Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, invites discerning travellers to celebrate the festive season in an atmosphere of timeless rituals, refined gastronomy, and serene natural beauty along the untouched shores of the Andaman Sea. This year-end, the ultra-luxury retreat presents six thoughtfully curated experiences that blend cultural authenticity, culinary excellence, and meaningful moments of celebration.

The festive journey begins with a sacred traditional Buddhist monk blessing at Sala Srichan, coinciding with Phulay Bay’s 16th anniversary of warm hospitality. As the sun sets over the sea, guests are welcomed with cocktails followed by a special anniversary dinner inspired by the four elements—Earth, Water, Air, and Fire—artfully crafted by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Christian Herrgesell.

Christmas Eve at Phulay Bay is marked by one of the resort’s most enchanting traditions, as Santa arrives by long-tail boat at sunset. The day unfolds with a festive breakfast, engaging children’s workshops, and culminates in an elegant Christmas Eve dinner under the stars at Jampoon, where classic holiday flavours are reimagined with a tropical twist.

On Christmas Day, the celebration continues with “Gifts from the Grove,” a showcase of handcrafted ornaments by local artisans, family-friendly activities, and a vibrant Christmas Buffet and Market Fair on the Pool Lawn. Guests can enjoy gourmet food stations and a lively festive ambience beneath the night sky.

For those seeking an elevated culinary experience, the Intimate Champagne Pairing Evening on 28 December offers an exclusive dinner for just 20 guests at Sala Srichan. A refined four-course menu is paired with exceptional Ruinart champagnes, creating an evening of elegance, artistry, and indulgence.

New Year’s Eve transports guests back in time with “A Night of Siam,” inspired by the era of King Rama VI, when Western elegance merged seamlessly with Siamese grace. The evening features sunset cocktails, a grand gala dinner with cultural performances, and transitions into a beachfront countdown party with live DJ music and fireworks illuminating the Andaman Sea.

As midnight approaches, celebrations move to the sandy shores of Chomtawan Bar, where festive cocktails, energetic music, and a spectacular fireworks display welcome 2026 in signature Phulay Bay style. The festivities conclude on a serene note with a New Year’s Day brunch at Jampoon, followed by the traditional Thai monk offering ceremony, Tak Bat—a meaningful ritual symbolising gratitude, generosity, and new beginnings.

In a landmark step towards sustainable luxury, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa has partnered with Tata Power to implement one of the most advanced Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in the Indian hospitality sector. This initiative marks Tata Power’s first BESS deployment in the hospitality industry and positions Taj Exotica Goa as the first hotel in India to adopt this pioneering clean energy solution.

With an approximate storage capacity of 2 MW, the BESS project represents a significant milestone in IHCL’s decarbonisation journey under Paathya, aligned with the Tata Group’s Aalingana vision for climate-positive growth. The installation has been executed by Tata Power following detailed technical feasibility studies, with an investment of approximately ₹3.50 crore and projected annual savings of around ₹1.50 crore, while substantially reducing dependence on diesel-based power generation.

Commenting on the initiative, Ms. Sheetal Singh, Area Director – South Goa and General Manager, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa, said:
“Sustainability is at the core of our ethos at Taj Exotica, Goa. The BESS project is an exemplary step in modernising the way hospitality manages energy. By reducing diesel dependence and enhancing power reliability, we are embracing innovation that directly contributes to a greener, more resilient future for our hotel and our community.”

The system is expected to reduce nearly 2 lakh litres of High-Speed Diesel (HSD) annually, leading to a substantial drop in carbon emissions and operational costs. Beyond financial and environmental benefits, the BESS improves power quality, minimises generator runtime, and significantly lowers air emissions.

Given Taj Exotica Goa’s multi-source power ecosystem, comprising grid supply, diesel generators, and solar energy, a sophisticated interlocking and protection system was jointly developed with Tata Power. This includes automated source prioritisation logic, prevention of backfeed and overload, real-time monitoring, advanced safety cut-offs, thermal and surge protection, emergency shutdown protocols, and manual override operations.

To ensure uninterrupted guest comfort and electrical stability, comprehensive safety simulations and load-bank tests were conducted. The physical installation was completed in mid-November 2025, followed by full-load testing, where the system demonstrated stable discharge curves and precise switching performance.

The engineering team, led by Mr. Athen Chellappa, Area Director Engineering – Goa, carried out extensive simulations of power outage scenarios. These validated automatic diesel generator synchronisation, priority-based charging from solar and grid sources, interlocking accuracy, changeover timings, and internet connectivity critical for cloud-linked operations. The system is further supported by an interactive digital dashboard offering real-time energy flow visibility, battery health diagnostics, predictive maintenance alerts, and detailed historical reports on consumption and savings.

Summarising the impact of the project, Mr. Ranjit Phillipose, Senior Vice President – Operations, IHCL Goa, stated:
“The BESS project at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa is not just an engineering achievement—it is a defining moment in our sustainability journey. By embracing cutting-edge technology and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, we are setting new benchmarks for responsible luxury. This initiative reflects our belief that the future of hospitality is clean, resilient, and climate-conscious, and we are proud to pioneer that change.”

With this breakthrough collaboration, Taj Exotica Goa and Tata Power have set a powerful precedent for the Indian hospitality industry, demonstrating how innovation, sustainability, and luxury can seamlessly converge to shape a cleaner and more resilient future.

Usher in the New Year with unforgettable celebrations that blend indulgence, elegance, and spirited festivities at two of Bengaluru’s most sought-after destinations—Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa and Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore. From expansive hilltop luxury to vibrant city chic, both properties have curated distinctive New Year experiences featuring exceptional dining, immersive entertainment, and refined hospitality. Whether you prefer a relaxed brunch to start the year or a grand gala night to ring it in, these iconic venues promise a memorable welcome to 2026.

Welcome 2026 with a Leisurely New Year Brunch at Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore

Start the first day of 2026 on a relaxed and indulgent note with the 2026 Brunch Club at Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore. Designed for slow mornings and flavour-forward celebrations, this New Year’s Day brunch is perfect for unwinding with friends, family, or loved ones.

Hosted at The Bengaluru Brasserie, the brunch features a generous buffet spread, comforting classics, and celebratory pours, set against a warm and inviting ambience that encourages lingering conversations and easy celebrations.

Date: 1st January, 2026
Time: 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM
Venue: The Bengaluru Brasserie, Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore

Whether continuing the festivities from the night before or easing into the year at your own pace, the 2026 Brunch Club promises a laid-back yet indulgent start to the New Year, infused with the signature warmth of Hyatt Centric.

Ring in 2026 with Grandeur at Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa

For those seeking a grand celebration, Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa invites guests to welcome 2026 in spectacular style. Set against the serene backdrop of Nandi Hills, the resort presents an unforgettable New Year’s Eve gala combining luxury stays, gourmet dining, and vibrant entertainment.

The celebration unfolds at the magnificent Galaxy Ballroom, featuring live entertainment, a candle-light concert, a high-energy DJ, surprise elements, and an elaborate dinner spread—creating the perfect countdown to midnight.

Date: 31st December, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM to 12:30 AM (or as per police permissions)
Venue: Galaxy Ballroom
Reservations: 08071 777 000

Guests can choose between thoughtfully designed packages with or without liquor, each offering a seamless, all-inclusive celebration experience with premium hospitality, recreation activities, and a comfortable stay to welcome the New Year refreshed.

Whether you’re looking for a lively party night filled with music and celebration or a refined evening surrounded by nature and elegance, Clarks Exotica promises a New Year’s experience marked by comfort, celebration, and unforgettable moments.

With limited packages available, advance reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot and welcome 2026 in luxury and style.