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    Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape Launches Exclusive Women’s Retreat With Beyond

    This exclusive retreat is a celebration of womanhood, crafted by women for women. The programme blends a holistic approach to personal empowerment and self-discovery with the serene natural splendour of Bali to nurture mind, body and soul. The retreat is led by two distinguished practitioners: Beata, a life coach and psychologist known for her expertise in guiding individuals towards a deeper understanding of themselves and the empowerment to shape their reality; and Kimberley, a yoga and meditation expert who guides participants on a dynamic journey of inner peace, self-connection, and personal growth through movement and mindfulness practices.
    A curated tapestry of activities will include including mindset reframing, mind training and somatic practice.. The daily itinerary will include a curated tapestry of activities such as:
    Grounding VinyasaBreathworkIce Bath Restorative Yoga Jungle Trekking Fire Ritual Evening Meditation Canang Compass Soul Freedom JourneyNestled in the Buahan valley of Bali, Banyan Tree Escape is the perfect backdrop for this life-enhancing experience, directly engaging with nature in its unique no walls, no doors concept.
    Beyond is a digital wellbeing companion with a meticulously curated retreats programme, guided by distinguished practitioners applying its codified framework of eight pillars of wellbeing.
    A place on the seven-day Buahan Women’s Retreat starts from £4,600 based on two sharing.. The retreat includes: accommodation in a jungle pool; daily brunch, dinner and refreshments; roundtrip airport transfers; a pre-retreat wellbeing assessment call; daily group sessions and workshops; wellbeing activities; one massage and local Balinese cultural experiences.ADVERTISEMENTp >A further programme of retreats is planned for 2024/2025 with dates to be announced.

    To book, please visit https://escape.banyantree.com/retreat

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    Ten Trending Destinations for 2024 Revealed by Kuoni in New Travel Forecast

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    Ten Trending Destinations for 2024 Revealed by Kuoni in New Travel Forecast

    Discovery tours of Namibia, great value beach breaks in Mauritius and glamping experiences in Thailand are all in demand for the year ahead according to the latest forecast from Kuoni.
    The report is based on a data from Kuoni’s peak January and February sales period so far and reflects places around the world which are enticing people to book.
    Even for premium travel, value for money is still a conversation many of Kuoni’s travel experts have been having with clients.  The Kuoni sales team has seen higher volumes of holiday bookings to Thailand, South Africa and India than last year, which all offer immersive travel experiences but favourable exchange rates which are amplifying the pounds’ worth.   
    Whilst iconic “bucket list” travel is still popular, Kuoni is seeing people asking about experiences beyond the well-trodden tourist trails.  The destination experts at Kuoni have created more travel options to many lesser-known regions, national parks and states, an example being a new itinerary in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, an often overlooked area that’s home to historic battlefields, mountain vistas and rich zulu cultures.
    Destinations appearing in Kuoni’s trending destinations list for 2024 include Mauritius, Thailand, Greece, Namibia, Sri Lanka, Portugal, South Africa, Canada, Grenada and India.ADVERTISEMENTThe island of Grenada, with a blend of beach plus rainforest, has climbed Kuoni’s destination chart and is becoming one of the stars of the Caribbean.  The hotel sector is evolving this year too, with Spice Island Resort making a stellar come-back after a substantial spruce-up and the much-anticipated debut of Six Senses La Lagesse in Spring set to turn heads.
    Nature and cool landscapes are a big draw for the year ahead, and Canada is enjoying an upturn in sales with independent self-drive trips and rail and sail holidays including the little-known Skeena Train which captures the beauty of British Columbia.
    Portugal and Greece are the stand-out places for premium short-haul travel.  In tune with the experiential travel wave, the volcanic archipelago of the Azores and self-drive tours in the Douro Valley and city breaks in Lisbon and Porto are drawing people to Portugal.  And in Greece, Kuoni is selling more island-hopping combinations like Santorini and Mykonos. Family bookings to Greece have risen with Ikos Resorts high on the wish list this summer.
    Sri Lanka sales are also on the rise again and it is reclaiming its place as one of the best-selling long-haul destinations for Kuoni. Looking ahead to this year, the focus is on sustainable growth and attractions like the Pekoe Trail, a new long-distance hiking route from the Hanthana Mountains to Nuwara Eliya’s hill stations.
    Thailand is also back on the map this year with rising sales.  The next series of White Lotus is creating a buzz along with a rising curiosity for more offbeat journeys.  The Bush Camp Chiang Mai, sister property to the award-winning Elephant Hills, is a top choice for seeing elephants in their natural habitat and this is being combined with glamping experiences at Raya Heritage.
    Marco Rocha, product and commercial director at Kuoni, said: “There’s a huge thirst for immersive travel this year and we’ve seen a huge diversity in terms of what people are booking so far, but with some clear trends emerging.
    We anticipated that value for money was going to be front of mind for all our customers this year, whether honeymooners, families, singles or older couples. We have been focussed on broadening our range and developing our commercial approach so we’re as competitive on price and service as we’ve ever been.
    Mauritius is winning out for Indian Ocean luxury at attractive prices. For those big trips, like South Africa and India, they are also proving great value and spending money on the ground goes a long way.  It’s great to see places like Namibia taking off as it’s something of a well-kept secret in Africa often overshadowed by the safari giants like Kenya and Tanzania. 
    We’ve had a strong start to the year, but anticipate that we’ll also see demand come through later this year as well as people assess their travel plans and budgets. But all evidence shows that travel is very much on the priority list for the year ahead.”

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    St. Maarten’s Newest Luxury Resort and Residences, Vie L’Ven, Launches Sales

    Altree Developments, a Toronto-based, multi-generational, full-service development company is set to redefine luxury living in St. Maarten and today announces they have launched sales at their newest development, Vie L’Ven (life to life), a luxury resort and residences with 280 units, that is slated for completion in 2028.“Vie L’Ven seamlessly coalesces the influences of both French and Dutch cultures which are truly represented in this incomparable development through exceptional living, dining and wellness experiences,” says Zev Mandelbaum, founder of Altree. “Serving as a love letter to St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven encourages homeowners and guests to embrace living life to the fullest, while soaking in the island’s natural beauty and tranquility, where European culture blends effortlessly with Caribbean aptitude.”
    Set in a pristine location on Indigo Bay, on the southwest Dutch side of the island, Vie L’Ven will feature a collection of fully furnished residences, alongside a luxury five-star hotel. Of the 280 units, 190 units will be hotel rooms (60 of which will be suites) and 90 private residences.
    The ResidencesThoughtfully designed by award-winning architectural firm HKS Architects, with interiors by Toronto’s internationally renowned, award-winning Studio Munge, the development is authentically inspired by both French and Dutch cultures.
    The residences, with sales and marketing being led by St. Maarten’s Sotheby’s International Realty, will range from one-, one-and-a-den, and two-and-a-den-bedroom suites that will span from 600 to 6,000 square feet and will be available for purchase in a variety of layouts. Pricing ranges from $800,000 to over $2 million. Serving as a retreat and sanctuary of privacy, the luxurious suites will boast playful patterns and woven textures, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Upon entrance, guests and homeowners will be met by a predominantly cream-white palette, accented with energetic corals or oceanic blues to reflect the island. Taking it a step further, Vie L’Ven will offer homeowners the option to upgrade with custom furniture packages, inclusive of full bedroom sets, living and dining room additions, and more.
    Vibrant Resort + AmenitiesThe resort will embrace the island’s energy and diversity and create an exclusive destination for islanders and guests by providing a one-of-a-kind, world-class experience. Upon arrival, Vie L’Ven offers awe-inspiring first impressions with striking sculptural artwork, and dispersed throughout the resort, guests can take in the visuals from the dynamic art program unfolding against a dark wood-paneled backdrop featuring intricate carved geometrical patterns. Textures and patterns such as coral stone floors, natural oak and more are implemented in the design and architecture to infuse authenticity and tactility to the resort. Amenities will include three swimming pools, 24/7 concierge services, a kid’s center, event spaces, a superb fitness center and world-class spa with an outdoor experiential bathing garden and treatment spaces. Upon request, wellness memberships and wellness suites will be made available which will include tailored programming, wellness centric elevated fixtures and more. Lastly, the resort will be home to three restaurants, including a signature restaurant, by a Michelin-starred artisan Chef who will share his incomparable cuisine with the island.ADVERTISEMENTCaptivating IslandKnown as the home of the friendly people, St. Maarten is one of the most culturally diverse destinations in the world and has established itself as the “European melting pot” of the Caribbean with its multicultural identity and range of influences. Easily accessible by air and sea, St. Maarten is on its way to becoming a “stop-and-stay” destination, bursting with languages, cuisines, and traditions from around the world. Although petite in size, the island offers an experience for everyone, whether it be exhilarating nightlife, breathtaking views, prestigious sailing, and more, creating the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. Upon completion, Vie L’Ven will be one of two five-star resorts on the island, and will provide residence owners and visitors a new standard of unmatched luxury.

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    The Best Mother’s Day Wellness Retreats for Healthier Mums

    This Mother’s Day, treat your Mum to the luxurious wellness retreat she deserves so she can be the healthiest version of herself. With Mother’s Day on 10th March, Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holidays specialists recommend the top retreats to take Mum away to.With a luxurious stay in Lithuania from £370 to an awe-inspiring adventure to Austria valued at £1,700, there are healthy breaks to cater for a range of budgets for all Mums to enjoy this Mother’s Day. So, whether it’s a serene snowy retreat in a captivating treehouse resort nestled in the Dolomites of Italy or a lavish spa experience in the sunny Algarve of Portugal, these unforgettable destinations are perfect for each and every mother.
    Scotland: Experience at Gleneagles

    Treat your Mum to an awe-inspiring spa experience escape in the striking landscapes of Scotland on this thrilling weekend wellness experience. She’ll be spoilt for choice with the diversity of her surroundings, from dramatic mountain faces and cascading waterfalls to the serenity of lochs and white sandy beaches. With the fascinating range of novel activities to try; gundog training, falconry, horse riding, and more, this will no doubt be a getaway for your Mum to remember. Not to mention the phenomenal range of restaurants available including the only one in Scotland with two Michelin Stars.
    ADVERTISEMENTHealth and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 2 nights at Gleneagles from £525pp. Price includes accommodation, breakfast and return private transfers.

    Italy: My Wellbeing at My Arbor

    What Mum wouldn’t love an adventure to the breath-taking Dolomites for a luxurious spa experience? These Italian mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their natural beauty, are home to a very special retreat – My Arbor. This unique treehouse seamlessly blends in with the encompassing environment, creating the perfect setting for your Mum to enjoy opulent therapies whilst grounding herself and reconnecting with nature. Also included are daily group activities like yoga and Pilates with personal coaching so Mum feels the profound benefits after her stay.

    Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 4 nights at My Arbor from £1530pp. Price includes accommodation, breakfast, a wellness programme and return private transfers.
    Portugal: Relax & Pamper at Conrad Algarve
    It’s no surprise that many Mums dream of escaping for a much needed rest, so, look no further than the Algarve. The climate here is nothing short of perfect for a healthy holiday in the sun. Conrad offers an extensive range of activities your Mum will no doubt love from the winemaking and market chef experiences to boat trips and eco bike tours to explore the picturesque coastline, the opportunity for discovery here is unparalleled! When your mum isn’t exploring, she can wind down at the award-winning spa with personalised massage therapies, so she returns home reinvigorated.

    Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 2 nights at Conrad Algarve from £665pp. Price includes accommodation, breakfast, a wellness programme and return private transfers.

    Lithuania: Fusion Fitness™ at Vilnius Grand Resort
    There aren’t many things in life that can instantly make you feel as good as exercise does. If your Mum loves to get those endorphins running, there’s no experience quite like a signature FusionFitness™ break. An escape to Vilnius, secluded amongst 900 acres of luscious Lithuanian countryside offers a beautiful backdrop of nature to enjoy on this journey. She’ll choose from a selection of 28 wellness activities including cardio, strength and sport, meditation, massages and so much more, tailoring her experience to match her wellness goals precisely. For all the active Mums, this is an opportunity for a fitness getaway they won’t forget.

    Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 4 nights at Vilnius Grand Resort from £370pp. Price includes accommodation, breakfast, a wellness programme and return private transfers.

    Austria: Mayr Short Stay at Park Igls

    Whisk your Mum away to the stunning Austrian Alps this Mother’s Day for a reviving short wellness stay at Park Igls. Just above the snowy city of Innsbruck, sits this world-class resort tucked away among the pristine mountain range. Here, she’ll feel the full potential of Modern Mayr medicine; her stay will begin with a comprehensive medical examination to allow for a personalised Mayr diet plan, daily Kneipp treatments and a selection of wellness therapies to leave her feeling completely renewed. With access to spa facilities, fitness classes, and even lifestyle management and mental coaching; the capacity for her profound transformation here is simply undeniable.

    Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 4 nights at Park Igls from £1,775pp. Price includes accommodation, full board, a wellness programme and return private transfers.
    -Ends-
    For further information and imagery please email [email protected]
    Notes to Editors:
    About Health and Fitness Travel
    Health and Fitness Travel is a global luxury wellness travel company that originated in the UK in 2010 and is committed to providing healthy holidays that enhance and change lives. Created by Paul Joseph as a result of his passion for health and fitness travel and offering bespoke holidays to improve people’s well-being to lead happier and healthier lives.
    Health and Fitness Travel offers clients a tailor-made seamless service with the very best health and fitness holidays, handpicked by its expert team, together with exclusive and added value packages with the best deals. As leading specialists, Health and Fitness Travel has also created their own collection of trademark healthy holidays in various destinations which include Fusion Fitness™, Mindful Triathlon™, BodyBreaks™ and Discover Recover™, offering clients the best value and holiday experience. 
    For more information visit: www.healthandfitnesstravel.com

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    New Bear Watch Tours in Alaska Promise Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters

    If you are looking for the best bear watch tours in Alaska then check out Bear Viewing in Alaska because they have now introduced some new bear watch tour packages in theory portfolio for a mindful bear watching in Alaska. All their tours come with an itinerary that offers everything from bear watching to delicious food and a friendly stay.
    bear viewing alaska
    Why Visit Alaska for Bear Watching?Alaska has been home to a different scope of untamed life. From Bald Eagles to otters to remarkable types of bears, there’s no lack of entrancing untamed life seen here. A bear-seeing tour is no doubt the most special experience you have during your outing to the Last Wilderness.
    If you’re keen on bear watching, make the most of our Creeks Falls Bear tours. Every bear watching tour offered by Bear Viewing in Alaska is driven by a specialist Alaskan Naturalist Guide who can ensure you’ll see bears, making it one of the most mind-blowing open doors for bear seeing in The Frozen North. Peruse on to become familiar with this stand-out experience!
    Keen on adding a bear seeing visit to your Alaska schedule? Book our Streams Falls Bear tour by Bear Viewing in Alaska. We can hardly hold on to assist you with arranging the outing that could only be described as epic!ADVERTISEMENTAll that You Want to Realize About the Creeks Falls Bear Watch Tour
    AccessibilityThe Streams Falls Bear Survey Visit is accessible from Anchorage. This tour incorporates airplane transportation to and from Streams Falls as well as three hours at the Falls’ bear seeing region.
    If you can’t make it during these dates, just relax! You can book another of our bear watch tours at Katmai Public Park or Lake Clark. These choices are accessible from mid-May to early September and begin at $695 per individual including airplane transportation.
    Bear Tour ScheduleThe Creeks Falls Bear Survey Visit permits you to get an inside take a gander at brown beachfront bears (peninsular mountain bears), wild bears, and more right at home.
    For more information visit https://bearviewinginalaska.com/

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    SFO Introduces ‘San Fran-disco’: A Silent Disco Experience for Travelers

    The San Francisco International Airport (SFO), which launched its “Quiet Airport” program in 2018 to reduce terminal noise, announced the debut of a Silent Disco, in which passengers are invited to dance along to San Francisco-themed music using their own headphones. Dubbed “San Fran-disco”, the silent dance party will run from February 14 – March 15, 2024 in the post-security area of Harvey Milk Terminal 1.
    Here’s how to join:
    Go to the SFO “San Fran-disco” dance floor, located post-security in Harvey Milk Terminal 1 near the Johnston & Murphy store (look for the disco ball!)Connect your headphones to your mobile deviceAuthenticate to SFO’s fast, free wi-fi network: #SFO Silent DiscoPress the play iconDance to a curated set of songs with a San Francisco connection!Travelers can also access the SFO Silent Disco station via flysfo.com/disco

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    UN Tourism Secretary-General Concludes Successful Visit to Iran, Emphasizing Tourism Resilience

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    UN Tourism Secretary-General Concludes Successful Visit to Iran, Emphasizing Tourism Resilience

    The Secretary-General of UN Tourism has concluded an official visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran.
    Zurab Pololikashvili led a high-level delegation to the country to join the official inauguration of the Tehran International Tourism Exhibition and for a series of bilateral meetings to advance common goals around tourism resilience, diversity and rural development.
    Secretary-General Pololikashvili joined Iran’s President, His Excellency Ebrahim Raisi, in opening the 17th edition of the Exhibition. At the leading event, UN Tourism reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Iran grow its tourism sector through promotion and investments, while also supporting the country in educating a new generation of tourism workers. Mr Pololikashvili also met with the Mayor of Tehran, Ali Reza Zakani, with bilateral talks focusing on working together to make the city a more attractive destination both for tourists and for investors.
    The Secretary-General explored the Tehran International Tourism Exhibition alongside Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, Ezzatollah Zarghami and Deputy Minister Dr. Ali Asghar Mounesan. The UN Tourism leadership commended their hard work building the sector, with particular recognition of how tourism is celebrating Iran’s diverse ethnic groups and traditions while also providing a common vision for the future of the country. Representing UN Tourism’s growing Affiliate Members network, the CEO of Abbas Abad Cultural and Tourism Area, Seyed Hossein Hejazi, also met with Secretary-General Pololikashvili to make clear the role the private sector is playing in advancing shared goals.
    In line with the Organization’s emphasis on rural development, Governor Malek Rahmati was presented with a plaque to commemorate Kandovan being included in the list of Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism. The significant potential for growing tourism as a pillar of rural development, benefitting communities across Iran, was also noted, with UN Tourism ready to work with destinations to help them join the Best Tourism Villages network.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Cool Times Await in Andermatt as Cotton Club Arrives

    Mountain lovers can experience the new must-visit winter destination as COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT throws open its doors offering guests luxurious comfort, winter sun, and an immersive experience in the clear, bright, Alpine glow – Switzerland’s coolest new location.The brainchild of Norwegian entrepreneurs Christian and Merete Marstrander, COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT brings the COTTON LIFESTYLE to life. Known for their passion for both snow and sand, the Marstranders have created a forward-thinking vision of hospitality that has now arrived in Andermatt. With world-class service, meticulous attention to detail, and a dedication to ensuring each guest feels the special effect of the Cotton Club lifestyle, they have transformed Andermatt into a winter destination like no other.
    At the heart of the COTTON CLUB credo lies personal conviction and drive. While James Bond may have been the first global superstar to visit Andermatt, with the famous chase on the Furka Pass filmed there in ‘Goldfinger’ in 1964, all visitors can now experience the remarkable beauty of this super-luxe winter destination in the Ursen valley at the foot of the Gotthard Pass.

    Andermatt is an exclusive resort that boasts the largest snow cover in all of Switzerland. Situated at the centre of the Saint-Gotthard Massif, it offers a haven for advanced skiers, families, and free-riders alike. With its convenient proximity to Lugano, Lucerne, Bern, and Zürich, Andermatt sits at an elevation of 1,437 meters above sea level. The Gemsstock ski area and a chairlift that connects the village with Nätschen’s gentler slopes are easily accessible, making it a perfect destination for both day and night activities.
    ADVERTISEMENTThe COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT venue offers a rare and enchanting bonus: a stunning dome made from Polycarbonate Transparent Glass with a 360-degree view of the natural mountainscape, a trademark of the Cotton Lifestyle. The marriage of mountain scenery with a Mediterranean mindset has resulted in a fairy-tale environment of natural hues, materials, and designs inspired by local traditions. This soothing ambience, with blissful creamy colours, pale wood, clean lines, and striking interior accents of fire and chandeliers, wraps guests in a luxurious level of comfort and cosiness. It provides the perfect retreat after a day on the slopes and induces an intense feeling of well-being.

    Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including picturesque valleys and pristine lakes, COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT welcomes up to 200 guests for drinks and dining. The menu options are fabulous, with a Raw Bar offering caviar, ceviche choices, and fish tartare dishes. The Sushi menu delivers a vast range of specialities and premium rolls, while salads and starters include Iberian Bellota ham and Greek Salad. For the main course, guests can indulge in a Thai curry or choose from veal, chicken, or lamb dishes. And of course, there’s a delectable selection of desserts, including Tiramisu, chocolate, and lemon sorbet.

    Before dinner, guests can enjoy a glass or two of champagne or choose from the extensive COTTON Signatures cocktail list. From the Algarve Club to the Gingerbread Martini, Nut Spritz, and Chocolate Banana Boulevardier, there’s something to tempt every palate. The expansive wine list prominently features European wines, and for those who prefer non-alcoholic options, there are all-natural juices, special mocktails, and a range of spirits, soft drinks, and refreshments.

    COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT brings a new level of luxury to the hidden gem of Andermatt, which is already ranked among the top 10 off-piste ski areas in the world. With its outstanding hospitality, uncompromising focus on great personal service, outstanding food, and authentic attitude, Andermatt is now home to the largest ski resort in central Switzerland, boasting a total of 180 km of pistes and 30 lifts. And with the addition of COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT in 2024, the resort’s attractions have reached new heights.

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