Akasa Air Makes History: Introducing Kombucha to In-Flight Dining

Akasa Air Makes History: Introducing Kombucha to In-Flight Dining

By Author

Published on September 21, 2023

Have you ever heard of Kombucha, the sweet and bubbly fermented drink loaded with probiotics? If you haven't, here's your chance to try it out because Akasa Air is making history as the first Indian airline to introduce Kombucha as part of its in-flight dining experience.

In a groundbreaking collaboration with Borécha, Akasa Air is now offering Kombucha on board its flights. This marks a significant step forward in providing passengers with a healthier and more diverse range of beverage options. Specifically, passengers can enjoy Borécha's probiotic Mango Kombucha during their journey. The great news is that it's available for purchase on all Akasa Air flights. Plus, for those who like to plan ahead, you can even pre-order it through the airline's website and mobile app.

Why Kombucha?

Kombucha is not just any drink; it's a probiotic powerhouse with numerous potential health benefits. From supporting gut health to aiding brain function and reducing infection risks, Kombucha is all the rage in the world of wellness. It's a delightful and refreshing beverage that's also kind to your liver. For health-conscious travelers, Kombucha is a fantastic alternative to sugary drinks.

At Akasa Air, they understand that passengers have diverse dietary preferences and are increasingly mindful of what they consume. That's why they've partnered with Borécha to bring Kombucha on board. Belson Coutinho, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing & Experience Officer of Akasa Air, emphasized that today's travelers are more conscious than ever about their food choices. By introducing Kombucha, they aim to provide passengers with a delicious and healthy beverage option.

Ishan Varshnei, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Borécha, spoke about how Borécha is leading a hydration revolution by empowering individuals to make healthier choices. This partnership between Borécha and Akasa Air is all about liberating travelers by offering delightful functional beverages on board, transforming the way we stay hydrated, especially in sectors like aviation, where healthy options are often limited.

More Choices, More Convenience

Besides Kombucha, passengers can expect an expanded menu with over 60 meal options as part of Café Akasa’s refreshed offerings. Whether you prefer healthy, fusion, festive, or gourmet meals, Akasa Air aims to cater to a wide array of tastes and dietary preferences.

Akasa Air is India's fastest-growing airline, connecting 16 cities across the country. Since its launch in August 2022, it has served over 4.3 million revenue passengers. So, the next time you're on an Akasa Air flight, don't forget to try their Kombucha and enjoy a healthier and more mindful in-flight dining experience.

In the world of aviation, Akasa Air is setting a new standard by introducing Kombucha on board. It's all about offering passengers a wholesome and refreshing choice when it comes to their beverages. So, as you embark on your next journey with Akasa Air, make sure to savor the probiotic goodness of Kombucha and experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere they provide.

Image Source: Google Images


Lisbon Funicular Crash Leaves 15 Dead, City in Mourning

Lisbon Funicular Crash Leaves 15 Dead, City in Mourning

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 4, 2025

Portugal is reeling after a devastating accident in Lisbon claimed the lives of 15 people when the city’s iconic Gloria funicular derailed and crashed into a building. The incident occurred around 18:05 near Avenida da Liberdade, leaving another 18 people injured, five of them critically.

Authorities confirmed that foreign nationals were among the dead, though their nationalities have yet to be disclosed. Eyewitnesses reported that the funicular appeared to have lost its brakes, gaining uncontrollable speed before hitting a building with what one described as “brutal force.”

Footage circulating on social media showed the bright yellow carriage overturned and almost destroyed, with smoke rising as people fled the scene. Rescue workers spent hours extracting passengers trapped in the wreckage.

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas called it a “tragic moment for the city” during his hospital visit. Portugal’s government declared a day of national mourning, while President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa expressed his “sympathy and solidarity” with victims’ families. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also offered condolences.

The Gloria funicular, in service since 1885 and electrified in the early 20th century, is one of Lisbon’s most famous tourist attractions. It connects Restauradores Square to Bairro Alto, covering a steep 275-metre route in just three minutes. At the time of the accident, the city was crowded with end-of-summer visitors.

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Lisbon’s public transport operator Carris stated that the funicular had undergone major four-yearly and biennial maintenance checks, along with regular inspections. However, eyewitness accounts suggest that the braking system failed, and reports indicate that a loose cable may have caused the derailment.

Multiple investigations are under way, including by the national transport safety authority, the criminal police, and Carris. Authorities have cautioned that it is too early to determine the exact cause of the crash.

The Gloria funicular, long celebrated as a symbol of Lisbon’s charm, now stands at the centre of one of the worst transport tragedies in the city’s history, leaving residents and visitors alike in deep grief.


Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island Triumphs with Four Wins at Haute Grandeur Global Awards 2025

Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island Triumphs with Four Wins at Haute Grandeur Global Awards 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 2, 2025

Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island has secured outstanding recognition at the Haute Grandeur Global Awards 2025, winning four prestigious accolades that reaffirm its position as one of the top family and lifestyle resorts in the region.

The resort was honoured in four categories: Best Island Hotel in the Middle East, Best Island Resort in the Middle East, Best Rooftop View Hotel in the Middle East, and Best Family Hotel in the United Arab Emirates. These achievements highlight the resort’s commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences, blending luxury, family-friendly amenities, and world-class hospitality with the scenic charm of Al Marjan Island.

Since opening in 2022, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island has become a hallmark of Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality excellence, offering a mix of leisure, wellness, and award-winning dining concepts. The Haute Grandeur Global Awards, known for recognising the world’s finest hotels and resorts, honoured the property for its exceptional service, innovative experiences, and dedication to setting benchmarks in the industry.

Guided by General Manager Fabien Chesnais since January 2021, the resort has redefined family-friendly luxury in the UAE. From signature kids’ programs, large-scale entertainment events, and unique culinary experiences to sustainability-driven initiatives, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island has continued to raise the standard for leisure and MICE travellers alike.

The title of Best Family Hotel in the UAE celebrates the resort’s dedication to creating memorable family experiences through offerings such as the Starfish Adventure Kids Club, Xscape Teen Zone, Xplore Arcade gaming space, Ras Al Khaimah’s largest overwater floating park, a mini golf experience, and the daily Mövenpick Chocolate Hour.

The award for Best Rooftop View Hotel in the Middle East also highlights the success of NEO Sky Bar, which has become a sought-after lifestyle destination with its panoramic island views and curated guest experiences.

Commenting on the achievement, General Manager Fabien Chesnais said, “These recognitions are a true reflection of our team’s passion and commitment to creating unforgettable moments for our guests. Winning four Haute Grandeur Global Awards in just one year is a remarkable achievement and a proud milestone in our journey. It strengthens our vision to position Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island as the ultimate island getaway in the UAE.”

With more than 20 industry awards won between 2023 and 2025, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island continues to build its reputation as one of the UAE’s most celebrated resorts, bringing together authentic hospitality, innovative guest experiences, and a strong focus on sustainability.


China Visitors Summit Brings Record-Breaking Travel Delegation to Abu Dhabi

China Visitors Summit Brings Record-Breaking Travel Delegation to Abu Dhabi

By Hariharan U

Published on September 2, 2025

Abu Dhabi has just witnessed a milestone in global tourism partnerships as the China Visitors Summit (CVS) brought together the world’s largest gathering of Chinese travel industry professionals ever held outside of China.

The summit, which unfolded across Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, welcomed nearly 160 prominent Chinese buyers, including travel agencies, tour operators, luxury travel specialists, MICE managers, and corporate planners. Their mission was clear, to connect directly with UAE tourism suppliers such as hotels, attractions, cultural venues, inbound tour operators, and shopping destinations.

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Over two days at the Rotana Hotel and Conference Center in Al Ain, the energy was intense. More than 3,000 one-to-one business meetings took place, setting the stage for fresh collaborations. The combined market strength of these Chinese buyers is staggering  together, they delivered almost $1 billion in outbound travel business last year, representing over 1.5 million international travelers, many with an eye on the GCC, particularly the UAE.

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China today stands as the world’s largest source of outbound tourists, with nearly 200 million passport holders and a similar number of annual trips. Their global travel spending has soared past $300 billion annually, underlining why destinations like the UAE see the Chinese market as vital for long-term growth.

The CVS provides a unique advantage for UAE suppliers. Companies can handpick the buyers they meet, whether their focus is luxury leisure travel, business trips, or MICE opportunities.

Highlighting the purpose of the summit, Alexander Glos, CEO of the China i2i Group, the organizer of CVS, said, “The China Visitors Summit is not just about meetings – it’s about building long-term partnerships between the UAE and China’s most powerful travel industry leaders. Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE are now firmly positioned as must-visit destinations for Chinese travelers, and the CVS provides the direct access, insights, and opportunities that suppliers need to succeed in this market.”

Since its launch in 2008, the China Visitors Summit has been staged more than 40 times across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, North America, and China, cementing its place as the leading B2B matchmaking platform connecting Chinese buyers with global suppliers.

With the UAE firmly on the radar of Chinese travelers, the latest edition of CVS has further strengthened Abu Dhabi’s image as a top-choice destination for one of the world’s most influential travel markets.

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