Escape the Mumbai Hustle: Relax at Alibaug's New Starbucks!

Escape the Mumbai Hustle: Relax at Alibaug's New Starbucks!

By Author

Published on October 18, 2023

Tata Starbucks has anchored its first-ever island store in Alibaug, a picturesque seaside destination that’s fast becoming a second-home hotspot for Mumbaikars. The store isn’t just another pin on the Starbucks map; it’s a 2,500 sq. ft. haven where the aroma of high-quality Arabica coffee blends seamlessly with the tranquil sea breezes of the Arabian Sea.

Now, if you’re wondering why Alibaug, let’s spill the beans. The coastal town has been basking in rapid infrastructure and economic growth. It’s not just the serene beaches and tranquil environs that are drawing folks in, but also the burgeoning demand for premium food and beverage experiences. Nestled at the M2M Ferry Terminal, the store isn’t just a place to grab your favourite coffee; it’s an experience, a ‘Third Place’ where the distinct spirit of Alibaug and globally celebrated Starbucks coffee converge.

Michael Conway, the Group President for Starbucks International Channel Development, and Sushant Dash, CEO of Tata Starbucks, are steering the ship with an eye on innovation and deeper connections. Every cup of coffee, from the South Indian Filter Coffee to the Signature Milkshakes, is a nod to the diverse and vibrant coffee culture in India. It’s not just about sipping coffee; it’s about savoring moments of human connection, underscored by the welcoming embrace of green apron partners.

The store, adorned with nautical artworks and striking depictions of the legendary Moby Dick, is a sanctuary where each sip of coffee is a journey through the rich tapestry of maritime mythology. Emmy Kan, President of Starbucks Asia Pacific, emphasizes the brand’s dedication to catering to the evolving tastes of customers. It’s more than a store; it’s a canvas where global and local flavors paint a masterpiece of sensory delight.

In a world that’s ever-spinning, the Starbucks Island store in Alibaug is a pause, a serene space where every visitor is more than a customer. They’re a cherished guest, a part of a narrative that’s woven with threads of unparalleled coffee experiences and human connection. As Tata Starbucks continues to brew innovation in diverse store formats across India, the Alibaug island store stands as a testament to a brand that’s as diverse as the country’s rich cultural

tapestry. Every cup, every smile, and every connection is a story, and at the Alibaug Island store, these stories find a picturesque haven. A visit here isn’t just a coffee run; it’s a soulful sojourn where every sip is a serenade to the senses. Welcome aboard!


Emirates Launches 'Emirates First' Check-in for First Class Flyers at DXB

Emirates Launches 'Emirates First' Check-in for First Class Flyers at DXB

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 21, 2025

Emirates has unveiled 'Emirates First', a new premium check-in zone at Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport, offering a private and elevated experience exclusively for its First Class travellers and Skywards Platinum members.

Just steps from the dedicated Emirates entrance, the new facility is designed to mirror the airline’s First Class luxury—with interiors featuring marble finishes, gold and bronze accents, and plush seating areas. The space is intentionally free of digital signage to maintain a calm, lounge-like atmosphere. Instead, the check-in process is handled via iPads or at elegantly crafted counters, providing a personalised, tech-enhanced experience.

The zone also includes family-friendly seating, allowing one member to complete formalities while others relax. Luggage is seamlessly routed through dedicated First Class belts for smoother transfers.

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“Emirates First reflects our continued investment in luxury travel,” said Adel al Redha, Deputy President & COO, Emirates. “It offers privacy, efficiency, and comfort at every step of the journey.”

Post check-in, passengers can proceed directly to the First Class lounges for à la carte dining, spa treatments, shopping concierge services, and more.

This initiative is part of Emirates’ broader First Class upgrades, which include Robert Welch caviar bowls, curated wine pairings, and a more refined onboard service. With over 26,800 First Class seats available weekly, Emirates continues to set the standard for top-tier travel experiences.


EU Proposes Tripling Digital Travel Permit Fee to 20 Euros

EU Proposes Tripling Digital Travel Permit Fee to 20 Euros

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 21, 2025

Foreign travellers heading to Europe may soon have to pay nearly three times more for the region’s new digital travel permit. The European Union has proposed increasing the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) fee to 20 euros (approx. USD 23), a steep rise from the originally planned 7 euros.

This change, unveiled by the European Commission, comes as the EU aims to adjust for inflation, operational demands, and to better align the permit cost with global equivalents. For instance, the U.S. charges USD 21 for its ESTA, while the UK’s ETA costs 16 pounds (around USD 21).

Expected to roll out in the last quarter of 2026, ETIAS will be mandatory for travellers from visa-exempt countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, entering any of the 27 EU member states (excluding Ireland) as well as Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. The permit will be valid for three years.

While travellers aged under 18 or over 70 will be exempt from paying the fee, others will need to apply online before their trip. The system is intended to enhance border safety by identifying security risks, irregular migration, and other concerns in advance, making travel both safer and smoother for eligible visitors.

The European Parliament and member states now have two months to review this fee adjustment. Once approved, it will go into effect with the launch of the ETIAS system, which has already seen multiple delays, largely due to its link with a yet-to-be-implemented automated border control system.

This proposal comes amid the EU’s broader financial plan, including a two-trillion-euro long-term budget (2028–2034), which aims to fund priorities like defence and agriculture. Brussels hopes to raise funds through new revenue tools such as a carbon border tax and an e-waste levy, targeting 58 billion euros annually.

As the EU moves to strengthen both financial sustainability and border security, the updated ETIAS fee stands as a key piece of its evolving travel and economic framework.


Yen Dang Joins Alma Resort Cam Ranh as Director of Sales and Marketing

Yen Dang Joins Alma Resort Cam Ranh as Director of Sales and Marketing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 19, 2025

Alma Resort Cam Ranh has appointed Yen Dang as its new Director of Sales and Marketing (DOSM). With over two decades of experience, Yen is known for her dynamic leadership and creative sales strategies in Vietnam’s hospitality sector.

She steps into the new role at Alma, an award-winning, 30-hectare beachfront resort on Vietnam's Cam Ranh peninsula, after serving as DOSM at Mercure Danang French Village Bana Hills. Her previous roles include DOSM at Movenpick Resort Cam Ranh, cluster director of sales at Mercure Vung Tau and ibis Styles Vung Tau, and DOSM during the pre-opening phase of Melia Cam Ranh Bay. She also held the position of director of sales (wholesale) at Novotel Phu Quoc Resort.

Yen began her career in 2005 as a sales secretary at MGallery La Veranda Resort and Spa in Phu Quoc Island and climbed the ladder to become assistant sales manager. She later held key roles at Novotel Halong Bay, Novotel Saigon Centre, and Pullman Danang Beach Resort.

A graduate in hospitality and tourism management from Ho Chi Minh City’s Van Lang University, Yen brings a strong background in sales leadership, market understanding, and team development.

In her new role at Alma, she will lead sales and marketing strategies across the resort’s key segments and report directly to Frederic Savoye, Alma’s chief commercial officer.

“Yen is a dynamic and creative professional with a wealth of experience with many leading international hotels from Vietnam's south to north,” said Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler. “Her savvy in leading teams, drawing out each member's strengths, to not only hit but exceed budget places her in excellent stead with our Alma family.”

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