Archiv für den Monat Juni 2020

Exotic-Destinations, News

Resumption of Air Tahiti Nui commercial flights

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Air Tahiti Nui is pleased to announce the official resumption of its commercial flights after the last territorial continuity flight departing from Paris-CDG, scheduled on July 2, 2020.
First and foremost, Air Tahiti Nui and its teams wish to thank the customers and partners who supported us during this difficult time and who are waiting to be able to get back to their loved ones, restart their activities and welcome travelers to our islands again.
This resumption will be gradual and will be subject to several conditions relating to health measures, to the reopening of some borders and to travel demands, which will inevitably be affected by this crisis.

Papeete – Paris – Papeete route:

Conditions of entry to the United States being still uncertain, the flights Papeete Paris Papeete scheduled will finally be operated via Vancouver instead of Los Angeles throughout the month of July.
– Flights from Papeete are scheduled on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 23.50 p.m. local time, transit via Vancouver.
– Flights from Paris-CDG are scheduled on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 12.05 p.m. local time, transit via Vancouver.

From July 13, there will be an additional frequency on Tuesday for Papeete Paris route and on Monday for Paris Papeete route, bringing the number of frequencies to 5 flights per week.

Travelers must obtain an electronic travel authorization (AVE) to be able to transit to Vancouver (YVR). The authorization request must be made at the earliest before departure. To apply for ETA, click here.

Papeete – Los Angeles – Papeete route:

From July 14, Air Tahiti Nui will operate 3 to 4 flights per week to and from Los Angeles.

Papeete – Auckland – Papeete route:

To date, the flights scheduled on July on this route are cancelled. The reopening of this route is subject to the agreement of the New Zealand government. Air Tahiti Nui invites you to regularly consult its website in order to learn about the latest news.
 
Papeete – Tokyo – Papeete route:

To date, the flights scheduled on July, August and September on this route are cancelled. Air Tahiti Nui and its partners are examining a possible resumption of flights after this date.

For a more focused schedule on flights to and from our US hub, Los Angeles (LAXPPT; PPTLAX; LAXCDG; CDGLAX), please visiting the following webpage:

https://www.airtahitinui.com/us-en/flash-french-polynesia-open-july-15th-air-tahiti-nui-lax-flights-july-16th

Entry requirements in French Polynesia

In these global epidemic circumstances, each country is adopting measures aimed at protecting its residents and its visitors. Please make sure to stay informed and to regularly inquire about the entry and return requirements for each of the countries you will visit.

Entering French Polynesia:

The current regulations as established by the government of French Polynesia, for every traveler:

  • Carry out a COVID-19 test (RT-PCR) within 72 hours (3 days) before the departure of the flight or provide a COVID-19 immunity certificate.
  • Fill in an information sheet on your itinerary, your sworn statement about respecting barrier gestures and reporting to the authorities of any symptom of COVID19 that may occur during your stay (cough, fever, difficulty to breathe, loss of taste, loss of smell). 
  • Subject yourself to the randomized test which may be imposed by the health authorities of French Polynesia during your stay.
  • Have travel insurance covering Covid-19 expenses or sign a declaration to personally assume all expenses related to cost of care including hospitalization, confinement, or repatriation, should the visitor fall ill during their stay

Here is a link to the exact entry requirements on the site of Tahiti Tourisme: https://tahititourisme.com/en-us/covid-19/?

In the event of a positive COVID-19 test, and therefore the customers being unable to complete their journey, Air Tahiti Nui will allow a free change of date or full refund.

The company will deny boarding to passengers with a valid reservation and ticket if they do not comply with the applicable health rules imposed.

Exotic-Destinations, News

RAS AL KHAIMAH BECOMES THE FIRST CITY IN THE WORLD TO BE CERTIFIED AS SAFE BY BUREAU VERITAS AND THE FIRST EMIRATE TO RECEIVE THE WORLD TRAVEL AND TOURISM COUNCIL (WTTC) SAFE TRAVELS STAMP

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  • As travel emerges from lockdown, Ras Al Khaimah leads the way in global hygiene safety standards.
  • Ras Al Khaimah was confirmed as the first city and Emirate in the world to receive the prestigious ‘Safeguard Assurance’ Label from Bureau Veritas for industry-wide health and safety protocols.
  • The 50,000 sqft Al Hamra International Exhibition and Conference Center is the only convention and meeting space in the Middle East to be Bureau Veritas certified.

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) is delighted to announce its certification as an officially safe city, according to the stringent standards demanded by Bureau Veritas, the global leader in testing, inspection and certification services.

The Emirate, the northernmost in the UAE, is the first destination in the Middle East to be awarded the prestigious Safeguard Assurance Label guaranteeing that heightened safety standards, training and hygiene protocols are in place. 

Through a strategic partnership with Bureau Veritas, RAKTDA has implemented pioneering health, safety and hygiene measures across all Ras Al Khaimah hotels to eliminate risk for employees and guests and thus ensure complete peace of mind.

In addition, the 50,000 square foot Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Center is now the only such venue in the Middle East to achieve Bureau Veritas certification.

This first milestone on the new roadmap has been reached as Ras Al Khaimah becomes the first Middle Eastern City and first Emirate in UAE to receive the World Travel and Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Safe Travels Stamp – an accreditation developed for the global travel and tourism industry to address the challenges presented by COVID-19 and similar outbreaks.

Developed in collaboration with WTTC members, leading industry associations and governments, the Safe Travels Stamp aims to facilitate “a future of travel which is safe, secure, seamless” while providing “an authentic and meaningful experience to the traveller across the journey”.

The global protocols follow the current guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and will continue to be updated as new information about COVID-19 becomes available. 

Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, comments, “As travel starts to resume, our role as a tourism development authority is to ensure that robust measures are in place to protect the health and safety of our visitors and provide the peace of mind they need for a truly well-deserved holiday. Our goal is for Ras Al Khaimah to set the global benchmark for post-pandemic travel safety and to set the standards to which all other destinations will aspire. We are immensely proud to be the first destination in the world to be certified as safe by Bureau Veritas and receive the WTTC safe travels stamp and believe it will go a long way to restore confidence and bring tourists back to Ras Al Khaimah. It also validates the huge efforts of our hospitality partners who are focused on delivering the highest global safety standards, today and every day, as we navigate this new normal for the industry.”   

He added: “WTTC is a very important partner for RAKTDA and one we wholeheartedly support in its efforts to restart and speed up the recovery of the sector in the wake of COVID-19.  The WTTC Safe Travels Stamp is an important vehicle to demonstrate alignment with essential safety protocols of the highest level and we are delighted that we can reassure visitors that Ras Al Khaimah meets these global standards.”

About Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is the northernmost of the seven Emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. It is known for its rich history, dating back 7,000 years, and diverse landscape, from 64km of pristine beaches, to untamed deserts and a dramatic mountain backdrop. The Emirate is home to Jebel Jais – highest peak in the UAE at 6,345 feet meters and location of the world’s longest zip line, at 1.75 miles.

Ras Al Khaimah is also centrally located at the modern crossroad between Europe, Asia and Africa, with one third of the world’s population within four hour’s flying time, making it an ideal location for businesses to expand into the UAE, the Middle East and Africa and beyond. The World Bank’s Doing Business report ranks Ras Al Khaimah 30th out of 190 economies for ease of doing business.

At the Emirate’s economic heart lies multiple major companies and diverse sectoral interests, including manufacturing, energy and tourism. Industry is supported by a state-of-the-art infrastructure, including ultra-modern business facilities, world-class hotels and tourist attractions.

Ras Al Khaimah is also a cultural melting pot with a growing population, currently at about 375,000, 31% of which is local Emirati. It is considered an extremely safe place to live, consistently ranked highly in global surveys.

With year-round sunshine, straightforward business set-up and a competitive and affordable cost of living, Ras Al Khaimah is the informed choice for business, lifestyle and travel.

visitrasalkhaimah.com

Exotic-Destinations, News

Kensho Psarou Proudly Welcomes Guests Back to Paradise in Mykonos

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Kenshō Psarou, the hotel found glistening on the golden sands of Mykonos’ world-renowned Psarou beach, cannot wait to welcome back guests and share its exclusive home with everyone again from July 2nd.

For so long, the wonders of Mykonos have gone unloved with everyone at home, and the jewel in the island’s crown has been missing: You. But with both Greece being one of the safest places in Europe and several countries giving the green light for travel, Kenshō Psarou is opening; and it’s the perfect place to relax and release the anxieties of the last few months. The hotel will fulfil your every need and keep you completely safe throughout your stay.

Just one look at the complex tells you why so many people are eagerly awaiting Kenshō Psarou’s opening. Slate and stone combine with local wood and wicker to complement the masterful Aegean architecture seen throughout the hotel. Every suite is unique, each telling its own story with original artwork and designer furniture. This individuality that defines each suite allows you to personalise your stay, as you can choose from an array of different sized rooms with all kinds of sea views and either a hot tub or a plunge pool, depending on your preference.

Furthermore, Kenshō Psarou Beach Restaurant & Bar provides you with one of Mykonos’ most magical gastronomic experiences courtesy of Mykonian Chef Hippocrates Anagnostelis, whose reinvention of Mediterranean cuisine by infusing Japanese and Peruvian flavours makes his seafood dishes tantalise your taste buds in ways you’ve never conceived.

While relaxation in Kenshō Psarou is euphoric, you hardly need to move far to feel the sand between your toes and marvel at the blue expanse on a sun lounger, with a cocktail from the beach bar. And Kenshō’s spa indulges you with VIP services, where therapeutic treatments, such as the Spa Water Pod and countless decadent massages, align your body and mind in perfect harmony. 

However, beyond simply providing you with an unforgettable holiday, Kenshō Psarou is committed to ensuring your health and safety while you enjoy a worry-free experience. The hotel has prepared tirelessly to modify their operational procedures to align with the guidelines provided by the World Health Organization and the Greek health authorities.

Kenshō Psarou is fully prepared to invite you to paradise once again, bringing you a holiday of pure luxury, total relaxation and absolute safety after these difficult months. Mykonos hasn’t been the same without you. Welcome back!

To find out more and book your stay visit

www.kenshomykonos.com/kensho-psarou/

About Kenshō Psarou:

Kenshō Psarou is a 5-star boutique hotel on the world-famous Psarou Beach in Mykonos. Comprising 30 luxury suites, a chic bar furnished by distinguished designers, a culinary experience like no other and an ethereal spa, the hotel resets the bar for lavish hospitality. The hotel is a mere 10’ drive from Mykonos airport, and private transfers can be booked for arrival.

Exotic-Destinations

Top 10 destinații în tendințe pentru iarnă 2020/21

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Aceste destinații se află în vârful listei pentru călătorii individuale

Cu cât temperaturile sunt mai scăzute, cu atât se îndepărtează călătorii mai mult de ca. Fie că schiăm în Munții Stâncoși sau ne încărcăm cu soare în Africa de Sud, unele destinații sunt considerate acum adevărate clasice printre vacanțele de iarnă. Dar mai ales călătorii individuali își repetă rar destinația, așa că, în acest an, noi destinații neobișnuite apar printre primele opțiuni. Ghidați după  rezervările celor mai mari agentii de turism, vă prezentăm cele mai populare destinații pentru excursii individuale în sezonul rece:

Noile destinații călduroase pe timp de iarnă

Costa Rica: plaje frumoase și mult aur

Costa Rica așteaptă cu nerăbdare mult mai mulț icălători în timpul iernii. Iubitorii de natură se bucură de multe parcuri naționale, vulcani și de o floră și faună diversă. Țara se angajează să facă turismul durabil cu diverse proiecte și măsuri. De exemplu, 43 de plaje au primit premiul „Steagul Albastru” pentru utilizare durabilă. În Capitală, San Jose, așteaptă Muzeul Aurului cu o colecție cuprinzătoare de aur și bijuterii.

Maroc: orașe și munți imperiali

Unul dintre câștigătorii sezonului de iarnă este Maroc, țara vecină Spaniei, de pe continentul african. Țara atrage iarna cu temperaturi plăcute, plajele din jurul Agadir promit un soare perfect. Într-o călătorie în munții provinciei Agadir-Ida-OuTanane, călătorii vor descoperi peisajul divers, de exemplu cheile spectaculoase cu palmieri de curmale. Din Marrakech – lângă Fès, Meknès și Rabat, unul dintre orașele imperiale – nu trebuie ratată o călătorie în Munții Atlas.

Mexic: cactus, plajă și cultul Maya

Cea mai mare țară din America Centrală oferă tuturor tipurilor de călători o experiență perfectă de vacanță. Dacă sunteți în căutarea plajei, veți găsi un repertoriu imens pe Peninsula Yucatan. Pe lângă faimoasele stațiuni de plajă din Cancún și Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo este unul dintre cele mai populare locuri cu temperaturi confortabile. Cu mașina, sunt ușoraccesibile ruinele Maya. Merită, de asemenea, un drum în vestul țării, de-a lungul coastei Pacificului. Cu excursii, intri în interiorul variat al țării, cu faimosul peisaj al străzilor căptușite de cactus.

Namibia: deșert, animale sălbatice și stele

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Namibia este destinația perfectă pentru călătorii individuali cărora le place să se îndepărteze de traficul rutier normal. Deșertul Namib este un El Dorado pentru fotografii de animale sălbatice. Impresionează prin reptile, antilope și struți – și oferă contraste de culoare unice cu nisipul roșiatic. Pe lângă Caprivi Strip și parcurile naționale, diverse rezervații mai mici și rezervații naturale promit experiențe speciale. Un alt punct de reper este observatorul, situat la 380 de kilometri de Windhoek. Aici puteți observa o lume altfel dificil de văzut.

Clasic 2020/21: actualele favorite printre destinațiile clasice de iarnă

Australia: Outback și coastă spectaculoasă

Kangaroo at Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park

Un parcurs prin australianul Outback este considerat de mulți drept o vacanță de vis absolută. De exemplu, al cincilea continent a fost una dintre cele mai populare destinații de iarnă de ani buni, tendința continuând în iarna anului 2019/2020. Turul prin deșert spre Uluru este o experiență specială. La fel de spectaculos este și drumul de-a lungul coastei din Queensland spre Great Barrier Reef și Insulele Whitsunday.

Portugalia: până în cel mai vestic punct al Europei

Cu o mașina de închiriat se poate ajunge cu ușurință chiar și în cele mai îndepărtate părți ale țării și pe plajele mai puțin frecventate.O excursie de-a lungul coastei Atlanticului din Lisabona promite o panoramă specială. O perspectivă asupra florei și faunei țării promite Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês, situat în nord. Există și un superlativ în Portugalia, deoarece în Cabo de Roca, cel mai vestic punct al Europei îi așteaptă pe călători.

Africa de Sud: unde iarna este vară

Pentru călătorii care doresc să se bucure de senzația de vară pe timp de iarnă, Africa de Sud este pe listă. Destinația este, în special pentru fanii de mașini, o destinație de vis. Pentru distanțe lungi și vizita la safari sau parc național, o mașină de închiriat este cel mai bun mijloc de transport. Așa se face căutarea pentru Big Five în parcuri, după propriile dorințe și idei.

SUA: parcuri tematice și Caraibe

Vara și soarele așteaptă călătorii în lunile de iarnă în sudul SUA. În Florida, călătorii individuali închiriază o mașină pentru a vizita parcurile tematice din zonele umede din jurul Orlando. Chiar și Cape Canaveral sau Golful Tampa sunt doar la o pasă distanță. Unic este drumul de la Miami pe cheile din Florida spre cheia vestică a Caraibelor. Există, de asemenea, o vară în iarnă pe coasta de vest, San Diego oferind aproximativ 300 de zile de vară pe an. Înfometații de soare se bucură pe plajele din Pacific.

Spania: perioadă de repaus într-un climat mediteranean blând

A doua destinație europeană de iarnă printre destinațiile clasice este Spania. Țara emite un calm în lunile cele mai răcoroase, care rămâne necunoscut călătorilorpe timpul verii. Printre insule, Majorca și Tenerife sunt deosebit de populare, în timp ce Malaga este foarte populară ca destinație pe continent. Cu temperaturi blânde, tapas și vin bun, călătorii scapă de iarnă, chiar și fără a părăsi Europa.

Exotic-Destinations, Moments, News

AMAALA Selects Mirage-Inspired Airport Design to Take Ultra-Luxury Destination to New Heights

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The airport takes inspiration from its dramatic desert environment and will accommodate one million travellers per year on completion

AMAALA, the ultra-luxury destination located along Saudi Arabia’s northwestern coast, has unveiled plans for a new international airport, with a design inspired by the optical illusion of a desert mirage.

The terminal and control tower design was conceptualised by UK-based architectural and design firm Foster + Partners, while the airport master plan was designed by Egis, an international consultancy and engineering group. It will incorporate unique design practices, drawing inspiration from its location. The airport is due for completion in 2023 and is estimated to accommodate one million travellers per year once it officially opens.

Commenting on the announcement of the new international airport, the Chief Executive Officer of AMAALA, Nicholas Naples, said: “A gateway to AMAALA, visitors will be greeted by personalised experiences from the moment they step off the plane. From design to personalisation, this will be no ordinary airport. Immersed in the spirit of AMAALA, the airport will create an environment that embodies the philosophy of the destination beyond. This will be a unique space that personifies luxury and marks the start of memorable experiences for the world’s most discerning guests. We are delighted to work with Foster + Partners and Egis on this project.”

On approaching the airport, travellers will see stunning land art from the air. Entering the terminal, visitors will be greeted with a sleek mirrored edifice rising from the desert. The structure takes its inspiration from the surrounding environment, resulting in a mesmerising mirage effect. A spacious courtyard will anchor the terminal and will be complemented by contemporary interiors complete with unique artwork and tailored experiences. The airport will reflect AMAALA’s ultra-luxury hospitality spirit, providing an exclusive private-club experience perfectly encapsulating AMAALA’s pillars of art and culture; wellness and sport; and sea, sun, and lifestyle.

Among the list of amenities provided by the airport are climate-controlled hangars that will be available for private jets as well as a ground transfer service that is accessible from inside the arrival hangar.

Senior Executive Partner of Foster + Partners, Gerard Evenden, said, “Responding to the surrounding landscape, the terminal building will form an exclusive gateway to the AMAALA resort. The passenger experience through the entire building will be akin to a private members club – luxurious and relaxing. Focusing on the themes of art, wellbeing and sport, the design seeks to establish a new model for private terminals that provides a seamless experience from resort to aeroplane.”

Middle East & South Asia Aviation Director of Egis, Jacques Khoriaty, said: “Along with embodying the luxurious spirit of the resort, the AMAALA airport meets the highest environmental design and sustainability standards, is operationally versatile and incorporates the latest airport technology and best practice standards on offer. It has been a privilege to have worked closely with AMAALA to define the requirements of this unique project and we look forward continuing our support all the way through to the opening of the airport in 2023.”

Exotic-Destinations

Schloss Burgdorf welcomes first guests as “Schloss für alle”(castle for all)

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Schloss Burgdorf opens its doors to the public on 13 June 2020. The city in the Emmen Valley now features a youth hostel with 115 beds, a new restaurant, an exciting museum for all ages and numerous options for private and business events. 800-year-old Zähringen castle is also home to a civil wedding venue.

A piece of Swiss history can now be experienced by everyone at close quarters: Built in the early 13th century, Schloss Burgdorf will open its doors completely to the public for the first time ever with the opening of the “Schloss für alle”. The castle was home to dukes, sheriffs and canton administration for centuries, and now a youth hostel, museum, the Schloss Burgdorf restaurant and a civil wedding venue are to be found at the old fortress following major renovations. The castle also offers a wide variety of different event areas.


Accommodation in the museum
One of the main features of the “new” Schloss Burgdorf is its redesigned museum. This relates exciting stories about the castle, the region and people from Burgdorf who travelled overseas, leaving their mark all over the world. It invites guests of all ages to re-experience the turbulent history of the castle in the present. Numerous “cabinets of curiosities”, hands-on stations and changing exhibition themes ensure that the museum is always thrilling no matter how often you visit. “It was our goal to truly create a ‘Museum for everyone’ with all the different formats,” says museum director Daniel Furter.

Those who have dreamt of adventures from movies like “Night at the Museum” or “The Princess Diaries” are one step closer to their dream here. The museum is not confined to just a few single rooms –it is spread across the entire castle, even into the rooms of the youth hostel. The latest member in the network of Swiss Youth Hostels hosts a total of 31 rooms, including double and family rooms as well as dormitories with four or six beds. Rooms are optionally available with a separate shower/WC or a bathroom on the same floor level. Ten rooms are also accessible for the disabled. Just like the entire castle, the hostel also offers plenty of space to meet and interact with other guests, with its spacious lounges that are typical in youth hostels. The accommodation price also includes breakfast and admission to the museum free of charge for youth hostel guests. Staying at the Schloss Burgdorf youth hostel offers a unique experience for everyone, from those travelling alone, to couples and families, groups, schools and companies. “Schloss Burgdorf is not only ideal for leisure and holiday trips. It’s also geared specifically to the educational demands of schools. The combination of museum and accommodation is the perfect reflection of the ‘Travelling for education’ creed that the Swiss Youth Hostels have long devoted themselves to,” says Janine Bunte, CEO of Swiss Youth Hostels.
Accommodation in a dormitory is available from 40 CHF per person (including breakfast and admission to the museum), while one night in a private room starts at 60 CHF per person.

Everything under one roof for dining, conferences and weddings
The Schloss Burgdorf restaurant which like the hostel, is run by Swiss Youth Hostels, is a new “place to be” for Burgdorf residents and visitors to the castle. Up to 60 hungry and thirsty guests can be entertained at the restaurant throughout the year, with seating for an additional 60 in the garden restaurant overlooking Emmen Valley during summer. The attractive selection of regional à la carte dishes also features reasonably-priced set lunch and dinner menus. On Sundays, the restaurant serves a fine brunch, ensuring a special weekend experience together with a visit to the museum.

Schloss Burgdorf also offers an ideal infrastructure for private and business events with a wide range of different rooms and areas that are perfect for seminars and conferences, with options for an accompanying seated or standing lunch. Private occasions such as birthdays, family celebrations or wedding receptions can be celebrated there too. Couples can also get married in the castle; at the civil wedding venue located within the castle walls. The unique atmosphere in the various rooms and outdoor areas gives every event a unique flair. To keep organisation as simple as possible, Schloss Burgdorf offers a package deal: from event rooms, including catering, technical infrastructure and accommodation. All this is under one roof and within walking distance.

The “Schloss für alle” concept is not only a hit among guests in Switzerland – it also attracts visitors from abroad, putting the entire Emmen Valley on the map. “As a hostel, museum, restaurant and impressive location for events and wedding ceremonies, the castle is a highlight of our city and region. Yet another reason for guests to visit us from near and far, to discover living history, to celebrate or to explore our grandiose and pure Emmen Valley landscape and hospitality,” Stefan Berger, mayor of Burgdorf, is pleased to report.

From the idea in 2011 to the opening in 2020
The concept of combining a museum, a restaurant with rooms for events and conferences, the civil wedding venue and a youth hostel came from the generator of ideas Atelier G+S, a Burgdorf architectural firm. After winning the ideas competition in 2011, the firm was also responsible for renovations which began in mid-2018. “The ‘Schloss für alle’ project is an excellent fit for Swiss Youth Hostels and convinced us right from the start. A modern operation that was designed based on sustainability in a historically significant building, combined with the educational offerings of the museum and the restaurant as a place to meet – it’s a perfect reflection of the philosophy and spirit of our company,” states Kurt Schempp, project manager at Swiss Youth Hostels.

There are a number of people and institutions that helped make the “Schloss für alle” a reality, providing both conceptual and financial support and advancing the project. “The repurposing project wasn’t a simple endeavour by any means. But everyone pulled together: city and canton authorities, as well as the Emmental municipalities, the towns of Zähringen, business sponsors, individuals who have donated and the tolerant town residents. “Today’s opening wouldn’t have been possible without their support, commitment and unfailing determination,” says Markus Meyer, president of the board of trustees of the Burgdorf Castle foundation.

For further information:
Youth hostel (prices and availability) – http://www.youthhostel.ch/burgdorf
Schloss Burgdorf (offers and prices) – http://www.schloss-burgdorf.ch

Exotic-Destinations, News

Fodele Beach – Waterpark Resort Crete – Perfect Place for a Multigenerational Family Escape

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Multigenerational holidays were on the rise before COVID-19, with polls from Virgin, EasyJet and Ryanair finding that 7 out of 10 families have had at least one. But after lockdown, they will likely skyrocket, because families will be free to embrace again. And what better way to celebrate this fresh reunion than by taking a holiday with your whole family, all together at last, appreciating the full depth of your bond. Luckily, there are some hotels out there built for multigenerational holidays, with activities for all the family to enjoy together. Fodele Beach & Water Park Resort is a shining example of such a hotel.

Sitting on a glistening cliffside on the Cretan coast in Heraklion, Fodele is the perfect destination for a multigenerational holiday, with an unhurried atmosphere in which you and your entire family can relax and have fun at your own pace. Just spending time together and catching up without a screen or a phone after lockdown will feel like a gift. But imagine doing so by the clear waters of a beach at your door, or on a sun lounger by the pool, or with a delicious and fresh dinner on a beautiful outdoor terrace overlooking the regal sea. This is what Fodele offers: a rewarding break for those looking to escape the treadmill of everyday life and take comfort in the company of their loved ones after so long apart.

But, of course, while you’re chilling out, the children will want to release all the energy they kept bottled up at home and keep entertained. Fortunately, Fodele is home to the largest hotel waterpark in the region, with many swimming pools and nine exhilarating, family-friendly waterslides, including a body slide, which older family members and children can ride together, a rafting slide on a swimming ring, and a black hole slide which propels you through a dark abyss adorned with starry lights. It’s a great way to relieve any additional stress an ordinary family holiday might bring. However, fun is not exclusive to children at Fodele: grandparents and parents regularly have just as magical a time at the waterpark as the children!

Grandparents, nowadays, are enjoying more active retirements, so many of them will want an adventure beyond just relaxing by the beach. And Fodele is the perfect place to experience such an adventure with a remarkable range of sports facilities. From basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, to archery ranges, to a mini-golf course, to football pitches and a fitness centre, all of which await you and your entire family, to enjoy fun, competitive games together under the warm Cretan sun.

If everyone is feeling especially energetic, you can take a family trip to explore Crete while staying active with a scenic mountain bike expedition. Whether you traverse the terrain alone or take a guided excursion with adventure bike tour company JoyRide.bike, you’ll have the precious bonding experience you’ve been looking for since lockdown passed while bearing witness to the majesty of the island’s natural landscapes.

With restrictions on non-essential travel to Europe set to ease from July 1, Fodele is opening its doors to guests, and will serve as the very pinnacle of destinations for a multigenerational holiday.

https://www.fodelebeach.gr/

About Fodele Beach & Water Park Holiday Resort:

Located 25km west of Heraklion International Airport, Crete, Fodele Beach sits on a majestic cliffside, towering over the peaceful Cretan Sea, with a sandy beach right below the complex. Families will feel at home in the elegant range of guestrooms and bungalows which reflect centuries of Greek culture. Graced with glorious views, fragrant gardens, and memorable dining experiences of international cuisines, you will find a paradise at Fodele. No matter the kind of family holiday you’re after, Fodele Beach is the destination you’ve been looking for.

Fodele Beach & Water Park Holiday Resort
Heraklion 71500 Crete, Greece

Citybreaks, Exotic-Destinations

Connoisseur Circle Hospitality Awards Winners 2020

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The Connoisseur Circle Hospitality Awards honor the world’s finest hosts: very special hotels in the luxury class that have distinguished themselves with outstanding service to their guests. With its prestigious awards, Connoisseur Circle is a gauge of excellence in the world of luxury hotels, airlines and cruise lines – and at the same time it is the ideal forum for showcasing select brand-name articles for luxury travelers, fine hotel living and haute cuisine.

From a total of 35 nominees, a jury of experts and the readers of the luxury travel magazine will present the winners in 9 categories.

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

Winners 2020:

• Best Hospitality Grand Hotel: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Thailand
• Best Hospitality Boutique Hotel: Rocco Forte Hotel de la Ville, Rome
• Best Hospitality Readers’ Choice: St. Regis Resort, Mauritius
• Best Hospitality Hideaway:  Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman
• Best Hospitality Hideaway Indian Ocean: Velaa private island, Maledives
• Best Hospitality Sustainable Hotel: Shinta Mani Wild, Bensley Collection, Cambodia
• Best Hospitality Spa & Health Hotel: Amanpuri, Phuket, Thailand
• Best Hospitality Newcomer: Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti, Italy
• Best Hospitality Designhotel: The FONTENAY Hamburg, Germany

Winner „Special Awards“:
• Readers ‘Choice Best Destination of the Year: Dominikanische Republik
• Destination of the year: Jamaika
• Cultural Get Away of the year:  Malta
• Innovation Award: barefoot Hotel Timmendorfer Strand
• Airline of the year:  Emirates
• Hotel Investor & Developer: 12.18. Investment Management – 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza

Citybreaks, Exotic-Destinations

Beach Vibes in Vilnius: Largest City Square Turns into Pop-Up Beach

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The capital of Lithuania, which is located 3 hours away from the seashore, brings the locals and tourists an experience of a real seaside resort, opening a sandy beach in the heart of the city.

„If people of Vilnius cannot go to the sea, then the sea will come to Vilnius,“ – says the city mayor Remigijus Šimašius. As of June 23rd, Lukiškės Square, the largest square in the city, will turn into an „Open Beach.“ White sand, wooden paths, sun loungers, lifeguard tower and changing booths will invite visitors to experience Vilnius as a summer holiday place.

Vilnius, which already offers a whole package of sights and activities enticing to spend warm summer days in the city, now proves it can also create a version of the only thing it doesn’t physically have: the sea. The city has been showing its creativity during the pandemic – by opening restaurants and cafés in all the squares and side streets, launching a mask fashion week, turning empty seats in restaurants into fashion displays and so on.

A unique opportunity to enjoy beach life right in the heart of Vilnius was created by the local authorities together with „Telia Lithuania,“ one of the largest telecommunications, IT and TV services providers in the country. The project creatively deals with one of the hardest consequences of quarantine – restricted freedom to travel and strongly affected vacation plans. 

„We could not ignore the fact that many people had to drastically change their already planned vacation due to quarantine,“ – said Mr. Šimašius. As the city has already proved itself open for creative solutions in difficult times, the mayor says this idea was no exception: „The popular seaside resorts of Southern Europe are not easily accessible at the moment, and our Baltic Sea beaches will be overpacked this summer. That’s why we needed a solution to help people recoup some of that vacation vibe on Vilnius‘ very own beach.“

The „Open Beach“ will be open for relaxation, sunbathing, beach volleyball and various other activities. Full beach experience is not possible without the sea, so during the daytime, a large screen provided by „Telia“ will broadcast the waves and relaxing sounds of the Baltic Sea, while in the evening the program will include movies, popular series and concerts.

For those who want to mix beach atmosphere with work, the beach will offer tables with free WiFi and electrical outlets, inviting locals to take some „workation“ time. On Sundays, the area will be dedicated to families – special programs for kids will be broadcasted on the screen while animators entertain the youngsters.

„We are glad that Vilnius has gained global visibility during quarantine thanks to its creative solutions. A summer beach in the capital is a part of the new reality that is positively influencing our lives. In this reality, your office can be at the seaside, and your beach is in the capital. Work and pleasure are not dependent on  location anymore – we can create the environment we wish to have, no matter where we are physically,“ – says Birutė Eimontaitė, communications manager of „Telia Lithuania.“

The capital of Lithuania has become a world-famous city, battling quarantine by turning into a vast open-air cafe, offering drive-in cinema on the runways of  Vilnius Airport, and launching summer projects like „Vacation in Vilnius“ weekends, which allow to experience other cultures without going abroad. At the beginning of July, the city will also turn into one giant art gallery under the open sky – the project will give local artists a hundred billboards free of charge to showcase and sell their art.

ABOUT GO VILNIUS

Go Vilnius is the official tourism and business development agency of the City of Vilnius. The agency provides visitors, investors, relocating talent, entrepreneurs and businesses with all the essential information they need to know about the Lithuanian capital. Go Vilnius offers information on everything from real estate to leisure activities in Vilnius, simplifying the process of travelling, relocating to, or investing in Vilnius.