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.


Tokyo Skytree Town Brings Iconic Summer Fun for All Ages

Tokyo Skytree Town Brings Iconic Summer Fun for All Ages

By Manu vardhan Kannan

Published on July 25, 2025

As the Indian monsoon sets in, it’s the perfect season to explore Japan’s summer charms—clear skies, buzzing streets, and cultural delights. For Indian travellers seeking an unforgettable holiday, Tokyo Skytree Town offers the ultimate indoor and outdoor experiences in the heart of Tokyo.

Crowned the World’s Tallest Freestanding Tower (634 meters) by Guinness World Records, Tokyo Skytree is more than just a landmark. It’s the centerpiece of Tokyo Skytree Town, which houses Tokyo Solamachi, a vast shopping complex with 300+ stores, alongside an aquarium and planetarium.

Whether you're travelling solo, with friends, or as a family, here’s what’s heating up this summer:

 Toy Story Sky at Tokyo Skytree

Celebrating 30 years of Toy Story magic, this themed event features photo spots, video screenings at the Skytree Round Theater, exclusive merchandise, and special lighting inspired by the beloved franchise, turning Tokyo’s skyline into a Pixar dream.

Pokémon Center Skytree Town: Big Adventure 2025

Running from July 19 to August 31, this bingo-style rally invites Pokémon fans to solve fun challenges throughout Tokyo Solamachi, collecting rewards while exploring the vibrant entertainment complex.

Tokyo Solamachi Summer Festival

Timed with the Sumida Citizens’ Bon Odori Dance Festival, this event blends the nostalgia of traditional Japanese markets with modern mall convenience. Expect festive food stalls, seasonal goodies, and lively vibes across Solamachi Plaza.

Tokyo Skytree Town Beer Festa 2025

Back with a bang, the open-air beer garden transforms the Sky Arena into a Lawn BBQ Park, complete with global brews, street food, BBQ feasts, and misty lawns for children to play and cool off.

So, whether you're after anime magic, gourmet experiences, or cultural charm, Tokyo Skytree Town promises a summer filled with joy, discovery, and unforgettable moments, rain or shine!


BGN Inaugurates Abuja Council, Ushering in New Era of Bartending Excellence

BGN Inaugurates Abuja Council, Ushering in New Era of Bartending Excellence

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 25, 2025

In a historic and vibrant ceremony held on Monday, July 21, 2025, the Abuja Council of the Bartenders Guild of Nigeria (BGN) was officially inaugurated at The Republic@Camden, Gwarimpa, Abuja. This momentous event marks a new chapter in the professional evolution of bartending within the Federal Capital Territory.

The inauguration brought together hospitality professionals, industry stakeholders, and bartenders from Abuja and beyond, as the newly appointed Executive Council of the Abuja branch took their official oath and assumed leadership under the national Guild.

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Anchored by BGN Vice President Abubakar Abdullahi, the event featured opening remarks, formal oath-taking, certificate presentations, and a lively networking session. BGN National President Mr. Emmanuel Oyira delivered an inspiring keynote, stating, “Today marks more than just the swearing-in of a new executive team — it marks a new dawn for Abuja and a defining chapter in the story of bartending in Nigeria. Let this Council not just be a geographic structure, but a model for innovation, a hub for capacity-building, and a platform for raising the bar — in training, in standards, and in representation.” 

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Also gracing the occasion was HRH Emeka Mbonu, a respected hotelier and the visionary behind The Camden Group, including The Republic@Camden, The Camden Hotels, The ChefH@Camden, and Samantha@Camden. In his address, HRH encouraged the new leaders to serve with dedication and creativity, emphasizing their role in shaping the future of hospitality in the capital.

Representing the new council, Ugbobo Vincent, Secretary (Finance), extended gratitude on behalf of the team and assured guests of their commitment to serving the bartending community with integrity and passion.

Executive Council – Abuja State Council:

  1. State Chairman – Joshua Alabi

  2. Deputy State Chairman – Seth Amarh

  3. Secretary (Administration) – Gabriel Onuche

  4. Secretary (Finance) – Ugbobo Vincent

  5. Secretary (Communications) – Wisdom Agbecha Anuoluwapo

The ceremony concluded with the iconic BGN Cocktail Hour — a signature tradition of the Guild where bartenders display their flair and creativity. Guests were treated to a free cocktail tasting experience in a spirited atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie.

With this inauguration, the BGN Abuja Council is set to drive mentorship, innovation, and visibility for bartenders across the region, aligning with the Guild’s broader national vision of raising industry standards and empowering professionals.


Pratt & Whitney Celebrates 100 Years of Aviation Innovation

Pratt & Whitney Celebrates 100 Years of Aviation Innovation

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 24, 2025

Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, proudly marks a century of excellence in aviation, commemorating 100 years since its founding in 1925. The milestone celebrates the company’s enduring legacy of innovation, beginning with the revolutionary R-1340 Wasp radial engine that transformed both military and commercial aviation.

The company’s journey took flight under the vision of Frederick B. Rentschler, who introduced a lightweight, air-cooled radial engine that gained early acclaim with the U.S. Navy. By 1926, the Navy ordered 200 engines, laying the groundwork for Pratt & Whitney’s rapid rise. Its Wasp engines powered hundreds of aircraft through the 20th century, playing a key role in Allied success during World War II, where over 363,000 engines were produced during the war effort.

Adapting with the times, Pratt & Whitney pioneered jet propulsion with the J57 engine, used in iconic aircraft like the Boeing B-52 and commercial jets such as the Boeing 707 and DC-8, ushering in a new era of flight and innovation.

Today, Pratt & Whitney powers over 90,000 engines in service globally. Its GTFTM engine is renowned for its fuel efficiency, used by more than 85 airlines operating the Airbus A220, A320neo, and Embraer E2 jets. The F135 engine powers the advanced Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jet, while its Canadian arm leads the development of engines for business and general aviation, including the PT6 and PW127XT.

Pratt & Whitney’s legacy continues with forward-looking investments in next-generation technologies including hybrid-electric, hydrogen-based, rotating detonation, and adaptive propulsion systems.

“Since our founding, we’ve upheld the mission of building the most dependable engines in aerospace,” said Shane Eddy, President of Pratt & Whitney. “Our 45,000-strong global team lives by our commitment to innovation, safety, and excellence.”

In India, Pratt & Whitney has played a pivotal role for over seven decades, contributing to commercial and defense aviation. Engines like the JT3D and JT9D ushered in India's jet age, while today, the IAE V2500, GTF, and PW127 power numerous aircraft flying across the country. The Indian Air Force relies on Pratt & Whitney propulsion systems for platforms like the C-17 Globemaster III and C-295.

“Our India story is an integral part of our 100-year journey,” said Ashish Saraf, Vice President & Country Head, Pratt & Whitney India. “India continues to play a strategic role in our engineering, digital, and supply chain growth.”

To mark the centennial, Pratt & Whitney is engaging employees through a travelling exhibit that will visit 11 locations globally, including its India Customer Training Center in Hyderabad. The celebration also includes a digital version of the exhibit and a historical marker at the original headquarters in Hartford, Connecticut.

As Pratt & Whitney celebrates a century in flight, its commitment to powering progress and innovation across the skies remains stronger than ever.

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