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Have you got plans for the big V-Day? Here's a pro tip (not really. Writer is painfully single): Book whatever you're planning early. Planning a romantic dinner? Book it now. Planning a staycation in KL? Book it now. Planning a spa session? You guessed it. Book it now. Now that you know that advance booking is crucial, allow Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur to give you the rundown of what they are offering this Valentine's Day. Welcome to the ultimate destination for love, whether to woo that special someone or sweep them off their feet all over again… Love Among the Stars at Privé, Level 65 Exclusively for Four Seasons Private Residents, Privé, Level 65 elevates Valentine’s Day in every possible way. Soaring high at 1150 feet above the heart of Kuala Lumpur, this private venue will host a panoramic dinner on February 14. As the glittering skyline sweeps across the horizon, reigniting romance, fragrant candles and flower petals infuse the air with desire. The inventive menu, paired with fine wines, reflects the 6S theme – Spicy, Smoky, Sour, Savoury, Sexy and Sweet. Diners can sample tantalizing creations such as Royal Oyster Tartare, Velvoute of Sea Urchin and Frozen Avocado Sorbet, along with an array of delicacies like sea grapes and Beluga caviar. The evening concludes with a surprise gift, crafted by Tiffany & Co. Evoking Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, Four Seasons epicurean celebration in the clouds takes date night to a whole new level. February 14, 6 PM to 10.30 PM; MYR 5,000 nett per couple Love Blossoms at Yun House Couples can share a signature love feast in the glamorous, seductive setting of Yun House. Symbolizing the essence of this special day, the menu incorporates classic Valentine’s traditions as well as ancient Chinese myths, reimagined onto the plate by Chef Jimmy and his team. Sample distinctive creations such as Love Triangle (Alaskan Crab Legs with Foie Gras, Truffle and Peking Duck), Love Bird (Bird’s Nest and Scallop in Golden Broth) and Meant to Be (Crispy Noodles with Boston Lobster and Asparagus). February 14, available for lunch and dinner; MYR 1,314 nett per couple (with champagne), MYR 1,040 nett per couple (without champagne) Dine Under the Sky at the Pool Bar & Grill Savour an al-fresco dinner under the stars, with magnificent cityscapes and a special menu crafted by Chef De Cuisine Varinder Patial. Begin with a bottle of wine or crafted cocktails, followed by an aphrodisiacal adventure that sets romance ablaze. Each dish features tantalizing ingredients such as American oysters, T’Lur caviar, Alaskan crab, Champagne Espuma, truffles and strawberries. The private cabana is perfect for snuggles and stargazing, caressed by cool breezes. February 14, 7 PM to 10.30 PM; four-course set menu at the dining table at MYR 588 nett per couple (includes a bottle of wine); 5-course set menu at a private cabana at MYR 888 nett per couple (includes a welcome cocktail/mocktail) Dine Your Heart Out at Curate Keep that precious romantic spark alive with an extravagant selection of specialties from around the world, accompanied by bubbly – Champagne or sparkling grape juice. Glimmering candles and fresh blossoms light up the table, with designer pralines adding a touch of delight. Couples can spice up their night with “Love Marked” dishes, such as Rockefeller oysters, heart-shaped pizzas and chocolate-wrapped strawberries. Four Seasons chefs sauté, stir-fry and flambé through the evening, serving up fresh-off-the-flame deliciousness, while Chef Mak’s NICE CREAM tickles the taste buds – a multisensory experience that puts a fresh spin on the world’s most-loved dessert. Plumed by delicate smoke, this live-action version of ice-cream is made with a dash of liquid nitrogen, resulting in a bowl of smooth, creamy goodness. The lively, interactive ambience of Curate makes it ideal for couples as well as families. February 14, 6 PM to 10.30 PM; MYR 500 nett per couple, including one glass of bubbly per person Valentine’s at The Lounge On this magical evening at The Lounge, fall in love over a four- or five-course signature menu, starring a superb main course of choice. The creative culinary team combines international flavours and local inspiration to present a richly layered romantic feast. Lovers can savour delicate ingredients together, such as Boston lobster, T’Lur caviar, Foie Gras and Alaskan crab. The journey concludes with a selection of gorgeous desserts. February 14, 7 PM to 10.30 PM; 4-course set menu at MYR 488 nett per couple, 5-course set menu at MYR 688 nett per couple (add MYR 200 for a bottle of wine) ‘Celebrate Love’ at The Spa The perfect treat for couples who want to nurture their togetherness. A 90-minute full body massage transports both guests into a realm of blissful relaxation, while a 30-minute rejuvenating facial leaves them newly radiant, revealing the most beautiful ornament of all – the glow of love. Delectable pralines and bouquets of fresh petals further sweeten the celebration, and a bottle of bubbly sets a sparkling tone for the rest of the day. February 14-16; MYR 1,588 nett per couple Staycation at Four Seasons Why not escape into a bubble of bliss this Valentine’s Day weekend? At Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, each couple takes centre stage: from waking up in a beautifully appointed room, to savouring a romantic dinner for two with Champagne. Lovebirds can spend their time luxuriating at the Spa and lounging by the poolside, or exploring the vibrant surrounds of the Hotel. Later, head to Bar Trigona for Champagne cocktails, infused with Sloe gin to lend a rosy touch. Raise a glass to romance, with the after-dark glitter of Kuala Lumpur forming an alluring backdrop. The Valentine’s Day Staycation weekend includes: overnight accommodation in a luxuriously appointed room, daily breakfast for two at Curate and romantic dinner on Valentine’s Day for two at Curate including a glass of Champagne, parking for one car, and lots more. To book, please email or call the Hotel’s Reservations Team at kua_reservations@fourseasons.com or 03-2382-8788. To book dining or spa experiences, please call +603 2382 8888 or chat with us on WhatsApp or through the Four Seasons App.

Four Seasons KL Valentine's Day 2020

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Passengers who travelled to Japan on 30 Jan 2020 were the first to experience the Single Token Journey concept at KL International Airport. The Single Token Journey concept uses facial recognition technology that provides travellers with one single identification verification that can use at the entire airport's touchpoints from check-in to the boarding gate. This initiative is part of the Airports 4.0 initiative that aims to transform Kuala Lumpur into a smart airport with the use of big date analytics. The concept is being piloted for three months in collaboration with Malaysia Airlines together with air transport specialist in communications and information technology, SITA. According to Sumesh Patel, SITA president Asia Pacific said, "With SITA Smart Path, your face becomes your boarding pass and passport." Travellers onboard two daily Malaysia Airlines flights to Narita International Airport Tokyo and Kansai International Airport Osaka will get to test the technology during the trial period. Facial recognition scanners were placed at selected check-in counters and e-gates were placed at the security screening touchpoints and at the boarding gates in preparation of the trial period. Travellers on the aforementioned flights only needs to scan their faces to verify their token at all touchpoints from check-in to boarding. No longer will their passport or boarding passes be needed when going through the checkpoints thus speeding up the process. The test and trial period hope to see a seamless process as all data is disseminated to all relevant parties such as the airlines, immigration and customs. Acting group CEO of Malaysia Airports, Mohd Shukrie Mohd Salleh said the single token journey concept was a testament to the organisation’s “continuous commitment in improving services” at the airports. "Our main focus in moving forward is to strengthen Malaysia’s position as an aviation hub. We will ensure that services at our airports are at par with other mega hubs around the world.” Of course, it remains to be seen how heavy makeup wearers and those who have undergone facial surgery will be impacted by this new system.

"Your Face Your Passport" with SITA’s Smart Path technology now testing at KLIA

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Street art-lovers visiting the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico will be in for a treat, as muralists from all around the world are creating works that will enhance the local art scene of the island. In 2019, Discover Puerto Rico put out a call inviting muralists worldwide to come and contribute to the island's vibrant street art scene. International artists Maya Hayuk and the 1UP Collective answered that call, and are currently working on murals on the island as part of the “Blank Canvas Initiative.” Hayuk, a contemporary Ukrainian - American artist, is best known for her large-scale mural paintings, and her work includes The Bowery Wall in New York and the Millennium Iconoclast Museum of Art in Brussels. Berlin -based 1UP is an anonymous collective of men and women from cities all over Europe. Renowned for their worldwide graffiti activity, they have been called upon by music festivals and global fashion brands. They, and Hayuk, are joining Puerto Rican artists, Alexis Bousquet, Celso González, Vero Rivera and Bob Snow, who identified walls throughout the island to serve as larger-than-life blank canvases. The murals were completed during the island's Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián festival, which is an emblematic annual event featuring parades of costumed figures, music, dancing and food, as well as authentic crafts made by local artisans. “The response we received from this initiative was standout," says Brad Dean, CEO of Discover Puerto Rico. "We welcome Maya Hayuk and the 1UP Collective with open arms to complete these works, especially now, as tourism is vital to the economic development of Puerto Rico and fuels local communities.” Visitors are encouraged to come and enjoy the murals and the vibrant art scene that Puerto Rico offers, as well as its blend of Spanish, Taino Indian and African heritages. For more information, head on over to visit Discover Puerto Rico here for further information. Source: Lonely Planet, Discover Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Art Scene Elevates with New Street Art & Murals

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With just a single stalk, flowers often let you convey a message without having to speak a word. As it was in the Victorian times, the language of flowers can be intricate with every flower type offering different meanings. Tulips tend to be a popular choice especially in the spring for their versality and array of vibrant colours that often carry meanings of their own. Let’s break down the meaning behind each tulip colour so that you don’t end up giving the wrong tulip colour to the wrong person for the wrong occasion. Red Tulip The red tulip is the most romantic of all colors of tulips. Red is often the hue of choice to express that you’re deeply in love. Red often evokes passion and romance. For those celebrating their 11th wedding anniversary, the tulips are often the flowers used to celebrate over a decade of love and commitment. Red tulips are a great choice to mark this momentous milestone. Pink Tulip Pink is the colour of happiness, caring and good wishes. This makes pink tulips ideal presents for friends and families especially if you’re planning on congratulating a friend or family member on a new job or promotion. Make a pleasant gesture when you send this to them on their first day at work as a surprise. White Tulip Delicate and virginal in appearance, there is no better flower than the white tulip to have as part of your wedding day decoration. But did you know that white tulips are also the symbol for respect? They are perfect if you want to make a good impression with someone. Purple Tulip If you want to let her know that she’s the queen in your life, then purple tulips are perfect for getting that message across. Purple has long been the colour of royalty and is perfect as well, if you want to wish someone a new start. Hence why you sometimes find purple tulips in bridal bouquet. Orange Tulip A bouquet of orange tulips can mean that you feel both physically and spiritually connected to someone. The colour of orange are used to represent a mutual connection and understanding between two people, mainly couples. Sometimes fascination, energy and enthusiasm can also be communicated through orange tulips. Yellow Tulip Did you know that the yellow colour were once associated with jealousy and hopeless love but modern interpretations have given it a sunnier meaning? Now the yellow tulips stand for hope and cheerful happy thoughts. The yellow tulips are a perfect gift if you wish someone happiness. There are often given during the start of spring and during Easter. *** With this fun and easy to remember flower colour lesson, it’s evident that different colours of tulips should be used for corresponding occasions. Can’t seem to pick a colour for an occasion? Then why not give the recipient a tulip bouquet of multiple colours as the flowers alone represents elegance and grace in the language of flowers. Of course, the best way to experience the serene beauty of tulips is when they are blooming at their finest and in the thousands. Tulips bloom when the weather warms up and when they do, anticipate rows and rows of vibrant colours as far as the eyes can see. And this best place to seek out this spectacular view is undoubtedly in Europe, home to some particularly stunning fields that needs to be seen in person. Check out some of these Europe River Cruises that will take you along some of Europe’s most iconic rivers and to some of the most beautiful tulip fields in the area. For more information, head on over to https://www.seduniapremium.com/ or https://www.avalonwaterways.com.my/

The Meaning Behind Each Tulip Colour

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Good news for all you Cherry Blossom fans - Japan isn't the only country that has it. It certainly is the only country that markets it best but fret not because there are cheaper alternatives for Cherry Blossom hunters. Taiwan and South Korea are also two other countries that also have their own hanami spirit. Source: Photo by Winston Chen on Unsplash Out of the two, Taiwan is relatively cheaper and overall more budget-friendly. Expanses in Taiwan in general are lower in comparison to other East Asian countries. While the initial impression of the tourist passes may come off as pricey but if you really think about it, you will realise that they are actually cost effective in the long run especially when Cherry Blossom hunting is your main objective. On top of that, flights to Taiwan are also considerably cheaper. To give you an idea of which part of Taiwan to visit and when, here's the Forecast 2020 by The Travel Intern. Cherry blossoms in Taiwan start blooming as early as January and can still be seen till April, depending on the cherry variety. Cherry blossom viewing in Taiwan can very much dependent on weather conditions too. If it’s rainy, flowers are likely to be sparse, and trends from recent years have shown the flowers to be blooming around two weeks later than usual. Sources: The Travel Intern ,

Taiwan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2020

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Warning: Cuteness overload ahead. Meet Coco. This little bunny got to experience something many of us could only dream of doing or can only experience after years of frequent flyer miles. Dressed for the occasion in her adorable bow-tie, she flew on business class from San Francisco to Japan. Coco's adventure happened back in 2018 when her owner Takako Ogawa had to move from US to Japan to start her new career. Only now the photos are going viral and we could not be any happier about it. "I was returning to Japan, resigning from Google to start my new career," Ogawa, co-founder and CEO of analytics startup Panalyt Japan , tells Insider of taking Coco with her. "I couldn't leave her in the States , so I took her back with me." To bring Coco aboard, Ogawa registered her as an emotional support animal, and paid $100 to have her in the cabin in a special case. When staff informed Ogawa there would be no one sitting in the seat next to her in business class, she decided to let Coco enjoy the high life. "I thought it was super nice of the flight attendants to let her use the unoccupied cubicle next to me, and for bringing her treats throughout the trip," says Ogawa, adding staff would come by to meet Coco. And Coco was a model passenger, too — Ogawa says that, although she brought pet sheets in case of accidents, Coco didn't make a mess. It's not the first time Coco has flown business class. "She traveled from Japan to San Francisco when we moved there in 2015," explained Ogawa. "This was her second long flight." Ogawa said the story of Coco's flight going viral surprised her. "I didn't know about it since I live so far away," she told Insider, adding it's "adorable" that it has. But will Ogawa be bringing Coco — who "has gone to the Google office occasionally," been to barbeques, and also appeared in family portraits — on board to live the high life in the sky again? She told Insider: "I think she's too old now that she's getting closer to nine years old!" Source: This article was originally published on Insider.com.

This Pet Rabbit Got Her Own Seat in Business Class and Spent the Flight Eating Croissants

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United States of America, Ireland, Italy... all such exotic and out of reach destinations. Many often do not travel these places as they find the price tag too high. But what if we told you that these destinations can, in fact, be budget-friendly? Join us as we countdown Cosmos’ list of 10 Affordable Destinations to visit this year and why. 1. Ring of Kerry, Ireland Source: Ring of Kerry, Ireland by Ian Schneider on Unsplash A drive along the Ring of Kerry presents dramatic views of rugged islands, pristine beaches, stunning mountain passes and a royal goat. From rugged coastline to charming villages and bustling towns, it is no surprise that the Ring of Kerry is one of the most popular routes in Ireland. We find it’s best explored slow for you to truly savour the sights and venture off the beaten track. 2. Krakow, Poland Source: Krakow by Nomadic Julien on Unsplash Long revered by many as Poland’s most beautiful city, Krakow combines a rich cultural heritage, fascinating history and beautiful architecture. The city’s neighbourhoods merge trendy cafes and busy bars with centuries-old buildings without loosing its identity. In the Old Town, St. Mary’s Basilica’s musical ring echoes through the streets as it has done for seven centuries. There is so much to be discovered in Krakow, something best done in the company of a local guide. 3. Palermo, Italy Source: Palermo by Cristina Gottardi on Unsplash Churches, marketplaces and palazzos in mixes of Byzantine mosaics, Arabesque domes and frescoed cupolas – Palermo has been one of the most dynamic and colourful cities of the Mediterranean. This is attributed to it being the apex of civilisations for centuries, located at the edge of Europe and at the center of the ancient world. A day spent in this city is a journey through time for the curious traveller. 4. Plitvice National Park, Croatia Source: Plitvice park by Shawn Appel on Unsplash The Plitvice National Park is considered one of the most beautiful natural sights in Europe and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 to preserve that beauty. What truly sets it apart from other national parks is its unique system of 16 interlinked lakes and a huge forest complex around it that is home to a myriad of wildlife species. Visitors that have visited the park can attest to its mesmerising natural allure. 5. Dubrovnik, Croatia Source: Dubvronik by Morgan on Unsplash Much like Game of Thrones, the medieval walled city of Dubrovnik has had a painful history of war and restoration. But amidst its iconic structures, the city never fails to invoke a sense of wonder. With an endless shimmer of Adriatic, the city’s limestone walkways, baroque buildings and ancient wall cities that protect the capital are just begging to be explored and captured in memory. 6. Rome, Italy Source: Rome by L A L A on Unsplash According to Lonely Planet, the capital of Italy is a historical powerhouse. Indeed, with a spiced mix of stunning ruins, awe-inspiring art and colourful lifestyle on the street, Rome is without doubt one of the world’s most charismatic cities. And it can be argued that one of the best ways to experience it is through an included cooking masterclass where you can learn how to prepare an authentic scrumptious Italian meal. 7. Marrakesh, Morocco Source: Marrakesh by Clément Bergey on Unsplash Marrakesh marches to its own beat. The red city of Marrakesh remains a tapestry of ramparts, mosques, palaces, gardens, vibrant public squares, and souks (markets). Dive into a haggling war for that satisfactory purchase of housewares and handicrafts at the souks or marvel at the heaps of coloured spices that have been patted into perfectly shaped pyramids at apothecaries. Marrakesh is a city unlike any other with its twisty alleyways of medieval medina – a city within a city. 8. Joshua Tree National Park, California Source: Joshua Tree National Park by Owen Rupp on Unsplash Venture into the high desert of California to Joshua Tree National Park , a vast protected area in Southern California. Here two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado deserts come together with a vibrant variety of plants and animals. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic moulded by wind and torrent rain features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness in southern California. 9. Palm Springs, California Source: Palm Springs by Cody Board on Unsplash Journey to the desert oasis of Palm Springs, City of California . Located at the base of San Jacinto Mountains, this city is the ancestral home of the Cahuilla Indians. Its streets invite you to explore its boutique shops, art gallery and museums while strolling amidst palm trees under the warm sun. Enjoy the warm colours saturated by the calming desert light and discover a laidback destination unlike other American cities. 10. New York City, USA Source: NYC by Andre Benz on Unsplash The Big Apple needs no introduction. Broadway, the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, Chinatown, Wall Street – New York City is literally the epicentre of the arts, architectural metropolitan, shopping haven and dining galore. Each attraction visit will feel like an encounter with a celebrity. Fall in love with the art deco skyscrapers and get drawn in by its energy, creativity and diverse people that keeps pulling people back to it. *** You may still be thinking, how on earth are these places affordable. Well, they can be when you have the choice of selecting where you want to go and what you want to do according to your budget and interest. Cosmos puts your budget in your hands by giving you options for you to pick from and to customise your tour. Of course, Cosmos doesn’t skimp on the essentials for ease, comfort and discovery and includes accommodation and transportation. Cosmos offers escorted tours to these ten locations and more. For more on Cosmos guided packages, click here.

Cosmos' Top 10 Affordable Destinations to visit in 2023

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Cruises are grand and luxurious with the image of lounging on the deck next to a swimming pool as your ship takes you across the high seas. Cabins are decked out for comfort and privacy and the food often leaves you wanting more. The itineraries are often designed to give you a taste of your destinations with multiple excursions carried out at each stop. More often than not, it's always the destination that is the highlight of these cruises. But what if... your entire cruise was crafted around a singular interest? Enriching the cruise experience to a new level, themed cruises set the tone and mood as soon as you embark, surrounded by like-minded travellers with shared interest. Some themed cruises offer chances to hobnob with famous musicians, authors or athletes, or attend lectures, concerts and Q&As in intimate settings. Whatever your theme and interest maybe, let's start here — we’ll give you a few ideas and dates to give you a head start in planning for a cruise vacation to remember! Gastronomical Escape Gastronomy, Vineyards & Grands Crus, 9D8N Lisbon - Lorient, 11-19 April 2020. In partnership with Ducasse Paris, Chateau Latour and Le Point. A cruise dedicated to food and wine? Yes please! This is every Malaysian food's dream cruise! The gastronomical cruise by Ponant takes you from Lisbon to Lorient. Not only will you be treated to the local delicacies of the region, but this cruise also draws on the talented skills of Ducasse Paris, Chateau Latour and Le Point. You will be able to wine and dine with culinary experts such as Jocelyn Herland and Cédric Grolet, chefs of the Meurice restaurant. An Ode to Beethoven A Musical Odyssey in Northern Europe, 10D9N Stockholm - Honfleur, 8-17 Sept 2020 Who hasn't heard of the legendary Beethoven (not the Saint Bernard)? In case you didn't know, 2020 is the anniversary of the birth of Ludwig van Beethoven and what better time to embark on a cruise dedicated entirely to him than now. From Stockholm to Honfleur, you will be joined by world-class chamber musicians onboard your Ponant cruise who will be performing an all-Beethoven repertoire. Furthermore, just for you, two private concerts of Beethoven’s oeuvre will be curated exclusively with one to be held at the historical 17th century Westerkerk in Amsterdam. On the Treasure Trail Treasures of the Persian Gulf - with Renaud Capuçon, 9D8N Muscat - Dubai, 19-27 Nov 2020. In partnership with the Louvre and with Yannick Lintz, curator & director of the department of Islamic Arts. Ever wanted to feel like Princess Jasmine and Aladdin? This Ponant themed cruise lets you do just that and more as you embark on an adventure to discover the treasures of the desert of the Arabian Peninsula. Combining art, nature and literature, this cruise will take you across the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf in 9 culturally enriching days. Venture into destinations and landmarks that look like the live action movie of Aladdin in its magical Disney wonder with the added bonus of the exceptional company of Alain Duault and French classical violinist Renaud Capuçon onboard. Why river cruise - can a massive cruise ship do this?? Themed cruises are a great option for first-time cruisers or those looking to combine an interest with a relaxing vacation. Not only will you enjoy a holiday catered to your interest, but you can also mingle and immerse yourself in the presence of industry experts, giving you an intimate experience unlike any other cruise. Looking for more theme cruise options? Plenty more await -- you just have to know where to look. For more information on Ponant's themed cruises and other dates or small ship cruising, check out Sedunia Travel, the wholesaler for Ponant at https://www.seduniapremium.com/premium-collections . Bon voyage!

Themed Cruises Worth Setting Sails For

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Now you can fly into Germany and explore the countryside and other cities as well thanks to the newly announced codesharing partnership between Qatar Airways and railway company Deutsche Bahn! The partnership between Qatar Airways and Deutsche Bahn aims to offer seamless connections to and from eight key destinations around Germany which are Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Hannover, Leipzig, Cologne, Dusseldorf, Munich, and Hamburg via Qatar Airways’ Frankfurt gateway in Germany. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “This codeshare agreement between Qatar Airways and Deutsche Bahn further strengthens the ties between Germany and Qatar. We have witnessed significant growing demand between Germany to Qatar and beyond. Our new codeshare destinations not only meet that demand, but provide a service for our valued passengers in Doha, and from dozens of destinations globally to new, exciting places to explore in Germany.” Berthold Huber, Member of the Management Board for Passenger Transport of Deutsche Bahn, said: "We are very pleased to further intensify our succesful and long-standing Rail&Fly cooperation with Qatar Airways through our new codeshare agreement. The Qatar Airways and Deutsche Bahn codeshare offers our joint customers a seamless, easy and flexible journey to and from different German cities.“
Qatar Airways currently operates 35 weekly flights between Doha and Frankfurt, Munich and Berlin. Two daily flights from Frankfurt and Munich, and one daily flight from Berlin.

Qatar Airways Partners with Deutsche Bahn for Rail & Fly

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The internet is now playing a bigger role more than ever when it comes to researching and planning for travel. Where we get our inspiration to travel, how we gain information, where we book the nitty gritty details of travel is all done online now, without us even having to leave our homes or from the comforts of our office chairs. We can book our flights while commuting home via train or bus with the ever increasing existence of apps and mobile-friendly sites. Major banking player United Overseas Bank (UOB) Malaysia recently revealed that they have observed a shift in the way their customers plan and book heir travels with 81% of their travel-related spend last year taking place online. This in fact a 35% increase from the previous year . Furthermore, majority of that spending goes into booking and purchasing flights (99%), hotels (58%) and travel agency services (85%) . Insights revealed at the launch of UOB's new online travel marketplace, The Travel Insider showed that travellers' today want to travel at the best deal and value but find the planning and research aspects of it cumbersome and tedious. It's no surprise considering that travellers spend hours trawling through online and offline resources just to create their ideal itinerary. On top of that, they also face the chore of comparing prices for hotels, tours or airfares, the volume of information needs to process can be cumbersome and time consuming. Recognising a void to be filled and to provide added service and value to ts travel-oriented customer base, UOB announced the Malaysian arm of The Travel insider, the first online travel marketplace to be designed by a bank. The Travel Insider was first launched in Singapore in 2018 and has been extended to travellers in Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. The Travel Insider, first online travel marketplace by a bank Serving as an all-in-one destination site, the Travel Insider aims to take the pain out of the process by gathering top insider tips, curated content to create travel guides and proposed itineraries. Travellers can also benefit from the pool of deals from UOB's travel partners. Of course, UOB members get additional benefits when they book or purchase via The Travel Insider. Amongst some of the over 100 partners on the new site are such as Agoda, Booking.com, Expedia and Singapore Airlines. UOB members can also look forward to accessing the Marketplace once it has been integrated with the revamped UOB app in the near future. To find out more, travellers can visit https://thetravelinsider.co/

UOB launches online travel marketplace, The Travel Insider

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Australia is burning and what a heartbreaking sight it is to see families displaced from their homes, millions of hectares of land burnt and endangered wildlife losing their lives and their natural habitats in the millions. This is the worst bushfire Australia has experienced ever and it is not yet over. If you’re a tourist visiting Australia on a holiday, a bushfire is probably something you will not expect yourself to encounter. But as witnessed in the recent disaster, an uncontained bushfire can easily blaze out of control and cause tremendous damage to the land and wildlife. Most Australian households have a bushfire survival kit prepared but a tourist will most likely not even think of it. How and why are bushfires so dangerous? Early preparation can save your life as in times of crisis, there will be critical decision making that needs to be made. So to be as safe as possible when faced with a bushfire threat, always remember to prepare – act – survive. PREPARE Before you fly Check with your travel insurance: it might not cover bushfires. You’ll need to have taken out the policy in advance of the disaster starting. Talk to your insurance if you decide it’s more sensible not to travel. Make sure that you’ll have full mobile phone data and call connectivity, so pick up a SIM card at the airport or get an eSIM if your phone supports them. · Somewhat confusingly for visitors, every Australian state and territory has its own sources of information, and separate authorities for emergency information, including bushfires. Find out what bushfire safety plans are in place in the area where you are camping, caravanning or renting accommodation. Most hotels and accommodations will have their own plans so ask in advance. Know the most up-to-date fire danger rating in the area via the local radio stations or social media or checking with the local fire agency. Find the nearest Neighbourhood Safer Place when you are staying in a high-risk fire area and know alternative routes to leave your destination. Plan activities carefully on hot, dry and windy days. Contact the visitor information centres for safe tourist activities and locations. Pack your own emergency survival kit and have it accessible at all times. ACT In the event of a bushfire During a bushfire Keep your family and friends updated of your movements. Only if it’s safe to do so, update on social media to tell others what you can see. This will help the community with first-hand and reliable knowledge on what’s happening. Seek shelter away from the radiant heat. If in a building, make sure there is a point of exit in every room. Ensure you can see what’s happening in your surroundings. Radiant heat can be blocked by a solid object such as a concrete wall or building which creates a barrier between you and the fire. What is Radiant heat Being outdoors during a bushfire means you risk exposure to radiant heat, which can kill a human without flames ever touching them. Extreme temperatures from radiant cause death from heatstroke where the body's cooling system fails, leading to heat exhaustion and heart failure. Ensure you continue to stay cool and keep drinking water to stay hydrated. If someone is affected by heatstroke, move them to a shaded area and try to cool them down. Call triple-0 and seek help immediately. Driving This is a last resort. Cars are a very dangerous place to be during a bushfire as they offer very little protection from radiant heat. SURVIVE After a bushfire Check with official agencies, authorities, media and social media for updates and instructions In case you become separated from loved ones, inform an authority or Red Cross. Red Cross manages Register. Find. Reunite, a national registration and enquiry service. When the service is activated, people can register at www.redcross.org.au or in person at an evacuation or relief centre. You can also use the website if you are unable to contact a loved one who may have been affected. What’s happening in Australia now is undoubtedly tragic. But only through preventive and preparation, can an event such as this be avoided and managed in future. Similarly, a visitor to this beautiful unique continent can do their part as well. sources: NSW Rural Fire Service , Lonely Planet , ABC Emergency

What to do in a bushfire

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We've just received the news - hot off the press. Cherry blossoms are on their way to Japan to usher in the spring season. However this year will see an earlier than usual blooming of Japan's most iconic symbol of spring. So read on if you have seeing sakura flowers in Japan on your bucket list. Without a doubt, this is the most beautiful and most popular time to visit Japan. Most of the time, the season peaks in that one week when the flowers themselves are in full bloom. So thankfully, Nihon Kisho, a Japanese weather forecasting company has released its initial cherry blossom forecast for 2020. Nihon Kishu is predicting a warm early spring, pushing the cherry blossoms to open in March rather than the usual April. So sakura chasers are encouraged to plan their trips for mid March if they want to catch the first blooms and in the last week of March to catch the full bloom. These are the predicted dates for blossoming for these prefectures according to Nihon Kishu: ● Kochi : March 19/March 27
● Fukuoka : March 20/March 29
● Aichi : March 21/March 30
● Hiroshima : March 22/April 1
● Kyoto : March 23/April 1
● Wakayama : March 24/April 1
● Osaka : March 25/April 1
● Kagoshima : March 25/April 5
● Ishikawa : April 1/April 7
● Miyagi : April 7/April 12
● Nagano : April 9/April 14
● Aomori : April 23/April 27
● Hokkaido : May 1/May 5 Here's our tips: ● Avoid the usual tourist spots and head to less-travelled prefectures such as Fukuoka and Aichi. Don't want to pay the steep price that comes with cherry blossoms in Tokyo and Kyoto? Then why not push your trip to May and head over to Hokkaido for a more relax experience. ● Download the Sakura Navi App ( App Store / Google Play ) to help you get information on flowering forecast and full bloom dates of cherry blossoms across the country. Furthermore, the app will also alert you if you're close to a Cherry Blossom spot as well as a Stamp card function that lets you recrod your previously visited locations.
Happy Flower Chasing! Source: @Press , Nihon Kisho

Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2020

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Updated 2.3.2020: Due to the virus outbreak, Sanrio Puroland will be closed until 15th Mar 2020. Check back here again for further updates. In line with the spring season for Japanese strawberries Sanrio Puroland has created a “very berry sweets party”. The theme park invites guests to get a taste of special strawberry and blueberry sweets and enjoy the strawberry and blueberry inspired shows. From 10th of January until 10th March visitors to Hello Kitty Land Tokyo, also known as Sanrio Puroland , will experience its latest seasonal event the “Puro Sweets – a very berry sweets party”. Strawberries and blueberries will be everywhere in the theme park. So prepare yourselves! Hello Kitty Land Tokyo visitors can choose from a variety of specifically created strawberry and blueberry desserts available at the Yakata restaurant like Hello Kitty's strawberry Baumkuchen. In addition to that, the restaurant offers on Saturdays only, a special strawberry and blueberry sweets buffet available at a supplementary charge. Puroland characters in sweets-motifed outfits will also be present to meet, greet and take photos with restaurant guests. Strawberries and blueberries will also dominate the stages in Puro Villageduring the daytime with performances sure to thrill children and adults alike. From 10th January until Valentine’s Day "Ichigo Ichie - MyMelody's Strawberry Illumination " will go on, followed by " SPARKLE!! - Sweet Lights " featuring Hello Kitty from 15th February until 10th March. Both performances culminate in a bright and pink illumination of Puro Village. The main evening show, " Miracllusion★Happiness ", using special illumination and projection mapping technology features Hello Kitty and DearDaniel in angel costumes. As always, capture memorable photos at Sanrio Puroland's special photo spots in line with the seasonal event. During the “very berry character hug time" at the Puro Village Hello Kitty Land visitors can get up-close and personal with their favourite characters dressed in strawberry or blueberry-themed outfits. On Valentine's Day, Hello Kitty or MyMelody will also go around giving out candies as part of a Special Sweets Greeting. “We want to make the start of 2020 “sweeter” for our visitors to Hello Kitty Land Tokyo”, says Yuya Makizato of Sanrio Entertainment Co. Ltd., the Hello Kitty Land Tokyo operator. “The beginning of the year is also the season for the Japanese “spring strawberries” which are very sweet and aromatic. In addition the event embraces a new tradition, which emerged in Japan over the past few decades, to give sweets to loved ones in February and March.” More detailed information on the schedule can be found at this link--> https://www.puroland.jp/2020_sweetspuro/ *Japanese only. Here's a tip: if you are viewing the page on a desktop, you can right click on the page and select translate to English and voila! You will get a rough translate of the page and should be able to extract the relevant information from it. Sanrio Puroland is located just an hour's train ride from Shinjuku in Tama New Town making it ideal for a day trip or overnight for those wanting to explore the area further.

Sweets Puro Time at Hello Kitty Land Tokyo!

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A popular tourist landmark in Puerto Rico, Punta Ventana, was destroyed in the Puerto Rico earthquakes Monday, according to the Miami Herald and The New York Times . A 5.8-magnitude quake hit the Caribbean island before dawn Monday, unleashing small landslides, causing power outages and severely cracking homes. It was one of the strongest quakes yet to hit the U.S. territory, which has been hit by temblors for the past week. There were no immediate reports of casualties. The beachside rock formation was located in the town of Guayanilla and is aptly named Punta Ventana (or "Window Point") as it resembles a stone window that looks out to a beautiful view of the ocean behind it. According to The Times, Mayor Nelson Torres Yordán said "it finally fell" on Monday after the formation started to look vulnerable after smaller temblors began hitting the area a week earlier. Denniza Colon, a 22-year-old resident of Guayanilla, told the Herald that she was shocked when she saw the arch had vanished. “This is really sad,” she told the outlet in a telephone interview. “It was one of the biggest tourism draws of Guayanilla.” A tourism draw, indeed. Some of the over 16,000 Instagram results for the hashtag #Guayanilla feature shots of Punta Ventana. Side-by-side images of the destruction are also being shared around social media, though USA TODAY was unable to verify the photos' authenticity. User @savingpuertorico shared a post along with the caption: "One of Puerto Rico’s iconic natural wonders — a soaring stone arch along the southern coast known as Punta Ventana or Window Point — collapsed early Monday" Sources: Danico Coto, The Associated Press, MSN

Puerto Rico earthquakes destroy landmark Punta Ventana

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Written and contributed by Trip101 Source: Uchral Sanjaadorj on Unsplash A vast untouched and undiscovered wilderness is the perfect way to describe much of Mongolia. Off the beaten track for many, tourism still provides an authentic taste of nomadic culture, stunning nature, and vibrant festivals. Some areas are so remote that you can be the only person within miles! If you want a travel experience that will stay with you for years, Mongolia is the country for you. Source: Image by Erdenebayar Bayansan from Pixabay In this post, we’ll take a look at the 5 most unique experiences in Mongolia . Hopefully, it’ll help you to plan your trip and really make the most of what’s on offer in this beautiful country! Take the Grand Trans-Siberian train to Ulaanbaatar The Grand Trans-Siberian express is the perfect way to visit Ulaanbaatar from either Moscow or Beijing. You’ll travel in opulent luxury, then when you disembark the train you’ll have the chance to try all of the below and more. Source: Grand Trans Siberian Express No trip to Mongolia is complete without visiting the country’s fascinating capital city, Ulaanbaatar. It’s home to the country’s only international airport and railway line, so to be honest, it’s impossible not to visit! But don’t just see it as somewhere to stop off, it’s a really fascinating city. Two to three days is enough to see the main attractions of one of the few urban centres for miles and miles around. The bright lights and hustle and bustle are something to behold. Source: veronikapucerova on Pixabeay Learn about the country’s history at the National History Museum, try traditional Mongolian fare at excellent restaurants, and find peace at the temples which are dotted throughout the capital. To get a view of it all, head to the Zaisan Monument viewpoint. It’ll give you the best panoramic of the unique Ulaanbaatar skyline, some of which is made up of yurts! Experience a traditional Mongolian homestay Mongolians are a nomadic people and what better way to learn more about the culture than staying in a traditional homestay? A ger is a tent style home made of skins and felt, and it’s both a symbol of traditional Mongolian heritage and a unique opportunity for travellers. You have loads of options too – you can either stay in a ger as part of an organised tour, go on an independent hike and hope to come across one, or head to a specific tourist camp. What you should choose depends on your travel style: tourist camps are generally more comfortable, but you won’t have the experience of meeting a local family! Source: Photo by Patrick Schneider on Unsplash A single door opens up to the yurt’s interior, which is warm in winter and cool in summer. Heat from the stove escapes through a hole in the top. Mongolian families are known for their kindness and hospitality, so make sure you show plenty of respect and sample everything that is offered to you. This is an unforgettable and unique Mongolian experience! Witness the spectacle of the Naadam Festival Mongolia has several festivals throughout the year, and what a spectacle they are. There’s the Golden Eagle Festival, which celebrates the relationship between Kazakh hunters and eagles, but the real jewel in the crown is the Naadam Festival, the festival of Mongolia’s national sports. That’s right, where most countries have one national sport, Mongolia was indecisive. So, this is a celebration of wrestling, archery, and horse racing! Source: Image by Enkhtamir Enkhdavaa from Pixabay It’s a three day event which takes place in July across the whole country, though the main event is in Ulaanbaatar. The sports were initially intended to scout out the military for Genghis Khan’s army. Nowadays, it’s a celebration of national heritage, but it’s taken no less seriously than it would have been all those years ago! Naadam is now known as the “three manly games”, although there’s nothing stopping females participating in these sports! Head out into the Gobi Desert The Gobi Desert is the 5th largest desert in the world, covering over 1.3 million square kilometres. That’s a lot of pristine opportunity for hiking, camel riding, and photographing otherworldly landscapes and sunsets! Image by hbieser from Pixabay In fact, photography is one of the top reasons to visit the Gobi Desert. Not only will you get awesome sunsets, but unforgettable sunrises, and if your cameras good enough, a sky full of stars too! You can even find tours specifically focused on photography. Source: Photo by Patrick Schneider on Unsplash If you don’t want to hike through the Gobi Desert, another option is riding a camel. Another exciting Mongolian festival takes place in March each year called the Thousand Camels. It celebrates the Gobi Bactrian camel, and you’ll be lucky enough to see camel parades, camel polo, and a number of other cultural events at this intriguing festival. Check out a range of Gobi Desert Tours to find the one best suited to your interests! Get up close and personal with bird of prey We’ve already mentioned the Golden Eagle festival, and it’s the perfect way to round off our list of unique experiences in Mongolia. Head to the Western Province of Bayan-Ölgii to learn more about the relationship between man and eagle in one of the world’s most riveting and unusual festivals. At the festival, you can see such awards as best turned out eagle and owner, and best eagle at locating prey! Source: Lightscape on Unsplash Of course, the festival isn’t all about the birds of prey. It’s a fantastic opportunity to find out more about this remote province’s culture, customs, and traditional foods and dress. It’s a three-hour flight from Mongolia and again, it’s probably best to arrange a tour than attempt to organise it yourself. However, you’re very welcome to try! The festival takes place every October! If you can’t travel during October, the Western provinces are still a great place for birdwatching. So, now that you have a better idea of how to make the most of your trip to Mongolia… You’ll probably want to get booking your trip! Remember, Mongolia is miles and miles of remote wilderness, so unless you’re really confident and brave, you’ll probably want to book an organised tour. Check out Sedunia Travels to see what’s on offer or for further advice on travelling to Mongolia!

5 Most Unique Experiences in Mongolia

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