Author: Neel Achary

‘Look East’ Travel Trend shapes Indian summer holiday choices

Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel Highlight Asia as the Go-To for Spontaneous Summer Getaways

Apr 29: With summer already underway, Indian travellers are making the most of the season with spontaneous, experience-led getaways across East and Southeast Asia. Insights from Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel highlight a strong “Look East” trend, with travellers favouring destinations that offer ease of access, shorter travel durations and a rich mix of cultural, culinary and leisure experiences. From vibrant cities to island escapes, these destinations are emerging as the perfect playground for last-minute summer travel.

Japan Japan in summer is a sensory experience, where centuries-old traditions meet high-energy celebrations. Travellers can witness vibrant matsuri festivals with taiko drumming, parades and spectacular fireworks displays, while also exploring Tokyo’s immersive digital art museums and quirky themed cafés. In Kyoto, early morning heritage walks through temple districts and bamboo groves offer a quieter, cultural contrast. Food lovers can go beyond sushi—sampling regional ramen trails or joining izakaya hopping tours in Osaka. For a more offbeat experience, travellers can stay in a traditional ryokan, participate in a tea ceremony or take a scenic rail journey through the Japanese Alps, making every moment deeply immersive and uniquely local.

South Korea South Korea offers a compelling blend of pop culture, tradition and cutting-edge experiences that resonate strongly with Indian travellers. In Seoul, visitors can explore royal palaces like Gyeongbokgung in traditional hanbok, shop in vibrant districts such as Myeongdong and Gangnam, or dive into the city’s buzzing café and K-beauty culture. Food enthusiasts can indulge in Korean barbecue, street food markets and interactive cooking experiences. Beyond the capital, Busan’s coastal charm offers beachside relaxation and seafood markets, while Jeju Island provides scenic landscapes with waterfalls, lava tubes and hiking trails. From K-pop and K-dramas to heritage villages and wellness retreats, South Korea delivers a dynamic and trend-forward summer escape.

Indonesia Bali offers far more than just beaches, positioning itself as a holistic escape blending culture, wellness and adventure. Travellers can start their day with sunrise yoga overlooking rice terraces in Ubud, followed by a visit to Tirta Empul for a traditional water purification ritual. Evenings come alive with the dramatic Kecak fire dance at Uluwatu Temple set against a cliffside sunset. Adventure seekers can trek up Mount Batur at dawn or explore hidden waterfalls in the island’s interior. Bali’s café culture, beach clubs and artisanal markets add a contemporary edge, while the Bali Arts Festival provides an authentic window into the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Thailand Thailand continues to deliver high-energy, multi-layered travel experiences that cater to every kind of traveller. In Bangkok, visitors can explore bustling floating markets by day and rooftop bars by night, while also indulging in guided street food tours through Chinatown. The islands offer a different pace—whether it’s kayaking through limestone caves in Krabi, snorkelling in the Phi Phi Islands or enjoying a private long-tail boat excursion at sunset. Wellness seekers can indulge in traditional Thai spa therapies, while culture enthusiasts can visit ornate temples or even take a Thai cooking class. Thailand’s versatility and vibrant atmosphere make it a perennial summer favourite.

Vietnam Vietnam offers a dynamic mix of landscapes and experiences that feel both immersive and refreshingly different. Travellers can spend a night cruising through Ha Long Bay, waking up to sunrise over limestone karsts, or wander through Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, stopping for riverside dining and local craft shopping. For a more relaxed island escape, Phu Quoc offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and a slower pace of travel. Visitors can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, take the world’s longest over-sea cable car to Hon Thom Island, or explore the lively night markets known for fresh seafood and local delicacies. In Sapa, guided treks through terraced rice fields offer interactions with local communities, adding depth to the journey. Urban explorers can dive into Hanoi’s Old Quarter on a vintage Vespa food tour or discover hidden cafés serving Vietnam’s famous egg coffee. With its balance of culture, cuisine, island escapes and natural beauty, Vietnam is quickly becoming a must-visit destination.

Singapore Singapore stands out as a destination that effortlessly combines efficiency with high-impact experiences. Travellers can begin with a sunrise walk at Gardens by the Bay before exploring the city’s diverse neighbourhoods—from Chinatown’s heritage streets to Kampong Glam’s trendy cafés. Thrill-seekers can head to Sentosa for ziplining or indoor skydiving, while families can enjoy Universal Studios and the Night Safari. Food lovers can embark on a hawker trail, sampling everything from chilli crab to Michelin-recognised street food. Evening experiences like river cruises or skyline light shows add to Singapore’s appeal as a compact yet experience-rich getaway.

Malaysia Malaysia offers a well-balanced itinerary with a mix of urban energy, cultural exploration and natural beauty. Kuala Lumpur’s skyline and shopping districts provide a lively start, while nearby Batu Caves offer a striking cultural landmark. In Langkawi, travellers can take the cable car up to the Sky Bridge for panoramic island views or enjoy mangrove kayaking through geoparks. Penang adds a creative and culinary layer, with street art trails, heritage walks and hands-on cooking classes. This diversity allows travellers to seamlessly combine multiple experiences within a single trip, making Malaysia both practical and rewarding.

Mauritius Mauritius goes beyond the typical beach holiday, offering a rich blend of relaxation and exploration. Travellers can sail on a catamaran along the coast, snorkel in coral reefs or take a helicopter ride to witness the island’s famous “underwater waterfall” illusion. Inland, lush national parks and waterfalls provide opportunities for hiking and nature trails, while cultural experiences—from sega dance performances to local rum tastings—offer insight into the island’s heritage. Whether it’s a scenic road trip or a luxury beachfront stay, Mauritius delivers a well-rounded, indulgent escape.

Maldives The Maldives offers an unparalleled sense of escape, where the focus is on slowing down and reconnecting. Beyond relaxing in overwater villas, travellers can snorkel alongside vibrant marine life, enjoy guided night fishing excursions or indulge in underwater dining experiences. Wellness is a key highlight, with spa therapies set against ocean views and sunrise yoga sessions on private decks. Unique experiences such as sandbank picnics, dolphin cruises and personalised butler-led stays elevate the destination beyond a typical beach holiday, making it ideal for those seeking exclusivity and tranquillity.

Philippines The Philippines is emerging as an offbeat yet highly rewarding destination, especially for travellers drawn to untouched natural beauty. Island-hopping in Palawan reveals hidden lagoons, limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, while Boracay offers a more vibrant beach scene with water sports and nightlife. Adventure seekers can go kayaking through secret caves, snorkel in coral gardens or take cliff-jumping excursions. Its relatively less crowded appeal compared to other Southeast Asian destinations makes the Philippines perfect for those looking to explore something new and less conventional this summer.

Australia Australia offers a diverse mix of experiences, from cosmopolitan cities to dramatic coastal landscapes. Travellers can explore Sydney’s iconic harbour, take coastal walks like Bondi to Coogee or enjoy wildlife encounters at conservation parks. A road trip along the Great Ocean Road provides stunning ocean views and access to natural landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. Food and wine enthusiasts can explore regions such as Yarra Valley, while adventure seekers can try surfing or diving along the Great Barrier Reef. Australia’s vastness makes it ideal for travellers looking to curate a varied and immersive itinerary.

New Zealand New Zealand is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Travellers can cruise through the breathtaking fjords of Milford Sound, take scenic drives through rolling landscapes or explore glowworm caves for a unique natural spectacle. Queenstown, known as the adventure capital, offers everything from bungee jumping and jet boating to more relaxed vineyard tours. For a slower pace, visitors can enjoy lakeside stays, scenic ट्रेन journeys and immersive Māori cultural experiences. The country’s pristine beauty and wide range of activities make it a truly unforgettable destination.

Neo Alternative Asset Managers Commits INR 300 Crore to Atlantis at Narsingi in Its First Hyderabad Real Estate Investment

Hyderabad, Apr 29: Neo Alternative Asset Managers, the asset management arm of Neo Group, has committed structured debt financing of ₹300 crore to VRise Developers for Atlantis at Narsingi, the large-scale premium residential development by The Vasavi Group in West Hyderabad.

Atlantis at Narsingi is a RERA-approved high-rise gated community comprising eight towers of 45 floors each, with 2,199 residences across 2 BHK, 3 BHK, 4 BHK and Sky Villa configurations. Located in Narsingi, close to Gachibowli and the Financial District, the project offers strong access to the Outer Ring Road, Kokapet SEZ and major employment corridors that house leading global technology and corporate campuses.

The project is also designed around scale, open spaces and lifestyle infrastructure, with over 70% open spaces, landscaped greens, a lakefront setting and more than 50 premium amenities. These features position Atlantis at Narsingi as one of West Hyderabad’s significant premium residential developments.

Speaking on the development, senior leadership from VRise Developers said, “The commitment from Neo Alternative Asset Managers is a strong endorsement of Atlantis at Narsingi and the long-term strength of Hyderabad’s residential market. This funding will be directed towards accelerating construction, strengthening execution and ensuring that homebuyers receive their homes at the earliest possible timeline. Atlantis is a commitment to every homebuyer who has placed trust in the project, and we are fully focused on delivering on that promise.”

With the funding in place, VRise Developers has mobilised additional construction resources, fast-tracked procurement and aligned its project management teams to drive execution across the development. The company is working to maintain construction momentum while ensuring that quality, safety and delivery standards remain central to the project.

Neo Alternative Asset Managers said, “Hyderabad continues to show strong fundamentals across residential demand, infrastructure growth and employment-led housing consumption. Atlantis at Narsingi brings together scale, location and a clear delivery focus, making it a compelling investment opportunity. Our commitment reflects our conviction in the project, the developer’s execution intent and the depth of Hyderabad’s real estate market.”

The investment further strengthens the long-term value proposition of Atlantis at Narsingi, reinforcing its position as one of West Hyderabad’s most coveted residential addresses. With institutional capital backing its scale, location and premium development vision, Atlantis is poised to become a landmark community for homebuyers seeking both lifestyle value and strong future appreciation in one of Hyderabad’s most desirable growth corridors.

Metacarpal Founder Fergal Mackie Named to Forbes 30 Under 30 Science and Healthcare List for 2026

EDINBURGH, Scotland, April 29, 2026 — Metacarpal, the Edinburgh-based medical device company and creators of the world’s first multi-articulated body-powered prosthetic hand, celebrates a landmark milestone as Founder and CEO Fergal Mackie earns a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe Science and Healthcare list for 2026. The recognition arrives as Metacarpal accelerates its commercial push into the United States and Canada, backed by FDA registration, 40 active users, and a host of investors.

Forbes recognized Fergal Mackie, 28, alongside researchers, doctors, and entrepreneurs improving healthcare and building the hardware of the future. The honor reflects not only the company’s rapid commercial traction since launching sales in September 2025, but also the human story at the heart of Metacarpal’s mission. Before his final year at the University of Strathclyde, Fergal Mackie broke both wrists and was forced to rethink how he completed everyday tasks. That experience gave him something no laboratory could replicate: a firsthand understanding of what upper-limb amputees actually need.

“Being named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list is a reminder of why we started this company,” said Fergal Mackie, Founder and CEO of Metacarpal. “The prosthetics industry has spent decades chasing complexity, and millions of people have simply stopped using devices that don’t work for their lives. We built GEM because amputees deserve a hand that works every single time, that they can trust and rely upon.”

With 41,000 Americans living with major upper-limb amputations and 50% of upper-limb prosthetic users abandoning their devices, the North American market represents a largely unserved opportunity. Despite decades of innovations in robotic hands, hooks have remained the most popular devices. Users have been telling the industry that they value reliable performance and durability over complex features.

Metacarpal’s flagship device, the GEM Hand, addresses this gap directly. Powered by the user’s own body motion through patented Reactive Grasp Technology, the GEM Hand delivers multiple grip patterns, immediate proportional pressure feedback, and long-term reliability without electronic components, batteries, or complex control systems. For the first time, prosthetic users have access to advanced abilities without compromising their performance or control. 

David Bowie, Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Metacarpal, brings 35 years of MedTech experience to the company’s leadership. His confidence in Metacarpal’s potential led him from an early advisory role to a formal position as a non-executive director and investor in late 2021.

“In the five years I have known Fergal Mackie, he has continued to grow as a leader, building a team of recognized, credible people with the experience and expertise to compete at the highest level,” said David Bowie, Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Metacarpal. “What he has built at Metacarpal has the potential to change the landscape and functionality of prosthetics and bring this technology to the people who need it most. It is a valuable and exciting journey to be part of.”

Erica Karlson, North American Director of Metacarpal, leads the U.S. rollout of the GEM Hand and brings more than 18 years of device sales experience to the company’s expansion, with nearly 12 years focused specifically on upper-limb prosthetic solutions. Karlson builds clinical and distributor networks, leads prosthetist training, and channels user feedback to drive adoption of GEM across North America.

“I’ve seen firsthand the level of focus, drive, and intention behind what we’re building, and it’s exciting to be part of it,” said Erica Karlson, North American Director of Metacarpal. “What Fergal Mackie and this team have accomplished in Europe is already creating real momentum in the U.S. market, and everything that is ahead for this company is something I am proud to be leading from the North American side.”

Metacarpal has secured $2.7 million from investors, including SIS Ventures, Scottish Enterprise, Worth Capital, and Oxford Technology, and operates out of the National Robotarium at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, one of Europe’s leading robotics and AI research facilities. The company’s long-term vision extends beyond North America, with plans to bring its technology to developing countries and conflict zones where access to reliable, affordable prosthetics remains critically limited.

Mackie was selected for the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list in April 2026, and featured among some of the region’s best professionals dedicated to science and health. A panel of expert judges drawn from venture capital, entrepreneurship, and industry leadership chose the winners based on innovation, impact, and the potential to shape their field. The full Science and Healthcare list is available at forbes.com.

Goldin Reveals “Goldin’s Summer of Greatness,” A Multi-Category Auction Series Spanning Sports, History, and Entertainment

Leading auction house presents spectacular summer lineup, anchored by expanded Goldin 100 experience and highly-anticipated USA 250 Auction

April 29, 2026 –  Goldin, the internationally recognized auction house known for rare and record-breaking collectible sales, today announced “Goldin’s Summer of Greatness,” a comprehensive series of auctions and experiences running throughout May and June 2026. 

The company’s recent record-setting $16.5 million sale of Logan Paul’s PSA Grade 10 Pikachu Illustrator card—the most expensive trading card ever sold—propels Goldin’s momentum into the summer months with astounding auctions and experiences across sports, history, and entertainment.

“Whether you’re a collector of Americana, you grew up watching Star Wars, or you’re an avid global soccer fan, Goldin is your go-to all summer long,” said Ken Goldin, Founder and CEO of Goldin. “This is truly Goldin’s greatest summer ever – across sports, history, and entertainment. And it all leads up to our in-person Goldin 100 closing event, which is going to be absolutely amazing. We’re so excited to share it with you!”

One of the most prominent seasonal events for the company, Goldin 100 Auctions consistently generate excitement from collectors for their rare, hand-selected offerings–and they are about to get even bigger. Starting this summer, all Goldin 100 Auctions will culminate in an immersive, in-person livestream experience, hosted at the Goldin Headquarters, to celebrate the close of the sale, featuring box breaks, special guests, and more. Scheduled for May 27 – June 27, the Summer Goldin 100 Auction is led by a 2003-04 Exquisite Collection LeBron James Limited Logos Patch Autograph (#23) and a Shohei Ohtani Superfractor. 

The summer slate also celebrates Americana through the highly-anticipated USA 250 Auction, opening May 8, which highlights formative moments of American history and identity ahead of the country’s 250th anniversary. The auction will feature historically important material connected to the nation’s founding and enduring legacy, including an original 1776 Declaration of Independence Broadside, an Aug. 14, 1945 Glenn McDuffie signed and personally owned U.S. Navy uniform as seen in the “V-J Day in Times Square” photograph, and a Bob Ross-painted U.S. bomber jacket, offering collectors access to artifacts that reflect pivotal moments and American leaders.

Goldin dives into the history of popular culture with multiple entertainment-focused auctions, including a Vintage Star Wars Auction opening May 1, led by a 1979 Kenner Star Wars Boba Fett Rocket Firing/J-Slot Prototype Action Figure, as well as the Spring Pop Culture Auction, set for May 21 and led by the “Iceman” Prop Helmet from Top Gun. In addition to action figures and screen-used props and costumes, the entertainment auctions will span music, celebrity, and broader pop culture moments, allowing fans to embrace nostalgia and obtain tangible pieces of core memories.

“Goldin’s Summer of Greatness,” further features spectacular sports auctions tied to some of the most recognizable athletes, teams, and moments across global competition. 

The Global Football Auction is planned to open May 11, timed ahead of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, and is led by a 2019-20 Topps Chrome Bundesliga Autographs SuperFractor #72 Erling Haaland signed rookie card (#1/1). With overwhelming interest and highly coveted soccer consignments in queue, Goldin is also preparing for a Global Football Auction Part 2 later in the summer. 

The company’s first ever Combat Sports Auction is scheduled to open May 14 and is led by a 2013 Topps Chrome Conor McGregor 1/1 rookie card. The 2026 June Vintage Elite Auction is slated to begin late May, boasting both a 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle PSA NM-MT 8–one of the finest pack-fresh copies in existence–and a 1933 Goudey #144 Signed Babe Ruth PSA VG 3 (MC) and PSA/DNA NM 7 Autograph, POP 1, with only three higher-graded copies known. These specialty sales will be hosted in conjunction with Goldin’s monthly Sports Elite auctions throughout May, June, and July.

Simultaneously, Goldin continues to expand its presence in live commerce through initiatives like Lights, Camera, Bid, a nationwide search for the auction house’s new eBay Live host, which runs through May 22 and highlights the growing role of personality-driven programming within the collectibles space.

“Goldin’s Summer of Greatness” aligns multiple categories under a single campaign, reflecting the breadth and depth of the company’s expertise and highlights Goldin’s position as an internationally renowned leader across collectibles, where interest continues to grow across sports, pop culture, and historical artifacts alike.

Additional details, including a larger list of featured items and expanded auction highlights, will be announced nearer to each auction’s opening date.

De Beers Group Launches New Bridal Campaign Celebrating Desert Diamonds

NEW YORK, US – 29 April 2026 – De Beers Group recently announced the launch of its new Desert diamonds Bridal campaign undersigned by A Diamond Is Forever, celebrating a fresh and authentic vision for the modern proposal. This campaign marks a significant moment in De Beers’ ongoing commitment to redefining how natural diamonds express individuality, love, and timeless beauty.

Desert diamonds, first unveiled as a beacon in October 2025, draw inspiration from the colors of the earth from which they originate. The campaign celebrates a unique spectrum of colors — each shade telling a story of resilience, authenticity, and enduring love. The bridal campaign will build upon the success and momentum of the Q4 Desert diamonds launch.

Evolving the modern bridal aesthetic and highlighting the distinct character of each stone, Desert diamonds’ warm hues echo diverse forms of love, with sunlit whites and champagnes, soft sand tones and sunset blush and dawn colors reflecting the uniqueness of nature’s beauty. Together, these colors celebrate the evolving journey of love in all its forms – authentic, true and timeless.

The Desert diamonds bridal campaign is an industry-wide umbrella program, the goal of which is to create demand for natural diamonds by reigniting consumer desire with a new and relevant message. Retailers and designers across the industry have been working to develop pieces that showcase the full desert-inspired palette, including notable jeweler Kindred Lubeck, who will unveil her first bridal collection in conjunction with the campaign launch.

Launching 13 April 2026 across the United States, De Beers’ A Diamond Is Forever Desert diamond bridal campaign is supported by an integrated marketing effort across digital, social, and experiential channels, while also including out-of-home, social media and publishing partnerships. Using evocative storytelling, that creative spotlights how each natural diamond is as unique as the love it represents. Premium targeting efforts across digital platforms and geotargeting around key retailers will result in an estimated reach of 25 million American consumers – placing Desert diamonds in bridal content while leveraging shopper data and look-a-like audiences. Further amplification across the Brides, Martha Stewart, and greater People Inc. portfolio will educate, inspire and reinforce Desert diamonds as the enduring choice.

Sandrine Conseiller, CEO of De Beers Brands & Diamond Desirability, said:
“The success of Desert diamonds reinforces the spirit of authentic, evolving love. Today’s brides want something truly unique that delivers meaning and individuality. Natural diamonds, forged by nature over billions of years, in a range of color choices are the perfect symbol of a love that is uniquely theirs – resilient, genuine, timeless, colorful. This soft palette of natural colors celebrates the modern couple’s desire to celebrate the individuality of their commitment and the promise of a forever that truly reflects their story.”

Haiqu and HSBC Demonstrate Scalable Quantum Encoding for Financial Models

Peer-reviewed Physical Review Research paper shows efficient preparation of financial distributions on quantum hardware

NEW YORK CITY – April 28, 2026 – Haiqu, a leading developer of quantum middleware, today announced the publication of joint research with HSBC in Physical Review Research demonstrating an efficient approach to encoding real-world probability distributions into quantum circuits.

Quantum state preparation, the process of encoding classical data into quantum states, is widely recognized as a major bottleneck when implementing many quantum algorithms on hardware. This challenge is particularly relevant for applications such as financial risk modelling and simulation, where complex probability distributions must be loaded onto quantum devices.

The research uses matrix product state (MPS) methods to construct shallow quantum circuits that encode smooth functions, including probability distributions, directly into quantum states. It also introduces a sampling-based workflow that avoids storing the full discretized dataset in classical memory, enabling larger encoding circuits to be generated.

The approach was validated on finance-relevant models including heavy-tailed Lévy distributions, commonly used to capture extreme market events. 

On IBM quantum hardware, circuits up to 25 qubits produced samples that passed standard statistical tests, showing the method can accurately reproduce the probability distributions these models rely on in practice. 

Using the sampling-based workflow, the researchers also executed circuits up to 64 qubits, reproducing qualitative features of the target distributions under realistic device noise and demonstrating feasibility at larger scales. Similar behavior was observed in simulations up to 156 qubits, indicating the approach can extend to substantially larger problem sizes.

“Preparing complex probability distributions efficiently is a key step in many quantum algorithms,” said Dr. Philip Intallura, Group Head of Quantum Technologies at HSBC. “This work shows how they can be implemented with much shallower quantum circuits, bringing practical applications such as financial risk modelling closer.”

“One of the biggest practical barriers is getting realistic financial data onto today’s quantum hardware,” said Mykola Maksymenko, Co-founder and CTO of Haiqu. “This work shows a scalable path around that barrier and helps move quantum finance workflows from theory toward execution.”

Read the paper in Physical Review Research.