Travel Trends
Dating safety app Tea suspends messaging after hack

Technology reporter

Messaging has been turned off on the women’s dating safety app Tea, following a hack which has exposed thousands of images, posts and comments.
In a new statement the company said: “As part of our ongoing investigation into the cybersecurity incident involving the Tea App, we have recently learned that some direct messages (DMs) were accessed as part of the initial incident.”
The app, which allows women to do background checks on men they might date, first said it had been hacked in late July.
It’s a US-based women-only app with 1.6 million users, who have been told to expect further updates as more information becomes available.
“Our team remains fully engaged in strengthening the Tea App’s security, and we look forward to sharing more about those enhancements soon,” the company said.
“In the meantime, we are working to identify any users whose personal information was involved and will be offering free identity protection services to those individuals.”
A report from tech publication 404 Media claims some of the exposed messages include sensitive conversations around abortions and infidelity.
“Conversations could include names, details of past relationships, or other private material, opening the door to blackmail or emotional harm,” cybersecurity expert Rachael Percival told the BBC.
She said Tea users should accept free identity protection from the company as soon as it’s offered.
“It may include credit monitoring, fraud alerts, and identity theft insurance,” she said.
Images hacked
Kevin Marriott, senior manager of at cybersecurity firm Immersive, said Tea’s update will be “concerning for users who have shared personal details, addresses, and meet-up locations”.
“The fact that criminals potentially have both images and the associated account’s direct messages should raise the level of concern among users.”
Mr Marriott said users should remain vigilant as they wait to see what hackers plan to do with the stolen information.
Tea lets women check whether potential partners are married or registered sex offenders as well as run reverse image searches to protect against “catfishing”, where people use fake online identities.
One of the most controversial aspects of Tea is that it allows women to share information on men they have dated to “avoid red flags” – potentially abusive behaviours – but also highlight those with “green flag” qualities.
It previously revealed that hackers had accessed 72,000 images submitted by its users.
Some included images of women holding photo identification for verification purposes, which Tea’s own privacy policy promises are “deleted immediately” after authentication.
Tea said the breach affected members who signed up before February 2024.
The app has recently experienced a surge in popularity – as well as criticism from some who claim it is anti-men.
Travel Trends
Top 35 Travel Trends in August

At the forefront of digital innovation, Mindtrip debuts a new AI-powered mobile app, offering real-time, hyper-personalized travel guidance that adapts to users on the go. United Airlines also upgraded its app with a connecting flight-centric feature, simplifying complicated itineraries for smoother travel. Meanwhile, the luxury sector is expanding with a renewed focus on wellbeing. Marriott International’s Luxury Group launched its ‘Luxury Wellbeing Series 2025’ across top Asian destinations, while Loreto’s Mailena, debuting in late summer 2026, introduces a restorative adults-only retreat to Mexico’s Baja Peninsula.
Nostalgia is trending, too as ‘Pan Am Journeys’ by Private Air, under license from the iconic Pan American World Airways, offers retro-inspired, private air travel experiences. Similarly, Carl Friedrik’s ‘Carry-on X Core Collection’ nods to mid-century aviation aesthetics with sleek, functional design. On the water, Viking makes waves by entering the Indian river cruise market with the introduction of the ‘Viking Brahmaputra,’ bringing high-end cruising to the subcontinent. Nox, looking to the future of European rail travel, announces plans for 2027 overnight trains with private, comfort-first cabins—reshaping the night train experience.
On the lifestyle side, Four Seasons adds flair with its ‘Resort Pajamas Collection,’ while Groupe GM and Hei Poa debut a soothing, protective sun care hotel amenity line. Additionally, ‘The Cayman Club’ by Cayman Jack provides travelers with a sense of calm amid travel disruptions, and ‘Camp Unwritten’ by World of Hyatt and Reese’s Book Club invites guests to glamp with books, nature, and luxury.
Altogether, August’s travel trends reflect a traveler mindset increasingly shaped by individuality, relaxation, and meaningful escape—one that seeks not just destinations, but immersive, personal journeys.
Travel Trends
Nepal’s Royal Tulip opens Doors

In a major push to elevate Nepal’s hospitality landscape, Sarovar Hotels—part of the Louvre Hotels Group—has launched Royal Tulip Chitwan, the brand’s premium entry into the country. Situated at the edge of Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the new resort seamlessly blends luxury, nature, and Nepali culture. The opening marks the debut of the Royal Tulip brand in Nepal and signals growing confidence in the country’s tourism potential.
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Developed by KTM Hospitality (a KTM Group Holdings company), the resort spans over 4 acres and offers 65 upscale rooms and villas. Accommodation options include private Pool Villas, serene Water Villas, and unique Machan-style stays that elevate the guest experience. With a focus on nature-inspired design and top-tier comfort, the resort is positioned as an ideal destination for luxury travellers, wildlife enthusiasts, and honeymooners alike.
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Royal Tulip Chitwan goes beyond just accommodation, offering world-class facilities like a luxury spa, fitness centre, swimming pool, and multiple gourmet dining options. Guests can enjoy meals at Majhighar, Forest Flame, the revolving deck Machan, or unwind at the stylish Tanavi Sports Bar. The emphasis is on immersive experiences rooted in local culture and cuisine, combined with global service standards.
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Ajay K. Bakaya, Chairman of Sarovar Hotels, emphasised the strategic significance of this launch, noting Nepal’s increasing appeal among Indian and international tourists. He stated that Royal Tulip Chitwan is designed to offer a luxurious yet culturally authentic retreat. Rameshwar Shah of KTM Hospitality echoed this sentiment, highlighting the resort’s role in promoting Chitwan as a luxury eco-tourism hotspot.
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With this debut, Louvre Hotels Group is expanding its South Asian footprint by targeting high-potential, experience-driven markets. Royal Tulip Chitwan is expected to become a landmark for leisure travel in Nepal, attracting guests seeking a tranquil yet luxurious escape surrounded by nature and culture.
Travel Trends
Wyndham expands in Wayanad Hills

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Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is strengthening its footprint in South India with the upcoming Ramada by Wyndham Wayanad Vythiri, a 52-room upscale hotel scheduled to open in 2026. Nestled in the lush greenery of Vythiri, this property is being developed by local entrepreneur Asok Thirikkoth. The hotel is poised to cater to a growing wave of both domestic and international travellers seeking wellness and nature-driven escapes.
The hotel will feature modern amenities, including a full-service spa, all-day dining, meeting and event spaces, and rooms designed for both leisure and business needs. This launch is expected to enhance the hospitality landscape of Wayanad, a region gaining popularity for eco-tourism and holistic wellness offerings.
Asok Thirikkoth emphasised that the Ramada brand’s arrival aligns with the vision to elevate local tourism. Wyndham’s Rahool Macarius also highlighted Wayanad’s potential as a high-demand destination for eco-conscious travelers, signaling the brand’s long-term commitment to Tier-2 markets.
With over 9,300 hotels globally, Wyndham’s strategic expansion in India continues, reflecting its focus on emerging leisure destinations and robust regional collaborations that prioritise sustainable growth and premium guest experiences.
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