News

New Zealand Hosts Inaugural MAGNIficent Adventure Race, a Thrilling ARWS Qualifier

The inaugural MAGNIficent Adventure Race, a qualifying event for the Adventure Racing World Series (ARWS), took place from January 22nd to February 2nd, 2025, in New Zealand. Spanning the rugged landscapes of Southland, the race unfolded over a grueling 460km course, captivating competitors and global spectators alike. For seven days, teams tackled various disciplines including trekking, mountain biking, pack rafting, and advanced navigation. Participants hailed from nine countries, applauding the course’s design, breathtaking scenery, and the thorough coverage provided by race media. The race winners were experienced New Zealand team Sardine Racing, who crossed the finish line in Lumsden after 4 days 5 hours and 45 minutes of racing and said; “The MAGNIficent lived up to its name, delivering 10/10 endurance, breathtaking views, and brutally rewarding terrain.”

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Crystal unveils 2027 cruise itineraries across six continents

Crystal Cruises has announced its 2027 itineraries for Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, featuring journeys across six continents and more than 170 destinations. These luxury voyages, aligned with global tourism strategies supported by the U.S. Department of State and the International Maritime Organization, offer travellers immersive cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and top-tier service.Through its partnership with Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal enhances its shore excursions with exclusive experiences such as gastronomic tours in Vietnam, wildlife encounters in Alaska, and temple explorations in Japan.Guests will also enjoy world-class dining, entertainment, and cultural enrichment on board.

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Omni Hotels & Resorts boosts its golf presence with Sahith Theegala as ambassador in an exciting multi-year deal

Omni Hotels & Resorts, the exclusive hotel partner of the PGA TOUR, has officially named rising golf star Sahith Theegala as its brand ambassador. This two-year collaboration underscores Omni’s commitment to the sport, reinforcing its role in supporting golf’s expansion across all demographics. Before making his mark on the PGA TOUR in 2022, Theegala built an impressive collegiate career at Pepperdine University in Southern California, earning three-time “All American” honors. His exceptional talent was further recognized when he claimed the Haskins Award, Ben Hogan Award, and Jack Nicklaus Award—an elite feat accomplished by only four others in the sport’s history. Currently ranked No. 19 in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR), Theegala has amassed nearly $20 million in career earnings. His first PGA TOUR victory came at the 2023 Fortinet Classic, and he later played a pivotal role in the victorious 2024 U.S. Presidents Cup team. Additionally, he is a key member of the Los Angeles Golf Club in the Tomorrow Golf League (TGL), the innovative new golf competition.

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Adventures by Disney Expands European Offerings with New Rhône River Cruise, Blending Adventure, Art, and Gastronomy for Families

In 2026, Adventures by Disney will enhance its family vacation offerings in Europe with an exciting new river cruise through southern France along the Rhône River. Guests will journey from Lyon, through the scenic Rhône River Valley and Provence, immersing themselves in the region’s rich history, culture, art, and culinary excellence—all with Disney’s signature storytelling magic. The eight-day, seven-night itinerary aboard the AmaKristina, operated by AmaWaterways, offers a seamless way for families to explore five captivating destinations across Lyon and Provence—all without ever needing to unpack. From stunning mountain views and vibrant wildflower fields to lush vineyards and dramatic canyons, the voyage will highlight the diverse European landscapes. Families will experience unforgettable excursions in Lyon, Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, and Arles, diving deep into the sights, sounds, and flavors of each destination. Each cruise will be guided by Disney-trained Adventure Guides, ensuring smooth, memorable experiences at every step. Families will have the freedom to choose from a range of excursions, including exclusive activities for younger travelers, called “Junior Adventurers,” tailored to make the vacation perfect for everyone.

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Istanbul-Madrid Route Gets A Boost As Air Europa Introduces Direct Dreamliner Service

Air Europa is set to enhance its international connectivity with the launch of a direct Madrid–Istanbul route, scheduled to commence in May 2025.Initially, the airline will operate the route several times a week before ramping up to daily flights by July, offering greater convenience and flexibility for travelers flying between Spain and Türkiye. Passengers will experience the journey aboard the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a cutting-edge aircraft designed for long-haul travel. The Dreamliner boasts spacious windows, advanced noise reduction technology, and superior fuel efficiency, ensuring a more comfortable and eco-friendly flight experience.

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Italy’s Fincantieri Secures New Cruise Ship Deal with Norwegian Line, Surging Global Cruise Tourism

Travelers who follow the cruise industry closely would have learned that Norwegian Line Holdings (NCL) and Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri recently announced an agreement for the construction of four new cruise liners, a deal reportedly valued at 9 billion euros ($9.34 billion). This new order represents the largest contract ever secured by Fincantieri, an Italian shipbuilder that has already delivered two ships for NCL, with a third, the Norwegian Aqua, expected to be handed over in the coming months. Industry sources suggest that the contract is subject to financing and other standard conditions, with Fincantieri having signed an initial letter of intent in April 2024. If all goes according to plan, these ships will be constructed at the Monfalcone shipyard in north-eastern Italy, with the first vessel scheduled for delivery in 2030, followed by additional ships in 2032, 2034, and 2036.

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