You have Successfully logged In !
Already have an account? Login
By clicking Register you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Don't have an account?Register
Enter your E-mail address below, We will send the verification code
Please enter the code send to
Didn't receive the email?Click to resend
Your password has been successfully reset!.
Please login again to access your account.
An OTP has been sent to
Enter the 4-digit code
By Author
Published on September 2, 2024
Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand's leading hotel and property development companies, has entered into a strategic partnership with Generator and Freehand Hotels, an award-winning developer and operator of experiential hostels and boutique hotels in Europe and the USA. This collaboration aims to combine the strengths of both companies to drive sustainable international growth and explore new markets where they have yet to establish a presence.
Under this groundbreaking partnership, Generator and Freehand Hotels will leverage their extensive experience in developing lifestyle hybrid accommodation models in the affordable lifestyle segment across Europe and the USA. They will focus on introducing Dusit Hotels and Resorts in key European cities such as London, Paris, and Rome, as well as popular stateside destinations like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles.
On the other hand, Dusit Hotels and Resorts, with its established presence in Asia and the Middle East, will explore opportunities to bring Generator and Freehand's award-winning boutique hotel-hostel hybrid model to prime city destinations such as Bangkok, Manila, Kyoto, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, along with renowned island retreats like Phuket and Bali.
"This partnership is a win-win situation for both companies," said Mr. Siradej Donavanik, VP – Global Development, Dusit International. "It allows us to expand our development horizons without compromising our existing brand portfolios. We are thrilled to collaborate with Generator and Freehand and look forward to breaking new ground with many exciting new signings ahead."
Dusit Hotels and Resorts’ portfolio includes a diverse range of brands such as Dusit Thani (luxury), dusitD2 (lifestyle/midscale), Dusit Princess (midscale), Dusit Suites (upscale/long stay), ASAI Hotels (affordable lifestyle), and the recently introduced Devarana – Dusit Retreats (wellness luxury) and Dusit Collection (bespoke luxury). The partnership with Generator and Freehand will also explore development opportunities for all these brands.
Mr. Alastair Thomann, CEO of Generator and Freehand Hotels, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "This partnership marks an exciting new chapter in the growth trajectory of our companies. Dusit's unique blend of tradition and innovation aligns perfectly with our vision for delivering culturally rich experiences for inspired travelers worldwide."
Dusit’s portfolio currently spans 18 countries, comprising 57 hotels operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and 244 luxury villas under Elite Havens, the leading provider of luxury villa rentals in Asia. Additionally, more than 60 Dusit Hotels and Resorts are in the development pipeline globally.
Generator and Freehand oversee a total of 21 global properties across Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, the Netherlands, the UK, and North America. Their collaboration with Dusit represents a strategic move to introduce their innovative accommodation models to Asia and the Middle East, opening up new avenues for growth in these regions.
This strategic partnership is set to redefine the global hospitality landscape, combining the best of both brands to create unique and culturally immersive travel experiences for guests around the world.
About Dusit Hotels and Resorts
Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand's leading hotel and property development companies. With a heartfelt belief and commitment to introducing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, Dusit Hotels and Resorts offers guests a uniquely special stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group's portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of eight brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide.
About Freehand Hotels
Freehand is a standout collection of beloved hotels operated by the trailblazing hospitality brand Generator that combine innovative design, award-winning food and beverage, and community spirit. Each Freehand location – across the US's most vibrant cities New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Miami – takes its cues from its surrounding neighborhood, with spaces that are a microcosm of the best each city has to offer ensuring every experience at each Freehand property is completely one-of-a-kind. Acquired by London-based Queensgate Investments in 2019, Freehand and its award-winning renowned food and beverage concept, Broken Shaker, joins the trailblazing the globally revered, boutique Generator properties in offering affordable, design-centric accommodations – that include sophisticated yet comfortable private and shared rooms – alongside thoughtful communal spaces, and a lively, youth-driven social culture.
Zari Debuts Luxury Hospitality Brand with Launch of Bijapur ...
Zari has announced its entry into India's luxury hospitality...
Encalm Hospitality Expands Airport Experience with New Inter...
Encalm Hospitality has announced the launch of its new Inter...
Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse Promotes Three Leaders Acro...
Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse has strengthened its leader...
PP Ventures Launches Helen & Lorena's Place, India's First P...
Passionate People Ventures (PP Ventures) has expanded its ho...
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on July 17, 2026
The stage is set for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, with defending champions Argentina set to take on Spain on Sunday, July 19, in what promises to be one of the tournament's biggest encounters.
Argentina booked its place in the final after a thrilling 2-1 victory over England in the semi-final. Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez scored late to complete the comeback, while Lionel Messi played a key role by providing two assists. Spain, meanwhile, reached the summit clash after maintaining its impressive run throughout the tournament.
Ahead of the final, former England striker Robbie Fowler and Germany goalkeeping legend Oliver Kahn, speaking as ZEE5 experts, said Spain has been one of the standout teams at the World Cup. However, they also believe Argentina has the experience and quality to challenge the European champions if it can capitalise on the opportunities created.
With football fever building across the country, the Karnataka government has announced extended operating hours for hotels and restaurants in Bengaluru to allow fans to enjoy the late-night matches.
Following a representation from the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), the state government has permitted hotels and restaurants to remain open until 3:30 a.m. on July 14, July 15 and July 19, when key FIFA World Cup matches are scheduled to be played late at night in India due to time-zone differences.
Sharing the announcement, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said the decision was taken to ensure football enthusiasts can enjoy the matches without inconvenience.
The relaxation has been granted under the provisions of the Karnataka Police Act, allowing hotels and restaurants to continue serving guests until 3:30 a.m. on the notified dates.
Following the government's decision, Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh issued the necessary orders permitting late-night screenings of FIFA World Cup matches and extending the operating hours of hotels and restaurants.
The move is expected to benefit Bengaluru's hospitality sector, with restaurants, cafés and hotels preparing to welcome football fans for the much-awaited Argentina vs Spain final on Sunday.
Azerai Ke Ga Bay has appointed Praveen Subramanian as its new Spa Manager, reinforcing the luxury resort's focus on wellness and holistic guest experiences. The appointment marks another step in enhancing the resort's acclaimed yoga and spa programme at its peaceful bayside property in southern Vietnam.
Bringing extensive experience in yoga and holistic health, Praveen will oversee a range of wellness sessions including traditional yoga, elemental yoga, signature breathwork, ocean breath meditation, and specialised programmes focused on anxiety and stress relief. He will also lead sessions centred on the art of massage, offering guests personalised wellness experiences.
Commenting on his new role, Praveen Subramanian said:
"Azerai Ke Ga Bay offers the perfect setting to reconnect with nature and oneself. We bring together healthy habits, mindful living, and inner balance to create true harmony. By tailoring personalized wellness experiences, we inspire sustainable wellbeing, vitality, and joyful living every day."
The resort's outdoor yoga sessions are among its key wellness experiences, allowing guests to practise amidst lush natural surroundings with views of the sea and refreshing coastal breezes.
Spread across 4.5 hectares of landscaped gardens, Azerai Ke Ga Bay is surrounded by scenic attractions, with Hon Ba Island and its historic lighthouse to the east and expansive sand dunes to the west. Conveniently located around 2.5 hours from Ho Chi Minh City via a new highway, the resort was awarded a MICHELIN Key in 2025 and was recently recognised among Vietnam's top upcountry hotels by Travel + Leisure this year.
The resort's spa offers a broad selection of treatments, including deep-tissue and relaxing massages, stone therapy, body scrubs, wraps, facials, and hand and foot rituals. Many of these therapies are inspired by traditional Vietnamese healing practices that have been passed down through generations.
Azerai's sister property, Azerai La Residence in Hue, also continues to expand its wellness offerings. The heritage art deco hotel overlooking the Perfume River recently introduced a new Wellness Package featuring daily breakfast, Vietnamese afternoon tea, a 60-minute daily spa treatment for two, a signature bath ritual and complimentary late check-out.
Earlier this year, Azerai La Residence was named among the "500 Best Hotels" by Travel + Leisure and was also recognised as one of Vietnam's best upcountry hotels in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia-Pacific 2026.
Both Azerai Ke Ga Bay and Azerai La Residence are part of the hospitality portfolio of legendary hotelier Adrian Zecha.
By Hariharan U
Published on July 16, 2026
Italian luxury furniture brand Poltrona Frau has unveiled Infinitamente 2.0, a new sculptural dining table designed by Roberto Lazzeroni, marking a new chapter in the evolution of the Infinito family. The latest creation was presented during Milan Design Week 2026 and joins the brand’s permanent collection following the limited-edition Infinito table launched in 2021 and the Infinitamente table introduced in 2023.
Designed as an expression of timeless elegance and Italian craftsmanship, Infinitamente 2.0 expands the original concept into an extra-large dining table measuring over three metres in length and capable of seating up to twelve guests. The design continues Poltrona Frau’s philosophy of creating furniture pieces that transcend trends and become part of personal stories, memories, and everyday experiences.
At the centre of the design is a distinctive staggered double-oval marble top, inspired by the symbolism of infinity and the complementary balance of Yin and Yang. The sculptural form represents harmony, continuity, and connection, making the table a statement piece designed for contemporary spaces focused on gathering and shared experiences.
The table’s two helicoidal bases feature softly chamfered surfaces upholstered in Pelle Frau® ColorSphere® Impact Less leather, showcasing Poltrona Frau’s renowned craftsmanship. The leather application technique draws inspiration from luxury automotive interiors, reflecting the brand’s expertise in combining traditional artisan skills with advanced manufacturing processes.
Infinitamente 2.0 offers a wide range of marble options, including Bianco Carrara, Calacatta, Arabescato Venato, and Ombra di Caravaggio, available in polished, semi-polished, and naturally polished finishes. Each marble top is crafted from a single slab divided into two sections and reinforced with technical mesh to improve resistance against bending, breakage, and impact.
A stainless steel blade insert elegantly completes the connection between the two marble sections, adding both structural strength and visual refinement. The different surface treatments enhance the natural character of the stone while improving durability and resistance for everyday use.
The table base is constructed using MDF and birch plywood components, with internal beech pins and metal plates ensuring stability and strength. The leather-covered supports create a contrast between the natural richness of marble and the warmth of handcrafted upholstery.
Infinitamente 2.0 represents the continuation of Roberto Lazzeroni’s exploration of sculptural furniture design. The original Infinito table, presented in 2021 as a numbered limited edition, featured an exclusive Rosso Lepanto marble top sourced by Poltrona Frau and positioned as a collectible objet d’art. The 2023 Infinitamente edition further developed the concept with a white Versilia marble top and multiple size variations.
With the new Infinitamente 2.0, Poltrona Frau transforms the artistic vision into a permanent collection piece designed for luxury residences, hospitality environments, and sophisticated interiors worldwide.
The table debuted exclusively on April 14, 2026, at the Poltrona Frau flagship store on Via Manzoni 30 in Milan during Milano Design Week. It will subsequently become available through selected Poltrona Frau stores globally and the brand’s European e-commerce platforms.
Part of Haworth Lifestyle, Poltrona Frau continues to represent the intersection of Italian design heritage, craftsmanship, and contemporary luxury. Founded in 1912, the brand has built a global reputation for premium furnishings, leather craftsmanship, custom interiors, and collaborations with leading international designers.
Through Infinitamente 2.0, Poltrona Frau reinforces its commitment to creating enduring design pieces that celebrate material innovation, artistic expression, and the timeless value of handcrafted luxury.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!
Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.
By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Advertise With Us
We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.
A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.
Already have an account?Login
By clicking you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Subscribe for ₹2,000 and receive our monthly magazine for one year (12 months) from the coming month and save 2 months cost.