A Celebration Rooted in Ancient Traditions Halloween in Ireland is a unique experience, steeped in traditions that connect us to our ancient ancestors. As the long, dark nights settle over the misty Irish landscape, it’s easy to envision how the flickering shadows of firelight once ignited the spirit of Halloween over two millennia ago. This festive occasion, originally known as Samhain, marked the end of the harvest season and the arrival of winter, with roots deeply embedded in ancient Celtic practices. For those uncertain about Halloween’s Irish origins, experts shed light on eight enduring customs and traditions that illustrate how…
Travel & Tourism
The NEOM Board of Directors has officially opened Sindalah, a new luxury travel destination and the first physical showcase of NEOM’s bold vision. Announced by His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Chairman of the NEOM Board, Sindalah’s debut marks a major milestone in the Kingdom’s development ambitions under Saudi Vision 2030, with the island serving as a unique gateway to the Red Sea. Transforming Vision into Reality Sindalah’s creation involved a remarkable two-year effort, with over 30,000 workers and 60 subcontractors collaborating across four local contracting partners. This ambitious project reflects NEOM’s dedication to delivering transformative tourism…
Yunnan Welcomes International Travelers Yunnan Province is now more accessible than ever, thanks to the recent expansion of China’s 144-hour visa-free transit policy. This initiative enables travellers from 54 countries to discover the varied landscapes and vibrant cultures of Yunnan without the inconvenience of applying for a visa. Travelers can enter through major points such as Kunming Changshui International Airport, Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, and Mohan Railway Port, as long as they possess valid international travel documents and onward tickets within the designated 144-hour timeframe. A Treasure Trove of Natural Wonders The campaign, titled “Yunnan: A Many-Splendored Life,” highlights the…
On September 29, 2024, the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower reached a remarkable milestone by welcoming its 100 millionth visitor, reinforcing its status as a prominent symbol of Shanghai’s skyline and a major attraction in the realm of global tourism. This achievement not only highlights the enduring appeal of the landmark but also underscores Shanghai’s position as a top-tier destination on the international tourism stage. The honour of being the 100 millionth visitor went to Peter Baur, a retired math and physics teacher from Germany. Baur received a commemorative certificate from Deputy Mayor Liu Duo and a miniature replica of the…
Sphere Entertainment Co. has officially partnered with the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) to introduce the world’s second Sphere venue in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This state-of-the-art entertainment venue is anticipated to be a landmark addition to the vibrant capital, significantly enhancing the entertainment landscape for residents and visitors alike. Pioneering a New Entertainment Era “The vision for Sphere has always encompassed a global network of venues, and this announcement represents a pivotal moment in that journey,” stated James L. Dolan, Executive Chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment. “Sphere is transforming live entertainment, and…
Ian Jennings, widely known as ‘The Travel Insurance Expert,’ is advising young adventurers and their families to be ‘SMART’ about travel insurance, ensuring they have thorough protection before embarking on backpacking trips this autumn. With over 30 years of experience, including his own backpacking journey, Ian encourages travellers to carefully review their insurance policies, making sure there are no gaps that could leave them vulnerable while abroad. In addition to his industry expertise, Ian is the founder of Explorer Travel Insurance, established in 2011. He has recently introduced the ‘SMART Backpacker Checklist,’ a free downloadable guide designed to assist backpackers…
The 2024 “Unique Landscape in Jiangxi” Cultural and Tourism Promotion Month officially launched in the Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions (SAR) on September 3. The event began with a vibrant ceremony and promotional activities in Hong Kong SAR, followed by a similar event in Macao SAR on September 5. These events showcased Jiangxi’s rich tourism offerings, including stunning natural landscapes, ceramic artistry, Hakka heritage, and more. Unique Landscape in Jiangxi The initiative sought to strengthen the “Unique Landscape in Jiangxi” brand, inviting visitors from Hong Kong and Macao to discover the province’s breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage. By…
Heart Aerospace, a leading Swedish innovator in hybrid-electric aviation, has unveiled its first full-scale demonstrator, marking a major advancement in the development of its 30-seat regional hybrid-electric aircraft, the ES-30. In-House Innovation Drives Development Almost entirely constructed within Heart Aerospace’s own Gothenburg facility, the new demonstrator embodies the company’s dual focus on advancing both aircraft design and the production processes that will shape the future of sustainable aviation. By controlling these aspects in-house, the company is able to innovate more rapidly and efficiently. Anders Forslund, co-founder and CEO of Heart Aerospace, explains: “The aerospace industry is entering a new era,…
A Visionary Resort in the South Malé Atoll SH Hotels & Resorts, helmed by Barry Sternlicht, Chairman and CEO of Starwood Capital Group, has unveiled plans to launch the Baccarat Hotel & Residences Maldives in 2027. This groundbreaking project will span over 111 acres across five interconnected islands in the South Malé Atoll, promising an unparalleled level of luxury in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. The development will set new standards for opulence and sophistication, integrating seamlessly into the pristine environment of the Maldives. A Fusion of Elegance and Modern Sophistication Barry Sternlicht shared his excitement about the…
From Snowboarding with a World Champion to Leading the Mickey & Friends Street Celebration, Klook Gives You the Chance to Experience the Extraordinary—All for Free! Ever dreamed of being the grand marshal at the Mickey & Friends Street Celebration? Or maybe you’ve dreamed of carving up the slopes with a World Champion snowboarder or swimming with whale sharks beneath the stars on a secluded island. Klook, the leading online travel and experiences platform, is offering a series of free, exclusive ‘Money Can’t Buy Experiences’ as part of its 10th anniversary celebrations! Unforgettable Adventures, No Cost Involved As the cost of…