Author: Gill Dewar

Visit Portugal launches new wine focus

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Visit Portugal has launched a new digital platform focused on the wine industry.

The website which aims to position Portugal as a world leading wine tourism destination.

It provides a unique way to discover Portugal through its wines and embrace the culture of the country.

The new campaign – ‘Portugal Pairs with Wine’ – is an initiative under a wine tourism action plan created to boost awareness of the outstanding wine sector, attract visitors to rural areas year-round and build bridges between the different economic sectors.

The new digital platform means visitors can access and experience the excitement and history of winemaking in Portugal through numerous wine pairing tourism experiences throughout the country.

Featured activities include carriage rides with wine pairing, a bicycle tour in the Vinho Verde region, grape harvesting in Alentejo and a hiking trail along the Caminhos de Santa Luzia – Pico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From the charming province of Minho where the vinho verde grapes grow in abundance on trellises to the rolling historic terraces of the Douro River Valley, Portugal offers beautiful, verdant landscapes of the wine-making regions.

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Amazing Travel Facts Ecuador

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Ecuador

Did you know that there is a group of islands, on which Darwin’s famous book “The origin of the Species” was based? He noticed that the animals were similar from island to island, but perfectly adapted to their surroundings. His book in 1859 completely changed people’s views on the origins of life.
 
Amazing, right?
 
Darwin’s visit to the Galapagos Islands had a resounding impact on the formation of his Theory of Natural Selection.
 
A rather unmotivated and failing medical scholar, Charles Darwin accompanied Captain Robert Fitzroy as a travel companion and naturalist on the HMS Beagle.
 
His book the Voyage of the Beagle is an account of his worldwide journey.
 
When setting off from England in 1831 for a five-year voyage, Darwin had little ambitions for ground-breaking scientific research.
 
After surveying the coasts of South America, the ship stopped over in the Galapagos Islands.
 
During his visit to the islands, Darwin noted that the unique creatures were similar from island to island, but perfectly adapted to their environments which led him to ponder the origin of the islands’ inhabitants.
 
Among those that struck Darwin so greatly were the finches that are now named in his honour. Darwin would later base some of his thought from the supposing that these finches were all descendants of the same lineage.
 
Years later in 1859, Darwin finally consolidated all of his observations into his famous book On The Origin of Species, drastically and controversially altering the scientific view on the biological origins of life.
 
 

Machu Picchu Creates History, Attains Carbon Neutral Certificate

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For all the travel junkies, here’s a piece of good news. In a recent development, Machu Picchu is now the first international destination to attain the carbon neutral certificate.

What does this mean? In simple terms, the certification was presented to the Historic and Natural Sanctuary of Machu Picchu by the Green Initiative – an institution that is known to promote green and environmentally friendly tourism. Besides, the Green Initiative placed Machu Picchu as a global reference for sustainability.

Reportedly, as per the certification, it pursues to radically reduce carbon dioxide emissions of the Inca citadel, with the purpose of reducing 45% of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in 2030, and reaching neutrality in 2050.

What were the factors considered?

One of the world famous destinations, Machu Picchu achieved this milestone by implementing several environment-conscious initiatives. This popular tourist spot got the certification for setting up what is said to be the the only organic waste treatment plant in Peru. This was done with an aim to transform garbage into natural coal, and for having the transformation plant of oil that produces biodiesel and glycerine from vegetable oils, discarded from homes and restaurants in the area.

Another way to compensate for the impact of CO2 emissions will be by purchasing carbon credits, which incentivize bodies to find solutions to reduce their emissions. According to reports, UN’s Climate Change model, will oversee this mechanism

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Small Luxury Hotels of the World launches Considerate Collection

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Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) has launched Considerate Collection.

A release described the new venture as a “community of actively sustainable luxury hotels going the extra eco-mile, proving that luxury is compatible with longevity”.

From the biodiversity-promoting Keemala in Thailand to the culture-preserving Gangtey Lodge in carbon-negative Bhutan, Considerate Collection debuts with 26 pioneering hotels in 16 countries.

SLH has collaborated with the most respectable sustainable travel and luxury hospitality players to create a trusted and transparent framework. 

These include Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) – the international, independent, not-for-profit body established by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO); and Greenview, whose platform is the only GSTC-recognised sustainable tourism management tool.

“Staying in small, independent hotels goes hand in hand with travelling sustainably and all SLH hotels are already steeped in the many facets of sustainable hospitality, so we haven’t had to look far outside of our portfolio for the launch collection.

“We also have an exciting pipeline of new hotels to add in the coming months.”

He added: “This is not about creating a new brand, but rather building on the strong brand values that have existed within SLH since inception – independent spirits, community-centric, questioners, storytellers and the ultimate belief that Small is beautiful and a better way to travel.”

Currently, with a luxury hotel portfolio of over 520 hotels in 90 countries, SLH has taken a holistic approach to sustainability to complement its long-term brand vision – a future where people explore the world with intention, experience its intensity, and protect its integrity.

Randy Durband, chief executive of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, said: “SLH has impressed us with their dedicated support of their member hotels, and we are delighted to collaborate with them to devise a robust framework, consistent with GSTC measures but uniquely matched for all luxury boutique hotels. 

“We are sure it will be a huge success.”

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Disney World Is Celebrating Its 50th Anniversary

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On Oct. 1, 1971, Walt Disney World Resort welcomed guests to “The Most Magical Place on Earth” for the first time; 50 years later, “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” commemorates the decades of memories and ushers in a future of continued excitement with a spectacular combination of Disney nostalgia and new, over-the-top experiences. For five decades, millions of guests have visited the theme park resort to ride iconic attractions, see their favourite characters, and feel that unparalleled Disney magic.

Disney is celebrating its anniversary with an 18-month-long event, which kicked off this week with the grand opening of new night time spectaculars, restaurants, and a “Ratatouille”-themed ride. At Epcot, a recently expanded France pavilion offers a new, family-friendly attraction, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and a tasty restaurant, La Crêperie de Paris. Also at Epcot, a new night time spectacular, “Harmonious,” celebrates the unifying power of Disney music and storytelling by highlighting beloved films that take place around the globe. The show uses fireworks, massive LED panels, choreographed fountains, and much more to breathe new life into the songs Disney fans know and love.

At Magic Kingdom Park, another incredible night time spectacular debuted on Oct. 1. “Disney Enchantment” takes guests on an inspiring and moving adventure featuring favourite stories through fireworks, music, lighting, and projections on Cinderella Castle and Main Street, U.S.A.. Over at Animal Kingdom, guests can find new daytime entertainment — “Disney KiteTails” — with flying windcatchers and kites depicting animals from Disney movies.
 
In all four theme parks, guests can spot the golden sculptures that make up the Disney Fab 50 Character Collection. And at night, each park’s icon transforms into a “Beacon of Magic,” illuminated in the “EARidescent” glow that’s shining on decorations, merchandise, Mickey and pals’ new celebratory outfits, and even food and beverage offerings during the event.
Speaking of food and beverage, there are plenty of delicious and delightful options across the resort, ranging from retro-inspired theme park classics to tasty new cocktails. At Magic Kingdom Park, guests can find treats influenced by 1970s attractions, like The Toad Burger inspired by Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, the Happy Haunts Milkshake inspired by the Haunted Mansion, and Squids Revenge inspired by 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Other 50th anniversary treats are also available across the theme parks, hotels, and Disney Springs. There’s even a new Magical Beacon Cocktail served at locations throughout Walt Disney World — the perfect drink to mark the occasion. Out-of-this-world Space 220 restaurant opened this month in Epcot, offering a stellar experience aboard the Centauri Space Station, and at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, guests can find the new Steakhouse 71 restaurant.
 
And there’s even more magic to come. Throughout the 50th anniversary celebration, guests can look forward to more exciting openings, including the highly-anticipated Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, set to open on March 1, 2022, and the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind indoor coaster, set to open at Epcot some point in 2022.

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Emirates unveils latest Dubai Expo 2020 livery

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Emirates has revealed a head-turning A380 livery dedicated to carrying the messages of Dubai Expo 2020 worldwide.

A bold departure from the airline’s traditional white and gold paint scheme, the bright blue aircraft livery features large-scale graphics in vivid green, orange, pink, purple and red.

The scheme runs across the fuselage and all the way up to the tail and fin, interlaced with the distinct ring-shaped Expo 2020 Dubai logo.

Special ‘Dubai Expo’ and ‘Be Part of the Magic’ messages run across both sides of the fuselage.

The engine cowls also carry the Expo 2020 Dubai messages and dates of the event.

The Emirates red belly branding, which can be only seen when the aircraft is flying overhead, has been replaced by the opportunity-themed orange ‘Dubai Expo’ branding.

It is not just a decal, but a complete paint project, and is by far the largest the airline has ever embarked on.

The paint on A6EEU, the aircraft chosen for the livery, was completely stripped.

After that, eleven colours were applied on the aircraft in a careful, methodically sequenced manner.

A ‘wild spray method,’ electrostatic spray guns and conventional cup guns were used to put on the different colours, using over 2,500 sqm of tracing and masking material.

Decals were then applied on the engine cowls and, as well as the image of the Emirates cabin crew holding the message boards adjacent to the aircraft’s exits.

The process of painting the livery design and applying the decals took 16 days and 4,379 man-hours to complete.

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Gulf Air lands in Tel Aviv for the first time

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Gulf Air has commenced a commercial service between Bahrain and Tel Aviv.

Flight GF972 took off from Bahrain International Airport at 10:40 on Thursday and arrived at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv later this same day.

The inaugural flight carried officials from Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority, the National Communications Centre and members of the executive management from the airline.

The flight is the start of two weekly services between Bahrain and Israel, deploying the newest Airbus fleet operated by the national carrier of Bahrain.

During an arrival event at Ben Gurion Airport, Gulf Air acting chief executive, Waleed Al Alawi, said: “Today we are making history by connecting the Kingdom of Bahrain and the State of Israel with scheduled commercial flights.

“The double weekly flights are just the start, and we will periodically assess the commercial performance to upgrade frequencies whenever feasible and required.”

Back in December, Gulf Air signed five commercial agreements with five different Israeli aviation-related companies.

These included a comprehensive memorandum for a potential joint codeshare and commercial cooperation with El Al, a general sales agent agreement with TAL Aviation and a line maintenance agreement with Israel Aerospace Industries, among others.

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andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge to open in 2022

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andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp in Tanzania is to undergo an extensive rebuild.

The property will emerge with a brand-new identity as andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge.

“andBeyond Grumeti was originally built in the early 1990s,” explained Niall Anderson, andBeyond chief operating officer, Africa lodges.

“While it has since undergone two refurbishments, when the Grumeti River burst its banks and the lodge was flooded in April 2020, we decided that it was time for a comprehensive rebuild.”

With interior design by Fox Browne Creative and architectural design by Jack Alexander, the rebuild will utilise the existing footprint of the former structure to redefine the classical tented camp look in a form that will least impact the natural landscape.

“We feel that what has always set the lodge apart is its magnificent setting on a tributary of the Grumeti River,” added Anderson.

“Our brief to the design team was to create spaces that would bring guests even closer to these riverside views, connecting them to nature while ensuring a sense of understated luxury.”

Drawing inspiration from the natural setting, the main guest areas will form a single sweeping arc that will follow the contours of the river, creating a series of sitting and dining areas that will flow naturally together.

The design will provide shelter from the environment while retaining a wide open and natural feel.

More than doubled in size, the guest suites will feature raised ceilings and taller doors, allowing for an abundance of natural light.

Canvas, banana fibre and hardwood cladding will add a layer of richness and call to mind the design of the original camp.

Guest suites will now also feature deep baths and indoor showers, as well as extensive outdoor decks with private plunge pools.

A family suite, which features an additional attached bedroom, will also be added to the lodge offering.

All buildings will be constructed from lightweight steel frames clad in canvas and sustainably sourced local hardwood.

An extended selection of experiences is also being developed in time for the launch of the lodge, which will reopen on June 6th next year.

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Colombia’s Post-Outbreak Tourism Strategy Focused on Six Cities

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Colombia’s national focus on environmental sustainability isn’t just a tourism strategy, it’s national policy. Now officials at ProColombia, the country’s destination marketing agency, are using that mandate as a roadmap to form tourism-rebuilding initiatives following the pandemic’s outbreak.

ProColombia is focusing promotional programs on six regions that showcase the country’s world-leading biodiversity and distinctive cultural attractions and experiences rooted in Colombia’s indigenous music, gastronomy, artistry and historic sites.

“We are committed to a new way of working with the country’s regions to position Colombia as ideal for international travellers by empowering new segments such as nautical, archaeological and community-based tourism,” said Flavia Santoro, president of ProColombia.

Travel to the destination is rebounding strongly following the outbreak, Santoro said, led by visitors from the U.S. Colombia has hosted 172,000 American visitors to date in 2021, a 16.6 percent increase over pandemic-stricken 2020.

“This makes the U.S. the only country with positive numbers of travelers to Colombia between 2020 and 2021,” said Santoro. “Colombia is well-connected to the U.S. and has already recovered more than 60 percent of the [airline] connectivity we had in February of 2020.”

Colombia reopened its borders to international flights on September 21, 2020, after launching a national pandemic recovery plan that includes “the implementation of biosafety parameters for travellers,” said Santoro.

Since last year, 13 new airline routes between Colombia and the United States have been announced, connecting U.S. cities including Miami, Newark, New York and Orlando with Bogota, Medellin, Cali and Cartagena, Colombia.

Safe Passage

Santoro said Colombia’s health and safety measures have enabled travellers to safely return to the country. She said 38 million vaccines have been applied in Colombia, whose population totals 50.4 million residents. “The country has made it easy for travellers to enter Colombia,” Santoro said.

Indeed, Colombia’s entry process is relatively simple. Visitors are not required to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result to enter the country. Travelers who experience coronavirus symptoms during or 14 days after their inbound flight are required to report it to the local health authorities and isolate immediately.

Special Six

In terms of tourism promotion, Santoro said ProColombia is focusing on six regions of the country. “We are concentrating on attracting tourism that benefits not only travellers, but travel companies, the environment and the community,” Santoro said.

The Greater Colombian Caribbean, described by officials as the land of Nobel Prize-winning Colombian author Gabriel Garcia Marquez, features rainforests, snow-capped peaks and desert dunes, and is home to cities including Cartagena, Santa Marta, Barranquilla and San Andres Island.

The Western Andes region is highlighted by Colombia’s coffee route and features mountains, exotic birds and flower-covered valleys in cities including Medellin and Pereira. Described as the centre of Colombia’s colonial past and its struggle for liberation, the eastern Andes region is distinguished by soaring mountains and expansive national parks in Bogota, Villa de Leyva and Bucaramanga.

“We are concentrating on attracting tourism that benefits not only travellers, but travel companies, the environment and the community.” – Flavia Santoro, president of Pro Colombia. (Photo by Brian Major)

Colombia’s Massif region encompasses paramos, volcanoes and the country’s largest rivers, with accessible evidence of ancient Colombian civilizations in archaeological parks and indigenous communities in the Popayan and Pasto regions. The Colombian Amazon is an immense centre of biodiverse rainforests and white water rapids.

Described by officials as Colombia’s “best-kept secret,” the country’s Pacific coast features rainforests leading to the ocean where visitors can view humpback whales and sea turtles. The region has a distinctive African heritage maintained by the present-day residents of Cali, Nuquí and on Gorgona Island.

The natural and cultural attractions combine with practical advantages, Santoro said. “Colombia is the most biodiverse country per square meter in the world according to the United Nations,” she said. “We also have connectivity, accessibility, a favourable exchange rate and a culture of service.”

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Sunway Hotel Big Box to Debut in Southern Malaysia

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September 30, 2021 – Sunway Hospitality has announced the launch of its first hotel in southern Malaysia. The 284-room Sunway Hotel Big Box will debut in Johor on October 1. Located in Sunway City Iskandar Puteri, an 1,800-acre integrated township with residential, hospitality, retail, educational and medical elements, the hotel is surrounded by mangrove forests and is easily accessible via Senai International AirportPuteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal and the Coastal Highway Southern Link from Singapore, which is just three miles away.

Suitable for couples, families and corporate groups, the hotel offers eco-activities in over 1,800 acres of wild, green space, which includes cycling paths, hiking trails and other soon-to-be-revealed activities. Alternatively, ATV driving, go-karting, paintballing, indoor snowboarding and more can be enjoyed at X-Park, which is within walking distance of the hotel, and retail therapy is available at the Sunway Big Box Retail Park, an open-air mall which covers 500,000 square feet of space and offers numerous retail, F&B and entertainment outlets, including 13 large warehouse-style concept stores.

Guests can choose from five categories of accommodation, all of which are designed with contemporary interiors, complimentary Wi-Fi, smart flat-screen IPTV, mini fridges, coffee and tea-making facilities and sofa beds in select categories. Each hotel room will also provide reusable, sanitized and sealed stainless-steel bottles, with water dispensers on every floor, and guest bathrooms will have organic shampoo and bath gel in recyclable containers, reducing the need for single-use plastics and helping to eliminate non-degradable waste. In the lobby, a self-check-in kiosk will expedite the arrival process, while also reducing the hotel’s paper usage.

During the soft-opening phase later this year, guests will be able to book the 345-square-foot Deluxe King or Twin Rooms, which can host up to two adults and two children, or the 614-square-foot Family Suites, which have a separate living space, two bathrooms, a bedroom with a super king or twin beds, a sofa bed, capsule coffee machine and microwave.

Other amenities at the hotel include an outdoor pool and children’s pool, a 24-hour fitness center and a pool bar. The Pendas Café serves local and international cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a 24-hour in-room dining menu, while a bridge offers direct connections to many additional F&B options at Sunway Big Box Retail Park.

For corporate travellers and event planners, Sunway Hotel Big Box has three flexible meeting rooms that can accommodate between 20 and 300 people, with an LED video wall and mobile 86-inch interactive touch screen Smart Panel.

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Korea Announces Plans to Host Yeosu World Island Exhibition in 2026

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Korea will debut a new international event – the Yeosu World Island Exhibition, to be held in 2026. The decision was announced on August 9th after the exhibition passed the screening process by the Ministry of Strategy and Finance.

Located in Korea’s island-filled south coast, the city of Yeosu is a scenic coastal retreat which served as the host city for the 2012 World Expo, attracting an estimated 7 million visitors from around the world. Since the expo, the city served as a popular incentive tourism destination, attracting large-scale incentive travel groups from Infinitus and Amway in 2014. The city is also in close proximity to Suncheon, home to the new UNESCO World Heritage, ‘Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats’.

The ‘2026 Yeosu World Island Exhibition’ will be held in Yeosu’s Dolsan Jinmo District from July 17 to August 16, 2026, under the theme ‘Connecting the Island, Sea and the Future’. The exhibition will feature eight permanent exhibition halls showcasing the future, culture and ecology of the island as well as special tours including the Yeondo Bridge Tour and Healing Island Tour.

The city of Yeosu anticipates more than 2 million visitors from 30 countries to attend the Yeosu World Island Exhibition, and the event is estimated to create over 6,000 jobs and create an economic ripple effect of more than 400 billion won. With official approval from the government, Jeollanam-do Province and Yeosu City will begin preparation for the exhibition at full speed, including content development, establishing organizing committees, and domestic and international promotion.

Kwon O-bong, Mayor of Yeosu City, stated, “The Yeosu World Island Exhibition is the world’s first festival for countries with islands to gather and share the history and culture of islands. We will use this opportunity to develop Yeosu into a world-class marine tourism resort city.”

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Where in the World Greece

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Do you recognise this hilltop monastery?

The site where the monasteries of Meteora, Greece were built, is said to serve perfectly their purpose.
 
The monasteries stand on some huge natural sandstone pillars that were mould into their bizarre shape by the winds and the time. Up there, the monasteries seem to hover between earth and heaven, an illusion that makes monks and visitors feel close to the celestial world. These cone shaped pillars prove the artistic nature of Nature.
 
According to the 19th century geologist Alexander Philipson, they were created after huge amounts of material piled up in this area where a huge prehistoric river was flowing towards a vast lake which covered today’s Thessaly.
 
When the waters drained into the Aegean Sea and the valley of Thessaly was revealed, these rocks emerged and the millennia along with the extreme weather conditions formed them into their today’s shape.
The first evidence of ascetic life in Meteora dates back in the 10th century, when some hermit monks chose the caves and the hollows in the pillars’ walls to lead an ascetic and reclusive lifestyle. In 1160 A.D. the “Scete of Stagoi Dhoupianis” was found, which is considered to be the first attempt of an organized monastic community.
 
However, it needed more than two centuries for the first monastery to be built. In 1356, Athanasios Meteoritis, a monk from Aghion Oros, came to Meteora and built on the top of the largest cliff the “Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of Jesus” or “Great Meteoron”. From then on, these huge rocks were named after this exact monastery and took the name “Meteora”, which in Greek means: an object that levitates.
 
 

Where is hot in October according to Conde Nast Traveller

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The Maldives Is Getting Another Stunning Hotel on a Private Island

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The rebranding of the Kanuhara resort will be complete in 2022.

Six Senses is known for bringing upscale amenities, exclusive experiences, and a relaxing atmosphere everywhere it opens a new hotel. And since few places exude more luxury than the Maldives, the brand is getting ready to debut its second property in the idyllic destination.

Instead of building from the group up, however, Six Senses will work on its second collaboration with Singapore-based Hotel Properties Limited (HPL) to rebrand the already popular Kanuhura resort.

Encompassing three private islands — two deserted neighboring islands and Kanuhura itself — the property will offer the Maldives’ signature combination of white sands, turquoise waters, and lush greenery. Also synonymous with this archipelago nation? Luxurious accommodations with unbeatable views. And guests at the new property can expect nothing less.

The resort currently has 80 private villas, both on the beach and over the water. Throughout the rebranding process in the coming months, the accommodations will be upgraded to add private pools in the overwater villas and new family suites.

Other property enhancements will include fresh dining concepts, as well as new wellness programming. Meanwhile, those who prefer something more active will find water activities and high-performance equipment that allows for nearby turtle safaris, access to 40 dive sites, and more — all while learning about ocean conservation.

At the forefront of all the changes will be Six Senses’ unique ethos.

“Six Senses Kanuhura is a unique opportunity to combine our three best-loved ideals in life: sustainability, wellness, and locally themed experiences,” said Neil Jacobs, CEO of Six Senses, in a press release shared with Travel + Leisure. “By day, your feet will be sandy and your hair salty. By night, surrender to the spa and your skin will be smoothed, your soul will be soothed, and your mood will be as sparkling as your sundowner.”

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Jordan – The Most Exciting Travel Destinations on a Budget

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For those who are first-time travelers to the Middle East or even for veteran travelers, Jordan is a dream come true. Here, you can see some of the wonders of the world while enjoying the luxury of world-class travel. Jordan’s legendary hospitality is designed to make its tourist feel relaxed and at home while providing the opportunity to indulge in a myriad of different activities that are suited for the entire family. Whether floating in the Dead Sea or shopping at the local markets, you’ll find it all in Jordan.

Noted travel authority Matthew Keezer suggests that you take the time to view Jordan’s different UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can view the ancient frescos in the castle of Quseir Amra that has stood for over 1,300 years. Or you can opt to visit the incredible sites in the ancient city of the Nabataeans Empire in Petra that will provide you with amazing photo opportunities unlike any other in the world.

Matthew Keezer also points out that there are many varied and unique tours that are available in Jordan. For example, adventure seekers can ride on camels, Arabian horses or even ATVs, courtesy of the Zalabia Bedouins, which is a cultural group famous for tourism services in the Wadi Rum Region. This hospital group of nomadic people has turned their location into a visitor-friendly outdoor playground! And for those who love the water, there are numerous opportunities to snorkel, swim and engage in other beach-related activities along the breath taking coastline of the Red Sea.

Things to Do in Jordan

Matthew Keezer suggests that you check out these things to do, while you’re in Jordan:

  • Explore Ancient Petra – It’s suggested that you set aside at least a couple of days in order to visit the highlights of one of the New7Wonders of the World with over 800 registered sites. Rediscovered by Swiss explorer Jean Louis Burckhardt more than 200 years ago, Petra is considered the jewel of Jordan. This particularly well-preserved city offers an experience that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
  • Float in the Dead Sea – This is a must-do adventure for those visiting Jordan. Glowing with an intense shade of turquoise, the Dead Sea is known for its mineral-rich water that is so salient and dense, that all you’ll be able to do is float on its surface! However, the water is rumoured to have remarkable healing qualities for your skin.

Matthew Keezer says that this is the time to make plans for your next vacation destination in order to avoid potential tourism crowds in the near future. Jordan is known for its wide selection of different visitor attractions for those who love to travel. Whether it’s camel-riding in the desert on lounging on a beach along the Red Sea, Jordan is the place to do it all! 

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Hotel Indigo Bandung Dago Pakar to Open 2024 in Indonesia

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IHG Hotels & Resorts and PT Hotel Dago Pakar extend their partnership in Indonesia with a second hotel – Hotel Indigo Bandung Dago Pakar – following the success of InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar.

Scheduled to open in 2024, the 275-room Hotel Indigo Bandung Dago Pakar will be located in the Dago neighbourhood, in the northern region of Bandung.

As with every Hotel Indigo property, it will draw on the story of its local area to inspire all aspects of its design, décor and service style. Every detail, from the warmth of the welcome guests receive to the dishes served in the restaurants, create a highly-memorable cultural experience, inspired by the rich heritage of Dago Pakar and the vibrant spirit, passion and independence of Bandung.

Hotel Indigo Bandung Dago Pakar will weave three key themes into every aspect of the guest journey: the healing and restorative power of water, the craftmanship of local artisans, musicians, puppet masters and dancers that combines modern and traditional art forms, and the folklores and fables that have inspired generations of locals.

Purnawan Suriadi, Director, PT Hotel Dago Pakar, said: “We want to establish Dago Pakar as a must-visit destination, bring out a deeper understanding of our rich culture and heritage that intertwines European influence from its colonial past as well as its young vibrant creative culture, and forge a meaningful connection between our guests, our hotel and the community. The Hotel Indigo design philosophy, which uses storytelling to bring the neighbourhood to life within the hotel while providing a gateway to inspiring and culturally rich locations, aligns with our vision for this property.

“We have a strong partnership with IHG and are very happy with the continued success of InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar despite the pandemic. Since opening in 2015, it has transformed the area into a popular luxury destination for business and leisure travellers.

“We are confident that IHG’s proven track record of success in quality and guest satisfaction, both internationally and in the region, will offer a uniquely local experience for guests at Hotel Indigo Bandung Dago Pakar.”

Serena Lim, Vice President, Development for South East Asia and Korea, IHG, said: “We are very excited to bring boutique brand Hotel Indigo to Bandung and extend our excellent partnership with PT Hotel Dago Pakar. The Hotel Indigo brand is growing in Indonesia with Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach and three more properties in the pipeline in Bintan and Jakarta.

“The brand’s growth momentum shows the appetite of travellers to explore the heart and soul of each location they go to and be inspired by new places, people and ideas. We are also seeing a demand for owners to create a unique hotel experience that celebrates and supports the neighbourhood and makes a positive impact on the community.

“With 24 hotels in Indonesia, Hotel Indigo Bandung Dago Pakar joins IHG’s pipeline in the country that includes 13 hotels with 2,520 rooms across five brands. With its growing middle class and large millennial population, we see Indonesia as a long-term key market for our estate of brands.”

Facilities at Hotel Indigo Bandung Dago Pakar will include a café & bar, meeting and event spaces measuring more than 1,800 sqm, a health and fitness club, two swimming pools, and a kids club. It will also offer the first rooftop pool and bar in Bandung with 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape and city.

Located on a site previously known as “Love Hill”, 700 metres above sea level, Dago Pakar is a rich botanical sanctuary surrounded by tea plantations, pristine forests and natural waterfalls, and offers scenic city views. A 30-minute drive to Bandung International Airport, the hotel is situated near to the Djuanda Forest Park, a vast conservation area and botanical garden with more than 2,500 types of plants and endangered animals.

Its central location makes it easy for visitors to explore the local community, and offers the chance to sample Indo-Dutch cuisine such as pisang molen (banana wrapped in baked flour), to “ngopi” which is the act of socialising with family and friends over local coffee and teh poci (tea in a pot), and immerse in the thriving folk art scene of creatives, artists, musicians, performers and writers.

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Brazilian Startup Airline ITA

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Brazil has a new airline. 

This new company aims to become Brazil’s most prominent player, though it has a long road ahead and has already faced a few setbacks. Let’s investigate further.

Regarding domestic flights, the airlines predict to resume all routes by the end of the first semester of 2022.

Right now, the numbers of daily departures are 75% compared to pre-pandemic numbers. They expect to end 2021 at 85%. There is a push for more regional flights as new airport concessions are being made, and the appearance of a new airline, ITA, has pushed Azul, Gol and Latam to resume routes so they won’t lose market share. 

ITA is currently flying to 19 destinations in Brazil and plans to end 2022 with 35 routes. They do not have an aggressive price strategy, but they want to differentiate themselves by offering 1 free checked bag (around R$50 or U$10 benefit, compared to the others), more leg space, free seat assignment, meals and drinks on-board when they return, integration with their bus fleet. This might be the biggest advantage for international tourists, they will be able to fly to Rio and connect by land to Buzios by bus, directly from the airport, with one ticket.

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New Zealand, Switzerland, Czech Republic and Oman among the latest countries to adopt the WTTC Safe Travels stamp

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LONDON, UK – More than 400 destinations around the world now proudly hold the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) ‘Safe Travels’ stamp, with New Zealand, Switzerland, and Oman among the latest major destinations to adopt the globally recognised stamp.

WTTC, which has been continuously leading the private sector in the efforts to rebuild global consumer confidence and encourage the return of safe international travel, made history when it launched the world’s first ever global safety and hygiene stamp just over one year ago.

The stamp, which has been crucial to restoring confidence in travellers and revive the global Travel & Tourism sector, has now also been adopted by major destination countries such as Trinidad & Tobago, Madagascar, Samoa and Réunion Island.

Julia Simpson, President & CEO, WTTC said: “We are delighted that our Safe Travels stamp continues to go from strength to strength and has been adopted by destinations from every corner of the world. 

“From Portugal to Puerto Rico, Sri Lanka to Slovenia, Thailand to Tunisia, our stamp is now recognised around the globe. This is testimony to the hard work and dedication of all those involved in making our stamp work for both destinations and holidaymakers.

“This sets a standard of health and safety protocols so visitors can travel safe in the knowledge that a destination is following the highest standards.”

According to WTTC’s 2020 Economic Impact Report (EIR), in 2019, Travel & Tourism contributed 10.4% to global GDP and supported 334 million jobs (one in 10 jobs across the world). However, following a year of global lockdowns and closed borders, some 62 million jobs in Travel & Tourism were lost around the world, and the sector’s contribution to global GDP slumped by US$4.5 trillion (-49.1%).

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Experience Cerro Guido in Chile with Felipe Howard

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Experience Cerro Guido with Felipe Howard – Southbound DMC founder and director

“Look Felipe, towards the East, beside a square rock with lichens, below the crack, there is another puma”.

I take my binoculars and start screening the rocks with lichens, it is difficult to find the puma, which is so well camouflaged until I do see it. Part of the excitement of our excursion is feeling the emotion of watching with patience until you detect the puma.

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During 5 days and 4 excellent nights, we went precisely to live the experience on the ground. We stayed at the Estancia Cerro Guido Hotel, the base for all our excursions and part of the wildlife conservation project that started here in 2019. Cerro Guido is an historic renovated mansion, nice and cosy, very comfortable with its authentic decoration from the days of the pioneers.

A Patagonian ranch which still operates as such and where, from the dining room, you have a privileged view of the Paine massif. A delicious breakfast was the start of our days of exploration. Personalized snacks kept us going during the day. We enjoyed the views to the Paine Mountain range from different perspectives, from Sierra del Toro (Bull Hill), from Condor hideouts, or the massive Sierra Baguales, which is another hidden treasure. Always enjoying sceneries with amazing colours that changed from day to day. With sunrises and sunsets with the Paine towers as a backdrop and away from the more bustling tourists tracks in Torres del Paine National Park.

Travel to Cerro Guido is not only to observe pumas; it is a complete wildlife experience as well as a cultural experience, when observing the life and work on the ranch. To be able to get to know the gauchos and listen to their stories, is a joy in itself.

It has been gratifying to take part in this experiment to achieve a healthy and long term coexistence between conserving the authentic wildlife and ranching in Patagonia.

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International Art Exhibition “Forever Is Now”

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“Forever Is Now” is the name of the international art exhibition at the Great Pyramids that will be held from 21 October till 7 November 2021. The exhibition will feature works of the world’s leading contemporary artists, while combining ancient heritage and contemporary art, showcasing how ancient Egypt has been a monumental source of inspiration for artists throughout history.

Forever Is Now is an international art exhibition that both reflects the profound, global influence of ancient Egypt and draws on the ongoing inclusiveness of contemporary cultural practices. Whether practiced by ancient Egyptians or by contemporary artists, the making of art permits one generation to bear witness of the present and speak to the next. It is an unrelenting undertaking that reflects humankind’s enduring talent for creating works that inspire the imagination, works that reveal the wonder of humanity itself, its tenacity and, through the arts, its unity. Forever Is Now will be cross-cultural and will showcase how ancient Egypt has been a monumental source of inspiration for artists throughout history.

 ‘I have always been in awe of this extraordinary ancient civilization that has influenced generations with discoveries in the sciences, arts, math, social justice, cultural development, and innovation,” said Nadine A. Ghaffar, French-Egyptian founder of Art D’Égypte. “It is a civilization that managed to invent and build monuments that we as human beings to this day cannot fathom and have not been able to replicate. Egyptian culture is a gift to humanity, and the purpose of this exhibition is to showcase these treasures in a dialogue with the contemporary on an international scale, to the rest of the world. Ancient Egypt has influenced artists from around the world, and so we bring the world to Egypt and Egypt to the world through art. It’s a privilege to stand at the foot of these monuments that have survived turmoil, wars, and pandemics, and have endured. This exhibition is a token of hope for humanity and a humble tribute to a civilization that stands the test of time.’

Forever Is Now is the first exhibition of its kind in the 4500-year history of the Pyramids of Giza. The exhibition represents a merging of ancient heritage and contemporary art at the oldest and last remaining of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which today survives as a UNESCO world heritage site. The exhibition involves some of the world’s leading experts and institutions, with centuries-worth of experience and knowledge on Egyptology, the archaeological history of the plateau, and the ancient history of the Great Pyramids of Giza & have hosted some of the strongest international and regional art exhibitions.

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