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    WTTC reveals Germany’s Travel & Tourism sector’s climate footprint

    The World Travel & Tourism Council ( WTTC ) and the Saudi-based Sustainable Tourism Global Center have unveiled groundbreaking new data detailing the climate footprint of the Travel & Tourism sector in Germany.
    In one of the largest research projects of its kind, WTTC can for the first time ever, accurately report and track the impact the sector has on the environment.
    According to this groundbreaking new data, Germany is one of just a few major countries where Travel & Tourism has continued to grow, while reducing its absolute emissions.
    In 2019, the sector was responsible for 10.3% of total greenhouse gas emissions across Germany.
    This dropped more than four percentage points, to reach 5.9% in 2020 and 5.8% in 2021, mainly due to the reduced activity in the sector during the pandemic period.ADVERTISEMENTBetween 2010 and 2019, Germany’s Travel & Tourism sector decoupled its greenhouse gas emissions from its growth.
    During this period, greenhouse gas emissions decreased on average by 1.1% per year, while Travel & Tourism’s total contribution to Germany’s economy grew 1.5% on average annually.
    The figures also show that the sector’s emissions intensity continues to decrease.In 2010, for every €1 generated by Travel & Tourism in Germany, the sector emitted 0.55 kg of greenhouse gas emissions.
    In 2019, when Travel & Tourism was at its peak, this figure dropped by 22% to 0.43 kg per €1 created, and continued to fall in the following years, to a low of 0.36 kg per €1 in 2021. This significant
    decline illustrates the impact of changes implemented by the German government and business leaders to create a more sustainable sector.
    Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Our data shows that Germany is one of the few Travel & Tourism powerhouses which is decreasing its absolute emissions while continuing to grow year-on-year.
    “The Travel & Tourism sector has decoupled its economic growth from its greenhouse gas emissions and continues to reduce its emissions intensity, but we know there is still work to be done. To reach our goals and ambitions, we must make bigger and bolder steps to reduce our absolute emissions.
    “We need government support in accelerating the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuels which will have a significant impact on our footprint, as well as bringing in more renewable energy to our national grids.”
    Energy Usage
    The global tourism body also provides insights on the sector’s energy usage and efficiency, and shows that between 2010 and 2019, the sector’s total energy usage increased by only 0.2% annually.
    This demonstrates that while Travel & Tourism continued to grow, it also became more energy efficient.
    Between 2019 and 2021, the sector has reduced its energy intensity by 18.3%, highlighting the strides made by Travel & Tourism to slash energy usage.
    This comprehensive research covers 185 countries across all regions and will be updated each year with the latest figures.
    This research was made possible thanks to the partnership between WTTC and the Saudi-based Sustainable Tourism Global Center. Under the Saudi green Initiative, more than 60 initiatives have been launched in the past year, representing more than $186BN USD of investment in the green economy.

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    ALULA TO HOST INAUGURAL GATHERING OF BEST TOURISM VILLAGES BY UNWTO More

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    ALULA TO HOST INAUGURAL GATHERING OF BEST TOURISM VILLAGES BY UNWTO

    AlUla, the ancient crossroads of civilisations in north-west Arabia that is now emerging as a global destination for cultural and natural heritage, will be the site of the first-ever in-person meeting of representatives of the Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO.The villages, including AlUla Old Town District were recognised in December as part of UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages (BTV) initiative, “recognises villages that are an outstanding example of a rural tourism destination with accredited cultural and natural assets, that preserve and promote rural and community-based values, products, and lifestyle and have a clear commitment to innovation and sustainability in all its aspects – economic, social, and environmental.”
    UNWTO have organised the first iteration of the Best Tourism Villages Award Ceremony and meeting of the BTV Network in AlUla on March 12-13. The event will be a forum for knowledge-sharing on topics such as best practices, community empowerment, and public-private partnerships. It will also review the programme’s 2022 activities and 2023 work plan.
    Delegates originating from Switzerland to Vietnam will gather at AlUla’s Maraya multi-purpose venue, which holds the Guinness record as the world’s largest mirror-clad building, with mirrors covering its 9,740 sqm surface. The UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, is expected to attend.
    The BTV programme aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to triple tourism’s share of the national economy to 10%. In 2019 Saudi Arabia introduced eVisas for citizens of 49 countries, and this February the Kingdom introduced a 96-hour stopover visa.
    ADVERTISEMENTFor the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) the gathering affirms AlUla’s legacy as a cultural crossroads. A place of collaboration and cultural exchange for a millennia, there is a natural synergy between the destination and the UNWTO’s BTV programme. The inclusion of AlUla on the 2022 list is an accolade in support of RCU’s careful regeneration, cultural rejuvenation, and curated redevelopment of heritage destinations. RCU is honoured not only by AlUla’s inclusion as a BTV but by its selection as host of this inaugural BTV global gathering.
    HE Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, said: “The Ministry is proud to partner with UNWTO to host the Best Tourism Villages 2022 Awards Ceremony and jointly convene the first meeting of the BTV Network in the historic destination of AlUla, one of the villages across the globe recognised for its innovative approach to transforming the tourism sector.”
    Mr. Pololikashvili, Secretary-General, UNWTO, said: “For rural communities everywhere, tourism can be a true gamechanger in providing jobs, supporting local businesses and keeping traditions alive. The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO showcase the power of the sector to drive economic diversification and create opportunities for all outside of big cities.”
    Eng. Amr AlMadani, CEO of RCU, said: “This gathering of the world’s best tourism villages serves several purposes for RCU: it allows us to share insights with destinations that share our commitment to sustainable regeneration, it showcases Maraya as a leading venue for conferences. It also provides our guests with the opportunity to visit AlUla, including the remarkable site of Hegra, which in 2008 was inscribed as Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.”
    The complete list of Best Tourism Villages 2022 can be read here: www.unwto.org/news/best-tourism-villages-of-2022-named-by-unwto
    Tune into the event through the official livestream here: https://youtube.com/live/32ecVh7kzkE

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    Brussels Airport honours airlines and partners at annual Aviation Awards for 2022 excellence

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    Brussels Airport honours airlines and partners at annual Aviation Awards for 2022 excellence

    Last week and according to annual tradition the Brussels Airport Aviation Awards were presented. With these awards, Brussels Airport wanted to honour airlines and partners who in 2022 have excelled in the area of punctuality and performance, network development and safety and environment. 11 awards were presented during a live partner event.Brussels Airport has been organising the Aviation Awards since 2007, in order to reward the airlines and partners for an exceptional performance. This year, awards were presented in 11 different categories.
    Performance and Punctuality Awards
    The Performance and Punctuality Awards are presented to passenger and cargo airlines that excel in punctuality and performance. Punctuality is the best on-time performance, that is with an arrival or departure within 15 minutes of the scheduled time.  The performance for cargo is calculated using the number of weekly flights, number of destinations, total quantity of cargo flown, cargo per flight and the growth in cargo tonnage.
    1. Cargo Airline Performance Award: Ethiopian Airlines
    The airline that contributed most last year to the development of Brucargo was Ethiopian Airlines. The airline currently operates 7 weekly scheduled flights between Brussels and Addis Ababa and achieved a strong traffic growth in 2022 of 8%. The other nominees were Air Belgium, Qatar Airways, Sichuan Airlines and Singapore Airlines.ADVERTISEMENT2. Short Haul Airline Punctuality Award: Air Europa
    The Punctuality Awards are for the airlines with the best on-time performance. In 2022, Air Europa was the most punctual airline. They operate two daily flights to Madrid and previously won this category in 2013. Air Europa performed just slightly better than the other airlines nominated in this category: Finnair, airBaltic, KLM and ITA Airways.
    3. Long Haul Airline Punctuality Award: Qatar Airways
    This year, the Punctuality Award for long haul airline goes to Qatar Airways. They fly daily to Doha and also won this award in 2016. The other nominees in this category were Air Belgium, Emirates, United Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines.
    Cargo Awards
    There are two awards specifically for cargo stakeholders and partners at Brussels Airport for innovation, growth and partnership.
    4. Brucargo Award: Aviapartner Cargo
    The Brucargo Award was introduced in 2012 to shine the spotlight on our partners at Brucargo. This year, this award goes to Aviapartner Cargo, for their strong contribution to the Brucargo community and considerable efforts for Air Cargo Belgium.  The other nominees in this category were Air Cargo Belgium, ACIC Operator, dnata, and Hongyuan Group.
    5. Logistic Provider Award: Expeditors
    Expeditors are constantly raising the bar for pharma transport, with their expertise they are the logical choice for the pharma industry, and they are the largest user of the Airside Pharma Transporters. The other nominees in this category alongside Expeditors were Herfurth Logistics, Kuehne & Nagel, Hongyuan Group and Ziegler.
    Environment and Safety Awards
    The Environment and Safety Awards are presented to airlines or partners that have made a special contribution to the environment and the on-going improvement of safety standards and awareness.
    6. Environment Award: Safran Aircraft Engine Services Belgium
    The Environment Award went to Safran Aircraft Engine Services Belgium. This company is investing in a new building Brussels Airport and it will embed itself here in a sustainable manner. The new building will be equipped with many sustainable techniques such as fossil-free heating through heat pumps, solar panels, thorough insulation and therefore a very low EPC value, rainwater buffering and infiltration, and green roofs. On a day to day basis this company reduces its environmental impact by a zero-waste system of surface treatment of metals, heat recovery, and company fleet electrification.
    7. Safety Award: Brussels Airlines Maintenance
    Brussels Airlines Maintenance receives the Safety Award for its collaborative and effective safety audit, ultramodern and digitised support systems.
    Network Development Awards
    The Network Development Awards go to airlines that start new routes or have achieved a significant growth in passengers or cargo volumes.
    8. Cargo Airline Award: Air Belgium
    The award for Cargo Airline 2022 goes to Air Belgium, for starting up their full-cargo activities with ultramodern B747-8 and A330 aircraft, which strengthen the growth at Brussels Airport thanks to the successful partnership with Hongyuan Group. The other nominees were Ethiopian Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways.
    9. Short Haul Airline Network Development Award: Transavia
    Transavia, which started up its base in Brussels last year expanding its presence in the Benelux, receives this year’s Short Haul Award. The other nominees were Corendon, FlyOne, PLAY and SunExpress.
    10. Long Haul Airline Network Development Award: United Airlines
    United Airlines can take home this award thanks to the complete recovery of their traffic and the enormous growth of their three-city network in the United States; they are the largest non-Belgian long haul airline at Brussels Airport. The other nominees in this category were Air Belgium, Hainan Airlines, Brussels Airlines and Air Canada.
    11. Diamond Award
    This year, we are also presenting a Diamond Award. This Award is not presented each year, but only to highlight an exceptional performance of an organisation or individual. This year, the Diamond Award goes to the staff of TUI fly. A highly motivated airline team that mobilises all departments to meet the operational challenges that can arise at its domestic airport, whether it be organising transfers or handling baggage. The passengers are at the centre of the staff’s priorities and they do everything possible to offer them a holiday in the best possible conditions.Brussels Airport congratulates all winners and nominees for their great performances.

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    Southwest Airlines expands international options with new routes from Kansas City and Long Beach

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    British Airways and American Airlines Unveil Bridge Bar at JFK Airport Terminal 8

    British Airways and American Airlines are further enhancing the newly renovated Terminal 8 at JFK airport with the unveiling of the first of its kind, Bridge Bar.  Featuring a variety of non-alcoholic and spirited cocktails, including Aviation American Gin and Betty Buzz, the premium bar will be part of the Greenwich LoungeTM experience, within the joint premium Lounges offered by the two airline partners.
    The new Bridge Bar is designed to celebrate the love of flying and offers customers a place to relax pre-flight, while enjoying delicious cocktails and mocktails. The cocktail menu features a variety of alcohol and non-alcoholic cocktails, including Aviation American Gin which infuses a blend of botanicals and is fronted by actor Ryan Reynolds; and Betty Buzz, a range of non-alcoholic sparkling mixers founded by actress Blake Lively.
    Betty Buzz prides itself on using clean ingredients like real juice and no artificial flavours, colours or sweeteners. Menu creations include drinks featuring one of five Betty Buzz flavors such as the tasty ‘Blushing Betty’ and the sparkling ‘Adventure Awaits’. Customers can also enjoy a range of non-alcoholic or spirited Aviation American Gin cocktail creations at their leisure.
    Betty Buzz Founder Blake Lively said: “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the entire British Airways and American Airlines crew, as we celebrate the opening of this beautiful new lounge.”
    Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, said: “Following our recent investment in our new JFK lounges – Chelsea and Soho – we are excited to unveil a new experience in the Greenwich LoungeTM. With Betty Buzz and Aviation American Gin, we have created the perfect space for customers to relax pre-flight, offering a varied and delicious cocktail selection and flavours to suit every taste.”ADVERTISEMENTThe guest journey through the Greenwich LoungeTM experience culminates in the Bridge Bar’s open space that transports select customers to the Golden Age of Travel. The space has been created to offer a rich and sophisticated take on mid-century modern design with a classic 1960’s feel.
    “We understand travelers are looking for a customized travel experience that starts on the ground and our joint premium lounges with British Airways give our customers the opportunity to do so,” said Kim Cisek, Vice President of Customer Experience at American Airlines. “The opening of the Bridge Bar and Tasting Room is the latest piece of our premium lounge experience at JFK.”
    The Greenwich LoungeTM experience is part of the American Airlines and British Airways joint premium Lounges at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, Terminal 8. The lounge now also features the new Tasting Room, formerly known as the Flagship® First Dining space.  It features a soft refresh featuring a high-end tap room, making visitors feel like they are inside a beer tavern. Brooklyn Brewery, the Brooklyn-based leading global independent craft brewer and a pioneer of the American craft beer revolution is the first brand featured in the space. Customers can relax and sip on an array of Brooklyn Brewery products, including beers on draft, and beer flights ahead of their travels. A lighter fare menu is also available to enjoy with their beer pairings including Beer Braised Bratwurst, French Onion Grilled Cheese, and a Beer Float dessert.The Greenwich LoungeTM experience is accessible to British Airways Club customers, American Airlines customers traveling on Flagship® Business and AAdvantage® members with AAdvantage Platinum® status who are traveling on Flagship® Long Haul International itineraries, and oneworld Sapphire and oneworld Business Class customers.

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    Spirit Airlines Launches Daily Flights from Norfolk International Airport to Top Florida Destination

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    Qatar Airways marked International Women’s Day with first all-female freighter flight More

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    easyJet offers millions of winter 2024 seats with flights to 125 destinations now on sale

    easyJet, Europe’s leading airline, has put its winter 2024 schedule on sale meaning millions of seats across 138,000 easyJet flights between 1 December 2023 and 23 March 2024 including over 70,000 flights to and from the UK, are now available so customers have the opportunity to book early and get the best fares for next winter.
    With flights to 125 destinations to choose from across Europe, North Africa and the Middle East from 21 UK airports, customers have an unrivalled choice when looking to book their next winter getaway, whether its enjoying Christmas markets, hitting the slopes, or chasing the winter sun.
    Flights for next winter are now available to book at easyJet.com and via the mobile app, including:
    London Gatwick to Innsbruck from £32.99* and to Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura from £38.998London Luton to Geneva and Innsbruck from £32.99*Bristol to Geneva and Innsbruck from £26.99* and to Gran Canaria from £35.99*Manchester to Geneva from £29.99* and to Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura from £35.99*Liverpool to Geneva from £26.99* and to Lanzarote from £29.99*Belfast to Geneva from £26.99*, and to Tenerife and Lanzarote from £32.99*
    Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, commented:ADVERTISEMENT“We’re delighted to be putting our flights for winter 2024 on sale today so customers can book early and enjoy great value fares on flights across our unrivalled network across Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, providing even more choice to book a festive Christmas trip, a ski getaway or winter sun break. With fares available from just £26.99* and with a host of destinations to choose from like Innsbruck, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote, now is a great time to book with easyJet and we look forward to taking even more of our customers away in 2024.”
    Today also sees thousands more package holidays for winter 2024 available to book through easyJet holidays. Whilst the tour operator previously had exclusive early access to winter 2024 flights, the release means even more destinations and flight options will be available for holidaymakers heading to Europe’s best loved beach and city destinations. These include the package holiday provider’s bestselling winter destinations, which customers can’t get enough of, including Iceland, Lanzarote and Disneyland Paris.
    All easyJet holidays packages are covered by its industry-leading Protection Promise. On top of that, there’s 23kg of luggage per person on all holidays and transfers included on all beach holidays.
    Book a winter 2024 beach holiday or city break with easyJet holidays (www.easyjet.com/en/holidays tel: 0330 365 5005):
    easyJet holidays offers seven nights at 4* Xperience St.George Homestay in Sharm el Sheikh on an All Inclusive basis for £528 per person including 23kg of luggage per person, transfers and flights from Bristol on 6 December 2023.easyJet holidays offers seven nights at 4* Puerto Palace in Tenerife on a Half Board basis for £460 per person including 23kg of luggage per person, transfers and flights from Belfast on 20 March 2024.easyJet holidays offers seven nights at 5* Kenzi Club Agdal Medina in Marrakech an All Inclusive basis for £456 per person including 23kg of luggage per person, transfers and flights from London Luton on 7 December 2023.easyJet holidays offers three nights at 4* Best Western Plus Amstelveen in Amsterdam on a Bed & Breakfast basis for £252 per person including 23kg of luggage per person and flights from Liverpool on 4 December 2023.easyJet holidays offers three nights at 5* Eurostars Torre Sevilla in Seville on a Bed & Breakfast basis for £351 per person including 23kg of luggage per person and flights from London Gatwick on 10 December 2023.
    Holidaymakers looking for inspiration can use easyJet’s Low Fare Finder on easyJet.com to search for the lowest fares on easyJet’s entire network, all in one place, allowing them to plan their next holiday at a bargain price.
    easyJet serves 21 UK airports, offering 482 routes to 125 destinations from the UK across Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. To discover more about easyJet’s UK network and to book, visit easyJet.com
    To book or discover more about easyJet’s UK network, visit easyJet.com.

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    New Disney Cruise Line Island Destination at Lighthouse Point in The Bahamas to Welcome Guests

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    New Disney Cruise Line Island Destination at Lighthouse Point in The Bahamas to Welcome Guests

    In summer 2024, Disney Cruise Line will welcome guests to a one-of-a-kind island destination at Lighthouse Point, located on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, for the first time.Created in close collaboration with local artists and advisors, the vibrant island retreat will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.
    “At Disney Cruise Line, we have a deep appreciation for the Bahamian community,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “We are connected in many ways, including our shared values of storytelling and hospitality. With the opening of Lighthouse Point, visitors from around the world will experience the magic of The Bahamas in a new way, one that truly celebrates its natural and cultural beauty.”
    New details about Lighthouse Point reveal a relaxing beach escape designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.
    Uniquely Designed, Sustainably Developed
    When guests arrive to Lighthouse Point, they’ll be greeted by distinctive, sweeping architecture in bright, saturated hues — a bold style inspired by nature and created in partnership with local artists.ADVERTISEMENTThe curvilinear buildings will at first appear as Bahamian shells scattered along the shoreline. Upon closer inspection, guests will discover artistic expressions of the native flora and fauna of The Bahamas and the pageantry and history of Junkanoo parades. Throughout the destination, references to playful folklore characters will evoke the warmth and charm of the local culture.
    Respect for the environment is at the heart of the design. At least 90 percent of the destination’s electricity needs will be met by an onsite solar array, the pier was designed to avoid the need for dredging and elevated walkways will help limit impact on the landscape.
    “Lighthouse Point is a place of extraordinary natural beauty, so our goal has always been to create designs that accentuate its qualities in an organic way,” said Kevin Thomas, creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering. “We’re focused on low-density, sustainable development that protects and preserves the environment, allowing the site’s biodiversity to shine.”
    Fun and Relaxation for Everyone
    At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures and discover the magic of Bahamian storytelling alongside favorite Disney characters. Much like Disney’s cruise ships and private island of Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will offer activities and areas for every age group.
    Families can relax and play along white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at the expansive family beach on the east side of the island, which will be centrally located near market-style dining, recreation and other amenities.A Bahamian art and culture pavilion featuring special programs and local artists will provide visitors to Lighthouse Point opportunities to learn and celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of The Bahamas.A brightly-colored, interactive family water play area will include two slides, water drums, fountains and more, along with a dedicated space for toddlers.Additional recreational activities will be available for kids and kids-at-heart, including a covered gaming pavilion; a volleyball court and gaga ball pit; watercraft and bicycle rentals; nature trails for hiking and biking; and more.North of the family area will be an adult-exclusive beach — a glorious stretch of sun-drenched serenity complete with a dedicated dining area for convenient access to food and drinks throughout the day, plus six private cabanas available by reservation.Children ages 3 to 12 will splash and play at a themed kids’ club under the care of highly-trained Disney Cruise Line counselors. It will include a splash pad inspired by favorite undersea creatures from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Little Mermaid,” plenty of shade and a dedicated dining area.Set away from the activity of the main family area, a peaceful beach along the south-western shore will be lined with 20 premium family cabanas available to rent, including four double cabanas that accommodate larger groups and offer massage services.Visitors to Lighthouse Point will have the opportunity to be surrounded by the wonders of nature and get a glimpse into the efforts taking place to conserve wildlife and their unique island habitats.A collection of new Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera.Disney’s new island destination is being thoughtfully designed to provide a hassle-free experience for families, including complimentary beach essentials (towels, chairs and umbrellas and lunch) and convenient tram transportation.
    Lighthouse Point will open for guests on select sailings in summer 2024. Details on inaugural itineraries and additional information about signature entertainment, dining, retail and excursions will be released at a later date.
    To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent.

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    The World’s Biggest Bounce Park® is Coming to Arcadia, California More

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    The World’s Biggest Bounce Park® is Coming to Arcadia, California

    FUNBOX® is bringing the ultimate adventure to Arcadia, CA, with the World’s Biggest Bounce Park® opening its doors on Friday March 10th at The Shops at Santa Anita. FUNBOX® is a 25,000-sq.-ft., inflatable playground that is filled with 10 play zones, including Tumble Temple, Marshmallow Mountain, Gumball’s Gallop, and an obstacle course.The World’s Biggest Bounce Park® is only in Arcadia for 12 weeks.
    FUNBOX® is committed to giving back to the community; this time, FUNBOX® is supporting Building Bridges Foster Family Agency, whose mission is to promote, support, enhance, and strengthen the development of children’s well-being while providing safety and permanency to their lives. By coming to the World’s Biggest Bounce Park®, visitors are making a difference in the lives of children who need it the most. The company’s founder, Antonio Nieves, is a former foster youth himself and is passionate about advocating for children who are aging out of the foster care system.
    Tickets start at $22 for approximately 90-minute jumping sessions, and all guests must have a paid general admission ticket. Toddlers from ages 0-2 and seniors over 65 years are free when accompanied by a ticketed customer. It is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee entry; any unused or unscanned tickets are honored within 30 days of the original ticket date. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult, and the adult must remain at FUNBOX® while their children are inside the inflatables.
    FUNBOX is thrilled to bring the World’s Biggest Bounce Park® to Arcadia and is excited to support Building Bridges Foster Family Agency. “We believe that every child deserves a happy childhood, and we’re committed to doing our part to make that a reality,” said Antonio Nieves, founder of FUNBOX.
    The World’s Biggest Bounce Park® will be open at the The Shops at Santa Anita. The hours of operation are Friday from 3 to 6 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10:30am to 6 pm.ADVERTISEMENTFor more information, visit the FUNBOX website at www.funbox.com or follow them on social media. Come and join the fun, and bounce with us at the World’s Biggest Bounce Park®!

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    Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival Returns with Globally Inspired Menu

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    Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival Returns with Globally Inspired Menu

    Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Food & Wine Festival will offer guests a one-of-a-kind experience of flavor and rhythm from various latitudes of the world. Beginning yesterday, the highly anticipated event will provide guests with an elevated culinary experience and the opportunity to enjoy live musical performances from some of the most popular artists in the entertainment industry. he event runs through May 21, featuring a total of 20 food and beverage cabins for guests to sip and savor and 23 live concerts. The Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival is included with park admission.
    Inspired by a variety of cultures, guests will have the opportunity to explore more than 20 globally inspired culinary offerings. For the perfect pairing, the choices range from 39 wines from regions near and far, 14 craft, domestic and international beers, bourbon tastings and more. From flavors of Asia to Busch Gardens’ own Xcursions store serving house-made coaster themed sweets, there is a dish for every palate at the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Guests can indulge with the following delights:
    NEW! – Trek Through Africa Cabin – African Vegetable Curry & Naan Bread (Vegetarian)NEW! – Twisted Egg Rolls Cabin – Buffalo Chicken Egg Roll with Ranch Dipping SauceNEW! – Moroccan Market Cabin – Berbere Spiced Chicken BatboutNEW! – Greek Isles Cabin – Lamb Lollipop with Mint Demi-Glaze (Gluten Free)NEW! – European Delight Cabin – Mushroom Ravioli with Truffle Cream Sauce (Vegetarian)NEW! – Asian Inspired Cabin – Spicy Pork Belly with Mandarin Orange Soy Glaze (Gluten Free)NEW! – Springs Taproom Bar & Lounge – Traditional Tuna PokeNEW! – Cocktails & Beer Cabin – Spicy Watermelon Margarita Craft CocktailNEW! – Xcursions Gift Shop – Signature Coaster Cupcake 4-PackNEW! – Latin Twist Cabin – Piña Colada TrifleHeadlining Concerts for Every TasteBusch Gardens Tampa Bay is dishing up a variety of headlining concerts for every taste as part of the Food & Wine Festival. Twenty-three headlining acts spanning genres of pop, rock, country, and more, will take the Festival Field Stage for 11 weekends jam-packed with rhythm and flavor.
    Kansas – March 11Maddie & Tae – March 12SWV – March 18Dustin Lynch – March 19Rodney Atkins – March 25Flo Rida – March 26Jeremy Camp – April 1Coming Soon! – April 2+LIVE+ – April 8The Fab Four – April 938 Special – April 15Mitchell Tenpenny – April 16Air Supply – April 22Gabby Barrett – April 23Hoobastank – April 29WALK THE MOON – April 30All headlining concert performances are included with park admission and will take place in the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival main stage located past the cabins on the Festival Pathway. To view showtimes, purchase reserved seating and VIP packages, guests can visit BuschGardensTampa.com.
    A Celebración with Latin Flare for Cinco de Mayo and Viva la MúsicaADVERTISEMENTThe Food & Wine Festival transforms into a melting pot of Latin cultures featuring world-renowned iconic dishes and live música from award-winning Latin artists. For this Latin fiesta, guests can expect a complete transformation of the festival area and enjoy authentic Latin gastronomy and entertainment. Cinco de Mayo and Viva La Música celebrate the diverse Latino heritage and culture with the authentic flavors and rhythms of Mexican, South American and Caribbean countries into the mix.
    Cinco de Mayo and Viva la Música takes place every Saturday and Sunday from May 5 – 21 and are included with daily park admission, Annual Pass or Fun Cards. The full Latin artists’ lineup for 2023 is:
    The Como La Flor Band – May 5Celia Vive – A Tribute to Celia Cruz – May 6El Gran Combo – May 7Toño Rosario – May 13Grupo Niche – May 14Elvis Crespo – May 20Luisito Ayala y la Puerto Rican Power – May 21Sampler Lanyards Provide the Best Way to Experience the Food & Wine FestivalThe absolute best way to experience the flavors of the Food & Wine Festival at Busch Gardens is with a Food & Wine Sampler Lanyard. Starting at $70 and redeemable at the numerous cabins located throughout the park, Sampler Lanyards offer the best value for guests and will be available in quantities of 10 and 15. An exclusive 18-item sampler for the same price as a 15-item is available for all Pass Members. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages.
    Add More Flavor to Your Experience with a VIP Seating PackageBusch Gardens has the perfect ingredients for an exclusive experience at the Food & Wine Festival with VIP Seating packages. Guests can get up-close to their favorite artists, enjoy one complimentary beverage and gain access to a private VIP bar. Package includes one entry per reservation to the VIP reserved seating area on the concert field and one beverage at the VIP Bar. Reservation is only valid for the date and time purchased. To reserve a VIP Seating Package guests can visit BuschGardensTampa.com.
    Annual Passes and Fun Cards Offer the Best Way to PlayBusch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Annual Pass is the best way to enjoy an entire year of thrilling attractions and exciting seasonal events. Categorized in easy-to-use tiers, options provide guests with unlimited year-round admission and unbeatable benefits including free parking, in-park discounts and monthly rewards starting as low as $15.
    Additionally, those interested in paying for a day and playing all year can take advantage of the current buy-one-get-one Fun Card offer. For a limited time, guests purchasing a Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Fun Card will receive an Adventure Island Fun Card for FREE.
    Guests can visit BuschGardensTampa.com to purchase tickets and learn more about the Annual Pass program’s benefits and monthly rewards, the current special offer for the 2023 Fun Card and stay in the know about new events, special deals and future announcements by following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube and Twitter.

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