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    Sheybarah Island resort will be one of the most luxurious hotels in the Middle East

    Sheybarah Island and its Sheybarah Resort will be one of the most luxurious destinations in the Middle East, according to its designer, Shaun Killa of Killa Designs.He said: “This is probably the most magnificent island in the Red Sea development. The brief for Sheybarah was to create an ultra-luxury eco-resort. We’re almost making the villas disappear, they will reflect the sky and the sea constantly.
    “Ultimately, this resort will be one of the highest luxury resorts in the region and has the credibility of being completely and utterly self-generating via the sun.”
    Sheybarah Island is an upcoming destination in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea gigaproject, set to redefine luxury and sustainability in the hospitality industry. The island’s centerpiece is the Sheybarah Resort, a futuristic hotel that is scheduled to open its doors in 2024. Designed by Killa Design, the architectural firm behind Dubai’s Museum of the Future, the resort aims to be a benchmark for regenerative developments and promote sustainable design in every aspect of its environment.
    One of the standout features of Sheybarah Resort is its metal orb villas, which give it a futuristic appearance.
    The sustainability efforts of Sheybarah Resort are commendable. The entire property is designed to be off-grid and operate on renewable energy sources. A centralised solar farm powers the resort, ensuring that it operates as a zero-energy establishment. Additionally, fresh water is supplied through a solar-powered desalination plant, minimising the resort’s ecological impact. Waste materials are recycled on the island, reducing the need for external transportation and minimising the resort’s carbon footprint.ADVERTISEMENT
    As one of the 50 hotels planned for the Red Sea gigaproject, Sheybarah Resort aims to be among the most luxurious options available. Notable hotel brands such as St. Regis, Six Senses, Jumeirah, Raffles, and SLS will also be part of this prestigious destination. However, Sheybarah Resort stands out as a property that could potentially become Red Sea Global’s own hotel brand. CEO John Pagano has expressed the need for creating separate one-off projects that align with the resort’s visionary design, rather than trying to fit it into existing brand standards. These special projects will comprise only a small portion, approximately 10 percent, of the overall destination.

    Sheybarah Resort is poised to revolutionise the concept of luxury and sustainability in the hospitality industry. With its futuristic metal orb villas, renewable energy usage, and commitment to regenerative development, the resort promises an extraordinary and environmentally conscious experience for its guests. As the Red Sea gigaproject continues to unfold, Sheybarah Resort stands as a testament to the innovative and ambitious vision driving this remarkable destination.

    Source: Hotelier Middle East

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    Discover Palau, One of the World’s Last Remaining Frontiers,  with Four Seasons Explorer

    Remote and untouched – imagine a beautiful wilderness awash with natural and cultural wonders. Four Seasons Explorer is setting sail to one of the world’s last remaining frontiers beginning later this year. Hidden in a remote part of the mighty Pacific, discover Palau—home to more than 340 emerald islands, an astonishing spectrum of marine life, and a 4,000-year-old culture still sustained by the local knowledge of 20,000 traditionally minded people – the most vital element of the unique Palauan culture.Referred to as one of the Seven Underwater Wonders of the World, with a half million square kilometres (193,000 square miles) of protected marine territory, Palau offers glorious opportunities for divers and snorkellers. But that’s just the start of the island nation’s wondrous appeal. With only 9 of the country’s 340 islands inhabited, opportunities for raw natural adventure abound, while deep cultural immersions range from insights into the rich Palauan dance tradition—awash with powerful chanting, storytelling and vibrant colours—to intriguing exploration of WWII sites, symbolic bai meeting houses, and centuries of Spanish, German, Japanese and American influences.
    “The core Palauan value of omengull—respecting all and everything—deeply aligns with our values at Four Seasons,” notes Regional Vice President Armando Kraenzlin.  “Right from the Palauan Pledge that all visitors are asked to sign upon arrival, visitors are immersed in one of the world’s most unique cultures, founded on tradition and respect. It’s a thrilling paradise for anyone seeking harmony with nature, and the opportunity to learn and embrace the unique Palauan way of life.”Be among the first to experience Palau with Four Seasons Explorer: Reservations for the first adventures in late 2023 are now being confirmed, with several opening offers and daily embarkation options to choose from.  Call (960) 66 00 888, email:  [email protected] or book online to begin the adventure.

    Discover One of the World’s Last Remaining Natural FrontiersMore than 1,400 species of fish and 500 species of healthy corals thrive in Palau’s crystal waters and elevated lakes. The nation became the world’s first shark sanctuary in 2009, covering more than 600,000 square kilometres of ocean (230,000 square miles) while the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Palau’s astonishing spectrum of ocean life make it a paradise for swimming, snorkelling and diving.With a draft of 1.9 metres (6.23 feet), Four Seasons Explorer can access locations that larger vessels can’t reach, while its PADI 5-Star Dive Centre ensures expert multi-lingual instructors, the latest gear and onboard videographer, as well as custom-designed dive and excursion boats for direct entry to even the most inaccessible dive sites.Bucket-list amazement lies around every corner for divers, from the glittering stalactite formations of Chandelier Cave to the WWII history of Helmet Wreck; the gorgonian fans of Blue Corner to the dazzling canyons of Peleliu Wall. Experiences are equally awe-inspiring for snorkellers: millions of stingless golden and moon jellyfish in Jellyfish Lake; giant 115 kilogram (250 pounds) tridacna clams in Clam City; rabbitfish, turtles and goatfish in the crystal clear Ngedebus Coral Gardens—all accessed via guided excursions with Four Seasons marine biologists.
    Cultural Explorations The scattered islands of Micronesia’s Palau are home to a unique culture and intriguing heritage bound by a deep respect for the environment that has sustained generations of people. Four Seasons Explorer on-shore excursions are handled by insightful guides and include visiting Palau’s oldest bai (meeting house); exploring the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, estimated to date back to the year 161; marvelling at the cave paintings of Ulong Island; discovering the Belau National Museum, multiple WWII sites, traditional music, lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and more. Recreational activities on offer include windsurfing, stand-up paddling and kayaking, while wellness experiences showcase soothing yoga, breathing and restorative treatments on-board or on a secluded beach. Explorer guests can bathe in mineral-rich mud, learn traditional Palauan fishing techniques, hike, bird-watch or even learn to pronounce a few Palauan phrases. A World of Culinary CreativityAboard Four Seasons Explorer, each day begins with an array of à-la-carte breakfast choices. Meals served on-board are all-inclusive (with the exception of alcoholic beverages) with lunch and dinner menus changing daily, themed on regional creations from Palau and elsewhere in the Pacific, as well as Asia and the West. Highlights include regular beach barbecues complete with insights into Palauan music and culture – always with fresh (and where possible, local) ingredients – gourmet flourishes and an extensive wine list. ADVERTISEMENT
    A Floating ResortFour Seasons Explorer operates like a floating resort, offering daily embarkations and disembarkations, allowing up to 22 guests to explore as deeply—and for as long—as they wish. With the freedom to focus on personal areas of interest among Palau’s many bucket-list wonders, both underwater and on land,  all adventures are entirely bespoke. Guests can also look forward to a variety of on-board experiences, from connecting with Palauan people, chefs and musicians to learning from expert marine biologists and indulging in wellness experiences with spa therapists and yogis. Multi-Destination DiscoveryGiven its remote location, Palau is ideally experienced in conjunction with other nearby destinations. Palau International Airport in Koror is currently accessible via Taipei, Honolulu, Guam, Manila and Brisbane, with the island nation well placed for further exploration of Australia, the Philippines, Taiwan and other islands of Oceania such as Yap, Chuuk and the Federated States of Micronesia.
    Private ChartersFour Seasons Explorer will also be available for fully customizable private yacht charters in Palau for groups of up to 22—including dedicated charters for surf enthusiasts with the experts from Tropicsurf, from uncrowded “best-kept secret” breaks on the east and west coast reefs to adventurous “surfaris” off the country’s fringing islands during the winter months.

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    Dubai World Trade Centre events fuel Dubai economy in 2022

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    Dubai World Trade Centre events fuel Dubai economy in 2022

    A key driver of MICE sector growth and the largest operator across the wider MENASA region, Dubai World Trade Centre’s (DWTC) event calendar remained an economic catalyst for the Emirate – generating sustainably high returns for adjacent industries connected to the MICE ecosystem.63 Large scale events held at DWTC welcomed nearly 1.2MM attendees with 40% being international – an impressive 49% YOY increase in foreign participation, emphasising Dubai’s leadership as a global mega-event hub.
    “Dubai continues to attract businesses and talent from around the world, with DWTC providing an effective connectivity platform to collaborate, accelerate innovation, and showcase next-generation products and services to far-reaching markets. This sustained impact of in-person events is a clear indicator of the MICE industry’s role in supporting economic growth and achieving investment returns for all stakeholders,” said H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri Director General of DWTC Authority.
    According to DWTC’s 2022 Economic Impact Assessment Report, released today, DWTC’s 63 large-scale events ( >2,000 attendees) grew by 26% YOY. Total direct economic output across MICE business services and adjacent sectors more than doubled YOY (108%) to reach $2.55 billion. This further reinforces DWTC’s global leadership as a consistent driver of incremental revenues benefiting other vital sectors of the economy.
    DWTC events supported over 48,000 jobs, representing a 110% YOY increase, yielding increased disposable household income of $651 million.
    DWTC’s robust events portfolio spans key priority verticals for Dubai’s economic agenda with Healthcare, Medical, and Scientific; Information Technology (IT); and Food, Hotel, and Catering, emerging as the top three sectors. They accounted for 57% ($1.16 billion) of the gross value added (GVA) to Dubai’s economy. Combined attendance represented 46% (535,000) of total large-scale event visitation.ADVERTISEMENTAnnual events, which included GITEX Global and Gulfood, generated $3.55 billion in economic output, of which $2.03 billion was retained within Dubai’s GDP.
    “2022 has been a particularly milestone year for global MICE, and Dubai’s ability to continue to sustain its pace of growth in this sector that has been through a transformative period showcasing revival post-pandemic, is testament to our ability to render sustained value to business participants,” concluded His Excellency Almarri.

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    WTTC Calls for Urgent Action on Sustainable Aviation Fuel

    The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has called on governments around the world to “get serious” on incentivizing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production and set ambitious targets to produce adequate quantities.
    Without meaningful quantities of SAF, the global tourism body says the aviation sector cannot decarbonise on a scale that will allow it to reach Net Zero by 2050, as committed to by the industry and supported by ICAO Member States.
    The aviation industry expects to reach net zero carbon emissions by
    •  Delivering the maximum reduction in emissions at source, through the use of SAF and innovative new propulsion technologies like hydrogen and electric •  Deploying modern fuel-efficient aircraft fleets•  Operational efficiency improvements (in air navigation, for example), and •  Out-of-sector solutions like offsetting or carbon capture.
    SAF is expected to deliver the majority of greenhouse gas abatements needed to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Unfortunately, SAF production rates are insufficient to meet demand and prices remain high, despite the recent exponential increase in production.ADVERTISEMENTThe time for action is now. Without SAF, governments will struggle to meet their climate goals as set by the Paris Climate Agreement and their commitments to economic growth, which is heavily reliant on aviation for tourism, trade, and connectivity.
    To address this urgent issue, WTTC calls on governments to
    •  Provide strong incentives to encourage investment in SAF production, including tax credits, grants or other financial incentives •  Work with the sector to set ambitious SAF production targets•  Coordinate their actions through the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the specialised UN agency for aviation, to ensure global uniformity in SAF regulations, sustainability standards, procedures, and organisation.
    An example of a successful incentive programme is in the United States. The recent Inflation Reduction Act which, through the Tax Blender Credit, created tax incentives for SAF production that are already bearing fruit.
    Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said “It is time for governments to take bold action and prioritise the production of sustainable aviation fuel. We are calling on all governments to act now.
    “The demand for SAF has never been higher, airlines all over the world want to use SAF and have used every molecule ever made. However, current SAF production only meets 0.1% to 0.15% of requirement, despite a 200% increase in production in 2022 vs 2021. This leaves a massive gap that can only be filled through rapid and sustained investment.
    “At today’s prices, SAF is on average three to five times more expensive than traditional fossil fuels. Governments must address this cost disparity by providing financial support and incentives to make SAF more accessible and affordable. Without those targets and without those incentives, the sector cannot decarbonise.
    “The G7 leaders have an opportunity to deliver critical leadership on this issue by following-up on the commitment of their Climate, Energy and Environment ministers to accelerate efforts to decarbonize the aviation industry, including through the promotion of SAF. Turning the words of a communique into concrete policies to scale up SAF production would give aviation’s decarbonization a critical boost.”
    The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently launched a new policy aimed at accelerating SAF production, SAF Deployment. The policy calls for governments to take a leading role in facilitating the scale-up of SAF production. It also underscores the need for policies which are harmonized across countries and industries to provide a level playing field for the global civil aviation industry, while being technology and feedstock agnostic.
    The IATA paper draws attention to the need for policies to address both near-term and longer-term SAF deployment and provide the necessary certainty for producers and investors to allocate existing biofuel refinery capacity to SAF as well as to develop new infrastructure.
    WTTC in partnership with ICF has launched a white paper, demystifying the impact and benefits of SAF for tourism destinations around the world. The white paper, ‘Sustainable Aviation Fuels: The Implications & Opportunities for Tourism Destinations’, sets out three critical actions destinations are advised to undertake to address the challenge and embrace the opportunities of SAF.To read the report please visit wttc.org.

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    China’s Travel & Tourism sector forecast to see swift post-pandemic recovery

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    China’s Travel & Tourism sector forecast to see swift post-pandemic recovery

    The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) reveals China’s Travel & Tourism sector’s GDP contribution is forecast to grow more than 150% this year.The sector is set to contribute CNY 9.9TN to the economy this year, edging closer to the 2019 pre-pandemic high of CNY 12.27TN.
    Despite the effects of the pandemic spanning into 2022 in China, WTTC is forecasting for the sector to create almost 11.5MN jobs this year, recovering one in two of the jobs lost to reach 74.7MN. This means around one in 10 workers in China, are directly or indirectly employed in the Travel & Tourism sector.
    While the sector is still shy of 7.9MN jobs to reach pre-pandemic levels, by the end of this year it will only be 10% below 2019 levels.International visitor spend in China is forecast to grow more than 50% this year to reach more than CNY 306BN. Although this is positive growth, it is still almost 70% below the 2019 peak.
    A look back on last year
    Due to ongoing travel restrictions, last year the sector’s GDP contribution declined by almost 30% to reach CNY 3.9TN, representing just over 3% of the economy. ADVERTISEMENTIn 2019, before the pandemic, the Travel & Tourism sector in China was worth CNY 12.3TN, representing almost 12% of the economy. The sector saw jobs decline in 2022, from the previous year, to a low of 62.9MN jobs nationally – one in 12 jobs across China.
    International visitor spend in China also declined in 2022 as the effects of prolonged travel restrictions continued to have a chokehold on the sector. International visitor spend declined a further 8.5%, remaining almost 80% below 2019 levels.
    Domestic visitor spend followed a similar pattern, declining 33% last year, remaining 67% below 2019 levels.
    Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Travel & Tourism is a vital driver of economic growth and job creation to China, and we predict a significant boost to the global Travel & Tourism sector as residents begin to travel once again.
    “The fact China has reopened is great news. In 2019 Chinese tourists represented 15% of international spending and that figure is set to grow. We are urging governments to prioritise and streamline visa applications to ensure embassies can manage the high visa demand from Chinese residents.”
    In 2019 and 2022, between 74-77% of international visitors to mainland China came from Hong Kong, Macau, Myanmar, South Korea, Japan, the U.S. and Vietnam. There were 49.7MN arrivals from those source markets in 2019, however in 2022, this reduced by 85% to 7.2MN arrivals.
    What does the next decade look like?
    The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to almost CNY 27TN by 2033, 14% of the Chinese economy and will employ over 100MN people across the country, with one in seven Chinese residents working in the sector.
    Asia-Pacific
    In 2022, the Asia-Pacific Travel & Tourism sector contributed $1.6TN to the regional economy, but this is still 50% behind the 2019 peak. WTTC forecasts the region’s GDP contribution from the sector will reach more than $2.6TN in 2023 – just 16% below the 2019 highpoint.
    The sector employed over 155MN people across the region in 2022, an increase of 8.7MN from the previous year but still 15% behind pre-pandemic levels. WTTC forecasts the sector will fully recover the jobs lost during the pandemic by the end of 2024.

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    North Dakota Invites Visitors to Kickoff Summer with Unbelievable Views

    From the rolling prairies of North Dakota Badlands to the tall bends near the Pembina River, North Dakota’s awe-inspiring views and off-the-beaten path adventures pair together for a summer to remember.Embark in the state’s wide-open spaces, revel in sunflower fields as far as the eye can see and watch in awe as majestic wildlife roam in their natural environments. Home to some of the country’s most inspiring terrain, summer is an ideal time to explore the legendary wonders that make the state a restorative escape.Crow Flies High Butte – New Town, NDJust west of New Town, this outlook provides unobstructed views of Lake Sakakawea and the Badlands bluffs. The view is breathtaking no matter what time of year and includes a glimpse of the Four Bears Memorial Bridge spanning across the water. Along with stunning views, Crow Flies High Butte also has historical significance as it was once used as a lookout by famous explorers Lewis and Clark.
    Starry Nights – Bottineau, NDExperience not only some of the darkest skies in the U.S. but some of the nation’s best views of the spectacular aurora borealis also known as Northern Lights. Camp under the stars at Lake Metigoshe State Park in Bottineau and make a stop at the nearby town of Rugby’s Northern Lights Tower and Interpretive Center, which is dedicated to the dancing night skies. Visitors to the region can also partake in the Lake Metigoshe Outdoor Learning Center, which offers hands-on programming related to history, nature and recreation.
    Rendezvous Region Scenic Backway – Walhalla, NDLocated in northeast North Dakota, this backway is a special place with a storied history, recreation and scenic beauty. Winding along the banks of the Pembina River this scenic backway offers several opportunities to take in the panoramic views of the Pembina Gorge. Recreation in the Pembina Gorge includes canoeing, hiking, biking, horseback riding and wildlife observing.
    Badlands Overlook – Medora, NDTheodore Roosevelt National Park is a place where visitors become fully immersed in the one-of-a-kind terrain that mesmerized our nation’s “conservation president.” The old western town of Medora, where Theodore Roosevelt once wore the boots of a deputy sheriff, is the gateway to the national park. This year, take part in the park’s 69th Annual Birdwalk on Sunday, June 4. Participants depart from the South Unit and are invited to take in the sights of more than 40 different bird species.
    Painted Canyon Overlook – Belfield, NDThere is no hiking required to see one of the state’s most iconic views. Painted Canyon Overlook, right off Interstate 94 near Medora, offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Badlands. Known for its formation of red, brown, white and orange rock, this is a must-see vista while exploring the region. Complete with a visitors center featuring information and exhibits, Painted Canyon Overlook is one of the most accessible areas of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and is free to the public.ADVERTISEMENTFor more information on North Dakota’s scenic views and to plan a one-of-a-kind summer road trip, visit NDTourism.com or browse the 2023 Travel Guide.

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    ST. REGIS HOTELS & RESORTS AND VILEBREQUIN REVEAL LIMITED-EDITION CAPSULE COLLECTION More

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    ST. REGIS HOTELS & RESORTS AND VILEBREQUIN REVEAL LIMITED-EDITION CAPSULE COLLECTION

    Just in time for the summer season, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts and celebrated French swimwear brand Vilebrequin are excited to announce a capsule collection of three exclusive prints designed in Vilebrequin’s signature style and inspired by three of St. Regis’ highly anticipated resort openings – The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya, The St. Regis Los Cabos Resort, and The St. Regis Red Sea Resort.
    This collaboration brings together two iconic brands known for creating glamorous leisure experiences. Widely regarded as the authority on luxury swimwear, Vilebrequin is the ultimate reference for those who wish to combine casual elegance with humor, originality, impeccable taste, and quality. At home in a colorful world reminiscent of fine sandy beaches, sunsets, and dreams, Vilebrequin has embraced a spirt of freedom and elegance since it was founded. A like-minded brand that recognizes the importance of heritage and quality, Vilebrequin is the perfect and stylish complement to St. Regis Hotels & Resorts part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands.
    From the mangrove forests of Riviera Maya to the white-sand beaches of Los Cabos to the tranquil waters of the Red Sea, the thoughtfully created patterns draw inspiration from these diverse and spectacular destinations as well as St. Regis’s most iconic symbols. Designed for St. Regis guests of all ages, the five-piece collection includes men’s swim trunks, women’s shorts, children’s swim trunks, a beach tote and travel pouch – all available in each of the three exclusive patterns.
    “We are thrilled to partner with Vilebrequin to bring our glamorous new resorts to life through this limited-edition collection,” said George Fleck, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “As we continue to grow our resort portfolio, we have loved working with the designers at Vilebrequin to tell the story of three of our highly anticipated openings through each of these designs. We look forward to spotting our luminaries in these Vilebrequin patterns around the world!”
    “Inspired by the legacy of the St. Regis, we wanted to create a series of prints that spoke to these incredible leisure destinations while remaining true to the world of Vilebrequin,” said Emmanuele Vinciguerra, Vilebrequin President, The Americas. “In each of our designs, you will find iconic elements of the St. Regis brand brought to life and reimagined through the whimsical world of Vilebrequin – a perfect combination.”ADVERTISEMENTSt. Regis Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to growing its resort portfolio solidifies the brand’s position as a leader in luxury leisure hospitality. Floating atop a natural mangrove reserve along Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya recently opens its doors, combining striking architecture and stately grounds with a design story rooted in Mayan mysticism. Inspired by the resort’s location, design narrative and celestial inspiration, Vilebrequin created a beautiful blue pattern where the St. Regis crest dances alongside mangrove trees and lush tropical florals. Woven throughout the design are symbols of Ancient Mayan culture including celestial bodies of the sun and stars as well as butterflies, believed to be the spirits of Mayan ancestors return to comfort those they left behind.
    Located on its own private island, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort is slated to debut in late 2023. Inspired by the Arabian Riviera, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort print features shells, turtles and palm trees in rich, bold hues of blue and green. Resting below the shady palms, the pattern incorporates the pear-shaped oud, a prominent string instrument featured in Arabic music.
    Expected to debut in 2024, The St. Regis Los Cabos Resort is located within Quivira Los Cabos, situated along a glorious 2.5-mile stretch of virgin beach on the Sea of Cortez. Designed to transport you to a seaside escape, the white and navy nautical St. Regis Los Cabos Resort pattern features marine emblems such as sailboats, whales, seahorses and turtles. Flutes of champagne serve as a nod to the St. Regis ritual of champagne sabrage while a pair of golf clubs and golf tees complete the pattern – the resort offers access to the Quivira Golf Club, which boasts an award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature Design and breathtaking views.
    The Vilebrequin collection for St. Regis Hotels & Resorts will retail for $310 (men’s sizes), $215 (women’s sizes), $160 (children’s sizes), $75 (travel pouch) and $95 (beach tote). Within the United States, the collection is available for pre-order at the St. Regis Boutique here, and in the Caribbean and Latin America, available for purchase at The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya.

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    The best bizarre museums to visit in Europe, according to tourists

    European cities are a treasure trove of cultural heritage, attracting travellers from all corners of the world.
    But while popular attractions like national art museums or historical buildings are a must-see on every tourist’s agenda, there is a whole other world of eccentricity waiting to be explored.European cities are a treasure trove of cultural heritage, attracting travellers from all corners of the world.
    But while popular attractions like national art museums or historical buildings are a must-see on every tourist’s agenda, there is a whole other world of eccentricity waiting to be explored.So, if you’re looking to experience something a little different on your next European city break, the travel experts at luggage storage network Stasher have compiled a list of the best bizarre museums to visit in some of Europe’s most popular cities based on tourist reviews.
    Scout Museum, ViennaThe highest-rated museum with a difference in Europe is the Scout Museum (or Pfadfindermuseum) in Vienna, Austria.
    Boasting an impressive 4.9 stars out of 5 on Google Reviews, the museum is praised for its amazing storytelling about the history of the scout movement and for its regularly updated exhibitions.ADVERTISEMENTThe entrance fee is just €4 (£3.40) for adults and €2 (£1.70) for children under 18, making it an affordable attraction for those with an interest in boy scouts – or those who want to learn more.
    The museum is open to the public at limited times on Thursday and Friday each week and at other times by prior arrangement.
    Visit: https://pfadfindermuseum.org/
    Stained Glass Museum, KrakówThe Stained Glass Museum in Kraków, Poland is the second highest-rated bizarre museum in Europe, with a visitor rating of 4.8 out of 5.
    The museum has a rich history, operating as a functioning stained glass workshop since 1902 and even continued operating through World War II.
    Guided tours at the museum are offered for 42 PLN (roughly £8). For those who prefer to get hands on, the museum also offers workshops to make your own stained glass souvenirs.
    Opening hours for visitors are from Tuesday to Saturday from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm, on Saturdays: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased via the on-line booking system or at the museum box office.
    Visit: http://muzeumwitrazu.pl/en/
    The Magic Circle Museum, LondonThe Magic Circle, which is the self-proclaimed most famous magic society in the world, has its headquarters in London. It even counts the newly crowned King Charles III as an honorary member.
    The enchanting venue is highly coveted, with an average review score of 4.8 out of 5.
    It is home to a treasure trove of items telling the story of magic, including the shoes that Dynamo wore when he famously walked across the Thames and the first book written in English about magic over 400 years ago.
    The Magic Circle Museum only welcomes visitors through its public events programme and doesn’t accept walk-ins – so check before you travel.
    Visit: https://themagiccircle.co.uk/visiting-the-magic-circle/
    Fairground Art Museum, ParisThis whimsical museum is certainly one for the playful-at-heart travellers.
    With a Google Review rating of 4.7 out of 5, you’ll want to consider adding this to your Paris itinerary.
    Described as “a world of dreams”, the Fairground Art Museum is full of curiosity cabinets, carnivals, incredible gardens and Belle Epoque funfairs. Its interactive format frees visitors from traditional museum window displays and labels.
    To avoid disappointment, make note the museum is only open on Wednesdays, weekends and school holidays. Available dates for booking are released 2-3 weeks before the visit date.
    Visit: https://arts-forains.com/en/visitors
    Imperial Carriage Museum, ViennaPerhaps not one for petrolheads, the Imperial Carriage Museum in Vienna, Austria, celebrates transport from a bygone era and has a good average tourist rating of 4.7 out of 5.
    Visitors to the museum can expect a spectacular and vivid impression of court life, featuring many original historical carriages (not replicas) from Queen Sisi’s era to the 1900s.
    The museum has an entrance fee of €12 (roughly £13.82) but generously offers free entrance for anyone under the age of 19.
    Visit: https://www.schoenbrunn.at/en/about-schoenbrunn/gardens/tour-through-the-park/carriage-museum
    Other unique museums in the top ten include those dedicated to industrial objects, snow globes, post and vintage radios which you can find out more about here.
    And what’s worth skipping?
    While the curious nature of these bizarre museums makes them interesting – not all are worth visiting, according to tourist reviews.
    So, which museums scored the lowest in the study?
    The Torture Museum in Amsterdam is the lowest rated, with an average review score of 3.3 out of 5. Most criticisms of the museum are due to both its small size and lack of any captivating displays.
    The Lighting and Heating Tools Museum in Istanbul placed 2nd lowest rated, receiving an average score of 3.3 out of 5. Whilst being mentioned as one of its kind, the majority of negative reviews are around the museums’ lack of hygiene and cleanliness. Additionally, it appears the Museum hasn’t communicated closure periods well, with visitors arriving to find the experience unavailable with no warning.
    A Berlin duo of the Museum of Unheard of Things (3rd) and the Museum of Gas Lanterns (4th) fill the next two places among the lowest rated. Most of the former’s negative reviews consist of closure periods, though the latter’s preservation of their gas lanterns has been criticised most.
    The Museum of Fantastic Art in 5th place has a focus on surrealism. With an average score of 3.6 out of 5, the Brussels museum has received backlash for its ‘misleading’ name according to some visitors.

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