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.


Lyf one-north Singapore Joins Ascott’s Expanding Pet-Friendly Portfolio

Lyf one-north Singapore Joins Ascott’s Expanding Pet-Friendly Portfolio

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 2, 2025

Lyf one-north Singapore, the latest addition to Ascott Limited’s growing portfolio of pet-friendly accommodations, has officially opened its doors in Singapore. This new property caters to travelers with pets, offering a welcoming space for both guests and their furry companions. It is the newest member of a group that includes Citadines Balestier Singapore, Citadines Raffles Place Singapore, and Oakwood Studios Singapore.

Situated in the dynamic one-north district, known for its blend of corporations, start-ups, and creative communities, Lyf one-north Singapore promises a vibrant living experience. The property boasts 324 apartment units designed for mid- and long-term stays, making it ideal for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and creatives. Located just steps away from the one-north MRT station, it offers easy access to a variety of recreational, retail, and dining options, including pet-friendly establishments.

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Ascott’s commitment to enhancing guest experiences extends beyond accommodation. At Lyf one-north Singapore, guests can enjoy a variety of pet-related activities. These include pet adoption drives, yoga sessions for dogs and cats, pet treat workshops, and pet obedience training sessions, designed to make both pets and their owners feel right at home.

Ms. Judy Wong, Country General Manager, Singapore Operations, Ascott, said, "For many of our guests, pets aren’t just animals; they’re family. At our pet-friendly properties, we ensure that both you and your fur-kids can find comfort and care together." The introduction of Lyf one-north Singapore offers pet lovers another ideal location, perfectly suited for creating lasting memories with their pets.

Additionally, Ascott continues to offer its pet-friendly services at properties like Citadines Balestier and Oakwood Studios, further cementing its place as a hospitality leader in catering to the needs of guests traveling with their pets.

Lyf one-north Singapore also provides convenient amenities like pedestrian pathways and cycling tracks, making it easy for guests to explore the area with their pets. To enhance the experience for pet owners, Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) members receive special perks, including a welcome kit for guests traveling with pets.

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Guests looking for a pet-friendly dining experience can also head to Entrepôt at The Robertson House by The Crest Collection, where pets are welcome in the alfresco dining area.

For more information and reservations, visit www.entrepot.sg.

About Ascott Limited

Ascott Limited is a leading global serviced residence owner-operator with a portfolio of over 980 properties across more than 230 cities worldwide. The company, a business unit of CapitaLand Investment, provides a variety of lodging options to suit every traveler’s needs.

For more details, visit www.discoverasr.com.


Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter Officially Join the Carnival Fleet in Australia

Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter Officially Join the Carnival Fleet in Australia

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 31, 2025

Marking an exciting new chapter for Carnival Cruise Line, two new ships, Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter, have officially joined its global fleet, setting sail from Sydney and Brisbane. With this expansion, Carnival now operates 29 ships, the largest fleet in its 53-year history, reinforcing its status as Australia’s leading cruise operator.

The official welcome ceremony for Carnival Adventure took place in Sydney, led by Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. A second celebratory event was held in Brisbane, homeport of Carnival Encounter, before both ships embarked on their maiden voyages.

A Smooth Transition from P&O Australia to Carnival Fun

As part of the transition of P&O Australia into the Carnival brand, the ships previously known as Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter have been redesigned to match Carnival’s signature onboard experiences while retaining some of P&O’s most-loved features. Together with Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa, these ships will host over 500,000 guests from Australia this year.

"Our expansion in Australia is a testament to the enthusiasm for our brand," said Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line. "Doubling our presence in Australia allows us to offer more sailing options and strengthen our ties with the Sydney and Brisbane communities."

Enhanced Digital Experience and Exciting Onboard Offerings

Guests sailing on Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter can now use Carnival’s HubApp, a user-friendly digital platform that allows seamless reservations for dining and excursions, onboard activity browsing, and direct communication with fellow guests.

Both ships will also be integrated into Carnival’s VIFP Club loyalty program, offering exclusive promotions and perks to frequent travelers.

Unmatched Onboard Entertainment and Dining

Passengers can enjoy a blend of P&O’s popular dining and entertainment along with Carnival’s signature experiences:

  • Dining Delights: Luke’s Bar & Grill and other specialty restaurants.

  • Entertainment: Comedy shows, deck parties, and 80s Rock and Glow nights.

  • Family Fun: Build-A-Bear workshops, Seuss at Sea, and Camp Ocean for kids.

With a combination of exceptional hospitality and exciting onboard activities, these ships promise unforgettable cruise experiences for guests departing from Sydney and Brisbane.

For bookings, visit www.carnival.com or contact your preferred travel advisor.


DWP Privé 2025: The Ultimate Destination for Luxury Weddings in Sri Lanka

DWP Privé 2025: The Ultimate Destination for Luxury Weddings in Sri Lanka

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 29, 2025

DWP Privé, the highly anticipated event in the world of luxury weddings, is set to unfold at Cinnamon Life – City of Dreams in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from April 9 to 11, 2025. Organized by QnA International, this exclusive invitation-only gathering will bring together the leading names in the global destination wedding industry, setting new benchmarks for luxury celebrations worldwide.

A Premier Event for the Luxury Wedding Industry

Building upon the legacy of the DWP Congress, DWP Privé is a platform designed for elite wedding planners, luxury travel experts, and industry pioneers to network, discuss trends, and explore innovations shaping the future of destination weddings. With the global market projected to exceed $64 billion by 2030, this event presents an unparalleled opportunity to connect with experts, exchange ideas, and redefine luxury wedding experiences.

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DWP Privé will host an impressive lineup of industry icons, including:

  • Preston Bailey – globally renowned wedding designer

  • Nadia Duran – luxury event specialist

  • Sumant Jayakrishnan – celebrated set designer

  • Elizabeth Solaru – international wedding cake designer

  • Devika Narain – leading wedding stylist

  • Funke Bucknor-Obruthe, Cyrielle Mohara, Mahesh Shirodkar, and Kathy Wang, among others

These industry leaders will bring their decades of expertise to the forefront, sharing insights into the evolving world of luxury weddings.

Cinnamon Life: The Perfect Host for an Exclusive Event

Cinnamon Life – City of Dreams, Sri Lanka’s first integrated lifestyle resort, serves as the ideal backdrop for an event that blends opulence, exclusivity, and cultural richness. Alessandro Aldo Cabella, Senior Vice President at Cinnamon Life, shared his excitement about hosting the event:

"We are thrilled to host DWP Privé Limited Edition at Cinnamon Life. This is a proud moment for Sri Lanka, as we showcase our country’s unparalleled beauty, warm hospitality, and world-class venues to the global luxury wedding industry. Cinnamon Life embodies elegance and grandeur, making it the perfect setting for this prestigious event."

Sri Lanka: A Rising Star in Destination Weddings

With its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Sri Lanka is rapidly gaining recognition as a top wedding destination. The country’s diverse landscapes—ranging from tea plantations and ancient cities to tropical jungles and coastal retreats—offer picturesque settings for dream weddings.

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According to Alessandro, the event will further solidify Sri Lanka’s status as a trending wedding destination:

"Sri Lanka’s rich culture and scenic charm make it an irresistible choice for couples seeking unforgettable wedding experiences. The DWP Privé aims to showcase the best of what Sri Lanka has to offer, ensuring its status as a trending destination for 2025."

An Unmissable Experience for Industry Leaders

With limited seats available, DWP Privé is expected to attract top professionals from the wedding, luxury travel, and hospitality sectors, offering them an exclusive opportunity to explore:

  • Emerging trends and challenges in the luxury wedding space

  • Sri Lanka’s growing outbound wedding market

  • Innovations in wedding planning and execution

Sidh NC, Director of QnA International, highlighted the essence of the event:

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"The architectural brilliance of Cinnamon Life represents a moonstone—a symbol of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage—while embracing a future-forward vision for the region. This reflects the spirit of DWP Privé, designed to carry forward the legacy of the DWP Congress with a modern and sophisticated twist. Attendees can expect an event that combines luxury, exclusivity, and the finest elements of the destination wedding industry."

As the world of luxury destination weddings continues to evolve, DWP Privé 2025 promises to be a landmark event, shaping the future of opulent wedding celebrations on a global scale.

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