Hanoi - Vietnam: THE ANN HANOI

Located in the central business district, The Ann Hanoi offers unprecedented access to the city's commerce, shopping and dining options.

The hotel offers 108 exquisite guestrooms, including 7 cosy suites - apartments. Completing the experience is The Ann's fully equipped health club with rooftop swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and more.

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CEO SERIES Why Payments Innovation is a Journey, Not a Destination

Meet Rahul Mutha, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Aurus. Mutha founded Aurus in his basement in Long Island back in 2000, and has since turned it into a payments solution provider for Fortune 2000 companies in the retail, financial services and healthcare industries.

Last month, Mutha dropped by the PYMNTS.com office to talk one-on-one with MPD CEO Karen Webster about how retailers are dealing with a “tripod” situation (EMV, breaches and changing consumer demands) and how his company acts as a “high-speed elevator” to retail’s future. This time around, we sat down again with the “operator” of that elevator to find out why Aurus embraces starting out small (with a big vision) in innovation, which companies he believes are best at innovation, and what advice he’d give to young innovators looking to play a role in shaping retail’s future.

How would you define your company’s approach to innovation?

RM: Innovation was the cornerstone for starting Aurus. Our company is always in search of new problems and challenges with the payments and other industries we serve. Our customers are the greatest source of ideas as well as strategic partners. We then create a “Big Vision” to develop a new solution, but start executing on a small scale. We take incremental steps to solving the challenges and perfect the process along the way. We realize innovation is not a “destination” but an ongoing journey to perfection. As a privately held business, we are able to reinvest a large portion of our profits into developing new solutions while taking a long-term view on delivering an ROI. This creates an intellectually challenging and fun place to work, attracting highly talented software engineers.

What is the most innovative thing that you have introduced into the market and what value did it deliver to the stakeholder group that was its target?
RM: Aurus has developed many innovative and leading-edge solutions over the past decade, including AurusPay®, our 5th generation platform; ‘pay-at-the-pump” mobile wallet; BYOD mobile checkout; and geo-targeting applications. More recently, we developed AurusShield®, our patented secure payment application that is solving the challenges being faced by retailers to protect their payment data against the threat of malware attacks. A data breach can result in substantial loss of revenue, drive customers to competitors and sometimes even result in bankruptcy. AurusShield is an innovative approach in the marketplace, and keeps our customers ahead of the cybercriminals while preparing them for EMV, mobile commerce and other innovative payment solutions.

Where do you look for innovative ideas and why?
RM: Aurus looks everywhere for innovative ideas. First, we try to identify and especially anticipate growing needs in the payment and mobile commerce space. Our clients provide one of the best sources for our innovation. Aurus aggressively focuses on attracting clients who are hungry for innovative solutions to their problems and partner with us during the innovation process. The clients look to us to solve their challenging problems, something that becomes an exhilarating adventure for the Aurus engineering team.

What do you think that most people underestimate about innovating in payments?

RM: Innovators and the general public do not have a detailed understanding of the complexities of the payment infrastructure. The payment process has been evolving over the past 5 decades. There are many stakeholders involved in the process including, bank issuers, processors, networks (Visa, MasterCard, Amex), and merchants. All of the stakeholders have made investments in technology and processes over the years. Innovators often design new solutions, which require large investments on behalf of the stakeholders, to implement. Our approach is to develop solutions that adapt to the existing infrastructure, minimizing or eliminating the need for change in the existing payment process.

What person or company do you think “gets” innovation and why – and, conversely, who or what has missed it and why?

RM: Samsung and Apple seem to be the leaders at the forefront of mobile innovation. On a fairly consistent basis, they are able to develop a new mobile device with incremental and in many cases significant innovative features. In addition, they are leveraging their product lines to deliver new and integrated platforms to address the evolving needs of people on the go. Both companies are starting to branch out into wearable technology, which might enable us to live healthier lives.

On the other hand, RIM, the founders of Blackberry phone, is a good example of an innovator who has lost their way. RIM failed to realize that innovation is a journey, not a destination.

What advice would you give a young innovator in this space and why would you tell her to heed it?

RM: We encourage innovators that have new ideas. There are many cases where we invest with them to bring them to market. The best advice we give our innovating partners is to make sure they are solving a real problem or need. Think big with a grand vision, but focus the company’s innovation on a small, highly targeted element of the problem. Finally, always double the amount of time you think it should take to bring your new innovation to life.

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Top 10 best places to visit in Scotland

Scotland, a land of legend, a complex history and some of the best scenery in the world, aroused the passion of adventure in each of us. The famous epic "Braveheart" also was inspired by the scene in Scotland. Actually this is a suitable place for all people, Scotland is a small country the always leave a great impact on all who have ever been to.

Here are the top 10 best places to visit in Scotland

1. Stone House in Mousa

One of the well-preserved stone houses in the Shetland Islands, this impressive structure is a circular tower lined with stones inside and outside to provide optimal defense strength. The tower was built around the year 100 BC and is the only stone house is completed first.

2. Melrose Abbey

Melrose Abbey was founded in 1136 by Xitô monks, at the request of King David I of Scotland. This works great with the masonic lavish décor is said to keep the heart is marinated of Robert the Bruce, King of Scotland. Really is a place of legend, Melrose Abbey is one of the most important historical architecture in Scotland.

3. Cuillin Hills

Located on the northern island of Skye, the beauty of the peaks stretch of Hills Cuiillin is undeniable.The Hill is formed from two diverse shapes. The Red Cuiillins red granite formation, look more attractive than the black Cuillins, jagged volcanic peaks in the horizon mighty feeling, the feeling of fear the ghost.

4. Skara Brae

Skara Brae located on the Bay of Skaill, Orkney Islands in the North East of Scotland, is a settlement of Neolithic period stone houses eight was used between 2,500 and 3,200 BC. This ancient settlement is the village of stone the best preserved in Northern Europe. Not only the walls still stand, which a covered walkway with their stone well intact, interior fittings of each provider gives us an interesting perspective on the lives of the people living there more than 5,000 years ago.

5. Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is one of the most beautiful castles of Scotland. Located on the high vertical rocks of the Castle Hill, it is a solid defensive positions along the steep cliffs around. Experience the art, culture and the State spanning the 16th century in Scotland. History lovers will not want to miss this popular tourist destination.

6. Luskentyre Beach

Luskentyre beach is located on the spectacular western coast south of Harris in the Outer Hebrides.One of the most beautiful areas of the Scottish coast, sea green, shimmer with smooth sand and green hillsides. Tranquility and timeless, Luskentyre Beach has been voted Britain's best beach.
7. Loch Ness

One of the most famous Lake in the world, the Lake Loch Ness is the second largest lake in Scotland after the Loch Lomond. About a mile wide, Loch Ness holding most of the legend about a sea monster. The most famous mythological creatures in modern times, Nessie, is said to live in the Lake.With a mysterious atmosphere, attractive area of Loch Ness is not to be missed. You can even see Nessie if lucky!

8. Ben Nevis

Located deep in the Highlands of Scotland, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain peak in the Islands in the UK. Beautiful and mysterious history, Ben Nevis are very attracted to people watching, hiking and mountain climbing is the sport in line with the tranquility of the surrounding nature. The mountain can be approached through an artificial path zig zag to the South side of it, while the rock face on the northwest side of the mountain for those who experienced mountain climbers.

9. Eilean Donan

Eilean Donan is a small island in Loch Duich, Highlands of Western Scotland. Connected to the Mainland by a bridge, the island was controlled by a medieval castle in the picturesque. This castle was originally built in the early 13th century to fight against the Vikings. Today, the castle is one of the most photographed monuments in Scotland and is a popular venue for weddings as well as filming locations. It has appeared in movies such as Highlander and The World Is Not Enough.

10. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is an excellent example of Scottish architecture, it is also an important military area. Located high on top of a volcano has ceased operations as the Castle dominating this time. Its presence can be seen for miles away from every direction. Threatens all who dare to challenge Scotland, EdinburghCastle is used for all their major battles and a strategic military planning. A powerful status symbol of perseverance and struggle for independence, the Edinburgh Castle is one of the top tourist destinations inScotland.

We hopes the above information useful for you. And wish you have a fun and happy trip to Scotland.

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10 best places to visit in Russia before you die (Part 2)

Russia is one of the countries in the West, culture was whole human admiration and pride. Russia is also a famous trading center in the world. It also reunited much of the fashion brand reputation. Russian culture over many centuries to date still be quite a lot of sightseeing attractions.

So, We will give 10 best places to visit in Russia before you die.

6. St. Sophia Cathedral

Situated in Novgorod, the oldest city of Russia, Saint Sophia Cathedral located within the city of palaces. A height of 125 feet and is decorated with 5 spectacular dome, is the oldest church in Russia. Saint Sophia Cathedral has an array of ancient religious artifacts, most of which you are the statue. The door of the church had marked dating from the 12th century

7. Kizhi Island

Kizhi Island is the address known to the large open-air museum incredible. Karelians area inhabited since the 13th century, where cultural exchanges between East and West. Museum of Church is a well-known works by 22 arches and a rich collection of antiques. The other attractive tourist destinations including dozens of wooden houses, windmills, churches and warehouses. The folk culture is expressed through craft demonstrations.

8. Valley Geysers

Located on the Kamchatka Peninsula in the Russian Far East,  Geyser Valley is considered the second largest in the world. Valley of Geysers was discovered in 1941 by scientists Tatyana Ustinova local. Since then it has become a tourist attraction in Kamchatka most popular and attracted a lot of interest from scientists.

9. Mount Elbrus

Elbrus is located in the Caucasus Mountains in southern Russia. High 5642 m (18,510 ft), Elbrus is also where ever held the summit, where attract experienced climbers and beginners. Peaks are formed from a volcano, is no longer active lava eruption. Cable car system can take visitors to a height of 3.800m (12,500 ft), creating favorable conditions for climbers.

10. Trans-Siberian Railway

As part of the system of the world's longest railway, the Trans-Siberian Railway runs neck from Moscow to Vladivostok, a city near Russia's border with China and North Korea. Construction began in 1891 by Tsar Alexander III and the work completed by his son, Tsar Nicholas II in 1916, known as the route of the Tsar. Most tourists use the train all night at one of the many stops. Boats equipped with a private bathroom with shower.

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10 best places to visit in Russia before you die (Part 1)

Russia is one of the countries in the West, culture was whole human admiration and pride. Russia is also a famous trading center in the world. It also reunited much of the fashion brand reputation. Russian culture over many centuries to date still be quite a lot of sightseeing attractions.

So, we will give 10 best places to visit in Russia before you die.

1. Saint Basil's Cathedral

St. Basil's Cathedral is considered one of the top tourist attraction in Russia. It attracts not for luxury furniture, which is a special architecture of the church. Designed like the shape of a flame, this architecture was repaired later renovations. However, no work on earth like St. Basil's Cathedral.

2. Hermitage Museum

 Founded in 1764 by Catherine the great,  Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia is a museum of art and culture with the largest collection of over 3 million large works worldwide. The collections occupy a large space of six historic buildings including the Winter Palace, the residence of the Russian emperors.

3. The Kremlin

 The Kremlin is a special attraction for anyone visiting Moscow. Place for the leading government agencies of the country, electricity is surrounded by walls and four churches built in the 15th century. There are also some notable museum is the building of 250 acres filled with royal treasures and diamond exhibition, including a 190-carat diamond of Catherine the Great.

4. Suzdal

Which is a country of Russia, Suzdal is the jewel of Russia's "Golden Ring," many believe that this city has been preserved as a living museum of the past of Russian culture. Those who want to learn about the history of Russian architecture, please come here. The domed palaces, churches and monasteries to be found in Suzdal. The city has a history since 1024, the whole city is like a huge open-air museum, where time seems to stop.

5. Lake Baikal

Many tourists on the Trans-Siberian railway plans to stop at Lake Baikal, the deepest lake and the oldest on Earth. Lake Baikal contains about 20% of the world's fresh water. Located in Siberia, Lake has date 25 million years old, surrounded by mountains. Known as the pearl of Siberia, Lake Baikal is a resort and also a popular tourist destination.

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Top 10 best places to visit in Scotland

Scotland, a land of legend, a complex history and some of the best scenery in the world, aroused the passion of adventure in each of us. The famous epic "Braveheart" also was inspired by the scene inScotland. Actually this is a suitable place for all people, Scotland is a small country the always leave a great impact on all who have ever been to.

Here are the top 10 best places to visit in Scotland

1. Stone House in Mousa

One of the well-preserved stone houses in the Shetland Islands, this impressive structure is a circular tower lined with stones inside and outside to provide optimal defense strength. The tower was built around the year 100 BC and is the only stone house is completed first.

2. Melrose Abbey

Melrose Abbey was founded in 1136 by Xitô monks, at the request of King David I of Scotland. This works great with the masonic lavish décor is said to keep the heart is marinated of Robert the Bruce, King ofScotland. Really is a place of legend, Melrose Abbey is one of the most important historical architecture inScotland.

3. Cuillin Hills

Located on the northern island of Skye, the beauty of the peaks stretch of Hills Cuiillin is undeniable.The Hill is formed from two diverse shapes. The Red Cuiillins red granite formation, look more attractive than the black Cuillins, jagged volcanic peaks in the horizon mighty feeling, the feeling of fear the ghost.

4. Skara Brae

Skara Brae located on the Bay of Skaill, Orkney Islands in the North East of Scotland, is a settlement of Neolithic period stone houses eight was used between 2,500 and 3,200 BC. This ancient settlement is the village of stone the best preserved in Northern Europe. Not only the walls still stand, which a covered walkway with their stone well intact, interior fittings of each provider gives us an interesting perspective on the lives of the people living there more than 5,000 years ago.

5. Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is one of the most beautiful castles of Scotland. Located on the high vertical rocks of the Castle Hill, it is a solid defensive positions along the steep cliffs around. Experience the art, culture and the State spanning the 16th century in Scotland. History lovers will not want to miss this popular tourist destination.

6. Luskentyre Beach

Luskentyre beach is located on the spectacular western coast south of Harris in the Outer Hebrides.One of the most beautiful areas of the Scottish coast, sea green, shimmer with smooth sand and green hillsides. Tranquility and timeless, Luskentyre Beach has been voted Britain's best beach.

7. Loch Ness

One of the most famous Lake in the world, the Lake Loch Ness is the second largest lake in Scotland after the Loch Lomond. About a mile wide, Loch Ness holding most of the legend about a sea monster. The most famous mythological creatures in modern times, Nessie, is said to live in the Lake.With a mysterious atmosphere, attractive area of Loch Ness is not to be missed. You can even see Nessie if lucky!

8. Ben Nevis

Located deep in the Highlands of Scotland, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain peak in the Islands in the UK. Beautiful and mysterious history, Ben Nevis are very attracted to people watching, hiking and mountain climbing is the sport in line with the tranquility of the surrounding nature. The mountain can be approached through an artificial path zig zag to the South side of it, while the rock face on the northwest side of the mountain for those who experienced mountain climbers.

9. Eilean Donan

Eilean Donan is a small island in Loch Duich, Highlands of Western Scotland. Connected to the Mainland by a bridge, the island was controlled by a medieval castle in the picturesque. This castle was originally built in the early 13th century to fight against the Vikings. Today, the castle is one of the most photographed monuments in Scotland and is a popular venue for weddings as well as filming locations. It has appeared in movies such as Highlander and The World Is Not Enough.

10. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is an excellent example of Scottish architecture, it is also an important military area. Located high on top of a volcano has ceased operations as the Castle dominating this time. Its presence can be seen for miles away from every direction. Threatens all who dare to challenge Scotland, EdinburghCastle is used for all their major battles and a strategic military planning. A powerful status symbol of perseverance and struggle for independence, the Edinburgh Castle is one of the top tourist destinations inScotland.

We hopes the above information useful for you. And wish you have a fun and happy trip to Scotland.

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Top 10 tourist attractions in Singapore ( Part 1)

Singapore attracts tourists by the beauty of the mix of cultures Asia - Europe. Although the Singapore government is relatively strict with residents and tourists, but surely you will be hard to resist the enchanting beauty of this multicultural country.

Here are top 10 tourist attractions in Singapore :

1.The shopping boulevard Orchard

Orchard Road is a haven of entertainment and Singapore's main shopping, popular with both local residents and foreign tourists. Along the road are numerous commercial centers, many luxurious restaurants, a chain of cafes, bars and flashy hotels. This region is the most advanced and fashionable in Singapore.

2. Resorts World Sentosa

Located on Sentosa Island off Singapore's south, integrated resort restaurants, luxury hotels, casinos and amusement parks; suitable destination for travelers regardless of age. You will have fun and explore while visiting the island of Singapore Marine Park Marine Life Park, Dolphin Island, a water park and aquarium artificial. The highlight at Resorts World Sentosa's Universal Studios parks in Singapore cinema, attractions with games and programs based on a series of Hollywood blockbusters promise to provide guests with the experience unexpected and exciting more than ever.

3. Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay is part of Singapore's past still exist to this day. As one of the key tourist destinations of the country, Clarke Quay bustle with a variety of antique shops, unique fashion boutiques, trendy cafes, jazz clubs ... This is a picture of cultural entertaining and colorful cuisine Asia - Europe.

4. Raffles Hotel

Famous Raffles Hotel style charming colonial longer considered valuable heritage jewel of Singapore. Hotels in operation since 1887, and is the destination of many famous writers such as Rudyard Kipling, Somerset Maugham and Ernest Hemingway. Raffles has 15 restaurants and bars, including the famous Long Bar to remind - the birthplace of the Singapore Sling cocktail legends.

5. Gardens by the Bay

Wonders "Gardens by the Bay" is a new tourist attraction of the island nation of Singapore. The park is located in the heart of the city, consists of 3 main areas: Bay Central, Bay East and Bay South. Gardens by the Bay is famous by the "super trees" giant with a height of 20-25m and artistic light every night. You will be truly amazed at the size and the creativity of the people of Singapore.

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