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“Live Like a Local” Experience Reveals Vibrant Neighbourhood’s Hidden Gems  

From southern Thai islands to coastal Vietnam, and from the Indonesian archipelago to the cultural heart of Cambodia, Southeast Asia is home to some of the world’s most celebrated travel destinations. Luxury resorts in the region increasingly entice travelers with exclusive private villas offering unparalleled opulence and seclusion. Here is a look at some of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive private villas. Photo credits: Balcony Media Group A Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa Used recently as the location for a finale of US hit TV show The Bachelor, this majestic villa enjoys pride of place directly in front of tranquil Tubkaek Beach, some 30 minutes’ drive from the popular town of Krabi. It can be reserved as a three-bedroom unit or combined with two adjoining family beachfront villas to create a 7-bedroom wonderland of saltwater pools, canals, and balconies. Designed as a retreat for multigenerational family vacations and intimate wedding celebrations, Banyan Tree Krabi’s Presidential villa commands no less than 466 sqm and a palatial 1,240 sqm as a seven-bedroom arrangement. Among the additional amenities, guests will find four Smart TVs, a fully equipped kitchenette, a Nespresso coffee machine, a safety box, a Bluetooth clock radio, pillow menu, wine fridge, private pool and jet pool, as well as private gardens, terraces and balconies galore. Among several luxury options for guests - a private barbecue on the terrace of the beachfront villa with one’s own chef! Photo credits: Balcony Media Group The Ultimate in Privacy in Southern Vietnam Azerai Ke Ga Bay, an elegant and sophisticated beachfront resort in southern Vietnam, offers three extraordinary private villa options for guests. The 130sqm Pool Villas and 145sqm Pool Deluxe Villas feature private plunge pools (larger in the Pool Deluxe Villa), writing desks and spacious bathrooms with views to a private garden and a tub for soaking. The spacious Ke Ga Bay Villa is the ultimate couples retreat, boasting 185sqm of space with a master bedroom upstairs with ocean glimpses and multiple relaxation areas below including a large pool and terrace. The tasteful décor of the villas display a muted color palette of whites and granites echoing the shades of local sand and stone of the bay. Azerai Ke Ga Bay, situated 2.5 hours drive from Ho Chi Minh City, overlooks an expansive 5km stretch of white sand along the East Sea. This lush and private resort is nestled in 4.5 hectares of verdant gardens and its distinctive location provides a tranquil setting, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. Photo credits: Balcony Media Group French-Cambodian Style, Luxuriously Updated for Modern Tastes The two-bedroom Royal Villa at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor offers the ultimate in residential luxury, with a butler, pool access, master king and twin bedrooms, a spacious living and dining room and private terrace, three bathrooms, and a kitchen with views of the landscaped gardens at the historic heritage hotels’s iconic swimming pool. The 318sqm villa can accommodate up to six guests and, like all of the rooms and suites at the hotel, it is elegantly decorated in the French-Cambodian style of a bygone era, luxuriously updated for modern tastes. Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor was named one of the world’s “500 Best Hotels” by the industry-leading Travel + Leisure magazine in April for a third straight year. Originally opened in 1932, the hotel was built as a rest stop for archeologists and adventurers seeking to explore the ancient kingdom of Angkor Wat, which is today one of the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Photo credits: Balcony Media Group Spacious Oceanfront Luxury Villas in Da Nang, Vietnam Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang launched earlier this year in central Vietnam. The spacious beachfront resort overlooking the East Sea is spread across more than 15 hectares, with the palatial Five Bedroom Beachfront Pool Villa standing as the epitome of coastal bliss. Spanning an expansive 717sqm of indoor space, the villa comprises a majestic two-story main house featuring four king-size ensuite bedrooms and a twin room, complemented by large dining and living areas. The villa also offers a 150sqm private lounging area and pool, providing the utmost in tranquility on Non Nuoc Beach. Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang offers 85 upscale private villas in addition to a 157-key hotel tower. Photo credits: Balcony Media Group Paradisiacal Privacy in Phuket One of Phuket’s most desirable properties, Trisara is renowned for its paradisiacal privacy. Its collection of residences perched directly over the resort’s bay — which range in size from two-bed units to multi-bedroom configurations—rank among the most spectacular in Thailand. The pick of the residences is Villa Sawan, an eight-bedroom “resort within a resort”. Home to ocean-facing views, lush gardens, and use of a cove with a private beach at the foot of the property, Villa Sawan is the ultimate exclusive escape. Guests can take a dip in the Andaman Sea or unwind by swimming laps in the 25-metre swimming pool. Staff are available and on-call throughout the stay. The villa also features a home cinema, a well-equipped gym, and spa facilities. Expansive suites, sea-facing verandahs, and extensive swimming pools are prominent in all the residences’ blend of indoor and outdoor spaces that lend themselves to intimate gatherings. Adding lustre to the proceedings is the fact that all the villas are catered for by a dedicated maid and chef who prepares home-cooked Thai and Western dishes on demand and by request. With privacy guaranteed, the residences are also perfect for special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, marriage proposals or celebrations with extended family or with groups of friends. Photo credits: Balcony Media Group Infinity-Edge Pools With Mesmerizing Sea Views Laguna Lang Co has burnished its status as one of Vietnam’s most alluring integrated destinations courtesy of its recently launched three-bedroom Banyan Tree Seaview Pool Villas. Laid out along a jungle-clad mountainside at the northern end of the property and perched at an altitude of 45 to 75 meters above sea level, the ultra-luxe villas rank among the most desirable accommodations in the nation. The villas, each of which spans an expansive 260sqm, offer three bedrooms with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass that optimizes the mesmerizing sea view. Private living spaces feature tasteful, contemporary furnishings, carefully chosen artworks and subtle exterior and interior design influenced by the traditional architecture of Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, which is an hour’s drive north of Lang Co. Each unit has its own outdoor heated infinity-edge pool. Long views over the ocean towards Laguna’s 3km-long stretch of private beach are arguably the most outstanding feature of the villas. Photo credits: Balcony Media Group A Famous Indonesian Architect’s Former Abode in Ubud Once the private retreat of one of Indonesia’s foremost designer-architects, the Hadiprana Estate at Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, is a sanctuary within a sanctuary. The 570-square-meter (6,135-square-feet), two-bedroom villa features private en-suites, with the master bath anchored by a secluded, sunken outdoor Jacuzzi. A spacious deck and bale surrounds a 10-meter long swimming pool. A museum-worthy collection of art and artifacts, collected by the late Hendra Hadiprana himself, graces the white-washed brick walls and complement the modern Balinese furnishings of this completely private residence. Photo credits: Balcony Media Group Multigenerational Travel a Breeze at Cavernous Oceanfront Pavilion Alma’s crisp and contemporary three-bedroom oceanfront pool pavilions each command some 224sqm on the buttermilk sands on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula. The luxurious pavilions each afford a private pool with an infinity edge, four bathrooms, a vast living room and kitchen just a few steps from Long Beach’s aquamarine waters with islands strewn offshore. The design of the oversized accommodations caters to multigenerational travel for up to four generations; there’s a bathroom and toilet each for the children, the parents, the grandparents and either the great-grandparents or the in-laws. A big fold-out sofa and a large table in the living room encourage families to come together to talk, share a meal and play board games. Photo credits: Balcony Media Group Dreamy Villas For The Honeymooners The Anam Cam Ranh, a luxurious 12-hectare resort overlooking Long Beach on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula, is home to two exquisite villas just for honeymooners, each replete with a private pool, jacuzzi, steam and sauna room and daily afternoon tea. With a design inspired by Vietnam’s Indochine era, the 180-square-metre ‘Honeymoon Villas’ are both set on 400 square metres of lush hillside land located adjacent to the grounds of the resort’s tranquil 10-treatment room spa. The picture-perfect one-bedroom villas each feature a separate living room, jacuzzi, steam and sauna room and private terrace with sun loungers overlooking a glassy-surfaced 40-square-metre private pool. The villas’ romantic appeal draws on the Indochine period with the likes of imperial style roofs, big-bellied water vases, lanterns, and customized mosaic tiles.    

Through a collective vision and a range of collaborative initiatives, the Greek island safeguards a viable and sustainable destination for future generations. Additionally, the destination celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Enfield 8000, an electric car built on the island

Immerse with Marine Exploration and Eco-Conscious Adventure in Paradise

Carbis Bay Estate are delighted to announce the launch of POD St Ives, a new luxury glamping offering set amidst the scenic beauty of St Ives and Carbis Bay defining 'The Art of Glamping.' Photo credits: Carbis Bay Estate POD St Ives offers a range of five glamping pods, from quirky one-bedroom mezzanine boltholes with outdoor bathtubs to expansive two-bedroom lodges with private hot tubs. The PODS start from £295 per night and there are three styles to choose from: SPA POD: Sleeps 4 in two large ensuite bedrooms with cosy, comfortable beds and soft fluffy duvets and pillows, a living space flooded with light in which to relax and unwind by the fire, and fully fitted kitchens with a stunning breakfast bar and seating provide the perfect perch for gathering while cooking or entertaining. Outside is a snug covered decking area with snuggle-up sofas for evening star gazing, and steps leading to the enclosed Cornish walled garden where a hot tub, outdoor shower and woodstove can be found. FAMILY POD: Sleeps 4 in two bedrooms, one double and one cosy twin with comfortable beds, home-from-home styling, fully fitted kitchen and open plan living space with TV, sofas and a feature fire. An enclosed Cornish walled garden with hot tub, outdoor kitchen and terrace. MEZZANINE POD: Quirky and packed with comfort and style, one-bed glamping pods, perfect for a couple's bolthole, feature a mezzanine level which offers a magical glamping experience with a quirky twisting wooden tree-shaped spiral staircase leading to the raised sleeping area. Outside, a decked area with sofa seating leads to the enclosed garden with a copper bathtub and shower for a soak under the stars. Stays all include a continental breakfast delivered to your door each morning, and whilst guests are welcome to enjoy the restaurants and deli café at Carbis Bay, the Concierge team can also arrange to stock their larder with food and drinks, and any treats for their stay. There is also a delivery menu of grazing boards and handmade pizzas available for 'Pod-service'. Photo credits: Carbis Bay Estate All PODS have parking and private enclosed gardens and are dog friendly. Guests can also enjoy access to soon-to-launch "Nest Spa Garden," featuring a treatment room, a sauna cabin, relaxing spa seating and an ice bath for those brave enough for a dip! All guests of POD St Ives also receive complimentary access to the C Bay Spa at Carbis Bay Estate to use the facilities including a heated outdoor swimming pool, hydro pool, sauna cabin, fitness suite, and a yoga room. Spa treatments can also be booked in the privacy of your own pod. Owner of Carbis Bay Estate Stephen Baker said “We are proud to introduce POD St Ives, part of the Carbis Bay Collection, an innovative glamping experience that combines luxury with the natural beauty of Cornwall's coastline. Our aim is to offer guests an immersive retreat where they can unwind and reconnect with nature, while enjoying the exceptional amenities and comfort that define Carbis Bay Estate. POD St Ives represents our commitment to creating unforgettable, sustainable travel experiences in this incredible location." POD St Ives provides an oasis of tranquillity in which to reconnect with nature all year round. Located close to the towns of St Ives and Carbis Bay with their many beaches, POD St Ives is perfectly placed to explore the local walks on the doorstep, activities, restaurants, bars, and local events.

Japanese traditions have always heavily inspired global wellness trends - from shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and qi spots to Kon Mari. Here ways of mindful living and longevity are passed down the generations through a combination of unmodified foods, being out in nature and, of course, an ancient Onsen culture. Visitors to the Setouchi region can explore this proactive approach to preventative wellness on a bike trail spanning approximately 70 km between the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, at Japan’s oldest hot spring resort and by ‘brewing’ themselves in an historic sake-factory turned-guesthouse.  Photo credits: Setouchi Travel Be yourself and brew yourself in Mitoyo City  Mitoyo City in Setouchi’s Kagawa prefecture is home to all kinds of reflective and rejuvenating experiences. Chichibugahama Beach is a popular bathing spot but is also known for a natural phenomenon, the Mirror of the Heavens. Occurring at low tide when the shallow tide pools along the wide sandy beach seamlessly reflect the sky it’s best experienced at sunset on a still evening. Climbing to 352 metres above sea-level offers another perspective of the water from the top of Mt Shiude. The summit provides views of the Seto Inland Sea and its islands to the north, east and west and an ascent surrounded by hydrangeas in summer and cherry blossoms in the spring. For a unique cultural immersion book a stay at the Mitoyotsuru TOJI, a private guesthouse in a Sake Brewery that was founded in 1877.  Guests are invited to ‘Brew a New You’ following a wellness ritual that mimics the sake-making process and utilises the old equipment. The experience includes husking (undressing), rinsing in a steaming bath, fermenting in bath salts made from sake lees in the Grand Brewing Bath that’s still fed by the same mountain-sourced groundwater, soaking in converted barrels, relaxing in the sauna, and then aging, or getting a good night’s sleep! Guests can also sample various sakes during their stay.   Rates at Mitoyotsuru TOJI start from 29,700 Yen (£151pp) per night (correct as of September 2024), check in 4 pm, check out at 10 am. The inn offers shared sleeping space for up to 11 guests.  Photo credits: Setouchi Travel Rejuvenate at Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring resort  Following the completion in July of a five-year restoration project, Dogo Onsen Honkan in Matsuyama once again offers a place to experience the sacred atmosphere of Japan. This symbolic bathhouse, the main attraction of the wider Dogo Onsen, has a history dating back around 3,000 years and is mentioned in Japanese mythology. Nearby are two additional bathhouses, Emmanji Temple and Hogonji Temple, a Sky Walk where visitors can enjoy a foot bath with a view, and the ruins of an historic castle built in the 14th century. In 1994 the Dogo Onsen Honkan was designated a National Important Cultural Property.  The bathing experience here is fed by 18 naturally flowing hot springs whose soothing alkaline waters are ideal for skin care, alongside the many other therapeutic benefits of balneotherapy. In this main bathhouse there are two public bath options - the main Kami no Yu (Bath of the Gods) and the smaller Tama no Yu (Bath of the Spirits), with four bathing courses to follow in separate male and female areas.  On the upper floors of the building are relaxation spaces where visitors can relax in a traditional yukata robe, take a tour of Yushinden, the Japanese Imperial Family’s private bathroom, and, if the timing’s right,  hear the sounds of the drums. This sound was first struck to signal the time, and has been the signature sound of Dogo Onsen Honkan since 1894.  Dogo Onsen Honkan is open between 6 am and 11 pm daily (last admission at 10.30 pm). It is open year-round except for year-end cleaning. Entry fees range from Yen 700pp (£3.50) to Yen 2500pp (£13.50) depending on access and duration. A guided tour of the Emperor’s bathing facilities cost Yen 500pp (£2.70). All prices are correct as of September 2024.   Photo credits: Setouchi Travel Cycle the 70km Setouchi Shimanami Kaido sea road  The Shimanami Kaido is a scenic cycle route that opened in 1999 connecting Onomichi city in Hiroshima prefecture and Imabari in Ehime, and has been cited as one of the best cycling spots in the world. The route traverses more than six islands in the Seto Inland Sea, including Mukojima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima,  Omishima, Hakatajima and Oshima, with seven connecting bridges. The 4,100-metre Kurushima Kaikyo  Bridge between Oshima and Imabari was the world’s first triple-suspension bridge. The islands are known for their Mediterranean climate, quiet fishing villages and temples, and the Shimanami Kaido connects the different attractions of each island - from the area’s storied pirate history and the 700 Buddha statues on Innoshima, to Ikuchijima’s lemon groves and the fruit-forward craft beers and thalassotherapy of  Omishima. Bicycles can be rented on both sides of the Shimanami Kaido - in Onomichi City (Hiroshima side) at Shimanami Rental Cycles and in Imabari City (Ehime side) at the Imabari Central Cycling Terminal,  allowing visitors to enjoy the route in either direction. There are also additional rental locations along the way as well as around 140 cycle oases offering rest stops, guest houses and bicycle maintenance bases with facilities such as air pumps and bike stands. For experienced cyclists the whole route can be completed in around four hours but most people take at least two days to fully enjoy the route. There are cycle ships that operate between the islands so cyclists can return to their starting point by ferry.  Alternatively, they can take advantage of the Cycling Without Baggage service offered by participating hotels, hostels and ryokans which takes care of transporting luggage between accommodation stops along the route so guests can cycle freely and then continue on their way.  Onomichi Port is open between 7 am-7 pm (March to November) and 8 am-6 pm (December to February). Imabari Central Cycling Terminal (Sunrise Itoyama) is open between 8 am-8 pm (March to November) and 8 am-6 pm (December to February).   All these experiences are part of Setouchi Journeys, a series of 23 carefully curated tours through the Setouchi region that last between three and five days. For more information visit www.setouchi.travel/en/setouchi-journeys   The Setouchi Region is located in western Japan and surrounds Japan’s largest inland sea. To access the region from the UK there are direct flights to Tokyo from London Heathrow with British Airways and Japan Airlines, from there it is a 4.5 - 5-hour journey via Shinkansen to stations in the region including Shin-Kobe, Himeji, Okayama, Hiroshima and Shin-Yamaguchi. 

Japan’s Setouchi region invites art lovers and cultural explorers to embark on an inspiring journey through its rich heritage and stunning landscapes. This enchanting destination offers a deep dive into Japan’s history of art and cultural tapestry, featuring historic landmarks, traditional craftsmanship, and breathtaking vistas through a variety of unforgettable experiences. Photo credits: Setouchi Journeys A Picturesque Voyage Aboard the La Malle de Bois Art Train Step aboard La Malle de Bois, which translates as ‘a wooden suitcase’, that elegantly winds through the Setouchi region and along the coastline of the Seto Inland Sea. This scenic journey is a moving gallery both inside and out with monochromatic artwork on the exterior and a dedicated exhibition space showcasing works by contemporary artists - presenting travellers with awe-inspiring views and artistic inspirations from the heart of Japan. La Malle de Bois not only provides modern comforts, including bookshelves filled with books about art and space for bicycle storage which is very rare on Japanese trains, but also pays homage to traditional Japanese art and craftsmanship, ensuring a travel experience steeped in beauty and culture. Throughout the year, La Malle de Bois runs on 4 routes: Okayama–Uno, Okayama–Onomichi, Okayama–Hinase and Okayama–Kotohira.Each of them providing access to major tourist destinations in the SetoInland Sea. Those visiting this autumn, can enjoy "The Forest Festival of the Arts Okayama" with a special route providing access to installations by artists, musicians, architects, flower artists and chefs that celebrate forests and Japanese nature. The festival is being held between 28th September to 24th November in twelve cities and towns including Tsuyama, Nimi, Maniwa and Kagamino in the Chugoku Mountains in the northern part of Okayama. Train prices range from £6.40 to £13.40 depending on destination. Reservations for meals can be made from one month prior and up to three days before the journey. Options include a Setouchi Sweets Box (Yen 1,500 Yen) of five mini tarts using local seasonal fruits, and an Okayama Barazushi Travelling Small Box (Yen 1,350) featuring local specialities from the Seto Inland Sea. Reservations for bike storage space can be made from 10.00am one month prior up until a day before travel. Photo credits: Setouchi Journeys Explore the Historic Charm of Takehara Townscape Conservation Area Step into history in Takehara City, Hiroshima, where the Takehara Townscape Conservation Area offers a glimpse into Japan’s storied past. This area boasts over 100 well-preserved townhouses dating back over 400 years and testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Stroll the streets, visit the Takehara City Museum of History and Folklore (open 10am-4pm with last admission at 15:30, closed on Tuesdays and between December 27-January 3) or time a visit during seasonal events including the springtime Hinamatsuri festival - a display of Japanese “Hina Dolls” where visitors pray for the growth and happiness of girls, or the autumn Illumination festival when the town is lit up with bamboo candles. Visitors can also discover the time-honoured tradition of bamboo craftsmanship and try their hand at traditional bamboo weaving with instruction from an expert craftsman. Renowned for its bamboo works, this city has been a central hub for this art form since the era of salt production. Its name synonymous with this tradition, Takehara, meaning bamboo plain in Japanese. Today, Takehara’s bamboo artisans continue to create a diverse array of items, from practical tools to intricate decorative pieces such as bamboo baskets and ornaments.Visitors can join the bamboo craft experience, learning this age old tradition of experts and take home a memento. The Takehara Machinami Bamboo Workshop is open between 9:30 and 16:00 (closed for national holidays and over the new year). Photo credits: Setouchi Journeys Immersion in The Art Islands of Setouchi Visit the Art Islands of Setouchi - Naoshima, Teshima and Inujima - as part of a four-day tour of an areawhere contemporary art and traditional Japanese culture coexist. The combination of striking architectural designs, innovative art installations, and serene island landscapes creates a rich cultural fusion that attracts global art lovers, architects, and travellers seeking a unique and immersive experience. Naoshima is the most famous of Setouchi’s art islands and The Benesse Art Site Naoshima project, overseen by art collector and patron Soichiro Fukutake, has transformed Naoshima into a canvas for contemporary art. The project integrates art with architecture, creating a blend of modern design and the natural landscape. Here visitors will find Tadao Ando’s unique architecture, masterpieces by Monet and Warhol, and the Art House Project which transforms traditional Japanese houses into art spaces. Opened in April 2022, Naoshima Ryokan ROKA is a luxury ryokan that exemplifies the fusion oftraditional Japanese architectural style with modern design elements. This ryokan reflects the island’s art trend by integrating contemporary artworks into its space, providing eleven suites with open-air baths,Awaji earthen walls used in art sites, handmade Japanese paper from Tosa that conveys a thousand years of history and tradition, stepping stones from Aji, the highest quality and most expensive stone in Japan. And floor to ceiling picture windows that allow guests to immerse themselves in the island’s artistic atmosphere. Photo credits: Setouchi Journeys An Artistic Base in Okayama A&A HOTEL is a unique concept in Okayama - a series of rental accommodations created in collaboration with world-renowned contemporary artists and leading Japanese architects that act as a portal to experiencing the city. The idea behind the project, launched by the Ishikawa Foundation, is to promote art and culture in Okayama, blending contemporary comforts with local hospitality and revitalising the local community. Currently there are two houses available offering two double bedrooms and an extraordinary experience staying in a work of art. A&A Jonathan Hasewaga, is a merging of three spaces with three with distinct personalities, which provides a unique experience as guests transition through the different spaces. A&A Liam Fuji is a mathematical tribute to Syukuro “Suki” Manabe, Liam’s esteemed Nobel Prize winning physicist Syukuro “Suki” Manabe and the science of climate change. The project is expected to continue to add more spaces for visitors to enjoy over the next two decades. Rates start from £221 per night (correct as of September 2024), check in from 3pm-8pm and check out at 11am. All these experiences are part of Setouchi Journeys, a series of 23 carefully curated tours through the Setouchi region that last between three and five days. For more information visit https://www.setouchi.travel/en/setouchi-journeys. The Setouchi Region is located in western Japan and surrounds Japan’s largest inland sea. To access the region from the UK there are direct flights to Tokyo from London Heathrow with British Airways and Japan Airlines, from there it is a 4.5 - 5 hour journey via Shinkansen to stations in the region including Shin-Kobe, Himeji, Okayama, Hiroshima and Shin-Yamaguchi.

US photographer Patrick Koenig delivers a feast for the eyes with a stunning set of captures

Demonstrating its ongoing success, LUX* South Ari Atoll, the well-loved resort of The Lux Collective, has received three distinguished awards at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024, as voted by the acclaimed publication's international readers. These accolades solidify the resort’s reputation as a premier destination for family travel and luxury experiences in the Maldives. LUX* South Ari Atoll is awarded Top 10 for the following distinctions - Best House Reef in the Maldives, Best Hotel Pools in the Maldives and Best Resorts for Families in the Maldives. The awards celebrate the resort's unwavering commitment to excellence, exceptional guest experiences and innovative luxury offerings. LUX* South Ari Atoll Best House Reef in the Maldives LUX* South Ari Atoll has been recognised for its vibrant and diverse marine ecosystem, offering guests unparalleled snorkelling and diving experiences that highlight the natural beauty of the Maldives and South Ari Atoll – the only year-round whale shark aggregation site in the world. Veli Pool Best Hotel Pools in the Maldives The resort's two exquisite pools, known for their stunning designs and breathtaking views, have earned it the title of Best Hotel Pools in the Maldives, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and leisure. LUX* South Ari Atoll Best Resorts for Families in the Maldives LUX* South Ari Atoll has also been named one of the Best Resorts for Families in the Maldives, for its wide range of family-friendly amenities and activities to ensure an unforgettable holiday experience for guests of all ages. With 40 complimentary activities, a kids’ club, and a teens’ programme, there is something to fill each day with relaxation and adventure alike. "We are incredibly honoured to receive these prestigious awards from Travel + Leisure", said John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll. "These accolades are testaments to the dedication and passion of our team, who strive to provide our guests with extraordinary experiences. We remain committed to setting new standards in luxury hospitality and helping guests celebrate life through our diverse offerings." For more information about LUX* South Ari Atoll and its award-winning experiences, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.

Thrilling activities, calming spa experiences and family fun await guests this season at Madinat Jumeirah’s properties. In-house and day guests alike can indulge in rejuvenating treatments at special summer prices with savings of up to 50% the award-winning Talise Spa

A Fully Sponsored 30-day Journey Across Japan Awaits a Travel Enthusiast and Storyteller.

After launching ‘Your Summer Starts Here’ campaign, and as a part of the exciting summer calendar in Qatar, Visit Qatar is set to bring back the ‘Qatar Toy Festival’ the largest of its kind, starting mid-July. This year, the festival returns bigger and better than its predecessor, inviting families to enjoy new live shows and exclusive activations. Qatar Toy Festival brings to families live mascots, toys, performances, and play areas of their children’s favourite brands and characters. Qatar Toy Festival Qatar Toy Festival was inaugurated last year and debuted as one of the most successful events in the calendar. Qatar Toy Festival will commence on July 15 and run through till August 14 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The festival comprises of 10 Zones, spanning over 17,000 sqm, including 3 new Zones in this year’s edition. These are Preschool, Girls, Boys,Anime, Family, Movie Land, Stage, F&B, Theming Area, and Retail. The festival will include over 50 international brands, including fan-favourites Barbie, Marvel, LOL, Angry Birds, and Naruto. This year, the festival will see new brands including Mr. Bean and Barney, with live shows and 76 mascots. There will be parades and over 19 stage shows, which include musical shows and concerts, science shows, dance shows, competitions, influencers’ performances, like Rasha Rizg, the Adnaan family, the Tarfaan family, Fawzi Muzi, Blippi and Masaka Kidz and more. The festival will also host 5 retail stores and over 200 influencers. Commenting on the festival, Hamad Al Khaja, Acting Head of Events and Festivals Technical Support Section at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are delighted to announce the return of the Qatar Toy Festival this summer as part of Qatar’s summer calendar. Qatar Toy Festival is a great opportunity for families in Qatar seeking indoor entertainment. Activations are catered to children of all ages, as well as their parents and guardians to enjoy. The festival is not only engaging but also educational, encompassing a wide range of entertainment for the whole family. Qatar Toy Festival is a testament to Visit Qatar’s ongoing efforts for a diverse events calendar that serves all occasions, tastes, and ages." The festival provides children with the opportunity to meet and interact with their favourite toy mascots and influencers and is the ultimate family destination throughout the duration of summer. For reservations, tickets and family passes click on the links: Virgin MegaStore https://tickets.virginmegastore.me/ or at QTickets https://events.q- tickets.com/qatar/eventdetails/5980481474/qatar-toys-festival Qatar offers a steady stream of diverse events throughout the year. For more information on the latest events in Qatar’s calendar, please visit www.visitqatar.com.