Smart Travel Innovation Takes Centre Stage: IAPCO Honours Egyptian Congress Leader With 2026 Excellence Award

Mohamed Sherif

Innovation, sustainability and seamless delegate experiences are reshaping the future of global business events, and one Egyptian industry leader is proving that smarter mobility solutions can transform how major conferences operate.

The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers has named Mohamed Sherif, General Manager at ICOM DMC and a subsidiary of ICOM Group, as the recipient of the prestigious IAPCO Driving Excellence Innovation Award 2026.

Presented during the celebrated IMEX Gala Dinner in Frankfurt by IAPCO President Sissi Lignou and IMEX Founder and Chairman Ray Bloom, the award recognises Sherif’s pioneering leadership in revolutionising delegate transportation at CardioAlex 2025 through a highly effective, data-driven smart mobility system.

The achievement marks an important milestone not only for Egypt’s thriving meetings industry but also for the future of sustainable conference management worldwide.

How Smart Mobility Is Transforming Global Conferences

Large international conferences depend on flawless logistics, yet delegate transportation often remains one of the most complex and resource-intensive operational challenges.

At CardioAlex 2025, one of the Middle East and Africa’s largest cardiovascular conferences, this challenge was reimagined through technology, operational redesign and real-time decision making.

Held annually at the renowned Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt, CardioAlex attracts thousands of cardiology professionals, researchers and global medical experts for intensive scientific programs, live case demonstrations, workshops and international collaboration.

In 2025, the conference welcomed more than 6,200 delegates across a demanding three-day schedule.

Historically, transport systems relied on conventional fixed bus allocations assigned to individual hotels. While functional, this model frequently produced overlapping routes, underutilised vehicles, rising fuel consumption and growing environmental concerns.

Under Mohamed Sherif’s leadership, ICOM Group challenged this long-standing approach.

The Award Winning Smart Shuttle System Changing Delegate Travel

To address recurring transport inefficiencies, ICOM Group assembled a specialised cross-functional taskforce bringing together experts in web development, operational logistics and ground transport management.

The result was the innovative CardioAlex Smart Shuttle System.

Rather than assigning buses to specific hotels, the new model introduced a dynamic round-robin fleet structure. A smaller number of continuously circulating buses serviced multiple hotel pickup locations and the conference venue through carefully timed rotations.

The system combined three integrated technological layers designed to improve both operational performance and delegate convenience.

A delegate-facing mobile application used GPS technology to identify the nearest pickup point while providing real-time estimated bus arrivals. Drivers utilised a dedicated application supporting dynamic route sequencing and live fleet navigation. Meanwhile, a centralised operations dashboard delivered instant oversight of vehicle locations, passenger loads and operational adjustments when required.

This intelligent approach transformed transportation into a responsive, data-led service model built around flexibility, visibility and efficiency.

Sustainability And Delegate Experience Working Together

The operational results delivered by the CardioAlex Smart Shuttle System were both immediate and measurable.

In 2025, CardioAlex managed its largest accommodation footprint to date, encompassing 18 hotels and approximately 1,600 rooms, while operating with just 47 buses throughout the conference period.

This represented a dramatic 47.8 per cent reduction in fleet size compared with 2023 and a 44 per cent reduction compared with 2024.

Importantly, these gains were achieved without compromising delegate comfort, accessibility or service quality.

The streamlined fleet produced significant sustainability benefits, including lower fuel consumption, reduced emissions and substantial savings in transport operations, vehicle hire and driver logistics.

Freed resources could then be redirected towards strengthening scientific programming and enhancing the overall delegate journey.

The project demonstrates that sustainability, operational excellence and premium guest experience can function as complementary objectives rather than competing priorities.

Egyptian Leadership Driving The Future Of Event Management

In recognising Sherif’s achievement, IAPCO praised the project as a powerful example of practical, future-focused innovation capable of raising standards across the international meetings sector.

With 19 years of experience in international congress operations and event strategy, Sherif has developed a strong reputation for building collaborative, innovation-led operating models capable of delivering complex large-scale conferences.

ICOM Group itself has become a respected force within the medical and scientific meetings landscape across the Middle East and Africa. Based in Egypt, the Professional Conference Organiser brings more than 28 years of expertise in managing major conferences while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability, operational precision and world-class delegate experiences.

As the business events sector continues to evolve, the CardioAlex Smart Shuttle System offers a compelling blueprint for how intelligent logistics can create smarter, greener and more efficient conferences for the future.

IAPCO – International Association of Professional Congress Organisers Website: https://www.iapco.org

ICOM Group Website: https://icomgroup.org/

CardioAlex Website: https://www.cardioalex.com

IMEX Group Website: https://www.imex-frankfurt.com

For more information about the IAPCO Innovation Award:
https://www.iapco.org/education-and-training/awards/innovation.html

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Reset Your System in Japan: The Cool-Down Onsen Soak Redefining Summer Wellness in 2026

Hoshino Resorts

As temperatures continue to climb across Japan following the country’s record-breaking heat events of 2025, a new wellness movement is transforming how travellers experience Japanese summer. Rather than escaping the heat, one leading luxury hospitality brand is embracing it with a scientifically designed solution that blends ancient bathing traditions with modern health expertise.

From 1 June to 31 August 2026, Japan’s acclaimed KAI properties by Hoshino Resorts will launch the innovative “Cool-Down Soak” program, offering guests a refreshing new take on the traditional onsen experience. Developed in collaboration with respected balneotherapy specialist Dr. Shinya Hayasaka, this immersive wellness initiative positions the Japanese onsen not simply as a place of relaxation, but as a powerful tool for summer recovery, body regulation and nervous system reset.

The Japanese Summer Wellness Trend Travellers Need to Know

Japan’s famous hot springs, known as onsen, have long been celebrated for their therapeutic properties. Traditionally associated with steaming mineral waters and winter escapes, they are now being reimagined for the realities of modern climate challenges.

The Cool-Down Soak introduces a carefully calibrated immersion in “tepid waters” maintained at a soothing 35–36°C. This temperature sits within the body’s thermoneutral zone, allowing bathers to lower their core body temperature without the physical stress often linked to conventional hot bathing.

Guests are guided by experienced Yumori, or onsen masters, who supervise the ideal 10 to 20-minute soak. The result is a bathing ritual designed to calm the autonomic nervous system, reduce overheating, minimise post-bath perspiration and leave participants feeling genuinely refreshed rather than drained by the summer heat.

For wellness travellers seeking authentic Japanese health experiences, this may be one of the most compelling new travel trends of 2026.

A Recovery Ritual Designed for Mind and Body

The experience extends beyond the bath itself, embracing a holistic philosophy of recovery from the inside out.

Immediately after soaking, guests can enjoy a curated menu of chilled functional beverages created specifically to support hydration and replenishment.

Hoshino Resorts

Among the highlights is the KAI Original Post-Bath Beer, a crisp, low-alcohol craft brew designed with post-onsen refreshment in mind. Those preferring a traditional wellness option can opt for chilled amazake, Japan’s centuries-old fermented rice drink often referred to as the nation’s “traditional superdrink.”

Rich in amino acids, vitamins and naturally restorative nutrients, amazake provides a nourishing counterbalance to the dehydration and fatigue often associated with prolonged summer heat exposure.

It is a thoughtful addition that elevates the experience from simple bathing to a complete seasonal wellness ritual.

Discover the Art of Cooling Down the Japanese Way

One of the most memorable elements of the Cool-Down Soak experience lies within KAI’s dedicated Yuagari lounges — tranquil post-bath sanctuaries designed to engage the senses and amplify the feeling of coolness.

These calming spaces draw inspiration from the timeless elegance of a traditional Japanese summer. Guests are surrounded by the soft, melodic sound of regional wind chimes, the gentle movement of handcrafted paper fans and carefully curated breezes that create an atmosphere of nostalgic serenity.

Rather than rushing back into the outside world, visitors are encouraged to linger, unwind and fully absorb the lingering calm of the bathing ritual.

It is a subtle but powerful reminder that wellness in Japan often resides in the details — in stillness, atmosphere and the deliberate slowing of the senses.

Why Japan’s Cool-Down Onsen Experience Belongs on Your 2026 Travel List

As global travellers increasingly seek meaningful wellness journeys, Japan’s Cool-Down Soak program arrives at exactly the right moment.

Combining traditional onsen culture, medical expertise and climate-conscious wellbeing, this unique seasonal offering demonstrates how ancient practices can adapt to contemporary lifestyles without losing their cultural authenticity.

For travellers planning a summer escape to Japan in 2026, this innovative experience offers far more than relaxation. It presents an opportunity to reset the body, restore balance and discover a cooler, calmer side of Japanese wellness culture.

Whether you are a dedicated wellness traveller, a lover of Japanese traditions or simply seeking relief from the summer heat, the Cool-Down Soak promises a restorative journey unlike any other.

Web Contact Details:
Website: https://hoshinoresorts.com/en/brands/kai/
More Information: https://hoshinoresorts.com/en/brands/kai/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

VIP Tourism: Travelling the World with Your Very Important Pet

Monterey Bay Famous Dog Friendly Electric Bike and Sidecar Tour

Why Pet-Friendly Travel Is Booming

A major shift is reshaping the travel landscape—VIP Tourism, or Very Important Pet travel. For millions of travellers, pets are no longer left behind at home. Instead, they are becoming central to the travel experience, with holidays now planned around their comfort, enjoyment and wellbeing.

This growing trend reflects a broader cultural change, where pets are considered family members. As a result, travellers are actively seeking destinations, hotels and experiences that welcome their four-legged companions with open arms.

From luxury accommodation to curated pet-friendly adventures, VIP Tourism is redefining what it means to travel together.

Hotels Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Pets

Accommodation providers around the world are embracing this demand with dedicated pet-friendly programs. Brands like Kimpton Hotels have set a new standard by welcoming pets of all sizes at no extra cost, providing amenities such as beds, bowls and personalised touches.

Similarly, Loews Hotels offers specialised services including gourmet pet menus and dog-walking assistance, ensuring that pets enjoy the same level of care as their owners.

In Sydney, QT Sydney takes things a step further with premium pet amenities, including orthopedic beds and unique treats. These offerings highlight how seriously the hospitality industry is taking the needs of travelling pets.

Experiences Designed for You and Your Pet

Sedona Outlaw Trail

Beyond accommodation, travellers are increasingly booking experiences that include their pets. Dog-friendly beaches, parks and outdoor adventures are becoming key considerations when planning a trip.

This trend is particularly popular among active travellers, who want to share outdoor experiences such as hiking, walking tours and scenic exploration with their pets. It transforms travel into a shared experience, strengthening the bond between owner and animal.

The demand for pet-inclusive activities has surged dramatically, reflecting the growing importance of pets in travel decision-making.

Animal Encounters Beyond Your Own Pet

Even when pets cannot travel, animal-focused experiences remain a strong part of this trend. Travellers are seeking opportunities to connect with animals in meaningful and ethical ways.

At Nihi Sumba Resort in Indonesia, visitors can experience the unique activity of swimming with horses along pristine beaches. Meanwhile, Pebble Cove Farm in the Pacific Northwest offers guests the chance to interact with rescued farm animals in a peaceful, natural setting.

These experiences allow travellers to connect with animals in ways that are both memorable and responsible.

The Rise of Cat Cafés and Urban Animal Experiences

Giant 3D Cat billboard located in Shinjuku, Tokyo

Urban destinations are also embracing animal-centric travel experiences. Cat cafés, once a niche concept, are now a global phenomenon.

Cities like Tokyo and New York City have seen a surge in visitors seeking out these unique venues. They offer a relaxing environment where guests can enjoy a coffee while spending time with resident cats.

This trend highlights a growing desire for comfort, companionship and stress relief during travel, even in busy urban environments.

Why VIP Tourism Is Here to Stay

The rise of VIP Tourism is backed by significant growth in bookings for pet-friendly and animal-related experiences. Travellers are increasingly prioritising inclusivity, ensuring that their pets are part of their journeys whenever possible.

This trend also aligns with the broader movement towards personalised travel. By incorporating pets into their plans, travellers are creating experiences that feel more meaningful and tailored to their lifestyles.

Plan Your Pet-Friendly Getaway

VIP Tourism is transforming the way we travel, making it more inclusive, personal and rewarding. Whether exploring new destinations with your pet or seeking out unique animal encounters, the opportunities are expanding rapidly.

For more information and to discover pet-friendly travel experiences, visit Tripadvisor:
Website: https://www.tripadvisor.com

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Sydney Writers’ Festival Smashes Records Again As Literary Tourism Booms In Sydney

Sydney Writers’ Festival 2026

Sydney has once again proven its place as one of the world’s great cultural capitals, with Sydney Writers’ Festival 2026 delivering its biggest and most successful event in the festival’s 29-year history. Drawing more than 100,000 attendees across eight days of inspiring conversations, sold-out talks and literary celebration, the acclaimed festival has broken attendance and ticket records for the second consecutive year.

For travellers seeking cultural experiences in Sydney, literary festivals, author events and immersive intellectual conversations are becoming an increasingly compelling reason to visit Australia’s harbour city.

Sydney Writers’ Festival Sets New Benchmark For Literary Events

Held from 17–24 May, Sydney Writers’ Festival 2026 transformed the city into a vibrant meeting place for readers, writers, thinkers and curious minds. Featuring more than 250 writers and thinkers across 200-plus events, the festival attracted audiences from Sydney, across Australia and beyond.

Under the 2026 theme Show Me the Truth, this year’s program explored powerful ideas surrounding literature, culture, politics, identity, history and contemporary society.

Packed venues, lively debates and sold-out sessions highlighted the growing popularity of literary tourism and cultural travel experiences in Sydney.

More than 55 per cent of festival events sold out, demonstrating the extraordinary appetite for meaningful conversation, storytelling and world-class literary programming.

Global Authors And Australian Literary Stars Captivate Audiences

Sydney Writers’ Festival 2026

Sydney Writers’ Festival 2026 delivered a remarkable line-up of celebrated international and Australian authors, creating unforgettable experiences for book lovers.

Audiences packed theatres and event spaces to hear from acclaimed global voices including Daniel Hahn, Patrick Radden Keefe, Susan Choi, Roddy Doyle, Amitav Ghosh, Mick Herron, Tayari Jones, R.F. Kuang and Yann Martel.

The Opening Gala established an ambitious tone for the week, featuring Robbie Arnott, Nikita Gill, Lily King, Michael Pedersen and Kirli Saunders in a showcase of diverse storytelling and compelling ideas.

Australian literary favourites also generated enormous enthusiasm throughout the festival. Sessions featuring Stephanie Alexander, Trent Dalton, Melissa Lukashenko and Suzie Miller drew strong crowds, while new releases from Madeleine Gray, George Kemp, Antoinette Lattouf and Zoe Terakes captivated readers eager to discover fresh Australian voices.

For visitors planning a literary escape to Sydney, the festival offered a rare opportunity to engage directly with some of the world’s most influential writers.

Youth Engagement And Education Programs Drive Future Literary Communities

One of the standout achievements of Sydney Writers’ Festival 2026 was its impressive growth in education and youth participation.

The festival welcomed 11,995 students across Primary School Days, Secondary School Days and Student Sessions, reflecting an 11.3 per cent increase compared with 2025 participation figures.

Student Sessions recorded particularly strong growth, increasing by more than 30 per cent, while more than 5,000 participants received free access to educational programming.

Children’s and Young Adult programming also created memorable moments for younger audiences, with appearances from internationally loved creators generating excitement and curiosity among students discovering new authors and literary worlds.

These initiatives continue to position Sydney Writers’ Festival as a powerful force in nurturing Australia’s next generation of readers, writers and creative thinkers.

Sydney’s Growing Reputation As A Cultural Tourism Destination

Sydney Writers’ Festival 2026

The remarkable success of Sydney Writers’ Festival reflects a broader trend in experiential and cultural tourism, where travellers increasingly seek meaningful connections through books, arts, ideas and intellectual engagement.

Beyond headline author talks, the festival expanded its national footprint through more than 50 free events and an enlarged Live & Local program reaching 160 venues across Australia.

For visitors exploring Sydney, literary experiences complement the city’s iconic attractions including harbourside dining, museums, galleries, theatre performances and historic landmarks.

The festival’s ongoing year-round programming hosted at the State Library of New South Wales further strengthens Sydney’s appeal as a destination where storytelling, creativity and cultural exchange flourish throughout the year.

Looking Ahead To The 30th Sydney Writers’ Festival

Momentum is already building for 2027, when Sydney Writers’ Festival will celebrate its landmark 30th anniversary.

Book lovers, travellers and culture enthusiasts are encouraged to stay connected for announcements regarding upcoming events, literary programs and next year’s festival schedule.

With record attendance, expanding audiences and growing national reach, Sydney Writers’ Festival continues to establish itself as one of Australia’s premier cultural experiences and a standout event on the global literary calendar.

Sydney Writers’ Festival 

Website: www.swf.org.au
State Library of New South Wales Website: https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/
Festival Information and Newsletter Sign-Up: www.swf.org.au

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

TRICKD Gold Coast: Australia’s Mind Bending New Immersive Attraction Opens In Surfers Paradise

TRICKD

The Gold Coast entertainment scene has gained a spectacular new addition with the launch of TRICKD, an Australian-first immersive sensory attraction that is already drawing crowds to Surfers Paradise.

Created by Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment in partnership with Fever, TRICKD delivers a high-energy, reality-twisting experience where gravity feels optional, senses become unreliable and families are invited to challenge everything they think they know about sight, sound, space and taste.

Already proving a major hit during its opening weeks, this interactive all-ages attraction is shaping up as one of the most exciting school holiday experiences on the Gold Coast.

Australia’s First Look At A World First Ripley’s Attraction

Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, TRICKD marks the global debut of an entirely new Ripley’s entertainment concept.

The attraction has launched first on the Gold Coast before being rolled out to international destinations, highlighting Queensland’s growing status as a key market for immersive entertainment experiences.

Developed with Fever, which is expanding its Australian presence with a Brisbane hub, TRICKD introduces visitors to a multi-sensory adventure unlike anything currently operating in Australia.

“There’s nothing like this in Australia,” said Victor Danau, Director of Asia Pacific Development and Operations for Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment.

“Immersive entertainment is booming globally, with everything from sports to concerts jumping on board, and the Gold Coast is the perfect home for our new sensory-driven experience that will appeal to locals and holidaymakers alike.”

Inside The Gold Coast Attraction Where Reality Turns Upside Down

TRICKD

Spanning 667 square metres in a multi-million-dollar fit-out, TRICKD is a standalone attraction designed to progressively dismantle visitors’ sense of reality.

The adventure begins before guests even enter, requiring participants to locate a hidden entry point before stepping into a world of shifting perspectives, impossible geometry and sensory confusion.

Large-scale interactive environments distort gravity, tilt perception and challenge visitors to navigate spaces where physical rules seem negotiable.

Throughout the attraction, optical illusions, sound distortions, tactile surprises and immersive environments continually blur the boundaries between reality and imagination.

The experience builds toward a dramatic digital finale where mixed reality, glitch effects, movement and light collide in a futuristic sensory overload.

Three Interactive Zones Deliver Maximum Family Fun

The journey through TRICKD unfolds across three major themed environments, each designed to intensify the sensory experience.

Dr Enigma’s Laboratory

The adventure begins in a world that initially appears normal — until reflections behave strangely, visual illusions emerge and glowing experiments reveal that physics may not be quite what it seems.

The Anomaly Zone

In this increasingly disorientating section, colours deceive, proportions shift, patterns warp and sound manipulates perception. Unexpected tactile experiences add another layer of sensory confusion.

The Paradox Glitch Zone

The grand finale introduces visitors to a visually striking high-tech environment where motion, light, digital effects and mixed reality combine to create a playful unraveling of reality itself.

Bugs In Your Dessert? The Gold Coast’s Wildest Froyo Experience

TRICKD

One of the attraction’s most talked-about features is its adventurous frozen yoghurt menu, where visitors can test not only their senses but also their culinary bravery.

Guests can choose from a range of unusual specialty Froyo sundaes featuring edible insects and surprising flavour combinations.

Options include the Cinnamon Cricket Crunch featuring sugar crickets with caramel sauce, El Gusano Caliente blending chilli mealworms with chocolate sauce, and Ant Hill Crumble combining ants, cookies and strawberry sauce.

For less adventurous visitors, a traditional vanilla frozen yoghurt with chocolate sauce remains safely on the menu.

The unusual food experience adds another playful layer to an attraction built around challenging expectations.

One Of The Best New School Holiday Attractions On The Gold Coast

Designed for visitors of all ages, TRICKD offers an interactive experience that works equally well for families, friendship groups, content creators, curious travellers and holidaymakers searching for something genuinely different on the Gold Coast.

The attraction’s immersive design also makes it highly visual, with illusion-filled spaces, gravity-defying environments and colourful installations creating memorable photo and video opportunities.

Whether visitors are walking on walls, navigating impossible rooms or questioning what their senses are telling them, TRICKD delivers an experience designed to entertain, surprise and spark conversation long after leaving.

Plan Your Visit To TRICKD Gold Coast

Where: Level 1, 4 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise, Queensland 4217
When: Various daily sessions
Duration: Allow approximately 45 to 90 minutes
Tickets: Available via the official Fever ticketing platform
Prices: Children aged 4–12 from $25.90, adults from $31.90, with family passes available
Age Suitability: All ages

TRICKD / Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Gold Coast

Web: https://feverup.com/m/570438
Fever Web: https://feverup.com/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Multi-Media Systems Ltd: Elevating Events in New Zealand with Cutting Edge Audio Visual Production

Multi-Media Systems Ltd

Transforming Events with Professional Audio Visual Excellence

In today’s competitive events industry, high-quality production can define the success of any conference, launch, or live experience. Multi-Media Systems Ltd has established itself as a leading provider of professional event technology solutions across New Zealand, delivering seamless integration of sound, lighting, projection, and digital design.

From intimate meetings to large-scale productions, the company provides complete technical solutions that ensure every event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression.

Complete Event Production Solutions for Every Occasion

Multi-Media Systems Ltd offers a comprehensive range of professional equipment designed to meet the demands of modern events. Their inventory includes advanced projection systems, high-performance sound equipment, and dynamic lighting setups.

This full suite of technology allows event organisers to create immersive environments tailored to their specific audience, whether for corporate conferences, product launches, exhibitions, or gala dinners.

Integrated Technical Expertise and Creative Support

What sets Multi-Media Systems Ltd apart is its fully integrated production team. Beyond providing equipment, the company delivers end-to-end technical expertise, ensuring every detail is professionally managed.

From setup to execution, their experienced technicians work closely with clients to design and deliver flawless event experiences. This hands-on approach guarantees reliability and precision at every stage of production.

Expert Computer Graphics and Visual Design Services

Multi-Media Systems Ltd

Modern events demand visually engaging content, and Multi-Media Systems Ltd responds with specialist computer graphics and presentation design services. Their creative team develops customised on-screen visuals, ranging from branded backgrounds to fully interactive presentations.

These digital solutions enhance audience engagement and ensure that messaging is delivered with clarity, professionalism, and visual impact.

Scalable Solutions for Small Meetings to Large Productions

Flexibility is a key strength of Multi-Media Systems Ltd. Their systems are scalable, allowing them to support everything from small boardroom meetings to large convention centre productions.

This adaptability makes them a trusted partner for event planners across Auckland and beyond, ensuring that each event receives the right level of technical support regardless of size or complexity.

A Trusted Partner in Auckland’s Events Industry

Based in Newmarket, Auckland, Multi-Media Systems Ltd plays a vital role in supporting New Zealand’s thriving events sector. Their commitment to innovation, reliability, and service excellence has earned them a strong reputation among corporate clients, event organisers, and production teams.

By combining technology with creativity, they help transform ideas into impactful live experiences.

Multi-Media Systems Ltd

2 - 6 McColl Street, Newmarket, Auckland, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 523 3049
Website: https://www.multi-media.co.nz/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

The Art of Travel Sets Sail: CT Partners Unveils Groundbreaking 2026 Luxury Conference at Sea

Luminara

The Australian travel industry is preparing for one of its most ambitious and innovative gatherings ever staged, as CT Partners confirms details of its highly anticipated 2026 Annual Conference — an event designed to redefine how business, luxury travel and creative inspiration intersect.

With just six months remaining until departure, the network has revealed a conference concept unlike anything previously seen in Australia’s travel sector. For the first time, a major travel industry conference will take place aboard a luxury superyacht, blending premium hospitality, immersive networking and cultural sophistication under the inspiring theme: The Art of Travel.

Running from 15 to 20 November 2026, the multi-destination experience will begin in Shanghai before continuing aboard one of the world’s newest ultra-luxury yachts on a spectacular voyage to Hong Kong.

Shanghai Launches A New Era Of Luxury Travel Conferences

The 2026 CT Partners Annual Conference will commence in vibrant Shanghai, where delegates will gather at the stylish W Shanghai The Bund for the network’s AGM and opening conference sessions.

Setting the tone for the week ahead, accommodation partner Marriott will host the opening night celebrations, introducing guests to an atmosphere where luxury, creativity and connection take centre stage.

The Shanghai program has been carefully designed to immerse delegates in the destination’s cultural richness. Highlights include an elegant evening of live jazz at the legendary Peace Hotel alongside opportunities to experience some of the city’s finest Chinese cuisine.

Rather than following the traditional conference formula, CT Partners is creating an event that celebrates travel as an experience, an artform and a catalyst for meaningful business relationships.

Luxury Superyacht Luminara Becomes The Ultimate Conference Venue

Following the Shanghai program, delegates will embark aboard The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s newest luxury superyacht, Luminara, for an extraordinary three-night sailing experience concluding in Hong Kong.

Luminara is far more than a vessel — it is a floating masterpiece. Featuring an impressive collection of 731 curated artworks displayed throughout its interiors, the yacht serves as the inspiration behind the conference’s fitting theme, The Art of Travel.

The yacht’s artistic identity, refined design and elevated guest experience provide an extraordinary backdrop for what promises to be CT Partners’ most memorable annual conference to date.

Days at sea will blend business strategy with immersive experiences, featuring supplier and member meetings, insightful business discussions and sessions exploring the evolving art of service, connection and meaningful conversation within the modern travel industry.

Networking Meets Glamour At Sea

Luminara

Adding another layer of sophistication, the conference itinerary culminates with a glamorous Met Gala themed dinner and awards ceremony on 19 November.

The celebration is expected to be one of the standout moments of the event, combining recognition, entertainment and luxury hospitality in a setting rarely available to travel professionals.

The conference also reflects a pivotal moment for CT Partners, which reported an impressive Total Transaction Value of $2.5 billion in 2025 while continuing to strengthen its position within premium leisure travel and the fast-growing MICE sector.

CT Partners Chief Executive Officer Matt Masson describes the conference theme as an authentic expression of the network’s identity and future ambitions.

According to Masson, The Art of Travel is more than a conference concept — it reflects the values, partnerships and elevated standards shaping the network’s ongoing growth.

A Defining Moment For The Australian Travel Industry

The partnership between CT Partners and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection signals an exciting evolution in how travel industry events can be imagined.

Seb Seward, Vice President Asia Pacific for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, describes the collaboration as a natural alignment between two organisations committed to exceptional experiences, world-class service and innovation.

With Luminara specifically designed to showcase the intersection of art, luxury hospitality and ocean travel, the superyacht provides an ideal stage for a conference centred on creativity, connection and elevated travel experiences.

As anticipation builds toward November 2026, the industry will be watching closely. More event details and program announcements are expected in the coming months, but one thing is already clear — CT Partners’ The Art of Travel conference is poised to become a landmark event in Australian travel history.

Web Contact Details:

CT Partners Website: https://ctpartners.com.au/

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Website: https://www.ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com

W Shanghai The Bund Website: https://www.marriott.com

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Liverpool Experience Campus Redefines Events, Business Travel And Entertainment On The Waterfront

Liverpool Experience Campus

One Destination Where Liverpool’s Biggest Events Come To Life

Positioned on Liverpool’s famous waterfront, Liverpool Experience Campus is transforming the way travellers, event organisers and business delegates experience one of the United Kingdom’s most dynamic cities.

Formerly known as ACC Liverpool, this impressive integrated destination brings together four major stages, world class venues, premium hotels and flexible event spaces within one seamlessly connected campus.

From global conventions and large scale exhibitions to live entertainment, political conferences, gala events and innovative product launches, Liverpool Experience Campus has established itself as one of Europe’s leading destinations for major gatherings and unforgettable experiences.

A World Class Venue Complex In The Heart Of Liverpool

Liverpool Experience Campus

At the centre of Liverpool Experience Campus is a collection of purpose built facilities designed to host events of every scale and style.

The campus includes an award-winning convention centre featuring a central auditorium, an impressive 11,000 capacity arena and a versatile multi-hall exhibition centre capable of accommodating everything from international trade shows to showcase events and corporate conferences.

Operating throughout the year, the campus has earned a reputation for delivering successful national and international events 365 days annually. Its interconnected design allows organisers to create seamless multi-venue experiences that bring together people, industries, ideas and innovation under one roof.

For business travellers, event planners and conference delegates, the campus offers a rare combination of efficiency, flexibility and destination appeal.

Liverpool Hospitality Takes Centre Stage

Food and hospitality form a major part of the visitor experience at Liverpool Experience Campus.

Catering services are delivered by Horseradish, powered by Levy, whose culinary team combines creative menu design, regional expertise and strong sustainability principles to create memorable dining experiences.

Using locally sourced ingredients and showcasing regional flavours, the catering offering delivers more than just event dining. Delegates and visitors are given an authentic taste of Liverpool’s vibrant food culture, enhancing the overall visitor journey from arrival to departure.

Stay Connected With Hotels On Site And Across The City

Liverpool Experience Campus

Convenience remains one of the campus’s strongest advantages. With more than 650 guest rooms across three on-site hotels, visitors can transition effortlessly between accommodation, networking functions, meetings and event venues.

A standout accommodation option is the four star Pullman Liverpool, which offers direct access to the exhibition centre, making it particularly attractive for conference attendees and business travellers seeking maximum convenience.

Beyond the campus, Liverpool city centre provides an extensive selection of additional accommodation options, many located within easy walking distance, giving visitors flexibility across a variety of budgets and travel styles.

Easy Access Makes Liverpool A Smart Choice For Business And Leisure Travel

Liverpool’s accessibility further strengthens the appeal of Liverpool Experience Campus.

Liverpool Lime Street Station offers direct rail connections to major cities including London, Birmingham and Manchester, making domestic travel straightforward and efficient. International visitors benefit from access through both Liverpool and Manchester airports, while the city’s compact layout allows visitors to explore much of the centre comfortably on foot.

For travellers combining work with leisure, Liverpool’s celebrated waterfront, cultural attractions, music heritage, restaurants and shopping precincts provide countless opportunities beyond the conference floor.

More Than A Venue It Is A Destination

Liverpool Experience Campus

Liverpool Experience Campus is far more than an events venue. It is a destination where business, culture, hospitality, entertainment and innovation converge to create memorable experiences on a global stage.

Whether hosting a major convention, attending a live performance, launching a new product or planning a high profile corporate gathering, this waterfront campus delivers scale, connectivity and authentic Liverpool character in one integrated destination.

For event organisers, delegates and travellers looking for the next great stage, Liverpool Experience Campus offers a compelling reason to experience one of Britain’s most exciting cities.

Liverpool Experience Campus

Liverpool Waterfront, United Kingdom
Find out more: https://lexliverpool.com/
Destination Liverpool tourism information: https://www.visitliverpool.com/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Step Back Into Maritime History Aboard HX Expeditions’ Remarkable 1896 Cabin

1896 Cabin

Luxury expedition cruising meets immersive historical storytelling with the unveiling of HX Expeditions’ extraordinary 1896 Cabin, now welcoming guests aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen, the world’s first hybrid battery-powered expedition cruise ship.

Inspired by the original cabins used during pioneering sea voyages more than 130 years ago, this one-of-a-kind accommodation invites travellers to experience what life at sea may have felt like during the golden age of exploration — while sailing aboard one of the most technologically advanced expedition ships operating today.

Blending authentic period craftsmanship with modern practicality, the 1896 Cabin is already shaping up to be one of the most fascinating experiences in expedition cruising.

A Living Tribute To The Origins Of Expedition Cruising

The newly revealed 1896 Cabin is far more than themed accommodation. It has been carefully designed as a tribute to HX Expeditions’ maritime heritage and the daring spirit of early explorers.

According to HX Expeditions Chief Executive Officer Gebhard Rainer, the cabin was created to honour the company’s origins and give guests a vivid insight into the realities of life aboard nineteenth-century expedition vessels.

Rather than simply displaying historic artefacts behind glass, the concept allows guests to actively inhabit a reimagined explorer’s cabin, transforming maritime history into an immersive overnight adventure.

Located aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen, HX Expeditions’ pioneering hybrid-battery powered expedition vessel, the cabin creates a striking contrast between historic design inspiration and contemporary sustainable cruising innovation.

Handcrafted Design Inspired By Nineteenth Century Exploration

The 1896 Cabin has been meticulously crafted using authentic materials and period-inspired design elements to recreate the atmosphere of late nineteenth-century seafaring life.

The 28-square-metre space features handcrafted wooden interiors designed to echo classic expedition ships, with more than 140 individual timber components incorporated into the build.

The craftsmanship behind the cabin is extraordinary. Recycled old oak planks have been used extensively throughout the flooring, while reclaimed timber sourced from traditional threshing barns forms much of the wall and ceiling construction.

In total, the project required an impressive 309 working hours to complete.

Perhaps most remarkably, some of the timber originates from an old cabin in Germany, adding genuine historical character and a tangible connection to Europe’s architectural past.

Vintage Sleeping Quarters With Surprising Hidden Details

Guests staying in the 1896 Cabin can expect accommodation unlike anything found in conventional cruise suites.

The room contains more than twenty individual furniture pieces, carefully selected to reflect expedition-era interiors. Sleeping arrangements include traditional bunk beds for two guests alongside a single bed, reinforcing the authentic maritime atmosphere.

Throughout the cabin, visitors will discover wooden chests, stools, wardrobes, chairs, an old-style writing desk and a playful hidden surprise — a concealed bar cleverly integrated inside a barrel.

The designers have embraced historical accuracy down to the smallest details. Even an old-fashioned wooden toilet seat has been installed to strengthen the sense of stepping into another era.

A feature fireplace with stone-effect styling and ambient lighting provides a warm focal point, while vintage maritime décor including expedition artefacts, horns and framed nautical artwork complete the immersive aesthetic.

Where Sustainable Innovation Meets Maritime Heritage

One of the most intriguing aspects of the 1896 Cabin is its location aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen.

While the cabin transports guests back to the age of nineteenth-century exploration, the ship itself represents the future of responsible expedition cruising.

As HX Expeditions’ first hybrid-battery powered expedition vessel, MS Fridtjof Nansen demonstrates how innovation and environmental consciousness can coexist with adventure travel.

The pairing of heritage storytelling with sustainable maritime technology creates a uniquely layered guest experience — one that celebrates both the past achievements of explorers and the evolving future of expedition cruising.

Why The 1896 Cabin Is One Of Cruising’s Most Unique New Experiences

In a travel landscape increasingly focused on meaningful experiences, the 1896 Cabin offers something refreshingly different.

Rather than delivering standard luxury alone, it provides guests with the opportunity to sleep within a richly detailed recreation of expedition history while sailing through some of the world’s most dramatic destinations aboard a cutting-edge expedition ship.

For cruise travellers, history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, this immersive accommodation concept delivers a rare opportunity to connect emotionally with the origins of polar and expedition exploration.

The 1896 Cabin is not simply a room. It is a voyage into maritime history.

HX Expeditions

Website: https://www.travelhx.com/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Nature and Renewal in Echuca Moama: Australia’s Quiet River Escape

Campaspe River Loop

Set beyond the historic port and lively riverfront, Echuca Moama reveals a softer, more restorative side. Here, the landscape opens into wetlands, ancient forests and peaceful trails that invite travellers to slow down and reconnect with nature.

This is where Echuca Moama distinguishes itself as more than a heritage destination. It becomes a place of balance, offering both cultural depth and natural calm, all within easy reach of town.

Walks and Rides Through River Country

Exploring Echuca Moama on foot or by bike is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the region. Scenic tracks such as the Murray River Walk and the Campaspe River Loop link riverbanks, bushland and town centre with ease.

These accessible trails are suited to all fitness levels, making them ideal for relaxed morning walks, cycling adventures or gentle afternoon exploration. Along the way, changing landscapes reveal towering gums, open river views and quiet pockets of native bush that feel far removed from urban life.

The simplicity of these experiences is part of their appeal. There is no need for complex planning, just the freedom to move at your own pace and take in the surroundings.

Red Gum Forests and Timeless Landscapes

Beyond the immediate riverfront, the environment expands into some of the most significant River Red Gum ecosystems in Australia. The nearby Koondrook-Perricoota National Park and Gunbower Forest showcase vast floodplain forests shaped by the natural rhythms of the Murray River.

These landscapes are defined by towering red gums, seasonal wetlands and a rich diversity of plant and animal life. They are particularly striking for photographers and nature enthusiasts, offering ever-changing light, reflections and textures throughout the day.

Exploring these areas provides a deeper understanding of the region’s ecological importance, as well as a sense of quiet that is increasingly rare in modern travel.

Wildlife Encounters in Their Natural Habitat

Kyabram Fauna Park

Echuca Moama offers frequent and memorable encounters with Australian wildlife. Birdlife thrives along the river, with species ranging from pelicans and cockatoos to smaller native birds that animate the bush with sound and movement.

In more open areas, kangaroos and emus can often be seen moving through the landscape, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon. These natural sightings add an element of surprise and connection to every visit.

For families and those seeking a more structured experience, Kyabram Fauna Park provides an opportunity to get closer to native animals in a relaxed, educational setting. It complements the wild encounters of the region with accessible, family-friendly interaction.

A Destination That Restores Without Isolation

What makes Echuca Moama unique is its ability to deliver genuine restoration without requiring complete disconnection. Nature is always close, yet never difficult to reach. Visitors can move seamlessly from riverside cafés to forest trails, from cultural experiences to quiet natural spaces.

This balance aligns with the growing demand for travel that prioritises wellbeing, simplicity and authenticity. It offers the benefits of immersion in nature while maintaining the comforts and accessibility of a well-established destination.

Why Nature in Echuca Moama Matters Now

As travellers increasingly seek meaningful, low-stress escapes, Echuca Moama stands out for its ability to provide both experience and ease. Its natural landscapes are not distant attractions but integral parts of the journey.

From peaceful walks and cycling trails to expansive red gum forests and close encounters with wildlife, the region offers a form of travel that feels grounded and restorative. It is a destination where slowing down is not just encouraged, but inevitable.

For more information, visit: https://www.echucamoama.com/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/