Monthly Archives: June 2022

The time has finally come to travel again, and the leaders in love and romance at Sandals Resorts are welcoming couples who are inspired to rediscover the vibrant tropical paradise that is Nassau, Bahamas.

Newly reopened in February following a $55-million transformation, Sandals Royal Bahamian stands ready to provide the luxury all-inclusive beach vacation youve been yearning for.

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Just a short jaunt from Miami, this sunny tropical destination delivers everything guests could want in one convenient stay. And, the resort itself is only a 15-minute transfer from the local airport, minutes from downtown Nassaus many attractions, tours, shopping, dining, casinos and more.

With its recent reopening, Sandals Royal Bahamian rolled out new programming for early check-ins, called The Breakaway, which pulls out all the stops for the ultimate guest welcome experience. Early arrivals receive a signature cocktail, then a dedicated hostess leads them directly to a relaxation lounge where they can freshen up and proceed straight to the pool to unwind, while resort staff takes care of the rest of their check-in.

The adults-only property also added two New River Pools, which lend their refreshing water to the resorts 10,000-plus square feet of freshwater swimming poolssome of the most impressive on the island.

Other all-new features include the Island Village, where designers drew inspiration for the soft pastel color palette and locally-derived design touches from the Bahamian archipelago itself. Island Village celebrates the easy-going spirit of the islands by blending traditional elements with a thoughtful, modern approach to luxury. The suites in this section provide optimal seclusion, with a private patio where guests can step right into their own private plunge pool. Overlooking the resorts lush tropical gardens, the intimate outdoor area also includes a bistro set and Tranquility Soaking Tub.

The renewed resort also boasts new Beachfront Swim-Up Suites, which are likewise in the Love Nest Butler category, situated just steps away from the powdery sand and surf. Besides the spectacular views and easy beach access, guests also enjoy zero-entry access to an exclusive infinity-edge, swim-up pool.

Another new addition is the relaxing Coconut Grove beachfront lounge, where guests can kick back during the day under the shade of coconut palms, then come back at night to enjoy live music and entertainment outdoors.

Sandals Royal Bahamian is also Nassaus only resort with its own private island. The exclusive island hideaway of Sandals Barefoot Cay is included in your stay. It boasts all the amenities of a complete resort, including a private beach, pool, jacuzzi, two dining experiences, chic entertainment and much more. Surrounded by colorful coral reefs, this serene private paradise is only five minutes away from the main resort via the Sandals Love Runner Boat.

Plus, its an easy hop to nearby sister resort at Sandals Exuma for guests who fancy a split-stay vacation. Its also the perfect option for a day trip where you can swim with the famous Bahamian beach-going pigs in idyllic Caribbean waters.

For more information, visit sandals.com/royal-bahamian.

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Explore New Features at the Reimagined Sandals Royal Bahamian - TravelPulse

The beginning of June is a special time for my family. For over 20 years, distant family members make their way to North Carolinas barrier islands. Like birds of the same feather, we migrate back to the North Carolina coastline. Together, we make memories of boating, fishing and playing in the waves.

Most recently, we have been staying far south on Route 12 in the small town of Frisco, North Carolina. We like that the roar of the crashing ocean waves is louder than tourist attractions.

Even though we embrace tradition and look forward to the same yearly expeditions, this year turned out to be a little different. From wildlife to weather, our week unrolled in unexpected ways.

Our kids really enjoy taking the ferry operated by the state of North Carolina from Hatteras to Ocracoke Island. Instead of waiting until the midway point of the trip when traffic lines are long, we went early on Monday.

This turned out to be excellent planning to escape any crowds. The village of Ocracoke is only 4 square miles in area, but the undeveloped beaches stretch out for about 15 miles. Known for their seclusion and natural beauty, playing on the beach at Ocracoke made it seem like we were on our own private island.

Looking in either direction down the coast, we couldnt see another person. However, many birds make their home on pristine beaches. To protect several species, a section of the beach was closed to vehicles, dogs, and people. Black skimmers, terns, and piping plovers need protection due to a decrease in number.

Black skimmers were once killed for their feathers. As their name implies, they skim the water with their lower mandible, snapping their upper mandible shut when they catch a fish. They fish by touch instead of by sight.

Many coastal birds like black skimmers and piping plovers lay their eggs right on the sand or shell fragments near small amounts of vegetation. The biggest threat to their survival is the loss of beach-nesting habitats. Ocracoke Island is included in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore; the protected beaches will remain in their exquisite natural state, undeveloped for years to come.

After a morning of playing in the waves and collecting shells, we traveled farther south. The road is bordered on both sides by dunes covered in sea oats. Maritime forests and marshlands separate the road from the Pamlico Sound.

The quaint village of Ocracoke has a vibe all its own. Historical markers along with shops and restaurants make up the main stretch through town. Sailboats bob up and down on Silver Lake, which is more like a bay or lagoon. Other boats and a south-bound ferry also use the harbor. Pelicans perch on the pylons near the docks waiting patiently for their next snack.

After a quick stop for our own snack of ice cream, we headed back to Hatteras Island. The crowd of seagulls trailing the ferry grew as we made the 60-minute commute in the dredged channel.

Back at the beach house, another coastal bird made an appearance. I thought at first that it was a Northern cardinal. However, this bird had a leaner appearance and didnt have the same crest. After some research, I realized it was a male Summer Tanager.

Crimson in color with a few orange feathers if its molting, summer tanagers are commonly seen in eastern North Carolina. These songbirds mainly eat insects and have a fondness for consuming bees.

An evening trip to Cape Hatteras lighthouse made it possible to see the sunset behind the iconic black and white swirled beacon. We were in for another treat when a rare songbird could be heard trilling in the nearby trees.

Nocturnal by nature, a chuck-wills-widow sounded like it was in the trees next to marshy inland water. Its repetitive call was so unique that it captured our undivided attention. It preys on moths, beetles, and other insects as it flies. This feeding habit is made possible by stiff feathers called rictal bristles that act as a funnel. The specialized feathers direct the bugs which serve as pops of protein into the birds wide-opening mouth.

A few big storms during the week scattered the birds and sent us scrambling for cover in the house. High winds cut the fishing success rate for the week in half, but the fishermen in our group did manage to catch one elusive pompano.

For our last morning on the island, I woke up early for the sunrise. With the moon still glittering on the waves, I walked north to see the first rays of daybreak over the dunes.

Without too many feathers ruffled, we made it back home to Ohio. My kids were excited to see the return of the lightning bugs and two very rambunctious dogs. Nothing is better than your very own cozy nest after a long flight.

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Geiss family gets close to nature on relaxing beach vacation - Farm and Dairy

You could probably get used to living there.

If youve got $26.5 million to spare, a beachfront Florida panhandle mansion is on the market.

Mont Blanc is a four-story, 9,051-square-foot mansion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico at 146 Montgomery St. in Seagrove.

Modeled on the architecture of the Greek Islands, the home was designed by Archiscapes & TS Adams Studio, with construction by Scott Barnes Development and interiors by Robin Rains Interior Design.

Completed in 2019 on an 18-month construction schedule, the home features six bedrooms, six bathrooms and three half-baths.

Entering on the ground floor, one sees a private courtyard with three oversize garage stalls and premium lighting.

A eurowall compliments the homes private pool deck, along with a covered patio overlooking the beach, with space for a full outdoor kitchen.

The first level also offers a full king suite, with bathroom and walk-in shower. Theres a separate laundry area, pool bathroom, commercial ice maker and additional storage.

A grand foyer staircase cast in white venetian plaster ushers you up to entertainment space on the second floor.

The living area offers 180 degree views over the gulf, with a gas fireplace and adjacent chefs kitchen & adjoining scullery. Theres also a two large king suites, and whats described as a Pinterest-style bunk room.

The master level on the third floor has a spa-like master bathroom, complete with heated seating in the steam shower, a private massage and body scrub table, and a wall of windows to catch the sunset over the water.

The floor has its own laundry station, wet bar, sauna and fitness room.

Theres an additional bedroom suite on the third floor, and a third laundry station for guests.

On the top floor, a custom built bar area and wine cave opens up onto a veranda.

Theres also marble and hardwood flooring throughout the house, hand-hewn oak beams and eucalyptus wood accents, and fortified concrete construction.

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This $26.5 million Florida beachfront mansion brings the Greek Islands to the Gulf of Mexico - AL.com

On a clear enough day from just about any vantage point with real elevation around Los Angeles, the coastline of Catalina Island is visible out in the Pacific. The wavy outline of the 22-mile-long island hovers just below the horizon, calling to those on the mainland the same way it has for centuries. As part of an archipelago of islands that cluster off the western edge of the United States mainland, Catalina is a unique, inviting place with a deep history that winds back through the Civil War, past the earliest Spanish and Portuguese sailors, to early Tongva people, who are said to have lived on what is technically named Santa Catalina Island more than 8,000 years ago.

Its also like many islands with a subtropical climate and more than 260 days of sun per year an idyllic place to spend a day, sipping on mai tais, downing fish tacos, and taking in the sights from a golf cart. The island is everything all at once; a home for some of Californias oldest history, and a modern weekend getaway for families, boaters, and partiers. Weekend hikers trekking the length of the island or backpacking to remote campsites also make up a sizable portion of the million annual tourists that visit Catalina.

The primary town on the island is Avalon, a small hamlet that faces east toward Long Beach more than 20 miles away. (Kids who live on Catalina year-round are technically part of the Long Beach Unified School District, and take a boat to their away games.) Much of the island is held as a conservancy, handed over for protection by the Wrigley family (of Wrigley gum and Wrigley Field fame), the islands longtime owners. The Wrigley family still controls a large portion of the tourism market here, pulling in dollars and spearheading hospitality projects under the Catalina Island Company name. Two Harbors, a second small town toward the northern end of the island, is mostly a seasonal hospitality stop (with a small general store and snack shop) for campers and boaters, though it can be reached by occasional ferry trips as well.

In Avalon, a town that hovers under 5,000 residents for much of the year, the boisterous oceanfront walk and ferry drop-off area teem with restaurants, bars, hotels, and views. Sure, most of the food is standard tourist fare, but who doesnt like tiki drinks, mile-high burgers, and fried fish and chips platters?

If anything, its the everyday charm of Catalina that keeps tourists coming back year after year. Plenty of Angelenos who have lived here long enough have found themselves at Catalina one way or another, either on a field trip or with families or for a weekend getaway with friends. On Saturdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the shoreline swells with thousands of people, a crowd of floral prints, sandals, striped towels, and beach cruisers. Everyone eats in Avalon, and that means theres something for just about everyone, from coffee to seafood baskets to fine dining destinations. And while there is no singular, defining Catalina Island cuisine, there are opportunities to eat locally, from the chilly Channel Islands waters. Really, its just about knowing where to go.

Catalina Express ferries depart daily from the larger Long Beach port terminal and from San Pedro and Dana Point during the summer high season; the island is also serviced out of Newport Beach by the Catalina Flyer. Boats leave from Long Beach as early as 6 a.m. and from Avalon as late as 9:45 p.m. (on weekends), with round-trip tickets running just under $80 per person. Upgrades to the roomier Commodore Lounge are available, and passengers can drink citrusy bloody marys from a dedicated bar. Children and seniors get discounts, and there are extra fees for oversized luggage, bikes, and surfboards. The island can also be reached by private chartered boat, helicopter, or plane. (Con: The airport is a long drive outside of town, on a sometimes-ruddy bit of road. Pro: The restaurant at the airport serves a mean bison burger.)

Avalon itself is mostly walkable, though journeys to the Botanic Garden or up into the hills on foot can be tiresome, particularly in warmer summer months. Many folks opt to rent golf carts from one of several companies because, well, theyre fun, and offer easy opportunities to catch views overlooking Avalon and portions of the island beyond. Just be sure to book in advance or be prepared to wait in line for a time slot.

There is a small museum and art center on the island, as well as a golf course and endless knickknack shops to wander in. The round Catalina Casino, Avalons most noticeable landmark, still juts out into the water from town but rarely appeals to big movie crowds or ballroom dances anymore. Instead, consider it a small piece of walkable history to spend an hour at and no, there is no actual gambling at the casino, and never has been. There really is a Catalina Wine Mixer (though its a relatively recent addition to the calendar, having started only in 2017), which takes over a corner of the island early every summer.

Speaking of which, early summer can be among the best times to visit. The islands weather can and does change rapidly, going from foggy and coastal cool to hot and arid in a matter of hours. The boardwalk beach is sandy but small and can get crowded; those looking for solitude and serenity will need to book cabanas or lounge chairs at Descanso Beach Club. Rougher waters and cooler temps prevail in the fall and winter, the islands low season. And, of course, this being Southern California, expect the water to be chilly.

If you plan to stay overnight, there are dozens of hotels to choose from, as well as some limited home-rental options. Most hotels are on the small and spare side (owing to the high cost of construction on the island), with the most notable being Mt. Ada, the former Wrigley family mansion that has been converted into an upscale bed-and-breakfast. It books quickly.

Its no secret that, as in many other tourism-reliant communities, the quality and affordability of the food on Catalina Island can be hit or miss. Thankfully the views and sunshine do much to mitigate the mediocrity, and in-the-know travelers can find several gems along Avalons main streets. Here are some of the best spots to score food and drink not far from the ferry.

Its hard to think of a more iconic stop on any food and drink tour of Catalina Island than Luau Larrys, the decades-old tiki bar and restaurant right on the main drag. The no-reservations spot is small and seemingly always busy as tourists and locals file in for rum drinks and coconut shrimp. The drink of the house is the Wiki Wacker: a rum, brandy, and pineapple-orange juice concoction that comes with a woven hat to be worn while consuming. The restaurant is playful, easygoing, and impossible to miss plus, it serves pina coladas, mai tais, and zombies, ideal for tiki lovers hitting the town for the weekend. On the food front, expect grilled burgers with thick pineapple rings on top, as well as fried seafood, wings, and pizzas. 509 Crescent Street, Avalon.

For big platters of seafood served in a nautical environment (complete with watery blue tones and fish hanging from the ceiling), get to the Lobster Trap. The restaurant is located off of the front street but is no less busy, having become a kind of local must-try for the island. Steamed artichoke starters are a specialty (but alone theyre not worth the ferry trip), as is the namesake lobster, offered over salads, in sandwiches, and beyond. Southern California spiny lobsters are available in season as well, and a rotation of oysters (some local, some not) can be served raw or as cheesy, spinachy broiled oysters Rockefeller. The rest of the menu moves into pastas, burritos, and seafood plates like seared ahi tuna, while drinks lean colorful and fruity. 128 Catalina Street, Avalon.

Its rare that a new restaurant arrives on Catalina Island, let alone one as ambitious as the Naughty Fox. Located at the base of the Bellanca Hotel, the Naughty Fox feels more at home in Orange County than an island 22 miles off the California coast. Bright colors and a modern design aesthetic on the small patio marry well with an all-day menu that includes avocado toast, eggs Benedict (available with lobster), poke nachos made with fried wonton wrappers, and grilled ginger-scallion wings. There are lamb meatballs, grain bowls, a coconut-crusted fried chicken sandwich, and hummus and naan options as well. On the drinks front, find palomas, margaritas, some tiki nods, and standard beer and wine options (Veuve Cliquot for those celebrating, Bud Light for friends just hanging out). 111 Crescent Avenue, Avalon.

NDMK is one of the islands sleeper hits. Tucked away up from the main drag and abutting small cottages on a side street, this sushi-focused restaurant plays Dodgers games on a big television and knows how to season and grill up a mean piece of fish. The big, sometimes extra-saucy rolls dont always seem high-quality, but they are satisfying, as are the ceviche and large fish burrito. For best effect, snag a grilled fish plate, with the option to choose from a variety of seafood, listed by the location it was caught. Craft beer is plentiful here, including local brews from Monrovia-based OverTown Brewing. 109 Claressa Avenue, Avalon.

Sometimes simple is best, as is the case with Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co. Sure, theres hotel-grade coffee in the lobby and most restaurants will pour a cup, but for a morning jolt thats just a cut above, its best to swing in here. Better still, the shop is tucked up away from the endless crowds as part of the Metropole Market Place that surrounds the popular Hotel Metropole, allowing diners to score some seclusion with their espresso drinks. Savory morning bread, pastries, and frittatas round out the simple breakfast menu and of course, there should always be room for a cookie or two. 205 Crescent Avenue, Avalon.

While Catalina offers a lot for the day-tripping tourist, this is not the place of endless white sand beaches, body-temp water, and all-night raves. Perhaps the closest one can come to living that Instagram beach life is at Descanso Beach Club, around the bend from the casino and well away from the main Avalon attractions. Here, an endless cascade of sub-40 partiers arrive on weekends to dance, drink daiquiris, and down salads, burgers, tacos, and other beachy fare. Its best to book ocean-view loungers or group cabanas in advance (there are regular restaurant patio seats as well), but beware of their price: Primo cabanas run in the hundreds of dollars. There are weekend DJ sets on the property all summer long, but they only run from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Simply put: If you want the most beachy, sandy island experience that Catalina Island has to offer, expect to find it (and pay for it) here. 1 St. Catherine Way, Avalon.

While just about every restaurant in Avalon offers at least a partial view of the ocean, its hard to get much closer to the water than the back deck at Bluewater Grill. This is quintessential upscale island dining, the kind of place where boaters and families mix with weekend tourists and locals at the bar, surrounded by aquatic ephemera like fishing poles, wooden carvings of hanging seafood, and the occasional image of a marlin or tuna. The televisions are good for catching the game, but most eyes are on the water, where paddleboarders and swimmers compete for sunlight. Sailboats anchor just feet away, and the views facing the mainland are hard to beat. On the plate, expect the usual Bluewater fare (the group has other locations in Santa Barbara, Redondo Beach, Newport Beach, Temecula, and beyond), mostly composed of simply grilled or fried fish some seasonal, some local and the usual array of starters. Begin with a round of oysters and some wine, stay for the cioppino, and dont be afraid of the ice cream sundae. 306 Crescent Avenue, Avalon.

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Where to Actually Eat on Catalina Island This Summer - Eater LA

Travel

30 Jun, 2022 05:35 AM4 minutes to read

Banning "problem parties" and reopening to larger groups is Airbnb wanting to have its cake and eat it. Photo / 123RF

COMMENT:

Yesterday, Airbnb said it was banning parties for good. In the same instant it lifted the 16-person cap on property rentals, throwing open the doors on some very mixed messaging.

In a release the online rentals company said it would be making permanent the so-called "party ban" it imposed in 2020 amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

The US holiday rentals company began screening for problem bookings, looking for listings advertised on social media or profiling those making reservations a couple of years ago. They claim the largely automated screening process has been working and will be kept in place.

"We believe there is a direct correlation between our implementation of the policy in August 2020 and a 44 per cent year-over-year drop in the rate of party reports," the release states.

For its first decade the Silicon Valley-based rentals company was notoriously hands-off.

An early interview with the company on what they were doing to protect hosts' houses from being used for sex parties and destructive behaviour revealed a cavalier approach to controls.

"A lot of this stuff happens, and you just have to deal with it," said then head of global hospitality Chip Conley in a now-infamous 2014 interview with Fast Company.

We're doing what we can to stop orgies happening in your home, okay?

This changed in 2019 following a deadly shooting at an Airbnb property in Orinda, California, which was being used for a public party.

"Historically, we allowed Hosts to use their best judgment and authorise parties when appropriate for their home and neighbourhood," says the release.

The pressures from communities and a global pandemic forced the company to put a pause on party properties in August 2020, issued "until further notice".

The company says it had suspended 6600 accounts connected to "unauthorised parties" and "party houses" in 2021.

However, this did not put an immediate end to the problem. In New Zealand, revellers continued to find their way around screening methods.

In August 2021, a 16-year-old died at a party involving 80 young people in a Christchurch Airbnb. The devastated owners of the Medway Tce property said they had been "conned" by a fake profile.

The company says it will continue to screen suspicious bookings and properties and will be supporting neighbourhoods with a 24-hour phone line. Additional insurance has been made available by the platform to those who are letting properties.

However, the sheer scale of playing party police is more daunting now than ever.

As of 2022 there are 5.6 million listings on the website, more than there were pre-pandemic.

A tech-heavy approach, relying heavily on algorithmic screening of bookings, is very on-brand for Airbnb but will only go so far. One only has to look at other parts of the business to see there will always be a degree of trial and error in the "tech evangelism".

For example, there have been incidents of guests being left out in the cold and without lockbox keycodes after the Airbnb app began screening messages for phone numbers. There's never a perfect solution. Especially on the scale of a company the size of Airbnb.

But now Airbnb appears to want to have its party cake and eat it.

While saying the party ban will now be a permanent part of its policy, it also wants to remove all caps on guest numbers. Big bookings for large, speciality properties - castles, condos and private islands - are welcome.

Soirees, symposiums, get-togethers are all okay - just don't call it a "party". No pare la fiesta!

In the same release, the company said "plans are still under consideration" to grant party ban exemptions to hospitality venues.

Without giving any substantial information as to how they will be implementing this party ban, one presumes it will be much of the same.

Airbnb has 6000 employees, a number that's spread pretty thinly across what is fast approaching 6 million properties.

Here's a party plan: How about hiring more local staff in the 200-plus countries served by Airbnb?

At the moment Airbnb might have assumed the role of global party police but, when things go wrong, it's the hosts and house owners who end up being enforcers.

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Comment: Airbnb's party ban mixed messages are inviting trouble - New Zealand Herald

With 22,000 Tons of Fish Stolen Each Year,World Trade Organization Chief Hails Agreement on Harmful Subsidies

LISBON, June 28 An historic World Trade Organization (WTO) agreement to end harmful fishing subsidies set the stage for participants in an interactive dialogue held alongside the 2022 Ocean Conference today to outline long overdue measures that would help small island developing States and least developed coastal nations reap the benefits of the estimated $2.5trillion marine economy.

Trade is a solution to unlocking opportunities presented by the blue economy, World Trade Organization Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala told Governments, civil society representatives and others participating in a discussion on Promoting and strengthening sustainable ocean economies, in particular for small island developing States and least developed countries. The accord reached two weeks ago by the 164WTO members is the fruit of 21years of negotiations.

She said the ban is particularly important for small island developing States, as 22,000tons of fish are stolen each year from coastal communities. This agreement speaks volumes about the need for global solidarity to solve problems, she said, especially those affecting global public goods such as the oceans. A $10million fund was also created to provide technical assistance and improve fisheries management rules.

To realize the economic potential, she said small island developing States and least developed coastal countries will need strategies guaranteeing the sustainability of their traditional activities and efforts to develop emerging industries, such as maritime transport, port activities, shipbuilding, marine biotechnology, sustainable tourism and aquaculture.

Marine trade generates an estimated $2.5trillion annually, she added, making it the seventh largest economy in the world. WTO and multilateralism provide a predictable trading environment and facilitate flows and investments. WTO rules, together with major advances in finance, transport and communications, have enabled innovation, supported the creation of value chains and can now support the sustainable blue economy.

Next, Mari Pangestu, Managing Director of Development Policy and Partnerships for the World Bank Group, focused on coastal marine ecosystem assessment, stressing that overexploitation of the ocean represents $80billion in losses each year. To strengthen the resilience of coastal communities and ecosystems, the World Bank supports initiatives to combat ocean acidification and advocates for approaches to developing a sustainable blue economy. The aim is to help countries diversify their sources of economic growth by focusing on sustainable treatment of ocean activities, she explained, citing island States such as Cabo Verde as examples.

In recent years, she said the World Bank has also helped Bangladesh on the issue of plastic waste and supported island countries such as Cabo Verde and Sao Tome and Principe to develop the competitiveness of their sustainable tourism industries. These actions require the necessary financing but also demonstrate innovation to promote the blue economy in all its aspects.

Usha Rao-Monari, Under-Secretary-General and Associate Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), said the estimate that the global ocean economy comprises $2.5-3.5trillion of global gross domestic product (GDP) does not consider the cumulative socioeconomic costs of poor ocean management from overfishing to nutrient pollution to invasive species making its real value closer to $1trillion a year.

These massive losses translate into fewer jobs and livelihoods, she explained, as well as less tax revenue for States. In these circumstances, coastal small island developing States and least developed nations need technical and financial assistance, along with capacity-building in a wide range of ocean management tools, such as compliance and monitoring of fisheries, marine spatial planning, the establishment of marine protected areas and the fight against marine pollution.

On financing, Ms.Rao-Monari said these countries need help to remove barriers to private investment and put in place innovative instruments, such as blue bonds, debt-to-nature swaps and blue carbon financing. In addition to their remoteness, small population, narrow fiscal space and high dependence on economic sectors severely affected by the pandemic, they are not eligible for concessional financing, due to their classification as middle- and high-income countries.

In response to calls by small islands for a reassessment of their eligibility, UNDP has developed a multidimensional vulnerability index reflecting the traditional and emerging risks faced by all developing countries. It shows that most small island developing States are much more vulnerable than their income level alone may suggest. If this index were used as a financing criterion, rather than per capita income, small island developing States would save an average 1.5per cent of their GDP per year in interest payments, she explained.

In turn, Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations Global Compact, stressed the critical importance of the blue economy for coastal small island developing States and least developed countries whose ocean resources are a way to recover from the pandemic and move towards inclusive and sustainable development. As these projects require investment, she welcomed that the Global Compact saw exponential growth in private sector environmental commitments in 2021.

Business leaders are recognizing the urgent need for innovative solutions, she said, without which the global economy cannot be expected to move to net-zero carbon. In June 2022, nearly 3,200companies committed to the Science Based Targets initiative, of which the Global Compact is a founding partner. These companies cover more than a third of the global economy, with a market capitalization of $38trillion. Innovative financial mechanisms that catalyse private sector investment can also help these countries overcome some of the barriers preventing them from accessing capital to develop the blue economy.

In the same vein, Ricardo Mourinho, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank, said the value added by the blue economy is $1.5trillion, which would allow it to sit at the G7 table if it were a State, according to Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) estimates. If investments are made, the blue economy could more than double in value by 2030, making it one of the fastest and most sustainable economies in the world. But the lack of investment would need to be addressed, which is why the European Investment Bank, Governments, companies, banks, insurers and international financial institutions must do more to leverage public funds and generate private investment.

He said Governments would be tasked with better regulation to properly internalize climate risks, while insurers and banks would assess these risks to facilitate private investment. Recalling that the Bank has aligned all its activities with the Paris Agreement on climate change since 2021 and devotes more than 50per cent of its resources to climate and the environment, he assured that the institution has long been deeply invested in the blue economy. In particular, it has financed a third of the offshore wind farms in Europe, as well as the first floating wind farm, he said.

Rounding out the panel, Danny Faure, President of the Danny Faure Foundation and former President of Seychelles, estimated that a third of global investors are now interested in the sustainable blue economy. They are even more so when they see what island countries like Seychelles are doing: issuing blue bonds to finance the blue economy. Based on scientific data, Seychelles has decided to protect 30per cent of its ocean areas, allowing it to build resilience and support fisheries. This example must be followed around the world, he said, highlighting his countrys pioneering role in protecting the oceans, including within a coalition of 10countries in the Western Indian Ocean.

In the discussion that followed, the Prime Minister of Fiji, speaking for the Pacific Islands Forum, stressed that small island developing States cannot choose between preserving marine ecosystems and developing an ocean economy. In his view, the two can go hand in hand by finding a responsible balance between growth, social inclusion, livelihoods and nature protection. Countries can create a sustainable blue income stream that injects funds directly into their societies, helping to rebuild after disasters and boosting climate resilience.

We know this because we do this, he said, expressing regret that Goal 14 is the least funded and that there are no markets for carbon sequestration or coastal protection. His counterpart from Tonga said that full recognition of the special needs of small island developing States, particularly those in the Pacific, would go a long way towards strengthening the development of sustainable ocean-based economies. The achievement of target 14.7 of the 2030 Agenda must include the sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism, which requires detailed knowledge of the specific requirements of island nations.

That view was shared by the Minister of Health of Antigua and Barbuda, who highlighted the vulnerability of small islands to external shocks, such as the impact of climate change or fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. In trying to recover, Antigua and Barbuda is taking on more debt because it lacks access to preferential financing, he lamented. To remedy this situation, he called for the development of a multidimensional vulnerability index, as GDP alone does not measure the fragility of States. Ocean-based economies in island nations cannot be strengthened without support from partners around the world, the Maldives Environment Minister added. This means finalizing work on a multidimensional vulnerability index for small island developing States and least developed countries.

The Minister of Development of Trinidad and Tobago agreed that small island developing States lack the tools to take full advantage of the blue economy, calling for stronger partnerships to enable technology transfer and strengthened institutional and legal frameworks. She was joined by Swedens Minister for Cooperation, for whom the tools shared with these nations must be adapted to all regions, a proposal that China has endorsed. This also means financially, the Vice-Minister of International Cooperation of the Dominican Republic pointed out, expressing hope that new flows would be created to help small island developing States and least developed countries strengthen their national capacities.

Financing flows must be expanded quickly, as the investment gap is widening, warned the speaker from the Ocean Risk and Resilience Alliance. Priority must be given to increasing the resilience of the 250million people in coastal areas, who are highly vulnerable to climate change. The representative of Ireland, another island State, announced the release of $10million in aid to promote the blue economy in small island and least developed countries, as they are victims of climate change when they have contributed the least.

For its part, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is supporting the capacity of small island developing nations to address the effects of climate change in key sectors of the ocean economy, said its Deputy Director-General, welcoming the implementation of the new Doha Programme of Action for Least Developed Countries. Small islands and coastal least developed countries must benefit from state-of-the-art technology to protect the oceans, added Singapores delegate, supported by Papua New Guineas representative.

The Prime Minister of Belize, meanwhile, recalled that more than half of the population of his country depends on sectoral activities related to ecosystems and coral reefs. He expressed regret that Government efforts to link the health of the ocean with economic growth in Belize were little imitated at the global level. Indeed, only 8per cent of the oceans are protected and a third of fish stocks are overexploited, he stressed, estimating that protecting 30per cent of the oceans, as Belize is doing in its territorial waters, would preserve fish stocks, increase resilience and help countries cope with climate change.

The African continent also has an important role to play in ocean action, the African Union Commissioner for Agriculture said, noting that out of 55member States, 39are island or coastal nations and therefore, rich in blue resources, including mangroves and coral reefs. For this reason, the African Union post-COVID-19 recovery plan includes ocean-anchored climate solutions. Indias representative highlighted her countrys assistance to 18small island developing States and least developed countries through 59blue economy projects, while the Director of International Law in Mexicos Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed pride that her country is a member of the High-Level Panel for Sustainable Global Ocean Economy.

The Minister of Transport and Nature of Aruba, an island under the Kingdom of the Netherlands, highlighted his countrys measures to reduce marine pollution, starting with the ban in 2017 on plastic bags, and more recently, single-use plastics. He said he is considering a ban that would also hit recycled plastic. The representative of Portugal recalled that his country had just created the most important marine protected area in the Atlantic Ocean in the Madeira archipelago.

Co-chaired by Abraao Vincente, Cabo Verdes Minister for the Sea, and Espen Barth Eide, Norways Minister for Climate and Environment, the interactive dialogue was moderated by Kristian Teleki, Head of the Secretariat of the High-Level Panel for Sustainable Ocean Economy and Director of the Group of Friends of Ocean Action.

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To Reap Benefits of 'Massive' Blue Economy, Small Islands, Least Developed Coastal States Need Multidimensional Vulnerability Index That Addresses...

Safari is a Swahili word that means journey or expedition. It comes from the Arabic word safar meaning to travel. Swahili is the most common language spoken in East Africa, but the word safari didnt appear in the English language until the late 19th century, and was then usually only used when talking about hunting trips in Africa. Today, most people think of going on a safari as a game-viewing trip. For the purposes of this story, Id like to go back to its original meaning, namely exploring, and to do that, Id like to take you on a safari in Botswanas beautiful and special Okavango Panhandle.

The Okavango Panhandle

Botswanas Okavango Delta is, without a doubt, one of the greatest natural sanctuaries in the world. Surrounded by the sands of the Kalahari Desert, this vast maze of meandering channels, waterlily-filled lagoons, and lush green islands is somewhere everyone should visit at least once in their lives. The Okavango Delta was the 1,000th location to be listed as a World Heritage Site, and is also one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.

The delta is fed by the Okavango River, which flows southeast from Angola and through Namibias Zambezi Region before entering Botswana at the small village of Mohembo. Here, the delta spreads out into a strip roughly 7 miles wide; a green mass of dense papyrus and reed beds, floating islands of interwoven underwater vegetation, calm lagoons, and a myriad of twisting channels with constantly changing courses.

Look at a map of the Okavango Delta and youll notice its shaped somewhat like a frying pan. The Okavango River is channeled between two steep-sided banks along a roughly 60-mile-long handle, before it meets underlying fault lines and floods out to form the Okavango Delta. The delta represents the pan part of our analogy; and that is how the Okavango Panhandle got its name! This is not a protected reserve or national park, but there are still vast areas of unspoiled wetlands and wilderness just waiting to be explored.

So now weve got ourselves orientated, lets journey together into the Okavango Panhandle. This is not your classic safari destination; it is so much more.

Elephants spotted during game-viewing

As I said, this is not the place for a traditional safari. The Okavango Panhandle is not known for its wildlife, and big game viewing is not the main focus or really an option here. Having said that, there are plenty of crocodiles, hippos, elephants, and, my personal favorites, otters. If you are fortunate, you might even catch sight of the shy, secretive, and special swamp-dwelling Sitatunga antelope hiding in the dense reeds.

For the birdwatchers amongst you, this is a wonderful destination for novices and experts alike. Of Botswanas 616 bird species, more than 350 have been recorded in the panhandle environs, including some Okavango specialties, like the Pels fishing owl and the African skimmer.

A fish eagle along the Okavango River

The papyrus and the reeds along the channels can be thick, and can definitely give the birds an advantage when it comes to hide and seek. Exercise a little patience and you will be rewarded with some special sightings. My personal favorites are the painted-snipes and rufous-bellied herons. The tiny malachite kingfishers are always a treat to see. As we floated quietly down the channel one afternoon, motor off under the watchful eye of a magnificent fish eagle, a kingfisher kept flitting back and forth across the channel, never seeming to sit still and always taking off just as I was about to take a photo! Another spectacular sight is the vibrant-colored carmine bee-eaters that migrate, gathering to nest in the dry banks of the Okavango River when the water levels are low, and sometimes burrowing their nests as deep as 6 feet into the riverbank.

The Okavango Panhandle is one of the prime fishing destinations in Botswana. The fast-flowing, deep waters are ideal for fishing. Fishing here is catch and release, and you can try your hand at catching a diverse variety from African pike to the sleek catfish, as well as tilapia, bass, and bream. In all, 17 species of fish can be caught in the Okavango Panhandle.

Watch for the lightning-quick, olive-colored backs and silvery underbellies of tigerfish.

The area is home to one of the worlds most exciting freshwater fish, the tigerfish. Tigerfish up to 22 pounds have been caught in the northern channels. If youre after a tiger, embrace your adrenaline-fueled inner angler, cast your rod into the water, and watch for the lightning-quick, olive-colored back and silvery underbelly of your prey.

During September and October, smaller bait fish find their way into the channels of the Okavango Panhandle, causing a feeding frenzy amongst the thousands of barbel (catfish), some of whom are over 4 feet long. The barbel in turn attract the tigers and an incredible feeding frenzy ensues. This is the perfect time for the serious anglers to strike!

For those looking for a quieter fishing experience, the panhandle offers fantastic fly-fishing for the delicious Okavango bream.

Boating safari on the Okavango Panhandle

Activities in the panhandle are mainly focused on the perennial waters of the Okavango River. Boat trips, particularly during sunset, are a wonderful experience. Watch the sun go down on another beautiful day in Africa with a drink in your hand and the warm sun on your skin. Or venture out on a tranquil mokoro (dug-out canoe) at dawn or dusk. Experience this traditional method of transportation as you glide almost silently through the clear blue channels, carving a course through the waterlilies and listening to the creaks, croaks, and calls of various insects, frogs, and birds.

Hiking Tsodilo Hills

On your typical wildlife safari in Botswana, its relatively rare to come across local people and learn about their lives, but here you will see some fishing and cattle farming. A number of local communities live here, their daily lives centered on the permanent waterway of the Okavango River. Meanwhile, just 20 miles from the panhandle lie the Tsodilo Hills, Botswanas first UNESCO site of cultural significance, home to a large collection of ancient rock paintings.

The panhandle is a great base from which to visit the Tsodilo Hills. In the immense flatness of this arid landscape, four large rocks dramatically rise 1,300 feet above the ground. The largest of the rock formations is known as the Male; a little smaller is the Female; the third is the Child; and the fourth rock is sometimes referred to as an earlier wife, sometimes as another child, or even occasionally as a grandchild.

Tsodilo Hills artwork

These hills are the spiritual home of the Basarwa (the San people) and Bantu people. Spread out over 5 square miles, archaeologists have found evidence of early human life dating back as far as 100,000 years ago. The north end of the Female hill is the best sight to visit for rock art. I spent some hours here with a local Banswara guide, learning about the symbolism and ancient traditions associated with the paintings.

There is other evidence of ancient civilizations here, with artifacts including beads, carved bones, and pottery dating back 90,000 years. There is a small museum on-site and Id recommend you take a guide with you on the walking trails, like we did, to explain and interpret the paintings, and to point out some of the more inconspicuous ones.

Other destinations in this area of historical, cultural, and geological interest are the Gcwihaba Caves (Drotskys Caves) and Aha Hills. These locations are extremely remote and visited by very few people. The caves are Botswanas only network of subterranean caves and pits with incredible examples of stalactites and stalagmites. There is a 3,000-foot passageway through the caves, interlinked by an entrance at either end. The Aha Hills on the Namibian-Botswana border are smaller than Tsodilo and famed as being one of a few remaining destinations where one may still see a San Bushman trance dance.

Pro Tip: We flew to Tsodilo Hills by helicopter from nearby Nxamaseri Island Lodge and I would recommend this as a truly spectacular way to approach the site. You can drive the route, and the road is well maintained.

You can drive from Namibia to the panhandle or make the long drive from Maun (the usual jumping-off point for visiting the pan part of the panhandle), but I would really recommend flying in. The Okavango Panhandle is the perfect place to visit as an addition to your more traditional game-viewing safari, either after visiting the main part of the delta or perhaps after visiting Chobe National Park. I flew in on a six-seater Cessna plane from Kasane Airport after spending some time at the fabulous Chobe Game Lodge inside Chobe National Park.

Along the western edge of the Okavango Panhandle, there are a handful of self-drive safari and fishing camps and, on the whole, the area is more low-key and affordable than elsewhere in the delta.

Nxamaseri Island Lodge

I would recommend Nxamaseri Island Lodge as the perfect place to stay. This is a small and intimate lodge, located on a tiny private island in the permanent waters of the Okavango Panhandle. The rooms are quiet havens, elevated above the water and interconnected with raised wooden walkways. Nxamaseri Island Lodge showcases the beauty of the permanent swamps, but without doing away with the creature comforts.

My room had a secluded verandah suspended over the water, perfect for some quiet time alone. I had a spacious bathroom with seemingly endless hot water, and a sublimely comfortable bed, complete with a hot water bottle tucked into it. I felt a real part of the surrounding landscape as I lay in bed at night listening to the sound of hippos splashing and grunting in the darkness outside.

This last point is really a tip to help you make the most of your time in the Okavango Panhandle, and indeed the rest of Botswana too. Id recommend you download the Botswana Wildlife App before your trip. Renowned safari guide Grant Reed, co-founder of Letaka Safaris, has put his vast wealth of knowledge and experience into creating an easy-to-use app that allows you to quickly identify any animal, bird, fish, reptile, flower, or tree you encounter on your safari. Its the perfect companion to your Botswana travels and is available on both Android and Apple. (You can watch a quick introduction on YouTube.)

The Okavango Panhandle really is one of the worlds last remaining natural sanctuaries. Immerse yourself in the surroundings and experience the undisturbed wilderness. Come to experience the incredible natural beauty, the fantastic birdlife, the incredible fishing, and the fascinating culture and history. This is a special place and one that really deserves a visit.

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Why This Great African Destination Is The Perfect Place For A Safari - TravelAwaits