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.

India has solidified its status as a global hub for luxury destination weddings, thanks to its breathtaking palaces, scenic beaches, and heritage forts that set the perfect stage for extravagant celebrations. As the demand for meticulously curated weddings continues to soar, a select group of wedding planners have distinguished themselves with their expertise, creativity, and flawless execution, ensuring that each celebration is a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. These planners have mastered the art of turning wedding dreams into reality, offering customized experiences that redefine luxury.

The Wedding Company, based in Bengaluru, is leading the charge with its technology-driven approach. By introducing India’s first Instant Wedding Proposal Tool, this platform revolutionizes wedding planning by instantly offering venue suggestions, decor themes, and budget plans. The company was founded with the vision of simplifying the planning process by integrating cutting-edge technology and providing end-to-end services, making dream weddings effortless.

Meraki Weddings, headquartered in Goa, has made a name for itself by curating personalized and bespoke destination weddings. Their expertise lies in crafting intimate yet grand celebrations, paying meticulous attention to detail and ensuring that each couple’s unique vision is brought to life. Their work reflects a blend of artistic design and thoughtful execution, making them a sought-after name in the industry.

Seven Steps Wedding, based in Mumbai, has become synonymous with high-profile and celebrity weddings. Known for orchestrating lavish events for Bollywood stars and business tycoons, they specialize in transforming stunning locations like Venice, Udaipur, and Goa into opulent wedding venues. Their mastery in curating visually breathtaking and flawlessly managed celebrations has made them a top choice among India’s elite.

Wed Gurus, another Mumbai-based planner, seamlessly merges innovation with timeless traditions. Their collaborations with renowned designers like Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla bring a touch of couture and grandeur to every wedding. With an impressive portfolio spanning destinations such as Jodhpur, London, and the Maldives, Wed Gurus ensures that every couple enjoys a wedding experience that is both stylish and unforgettable.

Tamarind Global Weddings has carved a niche in the industry by offering personalized and detail-oriented wedding experiences. Based in Mumbai, their expertise extends across India and international destinations, creating seamless and elegant celebrations tailored to the couple’s dreams. With a strong emphasis on customization and impeccable execution, they transform every wedding into a refined and extraordinary affair.

These five wedding planners have redefined the luxury wedding landscape in India, blending innovation, grandeur, and flawless execution to create unforgettable celebrations. Whether it’s a royal palace wedding, a beachfront ceremony, or an international spectacle, these industry leaders ensure that every couple’s dream wedding becomes a magnificent reality.