Industry News

In honour of International Women’s Day on March 8, Preferred Travel Group, is highlighting some of the exceptional initiatives implemented by member hotels globally that align with this year’s theme of #AccelerateAction. From Sweden to India and beyond, these hotels are deeply committed to empowering women—both within their local communities and further afield— driving meaningful change through inspiring programs and advocacy.  "At Preferred Travel Group, we believe that meaningful change begins with action. This International Women’s Day, we are proud to support and celebrate the impactful initiatives of our member hotels that empower women, uplift communities, and create lasting positive change. This day serves as a timely reminder that together we can build a more inclusive and equitable world," said Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Travel Group.   Photo credits: Preferred Travel Group ATELIER Playa Mujeres (Cancun, Mexico) - Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X. Collection  ATELIER Playa Mujeres' "Painting Smiles" program, in partnership with the Ciudad de la Alegría Foundation, supports various "Homes with a Cause," including the Home of Women. This initiative focuses on supporting and extending a helping hand to women who have experienced violence or abandonment. Guests at the resort contribute through a nominal nightly donation, directly aiding these transformative programs. Additionally, hotel staff, known as Arteleros, engage in volunteer efforts, dedicating time and care to the community's wellbeing.  Photo credits: Preferred Travel Group Nordic Light Hotel (Stockholm, Sweden) - Preferred Hotels & Resorts Lifestyle Collection   Nordic Light Hotel works in partnership with Talita, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women leaving prostitution and human trafficking. Recognizing the challenges these women face, the hotel offers financial contributions, work training opportunities, and actively raises guest awareness about the issue. Every room features a door hanger on the pillows with information about Talita and ways for guests to support the cause—ensuring the message reaches everyone and clearly signalling the hotel’s commitment to this issue.  Photo credits: Preferred Travel Group The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts (India) - Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legend Collection and Beyond Green  In its commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and women's empowerment, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has partnered with Phool to upcycle florals adorning its properties into charcoal-free incense sticks and cones infused with Tishya by The Leela, the brand’s signature fragrance. These incense products burn cleanly, releasing no harmful toxins, while also reducing waste and minimizing pollution. Beyond environmental impact, this initiative fosters social inclusion by empowering women entrepreneurs, who are meticulously trained to handcraft these sustainable products, playing a crucial role in The Leela’s journey toward conscious luxury.  Photo credits: Preferred Travel Group SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge (Bahia Drake, Costa Rica) – Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X. Collection and Beyond Green  SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge is an active member of the RED SOFIA international program, certifying the lodge as a safe destination for solo female travellers. Their dedication is also reflected in a partnership with Del Silencio a la Libertad, a local NGO working to combat sexual abuse through therapy, education, and advocacy. Additional support for women-led initiatives includes La Flor de Boruca, an organization founded by women from the indigenous Boruca tribe who are working to preserve traditional crafts and generating income through ecotourism. Through these efforts, the property not only uplifts women locally but also contributes to lasting cultural and societal change.  Photo credits: Preferred Travel Group Virgin Hotels Edinburgh (Edinburgh, United Kingdom) - Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X. Collection   Virgin Hotels Edinburgh has collaborated with Lālla, a sustainable, women-led rug company to outfit their chambers and suites with unique, handmade Moroccan rugs. The London-based brand sources its rugs through female weaving cooperatives in Morocco's Atlas Mountains, supporting local artisans and telling their stories through each piece. The partnership with Virgin Hotels involved creating fully bespoke designs, employing 215 women for the project. The process took around 18 months, with every rug reflecting the personal craftsmanship of the weavers. Lālla’s founders, driven by their passion for travel and female empowerment, have transformed their love for Moroccan artistry into a meaningful business that blends sustainability with storytelling. 

This March, Angsana Velavaru invites travellers to experience a month full of vibrant celebrations and unforgettable moments. From vibrant colours Holi to the soulful celebration of women, the resort offers an array of event and experiences perfect for those seeking relaxation, adventure and an escape into paradise.  Photo credits: Angsana Velavaru A Celebration of Women  On 08 March, guests can indulge in a day of celebration dedicated to honouring the women in their lives. The experience begins with a  Champagne & Chocolate Tasting at Kuredhi Beach, where the bubbles of champagne pair perfectly with rich sweetness of chocolate, set  against the stunning Maldives backdrop.  Adventures can take part in the complimentary banana boat ride, an exciting experience offering the thrill of the sea and the warmth of camaraderie. For those seeking tranquillity, the Sunset Stretch & Relax session at Angsana Spa & Gallery invites guests to unwind as the sun  sets. As the day draws to close, guests can enjoy the Sunset Happy Hour at Funa, followed by a Feast of Senses overlooking the ocean, where exquisite flavours and breathtaking views come together for a memorable experience.  To cap off the night, the Ladies Night Party at Kuredhi Pool Bar promises an evening of laughter, music and celebration under the stars. Photo credits: Angsana Velavaru Dive into the Colours of Holi  Celebrate the vibrant festival of Holi with a week-long celebration from 10 to 17 March that invites guest to immerse themselves in colour and joy. Each moment offers an opportunity to embrace the artistry and vibrancy of the season, beginning with a Rangoli Making session at Kuredhi Pool Bar Beach, where guests can create intricate designs that capture the essence of the festival, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Maldives. The Colour Splash Extravaganza ignites the atmosphere with a spectacular burst of colours, offering a visually captivating experience that promises to be both joyful and exhilarating. For those seeking adventure, the resort invites guests to take part in Whale Shark Snorkelling, where encounters with these majestic gentle giants leave a lasting impression, blending awe with serenity in the crystal-clear waters.  The celebration of Indian culture continues with an elegant Indian Flavours Celebration at Kaani, where the rich tapestry of spices and delicacies transport guests to the heart of India’s culinary heritage. For a truly indulgent experience, guests can unwind with the soothing Holi Bliss at Angsana Spa & Gallery, a rejuvenating treatment designed to refresh both body and soul.  As the sun sets and the evening draws near, the DJ Party in Colours at Kuredhi Pool Bar fills the air with infectious beats and radiant neon hues,  creating an unforgettable atmosphere that pulses with energy and excitement, ensuring the spirit of Holi continues long into the night.  Throughout March, Angsana Velavaru offers a variety of complimentary experience designed to enhances every traveller’s stay. Guest can explore the house reef through snorkelling, enjoy a fun-filled karaoke night, or relax during a laid-back movie night under the stars.  This march, Angsana Velavaru serve as the perfect setting for unforgettable moments. For more information on these exciting events and to plan the ideal getaway, visit www.angsana.com 

Special offer includes a 2-night stay at Azerai La Residence, Hue or Azerai Ke Ga Bay  

Raffles Hotel Le Royal is set to welcome back Biggles Big Band, the world-famous jazz orchestra from Amsterdam, for a one-night-only performance on Saturday, Feb. 22. Photo credits: Raffles Hotel Le Royal The band is known for playing tunes from the great swing era, recreating the classic sounds of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and jazz singers like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Instruments in the band include trumpets, trombones, saxophones, guitar, piano, acoustic bass, drums, violins and more, along with vocalists. Conductor Sir Adrie Braat founded the orchestra in 1985 and they play popular weekly shows in The Netherlands’ capital every Monday night at the legendary cafe Casablanca. Tickets for the concert at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the 96-year-old luxury heritage hotel in Phnom Penh, are priced at $65 net, inclusive of set dinner and unlimited complimentary wines and beers courtesy of event sponsors Heineken and Celliers d’Asie. The evening programme runs from 7pm to 10pm, with the concert in the hotel’s elegant Royal Ballroom. Biggles Big Band played its first-ever show in Cambodia last year, also at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, and received rave reviews from guests and local music fans alike. For more information on Raffles Hotel Le Royal, or to make a booking for the concert, please contact +855 23 981 888 or visit www.raffles.com/phnom-penh.

Wellness-inspired hotel brand offers special meals, romantic stay packages and more.  

The Hari Hong Kong is greeting Valentine’s Day with a romantic stay replete with a chocolate strawberry bouquet and bubbles, an array of sublime dining experiences, and card writing to a special someone at a quaint “love trolley”. Photo credits: The Hari Hong Kong Standing 30-storeys tall on Lockhart Road in the heart of vibrant Wan Chai, the elegant hotel’s “Key to Your Heart” package offers loved-up couples a stay in one of the hotel’s luxurious rooms inclusive of daily breakfast for two, a welcome bottle of Prosecco, chocolate strawberry bouquet, HK$1000 dining credit, and early check-in and late check-out subject to availability. Priced from HK$2600++ per night and available for stays from February 1-16, 2025, the package is underpinned by rooms and suites imagined by renowned interior designer Tara Bernerd with views overlooking Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, The Peak and Victoria Harbour. Adorned with timber panelling, natural linen wallpaper, plush velvet upholstery and eccentric art, the bedrooms are separated from marble bathrooms by brass Crittal doors. Authentic Italian ristorante Lucciola and contemporary Japanese restaurant Zoku will each usher in Valentine’s Day on Friday February 14 with two intimate dinner seatings from 6-8pm and 8:30-10:30pm. The Terrace, an alfresco terrace bar framed by greenery, and The Lounge, a sitting area filled with art and books, will also offer Valentine’s Day menus from 3-6pm and 8:30-11pm. Lucciola’s two Valentine’s Day set dinner menus feature a ‘Crudo di Mare’ starter comprising freshly shucked oyster, tiger prawn, Alaskan king crab leg, black mussels and veraci clam, Amalfi lemon and cocktail sauce. The main course is a choice between four delectable dishes including ‘Tagliatelle 36x36 al Tartufo Nero’ made up of 36 egg yolk homemade tagliatelle, 36-month-aged Grana Padano Cheese, alpine butter and seasonal black truffle, and ‘La Tagliata di Manzo Americano’ underpinned by prime U.S. beef ribeye steak accompanied with wild rocket leaf and Vesuvian Datterino tomato, Aged Modena Balsamic Vinegar, and Aged Parmigiano Reggiano. ‘Tiramisu Rose, Fragole e Cioccolato’ dessert, a rose and strawberry tiramisu with white chocolate, rounds off the set menus that are priced for two persons at HK$1688 (first seating) and HK$1988 (second seating) inclusive of coffee or tea. Photo credits: The Hari Hong Kong Zoku’s two Valentine’s Day set dinner menus begin with a moriwase sashimi platter brimming with premium seasonal fish and seafood, with an optional half dozen fresh seasonal oysters with lime and ponzu for an additional HK$168. After a choice of either tempura, miso foie gras or snow crab, uni and tofu, diners select one of five main courses, ranging from koji duck leg confit with shio koji, Jerusalem artichoke, and pickled myoga to U.S. prime beef ribeye with baked sweet potato, kabocha, and yellow chili sauce to lobster tsukemen noodles; a spicy lobster soup with Okinawa soba noodles. Priced for two persons from HK$1688 (first seating) and HK $1988 (second seating) inclusive of coffee or tea, the set menus are topped off with fondant chocolate cake with coconut sorbet and Amarena cherry. The Terrace and The Lounge will serve “guilty pleasures” such as rose and strawberry tiramisu with white chocolate, and a white and dark chocolate strawberry bouquet with a glass of Perrier Jouet Grand Brut Champagne, priced at HK$138 and HK$288 respectively. A selection of cocktails, wines, sweet wines, and bubbles is also on offer at all four dining venues. As part of The Hari Hong Kong’s #SpreadTheLove campaign, from February 13-15 guests and residents from the hotel’s neighbourhood are encouraged to share drawings or messages of appreciation - directed to an individual special to them or a general message of appreciation - on the hotel’s Love Trolley. The three most creative cards, selected by The Hari Hong Kong’s team, will win prizes. First prize is a one-night stay in a Premium Corner Room with breakfast for two valued at HK$4,475. A ‘Weekend Brunch’ with two-hour free flow of wines and cocktails for two at Lucciola valued at HK$2,015, and the four-course ‘Discovery Zoku Tasting Menu’ for two at Zoku valued at HK$1,514 are the second and third prizes respectively. For a valid entry into the competition, participants must undertake the following steps: 1. Write a message or create a drawing on a #SpreadTheLove card 2. Hang the card on the Love Trolley using the provided ribbons 3. Take a photo of their card on the Love Trolley and share it as an Instagram story or post (the account must be public) 4. Tag @theharihk and add hashtags #SpreadTheLove #TheHariHK For more information, visit https://www.thehari.com/hong-kong/ To book the ‘Key to Your Heart’ package contact Rooms Reservations on bookme@thehari.com or +852 2129 0398.  To book a Valentine’s Day dining experience at Lucciola Restaurant & Bar or The Lounge, email lucciola@thehari.com or +852 2129 0333. To book a Valentine’s Day dining experience at Zoku Restaurant & The Terrace, email zoku@thehari.com or call +852 2129 0338.

Celebrate love and connections this Valentine’s Day with an unforgettable escape to Angsana Velavaru, where every moment is crafted to deepen bonds and create lasting memories. Nestled within the Maldives’ breathtaking natural beauty, this exclusive getaway invites couples to indulge in intimate experiences that go beyond the ordinary.  Photo credits: Angsana Velavaru Begin the day with a serene floating breakfast, featuring a selection of freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits, and perfectly prepared eggs. For a moment of calm, enjoy a floating tea experience complete with a handpicked teas and delicate treats. As the day unfolds, indulge in a curated wine journey at Kuredhi Pool Beach, where each glass tells a story of love and connection. As twilight approached, savour an intimate candlelit dinner at Funa, with a specially crafted menu complemented by a sparkling rosé. For an interactive touch, discover the art of mixology at a live cocktail station, crafting bespoke creations that embody the spirit of the day.  Celebrate creativity and togetherness with unique activities like a Mocktail Creation Challenge, where couples can stir up their perfect blend, or a vibrant sand art experience, layering colours to capture the essence of their bond. For those seeking adventure, a sunset cruise offers breathtaking views as the sky transforms into a canvas of gold and crimson, accompanied by light bites and soothing sea breezes. The day crescendos with live music by the Beatus band, setting a magical tone under the Maldivian stars.  Photo credits: Angsana Velavaru For ultimate relaxation, couple can indulge in rejuvenating spa rituals, such as the Citrus Serenity experience – a 90-minute massage followed by an orange milk bath. Romantic villa enhancements, including rose petal decorations, a bubble bath, and a bottle of sparkling wine, create the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening.  To make the celebration even more extraordinary, opt for an exclusive destination dining experience. A rooftop barbecue under the open sky or a private beachside dinner with the sound of waves as soundtrack elevate the Valentine’s escape. Capture the magic of the evening with a professional photoshoot, preserving the essence of love in timeless frame.

Louisville's oldest operating hotel is celebrating its rich history with a newly unveiled Great Gatsby suite ahead of the novel's centenary this April. Opened in 1905, the Seelbach Hotel has a storied past with a guest list that includes former U.S. Presidents, Academy Award winners, and famous musicians. F. Scott Fitzgerald, author of the classic American novel The Great Gatsby, is said to have frequented the hotel to imbibe in its infamous Rathskeller while on break from Louisville's Camp Taylor, where he was stationed in 1918 during World War I. Photo credits:  Seelbach Hotel  In honour of The Great Gatsby's 100th anniversary on 10th April 2025, the Seelbach Hilton Hotel has unveiled a newly renovated two-room suite embellished with Art Deco décor reflecting the opulence, bold colors, and glamour of the era. Designed by Louisville native Terra B. Nelson, founder of boutique consulting firm T.B. Nelson Hospitality Design, the two rooms of the suite were designed to highlight the dichotomy between The Great Gatsby characters Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchannan. In the Daisy-inspired bedroom, guests will find the look of established old money of Tom and Daisy: lavish but delicate, with the room featuring 1920's furniture, décor and vintage objets d'art including plush velvet armchairs, an Art Deco dresser turned mini bar and the three-tiered crystal chandelier. Other noticeable hints of the book's characters and places can be found on the walls, featuring photos of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Tom Buchannan, and Jay Gatsby, as well as coastal art representing the fictional towns of East and West Egg. “In order to get people talking, you have to give them something to talk about, and one of the best ways to do that is by creating spaces that go beyond functionality and aesthetics to offer vivid and unforgettable experiences,” said Terra B. Nelson, designer, and Founder of T.B. Nelson Hospitality Design. “We were able to add some really nice vintage pieces. One of my favorite features that brings the rooms together is the vintage green light that hangs by the door leading into the Daisy bedroom. The green light at the end of Daisy's dock is a recurring theme in the book, always calling Gatsby to her.” For food and beverage options, guests can visit the hotel's in-house breakfast spot, Gatsby's on Fourth, for an East Egg or West Egg omelette. Or, stop into the Old Seelbach Bar for a classic Seelbach Cocktail, a decades-old Prohibition-era-inspired libation that mixes Bourbon, champagne, and orange liqueur.   Additionally, to honour the literary milestone, Louisville Tourism has curated a "Guide to Gatsby's Louisville," highlighting key locations that influenced Fitzgerald's writing. In addition to the Seelbach, notable sites include the Cherokee Triangle where visitors can stroll through this historic neighbourhood, believed to have inspired the description of Daisy Buchanan's Louisville home. Alternatively, sample some bourbon on Whiskey Row and experience Louisville's bourbon heritage along Main Street, where Fitzgerald likely enjoyed the local spirits that influenced his portrayal of the roaring twenties.  To further celebrate the novel's anniversary, the city of Louisville will host a number of special events, one being the World Ballet Company's "The Great Gatsby.” On April 13, 2025, at the Louisville Palace, this new production will bring the book to life with a multinational cast of 40 professional ballet dancers, adorned in handcrafted costumes and performing against lavish sets reminiscent of the novel's opulent scenes.  The Seelbach's Great Gatsby Suite will officially be available to book on the hotel's website from 1st February. For guests who want to experience more of the hotel's opulent history, the Hilton property provides free hotel tours at 4:30pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The tour includes facts about the hotel's120-year history, with stops in the Oakroom, where Al Capone was said to have played cards, The Grand Ballroom, where Fitzgerald penned as the location of Tom and Daisy's lavish June wedding, and the Rathskellar, a one-of-a-kind historic space that was a USO during World War I and where Fitzgerald himself is to said have imbibed during his time off. For information on upcoming The Great Gatsby-themed events and a Gatsby's guide to Louisville, visit www.gotolouisville.com/Gatsby. For more information on the Seelbach visit www.seelbachhilton.com.

Festivities will be held at Azerai Ke Ga Bay and Azerai La Residence, Hue in Vietnam  

The Hari Hong Kong is greeting Valentine’s Day with a romantic stay replete with a chocolate strawberry bouquet and bubbles, an array of sublime dining experiences, and card writing to a special someone at a quaint “love trolley”. Photo credits: The Hari Hong Kong Standing 30-storeys tall on Lockhart Road in the heart of vibrant Wan Chai, the elegant hotel’s “Key to Your Heart” package offers loved-up couples a stay in one of the hotel’s luxurious rooms inclusive of daily breakfast for two, a welcome bottle of Prosecco, chocolate strawberry bouquet, HK$1000 dining credit, and early check-in and late check-out subject to availability. Priced from HK$2600++ per night and available for stays from February 1-16, 2025, the package is underpinned by rooms and suites imagined by renowned interior designer Tara Bernerd with views overlooking Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, The Peak and Victoria Harbour. Adorned with timber panelling, natural linen wallpaper, plush velvet upholstery and eccentric art, the bedrooms are separated from marble bathrooms by brass Crittal doors. Authentic Italian ristorante Lucciola and contemporary Japanese restaurant Zoku will each usher in Valentine’s Day on Friday February 14 with a special lunch from 12-3pm and two intimate dinner seatings from 6-8pm and 8:30-10:30pm. The Terrace, an alfresco terrace bar framed by greenery, and The Lounge, a sitting area filled with art and books, will also offer Valentine’s Day menus from 3-6pm and 8:30-11pm. Lucciola’s Valentine’s Day set lunch and dinner menus feature a ‘Crudo di Mare’ starter comprising freshly shucked oyster, tiger prawn, Alaskan king crab leg, black mussels and veraci clam, Amalfi lemon and cocktail sauce. The main course is a choice between four delectable dishes including ‘Tagliatelle 36x36 al Tartufo Nero’ made up of 36 egg yolk homemade tagliatelle, 36-month-aged Grana Padano Cheese, alpine butter and seasonal black truffle, and ‘La Tagliata di Manzo Americano’ underpinned by prime U.S. beef ribeye steak accompanied with wild rocket leaf and Vesuvian Datterino tomato, Aged Modena Balsamic Vinegar, and Aged Parmigiano Reggiano. ‘Tiramisu Rose, Fragole e Cioccolato’ dessert, a rose and strawberry tiramisu with white chocolate, rounds off the set menu that is priced for two persons at HK$1688++ for lunch and HK$1988++ inclusive of coffee or tea. Photo credits: The Hari Hong Kong Zoku’s Valentine’s Day set lunch and dinner menus begin with a moriwase sashimi platter brimming with premium seasonal fish and seafood, with an optional half dozen fresh seasonal oysters with lime and ponzu for an additional HK$168. After a choice of either tempura, miso foie gras or snow crab, uni and tofu, diners select one of five main courses, ranging from koji duck leg confit with shio koji, Jerusalem artichoke, and pickled myoga to U.S. prime beef ribeye with baked sweet potato, kabocha, and yellow chili sauce to lobster tsukemen noodles; a spicy lobster soup with Okinawa soba noodles. Priced for two persons from HK$1688++ for lunch and HK $1988++ for dinner inclusive of coffee or tea, the set menus are topped off with fondant chocolate cake with coconut sorbet and Amarena cherry. The set dinner menu also features a course of makimono and nigiri. The Terrace and The Lounge will serve “guilty pleasures” such as rose and strawberry tiramisu with white chocolate, and a white and dark chocolate strawberry bouquet with a glass of Perrier Jouet Grand Brut Champagne, priced at HK$138++ and HK$288++ respectively. A selection of cocktails, wines, sweet wines, and bubbles is also on offer at all four dining venues. As part of The Hari Hong Kong’s #SpreadTheLove campaign, from February 13-15 guests and residents from the hotel’s neighbourhood are encouraged to share drawings or messages of appreciation - directed to an individual special to them or a general message of appreciation - on the hotel’s Love Trolley. The three most creative cards, selected by The Hari Hong Kong’s team, will win prizes. First prize is a one-night stay in a Premium Corner Room with breakfast for two valued at HK$4,475. A ‘Weekend Brunch’ with two-hour free flow of wines and cocktails for two at Lucciola valued at HK$2,015, and the four-course ‘Discovery Zoku Tasting Menu’ for two at Zoku valued at HK$1,514 are the second and third prizes respectively. For a valid entry into the competition, participants must undertake the following steps: 1. Write a message or create a drawing on a #SpreadTheLove card 2. Hang the card on the Love Trolley using the provided ribbons 3. Take a photo of their card on the Love Trolley and share it as an Instagram story or post (the account must be public) 4. Tag @theharihk and add hashtags #SpreadTheLove #TheHariHK For more information, visit https://www.thehari.com/hong-kong/ To book the ‘Key to Your Heart’ package contact Rooms Reservations on bookme@thehari.com or +852 2129 0398. To book a Valentine’s Day dining experience at Lucciola Restaurant & Bar or The Lounge, email lucciola@thehari.com or +852 2129 0333. To book a Valentine’s Day dining experience at Zoku Restaurant & The Terrace, email zoku@thehari.com or call +852 2129 0338.

The National Forest is thrilled to announce the return of the National Forest Walking Festival, marking its 16th year of celebrating the beauty and accessibility of this unique and ever-growing landscape. Taking place from May 16 to 26, the festival invites walkers of all ages and abilities to explore a transformed environment that perfectly blends nature, community, and sustainability. Spanning 200 square miles across Leicestershire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire, the National Forest is a bold and visionary project connecting two ancient forests—Charnwood and Needwood—through a mosaic of newly planted woodlands, meadows, hedgerows, and waterways. What was once a landscape scarred by coalfields and clay pits has been reimagined as a thriving green space, teeming with wildlife and biodiversity. Today, the National Forest stands as a beacon of regeneration and sustainability. Through planting trees, caring for woodlands, and managing habitats, the Forest and its partners continue to demonstrate how nature and people can thrive together. As the world calls for more trees, the Forest provides a thriving example of how the natural environment can drive recovery and inspire a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future. This year's Walking Festival showcases the incredible diversity of the National Forest through a wide range of guided walks and outdoor experiences. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or taking your first steps into nature, the festival has something for everyone: Gentle, Accessible Walks: More than 20 routes under three miles, ideal for families, those with limited mobility, or anyone seeking a relaxed exploration. Buggy-friendly parkland trails and well-surfaced paths ensure accessibility for wheelchairs, trampers, and mobility scooters. Sensory Experiences: Thoughtfully curated walks designed to engage the senses, offering a unique way to connect with nature for those with sensory needs. Beginner Adventures: Guided nature-bimbles, like the stroll around Beacon Hill to explore tree life and wildlife, perfect for those new to walking. Challenging Treks: Energetic ten-mile routes through iconic landscapes, such as Calke Abbey and its reservoirs, for those seeking adventure and spectacular views. This year's walks are made possible thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers who lead and support the festival's events. These passionate individuals bring their local knowledge, enthusiasm, and love for the National Forest to guide walkers on routes that showcase the best of the region. Whether offering insights into the area's history, pointing out hidden wildlife, or ensuring everyone feels welcome and safe, their commitment lies at the heart of the festival. Zoe Sewter, volunteer and wellbeing officer at the National Forest, said: “The festival wouldn't be possible without the dedication of its incredible volunteers. “Their hard work ensures that the National Forest Walking Festival continues to grow, bringing together communities and celebrating the Forest's remarkable transformation from industrial land to vibrant green spaces." “The Walking Festival embodies the spirit of the National Forest, a living testament to the power of nature to inspire policy, research, and practice." “Each step taken during the festival is a celebration of how people and nature can not only coexist but can thrive together.” Join the fun this May to experience the magic of the National Forest Walking Festival and discover the inspiring story of a landscape that has been reimagined, replanted, and regenerated. Whether it's a gentle stroll or an invigorating hike, every walk is a step towards a greener future. For more information about the festival and to explore the full programme of events, visit www.thenationalforestwalkingfestival.org.uk.

Metropole’s popular annual Tet market returns, along with a special culinary program