Latest news with #Aria
Sydney Morning Herald
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Sydney Morning Herald
Could this be the new world's best business class? A resounding yes
The seat Standing ovation, gold medal, this cloud-like flat bed with quilted topper and fluffy 400-thread-count duvet is a sky cocoon. There are 45 Aria Suites in a 1-2-1, herringbone pattern divided between a forward and rear cabin and three dedicated bathrooms. The seats themselves are 21 inches (53.3 centimetres) wide, with a pitch of 43 inches (109.2 centimetres), and 75 inches (190.5 centimetres) long when flat. Every whisker of space is working hard; an armrest flattens, widening the bed at the shoulder, the foot well accommodates knees-bent side sleepers, and a shoulder-high sliding door provides privacy. Leather-clad headrests and oyster hues add to the premium hotel feel. Entertainment + tech Woah, now that's a screen, 24 inches (60.96 centimetres) of 4K ultra-high-definition awesomeness. There's even a dedicated 4K movie category and I go into a short-list frenzy, covering all bases with the realistic bloodbath of Gladiator II and more sedate Wilding with phenomenal macro nature images. There's Bluetooth for personal earphones, an in-table phone charger (the USB-A and USB-C charging ports are faster) and I develop a design crush on the innovative inbuilt control panel and screen app for checking lavatory status. Micro details like the light diffuser (but why no spot lamp for reading?) and the cubby's non-slip pad for potentially sliding items whisper quiet luxury. Service A passing staff member responds to a seat belt adjustment request with 'I'll be right back!' and disappears into the void. I press the call button to un-Japanese the TV language and end up waving at a crew member like I'm hailing a taxi. In the witching hours, I do a second call button test (for a hot chocolate) and a crew member appears within milliseconds – a more accurate depiction of the engaging and professional crew's famous standards. The full cabin of first-time Aria guests unfamiliar with the suites (it's also most of the crew's first Aria flight, one confides, making me immediately empathetic), means initially the five crew are simply run off their feet with questions. Cathay Pacific, do your exceptional staff a favour and add a sixth member until Aria-frenzy settles. Food Food is a highlight – a prawn amuse bouche is followed by a silky zucchini soup with deliciously crunchy croutons and tender braised chicken with mushrooms and bamboo shoots in oyster sauce. Sustainability Cathay Pacific aims for zero carbon emissions by 2050 and has been a pioneer of sustainable aviation fuel, co-initiating the Hong Kong Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition. One more thing The business class galley features artwork, a mindscape by Hong Kong artist Victor Wong (of the Gallery in the Skies program), an unexpected cultural nod. The price Loading Return business class tickets (all business cabins are priced the same, including those with Aria Suites) from London to Sydney via Hong Kong are from $9700 The verdict Could this be the best business class in the skies? A resounding yes. Famed for its design savvy legacy, Cathay has knocked the ball out of the stratosphere with thoughtful technology and style, deservedly the winner of best new business class at TheDesignAir Awards. The last airline to sport such innovation was the Finnair business seat, but the bonuses of privacy doors and exemplary staff in the air and in the stellar lounges make Cathay Pacific the one to beat.
The Age
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Age
Could this be the new world's best business class? A resounding yes
The seat Standing ovation, gold medal, this cloud-like flat bed with quilted topper and fluffy 400-thread-count duvet is a sky cocoon. There are 45 Aria Suites in a 1-2-1, herringbone pattern divided between a forward and rear cabin and three dedicated bathrooms. The seats themselves are 21 inches (53.3 centimetres) wide, with a pitch of 43 inches (109.2 centimetres), and 75 inches (190.5 centimetres) long when flat. Every whisker of space is working hard; an armrest flattens, widening the bed at the shoulder, the foot well accommodates knees-bent side sleepers, and a shoulder-high sliding door provides privacy. Leather-clad headrests and oyster hues add to the premium hotel feel. Entertainment + tech Woah, now that's a screen, 24 inches (60.96 centimetres) of 4K ultra-high-definition awesomeness. There's even a dedicated 4K movie category and I go into a short-list frenzy, covering all bases with the realistic bloodbath of Gladiator II and more sedate Wilding with phenomenal macro nature images. There's Bluetooth for personal earphones, an in-table phone charger (the USB-A and USB-C charging ports are faster) and I develop a design crush on the innovative inbuilt control panel and screen app for checking lavatory status. Micro details like the light diffuser (but why no spot lamp for reading?) and the cubby's non-slip pad for potentially sliding items whisper quiet luxury. Service A passing staff member responds to a seat belt adjustment request with 'I'll be right back!' and disappears into the void. I press the call button to un-Japanese the TV language and end up waving at a crew member like I'm hailing a taxi. In the witching hours, I do a second call button test (for a hot chocolate) and a crew member appears within milliseconds – a more accurate depiction of the engaging and professional crew's famous standards. The full cabin of first-time Aria guests unfamiliar with the suites (it's also most of the crew's first Aria flight, one confides, making me immediately empathetic), means initially the five crew are simply run off their feet with questions. Cathay Pacific, do your exceptional staff a favour and add a sixth member until Aria-frenzy settles. Food Food is a highlight – a prawn amuse bouche is followed by a silky zucchini soup with deliciously crunchy croutons and tender braised chicken with mushrooms and bamboo shoots in oyster sauce. Sustainability Cathay Pacific aims for zero carbon emissions by 2050 and has been a pioneer of sustainable aviation fuel, co-initiating the Hong Kong Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition. One more thing The business class galley features artwork, a mindscape by Hong Kong artist Victor Wong (of the Gallery in the Skies program), an unexpected cultural nod. The price Loading Return business class tickets (all business cabins are priced the same, including those with Aria Suites) from London to Sydney via Hong Kong are from $9700 The verdict Could this be the best business class in the skies? A resounding yes. Famed for its design savvy legacy, Cathay has knocked the ball out of the stratosphere with thoughtful technology and style, deservedly the winner of best new business class at TheDesignAir Awards. The last airline to sport such innovation was the Finnair business seat, but the bonuses of privacy doors and exemplary staff in the air and in the stellar lounges make Cathay Pacific the one to beat.
News18
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- News18
India's Love Affair with Chandeliers: From Haveli Glamour to Modern Homes
Last Updated: Chandeliers in India are no longer just lighting fixtures, they're timeless storytellers that blend heritage with modern elegance. Once a hallmark of regal havelis and grand palaces, chandeliers have gracefully transcended time and trends to become a defining element in modern Indian home décor. From ornate crystal creations dripping with vintage opulence to sleek, minimalist pieces that accentuate contemporary spaces, the evolution of chandeliers in India tells a story of nostalgia, innovation, and enduring beauty. 'Chandeliers have long been icons of class – from gracing the high ceilings of ancient royal havelis to anchoring the ambience of modern interiors, these showstoppers have never gone out of style," says Ashok Viswanathan, Senior VP, Lighting, TISVA. 'What makes their journey fascinating is not just their endurance, but their evolution." Indeed, what was once reserved for grand drawing rooms and banquet halls is now finding pride of place in urban apartments, bedrooms, and even home offices. This shift is reflective of a larger design movement—one that blends heritage sensibilities with modern aesthetics. According to Viswanathan, chandeliers today 'are no longer just ornate fixtures of the past, but expressive design statements that reflect changing lifestyles and personal aesthetics." advetisement In this renaissance of lighting, variety and versatility have become central. Indian consumers are now embracing everything from elaborate, multi-tiered crystal chandeliers that echo bygone eras to fluid, sculptural forms crafted in matte gold and smoked glass that speak to contemporary tastes. 'Designs like the Aria from SLAMP-ITALY, created by Zaha Hadid, bring graceful movement and architectural flair, while CLOVEL from TISVA, handcrafted using authentic Bohemian crystal glass from Spain, merges old-world charm with avant-garde sensibility," he explains. It's not just about looks anymore—today's chandeliers are smarter, more adaptable, and technologically advanced. With dimmable, tunable LEDs and precise colour consistency ensured by SDCM calibration, modern chandeliers offer both aesthetic and functional brilliance. 'They're as smart as they are stunning," emphasizes Viswanathan. 'Whether in a curated living room or an intimate bedroom, they create mood, rhythm, and visual texture." Complementing this technical and design-driven perspective is a more emotional, almost poetic take on India's continued fascination with chandeliers. Prateek Singh of The Black Steel captures the sentiment perfectly, 'India's love for chandeliers is like a cozy embrace from the past, lighting up homes with a touch of magic. They're not just lights, they're the heart of a room." In Indian culture, lighting has always held symbolic significance marking celebrations, invoking warmth, and bringing people together. Chandeliers, with their cascading shimmer and nostalgic grandeur, add that ineffable something to a space. 'For Indians everywhere, chandeliers scream family, festivity, and flair," says Singh. 'Picture a lively wedding or a quiet dinner; they bring that extra glow." More than just decorative accents, chandeliers have become memory-makers. They are often the centerpiece around which special moments unfold, from festive gatherings to quiet evenings. 'Chandeliers weave our stories, our passion for beauty, our knack for making spaces sing," Singh reflects. 'They're not just décor; they're memories in the making, casting a warm, inviting light that feels like home." In today's design landscape, where every element is carefully chosen to reflect personal identity and aesthetic, chandeliers offer a rare blend of tradition and transformation. Whether it's the sculptural sophistication of a contemporary masterpiece or the intricate sparkle of a classic crystal design, the emotional pull remains timeless. Advertisement top videos View All As Viswanathan sums it up, 'Above all, what remains unchanged is their emotional pull – a chandelier still has the power to transform a space, it draws the eye, stirs nostalgia, and often becomes the soul of the room. It's not just about lighting—it's about stirring the soul to create memories in the right atmosphere, and a connection to something enduring yet ever evolving." In India, where past and present often coexist in harmony, chandeliers continue to cast their spell—illuminating not just rooms, but stories, traditions, and the evolving language of beauty. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Watch CNN-News18 here. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : cnn-news18 decor Decor ideas home decor Home decor ideas home decor tips latest news lifestyle news18 Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 02, 2025, 10:52 IST News lifestyle India's Love Affair with Chandeliers: From Haveli Glamour to Modern Homes
Korea Herald
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Promotions and packages
Grand Josun Jeju hosts Thai food-themed buffet with TukTuk Noodle Thai Grand Josun Jeju will host a Thai cuisine-themed buffet event in collaboration with Thai dining brand TukTuk Noodle Thai from June 6 to 8. The hotel's buffet restaurant, Aria, will serve exclusive Thai-inspired dishes using local ingredients from Jeju Island, including yellow crab curry, black sole and citrus salad and Thai mango bingsu. A highlight includes a hands-on cooking class led by a Thai chef, featuring authentic dishes like yam woon sen and nam jim talay. The class runs on June 6 and 7 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Priced at 190,000 won per person, the package includes the cooking class, dinner at Aria, one bottle of rose Champagne and a gift set of Jeju Island's signature omegi rice cake brownies. Kensington Resort Seorak Beach launches Goseong Healing Bus Tour Kensington Resort Seorak Beach launched the Goseong Healing Bus Tour, a curated local travel program tailored to active seniors in their 50s and 60s. Running June 12 and 19, the tour highlights Goseong, Gangwon Province. This is the second local bus tour by Kensington Hotels & Resorts, following its popular spring cherry blossom tour in Namwon, North Jeolla Province. The package includes a one-night stay, breakfast and an ocean-view barbecue dinner for two to four people, round-trip chartered bus from Seoul, guided tours to the Goseong Lavender Festival and key sites, and professional photo service. Prices start at 399,900 won for two. Guests also receive spa access and 10,000 won resort vouchers. Maison Glad Jeju launches summer 'Glad Poolcation Package' Maison Glad Jeju is offering its seasonal Glad Poolcation Package from June 1 to Sept. 30. The package includes a one-night stay, two adult passes to the outdoor The Patio Pool and a Glad-branded L-tube. Guests staying in June or September receive a voucher for two draft beers at the poolside bar, while July and August stays include two-hour sunbed access with drinks. Rates start at 146,000 won for a standard room. The resort's outdoor pool features both a family-friendly area and an adults-only infinity pool, with cabanas and jacuzzis available. Through June 8, guests can join an Instagram event to win a lunch buffet at on-site restaurant Samdajeong by commenting their summer plans in emoji. Grand Hyatt Seoul hosts 5-day Michelin chef collaboration with Grand Hyatt Hong Kong Grand Hyatt Seoul will host a five-day culinary collaboration from June 9 to 13 with Michelin-acclaimed chef Oscar Lau of Teppanroom, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong's signature teppanyaki restaurant. Lau will join chef Park Jun of Seoul's Teppan to present exclusive 12-seat lunch and dinner services each day. Guests will enjoy an intimate, open-kitchen experience featuring creative teppanyaki made with seasonal Korean ingredients and chef Lau's modern Hong Kong flair. The lunch course is priced at 190,000 won per person, with dinner at 290,000 won. Reservations are required. Andaz Seoul Gangnam launches 'Summer Collection Bingsu' with Trudon Andaz Seoul Gangnam teamed up with French luxury fragrance house Trudon to unveil its limited-edition "Summer Collection Bingsu," inspired by the brand's latest capsule, Lost in a Moment. The dessert will be available from June 1 to 30. Crafted by executive pastry chef Jang Gu-hyun, the bingsu features creamy European milk ice topped with raspberry compote, dark chocolate cream and condensed milk. Salted caramel ice cream, hazelnut crumble and chocolate sauce add texture, while pink bark chocolate and Mont Blanc-inspired decor reflect Trudon's signature aesthetic. Priced at 74,000 won, the dessert includes two limited-edition scented cameos — available to the first 150 guests. yoohong@
Pink Villa
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
EXCLUSIVE - X:IN reveals what they want from Defend Myself album release, their fantasy picks, and more
Among the many releases in the month of May, we're here to introduce you to an underrated piece. Girl group X:IN has dropped new music! Just over 2 years from its debut, the group has had a steep climb, with previous release, KEEPING THE FIRE, making waves in India for their youngest hails from the country. This time, the group returns with Defend Myself, a four-track record running over diverse music in which the teammates have participated in writing. An amalgam of their thoughts and wishes, the songs allow the singers to express their own colors directly. And direct they were. Member Aria tells us how she wants everyone to be unapologetically themselves. Why? The 22-year-old thinks that despite what goes around in the world, she wants everyone to express themselves freely and also protect their peace. Speaking with X:IN 2 years later, the girls are now back with a change in lineup and much more centered with their thoughts and concepts. As soon as we begin talking, the members speak about their newly releasing music and how they would describe it. 'Conceptual. Cinematic. Powerful. Emotional." The praise just rolls off their tongues, and the song release proved why. Attention Seeker is much different from their previous releases, and the group hopes it makes the jump to fame! Defend Myself marks a significant shift in how X:IN pursues their music. What inspired you to take on this more introspective and more emotionally raw approach? Nizz: I think it's because it's an album that expresses our emotions, our feelings, and our experiences through songs, so our real feelings were the biggest inspiration for this change. In Attention Seeker, there's talk about the push and pull of fame. Who among the members has a knack for seeking attention, whether it's intentionally or not? Aria: So I would say that Hannah is a walking meme. She could just be sitting still and demand attention because every time she moves or she says, like, mutters out a word, it's very funny. It's hilarious. She's unintentionally funny. I think that's a talent she has. Nova: For me, it's Nizz. There is such a thing in South Korea as aegyo. It's like acting cute and like being very childlike, but in a good way. I'm a person who doesn't have aegyo at all. So for me, it's very interesting to see how she's so adorable. So everybody who sees her doing aegyo, finds her so adorable and is very impressed by her. She's very naturally drawing attention to herself. Fame is the center of today's world. Everybody is trying hard to become famous. How do you, as K-pop artists, tackle that? Esha: In a way, our goal is to become famous as K-pop idols and to let more people know about us. But personally, I think there are a lot of things that we can miss if we just stick to our fame. So if we work hard and do our best, I think we'll be able to catch up someday. So your song, SABAHA, explores mystical vibes, and there are fantasy elements to it. Are any of the members fans of the fantasy genre in itself? And if so, what are your go-to films in that genre that you'd check out? Nova: I'm a huge fan of the Harry Potter series. I'm obsessed. I've watched it a lot of times and read all the books. And recently, I finished watching Game of Thrones. I really enjoy this kind of genre in general. Aria: I really like fantasy, and I find myself always seeking out fantasy genre dramas or films. And through this album, I feel like I was able to live out my fantasy because of the concepts of each song. Hannah: I like to watch the latest movies on Netflix. If there's a movie that looks scary or has a lot of action scenes, I watch it. My all-time favorite fantasy show is Stranger Things. Bitter Love talks about a very sensitive topic. As people who are very young in this music industry, how do you undertake this concept? Do you have any past experiences, be it in whatever type of love, that inspired this for you? Nizz: To be honest, I wrote the lyrics based on a topic that I've never experienced before. So it's definitely not my experience. I don't want people to experience something like this, because it would be too sad. I wrote the lyrics while imagining what I would feel if I did this topic. It all came out of the imagination. Like Esha has mentioned, what are your thoughts about growing up in this complex and competitive world as K-pop idols? Nova: Even though we work, our job is being an idol, right? However, besides that, we also have our regular lives. We have our friends and our family with whom we communicate often. So we live our normal life like normal people. Being on stage is a very big part of our lives as well. So I feel like actually all of us are very different on stage and behind the stage. But in a good way because we're very close all together. It's not just a job for us. It's a big part of our lifestyle. But we try to balance both of these together. You've been to India now, and obviously Aria is from India. What do the members think of the country now that they've visited and the next time you come here what do you want to try travel-wise or food-wise? Esha: I was going to ask, when we went to India last time, we ate at a hotel, it was like fried rice with chicken. (Aria: Biryani) It was a room service, so it felt like a preview, so I want to try a proper biryani because Aria boasted that it was good. When are you coming to India to try it next? Aria: I keep asking myself that, too. I don't think there are any plans as of now. Nothing that I know of, but hopefully soon I'll be able to visit all over the country with the girls and explore all those places that I haven't even been to yet. Nova: I really want to visit Kerala because Aria has been talking about it a lot. They have houseboats and backwaters, and you can just enjoy all these beautiful views. I was born in Russia, so the nature there is very different. I've been dreaming about living in such a country with these crazy palm trees and water everywhere. Nizz: India is very friendly, and I want to try authentic butter chicken. What is your message for your fans, and what are your plans to meet them again this year? Esha: We are making a comeback with our 3rd mini album Defend Myself, and of course, we have a lot of activities in South Korea. We don't have a specific plan yet, but if possible, we want to go to India to perform again. Our fans have been waiting for us for a long time, so we are very thankful. I hope you like our comeback.
