Zostel, India’s largest community-led backpacker hostel brand, has announced its entry into the international market with the launch of Zostel Phuket, Thailand, its 100th property and first overseas destination. This milestone marks a defining moment in the brand’s journey from a homegrown travel movement to a global hospitality player.

Since its inception, Zostel has been synonymous with social, affordable, and experience-led travel for young explorers. Its expansion into Thailand not only celebrates its numerical achievement but also reflects the brand’s evolving philosophy, that travel is about connection, community, and shared experiences.

Located in the heart of Phuket, the new hostel captures Zostel’s signature design ethos of fostering creativity and belonging. With vibrant lounges, a courtyard café, and relaxed social zones, Zostel Phuket invites travellers to mingle, collaborate, and discover while embracing the island’s laid-back tropical energy.

Speaking on the launch, Aviral Gupta, CEO at Zo World, said, “Zostel Phuket is not just our 100th property, it’s our first footprint in a world without borders. This milestone reflects our vision of uniting people and cultures through travel. Over the next 12 months, we’re excited to take this movement deeper into Southeast Asia, with new Zostels lined up across Thailand, including Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Koh Phangan and further expansions planned in Bali, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka.”

Zostel’s global push comes as part of the Zo World ecosystem, which is scaling across multiple travel and lifestyle verticals. Alongside Zostel’s hostels, the company is expanding Zo Trips across Europe and Asia, developing Zo House San Francisco in the United States, and growing Zo Villas across key leisure destinations.

These initiatives collectively aim to create a borderless travel network, connecting people, places, and cultures through purpose and community. For Zostel, reaching 100 hostels is not merely a number but a symbolic transformation, from being India’s backpacker pioneer to becoming a global connector of cultures.

Family vacations became one of the biggest trends of 2025, with parents looking for trips that inspire kids, open up new experiences, and help everyone reconnect. This Children’s Day, celebrate the joy of discovery with these five adventures perfect for young minds and growing explorers.

Seychelles: Nature’s Playground

Seychelles is a paradise for kids who love nature and open spaces. One of the most memorable experiences is meeting the friendly Aldabra tortoises on Curieuse Island, a moment little ones will talk about for years. Families can also hop onto a semi-submarine and watch coral reefs, colourful fish, and underwater life from glass panels, all without getting wet.

The fun doesn’t end there. Kayak through calm lagoons, stroll through Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO site that looks straight out of a storybook or unwind with easy beach picnics at Anse Lazio. You can also take a ferry to La Digue and explore its bike-friendly paths, or end the day building sandcastles at Beau Vallon’s long, golden beach.

Pro Tip: Pre-book your SemiSub ride as slots fill fast, and carry reef-safe sunscreen.

Qatar: The Middle East’s Water Wonderland

For kids who can’t get enough of water activities, Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park is the ultimate destination. Located inside Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, it has more than 30 rides and slides, from twisting tube chutes to wave pools, surf simulators, and even cliff jumping for kids who meet the height requirement.

There’s plenty to enjoy after drying off too go-karting, laser tag, arcade games, and a lively Kids Club with movie nights, crafts, and face painting. Families can wrap up the day on the private beach, with kayaking, paddleboarding, and sandy fun for everyone.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for Kabayan Fiesta this Children’s Day to enjoy Filipino music, culture, and food.

Ras Al Khaimah: From Sky to the Sea to Desert

Ras Al Khaimah is perfect for pre-teens and teens who want both thrill and discovery. Start with a desert safari at Bassata Camp, or trek up to Camp 1770 for stunning mountain views and cosy campfire evenings under the stars. If your family loves adrenaline, take on the world’s longest zipline at Jebel Jais, open to adventurers aged 12 and above.

For relaxed moments, kids can enjoy the Starfish Adventure Kids Club, jump around at the Wibit floating water park, and end the day with Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island’s much-loved Chocolate Hour.

Pro Tip: Pre-book the zipline and pack warm clothes for camping nights.

Tokyo Skytree: A Towering Treat for Curious Minds

Tokyo Skytree offers a whole new view of the city, giving kids the thrill of spotting trains, rivers, and tiny cityscapes from 350 or 450 metres above ground. Children can also meet Sorakara-chan, the tower’s cheerful mascot.

Right next door is Tokyo Solamachi, a buzzing zone packed with family-friendly stops. Visit the Sumida Aquarium to watch penguins and glowing jellyfish, explore interactive touch tanks, or let kids go wild at Chikyū no Niwa  the indoor play area. Solamachi’s cute cafés, anime shops, and sweet stalls add even more charm to the day.

Pro Tip: Book your Skytree time slot early, especially during busy seasons. A “tower + aquarium + play zone” combo keeps the day fun and smooth.

Krabi: Magical Days in Thailand’s Tranquil South

Krabi feels straight out of a fairy tale, with turquoise water, majestic cliffs, and soft sandy shores that kids absolutely love. Families can kayak through hidden lagoons, snorkel with colourful fish, or go island hopping for picnics on sandbars that appear and disappear with the tide.

Back on shore, little ones can join Thai craft sessions, cooking workshops, nature walks, or treasure hunts at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Evenings are just as magical, thanks to fire shows, starlit barbecues, and the calming rhythm of the sea.

Pro Tip: Ask your experience ambassador to include the Thai monk blessing ceremony, a lovely way for families to connect with gratitude and spirituality.

As the festive spirit takes over, W Kuala Lumpur invites travellers to celebrate the magic of the season with ‘Made The List’, a curated collection of experiences designed to make every moment unforgettable. Perfectly located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur City Centre, the hotel offers postcard-perfect views of the Petronas Twin Towers, setting the stage for a year-end escape filled with indulgence and sophistication.

Crafted for the modern tastemaker, ‘Made The List’ goes beyond traditional getaways, blending luxury, culture, and creativity into every offering. From bold culinary journeys and inspired gifting to music-driven experiences and wellness indulgences, each detail reflects W’s signature blend of energy and elegance.

Guests can explore the Made The Guest List, which brings alive the festive vibe through a dynamic lineup of celebrations such as the lavish Sleigh The Eve Buffet and the indulgent Unwrapped Brunch. The Made The YEN List takes fine dining a step further, featuring Yum Cha at YEN, a curated weekend dim sum affair and XXO Indulgence, a private multi-course experience crafted by Chef Weng.

For those who seek rejuvenation, Made The Spa List at AWAY Spa and Made The Feel-Good List, offering a Hi-Tea edition and Café Pop-Up with Veuve Clicquot, promise a perfect balance of wellness and celebration. Meanwhile, Made The Gift List presents a handpicked range of festive treasures, ideal for thoughtful gifting or self-indulgence.

Speaking on the season’s offerings, Mr. Volker Burth, General Manager of W Kuala Lumpur, shared, “At W Kuala Lumpur, we design experiences that spark connection, celebration, and unforgettable moments. This festive season, we’re raising the bar with curated packages that blend bold luxury, cultural richness, and the electric energy W is known for. Inspired by the vibrant Indian spirit of togetherness and celebration, each experience is crafted to unite, delight, and immerse our guests in moments worth remembering.”

For nightlife enthusiasts, Made The It List brings high-energy music experiences and sound activations that define the city’s festive scene. Guests can also discover Made The Stay List, designed for those looking to celebrate in spectacular style. The Celebrate In Spectacular Style package includes a rejuvenating 60-minute treatment at AWAY Spa, cocktails and canapés at the Living Room, entry to signature festive celebrations, and access to the WET Deck Countdown Party. Each stay is complemented by an in-room turndown ritual featuring decadent desserts and W’s signature scent.

For those seeking a luxurious year-end reset, Sparkle In The Sky offers a 3-day, 2-night stay complete with daily breakfast for two, festive dining at FLOCK, access to the Festive Café at Living Room, and exclusive amenities that promise rejuvenation and renewal.

With Made The List, W Kuala Lumpur redefines the art of festive living, where every celebration feels extraordinary, every stay is boldly luxurious, and every guest leaves with memories that shine long after the season ends.

For reservations and enquiries, email reservations.wkualalumpur@whotels.com.