This new route is a notable expansion for Drukair, which already serves nine international and three domestic destinations from Paro International Airport. Tandi Wangchuk, CEO of Drukair, highlighted the importance of the route for both travellers and Bhutan’s global presence, saying, “Launching services to Dubai is a proud moment for Drukair. It reflects our expanding international presence and our dedication to connecting Bhutan to the world.”

Read More: Journey to Joy: Exploring Bhutan’s Ancient Pathways to Wellness

The Dubai-Paro route offers leisure travellers and adventure seekers a fresh opportunity to immerse themselves in Bhutan’s culture and stunning landscapes, now just a few hours from Dubai. ◼

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© This article was first published online in Nov 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Dubai to Bhutan: New Direct Flights Make Paro Closer Than Ever first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

This marks the second season of the drop zone, offering both novice and experienced skydivers a heart-pounding opportunity to freefall toward the breathtaking turquoise waters and pristine islands of this tropical paradise.

Skydive Maldives promises an unforgettable adventure with tandem jumps, allowing participants to reach speeds of up to 120 mph while plunging toward the glass-like blue ocean. Prior to the jump, all participants will undergo a comprehensive training session to ensure safety and confidence.

 

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As you descend from the sky, a 360-degree panoramic view of the Maldives’ idyllic islands and the vast Indian Ocean will unfold beneath you, providing an unparalleled perspective of this tropical haven.

For those looking to capture every moment of their adrenaline-filled adventure, the ‘Royal Experience’ package offers a fully documented jump with multiple camera angles, including an additional professional cameraman. This elevated option ensures that every exhilarating second is preserved for a lifetime.

With an airport on the island and a unique partnership with Skydive Wasaga Beach, Ifuru Island’s Skydive Maldives offers an unmatched adventure in one of the world’s most beautiful locations. Whether you’re an experienced skydiver or a first-time thrill-seeker, this is an opportunity to see the Maldives from a truly unforgettable vantage point. ◼

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© This article was first published online in Oct 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

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This move follows the success of Emirates’ first-ever A380 service to Indonesia, which launched on June 1, 2023. The additional flight is expected to offer more than 2,600 extra weekly seats, providing greater flexibility and convenience for travellers.

Currently, Emirates operates scheduled double daily flights to Jakarta. With this new addition, the airline further strengthens its presence in Indonesia, enhancing connectivity and supporting the tourism sector.

As travel continues to rebound, Emirates’ expanded service to Bali is poised to attract even more visitors to the island, known for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. ◼

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© This article was first published online in Aug 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Emirates Announces Seasonal Second Daily Flight to Bali first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Qsuite Next Gen: What’s New and Why It Matters

In an era where airlines continuously upgrade their business class offerings, Qatar Airways has taken a bold step forward. The new Qsuite Next Gen, set to debut on the Boeing B777-9 aircraft by 2025, promises to enhance the already impressive Qsuite Business Class, which has been a global benchmark since its launch in 2017. This move aligns with a broader trend where airlines, including Korean Air with their Prestige Suites 2.0, are focusing on providing premium experiences to cater to discerning travellers.

The Qsuite Next Gen is designed to accommodate a variety of travel needs. Whether you are a professional, a group of friends, or a family, this new suite configuration offers greater flexibility. One of the standout features is the introduction of movable 4K OLED Panasonic Astrova IFE screens. These screens can be repositioned to the side, creating the largest social and productivity space in the sky. The Quad Suite can comfortably host up to four passengers, while the Companion Suite is perfect for two.

Travelers can look forward to increased space, making it easier, among other things, to dine together in the Quad or Companion Suites. Privacy has also been given a significant upgrade with taller, digitally controlled dividers, ensuring that passengers can enjoy their journey with minimal disturbance.

Qatar Airways’s new “Qsuite Next Gen” Raises Standards in Business Class

The sleeping arrangements have not been overlooked either. The Qsuite Next Gen boasts larger lie-flat and double beds, providing more shoulder space and legroom. Qatar Airways’ signature 5-star turn-down service, featuring a dedicated ‘Make My Bed’ feature, ensures that travellers can rest comfortably.

The Qsuite Next Gen is not just about luxury, it’s about providing a comprehensive and connected experience for every affluent traveller. Packed with technological enhancements, from ambient lighting to advanced privacy controls, everything can be managed through upgraded touchscreen Passenger Control Units. Security is also a priority, with digitally locked lockers for valuables during long-haul flights. Passengers can enjoy Bluetooth audio streaming for their headsets, as well as USB-C fast charging and wireless charging for their devices, ensuring they stay connected and entertained throughout their journey.

Read More: 7 Bucket-List Adventures You Must Experience In Qatar

As more airlines focus on enhancing their business class offerings, Qatar Airways continues to raise the standard, which everyone else aspires to. The Qsuite Next Gen is not just about luxury; it’s about providing a social, intimate experience for every affluent traveller. ◼

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© This article was first published online in Aug 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

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Prestige Suites 2.0 – its all about comfort and privacy

The Prestige Suites 2.0 mark a significant shift in Korean Air’s approach to business class, replacing first class to offer a more spacious and exclusive experience. The Dreamliner is configured with 325 seats, including 36 Prestige Class seats and 289 Economy Class seats. This move reflects a growing trend among airlines to prioritize business class comfort for long-haul travellers.

Each Prestige Suite is designed to function as an independent space, offering passengers a pod-like environment with high privacy. The seats fully recline to a flat 180 degrees, transforming into a comfortable bed. With an extended seat length of 78 inchs (about 198 cm) and a width of 21 inches (53 cm), travellers can enjoy a generous amount of personal space, essential for long-haul flights.

Korean Air’s new Prestige Suites 2

Korean Air’s new business class cabins are configured in a 1-2-1 grid, with a 52-inch slidable divider between seats in the middle aisle. These dividers can be lowered to create a personal zone for two, making it ideal for couples or friends travelling together. This innovative design ensures both privacy and flexibility, catering to the needs of divrse travellers.

The expanded personal space includes practical amenities such as a small counter for personal items, a personal storage compartment, a wireless phone charger, dual 220V/110V outlets, and two high-speed USB-C ports. Inflight Wi-Fi service is also available, allowing passengers to stay connected throughout their journey.

Prestige class passengers will enjoy a superior inflight entertainment experience with high-resolution monitors supporting 4K resolution. The 24-inch (60 cm) monitors have Bluetooth audio support, providing an immersive viewing experience that rivals home entertainment systems.

 

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The design of the Prestige Suites 2.0 is inspired by traditional Korean patterns, including “Jogakbo” patchwork, which showases Korea’s cultural beauty. The interiors feature a sophisticated palette of cream, gold, charcoal, and black with a blue tint, moving away from Korean Air’s distinctive light blue theme. This design choice not only enhances the cabin’s aesthetic appeal but also pays homage to Korea’s rich cultural heritage.

Korean Air’s Prestige Suites 2.0 rollout

Following its debut on teh Seoul Incheon to Tokyo Narita route, the new Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner with Prestige Suites 2.0 will soon be deployed on long-haul routes, including Seoul Incheon to Vancouver, the western United States, and Europe. This expansion will provide premium leisure travellers with a luxurious, comfortable flying experience across key international destinations. ◼

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© This article was first published online in July 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

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The Dior Spa at The Lana – A Sanctuary of Elegance and Tranquillity

The Dior Spa at The Lana elevates the lifestyle choices available in Dubai, providing a serene sanctuary bathed in natural daylight with panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa. With five treatment rooms and one couple’s suite, the spa seamlessly integrates holistic wellbeing with cutting-edge technology. Guests can expect an unparalleled experience that blends effective treatments focusing on fitness and movement.

The spa’s offerings include advanced therapies such as Icoone Therapy, Hydrafacial, Dior Micro-Abrasion, and the Dior Skin Light LED therapy mask. Each treatment is meticulously designed to rejuvenate and revitalize, ensuring a transformative experience. Additionally, the spa features a futon for Japanese-inspired treatments, providing a unique approach to relaxation and wellness.

Dior Spa The Lana – Product room

A dedicated beauty room offers meticulous nail services and makeup sessions by artists from the House of Dior, adding another layer of luxury to the experience. The Dior Spa at The Lana offers three exclusive treatments: Escale, which blends Japanese-inspired rituals with full-body stretching and deep massage strokes for ultimate relaxation; Dior Stone Therapy, which uses semi-precious stones and advanced facial techniques for comprehensive rejuvenation; and D-Sculpt, combining wood, dry brushing, and manual “skin lift” methods for transformative firming and slimming effects.

Dior Spa The Lana products

Guests can opt for a full-day indulgence or a half-day retreat, tailoring their experience to fit their schedules and needs. The spa also features a luxurious boutique offering Dior beauty product lines and an array of exquisite Dior jewellery, allowing guests to take a piece of the experience home with them.

Read More: Latest In Dubai: The ICON Yacht Experience at Madinat Jumeirah

The Lana, operated by the Dorchester Collection, boasts 225 rooms, suites, and eight exceptional restaurants. The addition of the Dior Spa further cements its status as a landmark of luxury in Dubai, promising guests an unparalleled blend of elegance, wellness, and indulgence. With the launch of the Dior Spa at The Lana, Dubai continues to elevate its status as a premier luxury destination. ◼

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© This article was first published online in May 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Elevate Your Spa Experience: Discover The Dior Spa at The Lana first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Laikipia, A Prime Wilderness Destination

Laikipia is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Home to Kenya’s second-largest population of elephants and one of the largest free-roaming wildlife populations on the continent, this region is a critical wildlife movement corridor between Laikipia and the northern conservancies. It supports diverse species, including endangered animals such as the melanistic leopard, African wild dog, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and desert warthog. Visitors can expect to see a thriving population of elephants and buffalo alongside predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and both striped and spotted hyenas.

The region’s landscapes are equally varied, featuring grasslands, savannas, rocky outcrops, dense vechellia woodlands, and over 16 kilometres of river frontage along the Ewaso Narok River. With 55 mammal species and over 260 bird species, Laikipia is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

&Beyond Suyian Lodge – A Unique Luxury Experience

&Beyond Suyian Lodge is poised to offer the finest luxury accommodation within this pristine conservancy. As the only luxury lodge and tented camp operator in Suyian Conservancy, &Beyond promises an exclusive and intimate safari experience. Guests can look forward to world-class game drives, tented camps, sky beds, and mobile camping experiences, all set against Mount Kenya’s majestic views.

Explore Laikipia’s Wild Luxury andBeyond Suyian Lodge

Conservation at Its Core at Suyian Conservancy, Kenya

The partnership between &Beyond and the global conservation charity Space for Giants underscores the lodge’s commitment to wildlife preservation. Space for Giants, founded by Dr. Max Graham, has been instrumental in transforming private ranches into thriving wildlife conservancies. The organisation operates across eleven African countries, with Laikipia as its heart and Suyian as its soul.

“Space for Giants has grown immensely in the last ten years and now operates across eleven countries in Africa,” explains Dr Graham. “If Laikipia is the heart of the organisation, Suyian is its soul.

&Beyond Suyian Lodge not only provides luxury and adventure but also contributes significantly to local conservation efforts. The lodge helps safeguard endangered species and their habitats by transforming private lands into protected areas, ensuring that wildlife thrives for generations.

Engaging Activities and Cultural Immersion at Suyian Lodge

Guests at &Beyond Suyian Lodge can immerse themselves in various activities that highlight the region’s natural and cultural richness. Walking safaris offer an up-close look at the diverse flora and historical artefacts, such as ancient cave paintings. Camel and horse-riding safaris provide unique perspectives on the landscape, while helicopter safaris offer breathtaking aerial views of the conservancy.

Fishing trips and interactions with local pastoral tribes, including the Samburu and Pokot, further enrich the experience and offer a deep dive into the local culture and traditions.

 

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Accessibility and Nearby Attractions in Kenya

Easily accessible by air or road from Nairobi, Suyian Lodge is a perfect base for exploring the Northern Frontier region of Kenya. Nearby attractions include the Samburu, the Matthews Range, the Endoto Range, Lake Turkana, and the Suguta Valley, offering additional adventures for intrepid travellers.

“Laikipia is a prime wilderness area that is home to a greater population of wildlife than anywhere else in Kenya outside of the Masai Mara. This includes a large number of globally threatened mammals that make it particularly important from a conservation perspective,” explains Joss Kent, &Beyond CEO and Executive Chairman.

Explore Laikipia’s Wild Luxury andBeyond Suyian Lodge

Read More: Adventure Beckons: Explore South Africa’s Garden Route

&Beyond Suyian Lodge in Laikipia is more than a luxurious retreat; it is a beacon of hope for wildlife conservation and an invitation to experience the unspoiled beauty of Kenya. As the opening date approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most important ecological regions. ◼

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© This article was first published online in May 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Explore Laikipia’s Wild Luxury: &Beyond Suyian Lodge first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

The Gateway to Bhutan’s Jo Bay Tsho Trek: A Scenic Prelude

The adventure begins with an 84-kilometer drive from the quaint village of Sangbaykha to Mochu, winding through Bhutan’s rural heartlands. This route is framed by progressive farming communities whose sustainable practices paint a vivid tableau of Bhutan’s commitment to environmental harmony and cultural preservation. The trek begins with a visit to a temple, home to a thousand statues of Guru Rinpoche, setting a reflective tone that resonates throughout the journey.

As trekkers move deeper into the valley, the landscape unfolds in natural beauty and tranquillity layers. The path weaves through lush green forests and dense clusters of bamboo that whisper tales of ancient times. The backdrop of majestic mountains is a constant companion, while the serene lakes dotting the pathway offer tranquil rest spots. Among these is Jo Bay Tsho, or Hidden Lake, a breathtaking natural reservoir stretching whose mirrored surface reflects the serene beauty of the surrounding flora and fauna.

Bhutans Jo Bay Tsho Trek image by Marcus Westberg Chelela Pass

The Jo Bay Tsho Trek Experience

The Jo Bay Tsho Trek is curated to both seasoned trekkers seeking a challenge and nature lovers yearning for tranquillity. The physical demands of the trek are balanced by the spiritual and visual nourishment it offers. As trekkers ascend through the varying terrains, they pass through a living storybook filled with legends of the divine and the spectral beauty of Bhutan’s natural world, inspiring a deeper connection with nature and oneself.

Read More: Haven in Bhutan: Discover &Beyond Punakha River Lodge

This trek is more than a hiking adventure; it’s a cultural immersion into Bhutanese heritage and natural beauty. It offers a rare opportunity to engage with the land and its people in a manner that respects both tradition and the environment. The inclusivity of the trek makes it suitable for a diverse range of adventurers, from those seeking spiritual solace to thrill-seekers desiring to conquer the mystery and beauty of the Himalayas, fostering a sense of engagement with the local culture and environment. ◼

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© This article was first published online in Apr 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Bhutan’s Jo Bay Tsho Trek: A New Pathway to Adventure first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

The ICON: Elegance Meets Sustainability in Dubai’s Luxury Yacht Experience

The ICON stands out as the world’s first battery-powered, emissions-free yacht, setting a new standard for the luxury travel industry. Designed by Designworks, a subsidiary of the BMW Group, in collaboration with German tech start-up TYDE, this 13.5-meter watercraft boasts a sleek, eye-catching design and impressive eco-friendly credentials. The yacht offers a silent journey across the waves, reaching up to 30 knots with a range of 50 nautical miles at 24 knots, ensuring guests enjoy a swift yet serene voyage.

The interior of The ICON is as impressive as its technological innovations. A spacious twenty-one square meter lounge-like setting, adorned with tasteful blue and gold decor, provides guests with stunning 360-degree views of the Persian Gulf, making every cruise an immersive experience in luxury.

The ICON Yacht Experience at Madinat Jumeirah

Exclusive Voyages from D-Marin Marsa Al Arab

The journey aboard The ICON begins at the D-Marin Marsa Al Arab Marina. This state-of-the-art facility is home to 82 yacht berths and offers spectacular views of iconic landmarks like the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Guests of the marina can embark on a scenic tour showcasing the best of Dubai’s coastline, including views of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Burj Al Arab, and Madinat Jumeirah itself.

This exclusive voyage is an environmentally conscious way to indulge in the splendour of a yacht tour, aligning with the growing trend of sustainable luxury travel. The ICON’s operation without emissions and its whisper-quiet navigation ensure that it harmonises with its surroundings, providing a guilt-free experience for eco-conscious travellers.

The ICON Yacht Experience at Madinat Jumeirah

Madinat Jumeirah and The ICON: An Invitation to Indulgence

Access to this exquisite experience is highly exclusive, reserved only for guests staying in the Malakiya Villas at Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, the boutique luxury villa resort reminiscent of exquisite Arabian-inspired summerhouses, or those in the Presidential or Royal suites at one of the resort’s four opulent hotels—Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, Jumeirah Al Naseem, Jumeirah Al Qasr, and Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf. Members of Jumeirah One also enjoy this privilege, adding an extra layer of exclusivity to the experience.

Read More: Uluwatu, Home To All-Villa Jumeirah Bali & Surfing

The ICON symbolises how luxury and sustainability can coexist beautifully, offering a glimpse into a future where indulgence does not come at the expense of the environment. ◼

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© This article was first published online in Apr 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Latest In Dubai: The ICON Yacht Experience at Madinat Jumeirah first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Mandarin Oriental, Canouan’s Exclusive Private Jet Transfer

Hidden in the tiny islands of St. Vincent and The Grenadines, the Mandarin Oriental, Canouan, is a beacon of luxury. The island, once envisioned as a haven for billionaires seeking solitude from the ‘millionaire’ crowds, shares its prestigious neighbourhood with Mustique Island. It’s a stone’s throw away from the Sandy Lane Yacht Club, a marina renowned for accommodating mega yachts, symbolizing the island’s blend of luxury and tranquillity.

The new inter-island transport service offers the ease and exclusivity of private jet travel without the hefty price tag of an exclusive charter. Accommodating up to six passengers, the Cessna Citation jet is all about comfort and style, ensuring the journey is as memorable as the destination.

Mandarin Oriental Canouan private transfer via Cessna Citation jet

Mandarin Oriental, Canouan’s Jet Set Villa Escape package, requires a minimum five-night stay, includes a VIP arrival and departure experience in both Barbados and Canouan airports, daily breakfast, a chef’s tasting menu with wine pairing at the Tides Bar + Grill, and a generous USD 1,000 resort credit. This package simplifies travel logistics and elevates the overall experience with thoughtful inclusions.

For those seeking the intimate and personalized experience of private jet travel, seats start from USD 1,500 per person for a roundtrip, inclusive of all taxes and fees. This also includes fast-track and airport lounge access at both destinations, adding comfort and exclusivity to the journey.

Canouan – a billionaire’s playground

Mandarin Oriental, Canouan, the brand’s first foray into the Caribbean, exudes a subtle yet unmistakable luxury. Perched on a hillside along the stunning Godahl Beach, it offers 26 all-suite accommodations and eight villas, marrying colonial elegance with contemporary style. The beachfront suites open directly onto the sand, while the ocean-view suites boast expansive terraces offering panoramic sea vistas.

Mandarin Oriental Canouan’s Godahl beach

The resort’s dining scene is a highlight, particularly the modern-atmospheric Turtles Lounge and Bar, which elegantly blends sophistication with the scenic beauty of Canouan. The Tides Bar + Grill, known for its traditional and inventive dishes with a Caribbean twist, offers an unforgettable culinary journey.

Read More: Antigua & Barbuda: A Superyacht Haven in the Caribbean

Canouan is an enclave of serenity and exclusive comfort. From its immaculate beaches to the championship 18-hole, Fazio-designed golf course and the luxury super-yacht marina, this Caribbean island getaway offers many activities designed to indulge and captivate the most discerning travellers. The essence of Canouan lies in its ability to blend the tranquillity of the Caribbean with unparalleled luxury, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking an exclusive retreat away from the bustling crowds, where elegance and serenity coexist in perfect harmony. ◼

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© This article was first published online in Mar 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Mandarin Oriental Canouan Introduces Private Jet Transfers to Caribbean Paradise first appeared on World Travel Magazine.