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      Leo Trippi Celebrates 10 Years at the Top With 10 Coolest Experiences

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      Leo Trippi is thrilled to announce it has won World’s Best Ski Travel Agent at the World Ski Awards for an unprecedented tenth consecutive year. A multi-award-winning luxury travel company, Leo Trippi specialises in exceptional luxury ski holidays and tailor-made escapes. In celebration of retaining this title for the past decade, Leo Trippi is sharing its “10 Coolest Experiences”, commemorating 10 years at the top and looking ahead to the next 10.Oliver Corkhill, CEO at Leo Trippi & Co-Founder, Viadi Group comments:
      “It’s a testament to our brilliant team that we’ve retained this award for an unmatched 10th consecutive year. We firmly believe that our long-standing presence in the Alps, as well as our unparalleled destination knowledge, is what sets us apart from our competitors. As we hone our experiential offering for 2024, from a supercar driving tour through the Swiss Alps to heli-skiing safari across the Swiss, Italian and French Alps, we are excited to bring an unparalleled alpine offering to our valued clients.” 
      Launched in 2013, World Ski Awards aims to improve standards within the ski industry by rewarding the organisations that are leaders in their fields. Ski tourism continues to constitute a vital segment of the global travel and tourism marketplace with an estimated 400 million skiers visits annually to more than 2,500 resorts.
      So, here’s to the next 10 years, and Leo Trippi’s 10 coolest experiences for 2024:
      1. Ultimate Swiss Heli-Ski SafariADVERTISEMENTSki adrenaline junkies need look no further thanks to Leo Trippi’s 10 day ski itinerary for adventure seekers. This exhilarating cross-border experience will take skiers to some of the most iconic resorts in the Swiss, French and Italian Alps. Fly up to the peaks in a chopper before descending off-pistes, down glaciers and untouched mountains together with an expert team of guides. Participants can also receive lessons from ski legends such as Marc Garcia and Jean-Jacques Rey during their trip, elevating their skills on the slopes. Each heli-ski safari can be tailored to guests’ preferences and desires.
      2. Stay at the World’s Best Ski Chalet, Zermatt Peak
      Experience the majesty of the Matterhorn from the world’s most opulent chalet. Immerse yourself in architectural splendour, breath-taking views and jaw-dropping design. Chalet Zermatt Peak epitomises luxury: accessed via a private tunnel, it enjoys an iconic location set into the side of the mountain with unrivalled panoramic views across the picturesque village of Zermatt.
      3. Experience Chefs at New Heights
      Add the wow factor to your alpine escape with one of the world’s greatest Michelin-starred chefs taking you on an unparalleled gastronomic journey. Epicureans need look no further: this alpine experience goes beyond the slopes combining Michelin-starred dining with exhilarating high-altitude skiing across Switzerland, Italy and France. Chopper to the top of the mountain to enjoy the sunrise whilst one of the greats whips up an indulgent breakfast to power your run back down? Go on, then.
      4. Winter Wonderland in the Arctic Circle
      Discover an oasis of comfort in the wilderness with a winter holiday of a lifetime in the Arctic Circle. Stay at Fjellborg Arctic Lodge in Swedish Lapland for privately guided winter activities such as dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing. The highlight: a snowmobile excursion to an indigenous Sami camp where you will learn about their fascinating culture.
      Dining-wise, an epicurean adventure that celebrates locally sourced food awaits, focused on Lappish cuisine, with plenty of fresh fish, game, berries and mushrooms.
      5. Heli-ski in Antarctica this winter aboard explorer yacht, La Datcha
      For the coolest of bragging rights, explore the last frontier of heli-skiing aboard the 77 metre SeaExplorer, La Datcha. With rare availability for the 2023-2024 Antarctic season, La Datcha, with two helicopters on board, is one of the only operations able to provide efficient and safe heli-skiing across the frozen continent. Begin your journey at Puerto Natales, staying at Awasi overlooking the Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, before flying to King George Island to begin a 7-10 night once-in-a-lifetime voyage for up to 12 guests.
      6. Snowmobile across the snowy peaks of Courchevel
      Discover the mountains by moonlight with a 23 km night-time snowmobile ride on the snowy peaks of Courchevel. Stop for a private dinner in a cosy mountain hut before toasting each other with Champagne whilst watching fireworks light up the dark sky. A resort synonymous with glamour, Courchevel 1850 is home to its own airstrip, countless Michelin-starred restaurants and the best luxury chalets, making it the ultimate luxury ski experience.
      7. Private heli tour in Verbier
      Take to the skies over Verbier and enjoy a private heli tour through the whole of Val de Bagnes, right up to the source of the Otemma glacier. Stop off for an aperitif and sample locally produced wines, cheeses and charcuterie of the highest quality. An exhilarating experience for couples of families alike.
      8. The Secret Side to Gstaad
      Discover a secret side to Gstaad as our local partners take you beyond the tourist trail to discover the true ‘heart’ of Switzerland. Travel off the beaten track and discover Gstaad like a local with Leo Trippi’s tailor-made five-day itinerary. From a private carriage ride in one of the most beautiful parts of the valley to a sunset alphorn concert, this is sure to be a trip to remember.
      9. Action-packed Patagonia
      Head across the pond to Patagonia for the ultimate adrenaline-filled adventure. Set within 13 acres,  Rio Palena Lodge is a spacious, secluded retreat guarded by the awe-inspiring Andes mountain range. Stay between October and December for incredible guided heli-skiing expeditions in the dramatic Los Lagos region of Chile. The terrain includes an assortment of open bowls, steep couloirs and gentler glacier runs, with a typical day consisting of six to ten runs. When not taking to the slopes, try your hand at fly fishing, white-water rafting, hiking or mountain biking.
      10. A supercar driving tour across the Swiss Alps
      Petrol heads and pleasure seekers unite in the summertime joy of the Swiss Alps with a tailor-made supercar driving tour across Switzerland. Behind the wheel of your dream car, you’ll journey from the shores of Lake Lucerne to the magnificent Jungfrau Region and the spectacular Valais, taking in incredible sights and experiences along the way.
      For further information or to book please visit www.leotrippi.com or call +44 1285 366 030

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      Viking Announces New Ship for the Mekong River

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      Val Thorens Voted ‘Best Ski Resort in the World’ for the 8th Time in 11 Years at World Ski Awards More

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      Croatia forecasts a 10% growth in tourism for this low season

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      Mabrian, a leading travel intelligence company, has analyzed in a new study the low season opportunities for Croatia and the Mediterranean. The analysis was presented at the 7th edition of the Tourism 365 Conference that has taken place in Toplice, Croatia, this month. 
      This forum brought together both public entities in the tourism sector and major private companies to discuss opportunities for maintaining sustainable tourism activity throughout the south-eastern Mediterranean region all year round. The conference also featured prominent international speakers, including Carlos Cendra, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Mabrian, who presented forecasts and analyses of tourism strengths and opportunities for Croatia and other Mediterranean countries.
      The main conclusions of the study are:
      ·      A Seasonal Context with Room for Improvement. Croatia still has room for improvement during the considered low season months. When compared to the context and its closest competitors, the data indicates that the Southeast Mediterranean region is 9 percentage points more dependent on the high season than the average in the nearby Mediterranean, while Croatia is 16% more. ·      Promising Prospects for the Low Season. One of the main takeaways from Mabrian’s analysis is the promising outlook for Croatia in the coming months. It forecasts a 10% increase in tourism from September to March 24, compared to last year. In terms of growth, Croatia is expected to outperform Italy and Turkey during these months, although it has not yet reached the levels seen in Greece.
      ·      Croatia Well Positioned for Travellers’ Motivations. According to the latest global travellers’ motivations study conducted by Mabrian, there is a consistent growth in experiential motivations for travel, substituting more conventional motivations. Analysis of travellers sentiment and preferences, based on over 400 million interactions on social media, reveals that interests in Active, Natural, Wellness, and Gastronomy experiences are gaining importance over Sunbathing, Family Travel, Shopping, and Nightlife. This positions Croatia with a great opportunity to solidify its leadership in Nature and Active tourism products during the low season, compared to Mediterranean competitors. Additionally, there is an interesting opportunity to further develop Gastronomy and Culture-related activities, which were among the main travellers interests from October to March during the Autumn-Winter 2022-2023 season. ADVERTISEMENTIvana Kolar, CEO at Julius Rose Consulting and Director of the Tourism 365 Conference, commented, “It is great to have confirmation that the Southeast Mediterranean region and Croatia are moving forward to achieve a more balanced tourism activity throughout the year. This has been the objective of this conference since its inception 7 years ago – bringing together governments and companies to align on vision and strategy”.
      Carlos Cendra, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Mabrian added, “There are no doubts about the development possibilities of the region and Croatia for the non-summer season. The data shows excellent security perception and a well-balanced tourism offering to generate sustainable activity throughout the year, thereby boosting local economies”.
      Mabrian Technologies is an international data intelligence company specializing in travel and tourism. It provides updated information and trends to destinations and companies. Powered by proprietary technology based on Big Data and AI, and supported by a tourism advisory team, Mabrian aggregates data from over 30 global sources to advise destinations in more than 40 countries. The company has now begun working in the Southeast Mediterranean region, thanks to its partnership with New Deal Europe.

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      SAUDI ARABIA SHOWCASES UNRIVALLED OPPORTUNITIES AND COMMITS TO STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

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      Royal Jordanian Grows its Long-Haul Fleet With Order for Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners

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      Boeing and Royal Jordanian announced today an order for four 787-9 Dreamliner jets as the airline expands and modernizes its widebody fleet. Jordan’s flag carrier also reconfirmed at the Dubai Airshow a previous order for two 787-9s, bringing its total 787-9 backlog to six.“Our decision to add the 787-9 Dreamliners to our fleet is a testament to our dedication to providing an unparalleled travel experience,” said Samer Majali, vice chairman and CEO of Royal Jordanian. “This move aligns seamlessly with our broader strategy of fleet modernization, emphasizing fuel efficiency, sustainability and passenger comfort. As we embark on this journey, we are confident that the Dreamliner’s cutting-edge technology will play a pivotal role in elevating our operational capabilities.”
      Building on Royal Jordanian’s fleet of seven 787-8 airplanes, the addition of another member of the Dreamliner family will enable the airline to fly more passengers and cargo farther. The 787-9 can fly 296 passengers 14,010 km (7,565 nautical miles), building on routes first opened by the 787-8.
      “Royal Jordanian, having been the first in the Middle East to order the 787 over 16 years ago, continues to lead in adopting advancements in aviation,” said Majali. “The airline’s current fleet of seven 787-8 Dreamliners has proven successful in connecting Amman to major global destinations. The additional order underscores Royal Jordanian’s forward-looking approach and commitment to meeting the growing demand for long-haul travel.”
      “This order for additional 787s is a testament to Royal Jordanian’s longstanding commitment to the market-leading capabilities of the Dreamliner,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We are confident Royal Jordanian will profitably expand its network and operate a more sustainable fleet with these new fuel-efficient jets.”
      Boeing Global Services will also provide modification services for Royal Jordanian’s in-service 787s that will enhance in-flight connectivity for passengers and crew. As part of the agreement, Boeing will perform the engineering work, while supplying kits for the modifications.ADVERTISEMENTSince revenue service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched more than 380 new nonstop routes around the world. The 787 Dreamliner family reduces fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces.
      Boeing’s 2023 Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) cites a growing need for widebody airplanes in the Middle East as passenger demand in the region continues to grow between major population centers. The CMO projects delivery of 3,025 new commercial airplanes in the region by 2042 ─ nearly half of which will be widebodies.

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      Royal Air Maroc Confirms Order for Two Boeing 787 Dreamliners

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      Airlines for America Anticipates Record Travel This Thanksgiving

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      U.S. airlines are expecting nearly 30 million travelers over the 11-day Thanksgiving travel period (Nov. 17-27), which is an all-time high.
      A4A projects about 2.7 million passengers will fly per day over the holiday, which is a nine percent increase from 2022.The Sunday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 26, is predicted to be the busiest day of the holiday period, with a record-setting 3.2 million passengers.
      Airlines are Ready for Record Demand
      U.S. airlines have been working for months to prepare for the holiday travel season and are ready to welcome the record number of travelers. To prepare, airlines have been:
      Hiring aggressively to ensure we have the right people in the right places at the right time to support the unprecedented travel volumes. Today, U.S. passenger airlines have the highest employment levels in more than 20 years and are hiring at a pace 3.5 times higher than overall U.S. job growth. More information about the industry’s investments in our workforce can be found here.Adjusting schedules to reflect passenger demand and to prioritize operational performance.Investing heavily in technology including mobile apps to improve communication with travelers.Tips for TravelersADVERTISEMENTDownload your airline’s mobile app: Be sure to download your carrier’s app as soon as you purchase a ticket! U.S. airlines have made significant investments in their mobile apps so they can provide important flight updates such as boarding times, gate numbers and other necessary announcements. Also, many airline apps offer free movies, tv or texting services in flight.Allow plenty of time: Be sure to allow extra time if you are hailing a taxi or using a ride share company, as they get particularly busy around the holiday travel season. If you are driving yourself to the airport, allow ample time for heavy airport traffic and be aware that some parking garages are under construction.Pack snacks and an empty water bottle: Some airport vendors may be closed, so take a snack and an empty water bottle that you can fill after clearing security.Consider signing up for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry: If you do not have TSA PreCheck, consider enrolling ahead of your next trip for a faster and smoother experience at the security checkpoint.

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      PATA and ICCA Forge Partnership to Boost Business Travel and Sustainability in Asia Pacific

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      PATA and ICCA Forge Partnership to Boost Business Travel and Sustainability in Asia Pacific

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      The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), becoming dedicated partners in establishing meaningful connections between the two organisations.
      The MOU was signed in conjunction with the 62nd ICCA Congress in Bangkok hosted by Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). This is the second time Thailand played host to the ICCA Congress, with the first time in 2007 in Pattaya. The agreement was signed on Sunday, November 12 by PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid and ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath in the presence of the President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, PATA Chair Peter Semone and ICCA President Marta Gomes, on the first day of the ICCA Congress 2023 taking place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand.
      “Our collaboration with ICCA underscores the unwavering commitment of both organizations to foster responsible and sustainable growth within the travel and tourism industry, not only in the Asia Pacific region but also on a global scale. This partnership holds great promise for the expansion of business opportunities in the region as there is important synergy between the travel and tourism industry and business events, as both relate to travel and economic impact for destination and industry players. We eagerly look forward to sharing valuable insights and best practices with them,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.
      Under the MOU, both parties plan to create joint programme content designed to nurture the ‘Business Travel’ sector in the Asia Pacific region, emphasise sustainability in future activities and events, and begin cross-participation in flagship events between the Associations, among other priorities.
      “ICCA is proud to sign this important MoU agreement with PATA which reinforces how closely linked our organisations are. We both share values around sustainability, education, legacy, and advocating for the global significance of international collaboration and partnership. Asia Pacific is an amazing place, culturally diverse and endlessly fascinating. It offers so much to the world in terms of travel and business. Yet it is the people here that are key to developing new opportunities, and ICCA salutes the collective energy, efficiency, and boundless desire to create unique event experiences for all,” said ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath.ADVERTISEMENTICCA is a global community and knowledge hub for the international association – and governmental – meetings industry. Founded in 1963, ICCA specialises in the international association meetings sector, offering data, education, communication channels, as well as business development and networking opportunities. Today, ICCA continues to advocate for the world of international meetings. The ICCA Association Community offers associations across the world education, connections, tools and resources to help them organise more effective and successful meetings.

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      Tourism Shizuoka Japan Highlights Local Delicacies and Experiences to be enjoyed this Winter

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      Located one hour away by bullet train from Tokyo, the prefecture of Shizuoka boasts an array of seasonal delicacies during the autumn and winter months. Below Tourism Shizuoka Japan highlights some hands-on foodie experiences that can be enjoyed over this period, including kiwi and mandarin picking and oyster farming.A boost of vitamin C
      The mandarin picking experience by Suzuki Farm is an ideal way for travellers to infuse their autumn days with a healthy dose of vitamin C, just as the temperatures start to cool down. The experience is available until the end of November and begins with a demonstration by the farmers on how to pick and distinguish different types of mandarin. After the demonstration, visitors are free to pluck mandarins at their own pace. Starting from JPY 1,100 (approx. £6) per person, this experience offers not only a hands-on adventure but also the chance for visitors to enjoy as many mandarins as they desire.
      All-you-can-eat kiwi fruit
      Located in Kakegawa, Kiwi Fruits Country Japan beckons visitors with its status as the country’s largest kiwi fruit farm, cultivating 80 different varieties. The facilities are open year-round and offer an unlimited kiwi fruit feast from JPY 1,500 (approx. £8) per person. The harvest season at the farm is from October until mid-January and during this period, visitors can also enjoy kiwi fruit picking at an additional cost. The facilities also boast a green tea farm and tranquil forest, the perfect setting for a leisurely post-feast stroll.
      ADVERTISEMENTOyster galore
      Surrounded by beautiful scenery and a popular destination for visitors, Lake Hamana is Japan’s second largest brackish lake, meaning its waters are a mix of salt water from the Pacific Ocean and freshwater that flows down from the Japanese Southern Alps. The Oyster Farm Experience is available from mid-February to March and offers participants the opportunity to sample Lake Hamana’s native oysters, which are mineral-rich, larger in size and an exclusive treat only found in this region. The experience starts from JPY 32,000 (approx. £176) per person inclusive of an overnight stay at a waterfront inn, an oyster farm tour departing from the inn’s private dock, oyster tasting and two meals. For those seeking further thrills, popular activities around the lake include an array of marine sports and cycling (there is a 67-kilometre cycle path along the lake) and adrenaline-pumping activities such as wakeboarding, parasailing and windsurfing.

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      The Spanish Tourist Office has announced key news for 2024 and the end of 2023.

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      From January up until the end of September 2023, Spain received 66.5 million international arrivals, up 18.8% year-on-year, and 0.6% below pre-pandemic levels in 2019. The main inbound tourism markets were the United Kingdom, representing around 13.8 million arrivals, France with almost 9.4 million arrivals and Germany, with almost 8.5 million arrivals.
      VALENCIA: EUROPEAN GREEN CAPITAL 2024
      Valencia has been named the European Green Capital for 2024 by the European Commission. This prestigious award underpins the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its ongoing efforts to address the challenges of climate change.
      2024: UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE ANNIVERSARIES
      The oldest five World Heritage Sites in Spain are approaching their 40th anniversary, having been designated in 1984. These include:ADVERTISEMENTAlhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, GranadaBurgos CathedralMonastery and Site of the Escorial, MadridThe Historic Centre of CórdobaWorks of Antoni Gaudí  THE PREHISTORIC SITES OF TALAYOTIC MENORCA BRING SPAIN’S UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE COUNT TO 50
      In September 2023, the prehistoric sites of Talayotic Menorca were added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, bringing the total number of sites in Spain to 50.
      FINALISTS OF SPAIN’S 2024 CITY OF GASTRONOMY REVEALED
      The four finalist cities for Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy (CEG) have been announced and include Alicante, Antequera, Castellón and Oviedo. The prestigious award, decided jointly by travel journalists and the Hospitality Association of Spain, was awarded to Cuenca, Castilla–La Mancha in 2023.
      SEVEN NEW VÍAS VERDES BUILT IN 2023
      In Spain, there are more than 3,300 kilometres of disused railway infrastructure that have been converted into cycle and hiking routes within the framework of the Greenways Programme, coordinated by the Spanish Railways Foundation. They are known as Vías Verdes – Green Ways.
      In 2023 seven new greenways were added to the network.
      2024: 100 YEARS OF THE MODERN BARCELONA METRO
      In 2024, the Spanish city of Barcelona will mark the anniversary of the full opening of its Metro train system (Metro de Barcelona).
      2024: A JUBILEE YEAR FOR CARAVACA DE LA CRUZ, MURCIA
      Every seven years since 2003, the holy city of Caravaca de la Cruz, located in the region of Murcia, celebrates a Jubilee Year which attracts thousands of pilgrims to the city seeking plenary indulgence.
      ANDALUCIA FLAMENCO MUSEUM TO OPEN IN JEREZ
      In 2024, Jerez de la Frontera is set to unveil the highly anticipated Andalucia Flamenco Museum.  Recognised as one of the primary strongholds of Flamenco, Jerez’s cultural identity is intricately intertwined with the art of Flamenco, wine, and horses.
      BARCELONA TO HOST 37TH AMERICA’S CUP IN 2024
      America’s Cup, the most important regatta in the world, will take place in Barcelona between August and October 2024. It is the 3rd sport competition with the highest economic impact on the host country, after the Olympic Games and the World Cup.
      SPAIN ANNOUNCES NEW CAMPAIGN PROMOTING THE COUNTRY AS A TAX-FREE SHOPPING DESTINATION FOR BRITISH TRAVELLERS
      On Monday 06 November 2023, Turespaña launched a new advertising campaign aimed at British young people, families, couples, and seniors to promote Spain as the perfect shopping destination. The campaign reminds UK residents that, since the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union, they can recover VAT on their purchases in Spain.

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      Cayman Islands – what’s new and happening in 2024

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      Cayman Islands – what’s new and happening in 2024

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      New Hotels in the Cayman Islands for 2024Scheduled to open in Q2 2024 is Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman. The 282-room 10-storey beachfront property will provide an upper midscale experience featuring multiple restaurants, a 6,700 square foot ballroom, a pool deck and a rooftop bar. Indigo’s restaurants and bars around the world are known as a favourite destination for visitors and locals alike. With sustainability in mind, the hotel is being built to LEED standards, which ensures high-performance buildings that have less of an impact on the environment. Hotel Indigo will use a geothermal/ice storage combination and will feature insulated glazing throughout to reduce energy consumption. The latest in Cayman real estate developer, Dart’s, hospitality portfolio, Hotel Indigo is expected to generate several hundred jobs when it opens. In 2022, Dart launched its Hospitality Training Programme, which provides Caymanians with the opportunity to obtain first-hand industry experience via a three-month work experience within the Dart hospitality portfolio.
      Looking Ahead on Grand Cayman In 2025, the island’s luxury hotel scene will be elevated further as two new properties make their debut. Mandarin Oriental Grand Cayman, located on the coast of St. James Point in Bodden Town, will have 100 hotel rooms and 89 residences on a 67-acre resort. The property will feature multiple swimming pools, a swimming cove and beach; a spa will offer a meditation pavilion, Zen pathways, serenity gardens and private treatment villas; food options will include the Ocean Grill, specialising in locally sourced seafood; The Restaurant, a signature restaurant with an exhibition kitchen, chef’s dining counter and wood-fired pizza oven; the kids’ club will include an interactive playroom and adjacent activities park.
      Seven Mile Beach will gain another 10-storey hotel in mid-2025 with the opening of the 354-room Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Hotel & Residences. The property will comprise 190 hotel guest rooms, 88 condo-hotel rooms, and one-, two- and three-bedroom condo-hotel suites. Boasting six restaurants, a 12,000-square foot destination spa and fitness centre, three swimming pools, beach cabanas, a screening room, indoor meeting space and a Camp Hyatt kids’ club, the Grand Hyatt will be the only other five-starinternational hotel brand in Cayman after The Ritz-Carlton, which opened in 2005.
      Also scheduled for a 2025 opening is the 177-unit One/GT, a boutique hotel that will feature a cafe, a signature restaurant and luxury rooftop venue Sky Club. Accommodation will range from one-bedroom units to four-bedroom apartments.
      Don’t Miss Out In 2024There’s something for every day of the year in the Cayman Islands; we’ve selected just some of the not-to-miss events taking place throughout 2024.ADVERTISEMENTCayman Cookout | 9-15 JanuaryAs the epitome of exclusive culinary festivals, 2024 marks the 15th anniversary of the annual Cayman Cookout – a celebration of food and wine, granting guests an extraordinary weekend dedicated to indulging their senses. Returning from 9-15 January 2024, the event is hosted by Chef Éric Ripert at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, who runs the resort’s signature restaurant. The four-day event will bring some of the biggest names in the culinary industry with Éric Ripert, including Angie Mar, José Andrés, Kristen Kish and Sommelier Aldo Sohm. Events include a “Hendrick’s & Croquet” experience, “Treasures of Truffle”, as well as a “Ripert & Petanque” signature session. Meanwhile, cooking and mixology demonstrations will occur along the stunning Seven Mile Beach. caymancookout.com
      Taste of Cayman | 12 AprilTravellers arriving in the Cayman Islands this April are in for a treat of the senses as the month also features Taste of Cayman and will bring together a host of food festival experiences, as well as live music and entertainment – the perfect reason to explore more of the Cayman culture and its diverse range of restaurants and cuisine. Tasteofcayman.org
      Cayman Art Week | 22-26 MayThe art scene in the Cayman Islands is flourishing. There are more than 150 nationalities represented on the islands of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, and this inclusive cultural scene has led to a movement of artistic expression, enabling artists to tell their stories. From 22-26 May, Cayman Art Week (CAW) takes up its annual place in the events calendar with its week-long curated programme of gallery tours and open studios around the Cayman Islands. The event is designed to celebrate and encourage the collection of Caymanian art. CAW offers unparalleled access to over 30 art venues, providing an opportunity to showcase exhibitions and host a range of discussions to local and international audiences. caymanartweek.com
      Batabano Cayman Carnival | MayAn explosion of Caribbean music, dancing and costumes, the annual Batabano Cayman Carnival celebrates the Cayman Islands’ multicultural history and diversity of music. An eye-popping fiesta, the carnival is well known throughout the Caribbean and attracts thousands of locals and tourists alike. Caymancarnival.com
      CayMAS Carnival | July CayMAS Carnival takes place over a whole wonderful weekend in July and event-goers can expect an all-encompassing complete Carnival weekend. Including steel pan, Soca Monarch, Parade and a host of fetes and parties for both locals and visitors alike, it’s a not-to-be-missed event on the Caymans calendar. www.caymas.ky
      National Iguana Awareness Day | 8 SeptemberThe Caymans Islands is home to both the rare blue iguana and the rock iguana. Indigenous to Grand Cayman and the only place in the world where they are found in the wild, blue iguanas faced a bleak future at the turn of this century and, in 2002, the blue iguana was declared ‘functionally extinct’ with only an estimated 25 of the species remaining. However, thanks to the extensive breeding programme, in 2018 the 1000th iguana was released back into the wild. Today, the figure stands nearer 1700. Today, visitors can spot these amazing creatures at the Blue Iguana Conservation facility at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, where all entry fees help support Blue Iguana Conservation. The sister islands rock iguana found on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman faces threats from cars and other predators; there is even an iguana hotline for people to report any sightings or injuries to. National Iguana Awareness Day marks a time to acknowledge and celebrate the fascinating community of iguanas inhabiting the islands.
      Cayman Cocktail Week | October It’s safe to say that visitors will be spoilt for choice when it comes to cocktails in the Cayman Islands. Indeed, the destination has its own Cayman Cocktail Week each October to celebrate as such. With the original Mudslide cocktail said to have been invented during the 1970s at the Wreck Bar on Grand Cayman’s Rum Point, today, the Cayman Islands’ cocktail scene is flourishing and a number of exceptional bars have popped up over the last three years, e recruiting bartenders from some of the world’s best bars. caymancocktailweek.com
      Cayman Pirates Fest | NovemberA swashbuckling good time for all three Islands, the annual Pirates Fest, complete with mock-pirate ‘invasion’, music, street dancing, competitions, local food and drink, children’s day, sea swims and firework displays, has been running for over 40 years and attracts some 35,000 patrons.  The event kicks off in September with district Heritage Days, but the main event is in November, when even a Pirate Pooch Parade takes place, as well as a Turtle Release in celebration of the Cayman Islands’ work in conservation through the Cayman Turtle Centre. Piratesfestcayman.com
      Gimistory | November/December Storytelling is as old as mankind and is one of the most ancient arts. In Gimistory, professional storytellers come from all over the world to celebrate the art of communication, telling stories that illuminate their heritage, explore myths and legends, and provide laughter and drama. Curated by the Cayman National Cultural Foundation, 2024 will mark 25 years of the annual event. artscayman.org/gimistory
      About the Cayman IslandsLocated south of Miami and a short hop from Cuba, the British Overseas Territory of the Cayman Islands is a premium holiday destination where laidback discovery awaits. Ideal for adventurous travellers, nature-lovers, diving aficionados and those looking to relax and unwind on world-class beaches, there’s as much thrill as there is chill. Friendly and hassle-free, with no all-inclusives, the trio of Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac islands provide the perfect off-the-beaten-path experience. Recognised as the No. 10 Island in the Caribbean & Atlantic by Condé Nast Traveller’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards and voted best diving and best culinary destination in the Caribbean, and with incredible wildlife and mouthwatering cuisine to boot, 2023 saw British Airways welcome a fifth weekly direct flight from London Heathrow.
      To discover more about the Cayman Islands visit: visitcaymanislands.com

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