Accor to Introduce Sofitel, Novotel, and Novotel Living to Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town

Accor to Introduce Sofitel, Novotel, and Novotel Living to Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 10, 2024

Accor Greater China, in collaboration with Changzhou High-Speed Railway Town and Changzhou High-Tech Group Co., Ltd., has announced a significant hospitality project in the burgeoning community of Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town. This ambitious development will see the introduction of three prominent Accor brands: Sofitel, Novotel, and Novotel Living, marking a major expansion in this key economic zone of Jiangsu province.

The new hospitality project aims to create a diverse and vibrant community in Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town, which is rapidly becoming one of the most crucial economic development zones in Changzhou. This area is strategically linked to the Yangtze River Delta Economic Zone and is known for its advancements in sustainable technology, artificial intelligence manufacturing, and various high-tech industries.

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Sofitel Changzhou will bring French luxury and sophistication to the heart of Star City, located next to Changzhou North Station. This hotel will feature 310 elegantly designed guest rooms, a luxurious spa and wellness center with a pool, an executive lounge, and a variety of dining options. Additionally, Sofitel Changzhou will offer extensive meeting facilities, including two elegant ballrooms ideal for weddings and special events. This establishment is set to become a beacon of luxury in an area surrounded by modern businesses, high-end offices, and tech enterprises.

In the nearby Changzhou International Talent Plaza, Accor will develop Novotel Changzhou and Novotel Living Changzhou. Novotel Changzhou will feature a 324-guestroom tower, providing a balanced and welcoming environment for travelers. The adjoining Novotel Living Changzhou will offer 223 rooms designed for extended stays, catering to the needs of modern travelers and young business professionals who prefer a home-like experience. Novotel Living is designed to offer comfortable, apartment-style accommodations, making it ideal for those who mix business with leisure and seek deeper connections with the local community.

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This project is part of Accor’s broader growth strategy in Greater China. The company recently celebrated the opening of its 700th hotel in the region, with plans to open more than 100 hotels by the end of the year and over 150 development projects currently underway. Gary Rosen, CEO of Accor Greater China, said “Accor is a market leader in matching the right brand with the right destination, in line with our partner’s development objectives. Working with Changzhou High-Tech Group, we have the ideal opportunity to create an inspired mix of luxury, midscale and extended stay hotels that we believe will be ideally suited to the vibrant and booming community of Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town.”

Ge Yafang, Secretary of the Party Committee and General Manager of Changzhou High-Speed Railway Town and Changzhou High-Tech Group, said “Accor is an obvious leader when it comes to offering a wide range of the world’s most renowned hospitality brands, such as Sofitel and Novotel, which we are excited to bring to the city of Changzhou. The addition of Novotel Living will add a modern and fresh spin on the hospitality experience, which is particularly important to the young business travelers who are increasingly traveling to Changzhou and wanting to connect with the local community.”

Accor’s entry into Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town with Sofitel, Novotel, and Novotel Living marks a pivotal moment in the area’s development. This project not only enhances the hospitality landscape but also supports the broader economic growth of this key region. 


Alma Amphitheatre Brings Vietnam’s Stories Alive with Cultural Spectacle

Alma Amphitheatre Brings Vietnam’s Stories Alive with Cultural Spectacle

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 27, 2025

Alma Resort Cam Ranh is transforming Cam Ranh’s cultural landscape with the launch of a breathtaking new live experience, “The Stage – Alma Show.” Debuting on July 5, this grand outdoor spectacle brings together Vietnam’s deep-rooted traditions and heritage with a modern creative touch, thanks to a powerful collaboration between Vietnamese and Korean talent. Set in the resort’s spacious amphitheatre, the show promises to transport audiences on a journey through the country’s rich cultural identity, narrated through stunning performances and visual magic.

The Alma Show is a 70-minute visual journey inspired by the five natural elements—earth, water, fire, wood, and metal—each represented through a dynamic mix of dance, magic, puppetry, and music. With audience engagement at its core, the show begins by honouring the ancient Champa Kingdom through the “Apsara” dance, celebrating the region’s historical roots. Audiences are then led through visually captivating segments, such as a water puppet show representing 'water' and 'wood', dancers crafting a giant lotus flower for 'earth', and a dramatic fire sword act that lights up the night as a symbol of 'fire'. A contemporary interpretation of 'metal' concludes the show with special effects, a vibrant flash mob, and a graceful Ao Dai fashion parade.

Staged twice every evening at 6 pm and 8 pm, the production involves 24 dancers and illusionists, including Jacky (Haesung Kim) and Bui Huu Thien. It is directed by the experienced hands of Jin (Hyukjin Cho) and Terry (Byongkok Jung) of The Stage VN. Jin, well-known for directing the Dana Show and the opening ceremony of the 2002 FIFA World Cup, and Terry, who led magical events like the Dreams Come True Magic Tour, bring unmatched global expertise to this Vietnamese narrative.

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Adding to the enchantment is “The Magic and Water Puppet Show,” held twice daily at 11 am and 3 pm. This 50-minute show blends traditional Vietnamese water puppetry and magical illusions. Audiences are immersed in village life, folk tales, and heroic legends through 30 minutes of live puppetry, where puppeteers control intricate puppets in chest-deep water, followed by 20 minutes of spellbinding water-themed illusions. Legendary stories such as ‘Thánh Gióng’, the boy-turned-hero on a flying iron horse, and ‘Emperor Lê Lợi’s Magical Sword’, symbolising Vietnam’s liberation, come alive in front of spectators. Directed by Nguyễn Tiến Dũng, a world champion puppeteer and the artistic director of the Vietnam National Puppetry Theatre, the show is a true tribute to Vietnam’s storytelling traditions.

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Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, Alma Cam Ranh’s Managing Director, expressed the vision behind the initiative: “Vietnam has such a rich and fascinating culture, affording so many compelling stories to share about its history, beauty, and resilience. 'The Stage – Alma Show' promises to be a feast for the eyes and to bring any visit to our region and indeed to Vietnam to a whole new level.” Director Jin echoed this sentiment, calling the project “a heartfelt collaboration to honour and reintroduce Vietnam's beauty to the world.”

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Both shows are open to the public, and tickets can be purchased at the Alma Promotions Desk or directly at the amphitheatre. With its grand vision and heartfelt execution, Alma Amphitheatre is set to become a must-visit destination for cultural seekers and travellers alike.


Tokyo Skytree Town Brings Iconic Summer Fun for All Ages

Tokyo Skytree Town Brings Iconic Summer Fun for All Ages

By Manu vardhan Kannan

Published on July 25, 2025

As the Indian monsoon sets in, it’s the perfect season to explore Japan’s summer charms—clear skies, buzzing streets, and cultural delights. For Indian travellers seeking an unforgettable holiday, Tokyo Skytree Town offers the ultimate indoor and outdoor experiences in the heart of Tokyo.

Crowned the World’s Tallest Freestanding Tower (634 meters) by Guinness World Records, Tokyo Skytree is more than just a landmark. It’s the centerpiece of Tokyo Skytree Town, which houses Tokyo Solamachi, a vast shopping complex with 300+ stores, alongside an aquarium and planetarium.

Whether you're travelling solo, with friends, or as a family, here’s what’s heating up this summer:

 Toy Story Sky at Tokyo Skytree

Celebrating 30 years of Toy Story magic, this themed event features photo spots, video screenings at the Skytree Round Theater, exclusive merchandise, and special lighting inspired by the beloved franchise, turning Tokyo’s skyline into a Pixar dream.

Pokémon Center Skytree Town: Big Adventure 2025

Running from July 19 to August 31, this bingo-style rally invites Pokémon fans to solve fun challenges throughout Tokyo Solamachi, collecting rewards while exploring the vibrant entertainment complex.

Tokyo Solamachi Summer Festival

Timed with the Sumida Citizens’ Bon Odori Dance Festival, this event blends the nostalgia of traditional Japanese markets with modern mall convenience. Expect festive food stalls, seasonal goodies, and lively vibes across Solamachi Plaza.

Tokyo Skytree Town Beer Festa 2025

Back with a bang, the open-air beer garden transforms the Sky Arena into a Lawn BBQ Park, complete with global brews, street food, BBQ feasts, and misty lawns for children to play and cool off.

So, whether you're after anime magic, gourmet experiences, or cultural charm, Tokyo Skytree Town promises a summer filled with joy, discovery, and unforgettable moments, rain or shine!


BGN Inaugurates Abuja Council, Ushering in New Era of Bartending Excellence

BGN Inaugurates Abuja Council, Ushering in New Era of Bartending Excellence

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 25, 2025

In a historic and vibrant ceremony held on Monday, July 21, 2025, the Abuja Council of the Bartenders Guild of Nigeria (BGN) was officially inaugurated at The Republic@Camden, Gwarimpa, Abuja. This momentous event marks a new chapter in the professional evolution of bartending within the Federal Capital Territory.

The inauguration brought together hospitality professionals, industry stakeholders, and bartenders from Abuja and beyond, as the newly appointed Executive Council of the Abuja branch took their official oath and assumed leadership under the national Guild.

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Anchored by BGN Vice President Abubakar Abdullahi, the event featured opening remarks, formal oath-taking, certificate presentations, and a lively networking session. BGN National President Mr. Emmanuel Oyira delivered an inspiring keynote, stating, “Today marks more than just the swearing-in of a new executive team — it marks a new dawn for Abuja and a defining chapter in the story of bartending in Nigeria. Let this Council not just be a geographic structure, but a model for innovation, a hub for capacity-building, and a platform for raising the bar — in training, in standards, and in representation.” 

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Also gracing the occasion was HRH Emeka Mbonu, a respected hotelier and the visionary behind The Camden Group, including The Republic@Camden, The Camden Hotels, The ChefH@Camden, and Samantha@Camden. In his address, HRH encouraged the new leaders to serve with dedication and creativity, emphasizing their role in shaping the future of hospitality in the capital.

Representing the new council, Ugbobo Vincent, Secretary (Finance), extended gratitude on behalf of the team and assured guests of their commitment to serving the bartending community with integrity and passion.

Executive Council – Abuja State Council:

  1. State Chairman – Joshua Alabi

  2. Deputy State Chairman – Seth Amarh

  3. Secretary (Administration) – Gabriel Onuche

  4. Secretary (Finance) – Ugbobo Vincent

  5. Secretary (Communications) – Wisdom Agbecha Anuoluwapo

The ceremony concluded with the iconic BGN Cocktail Hour — a signature tradition of the Guild where bartenders display their flair and creativity. Guests were treated to a free cocktail tasting experience in a spirited atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie.

With this inauguration, the BGN Abuja Council is set to drive mentorship, innovation, and visibility for bartenders across the region, aligning with the Guild’s broader national vision of raising industry standards and empowering professionals.

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