Author: Sam Allcock

A new photography exhibition by renowned Chinese artist Yin Chao is captivating visitors at the China Cultural Center in Paris. Titled Wandering Eyes, the showcase runs from 16 November to 7 December 2024 and offers a unique exploration of Chinese culture through a contemporary lens. Organised by the creative visual agency Super Studio, the exhibition marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between China and France. It celebrates Sino-French cultural exchange while presenting Yin Chao’s photographic interpretations of Chinese heritage to French audiences. A Fresh Perspective on Chinese Storytelling Yin Chao, recognised as one of China’s leading photographers, is celebrated for…

The latest FDI Tourism Investment Report 2024, published by the Financial Times in partnership with UN Tourism and Diriyah Gate Company, highlights a robust recovery in global tourism investment. The report underscores the sector’s growth since the pandemic, with a significant emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Between 2019 and 2023, the tourism industry recorded 1,943 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects, amassing $106.7 billion in capital and creating approximately 259,800 jobs, according to data from fDi Markets. While overall investment levels remain below pre-pandemic peaks, 2023 saw international tourism receipts rise by 3% above 2019’s record high, signalling a positive trajectory.…

Zero Latency VR, known for its cutting-edge virtual reality experiences, has announced a festive twist to its popular zombie survival game, Outbreak. The seasonal update, titled Slay Season, will be available globally from 4 December to 5 January, adding a unique holiday flavour to the high-stakes action. In Slay Season, players will navigate snow-covered battlefields while combating zombies decked out in Santa hats and other holiday-themed attire. The game features a mix of festive humour and thrilling gameplay, making it an ideal outing for families and friends seeking a memorable holiday activity. A Festive Take on Survival Horror The update…

DAMAC Properties, one of the UAE’s premier property developers, has unveiled its latest and largest master development of the year, DAMAC Islands. Located in Dubailand, this tropical-inspired community aims to offer residents a blend of luxury living and the tranquillity of island life. The launch, held on 19 November at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena, was attended by the company’s Founder and Chairman, Hussain Sajwani, alongside Managing Director Amira Sajwani and senior executives. The event featured global celebrities, including Bollywood icons Amitabh Bachchan, Ranveer Singh, and Sara Ali Khan, as well as former professional footballer John Terry and two-time boxing champion Amir…

Loughborough University’s Burleigh Court Conference Centre and Hotel has officially completed a major refurbishment, ushering in a new era for the venue. The project, led by design agency Harrison, has transformed five key areas of the venue, blending the university’s rich academic heritage with modern hospitality. The refurbishment, which began in January 2024 and finished in Autumn 2024, has revitalised Burleigh Court into a dynamic space that reflects both the academic culture of Loughborough University and its ongoing innovations. A key feature of the redesign is the creation of a new dining space, Fifty The Street, which was constructed under…

As Christmas approaches, many Brits are finding themselves disillusioned with the commercialisation of the holiday season. According to recent polls, 87% of people feel Christmas has become too commercialised, with the holiday increasingly associated with stress and pressure. Amid this growing sentiment, more people are turning to a more contemplative and peaceful way to spend the festive period: staying in a monastery or guesthouse run by religious orders. The holiday season now seems to start earlier each year. Christmas goods are spotted on supermarket shelves as early as September, and festive adverts air before Halloween. Travel expert Lily Smith from…

Keturah, the innovative luxury wellbeing real estate and hospitality concept, has marked a significant milestone in the development of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Dubai, Creekside, with key construction phases now complete. Shoring, piling, excavation, and infrastructure works have been finished, with the project’s main contractor, CECEP Techand Middle East, now officially moving ahead with construction. The AED 2.8 billion project is scheduled for completion by the fourth quarter of 2027. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, located within the Keturah Resort, is set to become the first fully wellness-certified resort in the MENA region. The project will feature 200 luxurious residences spread across seven…

Jamaica’s award-winning S Hotel Montego Bay has clinched two prestigious accolades in a remarkable show of recognition for its luxury offerings and exceptional service. Recently named the Top Seaside Hotel in North America (USA, Canada, & Mexico) for 2025 by Conde Nast Johansens, the hotel was also listed as one of The World’s Best 25 Boutique Hotels for 2024/2025 by Hotels Above Par. The prestigious Conde Nast Johansens award, a highly regarded accolade celebrating exceptional hotels worldwide, was presented at a gala ceremony during the World Travel Market in London. Recognised for its unparalleled location overlooking the renowned Doctors Cave…

A new government-backed taskforce aimed at improving air travel for disabled passengers has been announced by the Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, during a visit to Manchester Airport. The Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group, led by Paralympian Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, will focus on making flying a safer, more accessible, and dignified experience for all. The group will bring together industry leaders, disability advocates, and campaigners, including presenter Sophie Morgan, a prominent figure in the fight for disability rights in aviation. Morgan’s recent documentary Fight to Fly highlighted the challenges faced by disabled passengers, from damaged wheelchairs to poor service and…

Peacock Bazaar, the emerging fragrance and beauty eCommerce retailer, has launched its first-ever out-of-home (OOH) marketing campaign featuring Shaneela Rowah Al-Qamar, a well-known brand representative for luxury fragrance brands. In just its first year, Peacock Bazaar has swiftly established itself in the UK’s fragrance market, offering a diverse selection of popular fragrance brands at competitive prices. Now, the retailer is stepping up its marketing game with a bold new campaign aimed at attracting London’s West End shoppers. The campaign, which begins the week of 18th November 2024, will be showcased across 45 bus stops in key locations such as Oxford…