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By Nithyakala Neelakandan
Published on July 7, 2024
InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has launched its first property in the Greek Islands, introducing InterContinental Crete. This new addition to IHG Hotels & Resorts' luxury and lifestyle portfolio, now the second largest in the world, represents a fresh take on contemporary Grecian hospitality. The property aligns with InterContinental's ongoing evolution, rooted in over 75 years of luxury travel heritage.
InterContinental Crete is situated along the pristine coastline of Mirabello Bay, offering panoramic views and a rugged coastal backdrop. The resort’s modern architecture and state-of-the-art amenities provide a tranquil escape just a short walk from the bustling coastal city of Agios Nikolaos. The island’s capital, Heraklion, and its airport are less than an hour away, making the hotel easily accessible for international travelers.
The resort features two outdoor infinity pools overlooking Mirabello Bay and three Mediterranean-inspired restaurants. These dining venues are led by Michelin-starred Chef Consultant Nikos Roussos, who crafts menus that celebrate Cretan culinary heritage with locally sourced ingredients.
The Aegeo Spa offers a range of treatments, including a Cretan massage with local olive oil, saffron-infused anti-aging therapies, and antioxidant-rich cryotherapy. The spa’s facilities include a hammam, sauna, steam room, indoor pool, and relaxation areas. Additionally, there is a fully equipped gym for guests.
InterContinental Crete boasts 199 guestrooms and suites designed to evoke serenity and elegance. The rooms feature contemporary linens, organic-inspired décor, and traditional Cretan influences. Many rooms offer private plunge pools, balconies, and luxurious amenities, making them ideal for couples, families, and multi-generational travelers.
The hotel's three restaurants—ZEUS, KNOSSOS, and MINOAN—are overseen by Chef Nikos Roussos, who has earned two Michelin stars. The culinary offerings focus on modern Greek cuisine, emphasizing seasonality and local ingredients. The wine list highlights indigenous grape varieties, and cocktail menus are crafted by award-winning mixologist Elias Stergiopoulos, designed to complement the scenic setting.
InterContinental Crete integrates the island's rich history and natural beauty into its design. Guests are greeted by an original sculpture combining elements of the Sphinx and Minotaur, reflecting Crete’s ancient myths. Bronze creatures adorn the corridor handrails, adding a touch of local artistry throughout the property.
The hotel’s concierge team acts as cultural connectors, offering guests personalized experiences such as tours of archaeological sites, traditional villages, natural gorges, vineyards, and olive groves. This focus on local culture aligns with InterContinental’s belief in the power of travel to expand the mind and connect diverse cultures.
InterContinental Crete sets a new standard for luxury hospitality in the Greek Islands, blending modern amenities with cultural richness. The resort invites guests to explore the timeless beauty of Crete, from its historical sites to its stunning landscapes. With rooms starting at €205 per night for IHG One Rewards members, InterContinental Crete promises an unforgettable Mediterranean escape.
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on December 19, 2025
Actor Sagarika Ghatge and former Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan recently travelled to the Maldives for a serene island escape at RAAYA by Atmosphere, accompanied by their son. The family getaway reflected a celebration of togetherness, slow living, and meaningful moments, with their little one charming hearts as the most delightful travel companion.
During their stay, the family embraced the calm rhythm of island life, spending time amidst RAAYA Island’s lush greenery, turquoise waters, and tranquil beachfront spaces. From relaxed walks along powdery white sands to playful moments by the pool, the holiday focused on bonding, sunshine, and creating cherished memories as a young family.
Designed around creativity, nature, and freedom of space, RAAYA by Atmosphere proved to be an ideal retreat for guests of all ages. With expansive natural surroundings, thoughtfully designed family villas, the exclusive RAAYA Residence, diverse culinary offerings, and engaging experiences tailored for both adults and children, the resort offered a seamless balance of privacy, comfort, and family-friendly luxury.
Sharing her experience, Sagarika Ghatge said, “This trip was really about spending time together as a family and slowing down from our usual pace. RAAYA by Atmosphere made that so easy. The turquoise waters, serene beachfront, and lush surroundings felt completely relaxed and welcoming. We loved being able to switch off, enjoy the little moments, and simply be together without any rush.”
Reflecting on the holiday, Zaheer Khan added, “This trip was the perfect blend of family time and luxury. What we loved most about RAAYA by Atmosphere is that it’s a true, natural island, lush with greenery, shaded by old trees and surrounded by a beautiful lagoon. The pleasant weather and the calm of being immersed in nature made the experience even more meaningful for us as a family, and RAAYA by Atmosphere truly made this holiday unforgettable.”
The Maldivian escape further highlights RAAYA by Atmosphere’s growing appeal among celebrities, who are increasingly seeking soulful, immersive holidays that go beyond glamour. With its unhurried island philosophy, welcoming environment for families, and deep connection to nature, the resort continues to attract guests looking for meaningful travel experiences.
Sagarika Ghatge and Zaheer Khan also shared glimpses of their holiday on social media, offering fans a peek into their peaceful family time and the natural beauty of RAAYA by Atmosphere. Their stay beautifully captured the essence of the resort’s laid-back luxury and its promise of heartfelt moments created in harmony with nature.
Published on December 17, 2025
Ras Al Khaimah is set to welcome the New Year in grand style on 31 December 2025, promising its most spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration to date with an ambitious attempt to set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the largest fireworks display ever launched.
The emirate’s New Year celebrations this year are inspired by themes of strength, renewal, and progress, reflecting Ras Al Khaimah’s dynamic growth and future vision. A carefully choreographed fusion of innovative fireworks, illuminated drones, and laser technology will transform the night sky into a breathtaking visual spectacle, creating one of the world’s most immersive New Year’s Eve experiences.
The highlight of the celebrations will be the 15-minute midnight fireworks show on 31 December 2025, stretching across an impressive six kilometres from Marjan Island to Al Hamra. More than 2,300 drones, including pyro and laser drones, will take part in the display, forming striking aerial patterns and visuals. As the clock strikes midnight and 2026 begins, the show will culminate with the launch of the largest single firework ever seen.
Ras Al Khaimah’s New Year’s Eve programme will feature two fireworks displays on 31 December 2025. The first show will take place at 8:00 PM above Corniche Al Qawasim, offering families and residents an early opportunity to enjoy the celebrations. The main midnight display will follow at 12:00 AM, lighting up the skies over Marjan Island and Al Hamra Bay with a blend of large-scale pyrotechnics and drone formations.
Adding to the festivities, the Ras Al Khaimah New Year’s Eve Festival will be held at Al Hamra, starting from 2:00 PM on 31 December 2025. The free-entry festival will feature live entertainment, food trucks, and carnival-style activities designed for visitors of all ages. The event will include performances by DJ BobMix, known for his mix of international and Arabic hits, a live act by Indo-Canadian Bollywood singer Shweta Subram, and an international set by DJ Bia.
To ensure smooth access to the celebrations, multiple parking zones will be available around the festival area, including a dedicated zone for caravans and camping. Visitors are required to register their vehicles in advance at www.raknye.com, which is mandatory for parking access and provides important information on entry and exit routes.
For audiences around the world, the record-setting fireworks display will be streamed live on 31 December 2025 via www.raknye.com and across the @visitrasalkhaimah social media channels on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
With 13 GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS titles achieved over the past seven years, Ras Al Khaimah continues to reinforce its position as one of the world’s leading destinations for unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebrations as it ushers in 2026 with unmatched scale and spectacle.
This festive season, the Maldives glows with renewed charm as Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts and Colours of OBLU unveil a vibrant lineup of Christmas and New Year celebrations across their island resorts. Blending tropical indulgence with festive traditions, the celebrations begin ahead of Christmas and flow seamlessly into the New Year, creating a season filled with warmth, joy and island-inspired magic.
Two signature resorts, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives and OBLU SELECT Lobigili, take centre stage with distinctive festive experiences designed to reflect the spirit of the season while staying true to their unique all-inclusive island identities.
At Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, celebrations run from 21 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, bringing together relaxed mornings, festive evenings and lively beachside moments. Guests can start their days with sunrise yoga sessions or calm lagoon cruises, followed by cheerful gatherings around the Grand Kanifushi Christmas Tree, carol evenings and themed celebrations. Christmas Eve features Santa’s arrival, flowing drinks, upbeat music and a beachfront gala that continues into an open-air DJ party. Christmas Day offers a slower pace with a festive lunch, live music and a Cinema Under the Stars experience. The season reaches its peak with the Twilight Fantazia New Year’s Gala, where fireworks light up the beach as 2026 is welcomed in style. Complementing the celebrations is a festive offer that includes a 20% saving on a minimum four-night stay, complimentary round-trip seaplane transfers, the signature all-inclusive KANIFUSHI Plan, curated festive dining experiences, live entertainment and a New Year’s Eve gala dinner.
OBLU SELECT Lobigili presents a more intimate festive escape for couples, with celebrations taking place from 22 December 2025 to 9 January 2026. The adults-only island sets a relaxed and romantic tone, with days featuring lagoon adventures, wellness sessions and couples’ workshops. As Christmas approaches, the island comes alive with a tree-lighting ceremony, seasonal touches and cosy evening entertainment. Christmas Eve includes sunset cocktails, a gala dinner at Ylang Ylang and a Movie Under the Stars. The festivities culminate on New Year’s Eve with a Masquerade-themed celebration filled with music, dancing and fireworks over the lagoon. Guests can also enjoy a festive offer with up to 20% off on a minimum four-night stay, complimentary round-trip transfers, the all-inclusive LOBI Plan, Christmas tree lighting, gingerbread decorating, a festive pool party, a Christmas Eve gala dinner and a cosy movie night under the stars.
Across all Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts and Colours of OBLU properties, the festive season becomes more than just a celebration. It unfolds as a collection of thoughtfully crafted moments, blending island beauty, heartfelt hospitality and the joy of togetherness, set against the serene backdrop of the Maldives.
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