Axi Plaza: Vietnam's Innovative Multipurpose Convention Center in Cam Ranh

Axi Plaza: Vietnam's Innovative Multipurpose Convention Center in Cam Ranh

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 28, 2024

Vietnam's picturesque Cam Ranh peninsula welcomes a groundbreaking addition to its landscape with the grand opening of Axi Plaza, a multifunctional convention center inspired by the nation's iconic coracle boats. Developed by The Anam Group, Axi Plaza stands as the region's largest convention center, offering unparalleled event facilities and complementing the group's prestigious resorts in the area.

Located on the spectacular beachfront of Long Beach, Axi Plaza boasts a striking design reminiscent of traditional Vietnamese basket boats. The center's remarkable features include a vast conference hall, a rooftop venue, an outdoor event space, and a diverse array of shopping and dining outlets spanning over 10,000 square meters.

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Axi Plaza's conference hall and ballroom area, covering 1197 square meters on the third floor, can accommodate up to 1000 guests. Featuring a high ceiling adorned with timber beams and a cutting-edge LED screen, the hall offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including swimming pools and the ocean.

On the fifth floor, a 360-degree rooftop area spanning 1077 square meters provides an ideal setting for receptions and corporate events, offering sweeping vistas of Long Beach's pristine sands and azure waters. Adjacent to the building, an outdoor event space overlooks the beachfront, complemented by lush lawns and picture-perfect swimming pools.

Inside, guests can unwind at the Axi Plaza Lounge, offering Vietnamese cuisine and panoramic views of the swimming pools. The center's first floor is dedicated to retail therapy, with 46 shops ranging in size, while indoor and outdoor dining areas on the fourth floor cater to culinary delights.

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The Anam Group's founder, Pham Van Hien, expressed excitement about Axi Plaza's potential to elevate Cam Ranh's status as a premier destination for both business and leisure travelers. He highlighted the center's convenience for travelers needing a place to spend time between hotel check-out and flight departures.

With plans to host various events, including company gatherings, weddings, and forums in collaboration with the local tourism department, Axi Plaza aims to become a hub for cultural and entertainment activities. As part of its commitment to preserving Vietnamese heritage, the center's design pays homage to the country's rich maritime history, symbolized by the iconic basket boat.

Axi Plaza represents a significant milestone in Vietnam's hospitality industry, offering a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. With its exceptional facilities and strategic location, it promises to redefine the convention experience in Cam Ranh and beyond.


Elite Island Resorts Unveils “A Love Letter To Antigua” Campaign

Elite Island Resorts Unveils “A Love Letter To Antigua” Campaign

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 22, 2026

Elite Island Resorts has launched its latest campaign, “A Love Letter To Antigua,” inviting travellers and travel professionals to experience the island beyond just a resort stay. Designed for the summer season, the campaign focuses on Antigua’s rich culture, history, and scenic beauty through engaging and interactive storytelling.

The initiative brings together curated itineraries created in collaboration with content creators, along with a 360° interactive map that gives a closer look at the island. From cinematic visuals to detailed travel ideas, the campaign positions Antigua as an ideal summer destination for those seeking a well-rounded Caribbean experience.

The brand’s portfolio in Antigua includes a range of all-inclusive properties, each offering a distinct experience. Galley Bay Resort & Spa and Hammock Cove Antigua cater to adults looking for a peaceful escape, while Pineapple Beach Club Antigua and The Verandah Antigua offer lively beachfront settings. St. James’s Club & Villas adds a family-friendly touch with activities suited for all age groups. As part of the campaign, The Verandah Antigua is offering a “5th Night FREE” deal, valid for bookings made until May 31, 2026, for travel between May 1 and September 30, 2026.

A key highlight of the campaign is its interactive approach to travel planning. Through a social media series, content creators engage with audiences by allowing them to vote, ask questions, and shape their ideal itineraries. These journeys cover popular attractions such as Nelson's Dockyard, Devil's Bridge, rainforest trails, and local cultural events, helping travellers visualise their trip in a more personalised way.

The newly introduced 360° Antigua map further enhances this experience by showcasing all 365 beaches, natural harbours, cultural landmarks, and lesser-known spots across the island. With integrated videos and creator insights, the map offers a virtual preview of what travellers can expect before they even arrive.

Adding to this, Elite Island Resorts has also released a national parks video featuring Antigua’s protected landscapes. Narrated by Causion, widely known as the “Reggae Ambassador of Antigua,” the film captures stunning aerial views of the island’s coastline and landmarks, including areas around Devil's Bridge and Nelson's Dockyard National Park.

Beyond tourism, the resorts continue to stay closely connected with local communities. The Verandah Antigua supports sustainability by producing its own water, beer, and nursery resources on-site. Pineapple Beach Club contributes to literacy programs, supports schools, and runs a turtle sanctuary, while also promoting products from nearby village businesses like Granma Aki's hot sauce. Galley Bay Resort & Spa focuses on education and environmental efforts through scholarships, school support, and eco-friendly practices such as hydroponic farming, recycling, and wildlife protection in partnership with AB Sea Turtle Awareness.

"Antigua is a Caribbean gem unlike any other, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture," says Kari Tarnowski, Chief Commercial Officer of Elite Island Resorts. "Through our community partnerships, regenerative tourism initiatives, creator-curated itineraries, and new 360° interactive island map, we are creating meaningful ways for travelers to experience Antigua through both its landscapes and the distinctive experiences our hotels provide. We want every guest to leave inspired, having discovered the heart of the destination, and eager to return."

With “A Love Letter To Antigua,” the brand encourages travellers to explore deeper, plan better, and truly connect with the destination.


Ludlow Coffee Supply Expands in Miami with New All-Day Café Concept

Ludlow Coffee Supply Expands in Miami with New All-Day Café Concept

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

Ludlow Coffee Supply, the Lower East Side-born coffee brand known for its community-driven approach and single-origin coffees, is expanding its presence in Miami with a new location at Domus Brickell Park. The opening marks the brand’s third location in South Florida and second in Miami.

This new outpost represents a significant step for Ludlow Coffee Supply, introducing its first all-day café concept that transitions from a daytime coffee destination into an evening cocktail lounge. The move reflects the brand’s evolution from a neighbourhood coffee shop into a broader hospitality experience that blends coffee culture with nightlife.

Building on its success in New York and South Florida, the brand has developed a loyal following through its specialty coffee offerings and fresh food selections. The Domus Brickell Park location will roll out in two phases. The first phase will feature Ludlow’s signature café experience, similar to its existing outlet at 801 Brickell, while the second phase will introduce a full-service evening menu along with curated programming such as DJ sets, listening sessions, and late-night events.

Speaking about the expansion, John Seymour said, “Miami has always felt like an extension of what we built on the Lower East Side; a city that moves fast but still makes time for real connection. Domus Brickell Park gives us the space to fully realize that vision: a place where the morning espresso crowd and the late-night cocktail crowd are really the same people, just at different hours. We're not just opening a café - we're planting a neighborhood.”

The café menu will feature crafted lattes, espressos, single-origin cold brews, teas, and smoothies, along with signature flavours such as maple, bourbon vanilla, salted caramel, and mocha. Food offerings include breakfast tacos, sandwiches, salads, and grab-and-go options. As the day transitions into evening, a dedicated cocktail programme will take centre stage, extending the experience into a social nightlife setting.

Designed by Zyscovich, the space blends Ludlow’s Lower East Side character with Miami’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Guests can enjoy a bright coffee bar for work and meetings, along with an open patio designed for relaxed, all-day gatherings. As night falls, the venue transforms into a vibrant cocktail space, bringing a new energy to the neighbourhood.

Adding to the experience, Ludlow Market Supply will offer a curated selection of wellness products, pantry essentials, home goods, and vintage items, enhancing the brand’s community-focused approach.

With this launch, Ludlow Coffee Supply continues to expand its footprint while introducing a new format that brings together coffee, culture, and nightlife in a seamless experience.


The Imperia by Dhaba Appoints Chef Jasbir Singh Adhikari as Assistant Chef

The Imperia by Dhaba Appoints Chef Jasbir Singh Adhikari as Assistant Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

The Imperia by Dhaba has announced the appointment of Jasbir Singh Adhikari as Assistant Chef. The restaurant, known for its fine-dining Indian cuisine, is part of a well-established family-owned group with a strong presence across New York City and New Jersey.

With an impressive 36 years of culinary experience, Chef Adhikari brings deep expertise in Indian cuisine, especially in traditional and tandoor-based cooking. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation for balancing authenticity with evolving global tastes, shaped by his extensive work across international kitchens.

He has previously worked with Old World Hospitality, including its well-known restaurant Chor Bazar, where he contributed to showcasing India’s rich culinary heritage. His international experience includes roles at Tandoori King, Indian Restaurant Maharani, and Indian Restaurant Ganga, further refining his skills and understanding of diverse dining preferences.

In India, he has also been associated with Residency Resort Pvt. Ltd., strengthening his foundation in premium hospitality and guest-focused dining experiences. His career across continents reflects his adaptability, consistency, and commitment to quality.

In his new role, Chef Adhikari will support the culinary leadership team in delivering authentic Indian flavours while maintaining the brand’s standards of excellence and innovation.

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Sharing his thoughts, Chef Jasbir Singh Adhikari said, “I am truly honored to join The Imperia by Dhaba, a brand that represents authenticity and excellence in Indian cuisine. I look forward to contributing my experience to create memorable dining experiences while staying true to traditional flavors.”

The management expressed confidence that his experience and passion will play a key role in enhancing guest satisfaction and further strengthening the restaurant’s reputation in the region.

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