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By Author
Published on November 8, 2023
The festival of lights is upon us, and this year's Diwali is set to sparkle with more than just firecrackers. With a calendar that blesses us with a long weekend, why not swap the usual festivities at home for a burst of new experiences? Let's jet set to some of India's most iconic cities, where Diwali isn't just a festival, it's a lifetime memory waiting to happen.
Varanasi: A Divine Spectacle on the Ganges
First up, Varanasi – the spiritual heart of India, where the Ganges isn’t just a river but the canvas for the grandest aarti you'll ever witness. Diwali here is a celestial event, an endless cascade of lights and colors that makes the city feel like a galaxy on earth. As the ghats light up with thousands of diyas, the echoes of chants and bells create a soundtrack that's more soul-stirring than any orchestra.
Jaipur: Royal Splendor Amidst Pink Walls
Next, let's take our Diwali celebration royal at Jaipur, the Pink City that turns into a golden mirage during the festivities. Here, palaces aren’t just historic landmarks; they’re timeless sentinels watching over a city draped in vibrant hues and twinkling lights. The markets bustle with activity, as locals and visitors alike seek treasures in the form of traditional wear and artisanal crafts.
Ayodhya: An Epic Homecoming Celebration
In Ayodhya, the essence of Diwali goes back to its mythological roots – a homecoming and a victory of good over evil. The city isn’t just lit; it reenacts history, inviting everyone to be a part of a celebration that has been ongoing for millennia. Here, the warmth of the people matches the warmth of the lights that adorn the city.
Goa: A Beachside Festivity with a Twist
Then there's Goa, which offers a Diwali with a twist. It's not just about the sandy shores; it's about cultural fusion where traditional lamps meet the serenity of the sea. Goa's version of the festival includes vibrant fairs, effigies of Narakasura being paraded through the streets, and, as night falls, a panorama of fireworks that reflect over the ocean.
Kolkata: The City of Joy and the Goddess of the Night
Our festive trail ends in Kolkata, the cultural capital that turns into a panorama of devotion and celebration during Diwali. Known for its grand Kali Puja, the city takes on an ethereal aura, offering a stark contrast to the usual Lakshmi Puja observed elsewhere. The city is alive with thematic pandals, sweets that are culinary masterpieces, and a collective spirit that could light up the darkest of nights.
Each city on this list offers a slice of Diwali that's unique, immersive, and utterly unforgettable. This isn't just about escaping the routine; it's about enriching it with stories you'll tell for years to come. So, light up your inner traveler and let this Diwali be a journey that celebrates not just the victory of light over darkness, but also the joy of exploration and the spirit of India in all its festive glory.
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on July 20, 2025
A powerful collaboration between Radisson Hotel Group, Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), and strategic partner The Job Plus, has helped launch careers in the hospitality industry for 308 underprivileged youth across India. Through focused training programs and industry partnerships, this initiative is changing lives—one placement at a time.
A standout success of the project is from Jammu & Kashmir, where 70 youth were trained by Arc Hospitality and Swale IT & Skills, and later placed in well-known hotel groups like Radisson, Park Inn, and The Svelte. Of these, 20 young individuals were awarded offer letters during a special ceremony held at Radisson Hotel, Srinagar, in the presence of Mr. K. B. Kachru, Chairman – South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group, and Mr. Rajan Bahadur, CEO of THSC.
This event wasn’t just a celebration of job placements, it was a showcase of how collaboration between corporates, training partners, and skill councils can create real impact. Organizations like the Hotel Association of India (HAI) also play an important role by supporting industry-focused skilling efforts alongside THSC.
The broader placement drive has opened doors at renowned hospitality names including Hilton, Conrad, The Oberoi, Lemon Tree, Holiday Inn, Sarovar Ahuja Residency, Amritara, Park Plaza, and Svelte. A notable aspect of the initiative is its strong commitment to gender inclusion, with 155 female (51%) and 153 male (49%) candidates placed across the country.
This program stands as a real example of CSR-driven skilling leading to meaningful employment. It offers young individuals, especially from underserved regions like Jammu & Kashmir, the opportunity to join India’s growing hospitality sector with pride and purpose.
By combining the strengths of corporate support, strategic execution, and quality training, this model proves that large-scale, high-impact employment initiatives are possible. It sets a promising path for similar programs to take shape across more parts of the country.
Published on July 19, 2025
Once seen as a quaint weekend escape, Alibaug is now transforming into a premier real estate destination, according to a recent report by SKYE Hospitality. Nestled on the outskirts of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), the coastal town’s charm and serenity are now being matched by a rising wave of experiential real estate developments, including gated villa communities, branded plots, and vacation homes.
The report outlines a sharp upward trend in property prices, noting that branded plots by top developers have reached an average of ₹6,700 per sq. ft. in 2025, compared to ₹3,300 per sq. ft. in 2021 — a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.3%. Non-branded land options are still available at lower rates ranging between ₹1,300 and ₹2,000 per sq. ft.
The luxury villa segment has experienced even steeper appreciation, growing at a CAGR of 27% between 2021 and 2025. Average villa prices have surged to ₹14,800 per sq. ft., reflecting growing demand for curated, high-end living. Leading developers including House of Abhinandan Lodha, Mahindra Lifespaces, Avas Wellness, Emaar, Equinox, and Axon Developers have either entered the Alibaug market or are preparing to launch projects soon.
“Alibaug is no more a quaint neighbourhood situated in the peripheries of the MMR. It is now in the midst of a property bull run,” said Mr. Ankit Kansal, MD, SKYE Hospitality. “With work-from-anywhere becoming the norm, Alibaug is an ideal destination for curated, premium living — from sea-facing bungalows to serviced villas and farmstays.”
The report also notes that Alibaug is now seeing demand for primary residences, with many residents from Mumbai, Pune, and surrounding regions considering a permanent move. Enhanced connectivity, including the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) and fast ferry services to Mandwa, has made Alibaug a practical alternative to urban neighbourhoods.
“The emergence of curated, high-quality residential formats further signals a maturing market,” added Ms. Taran Chhabra, Director, SKYE Hospitality. “This is no longer just about second homes — it’s about daily living in a refined and nature-rich environment.”
With price appreciation expected to accelerate up to 35% annually, Alibaug is well on its way to becoming one of India’s most aspirational property destinations.
Published on July 18, 2025
ELIVAAS, India’s leading luxury vacation rental brand, has partnered with Akasa Air to redefine the travel experience with seamless, pet-friendly holidays. This strategic alliance, which includes its sister brand Alaya Stays, will allow Akasa Air customers to enjoy exclusive discounts on over 100 ELIVAAS-managed luxury villas and fully serviced apartments across the country, all pet-inclusive.
The partnership brings together two customer-centric brands aiming to simplify travel for today’s modern Indian families, especially those with pets. With Akasa Air’s growing pet-friendly service, Pets on Akasa, and ELIVAAS’ thoughtful accommodations, travellers now have a smooth, end-to-end journey for every member of the family and their paws included.
“Through this collaboration, we’re not just offering a place to stay, we’re creating a comprehensive travel ecosystem,” said Ritwik Khare, Founder & CEO of ELIVAAS. “Akasa Air’s inclusive approach aligns beautifully with our philosophy. We want every guest, including their pets, to feel at home the moment their journey begins.”
The collaboration caters especially to India’s emerging DINKWAD (Double Income No Kids With A Dog) demographic, which is increasingly seeking premium, pet-inclusive getaways. The special offer is available to all Akasa Air customers via a unique coupon code and applies to bookings of two nights or more, across any of ELIVAAS or Alaya Stays’ destinations.
Whether it's a weekend escape or an extended retreat, ELIVAAS’ concierge team provides personalized service to ensure every detail, from pet amenities to family-friendly setups is taken care of. This partnership offers flexibility, warmth, and convenience, helping travellers skip the stress of planning while still enjoying a curated experience.
As India’s appetite for luxury and pet-friendly travel grows, this partnership between ELIVAAS and Akasa Air sets a new benchmark. With a shared commitment to thoughtful hospitality, they’re reshaping how India travels, one paw at a time.
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