UNESCO Honors Bengaluru Airport with Prestigious Interior Prize

UNESCO Honors Bengaluru Airport with Prestigious Interior Prize

By Author

Published on January 27, 2024

Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport has soared to new heights of recognition. UNESCO's Prix Versailles 2023 has honoured the airport with the 'World Special Prize for an Interior 2023', crowning it as the 'World's Most Beautiful Airport'. This prestigious award shines a spotlight on the airport’s exceptional design and architectural brilliance.

A Symbol of Architectural Excellence

Under the leadership of a judging panel chaired by famed fashion designer Elie Saab, the Prix Versailles 2023 celebrated the best in global architecture. Kempegowda International Airport stood out as the only Indian airport to clinch this esteemed accolade, marking a significant milestone in India's architectural achievements.

image

Prime Minister Modi Lauds the Achievement

The achievement has drawn praise from the highest echelons of Indian leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the people of Bengaluru and the team behind Terminal 2 of the airport. In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), he shared his admiration for the terminal, highlighting it as a gateway to Bengaluru’s vibrant culture and a testament to India’s prowess in blending world-class infrastructure with artistic elegance.

Not Just Beauty, But Also Punctuality

Kempegowda International Airport's accolades don't end with its beauty. It has also earned the title of the world's most punctual airport. With an impressive on-time departure rate, the airport has consistently demonstrated efficiency and reliability, enhancing the travel experience for passengers.

image

The airport, operated by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), has not only excelled in aesthetics and punctuality but also in expanding its services. The inauguration of international operations at Terminal 2 marks a new chapter in Bengaluru’s global connectivity, further elevating the airport's status in the international community.

A Feather in Bengaluru's Cap

Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport, with its blend of beauty, efficiency, and world-class services, has rightfully earned its place as a jewel in the crown of global aviation. This recognition is a tribute to the city's commitment to excellence and a beacon of India's growing influence in global infrastructure and design.


Air India Express to Launch Direct Flights from Bengaluru to Kathmandu from June 2025

Air India Express to Launch Direct Flights from Bengaluru to Kathmandu from June 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 1, 2025

Air India Express has announced the launch of direct flights between Bengaluru and Kathmandu, starting 1 June 2025, marking the airline’s official entry into Nepal. With this route, Kathmandu becomes the 55th destination in the carrier’s expanding network, furthering its reach in South Asia.

The launch establishes a direct air corridor between South India and Nepal’s capital, enhancing cultural and economic connections between the two nations. With this move, travellers from 20 Indian cities and two international hubs, Abu Dhabi and Dammam can now access Kathmandu via convenient one-stop connections through Bengaluru.

Introductory fares for the new route start at INR 8,000 for Xpress Lite and INR 8,500 for Xpress Value, available through the airline’s official website and booking platforms.

Kathmandu, known for its spiritual landmarks, scenic landscapes, and nearby destinations like Lumbini and Pokhara, appeals to both religious and adventure travellers. The new connection offers smoother travel for leisure tourists from India, supporting the rise of short-haul international tourism.

Aloke Singh, Managing Director, Air India Express, stated, “We are delighted to expand our footprint to Nepal, our neighbouring country in the subcontinent, further strengthening the deep-rooted cultural and economic ties we share. This new route brings people, tales, and traditions closer, while reinforcing our vision of making travel more accessible and meaningful.”

Air India Express currently operates over 450 weekly flights from Bengaluru, connecting to 31 Indian cities and three international destinations. With the recent addition of Bangkok and Phuket, the airline continues to focus on short-haul international leisure destinations, expanding its presence across Asia.


Ras Al Khaimah Launches Tourism Excellence Awards to Honour Hospitality Trailblazers

Ras Al Khaimah Launches Tourism Excellence Awards to Honour Hospitality Trailblazers

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 31, 2025

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) made a landmark move in the Emirate’s hospitality journey with the debut of the Tourism Excellence Awards, a prestigious platform honouring those transforming Ras Al Khaimah into one of the world’s fastest-growing travel destinations.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Public Services Department in Ras Al Khaimah, the inaugural ceremony took place on 21 May 2025 at the stunning Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island.

The awards celebrated outstanding performers across six dynamic categories:

  • Corporate Hospitality Excellence

  • Individual Innovation

  • Culinary Artistry

  • Hospitality Leadership

  • Community Involvement

  • Environmental Responsibility

This comprehensive recognition structure reflects RAKTDA’s intent to spotlight excellence at every level—be it individuals, teams, or companies.

Speaking at the event, Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA, said,

“The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Excellence Awards mark an important milestone in our journey to become a leading global destination. By recognising those who go above and beyond to deliver unforgettable experiences, we are not only celebrating their achievements, but fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and community engagement.”

More than just accolades, the awards align with RAKTDA’s wider mission of building a sustainable, inclusive, and culturally rich tourism ecosystem. They aim to enhance traveller confidence, elevate service standards, foster innovation, and drive collaboration between businesses, local communities, and government bodies.

Phillips added,

“These awards mark a new era of recognition and inspiration in Ras Al Khaimah’s exceptional tourism story—one driven by shared ambition, pride in local achievement, and a commitment to excellence at every touchpoint.”

For more information and interview requests, reach out to:
Nidhie Raj Singh | +91 9999 266134 | nidhies@branditindia.com
Priyanshi Jain | +91 8527217660 | priyanshij@branditindia.com

To explore Ras Al Khaimah’s journey and initiatives, visit www.visitrasalkhaimah.com
Follow: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Hashtag: #VisitRasAlKhaimah


Vietnam Golf Coast Evokes a Sense of Place This Summer

Vietnam Golf Coast Evokes a Sense of Place This Summer

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 28, 2025

The Vietnam Golf Coast is calling travellers this summer with its unique blend of lush landscapes, cultural immersion, and exclusive seasonal packages. Stretching across Central Vietnam, this renowned golf destination is offering more than just top-tier fairways—it’s inviting players to experience the soul of Vietnam through its rice paddies, highland mists, seaside breezes, and traditional flavours.

At Laguna Golf Lang Co, harvest season paints the course with shades of gold as rice paddies reach their peak through May and June. “This is one of the most enchanting times to play,” says Stephen Banks, Director of Golf, noting how the course deeply reflects Vietnam’s natural rhythms and traditions. This summer, golfers can enjoy curated offers like the Golf & Spa package, the time-friendly Golf Express deal, and the Golden Rice Flash Sales that celebrate the vibrant harvest.

image

Nestled in the cool highlands beyond Da Nang, Ba Na Hills Golf Club offers a completely different ambiance. Surrounded by pine trees and misty mountain air, it provides a tranquil escape from the coastal heat. “Every time I walk this course, I’m reminded why golf in the mountains feels different – calmer, clearer, and more connected,” shares General Manager Simon Mees. The summer lineup includes a Twi-Night Golf package, with weekday slots available until 2:15 PM (3:00 PM on Wednesdays) at just VND2,600,000 (USD100), complete with a refreshing beer. The Night Golf experience, starting at VND2,500,000 per player, adds local flair with craft beer and Ba Na sausage.

Closer to the coast, Montgomerie Links offers the classic charm of seaside golf, where the sea breeze dances through casuarina pines and fishing boats drift along the horizon. “Montgomerie Links captures the spirit of true links golf, but with a distinct Vietnamese character,” says Club Manager Le Vo Hoang Van. Their Stay & Play package is available until September 30, 2025, starting from just VND4,770,000, offering unbeatable value by the beach.

image

What sets the Vietnam Golf Coast apart is its ability to fuse sport with culture. From caddies in traditional non la hats to clubhouses serving iconic Vietnamese dishes like ca phe sua da, banh mi, pho, and bun thit nuong, every detail adds to the experience.

Off the greens, golfers are spoilt for choice. Laguna Golf Lang Co is close to the historic city of Hue, while Ba Na Hills and Montgomerie Links are a quick drive from Da Nang’s beaches, fireworks festival, and buzzing food scene. And of course, the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, with its lantern-lit streets and timeless charm, is always worth a visit.

For golfers seeking more than just a round, this summer on the Vietnam Golf Coast promises a sense of place, pace, and unforgettable play.

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.