Cultural diversity off the African coast TRAVEL GUIDE
An authentic Aegean adventure awaits TRAVEL GUIDE
CRETE
More than just a vacation, a trip to Charlevoix is reminiscent of entering a sumptuous new world, filled with an unrivalled array of nature, art, culture, and gastronomy
JAY CLUE SHOWCASES SUPERB MARINE PHOTOGRAPHY THAT INSPIRES PEOPLE TO ADOPT A PROACTIVE STANCE ON MARINE CONSERVATION
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EDITORIAL
Head of Editorial: Jack Salter jack.salter@outpb.com
Deputy Head of Editorial: Lucy Pilgrim lucy.pilgrim@outpb.com
Welcome to our 19th edition of Outlook Travel magazine.
At this festive time of year, our latest issue is decorated with dazzling destinations from across the world, including the enticing Canadian region of Charlevoix.
Known as one of the premium vacation spots in Québec, Charlevoix is filled with an unrivalled array of nature, art, culture, and gastronomy.
It also promises to provide an authentic and enriching experience at any time of year, with the region standing out as an inspiring all-seasons destination.
“We encourage people to get active during the winter months and enjoy the range of sporting activities and natural tourist attractions that the region offers,” shares Mitchell Dion, General Director of Tourisme Charlevoix.
“Then, once spring arrives as a more transitionary time, we really see it as a period where you can just relax, recharge your batteries, and connect with nature. All of the seasons bring a variety of monumental advantages for us.”
For perennial sunshine, meanwhile, Cabo Verde is the jagged and spirited neighbour of West Africa whose beaches have a reputation for being amongst the best in the world.
“Fly to our islands and enjoy the sun, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters 365 days a year on the islands of Sal, Boa Vista, and Maio,” recommends Minister of Tourism and Transport, Dr Carlos Jorge Duarte Santos.
Across all 10 of the country’s volcanic islands, there are also several carnivals and festivals to immerse yourself in throughout the year.
Mauritius is another all-seasons destination, with a mild climate, agreeable average temperatures, and crystal-clear waters suitable for swimming, snorkelling, diving, and kayaking all year round.
There’s something for everyone whenever you decide to visit Mauritius, as this culturally diverse Pearl of the Indian Ocean also offers a variety of experiences beyond sun, sand, and sea.
“Tourists visiting Mauritius can look forward to a diverse range of exciting upcoming events throughout the year,” shares Lindsay Morvan, Director of the Mauritius Tourism Authority.
Alongside these all-seasons adventures, consider our Crete, Hvar, Sint Eustatius, and Limpopo travel guides for your 2025 itinerary.
Enjoy your read and happy travels!
Jack Salter Head of Editorial, Outlook Publishing
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06 NEWS
Around the world in seven stories…
08 BEHIND THE LENS
Sustaining Earth’s seascapes
18 ROUND UP: ‘PAWSOME’ DESTINATIONS AROUND THE GLOBE
Responsible activities and sustainable experiences
160 THE LAST STOP
Croatia’s city of beaches
A unique and spectacular Canadian locale EUROPE 50 CRETE
92 CABO VERDE
An infectiously joyous atmosphere
110 MAURITIUS
The land of legends and myths NORTH AMERICA 36 CHARLEVOIX
Cultural diversity off the African coast
126 LIMPOPO
An authentic Aegean adventure awaits 68 HVAR
A blend of natural Croatian beauty and cultural allure
CARIBBEAN
82 SINT EUSTATIUS
The heart of the Dutch Caribbean
FEATURES 142 ROME
The beating heart of Italy
148 A CHANGING LANDSCAPE
Exploring the impact of tourism on tradition and tribes 154 WORLD TRAVEL MARKET LONDON – WHERE CULTURES COLLIDE A globetrotter’s dream
REVIVING THE WELSH LANGUAGE
SET TO BE the first country in the UK to introduce a nationwide tourist tax, Wales is anticipating the implementation of regional levies by 2027.
Traditionally, popular tourist countries utilise tax earnings to fund projects, revitalise destinations, or further diversify the economy. However, Wales is planning to use this extra income to protect one of the country’s most unique elements – its national language.
The estimated £33 million raised from the tourist tax will be used alongside the government’s Cymraeg 2050 plan, which aims to have a million Welsh speakers by 2050.
CRUISE PASSENGERS GO ON HUNGER STRIKE
HAVING SET SAIL on an intended 21-day voyage across the Antarctic, with stops at iconic sites including Elephant Island, Heroina Island, Brown Bluff, D’Urville Monument, and Deception Island, the SH Diana has instead cut its journey short after suffering unexpected engine failure. Slowly inching towards Ushuaia, ACCOMMODATION
FIRST TREEHOUSE HOTEL TO OPEN IN CALIFORNIA
BRANCHING INTO THE US hospitality market, SH Hotels & Resorts is opening the Treehouse Hotel Silicon Valley in Sunnyvale, California, in spring 2025.
Set to debut with 111 rooms, the treetop escape will feature an outdoor heated pool, 7,000 square feet of event space, and complimentary bike access.
The company conceptualised the treehouse hotel idea in 2019 with the opening of the Treehouse Hotel London, which saw immediate success.
SH Hotels & Resorts’ unique accommodations were inspired by childlike wonder, utilising ideas such as adventure, independence, cosy spaces, and creating an aura of warmth for its guests.
Argentina, to undergo repairs, passengers are furious about this abbreviated expedition. So much so, that a small number have reportedly staged a hunger strike in protest as an attempt to recoup their financial losses.
The company in charge of the ship, Swan Hellenic, has offered a 50 percent refund or 65 percent future cruise credit to passengers onboard, however, many are still very displeased.
VISA-FREE SCHEME IN CHINA EXPANDS
IN AN ATTEMPT to boost tourism, China is rapidly expanding its visa-free travel programme, with eight more European countries recently added to its list.
With the addition of Bulgaria, Romania, Malta, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Estonia, and Latvia,
RECORD-BREAKING TRAM IN GERMANY
CARRYING 368 PASSENGERS and travelling at a speed of 80 kilometres per hour, the world’s longest tram has made its debut on a line connecting three cities in the southwest of Germany, travelling between the Rhine-Neckar Metropolitan Region, Manheim, Ludwigshafen, and Heidelberg.
Measuring more than 58 metres from end to end, the tram was manufactured by Czechia’s Škoda Group and delivered to Mannheim in September 2024.
38 European countries are now permitted to enter China visa-free from the 30th November 2024 until the 31st December 2025.
Due to the severely decreased number of visitors to the country as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, China is looking to increase travel to the nation for both business and tourism purposes alongside promoting exchanges between Chinese citizens and foreign nationals.
The tram will serve as a metropolitan train and travel along both urban and inter-city routes, making it an excitement for both locals and tourists alike.
LISBON CELEBRATES NEW AWARD STATUS
TOURISM FOR THE FIRST time in its storied history, Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, has been awarded the World’s Leading Heritage City Destination at the 31st annual World Travel Awards held on the island of Madeira.
With Lisbon’s recent focus on the rehabilitation and preservation of cultural landmarks, the city is being rightfully recognised as a place of immense cultural heritage with beauty and appeal that are second to none.
The Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, has stated that the city is a symbol of authenticity, excellence, and modernity, and a place where historical and cultural wealth blends with constant innovation.
TRANSPORT
REVOLUTIONISING TRAVEL IN SOUTHEAST ASIA
CONNECTING
THE VIETNAMESE cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, the country is in the process of developing a new high-speed rail (HSR) to revolutionise travel.
Having been approved by the National Assembly in late November 2024, the HSR is anticipated to have far-reaching implications for travellers and the tourism industry nationwide.
It will cost approximately USD$67 billion and ultimately reduce the 30-hour journey between the two cities to a mere five hours.
For business professionals and tourists alike, this reduced travel time represents a monumental shift and will connect 23 stations across 20 cities and provinces, enhancing accessibility across the north-south corridor.
BEHIND THE LENS
Showcasing superb marine photography that inspires people to adopt a proactive stance on marine conservation, Jay Clue shares some of his most exciting and breathtaking work
Writer: Lily Sawyer | Photography: Jay Clue
Award-winning travel photographer and writer, Jay Clue, has a deep passion for marine conservation and sustainable tourism.
Through captivating storytelling and stunning visuals, Clue endeavours to bring the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet to people across the globe in the hope of inspiring them to take action, with a portfolio spanning underwater, aerial, wildlife, adventure travel, nightscape, and conservation photography.
His impressive work has graced the pages of National Geographic, Time Magazine, and many more, whilst he has collaborated with renowned brands such as Sony, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), and the Discovery Channel.
Beyond commercial projects, Clue shares his expertise by teaching photography workshops, spearheading conservation initiatives, and orchestrating unique ocean wildlife expeditions across the globe.
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, what drew you to work in travel photography?
Jay Clue (JC): I originally picked up my first camera to capture some of the expeditions we were working on at Dive Ninja, a PADI 5-star dive centre in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
I wanted to show the world that sustainable ocean tourism could do great things whilst giving guests frontrow seats to incredible ocean encounters. This drew me into the world of conservation storytelling right from the beginning.
As I worked to improve as a photographer, I started to see people who had never been diving or in the ocean asking questions and becoming curious about marine life. So, I had this quick realisation of just how powerful a tool photography could be for both conservation and storytelling. It merged my long-standing passion for protecting the ocean with a new passion for photography and storytelling – and I was hooked!
I found myself putting endless hours into trying to become a better photographer so I could attempt to capture the beauty and wonder of the ocean as my eyes saw it in hope it would inspire others to take action to preserve it.
Jay Clue
OT: What most excites you about travel photography?
JC: There’s something really magical about capturing a millisecond in time and utilising that to transport others there. Plus, you get to experience a destination through the eyes of the local communities that are so excited to show you the beauty of their home.
Watching how people get excited when they’re telling
you about a place that’s special to them gives me this feeling of purpose. I want to do my best to capture a natural place in a way that shows the emotion it brings not just to tourists, but the local communities tied to that area.
OT: On the flip side, what are the biggest challenges?
JC: One of the biggest challenges of being on the road so
much is that it’s a bit of a double-edged sword.
On one hand, we get to see so much of the world and experience so many incredible things, but on the flip side, we are rarely ever home and are always in motion.
At times, it begins to feel a bit ephemeral. You reach a new destination and make new acquaintances who become your best friends for the week, then before you
know it, you’re on the other side of the world doing it all over again.
OT: How would you describe your style of photography?
JC: I’d say it’s a mixture of creative storytelling and photojournalism. I try to capture not only the beauty of our planet but also the emotion its natural wonders bring us so
that it tells a story and helps transport the viewer there.
I also love being able to write stories and articles about my experiences behind the photos, as well as weaving in the positive strides people are taking towards preserving our planet.
I feel like we live in a time where we are inundated with doom and gloom. So, by showcasing stories of what others are doing, we can show that there is hope and inspire others to take steps to get involved.
OT: What has been one of your favourite destinations to capture?
JC: That’s a tough one! There’s been so many. I loved chasing the aurora borealis in Yellowknife, Canada,
freediving with schools of thousands of mobula rays in Baja, Mexico, capturing the unique desert landscapes of Utah at night, photographing sperm whales in Dominica, or teaching divers about how incredible oceanic manta rays are whilst diving with them in the Revillagigedo archipelago. Honestly, the list could go on, and I couldn’t just pick one!
OT: Have you been involved in any interesting projects recently that you’d like to highlight?
JC: I’ve been lucky to have been involved in some incredible assignments this year. The first that comes to mind was a recent shoot for PADI and Six Senses Resorts in the Maldives.
It was incredible to see the significant conservation and community outreach work Six Senses Resorts is doing. They have this remarkable lab in the resort with marine scientists working on all different aspects of research, from protecting sea turtles to better understanding manta rays and working with local fisheries to help make fishing more sustainable in their area.
Plus, they always bring local school children to the research centre to let them experience the lab and learn about the ocean, essentially helping to create the next generation of ocean guardians and scientists.
OT: Finally, what’s next for the future? Are there any new destinations you’d like to cross off your bucket list?
JC: Currently, I’m wrapping up a project in Egypt before heading to the Philippines to work on a project with Atlantis Dive Resorts.
After that, I’m off to guest host a liveaboard trip in Raja Ampat, Indonesia, for Dive Ninja to finish up 2024. Upon my return to the US, I’ll be on a mission to launch my new online store for selling limited edition art prints of my photos and working on pitches and projects to fill in 2025.
As for the places I’d like to cross off my bucket list – there are so many! I love working with tourism boards and local
operators to capture the spirit of their destinations and tell their stories – especially those involved in sustainable travel, marine conservation, and astrotourism. But if I had to pick my top project wishes right now, it would be Northern Canada to encounter polar bears, the Azores, Antarctica, and Malpelo Island in Colombia.
HOW I GOT THIS PHOTO :
JC: I flew to Florida during the 2021 unusual mortality event in which over 10 percent of the area’s manatee population perished in one year.
It was a heartbreaking trip and one that I put a lot of pressure on myself to capture. I really wanted to tell the story of what was happening to these gentle creatures.
On the last day, we were snorkelling in murky green water just as the sun was breaking the horizon. As I was taking the shot, all of a sudden, I felt something tug on my leg from below. I look down to see a young manatee calf wrapped around my leg. As our eyes met, she let go and began swimming towards the surface.
The first rule of wildlife photography is you never touch animals, so I immediately move back, trying to give her space to swim past me. But instead of swimming away, the young calf turns to face me and wraps her front fins around me as if trying to hug me.
I remember looking into her eyes for a fleeting moment, where time felt like it had just stopped. She then let go and swam off to reunite with her mother, who was just beside us. In a way, it felt like she was saying thank you.
PAWSOME DESTINATIONS AROUND THE GLOBE
EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND, UK
Named the UK’s most dog-friendly tourist location in 2021 due to its green spaces and pet-friendly pubs, restaurants, and accommodations, Edinburgh is an unmatched location to holiday with your beloved fluffy friend.
We have a look at some of the most pet-friendly places to visit on your next holiday with your furry friend
Writer: Lauren Kania
Have a ‘pawsitively’ amazing time exploring the many pet-friendly parks that are idyllic throughout every season, tour 900 years of history at St Giles’ Cathedral, and sample your way through The Secret Distillery’s world-famous gin, where you can drink with your four-legged friend by your side. Catch a good night’s sleep at the many hotels and B&Bs that offer accommodation for your pet, and partake in some window shopping during the day to discover all of the storefronts that cater directly to your loyal companion.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, US
Located in the heart of the Midwest, Chicago offers Windy City pooches and their humans the chance to enjoy pet-friendly breweries, bakeries, beaches, sports bars, and more. This lakeside city has multiple boat tours with dogfriendly experiences, and even the Gangsters and Ghosts Tours allows people and their pets to learn more about the city’s sordid and theatrical history by walking through the Vice District.
In the warmer months, Montrose Dog Beach lets pets splash in the water and offers free waste bags and a dog wash area to ensure every pet comes back clean, happy, and tired from a long day of fun. End the day perfectly by going to the city’s oldest frozen custard shop to treat yourself to a scoop and your pet to a free pup cone.
LAKE DISTRICT, CUMBRIA, UK
In the Lake District, those with four legs and fur are just as welcome as their human counterparts. With second-to-none pet-friendly accommodations throughout the region, the Lake District is known as the pet capital of the UK. Offering everything from glamping to historic inns, the beloved scenery is ideal for those who want to spend their holiday with their best friend by their side.
Exploring the countryside and trekking the neverending coastline is one of the best ways to spend time with your furry friend. Wander stunning walks, such as The Coniston Round, where you can take in all the natural beauty as your pet happily explores all the best sniffing spots. You can even board one of the Windermere Lake Cruises, where well-behaved dogs are allowed to go onboard for free.
KEY WEST, FLORIDA, US
Whilst Florida is known for its abundant collection of weird and quirky native animals, Key West, in particular, is famous for its wild six-toed cats who rule the city with an iron paw. However, the sunshine-laden city is still welcome to other types of four-legged friends, with dogs able to join travellers on snorkelling trips, dolphin charters, and tours of the nearly century-old Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden.
Leashed dogs are also invited to accompany their owners for an adventure through the local aquarium, where you can both enjoy live shark feedings, alligator exhibits, rescue turtles, and more. Dip your feet – and paws – in the salty waters of the plethora of pet-friendly beaches and finish off your day by watching the sunset at one of the many restaurants that cater to you and your adorable pooch.
SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND
If you and your fur baby are the outdoor adventuring types, the Swiss Alps are the ideal destination for your next trip. The fresh mountain air and lush scenery make for perfect hiking and trekking conditions, allowing you and your pet to experience all the sights and smells of the mountain paths, nature parks, and forest trails.
Switzerland is regarded as a very pet-friendly country, with dogs allowed on public transportation – free of charge if they are inside a pet carrier or a half-fare ticket if on a leash. For dining, you can assume that dogs are welcome unless a sign specifically says otherwise, allowing doting pet parents to enjoy the decadence of traditional fondue with their furry companion nestled by their side.
PORTLAND, OREGON, US
Portland is proud to be one of the most pet-friendly destinations in the US, with myriad dog and cat-friendly hotels around every corner. Not only is the city known for its eclectic and award-winning food scene, but many restaurants allow you to enjoy the gastronomic experience with your best friend beside you, even offering a pet menu so you can both indulge in awardwinning dishes. You can even find breweries that let you sample some homebrew while your pet basks in the sunny rays. The city boasts stunning parks and trails for you and your furry companion to explore, and the ocean and mountains are only a short drive away.
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
If you are looking for a cat-centric vacation, Amsterdam is the place to be. Well documented for its love of cats, the city is abundant with feline-filled attractions and accommodations for you and your ‘purrfect’ friend. The many bike paths and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to traverse around the city with your cat in tow, and there are a variety of feline-themed cafes and shops for you to enjoy and spoil your pet with. Don’t miss out on the world-famous Catboat – a floating sanctuary that has been providing a home for stray and abandoned cats since 1966. Be sure to book tickets to explore the KattenKabinet – a museum dedicated to all things cat and founded in 1990 by a wealthy Dutchman to honour his beloved ginger tom cat, JP Morgan.
TRAVEL BUSINESS TITANIC
BELFAST
Over a century on from one of the most infamous shipwrecks in history, Titanic Belfast has become a major tourist attraction in Northern Ireland. We set sail and immerse ourselves in the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience with Chief Executive, Judith Owens MBE
WRITER: JACK SALTER
Titanic was the largest and most luxurious ship of its time.
Launched in 1911 at the Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast, Northern Ireland, many believed the vessel was unsinkable thanks to its 16 watertight compartments, which were designed to keep it afloat if damaged.
However, on 15th April 1912, Titanic infamously sunk only four days into its maiden voyage from Southampton, England to New York, US after striking an iceberg in the North Atlantic Ocean, sadly taking the lives of around 1,500 passengers and crew members that were onboard.
Titanic has captured the imagination for over a century and played a prominent role in popular culture, with the deadly disaster inspiring numerous books, plays, films, songs, poems, and works of art.
It also quickly became a catalyst for change, leading to new ship designs, safety regulations, maritime laws, international treaties, and more.
Marking 100 years since the disaster, Titanic Belfast opened on 31st March 2012 and sits at the top of the
historic slipways where the vessel was built and launched.
As a world-leading tourist attraction, Titanic Belfast celebrates the maritime heritage and industrial past of the Northern Irish capital.
“Belfast is truly the most authentic place to discover the story of this world-famous ship – it was Titanic’s home, and still is,” opens Chief Executive, Judith Owens MBE.
“Telling its authentic story is the only way to properly celebrate the hard work and ambition of those who designed and built the ship and to respectfully pay tribute to her passengers and crew.”
EMOTIVE EXPERIENCE
Titanic Belfast was a game-changer for Northern Ireland, which was emerging from years of conflict, as it delivered a step-change in tourism for the country.
A signature project that came out of the Good Friday Agreement, there is no doubt that Titanic Belfast has played a key role in the resurgence of tourism since opening in 2012, not only for Belfast and Northern Ireland but the island of Ireland as a whole.
“We believe that Titanic’s truth needs a guardian. Telling the authentic story is the only way to properly celebrate the hard work and ambition of those who designed and built the ship and respectfully pay tribute to her passengers and crew”
Many multi-generational families and groups visit Titanic Belfast, from young children learning about the ship in school for the first time to their grandparents who perhaps had links to the shipyard.
To date, it has welcomed more than eight million visitors from over 145 different countries, changing the tourism footprint of Northern Ireland and opening the destination to international visitors.
“It has proven to be a shining example of how a significant tourism investment, combined with passion and belief, can be a catalyst for economic growth and help positively position a destination on the worldwide stage,” Owens enthuses.
“Only here in Belfast can you experience the authentic maritime heritage of the area in which Titanic was designed, built, and launched.”
Indeed, the Titanic Experience delivers an enriched and emotive journey, offering the authentic Titanic story alongside an original maritime heritage collection, with artefacts including Wallace Hartley’s violin, launch day tickets, the last lunch menu enjoyed by first-class passengers, a lifejacket and deck chair from the ship, and many other fascinating items of cultural and historical interest.
The self-guided experience, which extends over nine interactive galleries, tells the story of Titanic from conception through to her construction, launch, famous
maiden voyage, and tragic end, allowing you to explore the shipyard, walk the decks and historic slipways, and travel to the depths of the ocean.
Visitors can also step onboard SS Nomadic, the tender to Titanic and the last remaining White Star Line vessel in the world.
“Titanic Belfast is committed to celebrating the city’s maritime heritage and the people who built Titanic, whilst commemorating those who lost their lives during the tragic sinking,” outlines Owens.
“We work hard to ensure that we are sympathetic towards the story, show respect of those who have family ties with Titanic, and ensure our building and the surrounding area remain a place where those lost at sea can be remembered respectfully.”
IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGY
The Titanic Experience combines this authenticity and heritage with immersive technology to bring the story of the vessel to life.
Just like the designers who created the ship, Titanic Belfast continually innovates how it tells her story and finds ways to capture the imagination.
“Dreaming big, exploring new ways to overcome challenges, and then doing what has never been done before is in Titanic’s DNA,” Owens tells us.
“However, I believe that innovation isn’t always about doing
the newest thing or using the latest technology. For me, it’s about using existing technology in a way that hasn’t been done before.”
For example, during a recent £4.7 million refurbishment undertaken to reimagine the latter part of the Titanic Experience, projectors had to be hidden in artefact cases so they wouldn’t be seen by guests.
Titanic Belfast also had to create a bespoke shock absorber system so that the projectors would not shake as visitors descended the stairs.
“It’s the little innovations that lead to an immersive guest experience,” she adds.
At the time the business was planning its refresh project, virtual reality (VR) was the new technology everyone was looking at utilising in attractions.
However, VR didn’t necessarily create the immersive and emotional connections that Titanic Belfast wanted for guests, whilst also allowing it to deliver the high-capacity daily visitor numbers it needed to maintain in the busy summer season.
“You could say we disrupt the norm as we don’t always follow industry trends or what others are doing. Instead, we look at what’s right for us, our experience, and what guests want,” notes Owens.
WORLD-CLASS SPECTACLE
The Titanic Experience reopened in March 2023 following the refurbishment, which saw three of its existing galleries transformed into four themed spaces that shed new light on Titanic’s story.
OUTLOOK TRAVEL: HOW ARE YOU DRIVING FEMALE LEADERSHIP FORWARDS AT TITANIC BELFAST?
Judith Owens MBE, Chief Executive: “Empowering women in leadership roles has been a deliberate part of my leadership strategy at Titanic Belfast as I believe that diverse perspectives, particularly gender diversity, lead to more innovative and resilient organisations.
“Across the business, we are committed to developing future leaders from within, ensuring our staff have access to the tools and support they need to grow into senior roles, including mentorship programmes, targeted training, and personal development plans. We’ve empowered women to pursue leadership roles without sacrificing other aspects of their lives.
“By ensuring women are represented at the highest levels of our leadership team, we’ve sent a clear message that gender is not a barrier to success. This has created a sense of aspiration and empowerment amongst other women in the organisation, inspiring them to pursue their own leadership paths.
“Additionally, having a female-led leadership team has enhanced our reputation, demonstrating our commitment to equality and making us a more attractive employer for top talent.”
“Only here in Belfast can you experience the authentic maritime heritage of the area in which Titanic was designed, built, and launched”
A new theme, ‘The Pursuit of Dreams’, was also introduced, along with a stunning new artefact collection and an illuminated 7.6-metre-long scale model of Titanic, which rotates in sync with state-of-the-art projections.
It additionally showcases never-before-heard stories of the hopes and dreams of passengers, a collection of artefacts being displayed in Northern Ireland for the first time, and a musical score that beautifully encapsulates the stories and emotions throughout.
“This was Titanic Belfast’s biggest single investment and most ambitious project since opening in 2012,” acclaims Owens.
“The aim was to deliver a world-class spectacle by combining innovative technology with the authentic and emotive stories from Titanic. It will ensure we continue to drive visitors to Belfast and Northern Ireland, push boundaries, and stay at the forefront of the industry.”
Next year marks the 40th anniversary of the ship’s discovery by Dr Robert Ballard, a significant milestone
TITANIC QUARTER
Titanic Belfast has inspired £60 million of wider heritage preservation across Titanic Quarter.
A thriving and bustling destination on the Maritime Mile, Titanic Quarter is building Belfast’s future amongst the inspiring legacy of its maritime and industrial past.
It is now home to major TV and film productions, cutting-edge R&D, visitor attractions, and one of Europe’s largest urban waterfront regeneration projects.
in the Titanic story and one that was included in the new spaces of the reimagined Titanic Experience.
Ballard’s Quest explores the incredible top-secret US Navy mission that the renowned oceanographer undertook to locate the wreck 73 years after it sank, where his inspiration came from, and the challenges and solutions of covering such a large area in a short space of time.
Following the refresh, Titanic Belfast won the THEA Award for Outstanding Achievement – Visitor Experience Re-envisioned: Limited Budget in Hollywood from the
Themed Entertainment Association (TEA), which represents the world’s leading creators, developers, designers, and producers of compelling places and experiences from around the world.
ENGAGED WORKFORCE
As well as innovating and renovating the Titanic Experience, a substantial digital transformation is currently underway at Titanic Belfast as it continually adapts behind the scenes.
“This will improve the customer experience when interacting with us in a digital environment, increase efficiency in our processes, and foster a continued sense of innovation across our team,” Owens highlights.
Titanic Belfast likewise fosters a culture of learning, development, collaboration, and inclusivity to ensure its 375 members of staff feel they are valued and have a voice.
The Great Place to Work accreditation that Titanic Belfast was certified with earlier this year is a measure of this excellent workplace culture, and a testament to the value it places on feedback to ensure employees are happy.
“We also recognise the importance of having a work-life balance, create a culture that supports both career development and personal well-being, and have developed various initiatives to support retention and grow a culture of purpose amongst staff,” expands Owens.
“As an employer, Titanic Belfast is committed to creating an engaged workforce. We support career development, strive to promote from within, and provide great employee benefits.
“It is fantastic that our teams recognise this as, from day one, they have played an important part of our success and are central to the 5-star visitor experience we provide for our guests from around the world,” she continues.
PASSION FOR ACCESSIBILITY
Accessibility and inclusion, meanwhile, have always been personal passions of Owens, who has been fortunate to work with many disability organisations over the past 20 years.
Titanic Belfast continuously works to lead the way in creating an accessible and inclusive visitor attraction for all.
“We want to make sure that when visitors with additional needs plan a trip, they have the same opportunities as everyone else to enjoy their time making memories with family, friends, and loved ones,” assures Owens.
“From the original construction of our architecturally unique building right through to the recent refreshment of the Titanic Experience, accessibility and inclusion have been key considerations.”
Indeed, all general access and circulation spaces inside and outside Titanic Belfast are accessible, with lowered counters and hearing loops on ticketing desks, varied lighting levels, stairs, lifts, escalators, and accessible toilets throughout.
Significant contributions are also made on an ongoing
basis by Titanic Belfast as part of its diversity and inclusion strategy, having invested £200,000 in the last year to introduce a Changing Places facility for those with more complex needs and new British Sign Language and audio-described multi-media guides, which are available in numerous languages.
“We also strive to reflect diverse perspectives in our storytelling, ensuring it resonates with a broad, international audience,” Owens emphasises.
Titanic Belfast additionally offers free carer tickets to any paying guest that requires essential assistance to visit, as well as aids such as sensory guides, wristbands, ear defenders, and blackout tents for those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
“We are really proud to be recognised across the tourism industry as a leader in accessibility standards, but are always continually working to further develop this and ensure our visitors’ access requirements are not only met, but exceeded.”
It also has a long-standing partnership with Orchardville, a charity that supports young people with additional needs to help upskill them for the workplace and find continued employment.
Through this initiative, Titanic Belfast has recruited several staff members who work as part of its team on an ongoing basis.
“For us, inclusion is not just about making Titanic Belfast accessible for our guests, but for our staff too,” Owens acknowledges.
POSITIVE IMPACT
Titanic Belfast evidently understands the importance of having a lasting and positive impact on the people and area in which it operates.
For example, 45p of every adult ticket purchased is allocated to a dedicated Titanic Belfast Community Impact Fund, which supports various initiatives and makes the attraction accessible to those who may face financial or social barriers.
“We are very proud of the work we are doing through the fund. In its inaugural year, it supported varied outreach activities including sponsorship of Co-Operation Ireland’s Future Leaders Programme, a school transport bursary providing free buses for 15 school visits from deprived areas, and a significant contribution to the heritage restoration of SS Nomadic.”
Donations have also been made to ‘Changing the Menu. For Good’, a project supporting homelessness and food poverty outreach in Belfast.
Additionally, Titanic Belfast is in the final stages of the Bronze Diversity Mark accreditation, which is awarded to organisations who show a commitment to addressing gender diversity, and has sponsored Business in the Community’s Climate Action Programme, which aims to actively engage and educate businesses, inspiring them to take proactive steps towards climate action.
“Through this innovative initiative, four of our suppliers
were supported in completing Carbon Literacy training, certified by the Carbon Literacy Trust,” Owens informs us.
SAILING AHEAD
The tourism and hospitality sectors are ever-changing, and adaptability has been key to Titanic Belfast’s continued success.
“Sometimes, this means leading through challenges – from economic uncertainties to global events like the COVID-19 pandemic – which have underscored the importance of resilience,” Owens affirms.
“Fostering a mindset of continuous improvement and innovation has allowed us to balance short-term agility with long-term stability, ensuring Titanic Belfast continues to thrive.”
As a significant driver for Northern Ireland’s tourism industry, Titanic Belfast understands the importance of increasing visitation from across local, national, and international markets to ensure it is welcoming both firsttime and returning guests.
“2025 is an opportunity for those who have not yet visited Titanic Belfast to come and discover her full story from design to discovery,” Owens concludes.
Tel: +44 (0)28 9076 6386
titanicbelfast.com
ADVENTURE WITH A POSITIVE PURPOSE SUSTAINABILITY STORIES
Exodus Adventure Travels offers responsible activities and sustainable experiences by designing trips that minimise stress on oceans, the natural environment, and the wildlife and communities that inhabit these areas. We explore a positively impactful way to travel, guided by the company’s Head of Sustainability, Kasia Morgan
WRITER: RACHEL CARR
As the majority of people seek to discover diverse regions of the world, the travel and tourism industry has flourished significantly since the 1800s when the concept of holidays began to capture the public’s imagination.
Advancements in modes of transport have broadened destination choices, with a pivotal change shaping modern tourism in the early 1960s – the introduction of jetliners.
Once an exclusive pursuit of the wealthy, international travel is now more accessible than ever as budget
airlines, mobile apps, and online booking platforms have made travelling faster and more affordable. However, this increase in tourism has also negatively impacted the environment.
Half a century ago, Exodus Adventure Travels (Exodus) was founded to assist travellers in exploring far-flung countries, cultures, and environments across the globe.
The company emerged when two friends united in their quest to acquire an overland truck and embark on a journey to the Minaret of Jam, located deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, which made it the most inaccessible of the
world’s magnificent monuments.
“As we’ve expanded and evolved, we always remember that we’re only guests in the places we visit. Therefore, we travel courteously and respectfully in smaller groups to minimise our impact and make a conscious effort to support communities and protect nature in the destinations we explore,” introduces Kasia Morgan, Head of Sustainability at Exodus.
Many travel destinations are impacted by climate change, and Exodus acknowledges the carbon footprint associated with travel and tourism.
EXODUS’ ‘THRIVING NATURE AND THRIVING PEOPLE’ PHILOSOPHY
• A nature-positive approach: Seeking to minimise our negative impact on nature, such as carbon emissions and waste, engaging customers in biodiversity restoration, offering amazing naturebased experiences, offering Citizen Science Departures, and providing education around rewilding.
• Contributing to communities: Supporting local businesses and empowering underrepresented communities through employment during trips, as well as through the businesses, homes, and enterprises visited. Additionally, supporting cultural heritage by partnering with expert local tour leaders for cultural immersion.
• Exodus partnerships: Reinforcing in-trip efforts through support for nature, such as the partnership with Blue Marine Foundation with Exodus’ sister companies across the Travelopia Group. Together, they aim to support the conservation and restoration of 7,000ha of vital marine ecosystems through seven global projects.
“Our responsible practices are underpinned by our belief that we need to support people and nature to thrive in harmony – in the way we run our business, design our adventures, and contribute through our Foundation,” she continues.
A BLOOMING PROSPECT
Exodus operates with a nature-positive approach to address climate change and biodiversity loss by reducing negative impacts and promoting the restoration of nature.
A key aspect is measuring and minimising trip-related carbon emissions, including accommodation, food, and transportation.
As a more sustainable and enjoyable transport option, trains hold widespread appeal for many travellers. Thus, Exodus began a well-received collaboration with Byway, the first 100 percent flight-free travel platform.
“We launched our partnership with Byway as part of our climate action plan, and in response to a growing number of customers expressing a desire to travel by train to our adventures. While so far, the number of customers booking train travel to our trips is relatively small, this number is increasing each year.
“We understand that some travellers prefer to book their own train travel to our adventures. Therefore, to encourage this option, we share tips on how to do so on our website,” Morgan emphasises.
“Our responsible practices are underpinned by our belief that we need to support people and nature to thrive in harmony”
– KASIA MORGAN, HEAD OF SUSTAINABILITY, EXODUS ADVENTURE TRAVELS
Additionally, Exodus supports biodiversity restoration and carbon removal through partnerships with Rewilding Apennines and Blue Marine Foundation.
“When we take travellers to more fragile environments, such as the polar regions, we have an even greater responsibility to tread lightly. For instance, our polar expeditions are completely free from single-use plastics. We also contribute to local areas – our polar partners support Arctic communities, and we engage our customers in the importance of nature conservation.”
As part of its climate and biodiversity action plan, Exodus partnered with Rewilding Apennines in 2021 to support its goal of rewilding 5,000 hectares (ha) of the Italian Apennines over five years.
“We pursue our commitment by pledging to rewild 100 square metres (sqm) for every passenger travelling with us. The wild Italian landscapes are particularly close to our hearts and those of our customers,” she reveals emphatically.
Italy is a popular destination for active and outdoor holidays, and Rewilding Apennines has proven to be an expert partner in nature and wildlife restoration and carbon removal.
CULTIVATING A FLOURISHING FUTURE
The Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation was formed in 2019 in an effort to build on decades of global community projects and initiatives, to expand Exodus’ impact and enable its customers to contribute.
“After five years, we have updated the Foundation’s vision, mission, and focus to better align with our broader sustainability goal of contributing to ‘Thriving Nature and Thriving People’,” Morgan explains.
The vision of the Foundation is to create a world where all travel and tourism supports nature and communities thriving in harmony. Its mission, meanwhile, is to invest in innovative, sustainable tourism-related projects that help destination communities protect and regenerate the natural world
Long-term partnerships include the Foundation’s Free to Roam Project in Kenya, which collaborates with the Tsavo Trust to enhance infrastructure and educate communities, fostering peaceful coexistence between wildlife and people.
“We have established the Mountain Lioness Project in Tanzania, through which we have sponsored 30 women to obtain mountain guide licences, enabling them to lead
treks up Mount Kilimanjaro. Additionally, we fund several Community Kickstart initiatives each year, allowing local Exodus leaders and operators to apply for small grants that support grassroots community empowerment and conservation in their regions,” she explains.
Besides its essential existing work, the Foundation launched Citizen Science Departures in 2022. This initiative was developed in partnership with NatureMetrics and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to support the eBioAtlas project – a global effort to map various species.
Customers wishing to participate can assist by collecting environmental DNA samples from freshwater sources during selected Exodus trips using NatureMetrics eDNA kits.
“In 2024, we executed the programme across 13 trips worldwide, and adventurers had the opportunity to travel to a variety of regions across the globe to collect freshwater samples. These journeys included explorations deep into the dense rainforests of Costa Rica, expeditions across frozen lakes in Finland, and adventures along the Zambezi Valley in Zambia,” outlines Morgan.
Other notable trips that currently run Citizen Science Departures include Hidden Treasures of Jordan, Wildlife
and Wilderness of Botswana, Trek America: Canyons and National Parks, and Bulgaria: Realm of the Brown Bear, among others.
PROTECTION AND RESTORATION
Exodus’ animal welfare policy is based on the Association of British Travel Agents’ industry-leading guidelines, developed in conjunction with several veterinary scientists, experts, and travel industry representatives.
“We inform our customers about our policy through our website and encourage them to contact us if they notice any issues, violations, or infringements during our trips. They can reach us either through our general sustainability inbox or by sharing their feedback in our post-trip holiday evaluation forms,” Morgan imparts.
Any complaints related to animal welfare submitted through the forms are jointly reviewed and addressed by the company’s product and sustainability teams.
This process ensures that Exodus does not offer trips that involve harmful practices to animals, such as elephant riding or cetacean-based entertainment. Moreover, the website’s ‘Trip Notes’ section highlights where customers should avoid pursuing these experiences in their free time.
“We support various projects through our Foundation
MINIMISING IMPACT ON DESTINATION COMMUNITIES
Exodus ensures all parties have a positive experience by:
• Treading lightly – Small groups, often cycling or hiking, have a lower impact on local communities and cultural heritage.
• Respecting communities – Exodus pursues the protection of human rights across all trips and avoids disrespectful cultural experiences, with local leaders guiding customers on cultural respect and sensitivities.
• Supporting local businesses – In 2023, 87 percent of the meals provided during trips were enjoyed at locally owned restaurants, whilst locals also owned 92 percent of the accommodations included. Exodus has also incorporated minimum sustainability standards into supplier contracts, encouraging them to source their products locally.
• Going off the beaten track – Exodus is proud to take customers to lesser-travelled places, offer unique experiences, spread the economic benefit of travel, and avoid the negative impacts of overtourism.
• Listening to local communities – The Destination Community Council is a global group of supplier and leader partners that provides a representative voice and offers guidance to enhance sustainability and impact activities, ensuring benefits for destination communities.
• Providing disaster relief – In the unfortunate event that a disaster strikes any of Exodus’ key destinations, it seeks to mobilise funds through the Foundation, which has dependable and effective response partners on the ground.
“We have established the Mountain Lioness Project in Tanzania, through which we have sponsored 30 women to obtain mountain guide licences, enabling them to lead treks up Mount Kilimanjaro”
– KASIA MORGAN, HEAD OF SUSTAINABILITY, EXODUS ADVENTURE TRAVELS
which endeavour to protect animals, including our Tiger Habitat Project in India, where these majestic creatures are threatened by poaching and the encroachment of nearby villages onto their land.
“Furthermore, our Community Kickstart grants fund grassroots wildlife conservation initiatives across our destinations, such as whale shark conservation in the Maldives and anti-poaching support in various parts of Africa,” she expands.
Looking towards 2025, Exodus’ ‘Thriving Nature and Thriving People’ philosophy focuses on furthering how its itineraries benefit communities, promote biodiversity protection and restoration and engage customers into becoming a community of nature enthusiasts.
“Our efforts to reduce carbon emissions and waste remain central. We also look forward to the next chapter of our Foundation’s work, through which we will seek to deepen our impact on communities and the environment whilst increasing customer support. We have much to do and learn, but we are dedicated to our mission of supporting nature and people to thrive through travel,” Morgan concludes.
Charlevoix
Taking a trip to Charlevoix is more than just a vacation –it’s reminiscent of entering a sumptuous new world, filled with an unrivalled array of nature, art, culture, and gastronomy. For every variety of traveller, a magical experience awaits
WRITER: ED BUDDS | PROJECT MANAGER: KRISHA CANLAS
Located around an hour from Québec City, Canada, the enticing region of Charlevoix spans 6,000 square kilometres and boasts a unique terrain that was shaped by a meteorite 400 million years ago.
Known as one of the premium vacation destinations in Québec, Charlevoix invites tourists to take their time to enjoy a place that provides a total change of scenery yet also feels like home.
With its breathtaking natural setting, superb national parks, numerous sightseeing activities, and legendary hospitality, Charlevoix promises to provide an authentic and enriching experience at any time of year.
Shining as a prime destination of choice for those who can’t get enough of sports and the great outdoors, highoctane activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and skiing will get the hearts of adventure seekers pumping.
Meanwhile, various nature-related pursuits, including whale-watching, provide an opportunity to fully enjoy the unique fauna and flora of Charlevoix.
The region is also a hotspot for culinary delights and a must-visit destination for foodies and fans of agritourism, where you can enjoy local ingredients masterfully turned into bold, authentic dishes and indulge in a variety of high-quality cheeses, charcuterie meats, and a unique range of other local products made by passionate producers.
Simultaneously, art, culture, and heritage take centre stage in Charlevoix, as an array of workshops, galleries, boutiques, and museums offer different ways to explore this facet of the region.
Furthermore, Charlevoix’s luxuriating, tranquil nature makes it the perfect place for the ultimate relaxation between the river and mountains.
Filled with beauty and possibility, the region is often described as an escape for the soul and a haven for wellness. Sit back in a Nordic bath with a panoramic view, enjoy a well-deserved massage, or simply connect with the magnetic energy of the area.
Industry Insights
Tourisme Charlevoix
Tourisme Charlevoix is the one-stop shop for the best travel information, local recommendations, and holiday planning for anyone heading to the region. We speak to General Director, Mitchell Dion, about promoting Charlevoix as an all-seasons destination and how tourism can develop into a more sustainable industry in the future
MITCHELL DION
TOURISME CHARLEVOIX IS committed to making Charlevoix an eco-responsible destination, acting as
a driving force for this major collective shift, and prioritising sustainable development.
Additionally, the organisation ensures the implementation of promotional marketing and canvassing activities, such as various advertising campaigns and strategic alliances.
The association also works to manage a constantly evolving digital ecosystem and proactive press
relations, whilst remaining attentive to the various beneficial opportunities for the region, targeting the corporate market.
To ensure the protection of its exceptional natural resources, Tourisme Charlevoix is committed to supporting the development of the destination in a way that respects the community and its sustainable transition, whilst placing visitors, citizens, and the environment at
the centre of its initiatives. The organisation is also in the process of obtaining a Biosphere certification for the region.
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, can you talk us through the origins of Tourisme Charlevoix and its initial vision?
Mitchell Dion, General Director (MD): Tourisme Charlevoix was founded in
1975, so we will celebrate 50 years of existence next year.
At first, we were an organisation that had two main priorities. Firstly, there was the promotion of the region, and the other goal was to welcome tourists to our information office.
We eventually became an official regional tourism association, existing as the only non-profit organisation recognised by the Quebec Ministry of Tourism to represent the region’s tourism stakeholders and its issues. Today, we remain a private entity, but we receive a lot of funding and mandates from the provincial and federal governor.
OT: How has the organisation’s role evolved over time?
MD: Our role has changed a lot over the years, but we are still really active
in terms of promotion and welcoming tourists to the region. We now have five information offices and are currently focusing our attention on sustainable development.
Additionally, we changed our overall mission in 2023 to showcase Charlevoix alongside influencing and supporting its ongoing development. We also know that we cannot develop our destination without local people and are moving to a more sustainable form of tourism.
We now promote a vision of standing out as an inspiring allseasons destination that is committed to a sustainable shift through the synergy of its driving force and innovative ways of doing things. Every year, we receive more than a million tourists, but we only have a population of 30,000 people, so we have to make sure that our
future development aligns with the protection of local social and environmental aspects.
OT: What are Tourisme Charlevoix’s current goals?
MD: We’re now less concerned with increasing the number of tourists, but more focused on attracting higher quality tourism. Elsewhere, we also aim to increase the number of overnight stays across the region. Another one of our main goals is to stretch the different seasons. For example, during the high season in July and August, we have an occupancy rate that is between 70 and 80 percent, but if you arrive in January or February, it can go down to between 25 and 30 percent.
We are currently placing slightly less focus on promoting summer and instead working on a more annual basis to also highlight our intermediate and winter seasons.
We additionally look to maintain a high level of quality in terms of providing an unforgettable tourist experience. We are a destination that has 200 years of tradition for welcoming visitors, so sometimes it is necessary to reinvent ourselves and evolve.
OT: How do you promote all-seasons travel, such as during the winter months?
MD: We really want to capitalise on our all-season marketing shift. For us, winter is a magnificent tourist season. We encourage people to get active during the winter months and enjoy the range of sporting activities and natural tourist attractions that the region offers. Then, once spring arrives as a more transitionary time, we really see it as a period where you can just relax, recharge your batteries, and connect with nature. All of the seasons bring a variety of monumental advantages for us.
OT: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Charlevoix?
MD: Yes, I think that the tourism industry in Charlevoix has always been really important. We often say it provides close to 30 percent of the jobs that are available in the region.
With all our new actions regarding sustainable development, alongside the desire for visitors to be more responsible, every year we become more optimistic about the future.
Club Med is the perfect place to escape from normality and indulge in a premium vacation as the landscape erupts into a kaleidoscope of colour from April to December – an ideal, picturesque location for your yearly holidays.
Discovery awaits in Quebec, where rich nature, culture, and heritage are waiting to be explored. Club Med organises cultural excursions from the resort that make the most of this Canadian gem, including open air tours, Quebec city shuttles, and gourmet workshops – follow the cobblestone streets to discover your next adventure. Or, if an environmental getaway is for you, whale watching, black bear observation, and national park trips are available to become one with nature.
Uncover the array of sports and activities included throughout your vacation, mountain biking and hiking, and combine the spirit of competition with the pleasure of exercise.
Whether you reignite your love for team sports, feel the thrill on a mountain bike, or observe majestic wildlife from a kayak, activity awaits. At Club Med, variety is widespread and leisure is endless. Last summer, we put together our Elevation program, which will be reviewed for 2025. The programme includes the Epicurean Festival, where cuisine, music,
Club Med Quebec Charlevoix (Club Med), a premium all-inclusive resort, promises a serene experience in this pocket of Canadian paradise. Whether winter, spring, summer, or fall, we promise multiple seasonal offerings as our exclusive activities change with the calendar, with over 60 to choose from.
The resort’s natural surroundings are key to achieving tranquillity. Enjoy spa treatments, yoga, and hammam, relax where the river meets the mountains, and embrace utter bliss. A world of leisure awaits, offering you the opportunity to disconnect and return home recharged.
and nature converge, and the Wellness Fusion Festival, where you can embark on a journey of self-discovery with meditation, yoga, and wellness workshops in a serene setting.
HEAVENLY HOSPITALITY
The concept of all-inclusive was revolutionised by Club Med, whose gourmet food and drinks are prepared to suit both local and international palates. We are proud of the quality and freshness of our plates, as endless choice and varied cuisines are on offer across our restaurants.
Dreamlike rooms provide an immersive experience at our resort, complete with mountain or river views. Superior, Deluxe, and Exclusive accommodations are equipped with luxury amenities at guests’ disposal, furnished with deep hues and traditional Canadian elements. Soothing facilities in each room create cosy yet contemporary detail; our dreamcatcher headboard and fireside chair ensure a homely feel year-round.
We combine connection with enjoyment – the recipe for a perfect vacation. Our childcare facilities for all ages are dedicated to making your family escape dreamy and carefree. Baby, Petit, Mini, Teens, and Chill passes are tailored to your child and their needs.
At Club Med, everyone can enjoy utopia.
WINTER WONDERLAND
Whether you prefer to be nestled within the mountains enjoying unbeatable views or traversing the slopes on your skis, Club Med’s premium all-inclusive family ski resort will elevate your hibernal experience.
Our all-inclusive ski vacations include a Ski Pass, granting you access to the ski lifts and gondolas that take you to various mountain elevations.
As part of the all-inclusive experience, you can also enjoy ski or snowboard group lessons of all levels, available for both beginners and experienced skiers!
With our professional instructors from the local ski school and mountain guides on hand to ensure progress at any skill level, you’ll quickly master the slopes in no time. No matter the downhill pursuit, we equip for everyone!
Your ski equipment can also be ready upon arrival at the resort by accessing your customer account on our website and using the Facilitate Your Arrival service.
With a premium all-inclusive stay at Club Med, there’s nothing to worry about, as we’ve got everything covered for you and your family.
ALL-INCLUSIVE AUTUMN
As the landscape is overcome by fiery reds and oranges, embrace the changing colours of the leaves and become engrossed in autumn. Welcome the fall season by satisfying your culinary cravings our restaurant Le Chalet or touring the historical route around Baie-SaintPaul on the Charlevoix Train.
Or, perhaps you’d prefer to snake around the cedars and maples on one of our hiking trails to discover pristine wilderness in the clearings?
Crisp air and muted hues create a symphony of calm at Club Med that rebalance the mind, body, and soul.
FROM SNOW TO SUN
As the snow melts and sun emerges, spring is the ultimate season for rest and relaxation at our wellness experiences. Our indoor heated pool is a place of calm solitude elevated by a hot tub, whilst our steam room is just a stone’s throw away.
Open your chakras and become aware of your surroundings with a group yoga and meditation session. Breathe in and let nature soothe you with views across the mountains and a river where you can obtain pure vitality. Then, refinement awaits at the Sothys spa, which presents a magical escape from the everyday.
HIKING TRAILS
Whether conquering new peaks, scaling the vast and mighty mountainside, or basking in total tranquillity, Charlevoix has become the region of choice for hikers from all walks of life.
BOASTING MORE THAN 600 kilometres (km) of varying hiking trails criss-crossing through stunning scenery, Charlevoix is now a prime destination for adventurers seeking inspiration around every corner.
Avid hikers now journey from near and far to explore this different world, sculpted by the impact of an ancient meteorite.
With its high mountaintops, mysterious tundra, steep cliffs, and mountainous backcountry, Charlevoix includes trails for every type of adventurer – including easy walks that invite both young and old to be at one with nature, as well as heart-pumping ascents for seasoned hikers looking to challenge themselves to reach viewpoints that will truly take their breath away.
The growing popularity of Charlevoix’s hiking trails is a testament to the area’s natural beauty. However, more visitors can mean more issues, such as faster trail degradation, bigger environmental impacts, and more rescue operations.
Therefore, enjoying these highly coveted natural spaces comes with a duty to be respectful of the surroundings as well as the individuals who look after the trails, fellow hikers, and nearby communities.
Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix, Traversée de Charlevoix, Grands-Jardins National Park, and Hautes-Gorges-dela-Rivière-Malbaie National Park represent some of the region’s most treasured and popular trails.
The ‘five summits challenge’ also attracts its fair share of hiking aficionados, as the region is teeming with hidden gems waiting to be explored.
RECOMMENDS
Eat:
FOR A FRIENDLY BISTRO WITH AN EXCELLENT CHOICE OF BEERS AND SUCCULENT DISHES...
Bistro Local 245 is located at 245 boulevard de Comporté in La Malbaie, where you can’t miss the magnificent building that previously housed the Crêperie Le Passe-Temps. Now, it’s a friendly bistro with an excellent choice of beers and succulent dishes concocted by the chef for visitors to discover!
FOR THE IDEAL PLACE TO SAVOUR LOCAL PRODUCTS COOKED IN FRESH AND COMFORTING DISHES...
Le Bercail is open every day and offers fresh and comforting cuisine, highlighting the exquisite products of the Charlevoix region.
Sleep:
FOR A RURAL SETTING WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF THE ST. LAWRENCE RIVER...
Auberge des 3 Canards
FOR A WINTER WONDERLAND WITH SPLENDID VIEWS...
Club Med Quebec Charlevoix is the company’s first North American mountain resort, where sea and mountains meet, offering a thrilling experience that will impress even the most experienced skiers. Architecturally designed with a contemporary yet traditional Canadian style, the resort is perched in the heart of the region, immersed in the unspoiled natural landscape with amazing views of the nearby river. A wide array of activities is offered year-round to experience the region’s ever-changing landscape, with each season presenting trails for skiing in the winter and mountain biking in the summer.
Auberge and restaurant, located in La Malbaie in the heart of the magnificent Charlevoix region, offers you an enchanting setting.
Nestled between mountains and sea, our inn boasts a breathtaking view of the majestic St. Lawrence River, a panorama that invites relaxation and contemplation.
Less than an hour from Quebec City, our exceptional inn, with over 40 rooms and suites, is the perfect place for a peaceful getaway.
Whether for a romantic retreat, an outdoor adventure, or a well-deserved break, you will be immersed in a warm and authentic atmosphere, where the beauty of the landscape blends perfectly with modern comfort.
Phone: 1-800-461-3761
Email: info@auberge3canards.com
Website: auberge3canards.com
Facebook: Auberge des 3 Canards
Instagram: auberge3canards
Landmark Attractions
St. Lawrence River
Bordered by spectacular landscapes and caressed by the saltwater breeze, the St. Lawrence River is a multifaceted, natural jewel. There’s so much to be amazed by, with the sheer number of superb vantage points that stretch from Petite-Rivière-Saint-François to Baie-Sainte-Catherine. These spots are perfect for observing the abundant flora and fauna whilst respecting the vast ecosystems and wetlands. The St. Lawrence Route links Baie-Saint-Paul and La Malbaie, including the beautiful Isle-aux-Coudres. This panoramic road is considered one of the most beautiful in North America.
Grands-Jardins National Park
This incredible site boasts a unique and fascinating ecosystem. Often referred to as the “Islet of Quebec’s Far North”, the park is home to vegetation that isn’t found anywhere else in the south of the province. This breathtaking sanctuary, marked by numerous mountaintops and granite domes, features no fewer than 120 bodies of water and three types of forest, whilst its diverse flora sustains a wide range of wildlife.
Musée maritime de Charlevoix
Step into the past at this incredible museum, which offers a look back at the history of wooden schooners and coastal trade along the St. Lawrence River. In addition to its five exhibitions, four ships, and ancient sawmill, the site now features an aerial obstacle course, hiking trail, and an ocean of activities to immerse visitors in the region’s maritime heritage.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Getting There and Around
WHILST THE FIRST settlers in the region arrived by boat, nowadays, there are a number of ways to get to Charlevoix.
Located 93km from Québec City and 387km from Montréal, Charlevoix is a picturesque gem nestled between the river and the mountains. Visitors can fly, sail, or drive to the area with Route 138 presenting an opportunity to see breathtaking panoramas and exquisite vistas.
Charlevoix is approximately a 90-minute drive from Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport.
Vehicles can be rented on site, and there’s a shuttle to downtown Québec City, where there are trains and buses that travel to and from Charlevoix.
Alternatively, the unique, touristic Train de Charlevoix, connecting Québec City to La Malbaie, offers passengers a jaw-dropping visual spectacle featuring steep cliffs and the shores of the St. Lawrence River. This attractive option also allows visitors to take in the exquisite natural setting as they approach their final destination.
In winter, more adventurous
travellers can even make their way around via snowmobile.
Elsewhere, a ferry service makes daily trips between Rivière-du-Loup and Saint-Siméon, with the ride lasting an hour and a half, whilst Tadoussac–Baie-Saint-Catherine ferry also connects the region to Côte-Nord in just 10 minutes.
Finally, an array of buses makes regular trips between the Gare du Palais station in Québec City and Charlevoix. Intercar buses also connect a number of cities in the province to Charlevoix on weekdays.
Charlevoix
Crete
Authentic cuisine, restorative experiences, and a white and pink powdered coastline are why Crete should feature on every island itinerary. The shimmering, peacock-coloured waters and rugged terrain cast an enchantment that illuminates its myths and unveils a treasure trove of history in this cradle of European culture
WRITER: RACHEL CARR | PROJECT MANAGER: ALFIE WILSON
As the largest island in Greece, Crete offers myriad adventures for visitors, with remnants of ancient civilisations waiting to be admired against the backdrop of impressive mountainscapes and steep gorges concealing waterfalls.
Fertile valleys are juxtaposed with palm trees and blue seas, whilst rich gastronomy will entice visitors into the many traditional tavernas that populate the vibrant cities, picturesque towns, and charming villages.
Beyond its beautiful beaches, Crete’s diverse topography encompasses Dikteon Cave, said to be the birthplace of “Xenios” Zeus, the god of hospitality. Its majestic stalactites and stalagmites make the climb up the mountain worthwhile, as on the ascent, travellers are rewarded with dramatic views of the Lassithi Plateau.
Full of tradition and with a generous spirit, Cretan culture permeates the entire island. Centred here during the Bronze Age was the Minoan civilisation, so called after the mythical king of Crete, Minos, whose labyrinth housed a Minotaur and was built by Daedalus – a skilful architect and craftsman in Greek mythology and the name given to complex structures to this day.
Renowned for its architecture and art, the mighty Minoan legacy is evident in the fresco-decorated
palaces of Knossos and Phaistos, two unmissable attractions and the most famous Minoan palaces.
The palaces of Malia, Zakros, the winter palace of Zominthos, and the site of ancient Kydonia, meanwhile, are nominated for their serial inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The island’s heritage is also deeply rooted in its cuisine, with the Cretan diet considered a philosophy for life.
Internationally renowned for unique ingredients and flavours, it relies heavily on locally sourced produce such as olive oil, herbs, and vegetables.
From fruit trees to mountain greens, the island’s distinguished dishes are served in traditional tavernas, and with over 4,000 years of wine-making history, there is an abundance of high-quality krasi to accompany dakos – the signature Cretan salad comprising barley rusk, fresh tomatoes, and its main feature, local cheese drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, complemented by oregano.
From adventure-seeking to nature exploration, whether indulging in culture or sampling local cuisine, every inch of the island offers an intoxicating aroma.
Famous for its hospitality and vitality, Crete comprises storytellers and artisans weaving a tapestry of traditions, making it a place that truly nourishes the soul.
The Region of Crete is a self-governing authority in Greece dedicated to promoting tourism across the island. We speak with Vice Governor for Tourism, Dr Kyriakos Kotsoglou, who shares valuable insights about why Crete is a top destination amongst the Greek islands.
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, can you talk us through the origins of the Region of Crete and its initial vision and mission?
Dr Kyriakos Kotsoglou, Vice Governor for Tourism (KK): Crete is the cradle of Western European civilisation, home to the pioneering Minoan civilisation. Gracefully situated in the Eastern Mediterranean at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Crete has been the arena of many different civilisations throughout history, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Saracenic, Ottoman, and Venetian.
Region of Crete
This rich history has ingrained hospitality into Cretan DNA. Not coincidentally, Crete was the homeland of Zeus and, amongst others, the protector of visitors.
Travellers from the 18th and 19th centuries described the island’s hospitality as remarkable, as families of the village or community would gather food, always six or seven kinds, to offer to their guests as a token of gratitude. Besides fruit, meals included various meats, poultry, game, or fish cooked and served in diverse dishes, with families often
depriving themselves to provide the best for their guests.
Such celebrations allowed Cretans to showcase their products to visitors and, at the same time, express their deep pride. These ‘symposiums’ are rooted in a profound tradition of hospitality, unlike anything found in Western standards.
This is our origin, and our vision is for Crete to remain an authentic haven of hospitality. Our mission is for visitors to become immersed in golden pages of experiences and hospitality that transcend a mere stay, providing a timeless experience.
OT: Why should anyone visit Crete, and what type of travellers does it appeal to? How does it differ from other Greek islands?
KK: The difference between Crete and the other wonderful islands of the Aegean or the Mediterranean is its incredible diversity. From the celebrity of the 5-star north to the alternative hippie south and alpine skiing in the mountains, Crete is a model of diversity that enchants every visitor. Why is Crete a must-see destination? A common question, yet the answer is simple – it offers
a unique blend of three distinct personalities. The north boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a thriving hotel industry, including 30 percent of Greece’s 5-star hotels. However, it also caters to all budgets, offering a wide range of accommodation options.
The charming south, meanwhile, exudes a lovely, alternative vibe filled with stories, hidden paths, and stunning beaches where the sunset and the sea seamlessly merge and the island’s interior reveals a wealth of surprises, from picturesque villages to unspoiled mountains, trails, caves, and waterfalls.
Industry Insights
OT: How is Crete embracing sustainable or environmentallyfriendly travel experiences?
KK: This is a universal question that travellers ask about destinations around the world.
Crete’s unique appeal lies in its incredible diversity. The island’s size allows for moments of solitude, whether seeking a secluded beach, a peaceful hike, or a breathtaking view undisturbed by crowds. However, several world-renowned areas, primarily beaches and attractions, contribute significantly to Crete’s reputation and attract substantial tourist traffic.
Notable examples include the renowned beaches of Balos, Falasarna, Elafonissos, and Preveli in Western Crete and Hersonissos, Malia, and Vai to the east of the island. Additionally, our picturesque Venetian ports are major attractions. We are committed to preserving the authenticity of these destinations and ensuring that travellers who honour us with their presence have a truly enriching experience.
We are committed to promoting renewable energy sources without compromising the visitor experience. Additionally, we strive to achieve complete recycling, improve our infrastructure, and encourage alternative forms of tourism.
From the iconic Samaria Gorge to the stunning Richtis Waterfall in Sitia, Crete offers amazing trails, majestic mountains, and a wealth of natural wonders where sustainability
and environmental protection are synonymous with nature, and people respect that.
OT: How do you market the island as a destination? What strategies do you employ to promote the off-peak season?
KK: We’re actively participating in Outlook Travel Magazine and encouraging local businesses and organisations to join us, which is a great opportunity.
Furthermore, our extensive tourism promotion programme includes participation in numerous international travel exhibitions, workshops, and roadshows –totalling over 40 events annually. We also host a significant number of journalists, travel agents, social media influencers, YouTubers, TikTokers, tourism influencers, and thought leaders. Our publications are
“OFTEN REFERRED TO AS ‘THE LITTLE CONTINENT’, CRETE BESTOWS COUNTLESS REASONS TO VISIT, BUT FOUR KEY PILLARS STAND OUT: OUR UNSURPASSED NATURE, GASTRONOMY, CULTURE, AND HEARTFELT HOSPITALITY”
–
DR KYRIAKOS KOTSOGLOU, VICE GOVERNOR FOR TOURISM, REGION OF CRETE
renowned, and we maintain strong partnerships with airlines.
Crete’s global fame is undeniable. Even without extensive marketing efforts, from local publications to renowned international channels like National Geographic, Crete is widely recognised as one of the most famous islands in the world – it is everywhere!
Often referred to as ‘The Little Continent’, Crete bestows countless reasons to visit, but four key pillars
stand out: our unsurpassed nature, gastronomy, culture, and heartfelt hospitality.
Crete offers a year-round experience, with something to discover every month. We promote this concept as ‘12 Reasons – Months to Love Crete’. However, Crete is an island, and airlines must support our tourism efforts. We’re waiting for you, and we invite you to discover the beauty of Crete during the off-season
when nature flourishes, culture thrives, cuisine is at its peak, and hospitality is personalised.
OT: Are there any interesting or exciting projects you would like to highlight?
KK: Unlike many other destinations around the world, where landmarks, often referred to as monuments or toponyms, are primarily manmade structures like Big Ben, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Colosseum, Crete’s most iconic features are its stunning natural formations, which require careful preservation to ensure their enduring beauty.
Crete’s infrastructure requires modernisation and improvement. Kastelli International Airport, expected to be operational by early 2027, will address the limitations experienced
Industry Insights
at existing airports. Additionally, completion of the new Northern Motorway will enhance transportation and safety.
We are also committed to implementing biological cleaning at our marinas and ensuring equal accessibility for individuals with disabilities. These initiatives are part of our comprehensive plan to modernise Crete’s infrastructure and create a holistic and welcoming location.
OT: What trends are transforming the tourism industry on the island, and how are you utilising them?
KK: Today’s travellers are seeking more than just a place to stay; they crave immersive experiences that align with sustainable practices and digital advancements, which are key trends shaping the future of tourism.
In response, Crete has strategically linked its UNESCO World Heritage
Sites – the White Mountains and Samaria Gorge, Psiloritis Natural Park, Asterousia Mountains, and Sitia Geopark. We believe that visitors are now ready to embrace the beauty and diversity of Cretan nature fully, enjoy hiking the E4 European long-distance path, and truly immerse themselves in every experience.
Furthermore, in the developed areas in the north of the island, we are working with businesses to implement eco-friendly practices and combat greenwashing – a negative trend in the tourism industry that, unfortunately, has gained traction.
The green transition and digital transformation are crucial for Crete’s sustainable tourism journey, which will preserve the island’s authenticity
and allow visitors to “Sense the Authentic”, as highlighted in our global campaign. Join us on our digital transformation journey by visiting www.incrediblecrete.gr and exploring Crete’s diverse experiences.
OT: What challenges does the tourism industry in Crete face, and how do you navigate them?
KK: Crete, as an island and a region, is fortunate to see its visitor numbers grow annually. It does not show signs of overtourism, however, our concern is to ensure it never does. Crete needs to strike the right balance between developing its infrastructure and preserving the unique qualities that make it a popular destination.
On the other hand, it’s essential for Crete to verify the sustainability of its natural resources, and we have comprehensive plans in place to manage water resources effectively and avoid shortages. However, challenges related to infrastructure, such as drains, sidewalks, and public spaces, need to be addressed, especially in the context of climate change, which we believe can be viewed as an opportunity to revitalise tourism during the shoulder months, for it is then that Crete is truly exciting, sustainable, and authentic.
OT: What are the Region of Crete’s current goals and key priorities for the coming year?
The COVID-19 pandemic made us wonder whether Crete is
truly an incredible destination or a marketing product. In 2020, arrivals dropped to 27 percent below pre-pandemic levels. However, Crete’s performance was remarkably resilient compared to other destinations that experienced near-total declines.
In 2021, Crete recovered 75 percent of its 2019 visitor numbers, demonstrating the significance of its diverse tourism offerings and capacity to accommodate visitors in inland areas. This success was evident in articles praising Crete with the title ‘Quarantine in Paradise’.
Since then, Crete has witnessed a steady increase in arrivals, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 6.5 percent in 2022 and maintaining a growth rate of six to seven percent annually. While global inflation poses challenges, Crete’s tourism industry is poised for further growth, supported by Kastelli International Airport and the Northern Motorway. However, our top priority is to manage the increase in visitors sustainably.
Our goal to maintain Crete’s reputation as a popular destination and establish a reputation for our commitment to authenticity.
OT: Are you optimistic about the future of tourism in Crete? How do you see it developing in the years ahead?
KK: We have unwavering optimism regarding tourism in Crete – we wouldn’t be in this position if we didn’t. The consistent increase in arrivals fuels our positivity, and we are committed to preserving the unique qualities that make Crete famous, faster, farther, and stronger – “citius, altius, fortius”.
To maintain our success, we must always view things from the
perspective of our visitors, not solely from our own. This is the biggest secret to establish successful hospitality and service in general, and in Crete, we know this very well.
Reaching the top is challenging, but staying there requires even greater effort without negatively impacting the visitor experience and the quality of life for our residents.
Sustainable tourism is not only about the visitor and their vacation, but also the harmonious symbiosis between visitors and locals regarding equality and a considerate relationship between host and visitor, as is now the case in Crete. Otherwise, it’s your paradise, my misery!
Sail. Relax. Repeat.
Discover Set Sails, a leading sailing company in Heraklion, Crete, offering unique journeys since 2010.
Founded by Aris Vlachakis, a sports graduate with over 20,000 nautical miles of experience, Set Sails combines maritime expertise with a passion for sailing.
Operating from March to November, our fleet of four meticulously maintained boats embarks on daily trips to Dia Island, unveiling the pristine blue waters of the Mediterranean. Carefully managed and thoughtfully designed, the itinerary prioritises the well-being of guests on board as its primary objective.
Remaining true to his values, Aris demonstrates the ability to effectively recruit and lead the Set Sails team.
Our professional team guarantees each voyage is marked by safety, comfort, and unforgettable memories.
Sailing trips
Set Sails: Everyday Sailing Experience
Set Sails operates from March to October, offering two daily sailing trips:
• Morning (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
• Afternoon (3:00 PM - 9:00 PM).
Choose between a shared or private sailing trip.
Our destination is Dia Island, just six nautical miles from Heraklion Port, and the round trip takes approximately one hour.
We focus on providing a hassle-free and enjoyable sailing experience. Join us for a straightforward and delightful journey, where simplicity meets the sea.
Shared sailing trip
• Fun
• Explore
• Make friends
Private sailing trip
• Relaxation
• Personalised service
• Privacy and exclusivity
Morning sailing trips
Meeting Point: Marina Cafe at Heraklion Port at 8:40
Transfer: Minibus available for convenient transport
Shared or Private: Choose the experience that suits you
Guests: 8-10 guests
Crew: 1 Captain and 1 assistant
Highlights:
Scenic Sail: Depart at 9:00 for Dia Island, enjoying the coastal views and the chance to spot dolphins.
Saint George Bay: Anchor at 10:30 for activitiessnorkeling, swimming, paddle-boarding, or simply relaxing onboard.
Mediterranean Meal: Around 12:30, a delightful Mediterranean lunch, including Greek salad, seafood pasta, and fruit salad is served, complemented by white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water.
Return Prep: Prepare for the journey back to Heraklion, starting at 13:30. As we set sail back, enjoy the cool sea breeze under the warmth of the sun.
Set Sails in numbers:
1500 guests+ / per month
6.000 guests+ / per year
5 experienced captains
4 meticulously maintained boats
Our Fleet:
Safety Assurance: Well-maintained sailing knowing that their safety is a top priority.
Regular inspections of structural integrity
Comfort and Cleanliness: A clean and comfortable and inviting environment
Sunset sailing trips
Meeting Point: Marina Cafe at Heraklion Port at 14:40
Transfer: Minibus available for convenient transport
Shared or Private: Choose the experience that suits you
Guests: 8-10 guests
Crew: 1 Captain and 1 assistant
Highlights:
Scenic Sail: Depart at 15:00 for Dia Island, enjoying the coastal views and the chance to spot dolphins.
Saint George Bay: Anchor at 16:30 for activitiessnorkeling, swimming, paddle-boarding, or simply relaxing onboard.
Mediterranean Meal: Around 18:30, a delightful Mediterranean meal, including Greek salad, seafood pasta, and fruit salad is served, complemented by white wine, beer, soft drinks and water.
Return Prep: Prepare for the journey back to Heraklion, starting at 19:30. Get ready to witness the stunning sunset at sea.
sailing boat offers guests peace of mind priority.
integrity and functionality of safety equipment. well-kept boat provides guests with a throughout their trip.
On the northwest coast of Crete lies Chania, recognisable by its 14th century Venetian harbour, ready to beguile with its historical grandeur.
THE PRETTY CITY is crisscrossed by narrow lanes accented by pastel-coloured buildings and old townhouses converted into restaurants and boutiques. The diverse architecture reflects the island’s rich history, showcasing influences from the Ottoman, Venetian, Byzantine, and Egyptian empires. Indeed, the conquests left an indelible mark on Chania’s marine panorama, particularly highlighted by the construction of the Küçük Hasan Pasha Mosque, also known as the Mosque of the Janissaries. Built in 1645, it is the oldest Ottoman structure in Crete.
Chania’s charm extends to its beaches, which are amongst the most breathtaking in Greece. The glittering lagoon of beautiful Balos is teeming with flora and fauna endemic to Crete and protected under the Natura 2000 programme. Located on the Gramvousa Peninsula, Balos
is also home to migratory birds, the Mediterranean monk seal - which gives birth in the underwater caves - and the loggerhead sea turtle, all of which can be experienced on a boat tour.
The area offers a wide variety of experiences for every type of traveller, from local cuisine and nightlife to historical sites, and hiking through the unique countryside or scenic coastline. A range of beaches provide ample opportunity for snorkelling and scuba diving.
The Old Town features shops with locally made ceramics and jewellery boutiques, and the city is filled with attractions like the Venetian Lighthouse, the Ottoman Baths, the Clock Tower, and the Castle of Gramvoussa. In addition, visitors can explore the Archaeological Museum of Chania and delve into the history of the area.
RECOMMENDS
Eat:
FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE VISTA...
Lyrarakis Winery and Tasting Room offers a beautiful lunch setting, nestled among the Psarades vineyard and the Lassithi Plateau. Guests can embrace the spirit of Dionysus, the god of wine and pleasure. The winery features rare indigenous grapes that produce three ancient Cretan wine varieties, which visitors can enjoy in a peaceful area under the shade of olive trees, complemented by a picnic basket filled with premium Cretan cheeses and other traditional delicacies.
FOR UNADULTERATED ELEGANCE...
Prima Plora uses raw ingredients to explore Cretan cuisine free from pesticides and fertilisers, utilising animals fed by nature. Indulge in sushi, salads, steak, seafood dishes, fresh bread, and olive oil while enjoying a relaxing, luxurious oceanfront atmosphere.
Do:
FOR A SERENE SAILING EXPERIENCE...
Set Sails invites visitors to board its sumptuous sailing boat and enjoy the spellbinding cityscape of Heraklion, the administrative capital of Crete.
Set Sails’ fresh Mediterranean lunch of flavoursome Greek salad, renowned seafood pasta (alternative options are available), and fruits are included in the package along with beverages including wine, beer, water, and soft drinks.
The professional captain and crew can accommodate up to eight people per boat on a sixhour sailing trip, sailing to Dia, a small, uninhabited island known for its natural beauty and abundant marine life where guests will have the opportunity to use snorkelling equipment and explore its thrilling depths. If going underwater isn’t for you, paddle boarding is also an increasingly popular option.
Filled with mystery, mythology, and history, there are various ways to experience the beauty of Dia. Take a morning trip as the Cretan sun gathers its strength, the crystal-clear waters shimmer, the sweet smell of the Mediterranean breeze gently tickles the senses, and the panoramic coastline gives way to dolphins playfully surfacing along the way; the soothing sound of the ocean will both relax and restore as the boat sways. At the same time, sunset sailing creates lasting memories as the return journey unfolds under a twinkling celestial canopy.
Whether relaxing or exploring at sunrise or sunset, Set Sails’ dedicated team can organise minivan transfers to the landscapes of Agia Pelagia, lively coastal resorts, quaint villages, bustling hubs, and historic towns.
FOR FUN AND ENTERTAINMENT...
Music and dancing are synonymous with Greek culture, so it is highly recommended for visitors to immerse themselves in Cretan rhythms. The Pyrrhic is the most famous dance in Crete, although each region has its own traditions, most of which retain the iconic circular pattern, whilst Cretan costumes are vivid and create a stunning display. Other dances include the Pentozali, Sousta, and Pidichtos, performed energetically by couples.
With a lute or violin as guidance, dancers exhibit skill through complex steps, accompanied by the lute and rarer instruments. Cretan music is regarded as the most vibrant in Greece as the melodies are not limited and improvisation is encouraged. The island is steeped in antiquity, strongly influenced by Byzantine music and enriched by the musical culture of the wider Eastern Mediterranean.
Sleep:
FOR A BLISSFUL BREAK...
Aoria Estate has a boutique villa, apartments, and suites in the picturesque Venetian town of Chania near the harbour. Experience Cretan hospitality amongst beautiful scenery and all the amenities for a peaceful and stress-free stay.
FOR A PRIVATE RETREAT...
Elani’s Stately Home is an exceptional villa in the picturesque location of Episkopi village in Rethymno with mountain views, a swimming pool, and 24/7 concierge service. The stone-built beamed house features a mesmerising terrace that glows at night, filled with fragrant florals and flanked by leafy trees that create a sanctuary in the midday sun.
Landmark Attractions
Spinalonga
At just 85 acres, the islet of Spinalonga has had several incarnations throughout history. Once a Venetian fortress, it was also a refuge for revolutionaries during the Cretan War and an Ottoman settlement during the Turkish occupation. From the early to mid20th century, it was a leprosarium before being catapulted into popular culture in The Island, authored by Victoria Hislop.
Zakros Gorge
Also known as the Valley of the Dead, the Zakros Gorge hiking trail is marked by ancient Minoan burial sites situated in caves and along the canyon walls, where the Minoans worshipped the souls of their ancestors. The bone-white rocks are surrounded by vultures soaring above, enhancing the eerie atmosphere of this remarkable and poignant site.
Elafonisi Beach
Exotic crystal waters and soft white and pink sand await visitors in this magical place on the southwestern side of Crete. Cedar trees stretch out towards the coastline, and the beach’s distinctive feature is the blush-hued sand created by thousands of shattered seashells. The inviting, shallow water connects to other parts of the island, whilst the fluffy sand makes it ideal for escaping the crowds.
Getting There and Around
THERE ARE TWO international airports in Heraklion and Chania, with flights to the island available from many European airports operated by the likes of Aegean Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, Norwegian Air, KLM, and easyJet. However, there are no direct flights from the US or Australia.
Alternatively, travel to other Greek islands and catch a connecting flight, or take a ferry to enjoy the scenic route of the Aegean Sea. Five companies offer 42 ferry routes, with the fastest from Piraeus, Athens to Chania and Crete. Island hopping is also popular with regular ferries from Mykonos, Naxos, Santorini, and other well-known Greek destinations.
Buses and air-conditioned coaches can take travellers anywhere in Crete,
but car rental is just as easy with major vehicle hire brands located in international airports. However, the best deals will be from local companies.
Renting a car may be the best option for travellers with mobility issues, as buses do not have lifts and taxis designed to accommodate people with disabilities are limited to certain areas such as Chania and Iraklio.
Taxis are perfect for local journeys and post-hike pick-ups, whilst boats connect the idyllic beaches along the southwest coast. For exploring the island, bike rentals are available in larger towns and tourist areas. Prepare for Crete’s hilly terrain and you will be rewarded with a sublime meander through stunning peaks and gorges.
DID YOU KNOW?
• The oldest olive trees in the world are in Crete, including the Vouves olive tree, which is still productive 4,000 years later.
• Crete’s 1,047 kilometre coastline boasts the most transparent waters in Europe, which explains why 150 of its 550 beaches have Blue Flag status.
• According to Greek mythology, Daedalus fled from Crete with his son, Icarus, whose wings melted near the island of Icaria, causing him to fall to his death.
• Most famous for her role in the US sitcom, Friends, Hollywood actress Jennifer Aniston was born on the island.
• Crete has the most species of wild herbs growing on hillsides and mountainsides in Europe.
• The island is divided into four regions – Lassithi, Heraklion, Rethymno, and Chania.
• The 1968 film Zorba the Greek was shot in black and white on location in Crete, and the famous final scene of Zorba’s dance was filmed on Stavros Beach at the northernmost tip of the Akrotiri Peninsula.
Hvar
Crystal-clear waters, historic charm, and vibrant nightlife combine to present Hvar as an essential Mediterranean getaway. Located along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, the island is a blend of both natural beauty and cultural allure
WRITER: LILY SAWYER | PROJECT MANAGER: BEN WEAVER
Set in the sparkling Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia, Hvar is where history, luxury, and adventure converge.
Known for its mild climate, lush vineyards, and ancient towns, the island has become a sought-after destination for travellers seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
Diverse landscapes, from rocky coves and pine-fringed beaches to verdant hills and scenic coastal paths, present Hvar as an ideal site for exploration and discovery.
The island’s history is just as enchanting as its landscapes, speckled with antiquity, such as the 16th-century Fortica Fortress, the Gothic-style St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and rustic villages showcasing traditional Croatian architecture.
Hvar Town, meanwhile, exudes a blend of old-world charm and modern luxury where visitors can find
everything from ancient, cobbled streets to high-end boutiques and waterfront restaurants serving local wines and fresh seafood.
After sunset, the town’s cafés, beach bars, and clubs pulse with energy, drawing a mix of international visitors and locals to its vibrant nightlife and scenic harbour.
For a quieter evening experience, nearby towns like Stari Grad and Jelsa offer a more relaxed atmosphere with charming cafés and family-owned wineries.
Adventure-seekers can relish in a variety of exciting activities, from sailing around the nearby Pakleni Islands to scuba diving in crystal-clear waters or hiking through lush vineyards.
In essence, Hvar is a multifaceted destination offering history, culture, and nature against a backdrop of unparalleled Mediterranean beauty, making for a stimulating yet laid-back island escape.
Industry Insights
Hvar Town Tourist Board
Iva Belaj Šantić, Director of the Hvar Town Tourist Board, outlines the rich history of tourism on the island, the countless visitor experiences on offer, and the organisation’s role in navigating a sustainable future for the industry.
Outlook Travel (OT): In your opinion, why should someone visit Hvar?
Iva Belaj Šantić, Director (IBS): Hvar is where time seems to slow down, allowing you to relax and savour every moment. There’s no rush here – everything you need is patiently waiting for you.
The sun, which shines nearly all year round, beautiful beaches, some of which are still secret, rich gastronomy bursting with flavour, and countless opportunities for excursions make Hvar an ideal escape from the everyday.
If you’re looking for a unique island with great energy, rich history, delicious food, and friendly people, look no further.
OT: As an organisation with many years of experience in the local tourism industry, how would you say Hvar has evolved as a destination?
IBS: Traces of visitors to Hvar date back to as early as 2407 BCE when the Greeks colonised the island and named it Pharos, making the island a hub of cultural and trade connections. Over centuries, others followed,
including pilgrims on their way to the holy land and, during winter, Venetian ships seeking safe harbour. These visitors brought new ideas, spices, and influences from distant lands, enriching the island’s heritage.
The modern era of tourism began in 1868 with the founding of the Hvar Hygienic Society (Societa Igienica), which functioned much like the Hvar Town Tourist Board today, promoting the island as a winter health resort due to its mild climate and therapeutic benefits. This was the first institution of its kind in Europe.
Since then, Hvar has evolved into a destination for sun seekers, luxury travellers, and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mix of history, culture, and adventure, and welcoming visitors from all around the world.
OT: With a history dating back to the 4th century BCE, what important historical and cultural landmarks can tourists encounter on the island?
IBS: Hvar is the only Croatian island with six UNESCO-listed assets.
But that’s not all! Hvar is a treasure trove of history and culture at every step, from ancient artefacts to ceramic depictions uncovered in Grapčeva Cave, one of which
is believed to be the oldest-ever portrayal of a ship.
Hvar also boasts the historic St. Stephen’s Square (Pjaca), the largest in Dalmatia, where visitors can discover the Arsenal building and the oldest public theatre in Europe, founded in 1612. Meanwhile, the stunning Fortica Fortress offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The nearby Pakleni Islands feature pristine beaches, perfect for a relaxing getaway, whilst the ancient town of Stari Grad showcases remarkable Greek influence, a testament to its rich history.
Elsewhere, the charming town of Jelsa and village of Vrboska further enrich Hvar’s unique character and
“IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE ISLAND WITH GREAT ENERGY, RICH HISTORY, DELICIOUS FOOD, AND FRIENDLY PEOPLE, LOOK NO FURTHER”
– IVA BELAJ ŠANTIĆ, DIRECTOR, HVAR TOWN TOURIST BOARD
spirit with stories about great wineries and the lives of winemakers and fishermen.
OT: How do you market and promote Hvar’s various travel offerings to both domestic and international tourists?
IBS: We market Hvar as a unique destination and an island of a thousand stories. We utilise both digital and traditional marketing channels to promote Hvar, showcasing its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear seas, and abundant sunshine.
Emphasising the island’s rich cultural heritage alongside its modern amenities, safety, and leisure opportunities is key.
Sustainable tourism practices are particularly important to us, especially those that respect the local community. Whilst Hvar is a popular tourist destination, it is also where we live and raise our children, and we want to highlight this to visitors.
Our primary goal is to reach international audiences who may not be familiar with Hvar or who have never had the chance to visit. To achieve this, we collaborate with representatives on familiarisation trips, partner with travel agencies, engage with social media influencers, and participate in tourism fairs worldwide.
Through these efforts, we aim to showcase Hvar in a way that makes a lasting impression and holds a special place in visitors’ hearts.
OT: As a culturally vibrant destination with a busy events calendar, what type of travellers does Hvar typically attract?
IBS: While Hvar has often been associated with nightlife, it is so much more than just a party destination, and we strive to emphasise this.
Hvar attracts a diverse range of travellers, including history buffs,
culture vultures, nature lovers, and luxury tourists. With its UNESCOlisted assets and vibrant events, the island appeals to those looking for both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
Hvar’s calendar is filled with events catering to various interests, such as the Hvar Summer Festival, which features concerts, performances, and exhibitions.
Families can enjoy summer on the island with their children, whilst sports enthusiasts can participate in events like the Hvar Half Marathon, Spartan Sprint World Championship, or the Melges 24 and New Year Regatta boat races.
Additional sports events include the European Veteran Judo Cup and Hvar International Open Chess Tournament, catering to a wide range of sports interests.
Art lovers can engage with creative initiatives like Sketchbook by the Sea
or our Bodypainting Festival, film buffs can watch a movie at Kino Mediteran, whilst local events such as the Jelsa Wine Festival and Dani U Vali Festival (Days in the Bay) in Stari Grad provide a taste of local culture and tradition. With a rich variety of activities, Hvar Town and the surrounding areas are brimming with opportunity, ensuring visitors can find experiences that resonate with their interests. Our focus is on creating a vibrant atmosphere that balances entertainment with cultural experiences, making Hvar a perfect destination for creating unforgettable memories.
OT: How does Hvar appeal to travellers in all four seasons of the year?
IBS: Hvar is often considered a summer destination, but it holds year-round appeal, even if it is much quieter during the off-season.
In spring and autumn, the mild
weather is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wine tasting.
Winter brings a more peaceful atmosphere, with reduced transport connections between November and March and most tourist-oriented businesses closed. This is the islanders’ time, and while you may not find much in terms of services, you might just find something even more valuable – yourself.
The off-season allows both the locals and nature to regenerate. It’s a time when Hvar truly breathes, offering a rare and personal experience that the busy summer months can’t provide. You can explore the island’s charm at your own pace – after all, tourism in Hvar began as a winter escape, and perhaps it’s time to reconnect with those origins.
For modern nomads, this tranquil period is ideal as the slower pace and natural beauty make Hvar a perfect place for remote work, reflection, and reconnecting with nature.
OT: How important are the awards and accolades the Hvar Town Tourist Board has accumulated over the years?
IBS: Hvar has consistently garnered international recognition as a premier destination in Europe and worldwide.
In 2024, Travel + Leisure honoured Hvar with third place in Europe and seventh globally in its World’s Best
Awards, whilst Condé Nast Traveller readers ranked it amongst the top 10 islands in Europe, placing it eighth.
Wanderlust readers similarly recognised Hvar as one of Europe’s most desirable islands, ranking amongst the top five in 2024, and according to the renowned TimeOut magazine, it is 2024’s fourth most beautiful island in the world.
In 2023, Big 7 Travel named Hvar the ‘Best Island in the World’, whilst Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveller both ranked it highly for its beaches, charm, and appeal.
This pattern of accolades stretches way back, including a first-place ranking as Europe’s best island by Condé Nast Traveller in 2019 and 2021, respectively, reflecting Hvar’s enduring allure.
OT: What other cultural, historical, or sporting activities attract visitors to Hvar?
IBS: Besides the cultural and historical attractions I’ve already mentioned, Hvar offers a variety of outdoor activities that are perfect for adventure seekers. Thanks to the island’s stunning natural landscapes, hiking, sailing, diving, and cycling are popular, as well as rock climbing.
What makes Hvar truly unique is its seamless blend of cultural richness and outdoor experiences. Whether exploring ancient landmarks or enjoying exhilarating activities, the island offers an unmatched combination of history, culture, and adventure.
OT: Finally, are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Hvar?
IBS: We live in a time when travel has become easier and more accessible than ever, allowing people from all over the world to experience the beauty of places like Hvar.
Whilst this newfound accessibility brings incredible opportunities, it also
presents challenges with managing tourism sustainably. As an island with a sensitive ecosystem and a tourism-focused economy, Hvar must navigate these pressures carefully. Still, I remain hopeful for Hvar’s future.
In the coming years, we have an opportunity to harmonise the quality of life for our internal communities with the experiences of visitors who choose Hvar for their precious vacation time.
Our vision increasingly centres around sustainable and regenerative tourism – building a model that not only enhances the visitor experience but also supports local culture, community, and nature.
Enjoying over 155 years of tourism, Hvar can draw on its long-standing role as a model destination to create a balanced approach that honours both tradition and progress.
Looking ahead, I trust that the sun, the essence of the island, will continue to shine brightly on Hvar.
In the opinion of locals, and with recognition from Condé Nast Traveller, Travel + Leisure, Wanderlust, and more, Hvar stands amongst the world’s most beautiful islands.
Visit Hvar. Feel Hvar. Love Hvar.
Hvar’s UNESCO-Listed Assets
Well-known for its natural, cultural, and historical significance, Hvar is home to no less than five UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage-listed traditions and practices.
ZA KRIŽEN, or ‘Following the Cross’, is a profoundly religious celebration that showcases the island’s rich traditions and beliefs, attracting many participants and visitors during the Easter season. Dating back to the 16th century, the procession passes through Hvar’s main towns, led by a cross-bearer.
The island’s lace-making technique, meanwhile, is practised exclusively by the Benedictine sisters of Hvar Town and involves creating intricate lace from agave plant leaf fibres. A traditional craft that originated over 130 years ago, large pieces can take between five and six months to complete due to their unique designs.
Then there’s Hvar’s traditional construction technique, dry stone walling, which creates the island’s characteristic ‘stone lace’, contributing to its picturesque landscapes. This method is typically used to create pens for livestock and is an essential component of the island’s cultural identity.
More than just food, the Mediterranean diet of Hvar also
encompasses a way of life and rich cultural traditions. Dating back centuries, fresh seafood, fruit, and vegetables, alongside carefully produced wines, play an important part in the Dalmatian diet.
Last but not least, traditional klapa singing resonates deeply with the island’s spirit and is typically performed a cappella. Expressing the cultural identity of the entire Dalmatian region, klapa songs can be distinguished by their musical and lyrical content, whilst singers perform standing in a tight semicircle.
In addition, Stari Grad Plain, also known as Ager, is the island’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. The unique plain has remained largely untouched since 384 BCE when the island was colonised by ancient Greece. An archaic agricultural landscape that narrates Hvar’s storied past, the plain features ancient stone walls and a geometrical system of land division, thought to be tangible evidence of Greek influence.
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Eat:
FOR TANTILISING TASTING NOTES...
Explore Vina Tomić, where endless grape varieties, a steady climate, and years of expertise are the perfect recipe for unforgettable wine. Owner, Andro Tomić, has dedicated his life to wine and oenology, today producing up to 150,000 bottles per year from his vineyard. Extensive wine tasting programmes are on offer, accompanied by Croatian delicacies such as prosciutto, cheese, and olive oil. Vina Tomić’s most popular bottle, the Plavac Mali, is a must-try for connoisseurs.
FOR TRADITIONAL CUISINE...
Visit Giaxa in Hvar Town to sample the island’s signature dish of gregada – a fragrant stew comprising white fish, potatoes, onions, garlic, and local olive oil. Housed in a 15th century, Late Gothicstyle Venetian palace, the restaurant boasts a storied past. Offering three-course tasting menus from the freshest seasonal ingredients and baking its own bread, this carefully curated culinary gem is not to be missed.
Do:
FOR A FRAGRANT FORAY...
Known as ‘Lavender Island’ by many, Hvar is home to endless rolling lilac hills during the early summer months when the quaint villages of Zastražišće, Gdinj, and Bogomolje enjoy a sea breeze infused with the soothing scent of lavender. A testament to the island’s agricultural legacy, the lavender fields are best enjoyed in June or July for a particularly aromatic experience.
FOR AN INSIGHTFUL DEEP DIVE...
Explore the Paulina shipwreck, a sunken English merchant ship dating back around 150 years. Residing 30 metres below sea level, the wooden vessel houses John Dories and conger eels and is covered by vibrant yellow sea sponges. Guided tours are available to discover the diverse marine wildlife and uncover the histories of this wreck’s storied past.
Sleep:
FOR A PEACEFUL ESCAPE...
Cast Away offers the opportunity to relax and unwind in a stunning seafront location. Located close to the remote village of Gromin Dolac in the south of Hvar, this scenic resort offers 10 spacious beach huts equipped with comfortable facilities and endless views of the Adriatic Sea. Escape the hustle and bustle and relax in one of the resort’s hammocks as the gentle waves ebb and flow.
FOR FIRST-CLASS INDULGENCE….
Whether participating in pampering spa treatments or indulging at the pool bar, Hotel Moeesy, Blue & Green Oasis is a serene utopia that truly represents luxury. Those seeking an adventure can partake in nearby scuba diving, snorkelling, and body surfing, whilst the hotel’s promenade by the sea presents breathtaking views. Meanwhile, the resort’s innovative use of solar panels guarantees an ecoconscious stay.
Landmark Attractions
Pokonji Dol Lighthouse
A scenic boat ride to Pokonji Dol Lighthouse takes you along a rugged coastline, revealing vibrant Mediterranean landscapes. As one of Hvar’s most iconic coastal landmarks, the lighthouse looms over turquoise waters and pebble beaches, offering a rewarding vista for those who embark on the journey.
Fortica Fortress
Perched high above Hvar Town, Fortica Fortress offers sweeping views over the Adriatic Sea and nearby islands. Built in the 16th century, this historic stronghold provides a glimpse into Hvar’s defensive past with its ancient walls, storied battlements, and striking panoramic lookouts.
Pakleni Islands
Just a short boat ride from Hvar, the Pakleni Islands are an enchanting archipelago with secluded beaches, azure waters, and hidden coves. Ideal for snorkelling, sunbathing, or exploring by kayak, the islands combine natural beauty and tranquillity, making them an idyllic escape from bustling Hvar Town.
Getting There and Around
HVAR IS accessible from major international destinations and is wellconnected domestically.
To reach the destination from around the globe, travellers can fly into Split Airport (SPU), which offers year-round services from major European hubs such as London, Paris, and Frankfurt, alongside seasonal routes from North America and Asia.
From Split, a convenient ferry or catamaran service providing direct access to Hvar runs frequently during the summer months, taking approximately one to two hours to reach the island depending on the route.
For those arriving in Croatia by road, Split is easily reached via the country’s A1 motorway, which runs along the Adriatic coastline. From here, travellers can utilise daily car ferries that dock in Stari Grad.
Upon arrival, navigating Hvar is straightforward with public buses connecting major hubs such as Hvar Town, Stari Grad, and Jelsa, offering an affordable and scenic way to get around the island. However, renting a car, scooter, or bicycle can provide visitors with greater flexibility alongside access to the secluded beaches and inland villages unreachable by public transport.
Taxis are readily available across Hvar’s main towns and ports, while private boat rentals offer an unforgettable way to explore the island’s surrounding coves and nearby Pakleni Islands.
In terms of accessibility, some beaches have introduced accessible ramps, pathways, and beach chairs for wheelchair users, whilst public buses are increasingly equipped with ramps for disabled access.
In short, the island’s transportation options seek to make the destination an easily navigable paradise for all.
Sint Eustatius
A Caribbean island with a difference, visitors can wander the coal-coloured shores of Sint Eustatius, take in its fascinating colonial roots, and witness a vibrant underwater world
WRITER: LUCY PILGRIM | PROJECT MANAGER: JOSEPH PERFITT
As the heart of the Dutch Caribbean, history infuses every corner of Sint Eustatius, with a storied past steeped in colonialism and trade.
Known locally as Statia, its intriguing heritage is the result of having been under French, British, and Dutch rule, changing hands 22 times before the latter eventually regained ownership of the island in 1816. As such, Sint Eustatius’ historical narrative has had a major influence on its modern-day architecture and culture.
Thanks to its ties with the Dutch West India Company (WIC), Sint Eustatius became a commercial trade centre throughout the 19th century and was heavily involved in Caribbean slavery. Moreover, the island was a key port in the American Revolutionary War and was also the site of the ‘First Salute’ as an American merchant ship entered Fort Oranje.
With such a winding history of international significance, travellers to Sint Eustatius can’t help but be immersed in its fascinating and momentous past.
Unlike its Caribbean counterparts, the island is fringed by black shores caused by eroded volcanic materials, a stark contrast from the white sandy beaches that typify its
neighbouring territories. However, visitors should not be deterred, as Sint Eustatius holds many hidden bays and long stretches of warming sand that make the perfect spot for visitors to relax and unwind.
Sint Eustatius’ myriad colourful diving sites also make for an unforgettable experience, as the island’s vibrant, turquoise waters contain majestic coral reefs and migrating channels for the world’s most exquisite fish species.
For those looking to delve deeper under the water’s surface, Sint Eustatius has two dive centres where aquanauts can choose between 36 diving sites across the island.
Above all, visitors to Sint Eustatius will immediately be taken in by the island’s warming hospitality and diverse culture, as over 20 nationalities call it their home. Tourists can likewise experience home comforts thanks to a vast array of accommodation, from luxurious and indulgent hotels to off-the-beaten-path, local boutiques.
As a destination of engrossing historical significance and breathtaking sea and landscapes, Sint Eustatius sets itself apart as the hidden haven of the Caribbean.
Industry Insights
Statia Tourism
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND to highlight Sint Eustatius as a key contender in Caribbean destination holidays, Statia Tourism ensures that travellers discover all there is to offer on this unique island.
Maya Pandt, Product Development Manager, opens our eyes to Sint Eustatius’ fascinating ties to colonial and Jewish heritage and explains how the board promotes sustainable tourism across the island.
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, please introduce us to Statia Tourism –what is your vision and mission?
Maya Pandt, Product Development Manager (MP): Our vision is for Statia
to be recognised as an authentic and sustainable destination. It is an island of memorable and unique culture and nature-based experiences in a peaceful and tranquil setting amongst friendly people who take pride in their identity, cultural heritage, and natural environment.
OT: How do you promote Sint Eustatius as a destination, and what makes it different from other Caribbean islands?
MP: Statia is promoted in various destination marketing publications, on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, and in collaboration with neighbouring
islands’ tourism entities.
Statia does not have the white sand beaches to attract beach lovers, however, we do have amazing diving experiences with several wreck dive sites, breathtaking hikes for nature lovers, and well-maintained historical areas that tell the story of Statia’s past.
OT: As an island teeming with heritage, what historical attractions await travellers to Sint Eustatius?
MP: Statia has various historical sites that give travellers a sense of what occurred on our little island, including the Honen Dalim synagogue and Jewish cemetery, both opened in 1739; the Dutch Reformed Church
built in 1755 that has ties to President Roosevelt; and Fort Oranje, where the ‘First Salute’ to the US happened.
Simon Doncker House, an 18th century mansion built by wealthy merchant Simon Doncker, is now a museum that chronicles Statia’s history with exhibits of colonial trade and slavery, its Jewish community, and the famous ‘First Salute’. In the basement, there are also artefacts from the pre-Columbian era.
OT: What other unique landmarks and activities can visitors enjoy on the island?
MP: Zeelandia Beach is a unique landmark as it’s the location where
“Our vision is for Statia to be recognised as an authentic and sustainable destination”
– MAYA PANDT, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, STATIA TOURISM
leatherback turtles arrive to nest. Although it’s not safe to swim there due to the strong Atlantic currents, the beautiful stretch of sand is ideal for picnics, beach sports, and, at night, beautiful star gazing with bonfires.
OT: How can travellers also embrace sustainable tourism and nature on their visit?
MP: Travellers can assist in sustainable tourism by reducing plastic usage, respecting the island’s nature laws, such as not breaking plants or feeding animals in the wild, and not touching the coral reefs or taking archaeological artefacts when diving. Visitors can also engage more in local and cultural heritage.
OT: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Sint Eustatius in 2025,
and are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry going into next year?
MP: Statia is a unique, safe destination with friendly people, great diving spots, an interesting history, and relaxing nature hikes.
We always have to be optimistic, and with increased marketing efforts, we can put Statia in the spotlight for visitors who will appreciate what we have to offer.
Built in 1739 and an emblem of the island’s Jewish heritage, the Honen Dalim synagogue is one of the oldest in the Western Hemisphere.
THE TWO-STOREY RUIN offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jews who arrived on Sint Eustatius around the early 1700s, with the island’s status as a key trading epicentre at the time said to have drawn the diaspora.
Built from yellow bricks transported from the Netherlands in 1739, the structure tied together Sint Eustatius’ historical roots. However, by the 1800s, the vast Jewish community had significantly diminished, leaving the temple abandoned.
Today, visitors can gaze upon the remnants of this once bustling communal site. For example, the ruin still has the
boreholes that supported the beams of the ladies’ gallery. Elsewhere, travellers can follow in the footsteps of those before them by ascending the remains of a stone staircase leading to the gallery.
For those who wish to find out more about the history of the island’s Jewish community, the Jewish cemetery, located in the town of Oranjestad, holds a small collection of gravestones dating between 1739 and 1824. The burial site tells the sombre story of the Jewish populations that tried to avoid the wrath of British troops, making the cemetery an important reminder of the island’s past.
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FOR SPACIOUS, STYLISH ROOMS IN A PRIME LOCATION…
The Old Gin House combines old-fashioned charm and vast oceanfront views for all guests. Nestled amongst beautiful 18th century restorations, visitors can relax in comfortable and affordable rooms with plenty of amenities, as well as stylishly furnished suites, all with their own secluded balcony space. Diners can delight in a fruity cocktail whilst looking out over the shimmering waters at the resort’s in-house restaurant, tucking into carefully prepared plates and some of the best beverages the island has to offer.
Do:
FOR IMMERSING YOURSELF IN THE ULTIMATE ISLAND EXPERIENCE...
Golden Rock Dive and Nature Resort delights visitors with the full island package, offering stunning island-guided tours and once-in-a-lifetime diving expeditions, coupled with stylish and comfortable rooms and blissfully relaxing facilities.
Guests can choose from a plethora of both leisurely and adrenaline-filled activities, ranging from long hikes around the national parks to otherworldly stargazing, unmissable sunset boat cruises, and even fun-filled bee experiences.
After an action-packed day, visitors can unwind at the resort’s rock spa, dip their toes in one of the many pools and lagoons, or be hypnotised by the exquisite ecosystem of birds, butterflies, and trees.
Eat:
FOR AUTHENTIC AND DELICIOUS CUISINE... There is a variety of restaurants to choose from, from local to international, where travellers can find something to please the tastebuds.
Address: Oranjestad, Bonaire, Saint Eustatius and Saba
Phone: +599 318 3291
Email: reservations@4piekservices.com
Facebook: 4-Piek Services N.V.
Landmark Attractions
Fort Oranje
A monument of Dutch occupation, Fort Oranje was erected in 1636 and has since been intricately restored to give history lovers a unique insight into the Dutch architecture that once scattered the island. The fort comprises cannon sites, formidable triple bastions, and a hardy selection of canons, which look out to the sweeping Oranje Bay.
Sint Eustatius Historical Foundation Museum
This 18th century grandiose manor house showcases Sint Eustatius’ most cherished relics and historical artefacts. The museum was the former home of Simon Doncker and one of the island’s oldest plantations, dating back to 1740. As such, the museum paints a picture of Sint Eustatius’ historical roots in colonialism and delves into the historic ‘First Salute’ to the US.
Quill National Park
These emerald hills are home to the bridled quail-dove and red-billed tropicbird that darts between the trees. Visitors can also feast their eyes on The Quill, a dormant volcano that offers a multitude of hiking trails for experienced mountaineers. Quill National Park also includes other natural spectacles including the White Wall, a stunning limestone formation that is a must-see.
Getting There and Around
TO REACH SINT Eustatius by air, travellers must fly from Sint Maarten, a neighbouring Dutch Caribbean island that has flights available from Amsterdam and Paris as well as myriad locations in the US. Once safely in Sint Maarten, travellers can fly to Sint Eustatius in just 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can access the island via regular ferry services from St Kitts with Makana Ferry Services, whose boats carry 149 passengers
with both indoor and outdoor seating available. Not only is this form of travel reliable and affordable, but it also gives tourists the opportunity to see the sparkling waters of the island whilst convening with some of the locals and fellow travellers.
Once on solid ground, there are a plethora of car rental options for seeing all the delights of Sint Eustatius up close, with travellers only requiring a valid foreign or international driver’s
license. However, be aware that the island has a limited road network that primarily follows the coast.
If you prefer to be a passenger princess, travellers can also rent a taxi for the day and be whisked around some of the island’s most memorable landmarks.
Alternatively, a vast network of hiking trails and walking paths allows you to immerse in the island’s flora and fauna and unique culture.
Sint Eustatius
Canon at the historic fortress of Fort Oranje
Cabo Verde
Comprising soaring mountain rises, emerald pastures, and a highly unique and authentic musical heritage still enjoyed by many, Cabo Verde delights with its infectiously joyous atmosphere
WRITER: LUCY PILGRIM | PROJECT MANAGER: JOSEPH PERFITT
THE 10 ISLANDS OF CABO VERDE
• Sal
• Boa Vista
• Maio
• Santa Luzia
• Santiago
• Santa Antão
• São Nicolau
• São Vicente
• Fogo
• Brava
As the jagged and spirited neighbour of West Africa, Cabo Verde offers a mountains cape that disrupts the soaring skies of the North Atlantic Ocean.
Comprising 10 volcanic islands, the archipelago was formed from powerful magma erupting from the depths of the sea. Today, travellers and residents alike are humbled by its verdant brilliance and rugged dominance, offering a multitude of unique and spectacular sights including Pico do Fogo, the largest peak in Cabo Verde’s lofty collective.
From the skies to the sand, the country’s beaches have a reputation for being some of the best in the world, as travellers are blessed with sunshine all year round.
Gently floating through the vast skies above the ocean, beachgoers may notice iridescent colours cast by the abundance of kitesurfing, which has become a keen pastime in recent years. To fully experience the delights of this emerging sport, travellers are best advised to visit Cabo Verde in kitesurfing season between October and May.
Hotspots for the activity include Cabo San Lucas, with vast stretches of uninterrupted sand offering powerful winds. Additionally, the island of Sal is home to the aptly named Kite Beach, one of the nation’s most beloved kitesurfing spots for both professionals and those just starting out.
Taking a gentle stroll, travellers will migrate from the
tranquil atmosphere of the beach to the thrilling chaos and vibrancy of Cabo Verde’s colourful towns and welcoming communities. The kindness of the locals is perfectly characterised by ‘MORABEZA’, exuding the instinctive warmth and hospitality of Cabo Verdean people that extends to every traveller.
At the heart of the nation’s culture are the rich, erratic, and fun sounds of the islands’ music scene. One genre, the funaná, is most distinctly characterised by its joyful accordion melodies. Morna, meanwhile, is the country’s national music style and steeped in the archipelago’s heritage, sprinkled with undulating rhythms, exquisite poetry, and communal dance.
Cabo Verdean music cannot be explored without mentioning the batuque, an electric and vibrant dance genre that enraptures the ears with thundering drums and indescribable spirit.
Considered to be one of the oldest music styles, it had a revival in the 1990s, giving the genre a new style and deserved popularity. This was particularly the case when pop music icon Madonna brought a group of batuque drummers on tour, delighting millions of listeners.
The vibrancy and contagious spirit of its people, the spectacle of its magnificent mountains, and the streaming sunshine make Cabo Verde a highly diverse and colourful destination.
Industry Insights
MARTINS,
Cabo Verde Tourism Institute
A GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIARY
and the official travel portal for the archipelago, the Cabo Verde Tourism Institute (CTVI) promotes the magic of the country on an international scale. The institute works hard to market the warmth of the nation’s people, its adrenaline-filled sporting activities, and plethora of wonderous carnivals and festivities.
Dr Carlos Jorge Duarte Santos, Minister of Tourism and Transport, and Francisco Martins, Executive Member, tell us how the government actively supports the tourism industry and why Cabo Verde should be at the top of travellers’ bucket lists for 2025.
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, can you talk us through CTVI’’s purpose and mission?
Francisco Martins, Executive Member (FM): CVTI is a government body that falls under the supervision of the Ministry of Tourism and Transport, which has its statutes approved by law and responds as a National Central Entity for the execution of the government’s public policies in areas such as regulation, inspection, licensing, destination promotion, training, and other responsibilities.
OT: How does the Ministry of Tourism
and Transport support the industry in Cabo Verde?
Dr Carlos Jorge Duarte Santos, Minister of Tourism and Transport (CJDS): The Ministry of Tourism and Transport, the governmental department, defines public policies and the strategy of the tourism industry within the scope of the government programme, incorporated in the Strategic Plan for Sustainable Development (PEDS), which chose tourism as a locomotive of development and the sector that induces all economic activities. In such a way, tourism represents 25
FRANCISCO
EXECUTIVE MEMBER
DR CARLOS JORGE DUARTE SANTOS, MINISTER OF TOURISM AND TRANSPORT
percent of GDP, being the sector that creates the most jobs, especially for young people, the majority of whom are women.
OT: How do you promote Cabo Verde and everything it has to offer as a travel destination?
FM: Over the years, CVTI has actively promoted the country at international fairs to issuing merchants in conjunction with large operators and incoming agencies in Cabo Verde. Recently, the definition of a new diversification strategy for both products and the market, following
the guidelines of our Strategic Marketing Plan and our social and digital networking, have been strong vectors of promotion.
Another form of promotion that has had very positive results is the organisation of and participation in major events, both in the country and abroad, as well as the sponsorship of water sports events, namely kitesurfing, windsurfing, and sport fishing.
It is also worth highlighting that Cabo Verde recently approved a new tourist brand slogan: ‘Cabo Verde, From the Heart’.
OT: In what ways has Cabo Verde’s tourism industry evolved since you became Minister of Tourism and Transport in 2020?
CJDS: My entry into the government practically coincided with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2020 and 2021, we therefore focused on implementing measures to mitigate the effects. This ultimately impacted all economic activity, causing a financial contraction of around 20 percent and more than 20,000 job losses.
We responded quickly with an extended and successful vaccination
“In Q1 2024, we carried out the rebranding of Cabo Verde’s tourist offering based on ‘MORABEZA’, meaning ‘Cabo Verde, from the heart’ in English”
– DR CARLOS JORGE DUARTE SANTOS, MINISTER OF TOURISM AND TRANSPORT, MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND TRANSPORT
campaign and promoted the tourism industry’s recovery in 2021 with an ambitious tourism renaissance plan, whose main pillars were health and safety, product diversification, sustainability, company support for employment and families, training and valuation of tourism professionals, and the introduction of the Tourism Operational Programme (POT).
It was a very challenging period, and certainly one with much unpredictability, but in light of the current reality, we can say that we managed to overcome it and get the country back on the right path safely. In 2022, POT was approved by the government and financed by the state and World Bank. Budgeted at around €235 million and set to last until 2026, POT is structured into five sub-programmes:
• Requalification of tourist offerings that aim to qualify and diversify tourism experiences.
• Governance that aims to reinforce institutional articulation and tourism and local planning.
• Tourism promotion that primarily aims to implement the marketing plan, focusing on digital marketing and important projects to improve regional and maritime connectivity.
• Sustainability that aims to respond to the sector’s environmental, social, and economic challenges.
• HR Requalification that complements the diversification and qualification of the national tourism product through the extensive training of young people in segments already identified as priorities.
We also organise major international events in the country, such as the 64th Regional Commission for Africa (CAF), under the auspices of UN Tourism, maintaining Cabo Verde’s status as a member of the Executive Board for the second consecutive term.
In addition to cultural festivals, Cabo Verde also holds international events. In 2023, the country held the first International Conference on Nature Tourism.
In terms of transport, we moved forward with the restructuring of Cabo Verde Airlines and introduced a new strategy for approaching the business, aiming to reinforce the company’s internal capacity while investing in traditional destinations such as Lisbon (Portugal), Paris (France), Bergamo (Italy), and Barcelona (Spain). We plan
to announce new routes by the end of this year.
Meanwhile, a design contract was signed with VINCI for the management of the country’s airports, which is part of the strategy to modernise and improve the efficiency of airlines. This agreement was made with the aim of attracting and promoting new air connections to and from Cabo Verde. Law reforms in tourism and transport are also being carried out with a view to improving connectivity in air and sea links to the country.
This year, we also reached our much-desired target of one million guests. This confirms the industry’s strong recovery after the pandemic, with the number of visitors and overnight stays registering growth of between 20 and 26 percent, respectively, compared to the previous year and surpassing the values recorded before the pandemic in 2019.
In Q1 2024, we carried out the rebranding of Cabo Verde’s tourist
offering based on ‘MORABEZA’, meaning ‘Cabo Verde, from the heart’ in English. As a result, we are spreading the identity of the people and their unique hospitality to those who visit us, becoming the symbol and image of tourist promotion inside and outside of the country.
Next October, due to an agreement between the Cabo Verdean government and EasyJet, we will begin the first low-cost operation from Lisbon and Porto to the country.
In summary, these are some of the important measures and achievements that are part of the government’s strategy to enhance and develop Cabo Verde as a more attractive, competitive, and sustainable tourist destination, having a positive impact on current and future generations.
OT: In what ways can travellers experience the true essence of ‘morabeza’?
FM: Visitors arriving in Cabo Verde
have increasingly ventured out of the resorts and hotels and travelled throughout the islands in search of local experiences, especially to sample local cuisine and music which are key parts of Cape Verdean culture. There is also an increase in tourists who love trekking and ecotourism, particularly on the islands of Santo Antão, Santiago, and Fogo.
OT: How would you recommend visitors best experience Creole and Cabo Verdean culture?
CJDS: Fly to our islands and enjoy the sun, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters 365 days a year on the islands of Sal, Boa Vista, and Maio. Walk around the city of Mindelo, discover and visit the museums, and immerse yourself in the carnivals, music, and gastronomy festivals that take place throughout the year across all the islands. Don’t forget Pico do Fogo, the splendid and unique active stratovolcano on Fogo Island, where you can taste a unique, locally
“Visitors arriving in Cabo Verde have increasingly ventured out of the resorts and hotels and travelled throughout the islands in search of local experiences, especially to sample local cuisine and music which are key parts of Cape Verdean culture”
– FRANCISCO MARTINS, EXECUTIVE MEMBER, CABO VERDE TOURISM INSTITUTE
produced wine. Visit the Cidade Velha (Old Town) – the first to be built by the Portuguese in the tropics and Cabo Verde’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Travellers can also choose the pedestrian paths on Santo Antão, São Nicolau, Santiago, Fogo, and Brava,
which connect the islands from north to south through valleys, mountains, and the sea coast, each with stunning landscapes and welcoming people.
FM: To be immersed in music festivals, let yourself be rocked by morna, a genre and rhythm immortalised by
the eternal singer Cesária Évora and classified by UNESCO on its Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
Discover the rich historical heritage, namely the Cidade Velha, delight in the sounds and rhythms of songs such as Kola San Jon and genres like the coladeira and funaná, and explore the rich and varied local gastronomy, including Cabo Verde’s national dish, the famous Cachupa.
OT: What upcoming events can travellers in Cabo Verde look forward to?
FM: The country is rich in music festivals and other cultural events.
The most popular ones that should be mentioned are the Santa Maria Festival, Mindelact theatre association, GKA Kite-Surf World Cup, Mindelo Carnival, Kriol Jazz Festival, Atlantic Music Expo, Kavala Fresk Festival, and Baía das Gatas Festival, alongside many other religious and cultural festivities in the country’s 22 municipalities throughout the year.
OT: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Cabo Verde?
CJDS: Due to the work that has been done in recent years, the numbers that have been recorded, and above
all, the very positive and adequate response during the fight against the pandemic, I believe that the future of tourism in Cabo Verde will have a very positive impact on the country’s development and, consequently, people’s lives.
We are confident and anticipate we will reach the target of 1.2 million tourists in 2024 and further induce the growth of economic activity linked to the agriculture, agribusiness, fishing, and creative industries in the tourism value chain.
OT: Finally, what can travellers expect from Cabo Verde in 2025?
FM: In addition to all the festivals and events we mentioned, 2025 should be a year of many new features, starting with the opening of a new cruise terminal in São Vicente as well as many new international hotel brands, namely Sheraton and New Horizon, among others, boosted by the start of Operation EasyJet in October with flights from Lisbon and Porto.
Actour Cabo Verde is a specialised travel agency based in Cape Verde with a focus on offering unique trekking and adventure experiences throughout the islands. Our agency is dedicated to showcasing the rich natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes of Cape Verde, particularly in the islands of São Vicente and Santo Antão, where our expertise truly shines.
Main Products and Tour Offerings
Trekking and Hiking Tours
Our flagship products are guided trekking tours designed to immerse travellers in the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Verde. These treks range from easy coastal walks to challenging mountainous hikes, all while offering insights into local flora, fauna, and traditions. Our most popular trekking routes include:
Cultural and Historical Tours
For those seeking a deeper connection to Cape Verde’s history and culture, Actour Cabo Verde provides guided tours to key historical sites such as the UNESCO-listed Cidade Velha in Santiago. These tours often include visits to museums, historical landmarks, and vibrant local markets, giving clients a comprehensive experience of Cape Verdean culture.
Family and Honeymoon Packages
We cater to families and couples looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. For example, our family-friendly programmes blend light hikes with leisure activities, while our honeymoon packages, such as a day of relaxation on the island of Sal, include spa experiences and water sports such as wing foiling.
Island Hopping Tours
Our island-hopping packages allow clients to explore multiple islands in one trip, combining different activities such as hiking,
beach visits, and cultural tours. The itinerary can include stops at São Vicente, Santo Antão, Santiago, Fogo, and Sal, offering diverse experiences from volcanic hikes to historical explorations and beach relaxation.
Locations in Cape Verde
São Vicente: Home to our base in Mindelo, São Vicente is known for its vibrant music scene, lively festivals, and cultural richness.
Santo Antão: A trekker’s dream destination, this island is famous for its dramatic cliffs, fertile valleys, and scenic hiking routes. We specialise in multi-day treks through its rugged terrain.
Santiago: The largest island and home to Cape Verde’s capital, Praia, Santiago offers a mix of history and adventure. Our tours focus on its historical significance and the beauty of Cidade Velha, combined with inland hikes.
Maio, Sal and Boavista islands: Known for their white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, these islands are the go-to destination for relaxation and water sports. We offer customised tours that combine leisure with activities such as windsurfing and kiteboarding. We also have the Fogo Island, where you can visit the volcano.
Our target clientele includes:
• Adventure Enthusiasts
• Cultural Travellers
• Families and Couples
• Sustainable and Eco-Tourism
What is your take on the tourism industry in Cape Verde today? Would you consider it particularly challenging or exciting?
The tourism industry in Cape Verde today is both exciting and challenging, marked by significant growth and evolving dynamics.
• Growth and Opportunities
Reviews: “The majestic landscapes were diverse and breathtaking.” | “We are delighted
Cape Verde has seen steady growth in tourism over the past decades, driven by its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The archipelago offers a diverse experience, from the beaches of Sal and Boa Vista to the mountains of Santo Antão and the historical richness of Santiago. This diversity makes it an attractive destination for various types of travellers, including adventure seekers, beach lovers, and cultural tourists.
• Challenges in the Industry
However, the tourism industry in Cape Verde does face several challenges. One significant obstacle is the country’s dependence on foreign investors, especially in the hotel and resort sector, leading to a less inclusive distribution of tourism-generated revenue within the local population. Developing more locally owned businesses, such as guesthouses, restaurants, and tour operators, would help retain more economic benefits in Cape Verde.
Another challenge is the country’s geographic isolation, which can make travel expensive and limit direct flights from major markets. Though there has been progress in-flight connectivity, the relatively high cost of travel to Cape Verde remains a barrier for some potential tourists.
The environmental impact of tourism also presents concerns. With the increase in visitor numbers, there is a growing need to implement sustainable tourism practices. Over-tourism in certain areas, especially beach destinations, poses a risk to local ecosystems. This is where the industry needs to find a balance between growth and preservation, particularly on islands like Sal and Boa Vista, where large resorts dominate.
• Sustainability and Future Prospects
On the brighter side, Cape Verde has a unique opportunity to lead in sustainable tourism practices. Initiatives such as eco-friendly lodges, renewable energy projects, and community-based tourism ventures are gaining traction. These efforts not only protect the environment but also provide more authentic, enriching experienc-
excitement lies in the potential to shape an industry that is sustainable, inclusive, and enriching for both visitors and locals alike.
In summary, while the tourism industry in Cape Verde has its challenges - ranging from limited infrastructure to environmental concerns - it is full of exciting opportunities. With its unique offerings and growing global appeal, Cape Verde is well-positioned to thrive as a tourist destination, provided it continues to focus on sustainable growth and local involvement.
What, for you, differentiates Actour Cabo Verde from the competition?
Actour Cabo Verde stands out from the competition due to several key factors that reflect its deep connection to Cabo Verde, personalised service, and commitment to sustainable tourism.
Local Expertise and Authentic Experiences: One of Actour Cabo Verde’s strongest differentiators is its deep-rooted connection to Cabo Verde, especially the islands of São Vicente and Santo Antão. Being locally based, our team has an intimate knowledge of the terrain, culture, and hidden gems of the archipelago. This allows us to create authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences that other agencies, especially non-local ones, might not be able to offer.
Tailored and Personalised Itineraries: At Actour Cabo Verde, we pride ourselves on offering personalised itineraries based on the unique preferences of each client. Whether they seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery, we listen closely to their needs and customise the trip accordingly. This level of customisation ensures that every journey feels special and tailor-made, which can be hard to find in more standardised packages offered by larger tour operators.
With proper investment in infrastructure, environmental preservation, and community-based tourism, Cape Verde can continue to grow as a competitive player in the global tourism market. The
Focus on Sustainable Tourism: We are strongly committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices. Our itineraries are designed to respect the environment, support local communities, and reduce the ecological footprint of our travellers. We collaborate with local lodges, restaurants, and guides, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are felt locally.
Unique Trekking and Outdoor Adventures: Actour Cabo Verde specialises in trekking and outdoor activities, offering unique expe-
delighted and highly recommend this experience.” | “Everything went smoothly”
riences that highlight the incredible natural beauty of Cabo Verde. Our trekking circuits, especially on the rugged island of Santo Antão, provide a mix of adventure and breathtaking landscapes. The routes we create are designed not just for physical challenge but also for an immersive exploration of nature, where travellers can connect with the landscape in a way that’s deeply rewarding and rare among competitors.
Local Partnerships and Community Engagement: We have built strong relationships with local businesses, guides, and communities, ensuring that our clients receive top-notch service and local expertise. This collaboration also allows us to contribute to the local economy and foster sustainable tourism practices.
Cultural Immersion and Local Insights: Our guides are passionate about sharing the history, music, and traditions of Cabo Verde. Travellers can experience not only the natural beauty of the islands but also their vibrant culture, from the music scene in Mindelo to the traditional cuisine in small villages. We believe that true travel is about more than sightseeing; it’s about connecting with the soul of a place.
Could you tell us about your all-inclusive package offering, which grants participants full control over their itinerary? How does this enable you to offer personalised, customisable trekking tours?
At Actour Cabo Verde, our all-inclusive package is designed to give participants complete control over their trekking adventure, allowing them to fully personalise their experience based on their preferences and fitness level. The package covers everything a traveller might need, including accommodation, meals, transportation, guided tours, and any necessary equipment. This ensures a seamless experience where participants can focus on enjoying their journey while we handle the logistics.
How the all-inclusive package enables personalised, customisable trekking tours:
Flexible Itinerary Creation:
One of the key features of this package is the flexibility it provides. Travellers have the freedom to design their itinerary by selecting the trekking routes, duration, difficulty levels, and key activities. Whether they want to explore the rugged mountains of Santo Antão, discover the cultural history of Santiago, or simply take in the beauty of the coastline, the itinerary is tailored to match their interests.
Adaptation to Individual Preferences:
Our expert team works closely with each traveller or group to understand their goals, preferences, and physical capacities. Whether it’s an adventurous high-altitude trek, a moderate walk through the valleys, or a relaxed coastal hike, we make sure the tour is customised to suit their comfort level. For example, some might prioritise more challenging routes with steep ascents, while others might opt for gentler paths with cultural or scenic stops.
Personalised Services:
The all-inclusive package includes not only guided treks but also options like private transport, accommodation choices (from cosy guesthouses to more luxurious stays), and meal preferences. Travellers can request specific experiences, such as a local cooking class or a traditional cultural evening, further personalising the trip.
Exclusive Experiences and Flexibility in Timing:
Participants have the ability to modify their itinerary as they go, depending on how they feel or what they want to explore further. They are not tied to a rigid schedule. If they wish to spend an extra day at a scenic spot or extend a particular hike, we can adjust the programme accordingly, offering an unmatched level of flexibility.
Expert Guidance:
Our team of local guides has extensive knowledge of the landscapes, wildlife, and history of Cape Verde. They are skilled in adapting the trekking tours based on real-time conditions (e.g., weather or trail challenges) and ensuring participants’ safety while keeping the experience enjoyable. This personal guidance enhances the customisation aspect, as the guide can offer suggestions and make adjustments on the spot based on the group’s preferences.
How does your team of local guides and drivers, many of whom have grown up in Cape Verde, enable you to share authentic, unforgettable experiences with visitors?
At Actour Cabo Verde, our team of local guides and drivers plays a crucial role in delivering authentic and memorable experiences to our visitors. Many of our team members have grown up in Cape Verde, giving them an intimate understanding of the islands’ culture, history, landscapes, and traditions. This local expertise allows them to offer deep insights and unique perspectives that go beyond typical tourist experiences.
Reviews: “The drivers were punctual and cautious. Thank you for this flawless experience!”
• Personalised and Flexible Tours
• Deep Cultural Connection
• Access to Hidden Gems
• Local Language and Communication
• Support for Local Communities
• Eco-Friendly and Responsible Tourism
• Authentic Storytelling
• Safety and Comfort
In conclusion, our team of local guides and drivers brings more than just professional skills to the table—they bring their lifelong connection to Cape Verde. Their knowledge, cultural understanding, and passion for their homeland enable them to create truly authentic and unforgettable experiences for visitors, leaving a lasting impression long after the trip ends.
As well as offering comprehensive trekking tours of Cape Verde, your company is also known for its commitment to sustainable, responsible tourism. Could you talk more about this?
At Actour Cabo Verde, our commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism is a core part of our mission. We believe that tourism should positively impact both the environment and the local communities we work with. Here’s how we approach it:
• Environmental Responsibility: We design our tours to minimise the environmental footprint. This includes carefully planning trekking routes to avoid fragile ecosystems, limiting the number of participants on each tour to reduce impact, and encouraging guests to adopt “leave no trace” practices.
• Supporting Local Communities: Our tours prioritise local partnerships, which means we work closely with small businesses, local guides, artisans, and accommodation providers.
• Cultural Preservation: Cape Verde is rich in culture and history, and we make it a point to integrate this into our tours. We aim to create authentic, respectful experiences that celebrate local traditions, language, and customs.
We are in the process of obtaining certification for sustainable tourism, which will formalise our commitment. We already apply eco-friendly practices by choosing accommodations with green certifications, using renewable energy where possible, and reducing our carbon emissions
by promoting walking tours and eco-friendly transportation options.
Looking ahead, what are your key priorities for the coming year? Are you aiming to hit any specific targets, reach any goals, expand, or diversify at all?
For the coming year, our key priorities at Actour Cabo Verde include:
• Enhancing Client Experience: We aim to improve the overall experience for our clients by refining our itineraries, offering personalised travel options, and ensuring high standards of customer service.
• Expanding Our Market Reach: We plan to target new markets and increase our visibility both locally and internationally.
• Diversifying Our Offerings: To cater to a broader audience, we will diversify our range of tours and services.
• Sustainability Initiatives: We are committed to advancing our sustainability efforts. This involves working closely with local communities, ensuring our operations have minimal environmental impact, and promoting eco-friendly practices in all our tours.
• Technology Integration: Implementing advanced technology to streamline booking processes, improve communication, and enhance the overall efficiency of our operations is a priority.
• Staff Development: Investing in training and development for our staff to enhance their skills and knowledge, ensuring they can provide the highest level of service and expertise to our clients.
Contact us:
2110 - Mindelo - São Vicente, Cap Vert
Tel: +2389143524
Email: info@actourhiking.com
Website: www.actourhiking.com
“Our guide took us to explore Santo Antao with kindness and professionalism.”
KRIOL JAZZ FESTIVAL
JAZZ LOVERS FROM across the world gather for Cabo Verde’s Kriol Jazz Festival (KJF), internationally renowned for bringing together the globe’s most beloved jazz artists, putting the country on the music map.
Established in 2009 in Praia, Santiago, the festival has become the beating heart of Cabo Verde’s capital city. Created by Harmonia Lda, a Cabo Verdean musicproducer, and the Praia City Council, the festival centres around the celebration of jazz and Creole culture and how this eclectic fusion of sounds has found a home across the islands.
Occurring every April, it is the perfect opportunity for residents and travellers to come together and immerse themselves in the internationally beloved sound of jazz. It
is only right, therefore, that KJF features some of the best artists in jazz and Creole across the three-day festivity.
Showcasing creatives from myriad cultures and countries, this year’s KJF included Jorge Pardo and Armando Orbon, Kriolatino, Tibau Tavares, and many more.
An important element of each festival is the honouring of legendary jazz artists who have passed, commemorating their lives and the profound impact they have had on the genre. The 2024 edition paid tribute to Nay Fernandes, who thoughtfully composed and produced some of the country’s most well-known morna melodies.
Across 10 stages and with a single passion for music, KJF has become a celebration of all Cabo Verde has given to the world’s symphonies.
RECOMMENDS CABO
Sleep:
FOR SIMPLICITY, SOPHISTICATION, AND SERENITY...
Spinguera Ecolodge is a highly sustainable and deeply charming ecological resort that arose from the restoration of a small fishermen’s village abandoned over 50 years ago. The boutique hotel lives and breathes sustainable tourism, championing social impact, environmental preservation, and appreciation for local cultures and traditions.
Beautifully melting into the sunset shores of Boa Vista, each guest can enjoy an intimate and highly personalised experience in isolated luxury and connected to nature. Each room’s decor is minimal but purposeful, creating a gentle and tranquil atmosphere.
For larger groups of guests, there are also quaint and secluded villas built with natural stone that offer everything visitors may need, including a double bedroom, living area, and kitchen, as well as a blissful
terrace and private relaxation area.
With breathtaking views of the ocean and spectacular views of the desert, Spinguera Ecolodge is unmissable.
Do:
FOR IMMERSING YOURSELF IN CABO VERDE’S ENCHANTING PEAKS...
Actour Trekking (Actour) offers travellers an eyeopening glimpse into Cabo Verde’s most captivating landscapes and intimate corners with unique hiking and trekking trips.
Budding mountaineers have the chance to go on tours with highly experienced and passionate local guides, who provide an insight into the archipelago’s most majestic cultures and provide helpful tips for travelling. Alternatively, hikers can tread their own path through self-guided tours and traverse the area in their own time.
Trekking enthusiasts can put their skills to the
test on a multi-day tour across the heart of São Vicente and Santa Antão, whilst shorter trips are also available for those looking for a serene hike across the undulating terrain.
Offering a total of 11 tour circuits ranging from eight to 12 days in length, every trail covers the abundant diversity of each island, from white sand beaches to bustling towns and towering peaks.
Actour also encourages visitors to customise their trip according to their abilities and sightseeing desires, available in an all-inclusive package. This allows travellers to sit back and relax as the company takes care of all the logistical details of the trek, including accommodation, flights, transport, food, and, of course, local guides.
As part of the package, other exhilarating activities can be integrated seamlessly into the trip, such as diving, hiking, historical sites, and much more.
With a welcoming and friendly group of experienced guides, travellers can delve into the exceptional landscapes of Cabo Verde and live out their dreams of a hiking adventure with Actour.
Landmark Attractions
Pedra de Lume
The site of an extinct volcano on the east coast of Sal, these sweeping salt planes are held in a gigantic crater, dipping several metres (m) below sea level. The pearly white and iridescent pink hues of the salt provide a sight that would be hard to find elsewhere on Earth. Visitors to the crater can experience the unique sensation of weightless floating on saltwater or traversing moon-like crater walls.
Pico do Fogo
This magnanimous stratovolcano, an iconic image often associated with Cabo Verde, disrupts the serene blue skies of Fogo Island, reaching nearly 3,000m above sea level. Travellers should be accompanied by an experienced guide and specialist equipment, as climbing the mountain is no easy task. Nevertheless, the chance to witness the astounding views at the peak certainly makes the challenge worthwhile.
Cidade Velha
This historic town in Ribeira Grande was the first Portuguese outpost in the 1700s. The area is Cabo Verde’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to the pristinely restored original street layout featuring beautifully crumbling churches, a decadent royal fortress, and Pillory Square, dating back to the early 16th century and providing a fascinating glimpse into the country’s history.
Getting There and Around
AS THE IDEAL island-hopping destination, travelling around Cabo Verde couldn’t be easier. One of the most immediate ways to travel is by helicopter or plane, the latter allowing visitors to explore every island to the fullest in a quick, convenient, and efficient way.
Although this is a slightly more expensive option, flights are readily available between airlines and can be easily accessed by Cabo Verde Airlines, the country’s domestic airline.
Those looking for a more cost-effective form of transport a little closer to the ground can utilise numerous ferry services that let visitors ride amongst the North Atlantic Ocean waves. This also gives travellers the unique opportunity to chat with some of the locals, who likewise ride the ferries between islands.
As with all boating trips, many journeys are weatherdependent and subject to different regulations put in place by each island. However, taking the ferry still remains one of the most popular forms of island-hopping.
Once back on solid ground and flourishing in each island’s individual culture, why not catch an aluger?
The local minibuses that regularly travel around on a scheduled route are a highly affordable transport option that lets explorers see what Cabo Verdean life is truly like, as many residents use the service on a daily basis.
Ultimately, Cabo Verde’s extensive and convenient forms of travel invite visitors to island-hop and fully embrace everything the archipelago has to offer.
Feel at home, experience Santo Antão in comfort and style
Each room features air conditioning, a fridge, and coffee and tea-making facilities. This small Belgian-Cape Verdean family business specialises in both traditional and international cuisine, with a plant-based twist.
Lunch or dinner reservations are also accepted at the on-site restaurant.
• GUIDING AND EXCURSIONS
Kasa d’ Vizin is a boutique hotel situated in the lush green valley of Paul, in the village of Eito. The rooms are adorned with Cape Verdean art, whilst offering European-imported comfort.
Mauritius
Whenever you decide to visit, there is something for everyone in Mauritius, as this culturally diverse Pearl of the Indian Ocean offers a variety of experiences beyond sun, sand, and sea
WRITER: JACK SALTER | PROJECT MANAGER: ALFIE WILSON
Mauritius was made first and then heaven; and heaven was copied after Mauritius.”
Mark Twain was evidently captivated by the beauty of this African island, whose palm-fringed beaches are almost entirely circled by colourful coral reefs and crystal-clear waters suitable for swimming, snorkelling, diving, and kayaking all year round.
Indeed, with a mild climate and agreeable average temperatures of 25 degrees Celsius (°C), Mauritius makes for an all-seasons destination, albeit there are only two –summer and winter.
Besides its beautiful sandy beaches, Mauritius charms nature lovers with protected endemic forests, magnificent mountains, curious geology, and historic botanical gardens which date back centuries.
Culture vultures can also step back in time and immerse
in the rich heritage that stems from the diversity of the Mauritian people, who are mainly of European, Asian, and African descent, owing to the country’s colonial history which can be traced through several protected sites.
This has formed an extraordinary mix of different cultures and traditions, which express themselves in the island’s wide selection of music, places of worship, food, and more. The latter is a real feast for the senses, as its unique cuisine has been influenced by these various Afro-Eurasian settlements and forms an important part of Mauritian hospitality.
Tradition coexists with modernity in the cultural melting pot of Port Louis, where you can explore the city’s eclectic market, visit its historical attractions, and savour the flavour of Mauritius’ famous street food – a tour of the capital is therefore a must.
Mauritius Tourism Authority
Lindsay Morvan, Director, talks us through the Mauritius Tourism Authority (MTA), whose primary mission is to regulate and promote sustainable tourism whilst balancing development with the preservation of the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
LINDSAY MORVAN, DIRECTOR
Outlook Travel (OT): Can you talk us through the purpose and mission of MTA?
Lindsay Morvan, Director (LM): As the regulatory and licensing body of the tourism industry in Mauritius, MTA sets high standards across
the sector, promoting eco-friendly initiatives and green certifications to position Mauritius as a worldleading, environmentally-conscious destination by 2030.
It plays a key role in licensing, regulating, and supervising tourism activities, ensuring quality control, fostering corporate governance, and supporting stakeholder coordination to maintain Mauritius as a safe, clean, and customer-oriented destination. Additionally, the authority focuses on enhancing the business climate, promoting sustainability through its Sustainable Tourism Unit, and implementing projects aimed at reducing
environmental impact, such as the Green Destination Status project. Through initiatives like these, MTA ensures the long-term viability and growth of Mauritius’ tourism sector while aligning with global sustainability goals.
OT: How do you promote Mauritius and everything it has to offer as a destination?
LM: Whilst the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) is primarily responsible for promoting the destination, MTA plays a vital role in supporting these efforts through a
“Travellers can fully appreciate the rich cultural diversity of Mauritius by immersing themselves in its vibrant festivals, local cuisine, and diverse communities that reflect the island’s unique blend of Creole, Indian, African, Chinese, and European influences”
– LINDSAY MORVAN, DIRECTOR, MAURITIUS
collaborative, multifaceted approach. Our marketing strategy leverages digital platforms, collaborations with international travel agencies, and participation in global tourism events to highlight the best Mauritius has to offer. We emphasise the island’s
natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and ecotourism opportunities.
As part of our sustainability commitment, we partner with organisations like the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council
(GSTC) to promote sustainable travel initiatives and highlight our efforts towards becoming a green-certified destination by 2030.
Additionally, our marketing campaigns focus on authentic, meaningful experiences, such as connecting with local communities, enjoying the island’s unique cultural heritage, and participating in ecofriendly activities. For instance, we promote sustainable itineraries that showcase local champions like Mauritian artists, freedivers, and nature enthusiasts, offering travellers a more immersive and responsible tourism experience.
“By prioritising sustainability, increasing global partnerships, and creating new tourism experiences rooted in environmental stewardship, we believe Mauritius will remain a top choice for discerning travellers”
We also engage with airlines and cruise lines to ensure seamless access for travellers, making it easy for them to explore Mauritius’ diverse attractions. Through initiatives like the Feel Our Island Energy campaign, which has gained international recognition, we invite visitors to experience the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming spirit of Mauritius.
OT: How can travellers best experience the rich diversity of Mauritius?
LM: Travellers can fully appreciate the rich diversity of Mauritius by immersing themselves in its vibrant festivals, local cuisine, and diverse
communities that reflect the island’s unique blend of Creole, Indian, African, Chinese, and European influences.
We recommend visiting towns such as Port Louis, Mahebourg, and Triolet to witness the daily life and traditions of these various cultures. Attending key cultural festivals like Cavadee, Diwali, Chinese New Year, and the Festival International Kreol (FIK) offer a wonderful opportunity to experience Mauritius’ multi-ethnic traditions through music, dance, and food.
For a deeper connection with the island’s heritage, travellers can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne Cultural Landscape, together with the Intercontinental Slavery Museum.
To make the experience even more authentic, we encourage the use of public transport, including the metro, which not only offers a convenient way to explore the island but also allows visitors to interact with locals and see the island from a resident’s perspective.
Additionally, exploring local markets and engaging in activities such as a table d’hôte meal or Sega dance sessions will enrich travellers’ understanding of Mauritius’ vibrant cultural scene.
OT: Similarly, where should visitors go to truly immerse themselves in the island’s vast flora and fauna?
LM: Visitors should explore some of the island’s remarkable nature reserves and parks, which form part of the vast flora and fauna of Mauritius. A top destination is Black River Gorges National Park, which covers two percent of Mauritius’ land and is home to over 300 species of flowering plants, several endemic bird species, and wildlife such as the giant fruit bat and macaque monkeys.
The park offers more than 50 kilometres (km) of scenic hiking trails, including paths like the Machabee Trail and Black River Peak Trail, which provide opportunities to birdwatch and enjoy nature.
Another must-visit site is Île aux Aigrettes, a nature reserve off the southeast coast where visitors can see endangered species like the pink pigeon and rare ebony forests. La Vallée de Ferney is also ideal for those interested in conservation efforts, as it is dedicated to preserving endemic
species such as the Mauritius kestrel. For marine life enthusiasts, Blue Bay Marine Park offers an underwater experience with coral reefs and vibrant marine biodiversity. Visitors can explore the park through snorkelling and glass-bottom boat tours, making it one of the best places to witness Mauritius’ rich aquatic ecosystem.
OT: What, in your opinion, is one of Mauritius’ most underrated landmarks?
LM: It is quite unfortunate that historical sites like the Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage site that highlights the island’s complex history of indentured labour and its profound influence on Mauritian identity, as well as the Intercontinental Slavery Museum, are among the most underrated landmarks in Mauritius. While many visitors focus on the beaches and resorts, both offer a fascinating insight into the sociocultural evolution of Mauritius and its population and should not be missed.
However, Mauritius is much more than its historical landmarks and beautiful landscapes – it’s also about its people. To truly immerse in the island’s soul, tourists should engage with locals, renowned for their warmth and hospitality. This can be done by exploring vibrant street markets, trying local snacks like dholl puri, gateaux piments, and samosas from street vendors, or visiting small shops to purchase authentic souvenirs. These experiences allow visitors to connect with the local culture and daily life, offering a more authentic and enriching experience.
OT: What upcoming events are happening that tourists can look forward to?
LM: Tourists visiting Mauritius can look forward to a diverse range of exciting upcoming events throughout the year.
For those who love nature and adventure, there are ongoing trails, marathons, and mountain biking challenges like the Colin Mayer Tour, where participants navigate through scenic routes in Mauritius’ coastal and mountainous regions.
In addition, events like the Nandos Open Swim offer competitive openwater swimming at beautiful beaches like Mont Choisy and Pereybere.
Mauritius is also home to a variety of cultural celebrations, such as FIK, a week-long event celebrating the island’s rich Creole heritage through music, dance, art, and cuisine. Similarly, tourists can experience Diwali concerts, which feature captivating cultural performances that celebrate the Festival of Lights across the island.
OT: What makes Mauritius the island to visit in 2025?
LM: Mauritius is evolving into the quintessential eco-friendly destination. In 2025, visitors will not
only enjoy the island’s natural beauty but also partake in sustainable tourism initiatives that align with global environmental goals.
From eco-lodges and plastic-free beaches to our ambitious target of 60 percent renewable energy usage in the tourism sector, we offer a model of responsible travel.
Additionally, the diverse cultural landscape and new glamping experiences provide fresh and innovative ways for travellers to connect with nature and the local community.
OT: Are you optimistic about the future of tourism in Mauritius?
LM: We are totally convinced that Mauritius has a promising future as we continue to work towards becoming a certified green destination by 2030.
By prioritising sustainability, increasing global partnerships, and creating new tourism experiences rooted in environmental stewardship, we believe Mauritius will remain a top choice for discerning travellers.
The shift towards responsible tourism is gaining momentum, and we are fully equipped to meet the demands of this emerging trend.
With eight family-friendly and adults-only hotels in Mauritius, we find out how Attitude Hotels is pushing the boundaries of responsible hospitality.
What’s on your wishlist when looking for a hotel in Mauritius? A swimming pool for a cooling dip in the sunshine? A stretch of soft sand or a location overlooking the clear lagoon? Mauritius has over 100 hotels that tick these boxes, all ready to welcome you with the warm hospitality the island is known for.
But how do you narrow down the choice even further? One hotel group on the island stands out from the crowd for all the right reasons. Attitude offers hotels – but not just hotels. They are hotels that do good. For over 15 years, Attitude Hotels has made bold choices in Mauritius that didn’t always tick the traditional hotel boxes. Why? Because they believe they can run a business that’s socially responsible, too.
That forward-thinking has just earned the Attitude Group the ‘big one’ in terms of responsible holidays: B Corp certification. This is worldwide recognition of the company’s social and environmental actions. So what does this mean when choosing one of Attitude’s eco-committed hotels? It allows you to relax in the pool, stroll along the soft sand and paddleboard over the lagoon, knowing that your holiday in Mauritius is making a difference.
ATTITUDE’S COMMITMENTS
#1 PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT
Free mineral sunscreen
100 percent natural and non-polluting, this cream is offered free of charge in all Attitude Hotels. It’s a local product that helps preserve coral and underwater life.
3,600,000
Attitude has eliminated single-use plastic in the customer experience, avoiding the consumption of 3.6 million items every year.
Bulk Shops
Guests are free to help themselves to tea, coffee, sugar and snacks in the hotel Bulk Shop. You can fill up reusable glass jars and take a selection back to your room without using plastic packaging.
#2 SUPPORT THE LOCAL ECONOMY
Giving priority to local produce
Attitude sources as much as possible from local producers, with over 50 percent of the food and drink served in its hotels coming from suppliers with the Made in Moris label.
Otentik Investments
An investment company has been set up to support local entrepreneurs when they need it most.
Promoting craftsmanship
Attitude is committed to using locally-made furniture. During renovations, at least 75 percent of furniture is made in Mauritius. Attitude has also created the Otentik Bazar, a shop dedicated to helping you discover and purchase creations by local artisans and entrepreneurs.
#3 SUPPORT THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
Promoting local culture
Attitude puts the spotlight on Mauritian artists and supports them so they can make a living from their art. This includes organising Konpoz to Lamizik music competition every year and supporting photo exhibitions, music festivals and talks on issues that unite people.
Best place to work in Mauritius
Attitude Hotels has been voted the #1 Best Workplace in Mauritius (250+ employees) for three years running. The Great Place to Work label recognises the many staff benefits and a working environment where diversity is respected.
FIVE MUST-TRY EXPERIENCES
• Sail across to a deserted island for a barbecue and relax in the overwater hammocks at Zilwa Attitude
• Headphones on, listen to a live DJ play tunes as you watch the sunrise on the beach at Sunrise Attitude
• Download Attitude’s Otentik Discovery mobile app and follow a self-guided tour of the best street food spots in Port Louis while staying at The Ravenala Attitude
• Visit the Marine Discovery Centre at Lagoon Attitude to talk to marine biologists about the Citizen Science project
• Have dinner with a local family and learn about Mauritian culture, available during a stay at any Attitude Hotel
Visit hotels-attitude.com to find out about the eight Attitude Hotels in Mauritius.
Looking for a five-star stay? Try Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel, Attitude’s sister hotel, which has Travelife Gold certification.
FIND OUT MORE
WHERE TO STAY in Mauritius
Port Louis
Port Louis is the vibrant and colourful capital city of Mauritius, located in the northwest of the island
THIS ECONOMIC HUB, founded in 1735 by French Navy officer, Bertrand-François Mahé de Labourdonnais, is steeped in ancient history and culture but teems with modern life.
Upon arrival in Port Louis, you will be struck by the Caudan Waterfront, a state-of-the-art complex comprising shops, restaurants, cinemas, a museum, and a multipurpose entertainment centre.
A visit to Port Louis market, meanwhile, offers a more authentic taste of local life in Mauritius and a journey for the senses. Take in the aromatic smell of fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices, the echoing sound of smallholders and vendors vying for your attention, and the taste of street food that is alive with flavour and will make your mouth dance.
To learn more about the island’s storied past, visit Port Louis’ plethora of museums, including the Beekrumsing Ramlallah Interpretation Centre. Located next to the Aapravasi Ghat, the centre traces the history of indentured Indian labourers who arrived in Mauritius in the 19th century, whilst the Intercontinental Slavery Museum highlights the country’s history of immigration and struggle for freedom.
The Natural History Museum, meanwhile, is the oldest on the island, housing a fascinating array of flora and fauna exhibits including a skeleton of the dodo – a flightless bird that has been extinct since the end of the 17th century.
For fascinating views from above, the Citadelle provides a picturesque panorama of Port Louis, whilst the monument of Marie Reine de la Paix, honouring the Virgin Mary, offers sacred sights of the city.
RECOMMENDS
Sleep:
FOR
A SUSTAINABLE STAY…
Purpose-driven and committed to responsible tourism through concrete actions, Hotels Attitude offers a range of sustainable 3 and 4-star hotels along the north and east coast of Mauritius. Choose from a selection of adult-only hotels, reserved for those over the age of 18 and ideal for solo travellers, couples, and groups of friends, or family-friendly hotels that offer unforgettable stays with a focus on fun. Both options are eco-committed and invite you to enjoy a responsible holiday whilst protecting the environment and supporting local economies and communities. By staying with Hotels Attitude, you can make a positive impact.
FOR EXCEPTIONAL MAURITIAN HOSPITALITY AND LUXURY…
InterContinental Resort Mauritius
FOR A BEACHFRONT BOUTIQUE PROPERTY…
Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness Mauritius
Eat:
FOR
A CULINARY JOURNEY…
Don’t miss out on Mauritius’ wide variety of delicious, ubiquitous street food, which has been heavily influenced by the island’s multicultural landscape, particularly Indian, Chinese, and African palates. Popular street food items include dholl puri, samosas, boulettes, gateaux piments, boiled or fried noodles, and much more. For those with a sweet tooth, treats such as napolitains, moutay cakes, and laddus will also satisfy your cravings. Port Louis is the ideal place to taste all the flavours that make up Mauritian culinary culture.
Do:
FOR STUNNING UNDERWATER SCENERY…
The island is a playground for professional and amateur divers alike, with a series of submerged shipwrecks and plentiful flora and fauna to discover off the Mauritian coast. Beautiful corals and kaleidoscopic fish create a riot of colour on the seabed, where dolphins, turtles, and, if you’re lucky, sperm whales and rays will honour you with their presence. There are multiple diving spots around Mauritius, including the impressive Whale Rock for experienced divers and more accessible sites such as Blue Bay Marine Park for beginners.
Enjoy the best of the beautiful island of Mauritius
Located in Balaclava in the north-west of the island, a 20 minute-driving distance from Port Louis and Grand Baie, InterContinental Resort Mauritius is your unforgettable getaway.
Unwind under swaying palm trees overlooking the azure waters of the Indian Ocean or bask in the glory of sunset colours topped by our worldfamous Mauritian hospitality.
The resort boasts a selection of ocean front guest rooms and suites with a symphony
of culinary experiences tailored to your palate preferences. Ignite your spirit with our exhilarating water activities and embark on a revitalising odyssey at our Spa InterContinental, offering the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Our universally modular venues cater to every celebratory and corporate vision, transforming seamlessly to accommodate gatherings both intimate and grand.
Managed by the acclaimed Banyan Tree Group, Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness offers a luxury sanctuary for discerning travellers seeking peaceful seclusion, bespoke romance, and holistic tropical wellness.
Nestled within a sheltered cove on Mauritius’s picturesque north-west coast – just 15 minutes from the vibrant capital of Port Louis and 20 minutes from the lively nightlife of Grand Bay – the beachfront haven features 55 exquisitely designed accommodations: a sumptuous Imperial Beach Villa and 54 stylish Luxury Suites, most of which are equipped with private heated pools. All accommodations boast elegant marble-lined bathrooms and spacious living spaces, including expansive terraces that delightfully blur the line between indoor and outdoor living. Select accommodations also feature thoughtful elements such as hammams, Jacuzzis, and handcrafted stone tubs with ocean views, allowing guests to embark on wellness journeys in the privacy of their very own hideaway.
An award-winning Spa boasting the most extensive hydrotherapy facilities on the island, exhilarating water sports across the serene bay, four restaurants along with private dining experiences such as intimate beach cabana dinners and floating baskets in private pools, and world-class conference facilities, all set against the backdrop of mesmerizing daily sunsets, combine to create the ultimate holiday bliss in Mauritius.
Landmark Attractions
Aapravasi Ghat
Located on the bay of Trou Fanfaron in Port Louis, the Aapravasi Ghat is the remains of an immigration depot built in 1849. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the modern indentured labour diaspora emerged and among the earliest explicit manifestations of what would become a global economic system and one of the greatest migrations in history.
Île aux Aigrettes
Unlike mainland Mauritius, which is of volcanic origin, this small islet off the southeast coast is made up of coral limestone. Declared a nature reserve in 1965, Île aux Aigrettes is home to restored forests and rare species that had long disappeared from the island thanks to intense conservation efforts by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, which offers tours for visitors.
Le Morne Cultural Landscape
A rugged mountain that juts into the Indian Ocean, Le Morne Cultural Landscape was used as a shelter by runaway slaves through the 18th and early 19th centuries and is a symbol of their suffering, sacrifice, and fight for freedom. The small settlements formed in the caves and on the summit of Le Morne were protected by the mountain’s isolated, wooded, and almost inaccessible cliffs.
Getting There and Around
SIR SEEWOOSAGUR
RAMGOOLAM International Airport is the primary international gateway to Mauritius, named in tribute to the country’s first Prime Minister after gaining independence in 1968. The airport is located 48km southeast of Port Louis, where you can also arrive on the island and dock in the capital by cruise ship.
Once in the country, there are several ways to get around at your own pace. Hiring a car is easy, affordable, and gives you the most freedom and flexibility as you are not bound by set timetables, whilst bike rentals bestow an eco-friendlier form of transport.
Local tour operators also organise excursions across the mainland, with journeys done by car or minibus depending on the number of people,
as well as boat trips to the surrounding islets. These can often be booked through your hotel, with itineraries including both half and full-day excursions.
To immerse yourself in Mauritian life and interact with the friendly locals, travel around the island by bus, of which there are two types – standard and express. If you can, always aim to catch the latter, as they are much faster and have air conditioning onboard. Unlike the metro, which runs from Port Louis to Curepipe, the Mauritian bus network crosses the whole island.
Traditional pirogues, originally used by fishermen, are another fun way of seeing Mauritius by sailboat, as are walking and hiking thanks to the island’s diverse natural landscapes.
Named after the river that runs through it, Limpopo is the northernmost province in South Africa, bordering Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Botswana.
Often overlooked by visitors who instead opt for the country’s more historically popular provinces such as the Western Cape and KwaZulu Natal, Limpopo shines as an underrated gem of the Rainbow Nation.
This visually gorgeous province offers a mosaic of superb, scenic landscapes and is home to a vast wealth of incredible scenery as well as many unmissable naturebased tourism opportunities.
A province consisting mostly of the Bushveld – a subtropical woodland ecoregion of Southern Africa – Limpopo is also known for its towering waterfalls,
LIMPOPO
trout-filled rivers, and dense forests.
With vast expanses of the Bushveld with mega conservation inhabited by an abundance of wildlife species, Limpopo is the perfect destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive array of national parks, game reserves, and safari trails. The region is predominantly rural, meaning that large areas still remain
completely untouched and unspoiled.
There is an equally enchanting mysticism to Limpopo as a land of epic ancient myths and tales, meaning those in search of fascinating history and cultural heritage will find numerous places of archaeological significance that have yielded relics dating back millions of years.
Known as the Great North, Limpopo is the land of legends and myths.
Much of this stunning South African province has remained unchanged for centuries, offering unlimited opportunities to experience a gloriously untamed Africa
WRITER: ED BUDDS | PROJECT MANAGER: JOSEPH PERFITT
“Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit.”
Edward Abbey
Our Story
This property has a long tradition of being run as a lodge, wedding venue, conference center, and fabulous restaurant open to the public. We aim to contribute to this history by letting it shine in a new splendour. Already being a cosy home away from home, we will transform this place into a meeting point for locals and visitors alike. This will include a gym, a spa area with sauna, viewing decks into Thornybush, and much more.
Also the rooms got a makeover, each with an individual look, designed by Tommy, the devoted owner himself. Whenever you chose to stay at this splendid place, a lovely team will be waiting for you.
Why Stay Here?
An evergreen oasis lodge, situated in the Limpopo province in South Africa, Sunbirds Oasis Lodge is a personalised intimate Oasis Lodge in the Big 5 area of Thornybush.
The dense vegetation caters for bird watchers and garden lovers will be amazed. For the gourmets, the food that awaits you at Sunbirds Oasis Lodge has been specially selected in traditional style. Every week one can enjoy a traditional braai or potjiekos in the Lapa next to the restaurant.
Our Spa, saunas, hot tub, gym, and viewing decks into Thornybush, with our beautiful big pool will contribute to your rhythm of the calm of the Oasis.
With only a 35km drive to Kruger National Park Orpen Gate and centrally located to all activities in the area, Sunbirds Oasis Lodge is your ideal base for enjoying a truly special African pleasure.
The tranquility and joy of the unique, affordable, yet 5-star luxurious bushveld experience, combined with the geniune hospitality of your caring staff will make your stay a memorable one!
Facilities
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Conference Centre, Disability Services, Wheelchair Friendly, Eco Friendly, Gym, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, Secure, Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea/Coffee
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card, Room Service
Fast Facts
Type No. Rooms
Check-In Time
Check-Out Time
Spoken Languages
Special Interests Lodge 24 14H00 11H00
Afrikaans, English, German Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Sports, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Activities on Site Bird Watching, Game Viewing, Gourmet Picnic, Massages
Activities off Site
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Art Galleries, Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Canoeing, Catch-andrelease Fishing, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Cycling, Elephant-back Safaris, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Golf, Health and Fitness Centre, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Hiking, Horse Riding, Horseback Safaris, Hot-air Ballooning, Massages, Mountain Biking, Quad Biking, Rhino Tracking, River Cruises, Safaris, Scenic Flights, Tennis Court, Tree-top Canopy Tours, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Wildlife Tours, Wine Tasting
Classic Double room
Sleeping 2 people
• 4 Rooms with a double bed
• Ensuite bathroom, a shower and toilet
• Towels, Body wash and shampoo
• Coffee station
• Breakfast included
• Aircon
• Mosquito nets
• Small veranda with a garden view
Superior room
Sleeping 3 people
• A double bed and a single bed (Rate displayed as max occupancy)
• Ensuite bathroom, shower and toilet
• Towels, body wash and shampoo
• Coffee station
• Breakfast included
• Aircon
• Ceiling fan
• Mosquito nets
Superior deLuxe family chalet
Sleeping 2 to 4 people
• King size bed
• Ensuite bathroom, shower and toilet
• Towels, body wash and shampoo
• Coffee station
• Breakfast included
• Aircon
• Ceiling fan
• Mosquito nets
• Interlinked doors
Suites
Sleeping 4 people
• King size bed
• Ensuite bathroom, shower and toilet
• Towels, body wash and shampoo
• Coffee station
• Breakfast included
• Aircon
• Ceiling fan
• Mosquito nets
• Private patio and garden
• Outside shower
A SAFARI ADVENTURE Exploring Limpopo
Limpopo, the northernmost province of South Africa, is a haven for safari enthusiasts
RENOWNED FOR ITS diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage, Limpopo offers an unparalleled safari experience. With its national parks, private game reserves, and close proximity to the iconic Kruger National Park, this province is a magnet for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
THE MAGIC OF LIMPOPO SAFARIS
Limpopo’s safaris are a gateway to some of South Africa’s most stunning ecosystems. The province is home to savannas, forests, mountains, and wetlands, creating habitats for an impressive array of wildlife. Visitors to Limpopo can expect to encounter Africa’s famed Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos – along with a multitude of other animals including giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and an array of antelope species. Birdwatchers, too, are in for a treat, as the region boasts over 500 bird species, from the vibrant lilac-breasted roller to the majestic African fish eagle.
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK AND BEYOND
Although Kruger National Park is partially located in Limpopo, the province offers much more beyond its borders. The park, one of Africa’s largest and most famous wildlife reserves, offers a classic safari experience with opportunities for guided game drives, self-drive safaris, and even walking safaris. But Limpopo also hosts several other remarkable reserves and parks that provide unique and intimate encounters with nature.
Mapungubwe National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one such destination. Nestled at the confluence of the Limpopo
and Shashe Rivers, this park is as rich in history as it is in wildlife. Archaeological sites here reveal the remnants of an ancient African kingdom, and the park’s scenic landscapes offer opportunities to spot elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species.
Marakele National Park, located in the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, is another highlight. Its rugged mountains, deep valleys, and diverse flora support a thriving population of animals, including rare species like the Cape vulture. Visitors can enjoy guided game drives or explore the park on foot.
For a more exclusive experience, Limpopo’s private game reserves offer luxury lodges, intimate safari adventures, and personalised service. These reserves are often less crowded than national parks, allowing for a more tranquil and immersive experience.
CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS
Safari adventures in Limpopo are not limited to wildlife viewing. The province is also rich in cultural heritage, offering visitors a chance to connect with the traditions of local communities. Guided cultural tours can include visits to traditional
villages, insights into local crafts, and opportunities to taste authentic South African cuisine.
ADVENTURE AWAITS
For thrill-seekers, Limpopo’s safari experiences extend beyond traditional game drives. Hot air balloon rides over the Bushveld, horseback safaris, and guided hikes are just some of the adventurous ways to explore the region. Night safaris, where nocturnal animals take centre stage, offer a completely different perspective on the wilderness.
Come and experience the ultimate African safari adventure at Sandy Creek Safaris. Let our warm hospitality, stunning natural surroundings, and unforgettable wildlife encounters leave you with lifelong memories.
Sandy Creek Safaris: Unparalleled Wildlife Adventures in the Heart of South Africa
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Kransberg Mountains, within the breathtaking Marakele National Park in the Waterberg area, lies Sandy Creek Safaris - a premier destination for unforgettable wildlife experiences. Our luxury safari lodge offers an immersive escape into the untamed beauty of Africa.
Unparalleled Location
Our strategic location within Marakele National Park provides unparalleled access to abundant wildlife, including the Big Five:
lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. The diverse landscape, ranging from grasslands to dense bushveld, ensures thrilling game-viewing opportunities.
Luxurious Accommodations
Our elegant lodge features spacious, tastefully decorated suites with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and savannah. Enjoy luxurious amenities, including fine dining, an infinity pool, and relaxing lounge areas.
Expert Guides and Safaris
Experienced guides, with
extensive knowledge of the area and its wildlife, will lead you on guided safaris, bush walks, and birdwatching excursions. Experience the thrill of encountering Africa’s incredible wildlife from sunrise to sunset.
Conservation and Community
At Sandy Creek Safaris, we prioritise conservation and community involvement. Our eco-friendly practices and partnerships with local communities ensure a sustainable and responsible tourism experience.
Q & A
Contact us: +27 83 556 8007 |
Please introduce us to Sandy Creek Safaris, including your location and an overview of your accommodation and key facilities.
Sandy Creek Safaris is a luxury safari lodge amidst the breathtaking Marakele National Park, Waterberg area, South Africa. Our lodge offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and exceptional service. Our key facilities include luxurious suites, an infinity pool, lounge areas, and a dining room. We cater to safari enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking an unforgettable African experience in luxury.
Could you tell us about your conservation and sustainability programmes?
At Sandy Creek Safaris, we prioritise conservation and sustainability. We partner with local organisations to support antipoaching efforts; we fight bush encroachment to support habitat preservation. Our lodge operates to promote sustainable tourism practices. We also support local communities through job creation.
Are there any recent developments at Sandy Creek Safaris that you would like to highlight?
Looking ahead, what are Sandy Creek’s priorities for the coming year?
Looking ahead, our priorities for the coming year include expanding our conservation efforts and enhancing our lodge facilities to maintain our high standards of luxury and service. We also plan to increase our online presence through social media and digital marketing to reach a wider audience of safari enthusiasts.
We are excited to announce the recent upgrade of our lodge facilities, including the addition of new luxurious suites, a renovated dining area, and an expanded infinity pool. We also have extra safari activities available to suit every guest’s needs.
What kind of adventures and experiences can guests expect at Sandy Creek Safaris, and what wildlife will they encounter?
Guests at Sandy Creek Safaris can expect luxury accommodations combined with unforgettable adventures and experiences. Our expert guides lead guided bush walks, birdwatching excursions, and sunset drives. Our lodge is situated in a prime viewing area, with the opportunity for sightings of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), as well as cheetah, hyena, giraffe, and numerous antelope species in Marakele National Park and on Sandy Creek Safaris.
RECOMMENDS
Sleep:
FOR AN EVERGREEN OASIS IN THE LOWVELD BUSH...
Sunbirds Oasis Lodge is surrounded by the Big Five areas of Thornybush, Klaserie, Timbavati, and Kapama and right on the doorstep of Kruger National Park.
Whether you want to relax by the pool, roam the sizeable garden, or take part in one of the lodge’s activities to explore the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region, Sunbirds Oasis Lodge has the right package for you.
Above all, its experienced team delivers a creative menu crafted from fresh and local ingredients in the on-site restaurant.
This impressive property has a long tradition of being run as a lodge, wedding venue, conference centre, and fabulous restaurant open to the public.
The lodge aims to contribute to this history of excellence by letting it shine with renewed splendour. Already existing as a cosy home away from home, the range of accommodations is as diverse as its guests. Choose from welcoming double rooms for a romantic stay as well as spacious triple rooms that can also be used as family units.
All stays come with an ensuite private bathroom with complementary high quality beauty products, whilst free Wi-Fi is also provided throughout without any extra charge.
As soon as you step out of your room, the lodge’s large garden and pool area await you. For the evenings, guests can end the day in spectacular fashion by enjoying their favourite drink by the fire.
Do:
FOR UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES...
Sandy Creek Safaris is the perfect way to experience nature in its purest form with its diverse variety of native animals.
Located in the heart of Marakele National Park, Sandy Creek Safaris allows you to experience this fascinating wildlife up close and in their natural habitat.
With Sandy Creek Safaris, you can truly dive into the wild beauty of South Africa. From the breathtaking fauna to the picturesque landscapes, a safari here offers the chance to encounter Africa’s diverse animals at home in the wild.
Sandy Creek Safaris also offers 10 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites. From the deluxe double room with garden views to the presidential suite on the upper floor with a balcony and vistas of the Kransberg Mountains, the lodge provides timeless comfort for every desire and occasion.
All rooms are stylishly designed with meticulous attention to detail to ensure guests an unparalleled stay and feature high-quality, comfortable box spring beds, air conditioning, a coffee and tea station, as well as a TV and minibar.
A spacious, heated, and year-round infinity pool with the Kransberg Mountains in the distance is the centrepiece of the lodge’s large and luxurious outdoor area. Relax on the elegantly designed patio with views of Africa’s tamboti trees, which also provide a refreshing breeze.
Meanwhile, the vast garden with its private retreats offers ample space for sunbathing and relaxation.
Kruger National Park IN FOCUS
Set in the north-eastern corner of the country, Kruger National Park offers an African safari adventure of a lifetime.
SPANNING NEARLY TWO million hectares, it is the largest national reserve in South Africa and renowned across the entire world.
This expanse of subtropical woodland provides a vast range of scenery, diverse flora, and spectacular wild animals of all sizes and characters. As such, Kruger National Park is known for having the highest population density of the Big Five animals
in South Africa, serving up ample opportunity to see lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and African buffalo.
The iconic park also promises to deliver a multitude of African safari animal sightings such as giraffes, zebra, wildebeest, and hyenas.
However, should you be set on an African lion safari or unwilling to the leave the site without encountering the sight of a leopard up close, your best option may be to head to one of the park’s private game reserves, known for specific sightings and accompanied by expert guides.
Private reserves within Kruger National Park also offer night game drives and guided bush walks, giving you the opportunity to be completely immersed in the wild. With all of Africa’s supreme wild
creatures, the park is additionally home to 137 other mammals and is a bird lover’s paradise with over 500 varieties.
The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry months from June to September, when the vegetation is less thick. During this period, animals make their way to rivers and watering holes which create excellent game viewing opportunities.
Landmark Attractions
Debengeni Falls
Within the verdant natural beauty of the Magoebaskloof Pass, an area of immense splendour in the northern part of the Drakensberg mountain range, Debengeni Falls is an idyllic example of the untouched, untainted appeal of Limpopo. Here, the Ramadipha River tumbles 80 metres to its base, demonstrating the unharnessed power of nature.
Thaba Kwena Crocodile Farm
Nestled between Bela-Bela and Modimolle in the Waterberg, Thaba Kwena Crocodile Farm was founded more than 25 years ago. This is the largest commercial crocodile farm in the Southern Hemisphere and home to approximately 45,000 crocodiles of varying sizes. Feeding time at the farm is an experience not to be missed, as these ferocious beasts create a breathtaking spectacle.
Tzaneen Museum
This museum is crammed full of fascinating artefacts of the local Tsonga and Northern Sotho people’s pottery, basketry, beadwork, weapons, sacred drums, and numerous other items of ethnological importance to the region. There is also a comprehensive collection of woodcarvings by local artists alongside the museum’s pottery collection, which covers a period of nearly 2,000 years.
Getting There and Around
FOR TRAVELLERS ARRIVING by car, the N1 road runs from Cape Town, Bloemfontein, and Gauteng straight to Limpopo. This route also hosts several key bus networks.
Public roads in South Africa are well developed and sign-posted, with driving done on the left-hand side of the road. Drivers may be required to have an international driver’s license and a minimum of five years’ experience in order to hire a car in South Africa, depending on their nationality. With a European passport, you can drive legally in South Africa for up to one year.
The majority of international flights land at OR Tambo International Airport, which lies to the east of Gauteng, about a 30-minute drive from the city centre.
National carrier, South African Airways, connects the nation to most European and many African capitals, as well as the US, South America, Asia, and Australia.
Come visit Limpopo, the land of legends and myths!
Below: Abel Erasmus Pass is located in the Limpopo province of South Africa on the R36 road between Ohrigstad and Tzaneen. The pass is 11 kilometres long and passes through the Drakensberg region in Limpopo
ROME
Endless vistas await in Rome, the cherished Italian capital where modern culture and the storied past of its cobbled streets collide
WRITER: LILY SAWYER
Deeply etched into the annals of history and a source of countless systems and practices still used today, Rome is undoubtedly the beating heart of Italy and the cradle of Western civilisation, dubbed the ‘eternal city’ for its everlasting presence.
Built not only on remarkable architectural foundations but also philosophical ideals that have shaped our perception of
humanity, Rome’s enduring presence is, indeed, everlasting. Having evolved as a global hub of tourism, welcoming a record-breaking 35 million visitors in 2023 alone, the city reigns supreme as a destination of choice amongst travellers due to its plethora of historical sites and monuments, many of which are UNESCO World Heritagelisted.
RECOMMENDS
Eat:
FOR A TRUE ITALIAN TREAT…
Reportedly Rome’s first ice cream parlour, Giolitti is not to be missed. Classic décor makes for a nostalgic feel in the charming shopfront, located just a stone’s throw from the Pantheon on one of the oldest streets in Rome, the Salita del Grillo, in the Monti district. Enjoy classic Italian flavours like crema, pistachio, and tiramisu, or more experimental options such as pineapple, wild cherry, or pomegranate.
Do:
FOR A TASTE OF THE ATMOSPHERE...
Visit the Stadio Olimpico, home of AS Roma and S.S. Lazio, to witness the beautiful game of football in all its glory. The UEFA Category 4 stadium famously hosted the 1990 World Cup final and has the capacity for over 70,000 spectators, making it one of the largest in Europe. Witness giants of Italian football face off, such as the recent contest between AS Roma and Inter Milan in October 2024 which the visitors emerged from as 1-0 winners.
Sleep:
FOR CLASSIC CHARM AND CONTEMPORARY COMFORT…
Choose River Château Hotel, a 4-star accommodation option in the heart of Rome’s sporting and cultural district. The hotel features 55 rooms spread over four floors, which promise elegance, discretion, Italian sumptuousness, and state-of-the-art spa and gym facilities. In addition, the accommodation is ideally located amidst many of Rome’s well-known attractions, including the Stadio Olimpico, Foro Italico, Auditorium Parco della Musica, and Lungotevere.
At the heart of the action, discover the momentous Colosseum, which once staged the city’s gladiatorial games, before exploring the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill archaeological sites, where public meetings and open-air markets were historically held. For a truly immersive experience, the Parco archeologico del Colosseo offers a 60-minute guided night-time tour of the area.
On the west bank of the River Tiber lies Vatican City – the world’s smallest independent state and seat of the Roman Catholic Church.
A country within a city, the fascinating destination houses the Vatican Museums, a vast collection of art amassed by popes since the 17th century, St Peter’s Basilica, a revered site of Catholicism where St Peter himself was reportedly laid to rest, and the Sistine Chapel, featuring Michelangelo’s world-famous fresco on its ceiling.
Should a busy schedule prevent you from reaching the popular Vatican, however, spend time discovering hidden gems in the resplendent heart of Rome where historical basilicas, churches, and chapels delight, many of which feature stunning floor-to-ceiling artwork.
“At the heart of the action, discover the momentous Colosseum, which once staged the city’s gladiatorial games, before exploring the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill archaeological sites”
WHEN IN ROME…
Although Rome’s historic monuments and warm weather are vital to its identity, the city would be nothing without its food. From dawn until dusk, consider these delicious local offerings:
Colazione (breakfast): A day of sightseeing calls for a morning coffee or ‘caffè’, an undeniable Italian staple. Both caffè lattes and cappuccinos are considered acceptable breakfast drinks, whilst a double espresso or ‘doppio’ will provide an extra boost. To enjoy coffee like a local, drink it standing at the counter, paired with a fluffy maritozzo – a sweet pastry bun sandwiching fresh whipped cream, lightly dusted with powdered sugar.
Pranzo (lunch): Pasta is undeniably a quintessential Italian lunch option. The holy trinity of Roman pastas are therefore a must-try, consisting of amatriciana, prepared with cured pork cheek or ‘guanciale’ and fresh tomatoes; carbonara, featuring guanciale with the addition of pecorino cheese and egg yolk; and cacio e pepe, a simple two-ingredient dish of pecorino and cracked black pepper. The spaghetti is always served al dente and often with a glass of local wine.
Merenda (snack): To curb afternoon hunger pangs, Romans opt for suppli, a popular street food snack. The deep-fried rice ball is coated with egg and breadcrumbs and filled with tomato ragu and mozzarella cheese – the crunchy exterior giving way to a gooey, cheesy centre.
Aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks): The Italian answer to happy hour, take advantage of aperitivo between 6:30 and 8:30pm every evening. Costing just €10 or less, the concept typically consists of a drink and a variety of snacks served buffet-style before dinner. An Aperol or Campari spritz are popular drink options, whilst the Hugo spritz is a tasty alternative. Beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages are also available.
Cena (dinner): After a day of sampling the city’s best fare, Roman artichokes or ‘carciofi alla romana’ make for the perfect finale. Traditionally, the artichokes are served pan braised, whilst fried artichokes or ‘carciofi alla giudia’ originate from the Roman-Jewish community. Porchetta, deboned pork stuffed with herbs and spices, and tripe or ‘trippa’ prepared with tomato, white wine, and pecorino are also popular dinner options.
Take, for example, Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola, a baroque Jesuit church complete with detailed frescoes and a trompe l’œil faux dome – the ultimate optical illusion.
Outside the peaceful church walls, Rome’s touristic centre thrums with activity. The ancient temple of the Pantheon showcases its perfect geometry and 25-footwide oculus that’s open to the skies, whilst the Spanish Steps, featured as the backdrop of movie scenes in
ROME ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES
One of the most cost-effective ways to access Rome is by travelling with lowcost airline, Ryanair
Offering flights for as little as €15 one way from most European destinations, passengers can choose from Standard, Plus, and Flexi Plus fares, whilst popular add-ons include priority boarding, reserved seats, and extra baggage.
UK airports offering regular flights to Rome with the airline include London Stansted, Manchester, Liverpool, Bristol, and Edinburgh.
It’s important to note that Rome has two airports – Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) and Giovan Battista Pastine Airport (CIA) – both of which offer connections to the city centre.
Upon arrival, online travel agency, Tripadvisor, offers tours, excursions, and experiences to suit any budget or preference.
Roman Holiday and countless others, present the perfect photo opportunity.
Meanwhile, the Trevi Fountain is the city’s impressive baroque centrepiece, heralding the legend that those who toss coins into its glistening blue waters will surely return to Rome.
After a long day of immersing in Rome’s history, the vibrant, bohemian neighbourhood of Trastevere presents the perfect opportunity to discover off-the-beaten-track
eateries amongst its winding alleyways, blow off steam, and absorb the city’s buzzing nightlife.
Charles Dickens’ sentiment from his travelogue, Pictures from Italy, perfectly encapsulates Rome’s compelling atmosphere, emphasising why the city is a must-see for any visitor.
“It is a place where everybody who has a mind of his own must go, sooner or later. Whether for good or evil, it is the grand despot amongst cities.”
A CHANGING LANDSCAPE
Pakistan’s Kalash Valley in the Chitral District is home to the Kalashi people, a remote pagan tribe. However, during my visit, I learned their traditions and future are under threat from the impact of tourism
WRITER: AIMEN REHMAN, TRAVEL JOURNALIST
As the Chitral River flowed, a man began to play his flute, and the woman beside him, adorned in heavily embellished clothes, abandoned her washing at the riverbank, stepped back, and started to dance to the melodic music.
Once she decided she was done, she continued her washing. As if no disruption had been made in the valley, nature continued its course – the wind blew through the trees, and the birds chirped on.
That was the serenity that once existed in Chitral’s Kalash Valley. My family, who are avid travellers, recount this incident with great fascination. Chitral was a place of natural movement and a peaceful lifestyle, wholly cut off from the modern world about 33 years ago.
Today, despite being armed with the conveniences of modern facilities, the town is bombarded with tourists each year.
ARRIVAL AND ACCOMMODATION
As the sun had just started to rise, the bus suddenly came to a halt. The driver, who had gotten off the bus and vanished into the crowd up ahead, came back to inform us of the situation. We were told a stream had gushed down the mountain and blown the whole road apart.
Furthermore, we would have to wait a while for the excavator to get here.
Eventually, a temporary path was made, solid enough to cross to the other side. A 4x4 vehicle waited to take me to the Chitral Valley, where I was heading to meet a remote pagan tribe – the Kalashi people.
Crossing the scenic valley - where I held my breath at each sharp turn in the road, praying the vehicle would not go down the steep fall below - we finally arrived at the hotel.
The family who runs the hotel came out to warmly greet me, enquiring about the delay in the journey. I couldn’t help but notice that the gentleman wore a symbol on his hat, the same one that previous Mehtars of the region had worn on their royal headpieces, which I assumed was his entitlement to wear as a prince of the royal family.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AIMEN REHMAN
The Mehtar of Chitral is the noble title given to the region’s ruler, however, it’s mostly a ceremonial role these days.
The Hindukush Heights hotel itself was a pleasant surprise. Built on the granite mountain’s side, the hotel’s rear overlooked the breathtaking view of the Chitral Valley and its river.
The rustic grandeur of the hotel was decorated in traditional Chitrali wooden furniture, with handmade rugs and kilims sprung around on every corner. I immediately thought how regal it looked, perhaps a nod to the establishment’s ownership.
Looking at all the historical and cultural artefacts lining the hallways, I couldn’t help but feel excited about what I had organised for the next day.
KALASHI CULTURE
I had heard and extensively read about the Kalashi people and was eager to finally travel to this part of the country to visit this unique pocket of Pakistani culture.
Everything about the Kalashi people seems to be at variance with the rest of the country. The landscape of the Hindu Kush mountains, where the Kalash Valley resides, is a rugged mountain range that is quite different in terms of the landscape from the other two ranges in Pakistan – the Himalayas and the Karakoram, which are verdant in contrast.
The Kalashi’s religion is also different, with 3,000 or so worshippers left following a pagan belief rooted in honouring and remembering ancestors. With fairer skin and lighter eyes, their aesthetic is distinct from that of the rest of the population.
Many Kalashi people have, over time, left their culture and religion and have become more modernised, despite a few still firmly holding onto their cultural norms in a fast-changing world.
My grandfather visited the valley in 1991 at a time when not many ventured past the hostile landscape nor even knew about this distinctive group.
When my family visited about 33 years ago, tourists rarely frequented the area; in fact, the Kalash Valley was so remote that the locals didn’t speak a word of Urdu, Pakistan’s national language.
THE KALASHI PEOPLE’S RARE RITUAL
The girl guide asked me if I wanted to visit a graveyard, but I hesitated as the Kalashi people have a unique style of burying their dead. Their graveyard, up in the mountains, is scattered with open coffins, offering the corpse back to nature so that birds may come along and peck at the human remains. I had often been told that a family member vomited during their last visit after looking in an open coffin.
The Kalashi girl, noticing my reluctance again, asked if I wanted to see the graveyard, and at her insistence, I finally agreed. I soon realised that this newer burial ground was in the town centre and had been set up for tourists, as open coffins seemed to be neatly and strategically placed, with a boardwalk going around the graves and a signboard on display.
In addition to the unique custom of disposing of the dead, the Kalashi people prepare lavish meals and feed all guests who come to the funeral to express their solidarity with the bereaved family. The affair is expensive, and most community members contribute to the occasion.
The Kalashi people also blow whistles, sing, dance, and beat drums around the body before taking it for burial, and they believe Sajigor, the god of death, prefers celebration over mourning at the time of passing.
When inquiring about the burial method, the guide responded that it was now obsolete. Today, interments are underground to avoid air pollution due to population growth.
The next day, when I set out to visit the valley, the hotel had connected me with a Kalashi girl guide to show me around. I soon realised how the town had become a tourist trap, especially the market, which was lined with souvenir shops.
I was then shown the temple’s exterior (non-Kalashi people are not allowed to enter), the town centre, and the menses centre (during their cycle, Kalashi women must remain in the building and not exit it). Each location offered a glimpse into the Kalashi people’s traditions and everyday lives.
TRANSITIONING TRADITIONS
In addition to my family’s stories about their impressions of the Kalashi people, my understanding of them prior to my visit was shaped by The Kafirs of the Hindu Kush, a book written by Sir George Scott Robertson. He wrote one of the first detailed accounts of the Kafirs (now known as Kalashis) based on his extensive experiences living with the tribe in 1896 during British rule in India.
Exposed wooden coffins of Kalashi people in the remote Bumburet valley located in Chitral District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMAAN RANA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMAAN RANA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMAAN RANA
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY EMAAN RANA
Robertson remarked that the Kalashi civilisation abruptly fell asleep centuries ago in Kafaristan and is still dormant.
In his books, Robertson describes them as a primitive tribe, entirely cut off from the rest of the world, even though there are recorded encounters between the tribe and Timurlane, as well as with Babur, the first Mughal emperor.
He also observed that their present ideas, history, and religious associations are “simply bloodshed, assassination, and blackmailing, yet they are not savages. Some of them have the heads of philosophers and statesmen”.
As the tour guide showed us around, her daughter eventually joined us, and I was proudly informed that she had learned to speak English through cartoons on her mother’s phone. It was another difference from nearly three decades ago when hardly anyone spoke the national language.
The conversation then shifted to how the Kalash Valley had changed over the years. The guide shared her frustration with me at how the rest of the country thought of them as underdeveloped, belonging to a religion far removed from their belief systems.
Ending the topic on a lighter note, I pointed out how the clothing had changed over the years, as on the book cover of Robertson’s publication, the front page displayed a girl wearing black clothes with dark green and red hand embroidery, a furry hat, and a black substance rubbed on her face around the eyes. The girl told me that, nowadays, they are all very fashion-conscious and adopt a new style during each festival, with their florescent machine embroidery changing each season.
TRADITIONS AND TOURISM COLLIDE
On the drive back to the hotel, the driver, a Chitrali man, told me there were only some 3,000 Kalashi people left because their religion was challenging to maintain. The women would often elope with men during the festival season or go to the big cities to study and convert to another religion.
In Kalashi culture, women are expected to always be adorned in heavy and embroidered clothes and must sacrifice a goat for every possible milestone in life, making it quite an expensive religion to follow.
Whilst the culture has modernised in some ways, such as having a menses centre in town and not being located within a cave up in the mountains as was the case in the near past, the liberation of the outside world perhaps seems worth it to leave the familiarity of their culture, never being able to return. It has become quite common now for a Muslim and a Kalashi brother to coexist in the same household.
With the rise of globalisation and the development of better road networks – all with modern machinery for road maintenance – the influx of festival visitors dramatically contributes to the local economy. However, the once-serene atmosphere of the valley seems to have disappeared.
In the age of modernisation, although they have access to education and better healthcare, the Kalashi people are also slowly losing their cultural identity. This raises concerns about embracing modernity and maintaining the unique Kalashi heritage and traditions, as the reliance on tourism to bolster the economy may not be sustainable.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMAAN RANA
WORLD TRAVEL MARKET LONDON WHERE CULTURES COLLIDE
A globetrotter’s dream, each year, influential members of the travel and tourism community come together at World Travel Market London. We explore 2024’s vibrant event and catch up with key representatives of tourism boards from across the globe
Writers: Lily Sawyer and Lauren Kania
Celebrating its 44th year, World Travel Market (WTM) London has fast become the home of international travel trade. Featuring a broad range of attendees, from backpackers to businesses and government ministers, ExCel London, where the event is annually hosted, is transformed into a mecca for all things travel.
A comprehensive programme of speakers and influencers disseminated knowledge at this year’s event based on travel trends and hot topics from across the tourism industry.
Taking place between Tuesday 5th November and Thursday 7th November, WTM London 2024 was sponsored by its first ever Global Travel Partner, the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), whose ambitious targets to grow its tourism sector
shone through at its impressive stand situated at the heart of the venue.
The first day of WTM did not disappoint, where the Outlook Travel team had the opportunity to become immersed in a world of international adventure, excitement, and intrigue whilst gleaning insights from influential members of the global travel community.
A COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAMME
Kicking off with a bang, hordes of attendees flocked to the vast entrance of the ExCel Centre on Tuesday 5th November for the inaugural date of WTM London.
Upon entry to the venue, the colours and sounds of over 4,000 exhibitors from 184 countries overwhelmed the senses.
Divided by continent, the event’s sections were helpfully delineated by huge signs and even the colour of the carpet underfoot, making for easy navigation, further supplemented by clear maps and floorplans displayed throughout.
Opportunities arose ahead of the event to engage with global tourism boards, scheduled through an official WTM London app complete with floorplans and exhibitor details, which integrated a ConnectMe Diary for booked meetings.
In addition, graced by more than 200 world-class speakers, this year’s
jam-packed conference programme focused on the resurgence of the tourism industry, especially given its substantial uptick since the COVID-19 pandemic.
As tourism levels continue to rise, sustainability has also become an important focal point. As such, this year’s event spotlighted key trends such as regenerative tourism and community support and considered how we might balance the revival of international travel whilst prioritising local communities and the environment.
Other key topics covered across
WTM London’s 70 insightful conference sessions included diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion (DEAI) and the rise of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) – which informed the theme of this year’s Ministers’ Summit debate, ‘emerging technology’s potential for good in tourism’.
IN AMONGST THE ACTION
Aside from WTM London’s comprehensive programme of conferences and talks, the buzzing atmosphere on the ground amongst the stands was not to be missed.
GLEANING INSIGHTS - SABAH TOURISM BOARD
We caught up with Julinus Jeffery Jimit, CEO of the Sabah Tourism Board, who outlined ongoing evolutions across the region’s tourism offering, including details of its new campaign, Explore Sabah.
Outlook Travel (OT): Can you talk us through the origins of the Sabah Tourism Board and your initial vision?
Julinus Jeffery Jimit, CEO (JJJ): The Sabah Tourism Board was first established in 1976. At the time, it was known as the Sabah Tourism Promotion Coporation. In 2002, we rebranded to Sabah Tourism Board. Our vision is to promote the region as a premier destination for culture, adventure, and nature.
Each year, we have a goal to achieve an increased number of visitors. This year, the goal is about 3 million, and as of September, we already hit about 2.4 million with a ratio of about 40 percent international travellers and 60 percent domestic.
The largest number of visitors stems from China, Brunei, and the UK.
OT: We understand you have a new campaign, ‘Explore Sabah’. Can you tell us more about it?
JJJ: We wanted to be different, so we thought of ‘Explore Sabah’ to encourage visitors to explore, enjoy, and have fun. We have more than 40 ethnic groups in the country and house the top five mountains in Malaysia.
We also have the oldest orangutan conservation in Sepilok, the Golden Triangle in Sabah, they call it Maliau Basin – The Lost World of Sabah, and first-class forest reserves in the Danum Valley, where Prince William and Princess Kate travelled recently.
We really want to push ‘Explore Sabah’. That’s why we are collaborating with several airlines, including AirAsia, Royal Brunei Airlines, and China, as 90 percent of arrivals into Sabah are by air.
OT: How have you seen the Kinabalu Global GeoPark impact tourism in the region?
JJJ: Through the Kinabalu Global GeoPark, we have achieved Triple Crown status, an award given to World Heritage Sites covering the World Biosphere Reserve, Global Geopark, and World Natural Heritage. In the world, there are only three countries which have the Triple Crown status: Jeju Island in South Korea, Shennongjia in China, and now us. We want to position that Triple Crown and use tourism not only to preserve those pristine assets in terms of conservation but also to empower the local people via tourism in a sustainable manner.
OT: How would you summarise tourism in Sabah?
JJJ: We have the highest peak in Southeast Asia, the plunging depths of the waters of Sipadan Island, and everything in between. Sabah has culture, nature, and adventure that, when moulded together, exemplify the country to the world, making it a wild element for you to come and experience.
GLEANING INSIGHTSNATIONAL TOURIST BOARD OF SIERRA LEONE
We sat down with Nabeela Farida Tunis, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs for the National Tourist Board of Sierra Leone, who spoke at length about the Tourism for All campaign and her aspirations for the future of travel in the country
TOURISM FOR ALL’S 2024 monthly tourism themes:
• JANUARY – Explore and discover
• FEBRUARY – Travel and hospitality
• MARCH – Create and innovate
• APRIL – Gateway to freedom and liberation
• MAY – Culture and heritage
• JUNE – Monuments and relics
• JULY – Environmental awareness for ecotourism
• AUGUST – Partner and promote
• SEPTEMBER – Tourism multiplier benefits
• OCTOBER – Women in tourism
• NOVEMBER – Wildlife conservation and communities
• DECEMBER – Festivals and entertainment
“This year-long programme showcases how people are beginning to understand what tourism in Sierra Leone is all about. It is a space that encompasses everyone, especially because of the creativity, innovation, arts, and culture we have added.
“The essence of the Tourism for All campaign is about getting people engaged and involved in the conservation, preservation, and protection of our unique cultural and touristic heritage sites. These monthly themes are an example of the new initiatives we’ve rolled out, and we’ve received a lot of interest as to how we’ve managed to re-engineer our culture regarding tourism and the many benefits it brings.” – Nabeela Farida Tunis, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) showcased its country’s rich heritage by displaying vibrant handwoven textiles from various provinces, offering attendees the opportunity to participate in a DIY experience by creating souvenirs such as charms, brooches, and pins from traditional fabrics.
Morocco, celebrated as the ‘kingdom of light’ by the Moroccan National Tourism Office (MNTO),
presented a colourful tunnel of illuminations at its stand alongside an immersive pavilion which drew visitors in and emphasised the country’s traditional architecture. The stand closely aligned with MNTO’s ‘Light in Action’ initiative, which focuses on unlocking new, high-potential tourism markets from across the globe.
Meanwhile, Andalusia was awarded the Best Stand Design over
150 square meters (sqm) by WTM
London judges for its staggering 580 sqm space, which brought together over a hundred companies from the region, including eight provinces in southern Spain. Attendees enjoyed virtual interactions through smart bracelets and quick response (QR) technology.
Overall, offering networking opportunities, merchandise, and the chance to closely engage
with hundreds of global tourism representatives and officials, WTM London is truly a one-stop-shop for all things travel.
www.wtm.com
THE LAST STOP.
STATIONED BETWEEN THE cities of Šibenik and Trogir, the coastal spirit felt throughout the town of Primošten is magical.
Rocky coasts encompass the beauty of this Croatian village, where never-ending beaches surround the perimeter and history embeds itself beneath every paving stone.
With a population of less than 3,000, Primošten’s Mediterranean atmosphere and remote nature are enticing.
Located at the highest point of the peninsula, the Church of St. George is a monumental structure whose white
PRIMOŠTEN
43.3511° N, 15.5521° E
stone exterior dates back to 1760.
Primošten is often named the city of beaches as it is surrounded by pebbles, ports, secluded swimming, golden shores, and turquoise waters. Throughout the summer months, these beautiful beaches make for a serene holiday to sunbathe and enjoy the intoxicating spirit of the Adriatic Sea.
Folklore, gastronomy, and art festivals will also enrich your trip, whilst traditions such as klapa singing and maritime customs bring the town to life. Alternatively, meander to a quaint café or walk up to one of the town’s viewpoints for a peaceful vista of the surrounding beauty.
The community spirit is compelling across this European wonder, where everyone knows each other. Find
a cosy corner in an atmospheric restaurant or venture the narrow, cobbled paths to meet the locals. Across the village, time seems to stop whilst you become engulfed in its history and culture.
To witness Primošten’s beauty from a bird’s-eye view, look out from the statue of Our Lady of Loreto for a breathtaking panorama of the peninsula.
Primošten presents the perfect compromise between a seaside village and a city break, so don’t miss an opportunity to experience unforgettable views, immersive culture, nostalgic old towns, delicious delicacies, and a home away from home. Croatia is blessed to house this wonderful peninsula on the Adriatic coast.
Now why not tell us yours?
The unrelenting demand to travel, both for business and leisure purposes, is showing no signs of slowing up, and for Outlook Publishing, the growing extent to which we are covering this industry across our existing titles has led to the launch of Outlook Travel magazine. The major component of the publication takes the form of our Outlook Travel Guides, providing executives, avid travellers and our existing 575,000 international subscribers with the ultimate rundown of all the major economic drivers and thriving hubs across the world, with exclusive input from tourism industry associations and stakeholders – the people who know these places the best.
You can join the vast numbers of tourism sector players enjoying the exposure we provide across our digital and print platforms with a range of options, from advertising through to free-of-charge editorials, extensive social media saturation, enhanced B2B networking opportunities, and a readymade forum to attract new investment and increase exposure.
For further information, visit www.outlooktravelmag.com
travel magazine Charlevoix
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