Saudi Tourism Authority Hosts Experiential Perfumery Events in India

Saudi Tourism Authority Hosts Experiential Perfumery Events in India

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 1, 2024

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) recently hosted "Essence of Saudi," a series of perfumery workshops in Mumbai and Delhi. These events, which highlighted the luxurious fragrances of Saudi Arabia, specifically focused on the renowned Taif roses, a hallmark of Saudi perfumeries. Attendees included luxury travel professionals, online travel agents, media personnel, influencers, and travel bloggers, making it a unique initiative by STA to promote Saudi’s rich scent heritage.

Guided by expert perfumers, participants delved into the cultural significance of fragrances in Saudi Arabia and the intricate art of perfume-making. They had the unique opportunity to create their own personalized perfumes, drawing inspiration from the lush landscapes and diverse botanical heritage of Saudi Arabia. This hands-on experience allowed them to craft unique blends that reflected their individual tastes.

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The event emphasized the importance of fragrance in Saudi culture, with a special focus on the exquisite Taif roses. These roses are a symbol of the country's natural abundance and play a crucial role in Saudi perfumery. The workshops provided a platform for attendees to learn about the detailed process of creating perfumes, from selecting high-quality ingredients to the artful blending of scents. This immersive experience aimed to foster a deeper appreciation for Saudi fragrances and culture, helping to strengthen the connection between Indian travelers and Saudi Arabia’s offerings.

Taif, often referred to as the "city of roses" and "friend of the clouds," enjoys cool weather year-round due to its location on the eastern slopes of the Sarawat Mountains, at an altitude of about 1,700 meters. The region is renowned not only for its Taif roses but also for its diverse agricultural produce, including grapes, berries, pomegranates, and figs. Each December, local farmers prepare the rose fields, and by mid-January, during the peak of winter, they harvest roses known as the "Rose of Taif." These roses, which range from dark hues to light pink, are highly coveted for their enchanting fragrance.

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Numerous perfumeries and rose product factories in Taif are dedicated to producing high-quality perfumes and rose water. Visitors to Taif can enjoy Arabic coffee in local cafes and purchase rose-infused souvenirs such as oils, soaps, and perfumes. The city of Taif is accessible by a scenic three-hour drive from Jeddah, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in experiencing Saudi Arabia’s rich olfactory heritage.

For more information about summer activities and inspiring itineraries, visit VisitSaudi.com.

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About Saudi Tourism Authority

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), established in June 2020, is responsible for marketing Saudi Arabia’s tourism destinations globally and enhancing the destination's offerings through various programs, packages, and business support. STA’s mandate includes developing the country's unique assets and destinations, hosting and participating in industry events, and promoting Saudi’s destination brand both locally and internationally. STA operates 16 representative offices worldwide, serving 38 countries.


Ludlow Coffee Supply Expands in Miami with New All-Day Café Concept

Ludlow Coffee Supply Expands in Miami with New All-Day Café Concept

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

Ludlow Coffee Supply, the Lower East Side-born coffee brand known for its community-driven approach and single-origin coffees, is expanding its presence in Miami with a new location at Domus Brickell Park. The opening marks the brand’s third location in South Florida and second in Miami.

This new outpost represents a significant step for Ludlow Coffee Supply, introducing its first all-day café concept that transitions from a daytime coffee destination into an evening cocktail lounge. The move reflects the brand’s evolution from a neighbourhood coffee shop into a broader hospitality experience that blends coffee culture with nightlife.

Building on its success in New York and South Florida, the brand has developed a loyal following through its specialty coffee offerings and fresh food selections. The Domus Brickell Park location will roll out in two phases. The first phase will feature Ludlow’s signature café experience, similar to its existing outlet at 801 Brickell, while the second phase will introduce a full-service evening menu along with curated programming such as DJ sets, listening sessions, and late-night events.

Speaking about the expansion, John Seymour said, “Miami has always felt like an extension of what we built on the Lower East Side; a city that moves fast but still makes time for real connection. Domus Brickell Park gives us the space to fully realize that vision: a place where the morning espresso crowd and the late-night cocktail crowd are really the same people, just at different hours. We're not just opening a café - we're planting a neighborhood.”

The café menu will feature crafted lattes, espressos, single-origin cold brews, teas, and smoothies, along with signature flavours such as maple, bourbon vanilla, salted caramel, and mocha. Food offerings include breakfast tacos, sandwiches, salads, and grab-and-go options. As the day transitions into evening, a dedicated cocktail programme will take centre stage, extending the experience into a social nightlife setting.

Designed by Zyscovich, the space blends Ludlow’s Lower East Side character with Miami’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Guests can enjoy a bright coffee bar for work and meetings, along with an open patio designed for relaxed, all-day gatherings. As night falls, the venue transforms into a vibrant cocktail space, bringing a new energy to the neighbourhood.

Adding to the experience, Ludlow Market Supply will offer a curated selection of wellness products, pantry essentials, home goods, and vintage items, enhancing the brand’s community-focused approach.

With this launch, Ludlow Coffee Supply continues to expand its footprint while introducing a new format that brings together coffee, culture, and nightlife in a seamless experience.


The Imperia by Dhaba Appoints Chef Jasbir Singh Adhikari as Assistant Chef

The Imperia by Dhaba Appoints Chef Jasbir Singh Adhikari as Assistant Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

The Imperia by Dhaba has announced the appointment of Jasbir Singh Adhikari as Assistant Chef. The restaurant, known for its fine-dining Indian cuisine, is part of a well-established family-owned group with a strong presence across New York City and New Jersey.

With an impressive 36 years of culinary experience, Chef Adhikari brings deep expertise in Indian cuisine, especially in traditional and tandoor-based cooking. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation for balancing authenticity with evolving global tastes, shaped by his extensive work across international kitchens.

He has previously worked with Old World Hospitality, including its well-known restaurant Chor Bazar, where he contributed to showcasing India’s rich culinary heritage. His international experience includes roles at Tandoori King, Indian Restaurant Maharani, and Indian Restaurant Ganga, further refining his skills and understanding of diverse dining preferences.

In India, he has also been associated with Residency Resort Pvt. Ltd., strengthening his foundation in premium hospitality and guest-focused dining experiences. His career across continents reflects his adaptability, consistency, and commitment to quality.

In his new role, Chef Adhikari will support the culinary leadership team in delivering authentic Indian flavours while maintaining the brand’s standards of excellence and innovation.

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Sharing his thoughts, Chef Jasbir Singh Adhikari said, “I am truly honored to join The Imperia by Dhaba, a brand that represents authenticity and excellence in Indian cuisine. I look forward to contributing my experience to create memorable dining experiences while staying true to traditional flavors.”

The management expressed confidence that his experience and passion will play a key role in enhancing guest satisfaction and further strengthening the restaurant’s reputation in the region.


Azerai Resorts Introduces Premium Wedding Packages in Vietnam

Azerai Resorts Introduces Premium Wedding Packages in Vietnam

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 18, 2026

Azerai Resorts has introduced new premium wedding packages across its properties in Vietnam, offering couples a chance to celebrate their special day in scenic and thoughtfully designed settings. The offerings focus on personalised experiences that bring together elegance, comfort, and attention to detail.

The wedding packages are available at Azerai Ke Ga Bay and Azerai La Residence, Hue. Both properties combine natural surroundings with Azerai’s signature hospitality, offering flexible indoor and outdoor venues suited for celebrations of different sizes. Each wedding is customised to match the couple’s preferences, ensuring a unique and memorable experience.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay, located in southern Vietnam, offers a beachfront setting ideal for intimate and mid-sized weddings. The resort can host up to 100 guests, with options to exchange vows at a beachfront sunken lounge for smaller gatherings or on a spacious pooldeck for larger celebrations. Dining experiences can be arranged by the poolside, at the Dining Room restaurant, or in a garden lounge overlooking natural surroundings. Couples also have the option to book the entire resort for a private celebration, with personalised décor and arrangements designed to reflect their vision.

Situated around a 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, the resort is spread across five hectares of landscaped gardens, with views of Hon Ba Island and nearby sand dunes. Azerai Ke Ga Bay has also received notable recognition, including a MICHELIN Key in 2025 as a “very special stay” and the Best Boutique Resort of the Year at the Gourmet Vietnam Awards by Epicure magazine. It has also been ranked among the most Instagrammable hotels globally and recognised as one of Southeast Asia’s leading boutique properties.

For those looking for a more historic setting, Azerai La Residence, Hue offers a riverside venue in Vietnam’s former imperial capital. The property can host weddings for up to 300 guests, with popular options including poolside dinners overlooking the Perfume River. Ceremonies and receptions can be held at the Le Gouverneur Bar Terrace or on the wooden deck near Le Spa, while dining experiences are hosted at Le Parfum restaurant.

The hotel also offers themed wedding packages with elegant décor, curated menus, and personalised elements. Couples are provided with a one-night stay in a Superior Riverview Room, along with a set-menu dinner, a bottle of Champagne with a glass tower, and a 60-minute spa treatment for two.

Azerai La Residence, Hue is built around a colonial mansion dating back to 1930, known for its art deco design and architectural character. The property has also been recognised as one of Vietnam’s top hotels by The Times in the UK.

With these new offerings, Azerai Resorts continues to position itself as a preferred choice for destination weddings, combining scenic locations, personalised service, and curated experiences for modern couples.

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