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By Nithyakala Neelakandan
Published on September 8, 2024
Novotel, a global brand under Accor, has opened its newest property, Novotel Nara, in Japan. Located along the scenic Saho River, the hotel is just minutes away from Shin-Omiya and Nara Stations, providing a peaceful base for visitors exploring the city's cultural heritage.
The hotel offers 264 guest rooms, including executive suites, blending European modernity with traditional Japanese aesthetics. This combination creates a welcoming space for both business and leisure travelers to rejuvenate while experiencing Nara’s rich history.
Novotel Nara acts as a bridge between tourists and the local community. Its prime location allows easy access to UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, offering guests both relaxation and cultural exploration. The hotel aims to connect visitors with Nara’s hidden charms and historical sites, away from the busy city atmosphere.
For dining, guests can enjoy Trattoria Ponte Nara, an all-day restaurant featuring a "slow food" philosophy. The restaurant serves authentic Italian dishes made with local ingredients from Nara, including pizzas crafted with spelt flour from Katsuragi City. Guests can dine in an open-air setting, enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring.
Novotel Nara also provides several leisure spaces, such as the Social Lounge, designed for teatime and socializing. The Rooftop Terrace offers seasonal activities with stunning views of cherry blossoms in spring or the Wakakusa Yamayaki fire in winter. Modern conference facilities and banquet rooms make it an ideal venue for meetings and events.
The hotel emphasizes wellness with a fully equipped fitness center, a public bath, and a wellness lounge that includes a children’s area, ensuring guests of all ages can relax and enjoy their stay.
As part of the Novotel Oceans Initiative, a partnership with WWF, the hotel is committed to sustainability. It aims to reduce plastic use, carbon emissions, and promote sustainable food choices. This initiative highlights Novotel Nara’s dedication to protecting the environment and contributing positively to both the local community and the planet.
Garth Simmons, Accor’s COO in Asia, commented “The opening of Novotel Nara marks a significant milestone for Accor as we continue to expand our footprint in Japan, a country with a rich heritage and a growing demand for quality accommodations. Nara, with its historical significance and cultural depth, is an ideal location for Novotel to provide an experience that combines modern comfort with a deep respect for local traditions. This opening underscores our commitment to contributing to the growth of Japan's tourism sector and offering memorable stays to travellers from around the world.”
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By Hariharan U
Published on August 31, 2025
In a move that promises easier travel, Argentina has eased entry rules for Indian citizens who already hold valid US visas. With this policy, Indians travelling on US tourist visas can now visit Argentina without the need for an additional Argentine visa.
The announcement was made by Argentina’s Ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, who described it as “wonderful news for both Argentina and India.” Sharing the update on X, the ambassador added that Argentina is ready to welcome more Indian tourists to explore its rich culture and natural beauty.
“This is wonderful news for both Argentina and India. We’re ready to welcome more Indian tourists into our wonderful country,” he said.
The change in visa policy comes as India and Argentina continue to strengthen their bilateral relationship. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Argentina’s President Javier Milei in Buenos Aires, underscoring growing cooperation between the two countries.
Agriculture has been a key focus of this partnership. In July, the second Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting on agriculture was held in New Delhi, with both sides exploring collaboration in areas such as mechanisation, pest management, climate-resilient farming and joint research.
With smoother travel access now in place, the move is expected to encourage more Indian visitors to consider Argentina as a destination, while also furthering cultural and economic ties between the two nations.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Al Habtoor Hospitality has unveiled “The Rewarding Escape”, a one-of-a-kind experience that connects the timeless grandeur of Europe with the vibrant luxury of the Middle East. The offer allows guests to enjoy Budapest’s regal Al Habtoor Palace and Dubai’s modern hospitality landmarks in a seamless journey across continents.
The program invites travelers to begin their escape in Budapest, where the Al Habtoor Palace epitomizes imperial elegance with its ornate architecture, regal suites, and views of the Danube. Guests can then continue their adventure in Dubai, where sunlit suites overlook the Arabian Gulf and a skyline of futuristic marvels.
Under this initiative, travelers who book a suite for three or more nights at Al Habtoor Palace Budapest receive a complimentary one-night suite stay including breakfast at participating hotels in Dubai or vice versa. This distinctive offer creates a bridge between two worlds, combining Europe’s cultural heritage with Dubai’s cosmopolitan energy.
“The Rewarding Escape is our promise to deliver more than just a stay, it’s an invitation to experience the full spectrum of our hospitality,” said Sunder Iyer, Chief Operating Officer of Al Habtoor Hospitality. “Al Habtoor Palace Budapest is a jewel in our European portfolio, and we are delighted to connect its imperial grandeur with the dynamic spirit of Dubai.”
Offer Details
Valid for suite reservations made directly with the hotels until December 31, 2025
Stays must be completed by May 31, 2026
Complimentary night voucher issued after initial stay
Subject to availability and blackout dates
Participating Hotels in “The Rewarding Escape”
Budapest:
Al Habtoor Palace Budapest, Preferred Hotels & Resorts
Complimentary stay options in Dubai when booking Budapest:
Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, Preferred Hotels & Resorts
Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
Al Habtoor Polo Resort
Imperial Hotel Vienna
Dubai:
Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection
Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City
V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton
Complimentary stay redeemable at Al Habtoor Palace Budapest when booking Dubai.
With this initiative, Al Habtoor Hospitality aims to transform luxury travel into a multi-destination experience, allowing guests to embrace two worlds in one journey.
Published on August 30, 2025
Monika Alcobev Limited, India’s only listed premium wine and spirits importer, has announced the arrival of Licor 43, Spain’s most celebrated liqueur, to Indian shores. Recognised as the world’s fastest-growing premium liqueur, Licor 43 is now officially available in India, a market that continues to embrace premium spirits and cocktail culture.
The launch reflects Monika Alcobev’s growing role in introducing globally acclaimed brands to Indian consumers. Known for its strong distribution network and premium alcobev portfolio, the company has partnered with Spain’s Zamora Company to bring this iconic liqueur into bars, restaurants, and retail shelves across India.
“Bringing Licor 43 to India is a significant milestone, not just for us, but for the evolving palate of Indian consumers”, said Kunal Patel, Managing Director of Monika Alcobev. “The brand is iconic, versatile, and crafted for modern mixology, and we’re excited to lead its debut in the Indian market.”
Crafted from a blend of 43 natural ingredients including botanicals, spices, and citrus fruits Licor 43 has been a Spanish household favourite for over 70 years. Today, it enjoys popularity in more than 80 countries worldwide. In India, drinkers will now be able to try its globally loved serves such as the refreshing Mini Beer and the indulgent Carajillo 43.
The Indian launch includes Licor 43 Original (700ml and 1000ml), along with indulgent variants such as Licor 43 Chocolate (700ml) and Licor 43 Crème Brûlée (700ml). The debut also brings in other favourites from Zamora Company’s portfolio: Martin Miller’s Gin, and Villa Massa’s Limoncello and Amaretto.
Expressing excitement about the partnership, Ankit Shah, Area Director, AMEA, Zamora Company, said, “The imported spirits market in India is steadily growing, driven by higher disposable incomes and a strong premiumization trend. We are confident that our partnership with Monika Alcobev will help us connect with discerning consumers seeking unique and high-quality products”.
Monika Alcobev already enjoys a strong foothold in North and West India and is expanding rapidly in the South, with reach across Karnataka, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. The launch of Licor 43 will also extend to key cities in East India, strengthening its pan-India presence. Currently, Licor 43 is available in Goa and Mumbai, with more markets to follow soon. Its tagline, “Mix Something New” reflects the brand’s spirit of innovation and Monika Alcobev’s commitment to bringing the finest global flavours to Indian consumers.
With this debut, Monika Alcobev not only adds another celebrated name to its growing portfolio but also reinforces its mission to shape India’s premium spirits landscape.
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