A New Era of Luxury in Nellore: Unveiling Royal Orchid's Regenta Inn Bhavani

A New Era of Luxury in Nellore: Unveiling Royal Orchid's Regenta Inn Bhavani

By Author

Published on December 22, 2023

Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels continues its expansion across India with the opening of its latest gem, the Regenta Inn Bhavani in Nellore. This property, with its 41 rooms including six luxurious suites, perfectly encapsulates the essence of luxury and convenience for both business and leisure travelers.

Situated in a prime location, Regenta Inn Bhavani is just minutes away from Nellore’s central bus stand, a 15-minute drive from the central train station, and a three-hour drive from Tirupati Airport. For those coming from Bengaluru, it’s an accessible 8-hour drive. This strategic positioning allows for effortless travel and exploration of the region's cultural and commercial hubs.

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Chander K. Baljee, Chairman and Managing Director of Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels, highlights the hotel's mission to offer an unparalleled experience that mirrors Nellore’s dynamic spirit. He emphasizes the hotel’s commitment to providing an experience that is both luxurious and reflective of the local culture.

Nellore, nestled on the banks of the Penna River, is a city of contrasts, blending traditional charm with modern dynamism. It’s known for its spiritual richness, showcased in numerous temples, and its cultural significance in retail, particularly the famous Venkatagiri sarees representing the region's rich textile heritage.

Regenta Inn Bhavani is conveniently located near key attractions like Mypadu Beach, Sri Ranganathaswamy and Penchalakona Temples, and the City Shopping Area. This makes it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and indulge in retail therapy.

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Philip Logan, COO of Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels, speaks of curating an experience that resonates with Nellore’s unique character. The hotel aims to foster a deep connection with the local heritage, offering guests a true taste of the city's spirit.

For event planners, Regenta Inn Bhavani offers versatile spaces perfect for MICE activities. The pillar-less banquet halls, combined with bespoke décor, promise to make every event memorable.

The opening of Regenta Inn Bhavani by Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels is more than just an addition to their portfolio; it's a celebration of Nellore's vibrant culture, strategic location, and the brand's unwavering dedication to excellence in hospitality.


1.5 Degree Expands Plant-Based Portfolio with New Beverages, Sundaes, Kulfi, and Popsicles

1.5 Degree Expands Plant-Based Portfolio with New Beverages, Sundaes, Kulfi, and Popsicles

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

1.5 Degree, India’s leading plant-based dairy alternative brand, has unveiled an exciting new range of signature beverages, frozen sundaes, traditional kulfis, and refreshing popsicles this festive season. The announcement comes on the heels of the company securing seed funding from BITS Pilani and being recognised among its top emerging startups.

The new collection reflects 1.5 Degree’s philosophy of combining indulgence with responsibility. Designed for the conscious consumer, the range features sugar-free café-style beverages like Kesar Badam, Salted Pistachio, Hazelnut Coffee, and Cold Vegan Tea, crafted for refreshing, guilt-free sips.

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The Frozen Sundaes promise rich, layered indulgence in flavours like Salted Peanut Butter and Nutty Choco Fudge, while the Kulfi Collection, also sugar-free, reimagines the classic Indian favourite with plant-based innovation. The Popsicle lineup includes fruity and tangy favourites such as Chilly Guava, Jamun, and Shikanji, complemented by rotating seasonal sorbets for an extra-refreshing twist.

“At 1.5 Degree, we believe in indulgence without compromise,” said Vedansh Goyal, Founder of 1.5Degree.co. “With the overwhelming response to our gelatos, this new range brings familiar Indian favourites like kulfi and shikanji into the plant-based space, while also offering global café-style beverages, now with sugar-free options that keep taste front and centre.”

All products are 100% plant-based, dairy-free, lactose-free, and cholesterol-free, made using natural ingredients without artificial additives or preservatives. Ethically sourced and responsibly produced, the brand reinforces its mission to support a cooler planet while offering full-flavoured experiences.

1.5 Degree’s new offerings are available across Delhi NCR and Mumbai through select retail outlets, quick-commerce platforms, kiosks, and cloud kitchens. Orders can also be placed online via Swiggy, Zomato, or directly at 1.5degree.co.

Founded with a vision to make plant-based indulgence mainstream, 1.5 Degree continues to expand its product line with an aim to merge taste, sustainability, and innovation, one scoop and sip at a time.


Two Raffles Hotels in Cambodia Awarded MICHELIN Keys

Two Raffles Hotels in Cambodia Awarded MICHELIN Keys

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

Two of Cambodia’s most iconic hotels, Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap, have been recognised with the prestigious MICHELIN Keys, placing them among just ten hotels in the country to receive the honour in the MICHELIN Guide’s first-ever Cambodia edition.

The MICHELIN Keys celebrate the world’s most exceptional hotels, much like MICHELIN Stars honour top restaurants. Both Raffles properties have long been symbols of timeless elegance, offering guests a unique blend of colonial charm and contemporary luxury.

The editors of the MICHELIN Guide described Raffles Hotel Le Royal as “Phnom Penh’s top hotel by far” and “the best located, just steps away from the Royal Palace.” The hotel, which first opened in 1929, features 175 rooms and suites reimagined during a year-long restoration in 2019. Its design harmoniously blends French colonial, Khmer, and Art Deco influences, offering guests a refined yet contemporary retreat in the heart of Cambodia’s capital.

Equally praised was Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap, described as “an authentic French Colonial hotel, palatial, filled with '30s Art Deco furnishings, claw-footed bathtubs, and an antique cage elevator.” The property, which opened in 1932, retains its original grandeur while offering modern comforts suited to today’s discerning travellers. Its rooms, suites, and villas capture the spirit of 1930s Art Deco with Cambodian influences, creating an atmosphere of elegance and nostalgia.

In a further achievement, Raffles Hotel Le Royal was recently voted No. 2 hotel in Southeast Asia in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious hospitality recognitions. Cambodia also earned a place among the Top 5 friendliest countries in the world, reflecting its growing global appeal as a travel destination.

Dagmar Lyons, General Manager of Raffles Hotel Le Royal, said:

“To be recognised in the same month by both MICHELIN and Condé Nast Traveler, two of the planet’s top authorities in international travel – shows that Raffles Hotel Le Royal is truly a world-class destination, celebrated for exceptional hospitality, timeless elegance, and an extraordinary guest experience.”

Echoing the sentiment, Joseph Colina, General Manager at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, added:

“The honour from MICHELIN is a testament to our commitment to preserving the rich legacy of our hotel while offering guests an unforgettable experience steeped in history and elegance.”

Earlier this year, both Raffles properties introduced a unique seven-day package titled “A Tale of Two Cities,” inviting guests on an immersive journey that connects Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The experience captures the essence of Cambodia through grand history, cultural immersion, and the signature hospitality that defines the Raffles brand.

These recognitions further solidify Raffles Hotels’ legacy as custodians of heritage luxury, where history, artistry, and world-class service continue to set global benchmarks in hospitality.


Global F&B Expert Mariki Sayles Joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Director of Food & Beverage

Global F&B Expert Mariki Sayles Joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Director of Food & Beverage

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has announced the appointment of Mariki Sayles as its new Director of Food & Beverage, marking an exciting chapter in the hotel’s culinary evolution. With more than a decade of distinguished international experience spanning India, New York, and beyond, Mariki brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the role.

An award-winning hospitality professional, Mariki was honoured as Mixologist of the Year by The Times of India and served as a judge at ProWine Mumbai 2024, establishing herself as one of the industry’s most forward-thinking F&B leaders. Her diverse experience includes leading beverage operations for Bastian Hospitality’s iconic venues across India, directing transformative consulting projects nationwide, and contributing to the beverage program at New York’s Michelin-starred Le Bernardin.

Throughout her career, Mariki has been recognised for creating and elevating cutting-edge bar and restaurant concepts that blend operational excellence with creative storytelling, crafting experiences that resonate deeply with guests.

At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, she will oversee the hotel’s comprehensive food and beverage operations, driving strategy, innovation, and exceptional guest engagement across its acclaimed dining venues, sophisticated banquet facilities, and signature lounges. This appointment underscores the hotel’s dedication to maintaining its leadership position in Mumbai’s luxury hospitality landscape.

Reflecting on her new role, Mariki Sayles shared,

“JW Marriott is synonymous with international standards of excellence, and I am thrilled to contribute to this legacy at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. My vision is to elevate our food and beverage experiences to not only match global benchmarks but also redefine them for the Mumbai market, curating concepts that are innovative, immersive, and unforgettable.”

With her creative vision, meticulous attention to detail, and strategic insight, Mariki’s leadership is set to enhance JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar’s culinary identity, reaffirming its reputation as the Gateway to Mumbai and a true pioneer of hospitality excellence.

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