JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire, a luxury resort, proudly presents “The Royal Homecoming,” a unique dining series showcasing globally renowned Indian chefs known for their diverse culinary expertise. The inaugural edition will feature Chef Prabir Banerjee of Chaiwala, a modern Indian cuisine restaurant in Hong Kong. From May 17th to 19th, 2024, Chef Prabir will take over the kitchen at Aaleeshan, the award-winning restaurant at JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa. Aaleeshan, celebrated for its North West Frontier Cuisine, has won several accolades, including the title of ‘Best Indian Cuisine,’ underscoring its commitment to quality and authenticity.

Born and raised in India, Chef Prabir Banerjee is acclaimed for his exceptional work at Chaiwala. He has received numerous accolades, including ‘Chef of the Year’ at the Hong Kong Dining Awards 2021: Readers’ Choice. With over 18 years in the culinary world, Chef Prabir specializes in Indian cuisine, inviting patrons on a sensory journey with each plate, showcasing the richness and depth of Indian flavors in a modern, sophisticated setting. His creative ingenuity and culinary skill reflect the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine.

During this exclusive event, Aaleeshan will be transformed into a culinary haven featuring Chef Prabir’s signature dishes. His creations will highlight the exquisite spices characteristic of Indian cuisine. Diners can enjoy a selection of tempting appetizers, including Tuna Chaat and Malabar Scallops. The main course will feature Dakshini Prawns, Lamb Chop Masala, and a soul-satisfying Fish Curry, perfectly paired with aromatic Dum Saffron Rice and a variety of Indian breads. The royal feast will conclude with a delectable Mango Sago Coconut Payasam.

Ronan Fearon, General Manager shared, “We are delighted to host Chef Prabir Banerjee, a true
culinary ambassador of India, for this exclusive Royal Homecoming series at Aaleeshan. His exquisite
repertoire, featuring modern interpretations of regional classics, promises to take our guests on a
delightful exploration of Indian flavours. This showcase is a perfect embodiment of Aaleeshan’s
commitment to presenting diners with exceptional culinary experiences. We are confident that this
exquisite event will excite the taste buds and create lasting memories for our discerning guests.”

This event promises a tantalizing opportunity to explore the rich and diverse flavors of India. Chef Prabir’s expertise, combined with Aaleeshan’s regal ambiance, sets the stage for an extraordinary gastronomic adventure. Nestled in the foothills of the Nandi Hills, with breathtaking panoramic views, this experience will delight your senses. Enjoy a luxurious lunch on May 17th and 18th, or savor an equally delightful dinner amidst the stunning scenery on May 18th and 19th.

Visa’s annual Payments Forum in San Francisco revealed revolutionary digital payment solutions, introducing innovations that transform the future of finance.

In the past five years, payment methods have evolved more than in the previous fifty years. Consumers have adapted to new experiences, from digital commerce integration to the widespread use of tap payments. Today at the Visa Payments Forum in San Francisco, Visa (NYSE: V) introduced groundbreaking products and services that will reshape the future for businesses, merchants, consumers, and financial institutions.

Visa’s Chief Product and Strategy Officer, Jack Forestell, remarked, “The industry is at a crucial juncture—technologies like Gen AI are transforming how we shop and manage finances. We’re launching the next generation of digital-native payment card experiences, introducing new features and innovations for a more customized, convenient, and secure future.”

Visa’s new offerings, set to launch later this year, include:

Visa Flexible Credential
Visa’s research shows over half of cardholders desire access to multiple accounts via a single credential. The Visa Flexible Credential allows one card to switch between payment methods, enabling users to choose between debit, credit, Buy Now Pay Later, or rewards points. Already active in Asia, it will launch with Affirm in the U.S. this summer.

Tap to Everything
With six billion NFC-enabled mobile devices worldwide, tap payments have become a dominant commerce experience. By the end of 2023, Visa’s global tap-to-pay penetration reached 65%, double that of 2019. New mobile tap features include:

• Tap to Pay: Transform any device into a POS device.
• Tap to Confirm: Authenticate identity when shopping online.
• Tap to Add Card: Securely add cards to wallets or apps.
• Tap to P2P: Facilitate person-to-person money transfers.

Visa Payment Passkey Service
Online payment fraud rates are seven times higher than in-person fraud. Visa’s Payment Passkey Service, based on FIDO standards, uses biometrics like facial or fingerprint scans to confirm identity and authorize payments, eliminating passwords and one-time codes for streamlined, secure transactions. Jack Forestell noted, “Our passkeys simplify online payments by confirming identity without disrupting the checkout process, enhancing security and reducing friction globally.”

Click to Pay + Visa Payment Passkey Service
Visa is integrating the Visa Payment Passkey Service with Click to Pay for a seamless, secure checkout experience. In numerous markets, Visa will collaborate with issuers to enable Click to Pay and Visa Payment Passkey Service on new cards, simplifying card details and password entry.

Pay by Bank
Non-card payments lack the experience, security, and protections of card payments. Visa is digitizing account-to-account (A2A) payments with Pay by Bank, providing more payment options, including A2A transfers and credit card payments. Visa’s acquisition of Tink has expanded innovative financial tools across Europe, and now these advancements are coming to the U.S.

Visa Protect for A2A Payments
Visa processes over 200 billion transactions annually, using AI to detect fraud in real time. Collaborating with Real-Time Payments (RTP) networks globally, Visa Protect for A2A Payments leverages AI to reduce fraud. Already effective in Latin America and piloting in the UK, it identifies 60% of previously undetected RTP fraud.

Data Tokens
For a decade, Visa has secured payments by tokenizing card information. Today, 29% of Visa’s transactions are tokenized. Visa’s new data tokens allow consumers to control their data privacy and enhance shopping experiences through AI-powered insights. Consumers can consent to data sharing for personalized offers, revoke access via their banking app, and receive real-time recommendations based on transaction data.

Allegiant Travel Company has announced seasonal nonstop service to 15 destinations from Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport.

The first of these flights, to Knoxville, Tennessee, begins Thursday, with additional routes starting later this month and early next month.

The airline’s latest seasonal expansion offers low-cost travel options on 81 routes in 66 cities, including these new routes from Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport:

• Knoxville, Tennessee via McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) – beginning May 16, 2024
• Peoria, Illinois via General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA) – beginning May 18, 2024
• Springfield/Branson, Missouri via Springfield-Branson Regional Airport (SGF) – beginning May 23, 2024
• Memphis, Tennessee via Memphis International Airport (MEM) – beginning May 24, 2024
• Omaha, Nebraska via Eppley Airfield (OMA) – beginning May 24, 2024
• Tulsa, Oklahoma via Tulsa International Airport (TUL) – beginning May 24, 2024
• Lexington, Kentucky via Blue Grass Airport (LEX) – beginning May 30, 2024
• Evansville, Indiana via Evansville Regional Airport (EVV) – beginning May 31, 2024
• Huntington, West Virginia via Huntington Tri-State Airport (HTS) – beginning May 31, 2024
• Little Rock, Arkansas via Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) – beginning May 31, 2024
• Shreveport, Louisiana via Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) – beginning May 31, 2024
• Asheville, North Carolina via Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) – beginning June 1, 2024
• Clarksburg/Morgantown, West Virginia via North Central West Virginia Airport (CKB) – beginning June 1, 2024
• Des Moines, Iowa via Des Moines International Airport (DSM) – beginning June 1, 2024

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates screening a record number of travelers this summer season.

The summer travel period, as defined by the TSA, starts on Memorial Day weekend and extends through Labor Day.

The busiest travel day is predicted to be Friday, May 24, with nearly three million passengers expected.

Between May 23 and May 29, over 18 million passengers and crew members are anticipated to pass through checkpoints, reflecting a 6.4% increase in volume compared to the same period last year.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, the TSA offers the following tips:

• If traveling with a firearm, pack it unloaded in a hard-sided case in your checked baggage and declare it to the airline during check-in.
• Place liquids in containers smaller than 3.4 ounces in a quart-sized bag within your checked luggage.
• Ensure you have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification.
• For TSA PreCheck members, confirm your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is included in your reservation. Those interested in joining PreCheck can enroll online.
• Plan ahead to allow sufficient time for parking or returning rental cars, taking shuttles if necessary, checking in, dropping off bags, and preparing for security screening.
• For any questions or assistance, contact the TSA by texting 275-872 or calling the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673.

U.S. travel agencies are rejoicing over an unparalleled $9.1 billion in April air ticket sales, marking a milestone and showcasing strong industry growth.

The Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) has unveiled impressive data indicating that U.S. travel agencies achieved air ticket sales totaling $9.1 billion in April 2024. This figure represents a notable 4% increase compared to April 2023 and stands as the highest April sales record since ARC began tracking this data in 2017.

This table summarizes the key metrics for April, including total sales, passenger trips, and their variances both month-over-month and year-over-year.

In addition to the surge in air ticket sales, April also saw a significant rise in ancillary sales, which climbed by 21% year-over-year, reaching $30 million. The number of ancillary transactions experienced an even more dramatic increase, jumping 46% to a total of 535,345 during the same period.

“April domestic demand broke from seasonal norms with a monthly increase in U.S. passenger trips booked,” said Steve Solomon, chief commercial officer at ARC. “As travel agencies navigate the shifting air travel retailing landscape, their value to both business and leisure travelers continues to be on display.”

These record-breaking figures highlight a robust recovery and growth in the travel industry, suggesting a strong demand for air travel and related services among U.S. consumers.

Pan Pacific Orchard unveils Scented Afternoon Tea Reverie at Florette, a sensory masterpiece in collaboration with Maison de L’Asie, promising an unforgettable exploration of taste and scent.

Florette, nestled within Pan Pacific Orchard, introduces an unparalleled experience: the Scented Afternoon Tea Reverie. This sensory escapade, a collaborative masterpiece with Maison de L’Asie, a renowned fragrance house marrying Asian essence with French finesse, epitomizes Pan Pacific’s elegance. Executive Pastry Chef Eunice Low curates a mesmerizing journey inspired by Maison de L’Asie’s fragrances, promising guests an unforgettably immersive exploration of taste and scent.

Divided into three captivating chapters, this experience delves into the rich cultures of Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand. Each segment, meticulously represented on the tea stand, unveils a trilogy of scents intertwined with expertly paired pastries. A bespoke treasure map serves as a guide, leading guests through this aromatic odyssey, where every bite narrates a tale of fragrance and flavor.

Enhancing this voyage are meticulously selected tea accompaniments, elevating the sensory indulgence to new heights. Immerse yourself in a culinary reverie where every sip and bite awaken the senses, crafting a truly enchanting experience that lingers long after the last crumb is savored.

“Crafting this perfume pairing afternoon tea was truly a challenging yet exhilarating
experience,” reflects Executive Pastry Chef Eunice Low. “Our goal was to elevate the entire
afternoon tea experience by venturing into uncharted territory. Each creation translates
complex fragrances into the medium of pastry, capturing the beautiful emotions and
narratives that Maison de L’Asie embodies. This project deeply resonates with my
philosophy of continuously pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. I am excited to
bring our guests along on this innovative culinary journey, showcasing our commitment
to creating unique and memorable experiences.”

“Maison de L’Asie is born from our deep reverence for the artistry and allure of Asian
culture. Our perfume chapters are crafted to take you on a journey encapsulating the
elegance, mystery, and timeless sophistication of the East. When considering our
partnership with Pan Pacific Orchard, we were inspired by the idea of harmonising sensory
experiences. Just as a fragrance can transport us to distant lands and evoke pauses of
reflection, so too can the delicate flavours and aromas of a meticulously crafted culinary
experience. This collaboration invites guests to embark on a journey of sensorial delight
that transcends boundaries.” shares Founder of Maison de L’Asie, Elizabeth Liau.

Embark on a unique sensory voyage with “A Tasting Journey Through Scent” at Florette, hosted by Pan Pacific Orchard in collaboration with Maison de L’Asie. This exquisite experience transports guests through three captivating chapters, each inspired by distinct cultures and curated to tantalize the senses.

Chapter 1 unfolds in Singapore, where pastries infused with nostalgia and self-identity await. MOTHER X LOVE, a choux pastry filled with caramel and chamomile cream, evokes comforting memories, while LOST LOVERS tells a tale of transformation with a sandalwood financier layered with bergamot curd. NANYANG offers an androgynous profile with matcha green tea genoise and citrus cream brûlée.

Chapter 2 whisks guests away to Indonesia, where tropical indulgence reigns. BALI H’AI features pineapple rum compote atop a vanilla chiffon base, while BOIS D’INDONESIE honors temples with pear Chantilly cream and cinnamon apple compote. LES NUITS DE BALI captivates with dark chocolate mousse and orange saffron curd.

In Chapter 3, explore Time in Thailand with scones served alongside housemade jams. BANGKOK 9/9 offers a modern twist with pink peppercorn-infused scones, while LES SOIRS DE SIAM bursts with lime and pink pepper flavors. RIVIÈRE SIAM captures twilight with dandelion blood orange marmalade.

Beyond pastries, guests savor Asian-inspired delights like Smoked Duck and Ripe Mango Sandwiches, Thai-Style Beef Salad Tarts, and Chilli Crab Mantou Sandwiches. Trio of Mushroom Ragout Tartlets tantalize with a medley of mushrooms and fresh thyme mayo.

Priced at $58++ per person, this indulgent experience invites guests to unwind and savor life’s luxuries while enjoying TWG teas or Lavazza coffees. Opt for a tea pairing for an additional $20++ per person, curated by Pryce Tea to complement each chapter’s flavors.

Served on Wedgwood teaware adorned with Brazilian flora and fauna, this elegant affair unfolds daily from 6 May to 31 July at Florette. Guests enjoy 10% off Maison de L’Asie perfumes and complimentary tea pairings with perfume purchases (up to two). Whether indoors or al fresco, immerse yourself in a sensory reverie unlike any other.

Together, this collaboration represents a shared commitment to redefining luxury and individual expression. It beckons guests into a realm where creativity knows no bounds, where every intricacy weaves into an extraordinary narrative of indulgence.