Jumeirah Expands Into Africa With Exclusive Island & Safari Retreats

Jumeirah Expands Into Africa With Exclusive Island & Safari Retreats

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 8, 2024

Jumeirah, a renowned leader in luxury hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, has expanded its portfolio into Africa with two groundbreaking additions: Jumeirah Thanda Island in Tanzania and Jumeirah Thanda Safari in South Africa. In collaboration with the Thanda Group, this move aligns with Jumeirah’s strategy to diversify its offerings while preserving local culture and ecosystems.

Jumeirah Thanda Island: A Private Tropical Haven

Situated within Tanzania’s protected Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve, Jumeirah Thanda Island is a pristine, five-hectare retreat that redefines exclusivity. Accessible via a short helicopter ride or speedboat, this uninhabited island offers an extraordinary villa with five luxurious suites and two Swahili Bandas, blending comfort with local charm.

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A private chef and a dedicated culinary team curate dining experiences that feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, allowing guests to savor meals in intimate beachside settings. For adventure seekers, the island offers activities such as swimming with whale sharks, diving with turtles, sailing on traditional Arab Dhows, and exploring nearby Chole Island.

In addition to luxury, the island emphasizes conservation. Guests can witness coral reef restoration projects, participate in efforts to protect endangered sea turtles, and engage with Star for Life, an initiative empowering local youth through education and skill development.

Jumeirah Thanda Safari: A Wilderness Retreat

Located in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province, Jumeirah Thanda Safari spans a vast 16,500-hectare private game reserve, home to the Big Five and rich Zulu cultural heritage. The property includes the Royal Thanda Club, a private lifestyle club offering exclusive access to secure wilderness areas, as well as the opulent Jumeirah Residences, which combine adventure with unmatched luxury.

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Guests can immerse themselves in curated safari experiences like guided bush walks, game drives, and cultural programs that celebrate Zulu traditions. Activities for younger guests, such as a junior ranger course, ensure that families enjoy an enriching experience. Future plans include a new lodge and an ultra-luxury tented camp by 2027.

Aligned with Jumeirah’s values, the property supports critical conservation efforts, such as Project Rhino KZN and the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project. These initiatives, combined with Thanda Group’s Star for Life program, highlight a commitment to preserving natural heritage and uplifting local communities.

A Shared Vision for Sustainability and Innovation

Thomas Meier, Chief Operating Officer and Interim CEO at Jumeirah, described the move as a significant step in the brand's mission to create culturally connected, sustainable guest experiences. “Jumeirah Thanda Island and Jumeirah Thanda Safari epitomize our commitment to crafting meaningful moments rooted in culture, conservation, and luxury,” he said.

Pierre Delvaux, CEO of Thanda Group, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the partnership's shared ethos of philanthropy and environmental stewardship. “This collaboration represents a perfect alignment of values, combining luxury with impactful conservation and community support.”

Opening Soon

Both Jumeirah Thanda Island and Jumeirah Thanda Safari will open for bookings in December 2024. These destinations offer an unparalleled blend of exclusivity, cultural immersion, and sustainability, making them a remarkable addition to Jumeirah's global portfolio.


Emirates Skywards Partners with Jet2.com to Offer Flight Rewards

Emirates Skywards Partners with Jet2.com to Offer Flight Rewards

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 24, 2026

Emirates Skywards has announced a new partnership with Jet2.com, giving members the opportunity to redeem Skywards Miles for flight rewards across the airline’s network of more than 75 sun, leisure city, and ski destinations. With this collaboration, the award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates and flydubai continues to strengthen its presence in the UK, offering its four million members in the market greater choice and flexibility.

Commenting on the partnership, Dr Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, said,

‘The UK is one of our top markets and we’re pleased to expand our portfolio to offer millions of members a chance to redeem flight rewards on popular holiday destinations served by Jet2.com. In addition to flight tickets, members can also redeem Miles for meals, extra baggage allowance, preferred seat selection, and more – making it possible to enjoy the perfect start to a holiday, fully covered by Skywards Miles. We’re always looking for new ways to expand our offerings and provide members with the best value, choice, and rewards a loyalty programme can offer.’

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Doug Turner, General Manager of 3rd Party Supply & Distribution at Jet2.com, added,

‘We are very pleased to be partnering with Emirates Skywards, which means we can give even more customers the opportunity to enjoy flights with our award-winning airline. This is a great way for us to continue attracting new customers and we know that our reputation for delivering the very best customer service will be a huge hit with Emirates Skywards members.’

Starting from 8,000 Skywards Miles, including all fees and charges, members can now redeem Miles for flights on Jet2.com. The UK’s third largest airline operates from 14 airport bases, including London Gatwick from March 2026, flying to destinations across Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Canary Islands.

Highlighting the value of this partnership, Emirates Skywards members can earn 18,000 Miles by travelling with Emirates from London to Sydney via Dubai on a roundtrip Premium Economy Flex Plus ticket, which can then be fully redeemed for a Jet2.com roundtrip flight from London Stansted to Majorca. Similarly, members booking two roundtrip Business Class Flex flights with Emirates from Manchester to Dubai can earn 21,000 Miles, redeemable for a Jet2.com roundtrip flight from Manchester to Salzburg for a ski holiday.

Emirates Skywards currently has more than 37 million members worldwide, with its largest membership base in the UK. Members can earn Miles through a wide range of partners, including airline partners such as United, Air Canada, TAP Portugal, and Qantas, as well as hotels, retail, lifestyle brands, and holiday packages.

Recently crowned ‘Best Global Airline Loyalty Program’ at the International Loyalty Awards 2025, Emirates Skywards continues to offer members four tiers of membership, Blue, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, each with exclusive benefits and rewards.

Bookings and redemptions are now open. The number of Miles required for flight rewards will vary based on ticket fares. Terms and conditions apply.


Canberra: A Slow, Family-First Escape for Indian Travellers

Canberra: A Slow, Family-First Escape for Indian Travellers

By Hariharan U

Published on January 23, 2026

As Indian travellers move away from hurried itineraries and packed sightseeing schedules, destinations that offer space, calm and shared experiences are gaining popularity. Canberra, recently ranked among the world’s most relaxing cities to live in for 2026, fits seamlessly into this evolving travel mindset. Known for its unhurried rhythm, clean spaces and easy navigation, the city offers Indian families the chance to slow down and truly reconnect.

Multi-generational travel is fast becoming a defining trend for Indian holidays. Parents, grandparents and children are now travelling together, seeking destinations that balance comfort, safety and meaningful engagement. With a growing number of Indian millennials choosing family trips and skip-generation holidays on the rise, the need for inclusive destinations has never been stronger. Canberra stands out by offering exactly that balance.

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Blending culture, nature and accessibility, Canberra welcomes visitors of all ages. Iconic landmarks such as the Australian Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia and the National Museum of Australia provide enriching experiences without the rush of crowded tourist hubs. Open spaces like the Australian National Botanical Gardens and the National Arboretum Canberra offer peaceful settings for relaxed walks and family picnics.

Nature lovers can explore Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Namadgi National Park, where gentle trails, wildlife spotting and scenic drives cater to different energy levels. While grandparents enjoy lakeside strolls and quiet moments, children can run free in green parks or engage with nearby interactive spaces.

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For young explorers, Canberra offers playful learning experiences that keep curiosity alive. Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre features over 200 hands-on exhibits, making science engaging for all ages. Cockington Green Gardens adds charm with its miniature landmarks and steam train rides, while the National Zoo & Aquarium offers close encounters with wildlife. Lake Burley Griffin remains a favourite for families, whether through relaxed boating, paddleboarding or simply soaking in the scenery.

Couples seeking a quieter, romantic escape also find Canberra appealing. From sunrise balloon flights to leisurely lakeside walks, the city encourages unhurried moments. Café hopping, gallery visits and award-winning dining experiences at places like Pialligo Estate, Beltana Farm and Lunetta add to the city’s understated charm. Evenings often end with intimate conversations over a drink at cosy bars such as Molly or Bar Rochford.

Whether it is a child’s first international holiday, a relaxed trip for grandparents, or a couple’s slow travel escape, Canberra adapts effortlessly to every phase of life. Its welcoming atmosphere, thoughtful infrastructure and gentle pace make it especially appealing to Indian families seeking comfort and connection.

As multi-generational travel continues to shape Indian tourism choices, Canberra is steadily emerging as a destination that feels both refreshing and familiar, a city designed for every generation.


The Hari Hong Kong Marks Valentine’s Day with ‘The Love Chapter’

The Hari Hong Kong Marks Valentine’s Day with ‘The Love Chapter’

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 23, 2026

The Hari Hong Kong is set to welcome Valentine’s Day with ‘The Love Chapter’, a specially designed romantic experience that brings together elegant stays, curated dining, and meaningful moments for couples. Located on Lockhart Road in the vibrant neighbourhood of Wan Chai, the 30-storey hotel offers a refined yet intimate setting for celebrating love.

At the centre of the experience is ‘The Love Chapter’ stay package, which includes accommodation in one of the hotel’s luxurious rooms or suites along with daily breakfast for two. Couples are welcomed with a bottle of Prosecco and a chocolate strawberry bouquet, setting the tone for a relaxed and romantic stay. The package also features The Hari Afternoon Tea for two at The Lounge or The Terrace, an hour-long couple’s yoga session at The Terrace on February 15 this year, a 15% F&B discount at Lucciola and Zoku & Terrace, as well as early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability.

Available for stays from February 10-14, 2026, the package is offered at a special price per night. Guests can enjoy rooms and suites designed by renowned interior designer Tara Bernerd, with sweeping views of Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, The Peak, and Victoria Harbour. The interiors blend warmth and elegance through timber panelling, natural linen wallpaper, plush velvet upholstery, and distinctive art pieces. Bedrooms are thoughtfully separated from marble bathrooms by brass Crittall doors, adding a refined touch to the overall experience.

Dining plays a key role in The Hari Hong Kong’s Valentine’s Day celebrations. Authentic Italian ristorante Lucciola and contemporary Japanese restaurant Zoku will each host Valentine’s Day dinners on Saturday February 14, with two intimate seatings from 6-8pm and 8:30-10:30pm. The Terrace, an alfresco terrace bar framed by greenery, and The Lounge, a relaxed sitting area filled with art and books, will also present Valentine’s Day menus.

Lucciola’s Valentine’s Day set dinner menus begin with a ‘Crudo di Mare’ starter featuring freshly shucked oyster, tiger prawn, Alaskan king crab leg, black mussels, and veraci clam. Main course options include dishes such as ‘Il Filetto di Manzo al Pepe Verde’ with Australian beef tenderloin, mash potato, caramelized onions, Madagascar green pepper sauce, and rose petals, as well as ‘Carnaroli Risotto Rucola, Fragole e Balsamico’ prepared with seven-year-aged Carnaroli risotto, Modena aged balsamic vinegar, daisy flowers, and strawberries. The experience concludes with a blackberry lavender cheesecake, with the set menus available at a special price and inclusive of coffee or tea.

Zoku’s Valentine’s Day menus open with a moriwase sashimi platter showcasing premium seasonal fish and seafood, with an optional half dozen fresh seasonal oysters available at an additional price. Appetiser choices include ‘sous-vide monkfish liver, hana hojiso’ or ‘snow crab, uni and tofu’. For mains, diners can choose from five options such as ‘Uroko yaki’ featuring grilled amadai, cauliflower, sweet potato, yuzu espuma, and kiku flower, or ‘Yuzu Kousho Butaniku’ with pork pluma, bell pepper, morel mushroom, and rose flower. The set menus, inclusive of coffee or tea, finish with a dark chocolate mousse cake accented with blackberry and daisy flower.

The Terrace and The Lounge will also serve indulgent Valentine’s Day treats described as “guilty pleasures”, including blueberry and lavender cheesecake, along with a white and dark chocolate strawberry bouquet paired with a glass of Perrier Jouet Grand Brut Champagne. Across all four dining venues, guests can enjoy a wide selection of cocktails, wines, sweet wines, and bubbles.

With ‘The Love Chapter’, The Hari Hong Kong brings together thoughtful hospitality, elegant dining, and calm experiences, offering couples a well-rounded and memorable way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

For more information and bookings, visit https://www.thehari.com/hong-kong/.

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