After a five-year pause, the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Sikkim’s Nathula Pass has resumed, marking a moment of cultural revival and international cooperation. The first batch of 33 Indian pilgrims was officially flagged off by Governor Om Prakash Mathur, along with two nodal officers and one doctor from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).

At the flagging-off ceremony, Governor Mathur shared his pride in seeing this revered journey once again take the route through Sikkim. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for reviving the pilgrimage and praised the Sikkim Government, ITBP, and Indian Army for their coordination in making it happen.

“It is a moment of immense pride for the state of Sikkim that this historic and spiritual journey is progressing through the sacred land of the state,” said the Governor, who also interacted with the pilgrims and wished them well.

The yatra, which was on hold due to the pandemic, is being seen not just as a spiritual revival, but also as a symbol of India-China goodwill. Pilgrims underwent strict medical screenings and a two-stage high-altitude acclimatisation process at the 18th Mile and Sherathang to prepare for the harsh conditions of the Himalayan region, where elevations cross 14,000 feet. An Indian Army official confirmed that all pilgrims had been medically cleared for the journey.

Sikkim’s Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia noted that this moment was historic and beneficial for regional tourism.

“After 5 years, history is being created that devotees from all over India are coming here and getting ready to start the Mansarovar yatra. It gives publicity to Nathu La and adds value to Sikkim tourism,” he said.

Pilgrims expressed deep gratitude for the arrangements. Shalanda Sharma, one of the participants, shared,

“This yatra is starting again after five years through mutual agreement between the Government of India and the Government of China. The arrangements, the hospitality, and the medical attention, we’re truly grateful.”

Another pilgrim, Indar Sharma, appreciated the efficiency of the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) and supporting authorities:

“We are carrying blessings and hope this yatra strengthens India-China ties and allows more pilgrims in the future.”

As per plan, the group was expected to cross over into the Chinese side through Nathula by 9:15 AM, where immigration processes would be completed before heading toward the sacred sites of Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake.

The yatra is being jointly organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation, and Indo-Tibetan Border Police, ensuring a secure and smooth journey for all pilgrims.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Sotheby’s have joined forces to unveil a truly unique travel and culture experience: Masterpieces & The Mediterranean, an exclusive seven-night voyage aboard Luminara, the newest superyacht in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. This luxury experience will be auctioned during Sotheby’s Summer Marquee Sale in London, with bidding open from June 20–30, 2025.

Departing October 17, 2025, from Rome and concluding in Barcelona, the itinerary covers glamorous Mediterranean ports including Livorno, Portofino, Saint-Tropez, and Mallorca. The winning bidder and a guest will stay in the prestigious Owner’s Suite aboard Luminara, enjoying panoramic sea views, personalised service, and curated fine dining — including a modern Italian tasting menu at Seta su Luminara, helmed by award-winning Chef Fabio Trabocchi.

Elevating this voyage further is a bespoke cultural itinerary curated in collaboration with Sotheby’s specialists. Guests will gain behind-the-scenes access to private art collections and institutions, such as:

• A private tour of the founder’s residence at FAMM (Femmes Artistes du Musée de Mougins) in Florence.

• A curator-led exploration of the FAMM museum in Saint-Tropez, home to the Levett Collection.

• An exclusive visit to Fondation Maeght to view Barbara Hepworth: Art & Life.

• A Provençal lunch at the iconic La Colombe d'Or in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, surrounded by original works of Picasso, Matisse, and Calder.

"The Mediterranean has always been a vibrant crossroads of artistic exchange," shared Ottilie Windsor, Co-Head of Contemporary Art, London. "This initiative invites guests to experience art as a living continuum, shaped by place, memory, and dialogue."

"This extraordinary voyage reflects our passion for creating journeys that connect, inspire, and leave a lasting impression," said Gaby Aiguesvives, CMO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

George Hammer, Global Head of Luxury Marketing at Marriott International, added, “At the Luxury Group, we believe in offering guests rare access, meaningful connection, and storytelling that stays with them long after their journey ends.”

As part of the partnership, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will be the Presenting Partner of Sotheby’s Fine Art Marquee Auction and co-host a private brunch in London on June 22, 2025.

Following four previous successful auctions of bespoke travel experiences, Masterpieces & The Mediterranean affirms the shared vision of The Luxury Group and Sotheby’s: to craft luxury journeys that rival the emotional impact of great works of art.

For details or to view the listing, visit sothebys.com/MediterraneanYachtVoyage.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises® has pushed the boundaries of luxury travel yet again with the reveal of the Skyview Regent Suite, the largest all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruise suite in maritime history. Set aboard the soon-to-launch Seven Seas Prestige™, this two-level masterpiece measures a staggering 8,794 square feet and starts at $25,000 per night.

Slated to debut in December 2026, Seven Seas Prestige will embark on 13 voyages across Europe and the Caribbean, offering a new level of opulence across 12 suite categories. Among these, the Skyview Regent Suite is the crown jewel—featuring panoramic ocean views, 3,703 sq. ft. of wraparound balcony space, a private in-suite elevator, a floating staircase, two bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, and a fully equipped private gym, spa, and massage room.

Guests will also have exclusive access to The Study, a private dining venue that seats 12, nestled between the ship’s signature restaurants—Chartreuse and Prime 7. Designed by Studio DADO, the suite’s interiors blend modern Italian influences with handcrafted luxury—from sculptural leather wall panels to a custom-crafted Flou bed positioned for ocean-facing slumber.

The experience goes far beyond space and style. Guests in the Skyview Regent Suite enjoy a wealth of ultra-luxurious inclusions:

• A dedicated personal butler

• Daily Serene Spa & Wellness® treatments

• A private car with driver and guide in every port

• Caviar service, designer bath amenities, in-suite Dom Pérignon and Louis XIII Cognac

• Unlimited laundry, personalized stationery, curated linen menus, and more

Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer for Regent Seven Seas, remarked,

“At nearly 9,000 square feet, this breathtaking two-level suite delivers the most exclusive and elevated experience at sea, complete with every imaginable luxury included in the voyage fare.”

Inaugural voyages for Seven Seas Prestige begin with a transatlantic journey from Barcelona to Miami. Subsequent itineraries span the Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Europe, including overnight stays in cities like London, Lisbon, and Bordeaux, and visits to private islands like Harvest Caye, Belize.

Guests can register their interest starting June 11, 2025, with bookings opening on June 25 via RSSC.com/ships/seven_seas_prestige, calling 1-844-4REGENT (1-844-473-4368) or contacting a professional Travel Advisor.

With the Skyview Regent Suite and the upcoming launch of Seven Seas Prestige™, Regent Seven Seas Cruises continues to define The Most Inclusive Luxury Experience® on the high seas—where elegance, comfort, and exclusivity sail together.