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.
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
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.
Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives) in collaboration with the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) have jointly extended a special and open invitation to the Indian National Cricket Team, cordially congratulating them and offering an opportunity to celebrate their phenomenal World Cup victory in the Sunny Side of Life.
Maldives
Conveying heartfelt congratulations and praising their extraordinary achievement, the CEO & Managing Director of MMPRC, Mr Ibrahim Shiuree and the Secretary General of MATI, Mr. Ahmed Nazeer, expressed their strong enthusiasm for hosting the team stating “We would be honoured to host you and ensure that your stay is filled with memorable moments, relaxation, and bespoke experiences.” This invitation also highlights the strong and long-standing cultural and sporting ties between the Maldives and India.
The Maldives is the perfect locale for the Indian Cricket Team to celebrate their sporting excellence. As Mr Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & Managing Director of MMPRC, expressed, “It would be an immense honour for the Maldives to welcome the Indian Cricket Team and share in the joy of their triumph. We eagerly await the opportunity to host them, offering the perfect setting for them to create lasting memories of their victory celebration."
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is offering the “paw-fect” stay for fur parents and their four-legged mates with the introduction of its Pet Friendly program.
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is offering the “paw-fect” stay for fur parents and their four-legged mates with the introduction of its Pet Friendly program
The 208-room hotel, which debuted in July 2023 in the heart of Bangkok’s lively On Nut neighborhood, is rolling out the welcome mat for pet dogs. A welcome card, welcome bag of snacks, pet bed, bowls for food and water, and doggie bags for waste collection are among the hotel’s host of pet amenities.
Furry guests have access to the upper deck of the lifestyle hotel’s top floor, the 34th floor, which features outdoor lounges and is accompanied by sweeping vistas of Bangkok’s mesmerizing skyline. Situated adjacent to the hotel’s sky-high transparent infinity pool and a compelling interpretation of Bangkok’s Brahman structure The Giant Swing, the upper deck is serviced by the Giant Swing Bar that offers Mediterranean, Thai and international snacks and dishes such as INNSiDE’s Burger and beverages including imaginative cocktails.
Furry guests have access to the upper deck of the lifestyle hotel’s top floor, the 34th floor, which features outdoor lounges and is accompanied by sweeping vistas of Bangkok’s mesmerizing skyline
Other pet-friendly areas include the hotel’s ground lobby and 32nd floor. Comprising a reception area and the Open Living Lounge integrated into a vast coworking space, the 32nd floor’s soaring floor-to-ceiling windows provide a front seat to Bangkok’s skyline.
Only one dog is permitted to stay in an INNSiDE Room at an additional cost of THB 1200 (USD 33) per room per night. A maximum of two dogs are allowed in the Townhouse accommodations for an additional THB 2000 (USD 55) per room per night.
The hotel’s concierge team are also on hand to recommend “INNSiDE” knowledge about dog-friendly attractions and venues in the neighborhood and across Bangkok.
Other pet-friendly areas include the hotel’s 32nd floor. Comprising a reception area and the Open Living Lounge integrated into a vast coworking space, the 32nd floor’s soaring floor-to-ceiling windows provide a front seat to Bangkok’s skyline
“There’s no need to leave your pet behind and worry about the hassle of finding a dog sitter; our distinguished four-legged guests, an integral part of the family, are also welcome to enjoy the spoils of a getaway,” said the hotel’s general manager Aarron Nelson. “We aim to establish a genuine connection with both our human and pet friends from the outset”.
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s dog-friendly hospitality is part of Meliá Hotels International’s broader Pet Friendly program being introduced to select hotels globally. During the booking process, the reservations team will gather as much information as possible about the guest’s dog to help personalise the experience from the moment the guest and their furry companion set foot in the hotel.
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is part of a collection of unique urban and beach hotels in 14 different countries designed for those with curious minds who cultivate a fluid lifestyle when it comes to work and leisure.
The global hospitality Group and representatives from 17 international corporations form an advisory council to design and shape a new era of corporate travel and meetings for 2025 and beyond