Alma Amphitheatre Unveils Remarkable Theatrical Spectacle

Alma Amphitheatre Unveils Remarkable Theatrical Spectacle

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 27, 2025

Alma Resort Cam Ranh is set to shine a cultural spotlight on Cam Ranh with the debut of “The Stage – Alma Show,” a visually striking theatrical production that celebrates Vietnam’s rich traditions and folklore with a contemporary twist. Beginning July 5, the Alma Amphitheatre will come alive with four daily shows, drawing audiences into a vivid journey through Vietnam’s legendary five elements—earth, water, fire, wood, and metal.

Designed as a cross-cultural collaboration between Vietnamese and Korean creatives, the 70-minute Alma Show presents an immersive experience through magic, dance, water puppetry, special effects, Ao Dai fashion, and a lively flash mob. With audience interaction built into the performance, each show caters to up to 400 guests and features dramatic storytelling through visually stunning segments.

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The show begins with the classical Apsara dance, a tribute to the lost Champa Kingdom and its cultural legacy in the region. From there, the elements are explored in richly choreographed scenes—from water puppetry to lotus flower formations with silks, flaming sword acts, and a Non La dance culminating in a dazzling fashion parade of Ao Dai.

The spectacle is brought to life by 24 dancers and magicians Jacky (Haesung Kim) and Bui Huu Thien, under the direction of renowned producers Jin (Hyukjin Cho) and Terry (Byongkok Jung) of The Stage VN. Jin previously directed the Dana Show and co-directed the 2002 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony, while Terry was behind the Dreams Come True Magic Tour and Chuncheon Lake Fairy Festival.

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Shows are staged twice nightly at 6 PM and 8 PM, promising an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Adding to the lineup is “The Magic and Water Puppet Show,” performed daily at 11 AM and 3 PM. This 50-minute show includes 30 minutes of traditional water puppetry—led by 10 skilled puppeteers in chest-deep water—and 20 minutes of magical, water-themed illusions.

The narrative showcases tales of village life, farming, and Vietnamese mythology, including stories like Thánh Gióng, the boy-turned-giant hero on a flying horse, and Lê Lợi and the Magical Sword, where divine intervention helps liberate Vietnam.

This production is directed by Nguyễn Tiến Dũng, artistic director of the Vietnam National Puppetry Theatre and 2014 world champion in puppetry.

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“Vietnam has such a rich and fascinating culture, affording so many compelling stories to share about its history, beauty and resilience,” said Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, Managing Director of Alma Cam Ranh. “'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.”

“‘The Stage - Alma Show’ is a heartfelt collaboration to honor and reintroduce Vietnam's beauty to the world,” added Jin.

Tickets for both The Alma Show and The Magic and Water Puppet Show are available at the Alma Promotions Desk and at the Amphitheatre.


Ras Al Khaimah Joins World’s Elite Luxury Travel Circles with Virtuoso® and Serandipians Membership

Ras Al Khaimah Joins World’s Elite Luxury Travel Circles with Virtuoso® and Serandipians Membership

By Hariharan U

Published on October 5, 2025

Ras Al Khaimah has officially joined the ranks of the world’s most prestigious luxury travel destinations, following its invitation-only acceptance into Virtuoso® and Serandipians by Traveller Made two of the most respected global networks in high-end travel.

This milestone marks a major step for the emirate, reflecting its growing global appeal and positioning it alongside iconic destinations such as Santorini, Kyoto, the Amalfi Coast, and the Serengeti.

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Membership in Virtuoso® and Serandipians is highly selective and reserved only for destinations and partners that meet exceptional standards in authenticity, service, and sustainability. Ras Al Khaimah’s inclusion showcases not just its luxury offerings, but also its cultural depth and commitment to meaningful, experience-driven tourism.

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Through these partnerships, Ras Al Khaimah will gain direct access to an elite network of travel advisors and luxury providers who design bespoke journeys for discerning travellers worldwide. The emirate’s growing portfolio of high-end hotels, combined with its diverse attractions, helped secure its place among these global leaders.

“Becoming part of Virtuoso and Serandipians marks a pivotal moment for Ras Al Khaimah as it continues to evolve as a destination. These partnerships will showcase the emirate’s exceptional blend of nature, culture, and exceptional hospitality to a global audience of travellers who value authenticity, exclusivity, and meaningful experiences. With our pipeline of world-renowned hotels and unique attractions, we are poised to redefine luxury in the region, reinforcing Ras Al Khaimah as a must-visit destination for discerning travellers,”
said Iyad Rasbey, Vice President – Destination Tourism Development, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

Famed for its stunning landscapes and high-end hospitality, Ras Al Khaimah offers an impressive mix of resorts and experiences. From luxury stays at Waldorf Astoria and The Ritz-Carlton, to new additions like Anantara Mina Al Arab and Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, the emirate continues to expand its premium offering. Future projects by Wynn Resorts, Four Seasons, and Nobu Hotels promise to further elevate its status.

Beyond opulent stays, the emirate’s experiences are equally captivating from the world’s longest zipline at Jebel Jais and sunrise hot-air balloon rides, to stargazing in the desert and exploring the Suwaidi Pearl Farm. These adventures blend thrill, culture, and natural beauty to create a truly unique luxury experience within the UAE.

For more on Ras Al Khaimah’s luxury offerings, visit www.visitrasalkhaimah.com


Galeries Lafayette Paris Announces Return of “3J” Shopping Festival

Galeries Lafayette Paris Announces Return of “3J” Shopping Festival

By Hariharan U

Published on October 5, 2025

The much-awaited “3J” Shopping Festival is set to make its grand return to Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann from October 17 to November 2, 2025 and this year, it promises to be bigger than ever.

For over a century, Galeries Lafayette has been synonymous with Parisian style and shopping indulgence. The upcoming edition of “3J” continues that legacy by offering exclusive in-store reductions across an extensive selection of luxury, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands.

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What to Expect

  • Major discounts on premium international and French brands

  • A carefully curated selection of fashion, accessories, and lifestyle must-haves

  • The timeless Galeries Lafayette shopping experience, complete with its iconic architecture and vibrant ambiance

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Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a beauty lover, or simply someone looking to bring home a piece of Paris, the festival is a rare chance to shop coveted labels at unbeatable prices.

If you’re planning an autumn visit to Paris, this shopping celebration is not to be missed. Mark your calendars, explore the collections, and experience the buzz of one of the city’s most beloved retail traditions.

For more details, bookings, or information on VIP shopping experiences, you can reach out directly to the Galeries Lafayette team.


Octola Becomes World’s First Travel Destination to Monitor Clean Air

Octola Becomes World’s First Travel Destination to Monitor Clean Air

By Hariharan U

Published on October 4, 2025

Octola Private Wilderness, one of the world’s most exclusive Arctic retreats in Finnish Lapland, has set a new benchmark for luxury and conscious travel. The ultra-luxury destination has become the first travel experience worldwide to monitor ultrafine air particles using research-grade technology. Installed across its private estate, this system provides guests with measurable insight into the purity of Arctic air, long celebrated as some of the cleanest on Earth.

“Our surroundings have always offered a rare purity. Now, we have the data to prove it,” says Janne Honkanen, Founder of Octola. “By measuring ultrafine particles, some of the smallest and most harmful pollutants — we can assure our guests of the environment’s quality in a meaningful, transparent way.”

This initiative builds on Octola’s mission to offer experiences rooted in the healing powers of Lapland’s pristine air and untouched wilderness, reinforcing the restorative qualities that returning guests have always sensed.

By continuously monitoring and reporting air quality, Octola is raising the bar for environmental responsibility and guest care. The retreat collaborates with leading researchers, including Northern Lights scientist Dr. Esa Turunen, offering a rare combination of luxury, natural serenity, and ongoing scientific research.

The new Octola II, opening in December 2025, will extend these standards. Featuring five ensuite bedrooms, a children’s playroom, spa, gym, saunas, and Northern Lights-viewing areas with glass ceilings, Octola II promises immersive experiences amidst 1,730 acres of private wilderness. The Supersuite Villa includes two large ensuite bedrooms, private saunas, baths, and outdoor hot tubs.

Octola is also launching Respiro Octola, a health and wellness programme designed to connect guests with the environment’s clean Arctic air. Curated experiences include guided breathwork, sauna sessions, yoga, ice swimming, and other natural treatments shown to reduce stress, improve resilience, and support long-term wellbeing. Studies from the World Health Organization and the University of Helsinki suggest that spending a week in Lapland can extend lifespan by hours depending on one’s origin, highlighting the benefits of pristine air.

“Scientific studies show that air pollution reduces global life expectancy by roughly two years. Breathing air as clean as Lapland’s can aid respiratory recovery, enhance wellbeing, and may even contribute to a longer life,” explains Professor Mikko Sipilä, University of Helsinki.

Through advanced environmental monitoring and sustainable practices, Octola reinforces its role as a guardian of the Arctic wilderness. By combining luxury, wellness, and measurable environmental accountability, it offers a unique experience that blends indulgence with conscious travel.

“The purity of our air is often described as healing, almost otherworldly. With this monitoring, we can protect it and hold ourselves to the highest standards,” adds Honkanen.

About Octola Private Wilderness
Located in Finnish Lapland, Octola Private Wilderness offers ultra-luxury off-grid lodges, personal chefs, wilderness guides, and authentic Lappish traditions. Reservations are highly limited, with a 94% guest return rate. The exact location remains undisclosed to protect privacy, and interested travellers may request to join a private waiting list.

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