Four Seasons Hotel Shenzhen

Four Seasons Hotel Shenzhen

An innovative art-filled oasis in a buzzing modern metropolis, Four Seasons Hotel Shenzhen is the perfect getaway for international and Chinese travellers alike seeking an inspiring connection to the contagious energy of its Shenzhen home. The Hotel's two exclusive new offers – Stay Longer and the Limousine Package – ensure there's no better time to explore this vibrant city gem.

Stay Longer

Valid for selected dates from now to December 31, 2024, the Hotel's Stay Longer offer provides a complimentary third night for every two consecutive paid nights – the ideal excuse to enjoy the beat of China's cosmopolitan powerhouse heart a little longer.

From swimming in the outdoor and indoor pools to world-class dining, there are an array of luxurious experiences to savour at the city's modern retreat. Just steps away from the Hotel, high-end shopping and restful green spaces invite vacation vibes, or that extra day might be spent exploring nearby attractions.

A Seamless Getaway

Valid from now to June 30, 2024, embark on a stylish voyage into the summer with the Hotel's seamless Limousine Package. With the option of a one-way arrival or departure limousine service between Hong Kong International Airport and the Hotel. Other package benefits include breakfast for two, 15% off food and beverages, 20% off Hotel laundry service and 30% off additional nights booked beyond the one-night package stay period.

Just ten minutes by car to The Stock Exchange and Civic Center, the Hotel's location in the heart of the Futian district makes it ideal for business travel, while a glamorous city getaway with friends might feature catching up over cocktails at chic Yi Lounge, luxurious Spa treatments with aromatic Asian eaglewood, and dazzling dining at contemporary Cantonese restaurant Zhuo Yue Xuan.

Whether travelling from Hong Kong, mainland China, or further afield, both domestic and international guests stand to benefit from the two exciting new packages, further cementing the Hotel's iconic lure in the country's third largest metropolis.

The Four Seasons Hotel Shenzhen is ideally located in the heart of the commercial district of Futian, across the Shenzhen Conference & Exhibition Center and a short walk from the Civic Center which houses the city's Municipal Hall and Museum as well as near the famed Shenzhen Concert Hall and Library. The Hotel is surrounded by 3 modern shopping malls and is a few steps away from the subway metro station and 10-minute drive to two Hong Kong borders of Huanggang and Futian. Built along contemporary lines, the Hotel features 266 rooms inclusive of 32 suites, a Club Lounge, Business Centre, four food and beverage outlets, and a grand ballroom with five other function venues plus unique outdoor multilevel terraces. For bookings or enquiries, please visit fourseasons.com/shenzhen/offers

Celebrity Cruises - Nothing Comes Close

celebrity cruises nothing comes close

Celebrity Cruises® is extending an irresistible invitation to discerning travelers: Come on board and discover a world where 'Nothing Comes Close SM' to the elevated experiences and unmatched offerings that await on a premium journey at sea. 'Nothing Comes Close', Celebrity Cruises' new brand positioning and brand identity, is premiering globally on April 8th. The launch builds upon the recent enthusiastic reception to the introduction of Celebrity Ascent SM in late 2023 and the highly anticipated arrival of Celebrity Xcel SM in 2025.

Designed to capture Celebrity's unique offering combining the intimate and thoughtful service of a small ship, with the variety and excitement of bigger ones, 'Nothing Comes Close' will be the core of the cruise line's brand positioning from media and advertising, to travel advisors and onboard. It highlights the inherent promise of a premium vacation that indulges the sense of curiosity, exceeds expectations, and offers experiences found nowhere else.

"Our guests tell us that Celebrity vacations are unparalleled. From the thoughtfulness of our crew, to the excitement of entertainment and activities, guests tell us that 'Nothing Comes Close' to the way we make them feel," said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. "Our new brand position packages this feeling in a memorable and compelling way."

The brand positioning is brought to life in a confident and playful creative style which captures the essence of a Celebrity vacation from the perspective of guests employing a technique coined 'True Eye View'. Distinguishing Celebrity, the visual approach is designed to elevate audience's curiosity through their point of view and make them feel like they're in the moment.

"This isn't just a brand campaign. This is who we are. It embodies the spirit of what sets a Celebrity Cruises vacation apart," said Michael Scheiner, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Celebrity Cruises. "The creative direction captures and conveys the elevated emotions and transformative experiences that guests enjoy from the moment they step onboard Celebrity Cruises, where every detail is elevated beyond their expectations."

Celebrity is launching the 'Nothing Comes Close' campaign with a high reach, full funnel media buy. With its witty messaging and authentic imagery, 'Nothing Comes Close' cements Celebrity's reputation among guests as a brand with an emotional connection that sets it apart from the rest.

Celebrity Cruises delivers an elevated premium vacation experience across their fleet of ships travelling to nearly 300 destinations across more than 70 countries spanning all seven continents. Uniquely offering the intimate feel and thoughtful service of small ships, with the variety and excitement of bigger ones – guests can explore the world or get away from it for a little while. With every detail elevated beyond expectations, guests will never want to vacation any other way. An industry pioneer for 35 years, each Celebrity vacation offers experiences you won't find anywhere else aboard ships which continue to shatter industry expectations with the highly anticipated Celebrity Xcel arriving Fall 2025. For more information please visit celebritycruises.com

Cathay Pacific Elevates Inflight Dining Experience

cathay pacific elevates inflight dining experience

The award-winning Hong Kong-based airline Cathay Pacific has some new and exciting partnerships in the field of inflight dining, aimed at delivering an exceptional culinary experience to passengers travelling in the South Asia, Middle East, and Africa (SAMEA) region.

Cathay Pacific has always been committed to providing its customers with top-notch services, and inflight dining is no exception. With the newly established collaborations, the airline aims to elevate its inflight culinary offerings, showcasing the diverse and vibrant culinary cultures of the SAMEA region.

Through partnerships with renowned local and international culinary experts, Cathay Pacific has curated a menu that caters to the discerning palates of its passengers. Partners include Rosewood Hong Kong, Mak's Noodles, Veda, and many others, offering a variety of choices and options that cater to vegetarian and vegan diets as well. These collaborations bring together the expertise of acclaimed chefs, local food artisans, and premium suppliers to create a truly memorable dining experience onboard.

The airline's commitment to quality and innovation is reflected in its partnerships with esteemed culinary establishments. By collaborating with industry-leading experts, such as the Duddell's and Pirata, Cathay Pacific ensures that their passengers can savour a wide array of delectable dishes, ranging from authentic regional delicacies to international gourmet creations.

As for beverages, passengers can enjoy specialty-crafted cocktails when they fly with Cathay Pacific. Their partnership with the team at DarkSide, listed as no. 9 in Asia's top 50 bars of 2023, has allowed First Class passengers and Cathay Diamond to indulge in a variety of thirst-quenching options. Cathay has also partnered with The Coffee Academics to create the highly aromatic Cathay Blend, a unique blend that balances flavour, aroma, body acidity, and aftertaste at 30,000 feet in the air.

For non-caffeinated and non-alcoholic alternatives, Cathay Pacific's collaboration with JING Tea has put together blends of sustainably sourced tea leaves that promote online relaxation.

Passengers flying with Cathay Pacific can look forward to experiencing the remarkable flavours and culinary excellence that these collaborations bring to the inflight dining experience. Whether it's a regional speciality, an international favourite, or a carefully curated beverage selection, Cathay Pacific strives to exceed passengers' expectations with every meal served.

Seafood Loves Sake 2024

seafood loves sake 2024

The Japan Food Product Overseas Promotion Center ("JFOODO"), in collaboration with 16 renowned restaurants throughout Singapore, is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated "Seafood Loves Sake. 2024" gourmet festival (the "Campaign") for its 4th edition. This time-determined event will showcase 32 sets of exquisite pairs of seafood and sake, offering a unique savoury experience for food and wine enthusiasts. The Campaign will be divided into two phases, allowing patrons ample opportunity to indulge in this gastronomic delight. The first phase will run from 20th January to 8th February 2024, featuring thirteen participating restaurants. The second phase will take place from 26th February to 17th March 2024, with three additional restaurants offering their picked creations.

The Perfect Harmony: "Seafood Loves Sake. 2024" Presents Synergistic Flavours and Elaborated Enhancements

Seafood Loves Sake. 2024 identifies how the marriage of delicate seafood flavours with the elegant profiles of sake results in a true gastronomic delight, highlighting their synergistic flavours. Japanese sake, a traditional alcoholic beverage made from rice, koji (rice malt), and water, plays a central role in this Campaign. Brewed through a meticulous process, sake offers diverse flavours, ranging from light and mild to bold and rich. When paired with seafood, sake creates a new dimension of outstanding taste through the synergy of sapor. The Campaign introduces the different types of sake, including aromatic, smooth and refreshing, rich with umami, aged with a nutty fragrance, and the emerging naturally sparkling varieties. Each class offers a unique sensory experience, enriching the pairing with seafood.

To Tantalise You with a Preview of Three Exceptional Michelin-starred Restaurants and Their Offerings

Seafood Loves Sake. 2024 aims to highlight the captivating allure of sake and seafood, bringing together the delicate flavours of seafood with the elegant profiles of sake. Sixteen prominent restaurants, including the prestigious Three Michelin-starred ODETTE and two other One Michelin-starred establishments, Tess Bar & Kitchen and WHITEGRASS, have joined forces to create exclusive menus that can only be enjoyed for a limited time.

ODETTE, led by its co-founder and award-winning Chef Julien Royer, celebrates exceptional ingredients sourced from passionate farmers and producers worldwide. Through Chef Julien's unique vision, the cuisine at ODETTE opens up a world of exciting possibilities, showcasing the natural flavours of ingredients at their peak.

Indulge in the Scottish Scallops, where hand-dived scallops from Scotland are delicately wrapped with pancetta and seared to perfection. Accompanied by a luscious kabocha purée, slices of raw pumpkin, roasted chestnuts, and an irresistible sauce of chestnut miso velouté with a brown butter foam, this dish is a symphony of textures and tastes. The Kikkawa Afuri, Junmai "Rokugoh" Jikomi Yamadanishiki playfully teases the taste buds as it dances perfectly with this dish. The Hokkaido Kinki, a steamed masterpiece featuring Kinki from Hokkaido, is perfectly cooked between layers of kombu. Enhanced with bouchot moules from Moule Morisseau, razor clams, and a delightful pink garlic velouté crafted from mussel juice, each bite is a revelation. The Tamanohikari Sake Brewery, Zenri will be coupled to bring depth and elegance to this extraordinary culinary journey.

At Tess Bar & Kitchen, Chef Kenneth Oh, the World Gourmet Summit's "Rising Chef of the Year" in 2017, combines modern cocktails with a trendy interpretation of food. Bolstered by an industrial-chic design, Tess Bar & Kitchen provides a relaxed ambience for guests to enjoy their culinary creations.

Tess Bar & Kitchen enchants with a remarkable combination of dishes artfully paired with exquisite sake. The Norway Atlantic Cod Fish, sourced from the pristine waters of the Barents Sea, boasts a gentle and naturally buttery flavour, enhanced by a white miso marinade. It is suggested to drink Gozenshu Junmai 1859 Bodaimoto to elevate each bite. Additionally, the Madagascar King Prawn & Pumpkin Risotto features succulent prawns from the warm Mozambique channel, grilled over binchōtan charcoal to achieve a firm, meaty texture and an enticing charred aroma. To complete this experience, the Echizen Misaki Junmai Daiginjo Sakahomare is expected to add a symphony of flavour that harmonises with its delicacies.

WHITEGRASS is located within the historic Chijmes landmark. This exceptional restaurant seamlessly blends classic French cuisine with a distinct Japanese influence, resulting in an extraordinary dining experience. Chef Takuya Yamashita, hailing from the nature-rich Nara Prefecture, infuses his dishes with a deep reverence for the environment and a passion for storytelling. Chef Yamashita's refined techniques and creative flair shine through in every thoughtfully crafted dish.

Delight in the Poisson with Tennōji Kabu, featuring a succulent Japanese market fish roasted to perfection, accompanied by a luscious purée of tennōji kabu flavoured with yuzu and a rich clam butter sauce. To elevate its charm, it is recommended to pair it with the NANBUBIJIN JUNMAI DAIGINJO SAKE-MIRAI TENKEI sake. Another tailored dish, the Tempura Hokkaido Scallop, where a plump and juicy scallop from Hokkaido takes centre stage, is deep-fried tempura-style and served with a beetroot purée, white soy sauce, and Japanese vinegar sauce, garnished with stracciatella, hanaho flowers, and cranberry hibiscus. Finishing this extraordinary flavour is KAMOSHIBITO KUHEIJI JUNMAI DAIGINJYO OMACHI SAUVAGE sake selections, adding a touch of refinement and sophistication to this unforgettable dining experience.

These are just a glimpse of the extraordinary dining experiences that await participants during the Campaign. Each participating restaurant will offer unique menus featuring carefully curated dishes emphasising the impeccable pairing of sake and seafood.

Sake's Remarkable "Supplemental Effect" Beyond Elevating Harmonious Flavors

Unlike white wine, which might intensify seafood's unpleasant smell. As a fermented liquor, sake enhances the umami of foods and neutralises the undesirable odours that may arise from seafood, ensuring that only delicious flavours prevail. A survey conducted in Japan revealed that approximately 70% of people enjoy sake as their primary alcoholic beverage during meals.

Bridging Generations: A Spectacular Celebration for Young and Middle-aged Audiences

This Campaign cordially welcomes wine enthusiasts aged 35 to 49 who regularly indulge in dining experiences. It also seeks to engage the younger generation and foster their appreciation for the rich and deep-rooted sake culture. Individuals aged 25 to 34 who may consume low-alcohol beverages less frequently will have the opportunity to explore their interests and discover the wonders of this event.

"We are excited to present the Seafood Loves Sake. 2024, an elevated pairing informed by experts," stated Mr. Tetsuya Ito, Senior Director of JFOODO, "with guidance from sommeliers and the culinary expertise of distinguished chefs, this exceptional collaboration promises to deliver a truly splendid combination of sake and seafood."

JFOODO encourages patrons to make reservations in advance, as seating for this exclusive event is limited. Further details regarding participating restaurants, menus, and reservation information can be found on the official "Seafood Loves Sake. 2024" website.

Innovation at the 2024 1TourismWorld Global Conference

innovation at the 2024 1tourismworld global conference

The 1TourismWorld | Global Tourism Conference is an annual event that brings together leaders in the tourism and hospitality industry from around the world.The conference is considered one of the most significant gatherings in the global tourism and hospitality industry.

The 1TourismWorld | 2024 Global Tourism and Hospitality Conference, taking place as a virtual event, from Monday, February 12, through Wednesday, February 16, is renowned for its comprehensive scope and international participation, and brings together industry business and entrepreneurial leaders, innovators, and investors from various corners of the world.

DAY 1 – Monday, February 12, 2024

HOTELS | RESTAURANTS | TRAVEL MANAGEMENT | HOSPITALITY INNOVATIONS | HOTEL DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE

DAY 2 – Tuesday, February 13, 2024

CRUISE | CRUISE SHIP INNOVATIONS & TECH | CRUISE SHIP DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE

DAY 3 – Wednesday, February 14, 2024

AIRLINES | AIRCRAFT TECHNOLOGIES | AIRLINE INDUSTRY TRENDS

DAY 4 – Thursday, February 15, 2024

YACHTING | YACHT INNOVATIONS & TECH | ADVANCEMENTS IN YACHT DESIGN

DAY 5 – Friday, February 16, 2024

TRAVEL MANAGEMENT | DESTINATIONS | DESTINATION MANAGEMENT | TOUR OPERATORS

For more information on the 2024 1TourismWorld Conference, the program, the speakers, and to register, please visit: https://1businessworld.com/1tourismworld-conference/

2024 Guide on Avoiding Crowds on Mount Kilimanjaro

2024 guide on avoiding crowds on mount kilimanjaro

Altezza Travel, the largest operator of Mount Kilimanjaro tours, has released a comprehensive guide for 2024. The guide explores the crowding problem on Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions and offers expert guidance on crafting a memorable, crowd-free journey to the "Roof of Africa."

Mount Kilimanjaro rises 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, earning the title of Africa's highest peak and the world's tallest free-standing mountain. Scaling the diverse climatic zones of this ancient volcano to stand on its iconic glacier-framed peak is on the bucket list of many adventurers.

In 2023, a record 61,527 trekkers set out to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro. They were assisted by over 150,000 guides, porters, and cooks, essentially making Kilimanjaro one of the world's busiest trekking destinations. However, it's still very much possible to experience this stunning trek while enjoying its tranquil and scenic wilderness. Altezza Travel's guide shares useful tips on how to do that.

Unlike many popular high-altitude mountains that have the problem of overcrowding, Kilimanjaro offers more options for those seeking a quiet trekking experience due to the variety of routes and their availability all year round.

During peak seasons, popular trails get crowded. For adventurers who seek the "authentic" Kilimanjaro experience - a tranquil trek with no other groups in sight, a new planning strategy is essential.

Altezza Travel reports that over 90% of climbers ascend during the dry seasons from late June to middle October, and from late December through late February. So, one key to a serene experience lies in the right timing. Climbing Kilimanjaro is possible all year round, even during the rainy seasons. However, Altezza has identified three sweet spots during transition seasons when favorable weather coincides with dramatically fewer crowds:

March 1-15

June 1-20

October 15-31

Route selection is equally critical. Eight classic trails ascent the volcano from different sides, varying in difficulty and popularity. The Lemosho route, once a quiet "hidden gem," attracted 17,000+ trekkers in 2023, becoming the most popular path alongside the Marangu and Machame routes. Conversely, some trails like the Rongai route, while still being beginner-friendly, see over 10 times fewer hikers than Lemosho.

Interestingly, the day you start the climb also matters. To make the most of vacation time, many hikers arrive in Tanzania before the weekend and begin their ascent from Friday to Monday. However, a start on Wednesday or Thursday can mean encountering nearly half as many climbers compared to a Sunday start. Opting for less popular routes midweek can result in up to 20 times fewer hikers.

Thomas Becker, Expeditions Coordinator at Altezza Travel, shares his thoughts: "Choosing off-peak times for your Kilimanjaro climb not only ensures a tranquil experience but also contributes to the preservation of this pristine environment and provides work opportunities for the local communities during the tourism downtime."

Supporting Mental Health Through Stress-Free Travel Accommodations

supporting mental health through stress free travel accommodations

Reservations Center, a pioneering online travel agency, is proud to announce its latest initiative aimed at supporting the mental health of travelers. Recognizing the often-overlooked connection between mental well-being and travel, Reservations Center is setting a new industry standard by offering affordable, stress-free accommodation options.

Ease of Booking: A Step Towards Mental Wellness

Travel planning, often seen as a source of stress, can significantly impact one's mental health. Reservations Center simplifies this process with an intuitive, user-friendly platform, ensuring a seamless experience from browsing to booking. This ease of use is a crucial step in minimizing pre-trip anxiety and enhancing the overall travel experience.

Affordable Options for Every Traveler

Understanding the financial strain that can accompany travel planning, Reservations Center offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every budget. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, the focus is on providing value without compromising on quality, thereby reducing the financial stress associated with travel.

Expert Tips for Mindful Travel

In addition to offering affordable accommodations, Reservations Center is committed to promoting mental health awareness through travel. The company provides resources and expert tips on mindful travel practices, helping travelers to stay grounded and enjoy their journeys fully.

"Our mission extends beyond just offering great travel deals. We understand that travel can be a significant stressor, and we are committed to making it a more mindful and enjoyable experience. By focusing on affordable, stress-free accommodations, we aim to positively impact our customers' mental health and overall well-being," said Aaron Judge, PR Manager, Reservations Center.

About Reservations Center

Reservations Center is an online travel agency known for its innovative approach to travel booking. With a focus on customer satisfaction and ease of use, the company offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to the needs of diverse travelers.

Luxury All-Inclusive Resort Located on Mexico's Coast

luxury all inclusive resort located on mexico coast

Grand Velas Riviera Maya, the AAA Five Diamond luxury all-inclusive resort located on Mexico's Caribbean coast, introduces a new culinary experience honoring the country's traditions of artisanal chocolate and mezcal. Guests are invited to embark on a guided tasting journey led by the resort's sommelier, where they will explore a curated selection of dark and white Mexican artisan chocolates from Campeche on the Gulf Coast of Mexico. Each chocolate is expertly paired with a mezcal to elevate the tasting notes of both the spirit and the cacao. Revered by the ancient indigenous Mayan and Aztec civilizations, cacao was declared "the food of the gods," and served a cherished role as an ingredient in ceremonial beverages and also as a form of currency. Similarly, mezcal, distilled from the heart of the agave plant, carries centuries of Mexican heritage and craftsmanship.

Menu highlights for the Mezcal and Chocolate Pairing include:

Mezcal Gin MG x Passion Fruit Infused White Chocolate

Flavor Profile: Mezcal Gin is a small-batch handcrafted spirit that brings together the complex body and flavors of artisanal Mezcal with the freshness and perfume of Gin. The sweetness of the wild Cenizo agave complements the tropical notes and freshness of the passion fruit.

Mezcal Montelobos Joven Ensamble x Foie Gras Infused Dark Chocolate

Flavor Profile: Montelobos Ensamble is made from a blend of agaves with body and acidity that highlights smoke and fruit. The mezcal's smoky notes of nutmeg and pink pepper provide a flavor explosion that contrasts with the richness of the foie gras.

Contraluz Cristalino Mezcal x Raspberry Infused Dark Chocolate

Flavor Profile: Contraluz Cristalino Mezcal is matured for approximately six months in charred American oak barrels and filtered through activated charcoal, resulting in a crystal-clear liquid with an elegant blend of aromas and flavors. Citrus and floral notes stand out, harmonizing with the acidity and tropical aromas of the raspberry.

Gracias a Dios Reposado x Mole Infused Dark Chocolate

Flavor Profile: Gracias a Dios Reposado offers a trifecta of smoke, with charcoal, pipe tobacco and beach barbecue, complemented by herbaceous notes of mint, rosemary, and chive. Spicy and smoky from a barrel-aging, the spirit works in tandem with the toasted notes of the chiles and dried fruits in the mole.

The weekly Mezcal and Chocolate Pairing Session is included in the hotel's all-inclusive plan. Rates at Grand Velas Riviera Maya start at $617 USD per adult per night based on double occupancy. All-inclusive rates include luxury suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity and more. For reservations or more information, call 1-888-407-4869, email reservations@velasresorts.com or visit https://www.velasresorts.com.

About Grand Velas Riviera Maya:

With the finest white sand beach in the Riviera Maya, the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an ultra-luxury all-inclusive resort set on 206 acres of pristine jungle and mangroves. Guests can choose accommodations that are oceanfront, ocean view or in a Zen-like tropical setting, embraced by the flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula's jungle. All 539 designer-like suites are exceptionally spacious, more than 1,100 square feet each, all with balconies, and some with private plunge pools. Eight restaurants, including five gourmet offerings, present a tour through Mexico, Europe and Asia. Cocina de Autor, at the hands of world-renowned celebrity chefs Bruno Oteiza and Mikel Alonso, holds the AAA Five Diamond Award, the first all-inclusive restaurant in the world to win this prestigious distinction. Se Spa is the region's largest spa sanctuary at more than 90,000 square feet, known for its authentic Mexican treatments and signature seven-step water journey. Other features include 24-hour Personal Concierge; 24/7 in-suite service; three swimming pools; two fitness centers; water sports; innovative Kids' Clubs and Teens' Club; baby concierge; Karaoke Bar; Koi Bar; Amat Cafe, and business center. The resort offers more than 91,000 square feet of meeting space and outdoor areas for events inclusive of a 31,000-square-foot Convention Center, able to accommodate up to 2,700 guests. Grand Velas Riviera Maya was built by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or additional information please visit rivieramaya.grandvelas.com. Explore tips, recipes, lifestyle and travel trends, and the latest news about Velas Resorts on the digital mag: www.velasmagazine.com.