Indian Branded Residences: A Lucrative Opportunity for International Business Growth

Indian Branded Residences: A Lucrative Opportunity for International Business Growth

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 4, 2024

The global branded residences market is expanding at a notable pace of 12% annually, with its footprint extending across the USA, Thailand, UAE, Portugal, Greece, the UK, Brazil, Vietnam, and beyond. This surge is driven by a resurgence in luxury travel, an increasing desire to own lifestyle assets, and the perception of real estate as a safe haven. Factors like relocation and children’s education are also contributing to this growth. From the Waldorf Astoria in New York to the Standard Residence in Phuket and the Mayfair Park residence in London, branded residences are gracing affluent neighborhoods worldwide. India, too, has the potential to become one of the epicenters of branded residences.

According to a recent white paper by SKYE Hospitality, India could become an attractive destination for branded residences. While India already boasts a sizable supply of 2,900 units—accounting for approximately 10% of the global market supply—there is ample room for this niche, yet rapidly growing, luxury segment to flourish.

India has witnessed a significant increase in the number of affluent households. These modern HNIs (High Net Worth Individuals) and UHNIs (Ultra High Net Worth Individuals) are seeking exclusive spaces, top-tier amenities, and curated services, driving the demand for branded residences. A few years ago, features like in-home dining services, concierge services, exclusive wine cellars and cigar lounges, and wellness spas within residential projects seemed unimaginable. Today, thanks to branded homes, these offerings are gradually becoming mainstream.

Prominent brands, both within and outside of hospitality, have already ventured into this segment. Notable names include Yoo, Trump, Versace, IHCL, Leela, Four Seasons, Atmosphere Core, Marriott, and Oberoi.

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"Despite significant growth in branded residences in recent years, what we have observed is just the tip of the iceberg. India has tremendous untapped potential to capitalize on. Average HNI Indians are spending generously on aspirational lifestyles, which will unravel a big market for branded residences. Interestingly, the trend will no longer be limited to big metros but will also percolate to tourist destinations and Tier-2 cities," said Mr. Ankit Kansal, MD of SKYE Hospitality.

In addition to strong demand driven by the rise in affluent households, India also offers a significant cost advantage. According to SKYE's study, average prices for branded residences in London, Miami, and New York are approximately ₹39.5 crores, ₹20.3 crores, and ₹60.2 crores, respectively. Average ticket sizes in other emerging cities such as Dubai (₹13.5 crores), Athens (₹17.9 crores), and Phuket (₹10.5 crores) are also high. In contrast, the average ticket size of branded homes in India is around ₹9 crores, with opportunities in the lower bracket as well (₹6-7 crores).

"Rich Indians are key growth drivers in international property markets such as Dubai, Singapore, London, and Athens. Now, with exclusive spaces and aspirational living available in their own backyard, many will likely turn their attention inwards rather than looking across borders," added Mr. Ankit Kansal.


Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 Reveals Extended 51–100 List

Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 Reveals Extended 51–100 List

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 16, 2026

Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, sponsored by S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna, has unveiled the extended 51–100 list for 2026 ahead of the main awards ceremony set to take place in Hong Kong. The list provides an early glimpse into the region’s evolving dining landscape and recognises outstanding culinary establishments across Asia.

The rankings are compiled by the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, which consists of more than 350 influential industry leaders including chefs, restaurateurs, culinary professionals, food writers, and critics from across the region.

This year’s extended list spans 27 cities, four more than last year, reflecting the growing diversity and reach of Asia’s dining scene. Ten new cities are represented in the 2026 list, with Busan, Chengdu, Kanazawa, and Nishikawa appearing for the first time.

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A total of 12 restaurants have made their debut on the 51–100 list, highlighting the continued growth and innovation shaping Asia’s culinary landscape.

Seoul leads the rankings by city with seven restaurants featured on the extended list, including the new entry San at No.54. Busan has also made its first appearance in the rankings with Fiotto placed at No.99.

Bangkok has five restaurants on the list, while Singapore and Hong Kong each claim four spots. All three destinations have also welcomed a returning entry this year.

Japan continues to demonstrate strong representation, with Tokyo featuring three restaurants including new entry Sushi Shunji at No.63. The city of Kanazawa has two new restaurants on the list, Kataori at No.82 and Respiración at No.92. Nishikawa also celebrates its debut with Dewaya at No.93, reflecting the growing recognition of culinary excellence across various Japanese cities.

In China, Chef 1996 in Beijing stands out as the highest-ranked new entry, placed at No.52. Chengdu also joins the extended ranking for the first time with restaurant Co- positioned at No.69.

Kuala Lumpur’s Dewakan has recorded the highest rise on the extended list, moving up 22 places to secure the No.62 position.

A spokesperson for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants said, “We are delighted to unveil this year's 51-100 list, welcoming more outstanding establishments into this year's extended ranking. The 51-100 list once again highlights the incredibly diverse and thriving culinary scene of the region, this year including restaurants from 27 cities, with 12 restaurants represented on the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list for the first time.”

The complete list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2026 will be announced during the awards ceremony scheduled for March 25, 2026 in Hong Kong. The event will be held in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and will be streamed live on the 50 Best YouTube channel starting at 20:00 Hong Kong time.


LOT Polish Airlines Begins Rolling Out In-Flight Wi-Fi on Dreamliner Fleet

LOT Polish Airlines Begins Rolling Out In-Flight Wi-Fi on Dreamliner Fleet

By MAnu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 15, 2026

LOT Polish Airlines has begun the process of introducing in-flight Wi-Fi across its long-haul fleet, marking a significant step in enhancing the passenger experience. The service has already been activated on the airline’s first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, registered as SP-LSA.

The national carrier plans to gradually expand the service across its Boeing 787 fleet, with two additional aircraft expected to receive Wi-Fi connectivity by the end of April. The rollout forms part of the airline’s broader strategy to strengthen its onboard offerings and respond to growing passenger expectations for continuous internet access during flights.

The connectivity service is powered by Viasat’s next-generation solution, Viasat Amara. The technology is designed to provide fast and stable internet access, allowing travellers to stay connected with family and colleagues, work remotely, or enjoy online entertainment while travelling.

Izabela Leszczyńska, Director of the Product Development and Customer Experience Office at LOT Polish Airlines, highlighted the importance of connectivity for modern travellers. She said that internet access has become an essential component of long-haul travel, particularly for passengers flying for business or leisure.

“Internet access has become an expected part of the offering on long-haul flights. Therefore, we view its implementation across our fleet as a natural stage in the development of our product, one that responds to the needs of passengers – both those traveling for business and for leisure. We wanted a solution that would ensure stability and high quality, which is why we chose a partner with well-established experience in aviation, whose technology is used by airlines around the world. Our passengers travel with different purposes and expectations. We want them to be able to spend their time on board exactly as they need, productively, staying in touch with loved ones, or in complete relaxation.”

Don Buchman, President of Viasat Aviation, also commented on the collaboration, noting that the introduction of Viasat Amara represents an important milestone in enhancing connectivity for passengers travelling on LOT’s Dreamliner fleet.

“We are proud to bring Viasat Amara to LOT Polish Airlines as they take this important step in elevating the long-haul passenger experience. Delivering fast, reliable in-flight Wi-Fi on the Dreamliner fleet is a meaningful milestone, and LOT’s commitment to offering high-quality connectivity reflects a deep understanding of what today’s travelers expect. With Viasat’s global satellite network and Viasat’s Amara connectivity solution, passengers can stay productive, entertained, and connected throughout their journey, from gate-to-gate—whether they’re working, streaming, or keeping in touch with family and friends. We look forward to continuing our partnership as LOT expands connectivity across its fleet.”

Passengers will have access to two paid Wi-Fi packages. The Chat package, priced at $7, allows instant messaging services, while the Streaming package, priced at $29, enables broader internet access, including browsing websites, watching videos and working online during the flight.

Complimentary internet access will be available for LOT Business Class passengers and members of the Miles & More programme from select partner airlines who hold eligible status, regardless of their travel class.

The range of connectivity packages has been designed to provide flexibility, allowing travellers to choose services that suit their needs, from basic messaging to more advanced internet usage during the journey.

Viasat, the connectivity provider behind the service, is a global communications company with offices in 24 countries. The company focuses on building a global communications network that supports reliable and secure connections across land, air and sea. In May 2023, Viasat completed the acquisition of Inmarsat, combining the technologies and resources of both companies to strengthen its global connectivity solutions.


Disney Cruise Line Debuts in Asia with Maiden Voyage of Disney Adventure

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 14, 2026

Disney Cruise Line has officially entered the Asian cruise market with the maiden voyage of the Disney Adventure, which set sail from Singapore on March 10. The ship becomes the eighth vessel in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and the first to operate in Asia, marking a significant milestone in the company’s global expansion.

The launch of Disney Adventure strengthens The Walt Disney Company’s presence in one of the fastest growing travel regions while also tapping into cruising, one of the most rapidly expanding segments of global tourism.

Joe Schott, President of Disney Signature Experiences, highlighted the significance of the new ship, describing it as a global brand ambassador for Disney Cruise Line. He noted that the vessel brings together Disney’s storytelling, entertainment, and renowned service into a fully immersive cruise experience designed to create lasting memories for guests.

The debut of the ship forms part of Disney Cruise Line’s broader expansion strategy. The company has announced plans to introduce five additional cruise ships between 2027 and 2031, further strengthening its presence in the global cruise industry.

The Disney Adventure is also helping introduce new travellers to Disney cruise vacations. According to a survey of the first guests who booked sailings on the ship, more than 90 percent are sailing with Disney Cruise Line for the first time. The data also indicates that most passengers are first-time cruisers, highlighting the brand’s ability to attract new audiences across Southeast Asia.

Families make up a significant portion of the passengers, reinforcing Disney Cruise Line’s strong appeal in multigenerational travel, a travel trend that is particularly popular in the region. Additionally, many guests plan to spend time in Singapore before or after their cruise, which is expected to contribute positively to the local tourism economy.

Although many passengers are new to cruising with Disney, their familiarity with the brand remains strong. Most guests report having previously experienced Disney through theme parks, films, television shows, or consumer products, making the cruise journey a natural extension of the Disney storytelling universe.

The new ship also brings the Disney experience closer to travellers in the region. For instance, Hong Kong Disneyland is located more than 1,500 miles from Singapore, and the arrival of the Disney Adventure provides a more accessible way for guests in Southeast Asia to enjoy Disney-themed experiences.

Looking ahead, Disney is continuing to expand its cruise footprint in Asia. The company has previously announced plans to collaborate with Oriental Land Co., Ltd. to introduce Disney cruise vacations in Japan, with operations expected to begin by early 2029.

With its Asia debut through the Disney Adventure, Disney Cruise Line aims to connect with new audiences, strengthen its presence in the region, and further grow its global cruise tourism portfolio.

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