In a landmark moment of cultural diplomacy, Rambagh Palace, Jaipur’s crown jewel, Rambagh Palace will host US Vice President James David Vance, his family, and a 20-member White House delegation on April 23. The high-profile visit is being celebrated with a grand dinner in collaboration with IRIS Jaipur, renowned for its handcrafted, gold-plated metalware. Following its acclaimed showcase at the G20 Summit, IRIS Jaipur once again has the honour of serving foreign dignitaries.

The dinner will be held in the palace’s opulent 18th-century ballroom, Suvarna Mahal. A custom-designed collection of gold-plated dinner sets, tableware, cutlery, serve ware and trolley crafted by IRIS Jaipur, will headline the banquet, reflecting a seamless blend of traditional Rajasthani artistry and modern luxury.

Each guest will receive a golden napkin ring as a keepsake, engraved with their names on one side and Rambagh Palace Jaipur on the other side. The culinary showcase, presented on bespoke dinner sets, snack stands, hollowware, and barware, will highlight India’s gastronomic heritage with dishes prepared by Rambagh’s top chefs.

A red-carpet walkway flanked by mirror-polished golden pipes crafted by IRIS’s metal artisans, creates a shimmering prelude, setting the tone for the regal evening. Antique brass welcome trolleys, lotus design trays with bowls, and garland stands will enhance the arrival experience with rich visual storytelling rooted in Jaipur’s artisanal traditions.

Jaipur's IRIS artisans bring diplomatic hospitality to life at Rambagh Palace, showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage while adding a personal touch to the grandeur of the U.S. Vice President’s visit.

IRIS’s relationship with Rambagh spans decades, with its creations gracing the palace’s grandest suites and dining halls. This latest showcase, co-led by Ashok Rathore, General Manager of Rambagh Palace, and Rajeev Pabuwal, continues a legacy of reviving traditional craftsmanship for discerning global audiences.

As diplomacy unfolds over dinner, Jaipur stands tall not just as a cultural capital but as a beacon of craft-led global engagement.

Travelling is one of the most powerful and enriching experiences in life. It opens the door to meeting new people, exploring different cultures, and creating unforgettable memories. But one major decision that can shape your entire trip is whether to travel alone or with a group. As Mr. Sandeep Singh, Founder of Rubystone Hospitality, points out, both these choices have their own strengths and limitations, and what you choose depends on your personality, travel goals, and convenience.

Solo travel offers complete freedom. It gives you the chance to plan your day your way, visit places you love at your own pace, and enjoy the kind of flexibility that’s hard to find in group plans. It also gives you a chance to step out of your comfort zone, meet new people on your own terms, and enjoy moments of genuine self-discovery. Many hotels and resorts now understand the needs of individual travellers and are offering tailored experiences, single-occupancy rates, and co-living options that help solo travellers connect with others. Homestays, hostels, and boutique hotels often have shared spaces where like-minded travellers cross paths, making the journey less lonely and more interactive.

However, solo travel isn’t without its challenges. Since there’s no one to split expenses with, costs can add up quickly. Safety can also be a concern, especially in unfamiliar or remote areas. Planning everything by yourself might sometimes feel overwhelming, and longer trips can lead to occasional bouts of loneliness.

On the other hand, travelling in a group whether with friends, family, or on a guided tour comes with a different set of benefits. It’s usually more cost-effective, as expenses for accommodation and travel can be shared. Safety is another plus, being in a group means there’s always someone to lean on if something doesn’t go as planned. Hotels and resorts often have group packages, special rates, and family-friendly rooms to accommodate larger groups. Travel becomes more engaging when you can share the experience with others, and many hospitality brands now add value through group activities like guided tours, private dinners, or exclusive outings. But group travel also needs compromise. Everyone has different interests, so it might be tough to create a plan that satisfies all. Coordination between multiple people can delay decisions, and you may lose the chance for spontaneous plans. In some cases, large groups may struggle with getting last-minute bookings at popular spots, requiring early planning, which could take away some of the adventure.

So how do you decide what suits you better? It entirely depends on your goals. If you’re someone who loves independence, wants to explore at your own pace, and is open to discovering more about yourself, solo travel might be the way to go - especially now that hospitality spaces are adapting to support solo adventurers. But if you enjoy shared experiences, value the comfort of familiar company, and are looking for a more cost-effective and safe option, then group travel could be your best choice. In the end, both solo and group travel have something meaningful to offer. You might even choose one over the other depending on where you’re going or what the trip is about. What matters most is embracing the journey fully and making the most of every moment, whichever way you choose to go.

The global food industry is witnessing a remarkable rise in the demand for skilled chefs, making 2025 a great time for culinary professionals to explore opportunities abroad. Driven by the growth of food tourism, evolving tastes, and a surge in both fine dining and casual eateries, chefs are more sought after than ever before. Ashish Tiwari, Executive Chef at ANDAAZ Banquets and Caterers, New Jersey shares the list of Several countries that are now opening doors to talented culinary experts from across the world, offering exciting careers, stable work environments, and cultural exposure. The United States remains a popular destination for chefs, with cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago known for their diverse and dynamic food culture. The rise of farm-to-table dining, vegan trends, and fusion cuisine has created more openings for chefs with various specialties. Many restaurants are addressing labor shortages by hiring from abroad and sponsoring work visas. Canada, with its welcoming immigration policies and multicultural cities like Toronto and Vancouver, provides promising prospects through programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program. Its growing appreciation for global cuisines and numerous food festivals add further opportunities. The United Kingdom also presents strong career options, especially in cities such as London, Manchester, and Edinburgh, where the hospitality sector is facing staff shortages. With chefs now listed on the UK’s Shortage Occupation List, it is easier for international professionals to secure work visas. There’s also a high demand for chefs skilled in Indian, Thai, and Mediterranean cooking. Australia continues to shine with thriving food scenes in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. With chefs on the Skilled Occupation List and work visas available under the General Skilled Migration program, those with expertise in sustainable, plant-based, or health-conscious cooking find plenty of opportunities. In the Middle East, the UAE stands out as a destination with attractive salaries, tax-free income, and a luxurious culinary scene. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer high-paying roles for chefs who specialize in fine dining, international fusion, and high-end catering. Germany, too, is opening its doors to international culinary talent. Its growing demand in cities like Berlin and Munich is backed by skilled worker visas and apprenticeship programs. The country’s food landscape is evolving with a keen interest in international flavors. Singapore remains a culinary hotspot with its blend of traditional street food and fine dining. It offers great scope for chefs who have expertise in sought-after cuisines like Japanese, French, or Peranakan, especially in luxury hotels and corporate kitchens. New Zealand, known for its emphasis on local and sustainable ingredients, is facing a shortage of chefs in cities like Auckland and Queenstown. The Essential Skills Work Visa program makes it easier for chefs to work there, especially those experienced in farm-to-table or Māori cuisine. France continues to be a culinary dream destination, with a rich tradition of gastronomy upheld in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux. Though competitive, chefs trained in classic French techniques find rewarding careers in Michelin-starred restaurants and pastry houses. Japan rounds out the list, with its globally admired culinary discipline and growing demand for chefs skilled in traditional techniques like sushi, ramen, and kaiseki. Cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto offer opportunities for those who can adapt to the unique kitchen culture and maintain high standards. Overall, 2025 offers an exciting global stage for chefs to showcase their skills, learn new techniques, and grow in their careers. Whether it’s crafting gourmet dishes in a French bistro or experimenting with fusion in a vibrant Singaporean kitchen, the world is full of flavors waiting to be explored by passionate culinary professionals.