In a major humanitarian move, Tata Sons has announced the formation of a ₹500 crore public charitable trust to support the victims and affected individuals of the recent Air India AI-171 tragedy in Ahmedabad. Named The AI-171 Memorial and Welfare Trust, this initiative reflects the group's commitment to offering both immediate and long-term support to the families of those who lost their lives, those who sustained injuries, and others impacted by the tragic incident.

Registered in Mumbai, the Trust will provide ex-gratia assistance of ₹1 crore to the families of the deceased and cover the medical treatment for seriously injured survivors. Additionally, the Trust will support the rebuilding of the B.J. Medical College Hostel infrastructure, which suffered damage during the incident.

The initiative also acknowledges the tireless efforts of first responders, healthcare professionals, disaster relief workers, and government staff by including them in the welfare ambit. The Trust aims to help them cope with trauma and stress resulting from their crucial service in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Tata Sons and Tata Trusts will each contribute ₹250 crore, totalling ₹500 crore towards the Trust’s philanthropic initiatives. A five-member Board of Trustees will oversee the operations, with S. Padmanabhan, former Tata veteran, and Sidharth Sharma, General Counsel at Tata Sons, appointed as the initial trustees. More appointments will follow.

Once necessary registrations and formalities with tax authorities are completed, the Trust will commence its operations in full swing, ensuring a robust and compassionate response to one of India’s most tragic aviation incidents in recent years.

Remember Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara or even Dil Chahta Hai? There’s just something about travelling with your closest friends that hits differently. Whether it's long conversations that stretch into the night or silent moments shared over a sunrise, these trips remind us why we stay in each other’s lives despite the noise of everyday life. This Friendship Day, here’s your cue to finally plan that long-overdue trip with your tribe.

1. Nairobi & Maasai Mara, Kenya

Wild mornings, long drives, and campfire nights
Few experiences bond people like the stillness of a lion sighting or watching the sun rise from a hot-air balloon over the Mara. Kenya’s iconic safaris offer just that—and more. Travel in August to catch the Great Migration in full force, and don't miss Nairobi’s Africa Food Show if your gang loves culinary adventures. Add a surreal breakfast with giraffes at Giraffe Manor to your bucket list.
Plan it for: The Big Five, game drives, Maasai tribe stories, and starry skies
Stay at: A tented safari camp in the Mara

2. Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

Where adventure meets stunning evenings
This lesser-known Emirate brings together beaches, deserts, and mountains in one epic package. Zipline across Jebel Jais, hike to Camp 1770, or chill on Flamingo Beach. You can camp under the stars, cuddle camels, or explore ancient pearling villages—all in one weekend.
Plan it for: High-adrenaline mornings, lazy afternoons, and Arabian sunsets
Stay at: Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Longbeach Campground

3. Koh Samui, Thailand

Island days, spa nights, and full moon stories
For a quieter, soulful beach holiday with your gang, Koh Samui delivers. In August, the Gulf side is calm, the beaches are postcard-perfect, and the pace is just right. Opt for group spa experiences, island-hopping, or a quick trip to Koh Phangan for fire shows under the full moon.
Plan it for: Spa days, beach barbecues, and full-moon evenings
Stay at: Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui

4. Kalkudah, East Coast, Sri Lanka

Where sunrise surfing meets quiet nights by the water
Kalkudah is all about that slow island rhythm. Wake up to surf-ready waves, spend the afternoon exploring sandbars and lagoons, and wind down with grilled seafood and cool Lion beers. It’s still off the tourist radar, which makes it perfect for authentic moments.
Plan it for: Surfing, snorkelling, seafood nights, and slow travel
Stay at: Kalkudah Beach House by Teardrop Hotels

5. Mahé or La Digue, Seychelles

Creole picnics, bike rides, and barefoot luxury
Whether you’re into cycling between beaches or kayaking over coral reefs, Seychelles in August is idyllic. Choose Mahé for adventures or La Digue for unplugged bliss. Add reggae bars, Creole meals, and impromptu beach dances for full core-memory impact.
Plan it for: Clear skies, chilled vibes, and unforgettable ocean adventures
Stay at:

• Boutique: L’Escale Resort Marina & Spa

• Budget: La Digue Island Lodge or Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort

• Self-catering: Available across all 3 main islands

6. Tokyo, Japan

For friends who don’t need a plan, just a starting point
Start your day above Tokyo at the Skytree, then scatter across the city—matcha soft serves, secondhand vinyl in Shimokitazawa, ramen in Shinjuku, and neon-lit nights in Golden Gai. You’ll all find your way back with stories to trade over skewers.
Plan it for: Urban wandering, ramen runs, and unforgettable city views
Stay at: Trunk Hotel, Shibuya

7. Tel Aviv & The Dead Sea, Israel

A city that moves fast, but always has room for a long night out
Tel Aviv is where your tribe can enjoy beach days, rooftop nights, and street food with soul. Add in a road trip to the Dead Sea to float, laugh, and grab selfies covered in mineral-rich mud. It’s the mix of culture, connection, and celebration you didn’t know you needed.
Plan it for: Floating in the Dead Sea, rooftop bars, and people-watching at its finest
Stay at: A boutique hotel near Gordon Beach or Neve Tzedek

You don’t need a perfect itinerary to bring your friends together—just the intent to make it happen. Pick a place, book the trip, and trust the conversations, belly laughs, and those quiet shared moments to take care of the rest.

Conrad Hotels & Resorts, part of Hilton’s global luxury portfolio, has launched its innovative Conrad 1/3/5 program—a bespoke initiative designed for today’s discerning traveller seeking meaningful, immersive experiences. Drawing inspiration from Hilton founder Barron Hilton’s belief in purposeful exploration, the program offers guests curated itineraries that span one, three, or five hours, helping them connect with their destination’s essence—without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

The new 1/3/5 format meets the growing demand for experience-led luxury travel. According to Hilton’s 2025 Trends Report, nearly 70% of global travellers prefer staying active during trips, and over 75% prioritize hotels offering diverse local experiences. Whether guests have just one hour between meetings or a free afternoon to explore, Conrad 1/3/5 delivers seamless micro-journeys packed with cultural richness, local flavour, and thoughtful storytelling—crafted uniquely for each Conrad destination and accessible via the hotel concierge.

Dino Michael, Senior Vice President & Global Head of Hilton Luxury Brands, shared:

“At Conrad, we believe luxury is defined by how you experience a destination. Through Conrad 1/3/5, we’re empowering our guests to see the world from fresh perspectives—whether through food, art, nature, or local wisdom. It’s about depth, not duration.”

The program has rolled out globally, with Asia Pacific locations offering vibrant local experiences:

Conrad Pune

1 Hour – Visit to Aga Khan Palace
Explore this serene site tied to India’s freedom struggle, either solo or with a guide, and reflect amidst colonial architecture and lush gardens.

3 Hours – Spiritual and Market Trail
Visit sacred temples like Dagadusheth Halwai and Pataleshwar Cave, then walk through bustling markets at Tulshi Baug and Laxmi Road for a peek into Pune’s street culture.

5 Hours – Sinhagad Fort Trek & Spa
Trek up to the historic Maratha-era fort for sweeping views, followed by a 90-minute rejuvenating Signature Spa treatment back at the hotel.

Conrad Bengaluru

1 Hour – Sambar Masterclass
Learn to prepare Karnataka’s iconic dish with regional twists from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

3 Hours – Pottery & Honey Tasting with the Beeman of India
Make your own pottery and meet India’s renowned beekeeper Apoorva BV for a honey-themed high tea.

5 Hours – Old Bengaluru Heritage Walk
Wander through vintage bookstores, temple alleys, and flower markets. Wrap up with a curated keepsake of filter coffee and jasmine.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

1 Hour – Dine at Ithaa Undersea Restaurant or take a Jet Lagoon marine tour.

3 Hours – Manta Talk & Snorkel Adventure with a resident marine biologist.

5 Hours – Extended Reef Exploration with multiple snorkel sessions and oceanic storytelling aboard a luxury boat.

Conrad Tokyo

1 Hour – Omakase Coffee Experience with rare global beans, or
Sake Pairing by Yaegaki in a traditional tatami setting.

3 Hours – Ukiyo-e Art Masterclass with Japanese printmaking legends or
Onigiri Workshop at a 10-generation heritage deli.

5 Hours – Samurai Swordsmithing and Tokyo tea bar crawl that bridges tradition with modern mixology.

Conrad Bali

1 Hour – Sway Sleep Therapy in an aerial hammock, or
Crystal Chakra Healing session.

3 Hours – Full Moon Celebration with temple rituals and Melukat purification, or
Nawa Sanga Art Therapy for personal insight through colour and shape.

5 Hours – Foraging & Forest Bathing in the Bedugul rainforest, ending with a peaceful waterfall lunch, or
Scenic Cooking Journey after harvesting from regenerative Balinese farms.