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      Bahamas to Enter Agreements with Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

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      The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation is leading a delegation of tourism officials to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for three days of meetings culminating in the signing of a multi-million-dollar contract with the Saudi Fund for Development to enhance economic tourism development in The Bahamas.“Over the last few years, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism officials have engaged in ongoing bilateral talks with government officials in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” said Deputy Prime Minister Cooper.
      “Our continuing communication led last year into both countries entering into a Memorandum of Understanding, and this visit will culminate with the cementing of this agreement through a contract signing for the construction of innovative business incubation centres around our archipelago,” he said.
      While in Riyadh, the Deputy Prime Minister will meet with His Excellency, Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and tour King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), formerly known as the Saudi Arabian National Centre for Science and Technology (SANCST), which is an independent scientific organisation that is responsible for the promotion of science and technology in Saudi Arabia.
      “The Bahamas and Saudi Arabia are creating unified strategy to share mutual tourism investment opportunities alongside day-to-day expertise in initiatives like sustainable tourism practices, management of tourism facilities and the sharing of insight and data,” added the Deputy Prime Minister

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      THG Announces Partnership with Mansion Entertainment Group to Develop American Heartland Theme Park

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      THG, an independent creative agency specializing in creating awe-inspiring attractions for theme parks, museums, and leading brands, is proud to present its latest project, American Heartland Theme Park – providing attraction design, art direction and overall creative development. Working in collaboration with Mansion Entertainment Group’s Executive Producer of Project Development, Steve Hedrick, THG crafted the initial concept master plan and is currently engaged in show design of the park’s primary attractions. Additionally, the design team is collaborating with renowned design firms such as FORREC and Cuningham.
      Mansion Entertainment Group announced the project yesterday in Vinita, Oklahoma. The 1,000-acre development will feature the 125-acre American Heartland theme park, which is comparable to the size of Magic Kingdom® Theme Park and Disneyland® Park. The park will feature an Americana-themed environment with a variety of entertaining rides, live shows, family attractions, waterways as well as restaurant-quality food and beverage offerings. The theme park and resort are scheduled to open in fall of 2026.
      “I am so excited to embark on this extraordinary project, joining forces with this talented collection of teams,” said Erik Neergaard, Chief Creative Officer at THG. “Our collaboration brings together decades of expertise and creativity. We are honored that Mansion Entertainment Group is leading the development of this captivating and unforgettable destination. This is one of the first independent theme parks of this scale to be built in the US in many years.”
      THG lead conceptual design work for the new American Heartland Theme Park, combining the nostalgic charm of a traditional amusement park with modern-day elements. The new park features a collection of six distinctly American lands to welcome guests on a journey through the best of the American story. Families will find thrilling rides and heartwarming shows as they discover Great Plains, Bayou Bay, Big Timber Falls, Stony Point Harbor, Liberty Village and Electropolis. This independent regional theme park will be located in northeast Oklahoma, just west of Grand Lake on Route 66 and promises to deliver an immersive and captivating experience for visitors.
      The brains behind the American Heartland Theme Park features some of THG’s most experienced and talented leaders. Erik Neergaard, Chief Creative Officer at THG, specializes in cultural-entertainment-fusion which has led to award-winning design experiences across the globe. Joining Erik on this project is Scott Sinclair, Executive Director Of Design. Scott Sinclair has served as lead designer on international projects, ranging from the Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland, Tokyo DisneySea, Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame in Seattle, to Abbey Road Studios. They are supported by THG’s amazing Pasadena-based award winning creative team. THG brings more than two decades of experience with projects from One World Observatory at One World Trade Center, the High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ in Las Vegas, and Beyond All Boundaries at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans.ADVERTISEMENTAs a world leader in experiential design, THG has worked with high-profile clients around the globe such as Universal Creative, Walt Disney Imagineering, DreamWorks, Sony, Paramount, Nickelodeon and more. Most recently, THG collaborated with Cedar Fair and Knott’s Berry Farm to transform Fiesta Village at Knott’s Berry Farm. THG transforms clients’ visions into uniquely creative attractions, exhibits, shows and settings. THG has additional projects in the pipeline for this year that further showcases its innovative approach and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences.

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      The Adrenaline Rush Is Closer Than You Think at These European Theme Parks

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      If you want to find some of the best rollercoasters in Europe, you don’t have to stay in the UK or even go to Disneyland Paris – France, Belgium and The Netherlands have some of the highest, fastest and most exhilarating rollercoasters and attractions you’ll find anywhere in Europe, and the fact that you can drive to them from Calais is all the more reason to hop on a ferry with DFDS and take your thrill-seeking to new heights – literally!
      Parc Asterix
      After Disneyland Paris, Parc Asterix is the biggest theme park in France, and while they may not be as well known in the UK, in France Asterix and Obelix are superstars.
      Originally a comic book series that first appeared in 1959, the series has spawned TV shows, cartoons films (both animated and live action), books, games, and of course, the theme park. France’s first satellite and even two asteroids are also named after the pair! The comics have been translated into 111 languages, making them the most widely translated comic book series in the world.
      But while Asterix and Obelix have been children’s favourites for decades, the park isn’t just for kids. There are rides for thrill seekers of all ages, from the classic carousel and miniature train to the Pegasus Express, which will suddenly throw itself into reverse on its perilous journey through the ancient cities of Olympia and Alexandria, and Discobelix, where you spin round and round and back and forth like a giant discus thrown by Obelix himself.ADVERTISEMENTIn 2023 Parc Asterix unveiled its newest rollercoaster, Toutatis – the fastest rollercoaster in France. Achieving speeds of 110kmph and standing 51m high, it also boasts the most airtime of any steel rollercoaster in the world – you leave your seat 23 times!
      The Parc is incredibly popular in France, attracting approximately 2.3 million visitors a year, and its 50 attractions and shows are spread over six areas or “universes”, each themed around a different Asterix and Obelix adventure. The park is the total package for a family holiday, with three hotels on site as well as several restaurants, cafes, and bars.

      Efteling
      Enter the enchanted world of Efterling, a magical theme park where fairy tales come to life. It is the largest theme park in The Netherlands and actually predates the original Disneyland in the US, making it one of the oldest theme parks in the world. It is such a popular theme park in Europe that only Disneyland Paris and Europa-Park in Germany regularly receive more visitors.
      Folklore and fairy tales abound in Efteling, where you can meet classic characters and get lost in stories from around the world. Explore the Fairytale Forest with Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel, encounter ancient tribes along Pirana’s river rapids, and dine with the Sultan on Fata Morgana – just don’t get thrown in the dungeon!
      But it’s not just for kids, the rides at Efteling challenge even the most adventurous of thrill-seekers. The Baron 1898 drops you down a 37.5m free fall at 90kmh, Python twists and turns round its double loop and tight corkscrew, and Vliegende Hollander takes you on a doomed ship’s eternal journey before splashing into the abyss.
      There are shows and live entertainment to enjoy, including a thrilling knight’s tournament and a spectacular water show, as well as chances to meet your favourite fairytale characters. You couldn’t enjoy everything Efteling has to offer in just a day, so stay overnight at one of Efteling’s excellent accommodations such as the glamorous Efteling Hotel or the idyllic lakeside holiday village of Efteling Bosrijk to make the most of one of Europe’s best theme parks.
      https://www.efteling.com/en

      Plopsaland
      Just across the border into Belgium is Plopsaland, one of the country’s most beloved amusement parks and themed around children’s favourite Maya the Bee. Suitable for kids of all ages, Plopsaland has 52 attractions, including seven rollercoasters.
      One of the highlights of the park is their rollercoaster The Ride to Happiness, the very first extreme spinning rollercoaster in Europe. Riders are catapulted to 90km an hour on the almost 1km ride as the cars rotate freely on the journey around the track – a bit like a waltzer and a rollercoaster combined! No two rides are the same, with the twists, drops and chicanes giving riders a different experience every time.
      For younger kids, there are other rides and rollercoasters that are a bit less high octane, but great fun nonetheless, such as De Draak and the K3 Roller Skater.
      Guests can stay in one of the 117 rooms and suites in the Plopsa Hotel, which has its own restaurant, cocktail bar and theatre, or the Plopsa Village, where guests can bring their own camping equipment and motorhomes or stay in one of the amazing chalets on site.
      Now that the summer heat is here, don’t forget to visit Plopsaqua, a huge Viking themed waterpark with flumes, swimming pools, and a wave pool. There are rides and activities for all ages, with special pools for younger children and toddlers, and if you’re feeling brave you can do the Sky Drop, a 20ft freefall slide into the pool below. There’s even a sauna and jacuzzi if you want to treat yourself to a bit of much needed relaxation.
      https://www.plopsalanddepanne.be/en

      Parc Bagatelle
      Parc Bagatelle in Merlimont is in the heart of an area that is perfect for holidaymakers, especially those with young children. The nearby town of Berck-sur-Mer has a fantastic Blue Flag beach with excellent beach activities for adults and kids alike, and a the town itself has plenty of souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants along the seafront that make it surprisingly reminiscent a British seaside town.
      Parc Bagatelle is an excellent amusement park for kids of all ages, with rides that have been designed for toddlers upwards. There are gentler rides for the younger children, and more exhilarating rides for older kids and adults like Triops, which takes you round spins and loops on the second highest rollercoaster in France, and the 4G spins and exhilarating twists and turns of Silver Wings.
      There are rollercoasters, dodgems, and a little train that tours the park for younger kids and anyone who might want a gentler ride, there’s even a petting zoo, a mini farm and a boating lake to enjoy, complete with rowing boats and pedalos.
      The park is set in the middle of the woods, and it has taken efforts to give back to nature with the farm and the boating lake. There is also a dedicated area known as Insect City, where a habitat has been created to allow insects to flourish. Visitors can learn about the different insects in the park and their vital role in the biodiversity of the area.
      There are restaurants, bars and shops to satisfy your hunger while you explore and enjoy the park, and plenty of areas to rest after all the excitement of the rides and attractions, with hotels and camping sites nearby for guests who want to make the most of the park.
      https://www.parcbagatelle.com/
      DFDS offers up to 30 crossings per day on its Dover to Calais service. Fares start from £68 each way for a car and four people. Browse a selection of fragrances, cosmetics and electronics in DFDS’ duty-free shops and save up to 50 per cent off UK high-street prices. Book at www.dfds.com.
      Upgrade your ticket to include access to the exclusive Premium Lounge with complimentary hot and cold drinks and snacks from £12 per person. Add Priority Boarding to be one of the first to board and disembark the ferry from £10 per car each way.

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      Angsana Introduces Heritage Collection: Hacienda Xcanatun and Riads Marrakech

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      Angsana Introduces Heritage Collection: Hacienda Xcanatun and Riads Marrakech

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      To mark 23 years since its inception, Angsana, a brand under Banyan Tree Group, presents a curated portfolio of properties steeped in architectural heritage, history, and culture.
      Known as Angsana Heritage Collection, this brand extension offers intimate experiences and deep-seated stories that weave together past glory and present comforts.
      Hacienda Xcanatun, Angsana Heritage Collection
      The recently expanded Hacienda Xcanatun, Angsana Heritage Collection in Mexico is located just 15 minutes away from downtown Merida, the capital city of the Yucatan region known for its tropical rainforests and being the home of the ancient Mayans.
      During Mexico’s colonial period, haciendas – large rural estates – were the epicentre of the country’s economic and social life. Named after the Mayan word for “tall stone house”, Hacienda Xcanatun was first built to house and operate livestock in 1789. Soon, it became a prosperous henequén hacienda – henequén being the Spanish term for Yucatan sisal – the fiber of a maguey plant native to the region that became the main material for of fabrics, cords and textiles exported worldwide between the mid-19th to early-20th centuries.  ADVERTISEMENTIn the 1990s, Jorge Ruz Buenfil, the son of a noted archaeologist, and his wife Cristina Baker, transformed Hacienda Xcanatun into a hotel by restoring the architecture to its 18th-century grandeur.
      In 2020, Hacienda Xcanatun was acquired by Banyan Tree Group, under its Angsana brand, known for intertwining local chic with vibrant destinations. After two years of careful expansion with attention to detail, the resort unveils 36 brand new suites, in addition to the 18 historic suites that have been part of the original architecture for centuries.
      Each of the new suites features a harmonious blend of natural wood, leather, regional limestone (which lent the city of Merida its nickname “the white city”), and native pasta tiles traditionally found in henequén haciendas.
      The resort expansion also includes new recreational areas and wellbeing space: an Olympic-length swimming pool, a solarium with a poolside snack bar, a fully equipped fitness centre, and an Angsana Spa for guests to rejuvenate and renew in nature.
      Surrounded by four acres of private gardens and lush vegetation, Hacienda Xcanatun, Angsana Heritage Collection redefines the concept of a luxurious urban resort, where history and tradition meet contemporary sensibilities.
      Riads Marrakech, Angsana Heritage Collection
      Minutes away from the landmark Jemaa el-Fna Square, Riads Marrakech, Angsana Heritage Collection takes pride of place in Marrakech, Morocco, with six riads – large traditional houses built around a central courtyard – totalling 42 rooms and suites showcasing Moroccan architecture and design. 
      The six riads were originally family homes, known as dars, built in the traditional Maghreb habitat. Rectangular doors in varying sizes are built around a central square patio to regulate the temperature of the house during summer and winter. Dars were renamed to the more poetic riads (or “garden” in Arabic) and have remained immutable and quintessential in Morocco’s cityscape.
      Riad Si Said
      Built in the year 1860, Riad Si Said was built by a wealthy Marrakechi family in the Oriental style. The house was inspired by the nearby Bahia Palace, and meticulous effort has been made to preserve the design and décor for centuries. Riad Si Said features an airy courtyard garden with stunning zellij (handmade ceramic mosaic tiles on floors and walls), surrounded by three well-furnished lounges with fireplaces and a library. There are a total of six accommodations in this riad, including 3 suites and an Ambassador Suite, all facing the central courtyard.  Riad Si Said also houses an outdoor pool, roof terrace, and a solarium.
      Riad Blanc
      Named after its sugar-white interior courtyard, the intimate and elegant Riad Blanc was built in the 1970s and is reminiscent of the famous white villages of Andalucia in southern Spain. One of its most distinctive features is the duplex roof terrace – shaped like the sundeck of a cruise ship – along with Andalucian design inspirations of elaborate wrought iron railings and window grills, stained glass windows, potted orange trees, and a turquoise-tiled plunge pool. Riad Blanc features six well-appointed rooms and suites.
      Riad Bab Firdaus
      Guided by the theme of water, a revered natural resource in the deserts of Morocco, Riad Bab Firdaus (meaning “gateway to heaven” in Arabic) was built in the late 19th century, and features a stunning central courtyard ornamented with gabs (picked, honeycomb-shaped plasterwork) and tagguebasts (cornices of sculpted plaster) around its central columns. A discreet light well illuminates the basin fountain, and its vast terrace offers a spectacular view of Atlas Mountains.
      Each of the six rooms and suites are fitted with stucco walls, smooth tadelakt (waterproof lime plaster) and elaborate furnishings, a nod to the Tamazight culture of Southern Morocco. Riad Bab Firdaus also houses a Thai restaurant in the courtyard, a rooftop sun deck and Angsana Spa, which features a hammam with barrel-vaulted brick ceiling to enhance the mystery of the place.
      Riad Tiwaline
      This discreet riad tucked in a 14th century alley in the Riad Zitoune quarter offers complete privacy. Renovated in the 2000s, local architectural details have been preserved such as warm cedar woodwork, wrought iron latticework, and intricate Berber motifs, reminiscent of the towns surrounding Atlas Mountains: Azilal and Imilchil and the Todra canyon. Its five airy rooms decorated with traditional artifacts are certainly a feast for the eyes – also known as tiwaline in Arabic.
      Riad Dar Zaouia
      Meaning “a place of retreat” in Arabic, Riad Dar Zaouia was built in the 19th century on an old zaouia, a religious school. Situated in the heart of the old Medina (walled city), near the historic Bahia Palace and Dar Si Said Museum, it consists of 10 rooms and suites. With a large patio and skylight, Riad Dar Zaouia emanates a serene and convivial vibe, ideal for those seeking an intimate retreat in a refined and relaxed setting.
      Riad Lydines
      Located in the Kasbah, the aristocratic district of the medina, Riad Lydines offers seven stylish rooms opening onto a vast patio, a swimming pool, and a green terrace. Traditional craftsmen worked entirely with their hands to restore this unique house, hence, the name lydines, or “hands”. Riad Lydines is within walking distance to the Royal Palace and the Saadian Tombs.

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      The Gambia Experience and Gambia Tourism Board Collaborate for Destination Gambia

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      The Gambia Tourist Board (GTB) and UK tour operator The Gambia Experience have held successful talks to support increased awareness of Destination Gambia among the UK travel sectors
      The Gambia Experience reports the success of its meeting ahead of the early start of its winter sun programme, which commences on October 13th in time for popular half-term holidays.
      The tour operator reports a 25% growth in capacity this winter and, in meeting with tourism representatives at its Hampshire headquarters, will work on joint initiatives with the GTB to further promote The Gambia’s diverse array of holiday opportunities.
      With a proven track record of success operating flights between London Gatwick and Banjul for 36 years, the tour operator has established itself as the UK’s leading specialist to the destination.
      The GTB’s Director of Tourism, Mr Adama Njie commented:ADVERTISEMENT“The Gambia Tourism Board values collaboration with The Gambia Experience towards the development of Gambian Tourism. This is manifested by the recent visit of the Honourable Minister of Tourism and Culture and the Director General of the Gambia Tourism Board with other tourism stakeholders in which we have mapped out the areas of cooperation with The Gambia Experience to push the demand from the United Kingdom. We are committed to continuing working with The Gambia Experience to further increase air arrivals from the UK which is still our main market.”
      He added: “Another example of our collaboration is the recent participation at the Rutland Global Bird Fair to promote bird watching in The Gambia which is among others a niche product for destination Gambia. I will continue to work with The Gambia Experience towards increasing the number of flights and other activities toward tourism development in The Gambia.”
      The Gambia Experience’s managing director Mr Chris Ayling said:
      “The Gambia is a fantastic destination that offers a huge variety of opportunities to experience unspoilt Africa. It has an incredible offering, with some amazing beachfront hotels and lodges, fascinating wildlife and birding, along with great cultural adventures, and reliably hot weather, all within six hours flying time. You’ll meet some of the friendliest people you’ll ever encounter, and working with the GTB, we’re excited about the season ahead. We’ve added some great new accommodation options to our programme and are offering new birding tours with Springwatch presenter Megan McCubbin along with our award winning guide, Malick Suso, who last month received the Wanderlust World Guide Award for his Wildife and Safari work in The Gambia.”

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      Sky’s the Limit for the World’s Leading Resort Brand 2022

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      Today’s luxury travellers are looking to see and do it all – and to do so exceptionally.  The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience is the ultimate opportunity to travel the world in luxurious style.  All-encompassing itineraries invite families, friends and individuals to discover fascinating locales and cultures, and to see the world’s most popular destinations in new and unexpected ways – all seamlessly planned by Four Seasons experts and delivered with warmth and care.
      Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts was voted World’s Leading Resort Brand 2022 (https://www.worldtravelawards.com/award-worlds-leading-resort-brand-2022) by World Travel Awards 2022.https://www.worldtravelawards.com/profile-716-four-seasons-hotels-and-resorts
      The 2025 Four Seasons Private Jet calendar begins with African Wonders (December 29, 2024 – January 10, 2025), a shorter itinerary with minimal travel across time zones perfect for families travelling with kids and equally enriching for couples and individuals. The itinerary begins in Greece and heads down the African continent with stops in Egypt, Tanzania, Rwanda, Mauritius, Zambia and South Africa, exploring ancient treasures, wildlife experiences and natural wonders along the way.  Asia Unveiled (March 3-18, 2025) offers an exhilarating mix of southeast Asia’s pulsing cities and idyllic islands, and includes immersive experiences in five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These first two itineraries for 2025 are also shorter than most other Four Seasons Private Jet Experience itineraries, at 13 and 16 days, ideal for annual vacations, school breaks and coordinating busy schedules around honeymoon, anniversary or birthday celebrations.

      “Each Four Seasons Private Jet Experience has been crafted with a singular focus on our guests, building itineraries that celebrate the journey as well as the destination, and ensuring that each moment can be personalised to make the experience that much more memorable.” says Alejandro Reynal, Four Seasons President and CEO. “With Four Seasons genuine heart on display each step of the way, there is truly no travel experience quite like it.”Later this year, Four Seasons will roll out additional Private Jet Experience itineraries on the 2025 calendar.A Lounge in the SkyAll itineraries are now aboard the new custom-designed Four Seasons Private Jet that debuted late last year with more space to stretch out, move around and socialize, including in a Lounge in the Sky. This communal area acts as both a social gathering spot, and the stage for on-board programming led by Four Seasons craftspeople ranging from educational presentations to sommelier-led wine tastings, wellness workshops and other surprises. Additional features include spacious bathrooms, and an enhanced in-flight entertainment system, customized App for passengers, and multi-connectivity at each seat.“So many of our past guests have talked about the friendships they made with fellow passengers and the special bonds formed with Four Seasons people,” notes Marc Speichert, Four Seasons Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. “All itineraries allow for real-time customization, personalization based on guest preferences, and plenty of time to enjoy every moment. It’s why our guests love this experience and continue to book with us time and time again.”Every Four Seasons Private Jet itinerary includes all flights aboard the fully customized, 48-seat Airbus A321neo-LR plus luggage coordination and ground transfers; an onboard Four Seasons Executive Chef who creates meals inspired by itinerary destinations and celebrates the unique flavours to be found along the journey; accommodations in Four Seasons hotels and resorts, or, in more remote locations, at establishments carefully selected by Four Seasons; all planned excursions, activities and meals; and 24/7 service by an inflight journey team that includes a concierge, journey physician as well as on-the-ground Four Seasons local experts and dedicated Private Jet Guest Services Manager. ADVERTISEMENT
      Reservations Now Open: The First Two Four Seasons Private Jet Experiences for 2025African Wonders – December 29, 2024 – January 10, 2025Athens – The Pyramids – Serengeti – Mauritius – Rwanda – Victoria Falls – JohannesburgHighlights include dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant on the Athenian Riviera; ringing in the new year in Cairo as an Egyptologist unlocks the mysteries of the Pyramids and Temple of the Sphinx; a bush dinner by lantern light under the watchful eye of Masai warriors that takes guests deep into Serengeti National Park; a catamaran cruise to a secluded cove for a beach barbecue in Mauritius; a hike through the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park that leads to the natural habitat of rare golden monkeys and mountain gorillas, with an introduction to the important work of the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project; a special day trip to awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the world’s largest natural waterfall; and exploration of the modern city of Johannesburg.Asia Unveiled – March 3-18, 2025Tokyo – Bali – Maldives – Hoi An – Bhutan – Angkor Wat – BangkokExplore the Meji-jingu shrine, a forest oasis of 120,000 trees followed by a visit to Senso-ji, the oldest temple in Tokyo; snorkel the crystal clear waters of the protected Baa Atoll and a turtle safari in the Maldives; sample street food while shopping the charming town of Hoi An in central Vietnam; go rafting in the rapids along Bali’s Ayung River and relax in the Sacred River Spa; a spectacular ascent to the Taktsang Palphug Monastery 10,000 feet above sea level in Bhutan; participate in a traditional Buddhist blessing and a private tour of the world’s largest temple complex of Angkor Wat; and a cruise among the stilt houses, floating kitchens and waterside temples of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River.Limited Space Available on 2023-2024 ItinerariesCan’t wait until 2025 to travel with Four Seasons? Limited space is available for Uncharted Discovery (November 30 – December 20, 2023), which includes a four-night expedition aboard a chartered private polar ship to explore Antarctic wildlife and glacier-sculpted landscapes, a private concert by South America’s most prestigious orchestra, the Bogota Philharmonic, stargazing in Costa Rica, and an up-close and personal visit to Iguazú Falls. Space also remains for Ancient Explorer (August 28 – September 20, 2024), which is highlighted by stops at Easter Island, the lost city of Petra in Jordan and a visit to Taormina the picturesque backdrop for season two of the hit TV series, The White Lotus.
      The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience is operated by the industry leader in private jet journeys TCS World Travel, dedicated to delivering immersive, worry-free travel experiences for the globally curious and modern luxury traveller. The aircraft is operated by Titan Airways.

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      Paradise Found: The Best 5 Beaches in Saint Lucia

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      When it comes to the Caribbean’s breathtaking beauty, few destinations can rival the enchanting island of Saint Lucia. With its lush rainforests, towering mountains, and pristine beaches, this tropical gem is a haven for travelers seeking sun, sand, and serenity. For those who dream of lounging on soft, powdery shores with turquoise waters lapping at their feet, Saint Lucia delivers an array of picture-perfect beaches. Here are the best five beaches on this captivating island:
      Reduit Beach:Nestled in Rodney Bay, Reduit Beach is one of Saint Lucia’s most popular and accessible beaches. Boasting a long stretch of golden sand, this family-friendly destination is perfect for sunbathing, beach games, and swimming. The calm, shallow waters provide a safe environment for children to splash around, while water sports enthusiasts can enjoy jet skiing and paddleboarding. After a day of fun in the sun, visitors can explore the nearby dining and shopping options, adding a lively touch to this paradisiacal beach experience.
      Anse Chastanet Beach:For a more secluded and intimate beach encounter, Anse Chastanet is the place to be. Located near Soufrière, this beach offers a serene escape surrounded by lush greenery and the iconic Pitons—two volcanic peaks that form Saint Lucia’s striking landscape. Snorkeling and diving are highly recommended here, as the crystal-clear waters teem with colorful marine life and stunning coral reefs. Anse Chastanet Beach is also home to a luxurious resort of the same name, where visitors can indulge in fine dining and spa treatments with an idyllic ocean backdrop.
      Sugar Beach:Also located in Soufrière, Sugar Beach, known locally as Jalousie Beach, exudes luxury and exclusivity. Flanked by lush hillsides and framed by the majestic Pitons, this crescent-shaped beach is a visual delight. Accessible only by boat or through the exclusive Sugar Beach Resort, the beach maintains an unspoiled allure, offering visitors a sense of tranquility and privacy. The resort offers upscale amenities and water sports, making it an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic escape.
      Pigeon Island National Park:Combining history and natural beauty, Pigeon Island National Park is a unique beach experience. Located near Rodney Bay, this beach is surrounded by historical landmarks and ruins, providing a fascinating glimpse into Saint Lucia’s past. Visitors can explore the well-preserved military ruins, hike to Fort Rodney for panoramic views of the island, and then relax on the beach’s golden sands. Pigeon Island National Park is an excellent destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.ADVERTISEMENTMarigot Bay:Often referred to as the most beautiful bay in the Caribbean, Marigot Bay offers a picturesque and serene setting. Surrounded by lush hills and mangroves, the bay’s turquoise waters provide a tranquil oasis for travelers seeking a laid-back beach experience. The bay is an ideal spot for sailing and yachting, with a marina that welcomes visitors from all over the world. Along the shores, visitors will find boutique shops, upscale resorts, and charming restaurants, creating a refined atmosphere to savor every moment.
      Saint Lucia’s beaches offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking different types of paradise. Whether you prefer a lively family-friendly environment, secluded luxury, historical insights, or a serene natural escape, the island’s beaches have something special for everyone. With its warm hospitality and breathtaking vistas, Saint Lucia is undoubtedly a beach lover’s dream come true. So, pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—paradise awaits on the shores of Saint Lucia.
      The magical island of Saint Lucia will host the World Travel Awards Caribbean & The Americas Gala Ceremony 2023 on 26 August 2023. The leading travel industry figureheads from across the region will attend the red-carpet reception at Sandals Grande St. Lucian.
      Graham Cooke, Founder, World Travel Awards, says: “I am honoured to unveil Saint Lucia as the host of our Caribbean & Americas Gala Ceremony 2023, in this our landmark 30th anniversary. Saint Lucia is helping to spearhead the recovery of travel and tourism in the Caribbean, and I am delighted this captivating island will form a crucial part of our anniversary tour.”He adds: “World Travel Awards has maintained its position as the industry leader for the past 30 years, consistently proving its value as the global benchmark for recognising excellence in travel and tourism. I look forward to joining the most senior travel industry figureheads from across the Caribbean and The Americas for what promises to be a fabulous event, acknowledging those organisations spearheading the growth of the region’s travel and tourism sector.”

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      DER Touristik and Lufthansa Group Partner to Expand Sustainable Aviation Fuel Usage in Tourism

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      In order to meet the challenges in the area of climate and environmental protection, DER Touristik and the Lufthansa Group are expanding their cooperation: As part of a strategic partnership, DER Touristik is the first major tour operator to purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) from the Lufthansa Group. This consists of biogenic residues such as used cooking oils and reduces CO₂ emissions by around 80 percent compared to conventional kerosene. With the SAF it has purchased, DER Touristik will offer its guests more climate-friendly air travel using SAF at no extra charge. The costs for the SAF are covered by the tour operator.
      Specifically, DER Touristik uses the SAF purchased from the Lufthansa Group to improve the carbon footprint of selected products. These tours will be presented in the DERTOUR Magalog – a mixture of magazine and catalog – to be published in September 2023 with the title “Conscious Travel”. For example, an SAF share of 20 percent will be fed into the flight system for the Lufthansa flights of the 2024 round trips presented in the Magalog. This will reduce the passenger’s individual flight-related CO₂ emissions. These round trips include two individual DERTOUR trips to Ireland, where guests travel locally by public transportation, as well as five guided small-group trips to Albena on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, Menorca, Andalusia, Madeira, and Lisbon and Porto. By the end of 2024, selected Lufthansa Group flights booked in addition to one of the sustainably certified hotels in the new DERTOUR Magalog will also feed 20 percent SAF into the flight system at DER Touristik’s expense. In addition, REWE Reisen in Germany and Billa Reisen in Austria will each put together two more sustainable vacation offers with Lufthansa Group flights in Europe in the fall of 2023.
      As part of the strategic partnership between DER Touristik and the Lufthansa Group, various other measures are also planned that will sensitize vacationers and travel agency experts to the topic of SAF and make it tangible for them, including an expert study trip to Ireland for travel agencies. Last spring, the Lufthansa Group and DER Touristik had already jointly launched more sustainable travel offers in an initial test run.
      A crucial key to more sustainable flying
      “We are very pleased to have DER Touristik as a cooperation partner at our side who is committed to the sustainable transformation of the travel industry, who is breaking new ground together with us and who is sensitizing its customers to forward-looking travel offers,” says Frank Naeve, Senior Vice President Global Markets & Stations Lufthansa Group. “With our airlines, we want to connect people, cultures and economies in the most sustainable way possible, reduce the environmental impact of flying and use required resources as efficiently as possible. The use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel is a crucial key to more sustainable flying in this regard.”ADVERTISEMENT“Our goal is to make tourism more climate-friendly and reduce emissions from vacation travel. A key lever in this is flying,” explains Dr. Ingo Burmester, CEO DER Touristik Central Europe. “At the same time, we are investing in the shift toward a lower-emission airline industry with our commitment. As a tour operator and flight broker, we see it as our responsibility to get involved in this area. As an industry, we can only achieve change by joining forces and standing shoulder to shoulder with long-standing, trustworthy partners such as the Lufthansa Group.”
      The Lufthansa Group has set itself ambitious climate protection goals and aims to achieve a neutral CO₂ balance by 2050. Already by 2030, the Lufthansa Group wants to halve its net CO₂ emissions compared to 2019 through reduction and compensation measures. The reduction target until 2030 was validated by the independent Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) in August 2022. The Lufthansa Group was the first airline group in Europe with a science-based CO₂ reduction target in line with the goals of the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. For effective climate protection, the Lufthansa Group is focusing in particular on accelerated fleet modernization, the use of SAF, the continuous optimization of flight operations, and offers for its private travelers and corporate customers to make a flight or the transport of cargo more sustainable. In addition, the Lufthansa Group has been actively supporting global climate and weather research for many years.

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