Tuesday 7 May 2024

Contemporary Public Art in Tokyo

Katsura Funakoshi, I fly above the city, 2022
Modern and contemporary artworks in public spaces are a feature of cities around the world, and Tokyo is no exception. This kind of public art is free for everyone to look at, and plays an important role in shaping the cultural identity of a place. It provides opportunities for artists to connect with local communities, and encourages discussion and reflection on various issues.

Modern and contemporary artworks in public spaces are a feature of cities around the world, and Tokyo is no exception. This kind of public art is free for everyone to look at, and plays an important role in shaping the cultural identity of a place. It provides opportunities for artists to connect with local communities, and encourages discussion and reflection on various issues. In Tokyo, you can walk around the striking artworks of the Marunouchi Street Gallery, or take a look at the permanent installations at Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, and Toranomon Hills Station.

Marunouchi Street Gallery

The Marunouchi Street Gallery is an outdoor art project where 19 modern and contemporary sculptures are displayed along and around the Marunouchi Nakadori Avenue. It’s easily accessible, just outside JR Tokyo Station (Marunouchi exits). First organized in 1972, the project celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022 as it aims to bring contemporary art to life and allow more people to encounter art in their everyday lives.

Some of the sculptures on display change every few years, and this is the 43rd edition. The current selection includes a work by Yayoi Kusama, featuring her signature pumpkin motif, as well as a bronze sheep piece by Henry Moore, and a work by Katsura Funakoshi, one of Japan's leading sculptors.

Tokyo Midtown Yaesu

On the other side of Tokyo Station, you’ll find a number of public artworks in and around Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, the shopping complex which had its grand opening in March 2023. Out in front of the Tokyo Midtown Yaesu entrance you can find “STAR” created by Tokujin Yoshioka. This permanent installation is around 10 meters high, and made of over 2,000 octagonal and mirrored stainless steel rods, which reflect the sunlight to create a luminous sculpture. It represents a beacon of hope.

©︎ Takashi Kuribayashi “Mountain range” 2022
Art Produce : TAK PROPERTY INC.
Outside, on the corner of Aogiri Street and Yanagi Dori Street, you’ll find “Mountain range” by Takashi Kuribayashi. His work often explores “boundaries,” and aims to reveal the “invisible world” where truth resides. This work uses the hanchiku (rammed earth) technique and soil collected from all over Japan to create strata, which reflect the layers of history and memory in Japan and Yaesu. The gray area in the center uses soil that the artist collected from 30 meters underground during the construction of Tokyo Midtown Yaesu. The cracked interior of the mountain is made of mirrors.

“Stripe drawing – Sunset reflection” by Nobuhiro Nakanishi is a work from 2022 which draws on Yaesu’s history as a waterside district criss-crossed by canals. Inspired by the evening sun reflecting on the water, it invites viewers to contemplate the flow of time.

Toranomon Hills Station

Inside the ticket gate on the second basement floor of Toranomon Hills Station on the Hibiya Line, you’ll find a large stained glass public artwork entitled “Our New World (Toranomon).” It was created by Asami Kiyokawa and unveiled in July 2023.

The work is made of stained glass with built-in LEDs, and measures approximately 2.7 meters in height and 6 meters in width. It uses a total of 3,351 pieces of glass of 243 types. Lens-shaped glass, which changes its appearance depending on the viewing angle, is layered on top of the stained glass to create a sense of three-dimensionality and movement.

Marunouchi Street Gallery

Address Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
URL Marunouchi Street Gallery

Tokyo Midtown Yaesu

Address 2-2-1 Yaesu, Chuo City, Tokyo
URL Tokyo Midtown Yaesu (JPN)

Toranomon Hills Station

Address 1-22-12 Toranomon, Minato City, Tokyo
URL Toranomon Hills Station

Amara Hotels & Resorts Unveils Progressive Redesign of Its Iconic Singapore Properties

Amara Sanctuary Sentosa
Amara Hotels & Resorts is delighted to announce a comprehensive brand redesign for its two flagship Singapore properties: Amara Singapore and Amara Sanctuary Sentosa. This ambitious reimagining, in response to the evolving preferences of today's discerning travellers, aims to deliver meaningful connections, memorable experiences, and tailored spaces. The revitalised approach will introduce an exciting new lifestyle concept to the hospitality landscape, emphasising contemporary elegance, sublime interiors, and sustainable travel as the defining elements that unite both properties.

"We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter for Amara Singapore and Amara Sanctuary Sentosa. This transformative journey marks a pivotal milestone for Amara Hotels & Resorts," shares Dawn Teo, Senior Vice President of Amara Hotels & Resorts. "Our redesigned spaces are meticulously crafted to resonate with the desires of today's travellers, offering a unique blend of sophistication, warmth, and joie de vivre that elevates our unparalleled hospitality experiences. We are privileged to collaborate with some of the industry's most creative minds, crafting dynamic and thoughtfully considered spaces that provide both relaxation and invigorating experiences for our guests."

For 38 years, Amara Singapore has stood as a heritage landmark in the heart of Tanjong Pagar. Commencing its phased renovation in October 2023, the property is set to unveil its final transformation by September 2024. In collaboration with renowned hospitality design firm Studio HBA, a division of Hirsch Bedner Associates, Amara Singapore has been re-envisioned as the vibrant social epicentre of the neighbourhood, resonating with the city's dynamic energy. The extensive refurbishment introduces an all-new Lobby Bar, evolving with the day's rhythm, and a reimagined Cafe Oriental, blending biophilic design with a modern twist on traditional hawker stalls. All 389 rooms at Amara Singapore, as well as facilities such as event venues, will also undergo sophisticated enhancements, radiating a refined ambience inspired by the terracotta roofs of the surrounding preserved shophouses and the heritage rubber fig tree found at the nearby Duxton Plain Park.

Amara Singapore, Lobby Bar
Meanwhile, the beachside oasis of Amara Sanctuary Sentosa is set to revitalise its suites, villas, and shared spaces, with completion slated for mid-2024. Working with architecture atelier FARM, this tranquil sanctuary—accentuated by contemporary design elements—invites guests to forge a deeper connection with the island's calming scenery and discover rejuvenation. The newly transformed spaces foster a harmonious dialogue between guests and nature, guided by a design philosophy centred on well-being and environmental stewardship, blending local elements with the serenity of the natural surroundings.

Amara Singapore and Amara Sanctuary Sentosa will unveil its new design in mid-2024, along with a series of new brand experiences by year-end.

The Incredible artwork on the Silos at Hay

Artwork at Hay silos (Photo: Facebook_
The town of Hay in New South Wales, Australia, is a small and unassuming place that has become famous for one incredible feature: the large-scale murals painted on its silos. These artworks depict scenes and figures of local significance, with a particular focus on Australia's involvement in World War II. The silos have been transformed into a canvas for some of the most stunning and thought-provoking public art in the country.

The silos in Hay were originally built in the mid-20th century to store wheat and other grains, and they remained in use for several decades. However, as the farming industry changed and modernized, the silos fell into disuse and were left to rust and decay. It wasn't until the early 2010s that the idea of transforming the silos into public art was first proposed.

The project began with a collaboration between a local artist, Heesco Khosnaran, and a community group known as the Hay Inc Rural Education Program. Together, they developed a plan to paint murals on the silos that would celebrate the town's history and culture, while also drawing attention to the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Artwork at Hay silos
(Photo:Facebook)
The first mural to be painted was completed in 2017 and depicted a group of Australian Light Horse soldiers riding through the desert during World War I. The mural was an instant success, attracting visitors from all over the country who were drawn to its scale and detail.

Encouraged by the success of the first mural, the project organizers began planning a series of additional murals that would continue the theme of Australia's military history. In 2018, they unveiled a new mural that depicted a group of Australian soldiers in action during the Battle of El Alamein, a crucial World War II battle in North Africa.

The mural is stunning in its scale and detail, with the soldiers depicted in vivid colors against a backdrop of desert and sky. The scene is both epic and intimate, capturing the bravery and sacrifice of these soldiers while also showing them as real people with families and fears.

Since then, several more murals have been added to the silos, each one depicting a different aspect of Australia's involvement in World War II. These murals include scenes of soldiers at the Kokoda Track, nurses tending to wounded soldiers, and pilots flying over the Pacific Ocean.

One of the most striking murals is a portrait of Nancy Wake, a woman who played a key role in the French Resistance during World War II. The mural shows Wake in her military uniform, her face set in a determined expression as she looks out at the viewer. The portrait is a tribute to Wake's courage and determination, and a reminder of the many women who played vital roles in the war effort.

Artwork at Hay silos
(Photo:Facebook)
The murals on the silos have become a major tourist attraction in the town of Hay, drawing visitors from all over Australia who come to see the stunning artworks and learn about the town's history. The project has also brought new life to the silos themselves, transforming them from symbols of decay and decline into vibrant and dynamic public spaces.

The murals on the silos are a testament to the power of public art to transform spaces and engage communities. They are a celebration of Australia's military history, and a tribute to the men and women who served their country with courage and honor. And they are a reminder that even the most unlikely places can become sources of inspiration and beauty, if we are willing to see them that way.

Everything Free at Vivid Sydney 2024 - Music

Tumbalong Park
Tumbalong Park, the heart of Vivid Sydney's Light Walk, transforms into Tumbalong Nights, a vibrant stage for contemporary music, echoing with sounds that celebrate our shared humanity. For 23 unforgettable nights, the park comes alive under the starlit sky, featuring a stellar line-up of international voices, local talent and DJs – all for free. Plus, special performances for kids light up the stage every Saturday at 5pm.

You can turn up any night of the festival and experience music that will move you or get organised and pop our highlights below in your diary now.

MALLRAT AND TIFFI (FRIDAY 24 MAY)

Get ready to kick off Tumbalong Nights in style and immerse yourself in a night of indie-pop and intimate lyricism from internationally adored Brisbane export Mallrat and the wry and dreamy sounds of Western Sydney’s tiffi.

JALBU MUNA (SATURDAY 25 MAY)

Join this powerful celebration of the stories and songs of First Nations women. This vibrant, all-women line-up bridges culture, Country and generations through a night of music, dance and First Nations traditions at Tumbalong Nights. This free night of music is curated by musician Deline Briscoe and features Christine Anu, Kee'ahn and many more.

CLUB BROADWAY + THE CARPENTERS FROM KEMPSEY (SATURDAY 1 JUNE)

This will be an unforgettable night of theatrics, singalongs and laughter as show-stopping musical theatre sensation Club Broadway sing you through top musical numbers with all the energy of a big night out. Don’t miss fabulous tribute band The Carpenters From Kempsey who’ll also grace the Tumbalong stage.

K-INDIE MUSIC FEST FEAT. SILICA GEL + SUNWOOJUNGA (FRIDAY 7 JUNE)

K-Indie Music Fest Feat. Silica Gel + Sunwoojunga
Immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of Korea's most exciting K-Indie acts, sunwoojunga and Silica Gel. This Australian exclusive performance is a unique opportunity to experience the depth and diversity of Korean music: a blend of folk, indie-pop and rock.


GRENTPEREZ AND FRIDAY* (SATURDAY 8 JUNE)

This promises to be a night of fresh sounds to elevate the Saturday night of your June long weekend. Enjoy the R&B and vintage bossa nova croon of 22-year-old Western Sydney sensation grentperez and the genre-bending groove of FRIDAY*.

3% PRESENTS 'KILL THE DEAD' ALBUM LAUNCH (FRIDAY 14 JUNE)

An extraordinary celebration of First Nations stories and sound, the innovative rap powerhouse 3% will take centre stage with a performance of its debut album KILL THE DEAD. See the whole album performed live, plus catch appearances from all the album’s guest contributors including Jess Mauboy, Tia Gostelow, Marlon Motlop, Stay True God and Denni.

BUDJERAH AND JEM CASSAR-DALEY (SATURDAY 15 JUNE)

Budjerah and Jem Cassar-Daley
Join pop sensation Budjerah and singer-songwriter Jem Cassar-Daley as they close Tumbalong Nights out with an evening of soul-stirring R&B pop and indie magic on 15 June. This is your opportunity to experience two of Australia's most compelling voices with a night of uplifting melodies and storytelling.

BESydney launches free event planning portal

Business Events Sydney (BESydney) has launched its new event planning portal to support event organisers to access tools, resources and funding to host their business event in Sydney.

The platform aims to support all stages of the event planning process,

Designed in consultation with event hosts and agents, the free portal aims to support all stages of the event planning process including researching, pitching, planning, budgeting and marketing.

BESydney CEO Lyn Lewis-Smith says the portal provides insights on event considerations including delivering a socially impactful event or checklists for inclusivity and accessibility.

“We are continuing our digital transformation journey to provide efficiencies and tailoring our service to specific customer needs with our new event planning portal,” she says.

“We want to support conference, meeting and event owners pitch, win, plan and promote business events in Sydney.”

Designed to support smaller events which may not have an events team, the planning portal is personalised by event sector with resources and content tailored to requirements.

It also provides access to the Sydney Meeting Fund which supports business events with offsets from $40 per person for events between 100-500 participants or delegates.

HALLELUJAH! SISTER ACT TICKETS ON SALE

Tickets for the eagerly anticipated Australian premiere of Sister Act are now on sale for the Sydney and Melbourne seasons of this joyous musical.

The eagerly anticipated production of the Broadway and UK hit musical comedy sensation direct from London will open at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney in August 2024 and the Regent Theatre in Melbourne from November 2024.

The creative team behind this most heavenly of musicals has also been unveiled and includes Alan Menken (Music), Glenn Slater (Lyrics), Cheri Steinkellner and Bill Steinkellner (Book), Douglas Carter Beane (Additional Book Material), Bill Buckhurst (Director), Alistair David (Choreographer), Morgan Large (Set & Costume Designer), Tim Mitchell (Lighting Designer), Tom Marshall (Sound Designer), Stephen Brooker (Musical Supervisor), Michael Josarian (Vocal And Incidental Music Arrangements), Doug Besterman & Mark Cumberland (Orchestrations), and Sam Cox For Samuel James Wigs (Wigs, Hair And Make Up Design).

Composer Alan Menken’s music, songs and scores have become an integral part of the fabric of our lives since his first works were produced nearly 40 years ago. His chart-topping songs have included Beauty and the Beast, A Whole New World, Colours of the Wind and Go the Distance. His stage musicals include God Bless You, Mr Rosewater, Atina: Evil Queen of the Galaxy, Real Life Funnies, Little Shop of Horrors, Kicks, The Dream on Royal Street, Beauty and the Beast, A Christmas Carol, Weird Romance, King David, The Little Mermaid, Sister Act, Leap of Faith, Newsies, Aladdin, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz, A Bronx Tale and Hercules.

Song and score credits for film musicals include: The Little Mermaid (animated), Beauty and the Beast (animated), Newsies, Aladdin (animated), The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Hercules, The Shaggy Dog, Home on the Range, Enchanted, Tangled, Mirror Mirror, Beauty and the Beast (live action), Howard, Aladdin (live action), Disenchanted (live action), The Little Mermaid (live action).

He is the winner of eight Oscars, with four for Best Score and four for Best Song and holds the distinction of having won more Academy Awards than any other living individual. Other notable awards include 11 Grammy Awards, seven Golden Globes, a Daytime Emmy Award, a Tony for Best Original Musical Score (Newsies), an Olivier Award, three Outer Critics Circle Awards and two Drama Desk Awards. His 2021 Emmy win elevated him to EGOT status, as the 16th person ever to receive an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony award.

Sister Act lyricist Glenn Slater is one of his generation’s most celebrated lyricists, and an omnipresent fixture in theatre, film and television for over two decades. With his frequent collaborator, legendary composer Alan Menken, Slater has written the songs for four Broadway shows — Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Grammy winner, Tony nominee), Sister Act (Tony nominee), Leap of Faith and A Bronx Tale. With equally legendary composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, Slater penned the lyrics for the international juggernaut School of Rock (Tony and Olivier nominee), and both book and lyrics for Love Never Dies, the long-awaited sequel to Phantom of the Opera.

For the big screen, Glenn co-created Disney’s instant-classic Tangled (Grammy winner, Oscar and Golden Globe nominee), as well as films as varied as Disney’s animated Western Home On The Range, the R-rated global smash Sausage Party, and the pop-driven Uglydolls.

Slater’s songs have been recorded by an array of artists–from Broadway luminaries like Donna Murphy,

Raul Esparza and Sierra Boggess, to Nashville giants Tim McGraw, kd Lang, and Bonnie Raitt and contemporary pop stars including Kelly Clarkson, Janelle Monae and Nick Jonas.

Sister Act director Bill Buckhurst’s theatre directing credits for Tooting Arts Club include: Sweeney Todd (West End, Harrington’s Pie and Mash Shop & Off-Broadway; Best Musical Off-West End Awards, Outstanding Revival of a Musical Lucille Lortel Awards, Best Musical Revival Off-Broadway Alliance, Best Off-Broadway Musical Theater Fans’ Choice Awards, Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Director of a Musical), Barbarians, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Tinderbox.

His directing credits for Shakespeare’s Globe include: Omeros, Hamlet (& International Tour), King Lear (& International Tour), Twelfth Night, Othello, The Merchant of Venice, Romeo & Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Macbeth (Playing Shakespeare).

Sister Act choreographer Alistair David’s theatre credits include The Addams Family (Theatre Royal, Nottingham, UK tour); Malory Towers (Wise Children); Rough Crossing (Theatre Royal Windsor and UK tour); Ghost the Musical (UK tour, Dubai, Moscow and Paris); Curtains (UK tour); The Producers (Manchester Royal Exchange); Me and My Girl, Fiddler on the Roof (Chichester); Beauty and the Beast, Sweet Charity (Nottingham Playhouse); Oklahoma!, Kiss Me, Kate (BBC Proms Royal Albert Hall); Dance of the Vampires, The Book of Mormon (Det Ny Teater, Denmark); The Two Noble Kinsmen (RSC); Some Like It Hotter (UK tour); Show Boat (New London Theatre/Sheffield Crucible); My Fair Lady, Anything Goes (and UK tour), The Way of the World, Annie Get Your Gun, Bull (and Brits Off Broadway), Oliver! (Sheffield Crucible); Only the Brave (Wales Millennium Centre); Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, The Sound of Music (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre); My Fair Lady (Aarhus Teater, Denmark); Tipping the Velvet (Lyric Hammersmith); A Man of No Importance (Salisbury Playhouse); Paper Dolls (Tricycle) and 42nd Street Gala (London Palladium). Alistair also directed and choreographed Robbie Williams’ worldwide concert tour Swings Both Ways.

Based on the iconic film starring Whoopi Goldberg and featuring original music and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, Sister Act is a heavenly musical that is joyous and uplifting in equal measures.

Disco diva Deloris’ life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Placed under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she shouldn’t be found – a convent! Encouraged to help the struggling choir, she helps her fellow sisters find their true voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

A musical sent from above, Sister Act is the brilliant, must-see show which raises the spirits and warms the soul time after time. Nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, as well as a total of six Olivier Award nominations across the original West End season and the London revival season. Sister Act will be returning to London’s West End from March 2024.

Experts outline a promising future for the GCC hospitality sector, as the UAE market is forecasted to exceed US$7 billion by 2026

Recent data from global research companies indicates a bright future for the GCC hospitality industry, with insights from Deloitte and STR demonstrating sustained growth as tourism continues to be a key priority for regional governments. The upcoming edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), a premier global event in travel and tourism, will serve as a pivotal gathering for hospitality stakeholders when it takes place from 6 to 9 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

According to Deloitte, Dubai is leading the regional hospitality markets with a strong outlook for 2024. The city now offers more hotel rooms than major capitals such as London, New York City and Bangkok, and as of this month, Dubai has a hotel room capacity of over 150,000.

Data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) shows that the city welcomed 17.15 million overnight visitors during 2023, with the average length of stay also increasing. According to Deloitte, occupancy peaked at 88% in February.

Elsewhere in the region, STR figures show that Riyadh is leading the way in terms of hotel supply growth, offering an additional 28,465 rooms, a 134% increase. Meanwhile,

Doha has doubled its hotel inventory over the past decade, with a current supply of 39,968 rooms.

“As the hospitality landscape in the GCC region continues to evolve, the data paints a compelling picture of growth and opportunity. ATM 2024 will feature a wide range of hospitality brands from around the world, and we are pleased to report that there has been a 21% increase in exhibition space dedicated to hotel brands this year, demonstrating strong interest and demand,” said Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market.

Curtis added: “IHG Resorts is the official hotel partner for ATM 2024, and this year's edition is set to welcome back some of the most respected brands in the hospitality industry, including Four Seasons Hotels, Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, and the Shangri-La Group. It's worth noting that the number of hospitality brands showcased at ATM has increased by 12% with a good selection of well-known international and regional brands. With so many world-class brands in attendance across all categories of luxury, upper-midscale and midscale, ATM 2024 promises an enriching experience for all attending.”

Several new European hotel brands, including Ethno Belek in Turkey and Buff Medical Resort in Germany, will exhibit at ATM for the first time. European Voyages, which specialises in tours, transfers, and private jets, will also mark its debut appearance. There has been a notable surge in exhibitor participation from Italy and Turkey, reflecting a growing interest from these regions in reaching the lucrative Middle East tourism market.

Attendees at ATM 2024 will learn the latest trends from hospitality industry leaders during a series of summits and panel discussions throughout the course of the week. These include the ‘'Frameworks for Tourism Investment' session, which will mark the beginning of the highly-anticipated ATM Market Insights Summit.

Presented by Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East and Africa, Hilton; Basmah Al-Mayman, Regional Director Middle East, UNWTO; and Jan Gerrit Koechling, Partner Dubai, UAE of Roland Berger, this session will take place on the event’s main stage, the Global Stage. Attendees can expect to gain invaluable insights on how to cater to new markets, maintain market share and identify new business opportunities.

Elsewhere, the 'Trends Shaping the Future of Hospitality in the Middle East' session will officially open ATM’s new ‘Future Stage’, formerly the Travel Tech Stage. Providing key updates on the hospitality industry, upcoming trends and current challenges facing the sector, the session will feature senior regional representatives from IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriot International, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Rotana Hotel Management

Corporation PJSC and Banyan Tree Dubai along with hospitality experts from Mastercard and Silkhaus.

“As the Middle East continues its impressive strides forward in the global tourism landscape, IHG Hotels & Resorts is honoured and proud to be a strategic partner to multiple governments, tourism investors, industry stakeholders, and our customers across the region. As the official Hotel Partner of the Arabian Travel Market 2024, we look forward to engaging with industry leaders, peers and colleagues. ATM remains an unrivalled platform for dialogue, debate, networking, and knowledge-sharing as the regional industry’s legacy travel trade event,” said Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG.

The 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) will focus on the theme: Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship. This year’s event will feature a wide portfolio of exhibitors from the fields of aviation, accommodation, hospitality, attractions, technology and more, ATM 2024 will explore how innovators in the travel and tourism space are working to attract greater levels of funding to further increase the sector’s overall contribution to global GDP.

Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024’s strategic partners include the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner, Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner. STA is the Global Travel Partner for ATM 2024.

The latest ATM news stories are available at https://hub.wtm.com/category/press/atm-press-releases/.

To register your interest in attending ATM 2024 or to submit a stand enquiry, visit https://www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb/enquire.html.

Monday 6 May 2024

Niro Tours Sri Lanka for a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience

Niro Tours Sri Lanka
Niro Tours Sri Lanka is a travel company that offers a range of services to help you explore the beauty and charm of Sri Lanka. Here are some of the services they offer:

1. Tour Packages: Niro Tours offers a variety of tour packages that cater to different interests and budgets. From cultural heritage tours to wildlife adventures, beach getaways, and hill country explorations, they have something for everyone.

2. Transportation: Niro Tours provides comfortable and reliable transportation services, including airport transfers, city tours, and long-distance travel.

3. Accommodation: They offer a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels, to suit every taste and budget.

4. Tour Guides: Niro Tours' experienced and knowledgeable tour guides will help you discover the hidden gems of Sri Lanka, sharing their insights into the country's history, culture, and natural beauty.

5. Activities: From elephant safaris to surfing lessons, Niro Tours can arrange a range of activities to make your trip even more memorable.

6. Ticketing and Reservations: They can help with ticketing and reservations for flights, trains, and attractions, making your travel planning a breeze.

Niro Tours Sri Lanka
7. Travel Services: Niro Tours also offers additional travel services, such as visa assistance, travel insurance, and foreign exchange.

By choosing Niro Tours Sri Lanka, you can enjoy a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience in this beautiful island nation.

Niro Tours Sri Lanka

Phone: +940779036553
Address: 167/c adiambalama road kibulapitiya negombo

Get Away Guide: Aussie Cities

YHA Brisbane
Whether you're exploring Australia for the first time or a local looking for new experiences, a stay in the city promises an unforgettable time.
  • Discover Brisbane's vibrant culture along the Brisbane River and stunning city skyline.
  • Explore Melbourne with its laneway cafes, world-class dining, and renowned arts scene.
  • Experience Adelaide’s vibrant markets, exciting festivals and world-class sports events.
  • Tick off Sydney and its iconic landmarks, bustling streets and beautiful beaches.

Stay in the city

Stay 3 days (or more) at the below properties and save 20% on your booking*. To redeem discount, sign up or log into your MyYHA account and select 'Stay 3 Save 20% Midweek' when booking.

YHA Brisbane City

rooftop bar & pool • social vibes • cafe • unbeatable location & views
Book now
"Excellent, clean, friendly, professional, social, fun, authentic, culturally diverse. These are only some of the many words I find so easy to describe a great hostel to stay at. I always stay here and have enjoyed it for years."
YHA Brisbane City | Neil (Dec 2023)

YHA Melbourne Central

close to top attractions • cafe & bar •
rooftop city views • BBQ area
Book now
"Stayed in the top floor private room; great room and great roof top chill area. Breakfast was great as was the eating area! Great atmosphere around hostel. Plenty of lockers to store bags when out of the day "
YHA Melbourne Central | Johno (Mar 2024)

YHA Adelaide Central

short stroll to city attractions •
spacious social areas • games room
Book now
"Friendly stuff, hassle free check in and check out. Everything was neat and clean, free BBQ on Wednesday was great. Making friends with people from 6 different countries and hanging out like we've known each other for a long time was pretty cool too"
YHA Adelaide Central | Kazi (Feb 2024)

YHA Sydney Central

YHA Sydney
easy access to public transport • pool • cinema room • basement bar
Book now
"It was a great and clean environment. The staff were amazing and helpful. The kitchen is well organized and spacious with all the utensils that you need!"
YHA Sydney Central | Agustina (Mar 2024)

Discover the city

Budget Brisbane: Exploring Queensland's capital for less  
Discover Sydney's Northern Beaches

*Valid for online bookings | Sunday-Friday nights | Offer non-refundable | No cancellations accepted.
YHA Adelaide Central & YHA Melbourne Central valid to 31st August 2024.
YHA Brisbane City & YHA Sydney Central valid to 30th September 2024.

PALM COVE TOPS LIST OF ‘BEST BEACHES IN THE WORLD’

Palm Cove
Described as the ‘epitome of a tropical paradise’ Tropical North Queensland’s Palm Cove has been crowned best beach in the world by Conde Nast Traveller magazine.

Palm Cove is named as the first beach in a list of 34 from across the world that name sandy locales beyond the destinations visited by gaggles of tourists. The prestigious magazine describes Palm Cove’s synonymous palm trees on powdery sand and the often-uncrowded stretches of white sandy beach as the key reasons for being included at the top of the list.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mark Olsen said Palm Cove had long been a favourite beach destination for Australian travellers wanting an idyllic tropical getaway.

“The Conde Nast Traveller selection of Palm Cove as the first in this curated list will bring international travellers to its coconut palm-fringed shore to dine in beachfront restaurants and cafes and relax at stunning resorts,” he said.

“With its rainforest mountain backdrop and ancient melaleucas shading the pathways, Palm Cove is a unique paradise that invites relaxation.”

Tourism Palm Cove President Matthew Cork said the Palm Cove community was delighted to discover their hidden gem had been listed as number one beach in the world, surpassing some truly remarkable places.

“This serene and sophisticated haven has rightfully earned its place in the spotlight and we couldn’t be more proud to call it home,” he said.

“Palm Cove is a place that truly embodies something special, something unique that captures the hearts of everyone who visits.

“With The Reef House winning multiple awards including Queensland’s Best 5-star Hotel for the past two years, the Surf Club celebrating 100 years this year, and the recent nomination of Palm Cove by Cairns Regional Council for the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Small Tourism Town awards, we are proud to showcase our beautiful beach to the world.

“It is a place that inspires us all to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us and to cherish the memories we create here.”
For more information go to cairnsgreatbarrierreef.com