Sandals Resorts Nurture Ocean Ambassadors- World Oceans Day

'SEA' THE CHANGE: Sandals Resorts International Empowers Ocean Ambassadors on World Oceans Day

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 12, 2024

From Welcoming Renowned Aquanaut Fabien Cousteau to Celebrating Women Divers, A Look Inside the Caribbean All-Inclusive Resort Company's Initiatives to Empower Ecosystems Below the Surface

Sandals Resorts International (SRI), a leading Caribbean all-inclusive resort company, proudly unveils its latest initiatives aimed at ocean conservation and education as part of their World Oceans Day celebrations. This annual United Nations event, celebrated on June 8th, is a call to 'awaken new depths' through exploration, collaboration, and commitment to ocean preservation, resonating deeply with SRI's ethos.

Welcoming Aquanaut Fabien Cousteau and PROTEUS™ Scientists to Sandals Royal Curaçao: The Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao, renowned for its vibrant marine life and fringing reef system, is set to host the "International Space Station of the Ocean" – PROTEUS™. Led by famed aquanaut Fabien Cousteau and his team, PROTEUS™ aims to advance underwater research and innovation. Recently, Sandals Royal Curaçao facilitated the PROTEUS™ team's data collection expedition, supported by Sandals' PADI-certified scuba diving program and watersports experts.

"Virtually everything you love and cherish about the beach, including the feel-good aspects of walking by the shoreline, is because of the ocean. Healthy oceans mean a healthy future, and we're grateful for partners like Sandals who share our passion for taking action to improve them," Cousteau said.

Future Goals: Kids on a Quest to Save the Sea: Launched in 2022, the Future Goals program has transformed recycled plastic bottles and fishing nets into colorful soccer goals for local primary schools in Curaçao. This initiative, a collaboration between Sandals Resorts, the Sandals Foundation, and AFC Ajax, aims to inspire sustainability through sports. The program has recycled 3,858 pounds of plastic and 2,045 square feet of fishing nets, creating 46 soccer goals. To mark the end of another successful academic year, students were invited to participate in the Future Goals: Art Challenge, using recycled materials to create art, with winners featured on billboards across the island.

A Decade of Women's Dive Day: Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Women's Dive Day at Sandals Ochi in Jamaica (July 18-22) will feature specialty dives, curated programs, and on-resort activities. Female divers of all levels are invited to participate in the event, which includes an all-women panel, beach clean-up, and other sea celebrations. For more information, visit Sandals.com/womens-dive-weekend.

The Caribbean's Top All-Inclusive Diving Program: Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts offer guests the opportunity to engage in ocean conservation through their all-inclusive dive programs. Guests can enjoy unlimited scuba diving with PADI-certified instructors, participate in coral restoration dives, and earn lionfish hunting certifications. The Sandals Foundation, celebrating 15 years, has engaged over 82,000 volunteers in environmental and ocean awareness education since 2009.

"From the privilege of immersing travelers in the unique wonders of Caribbean life under the sea to preserving these fragile ecosystems for generations to come, we take a truly holistic approach to this amazing sport to create experiences that are not only memorable but impactful," said Michael Clarke, Corporate Director of Watersports at Sandals Resorts International.

About Sandals Resorts International:

Sandals® Resorts offers the most-awarded luxury all-inclusive vacation experiences in the Caribbean, with 18 beachfront settings across several islands. Renowned for their innovative approaches, including the Caribbean's first Overwater Villas, Sandals Resorts create moments for guests to reconnect and focus on what matters most. Their philanthropic arm, the Sandals Foundation, underscores their commitment to the transformative power of tourism. For more information, visit www.sandals.com.

TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

As Japan gears up for its much-awaited cherry blossom season, Tobu Tower Skytree Co., Ltd. has announced a special spring programme titled “THE Sakura SKYTREE – Going to Meet the Cherry Blossoms Above the Clouds” at TOKYO SKYTREE. The limited-period experience will run from February 26 to April 14, 2026, offering visitors a fresh way to enjoy sakura from 350 metres above ground.

Designed as an alternative to traditional park hanami, the event brings cherry blossom viewing into an urban, elevated setting. Located on the Tembo Deck at Floors 350 and 340, the experience blends sakura-inspired installations with wide, uninterrupted views of Tokyo, allowing visitors to enjoy spring scenery from above the city skyline.

Built around the theme “Sky × Sakura,” the Tembo Deck will be transformed with cherry blossom décor and Japanese-style photo installations. The setting reflects the fleeting beauty of sakura while creating striking visual moments for visitors. With the Tokyo skyline as a backdrop, the space offers a modern interpretation of spring that combines tradition with a sense of scale and spectacle.

For evening visitors, a key attraction will be the seasonal showcase at the SKYTREE ROUND THEATER® on Floor 350. The observatory’s large windows will turn into a panoramic screen for a three-minute visual presentation capturing the delicate and short-lived nature of cherry blossoms. Using 24 projectors and surround sound from 13 speakers, the experience adds a cinematic layer to hanami, bringing together culture, technology, and storytelling.

Adding to the seasonal feel, the SKYTREE CAFE on Floor 350 will launch a limited-edition cherry blossom-themed menu. The offerings will include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with spring-inspired sweets. Highlights include donuts in “Sakura Mochi” and “Sakura Sky Vanilla” flavours, made as 100% plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free options. The menu is designed to be visually appealing and easy to share, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The spring theme will also extend to the W1SH RIBBON monument on the Tembo Deck, where limited-edition pink ribbons will be available during the event period. Visitors can tie their wishes onto the softly lit pink installation, reflecting themes of renewal and fresh beginnings associated with the season. The monument lighting will also shift to pink to match the overall décor.

On selected evenings, TOKYO SKYTREE itself will light up in special spring illumination called “Sakura SKY (Sakura-Sora).” Inspired by cherry blossoms set against a spring sky, gentle pink beams will represent petals floating in the wind, turning the tower into a seasonal highlight visible across the city.

With immersive décor, visual storytelling, seasonal food, and special lighting, “THE Sakura SKYTREE” positions TOKYO SKYTREE as a standout attraction during spring. By presenting the cherry blossom season from 350 metres above ground, the event offers visitors an experience that feels modern, memorable, and uniquely Tokyo.

Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

TIYA, a Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant, has announced the appointment of Chef Bobby as its new Sous Chef. The move underlines the restaurant’s continued focus on quality, innovation, and refined modern Indian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

In his new role, Chef Bobby will oversee day-to-day kitchen operations at TIYA. His responsibilities include ensuring smooth service, refined plating presentation, well-balanced flavours, and consistent portion control. Through his leadership, the restaurant aims to further strengthen its position as a premium modern Indian dining destination known for creativity, precision, and memorable guest experiences.

Before joining TIYA, Chef Bobby worked as Sous Chef at Madras Group Inc., located at 1177 W El Camino Real, Sunnyvale. There, he supported the Executive Chef in running high-performing kitchen operations. His role included supervising and training culinary teams, maintaining HACCP and ServSafe food safety standards, handling inventory and supplier coordination, and contributing to cost control and menu innovation. His involvement in recipe development and tasting menu execution played a key role in maintaining high dining standards.

Earlier in his career, Chef Bobby gained valuable experience as a Demi Chef de Partie at The Quorum, Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road, and as a Commi at Hotel Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar. He began his professional journey at Aamod Resorts, Kandaghat, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, where he built a strong foundation in kitchen operations and hospitality discipline.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Bobby said, “Joining TIYA, a Michelin Guide restaurant, as Sous Chef is an exciting milestone in my culinary journey. The brand’s vision of redefining modern Indian cuisine resonates deeply with my passion for innovation and excellence. I look forward to contributing to TIYA’s continued growth and delivering memorable dining experiences to our guests.”

With experience across well-known hospitality brands in both India and the United States, Chef Bobby’s appointment marks a meaningful step forward for TIYA as it continues to raise the bar for modern Indian fine dining in San Francisco.

Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

By Hariharan U

Published on February 24, 2026

As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Novotel Cairo Airport welcomes guests to experience the season in an atmosphere defined by serenity, reflection, and heartfelt hospitality. Designed for both Cairo residents seeking a peaceful retreat within the city and travellers exploring Egypt’s capital, the hotel offers a setting where the spirit of togetherness takes centre stage.

Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport focuses on creating meaningful moments. Guests can slow down, reconnect, and embrace the traditions of the holy month while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing stay. The property’s dining venues present thoughtfully curated Iftar and Sohour experiences, blending traditional Ramadan flavours with contemporary touches. Each meal is crafted to bring families, friends, couples, and colleagues together around the table in celebration.

For corporate guests, the hotel provides fully equipped banquet rooms and dedicated facilities suited for Iftars, Sohour gatherings, and Ramadan celebrations. The spaces are designed to encourage connection and appreciation, offering organisations a welcoming environment to host teams and partners during the blessed month.

A highlight of the season is the exclusive Ramadan dessert display, available throughout the day. Guests can indulge in a carefully selected assortment of oriental pastries, featuring both classic favourites and delicately crafted treats that reflect the flavours of Ramadan. Whether enjoyed on-site or taken home to share, the sweet offerings add a festive touch to the experience.

More than a destination to stay or dine, Novotel Cairo Airport positions itself as a place where Cairo’s Ramadan evenings come alive with warmth and community spirit. It is a space to unwind after a long day of fasting, reflect on the blessings of the season, and create lasting memories.

Part of the global Accor portfolio, Novotel operates over 590 hotels across more than 65 countries and participates in the ALL – Accor Live Limitless lifestyle loyalty programme, offering members access to rewards and exclusive experiences worldwide.

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'SEA' THE CHANGE: Sandals Resorts International Empowers Ocean Ambassadors on World Oceans Day

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TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

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Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

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Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

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