Author: Tuhin Sarkar

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AMERICA BLOG

American sky lights up with sparkles in pride on 4th July

America is ready to celebrate its 247th birthday with great food, fireworks, and warm celebration of the Independence Day on 4th July started in Philadelphia in 1777, and today, nearly every big city up here in town set off fireworks on the big day.

This year’s ‘pyrotechnic salute to America’ will feature a variety of new effects during this year’s show, and viewers can expect to see an average of 2,400 shells and effects per minute.

New York

The Big Apple hosts one of the largest Independence Day celebrations in the country with the iconic Macy’s Fireworks Show. After a play-down presentation last year, the production is back to full force, with more than 65,000 fireworks flaring up from the Brooklyn Bridge along the East River. A second, smaller show takes place on the Coney Island boardwalk immediately afterward. Spend the holiday weekenup and enjoying everything New York offers, including Times Square, Central Park, and others.

Chicago

The Windy City is back – and keen to show it. Navhosting host a fireworks show above Lake Michigan every Wednesday and Saturday (including July 4th weekend) this summer through September 4. That gives again chance to celebrate the Rocket’s red glare again and again in one of the most powerful cities in the country. Wrigley Field just rebounded to total capacity, so find time to enjoy America’s favorite pastime by rooting for the Cubs.

Washington, D.C

The nation’s capital will see fireworks appear active over the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and other iconic landmarks on the National Mall. The presentation kicks off, with a concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capital with the National Symphony Orchestra and other entertainers. Just at the exterior of the city in Virginia, Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington, will organize its own Independence Day events.

San Diego

San Diego, with its warm sun, a bayside breeze, and a variety of events,, provides the opportunity to experience Big Bay Boom, an extensive fireworks celebration in the city. It has 17 minutes worth of explosions arising from barges strategically placed along the coast. Seaworld also organizes its own fireworks show. Families in Santee can enjoy the holiday with Santee Salutes at Town Center Park East, highlighting music, food vendors, and a dual fireworks display.

Nashville

Music City knows how to party, and that’s for the most part true for America’s birthday on July 4. Nashville’s downtown festival – Let Freedom Sing! – assures to be bigger than ever, showing the city’s resilience from not only the pandemic but also from the destruction of both blow-to-bits and tornadoes past year. The event’s highlight is Brad Paisley, with the Nashville Symphony playing live to a spectacular fireworks show over the Cumberland River.

Las Vegas

Sin City usually saves the fireworks for New Year’s Eve, but Las Vegas is going the extra mile to celebrate its recent night fireworks show will bang from the rooftops of seven resorts, including Caesars Palacenew brand-new new brand-new Resorts World. Host a perfect vacation on the Las Vegas Strip to enjoy the colorful exhibition. In the west suburbs, Summerlin hosts a patriotic parade on July 4 and fireworks league minor-league baseball games at the Las Vegas Ballpark on July 2 and July 3.

Imagine the sky above coming alive with vibrant bursts of color, creating a mesmerizing display of light and sound. As –the sun sets and the first fireworks you can see the enchantment and magic that only a fireworks show can deliver. From twinkling cascades to breathtaking explosions, the sparklers fill the sky with a symphony of color, entertaining audiences of all ages.

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American Travel News TRAVEL NEWS

US cities opt for environmental friendly drones instead of fireworks

As fire threats and environmental concerns continue to rise, several cities across the United States are opting for environmentally friendly drone light shows instead of traditional Fourth of July fireworks.

Salt Lake City, Utah, recently held its first-ever drone show, with Mayor Erin Mendenhall emphasising the need to minimize fire danger and reduce air pollution caused by pyrotechnics. Utah experiences an average of 800 to 1,000 wildfires annually, making it one of the most wildfire-prone states.

Following a similar trajectory, Boulder, Colorado, which is currently in its wildfire season, will also replace its longstanding fireworks display with a nighttime drone show. The decision was driven by factors such as increased fire danger due to climate change. Additionally, difficulties in sourcing fireworks and the environmental impacts influenced the city’s move toward drones. The committee responsible for the celebrations took into account the Marshall Fire that occurred in the community 18 months ago.

In California, communities like Lake Tahoe, La Jolla, and Ocean Beach are also embracing synchronized drone events as a more environmentally friendly option. For example, La Jolla, which has been without fireworks for the past five years, decided to explore drone shows as a solution. Drones offer the advantage of being quiet, reusable, and devoid of smoke, debris, and excessive noise that can cause distress to animals and individuals with PTSD, especially in military-heavy areas like San Diego.

The drone shows are designed to simulate fireworks through the use of pixel lights, display aerial animation, and even tell stories using motion graphics. Companies like Drone Studios, which handled the La Jolla light show, have been working closely with these communities to provide visually stunning and environmentally conscious alternatives to traditional fireworks displays.

With the shift toward drone shows, cities are not only prioritizing the safety of their residents and the preservation of their environment but also finding innovative ways to celebrate Independence Day. These drone displays offer a unique and mesmerizing experience while significantly reducing the risks associated with fireworks, such as fire hazards and air pollution. As cities continue to adapt to changing circumstances and embrace sustainable practices, the popularity of drone shows as an alternative to fireworks may continue to grow.

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American Travel News TRAVEL NEWS

Extreme weather condition looms Independence Day celebrations across the United States

Independence Day celebrations across the central, southern, and eastern United States are at risk as meteorologists warn of potentially severe thunderstorms on Tuesday.  

The meteorological experts highlight the primary danger of lightning strikes for those spending time outdoors during the holiday. As a precautionary measure, people are advised to seek shelter indoors upon hearing distant thunder, as picnic pavilions, tents, and golf carts do not provide adequate protection. Standing beneath trees or on porches is also hazardous.

Thunderstorms are expected to be active across a vast region spanning the eastern and southern United States, from Tuesday afternoon to evening. This includes areas from New York City to eastern Arkansas and northeastern Louisiana. Some thunderstorms may become severe, accompanied by flooding downpours, strong wind gusts, and hail. The strongest storms could produce wind gusts between 55 and 65 mph, with the possibility of an AccuWeather Local StormMax  gust reaching 80 mph. Such winds surpass the minimum threshold for a Category 1 hurricane (74 mph).

Coastal areas may experience a delayed onset of thunderstorms due to the presence of a sea breeze acting as a temporary buffer. However, when the sea breeze weakens in the evening, thunderstorms are likely to push through and move offshore. By sunset, the majority of thunderstorms in New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., are expected to have shifted eastward. However, light winds and residual moisture in the air could create hazy and foggy conditions, potentially impacting visibility during fireworks displays.

Throughout Tuesday evening, central and eastern New England, as well as southeastern Virginia and portions of the Southeast along the Interstate 20 and 85 corridors, may experience persistent clouds, showers, and isolated thunderstorms. Meanwhile, a large area of severe weather is anticipated over the Plains, including parts of Colorado, Wyoming, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Major cities such as Denver, Minneapolis, and Omaha are at risk for severe weather, including damaging winds, hail, torrential downpours, and even a few tornadoes.

On Wednesday, while thunderstorm intensity and coverage are expected to diminish in the Eastern states, the central United States will remain at risk. Portions of northeastern Mexico, eastern Colorado, western Kentucky, Indiana, and the western Lower Peninsula of Michigan may experience severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall and frequent wind gusts of 60 to 70 mph. Major cities like Denver, Chicago, St. Louis, and Kansas City are within the potential impact zone.

The risk of severe weather will persist on Thursday, primarily in parts of the Plains, including Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, and Wyoming. There is the possibility of a severe thunderstorm complex developing in northeastern Colorado and moving southeastward into Kansas during Thursday night.

While thunderstorms are not expected west of the Rockies, dangerous conditions may arise due to building heat and smoke from wildfires in western Canada, affecting outdoor activities in parts of the Northwest.

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American Travel News News Pick TTW APP NEWS

Everything red, white and blue: USA celebrates its 247th anniversary

Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a significant holiday in the United States. It commemorates the country’s declaration of independence from Great Britain in 1776.

Americans across the nation come together to celebrate this patriotic occasion with various festivities, including parades, barbecues, and fireworks. As the holiday falls on a Tuesday, many people are granted a long weekend, allowing for extended celebrations and increased travel.

This year, record-breaking numbers of Americans are expected to hit the roads and take to the skies to partake in the festivities. However, severe weather and technological malfunctions have caused disruptions at Washington, DC airports, impacting travel plans. Despite these challenges, the spirit of Independence Day remains strong as Americans gather to honor their history and enjoy the celebrations.

Travel and Record-Breaking Numbers

The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects that a record-breaking 51 million people will travel 80km or more by road during the Independence Day holiday.

 This marks an increase of more than 4% compared to the previous year, reflecting a desire to return to normalcy after the COVID-19 pandemic. Air travel is also expected to reach new heights, with 4.17 million Americans predicted to fly, representing an 11% increase from last year.

 This surge in air travel is the highest percentage seen in nearly two decades and exceeds pre-pandemic levels for the first time in four years. The anticipation for a memorable Independence Day celebration is evident as Americans embark on journeys to reunite with loved ones and enjoy the holiday festivities.

Severe Weather Challenges

While Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day, severe weather conditions have created challenges across the country. The US has experienced storms, dangerous heatwaves, and high humidity in parts of the South and Midwest.

Tragically, these weather conditions have led to the loss of at least 14 lives. In addition to the devastating impact on individuals and communities, the severe weather has also caused disruptions in travel plans.

Washington, DC airports have encountered technological malfunctions, resulting in dozens of flight delays and cancellations. These weather-related difficulties are a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the summer season but have not dampened the spirit of Americans determined to commemorate their nation’s independence.

Celebrations in the Nation’s Capital

President Joe Biden plans to host a celebration at the White House, extending his gratitude to members of the military, veterans, and their families. The event will include a traditional barbecue, symbolizing the essence of American summer celebrations.

Meanwhile, in Washington, DC, hundreds of thousands of people are expected to gather along the National Mall to attend the yearly Independence Day Parade and concert.

This festive occasion showcases the rich cultural heritage and patriotic spirit of the nation. The grand finale of the celebration is the renowned fireworks display, illuminating the night sky with a spectacular showcase of colors and patterns. The festivities attract people from all walks of life, uniting them in the shared celebration of freedom and independence.

Security Measures and Challenges

In light of recent events and concerns regarding public safety, security measures have been significantly enhanced in Washington, DC, for Independence Day celebrations.

 Law enforcement officials have pledged to deploy “very, very robust” measures to ensure the safety of attendees. A substantial number of security forces, including a heightened police presence, will be visible throughout the capital. The goal is to create a secure environment that allows visitors to enjoy the celebrations without apprehension.

Unfortunately, Independence Day has historically seen higher rates of mass shootings in the US compared to any other day of the year. Recent incidents, such as the shooting at a party in Baltimore, remind us of the challenges faced in maintaining public safety during large-scale events.

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AIRLINE NEWS American Travel News News Pick TTW APP NEWS

4th July air travel delays as hundreds of flights cancelled

delta airlines

US airports are experiencing travel chaos on the eve of Independence Day, with over 100 million Americans under extreme weather warnings. Flight delays and cancellations have affected more than 3,000 flights within, into, or out of the US, making it a challenging week for airlines.

United Airlines has been particularly impacted, with over 300 postponed flights and more than 5,000 delays and cancellations in the past week. The carrier blamed thunderstorms at its largest hub in Newark, New Jersey, for creating an “extended limited operating environment.” The situation has led to operational challenges and frustrations for both airlines and passengers in Independence Day also.

In response to the chaos, United Airlines is compensating heavily affected customers with 30,000 frequent flier miles. However, this offer did little to help one Atlanta family who experienced being stuck in three different airports for five days. United Airlines’ CEO, Scott Kirby, admitted the difficulties and issued an apology. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg attributed the chaotic travel situation to severe weather, which has placed immense pressure on the system. The Federal Aviation Administration plans to hire additional air traffic controllers to alleviate the strain.

As the Fourth of July long weekend approaches, concerns arose regarding potential flight disruptions due to the new 5G rollout around airports. However, the Department of Transportation stated that there have been no significant disruptions related to this issue. Thunderstorms with hail are forecasted across the eastern US, while a heatwave continues to affect the southern states. Power outages resulting from storms have left over 150,000 Midwest residents without electricity. The heatwave is expected to shift up the west coast, impacting California and Oregon.

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Morocco has been announced as premier partner of WTM London 2023

Morocco is the premier partner of WTM London 2023. The partnership with World Travel Market, 6-8th November, will turn the spotlight on Morocco.

The premier partnership announcement comes as Morocco experiences growth in its tourism activity, aiming to double the number of incoming tourists to 26 million by 2030, elevating Morocco as a leading leisure destination to the world’s travel trade.

It is already known that Morocco’s presence at World Travel Market London will focus on the “Morocco, Kingdom of Light” international campaign of the Moroccan National Tourism Office.

Launched in April 2022, this campaign was designed to inspire a new generation of traveller, showcasing the attractions and experiences of a “contemporary and dynamic” nation.

World Travel Market, the most influential travel and tourism event in the world, provides the perfect opportunity for Morocco to demonstrate its efforts in joining the league of highly favoured destinations.

Morocco’s relationship with WTM spans far beyond Premier Partner of the flagship London event, as the destination has also seen tremendous success participating in ATM, ILTM, IBTM, IFTM, and IGTM. The Moroccan National Tourism Office is relying on commercial events to boost the activity of all Moroccan tourism professionals.

Adel El Fakir, General Director of the Moroccan National Tourism Office, said, that their presence at WTM London will be an excellent showcase to further boost the attractiveness of the Moroccan tourism destination. We will thus be in the heart of the action when tourism professionals from around the world come up with new products for 2024 and beyond, and we will also be at the forefront in terms of communication and promotion of the country.

Juliette Losardo, Exhibition Director at World Travel Market London, said that they are thrilled to announce Morocco as Premier Partner for World Travel Market London 2023 and excited to support them in reaching their goals for 2030. WTM London is the world’s most influential travel and tourism event, as well as being the sourcing hub for international travel buyers, and so provides the ideal place for Morocco to showcase what they have on offer, highlighting their vibrant culture and incredible hospitality.

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Travel And Tour World unveils its July edition. Read now!

Barbados

Travel And Tour World Magazine is thrilled to announce the release of its highly anticipated July edition. With a focus on extraordinary destinations and innovative travel experiences, this edition promises to inspire wanderlust and ignite a sense of adventure. Read now from this link.

The captivating Cover Story transports readers to Romania’s Salina Turda, an enchanting underground amusement park nestled within the depths of a former salt mine. Discover the surreal beauty of this unique attraction and immerse yourself in its magical ambiance.

In the Destination Diary, the magazine whisks readers away to the Caribbean gem of Barbados. Explore the sun-soaked beaches, delve into the island’s rich history, and indulge in its vibrant culture. Barbados awaits with open arms.

The Meeting Points segment spotlights Adelaide’s impressive convention centers. The Adelaide Convention Centre, with its state-of-the-art facilities and breathtaking views of the River Torrens, proves to be an ideal venue for a range of events. Additionally, the Adelaide Showgrounds offers versatile spaces for exhibitions, conferences, and trade shows, setting the stage for unforgettable gatherings.

Tech enthusiasts will appreciate the Tech It feature, which delves into the synthesis of technology in green hotels. Discover how these innovative establishments harmoniously combine sustainable practices with cutting-edge solutions, paving the way for a greener and more responsible future.

The Special Feature takes readers to Thailand’s Khao Yai National Park, a nature lover’s paradise. Immerse yourself in the lush forests, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and encounter diverse wildlife. Khao Yai National Park offers an escape into the wonders of the natural world.

Lastly, indulge in the luxurious world of airport lounges in the Travel Tendency segment. Discover how these havens redefine travel comfort and elegance. Relax in plush seating, savor gourmet cuisine, and indulge in premium beverages while awaiting your flight.

The July edition of Travel And Tour World Magazine is a must-read for travel enthusiasts, offering a captivating blend of exceptional destinations, insightful features, and the latest trends in the travel industry. Embark on a journey of discovery and let your wanderlust be ignited.

Download and read Travel And Tour World Magazine’s July edition and let your imagination soar. Happy reading and happy travels!

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Destination News TRAVEL NEWS

“The Dynamic Eye: Beyond Optical and Kinetic Art” opens the doors of the Atkinson Museum on 4th July

“The Dynamic Eye: Beyond Optical and Kinetic Art”, from the Tate Collection, opens on 4th July and is the first exhibition ever to be presented at the Atkinson Museum, located next to WOW, within the Cultural District, in Vila Nova de Gaia. With nearly 100 rarely exhibited works from the Tate Collection, the exhibition revisits the rise of Optical and Kinetic art – two parallel art movements that took force during the 1950s and 1960s – from a global perspective.

Victor Vasarely, Julio le Parc, Lygia Clark, Liliane Lijn, Frank Stella and Jesús Rafael Soto are some of the names represented in an exhibition that brings together artists from across 21 countries. Artists associated with these movements combined simple lines, geometric shapes and vibrant colours to create optical effects or illusions and their pieces trigger complex and disruptive visual sensations activated by the viewer, stimulating a real or perceived movement. Rather than following a strict chronology, this exhibition reframes Op and Kinetic Art as tendencies embraced by artists throughout different times, geographies and cultural contexts.

Among the works included are recent acquisitions to the Tate Collection, such as Light Room (Jena) by Otto Piene, an evocative and sensory piece that literally immerses the spectator in a game of light and shadow, and Cybernetic Sculpture: Square Tops by Wen-Ying Tsai , one of the pioneers of cybernetic and kinetic art. The exhibition will also feature a work by renowned contemporary artist Jim Lambie, whose psychedelic floor installation will occupy the entrance to the Atkinson Museum.

After being exhibited at Museum of Art Pudong (MAP) in Shanghai from September 2022, the exhibition “The Dynamic Eye: Beyond Optical and Kinetic Art”, curated by Valentina Ravaglia, Curator, Displays & International Art at Tate , arrives in Vila Nova de Gaia, where it will remain on display until 30th September.

“It is incredibly exciting to bring such a large and visually striking selection of works from Tate’s Collection to Porto for the first time. I can’t wait for people to experience The Dynamic Eye at Atkinson Museum: the exhibition is a treat for the eyes, and it includes many works that are true hidden gems. For instance, many of the motorised kinetic works are rarely set in motion, and it is always especially thrilling to ‘plug them in’ again and see them animate a new venue.” Valentina Ravaglia, Curator, Displays & International Art, Tate.

“It is an honour for the Cultural District of Vila Nova de Gaia, to receive an exhibition with this depth and dimension, coming directly from Shanghai, and housing more than a hundred remarkable works from the Optical and Kinetic art movements. It will be a unique opportunity to discover the work of over 60 artists from different geographies and get to know the new Atkinson Museum, an address that will put Portugal on the international art map.” Adrian Bridge, CEO of Fladgate Partnership, the group responsible for the Cultural District.

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Destination News EUROPE

New City & Coast Journey from up Norway allows travellers to delve into country’s tourism opportunity

Norway’s leading sustainable luxury travel curator Up Norway invites travelers to fully immerse themselves in local life across the varied landscapes of the country with its new Coastal, Rural and Urban Norway Journey.

Through authentic experiences curated for travelers, this immersive eight-day journey is ideal for families and small groups that enjoy slow travel.

The journey begins along the Golden Road of Trøndelag region, and then on to the remote island community of Veiholmen, before ending the trip in urban Trondheim. All along the way, this new journey allows travelers to engage with local communities and delve into Norway’s nature, food, soft adventure, and more. 

Rural:

Upon arrival to Trondheim, travelers will pick up their own Polestar electric car before heading north to rural Inderøy. This region is full of forest-lined coasts, sparkling fjords, and pristine nature. Along The Golden Road’s loop are activities and attractions centered around food, beer, spirits, and handicrafts. As the region is home to the World Cheese Awards this October, highlights include award winning cheeses and even a pairing with local juices.

Coastal:

Travelers will then make their way from Trondheim via boat to Veiholmen, off Edøy on the island of Smøla. In the small town of Veiholmen, a community of just under 100 people, a local host will escort travelers to their village home for the stay. Later, on a ‘værvandring’ (ramble), an introduction to the community offers insights on the village’s history and its local people through ‘småtta’, or short cuts through private gardens (fences are illegal here!). Dinner at ‘Naustet’, the oldest of Veiholmen’s boathouses, dating back to the 1700s, includes local specialties like pickled herring and saltfish dumplings. Along the coast, travelers will also have the opportunity to row in a traditional Viking-style boat and kayak around the archipelago to spot wildlife such as seabirds, seals, and the giant fishing pens.

Urban:

After diving into both the rural and coastal areas of Norway, travelers’ final leg of the journey explores the small city life of Trondheim. A gastronomic hub, foodies will enjoy dinner at Michelin-starred Speilsalen, where the food creations served represent pieces of art. The city’s iconic colorful wooden buildings, formerly houses but now specialty shops, trendy bars, and restaurants, are best seen via a private tour by floating down the Nidelven river.

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St. Regis Goa Resort appoints Shubham Basrur Food & Beverage Manager

The St. Regis Goa Resort is unwavering in its commitment to crafting exemplary dining experiences for local luminaries and global gourmands. The resort will unveil 3 brand new dining outlets in November 2023, as part of its phased upgradation and brand positioning. As a debut St. Regis Resort in the country, the new outlets will present themselves as true benchmarks in delivering authentic yet sophisticated dining experiences.

Attention to detail and thoughtful service throughout all aspects of Food and Beverage is paramount in delivering an immersive guest experience. The St. Regis Goa Resort has appointed Shubham Basrur to oversee Food & Beverage operations, in step with the above.

Shubham joins the hotel as Food & Beverage Manager from his previous role at Park Hyatt Chennai, home to the famed The Flying Elephant restaurant.

With his signature calm demeanor, sharp leadership edge and operational acumen Shubham will lead the hotel’s dynamic F&B team while also positioning the 3 brand new dining outlets as must visit destinations in Goa.

This is Shubham’s momentous return to Marriott International post his previous assignment at Goa Marriott Resort and Spa. Shubham spent his formative years with Taj, gaining hands on experience at Taj Madikeri and Oberoi in Mumbai before that. Shubham is experienced in curating intimate,   experiential dinners as well as large sit downs and pop-up events.

Care and creativity guide the craftsmanship of every Food & Beverage offering at St. Regis hotels across the globe, and Shubham Basrur is the epitome of this fine blend of both. While leading the team from the front, Shubham demonstrates a nuanced understanding of what inspires people; be it his team members or guests.