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    Cruzeiro Safaris Offers luxury vacations to the most popular wildlife national parks in Kenya

    Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya Offers Professional Safari Vacations in Kenya to the most popular wildlife national parks and Luxury Accommodations in Nairobi, Masai Mara, Samburu, Amboseli, Tsavo, Lake Nakuru, Nyeri Aberdares, Nanyuki and around Mount Kenya.Cruzeiro Safaris also helps last minute traveler and transit travelers book short day tours and trips in Nairobi.
    Are there any destinations in the world which can evoke such powerful imagery as Kenya, one of East Africa’s premier destinations?Indeed, the acacia-dotted savannahs of Kenya re inhabited by classic African animals, from towering elephants and prancing gazelles to prides of lions and stalking leopards. The country also plays host to the annual migration, the largest single movement of heard animals on the planet. However, what makes Kenya truly stand out as a travel destination is the vast palette of landscapes that comprise this visually stunning country. While the flaunted image of the savannah of Maasai Mara perhaps the single key selling point for Kenya’s tourist industry, intrepid travelers can also explore the barren expanses of the Rift valley, the glacial ridges of Mt. Kenya and the beaches of the Swahili coast.
    This rich diversity of quintessential African environments present opportunity for hiking, trekking, diving sailing and so much more But to simply focus on Kenya’s wildlife and nature is to ignore the people that make this country so dynamic. Kenya is a thriving multicultural country with a wide cross-section of everything that is classic and contemporary Africa. Everyday life brings together traditional tribes and urban families, ancient customs and modern sensibilities. And, while much of the East Africa has suffered from bitter feud between divided ethnic groups, Kenya has usually been regarded as an island of stability in a trouble region. Kenya may be a somewhat more intimidating destination that it once was, but remains one of the undisputed highlights of Africa. Check your inhibition, ignore the hype, bring your sense of adventure and get ready for some truly inspiring and life-changing travel.
    Planning a trip to Kenya is a pleasure in itself: the country is so versatile that it’s virtually a blank canvas, catering equally for the thrill-seekers and sun-seekers, budget backpackers and high-end rollers, those who like it tough and those who just want to get going. Whatever you do here, you’ll discover that it’s very straightforward to sort yourself out of the ground and advance plans are very necessary.
    When to go to Kenya: The main tourist season is January, February and March, when the weather is hottest and driest. At this time, the animals in the wildlife parks tend to congregate more around the watercourses, making them easy to spot. However, the parks can get crowded and rates for accommodation soar –also make sure you avoid Christmas and Easter unless you want to pay much higher prices. From June to October, the annual wildebeest migration takes place, with thousands of animals streaming into the Maasai Mara National reserve from Serengeti. During the long rains (the low season April to May) things are much quieter.ADVERTISEMENTTransit Travelers and Travelers with a stopover in Nairobi are also not left behind, book a half or full day tour in Nairobi and visit many places. This trip comes with Free airport transfers from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or Wilson Airport.
    Itineraries and Classic RoutesClassic routes put you face to face with the continent’s most charismatic creatures. Safari njema – have a good trip!
    Departing from Nairobi, Kenyas capital city one can enjoy the Nairobi city tours at any point where low or high season. Our first port of call is Maasai Mara National Reserve between July and October, the Maasai Mara plays host to the annual wildebeest migration, which offers a definitive slice of safari Africa. Even if you can’t time your visit to coincide with this epic event, the Mara is still worth visiting as the famous national park in Kenya. The northern trails leads to Samburu National Reserve , a dusty, red, desert habitat that shelters’ species of animals not found elsewhere in Kenya. The safari trail continues down to Amboseli National Park, which is regarded as one of the best places in Africa to get up close and personal with the heads of grazing elephants.
    In search of the big fiveThe ultimate goal of any safari-gore is to spot the Big Five, namely lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant. While you’re going to have to put in a lot of hours to spot them all-particularly the elusive leopard – this itinerary will have you ticking them off the list in no time. Start your search at Lake Nakuru National park, an alkaline lake in the Rift Valley, which is home to many thousands of pink flamingos and pelicans. This vitally important national park also protects the country’s largest population of endangered black rhinos, as well as large herds of buffalo. From lake Nakuru, your next stop is the obligatory Maasai Mara National Reserve which is veritable lion country, With a little luck you can spot leopards lounging in trees, and cheetahs prowling around the savannahs, from Maasai Mara head south to Naivasha and visit the Hells gate National park swim in the hot water sulfuric swimming pool belonging to the geothermal energy plant. Then head south to the Amboseli national park for a wildlife drive through Kilimanjaro court. Against a back drop of Africa’s tallest peak, you will see dozens of elephants. From Amboseli it’s straight forward drive to the Tsavo West National Park and Tsavo East National Park. Kenya’s largest wildlife parks. As they are relatively undeveloped. Tsavo East and West are where you can truly have a wildlife experience. From here you can head down to the highway to ancient Swahili port of Mombasa where you can either fly straight home or start a whole new journey exploring the Kenyan coast. Indeed, its’ just a short trip south west to the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary a small but important reserve that protects elephants migratory routes, and on to the densely forested Shimba Hills National reserve home to the rare antelope.
    Sun, Surf and SwahiliWhether you’re interest in exploring the remaining vestiges of Swahili culture, or simply kicking it on the beach for days on end, don’t miss the chance to explore Kenya’s sun-drenched coast. From the coastal getaway of Mombasa City, the first stop head south is Tiwi beach, a tranquil white-sand paradise that is popular with independents travelers. Just down the road, you can head on to the package holiday destination of Diani beach for a taste of the more full-on rest experience. Near the Tanzania Border are the Funzi and Wasini islands provide a dose of real, unspoilt coastal life and also afford easy access to the excellent Kisite Marine National Park. Here you can spot the Dolphins each other it’s a wonderful complement to Kenya’s terrestrial wildlife destinations.
    Back to the coastal trail make a quick stop in the charming town of Kilifi before pressing on to the Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve on the largest remaining tracts of indigenous coastal forest in East Africa. Further north are the Gede ruins and ancient Swahili City that dates back to the 13th century. Another historic town along the Swahili coast is Malindi, a 14th century trading post that is now one of the country’s leading beach destinations for Italian holiday makers. Your itinerary can end its peaks at the wonderful Lamu archipelago a veritable tropical paradise and Swahili heritage gem. One can take up the Summer Package staying in Mombasa and travelling to the Tsavo Park and back.
    Roads Less Travelled: Desert FrontiersThis unbeaten trail winds through the harsh and barren landscapes around Lake Turkana, which dominates the northwest corner of the country. The Eastern getaway to this region is the small town of Isiolo, Just north of Mt Kenya. There are several good national parks and wildlife reserve in this area. One can plough through straight to the desert route and head up the rough road to Marsabit the dusty tribal centre of this remote area which boasts a fine national park. Assuming you are not tempted to hope over the border to Ethiopia at Moyale, a real wild frontier, take the western loop to Turkana via North Horr heading for the tiny lake side settlement of Loiyangalani a base for trips into even more remote parts of the country. From here the trail leads through again passing all kinds of scenic zones and the stopover towns of South Horr and Baragoi. It’s worth stopping for a couple of days in Maralal to replenish supplies and sample the joys of camel-trekking. Your could end your trip here but for the full effect, head up to the other side of Turkana, passing though the lush western area around marich to reach sweltering Lodwar and the lovely lake shore Springs.

    When is the best time to spot animals?When you visit Kenya’s parks and reserves, you’ll be spending a lot of time craning your neck and keeping watchful eyes out for animals and birds. There are a few telltale signs to note, as we as a few things you can do to maximize your chances of spotting the Big Five. Most are just common sense.
    The best time to view wildlife to between 6.30am and 9.30am and from 3.30am to 6.30 pm. Cruzeiro Safaris makes sure they you during these timings. Wildlife drives in the mid of the day are unlikely to turn up much, (although there are popular parks such as Amboseli and Maasai Mara), animals are actually changing their normal hunting habits to avoid the tourist. When the tourists head back to the lodges for lunch, the carnivores go out hunting – in peace. In wooded country, agitated and noisy monkeys or baboons are often a sign that there’s a big cat (probably a leopard) around. Vultures circling are not necessarily an indication of a kill below. But if they are gathering in trees and seem to be watching something, you can reasonably assume they are waiting their turn for a go at a carcass.
    One final note – taking longer safari is great, but endless long days peering out of a sunroof, on bumpy roads, in the heat, eating the same food stuck with the same people can take its toll quicker than you might think. Any animal you see on the first day will be exciting, though sooner or later most travelers will experience safari fatigue, that jaded feeling of ‘not another zebra, I wanna see a freaking leopard’. If this happens a few cultural activities and afternoon’s relaxations or even just a quick swim can do wonders for keeping things fresh. Or just take an air package especially for single travelers.
    Nairobi and around highlights, Transit and Stop over Tours:Spotting wildlife in the most incongruous of surroundings at the Nairobi National Park, Tangling tongues with the rubber-necked ungulate at Giraffe centre, Broadening your appreciation of all things cultural and environmental at the National Museum, Surveying the Landscape from the grand heights of the Kenyatta Conference centre, making the most essential foodie pilgrimage to the Carnivore and dancing it off at the Simba salon. Striking out for some proper exercise, walking through the incredibly scenic Ngong Hills, Visit the 2. And half hour away park to the Lake Nakuru national park.
    Does One have more than 24 hours stopover in Nairobi then book a fast last minute safari tour to the Masai mara for 1 night / 2 days
    Cruzeiro Safaris Also Offers Instant Online Bookings for Half – day tours and full day tours in Nairobi.Nairobi Day Tours, Nairobi National Park, Animal Orphanage, Giraffe Center, Karen Blixen, Safari Cat Show, Musuems, City Tours, Amboseli Day trip, Lake nakuru day Trip, Airport Transfers in Nairobi, Nairobi Airport Transfers from Airport to Hotels, Mombasa City Tours, Kenya Safari Packages by Road , Nairobi National Park Tours with Option
    Nairobi National Park Guided Tour Morning or AfternoonKindly indicate your preferred departure timeMorning Tour : starts at 6am – 11amAfternoon Tour: Starts at 1.30pm – 6.30pm
    The Nairobi National Park Tour is one of the most popular tours in Nairobi. A must visit for everyone and a top attraction in the world near a city. This tour starts early morning at 6am to 11am. Visit the Nairobi National Park and embark on a long game viewing drive around the park. It was established in 1946, 114 kms (44 sq miles) of pristine savanna with a large stock of migratory game and lies between the Nairobi-Mombasa railway and the garden suburb of Langata. It is open on its south-east perimeter and here the Kitengela Conservation Area allows a corridor for the natural migration of the game which takes place with the seasonal rains.
    Please note the morning tour takes 5 hours and the afternoon takes 4 hours from pick up to drop off.
    Cost Includes:
    Game viewing drive in Safari 4×4 wheel Drives for the Ultimate Safari ExperienceTransport pick up and drop off from hotel / AirportSafari Driver guide entry feesPlease note PARK ENTRY FEES for travellers are NOT INCLUDED in this OPTIONNOT INCLUDED
    Park Entry Fees of USD40 Adult and USD20 Child (Low Season MARCH to JUNE) and USD60 Adult and USD20 Adult (High Season JULY to FEBRUARY)Park entry fees are paid by Credit Card or Mobile money at the Park Gate in the morning ( NO cash is accepted)Food and Drinks – However, Carry your own Drinking water with a NON-PLASTIC Vessel. The Kenyan Government has banned single use of plastic bottles.OTHER NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK TOURS WITH OPTIONSPrices for Below Tours In Nairobi are for Non- Kenyan CitizensNairobi National park Tour Including Park fees (Non-Kenyans) – (6am to 11am) – Transport in Safari minivanNairobi National Park Tour Morning (6am – 11am) Transport in 4×4 Wheel DrivesNairobi National Park, Elephant Orphanage and Lunch at Carnivore or Tamarind – (6am – 2pm)Elephants Orphanage, Giraffe Center , Lunch at carnivore and Nairobi National Park ( 10am – 6.30pm) – Transport in 4×4 wheel DrivesNairobi National Park Tour Afternoon (1.30pm – 6pm) Transport in Safari MinivanNairobi National Park Tour and Giraffe center (6am – 1pm) POPULAR (in 4×4 Wheel Drives)Nairobi National Park, Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Center and Lunch at Carnivore (6am – 3pm) – Transport in 4×4 wheel drivesNairobi National Park, Giraffe center, Lunch, Karen Blixen Musuem (6am to 5pm)Lake Nakuru National Park Day Trip – Transport in Safari MinivansLake Nakuru National Park Tour Day Trip – Transport in 4x4wheel drivesLake Naivasha Tour with Crescent island – Day Trip
    IMPORTANT INFORMATION SINGLE / SOLO TRAVELERPlease check on our main website https://www.cruzeiro-safaris.com if we have a departure that you can join, then book and pay we shall honor your booking. However, if there is no tour to join on your date PLEASE do NOT book and pay. Please note there will be NO Refund.
    Cost Includes:
    Game viewing drive,Transport pick up and drop off from hotel / AirportLunch where applicable/ mentioned in the tour packageEntry to Giraffe centre with applicable packageSafari Driver guidePlease note PARK ENTRY FEES are INCLUDED in ALL options for NON-KENYAN CITIZEN.Not IncludedHowever, Carry your own Drinking water with a NON-PLASTIC Vessel. The Kenyan Government has banned single use of plastic bottles and Papers.

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    Boeing Expands Partnership with Invictus Games to Support Wounded Veterans

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    Boeing Expands Partnership with Invictus Games to Support Wounded Veterans

    Boeing is expanding its support of the Invictus Games and the wounded servicemen and women from around the world who compete and inspire. For the first time, the company will serve as the Presenting Partner of Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023.
    “The Invictus Games makes a decisive contribution to the rehabilitation of wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans,” said Brigadier General Alfred Marstaller, project director of the Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023. “We are delighted to be working with Boeing this year to provide lasting support to the competitors on their rehabilitation journey.”
    The announcement was made yesterday in Berlin during a parliamentary reception at the Representation of the Federal State of North-Rhine Westphalia. The expanded partnership builds on a multi-year agreement with the Invictus Games Foundation and the company’s sponsorship of Invictus Games Sydney 2018 and Invictus Games The Hague 2020.
    “Boeing has an enduring commitment to those who wear the uniform, veterans and the families who love and support them; their immense sacrifice is exceeded by their devotion to country. The courage and determination of these Invictus competitors inspire us all,” said Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun. “On behalf of some 20,000 veterans who proudly work at Boeing, we are honored to be the Presenting Partner for this year’s Invictus Games in Germany, where we will celebrate the remarkable achievements and indomitable spirit of all its competitors.”
    Featuring more than 500 competitors from 22 nations participating in 10 sports, the Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 presented by Boeing will also bring together family and friends of the competitors to acknowledge their role in recovery, post-injury or illness. The Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 will take place September 9–16, 2023 in and around the Merkur-Spiel Arena.ADVERTISEMENT“We are very grateful for Boeing’s long-term support for the Invictus movement. Today’s announcement builds on Boeing’s past sponsorship of the Invictus Games Sydney 2018 and the Invictus Games The Hague 2020, each time with greater and deeper support,” said Invictus Games Foundation CEO Dominic Reid OBE. “Our work supporting international wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women through sport is only made possible by partners like Boeing, which has committed to long-term support for veterans and their wider community, both at the Invictus Games and beyond.”
    The Boeing and Invictus Games Foundation partnership continues to inspire the recovery of international wounded, injured and sick veterans and service personnel through the power of sports, esports and adventurous challenges. In 2022, Boeing contributed more than $13 million to support veterans workforce transition and recovery and rehabilitation programs globally. Over the past decade, Boeing has contributed more than $70 million to programs that support veterans and their families and has long-standing partnerships with veteran service organizations from Invictus Games partner countries.

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    TREETOP TRAIL TO TAKE MINNESOTA ZOO TO NEW HEIGHTS

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    TREETOP TRAIL TO TAKE MINNESOTA ZOO TO NEW HEIGHTS

    In just 100 days, guests at the Minnesota Zoo will be able to reach new heights when the Treetop Trail, the world’s longest elevated pedestrian loop, officially opens.Beginning Friday, July 28, 2023, the 1.25-mile Treetop Trail will bring guests up to 32 feet above the ground and provide them with an immersive and accessible naturistic journey.This opening date of the Zoo’s new pathway to nature appropriately coincides with World Nature Conservation Day. As a worldwide leader in wildlife conservation, the Minnesota Zoo created the Treetop Trail to give guests year-round access to hundreds of acres of hardwood forest, ponds and marshes, and the diverse wildlife that call Minnesota home. The Treetop Trail will provide new perspectives of many Zoo animals, including tigers, moose, bison, and of course, a bird’s eye view for bird watchers during each of Minnesota’s four seasons.
    The Minnesota Zoo opened 45 years ago in 1978 with a mission to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife. The Treetop Trail will reinforce the Zoo’s reputation as a trusted nature destination and is an evolution of the role that zoos play around the globe.
    “The Treetop Trail marks a new chapter for the Minnesota Zoo,” said Minnesota Zoo Director and Foundation President John Frawley. “As we look ahead to the Zoo’s next 45 years, the Treetop Trail is a major step in furthering connections to nature and animals in an accessible and immersive way.”
    Integrating into the Zoo’s original monorail track which was retired in 2013, the Treetop Trail is the ultimate reuse construction project. The Zoo contracted with award-winning Snow Kreilich Architects; engineering firm Buro Happold (known for its work on the High Line in New York City); and construction partner, PCL. Together, they have been committed to minimizing disruptions to the Zoo’s animals and guests before, during, and after construction.
    The entrance to the Treetop Trail will feature the Zoo’s new animal ambassador habitat. Here, guests will be greeted by several species native to Minnesota including the Treetop Trail ambassador – a North American porcupine named Quillber.ADVERTISEMENTPlanning for the Minnesota Zoo Treetop Trail began in June 2018 and a ceremonial groundbreaking was held in April 2022. “Thanks to the full support from our Boards, legislative and government champions, as well as the philanthropic community, we have secured $39 million in public and private partnership to support this transformational project,” said Frawley.
    The Minnesota Zoo would like to express profound gratitude to the following for their support of the Treetop Trail: State of Minnesota, K.A.H.R. Foundation, Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, Target, Best Buy Foundation, Hubbard Broadcasting Foundation, and hundreds of individual donors.
    To learn more about the Minnesota Zoo’s Treetop Trail, please visit mnzoo.org/treetoptrail.

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    GRANDE LAKES ORLANDO CELEBRATES THE SUMMER IN STYLE WITH THE ARRIVAL OF “GLO SUMMER NIGHTS”

    Grande Lakes Orlando, the 500-acre luxury resort destination in the headwaters of the Florida Everglades anchored by The Ritz-Carlton Orlando and JW Marriott Orlando, invites guests to celebrate the summer in style with the introduction of “GLO Summer Nights,” an exhilarating seasonal celebration in honor of the resort’s 20th anniversary. Boasting signature weekly fireworks displays in addition to spectacular glow-charged nights at the recently debuted Grande Lakes Waterpark, alongside an abundance of activations fit for every traveler, Grande Lakes Orlando has crafted a truly unforgettable summer experience all season long.GLO Summer SaturdaysThroughout the summer, Grande Lakes Orlando will play host to an array of experiences perfect for families and guests of all ages including dazzling fireworks displays that will take center stage every Saturday evening. After a day spent exploring the Everglades or enjoying the Grande Lakes Waterpark, resort guests can look up from their balconies, lounge chairs, or poolside cabanas for an intimate yet larger-than-life fireworks show. Boasting a masterful explosion of color and light in the sky each week from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with additional special shows occurring over holiday weekends, these grand fireworks displays are complimentary for overnight guests of both hotels. Upgrade options are available that include food and beverage service at both hotels and a private in-room viewing package at The Ritz-Carlton, designed with families in mind.
    After the sun goes down on GLO Summer Saturday nights between 7-10pm, guests can find their way to the illuminated Grande Lakes Waterpark and pool for an evening of illuminated fun. Float through the winding lazy river in glow-in-the-dark tubes, meander in the glittering pool lit with neon lights, and enjoy live DJ performances.
    Younger guests will find no shortage of fun-filled activities from the array of classic kid-friendly summer activations, including waterproof face painting, caricatures, outdoor games and balloon animals. Meanwhile, adults can indulge in activities including lakeside mixology courses, a decadent dessert and champagne trolley and Fire & Ice, a live ice carving by the resort’s U.S. Olympic Champion Carver, Victor Dagatan and a mesmerizing fire dancing performance, along with numerous opportunities to enjoy live music.
    Aquatic Adventures at Grande Lakes WaterparkFresh off the heels of multimillion-dollar renovations across the resort, guests and families can take advantage of the elevated Grande Lakes Waterpark. The ideal landing place for those of all adventure-seeking levels, the new Waterpark was inspired by the resort’s lush natural surroundings and prime location in the Everglades. The “grande” new waterpark experience features a signature Lazy River, Headwaters Slide Tower with three waterslides, Aquaventure obstacle course, a celebrated restaurant, and VIP firepit lounge, Oasis. While enjoying the waterpark’s newest attractions, guests can indulge in a new poolside dining experience, Knife Burger, from acclaimed Chef John Tesar of the MICHELIN-Starred Knife & Spoon, or visit the newly enhanced lobby bar, EvrBar, for specialty cocktails and panoramic views of the Waterpark and the resort’s namesake lakes.
    Grande Lakes Waterpark’s 12 private cabanas offer varying levels of luxury, from options with simple loungers to high-end cabanas with furnishings, entertainment consoles, and private plunge pools. In addition to the enhanced waterpark experience at JW Marriott Orlando, guests of Grande Lakes Orlando can explore the recently enhanced aquatic options at the adajcent Ritz-Carlton Orlando. Debuting with its recent renovation, the property now showcases a new Solaire heated pool lined with luxury poolside cabanas. These 12 exclusive cabanas feature a private butler, wireless internet, HDTV, a refrigerator, and other amenities. For a quiet respite, grown-ups can escape to an adults-only lap pool and hot tub at the award-winning Ritz-Carlton Spa.ADVERTISEMENTReserve Your GLO Experience NowFor travelers looking to get ahead of summer savings, Grande Lakes Orlando will offer an exclusive, one-time advanced booking discount of 20% to guests who reserve their stay between April 17-30, 2023, applicable for stays from April 21 through September 30. They can use the online promotional code D3Q to lock in their savings.
    For more information on Grande Lakes Orlando and its 20th anniversary celebration this summer, and to reserve a stay, visit www.grandelakes.com/.

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    A World-First for the World’s Number One Cookie*: OREO Café opens in Qatar

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    A World-First for the World’s Number One Cookie*: OREO Café opens in Qatar

    The world’s number one cookie has landed at Doha’s Hamad International Airport (HIA), with the opening of the first permanent OREO Café outside of the USA and first in an airport.The 116sqm café in the new North Node is delighting travelers with a delicious selection of sweet inventions including OREO milkshakes, muffins and cheesecakes and a comprehensive savory food and beverage menu, while chefs create unique treats live at the café‘s OREO Creations Bar.
    The bespoke café concept features the OREO brand’s electric signature blue, white and black, attracting transiting passengers with giant OREO furniture, digital walls and a retail area.
    Creating even more excitement, Mondelez and Qatar Duty Free (QDF) ran an integrated marketing campaign, including a Qatar Airways in-flight video during October and high visibility throughout the airport. Mondelez also delivered a high-performing social media campaign featuring playful creative assets and rich culinary imagery.
    To celebrate OREO Day, the partners ran an airport takeover at HIA on March 6th with an end-to-end screen digital campaign across over 800 screens.
    Jaya Singh, Managing Director, Mondelez WTR, and Thabet Musleh, Vice President, Qatar Duty Free, commented: “This is a historic moment for Mondelez and QDF. This exceptional partnership has brought a world-first to the world’s leading airport, and we have truly delivered on our mission to bring exclusive experiences to travel retail. With Mondelez WTR’s first foray into F&B leveraging a powerful global brand, we are confident that OREO Café Doha will cement itself as a flagship outlet.”ADVERTISEMENT

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    Hard Rock International Champions ‘Save the Planet’ Pledge by “Going Dark” for Earth Hour

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    Hard Rock International Champions ‘Save the Planet’ Pledge by “Going Dark” for Earth Hour

    Hard Rock International, as a part of a commitment towards a cleaner, eco-friendly world, is once again reflecting on its partnership with global leader in environmental conservation World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and participation in the annual Earth Hour movement.On Saturday, March 25, more than 135 Hard Rock Hotels, Cafes and Casinos around the globe participated by “going dark” for one hour starting at 8:30 pm local property time. This year has proven to be Hard Rock’s most successful Earth Hour activation to-date, with more participating Hotels, Cafes and Casinos, and kilowatts conserved than ever before in the history of the partnership with World Wildlife Fund.
    “Hard Rock’s ongoing partnership with World Wildlife Fund timed to Earth Hour each year is celebrated by properties and team members all over the world as a true testament to living out the ‘Save the Planet’ motto that bonds us all,” said Paul Pellizzari, Vice President of Global Social Responsibility for Hard Rock International. “This year, we extend a heartfelt thank you to our Hotels, Cafes and Casinos worldwide who made this the most impactful Earth Hour yet just by shutting off the lights and hosting unique activations for guests to enjoy.”
    In celebration of Earth Hour this year, the 135+ participating properties’ restaurants, bars, Rock Shops®, hotel rooms, casino lobbies, and outdoor spaces enjoyed candle-lit dinners, acoustic musical performances, sustainable menu options, sustainable movie series, and upcycling competition events, including:
    135+ Hard Rock properties around the world unplugged their iconic guitar and other lights for one hour among creative, planet-friendly activations. Hard Rock Cafe Shenzhen offered guests the chance to test drive electric vehicles. Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya held an upcycling competition to recreate iconic Hard Rock memorabilia, and having guests vote on which should be highlighted in the hotel’s lobby.10 Hotels, including Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Hard Rock Amsterdam, and Hard Rock Hotel Davos, hosted live acoustic music performances alongside candle lit performances.14 properties developed special menus highlighting local ingredients and menu pairings for candle-lit dinners. Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, for instance, created a curated plant-based menu for the occasion.9 Hotels and Casinos crafted cocktails celebrating “Going Dark,” with homegrown herbs and spirits from around the world. Hard Rock Hotel Bali and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana offered one of a kind, “Save the Planet” themed cocktails to their guests.
    To learn more about Hard Rock’s mottos and commitment to “Save the Planet” including its partnerships with World Wildlife Fund and other sustainable partners like Clean The World, please visit www.hardrock.com/living-our-mottos.aspx. Additional information on Hard Rock International can be found by visiting www.hardrock.com.ADVERTISEMENT

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    THE BITE IS BACK!

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    WHISTLER BLACKCOMB NAMES BELINDA TREMBATH AS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

    Whistler Blackcomb, the largest ski resort in North America located in the Canadian province of British Columbia, has announced the appointment of Belinda Trembath as its new Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, effective May 15. 
    Trembath has more than 30 years of experience in the ski industry and mountain operations, and has been Chair of the Australian Ski Areas Association since 2018. Born and raised in Australia, she began skiing at age six, and started her career as a ski instructor. In 2006, Trembath was appointed Vice President & General Manager of Mt. Hotham in the Australian state of Victoria. Starting in 2019, she also provided oversight for Falls Creek, which has the largest skiable area in Victoria. In 2022, she was named Vice President & General Manager of Perisher, the role she currently holds. Perisher is the largest alpine resort in the southern hemisphere, located in the Australian state of New South Wales. Trembath played a key leadership role in helping Perisher, Falls Creek, and Mt. Hotham successfully navigate through the pandemic and borders reopening. She has also been a proactive member of a range of tourism and government advisory boards throughout her career.
    “Belinda is dedicated to ensuring the preservation of unique mountain cultures alongside a commitment to excellence across the employee, guest, and community experience,” said Doug Pierini, Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of Vail Resorts’ West Region and Interim COO at Whistler Blackcomb. “This is what makes her an exceptional mountain operator. I can’t imagine a better leader to step into the COO role at Whistler Blackcomb to help guide the next chapter of such an iconic, influential, world-class resort.” 
    Whistler Blackcomb was recently named the “best ski resort in North America” by Condé Nast Traveler’s annual readers choice awards. Located in Whistler, off the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway, the resort is honoured to operate on the shared unceded territory of the Lil’wat Nation and the Squamish Nation. Whistler and Blackcomb are two, side-by-side connected mountains, offering over 200 marked runs, 3,307 hectares (8,171 acres) of legendary terrain, and 1,609 metres (5,280 feet) of vertical. It is home to one of the longest ski and ride seasons in North America, and in the summer, the resort offers a variety of activities, including the globally recognized Whistler Mountain Bike Park, as well as sightseeing on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. 
    “I am honoured and thrilled to be the COO of Whistler Blackcomb,” said Trembath. “It is not lost on me how profound this opportunity is, and I look forward to being an advocate for our resort and its passionate employees, our guests, and the iconic Whistler community. Canada has always held a special place in my heart – early on in my career, I spent a season in BC at Big White. A spark ignited within me, and I always hoped to find my way back. It is a bit surreal that this dream is now a reality. My husband and children also feel a connection to the beauty of BC, and they are looking forward to this new adventure.” ADVERTISEMENTTrembath’s strength of leadership has also been evident through the implementation of strategic growth programs that she has developed and executed. She also led the three Australian resorts through multiple technology advancements, allowing them to lead through innovation and outside-the-box thinking to enhance the employee and guest experience.
    Trembath will lead the resort, which includes Mountain and Base Area Operations, Food & Beverage, Snow and Bike School, and other important areas of the business.

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    Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi Launches $100 Million Culinary Investment Fund

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    Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi Launches $100 Million Culinary Investment Fund

    The newly launched, Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund (ADCIF), is an incentive for world-class culinary brands to enter the emirate and will further elevate the culinary scene by co-investing with local asset partners and incentivising top chefs, top restaurants, and culinary educational institutions, to enter the market and make Abu Dhabi their new home.
    H.E. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi said: “The Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund is part of our ongoing commitment to elevate the culinary scene across the emirate and create new dining experiences. There is no better time or place to bring best-in-class chefs, restaurants, and hotel brands to the capital. This fund, in combination with the Culinary School will ensure that Abu Dhabi appeals to even more visitors around the world, who can experience increasingly diverse and high-quality dining in the emirate, centred on our tradition of Emirati hospitality.”
    The main requisites for successful fund applicants are brands or chefs recognised by leading awards committees and global culinary guides, with a multi-regional presence – operating in more than one country. Applicants should offer a premium casual, lifestyle, or fine dining experience, without yet having an existing presence in the region and would be making their debut in Abu Dhabi – with a one-year period of exclusivity to the emirate.
    Abu Dhabi’s dining scene has recently been making headlines around the world, welcoming the MICHELIN team to launch the first-ever MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi. The guide details 42 restaurants across Abu Dhabi, awarded three establishments with one MICHELIN Star for their high-quality cooking and four with a Bib Gourmand, acknowledging culinary excellence and value. In addition, Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 – the regional food awards ranking – returned Abu Dhabi in 2023 after a hugely successful 2022 event.
    DCT Abu Dhabi is set to announce the first two recipients of the new Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund in the coming months. For more information, including how to apply for the fund, please visit: https://tcaabudhabi.ae/en/doing.business.with.us/abu.dhabi.culinary.investment.fund.aspxADVERTISEMENT

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