Dubai sets new benchmark for Sustainable Tourism with prestigious hotel certification

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has awarded 70 hotels in Dubai with the ‘Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp’, a new sustainability initiative that seeks to recognise hotels with the highest level of adherence to DET’s 19 ‘Sustainability Requirements’. With Dubai taking the lead as the first city in the region to mandate sustainability criteria for its hotel classification system, the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp (DST) initiative further reinforces its drive to become a leading sustainable destination.

The initiative, launched last year in tandem with the UAE Year of Sustainability, which also saw Dubai hosting the milestone COP28 in Expo City Dubai, seeks to support hotels in the city to achieve their sustainability goals as they meet the highest standards of DET’s Sustainability Requirements. The comprehensive set of requirements that hotels need to implement include sustainable management approaches, performance metrics, energy, food and water management plans, guest education, employee training initiatives, creating sustainability committees within hotel establishments, and Corporate Social Responsibility programmes for local communities.

The recipients of this certification were honoured at an award ceremony hosted by DET at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, and attended by top hospitality executives as well as DET senior leadership. The awards were presented by His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, and Mr. Yousuf Lootah, Head of DET Environmental Sustainability & Social Responsibility Committee.

The DST Stamp validates the commitment of the 70 hotels to implementing sustainability practices and activities, further meeting the expectations of travel industry partners, and an increasingly environmentally conscious traveller base.

The stamp is awarded based on a three-tiered system of gold, silver, and bronze, related to the winner’s level of compliance achieved. This also reflects a thorough accreditation process overseen by a committee of senior industry professionals.

The initiative aims to accelerate the tourism sector’s efforts to support the UAE’s NetZero 2050 strategy, and aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to consolidate Dubai’s position as one of the top three global cities for business and leisure, and the best city to visit, live and work in.

Details of all 70 recipients are available on the Visit Dubai website here: https://www.dubaitourism.gov.ae/en/about-us/tourism-projects/dubai-sustainable-tourism-stamp.

Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing commented: “To position the city as a leading sustainable destination, and contributing to the UAE’s wider Net Zero goals, Dubai is taking a leading role in driving awareness, fostering education and ultimately creating and supporting opportunities to further advance responsible tourism practices. The awarding of the first Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamps is an important moment in our collective journey, and we congratulate and thank the participating and winning hotels for their efforts. Through the continued development of the

DST Stamp, as well as other current and future initiatives, we look forward to making Dubai the first choice destination for global travellers seeking the ultimate sustainable experience.”

With a one-year validity, the ‘Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp’ is the latest initiative in DET's sustainability strategy which has already seen the launch of the Carbon Calculator – a platform conceived to help stakeholders and partners identify cost saving opportunities and manage the transition to sustainable practices – and the Dubai Can initiative, which was launched in February 2022 with the ‘Refill for Life’ campaign promoting the use of reusable bottles and encouraging people to refill via 50 water fountains established throughout the city. A second Dubai Can project, the Dubai Reef, was launched in December 2023; one of the world's largest marine reef developments, Dubai Reef is part of the city’s efforts to increase fish stocks, support sustainable fishing and contribute to boosting food security. Dubai Reef project will also play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and increasing marine biodiversity.

Kogan Travel Shakes Up The Industry Saving Aussies $100s On Their Holidays

Kogan Travel throws down the gauntlet, undercutting the industry titans and offering Aussies some of the best value travel deals in the market

Kogan Travel is here, and in a move set to undercut some of travel’s biggest names, has secured best-in-market deals that holidaymakers won’t find anywhere else.

Just in time for winter getaways, the new deals aggregator exclusive to Kogan FIRST Members has scored discounts on average between 10% and 20% across domestic and international hotels, holiday packages, and activities compared to other leading online travel aggregators.

As Kogan continues to innovate and expand its offerings, Kogan FIRST emerges as the premier choice for savvy Aussies seeking unbeatable value. The potential for significant savings is extraordinary; in many cases, customers could save beyond their annual membership fee with a single booking via Kogan Travel. 

Standout launch deals include:

Kogan Travel spokesperson Ron Gelberg, says: “At Kogan.com providing remarkable value for our shoppers is our mission. Part of this is finding new and better ways to reward our most loyal customers, FIRST members. Kogan Travel is no different.

“Our intel showed us that Aussies weren’t always getting the best deals using the usual sites. Our platform has uncovered discounts that can’t be found anywhere else, giving members exclusive access to hundreds of dollars worth of savings on their holidays.

As it grows, we’ll be offering more and more destinations and deals, ensuring that Aussies journeying domestically or internationally can rely on Kogan Travel as their first stop before booking."

Kogan Travel is the latest service to join the Kogan family of essentials, which includes incredible value mobile plans, insurance and energy and tech deals.

For more information about Kogan Travel visit https://www.kogantravel.com/

HOLIDAY STAYCATION IN BANGKOK

Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention
Centre at CentralWorld

Dive into the holiday while enjoying a relaxing stay at our Bangkok . Experience the excitement of Songkran in the heart of the city with vibrant celebrations, delicious street food, and endless fun

Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld

Located amidst the bustling shopping and business district of Bangkok
BOOK NOW

Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok

One of the most intriguing cities of Asia, Bangkok is a place of glittering temples, a diverse cultural heritage, a majestic river and a myriad of dining and shopping opportunities. The city has an energy that makes everything possible 24 hours a day. Located on the northern side of Bangkok, Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok is within the Ladprao business district and moments away from Chatuchak Park. With the BTS Ha Yaek Ladphrao Station and MRT Underground Phahon Yothin Station close by, the hotel is one of the city’s timeless landmarks.

Centara Grand at Central Plaza
Ladprao Bangkok

Fully renovated and reopened in 2012, Centara Grand Ladprao features modern design and inviting vibes. As Thailand’s very first five-star hotel integrated with a shopping destination, the hotel has a reputation for attentive service, sublime dining and residential-style accommodations. The hotel is also connected to the Bangkok Convention Centre Hall and the Central Plaza shopping and lifestyle complex, offering all that is needed for guests staying in Bangkok on leisure or business.

Centara Grand Ladprao features extensive meetings and events facilities, spanning more than 10,000 square metres and complementing those of the adjacent 2,506-sqm Bangkok Convention Centre Hall. The latter can accommodate up to 3,800 persons in a cocktail-style configuration and is serviced by separate kitchens. The hotel’s elegant, pillarless Vibhavadee Ballroom can serve up to 2,000 persons for a reception, dazzling wedding party or product launch. There also is a collection of 17 fully-equipped suites and boardrooms.

CENTARA LIFE HOTEL BANGKOK PHRA NAKHON

Immerse yourself in the historical sights, sounds and scents of old Bangkok. All from a convenient and comfortable base at Centara Life Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon.

Centara Life Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon

Ideal for family or leisure travellers, the hotel is conveniently located near bustling Khaosan Road offering countless varieties of street-food and entertainment. The location is also close to the Chao Phraya express boat piers Phra Arthit and Maharaj offering easy access to the majestic Grand Palace, the famed Wat Pho Buddhist temple, National Museum and Pak Khong Talat flower market along with the nearby historic district's street food and family-run eateries.

BRISBANE POWERHOUSE LAUNCHES ‘ACCESS VERTIGO’ A WHEELCHAIR-ACCESSIBLE EXPERIENCE AT AUSTRALIA’S FIRST VERTICAL RESTAURANT

After a monumental launch last year, Brisbane Powerhouse has announced that Vertigo, a high-flying dining experience perched on the edge of the iconic building, is now accessible for wheelchair users.

Vertigo is Australia’s first vertical restaurant offering a unique dining and adrenaline experience 17 metres above the ground. Making Vertigo accessible to wheelchair users is the first stage of Access Vertigo – an initiative to make the experience more broadly accessible to many abilities.

Since the initial launch of Vertigo in October 2023, the team sought to make the experience accessible to wheelchair users and those with more complex mobility needs. A specialised team, including CEO of Sporting Wheelies and inclusion advocate Dane Cross, along with Occupational Therapist and wheelchair user Tim Lachlan, was assembled to conceptualise and construct a lightweight wheelchair tailored for elevating individuals for high-altitude adventures such as Vertigo.

Late last year four prototypes were completed, made from aircraft-grade aluminium, and were tested earlier this year by a team in the United States.

Access Vertigo Accessibility Advisor, Dane Cross said it is a testament to what can be achieved when cutting-edge design is combined with a strong commitment to inclusivity.

“Sporting Wheelies’ input into the project enabled us to impart our insight and lived experience of disability to open up a new realm of adventure dining for the community, including those with mobility impairments. It's a proud moment for us to see Access Vertigo not just redefine the parameters of accessible tourism, but also ensure that the excitement and joy of dining in the sky are shared by all,” Cross said.

Kate Gould CEO and Artistic Director of Brisbane Powerhouse said Vertigo’s creator John Sharpe had a vision for the experience to be the same for people with mobility issues and those without”.

“Achieving that vision has been a greater challenge than anticipated, requiring prototyping new wheelchair designs, and lifting techniques. To see wheelchairs finally raised up the wall of Brisbane Powerhouse is exhilarating,” said Gould.

Access Vertigo has been developed to accommodate various types of disabilities for those who use a wheelchair, such as spinal cord injuries, amputees, cerebral palsy, dwarfism, scoliosis, spina bifida, and stroke. A comprehensive outline of who can take part in an accessible sitting at Vertigo can be found on the Vertigo website.

Queensland Tourism Minister Michael Healy MP said Vertigo would take accessible tourism to a whole new level.

“Through the Year of Accessible Tourism grant program, the Queensland Government has helped industry to deliver more accessible tourism experiences,” Mr Healy said.

“Vertigo is a great example of a bold tourism initiative that will capture the interest of international and interstate visitors with diverse access needs.”

“This unforgettable culinary adventure will enable even more people to enjoy our great Queensland lifestyle from a different perspective,” Mr Healy said.

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Patricia O’Callaghan welcomed the announcement. “Our tourism industry continues to innovate and provide unique experiences for travellers and to see Vertigo open up access so even more people can enjoy it is a wonderful milestone for what is a truly novel experience.”

“We have really great momentum here in Queensland following the Year of Accessible Tourism which launched in 2023, but work continues into 2024 to grow our industry and ensure we deliver a world-class tourism experience for people of all abilities.”

Wheelchair sittings are limited to one wheelchair user per sitting and can be booked by contacting info@vertigobrisbane.com.au directly.

Vertigo’s three-course dinner menu with matched wine and Sunday brunch menu can be adapted to cater for most dietary requirements and costs $250 per person.

For more information and bookings, visit www.vertigobrisbane.com.au/access-vertigo.

Make an unforgettable visit to a turtle hatchery

Babies have a way with our hearts! They will steal yours when you stop over at the Kosgoda Hatcheries where you are bound to find them in all their loving shades of Leatherbacks, Hawksbills, Loggerheads, Green Turtles and the Olive Ridleys, the five species of turtles in the island. Kosgoda, located down south, is one beach in the island where all five species tend to make their nests.

This place is a dedicated turtle welfare centre which nurtures and cares for them from the onset until the little ones hatch and take to their home, the ocean.

Their task begins long before the babies are born. They watch over the nestling mother and once the eggs are laid these are transferred to the safe grounds of the hatchery. The day the babies are born, they are safely released to the waters. If any complications occur, they are tended to and released only when these babies are fit to begin their life journey in the vast ocean.

Sea turtles have become an endangered species all because natural resources are being exploited by human beings. This hatchery has passionately taken up the responsibility in protecting these harmless creatures who are a gentle part of our universal ecosystem supporting the survival of man and the planet.

It would touch your hearts once you drop in to see these lovable little ones at Kosgoda Hatcheries. You may even get the opportunity to release the babies to the ocean if you speak to the staff in there. It would surely fill your heart with emotion, remembering how the delicate babies you released off your hands, ran to the great ocean flapping with joy, like a child would, to their mother.

Sri Lanka Convention Bureau

 ✆ +94114 865050  ☏ +94112 472985
 slcb@srilanka.travel
 meetinsrilanka.com

Bar Lettera brings distinct blend of food, wine and art to North Sydney

North Sydney is set to welcome a new all-day dining hotspot to the local culinary landscape, with the opening of the stylish Bar Lettera inside Citadines Walker North Sydney on Saturday April 27.

The contemporary Italo-Australian restaurant and wine bar offers a unique all-day menu that blends European tradition and homegrown creativity within a tastefully curated space, giving a glimpse into North Sydney’s artistic soul. Bar Lettera is an experience that appeals to all the senses.

A member of The Ascott Limited’s leading portfolio of brands, Citadines (French for ‘City dwellers’) enables guests to experience the best elements of urban living, both within and outside their rooms. The new 90-seat venue strikes a harmony between restaurant and bar, complimenting the core brand promise of Citadines, which offers modern and flexible accommodation in both established and emerging metropolitan hubs.

Head Chef Ryan Perry’s approach to designing the menu involved tapping into the familiar comforts of traditional Italian cuisine, which he has reimagined using quality produce and Australian creative flair.

“Bar Lettera is all about embracing creativity. The team’s goal was to build a meeting place - somewhere relaxed to enjoy good times, great conversation, with food and wine that complements this,” said Managing Director of The Ascott Limited Australia, David Mansfield. “The opportunity was blending these elements to create a menu that appealed to a broad range of diners. Everyone is welcome at Bar Lettera.”

Area General Manager of The Ascott Limited Australia, Mark Robertson, said Bar Lettera is unique in North Sydney’s ascendant dining scene, in that it offers an unforgettable culinary experience combined with fine wines and artistic expression.

“We’re raising the bar for accessible dining and drinks in North Sydney,” said Mark. “You can choose share plates with cocktails, nourishing breakfasts, and small bites with fine wine. Bar Lettera offers something for everyone - you can come here to be inspired, to connect, and to share, savour and sip on a range of quality menu options.”

A curated cocktail selection awaits guests, whilst the wine list combines European favourites with vibrant homegrown drops – varietals all carefully selected to complement the diverse palette of flavours found on the menu.

Accessed from level 5 of Citadines Walker North Sydney, Bar Lettera will be available for bookings from April 27.

Something to share 

• Burrata, witlof, bottarga, pine nuts 
• Saison’s pork and pepperberry salami
• Bay bug Fritto Misto, house XO sauce

Something to savour 

• Mafaldine, roast mushrooms, chickpea, chestnut, ricotta salata
• Pork Cotoletta alla milanese, mustard
• Rigatoni, Wollemi duck ragu, Davidson plum gin

Something sweet 

• Milo Tiramisu, Mr. Black Coffee liqueur
• gelatoValrhona dark chocolate torta, hazelnut, raspberry
• Toasted almond set custard, blackberry, pistachi

RIDE THE MOUNT HOLLYWOOD LOOP IN GRIFFITH PARK

Silver Lake viewed from Mount Hollywood

Photo courtesy of Kansas Sebastian, Flickr

Difficulty: Easy / Medium
Length: 7.2 miles
Elevation gain: 614 ft.
Ride Type: Loop
Special Considerations: Some rough road and potholes

Starting and ending on N Vermont Canyon Road in front of the Greek Theatre and the Roosevelt Municipal Golf Course this loop circumnavigates the flanks of Mount Hollywood. There is plenty of parking around The Greek - unless there is a show, then there is none. Check the schedule during the busy summer season. The route can be approached from either direction. Either way there is plenty of steady climbing rewarded with long stretches of downhill or gentle coasting. Most of this route is closed to traffic though you may see the occasional park utility truck or ranger vehicle.

Starting near the Greek Theatre/Roosevelt Municipal Golf Course ride up N. Vermont Canyon Road into the park. After a few turns and a little climbing you’ll ride through a short tunnel. It’s fun! Keep to the right and ride through the series of gates that keep cars from accessing Mt. Hollywood Drive. This maintenance road is open only to infrequent shuttles (during the summer, on the weekends) and official vehicles. The rest of the traffic is cyclists, hikers, dog walkers, coyotes and equestrians. Climb the hill and sweat and enjoy the smell of wild sage. The views of Hollywood and the southern wilds of Griffith Park are incredible, especially at sunset.

This section of the ride is detailed in the OVER THE HILL route described in this guide. At the top of your climb, about halfway through the ride you will come to a "Y." Go right. Instead of running downhill you’ll wrap around the side of the park, gently descending as you come back to your starting point.This is Vista Del Valle Drive - although there are no signs telling you so. The grade shifts slightly downhill and so does the quality of the road. There is immediately more gravel and uneven surfaces so be careful and alert.

The views of North Hollywood, Burbank, Glendale and Universal City are expansive.

The road takes a nearly 90° turn to the right and is bisected by several trails. The uphill dirt path eventually leads to Mount Hollywood’s peak and the downhill trail to the left leads to Amir’s Garden, a hidden garden of local lore. All trails are officially off limits to bikes.

Vista Del Valle Drive hugs the sides of Mount Hollywood and the ride swoops back south. The riding is mostly level or at a easily manageable downhill grade at this point and you can focus on avoiding potholes and gravel patches.

The Griffith Park helipad signals the final stage of this loop. The helipad is one of the best views in all of L.A. - that is why you can often see a commercial or film shoot on the helipad. If you have the pad to yourself take a moment and enjoy the big flat surface and the perfect view of Downtown L.A.

After you’ve had your fill of the helipad continue the ride as it twists and turns to the end of Vista Del Valle at Commonwealth Canyon Drive and the Roosevelt Municipal Golf Course. To reach our starting point go right and ride the last half-mile to N. Vermont Canyon Avenue.
*by Joshua Johnson

NATURAL AYU SWEETFISH DISHES TO BOAST ABOUT!

"Kikunoya" 

Located near Kawahara Castle in Japan, "Kikunoya" is a renowned local restaurant where you can enjoy precious natural ayu (sweetfish) alongside seasonal ingredients. 

Within the premises flows a river, a feature dating back to its inception, and in the evenings, a gentle breeze from the water adds to the ambiance indoors. The restaurant boasts various private rooms, each with its distinct atmosphere, including one with river views and others adorned with Edo-era artifacts and kimonos. 

Their highlight is the Ayu course, showcasing dishes like simmered and salt-grilled ayu from Tottori's clear streams, along with tempura. During Ayu season, the banquet hall can host up to 30 guests, perfect for group dining experiences.

Kikunoya 

Address: 24 Kawahara, Kawahara-cho, Tottori City

Access: Approximately 10 minutes by bus from Kunifusa Station on the JR Inbi Line https://maps.app.goo.gl/WW5MdDHhb1LzEcLZ8

3 MONTHS TO GO UNTIL THE CURTAIN LIFTS ON MOAMA LIGHTS 2024

Moama Lights

An immersive experience not to be missed, Murray River Council’s award-winning Moama Lights will once again light up the Murray with incredible displays from 5 July, with tickets available to purchase now!

Set against the backdrop of Moama’s Horseshoe Lagoon, Moama Lights is a sound and light trail sharing stories from across the region through state-of-the-art installations, projections and cutting-edge moving light technology. Running over 4 weekends in July, the festival will see the return of the popular ice-skating experience and the American Hotel Beer Garden.

Created and produced by world-class design studio Mandylights, this year's theme ‘Enchanted Nights: A Celebration of Light’ honors the captivating beauty of Horseshoe Lagoon.

Inspired by Banjo Paterson's evocative poem "The Daylight is Dying," the show will capture elements of nature that come to life when the sun sets allowing the vibrant night-time ecosystem of the Lagoon to shine through. From illuminated ripples dancing on the water's surface to the projection of children's artworks onto the landscape, every element showcases tales of the bushland's mysteries.

The event will also see the return of spectacular indigenous artworks, crafted by the talented hands of First Nations artist Warrick Keen, and once again the brilliant Alkina Edwards, a contemporary Yorta Yorta artist from Echuca Moama.

Mayor Frank Crawley said this year’s event is not to be missed: “The 2024 event is another brand-new experience celebrating the wonders of nature through an ever-changing display of captivating colours, spectacular sound and amazing local art.”

“We’ve also got the other festival elements returning again this year, so we look forward to people enjoying the outdoor ice-skating rink, the American Hotel beer garden, food trucks and neon light installations all set up in the Kerrabee Soundshell area throughout the event period.”

Moama Lights

Those keen to get their skates on can do so from Saturday 29 June in Kerrabee Soundshell, just a stone’s throw away from the Moama Lights show.

After multiple sell out years, visitors are encouraged to get their tickets quick, available now at www.moamalights.com.au

The event is presented by Murray River Council and local sponsors Moama Bowling Club, Rich River Golf Club, Echuca Moama Accommodation Association and The Border Inn.

For more information:
Web: www.moamalights.com.au
Instagram: www.instagram.com/moamalights
Facebook: facebook.com/MoamaLights

Much loved historic Marble Bar in Hilton Sydney unveils big changes in 2024

Marble Bar at Hilton Sydney

Iconic 130-year-old Marble Bar at Hilton Sydney has celebrated its epic history as one of Sydney’s most enduring and celebrated bars by launching a new live music schedule six nights a week, unveiling a delectable new food and cocktail menu and now opening its doors to patrons seven nights a week.

Live music and Marble Bar are synonymous and many a patron wishes the walls would whisper with a plethora of music greats gracing the stage of the opulent basement bar over its long history. Liza Minelli, Cold Chisel, The Veronicas and Adam Lambert are just a scattering of names and today that legacy continues with a new line up of local and international acts Monday through Saturday nights.

Marble Bar’s new live music schedule:

• Monday (8pm – late): The Monday Jam featuring weekly rotating guest musicians.
• Tuesday (8pm – 11pm): Skivi & Zo (soul)
• Wednesday (8pm – 11pm): Soulphonics
• Thursday (8pm – 11pm): Larger than Lions (pop)
• Friday (7PM – late): DJ Trey (R&B), Brown Sugar Music (R&B)
• Saturday (7pm – late): DJ Pacheco (R&B)

Additionally, a new signature cocktail menu showcases ten signature cocktails honouring significant people and moments over the course of Marble Bar’s 130-year history – from beloved 1960s barmaid Doris and her gin based martini to the Four Sons Old Fashioned in honour of founder, George Adams, the youngest of four sons. “No alcohol” concoctions also take pride of place along with an extensive beer, wine and spirits list including a significant and considered whiskey offering.

Ther newly introduced Marble Hour runs from 4-6pm every Sunday to Wednesday offering patrons $20 signature cocktails and draught beers and house wines and spirits at $12.

The refreshed food menu offerings include small bites, sliders, artisan cheese and charcuterie boards, pizzas as well as selection of favourites like lobster rolls and quesadillas.

Since its establishment in 1893, Marble Bar has been a cherished watering hole and live music venue and today stands as one of Sydney’s only intimate and opulent live music establishments.

Marble Bar’s new opening hours:

• Monday - Wednesday 4pm to midnight
• Thursday - Saturday 4pm to midnight
• Sunday 4pm to 10pm

For more information, event schedules, and updates on Marble Bar, please visit Marble Bar Website or follow us at @marblebarsyd.