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By Nishang Narayan
Published on September 24, 2024
The Ascott Limited, the lodging unit fully owned by CapitaLand Investment, has announced an impressive expansion in Southeast Asia, securing 28 new signings this year, which will add over 3,400 units across various brands in key destinations. This remarkable growth represents more than half of Ascott's global signings to date, boosting its portfolio in Southeast Asia to over 360 properties across 86 cities in nine countries, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
Ascott's Chief Growth Officer, Ms. Serena Lim, emphasized the flexibility of the company's hotel-in-residence model, which caters to diverse travel needs and durations. "This model has proven resilient during and after the pandemic, establishing itself as a preferred choice in the lodging industry," she stated. The new signings will also introduce Ascott to cities like Purwakarta in Indonesia and Kulim in Malaysia.
The growth trajectory is significant; Ascott's portfolio has increased more than fivefold over the past decade, from 13,000 units in 2015 to over 67,000 today. The company was recognized by hospitality research firm STR as one of the top three global hospitality companies with the largest active pipeline in Southeast Asia, highlighting its leadership position in the market.
Ascott's strategy is rooted in a "glocal" approach, combining global brand strength with local market insights. This enables the company to capture inbound, intraregional, and domestic travel, further boosting its market performance. "Our deep cultural understanding and strong relationships with local owners provide us with a strategic advantage," Ms. Lim added, pointing to upcoming expansions into markets like the UK and Australia.
In Penang, Malaysia, Ascott has signed nine new properties in 2024 alone, almost doubling last year’s signings and enriching its offerings in the region. Among these is the 1926 Heritage Hotel by The Unlimited Collection, a former British colonial residence set to become a stunning 78-unit property.
In Batam, Indonesia, Ascott's portfolio has also doubled, now comprising 14 properties, including new global brands like The Unlimited Collection and Somerset. Notable recent openings include Oakwood Ha Long in Vietnam and Oakwood Hotel & Apartments Grand Batam in Indonesia.
Ascott is dedicated to providing unique experiences through its loyalty program, Ascott Star Rewards, which recently hosted an exclusive event during the Formula One night race in Singapore, enhancing member engagement and showcasing its commitment to experiential travel.
As the Southeast Asian hotel market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.78% to achieve US$16.41 billion in revenue by 2029, Ascott’s proactive approach to expansion positions it well for continued success. The region's tourism arrivals are anticipated to reach pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2024, further strengthening Ascott's market presence.\
Ascott continues to lead in hospitality, leveraging its diverse brands to meet the evolving needs of travelers across Southeast Asia. With a robust strategy focused on both growth and local engagement, Ascott is well-positioned to navigate the future of the hospitality industry.
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By Hariharan U
Published on February 19, 2026
CaratLane – A TATA Product and one of India’s leading omnichannel jewellery brands – marked a major global milestone with its first-ever international runway showcase at New York Fashion Week (NYFW), held at Chelsea Piers.
The debut positioned CaratLane on one of the world’s most influential fine jewellery platforms, underscoring its growing global ambition and ability to blend Indian craftsmanship with contemporary design aesthetics. Backed by the trust of the Tata Group, the showcase also highlighted the brand’s expanding international footprint, including its retail presence in New Jersey.
The runway featured eight curated looks from CaratLane’s celebrated collections Polki, Sol, Sandook, Eternity, Butterfly, and Peepal, crafted exclusively with natural diamonds. The Polki collection reimagined uncut diamond heritage pieces for modern wear, while Sol celebrated the radiance of sunrise with Citrines symbolising new beginnings. Sandook translated nostalgia into design through motifs inspired by marigolds and jharokhas, and Eternity highlighted timeless silhouettes in brilliant-cut diamonds.
Among the standout presentations were the iconic Butterfly collection, distinguished by its signature blue enamel, and Peepal, which combined diamonds with green alpanites set in yellow gold, inspired by the sacred peepal leaf.
Six of the looks were showcased by international models, while two were presented by Indian fashion influencers Pooja Mundhra and Anahita Bhooshan, adding cross-cultural depth and resonance to the event.
Saumen Bhaumik, Managing Director of CaratLane, said, “Our first-ever global runway showcase at New York Fashion Week is a defining milestone for CaratLane, one that affirmed how Indian art, design aesthetics, and craftsmanship can resonate powerfully on the world stage. This showcase reflected our belief that jewellery rooted in tradition yet designed for modern life can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in global fashion.”
With this debut, CaratLane reinforced its commitment to redefining fine jewellery for contemporary lifestyles, merging heritage, innovation, and everyday elegance while setting the stage for deeper global engagement in the years ahead.
About CaratLane
Founded in 2008 as one of India’s earliest online jewellery start-ups, CaratLane evolved into a seamless omni-channel retailer after investment from Titan in 2016. Today, backed by the Tata Group, the brand operates over 350 stores across India and internationally in New Jersey. Known for pioneering services such as CaratLane LIVE, Try at Home, and Solitaire Lounges, the brand continues to blend digital innovation with trusted craftsmanship to serve modern jewellery consumers.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on February 17, 2026
Thailand has introduced new visa rules that allow longer stays and make entry easier for international travellers, as part of a broader push to boost tourism and support economic recovery. The updated visa policy guidelines were recognised by the Cabinet following proposals from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, according to Airin Phanrit, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office.
The changes confirm a set of measures that authorities have already rolled out in 2025. These include expanded visa-free access, the introduction of new visa categories, and the launch of a digital arrival system aimed at simplifying travel procedures for visitors entering Thailand.
Under the revised visa exemption scheme, passport holders from 93 countries and territories can now enter Thailand without a visa for tourism, work, or short-term business purposes. Travellers under this scheme are allowed to stay for up to 60 days as a special case, making longer visits more convenient. In addition, passport holders from 31 countries and territories can apply for a Visa on Arrival at immigration checkpoints, with authorities also considering adding eight more countries in the next phase.
To cater to changing travel and work patterns, Thailand has introduced the Destination Thailand Visa. This new category allows foreigners to stay in the country for tourism and remote work, targeting travellers who wish to work online while living in Thailand for an extended period. Alongside this, a new Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa has been launched, enabling foreigners to stay in Thailand for study or combined study-and-work purposes under specific provisions.
Authorities are also reviewing and adjusting criteria for long-stay visas, particularly for elderly travellers planning to retire in Thailand. These steps aim to make long-term stays clearer and more accessible.
As part of wider structural reforms, the government has reduced the number of Non-Immigrant visa codes from 17 to 7. This change came into effect on August 31, 2025. The electronic visa system has been updated to reflect the new structure, and relevant agencies have been informed to ensure smooth implementation.
From January 1, 2025, travellers have been able to apply for an electronic visa through all 94 Thai embassies and consulates-general worldwide using the official online portal. This move has further simplified the visa application process.
For arrivals, the Immigration Bureau has developed the TM.6 online system, also known as the Thailand Digital Arrival Card. In use since May 1, 2025, the system replaces the earlier Electronic Travel Authorization process and allows travellers to complete arrival information online, reducing paperwork and improving processing at entry points.
Through these measures, Thailand aims to simplify visa procedures, expand visa-free and visa-on-arrival access, support remote workers and students, and enhance the overall travel experience for visitors planning a trip to the country.
Published on February 16, 2026
Year of the Horse is a time that brings families together in the spirit of gratitude, abundance, and fresh beginnings. Rooted in meaningful traditions, the season is celebrated with festive meals, symbolic rituals, and lively performances that welcome the new lunar year with hope and happiness.
Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Krabi, is preparing to mark the occasion with a refined oceanfront celebration that reflects the true essence of the festival. On 16 February, guests can gather at the Pool Lawn from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. for a special Reunion BBQ Dinner set under the stars.
The evening unfolds in a beautiful alfresco setting overlooking the ocean. A wide selection of live cooking stations will serve both hot and cold appetisers, wok-fried noodles, hearty soups, and freshly grilled specialities. The menu features jasmine tea-smoked BBQ pork ribs, whole grilled fish, crispy pork belly, flavourful side dishes, and festive desserts, offering a generous spread inspired by Chinese culinary traditions.
Adding to the festive mood, guests will enjoy a dramatic dragon dance and fire show, while a live band performs from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., creating a lively and joyful atmosphere for families and friends.
The celebrations continue on 17 February with a specially curated Chinese New Year breakfast. The morning begins with traditional prayers and meaningful rituals, followed by a vibrant lion dance, symbolising luck, strength, and prosperity. Together, these experiences set a positive and auspicious tone for the year ahead.
With the ocean as its backdrop and time-honoured traditions at its heart, the Year of the Horse celebrations at Phulay Bay promise moments of reflection, reunion, and renewal, welcoming the new lunar year in a setting filled with beauty and warmth.
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