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By Nishang Narayan
Published on July 16, 2024
Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury cruising and expedition travel, has introduced a selection of new pre-, mid-, and post-cruise "Seabourn Journeys" available to guests on the 2024 Grand Africa Voyage. These journeys offer in-depth, land-based cruise extensions that go beyond single-day excursions, providing guests with opportunities to immerse themselves in Africa's extraordinary destinations.
The luxurious pre-, post-, and mid-cruise Seabourn Journeys during the Grand Africa Voyage allow guests to further explore Africa's premier destinations. For those interested in joining a safari to see Africa's "Big Five," several mid-cruise Journeys options are available, providing opportunities for guests to stay in unique properties and national parks in Botswana, Namibia, and more. They may also explore sites such as the Kariega Game Reserve (Settlers Drift), Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, and Onguma The Fort. Guests seeking exclusive wine experiences can enjoy gourmet dining and wine tastings at La Residence Wine Estate in Franschhoek during four-day pre- and post-cruise stays.
"Seabourn Journeys allow our guests to create deeper, more immersive experiences of the destinations by extending their travel beyond the first and final ports of calls," said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. "I am very proud of this bespoke collection of offerings and believe our guests will be delighted with these experiences. Whether spotting the 'Big Five' on thrilling game drives, or relaxing in luxurious accommodations, or savoring award-winning wines, every moment is crafted to enhance the voyage and create unforgettable 'Seabourn Moments'."
The new Seabourn Journeys for the Grand Africa Voyage include:
La Residence Wine Experience (4-Day Pre- or Post-Cruise Journey) Cape Town, South Africa | Pre: January 25-28, 2025 | Post: January 28-31, 2025
Guests sailing on shorter segments that either embark or debark in Cape Town on January 28 can enjoy a pre-cruise or post-cruise experience in South Africa's stunning Cape Winelands. Upon arrival in Cape Town, guests are transported to La Residence in the Franschhoek Valley, where they can relax and dine at their leisure in opulent surroundings. The second day features a tour of historic wine estates in Paarl and Boschendal, complete with tastings and a picturesque picnic. On the third day, guests further explore the region's esteemed vineyards and savor gourmet meals paired with local wines. A final morning wine tasting concludes the journey before guests either return home or board the ship.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve (4-Day Post-Cruise Journey) Cape Town, South Africa | January 28-31, 2025
Guests debarking their voyage in Cape Town on January 28 can embark on a multi-day post-cruise journey at the renowned Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. Known for its conservation efforts and luxurious accommodations, Grootbos offers a warm welcome and transfer to the Forest Lodge, where guests stay in elegant suites surrounded by stunning landscapes. Activities include exploring the Milkwood Forest, botanical hikes, 4x4 flower safaris, and visits to the ancient Klipgat Cave and Walker Bay Nature Reserve. A private Cape Agulhas tour features wine tastings and a curated picnic in South Africa's southernmost wine region. Guests also enjoy a marine safari to see the "Marine Big Five"—whales, sharks, dolphins, seals, and penguins—guided by marine biologists from Dyer Island Cruises. Each evening, guests dine at Grootbos' unique lodge restaurants before relaxing in the serene wilderness.
Ultimate Botswana Experience (7-Day Mid-Cruise Journey) Durban, South Africa | January 22-28, 2025
After disembarking in Durban, guests fly to Johannesburg and stay at the Sanctuary Mandela Boutique Hotel, Nelson Mandela's former residence. The next day, they travel to Botswana's Sanctuary Baines' Camp, known for its intimate setting and unique construction using recycled cans, offering game drives and mokoro excursions in the Okavango Delta. On the fourth day, guests transfer to the prestigious Chief's Camp in the Moremi Game Reserve, renowned for exceptional game viewing, including the "Big Five" and over 500 bird species. Guests enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, gourmet dining, and optional activities like scenic flights and spa treatments. The Journey concludes with a final morning game drive before flying to Maun and then Cape Town, where they rejoin Seabourn Sojourn to continue their voyage.
Kariega Game Reserve (4-Day Mid-Cruise Journey) Port Elizabeth, South Africa | January 25-28, 2025
Upon reaching Port Elizabeth, guests are transferred to Kariega Game Reserve, a vast 10,000-hectare wilderness known for its diverse wildlife, including the "Big Five", and abundant birdlife. Guests stay at Settlers Drift, a blend of tented safari and 5-star luxury, with private viewing decks overlooking the Bushman's River. Over the next two days, they enjoy exhilarating morning and afternoon game drives, optional activities, and gourmet dining. On the fourth day, after a final game drive and breakfast, guests are transferred to Port Elizabeth Airport for their flight to Cape Town, where they rejoin Seabourn Sojourn to continue their voyage.
Escape To Etosha: Onguma The Fort (4-Day Mid-Cruise Journey) Cape Town, South Africa | January 29-February 2, 2025
This mid-cruise journey offers a luxurious safari at Onguma The Fort, a magical oasis where guests are treated to breathtaking views of the mesmerizing Namibian sunset. With its prime location overlooking the Etosha Pans, the fort envelops visitors in massive, cool walls adorned with a blend of African, Moroccan, and Indian influences, all while surrounded by diverse wildlife. Highlights include guided game drives to spot the "Big Five" and various antelope species, and opportunities to observe the breathtaking Namibian sunset from the main tower or during a sundowner safari. Visitors can relax in elegant suites with private verandas, indulge in delicious meals, and learn about rhino conservation efforts. After several days of adventure and relaxation, guests fly to Walvis Bay to rejoin Seabourn Sojourn.
The fully escorted Seabourn Journeys have been uniquely curated to give travelers more time in these locations to showcase the very best of the destinations via the experiential excursions they offer over multiple days. Most Seabourn Journey packages include select meals, transportation, and guided experiences for smaller groups ensuring intimate, personalized exposure to the location and its culture. Luxury hotels and lodges have been hand-selected to offer guests accommodations at the finest iconic properties in the best locations that showcase their surroundings and indigenous culture, with transfers between land and sea conveniently timed to the start or finish of scheduled Seabourn cruises.
Departures on most Seabourn Journeys are guaranteed with a minimum of just two guests. In addition, Seabourn offers a wide selection of mid-cruise overland journeys, that can become part of the overall cruise experience.
Departing on November 30, 2024, Seabourn Sojourn will sail roundtrip from Barcelona on a 90-day voyage that includes visits to 42 marquee and off-the-beaten-path destinations and cities in 20 countries, with seven overnight stays. For guests who cannot sail the entire voyage, shorter segments are available, giving guests more flexibility and opportunities to add pre- or post-journeys to extend their experiences. Shorter segments include the following:
27-Day Jewels of Northwest Africa: November 30-December 27, 2024, from Barcelona to Cape Town
17-Day Mozambique Channel Discovery & Zanzibar Nights: December 27, 2024-January 13, 2025, from Cape Town to the Seychelles
59-Day Northwest Africa to The Mozambique Channel: November 30, 2024 - January 28, 2025, from Barcelona to Cape Town
22-Day West African Discovery: January 28 – February 19, 2025, from Cape Town to the Canaries.
For reservations or more details about Seabourn's Grand Africa voyage, please call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391, visit www.seabourn.com, or contact a professional travel advisor.
About Seabourn:
Seabourn represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury ocean and expedition travel and operates a suite of seven modern ships. The all-inclusive, boutique ships offer all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views; award-winning dining; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available at all times; renowned service provided by an industry-leading crew; a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home; a pedigree in expedition travel through the Ventures by Seabourn program and two new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ships, including Seabourn Venture that launched in 2022 and Seabourn Pursuit in 2023. Seabourn takes travelers to every continent on the globe, visiting more than 400 ports including marquee cities and lesser-known
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on November 13, 2026
Qatar Executive, the private jet charter division of Qatar Airways Group, has completed the installation of Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire fleet of Gulfstream G700 and Gulfstream G650ER aircraft. The upgrade brings high-speed internet connectivity to passengers across its ultra-long-range fleet, further strengthening the company's focus on technology and passenger experience.
With Starlink, passengers can access fast, low-latency internet throughout their journey. The service supports video conferencing, streaming, messaging and other business activities, even during some of the world's longest flights. In many cases, the onboard internet experience can match or exceed connectivity speeds available in homes and offices on the ground.
Starlink's global coverage also allows passengers to stay connected while flying over oceans, remote regions and international air corridors, offering a more seamless online experience across long-distance journeys.
The installation was part of an extensive fleet enhancement programme, with most of the work completed in-house by Qatar Executive Engineering and Qatar Airways Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) teams. The project highlights the technical expertise and operational capabilities of teams across the Qatar Airways Group.
As one of the leading operators of ultra-long-range business jets, Qatar Executive continues to invest in technology that improves aircraft operations and passenger experience. Its fleet, led by the Gulfstream G700 and G650ER, connects major financial centres, business hubs and leisure destinations through non-stop long-haul and ultra-long-range flights.
The completion of the Starlink installation marks another step in the company's fleet modernisation plans. By combining its advanced aircraft with next-generation internet connectivity, Qatar Executive aims to help passengers travel longer distances while staying connected and productive throughout their journeys.
By Hariharan U
Published on November 9, 2026
Air India has expanded its Maharaja Club frequent flyer programme with the launch of The Maharaja Shop, a premium lifestyle marketplace that allows members to earn Maharaja Points through eligible purchases across a curated selection of Indian and international brands.
The platform extends the loyalty programme beyond air travel, giving members additional opportunities to build their points balance through everyday shopping. The accumulated Maharaja Points can be redeemed towards Award Flights and Cabin Upgrades on Air India.
The marketplace covers a range of lifestyle categories, including electronics, luggage, travel accessories, fragrances, home essentials, wellness, watches and jewellery. It features products from a curated portfolio of Indian and global brands, with complimentary shipping available on eligible orders.
The initiative adds a retail component to Maharaja Club, enabling members to earn travel rewards through purchases that are not directly related to flying. The platform is intended to create more frequent engagement with the loyalty programme while offering members additional ways to accumulate points.
Alongside its wider lifestyle marketplace, The Maharaja Shop features an exclusive collection of Air India merchandise available only through the platform.
Inspired by the airline's heritage and identity, the collection includes Maharaja magnets and collectibles, aircraft-inspired keychains, lapel pins, postcard sets, coaster sets and travel essentials. The range is aimed at frequent flyers, loyal members and collectors interested in Air India memorabilia.
Eligible purchases from the merchandise collection also allow members to earn Maharaja Points, extending the programme's rewards proposition to products connected with the airline's brand.
Sunil Suresh, Head of Loyalty, E-Commerce and Marketing, Air India, said the marketplace is an extension of the airline's vision to develop Maharaja Club into a lifestyle loyalty programme that rewards members beyond their travel journeys.
He added that bringing together a curated selection of brands would give members more opportunities to earn points through everyday spending. The platform will also serve as the exclusive destination for Air India merchandise, offering members access to branded products beyond the airline's travel services.
Maharaja Club members can currently earn points through Air India, Air India Express and more than 100 partners across airlines, hospitality, retail, lifestyle and financial services.
Members can redeem their points for flights on Air India and Air India Express, as well as on 25 Star Alliance partner airlines. The programme also offers tier-based privileges and access to more than 1,100 airport lounges worldwide.
The Maharaja Shop is available exclusively to Maharaja Club members. Travellers who are not yet enrolled can join the programme to access the marketplace and begin earning eligible points on their purchases.
The launch adds another earning channel to Air India's loyalty ecosystem, connecting retail purchases with future travel benefits.
Explore the platform: The Maharaja Shop
Published on November 2, 2026
As the festive season approaches, Six Senses Bhutan is inviting travellers to exchange crowded itineraries for a slower journey through the kingdom's Himalayan landscapes, cultural traditions and spiritual heritage. Spread across five lodges in Bhutan's western and central valleys, the collection brings together nature-led stays, local experiences, destination dining and wellness programmes.
Each lodge offers a distinct setting and interpretation of Bhutan's landscape. In Thimphu, Six Senses Thimphu, known as the Palace in the Sky, is surrounded by apple orchards and pine forests. In Punakha, the Flying Farmhouse sits amid rice fields in one of the country's warmer valleys.
At Paro, the Stone Ruins lodge is set within 12th-century stone ruins, while Bumthang's Forest in a Forest setting brings guests closer to the surrounding pine forests and river valley. Together, the five lodges offer different perspectives on Bhutan's natural and cultural character.
At Paro, guests can experience Chubjakha Ruins Regale, a candlelit destination dining experience inspired by medieval Bhutan. The evening combines specially crafted cocktails, a Bhutanese menu prepared over an open fire and traditional masked-dance performances.
The lodge also provides a base for an early start to the climb to Taktsang Lhakhang, widely known as Tiger's Nest Monastery, one of Bhutan's most recognised spiritual landmarks.
In Gangtey, the Phobjikha Valley offers a different experience. The valley becomes the winter habitat of endangered black-necked cranes arriving from Tibet each October. Inspired by a traditional birdwatching bridge, the lodge offers views across the landscape, while walking trails and cycling routes allow guests to explore the valley and its conservation environment.
The connection with Bhutanese culture extends to the dining programme through Six Senses' Eat With Six Senses philosophy, which focuses on natural ingredients and wholesome, locally sourced produce.
Guests can explore local food traditions through experiences such as mushroom foraging with a local chef. Other cultural activities include butter lamp lighting ceremonies with monks and visits to monasteries that remain central to Bhutan's spiritual life.
Wellness is another part of the experience, with programmes incorporating sunrise meditation, yoga, holistic spa treatments and traditional Bhutanese hot stone baths.
Rather than positioning the festive season around packed schedules and conventional celebrations, Six Senses Bhutan presents an alternative centred on time in nature, cultural discovery and personal well-being.
Travellers can explore all five valleys as part of a wider journey or choose a single lodge for a more focused retreat. Across the collection, the emphasis remains on experiencing each destination at its own pace, through its landscape, traditions and local communities.
For those looking to close the year with a quieter holiday, the five-lodge experience offers a way to discover Bhutan beyond its familiar landmarks, while making space for rest, reflection and meaningful encounters.
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