A Tiffany Affair: Dining at the Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud

A Tiffany Affair: Dining at the Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud

By Author

Published on December 21, 2023

Step into a world of elegance and indulgence at the Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud, a hidden gem nestled within the iconic Tiffany & Co. flagship store on Fifth Avenue. Michelin-starred Chef Boulud takes you on a culinary journey reimagining iconic New York dining experiences, all woven into the tapestry of Tiffany's legendary heritage.

Breakfast at Tiffany's, Reimagined: Start your day with a touch of glamor. The café presents a prix-fixe American breakfast fit for Holly Golightly herself. Savor eggs Benedict adorned with smoked salmon and caviar, or indulge in ricotta pancakes drizzled with maple syrup and topped with fresh berries. Each bite is a testament to Boulud's exquisite touch, elevating everyday classics to extraordinary heights.

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Lunch with a View: Escape the bustling city streets and find solace in the café's sun-drenched terrace. Light and airy, the space overlooks the iconic Tiffany courtyard, offering a charming escape from the urban symphony. Sip on a refreshing Paloma cocktail as you delve into a succulent lobster roll on brioche, or opt for a vibrant salad bursting with seasonal produce. The lunch menu is crafted with a delicate French touch, each dish a delightful surprise for the senses.

Afternoon Tea fit for a Queen: Immerse yourself in the quintessential New York tradition of afternoon tea. Imagine delicate finger sandwiches, fluffy scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of delectable pastries, all beautifully presented on tiered stands. Indulge in a selection of exquisite teas, or elevate the experience with a glass of bubbly. This is a tea party fit for royalty, with every detail orchestrated to perfection.

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Dinner under the Starlight: As the day fades, the café transforms into a romantic haven. Dimmed lighting and sparkling candles create a warm ambiance, perfect for an intimate gathering or a special occasion. The à la carte dinner menu allows you to tailor your experience, showcasing Boulud's mastery of French cuisine. From melt-in-your-mouth foie gras to the finest cuts of steak, each dish is a culinary masterpiece, leaving you with a lasting impression.

Beyond the Plate: The Blue Box Café is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience. As you dine, the walls adorned with Tiffany's artistic legacy come alive, whispering tales of elegance and timeless beauty. The attentive service complements the sophisticated atmosphere, ensuring that every moment feels like a personal celebration.

So, whether you're seeking a glamorous escape for breakfast, a light and refreshing lunch, or a luxurious dinner under the stars, the Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud offers a unique and unforgettable culinary journey. Prepare to be swept away by the magic of Tiffany's and the culinary artistry of one of the world's most celebrated chefs.


Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery Opens Its Doors, Where Tradition Meets Modernity

Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery Opens Its Doors, Where Tradition Meets Modernity

By Author

Published on January 17, 2025

Four Points by Sheraton, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, has officially opened Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery. This remarkable addition to Marriott’s portfolio is strategically located in one of Chennai’s most vibrant neighborhoods, catering to business and leisure travelers alike.

Conveniently situated just 10 kilometers from Chennai International Airport and 8 kilometers from the city center, Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery sits at the crossroads of Velachery’s bustling district and the OMR Business Corridor. This prime location provides easy access to Chennai’s IT hubs, shopping destinations, and cultural landmarks, making it an ideal choice for both professional and recreational visits.

Celebrating Chennai’s Vibrant Spirit

Known as the UNESCO Creative City of Music, Chennai is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and culinary delights. The hotel pays homage to the city’s essence through its thoughtful interiors, which blend contemporary design with traditional influences. Guests will find themselves immersed in the vibrant spirit of Chennai, whether through local artwork in the rooms or authentic Chettinad cuisine at the hotel’s dining venues.

Exceptional Hospitality and Modern Amenities

The hotel features 108 elegantly designed rooms, equipped with modern amenities such as integrated USB ports, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and the signature Four Points comfort bed. Guests can choose between views of Velachery’s dynamic streets or the serene OMR skyline. The thoughtful design extends to the hotel’s public spaces, including:

  • Sage & Salt: A lively all-day dining restaurant offering international cuisine and local favorites.

  • The Liquid Library: A sophisticated bar featuring curated cocktails, fine wines, and the brand’s signature Best Brews™ program showcasing locally crafted beers.

  • Recreational Facilities: A rooftop pool and 24-hour fitness center designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.

  • Event Spaces: With 438 square meters of meeting and banquet facilities, the hotel is perfect for weddings, conferences, and social gatherings.

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A Collaboration of Excellence

This launch marks the debut of Krishna Group in the hospitality industry, in collaboration with Marriott International. Mr. Krishna Reddy, Managing Director of Krishna Group, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Marriott International for our first venture into hospitality. This milestone represents our commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.”

Ranju Alex, Area Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International, added, “The opening of Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery demonstrates Marriott’s steady growth in India. Combining the brand’s signature reliability with Chennai’s cultural charm, this hotel is poised to become a favorite for business and leisure travelers.”

Marriott Bonvoy and Four Points

As part of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery offers guests the benefits of Marriott’s award-winning loyalty program. Members can enjoy exclusive experiences, free stays, and more, adding immense value to their journeys.

A New Address of Comfort and Style

Sujith Chandrasekhar, Hotel Manager, commented, “We are proud to bring the Four Points brand to Chennai’s dynamic Velachery neighborhood. Our goal is to provide an address of preference, where guests can enjoy Chennai’s vibrant culture along with the modern comforts and impeccable service that define our brand.”

For reservations or more information, visit www.fourpointsvelachery.com.

About Four Points by Sheraton

Four Points by Sheraton is a global brand with over 310 hotels in more than 45 countries and territories. Known for timeless classics woven with modern details, Four Points offers genuine service in a casual environment. As part of Marriott Bonvoy, guests can enjoy a range of benefits, including free nights and exclusive experiences.


Uber Partners with Airports Authority of India to Streamline Mobility at Prayagraj Airport Ahead of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

Uber Partners with Airports Authority of India to Streamline Mobility at Prayagraj Airport Ahead of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

By Author

Published on January 17, 2025

Uber, India’s leading ride-hailing platform, has announced a strategic partnership with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) at Prayagraj Airport to deliver seamless and efficient transportation solutions. This collaboration aims to cater to millions of pilgrims and travellers visiting Prayagraj for Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, one of the largest religious gatherings globally, expected to attract over 40 crore participants.

Key Highlights of the Partnership

  1. Dedicated Pickup Zones: Uber will establish designated pickup zones at Prayagraj Airport with on-ground assistance and clear signage for a hassle-free experience.
  2. Exclusive Discounts: Travellers can avail 25% off (up to Rs 200) on rides originating from Prayagraj Airport, making mobility more affordable.
  3. Enhanced Technology: Users can book rides effortlessly through the Uber app, benefiting from reliable, tech-driven transportation solutions.

Strategic MoU and Airport Expansion

In April 2023, Uber signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AAI, extending its services to 20 AAI-operated airports across India. This latest collaboration at Prayagraj Airport underscores Uber’s commitment to supporting large-scale events like the Maha Kumbh Mela and meeting the growing demands of air travellers.

Leadership Insights

Director of Prayagraj Airport, Airports Authority of India, remarked:

“As Prayagraj prepares for the monumental Maha Kumbh Mela, ensuring seamless and reliable transportation is critical. Our collaboration with Uber enhances passenger convenience and strengthens the city’s infrastructure during this significant event. Uber’s innovative technology and on-ground support will greatly benefit travellers and contribute to the success of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.”

Shiva Shailendran, Director of Supply Operations, Uber India and South Asia, said:

“We are thrilled to partner with the Airports Authority of India at Prayagraj Airport. By integrating advanced technology with on-ground support, we aim to provide smooth, comfortable, and reliable mobility solutions during this iconic spiritual gathering. Our commitment extends to both passengers and drivers, ensuring a seamless experience for all.”

The partnership is also set to boost local economies by creating additional earning opportunities for Uber driver-partners during the peak travel season.

About Uber

Uber has been redefining mobility since its launch in India in 2013. Over the past decade, it has completed over 3 billion trips across 125 cities, offering a variety of services, including Moto, Auto, Cars, and Buses. With a focus on safe, reliable, and efficient mobility solutions, Uber continues to innovate, prioritizing customer satisfaction and driver empowerment.

For more information, visit Uber.com.


ixigo Launches The Ultimate Guide to Maha Kumbh 2025: Prayagraj Train & Flight Bookings Surge by 2.6X

ixigo Launches The Ultimate Guide to Maha Kumbh 2025: Prayagraj Train & Flight Bookings Surge by 2.6X

By Author

Published on January 17, 2025

ixigo, India’s leading Online Travel Agency (OTA) for the Next Billion Users, has unveiled a dedicated microsite to assist travellers, devotees, and pilgrims in planning their journey to Maha Kumbh 2025. The event, taking place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025, is the world’s largest spiritual gathering, drawing millions of participants from across the globe.

The ixigo microsite is designed to be a one-stop solution for seamless travel planning, offering comprehensive guidance on logistics, rituals, key activities, and more. With the surge in travel demand, the platform simplifies the process of booking hotels, tents, flights, trains, and buses, while providing insights into the festival’s highlights, including the most auspicious bathing dates.

Key Features of the Microsite

  • AI-Driven Travel Planning: Powered by ixigo’s advanced AI tool, PLAN, the platform delivers personalized itineraries catering to diverse preferences, such as heritage walks, family-friendly activities, and scenic photo spots.
  • Immersive Content: Explore Prayagraj’s cultural and spiritual richness through curated videos showcasing landmarks, must-visit temples, and local food trails.
  • Comprehensive Booking Solutions: Effortlessly book travel and accommodation, including special arrangements for tents and festival-specific stays.

Travel Surge Insights

As Maha Kumbh 2025 gathers momentum, ixigo reports a 2.6x increase in train and flight bookings to Prayagraj and its vicinity:

  • Flight Bookings: Prayagraj flights surged by 162% YoY, while nearby hubs like Varanasi and Lucknow saw increases of 127% and 42%, respectively.
  • Train Bookings: A 187% YoY rise was observed, with solo travellers making up 57% of these bookings, of which 39% are women.
  • Bus Bookings: Cities like Delhi (27%), Nagpur (18%), and Jaipur (15%) drove significant demand, largely led by Gen Z and millennials.

Leadership Statement

Aloke Bajpai, Group CEO, and Rajnish Kumar, Group Co-CEO, ixigo, commented,

“Our Maha Kumbh 2025 microsite is crafted to empower millions of travellers with essential tools for a smooth journey to this iconic spiritual gathering. The unprecedented surge in travel bookings to Prayagraj reflects the immense interest in Maha Kumbh, and we are committed to providing a seamless, stress-free experience for pilgrims worldwide.”

About ixigo

Founded in 2007, ixigo (Le Travenues Technology Limited) is a trailblazer in Indian travel, leveraging AI to empower travellers to plan and manage trips across rail, air, bus, and hotel bookings. With over 48 crore Annual Active Users in Fiscal 2024, ixigo is India’s leading OTA for Next Billion Users, dedicated to making travel accessible and hassle-free.

Visit the Maha Kumbh 2025 microsite for more details: https://www.ixigo.com/plan/kumbh-mela

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