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    With New Michelin Honors, San Francisco Retains its Culinary Crown

    Last week’s prestigious 2023 MICHELIN Guide California awards made one thing clear: San Francisco remains the culinary capital of the Golden State. The City by the Bay boasts 27 Michelin-starred restaurants, and the San Francisco Bay Area is now home to 50 of the 87 California restaurants awarded Michelin stars.Two San Francisco restaurants – Aphotic, a restaurant specializing in sustainable and dry-aged seafood, and Nari, a Thai restaurant – earned their first Michelin stars, and all of the city’s previously awarded two-star and three-star restaurants retained their honors. Aphotic was also honored with a Michelin Green Star, which recognized the establishment for its commitment to sustainability. Altogether, San Francisco is home to half of the state’s three-star Michelin restaurants and five of its 12 two-star establishments, plus three of its 15 Green Star restaurants.
    Michelin also recognized the city’s rising culinary talent for the second year in a row. Chef Harrison Cheney, the executive chef at Sons & Daughters, received the prestigious Michelin Young Chef Award, which was awarded to Chef David Yoshimura of San Francisco’s Nisei last year.
    “For a small city only seven-by-seven square miles, San Francisco is one of the world’s great gastronomic hubs,” said Joe D’Alessandro, the president and CEO of the San Francisco Travel Association. “We are thrilled to see the city’s incredible culinary scene recognized again by Michelin.”
    “This year’s new Michelin Guide highlights the diversity and quality of our San Francisco restaurant community. With our access to the highest quality local ingredients, regional wines and highly dedicated chefs, our local culinary scene continues to be a highlight for locals and tourists alike,” said Laurie Thomas, Executive Director of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association and CEO of Nice Ventures.
    The wider San Francisco Bay Area also shined with new stars. Calistoga’s Auro and Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Chez Noir each earned one Michelin Star, while Oakland’s Pomet was also honored with a Green Star.ADVERTISEMENTJohn Schafer of Healdsburg’s SingleThread was recognized with the Michelin Outstanding Service Award, and John Haffey of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Aubergine was presented with the Michelin Sommelier Award.
    Earlier this month, Michelin added four Bay Area restaurants to its Bib Gourmand roster, which recognizes restaurants with great food at an affordable price point. The additions include San Francisco’s Bansang, Oakland’s Snail Bar and Bombera, and San Jose’s Petiscos.
    Sixteen San Francisco restaurants are designated Bib Gourmands, and 70 are featured as Michelin Selects in the 2023 MICHELIN California guide.
    Full details on the restaurants and Michelin’s inspector notes can be found on the MICHELIN Guide website

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    MANDARIN ORIENTAL EXCLUSIVE HOMES UNVEILS THE ULTIMATE UK SUPERCAR EXPERIENCE

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    MANDARIN ORIENTAL EXCLUSIVE HOMES UNVEILS THE ULTIMATE UK SUPERCAR EXPERIENCE

    Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes, the brand’s hand-picked collection of the world’s most luxurious private vacation homes, operated in collaboration with StayOne, unveils an exciting new experience for their UK properties.
    Guests are invited to embark on an extraordinary journey, pairing a stay at any Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Home in the UK, with a bespoke supercar tour through the quintessentially British countryside. Offered in partnership with Auto Vivendi, the world’s largest private members’ supercar club, guests have their choice of the latest supercars, from Maserati’s to Ferrari’s.
    Guests can delight in the convenience of having their handpicked supercar delivered directly to the doorstep of any Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Home in the UK. Select to stay at the majestic Georgian manor, Cirencester Estate, and tour the idyllic Cotswolds or revel in the laid-back luxury of Bittescombe Lodge & Deer Park, with a drive to remember through the rolling hills of Somerset. A leisurely breakfast kick starts the experience, ahead of the bespoke supercar tour, driving approximately 120 miles with personalised tuition throughout. Break up the day and indulge in a traditional gastro-pub lunch, before continuing the afternoon with more exhilarating driving. After a day of excitement, the exceptional hospitality of a Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Home beckons. Enjoy fully-serviced private accommodation, complemented by personally tailored menus from the in-house chef.
    To further enhance this extraordinary experience, private helicopter transfers can be arranged with Fly Victor, with on-site landing options. Both Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes include daily housekeeping, private chef service, a dedicated concierge and luxurious Mandarin Oriental amenities.
    “Our collaboration with Mandarin Oriental has allowed us to redefine the market delivering unparalleled experiences. We have pioneered a distinctive offering in the luxury villa space and look forward to the ongoing co-creation of exceptional end-to-end luxury experiences for our esteemed guests.” said Thomas Bennett, CEO & Co-Founder of StayOne.ADVERTISEMENTUKBittescombe Lodge & Deer Park – Somerset, EnglandSituated in the heart of the West Country, surrounded by nature and tranquillity, this property is the epitome of secluded luxury. All ten en-suite bedrooms are architecturally unique, each with unmistakable charm and opulent furnishings. A myriad of elegant living areas offer private nooks to curl up with a book, outdoor spaces with open fireplaces, as well as spacious entertainment lounges with a fully-stocked bar and snooker table. The lodge sits upon a 400-acre estate and the culinary and sporting experiences on offer are inspired by the undulating valleys, brooks and the property’s very own deer population.Sleeps: 20 guestsImageswww.mandarinoriental.com/en/Exclusive-Homes/Bittescombe-Lodge-and-Deer-Park
    Cirencester Estate – The Cotswolds, EnglandA Georgian-style manor in the heart of the charming Cotswolds. Recently constructed, this mansion forms part of an imposing 600-acre estate of beautiful countryside and first-rate amenities, including a tennis court, lawns and gardens, terraces and verandas and a heated outdoor swimming pool. There are also two converted barns that can offer up to eight more bedrooms, or a large venue for celebrations and corporate events, upon request.Sleeps: 20 guestsImageshttps://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/exclusive-homes/cirencester-estate

    Available now, the Ultimate Supercar Experience includes the following, based on a group of six adults:2-night accommodation at any Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Home in the UK, Cirencester Estate or Bittescombe Lodge with:Daily housekeepingPrivate chef serviceDedicated conciergeLuxurious Mandarin Oriental amenitiesHandpicked supercar delivered to the front door of any Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Home in the UK.Leisurely breakfast followed by supercar tour on breathtaking country roads, driving approximately 120 miles with one-on-one tuition and guidance throughout.Day includes a gastro-pub lunch, followed by an afternoon of driving.Return to your Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Home late afternoon for cocktails & canapés, and a stay inspired by Mandarin Oriental’s legendary hospitality.Elevate your experience with heli transfers to and from your Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Home, courtesy of Fly Victor.Discover more here.Images
    To book the Ultimate Supercar Experience with Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes, please register your enquiry directly with Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes via email at [email protected] or browse the offering in more detail at our website. Rates vary depending on booking dates, home selection and group size, terms and conditions apply. The offer is subject to availability.
    View the full collection of Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes here: www.mandarinoriental.com/exclusive-homes

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    Mabrian enters next phase of strategic growth

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    Mabrian enters next phase of strategic growth

    Mabrian announces strategic growth plan as part of evolution to become the number one travel intelligence tool globally.In addition to the Middle East and North America push the company will also expand further into providing services to hotels, airlines and other private sector businesses.
    Travel intelligence leader Mabrian is delighted to announce its strategic growth plan as part of its evolution to become the number one travel intelligence tool globally. The company is delighted to unveil its new strategy, which will focus on leveraging its robust platform, forming new partnerships, expanding internationally, and attracting talent.
    As part of this strategy Mabrian has appointed Diana Munoz as Strategic Growth Advisor to the Executive Team.  Over a decade as a Senior Vice President in Mastercard, Munoz held various global positions managing strategic partnerships, and fostering growth for over a decade.  Prior to Mastercard, Diana held senior positions in Citi EMEA and Latam and in American Express North America and Latam.
    Under Diana’s advice, Mabrian’s new strategy will focus on international expansion. The company is poised for exponential development and growth in new regions such as the United States or the Middle East, despite already operating in 40 countries. This expansion will be achieved through strategic partnerships at a global level and the exploration of new business segments within the private sector. These initiatives aim to support Mabrian’s existing global leadership in providing intelligence services to tourist destinations.
    For the past eight years, Mabrian has been at the forefront of offering travel data and insights through its artificial intelligence-powered visual dashboard. What sets it apart is its ability to integrate multiple sources of data, enabling it to track the complete traveller’s journey, including air travel, hotel stays, destination spending, and social impressions. Mabrian leverages over 20 global data sources to gain a comprehensive understanding of visitor profiles and behaviour, helping destinations optimise their promotional strategies and maximise spending.ADVERTISEMENTWith an impressive 85% service renewal rate, Mabrian’s development is supported by its high customer loyalty. In addition, the company continuously improves its Artificial Intelligence systems, allowing for the identification and forecasting of tourism trends using Big Data analytics. These ongoing advancements in AI strengthen Mabrian’s position as an industry leader.
    “Mabrian is delighted to welcome Diana Munoz as a Strategic Advisor to our executive team” stated Santi Camps, Founder & CEO at Mabrian. “Diana’s in-depth understanding of the travel industry and her strategic vision will be instrumental in driving our growth and establishing Mabrian as a global leader in travel intelligence. We are confident that her appointment will enable us to seize new opportunities and strengthen our position.”
    Camps added: “Mabrian’s client base speaks to the strength of our offerings. Now, we are expanding our services to the private sector, exploring new regions, and actively engaging in partnerships with key consulting firms.
    This growth trajectory has us incredibly excited and ready to take on new challenges.“Diana Munoz, in her new role as a Strategic Advisor, expressed her enthusiasm about joining Mabrian, stating, “After many years of working with Mabrian as a partner, I am delighted to be a part of this new phase in its journey and excited to contribute to its international expansion. Mabrian’s advanced technology, combined with its strong client base and exceptional team, positions us for tremendous growth. I look forward to leveraging my expertise and working closely with the team to capitalise on the opportunities ahead and drive success in this new phase.”

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    MANDARIN ORIENTAL EXCLUSIVE HOMES ADDS ITS FIRST AFRICAN PROPERTY WITH VILLA D MARRAKECH

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    MANDARIN ORIENTAL EXCLUSIVE HOMES ADDS ITS FIRST AFRICAN PROPERTY WITH VILLA D MARRAKECH

    Located a short drive from Marrakech (15km), Villa D is a contemporary Moroccan haven set just outside the vibrant city and is the latest property to be added to Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes, a branded collection of the world’s finest private home, 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.
    Perfect for large groups sleeping up to 20 guests in 10 bedrooms, the spacious home designed by French architecture firm Studio KO – the designers behind the iconic Musée Yves Saint Laurent, fosters a deep connection with the natural desert surroundings, with a variety of perfectly arranged outdoor spaces to enjoy. Guests can spend tranquil days beside the 25-metre pool, in the shade of the garden lounge, or in the Beldi-inspired farmhouse patio. A traditional hammam is nestled in the heart of the garden, and a state-of-the-art spa is dedicated to relaxation and wellbeing.
    Inside, textural architecture is ever present, with an uncomplicated yet elegant design which seamlessly complements the rustic structures. Two spacious living rooms feature open fireplaces, and a spectacular dining room is perfect for cooler evenings. The sumptuous, 100-square-metre master suite boasts a private terrace, statement fireplace and freestanding bathtub. Two smaller independent suites enjoy a shared terrace and en-suites with both indoor and outdoor showers. Four additional bedrooms are found within the main villa, each with a private patio and sharing an impressive shower room. Crafted by skilled local artisans and nestled amidst quaint paddocks, the separate farmhouse accommodates the three remaining bedrooms.
    As with all Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes, Villa D includes an on-hand dedicated concierge to assist with pre-arrival requests, local experiences and transportation, and a Villa Manager to ensure a seamless stay. Daily housekeeping service inspired by Mandarin Oriental’s exacting standards and 50 hours of private chef service per week are also included and approved by Mandarin Oriental’s culinary experts. With Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains and the desert within close proximity to the villa, a wide range of activities can be arranged for guests from yoga & meditation and in villa spa treatments, hot air balloon flight, desert excursions & stargazing, quad biking, cooking class with home-grown produce and activities for little ones. A short 20-minutes’ drive away is Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech – set among 20 hectares of landscaped, fragrant gardens and with renowned dining outlets Ling Ling by Hakkasan and Shirvan.
    ADVERTISEMENTFollowing Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes’ successful debut in 2022, the Group is now delighted to introduce an expanded collection of properties perfect for summer 2023. Along with Villa D, new homes include an exquisitely restored masseria’s in Puglia, flawless contemporary villas with panoramic views from Super Cannes to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a stunning property nestled in the hills of Marbella and an exotic Balinese estate perched high on a cliffside in Uluwatu.

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    100 days before 100 years of Finnair

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    Jamaica to Host 42nd Caribbean Travel Marketplace

    Jamaica has been selected to host the 42nd edition of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace on May 20-22, 2024, the CHTA announced over the weekend.The CHTA’s most important event brings together buyers and sellers of the Caribbean’s tourism products and services. The Caribbean Travel Marketplace was last held in Jamaica just prior to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019.
    Next year’s event will be held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre.
    “We at CHTA are delighted that Jamaica is building on the enormous success of our Marketplace this year in Barbados because it is where deals are made, allowing new and established buyers from all corners of the world to access a rich offering of travel products and experiences throughout the Caribbean,” CHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig said in a statement.According to Madden-Greig, the marketplace is “where those of us in the industry meet, collaborate, strategize and get smarter about how best to share the Caribbean experience with visitors from around the world.”
    Marketplace 42 will offer some new elements designed to enhance the overall experience that the CHTA President likened to the Caribbean Travel Forum & Awards.The Forum will take place on Monday, May 20, just ahead of the official start of Marketplace. Highlights will include thought leaders and experts from several destinations and organizations and focus on the tourism business.
    “At Caribbean Travel Marketplace, we can show the world how the Caribbean tourism sector’s resilience has made our destination secure and safe for locals and visitors alike,” added Jamaica Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett. “It is quite fitting to have Jamaica host this premier regional event as we continue on our path to growth.”ADVERTISEMENT“This event will add greatly to our tourism suppliers and buyers and ultimately create strong partnerships moving forward. It will also provide multi-destination opportunities for participants who may want to have different experiences over the period,” said Bartlett.
    “This prestigious event offers an important platform to showcase the rich offerings and experiences of Jamaica and the wider Caribbean region,” Robin Russell, President of the Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association (JHTA), said in a statement.
    Source: Travel Pulse

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    Ethiopian Airlines , Boeing and ThinkYoung Inaugurate STEM School in Ethiopia

    Ethiopian Airlines, Boeing and ThinkYoung have launched the STEM School, an initiative designed to equip young individuals and teachers in Ethiopia with the necessary skills for better employment opportunities. The program focuses on underprivileged African youth especially women, fostering their pursuit of higher education in STEM with a focus on aviation.
    The STEM School will be hosted at the Ethiopian Airlines Aviation University, leveraging the expertise of the flagship carrier of Ethiopia. This collaboration ensures that students and teachers will benefit from the extensive knowledge and resources of the fastest growing Airline in Africa, enhancing their educational experience and providing them with real-world insights.
    Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Mr. Mesfin Tasew said about the program: “We are delighted in our collaboration with Boeing and ThinkYoung to launch the STEM School initiative, which helps Ethiopian youths to succeed in education and in their future careers, primarily in aviation fields, and to become the next generation of innovators. We believe in going at a compatible pace with the speed of technology and being prepared for future demands. This cooperation and initiative will develop young people to meet the future needs of the fast-growing Ethiopian aviation industry.”
    A comprehensive, immersive program spanning six weeks, the STEM School will provide over 300 hours of classes and hands-on training. The program will welcome 24 students in grades 11-12 from different regions of Ethiopia. 50% of students will be girls. The students will learn the basics of STEM, coding and programming as well as soft skills such as teamwork and problem-solving. Job shadowing at Ethiopian Airlines will allow students to experience various STEM-related roles and improve skills gained during the program. The students will have an opportunity to meet with the professionals from Ethiopian Airlines who will mentor them during their individual projects. This internship also has the added benefit of providing professional recommendations, resume-worthy experience, and networking opportunities.
    Kuljit Ghata-Aura, president of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye and Africa commented, “The partnership between Ethiopian Airlines, ThinkYoung, and Boeing embodies a perfect blend of leadership in African aviation, global aerospace innovation, and educational excellence. This synergy will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the STEM School, facilitating the creation of a steady talent pipeline to support growing commercial aviation in Ethiopia.”ADVERTISEMENTAnbessie Yitbarek, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Sales and Marketing vice president in Africa added, “We value our partnerships with Ethiopian Airlines and trusted NGOs that in the long run help boost the economy in Ethiopia and beyond by developing and attracting local talent. We are proud of the community work we do in Africa and believe in developing the skills and encouraging young people to consider the aviation industry for their studies and careers.”
    Another portion of the partnership is the Teacher Training Program. 24 educators from Ethiopia will attend a teaching workshop to improve their ability to teach advanced STEM concepts. After one week of training the teachers will return home with a kit they can use in their classrooms.
    Andrea Gerosa, founder of ThinkYoung Africa said, “ThinkYoung is honored to join forces with Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines in introducing our transformative STEM School program, aimed at supporting Ethiopia’s commitment to addressing skills gaps, particularly in the field of STEM education. Together, we want to create a lasting impact on the lives of Ethiopians, empowering them with the essential education and skills needed to not only adapt but thrive in the ever-evolving digital future.”

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    Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone: New Poll Unpicks Travellers’ Desire for Challenge

    Leading online Travel Agent Opodo’s latest poll of 10,000 respondents across international markets* – 2,000 from the UK – reveals traveller motivation for getting out of our comfort zones, what that means when it comes to holidays, and how the benefits are felt.
    The majority of respondents associate a trip outside of comfort zone with a holiday where they need to learn survival techniques (21%) followed by 20% who see it instead as an improvised trip – without prior organisation.  16% of respondents perceive solo travelling to be an ‘out of comfort zone activity’
    24% of UK respondents report they have already travelled to a destination out of their comfort zone and of those the younger age groups are the most experienced – 52% of 18-24 year-olds compared to just 19% of those aged 55-64
    20% of UK travellers report that they have not tried this type of travel yet, but are planning to step outside what they ordinarily feel comfortable with – choosing to travel to a place that does not make them feel secure and in control
    30% of the respondents to Opodo’s poll see clear benefits in this type of travel, believing that this involves positive challenges.14% believe this will help them to learn another / different way of living and 14% believe they will learn about themselves during the tripADVERTISEMENT
    Within the UK it is interesting to note that Londoners are most likely to have travelled outside their comfort zones (36%) compared to just 16% of respondents from Yorkshire and the Humber
    Globally Spanish respondents are most keen to explore an out of comfort zone travel (37%) followed by 36% of Portuguese compared to just 29% Americans

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    Philadelphia is the 2023 Best City for Street Art

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    Philadelphia is the 2023 Best City for Street Art

    The city of Philadelphia has enjoyed yet another accolade having been named the 2023 Best City for Street Art by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.This designation recognizes that Philadelphia is home to thousands of vibrant outdoor murals, sculptures, statues, and public art pieces that are easily accessible for visitors and residents alike.
    Philadelphia is widely recognised as the ”Mural Capital of the World”  due to its vibrant and awe-inspiring public art scene. From towering masterpieces that adorn entire buildings to hidden gems tucked away in neighbourhood streets, Philadelphia’s mural art has become an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric, captivating residents and visitors alike.
    USA Today cited the work of Mural Arts Philadelphia for helping to cement Philadelphia’s global reputation for street art. Since its inception in 1984, Mural Arts Philadelphia has overseen the creation of 4,400 works of public art, working tirelessly to bring together artists, communities and organisations to create stunning murals that transform public spaces and inspire dialogue.
    Visitors are encouraged to explore the city’s street art on foot, by train, by trolley, bicycle or Segway, either guided by volunteers from Mural Arts Philadelphia or with the aid of a free smartphone app.
    Philadelphia’s street art also won international praise in Michelin’s new Philadelphia destination guide, released earlier in 2023. “Few North American cities have shown such consideration to art and urban planning,” the Michelin Green Guide states. “Philly is practically an open-air museum. Everywhere you look are statues, porticos, Greek Revival or neoclassical pediments, museums.”ADVERTISEMENTFor more information on Philadelphia’s street art visit Discover Philadelphia.

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    Serenity SPA Celebrates 7 Years and International Expansion

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