Author: Sam Allcock

The Alps are synonymous with outdoor adventure. Of the 30 million tourists who come each year, most arrive in the winter to ski down snow-covered peaks, but those in the know visit in the summer for fewer crowds and a pleasant climate. Discover the best ways to spend summer in the Alps, from exhilarating activities to treatments at sensational spas. You’ll find these peaks just as picturesque in July as in January. Stretching over 750 miles and spilling into eight countries, the Alps is one of Europe’s largest and highest mountain ranges. Each region has a different character with specific scenery…

Sweden has taken a bold step to protect its name from travel confusion, applying for an official trademark with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). The country, known for its scenic lakes, picturesque red cottages, and fika culture, hopes to stop the mix-ups caused by multiple locations around the world that share its name. The move comes after growing concerns about the number of places named “Sweden” internationally, which have led to travel blunders and confusion among tourists. The Swedish tourism board, Visit Sweden, is now calling on the public to support its application through an online petition. The…

A new chapter in Türkiye’s tourism and entertainment industry is set to begin on 15th January 2025, as The Land of Legends in Antalya prepares to open its doors to the country’s first-ever Nickelodeon Land and the first Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts in Türkiye. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the Turkish tourism sector, with the new development expected to attract families and adventure seekers from across the globe. The partnership between The Land of Legends and Paramount Global’s Nickelodeon brings the beloved brand’s colourful and action-packed worlds to life, creating a new hub of entertainment that combines thrilling…

Derby’s historic Cathedral Quarter Hotel has experienced a significant resurgence following its acquisition by new owners, Lavendish Leisure, in May. The Grade II-listed establishment, located on St Mary’s Gate, has witnessed a surge in guest bookings, with most weekends fully booked, marking a new chapter in the hotel’s storied history. Newly appointed operations manager Isuru Akalanka, who relocated from Sri Lanka for the role, has taken an immersive approach to running the hotel. Isuru has moved into the property himself to oversee day-to-day operations, a practice he believes allows him to understand the finer details of his surroundings. “I’m staying…

Bishop Auckland’s Christmas Town celebration, an event now widely celebrated in the North East, is returning in 2024 with an expanded programme set to enchant families and visitors alike. Running from Friday, 29 November, to Sunday, 8 December, this year’s Christmas Town will transform the town’s historic market square into a winter spectacle, complete with festive decorations, family attractions, and seasonal entertainment. The 10-day festival, organised by local groups Baccanalia and Bridge Creative, builds on the success of last year’s event, which drew visitors from across the region. This year promises an even more extensive experience, featuring returning favourites like…

Dubai’s real estate arm, Nakheel, a member of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has announced steady progress on the development of Palm Jebel Ali, one of the city’s ambitious waterfront projects. The initiative, which is part of a broader urban vision for Dubai, is moving forward with key 2025 milestones on track, according to the developer. Approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, the Palm Jebel Ali project was officially endorsed in May 2023 as part of a long-term plan to boost Dubai’s infrastructure. “Palm Jebel…

In a major step towards enhancing its reputation as a leading global hospitality destination, Marina Bay Sands has unveiled a new brand vision and completed an exclusive collection of luxury suites, marking a milestone in its ongoing $1.75 billion reinvestment programme. Known as the Paiza Collection, these suites cover the top floors across all three towers of the iconic Singapore hotel and are part of Marina Bay Sands’ ambition to redefine luxury hospitality. The unveiling took place during a press event at the Sands Theatre, attended by Marina Bay Sands’ Chief Operating Officer Paul Town, Chief Marketing Officer Irene Lin,…

As the 15th Gwangju Biennale enters its final month, art enthusiasts have until 1 December 2024 to experience one of Asia’s most prominent contemporary art events. This year’s biennale, which has drawn international attention to Gwangju, South Korea, offers visitors a chance to see some of the world’s most innovative works and enjoy the cultural legacy that defines the event. The main exhibition, titled PANSORI: A Soundscape of the 21st Century, is curated by Artistic Director Nicolas Bourriaud, a celebrated French theorist known for his concept of “relational aesthetics.” The exhibition takes inspiration from pansori, a traditional Korean performance art…

Hollywood stars Elsa Pataky and Chris Hemsworth have partnered with Experience Abu Dhabi to spotlight the city as a vibrant holiday destination. This two-year collaboration, launched with a campaign film, captures the couple’s excitement as they dream of a much-needed break, blending action with humour to showcase Abu Dhabi’s appeal. The campaign film follows the couple as they imagine their ideal escape, set against Abu Dhabi’s scenic backdrop, and emphasises the city’s diverse offerings. From serene beaches to thrilling desert dunes, the film captures how Abu Dhabi has something for every kind of traveller. Elsa Pataky, highlighting her family’s love…

Chuckanut Bay Distillery has revealed its newly refurbished ballroom event space in the heart of downtown Bellingham, Washington. After seven years of meticulous restoration, the historic venue offers a stunning setting for weddings, corporate functions, and private celebrations, with capacity for up to 320 guests. The ballroom combines rustic charm with refined elegance, using materials from the original structure to maintain its historic character. It features old growth timbers and repurposed steel, blending with warm copper accents that create a spacious, sunlit atmosphere. According to Matt Howell, co-owner of Chuckanut Bay Distillery, “Our ballroom is more than just an event…