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By Author
Published on November 5, 2023
In an unprecedented achievement for Asian hospitality, Hong Kong has firmly positioned itself on the world luxury hotel map. The 2023 World’s 50 Best Hotels Awards, a benchmark of excellence in the global hospitality sector, has spotlighted Hong Kong with two of its most esteemed hotels clinching top spots. This distinction not only underlines the region’s rising prominence in high-end hospitality but also signals a shift in global travel preferences, recognizing the unique allure and service excellence that Asian destinations offer.
Hong Kong's Rosewood and The Upper House Among Top Global Hotels
Hong Kong celebrates a new milestone in global hospitality as two of its premier hotels, Rosewood Hong Kong and The Upper House, secure the second and fourth spots in the prestigious 2023 World's 50 Best Hotels Awards. This recognition not only cements Hong Kong's status as a top-tier destination but also showcases the region’s unparalleled hospitality offerings.
The Upper House: A Design Marvel Above Victoria Harbour
Nestled loftily above Admiralty's Pacific Place, The Upper House, designed by renowned Asian architect André Fu, stands as a beacon of creative and architectural excellence. Its brutalist exterior, conceptualised by British designer Thomas Heatherwick, and the richly-toned wooden lift inspired by Japan's torii gates, set a precedent for the hotel's design journey. Boasting over 400 pieces of meticulously selected and commissioned artwork, the hotel exudes a serene atmosphere, enhanced by a 40-metre metal installation by Hiroshiwata Sawada in its atrium.
The hotel's 117 rooms and studios, with their generous dimensions, muted tones, and stunning city views through floor-to-ceiling windows, offer a sanctuary of restorative modernity. Guests can indulge in the Mediterranean delights of Salisterra or enjoy refined cocktails at the bar. Starting at $650, the hotel's facilities include a swimming pool, fitness centre, and family-friendly options.
Rosewood Hong Kong: Best Hotel in Asia
A contemporary marvel, Rosewood Hong Kong, located in historic Kowloon, has quickly become an iconic part of the city's skyline. Designed by Tony Chi, the hotel's interior is a blend of modern style and subtle luxury, featuring art by Damien Hirst and Henry Moore. The 413 rooms, a harmonious blend of neutral tones, plush seating, polished wood, and opulent bathrooms, offer guests a luxurious and multi-faceted experience.
The hotel's 11 restaurants cater to diverse culinary preferences, from Holt's Café's unique take on Hong Kong's cha chaan tengs to the Italian Bluhouse and Indian Chaat. Additionally, the Darkside bar is a celebrated name on Asia's 50 Best Bars list. Rosewood's CEO Sonia Cheng's personal connection to the hotel's location adds a layer of sentimental value to this $2.5 billion redevelopment project.
Hong Kong: A Hub of World-Class Hospitality
These awards from The World's 50 Best Hotels Academy, with over 580 anonymous hotel industry leaders participating, affirm Hong Kong's unique standing in the world of luxury hospitality. For HKTB executive director Dane Cheng, this is a testament to Hong Kong’s commitment to quality and professional hospitality services, further solidifying its position as a premier tourism destination.
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on August 21, 2025
Ras Al Khaimah is rapidly cementing its position as one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing real estate markets in the United Arab Emirates. Driven by the forward-looking vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the Emirate is undergoing a remarkable transformation anchored in sustainability, community well-being and smart urban planning.
In the last three years, property sales and prices in the Emirate have surged, propelled by major hospitality, residential and commercial developments. With the population expected to rise from 0.4 million to 0.65 million by 2030, demand for an estimated 45,000 additional homes is on the horizon. This growth has attracted both global developers such as Emaar, Aldar and Ellington and local leaders including Marjan, Al Hamra and RAK Properties.
Al Marjan Island has emerged as a flagship destination in this transformation. Under the leadership of CEO Eng. Abdullah Al Abdooli, it is welcoming iconic luxury brands including Wynn, JW Marriott, Nobu, Missoni and The Address. Further expanding Ras Al Khaimah’s commercial ecosystem, Marjan is developing RAK Central, set to become one of the Northern Emirates’ largest business districts, with Grade-A offices and sustainable infrastructure.
Al Hamra, led by CEO Benoy Kurien, continues to shape community living with Al Hamra Village’s 4,000+ homes, golf course and vibrant community. The group is also spearheading projects such as Waldorf Astoria Residences, Falcon Island, Al Hamra Waterfront and Manar Mall, the Emirate’s most popular retail hub.
RAK Properties, through its landmark Mina development, is redefining the Emirate’s shoreline. Already hosting world-class resorts like Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah and InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah, it is gearing up to welcome Nikki Beach, Staybridge Suites and a Four Seasons. Commenting on this momentum, Chairman Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Zaabi said, “We are creating a vibrant, sustainable environment that is attracting global investment while maintaining the unique culture and natural heritage of our Emirate.” CEO Sameh Muhtadi added, “We are witnessing unprecedented global interest and this momentum will only continue.”
Supporting this real estate boom is Ras Al Khaimah’s strong infrastructure: eight hospitals including RAK Hospital, a modern education ecosystem, and its ranking among the world’s safest places. Tourism further strengthens the Emirate’s appeal, with 1.28 million visitors in 2024 enjoying attractions like Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline and the UAE’s highest-altitude restaurant, 1484 by Puro.
At the heart of it all lies Ras Al Khaimah’s 2030 Vision, a people-first development strategy focused on sustainability, inclusivity and global competitiveness. With its rising skyline, thriving communities and investor-friendly ecosystem, the Emirate is emerging as a benchmark for urban growth, lifestyle innovation and long-term prosperity.
Published on August 19, 2025
Applying for a student visa to New Zealand will now look different, with the country introducing a fully digital process. Starting today, all international student visa applications will be processed through Immigration New Zealand’s upgraded online platform, ADEPT. The move is aimed at reducing paperwork, expediting decisions, and making the process simpler and more efficient for applicants worldwide.
From August 18, applications for English Language Student Visa, Exchange Student Visa, Fee Paying Student Visa, Pathway Student Visa, New Zealand Government Scholarship Student Visa, and Foreign Government Supported Student Visa are automatically being directed to the new ADEPT form. Any applications submitted through the old system on or before August 17 will continue to be processed, while draft applications must be submitted by September 17. After this date, all draft applications will be deleted.
Immigration New Zealand confirmed that from September 18, paper applications will no longer be accepted for student visa categories, marking a complete shift to online processing. This change is part of a broader seven-year programme designed to transition all visa categories to a single digital platform. Visitor Visas, Accredited Employer Work Visas, and Permanent Resident Visas have already been on the ADEPT system since 2021.
In its official statement, Immigration New Zealand said, “Customers and staff are at the heart of the Our Future Services programme. We are aiming to deliver a simpler, faster, and more user-friendly visa application process to reduce waiting times, provide clear communication on application status, and increase self-service capabilities so everyone feels more informed and better supported.”
The immigration agency has also advised applicants to apply at least three months before their intended travel date, as this remains a peak period for student visa processing. Family-related visa products linked to student visas will also be shifted to the new system over the coming year as part of the phased rollout.
This digital transformation marks an important milestone for international students aspiring to study in New Zealand, providing a streamlined and modern approach to visa processing.
By Hariharan U
India’s leading destination representation firm, Red Dot Representations, has joined hands with Unique Lanka Travels, a top travel solutions provider from Sri Lanka, to expand the island nation’s global reach and redefine the way travellers experience it.
The collaboration marks an important milestone in showcasing Sri Lanka’s beauty, culture, and diversity to a wider international audience. With Red Dot’s expertise in bespoke sales and marketing strategies, Unique Lanka Travels will gain the kind of exposure and two-way communication usually reserved for larger travel companies. This means travellers can look forward to extraordinary, customised experiences crafted with precision and care.
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s appeal, Charith De Alwis, CEO of Unique Lanka Travels, shared,"Sri Lanka is a captivating paradise for high-end Indian travellers seeking luxury, adventure, and cultural richness. Offering pristine beaches, lush tea plantations, and vibrant heritage sites, Sri Lanka is perfect for indulgent stays at world-class resorts and thrilling outdoor adventures. At Unique Lanka Travels, our team is dedicated to customizing your experience and ensuring a seamless, pampered journey. We are excited to collaborate with Red.dot representation, a market expert, to grow together and bring exclusive Sri Lankan adventures to discerning travellers. Make Sri Lanka a must-visit destination on your bucket list!"
Echoing the sentiment, Prabhakar Kamat, Business Head at Red Dot Representations, said,"We are excited to represent Unique Lanka Travels, as their focus on authenticity and quality brings values that align perfectly with ours. Our onus as a team will be to engage on a platform that represents Sri Lanka as a must-see destination through one-of-a-kind sales and marketing initiatives to today’s traveler."
With this partnership, both companies are set to enhance Sri Lanka’s presence in key markets, engage closely with trade partners, and set new benchmarks in experiential travel. The collaboration ultimately aims to enrich the journeys of global travellers, making Sri Lanka a must-visit destination for those seeking both luxury and authenticity
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