February 7 will see the launch in Nové Město na Moravě, which plays host to the ‘s leading biathlon and cross-country skiing event every year, the Biathlon World Championships 2024! The programme kicks off on February 7 with the mixed relays; the last event will take place on Sunday 18 February, with both women and men competing in the mass start. Get your tickets in time and be in on the action.

Love and music can move mountains. With the bicentenary of the birth of world-renowned Czech-born composer Bedřich Smetana, we can look forward to a special Year of Czech Music. A diverse range of cultural shows will be accompanied by international film, rock and folk festivals. We present a selection of the best that the Czech cultural scene has to offer in 2024.

In a recent study conducted by travel operator Planet Cruise, Prague has secured the second position as one of the top destinations worldwide for solo travelers.
The study employed a comprehensive methodology to determine the most suitable places for solo adventurers, considering six key factors: safety ratings, the nightly hotel expenses on average, the availability of group activities, the abundance of attractions, the cost of a single-way public transport ticket, and the overall welcoming atmosphere of the city.

Considering all of these factors, Prague achieved an impressive second-place ranking with a score of 4.6 out of 5, trailing only behind Tokyo, the capital of Japan. Prague’s standout performance was notably in the safety category. 
Prague also achieved a noteworthy score in its friendliness index, securing a commendable 62 out of 100. Notably, only Vienna surpassed it in this category.

Barcelona, renowned for its rich identity as a hub of culinary innovation, technological prowess, and cultural dynamism, has now solidified its standing as the foremost pioneer in sustainable tourism across Europe. The city’s commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in its multifaceted approach, positioning Barcelona as a global leader in eco-focused initiatives.

Over the years, Barcelona has undertaken numerous sustainable initiatives, transforming itself into one of Europe’s most environmentally conscious cities.

Significantly, the city is a proud signatory of the Glasgow Declaration, demonstrating its dedication to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Barcelona also holds the distinguished title of the world’s first Biosphere City, underscoring its unwavering commitment to shaping a sustainable future.

The milestone of becoming the number one city in Europe for sustainable tourism is a testament to Barcelona’s meticulous focus on various aspects of environmental stewardship. Boasting one of Europe’s cleanest and most efficient public transport systems, Barcelona sets the gold standard with a fleet of low or zero-emission vehicles, contributing to reduced carbon footprints. With an impressive array of 283 sustainable tourism options, Barcelona surpasses its European counterparts, leaving Stockholm’s 134 offerings behind. 

Another cornerstone of Barcelona’s sustainability strategy is the emphasis on Kilometre  Zero produce, championing local sourcing in the tourism sector. Hotels and restaurants catering to tourists prioritize locally sourced ingredients, not only minimizing their carbon footprint but also nurturing the growth of the local food industry. 

Barcelona’s success in sustainable tourism is deeply rooted in the steadfast commitment of Catalonia’s government to environmental protection. Recognizing the importance of minimizing tourists’ carbon footprint, the government encourages visitors to explore Catalonia’s vast natural landscapes and ecosystems, fostering an understanding of the critical need to preserve biodiversity. 

As Barcelona continues to lead the way in sustainable tourism, it sets a precedent for cities worldwide, showcasing the transformative power of environmentally conscious initiatives in fostering a more responsible and resilient travel industry.

Photo: Friluftsbyn Höga Kusten/imagebank.sweden.se

April 24 – 25 in 2024, it is time for us to once again welcome you to visit Sweden and participate in Swedish Workshop. In 2024 the workshop will be hosted in and by Södertälje, just south of Stockholm.

Södertälje is a destination with a long history of both innovation, industry, sport and culture. The destination is one part of the metropolitan region of Stockholm and one-part Swedish countryside in Sörmland. It is a destination with an exciting cultural history, dining experiences and places to visit.

Swedish Workshop will offer you great possibilities for efficient and productive business meetings. It is an excellent opportunity to meet representatives from the Swedish tourism industry and get an update on the wide range of products Sweden can offer. You will meet top supplier companies from all over Sweden – including hotels and other accommodations, Swedish destinations, activity companies, carriers and DMCs.

Swedish Workshop is not only a forum for making business, it is also an opportunity to experience Sweden, Swedish culture, nature, history and lifestyle during a few days.

Make sure to SAVE THE DATE 24 – 25 April.

In a heart-warming gesture of kindness, Manchester United players Evie Rabjohn and Irene Guerrero brought joy to Mater Dei Hospital when they visited the Rainbow Ward at the Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre.  The Rainbow Ward is known for its commitment to providing comprehensive care for young patients undergoing oncology and haematology treatment, offering both inpatient and outpatient services.

After being greeted by hospital staff, the players were taken to the Rainbow Ward where they met the nurse in charge of the specialised ward.  The nurse gave them a tour of the ward and explained that there are currently three patients in the ward.

Understanding the challenges these children face in their fight against cancer, the players presented them with a signed Manchester United kit and engaged in light-hearted conversations, a gesture that undoubtedly put a smile on the faces of these young patients and their families who are going through a difficult time.

The visit created a positive atmosphere and left a lasting impression on both the players and the hospitalt community, fostering a sense of unity and hope in the face of health challenges.

The visit at Rainbow Ward formed part of Manchester United Women’s commitments in Malta as part of their winter training camp, held between the 3rd and 8th of January 2024.

The past year has been a period of significant achievement for Samoa as the country has worked tirelessly to overcome the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite the obstacles, Samoa has made great strides in boosting its tourism sector, which is a vital part of the nation’s economy. Thanks to the government’s efforts and the hard work of industry professionals, Samoa is well on its way to recovery.

Samoa Tourism Authority is pleased to announce the opening of the Blue Lagoon Villas in Savaii.

The Blue Lagoon Villas is located in Asaga, Savaii, and is a family-owned operation consisting of six beachfront villas, that offer secure and private accommodation with breathtaking views of the serene white sandy beach and the calm blue waters of Asaga village.

A new lookout has been officially opened on the Le Mafa Pass, situated on the eastern side of Upolu Island Drive. The pass is a scenic inland drive that winds high up into the mountains of Upolu, from the northern coast through to the southern coast, offering many vantage points for spectacular views in all directions, be it over mountains, the ocean, or both.

At the opening ceremony, the Board of Director Chairlady Afioga Tauiliili Alise Stunnenberg and New Zealand High Commissioner to Samoa, His Excellency Dr Trevor Matheson, jointly cut the ribbon before exploring the beautiful view of the area. 

 

Brimming with public art, museums, galleries and plenty of high-end fashion stores, the Miami Design District is the place to go to experience it all. Spend the afternoon taking in art around every corner, filling up your shopping bags with designer goodies or snapping a selfie by a colourful mural in this posh Miami hot spot.