ISSUE 9 - WINTER 2020
RIHAALA
ITS MENTAL
THE FUTURE
Your Mental health matters. We look at how to manage 2021
We predict the changes 2021 will hold for travellers and holidays
PRIVACY ON TAP Check out our top private villas you need to stay at in 2021
CONTACT US RIHAAL MAGAZINE @halaltravel
@dipitytravel
EDITORIAL SUSSIE WILLET Editor In Chief
ASMAA ALAOUI Editorial
WELCOME It's great to see you again!
It's crazy to think it only seems like yesterday when I was writing to thank you for another awesome year. And now, here we are again, about to say goodbye to what has been quite a blur, and hello to what we can only hope will bring more comfort and happiness. 2020 was supposed to be 'the year', and in someways it was, just in a completely different way than what we had expected. COVID-19, global lockdowns, too many unexpected events that brought the world to a stand still, yet here we are going strong, making the most of what we can despite everything that has happened. While our Winter edition is quite different this year, we hope you'll still find comfort knowing travel is still possible, a cure will be found, and our sadness and despair over the last 9 months of the year will come to the end.
Wishing you a wonderful 2021 SUSSIE WILLET Editor In Chief
PAGE 3
CONTRIBUTORS Amber Sweetman, Nabeel Shariff, Abdurrahman Bobat
GET IN TOUCH EMAIL travel@rihaala.com CALL US +44 (0) 203 397 4397
R I H A A L A
M A G A Z I N E
DECEMBER / ISSUE 09
C O N T E N T S 0 5
Mosque Feature Cambridge Central Mosque
0 9
Cover Feature The Future Of Travel And Tourism
1 6
2 4
2 8
Hotel Feature Private Villas Checklist Travel Essentials For The New Normal Travelling in a COVID-19 World Where to now?
07 12 21 35 41 39 43
Hanger One Cabin Fever -The New Standard Beauty Tips A Snow Lovers Paradise 5 #Hashtags to Follow When Travelling Your Mental Health Matters The Man In Seat 1a
CAMBRIDGE CENTRAL MOSQUE E U R O P E ’ S
PAGE 5
F I R S T
E C O - M O S Q U E
A unique prayer space that fuses traditional and
Curved oak benches where visitors can sit and
modern
Central
enjoy the sound and movement of the water, the
Mosque is definitely one of a kind. Boasting green
colours and fragrances of the flowers, and the
credentials that reflect Islam's ideals of earth, soul,
shade of the trees makes the perfect spot to
and
relax
architecture,
community
the
care,
the
Cambridge
very
first
Eco-friendly
and
mosque in Europe welcomes Muslims to enjoy a
There
is
peaceful and traditional
before
fountain
area
after
prayer
featuring
crab-apple
mixed
year,
yew
twist.
naturalistic perennials and damask roses, giving
found
at
the
a
front
breathtaking of
the
Islamic
mosque,
Garden,
this
special
the
overall
effect
of
an
informal,
of
carpet-like
strong geometry. The gardens strike a harmonious
as
balance between Islamic structure and relaxed
a
taste
of
Jannat
al-Firdaws,
the
and
the
beds
quiet transition from the city to the prayer space, as
scent
throughout
dense
pattern
well
colour,
enclose
outdoor area is open to everyone, and provides a
Paradise Gardens described in the Qur’an.
of
hedges
planting
time.
trees,
to
seasonal
or
carefully designed with a modern day Eco-friendly Home
mosque which has been
a
reflect
texture
within
English herbaceous and naturalistic planting.
a
ERUTAEF EUQSOM
An elegant design inspired by both Islamic and British traditions
TRAVEL NEWS
HANGAR ONE SAILING >
MSC CRUISES PLANS TO SAIL TO 47 COUNTRIES IN 2022 After an unexpected year of uncertainty, MSC Cruises has announced its Summer 2022 program, which includes 19 ships heading for the high seas for 83 unique trips to 47 countries. Five MSC ships will offer seven-night cruises around the Western Mediterranean. Another five ships will offer seven-night cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean.
HOTELS >
THE FOUR SEASONS BANGKOK: BRINGING UNPARALLELED LUXURY TO THAILAND’S CAPITAL CITY Located along the open riverfront, and just 40 minutes from Suvarnabhumi International Airport the much-anticipated return of Four Seasons to Thailand’s capital is nothing short of spectacular. With relaxing views of the Chao Phraya River, the fourth location in the Four Seasons Thailand Collection comes with 299 rooms, as well as a number of restaurants and lounges, event spaces, and an urban wellness center. The complex also includes 366 Four Seasons Private Residences, which will open in 2021. PAGE 7
COVID-19 >
THE LATEST ON THE TRAVEL BAN Countries around the world are imposing bans and restrictions on travel from the United Kingdom to stem the transmission of a coronavirus variant that health authorities say can spread faster than others. Since the UK lockdown was, nearly 40 countries in Europe, Asia, South America and the Middle East have restricted travel from the UK and in some cases, also travel from other countries that have documented cases with the variant. HOTELS >
SIX SENSES KOCATAS MANSIONS ISTANBUL
THE ENVIRONMENT >
EARTH UPDATE: THE POSITIVE OUTCOME OF THE CURRENT PANDEMIC The current pandemic put the world to a standstill, and in many places around the world, the situation is pretty much the same. However, one good outcome from the chaotic year we've had is how carbon emissions have reduced by a staggering amount. With almost the whole world grounded, flights have been cancelled, fewer cars are on the road, and public transport services have been reduced to a minimum, you can only imagine how much healthier the world in general has become in the last few months.
Once restrictions are eased there are plenty of new places to visit and enjoy, one of them being the Six Senses Kocatas Mansions Istanbul. The replica Ottoman mansion with superb Bosporus views is located away from the tourist crowds amid six lush acres in a quiet residential area. The Belle Epoque–style property includes 45 spacious guestrooms, indoor and outdoor pools, and a boat on standby to shuttle you to Istanbul’s sites. And since Six Senses is all about East meets West, there’s no better place for a traditional Turkish bath.
COVER FEATURE
THE FUTURE OF TRAVEL HOW TRAVEL WILL CHANGE AFTER THE PANDEMIC
PAGE 9
Quality Over Quantity When travelling was 'normal' it was all about seeing as many places as you could at one time. For many, visiting multiple cities and even countries in a small time frame was always the main goal. But that was pre-COVID, Now, and looking into the future, we're expecting travellers to focus more on one destination rather then multiple ones and
therefore
choosing
quality
over
quantity.
Many
holiday
destinations have so much to offer, yet travellers tend to miss some of the best parts due to tight schedules.
Road Trip? Let's Go! For many, road trips may be the only feasible option for travel right now. It could potentially be the safest way to travel too, especially with the fear of a sudden
lockdown
and
unexpected
travel bans. While a holiday abroad sounds
more
appealing,
there
are
plenty of places travellers can visit via car, plus, a road trip is the perfect way to make unforgettable memories When you think about it, driving across county lines can be just as exciting as flying across international borders; it’s all about the mindset.
The Unknown Will Become Known While we've all got our favourite holiday destination,
there
are
plenty
of
tourist
attractions and off the beaten paths still waiting to be discovered. With many of the bigger countries and cities closing their boarders, this allows the smaller and more unknown destinations to have their chance to shine. Why not try stepping out of your confort zone and visiting somewhere new?
Give Back To Your Community Yes, the excitement of hopping on a plane and
flying
to
your
favourite
holiday
destination is something that gives us butterflies, however, there is plenty to be discovered closer to home. With the current pandemic and lockdowns, try making the most or your local community and visiting somewhere nearer rather than further. We bet you'll be surprised how many hidden secrets your community and neighboring commuynity is home to!
R I H A A L A
M A G A Z I N E
DECEMBER / ISSUE 09
C A B I N
F E V E R
WELCOME TO A NEW STANDARD OF CARE
QATAR
AIRWAYS
QATAR AIRWAYS HAS LED THE INDUSTRY DURING THESE CHALLENGING TIMES ACCUMULATING UNRIVALLED EXPERIENCE IN CARRYING PASSENGERS SAFELY AND RELIABLY
REVEF NIBAC
Qatar Airways has increased its health and
safety
measures
introducing
new
equipment
(PPE)
cabin
crew.
onboard
personal for
The
by
protective
customers
airline’s
and
additional
robust measures include offering face shields
and
protective
passengers,
in
kits
addition
to
to a
all new
protective gown for cabin crew. The disposable
face
shield
will
be
available in two standard sizes – one for adults and the other for children. The children’s face shields feature the airline’s part
Oryx
of
their
travelling Airport
from
(HIA)
shields whereas
Kids
at at
mascots
design. Hamad
will the
Club
Passengers International
receive check-in
other
as
their
face
counters,
destinations,
the
face shields will be distributed at the boarding gates.
Onboard, all Qatar Airways passengers will
be
provided
with
a
complimentary
protective kit. Inside a ziplock pouch they will find a single-use
surgical
disposable
powder-free
alcohol-based Business
face
gloves
hand
Class
mask,
large
and
sanitiser
customers
will
an gel.
also
be
offered an additional 75ml sanitiser gel tube.Qatar Airways has also introduced new
disposable
cabin
crew
uniforms, gloves
in
and
gowns
are
that
protective are
addition a
mask.
gowns
fitted to
over
for their
safety
glasses,
new
branded
The
personalised
with
Qatar
Airways’ logo imprinted on the top left corner. regularly
Qatar
Airways’
disinfected
products International
using
recommended Air
aircraft
Transport
are
cleaning by
the
Association
(IATA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
C A B I N
F E V E R
PAGE 15 / ISSUE 09
S I N G A P O R E A I R L I N E S
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has introduced a range of health and safety initiatives, and enhanced several existing measures, in recent weeks as part of a comprehensive review of the end-to-end customer journey. All airlines in the SIA Group will provide their customers with a Care Kit that includes a surgical mask, anti-bacterial hand wipes and a hand sanitiser. This helps to provide additional reassurance to our customers during these uncertain times. SIA’s e-Library is the ideal digital replacement for the newspapers, magazines and seatback literature that have been removed from our aircraft. This is available via the SingaporeAir mobile app, and provides access to more than 150 international newspapers, magazines and other reading material.
C A B I N
F E V E R
PAGE 15 / ISSUE 09
E M I R A T E S
The airline was first in the industry to offer its customers free Covid-19 cover to help them travel with more confidence, knowing that medical expenses of up to EUR 150,000 and quarantine costs of EUR 100 per day for 14 days will be covered if they are diagnosed with COVID-19 during their travel, while they are away from home. Emirates' booking policies also offer customers great flexibility and confidence to plan their travel. Customers have options to change their travel dates, or extend their ticket validity for 2 years. In addition, the airline launched initiatives to help its loyal Emirates Skywards members retain their tier status and introduce new ways for them to earn and spend their Miles. The Safe Travel Barometer was launched in 2020 to monitor global traveller health and safety measures, traveler convenience initiatives and overall traveler experience which influences traveler’s decisionmaking and the actual journey in the new normal. The Safe Travel Score is an industry-first COVID-19 rating initiative, created in the wake of recovery from the pandemic. Safe Travel Barometer is a B2B solution by Safe Travel Technologies, an independent subsidiary of VIDEC, a travel industry advisory and consulting firm. The coverage includes more than 2,000 companies across 10 industry categories, 50 parameters, and traveller arrival information on more than 80 destinations.
H O T E L
F E A T U R E
PRIVATE VILLAS
ZANZIBAR WHITE SAND LUXURY VILLAS TANZANIA
kitesurfing in the sunset or indulging in a massage at the spa after a day of sunbathing. Whether you are looking for a halal friendly romantic getaway, Muslim family holiday or treating your loved ones to a luxury experience – it is our mission to ensure unforgettable holidays and utmost comfort in a stunning setting. Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is a luxury boutique hotel located on the pristine sands of Paje beach, on the East coast of Zanzibar. A sanctuary of peace
and
harmony
without
compromises
with
luxury
standards,
the
resort
promises an unforgettable barefoot luxury experience. Our spacious luxury villas (from 500 sqm), with their pool and recreational area, ensure the utmost privacy in a natural setting, while the amenities deliver the highest standard of service: including spa treatments and facilities (sauna, hammam), a restaurant, and a lounge, as well as a high-end kitesurfing and watersports center. The large resort (4 hectares) hosts only 11 villas to ensure the maximum space for each of our Guest in an undisturbed harmony of senses.
SALLIV ETAVIRP
An experience at Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is as much about
SALLIV ETAVIRP
BELL POOL VILLAS THAILAND The Muslim friendly Bell Pool Villa Phuket resort is just 5 minutes by shuttle bus from the fabulous Kamala beach, which lies on halal friendly Phuket's famous west coast. Nestled at the bottom of the beautiful Kamala mountain range, it occupies a truly spectacular setting. The town centre of Kamala, a quaint town from where you can hear the Adhan, is a short walk away. The hotel boasts elegantly appointed pool villas equipped with up-to-date amenities.
Your choice of villa depends on how many are
staying, but with 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom villas offering spacious lavish rooms, your own private pool and home-from-home extra comforts such as round-the-clock butlers, invilla dining and spa sessions on tap, you know for sure your stay will be a memorable one. Though this private getaway is ideal for Muslim couples, families with kids too can enjoy the extra luxuries this Phuket resort has to offer. With new features such as a kids menu and Netflix multimedia, your children can enjoy delicious Thai food, hours of movie fun, and even explore the surroundings with the complimentary use of bicycles.
ANANTARA LAYAN THAILAND The Anantara Layan, located on the island of Phuket is a dream resort for Muslim families,
Retreat
to
an
or
anyone
island
looking
paradise
for
where
a
beautiful
lush
hillside
location
to
overlooks
stay
in
powdery
beach. Hide away in luxury pool villas for two or sprawling residences for families.
At Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, unwind at one the finest luxury hotels in Phuket. Submit to healing massages at the Anantara Spa with massages that draw from ancient Thai healing traditions. Enjoy the spa’s private pool surrounded by lush foliage, steam rooms, and a peaceful relaxation area. Emerge renewed and ready for another day in paradise.
Indulge in halal-friendly fine dining among the restaurants in an exclusive cove setting. Enjoy the island’s favourite breakfast, succulent Mediterranean fare, and authentic Thai flavours. The collection of rooms, suites, private pool villas and residences offer a luxury of choices. Enjoy sweeping views and blissful ocean breezes from your room or villa.
SALLIV ETAVIRP
Thailand.
honeymooners
SALLIV ETAVIRP
ST. REGIS MAURITIUS MAURITIUS Retreat to a stunning beachfront setting surrounded by a tranquil turquoise lagoon overlooking the Indian Ocean at the halal friendly St. Regis Mauritius Resort. Our 5-star Mauritius hotel is renowned for our colonial Manor House on the legendary Le Morne Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the South of Mauritius. Enjoy endless recreation with our sparkling pool, fitness club, water sports or tennis court. Explore the world-famous 'One Eye' surf spot, perfect for kite surfing adventures. Indulge in body treatments at Iridium Spa.
Savor International cuisine in our five destination fine-dining restaurants. Take in a movie in our private cinema. Settle into our spacious guest suites, featuring outdoor space, island-inspired dĂŠcor and premium amenities. Choose one of our beachside suites, just steps from the waves, or our bespoke suites in the Manor House. Host an unrivaled beach wedding,
meeting
or
gathering
at
our
Mauritius
hotel.
compromise at our Mauritius resort - your spot in paradise.
Discover
luxury
without
THE NEW NORMAL
BY AMBER SWEETMAN
BEAUTY TIPS With the 'new normal' meaning we have to wear masks, our skin is prone to pimple outbreaks. Masks impose heat, friction and occlusion on the skin and when combined with a moist environment from breathing, talking or sweating, this is a recipe for breakouts. With your pores getting clogged, pimples or acne cysts tend to appear making it a must that we have a proper skin care routine lined up to prevent the outbreak from happening.
01
EXFOLIATING SCRUB
This is an important step of the skincare routine we recommend with the age of facemasks a daily necessity. Exfoliating scrubs are brilliant in removing and drawing out any dirt from your pores which will have likely built up from having your mask in contact with your face for long periods of time. We recommend heavily applying to your T zone where you are most prone to have spots blemishes. When exfoliating, gently massage the product into the skin, then remove the scrub with cold water, which specifically help to close the pores which are now clean.
02
MOISTURISE MATERIAL MASK
The next step in our routine is the moisture mask. We recommend this type of mask as it's so much easier to apply in comparison to the cream mask which is messy and can spoil clothing and even stain. The material mask is to be placed accordingly leaving the eyes and mouth exposed. One must make sure the mask sits comfortably touching the rest of the face for a better outcome. Now, all you need to do is sit back and relax for 15 minutes! After removing the mask, throw it away as it is a one-time use product, then with clean hands, massage any areas of the skin with visible product showing.
03
NIGHT CREAM + VITAMIN E
A night cream is a perfect way to deeply moisturise the skin after its lack of exposure to sun or air. This can cause dryness from the lack of vitamin E. Vitamin E helps support the immune system, cell function, and general skin health and is often present in night creams. You can purchase various night creams with added vitamin E to combat these issues. It is to be applied in a fine layer and left to soak into your skin while you sleep. Our top tip, avoid your T Zone when applying to avoid oily skin and simply apply in the main areas for a healthy glow!
CHECKLIST
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS FOR THE NEW NORMAL
CHECKLIST TRAVEL ESSENTIALS FOR THE NEW NORMAL
A slight twist on our normal gadget geek theme, listing out the necessities you'll need when travelling short or longdistance during COVID-19.
01
FACE MASK
Now required by law in many public places, we recommend a fabric mask for best fit and comfort, a key tool to keep safe during these uncertain times. Another option is a pull-up face-cover starting on your neck and to be pulled up to cover your nose. Even a scarf which you'll have laying around is better than nothing.
02
GLOVES
Gloves are another good idea to keep safe. With many options to choose from its an easy precaution to take. Disposable gloves are available for as low as £8.99 for a pack of 100. But if you’d prefer something a little more fashionable use any pair of gloves you may own to keep safe and at no added cost.
03
HAND SANITIZER
Available in many sizes and prices, we recommend a pocket-size bottle to bring with you on any journey to keep you and others germ free. A brilliant idea to keep your children safe is to purchase small bottles with personalised holders with there names and favourite colours on.
CHECKLIST TRAVEL ESSENTIALS FOR THE NEW NORMAL
04
VITAMINS
To keep your immune system at its peak, multivitamins are always a good idea alongside healthy eating and regular exercisE. With a wide range available across many supermarkets and health foods shops, as well as online stores, multivitamins can be brought for as low as ÂŁ5. Most brands have specific supplements for specific ages and genders including children as young as 2, to keep your kids immune systems on top form too!
05
THERMOMETER
One of the first signs of COVID-19 is having a temperature. It's also one of the key factors that is considered when allowing travellers in and out of countries, and even shopping centers and restaurants. To ensure you're always healthy and safe to travel whether it be local or not, purchase a reliable thermometer and check your temperature as often as needed. The last thing you want is to be denied entry to a certain location due to a slightly higher temperature than normal which could be caused by something as simple as a small infection or general illness such as a cold.
WE ARE IN THIS TOGETHER - AND WE WILL GET THROUGH THIS, TOGETHER.
UN GENERAL SECRETARY - ANTÓNIO GUTERRES
Where to now?
TRAVELLING IN A COVID-19 WORLD
PAGE28
WORDS BY SUSSIE WILLETT
"The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new."
PAGE 29
MAURITIUS While there are currently no regular commercial flights from Mauritius to the UK, that doesn't mean you can't visit in the near future! You may have to fly to destination A before getting to destination B, just like with many destinations at the moment, however, Mauritius has and still is considered a pretty safe country when it comes to COVID-19. There are no restrictions on movement around Mauritius allowing guests to move freely and explore the beautiful paradise. However, social distancing and wearing of face masks in public remains mandatory. While accommodation is now starting to open up, it's only for local residents. That being said, 2021 is looking positive for Mauritius and should definitely be on your bucket list for the new year.
PAGE 39
GREENLAND Greenland itself is a pretty isolated island, in fact, there are only two airlines that offer flights to Greenland and they are from Copenhagen and Reykjavik via Air Greenland and Air Iceland. To get to Greenland you'd have to fly into one of the above mentioned. Being so isolated, Greenland has been lucky with Corona Virus cases and have only seen a total of 18 cases since the outbreak, with 1 case being confirmed during the first half of December. Because of this, Greenland is one of the safest places to visit and they're now opening up their boarders for tourists. However, strict protocols are in place are not all countries are able to enter. Citizens from countries classified as open by the Danish Police are allowed to enter Greenland, if they follow test and quarantine restrictions. All travellers entering Greenland must show a negative test no older than 5 days and fill out a Sumut form – a personal location form – in order to board the plane. To find out more about Greenland's protocols and to stay updated, check out their website here.
SAINT LUCIA Saint Lucia is among the few countries that have been fairly lucky when it comes to COVID-19. As of mid December, Saint Lucia has had a total of 282 cases since the initial outbreak, and with the help of the government and Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, the breathtaking paradise like island has finally opened their boarders and are allowing entry from all countries. While Saint Lucia is open to travellers from all around the globe, there are strict rules to follow. Failure to do so could mean you're denied boarding if your documents are incomplete. There are also various protocols to follow upon arrival, similar to almost all countries that have started to allow tourists again. Hotels have also started to operate, meaning, those that are truly looking for a paradise getaway after the months in lockdown can soon start to enjoy a bit more of the 'normal life'. Private villas are also available for those looking for a little bit more luxury during the initial quarantine period. To find out more about Saint Lucia's protocols and to stay updated, check out their website here.
ZANZIBAR If you've been dreaming of the sun, sand and sea for the last few months, we know exactly how you feel! If you've been wondering when those dreams will become a reality, and where it could take place, look no further! Zanzibar is welcoming travellers from all over the world, with some of the most stress-free protocols in place!
Zanzibar has been open since the 6th of June, and luckily for those that are in good health and have health insurance (requirement) you can soon be living out that paradise dream. Tourism activities are pretty much back to normal with tourist hotels, restaurants and bars open. New arrivals won’t be subject to the 14-day quarantine period that some countries are enforcing. But they must hold valid health insurance and adhere to the country’s social distancing guidelines. All travellers will be screened on arrival and those that display symptoms will be transferred to an ‘isolation centre. If you’re healthy and meet the given criteria, you'll soon find yourself relaxing on Zanzibar’s white sandy beaches, hiking the Jozani Forest, or boating around the island’s edge, all before falling asleep to the sound of the calm waves.
SOUTH AFRICA If you've missed exploring nature and the breathtaking wildlife that comes with it, you'll be happy to hear South Africa can be put back on your travel list. Now accepting international travellers, enjoy checking in with your favorite animals and how they've been coping while the world has been on lockdown. With South Africa now open for tourism, it's good to know that only selected airports are operating . If you do plan to visit, you'll need to arrange for your arrival at either OR Tambo International Airport, King Shaka International Airport and Cape Town International Airport. There are also various protocols, but those that come prepare will find they're a lot easier than others. A paper copy of a negative test no older than 72 hours from the time of your departure is required. If you do not have a negative test, you may have to quarantine at a government facility, however there are various options available.
Winter Destinations A SNOW LOVERS PARADISE
PAGE 35
DESTINATIONS
SWISS BOUND JUNGFRAU, SWITZERLAND 3,800 + SKIING AT JUNGFRAU
One must visit in Switzerland is The Jungfrau region. Compiled of three famous peaks – the Jungfrau at 4,158 meters, the Mönch at 4,099 meters, and the 3,970meter Eiger. These three are the world’s major ski areas, which draw winter sports enthusiasts from all around the globe and make the perfect winter getaway. If you're a winter lover that adores the snow you'll fall in love with every inch of ground the region has to offer.
FINLAND LEVI, FINLAND 6,384 + APE'S TOURING COURSE
Levi is the largest winter sports resort in Finland and has been awarded four times as the best in its kind. The entire leisure complex consists of a set of 43 downhill slopes (17 of them illuminated) equipped with 27 ski lifts, including cable cars, chair lifts, T-bar lifts, rope tows, and a magic carpet for children making it the perfect family getaway.
DESTINATIONS
NORWAY If you're looking for a snowy place that not only provides tons of snow, but TROMSO, NORWAY 71,590 + NORTHERN LIGHTS
unlimited fun, Tromso in Norway is the place to be. During the winter months you'll have the chance to witness the Northern Lights, something every traveller dreams of seeing. Offering an urban vibe, enjoy meeting and mingling with the locals, taking part in their festive celebrations, and dining in their many cafes and restaurants that offer a warm yet welcoming and vibrant vibe.
DESTINATIONS
CANADA LAKE LOUISE, ALBERTA 4.371 M + THE FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE
Alberta is a province in Western Canada and is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Banff National Park, the beautiful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Offering one of Canada’s most photographed natural environments, in addition to opulent lodging and dining, this must visit is truly a breathtaking site with plenty of adventures for those looking to enjoy luxury and snow. Complete with custom-made ice castles and a breathtaking expanse of ice skating opportunity, enjoy the stunning Lake Louise up front or from the warm indoors as you dine in style.
AUSTRIA OBERLÄNGENFELD, AUSTRIA 4,611 + AQUA DOME
Looking for a perfect escape during winter season in Austria? The Aqua Domes is probably one of the most awesome places you could ever visit in Austria. Nestled in the breath-taking nature of the Ötztal valley, surrounded by the serene majesty of the mountains,
an
atmosphere
that
lends
wellness as a new dimension stands. Enjoy a unique world of thermal baths and saunas after a day out enjoy winter wander activities suck as skiing, hiking and more!
#HASHTAGS TO FOLLOW WHEN TRAVELLING With the current situation, lockdown could happen at anytime, with little to no warning. For those who are travelling, it's best to stay alert and up to date of the situation in both the country you're visiting and your home town. To help you keep track of what's going on, we've provided you with 5 important #'s you should keep an eye on when travelling.
#STAYALERT #StayAlert is probably the most important hashtag to follow. We've got it on our list, but have you? A modern and current way for the government to warn social media users, if you're following #StayAlert you'll know the latest travel bans, rules, regulations and more. Easily keep up to date with what's going on around the world while you travel with this important hashtag.
#WEARAMASK In many countries, wearing a mask has now become law, especially when entering public places such as supermarkets, shopping centers and places of food and drink. Follow this hashtag to keep up to date with which countries have made wearing a mask mandatory and what public places require them. PAGE 39
#SOCIALDISTANCING A basic measure (2 meters) brought in at the start of the pandemic that aims to provide a safe distance between you and others outside of your household or support bubble. This means, when traveling through airports or even train stations we recommend paying close attention to one way queuing systems usually illustrated by arrows along the floor. Also try to keep distance from the many other members of the public you meet on a day to day basis to help stop the spread of Covid 19.
#WASHYOURHANDS An obvious one we know, but hygiene is very important at this time. It’s recommended to wash your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds regularly throughout the day. Times to wash your hands may be slightly out of the ordinary, for example, before and after using public transport or being in close proximity with others, however it's a must when there's a chance that you could have shared contact with a third party person or object such as a shopping trolley or hand rail.
#LOCKDOWN By now you're probably just like us, tired of seeing the word Lockdown, however, as much as we hate it, it's a hashtag we need to stay on top of incase of any sudden changes to the current rules and regulations, and yes, in case of another lockdown. Follow this hashtag to stay up to date, but also so you can see how others are coping with lockdown throughout the world.
PAGE 41
HEALTH TIPS
Your Mental Health Matters
BEATING WINTER & LOCKDOWN 1
EAT WELL Your brain needs a mix of nutrients in
order
function
to well,
stay just
healthy like
the
and other
organs in your body. A diet that’s good
for
your
physical
health
is
also good for your mental health.
2
KEEP ACTIVE Regular exercise (whether in doors or
outdoors)
esteem
can
and
boost
can
your help
selfyou
concentrate, sleep, and feel better. Exercise keeps the brain and your other also
vital a
organs
significant
healthy, benefit
and
is
towards
improving your mental health.
KEEP IN TOUCH 3
There’s
nothing
better
than
catching up with someone face to face, but that’s not always possible especially
with
the
current
situation. You can also give them a call, drop them a note, or chat to them online instead. Keep the lines of communication open: it’s good for you!
PAGE 42
HEALTH TIPS
Your Mental Health Matters
BEATING WINTER & LOCKDOWN 4
GET PLENTY OF SLEEP Sleep
is
really
important
for
our
physical and mental health. Sleep helps to regulate the chemicals in our brain that transmit information. These
chemicals
are
important
in
managing our moods and emotions. If we don't get enough sleep, we can
start
to
feel
depressed
or
anxious.
5
ASK FOR HELP One of the most important ways to keep yourself mentally healthy is to recognise when you're not feeling good, and to know when to ask for help.
There's
someone feeling
no
for
low
or
shame
support stressed.
in
asking
if
you're
Everyone
goes through patches where they don't feel as good as they should. You
can
try
speaking
to
your
friends or family, or if you think your mental health is getting on top of you then you can seek professional advice.
GET SUPPORT FROM THE NHS MENTAL HEALTH HOTLINE If you need help during a mental health crisis or emergency, NHS urgent mental health helplines provides 24-hour advice and support - for you, your child, your parent or someone you care for. Simply call to speak to a mental health professional and avail of an assessment to help decide on the best course of care. Visit here.
THE MAN IN SEAT 1A A DIFFERENT TAKE ON THE WORLD NABEEL SHARIFF It's Christmas Eve tomorrow. Exactly one year
History has taught us that positivity and
ago, we had the freedom and right to travel to
kindness can emerge from catastrophes.
one of the 195 countries on Earth. Today, we
After the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, a
can only travel to two from these shores.
woman named Anna Amelia Holshouser was
For dramatic build up, I'm not including Wales
forced to camp out with a friend. Holshouser
and Scotland here. But as I write this, I just
made a makeshift tent out of fabric scraps
received an email to say the Seychelles were
that provided shelter for 22 people, many of
ceasing UK arrivals into their blissful paradise
whom were children, and started a tiny soup
until at least the end of January. Instead of
kitchen that soon grew to feed 200-300
another sigh at the chaos COVID-19 has
people daily. This example, albeit localised to
brought to 2020, it reinforced the one
the event, shows how a change in your path
question I've had most of this year; how did we
can lead to new possibilities. So what are
get here?
your possibilities in 2021?
In less than 12 months, travel, as well as
Anna
hundreds of sectors have been brought to a
available to her to build something not only
halt. There are multiple reasons of course and
for herself, but for hundreds of people
with hindsight, disruption could have been
around her. Her example led to other skilled
handled better. But we are here, in this
and displaced residents doing the same
moment and we have to pull together to find
thing and offering their skills to help rebuild.
solutions.
There is no doubt for many of us, we need to
Holshouser
used
the
rebuild after 2020, so here's to
resources
pulling
together and helping each other get back on track.
PAGE 45