Lyfe Hotels has expanded its dining portfolio in Bhubaneswar with the launch of HI-Lyfe, a rooftop restaurant and bar that blends scenic views, global flavours, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Marking the brand’s third dining destination in the city, the new space is designed for easy evenings that move from calm sunsets to energetic nights.

Set against wide views of the city skyline, HI-Lyfe introduces one of Bhubaneswar’s early Mediterranean-inspired dining experiences. The menu brings together flavours from Italy, Morocco, Turkey, Lebanon, and Spain, focusing on grilled dishes, fresh ingredients, and shareable plates that encourage a social dining style.

The food spread features a mix of well-loved Mediterranean dishes such as charred harissa prawns, Turkish lamb koftas, Lebanese mezze platters, wood-fired flatbreads, and Spanish-style patatas bravas. Alongside these are lighter small plates that add variety and keep the experience interactive at the table.

The bar menu is equally engaging, with cocktails inspired by Mediterranean regions and cultures. Signature drinks include Medina Flame, a blend of pomegranate, cinnamon and whiskey; Zagora Orchard with apricot and dark rum; and Nomad’s Trail, a spiced bourbon-forward mix. For lighter options, Riad Reverie combines floral notes of rose and lavender, while Aegean Breeze offers a refreshing citrus touch suited for early evenings.

The space is designed to shift smoothly from relaxed to lively, with ambient lighting, curated music, and an open-air layout that creates both comfort and energy. It works well for casual catch-ups as well as larger social gatherings, adapting to different moods through the evening.

Speaking about the launch, Sonal Sahoo, Co-founder, Lyfe Hotels, said, “HI-Lyfe comes at a time when dining is becoming more thoughtful, with a growing curiosity for global flavours and a stronger focus on shared experiences. We wanted to create a space that feels vibrant yet easy where the food, the mood, and the setting come together naturally. From slow sunsets to more energetic evenings, HI-Lyfe is designed to never feel static.”

HI-Lyfe opens in April 2026, bringing together bold flavours, crafted drinks, and a welcoming setting, positioning itself as a new go-to spot in Bhubaneswar for dining and social experiences.

Planet Hotels & Resorts is steadily strengthening its presence across India, with a clear focus on lifestyle-driven hospitality and premium travel experiences. Based out of Mumbai, the brand is building a strategically curated pipeline aimed at high-potential leisure, urban, and spiritual destinations.

Under the leadership of Anand Chatterjee, who has led the hospitality vertical for over a decade, the company is positioning itself as a key player in India’s evolving premium hospitality space.

The group’s journey began with the launch of Planet Hollywood Beach Resort in Goa in 2013, which set the tone for its design-forward and experience-led approach. Since then, the portfolio has expanded across destinations such as Thane, Powai, and Manali.

Flagship urban properties like Planet Hollywood Thane City and The Beatle Hotel reflect the brand’s commitment to design-led stays and immersive guest experiences. Expanding its boutique footprint, the group also marked its entry into the hills with a Manali property under The Beatle brand in 2025, catering to travellers seeking elevated mountain retreats.

In line with its focus on the elite segment, the brand recently introduced Kings Mansion in North Goa. Designed as an ultra-premium destination, the property aims to deliver privacy, bespoke services, and a refined hospitality experience tailored to discerning travellers.

Looking ahead, Planet Hotels & Resorts has outlined an ambitious roadmap with upcoming projects planned across New Delhi, Tirupati, Udaipur, and Hyderabad, while also evaluating additional markets. The expansion strategy is focused on tapping into India’s most sought-after travel destinations, spanning leisure, spiritual, and urban segments.

Speaking on the growth trajectory, Anand Chatterjee highlighted that the brand’s expansion is driven by a deep understanding of emerging lifestyle destinations and evolving consumer expectations. He emphasised that the focus remains on creating design-forward environments, intuitive service, and immersive experiences that go beyond traditional hospitality.

With a growing portfolio that blends aesthetics, personalisation, and experience-led offerings, Planet Hotels & Resorts is positioning itself to play a significant role in shaping India’s next phase of premium hospitality growth.

In a significant recognition for luxury wellness hospitality, Banyan Tree Samui has been named the “Best Spa Resort – Thailand” at the Global Spa Awards 2026, presented by The Luxury Spa Edit.

The award reflects a combination of expert panel evaluations, insights from global travel journalists and sustainability specialists, and over 85,000 public votes, reinforcing the resort’s strong positioning in the global wellness space.

At the heart of this recognition is the resort’s integrated approach to holistic wellbeing. The spa experience at Banyan Tree Samui goes beyond traditional treatments, offering a thoughtfully curated journey rooted in its “8 Pillars of Wellbeing” philosophy, focusing on rest, nourishment, mindfulness, movement, and personal growth.

A standout feature is its signature hydrotherapy facility, The Rainforest, which takes guests through a multi-sensory circuit of water jets, saunas, steam rooms, ice fountains, and vitality pools. This immersive experience has become a defining element of the resort’s wellness offering.

Speaking on the achievement, Naphasawan Badklang, Spa & Gallery Manager, credited the team’s rigorous training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy and their commitment to delivering personalised guest experiences. Each treatment begins with a detailed consultation, followed by customised herbal oils and signature rituals that include sound healing, breathwork, and traditional techniques.

The award also coincides with the rollout of Banyan Tree Spa 2.0, an evolved concept that blends ancient Asian healing practices with modern wellness techniques. From personalised therapies to curated closing rituals featuring herbal foot cleansing and tea ceremonies, the experience is designed to create a deeper sense of relaxation and renewal.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Koh Samui’s Lamai Bay, the resort’s 88 private pool villas further enhance the sense of seclusion and calm. Complemented by curated dining experiences, wellness programmes, and nature-integrated design, the property continues to offer a sanctuary for travellers seeking both luxury and restoration.

With this recognition, Banyan Tree Samui strengthens its reputation as one of Asia’s leading wellness destinations, setting new benchmarks for immersive and experience-driven hospitality.