OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI’s ‘Royal RESERVE’ Named Maldives’ Leading Luxury Villa for Third Year

OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI’s ‘Royal RESERVE’ Named Maldives’ Leading Luxury Villa for Third Year

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 2, 2025

OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, part of THE OZEN COLLECTION, has once again claimed the spotlight at the 2025 World Travel Awards, winning the coveted title of ‘Maldives’ Leading Luxury Hotel Villa’ for the third consecutive year. The accolade celebrates the resort’s standout offering, the Royal RESERVE, as the epitome of luxury and bespoke hospitality in the Indian Ocean.

Spanning an expansive 3,000 square metres, the Royal RESERVE villa is a sanctuary of opulence, complete with a private beach, panoramic ocean views, and direct lagoon access. Guests enjoy full privacy and an all-encompassing luxury experience, from a dedicated spa treatment room with in-house therapists to a private chef and 24-hour butler service. The villa also features an in-house bar, private restaurant, and handcrafted design details that blend traditional Maldivian aesthetics with modern elegance.

This third straight win reaffirms the villa’s status as one of the world’s most desirable luxury accommodations. It follows a string of previous honours, including ‘World’s Leading Honeymoon Resort’ and ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Villa’, making OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI a consistent leader in premium hospitality.

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“It is with heartfelt pride and deepest appreciation that we receive this coveted accolade from the World Travel Awards for the third consecutive year,” said Monica Coppetta, General Manager of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI. “This extraordinary distinction celebrates our passionate pursuit of crafting unforgettable journeys, where visionary design dances with gracious service amidst the Maldives’ breathtaking serenity.”

In addition to this prestigious win, the resort has also been nominated in the 2025 World Spa Awards as ‘Maldives' Best Wellness Retreat’ for its signature ELE|NA Elements of Nature Spa. This wellness sanctuary combines nature-inspired therapies and modern techniques to deliver a truly rejuvenating experience.

At the heart of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI’s offering is its RESERVE Plan™ — a benchmark in luxury all-inclusive travel. Guests enjoy catamaran transfers, unlimited spa treatments, and gourmet dining across seven venues, along with premium Champagne, curated ocean excursions, and exclusive water sports with Best Dives.

From honeymooners to high-profile travellers seeking an escape into indulgent solitude, the Royal RESERVE is more than just a villa — it’s a celebration of abundant luxury, where every wish is anticipated and fulfilled with graceful precision.

With its growing list of accolades and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of hospitality, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI continues to set the gold standard for meaningful, immersive luxury in the Maldives.


Argentina Eases Entry for Indians Holding Valid US Visas

Argentina Eases Entry for Indians Holding Valid US Visas

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.


Al Habtoor Hospitality Launches ‘The Rewarding Escape,’ Linking Budapest’s Regal Charm with Dubai’s Modern Luxury

Al Habtoor Hospitality Launches ‘The Rewarding Escape,’ Linking Budapest’s Regal Charm with Dubai’s Modern Luxury

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 31, 2025

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 Palace Dubai, Preferred Hotels & Resorts

  • Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection

  • Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

  • Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City

  • V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton

  • Al Habtoor Polo Resort

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.


Monika Alcobev Brings Spain’s Iconic Licor 43 to India

Monika Alcobev Brings Spain’s Iconic Licor 43 to India

By Hariharan U

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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