Disney Reveals More Details About New Star Wars-Themed Lands!

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Designed across 14 acres, Disney promises to immerse fans in the Star Wars galaxy like never before. With Star Wars-themed lands planned for Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, Disney’s Imagineering has joined forces with Lucasfilm to bring these galaxies to life. Star Wars-Themed Land Artist Concept Disneyworld Disney gave fans a bit of a sneak peek with some illustrations during the “Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60” special that aired on February 21st of the epic scale of these new lands. Star Wars-Themed Land Artist Concept Disneyworld Disneyland According to the Disney Blog, guests will be able to step aboard The Millennium Falcon and actually pilot the fastest ship in the galaxy, steering the vessel through space, firing the laser cannons, in complete control of the experience. Star Wars-Themed Land Artist Concept And with the arrival of the First Order to the planet, visitors will find themselves in the middle of a tense battle between stormtroopers and Resistance fighters. Star Wars-Themed Land Artist Concept Disneyworld While an official date hasn’t been released for the Star Wars lands to open, the folks over at Micechat have created a map that estimates where it will be in the park. Star Wars Land Map viA Micechat

Adventures by Disney Announces New U.S. Destinations For 2016

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Adventures by Disney offers travelers top notch excursions, exclusive experiences and accommodations while they travel to destinations all over the world. Adventures By Disney Announces - Family River Cruising Itineraries This year the company has announced they will expand their list of destinations to include three new United States cities.   Beginning this summer, travelers can experience Central Florida, Montana, and Washington, D.C. & Philadelphia in an unforgettable way. Each of these week long trips is filled with activities unique to the destinations visited.
“Adventures by Disney is proud to showcase the majestic landscapes, riveting history and diverse experiences available throughout America on these and other itineraries,” said Ken Potrock, senior vice president of Adventures by Disney. “Now is a wonderful time to explore the United States, and with the addition of these vacations weve found new ways to offer exciting, varied activities that appeal to every member of the family.”
Highlights of these new Adventures by Disney itineraries include: Walt Disney World Resort & Central Florida This unforgettable and unprecedented trip includes backstage access and magical VIP experiences at the Walt Disney World theme parks, exclusive dining opportunities, outdoor adventures in the wilds of Florida, a private lunch with an astronaut and more. Adventures by Disney Disney world Castle
  • Take part in a privately guided safari at Disneys Animal Kingdom theme park and go behind the scenes of the revolutionary Rivers of Light show before taking a VIP seat to enjoy this new nighttime spectacular.
  • Savor unique world-class dining opportunities, such as an exclusive dinner at Disneys Contemporary Resort chefs kitchen.
  • Learn how Disney magic is created and receive special behind-the-scenes access during one-of-a-kind experiences with Walt Disney Imagineers.
  • Enjoy special Disney FastPass+ selections at the Walt Disney World theme parks, including premium access to Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Toy Story Mania! and other popular attractions.
  • Explore Central Floridas unique natural wonders on land – by zipline, swamp buggy and on horseback – and on water in kayaks and aboard an airboat.
  • Go in-depth with an astronaut and learn firsthand what it takes to soar into space.
Adventures by Disney Central Florida Montana This exhilarating adventure includes “glamping” (glamorous camping) adjacent to Yellowstone National Park, a dude ranch experience in beautiful Big Sky, and active excursions through amazing natural landscapes.
  • Enjoy the adventure and serenity of upscale camping, explore nature while biking in the backcountry and listen to storytelling under the stars.
  • Get hands-on at an authentic dude ranch complete with fun family activities like horseback riding, whitewater rafting, fly-fishing and a private riverside cookout.
  • Experience the wonders of Yellowstone National Park during the centennial of the National Parks Service and witness the explosive power of Old Faithful.
Washington, D.C. & Philadelphia Experience American history in an exciting, interactive way as it comes alive on this immersive adventure at some of Americas most iconic landmarks, including delightful encounters with characters from the past, a fun-filled scavenger hunt and storytelling at every stop along the way. Adentures by Disney Philadelphia
  • Delight in a sweeping tour of Philadelphia on a privately guided trolley excursion to remarkable landmarks such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and the Reading Terminal Market.
  • Walk in the footsteps of such historical figures as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and Betsy Ross while visiting Washington, D.C. landmarks, including the Capitol, Library of Congress, the Newseum and more.
  • Discover the history of Gettysburg on a fun, interactive tour that details this famous battle, President Lincolns speech and the lifestyle of the era.
For more information, please visit the AdventuresbyDisney website.

Four Seasons Announces 9 New Hotel and Resorts To Open in 2016

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The Four Seasons is looking to make a splash in 2016 by opening 9 new hotels around the world.  Well known for their luxurious amenities and well appointed suites, the brand takes their reputation to the next level with chic outdoor spaces, diverse cuisine options and innovative designs.

Planned Four Seasons Openings in 2016

Abu Dhabi, UAE – The first Four Seasons in the Emirati capital will be 200-room Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, in the heart of the new Central Business District.

Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island

The striking new building is on a prime stretch of waterfront adjacent to the new ADGM Square complex, home of the new Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. A retro-modern Chicago steakhouse, a cocktail bar, and a poolside restaurant with sweeping views overlooking the sea are among an array of dining options planned. The building will also house 124 private and serviced residences.

Bogota, Colombia – The second of two additions to the brand’s South American portfolio, the modern, 64-room Four Seasons Hotel Bogotá will also introduce an exciting new Japanese concept restaurant to a city that is receiving growing international attention as a destination for gourmands.

Four Seasons Hotel Bogota

Bogota is also attracting a new generation of cultural explorers interested in its rich history and colourful contemporary art scene, not to mention its 5,200 parks and the surrounding mountains.

Dubai, UAE – Four Seasons entered the UAE with its beachfront resort in Dubai less than a year ago, and will opens its second location in the city next year – this time in the heart of the 100 acre (45 hectare) downtown business district with the 106-room Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre.

An 8th floor sky bar boasting Burj Khalifa views with a cigar room on the mezzanine is among the food and beverage options, while the rooftop pool and garden will provide a welcome oasis in this fast-paced city. Interiors by Tihany Design.

Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre

Kuwait City, Kuwait –The first Four Seasons in Kuwait will be the 263-room Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya in the central business district.

Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya

An Italian dining concept created around three wood-burning ovens as well as a pan-Asian restaurant – both with outdoor terraces on the penthouse level – will be among five food and beverage options. Interiors by Yabu Pushelberg will include a spectacular indoor pool in the beautifully designed spa and fitness complex.

Kyoto, Japan – The 124-room Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto will be the company’s second destination in Japan, in the city’s historic Higashiyama-ku district, close to the Kyoto National Museum and myriad heritage sites such as the Toyokuni Shrine and Kiyomizu Temple.

Local artists will be featured throughout the traditionally-inspired modern décor characterised by an understated Japanese aesthetic.  The Hotel will have a spa and fitness centre with a pool, and four food and beverage concepts.  There will also be 57 Four Seasons Private Residences.

New York, New York, USA – Located in the heart of Lower Manhattan in the Tribeca district and just a short city stroll from the new World Trade Center, Wall Street and the trendy Soho neighbourhood, the 185-room Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown joins its renowned sister hotel in Midtown, offering travellers two excellent options in the city.

Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

The Robert AM Stern Architects building with interiors by Yabu Pushelberg will be home to an exclusive spa and fitness facility, naturally-lit event spaces, and soon-to-be-revealed street level restaurant and bar concept, as well as 157 Private Residences.

Oahu, Hawaii, USA – The highly anticipated fifth resort in the award-winning Four Seasons Hawaiian Collection and its first on Oahu, the 358-room Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko Olina is located beachfront on the island’s sunset coast, with easy access to recreational pursuits, historic sites and shopping. Resort features include multiple beaches and pools – several reserved for adults only – a multi-level spa and wellness centre plus on-site tennis and watersports, and preferred access at the Ko Olina golf club.

Event spaces can host up to 900 guests. New design by Philpotts Interiors will enhance the original building by architect Edward Killingsworth.

Surfside, Florida, USA – The exclusive 77-room Four Seasons Hotel The Surf Club revives the celebrated Surf Club in Four Seasons style, and will be the company’s fourth location in the Sunshine State.

Four Seasons Hotel The Surf Club

The 9-acre (3.6-hectare) complex with 965 feet (300 metres) of Atlantic beachfront will offer more than 40 beach cabanas among landscaped gardens and four pools.  Design architects for the Hotel and 150 Private Residences are Richard Meier & Partners.

Tianjin, China – Underscoring the continued strategic importance of China as both an inbound and outbound travel market, the 259-room Four Seasons Hotel Tianjin will be the brand’s 9th hotel in the country. Part of a mixed complex with an office tower and retail stores, the Hotel is in a pedestrian-friendly area near Nanjing Road, the city’s main east-west thoroughfare and Bingjiang Avenue, the city’s major shopping area.  With three food and beverage options and a spa and fitness facility with a pool, the hotel will be the first Four Seasons in China’s 4th most populous city.

7 Cruise Ships That Will Debut in 2016!

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As cruising continues to gain popularity as the way to see the world, Cruiselines are building bigger, more incredible vessels to get us there.  From unique culinary experiences to Broadway-like shows, cosmopolitan cabins to rip-roaring water attractions, lines will be taking the cruising experience to the next level this year! Here are 7 ships that you can look to hit the waters this year.  Which one are you most excited about? 1. Holland America Line – Koningsdam.   The new ship will be Holland America’s largest-in-fleet and first in its new Pinnacle Class. Holland America Line – Koningsdam - lido pool It will launch in April 2016 and feature Solo and family cabins, new dining venues, and farm-to-table dinners in the Culinary Arts Center.  Well known for being a more sophisticated cruise line, the Koningsdam has also been designed with a large space for their Club HAL, which provides a wide variety of exciting youth and teen-friendly activities for guests ages 3 to 17. Holland America Line – Koningsdam - club HAL Their new Family Ocean-view Staterooms will make traveling together more convenient and pleasurable, with accommodations for up to five guests — including additional closet space and two separate shower facilities. Holland America Line – Koningsdam family suite The 99,500-ton cruise ship will accommodate 2,650 passengers. 2.  Royal Caribbean Cruise Line – Ovation of the Seas.   The third ship in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class is set to hit the waters in April 2016. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line – Ovation of the Seas Redesigned specifically for the Asian market, this ship will have many of the features that make the Quantum class ships popular like RipCord by iFly, a skydiving simulator; North Star, a jewel-shaped glass capsule that rises 300 feet above sea level, and SeaPlex, a massive indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with that offers bumper cars, roller skating and flying trapeze classes. Madagascar Themed H20 Zone on Quantum of the Seas The 167,800-ton will accommodate 4,180-passengers.  Ovation will spend more of the Summer doing 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10 night cruises from Beijing Chine before moving on to Australia at the end of the year. 3.  Viking Ocean Cruises – Viking Sea.  Viking’s second ocean-going vessel will debut in April 2016. Viking Sea cruise ship Elements from the line’s first ocean ship, Viking Star, will be incorporated, including The Kitchen Table (a hands-on cooking experience), complimentary beer and wine at lunch and dinner, and some complimentary shore excursions. Viking Sea The 47,800 ton ship will accommodate 900 passengers and will sail on various itineraries in the Mediterranean starting in Spain. 4.  Carnival Cruise Line will debut their Carnival Vista in May, 2016, Carnival will introduce their largest-in-fleet, and first in its new Vista Class. CarnivalVista Cruise Ship 2016 This ship will undoubtedly take cruising to a new level with the introduction of an exciting array of groundbreaking new features including: SkyRide, a breakthrough suspended open-air cycling experience; the world’s first IMAX® Theatre on a ship; an expanded water park featuring the colorful Kaleid-O-Slide, the line’s first raft-riding water tube slide; Seafood Shack, a delectable New England-inspired eatery; RedFrog Pub, including the line’s first onboard brewery, and other enhanced dining, bar and entertainment options; as well as new scenic and family-friendly accommodation types. Carnival Vista skyride 3 Carnival Vista Beach Resort Pool The Carnival Vista debut May 1, 2016, with a 13-day cruise departing from Trieste, Italy — the first European voyage for Carnival in three years. A variety of spectacular Mediterranean itineraries will be offered with port calls throughout Italy, France, Spain, Croatia and Turkey, as well as several new destinations for Carnival such as Crete (Heraklion), and Corfu, Greece; Valletta, Malta; Palermo, Sicily; Cagliari, Sardinia; and Gibraltar. On October 21, 2016, Carnival Vista will embark on a special 13-day transatlantic crossing and arrive in New York November 3, 2016, then operate a series of voyages from the Big Apple. 5.  Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Harmony of the Seas will debut in June, 2016. Harmony of the Seas Royal Caribbean’s largest-in-fleet, and the third Oasis Class ship will have the line’s first-ever waterslides, an aqua park for kids, a 10-story slide, and full-length productions of the Broadway hit Grease. Harmony of the Seas water slides Supercell, Typhoon and Cyclone Harmony of the Seas will be the Largest Passenger Ship in the water bypassing it’s sisters Allure and Oasis by more than 2,000 tons weighing in at 227,700 tons.  It will have 2,744 passenger staterooms with a capacity of 6,360 passengers (5,488 double occupancy), an increase of 64 passengers over Allure and Oasis. It will debuts in Southampton on 22nd May 2016 before moving on to Barcelona on 7th June 2016. 6.  Set to launch in July, 2016, Regent Seven Seas Cruises’  Seven Seas Explorer will be the line’s largest ship. Seven Seas Explorer Designed with a brand new ship layout, the Explorer will feature all-suite, all-balcony cabins; two new specialty restaurants; and the line’s first culinary center, the Culinary Arts Kitchen. Seven Seas Explorer - suite   The 56,000 ton ship will carry 750 guests. Unlike other lines, veranda cabins on the Seven Seas Explorer start 307ft and begin at $9,000 per person for a 9 night cruise.  The penthouse offers almost double living space, but will set you back $16,000 per person.  A cool perk?  Cruisers who book this category or those above it will have their airfare covered!  Shore excursions are also included. The Seven Seas Explorer will spend the Summer in Italy before heading to France and Greece. 7.  Seabourn Cruise Line will debut the line’s largest ship, the Seabourn Encore in December 2016.  Seabourn Encore - exterior This ship will offer cruisers all-suite cabins with private balconies; a new restaurant from world-renowned chef, Thomas Keller; and expanded public areas. The ultimate luxury, the Seabourn Encore will only accommodate 208 guests and include design elements often found in private yachts. Seabourn Encore - main deck

23rd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival To Run For to 90 Days

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Two extra weeks of fun!  To celebrate its 23rd year, the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival will expand to 90 days and run from March 2-May 30, 2016, at Walt Disney World Resort. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival Famous for its outdoor Kitchens, Disney character topiaries, interactive play gardens and live rockin music – guests are sure to be excited when this year’s festival opens! Look for Donald Ducks mischievous nephews, Huey, Dewey and Louie, will make their topiary debut with Donald and Daisy at the parks front entrance garden, and Ranger Mickey Mouse in topiary form will appear for the first time to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Parks Service launched in 1916 to conserve the countrys natural scenic treasures. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival - frozen topiaries Fresh garden produce, savory bites and sweet treats will be abundant at the festivals Outdoor Kitchens, returning for a fourth year with guest favorites and new food and beverage offerings. When theyre not noshing along the World Showcase promenade, festival guests can dig in for a hands-on experience during Disney-led gardening seminars or grab a seat for pop musical performances during the Garden Rocks concert series at the outdoor America Gardens Theatre. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival The forecast for 2016 festival fun is sunny and bright:
  • In a horticultural nod to the brightest star in Earths orbit, Disney gardeners will paint the landscape with golden colors that will begin with a Floral Sun garden behind Spaceship Earth and yellow “sunbursts” that pop up across the Future World landscape. By night, twinkling lights will shine across festival gardens.
  • New culinary creations will star at the festivals Outdoor Kitchens where, for the fourth festival year, guests can taste garden- and spring-inspired food and beverages and have their complimentary Garden Passports stamped.
  • The first-ever Huey, Dewey and Louie topiaries will feature floral characteristics of Donalds nephews inspired by a 1943 Donald Duck comic book called “The Victory Garden.”
  • The Ranger Mickey topiary garden in Future World will offer a guest selfie and family photo opportunity featuring a Spaceship Earth backdrop.
  • An innovative new “Fab Five” play garden featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto and Donald Duck topiaries will debut with musical instruments built into childrens outdoor climbing systems.
  • Anna and Elsa topiaries will travel to the Norway pavilion festival landscape after their 2015 debut along World Showcase Plaza in a scene from the blockbuster Oscar-winning animated film, “Frozen.” Nearly 100 topiary characters, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Lady and the Tramp, Simba and Peter Pan, will animate the Epcot landscape surrounded by sweeping garden beds and exhibits.
  • The Garden Rocks concert series will present pop bands with music spanning four decades.
  • More than 10 mini-gardens will surprise guests around every corner. A new edible flower garden near Morocco pavilion will showcase petals with flavor.
  • The Butterflies on the Go garden will return with the story of the Monarchs epic journey across the continent and will feature butterflies emerging from their chrysalises.
  • Disney gardeners will lead weekend how-to Gardening Seminars at the Festival Center, where guests also can pick up signature festival merchandise. Guest experts will conduct complimentary seminars on a wide range of gardening and outdoor living topics.
  • When the sun sets, illuminated topiary and play gardens will glow brightly for an after-dark festival experience.
“We work hard every year to bring new features and fresh fun to our festival,” says Eric Darden, festival horticulture manager. “Were telling new stories with our flowers and plants, and every year there are surprises for our guests including new Outdoor Kitchen tastes.” Dozens of Disney-crafted “flower towers” and beds of multi-colored blooms will add to the floral splendor of the parks landscape.  At least 70,000 bedding plants will surround the Future World east and west lakes alone; on the water, 220 mini-gardens will be set afloat.

Nikon To Enter The Action Cam Market With 360-Degree 4K Camera

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Nikon really kicked it up a notch at CES on Tuesday by announcing three new 4K cameras, which will all hit the market this Spring.  While the D5 and D500 will be perfect for classic photography, their new KeyMission 360 is geared towards adventurers who want a camera that will capture their experiences. Nikon KeyMission360 - front left But what is extra awesome about this rugged camera is that it’s capable of recording true 360-degree video in 4K UHD, allowing users to share new perspectives and explore imagery like never before. The Nikon KeyMission 360 features an image sensor and lens on opposite sides of the device, with images from each combining to create a single immersive, ultra-high-definition 360-degree video and still image. Nikon KeyMission360 - top A terrific companion for a wide range of travel, sports or when an adventure takes a turn off the beaten path, the camera is designed be easy to use and withstand the elements. Waterproof (approx. 100 ft./30m), and ready to stand up to dust, shock and low temperatures, the KeyMission 360 also features electronic Vibration Reduction (VR), enabled through applications during playback, that reduces the effects of camera shake to help produce sharp and crisp video quality. The KeyMission 360 will officially be released in Spring 2016 and is expected to be priced under $1000.

Universal Orlando Announces Lineup For 2016 Mardi Gras Concert

Universal Orlando Resort is rolling out the red carpet for some of music’s biggest names for their 2016 Mardi Gras celebration! On select nights Feb. 6 through April 16, visitors can end their day with a family-friendly version of the famed “N’awlins” celebration at Universal Studios Florida. This year’s concert lineup features a diverse array of talent with something for everyone to enjoy. Headliners include rock band Fall Out Boy, teen pop sensation Shawn Mendes, Adam Lambert, country singer-songwriter Hunter Hayes and legendary entertainer Diana Ross. 2016 universal orlando mardi gras lineup This year’s Mardi Gras parade features 12 vibrant floats, including four new additions that celebrate different cultures and festivals from around the world – Venetian Carnival, Oktoberfest, 4th of July and Rio de Janeiro Carnival. All of the exquisitely detailed Mardi Gras floats are engineered by Blaine Kern Artists, the same company that has been hand-crafting floats for the iconic New Orleans celebration since 1947. Plus, guests can visit Universal Studios Florida’s very own French Quarter Courtyard to enjoy authentic Cajun cuisine and see performances by bands pulled straight from Bourbon Street. Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida. For more information on this vacation package and Mardi Gras, visit www.universalorlando.com/mardigras. 2016 MARDI GRAS TALENT LINE-UP
  • February 6- Hunter Hayes
  • February 13- Diana Ross
  • February 14- Barenaked Ladies
  • February 20- Nate Ruess
  • February 27- Fall Out Boy
  • March 5- Kool & the Gang
  • March 12- The Fray
  • March 13- Adam Lambert
  • March 19- Shawn Mendes
  • March 20- 3 Doors Down
  • March 26- REO Speedwagon
  • April 2- T-Pain
  • April 9- Jessie J
  • April 16- Yandel

Quebec’s Hôtel de Glace Set To Open on January 4th

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For the 16th year, Quebec’s Ice Hotel is almost ready to welcome visitors. Quebec's Hôtel de Glace 2016 - exterior Set to open on January 4th through to March 28th, the 44 room/suite ice palace has been completely re-designed for the 2016 Winter season. “From frozen glaciers to rivers flowing underground, visitors are free to explore the banks and meanders of rivers that capture the imagination.  Man and water join forces to take you on a voyage along imaginary rivers through a world of ice and snow, as you experience the Hôtel de Glace as a River,”  Pierre L’Heureux, artistic director of the Hôtel de Glace explained. Quebec's Hôtel de Glace 2016 - lobby This year the chapel will be separate from the Hôtel itself this year.  “We want to make it a special, more significant venue that will be at once awe – inspiring and intimate,” Jacques Desbois explained. Quebec's Hôtel de Glace 2016 - chapel Visitors can experience the hotel and the area many different ways.  You can visit the site for the day and tour the hotel, stay the night in one of their rooms/suites, or book a package through the hotel that pairs a one night stay with dining and adventure! The hotel offers guests 4 different room/suites
  • Hôtel de Glace rooms – The Hôtel de Glace room represents the original experience with its natural look. Intimate as an igloo, the regular rooms have one, two or three queen beds size to accommodate you.
  • Theme suites – The Hôtel de Glace theme suites impress by their unique design and their particular atmosphere. The sculpture made of ice or snow as well as the artistic lightning offer a memorable night.
  • Premium theme suite with fireplace – Enjoy the fascinating interplay between fire and ice in these magnificent suites. Especially made for the Hôtel de Glace, these fireplaces will definitely add a touch of magic to your stay.
  • Premium Deluxe Arctic Spas theme suite with fireplace and private spa – Treat yourself with the largest and most luxurious suite of the Hôtel de Glace. With its fireplace and its private spa, this exceptional suite is perfect for special occasion.
Friends of ours stayed last year and said that one night is perfect to experience everything the hotel has to offer. Unlike a regular hotel,  there is quite a bit of planning that goes into staying at an ice hotel so guests should be aware of the special requirements when packing for the trip.  The hotel offers some tips on how to pack on their website. For more information on Quebec’s Hôtel de Glace, please visit their website.

MSC Cruises’ Private Island To Offer Vacationers Spa Treatments & 2,000-seat Amphitheater

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For Cruise Operators, the private island is a haven where they can create exclusive opportunities for their vacationers. Royal Caribbean has Labadee and CocoCay, Disney has Castaway Cay, NCL has Great Stirrup Cay island, Holland America has Half Moon Cay and Princess Cruiselines has Princess Cays. Often located in the Bahamas, these exclusive destinations are only open to cruise passengers while the ship is in port, and they often have playgrounds, water parks, bars, shopping areas and nature trails that cruisers can use during their time there. Last week MSC Cruises confirmed it is joining the club now that it has leased Ocean Cay, an island about 20 miles south of Bimini, to be used as a private cruise ship destination for its vacationers! MSC Cruises to Create Exclusive Bahamian Marine Reserve Island Experience for Caribbean Cruise Guests At 95-acres in size and with 11,400 feet of pristine beach front spread across six distinct beaches, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve will be – by a large margin – the biggest island development by any cruise company in the Caribbean. In addition, as the only marine reserve island experience, it will offer a multitude of key distinguishing features. For example, a purpose-built berth and pier right on the seafront means that MSC Cruises guests will be able to step off the ship straight onto the island. Since a unique part of their visit will be the island’s night life in particular live music and entertainment at the 2,000-seat amphitheatre and many restaurants and bars, guests moving at leisure between ship and island will be especially convenient. In addition, the ship and all on board services – including the casino – will stay open while berthed at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. For MSC Yacht Club guests, an exclusive spa and wellness sanctuary with private bungalows and massage huts has been designated to the northwest corner of the island. Also, getting around the island will be a breeze, thanks to a network of walking and running paths, bicycle rentals and other stress-free transport options. Other highlights such as must-have water sports and beach games include: • A family beach with kids’ restaurant, play areas and other useful facilities • A charming inland lagoon for absolute tranquillity • A thrilling zip wire crossing the island • A pavilion for weddings and celebrations Construction on the island will start in March 2016 and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve will open to guests in December 2017. The cay will be used by all MSC Cruises ships serving the Caribbean region, notably MSC Divina and the under-construction ship MSC Seaside (launching December 2017, pictured below), both sailing from Miami, plus MSC Opera and MSC Armonia, sailing from Havana, Cuba. MSC Seaside

The Four Seasons Sparkles For The Holidays

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One of my favorite things about the holidays is checking out the extravagant exhibits that the stores and hotels put together. Over the past week the Four Seasons has been showing off some of their beautiful holiday displays from their hotels around the world. From thousands of crystals to designer gowns, the chain goes all out to woo their holiday guests.  Here are some highlights! At the Four Seasons Beverly Hills Wilshire, “Big time drama unfolds as guests walk through the grand entrance where luxury and exuberance meet through ornately dressed nutcrackers, gilded star bursts and beautifully decorated Christmas trees – including a stunning 11-foot (3.4 metre) tree centrepiece surrounded by 25,000 crystals.” Christmas Display at the Beverly Wilshire Beverly Hills The Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris’ holiday installation, which is called Arctic Fantasy, was created by their artistic director Jeff Leatham.   Two giant polar bears made out of mirror sit in the hotel’s marble courtyard, while penguins made out of a similar material add a whimsical touch to their lobby. Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris Christmas display The Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, California pulls out all the stops to create a Winter Wonderland for families this holiday season. On top of creating an incredible holiday display, they are offering families the opportunity to order an all-inclusive overnight package includes all of the luxury Hotel’s holiday experiences wrapped into one holiday-filled package. Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, California Christmas Display For the third year Lebanese designer Elie Saab has worked with the Four Seasons Beirut hotel to create an immaculate “Christmas Tree” in their lobby. The mannequin inside the installation wears designs from the label’s Fall/Winter 2015/2016 Haute Couture collection, entitled “Shades of Gold”. Elie Saab Christmas Display at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut. This festive season, Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti is offering a large number of festivities for guests looking to celebrate the Christmas and New Year holidays in the spectacular surroundings of the Serengeti National Park. Their holiday display incorporates many of the beautiful creatures that guests will see while visiting the area set to lights. Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania Christmas Display