimates a $3.3 billion incremental room revenue opportunity for its franchisees, underscoring why the extended stay segment remains a central pillar of the Company’s growth strategy.