In July 2018, Barents Re, a large, A-rated reinsurer moved from Panama to Cayman. In a release explaining its decision, Barents Re said it had conducted comprehensive research and analysis of a number of potential jurisdictions.

If a company has no European business and is focused on the North American or emerging markets, Cayman clearly makes sense.

We have chosen the Cayman Islands for our domiciled jurisdiction as it offers a strong legislative framework, political stability and a positive long-term credit outlook, Barents Re said.

Cayman Islands was selected as the preferred domicile to strengthen our reputation and credibility with clients, business partners, regulators and rating agencies.

Barents is not the only reinsurer to have decided to move to Cayman. This sentiment is echoed by many that have done business in or with Cayman, with Nassau Re among the other reinsurers to have recently opened an affiliated company on the Island for certain business.

Aon saw reinsurance as a way to grow an existing practice in Cayman. Adrian Lynch, managing director of Aons Cayman office and captive strategy leader for the Americas, says: Since I started running the Cayman office in 2014 I have been looking at how we can strengthen the other businesses we do here, to make them as strong as our healthcare business.

Reinsurance has been a big part of that. We also want more fixed annuity business and more long-term healthcare.

Lynch sees reinsurance as a really attractive business for Aon. The quantum is substantial, the capital requirements are reasonable and commercial, he says. The growth potential in the business is solid.

Caymans reputation has grown over the years, from being principally a healthcare domicile to being an international re/insurance centre, says Martin Cooke, director at Hyperion Risk.

We offer a large community of experienced and diverse service providers. These include an array of large and specialist independent insurance managers, leading offshore law firms and audit practicesnot forgetting a highly regarded regulatory body and legislative system, he says.

Cayman has had a presence in the reinsurance market for more than 40 years. United Insurance Company (UIC), formed in 1975, claims to be the first Cayman reinsurance company, having been established by a group of captive insurance companies.

It initially offered reinsurance support and risk pooling for casualty lines in response to the shortage of traditional reinsurance capacity at that time, says Helen Stephenson, senior vice president of underwriting at UIC.

Over the years, the company expanded to reinsure property, marine and casualty risks for those original shareholders and many other unrelated captive insurance companies.

Since late 2016 UIC has shifted away from captive insurance business towards doing more open market reinsurance, following Quasha Groups becoming its main shareholder and captives selling their interests in the company.

UIC continues to offer direct and reinsurance fronting to captives and risk pooling via Nexus, a subsidiary it formed in 1998 to provide primary casualty risk pooling for captives.

Cayman is seeing growth among category D1 reinsurers, which are fully staffed, self-managed and standalone entities that have staff on the ground in Cayman, and category B3 reinsurers, which use the services of a third party reinsurance manager which serves as the conduit with the Cayman Insurance Monetary Authority (CIMA).

Lynch says he has seen considerable growth among B3 reinsurers in particular, which he sees as an opportunity for Aon.

Clients like having the kind of architecture Aon can offer behind them, it makes risk management and compliance much easier for them, he explains.

Cooke notes a similar trend. We have seen a handful of category D reinsurers setting up in Cayman, although we expect more will be coming, he says.

But there have been numerous class B3 formations, which provide a viable alternative to the commercial market.

As the number of reinsurers on the Island grows, and in recognition of their growing influence, a group of Cayman-domiciled companies are in the process of forming an association to represent their interests, says Timothy Adair, head of UICs Cayman office, with UIC one of the founding members of the group.

The association will meet periodically to discuss issues impacting our jurisdiction and business, and will maintain an open dialogue with CIMA and the Ministry of Finance. United is one of the founding members of the group, says Adair.

Island rivalry

Caymans growing reputation in reinsurance has invited comparisons with another island renowned for its reinsurance business some 2,000 km away.

Cooke says: In the past, reinsurance companies barely looked beyond Bermuda. Today they are giving other jurisdictions more serious consideration.

Solvency II equivalence is a factor, meaning reinsurers in Bermuda have extra compliance requirements. If a company has no European business and is focused on the North American or emerging markets, Cayman clearly makes sense.

There are other reasons for reinsurers to choose Cayman over Bermuda, including its higher rating from Moodys and healthier budget, which operates at a surplus.

Senior executives in regulated entities can obtain a 25-year work permit, and there is no restriction on home ownership or automobiles, which arguably makes it easier to recruit and retain senior people.

In addition, insurance laws in the Cayman Islands have explicit and clear policyholder protections that include the prohibition of third party creditor claims against policyholder assets.

It is similar to Bermudas segregated account legislation, but sources say Bermudas is conditional on certain criteria being met around disclosure and no commingling of assets, while Caymans is absolute.

This means that although Bermuda remains the jurisdiction most synonymous with reinsurance, Cayman is closing the gap between the two.

One source argues that these factors are seeing momentum moving towards Cayman and away from Bermuda.

Captives have helped attract reinsurers to Cayman. As the second largest captive insurance jurisdiction in the world, large re/insurance institutions that want to do business with captives feel compelled to have a presence on the Island.

Stephenson says: UIC has always enjoyed a very close relationship with captives due to its owners and reinsureds being captives.

Insurance managers, auditors, banks and other local service providers are involved with both captives and reinsurers and there is a mutually beneficial working relationship between the sectors.

Simon Owen, managing director at Hyperion Risk, notes that captives are using reinsurance services more than they have in the past.

We see a growing trend of agency captive and diversified captive formations, he says.

This in turn, creates a need for a variety of services, including the sourcing of risk premium, reinsurance capacity and fronting arrangements.

Stephenson adds: The hardening insurance market will increase demand for captives to write additional business, particularly in response to increased retentions and lower limits offered by traditional insurers.

Reinsurers will in turn have an opportunity to offer support to these new or increased captive risks.

Healthy growth

Cayman has long been a centre for healthcare captives, and around 40 percent of the business Aon does in Cayman relates to the healthcare sector. For the Island as a whole, the figure is around 60 percent, Lynch estimates, illustrating the importance of the sector.

Restrictions on the capacity of the medical malpractice sector have created considerable pressure on hospitals in the US, forcing them to increase the amount of risk they retain. This has created more demand for captives in the healthcare sector, in which Cayman specialises, and that in turn has created more demand for reinsurance capacity in Cayman.

Reinsurers may also be benefiting from the increasing diversity of the captives community in Cayman.

Owen says: There has been a proliferation of new types of captives in Cayman. The sector has been dominated by healthcare captives historically, but Cayman captives and other re/insurance vehicles are increasingly likely to be involved in other areas, whether that be property and casualty, specialty lines or life.

Cayman is quickly emerging as a jurisdiction of choice for property and casualty and life and annuity lines, with a significant longevity swap market being established in Cayman.

He adds that there has also been a huge uptick in new reinsurance structures, many that are rated or significantly capitalised, hence creating a new market writing large treaty programs and sizeable transactions.

Many are backed by hedge funds or large private equity companies, with family offices also increasingly involved in the sector.

Increasing interest in reinsurance among hedge funds plays to Caymans strength in the hedge fund industry, with its existing relationships with the funds community encouraging new structures to choose the Island.

Owen says: Caymans strong links with hedge funds and private equity is certainly one of the key reasons for reinsurance on the Island. When hedge funds and private equity funds want to launch a reinsurer or special purpose vehicle they are more likely to do so in a jurisdiction they know well.

The capital markets are looking for diversification opportunities beyond just insurance-linked securities (ILS), and reinsurers are an interesting opportunity with good growth potential.

Smart capital is seeing the benefit of hardening insurance rates and opportunities to participate in non-financial market correlated risks.

Traditionally not associated with reinsurance, the industry has now grown to the point that in July 2018, Derek Stenson, partner at Conyers, wrote a blogpost on the firms website titled Why Cayman is Becoming A Hub For Financial Reinsurance.

In the article, Stenson ascribes this growth principally to regulatory changes. Financial reinsurance (finre) transactions tend to be underwritten with financial management rather than risk transfer as the primary driver, he explains.

Recent global regulatory changes have caused a capital strain on many international pension, life and annuity insurance companies, Stenson wrote.

Finre is now a popular way to access capital relief for these strains and this has stimulated growth in the formation of finre companies, both globally and locally in the Cayman Islands.

Solvency II: no thanks

Perhaps Caymans biggest differentiator has been its decision not to pursue Solvency II equivalence. This decision was taken in recognition of the overwhelming majority of its business coming from the US, where Solvency II does not apply. Cayman has therefore positioned itself as an alternative to a Solvency II jurisdiction.

Lynch says that around 95 to 97 percent of the business done in Cayman originates in the US market, leaving only around 2.5 percent exposed to Solvency II. For Cayman it therefore did not make sense to impose additional regulatory requirements on businesses that were not doing business with Europe.

Bermuda went the other way and took steps to secure equivalence, but this was Caymans niche, says Lynch.

That is one reason why we now have around 60 reinsurers in Cayman, especially B3 and D1 reinsurers.

Caymans reinsurers feel the islands regulatory offering is strict enough, without being Solvency II-equivalent, allowing reinsurers there to better reflect their US clients.

Solvency II is an EU economic model that works very well for EU-facing business, but may not be necessary for US business.

Some of Caymans reinsurance growth therefore includes reinsurers based elsewhere opening affiliate offices to conduct business outside the scope of Solvency II.

Cooke says: Bermuda has the more international focus, especially in being more aligned with Europe. Cayman has traditionally been about captives and funds, with a more North American focus, but even this is changing. Cayman is becoming more global.

Despite turning its back on Europe over Solvency II, Caymans business is increasingly international. In recognition of this, in 2018 the Insurance Managers Association of Cayman changed its name and tagline to Cayman International Insurance: The Better Alternative, in recognition of the insurance communitys increasingly international profile.

This is consistent with changes that have taken place throughout the whole industry.

The industry has changed beyond all recognition in the last 25 years, says Lynch. Risk management in particular is a completely different animal now, it is more sophisticated, more data-driven.

Lynch predicts that the number of reinsurers in Cayman will grow by around 50 percent over the next five years, which will make it even more significant as a global reinsurance hub. That is unequivocally good news for the Island and the reinsurance industry generally, and there is little concern this growth could lead to oversupply.

Reinsurers in Cayman are not only serving the local market, they are focused on international risk, just as those based in Bermuda are, Owen concludes.

There is plenty of room for more reinsurers with different models and strategies.

Aon, Hyperion Risk, UIC, Cayman Islands Monetary Authority, Conyers, Adrian Lynch, Simon Owen, Martin Cooke, Helen Stephenson, Timothy Adair, Derek Stenson

See the article here:

The other island for reinsurance - Captive International

Picture yourself flying through thick clouds. The visibility is zero. You can just about make out the flashing red lights at the end of the wing. In these situations pilots trust their navigation systems and people on the ground and we, in turn, trust them to land us safely so we can continue our lives.

Storm clouds aheadThis is how I feel every time I travel from Denmark to the UK. But the clouds I refer to are metaphorical.

Whilst clarity is in the air in Denmark following the election of a left-wing government in June, and we can more or less anticipate every single move theyre going to make more welfare, higher corporation taxes, reversals of most hardline policies brought in by the previous lot the same cant be said of one of Denmarks oldest allies and biggest trading partners.

Does anyone reading this really truly feel that Boris Johnson is in control of Britains national aeroplane? Writing this just days before the UK General Election, it feels like Britain is sitting aboard one of its famous Lancaster bombers at any moment, it could be blown out of the sky.

No man is an islandThe UK, contrary to popular belief, is not an island. It is, in fact, made up of over 6,000 islands.

Shakespeare summed up its landscape best when John of Gaunt given the usurping nature of his progeny, a David Cameron-like character if you like (more about him later) uttered these lines in Richard II.

This scepterd isle, this earth of majesty, this seat of Mars, this other Eden, demi-paradise, this fortress built by nature for herself. Against infection and the hand of war, this happy breed of men, this little world, this precious stone set in the silver sea.

Remember that the engelsk as the Danes so like to call the Brits are not the entire nation. And I feel that a disconnected Englishman like Johnson is not the man to rebuild our collection of islands after 10 years of neglect and austerity caused in the main by the political party he is the leader of.

Smash and grabIsland retreats are a welcome refuge from the pressures of the world, but they are increasingly being bought up by the insanely rich for their own devices the likes of Anders Holch Povlsen and Richard Branson, for example.

Nothing new in that, but when do the No-entry or the Private Property signs become the norm, and roads and paths once open to the public become no-go areas and start to rankle?

Imagine corporations and billionaires salivating at the thought of becoming even richer as they see a weakened Britain open to plunder. Johnson seems content to let this happen for some bizarre reason. Sadly, despite his own claims, he is no Winston Churchill.

Can Johnson with all his bluster really reunite the UK with whatever natural beauty that can be salvaged, or is absolutely everything in Discount Britain up for grabs? Can anyone with money just turn up and do what they like? We will soon know.

Lessons from JuraThe perils and mediocrity of cheap consumerism were highlighted and written about by George Orwell on a little Hebridean island called Jura, and lets face it: the writing was on the wall during David Camerons reign of austerity.

Curiously, perhaps, but the island of Jura is where Camerons wifes rather rich family have property. You might have heard of them: the Astors? Im sure theyve got plenty stored away to see out the storm. The rest of us will have to just close our eyes and hope as we come in to land in the darkness.

See the article here:

An Actor's Life: This Scepter'd Isle - The Post - The Copenhagen Post - Danish news in english

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico--(BUSINESS WIRE)--OFG Bancorp (NYSE: OFG) announced receipt of final regulatory approval and related licenses from the US Virgin Islands Banking Board that are required for OFGs banking subsidiary, Oriental Bank, to consummate the previously announced acquisition of the US Virgin Islands operations of Scotiabank (NYSE: BNS).

OFG expects to complete the acquisition by December 31, 2019. The company previously announced regulatory approval for the acquisition of the Puerto Rico operations of Scotiabank.

Dr. Ganesh Kumar, Senior Executive Vice President of OFG Bancorp, said: Oriental is eager to start serving Scotiabank customers in the US Virgin Islands. We look forward to providing the highest level of customer engagement with a wide array of products and services. Customer deposits will be covered by applicable FDIC insurance. We intend to grow our business in the US Virgin Islands.

Upon closing and during a transitional period, Oriental will continue using the Scotiabank technology platforms. As a result, USVI customers can interact with the bank, and use branches, as they do currently without any need for change. Over the next few months, USVI customers will be migrated to the Oriental platform, enabling them to access new capabilities.

About OFG Bancorp

Now in its 55th year in business, OFG Bancorp is a diversified financial holding company that operates under U.S. and Puerto Rico banking laws and regulations. Its three principal subsidiaries, Oriental Bank, Oriental Financial Services and Oriental Insurance provide retail and commercial banking, lending and wealth management products, services and technology, primarily in Puerto Rico. Visit us at http://www.ofgbancorp.com.

Forward Looking Statements

The information included in this document contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on managements current expectations and involve certain risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements.

Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to (i) the rate of growth in the economy and employment levels, as well as general business and economic conditions; (ii) changes in interest rates, as well as the magnitude of such changes; (iii) changes to the financial condition of the government of Puerto Rico; (iv) amendments to the fiscal plan approved by the Financial Oversight and Management Board of Puerto Rico; (v) determinations in the court-supervised debt-restructuring process under Title III of PROMESA for the Puerto Rico government and all of its agencies, including some of its public corporations; (vi) the amount of government, private and philanthropic financial assistance for the reconstruction of Puerto Ricos critical infrastructure, which suffered catastrophic damages caused by hurricane Maria; (vii) the pace and magnitude of Puerto Ricos economic recovery; (viii) the potential impact of damages from future hurricanes and natural disasters in Puerto Rico; (ix) the fiscal and monetary policies of the federal government and its agencies; (x) changes in federal bank regulatory and supervisory policies, including required levels of capital; (xi) the relative strength or weakness of the commercial and consumer credit sectors and the real estate market in Puerto Rico; (xii) the performance of the stock and bond markets; (xiii) competition in the financial services industry; and (xiv) possible legislative, tax or regulatory changes.

For a discussion of such factors and certain risks and uncertainties to which OFG is subject, see OFGs annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, as well as its other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Other than to the extent required by applicable law, including the requirements of applicable securities laws, OFG assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect occurrences or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

More here:

OFG Receives Regulatory Approval for Acquisition of Scotiabank Operations in US Virgin Islands - Business Wire

FANS of Netflix's Stranger Things can stay in an Airbnb apartment that's just like the homes featured in the hit TV show.

The 80s-themed apartment even has a name inspired by the show - The Upside Den.

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While Stranger Things is set in the fictional town of Hawkins in Indiana, this property is located in St Louis, Missouri.

It's a basement apartment, just like the one in the Wheeler residence, and can sleep up to four guests, with its own entrance, garden and bathroom.

And with an overnight stay starting from 56 a night, it works out to be just 14 per person.

Inside, everything looks like it could be from the 80s - from the stripey sofa to dated carpets.

There's even a vintage TV set with a VHS player so you can kick back and watch one of over 50 different videos.

It's ideal for family as while there's a main double bed, the other bed is a sofa bed.

Plus, there's a pillow fort that kids will love.

The listing warns that the host has a big dog, but why he might sound loud and scary, he's actually very friendly.

The property is run by Ann, a superhost on the site, meaning she's had lots of experience hosting guests.

And with a rating over 4.95 from over 150 reviews, it seems guests absolutely love it.

One person wrote: "Great location and entertaining space. Really fun vintage decorations and lots of entertainment available including board games and VHS tapes! Bed was very comfortable and warm.

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"Enjoyed complimentary Eggo waffles and a cup of coffee in the morning! Couldnt get much better than that. Thank you so much! Will be back again soon."

Another added: "One of the best AirBnBs i have stayed in. The touches were icing on the already wonderful cake! Amazing hospitality, communication, and thoughtfulness.

"There is an old tube TV with a shelf of VHS tapes and secrets in the freezer 😉 Definitely something we will try to repeat."

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A castle that was featured in The Crown is available on Airbnb on New Year's Eve.

The home sharing site also had a palace in India that hosted Princess Diana as one of its properties.

You can also hire private islands on Airbnb.

Read more:

You can now stay in a Stranger Things-themed Airbnb for 56 a night - The Sun

captionLiving like these celebs doesnt come cheap.sourceAlberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney, Phillip Faraone/Getty Images, Reuters/Mario Anzuoni

Celebrities wear many hats: As public figures, theyre beloved icons at best and at worst theyre embodiments of what happens when financial excess meets colossal privilege.

From dropping $15,000 on palatial porta-potties to importing $30,000 worth of wine a month just to nurse a drinking habit, here are 22 times celebrities reminded us just how absurdly rich they truly are.

Nobody takes a bath quite like the queen of all media, Oprah Winfrey. As she revealed during a conversation with James Corden on The Late Late Show, she sees bathing as a hobby, and takes it very seriously.

I do have a hand-carved tub, she confessed, explaining that it was made out of marble and onyx. You can get a couple in there [] However, it was carved to the shape of my body.

Perhaps it should come as no surprise that itll cost you approximately $300 a day to eat like Gwyneth Paltrow the woman who once said that she is who she is and cant pretend to be somebody who makes $25,000 a year.

If you truly want to emulate Paltrows lifestyle, youll also have to budget in pricey vaginal steams, expensive supplements and beauty dust, and a $33,000-per-year personal trainer.

In an Instagram video, Cardi B told her husband to look in the fridge for his birthday present. When he opened the freezer, it was stacked with cash, which Cardi said added up to $500,000. In the video, Offset tells her that she didnt have to get him money.

I know I dont have to give you the money, but I dont know what to give you, so I suppose I gotta give you something, she said, telling him to buy a new car, clothes, or jewelry.

But thats nothing compared to her transport and wardrobe expenses.

While on a press tour for her upcoming album, Rare, Selena Gomez was seen wearing one outfit that included a $5,950 Miu Miu coat, a $1,050 Paco Rabanne dress, and $690 Prada heels. Later that day, she was spotted in a second outfit, which included a $1,680 Givenchy sweater dress, $1,395 Saint Laurent boots, and $240 Rebecca de Ravenel earrings. In all, her outfits that day cost a whopping $11,005.

In October 2018, Meghan Markle announced she was pregnant. During the following months, she showed off a glamorous and expensive maternity wardrobe. Her most expensive outfit was a black-and-white Oscar de la Renta dress, which cost $13,200. By March the following year, the Duchess had showed off an impressive $632,000 worth of clothing, according to reports.

During an appearance on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon in August 2019, Post Malone was wearing a Rolex watch that costs $96,900. The watch known as the Rainbow Cosmograph Daytona has 36 baguette-cut sapphires and 56 diamonds. John Mayer and Kevin Hart have also been spotted wearing the watch.

He also refuses to fly on any aircraft besides his personal Gulfstream GV which costs him $200,000 a month.

Read more about Johnny Depps extravagant lifestyle here.

Paris Hilton has many labels: shes an heiress, a perfume magnate, and allegedly the inventor of the selfie, but most importantly, shes a pet owner and her dogs live in a two story doggy-mansion replete with air conditioning, heating, designer furniture, and mood lighting.

Gates mistakenly believed that a box of Rice-A-Roni would cost $5 (it costs $1) and that a bag of frozen pizza rolls would cost $22.

Shields allegedly once said: Im so naive about finances. Once when my mother mentioned an amount and realized I didnt understand, she had to explain: Thats like three Mercedes. Then I understood.

In October 2019, billionaire businesswoman Kylie Jenner posted a video of her new Bugatti Chiron on Instagram. When people learned the car costs $3 million, they said she was inappropriately flaunting her wealth, telling her she should use her money to help others who are less fortunate. Jenner who owns several expensive cars took down the video.

As Hayek once said: I always wanted more children, but you have to work very hard to please them all. If you are making pizza, there is one who doesnt like cheese and another who hates tomato. Our chef sometimes looks so downhearted.

The evidence can be found on the rappers Instagram. He also recently forgot that he had Bitcoin: turns out it was worth $8 million.

Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt spent $10 million of their earnings before doomsday.

We made and spent at least $10 million, Pratt told OK! Magazine. The thing is, we heard that the planet was going to end in 2012. We thought, We have got to spend this money before the asteroid hits.'

Along with his 120-person entourage, Bieber demanded that he be supplied with sofas, a ping pong table, two five-star hotels, a massage table, a jacuzzi, a special Indian Yoga Casket containing aromatic essential oils, purple carnations, a convoy of 10 luxury sedans, two Volvo buses, and a Rolls Royce and thats just a small sample of his exhaustive list.

See 32 other ridiculous demands musicians have made.

Victoria Beckham divulged that her skincare products cost around $1,741.52 in an interview with Into the Gloss.

According to Forbes, Nicolas Cage earned $40 million in 2009 alone. He managed to blow through his $150 million fortune by purchasing two castles, four yachts, a pair of albino cobras, private islands, and pilfered dinosaur skulls. He went broke and owed the IRS money.

Nothing but the best for Chelsea Clintons wedding guests the blushing bride allegedly doled out $15,000 for four to six outhouses, which came equipped with flushing porcelain toilets and urinals, stereos, lights, and hot water.

Scott Disick likes to flood his Instagram feed with photos of his many Rolexes and luxury cars but perhaps the most blatantly self-satisfied pic was of his expensive watches and jewelry, captioned: Packing for a camping trip.

Lauren Santo Domingo, a contributing editor at Vogue and co-founder of online fashion retailer Moda Operandi, was chatting with Into the Gloss about her beauty routine when she dropped these two snippets of entitled intel.

For hair not like I wash my own hair, I cant even remember the last time I washed my own hair When I go out at night, I definitely trust the professionals I get a blow-out, I get my makeup done I just cant be bothered to do it myself. I can do my makeup well, but I dont feel as good I just prefer to have it done for me.

The former prime minister of Britain, David Cameron, was shamed when he mistakenly guessed that a value loaf of bread at the supermarket would cost well north of a pound (around $1.40).

When he was informed that a discount loaf of bread costs about $.60, he proclaimed that he doesnt buy discount bread because he prefers to make his own at home, using his Panasonic bread maker (which costs about $200 on average and thats not to mention the ingredients for the bread).

Previously, Cameron made headlines after proudly showing off his $34,908 garden shed on wheels.

See original here:

22 times celebrities reminded the world just how much money they have - Business Insider

Once the festivities are offer, why not shake off the winter blues by heading to one of the new resorts opening in 2020? The best luxury openings from Miami to St Barths are ideal for globetrotters who appreciate the latest in design, but who are also conscious about their travel footprint.

It's a true Miami vibe at the Celino.

Opening in February 2020, TheCelino South Beachin Miami has been carved out of three Art Deco buildings, including the landmark Park Central Hotel. A Small Luxury Hotel, it will have a boutique feel witheclectic custom furniture, pops of colour, and a rooftop pool featuring a peekaboo glass bottom that is visible from the Atrium below. Cheeky.

Picture perfect pool moment.

Park Central Hotel,a favouriteof silver screen stars like Bogart and Hayworth, was allegedly the birthplace of the conga line and guests will find witty nods to this with conga-line kits with how-to guides, drums and cigars in their rooms. The opening is also particularly good timing for those in town for the 54thSuper Bowl, taking place in Miami in February.

Preserving the natural beauty is key at North Island in the Seychelles.

If far-flung and off the beaten track is more your thing, then head tothe exquisiteNorth Island, Seychelles, aLuxury Collection Resort.

The brands first private island destination is found in the heart of the Seychelles, and offers privacy and exclusivity with just 11 villas so theres no chance of overcrowding. Located 30km off the mainland of Mah, it is reached by helicopter or a leisurely hours boat ride.

Be at one with nature at North Island.

Intent to demonstrate that luxury can coexist with conscience the resort has a pioneering conservation programme and a thorough sustainable ethos. A range of dining venues, with daily changing menus, according to what has been harvested on the island, and a wide variety of experiences such as guided excursions and forest trails will no doubt enhance a stay here.

The iconic Eden Rock is open again.

Not new exactly, but one to put on your radar, nonetheless, especially if you are in the mood for the ultimate in luxury holidaying the iconic Eden Rock in St Barths has finally completed its two year renovation after the impact of Hurricane Irma in 2017. Part of the prestigious Oetker Collection, the new look has been presided over by Martin Brudnizki and the hotel now offers new villas and suites, the Remy Salon and Bar, spa and restaurant. Guests can expect a contemporary art collection throughout and a fresh look which calls on the heritage of the French Caribbean.

One of the newly designed Camelot Suite showcases Soane's pretty signature.

Another transformation of an iconic property, also in the Caribbean, has taken place at Cobblers Cove in Barbados. Set in a former plantation, the all-suite hotel has undergone a five-year transformation under the watchful eye of owner Sam de Teran, who has converted the property into one of the chicest places to stay in the Caribbean. The final chapter of its re-design journey, has seen a collaboration with British designer Soane Britain. She has transformed the great entrance hall, drawing room and two signature suites, taking inspiration from the islands flora, architecture and original plantation houses. Think: pretty as a picture.

Have a far-flung adventure in Panama.

Opening this month in Panama, Islas Secas promises to bring the wow factor and more. Aiming to inspire guests through its embracing of a truly unspoilt location across 14 tropical islands it will no doubt lay down a marker for other eco-destinations, due to its green credentials such as being powered by 100% solar-generated energy. The resort sleeps just 18 guests across four casitas (with a further three tented casitas to launch in March 2020) and offers the chance for far-flung adventures from marine safaris to immersive natural experiences, such as witnessing the migrating Humpback Whales. The elemental spa tent, found in wild tropical jungle, meanwhile, is just the place to lose your mind.

Even the dining at Islas Secas embraces the great outdoors.

Finally, one to mark in your diaries for the summer, is the opening of One&Only Mandarina set to put the undeveloped stretch ofcoastline along the Riviera Nayarit in Mexico on the map. Located on a spectacular cliff-side overlooking the Pacific Ocean with dramatic vistas and a lush rainforest setting, One&Only Mandarina will lead the opening of the multi-billion-dollarMandarinadevelopment.

One of the Ocean Cliff Villas at One&Only Mandarina.

Blending chic interiors amid the verdant jungle wilderness, guests can stay in free-standing villas that float above the treetops or perch against the cliffs each with their own private plunge pool. Allowing nature to take centre stage, the hotel has been built to blend with the environment. Botany experts were consulted on the development of the resort to minimise the effect on the existing natural landscape, and careful low-density planning has preserved the land and the historic and ecological importance of the destination.Aiming to be a hub for reconnecting with self, the hotel will offer mindfulness sessions under the stars, meals with jaw-dropping panoramic views or an open-air spa treatment under the tree canopy. Bliss.

Originally posted here:

Six Of The Best: The Ultimate Places In The World To Escape Winter - Forbes

Cheval Blanc St Barths

It takes some time to get to this small, impossibly chic island in the Caribbean. Still, the dramatic arrival via Tradewind Aviation on one of the smallest runways in the world is something you will remember forever.

Once you arrive, you instantly feel at home even if you are not a superyacht billionaire or Herms toting heiress. The locals are friendly, the beaches are stunning, and while it is one of the most expensive islands in the world, it is not intimidating to visit.

Aircraft landing at St-Barthelemy Airport

I have been visiting St Barths for decades, and its seductive charm makes you feel like you are a local. There are no golf courses or high rises with casinos, and even the well-heeled families that visit are polished as they prepare for winter skiing in Courchevel. The people are beautiful, and the island remains authentic with its narrow roads cutting through hills and cliffs surrounding magical quiet coves for snorkeling.

Aerial view of St. Barths

The small French-speaking island, located a short flight from San Juan or St Maarten, is one of the most celebrity-studded retreats in the world and is looking even better than it did prior to the devastating Hurricane in 2017. Development and construction is booming, and you can see new villas popping up everywhere.

Interior beachfront suite at Cheval Blanc

I chose to make the newly revamped Cheval Blanc St Barth my base for a quick escape. It is not only one of the most welcoming resorts on the island, but also a place where you can unwind and not feel the pressure of dressing up or showing off. Positioned directly on Flamands beach, a quarter-mile of ivory sand with its warm, swimmable water and away from the maddening crowds of St Jean, this is a truly luxurious retreat.

Beachfront suite at Cheval Blanc

Cheval Blanc is the luxury hotel brand of LVMH, and its iconic St Barths property offers 61 suites and villas, including 20 new rooms and suites created by designer Jacques Grange, as well as a second beachfront pool. With a new 7,000 sf Villa de France, a five-bedroom stunner with an infinity pool, private spa, fitness room, dining room, and kitchen, it is a game-changer on the island. Add on your personal Majordome (butler), and two private Mini Coopers, and you can really experience the lifestyles of the rich and famous.

Garden villa at Cheval Blanc

All of the suites have large, contemporary style bathrooms, and beds that are so comfortable it is easy to drift off to sleep. The decor is calming with soft pastels and expensive fabrics, making you feel instantly at ease. The Cheval Blanc also leaves pillow gifts like beach bags, scarfs, or candles every night, which is a lovely touch to make you feel special.

Poolside at the Cheval Blanc St Barths

The new additions converted the former Hotel Tawanasite adjacent to Cheval Blanc, and the transformation is glorious. A gorgeous new beach restaurant La Cabane also opened as a casual outdoor dining experience perfect for families or beachgoers. They serve one of the best hamburger and fries I have ever had, naturally accompanied by a bottle of ros. Breakfast offers up the most decadent french toast I have ever tasted, resulting in learning how to make it myself in the kitchen with the charming pastry chef Philippe Tayac.

VIP beach service at its best with waiter George and Martin Lancray, head sommelier.

The hotels gourmet-style La Case Restaurant is a bit more elegant and serves up dishes of the region, fresh fish, meats inspired by celebrity chef Jean Imbert (winner of Top Chef France.) You can also dine on the beach with your feet in the sand while models stroll past your table wearing the latest beach fashion. The lunch crowd here is filled with the most fabulous people on the island and can become the ultimate meeting place for billionaires escaping their superyachts for the day.

The kitchen brigade is run by Chef Antony Clmot (back center) and pastry Chef Philippe Tayac (back ... [+] left)

Guests are provided with the custom service of the Cheval Blancs famed Majordome (butler) that cater to your every need. From shopping excursions to special requests for a romantic beach BBQ dinner. The Maison's Alchemists (concierge) are also on-hand to design family activities and experiences to keep the little ones entertained.

The staff at Cheval Blanc are all young and attractive, dressed impeccably in seersucker pants and crisp cotton shirts. They address you by your name, and their personal connection is what makes you feel like you have been coming for years.

The best butler service in St Barths with Majordome team of Clment, Alexis, Clara Giganti ... [+] (marketing), Thibault and Dorian

Leave it to Cheval Blanc to create a stunning intimate spa located within the Maisons very lush and tropical gardens. Unique Guerlain treatments are available in the spas four treatment rooms as well as an outdoor spa pavilion. My therapist was the amazing Jean-Edmond who worked magic, especially after the long flight.

Garden suite at Cheval Blanc

There are many activities to chose from, including taking a sublime sunset cruise on a 45-foot catamaran accompanied by your personal Majordome. With flowing champagne and appetizers, you can sail past the showstopping superyachts in Gustavia and watch the sunset from the tranquil Colombier beach. Any chance to get out on the open water in St Barths is always the perfect way to experience this beautiful island, and more importantly, away from the often hectic gridlock traffic in town.

Sunset cruise aboard the Cheval Blanc catamaran with Majordome Clment.

I loved waking in the morning with a private hike with the best guide on the island, Elisa White. We hiked to nearby Colombier Bay, spotting enormous turtles along the way, returning for fresh juices and yoga in the Maisons tropical pavilion. The perfect way to ready yourself for a day of sunbathing on the Cheval Blancs glorious beach.

Main entrance to Cheval Blanc

While you may never want to leave the comfort of Cheval Blanc, it is fun to explore the dining options on the island, including my favorites; Bonito, run by the fabulous Nicolas Gicquel in a hillside spot perfectly positioned overlooking Gustavia Harbor. Spend hours after a seriously creative meal dancing on tables to their house DJ, and watching their eclectic bartenders make flaming cocktails; LIsola featuring upscale and very authentic Italian cuisine on a hill in Gustavia Harbor; La Langouste for amazing lobster, located on the same beach as Cheval Blanc; and finally Orega where you can dine under the stars and experience some of the best French-Japanese cuisine in the world. Your butler at Cheval Blanc will arrange the perfect evenings out for you and arrange car service by request.

The amazing crew at Cheval Blanc includes Paul Lannes, (bartender), Yann Vinsot, (f&b ... [+] director),Christelle Hilpron, (General Manager), Manon Carre, (front office manager), Martin Lancray, (sommelier), Clara Giganti, (marketing), and Vianney, (alchemist).

My advice is to visit in the late Spring, early Summer, when the massive holiday crowds are gone, and you can enjoy stunning warm weather. I want to return next time to explore the hidden sides of the island, to relive some part of my past when life was simpler and less rushed, and to enjoy the beauty of the island and its locals that I have come to love.

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The Best Of St. Barths: Inside The Beachfront Cheval Blanc Hotel - Forbes

We are all familiar with the platitudes about trusts: great things if used right, offering potential solutions to asset protection, probate, tax and family issues. The concept of moving the legal ownership of an asset to an unrelated party while still retaining the benefit of it is useful in many contexts.

We are seeing trusts growing increasingly popular in non-traditional regions such as Asia and Latin America, where clients may take some getting used to the idea. Discussing trusts with clients can be dauntinga trust is not a set legal entity and is endlessly bespoke.

The most common but also most misunderstood type of trust is the bare trust, aka nomineeship. These are usually very short documents, simply requiring the trustee to act on the instructions of the beneficial owner. Because they are often headed Declaration of Trust, clients and their advisers can believe they have all the benefits of a substantive trust, but they do not. Because the trustee has no substantive powers or discretions, they often do not avoid probate on the death of the beneficial owners, and are usually see-through with no asset protection. We find that even many lawyers can be unaware of these issues, so it is good to check the document if in doubt.

Substantive (non-bare) trustsif drafted and run responsiblywill however have all the advantages associated with trusts. They can be categorised in the following ways and are in most cases mix and match, so one can have a VISTA purpose trust for example.

Which governing law to use? A popular choice are the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and Cayman Islands. Both British Overseas Territories, they both have thriving trusts industries with lawyers and judges from central London practice. They use mainstream common law and allow interaction with their other famous entitiesBVI companies, Cayman fundsminimising the need for two sets of lawyers on every transaction. Both allow non-resident trustees to act as trustee (subject to some constraints) although if a resident trustee is needed, both are also tax-neutral.

Should the trust be for beneficiaries or purposes or both? Most trusts are for the benefit of the settlors family and perhaps their favourite charities. However, trusts can be purely for purposes (rather than for persons). Some trust jurisdictions such as England allow only charitable purposes but others such as BVI and Cayman allow non charitable purposes, for example to hold the shares of a private trust company or orphan vehicle. A trust settled under Cayman STAR legislation allows a mix of beneficiaries and purposes which are often drafted in the form of a family business plan.

Should the trustee have discretion over distributions? Traditionally, many trusts had fixed interests, for example, The income to my wife for her lifetime. Nowadays, however, the typical new trust will allow full discretion to the trustee, meaning that, for example, no divorcing spouse can argue the beneficiary has a right to assets. A non-binding letter written by the settlor can give the client reassurance that the trustee will in usual circumstances follow their wishes.

Should the trustee have discretion over the investment of the trust fund? Traditionally, Yes, but in these days of corporate trustees maybe No, particularly where the trust holds a treasured, but unprofitable family business, or an unusual asset which a conservative trustee might otherwise feel obliged to sell. Most trust regimes allow some form of bespoke reservation of investment powers back to the settlor but only one, the BVI VISTA trust, has put it in statute. When the trustee is also given discretion over distributions, such trusts do not remove asset protection and are therefore very popular.

Should the trust take effect in lifetime or after death? It comes as a surprise to some clients that trusts can be declared in Wills (essentially a very long Will). Although these obviously require probate to be settled first, they are the ultimate solution for a settlor who wishes to maintain full control in his lifetime, but who does not want his empire split up by his children after his death.

Another element in all of this is the Protector, a bespoke role available in many offshore trust jurisdictions. They can be the clients relative or advisor. They act as a check on the trustee. Their roles range from a single ability to, say, appoint a successor trustees, to wide ranging powers or consents over distributions. Although a client will always prefer giving powers to their protector friend instead of an unknown corporate trustee, courts are wary of over-powerful protectors so one should always ask does the Protector really need this power?

The rest is here:

Why consider a British Virgin Islands or Cayman trust for wealth protection? - Campden FB

YOU can get paid 66k a year in dream job as a tradesman, and there are zero living expenses so you can save all of your money.

The only catch is, you'd have to move to Antarctica.

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About 150 people are needed to fill some of the most adventurous jobs on the planet at Australias research stations on Antarctica.

And it turns out the wages are really, really good on the frozen continent.

The Australian Antarctic Division has put out the call for skilled workers to fill a variety of roles to keep the research station running for the 2020-21 season.

The jobs, which are mainly trades-based, range from four-month summer jobs to 15-month postings over winter.

Rent and board is free for staff called expeditioners and meals are prepared by chefs.

So youll be able to save a lot of money, with workers on Antarctica being paid a special allowance of AUD$60,974 (31,647) per year, on top of their base wage.

For example, a medical practitioner can earn a base salary of up to $199,031 (103,302) a year plus the $60,974 (31,647) annual allowance.

An information technology officer earns a base salary of AUD$74,469 (38,651) plus the same AUD$60,974 (31,647) annual allowance.

Plumbers, electricians and carpenters all get paid a base salary of AUD$66,319 (34,421) with the annual allowance added on top.

The research base is also looking for chefs, logistic supply officers, medical doctors, IT officer, boilermaker welders, mechanics, concreters, and more. All the job listingscan be found here.

The Divisions human resources manager Andrew Groom said: We manage four research stations Casey, Davis and Mawson on the continent and Macquarie Island in the sub-Antarctic.

Were looking for people with the skills to do the job and who will be a good fit for life in a small and isolated community.

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Applicants will first undergo an assessment of their technical skills and experience, and they are then put through one of our selection centres to ensure they will be a good fit for the small Antarctic community.

There could be as many as 100 people at the station on Antarctica during the summer, while in the winter, the population drops to about 20.

The small community relies on one another to keep safe and maintain the station, the Division said.

Expedition mechanic Amy Chetcuti just got back from 14 months on Mawson and Davis research stations.

Amy said: Its a long list when you look at the list of machinery on station and from a trades perspective, you wont find a job like it anywhere else in the world.

I definitely came home with a lot more skills than I went down with, and not just skills within my trade, but in things like hydroponic vegetables and helping out in the kitchen as well as helping other trades.

I was able to help with some of the science activities, which included collecting air quality monitoring samples, conducting a seal survey and sea ice drilling.

There are so many good things about living and working in Antarctica and it really is the experience of a lifetime.

Its about so much more than just a job to see animals in their natural habitat and to become part of that and there is also an amazing sense of community on station, you become one little family.

Applications close on January 23, 2020.

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You can also get a dream jobtesting supercars, yachts and even private islands.

There's even a job for a spa tester for those who want to lounge by the pool and be pampered.

This article was originally published by news.com.au and was reproduced with permission.

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You can get paid 66k a year as a tradesman with ZERO living expenses but youd have to move to the Anta - The Irish Sun

MALE, Maldives: Accor, a world-leading, augmented hospitality group with more than 4,900 hotels and residences across 110 countries, is an expert at introducing travelers to new destinations.

With Raffles, Fairmont, Pullman, Movenpick and Mercure each residing on various atolls, Accor's hotels in the Maldives are welcoming to all guests, whether they seek a more economical mid-level experience or the finest level of luxury.

The Maldives has always seemed a world apart. Fittingly, an otherworldly experience is just what guests find when they reach the ring-shaped coral atolls that comprise the tiny nation of the Maldives. It is a pristine place of untouched natural beauty, quiet solitude and unmatched levels of personal service. The resorts on the Maldives offer spectacular marine adventures, outstanding cuisine and some of the most spiritually resonating spa and wellness experiences in the world.

The islands of the Maldives have a long history of attracting some of the world's most glamorous and famous travelers. Gwyneth & Brad, Prince William & Duchess Kate, Kate Moss, Kate Winslet... seemingly all the Kates that England has to offer, have holidayed in this stunning archipelago dotting the Indian Ocean. The promise of endless vistas and luxurious seclusion has beckoned even the Beckhams to its beaches for a romance-rekindling vacation.

Royalty, film stars and celebrities are blessed with teams of staff and private jets to turn their travel desires into reality. Yet for many people, the Maldives remains a distant dream of a far-flung destination, with a complexity of accommodations and a lack of time and funds to arrange it all.

Venturing into the unknown is less daunting when a familiar face awaits at the other end, said Becky Powell, travel expert and President of Protravel International. A trusted and reliable hotel brand will help you feel comfortable even before you've left home. Communicating with hotel staff in advance, and getting advice and support with planning, bookings and transfers, can help set expectations and give you confidence in the quality of care and service you will receive during your stay.

The Maldives is one of the world's most sought after destinations and our goal is to provide a diverse collection of hotels that allow guests to experience the vibrant and unspoiled marine life of the islands, in the style and manner they feel is most rewarding to them, said Patrick Basset, Accor's Chief Operating Officer, Upper Northeast & Southeast Asia and the Maldives. Whether it's a champagne breakfast on a private island, or a picnic lunch on a dive boat, the unique resorts of Accor ensure that luxuries and comforts are personally meaningful and effortlessly delivered, while honoring and protecting the mystique of this astonishing part of the world.

Of course, the first step is getting there. Guests typically fly into the Velana International Airport, centrally located in the capital city of Male Hotel representatives greet guests here, before escorting them onward to seaplanes, speedboats or domestic flights. Fairmont Sirru Fen Fushi and Movenpick Resort Kuredhivaru are located about an hour to the north; while Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort and Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort are all located to the south, about an hour and half from the Male airport.

For the ultimate in idyllic luxury vacations, guests choose Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort. Since 1887, Raffles hotels have enchanted their well-traveled guests with an elegant oasis style and discreet charm. Guests feel pampered and privileged while regaling in signature Raffles indulgences, such as the Long Bar, with its list of vintages to match those reserved in the British Royal cellars, and the lotus-inspired tranquility of the Raffles Spas.

In May 2019, the Raffles resort opened along the southern tip of the Maldives, in the remote and pristine Gaafu Alifu Atoll. The magnificent retreat includes two private islands, one with 21 villas and residences, a Raffles Spa, two beachfront restaurants and a world-class dive center with an on-site marine biologist. A quick boat ride takes guests across the water to its second island, where 16 vast overwater villas reside, along with Yuzu, a sophisticated restaurant serving Nikkei cuisine; the sunset facing Yapa pool bar; and a wildly romantic fire pit dining experience right on the beach.

Together these two private islands offer two distinct experiences, bound together by Raffles' legendary service, including the gentle and intuitive attentions of the Raffles Butlers, exclusive marine butler service, children's butlers and private chefs.

For an experience of more casual luxury with just as much genuine warmth and personal attention, guests choose Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi. This luxury leisure resort opened in 2018 on the northern tip of the region, on the island of Sirru Fen Fushi. The only resort on the Shaviyani Atoll, the property overlooks one of the largest natural lagoons in the Maldives.

Fairmont is beloved for its unrivalled experiences and the resort in Maldives is no exception. Some 120 sumptuous villas are dotted around the property, with beach villas, water villas and the utterly unique jungle tented villas. These safari-style accommodations create magical nights with the feeling of sleeping under the stars. By day, guests enjoy the al fresco living areas and outdoor rain showers.

Castaway picnics, dolphin cruises, and sunset sailing are just a few of the diversions here. Yet snorkeling around the Coralarium is one of the property's must-do experiences. An art installation and a home to millions of sea creatures, the Coralarium is designed to raise awareness of coral depletion as well as providing a thriving coral regeneration reef. An on-site manta ray cleaning station offers guests a rare and intimate glimpse of one of the world's most majestic marine creatures, as they swim by in a beautiful display of aquatic symbiosis with smaller sea life.

A stay at any Fairmont hotel is truly unforgettable, not merely for the extraordinary experiences, but in large part due to the thoughtful and engaging colleagues who aim to make each and every stay a cherished and memorable experience.

Just south of the Fairmont, on the Noonu Atoll, Movenpick Resort Kuredhivaru also opened in 2018 and is equally committed to sustainable development and preserving the sensitive environment of the region. The resort employs built-in solar panels, in-house water production and plant desalination to minimize its ecological impact on the environment.

The brand stays true to its culinary heritage, even while thousands of miles from its birthplace in Switzerland. Guests delight in the brand's signature food offerings, including the Movenpick Coffee & Wine Lounge, serving Movenpick coffees, chocolates, ice-creams and wines; and the Movenpick Chocolate Hour, a daily pop-up in the lobby offering guests complimentary chocolate treats, presented in new and interesting ways each day.

The littlest guests are perhaps the biggest fans of the resort, especially taking part in the Movenpick Little Birds Club. Fun and energetic activities keep the kids active and smiling. Watersports, games and sailing cruises can be arranged for the whole family, while babysitting services allow everyone to enjoy a bit of personal time.

Meanwhile, back on the southern area of the Gaafu Alifu Atoll, on the opposite side from Raffles, sits the Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort and the Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort.

When the goal is a limitless escape, the most recently opened Pullman Madlives Maamutaa is the destination of choice. Surrounded by a lush tropical forest, 122 villas sprawl among 19 hectares of thick mangroves, lush vegetation and a natural lake. Family villas provide ample room to spread out, while two aqua villas feature an incredible experience of 'sleeping with the fishes' - underwater bedrooms feature windows that display a colorful array of coral, fish, and maybe even a visiting shark.

In keeping with the Pullman philosophy of achieving the perfect balance between peak performance and personal wellbeing, the resort boasts one of the most generous all-inclusive programs in the region. Six unique and cosmopolitan dining options include a sunken pool bar, a tapas and cocktail lounge; and a vegan restaurant set amidst an organic garden. A playful food cart makes the rounds of the property throughout the day, offering refreshing sorbets and light snacks for those who prefer to nosh when the mood strikes.

Pullman guests love to stay active, and the resort thrives on sports and games, with nature walks, treasure hunts, a Fit Trail island jogging track and a complete boot-camp Raaveriya Workout that kicks off with calisthenics followed by an invigorating run on the beach and a refreshing swim in the lagoon.

Water sports are a defining factor at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort. Sailing, kayaking, jet skiing, snorkeling, and a world-class diving center are all designed to help guests feel immersed in the ocean experience and the crystal-clear azure waters that surround them.

The Mercure opened in 2017 as Accor's first Maldives property. While it remains the company's most prudent brand in the region with respect to price point, with 43 over water villas and 25 beach villas, there is still a strong sense of splendor here that is simply synonymous with the hospitality culture of the Maldives.

A memorable getaway in the Maldives is a given, at any price, added Mr. Basset. Wherever you stay, you are surrounded by spectacular beauty. The sand and sea are perfectly unspoiled, the people are kind and hospitable, and the air and oceans are teeming with life. Once you have the opportunity to experience the Maldives, you will wish to visit the destination again and again.

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The Mystery of the Maldives, Unveiled | newkerala.com News #266501 - New Kerala

Two weeks ago, I wrote a column about feeling uneasy after paying my tithing. December is the season of individual tithing settlements for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and what I find unsettling is that the church, unlike many other religious denominations and charities, never explains what it is doing with my donations. I would very much like to know not just for my own benefit, but because accountability is as important for institutions as it is for individuals. Yet the church has not released a substantive financial statement in 60 years:

I think the church stopped making disclosures in 1959 because it was on the brink of financial disaster as its final report indicates, it outspent its income by $8 million that year. I suspect that the nondisclosure policy continues, however, not because the church is poor or indebted, but because it has grown wealthy enough that exposing the extent of its holdings could cause embarrassment and prompt unwanted questions.

Would knowing the extent of the churchs abundance diminish Latter-day Saints ongoing generosity?

On Monday, a whistleblower who used to help manage the churchs investment portfolio released a series of documents alleging that the church has mismanaged more than $100 billion of charitable donations by channeling them into for-profit investments on which it has failed to pay taxes. You can read the initial coverage from The Washington Post here or Religion Unplugged here, with more details. Another person, who is apparently the whistleblowers brother, seems to have written the report that is publicly available for download here.

That report alleges that the church receives an excess of $1 billion a year that it doesnt need for its own operating expenses, and that since the 1990s that money has been funneled into a church-owned investment company called Ensign Peak Advisors (EPA). EPA operates as a nonprofit arm of the church but, the report claims, has not used its money as a nonprofit should. That annual tithing surplus, plus the impressive returns on the churchs investments of previous years tithing surpluses, has grown to over $100 billion, according to the report. (Thats not including the churchs holdings in land, buildings, other investments, etc.)

The report further asserts that EPA has made only two disbursements in its history, and neither was for a charitable purpose; one was to prop up a failing insurance company owned by the church, and the other was to support the City Creek Center mall in downtown Salt Lake City.

Ive gone through the 74-page report, including the attached documentation. Im actually grateful that these charges have come to light, as Ill address at the end, but to my mind this opening salvo seems far from a slam-dunk.

The main problem is that the author of the report has a clear agenda, which damages the reports overall credibility. For example, its not helpful (or financially relevant) to compare the churchs belief in the Second Coming of Christ to Scientologys teaching about the intergalactic alien Xenu. This seems to have been done solely for the purpose of ridiculing both religions. Neither is it helpful to weaponize rhetorical questions to over-prove a point:

But you should know how much you gave their EPA slush fund since the COP created it in September 1997: at least $18.4 billion. What did they do with this tax break? Nada, said a whistleblower. What have they done with the rest of Mormon, Inc.s leftovers since 1997? Zilch. And how big are those leftovers now? $124 billion.

Its entirely possible that these numbers are correct; I have no way of knowing, which is the main problem with a church that refuses to disclose its finances. But convincing readers that the numbers are correct would have been better accomplished by simply presenting the facts without such relentlessly strident commentary.

Sometimes the report wants to have things both ways. On the one hand, it accuses church employees of lying openly about its finances, and on the other, it asserts that very few people only the most senior apostles ever know the full extent of the institutions holdings. With that in mind, isnt it possible that various church employees who have made public statements about the limitations of the churchs finances made those declarations in good faith because they didnt have the whole picture? The whistleblower says the church didnt want any one person to have so much information that he or she would prove to be a liability, but in almost the same breath accuses Gerald Causs, who, as presiding bishop, oversees the faiths vast real estate, investment and financial operations but is not an apostle, of being shifty and a master of carefully worded statements that obscure the truth.

For that matter, isnt it also possible that these documents that appear to show no charitable distributions from EPA do not represent a full accounting of all of EPAs outflow? I think its important that we keep an open mind here, and assume that there is another side to the story . . . if the church is willing to come clean with actual documents.

Thats a big if, given that the churchs response to journalists previous estimates about its financial holdings has been to repeatedly trot out the phrase grossly exaggerated. If this report and its accompanying internal documents are to be believed, those journalists were actually underestimating the churchs finances, so if the church is going to defend itself, simply releasing another grossly exaggerated dismissal is not going to cut it.

In other words, show us the money.

Whats weirdly karmic about this whole debacle is that it could have been avoided if the church had simply continued to exercise transparency about its income and expenditures, as it did in the early and mid-20th century. Instead, its commitment to secrecy, presumably to avoid criticism, has opened the door to further criticism.

The optimal way for the church to deal with this is to fight fire with fire, releasing all of its own internal financial documents. Other than the shocking size of its portfolio, its possible that those revelations will turn out to be a yawnfest.

Its easy for me to believe that the church is guilty of hoarding its wealth; despite its privileged status, it still actively perceives itself as a victim of religious persecution and learned early on to trust only its own. As well, its facing a future in which its First World growth has flatlined or even (in the case of Europe) entered into negative territory, while new converts are still joining in, for example, West Africa. Perhaps its utterly excessive stockpile has less to do with the theological possibility of Jesus return than it does with the prosaic current reality that the church is only growing in areas of the global south, where its members cannot self-sustain their buildings and programs.

Its harder for me to believe that a church that is, as a rule, so meticulous has been intentionally defrauding its members and the federal government. Its possible, of course, but . . . really? Even these internal documents show an institution that has stayed conservative with a 60/40 investment portfolio, so its not a question that the church is engaging in wild speculation with money contributed by the faithful. Neither does it seem to be a question of top leaders becoming personally rich from the churchs wealth; what greed and hoarding propensities leaders have demonstrated seem to have enriched the church as an institution, not lined their own pockets. So the reports references to the Mormon gigachurch in conjunction with megachurches personal jets and private islands seem unwarranted.

The ball is in the churchs court now. Its mandate is to not only demonstrate to the IRS that it has been in compliance with the law, but also to reassure believers that it has adhered to the fourfold mission outlined in one of its training slides for new employees which includes caring for the poor and needy.

(The views expressed in this opinion piece do not necessarily reflect those of Religion News Service.)

Read more:

Jana Riess: Whistleblower alleges the LDS Church is hiding wealth from the IRS, but is the evidence persuasive? - Salt Lake Tribune

World/16 December 2019, 1:58pm/MARIO LEDWITH

A victim of Jeffrey Epstein who said Prince Andrew was used as bait to lure her to his private island has written an extraordinary letter pleading for the royal to help in the US investigation.

Sent by Gloria Allred, who represents the woman, known only as "Jane Doe 15", it says: "Your prestige and reputation were directly touted in his attempts to engage in further harm".

It is alleged Epsteins staff tried to lure the woman to the paedophile financiers private island of Little St James in the US Virgin Islands with the promise of meeting Andrew.

The intervention is likely to pile further pressure on the Duke of York to speak to US investigators in the fallout from his disastrous BBC interview last month.

In the letter, Andrew was told how a "central element" of Epsteins predatory behaviour was to present himself as having connections to the worlds most powerful people.

It reads: "We write now to seek your co-operation to bring out the truth about his predatory behaviour. You are no doubt aware by now that Mr Epstein was a skilled manipulator and abuser of minor girls".

Jane Doe 15 has described how Epstein raped her, taking her virginity, at his New Mexico ranch when she was aged 15.

The victim, now 31, first met the businessman in 2004 after being approached by one of Epsteins assistants when visiting New York with her school drama club.

After being lured to his ranch two weeks later, she said Epstein "took my sexual innocence in front of a wall of framed photographs of him shaking hands and smiling with celebrities and political leaders during the trip to New Mexico.

Epsteins staff then allegedly tried to push her into travelling to his Caribbean island. The letter says: "[They said] Mr Epstein was close to you, that you would be among the guests and that she would have an opportunity to meet you". The woman has said she declined the invitation "out of fear".

Mrs Allred, who is representing five of Epsteins victims, told The Sunday Times: "He [Andrew] shouldnt be trying to decide how what he knows helps or hurts anybody; he should just provide the facts. The prince needs to speak without condition, without delay".

She called on Andrew to provide sworn testimony and a sworn deposition in "the interest of serving justice and in helping the victims of Mr Epstein to find peace".

The prince has previously said he is "willing to help any appropriate law enforcement agency with their investigations if required".

Jane Doe 15, who has filed a complaint at a US court, was among victims who testified at the end of Epsteins criminal case in August. Epstein killed himself in jail later that month.

It comes as Andrews sex accuser Virginia Roberts said police reneged on a promise to search the west London home of Epsteins ex-girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, where she claims to have had sex with Andrew at the age of 17.

She said on Twitter yesterday: Whos protecting who?

Meanwhile, Lisa Bloom, a lawyer representing separate Epstein victims, is reportedly preparing to fly two witnesses to the US who claim they saw Andrew with Miss Roberts in Tramp nightclub.

Andrew has vehemently denied the claims. Buckingham Palace declined to comment.

The Metropolitan Police has said there is not enough evidence to proceed with an investigation.

Excerpt from:

Epstein lured victim using Prince Andrew 'as bait', letter reveals - IOL

I was really impressed by the creativity of all the designs. However there was one clear winner for me..." Philip Parkinson, Founder and Owner of Philip Martyn Design

MIAMI (PRWEB) December 18, 2019

Andres Ortiz topped the list for Best Billiard Table Design with his piece Unapologetically Horizontal in this year's International Billiard Design Competition. When asked to describe his work he replied, Through the use of the horizontal axis this pool table aims to reimagine the way an object occupies space. Opposing itself to the well adopted vertical hierarchy that most pool tables employ, it uses horizontal planes to glide through space in an unimposing manner, while visually engaging with the user. The object becomes a manifestation of a repeating horizon line.

Created by Billiards By Brandt, this years International Billiard Design Competition was comprised of industry experts including past principal of Society Billiards and luxury real estate agent Shelly Abramowitz, VP of City National Bank and member of the Haitian-American Chamber of Commerce Natacha Alexandre, owner of Golden West Billiards Rob Brostoski, Sr. VP of Parker International Linda Hein, Principal of J.D. Ireland Interior Joe Ireland, Executive Team Manager of Brooklyn Boulders Paul Kabacinski, VP of JKL Design Ashley Langer, Founder and Owner of Philip Martyn Design Philip Parkinson and Studio Manager for Hospitality IDDI Ashley Squires.

Without full knowledge of the technology available within the billiard Industry, it is always a pleasure to see how designers push the boundaries of standard materials to provide a bespoke statement piece not to be found in any catalog or interior space to date. This in turn forces a continuous evolution and challenge to the construction technology of a time old tradition that is the game of billiards, Ashley Squires- Studio Manager for Hospitality IDDI.

The 2019 International Billiard Design Competition evolved through a need to recognize and celebrate creativity, innovation and those pushing the bounds of creative excellence in all forms of billiard table design. Dan Brandt is dedicated to furthering creative form in the billiards industry and administers this distinguished competition with the goal of raising awareness of individuals who have the creative talent to go beyond the ordinary.

I was really impressed by the creativity of all the designs. However there was one clear winner for me - I was especially impressed by the originality, the design and the aesthetic quality of the winning submission. It really took on board the competition brief and came up with an innovative, stylish and exciting billiard table! I cant wait to see the finished product, said Philip Parkinson- Founder and Owner of Philip Martyn Design.

About Billiards By Brandt: Similar to commissioning artists for their unique abilities, Billiards by Brandt clients can commission Dan for one-of-a-kind pool tables made precisely to their liking and desired specifications. Billiard tables are not only art, but also can showcase art, says Dan, and no better illustration of this is the table he produced to exhibit internationally acclaimed artist Walter Gaudneks painting St. Denis and Goyas Missing Skull as billiard cloth. Hes also the expert go-to whenever there is a special request. Just ask Linda Hein, SVP of The Parker Company. Whether it is a lacquer white billiard /dining table with matching shuffleboard for a Miami luxury condo, or leisure gaming equipment for use on private islands, she contacted Dan who made it happen on time, and also oversaw the installation.Billiards by Brandt produces all items cradle to grave under Dans direction and supervision, and ensures clients an efficient process by having him as the point of contact in all transactions. Dan helps guide architects, designers, developers and even inspired homeowners towards the table they envision. And once production begins, an open invitation is extended for all clients to tour the workshop and see their tables being made.

http://www.BilliardsByBrandt.com

Media Contact: Michelle Menendez mm@michelleacreativeagency.com

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Winner Announced In Billiard By Brandt's 2019 International Billiard Design Competition - PR Web

Exploring the Greek island of Santorini, which is one of the 27 best places to go in 2020.

Where are you headed in 2020? Given that were on the verge of not just a new year but a new decade, this is the time to go bigand travel farin 2020. To help fuel your wanderlust, we tapped into a handful of travel experts and influencers tofind out the places that they have on their radars for 2020. Their choices for where to go in 2020 range from a pair of dreamy Greek Islands to an African country redefining adventure travel to a Japanese mountain town where old meets new. Compare these to the best destinations that the experts picked for 2019 (how many did you check off your bucket list?). I also opened my own little black book to give a sneak peek at what Im most excited about around the world for 2020. You're definitely going to want to put thesespots on your travel wish list, too.

For those of you who want to stay closer to home, check out last years U.S. roundup,"Where To Go Next: 14 Best Places To Travel In The US In 2019," and keep an eye on this column. This week, I will be publishing the best places to go in the U.S. in 2020.

And heres the thing: No matter whether you decide to travel, whether you go near or far, the most important thing is to get out there and explore and discover. As the writer Hans Christian Andersen once said, To travel is to live.

Lexie Alfordthe youngest person to travel to every countryin Egypt.

Where: Egypt

Chosen By: At the age of21, LexieAlfordbecame the youngest person to travel to every country on earth and broke theGuinness World Record. Follow her on Instagram (@LexieLimitless) and read more about her accomplishment here.

Why: After traveling to every country in the world, Egypt is one of the countries that I would consider one of the most underrated. Egypt harbors such immense, well-preserved history and a unique culture that can only be discovered in this forgotten corner of North Africa. The country is finally beginning to receive the recognition it deserves after being named the worlds fastest-growing travel destination by the World Tourism Organization. In 2020, the Grand Egyptian Museumthe largest archaeological museum in the worldwill open to the public and the exhibits will include thousands of ancient Egyptian artifacts that have never been seen before. The best way to discover everything this astonishing country has to offer is by taking a Nile River cruise with Abercrombie & Kent.

Let's raise a glass to amazing travels in 2020. PIctured here: Greece, which experts say should be ... [+] on your list for 2020.

Where: The Greek Islands

Chosen by: Becca Ingle is an avid family travel blogger. She is the founder ofBeccaIngle.com, where you can read all her travel guides. Follow her on Instagram (@Beccaingle) to see the behind the scenes of each trip.

Why: The Greek Islands are the latest hot spot for avid travelers.Take a flight directly into Santorini and be whisked into the magical white and blue architecture of Oia.Make sure to book one of the Blue Dome Cavehouse Rentals overlooking the water to see amazing sunset views.For 2020, the Santorini Council has made plans for new roads and parking areas to make the town more accessible.Several new hotels are opening, including Eco Hotels and Oias Saint Santorini.Rent ATVs from Vazeos for the day to explore the entire island by buggy or plan a day of wine tasting by stopping by the beautiful Santos Winery, Gavalas Winery and Venesantos winery. Walk the narrow streets at night and have a private dining experience at Canavas Oia Suites Panaroma Balconybut be sure to book this at least six months in advance. Plan a day of yachting around the Aegean sea with Explorer 1 and stop at the famous red beach in Akrotiri and have a sunset dinner cooked on board.

To continue exploring the Greek Islands, book a ticket with Seajets to take a two-hour ferry ride over to Mykonos Islands.Seajets has added 17 ships to its fleet for 2020 and is the largest high-speed fleet of the Aegean.Once in Mykonos, stay in a beautiful rental, The Villa Astra, within walking distance to Mykonos town.You can find several other rental options through Kid & Coe, which makes it much easier to find accommodations with family amenities. If you want to stay in one of the newest hotels developed this year by Myconian Collection Resort, book a room at its new Panoptis Escape.Easily find available ATVs and four-wheelers for rent on any nearby street to explore the island and hop around to the popular beach clubs.Reserve beach chairs at Nammos in the morning, then scoot over to Scorpios for dinner and a sunset ritual experience.Mykonos plans to add a few more restaurants overlooking the water in the main area next year, but dont miss the infamous cobbled-street restaurant, Kastroswhich youve surely seen all over social media.

Singitas new Kwitonda Lodge, set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Where:Rwanda

Chosen by:Natalie DiScala is a writer and editor atJohnnyJet.com, covering travel trends, products and family travel.

Why: If youre looking for a destination that will take you out of your comfort zone and into the heart of nature, consider Rwanda. Gorilla tourism is alive and well in Rwanda and remains the biggest draw for visitors to the region. As Rwanda becomes increasingly more popular, it has also become known as a luxury safari destination, much like Kenya and Tanzania, its eastern neighbors. Travelers to Rwanda will likely fly into the countrys capital Kigali, a vibrant and exciting city. From there, journey to one (or more!) of the many luxury lodges that await to please and pamper in between gorilla treks. Travel northeast from Kigali to Wilderness Safaris newMagashilodge in Akagera National Park for game drives to see the Big Five. Singitas newKwitonda Lodgeis set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park and One & Onlys much-anticipatedGorillas Nestlodge, located in a lush, fragrant eucalyptus forest, just opened in the region. One & OnlysNyungwe Houserounds out the safari experiencethere, guides take guests to the protected jungle in surrounding Nyungwe National Park to spy troops of colobus monkeys and chimpanzees.Micato Safariscan string all of these experiences together (the companys knowledge of the region and attention to detail make it second to none). But even more important than that is the fact that Micato educates an African child all the way through secondary school for every safari it sells through itsOne for Onecommitment.

Beachside in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the first World Capital of Architecture for 2020.

Where: Brazil

Chosen by: Katie Jackson is a Montana-based travel writer whose work has been published byTravel & Leisure, USA TODAY, Fox NewsandThe Sunday Times. Every trip she takes is an investment, and she likes to pay the rewards forward by helping other travelers. You can follow her adventures (and misadventures) onInstagram.

Why: This time last year Americans needed a visa to visit Brazil. Now, since the governmentlifted its visa requirements in June, all we need is a valid passport and our thongs (flip flops and/or bathing suits). Not only is it easier than ever to visit Brazils 2,000+ beaches, but its also more affordable. The Brazilian real reached an all-time high in November, so the U.S. dollar is going further than ever. If the idea of exploring South Americas largest countryand the worlds most biologically diverseis intimidating, consider going withNaya Traveler. The travel outfitter works with the best local guides everywhere, from the Amazon rainforest to Rio de Janeiro. Speaking of Rio, UNESCO selected the Marvelous City as the firstWorld Capital of Architecture for 2020. Expect Rio to be celebrating with special events all year. And thats in addition to hosting the worlds largest party, Carnival, and in November, the Brazilian Grand Prix. To catch all of the city center action and still be within walking distance of Copacabana Beach, stay at theJW Marriott Hotel Rio de Janeiro. Its rooftop pool boasts spectacular views of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Arches and temple in Gadi Sagar lake at sunset sky in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India

Where: Jaisalmer, India

Chosen By: Teddy Minford spent her childhood in Europe before moving to Sun Valley, Idaho. She now lives in New York, where shes always planning her next trip. When shes not writing and editing for Fodors, you can usually find her reading a book.

Why: A remote desert location, fairytale architecture and incredible hotels make Jaisalmer the destination of your wildest dreamsthats why it earned a top spot on Fodors 2020 Go List. Known as Indias Golden City, Jaisalmer sits on the outskirts of the vast Thar Desert, which stretches all the way to Pakistan. The ancient city is anchored by a massive sandstone fort with maze-like alleys and markets that will thrill curious travelers in search of eclectic one-of-a-kind souvenirs, while adventurers will want to plan a safari in the Sam Sand Dunes to experience the epic scenery of this ethereal landscape. Nachana Haveli, a Heritage Hotel, lets travelers live inside their own version of Jaisalmers famous Patwon-ki Haveli(a cluster of interconnected and elaborately decorated historical mansions) while Sujan The Serai takes glamping to another level with 5-star tented suites situated in a 100-acre private oasis outside of the city.

Colorful contrasts in Cape Townthe Bo Kaap Malay quarter with Table Mountain in the background.

Where: Cape Town, South Africa

Chosen by: Olivia Balsinger has utilized her global perspective to manifest a career as a travel expert. She ditched NYC corporate life for adventure (and lust over a Danish boy!) in Copenhagen and hasnt looked back. Olivia has visited 103 countries and was honored as InterContinental Groups Latin America Journalist of the Year. She is the co-host of the upcoming immersive travel seriesJourneys Beyondand is the co-producer ofFly Brother, coming to PBS in 2020. Follow her adventures onInstagram.

Why: Most pilgrimages to the Rainbow Nation begin inCape Town, a progressive, colorful mlange of culture, nature, and music, gracing the cusp of Africa. The past is present in the future at renownedRobben Island, where former president Nelson Mandela was held prisoner for 27 years. Weekends are reserved for multi-sensory experiences feasting on global and traditional fare atThe Old Biscuit Mill. Cape Towns downtown is concentrated in the City Bowl neighborhood, with venues such as Green Market Square, housing an eclectic African souvenir market. There is also the illustrious Long Street, lined with restaurants, bars, cafes, shops and quirky yet luxurious accommodations such asThe Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel with seven vintage trailers parked on the roof. Cape Town is also home to some of the worlds most pristine beaches, phenomenal for people watching, or catching a lekker (South African lingo for cool) wave. The newly renovatedCape View Cliftonhotel has iconic views from private balconies of theTwelve Apostles MountainRange, silhouetting the temperamental Atlantic below.

Traveling as a family to Cape Town is even easier come 2020: Minors visiting the destination will no longer need to provide Unabridged Birth Certificates or consent letters when accompanied by parents and carrying valid passports. This makes it easier to joll (party) in this vibrant city crowned by theemblematic Table Mountain.

Magical Lake Bled in Slovenia, one of the hottest places to go in 2020.

Where: Slovenia

Chosen by: Stefanie Michaels, the CEO ofAdventureGirl.com, is a TV personality, having appeared on every major network in the U.S. and with features in People and Time Magazines, to name a few. A Vanity Fair feature named Michaels America's Tweetheart for being the first travel brand to reach over 1 million followers. Find her at @adventuregirl on all social platforms.

Why: Slovenia may be in the news over its border dispute with Croatia, but its a perfect place to explore. This beautiful former part of Yugoslavia is a country mixed with adventures from the sea to a mountainous part of the country dotted with old world towns. Plus, its not on the euro, making it an affordable destination option for 2020.

The Shinkyo bridge in Nikko, Japanone of the best places to visit in 2020.

Where: Nikko, Japan

Chosen by: Chicago-based freelance writer Elaine Glusac contributes regularly to The New York Times, National Geographic Traveler, AFAR and other publications. She was recently named the 2019 Travel Writer of the Year by the Society of American Travel Writers. Follow her on Instagram @eglusac.

Why: Japan will get a lot of attention in 2020 because of the Olympic Games in Tokyo, which will be spectacular. Theres so much to do in Tokyo, but it will get very crowded during the Games. Fortunately, Japan offers so much variety outside its capital. An easy escape is Nikko, less than two hours north by train.

In the Nikko area, you get a broad swath of history as well as a beautiful natural setting. The town and nearby Lake Chuzenji are part of a national park that is well preserved, with scores of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Keep your eye peeled while driving up to the lake from the downtown area for monkeys on the side of the road and beautiful foliage. As one of the earliest places where Buddhism was established, there are temples aplenty to visit. Youll also want to go for a hike around the lake and relax in one of the hot springs. Luxury hotel Nikko Fufu will open in 2020, and each room will come with its own hot spring. The atmospheric Nikko Kanaya Hotel, which dates back to 1893, has a wonderfully small, intimate bar with dozens of whiskeys. And opening in May 2020, The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko, set along the stunning Lake Chuzenji, will be a prime spot to hike over to Kegon Falls, a spectacular and thundering waterfall that everyone should see. Nikko is the perfect place to get away from the mayhem of Tokyo during the 2020 Summer Games and commune with the Japanese love of nature and some of the ancient spirituality practices.

In British Columbia, Canada, overlooking Okanagan Lake in the Okanagan Valleyone of the top places ... [+] to go in 2020.

Where: British Columbia, Canada

Chosen by: Jillian Dara is a freelance travel journalist with a focus on food, wine and culture. Her work has appeared in international and national outlets including, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Michelin Guide, DuJour and Hemispheres. Dara credits her passion for travel to her upbringing on the island of Bermuda, which inspired her to work and live in London, Santiago, Boston and New York City.

Why: Descending over cerulean lakes and endless pine forests, Kelowna welcomes you to a lesser known landscape of British Columbiaone where neatly stacked vineyards line the mountainsides that plunge into the glacially-fed basin below. This is the Okanagan Valley, informally referred to as Canadas wine country. Thirty years ago, the first vine was planted which put the Okanagan Valley on the map, and perhaps thats what makes this corner of Canada so special; its wines dont have hundreds of years of history, but rather the region is in the midst of writing its own history.

A trip to the Valley wouldnt be complete without familiarizing oneself with the wineries of Von Mandl Family Estate. With Mission Hill Winery as one of the oldest wineries in the region, proprietor Anthony Von Mandl leads by example with his commitment to organic farming and innovative winemaking techniques that allow for a grapes natural characteristics to shine (like the 100 percent gravity-fed Martins Lane Winery). The region also embraces the style of farm-to-table dining, relying on local suppliers for everything from charcuterie and cheese boards to fresh fish dishes. In downtown Kelowna, restaurants like Waterfront, Oak + Cru and RauDZ showcase regional and seasonal ingredients alongside local wines, while Micro Bar & Bites offers an alternative menu for craft cocktails and international tapas.

Outside of city limits, many wineries offer their own spin on Pacific Northwest cuisine, like Terrafina restaurant at Hesters Creek as well as Von Mandls seasonal restaurant Terrace at Mission Hill Estate and his latest opening of Home Block, a year-round restaurant at CedarCreek Estate winery. Stay at Delta Hotels or the Royal Kelowna and youll be at the center of the regions best food and wine offerings.

Lexie Alfordthe youngest person to travel to every countryin Abu Dhabi.

Where: United Arab Emirates

Chosen By: At the age of21, LexieAlfordbecame the youngest person to travel to every country on earth and broke theGuinness World Record. Follow her on Instagram (@LexieLimitless) and read more about her accomplishment here.

Why: The United Arab Emirates is the destination where luxury meets the future. Dubai is home to not only the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, but also the largest artificial islands in the world, the Palm Islands. The nearby capital city, Abu Dhabi, welcomes visitors to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful mosques ever created. This year will be a particularly special time to visit the UAE since the Expo 2020 will be held between the two cities, making it the first World Expo held in the Middle East. The theme of the event is Connecting Minds, Creating the Future and over 130 countries will be participating in the pavilions and events. Event organizers predict that anywhere from 25 to 100 million travelers from around the world will be visiting from October 20, 2020 and April 10, 2021, so be sure to mark it on your calendar.

The rooftop lounge at Mama Shelter in Lille, France.

Where: Lille, France

Chosen by: Sarah Souliis a freelance journalist based in Athens, Greece. Her travel writing has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, Roads & Kingdoms, and more. She is the author ofMoon Guides: Athens and the Greek Islands. Follow her onInstagramandTwitter.

Why: Cold, gray, and full of potatoes, goes the stereotype of Lille. How unfair! This northern French city is actually one of the most charming in the country, with a brimmingjoie de vivreand a booming arts scene. The most in-the-know crowd is already aware of Lilles growing reputation; it was recently crowned the 2020 World Capital of Design. Check into the newly opened, boho-chicMama Shelter Lillethe ideal base for exploring Lille, and home to the citys best brunch. Gorgeous museums like La Piscine and LaM will give you a good artistic overview of the city, while new restaurants (such as Coke and Big Mama) and shops will keep you full and happy. Expect plenty of shows, performances, workshops, art installations, and more, to coincide with Lilles new design crown.

Les Ilets de la Plage on St. Bart's.

Where: St. Barts

Chosen By: Marie Speed is the group editor of JES Publications, includingBoca Raton, Delray Beach, Worth Avenue and Mizners Dream. She also oversees editorial operations of the companys Salt Lake City magazines.

Why: St.Bartshas long had the reputation of an exclusive luxury playground for the high-end European tourists; the wintertime province of rock stars and mega moguls; a place of designer shops, aquamarine waters, quaint villages and five-star hotelsall in the context of an understated and elegant island a few hours plane ride from the US to the French West Indies.The islandwith mountains rising from the sealooks almost Polynesian from the air; and its main city, Gustavia, on its west coast, overlooks a sparkling harbor full of sailboats and super yachts. There are other towns dotting the island, and at only nine square miles, you can see them all in a couple of hours by car.

Two years after a devastating hurricane caused $1.4 billion in losses on the island, St. Barts is on the rebound, with hotels like Eden Rock, Le Sereno St. Barth, Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France and the Hotel Barrire Le Carl Gustafrecently reopened and more (like Le Guanahani) set for 2020. On a recent visit, I opted for the more understated Les lets de la Plage, a longtime family-owned hotel (now managed by an all-woman team) directly on St. Jean Bay. The Dutch Colonial charm of this cottage colony is tempered by contemporary amenities; each beach villa has a terrace overlooking the bay, and a box of fresh pastries is delivered to your door every morning. The advantage of this island spot for me was that it felt like it belonged here; there was a comfortable (albeit luxurious) authenticity in its simplicity.

And thats the other thing about St.Bartseven a modest beachfront caf has fine wine and exquisite entrees. The island has its food staples either sourced locally from nearby islands or flown in directly from France five times a week. And it is worlds away from our sun-soaked Margaritavilles to a place with an exotic geography, a European lineage and avery French aesthetic.

Dining on the sand at Anantara Desaru Coast Malaysia

Where: Malaysia

Chosen by: Melissa Klurmanis a travel expert, writer and editor and contributor atReaders Digest, Frommers Travel GuidesandParents,among other publications.

Why: Bask in the sun at Malaysias Desaru Coast, a spectacular, previously under-the-radar beach resort set on the golden shores of the South China Sea. Its just a 45-minute drive or boat ride from Singapore, so its easy to combine some R&R time along with a stay in the cosmopolitan city without having to book an additional flight. Another plus: Luxury resort groupAnantarais opening a new property in Desaru for 2020, sure to make the area a must visit in the new year. The resort has sleek rooms, chic villas, and family-friendly residences right on the sparkling sea, plus artisanal and cultural offerings including Malaysian culinary classes at the onsite Spice Spoons cooking school.

The skyline of Muscat, Oman.

Where: Oman

Chosen by: Dylan Essertier is a writer, speaker, and the Founder & CEO of Dylan Grace. Dylans travel expertise has been featured in WSJ Magazine, Vogue, Conde Nast Traveler, Departures, and more. Sign up for free weekly travel tips via her website and follow her around the world on Instagram.

Why: On the Middle East travel circuit, Oman is often overshadowed by its superlative-richneighbor, Dubai. The upside of Omans lower profile is that it offers travelers a mesmerizing blend of contemporary and ancient Arabia. Think: unspoiled emerald-hued fjords, bustling souks, spellbinding sandscapes, 17th century forts and pristine waters dotted with dolphins. There are currently a handful of top-tier accommodations to enjoy as well, with brands such as Alila, Ritz-Carlton, Shangri-La and Anantara offering high-end amenities, such as sleek infinity pools and world-class spas. Look out for the new Jumeirah Muscat Bay, a sprawling property slated to open this year which is certain to shine a spotlight on Oman. My advice: Book now before everyone else catches on to this remote, Frankincense-scented haven.

The old town of Porto, Portugal on the Douro River.

Where: Portugal

Chosen by:Eileen Ogintz is a leading national travel expert and syndicated columnist of the weekly column Taking the Kids and the creator ofTakingthekids.com.

Why: Its no secret that travelers want to take a deeper dive into places they are visiting, getting off the tourist track so they enjoy local music, food, and attractions. They also are seeking less touristed areas and want bragging rights to be the first to visit new or undiscovered places.

Such is the case with Portugal, which secured three out of five ofVrbos top international beach destinationsfor U.S. travelers. Though not undiscovered, it is certainly less touristed, less crowded, and more affordable than other European destinations.

One of the main reasons to visit Porto is to sample port wine, as well as just-out-of-the water Portuguese seafood and the delicious Pastel de Nata custard tarts. Ever since the 17th century, Vila Nova de Gaia has been the center of port production. There are many options for tastings at the Lodges here. The riverfront Cais da Ribeira is spectacular with the pastel-colored houses chock a block up the hills, flat-bottomed boats going back and forth and the amazing fish cooked up outside tiny restaurants. Increasingly popular river cruises through the Douro Valley leave from Porto and many people take a few days first to explore this wonderful city.

Many travelers start their Portugal journey in Lisbon with its Roman and Moorish ruins, cathedrals and big plazas. But like Porto, the real fun here is to get lost in the Alfama, Lisbons old town, wandering the streets, taking a tram, listening to traditional and modern fado singers in hole-in-the-wall restaurants. Just outside Lisbon are fantastic beaches and perhaps Portugals top tourist site, Sintra with its fairytale castle and extensive woodlands with trees that were brought from around the world.

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes in Paparoa National Park on the South Island of New Zealand.

Where: New Zealand

Chosen By:Ali Wundermanis a travel writer, guidebook author and wildlife photographer. Her work has appeared in TIME Magazine, Cond Nast Traveler and Lonely Planet. Originallyfrom San Francisco, Wunderman is now based in Montana.

Why: New Zealand has long been on the bucket list for adventure travelers, fueling the country's growth as an ideal destination for everyone. Despite the long distance, it's getting easier to reach New Zealand from the U.S., with new direct flights coming in late 2020. Air New Zealand will add a flight from New York, while American Airlines is adding Dallas to the roster, on top of the first ever direct flight to New Zealand's South Island, which will go from Los Angeles to Christchurch. While New Zealand is still the perfect place for backpackers and vanlifers to explore, the country's high-end offerings are strong, includingThe Elms on Lake Hayes, a$6,000-per-night ultimate luxury adventure resort made even better by the opening of their new villas.

Even the ice cream is extra special here, my favorite of which is the whimsical and innovativeGiapoin Auckland, which is always introducing new creations. Speaking of Auckland, more than 10 new hotels are coming to the country's biggest city, offering a wide range of options for every type of traveler. Outdoor enthusiasts can still expect new sights when they visit, particularly along thecountrys first Great Walk trail to open in more than 25 years. Tracing the Pororari River along the west coast of the South Island, the new Paparoa Track winds through Paparoa National Park, a reserve largely inaccessible until now.

Writer Olivia Balsinger in Croatia.

Where: Croatia

Chosen by: Olivia Balsinger has utilized her global perspective to manifest a career as a travel expert. She ditched NYC corporate life for adventure (and lust over a Danish boy!) in Copenhagen and hasnt looked back. Olivia has visited 103 countries and was honored as InterContinental Groups Latin America Journalist of the Year." She is the co-host of the upcoming immersive travel seriesJourney's Beyondand is the co-producer ofFly Brother, coming to PBS in 2020. Follow her adventures onInstagram.

Why: It seems as though the entire past decade has beenCroatias year. With balmy, rugged beaches and sapphire seawater adjacent to towering ancient walls that store the tales of time, how could Croatia not top every travelers list? Well, the country officially deserves the spotlight in 2020, as Croatia was named the top Emerging Destination by Virtuoso travel advisorsfor the new decade, honoring the stir caused by the Game-of-Thrones-effect, dramatic landscapes, and proximity to other European destinations. Of course,Splita coastal city that seamlessly intertwines modern life and ancient historyis widely known for its lavish yacht parties and Mediterranean climate in the summer. What you may soon discover is that Split is an all-season destination and considerably quieter and more affordable outside of July and August. The newly openedCornaro Hotelis a modern escape in the historic Old Town, standing just feet away fromDiocletian's Palace, where Emperor Diocletian slept every evening after voluntarily surrendering the throne of the Roman Empire. The Palace today, perched on the harbor and forming about half of Splits Old Town, is still vibrant with lifethe Michelin-starred restaurant Zoi, for example, is built into the fourth-century walls.

Of course, another famed destination in Croatia isDubrovnik the ancient jewel of baroque architecture and limestone streets cradled in the Dalmatian Mountains. Whether pretending to be Cersei Lannister a la GoT on the iconic Walk of Shame staircase, or imagining defending the citys honor on the famedand highly InstagrammableWalls of Dubrovnik, imaginative travelers will have a ball in town. The Hotel Excelsior, towering over the Adriatic and Old Town skyline, is the ultimate retreat for tourists. Dubrovnik is also emerging as an off-season destination, as well. The mild Croatian winter is a prime time to bask in culture, wander the holiday markets of Old Town, walk the promenade inCavtat, the idyllic resort town 20km south of Dubrovnik, all without the hordes of crowds summer months inevitably bring.

And this year there is even more reason to visitRijeka, Croatias third-largest city and largest port, will be honored as the European Capital of Culture in 2020. Rijeka has benefited from a diverse history, with Mediterranean, Eastern European, and Central European influences that have shaped its eclectic architecture, culture, and progressive spirit.

Hyatt Ziva in the Dominican Republic.

Where: Dominican Republic

Chosen by: Katie Jackson is a Montana-based travel writer whose work has been published byTravel & Leisure, USA TODAY, Fox News,andThe Sunday Times. Every trip she takes is an investment, and she likes to pay the rewards forward by helping other travelers. You can follow her adventures (and misadventures) onInstagram.

Why: This tropical paradiseand one of the Caribbeans most affordable islands to visitis determined not to have a repeat of last year. After severalhighly publicized American tourist deaths in 2019, the government is working overtime to reassure travelers that theDominican Republicis still their dream beach vacation. In fact, if you cant handle huge crowds or overpaying, there might not be a better time to visit. The decline in tourism has resulted in more available rooms, often at lower rates. It certainly hasnt stopped hospitality industry leaders like Hyatt from investing. Personally, Im itching to visit the DR in 2020 so I can check out the all new family-friendlyHyatt Zivaand adults-onlyHyatt Zilara Cap CanaHyatts first properties on the island. Combined, these all-inclusive resorts boast 700 luxury suites, a 14,000 sq. ft. fitness center and a Larimer stone cave spa with 18 massage rooms. Of course, the biggest allure of the Dominican Republicwhich is often spared from the worst hurricanesis still its Insta-worthywhite-sand beaches.

Polandone of the top places to go in 2020.

Where: Poland

Chosen by: Olivia Balsinger has utilized her global perspective to manifest a career as a travel expert. She ditched NYC corporate life for adventure (and lust over a Danish boy!) in Copenhagen and hasnt looked back. Olivia has visited 103 countries and was honored as InterContinental Groups Latin America Journalist of the Year." She is the co-host of the upcoming immersive travel seriesJourney's Beyondand is the co-producer ofFly Brother, coming to PBS in 2020. Follow her adventures onInstagram.

Why: The year 2020 commemorates the 75th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War, prompting numerous tributes around the world to honor and remember.Polandremembers the tragedy of war, with a death count of almost 6 million citizensabout one-fifth of the pre-war population. Today,the country welcomes guests to dually understand the atrocities that occurred within its borders and witness its process to heal. The sojourn should begin inKrakow, one of the few Polish cities to survive the destruction of Nazi-occupied Europe. Oskar Schindlers Factory, brought into widespread familiarity by the biopicSchindlers List, is now a museum that engages the five senses to help travelers empathize, mourn and ultimately reflect upon this dark chapter in the citys history. Krakow offers a variety of other attractions, such as Wawel Castle, Planty Park and the magnificentWieliczka Salt Mine.

Train travel has become more accessible in Poland in recent years, making traversing the country much simpler. Step on board for a 78-minute journey from Krakow toAuschwitz-Birkenaua place everyone owes themselves to visit as citizens of the world. The countrys capital,Warsaw, is also a testament to this journey of understanding. Although Warsaws landscape will forever pay homage to its fallen buildings and devastating past, it is simultaneously a city determined to change its future.The rebirth of Warsaw is a tribute to victims who wouldnt have allowed the rubble of their war-torn past to become a symbol of their home.

On the shores of Montreux, Switzerland.

Montreux, Switzerland

Chosen By:Ashlea Halpern, editor-at-large forAFAR;writer forCond Nast Traveler, AirbnbMagazine, andNew YorkMagazine, among other titles;and co-founder ofMinnevangelist, a site dedicated to spreading the gospel of Minnesotas greatness.

Why:As a travel writer, I had the great privilege of visiting more than 70 cities in 15 countries this year. Cracking my top five was beautiful Montreux, which I toured as part of a bespoke itinerary from leading rail tour operatorVacations By Rail.Located in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, Montreux boasts ornate Belle poque architecture, famous former residents such as Charlie Chaplin and Freddie Mercury, and a front-row seat to the snow-dusted French Alps and stunning Lake Geneva. Strolling the five-mile promenade of the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe should be a top priority for visitors; the path is a horticulturists dream, lined with weeping willows and tulips in every color of the rainbow.

Natural beauty aside, there are other reasons to visit Montreux. Top of the list is the final redevelopment of the 12th-centuryChillon Castle,in nearby Veytaux, Switzerlands most visited historic monument and the inspiration behind the castle in DisneysThe Little Mermaid. Freddie fans can get their fix at the Queen: The Studio Experience" exhibition at theCasino Barrire Montreux,former home of the recording studios where the band made seven albums between 1978 and 1995. In other big music news, the storiedMontreux Jazz Festivalwill celebrate its 54th anniversary next July with 16 days of free and ticketed concerts, including headliners Lenny Kravitz and Lionel Richie.

For oenophiles, there isLavaux Vineyard Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising 2,051 acres dating to the 12th century. For appreciators of dramatically wild landscapes, there is theMOB GoldenPass Expresstrain with panoramic windows. It is slated to launch a two-hour route by the end of 2020, traveling from Montreux to Zweisimmen with connections to Interlaken. Lake cruises, Le Corbusier architecture, the worlds first museum dedicated exclusively to food (Alimentarium), a handful of Michelin-starred restaurantswhats not to love?

Go here to read the rest:

Where To Go Next: 27 Best Places To Travel In 2020 - Forbes

A landmark financing agreement has been completed for the 15MW Tina River hydropower project in the Solomon Islands, allowing construction to start in 2020.

The Government of Solomon Islands and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, announced the completion of financing for the project. The over US$200 million package, through loans and grants from six institutions, marks the first large-scale infrastructure project for Solomon Islands to be developed as a public-private partnership (PPP).

The Tina River project will curb Solomon Islands reliance on imported diesel by almost 70%, lowering power prices for homes and businesses across the country, where the price of electricity is among the highest in the world and heavily exposed to global fuel price fluctuations and shocks. The project will also pave the way for the country to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by two and half times its 2025 target.

The Tina River Hydro is an historic project for Solomon Islands, said Hon. Manasseh Sogavare, Prime Minister of Solomon Islands. It will deliver cheaper power to Solomon Islanders and signals to investors that Solomon Islands is ready for large projects and partnerships. This first public private partnership infrastructure project in Solomon Islands opens the door for more, which will support much needed development, offering Solomon Islanders a better standard of living and more opportunities.

Tina Hydropower Limited (THL), the Tina River Hydropower Development Project company, formed by Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-water) and Hyundai Engineering Company Ltd. (HEC) will build and operate the hydropower facility on the Tina River, 20km southeast of the capital, Honiara.

The Tina River Hydropower Development Project is expected to create at least 440 jobs during the construction phase, which is also of benefit to the economy of Solomon Islands, said Dr. Jaeil Ryoo, Tina Hydropower Limited, Chief Executive Officer. Private companies have the capital and expertise to help make large projects like this a reality. We look forward to starting construction soon.

The World Bank Groups member organizations, which include the World Banks International Development Association (IDA), IFC and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) have been supporting the Solomon Islands Government to develop the hydropower project for more than 10 years, including through identifying renewable energy sources, feasibility studies, and providing risk insurance. IFC acted as lead transaction advisor to the Government and helped put in place the PPP with project preparation, the investor selection process, negotiation of project agreements and the final financing agreement package.

We are pleased to have supported the government of Solomon Islands by structuring a way to bring in the private sector to help the nations major shift from imported diesel to renewable energy, said IFCs Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific, Vivek Pathak. With the support of Australia, New Zealand and the multi-donor facility, DevCo, the agreement now in place shows how governments and the private sector can work together on key infrastructure projects to help nations wanting cleaner, cheaper and more reliable energy for their people.

The financial package for the Tina River project includes funding from IDA, the Green Climate Fund (GCF) the Republic of Koreas Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Australian Government. The total project cost is expected to reach US$240 million over the next 5 years.

The World Bank has been supporting the Solomon Islands bring Tina River Hydro to life since 2008, when the Solomon Islands Government first sought our help to look at potential options for to deliver safe, reliable and affordable renewable electricity to Solomon Islanders, said World Bank Country Director for Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands, Michel Kerf. Since then, we have been proud to support Solomon Islands to bring this project to where it is today: with funding secured, environmental and social safeguards in place, financing arrangements locked in, and soon the start of construction on what will be a landmark development project for the country.

The project also marks the first in the country to introduce a unique landowner participation scheme with sharing of royalties through cooperatives benefiting more than 4,00 people from communities around Tina River, with benefits shared equitably among community members, including women and children.

IFCs work advising the government of Solomon Islands on the project was undertaken under the Pacific Partnership- through which the governments of Australia and New Zealand and IFC are working to spur private sector investment in the Pacific. The project also received invaluable support from DevCo, a multi-donor facility affiliated with the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) with funding from the Netherlands and Sweden.

The project has also been supported by the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program and Global Infrastructure Facility.

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Tina River project construction set to start next year - International Water Power and Dam Construction

More than 179,000 African Americans served in the U.S. Colored Troops (USCT) during the Civil War. The USCT made up over 10% of the Union Army and 25% of the Union Navy, but the service of those men is often a footnote in history books.

A new exhibit at Gulf Islands National Seashores Fort Pickens Discovery Center highlights 17 members of the 25th USCT, Company G, who served in the Pensacola Bay area, defending Fort Barrancas from April to August in 1864. The exhibit of life-sized portraits stems from a collection of postage-stamp-sized photographs that became the fascination of Ann Arbor illustrator Shayne Davidson in 2012.

I was working on a family tree for a friend when I asked if she had any photos, and she put me in touch with her cousin, who told me about this tiny album that belonged to her great-grandfather, Captain William A. Prickett, Davidson recalled.

Inside the locket-sized album are 18 portraits of men from the USCT, Company G. While the photos had little to do with her friends family tree, she became fascinated by the men from the album. Her friend sent photos of each portrait all but one had names handwritten on the matte.

I started to do research, thinking I wouldnt find much out about them, but then I came across (the website) Fold3, which has military records. I was able to trace each of them to varying degrees. Some, I have their complete life stories others I might have a census record or two.

Only one story about Capt. Pricketts time with USCT was passed down generations.

(Captain Prickett) got sick at Fort Barrancas, and he believed he wasnt going to make it, Davidson said. He credited the men for saving his life.

Coincidentally enough, through her research, she found one of the soldiers, James Tall, had a daughter named Pensacola.

That tells me that the time (the company) spent there had some impact, she said.

After spending time with the portraits and putting stories to each face, Davidson decided to try and re-create them in life-size form. The exhibit has traveled to several states and will be at Gulf Islands National Seashore through May 15. It's the first temporary exhibit for the center.

The exhibit is also a chance for GINS staff to sort through its collection of 500,000 artifacts, which are rarely on display since the Fort is vulnerable to storms and flooding. Curator Catherine Everitt said the exhibit was timed to be taken down by hurricane season for that reason.

The artifacts come from the Seashores collection as well as private collectors. One item in particular was an exciting find.

To everyones surprise, we found a muster roll for Company G and we found 16 of the names from the exhibit, Everitt said.

She and curatorial assistant Victoria Cacchione worked on researching what life was like for the USCT. Men joined voluntarily, and were typically given manual-labor jobs, Everitt said. And they faced discrimination just like in civilian life. The exhibit shares the patriotism and the hardships.

Its one thing to read about this, but this is history you can hold, Everitt said. These were real people, not just some pages in a book.

Shards of a harmonica uncovered from an excavation gives a sense of the soldiers lives outside of war, said Cicchione.

Davidson said she didnt have a goal in mind when she started her portrait project. But whenever the exhibit makes a new stop, she always hopes that a descendent can find a piece of their history.

Pastor C. Marcel Davis is a local descendent of a USCT soldier, Jonas Brown. Brown was raised in Washington County and worked on a steamboat with his best friend. They shipped gopher tortoises from Vernon to Pensacola as a delicacy.

Davis said he didnt know much about his great-grandfathers service. As a kid, the stories were kind of lost on him. As an adult, Davis shares his ancestry with pride.

It shows the tenacity of African men in America, he said. After all those years I kind of look back and Im astounded how that history is not always recognized.

Davidsons exhibit has taken on a life of its own and shes pleased to be in the background, she said. And the little album that started it all? The family has since donated it to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture. Davidson and Pricketts descendants all met up to donate the album. It was the first time Davidson saw it in person.

I was overwhelmed, she said. Its been a really amazing experience.

See the article here:

New Exhibit Highlights African American Soldiers Of The Civil War - WUWF

Boys stand with a healthy crop of invasive Phragmites at Cheyenne Point on Beaver Island in 2004. Image: stoptheinvasives.wordpress.com

By Helen KorneffelCapital News Service

Michigan researchers recently created a series of steps to show people how to rid Great Lakes islands of plants and animals that invade their ecosystems.

Pamela Grassmick started a grassroots educational campaign to treat invasive species on northern Lake Michigans Beaver Island, where she was born and raised. She targeted phragmites, a non-native plant that grows in wetlands, along roadsides and shorelines.

We always felt that the state wasnt going to ride in on a white horse and solve all of our problems because we are in the middle of Lake Michigan, Grassmick said.

Invasive species locations on High Island. Image: Michigan Natural Features Inventory

The program told Beaver Islanders how phragmites devastated the shoreline and how to remove the invasive plant. About 30 acres of the islands shoreline was affected by phragmites at the time.

Grassmicks work inspired researchers at the Michigan Natural Features Inventory, a group of scientists who conduct fee-for-service and grant-funded projects for public, nonprofit and private clients. They maintain the most comprehensive database on rare species and natural communities in the state.

I used to think invasive species work was too overwhelming and that there was nothing I could do about it, said Phyllis Higman, a senior conservation scientist with the group and co-leader of the invasive species prevention effort.

After I saw Pam and her team on Beaver Island bring down 30 acres of phragmites to two acres in their first year, I was inspired to do similar work, she said. The work these folks are doing is so extraordinary and proactive.

Higman and the research team developed a series of questions to diagnose invasive species problems and solutions: What are you trying to protect? Is the invader a real threat? Do we know how to control it? Where is it? How much of it is there?

Oftentimes, when people learn about invasive species, they just want to go out and kill things, Higman said. That is almost never an effective approach. You need to see where those species actually occur and where you can be effective at addressing them.

The research team saw how invasive species directly affected ecosystems by travelling to Great Lakes islands. Michigan has 1,709 islands, but 14 comprise 90% of the states entire island area.

Brandon Shroeder, senior educator with Michigan Sea Grant, and students monitor Phragmites on Charity Island. Image: Tracy DAugustino

The research team recorded rare animals, plants and high-quality communities on each island. They comprise about 10% of the organizations database, but they are only 1% of the area of Michigan. More than 90 percent of the colonial waterbirds in the Great Lakes were observed on islands.

The Great Lakes has the largest group of freshwater islands in the world, and its a really critical resource, said Daria Hyde, a co-leader of the research team. I feel that because we live in Michigan and a Great Lakes state, its upon us to make sure that were taking care of and providing stewardship for that important resource.

Higman and Hyde were asked to spearhead the invasive species project by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy because of a lack of attention to Michigans islands.

The diversity and number of islands in the Great Lakes goes unrecognized, said Matt Preisser, the lake coordinator for the state agencys Water Resources Division. While the islands across the different lakes have different needs by virtue of their geographies, all are vulnerable to invasive species, colonization and establishment.

The team accumulated data over a year on where invasive species are located on the islands. They want to ensure the beauty of the islands and that invasive species do not squash their dynamic ecosystems, Hyde said.

Invasive species are literally marching across landscapes, including islands, and theyre simplifying ecosystems, Higman said. Theyre taking species out systematically by displacing them and that crashes food webs. The more species are taken out by invasion, the less resilient the islands and Michigan will be.

View the developed invasive species proactivity guide developed by the group here https://mnfi.anr.msu.edu/reports/MNFI-Report-2019-20.pdf.

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Fighting invasive species on one island led to plan for all - Great Lakes Echo

Diane Bair and Pamela Wright, USA TODAY "Go Escape" magazine Published 8:00 a.m. ET Nov. 10, 2019 | Updated 9:48 a.m. ET Nov. 11, 2019

Petit St. Vincent(Photo: Mike Toy)

From afar, you may not be impressed. Petit St. Vincent (PSV) looks like a green hump of land as you approach it by ferry from Union Island, about 6 miles from the destination. Then, a series of cottages emerges, built into the hillside and bluffs and along the beach. Thats when things begin to look promising. And, once youre whisked by golf cart to your stone-and-hardwood abode through a whorl of sweet-scented tropical blooms, you realize youre in for something special.

Welcome to your own nearly private island. Theres no town on this 115-acre volcanic isle, just a single resort with a practical name that reiterates its location: Petit St. Vincent. Its been called one of the worlds most enchanting hideaways. Part of the island country of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, lying between St. Lucia (to the north) and Grenada (to the south), Petit St. Vincent is not easy to get to. For many U.S. guests, it involves a day of travel a flight to Barbados, a shorter flight to Union Island and then a ferry ride to PSV. Any travel-induced crabbiness vanishes once you see this place up close: a collection of 22 rustic one- and two-bedroom cottages and villas, ringed by 2 miles of white sand and lapped by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other. Do the math: Every guest has a couple of acres each, says Matt Semark, general manager of the resort, which owns the island.

This is peaceful luxury: vibrant artwork, teak furnishings, a wood-paddled ceiling fan and of course a hammock tied between two palm trees. (Theres also air conditioning, but you probably wont need it thanks to those ocean breezes.) Cottages and villas have king-size beds, Italian linens, Bulgari toiletries, Nespresso coffee machines and Bose MP3 docks.

What you wont find in your room: Wi-Fi, TV or locks on the doors.

You can see the weight shift off peoples shoulders when they are unplugged from their devices.

Guests are often taken aback when they learn that the only connected spot is at the resorts main pavilion. (Rooms do have intercoms in case of emergency.) At first, some guests panic, Semark admits. But the following day, they appreciate it. You can see the weight shift off peoples shoulders when they are unplugged from their devices.

It can also be disconcerting that the doors dont lock but in such an open-air space, it probably doesnt matter anyway. The resort has never had an issue with security, Semark says. Its been like this (no locks) since the resort opened in 1968. On this island, its just us. Theres no crime. Everyones auntie or uncle.

Untethered from the 24/7 news cycle, its easy to fall into the carefree rhythm of island life. PSV uses a flag system to alert butlers if you need anything, and you place your breakfast order in a bamboo tube the previous night. Like magic, your meal appears in the morning. Its easy to go into major chill mode and spend the day sitting under a palapa watching the sailboats glide by. But most guests cant resist the array of sporty activities available at the resort: kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, Sunfish sailboating, sailboarding and snorkeling all included in the room rate. Some of the finest snorkeling in the West Indies is found in the Grenadines, and you can snorkel right off the beach. Once youve found the perfect spot for sunbathing, dont bother getting up. On some beaches, guests can order food using the flag system.

Rather sail or scuba dive? Sessions and courses provided by Professional Association of Diving Instructors guides are available. Or spend a day aboard Beauty, a classic 49-foot sloop (extra charges apply for both of these). Captain Jeff Stevens and crew sail Beauty to the famed Tobago Cays (named one of the most beautiful places on Earth in the book 1,000 Places to See Before You Die) for a snorkel tour, an island hike and barbecue lunch of local fish and Caribbean lobster.

If hiking is more your speed, lace up those sneakers and trek to the top of Marni Hill (an elevation of 275 feet), for sweeping views of the northern Grenadines. Or get plenty of exercise riding your bike around the island; every cottage is supplied with bikes for guests use. Other things not to be missed: a Balinese massage at the resorts treetop spa with an ocean view and morning yoga at the Conch Bay Yoga Pavilion.

Swim with marine life in Petit St. Vincent(Photo: Jean-Michel Cousteau Diving)

As if choosing which sport to try and which hammock has the best views werent difficult enough, youll also have to decide what to order at PSVs restaurants. Theres no wrong answer the food is delicious, and it couldnt be fresher. The resorts gardens are lush with kale, different types of lettuces and herbs, and the kitchen relies on the bounty of farmers and fishermen from the islands. Sustainable practices are a priority. (Refill stations for water bottles are one example.) You can literally dine with your toes in the sand at the casual Beach Restaurant, where the menu leans toward Caribbean tapas and pizza from a clay oven. The Main PavilionRestaurant and Bar offers a more formal three-course dining experience, atop a hill overlooking the harbor amid flowering frangipani and hibiscus.

With rates starting at around $1,260 per night in low season, Petit St. Vincent is a splurge, but its the rare resort that makes unwinding so effortless. And while youre here, watching the world go by from your hammock, it sure feels like it all belongs to you.

Studio Gannett's "Go Escape" Winter 2020 magazine(Photo: Studio Gannett)

Read or Share this story: https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/2019/11/10/caribbean-petit-st-vincent/2518698001/

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Guest rooms at Petit St. Vincent resort don't have WiFi or locking doors and that's OK - USA TODAY

Situated 25 miles east of the Swedish coast, and officially an autonomous region of southwestern Finland, the Aland archipelago consists of about 6,700 named islands and 20,000 smaller rocky outcrops and islets waiting to be discovered. Conquered by Russia in the early 19th century, Aland was declared a Finnish territory in 1921, but the core of its traditions are Swedish, as is the official language. With the Baltic Sea as its backdrop, the archipelago ranges topographically from barren coastal cliffs to stunning white-sand beaches to forests and fertile farmland. Only 35 of the Aland Islands are inhabited and easily accessible from mainland Sweden and Finland; the central islands are linked to one another by bridges and cable ferries, while car ferries connect the archipelagos more remote reaches.

At the archipelagos center is Mainland Aland, home to the regions capital, Mariehamn, and much of the Alands population. The seat of the areas grain trade in the 19th century, the port town is now home to a maritime museum, a rich craft culture and restaurants that make use of local ingredients like fresh fish and dairy, wild red berries and spirits produced nearby. The archipelago also draws outdoors-minded visitors thanks to its back-to-nature lodgings, cycling routes, hiking trails and kayak-friendly waterways and its status as the sunniest area in northern Europe.

Set amid the hills of the town of Geta (on the northernmost tip of Mainland Aland), this Scandinavian hideaway offers 30 rooms and suites in its main lodge, most with floor-to-ceiling windows, plush oak interiors and seaside saunas; there are also 20 wooden villas, with fully equipped kitchens and spacious terraces. Guests can explore the nearby pine forest by bicycle or jog along the islands red granite cliffs and the arrival to HavsVidden is an attraction in and of itself; some visitors take a helicopter from Stockholm or travel by sailboat to the propertys private harbor. havsvidden.com

These lodgings extend across a trio of islands in the northern Alands; Silverskar, for which the business is named, is home to several wooden cottages and traditional log cabins. Farther afield on Klobben Island, 10 gray oceanfront cottages built to mimic the overnight refuges fishermen used in the early 1900s are positioned near a cliffside sauna cut to match the curvature of the surrounding red granite rocks. And on neighboring Sviskar, an off-the-grid, four-bed log cabin offers a back-to-basics experience complete with a wood-fired sauna for guest use. silverskar.ax

The celebrated Finnish chef Michael Bjorklund put Aland on the culinary map in the fall of 2012 when he opened the Smakbyn campus which comprises a restaurant, separate cafe, distillery, wine cellar, market and cooking school next to Kastelholm Castle, about 20 minutes by car from Mariehamn. The Smakbyn kitchen uses only ingredients found on the Aland Islands to form traditional dishes like oven-baked cod with hand-peeled shrimp basted in brown butter or horseradish and berries preserved in housemade rum and served with lingonberry, pear and cinnamon ice cream. Bjorklund himself leads five-hour-long cooking classes, the price of which includes a complimentary apron and wine or beer. smakbyn.ax

At this family-run farm in Finby, in northeastern Aland, Jennifer Sundman and Lars-Johan Mattsson (and their six cows) produce a range of specialty dairy products, from homemade kernel butter to rapeseed-oil cheese spiced with seasonings like rose pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, and garlic. Visitors can tour the facilities before stopping at the farms own cafe for light bites like salads with freshly made halloumi or decadent organic ice cream from the in-house creamery that comes in flavors such as sea buckthorn, rhubarb and lingonberry. mattas.ax

Founded in 2014 by the brewmaster Tony Asumaa, this factory produces the sole soft drink in the archipelago, known as lemonade, despite being carbonated. Free of artificial colors and flavors, the cold-pressed juice is mixed with fresh water and a touch of sugar, and packaged in an old-fashioned glass bottle. Visitors can book private tastings to sample the 12 varieties flavors include apple peel, lingonberry, rhubarb-elderflower and cranberry all made from fruits grown deep in Finlands verdant forests. limonad.ax

This Mariehamn studio once belonged to a traditional goldsmith, but now houses the archipelagos leading jeweler, founded by Maria Karlstrom in 1989. Each Guldviva piece is handmade from either 18-karat gold or recycled sterling silver, and designed to reflect Karlstroms childhood summers spent in the Alands. Though she now has a team, Karlstrom still crafts the brands signature cowslip-shaped blomman charms by hand: She twists, solders and hammers the metal into the form of the official flower of the Aland islands. guldviva.com

Founded nearly two decades ago by a small group of full-time artisans, this cooperative in Mariehamn is a one-stop shop for handmade wares produced in the Aland archipelago. Customers can browse a selection of goods by 60 Aland craftspeople, from traditional earthenware and stoneware to wool socks made using sheepskin sourced from local farms. Edible items are also on display, like the shops proprietary line of salt-and-herb mixes for cooking and Aland-made jellies and chocolates. salt.ax

What began in the 1920s as a private collection of antique sailing regalia like ship bells and figureheads belonging to the former sea captain Carl Holmqvist is now the largest museum in Mariehamn, open to the public since 1949. Among the objects on display: one of the worlds only authentic skull-and-crossbones pirate flags, a 200-year-old artifact that came to the Aland Islands from the Mediterranean coast of North Africa. Following a renovation in 2012, the museum now features a self-guided tour of the Pommern, a four-masted, iron-hulled barque docked in front of the museum with an exhibit that recounts the crews voyages to carry grain from England to Australia in the 1920s. sjofartsmuseum.ax

Originally built as a fortress in the late 1300s, this medieval castle situated on the shores of Lumparn Bay, 20 minutes by car from Mariehamn has withstood sieges, fires and rebellions; until the 1600s, the building served as the administrative center of Aland and was, at one point, the royal hunting lodge for Gustav Vasa, the King of Sweden from 1523 to 1560. Today, visitors can take one-hour tours of the open-air Jan Karlsgarden museum, where 20 traditional farmhouses offer insight into how native Alanders have lived and worked since the 1930s. The grounds are also home to the prison museum Vita Bjorn, which explores the castles history of jailing notable Swedish royals. kastelholm.ax

Visitors to Finlands southernmost apple orchard have been known to arrive by ferry, bike, sailboat and even kayak since it opened to visitors in 2016. But Peders Aplagard started to produce sweet and crisp rubinola, lobo and raike apples decades before then, in 1985. Now, the orchard includes 1,200 trees, and has its own farmhouse cafe and shop where travelers can taste and take home jams, baked goods, locally produced honey and apple ciders flavored with lingonberry, juniper berries and gooseberries. aplagarden.ax

The rest is here:

A Guide to the Aland Archipelago, Where You Can Sleep on Your Own Island - The New York Times

Lelepa island in Vanuatu boasts pristine white sand beaches and swaying palm trees with limited access to fresh water and power. It is remote, stunning and almost stands still in time. But not for long.

Lelepa is home to a number of traditional island villagers with a long and beautiful ancestry and is one of 83 islands in the Republic of Vanuatu, a stunning archipelago of natural reefs and volcanos known as the ring of fire including one extinct volcano in the distance on the island of Nguna.

But fast forward exactly two years to October 2022, and Lelepa is forecast to look vastly different. The Royal Caribbean day club is proposed to open for passengers up to 4,500 of them per day to begin with offering the opportunity to experience a Perfect Day on a tropical island.

Pristine Lelepa island is about to be transformed

Ever since the announcement that the worlds second biggest cruise ship company had negotiated a lease with the Vanuatu Government, speculation has been rife about what that would mean.

In an exclusive interview with the Australian architects behind Royal Caribbeans new private waterpark island in Vanuatu, we discover what a Perfect Day at Lelepa is going to look like. According to head designer David Holm, of Cox Architects, its going to be all about chill and thrill.

A look at Coco Cay in the Bahamas RCCLs existing island

There will be huge water slides, some of the worlds longest and fastest zip lines, kids water parks, swimming pools, numerous dining options, a wave pool, hot air balloon rides, private beach clubs for adults, family designated beach areas, possible over water bungalows and of course, a pier large enough to receive the cruise ships.

Perfect Day at Coco Cay under construction earlier in 2019

The difference between this island design and existing RCCL private islands such as Coco Cay in the Bahamas is that Cox Architects say they will be attempting to integrate as much of the local Vanuatu design and culture as possible, to give it a more aesthetically sensitive look and feel.

So what exactly does this mean?

The main pavilion areas will be based on traditional Vanuatu meeting place designs called Nakamals, with large open-air roofs, woven natural materials, bamboo, local wild cane, and naturally sourced timbers and furniture sourced in the South Pacific, says Mr Holm.

A traditional open air nakamal meeting place

This will be a fully carbon neutral island, with a sustainable energy and waste management system, and we aim to immerse ourselves in the local culture and design to achieve an authenticity and calibre of thoughtfulness, Mr Holm says.

Vanuatus culture and style will be integrated into Perfect Day

Think of Indiana Jones, with a bit of Mad Max mixed in, Mr Holm says, when describing how the island is going to feel for passengers when they arrive. We want to leave a light footprint with no pipes in and no pipes out and we want the guests to feel like they are explorers.

We will collaborate with local builders, businesses and villagers to blend the indigenous culture into the island experience. We want this Perfect Day to be grown and crafted in-keeping with the Vanuatu style, Mr Holm added.

Ni Vanuatu locals are hoping to be consulted on the plans

So the chill and thrill? It will have something for everyone catering to a large density of guests, but people who also do not want to queue. It will be fun, with escape areas too, says Mr Holm.

Over water bungalows are on the cards for a more chilled zone

Community consultation meetings are being held with local residents in the coming weeks, with detailed designs promised to be made public by April next year.

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Exclusive: how Royal Caribbean's private Island will "chill and thrill" - Cruise Passenger