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    Singapore Airlines Earns IATA Recertification for Perishable Cargo Handling Excellence

    Singapore Airlines (SIA) has attained the International Air Transport Association (IATA) global re-certification for its handling of perishable products via its Singapore hub. The re-certification is valid for three years, starting from 1 February 2024.
    This certification is based on IATA’s Perishable Cargo Regulations, which combine regulatory and operational inputs from government and industry experts. It validates SIA’s continuous efforts to meet the air freight industry’s highest standards for food safety, and prevent food waste along the supply chain.
    With this, SIA’s customers can be assured that their time- and temperature-sensitive cargo will be transported with speed and reliability via SIA’s THRUFRESH service.
    THRUFRESH features dedicated cold chain services such as priority uplift and handling, quick ramp transfers and cold room facilities to safeguard the integrity of perishables, as well as dry ice top-up at Changi Airport for transhipments.
    Partnering leading terminal operators and ground handlers in the world, SIA established quality corridors within SIA’s cargo network in 2021 to ensure the product integrity of perishable shipments at each step of the journey, in accordance with IATA standards. Nine SIA stations – Amsterdam, Barcelona, Brussels, Frankfurt, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong SAR, Hyderabad, Singapore, and Zurich – are currently certified under the quality corridor network.ADVERTISEMENTMr Marvin Tan, Senior Vice President Cargo, Singapore Airlines, said: “At Singapore Airlines, we are committed to delivering the highest level of service to our cargo customers. The IATA CEIV Fresh re-certification is an affirmation of the stringent safety and quality standards that we adhere to when transporting perishable cargo.”
    Mr Nick Careen, Senior Vice President Operations, Safety and Security, IATA, said: “We congratulate Singapore Airlines on achieving the IATA CEIV Fresh re-certification. Coupled with their investment in products and services to mitigate perishable product damage and waste, it is a testament of the airline’s commitment to serving their customers by consistently delivering fresh, high-quality products worldwide. This high standard in transporting perishables and commitment to upholding and surpassing international standards sets the airline as among the leaders in the industry.”
    In 2021, SIA became the first airline in South East Asia to receive the IATA Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators in Perishable Logistics (CEIV Fresh) certification. It remains the only airline in the region with this certification.

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    Global Air Cargo Demand Surges with 8.3% Growth in November 2023, Shows IATA Data

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    Global Air Cargo Demand Surges with 8.3% Growth in November 2023, Shows IATA Data

    The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for November 2023 global air cargo markets indicating the strongest year-on-year growth in roughly two years. This is partly due to weakness in November 2022, but also reflects a fourth consecutive month of strengthening demand for air cargo.
    Global demand for air cargo, measured in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTKs), increased by 8.3% compared to November 2022. For international operations, demand growth was 8.1%.
    Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometres (ACTKs), was up 13.7% compared to November 2022 (+11.6% for international operations). Most of the capacity growth continues to be attributable to the increase in belly capacity as international passenger markets continue their post-COVID recovery.
    Compared to November 2019 (pre-COVID-19), demand is down 2.5% while capacity is up 4.1%.
    Some indicators to note include:ADVERTISEMENTBoth the manufacturing output and new export order Purchasing Managers Indexes (PMIs) – two leading indicators of global air cargo demand—continued to hover just below the 50-mark in November with small positive movements indicating a deceleration of the economic slowdown.Global cross-border trade recorded growth for the third consecutive month in October, reversing its previous downward trend.Inflation in major advanced economies continued to soften in November as measured by the corresponding Consumer Price Index (CPI), centering around 3% year-on-year for the United States, Japan, as well as the EU, in November. In the meantime, China exhibited negative annual growth in its CPI for the second time in a row.Air cargo yields (including surcharges) continued their significant upward trend (+8.9% since October). Rising yields are in line with improving air cargo load factors over recent months. This could be tied in part to booming e-commerce deliveries from China to western markets.
    “November air cargo demand was up 8.3% on 2022—the strongest year-on-year growth in almost two years. That is a doubling of October’s 3.8% increase and a fourth month of positive market development. It is shaping up to be an encouraging year-end for air cargo despite the significant economic concerns that were present throughout 2023 and continue on the horizon,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
    November Regional Performance (Total Market)
    Asia-Pacific airlines saw their air cargo volumes increase by 13.8% in November 2023 compared to the same month in 2022. This performance was significantly above the previous month’s growth of 7.6%. Available capacity for the region’s airlines increased by 29.6% compared to November 2022 as more belly capacity came online with the removal of COVID-19 restrictions.
    North American carriers had the weakest demand growth in November with a 1.8% increase (YoY) in cargo volumes. This was, nonetheless, a significant improvement in performance compared to October’s -1.8% contraction. Capacity increased by 4.0% compared to November 2022.
    European carriers saw their air cargo volumes increase by 6.7% in November compared to the same month in 2022. This was a stronger performance than in October (1.0%). Capacity increased 6.5% in November 2023 compared to 2022.
    Middle Eastern carriers had the strongest performance in November 2023, with a 13.5% year-on-year increase in cargo volumes. This was similar to the significant improvement noted in the previous month’s performance (+13.0%). Capacity increased 15.4% compared to November 2022.
    Latin American carriers experienced a 4.2% increase in cargo volumes compared to November 2022, very similar to the 4.0% year-on-year increase recorded for October. Capacity in November was up 7.7% compared to the same month in 2022.
    African airlines saw their air cargo volumes increase by 3.9% in November 2023, slightly improved compared to October’s +2.9% growth performance. Capacity was 14.0% above November 2022 levels.

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    CELEBRITY CRUISES SAILS INTO 2024 WITH A SERIES OF FIRSTS FOR THE AWARD-WINNING PREMIUM CRUISE LINE

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    “CRUISE ON LAND PUNTA CANA” – An Innovative Tourist Destination in the Caribbean

    CRUISE ON LAND PUNTA CANA, a revolutionary and sustainable tourist project, is taking shape about 25 minutes from the international airport and close to the most outstanding tourist attractions in the east of the Dominican Republic. The development is the perfect opportunity for all persons seeking to invest, vacation or rent.
    The start of the sale of its 4,400 suites and residences surpassed expectations with around 1,000 units sold in the early stages and confirms that the complex of more than 100 attractions (theme park, artificial beaches, wave pools, and an interactive lake, among others) will be a very attractive source of employment for the destination.
    Advantages of Investment
    1.  Tourist destination with the highest profitability in the region2.  Investment security with the administration and protection of Fiduciaria La Nacional3.  Excellent profitability and capital gains with a safe return, through quick appreciation and the generation of income through tourism revenue4.  Vacation project in the process of classification by the CONFOTUR Law, which grants tax exemptions for 15 years
    About Cruise on LandCruise on Land is made up of developers, builders and investors from Colombia in partnership with developers from the Dominican Republic. They have more than 10 years’ experience, recognition and track record in the real estate and tourism sector. ADVERTISEMENTTo receive more information about the project, contact [email protected] or call +1 849 – 852 – 5059
    www.homesforsaleindominican.comwww.cruiseonland.com@cruiseonland

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    Jamaica Set to Welcome 3 Million Stopover Visitors in 2024

    Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett is leading a collaborative effort between public and private sector stakeholders to build capacity and systematically address the pain points in the tourism industry.  Minister Bartlett made the disclosure following a meeting with industry partners, which he led in conjunction with the president of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), Robin Russell, yesterday (January 11) at the AC Marriott Hotel. 
    Minister Bartlett outlined that the four focus areas assigned to the working groups will be Public Order in Tourism Spaces, Visitor Facilitation, Tourism Housing and Human Resources. 
    Noting the resilience and growth demonstrated by Jamaica’s tourism sector over the last year, Minister Bartlett said: “In 2023 we welcomed a total of 4.15 million visitors, which is a substantial 24% increase over the previous year. This reflects the remarkable appeal of Destination Jamaica.”
    He added that: “This includes 2,886,064 stopover visitors, which marks a 16.4% rise over the figure recorded in 2022. Additionally, there were 1,265,586 cruise arrivals recorded for the year, representing a whopping 48.3% increase over the number of cruise passengers that visited the island in 2022.” The Minister added that: “This surge in visitors generated foreign exchange earnings of US$4.27 billion, which represents an 18% increase over the revenue secured in 2022.”
    “Our impressive growth figures underscore the effectiveness of our tourism strategies. However, our commitment must be to propel the industry even higher,” the Minister said. ADVERTISEMENTHe stressed that with Jamaica anticipating some 3 million stopover visitors in 2024, boosting capacity is key moving forward. “Our success in 2023 is a testament to the enduring partnerships between the public and private sectors. Moving ahead, we are resolute in building the necessary capacity to meet the heightened demand projected for 2024 and beyond,” Mr. Bartlett noted.

    Minister Bartlett further explained that in direct response to the escalating targets and increased demand, yesterday’s meeting focused on strategic measures to strengthen the industry going forward. 
    On the issue of human capital development and the shortage of workers, Minister Bartlett highlighted the ongoing work of the task force which was formed to examine labour market arrangements in tourism. “The goal is to enhance the industry’s workforce, fostering a stronger and better sense of appreciation for the invaluable contributions of our workers,” he expressed. 
    Emphasising the importance of improving the airport experience to facilitate a seamless arrival for visitors, Minister Bartlett said during the meeting stakeholders examined ways to enhance overall visitor satisfaction and maintain the positive image of Destination Jamaica.

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    Be Part of the Story at The Wizard of Oz Museum

    While most museum gift shops offer books about a museum and its contents, The Wizard of Oz Museum takes its own story from the books to the screen by way of an immersive experience that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.The Wizard of Oz Museum is one of the most popular museums in the country that covers a book that emphasizes L. Frank Baum’s story and its impact on American culture. The museum’s family appeal is recognized by two major traveler ranking sources – TripAdvisor and Whichmuseum – where The Wizard of Oz Museum ranks in the top 20 for things to do in Florida among art and/or museum lovers, couples, kids, and pop culture fans, as well as best group activities, and as a hidden gem. At Whichmuseum, it ranks as #1 out of 8,751 museums in the country in four categories (child-friendly, audio tour, museum shop, and parking); as #2 among art museums in Florida, and as #14 among the best museums in Florida.
    For kids, excitement peaks when encountering artifacts in the Oz museum, when they are engaged and can make their own choices and participate in activities. Children are most drawn to the objects that resonate with their interests, prior knowledge, and experiences.
    For teenagers, it’s often an eye-opener that there is more than one book in the Oz series, and there’s much more in the book than what was in the 1939 movie. They are also shocked to learn that the Tik-Tok they use every day is from Baum’s book titled Tik-Tok of Oz from 1914. Millennials might also be impressed by the author’s prediction about wireless phones, robots, satellites, and bulletproof vests before 1920, and how the Google car resembles one from the cover of a 1941 Oz book titled Scalawagon in Oz.
    Gen X is intrigued by different versions of populism used in the story and guessing the origin of the main characters. Does the Scarecrow represent farmers? Does the Tin Man represent industrial people? What about Tin Man’s missing heart? Does this have anything to do with Baum having childhood heart issues that ultimately led to his death?
    Older Oz Museum visitors analyze the information presented to them through their life-long experience. The “Boomers” age group is often surprised when they learn Baum got an idea about the Emerald City from visiting the first Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. Baum’s use of spectacles in the Oz story is based on visitors of the fair who were blinded by the light at night.ADVERTISEMENTThe original Oz book was written at a time when the country moved from silver to the gold standard. This led to theories about Dorothy’s silver shoes from the book and the yellow brick road representing gold. Adding to speculation, it was noted that the measure for gold is ounce with an abbreviation of “oz”, and the color of American currency is the color of Emerald City.
    Other Oz theories questioned the coincidence that all the females in the Wizard of Oz story are strong, and all male characters lack something and need the support of Dorothy. Looking into this further, attention focused on what amount of influence Baum’s mother-in-law, Maud Gage, a feminist, had on him.
    History says children frequently asked Baum to draw a map to the Emerald City, but today only a GPS is needed to get there. Simply type Cape Canaveral, Florida, to find The Wizard of Oz Museum, and then just look for a 12-foot-tall Tin Man. For more information, visit The Wizard of Oz Museum at wizardofozflorida.com.

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    Adventures by Disney Announces New Holland and Belgium River Cruise

    Adventures by Disney continues its commitment to family travel with two new itineraries to Holland and Belgium. Beginning in 2025, families can embark on an enchanting river cruise and become immersed in Dutch culture, history and old-world charm, or join an exclusive spring departure to experience the legendary tulip season. Guests on each Holland and Belgium River Cruise itinerary will be inspired by the activities and experiences, such as marveling at the iconic Kinderdijk 18th century windmills, enjoying canal cruises through time-honored neighborhoods, visiting the museum of Plantin and Moretus publishing which dates back to the 1500s, admiring Dutch masters art and architecture, touring Royal Delft and taking part in a pottery activity, going to castles, riding bikes through the countryside, tasting regional food and drinks, and more — included and designed to take guests into the heart of the area’s storied history and modern-day influence.
    Additional information and details are available by clicking here.
    The Discovering Holland and Belgium Tour
    On the traditional Holland and Belgium tour, guests will visit Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp, Kinderdijk, Gouda and Bruges. Highlighted activities include celebrating the magic and music at the Utrecht Museum Speelklok, strolling through Castle de Haar, learning about Brussels’ influence on comic books, chocolate and more.
    For adult travelers, Adventures by Disney will offer this itinerary for one adult-exclusive departure.ADVERTISEMENTEmbark on the Tulip Tour
    The spring tulip sailing will highlight Holland and Belgium’s world-renowned floral beauty and industry. The tulip sailing will be offered once in April, to capture the splendor of the blooming season. Historically, tulips served as inspiration for Dutch master artists, and during tulip-mania in the 1600s, the bulb was used as an economic exchange.
    On this itinerary, guests will visit Amsterdam, Hoorn, Middelburg, Ghent, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Kinderdijk and Schoonhoven. Highlighted activities include walking among Keukenhof’s brilliant display of 7 million spring-flowering bulbs, visiting Hoorn and its tulip farms, exploring the Floralia Flower Show, painting an ornamental clog keepsake, and more.
    Each eight-day, seven-night voyage, in collaboration with AmaWaterways, will be led by Disney-trained Adventure Guides who take care of every detail and bring the destinations to life through masterful storytelling. Families will enjoy the convenience of unpacking once as the river cruise ship serves as the hotel for the entire trip. Meals and activities are provided and the selection — or on-your-own time — provides guests a customized adventure. Young travelers, or Junior Adventurers, can even choose to spend an evening together on an Adventure Guide-led activity.
    Booking Information and Details
    For nearly 20 years, guests traveling with Adventures by Disney have explored some of the most sought-after places in the world, and the travel brand’s global portfolio has expanded to now offering more than 40 guided-group adventures by land, river cruise and expedition cruise. Disney-trained Adventure Guides accompany every trip and bring real-world magic to life. Their masterful storytelling, in-depth knowledge of the places visited plus their attention to every detail ensures guests enjoy a hassle-free vacation and foster lasting connections with every destination. The authenticity and immersion in the places and cultures visited, plus insider access and activities, are at the heart of every Adventures by Disney vacation.
    To learn more about Adventures by Disney or to book a vacation, guests can visit AdventuresbyDisney.com, call 1-833-223-0103 or contact a travel agent.

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    Italy Calendar of Events – 2024

    PESARO NAMED ITALIAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE 2024
    Nestled along the Adriatic coast, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Overlooking the sea and crisscrossed by the River Foglia, Pesaro boasts two coastal hills that provide a stunning backdrop to its charm. Recognised by UNESCO as a creative city for Music, Pesaro celebrates its status as the birthplace of composer Gioachino Rossini.Italy continues to be a haven for art, music, and history enthusiasts. Here are some exciting events and exhibitions across the country:
    ART
    EL GRECO EXHIBITION EL GRECO EXHIBITION IN MILAN – PALAZZO REALE until 11th of February
    Witness the brilliance of El Greco’s artwork in Milan at Palazzo Reale. Dive into the unique style and emotional depth of this influential painter.ADVERTISEMENTGOYA EXHIBITION GOYA EXHIBITION IN MILAN – PALAZZO REALE until 3rd of March
    Continuing the artistic journey, explore the Goya exhibition at Palazzo Reale in Milan. Delve into the captivating works of Francisco Goya, a master of the Romantic era.
    RE-OPENING OF CINEMA MODERNISSIMO, BOLOGNA
    Film enthusiasts rejoice! The iconic Cinema Modernissimo in Bologna has reopened its doors, inviting you to experience the magic of cinematography in a beautifully restored early twentieth-century setting.
    MILANO DESIGN WEEK 16th – 21st of April
    Once again, in April, Milano the Capital of Design steps under the spotlights of the world of creativity and design with Milano Design Week and the Salone del Mobile: presented from 16th to 21st April at Rho Fiera and throughout the liveliest city districts.
    FIDIA, GREATEST GREEK SCULPTOR, MUSEI CAPITOLINI, ROME Fidia | Musei Capitolini until 5th of May
    Explore the works of Fidia, the renowned Greek sculptor, at Musei Capitolini in Rome. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and classical mastery of his sculptures.
    MUSIC
    OPERA SINGING GRANTED UNESCO INTANGIBLE STATUS
    Italy’s rich opera tradition has been recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Celebrate the expressive beauty of this art form, deeply ingrained in Italy’s cultural fabric.
    FESTIVAL DI SANREMO 6th – 10th of February
    The 74th Italian Song Festival, also known as the Sanremo Festival takes place in the Liguria Region. The event is broadcast live and in Eurovision by Raiuno, RaiPlay and Radio2.
    LEONARDO FROM DESIGN TO MACHINES – CORIGLIANO CALABRO, Calabria until 30th of June
    Embark on a journey through Leonardo da Vinci’s ingenious designs and machines in Corigliano Calabro, Calabria. Discover the genius of one of history’s greatest minds.
    CARNIVALS
    CARNIVAL OF VENICE until 13 of February
    The vibrant and colourful Venice Carnival is back for a fortnight of costumes, masks and celebrations. During the Carnival celebrations, Venice turns into an even more magical place. Every corner of this fabled city on the water flourishes with shows, music and parades. As in the past, private parties and masquerade balls still happen inside the Serenissima’s grand noble palaces. However, the most spectacular moments of the Venetian carnival – such as the “Flight of the Angel” and the “Festa delle Marie” – will take place at the St Mark’s Square, which becomes the centre of an amazing, open-air party.
    CARNIVAL OF FANO 28 Jan, 4th and 11th of February
    The Carnival of Fano is one of the oldest Carnival in Italy and the biggest in the Marche Region, featuring floats, masks, music, masquerades, shows and fireworks. However, what really makes this Carnival special is the launch of tons of sweets from the floats to the crowds of spectators.CARNIVAL OF VIAREGGIO 3rd, 8th, 11th, 13th, 18th and 24th February
    Among Italy’s most flamboyant events in Italy, particular mention goes to the Carnival of Viareggio. The floats made of papier-mâché are the stars of this carnival; huge, majestic, and thought-provoking, they are inspired by Italian and international politics and other current events, often represented in satire form, most times with a lot of irreverence. These parades draw thousands of visitors of all ages, who come to participate in the festive air that can be breathed in the town on the days of the masquerade processions. Events include big parties, sports events, slang theatre show and food stalls.
    FASHION
    MILANO FASHION WEEK 20th – 26th of February
    Milano Fashion Week Moda Donna, the key event on the Milano fashion calendar, makes its return to create dreams and aspirations. The biggest names in Fashion Week will enchant a global audience with their Autumn-Winter 2024/2025 collections.
    CULINARY DELIGHTS & GASTRONOMIC FESTIVALS
    WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OF GENOESE PESTO – Genoa 23rd of March, Doge’s Palace
    The World Championship of Genoese Pesto with Mortar is set to make a triumphant return to Genoa after a four-year hiatus imposed by the pandemic. Witness the culinary prowess of 100 competitors from around the globe as they go head-to-head, using pestles and mortars to create Genoese pesto according to traditional methods and with authentic ingredients. A panel of gastronomes and expert tasters will identify the top 10 finalists, who will compete in the final round in the afternoon. The World Champion of Genoese Pesto with Mortar will be awarded the prestigious “Pestello d’Oro,” an olive wood pestle with a handle wrapped in gold.
    FOCACCIA FESTIVAL OF RECCO – Genoa 26th of May, Recco
    Join the celebration of the iconic gastronomic symbol of Recco at the Focaccia Festival. Established in 1955 and organized by the Consorzio della Focaccia di Recco col formaggio and the Municipality of Recco since 2006, this event pays homage to the beloved focaccia. Experience the culinary tradition with the free distribution of both classic and onion-flavoured focaccia in the morning, followed by the afternoon delight of Focaccia di Recco with IGP cheese. Immerse yourself in the flavours of this cherished gastronomic heritage.
    EUROCHOCOLATE – Perugia 18 – 27th of October
    Indulge your sweet tooth at Eurochocolate in Perugia, where chocolate lovers converge to experience a delightful celebration of all thing’s cocoa. In its 30th year, the event promises captivating cooking demonstrations, intricate chocolate sculptures and the opportunity to savour and purchase a variety of chocolate specialties at the chocolate market and expo. Immerse yourself in the world of chocolate artistry and craftsmanship.
    TERRA MADRE SALONE DEL GUSTO Turin 26 – 30th of September
    Terra Madre Salone del Gusto is Slow Food’s flagship international festival. Hosted every other year in Turin, Italy, this event is the best food conference you’ve ever been to, combined with a huge food marketplace, workshops, networking, music and the flavours of the world.
    SPORTS
    EMILIA ROMAGNA REGION – CYCLE LIKE A PRO | Emilia Romagna Tourism 29th of June 2024
    In 2024, the iconic Tour de France Grand Départ will pass through Emilia Romagna, offering cyclists breath-taking routes through Bologna, Rimini, Cesenatico and Piacenza. For the 111th edition of the iconic Tour de France, the race will depart from Florence.
    HIKE OR CYCLE THE ‘DUCHIES TRAIL’ FROM EMILIA ROMAGNA TO TUSCANY | Sentiero dei Ducati
    Discover the Sentiero dei Ducati, an ancient pilgrimage route from Emilia Romagna to Tuscany. Hikers and mountain bikers will traverse picturesque landscapes, including vineyards, castles, and ancient churches.
    MOTORING AND BOATING
    EMILIA ROMAGNA REGION – FOLLOW ENZO FERRARI | Motor Valley
    To celebrate the film release of the Ferrari, the biopic of Enzo Ferrari’s. Visitors to Emilia Romagna can follow in Enzo’s footsteps and enjoy a test drive at Imola racetrack.
    LIGURIA REGION – GENOA BOAT SHOW 19th to the 24th of September
    Experience the pinnacle of Italian refinement at the 67th edition of the Genoa Boat Show, an event that showcases the best of Made in Italy brands. Located at the stunning Waterfront Marina in Genoa, the show offers a remarkable opportunity for both industry experts and enthusiasts to indulge in over 200,000 square metres of display space on land and water.
    NEW FLIGHTS
    ITA AIRWAYS
    ITA Airways is launching a new nonstop flight between Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and London City Airport (LCY) starting 1st April 2024. Operated with the new Airbus A220-100, this route will feature 12 weekly flights, catering to the significant demand from leisure and business travellers. Additionally, ITA Airways is introducing a fifth roundtrip flight from Milan Linate to London City, with service beginning on 10th April 2024 and increasing the weekly frequencies between Milan and London City to 31 flights.
    JET2.COM
    Jet2.com is set to expand its offerings for summer 2024 with exciting new routes:
    Edinburgh – Rome: Twice weekly flights from 8th March 2024, as part of Jet2’s major expansion at Edinburgh Airport.East Midlands – Naples: Weekly flights starting from 24th May 2024.Glasgow – Verona: Weekly flights starting from 8th May 2024.For summer 2025, Jet2.com introduces:
    Edinburgh – Catania: Twice weekly flights from 7th May to 22nd October 2025.In addition, Jet2.com will provide additional frequencies for the 2024 Six Nations Rugby Tournament, with extra flights to Rome during February and March 2024. Route increases for summer 2024 include expanded services from Edinburgh to Naples, Edinburgh to Verona, Birmingham to Catania, and Manchester to Olbia.
    RYANAIR
    Ryanair introduces two new flights:
    Luton to Treviso: Twice a week, starting from October 2023.London Stansted to Genoa: Winter 2023-2024 season.NEW HOTELS
    COLLINA LUXURY RELAIS in Clusone near Bergamo, Lombardy
    Discover the elegance and luxury of Collina Luxury Relais, a 5-star hotel in Clusone near Bergamo, Lombardy. Immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings and indulge in a world-class hospitality experience.
    HILTON EUR LA LAMA in Rome, near La Nuvola convention centre
    Experience unparalleled comfort and convenience at Hilton Eur La Lama in Rome, located near the La Nuvola convention centre. Enjoy world-class amenities and exceptional service at this exquisite hotel in the heart of the Eternal City.Top of Form
    CARUSO NUOVO BISTROT – New restaurant at the Gran Hotel et de Milan
    A new name, a new image, a new interior project by Dimorestudio, and a new team headed by chef Gennaro Esposito and the executive chef Francesco Potenza. The menu features dishes from both the Neapolitan and Milanese tradition, with courses guests can share in a pleasantly entertaining atmosphere.

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    New Florida Keys Eco-Experience Trail Pass Connects Visitors to Natural World

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    New Florida Keys Eco-Experience Trail Pass Connects Visitors to Natural World

    Visitors to the Florida Keys can now discover the island chain’s unique eco-attractions and rich natural world by tapping into the free Florida Keys Eco-Experience Trail pass.The mobile-exclusive digital pass enables users to find and check in at local businesses while exploring the environment and wildlife of the continental United States’ southernmost island chain.  The easy-to-use pass features only-in-the-Keys attractions, sites, and marine adventures, all designed to help visitors connect with the natural surroundings.
    Created by the Florida Keys tourism council and technology company Bandwango, the Eco-Experience Trail pass includes nearly 50 geo-tagged, bookable activities that encourage engagement with the Keys’ environment and sustainability initiatives – from wild dolphin watching in Key West aboard Honest Eco’s purpose-built electric boat to going behind the scenes at Plant a Million Corals on Summerland Key. Further activities and offerings are to be added in 2024.
    After accessing the pass via fla-keys.com/experience, users can begin exploring state parks and nature tours, wildlife centres and refuges, coral restoration opportunities, eco-adventures and more, from Key Largo to Key West. Also featured are fishing, diving, and snorkelling tours in the waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary that protects the continental United States’ only living barrier coral reef — many conducted by sanctuary-certified Blue Star operators.
    Users can filter experiences by location, activity type or attraction, choosing from kayaking the backcountry waters of the Lower Keys, to uncovering wildlife refuges, or spotting endangered species such as Key Deer, the smallest subspecies of the North American white-tailed deer. Upon checking in at a location on the pass, users also receive points based on the level of the experience. Once a specific number of points is earned, passholders can exchange them for Keys-focused prizes. In addition, some participating businesses provide value-added offerings or incentives.
    “The Eco-Experience Trail pass is an easy-to-use, mobile-based ‘passport’ that introduces visitors to the best of the Florida Keys’ natural attractions,” said Rita Irwin, chair of the Keys tourism council. “Once they connect with the island chain’s environment, they can make eco-conscious choices that help protect it.”ADVERTISEMENTFor full details and to download the Eco-Experience Trail pass, visit fla-keys.com/experience.
    For more information on the Florida Keys & Key West, visit www.fla-keys.co.uk

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