IHG has signed a management agreement with So Hotels to develop InterContinental Kasauli, set to open in 1Q2029. The resort will cater to leisure guests and provide a venue for weddings and MICE business.
Located in the Shivalik hills, InterContinental Kasauli will offer views of the Himalayas and easy access from Chandigarh and Shimla, making it a suitable destination for both leisure travellers and corporate events.
InterContinental Kasauli will open in 1Q2029
The resort will feature around 130 guestrooms and a range of amenities, including Concierge Galleries that provide local cultural insights, and event venues. With Holiday Inn Resort Kasauli also in development, both resorts aim to enhance leisure travel in Northern India.
“We are confident that InterContinental Kasauli will set a new benchmark for hospitality in the region,” said Ojas Garg, managing partner, So Hotels.
Sudeep Jain, managing director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, added: “With its strategic location, picturesque views, and world-class amenities, the hotel will offer an exceptional experience for travellers seeking relaxation, exclusive getaways, or even business engagements. As Kasauli continues to attract discerning travellers, InterContinental Kasauli will elevate the hospitality landscape in the region.”
The Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group will mark Singapore’s 60th year of independence with SG60-themed initiatives from April to December 2025, as part of its Celebrating with Singapore campaign.
Customers can access SG60 fare deals for Singapore Airlines and Scoot flights, bonus miles on Scoot flights, and additional discounts during KrisFlyer’s August Spontaneous Escapes promotions.
SIA will offer special deals, local experiences, and community initiatives as part of its SG60 celebrations from April to December this year
There will also be SG60 voucher offers on the Kris+ app, KrisShop, and Pelago. KrisWorld, SIA’s in-flight entertainment system, will include content on Singapore’s history, arts, and culture in the Celebrating Singapore category from now to December. The airline will also serve local dishes on selected flights and in SilverKris lounges.
In addition, Scoot will launch a limited-edition aircraft model in partnership with Lasalle College of the Arts in Singapore. The design is inspired by patterns and colours from South-east Asia and Scoot’s destinations, and will be sold on Scoot flights and KrisShop from August.
Furthermore, the SIA Group aims to raise S$1.3 million (US$960,000) through an SG60 fundraising campaign by engaging partners and staff. The group will match this amount, donating a total of S$2.6 million (US$1.92 million) to the Asian Women’s Welfare Association and Rainbow Centre, which support children and youth with disabilities and developmental needs.
On July 19-20, SIA will hold a two-day SIA Cares Open House for over 600 beneficiaries from social service agencies in Singapore, including individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds and youth at risk, offering a tour of SIA’s training centre.
Goh Choon Phong, CEO, Singapore Airlines, said: “As we celebrate Singapore’s 60-year nation-building journey, the SIA Group is deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our customers and the Singapore public. Our story is intertwined with Singapore’s growth and progress as a country, and the Celebrating with Singapore campaign is our way of expressing gratitude, giving back to the community, and marking SG60 meaningfully.”
Kalkudah Beach House, Sri Lanka
Kalkudah Beach House is a beachfront retreat on Sri Lanka’s East Coast, featuring restored Dutch-style arches that open into spacious living areas, blending seamlessly with lush gardens and the Indian Ocean.
The five-bedroom property is nestled within a secluded coconut grove and offers two villas – the Main House and Palm Villa – surrounding a tropical pool, with direct access to a stretch of coastline.
Guests can enjoy various experiences, including diving and snorkelling at vibrant coral reefs, whale and dolphin watching from May to August, and cultural exploration just an hour away from the Cultural Triangle, including sites like Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Polonnaruwa. Local excursions such as visiting the Dutch Fort in Batticaloa or taking sunset cruises in Kalkudah Bay offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Kalkudah Beach House combines sustainability with elegance, incorporating eco-friendly features like solar power and rainwater harvesting. The menu highlights East Coast flavours, including Batticaloa-style crab curry and Jaffna seafood stew.
Zana By The Ganges, Rishikesh
Zana By The Ganges, Rishikesh, India
Zana By The Ganges is just a short walk from Lakshman Jhula, featuring views of the Ganges and surrounding hills.
The Celebrity Suites provide a 180-degree view of the Ganges, a private Jacuzzi, and spacious interiors.
The rooftop restaurant, Marshmallow, serves regional and international dishes in small plates, with views of the hills and river. Guests can enjoy the rooftop pool, take part in yoga sessions, attend evening aartis (religious ritual), or engage in activities such as river rafting, trekking, and birdwatching. The Veda Ballroom, with a space of 325m², can accommodate up to 180 guests and boasts views of the Ganges.
Waldorf Astoria Osaka
Waldorf Astoria Osaka, Japan
Waldorf Astoria Osaka has opened with 252 rooms, offering panoramic skyline views. Situated in the Umekita District, it is close to Shinsaibashi’s boutiques, Dotonbori’s culinary scene, and Osaka Castle, with easy access to JR Osaka Station and connections to Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe.
The hotel occupies the top floors of the South Park Tower at Grand Green Osaka. Rooms, including two penthouse suites and a Presidential Suite, offer 360-degree views from the 31st to 38th floors.
Waldorf Astoria Osaka offers personal concierge services, family programmes, 24-hour in-room dining, and event venues. It also offers wellness services such as tailored treatments, an indoor pool, and thermal experiences.
Novotel New Delhi City Centre
Novotel New Delhi City Centre, India
Strategically located near key business hubs, shopping destinations and cultural landmarks, the 124-key Novotel New Delhi City Centre offers guests connectivity and convenience.
The hotel offers over 929m² of flexible event space, including a large Ballroom. It also features an all-day dining restaurant, Gourmet Bar, rooftop bar, infinity pool, and wellness facilities.
Tourism Malaysia has launched the Turtle Discovery Experience, an eco-tourism initiative that allows travellers to explore Malaysia’s marine wildlife while supporting the conservation of endangered green sea turtles, including participating in their release into the wild.
This two-day, one-night package takes guests to Redang Island, located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia in Terengganu. The island is known for its clear waters, beaches, coral reefs, and opportunities to observe marine wildlife, including sea turtles.
The Turtle Discovery Experience lets participants support green sea turtle conservation while exploring Malaysia’s vibrant marine life
The Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary, located on Redang Island in the South China Sea, is a key nesting site for sea turtles, particularly the endangered baby green sea turtle. Visitors can learn about marine life and join in conservation efforts, including releasing baby green sea turtles into the sea, offering a rewarding experience while helping protect these turtles.
The sanctuary was designated a protected area by the Terengganu state government in 2005, and hosts between 700 and 1,700 turtle nests annually, with peak nesting from May to July. It focuses on protecting Green and Hawksbill turtles through population monitoring and nest protection.
The Turtle Discovery Trip offers a unique eco-tourism experience for families, friends, and groups of up to 150 people. The trip includes return transfers from Kuantan and stays in a three-star hotel with breakfast. From there, guests travel to Redang Island, where they can take part in sea turtle conservation efforts, including releasing baby green turtles to help protect the species – a hands-on experience that supports marine life preservation.
The trip also allows visitors to explore Malaysia’s coastal ecosystems, far from crowded areas – a great way to learn about marine heritage while making a positive impact on conservation.
Prices start from just 99 pounds (US$126.95) per person, based on two sharing on a bed and breakfast basis.
Work begins this month on a new large-scale commercial complex at Fukuoka Airport in northern Kyushu, part of the ongoing expansion of the hub amid an increase in passengers.
Fukuoka is Japan’s fourth busiest airport, handling 25 million passengers in fiscal 2023, following Haneda, Narita, and Kansai, according to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
Fukuoka Airport embarks on a new 11-storey project, aimed at expanding retail and hospitality offerings to meet growing demand
The development follows the opening of a second runway at the airport in March to ease congestion. With both runways, the airport can now accommodate 188,000 take-off and landing slots annually, up from 176,000 in 2024.
The new runway will primarily be used for international flight take-offs. A new airport control tower, along with a renovated international passenger terminal, were also completed last month.
Now, efforts are focused on the new complex, scheduled to open in summer 2027. The 11-storey facility will feature 180 new shops, bringing the total number of shops at the airport to about 270, making it one of the largest retail centres of any airport in Japan.
With the theme of a “travelling airport,” the F&B offerings will showcase Fukuoka’s local delicacies and Asian cuisine, reflecting the city’s role as a gateway to the continent.
The upper floors of the building will house the 165-room Solaria Nishitestu Hotel, a boutique brand focused on business and leisure travel, with direct airport access.
“This will truly be a year of growth,” said Shinji Tagawa, president of Fukuoka International Airport.
Hyatt Hotels Corporation is building on its 2024 deal momentum with an expansion plan that includes seven new hotels set to open in 2025. This follows the signing of agreements for 21 new properties across India and South-west Asia in 2024, strengthening Hyatt’s position in the region.
Looking ahead, Hyatt’s growth in 2025 will include new properties in Ghaziabad, Kasauli, Kochi, Bhopal, Vithalapur, Jaipur, and Butwal (Nepal). These locations represent a mix of business, religious, and leisure travel, catering to both domestic and international travellers.
Hyatt is expanding in India and Nepal, with a target of 100 hotels in India by 2029; Hyatt Centric Hebbal Bengaluru, pictured
Hyatt aims to have 100 hotels in India within the next five years, contributing to the country’s expanding hospitality sector.
Hyatt’s 2024 growth included key signings across various segments. The company plans hotels in business hubs like Gift City, Greater Noida, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. It is also expanding into leisure and cultural destinations such as Vrindavan, Kumbhalgarh, Katra, Kandaghat, Jim Corbett National Park, and Pushkar, as well as popular getaway spots like Goa and Jaipur.
Hyatt is also growing its Lifestyle Portfolio in India with new Andaz and JdV by Hyatt properties, and expanded in Nepal with two new signings with plans to introduce its 10th brand in India, Destination by Hyatt.
Hyatt currently operates 52 hotels across South-west Asia, with 50 in India and two in Nepal, covering nine distinct brands. The company recently reached the milestone of 10,000 keys in the region.
“2024 marked a watershed year for Hyatt in India and South-west Asia, with unprecedented growth and the successful signing of 21 new properties across diverse markets,” said Sunjae Sharma, managing director, India & Southwest Asia, Hyatt.
“As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited to build on this momentum with even more aggressive expansion plans, and a goal of 100 hotels in India within the next five years reflecting our confidence in the region’s potential and our commitment to being a leader in the hospitality industry in India.”
Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) will host Singapore’s first The Luxury Collection branded property, set to open in 3Q2025. Developed in collaboration with Marriott International, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, will offer a private, all-suite hotel with 183 rooms, available for bookings from May 2025.
Named after the laurel leaves traditionally used to crown victors, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, is a five-storey hotel with 183 suites, located at the edge of a tropical forest next to RWS.
The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort blends Singapore’s tropical charm with colonial elegance, offering guests a luxurious home away from home; photo by Resorts World Sentosa
The resort offers 183 suites across five floors, along with courtyard spaces and a function room for events and ceremonies. Each suite is designed with quality bedding, furnishings, and simple monochromatic accents. The property also includes a bar, outdoor swimming pool, spa, and an all-day dining restaurant.
Embracing the idea that the best journeys bring one home, this space welcomes guests like the residence of a traveller. Blending Singapore’s tropical charm with colonial style, it offers guests a place to explore and enjoy a home away from home.
Tan Hee Teck, CEO of RWS, stated: “The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, embodies the very essence of our ongoing pivot to offer curated destination experiences as part of RWS’ transformational expansion plans. We are thrilled to invite guests to immerse themselves in Singapore’s rich heritage, reconnect with the captivating beauty of Sentosa’s lush flora and fauna while experiencing RWS’ hallmark hospitality, defined by unparalleled sophistication, outstanding quality and innovation.”
“Marriott International is pleased to collaborate with RWS to introduce The Luxury Collection brand to Singapore. Drawing inspiration from Singapore’s storied past and rich cultural heritage, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, will celebrate the essence of the city, and we look forward to welcoming global explorers and collectors to experience Singapore’s captivating charm through the lens of our brand,” said Rajeev Menon, president, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International.
Cordelia Cruises, India’s premier cruise line, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) have officially signed an agreement for the transfer of Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun to Cordelia’s growing fleet.
These additions mark a significant milestone in Cordelia’s journey to make cruise holidays more accessible, aspirational, and world-class for Indian travellers.
Cordelia Cruises adds Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun to its fleet
Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun, both part of NCL’s Sun-class series, bring with them a legacy of world-class cruising, thoughtful design, and guest comfort. Each ship is capable of accommodating around 2,000 guests and 900 crew members. Together, they will more than double Cordelia’s current capacity and enable the brand to explore new regions and offer broader, more immersive cruise experiences.
One of the most significant upgrades with this expansion is the improved mix of stateroom categories. Both ships feature over 1,000 cabins each, including a selection of accommodation from solo staterooms to balconies and suites. Guests can look forward to an elevated onboard experience with multiple speciality dining venues, theatre and entertainment venues, casinos, wellness centre, shops, arcade, pools, sun decks, fitness zone, and dedicated children’s and family entertainment areas. These sister ships are known for their spacious layouts, warm ambience, and versatility –catering seamlessly to both short getaways and longer destination-focused itineraries.
Since her launch in 2021, Cordelia Empress has welcomed over 600,000 guests across 450+ sailings, offering a uniquely Indian cruising experience.
Cordelia Cruises will soon announce deployment timelines and destinations for the two new ships, with plans to serve a mix of domestic and international routes. The addition of these ships will enable the cruise line to reach more ports across India, South-east Asia, and the Middle East, opening doors to longer itineraries, increased frequency, and a more diverse and enriched guest experience.
Jurgen Bailom, president and CEO of Cordelia Cruises, said: “With the addition of NorwegianSky and NorwegianSun, we are entering a new era of cruise holidays for Indian guests – one that is bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever before.”
Oceania Cruises has launched its 2026-2027 Tropics and Exotics Collection, featuring over 120 itineraries. The sailings will be available for booking from April 10.
The 2026-2027 Tropics and Exotics Collection offers a range of voyages, from one-week getaways to expansive 244-day expeditions, including Oceania Vista’s Around the World journey. The itineraries take travellers to a diverse array of destinations, from lesser-known ports in Africa and India to the Arabian Peninsula and South Pacific islands.
Oceania Vista in port of Roseau, Dominica; photo by Oceania Cruises
Designed for those looking for more than just a trip, these sailings provide the chance to explore some of the world’s most captivating regions. The collection also includes nearly 30 Grand Voyages, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the cultures and landscapes of Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, South America, and Oceania.
The 2026-2027 Tropics and Exotics Collection features a range of global voyages. In the Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Mexico, sailings aboard Oceania Marina, Oceania Vista, and Oceania Allura visit destinations like St Kitts, Bonaire, and Guadeloupe.
Oceania Insignia will explore South America, including Rio de Janeiro, Montevideo, and Patagonia, with a journey along the Amazon River. Nearly 30 sailings to Asia and Africa aboard Oceania Riviera, Oceania Nautica, Oceania Sirena, and Oceania Vista visit cities such as Hong Kong and Singapore.
South Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand itineraries offer trips to islands and the Great Barrier Reef. The collection also includes Grand Voyages ranging from 17 to 68 days, with Oceania Vista hosting a 180-day Around the World cruise in 2027. Shorter regional segments are also available.
Mimaru Apartment Hotels will reopen its popular Pokémon Room on July 1 this year. With the relaunch, the number of participating locations will increase to 10 across Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Reservations for the new Pokémon Room will open on April 21.
The revamped Pokémon Room reopens at Mimaru on July 1, with reservations starting April 21
The relaunch will feature a redesigned room, bringing the Pokémon world to life in a new way. This includes a life-sized Snorlax plush on the bed and Pokémon-themed walls, as well as exclusive kitchenware like Poké Ball-designed plates and mugs.
Over 100 Pokémon are featured throughout the space – water-type Pokémon decorate the bathroom, while food-loving Pokémon are found in the kitchen. Guests can also enjoy an exclusive Pokémon-themed recipe set, available only in Mimaru’s Pokémon Room, for a fun and interactive cooking experience.
The Mimaru Original Pokémon Room goods collection is designed for the whole family, with a touch of Japanese flair. It will include a laundry bag, drawstring bag, small purse, and stickers, with one set provided per family per reservation. The items will also feature five hidden Pokémon, offering a charming keepsake to take home.
The Pokémon Rooms are available at the following locations: Mimaru Tokyo Ueno East, Mimaru Tokyo Hatchobori, Mimaru Tokyo Ginza East, Mimaru Tokyo Kinshicho (new), Mimaru Tokyo Ikebukuro (new), Mimaru Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo, Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo, Mimaru Kyoto Nishinotoin Takatsuji, Mimaru Kyoto Station, and Mimaru Osaka Namba North.
Updates will be available on the website on April 21.
