ZIPAIR Tokyo launches new Tokyo-Vancouver route starting March 13, 2024, expanding its transpacific network. Tickets on sale from today.

ZIPAIR Tokyo is set to broaden its presence in the transpacific aviation market with the introduction of a new route connecting Tokyo Narita to Vancouver International Airport, commencing on March 13, 2024. This addition marks ZIPAIR Tokyo’s fourth transpacific destination, joining existing routes to Los Angeles, San José Mineta, and San Francisco International Airport. Ticket bookings and sales are slated to start today at 12:00 Japan Standard Time.

Flight Details

• Flight Timetable
• Representative Airfares
• Note: The fares listed are for single journeys per person.
• Additional costs include airport fees, various charges, and taxes.
• Each ticket allows up to 7kg of hand luggage.
• Extra charges are applicable for added services like checked luggage, on-board meals, and more.
• The airline does not add a fuel surcharge.

Additional Service Options

Service Bundles

• Fare Categories (‘ZIP Full-Flat Value’, ‘Standard Value’, ‘U6 Standard Value’)
• Booking: Possible through ZIPAIR’s Official Website or via the Customer Service Center
• Booking Deadline: 90 minutes before the flight’s scheduled departure
• Changes to Date: Not allowed
• Refunds: Not allowed
• A ticketing fee per person, per segment, is charged for bookings made through the Customer Service Center.
• Reservations for children aged 2-6 must be made 24 hours before the flight. For infants (0-1 years), bookings need to be completed 48 hours in advance.

Join us at Six Senses Kanuhura for Art Week (Jan 17-24, 2024) with French artist Lucas Beaufort! Engage in creative workshops and more.

Six Senses Kanuhura is thrilled to host Lucas Beaufort, a renowned French artist-painter, for an exhilarating Art Week from January 17 to 24, 2024. Lucas will be engaging in artistic endeavors throughout various locations at the resort, extending an open invitation to all guests to join in the creative process.

Originating from Cannes, Lucas is a passionate explorer whose artistic muse is fueled by his travels and the diverse individuals he encounters. His creations emanate joy and optimism, focusing on themes of diversity and affection. His works typically depict characters caught in moments of happiness, intertwining in vibrant scenes.

During his visit, Lucas plans to immerse himself in the island’s essence, drawing inspiration from its unique landscape, hues, textures, and flora. Interactions with guests and the local community will also influence his artwork. Guests at the resort are encouraged to collaborate with Lucas, engage in discussions about art, participate in his workshops, or simply observe his artistic process.

Lucas shares, “My world is populated with friendly, playful imaginary beings that shape my positive worldview and influence my decisions. The Maldives, with its myriad shades of blue, holds a special place in my heart. Each hue in its natural spectrum captivates me. I’m exhilarated about my visit to Six Senses Kanuhura, eager to draw inspiration from the island’s enchanting beauty, its multicultural staff, and the fascinating tales they bring.”

The highlight of Art Week, a grand finale, is set for Tuesday, January 23, 2024. This beachside cocktail event will be a momentous occasion where Lucas will eagerly engage with attendees, sharing insights about his artistic journey and inspirations.

Discover Anantara Kihavah’s Epigenetic Dining, blending wellness and culinary art for a unique, personalized dining experience in the Maldives.

Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas unveils its innovative Epigenetic Dining concept, transforming the dining experience into a journey of wellness customization for its distinguished guests. This new venture includes a range of plant-based offerings across all its dining establishments, elevating the standard of individualized wellness dining.

The unique Epigenetic Dining journey starts with a non-invasive epigenetic test. This involves analyzing hair root samples with a bio profiler, yielding an extensive report on the individual’s nutritional status, including levels of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, antioxidants, and potential contaminants.

Post-analysis, guests partake in a 30-minute private session with a wellness specialist from Anantara Kihavah. During this consultation, guests are walked through their test findings, gaining valuable wellness advice and suggestions. A comprehensive, tailored 30 to 90-day wellness regimen is then provided, complete with a detailed analysis of their dietary needs based on the test results.

In collaboration with Anantara Kihavah’s culinary team and a skilled nutritionist, each meal is thoughtfully prepared to align with the guest’s personal wellness objectives, as determined by their epigenetic data.

The Epigenetic Dining experience is epitomized at Manzaru, where guests indulge in a custom-designed menu. Each item, including beverages, is meticulously chosen to complement the guest’s individual epigenetic profile, offering a harmonious blend of outstanding taste and wellness-focused dining.

Embracing holistic well-being and sustainability, Anantara Kihavah also introduces exclusive plant-based menus at Manzaru, Spice, and the SEA Underwater Restaurant. Under the expert guidance of celebrated Holistic Wellness Chef Jamie Raftery, these menus are not just environmentally friendly but culinary marvels that pay homage to the Maldives’ stunning natural environment.

The Epigenetic Dining experience, priced at USD 345++ for individuals and USD 650++ per couple, represents a transformative culinary journey. It’s an amalgamation of scientific insight and creative culinary art, providing guests with meals that are not only delightful but also beneficial for their personal health and well-being.

Six Senses Kanuhura is thrilled to host Chef José Pizarro for two exclusive Spanish-inspired dinners at The Point on January 25 & 26.

The Six Senses Kanuhura resort is thrilled to announce the arrival of renowned Celebrity Chef José Pizarro for two distinctive culinary events at their Spanish-themed restaurant, The Point. Nestled on the picturesque northern beachfront of the island, bathed in the glow of the setting sun, The Point is renowned for its Spanish-inspired cuisine, offering a selection of tapas for communal enjoyment and a comprehensive wine selection. The restaurant’s interactive cooking area and bar-style seating provide a unique opportunity for guests to engage with the chefs, gaining insights into the culinary techniques, ingredients, and stories behind each dish. Emphasizing sustainability and freshness, the kitchen sources local produce and seafood, complemented by classic Spanish elements like cheeses, cured meats, bespoke sauces, and traditional homemade sangria.

In the month of January, the culinary brigade is elated to host Chef José Pizarro at The Point for two unique dining experiences. Hailing from Cáceres, a quaint village in Extremadura, José has honed his craft in some of Spain’s most prestigious kitchens before establishing his presence in London. True to the values of Six Senses, José champions the use of fresh, seasonal produce, focusing on simplicity in his creations. His culinary style is a contemporary take on Spanish classics, deeply rooted in the flavors of his homeland. José’s culinary empire extends across the UK and into Abu Dhabi, and his expertise is also captured in six published works.

During his tenure at Six Senses Kanuhura, José will be showcasing his affinity for Spanish tapas, embracing the island’s bountiful local produce. He expresses his enthusiasm: “Cooking at Six Senses Kanuhura, in the enchanting setting of the Maldives, is a dream come true. I am eager to share this unique gastronomic experience with a sophisticated and gastronomy-loving audience in this slice of paradise.”

Ruwan Nalindra, the Executive Chef at Six Senses Kanuhura, comments on the collaboration: “Collaborating with José Pizarro is an absolute delight. I am keen to delve into his culinary passion and expertise, and together, craft authentic tapas at The Point. Our team is dedicated to elevating the dining experience of our guests and we eagerly anticipate welcoming everyone to these special events.”

Manuel Dominguez, Chef De Cuisine at The Point, adds: “Collaborating with a chef of José Pizarro’s caliber at our live cooking station is always a remarkable experience. José will bring a taste of our shared Spanish heritage, infusing the meals with flavors and memories of Spain, and taking our guests on an extraordinary culinary journey.”

These exclusive dining events are scheduled for Thursday, January 25, and Friday, January 26, at The Point.

In 2024, Benjamin Duncan Moore was greeted as the Maldives‘ first visitor, with a grand welcome at Velena Airport, marking a special celebration.

In 2024, Benjamin Duncan Moore was warmly welcomed as the first visitor of the year to the Maldives. A special event was organized by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives) at Velena International Airport to commemorate this significant event. Hailing from Britain, Benjamin arrived on flight EY278 from Abu Dhabi, embarking on his inaugural journey to the Maldives for a relaxing stay at Villa Nautica.

At the airport, a welcoming committee consisting of representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, MMPRC, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), Maldives Immigration, Dhivehi Raajjeyge Gulhun Public Limited (Dhiraagu), and Crossroads Maldives greeted him. The Tourism Minister, Honourable Ibrahim Faisal, Deputy Managing Director of MMPRC, Mr. Mohamed Bassam Adam, Deputy Chief Officer of AOCC & Customer Relations at MACL, Mr. Ibrahim Hareef, Deputy Head of Airport Division and Deputy Chief Immigration Officer, Mr. Ali Sunan, Director Brand and Marketing Communications at Dhiraagu, Mr. Mohamed Mirshan Hassan, and the General Manager of Crossroads Maldives, Mr. Alexander Traeger, were all present to celebrate this special occasion.

Benjamin was presented with a complimentary vacation courtesy of Crossroads Maldives, including stays at SAii Lagoon Maldives and the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives. He also received various gifts from the Ministry of Tourism, MMPRC, MACL, Maldives Immigration, and Dhiraagu.

In the previous year, MMPRC successfully executed 402 marketing initiatives, including exhibitions, roadshows, familiarization tours, marketing campaigns, webinars, and interviews, reaching an astounding 46.8 billion people. Notably, the Maldives was awarded the title of ‘World’s Leading Destination’ by the World Travel Awards (WTA) for the fourth consecutive year. MMPRC was also recognized as the World’s Leading Tourist Board for the second year running. Additionally, the Maldives was honored with the Global Tourism Resilience Award for its strategic capacity to recover and flourish following disruptions. Throughout the year, the Maldives garnered numerous awards in the global tourism sector, including accolades for resorts, properties, tour operators, and travel agencies.

Looking ahead to 2024, the Maldives tourism sector is set to advance with innovative, research-based marketing strategies. Emphasizing data-driven insights, the MMPRC plans to enhance the promotion of the Maldives as a premier holiday destination. Collaborations with industry stakeholders, NGOs, local councils, and associations are aimed at nurturing a shared vision for sustainable tourism growth. Additionally, there will be a focus on bolstering social media presence and conducting more targeted marketing campaigns.

Dubai, known for its extravagant celebrations, once again outdid itself as Atlantis, The Palm, hosted the ultimate New Year’s Eve party to welcome 2024. The highlight of the evening was a mesmerizing performance by the legendary musician Sting, who captivated the audience with his timeless hits against the backdrop of the stunning Palm Jumeirah.

As the clock struck midnight, Atlantis, The Palm, transformed into a spectacle of lights and music, setting the stage for an unforgettable night. The iconic resort, known for its opulence and grandeur, spared no expense in creating an atmosphere of luxury and celebration. The world-class chefs who prepared the gourmet food for the guests’ opulent gala dinner made sure that every part of the evening was a feast for the senses.

The star-studded event drew a diverse crowd of celebrities, dignitaries, and revellers from around the world, all eager to experience the magic of Dubai’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. The atmosphere was electric as guests mingled and enjoyed the festivities, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

As the anticipation built up for Sting’s performance, the excitement in the air was palpable. As he took the stage, the crowd erupted into cheers, welcoming the music icon with enthusiasm and admiration. Sting delivered a spellbinding performance, showcasing his musical prowess and stage presence as he performed a selection of his greatest hits, including classics like “Every Breath You Take” and “Fields of Gold.” His performance was a fitting tribute to the end of one year and the beginning of another, reminding everyone of the timeless power of music to bring people together in celebration.

The night reached its crescendo with a breathtaking fireworks display that illuminated the Dubai skyline, painting the night sky with vibrant colors and patterns. Against the backdrop of the city’s iconic landmarks, the fireworks added a touch of magic to an already unforgettable evening, marking the beginning of a new year filled with hope, joy, and endless possibilities.

As the celebrations drew to a close, Atlantis, The Palm, once again proved itself as the ultimate destination for luxury and entertainment in Dubai. With Sting’s unforgettable performance and a night of unparalleled extravagance, the resort had set the bar high for future New Year’s Eve celebrations, ensuring that the world would be eagerly anticipating what they had in store for the years to come.

In a remarkable event reflecting the city’s commitment to innovation and cultural celebration, Ho Chi Minh City organised the Awarding Ceremony for the Tourism Check-in Point and Destination Mascot Design Contest 2023 on December 29th, 2023.

The initiative, directed by the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, aimed to infuse the city’s tourism offerings with unique design ideas portraying local culture, history, and people.

Unprecedented Participation and Enthusiastic Response

Under the theme ‘My Beloved City,’ the contest, a collaboration between the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism and VnExpress newspaper, saw an impressive response, with 300 entries pouring in within a month. Architects, artists, and students from Ho Chi Minh City and various provinces contributed their creative endeavors, showcasing a diverse array of ideas.

Practical Applicability and Creativity Blend

Mr. Le Truong Hien Hoa, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, emphasized that the contest aimed for practical and flexible designs applicable to promotional tourism activities. Despite being in its inaugural year and with a brief launch period, the contest garnered significant interest, reflecting the participants’ enthusiasm, creativity, and love for the city.

Interactive Creative Camp and City Exploration

The finalists participated in a Creative Camp from December 15 to December 17, engaging in activities such as a City Tour – Discovering My Beloved City and Meeting the Judges. This allowed authors to explore tourist destinations, receive feedback from judges, and refine their designs. The evaluation process included both judges’ scores (60%) and readers’ votes (40%).

Professor Nguyen Xuan Tien’s Insights

National Teacher, Professor, and Doctor Nguyen Xuan Tien, representing the Contest Judging Panel, commended the creativity and unique artistic intentions displayed in the submissions. He expressed confidence that the award-winning ideas, evaluated and implemented in 2024, would deepen visitors’ impressions of the city, contributing to both domestic and international promotion.

Prize Distribution Reflecting Excellence

The award ceremony distributed prizes totaling 630,000,000 VND, recognizing outstanding works in two categories: Tourism Check-in Model Design and Tourism Mascot Design. The winning entries not only received cash prizes but also gifts from the Organizing Committee, reinforcing the city’s commitment to fostering creativity and showcasing its rich culture.

Future Implementation and Cultural Promotion

In the upcoming phase, the award-winning designs will be considered for actual construction, aiming to be utilized in promotional, advertising, and tourism promotion activities. The implementation of these designs is expected to contribute significantly to the economic, socio-cultural development, and internal and external relations of Ho Chi Minh City.

Exhibition: “Ho Chi Minh City Check!”

Parallel to the Awards Ceremony, an exhibition titled “Ho Chi Minh City Check!” showcased the most outstanding and impressive competition entries, providing an opportunity for the public to engage with the creative endeavors that embody the spirit and essence of Ho Chi Minh City.

Join the 15th Pyeongchang Trout Festival from Dec 29-Jan 28! Enjoy fishing, winter sports, and cultural events in Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang.

The 15th edition of the ‘Pyeongchang Trout Celebration’ commenced on December 29th, a Friday, and will continue until January 28, 2024, a Sunday. Operating hours are from 9 in the morning until 5 in the evening, and the festivities take place at the Odaecheon region in Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang County.

Initiated in 2007, this festival has seen a year-on-year increase in popularity, significantly boosting the local economy and providing employment opportunities in the winter, traditionally a slower season for agriculture.

After a pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event made a triumphant comeback, drawing in 400,000 attendees in its 14th occurrence in 2022. The festival has earned recognition as the ‘2024-2025 Cultural Tourism Festival’ from the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, credited for its innovative and enjoyable offerings.

Coinciding with the ‘2024 Winter Youth Olympics Gangwon,’ starting January 19, 2024, there’s an expectation of an increased influx of international tourists.

The festival’s main attractions include trout fishing, a variety of winter activities, and culinary experiences. Its star attraction is ‘Trout Fishing,’ featuring ice fishing through 15cm holes in the ice, bare-handed fishing, and indoor fishing. In the bare-handed fishing section, participants experience the unique excitement of catching trout with their hands, an engaging alternative to traditional fishing methods.

The indoor fishing area is accessible for all, including children and seniors, with additional support for those trying their hand at trout fishing, both in the bare-handed and Indoor Fishing Center areas.

For those new to trout fishing, there’s a ‘Trout Fishing Class’ led by fishing expert Lee Jeong-gu, offering insights on effective trout catching techniques.

The freshly caught trout can be prepared on-site at adjacent eateries, with a choice of dishes like sashimi or roasted trout. These restaurants offer 15 different trout-based dishes, including spicy raw trout salad, raw trout bibimbap, sweet and sour trout, and spicy trout stew.

Visitors can also indulge in various winter sports at the Snow Square and Ice Square. These include snow sledding, snow rafting, four-wheel ATV rides at the snow palace, traditional sledding, skating, ice-bike riding, bumper car rides, and ice carting at the Ice Square.

The Pyeongchang Trout Festival Committee also organizes the ‘Catch Golden Trout’ contest. Participants catching a golden trout at the fishing center receive a commemorative pure gold plaque.

Chairman Choi Gi-sung commented, “Pyeongchang, known as a winter sports city, is gaining fame as a city of winter festivals. We are committed to ensuring safety and fostering an environment for diverse visitors to relish the Pyeongchang trout festival.”

Nyepi, Bali’s “Day of Silence,” marks the Saka New Year. On March 11th, 2024, the island halts for 24 hours—no lights, music, or activity. It’s a period for introspection, devoid of noise. This deeply spiritual celebration offers a unique chance to engage in self-reflection and purification. Experiencing Nyepi in Bali is a rare opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter, a break from life’s hustle to discover inner tranquility. If Bali’s on your itinerary, Nyepi deserves a spot. Disconnect from the daily chaos and immerse yourself in this profound cultural experience.

Before Nyepi, Bali prepares with rituals like Melasti, purifying symbolic items by the sea, and Mecaru, symbolizing the banishment of negative energies. The Ogoh-ogoh parade precedes Nyepi, showcasing Bali’s rich heritage.

Ngembak Geni: Day of Reconciliation

Following Nyepi, Ngembak Geni promotes forgiveness and renewal. Balinese Hindus embrace this day to seek forgiveness and start anew, fostering unity and joy after the period of silence.

Understanding Nyepi: Cultural Immersion Guide

To honour Nyepi respectfully, adherence to Catur Brata Penyepian rules is vital—abstaining from light, work, travel, and entertainment. Engage in meditation, reflection, and embrace the serene atmosphere.

Engaging in Nyepi’s Traditions

Join the vibrant Melasti procession and the Ogoh-ogoh parade preceding Nyepi. Respectfully observe and participate, immersing in the cultural significance while seeking permission for photos.

Nagi Village: Mesabatan Fire Tradition

Nagi Village in Gianyar offers a unique Nyepi experience. Witness the mesmerizing Mesabatan Fire Tradition, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil through a fiery battle using coconut fibers.

Embracing Nagi Village’s Cultural Essence

Nagi Village, adjacent to Ubud, boasts rich cultural traditions and sustainability. Recognized by TimeOut for its cultural preservation and community spirit, it’s a hidden gem worth exploring.

Preserving Heritage, Fostering Sustainability

The village’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage coexists with sustainable practices, creating a thriving, cohesive community focused on tradition and responsible living.

Nagi Village: A Cultural Gem

Despite its modest size, Nagi Village embodies Bali’s essence—rich culture, spirituality, and communal harmony. Visitors can witness Nyepi traditions and experience the village’s unique charm.

Experiencing the Unforgettable

Engage in Nyepi’s spiritual depth, witness Nagi Village’s vibrant culture, and leave with cherished memories of Bali’s timeless traditions and captivating celebrations.

Cebu Pacific lauded by DSWD for vital aid in crises, transporting 258+ tons of relief in 2023, and committed to ongoing humanitarian efforts.

Cebu Pacific was recently honored by the Department of Social Work and Development (DSWD) for its notable role in providing critical logistical assistance during times of disasters and emergencies.

At a special event to acknowledge volunteers and partners, the DSWD praised CEB and other entities, including government bodies, private groups, and individual volunteers, for their efforts in delivering aid and relief to communities impacted by various crises.

Diana Rose Cajipe, DSWD-Disaster Response Management Group’s Undersecretary, expressed profound appreciation for the support rendered by partners and volunteers to the National Resource and Logistics Management Bureau. She highlighted the crucial role they played in offering swift aid to families affected by different disasters, applauding their exemplary work in easing the hardships of those in need during emergencies.

In the year 2023, CEB impressively transported over 258 metric tons of relief goods, underscoring the airline’s steadfast commitment to aiding communities during difficult times.

Cebu Pacific’s Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Michael Ivan Shau, remarked on the honor of supporting the government’s humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the airline’s mission of connecting and aiding communities, particularly in challenging situations.

As the company looks towards 2024, CEB remains dedicated to its social responsibilities and furthering humanitarian endeavors. The airline is also focused on cultivating partnerships that yield sustainable and meaningful benefits for all.