Ola Joins ONDC for Food Delivery Services and Eyes New CEO for Cab Business

Ola Joins ONDC for Food Delivery Services and Eyes New CEO for Cab Business

By Author

Published on September 3, 2023

Ola, the mobility giant, is venturing into the food delivery arena once again by partnering with the government-backed Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). This move places Ola in competition with the likes of Swiggy and others in the food delivery space. The feature has been under testing for over a month within the Ola app, initially for employees and a select group of users, under the name 'Ola ONDC food.'

While this venture marks Ola's fourth attempt at food delivery, it appears to have promising potential. The ONDC platform connects online buyers and sellers, and Ola's integration with it simplifies the process of bringing multiple restaurants and food brands to Ola's app for food delivery. This strategic move eliminates the complexities associated with integrating restaurant partners and consumers.

Moreover, there's buzz about Ola appointing a CEO for its cab business. This shift is aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. The new CEO, possibly an ex-Unilever executive, is expected to join the company soon, according to reports.

These moves come on the heels of Ola reporting losses amounting to INR 3,082 crore in the fiscal year 2021-22. However, Ola's foray into food delivery and the appointment of a new CEO signal the company's determination to diversify and expand its services, potentially leading to a more competitive and dynamic future in the mobility and food delivery sectors.

As ONDC continues to make waves in the e-commerce landscape, this partnership could redefine the food delivery industry by offering restaurants and food chains more competitive pricing options due to lower or non-existent commissions, depending on buyer-seller agreements. This strategic integration positions Ola for growth and innovation, while the appointment of a new CEO reflects the company's commitment to strategic leadership and operational excellence.


Rosewood Hong Kong Named No.1 in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025

Rosewood Hong Kong Named No.1 in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 3, 2025

Rosewood Hong Kong has been named The World’s Best Hotel 2025, securing the No.1 position on The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 list, announced at a live awards ceremony in London. The global ranking celebrates exceptional hospitality across 22 destinations and six continents, along with several special award recognitions.

Opened in 2019, the 65-storey Rosewood Hong Kong towers over Victoria Harbour on the Kowloon waterfront, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. Designed by acclaimed Taiwanese designer Tony Chi, the 413-room luxury property features eleven restaurants and bars, a stunning harbour-view infinity pool, and the renowned multi-level Asaya wellness facility.

The hotel climbed two spots from its previous No.3 position in 2024, also earning the title of The Best Hotel in Asia.

Emma Sleight, Head of Content for The World’s 50 Best Hotels, said, “We are delighted to celebrate Rosewood Hong Kong’s No.1 spot – a property that has consistently featured in the top three since the inception of the awards in 2023. This exceptional hotel offers world-class service and experiences in one of the world’s most vibrant destinations.”

The second and third positions were claimed by Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River and Capella Bangkok, respectively, reaffirming Asia’s dominance in the luxury hospitality segment. In total, 20 hotels from Asia featured on the list, followed by Europe with 17, North America with 6, Africa with 3, Oceania with 2, and South America with 2.

Among the special awards announced were:

  • Best Boutique Hotel Award: Passalacqua, Lake Como (No.4)

  • Eco Hotel Award: Desa Potato Head, Bali (No.18)

  • Best New Hotel Award: Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, Beijing (No.14)

  • Icon Award: Ian Schrager

  • Art of Design Award: Singita – Kruger National Park (No.40)

  • Most Admired Hotel Group: Four Seasons

  • Highest Climber Award: Royal Mansour, Marrakech (No.13)

  • Highest New Entry Award: Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro (No.11)

  • Best Beach Hotel Award: Atlantis The Royal, Dubai (No.6)

This year’s ranking highlights Asia’s continued leadership in the global hospitality landscape, with standout performances from India, Japan, Thailand, and Hong Kong. The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai (No.38) marked India’s presence on the global list, while properties from Europe, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas showcased diverse excellence in design, innovation, and service.

Now in its third year, The World’s 50 Best Hotels awards have become a defining benchmark for global hospitality excellence, recognising hotels that set new standards in guest experience, sustainability, and creativity.


Ensana Expands into Germany with Fürstenhof Takeover in Bad Griesbach

Ensana Expands into Germany with Fürstenhof Takeover in Bad Griesbach

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 3, 2025

Ensana Hotels, Europe’s largest provider of health and wellness spas, has announced its entry into Germany with the takeover of the renowned Fürstenhof hotel in Bad Griesbach, Bavaria. Known for its rich thermal springs and tranquil natural beauty, Bad Griesbach is part of the famous Lower Bavarian Spa Triangle, alongside Bad Füssingen and Bad Birnbach.

The Fürstenhof, a property steeped in tradition, will undergo extensive renovations, including modernization of guest rooms, wellness spaces, and treatment areas. Its grand reopening is scheduled for the second quarter of 2026. Once complete, the hotel will seamlessly blend classic Bavarian elegance with Ensana’s signature health-focused offerings, creating a serene retreat for rejuvenation and recreation.

Guests will be able to enjoy tailored health programmes that combine natural healing methods with modern medical expertise, an approach Ensana has perfected over decades. The property will offer treatments designed for musculoskeletal health, stress reduction, and holistic well-being. Surrounded by lush forests and Europe’s largest golf resort, Fürstenhof also offers unique wellness-golf combinations, including exclusive packages with reduced fees and reserved tee times for guests.

Frank Halmos, CEO of Ensana, expressed the significance of this milestone:

“The step to come to Germany marks an important milestone within our growth strategy and will strengthen Ensana’s leading role in European spa hospitality. With our expertise, we aim to enrich and extend the offerings in Bad Griesbach, appealing to a new generation of health-conscious guests.”

He further added that Ensana’s focus on personalized care, innovative natural remedies, and holistic wellness would redefine the spa experience in Lower Bavaria.

As part of its ambitious expansion strategy, Ensana plans to double its international portfolio by 2030, reinforcing its position as a leader in European health and wellness hospitality.


Kenya’s Hidden Honeymoon Escapes: Wild, Romantic & Wonderfully Untamed

Kenya’s Hidden Honeymoon Escapes: Wild, Romantic & Wonderfully Untamed

By Hariharan U

Published on November 1, 2025

For couples who crave both adventure and intimacy, Kenya stands out as a honeymoon destination that captures the best of both worlds. Imagine camping under a starlit sky with the sounds of the wild echoing in the background, waking up to birdsong, and setting out to spot lions and elephants at dawn. Add candlelit dinners, fresh African cuisine, and the gentle hum of nature, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for romance in the wild.

Kenya is best known for the Masai Mara and its incredible Great Migration, but there’s so much more waiting beyond the savannahs. Whether you’re drawn to city experiences, coastal calm, or secluded safaris, Kenya has plenty of hidden gems for honeymooners to explore.

While many travellers treat Nairobi as a brief halt before the wild adventures begin, the capital city is worth exploring on its own. Start your journey at the Giraffe Centre, a delightful experience where visitors can hand-feed the endangered Rothschild giraffes from an elevated platform, a memory that’s both charming and heartwarming.

If you’re easing into relaxation mode after the wedding rush, luxury boutique hotels in the city offer rejuvenating spa treatments and tranquil stays. For couples with a spirit of adventure, a day trip to Nairobi National Park provides an early glimpse of Kenya’s wildlife spot rhinos, lions, and other majestic animals roaming freely.

Head to Westlands, the vibrant heart of Nairobi, where chic cafés, rooftop bars, and art galleries create the perfect date-night atmosphere. For golf enthusiasts, Nairobi’s lush greens, like Muthaiga Golf Club, Karen Country Club, and Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club promise memorable mornings on the course.

Kenya’s coastline is a dream come true for beach lovers. With its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and breezy islands, it offers just as much allure as its wildlife-rich parks. The UNESCO-listed island of Lamu charms visitors with its Swahili culture, narrow streets, and traditional dhows gliding across the shimmering sea. Enjoy freshly caught seafood, explore hidden caves, or sail through mangroves at sunset.

For a touch of adventure, couples can go diving, kitesurfing, or snorkelling at Watamu or the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park. Those seeking a cultural fix will find Mombasa equally enchanting with its mix of heritage and modernity.

Want to wake up by the sea? Choose from Almanara Luxury Resort & Spa on Diani Beach or the idyllic The Sands at Chale Island, both offering plush stays and breathtaking ocean views that redefine luxury.

image

While the Masai Mara remains Kenya’s safari showstopper, there are quieter, equally stunning sanctuaries for honeymooners. The Segera Retreat blends luxury with sustainability, making it ideal for couples who want a mindful getaway. In Laikipia, private conservancies like Lewa and Ol Pejeta offer intimate game drives and a chance to see the last two northern white rhinos on Earth.

The Samburu National Reserve is another must-visit, known for its dramatic landscapes and rare species such as the Grevy’s zebra and the reticulated giraffe. Stay at the Saruni Samburu Lodge, where the infinity pool offers endless views of untouched wilderness—a scene straight out of a dream.

Kenya has a way of turning moments into memories. Picture yourselves drifting over the Savannah in a hot air balloon, or enjoying a private bush dinner under a sky full of stars. Toast your love on a dhow ride in Lamu, or relax with a couple’s massage in a seaside cabana while the Indian Ocean hums in the background.

Whether you’re on your honeymoon, babymoon, or just seeking a luxurious escape filled with adventure and affection, Kenya offers experiences that go far beyond the ordinary.

So skip the clichés, let Kenya surprise you with its perfect mix of the wild, the warm, and the wonderfully romantic.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.