Jet set to New Zealand and discover Kiwi wonders with direct flights from Cairns to Auckland available now

Air New Zealand

Cairns holidaymakers can now get ready to explore the stunning ski slopes and vibrant city life on offer across the ditch, as Air New Zealand has restarted its direct flights between Auckland and Cairns, available between 2 April and 26 October.

Customers now have the opportunity to make the trip to Aotearoa with direct Air New Zealand flights twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Additionally, there will be flights on Thursdays from 25 June to 26 October.

The new direct route to Auckland provides Aussies the chance to reach 20 destinations across New Zealand, using Auckland as the gateway. Travellers can explore vibrant cities like Wellington, immerse themselves in the natural beauty of iconic ski slopes on offer in Queenstown, or hit the wineries at destinations like Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough.

Air New Zealand’s General Manager of Australia Kathryn O’Brien says, “We’re thrilled to welcome our seasonal services back to Cairns and look forward to welcoming even more Aussies onboard over the next few months. The seasonal Auckland to Cairns service provides the perfect excuse for a getaway to explore New Zealand.”

“Whether you’re an adventure seeker, looking for a family getaway or a solo traveller, New Zealand has something for everyone, including stunning snow-capped mountains and pristine beaches.”

Events bringing visitors to Queensland

Yesterday it was announced that the world’s largest mountain bike festival, Crankworx, has added the ‘Party in Paradise’ entertainment program to attract even more visitors to Cairns next month.

Known as the ‘Paradise Edition’ of the Crankworx World Tour, the Cairns event is estimated to bring almost $7 million into the local economy. The addition of the entertainment program was made possible thanks to joint funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) following ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper and associated flooding.

This follows the recent announcemenYesterday it was announced that the world’s largest mountain bike festival, Crankworx, has added the ‘Party in Paradise’ entertainment program to attract even more visitors to Cairns next month.

Known as the ‘Paradise Edition’ of the Crankworx World Tour, the Cairns event is estimated to bring almost $7 million into the local economy. The addition of the entertainment program was made possible thanks to joint funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) following ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper and associated flooding.

This follows the recent announcement of the 'Savannah Sounds on the Reef' event aimed to drive visitors to the tropical north, which is being staged this Saturday and is spotlighting the Savannah in the Round event later this year.

Also contributing to the recovery of the Cairns and Great Barrier Reef region, Port Douglas Carnivale has announced two new additions to their stellar program as the event ramps up for its 30th anniversary.

This week has also been a big one for Brisbane events, with the countdown on for Suncorp Stadium hosting the first game of the first-ever three-game Ampol Women’s State of Origin series, which will kick off a four-day festival of Rugby League from 16 - 19 May with NRL Magic Round also taking place in Brisbane.

A family favourite, the annual Kalbar Sunflower Festival was held last weekend in the Scenic Rim, selling out once again with an estimated attendance of 16,000 to marvel at the roughly 1.5 million sunflowers. This event is supported through TEQ's Queensland Destination Events Program (QDEP - Round 28 currently open for applications) and is a great example of an accessible Queensland event, making it possible for as many visitors as possible to participate in this joyful event.

In 2024 Queensland’s events calendar is expected to generate $850 million for our state’s economy, demonstrating the power of events to bring visitors to the host destination.

QUEENSLAND EVENTS CALENDAR

ibis celebrates 50 years with expansion

Economy hotel chain Ibis will open new properties and launch a brand culture program in recognition of 50 years in the market.

The company has expanded to more than 2500 international locations during its 50 years and will grow its reach to 80 countries by the end of 2024.

The economy hotel chain will also launch a new brand culture program, global employee ambassadorship and brand campaign.

Chief commercial officer at parent company Accor, Karelle Lamouche, says ibis is known the world over.

“ibis democratised travel, making quality travel experiences possible for everyone, irrespective of budget,” she says.

“The 50th anniversary of ibis is not just a celebration, it’s a testament to five decades of unwavering dedication to making travel possible, offering caring hospitality for all and the brand’s undisputed leadership in the economy segment.

“For 50 years, we have welcomed and developed our people, giving them a foundation in hospitality excellence, fuelling their skills and passion.

The ibis brands are where people start their career and where people first start to travel.”

ibis opened its first hotel in Bordeaux, France, in 1974 before expanding to 2500 hotels in soon-to-be-80 countries when ibis Styles Reykjavik Muli, in Iceland, opens in late 2024.

“The 50th anniversary is about reinforcing our position as the leading brand in the economy hotel segment and embracing our future with renewed energy and enthusiasm,” says Lamouche.

“For 50 years, ibis has got the essentials right and delivered them with heart.

“People are the differentiator for ibis because we know you’ll get the most out of your trip when we put the most into your stay.”

Galle Dutch Hospital and the The Dutch Reformed Church

Galle Dutch Hospital

Galle Dutch Hospital

It’s a long, exquisitely restored storied building on Lehn Baan Street, by the big Banyan Tree. The 17 century Dutch hospital which once treated ailing solders, is now a fully refurbished happening dining den, housing rows of posh restaurants and luxury shops enticing the upmarket locals and tourists. A herbal garden nearby tells a story of how Sri Lanka Ayurveda potions may have rendered the better medicinal option. Many things in there have changed today, except its name: The Dutch Hospital!

Along the beautiful wooden verandahs you discover branded fashion outlets, a plethora of exclusive gem dealers ware and jewellery while the upper level of the building is another world of élite fine dining restaurants, bars, swanky shops, Ayurveda spas, and tea emporiums for the discerning. It’s ‘the place’ to buy your souvenir, precious blue sapphire gems or moonstone piece of jewellery while savouring your memorable island’s favourite seafood meal!

The Dutch Reformed Church

The Dutch Reformed Church

Built in 1640 it’s the oldest protestant church in the island. The church interior contains a pipe organ, an imposing pulpit made of calamander wood and a grand hexagonal canopy. This iconic Dutch Church building has massive tomb stones on the floor.

Sri Lanka Convention Bureau

✆ +94114 865050 ☏ +94112 472985
slcb@srilanka.travel
meetinsrilanka.com

Laugh, Dance, Cheer an Los Angeles April 27 - May 5

There's always something exciting happening in Los Angeles! From cultural events to superstar concerts, exciting nightlife and world-class sports, Discover LA is your go-to source for the latest and greatest in LA. Read on for highlights of coming attractions and book your stay today.

BOOK NOW

Arts & Culture

Los Angeles is home to a world-class collection of museums and cultural attractions. Best of all, you can view masterpieces at LA museums for free! From automotive to natural history museums, read our guide to more than 20 of the best museums in LA with free admission.

Upcoming cultural events include the biggest comedy festival in North America, the start of outdoor movie season and a new exhibit from a pioneering urban art duo.

Netflix is a Joke (May 1-12)

Netflix is a Joke Fest will feature the world's best comedians and artists performing 300+ live stand-up shows, special events, table reads, sketches and more. The 11-day festival will take over renowned venues like the Hollywood Bowl, Greek Theatre, Dolby Theatre, Kia Forum, the Palladium, Orpheum Theatre and the Wiltern; as well as historic comedy clubs, including the Hollywood Improv, Laugh Factory and The Comedy Store.Street Food Cinema: Barbie - The Autry (April 27)
Sebastian Masuda: Yes, Kawaii is Art - Japan House (May 2 - Nov. 3)
FAILE: Don't Stop - Control Gallery (May 3 - Jun. 15)
CLAY LA - Craft Contemporary (May 4-5)
Alice Wang: We Are Extraterrestrial - Vincent Price Art Museum (May 4 - Aug. 3)

FREE MUSEUMS

Concerts

On any given evening, Los Angeles hosts concerts spanning local bands and underground cult acts to national buzz artists and long-established chart fixtures. With these sometimes being the only regional stop on a U.S. tour, fans from all over Southern California and beyond converge on the city’s clubs, theaters, and arenas.

PinkPantheress - Hollywood Palladium (April 30 & May 1)

From TikTok sensation to headlining two nights at the Hollywood Palladium in just three years, England’s PinkPantheress is at a pivotal “Is she here to stay?” moment. On her debut album Heaven Knows, released last year, the critically adored PinkPantheress delivers short bursts of super-nostalgic hyperpop liberally laced with UK garage and D’n’B, building brilliantly seamless bridges between bedroom and dancefloor, introspection and overt display.Erick the Architect - El Cid (May 1)
Julia Holter - El Rey Theatre (May 3)
BeachLife Festival - Redondo Beach (May 3-5)
TLC - LA County Fair (May 4)
LADAMA - UCLA Nimoy Theater (May 5)

THE LA SETLIST

Nightlife

The calendar for stand-alone music events happening in Los Angeles is stacked. Amongst the draws for the final week of April are The Magnetic Field, who will be playing two sold-out nights at The United Theater on Broadway; award-winning singer/songwriter Andy Schauf at Pico Union Project; and local dub specialist Pachyman at the Lodge Room. There’s a lot more happening in the weeks ahead at LA’s nightclubs and concert venues, so keep reading.

deadmau5: retro5pective - Hollywood Bowl (April 27)

deadmau5 is celebrating his 20th anniversary with his retro5pective mini-tour across the U.S. His Hollywood Bowl concert will be the DJ/producer’s first performance at the iconic LA venue. For deadmau5 fans, this will be a night not to be missed!Love Connie "Showgirls" - Akbar (April 28)
James Zabiela - Station1640 (May 1)
G. Love - The Venice West (May 1)
Felix da Housecat - Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (May 2)
Das Bunker Star Wars Night - Catch One (May 4)

GET INTO THE GROOVE

Sports

Dodgers vs Braves (May 3-5)

It's time for Dodger baseball! Currently in first place in the National League West, the Dodgers will host the Atlanta Braves from May 3-5. Special Event Packages during the home stand include Law Enforcement Appreciation Night on May 3, and Mental Health Awareness Night on May 4. Whether you're a newbie or a lifelong fan, check out our guide to how to do a Dodger game right. Plus, it's a weekend of pro soccer at BMO Stadium when Angel City FC takes on the Kansas City Current and LAFC hosts the Portland Timbers.
Dodgers vs Braves (May 3)
Dodgers vs Braves (May 4)
Dodgers vs Braves (May 5)
Angel City FC vs Kansas City (April 26)
LAFC vs Portland (April 27)

DODGERS GAME DAY

A CAFE WITH A SPECTACULAR VIEW OF THE OCEAN!

Perched on the picturesque Uradome Coast in Iwami Town in Japan, "Cafe Bloom" is a popular seaside café known for its exceptional location. 

With its rustic tables and chairs harmonizing with the stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and blue sky, the mobile trailer café seamlessly blends into the natural surroundings, creating a scene straight out of a painting. 

Their signature menu features freshly roasted coffee and lemonade that perfectly complement the azure sea. In addition to drinks, they also offer sweets like bagels and cakes, making it an ideal spot for brunch.

Cafe Bloom 

Address: 690-204 Makidani, Iwami-cho, Iwami-gun 

Access: Approximately 20 minutes by bus from JR Iwami Station 

https://maps.app.goo.gl/HjHgKSuw5uAR6kXz8

Your next big move - Unmissable Conference Sessions at ATM Dubai

One of the best things about ATM Dubai is the wealth of knowledge that awaits you at the show. The wide range of speakers and topics enable access to the fastest growing and evolving markets in the world and our programme will show you how to successfully tap into them, keeping your business one step ahead.

Here are just a few topics that we’ll cover this year:

• Find out what future travellers are looking for during their next stay & explore the latest developments within the hospitality landscape at ‘The Trends Shaping Hospitality’.
• How can your business harness data for enhanced business intelligence? Discover the answer at ‘Data-Led Business Decisions, For Superior Operations’.
• Stay on top of emerging trends & adapt your business to evolving traveller demands with ‘Find Your 2024 Niche: Top Trends to Tap in 2024’.
• Gain actionable advice from over 200 industry figureheads including Claudia Kozma Kaplan, SVP & Global Head of Brand, Raffles; Marvin Burton, Director of Digital Experience, Riyadh Air; Teodora Marinska, Head of Public Affairs, European Travel Commission; Charaf El Mansouri, CEO, Dharma, and the list keep growing…

…and there’s more! Check out the full conference programme & the list of speakers to plan your visit.

Be part of the conversation and start to plan your time at the show using the official app.

View the conference programme

Luxurious Resort Opens Exquisite Old-World Bar By The Beach

Anam Mui Ne

The Anam Mui Ne, an Indochine-era inspired resort in Vietnam’s popular beach town Mui Ne, has opened a quaint new bar that pays homage to the intimate Saigon bars of yesteryear.

The 1.2 hectare resort, which is the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) portfolio’s only Vietnamese property, this month unveiled the new watering hole, aptly dubbed Saigon Bar, on some of the resort’s most inspiring ground overlooking Mui Ne beach.

Adjacent to the resort’s 266sqm saltwater infinity swimming pool and immaculate lawn, Saigon Bar is situated at the other end of the beach to Lang Viet Restaurant & Bar, bookending the resort’s best view over the waterfront.

Softly lit with caged lanterns and candles, the bar is fashioned from hardwood sourced from sustainably cultivated forests in Vietnam’s Nam Dinh province and bedecked with customized encaustic tiles, evoking an atmosphere of old-world elegance.

Fronted by a grey cobble-stone terrace with a handful of outdoor wooden bar tables flanked by rattan stools, Saigon Bar’s interior is home to cozy rattan chairs clustered in semi-circles and a bar featuring woodwork that took craftspeople months to complete. Greenery cascades down the bar’s exterior from wooden plant boxes fastened to a balcony above.

The bar’s shelves are lined with all sorts of boutique spirits from Vietnam and around the world, such as Ho Chi Minh City-based Lady Trieu’s craft gins including ‘Dalat Flowerbomb’, ‘Mekong Delta Dry’, ‘Hoi An Spice Road’ and ‘Sapa Citrus Tea’.

Saigon Bar’s extensive drinks menu includes an array of spirits, beers, wines, signature cocktails, large cocktails shared between four people and “choose your own” mojitos, daiquiris, and margaritas. Surprises including ‘The Anam Penicillin’, comprising Whisky Glenmorangie 10, whisky Famous Grouse, whisky Laphroaig 10, chamomile infused Quinta do Noval 10 Tawny Port, clarified lemon juice, honey and ginger syrup, and ‘Smokey Frangipani Blossom’ made up of Frangipani infused Haku vodka, Ricard, apple juice, celery juice, clarified lemon juice and maple syrup.

Vietnamese coffee, milk shakes, loose green and black leaf teas, freshly squeezed juices, home-made iced teas, and kombucha with all sorts of health benefits concocted on the resort’s grounds are also on offer.

In addition to ‘smoothie bowls’ packed with different fruits, the bar also serves tapas including the likes of a cheese and charcuterie platter, a grilled prawn salad, beef satay skewers, and salted and spicy crispy pork skin. The selection of desserts ranges from ice-cream and sorbet to chocolate raspberry cheesecake and bubble tea panna cotta.

Anam Mui Ne

“Our Saigon Bar may be new but when you set foot inside, you feel like you’re stepping back in time, to a charming bar in bygone Saigon’s labyrinthine alleyways, where the atmosphere is almost as palpable and the unique beverages and tapas we’ve concocted,” said the resort’s manager Ye Chang Sheng (Peter).


For further information or to make a booking, visit.theanam.com, email info.mn@theanam.com or reservations.mn@theanam.com, or telephone +(84) 252 628 4868

Captain Cook Cruises Fiji Debuts its Southern Lau Expedition with Never-before Visited Locations onboard MS Caledonian Sky

Fiji’s expedition specialist Captain Cook Cruises Fiji has just returned from its inaugural seven-night voyage to the Southern Lau archipelago. The Southern Lau itineraries now feature on the cruise line’s program with departures each month for the remainder of the 2024 season, and including two bonus itineraries that combine with a visit to Tonga for the annual whale migration in August.

On an extraordinary journey, expedition small ship MS Caledonian Sky’s inaugural Southern Lau voyage featured many ‘firsts’ with several stops visiting destinations tourists had never before visited. Each morning, the ship’s cultural delegation went ashore for the traditional sevu sevu with the village chiefs and elders, and the ship’s guests were then officially welcomed ashore.

Every land-stop along the voyage offered wonderful experiences, from the warm welcome at Buliya village and a discovery of the rich history at Matuku to Fulaga's extraordinary aqua blue beauty and Totoya which delighted guests with its culture and thrilling dive spots. Beqa wowed with traditional ceremonies and firewalking while Vatulele captivated guests with its gorgeous lagoon, ancient rock paintings, caves and vibrant cultural encounters.

With generously inclusive rates from $7,693, the Southern Lau departures are detailed here and a summary follows:

BULIYA: The journey began with a warm reception at Buliya village. This was the first ever visit of its kind to the village and the ship’s guests and crew were greeted with enthusiastic singing. It was Easter Sunday and the special church service with its incredible choir was followed by a village tour and a refreshing swim.

MATUKU: Matuku Island was the only island in Lau not to have been conquered by the Tongans. As the first organised tourism visit to the island, the ship’s guests discovered rich Fijian history, a significant cultural site and thrilling surf breaks. Despite its warlike past, the locals welcomed the visitors with vibrant dancing and cultural experiences.

FULAGA: Located halfway to Tonga, Fulaga revealed its heavenly beauty, with welcoming villagers showcasing their renowned wood carving craftsmanship and hospitality. Passengers basked in the island's idyllic charm, dubbed "heaven on earth". Fulaga's aqua blue waters seem to go for on ever.

YAGASA: At Yagasa the ship’s guests enjoyed the picturesque scenery, with time to relax and swim or kayak.

TOTOYA: The ship arrived in Totoya to the news that they had no contact for a month as the supply barge that usually comes once every two weeks had not come for four. Despite this, Fijian happiness abounded and Totoya's well organised village showcased its trade in copra and coconut, offering enriching experiences like copra demonstrations and a fabulous cultural performance by the school students. Passengers explored its underwater wonders and top dive spots, ending the day with excellent surfing adventures.

BEQA: After the traditional welcome by the locals, Beqa Island treated passengers to an awe-inspiring firewalking display. Passengers immersed in village life, enjoying warm hospitality and sampling delicious local cuisine.

VATULELE: Hidden gem Vatulele revealed its beauty and vibrant cultural heritage. From its magnificent lagoon, white sandy beaches, caves and hidden canyons to an experience of 3000-year-old rock art, sacred red prawns and immersive cultural encounters, the island captivated all with its charm, a fitting wrap to a Southern Lau adventure.

For further information and bookings, please contact Captain Cook Cruises Fiji via fiji@captaincookcruisesfiji.com or visit www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com. A selection of images is available for download here.

Pan Pacific Hotels Group Introduces Bespoke MICE Offerings with "Thoughtful Hospitality: Bespoke Meeting Experiences"

Pan Pacific Hotels Group (PPHG) is elevating its MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) experience with the launch of Thoughtful Hospitality: Bespoke Meeting Experiences from now till 31 December 2024. 

Rooted in the essence of celebrating moments that are unique to the identities of its three distinct brands, Thoughtful Hospitality: Bespoke Meeting Experiences ensures that each event experience is customised and thoughtfully crafted. 

Tailored to perfection with a curation of unique brand attributes 

PPHG boasts a proficient team of event planners equipped with in-depth product knowledge, prepared to bring clients’ vision to life. 

From gala dinners to large-scale international conferences – every detail is meticulously considered and crafted. Enriched with responsive organisers, attentive culinary teams – PPHG’s event planners ensure seamless event management to deliver a memorable event for all. 

The Group’s luxurious accommodations and personalised menu offerings also reflect the distinct qualities of each PPHG brand, ensuring that every aspect aligns with the client’s vision for a truly personalised experience: 

• Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts’ Graceful Luxury – Sophistication and elegance, providing a luxurious and refined experience, guaranteed to foster authentic and meaningful connections. 
• PARKROYAL COLLECTION Hotels and Resorts’ Enlivening Greenscape – Centred on blending biophilic design and eco-wellness, creating a sanctuary of tranquillity aimed at nurturing the body, mind, and spirit. 
• PARKROYAL Hotels and Resorts’ Gateway to Vibrant Locales – A unique ambiance that immerses you in the locale – engaging all senses for exploration and discovery. 

A collection of distinctive brand offerings 

The Thoughtful Hospitality: Bespoke Meeting Experiences packages include curated touchpoints for each brand: 

• Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts orchestrates unforgettable event experiences, indulging attendees with curated lunch menus designed by the hotel’s signature restaurants including award-winning Cantonese restaurant Hai Tien Lo and modern Australian restaurant, Dock 37 Bar and Kitchen. Bespoke cocktail receptions and a curation of delectable canapes by the hotel’s bars, such as the exquisite PLUME, further elevate the event, while thoughtful welcome amenities usher in a luxurious and refined experience. A dedicated event concierge meticulously oversees every detail – ensuring flawless execution that leaves a lasting impression on guests. Participating hotels include Pan Pacific Singapore, Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur, Pan Pacific Melbourne, and Pan Pacific Yangon. 
• PARKROYAL COLLECTION Hotels and Resorts curates event experiences that prioritise sustainability and well-being, allowing attendees to savour fresh, local flavours from Singapore and Malaysia with the farm-to-table coffee break offerings, farm-to-bar welcome cocktail reception, and a conscious dining set lunch menu, all showcasing the hotel’s renowned dining offerings including the vibrant Lime Restaurant and Bar and The Botanist Lounge and Bar. The package also provides wellness-centric team-building activities to foster collaboration, and inspiring sustainability tours that spotlight each hotel’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Participating hotels include PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering, Singapore, PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay Singapore, and PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 
• PARKROYAL Hotels and Resorts unlocks an immersive experience, inviting attendees to delve into the richness of every local culture. From the streets of Yangon to the shores of Langkawi and Penang, attendees can venture into a world of cultural discovery with the package’s tours and workshops, and savour traditional flavours with coffee breaks and lunches infused with regional specialties. Welcome cocktail receptions featuring locally inspired drinks crafted by the talented bartenders from esteemed dining experiences like Lancava, featuring its enticing Mediterranean flavours, and Enoteca Bar and Lounge’s Southeast Asian flair, set the stage for an enriching experience. Participating hotels include PARKROYAL Yangon, PARKROYAL Langkawi Resort, PARKROYAL Penang Resort, PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney, PARKROYAL Parramatta, PARKROYAL Monash Melbourne. 

"The future of MICE is swiftly evolving, propelled by a transformative wave towards innovative event experiences that redefine the fabric of celebrations. Thoughtful Hospitality: Bespoke Meeting Experiences embraces the distinct touchpoints across our three brands and goes beyond conventional events offering and setup. Our innovative, bespoke approach not only reflects our pursuit of excellence but also underscores our dedication to crafting memorable experiences for our guests,” said Cinn Tan, Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer, Pan Pacific Hotels Group. 

The experiences are applicable for new bookings confirmed from now till 31 December 2024, and for events held until 28 February 2025. 

For more information on Thoughtful Hospitality: Bespoke Meeting Experiences, please visit https://www.panpacific.com/en/offers/thoughtful-hospitality.html