Sunset Hospitality Group Appoints New Chief Operating Officer for Sunset Hotels & Resorts

Sunset Hospitality Group Appoints New Chief Operating Officer for Sunset Hotels & Resorts

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 19, 2024

Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Philipp Knuepfer as the new Chief Operating Officer of Sunset Hotels & Resorts. With over 20 years of international experience in the luxury hospitality sector, Philipp will play a key role in supporting the growth of Sunset Hotels & Resorts and overseeing global operations, solidifying SHG’s reputation as a leader in the hospitality industry.

The strategic hire follows SHG’s recent announcement of the new Sunset Hotels & Resorts and an ambitious expansion plan to develop, open, and operate 20 new hotels by the end of 2025. The beginning of 2024 saw SHG accelerate its hotel portfolio expansion by acquiring the renowned Gran Hotel La Florida in Barcelona, which is set to be renovated in time for its 100-year anniversary in 2025. Sunset Hotels & Resorts currently operates a portfolio of five hotels, with a strong pipeline of projects in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

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Philipp joins SHG from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, where he served as Area Vice President and General Manager, successfully managing the group’s portfolio across Singapore, Taiwan, Vietnam, and the Philippines. His tenure with Mandarin Oriental included senior management positions in Hawaii, Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Washington D.C., and Boston. Philipp's strategic capabilities and commercial expertise in both developed and developing markets will be essential in contributing to SHG’s growth and long-term success.

A German national, Philipp holds a Hotel Management degree from the International School for Hotel Business in Germany and an MBA from RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. He is a graduate of the Cornell Hotel School in Ithaca, New York, and has completed advanced leadership education at the London Business School and Columbia University.

Assuming the role of Chief Operating Officer, Philipp will be based out of SHG’s Singapore office, adding value for the Group’s investors and stakeholders in Asia. SHG has already established a solid presence in South Asia with homegrown brands like Attiko, Azure Beach, and Hanu coming soon to Vietnam, and the highly acclaimed hotspot SUSHISAMBA set to open in the Capital Tower building in Singapore in July. Asia is a key market for SHG, promising an exciting pipeline of extraordinary lifestyle hospitality experiences in Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Philipp Knuepfer, COO of Sunset Hotels & Resorts, SHG, expressed his excitement about the new role, stating, “I’m excited to be joining a talented team in a company with such an impressive global footprint and an enviable reputation as a leader in the hospitality industry. My focus is to support the growth of Sunset Hotels & Resorts, further cementing its reputation as one of the leading luxury hotel providers committed to delivering pioneering hotel concepts and extraordinary lifestyle hospitality experiences around the world. I can’t wait to continue and develop the incredible work that SHG has been doing.”

Jaime Buxo Clos, CEO of Sunset Hotels & Resorts, SHG, welcomed Philipp on board, saying, “It’s my pleasure to have Philipp join our growing team. He is a values-driven business leader with a diverse background of experiences and an excellent track record of delivering results in the hospitality industry. Our new COO will play a fundamental role in driving the growth of Sunset Hotels & Resorts, while further elevating the Group’s presence in Asia.”

About Sunset Hospitality Group:

Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG) was founded in 2011 with a vision to create unique hospitality experiences around the world, ranging from resorts and beach clubs to restaurants and nightlife venues. Since then, the group has grown to become a leading hospitality investment and management company developing new and pioneering concepts and acclaimed multinational brands. SHG has a presence in 17 countries with a proven record in delivering high-quality services at exceptional locations. SHG’s portfolio includes renowned concepts such as METT Hotels & Resorts, Azure Beach, Ammos, Drift Beach Club, AURA, SUSHISAMBA, DREAM, L’Amo Bistro del Mare, Mott 32, Black Tap, Lola Taberna Española, Goldfish, Isola, Raise Fitness & Wellness, and many more.

2023 saw the opening of Azure Beach Marbella, Isola Marbella, Bar de Lola Marbella, Mott 32 Dubai, Signor Sassi Dubai, METT Hotel & Beach Resort Marbella, Yalikavak Marina Hotel Bodrum, Mood Jordan, Raise Marbella, and Santana Bali. For more information, visit Sunset Hospitality Group.

For press enquiries, please contact:

Sara Barrow at sara.barrow@sunsethospitality.com or +971529254615


Father's Day 2025: The Ultimate Gift Guide for Every Kind of Dad

Father's Day 2025: The Ultimate Gift Guide for Every Kind of Dad

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 13, 2025

Father's Day isn’t just a celebration—it’s a heartfelt thank you to the men who lead, guide, and support us. Whether you're shopping for a new dad, your grandfather, or the man who's always had your back, this gift guide has something special for every kind of dad.

Here’s a curated selection of gifts designed to suit different tastes, lifestyles, and personalities:

1. Coffeeverse – French Press

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For the dad who can't start his day without his brew. This beautifully crafted French Press ensures a sediment-free, aromatic coffee experience—an elegant addition to his morning ritual.

2. The Crescent Ring by Oropel

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A timeless gold signet ring that embodies legacy and strength. It can be customised with a family crest or initials—making it the perfect keepsake for the man who means the world to you.

3. Coffee Connection Set by Brillare

imageCoffee meets skincare in this energising set featuring a body wash, lotion, scrub, and crème—all infused with coffee and coconut. A pampering package that dad probably won’t buy for himself!

4. Vanilla Sorbet Body Care Kit by Beauty by BiE

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Give dad the gift of comfort and calm with this indulgent body care kit. The warm vanilla scent and rich hydration make it perfect for unwinding after a long day.

5. Zyto Vodka

imageA refined gift for the dad who enjoys premium spirits. This Polish vodka, newly launched in India, is a celebration of smooth taste and craftsmanship.

6. The Glenwalk Blended Scotch Whisky

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Crafted in Scotland, this blended Scotch whisky offers rich flavours and a smooth finish—ideal for a dad who enjoys the finer things.

7. SuperYou Protein Wafers

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Support his health with these delicious wafers packed with 10g protein and 3g fiber. Available in Coffee, Chocolate, and Strawberry Crème.

8. ITC Maratha’s Gourmet Couch

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Surprise Dad with a luxury dining experience at home. ITC Maratha’s specially curated meals, available from June 10–15, blend culinary expertise with thoughtful presentation. Perfect for a dad who loves good food and fine hospitality.

9. SUYU Skincare Duo

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This minimal yet effective skincare set includes the Astaxanthin Advanced Repair Day Cream—perfect for hardworking dads who deserve daily care and rejuvenation.

10. Coin Cufflinks by Treasures by Tiara

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Symbolising prosperity and legacy, these 9KT gold cufflinks inlaid with rubies are a gift of timeless elegance—just like Dad.

11. Formal Shirts by NOYO

imageSmart, stylish, and made for the modern man. NOYO’s crisp shirts are perfect for the dad who appreciates clean tailoring and classic design.

12. Abundance Infinity Wallet by Scarters

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Designed for convenience and elegance, this wallet offers ample space for cards, cash, and essentials—crafted to match Dad’s on-the-go lifestyle with understated flair.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, Father’s Day is about showing gratitude through thoughtful gestures. Each of these gifts is more than a product—they’re tokens of appreciation for the man who means everything.

Image Courtesy: Respective brands / PR sources


Rajib Roy Choudhury Promoted to Associate Vice President at Vedic Village Spa Resort

Rajib Roy Choudhury Promoted to Associate Vice President at Vedic Village Spa Resort

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 13, 2025

Rajib Roy Choudhury has been promoted to the role of Associate Vice President at Vedic Village Spa Resort, a celebrated eco-conscious destination located near Kolkata International Airport and the city’s upcoming Central Business District. Having served as Senior General Manager for four impactful years, Rajib now steps into a broader strategic role overseeing brand and operational alignment while championing key sustainability initiatives across the resort group.

With a career spanning top-tier properties like Cidade de Goa, Taj Holiday Village, and Radisson White Sands Resort, Rajib brings to the table a wealth of operational expertise and market insight. His leadership journey includes shaping guest experiences and delivering consistent financial results at The Imperial Palace in Rajkot, Vainguinim Valley Resort, Floatel, The Sonnet, and The Ananda Imperial.

At Vedic Village, his commitment to sustainable hospitality and community-driven practices has been pivotal in transforming the resort into a cultural and eco-tourism icon. He has successfully infused Bengal’s rich heritage into the guest journey—celebrated through local cuisine, architecture, and collaborations with artisans and farmers.

Known for his consultative leadership, Rajib has developed high-performing teams, fostered innovation, and nurtured an inclusive culture that’s earned the resort multiple industry accolades. Under his guidance, the resort has seen steady operational excellence and enhanced guest satisfaction.

An active member of CII Tourism Sub-Committee, SKAL, and other industry forums, Rajib continues to engage with corporates, B2B stakeholders, and associations to drive tourism advocacy and best practices. His focus on continuous learning and development—through workshops, conferences, and seminars—reflects his commitment to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving hospitality landscape.

As he takes on his new role, Rajib Roy Choudhury is all set to lead Vedic Village Spa Resort into its next phase of sustainable growth, innovation, and community impact.


Dr. Saju Thuruthil: The Master Muralist of Modern India

Dr. Saju Thuruthil: The Master Muralist of Modern India

By Author

Published on June 12, 2025

In the quiet village of Kalady, Kerala, resides Dr. Saju Thuruthil—one of India’s most revered mural artists, who has spent over 35 years redefining Kerala’s traditional art form. While he stays away from the mainstream art market, his influence resonates globally, with over 2,000 artworks in private collections across 38 countries. His murals grace every airport in Kerala, blending heritage with modern public spaces.

A Life Dedicated to Mural Art

Dr. Thuruthil holds India’s first Ph.D. in mural painting, has authored a textbook on the subject, and has led the Mural Painting Department at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady, for 27 years. As Director of the Kerala Mural Heritage Conservation Centre, he has restored ancient murals in over a dozen temples, including the famed Padmanabhaswamy Temple. He has received numerous national and state awards and fellowships.

Almost three decades ago, he turned his home into Kerala’s first residential art gallery—an act of devotion that brought mural art closer to people, making it both personal and accessible.

Reimagining the Mural Form

Though rooted in traditional temple art, Dr. Thuruthil revolutionized the mural format by adapting it to canvas. This evolution expanded its reach into hotels, airports, corporate spaces, and homes, while his themes began to reflect deeper emotional and social undertones.

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Iconic Series and Signature Works

His most acclaimed works include:

  • "Chayamukhi": A series of over 500 pieces exploring nostalgia, femininity, and longing—collected by names like the Tata Group, Union Bank, and TVS.
  • "Sri Chakra Kundalini": A spiritual series inspired by tantric philosophy and Kerala’s color traditions.
  • "Lady with Bird": 250 charcoal works with poetic stillness, often adorning hotel suites.
  • "Yakshi": A visual ode to feminine divinity in 85 expressive paintings.
  • "Vastraapaharanam": A 6x4 ft reimagining of Krishna and the gopis, focused on purity and beauty.
  • "Three Girls": A tender portrayal of childhood, beloved for its emotional intimacy.
  • "Radhika": A 12x4 ft mural capturing Radha’s longing, housed in Hotel Royal Resoi, Mumbai.

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Monumental Projects and Conservation

Dr. Saju’s commitment extends beyond canvas. He led the restoration of several historic temples and completed massive mural works, including:

  • A 140-ft-long mural narrating the Mughal dynasty
  • A 140-ft Ramayana mural in Kerala style
  • The world’s largest Vishnumurti Theyyam mural (5,000+ sq. ft) at Kannur International Airport
  • A 70-ft mural at Cochin Airport portraying Kerala’s cultural richness

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A Living Legacy

With nearly 2,000 students trained, Dr. Thuruthil’s legacy is not just in his art but in his role as a mentor and movement leader. His works echo a timeless beauty—free from protest or anger, filled instead with grace, love, and reflection.

In a world rushing forward, Dr. Saju stands still—his brush rooted in tradition, his vision forever evolving. Through his silent dedication, he has given mural art a powerful voice, ensuring that Kerala’s visual heritage continues to thrive on a global canvas.

For collaborations or inquiries, please feel free to get in touch via www.sajuthuruthil.com.

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