BCCM and Birchwood University Join Forces as Training and Delivery Partners

BCCM and Birchwood University Join Forces as Training and Delivery Partners

By Author

Published on July 5, 2023

The British Columbia College of Management (BCCM) has recently forged a significant collaboration with Birchwood University, solidifying their alliance as esteemed training and delivery partners. This partnership underscores BCCM's unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality education in the field of hospitality and providing students with invaluable learning experiences.

Mr Deepak Jha, MD & CEO of BCCM, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "BCCM is dedicated to integrating the best practices from India and around the world in hospitality education. We take immense pride in our association with Birchwood University, a renowned institution. This partnership paves the way for Indian students to compete globally. The courses offered through this collaboration will significantly enhance our students' education, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the international arena. Before joining forces, BCCM underwent a rigorous evaluation process, ensuring that we met Birchwood University's high standards in terms of infrastructure, faculty, teaching methodologies, excellence, and adherence to prescribed parameters."

Sunny Dua, Director of Partnerships at Birchwood University, acknowledged BCCM as a distinguished training and delivery partner, recognizing their dedication to providing high-quality education and fostering valuable learning experiences. This collaboration signifies a shared commitment to excellence and the pursuit of educational greatness.

Birchwood University is renowned for its exceptional teaching and research pedagogy. All programs offered through the university are developed collaboratively with industry partners, who are responsible for creating study materials and evaluating program effectiveness. Regardless of their geographical location, students enrolled in Birchwood University programs benefit from the same high standards of education, a multidisciplinary approach, high-quality instruction, and collaboration with partners to address global challenges.

In addition to Birchwood University, BCCM has established partnerships with prominent entities such as the National Skill Development Council (NSDC), Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), Shri Venkateshwara University, Lingaya's Vidyapeeth in India, and Selkirk College, Can Pathways, Yogi's Kitchen, Niagara College, and World Trade Centre BRNO in Canada. These partnerships aim to maximize opportunities for BCCM students. The institute also enjoys the support of Zucol, Careerera, Radisson Hotel Greater Noida, Atharva Hotels and Resorts, and L&T Financial Services. BCCM has forged ties with major recruiters in the hospitality industry, including Marriott, Accor Hotels, Edhas Hotels, The Lalit, J W Marriott, IHG Resorts, Fortune Hotels, Lemon Tree Hotels, Ramada, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, Radisson Hotels and Resorts, and Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces. Moreover, BCCM has established educational associations with Coventry University in the UK and Birchwood University in the USA.

More recently, BCCM has partnered with the European Institute of Management and Technology (EIMT) as an authorized Programme Delivery Associate. This collaboration allows BCCM to provide guidance, counselling, and admissions assistance to students interested in the various courses offered at EIMT. With its incorporation in Switzerland, one of the world's most sought-after and vibrant destinations, the European Institute of Management and Technology offers an exceptional blend of high-quality education and an exemplary quality of life.

One notable aspect of BCCM's offerings is their commitment to a 100% job placement guarantee for all courses. With many promising ventures on the horizon, the institute is poised for continued success in the coming years. Recognizing the financial concerns of students and parents, BCCM provides easy finance options, bringing students closer to realizing their international dreams.


Acqualina Resort Debuts Luxurious One-Bedroom Oceanfront Villa Suite

Acqualina Resort Debuts Luxurious One-Bedroom Oceanfront Villa Suite

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 21, 2025

Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach, the Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five Diamond luxury resort in Sunny Isles Beach, has unveiled its newest accommodation: the One-Bedroom Oceanfront Villa Suite with Convertible Den. Designed by Isabel Tragash of STA Architectural Group, the suite offers a unique blend of residential comfort and Acqualina’s renowned service and amenities.

Located on the fifth floor of the resort, the 2,767-square-foot Villa Suite redefines the luxury hotel experience with its contemporary interiors, flexible layout, and expansive outdoor living spaces. The design embraces modern Mediterranean aesthetics, featuring curving silhouettes, muted color palettes, and dramatic uplighting, creating a sense of warmth and sophistication.

“The One-Bedroom Oceanfront Villa Suite represents a new chapter of luxury at Acqualina,” said Deborah Yager Fleming, CEO and Partner of Acqualina Resort & Residences. “Designed for both extended stays and intimate escapes, the Villa provides our guests with the feeling of a private residence while enjoying the impeccable service and amenities that have made Acqualina the most awarded beachfront resort in the United States.”

The suite features an open-concept layout with a gourmet kitchen equipped with Calacatta Oro marble countertops, Miele appliances, and a full backsplash. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the living and breakfast areas, adorned with custom-made furnishings, Italian-sourced pieces, and curated décor accents. Artistic touches include abstract artwork by Domenica Brockman, Innovations Pintuck wallpaper, and a Philip Jeffries Terra Tones accent wall, enhancing the suite’s elegant ambiance.

The primary bedroom is designed as a serene sanctuary, featuring a Pianca bed, Cattelan Italia nightstands, a curved upholstered sofa, and a dramatic crystal pendant light. The bathroom showcases Cosmos stone floors, onyx walls, expansive vanities, and premium fixtures by Dornbracht and Kohler.

A convertible den adds flexibility, transforming into a guest bedroom or private office with Italian-built millwork, a concealed queen-sized bed, and a dedicated bathroom.

One of the suite’s highlights is its two terraces, totaling nearly 900 square feet. The ocean-facing terrace, furnished with Harbour’s Victoria Collection, lush trees, and topiaries, offers an alfresco living experience, perfect for morning coffee, sunset cocktails, or sophisticated entertaining.

With its meticulous design, high-end international brands, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, the One-Bedroom Oceanfront Villa Suite sets a new benchmark for luxury accommodations in South Florida, promising an unmatched residential-style retreat for guests seeking both elegance and comfort.


LEGO Code Break Brings Gaming Universes to Life in San Diego

LEGO Code Break Brings Gaming Universes to Life in San Diego

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 20, 2025

The LEGO Group has launched LEGO Code Break, a first-of-its-kind gaming adventure that bridges virtual and real-world play, bringing gamers together to celebrate beloved gaming universes. From October 16–18, fans nationwide are invited to uncover a secret code inspired by iconic games like Minecraft, Fortnite, and Sonic the Hedgehog, unlocking a massive LEGO vault packed with legendary prizes in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter during TwitchCon 2025.

The challenge begins online at LEGO.com/CodeBreak, where hidden clues within gaming content help players crack the code. Participants can follow gaming creators like Andre Rebelo (TypicalGamer), Alex Kushelevskiy (FORMULA), and Jess Adel (JustJesss) to spot letters, numbers, or symbols crucial to unlocking the vault. The grand prize? An exclusive collection of LEGO gaming sets, perfect for building the ultimate gaming sanctuary.

The on-site activation in Gaslamp Park transforms San Diego into a LEGO gaming playground. Visitors can explore a massive mystery vault, build mini LEGO gaming controllers, check out custom LEGO set displays, and pose with larger-than-life video game characters. The experience runs daily from 12 PM to 8 PM, giving fans a hands-on taste of LEGO gaming creativity.

Beth McKenna, Head of U.S. Marketing at the LEGO Group, shared:

“With LEGO Code Break, we’re combining our rich gaming legacy with hands-on, real-world experiences. It’s a celebration of gaming culture and creativity, showing how virtual worlds thrive when they meet LEGO bricks.”

LEGO gaming sets allow fans to build, display, and play within their favorite video game universes, turning digital adventures into tactile, interactive fun. From crafting bespoke worlds in Minecraft, to epic battles in Fortnite, and fast-paced challenges with Sonic the Hedgehog, LEGO continues to unite gaming and creativity like never before.

For more information and to join the quest, visit LEGO.com/CodeBreak.


Omio’s NowNext ’25 Report Unveils the New Era of Intentional Travel

Omio’s NowNext ’25 Report Unveils the New Era of Intentional Travel

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 20, 2025

Omio, the leading multi-modal booking platform, has released its annual NowNext ’25 report, revealing how global travel will evolve over the next year, driven by emotional motivations, economic realities, and a growing sense of purpose among travellers.

Commissioned in partnership with YouGov, the report draws insights from an omnibus survey of over 10,500 respondents across Italy, Spain, Germany, the UK, the US, Brazil, Japan, and Australia. Combined with Omio’s own platform data, the findings present a detailed picture of what’s next for the world of travel, from mindful spending to cultural immersion and destination discovery.

Key Themes from the NowNext ’25 Report:

Worldwide Woe:

Global events continue to shape travel decisions, with 69% of respondents saying such factors will impact their plans. Yet, the desire to travel remains strong, 30% still plan to travel more than before.

Deal or No Destination:

Rising costs have made travellers smarter about spending. 38% will prioritise travel over other non-essential expenses, while 31% plan more flexibly and 27% prefer early, careful planning, giving rise to the ‘Travel Thrifties’, who balance wanderlust with budget wisdom.

Love EU More:

Europe continues to dominate travel plans, with 56% of Brits, 45% of Germans, and 42% of Italians and Spaniards planning European getaways, reflecting a focus on proximity and comfort amid global uncertainty.

World of Mouth:

Inspiration is becoming more personal again. While social media influences 29% of travellers, 42% rely on past trips and 39% on word-of-mouth recommendations. Interestingly, 23% admit being influenced by films and TV shows. marking the rise of screen-driven tourism.

Beach, Please:

2026 will mark the revival of seaside getaways, with 46% seeking relaxing beach holidays and 51% wanting to return recharged. A growing 20% prefer solo, reflective trips, while 18% focus on wellness and self-care.

Overtourism & Out:

Sustainable travel remains vital but is evolving. Travellers are focusing on supporting local businesses (25%), embracing regional culture (38%), and visiting under-the-radar locations (32%) rather than just choosing eco-transport.

Capital Losses:

Travellers are shifting from capitals to smaller, lesser-known cities. 21% plan to explore smaller metropolises for lower prices (51%) and fewer crowds (44%), while Omio’s data reveals bookings to second cities have risen by 34% year-on-year.

The Gender (Off)Balance

Gendered travel motivations are diverging. 19% of men plan to travel solo, seeking disconnection, while women lean toward connection, 34% for family reunions, 30% to connect emotionally, and 22% to travel with friends.

Generation Zealous:

Gen Z is driving change with a mix of ambition and awareness. 34% want to travel more, 26% plan longer trips, and 23% will opt for greener transport. They’re the most budget-conscious and environmentally mindful of all age groups.

Reflecting on these insights, Veronica Diquattro, President of B2C and Supply, Omio, said:

“Travel has shifted dramatically in recent years, from no travel during the pandemic to revenge travel, and now into a new era of intentional travel. The desire to explore remains strong, and travellers continue to find a way. Our report reveals a new age of conscious, smart, and value-driven travel. At Omio, we dedicate our efforts to keeping pace with emerging traveller demands, ensuring every journey is seamless and inspiring.”

Through NowNext ’25, Omio spotlights how travel continues to evolve, not just as a leisure activity, but as a deeply intentional, reflective, and value-driven experience for the modern traveller.

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