Capella Hotels and Resorts Named World's Best Hotel Brand Again

Capella Hotels and Resorts Named World's Best Hotel Brand Again

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 14, 2024

Capella Hotels and Resorts has once again been honored as the Best Hotel Brand by Travel + Leisure in their 2024 World's Best Awards. This marks the second consecutive year that Capella has received this prestigious recognition, cementing its reputation for delivering exceptional guest experiences and personalized service.

In addition to the overall brand recognition, specific Capella properties have also earned top accolades. Capella Singapore has been named the No. 1 Hotel in Singapore, and Capella Ubud in Bali has been awarded the No. 1 Resort in Indonesia. Other notable mentions include Capella Bangkok, ranked as the No. 2 Hotel in Bangkok, and Capella Sydney, listed as the No. 3 City Hotel in Australia and New Zealand.

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Building on this success, Capella Hotels and Resorts is set to expand its footprint with several new openings. In 2025, Capella will debut in Taipei, Kyoto, and at the Galaxy Macau. The brand will also make its entry into the Middle East with Capella Diriyah in Saudi Arabia, opening in 2026. Further expansions are planned for China, with new properties in Nanjing and Shenzhen expected in 2027.

Artisanal Sojourn: A Unique 21-Day Experience

To celebrate their recent accolades, Capella Hotels and Resorts has launched a special 21-day Artisanal Sojourn. This unique journey is designed to immerse guests in the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of each Capella destination. Priced at USD $300,000, the sojourn offers an unparalleled luxury experience across multiple locations.

The journey begins with a three-night stay at Capella Singapore, where guests can enjoy the charm of restored heritage architecture and participate in a batik workshop with Master Tumadi Patri. The itinerary also includes a stay at Capella Ubud in Bali, featuring a pottery crafting session and a sketching class with designer Bill Bensley.

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Next, guests will find tranquility along the Chao Phraya River at Capella Bangkok, with an exclusive dining experience at the one-Michelin-starred Cote and a bespoke outfit design session with craftsman Vvon Sugunnasil. At Capella Hanoi, guests will be treated to a private opera performance and receive a signed copy of "Magnificent 47" by Bill Bensley.

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The journey continues with personalized wellness experiences at Capella Shanghai, including sessions with Michelin-starred chefs and a live demonstration by Chef Pierre Gagnaire. At Capella Tufu Bay, guests can explore Tanka Village, learn about the Tanka people’s maritime culture, and participate in a seafood cooking class.

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The sojourn concludes in Sydney with a sail along the harbor guided by Aboriginal elder Aunty Margret Campbell, an alfresco lunch by Brasserie 1930’s culinary team, and a private seaplane charter offering stunning views of the city's landmarks.

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About Capella Hotels and Resorts

Capella Hotels and Resorts is renowned for its properties in locations such as Singapore, Sydney, Ubud, Bangkok, Hanoi, Shanghai, and Hainan. Future openings include destinations like Taipei, Kyoto, Riyadh, Nanjing, Shenzhen, and South Korea. The brand is dedicated to highlighting local heritage, culture, and community through thoughtful design and personalized service.

Capella Hotels and Resorts is a member of the DISCOVERY loyalty program, which includes 40 independent hotel brands across over 100 countries. The brand continues to innovate and provide unique guest experiences that reflect the essence of each destination.


Ras Al Khaimah Emerges as One of the Fastest-Growing Real Estate Markets in the Region

Ras Al Khaimah Emerges as One of the Fastest-Growing Real Estate Markets in the Region

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 21, 2025

Ras Al Khaimah is rapidly cementing its position as one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing real estate markets in the United Arab Emirates. Driven by the forward-looking vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the Emirate is undergoing a remarkable transformation anchored in sustainability, community well-being and smart urban planning.

In the last three years, property sales and prices in the Emirate have surged, propelled by major hospitality, residential and commercial developments. With the population expected to rise from 0.4 million to 0.65 million by 2030, demand for an estimated 45,000 additional homes is on the horizon. This growth has attracted both global developers such as Emaar, Aldar and Ellington and local leaders including Marjan, Al Hamra and RAK Properties.

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Al Marjan Island has emerged as a flagship destination in this transformation. Under the leadership of CEO Eng. Abdullah Al Abdooli, it is welcoming iconic luxury brands including Wynn, JW Marriott, Nobu, Missoni and The Address. Further expanding Ras Al Khaimah’s commercial ecosystem, Marjan is developing RAK Central, set to become one of the Northern Emirates’ largest business districts, with Grade-A offices and sustainable infrastructure.

Al Hamra, led by CEO Benoy Kurien, continues to shape community living with Al Hamra Village’s 4,000+ homes, golf course and vibrant community. The group is also spearheading projects such as Waldorf Astoria Residences, Falcon Island, Al Hamra Waterfront and Manar Mall, the Emirate’s most popular retail hub.

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RAK Properties, through its landmark Mina development, is redefining the Emirate’s shoreline. Already hosting world-class resorts like Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah and InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah, it is gearing up to welcome Nikki Beach, Staybridge Suites and a Four Seasons. Commenting on this momentum, Chairman Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Zaabi said, “We are creating a vibrant, sustainable environment that is attracting global investment while maintaining the unique culture and natural heritage of our Emirate.” CEO Sameh Muhtadi added, “We are witnessing unprecedented global interest and this momentum will only continue.”

Supporting this real estate boom is Ras Al Khaimah’s strong infrastructure: eight hospitals including RAK Hospital, a modern education ecosystem, and its ranking among the world’s safest places. Tourism further strengthens the Emirate’s appeal, with 1.28 million visitors in 2024 enjoying attractions like Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline and the UAE’s highest-altitude restaurant, 1484 by Puro.

At the heart of it all lies Ras Al Khaimah’s 2030 Vision, a people-first development strategy focused on sustainability, inclusivity and global competitiveness. With its rising skyline, thriving communities and investor-friendly ecosystem, the Emirate is emerging as a benchmark for urban growth, lifestyle innovation and long-term prosperity.


New Zealand Shifts All Student Visa Applications to Upgraded Online Platform

New Zealand Shifts All Student Visa Applications to Upgraded Online Platform

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 19, 2025

Applying for a student visa to New Zealand will now look different, with the country introducing a fully digital process. Starting today, all international student visa applications will be processed through Immigration New Zealand’s upgraded online platform, ADEPT. The move is aimed at reducing paperwork, expediting decisions, and making the process simpler and more efficient for applicants worldwide.

From August 18, applications for English Language Student Visa, Exchange Student Visa, Fee Paying Student Visa, Pathway Student Visa, New Zealand Government Scholarship Student Visa, and Foreign Government Supported Student Visa are automatically being directed to the new ADEPT form. Any applications submitted through the old system on or before August 17 will continue to be processed, while draft applications must be submitted by September 17. After this date, all draft applications will be deleted.

Immigration New Zealand confirmed that from September 18, paper applications will no longer be accepted for student visa categories, marking a complete shift to online processing. This change is part of a broader seven-year programme designed to transition all visa categories to a single digital platform. Visitor Visas, Accredited Employer Work Visas, and Permanent Resident Visas have already been on the ADEPT system since 2021.

In its official statement, Immigration New Zealand said, “Customers and staff are at the heart of the Our Future Services programme. We are aiming to deliver a simpler, faster, and more user-friendly visa application process to reduce waiting times, provide clear communication on application status, and increase self-service capabilities so everyone feels more informed and better supported.”

The immigration agency has also advised applicants to apply at least three months before their intended travel date, as this remains a peak period for student visa processing. Family-related visa products linked to student visas will also be shifted to the new system over the coming year as part of the phased rollout.

This digital transformation marks an important milestone for international students aspiring to study in New Zealand, providing a streamlined and modern approach to visa processing.


Red Dot Representations Partners with Unique Lanka Travels to Elevate Sri Lankan Tourism

Red Dot Representations Partners with Unique Lanka Travels to Elevate Sri Lankan Tourism

By Hariharan U

Published on August 19, 2025

India’s leading destination representation firm, Red Dot Representations, has joined hands with Unique Lanka Travels, a top travel solutions provider from Sri Lanka, to expand the island nation’s global reach and redefine the way travellers experience it.

The collaboration marks an important milestone in showcasing Sri Lanka’s beauty, culture, and diversity to a wider international audience. With Red Dot’s expertise in bespoke sales and marketing strategies, Unique Lanka Travels will gain the kind of exposure and two-way communication usually reserved for larger travel companies. This means travellers can look forward to extraordinary, customised experiences crafted with precision and care.

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Highlighting Sri Lanka’s appeal, Charith De Alwis, CEO of Unique Lanka Travels, shared,"Sri Lanka is a captivating paradise for high-end Indian travellers seeking luxury, adventure, and cultural richness. Offering pristine beaches, lush tea plantations, and vibrant heritage sites, Sri Lanka is perfect for indulgent stays at world-class resorts and thrilling outdoor adventures. At Unique Lanka Travels, our team is dedicated to customizing your experience and ensuring a seamless, pampered journey. We are excited to collaborate with Red.dot representation, a market expert, to grow together and bring exclusive Sri Lankan adventures to discerning travellers. Make Sri Lanka a must-visit destination on your bucket list!"

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Echoing the sentiment, Prabhakar Kamat, Business Head at Red Dot Representations, said,"We are excited to represent Unique Lanka Travels, as their focus on authenticity and quality brings values that align perfectly with ours. Our onus as a team will be to engage on a platform that represents Sri Lanka as a must-see destination through one-of-a-kind sales and marketing initiatives to today’s traveler."

With this partnership, both companies are set to enhance Sri Lanka’s presence in key markets, engage closely with trade partners, and set new benchmarks in experiential travel. The collaboration ultimately aims to enrich the journeys of global travellers, making Sri Lanka a must-visit destination for those seeking both luxury and authenticity

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