Need a Last-Minute Present This Holiday Season

In the final hours of the gift-giving season, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts gift cards are available for purchase online for immediate delivery and redemption.

Enjoy the winter wonderland in a real life snow globe. The only hotel in the area with a true ski-in, ski-out experience, Fairmont Tremblant has debuted a stunning new outdoor pool terrace, emerging as both a modern wellness oasis and a premier après ski experience, with sought-after views of the slopes and the village.

Follow Fairmont Château Whistler's Experience Guides for off-the-track outings and mountain adventures to discover the true essence of the region. From snow shoeing around Lost Lake, to taking a dip in Polar Bear Lake, the resort's expert guides are the best hosts for enjoying the mesmerizing beauty of winter.

Guests have three options for enjoying the pristine powder and diverse terrain of the Canadian Rockies. Fairmont's castle in the clouds, Fairmont Banff Springs, offers multiple ways to play in the snow, from snowshoeing and snow tubing, to snowmobiling and sleigh rides, to exploring the small mountain town of Banff. Perched right on the spectacular frozen Lake Louise, Fairmont Château Lake Louise is the perfect home base for sleigh rides around the lake, winter campfires, ice skating, and warm mulled wine from the Ice Bar. Snuggle by the fire in one of Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge's cozy cabins or the picturesque main lodge overlooking Lac Beauvert, before venturing out to explore the frozen natural wonderland.

Escape the cold to one of Fairmont's luxury oceanfront resorts. Following Fairmont Mayakoba's recent multi-million-dollar renovation, the resort debuted a complete overhaul of all guest rooms, casitas, and suites; all restaurants & bars; the resort's three beach pools and main pool; reception area, and lobby. The crown jewel of the project, the resort's breathtaking new beach club, Maykana, delivers grand terraces, private luxury cabanas, sunken fire pits, seaside pools, and five new dining experiences with sweeping ocean views of the Caribbean.

Fresh off an extensive property-wide transformation, Fairmont Kea Lani boasts new artfully redesigned suites and villas, along with a newly reimagined open-air lobby – complete with flowing waterfalls, lush gardens, and breathtaking ocean views. Just beyond the lobby is Hale Kukuna, the resort's brand-new Hawaiian culture center, an immersive space designed to inspire deeper connections to Maui and Hawai'i.

Indulge at one of Fairmont's signature spas. Introducing Fairmont Pacific Rim's new Nordic Spa. Surrounded by harbour and mountain views, soak in the hot tub, submerge in the cold plunge, and find solace in the cedar plank sauna. Be gently reintroduced into reality in heated relaxation areas while draped in cozy robes and slippers, sip on creative cocktails or champagne, and nourish with a delicious menu of seasonal and local dishes.

Everything about the Forbes Travel Guide Five Star-rated 14,000-square-foot spa at Fairmont Century Plaza, in Los Angeles, spells relaxation, rejuvenation and mind-body harmony - nurturing beauty inside and out. Step under the experiential rainfall-style shower and select the optimal pressure, scent and color to match your mood. Unwind in the aromatherapy steam room and detox in the sanarium, a moderate temperature sauna with increased humidity for maximum comfort. Best-in-class amenities also include a female-only Himalayan salt room and modern hammam. The spa also offers a first-of-its-kind biohacking treatment developed in collaboration with leading authority Dr. Oz Garcia.

Splurge on one of Fairmont's unforgettable suites. The 6,000-square-foot sprawling Penthouse Suite at Fairmont San Francisco is the ultimate in urban luxury. Custom furnishings, hand-carved woods and original artwork by greats like David Hockney accent the regal golds, purples and blues, setting the tone of 1920s eclectic opulence. Start with cocktails in the two-story library, and look for the secret passage hidden behind one of the bookcases. Enjoy dinner in the formal dining room, which seats up to 30 guests in Art Deco style. Indulge in desserts on the sprawling Mediterranean-inspired terrace. Retire after dinner to the ornate Moorish-design billiard room or enjoy live entertainment with the living room grand piano.

Famed for its history of lavish events and hosting the stars of screen and stage, The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, offers a number of sumptuous suites, complete with white glove butler service. The two-story Penthouse Suite boasts a private terrace offering incredible views of the city and Central Park. Designed by Oscar winner Catherine Martin, the elegant Fitzgerald Suite perfectly evokes the era of author F. Scott Fitzgerald, one of The Plaza's most illustrious patrons. Look for the pink door down the corridor and step into Eloise's very own room at The Plaza, complete with a sparkly pink headboard, zebra carpet, and a huge neon sign that says "Eloise!".

Gift cards go even further with Fairmont Moments. Receive up to 25 percent off stays through April 30, 2024, when booked before March 29, 2024, at participating Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. Members of ALL - Accor Live Limitless, Accor's loyalty programme, enjoy the benefit of up to an additional 10 percent off with Members' Rates, among other perks.

About Fairmont

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is where the intimate equally coexists with the infinite – an unrivaled portfolio of more than 80 extraordinary hotels where grand moments of life, heartfelt pleasures and personal milestones are celebrated and remembered long after any visit. Since 1907, Fairmont has created magnificent, meaningful and unforgettable hotels, rich with character and deeply connected to the history, culture and community of its destinations – places such as The Plaza in New York City, The Savoy in London, Fairmont San Francisco, Fairmont Banff Springs in Canada, Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, and Fairmont The Palm in Dubai. Famous for its engaging service, awe-inspiring public spaces, locally inspired cuisine, and iconic bars and lounges, Fairmont also takes great pride in its pioneering approach to hospitality and leadership in sustainability and responsible tourism practices. Fairmont is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group consisting of 5,300 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

fairmont.com | all.accor.com | group.accor.com

Leisure Travel Market to Generate $8.6 Trillion by 2032

The Brainy Insights estimates that the USD 1.2 trillion leisure travel market will reach USD 8.6 trillion by 2032. Travelling for enjoyment and relaxation is referred to as leisure travel. It consists of sections on cruises, vacation spots, activities for the holidays, online travel marketplace, tour operators, and travel agents. The cruise industry primarily concerns passenger volume, cruise destinations and calls, bookings, and occupancy rates. The sections on vacation spots and activities examine both domestic and foreign travel hotspots, as well as the goals of travel. With the advent of the internet, the online travel industry grew. This category includes digital travel experiences such as online reviews and online travel agencies (OTAs), which let travellers book travel services on their own. Even though OTAs have gained ground on physical travel agencies, some customers still prefer in-person assistance when making travel arrangements. In addition to examining the current health of these companies, this market examines travel agencies and tour operators' web presence.

Asia Pacific to account for the largest market size during the forecast period.

Due to increasing disposable income, Asia Pacific is expected to account for the largest market size during the forecast period. A growing middle class with more disposable money has resulted from the quick economic expansion in many Asia Pacific countries, including China, India, and Japan. When the financial situation improves, people can afford additional leisure activities, such as travel.

The solo segment dominated the market with the most significant revenue of USD 0.69 trillion.

The solo segment dominated the market with the most significant revenue of USD 0.69 trillion. Travellers who travel solo have become more common, leading industry players to honour solo and group travellers. Travelling solo is becoming increasingly popular since it allows people to learn new things, see other cultures, think back on their lives, and feel stronger.

The online channels segment dominated the market with the most significant revenue of USD 0.66 trillion.

The online channels segment dominated the market with the most significant revenue of USD 0.66 trillion. Online travel agencies are to make traveller bookings and planning easier. The ability to compare a wide range of travel options, quick and simple flight and hotel bookings, and growing customer confidence in online payment methods drive the internet travel business.

The 22-31 years segment dominated the market with the most significant revenue of USD 0.38 trillion.

The 22-31 years segment dominated the market with the most significant revenue of USD 0.38 trillion. People between the age group 22-31 years have a big bucket list, including going on a world cruise, spending a lengthy vacation on a luxury cruise liner, visiting exotic ports, and going on an expensive safari. They also have the time, money, and desire to explore exciting destinations.

The lodging segment dominated the market with the most significant revenue of USD 0.33 trillion.

The lodging segment dominated the market with the most significant revenue of USD 0.33 trillion. Lodging is a costly aspect of travelling, propelling the segment's growth.

Drivers: Growing popularity of experiential travel

The tourism industry is expanding as a result of the rising travel demand. Modern travellers seek more meaningful and genuine experiences that let them interact with local people, customs, and cultures. A greater understanding of a destination's way of life and its people can be gained through experiential travel. Younger individuals like to create memories and stories to tell others, and they value experiences over tangible belongings.

Restraint: Natural disaster and health crisis

Natural catastrophes can cause travel patterns to be disrupted. Examples of these calamities include hurricanes, earthquakes, and pandemics like the recent COVID-19 outbreak. Health issues, travel limitations, and fear of infection can all contribute to a drop in travel demand.

Opportunity: Niche and speciality travel

Travel experiences that cater to specific interests, such as ecotourism, cultural immersion, gourmet excursions, and animal safaris, are in high demand. Creating niche travel goods and services can draw in a market of tourists looking for one-of-a-kind and customised travel experiences.

Challenge: Environmental concerns

A preference for environmentally friendly travel options is rising as people become more conscious of environmental challenges. This could provide difficulties for established travel agencies that do not prioritise environmentally responsible practices.

About the report:

The global leisure travel market is analyzed based on value (USD Trillion). All the segments have been analyzed on a worldwide, regional, and country basis. The study includes the analysis of more than 30 countries for each part. The report offers an in-depth analysis of driving factors, opportunities, restraints, and challenges for gaining critical insight into the market. The study includes Porter's five forces model, attractiveness analysis, raw material analysis, supply, and demand analysis, competitor position grid analysis, distribution, and marketing channels analysis.

About The Brainy Insights:

The Brainy Insights is a market research company, aimed at providing actionable insights through data analytics to companies to improve their business acumen. We have a robust forecasting and estimation model to meet the clients' objectives of high-quality output within a short span of time. We provide both customized (clients' specific) and syndicate reports. Our repository of syndicate reports is diverse across all the categories and sub-categories across domains. Our customized solutions are tailored to meet the clients' requirements whether they are looking to expand or planning to launch a new product in the global market. thebrainyinsights.com

Enhancing Web3 Initiatives for the Travel and Hospitality Industry

Global vacation club platform, Staynex™, has announced a partnership with tech giant, Huawei, to leverage Web3 technologies and enhance the travel and hospitality industry.

This partnership will potentially offer users a more comprehensive travel experience with increased convenience and variety using advanced AI tools. The firm will provide travellers with a wider range of hotels and itinerary options to suit their preferences, lifestyles, and budgets. This significant development reinforces Staynex’s™ dedication to creating superior travel solutions for a wide-ranging audience.

“We anticipate that our partnership with Huawei will facilitate the creation of more solutions for the travel and hospitality industry,” states Bernard Lau, Founder and CEO of Staynex™. “We are keen to explore the numerous opportunities and aim to empower global travellers.”

“We are delighted to partner with Staynex™ to augment its platform with our cutting-edge technological tools, while also allowing us to improve our range of corporate services,” shares Rex Lei, Managing Director of Huawei Cloud Singapore. ” With our expertise in cloud technology, we currently support companies across numerous industries. We are confident that this partnership will enable us to develop more efficient and advanced information and communication technology (ICT) solutions for the travel and hospitality industry.“

Staynex™, an integral component of the LABS Group ecosystem, will offer its AI-powered Travel Solutions, supported by Huawei’s innovative technology. Staynex™ is set to introduce solutions for everyday travellers and in addition, it will offer corporate solutions designed to streamline the process of booking travel tickets for employees attending events such as conferences.

The partnership also includes Staynex’s™ integration into the Huawei Marketplace, providing millions of Huawei device users with easy access to Staynex’s™ comprehensive travel platform.

Staynex™ plans to use this partnership to accelerate its expansion into the Chinese market and beyond.

About Staynex™

Staynex™, operating as part of the Labs Group Ecosystem, is a global vacation club platform aiming to reshape the travel and hospitality industry. It utilizes advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and Web3 to improve individual travel experiences and streamline corporate travel bookings. Staynex™ is committed to continuous service enhancement and global expansion, fostering a vision of making travel more accessible, efficient, and enjoyable for everyone.

2023 Golden Melody Festival Successfully Concludes

The 2023 Golden Melody Festival has recently concluded successfully. This year not only marks the festival's 10th anniversary but also signifies the first time in three years since the pandemic that physical business activities have resumed in Taiwan and abroad. Minister of Culture, Shih Che, emphasized the remarkable growth of the Golden Melody Festival during his remarks. From its inception with 62 exhibitors to the current edition featuring a total of 450 exhibitors from both domestic and international backgrounds, including an impressive count of 83 international exhibitors. The festival's objective extends beyond delivering outstanding programs; it also serves as a platform to showcase Taiwan's musical prowess and its determination to forge international connections in the music industry.

The 2023 Golden Melody Festival, featuring a series of Business to Business events, including Keynotes, SHOWCASE Concert, Biz Matching Center, and Speed Meetings, took place from June 28th to 30th.

This time, the Keynotes hosted 11 industry heavyweights from Taiwan and abroad as speakers and panelists. Notably, Jen Malone, a three-time Emmy-nominated music supervisor involved in multiple popular TV series soundtracks, discussed the scope of international music supervision. Grammy-winning artists James Fauntleroy and Larrance 'Rance' Dopson shared their insights on fan engagement and songwriting tips. Jaeson Ma, co-founder of 88rising, and Kossy NG, Spotify's Asia Music Director, focused on the development of the Asian music market. Additionally, renowned concert producer Isaac Chen explored the differences between concert management in Taiwan and overseas.

The Golden Melody Festival has been promoting Taiwan's music and fostering international exchange. In recent years, it has forged GMA Partnerships program with overseas music festivals, strengthening collaboration and creating more opportunities for exceptional local bands and artists to showcase their talents on the global stage. This year, the festival has partnered with the Wanderland Music & Arts Festival in the Philippines, the Baybeats Music Festival in Singapore, the Big Mountain Music Festival in Thailand, and the MaMA Music Festival in France. Through artist invitations, captivating performances, captivating exhibitions, and effective promotional activities, the festival serves as a conduit for bilateral music and cultural exchange. It not only introduces diverse international music creations to Taiwan but also supports gifted domestic musicians in expanding their international presence.

In addition, the strong lineup of the "SHOWCASE Concert" featured nine domestic singers and bands including Karencici, The Dinosaur's Skin, L8ching, I Mean Us, Jerry Li/CLOUDRIVER, Outlet Drift, Paige Su, Kasiwa, and Iruka Police, as well as international artists invited through GMA Partnerships, including the Filipino band Flu, the Singaporean band motifs, and the Thai idol group PERSES. They have brought a rich and diverse range of music performances.

In this era of abundant music creations, musicians not only need to produce excellent music but also find viable business models to translate creativity into tangible profits. The Golden Melody Festival serves as a platform for industry collaboration, where music professionals from Taiwan and abroad can discuss emerging industry topics, exchange information, and help promote the visibility and audibility of musicians' works. It facilitates industry cooperation and cross-border collaborations, paving the way for diverse cooperation models and broader market opportunities.

Great Canadian Entertainment's Transformative Resort

Great Canadian Entertainment, Canada's leader in gaming and hospitality, is pleased to announce that the brand-new gaming floor and multiple dining venues open to the public at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto.

Adjacent to Woodbine Racetrack, the brand-new destination is the newest and largest casino resort in Canada and one of the largest in North America. Gaming enthusiasts will be captivated by 328,000 square feet of gaming space featuring an extensive range of options, including 4,800 slot machines, 145 live table games, VIP rooms, and sports betting kiosks. Whether you're a seasoned player or Vegas-style entertainment seeker, Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto offers an exhilarating atmosphere that caters to all preferences.

The landmark resort, situated on an impressive 33 acres is redefining entertainment in Toronto and promises an unparalleled experience for its guests. Seamlessly integrated and opening later this summer is a luxurious 400-room hotel, featuring well-appointed rooms and suites across 11 floors. A fully equipped wellness centre featuring an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and contemporary fitness equipment will open later this year. In the coming months, the property will unveil a state-of-the-art 5,000-person entertainment venue, providing a versatile destination for live music, comedy, sports and special events. Through an exclusive booking partnership with Live Nation, The Theatre at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto will feature world-class artists to amplify the guest experience.

The resort's dedication to public art is evident, with $5 million invested in one-of-a-kind artworks displayed prominently throughout the property. Artists were carefully selected by a jury of fellow artists and community stakeholders through public commissioning opportunities, ensuring equitable representation of diverse and underrepresented communities.

As a commitment to environmental sustainability, Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto showcases a stunning 250,000 square feet of green roof, the second largest in Canada. Solar panel canopies further reduce the site's carbon footprint, and electric vehicle parking spots are available for eco-conscious guests.

The resort is creating a significant economic impact, with an investment of approximately $1 billion and an estimated $500 million in economic benefit for Ontario. Moreover, nearly 2,000 team members will be employed, contributing to job growth and prosperity in the region. The City of Toronto has received more than $357 million as its share of gaming revenue since the introduction of Casino Woodbine.

Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto is a comprehensive entertainment destination, offering a variety of dining and shopping experiences. The property will host 15 retail locations, with a combined 35,000 square feet of retail space, providing visitors with a variety of renowned brands. Food lovers will be delighted by the diverse culinary options, including the elegant Copperhorn Meet House, the charming CA.SU.AL gastropub, and The Eatery, offering delectable grab-and-go salads and sandwiches.

The Food Hall, operated by Woodbine Entertainment Group, will feature a variety of favourites including Tim Hortons, Big Smoke Burger, Noodlebox, MB Express and Pizzaiolo. Additional dining experiences will be announced soon.

A well-lit parkade with 3,800 covered parking spaces offers 24-hour security and multiple entrances providing easy access to the resort, ensuring convenience for all visitors.

"We are thrilled to finally unveil Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto to the world," said Matthew Anfinson, Chief Executive Officer, Great Canadian Entertainment. "Our team has worked tirelessly for several years to create an unrivaled entertainment experience that will leave a lasting impression on our guests. The opening of this first phase of Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto is incredibly exciting for all of us, and we are very eager to reveal the next phases, including the hotel and The Theatre, in the coming weeks and months."

Consistent with Great Canadian Entertainment's commitment to responsible gaming, the company, along with its partner, Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, remain focused on promoting safe play to keep the fun in the game. As part of that commitment, the destination will feature a PlaySmart Centre on the gaming floor, filled with engaging interactive tools and valuable responsible gambling resources available for all players.

Great Canadian Rewards members can take advantage of exclusive offers, including the lowest available rates, free or discounted stays, and other valuable benefits at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, and across the company's 12 properties in Ontario. It is free to join. To learn more about Great Canadian Rewards please visit: www.greatcanadian.com/greatcanadianrewards

With a profound dedication to exceptional service and guest satisfaction, Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto embraces its commitment to inclusivity, ensuring a warm and inviting atmosphere for all.

Founded in 1982, Great Canadian Entertainment is Canada's premier gaming and hospitality company with 25 gaming, entertainment, hospitality and resort facilities in Ontario, British Columbia, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, Canada's largest casino resort, is now open and will include a 400-room hotel, 5,000-person entertainment venue, parkade with 3,800 covered parking spaces, and multiple on-site dining options. Committed to investing in and offering opportunity to those in the communities in which it operates, Great Canadian supports more than 1,400 charitable and non-profit organizations across Canada under its PROUD program, "PROUD of our people, our business, our community". A significant portion of gross gaming revenue from Great Canadian's gaming facilities is retained by Crown partners on behalf of their provincial governments for the purpose of supporting programs that benefit healthcare, education, and social services in Canada.

Discover Palau with Four Seasons Explorer

Remote and untouched – imagine a beautiful wilderness awash with natural and cultural wonders. Four Seasons Explorer is setting sail to one of the world's last remaining frontiers beginning later this year. Hidden in a remote part of the mighty Pacific, discover Palau—home to more than 340 emerald islands, an astonishing spectrum of marine life, and a 4,000-year-old culture still sustained by the local knowledge of 20,000 traditionally minded people - the most vital element of the unique Palauan culture.

Referred to as one of the Seven Underwater Wonders of the World, with a half million square kilometres (193,000 square miles) of protected marine territory, Palau offers glorious opportunities for divers and snorkellers. But that's just the start of the island nation's wondrous appeal. With only 9 of the country's 340 islands inhabited, opportunities for raw natural adventure abound, while deep cultural immersions range from insights into the rich Palauan dance tradition—awash with powerful chanting, storytelling and vibrant colours—to intriguing exploration of WWII sites, symbolic bai meeting houses, and centuries of Spanish, German, Japanese and American influences.

"The core Palauan value of omengull—respecting all and everything—deeply aligns with our values at Four Seasons," notes Regional Vice President Armando Kraenzlin. "Right from the Palauan Pledge that all visitors are asked to sign upon arrival, visitors are immersed in one of the world's most unique cultures, founded on tradition and respect. It's a thrilling paradise for anyone seeking harmony with nature, and the opportunity to learn and embrace the unique Palauan way of life."

Discover One of the World's Last Remaining Natural Frontiers

More than 1,400 species of fish and 500 species of healthy corals thrive in Palau's crystal waters and elevated lakes. The nation became the world's first shark sanctuary in 2009, covering more than 600,000 square kilometres of ocean (230,000 square miles) while the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Palau's astonishing spectrum of ocean life make it a paradise for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

With a draft of 1.9 metres (6.23 feet), Four Seasons Explorer can access locations that larger vessels can't reach, while its PADI 5-Star Dive Centre ensures expert multi-lingual instructors, the latest gear and onboard videographer, as well as custom-designed dive and excursion boats for direct entry to even the most inaccessible dive sites.

Bucket-list amazement lies around every corner for divers, from the glittering stalactite formations of Chandelier Cave to the WWII history of Helmet Wreck; the gorgonian fans of Blue Corner to the dazzling canyons of Peleliu Wall. Experiences are equally awe-inspiring for snorkellers: millions of stingless golden and moon jellyfish in Jellyfish Lake; giant 115 kilogram (250 pounds) tridacna clams in Clam City; rabbitfish, turtles and goatfish in the crystal clear Ngedebus Coral Gardens—all accessed via guided excursions with Four Seasons marine biologists.

Cultural Explorations

The scattered islands of Micronesia's Palau are home to a unique culture and intriguing heritage bound by a deep respect for the environment that has sustained generations of people. Four Seasons Explorer on-shore excursions are handled by insightful guides and include visiting Palau's oldest bai (meeting house); exploring the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, estimated to date back to the year 161; marvelling at the cave paintings of Ulong Island; discovering the Belau National Museum, multiple WWII sites, traditional music, lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and more.

Recreational activities on offer include windsurfing, stand-up paddling and kayaking, while wellness experiences showcase soothing yoga, breathing and restorative treatments on-board or on a secluded beach. Explorer guests can bathe in mineral-rich mud, learn traditional Palauan fishing techniques, hike, bird-watch or even learn to pronounce a few Palauan phrases.

A World of Culinary Creativity

Aboard Four Seasons Explorer, each day begins with an array of à-la-carte breakfast choices. Meals served on-board are all-inclusive (with the exception of alcoholic beverages) with lunch and dinner menus changing daily, themed on regional creations from Palau and elsewhere in the Pacific, as well as Asia and the West. Highlights include regular beach barbecues complete with insights into Palauan music and culture – always with fresh (and where possible, local) ingredients – gourmet flourishes and an extensive wine list.

A Floating Resort

Four Seasons Explorer operates like a floating resort, offering daily embarkations and disembarkations, allowing up to 22 guests to explore as deeply—and for as long—as they wish. With the freedom to focus on personal areas of interest among Palau's many bucket-list wonders, both underwater and on land, all adventures are entirely bespoke.

Guests can also look forward to a variety of on-board experiences, from connecting with Palauan people, chefs and musicians to learning from expert marine biologists and indulging in wellness experiences with spa therapists and yogis.

Multi-Destination Discovery

Given its remote location, Palau is ideally experienced in conjunction with other nearby destinations. Palau International Airport in Koror is currently accessible via Taipei, Honolulu, Guam, Manila and Brisbane, with the island nation well placed for further exploration of Australia, the Philippines, Taiwan and other islands of Oceania such as Yap, Chuuk and the Federated States of Micronesia.

Private Charters

Four Seasons Explorer will also be available for fully customizable private yacht charters in Palau for groups of up to 22—including dedicated charters for surf enthusiasts with the experts from Tropicsurf, from uncrowded "best-kept secret" breaks on the east and west coast reefs to adventurous "surfaris" off the country's fringing islands during the winter months.

About Four Seasons Explorer

Four Seasons Explorer is a 39 metre (128 foot) luxury catamaran built by Image Marine of Perth, Australia. Its three decks accommodate 10 staterooms with king beds bathed in natural light from large windows, and the lavish Explorer Suite featuring an indoor dining area, walk-in wardrobe and private sundeck with panoramic views across the vessel's bow. Complete with its own PADI 5-Star Dive Centre, recreation desk, restaurant, bar, lounge and library, Four Seasons Explorer features a dedicated team primed to create customized experiences, including a marine biologist, chefs and spa therapist plus dive, snorkelling, freediving and water sports experts.

Four Seasons Explorer is owned by HPL Limited, the owner-partner of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in Indonesia, Malaysia, Maldives, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Tanzania and Vietnam. The company also announced plans for a joint-venture to develop a new Four Seasons hotel in Osaka, Japan.

About Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts opened its first hotel in 1961, and since that time has been dedicated to perfecting the travel experience through continual innovation and the highest standards of hospitality. Currently operating 126 hotels and resorts, and 53 residential properties in major city centres and resort destinations in 47 countries, and with more than 50 projects under planning or development, Four Seasons consistently ranks among the world's best hotels and most prestigious brands in reader polls, traveller reviews and industry awards. For more information and reservations, visit fourseasons.com.

Travelzoo META Opens

The future of travel is here. After months of anticipation, Travelzoo META, a members-only service offering groundbreaking Metaverse travel experiences, is now accepting its first one million Founding Members. Launched by Travelzoo(R) (NASDAQ: TZOO), a global Internet media company, Travelzoo META will give Founding Members the opportunity to be the first to experience travel in the Metaverse.

Travelzoo META's experiences are intended to allow its members to explore hard-to-reach corners of the world, like summiting Mount Everest, or travel back in time - to Ancient Rome, perhaps. They can also discover new spaces beyond imagination. All this is possible using a mobile or desktop device and a simple browser. Travelzoo META members can use their existing device as a portal to a whole new dimension.

With sign-ups now open, Travelzoo META invites those who share a vision of a world that ebbs and flows as far as the mind wanders to become Founding Members. Each Founding Member will be entitled to one of the world's first personality-based, emotionally-driven Travel Companions (NFTs). To match their personal Metaverse travel style, Founding Members will be invited to pick their one-of-a-kind Travel Companion from an interactive gallery of one million unique NFTs. No two Travel Companions are the same. Once a Founding Member claims their special Travel Companion, no one else can travel with it in the Metaverse.

Represented as fantastical animals, the Travel Companions signify a world with no limitations, cages, bars, or borders. They encourage a freedom to enjoy a life of adventure brimming with extraordinary experiences.

"Travelzoo META is the future of travel," said Arveena Ahluwalia, General Manager of Travelzoo META. "Not only does it remove limitations of physical ability and imagination, but it also allows us to bring people closer together through shared experiences."

Social connection is one of the largest drivers of interest in the Metaverse, according to a study by global consulting firm McKinsey & Company. Travelzoo META members will be able to share experiences alongside their loved ones - no matter where in the world they are - or make new connections with likeminded travelers.

Travelzoo META Founding Members will not just be the first to experience the future of travel in the Metaverse; they also get to shape it. Founding Members can test beta experiences and share their feedback, contributing to how future Metaverse travel experiences are imagined.

Travelzoo META is a paid members-only service offering groundbreaking Metaverse travel experiences. Working in partnership with cutting-edge creators, we have access to the latest immersive experiences that are intended to allow members to explore hard-to-reach corners of the world, travel back in time, or discover new spaces beyond imagination.

JCB offers discount campaign in Tokyo

JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan's only international payment brand, announces the launch of a campaign with TOKYO TOWER Co., Ltd. to offer JCB cardmembers outside Japan a 30% discount on the admission fee to the Main Deck Observatory (150m) and a 10% discount on purchases at the Tokyo Tower Official Shop.

From May 15, 2023 to April 30, 2024 (JST), JCB cardmembers from outside Japan receive a 30% discount on tickets for the Main Deck Observatory (150m) and a 10% discount on their purchase at the Tokyo Tower Official Shop (THE SKY on the second floor of the Main Deck Observatory and GALAXY on the third floor of FOOT TOWN). To receive this offer, JCB cardmembers simply present the JCB Special Offers campaign page and pay with their JCB Card which was issued outside Japan. For more information on the campaign, please visit JCB Special Offers.

JCB and TOKYO TOWER Co., Ltd. have partnered to welcome tourists from outside of Japan with this special offer to enrich the experience of visiting Japan for JCB cardmembers outside of Japan, and to welcome many visitors to Japan to Tokyo Tower, which has been the symbol of Tokyo and a familiar face since it opened in 1958, as a "uniquely Japanese" experience.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, the number of visitors to Japan has increased, with approximately 1.81 million foreign tourists visiting Japan in March 2023 (66% of the figure in FY2019), of which 72% were from Asian countries after the government's removal of entry restrictions in October 2022. JCB is actively increasing the number of cardmembers, mainly in East Asia and the ASEAN region, and is continuously developing new services and special offers for JCB cardmembers around the world.

As a Japanese brand with a spirit of hospitality, JCB provides services that enrich JCB cardmembers' travel experience. Visit "JCB Global," the official YouTube channel, and the JCB Special Offers website for beneficial campaigns and convenient services in multiple languages.

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 41 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 150 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide.