Moxy Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio, has officially made its debut in Nepal with the launch of Moxy Kathmandu. Designed for travellers who enjoy playful energy and creative spaces, the hotel brings Moxy’s bold personality to the cultural and contemporary heart of Kathmandu.

Moxy Kathmandu is located in Durbarmarg, one of the city’s most vibrant business and entertainment districts. With Tribhuvan International Airport just 15 minutes away, the hotel serves as a convenient base for guests looking to explore the city. Popular attractions such as the UNESCO-listed Durbar Square, the peaceful Swayambhunath Stupa, and the bustling lanes of Thamel are easily accessible. The neighbourhood also connects guests to Kathmandu’s emerging modern culture, including indie cafés, art galleries, rooftop lounges, and lively music venues.

Speaking about the brand’s entry into Nepal, Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International, said, “Moxy’s bold, playful spirit is perfectly suited for a city like Kathmandu, where tradition meets vibrant modernity. As demand for experiences that are both unconventional and culturally connected increases, Moxy Kathmandu brings eclectic youthful energy to match the pace of the city. We are proud to introduce this lifestyle brand to Nepal - our first in the country and third in South Asia as we expand our portfolio in the region to attract travelers seeking style, energy, and authenticity.”

Staying true to the Moxy experience, guests are welcomed at The Moxy Bar, which doubles as the hotel’s check-in. A complimentary handcrafted cocktail sets the tone for a stay filled with fun and spontaneity. The open lobby is adorned with modern artwork inspired by Nepali culture, creating a lively space where guests can meet, relax, and enjoy vibey music. A dedicated recreation zone offers air hockey, board games, and interactive corners that enhance the social atmosphere. Adding to the excitement is the signature Moxy Hookup, which surprises guests with perks such as free drinks, local snacks, exclusive discounts, or unique gifts.

The hotel features 101 smartly designed guestrooms that balance comfort and functionality. Each room is equipped with plush bedding, walk-in showers, 55-inch HD Smart TVs, motion-activated LED lights, peg walls, modular furniture, and intuitive layouts that allow guests to personalize their stay. A well-equipped Fitness Center keeps up with the active lifestyle of today’s travellers.

Moxy Kathmandu also elevates dining with two standout lifestyle spaces. LA HACIENDA, Barra y Cocina Latina, located on Level 11, offers a Latin American culinary journey curated by Mexican Chef Martin Hernandez Lopez, paired with sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley. The venue’s striking design, led by New York-based Mexican designer Pablo Castellanos, blends storytelling with modern aesthetics. CARIÑO, Terraza Latina brings a relaxed open-air vibe, perfect for sipping handcrafted cocktails while enjoying the city skyline. Both outlets aim to attract international travellers and locals with their global flavours and lively ambience.

Sharing his excitement for the launch, Subarna Thapa, Captain, Moxy Kathmandu, said, “Kathmandu is a city full of character. It’s ancient yet modern, vibrant yet laid-back, always moving, always evolving. That’s what makes it the perfect match for Moxy. We’re bringing a hotel experience that’s bold, social, and full of personality, where guests don’t just stay, they plug into the city’s energy, and we can’t wait to see it come to life.”

With its energetic design, social spaces, and youthful spirit, Moxy Kathmandu marks a fresh chapter for lifestyle hospitality in Nepal.

Goa and Israel recently took a step toward stronger tourism collaboration as Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, met with a delegation from the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) in Panaji.

The IMOT delegation, including Galit Hoffman, Consul – Tourism Affairs for India, and Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing, IMOT India, discussed opportunities to boost accessibility and travel between the two countries, highlighting the potential of a direct air link between Goa and Tel Aviv.

Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, "Goa welcomes every opportunity to strengthen its global tourism partnerships. A direct connection with Tel Aviv holds strong potential to enhance two-way travel, and we are committed to extending all possible support to airlines evaluating this route."

The delegation also proposed hosting a roadshow in Goa to showcase Israel’s tourism offerings and engage key travel trade partners. The meeting concluded positively, with both sides aligned on advancing dialogue and exploring actionable pathways for direct connectivity.

Galit Hoffman, Consul – Tourism Affairs for India, IMOT, commented, "Goa has long held a special place for Israeli travellers, and strengthening connectivity will only deepen this relationship. We are optimistic about the potential of a direct Goa–Tel Aviv flight and look forward to continued collaboration with the Government of Goa."

Goa remains a preferred destination for Israeli travellers, with around 50,000 Israelis visiting India annually, many choosing Goa. Israel, in turn, continues to attract Indian travellers with its rich history, adventure offerings, natural landscapes, and culinary experiences. From January to November 2025, Israel recorded 1.18 million international arrivals and is expected to close the year at around 1.3 million, with India ranking among its top ten source markets globally.

Enhanced air connectivity is expected to boost tourism, strengthen cultural ties, and open new avenues for collaboration between Goa and Israel.

White Star, one of South Africa’s most trusted and loved maize meal brands, has made a heartfelt comeback to KwaZulu-Natal with its new campaign titled “Own Your Shine.” More than a relaunch, the initiative celebrates the deep cultural roots, strong food traditions and vibrant community spirit that define the province.

For years, White Star has held a special place in South African homes. It is more than maize meal, it represents comfort, togetherness and heritage passed down across generations. With this new campaign, the brand strengthens its bond with the people of KZN, reaffirming its connection with families who have grown up with its familiar taste.

The campaign highlights three inspiring personalities who proudly represent KZN:
• Zamani Mbatha, a well-known actor from Umlazi, admired for his ambition, values and storytelling.
• Azana, an award-winning Afro-soul singer from Durban whose voice captures the feeling of homecoming.
• Chef Lucia Mthiyane, a celebrated KZN-born chef known for her passion for traditional flavours and generational recipes.

From township kitchens to large family gatherings, White Star has long been part of everyday life in KZN. Through this campaign, the brand will reconnect with communities through vibrant local activations and uplifting initiatives across Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Umlazi, KwaMashu, Inanda and surrounding areas.

“KwaZulu-Natal holds a powerful place in the heart of our national narrative. It is a province rich in culture and community spirit,” says Jonita Cuff, Marketing Manager for White Star. “Our brand’s values are deeply rooted in these same qualities. Through this campaign, we are honouring the proud spirit of KwaZulu-Natal and celebrating local families with a brand that has always belonged here. No matter where life takes us, the taste of home will always be White Star.”

As a tribute to KZN’s artistic heritage, White Star has partnered with Cosmo Extraordinary Creations, a local artisan group known for their beautiful beadwork inspired by Zulu culture. This collaboration includes a limited-edition set of beaded wooden spoons, a meaningful nod to the traditional role wooden spoons play in preparing pap. The partnership seamlessly blends culture, craft and cuisine, celebrating homegrown artistry and everyday cooking traditions.

Cosmo Mafoti, founder of Cosmo Extraordinary Creations, shares, "Being part of a brand that has been an integral part of so many South African homes is truly an honour. Our beadwork tells the story of Zulu culture and tradition, and to see it paired with something as cherished as White Star pap feels like a perfect harmony of heritage and community. We are proud to bring this beautiful art to the everyday kitchen, making each meal a celebration of who we are."

The “Own Your Shine” campaign will roll out through Shisa Nyama activations, in-store visits, product sampling, media events and township engagements. Along with this, consumer rewards will bring added value and joy to families across the province, reinforcing White Star’s place as a brand that truly belongs to KZN.