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    Expressions of Interest Now Open for Vivid Sydney 2024

    Following record-breaking attendance in 2023, Australia’s largest festival, Vivid Sydney, is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) for its 2024 event program.In 2023 Vivid Sydney attracted more than 3.28 million attendees who experienced the 300+ light, music, ideas and food events of the program. From today, artists, musicians, thought leaders and food creatives are invited to submit an EOI to be part of the 2024 program under the unified, creative vision – ‘Vivid Sydney, Humanity’.
    Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox said Vivid Sydney presented an extraordinary opportunity for those in the creative sector to showcase their talents to a large and far-reaching audience as part of an event that exemplifies Sydney’s standing as the major events capital of the Asia Pacific.
    “Vivid Sydney is a globally recognised event that brings together creativity, innovation and technology, through the lens of local and international talent in our spectacular Harbour City,” Mr Cox said.
    “This is a festival that could not be delivered in any other city in the world in the same way. The unique combination of place and creativity has established Vivid Sydney as an icon in its own right and is a great example of how arts, culture and creative industries can combine to forge unforgettable visitor experiences that attract people to the city time and again.
    “I strongly encourage all artists, musicians, thought leaders, and culinary creatives to express their interest to be part of Vivid Sydney 2024.”ADVERTISEMENTVivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini said the festival pushed the boundaries of artistic expression and captivated audiences with its vibrant displays, immersive performances, thought-provoking conversations, and culinary experiences.
    “In 2023, Vivid Sydney saw over 3.28 million people immerse themselves in the festival. The festival’s reach also extended far beyond, with more than 649 million people reached through #vividsydney on social media. This success underscores the incredible opportunity Vivid Sydney offers to showcase human creativity.
    “With the creative direction of ‘Humanity’ at the core, Vivid Sydney 2024 will explore what makes us human and how we can make a better world. We invite artists and visionaries from around the globe to join us in creating another incredible festival next year.
    Vivid Sydney 2024 will take place from 24 May to 15 June.
    Expressions of Interest (EOI) for Vivid Sydney 2024’s Light, Music, Ideas and Food pillars are now open. Light and Cross Art Form EOIs will close on 21 August 2023 with Ideas, Music and Food closing on 18 September 2023. The Vivid Sydney EOI outlines opportunities for artists, designers, creative industry professionals, equipment suppliers, architects, engineers, businesses, restaurants, event companies, chefs, producers and educational institutions to present their ideas, designs, concepts and interest for inclusion in the festival program.
    For more information and to submit an Expression Of Interest for Vivid Sydney 2024 go to vividsydney.com.

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    ISHRAQ HOSPITALITY EXPANDS ITS PORTFOLIO WITH NEW RESORT AND HOTEL APARTMENTS IN BATUMI, GEORGIA

    Ishraq Hospitality, the asset management and hospitality division of Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group, today announces the signing of a Hospitality Management Agreement (HMA) with Rekan Group, marking a significant milestone in their strategic expansion plans. The agreement entails the management of an exceptional Crowne Plaza Hotel in the vibrant city of Batumi, Georgia, further solidifying Ishraq Hospitality’s commitment to delivering unique experiences worldwide.
    The new property, located by the beach promenade in Batumi and offering great views of the waters, boasts 150 smartly appointed rooms, two restaurants, meeting facilities, a fitness club, and a pool, ensuring guests experience supreme comfort, convenience, and entertainment. In addition, Ishraq Hospitality will also oversee the hotel management of Batumi View Hotel Apartments, a 240-room hotel apartment. These developments are poised to enhance the hospitality landscape in Batumi and contribute to the city’s growing reputation as a tourist destination.
    Rekan Group, a renowned investment company in the region, brings invaluable expertise and a deep understanding of the Batumi market to the partnership. The collaboration between Ishraq Hospitality, IHG Hotels & Resorts – owner of the Crowne Plaza brand, and Rekan Group will lead to drive significant economic growth and provide new employment opportunities. A signing ceremony took place for these new properties at Crowne Plaza Jumeriah in Dubai on 20th July,2023 in the presence of chief guests and high profile deligations.

    Ahmed Ali Azeez Rekani, Co-Owner at Rekan Group said “We are delighted to join forces with Ishraq Hospitality and IHG Hotels & Resorts. This partnership represents a momentous step forward for our organization as we contribute to the development of Batumi’s hospitality sector. With Ishraq’s proven track record and our shared vision for excellence, we are confident that these new properties will become the preferred choice for both business and leisure travelers”.ADVERTISEMENTSherif Beshara, Group CEO at Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group said: “This collaboration marks a significant milestone for our organization and reflects our dedication to the growth and development of Batumi’s hospitality sector. With our shared vision for excellence and Ishraq Hospitality’s proven track record, we are confident that the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Batumi View Hotel Apartments will elevate the city’s overall accommodation offerings”.
    Richard Haddad, CEO at Ishraq Hospitality said “Georgia holds a pivotal position as a key market, with its remarkable growth in tourism. In 2022 alone, Georgia welcomed over 5.4 million tourists, showcasing its immense appeal as a captivating destination. The addition of the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Batumi View Hotel Apartments to our portfolio signifies our continued dedication to expanding our presence in strategic markets and offering world-class expertise. Furthermore, we are excited to contribute to Batumi’s growing reputation as a premier tourist destination and a new European capital hosting international events”.
    Willemijn Geels, VP of Development, Europe at IHG Hotels & Resorts said “The signing of Crowne Plaza Batumi Beach adds to IHG’s growing portfolio in Georgia, which includes a Crowne Plaza property in Borjomi and a Holiday Inn hotel in Tbilisi. We are delighted to partner with Ishraq Hospitality and Rekan Group on this new project for the first time. Together, we look forward to the hotel’s anticipated opening in 2025, as business and leisure travel to the area increases with visitors coming from across Europe and Asia to enjoy Batumi’s beaches and bustling city center.”

    Batumi plays host city this year to the World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony to be held on 9 September 2023 at the Gonio Fortress
    For more details click https://www.worldtravelawards.com/event/europe-2023

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    Four Seasons Partners with Shahid Khan to Build New Hotel and Private Residences in Florida

    Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the world’s leading luxury hospitality company, together with Shahid Khan through Iguana Investments Florida LLC (Iguana Investments), today announced plans for a new Hotel and Private Residences in Jacksonville, Florida.
    Anticipated to open in 2026, Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Jacksonville will play an integral role in the development of the Jacksonville Shipyards while ushering in a thrilling and historic next chapter for Downtown Jacksonville.
    Blending imaginative urban design on the banks of the St. Johns River, Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Jacksonville will be the centerpiece of the Jacksonville Shipyards, ideally located adjacent to the Sports Complex and proposed Stadium of the Future – a renovated and reimagined EverBank Stadium that will serve as home to the Jacksonville Jaguars while playing host to national and international sports and entertainment events for generations to come.
    “Four Seasons is incredibly proud to bring our renowned service and hospitality offering to one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States,” says Bart Carnahan, Executive Vice President, Global Business Development and Portfolio Management, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “As Jacksonville continues to enhance its offerings for people to live, work and play, we look forward to working with Mr. Khan to expand our presence in Florida and extend our long-time partnership together, contributing to the city’s bright future and achieving our shared vision of building communities and creating exceptional luxury experiences.”
    About Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences JacksonvilleADVERTISEMENTFour Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Jacksonville will offer 170 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, 26 Private Residences, and four dining and lounge outlets including a signature rooftop restaurant and bar, all-day restaurant, pool bar and grill, and lobby bar – all of which will be enjoyed by travellers and locals alike.
    Serviced by the renowned quality and genuine care for which Four Seasons is known, the Hotel will also feature a world-class spa, multiple outdoor pools with cabana service, a well-appointed gym; expansive meeting and event space; and the widely celebrated Kids For All Seasons Program with activities dedicated to younger guests. Guests, residents, and locals will also have access to a redeveloped marina offering unique experiences along the St. Johns River.
    Setting the stage for a new standout luxury destination in Jacksonville, the initial conceptual design for the project was created by Pininfarina America. HKS is the lead design architect, partnering with ODA Architecture for interior design and EDSA for landscape design, creating a modern yet timeless atmosphere. HKS has worked on Four Seasons projects in The Bahamas, Hawaii, Orlando, Denver and more.
    Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Jacksonville will be joining an exceptional collection of properties in the Sunshine State that currently includes Orlando, Palm Beach, Surfside, Miami and Fort Lauderdale as well as an upcoming resort in Naples.
    The property will be the second Four Seasons property for Khan, the owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League. In September 2016, Khan purchased full ownership of Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, regarded as the flagship property for the Toronto-based Four Seasons brand and universally heralded as one of the premier destinations in the luxury hotel segment anywhere in the world. The property, located in the fashionable Yorkville neighbourhood, is managed by Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
    About the Jacksonville Shipyards Development
    In addition to Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Jacksonville, Phase One of the Jacksonville Shipyards will comprise a six-storey office building, a revamped full-service marina, a reinvigorated Metropolitan Park, a marina services building and a public park.
    The project will feature ample park space and walking paths connecting to the riverwalk, which will span from Downtown Jacksonville to Metropolitan Park. Meanwhile, the Jacksonville Jaguars’ business staff will move into the adjacent office building.
    Phase Two of the Jacksonville Shipyards will include a five-acre (two-hectare) property slated for mixed-use development. Initial plans include a medical component, which will add to the region’s thriving medical industry. Other potential uses include retail, residential, additional parking and green space. Khan has been singularly focused in recent years on making this vision a reality to create hundreds of new jobs, generate vital tourism revenue, attract residents and spark additional opportunities for emerging local businesses – all with Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Jacksonville at center stage in Downtown Jacksonville.
    “I have immense love and respect for Jacksonville and Four Seasons alike,” Khan says. “So, for me, it’s always been about connecting the two, because they have so much to offer each other.”
    “Four Seasons is an iconic brand that will redefine Downtown Jacksonville and provide a luxury destination that we have been unable to offer until now. Jacksonville, in turn, will offer the new Four Seasons Hotel a spectacular setting on the banks of the St. Johns River and provide our entire community a reason to rally around the Shipyards, the Stadium of the Future and the overall future of Downtown Jacksonville. I’ve said all along that Four Seasons will be a game-changer for Jacksonville, and the change begins now.”

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    ENNISMORE SIGNS ITS FIRST LIFESTYLE HOTEL IN TURKEY WITH HYDE BODRUM

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    Wego and IHG Hotels & Resorts Ink Global Partnership

    Wego, the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), inked a global partnership with IHG Hotel & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies to provide its users with a wider array of hotel offerings across the globe.
    Through this collaboration, Wego users will be able to search and book 15 of IHG’s 18 brands – worldwide – Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo, voco hotels, HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, EVEN Hotels, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, avid hotels, Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites. Travellers will get access to over 4,000 open hotels across global destinations and ultimately find the perfect hotel stay that matches their requirements anywhere in the world.
    IHG’s latest offering will be promoted across all Wego’s channels, providing travellers with information on the latest properties and trendy destinations.
    Commenting on this strategic partnership, Craig Hewett, Chief Hotels Officer and Co-Founder, Wego, said: “Partnering with one of the world’s leading hotel companies, IHG Hotels & Resorts, reflects our commitment to provide our users with global hotel offerings and deals. Through this partnership, we will promote IHG Hotels & Resorts to our large user base in the MENA region and aim to convert more bookings to IHG’s global network of hotels.”
    James Britchford, Vice President Commercial, India, Middle East and Africa at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are delighted to partner with Wego, the number one travel app in MENA for flight search and booking. Through this partnership, travellers will enjoy more convenience and access to 15 of our brands across our luxury and lifestyle, premium, essentials and suites portfolio in global destinations when booking their trip on Wego.”ADVERTISEMENTWego compares a range of accommodation options available in the marketplace, to offer competitive rates from local and global travel agencies, hotel direct websites and other accommodation merchants.
    With new partners on board, Wego strives to provide its customers with a comprehensive selection of hotel options, enabling users to search and book directly through its website and app.

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    Maldives Launches Joint Marketing Campaign with TravelBag to Showcase the Ultimate Destination

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    Maldives Launches Joint Marketing Campaign with TravelBag to Showcase the Ultimate Destination

    Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives)  is excited to announce a joint marketing campaign with TravelBag (DNATA UK), one of the world’s leading air and travel service providers.
    This strategic collaboration aims to promote the Maldives as the ultimate holiday destination, targeting B2C audiences in the United Kingdom.
    Running from May 2023 to April 2024, the joint marketing campaign will leverage online, social media, and print channels to reach over 2.5 million individuals. The Maldives is a well-known destination for tourists from the UK. Accordingly, the overall aim of the campaign is to reach a large audience, inspire them to choose the Maldives over destinations, and maintain the Maldives as a key holiday destination for the UK market.
    TravelBag has over 40+ years of experience and a reputation for creating tailor-made holidays for every budget. TravelBag’s retail shops, staffed by dedicated travel specialists with global experience, cater to a discerning audience, 95% of whom prefer offline bookings via retail stores and call centres.
    In 2022, TravelBag was one of the top sellers for the destination. Building on this success, the joint marketing campaign aims to drive incremental growth in bookings and revenue for the Maldives. This campaign will focus on advertising and promoting individual products and unique experiences, aligning with the UK market strategies. It will highlight the diverse offerings of the Maldives, including luxury resorts, liveaboards, diving, family holidays, and experiences related to nature, conservation, and the pristine Maldivian environment. Ultimately, the campaign aims to show the Maldives as the most ideal holiday destination owing to these diverse products, experiences and segments.ADVERTISEMENTAs the third-highest arrival market to the Maldives, the UK has recorded consistent growth, even during challenging times. In 2022, the UK market witnessed a remarkable 185.6% increase in arrivals, reaching a total of 179,309. This growth trend underscores the significance of the UK market to the Maldives tourism industry.

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    The First Digital Nomad Conference in Ireland

    NomadÉire is excited to announce the launch of the first Irish Digital Nomad Conference in Tralee, set to take place at the end of August.
    This ground-breaking event not only celebrates the digital nomad lifestyle but also highlights Ireland’s potential as a thriving hub for remote work. With a special focus on rural development and sustainability, NomadÉire aims to position Ireland as an attractive destination for digital nomads seeking a unique blend of professional growth and a sustainable lifestyle.
    As digital nomadism continues to gain popularity, Ireland stands out as an ideal location due to its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local communities. Tralee, situated on Ireland’s west coast, offers the perfect setting for the conference, with its breath-taking scenery, friendly atmosphere, and access to amenities that cater to digital nomads.
    At the core of NomadÉire’s mission is the promotion of rural development and sustainability. Ireland’s rural areas possess untapped potential, offering a refreshing change of scenery from bustling urban environments. By showcasing the opportunities available in rural Ireland, NomadÉire aims to bridge the gap between digital nomads and local communities, fostering mutual growth and development.
    The Digital Nomad Conference will feature a line-up of renowned speakers, industry experts, and successful entrepreneurs who will share their insights and experiences in the realm of remote work. Participants will gain valuable knowledge, practical skills, and inspiration to thrive as digital nomads while contributing to the local economy and community development.ADVERTISEMENTIn line with NomadÉire’s commitment to sustainability, the conference will highlight eco-friendly practices and encourage attendees to adopt sustainable habits in their digital nomad journeys. From reducing carbon footprints to supporting local businesses, the conference aims to promote responsible and mindful living while embracing the freedom of remote work.
    “We are delighted to launch the first Digital Nomad Conference in Tralee, emphasizing Ireland’s potential as a digital nomad hub,” said Danijela Maletić, Founder at Nomad Hub Ireland. “Our focus on rural development and sustainability reflects our belief in the transformative power of remote work and its positive impact on local communities. We invite digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and remote workers from Ireland and beyond to join us in this remarkable event and explore the opportunities that rural Ireland offers.”
    NomadÉire invites members of the media to discover and share the compelling stories of digital nomads, the benefits of remote work, and the sustainable rural development movement. Journalists, bloggers, and influencers are encouraged to attend the conference and showcase the dynamic landscape of remote work in Ireland. Please contact us in advance to register for your full-access media pass on [email protected].
    For press inquiries, interview requests, or media passes, please contact: Danijela Maletić, Founder, Nomad Hub.
    For more information about the NomadÉire Digital Nomad Conference, please visit the conference website: https://www.nomadeire.com/digitalnomadconference/

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    Explore Geneva’s Rich History and Undiscovered Viniculture

    This summer, discover Geneva’s rich history and dynamic homegrown wine offering with Geneva Tourism’s latest ‘Heritage and Wine’ package. Designed to strike the balance between wine tasting and exploring the city’s rich cultural history, the package combines interactive fun, and multi-sensory elements, to engage both wine lovers and culture vultures alike!
    A leader in homegrown viniculture, Geneva is home to many exquisite vineyards which are all set against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Providing the perfect introduction to the world of oenology, Geneva Tourism’s ‘Heritage and Wine’ package includes four tastings of four different local grape varieties from across some of the city’s leading vineyards.
    With a guided tour through Geneva’s old town, visitors can dive deeper into Geneva’s rich history throughout the Protestant Reformation period – which can be traced back to the 16th century – while discovering a number of key cultural landmarks throughout the city.
    Available to purchase from £390pp, on the Geneva Tourism website, the ‘Heritage and Wine’ tour lasts 2.5hours and is perfect for those looking for a unique way to explore Europe’s leading city break destination.
    The Heritage and Wine package can be reserved by visiting: https://www.geneve.com/en/attractions/guided-tour-heritage-and-wine-in-geneva#/ADVERTISEMENT

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    TUI RIVER CRUISES LAUNCHES NILE CRUISE WITH FOURTH SHIP, TUI AL HOREYA

    TUI River Cruises has announced a brand-new River Nile cruise set to commence in Winter 2024 with exclusive TUI charter flights to Luxor from London Gatwick and Manchester Airports.The exciting expansion means that the river cruise line will add a fully refurbished five-star ship, to be named TUI Al Horeya, which means ‘freedom’, to operate seven-night, all-inclusive round-trip sailings from Luxor. TUI Al Horeya can accommodate 145 passengers and offers 74 cabins including singles, standard cabins and suites.
    Two flights per week will operate from London Gatwick and Manchester to Luxor; a city which encompasses a mesmerizing blend of history, architecture, and culture. The new routes is exclusive to TUI, which will be the only tour operator to offer direct, non-stop flights from the UK to Luxor which will operate weekly on a Thursday from 7th November 2024 until 24th April 2025.

    Chris Hackney, managing director of TUI River Cruises said: “TUI River Cruises is going from strength to strength, and we are so excited to introduce this latest offering on the Nile which we are confident our customers will love.
    ADVERTISEMENT“A cruise along the Nile offers a serene and unforgettable experience with lush landscapes, traditional villages, and other iconic landmarks such as the Luxor and Edfu Temples. With year-round sunshine, Egypt is the perfect destination for exploring ancient history and allowing guests to immerse themselves in a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

    He continued, “The name TUI Al Horeya was chosen to ensure we kept local connection to Egypt, as it is our only TUI River Cruise ship which will stay in the one country. TUI Al Horeya in Arabic means ‘freedom’, signifying the freedom the water brings to explore which is a great representation of what river cruising is all about.”

    Dedicated licenced Egyptologists will be on hand throughout the trip to enhance the customer experience to be on hand to answer any questions. The modern and contemporary ship will boasts a top deck swimming pool, two whirlpools, an entertainment area, restaurant, Al Fresco dining, lounge bar, wellness studio and a boutique shop.

    Like the rest of the fleet, TUI Al Horeya will include a day and night entertainment programme, as well as offering customers a wide range of excursions which have been curated by industry experts, guaranteed to transport visitors back in time to the era of pharaohs and dynasties.

    There will be two set excursions included within the sailing package price, this includes the Temple of Horus in Edfu and the temple of Kom Ombo. To ensure that customers have as much flexibility within their cruise, a range of excursions will be on offer in Luxor and Awan for them to choose from. Options include:

    Discovering the Temples of Karnak and Luxor with the Sphinx Avenue, a strikingly graceful piece or architecture on the banks of the Nile;Experiencing a sound and light show at Karnak Temple, which recounts the history of Thebes and the lives of pharaohs;Visiting the Nubian Village, located on an Island, and sail on a traditional felucca, a canvas-sailed boat;Touring the High Dam, Obellsk and Phllae Temple, which was built in 1960
    TUI Al Horeya is the latest addition to the TUI River Cruise fleet, which currently has three adult only ships. The announcement of this new destination comes on the back of strong demand from customers, with bookings increasing by 40 per cent compared to last year. To meet demand for Winter 2024, all three European ships will be going on sale for festive sailings and will include two new seven-night itineraries over New Year’s Eve; the ‘New Year Sail Away’ itinerary on-board TUI Isla, with New Year’s Eve spent in Cologne and ‘Sail into the New Year’ itinerary on TUI Maya, with new year’s celebrations in Frankfurt. This is in addition to the existing ‘New Year on The Rhine’ itinerary on Skyla.

    The first Legends of the Nile itinerary will set sail on the 7th November 2024:
    Day 1: Luxor
    Day 2: Luxor
    Day 3: Edfu
    Day 4: Kom Ombo
    Day 5: Aswan
    Day 6: Aswan
    Day 7: Luxor
    Day 8: Luxor

    Available from £1399 based on two adults sharing a Deck 2 Superior French Balcony cabin on an All-Inclusive basis. Price includes flights from London Gatwick airport on the 5th December 2024, and transfers. To find out more about this holiday or to book go to tui.co.uk/river-cruises, visit your local TUI holiday store or download our app.

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