Banyan Group Unveils Eco-Friendly Laguna Lakeside Residences

Banyan Group Unveils Eco-Friendly Laguna Lakeside Residences

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 4, 2024

Banyan Group is excited to announce the launch of the new eco-friendly Laguna Lakeside Residences, located in the renowned Laguna Phuket integrated resort community at Bang Tao Beach on Phuket’s sought-after Central West Coast. These new low-rise residences present a rare opportunity to join this iconic 1000-acre resort community.

Positioned next to the first block of Laguna Lakeside Residences, which sold out and was completed in June, these new homes are ideally located at the entrance of Laguna Phuket. They overlook a serene lagoon and are within walking distance of the vibrant Boat Avenue entertainment district.

Set amidst lush landscaped gardens, the one, two, and three-bedroom residences feature stunning rooftop infinity pools. These homes offer a sleek contemporary design, providing an affordable yet luxurious way to enjoy the exclusive Laguna Phuket lifestyle while staying connected to nature.

“Laguna Lakeside Residences are crafted with the same precision and attention to detail as other Banyan Group properties,” said Banyan Group founder Mr. Ho Kwon Ping. “It’s akin to purchasing a luxury car from a brand like BMW or Mercedes; even the smaller models uphold the same high standards of quality and craftsmanship.”

Designed for those who desire a close connection to nature without sacrificing modern amenities, Laguna Lakeside Residences offer a tranquil environment with manicured gardens and a multi-purpose lawn with a boardwalk shaded by tall trees.

image

The launch coincides with a booming real estate market in Phuket, driven by a growing demand for second homes or relocation options from families worldwide. “There’s a significant demand for new homes in Phuket, influenced by trends such as urban flight, geopolitical issues, and the island’s appeal with its world-class schools and hospitals,” explained Banyan Group founder and Executive Chairman KP Ho.

He also highlighted that high-quality properties in Phuket remain more affordable compared to markets like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Europe. Phuket’s strategic location, within a six-hour flight of over 40% of the world’s population, its favorable climate, and the presence of international schools and hospitals contribute to its attractiveness.

The new Laguna Lakeside Residences include one to three-bedroom condominiums spread across four low-rise blocks, each featuring an expansive rooftop infinity pool. Prices start from THB 9 million, with the developer offering financing options with staged payments over several years, a unique offering in Thailand.

Laguna Lakeside Residences are part of Asia’s most iconic integrated resort, Laguna Phuket, which includes award-winning spas and Laguna Golf Phuket, named “Thailand’s Best Golf Course” by the World Golf Awards. Located just 30 minutes from Phuket International Airport, the residences offer a complete lifestyle with world-class dining, spas, golf, education programs, and social events.

Residents will also gain access to exclusive privileges, discounts, and rewards through The Sanctuary Club, Banyan Group’s signature property owners’ program, which connects them to a global network of exceptional properties.

Phuket is celebrated for its tropical lifestyle, comfortable climate, affordable living, top-tier private healthcare, international schools, shopping malls, and the welcoming Thai hospitality in the ‘Land of Smiles.’

Laguna Resorts & Hotels, listed on the stock exchanges of Thailand and Singapore, is allied with Banyan Tree Holdings, enhancing the credibility and allure of this new development.


Direct Ahmedabad–Colombo Flights Launched with City of Dreams Sri Lanka Partnership

Direct Ahmedabad–Colombo Flights Launched with City of Dreams Sri Lanka Partnership

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 7, 2026

City of Dreams Sri Lanka, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, and Walkers Tours have joined hands with FitsAir to introduce direct passenger flights between Ahmedabad and Colombo. This move is set to make international travel easier for travellers from Gujarat while opening up better access to Sri Lanka’s popular leisure destinations.

Operated by FitsAir, Sri Lanka’s first private international airline, the new route will run three times a week. The service is aimed at meeting the growing demand for overseas holidays from Gujarat, offering a smooth and direct travel option to Colombo.

With this improved connectivity, travellers can explore a range of premium stays under Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, including Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, Cinnamon Grand Colombo, Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, and Cinnamon Red Colombo.

Gujarat is steadily growing as an important source market for Sri Lanka, supported by strong cultural connections and increasing interest in international travel. The launch of these direct flights is expected to strengthen tourism between Ahmedabad and Colombo, positioning Sri Lanka as a preferred short-haul destination.

Located in the heart of Colombo, City of Dreams Sri Lanka brings together entertainment, hospitality, and lifestyle experiences. Travellers can also opt for curated holiday packages that include stays at Cinnamon properties along with multi-destination itineraries across Sri Lanka, such as cultural trips to Kandy and beach getaways.

Nayana Mawilmada, President – Leisure & Property, John Keells Holdings, said, “We are delighted to strengthen our presence in the Indian market, particularly in Gujarat, which continues to show strong potential for outbound travel. This strategic partnership and the introduction of direct connectivity from Ahmedabad make it significantly easier for travellers to experience the unique blend of luxury, entertainment, and cultural richness that City of Dreams Sri Lanka and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts have to offer.”

Kamal Munasinghe, Senior Vice President – Colombo Hotels, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and General Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, added, “Ahmedabad is an important and fast-growing market for us. With the launch of these direct flights, we are excited to welcome more travellers from Gujarat to Colombo. From the immersive experiences at City of Dreams Sri Lanka to the diverse hospitality offerings across Cinnamon properties, we look forward to delivering memorable stays tailored to Indian guests.”

Nalaka Amaratunga - Chief Executive Officer, Destination Management Sector, Walkers Tours commented, “This partnership marks an important milestone in enhancing connectivity between Ahmedabad and Colombo. By combining direct flights with thoughtfully curated travel packages, we aim to offer a seamless and enriching Sri Lankan holiday experience for travellers from Gujarat.”

Starting from 15 May, 2026, flights will operate three times a week between Ahmedabad and Colombo. Specially curated travel packages by Cinnamon, which include return airfare, a two-night stay with breakfast at Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, and private airport transfers, offering a convenient and value-driven travel option.

Travel Schedule – Effective from 15th May

  • Ahmedabad → Colombo: 03:40 – 06:50

  • Ahmedabad → Colombo: 10:45 – 13:55

  • Colombo → Ahmedabad: 23:25 – 02:35

  • Colombo → Ahmedabad: 06:30 – 09:40.


Saudia Introduces Google Feature to Help Track Lost Baggage

Saudia Introduces Google Feature to Help Track Lost Baggage

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 7, 2026

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has introduced Google’s Find Hub share item location feature to make baggage recovery smoother and more efficient. The move adds an optional layer of support for guests dealing with delayed or missing baggage.

With this feature, guests using a compatible tracker tag or Bluetooth device can create a secure and temporary link that shares the location of their baggage. This link can be attached while reporting a lost or delayed bag, allowing Saudia’s ground teams to access real-time location details and speed up the recovery process.

The shared access is time-bound and automatically expires after seven days. Guests can also stop sharing the location at any point, ensuring they stay in complete control of their information throughout the process.

This update works alongside Saudia’s existing baggage handling systems, giving travellers better visibility and added reassurance during their journey. It is designed to make the experience more transparent while keeping things simple and user-friendly.

Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Guest Experience Officer at Saudia, said: “Our focus is on giving guests confidence and reassurance throughout their journey. Initiatives like this reflect our broader commitment to clarity, transparency, and ensuring guests feel informed and in control at every stage of the experience. It is about strengthening trust and providing peace of mind through thoughtful, guest-centered decisions.”

By rolling out this feature, Saudia becomes one of the first airlines globally to adopt such technology, highlighting its focus on digital innovation and improved guest experiences.

The feature has been built with privacy in mind. Location details are shared only for baggage recovery purposes and remain accessible to the airline for a limited time. Once the process is completed or the guest decides to stop sharing, access is automatically removed.

Guests can use this feature by ensuring their device and tracker accessory are compatible and updated to the latest supported software versions.


InterGlobe’s Miiro Opens Second Vienna Property with Miiro Spittelberg

InterGlobe’s Miiro Opens Second Vienna Property with Miiro Spittelberg

By Author

Published on April 6, 2026

InterGlobe Enterprises’ lifestyle hospitality brand Miiro has strengthened its European presence with the opening of Miiro Spittelberg, marking its second property in Vienna.

Located in the historic Spittelberg District, just behind the MuseumsQuartier, the hotel is set within one of the city’s most culturally vibrant neighbourhoods. Known for its cobbled streets, artisan heritage, independent galleries, and lively café culture, the area offers an authentic window into Vienna’s contemporary creative scene.

Miiro Spittelberg features 132 guestrooms and suites, designed with a blend of warm neutrals, bold accents, natural textures, and soft lighting. Staying true to Miiro’s ‘Brilliantly Considered’ design philosophy, the rooms are crafted to provide a calming yet refined atmosphere, complete with plush beds, rainfall showers, cosy reading nooks, and premium toiletries.

The hotel’s design combines sleek modern lines with creative details, offering guests a space that feels both stylish and comfortable. Whether exploring Vienna’s iconic landmarks or unwinding within the property, the experience is designed to feel immersive and connected to its surroundings.

Dining at the hotel reflects a seamless all-day concept inspired by European café culture with an Italian twist. The experience is anchored by Poco, an Italian-inspired urban pizzeria and bar, adding a vibrant social element to the property.

Art plays a central role in the hotel’s identity, highlighted by an immersive ceiling mural that encourages personal reflection. This is complemented by a curated collection of works by Austrian and international artists displayed throughout the space. Additional amenities include a library, a 24-hour gym, and Miiro’s signature Refresh Room.

Commenting on the opening, Neena Gupta said, “The opening of Miiro Spittelberg marks an exciting milestone as we continue to grow Miiro in culturally rich European cities. Vienna’s artistic spirit and deep-rooted heritage make it a natural home for not just one but two of our properties, and the neighbourhood of Spittelberg reflects the lively, local energy we seek to celebrate.”

With this launch, Miiro continues to expand its footprint across Europe, with a growing portfolio spanning cities such as Paris, Barcelona, London, Gstaad, and Vienna, while InterGlobe’s broader international presence extends to destinations including Amsterdam, Munich, Prague, Budapest, Hamburg, and Melbourne.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.