FOOD & DRINK, ARTS & CULTURE, LIFE & TRAVEL
Nestled on Heraklion’s cliffside, this resort’s prime location makes it an ideal base for families travelling with toddlers and young children, offering access to a private beach just steps away and some of Crete’s best tourism offerings at arm’s length.
In response to the growing demand for wellness experiences among travellers, Majestic Whale Encounters is offering several unique whale-swimming tours with a wellness twist to cater to this emerging travel trend. Wellness tourism has rapidly become one of the fastest-growing segments in the tourism industry, now valued at £506 billion globally according to the Global Wellness Institute. This surge in popularity mirrors a global shift towards prioritising health, well-being, and experiential travel, with travellers increasingly seeking wellness experiences. Located in the picturesque tropical islands of Tonga, Majestic Whale Encounters offers numerous wellness and off-the-grid tours that enable guests to slow down and connect with their inner selves amidst Tonga’s tranquil scenery. Whales and Wellness Tours Majestic’s Whales and Wellness tours offer an immersive escape to a secluded eco-retreat on the scenic island of U’oleva in Tonga. Set along the eastern barrier reef of Ha’apai, guests embark on a remarkable journey, spending five days swimming alongside majestic humpback whales while relishing moments of relaxation and wellness onshore. When not exploring the underwater world, guests can engage in yoga sessions and moments of quiet reflection to disconnect from the hectic pace of daily life, fostering a profound connection with themselves and the surrounding nature. For those seeking a bit more activity, kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkelling are also available. Female-only Whales and Wellness tours are an option as well. Tours run during September and October. Off-The-Grid Tours Majestic Whale Encounters’ Off-The-Grid tours offer a week-long retreat on the remote Tongan island of U’oleva, providing a unique opportunity… Read More
In the realm of Greek mythology, the essence of hospitality finds its embodiment in the revered goddess Hestia. Kivotos are bringing it back.
Príncipe di Salina, a luxurious haven nestled amidst the lush greenery of Salina—a Mediterranean gem off Sicily’s coast—proudly announces the completion of its Grande Pool Renovation, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in refined elegance and authentic Mediterranean charm. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Principe di Salina (@principedisalina) More than just a destination, Principe di Salina embodies a soulful sanctuary, seamlessly blending the timeless allure of Sicilian tradition with contemporary sophistication. Perched upon the tranquil remnants of an ancient volcano, our boutique hotel is a testament to the rich heritage and natural beauty of Salina, offering guests an immersive journey into the heart of Italian culture. As the sun-kissed shores of Salina beckon, Principe di Salina unveils its renewed Grande Pool, a masterful fusion of architectural innovation and local craftsmanship. Spearheaded by the visionary designs of Linea T architect Salvo Terranova, the renovation introduces two expansive open-space suites atop the main edifice, epitomising the essence of private Aeolian Mediterranean living. Complementing this, the pool deck undergoes a metamorphosis, now exuding a vibrant social ambiance, courtesy of a new pool bar and enhanced convivial spaces. In homage to Salina’s storied past and pristine landscapes, the pool renovation pays tribute to sustainability, utilising locally sourced materials such as Sicilian rocks from Catania and light lava stones, fostering an intimate connection with the island’s rugged terrain. The addition of Sicilian white ceramics accentuates the bar area, infusing the atmosphere with a touch of Mediterranean allure, while the aquamarine hues of the Aeolian Sea are evoked… Read More
LA Pride returns, promising an incredible lineup of events, including LA Pride in the Park headlined by Ricky Martin, the LA Pride Parade & Block Party on Hollywood Boulevard, LGBTQ+ Pride Night at Dodger Stadium and PRIDE is Universal. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Discover Los Angeles (@discoverla) Stay & Slay: LA Tourism Offers Exclusive Hotel Deals for LA Pride Attendees Los Angeles Tourism will join the 54th annual LA Pride festivities this June through its support of the organization and its annual lineup of events. LA Pride stands as one of the largest Pride celebrations in the United States and the world. Throughout LA Pride, local Angelenos and travellers can secure a nearby hotel with the best available rates and enjoy welcome amenities, discounts, and more at select properties. “LA Pride beautifully captures the spirit of our City of Angels with its focus on unity, inclusivity, and self-expression,” said Adam Burke, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board. “We are incredibly proud to invite both our fellow Angelenos as well as travelers from around the world to join us in celebrating our LGBTQ+ community.” LA Pride in the Park will take place on Saturday, June 8, 2024, across more than 20 acres of lush green space at LA State Historic Park. The event will feature dozens of local and LGBTQ+ vendors, a huge variety of food & beverage, beer gardens, and a special lineup. The global icon Ricky Martin will headline LA Pride in the Park,… Read More
The Maldives, an archipelago of 26 atolls scattered in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, is a dream destination for many travellers. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, it offers an unparalleled escape into nature’s lap. Among its spectacular islands, Nova Maldives stands out as a beacon of eco-conscious luxury, dedicated to preserving the ocean’s delicate ecosystem. Nova Maldives, cocooned on its own island in the South Ari Atoll, provides a private and eco-friendly island experience. This resort invites guests to rediscover their inner selves and foster meaningful connections with nature and others amidst a soft-luxury setting. Surrounded by a vibrant marine ecosystem, Nova is renowned for its spellbinding marine experiences, offering unique opportunities to watch whale sharks and manta rays in their natural habitat from over 30 spotting points. In celebration of World Ocean Day, Nova Maldives has announced a lineup of activities spearheaded by Afaa Abdulla, one of the Maldives’ few female diving instructors and a visionary PADI Professional dedicated to female empowerment, conservation, and environmental awareness. Afaa, a remarkable 22-year-old conservationist, has a deep connection to the ocean, having grown up on a northern Maldivian island. Trained under the esteemed Zoona Naseem, the Maldives’ first female PADI Course Director, Afaa aims to share her profound love for the ocean with travellers who are captivated by the sea’s allure. From June 6th to June 9th, Nova Maldives will host thematic briefings, presentations, and guided activities to educate guests on the region’s ecology. Topics include the biology of whale… Read More
Leading the list is Warsaw, Poland, which has been ranked first thanks to its lack of tourist tax, the cheapest hotel prices and one-day public transport tickets!
Over the past half-decade, Airbnb has captivated travelers with over 90 unique stays and experiences inspired by iconic landmarks like Barbie’s Malibu DreamHouse, the Home Alone house, and Shrek’s Swamp. Today marks a new chapter in Airbnb’s story as they introduce Icons, a groundbreaking category of exceptional experiences hosted by luminaries from the realms of music, film, television, art, sports, and beyond. Unveiling the First 11 Icons Prepare to step into a realm where dreams converge with reality as Airbnb presents the inaugural 11 Icons, each promising an unparalleled adventure: Enhancements for Travelers and Hosts In addition to these awe-inspiring experiences, Airbnb is rolling out enhancements to elevate the guest and host experiences: For more details on the latest offerings and updates from Airbnb, visit the official announcement. Dive into a world of unparalleled experiences with Icons, where every adventure is an opportunity to unlock extraordinary moments that linger in your memory forever. Get a taste of it at the Airbnb site or app
Renaissance Tours are Australia’s leading provider of special interest and cultural excursions, you know the kind; they build trips around ancient things. And this year, they’re delighted to announce a winter and spring tours program, offering unprecedented access to some of the world’s most inaccessible and cherished destinations. With a focus on unique encounters and expert insights, travellers will have the opportunity to explore vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and historic sites across both domestic and international tours. Among the highlights is the “Lands of the Saltwater People” tour led by the esteemed Bundjalung curator, artist, and activist Djon Mundine OAM. This August, participants will be immersed in the rich art and culture of Australia’s Top End, enjoying exclusive access to events such as the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair and the Yirrkala in northeast Arnhem Land. For those intrigued by ancient civilizations and landscapes, September brings “A Road Less Travelled” with archaeologist Iain Shearer. This expansive 19-day adventure through Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan will uncover the region’s breathtaking scenery, historic religious art, and groundbreaking archaeological sites. Adventurers can also look forward to exploring Oman’s scenic beauty and historical depth on “The Frankincense Route” tour this November, led by renowned scholar Dr. Alex McKay. From Muscat’s vibrant capital to the serene desert of Wahiba Sands and beyond, this 15-day tour promises an unforgettable blend of art, architecture, and heritage. Additional exciting opportunities include traversing the ancient and sacred landscapes of Mungo and Mutawintji National Parks, experiencing the tranquil gardens of Japan from Hokkaido to northern Honshu, and… Read More
The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, celebrated for sparking the vibrant spirit of Memphis in its annual display of culinary mastery, has unveiled an enthralling lineup of entertainment and educational sessions set to take Liberty Park by storm from May 15-18, 2024. Now in its 46th year, the contest promises an even richer experience, marked by nightly entertainment on the Cattlemen’s Main Stage featuring Barbecue Sauce Wrestling, performances by Marcy Playground, Ingram Hill, and DJ MicTee from K97. The revered contest, known for gathering the crème de la crème of barbecue enthusiasts, expands its offerings with the introduction of expert-led grilling demonstrations at The Home Depot Outdoor Kitchen. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to learn from barbecue luminaries such as Moe Cason and Chris Lilly, ensuring a blend of savory learning experiences with the fun of sampling. Adding to the allure, The McCormick Demo Stage and The Cooker Caravan with Heath Riles BBQ will offer culinary tips and behind-the-scenes access to competition teams, while The Kingsford Tour of Champions and BBQ Alley promise interactive tasting adventures. The VIPit Experience elevates the barbecue pilgrimage to luxury, allowing aficionados an exclusive peek into the world of competitive barbecue guided by industry giants. Memphis in May continues to champion the future of barbecue, with The Future of Q and partnership efforts highlighting the talents of junior pitmasters and aspiring chefs from the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis. These initiatives underscore the event’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of barbecue greats while celebrating the rich… Read More
