Western Sydney Convention Centre Rises as a Global Event Destination

Western Sydney Convention Centre Rises as a Global Event Destination

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 8, 2025

As Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) prepares for its grand debut in 2026, the region is already setting the stage to welcome the world—with the Western Sydney Convention Centre (WSCC) at the forefront of this transformation.

Located just 21 minutes from the upcoming airport and surrounded by the energy of the Panthers Precinct, the WSCC has evolved into a complete, all-in-one destination for global conferences and large-scale gatherings. With over 4,000 sqm of flexible space, the venue is perfectly equipped to host everything from intimate meetings to exhibitions that welcome up to 10,000 guests.

Seamlessly connected to the luxurious five-star Pullman Sydney Penrith, the WSCC makes event planning easier by offering state-of-the-art facilities, flexible configurations, breakout spaces, and stunning outdoor terraces. With over 1,600 parking spaces, it’s ready to handle events of any scale.

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The adjoining Pullman hotel adds a touch of indulgence, offering 152 stylish rooms inspired by the serene Nepean River. With advanced in-room sleep therapy, a high-end fitness centre, and standout dining options like Marcel Bar & Bistro and the vibrant Tori bar, guests can enjoy a stay that matches the calibre of the events.

But what truly sets this destination apart is the variety of experiences packed within the Panthers Precinct. With 17 restaurants and bars—including favourites like Squires Terrace Bar and Alexander’s—plus access to the iconic Evan Theatre and exciting attractions like iFLY indoor skydiving, Aqua Golf, and Cables Wake Park, the precinct blends business with leisure in style.

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At the heart of its culinary offering is Executive Chef John Pugliano, whose global experience—from Nobu in London to Eaton Hotel in Hong Kong—brings flair to every plate. His interactive cooking stations and customised menus ensure that food becomes part of the experience, not just a feature.

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WSCC is built for more than just space—it's about creating unforgettable moments. With advanced AV tech, high-speed Wi-Fi, vehicle access for exhibitions, and dedicated planning support, it’s a venue designed to meet every event need with ease.

"As we gear up for the WSI launch and look towards the international market, aligning WSCC with the Panthers Precinct as a one-stop destination was a natural step," said General Manager Charles Young. "We’ve built more than a venue—we’ve created a world-class experience that brings together entertainment, fine dining, and flexible spaces in one unbeatable location.”

With the majestic Blue Mountains in its backdrop and the world soon flying in next door, WSCC is positioning itself as the future of events in Australia.


adidas and Saudia Launch ‘Made to Fly’ Travel Pack

adidas and Saudia Launch ‘Made to Fly’ Travel Pack

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 6, 2026

adidas and Saudia have come together to introduce the ‘Made to Fly’ travel pack, marking a first-of-its-kind collaboration that brings sportswear and aviation into one space. The collection officially launched in retail on April 20 across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Morocco.

Saudia, as the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has played an important role in shaping the region’s travel experience over the years. By partnering with adidas, the collaboration aims to connect travel with modern sportswear, while appealing to a younger generation that sees travel as part of their lifestyle.

The collection is built on adidas’ SOFT LUX line, which focuses on clean design, premium materials and a refined look. With this collaboration, the classic tracksuit is reimagined as a modern travel essential, designed to suit both comfort and style.

Subtle design elements inspired by aviation and Saudi culture are woven into the collection, giving it a distinct identity while keeping the overall look minimal and contemporary. The idea is to create pieces that feel easy to wear, yet polished enough for different travel moments.

The garments are crafted using peached spacer fabric with modal and enhanced with a liquid cotton treatment, giving them a smooth texture and a soft feel. This makes the collection suitable for long journeys, airport transitions and everyday wear.

Speaking about the collaboration, Bilal Fares, SVP and GM, adidas EMC, said, “This collaboration allowed us to reinterpret one of adidas’ most refined sportswear lines through the lens of travel, alongside a brand that has shaped the Kingdom’s travel culture for generations. By bringing together Saudia’s connection to movement and adidas’ sportswear heritage, we created a collection that feels elevated, effortless and relevant to today’s consumer.”

The ‘Made to Fly’ pack blends elements of fashion, travel and movement, positioning the tracksuit as a modern-day travel uniform. It reflects how today’s travellers see their journeys not just as a way to move, but also as an expression of identity and personal style.

Khaled Tash, Saudia Group Chief Marketing Officer, added, “For 80 years, Saudia has connected the Kingdom to the world. Today, travel is no longer defined only by destinations, but by identity, culture, and self-expression. Building on our 2023 rebrand, which marked a new chapter in our global journey, we are expanding our brand presence beyond aviation into culture and lifestyle. Our collaboration with adidas brings these elements together, transforming movement into a statement of modern Saudi ambition and capturing the confidence and creativity shaping the Kingdom today.”

The adidas x Saudia ‘Made to Fly’ travel pack is available at select adidas stores across the region and online, offering a fresh take on travel-ready fashion.


Raffles Hotel Le Royal Introduces ‘Mindy’s’ Pop-Up Speakeasy in Phnom Penh

Raffles Hotel Le Royal Introduces ‘Mindy’s’ Pop-Up Speakeasy in Phnom Penh

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 5, 2026

Raffles Hotel Le Royal has introduced ‘Mindy’s’, a pop-up speakeasy that brings the charm of 1920s-1940s New York to Phnom Penh. Known for its long-standing legacy, the 97-year-old luxury hotel is adding a fresh layer to its offerings with this immersive nightlife experience.

Set to run from May 7 to 31, Mindy’s will be open from Thursday to Sunday between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. The concept draws inspiration from the golden era of speakeasies, blending vintage style with a modern touch.

Hidden behind an unmarked door, the space recreates the quiet and exclusive feel of classic speakeasies. Guests are welcomed into an intimate setting with dim lighting, vintage décor, and subtle gaming elements. The experience is brought to life by engaging bartenders, while the sound of jazz and swing music adds to the overall mood. A dedicated cigar lounge further enhances the setting, offering a refined evening for visitors.

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, General Manager Dagmar Lyons said, “We are thrilled to bring the vibrant energy and timeless glamour of old New York to Raffles Hotel Le Royal with Mindy’s. This immersive pop-up perfectly embodies Raffles’ spirit of storytelling and exceptional experiences, offering our guests and Phnom Penh’s discerning crowd a truly unique evening they won’t forget.”

The pop-up also features a specially curated cocktail menu that reflects the theme. Signature creations include Sky Masterson’s Lucky Flight made with bourbon, honey syrup, lemon and bitters, finished with a flaming orange peel, Miss Adelaide’s Lament with London Dry Gin, raspberry liqueur, lemon and cocktail foamer, and Nathan Detroit’s Hustle combining rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters and cherry candy. For non-alcoholic options, The Reformer offers a refreshing mix of ginger beer, lime and mint.

Open to both hotel guests and visitors, Mindy’s aims to offer a memorable evening that blends heritage, music and crafted drinks. With its limited run and unique concept, reservations are recommended for those looking to experience this exclusive pop-up.


Meliá Pattaya Hotel Introduces ‘Dim Sum Unlimited Brunch’ at Yitong

Meliá Pattaya Hotel Introduces ‘Dim Sum Unlimited Brunch’ at Yitong

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 5, 2026

Meliá Pattaya Hotel has introduced a new ‘Dim Sum Unlimited Brunch’ at its Yitong Chinese Restaurant & Sky, bringing a fresh dining experience for guests looking to enjoy a relaxed weekend meal.

Set on the 12th floor in the heart of Pattaya, the rooftop restaurant and bar hosts this brunch every Saturday and Sunday from noon until 3pm. The offering includes an all-you-can-enjoy spread of steamed and deep-fried dim sum, along with soups, rice and noodle dishes, and desserts.

The menu features a wide mix of classic dim sum favourites. Guests can enjoy steamed options like Ha Gaw, shrimp balls, rice rolls with shrimp, pork shumai, Xiao Long Bao, pork wontons with Mala spicy sauce, and a variety of buns including Cantonese pork, BBQ pork and Chinese mushroom. The deep-fried selection includes taro and roasted pork dumplings, shrimps wrapped in tofu sheet, pan-fried turnip cake, vegetable spring rolls and green chives dumplings.

Alongside dim sum, the brunch also offers comforting dishes such as double-boiled pork ribs soup, ‘Yitong’ fried rice with crab meat, and Tang Yuan glutinous rice balls served in caramelised ginger broth, adding a balanced mix to the overall experience.

Sharing the idea behind the concept, Peter Laird, Director of Food and Beverage at Meliá Pattaya Hotel, said,

“Translating to ‘touch of the heart’, dim sum represents a Cantonese tradition of sharing small, delicate dishes and tea, sometimes described as a ‘team sport’ where everyone shares. At Yitong, we’ve made it a team sport of serving a joyous, communal dining experience with an incredible selection of dishes accompanied by a front-row view of Pattaya’s shoreline.”

The dining experience is further enhanced by the restaurant’s design. Guests are welcomed by a striking ribbon-like ceiling installation inspired by calligraphy. The space blends gold and black accents with hints of crimson, symbolising prosperity, while large windows offer sweeping views of Pattaya’s beach and skyline.

The main dining area features soft lighting, earthy tones and natural textures inspired by the landscapes of Chonburi and Northern Thailand, creating a calm and refined setting. The rooftop sky bar adds to the charm with greenery and panoramic views, making it an ideal spot for a weekend outing.

The ‘Dim Sum Unlimited Brunch’ also comes with a special ‘Dine as five and pay for four’ offer, making it a great option for groups looking to enjoy a shared dining experience.

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