Beyond the Basket: 8 Unique Easter Escapes

Beyond the Basket: 8 Unique Easter Escapes

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on March 28, 2024

Easter is upon us, and if you're looking for extraordinary ways to celebrate, we've got just the thing for you. From lavish brunches overlooking Mumbai's skyline to luxurious resort stays in the Maldives, there's a perfect getaway for everyone. Treat yourself to spa indulgence, relish exquisite meals, and create unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Here are eight fantastic options to make your Easter holiday truly special:

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai

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Dive into an epicurean adventure at AER with their new Sunday Brunch. Indulge in delightful Easter specials amidst sweeping views of Mumbai's cityscape and sea. Each drink, expertly crafted by Beverage Manager Alexandre Renoue and his team, pairs perfectly with a vast menu ranging from refreshing poke bowls to sumptuous skewers. Enjoy unlimited food, cocktails, and live music for a memorable weekend in SoBo.

Where: AER, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai

When: Every Sunday, 12:30 pm to 4 pm

Reservation: +91 8976803858

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore

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Experience Easter in style with a luxurious staycation at The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore. Enjoy a gourmet brunch and exhilarating egg hunt, followed by a sundowner at BANG rooftop bar with panoramic city views. Delight in Easter surprises at Ganache, the hotel's gourmet retail promenade. Kids can join in the fun with masterclasses and interactive sessions, making it a memorable family affair.

Where: The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore

When: 31st March, 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm

Reservation: +91 80-49148000

Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru

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Join in the egg-citing Easter celebration at CUR8, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru. Indulge in a sumptuous brunch featuring freshly baked goods, succulent roasts, and delicate pastries. Don't miss the chocolate Easter eggs with delightful surprises inside. With live music and kids' entertainment, it's a perfect family day out.

Where: CUR8, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru

When: 31st March, 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm

Reservation: +91 7619146004 or +91 9606487956

JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa

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Treat yourself to sweet surprises this Easter at Truffle & Co. Indulge in handcrafted egg-shaped desserts and celebrate the season with your loved ones. Don't miss the meticulously crafted Easter egg collection for a touch of sweetness to your festivities.

Where: Truffle & Co., JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa

When: Till 31st March 2024, 11:00 am to 9:00 pm

Contact: +91 87929 29417

The OZEN Collection

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Enjoy an unforgettable family experience in the Maldives with 'Kids Stay Free' at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO and OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI. Revel in luxurious accommodations and indulge in gourmet dining, snorkeling adventures, and exciting excursions against the stunning backdrop of the Maldives.

Reservation: reservations@ozenreserve-bolifushi.com | reservations@ozen-maadhoo.com

VARU By Atmosphere

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Immerse yourself in the charm of VARU by Atmosphere with the VARU PLAN for Long Weekend Getaways. Enjoy luxurious overwater villas, rejuvenating spa treatments, and unique culinary experiences. With a range of activities and dining options, it's the perfect escape for a long weekend.

Reservation: reservations@varu-atmosphere.com

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa

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Create lasting memories with a summer getaway package at Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa. Enjoy buffet breakfast, complimentary massages at Quan Spa, and relaxing poolside moments. Kids can enjoy customized amenities and hobby classes, making it a perfect family retreat.

Reservation: +91- 299 2266688 / + 91 299 2266723

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

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Experience wellness at its best with AyurMa at Four Seasons Maldives. Indulge in personalized therapeutic treatments combining ancient wisdom and modern expertise. From sensory explorations to moon-themed yoga, rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives.

These Easter escapes promise unforgettable experiences and cherished memories for you and your loved ones. Book your getaway now and make this Easter truly egg-ceptional!


9 Enchanting Restaurants & Hotels to Visit This Christmas

9 Enchanting Restaurants & Hotels to Visit This Christmas

By Hariharan U

Published on November 29, 2025

This season comes with its own charm, and if you’re looking for places that truly feel festive, here’s a handpicked list of nine restaurants, cafés, and hotels that have gone all out to make Christmas warm, joyful, and experience-driven.

1. Late Checkout*
Late Checkout* in Lower Parel takes on a beautiful holiday mood with soft lights, rich festive colours, and a cosy vibe that instantly feels welcoming. Set inside a restored textile warehouse, the space blends industrial-chic interiors with snug corners and a lively cocktail room. Whether it's a quiet festive date or a fun group night out, the easygoing atmosphere encourages guests to linger, sip winter cocktails, and enjoy the season comfortably. With its design-led aesthetic and warm Christmas spirit, it makes for a perfect holiday hangout.

2. JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar brings the festive season alive with elegant décor, warm lighting, and a cheerful Christmas atmosphere. JW Café rolls out indulgent festive brunches, while AUTM JW Lounge serves winter-inspired cocktails that match the mood of the season. The hotel’s hospitality, seasonal menus, and comforting ambience come together to create a setting that feels refined yet homely, making it one of the most charming Christmas destinations in the city.

3. Della Resorts & Adventure
Della Resorts & Adventure introduces its Christmas Festive Package for 2025, designed for a relaxed, feel-good holiday. The two-night stay begins at ₹34,000 and focuses on small, thoughtful experiences—slow mornings, comforting breakfasts, and an Adventure Day Pass for playful fun. Guests also get access to The Vegas Noelat, the resort’s annual Christmas production, and festive drinks at Café 24. A hearty Christmas Brunch, a traditional pudding takeaway, and kid-friendly highlights like Santa Meet-and-Greet and gingerbread decorating add warmth to the holiday. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a quiet but festive break away from the city rush.

4. Sofitel Mumbai BKC
Sofitel Mumbai BKC takes on a glowing, cosy holiday look with festive décor and cheerful accents. Guests can pick from a variety of Christmas dining experiences—brunch at Pondichery Cafe, Indian festive dinners at Jyran, or traditional thalis at Tuskers. Each menu is crafted with seasonal flavours that bring out the essence of the holidays. Add to that relaxing spa sessions and Sofitel’s signature hospitality, and you get an experience that feels warm, indulgent, and perfectly festive.

5. Harajuku Tokyo Cafe & Bakehouse
Harajuku Tokyo Café turns into a colourful Christmas wonderland with twinkling lights and bright installations that match its playful Japanese-inspired look. The Bakehouse showcases desserts that are almost too pretty to touch, and their exclusive Christmas cocktail menu adds to the holiday excitement. It’s the ideal spot for those who love aesthetic corners, festive photos, and sweet, comforting treats.

6. Amelia BKC
Amelia BKC brings a bold holiday vibe with its dramatic interiors—deep reds, black accents, unique lighting, and statement décor. With warm Christmas lights and luxe festive touches blending seamlessly into the space, it becomes a striking backdrop for dinners, celebrations, and stylish December nights. If you're looking for a place that feels festive yet modern, Amelia stands out beautifully.

7. Torii
At Torii in Khar, festive elegance takes centre stage. The restaurant’s rich textures, sculptural elements, and warm lighting get an added Christmas glow, making it perfect for intimate dinners or quiet festive gatherings. The décor remains refined and tasteful, giving the place a soft, holiday-ready charm throughout the month.

8. Sthamba
Sthamba Brewery in Versova turns up the Christmas energy with bright decorations, playful lighting, and a buzzing ambience. Known for its upbeat crowd and industrial-cool interiors, the brewery adds a festive twist with a special Christmas menu and lively music. It’s a great pick for year-end outings, cheerful nights with friends, and celebrations that are full of warmth and fun.

9. Moussestruck
Moussestruck embraces the season with cosy décor, a warm festive glow, and a delightful spread of strawberry specials and winter desserts. The space is aesthetic and inviting, perfect for anyone who enjoys sweet treats and holiday-themed cafés. Whether you’re visiting for the desserts or the festive vibe, Moussestruck makes for a lovely Christmas outing.


SOTC Travel Opens First Store in Anand, Expands Footprint in Gujarat

SOTC Travel Opens First Store in Anand, Expands Footprint in Gujarat

By Hariharan U

Published on November 29, 2025

SOTC Travel, a leading omnichannel Travel and Tourism Company, has opened its first franchise outlet in Anand, Gujarat, expanding its retail presence to five locations across the State. Anand has emerged as an important travel source market with strong interest in world-class holidays, prompting SOTC to strengthen its footprint in the region.

Known for its growing economy, prominent educational institutions, and rising urban affluence, Anand offers strong potential for travel-related businesses. The new outlet is designed to serve both leisure and business travellers with a wide portfolio of offerings, including domestic and international group tours, personalised holidays, cruises, and value-added services like travel insurance, making holiday planning simpler and more convenient.

Gujarat & Anand Travel Preferences

  • Top domestic and subcontinent destinations: Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andaman, Bhutan, Sri Lanka

  • Top international destinations: Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Bali, Japan, South Africa, Egypt

  • Emerging interests: luxury cruises, Northern Lights experiences, self-drive holidays, island stays (Maldives, Mauritius), and adventure trips to Ladakh and the North-East

  • Top customer groups: multi-generational families, honeymooners, working professionals, millennials, and Gen Z

  • Average holiday duration: 4–6 days for domestic or short-haul, 10–12 days for long-haul trips

Store Contact Details

SOTC Holiday World Outlet
Narayan Empire, No. 103–104, Beside Panchal Hall,
Anand–Vidyanagar Road, Anand, Gujarat 38800

Speaking about the launch, Rakesh Bawa, Senior Vice President & Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel Limited, said, Opening our first store in Anand is a strategic step in strengthening SOTC’s presence in Gujarat. Anand’s growing economy, strong educational base and rising affluence make it an important hub for travel demand. By expanding here, we are addressing the evolving needs of customers who want convenient, world-class holiday solutions. Gujarat is a key growth market for us, and Anand will play a significant role in driving our future expansion in the region. My team and I look forward to welcoming our customers at this new location and delighting them with exceptional travel offerings.”

About SOTC TRAVEL

SOTC Travel Limited, a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings through Thomas Cook (India) Limited, is a leading omnichannel travel company operating across leisure, incentive and business travel. Established in 1949, SOTC has built a legacy of more than 75 years and has served millions of travellers across India and the world.

The brand has won multiple industry accolades, including the PATA Gold Awards 2025, MaxiiiMICE Awards 2025, SATTE Awards 2025, and recognitions at World Travel Awards 2024, E4M Maverick Awards 2024, and ET Travel & Tourism Awards.

For more information, visit the official website.


Etihad and Vietnam Airlines Announce New Codeshare and Loyalty Partnership

Etihad and Vietnam Airlines Announce New Codeshare and Loyalty Partnership

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 23, 2025

Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines have taken their partnership forward with the launch of a new codeshare agreement. This move builds on Etihad’s recently introduced Abu Dhabi–Hanoi service, creating smoother travel options between the UAE and Vietnam.

With this partnership, Etihad guests can now book onward journeys to major domestic destinations in Vietnam as well as popular cities across Asia, all on a single ticket. Travellers also benefit from one check-in and automatic baggage transfer, making Abu Dhabi an easy connection point to the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.

Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways, said: "This partnership with Vietnam Airlines delivers significant value to our guests by unlocking access to some of Asia's most dynamic and popular destinations. Our new Abu Dhabi-Hanoi service has been warmly received, and this codeshare agreement transforms it into a gateway to Vietnam's most exciting cities. Combined with our frequent flyer partnership, which enables loyalty members of both airlines to earn and redeem miles across our combined global networks, this collaboration underscores our commitment to providing our guests with greater flexibility, broader reach, and superior travel experiences."

From Vietnam Airlines’ perspective, this collaboration builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier. Nguyen Quang Trung, Director of Corporate Planning and Development, Vietnam Airlines, said: “Vietnam Airlines is pleased to advance our partnership with Etihad Airways through this new codeshare agreement, following the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2024. The collaboration offers seamless access to Etihad’s network across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, while allowing more travellers to experience Vietnam Airlines’ signature warmth and hospitality. Together with our expanded frequent-flyer partnership, this agreement enhances convenience, broadens destination choices, and strengthens tourism and economic ties between Vietnam and the UAE.”

The rollout of the codeshare will take place in phases. As it expands, passengers of Vietnam Airlines will gain access to six destinations beyond Abu Dhabi, Athens, Addis Ababa, Bahrain, Muscat, Cairo, and Istanbul, opening up a wider network across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa through Etihad’s strong connectivity.

Etihad and Vietnam Airlines already have a frequent flyer partnership in place. Launched in July 2025, it allows Etihad Guest and Lotus Miles members to earn and redeem miles across both airlines’ networks. This loyalty integration adds more value to the newly announced codeshare, giving travellers broader options and smoother travel experiences.

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