UberSoca Cruise 2025 Takes Over St. Thomas on November 19, Promising a Uniquely Vibrant Fusion of Music, Culture, and Island Spirit

The UberSoca Cruise 2025 is set to take over St. Thomas on November 19, offering an unforgettable blend of Caribbean music, vibrant culture, and the island’s unmistakable spirit. This high-energy event promises to unite soca music lovers and tourists, creating an atmosphere of celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the U.S. Virgin Islands. With live performances, local food, and a lively street parade, the UberSoca Cruise highlights the island’s growing reputation as a top destination for cultural and musical tourism.

St. Thomas Gears Up for UberSoca Cruise 2025: A Celebration of Caribbean Culture and Music

The U.S. Virgin Islands is set to host one of the most exciting events of the year, the UberSoca Cruise 2025, which will take place in St. Thomas on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. This event, organized by the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Division of Festivals, promises to be an unforgettable celebration of music, food, and culture. It will unite soca music fans from around the world with the vibrant local community of St. Thomas, offering a unique opportunity to experience the island’s rich heritage and creative spirit.

Held aboard the luxurious Norwegian Encore, the UberSoca Cruise 2025 is expected to attract thousands of soca fans, music lovers, and tourists who are eager to immerse themselves in the rhythmic beats of the Caribbean. The event is part of a growing movement to showcase the U.S. Virgin Islands as a premier destination for world-class music and cultural celebrations. Over the years, the Territory has become increasingly recognized for its ability to host dynamic events that combine entertainment with local culture, attracting visitors and fostering community engagement.

The Parade: A Vibrant Display of Island Pride

The festivities will kick off with a lively street parade that will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This parade promises to be a true spectacle, filled with colorful costumes, infectious music, and the energy of local performers. Participants and spectators alike will line the streets to celebrate Virgin Islands’ pride, as local dancers, musicians, and artists showcase the island’s cultural traditions.

The parade will weave its way through St. Thomas, offering a glimpse of the Territory’s vibrant culture, with soca rhythms filling the air and a sea of festive colors dancing through the streets. The parade route will be lined with smiling faces and waving flags, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike.

Food, Music, and Local Artistry

After the parade, the celebration continues with a Food Fair from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Bennie Iguana parking lot, conveniently located near the West Indian Company Limited (WICO) pier. Here, attendees will be able to indulge in a wide array of delicious local dishes, showcasing the diverse culinary offerings of the Virgin Islands. From flavorful Caribbean jerk chicken and fresh seafood to traditional local desserts, the food fair promises to be a gastronomic delight.

The event will also feature live performances by local artists, creating an authentic Virgin Islands experience for all guests. Musicians will take to the stage to perform a mix of soca, reggae, and calypso, keeping the energy high and the crowd moving. The sounds of the islands will reverberate through the air, drawing everyone together in a shared celebration of Caribbean music and culture.

A Bright Future for Caribbean Tourism

The UberSoca Cruise 2025 in St. Thomas highlights the U.S. Virgin Islands’ growing prominence as a leading destination for music lovers and cultural enthusiasts. As the Territory continues to expand its offerings of exciting events, it is becoming a hub for international travelers seeking an authentic Caribbean experience. By hosting such high-profile events, the Virgin Islands not only celebrate their rich culture but also support local businesses, artists, and communities, ensuring that tourism benefits all aspects of the island’s economy.

The UberSoca Cruise 2025 is more than just a festival; it is an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the heart of the Virgin Islands, connecting with its people and culture in ways that go beyond the typical tourist experience. Whether you’re a soca fan, a foodie, or someone looking to explore new destinations, St. Thomas promises an unforgettable day of celebration, community, and Caribbean charm.

“The UberSoca Cruise is a dynamic platform for celebrating the spirit of the Virgin Islands among a passionate community of Soca fans and Caribbean music lovers,” said Commissioner Nominee Jennifer Matarangas-King of the Department of Tourism. “This partnership showcases how culture continues to shape our tourism industry while giving local artists, performers, and vendors an opportunity to connect with visitors who share a deep appreciation for Caribbean creativity.”

The St. Thomas stop marks a continued partnership between the Department of Tourism and UberSoca Cruise organizers, aimed at enhancing the Territory’s cultural tourism footprint. By blending top-tier entertainment with genuine local experiences, the Division of Festivals boosts the Virgin Islands’ creative economy and solidifies its reputation as a premier host of iconic Caribbean events.

The UberSoca Cruise 2025 is taking over St. Thomas on November 19, bringing a vibrant mix of soca music, local culture, and island energy. This exciting event will showcase the U.S. Virgin Islands’ rich heritage, featuring live performances, a lively street parade, and local food. It promises an unforgettable experience for tourists and music lovers alike.

“We are proud to welcome the UberSoca Cruise family back to our shores,” said Ian M. Turnbull, Director of the Division of Festivals. “This year’s celebration will bring together residents and visitors in a shared experience that honors our traditions and celebrates the enduring connection between culture and tourism.”

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Choice Hotels Marks a Milestone in France with a Significant Expansion of 50 New Quality Suites Hotels, Bringing Its Portfolio to 107 Properties Across the Country

Choice Hotels is celebrating a major milestone in France with the addition of 50 new Quality Suites hotels, expanding its footprint to a total of 107 properties across the country. This strategic growth will bolster the brand’s presence in key French cities and provide travellers with even more opportunities to experience the comfort and quality of Choice Hotels in one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. The expansion reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to offering guests high-quality accommodations in prime locations throughout France.

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), a global leader in hotel franchising, is expanding its footprint in France with the addition of 50 new Quality Suites hotels. This strategic move will more than double the company’s presence in the country, bringing its portfolio to 107 properties and over 4,800 rooms across 41 new cities. Notably, 22% of these new locations are situated in key economic hubs, including Nice, Reims, Clermont-Ferrand, Limoges, Mulhouse, and Perpignan, with growth also seen in Marseille, Toulouse, and Bordeaux.

This expansion is part of a larger long-term partnership established in April 2024 between Choice Hotels EMEA and Le Groupe Zenitude. As part of a 20-year agreement, more than 30 mid-range aparthotels catering to business, leisure, and extended stays—totaling over 4,000 rooms—will be integrated into the Choice Hotels network under well-known brands such as Clarion, Comfort, and Ascend Hotel Collection.

Choice Hotels has expanded its portfolio in France with the addition of 50 new Quality Suites hotels, significantly enhancing its long-term accommodation offerings. This expansion builds on the existing strategic partnership with Zenitude, incorporating the co-branding concepts of Quality Suites and Oui Seniors. These properties are designed to serve as multi-functional, intergenerational spaces, offering both hotel accommodations and residences for individuals aged 55 and older. This model allows existing aparthotels to be repurposed to cater to the changing demands of travelers and residents, while also optimizing profitability.

The co-branding approach provides greater flexibility, making the buildings more adaptable and efficient in the long run. It promotes sustainability and better utilization over time, accommodating a range of functions such as temporary lodging, long-term residences, and coworking spaces. This strategic shift is aimed at appealing to a diverse customer base, ensuring that properties meet the varied needs of modern travelers.

Strategically positioned near airports, public transportation hubs, and urban centers, the expanded network not only supports year-round business travel but also meets the increased demand during peak seasons. This growth further solidifies France’s pivotal role in Choice Hotels’ EMEA expansion strategy.

David Beers, CEO of Choice Hotels International EMEA, stated: “France has always been central to our international growth strategy, and this strategic agreement with Zenitude firmly establishes Choice Hotels’s position as a leader in one of Europe’s most competitive hotel markets. Our 2024 strategic agreement laid the groundwork for accelerated growth, and the addition of these 50 new Quality Suites properties is a direct continuation of this momentum. Their addition reflects the advantage of combining Zenitude’s local expertise with Choice Hotels’s global distribution, loyalty, and technology platforms.”

Commenting on the reintroduction of the Quality Suites brand to the French market, David added : “The Quality Suites brand is designed for modern stays with flexible layouts, reliable standards and extended-stay comfort, enabling us to offer innovative and future-proof accommodation solutions for travelers of all generations by fostering authentic relationships and helping travelers truly feel at home, wherever they stay.”

Romain Lubrano, co-founder and CEO of the Zenitude Group, stated: “Our agreement with Choice Hotels has allowed us to significantly expand our reach thanks to global distribution, brand recognition, and the Choice Privileges® loyalty program. This new addition to our agreement reinforces our shared long-term vision for France, and the Quality Suites brand perfectly aligns with the ever-increasing expectations of our guests. As we continue to expand our presence in France, our objective is not merely quantitative, but aims to create a portfolio that offers flexibility, consistency, and added value, while supporting sustainable and profitable growth throughout the region .”

Choice Hotels is marking a significant milestone in France with the addition of 50 new Quality Suites hotels, expanding its portfolio to 107 properties nationwide. This expansion strengthens the brand’s presence in key cities across the country, offering travellers more options for premium accommodations. The move underscores Choice Hotels’ commitment to enhancing guest experiences in one of Europe’s top tourist destinations.

Every property will be part of the Choice Privileges® loyalty program, enabling members to collect and use points at more than 7,100 hotels globally.

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Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa Unveils Vista and The Promenade Lounge, Ushering in a New Era of Dining Excellence and Luxury Experiences in Delhi-NCR

Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa has officially introduced two exceptional dining venues, Vista and The Promenade Lounge, marking a new chapter in Delhi-NCR’s culinary landscape. With these additions, the resort aims to elevate its dining offerings, blending world-class cuisine with the renowned elegance and luxury that Taj Hotels are known for. These new venues are set to redefine the dining experience, offering a sophisticated mix of global flavours and traditional Indian delicacies, ensuring guests enjoy a memorable and luxurious gastronomic journey.

Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa: A New Era in Dining with Vista and The Promenade Lounge

Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa, nestled in the heart of Delhi-NCR, is set to elevate the dining experience for its guests with the unveiling of two exceptional new dining venues: Vista and The Promenade Lounge. Both of these stunning spaces not only offer a diverse range of global flavours and traditional Indian delicacies but also embody the timeless elegance and renowned hospitality for which Taj Hotels are celebrated worldwide. These new additions are poised to redefine the culinary scene at the resort, offering something special for every guest, from casual dining to moments of indulgence.

Vista: A Harmonious Blend of Culinary Artistry and Comfort

At the heart of Taj Surajkund’s dining offerings is Vista, the resort’s flagship all-day dining restaurant. This spacious, light-filled venue overlooks the resort’s meticulously landscaped courtyards, allowing guests to enjoy a view of nature while experiencing world-class dining. The menu at Vista is thoughtfully designed to blend global culinary influences with traditional Indian flavours, showcasing a fusion of the finest ingredients and the innovative techniques of skilled chefs.

Signature dishes such as Lamb Polpettes, Spicy Tiger Prawns Tagliatelle, and the indulgent Funghi e Tartufo Pizza take centre stage, offering a tantalizing mix of exotic tastes and comforting classics. Each dish is prepared in the restaurant’s interactive live kitchens, adding an element of excitement to the dining experience.

The setting at Vista evolves throughout the day, adapting to different moods and occasions. During the day, the restaurant comes alive with vibrant energy, offering a relaxing space for guests to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or a light lunch. As the sun sets, Vista transforms into a serene and sophisticated dining venue, providing the perfect backdrop for an intimate dinner. The restaurant’s alfresco section extends the dining experience outdoors, offering stunning views of the Aravallis mountain range and the tranquil courtyards. This seamless connection with nature ensures that every visit to Vista feels like a peaceful retreat.

The Promenade Lounge: A Haven of Tranquil Indulgence

In addition to Vista, Taj Surajkund is proud to present The Promenade Lounge, a space dedicated to quiet indulgence and refined comfort. With a design that marries contemporary sophistication with understated elegance, the lounge offers the ideal spot to enjoy a moment of relaxation. Guests can soak in the serene atmosphere, with views of the resort’s beautiful courtyard and a captivating water fountain, making it the perfect place for everything from a morning coffee to an evening cocktail.

The design of The Promenade Lounge exudes modern elegance, with soft teal hues, marble accents, and warm wood finishes. The space invites guests to unwind, offering a sanctuary away from the bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re enjoying a Lamb Burger, Quesadillas, or the indulgent Truffle Mushroom Vol-au-Vents, the menu here is designed to satisfy with a selection of refined comfort food that perfectly complements the relaxing atmosphere.

The dessert offerings at The Promenade Lounge are equally impressive, with standout options like the indulgent Raspberry Lava Cake and the rich and creamy Basque Cheesecake. To complement the culinary offerings, The Promenade Lounge features an extensive selection of teas, single-origin coffees, fine wines, and classic cocktails, ensuring that every visit is a luxurious experience.

A New Chapter in Taj Surajkund’s Dining Legacy

With the launch of Vista and The Promenade Lounge, Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa continues to uphold its commitment to providing guests with memorable, world-class experiences. These two venues represent a fusion of global culinary traditions and the warmth of Indian hospitality, creating spaces that offer not just exceptional food, but an unforgettable ambiance. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant dining experience or a quiet moment of indulgence, Taj Surajkund’s new dining venues are designed to meet every need, making each visit to the resort a true celebration of fine dining.

Ramneet Singh, Hotel Manager, Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa, Delhi-NCR said, “We are delighted to launch our newest culinary destinations – Vista and The Promenade Lounge at Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa, Delhi-NCR, that bring together exceptional cuisine, intuitive service and a strong sense of place. Both restaurants have been attentively designed to enhance the holistic guest experience of dining in luxury and comfort with authentic and thoughtfully crafted flavours. Together, they elevate the hotel’s culinary landscape by creating distinct yet harmonious experiences that reflect Taj’s timeless hospitality and contemporary sophistication.”

Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa has unveiled two exceptional dining venues, Vista and The Promenade Lounge, setting a new standard for luxury dining in Delhi-NCR. These innovative spaces combine world-class cuisine with the elegance that Taj Hotels are renowned for, offering guests an extraordinary culinary experience. With their sophisticated ambiance and diverse menu options, these additions are sure to elevate the resort’s gastronomic offerings.

Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa in Delhi-NCR offers an exceptional dining experience, featuring Paranda, a renowned North Indian restaurant celebrated for its traditional flavors. Guests can also unwind at Easy Bar, a chic venue serving creative cocktails in a laid-back setting.

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ITC Hotels Sets a New Benchmark in Responsible Luxury, Winning Four Major Sustainability Awards at the 2025 World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards

ITC Hotels has made history by setting a new benchmark in responsible luxury, securing four major accolades at the 2025 World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards. This prestigious recognition highlights the brand’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, wellness, and community engagement, affirming its leadership in the hospitality industry. The awards not only celebrate ITC Hotels’ dedication to responsible luxury but also underscore the growing importance of integrating sustainable practices into the modern travel and hospitality landscape.

ITC Hotels Limited has been honoured with the title of World’s Leading Sustainable Organisation 2025 at the prestigious World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA). In a remarkable achievement, the hotel chain also clinched three other major accolades: World’s Leading Sustainable Food & Nutrition Initiative 2025, World’s Leading Sustainable Marketing Campaign 2025, and World’s Leading Sustainable Employer 2025, bringing its total award count to four—the highest of any organisation. This recognition underscores ITC Hotels’ unwavering dedication to its Responsible Luxury philosophy, seamlessly integrating sustainability, wellness, and community engagement into its hospitality services. The awards were presented after a comprehensive four-phase evaluation process, which included nominations, pre-evaluations by the Sustainable Business Institute, shortlisting by the WSTHA Advisory Board, and global voting.

Commenting on being recognized with the awards, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited said, “This global recognition reaffirms our commitment to Responsible Luxury – where sustainability and excellence converge to redefine hospitality. It inspires us to continue leading with purpose and shaping experiences that reflect ITC Hotels’ endeavour to build a better, more sustainable future “

The WSTHA 2025 awards were presented in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (WSHA), a global non-profit representing over 66,000 hotels and 300 brands. WSHA provides industry-wide tools to help hotels reduce environmental impact and support local communities.

HC Vinayaka, VP- Technical Services, EHS & Sustainability, ITC Hotels Limited on winning the awards said, “These awards strengthen our resolve to lead with purpose and innovate toward a net-positive future for the hospitality industry. It reflects our teams’ dedication to integrating sustainability into every operation and motivates us to continuously innovate, ensuring ITC Hotels remains a benchmark for responsible, future-ready hospitality.”

Commenting on ITCHL’s remarkable win, Glenn Mandziuk, President & CEO, World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance said, “ITC Hotels’ remarkable achievement at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards exemplifies the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership. Their Responsible Luxury ethos demonstrates how sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand – setting a global benchmark for the hospitality sector. We are proud to recognise ITC Hotels as a true pioneer advancing the Alliance’s shared vision of Net Positive Hospitality.”

Justin Cooke, Executive Vice President, World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards stated, “ITC Hotels securing four awards at last night’s World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards at Terra, Expo City Dubai, is proof that Responsible Luxury is an operating system, not a slogan. It delivers guest delight, measurable environmental gains, and strong commercial performance. ITC Hotels is setting the pace for Net Positive travel and hospitality, and we are proud to celebrate their leadership.”

Launched at COP28 in Dubai, the World Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality Awards (WSTHA) aim to spotlight outstanding contributions to sustainable practices within the tourism and hospitality industries. The awards are designed to celebrate efforts that address climate change, support biodiversity, engage local communities, and promote responsible hospitality. With growing concern for the environmental impact of tourism, WSTHA sets a new benchmark for the sector by recognising those who are driving positive change and aligning with global sustainability goals.

The WSTHA programme enjoys the backing of an esteemed advisory board, consisting of influential leaders from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Responsible Tourism Institute, which is supported by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This collaboration ensures that the awards uphold the highest standards of excellence, with a focus on aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and the Net Positive framework. Through these partnerships, the programme reinforces the significance of sustainability in the tourism industry’s future.

Held on October 29, 2025, at Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion in Expo City Dubai, the awards ceremony served as a grand occasion for the global hospitality community. As an emblem of sustainable practices, Terra offered the perfect backdrop to recognize and reward those organisations pioneering eco-friendly practices and sustainable growth. It was here that ITC Hotels Ltd. received the prestigious award, cementing its reputation as a leader in sustainable hospitality, committed to reducing its environmental footprint and fostering responsible tourism.

ITC Hotels has set a new standard in responsible luxury by winning four major awards at the 2025 World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards. These prestigious accolades recognize the brand’s exceptional commitment to sustainability, wellness, and community engagement. With this achievement, ITC Hotels continues to lead the way in integrating sustainable practices into the hospitality sector.

For ITC Hotels, this recognition provides a global platform to showcase its long-standing commitment to sustainable practices. The award highlights the brand’s initiatives in environmental conservation, community engagement, and ethical operations, which have positioned it as a key player in the sustainable hospitality landscape. The company’s efforts not only contribute to a more responsible future for the industry but also inspire other businesses to adopt similar green practices, reinforcing the pivotal role of sustainability in shaping the future of tourism.

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