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    What’s New This Summer, in the Austrian Tirol?

    As the snow melts, the flowers bloom, and the cows return to their lush-green pastures, the Austrian Tirol gets ready for a vibrant summer season.
    This year, the renowned Aqua Dome in the Tirolean Ötztal celebrates its 20th anniversary with a major refurbishment, a stylish Summit Spa now graces Das Central Hotel in Sölden, new hiking, running and biking trails criss-cross the mountains, and those with a love of heights can make the most of several innovative via ferrata routes.NEW ACCOMMODATION
    Retro Henri Hotel in KitzbühelDivided into seven categories, 84 rooms, from Petite Cabinets to XL Studios, are accommodated in the new Henri Hotel next to Kitzbühel railway station. Guests can look forward to a welcoming, retro style with warm hospitality and modern comforts. The hotel kitchen serves a hearty breakfast, a Tirolean ‘Marend’, or snacks, during the day, and a late-night drink in the evening. Guests can also relax in the small Henri Spa & Gym complete with sauna, steam bath, indoor pool and gym after a day exploring the alps. www.henri-hotels.com/en
    Stay surrounded by nature, at Kurblhof Leutasch in SeefeldThe recently renovated Kurblhof in Leutasch offers plenty of space in which to relax. Young hotelier, Theresa Klimitsch, already runs the multi-award-winning Bio-Landpension Monika opposite; she has recently expanded her range of services with the addition of an organic-wooden house. Seven comfortable apartments, with stunning clay and silver-fir walls, are housed in the Kurblhof, powered and heated by geothermal energy and solar power. All units have a kitchen and sofa bed, while the top floor features saunas and a relaxation room with views of the Kurblhang. A farm shop with organic specialities from the region, massage room, yoga and exercise room and a large natural garden complete the facilities on offer. www.kurblhof.com
    Wellness area at Family Resort Buchau in AchenseeNestled between the peaks of the Rofan and Karwendel mountains and glittering Lake Achensee, Familienresort Buchau will open a new wellness area with infinity pool and sun deck in May 2024. The children’s water world and private beach (directly on the shore of Lake Achensee) are also being expanded. Guests will be able to look forward to relaxing in spherical loungers and comfy recliners by the lake. New suites, including the exclusive penthouse suite, will also ensure future magical holiday moments. www.buchau.com/enADVERTISEMENTLakeside retreat in KaiserwinklLake Walchsee in Kaiserwinkl is set to welcome a superb new hotel on its shores. Walchsee Aktivresort is adding a Lakeside Annexe, home to 22 luxurious suites with exclusive facilities and direct access to the reflective waters. The hotel’s own restaurant offers an impressive breakfast buffet in the morning and fine dining in the evening, all accompanied by views of the lake. When there, sign up to the “Move & Relax” programme, which offers a varied exercise itinerary in nature and in the resort. www.daswalchsee.at/en
    Relaxed stay at Der LERMOOSER in Tiroler Zugspitz ArenaUnder the roof of a listed railway station, in Lermoos, Der LERMOOSER offers eight rooms with 26 beds, a modern communal kitchen, a welcoming waiting room, and a kiosk that is also open to non-residents. Der LERMOOSER is somewhere between a hotel and a bed and breakfast, wrapped in a homely and comfortable style that accommodates singles and families alike. All this can be found at the foot of Mount Zugspitze, a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers and nature lovers. www.lermooser.com
    BIGSEVEN holiday apartments in PillerseetalThe new BIGSEVEN holiday apartments are centrally located at the foot of the Buchensteinwand, with the imposing Jakobskreuz in Tirol’s Pillerseetal as a backdrop. All apartments come with spacious private balconies and a warming sauna with views of the surrounding mountains. The two “Panorama” and “Panorama Luxe” holiday apartments offer plenty of space and creature comforts, and have everything guests need to feel at home. Plus, services such as fresh bread deliveries, mountain railway tickets, and guided activities and equipment hire can be booked directly on site. www.fieberbrunn-ferienwohnungen.at
    Peaceful retreat at Haus Aerli in EhrwaldSimple and unpretentious on the outside, airy and clear on the inside – welcome to the new Aerli, a small residential and apartment building in Ehrwald, in the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena. Large panoramic windows, local materials, a façade made of natural wood and three pitched roofs create the modern interpretation of a Tirolean hay barn. Guests can rent three holiday apartments for two to four people, or the whole house, and enjoy a retreat with sauna, swimming pond and small library. www.aerli.at/en
    Adult-only stay in Wipptal ValleyAn old farmhouse in Navis, in the Wipptal Valley, has been completely renovated and will soon be welcoming guests (adults only) in three holiday apartments known as ‘Stadl’. Situated at 1,500 metres above sea level, the Feiserhof is the ideal destination for mountain sports enthusiasts. The holiday apartments are furnished in modern style, fully equipped and all have a balcony or terrace. www.urlaubambauernhof.at/de/hoefe/feiserhof
    Sustainable concept at Zellrooms in ZillertalThe new Zellrooms in the centre of Zell am Ziller in the Zillertal valley now plants a tree for every night spent in an apartment. The host’s fundamental concept is simple: everyone can make a small contribution to a sustainable approach to nature. As a result, the four newly built holiday apartments for two to four people are not only stylishly furnished and fully equipped, but also created in accordance with a sustainable philosophy. www.zellrooms.at
    NEW ROUTES
    Hiking
    Panorama-Schützensteig trail at Glungezer in Hall-Wattens RegionThe new circular Panorama-Schützensteig trail in the Hall-Wattens region leads from the Tulfein cable car mountain station via the Hirschvogelsteig to Bärenbaderjöchl and back to the original starting point. The route is approximately four-and-a-half kilometres with an elevation difference of around 250 metres (and takes nearly two hours) on Mount Glungezer. While hiking, enjoy fantastic views of the Inntal Valley and the opposing Karwendel mountains. Thanks to its easy accessibility, the trail is suitable for all ability levels. https://inn-aktiv.at/en/2023/news/panorama-schuetzensteig-in-tulfes/
    The sunny Sunnenseite’n trail in StubaitalGuests can now hike on the sunny slopes of the Stubaital Valley on the new Sunnenseite’n trail from Fulpmes to Neustift. A suspension bridge longer than hundred metres forms the trail’s highlight, offering views of Neustift and the head of the valley with the Stubai Glacier. The trail is 7.5 kilometres long and leads from the middle station of the Schlick2000 Hiking Centre in Fulpmes along a new forest path to Kartnall Guesthouse in Neustift. Thanks to its sunny location at medium altitude, the Sunnenseite’n Weg is accessible almost all year round. www.stubai.at/en
    Mountain Biking
    Kaunertal signposts and authorises mountain bike routes for the first timeFrom summer 2024, Kaunertal Valley in the Tirolean uplands has officially signposted and authorised mountain bike routes for the very first time. The predominantly leisurely tours lead along forest trails to scenic locations and include great places to stop for refreshments at mountain huts. Choose from routes to the Aifner Alm, Mount Langetsberg or the Kaltenbrunn Pilgrimage Circuit. www.kaunertal.com/en/Your-kaunertal/In-Summer/Rad-Bike
    An ambitious ride on the Marchkopf Tour in ZillertalA new connection leading to the Rastkogelhütte offers a varied route via Sidanjoch and the Zillertaler Höhenstraße Alpine Road. The Marchkopf Tour is 43.6 kilometres long and, with 1,980 metres of ascent and a duration of more than five hours, it is relatively challenging. Ambitious bikers can even extend the tour to a mega ride encompassing five mountain passes, 76 kilometres in length, and 3,720 metres in altitude. www.best-of-zillertal.at/en
    Thrilling “Silva Trails” in Galtür, Paznaun-IschglFrom summer 2024, the new “Silva Trails” Bike Trail Park in Galtür will offer a range of paths from easy flows to technically challenging single tracks, as well as special routes for children and families. Home to a circuit, a practice area, two jump lines, pump track and four trails, the park is perfect for beginners and experienced bikers alike. Thrills are guaranteed thanks to a gradient of 2-10% on the trail that descends from 1,970 metres to 1,630 metres above sea level. https://www.ischgl.com/en/Active/Active-Summer/Biking-Ischgl/Bike-tours
    Two fun trails in Tiroler Zugspitz ArenaA new flow trail on the Grubigstein in Lermoos provides biking excitement for every skill level. Take the Grubigstein cable car or ride up the mountain via the forest road, where guests will find the 2.8-kilometre new Bachl Trail at the middle station. Enjoy numerous bends, rollers and jumps – all of which provide adrenalin-inducing fun, while various lines offer great entertainment for beginners and advanced riders. In addition, the Schlägle Trail has undergone a major reshape; it offers an improved descent while retaining its natural character. www.zugspitzarena.com/en/Summer-in-the-Mountains/Biking
    Climbing
    First adaptable via ferrata in NaudersThe new Goldgrat via ferrata in Nauders, on the Reschen Pass, not only offers expansive, sweeping views, but its design allows it to be adapted to different levels of ability. Featuring five stations, it teaches climbers the most important basics of via ferrata climbing, making the route from Goldgrat to the 2,912-metre high Bergkastelspitze, the first educational via ferrata trail in the Alps with guests being able to improve as they climb. https://www.nauders.com/en/Your-Nauders/In-Summer/Climbing/Klettersteig-Goldgrat
    A family-friendly climbing area in St. Jodok in WipptalThe new climbing area at Stafflacher Wand in St. Jodok in the Wipptal Valley is ideal for families and easily accessible by public transport, thanks to its proximity to St. Jodok railway station. The six sections of routes, with difficulty levels ranging from three to nine, means both climbing novices and pros will be in their element. www.wipptal.at/klettern
    Bigger climbing area at Verpeil Gorge in KaunertalImpressive rock formations and numerous boulders make climbing in the Kaunertal Valley in the Tirolean uplands particularly attractive, which is why the programme has now been extensively expanded. The family friendly “Verpeilschlucht” climbing area, with 15 new routes, has been created at the entrance to the Verpeilschlucht Gorge in the main town of Feichten. A 140-metre-long climbing route is also being built on the rock face in Feichten, which is more than 100 metres high. The new attraction is rounded off by the spectacular “Schwarzwand” viewing platform. www.nauders.com/en/Your-Nauders/In-Summer/Climbing/Klettersteig-Goldgrat
    Trail Running
    Five fresh trail running routes in Erste Ferienregion in ZillertalDiscover five new trail running routes in the Erste Ferienregion in the Zillertal Valley, inviting keen runners to explore as they run on fantastic Alpine trails up to Kellerjoch, through the mountain landscapes of Hochfügen, or over a long mountain ridge to three peaks in the upper Zillertal Valley. Several of the routes can be combined; easier or harder trail running laps can be completed depending on mood and fitness level. www.best-of-zillertal.at/sommer/sommeraktivitaeten/trailrunning-spieljoch-hochfuegen/
    An original Cross-Trail powered by LEKI in Paznaun-Ischgl“Cross Trail” is the name of the most original form of trail running, and the Paznaun-Ischgl region will be offering the perfect route from summer 2024. Nine new, signposted tracks lead through technically challenging and often rocky terrain. The starting points for the tours, which combine brisk hiking with running in the high mountains, are the cable car stations or bus stops in Paznaun. Plus, LEKI poles are available for hire in the sports shops in the valley. www.paznaun-ischgl.com/en/Active/Cross-trail
    For more information about summer holidays in Tirol, please visit: www.tyrol.com/things-to-do/summer-holidays

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    Cloudbeds unveils inaugural State of Hostels report

    Cloudbeds, the hospitality management platform powering more reservations and happier guests for independent lodging businesses around the globe, has released its inaugural State of Hostels report.
    The first-of-its-kind report draws on extensive data, research, as well as daily interactions with hostels around the world to share insights and trends in travel for 2024.
    Stephan Leuenberger, Head of Market Development, Hostels, at Cloudbeds, said: “Over the last few years, we’ve seen hostelers navigate the pandemic and push toward full recovery amid rising costs and inflation. Despite higher prices, consumers have demonstrated a determination to travel and a desire for distinctive experiences only hostels can provide.
    “As our findings reveal, 2024 will be the year of chasing demand for hostels. This means monitoring market trends and travel patterns closely to determine who is traveling and how best to capture the business.
    “Having powered hostels for over a decade, we’re honored to serve this segment of the lodging industry and reveal what it will take for hostels to grow their market share and boost profitability in 2024.”ADVERTISEMENTKey findings from the report include:
    Hostels are outpacing other types of accommodations in terms of occupancy rates, as economic uncertainty and inflation drive travelers to more budget-friendly options.Average daily rates (ADR) for private rooms have grown across all regions, while LATAM saw a decrease in dorm ADR as private rooms became more affordable for North American and European travelers.Globally, revenue per available bed (RevPAB) has outperformed revenue per available room (RevPAR) in terms of growth, indicating the value of shared spaces and their rising popularity among travelers.
    Leveraging a wealth of aggregated and anonymized data from across the globe, Cloudbeds has also identified six emerging trends poised to reshape the travel landscape for hostelers and the wider lodging industry in 2024.
    These include a resurgence in lagging market segments, an uptick in inflation-busting travel hacks, and new spins on experiential travel. In addition, Cloudbeds anticipates continued growth in the short-term rental sector (despite rumors to the contrary), new efficiencies driven by generative AI, and growing demand for new skills among next-generation hostelers.
    Cloudbeds’ insights are underpinned by data from 3,000 properties across 95+ countries, in four regions: North America, Latin America (including Mexico), Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The company has tracked key performance metrics over a five-year period, from 2019 through 2023.
    To download a free copy of Cloudbeds’ 2024 State of Hostels report, visit https://www.cloudbeds.com/hostel-report.

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    MANDARIN ORIENTAL EXCLUSIVE HOMES EXPANDS PORTFOLIO IN FRANCE

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    MANDARIN ORIENTAL EXCLUSIVE HOMES EXPANDS PORTFOLIO IN FRANCE

    Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes has welcomed the breathtaking Château de la Croix des Gardes into the growing portfolio for 2024. The extraordinary 16-bedroom estate is the latest property to join the collection, bringing the number of homes in the Côte d’Azur to a total of six, solidifying the region’s reputation as a renowned destination for luxury homes.
    Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes is a branded collection of the world’s finest private vacation homes, chalets and mansions. Operated in collaboration with luxury home rental platform StayOne, each home is hand-picked for its outstanding quality and sought-after location, while also providing personalised service and experiences in keeping with the legendary hospitality of the award-winning brand.
    With a rich history dating back centuries, Château de la Croix des Gardes stands as a testament to French Riviera glamour. Set amidst 25 acres of manicured Italian-style gardens, the estate offers unrivalled seclusion and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, situated just minutes away from the famous Croisette in Cannes. While the exterior of the estate invites leisurely exploration with its exquisite infinity pool, various terraces and beautiful gardens, the interiors are equally as meticulously curated. Stepping into the Château guests are welcomed by a harmonious blend of classic sophistication and modern comforts. Each room is tastefully designed, featuring 16 impressionist-inspired en-suite bedrooms spread across the main house, cottages and pool penthouse. Guests can indulge in a plethora of entertainment options, ranging from the cosy cinema room to the exclusive private bowling alley. For those seeking outdoor recreation, the newly constructed tennis court offers the perfect setting for a friendly match. Additionally, the magnificent grand ballroom, accommodating up to 100 guests, sets the stage for celebrating milestone events in style. The Château Manager and Head Butler will be available throughout guests’ stay to deliver the impeccable services renowned of Mandarin Oriental.
    Since its cinematic debut in 1955 as the backdrop for Alfred Hitchcock’s “To Catch a Thief,” featuring the iconic duo Cary Grant and Grace Kelly, Château de la Croix des Gardes has been intricately woven into the fabric of cinematic history. As the Cannes Film Festival flourished, the Château became a favoured destination for Hollywood icons such as Brigitte Bardot. Today, this captivating estate continues to charm celebrities and international brands. Notably, last year it hosted Donatella Versace’s La Vacanza fashion show, further cementing its legacy as a timeless emblem of Riviera elegance.
    “This property perfectly reflects Mandarin Oriental’s commitment to exceptional service and guest experiences. From its meticulously curated amenities to its breathtaking surroundings, every detail has been thoughtfully curated to ensure an unparalleled level of luxury and hospitality.” Said Ersev Demiroz, General Manager, Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes. “We are thrilled to welcome Château de la Croix des Gardes to the Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes collection. Its seamless fusion of elegance, history, and luxury aligns with our commitment to offering extraordinary experiences to our discerning guests,” said Thomas Bennett, Co-Founder & CEO, StayOne.ADVERTISEMENTChâteau de la Croix des Gardes – Cannes, French RivieraPerched high above Cannes, indulge in the epitome of elegance at Château de la Croix des Gardes.Sleeps: 32Pricing available upon request
    For further information and bookings visit www.mandarinoriental.com/exclusive-homes
    Benefits of a Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Home include:Exclusive homes: inspected by Mandarin Oriental to ensure the utmost quality and safety standards, as well as prime locations within top leisure destinations. The homes can only be booked as part of Mandarin Oriental’s exclusive collection.Dedicated concierge: from initial booking right through to departure, a dedicated concierge will be on-hand to assist with pre-arrival requests and to arrange local experiences and transportation.Private, on-demand culinary experiences: an in-house private chef approved by Mandarin Oriental’s culinary experts will design bespoke menus based on guest preferences and local seasonal produce.Impeccable housekeeping: daily service inspired by Mandarin Oriental’s exacting housekeeping standards.Family-friendly experiences: special arrangements for children of all ages.
    Thorough health and safety standards: all homes undergo rigorous health and safety audits, including increased hygiene awareness, overseen by Mandarin Oriental’s risk management team.Luxurious amenities: from opulent bathrobes to sustainable bamboo toothbrushes, a suite of amenities unique to Mandarin Oriental will form part of the experience.Exclusive benefits for Mandarin Oriental regular guests: special benefits and experiences are provided for members of ‘Fans of M.O.’; the Group’s guest-recognition program.

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    Middle East region first to recover Chinese tourism numbers, boosting participation at ATM 2024

    According to research by Oxford Economics, outbound travel from China is estimated to almost double this year, compared with 2023 and will only be 22% below its peak pre-pandemic numbers of 155 million tourists in 2019, who spent over $250 billion overseas.
    Full recovery is expected to materialise in 2025, with the Middle East being the first region globally to recover its Chinese inbound market.
    Underscoring that prediction, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 which takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 6-9 May, is set to welcome twice the number of Chinese exhibitors and travel professionals, compared with its 2019 show.
    China lifted its covid-related travel restrictions on 8th January 2023, allowing Chinese tourists to travel abroad, without having to quarantine upon their return.  Bookings for overseas travel during Chinese New Year, soared by 540% compared with the same period in 2022, according to data from the Chinese travel site Trip.com.
    Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market commented, “Last year, some analysts were predicting that the Chinese outbound market would recover to around six million per month by the summer of 2023, driven in part by the pent-up demand especially from young, affluent Chinese. ADVERTISEMENT“However, that rebound wasn’t as great as many tourism professionals had hoped for and now analysts are confident that this year, we could see Chinese visitor numbers double year-on-year, with major destinations in the Middle East recovering quicker than any other internationally, especially for luxury travel.
    “That sentiment has also been borne out by the latest spending data for the 2024 Chinese New Year. According to Chinese payment platform Alipay, the number of Chinese overseas transactions were 7% higher than those recorded in 2019.
    “The most popular Middle East destinations include Dubai, Saudi’s AlUla, Egypt and Jordan – Dubai alone welcomed more than one million Chinese visitors in 2019,” said Curtis.
    Chinese participation at ATM 2024 is expected to more than double compared with ATM 2019, with new exhibitors that include private sector companies such as Heytrip International, Jiangsu Intelligence Equipment Co, Flightroutes24 Travel Company Ltd, Feeyo Technology and anticipated destination representation from Macao Government Tourism Office, China Cultural Centre in the UAE and the Hongkong Tourism Board.
    ATM is also organising a dedicated conference session on this key market in its Global Stage, entitled ‘Capitalising on China’s Predicted Tourism Surge’, in association with Huawei. This session, which takes place on Monday 6th May from 15:10 to 15:50, will explore the changing trends, cultural preferences and the role of mobile marketing and tourism predictions in the Chinese tourism market. In line with this year’s show theme ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, other highlights at the 31st edition of ATM include entrepreneurship-focused sessions as well as dedicated sessions for other key source markets such as India and the Americas. As well as showcasing a range of event features based around the theme, informative content will be delivered across the Global Stage and the new Future Stage at ATM 2024, led by respected industry keynote speakers, and thought leaders.Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024’s strategic partners include the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.

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    DFDS intensifies decarbonisation efforts with 100 additional e-trucks

    DFDS is placing an order for 100 electric trucks which will bring the total number of electric trucks in DFDS’s fleet to 225 in line with DFDS’ decarbonisation plan to become a net-zero company by 2050.
    The new electric trucks will be deployed in markets across Europe where DFDS already has electric trucks in operation while also planning to expand to new markets such as the UK, Ireland and Norway to meet the growing demand for low emissions transport solutions.
    The order of the additional 100 trucks cements DFDS’ position as a frontrunner in the transformation of the heavy-duty transport sector in Europe.
    “We want to drive the transition to more sustainable road transport. Our expanding fleet of electric trucks will not only contribute to reducing the climate impact of our operations. It will also enable DFDS to support more companies that are looking to decarbonise their supply chains. The 100 new electric trucks underline our commitment to pushing the development forward,” says Niklas Anderson, EVP, Logistics Division at DFDS.  
    The new electric trucks will be Volvo FH Electric and Volvo FM Electric.ADVERTISEMENT“I am very proud to continue our close partnership with DFDS. This order for an additional 100 Volvo electric trucks is proof of their trust in our company. The big increase of DFDS’ electric truck fleet shows that zero-emissions transport is a viable solution here and now”, says Roger Alm, President Volvo Trucks.
    DFDS currently has the largest fleet of heavy-duty electric trucks in Europe and takes another step to reach the target to have at least 25% of its truck fleet electrified by 2030.
    95 e-trucks are currently operational in Sweden, Denmark, Lithuania, Belgium, and the Netherlands with the remaining 30 due to be delivered during 2024. Due to the growing electric truck fleet, DFDS had reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 1.516 tonnes (Well-to-Wheel) by the end of 2023.
    In Denmark, DFDS has also deployed 52 electric reefer trailers, giving a near zero-emission transport capability for frozen and refrigerated cargo.
    DFDS placed an order for 100 electric trucks in October 2021 adding an additional 25 trucks two months later.

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    Jet2.com recognised by CAA for punctuality performance in Q4 of 2023

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    Jet2.com recognised by CAA for punctuality performance in Q4 of 2023

    Jet2.com has been recognised for its punctuality performance by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), after operating 77 percent of its flights on time between October and December 2023 which makes it the best of the UK’s major airlines.
    The latest Aviation Trends report from the CAA reviewed the on-time performance of both UK airlines and international airlines in the fourth quarter of 2023. It found that 67 percent of flights were on time overall.
    Jet2.com surpassed the industry average, operating 77 percent of its flights on time – arriving or departing the gate within 15 minutes of their scheduled time – between October and December 2023. This achievement makes Jet2.com the best of the UK’s major airlines for punctuality performance during that period. 
    The full Aviation Trends report by the CAA for quarter four of 2023 can be found here –  57 (caa.co.uk) 
    Jet2.com is repeatedly recognised for its continued commitment to delivering industry-leading customer service, seeing the airline receive a high number of prestigious accolades, in recognition of the way it looks after customers. Earlier this year, the airline was ranked as amongst the very best companies in the UK for delivering outstanding customer service by the latest Customer Satisfaction Index (UKCSI) and was also the only UK airline to be named a Which? Recommended Provider. ADVERTISEMENTPart of Jet2.com’s success can be attributed to its operational performance, including the very visible uniformed presence it has in place (referred to as the Red Team) in UK airports, as well as in main overseas airports and resorts. This team, comprising of thousands of colleagues, are on hand making an enormous difference in terms of assisting and guiding customers through their journey.
    Alongside this, Jet2.com also self-handle operations at seven UK airport bases – Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle International and London Stansted Airports, helping the airline to deliver an even better end-to-end experience for customers. 
    Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “Looking after our customers is at the heart of everything we do, and we are delighted to be recognised by the CAA for our punctuality performance in quarter four of 2023 which at 77 percent is the best of the UK’s major airlines. 
    “This feedback is testament to the hard work, dedication, and customer-first approach of our award-winning team who work tirelessly to look after each and every customer. The data shows that we are leading the way when it comes to getting customers away on time and this, combined with our VIP customer service, means customers can be assured they are in the best hands when they travel with Jet2.com”

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    The Greatest International Art Museum You’ve Never Heard of: North Carolina Museum of Art

    Where can you find one of North America’s largest museum art parks, a collection of 30 Rodin sculptures and one of only two permanent Judaic art displays in the country? Raleigh, the state capital of North Carolina, offers all of this and more.
    The North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) may not have the fame of the Louvre or the name recognition of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but it is undeniably a hidden gem in the art world, welcoming more than one million visitors to its campus in 2023. Nestled in Raleigh, N.C., this international art museum is home to a collection of 4,353 artworks from around the globe. With its diverse exhibitions and exquisite displays, it is a destination that deserves recognition and exploration. The idea for the Museum traces back to the establishment of the North Carolina State Art Society in 1924, with a mission to generate support for a state-funded art museum. An ambitious mission at the time, the Museum received funding from the North Carolina General Assembly in 1947, becoming the first state-funded art museum in the nation.
    Today the NCMA showcases an impressive collection that spans over 5,000 years of artistic history. The permanent collection, The People’s Collection, was fully re-installed in 2022 to share a more inclusive art historical narrative and to re-imagine a more dynamic experience of the arts through newly conceived geographic and thematic galleries. Notable changes include joining Egyptian art with African art, interactive and accessible digital labels and community voices, which invited citizens throughout North Carolina to respond to objects in the collection in conversation with labels written by museum curators. The People’s Collection includes works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Georgia O’Keeffe, El Anatsui and Yayoi Kusama, among many others. Remarkably, public admission to The People’s Collection is always free.
    The Museum’s Rodin collection of 30 sculptures is the most extensive Rodin collection between Philadelphia and the West Coast and is always on view inside the West Building and outdoors in the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Court and Garden. The Museum is also celebrating its 40th year of Judaic art and has a gallery devoted to historic ceremonial Jewish objects.  This collection is one of only two permanent Judaic art displays in an American art museum.
    One of the distinctive features of NCMA is its stunning outdoor park, filled with sculptures and installations that surprise and delight. As one of North America’s largest museum art parks, the 164-acre campus provides a serene and immersive experience where art and nature intertwine. Visitors can bike or stroll along 4.7 miles of trails, marvel at outdoor artworks, native plants and wildlife and enjoy live music in the Museum’s amphitheater. The Museum Park has been transformed over the last 40 years with the goals of stewardship and sustainability in mind. An ever-evolving space, current projects focus on stream restoration, stormwater management and connectivity.ADVERTISEMENTConsciousness is supported and spearheaded by NCMA’s Director, Valerie Hillings, who took on the role in 2018. Hillings previously worked in various senior positions at the Guggenheim and its partner institutions, curating more than 15 exhibitions on four continents. She is the ninth director of the Museum and the first woman in this role. With a strong leadership and curatorial background, Hillings initiated the reimagining of The People’s Collection in 2022, lifting diverse curatorial voices and enhancing the Museum’s accessibility features.
    In addition to its permanent collection and outdoor park, the Museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions catering to diverse artistic interests. Current exhibitions include To Take Shape and Meaning: Form and Design in Contemporary American Indian Art. Upcoming exhibitions include Venice and the Ottoman Empire, The Time is Always Now: Artists Reframe the Black Figure and the sell-out annual floral art installation Art In Bloom, which returns every March. The NCMA also offers educational programs, lectures, workshops, markets and performing arts and film events that engage visitors and community members of all ages and foster a deeper appreciation for the arts. Museum programs engaged over 220,000 people across all 100 North Carolina counties, reflecting collaborations with over 415 partners for 797 programs in 2023.
    Whether you are an art or history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the North Carolina Museum of Art is a destination worth adding to your bucket list. From its expansive collection to its beautiful outdoor park, this hidden gem offers a rich and immersive journey through the world of art.

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    Disney H2O Glow After Hours Returns to Walt Disney World, Bringing Waves of Neon Fun Starting May 25

    With summer break just around the corner, Walt Disney World Resort guests can get ready to have a “glowing’’ good time when Disney H2O Glow After Hours returns to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon starting May 25. Guests can look forward to magical late-night parties throughout the summer, giving them an opportunity to enjoy the tropical Disney water park with shorter wait times. The 2024 H2O Glow After Hours season offers more event nights than ever before, with 18 select evenings from May 25 to Aug. 31, 2024.
    This after-hours party turns the water park into a beach bash extravaganza, creating an energetic atmosphere with waves and pulsating beats. Guests can immerse themselves in radiant lighting effects, vibrant decor and high-energy DJ dance parties with some of their favorite Disney characters, like Goofy. New this year, cabanas will be available to rent online for groups looking for a private, reserved area during the event. 
    Cast members at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon are already getting their glow on with glow-in-the-dark chalk art to help showcase the fun experiences awaiting guests when H20 Glow returns. 
    Tickets for this event go on sale March 22 at DisneyWorld.disney.go.com/events-tours/typhoon-lagoon/h2o-glow-after-hours/ . Pre-sale will be available to Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests Mar. 19. Other party festivities include:
    Complimentary ice cream treats, popcorn and soda Complimentary towel rental Surprise character appearances Exclusive glow-themed food and beverage items Disney After Events Continue All Summer Long ADVERTISEMENTFor all the night owls out there, more dates have been added for the Disney After Hours events in our Walt Disney World theme parks. This means more time to enjoy tons of nighttime theme park fun all summer long. At Disney After Hours events, now through August 2024, guests get three late-night hours to ride their favorite attractions, see beloved characters and refuel on unlimited, complimentary snacks. These popular, separately ticketed events take place at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Typhoon Lagoon. Visit DisneyAfterHours.com for more information and event dates.
    For more information about Walt Disney World Resort Water Parks, visit DisneyWorld.Disney.go.com.

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